Maui fun!

During our first sunset in Wailea, whales welcomed us here. A family swam the entire length of the horizon, not too far off shore. We could see their backs, then them surfacing and spraying, and jumping as well. They are so amazing.

Yesterday, we went for our last morning snorkel. Once again, a third time, we were happy to keep company with a huge green sea turtle. They are so graceful. I can't help but smile each time we have an encounter. I just love them. Also, while snorkeling, the whales were singing like crazy for us. You had to be pretty far out, and quiet, but we could hear them really well. The deeper you dove, the louder their songs. I think I love them so much because they are family. I love the fact that they travel together, and raise their babies here. It really is magical for me. (just in case you think I was hearing things, Peter heard it too. AND someone leading a snorkel tour not far from us, told us that's what we were hearing.)

We walked by 'the celebs' again, it's fun to people watch as well. We tried for the 8 and then 9 o'clock flights last night. But didn't make either - not enough room for standby. We'll try again tonight.

I love that Peter is so full of adventure. Lot's of people would be really bugged, and grouchy. He just takes it. We are worried about work first of all, in regards to getting home. And the kids, of course. But the kids seem to be loving every second, being with their gram and grandpa, aunts, uncles and cousins. So, they're okay.

I'm missing my little family terribly, though. I love each one so much. I hear their sweet little voices, and want to hold them so much. I am feeling rested and so ready to come home. My 'bucket' has been filled.

I feel so much closer to Peter, more than I have in many years. I'm so happy to know that we are still best friends and crazy for each other. I haven't held his hand so much in a very long time. It's been wonderful. I am SO thankful for him, and all he does for the kids and I. I truly do love him.

So - there you have it. Day five, in a nut shell. We explored the island a bit as well. Went up island, and a little west as well. We're having a fantastic time. I couldn't be more thankful to all the people that made this happen.

I love you.

Day Four in Paradise

Sunday in a tropical paradise is always wonderful.

We went to church at 9 am, “Aloha! Brothers and Sisters.” Who doesn’t love to hear that? What luck, it was Fast Sunday, and we got to hear it several times. I love hearing of living outside highly LDS populated areas. They spoke of their love of the gospel, their gospel families, and their deep testimonies for their Savior Jesus Christ. Of course, as usual, hearing these things always makes me want to move. Not just to here, who doesn’t want to move here? But to a place where there is more variety and you have to fight for what you believe in, making your convictions stronger. I believe.

We enjoyed the early afternoon sitting on the beach. We brought books, towels and snacks. Just listening to the surf, relaxing and spending time together. Heavenly.
Later, the Road to Hana.

Both being from a really green, lush and wild place. (Washington) We felt right at home. Warmer, of course, and unique foliage. The road was incredibly winding, very narrow and if you don’t know where you’re going, hard to find a place to stop. We didn’t know where we were going.

Over all, we’re here for the beach. So after a couple of hours, Peter and I were done with the Hana Hwy. We partook in the forested walks, saw amazing waterfalls, and felt we had a taste of this tropical rain forest. But we were done. We didn’t make it near as far as some, but quite honestly, we were here to see ocean. So we said Aloha! to the mountains and headed for Wailea.

The Four Seasons has a fantastic, free, small show at sun down. With ‘local’ dancers, and the blowing of the conch shell, welcoming the sunset. It was lovely, especially with some fun tropical moch-tails.

Early to bed, but first a bath and a good book. Vacation. Ahhh.

Birthday Blog: Meet Minky

As you may, or may not know, my sister closest in age is not in fact named Minky. Her given name is Melinda, but most people call her Mindy. Nearly nine years ago, though, a person we have known most of our lives wrote her name as MINKY on a sales receipt. We laughed and laughed. And then thought, actually...that's a PERFECT name for you! So, there you have it. How Minks got her name. My kids only call her this. And if they try to call her Mindy, she won't answer. "Excuse me" she says, "It's Minky, to you."

Mindy was born March 30th, and is two years older than me. Growing up, if she and I weren't fighting, then she was mothering me. I'm pretty sure that the definition of her name means, "Giving." There really is no other word to fully describe her. She's the kind of person that when you compliment something of hers, she asks you if you want it. For real. I think it must make her kids and husband crazy, her offering their things all the time. But she does, and she means it. And it's not just possessions shes giving with. It's time and talents, also. She LOVES children, and is always willing to watch others, at the drop of a hat. (you may have noticed this, as I am writing this from Maui - leaving my children with her much of this time) She's also an amazing hair dresser. She always does my hair for me on my birthday. (more if I'd like, but I don't like to get my hair done a lot) I haven't paid for a hair cut in nearly a decade.

As a kid, Mindy was the peace maker. (still is) She hates contention and fighting. She has always been the one I go to with any troubles. She took me shopping for my first training bra; her 12 and me 10. She gave me all the pointers of 'becoming a woman.' (too much info, I know) She made sure I didn't look too dorky on my first day of junior high. Through our years of school, she let me borrow her clothes, kept me in the "know" of all things cool, drove me around, let me be friends with her friends, took me to dances, let me cry to her, rubbed my back when I was sick, wiped my eyes when i was sad....and much, much more. We were the last two at home, so we spent a lot of time together. Family trips consisted of just her and I as the kids. (this is one of the reasons she and I wanted to take another coosh vacation together-living the dream)

Mindy is sweet, kind and funny. She's always been, by far, 'cooler' than me. (or than most people I know, for that matter) As a teenager, she always had cutting edge clothes and hair. When she was 14 she shaved (nearly) half her hair on one side and kept the other long, to her chin. (called a 'stab' I think) It was very cool. My dad yelled and swore at her at the Alderwood Mall for this. She looked good though, and was the only person I knew that would wear the cut. My parents got over it, and she continued being a good girl. Still is. She had posters of Boy George, Marylin Monroe and the like, all over her room. She had lava lamps, cool art work, and burned incense regularly.

Get the picture? This was all during the full on Debbie Gibson, MC Hammer years. Believe me, she was the coolest.

So what happened to all this coolness?

She's still got it. Don't worry.

She's still the nicest, most fun and loving person. She's even forgiven me for telling my friend how much she weighed when she was in sixth grade and I was in fourth. She still has the greatest hair, house wares, clothes, and cars. She's an amazing mother, friend, and wife. She is wonderful.

Really.

When her first husband left her and her kids, five years ago, I couldn't believe it happened to her. The most unconditionally loving person. One who loves forever, was being treated like garbage. (yeah, I think you know that I'm not most the things she is - so I was REALLY mad and NOT forgiving.) I hated seeing someone so loving and trusting, be squashed by the person she loved the most. BUT, never fear!! She moved on and has found true happiness. She married a wonderful man that loves her and her kids to death. (and beyond) She is happy. And this, of course, makes everyone she knows happy. Because remember, she is giving.

She gives what she has.

And she has happiness.



*As you know, birthday blogs are for laughs. Don't fear, my devoted fans. (all two of you) When I get back to my computer at home, I've got some sweet pictures of her to post. Don't fret! You'll laugh!)

Whale of a Tail

I don’t like exaggeraters. Or liars. And, as you know, I myself don’t like to do either. (see my problem with over telling the truth, post)

So, when I tell you my ‘whale’ story, take it for what you like. I’m not even real sure of it, but it still makes me hold my breath when I think of it.

While snorkeling the first time, this trip, another couple told us they saw a turtle resting near the edge of the reef, quite a ways out. So, for our first trip out (Peter’s very first ever) we had to go out about 150 yards, or so. (think football fields, here, girls – one field, 100 yards) I’m not totally sure, but even I felt a little uneasy, the further we got out.
But, sure enough. There, taking it easy, was a giant green sea turtle. (among many, many other cool things) I thought that was it. I’ve waited 20 years to see one up close and personal, in real life. I dove down, said hello, and enjoyed every second.

While out there, I heard a noise. It sounded like what one might think of as a whale. But, of course, I certainly wasn’t hearing a whale while snorkeling in Maui, now was I? (I have since heard other people say, that yes in fact, you certainly can – phew! I’m not totally crazy) A little bit later, I asked Peter if he ‘heard that?’ He said that he had hit his kick board with his flipper, that’s all he heard. I said, “No. It didn’t sound like a bonk, it sounded like whining, kind of like a whale. Hmmm. I must be hearing things.”

After another four or five minutes out there, something caught my eye, about 40 yards (maybe?) from us. A really big black and white ‘thing.’ Like the top of a fin/flipper. It was in and out of the water a few times. Being out that far, although it wasn’t rough, we were defiantly in swells. So, I would see it, then couldn’t then could, then couldn’t. Isn’t this sounding like a nice calm story?

In case you didn’t know this about me; I’m a panicker. I mean really. Like, “HOLY CRA*!!!!!” Kind of panicker. So I get to Peter as fast as I could.

(Please remember that I was a synchronized swimmer, and feel right at home in the water. I am a strong and confident swimmer. Also, please remember that Peter’s mom gave me all of his stuff from being a kid, and in it are his pass/fail cards from years of swimming lessons. I’m pretty sure not one, says ‘pass.’ In other words, swimming is not his strong point. But with the ability to rent Rx goggles, he has been MUCH better. Apparently being able to see makes a difference, who knew?)

At any rate, I go to Peter. Grab his leg. Pull on it as hard as I can. Then pull on his trunks like a crazy woman. I’m giving his arm the death grip, and shaking him. ‘Holy crap! A whale!! (huff, huff, huff – panic, panic, panic!!) Holy crap! Oh, my gosh! A whale! (I’m getting louder with each word.) Peter is trying furiously to see what I am. But remember, he can’t see ANYTHING without glasses, and his mask is now fogged, and we’re bouncing in and out of ocean swells.

“Right there. Look! Right there! Oh, my gosh! A WHALE!”

I now see a dark, shiny back of something REALLY big in the water. It appears and disappears a couple of times, then is gone. I’ve now seen the fin (?) and the back. (?) The water visibility is good for snorkeling at the reef, maybe 80 feet or so. But, as I look below, I can’t see that far into the distance, away from the reef. Above, fins and backs. Below, I can’t see as far as where I’m seeing on top. Peter couldn’t see it in either place. But then again, we were right on top of the turtle, and he couldn’t see that for quite a while either. Being out in the water and snorkeling takes some getting used to.

“We gotta get out of here. Now!” I say.

This is whale season right now, here in Maui. They come from Alaska to have their babies. It’s very exciting. Unless, of course, you’re the only people in the water, with like two people on shore, at 7:30 in the morning, and you have no idea what a whale would do if you were too close to it, and quite possibly, it’s baby.

Next thing I know, I’m half was to shore.

I look back to see Peter, still where I left him. Looking into the distance. I can hardly breathe. I am in total panic mode. “Oh-my-gosh-oh-my-gosh-oh-my-gosh…” We finally reunite, somewhere half way to where I left him.

All I can think of, is “Momma and baby in the water. Mother instincts can kill. Gotta go. Now!” I know that people say that these don’t attack, but I’ve seen discovery channel enough to know, that mothers do things they might not normally do if they feel threatened. And you know those “stupid tourists” who feed the bears at Yellowstone and are eaten to death? Yeah. I didn’t want that to be me.

I tried to calm myself a bit and stay out for a few more minutes. But in the end, I had to go in. Too nervous. I could hardly catch my breath.

“Thanks for leaving me out there.” Says Peter, once on dry land.

“Uh. Sorry. I was SO scared!” Then we had to discuss the noise I head earlier, and what not. Within 20 minutes or so, about ½ mile down the beach, there were whale watching boats. So, at least I knew I very possibly wasn’t totally insane. (well, not at least for this instance, anyway)

As Peter headed off to the bathroom, he turned around and said with a laugh, “I don’t want to hear about you seeing the Loch Ness or Big Foot while I’m gone, now.”

So there you have it.

The end.

Day Three in Paradise

Again today. In the water by 7:30. We went to a tiny little beach. It's very private, but a local told us yesterday that she always sees turtles there. So, off we went. We hurried to get in the water, before a beautiful wedding started on the beach. (we've seen four, now) And could you imagine the sight of me, in my bathing suit, ruining your wedding for life?! How awful. So we had to get in before it started, and out, after it ended.

Once in, we were in heaven. The reef was perfect. It was so cool to hear the conch shell being blown from the shore, as their wedding started. And about 20 minutes into the swim, I looked to my right, and saw the most graceful green sea turtle en route. He was HUGE, and perfect. I squeezed Peter's hand, getting his attention. Just like in Finding Nemo, he just swam right on by. Didn't even take a second thought to us. We could have reached out and touched him. Truly one of the coolest things I've ever seen.

We 'beach hopped' all day. We went to another really great spot in West Maui, then up north to Honuloa. (sp?) We had such a fun time, just being together, being adventurous. It's been a long time since Peter and I have had time alone. (Like, nearly nine years) It's been so wonderful to just be us. No interruptions during conversation, no one has to wait in the car with the kids while the other goes into a store, no arguing, no schedules. Just being together. I really am so glad I married my best friend. I can't imagine what it would be like to not be friends with, and love your spouse. I feel very blessed.

We also saw a mom and baby humpback whale having, 'whale lessons." Or, at least I like to think that. It was like this:

Mama, "Okay baby. Now slap your giant flipper as high and hard as you can. Like this!" SPLASH!
Baby, "Like this, mama?" SPLASH!
Mama, "Good. Baby. Like this." SPLASH!
On and on.
Then it was, "Now jump as high as you can out of the water, baby. Like this!" JUMP/SPLASH!
Baby, "Like this, mama?" JUMP/SPLASH!
Mama, "Good baby. Let's do it again."

We must have spent half an hour just doing this. They are the coolest. What amazing creatures.

In the evenings, before the sun sets, we walk around the resort areas and see what the other places are like. Like I said, the Waldorf-Astoria is pretty awesome. Last night, we went to the Four Seasons. More sightings here. But this time, is wasn't animals, it was people. Lots of beautiful people.

Again, in an effort not panic or to startle Peter, this time I just jabbed him in the ribs when Arnold Scwartsanegger (NO idea how to spell that) and Maria Schriver walked by with their kids. That we pretty neat.

But not nearly as wonderful as all of the amazing creations nature has to offer here in paradise.

Believe me, if you ever get a chance to come here.

Do.

Evening in Paradise, day 2

Ever been boogie boarding?

It’s the greatest.

I laughed so hard. I haven’t been since I was 12. It was sooo fun. Make sure you try it next time you get to the beach.
I didn’t even mind that my suit, every last inch, was crammed with sand. Top to bottom.

It’s a childhood past time that shouldn’t be forgotten.

Sitting and watching the sun set, with a family of whales swimming by, isn’t too bad either.

They really are amazing animals.

The sun set into the west, hanging low for such a long time. With all the colors of the day being pulled down with it. The cool ocean breeze, the streaks of clouds in the evening sky. Sitting with the one you love, enjoying God's creations.

What could make the day better?

A chocolate chip cookie dough blizzard in one hand, L and L Hawaiian BBQ chicken katsu in the other?

Yep. You’re right. That made the show complete.

Day Two in Paradise

Day Two. Out the door by 7, and into the water by 7:30. Who knew they rented ‘blind’ people snorkel masks? Not me. But this has been wonderful. Peter doesn’t like to swim because he can’t see. But now; He can! And see we did.

I finally got to hold hands with a boy and snorkel. What teenage girl doesn't dream of this? And, he's the man I love and married. I am truly, a lucky girl.

Sea urchins, parrot fish, spiney sea urchins, beautiful coral, lots more, and of course…our first Sea Turtle. He was as majestic as I have been imagining since I was 12. I’ve snorkled in Hawaii, Mexico and the Carribean, and never seen one. But have always wanted to.

And today, I did.

I made sure to ask him how old Sea Turtles get. (so I could tell my kids I did) He just lazily blinked at me. Oh, he was beautiful. Their markings and coloring are astounding.

At a black sand beach, later in the day, we saw three more. They were, of all things, playing in the surf. Tossing and swimming like crazy.

"Mr. Turtle's my dad's name, Dude." (Marlin, from Finding Nemo - if you didn't know)

They’d swim away, then come back for more. And at the beaches along the lava flats, we saw even more. Several more swimming, having a great time.

Yes. Today was wild life day. I’ll post my whale post soon.

Believe me, it’s a good one.

Evening in Paradise

Where do I begin? How ‘bout with the fact I can’t upload pictures on the computer. Bummer.

Don’t worry, not all is lost. I’ll share later.

Yesterday we drove around exploring the area. Spent the evening enjoying the scene around the resorts. Saw the ‘fire dancers,’ fun. We got caught up in the lobby of Waldorf-Astoria’s Grand Wialea. Wow. Those are the only words for that place. And the pool and grounds were amazing. Really, wow. Google it sometime, just for fun. I have pics, somewhere.
We sat in the hot tub and relaxed most of the evening.

Just one word here.

Ahhh.

Early Day One

Flight to LAX was just fine. Exciting, waiting for the next leg of the flight. Once in LA we waited for two hours, finding out in the end we got on the flight…going first class. That’s right, “glass” glasses. Lot’s of leg room, hot towel service, and ‘service with a smile.’ The works. Yes, I felt VERY spoiled and quite guilty. I hate having other people work because of me. Great time, though. AND, I got to watch two chick movies I’ve been wanting to see, while Peter got to see his action packed favorites at the same time. Perfect. Maybe we should consider ‘in-seat’ movie sets at home. I watched Twilight, and The Secret Life of Bees. I like the book much better than the movie, Twilight. And loved the Bees.

With the rush out the door yesterday, we didn’t even have hotel reservations yet. Peter has a gazillion hotel points, so we didn’t need to worry too much. We got a great room at the Marriott Resort in Wailea. I didn’t even have a pair of shorts or a swimming suit to bring with me. No worries. Costco is directly out of the car rental area, wonderful. We each got a new swim suit, (less than 20.00 each, nice) I got some clothes, and bought some snacks. A quick stop at Big K stocked us up on all the goodies that didn’t fit in our backpack or couldn’t pass through security. (literally, we each carried one small day pack – one for clothes, one for computer and junk. Believe me, we didn’t bring much. It’s Hawaii. )

So, sunscreen, toothpaste, Tylenol, a razor (I rarely shave my legs in the winters of Utah) mouthwash and hairspray – and we’re set. Nice.


*best part of Costco: At the entry where all the big use items are on pallets, you know? First big one here? Spam. Love Hawaii. Also, we didn’t use a cart to shop and the cashier looks at me and says, “no wagon?” I had to think for just a second. He meant cart. Funny how English is so different all over the U.S.

Our guide book says that ‘locals’ pack their “mainland’ faces when they travel ‘off island.’ Meaning their grouchy, in a hurry, unfriendly faces. Oh, I love it. Of course, people really do smile and are terribly kind here. Our bellman last night has five kids, is Mormon, his sister lives in West Jordon and his son is at BYU in Provo. Funny. Love the small Mormon world.

With the time change, of course I was up at 4:30 local time. That meant as soon as the sun shown it’s lovely Hawaiian face, Peter and I were out to the beach. We took an hour stroll, shoes off, climbed through some lava rock tide pools (shoes on, there) I put a sweet, small, fragrant flower in my hair – just for fun. It blew out, and I didn’t mind a bit. It’s Hawaii, after all.

I’ve already taken a nap. (11:30 am) been to the pool, layed in my bed and eaten cookies. Ahhh. The spirit of Aloha.

Who knows what the day will bring. I talked to Minks the Mom of the Littles today. She says all is well, but she doesn’t like people to worry. So I hope she’s telling the truth. And last night Gram said the boys were great. So far, so good. Keep your fingers crossed. I worried SO much on the flight over that I really did, almost throw up. I love them SO much and couldn’t stand if something happened to them or us.

While I am enjoying a little freedom, every little one I see, I think of my babies. Everywhere we go we comment, ‘Oh Si would love that.” Or, S”amuel could spend all day there.” “Roo needs that ‘hula-hula girl’ skirt” And, “oh, our chubby dubby – he’s so great.” Yep, we love our kids. And miss them.
Ohana.

Ohana, means family.

(or at least that’s what Lilo says.)

Aloha, Brothers and Sisters!

It's snowing today.  And a little rain, as well.  But I don't mind.

Not a bit.

That's because I'm getting ready to board the enormous Delta plane that just parked outside my window at gate D5.  

For real.

It's true, the stars have once again, come to order for me.  Also, known as, prayers answered. My parents, Minks, and Aimee have proven their weight in gold...again.  They have graciously agreed to take my kids for six days while Peter and I go to Maui.

This morning at 8:15 the phone rang.  It was Minky's amazing friend, Libby.  She works for Delta and had given Minks Buddy Passes, to be used by March 31.  (That's next Tuesday)  One thing and another has prevented Minks from using them, and she has shined her halo and straightened her wings today.  She gave them to Peter and I.

So when Libby called, she said Maui was wide open if we wanted to go today at noon, and come home next week.  SO....here we are!  With a lot of sweat, phone calls, vacuuming quickly, packing bags furiously, and driving like maniacs.  We're here, at the airport awaiting our flight.

I haven't quit smiling.  (Okay, except when I have been crying)  I'm VERY nervous to leave the kids.  I've never left longer than to have another baby.  But I have said my prayers, read my scriptures and feel good about the whole thing.  I can't wait!

I'll post while I'm gone.  But mainly because I can.  I won't have to wipe anyone else, feed four other mouths, or any other mother duties for a few days.  But I am already missing those mother duties, as well.  I won't get to hug my little ones, kiss their tears, snuggle their chubby little bodies, or hold their dimpled hands.

I'll be home soon.  With my bucket filled.  Next week is our 13 year anniversary, we've wanted to go to Hawaii from day one.  And here we go....

Thank you!  

Thank you!

Thank you!

My lovely family and friends!  This truly is a gift I can't repay.  But I'll try.

Love you.

(Just saw Missionaries on their way home!!!!  LOVE them!  Always makes me cry.)

Weekend Fun

Weekend in Review:

*The Scout Master off to "Little Sahara" State Park. (If you can't tell, this mean BUCKETS of Sand coming home to my house via shoes, pants, tents, etc. And a lot of campfire smells, as well.)

*Four kids playing at a GIANT germ fest; Classic Skating. Including, the worlds biggest indoor jungle gym. (think McDonald's x 10) AND, so very many huge blow up bouncies than one would not know what to do with.

*Baby having a "Super Puke." And I mean, SUPER PUKE! Right into the Scout Master's socks! Really. All over the bed, bedding, floor, and every stitch of clothing on both.

And, for the crowning moment?....(drumroll please)

A broken washing machine.

(Yes, I did spend several hours at other washing locations this weekend.)

Why I Blog

Here is one of the main reason I started blogging. This is one of my very treasured items from my childhood. It's a note my mother left to the baby sitter while she was out of town. I was six weeks old, and she was gone for a week.

Over the years, I have loved reading it. Over and over. It has given me a little insight into what life as like in my life, and the life of my family, back then.

This is the only written record I am aware of, that my mother kept. I don' t think she has journals, or any other record. I can almost see the busy house of five little kids when I read this. I have cherished this small piece so much, that I wanted to leave an everyday record for my kids.

Thanks for humoring me and reading my blog. You give me an audience to write to, someone to talk to. To tell stories to. Someday, this audience will be my children. And they will have some idea of their home and life as young children. And, hopefully, they will cherish this and find happiness in these memories.

(You can click on the picture to make it bigger. do you love how I labeled it "new born" in my baby book? How 'bout my really great puffy hand writing?)

Little Bit 'o Freedom

When Stacey comes to town, I get to live two lives. Just for a while. You'll get to read all about Stace on her birthday blog, coming up in May. She's one of my very best friends, who lives far away. Like many of my dear friends.

She, of course, has many family obligations when she's in town. So our time together, between our kids and other commitments, is spent late at night.


Sunday evening: Pawn the kids off on the TV (and Peter), take a drive gawking at our favorite local celeb homesteads. (These may or may not be Nie's place of residence and the like.) Convo's without kids, listening to fun music, and feeling a bit of freedom is a break for any mother of young kids.

Tuesday: Late night movie. A girl movie of course, Confessions of a Shop-a-holic. We were the only people in the theatre. We talked and commented out loud the whole time, and lounged all over the 'furniture.' And, of course, stayed up talking 'til 2 am.

Wednesday: Tanning. Sounds funny, I know. But I paid for a ton of tans last year and haven't used them, why not share? And because we only get to spend a couple of hours acting like we're 18 - we went tanning. Perused through Target until they literally dimmed the lights and closed. Rude. Got giant diet cherry lime aides, and talked 'til only 1:30.

Yes, I'm very tired. But ya gotta take advantage of best friend time when you can.

I hope you all get to spend time with friends you love now and then. It's refreshing, and doesn't happen nearly enough.

Movin' On

I sucked my thumb.

A lot.

I had a crib sheet that I carried day and night until I was three. Here I am in a peaceful slumber, 'sheet' in tow. (mouth open and drooling, to be sure, as well)

(Did you have this same pillow case? I've seen in often at garage sales and what not. Still have it.)

When I was three, my dad had had enough. He was going out of town on business, and by the time he came home, "it had better be gone." I walked over to the trash-masher (compactor) and threw it in.

That was the end of "sheet," and my thumb sucking.

Roo sucks her thumb.

A lot.


I made her a blanket, pink, soft and cuddlie, before she was born. Here she is napping at Minky's one evening last fall. Her "bebow" on her head. She loves to have it on her head to sleep, and will only suck her thumb with this VERY blanket.

Three weeks ago, I "threw it in the garbage." Not really of course. But she thinks so. She was terrificly sassy, one too many times.

So to the garbage with her blankie! (I know, I'm a very mean mom. I know)

She looked for it in each and every can in the house. I told her it was out in the big can outside.

"oh."

She has asked for it one time since then. After she saw a picture of it in her baby book.

Thats it. And guess who has totally quit sucking her thumb?

Yep. 'Lil Roo.

I think you can see here the problem. It became such a habitual crutch for her, that I felt it time to help her move on. She has picked every last tie out of it. (I have a couple saved for later laughs) All of the badding has been smooshed to the corners and it's actually gray now, dirty, and VERY, VERY loved.

She would get her "beh", put her thumb in, tickle her ear with the blanket, and her eyes would roll back in her head. Like a fantastic piece of the worlds greatest chocolate cake dancing in your mouth. "Ohhh, sweet heaven."

I'm sure many of you think I shouldn't have gone to such extreme measures.

But, the time has come.

Don't fret my friends.

I made The Roo a new blanket. Oh sure. She thinks it's pretty and the like, but it's not 'beh' and I know it. But I think it will be something she treasures.

My grandma sent home a piece of pink satin with my mom recently. She lives in Boise and once in a while I get a little piece of fabric, or a pattern here and there. I think I'm one of the only grandchildren that sews very much, so I get bits and pieces here and there.

The pink stripe trim is from Ruby's crib set that I made her when she was born. I quilted the blanket with flowers, dragon flies, leaves, and even put her name in the stitches.

The top of the quilt is fabric, sent again from grandma, but this was fabric that she and my mom made my mothers bed spread from in 1972. I've had this piece for several years now, and haven't known what to do with it.

But now I do.

I feel like this ties four generations together, just a bit.

I hope Ruby comes to love and cherish this blanket. It's a little bit of her, her mom, her grandma, and her great grandma. I hope in years to come, in lonely times, she'll feel the love of women who want the world for her. Who know that she can be the most amazing person. Who believe in her more than anyone. And that when she feels that no one loves her, as we all do, she'll know that she is loved.

And if all else fails, I saved 'beh' in my hope chest for her. She can get her trusty old friend out from her own hope chest, one day, and have a snuggle.

Strawberry Jammin'

Strawberries!

That's right! Strawberries are here!

Okay, so they're not really quite HERE yet, but they are being shipped here and are available for a less than a dollar a pound - and that means Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam at my house.

I bought 16 pounds, and used half of that for jam. The rest, we've eaten or frozen for smoothies.

I did make strawberry-mango-coconut ice cream for a yummy treat. Mmmm.

Here are the JAM photos. Doesn't it make you smile, just to see bright red, delicious fruit? It makes me happy.

I cleaned, cored and pureed my berries.

Added them to ALOT of sugar, cooked my pectin...

Stirred them all up - for a long time.

Meanwhile, the baby was in every cupboard in the kitchen. Peter came up with the worlds best 'play pen.' Thanks to a fully enclosed/zipped trampoline, this may be my new best friend.

Cleaned my jars...

The kids helped to stir, fill, and cap the jars. Everything always tastes better when more hands have helped, don't you think?

Here they are! Can you smell the sweetness of my kitchen? It smelled like fresh strawberry jam all Saturday afternoon.

Fun in the Mud

Yesterday my kids asked to take the hose into what will soon be, THE GARDEN.

aka: DIRT.

"Are kidding me? It's freezing, and NO WAY!"

Upon further thinking, I thought - actually, why not? They are kids, and I do make them behave a lot. Why not let them frolic in the mud? Everyone needs to once in a while, right? AND, since we don't live near the beach, they really don't get the dirt/water experience I wish they could. So...

"Okay, you can put the hose in the dirt, if you put on 'mud' clothes. AND, once you're out - you're out, no coming in until you're done. AND, once you're in you have to have your hair cut, shower and nails trimmed. Deal?"

"DEAL!!" They responded. And out they went!

They were out a LONG time!

Pink toes and hands, covered in mud. As we all know, mud is always more fun with no shoes.

I talked to my older, and wiser (sometimes, haha), sister while they were out, and asked, "Am I a bad mother because I let them do this, or because I'm not yelling at them to get in here?" She agreed that 'letting them' was the better option.

Samuel hates getting his hair cut. Here he is, mid cut. He's giving his best hairy beast look. "Argghhhh."

Cold. yes.

Muddy. Yes.

Dirty house after. Yes.

Lots of fun. Yes.

Back from Cellular Death

You do know that I am cheap, right? I mean, if I don't HAVE to spend money, I'd rather not.

Some people see a dinner party as an excuse to shop for a new outfit. I see it as a dread of having to spend money.

Lot's of girls I know shop to make themselves feel better.

I shop when I need to throw up.

I hate it.

I hate spending money.

You'd think I would be rich, in fact.

(Which, by the way, I'm not.)

SO, when the demise of my trusty cell phone came about. (See here for that horrible story. I can't believe it was before Christmas! Holy cow.) Some might see this as a chance for a fun time to get a neat new phone. Not me.

Hence, the fact that I haven't had a phone for a couple of months. (still paying for one though, arghhhh.)

When my friend and my sister said, "ENOUGH! You need a phone!" I said, "Great! Do you have an old one you want to get rid of?"

And sure enough. Thanks to Aimee's phone and Mink's battery...

I'm back in cell-phone-action. Oh yeah, baby.

(Remember when the pink razors where all the rage? Don't feel too bad for Aimee, though. She has an iPhone now. And Minks has some other super fancy hand held yabbi-di-dabba. Poor them.)

(On a side note: I promised myself I wouldn't store the new/old phone in my shirt any more. But can you guess where I had to get it from to take this photo? Yep. You guessed it. What can I say...pants with pockets make me look even larger than I already am. Sorry.)

Green Goo

Green Goo - Day Three.

Yep. The Tennis' are goin' green! (We do out part to recycle, but that's not what I'm talking about)



A bunch of veggies, some handfulls of fruit, and Wah-Lah! Healthy! (for three days, so far, anyway)


It really looks and sounds much worse than it is. In fact, we all quite like it. Even the kids are loving it. Who knew my kids would love spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, squash, swiss chard, kale, and the like? Not me. But they do. Of course the apples, bananas, oranges, pineapple and what not cover up most of the other gobbledygook. (That really was a spelling word in high school - love it.)

Mmmm. Okay, so I do tease that it looks like something we might find in Chubble's nether regions, but we all just laugh and go on sipping our Green Goo.

Wife of the Scout Master

Do you have one of these at your house?

If you do, your husband must be Scout Master, like mine.

This is the Klondike Sled. Don't ask. Stored, conviently in my back yard.

I think Girls Camp is the greatest. But it happens in the Summer, not the dead of Winter.

Boys. They're crazy.

But they do like to have fun. Don't they?

How else do I know my husband is Scout Master? (Other than the fact that he's gone every Wednesday night, at least one Saturday a month, a week each Summer, and whenever else they need him?)

*There are two GIANT yellow and red water coolers in my garage.

*There are random packets of hot cocoa, instant oatmeal, and Gatorade bottles scattered throughout my house.

*There are several very long wooden stakes with orange flags in the shed. (used for some kind of compass course)

*We have more sleeping pads laying around, than there are people in my house.

*Backpacks, tents, and sleeping bags are stashed and shoved into every last inch of the storage room.

*Need a Nalgene bottle? I seriously must have more than 10 in the bottom cupboard of my kitchen - and their lids explode out of the misc. drawer above them at any given moment.

*Scout belts, shirts, pants and patches are here, there and everywhere.

Yes, I am the wife of the Scout Master. And, I quite like it. Don't tell Peter though. He likes to think I "don't support him" because I complain. But really, it's kind of fun.

The kids are great, my kids LOVE all the Scout action that goes on around here.

I think the thing I love the most, is that my boys want to grow up to be Scouts, too. They want to be with their dad, doing all these cool things. I'd much rather have them want this, than many of the other options out there.

Over all, being the wife of the Scout Master isn't so bad. He's kind of cute in his uniform, too.

Mystery Foods

You know how I feel the lack of a little “culture” ‘round these here parts, right? Well, one area we’re doin’ pretty good in, is that of the Latin American type. I wanted to share a little of that with you all today. Hold on tight, and you might have to cover your nose while reading. (And remember, I, like most of you, am a spoiled American.)

I went to Mexico and Guatemala when I was 19 years old, was there several weeks and had a fantastic time. Life changing, in fact. I learned so very much, grew through amazing experiences, and attainted an appreciation for a very different way of life.

One major part of my trip, was – OF COURSE – the ‘experience’ of the food. It was like unfolding a mystery. “People really eat things like this?” I ate cows stomach, not the lining of the stomach, THE stomach. And it was furry.

I don’t need to say more than, “woof” for you here.

But it was part of the ‘experience’.

I saw stars I’d never seen before on a remote lake in Northern Guatemala. I basked in torrential down pours in rain forests. I climbed most of the ruins you’ve seen on the travel channel, and lots you haven’t. Bats hung above my bed while I slept in my mosquito net. I saw the lives of people that have been, for the most part, untouched for thousands of years. I swam in the clearest waters and smiled at schools of the most heavenly fish. Words can’t fully tell the imprints this experience left on me.

But the food. The food was amazing. And quite frightening, at the same time. I have loved the cultures of Central America since my first Spanish class. (Remember my tree trimming post, and my fantastic Spanish abilities? Yes, those classes.) But many of the smells and aromas you encounter in these Latin American countries are part of the ‘experience’. Ones that I think of when I think of visiting these far off lands again.

So, recently when I was in a local Mexican Tienda, I was blown away. And not in a good way. One of the things that astounded me in Mexico, was the smell of their carneceria’s (meat markets). They wreak. I mean, like sweaty, hot, stinky meat. Guess what? I think they can import the smell to the U.S. now. Really. I had to put my nose in my shirt and leave. Which in Central America, is pretty much just the smell in most markets. Here, we cover ‘that’ up – or try to keep it at bay.

I came home and told Peter about all of the fun things I had seen; and smelled. The store was, seriously, just like the stores there. Fresh tortillas being made and packaged right there, the shelves packed and messy, great looking produce, international phone cards being sold everywhere, and – last, but not least, meat stink.

I think we should leave that ‘mystery’ there. Let’s save that for the, ‘experience’. Okay?

Well, yesterday I got the local grocery ads with my mail. And, there of course, were ads for the latino mercados. So, in an effort to show you a little of the ‘mystery’ I think is better left south of the border, I took some pictures for you. And here they are:

Yep, right next to the "Fresh White Corn" you can hurry down and get yourself some "Beef Tounge." And only 1.49/lb. Sheesh, my tounge would cost a lot. Huh? Anybody need to see "the big tounge?" Just for fun? You let me know, and I'll get 'er done for ya.

And, mmmm. Beef feet. Has no one driven by the farm and seen what these beef feet have been standing in? Really? I'm sorry, but I just don't think these look, or sound, that great. But at .59/lb, who can argue?

And, a little of my favorite here. Patitas De Pollo. (Please note how they put the english second here, so as not to scare off any native english speakers) These were being served to me, one eveing in Southern Mexico, but I politely avoided them. Cluck, cluck.

Now, I'm sure that these things aren't the worst. But I think I can safely say, that for me, none of these are on my top list of "super yums." How 'bout you?

I think I'll leave the 'mystery' for my next exciting 'experience'. But thanks anyway.

Wierdness in Utah

What the heck is that, Teresa?!

You tell me.

No, it's not salt.

No, those aren't paint speckles.

Yep.

After climbing out of my workout gear the other day, I noticed this:

Dead skin. Gross.

Flakey, white speckles. Woof.

I never knew this happened, but apparently it does.

I grew up in the land of lush green forests, lots of rain, and NO need for hydrating body lotion. While I think I use lotion here, like once a week, I am thinking this is not enough.

What do you think?

In an attempt to find something about dry weather in Utah, I found these:

Wikipedia said, "Utah features a dry, mostly desert climate..." Uh, duh. Really?

But even better (funnier) was this:


Topix.com said, "Utah isn't a dry state & it isn't illegal to serve alcohol. However, it does have some of the dumbest liquor laws around..." Ahhh, Utah. Gotta love it. What controversy.

The Swiss Family Robinson, 2009

This weekend, we watched The Swiss Family Robinson. Twice. And later, that meant we had to PLAY, The Swiss Family Robinson.

Chubs stood watch at the door. Banging on it most of the time. Babbling for the big kids to play with him.

Roo pretended to be Leisel, or whatever the girls name is. (Apparently, the girl is insignificant in the film, as the boys couldn't remember her name.) Ruby always has to find a part of their "play" - and it's always 'the girl.' Everytime I stepped out on the deck, she'd yell "And your 'Mother,' right mom?"

And here are Fritz and Ernst, left and right respectively. (sp?) But they had to have no shirts, climb in the fruit trees, and carry weapons.

Yes, I agree that living like The Swiss Family Robinson would be fun.

At least for a little while.

Look Who's Walking Now

That's right folks! You saw it here first. That's Mr. Chubbles walking- yep, walking! Hooray! 13 months, foot loose and fancy free.
Look out, here I come.
He has been toying with the idea of walking for a few days now. But today he took off. Walking across rooms and what not. The older kids have been cheering and clapping all day for him. He loves it. We're all very excited for him.

And, I just had to share some of these super chub cheeks. They get chubbier by the day. *squish* *squeeze* *squish*

This guy takes his food very seriously. Really. If he seems grouchy for no reason, more likely than not, he wants more food. Can you you tell? I know he's a little on the light side. (wink)