Cabin Assignments

Every year we rent a cabin for a family reunion/retreat. Adam and Kayla make the necessary plans to get the cabin and they plan the dates. The rest of us pay our money and plan for a little trip. I am in charge of the food assignments...I think because I stressed out when there is not a game plan. Well, this year it is the first part of February and I am trying to get it done. So, for the Grover family, here are your assignments...

Thursday: Arrive at the cabin after 4 pm. No Troy and Jandy.
Dinner: Everybody for themselves.

Friday: (Troy and Jandy arrive afternoon...so don't plan for Breakfast or lunch)
Breakfast: Mom and Dad (12)
Lunch: Danielle and Toddly (12)
Dinner: Adam and Kayla (16)

Saturday: No Troy until afternoon
Breakfast: Adam and Kayla and Troy and Jandy (15)
Lunch: Mom and Dad (Soup) (15)
Dinner: Jandy and Troy (16)

Sunday: Leave cabin before noonish .
Breakfast: Everybody for themselves

Last year some of the necessities were not provided, so please bring enough of the following for your your family:
Toilet paper (at least one 4 pk)
Garbage bags
Paper towels
Ziplocs and or Tupperware containers
Dish Soap, Dish towels, hand towels
Hand soap
Band aids or small first aid kit
Tylenol/ medicine for kids
Towels for bathing
Paper plates/cups/bowls
Bring your own beverages
Bottled water (bring enough to drink, the cabin water is gross)
Toiletries
Hot tub might be working...so bring swimming suits
Snow clothes
Snacks or treats
Games/cards

Excuses

So, I have not felt very good the last couple of days...I have a terrible head cold. But, it has also given me an excuse to do the bare minimums around my house. Yesterday I cleaned a ton which left minimal stuff to do today. I have taken this opportunity to scrapbook. I still do it the old fashioned way...I know a lot of you do it digitally, but this is just easier for me. I have oodles of pictures and odds and ends. I have to get creative because I told myself I could not buy new until my old is used up. So... Are my pages very cute? Not really. I am just trying to get them done. I can always go back and embellish. I have a ton of cute paper, and that is pretty much what I am using to "dress up" the pages. It is amazing at what I can do with limited supply! But, this is the only way I will ever use the "old" stuff. There are so many new techniques that I would LOVE to learn, but for now I will stick with 8 1/2*11 paper (I will never go 12*12 because I have 24 completed 8 1/2*11 and want to stick to that size) and mostly just journaling. So...I have finished 2007 today. I am now working on January 2008 and there is not a whole lot to do with it. Pretty easy stuff. So, I am feeling yucky with cold, but grateful for the excuse to lay low and scrap!!! Oh, and I am trying to convince Troy to get computers switched over so I can post some pictures. That is what I am waiting for...then maybe I can get Christmas card sent out!!! Maybe???

Daeson's reasonings

This was a conversation we had a bit ago:

Mom: Daeson, could you find Tevan's passy, he needs a nap.
Daeson: But Mom, we are playing cowboys.
Mom: So?
Daeson: Well cowboys don't have moms, so I don't have to do it.
Mom: Well, this cowboy does, and you will do it.
Daeson: Awe, MOM! Otay, I guess I will help you.

He is so funny...I just love some of the things he says.

Oh, and for journaling purposes, Tevan now says the following:
Chocolate, Papa, Grandma, Dad, Mom, juice, cheese, more, Jesus, Santa, done, and various animal sounds including: snake, cow, sheep, horse, duck, chicken, kitty and dog.

Fun, family and friends

We have a had a busy, but fun week. Thursday my niece came to stay. She was with us until Sunday morning. The missionaries came to eat Thursday night. The are so nice. Friday I drove the missionaries around and I took the kids to the temple visitor center. It was cool...for about 5 min. Then the kids were DONE. So, we left and headed home to get ready for the Grover family Christmas party. We had a ton of yummy food, and Santa came to see us...Thanks, Grandma Grover for setting it all up. The kids had a blast. Then Saturday was my family Christmas party. I would post pictures, but I failed to take any. Justin, Hailey, Jesse, Brooke, and Jaden all came. We had a really great meal...if I do say so myself. Justin brought tater babies and tot sticks and I made meatballs, a cheese ball, lil smokies, crescent rolls with chicken or tuna salad, veggie plate, toothpicks with olives, cheese and pickle, and an assortment of snacks. I was rather pleased with the way it all turned out. My brother...whom I never think notices the efforts put in to things...said, "Have you ever thought about catering?" What a compliment!! It made the whole days work worth it! And, yes, I would LOVE to cater. But, it will have to wait. We played Bonanza (a bean farming game) and Scattergories. We talked and had a great time. I just wish we would do it more often! They all left about 12 and Jess and Brooke stayed the night. I realized that I had to teach Relief Society, so I was scrambling to get my lesson prepared. I had read it, but that was it. Sunday morning Jess and Brooke left around 10:30 or 11. I got the kids ready, myself ready and headed off to the last 1 1/2 hours of church... Just to find out that the Stake RS Presidency would be there for my unprepared lesson. It actually turned out rather well, and they all said it was great. Thank goodness!!!! Then after home teachers left and Troy got done loading his truck, we headed off to Troy's parents. Adam and Kayla made steak and lobster. Yummy, Thanks a ton!! I made a Mascarpone cheesecake with caramel topping. We attempted family pictures for Christmas cards and headed home. Whew! Wat a busy week! Today I am catching up...laundry, sheet changing, toy cleaning, and I am watching my neighbor's son. It is nice because it keeps Daeson happy. The holidays are so busy, but I kinda like the hustle and bustle. Happy Monday to all...and there are only 10 days until Christmas!!! I can't wait!!

The Nutcracker Ballet

With everyting going on, I forgot to post the date Daeson and I went on. Last Friday night, Dec. 5, Daeson and I went to the Nutcracker Ballet at the Colonial Theater. I was a bit worried how he would be, but it turned out so very wonderful. The ballet was about two hours. He went potty before it started and sat on my lap the rest of the time. It was kinda hard for him to see, there were some very tall people in front of us, but he did okay. During the intermission he stood in the isle (we had an end seat) and danced like the dancers. It was very cute and I just beamed. The dancers were amazing!!! It was so beautiful and the costumes were amazing. The littlest dancers stole my heart. They were just adorable.
After the ballet was over, we headed to Shari's for pie and hot chocolate. When we got there, however, Daeson ordered a full-fledged breakfast. He was having a very hard time staying up...it was almost 10. But he thought it was very cool that he got to stay up that late. We ate our pancakes and headed home. I love that he is still small and thinks that I am a cool person to hang out with. I am also glad that he lets me drag him to all the "girlie" type things. He is a good boy and I love him very much. He surprises me every single day with his ideas and sayings. He is full of compassion and love. He is a teaser. He is a "tough" boy and likes to rough house with his dad. He likes to comfort me when I am sad, and he likes to play and joke when I am happy. I love both of my boys very much and would not trade them for the world. Thanks for making the Nutcracker special, Bug!!!

Brave boy!

I have no idea what time Troy and Daeson got home, but it was very early this morning. Daeson did very good. They hydrated him (I guess he was pretty dehydrated from what Troy said), and pumped him full of Zofran (? ) . It is a drug to keep nausea down. But, they gave him a blue teddy bear and he remains asleep. So what was wrong? A BUG. There is a very bad bug going around right now. It lasts 2-3 days and it is just vomiting. No other symptoms. So parents, be prepared. I am just glad he is resting. Troy said the whole time they were there, he had his eyes glued to the TV. Because we don't have TV, he soaks it up where he can. Funny kid. I just don't know what could have been on that late at night!!! Usually infomercials!! But he looks good and seems to be okay today. The Dr told Troy they gave Daeson a good dose before he left, so it should be okay for a while. We will have to get the RX filled today and if I remember right, Zofran is a little pricey...yikes. First a ER visit, then a RX. Good thing my shopping is done for the holidays!!! LOL But, I thought I would just let y'all know he is doing better. Thanks for your little prayers...

IV's and Blood tests

I just talked to Troy and they hooked him up to some IVs to hydrate Daeson and to give him some medicine to reduce vomiting. They ran some blood tests and the Dr's are waiting on those. He is doing well and Troy said he was such a big boy during all of this. He is awake and watching TV. They said the meds should kick in and he should be going to sleep soon. I hope so, he is so beat. And he is very weak. I hope the fluids will help that a bit. I just hope they are not there all night. I know that Daeson likes to be home and it helps him to feel better. Hang in there, Bug. I called to tell him that I love him and he said, "I wuf you too, Mom." Those are the sweetest words I have heard today! It is getting late and despite my worries for Daeson, I know that Tevan will not let me sleep tomorrow and if momma doesn't get sleep, she is a grumpy bear. So further updates will have to wait. I am glad my Dad told us to take him in...it is kinda nice having a Dr in the fam!!! Thanks Mom and Dad for letting us call a zillion times...every time my kids are sick you are the first to hear about it!

ER

Troy just left with Daeson to the ER. He started puking up really nasty colored stuff that smelled like poop. Sorry for the graphics. His tummy is very sore and he is having a hard time going more than 5 minutes without throwing up. He hasn't been able to keep anything down since about 5. Not even water. So, off to the ER where they will hopefully tell us that it is just a bug and that it will be gone in 24 hrs or so. So, if you are up and reading this, please say a little prayer for my brave little boy who is terrified of the ER . I am sure that everything will be okay, but it doesn't hurt to have some reinforcements!

Sick kids, Christmas tree and cool new web site

It has been very busy the last couple days. Yesterday was busy with fun Christmas crafts...Cristmas crafts you ask? Yes, I am TRYING to get in the Christmas mood. We had some friends from our ward come over to do glitter glue window clings...I saw this on my friend Janet's blog, looked up the directions on the internet and thought they would turn out. Uh, No. I must have done something wrong. I bought the Crayola Glitter Glue and drew snowflakes on the waxed paper. The directions stated that after the glue dried, you could cling them to the window...must not be MY windows. But, the kids had fun anyway. Then for FHE we went down Candy Cane Lane to look at the lights. The kids loved that and Daeson said, "Mom and Dad, this was the best Family Home Ebbeneen we ever have." Troy and I just smiled at each other, grateful for our kids.
Then today I went VTing to a newer sister...well new to my route...and she is just the cutest girl. Our kids played and we got to visit. I was so happy the kids got along so well. Then we met Troy at WalMart to look for some Christmas stuff. We decided to go to Shopko, we were very disappointed with WalMart's selection of ornaments. We let the kids pick one every year...then when they are grown, they get to take the ornaments with them. We found a great variety at Shopko...Daeson got a Ninja Turtle (appropriate since he was such on Halloween), Tevan picked Elmo (surprise, surprise), Troy picked the Santa off the old claymation Rudolph, and I picked Rudolph and a misfit doll ( I have felt like a misfit this year and so I laughed when I saw her). We did not, however, find a tree at Shopko, so Troy dropped the boys and I off at the house while he went for the tree. Another sister I VT had some oral work done, so I made dinner for her and had it to her by 4:30 and dinner for our family done by 5:30. Just then Daeson threw up and has been sick ever since. Poor guy, he is so miserable. We did manage to get the tree done, and that made Daeson smile a bit considering we had to miss the Ward party tonight...including Santa. He kept saying, "I feel all better now, Mamma. I not sick anymore." He was so, so sad we couldn't go to the party. I just hope he gets better soon and that Tevan doesn't catch it. I caught him drinking from Daeson's sippy cup. Yikes!
But, I found a very cool website the other day. It is everydayfoodstorage.net. She does amazing stuff on her web site...including some very neat gift ideas. I really like what she has to offer and I will put it on my list of cool websites...as soon as I create one. :)
This week doesn't look like it will be any less busy than the first two days, and I hope it knocks me into the Christmas spirit. I have the kid's 12 Days of Christmas done, and I have only a few things to get Troy. The Big Guy's shopping is all done, and the stockings are ready to be filled...assuming I get them hung. Sunday night we put out the Nativity and I figure if that is the only thing that gets done, so be it. That is what it is all about anyway! Right? My computer is still broken so I am make shifting with Troy's, but when it gets fixed and I have access to my pictures, I will post a hundred. So be prepared. Troy promised me this week it would be fixed...we'll see. Have a happy week!!!

Yummy recipe for left over baked potatoes

I am going at this from memory. I made it last night...here it goes:

Twice baked potato soup

6 large baked potatoes, skins removed and pulp mashed (not like mashed potatoes, but chunky)
2 Tbsp butter
1/2 c finely chopped sweet onion
5 c broth...we used 1/2 veggie and 1/2 chicken ( if you buy the cans, it is 3 plus some of a fouth...if you don't want to open a fourth can, maybe it would work to dilute the rest with water??? I used 4 and reseved the rest)
2 Tbsp chives, or 1 Tbsp frsh chopped chives
1/4 c light cream...I used a little more, like 1/2 c
Potato toppers: crumbles bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream...ect.

In a 3 qt saucepan, saute onion and better until onions are soft. Add the broth and 5 c mashed pulp, reserving the rest. Heat through. In a blender, scoop 1/3 of the mixture and blend until smooth. Pour into a medium bowl. Repeat until all of the mixture is blended. Pour mixture back into the saucepan and stir in the chives and cream. Heat for five more minutes, be sure to stir often as it will stick to your pan. In your soup bowls, divide the remaining pulp. Pour soup over the pulp and top with your favorite toppers.
Serves about 6.

Troy really liked this, and so did my kids. The bacon makes it really yummy as does the cheese. I bought the Real bacon bits off the salad dressing isle, making this very easy and my house didn't stink. You can add more chives if you like them, I thought it was a bit much to add more. I served this with Geraldine rolls and it was start to finish in about 20 minutes. If you don't have left over potatoes, nuke them in the microwave for about 15-20 minutes and you still have dinner done in under an hour. If you have any questions, give me a holler. This was a really good and fast meal. Bon appetite!

Alone time...???

I get a bit of alone time today. I am so grouchy that Troy took the kids to let me get things done. Grouchy, you ask? Jandy? Never!! I know, it is very hard to believe that I of all people am grouchy...unless you know me, then you know that it is not all that uncommon. :) The sad thing is that my kids had nothing to do with it. In fact, they bring me comfort and joy when I am in my moods. It is when I am left alone that I cry and let everything go. I don't think it is depression for all of you who just made that assesment...it is hormones and emotions all tied into one. I am so tired lately and that doesn't help either. And this weather???

I guess there are several contributors to my grouchiness. Although my brother just spent several days working on our den, it will still not be finished before Christmas. He got his part done, but we need someone to come texture the ceiling and blend where the wall meets the ceiling. Then I have to prime and paint and we have to decide on the flooring. It is almost impossible to decide that because we can't agree on anything. So, in the mean time, I have no Christmas tree or decorations up because I have no place to put them. My living room is wall-to-wall furniture until that room is finished. Here it is Dec. 2, and I have no sign of Christmas. And, although I hate the snow, I rather miss it. It just doesn't feel like Christmas in any way. We did start the chocolate advent calendars, thanks Mom! I don't even have my shopping done...no thanks to Shopko being out of everything on my list. I still have a few things for the 12 days of Christmas to pick up, and we have to find a toy for Daeson and Tevan...just a small one. I am usually done shopping in July with the gifts wrapped by Halloween so that I enjoy this time of year, but no this year. I slacked.

I think another thing that I am sad about...I know this is going to sound completely childish...but I miss my mom and dad. I did get to see them for a couple days over Thanksgiving, but when they come, their time is spread so thin. Everyone else wants to see them and spend time with them. We are up here, and everyone else is down there. It seems like it is so rushed when they come. I wish so badly they would move closer, but I don't think it is likely to happen in the next 10 years. And that makes me so sad. What I would give to have my parents here...close. I guess it just makes me so much more gratelful for my in-laws. Although they cannot replace my parents, they are so great to my family. They would do anything I asked. For that I am thankful.

So, I must conclude this post and get busy with my very dusty house. Jaden sheetrocked, taped and mudded...and it left a TON of dust. I decided I would LOVe to be on one of the home make over shows...vacation while the construction was being done. How nice!!

Well, I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Thank you Justin and Hailey for hosting. And thank you, Santa, for making a very special visit!!!

Happy Thanksgiving...and Merry Christmas

I know, Thanksgiving always gets over-looked...Christmas just kinds butts in. However, I am in the Christmas mood...family, friends, shopping, and that good ol' Christmas feeling. I am grateful for this time of year when we get to remember our Savior, Jesus Christ, and the beautiful story of His birth. Often times we get wrapped up in the shopping and gifts, but the greatest gift is the love He has for each of us. For the life He led and the example He set. Let us all soften our hearts...forgive, help, and lift others. It is the life He would have us live. He was sent to us, the greatest gift of all.

Sore finger

I wish that I could post the picture of my sore finger, but they are on Troy's phone. This is very graphic...beware! Last night I was getting ready to make my orange chicken kiev with jullienned carrots and spinach salad...YUMMY!! As I was pulling my meat mallet out of my very chaotic kitchen drawer that contains knives, spatulas, and the now hated lemon zester, the formentioned zester jumped out and attacked me...or my finger. It chopped the whole pad off all but the tiny piece of skin holding it on. I screamed seeing all the blood guhing everywhere hollering for Troy. He thought I was just being obnoxious so proceeded to change Tevan's diaper. When I didn't stop screaming, he came to the kitchen and saw the mess. He grabbed the first aid kit and wrapped it in gauze, frantically calling neighbors to watch the kids. After trying three different neighbors and getting no responses, he got the kids ready to go. I called my super hero sister-in-law Kayla who was headed down to go Christmas shopping. She said she would be right here. In the mean time, I grabbed a couple of neighbor girls who were out riding their bikes to come watched the boys until she sould get here. Troy rushed me to Dr. Baker's office who was luckily open, and they got me right in. An hour and a half later and six stitches, we got home. Poor Kayla, the one night she gets to come down without her girlies, and she was stuck watching my boys! Sorry, Kayla, but I am sooo glad you were here for me!!! Thanks a million!

Trans Siberian Orchestra

For Christmas my parents take us to the Trans Siberian Orchestra concert in Boise. We went Monday, the 10th. It was just as amazing as last year!!! They did their Christmas program and then played various music the rest of the night. It was a three hour concert! No one does concerts that long anymore!! I loved it.

My cousin, Katie, watched the kids for us...and did a GREAT job! Thank you soooo much Katie!!! We left Monday afternoon and we didn't get home until 8:30 p.m. Tuesday. We had a wonderful get-a-way and got some Chrostmas shopping done too. Our new favorite store is World Trade Markets. We love that store. We also ate at Ramano's Macaroni Grill for the first time and LOVED it, too. We were able to meet up with Harley, Troy's old "boss" from insurance, and his wife and my good friend, Kelly, and their kids Brayden and Kayla for lunch. Then Kelly went to the mall with us and we found the boys' Christmas outfits for church at the Children's Place. I LOVE that store, too. Wow, Boise has so much more shopping than here! We then met up with my Grandma Smith, brother Jaden and the 'rents at the cannery. My mom gave us some food storage to go with our Christmas. Thank you!!!!

In short, we had a great time and we loved every minute of it! A HUGE thank you to my mom and dad for taking us to the concert...a HUGE thank you to Troy for getting his work done super fast so that we could go...a HUGE thank you to Katie for watching our kids...and a HUGE thank you to the Trans Siberian Orchestra for putting on one of the best concerts I have ever been to. We will be back next year!!!!

Days of Christmas

Okay, I know I have promised some pics, but my computer is overloaded, soI cannot put anything else on it until Troy finds the time to go through it and fix it...don't hold your breath!!! JK, babe!

However, I have done the 12 days of Christmas for Troy since our first year together, this being #9. I got this idea from my mom who used to do it to us. I am now doing it for Troy and my children...but I am running out of ideas. HMMMM!! I am hoping someone has some really great ideas to share. This is what I have so far: Oh, I cannot reveal Troy's, because he is a good husband and reads my blog...

Daeson: Tevan:
1. Beach Towel 1. Beach towel
2.Batman slippers 2.Elmo slippers
3. Spiderman cup, plate and bowl set 3. Mickey set
4. sharing: bath crayon/markers
5. 5.
6.Decks of cards...like matching, go fish.. 6.
7. 7.
8. Sharing: Books
9. Lightning McQueen stickers 9. Piece puzzle
10. 10.
11. 11.
12. 12.
So, if anyone can fill in the blanks for me...or share your ideas, please do. We try to keep each day under $10.00 each child, and we try to get them something they can actually use. Play-doh is something I thought about, but Daeson FREAKS out if his hands get dirty...??? I think I am too neurotic!!! It is rubbing off on to my children.

Oh, I am looking for a recipe for chile rellenos...please let me know if any of you have a great one. Thanks!!

Thank you, WalMart!!!

I am not sure how many of you received a toy catalog from WalMart, but we got one yesterday in the mail. I told Daeson last night that he could look at it this morning and that he had to go to bed. This is the first thing he said to me when he woke up, "Mom, can I look at that really super cool toy magazine now? I went to bed and now I am awake. So, can I look at it?" I kid you not, he looked at every page with amazement. It took him two hours to get through that book!!! Over and over he told me how "way awesome" it was. So, thank you Walmart for providing two hours of free entertainment to my three year old!!!

Happy Halloween Party #3

Happy Halloween...well, in two days. I have been in the bahumbug attitude this year...and right before our big bash?!? I finally found my costume today, but I cannot tell you what it is for I am sure my sis in law is going to read this and we are having a costume contest. It is probably not my first choice, but it will do. I also just got done coloring 20 BINGO cards for the little one's bingo game. They are sooo cute and if any of you are needing a fun Halloween game, I suggest this. I also suggest printing it in color as it took me 3 hours to color all of them. The website is: www.dltk-cards.com/bingo. Very cute stuff on there. But, I am stuck for the grown-up games. We bought the prizes: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place for three games. But, we have no games. So if anyone has ideas, please let me know ASAP. I have only tomorrow to finish getting ready. We put up spider webs today and the boys thought it was the best thing ever. However, while I was decorating, I put the bowl of candy corns from the entry table to Troy's desk and evidently it was not high enough. I heard a funny noise and went to the LR and found Tevan eating candy corn and pumpkins as fast as he could, spitting most of them out after one bite. I just laughed. What a character!!!

I guess that leads me to another part of my blog...mostly for journal purposes, so feel free to skip this portion. I am a very uptight person when it comes to the way things are. I get angry very fast and I am more concerned with my house being clean than I am with some of the important things in life. So, about five days ago I decided to relax a bit. And it is going very well. It is amazing that the attitude and tone of my house is so much better. My boys behave better and we get along splendidly. We still have our ups and downs, but I have chosen to lower my voice...if you know me you know that I can be very loud and my voice carries. I haven't raised my voice for those five days. This might not sound huge, but to me it is. I have started to spend a bit more time with my boys and really take time to get to know them. I think it is so easy to get wrapped up in the "things" in life that we often ignore the most important people. I cannot tell you how many times I say, "Just a minute" or "Wait until..." or the worst: "Mommy is busy". Looking back at those times I have said it, I get very sad. I get so sad my heart hurts. My job is my children. I might be just a "Stay-at-home-Mom", but I am a teacher, a nurse, a walking encyclopedia, a super-hero, a healer of wounds and broken hearts. I am a mom to the most beautiful children in the world...what is more important than that? NOTHING. Period. We live in such a bad, bad world. We are up for some scary changes in our beloved United States. We have the adversary to fight against not only out there, but in our homes. I am so proud and honored that I get this chance to raise my children. I don't have to take them to daycare everyday and HOPE that someone is going to teach them something good. I know every second what my children are learning. I am the one who gets to moderate them. I get to teach them to pray...something that is no longer "allowed". I am so thankful to Troy that he works so hard to provide for us. He supports me fully. He is such a good man. I guess I am a very spoiled woman as I don't want for much. I also have my gracious Heavenly Father to thank as he is the one who gives me strength every single day to make it through. I know I would fail without Him picking me up. I have so much gratitude in my heart right now that I could go on FOREVER. I grew up in a home where my mother was able to stay home. There were times that we were extremely poor. There were times my parents struggled to get where they are today. But no matter how hard those time got, she satyed at home and raised 4 children. My dad worked a lot of shift work and he was gone a lot...especially during med school. My mom had a lot of weight on her shoulders and made it through. I am so blessed to have that example. I know the importance of being at home with my kids. I know it is the most important job any Mother could have. There are times I want to quit. There are times I want to cry...there are times I have cried. Those are the times that I am being taught patience and long suffering. I would not trade this experience for the world. I am sad that it took me this long to appreciate what I am able to do. Daeson is three years old. No one could have told me this is what it would be like. I am sure many tried to tell me. I used to feel like it was a strap holding me down. Now I see mother hood for what it really is and I am slowly learning to embrace it. I still have moments when I want to lock myself in the bathroom just to finish a chapter in my book, or just to plug my ears and have silence. But those times are becoming fewer and fewer as I am becoming less selfish. It is not about me...it is about my two wonderful children and my wonderful husband. I only can pray that one day my children will look back at their childhood and be happy. I do not want them to remember me as someone who was "there". I don't want to be remembered as the one saying, "Just a minute", "hold on", and especially, "I don't have time." If I don't have time for my children, my priorities are very out of order and that calls for some re-evaluating.

Flu update 2

Troy was able to get up at four this morning and go to work...and the boys slept all night long. I got sick about 9 p.m. last night, but I was able to get up this morning and get on with it. I don't think that Troy is even 50% yet, but he is getting there.
Today I get to do laundry from all the blankets, towels, and clothing that got yucky. At least we don't have a lot going on today and I can get it done before tomorrow.
Oh, does anyone have a super yummy recipe for cranberry stuffing? Tomorrow we are having a "Thanksgiving" dinner at Troy's parents. They are by themselves this year, as the rest of us are going to our homes...Dani and Todd are in UT and can't get off work, I am not sure about Adam and Kayla, and Heidi and Brad will be in Kentucky by then. So tomorrow we are having dinner at Grover's. I actually would like to make cornish hens with stuffing, but they are so expensive...$4.00 each and I would have to get at least 10 of them. So, I think I will just do regular chickens...on sale at FM for .89/lb. That sounds much better. So, Kayla is doing a veggie salad, Peggy rolls, banana cream pie and squash, and I the chicken and stuffing, and pumpkin pie. Yumm-o. But, I do need a recipe, so if anyone can help that would be great!!!
I need to get pictures uploaded, but my comp downstairs is not functioning properly...and Troy doesn't ever have time to work on it, like the mechanics car is always broken :). As soon as it is done, i will get some on here. For now you are stuck with extrememly boring posts :).

Flu update

Tevan is still holding strong...he's done really well today. Daeson has thrown up about 25 times, and I feel sooo bad for him. his eyes are dark and his lips are sooo chapped. He tried to eat something and actually held it down for about 10 minutes...that's a start I guess. Troy is still in bed, he has been there since 10:30 or so this morning. These are the times that I will myself to be well. I know I am fighting something. I was able to take a nap this afternoon while everyone else slept. My house wreaks of sickness. I just hope and pray this passes soon. My poor boys!!! This is the time I wish I was the one sick and everyone else was healthy. These are the times I wish I had closer family to help out. Let's hope tomorrow's report is so much better!!!!!

We're back

We got back on Wdenesday night from Gville, well Richfield technically, about 6:30. Troy took us to dinner and then we went to the toy store. Tevan got his Halloween costume...Elmo. He hates to wear it though. He carries it all over the house saying, "Melemo, Melmo" but try to get it on him!!! Sheesh!

We had a great surprise this morning...everyone has the FLU!!! Yes, our family has been hit with something. Daeson started off this morning with throwing up, and then Troy. My tummy is not so hot either. Yeah, what a fun day. But the bummer part is that we have to miss the Archer Elementary Halloween carnival. We have gone every year for the last 8. I am so sad to miss it, but better miss it and get well than to go and eat junk and get more sick...and of course I would not want to spread it around. I guess better this weekend than next.

I will update more later...we are laying around today, not even wanting to answer the phone. I am sure this will blow over. I hope Troy gets better, he has no choice but to get up tomorrow at 3 a.m. and work all day. If he doesn't go, we get in big trouble with the stores.
Hope everyone else is healthy and well...I have more throw up to clean up so i will be going now...BYE!

And we're off...

Well, tomorrow is the day we are off to Gville. I am still doing laundry and packing, but I hope to be done by midnight :) . We have snow today...and it is sticking. I am a bit nervous, but according to the internet weather sources, we should be fine. I think once we get past Boise...maybe even Twin...it should be nice, about 64-68 degrees. The boys are very excited. Or at least Daeson is. Tevan isn't sure what is going on. I am sure if he did, he would not be very excited. 10 hours in the van is not his cup-o-tea. But, I will pack every Elmo movie I can and hope that gets us by. Daeson cannot wait to visit Papa Ty and Grandma Cindy. It will be a good trip for all of us. Wish us luck! I will update as I can. TATA!

Busy Busy Busy

It started off as a regular week-- not much going on, until Wednesday. I had my sister-in-laws-sister's kids on Wednesday. She has three kids, 8,6,2. I had them from about 8:30 a.m. til about 9:30 pm. It went pretty well. They are good kids, but I think it was overload for my kids. I was happy when I crawled into bed at midnight.
Thursday Troy and I took the kids out to his mom and dad's while we went to a movie and ate dinner. Thank you for taking our kids Mom and Dad G!!!!! We watched Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist. Troy and I both decided it could have been a really great movie, but it probably was a renter. The popcorn was good... We then went to Da Pineapple Grill in Rexburg. We had never eaten there and thought we would give it a try. The waitress was really nice. Very bubbly. I had the teriyaki chicken...not my favorite...and Troy had the curry. He loved it. The portions were very good sized. We had a sushi roll that was really good as well. It had coconut shrimp in it and I don't like shrimp, but this was really good. It was really nice to spend time together. Our friend Nathan went with us. Then, Annette brought Heather to meet us.
Heather is staying with us until tomorrow. I has been fun. Last night we watched a movie and got settled in. Today she helped witht the kids. I had to get a couple bills paid, so she played Rockband. She did really, really well. She is dubed as the new drummer. After Tevan's nap, we went to the library and she had fun picking out movies and CDs. Then we picked Troy up and went out for pizza and pasta. We stopped at PetSmart and Halloween Boutique.
The kids are in bed, Heather and I just finished Justin and Kelly. It was pretty cute. Now she is watching Kidsongs and I should be getting my lesson ready, or packing done. Grandma Tom, the kids and I are taking off Monday for 10 days to visit Mom and Dad. I am a little uneasy about the trip, but I think we will be fine. We are leaving early so that we can beat the fog on the Whitebird pass. It really is a pretty drive...except from Pocatello to Boise...UGLY! But, it should go well. Tevan is addicted to Elmo and he has plenty to keep him busy. It will be a good trip. Daeson is soooo excited to see Grandma and Grandpa...and I think they are excited too. ; ). We will miss Troy very much.
Sunday I am teaching another grueling lesson. It is lesson 18 in the Joseph Smith book. I will need all the help I can get. WOW, these Joseph Smith lessons are sooo deep, but they are very good for us. My last lesson wasn't too good, so I am hoping this will go so much better. Section 76 of the Doctrine and Covenants is a big portion of it. Wish me luck.
Oh, BTW, I got my cubicle exchanged and Troy built the new one for me today...only had to ask him once!! LOL! Thanks, babe!!!

BAH!!!

Angry. I bought a drawer for my scrapbook nook September 22. Since that day I have asked Troy, almost daily, to put it together for me. So, tonight I decided to take matters into my own hands. I BROKE THE DUMB THING!!! I am so mad right now. After I tried to get the first drawer built, I couldn't get the front to go together. I tried and tried. Finally Troy came down to see what I was doing. Then he offered to help. How convenient. After coming to the conclusion that it was broken, I had to repackage the parts...which never go together right and you have to be a rocket scientist to figure out how they got a drawer to fit in a small box...and then find the receipt. It was buried in my scratch paper drawer. So tomorrow, I have to figure out how to get this very large drawer package and two kids, one which has to be carried, back to Robert's to exchange it. It would have been nice three weeks ago to know it was broken. This would have been all done and over with. Then Troy tells me that I should have asked him to do it. AUGHGHGHGHGHG!!!!!!!! MEN!!!!!!

Malad High School Reunion Class of 1998

I have been accused of being bold, and last night I was talking to Janet and Gillian at the reunion. We decided I should be a gossip columnist...it would be perfect for me. Not that I like to gossip, I just like to be in the know! :)
I had a great time last night catching up with all of my classmates...or the ones that were there. We missed those who were not. And, honestly, I had forgotten some. Brad had a slide show last night, and I was sooo surprised to have forgotten so many names! I took my cake but no one would cut it. So, I left it on plates in hopes that someone would take it home.
I got the boys' pictures taken. She did a great job and Troy is so excited about them. I just need to get them ordered now. Annette is a very talented photographer and a great friend. I was sad that we didn't get to see Heather, but I hope to see her next week.
I was an hour late for the reunion...my "short visits" were not so short. And in return, I was and hour and a half late for pictures. The weather was yucky, but Brad's cabin was huge and it accommodated us all very well. We did a group picture (good idea, Janet!) just with our little cameras, but not everyone stuck around for it. I will see if I can remember who was there: John Allen (wife Camille), Megan Daines (baby), Tyson Daniels (wife Jilliene?), Mandi Davis, Brooke Blaisdell (husband Shawn), Gillian Farley (husband Seth), Eric Buehler (wife), JaRon Crowther (husband Andre and kids Reagan and Adam), Mindy Griffiths (daughter), Brad Horsely (wife Kristen and son), Victor Hubbard (wife), Kenny Peterson, Clint Price (wife), Chris Jones (girlfriend?), Cort Jones (wife and son), Trevor Neal (wife?), Brent and Brian Schow, Jamie Scouten (husband Tyrell), Janet Tubbs, Bryan Seamons (wife Alicia), Janita Showell (husband and kids), Myself (and kids Daeson and Tevan), Tanya Ward (husband Danny), Brian Thomas (girlfriend), and Burt Willie (wife?). I am so sorry if I forgot anyone!!! Those with question marks I didn't meet and are speculations. It was a lot of fun and I am so glad now that I went. I did get butterflies though. Seeing classmates from 10 years ago is always awkward. I was happy to see everyone. In the earlier post about everyone changing, it is true. We are not in high school anymore, and for the most part we are all grown up and headed in the right direction. I am proud to say that I am a graduate of the class of 1998. We have all done well and it makes me smile.
It was hard going back to Malad. No family there anymore. As I drove by my old house, I was saddened to not stop. It looks good though, they have put a lot of work into it. And, they can park in the garage!!! :) Just kidding, Dad. But, it does look good. A lot of people asked about my parents and that made me happy. It makes me know that despite the hardships they had, they were liked and loved by the people of Malad. My dad was a great asset to Malad and did a lot of services there. It is just sad that they were often overlooked and more often than not overworked.
Now for some pictures. Believe it or not, I only got a few! October 4, 2008:

Okay, not sure why it is sideways, hmmm. This is the picture on the cake.

Not too big of a pic, but I will try:
Back Row: Janet Tubbs, JaRon Crowther, Mindy Griffiths, Tanya Ward

Middle Row: Brent Schow, Brain Schow, Burt Willie, Tyson Daniels, Brad Horsely, Trevor Neal, Brian Thomas, Cort Jones, Victor Hubbard, Clint Price, Megan Daines, Gillian Farley, Bryan Seamons, Chris Jones

Front Row: Brooke Blaisdell, Mandi Davis, Jaime Scouten, Jandy Smith, John Allen.

Well, there ya go. The Malad High School Class of 1998 10 Year Reunion. Good luck for the next 10 years...it might be that long before I see many of you again. Thanks to all of those who helped and put it together. I know it was a lot of work...it was appreciated!!! Thank you!

What to wear???

Okay, so I decided to go to the reunion after all. I know there are bigger problems in the world than what I am going to wear, but this is the problem at hand. We are going to a cabin, so I think it might be a bit chilly. Do I wear a sweater and some jeans? A polo and jeans? My cute...not so dressy Eddie Bauer pants? AUGH! I just don't know. I have not seen many of my classmates for 10 years, so I would like to look good. I had hoped to have lost more baby weight...for crying out loud he is 15 months!!! I lost the weight way faster with Daeson. So, er goes the dressy, cute pants. It looks like I am going to root for jeans and a top...not sure which ones, but I will pick tomorrow as I am frantically trying to get ready.
I am making our cake right now. I will post a picture of it later with all the other ones. I decided to have our high school graduation picture copied and I will put that on the cake. I hope it turns out. I am not real thrilled with the picture, but it will do...and I accidentally broke Kevin Wangsguard's head...sorry Kevin!!!! But, either way it will be delicious.
There are many things going on tomorrow. I have to stop in Blackfoot at Ridley's to get some case goods. They are WAY cheaper than Broulim's. And, I don't like to shop there since I quit working there...it left a terrible taste in my mouth. But, after we stop there, we will go on to Pocatello to visit family. Then to Malad. Oh, Malad. I would like to stop at Thomas Market, I loved working there. Dennis and Jerry and Brenda were the BEST. Then off to get the kid's pictures taken. So, I have to decide what they are going to wear, too. Oh, boy! I will get to see my very good friends, the Hess family. Then I thought about asking the Flynn's of I could show the boys where I lived. I hope they let me. I never really got to say goodbye to our house. A lot of memories happened there. A lot of good and bad. A lot of hellos and goodbyes. I lived there the most influential time of my life. HIGH SCHOOL. The good ol' days.
I gotta run, cake buzzer just went off. DELICIOUS!!! Wish me luck!