my life

New Blog Address

2008-02-01T13:42:00.000-08:00

I'm over Here now. Be sure to bookmark me.
my regular blog address: www.heatherabbott.typepad.com/my_life/
my photo a day blog address: www.heatherabbott.typepad.com/capturing_the_everyday/

Switched Over

2008-01-27T15:32:00.000-08:00

I switched my photo a day blog over to typepad. I liked the layout better and I was already paying for a subscription. I transferred the month of January over and linked the new address in my sidebar.

I am in the process of making a blurb book for this blog. I am so excited about that. When the images were being "slurped" it made me so happy to see them. I cannot wait for the final book. SO......I will be moving this blog over to typepad as well. When everything is set up, I'll post a link so you can bookmark me.

Happy List

2008-01-23T18:55:00.000-08:00

Happy, happy joy joy.

We had another round of playgoup.

The kids had fun playing outside, it was nice today.

Kade and Parker didn't want a picture.

I finally finished Eclipse. I LOVE that series.

Cannot wait for the next book.

need a new read....any ideas?

We are going to take the kids to Disneyland this next week.

We are hoping that they are all well before then.

Watching the weather in CA. Hoping it doesn't rain.

Planning some trips for this year.

Family reunion in Washington in June.

We decided it would be best to fly.

The kids are way excited for their first plane ride.

I am so excited we don't have to be stuck in a car for two days up and two days back.

Certainly makes it worth it.

Not So Good Things From the Week

2008-01-21T20:27:00.000-08:00

I found Lauren downstairs on Sunday in the office at Poppa and Grammie's playing Webkinz. She had a couple of sidekicks. We have computer addicted children. After reading Chanel's sweet comment on the last post. I have been thinking about my little life. And I suppose that it sounds wonderful from what is stated in this blog. Generally I only include the happy, little snippets.

Just to clear things up......it's not always great.

For example in the last couple of days I have:

Gotten a jury summons for the second time in three months. Apparently they just keep rotating your name into the mix until you HAVE to show up. Uggh!
Cleaned a few poopy diaper messes one of which got all over the slide outside. Sick!
Listened and listened some more to the griping of an 9 year old who actually acts much like a 13-14 year old. Who NEEDS a cell phone and her own room and blah, blah, blah.
Dealt with a 3 year old who thinks that he runs the place. In between telling me that I am "the meanest girl ever!"
Tried and tried again to get my kids to go to bed when I put them to bed not 2-3 hours later.
Sat in the middle of a messy house and dealt with it.
Waded through mounds of clean laundry to find things for everyone to wear.
Rode in the dirtiest car EVER because kids never take their things inside. Kyle is the WORST, he leaves his socks in there until there are no more clean ones. Drives me insane.
Refereed one too many fights.
Made many dinners that no one would eat or even try.
Told my three year old that it is not nice to pick your nose, eat your boogies, or to call people stupid.
Pulled Brandon down off of the counter just to repeat 5-10 seconds later the whole time I am making dinner or doing anything in the kitchen.
Had my babysitter cancel on me when its been ages since we've gone out.
Dealt with Kyle throwing a ginormous fit in the car because he left his toy from the dentist and wanted us to all go back in to get it.
Went to bed way too late because I was enjoying the PEACE that I can never seem to get enough of when everyone is awake.

It is a balance of the bad with the good that makes our lives sweet. Chanel is right, I do enjoy my life and my family. I wouldn't trade them or the crazy things they do that drive me batty for anything. I am happy to have this place to record our lives and be able to look back and smile. Because really, when you look back, don't you always remember the good times anyway? I do.

Curtains

2008-01-17T23:32:00.000-08:00

Did some sewing this afternoon while Brandon was napping and Kade was at playgroup.

I finished one curtain panel to go over the slider.

It felt good to accomplish something.

I'll post pictures when it's d o n e!

I've been

2008-01-15T14:47:00.002-08:00

listening to Kade say "Play _______ with me." Ever since the kids left for school. The line can be filled with (trains, trucks, basketball, outside, in the sandbox) You get the idea.

thinking that I can't keep up with things in the house that need to be kept up on when I am constantly playing with him.

realizing that the house doesn't really matter.....and letting it go.

frustrated with the older kids and the time in the afternoon after school. It is busy and chaotic and I feel like sometimes they don't always get what they need. Trying to give them what they need.

focusing on a new plan/schedule/rewards/punishment system. The kids want allowance. We haven't been good about that. I think that they need to work and learn about money and managing it and saving it and how to wisely spend it. So......we are opening savings accounts and attempting another system. Hope it works.

so happy that the hermit crab cage was cleaned this weekend, and not by me. Those poor, little creatures did not know how to act in a clean environment with fresh food and water. The kids have resolved to take better care of them. And they are excited again about watching them eventually move homes.

doing endless loads of laundry and loving the smell of the dryer as I'm outside playing with Kade (:

Concentrating on getting my photo assignment done. I always stress about it, but it is the process, and I am enjoying that.

Thinking about getting some sewing done and balancing my time in the evenings. I spend way to much time on the computer.

I Love This Girl

2008-01-12T15:47:00.000-08:00

She is getting really irritated with being my "model"

She is starting to barter.

Her time for something or no deal.
Gotta love that she has some smarts.

She didn't like this one.

But it fits the composition I'm trying to achieve.

Did I mention I love her?

Today was a clean and declutter day.

I LOVE those days.

Where many black bags are filled and thrown out.

Feels good.

Sad thing is, there are still so many little areas that need that kind of attention.

Little Bits

2008-01-10T18:54:00.000-08:00

After preschool and playgroup yesterday (5 hours away from home), I called Kade "honey."

He said "Don't call me honey Mom."

In his irritated tone.

"Call me Kade!"

When Kyle was around 4, he used to say most frequently:

"Maybe yes or maybe no"

as a response to a question.

Kade is now most interested in the definition of the word maybe.

"Maybe means YES!" he says

We resort back to Kyle's four year old definition to try to relate to Kade. He's starting to get it.

I am loving Brandon's little hawk.

He just got a haircut and I think that he looks so grown up with his hair all gelled up.

Lauren is working on a rain dance to learn the water cycle with a group of her classmates.

She has come up with some cute choreography.

I commented on what a great job she was doing making it up.

"We can't make it BRILLIANT because then Mrs. Sanders will make us do it in front of the class."

I'm not sure if I have mentioned this before, BUT our neighbor who I think gets really irritated with us and our kids and all our stuff in the backyard, has this "tree"

He has no other landscaping in the backyard besides his pool. Next to the pool is this weed. Seriously it is some desert bush that you would find growing next to Lake Mead. We used to joke about it when it was smaller and not so tall. That maybe the association would send him a letter to pick his weed. We even debated hopping over the fence and pulling it when he was gone to work. Apparently he likes it. This large weed now looks like a tree. But in my opinion, it is an eye sore.

Little Stinker

2008-01-08T21:24:00.000-08:00

This little dude is such a tease.

He enjoys a good game of chase.

You can literally see the tease in his eyes.

As far as I can remember, he is the youngest of the Abbott clan to display this characteristic.

They all like to tease....just started later.

I wonder what he will be like when he grows up?

Just a few other things that Brandon LOVES to do as of late:

Pull all of the eraser ends off of pencils. This is always nice when the kids are trying to do homework.
Find loose change and put in his mouth.
Pull the tape out of the living scriptures VCR tapes. The ones that were so stinkin expensive to begin with....the ones that would cost too much to replace.
Move the dining chairs up to the kitchen counter and walk across it.
get into any cupboard with a child lock.
open the fridge door.

He is a handful, that's for sure.

But that little dude makes me smile.

and I simply love the way he looks when he runs with that chunky body!

Round Two

2008-01-07T19:22:00.000-08:00

Today I started another 8 week photography class with Wendy.

I am so excited for another chance to learn and grow.

Looking forward to a hard 8 weeks, but time that will be well worth the work.

Today I picked up my camera with the assignment in mind.

This was one of my favorites.....

one that I never would have snapped, had I not had the direction.

The Best

2008-01-06T22:47:00.000-08:00

thing about our new church time (9am) is the fact that naps are actually a possibility. I sure did take one today and it was wonderful. Not to mention the fact that Brandon was much more pleasant at that hour and church was bearable. Kade is a sunbeam which is hard to imagine, because he is so small. He teared up a bit, thankfully I am in primary, so he could see me for the first part. He was so dang cute and thinks that next week might just be a little bit of fun and not so scary.

We went to family dinner at Poppa and Grammie's house. The kids played Don't Eat Pete and air hockey. My boys love them some Poppa.

Random Thoughts

2008-01-03T15:08:00.000-08:00

The boys need haircuts BAD!
How can little boys with little legs outrun me?
Since when do 9 year olds say they need more freedom? and cell phones??
I'm pretty scared of what it is going to be like when she is a teenager FOR REAL!
Kade can touch his tongue to his nose....apparently only he and I can do that. Lauren and Kyle have fat tongues like their Dad. We tested it out.
Kade got this big truck from his Grandpa Bruce and Grandma Sandie. When he came home I laughed because I got him one for Christmas as well. I have a hard time returning things.....it's too much hassle. So now we have two, one for Brandon and one for Kade.
You would think that they were Lauren and Kyle's they have been riding around in them all over downstairs for the past three days.
What's for dinner?
It's going to be nice when we all get back into a routine.....bedtime, wake up time before 10am (not ME the big kids) They are out of control.
You can get ear infections even if you have tubes in your ears. I know this because we spent the morning at the doctor's office. Kyle has two....ears and infections in both of them.
The pharmacist knows me by name....just by looking at me. That's how often we are there.

Resolutions

2008-01-01T22:13:00.000-08:00

I always like the freshness of a new year. Planning on changes that I want to make, things I want to be better at. As I was thinking about my approach for this year, I wanted to be simple so I wouldn't overwhelm myself. Because lets face it....there are millions of things that I could do better. Maybe I'd categorize into various areas: physical, creative, emotional, spiritual, organizational and then make one doable goal for each. That way I would have five main goals. I still haven't decided exactly what I am going to try to accomplish, but I have some ideas. The one thing I do know is I will not stress about it!

I thought that I would "try" and do 365 photos for next year with my photo a day. I know that is a BIG goal, but if I could get most of the days done, it would be a cool visual representation of my year. So hop on over there and keep me accountable.

Speaking of resolutions, Steve had a conversation with Lauren and Kyle in the car on the way to the movies today.

Kyle resolves to be nicer to his brothers and sister. To try very hard not to tease or aggravate them. Perfect for him :)

Lauren resolves to be "confident. When Dad and Mom tell me NO about getting a dog. I will save my money and go buy one myself."

hahahahahhahahahahahaha! Yeah right!

Christmas 2007

2008-01-01T16:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas is down. It feels so good to get it all boxed up. I have no idea why I can't stand the decorations after Christmas. I love the anticipation of Christmas and all of the traditions and time spent together with family, it is just nice to get on with it.

We had a nice Christmas Eve. New pajamas for the kids, a nice ham dinner, a little reindeer food, some treats for Santa.....thankfully we had ingredients for these yummy pretzels because I was in no mood to make cookies from scratch. That idea seemed good enough for Kyle. Everyone went to bed at a reasonable hour and woke up at 7am. Not too shabby.

We had a nice time here opening presents. The three big kids went downstairs together and I kept hearing "That is awesome!" That totally makes it for me. They were all happy, and I was happy. We spent the rest of the day at Poppa and Grammies with the cousins. Lauren set up a storefront using Sadie's puppet theater. She made little fliers for "Sassy Nails" She did every one's nails including great grandma. And all the kids were hanging out holding Trace's dog Spike. His sweater still cracks me up. We are all still trying to get well. I am really sick of medicine bottles and lists of who has had what at what time. Hoping we get over this soon.

Still Learning

2007-12-31T13:47:00.000-08:00

So it's been said that the best way to learn is through your mistakes.

Well......HELLO how many mistakes do I have to make before I get it?

My sister Candace had mentioned that her in laws wanted a family shot while everyone was together for Christmas.

I said oh scary....and that was the end of that.

Very last minute, they wanted me to come.

I made TONS of mistakes.

First of all doing a large group is HARD.

Top shot was the best I got, even though baby Claire is squirming out of Dylan's lap.

So things I learned:

1. Take tons of shots of each pose so that there is a guaranteed keeper. Think you have enough? Take 5 more just to be sure.

2. Pay attention to little things....like who is slouching, or where so and so's arm is.

3. Be more decisive.

4. Be more aggressive about location. We positioned everyone on the grass, I liked the closeness of that pose better and there were more to choose from. HOWEVER, I totally blew out one sister because she was in the sun and the ones in the back were underexposed. The middle was perfect. I should have moved everyone to more even lighting. Would have had much better results.

5. Quit being so dang hard on myself......I am not a professional.

6. Be thankful for the experience, LEARN from it, move on and do better next time.

Ornament Tradition

2007-12-29T10:12:00.000-08:00

Every year Poppa and Grammie get the kids a special ornament.

The idea is, when they are all grown up, the ornament box will go with them to decorate their own tree.

Usually Grammie tries to get something that is specific for that child.

It doesn't always work that way.

Sometimes she gets one she thinks is cute.

This year Lauren's was a star....because she was in the school play.

Kyle's is basketball because he has discovered that he loves playing this year.
I think this is a neat tradition.

The kids love pulling out the ornaments each year and they really like to find "their ornaments."

And one more soup recipe share.

This one was a bit more labor intensive....

but well worth it.

It is so creamy!

Mom calls it: Alpine Village Soup

4 raw chicken breasts

1 small onion chopped

1 c chopped celery

1 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

1 c chicken broth

1 c chopped carrots

1 c chopped potato

1/2 tsp. sugar

Put raw chicken and cut up vegetables in a large pot. Put in just enough water to cover the chicken. Boil until chicken is done. Take out the chicken and shred. Put it back in the pot. In large saucepan, make a white sauce. Melt 3/4 c butter over medium/high heat and whisk in 2/3 c. flour. Then add 4 c. milk cook for about 4 minutes. Stir constantly. Add the white sauce to the regular pot. Enjoy!

2007-12-27T07:38:00.000-08:00

He decided he didn't want to be left out....

and I'm so glad he did.

We had a great Christmas.

I'll expound later.

We also got a bad case of the flu.

Aches, and pains, fevers, congestion, dizziness, headaches.

I feel like I want to

lie down and D I E!

So yesterday I was so happy when Steve got home before dinner needed to be made.

I wanted this creamy chicken soup that I remembered being so good.

But all I had was a scribbled down recipe on the back of a candle receipt that I had purchased years ago.

Steve wanted the chicken wild rice soup. Which is also so yummy.

I met him at his truck and in a scratchy, gruff voice asked him to please go to the store to get the missing ingredients.

Since he was so willing to go, I let him have his choice and it hit the spot.

This recipe was given to me by my sister, Candace in 2002.

How would I know the year you ask?

Well I have this great way of organizing my recipes.

She emailed it to me and I keep everything on its original paper: scribbled on a receipt, grocery list, printed off the computer on an 81/2x11 piece of paper, and then I just throw it up on the top shelf of my cabinet. I am a MESS!

On to the recipe

5 1/3 c. water

1 pkg. long grain & wild rice mix

1 envelope dried chicken noodle soup mix

1 celery rib, chopped

1 carrot, chopped

1/3 c. onion, chopped

2 cans condensed cream of chicken soup

1 cup cooked chicken, cubed

In large saucepan, combine water, rice with contents of seasoning packet and soup mix. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover & simmer for 10 min. Stir in celery, carrot & onion. Cover and simmer for 10 min. Stir in chicken, soup and chicken. Cook 8 minutes longer or until rice & vegetables are tender. Yield: 5 servings

Santa Baby

2007-12-21T14:40:00.000-08:00

My Santa babies

minus Kade who did not want to cooperate.

Fighting for Computer Time

2007-12-21T11:23:00.000-08:00

So now my three year old has discovered the computer.

Between Club Penguin with the older two and playhouse disney with Kade, I have been last on the list for the computer.

I have things I want to share.....

but that will have to wait.

Until then,

I found these cute Christmas trees

here and here.

Wouldn't those make great Super Saturday projects?

I'm filing that away if I get asked to help.

2007-12-19T23:44:00.000-08:00

Quick self portrait.

I realized that I hadn't picked up the camera in a few days.

Went around snapping a few Christmas details.

Realizing that I NEED to buy an external flash

because I had to bump up my ISO thus the graininess.

It turned out nonetheless.

I really need to try to do more of these in the coming year.

Then I am documented.

I'm sure the kids would like to see what I looked like through the years.

I Made a List....

2007-12-19T23:37:00.000-08:00

I checked it twice,

and I am D O N E at the store.

Yipee!

That feels great.

Now to find time to wrap all the stuff I got.

If only my children would go to sleep before 11pm

I ended up only going out two times

which is wonderful for me who hates to shop.

Some guy at Walmart says

Wow! You are doing some serious Christmas shopping.

Uh yeah, that's what four kids and a big long list of family gift exchanges will do to you.

And then I still second guessed myself.

Had to make sure I had enough for each child.

Oh the joys of giving and being fair and hoping everyone has

a very happy Christmas morning.

Somehow it always works out.

More Advent Calendar Talk

2007-12-17T13:31:00.000-08:00

Finally finished all of the pieces for our advent calendar. Kyle has been the one this year keeping track. He has placed all of the pieces on each morning. Sometimes he gets really anxious and does it the night before. So now that I have everything almost done, he won't have to wait for me to catch up.

I think that next year I will want to add another calendar by doing something along these lines: here, here or here.

I cannot knit, but I thought sewing some small stockings or even getting various baby sized socks could be cute going up the stairs. Then I could put a small piece of candy along, scripture/song and a paper with an activity to do each day.

Hot Chocolate

2007-12-13T15:41:00.001-08:00

This year's neighbor/friend gifts:

Hot chocolate mix with chocolate and candy cane covered spoons.

I really am not a big hot chocolate fan.

I prefer cold drinks for some reason.

I always make my hot chocolate with 1/2 hot and 1/2 cold water.

I hate to wait for it to be the right temperature....

Anyways, I found this recipe and it is yummy!

It makes a ton (45 servings, I believe)

this is how the original recipe read:

10 cups dry milk powder

4 3/4c. powdered sugar

1 3/4c. cocoa powder

1 3/4 c. non dairy creamer (french vanilla)

Some commented on ways to enhance the recipe, I followed their advice:

instead of the measurements above use

1 bag of powdered sugar

1 tin of cocoa powder and

increase creamer to 2 1/4c.

Apparently the original recipe did not have enough sweetness.

Add 1/3 of mixture to 1 cup hot water.

For some reason, the list gets longer each year.

So I have been doing these in cycles.....

can't wait to get them all out of my kitchen.

Gumdrops

2007-12-11T21:05:00.000-08:00

Made the gumdrop wreath that Candace shared.

The boys had a blast.

I wish that I had a window to hang it in because it looks really pretty with the light shining through.

Found the perfect spot this afternoon....

Both Kyle and Kade are proud of their project.

The NFR is in town....

2007-12-10T23:28:00.000-08:00

Kyle went last year to the mutton races down at the cowboy christmas with Kason.

He had such a blast, he was excited when he invited him again this year.

Kason was definitely in his element.

He and Kyron were so cute dressed in their boots, button up shirts, jeans and cowboy hats.

Even Kenzi had her pink boots on.

Anyways, Kade and Lauren decided against actually riding.

The boys got their belt buckles and Kyle kept talking about next year.

I told him he would probably weigh too much to do it next year....

the weight limit was 60lbs and he weighed in at 62.

They let him go anyways.

He says "No Mom....I can do it if I go to the gym!"

I missed Kyron, but he held on the longest.

I was trying to shoot while holding squiggly, dirt eating Brandon

Playing

2007-12-09T23:05:00.000-08:00

with some defined words collage templates...

found them here.

The right image is probably not the best shot to go in that slot.

I was just trying to figure it out.

I think these would make great gifts printed out on some thick matte or foam board to set on some ledge shelves instead of framing them.

I might just print some out for me to put on my shelves in the front room.

I have been meaning to change those photos out.

Love how those two are working the camera in that right shot.

Button Trees

2007-12-08T20:02:00.000-08:00

Got this idea from Ali Edwards blog.....it was originally posted on 2peas.

Kyle put "ornaments" on and found a star in my scrap stash.

He declared it done. I think that it looks cute amongst our Christmas decorations.

Lauren started and has yet to finish hers.

I like her color combo though.

I'm sure it will be fabulous when it is complete.

While at the grocery tonight, I picked up materials to make the gumdrop wreath

that Candace shared.

I got one small form at the dollar store.

I figured we could all work together......

seeing how the never finish a project gene runs in the family.

Pirates

2007-12-07T14:13:00.000-08:00

During FHE (Family Home Evening) this past Monday,

I pulled out the gospel art kit and found the picture of the nativity.

I asked Kade to tell me about what was happening and who was there.

He was very excited to have the chance to answer.

I sure did have to hold back the older two.

He pointed and said, "This is Jesus."

Then pointed to Joseph and said, "this is a pirate"

and then to one of the shepherds "this is a naked man."

Out of the mouth of babes!

After further questioning, he does in fact know that "the pirate" is Joseph and the "naked man" is a shepherd.

Notes from the Week

2007-12-06T22:03:00.000-08:00

I think that I have listened to the first half of Santa Claus 3 at least 20 times yet, I have never seen the movie in its entirety. That would be the movie of choice in the car DVD player.

This week has flown by.....the kids are busier then when they are in school. I feel like I am driving them all over the place between friends and play practice and appointments. My life is to cater to their social schedules. It will be nice to get back into the swing of things.

I sure did do some power shopping. Is that even a phrase? Anyways tackled a serious list and gave it a good effort. That is my kind of shopping. Go to one store, namely Target and get er done! No fussing around going to different locations. I still have a few things but gosh it feels good to have something accomplished.

We have misplaced Kyle's shoes. Or rather he has misplaced them. This is not uncommon for Kyle, but I usually find them the next day. He took them out back when he was busily digging or as they call it "mining" in the backyard. I call it making a serious mess. Those kids are worse than the digging-est dog. Do you remember that book? I spelled it wrong I'm sure. I digress. Anyways, cannot find the shoes. Not anywhere. Would be fine, except he needs them for basketball on Saturday.

Our neighbors down the street have a full on lighted Christmas tree on their front porch. Interesting. That's all I'm gonna say about that.

While at Target, Steve placed a few items in the cart for Christmas presents. A vintage game of Stratego and Risk. I remember my brothers being big into Risk. He was so excited he busted out BOTH games that same night to play with the kids. We had agreed upon opening 1 game and saving the other for Christmas. He couldn't wait. He is so bad about keeping surprises. So bad indeed that he told the kids that we bought Pirates of the Caribbean 2 & 3. Kyle keeps asking about it and I finally had to tell them that I did not buy it.

I went with your suggestion of all three pictures for the Christmas card. I attempted my own. It looks really elementary because I hurt my brain and spent a couple of hours trying to figure out HOW to make it all come together. I downloaded the free December kit on 2Peas thinking I could figure it out. I have to hand it to those who scrap digitally. It is overwhelming. I still don't know how to cut paper and get it on there right. Anywho, it's done.

I was feeling pressure since Jen Rose has already mailed out her CUTE card!
Lauren is making some little coin purses for her friends along with the clear glass magnets to go inside. I am not a seamstress like my sisters Candace and Kimberly. It took some time to figure out but Lauren was patient and she did most of the sewing. Nice first project for her. She thinks she wants a sewing machine. I think she can use mine....it doesn't get much use.
We did get some fabric for new drapes over the slider. I bought a whole bunch of yardage without even bringing home a swatch. Brave I was. Then I kept thinking the whole way home, "What if it doesn't work?" It is perfect. So glad I got it and can't wait to tackle it after Christmas.
Speaking of sewing projects, got some fabric to finally make Kyle's quilt. We finished Lauren's last winter and never got around to Kyle's. He wants to help sew it.
Borrowed the second book in the Twilight series. Haven't had much time to read though.
Lauren cornered me this week about the validity of Santa Claus. She was armed with arguments against the Jolly fellow.

How does he get inside houses with no chimneys and alarms like ours?
How can he deliver presents to everyone in the entire world in one night?
Especially since magic is NOT REAL.
Plus last year I saw my idog in the garage and on Christmas morning the tag said from: Santa.

So tell me Mom, as she crosses her arms.....the truth. You really want to know? Yes......

and then I asked if she was upset. No she says. I told her never to breathe a word of this to anyone. Not even if they ask. People should really find out on their own I say.

Then she says.....

Someone should really tell people about this especially Moms and Dads before they become Moms and Dads because they might go to bed on Christmas Eve and think everything will be taken care of in the morning. Their kids will be sad!

My friend Hannah is going to be like that. Someone will need to tell her when she gets to be an adult.

Redd Family

2007-12-06T15:08:00.000-08:00

I redeemed myself with this shoot.....there were tons to choose from.
Really cute and spunky kids that makes for easy posing.
I tried another backlit one just for practice. I did wash out Jon's face, but I still like it.
I'll post a couple more when I get them edited because Mollie was such a poser and Charlie was hilarious.
He couldn't hold still, which made for some really fun images.

Attempted Red Rock Christmas Pictures

2007-12-05T13:57:00.000-08:00

This is what I have to work with.....

Somehow I don't think Brandon screaming is a good way to send Christmas greetings.

I am giving one last effort tomorrow morning and then it will be individual shots.

The Woolf's on the other had got quite a few keepers.

Which I am glad about.

We ventured out to Calico Basin....not what I expected, but it ended up being fun for the kids.

It was difficult with all of our little kids.

But a good time.

This was my favorite of Kooper....

**On that last one of the Woolfs I sponged the color into the rocks...

what do you think?

Family #2

2007-12-03T09:57:00.000-08:00

Went to get shots of Carol's family for Christmas pictures.

I was so bummed that they have lens flare.

I left my lens hood at home.

I was kicking myself about some of the little things that I missed.

wishing that I had positioned them better, looked to see how the big kids were standing, making sure that their hands were out of their face.

I was focused on my settings and getting Jack before he was done.

I have so much to learn.

Thankfully there was one they could use and we will redo in the Spring.

Carol I hope you don't mind that I posted these.

2007-12-01T17:30:00.000-08:00

I love the lights of the Christmas tree.

It makes the house seem warm and cozy.

Today....

we went to Kyle's basketball game which was very entertaining.
I got a short nap. That was heaven.
I listened to Steve and the big kids playing a game of Monopoly. Steve and Kyle teamed up against Lauren, but she still won. Apparently she is a lucky girl. Those two have not been able to beat her.
Thinking about getting serious with my lists. Tonight I will actually make one. And this week I will focus on getting some things crossed off. It is December 1st after all. For some reason, I am not panicked about my disorganized state.

It's Raining

2007-11-30T13:45:00.000-08:00

I thought I should attempt to take a photo of all four kids for Christmas cards before the rain started....this is how it went down: I didn't care what they were wearing, but Lauren was insisting on her puffy jacket. I am just happy she likes it. She has issues with the puffiness. In year's past, she would not wear puffy jackets because she thought it made her look fat! Crazy girl. Anyways, Brandon wanted no part of this. Which makes me think I'm not getting a shot of all four so I better have a new idea. When Kade was his age, we had to do individual shots and put them all together. I think that will be the plan again.

My kids get so excited when it rains. I remember being happy when it rained as a kid too. It was always fun to play outside. Remember when it would flood every now and then on the state streets, especially on the big dip on Arden? People would get in their bathing suits and tube down those streets. I always wished we could do that. Mom always said NO! I can totally see her point now....How WT is that, really though? Anyways, my kids are digging in the wood chips. They say they are mining. I have not actually been all the way out there to see the damage, but they are filthy, and it's been an hour or so, all three of them.....I can only imagine. Oh well, it's good fun. The kind we used to have when we were kids. Playing for hours outside. It just doesn't happen like that anymore.

Finally, I forgot to post this the other day. The kids enjoyed having Lauren home during playgroup. When Lauren noticed Mollie's shirt, she had to change into hers so they could be twins. They thought it was cool.

Cranberry and Popcorn Strings

2007-11-29T13:53:00.000-08:00

This is what we did late in the afternoon....

we did not technically finish one strand yet.

They got too tired, and it was hard keeping Brandon away.

I heard Kyle say,

I'm trying really hard not to eat the popcorn, as he popped some into his mouth.

We ended up with more popcorn in the bellies

and covering the entire table and floor

than actually made it on the strings.

Lesson learned: do these sorts of projects after Brandon goes to bed!

Their Faces Say It All

2007-11-27T18:13:00.000-08:00

This pretty much sums up how our track break is going.

They think they are deprived children because they each can't have a friend 24/7.

Their attitudes quickly changed when their invites for play dates returned their calls this afternoon.

Lashes

2007-11-26T13:54:00.000-08:00

I love his long lashes.

All of our kids were blessed with long lashes.

Love that!

First Family

2007-11-26T13:38:00.000-08:00

that I've ever shot all together.

Brough's needed a family picture for their Christmas cards.

It was a quick little session just inside their garage.

Stephanie helped make it painless (for me)

verified my settings, helped with posing.

I think we got a few keepers.

Here are a few random ones.

I didn't want to post any that she may use for her cards.

Books

2007-11-22T22:05:00.001-08:00

I forgot to mention,

I.love.this.book!

Am totally addicted,

read the last half in the past three days.

Need to get my hands on the next book.

Linde, Sunee?

I may not be able to wait until you guys get home.

I need some closure!

Thanksgiving Day

2007-11-22T21:39:00.000-08:00

I bought this little sign at Jen's craft show.

I like it so much it is staying up all year.

A good reminder I think, to be grateful.

We had a lovely dinner at Dad and Mom's

the kids played basketball, hunted for tiny snails, caught crickets, gave rides on the skateboards until they were filthy!

Brandon did not take one nap.

ALL DAY.

The girls looked at sale papers and marked their lists

for going out to the stores tomorrow at crazy hours.

(Amber and Jessica)

[Amber even went today on THANKSGIVING morning to Kmart.

What the....? ]

I will be sleeping thank you very much!

Insanity I tell you.

I would rather be behind in my shopping,

then spend it with a bunch of crazy, fanatical shoppers before the crack of dawn.

Can you believe I forgot my camera battery?

Hence no pictures.

I dealt with it though.

Life goes on and we all had a wonderful time.

Pictures or no pictures.

Pie Making

2007-11-22T10:51:00.000-08:00

The kids had a blast making their own pumpkin pies this year.

It was genius...the idea of small versions of the real thing.

But then again Mom IS a genius!

They loved having their own creation.

It went faster, and there was less contention!

**These are horrible pictures technically. But it is making my head hurt trying to fix them. I think I may even be making them worse....I really need to learn how to use a flash!

Having 8 kids has made Dad and Mom exceptional people.

They are both so patient with the grandkids.

Dad came home from work last night to a houseful of kids....

all busily working, and waiting, and eating, and needing things....

Mom orchestrating the whole process.

Never missing a beat.

Making things run smoothly while everyone was enjoying themselves.

Dad grabbed a kid, went around talking to the rest
Playing with the babies....he didn't even mind that we all ate his soup.

Brooke summed it up....Mom and Dad are good at finding little moments of one on one with the kids. Even though there is so much always going on, they know each one and make them feel special. Kinda like what they did when we were kids. Such good parents and grandparents!

I am grateful for them!

14 Years

2007-11-20T11:35:00.000-08:00

This is what we were doing.....

Funny now, times and styles have changed.

I looked through my album today and laughed.

We were so young!

For those of you who never knew me with long hair...

here I am.

When I was younger I never imagined myself having short hair.

Now I can't imagine going back to long.

I Love

2007-11-18T08:07:00.000-08:00

* These boys think that all I have to do is swing them. We are out there several times a day....swinging! They love it. Frankly, all of the kids love to swing. It's a nice time for us to all be together talking.

* That my car got a serious washing. I don't know why I put that off. I drive around in filth. I must say, that a clean car, inside and out puts a whole new perspective on the day.

* That I got a few problem areas in the house tackled this week. Looks and feels better.

* That Thanksgiving is just a few days away. The kids will get together with Grammie to make the pumpkin pies. And my favorite....apple. No other apple pie will do. There is no comparison. It is simply delicious! I can't wait.

* That I got a new camera. Steve gave in. I love it, it is just taking some getting used to.
I love that Steve supports me in my interests. He never says no can't do that, it's silly, or too much money. Here's the deal.... when we were engaged, Steve met me at the ring store. He got there before me and a conversation with the jeweler. When I got there he said, you can have your choice of these three . I was thinking....what the heck? I don't want one of these....I want this one or that one. But I chose, and it wasn't my first choice. We didn't go into debt to get it, which I was glad for later. He promised to someday replace it with something I loved. Well, time goes on and kids are added, and we have more money obligations. A new ring seems kind of frivolous. I am getting to the point really. I guess I am not much of a jewelry girl....because I would rather have a new camera body, or lens or something than a new wedding ring any day. Is that crazy? So he let me have a new camera.....that tells me that he loves me more than any piece of jewelry.

* This week we celebrate 14 years of marriage. Happy to be to this point. Happy for the things that we have experienced together. Mostly the good and sometimes the bad that makes us the people that we are today. Happy for the family that we have. I LOVE those kids.

I promised Carol a picture of our wedding day would be coming...if I could get our scanner to cooperate. Be on the lookout this week.

Three

2007-11-14T15:12:00.000-08:00

I had forgotten how mischievous three year olds are.

I totally agree that three is way worse than the "terrible twos"

But then it makes it all worthwhile when they turn four.

Four is a sweet age!

Don't let his handsome little face fool you,

he is into everything with a big time attitude.

Kinda Overwhelmed

2007-11-14T13:59:00.000-08:00

these days....

by the extra STUFF that weighs me down.

Been thinking about decluttering.

Started today by cleaning out the pantry.

Hello...what a difference.

Anyways, I have these problem areas all over my house.

It is starting to bug.

Getting me down.

It's crazy to me how my mood can be directly related to my surroundings.

Hoping to get things under control before the big kids are out on track break...

for what is it 7 weeks???

I think organized crafts are in the plan. I'll be on the lookout and I'll post my finds.

Full Picture

2007-11-14T13:41:00.000-08:00

of the advent calendar....

I know I promised a full picture for those of you waiting....here it is.

Minus a little silver ribbon that fell off.

Advent Calendars

2007-11-10T19:33:00.000-08:00

Found a couple of cute variations of advent calendars....

Guess that's been on the brain.

We had Super Saturday today and I'm glad it is over.
Calendars turned out cute. Everyone was happy.

So check this idea and here it is displayed.

And then we saw this picture in the pottery barn catalog She designed a cute calendar based on this idea.

Did you see this?

So cute. And Mr. Kyle lost his other front tooth.

Sassy

2007-11-08T23:02:00.000-08:00

We've got a lot of attitude around here.

When Steve got home tonight,

I had enough of all of it.
Lauren was having "that tone"

Steve was "discussing" something with her regarding her homework that she was still working on. She was dramatic and a bit defensive.

She blurted out,

"Are you stupid?"

to her Dad.

WHAT?

I say

Then I go into how that is so disrespectful.

Then she says,

"I meant are you SPECIAL?"

I couldn't help it....

I busted up laughing.

This girl is something else.

Good thing we LOVE her.

2007-11-08T21:05:00.000-08:00

We always used to ask Mom why she gave into the crazy requests of the "little kids" She would remake sandwiches if she happened to cut it in a triangle instead of 4 little squares. Whoever it was (Kimberly) would be FREAKING out
and we would always ask WHY?
Well........now I know why!
Except this little ball of love
is worse than any of my brothers or sisters
or any child that is ours.
I really think he is borderline OCD.
Serious!

*I love this shot even though I missed the focus point....his eyes!

Driving me crazy...

2007-11-06T15:02:00.001-08:00

1. About four times a month, I get an automated call which says they have "an important message for Joan Meza." Then it proceeds to give options: press 1 if you are that person, 2 if that person is not home 3 hold while you get that person or 4 no one here by that name. I used to hold on and press 4 every single time.....NOW I just hang up. Apparently they aren't getting the clue that WE DON'T KNOW JOAN MEZA! It would be great if I could get a real person to tell them to quit calling us. I even tried to pretend that I was Joan Meza and pressed 1, they wanted proof that I was indeed her. Whatever! Can you tell that I got that call for Joan today?

2. I tried to go to the storytime at the library today. I was thinking to myself....I am such a good momma. These two boys are gonna LOVE this. Well.....Brandon totally freaked out. We walked into the room and he would not stop screaming. I think it reminded him of when I used to leave him at the gym's children's room. Notice I said "used to" Yeah, because I haven't been there for oh....three weeks. So we grabbed a few books, I corralled them out to the car (because I didn't bring the stroller in because we were all going to have such a fun time). Which was no small feat. Making Brandon do something he doesn't want to is difficult especially when packing a bunch of books.

3. Then I remembered why I am most irritated.....IT IS STINKIN HOT! What is up with the high 80's for the beginning of November. We have not even been able to bust out the sweatshirts. Maybe for that one week when it got cold (for Vegas) and I was excited that the cooler temps were coming....and then bam back to stinkin summer. I am not complaining, it is beautiful weather, I would consider it beautiful for the summer or the spring but not the fall!

4. Kade and his attitude. All of the sudden he doesn't want me to hold his hand, or help him out in the parking lot, or drive the car in the front of the cart at the grocery. He has always been annoyingly independent, it is just getting worse the older he gets. Brandon on the other hand now LOVES to drive. Pretty soon, I will be going to the grocery alone because I won't be able to handle two stubborn little boys.

Enough complaining already......
Jen Rose was at Sunday dinner and we were browsing through the new Christmas pottery barn catalog. Saw this cute idea of a wall covered in sheet metal to be used as a huge magnet board. There are possible hazards with doing this yourself namely the sharp edges when it is cut. But you could totally work around that. I mentioned it to Steve because I think it could be really cute in the kids room.....

he wasn't as excited as Jen. He said maybe in our next house. Ideas just equal time and money for him. So Jen, can't wait to see what you do with this....I am filing it away for another day.

Kade did say today as he was sitting on the garbage can while I was doing dishes, "It stinks in here. We need to get a new house." If it were only that easy dude!

And since this is a total fall recipe I will share. I may have shared this before but it is so good!

We love it especially in warm bread bowls from Smiths

Potato Soup in the crock pot

8-10 med. potatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped

1/2 lb. bacon (I just throw in REAL bacon bits)

1 can cream of chicken

3 cans chicken broth

1 8oz. pkg. cream cheese

1 med. onion, chopped

pepper to taste

Put potatoes, bacon and onion in crock pot. Whisk together soups, softened cream cheese and pepper. (It will be a little clumpy) Pour mixture over potatoes. Cook 8-10 hrs. on low or 5-6 hrs. on high. When soup is done, take about 1/3 out and run it through the blender to thicken it up. Serve in bread bowls with grated cheese on top. Seriously....the bread bowls make it!

**I wasn't going to end on a negative note, but WHY does blogger refuse to listen to me regarding the spacing. I say single space blogger does double spacing! uggh!

More.....

2007-11-04T22:24:00.000-08:00

Few more of Crew and Talan.

Sunday Dinner Photos

2007-11-04T21:11:00.000-08:00

My sister Kimberly made a quick trip down from college this weekend.

I thought that I would get a picture of her together with the neices and nephews that were there for Sunday dinner.

The little girl sitting next to Lauren and the boy in the baseball hat are actually Trace and Talan's cousins but they come for dinner a lot so they hopped in for the picture.

This little run of photos cracks me up.

The top one has been edited, so I cropped the little bit of his shoe that you could see.

He did not want to cooperate.

He was playing on the top step.
Then he notices that Kyle is holding Crew.

Apparently he did not like that.

I love that he notices,

looks at me

and then tries to get him off of Kyle's lap.

The last two are just classic!

Those are the faces he makes when he is mad.

Once Crew was removed, he didn't want Kyle,

he just wanted Crew to know he didn't belong on his brother's lap.

This Week

2007-11-01T13:28:00.001-07:00

has been insanely crazy!
After a string of busy days, and staying up way too late (for me), today really is the icing on the cake.
This is how last night went down:
Kyle was complaining after school of a headache/stomachache.
He came home and took a nap and said he was ready to get candy.
After a fun evening of trick or treating all the kids went to bed rather nicely.
They didn't really have a real dinner (a few bites of mac and cheese) so W.T., but they stuffed their tummies with lots of candy.
Before bed, Brandon bit through the glow stick bracelets that one of the kids got in their pail....had neon stuff in his mouth. I was freaking out! After rinsing his mouth, I realized that he hadn't really gotten THAT much in there and I assume none went into his tummy. He was acting fine before bed. Being the paranoid person that I am, I checked on him every time I was awakened last night. He slept like a log. Has ever since I bought the sleep machine. I joke that Brandon lives in Seattle. He may just grow up and love the sound of rain.
Kade was irrational as always before bed. He was rolling all over the place and crying about his "yegs" He does that every so often. I have to massage them and he will finally calm down, but I have no idea what his deal is. In the morning he is fine. Crazy!
After getting back to sleep, Kyle comes running into my room talking about a scary dream involving Dracula?? Oh yeah...and his head still hurts.
Got the Motrin, made a bed with blankets by my bed.
Waited for the two boys to go to sleep, and left them all to have my own space in Kyle's bed.
Slept a few hours when I hear a loud plop on the ground. Lauren and all her blankets.
She was fixing to come into my room.
I say Hey Lauren
Oh hi Mom and she crawls back up on her bunk.
Then....
this morning, Kyle starts in on throwing up.
Gross but true.
Took him to the doctor.
He has swollen glands, fluid in both ears, a very swollen throat and strep.
AGAIN!
He insisted on in and out for lunch.
I didn't think it was a wise idea.
He lost it after we dropped the prescription off.
in the car...in a bowl thankfully.

So basically, my house is a disaster!
Like really a disaster. Like I don't want anyone to come to my front door disaster.
The laundry has not been done, dishes not done, floor so sticky
and there is NO FOOD in this house.

Hoping for a better day tomorrow.
Happy that I have some shows to watch tonight.
Although it would be best if I put myself to bed by 9pm.

I leave you with this too yellowish/green of a photo. Because you read through the play by play.... so there ought to be a picture to go along with all the words. That's all I have.

2007-10-31T13:13:00.000-07:00

So here it is the end of the month....
Glad to get this sugar infested holiday over with!
I am SO SICK of eating candy.
The kids are pumped. Excited about their parties.
We have a busy day with parades and parties and getting more candy!
I usually do pictures a couple of days before Halloween.
Didn't happen this year.
So here is our superman before preschool.
Hoping to get a few of the big kids as well.

Happy Halloween!

Carving the Pumpkins

2007-10-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

I do not enjoy carving pumpkins.

I could hold the kids off no longer.

For FHE we got em done.

My battery ran out before I could get the finished products.

But they are cute and they did them almost all by themselves.

Kyle was really good this year about getting the guts out.

Kade too.

Lauren not so much.

Brandon was plain ornery!

Lauren carved a spooky tree, Kyle dracula and Kade's was a simple jack-o-lantern

with triangle eyes.

He was so excited and so was I....

because it was SIMPLE!

Fall

2007-10-29T14:34:00.000-07:00

I am not enjoying this warm weather! It is too hot for October. Cannot wait for a little crisp air. This morning we went to scope out Floyd Lamb State Park. The Redd's want some family pictures. I think that is the location. Lots of mature trees, a pond, a few ducks, peacocks....lots of shade so any time of day would be good. This is the closest I'm gonna get to fall. There were some trees with yellowish/red leaves....pretty! The family shoot is making me nervous. It will be good practice though. Need to start thinking about getting some pictures of my kids for Christmas cards. Can you believe it is right around the corner?

Crock Pot Ideas

2007-10-29T14:18:00.000-07:00

I always like to make crockpot meals for Sunday...

that way there are no worries about what to have.
Dinner is done when we get home.

Our yummy, easy roast recipe was getting old.

So..... I found a recipe on the web and Saturday night, I ran to the store

to get a few ingredients.

Whipped up this little number Sunday morning.

It looked to pretty in the crockpot.

But don't let that fool you, it was disgusting!

So bitter everyone hated it!

My question: What are your FAVORITE, YUMMY crockpot recipes.

I need to add to my collection.

Trunk Or Treat

2007-10-27T15:36:00.000-07:00

We survived the ward trunk or treat.

I asked Kade if he wanted a hot dog for dinner.

He whispered, "No...I think I'll just have candy."

And that is pretty much what he did.

The kids came home with their goods, combined it all into a big pile on the table

and began their tradition of sorting and bagging: suckers, chewy, chocolates.

We have SO MUCH CANDY!

Made my heart happy to see them share.

Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-24T21:41:00.000-07:00

It was hot!

Brandon wouldn't cooperate.

All he wanted to do was run.

Kade did not want his picture taken....

that's the best I could get.

Saw pumpkins, picked pumpkins, jumped in the bounce house.

It was a good day....

except for the fact that Brandon did not take a nap.

Not one today.

He was a grouchy bear.

Target

2007-10-24T19:51:00.000-07:00

I haven't been to the $100 store in awhile.

It did not disappoint.

Found a few things that I could not live without.

And on clearance to boot!

Who can say NO to Target clearance?

I love the endcaps....I never knew I couldn't live without this "love"

until today.

It is a little version of the Family letters I bought a year or so ago.

Goes perfectly in my front room.

And I had been looking for a new fall wreath.

You guessed it on clearance and it will stay on my front door until December.

The cute little pumpkins are courtesy of the Pumpkin Patch.

Got to go with Kade's preschool class for a field trip.

I Love

2007-10-23T21:42:00.000-07:00

that we had yummy potato soup from the crock pot. Smelt it all day. Ate it in warm, bread bowls. Delish!
Our family got "Booed"
That Kyle has a hole in his smile.
That all is well with my camera and lens. The man at the camera shop said so....and that's all I need. Feel much better now.
Brandon's wave. His way of communicating.
starting to think about Christmas. Making lists. Planning.
Catching up on all the episodes of Private Practice and Grey's Anatomy. Since Lost had filled most of our evenings. I did not realize that there was a season 3!!! It is not available until December, but we were shocked when we realized that we were not caught up with the rest of the world.
that my scrap table is cleaned off for when I get an itch to create something.
that I can wear jeans and my flip flops still and not be cold.

This Weekend

2007-10-22T14:31:00.000-07:00

Just a little recap of Carson's party.
I have some more, I'm having a hard time loading them tonight.
So maybe tomorrow.
Amber sure knows how to put on a party.
I missed getting her cute striped tights.
Fun was had by all even if they did cry because they got out of musical chairs.
For some reason that game is a tradition at the Howard boys' parties and my one kid never learns....that you don't need to CRY.

Little preview of half of my kids costumes. Lauren is Elizabeth from Pirates of the Carribean. Kade superman. Kyle must have gotten hot before I could get him in his Yoda getup. And Brandon well, I left him napping. But he will be crush from Finding Nemo.

In other news, Kyle lost his front tooth tonight.
He was ecstatic.
I was excited because the cute little thing was looking gray and dead.
Those teeth took forever to come out and now there is no stopping them.

While waiting to get Lauren from play practice, Kyle says, "I want to go to Kason's Grammie's house. Does she live here?" Nope. "Kason says she has a farm and you can chop wood and have a fire outside. I told Kason that my Aunt Gayelynn has a farm. We stayed there once. I want to go back. Hey Mom next time you and Dad go to San Diego or something, can you take me to Aunt Gayelynn's?"

Today...

2007-10-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking that I sometimes lack balance in my life. I always struggle to get it all done and to focus on what is important. I'm sure that this is a common struggle with moms and women in general. This week, I have spent an incredible amount of time on the computer, and my home has suffered. I learned a lot about the new photoshop program, but it took time away from keeping up on the everyday.
I decided that I would try to be better about focusing on the kids. Making sure that they are happy and have what they need. That they are being heard and feel important. I know that they do....but it is good to rededicate myself to focus on that first then my personal pursuits later. Nothing huge, just small things, like playing cars and trucks with Kade for awhile before doing laundry, reading to, talking to, working on homework together, letting them help with creative projects. Just basic stuff. I think that with that in the front of my mind my home can be a happier, peaceful place.
I thought that there is something wrong with my lens and/or camera. It could be completely in my mind, but my "5th child" is not focusing properly towards the end. Not getting as crisp of results as I am used to. Trying to figure that out.
Realizing that I need to take learning photography SLOW. It can become frustrating to want to know something and to see amazing photographs and think why can't I do that? I also realized that I am lucky to be a part of a great forum where learning will continue and where amazing photographers are willing to give advice and tips freely. I know that if I push through and keep working hard it will come over time. Sorry about all the photography stuff. It felt good to get that out.
I got all my laundry done, folded and put away.
I get to go out with Steve. That will definitely help with the putting my life back in balance part.
I got this cute picture of Brandon. I love that kid.

Halloween Decorations

2007-10-18T12:42:00.000-07:00

I was thinking yesterday that we aren't very festive for Halloween.

We used to be. Remember the Halloween parties before kids?

I guess it's just trouble to me.
I went around and took pictures of the only Halloween decorations we have up.

It is quite a small, piddly, pathetic collection.

I didn't even put up the fall wreath this year.

Our poor doorway has the pot with dead flowers from the summer.

I was thinking of filling it with pumpkins to dress it up and make it look not so

"Welcome to our dead, uncared for home"

I haven't even bought pumpkins for carving.

Thank goodness Kade makes cute crafts at preschool.

And we have the old, trusty pumpkin for outside.

I have enjoyed looking at Jennifer's blog for Halloween ideas.

That was about as far as it has gone with me though.....looking.

Next year if I decide to get into the spirit, I will have a wealth of ideas.

2007-10-17T14:11:00.000-07:00

I don't get nearly enough of him. He's always busy playing or bugging or teasing. Glad he let me take some yesterday....even if he was posing.

Photoshop Talk

2007-10-16T22:47:00.000-07:00

I have been trying out shooting in raw instead of jpeg.
With this new learning adventure comes more headaches in the area of photoshop.
So for the past two days I have been experimenting.
It has taken me much longer to do any edits because I am so unfamiliar.
Downloaded a free 30 day trial for PSCS3.
This is one of the first raw images that I am happy with.
Trying to make sense of it.
Thinking that I want to pursue this hobby of mine.
So I need to get the tools and learn them.
Have a fabulous alumni forum (thanks to Wendy's class) that has been working me through this process.
Steve is going to DIE when I tell him I want this program.
He'll get over it though :)

Advent Calendar How To

2007-10-16T13:21:00.001-07:00

What you need:
1. cookie sheet any size will do. I bought a medium sized one at Walmart for $3.40
2. Mod Podge
3. foam brushes
4. corner rounder
5. Patterned Paper
6. foam stamps, number stamps and/or letter and number stickers
7. random embellishments: flowers, tags, whatever is in your stash.
I made this one simple with four things: stars, circle tags, reg. tags and trees. Then just rotated them in a pattern. For the 25th I made a little reindeer with a small circle punch for the nose and triangle for face and handcut antlers. I will post pictures when I get the sample back if you want.
8. black marker, pencil, ruler
9. Roll of the magnet tape

Directions:
1. I just laid the papers out on the cookie sheet to see how I liked them. I left about 2 or 3" on the top for December then a thin strip of patterned paper and then my background for the calendar. On the bottom, there will be space left for another block of patterned paper and I used the same pattern for the thin strip on the bottom. (Hope that makes sense)
2. Next you trim all of the papers down to size. I used a corner rounder for the corners to match the curve on the cookie sheet.
3. Now before you glue anything down, you need to make the grid for the numbers to go on. I made four rows of seven. So measure your paper and divide it up evenly. Don't worry too much about this. My last row is a tad bigger than the rest. No one will ever know. I used a pencil first and measured both sides so that my lines would be straight. Then I went back over them with the ruler and a black thin tipped marker.
4. Next mod podge the back of the paper, place it on the cookie sheet and then another coat over the top. I did this in pieces. Just keep adding until it sticks. I even used the edge of my finger to push the paper down on the edges. Don't stress about this part...try to get the bubbles out. When it dries it will look much better.
5. Forgot to mention....BEFORE you Mod Podge add the header using either stickers, stamps or stencils. Then over the top.
6. Create your numbers using your various embellishments. Put magnet on the back.

That's all there is to it. It is time consuming. But so worth it. Ask if you have any questions or need clarification. Please share when you are done. Can't wait to see what you create!

Kade's "Flippers"

2007-10-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

Night time routine

putting on the slippers promptly

after the bath.

Putting them on MY nightstand

before he goes to sleep in MY bed.

He is so the boss of me.

And the Winner Is.....

2007-10-14T21:45:00.001-07:00

The one and only KimDuke....oneword!

Hope that made your night.

Now you can claim it when you come down for Thanksgiving.

WHOO HOO!

That was so much fun.

Thanks to ALL who left comments.

It was fun to read.

Those I know well and those that I've gotten to know through blogging.

Thanks Jennifer Reil and Heather Lemmon for posting

I will definitely be checking out your blogs.

Small world isn't it, even if you're clear across the world literally!

Sunee and Margaret take the plunge girls, get to blogging.

Proud of you for commenting.

And shea shea's mama, I would love if you shared a link to your blog.

The "how to" on the calendar will follow shortly.

It's easy!

Happy

2007-10-13T21:19:00.000-07:00

1. Happy that I have only purchased one bag of Halloween candy so far that we have handed out and shared with every child that has played at our house this past week. That is huge! Candy and me are not a good combo I will eat it all by myself.

2. Happy that I cancelled my appointment at the gym on Friday because I could not walk thanks to the lunges I did on Wednesday. I have muscles where I never knew I had them.

3. Happy for all the comments on my advent calendar giveaway. Can't wait to draw a name tomorrow.

4. Happy (and sad) that my photography class is over. Happy that I won't be so stressed to get assignments done. I can see improvements that have been made and many things that I have learned. It has been an amazing experience. I was becoming frustrated and overwhelmed with all of the information. Really happy about my last chat and being able to identify the things I still need to work on. I am determined so I will keep working.

5. Happy that the Halloween costumes arrived in the mail along with a big box of warm clothes from Old Navy for the kids. I LOVE online shopping!

6. Happy that we picked up these cute little pumpkins for the kids at the grocery.

7. Happy that we had a nice weekend....not too much drama, not too much pressure, just hanging out.

8. Happy that some scrapbook kits came at the end of this week. Started to clean off my scrap table. Been thinking about busting out the paper and glue. Sounds kinda fun.

Keef

2007-10-10T21:34:00.000-07:00

as in Keith.

That is one of Brandon's nicknames.

I know that it is so unrelated to his real name.

Isn't that always how nicknames go.

Anyways Steve started calling him "Keith with the teeth"

because really he does have some big chompers.

Well....Kade every once in awhile calls him Keef and then adds with the teef.

**I love this picture of him because I can't get good ones because he is constantly coming straight for my camera. His tongue, his look, it's so him. The crop is funky on it but the way I shot it was weird....but like I say it's a keeper because there are so few.

Shooting Stars

2007-10-10T15:00:00.000-07:00

"Mom Hurry! Look at that shooting star!"

Oh Kade, that's an airplane.

"Yeah," says Charlie..."shooting stars are only at night."

My body aches.

really

BAD

and I'm going back for more on Friday.

Such insanity. To think there are people who LIKE to workout.

And a Happy Birthday wish to my sister Candace.

It was fun to talk this morning er afternoon for you.

Hope that chocolate cake is delish. You really must share that recipe on your blog.

I miss you and think that you are awesome in many ways.

Have a happy birthday!

Christmas Giveaway

2007-10-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

I was asked to do a little craft for our RS Super Saturday coming up in November. I had started one of these little cookie sheet advent calendars for our family (which I still need to complete) and thought that I could simplify it for this day. Each of the daily pieces are stored on the back and pulled out each day until Christmas. I like how it is turning out. I'm not quite finished, but here is a sneak peek:

The thing is, I don't need two. So........

since I have never given anything away here on the old blog,

I thought why not to celebrate post number 486.

Random I know.

If you don't mind waiting until the end of November post a comment and you could be the lucky winner. I promise to get it to you before December so you can use it to countdown.

If you lurk....come out come out please!

My stat counter shows more people than are commenting.

I'd love to meet you.

You have until Sunday.

Get to commenting.

If you are Sunee or Margaret....

little hint, sign up at blogger, you can leave comments but you don't have to create your own blog. Although I'd be happy if you did.

Another Evening in the Backyard

2007-10-05T21:31:00.000-07:00

Kade has been dying to wear his coat. Well tonight since there was a breeze, we all had hoodies on. Kade thought it was appropriate to wear his thick coat that you would wear if going to the north pole. It really doesn't get much use here in the desert. He has been know to pull it out in the heat. He's getting better... it is getting closer to the right season.

Brandon enjoyed swinging. He never wants to leave that swing. Squawks when you pull him out.

Lauren and Kyle were getting along great swinging high and jumping off the swings. Well Kyle was jumping, Lauren was more conservative. We got proof on the camera of who was catching some air and who was not. Lauren was bummed that she wasn't doing it. Oh well, can't be good at everything!

I think the picture of Kade is my new favorite.

He Thinks

2007-10-04T22:19:00.000-07:00

all he has to do is go to the freezer and point and grunt and he'll get chocolate chips...

and he does get them for the good part of the day.

Now he thinks that he can have them whenever he wants a snack

or that they can replace his meals.

He is becoming quite the character.

This is what he does when he's done with me pointing the camera in his direction.

Love his little teeth. He's WAY too close to the lens.

Cute Halloween Cookies

2007-10-03T21:04:00.000-07:00

Did you see THESE CUTE COOKIES?
I think we may have to copy.

Art

2007-10-02T21:26:00.000-07:00

"Hey Mom, did you know that photographers are artists?"

Really?

"Yeah we are learning about Ansel Adams for our Art Quest this year. He took pictures with his camera."

Interesting....

She was telling me this as I was snapping away this evening.

Nothing new for me having the camera out.

Maybe she was telling me that I was an artist.

What a sweet girl.

2007-10-02T20:21:00.000-07:00

Dirty shirt, just got finished swinging, teasing me and wanting me to chase him because he is putting small rocks in his mouth, couple of bumps on the side of his head where he fell off the dining chair again, happy to be outside with the kids. This is my favorite of the day.....because it is so him.

I love that the kids are in the background.

His happy little world.

Catching Up

2007-10-02T18:41:00.000-07:00

with good friends, Jen and Cathy, from high school today. I don't see them very often....maybe once every year. It was nice to catch up. Seems like we always just pick up where we left off. Here's some pictures of their kids....Cathy's little guy Jackson and Jennifer's kids: Noah and Isaiah.

I Love

2007-10-01T12:20:00.000-07:00

1) LOST: We have been totally addicted. We just finished up season 1 and are ready for the next. We have to watch at least 3 episodes a night and that is causing me to loose sleep and computer time. But I cannot let Steve go on without me. We have been wondering how we will manage when we are caught up and season 3 begins. We may have withdrawals when we actually have to wait a week in between. Good stuff!

2) That we are riding bikes to school again. All of the kids love it. I love that I don't have to stop on the hills anymore. I just push straight through....good feeling. Tells me that the days at the gym are paying off.

3) The feeling after I workout. Still trying to be more consistent but I am making my training sessions and she is seriously working me.

4) I started Twilight. I haven't been able to give it my full attention because of #1, it's grabbed my attention though.

5) My most recent favorite snapshot. I used this one for one of my assignments last week. I know I've said it before those two are good little buds.

6) That the backyard got tidied up. Looks like a whole new space.

7) This BEAUTIFUL weather. Love the fall. Wish it was like this all year round.

8) That my carpets, rug and sectional/ottoman that is disgustingly dirty will be cleaned this Thursday morning. I cannot wait!

Busy Boy

2007-09-26T23:25:00.000-07:00

We finally got the pictures hung in Brandon's room this weekend.

Maybe I'll cover the mats with colored paper.

It looks really white...like it needs a punch of color.

This little guy is a handful.

We always forget how active our kids really are.

He is just like the others.

Into everything...busy, busy.

And it doesn't get better once they are older.

I suppose it is a good thing that he is so physically active

because that also means he has an active mind.

Some things he's into right now...

He loves to tease. He plays this game with Kade.

Grabs whatever Kade is working on and then

RUNS. Love the game of chase. Looks back to make sure someone is chasing him.

Then laughs hysterically while running with his chunky, little legs.

So cute.

The other thing that he loves lately is to be a monkey.

Steve pulls both the little boys up by their legs and they hang upside down together.

Since he refuses to speak and uses only grunting sounds, pointing or screaming to get his way,

we know he wants to be a monkey if he lays down on the ground and lifts his legs up and drops it to the ground.

Funny how he can get his point across without speaking.

Finally, he has this cute little shy look where he looks out of the corner of his eye

and will not look at you if he knows your attention is directed at him.

All of the cute things make up for the trouble he gets in each day.

We need to do some more childproofing.

There are some definite problem areas that drive me batty.

I'm sure once we have those areas under control, he will create new problems.

That's just the kind of kid he is.

By the way, Lauren found out that she got the part of Tall Alice.

Apparently there are three alice parts: regular Alice, small Alice and tall Alice.

Poppa and Grammie called to see if they could get her autograph.

That made her laugh!

One Less Tooth

2007-09-25T20:28:00.000-07:00

Kyle is one of the tallest in his class however, he has not lost many teeth.

Three to be exact.

We think that it is so funny that he is holding onto those top two.

They are so tiny in comparison to all the others.

He had a few loose ones.

Not terribly loose, just a little wiggly.

Today after school he excitedly pushes one of the bottom out with his tongue.

He informed me that he was working on it in library

and would finish pulling it out tonight at home

after he called Kason to come watch.

I instructed him to LEAVE IT ALONE!

He had already forced it to be as loose as it was.

His persistence paid off...

Let's just say tomorrow he will be receiving a visit from the tooth fairy.

Happy Dance

2007-09-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

I have been working on this all week....finally got close.

Backlighting is hard! So happy that this turned out.

Got a few more keepers and now I feel confident to try this some more.

Good feeling!

The lovely light fixture per your request.

Light

2007-09-22T21:43:00.000-07:00

Lauren was the most willing of all of my kids today.

I was practicing and experimenting with my camera and light.

She was getting tired and rested her chin on her knees,

this one ended up being my favorite.
She has been feeling like the odd man out lately.

She OFTEN complains about not having a sister to play with

and that Kyle ignores her and won't play what she wants to play.

I gave her a little TLC

which is usually all it takes.

We spent some time devising a plan for a minibook.

She listed 40 things about herself and she worked on the cover.

creating, playing and a little one on one time and she's good again.

We took care of some little projects that have needed to be done.

One of those was putting in a new light fixture over the table.

I wasn't too crazy about the selection at Lowe's and Home Depot,

but I was done with only one bulb working.

Turns out it looks much better in our house than I thought it did in the store.

And the light that it emits....

beautiful!

It seriously lights up our whole downstairs.

I mentioned how great it was.

Lauren said, "Oh that's just me letting off all that light" as she walked through turning the light off and then on when she returned.

Yes she is the superstar.

Funny though how some light can make me happy!

WHAT THE...?

2007-09-21T13:57:00.000-07:00

I had to steal Kyle's phrase....said with much emphasis today. I had a similar reaction as the man in this photo. It's not everyday you see a vehicle such as this. I was returning videos and parked my gigantic Suburban up next to a car that looked very much like this one. It is a very tiny car. Two seats and that's about all. Seems very unpractical to me....but we have a large family. It fits two people and maybe a soft drink to share. Need to bring something else, gonna have to hold it on your lap. Crazy!

I wonder how that car would hold up in an accident?

Typical After School

2007-09-20T22:58:00.000-07:00

attire for Kyle. Shirt off. I wonder if he will ever outgrow that. He has most recently been interested in learning how to play basketball better, so after school it is out to shoot some hoops. For the last couple of days he has been practicing roller blading as well. He isn't as balanced as Lauren is on the blades. And watch out...occasionally he puts the two together.

He was humoring me today, digging in Brandon's favorite mud hole

while I tried to get some harsh lit photos.

I kinda liked this one. Wish there wasn't so much crap in the background.

Been Busy

2007-09-20T22:41:00.000-07:00

I haven't been posting as much as I would like.

We have been busy:

*studying spelling words

*going to the gym (Dee sure did kick my butt or I should say abs cause that's what hurts the most)

*removing Brandon and the chairs he has pushed up to the kitchen countertops a bazillion times a day

*Having playgroups and driving to preschool

*doing laundry and grocery shopping

You know STUFF!

So an update:

Lauren made the play. She doesn't know which part she has but she is HAPPY!

Kyle is having a blast at wrestling...he thinks it is so cool.

Kade is loving preschool and his "homework"

and that Brandon is cutting some serious teeth along with getting into everything!

I have been trying to process and complete my photo assignment for this week. It's tough: direct, harsh lighting. My kids are not cooperating. This is what Kade does:

I really don't blame him....I need to go to another location and not use my kids!

I was directed to this website for saving various things from the web. I think that it is a fabulous idea when you just want to clip a portion of something so as not to forget. I cannot tell you how many times I have come across something wonderful, not bookmarked it and then cannot locate it again. Clipmarks will be so handy to keep little bits together and organized. I have been happily clipping information from my photography class...so I can refer back to it when the class is over :( Thought I'd share.

Secrets

2007-09-18T21:28:00.000-07:00

Carson and Kade do not get together often enough. When they do, they are pretty good little buds. Yesterday they were hiding behind the hedges at Poppa and Grammie's telling secrets and making plans to get the scary monster around the corner. During the week Kade will ask if Carson can come over and play. We just don't live close enough for that. The two have had to deal with just talking on the phone.

Lauren decided she wanted to audition for the play. They are doing Alice in Wonderland. They had to sing happy birthday to make sure they could hit the high part and then do a little reading from the script. I asked her how she thought she did. She said Great! How do you know? Well because Mrs. Jackson and Mrs. Goodman were smiling really big when I was trying out. Lauren is anxiously awaiting tomorrow morning's arrival because the cast list will be posted outside of the drama room.

Oh my gosh, it's like so high school musical-ish.

I Love

2007-09-17T21:00:00.000-07:00

I'm glad that Candace reminded me....
I love that we got to go visit Mom for her birthday. I love that it feels like home when we are all together. (I hate that not all of us were there, but this is a love list) That the cousins have fun together. Sometimes crazy, loud fun but fun. I love that Brandon loves Poppa. They all love Poppa but he is drawn to him. I love that the weather is starting to cool off finally, I love our shared journaling project that the kids and I have started....it is going to be PRICELESS! I love that they love passing secret letters between the two of us. I love to watch Lost. We never watched it when it was on TV so we have just started the series. I love to watch something good on TV. I love that I got to visit with friends this weekend and attempt a little scrapbooking. It was a good time.

He's got a new trick

2007-09-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

and he's proud of it!

Kids

2007-09-14T12:57:00.000-07:00

These kids didn't let a dead battery stop them...they used their muscles! Actually I haven't charged up the battery in a really long time. Let's just say Kade as a driver is a really scary thing. We'd kinda like to keep our patio furniture and the actual patio cover to remain attached to the house oh yeah and that brother of his....we sure would like him to stick around.

Lauren and Kyle must think we live on a farm....they have high hopes for these peach pits. After all, they did get the pumpkin plants to grow and a random corn stalk. Too bad the pumpkin plants scorched in the sun and they never reaped the rewards. They are saving these for the back planter. We'll see how they do.

So....

2007-09-13T14:06:00.000-07:00

Thanks girls for all the recommendations. I called and scheduled an appointment with Dee next week. Wish me luck, I'm gonna need it. Here's one of little Miss Mollie the only girl at play group. She doesn't seem to mind though. I have a few more. I'll share later.

Suggestions

2007-09-11T21:10:00.000-07:00

I signed up for a gym membership awhile back. I have not been once. Why does that scene intimidate me? Anyways during my sign up I added some personal training sessions. Dee, the trainer they assigned me to, keeps calling and leaving messages. I am avoiding her because really, she is gonna kick my butt! After contemplating the sad state of affairs in relation to my saggy body, I know I need to start somewhere. Making the cookies I am craving is not going to help. I really want to lose some of the roll that now resides around my midsection. I even thought that it might be fun to run. I cannot believe I typed that. How is running FUN? Anyways because I have this avoidance issue with the gym, maybe I could do some sort of tape at home. The only tape I know of is the old Jane Fonda that Mom used to do and we would crack up because she would say "Don't forget to breathe." Who is gonna forget to breathe? Anyways I don't want anything too serious where I won't be able to walk for a few days. Maybe something to just get myself conditioned and moving and feeling like I can actually walk through the gym doors and do a serious workout. So....what are your suggestions? Let's hear em.

While we are suggesting things, I need a new book. Finished up the Memory Keeper's Daughter. Any good reads? Thanks in advance.

The Drop Off Routine

2007-09-11T19:49:00.001-07:00

Everyday it's the same thing.

It is a long goodbye in the morning.

Once we have actually arrived at school,

the two big kids have to kiss everyone twice.

Kyle sometimes three.

Then they go to the front of the car and wave at the two boys still strapped in their seats.

Kade always reminds them and now it is part of the routine.

Brandon has started to join in the fun and it is quite cute
to see him waving and smiling at the kids.

Nice way to send them off each day I think.

Tribute

2007-09-10T20:15:00.000-07:00

Palm Mortuary has a display of 3,000 American Flags to represent those killed in 9/11. It is a tragically beautiful display. Each flag has a card with a name of a person, age, where they were located during the event and a brief couple of sentences about them. Overwhelming to see...it was just a sea of flags. Once in the middle, I was surrounded not able to see the end, and at the same time not able to capture the volume. Sad to know that the flags represented people. It was a very visual reminder and I am a visual gal. I need to take Lauren down there before the month is up. She had no idea, what the significance of tomorrow's date was. She was a preschooler and I distinctly remember driving her to school that morning after watching the news. Unbelievable! I cannot believe it has been so long.

I took a ton of pictures, I was trying to do my assignment. I totally overexposed the second one. Ironically, I like how the flags are positioned best in that one. Not what I was envisioning for a final outcome, but I kinda like the funkiness of it.

Big School Boy

2007-09-10T12:10:00.000-07:00

It's been so long I don't know where to begin.... all week when I was without my computer, I had lots to blog about in my head, and now nothing. Instead of catching up I'll start with this picture of Kade on his first day of Preschool. He gets up each morning and dresses himself, which is no surprise since he has to do EVERYTHING by himself. To the extreme. I have never had a child who has been so independent and insists upon doing small everyday things (like turning on lights, and opening the garage door) all by himself. If you interrupt the process by touching his head, or talking to him, or heaven forbid doing it....he has to clear it. Go back through and redo everything. So annoying! Anyways, he chose his outfit. I talked him into bringing his "library backpack" and he was happy to go until we got there. Then it was serious freak out!! When I went to get him he was a little chatterbox in the backseat. He couldn't wait to go back the next day. Halfway through telling me about his day he said, "Mom how was your day at school?" We filled him in on the things that Brandon and I did while he was at school. We have a little playgroup scheduled for the kids that are carpooled to preschool. That is going to be so good for Kade. He hardly misses the big kids and he feels important because he goes to school too. Ever since he's been going to playgroup he will randomly say "Mom, Can I have a friend over?" And so it begins...

I'm Back....

2007-09-09T07:35:00.000-07:00

5 days without my computer! Geek Squad cleaned it up and gave me a new CD/DVD drive. Still trying to work out all the kinks. Be back later tonight with an update.

Blah, Blah, Blah, BLAH

2007-09-03T21:14:00.000-07:00

feeling a bit unmotivated as of late...
Been on some sort of decluttering/reorganizing kick.
Hoping that the decluttering helps me clear my mind.
Right now my body is too tired to appreciate the organization.

I tried to sit down this weekend to scrapbook...
can you believe it has been SO LONG that I didn't really know what to do?
I was stuck creatively. Could not do it.
So maybe scrapbooking isn't my thing anymore?
Who knows?

Maybe I'm too overwhelmed with the amount of photos I need to print
and stories I need to tell, that I am avoiding it.
Case point, Kade never knew about his surgery when he was 3 months.
He didn't know that he had stitches.
He was very excited to see the photos and for me to tell him about that day.
I know that I didn't journal about it or scrap it at the time because it was traumatic...
but it's been 3 years. You'd think I'd at least have the photos in an album for him to look at.

I'm not gonna worry too much about it.
I scrap because I enjoy it....or did enjoy it.
I really need to invest in some albums to just display pictures and pull when I feel like scrapping. I LOVE this idea for scrapping....not limiting myself to one paper size. I really enjoy doing smaller pages. I did buy all the page protectors to start this.....maybe I just lack motivation?

Bought some supplies (bookboard and paper to cover the outside from Paper Source) for the school album I mentioned a couple of posts back. That is going to seriously clear out a bunch of paper under my bed. I get excited about those types of projects because they have a beginning and end and a real purpose. Not too much thinking involved.

The storytelling part is important to me. The everyday life. This blog helps me in that area. I feel like I am documenting the stuff of our life. I liked Ali Edwards' daily something idea. Really liked it. Thought I want to do that....but who am I kidding? I don't have the time for the creating part. I guess that's what holds me back. Just thinking out loud.....what if I did a daily something here. Probably wouldn't be daily because really who could be that committed? But occasionally a daily something to remember the little stories of our lives.

Just maybe I'll get out of my creative rut.
Even if I don't I'll have gobs of photos and the stories to go along with them...
and isn't that what scrapbooking is all about?
Won't you join me?

Assignment 3

2007-08-31T21:32:00.000-07:00

Got to work a bit with aperture this time...

learned a lot that I didn't know or realize.

Mainly that you don't have to shoot with your aperture wide open in order to get a nice blur in the background....bike f1.8, hydrant f11

Still chewing on some of the info.

Hoping to add to my knowledge base and put it into practice.

Here are a couple of my favorites.

I Love...

2007-08-30T22:17:00.000-07:00

* That I finished my assignment for my photo class before my chat tonight. Was feeling pretty overwhelmed by all the information that is coming my way. Not feeling any photo love lately. Feel much better after the one on one chat tonight....ready to pick up the camera tomorrow and try some more.

* Honey Bunches of Oats. I have never in my life tasted this cereal. It is pure yumminess. I have purchased it on occasion for others in the family, but it was just sitting there tonight, and sometimes a bowl of cereal is just the snack a girl needs at night. Tried it SO HAPPY I did!

* That the kids got to sleep before 9:30 tonight. We are getting back into the routine. LOVE that.

* Found this wonderful school album idea for storing school papers and things. I need to try that or file it away for a time when I have more time. HaHa!

* That Kyle finally decided that he wants to do some wrestling. Signed him up for a class at the YMCA. Happy that he's happy.

* That Steve went out and bought a basketball and hoop because Kyle has been upset that he doesn't know how to play. He wants to play at school, but doesn't think he's good enough. Steve took him to Target last night. Made his night! He is so excited and I hope that he feels more confident after playing at home for awhile.

* That Lauren is practicing her piano without any nagging from me. That she almost knows how to play Book of Mormon Stories for the upcoming Primary Program. That is so cool.

* That the weather is beginning to cool off. Fall is my favorite.

* That I have a date for tomorrow night....no plans yet, but a date!

* That I got the Primary newsletter done before Saturday night.

* That it is a three day weekend....hoping to maybe take a little family excursion (Mt. Charleston or Red Rock?)

* This photo of Brandon (Lauren put name tags on the boys, part of her playing school routine) It is so him...dirty toes, chunky little thighs and his tongue sticking out.