WilkesLand

Black Friday

2011-11-25T09:58:00.003-07:00

I've never been out in the real Black Friday crowds before, but last night Ashley and I were lured by Walmart's $1.96 DVD's. It was like nothing I've ever seen. Very much like the picture I posted. I've heard all the horror stories of people being trampled and getting in physical fights but our experience was nothing like that. When Ashley and I walked in the store we both turned to each other and smiled. We both love unusual situations and crowds of people. It was so much fun. There was a great mix of people in all ethnicities & colors. Everyone was so kind to each other. Everywhere you went you could hear I'm sorry, excuse me, what are you looking for, let me help. One woman noticed Ashley and I were looking for something in particular and offered the last one she had to us saying she didn't need it that much. Another couple saw I was struggling to hold stuff and offered me their cart. I don't really have the money to go out shopping again today but if I weren't so sick today I would go out there just to be with the people. I love St. George and I REALLY love people.

Evil Thunderbirds

2011-10-14T14:13:00.003-06:00

It's been a long time since I've blogged about one of Noah's hilarious adventures. I feel bad I've missed so many. Today he was heading out the door and had his hands behind his back. When I looked up at him he smiled and said "What? I got nothin'" Then he proceeded to show me his left hand while keeping his right behind his back. Then he showed me the right hand with the left behind his back. This kid is getting sneakier by the minute. So I walked behind him and spotted a butter knife. When I took it from him I asked "What were you going to do with this?" He said "I need it in case the evil Thunderbird comes then I'll slice off it's head" So I gave the knife back, took a picture, took the knife back again and promised I would watch for Thunderbirds for him and he didn't need a knife.

First Day of School!

2011-08-15T08:04:00.003-06:00

The kids went back to school today. Sage looks like she's in a JCPenney ad. Noah is still sleeping(Why didn't he sleep this late during the summer?). The house is quiet with just Rob and I shuffling around and the dog sniffing at the breakfast dishes hoping we'll leave them on the table and leave the room so he can jump on the table and eat some. I miss the kids already! We're in a carpool where I only drive once a week but I love to be the one to drop them off and pick them up. If I could afford to drive everyday I would but as it is they're even going to school in last year's (in some cases last 2 year's) school clothes. Ashley is starting her first year at SUCCESS Academy. That means she'll be going to college for half the day. I think I'm more excited about it then she is. It's going to be a great year with bright hope for the future.

Summer!

2011-07-06T11:41:00.009-06:00

Fireworks!

Noah's first sparkler

The group picture just before dark

Pioneer games at the park

It's good to see old friends

Luke and Sage made rockets

Sage is getting Noah excited for a train ride

This train is a Bloomington tradition. It's a 4 wheeler pulling

a row of buckets with wheels. The kids love it.

Ashley's return from trek. She was sick when she left

but she looked healthy and happy pushing that handcart down

from the mountain. She wants to go back.

Ashley with Ma and Pa Davis from trek. She loves them!

Last Day of School!

2011-06-03T10:13:00.004-06:00

Today is the last day of school for our charter school kids. I'm excited to have the kids home for the summer and so happy the cooler weather is hanging in there a little longer. We'll have plenty of heat in no time so I'm glad it's taking it's time. Today was a great year for the kids. Most of them had record breaking grades and I'm so proud of them for how hard they worked.

Luke and Mrs. Winder

Cole and Miss Freeberg

Sage and Miss Rammell

February Fun!

2011-03-02T11:51:00.004-07:00

I know a lot of people don't like February because it's dreary, wintry, and cold. But we live in St. George...We love February!!!

Cole got student of the month for imagination!

Noah discovered youtube thanks to me. Grrr! I really regret it.

Ashley got into Success Academy! Three cheers for free college! Hip hip....

Sage followed her tradition of making a Valentine box that looks like a dog.

Luke was so creative and thought of making his into a giant coke can. It even has the tab at the top that opens the can.

Ashley is so sweet to still play with her younger siblings.

Christmas!

2011-02-01T18:49:00.003-07:00

I hope I can find pictures to post! This Christmas was not the best we've had but when you have little ones around it's hard not to be happy anyway.

It snowed the first day the younger kids went back to school. Ashley and Noah were able to play in it but it melted before the other kids came home.

Ashley was not happy to be photographed while wearing chipmunks but she did like her pajamas.

The boys waiting to watch a traditional Christmas movie.

Testing out the toys.

Can't forget the Christmas jammies picture!

Thanksgiving!

2010-12-10T11:55:00.007-07:00

We went to Arizona for Thanksgiving this year.

Here is Cole at Grandma Ruby's where we stayed

Noah having a helping of Cheez It's at Grandma Wilkes' house where we watched the football games.

This is "the barn" at Uncle Alvin's where every meal is served from Wednesday night through Saturday morning

Most of "the crew" that take upon themselves the work of every meal

Cole is always the first in line...not one to waste time he's also checking facebook updates

It's tradition to get the chicken coop picture even if I can only get 2 kids there because the others are to busy mingling with cousins.

Luke and Sage dressed up as pilgrims for school

It's unfortunate I didn't get a picture of Ashley and her cousin Karina with the German exchange student that they held in such high esteem. Rob and Cole enjoyed defeating him in basketball.

Halloween!!!

2010-11-04T09:17:00.006-06:00

Cole Was a box...doesn't he wear it well? :)

Ashley and her friend Sarah are Pride and Prejudice Characters

Sage is a vampire. I want to say she's a sarcastic vampire because she's doing air quotes but I think it's supposed to actually be a scary hand gesture suggestive of fangs.

Luke was a Clone Trooper, he was excited we got the deluxe costume days before Halloween on a clearance sale so he didn't have to wear another nylon painted jumpsuit. He'll wear this costume around the house all year long for years.

Noah the policeman

Carving pumpkins! Sage and Luke carved theirs completely by themselves this year.

After I cleaned out Noah's pumpkin he "helped" by taking all the pumpkin innards out of the bowl I'd put them in and put them back in his pumpkin. I don't understand the tongue thing he does every time I take his picture now.

Ashley and I won tickets to Thriller! It was so fun. This is Ashley with the clown and one of the Jason guys.

Grandma Ruby was here for Halloween too. We had a lot of fun with her. I should have taken a picture!

Happy Halloween from the Wilkes kids!

2010-10-26T14:19:00.000-06:00

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Sage was baptized!

2010-10-15T10:00:00.002-06:00

It was such a great baptism. We had a lot of our closest family and friends attend but missed those that couldn't. Aliya Cazier sang with her dad and it was beautiful! Thanks to all that made it such a special day for Sage!

Grandma Hancock's House

2010-06-23T18:17:00.001-06:00

Last Day of School

2010-06-23T17:45:00.003-06:00

It's pretty obvious which kid I let take the camera to school.

Meet Jack!

2010-06-04T13:43:00.003-06:00

We got a dog! His name is Jack. He's a Yorkie- Shitzu mix. He's been such a great dog. The whole family is already completely in love with him.
Ashley and Jack

A visit with Billbeau and Sissy

Sage and Jack nap time

Easter Break!

2010-04-15T13:49:00.003-06:00

Coloring Eggs! It wasn't easy to fit Easter activities in between conference sessions. Cole was even on his way to the priesthood session with Rob so he's already in his suit.

Easter afternoon we made rice krispie treat eggs dipped in chocolate.

Spring Break!

2010-03-15T16:15:00.009-06:00

Rob's week altering for working in Salt Lake worked out perfectly so he could be home for Spring break. It rained most of the week so the kids spent a lot of time indoors just being lazy with only minimal yard time and park time.

The Girls played on the computer

Cole got my old phone as a reward for bringing up his grades so he spent a lot of Spring break texting like crazy

Finally at the end of Spring break Lane and Brianna came over to play.

Christmas

2010-03-15T16:06:00.002-06:00

This is really late because I lost my camera. Not that I tried especially hard to find it but that's my excuse. When I did find it the pictures I took at Christmas were gone so I'm posting this one I took just before Christmas. We had a great Christmas of course. Thank you for all the amazing gifts everyone! This picture was taken after we made a gingerbread house that quickly fell apart.

Spirit Week

2009-12-17T09:12:00.002-07:00

The kids have spirit week at school. One of the days was flashback day where they picked a decade and dressed in a style from that decade.

Sage: 70's, Luke: 80's, Cole: 40's (we were going for a Frank Sinatra look), Ashley 60's (specifically Penny from Hairspray)

Thanksgiving!

2009-12-08T12:17:00.005-07:00

I only took a couple of pictures at Thanksgiving because my batteries were almost dead. We had a great time! We even had some fun cousin rivalry watching the BYU/Utah game.

Sage, Vienna, & Dylan

Dalhn & Aryanna

Nan, Ashley, Jordyn, & Luke

Cole & Spencer (It was supposed to be a picture of Dave and Spencer but Cole sort of botched that)

Luke, Carson & Cole in front. Sage, Ashley, & Nichelle in back

Noah and Bronson

Spencer and Ashley peeling potatoes

Cole's Priesthood Ordination

2009-12-08T12:04:00.003-07:00

Cole is now a deacon! It's so fun watching him pass the sacrament. He and Ashley also did Baptisms for the dead and were both able to do baptisms for ancestors! What an exciting time in our lives. In the pictures are Cole with both sets of Rob's parents. Hans Wilkes, Don Riding, Labretta Wilkes and Pam Riding.

Halloween!!!!!!!!

2009-11-03T11:46:00.003-07:00

The Snow family joined us at our ward "Trunk or Treat"

School Parade
Luke

Sage

Cole and his friend Riker

Ashley and Friends

Noah looooved Trick or Treating

2009-07-11T17:13:00.001-06:00

Memorial Day

2009-07-01T22:13:00.001-06:00

Last Day of School

2009-07-01T22:04:00.002-06:00

Sage & Ms. Hall

Cole & Mrs. Abboud

Ashley's Class

Cole & His friend Riker

Luke & Mr. McCleery

Luke's Roman Day

2009-07-01T22:01:00.002-06:00

Kindergarten Graduation

2009-07-01T21:56:00.001-06:00

Here is Sage at her Kindergarten graduation. The first picture is her with her 8th grade buddy. I have to tease Rob here. He wasn't at the graduation and when he saw that picture he said in shock "Is that her teacher?!" hahaha!

Fathers Sons outing

2009-07-01T21:49:00.001-06:00

Funny kids...

2009-05-05T11:37:00.004-06:00

My kids are so funny. I decided to do a post with snippets of funny things they've said/done recently.

The other day when I was driving with Ashley in the car she was texting. Then my phone received a text so I picked it up to read it. It was from Ashley and said "stole your phone spot". I looked down and there was her phone in the cup holder where I usually keep mine.

A few days ago we were driving away from school and I caught a glance of their principal and said (sort of to myself), I wish my butt looked like Mrs. ______'s. Cole then said "now I need therapy".

At dinner we usually tell our favorite part of the day. That evening Cole had been in time out for fighting with his sister (I know he seems a little old but in this case it was effective). He was complaining for a great length of time about how he didn't deserve it. Then Luke said "let's tell our favorite part of being in time out. Cole you go first." Cole was the only one that didn't think it was funny.

Sage occasionally makes it to school in strange wardrobing flaws. For example 2 legs in one leg of a skort, or 2 dresses with the dress underneath hanging below. Of course I somehow managed not to notice until she gets home from school. Who knows what her teacher is thinking when this happens. I should have taken pictures.

As I was standing at the top of the stairs one day, Noah was at the bottom. He looked up at me, held his arms wide open and said "Jump Mommy!"

My Baby is 2!!

2009-04-21T12:21:00.002-06:00

I can't believe I don't have a baby anymore. Noah turned 2 yesterday. He got a Lightning McQueen, Mack and Chic from the movie Cars. He has his 2 McQueens in his hands at all times. He calls the new one "birthday cake McQueen" because it was on his cake. If he needs to eat he switches them to one hand and eats with one hand. Happy Birthday Noah! I love you so much!!!

Happy Birthday Babe!!!

2009-03-30T11:57:00.006-06:00

Today is Rob's birthday. It's sad because he had to go to Salt Lake, but at least I was able to see him for a few minutes before he left. I hope you have a great day sweetie! I love you!!!

Saying Goodbye...

2009-03-23T09:28:00.003-06:00

Rob's brother David passed away 2 weeks ago. He'd been struggling with a lung infection and his lungs never did recover. I'm suddenly at a loss for words. Dave was a genius and so warm and affectionate with everyone. We will miss him and look forward to seeing him again. The obituary is worded much better. I wish I had pictures of everyone who was there but we forgot our camera. Send me pictures everyone!

Beacon Open House!

2009-03-02T12:18:00.013-07:00

Rob took some pictures at the open house of their new clinic. It went very well! Thank you everyone who was able to make it!

The signs including logos etc were all designed by Rob's step dad, Don Riding.

I think this is Janet's office. She's the therapist that manages all the other therapists.

This is part of the conference room.

This is the rest of the conference room. Rob's sister Kristina is the office manager and also did all the decorating for the open house.

Rob's mom Pam provided all the light houses. The picture in the background is one Don designed and had made.

Janet's office angle 2:

I had no idea they had a play room for kids but I'm guessing that's what this is. Rob says it's a therapeutic playroom.

Half of the therapists...

Another picture designed by Don

Kristina's office

Laura's office:

Group room.

Pictures of the therapists and a ribbon from the ribbon cutting at the Sandy Chamber of Commerce.

You might be saying "Ok, it's just an office." But I'm pretty excited about it and just had to share.

Here are pictures of all the therapists (in no particular order). It's sad to me that I don't even know them.

Janet

Leni

Rosalene

Laura

Carrie

Jennifer

Jenise

Aimee

Valentine Parties!

2009-02-18T09:33:00.005-07:00

I volunteered at Sage's and Cole's classes for their Valentine parties.

This is Cole with his friend at the right of the picture and his favorite Valentine on the left. I'll leave their names out since I haven't asked their parents permission.

Passing out Valentines and getting ready for games.

This is Cole with his Valentine bucket. He's so dang funny! He also passed out Dora Valentines to his friends. Hehe!

Sage frosting a cookie

Sage and friends coloring. It's so weird seeing all these kids without uniforms on. They had a "free dress day" that day.

Sage's Class. If you look closely you can see the back of Sage's hair. Originally the 2 braids were shaped into a heart but it fell a little by this time. I decided to add an edit to list the hairblog link. Here it is: Hair Blog

Christmas!

2009-01-09T10:30:00.005-07:00

Suryveying the loot

There has to be board games

Poor Noah was sick

A sniper taking a water break

Glued to the Playstation

Someone ate something healthy?!

A Barbie Christmas. We made some gift boxes out of Card Stock and Ashley actually filled each one with gifts from Barbie to Ken, etc. and wrapped them. This whole scene was later transferred to the Barbie house. Ashley and I both have so much fun setting up Barbie stuff but she deserves the credit on creativity.

A sweet girl who doesn't ask for much and is always thrilled with what she gets.

And finally Santa at the ward party

It snowed!

2008-12-18T10:34:00.003-07:00

These were taken last night. Sage and Noah were already asleep. It snowed a few more inches after this. The kids even got a snow day today but the snow is almost melted. Our neighbors said this kind of snow comes about once every 10 years. I love St. George! Try not to look at the pictures too closely. The boys were drinking orange soda minutes before I took the picture.

Noah's Latest Thrills...

2008-12-16T09:39:00.004-07:00

Noah has found a few things that delight him but are agitating for me. To begin with: When nobody is watching him he'll pull a glass ball off the tree, take it to the tiled hallway and throw it, watching it break into many pieces. There is a glow on his face when he does this that I've seen just as I've walked in to investigate. Another thing he loves to do is throw things in the bathroom and kitchen sinks. He loves to see it go over the rim and disappear and since shoes are so conveniently placed on the floor they've become easy targets.

Thanksgiving!

2008-12-03T11:00:00.007-07:00

Some of the kids found a King Snake. My uncle was not thrilled they disturbed him and made them put him back. Yay Uncle Alvin! Adrienne was so terrified she ran to the corner of the barn. Sorry Adrienne...it still makes me giggle. I don't know the kids names' in the picture. They are some of my cousins' kids and I don't know which cousins. If any of you recognize them let me know.

We had every meal here. This is about 1/3 of the family. 1/3 wasn't in the "barn" at the time and the other 1/3 didn't come this year. Notice the disco ball hanging from the ceiling. This is for the dances we have during the reunion. They usually invite the youth from town. We don't want people marrying their cousins right? Notice the torture devices on the wall. No really it's farm equipment and cooking utensils. I think they're even still used. I washed a potato masher with a handle that was made from a tree branch. Very exciting.

I'm not going to attempt to name all the people in the pictures though the sweet lady in the rocking chair is my Grandma Hancock! I'm so lucky to have this family!

Hans spent every waking minute in the kitchen with his Dad, Mom and Aunt Lavern. Many others helped many hours but those 4 never seemed to leave. Those dutch oven yams were amazing!

Happy Birthday Luke!!!

2008-11-23T22:40:00.006-07:00

That's right ANOTHER birthday. What a great baby Luke was! I couldn't get enough of him. He's grown up into a funny, sweet, creative, entertaining 9 year old. I'm so thankful for Luke and all the wonderful things he brings to our family!

Happy Birthday Cole!!!

2008-11-11T14:04:00.006-07:00

That's right we have celebrated yet another birthday in our house. Cole is 11! What an amazing 11 years it's been with this kid. It's so fun to watch his "obsessions" grow from Blues Clues, to Batman, to Star Wars, and now sports. When Cole gets into something he puts his whole heart in it. I couldn't find my box of pictures that have all his baby pictures so this is the best I could come up with.
Happy Birthday Cole!
Here are the pictures!!!

More Halloween...

2008-11-03T10:47:00.003-07:00

This is our group of trick-or-treaters. We had more join later but I didn't get another picture.

I couldn't find Noah's costume for trick-or-treating so I improvised.

Let's play...

2008-10-28T11:41:00.005-06:00

Very appropriate to Halloween is posting about our "pet" spider. I'm not sure how long our tarantula has been around but we first noticed it just over a year ago. Yesterday I saw it on the wall close to it's house (hole). So I quickly took a picture (unfortunately with my phone). I love spiders. I've instructed our pest control company to avoid the area around the tarantula and it's doing fine so far. So here's the "game". I have a link with pictures of different species of tarantulas. Everyone take a look then post a comment about which one you think it is. If you have any ideas about whether it's a male or female I'd love to hear your opinion on that too. My guess is female based on it's width. I'm also hoping it's a female since they live 30-40 yrs. as opposed to a male's 3-6 year life span. Then after all that fun go ahead and submit a name idea. Tarantula Gallery

Costumes...

2008-10-28T09:25:00.005-06:00

Here are the rest of the kids dressed to go to the ward party Friday night. The only thing creepier than Cole's costume is the fact that Sage's unicorn looks like the dementor (Cole) sucked the life out of it.

Smurfette...

2008-10-27T11:17:00.002-06:00

Ashley decided to be Smurfette for Halloween. It's been fun coming up with the costume and I only had to sew the hat! Noah was completely mesmerized. I thought he'd be scared but he thought it was great. Ashley went to a YW costume party dressed like this and had to walk passed all the other wards youth that weren't dressed up to get there. A year ago she would have refused to even get out of the car so I'm proud of her for overcoming that fear.

Happy Birthday Ashley!!!

2008-10-21T20:42:00.005-06:00

Ashley turned 13 on the 16th! Here's how I'm thinking of it...in 2 years she'll have a learner's permit. AAAAAAHHHH!!!!! Really though, I'm so blessed to have Ashley as my daughter. We have so much fun together and I know that's a rare thing at this age. I love her so much.

Fall!!!!

2008-10-13T10:44:00.001-06:00

Fall is my favorite season. I'm so excited it's cool outside! The kids were pretty excited too. They ran right outside in their rarely used jackets to play. Including Noah. He could stay outside for hours. He loves it!

My Boyz

2008-09-19T15:04:00.002-06:00

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Flashback Friday!!!

2008-09-12T21:32:00.002-06:00

I haven't done a flashback for a long time. This picture was taken during one of many "Circus Circus" adventures in Vegas. As a child, our family would drive to Arizona for Thanksgiving. Most of the time we would stay at "Circus Circus". So this is us (The Mason kids), with the stuffed animals we won and our faces painted. We got progressively better at the games as we got older and would come home with more stuffed animals and bigger stuffed animals. The tradition of being with my family in the room afterward was fun for me but as for the casino itself and the circus act; all those did for me were produce major anxiety. I was a pretty nervous kid.

Happy Birthday Sage!

2008-09-09T13:03:00.004-06:00

Sage's birthday was on Sunday the 7th but this post took a long time to assemble since we didn't have a digital camera when Sage was a baby and I had to find and scan pictures.

Sage had a rough start...

After she was born she had to stay at Primary Children's Hospital until her lungs were strong enough. (2 wks.)

She was the most easy going baby I ever had. (9 mos.)

A first attempt at getting things herself. These days she always wants someone to get everything for her. (2 yrs)

(2 yrs.)

Sage has adored Ashley from the start. The easiest way to get her to do something is to talk about Ashley doing it. (3 yrs.)

(4 yrs.)

(5 yrs.)

6 Year Birthday Picture!

I'm so thankful to have such a sweet little girl as my daughter.

Redemption...

2008-09-01T09:30:00.004-06:00

Luke and Jacob have redeemed their masculinity. The next week when the Larrabees and Noyes' came to see us Jacob had a new cowboy costume from Grandpa Tom and Grandma Ruby so they dressed up like cowboys this time.

Jacob and Luke...

2008-08-26T09:37:00.005-06:00

Jacob and Luke loved to dress up from the time they could walk. They always have some extra thing on pretending to be an animal when they were younger and progressing to superheroes, police, firemen, military officers, detectives....you get the idea. I guess being together again sparked a dress up overload and this is what they came up with. Meet Miss Kiki (Jacob) and Miss Mary (Luke). Sorry Rob it had to go on the blog.

Visitors...

2008-08-26T09:02:00.006-06:00

I thought I would post pics of some of our visitors we've had lately. (How did I miss Wesley?)

Adrienne Macady and Andrew

Berlyn

Macady, Adrienne, and Alex

Chandler

Stephanie

Sariah and Jacob

Alexis

Chanelle

Kylie and Jordan

Church Leaders preparing us for the 2nd Coming of Christ

2008-08-19T11:41:00.003-06:00

My dad sent this video to me and I had to share...

Back to School!

2008-08-11T10:33:00.002-06:00

First Day of School!

2008-08-11T10:04:00.006-06:00

I can't believe school has started already. I guess it's just Noah and I now. I took alot of pictures so I'm just going to add a slideshow to fit in all of them.

Noah's Haircut

2008-08-11T09:51:00.004-06:00

Noah got his hair cut. I wish you could see his curls in the back on the "before" picture. He doesn't look much different in these pictures but in person he looks so much older. My baby's growing too fast. Thanks to my cousin once removed (haha) Randi! I don't know how she did it so well with all his wiggling.

End of Summer...

2008-08-11T09:35:00.005-06:00

We had several occurrences to officially end summer that I still haven't had time to blog. Nichelle came home with us. It was really fun to have her here. She fit right in with the other kids. She and Cole acted just like siblings. They would have so much fun together then in the next moment would start into some argument. I was glad she came. We had a great ward picnic. It was in Pine Valley. I love Pine Valley. One day I'm going to have a cabin there and I'll escape to the mountains at least 4 weeks of the summer. Alex and Adrienne came to stay. He was here on his birthday so we had a barbecue with the Rainey's and all their family (I forgot to take pictures!). And for one last hurrah before school started I spoke in sacrament, which I ended up loving (who would've thought I could actually enjoy something like that).

Here are some Random pictures to go along with these activities.

Salt Lake Trip! (Stephanie's House)

2008-07-29T11:54:00.004-06:00

Time to get wet!

Teens in their natural habitat. We did eventually get Ashley and Kasey to do something adventurous and it only took 2 days of cajoling.

Sage and Kane played so well together.

Asher, Cole, and Luke didn't sit in front of a game system the whole time but I'm sure they would have been happy to do so.

Salt Lake Trip! (Aunt Teenie's House)

2008-07-29T11:51:00.004-06:00

Ashley, Sage, and Luke were all pretending to be animals. When I took the picture I don't think Ashley thought about the possibilities of my blogging it.

Salt Lake Trip! ( Nan's House)

2008-07-29T11:39:00.005-06:00

Nan's House...

This is Ashley participating whole heartedly

Sage was enchanted when Aubree said she had the same hair-do. She was awestruck by Aubree the rest of the day.

Grandpa Don is so fun to climb on and Noah discovered this almost immediately.

Nan always throws great parties!

Fun idea from Betsy!

2008-07-29T10:16:00.002-06:00

I tend to steal ideas from other blogs. Finally here is one you're supposed to steal:

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you.

Crazy Climber...

2008-07-14T13:19:00.003-06:00

You can't turn your back on Noah. He just wants to be up higher and higher and see where he can fit his little body. This is how I found him Saturday. The picture's not great because I couldn't exactly leave him there to grab the camera so I just used my phone. The desk wasn't that messy when he got there. He sort of got a hold of things and tossed them around.

I've been tagged by Adrienne!

2008-07-13T16:06:00.003-06:00

How to play this game of tag.
Post these rules on your blog:List 3 joys, 3 fears, 3 goals, 3 current obsessions/collections, 3 random surprising facts about yourself. Tag 5 people at the end of your post by leaving their names. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

3 Joys
1-my whole family laughing at something together. 2-rain storms 3-my cell phone (this sounds shallow at first glance so here is my reason: I would die without that connection to my friends and family)

3 Fears
1-Losing my husband 2-losing a child 3-EMP (look it up it can happen, yikes!)

3 Goals
1-getting a grip on scouts (I'm actually getting close). 2-losing weight (boring I know) 3-Getting my real estate income to exceed my real estate dues.

3 Current obsessions/collections
1- Trying to convince others to blog. 2- donating plasma (I get all that extra reading time and $200 a month. Woo hoo!) 3-www.thedailyplate.com

3 Random or Surprising facts about myself
(these might be repetitions from my 100 list)
1-I've never liked swimming even though I'm a really good swimmer. 2- During the sacrament I always stress if I think a tray is going to reach the end before a deacon gets there to retrieve it. 3- I lost half my hair after Noah was born (now I have just the right amount instead of looking like sasquatch).
I now tag: Everyone that wants to(Abi, Stephanie F., Stephanie T., Betsy, Anya, Carol, Heidi, Trina, Wendy)

In over my head...

2008-07-11T12:54:00.007-06:00

I'm the first counselor in the primary presidency. Normally the second counselor is in charge of the cub scout program but the primary president decided to place me over cub scouts because I have a "vested interest" (i.e. I have 2 sons that are cub scouts). I could handle den leader easily but right now I feel overwhelmed. I went to Roundtable last night and as the woman teaching the class for committee chairs explained training necessities and my responsibility in it all I nearly burst into tears of frustration. It probably wouldn't be as hard but our ward has to take 3 scout callings and combine them into one and that's me. I'm the pack training leader, the committee chair, and the presidency representative. I do like to be busy though so I think I'll suck it up, dive into some internet research and try to get a handle on this baffling culture that is the scouting program.

Luke's pictures...

2008-07-02T20:15:00.003-06:00

Luke loves to take pictures of himself. Some of them turn out pretty funny. They always turn out to be a surprise I find on the camera since I'm never around when he does it. I thought I would post the latest.

Our Anniversary!

2008-06-30T08:30:00.003-06:00

I copied this idea from another blog and would love to give them credit but I can't remember which one so if you're reading this and you've done this same thing then it was probably you. I'm listing what happened in each of the 14 years Rob and I have been together. Happy anniversary Rob! I love you more every day.

Year#:
1. We lived downtown Salt Lake. Rob was a Realtor and I worked for Ming Intl. We walked all over downtown for fun and at night we would lay in bed and listen to various homeless people arguing. It was very entertaining.

2. Ashley was born! Rob worked for a juvenile detention center.

3. Rob decided to go back to school. We moved to Cedar City where Rob attended SUU.

4. Cole was born! Rob finished undergrad .

5. We moved to Virginia so Rob could attend University of Richmond Law School. I started working for Target.

6. Luke was born! We moved to California where Rob was offered a scholarship and Western State University Law School.

7. We continued through law school and stayed in Fullerton, CA for 2 years. I especially loved serving as primary presidency. What a great ward that was!

8. We moved to Sandy, UT. Rob transferred to U. of U. Law School. We had so much fun living by family!

9. Sage was born! In order to graduate Rob spent 3 months back in California finishing a class the U didn't offer.

10. Rob graduated law school! We moved back to California for a job offer. I started working for Target again. California was just not working this time.

11. We moved to St. George. I got my real estate license and Rob did mortgages. We moved from a rented townhouse and bought a house in Bloomington.

12. We started sending the kids to a charter school. It's alot more driving but definitely worth it. The real estate market was great and we had never been happier. Rob was called to Elder's quorum presidency. I was called to primary presidency. Having responsibilities has always made us happy.

13. Noah was born! The market crashed. Rob started working on starting a new business while still doing mortgages.

14. We've still never been happier. St. George is definitely where we belong.

That's 14 years of marital bliss! Okay so life isn't always perfect but when you have such a great spouse by your side it feels pretty perfect. I couldn't ask for more!

"There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage."

Martin Luther

Ashley's Back!

2008-06-28T12:50:00.002-06:00

Ashley's home from girls camp. I survived! She went to Arizona for a week and stayed with my mom for a few days and at Rob's Dad's for a few days. That was easier though because I talked to her every day. She took her cell phone to camp but I knew she wouldn't have service up in the mountains. It's so nice to have her back.

Flashback Friday...

2008-06-27T14:22:00.003-06:00

This Flashback Friday is a story I remembered the other day. When we were living in California a man came to the door. He handed me an envelope and said "I saw your daughter put this in the middle of the street. I thought you might want to see it." I thanked him and he left. Inside the envelope was some change (less than a dollar) and a note Ashley wrote that read "I wish I could have a real witch." She was obsessed with the movie "Hocus Pocus" and apparently thought a witch was something you could wish for/buy. Ashley is going to die of embarrassment when she sees this post! This picture is the only one I have handy from that time period.

Arizona Trip....

2008-06-24T10:00:00.008-06:00

Visiting Great Grandma Hancock.

There's not many animals left on Grandma's Farm. Especially since they're building a new freeway behind her house. So we had to take a picture by the chickens. I love the chickens.

Noah and his cousin Brooke.

Rob's brother Hans was going to cut the boys hair. He held up the razor to show me which blade he was going to use and said is this okay? I thought he was just asking if it was okay to cut his hair and said "Yeah go ahead". Apparently he was showing me that he was just going to shave it. We were all shocked at first but Cole loves it, especially with all the attention he gets. The "Grandpa" is my nephew, Wyatt. His Dad started out by just shaving the top of his hair, but later shaved it all. It was funny!

Father's Day....

2008-06-24T09:56:00.004-06:00

World's Greatest Dad!!!

Flashback Friday (the 13th!)....

2008-06-13T18:58:00.004-06:00

This Flashback Friday is all about Rob. I got his mom to send me a bunch of pictures. I'll just post a few for now and save others for future flashbacks. The other little boy in most of the pictures is Rob's older brother Dave.

Our Robin...

2008-06-09T14:17:00.004-06:00

Yesterday I was reading at the table and noticed a robin hopping around grabbing insects (yay Robin!). Then it would hop over to a baby that was on the ground and feed it. I was worried that maybe the baby should go back into a nest but after looking it up on the internet I learned that they leave the nest at this point (fledgling) but still can't quite fly. The parents still feed it on the ground. I told the kids to stay in the front yard and leave the bird alone. Meanwhile I've been leaving grapes and raisins on the patio for the parents. I go out once in a while to make sure he's still okay. He camouflages very well in our grass and half the time I walk right past him. Earlier today I went out to look for him and thought I found him dead. I nearly burst into tears right then when I turned and saw him sitting in a tiny little lump behind me. It turns out I found his sibling. It looks like another bird killed it but not a predatory bird since they didn't eat it. So sad. I hope our little guy makes it. There are foxes, skunks, coyotes, snakes, and lizards everywhere. Not to mention domestic cats. Our backyard is a zoo.

Little Lemur...

2008-05-30T09:31:00.005-06:00

Noah has always loved playing with hair even since he was in utero. He plays with his own and anybody's he can get, especially when he's tired. Lately when I pick him up his favorite thing is to plunge his arms into my hair as far as he can get them. He only does this when my hair is down, otherwise he'll just grab my ponytail. I love it! It reminds me of the baby Lemurs I watch on the show "Lemur Kingdom". The more fur their mom has the better they thrive because they can hold on better.

School's Out!

2008-05-30T09:16:00.004-06:00

I sent the camera to school with Ashley on the last day. It's always fun to get it back and see what she got. I'll just post a few of the pictures she took.

Mother's Day...

2008-05-12T14:50:00.005-06:00

I had a great Mother's Day. On Saturday Rob cleaned the garage, mowed the lawn, and put up the hand rail. It was a rare Saturday because since he's been in Elders' Quorum presidency he's always helping other people in the ward with projects. I can't believe what a difference the clean garage made in having a great Mother's Day. Then Sunday morning Rob made me an egg mcmuffin, cinnamon raisin toast and hot chocolate. When we got home from church the kids gave me so many sweet presents. Most of them were things they made but they also bought a couple of little things at the garage sale next door on Saturday. The neighbors loved it! When I went to bed I found a card from Rob on my pillow. He always knows just what to say in his cards. So it was a great day.

Flashback Friday...

2008-05-09T22:18:00.004-06:00

Here's the background info on this picture. This is Rob on his mission in Taiwan. Some of you may have noticed the slant of light above his head. When the Taiwan people saw this they were awestruck and passed the picture around to as many people as they could. Maybe it got some extra converts. I didn't ask Rob about that. What I love about the picture (halo or no) is that it's classic Rob. He's always singing something and with that same look on his face. It's one of my favorite things about him but it also works against me when I'm trying to be mad at him.

Princess Party!

2008-05-08T18:01:00.004-06:00

Sage went to a birthday party a couple of weeks ago. They were supposed to dress up like princesses. It's really nice to have Ashley around for just such an occasion. Ashley dressed Sage, did her hair, and even make-up and accessories. This is no small feat since Sage would much rather dress up as a puppy but it was sweet. They sent us these pictures in the thank you card which I thought was a great idea. My publisher collaged the pics for me so one of them is really covered but you get the idea.

Flashback Friday...

2008-05-02T21:07:00.003-06:00

"The Mason Kids" I'm guessing the date is 1978. I'll post our actual names with our childhood name/nicknames in parenthesis. It just seems right to post the childhood names since we're so young in this picture. Morina (Lark) holding Alex (Lex), Chardell (Charie, Charlie), Candra (Candy), Rick (Richie). The patch on Alex's clothes says "Junior CB operator". So cute. I can't imagine having that many kids that are all so young.

Concerned Teacher...

2008-04-30T13:05:00.003-06:00

Luke's teacher tracked me down when I was picking up the kids yesterday. She mentioned she was a little concerned and there's something she thought I should know. She said she thinks Luke is 8 going on 13 because he seems fascinated with the opposite sex lately and yesterday he drew a picture of a "super bra". I had a hard time not giggling at this point but I stifled it. I apologized to the teacher and told her I would talk to him about it. I don't think what he drew was such a big deal but I did tell Luke that school isn't the place for anything like that and not to draw underwear anywhere. I don't know maybe I'm making nothing out of something that could be more serious? Feel free to express your opinions. I'm difficult if not impossible to offend.

Picture Overload...

2008-04-29T08:52:00.004-06:00

I love outdoor pictures so I had to throw these in. Sage is going through a stage where it's so hard to get a decent picture of her. She thinks the weirder the face the better so it was hard to find a few where she was looking somewhat normal. I should do a post of all her weird faces.

Fathers & Sons Outing!

2008-04-28T12:10:00.006-06:00

Yes that's right,someone finally got Rob into a tent in the mountains. I think it's been at least 14 years since that's happened. They all complained of a bad night's sleep but otherwise I think they had a lot of fun. I wish Rob would have had someone take a picture of them all together but I'm just thankful he took pictures. The 2 boys standing between Cole and Luke are Aaron and Rebecca Larson's sons, Stephen and Thomas.

Noah's 1st Birthday!!!

2008-04-22T18:46:00.005-06:00

The whole family was so excited for Noah's birthday. We didn't do much as far as a party but everyone said "happy birthday" to him so often that he started saying it at the end of the day. In the pictures we took he doesn't look very happy. But it had been a long day by the time we got to the cake and everything. I also took some videos that I'll try to add later.

Flashback Friday...

2008-04-18T12:22:00.005-06:00

I found this while I was clearing out a storage area today. I thought it would make a good Flashback Friday picture. This is Ashley on her Baptism day. The date is November 2003. We lived in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA.

Funny things they say...

2008-04-08T17:23:00.005-06:00

I guess with a preschooler around you could post 50 of these a week. So here's another one. I was taking Sage to preschool yesterday. I was the mom helper so instead of dropping her off at the front door I parked and was taking her to the side door. Just before walking in Sage said "Why are we going in this door?" I said "Because I'm staying with you today to help." She said "But I don't think you'll fit through this door." It was just a standard size door. Haha! I would hope she just thinks I'm really tall but I doubt it.

General Conference...

2008-04-06T16:11:00.003-06:00

Wow. I'm so thankful to be a part of the church today. What a great conference. Each General Conference gets better and better. It can't just be me. President Monson had me laughing one sentence and crying the next. I love him and I'm so glad to have him as our prophet. I loved so many talks but I specifically want to comment on M. Russell Ballard's talk. He spoke about living in the moment when you have children. I've been so blessed with the ability to do this. I remember as a child adults telling me to enjoy being a child because it passes quickly. I took that advice to heart and tried to cherish each moment. As an adult with young children I had elders tell me the same thing: "Enjoy them while they're young. It passes so quickly." I have so many moments when I watch them and try to absorb every second of their life. I know I don't always do it but I definitely try. And one day when they're gone I'll try to do the same with my grandchildren. This life is definitely short and these spirits we've been given are such an amazing gift. I also know that associating with other children besides our own blesses our lives immensely. They are all so different and being a part of their lives can only add to ours. Okay I'm really laying it on thick but what can you expect when I listened to the prophet only 10 minutes ago?

Flashback Friday (The Wedding)...

2008-04-04T10:42:00.015-06:00

I thought these would be fun. The date is June 30th 1994. The first picture is of the wedding party. Have you ever seen so many beautiful bride's maids in one wedding? The second is Rob with all the bride's maids. Notice Stephanie in this one. I want to put a little dialog bubble that says "You want me to do what? I don't think so." Haha. The last one is Rob and I. I look like I have a black eye the way the picture scanned but Rob looks so hot in this picture I had to add it anyway.

This is Sub Par...

2008-04-03T12:28:00.008-06:00

I have to stop watching "What Not to Wear". If I had a lot of money to spend on a new wardrobe it would be different but as of today my wardrobe consists of 1. a few cute things that were in style 10 years ago when I bought them but I can't fit in to save my life. 2. A couple of maternity items that I decided in desperation could pass as fat lady clothes. 3. Clothes rejected by others that I took because...hey they're free. 4. And finally Rob's favorite, a couple of his old dress shirts that have holes or something else wrong with them. The title of this post by the way is from "The Family Man". If you haven't seen the movie just believe me when I say it fits the subject matter.

Someone noticed!

2008-04-01T14:08:00.004-06:00

Today Sage has been following me around so she could tell me different stories or ask for things she might need. About 4 hours into our day she said "Mom why are you always doing jobs?" It's so nice someone finally noticed that I'm constantly working. It makes the work a lot easier when you know it's not being taken for granted.

Two "out there" comments....

2008-03-25T18:32:00.003-06:00

Last night Rob took the kids to the dollar movie for family home evening. When they got back Ashley announced to me that she was going to be "normal". She said "I'm not going to collect penguins or sheep anymore and I'm not going to be hyper or annoying." (I admit I was sad at this announcement). Then she added "Oh and I like horses now." I have no idea where this all came from. She hasn't done much different today except wearing a little make-up when, before today, she never did. Rob hypothesized that maybe it was because the kids sitting next to her in the movie were really obnoxious, but who knows.

The next comment came from Luke. He came up to me today and asked "When am I old enough to say crap?" Haha. I love kids.

Easter...

2008-03-23T20:50:00.007-06:00

Just wanted to post some Easter pictures. On Saturday we went to the Bloomington Easter egg hunt then went home and colored eggs. On Sunday we went to church. Dean, Kristina, Spencer, and Carson came to church with us then came to dinner after. It was nice. I should explain why Luke looks so weird. He claimed to be freezing though it was 60+ degrees. Ashley and Noah are noticeably absent because they are too young and too old to participate in the hunts.

She speaks!

2008-03-23T20:41:00.004-06:00

Ashley gave her first talk in sacrament meeting today. She did an amazing job! I'm so proud of her. I was surprised at how relaxed she was about the whole thing. Maybe she just hid it well but she only seemed a little nervous.

My own "Idol" Look-Alike...

2008-03-19T14:33:00.003-06:00

It's true. Noah's naturally hip. I don't know who watches American Idol. I'm personally addicted. There's a contestant in the top 12 (technically 11 and as of tonight it will be 10) who's name is David Cook. The first time I saw him try out I said "Hey he has Noah's hair!" That's it, right down to the tuft sticking up in the back. I finally decided I needed a picture comparison for the blog so here it is. They usually look even more similar but I didn't want to look through David Cook pictures all day.

Flashback Friday...

2008-03-14T11:16:00.010-06:00

I'm posting 2 pictures this week for Flashback Friday. The first picture I'm posting because I happened to be talking to Stephanie when she was choosing her flashback picture. She told me which one she chose and I have the same one of me so I thought it would be fun if we both posted them. This is from 9th grade Indian Hills when we first became friends. Notice the massive blue satin bow on the back of my head. And what did I match it to....? The logo on my shirt. Very sad.
The second picture is a baby picture of me at 6 months old that I thought would be fun to throw in.

The Great Living Room Takeover...

2008-03-14T10:47:00.004-06:00

Ashley had a sleepover last night and they made a fort in the living room. It's not the first time they've done this but I wanted to blog it for future viewing. Rob hates the fort occurrences so it's a good thing he was out of town for this especially messy one.

Chardell's 100

2008-03-09T00:20:00.004-07:00

1. My first name (Lara) resulted from my Dad's adoration of the character in Dr. Schivago.
2. I love to run but haven't been able to do so in 8 years.
3. I used to have very thick hair but prefer my new thinner version.
4. I also preferred my thinner body but that's a distant memory.
5. I read all the way through the Book of Mormon during Pres. Hinckley's challenge. I tried to do the same thing with the Bible and just couldn't make it. I'm back to the Book of Mormon now.
6. I remember the phone numbers and birthdays of my friends from elementary school.
7. When we got married my husband was 29 and I was 18.
8. Ninety percent of the time my house looks like a natural disaster hit it.
9. I've baked bread every Saturday for the last 6 weeks.
10. My highest priority educational goal is to speak Spanish fluently.
11. I never thought I would have 5 kids.
12. Some of my kids inherited mine and Rob's sense of humor. Therefore it's hard to be mad when Ashley convinces me she saw a homeless man sleeping in the backyard and I believe her and freak out.
13. My 12 year old daughter is my best friend.
14. I drink hot chocolate when it's 110 degrees outside.
15. I love dogs but won't get one because my husband is too paranoid about everything involving owning a dog. It's just not worth it.
16. I cry easily, which entails tears about once a week.
17. In my opinion, I am NOT a "pretty" crier.
18. I don't like watching movies multiple times.
19. I'd much rather read a book than watch a movie.
20. I've been in the primary presidency twice but have never taught a primary class.
21. I've always wanted to learn sign language.
22. Reading my ebay feedback makes me feel better about myself.
23. I've been pulled over 4 times but have never had a ticket (I've never tried to talk them out of giving me a ticket. The "force" must be strong with me.).
24. I'm still afraid of the dark.
25. I watched soap operas when I was on bed rest with my second baby. As a result that baby is named after a soap opera character.
26. I'm torn whether or not to have cosmetic surgery some day.
27. I can touch my tongue to my nose.
28. Most of the foods I despised as a kid are now my favorite foods.
29. I was born on my Grandma's birthday.
30. I believe we could all read each other's minds if we could remember how.
31. I believe in life on other planets.
32. I only let my kids watch Christmas movies Between Nov. 1st and Dec. 31st.
33. I hate the desert but I've never been happier living anywhere else.
34. I'm obsessed with worry over what other people think of me. (you wouldn't think so if you saw me during my occasional early morning jaunt to Wal-Mart).
35. I never really liked kids until I had my own. Now I love all kids.
36. It's pretty difficult to offend me.
37. I'm thankful I've stayed friends with so many people despite my many moves. But more importantly I'm thankful they stayed friends with me.
38. I wish David Archuleta could be my son-in-law some day. I should have had them sign a betrothal agreement of some kind when I was his mom's visiting teacher. (I have to embarrass Ashley somewhere in here right?).
39. I make derogatory comments about myself that make people laugh but then feel uncomfortable for laughing.
40. I miss camping but not enough to force Rob out of his comfort zone to do it.
41. My favorite T.V. show is Bones with House and The Office tied for second.
42. I used to be more spiritual than my husband but now he has far surpassed me (I always knew he would).
43. As a kid I would make it to the finals in the spelling bee but then purposely spell a word wrong before it got to the point where I would have to stand up in front of a huge group of people. (this looks like a copy from Abi's 100 but I swear it was in here before I read hers).
44. I despise doing dishes but I go nuts when someone else in the family does them and doesn't do them like I do.
45. Halloween is my favorite holiday (this one I completely copied already knowing it was on Betsy's list).
46. I'm one of those few people who really love their mother-in-law.
47. I actually enjoy talking to myself.
48. I have a really bad habit of calling people in other cars names like idiot and moron.
49. I always feel really guilty afterward even though they couldn't hear me.
50. I tend to be insecure at times (see 43).
51. I love having babies but despise being pregnant.
52. I prefer candy bars frozen.
53. As a kid I had a horse collection. One horse broke multiple times and I still took it on vacations with me without its legs.
54. In Middle School I was in a singing group that performed at Lagoon and various gatherings of elderly people. (I'm told Stephanie has a video of my horrific solo I had to do when Camille was sick).
55. My testimony can be overwhelming. I don't have the grace to contain the things I feel and therefore turn into a blubbering freak so often.
56. I've never broken a bone....oh wait... can't use that one anymore.
57. Once when working at Target someone asked if anyone knew sign language that could help a deaf customer. I said I did. Then I proceeded to annoy the poor customer when they realized I could only do the alphabet. They finally just took out paper and wrote down what they wanted.
58. I've only been skiing once and vowed then and there never to do it again.
59. I'm very good at crocheting and can crochet any pattern I'm given.
60. I love to multi-task. I have to read or work on the computer while eating lunch.
61. I don't consider hell a swear word but choose not to use it at church just in case.
62. I've never liked swimming. The act of swimming itself isn't bad. I just don't like sitting around in a swimsuit waiting to dry.
63. I've always wanted to live in the pacific northwest but not enough to move there without a really good reason.
64. I could be happy with days and days of rain.
65. My first CD was a Barry Gibb and Barbra Streisand CD I inadvertently stole from my Dad (sorry Dad). I didn't know who they were at the time I just knew I loved the cheesy duets.
66. Number 65 is my most embarrassing item so far.
67. I love those dreams where you dream your falling and wake up, which is a little weird because I'm afraid of heights.
68. I hate it when my kids sleep over at someones house. I miss them every second they're gone.
69. I have a high tolerance for pain. I probably developed it from hiding pain from my mom so I wouldn't have to go to the doctor.
70. I love the taste and smell of NyQuil (the green one of course, the red/orange one is nasty).
71. I rarely take NyQuil because it worries me a little that I like it so much.
72. I'm the descendant of an illegitimate son of the King of England (his mother was a maid).
73. I'm also some part Native American (or is the preferred term "American Indian" now?)
74. Eating meat off the bone makes me gag (some "Indian" I would have made).
75. I find self help books nearly impossible to get through without being bored out of my mind.
76. I could watch animal shows all day.
77. I'm way over thinking this list.
78. I've always wanted to be able to sing well. Okay not just well but great.
79. When I lived by my sister we loved reading so much we would buy a bunch of snacks and have a read-a-thon at one of our houses.
80. I wish I still had time for read-a-thons but I'll have to settle for a few minutes a day.
81. I volunteered at my daughter's school when they dissected squids because all the other mom's were too squeamish.
82. I'm addicted to text messaging and have now converted my mom.
83. I hate the way I talk. I think I sound like Sylvester the cat.
84. I miss McDonald's Southwest salad.
85. I'm getting desperate for things to add to this list and it's pretty obvious.
86. I started this list on February 23.
87. I only had one Barbie as a kid. My sister chewed her face.
88. When I had my own daughter I more than made up for it by buying Barbie's on a regular basis.
89. I just remembered I have sharing time tomorrow so I can't finish this list tonight!!!
90. I trust strangers almost to a fault.
91. I used to think vehicular homicide meant a really vicious murder. I didn't put together the vehicle part until about 5 years ago. (I can't believe I just admitted that to so many people).
92. I talk in my sleep.
93. It freaks me out when my kids talk in their sleep.
94. I have to send Rob in to comfort Luke when he wakes up. The things Luke sees and dreams scare me too much and then we're both scared and feeding off each other's fear.
95. I don't go on trips without my husband. The only time I have is for both of my Grandpas' funerals.
96. When I'm in the mountains I feel elation, contentment, confidence, and belonging.
97. I've never liked Saturdays.
98. Sunday has recently become my favorite day.
99. I don't like change but adjust well to it anyway.
100. Some of my happiest moments have been seeing evidence of how much my kids love each other.

Flashback Friday

2008-03-07T19:47:00.004-07:00

Here is my first flashback picture. I couldn't find my high school dance pictures. I really wanted to add the one of Abi and I at prom, especially after she mentioned prom in her 100 list (maybe next week). In this picture I think Stephanie is giving me one of those quiz things we always took at that age. I'm not sure but that's what it looks like. That also must have been one of those days when I braided her hair. I don't know who took the picture but it was probably Abi or Carrie. I'm appalled that I was using my scriptures as a coaster. At least they appear used. So it can't be all bad right?

Rebound...

2008-03-06T12:45:00.002-07:00

Noah LOVES to play with any kind of ball. His favorites are the small basketballs Cole uses for his indoor hoop because they're the perfect size for him. He would play ball all day if he could but there isn't always a willing participant to throw the ball back to him. Yesterday he figured out if he throws the ball at furniture or the wall it will bounce off and roll back. Now that's what he does if there isn't the option of another person. What a smart baby!

Techie Kid...

2008-03-04T14:20:00.002-07:00

Yesterday Sage asked me which hand was her left and which was her right. I told her which was which and was trying to figure out the best trick to teach her to help her remember. Then she said, "Oh my right hand is the one that uses the mouse". It's funny she associated it with using a mouse instead of writing, drawing, or eating. Hmmmm, wonder what she does more often?

Empathy for Mom...

2008-03-01T09:34:00.003-07:00

Rob was in Vegas last night so I was home alone. I was talking to my mom on the phone and said "That's weird. My motion light in the front yard just went on." It didn't even warrant mentioning though because it goes on all the time. But it was enough to get my mom all worried about me being here alone. When I hung up I shook my head thinking it was so silly for my mom to worry. Then I started obsessing about Ashley babysitting 2 doors away from my house. I didn't know a number where I could reach her because the family only uses cell phones and I didn't know which one (if any) they had left with her. I pictured her there terrified not knowing what to do and finally walked over to assess the situation. Ashley answered the door with a look on her face that said "What are you doing here? Are you insane?" And I immediately came to the conclusion my mom isn't silly at all. In fact she's less paranoid than I am because my daughter was only 2 doors away and perfectly fine. Mom- No break ins last night. We're all fine. I love you!

My Sister

2008-02-29T13:07:00.002-07:00

I can't let today go by without posting about my sister. Today is the first anniversary of Morina's death. It's been four years but since she died on leap year this is the first time the actual date of her death has passed. I miss her every day. There are still times that something will happen and I'll think "I need to call Morina and tell her" before I remember that I can't call her. I used to call her several times a day. It was so easy to make her laugh. She's one of the most giving people I've ever known. Anyway I'm not trying to write a second eulogy. I just wanted to put something in print about today. I love you Morina!!!

The epitome of sleep deprivation

2008-02-29T10:07:00.006-07:00

Noah's teething pain is at an all time high. He woke up at midnight in a lot of pain and wouldn't nurse. He didn't want to open his mouth at all. It was so sad to see him hurting so bad. Nothing helped. We did Tylenol, Motrin, Orajel. I had to pry his mouth open to get all of them past his gums. After Rob gave up and went to bed I turned off all the lights and T.V. and filled a bottle with cold milk. He didn't drink the bottle but liked chewing the cold nipple and letting it drip in his throat. Then he finally dozed off at 3:00. I thought he would be exhausted and sleep late this morning but he woke up at 6:00 and was finally able to nurse. He's still in a lot of pain and it's going to be a long day. Rob is at the store right now buying those Hyland's Teething Tablets. We'll see if that helps.