Marie's Musings

New Year's Eve and Eran's Birthday

2009-12-31T20:09:00.002-07:00

It's been quite a while since I've "blogged". It's tough to remember to do this when you are a student and a full time wife and mother. So to be quick, Thanksgiving was fun. We went to my parents house and enjoyed a nice big turkey and lots of family time. Christmas was also spent at my parents house. My mom bought all the children their Christmas Eve Pajamas and a DVD. The children had a blast! Then on Christmas day, after the opening of several gifts, we had dinner at our place with my parents.

Now, today, is New Year's Eve. It's also Eran's 10th birthday. I took her and a few friends bowling and we had a blast! it's pretty sad when your 3-year-old daughter can beat you at bowling...the crazy little girl got a strike! She didn't beat me by much...87 to 79. I blame it on the cold. Normally I'd bowl a 130 or higher and I still blame it on the cold. And the greasy fingers from eating the pizza. :)

Welcome Joshua Daaron!

2009-11-04T10:57:00.002-07:00

On Sunday, November 1, Joshua Daaron was born into this world. My sister and her husband had their little boy at 3:55 am via emergency C-Section. He weighed in at 5 pounds 10 ounces and was 20 inches long. He is healthy and beautiful!

Happy Anniversary!

2009-10-17T07:45:00.003-06:00

Just a quick note to tell my honey that I love him dearly. We've been through a lot and the road to a better life continues, but as long as we stick together and keep Heavenly Father in our lives, we will get through. I love you!

The Flu Bug Has Left The House!

2009-09-30T20:09:00.004-06:00

The kids have all been sick lately. Emma started with the flu Saturday night. We were up until 4 am before she could finally sleep. Then Grady started in with it at 5:30 am. No sleep for mom that night! Sunday night, Eran started in with it, then Payge got it Monday night. It was awful! Emma just barely got over it and was finally able to start eating again. I ended up coming home from school on Monday night because Grady called me. Emma was in complete hysterics. I could hear her in the background so of course, mom-instincts kicked in and I came home. Serves me right for leaving while she was sleeping.

It's so hard to believe that tomorrow is October all ready! That means in 2 months it will be Christmas. Time for us to stress over gifts for the kids again. Ugh! I love the holidays, but they are such a stressful time for us. I'm looking forward to when school is over and we actually have money to give the kids a Christmas that they deserve.

Weigh In Day

2009-09-19T07:24:00.003-06:00

One week ago today I started doing the South Beach Diet...again...and I've had a total weight loss of 5.9 pounds! I can't even tell you how good it was to get on that scale and see that I've lost! That also means that I have 24.9 pounds to go to reach my 30 pounds in 3 months! Even though there were a few times I cheated...my neighbor brought over homemade cookies and I couldn't NOT eat one. Payge brought home brownies yesterday after she went to practice for her Primary Sharing Time for tomorrow. And, of course, I have a huge weakness for M&M's and since we had this container of Trail Mix, I ate some of that too. But now that all of that is gone, I am able to really concentrate on this diet a lot harder.

First Day Of Preschool

2009-09-14T13:43:00.003-06:00

Today was Payge and Emma's first day of Preschool. Payge knew what to expect, but Emma seemed to be lost. I was filling out a check for Emma's pictures when I heard her, "Miss Teacher? Do you know where my mommy is?" Talk about heart-wrenching! I wanted to pick her up and squeeze her and love her! It was tough for me to leave her. After all, she is my baby! When I picked her up after school, she had a big grin on her face and was all smiles and happy. Seeing that she had a wonderful first day made me feel so much better. Maybe tomorrow I'll be able to actually concentrate on my own classes and not worry about her so much.

Head Start

2009-09-09T16:18:00.001-06:00

This afternoon Grady and I took Payge and Emma to their Head Start classrooms to meet their teachers. The girls are thrilled to be starting pre-school on Monday. Poor Emma didn't want to leave. She cried when we were done filling out registration papers and we had to promise her that she would be going back on Monday before she would settle down. It's going to be nice and quiet around here in the mornings. Grady will have plenty of time to get the cleaning done with no one home every morning!!

30 in 3

2009-09-06T09:06:00.003-06:00

I have once again, and yes I mean once again, decided that I need to drop a few pounds. SO...I have given myself the challenge to lose 30 pounds in 3 months. If you have any suggestions on actually STICKING to a diet while in college...PLEASE HELP!!

Homer-isms

2009-08-24T11:51:00.008-06:00

I was watching "The Simpsons" last night and started thinking of all the things that Homer says that cracks me up and decided to share them with you. (I know there are several, but I picked 10 of my most favorites!)

1. "No,please don't eat me. I have a wife and kids,eat them."
2. "Press any key to continue, where's the any key?"
3. "Oh, yeah, what are you gonna do? Release the dogs? Or the bees? Or the dogs with bees in their mouth and when they bark, they shoot bees at you?"
4. "I hope I didn't brain my damage..."
5. "So a few people won't get a few letters, boo hoo! You know the kind of stuff people write: "Dear somebody you never heard of, how was so and so? Blah-blah-blah-blah-blah-blah-blah, Yours Truly, Some Bozo." Big loss!"
6. "I saw weird stuff in that place last night. Weird, strange, sick, twisted, eerie, godless, evil stuff... and I want in."
7. "Kids, you tried your best and you failed miserably. The lesson is, never try."
8. "Maybe, just once, someone will call me 'Sir' without adding, 'You're making a scene.'"
9. "When I look at the smiles on all the children's faces, I just know they're about to jab me with something."
10. "Homer no function beer well without."

Oquirrh Mountain Temple Dedication

2009-08-23T13:16:00.004-06:00

This morning I took Grady to the Dedication of the Oquirrh Mountain Temple. He lasted longer than Eran did, but near the end when President Monson was doing the dedication, he had fallen asleep and was snoring. I know he didn't understand much of it, but it'll be a part of him forever.

Fish Lake 2009

2009-08-23T13:04:00.010-06:00

Once I was done with finals, we decided to take off and go camping at Fish Lake with my parents. It was a lot of fun and a much needed vacation. We threw rocks in the lake, played in the stream, and even saw some deer that were in the woods behind my parents campground. There was about 7 or 8 deer, most of them being buck and about 2 doe. My dad and I followed them to get some pictures of them. Emma had a blast making ice cream when my dad wasn't using the hand crank.

This is the best picture that I got of the deer. It's only one of the many, but I must say, I did a good job of getting this one.

Payge and Emma throwing rocks in the lake.

We let Eran and Grady roast their own hot dogs.

At the stream

I don't think I've seen a more dirty little girl in my life. This was taken after being at camp for a couple of hours.

Grady's Baptism

2009-08-23T13:01:00.003-06:00

On August 8, 2009 my little boy was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I am so proud of him and his decision to be baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. He's growing up so fast! I love you, son!

Altared Plans by Rebecca Cornish Talley

2009-07-13T09:15:00.002-06:00

This weekend I was able to sit down and read "Altared Plans" by Rebecca Cornish Talley. It was a quick and easy read and it was so hard to put down and do other things that needed to be done. Grady, my husband, read it before I even had a chance to crack it open to the first page. It was nice to see him read something other than a magazine!

"Altared Plans" is about a young woman by the name of Caitlyn, who arrived at the Temple on the day of her wedding to find out that the love of her life was on an airplane to be with someone else. Devastated and torn apart she vowed she would never fall in love.

Upon returning to BYU, she is called to be the mom of her FHE group where she meets the father, Travis. Refusing to let herself fall in love again, she tags Travis as "annoying" but finds that she can't keep her mind off him and concentrate on her studies. Can her roommate, Brittany, help her to see that Travis is not like her first love? In order to find out, you need to read this book. Out of 5 stars, I give this book a 6!

I Wouldn't Make It

2009-06-05T12:39:00.004-06:00

I was in the shower the other day, and realized that I wouldn't make it as a pioneer. I have no problem with washing laundry in the streams, or getting up early and going to bed late, or sewing, or teaching the kids. No problem at all! But, to have to only shower once or twice a month??? I can't do that! If I don't shower every day, I just feel so gross and disgusting! How could these women make it, after working so hard in the hot summers, with long sleeved dresses, and bonnets, and not take a shower? Yuck! I give these women 2 thumbs up for being able to go so long without bathing. They are stronger than I am!

Back To School

2009-05-26T12:47:00.002-06:00

School started for me again last week. It's not so bad, however I have decided that I really don't like chemistry that much. That is one class that I can't wait to get rid of.

Finals Are Finally Final!

2009-05-05T09:44:00.007-06:00

This is me before finals.

This is me AFTER finals.

One more time...

BEFORE

AFTER

Any questions?

Date!

2009-05-02T12:29:00.004-06:00

It has been SO long since Grady and I have been on a date! So, today we are going out for my birthday, even though my birthday isn't until next week. We decided to go with a really good friend of mine and her hubby and we are going to see Wolverine. Yes, I am an X-men fan. We currently own all 3 of the X-Men movies, and I enjoy watching each one, one after the other. As well as some other movies that really catch my eye (i.e. Harry Potter, Avatar: The Last Airbender - which I know is not a movie, but I love watching it anyway! - and I know there's more, I just can't think of any right now.)

My sister is taking me out next Friday, and then on Saturday we are hoping to take the kids downtown to Temple Square to play with our new camera and take pictures of the kids. It's going to be SO much fun!

Oh yes, and I know this off the subject, but I had to say...Emma and I were watching TV the other day and this commercial came on for Playtex Gentle Glide Tampons. For those of you who don't know, Emma is 2 going on 3 this June. Out of the blue, she jumps up and says, "Mom! I want that for my birthday!" After stifling a laugh I asked her why, and she said, "So I can dance around and twirl like they are!" HA HA HA! Gotta love kids!

I never thought I'd be one to post a picture of Hugh Jackman with a picture of Tampons! Oops!

Bathroom Ghost

2009-04-15T10:58:00.004-06:00

It never fails. I get out of class, and hit the the little girls room to take care of business. I go to the sink, push the lever to get some soap on my hands. I stick my hands under the faucet to turn on the water, and instead of just that one sink coming on, they all come on! And it's not just once in a while. It's every time! And it seems to only happen to me. There could be other girls in the bathroom, and when they wash their hands. Nothing. I put my hands under, and again, all the sinks come on! Coincidence? I think not! I think the college has their own version of Moaning Myrtle that only seems to like to follow me. But on the upside, SLCC's Moaning Myrtle doesn't moan. Nor does he/she make their presence known, until I wash my hands...Maybe I just better hold my business until I get home from now on...

Sick

2009-04-14T22:26:00.003-06:00

Poor Grady is sick. He's been coughing for the last few days. Finally, tonight I took him in to First Med. He doesn't have the flu, but he has a touch of bronchitis. I don't know who it's worse for. Him or me? He's up all night coughing and wheezing. I feel bad for him. Hope you feel better love!

3 More Weeks

2009-04-06T20:16:00.002-06:00

There is only 3 more weeks left until the semester ends. After that, it's a week of finals, and then...I'm out of school for 2 weeks so I can start all over again! Only this time, I get to start the fun biology and chemistry classes. I have also decided that I'm going to end with my Associates in Health Sciences, work for 2 years, then go back to school for my Bachelor's. That way...my job can pay for me to go to school. I think it's a good idea, don't you?

Draper Temple Dedication (via Satellite)

2009-03-23T19:24:00.005-06:00

Yesterday I took Eran to the Draper Temple Dedication with my mom and dad. Before we left to go to the Stake Center, my mom and I were telling her that in a few short years (3 to be exact) she'd get to have the chance to go do baptisms for the dead. I could see the confusion written across her face, and if her head was see through, I know I'd be able to see the wheels turning in there. After a few short minutes, she finally looked at me and asked, "Mom? When I go do baptisms for the dead, do I have to hold a dead person in my arms?" My mom and I laughed hysterically and then explained to her how to works. With a look of relief on her face she asked, "So there's no dead people floating in the water either? Right?" The kinds of questions that a 9-year-old can come up with are just amazing! I don't think I would have ever thought about that at her age!

The dedication was wonderful. After it was over, Eran informed me that it was too long, and then couldn't figure out why my mom, dad and I were crying. Maybe she was too young to understand, but at least it's something she won't forget. Even if to her it was long and boring.

DJ Bawden

2009-03-12T21:29:00.002-06:00

Last night I had the pleasure of meeting DJ Bawden. For those of you who don't know who he is, he's a sculptor that has done many projects of Joseph Smith. He had some very funny stories, but also some extremely funny ones. My favorites were when he was asked by the prophet to do a sculpture and he didn't have the money to bronze it, how a catholic hospital in Texas would call and offer him a job to do a sculpture of Jesus for the main foyer. Every time he needed money to make something for the Mormon church, the Catholic hospitals in Texas would call him and ask him to a sculpture of Jesus. He became known in Texas as the Catholic Sculptor. Even though he's a Mormon.
If you ever get a chance to go hear him speak, please do so. You will not walk away disappointed. I know I wasn't.

Long Time, No Write

2009-02-28T12:56:00.002-07:00

Once again, it has been a while since I've posted anything. School is going well. So far, I'm getting straight A's. I'm looking forward to having Spring Break in about 2 weeks. The kids are happy and well. Emma has adjusted to my being gone every morning quite well. We have decided to put our kids in a charter school next year. We are excited for that. It's going to be good for them.
Grady had his day in court almost a month ago. The judge has deemed him as fully disabled, so it's going to be nice to finally get some money coming in. We just have to wait for it to come in.
Other than that, I'm just busy with school. I forgot how time consuming it is, but like I said. I am loving it!

Busy As A Bee

2009-01-29T15:50:00.003-07:00

This is how I've been feeling the last few weeks, and it just seems to be getting worse and worse. Sad thing is, I'm actually loving it!

Grady has his court date on Wednesday, and we are worried and nervous about it. Just pray for us so that it all goes okay.

The kids are doing well, even though they have been driving me insane today. I love them, but right now I'm ready to send them to bed.

First Week Is Behind Me

2009-01-18T17:26:00.002-07:00

I made it through my first week of school without any problems. It's been a fun experience being in school. I don't think I could do it without all the help and support from family and friends, so I want to thank them for it. And, ending this first week of school, I came home with TONS of homework to do. I did most of it Friday night, but there's always that one assignment that you just can't bring yourself to do. And that's how my history assignment has been. I just can't get myself motivated to do it. Oh well. Guess if I want to pass, I better get to it!

I Started!

2009-01-13T16:58:00.002-07:00

No, my monthly visitor has not finally come if that's what you were thinking. I mean, I started at SLCC yesterday! After today I have taken all 4 of my classes for the first time, and I think this is going to be a lot easier for me than it would have been had I gone 10 years ago. I really enjoyed it, my professors are great, and the classes are a blast. At least, so far. I mean, I have only gone for 2 days and I have MANY days ahead of me, but I'm loving it so far!

One Last Night O' Fun

2009-01-08T13:10:00.003-07:00

Tonight a bunch of us are going bowling. I keep telling Grady that it's my one-last-night-of-fun-with-the-girls-before-school-starts night. He just laughs at me. The other day I went and picked up my books. for 4 classes, I have about 10 books total. My history class alone, as 3 books. What am I getting myself into?!? Actually, I'm pretty excited to start. I was talking with Payge's teachers today and they told me how much easier it is to go to college later in your life. When I asked why, one of them told me, "Because most people that go straight out of high school, end up not using their degree. Besides, my kids are more prone to doing homework when they see mommy sitting at the table doing it with them." Whether that statement is true or not, I have NO FRICKIN' CLUE! However, it's still going to be a totally awesome fun night with some of my girls!

Happy 9th Birthday Eran!

2009-01-02T16:43:00.005-07:00

Eran's birthday is on New Year's Eve. This year, she opted on having another sleepover party, only I got smart this time. I only allowed her to invite 4 friends. Not 9 like last year! She had a lot of fun and got quite some nice presents. Her dad and I gave her little camerathat only takes 40 pictures, but she loves it. It's hard to believe she's 9 and next summer we are going to have another baptism. They grow up so fast!

We also got a new addition to the family yesterday. He's a guinea pig that's named Ding Dong. The kids just love him. Maybe a little too much though.

Christmas Pictures...FINALLY!

2008-12-30T11:41:00.012-07:00

Well, here's some pictures of our trip to California for Christmas. Grady's dad was Santa at the ward Christmas party. The kids started calling him "Boppy Claus" and he got a big kick out of it. Great Grandma's not doing very well. She's going down hill fast, so I'm glad we were able to see her because we don't know when we'll see her again. It was a blast, but it's so good to be home. In the words of Dorothy, "There's no place like home!"

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T12:27:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! I hope that you were able to experience the joys of family, food and fun! And always remember the reason for Christmas is only about one gift, and that's the birth of our dear Savior.

Last night the kids acted out the manger scene before we went to bed. It was such a neat experience for them, and they really enjoyed it.

Have a wonderful holiday! We love you!

PS. I will be posting pictures of our adventures here as soon as we get home on Saturday!!

Lights At Temple Square

2008-12-16T09:36:00.012-07:00

Last night, a bunch of us from the ward went downtown and saw the lights at Temple Square. It was a blast , even though we had to leave early because Grady got sick. Enjoy the pictures!

This is a picture of ALL the kids that were there with us.
It was crazy, but we all had fun!

It's Official

2008-12-08T09:14:00.001-07:00

Last night, Grady and I stayed up until midnight, just so I can...you guessed it...register for my classes online! I am officially going to college! YEAH! I appreciate the fact that Grady stayed up with me so late. Otherwise, I don't think I would have made it and then I wouldn't have gotten the classes that I need. I love you babe!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T08:45:00.003-07:00

Just wanted to wish all my friends and family a Happy Thanksgiving and tell you all that I am thankful for each and every one of you! There's so many things to be grateful for, and so many blessings that are in store for us all!

I'm thankful for a roof over my head, food on the table (as long as it's good, wholesome, nutritious food so I don't gain back the 30 pounds I've lost!), friends and family, The Book of Mormon, the Gospel, and of course, Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father.

We love each and every one of you and wish you a wonderful day!

May your stuffing be tasty, may your turkey be plump,
May your potatoes 'n gravy have nary a lump,
May your yams be delicious,
May your pies take the prize,
May your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off of your thighs!

My Reason For Not Posting

2008-11-20T16:24:00.002-07:00

I know it's been a long time since I posted, and this is the reason why...I've been playing a game called "Little Big Planet" and for those of you who have a PS3, I really, really, really suggest you get this game if you don't have it all ready. And if you don't own a PS3 and have about $500 stashed away somewhere, go buy one, and make sure you buy this game. You will NOT be sorry.

That's not actually the only reason I've been MIA. I've also been watching my neighbor's girls while they are off track. I won't be posting much between now and December 5th. Sorry to disappoint you.

If Dr. Seuss Wrote The Book Of Mormon

2008-11-08T11:24:00.006-07:00

I got this email from my father-in-law and it was so hilarious that I had to share it with everyone else. Who says that Mormon's don't have a sense of humor?!?

Nephi: Of goodly parents I was born;
I've never drunk, I've never sworn.
This is Lehi, he's my dad;
Laman, Lemuel, they are bad.
And who is this? Why this is Sam!
Sam: Yes, this is Sam; Sam I am.
Laman: That Sam I am, that Sam I am,
I do not like that Sam I am!
Sam: In a tent, my father dwelt...
Laman: And it's so hot, I think I'll melt.
Lemuel: Our father's brain is out of whack.
Laman: Yeah, it's too hot, I'm going back.
Lehi: Then go and get the plates, my dear.
Laman: On second thought, I'm staying here.
Nephi: You said you'd leave and go away,
Now all you want to do is stay?
Lemuel: That Nephi always gets his way!
Laman: Here we are in this damp cave.
Sam: We would not be here if you'd behave.
Nephi: I will go and I will do.
There's the angel, that's my cue!
Laban's had too much to drink;
Now he'll lose his head, I think.
Nephi: Look what I found: a brother from the quorum.
Sam: We will take him home; we will call him Zoram.
Laman: Our gold and silver we have spent.
I do not like it in this tent.
Lemuel: I cannot read the Liahona;
I must have drunk too much Corona.
Laman: We hate it here, we have no lives.
Lehi: Then go back to the city and get some wives.
Lehi: A tree, a tree, I see a tree!!
The fruit is white; the fruit is free!
A floating building, could it be?
Why do they laugh and stare at me?
Laman, Lemuel, come and see!
Laman: We will not eat your precious fruit.
Lemuel: We will not wear a tie and suit.
Laman: We will not help you build your boat.
Lemuel: We do not think that it will float.
Laman: No not this boat, it will not float,
Not even in a shallow moat!
I do not care what Nephi wrote.
Lemuel: We will not eat your fruit I say!
Laman: We will not eat it on a tray.
Lemuel: And we won't eat it in a tent,
Not even if your clothes you rent!
Laman: We'd rather have a can of spam.
L&L: We will not eat it, Sam I am!
Sam: You do not like it, so you say.
Try it, try it, and you may.
Try it and you may I say!
Laman: Sam, if you will let us be,
We will try it, you will see!
L&L: Say, we like this fruit of life!
Sorry that we caused such strife.
You've saved us from an awful jam;
Thank you, thank you, Sam I am!

SLCC Orientation

2008-11-08T09:30:00.002-07:00

So, yesterday I went to orientation for the college. I was the first one there, so thinking that the class was going to be full, I got the seat close enough that I could see the screen and be able to "absorb" more information if I sat where I did. Turns out, there was only 4 people that showed up. Me, and 3 others.

It was very...interesting. The woman doing the orientation asked us if we could guess where she was from. One person said China. One person said Japan. She laughed and said she was from Indonesia, and she also said that she was "too fat" to be Japanese. The guy that guessed Japan, was so embarrassed that he said she wasn't too fat, just too tall. Poor guy didn't say much the rest of the class.

Anyway, after an hour and a half of listening and asking questions and blah, blah, blah...I walked away from there with a pounding headache. I decided if that was what it was going to be like for me for the next 4 years, I'm going to need to invest a lot of money into Advil or Tylenol, just so that I can survive!

Election Day

2008-11-04T09:19:00.001-07:00

Did you?

Halloween

2008-11-01T10:04:00.003-06:00

Here is our Halloween picture for the year. The kids had a blast. We went to my mom's work for her lunch break and the kids walked around to everyone there. Some people gave them full size candy bars, and even those big things of Teddy Grahams and Chips Ahoy! cookies. Ugh! Tummy aches waiting to happen!

Last night they wanted to go around our apartments, so I took them out. They hit all the buildings in our ward, and even though not many people were handing out candy, they still got tons of candy again. More tummy aches waiting to happen. When we got home, we watched Avatar, the Last Airbender (I'm a geek, I know!) and then went to bed.

Kids woke up this morning, and the first thing they wanted...CANDY! If I had gotten up and not stayed in bed, they would have had blueberry pancakes, but since I was being lazy, Daddy let them have candy for breakfast. Lucky kids!

Who Knew?

2008-10-27T16:31:00.003-06:00

For those of you who knew how much of a pain it was to get ready for college and didn't tell me...YOU ARE GROUNDED!

Seriously though! I had NO idea how much stuff you had to go through to go to college! And it's just the community college! I applied for financial aid, applied to the school, went in and did my placement test (which was horrible...especially my math, but I expected that...I was never good at math), talked to a counselor and got a "Course Planner" filled out for the next 2 years, got a letter from SLCC saying that I was missing this paper, and that paper and I needed to take in my diploma. So, after I got Eran from school, I ran back to the college, filled out this paper and that paper, gave him my diploma, and blah, blah, blah and now I have to go to orientation, then in December register for my classes. Whew! Is anyone else blue in the face?!? That's hard to say all in one breath!

I am excited to go back though. I wish I had done it after graduating from good ol' WJ High and used those scholarships I had to the U of U. But, live and learn, right? I'm doing it now, and now is better than never!

Primary Halloween Night

2008-10-23T10:12:00.004-06:00

Last night we had our Primary Halloween activity. It was such a blast! They had games such as a Pumpkin Walk, Pumpkin Seed Spitting (which I believe my son got the farthest on that one!) and they even did a Spook Alley at one end of the building. Eran went through it and came out crying because it scared her so bad. Grady went through and came out laughing. Payge refused to go through. She got to the door and ran back to her daddy. Emma laughed at it. The only part she pointed at and said, "Ooh! Scary!" was someone dressed up as this really, freaky, freaky clown. One guy told her he lost his snake and pulled a string and this rubber snake came up behind her and I thought she'd get scared. Nope. She started hitting the snake and saying, "Look Mommy! A snake!" Our Stake President was there with 2 of his grandkids. I've never seen a man take so many pictures! WOW!

Eran (A.K.A. Midnight Fairy)
I don't know what that circle is by her, unless it was a ghost.

Grady (A.K.A. Jeff Gordon)Payge(A.K.A. Fairy Princess Butterfly)Emma (A.K.A. Tinkerbell)
Or as she calls her, Ti-Ti-BellI was trying to get Emma to come back to me, but she decided to go the other way, so I got a picture of her Tink Wings.

The Sweetest Words From A Child

2008-10-22T10:23:00.005-06:00

I realize that I've all ready done a blog today, but I had to post a blog on the sweetest words that a child can say to a Mother.

Now I'm sure most of you are thinking, "I love you" is what I was going to say. But no. The sweetest words to ever hit a Mom's ears are, "I need to go potty".

When your baby finally tells you that they want to use the potty, you feel like jumping for joy and singing the Hallelujah Chorus!

It's a big day in a Mom's life, when you can walk into your local Walmart and skip the diaper/pull-up department and save that extra $15 - $20 each week by NOT having to buy those things for your child. Instead, you get to buy cute little panties for your little girl that have Dora the Explorer on them, or Princesses, or for little boys, you get to buy the boxer briefs (that's all my son wears, he doesn't like "tighty-whities") with Disney/Pixar's Cars, or Batman or Spiderman on them. Of course, it also means more laundry, but doing more laundry is worth have a child go a whole day without making a mess in their pants that you, as the parent, get to clean up.

Important Decision Made

2008-10-22T08:49:00.004-06:00

The last few weeks I've been doing some serious, and I do mean serious, thinking and praying and fasting and finally, FINALLY, I got an answer that I'm satisfied with. In the even that Grady is not ever going to be able to go back to work, or get his health back, or whatever it may be, I have made the decision to go back to College. I met with someone over here on the campus on Monday, filled out an application for SLCC and for FAFSA, and will get an answer for it sometime next week. Here's hoping I can start soon! I'm going to transfer to the U of U after I get my Associates in Nursing, and get my Bachelor's from them.

The best thing is, I have very supportive friends and neighbors, who have offered to pick up kids and take them to/from school, babysit them at night as needed, and I have accepted every offer of it. I'm no dummy! :)

Happy 10th!

2008-10-17T08:38:00.002-06:00

Happy 10th Anniversary to us! It's hard to believe that 10 years ago today, we were married for time and all eternity in the Mt. Timp. Temple. (And, I was about 50 pounds lighter...but I'm working on that!)

To celebrate, we decided to send the kids off for the entire night...YAY!...and we are going to watch a movie and eat Taco Bell.

Now, the story behind Taco Bell. I'm not a big fan of Taco Bell, but after we got out of the ceremony, we were starving. So, after we went home for a few minutes, we walked down the street to Taco Bell and had our first meal as husband and wife. Corny, I know.

Grady, I just want you to know that I love you, and I cherish you and I've never been so happy in my life than when I'm with you. You are my eternal companion for years and eternities to come.

Daaron and Nikki Bleyl - October 11, 2008

2008-10-12T16:18:00.023-06:00

Nikki's wedding is FINALLY over with! I do have to admit, it was a lot of fun, and not just for the kids. There was dancing, and dinner, and it was just, well, fun! Nikki looked gorgeous, and Daaron wasn't so bad himself. It was a long night, and Emma fell asleep in my dad's arms while he was dancing with her right before we left. Payge was a flower girl, and she did a wonderful job of spreading out the petals. Emma screamed so much that she finally came and stood with me in the wedding line. All in all, it was nice to see family I haven't seen in a long time. Craig and his son came from Idaho. His wife, Pepper, had other things going on that she couldn't get out of. And at the end of it all, I got myself another new niece, Mallori, and a new nephew, Eric. But best of all, Nikki has someone that is so good to her and treats her wonderfully. Something we've been hoping for her for a long time. And I know, I posted a lot of pictures, but it was a wedding! A big, huge PAR-TAY!!!

Nikki and Daaron Bleyl after the ceremony

Eric and Nikki

Dad, Nikki, Daaron and Mom

Chelsey, Nikki, Daaron, Mallori and Eric...One big, happy family at last!

Nikki almost passed out from lack of eating all day

Mom and Grady dancing

Daaron and Nikki's first dance as husband and wife

Emma and my dad dancing

The traditional cake-in-the-face moment

Nikki dancing with Eran

Wedding Bliss

2008-10-10T09:21:00.004-06:00

Tomorrow is Nikki's big day! She's finally getting married, and to someone that we all love and who loves her and treats her the way she needs to be treated.

Helping her with her wedding reminded me of how lucky I am to have Grady. Even if his hobbies are quite pricey, I still love the cute lug! Next week is our 10th Anniversary. It's hard to believe that 10 years and 4 kids ago, we were married in the Mt. Timpanogas Temple. In fact, today marks an anniversary as well. Ten years ago today, I got my endowments out in the Salt Lake Temple.

Time sure flies when you are having fun!

Brilliante WeBlog Award

2008-10-07T17:24:00.002-06:00

I don't know why Brittany gave me this. I don't think my blog is all that brilliant, but I'll say a gracious thank you anyway. Thank you!

Here are the rules: I have to answer the following questions with one word answers and one word only! Then I must pass it on to seven others!

This award comes with a list of questions:

1. Where is your cell phone? POCKET

2. Where is your significant other? ROOM

3. Your hair color? BROWN

4. Your mother? SHARRON

5. Your father? IVAN

6. Your favorite thing? GRADY (Sorry, but he is!)

7. Your dream last night? STEVENTYLER

8. Your dream/goal? SCHOOL

9. The room you're in? MINE

10. Your hobby? MAID

11. Your fear? DROWING (I agree Brittany!!!)

12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? GRADUATED

13. Where were you last night? HOME

14. What you're not? SKINNY

15. One of your wish-list items? HOUSE

16. Where you grew up? UTAH

17. The last thing you did? SHEETS

18. What are you wearing? SHIRT

19. Your TV? NEW

20. Your pet(s)? NONE

21. Your computer? SUCKS

22. Your mood? TIRED

23. Missing someone? ALWAYS

24. Your car? DIRTY

25. Something you're not wearing? SHOES

26. Favorite store? GAMESTOP

27. Your summer? HOT

28. Love someone? ALWAYS

29. Your favorite color? PURPLE

30. When is the last time you laughed? AFTERNOON

31. Last time you cried? WEEK

I'm supposed to pick 7 people, but I don't think I have 7 people that even read my blog, so do it if you want, otherwise, whatever!

First Day of Pre-School

2008-09-29T13:30:00.006-06:00

Payge started Pre-School today! It was so strange to have only one child home for 3.5 hours, but at the same time, it was HEAVEN! I was able to get things done! Well, not really. I laid on the floor and watched movies with Emma and did my Word Searches. LOL

She seemed to have had a good day. When I picked her up, she started crying. I thought she was going to tell me she missed me, but no. She cried because she had fallen down and hurt her knees. Who am I to think that my little girl actually missed me?!? She did say she doesn't want to go back tomorrow, but I convinced her that falling down once is no reason to stay home from school and she needs to go back tomorrow. Reluctantly, she agreed.

Waiting for the doors to open

Showing off her artwork after school

SBD

2008-09-26T13:48:00.006-06:00

Thanks to my long-time friend, Brittany, (since Mrs. Henrie's 3rd grade class where we got in trouble the first day of school for talking to Eli Sutton too much!) I have decided to start the SBD, or for those of you who don't know what it is, the South Beach Diet. I tried it this week, and did pretty good, but decided that my official start date will be on Monday, when I can really get into it and get the right foods etc.

I ordered the book online at amazon.com and it cost me more to ship it than it did to buy the book. The book itself was a penny, and shipping cost me $3.99, but who cares? $4 for a book is great if you ask me!

I started reading it, and well, sorry Brittany, but I skipped over the part where he rambled on and on about his cardiologist career and blah, blah, blah and went straight to the chapters that mattered. The food.

Grady has decided to do this with me. As Brittany says, the first 2 weeks, she calls the Angry Stage. I haven't gotten angry, yet, and maybe it's because I know I still have M&M's on my fridge. But after my kids eat them this weekend, I may become quite angry. Hope my family can deal with me for the next 2 weeks.

You can check out our progress on our other blog...it's posted under "My Blog List".

The Mom Song

2008-09-24T17:02:00.004-06:00

For all you mom's out there, you can relate. Even if you're not a mom, I'm sure your mom told you this a time or two...million.

Heber Valley Camp

2008-09-20T17:23:00.009-06:00

The view from our cabin

My mom's ward had a Mother/Daughter camp-out at the Heber Valley Camp this weekend. It was quite an experience! We didn't even leave Salt Lake until about 6:00 Friday night. My mom got out of work late then had to drive out to Tooele to pick up my niece, Ashlinn. The kids were hungry, so we stopped at McDonald's to eat (not exactly my idea if eating, but hey, the kids like it for some reason!)

We didn't have a problem finding the actual camp, but in the dark, it was sure hard to find where Mom's ward was. It took us almost 30 minutes, and when we did, the kids were all freezing cold and wanted some Hot Chocolate, which luckily, they had provided.

Payge by the firepit

Pyage, Eran, Emma and Ashlinn on the bunk bed

The cabins weren't bad, however they didn't have any mattresses. We were sleeping on wood, which we tried to soften with extra blankets, but that didn't work well either. It was a horrible, horrible night. Eran and Ashlinn wouldn't quit talking about Bears being in the woods, Emma and Payge fell asleep right away. At 3:00 in the morning, my mom woke me up to go to the bathroom with her because she didn't want to walk through the woods by herself. When we came back from the bathroom, one of the ladies in the cabin was snoring, Ashlinn moans in her sleep, and I laid there and listened to it. The lady that was snoring, got up when she heard Ashlinn moaning, flipped on her flashlight and asked Ashlinn if she was okay. My mom told her that she was sleeping, and then she told my mom how her daughter wet the bed one night because she couldn't get up to go potty fast enough. Who cares?!? It's 3 AM!!!

The lean-to that the kids found

Finally, morning came. We got up, ate breakfast, then told the girls we were going to go hiking. Ashlinn and Eran whined about it. They didn't want to go, but once we got going, they were excited to see what new bugs and flowers they could find. They did find a little lean-to that someone had built, and there was evidence of deer sleeping in it, so they thought that was cool.

My mom and Emma at our picnic

On the way home, the girls all complained about being hungry. We were going to stop at Jordanelle Dam, but ended up going on because there wasn't any "day parking" there. Instead, we drove up Big Cottonwood Canyon and had a picnic at Ledgemere. We had to improvise, big time. I couldn't find the knife I brought for the sandwiches, so we used String Cheese (it was still in the package, don't worry!) as a knife to spread the Mayonnaise. We didn't have plates, so we pulled a blanket out of the van and used that as a tablecloth/plate for the kids.

The boys had their own little party. Grady slept in the living room in his tent, and they ate pizza, hot wings and Poppers and drank lots of Mountain Dew.

Bride's Maid Dress

2008-09-18T08:50:00.005-06:00

My sister calls me up yesterday and informs me that my bride's maid dress is at my mom's hanging in the closet and I need to pick it up and try it on. The bridal shop has to have it by the 22nd to do alterations, if they are needed. She tells me, "I all ready know yours won't fit you, so plan on taking it in." My thinking..."Is she telling me it's too small? I was measured for it! I had to stand in that shop while some woman wrapped her arms around me with a tape measure and touched my boobs!"

I did try it on. And guess what...she was right. It doesn't fit at all. I have to go in and get it altered because it's WAY to big! I was so excited! There's about 3 inches of room in my hips, and about 6 inches of room in the boobs! I was so happy that it was too big and not too small! Grady laughed hysterically at me, when I showed him.

I called Nikki back and told her it needed to be altered. When I told her how badly the front of it hung down below my boobs, she asked me why I didn't want to wear it that way. I told her I could, but I would take all the attention away from her, and I didn't think she wanted me to do that on her wedding day. She agreed with that. LOL

Wedding Shower Plans

2008-09-16T14:09:00.002-06:00

If any of you have ever planned a wedding shower, or plan on giving one, just remember...TYPE YOUR INVITATIONS!!! My mom and I are planning Nikki's wedding shower for a week from now, and my job was the invitations. I thought it would be a piece of cake. Yeah right! My hand is killing me from writing down all the information and the addresses, and that's not all! My tongue is sore from licking those blasted envelopes!

I'm so, so, so glad that I won't have another wedding shower to plan for a long, long time. And when my kids get married, it's up to everyone else to plan the showers for them. I get to sit back and watch everyone else handle it while the girls do all the invitations on their own! MUA-HA! HA!

Emma's Fun Day In Surgery

2008-09-11T19:42:00.005-06:00

What a day! It was so rocky at first, with not knowing yet if Medicaid approved the surgery. I called back at 9 this morning like they told me to, and she told me that they finally got the documents needed for Medicaid. Another girl was on the phone with Medicaid at that moment, and she said she'd call me back. Thirty minutes later, she finally called back and said they had to leave a message on someone's voice mail because she wasn't in yet, but to go ahead and go up to the hospital and plan on having it done. So we did.

We dropped Payge off at my mom's, headed to the store for a few things, then went up to the hospital. We got up there 45 minutes before she was due to register. So, I make a quick call to find out if it was approved. The lady I talked to said there was no definite answer yet. Angry, I called back the other girl I was talking with, and she informed me that she, personally, got a hold of this girl at Medicaid, and that it was a big huge YES! Talk about a close call!

The surgery went very well. They gave her some versed (pronounced VER-SAID) before she went in so that she wouldn't realize what was going on. Grady and I went to lunch, came back and read magazines and did word searches, until the doctor came and talked to us. When she left, a nurse came in and said that when she wakes up, one of us can go in. Grady said since he was staying the night, that I could go in and be with her until she's in her room. Not even 5 minutes later, she came back out and said Emma was awake.

Once we were in her recovery room, she was more awake and conscious of what was going on, and started asking for food. We ordered her favorite meal of all...chicken nuggets with Cheetohs, a Sprite and a chocolate chip cookie for dessert...and she ate it ALL. I was so proud of her. Below are a couple of pictures I took of her before I left to come home. I had to show the other kids that she was okay and not in any pain.

Here she is eating her tasty dinner

Still not quite awake, but at least willing to look at me.

Postponed...Or Not Postponed?

2008-09-10T18:11:00.004-06:00

That's the question for today. Is the surgery that was to happen tomorrow going to be postponed or not? I got a call from Primary Children's today. Told me that the authorization hasn't come through for the surgery yet. So, I call Medicaid. Medicaid says they haven't received anything about an upcoming surgery tomorrow. So, I make a call to the doctor's office, they sent me on to billing. Once I was with them, I sat on hold for what seemed like an eternity, and they told me that they haven't gotten the papers needed from the doctors to do the surgery, and that's why it hasn't been approved yet! I was so furious!

It's been 2 weeks since we've known the surgery was going to take place. They've had 2 weeks to get the needed paperwork from all the doctors and 2 weeks to get the approval! I have to call the office back tomorrow morning at 9 to see what's going on. She's supposed to be up to the hospital at 11:00, and she has to fast. I don't want to starve the poor girl if she's not going to go in!

Now, we have to sit and wait and wonder. Will she go in tomorrow? Or will we have to wait another 2 weeks?

"POP" Party

2008-09-09T11:04:00.004-06:00

Yesterday, my mom and I took Emma to Primary Children's for what they called a "POP" Party. At first, I was unsure as to what to expect. First of all, "POP" stands for Pre-Op. They helped us all to understand what was going to happen with the surgery. They brought out dolls for the kids to see what they do with the thermometer, and the blood pressure cuff, etc. Emma had a blast. They even gave her some gloves, one of those blue hair nets, and even a mask to bring home. She looked so cute sitting there on the floor, looking like a doctor with her "patient".

It was nice to have some preparation for the surgery. My mind is more at ease to see what good hands my Miss Emma is in.

Happy Birthday Payge!

2008-09-07T20:29:00.011-06:00

Payge turned 4 years old today! She has been looking forward to her birthday for 2 weeks now. I think mainly because we took her 2 weeks ago to get her ears pierced. I was going to wait until this week, but my sister bought her some earrings to wear for her wedding in October, so we had to do it sooner. I didn't mind though. And she didn't seem to mind either.

Nanny and Papa bought her the new Little Mermaid movie, The Little Mermaid, Arie's Beginning and a new outfit, and of course, Princess shaped Graham Crackers.

Grandma and Boppy sent her some money to go buy what she wants, and she's all ready picked out the Mariposa Barbie to buy with that.

And her Great Grandpa and Great Grandma Banks also gave her some money to spend on her new Barbie.

If you haven't noticed all ready, she really loves Ariel. She was so excited to pick out her cake and had a hard time deciding between two of them. She finally settled on this one because it had a "shiny Ariel" on it.

It's hard to believe that she's 4 all ready, and getting ready to go to Preschool and soon after that, she will be going to Kindergarten.

Happy birthday sweetie! We love you!!!

Starting Over

2008-09-05T12:26:00.012-06:00

Somehow, I accidentally deleted the other posts we put on here, so I'm having to start over. And, what better way to start over, then with FINALLY posting the pictures of the kids first day of school?!?

Eran started 3rd grade and Grady started 2nd grade this year. And starting on September 15th, Payge will go in to Head Start. Which means, I'll only have Emma home for half a day, 4 days a week!

What a couple of goofs...

Eran

Grady