So this week has been busy and crazy!!! As you saw in my last post, I had a class scheduled for yesterday - the most adorable altered book ever!!! We took holiday Golden Books, unbound them, added scrapbook pages between the originals and bound it again - so darling. I'd been anxious to get the class example done - and found out my products for the class wouldn't arrive until the MONDAY before the SATURDAY class! Trauma! So my intention was to whip it together once the stuff arrived. It got here Monday and I started organizing it into the four story categories - so the papers would coordinate (Frosty the Snowman, The Night Before Christmas, The Poky Little Puppy's First Christmas and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer) then when I got home - I was rushing to get the kid's dinner before our Scout leaders came over to introduce us to the Webelos Program. As I'm showing my masterful cooking skills, I pulled the boiling water off the stove and proceeded to pour it into a Cup-Noodles container held in my other hand - problem is - I used a pot I don't usually use - and the handle is shaped weird - therefore - the boiling water rushed down my left hand and for the rest of the night I went from hand in ice to crying when I took it out. I couldn't work on my book and I got so frustrated! I didn't go to bed until around 1:30 that morning because I just couldn't find a way to sleep with ice on my hand. I finally got a bag of frozen green beans and slept w/ my hand on a towel all night. By morning - surprisingly it wasn't as horrifically painful as the night before - but I still had to be careful. Well - I did get the book done and photos taken for examples - and my class started to really fill up. I was up late every night this week - because I also did a second example book - as well as prepping 27 kits of four varieties. Not an easy task. To top it off - I had a Silpada party and girls' night Friday evening. But on the morning of the class - I had 2o of the 27 spots filled and when I arrived at my store - exhausted at 9:30 am - I saw the most beautiful sunrise . . .

My class went fabulously - and by the time I left . . . I had just one full kit left and two books that had been taken out of kits sold to people who had their own books. Not bad - we'll see if those were sold after I left. Hope so.

Now - after that huge push to the finale - like when I'd go home after a semester at college - my body is shutting down. I'm so tired!!! I slept through not only Dan trying to wake me up this morning - but church as well. I fully woke up and got out of bed around 11:30 - so needed!

So this week I've had to re-tell my idiot story of how I happened to pour boiling water over my hand - and I tried to take a photo - but none of them showed enough discoloration to justify the sympathy I'm craving - so I scratched that. Instead I've talked a lot to Emery about her burn - some of you have shown interest in her healing and current status. Well - here she is . . . (you can click on the photo for a better look)

Beautiful as ever - with this huge scar across the entire top of her hand. For those who don't know - in the summer of '06 she and Harrison were goofing off on the treadmill and she slipped - landing behind the treadmill with her hand somehow crushed between the belt and the back of the treadmill. Without the quick ninja skills that he's now developed (sure!) - Harrison didn't turn it off right away and the belt continued to burn the entire top of her hand off. She had a horrific burn as well as fears of broken bones. Fortunately - the bones weren't shattered at all. But that started months of medicating, dressing and protecting her open wound. And lots of discussion on the decision for a skin graft - which we still feel isn't necessary. Sweet little girl - she doesn't think much of it - the thing she hates the most is when people ask what happened. She's just sick of explaining it - but the scar itself doesn't bother her. She was a sweetie when I got burned - and my pathetic injury is nothing compared to what that little girl went through at 5 years old.

So my skin started peeling off yesterday - and the pain is gone - just a slight sensitivity - and a desire never to make Cup-Noodles again!!!

What I've been working on

Altered Little Golden Book Class

Desktop Calendar Class

Been A While

So - I haven't had much down time to sit and write a thoughtful entry . . . and haven't had the energy to write a mindless one either. But right now - there are (7) 10 year old boys, one 8 year old girl, one 4 year old boy, and one 2 year old boy upstairs - playing in harmony - in celebration of Harrison's birthday - we're a few weeks late - remember I said I hadn't had much time lately - well . . . we kept forgetting to plan a party - so we finally nailed it down and here they all are. Surprising to this mom - it seems boys don't want planned party games or structured activities - they just wanna hang out and play. Also surprisingly - they are all doing well together. This doesn't happen very often. Even if you get the sweetest, best behaved group of 10 year olds together - this never happens. I'm waiting for the blow . . . and thought I'd throw in a blog update while I wait . . .

Here goes -

Harrison's now 10 - and a blogger - check out the link to his creativity - sometimes he totally amazes me!!!

Emery's as sweet as ever. Only thing is - I find traces of nail polish in odd places. Like on the underside of my bath rug - pretty sure it was on the other side during the covered up incident - and besides notes that she talks to much - she's doing great in school.

Jack and Aidan got horrible hair cuts today. I know I need practice, but man oh man - I let it get so shaggy until I break down and pull up the courage to do something about it. I need to do some trimming tonight.

Dan's fabulous. He cleaned our bathroom today. I have a mixture of feelings - first - I'm totally grateful and in awe and relieved . . . then I'm totally offended. Yep - wondering if he's just fed up with the layers of kid toys, soap scum and hair spray residue so that he can't stand it anymore. I try to suppress the latter feelings with the joy of a clean, non-sticky surface. I don't deserve this guy.

I saw New Moon last night and although I was much more impressed than the "after school special-esque" first installment, I was still totally not into Edward. He's just not the guy. Oh well - the effects were cool and the fight scenes were great.

So now that the party boys are playing "WARS" - I fear for my breakables and smaller children. I better go make sure all are in tact.

Coolest - Night - Ever!!!

Whoa - it's late, but I had to get on and share . . . tonight we went to the Lion King - took Harrison, Eme and Jack. It was amazing - beautiful - spectacular. After the show, we got to go back stage and see costumes, props, etc . . . a once in a lifetime opportunity. Jackson was in awe all night. On the way to the car he said he wanted to stay there. Had to explain that even the actors went to a hotel for the night - no one stays there to sleep. I'm sure he would have loved sleeping next to Pride Rock. In his words, "Mom, Pride Rock is awesome!" I'm sure standing next to it made an even bigger impression.

Very cool night!

Favorites Right Now

Aidan's "I wub you. too. mommy"
Edamame
Regarding Annie
Finished Projects - both for the store and home
My Calvin Klein Jeans - in an acceptable size even!
Taylor Swift - what a cutie!
New Moon Trailers - I'm giddy w/ excitement
TMZ - total guilty pleasure!!!

Potty Trained (at over 4 yrs old!)

Remember how frustrated I've been off and on for over a year and a half - with failure after failure of good-intentioned, patient beginnings to potty training Jack???

Well - he's done - potty trained - dry through the night - no messes done! I love it!

You know what it was? Just his own desire - that's it - something that cannot be coaxed out no matter how shiny the prize! The deal was . . . he'd get a BIG Lego set when he was potty trained - then a date w/ mom was added - then other incentives along the way - but all those things spurred nothing until he'd turned 4, decided he was a big boy, and his 2 yr old brother was asking to go potty consistently - and pooped in the potty w/ a HUGE celebratory mom dance! So Jack decided it was time. We put the incentives into place . . . he got a, um, ehem . . . pee ball every time he went pee and one taken away when he had an accident - colorful ping-pong balls - and when he filled up the jar, he'd get the Lego set and a date w/ mom. THEN - completely separate, when he went poops, he got to choose a little something out of the prize box. Worked well - but only AFTER he'd decided it was time to work on things. The jar was filling up for an entire week before any pooping occurred - but he finally was forced to face the fears - he'd been showering and when he emerged sans clothing - he needed to go - and since he didn't have anything to catch it . . . well, he got on the potty and realized it wasn't scary after all. No problems after that! So - after filling the jar - we went out and he got a HUGE Lego set and graciously allowed Aidan to join us for our date to Red Robin - we were then supposed to go to the Zoo to finish off our date, but he opted to get straight home and have me help him assemble instead of waste all that time at the zoo. So I'm a very happy mommy - I'm wagering that Aidan will be trained within 6 months - if not sooner. We're not doing anything to push it or refine it . . . just letting him go if he asks. The Lord knew I'd need an easy time of it after Jack - thank heaven!

Here we are at Red Robin!

Facebook Fears Confirmed!

As you can see . . . It's been QUITE a while since posting . . . my life's been busy, hectic, crazy, full and downright frenetic . . . so there were plenty of reasons I steered clear of those "you gotta join FB" comments coming from all sides of real life and cyberlife. So - all my fears have come to fruition - the far too many email notifications, the time commitment to learning the ropes and the pure OCD behaviors I exhibit when I want to do something well. So . . . jumping in has been hard for me - and still - not so sure about it - but I do LOVE seeing people I haven't seen for ages - decades even. Am I really THAT old? Yes . . . I am.

So - as I try to commit to my blog - and FB - and not forget my husband, kids and oh yeah, my business . . . don't laugh at me when I'm not thrilled about it.

It's a love/hate thing -

On a positive note . . . check out THIS site . . . I had my Blog published into a hard-bound book - a "journal" if you will - justifiable as following the Prophet's council, right . . . anyway - I love it - THIS will be my first entry in my next published Blog book - no wonder I took a Blog break - it was my subconscious saying I was done - complete - finished - after all, it was being published with a back cover . . . wasn't my intention, though . . . so I hope to get back to good blogging, I mean, journal writing!

Also - been working on getting all my negatives to disc and organizing my photos - thought these were cute!!!

1998 & 2008 - I'm still trying to convince him that I can be fun!

Anti-Tatoo at three!

So - I'll get to explaining the title in a minute . . . but (not surprisingly,) I have an entry totally dedicated to my little Jack Jack. First - he now has a new little bike . . . a girly bike Dan found at a garage sale . . . but Dan says, "It's not a girly bike, I took the tassels off!" Hee hee hee!!!

Here are some words of wisdom that have come out of that cute little mouth lately . . .

* The other day we were driving along and he says, "There are so many tatoos on all the cars. I don't like it!" I asked if he meant all the stickers and he answered in the affirmative. He may be taking after me . . . simple and clean, that's how I like things.

* Not too long ago, Harrison and Emery were talking about something like H2Oasis or day camp or something . . . and Emery thoughtfully put her hands over Jack's ears so he wouldn't hear and feel bad that he wasn't involved. When they were finished and she took her hands off, Harrison asked if he knew what they had said . . . he replied, in an awe-struck voice . . . "I don't know . . . something amazing I guess!" Oddly enough he didn't even ask to find out what it was.

* Also - the other day we were in the car and I asked him about a new little girl he met at church. He said, "She's pretty. (pause) But not like you." "What do you mean, Jack?" I inquired. "Not pretty as you." (Aaaaaaawwwww - I love him!)

* He's been volunteering to pray every meal and bedtime . . . and one of his favorite things to ask for - is "bless us with help to cross the street." ????? Since we live in a culdesac and don't really need to cross streets to get anywhere we go - I don't know why he needs assistance, but it's so darn cute nonetheless!

* And the kicker . . . our primary does a spotlight or two every week and one week when they spotlighted one of the kids - the spotlight child says, "I was born in such and such place." Jack declares loud and clear, "I was born in the water!" tee hee hee . . . can't argue with that!

Another bike wreck

The other day the kids went for a bike excursion with Jack and without permission - so Jack goes down this horribly long and steep hill on a plastic trike with no brakes - scrapes galore and plenty of screams - out of the blue - just to let us know he's hurt. So in the aftermath, the girls (Em and her friend) and Jack are watching a Barbie movie and under my breath as Harrison's leaving the livingroom I mention that I should punish him by making him watch a Barbie movie. To which he answers, "No - but you can tie me to a wall." Hmmmmmm . . . is Barbie that much torture?

Something to stir the pot:

So - I'm pro life. I just think there are too many alternatives to end the life of a baby before it's born. Starting with abstinence, but we won't get into that today. Then there's planning and protection and straight up responsibility . . . then there's adoption - to which I believe is the answer to a lot of prayers . . . our best friends have reveled in that blessing and seeing that first hand - it's hard to swallow the argument "Pro-choice" since in most cases those choices have landed one there in the first place! I do acknowledge that there are cases where a woman has NOT chosen the events leading up to conception - or where a woman has not chosen to sacrifice her life just to risk a possible sacrifice of her baby's as well. Yes, I acknowledge that there are a very small percentage of pregnancies that should end. But that decision should not be taken lightly . . . and the term "unwanted pregnancy" should explain it all . . . if it's so unwanted, steer clear of the situation . . . see my alternatives above . . . or think of your own!

I also believe we, as humans make mistakes - we are all flawed, so I'm not trying to point out those who believe in abortion to be evil - quite the contrary - I believe all lives to be of very high value . . . case in point -

Anyway, I didn't intend to be on this slippery soap box, however, the link below led me to post . . . If there were more "Abortion Survivors" to hear from . . . I think the world would start to take a different stand.

(Thanks to Ms. B for sending me the link!)

http://www.shininglamp.com/page2.html

I have a writer on my hands

Harrison is a very gifted child . . . and in a very good way . . . he's read far beyond his grade level since he's been able to put the abc's into context. He loves stories and has an amazing imagination. If you've never heard his version of the three little skunks and the big bad porcupine, you should ask him to share it with you . . . because the sound effects alone are golden! Not to mention the clever vocabulary and story structure. Anyway - he had the opportunity in class to write and illustrate a book, then bind, sew and produce an amazing hard-bound copy of his masterpiece . . . "The Case of the Missing Jerky Bits" which has kept our family on pins and needles with curiosity of how it ends. Let me tell you - it was worth the wait. The day he brought it home, we went for some McD's shakes & ice cream and an author's reading. Fabulous I tell ya'!!! Love the ending!

My cute little pig

Here's the scene . . . the kids are making mud pies on my deck and I strongly admonish them to get it cleaned up before I go out there again . . . in the kindest way, of course! So much to my dismay I see them passing back and forth from kitchen to deck with one of my pitchers - what'dya gonna do??? Anyway - I go out to inspect and see my little Jack Jack rolling on the deck . . . hmmmmm - he says, "I'n a pig roying in da mud. Oink"

He just can't get enough of the outdoors!

It's quickly becoming apparent that Aidan will be an outdoors kind of guy . . . He LOVES being outside - doesn't matter the weather. He brings us shoes, mittens, hats, you name it - if it's outdoor gear, he brings it . . . we wants it on . . . and he wants to go outside. He is giddy and happy out there . . . but if you bring him in . . . be ready for a HUGE melt-down. It's strange to see our little happy dude put up such a tantrum - but it's true - he'd probably sleep out there if we'd let him!

My Sweet Eme

So about 2 weeks before Emery's baptism . . . with the weather starting to allow for outdoor existence, Emery headed out to ride her bike. Not 10 minutes later, she comes inside and tells me, "Mom, I had a feeling of danger outside. I don't know - but like an animal or something like that." So we talked about her feelings and that our Heavenly Father speaks to us through the Holy Ghost - in promptings and feelings . . . we talked about how she may never know if those feelings she had were because of real danger, or just a fear. We talked about how glad she was that she followed those feelings regardless . . . and she went on to play inside.

About 30 - 40 minutes later, Harrison and Jackson were out on the trampoline - with a view into the next culdesac over . . . they came inside to tell me they spotted a moose over there - hmmmmmmmm . . . Emery and I concluded that perhaps this moose had been closer to our house - in the woods that run along both culdesacs - and maybe just maybe - her being outside alone was not such a good idea. The next morning . . . from our front door - we saw the moose again. It was hanging around our house that week . . . probably more than we knew. All of this was a perfect and beautiful lesson for her - just 2 weeks before her baptism. It solidified her understanding of the Holy Ghost and gave her experience in feeling and listening to it. After she was baptized, she was confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and given the Gift of the Holy Ghost - a constant promise to have that spirit with her to guide, comfort, warn and testify of the truth. We are so proud of her - she really is a very special daughter of God!

The older I get, the more I realize . . .

Democracy exists so the quiet voice can be heard.

I admit it . . . I was TOTALLY into American Idol this time around - from the first humiliating auditions. I think that's how you get sucked in . . . if you see those first horrific clothing ensembles and wails with the humorous criticisms, I mean critiques - surrounding a gem or two, you get stuck on the couch, same time twice a week . . . anyway . . . I was a Gokey fan through and true until a generic, common-face cutie started showing his guitar and piano talent accompanying a great voice and fresh, genuine style - that continued with each and every theme . . . being just versatile enough - but being so . . . well . . . Kris. So yes, again I admit . . . I voted - with two phones - for almost the entire 4 hour voting block. Silly - I think I've only voted twice before - a couple for Underwood and a bit more for Cook - just to say that I added my opinion . . . but this time - it was on principle. I really like Adam . . . really, I do! And no one that voted for Kris will say Adam isn't an AMAZING singer - with stage presence and conviction. However . . . after he butchered a Johnny Cash song (don't ever do that!) - and repeated his token tongue-out-of-the-mouth scream and token smoldering look into the camera and token Elvis snarl in each and every song - throwing in a few extra here and there . . . well . . . it all got too predictable. And boring. And dare I quote Simon, "Indulgent!"

So marking my checklist off . . . great last performances by Kris - check, Gokey fans likely on his side - check, doing my part to vote as much as possible - check, hoping the Lambert "Rock God" titleling (is that a word) would work in Kris' favor - check . . . I still worried. Especially as I watched the final results show . . . with enough star power to fill the milky way . . . it seemed very much a build up to Lambert's final performances . . . really, do you think they spent half as many Idol-bucks on Kris' celebrity duet w/ Keith Urban (who I LOVE by the way!!!) and set as they did on Kiss' makeup, elevator, platforms and fireworks show??? Not to mention those sparklies outlining Adam's eyes - probably real diamonds. I thought for sure it was all leading up to Adam's crowning moment when Kiss, Queen, Kara and all of San Francisco would circle him - lift him to heaven and watch him rule the world.

Then it came . . . the moment when Ryan announced Kris' name and he couldn't believe it himself! It's one thing being called the underdog, and quite another when they throw an "UNDERDOG" labeled feeding dish out at lunch time only half full with dry pellets while you see your competition fed with a silver spoon every delicacy available on the planet . . . no wonder he was surprised.

But this just proves my theory . . . that voting is the only way to hear the quiet voice. The loud voice just cannot believe that Kris won - have you seen the horrible things on the internet - the accusasions, the excuses for why Adam didn't win??? Homophobia, fear of those who are artistic, shutting down anything different!!! REALLY? Maybe, just maybe the majority is made up of people who DO like Kris better - who prefer his style - who would rather just quietly vote than scream from the rooftops or laptops that their King is superior.

It's happened with Prop 8 - the majority has spoken
It happened when Bush won - twice - the majority spoke

So it makes me laugh a little bit when that loud voice claims to speak for the majority - cuz what I'm hearing is that Kris Allen is the new American Idol!!!

"What's YOUR favorite part of the day?"

So every evening when we're sitting at the dinner table, we go around to each member of the family and ask, "What was your favorite part of the day?" The tradition then expanded to begin with "What was your worst part of the day?" first, then move on to the best . . . so yesterday . . . before dinner, mind you . . . Dan and I happened to be in an appropriate embrace accompanied by a kiss. Jack was nearby and out of nowhere we hear, "THAT was the worst part of my day!"

A few hours later, out of curiosity of its impact - Dan asked Jack, "What was the worst part of your day?" To which he responds, "Seeing you guys kissing."

Easter Morning

It was a fun Easter Morning - the kids enjoyed candy and a few toys in their baskets - and one of Jack's little gifts was a Mickey Mouse Pez dispenser . . . with additional candies as well . . . but in Jack's way of making everything more hillarious - he comes over, a little annoyed and says,

"I didn't order this!" 

"Really?" I said "Do you still want it?"

He replies, "Yeah." and goes on his merry way. 

Easter Tradition

Last year I started an Easter tradition of making "Resurrection Rolls." These are the yummiest carbs on the planet! Plus they have a special Easter Message with them. Once they are baked - they are hollow rolls, representing the empty tomb. Here's how to do it:

Dip marshmallows in melted butter (and look - I used an egg coloring dipper - it's pretty handy!)
Roll the buttered marshmallows in cinnamon sugar

Cut Pillsbury crescent rolls into squares

Pinch seams closed and put the marshmallow in the center
Wrap the marshmallow in the roll - make sure all seams are totally pinched and sealed - or the marshmallow will melt out of the roll during baking.

Cover the dough with melted butter.

Roll dough in cinnamon sugar again.

Bake as directed on package. - If marshmallow does seep out of roll, remove roll from pan while still hot - or it will stick to the pan. 

Another piece of advice is . . . DO NOT eat one of the marshmallows dipped in butter and rolled in Cinnamon sugar . . . if you do . . . no amount of Weight Watcher meetings will help!!!

Anyway - it's a great thing to do with the kids while talking about the resurrection. Plus - they really are great - I put them right up there with cinnamon rolls on the delish scale.

More for my book on adorable tornados . . .

The other day we're in the car and Jack makes this enlightened statement:

"My candy tastes like beaver  (pause)  beaver tastes like onions."

Apparently Mug wins!

Today we went to Taco Bell for lunch - got Jack a Rootbeer - guess it tasted different than other rootbeer we've gotten at other fast food windows:

Jack: "This is different rootbeer."

Me: "Hmm, really?"

Jack: "It's candy rootbeer." (with plenty of enthusiasm mind you!!)

Me: "What?"

Jack: "Candy rootbeer."

Me: "Does it taste better than other rootbeers?"

Jack: "Uh huh."

Me: "What's the other kind?"

Jack: "Chicken rootbeer."

I did it!

So Saturday night I set up a stool in the kitchen - and begged Harrison to be a good sport while at the same time bribed Jack with a big Airhead (candy) . . . and I cut their hair. I got a set of clippers and told myself to just go slow and start with a longer extention . . . cuz you can always go shorter . . . so I'm pretty happy with things - I got Harrison and Jack done . . . but I'm procrastinating Aidan - he's more wiggly and less bribe-able! I do hope to get better and better - at least in knowing how to cut them individually - they both have some strange hair patterns and cowlicks - if anyone has suggestions as I learn this, let me know!

A Rare Moment

So Aidan's limp continued and worried us enough that we decided to have his leg checked again - another set of x-rays and another no-break diagnosis . . . today he's doing great and seems to be almost back 100% - but that day we were back in the Dr's office, I was worried - again it was during his nap time and he was going to need snacks and toys - so I did go a bit more prepared, knowing we'd be there F-O-R-E-V-E-R!!!! Fortunately, at one point, he did fall asleep in my arms - a VERY rare moment!!! My kids have all been pretty good at going down to sleep (as long as they were in a crib). We'd just put them down with a kiss and walk out - made for a little less enjoyable day at church - when rocking them to sleep would have come in handy - but instead, they'd fuss fuss fuss because we didn't just have a bed to lay them in - anyway, it was a very rare and sweet moment. Not often have I had the chance to just hold my sleeping baby (after infancy) and it was so calm and peaceful. A moment just for us - He's a snuggle bug and I just love him - with a little sadness in his growing up - it just goes so fast!

Jack Jack - I could write a book!

So not only is it obvious to me that my children are growing up in the last frontier - it's also obvious that they are growing up in the age of technology - even more than Dan and I did - Jack and Dan were setting up a board game - Trouble . . . as they put the yellow pieces on, they assigned a player to that color, then the next and the next - until they realized there were no red pieces . . . so Jack says, "The computer will be the red one." I can only laugh and attribute it to our new Wii Family Game Night - with all the old board games - and if you need another player, well the computer will be the red one, I guess. Man is he cute!!!

Jack was teaching Aidan the fine art of medicine - using the salad tongs as a stethoscope! He may be able to bypass his residency, don't you think? Ah my genius child!

Ashes, ashes were falling down!

A week ago yesterday (Saturday) we had our first ash fall in Anchorage. Our lovely Mt. Redoubt (which I call a wart because of it's nuisance in keeping travelers from vacationing! I'm not bitter or anything!) has been spurting a bit here and there for a few weeks - and we were able to steer clear here in town - but we finally got our share. I was out in the afternoon doing errands w/ Jack - bank, etc . . . and we stopped to talk to some friends we saw on the side of the road - she was stressed and trying to get her 3 daughters back home because they were getting ash fall at the park. That was the first time I noticed it . . . by the time I got home, it was obvious - there was a slight white coat on parked cars. There were small particles on the inside of my door from having the window down - it was a bit strange. When I got home, we quickly put away the random items the kids had left outside and felt the ash like a little snow flurry . . . and went on as if we were still going to our token office dinner - the booby prize for those of us not soaking up the sun in Vegas . . . we did end up going to dinner. We arrived at the downtown mall as they were closing everything down - stores were shutting their gates and security guards were directing teens to the exits. The restaurant remained open however, so we enjoyed a fine dinner commiserating with other BHB employees void of tans and relaxed, massaged muscles. After dinner we went back out through the mall to our car . . . have you ever been in a dim, empty mall before???? A bit creepy . . . Dan strengthened his role as comforter when he pipes up and says, "Nothing good ever happened in an abandoned mall!" Great - thanks for reassuring me all's well!!! Fortunately, we didn't see so much as one security guard - Got to our car and drove home. This photo was taken the following day - don't know if it's as obvious to those who didn't see the before and after, but the ash cast this dingy gray over the snow. It wasn't the bad situation it could have been - or that we were braced for - fortunately the ash particles of that day were too large to cause lung damage - so all in all, a blessing. It did give me a glimpse though of the possible fear of natural disaster - Dan was a bit more thoughtful when it came to leaving the kids w/ a babysitter during a potenitally stressful situation. Me . . . I was excited to be out - and curious to see first-hand the effects of the testy volcano.

It's not over yet, I guess . . . but I hope the worst is past.

Nothing to say . . .

I just thought this was cute . . . his cut is almost totally healed - and his eyebrow is almost grown back in from being trimmed with the bandage - but he's sure a cute little bug! A bug who needs a haircut!

His silly antics keep him alive!

Really - if this little tornado wasn't so darn cute . . . and love-y . . . and hillarious . . . and sweet down to his toes . . . and compassionate . . . and imaginative . . . and friendly . . . and humorous . . . I'd have shipped him off a long time ago - but I just can't live w/out my little Jack Jack - there's something special about this little kidd-o, I'm tellin' ya! He DID have those jammies on correctly to begin with - what do you think he was going for here? Hoochie? Middle Easterner? Psychotic sports fan? Who knows - but when he comes running in giggling and obviously anticipating your reaction - it's the cutest thing on the planet!

Advice anyone???

Oh, I'm SO not foolin' w/ you today - these are really my fingers. I have the worst and most persistent cracks this year than ever . . . probably because I'm always handling paper - and working more w/ my hands - sometimes 7 out of my 10 fingers are throbbing with open cracks - that's when the slightest bump makes me want to cry - OWCH!

I've spent most nights slathered in lotion or cream with socks on my hands - I've tried to wrap them strategically with waterproof bandages - up to 3 per finger sometimes . . . just for a little crack!!! Still - no luck!

So - anyone have any remedies? And any suggestion on how to prevent it???

Great day!

So thanks to all the well - wishes . . . I had lots of great birthday sentiments.

Made up for all the stress of my not so perfect birthday!
*Taking my two little boys AND another little guy visit teaching
*Jumping my van because I left the radio on for less than 2 minutes
*Spending over 3 hours back at the Dr's office getting yet more x-rays telling us Aidan doesn't have a broken leg . . . even though he's still limping!
*Taking all 4 kids to the store so I could invoice new product

But it all ended well when Dan came with cake, a rice crispy treat, Target gift card and flowers - then when we got home, there were more flowers and a pie on our door step - then watching American Idol w/ Dan. Guess it really WAS great - especially cuz we did the official celebrating yesterday - Dan took the kids for me - I got to work the store w/out them . . . then we had pizza for dinner (no cooking is a great gift!) and I got Twilight & Dan watched it with me. So - now that it's not my b-day anymore (12:20 Wednesday) I can say it really was good - but you can tell I'm tired - can't form a sentence. Going to bed - thanks to everyone who called and couldn't catch me - I appreciate your calls! Lots of love! Tonya

Oh - almost forgot though - we saw a mouse tonight - well, (I) didn't - but Dan, Harrison and Emery did. EEEEEEWWWWWWWWWWW! Guess I gotta get some mouse traps w/ my gift card!

Growing Up

This little girl had NO IDEA what lay ahead of her . . . where her life would lead . . . what she would become . . . it's all so unexpected . . . oh not the part of growing up, getting married and having kids - that was always part of the plan . . . but living in Alaska, being married to an attorney, having more sons than daughters . . . let's just say there've been a few twists and turns I couldn't have dreamed of. All in all - I'm living a very blessed and fulfilling life. I'm not the best me, but I've come through some challenges and experiences I never would have thought I'd have, let alone make it through. I'm lucky to be where I am - both physically and emotionally - I just want to work on making those experiences and lessons shape me better. I'm not as strong as I envisioned myself - I'm not as positive as I expected I'd be - I'm not as accepting of the  unexpected as I should be . . . what does it really matter anyway, right? I'm getting more and more OCD the older I get - maybe because I'm holding on tight to those things I CAN control, which aren't many, and to others may seem too trivial . . . but still - I hold on. 

And even though I have a longing to better myself in certain areas, I can't discount those things that have allowed me to experience the euphoria of empowerment and strength. I'm living up to some things I dreamed, but also reveling in some that never existed in my life's desired experiences. 

So - another year older, more experiences, more disappointments, more joys, more triumphs, more challenges, more love and admiration. Maybe by this time next year I'll be a better me - a better wife, better mom, better friend, better teacher - if I were to blow out candles right now . . . that would be my wish. 

Jack Jack

Wow - another post . . . the kids are supplying me with plenty of material - plus, I'm doing a month in review class each month and I'm finally taking lots of pictures and paying attention to what's going on a bit more closely - 

So anyway, the other day Jack got the rare quarter to blow on a piece of bubble gum at the grocery store (pun intended only if you got it and thought it was funny!) Anyway, he was so thrilled. But after chewing for a while in the car - he pipes up and says, 

"This gum is the same taste as a sucker."

me - "Oh yeah? Same as a sucker, huh?"

Jack - "Yeah, it's creepy."

Not strange, not cool, not weird . . . creepy! I guess that's one way to look at it!

Boy Scouts = Success

Lately Harrison's affinity for Boy Scouts has been lukewarm at best - but one night he came home more upbeat with a new bird-feeder in tow. He put it up the following day and waited and waited for signs of birds . . . the problem was - his buddy Nik said he'd gone through all his bird food cuz the little fouls were coming by the droves . . . and still . . . all seeds accounted for at the Kent home. Until one morning when the seeds were gone and little birdy tracks were found all over our front porch - we've filled it back up a few times and the kids LOVE watching the little feathered friends fight for the food. Aidan's been the most mesmerized. I'd say that THIS project for Scouts was a huge success.

Little Old Man

A week ago today I was in our Doctor's office lamenting the possibility of Aidan's leg needing a cast. The night before - he and Harrison were sliding down the McDonald's Playland slide - Aidan's leg got caught under Harrison's and from that moment on - there were tears, flinches and no weight put on his right leg. So we got him an appointment and the little trooper did well for about an hour and a half - even through the X-rays - but the last 45 minutes (when the Dr. was tracking down the images from radiology) he just wailed. Not because of the leg - but because he was so tired and hungry - and probably frustrated, too, that he couldn't just run around like normal. There were no visible breaks - and nothing to be done - so we went home hoping he'd get better on his own. He's shown improvement daily - but he's still limping - he looks like a little old man shuffling around. When he's serious about getting somewhere he just drops to the floor and power-crawls. 

He absolutely LOVED this magnetic puzzle in the Dr.'s office - and immediately started moving the pieces from their complete position. I was shocked that he knew just what to do and had the coordination to do it. He's growing up so fast. My baby's not a baby anymore!

I should be in Vegas!

Yep - Dan and I should be enjoying a much warmer climate and hotter night life! We were scheduled to be in Vegas by this morning . . . but funny thing happened . . . this little wart on the planet called Mount Redoubt decided to finally send a bit 'o ash our way - we've been warned for well over a month that the volcano could blow . . . and so far all activity has kept the ash away from Anchorage and the flight paths . . . until now . . . flights have been cancelled for two days straight. We've been checking both flight and ash status and been on a number of wait lists that desolve with the cancellation or delay of yet another flight . . . we ARE booked solid for a flight that leaves Monday around 1 am and our return flight on Monday around 4 seems to be fine as well . . . just enough time for Dan to hit 9 holes - pending highway traffic, of course! So - our get-away weekend is squashed and my beautiful pedicure will only be seen in the shower - when I'm not wearing thick winter socks. It's been snowing all day - makes this wound sting of lemon juice!

Just an update

Here are my two little guys - they need haircuts! I really wanna learn how to cut their hair myself - three boys - lifetimes of haircuts - it adds up to quite a bit I'm sure - I could probably do the whole beauty school thing for the price - maybe I'll just find a tutorial on youtube - anyone know how to become a master stylist from home?

Then here's my beautiful Eme - we did her hair on Sunday and Harrison says, "You look like Sarah Palin." Let's not take into account that { I } have been doing my hair like this for YEARS - nope, she doesn't look like mom, she looks like Sarah Palin. Darn Media!!!

 

I feel lucky!

I've not been in the best mood lately, but through the stress and work and pressure, my kids have made me laugh - not always the easiest thing to do ! ! ! 

Last week was Spring Break - oh so happy it's back to "normal" now - but last week I'm in the car w/ all 4 of the offspring when a conversation ensues between Harrison and Jack. Now, I am not totally sure what it was about - but I began to impart my wisdom . . . probably correcting some song lyrics or identifying the difference between a crocodile and alligator or setting them straight with something - don't remember, but Jack pipes up and informs me in the most irritated tone, "We're having a meeting back he-re!" Guess I didn't get the memo! 

So last week Emery was "shoveling" and Jack ended up rushing in the house blood and tear-stained . . . no stitches needed, but some sweet looking "Indiana Jones-esque" injury to show for it - I dunno - the kids came up with that to help him feel like a man, I guess = anyway, that was last week and the bandage is almost gone after multiple trimmings of loose ends - so today he knocks his head on a door knob and comes in to me crying . . . and because I'm always the most compassionate, kind and forever tender mom (insert sarchasm) I let him up on my lap while working at the computer and start humming a Bugs Life song and thumping my hand (lightly) to the beat on his back . . . which leads to his comment, "that's not gonna make my owie feel any better!" Oh he's so darned cute. The things he comes up with - the wisdom in that little 3 1/2 year old is mind-boggling. On a better note - there's progress in the potty training area. Still in pull-ups - which I used to swear I'd never use . . . but he's dry 99% of the time - a very rare wet accident and a little more common messy accident - but hey, it's progress . . . the kid's just got too much else he's excelling at to be great in this area as well (I'm good w/ sarchasm, right?)

Because you never know when the time is right...

A friend of mine (this is Dan) is working overseas and found this sign outside a construction site. It's way too funny not to share, so I jumped on Tonya's grand stage here to share it. Sorry dear!

My kids are definitely Alaskans -

So we're doing errands today and Harrison says to me . . . "Hey look at all those sweet snowmachines!" as we pass some lucky people pulling a trailer full of "toys." No one here calls them snowmobiles - so it caught me funny that yes, my kids are more Alaskan than lower-48  - and more Alaskan than me. This is all they know or remember. There are still things that are "different" for me from my up-bringing, but to them - it's totally normal - just a regular part of their lives - like recess in single digits below 0 - and moose - and dark winters/light summers - bed-head in public - it's all perfectly normal and they don't think twice about it - but for me, it still not second-nature.

WHAT TIME IS IT???

It's 12:58 AM!!! What are we doing? Dan's watching golf (don't know how we're both awake! It's just not as blood-pumping as basketball) and I am sitting here next to him catching up on blogs. Every night we're up late we blame each other and swear we won't stay up late anymore . . . but there's just something about being up late a-l-o-n-e!!! We haven't been getting enough us time - so we cut into our healthy sleep time . . . no wonder I'm more often than not grumpy and tired! But at midnight - I'm usually happy to be sitting by my man!

Strong friend - strong influence

It's been a while since updating . . . about as long as it's been since I stalked my favorite blogs . . . I start with my sister's of course . . . then I check out the happenings of an Alaskan family in Saudi Arabia. 

Today I stopped there so I could share the influence of this amazing family . . . (I miss you Michelle!)

So out of the blue (at least to the rest of us) this fabulous young family with three little boys announces that within a few weeks, we're losing them and a compound in Saudi Arabia is going to be their new home. 

I can't tell you how absolutely amazing this family is. Both Dan and I have gotten to know them through church callings and social ties - and we both really feel a void. But I tell ya'! They are living an amazing life and seeing amazing things and teaching their boys amazing life lessons. 

How inspiring!!! I pull a lot of strength from their stories and experiences. I just can't say enough of how much I admire them. 

Miss you guys so much!!! Lots of love and prayers - and keep updating - we love it!

So - now I'm off to see how far down my list of blogs I get before I have to give up and get something done.

Me and Darth Vader

So pretty much my 9 year old thinks my business trip was totally cool!

My Jack Jack

"That was totally wicked!!!"

(I have THE cutest kids!)

Consta-Cookie

Hello,I'm back.If you remember me than you should know that my name is Harrison.Anyway I would like to tell you about how glad I am to be writing on my Mom's blog for the second time.First off , today as I was eating cookies I found a cookie that looked like a Constalation.The picture on the top shows "Orion's Belt".The picture on the bottom shows the "Big Dipper".It was craaaaazzzzzzyyyyy.Plus in the background you can see my lego Star Wars rebals and a rebal skout speeder I made.Thank you for reading.

As if there isn't enough winter outside . . .

My children are trying to preserve it!!!

(I'd hate to be the opposing team for that snowball fight! Ouch)

Bloggin' ain't like bike'n

You know the old phrase - just like riding a bike, right? Well - I have had moments of good blogging - and it's just not easy to get back there. I have no idea how to get back to good blogging. There's no time . . . no energy . . . no news . . . well - that's not entirely true - I'm just out of practice. Maybe it's more like playing the flute . . . I did get good at it in Jr High - but now the only thing I can do is the C scale . . .

ANYWAY - enough of my blogging philosophies - but I miss it - so I'm going to try harder.

Things are going well in the Kent household. That is - if we're not talking about Lego issues. Harrison is a Lego fiend - he's passionate about putting them together - not just the specific sets - but he's great at making his own creations - then there's Jack - who's Lego interest could not be more polar opposite. He LOVES pulling things apart - pulling all the itty bitty pieces off. You'd THINK that'd be a great combo - one loves to put together, one loves to take apart - BUT . . . it's more of a war zone when Harrison finds out Jack came across the latest creation. SO - I'm getting sick of being the Lego police. The only thing that keeps Harrison from slaughtering his brother is that I tell him we'll separate the Legos and they can only play with their own sets - that simmers things down a bit. He'd hate to loose access to Jack's sets.

Today I found Emery packing her play suitcases - she was on her way to Hawaii. Lucky girl. She's so darling - She's constantly giving me notes and cards - I just love her.

Jack's as far from being potty trained as he was at 18 months. Heaven help me!!! I've told him we'll buy a BIG Lego set for him when he's potty trained - but the other day as I'm cleaning up one of the WORST poopy's EVERY - he asks if he gets his big lego set now! WHAT!?!?!? Good thing the little guy's so darn cute.

Aidan's getting sassy - no more of this content and complacent baby - oh no . . . he's got the screeching and wailing down. But I've got two or three re-enactments from Baby Einstein movies that make him forget his woes and laugh.

And even with all the pulling out of my (recently going gray fast, by the way) hair - they are the cutest little people ever and make me smile every day. I love being their mom.

More crazy updates to come . . .

Pray that the Volcano doesn't erupt on us - love you all!

January in Anchorage

Hi there!!! Yes, I'm still here . . . very busy, but still here. I really wish I could do it all - get everything done and have an up-to-date, killer blog - but I guess I'll have to grow into that. I have been getting a lot done at and for the store. It is really taking on my vision and I am excited about it. I'll take photos & post them soon. I've gotten to the point where I'm more excited for having bought it than freaked out, so I guess that's good.

Today is the third "snow day" in a row for canceled school. I had no idea that we here in Anchorage were having such horrible weather, what with the national news coverage all about the eastern and central states . . . you'd think that their chilly weather was the be-all/end-all of stories - well, we've gone from persistent double digit below zero to double digit above zero - now that doesn't sound so bad, but add that once it started warming up we had inches of thick sheets of ice with a thin layer of water all over the place - freezing rain - and now up to 100 mile an hour winds and well, BEAT THAT EAST COAST!!! Waaaah is all I can say to them!

As for our cute little family - the kids are loving that they are having a 6 (yes, I said SIX) day weekend. Seeing how they have had these 3 days off, then the regular Sat & Sun off, then the MLK holiday on Monday - that's almost and entire WEEK of my kids - just after that long Winter break. They are sweet, but the root of the issue is - they get sick of each other. But they ARE cute and we have been able to get out a little. I think the person in charge of calling snow day is just simply not in the mood to go to work. That or maybe they don't foresee using the budgeted-for snow days and need to take advantage of them . . . regardless, it's not been THAT bad. Remember - we're the TOUGH ones when it comes to harsh weather conditions.

On another note - my dear husband twisted his ankle this morning playing basketball - now, he's not new to this swollen, painful ankle situation, it's happened once, or twice, maybe more . . . so he says, "There's nothing they can do about it." - So here's the question - do I MAKE him go see someone - or just wait to see if it starts to improve????? Men - they're so darn tough you gotta admire them - that or just think they're absolutely crazy stubborn!