Friday, March 28, 2008

I don't care who you're going to vote for, this is FUNNY

I'm Going to Tattle

First, read this 1955 Good House Keeping article.

This is the response I got from my brother-in-law Shane: "Yeah a looooooong way, downhill that is ;) Ah to have lived in the good ol'e days! lol"

My response: "
I'M TELLING YOUR WIFE YOU SAID THAT!!! By the way, thanks for the Obama picture. I haven't laughed so hard in a long time. It was great."

Shane's response: "As long as she doesn't cut back on having my dinner ready ;)"


My advice Melina---RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN!

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

More Easter

After posting the pictures taken by Doug, I thought I'd post some taken from our own little budding photographer--Miriam. We have a VERY old digital camera that she likes to take pictures with. These are some of the Easter poses she was able to take. Not too bad if you ask me. Well, we could have done better with the background...there is a dirty diaper in one of the pictures. Don't look at me! You can tell by the way it's wrapped up that Doug changed that one. He should have thrown it away!This next picture is an attempt to take a picture by Shaylynn. Doesn't she have beautiful, RED fingers?
This picture was taken by Doug using the timing setting on the camera. The quality isn't great, but I thought we all looked fairly decent so I decided to share.

Happy Easter

I wanted to have a picture of the Savior, but I couldn't find one that would work without stealing from someone else's blog. Miriam took a picture of a picture of Jesus, but I can't even find that anymore. Oh well, hopefully you all can put an image in your mind. Use those great imaginations I know you have.

We had a wonderful Easter and we didn't do a single thing to celebrate other than go to church, and then stuff ourselves silly with great food. I really enjoy how Easter always falls on a Sunday. It really helps bring the Spirit into the holiday.

Thanks to the Molen family we had a FANTASTIC dinner. I stuffed myself so much I became very sick. Luckily my dinner didn't end up like Brian's drink after Mason tipped it over. Hee, hee. Too much information! Anyway, the food and company was fabulous. I'm not sure what we're going to do when the move. I may have to start cooking on the holidays. Bummer!

We were going to do an egg hunt after we got back from dinner, but we stayed too long visiting. So, two days later and we still haven't done it. I would forget it, but I stuffed the eggs weeks ago. We need to get that candy out sometime. Maybe tomorrow--wait, Doug has clinic. Oh well, I guess maybe I can just sneak them in my room and eat out of them for the next couple of hours, I mean weeks.

I thought I'd put some pictures up of us in our new duds. Doug didn't dress in anything new, so he didn't get to be in the pictures.

I have to comment that this is the first time I have bought a dress in.....I don't know how many years. I even bought new shoes and jewelry to go with it. It was a nice little Christmas present to myself, a few months late. Thanks Mary Ann for making it possible!

The Toy Area

I finished up the toy area and I am LOVING it! I really thought I'd regret having all the toys where people could see them, but I am loving every second of it. Since we don't get too many visitors it really doesn't matter what the house looks like during the day--it just can't be too messy or it starts messing with my sanity. Anyway, since I moved everything out of the bedroom I've been able to keep the messes to a minimum. When it starts getting too messy we start cleaning some of the things up. It's so much easier to see what needs to be cleaned up when it's right there in front of my face, and not hiding in the back bedroom.

I've also found that Miriam and Shaylynn play a lot more together now that they have to share the same space. Before, Miriam would hog the bedroom and complain when Shaylynn came in to play. Since the rule is that there are no toys in the bedroom, they have to share the same space no matter what. There are still fights, but nothing like there used to be. YEA!! I guess the figure they might as well play together instead of trying to find their own corner somewhere.

Here are some pictures. My mother-in-law asked where the LARGE tent went. Look at the big pink thing folded up by one of the walls. Yep, I folded it up. I almost left it down, but it took up so much space that I decided I'd rather have the open floor space instead of the castle. Plus, it's even more exciting when I pull it out for them to play in.

I combined the toy room and the teaching room into the same place. I'm going to start teaching Miriam some sight words and I thought it might be a good idea to have it somewhere where she'll look often. Notice in the picture above I have the calendar set up. I put the kitchen there for now to keep little fingers off of it. I cleaned it all off and wasn't anxious to do it again for a little while. Oh, and in case you're looking carefully, it's set up for April. I didn't think it was worth putting it up for March when we only had a few days left in the month.

The chair Miriam and Shay are sitting on sits across from the television. Isn't it cute? We bought it at Target for a great price, at least I thought it was. Both girls can sit on it with plenty of room left for another little body. I LOVE IT!! We thought it would be fun to put on our patio, but I think I love it too much to risk letting it get dirty. I guess we'll just have to decide when the weather gets warmer.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

One Down...Too Many More to Count, to Go

Here is what I've accomplished so far in my race to fix my house. The sad thing is, I'm already drained of energy and desire to finish the rest of my house. Maybe it is just because I have a lot more going on this week than usual, but it sure is disappointing that I can't get that old fire back. Maybe the sugar from Easter will help give me the sugar rush I need to get back to work.

I decided I wanted an area where I could do crafts (snicker), that is, if I ever choose to become crafty. It needed to be set up in a way so I could leave it out if I didn't quite finish it. I also needed a space that could just be for me. So, I moved off our old computer that doesn't work anymore and relocated the computer desk over by the kitchen table. It makes for cramped eating arrangements, but since it's Doug that's cramped, I'm not too worried about it.

I love my new set up, but it's not quite done yet. I still need to buy a few containers to get it just right, but after a trip to the store, I should be all set. I already have a few craft projects in the idea process stage and I'm excited to get to them---after that sugar rush kicks in.

Doug doesn't know it yet, but he's lost his laptop. It's new home is going to be on my desk. At least until he needs to take it too school.
This last picture show some of the school supplies I have gathered for my upcoming homeschooling experience. It may kill Miriam and I both, but we're going to give it our best shot. Luckily, it's only for a few months.

Monday, March 17, 2008

Redneck Mansion

My aunt emailed this picture to me. I thought it was funny enough to share with all who grace my blog. Ahhh.....memories of home.

Friday, March 14, 2008

What Have I Gotten Myself Into?

I have family coming to town in a month so I know I need to start getting my house in spit-spot shape (that really is kind of a gross term when you think about it). However; after reading Rachel's previous posts (awhile back) about spring cleaning her house, I got inspired. So, now I have decided to pull it all out, throw out anything not being used, and then put it back again---but better.

I've done the easy part. I have made my lists of each room and what needs to be done. I even made a space for a check mark so I have the satisfaction of marking it off when it's finished. If you didn't know this already about me, you'll learn it soon--I'm a BIG list person. Everything gets written down and marked off. Ahhhh....it makes me feel good just thinking about it.

So, I started with the girls' room. I was so sick of having toys cluttering every single inch of my house. We had toys in their room, toys in the open den area in the front room. My kids aren't good at getting one thing out and putting it back. EVERYTHING GETS TAKEN OUT!!! By the time it's time to clean up, there is so much to do that it stresses Miriam out. I decided to take the plunge and move everything into my living room area. GASP! I know, I'll probably regret it, but this way I can keep an eye on the mess as it progresses. Also, the new rule is: NO TOYS IN THE BEDROOM (we'll see how long that lasts, but so far so good).

I have to say that so far I'm loving the situation. The bedroom has been so much easier to stay clean, and it is easier to put the girls to bed when I'm not tripping on things left and right. Before, I wouldn't really see what the bedroom looked like until bedtime and by then it was too late to do a full scale cleaning. Now I don't have to worry about it.

So what's in their room you ask? Just take a look!
Yep, you got it. They've got their beds, books, and a chair for me to sit in to read to them. There are a few other little chairs in there for them to sit and read, but that's it. Oh, they do have their closet with clothes and a little dresser with pajamas and a stereo to listen to stories at night. Talk about living in a minimalists bedroom. I LOVE IT!! I wish I could get mine that empty.

Thursday, March 13, 2008

8 Things I love about Miriam

tagged by Courtney

1. I love how she has so much empathy. She loves to take care of me when I'm sick or sad. She is really good at recognizing other people's feelings and trying to care for them accordingly.

2. I love that she'll hurry and do things I ask her to---well, usually. If I need a diaper, or want a cookie from the kitchen, most times she'll run and get them for me.

3. I love it when she offers me a treat and when I say, "No thank you," she'll say, "Ok, I guess I'll eat it." Of course she always has two treats in her hand. It's so if I take one, she can say, "I got one for me too." If I don't take one, she gets both. Mind you, she never did ask if she could have them, she just figures if she offers one to me first, that means it's ok to eat it.

4. I love how she can play with anyone. She can play sweet and gentle with babies and with the girls, but turn around and sword fight with the boys. She loves all toys and all kids.

5. I love how she loves to dress up and look pretty. The fancier the dress the better. I never liked dresses, but it is fun to dress Miriam up in fancy do-dads.

6. I love how Miriam is up for anything. If I offer to read a book, she jumps up and grabs one. If I ask her to put a movie on for her and Shay, she'll hurry and pick one. She just goes with the flow.

7. I love how she treats Shaylynn. Shaylynn likes to beat on Miriam, but Miriam just takes it until it gets too much and then she comes crying to me. She has never once retaliated and hurt Shaylynn back. I LOVE that about her. One time Shaylynn bit her so hard it left marks. I told her to bite her back (sorry if you think that's bad parenting). Miriam could not bite Shaylynn hard enough to make her flinch. She was just too soft, it just wasn't possible for her to hurt Shay.

8. I love the new phrases and words she uses. Just this morning she put a hear sticker on a picture she had colored for me. She said, "There, this heart shows that my heart belongs to you." Ahhhhhh.....

I LOVE YOU MIRIAM!

Miriam tags: Alyssa, Thula, Porter, Maya, Brigg, Shelby Ross, and Jenna

8 Things I love about Shaylynn

tagged by Courtney

1. I love how she still loves to snuggle with me. She'll reach up to be held and then rub her head right into my chest or shoulder. When I go to put her down she'll cling really tight to me and shake her head.

2. I love how much she likes playing with the big boys. She prefers rough and tumble play to quiet doll-playing play. I love how she enjoys playing with cars and trucks.

3. I love it when she asks Doug to do something after I've told her "no" (don't tell her I like it). Around dinner time she tries to get me to open a package of fruit snacks. Soon after I say "no", she comes in with them open and eating them happily. Sure enough, daddy opened them for her. I act upset, but really, I find it funny---until it happens when she's 16!

4. I love how she's trying to be more independent by putting on her own clothes in the morning. She gets very upset if I try to help her get her shirt on. The look she gets on her face when it's finally on right is so priceless.

5. I love the look of adoration she gives Miriam when they're playing together nicely. As long as they're both in a good mood they play together so well, and Shaylynn will do anything Miriam asks her to. It is so fun to watch them interacting.

6. I love that she is a good eater. The more elaborate the meal, the better she'll eat. For example, she won't eat a cheese sandwich, but if you grill it, and serve it with soup--it will be gone in a heart beat.

7. I love how much she loves her daddy. She gets so excited to see him come through the door. If she's in the other room and hears him come home, she comes runny and yelling, "Daddy, daddy, daddy" until he picks her up and gives her a hug.

8. I love how she fights to say prayers. Ever meal, bedtime, FHE, anytime there is a prayer to be said, there is a fight. If she gets laid in bed without praying she flips out. Sometimes she'll accept help with the words, but usually it's the same babble over and over until one of us helps her end it. I'm sure Heavenly Father knows exactly what she's thinking and is loving her prayers as much as I do.

I LOVE YOU SHAY!

Shaylynn tags: Mason, Tennyson, Weston, Madison, Melanie Anna, Kaden, Spencer, and Bennett

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Trip To NYC

We finally made another trip to NYC. We drove to Trenton to catch the train to NYC. We then went to Ground Zero. Next we went to Rockefeller Center to get the security tag off of Mallena's sweater that was left on it from the last time I was in NYC. We then walked around and went to the main attraction of the Broadway Musical "Wicked". This was a great trip to be together and away from the kids. Elaine was nice enough to watch them for us. Thanks! This was a great trip and we enjoyed every minute of it.

















NYC






Since Mallena doesn't want to do the blog and I don't want to study for my pharm exam on Friday, I'll do the post. This is inside Gershwin Theater. I am not one who jumps at the opportunity to go to a musical, however, this was the coolest play that I have ever been to. We were the fourth row from the front and had great views. The actors were right there in front of us and if we weren't careful, they could even spit on you accidentally, especially the goat, whatever his name was. The range of vocals was so cool. I was not disappointed by my favorite seen, "Defying Gravity". The show was everything we hoped it would be and then some. This is a definite must see.

What to post, what to post.....

I'm sitting here thinking that I should post something. My mind goes blank and I can't find the desire to do more than sit here and type this message. Should I ease Rachel's excitement and post about seeing Wicked? Should I post about what we did once Doug got feeling better? WHAT SHOULD I DO?!?!?!? I know, I'm going to go change a stinky diaper and hopefully lay down for a nap.

I guess you'll just have to wait until I build up enough energy to post again. Sorry Rachel!

Monday, March 3, 2008

A Junky Starting to the Week

Doug's Spring Break is this week and we've been looking forward to it for a long time. We had a long list of things we wanted to get done, and fun things we wanted to do as a family.

Well, yesterday after Stake Conference Doug starting feeling sick and this morning he woke up with strep throat. Great! I had a Dr. appointment that I had been planning on him driving me to, but I ended up going by myself. Then I had to run to Walmart to get a Rx and some popsicles. I know, I know, it doesn't sound like a big deal, but those of you who know me know that I DON'T DRIVE! I was terrified the whole time, but somehow was able to make it to where I needed to be. Phew!

Now I'm worried Doug will make me drive more since I proved today that I can do it. :( Let's hope not!

Here's hoping he gets better for this weekend. I don't want anything to mess up our trip to NYC.

Sunday, March 2, 2008

You did WHAT?!?

For preschool we had a Valentine's Day party at our apartment. At one point during the party one of the kids brought out a handful of hair and asked me what it was. I thought it was from a doll that Miriam had decided to give a haircut. After touching the hair I realized that she didn't have any dolls with such lifelike hair. I had Shaylynn come over and it was then I noticed that there was a chunk of hair missing from the side of her beautiful long hair. Miriam admitted that she had given her a haircut.

After everyone left we discussed what she had done. Apparently she cut it while I was on the computer---TWO days before! The most upsetting part was that instead of telling me what she had done, she chose to hide the hair in her tent. I guess I can't blame her since we had just talked about NOT cutting dolls hair because it doesn't grow back, and it makes a mess.

Well, luckily Tricia was there to save the day and was able to give her a cute bob. Poor Doug came home without having a clue about what had happened. I think he about passed out, he really loves long hair on the girls. Poor guy. Oh well, I think all of us are finally getting used to seeing her with short hair, but I still miss that really long, beautiful brown hair.

Hopefully Miriam has learned her lesson and is just as understanding when Shaylynn wants to take a chunk out of her hair.

Before Haircut:
The Hair:The Missing Chunk:
The Current Look:

Thanks Aunt Rebecca and Cousin Courtney

Thanks Aunt Rebecca for the great presents. We put them on our pillows the day we got them. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Love, Miriam and Shaylynn