Sunni's World

High Fashion

2011-02-04T06:18:00.000-08:00

Feb. 2011 begins the "Sunni White gets her photos organized session." Last month was "Sunni White organizes the storage rooms," but really, thats what doors are for...right? As long as it shuts whatever's on the other side is completely acceptable. No, no I didn't organize anything last month. Whatever, the dust will hide the lack of organization so who cares. Don't judge!

With January safely behind me I can quit ignoring my storage rooms and focus on Feb. (yes I have to abbreviate February because I'm not sure how to spell it... FebUary, Febrewary, Two...) (abbreviate is also hard to spell) Remember, no judging!

So as I was going through some pictures I found these high fashion photo shoots just begging to be shared with the world. Here you see Aspen modeling her 2 year old cousin's lion Halloween costume. Pretty sure I saw that on the runway in Milan later that same month. You go trend setter! (Yes Ashlee, that's you in the back ground waiting patiently for your turn to try it on.)

Here we are in the always popular women's size 6 shoe isle at TJ Maxx. Glorious was the day we discovered that our shoe size is waaaaaay ahead of our puberty. From the lack of hips, up to the standard pre tweener aeropostal tee and innocent smile face is Aspen at 8 years old. From the skinny jeans down to the hooker heals you see Aspen at 16 grounded to her room for even THINKING she could leave the house in those shoes!
Here she is again strutting the size 6 run way, head held high snubbing the flats and Easy Spirits. I think she may have her eye on a blinged out shoulder bag to complete her look.
Well, at least there's some fashion hope for one of the White girls in our house. As I scanned through pics of me I'm slinging an REI backpack and a pair of chacos in most of them. Although I think we need to find a balance between 6 inch heels and the shoeless flower child.

2010-08-12T22:56:00.000-07:00

Its Salt Lake County Fair time again. The fair seems a little bit magical to me. This year scenes from Charlotte's Web keep popping into my head. I've watched the 4-H kids get older, like Fern growing up with Wilbur. Some turned 16 and are now dating and driving...a little like Fern and Henry Fussy. And the past week has been full of preparations for the fair with Linda helping us wash and Boyd helping us shear lambs... like Mrs. Zucherman giving Wilbur a buttermilk bath. There may have even been a stow away that made it into the sheep trailer. Maybe as I type one of Charlotte's cousins is spinning a web over our sheep pens. Heaven knows there will be plenty of flies for it to catch for it's supper. And of course whether in rat form, or human there is plenty of glutting going on at the fair. Funnel cakes, Sno cones, Texas Tornados and the roasted corn smothered in mayo, then coated in parmesan, then sprinkled with chili powder, then drizzled with lime juice (Nacho Libre style) I've waited all year for an ear, and yes I HIGHLY recommend it!

Gage is wrapping up his 2nd year in 4-H. This year "Jack" the sheep has been the center of Gage's affections. Weighing in at a whopping 134lbs. it's much bigger and more stubborn than last year's model, "Tina".

Trace getting in touch with his inner sheep. Somebody loosen the chain around his neck!!

Aspen has been waiting all year to visit the petting zoo at the fair. Same animals as last year...just bigger!

Gage and "Jack" spectating at the pig races at the fair. Jack's ticket is tucked into his halter, but alas he didn't win... I guess he doesn't have that animal instinct of being able to predict things. We'll just have to leave that up to Puxatauny Phil.

I'm a little bit sad (even though I've cursed the lamb and the early mornings more than once this summer). This will probably be the last "citified" 4-H experience for us. I think my aunt and uncle are ready to retire after 25 years (a fair share of those years have been dedicated to kids other than their own). Who would have thought that hanging out in a stinky dusty barn with a bunch of sheep could be missed. And like Fern sang to Wilbur, "There must be something more to us than you and me...the something more I'm feeling must be love."

This is the end...

2009-08-24T22:28:00.000-07:00

My heart has been pounding all day. My little Trace is leaving me for a world of big yellow school buses and white paste. I can't believe how time flies. We all use that expression, but that's because its true. So to you mom's out there with one baby on your hip, a dirty shirt on and another baby clinging to your leg, stop. Just stop and sit down on the floor with them and love them, cause as we know, time really does fly, and before you know it they will be waving to you from the window of the big yellow school bus. I love you Butter, and I miss you already!

Maybe wickedness really is happiness...

2009-08-11T08:19:00.000-07:00

In the Book of Mormon, Alma ch. 41:10 it reads... "Do not suppose, because it has been spoken concerning restoration, that ye shall be restored from sin to happiness. Behold, I say unto you, wickedness never was happiness."

Last Saturday we went to Greg's family reunion at Lagoon. It was my first opportunity to experience the ride "Wicked". Love love loved it. If you haven't you really should try it. And if you have, you know that it is deliciously wicked. And of course, if you have been anywhere on the planet you have heard of "Wicked". You know the little musical that tells the wicked witch of the west's side of the story from the Wizard of Oz. If you haven't seen it and don't have plans to, well then I probably can't be your friend anymore. It is fabulous and a must see, with a great twist. So really if I have to choose I might be swayed?!!?!

Farewell to "Tina"

2009-08-08T23:20:00.000-07:00

The Salt Lake County Fair and Gage's first year in 4-H has come to an end. Gage spent hours and hours working with his sheep at the farm, breaking it to lead, practicing how to show it in front of the judge, feeding and jumping his lamb. Not to mention 4-H meetings and trainings, service projects, and a portfolio. It has been an awesome experience for him, and for me as well. It has been great for Gage and I to have some time together, and because we were both rookies we learned a lot together too. I think if you have the oppertunity every kid should try this at least once. There are great lessons to be learned when you are responsible for another living thing. Things are a little obscure in the beginning, not knowing what needs to be done and when. Then when you get to the fair, you just commit your whole week to hanging out there to do whatever might need to be done.

Then the big day arrives. Nerves are high, sponsors are locked in and your little boy is at the mercy of the judge and a lamb that may or may not behave no matter the amount of training he put in. Its a sweet little victory when as the rookie, he places 2nd in his group in market (how good your lamb is) and is invited back to the star class, and 3rd in his group in showmanship (how well you handle yourself and the lamb).

Then comes the auction. From the beginning you know this animal is being raised not as a pet, but as an animal that will go to the packer to be slaughtered. I warned Gage against naming him. Which he unaffectionately did anyway, "Tina" (because it was as stubborn as Napolean Dynamite's Llama.) But somewhere along the way I didn't take my own advice. I fell in love with the farm and the stupid sheep, and after we cleaned out pens tonight and marked them and sent them away it was hard to hold back the tears I knew were bound to come all week, I just expected them to come from Gage. When we got home tonight I sent Gage in to get ready for bed and I had a cry in my car. I told Greg earlier today that I felt bad knowing the lamb's fate and he told me that I wasn't a very good farmer. And well, he's right. Gage on the other hand did his job and when I asked if he said goodbye to it he said "Yes, and I told it not to be so stubborn in heaven." If that isn't his dad's matter-of -fact out look on life I couldn't give you a better example.

Who could have known all the lessons we would learn in 4 1/2 months.

Lights, camera and we're back in action!

2009-05-13T21:06:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I decided to catch up for the whole year, well most of it all on one blog. Hopefully I still have someone out there who cares...

If you had any question, this is why Greg and I don't take our kids out to dinner. The blue and gold scout banquet is about as fancy as we get.

Gage getting his Wolf at the blue and gold banquet.

Happy Bday Dr. Seuss! Aspen's class did everything Dr. Seuss. The lunch ladies even got involved and the kids ate green eggs and ham at lunch. Yum!

Say cheese! Somebody got braces! What was I thinking? Noone told me it was going to be a year of canker sores and an hour of flossing each night, O.K. Greg did try to warn me, I just didn't believe him.

Happy St. Patty's Day to all. We had a great time at Mumsie and Papa's house. There was everything green to be had, and even some gold, and it wouldn't have been complete without the leprechaun village.

Papa, Mumsie, Trace, Gage and Aspen making "loot bags" for all the gold left behind by some little leprechauns.

Trace all decked out in his St. Patty's Day wear.

Leapin' Leaners and lowtops was really fun this year. Its Larry Miller's charity dinner with all the Jazz players, yummy food and a silent auction. Me with Coach Sloan.

Greg in his proud moment of winning the Dew Tour tickets in the silent auction. Skate or die, dude.
April Fools! Trace and I made tiny "hamburgers" out of vanilla wafers, mint patties, red and yellow frosting and green coconut. They were fun and a hit to leave around the neighborhood, with a note saying we made "dinner" for them.

Unlike some people who have uplifting packets for their kids this is what we do at our house during general conference. For the record we did the packets too, (thanks for always posting those Annie)

We all know the story of "The Little Red Hen", well Aspen will be the only one allowed to eat anything out of our garden this year. She was such a good little planter, now if only I remember to water consistantly we should have some yummy veggies!

Aspen and I decided to try purple carrots this year...stay tuned to see how they turn out!

Soo, its humbling to walk through a sea of people at the gateway and to know that they are all there to support people like me. Some of my family and I participated in the MS walk. It was huge, there was tons of support and I was soo proud of my kids who walked 3 miles for me.

Gage came up with "The Clementines" for our MS walk team name. He sported this t shirt and he and Trace had orange hair for the event.

Top left: New cousin-in-law Landon, Mom, cousin Lexie, aunt Terrie, Dad, cousin Ben, mother-in-law Lou-Lou, Me, Aspen, Grandpa Jim, Trace, sister Ashlee, and Gage

Aspen the hula girl

Gage is the hula champ of the South Jordan Elementary's 3rd grade class. Care to challenge him. I wouldn't. His teacher finally told him to stop after like 5 minutes. Go Gage!

Trace plays for the Reds this year in baseball. He is playing machine pitch and loving every minute of it. It was bad when we had a bunch of rainouts at the begining, I quit telling him when the games were until I was positive we we're playing because he would get soo disappointed.

Trace getting some good advice from dad who helped out as 3rd base coach.

Notice the dirty pants? Trace doesn't understand that there is another option besides sliding into home plate.

Trace my multi-sport kid just tested for his yellow belt. The good thing about Tae Kwon Do is that it is an indoor sport (so I won't freeze while watching him in the winter) and Master Kwon has done an excellent job of teaching him respect for his parents! (love that!)

Trace thought the rose was a little silly that he got along with his new yellow belt, so he used it as a prop for his antics as Aspen watched from her seat hoping he would give it to her.

Switching from white, to yellow.

Serious business.

Our first zoo trip of the season. I usually by a pass and then wonder why I'm supporting caged animals. Although I will say that the new enclosures are much nicer than what they used to have. Plus I love that area of Salt Lake and its close to Aunt Ashes and the twin babies who will be taking lots of zoo trips with us this summer! (Gage brought his friend Shad)

So Gage is the proud owner of a sheep! He is participating in 4H this summer. My uncle and aunt have done 4H for 25 years, and Gage couldn't be more happy to be involved. They have a small farm by their house, and Gage would live in a tent in the pasture if I would let me. He's super excited, and hopes to follow in the footsteps of aunt Cyd- who won Grand Champion in her hay day!

Gage getting his sheep tagged for the county fair.

Hooray for Trace! He got his blending badge at Challenger today, and brought home his first book. He was soo excited to read to me, and then to read it to his dad over the phone.

That's all folks!

just checking in

2009-01-05T21:08:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! Sooo got your new years resolutions set? I asked Greg the other day about his resolutions and he told me that he doesn't make them, because you should live your life the best that you can everyday. I punched him and told him he didn't know what he was talking about (one of my resolutions is to not hit). Just kidding, actually I think its a great outlook. On Sunday our gospel doctorine teacher talked about Sacred Sundays, and Magic Mondays. On Sacred Sundays you use the day as a time to go to church, study, nap, spend time with family, prepare lessons... On Magic Monday you use that as a day to "reset" your goals or new years resolutions. So each week you can take and inventory and have a fresh start if you need one. I really liked the idea that if I botch a couple of days or a week, Magic Monday will be just around the cornor to reset and regroup. Thank goodness Monday comes around every week!

Anything new?!!

2008-12-07T22:08:00.000-08:00

OK, so I've added a couple more of our recent family pictures. But other than that I have nothing to tell! This whole post surgery sitting on the couch thing is driving me CRAZY, and I don't even have a new curvy augmentation to show for it! (For those of you who don't know I had a hysterectomy) I do love the holidays though, and have had plenty of sit in front of my charlie brown tree time. Maybe one day we will finish the basement and the kids can have their charlie brown tree in the basement, and I will finally get my "Amy Peterson tree" to proudly display in the front room window. Other than that SNOOZE! I'm going to call the police department tomorrow to tell them we need an officer on 10th west to catch the speeders so I can watch out my window and have something to occupy my afternoon!

Thankful List

2008-11-28T14:03:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for so many things...

...for starters, my family. Greg and the kids have taken such good care of me while I've been on the mend. I had know idea that Greg could be such a good nurse/housekeeper/taxi... thanks, honey. I'm also grateful for a free country and those that sacrificed everything to allow me the freedoms I enjoy everyday. I'm grateful for the gospel, and the peace and comfort it brings to me, it balances my life and helps me to focus on whats really important. I'm thankful for good, thoughtful friends, and for the great examples for me. I'm usually thankful for my challenges because as I reflect on them I can see that they were only for my own good, and helped me to learn and grow. I'm thankful for love, because love truly does conquer all, and is a fierce emotion for good. And I'm thankful for laughter, and for how good it feels to laugh until your eye are watery.

A "million" pictures

2008-11-16T13:23:00.000-08:00

My friend Michelle has a "million" of everything. Even though its her phrase, I have to borrow it to update my ancient blog now that my camera has been recovered from the Disneyland camera protection and relocation program.

Here you can see all three of the kids at Maybe's pumpking patch. However, you can clearly see that in the 2nd pic you can see that we are missing one. Right about the same time this photo was taken Greg is carrying her over his shoulder back to our house where she can finish throwing her tantrum about not getting the 350 lb pumpkin that she couldn't live without.

Here you can see that 4 out of 5 White's love celebrating Halloween by making carmel apples, dressing up and attending Mumsie's annual Halloween scream.

A few pics from the beach in Ca. We could've spent our whole vacation hunting down pieces of broken clam shells and it would have been the best vacation ever. The kids loved the ocean, even though it was too cold for a fair weather girl like myself to get in.

Aspen the mermaid

Gage the crab

Trace the starfish

The monkeys hangin' out at rainforest cafe. (Note: make sure you share when you go, the portions are HUGE!)

If its time for a Disney trip go in October, everything was decorated for Halloween, it was perfect weather and not at all crowded.

We didn't even have to wait to see Mickey, we walked right in!

If Aspen could have a sister, I think she would choose Minnie.

Obviously Aspen isn't Minnie's only fan...

The kids feel most at home with their own kind...

We watched the Highschool Musical 3 show in California Adventure. Trace and I both got to guest star, we're famous.

Its "Ant Island" from Bugs Life

Greg wearing Trace's prince crown, I think he is half sauced on Disneyland.

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E

2008-11-01T13:33:00.000-07:00

October is definately the month to go to Disneyland. Most everyone is in school, so there are no lines. It's all decorated for Halloween, and it's California so the weather is beautiful. We started our trip off with a day at the beach, and I'm thinking next time we'll just stay at the beach, the kids couldn't get enough sand and water. (I think Gage brought half the shoreline home with us in his swim trunks, which then ended up all over the laundry room floor and in my washer.) So on Monday, Tuesday and most of the day Wednesday we did everything Disney. We even decided to stay right in Disneyland this time, which I could take or leave on our next visit. The first night we were there a young couple walked up to us with $60 in meal vouchers that they gave to us. They were with a military group and were leaving, but still had left over vouchers from Disneyland. Lucky us! Then back at our hotel that night another woman (with the same military group) offered me another $100 worth of meal vouchers. Double lucky us! The next day was super fun until I got back to our room that night and realized that our camera had been taken while we were watching the parade. I was sick about it, and of course it wasn't at the lost and found, so I bought a disposable camera to get a few shots our last day. Then right before we left to go to the airport we rode Buzz Light Year on last time. Greg accidentally left my backpack with our souvenirs, and my wallet on the ride, and yep you guessed it, it was gone. Fortunately for me I don't look too much like a criminal and they let me on the airplane with my checkbook, and an old plane ticket I was using as a bookmark for my 2 forms of I.D. Then a day after we got home Disneyland called me and said they found my camera in "Room 2". Hmmm, not sure what "Room 2" is but at least I will have some photos of our trip, as the disposable camera got stolen with my bag. BUT, everything is cancelled and everyone made it home safe and next time I go to Disneyland I will invest in a fanny pack that will be bolted to my waist!!!

Confessions of a grocery store beating

2008-10-24T22:01:00.000-07:00

Gage and Aspen are off track right now, and let me just tell you how I love off track. I always have these delusions that off track is going to be sooo much fun, I plan, prepare and try to keep the kids entertained 24 hours a day for 3 weeks. But instead of all my creative plans Gage and Trace would rather beat on each other. Soo, they have been banned from all play wrestling, sword fighting, boxing matches, and the likes. This came to pass after a little incident at Smith's. So picture me already at my limit because I have denied the kids the 450 items that they begged for, then they told me I was (of course) "the meanest mom ever" when I didn't cave. So on the way out the door after I scolded Trace 5 times to not use the divider rails between check stands as his own personal reformer the proudest mom moment happens. Gage turns to Trace, who is a step behind to tell him some sort of exciting news and all I hear is a giant THUD. The THUD was Trace (on the defense) giving Gage the biggest kidney punch ever in the back before he could even receive the news. So Gage lets out an OOOOWWWWWW and bends over backwards clutching his lower back. At which point Trace realizes that he has just dug the last shovel full of dirt for his own shallow grave and starts apologizing. "Sawwee Gage, sawwee, I didn't know, sawwee." This is all happening in the entrance to Smiths. So close, so very close to the door and we just couldn't make it. And all I can see playing in my head (as other customers are shaking their heads at me) is the scene from Dumb and Dumber were they are dressed up in their orange and baby blue tuxes with canes in hand and they start beating on each other. I think I may check ebay for some tiny little orange and blue tuxes, and I'll of course purchase the optional canes so we can at least film it and get some money from America's Funniest Home Videos. That will teach those judging grocery store onlookers.

The perfect day

2008-10-18T12:58:00.000-07:00

So I love fall, and I would love for it to last right up until Christmas Eve, when the snow should start and snow everybody in for Christmas day. I'm just hoping that fall will hold out for a while longer. It always seems that around these parts you blink and fall (spring happens this way too) is gone. Yesterday we decided to take advantage of the perfect weather, and head to Tracey Aviary (the perfect price--free for UEA) and soak it in. We saw the keepers feeding the pelicans, a bird show and the 50 year old condor that is the size of a small car. We had Abby Koch with us, she was the tour guide with map in hand the entire time (I'll take her anytime Michelle, what a good girl) however, Trace felt a little dethroned (I'm sure you can't tell by the pic) having to share his "I'm the youngest" attention with another cutie. (Ruffled his feathers a bit--no pun intended!) It's good for him to share, and not so good for me to see how spooooiled he is! (yikes) So enjoy the fall, carve some pumpkins and if you have any power over the weather, grant me one wish...warm sunny weather through the middle of November for my birthday.

We're moving!!!

2008-09-30T08:29:00.001-07:00

So Greg was just offered an awesome position on the big island of Hawaii, we're set to move before the snow falls. No more shoveling or coats for us. Dream on Sunni, don't I WISH that were true! I'd settle for a Hawaiian vacation. Seriously though, we are "moving". You know the toilet that needs a new strip of caulk, or the dings in the wall that need to be touched up. What about that closet, or drawer that need to be de junked and reorganized. Amy gave me some great advice as she was taking care of all those things before she moved to Az. She said that she would never again fix up her house to sell it. She plans to go through her house every 6 months to take care of all those little projects that add up around the house. What a great plan Amy! As you can see by the picture of my office, its at the "looks worse before it gets better stage." The good news is that my filing cabinet and all the drawers are de junked and organized! Progress. Although I'd rather just go to Hawaii.

Happy Birthday Trace!!

2008-09-22T21:59:00.000-07:00

So I am officially an old lady now. My baby is 5 years old! I keep telling Trace that I am going to squish him back into a little baby ball, but he is not having that. I have even tried to guilt him into staying home from kindergarten next year so I won't be alone, but he says I have Jilly Boo (great I'm old, and a crazy cat lady). I guess at least he still talks with his little lisp. "Mom, I'm wiwee big now." I just love that . And I still slather him with pink baby lotion. I have him convinced that he has an allergy to the "big people lotion". I know, he's going to be totally warped, but I don't care I'll take what I can get. Today at Challenger they highlighted him and sang Happy Birthday. Then he got to show pics of himself, the day he came home from the hospital (he told them it was taken when he was 2 yrs old) and pics of him playing baseball (he told them he hits home runs). Then the teacher asked his favorite color (blue, of course) and about his favorite animal (dogs -at which point he shot me a dirty look because we only have a cat and stuffed animal dogs at our house). Then the teacher asked about his favorite food, I was expecting dinosaur nuggets, or candy but he said "mesican food". Who knew?!

Trace helped me pick out his bday presents this year. So he has been carrying them around the house in their boxes for two weeks telling me that he isn't looking at them and that he is trying to forget about them like he promised at the store. The problem with transformers is that even though I purchased the ones that said 5+ I didn't read the fine print that it is not humanly possible to transform them back into anything recognizable after your 5+ child has played with it. Its like the Rubiks cube all over again. Anyway Tracey, we love you and are so glad that you are part of our family. There will never be a dull moment with Trace in the house, and I'm looking forward to the many many sporting events I will sit through (even the ones in the dead of winter) as your #1 fan. Happy 5th big boy birthday, I love you butter!

Chicago

2008-09-21T13:33:00.001-07:00

So I just got back from Chicago, the "windy city". Do you know why its called the windy city? Nope, nothing to do with the wind, it actually has to do with politics and all the "hot air" from the politicians. I can't talk much on the subject of politics though because I only know enough to know that I'm voting for some obscure independent party. What with all the commercials and such I'll be glad to see Nov. 4th come and go. (Mostly cause my bday is the 16th, so who cares about the 4th.) Back to Chicago, Greg had a business trip so I tagged along on. I was the true blue tourist, I sported the Seinfeld look with my white tennis shoes and jeans (I'm hot) and my camera, and the dazed look of trying to figure out my north, east, south and west directions. I saw many interesting things on my trip, and most of them weren't in the 3 museums I visited. And if I were a better photographer, who actually used my camera instead of just letting it hang around my neck I would've had some great pics to add to this blog. I missed pics of the contourtionist man in the skin tight leopard print full body leotard stuck in 2 tennis raquets, and the man frozen on a box, everything painted copper from head to toe, and the sea of women in our hotel lobby meeting for their red hat society convention (purple and red truly are the new black). I did however get a pic through the bus window of an elderly couple with great style. The man had on bright blue shoes I mean bright blue and blue socks, with grey slacks and a pale yellow cowboy shirt complete with bolo tye, and his wife had a black and white outfit on accented with the biggest red flower I have ever witnessed on a lapel. I hesitate to put their pic on my blog because 1. I took it through the window of a city bus, so the quality is lacking, and 2. it might be your grandparents and I don't want to have to pay them royalties for using their photo. It was a great trip, Chicago is a beautiful city. If you haven't had the chance to go, you should.

Make sure to stop at Gino's for some deep dish pizza with cornmeal crust. (Thanks Mich for that reccommendation), just make sure to get in line at 4 o'clock so you can eat by 7. And you will be pleasantly surprized at how NICE Chicagoans are. I was really impressed and have made a promise to myself to be more friendly to everyone I run into. I feel like we are a little snotty around these parts-probably not on purpose (and of course I don't mean you), but I think we all get a little busy and forget to smile and we could maybe exchange a few more pleasantries, or let someone merge in front of us on I15. (Yes everything in my closet is either green or white, and yes Greg and I planned to look like Christmas -who doesn't like the holidays?)

Based on a True Story

2008-09-16T14:02:00.000-07:00

So I've just started this book called "The Marvelous Journey Home" by John M. Simmons (thanks for sharing mom). Its about adoptions from Russian orphanages. I'm only a couple of chapters into it, but so far I haven't read many pages without eyes full of tears. I just can't imagine what kind of life those children live. I'm sure the providers do the best they can with what they have, but it breaks my heart to think of any child not being loved and cared for by his or her own family. I feel so blessed to live in the U.S., I'm thankful for our oppertunties, and hopefully I don't take all the abundance that I enjoy for granted. I will have to let you know what I think of the end of this book, but until then make sure you hug your kids and tuck them in tight tonight.

Move over Cinderella...

2008-09-12T12:07:00.000-07:00

I've got my own Fairy Godmother! So I'm digging through the bottom of my disaster closet (hence the pic on the stairs, instead of in the closet) looking for my brown shoes, and happen into what seems to be an adorable new pair of shoes. At first I pay no mind knowing that I didn't pay for the "magic closet feature" when we built the house. As I reached out to touch them sure that my hand would pass right through the mirage, I was delighted to find that they were real! Of course I tried them on right away, walking back and forth in front of my closet mirror. I may have even clicked my heels a time or two. But alas, I had only Trace and Jilly Boo (the cat) to share my new treasures with, and neither showed the sheer delight that would have only been appropriate for such a find! So, I promptly changed my outfit to match my new shoes and headed off to the temple (I told you I was going FOR SURE this week) where I may have seen and envious orthopedic shoe or two! ;) Thank you Fairy Godmother...

"It's not my season."

2008-09-07T19:59:00.000-07:00

This weekend we had Stake Conference. We have a really great stake, and I feel that I can "brag" about that because if anything, I am one of the stake charity cases, not necessarily one of the reasons for its greatness. Saturday night was the adult meeting, which my neighbor Michelle and I attended together sans husbands. So there we sit in the overflow of a very packed Stake Center listening to a member of the stake presidency, the temple president and his wife, and finally Elder Pingree after a beautiful all male quartet. The night was mostly focused on temple attendence and the blessings and service therein. The talks were very inspiring and quite enjoyable until Elder Pingree stood. He started his remarks by saying that he was very impressed by the turnout at a Saturday night meeting, remarking that he hadn't seen a Saturday night meeting that full before. Then he talked about our stake having the highest number of temple workers (all of this information seemed very impressive to me) he seemed to want to prove his point to us by using a visual so he asked all the temple workers in the audience to stand, half of the audience stood (it was impressive). Then he asked all those who had attended the temple in the last week to stand, 2/3 of the audience was now standing (at this point I start to panic realizing it has been almost 6 months since I attended a session), then he asked all those who had attended in the last month to stand, and pretty much everyone in the entire chapel, overflow and gym all the way back to the stage stood. And there I was amongst the few of us trying to remember for sure when the last time we attended was. I leaned over to Michelle, who I will not incriminate by saying that she too was still sitting and whispered "Its not our season", mostly trying to make myself feel better. Soon the audience was seated and we blended back into the crowd, unlabeled, but not uneffected by the scenario that just took place. As Elder Pingree went on to give a most wonderful talk I reflected on my comment to Michelle about it not being my season. I think it is my season. I seem to have time to go to dinner and a movie, or to go on a bike ride after I drop preschool carpool off. I can find a babysitter for a doctors appointment, or to make a lunch date with a friend. But for some reason I have been able to justify to myself that because I don't have blue hair and orthopedic shoes I don't have time, and its not my season. Well, tomorrow starts my season. I may not be a temple worker anytime soon, or even make it more than once a month. But once every four weeks for two hours is not a lot to ask of any us. Besides, that actually only adds up to four times each season, and the the word on the street, or at least at our stake conference is that the temple is always in season. Hope to see you there...

It's Time to Tri!

2008-09-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

Gage did his 3rd triathlon this morning. The weather held out just until Gage crossed the finish line, then the flood came. Rain, wind, hail, everyone scattering and huddling under the pavilion trying to escape the weather. This was his 2nd time competeing in the Murray Tri, and he did awesome! He took 6th in his age group. Congrats Gage!

Swiss Daze

2008-08-31T20:43:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love Swiss Days in Midway Utah? Michelle, my squeeky shoe girlfriend (shamelss plug for "The Squeeky Shoe") shared a booth with the "Bows and Bobbies" girls. Michelle invited me up to stay at her family cabin and hang out with her on Saturday to get my fix of the mass humanity. I felt like Templeton the Rat from Charlotte's Web. I glutted my way through a "Swiss (navajo) Taco", cookies made with love from the dedicated R.S. booth, warm cinnamon sugar almonds, and half a box of whoppers that I ate all by myself on the way there. Oh, and lets not forget the taco salad from Don Julio's fine mexican eatery late, late Friday night. (That was a seriously bad choice!) Its no wonder I couldn't fit into my Sunday best today. (burp!) So, it was a great weekend in the world of boutiques, shopping and good friends. I think I might work on some hand woven handicrafts of my own so I can get a piece of the excitement, and maybe a little more carnie food...

The proudest new Auntie!!!

2008-08-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

Sophie and Finn arrived at 9:34 and 9:36 on Tuesday morning. After a scare with Ashlee's liver (H.E.L.L.P. Hypertension, Elevated Liver enzymes, Low Platelets, its really scary, and can be fatal), and an emergency c-section S&F made their debut at 33 weeks. Sophie weighed in at a whopping 4lbs 4oz and Finn was 4lbs 11oz. Sophie was a little champ breathing and doing everything all by her big girl self, Finn needed a little oxygen help 'til he pulled his breathing tube off yesterday morning announcing that he too was big, and didn't need help. They are still in ICU learning to "suck, swallow, breath" and working on keeping their temperatures up. Other than that everyone is doing awesome, and in case your are wondering, I have pretty much dropped all my baby weight and am ready for swimsuit season ;). I am in baby bliss, loving every peek I've gotten at them, and counting the time til I can hold them, and kiss their faces off! Congrats Ash and Audy we love those babies!!!

Holes in our head

2008-08-19T08:04:00.000-07:00

Written in sharpie on the outside of a ziplock sandwich baggie, with a microscopic front tooth inside...

Dear Tooth Fairy,

Please do not take this object.

Love,
Aspen

After reasoning with me that she has already given the tooth fairy 2 of her teeth, which justifies her getting the cash, and keeping the tooth Aspen stashed the pearly treasure in the baggie under her pillow and said to me, "Mom, please tell the toothfairy to leave me a dollar. No wait, tell the toothfairy to leave me a credit card."

As much as I love my neighborhood and the life style we enjoy I will be putting our house on the market today. We are moving to a one room shack with a leaky roof, and a dirt floor. Each of my children will have two sets of clothes. They will wear 1 set for 3 days, then swap out for the clean set. At which time they will use whatever rain water we've collected to swish out the dirty set. And now that Aspen is officially in 1st grade she is old enough to get a job, and instead of the dance lessons she plans to attend after school she will be walking the streets collecting old soda cans to recycle. I feel like this is the only chance I have to save my children.

Please Pray for Ali

2008-08-15T13:54:00.001-07:00

After reading Amy's blog I thought I would also send out a plea for prayers. My friend's little 3 year old daughter was kicked by a horse in the back of the head on Monday night (11th). She is currently in the pediatric ICU at Primary Children's. She is holding on, but is still in very critical condition. She needs our prayers, and I know that God hears, and answers us. So on behalf of Codee, and her family please remember little Ali in your thoughts and prayers.

Should I worry?

2008-08-05T15:44:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure that this is what the toy makers had in mind when they invented splash balls, or when excercise balls were invented that this is what it would come to. However, trust Aspen to shove anything she can find up her shirt, or down her swimsuit, which ever the case may be. My little Aspen has been looking forward to the day when her body begins to "blossom" since she realized boys were boys, and girls were girls. Soooo opposite of me. I was pretty much mortified when my body betrayed me and started "growing" without my permission. My entire pre teen, and most of my teenage life was spent behind the protective covering of an extra large t shirt over my swimsuit. I'm thinking about taking her a convent, where they will first cleanse the demons from her soul, then lock her up until she is 25.

Two Face

2008-08-04T08:27:00.000-07:00

So if you've seen the new Batman movie, you've seen Two Face. Well, last night I had my own Two Face accident. Only thankfully, mine only involved water, no gasoline. I was making 7 minute frosting on the stove, using a pan and a metal bowl as my double boiler. Five minutes into my 7 minute frosting I hear a loud BOOM! and it takes me a second to realize that boiling water just popped all over the left side of my face. After gaining a little composure and checking it out in the mirror I decided an ER visit was the way to go. The ER visit resulted in some high adventure fun too. They gave me a drug called Delodin (sp?) for pain in my I.V. and as he was administering it he said that I might feel a little pressure or heaviness in my chest. Well, no sooner did he say that than I couldn't breath. No not a little pressure of heaviness in my chest, I was drowning. I scrambled off the table, and started pawing my way up Gregs arm to try and stretch my body long enough to have a decent lung capacity, and finally after about 2 minutes the effect started to wear off, and I could breath easily again. The drug actually worked really well, after it tried to kill me ;). Soo, half a burned face, a drug reaction, and pound of salve later I was on my way back home. Harvey Dent + Sunni White forever!!!

Every little thing he does is magic!

2008-07-28T10:31:00.000-07:00

Scroll all the way to the bottom before you read my post and choose one the the Police songs to click on while you read!

Soo, I went to the Police Concert on July 19th. It was the best concert I've been to in a long time. Greg the "fun sucker" decided that he wanted nothing to do with the concert or the crowds, so I took my mom who was totally into the concert, and loved it. Elvis Costello opened, I had heard of him, but was unfamiliar with his music. He did a great job, and half way through his performance Sting came out and sang one of his songs with him. Of course the crowd went wild, and then Sting went backstage til Elvis finished his set. Then The Police, Sting (vocal and guitare), Andy Summers (guitare) and Stewart Copeland (drums) came out and played every police hit and gave 2 encores, I loved every minute of it and wanted it to go on for three days straight. Sting is very into yoga and has the body to prove it and still sings with that beautiful smooth voice we all know. Stewart Copeland the drummer put on a great show, he was super animated and looks just like my family practice dr - Dr. Jack Taylor, I think he might actually be the good Doc himself, the resemblance was amazing. He had some really cool equipment he was drumming on through out the show, and is definately the clown of the three members. I bought the tickets the morning they went on sale, back in April I believe, and have been anticipating the date ever since. The concert didn't disappoint, thats for sure, I'm only sad because it didn't last long enough, I would seriously consider becoming a groupie for the rest of the tour which ends in August, anyone interested?

Introducing...

2008-07-17T14:06:00.001-07:00

Everyone, meet Jilly Boo and her ecstatic new owner, Aspen White! Jilly Boo joined our family a week and a half ago, and has been the main attraction ever since. She is a little siamese mix that was rescued and brought to our cousin's vet clinic only hours after being born. (Side note, Jilly Boo shares the same date of birth as our Aunt Ashes, May 5th. Next May 5th we will be celebrating BIG TIME, cat nip, yarn balls, the works!) If you have ever read Skippy Jon Jones you will know that Skippy is a naughty little siamese cat, whose ears are too big for his head, and his head is too big for his body, and he is just sure that his is in fact NOT a siamese cat, but a chiuaua, and gets himself into lots of trouble. Skippy Jon Jones has 3 little kitty sisters named, Jezebel, Ju Ju bee, and you got it, Jilly Boo. I am quite convinced that our little Jilly Boo is in deed Skippy's little sister, because her ears are too big for her head, and she zips around the house at lightening speeds, just like Skippy does in his stories. If you haven't read Skippy Jon Jones, its a must read, and definately one that you will want to add to your children's library.

In this picture Jilly Boo looks as though she might be wet, but no. No she is not wet, she is covered in baby lotion, that has been gently and lovingly massaged into her fur by her new nemisis, Trace White. You see, Trace loves her almost to the point of death, and I'm afraid that if I'm not careful we might have "Of Mice and Men" on our hands. I must say that kittens are more durable than you might think, and that so far she has been a good little kitty girl. Greg is even tolerating misses kitten britches pretty well!

Good Times

2008-07-06T20:00:00.001-07:00

Wow, this blog is starting to look like my journal, the dates are getting farther and farther apart. I just got back from girls camp on Thursday. Can I just say that it was perfect?! Even the giant moths and bugs were, well no, those weren't ok. Before we left from the church on Monday, our Stake President gave the prayer and pronounced a blessing over our camp, that definately brought the spirit right away. It was a stake young women's camp this year. Our ward had 31 girls attend, we had the most by almost double all the other wards, and our girls were all stellar! Not one fight, the older girls really took care of the younger girls, everyone participated in all the activities, I really felt so blessed to be there. The spirit was so strong, whether we were on the zip line, shooting the paintball guns, or in the middle of testimony meeting. It was a tangible feeling there, all around us. I just can't help but compare my own young women's experience with the one these girls are creating for themselves. I am so proud of them for their strength, and steadfastness in the gospel. Their testimonies are in place, solid, they know the scriptures and proudly embrace their love of the gospel. They are such examples to me. I know that Heavenly Father put me in this calling so that I could learn and grow from these girls. At times, I almost feel selfish and wonder what it is I can give to them. It is definately a blessing in my life to be surrounded by these girls, my girls. I love them all and am blessed for knowing them.

What a ride!

2008-06-28T18:54:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been a long time since my last blog. Life is crazy busy, isn't it? Sooo, today was my big Bike MS ride. It was a huge event. I actually got a little teary eyed when I first walked into the "MS village" (hit a little close to home for me). There were lots of sponsor tents, and team tents set up everywhere, and soo many people. I met a few people, and heard some stories about their family members living with MS. It was incredible to me how many people gave up their weekend to volunteer. So the ride, this morning Greg and I, along with a group of our friends left just after 7 a.m. . It couldn't have been more perfect. The weather was awesome, and the company was even better. We rode north through Logan, up into Idaho, then back into Logan. The scenery was amazing, tons of beautiful farming communities and little towns dotting the ride every so often. After lunch (at 10:30 a.m.) the ride immediately started into some rolling hills. Between those, and lunch sitting in my stomach it got a little hard for about 5 miles, then I found my rhythm and felt a lot better. About 10 miles from the finish we hit the last rest stop and I thought I was good to go, but that last 10 miles proved to be a lot harder than I thought and by the time we hit the finish line at 12:30 I was sure glad we decided on 75 miles, instead of 100. Next year though I will be ready to conquer the century ride! So I invite all those who haven't yet joined me on the bike to come and "ride like a girl!" (Annie? Amy? Put the past behind you and put your behind on a seat!)

I've been shopping!

2008-06-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

How do you like my new blog stuff? I found the cutest blog design website ever. There is a button at the bottom of my page (leelou) that you can click on. I suggest everyone take a peek at her work. I am loving it!

I am waaay behing on my blogging, and its going to stay that way for another day or two, I have a talk to write for my mom's enrichment meeting tonight (thanks a lot, mom!), a skit to write for girls camp, a lesson to prepare for Sunday, my house, my yard, and oh yeah, all the kids' stuff too! I also have to get some bike time in. My MS ride is only 9 days away! Everyone say a little prayer for me...I think my stamina is fine, however, I am a little worried about my bottom. Its a little tender at about mile 20, that means another 55 miles is going to be rough on the saddle. Yes, I just asked you all to pray for my backside!

Kicked the Bucket

2008-06-08T15:51:00.000-07:00

Our "Bucket List" for off track was mostly completed, and school started Monday. We are back on track for 3 more weeks of torture. I am having a hard time sending the kids to school. Its hard for me to argue the pro school point of view when Gage is debating with me why he shouldn't have to go for the next 3 weeks. Its June, let the poor kids out! While we were off track we hooked up with our awesome neighbor, Morgan who is always willing to let us enjoy a little "citified" cowboy experience. You know the three outlaws, and that is Patches being very patient with them. Greg and I also got a turn riding too, but I thought I would spare you the rodeo queen pics...

Here are the pros on the next mini golf tour... Boondocks was also on the bucket list, and it worked out really well because I had to go with PTA for the 6th grade graduation party anyway, so we snuck a couple of "extra small 6th graders" in. We have been to Boondocks a number of times, but usually only hit the arcades, and or laser tag. It always seems to be bad weather when we go, so this was the first time we have done any outside stuff. Boondocks also hosted my most embarrasing moment of the week. We were next in line for the little go carts, as we walked through the gate the kids were fighting over the "blue car" so I didn't pay any attention to the fact that you cannot be taller than 60 inches to ride. I get the kids situated, then try to climb in one myself, which of course I am waaaay to tall for. As I realize that I am making a total fool out of myself the boondocks worker tells me that I can't ride. At which point they have to shut the ride down, call the fire department, and get a big vat of crisco to pry me out of the stupid car. O.K., that last part didn't happen, but it might as well have, I was totally embarrased. I will be double checking the height requirements from now on.

We also, did a little swimming. I have never taken my kids to South Jordan Rec Center to swim before. It was a rainy day, and swimming was on the list, so we opted for an inside pool. How fun! They have a great pool at the Rec Center, one which I plan to take more advantage of. We usually go to Life Time Fitnesses pool, but their pool stinks in comparison. Definately the place for rainy day swimming. We were also lucky enough to find a bunch of blow up beach balls, and rubber duckies with graduation caps left over from the graduation party the night before. It doesn't get any better than blowing up a beach ball that who-knows-who blew up before you did. Now that is a mother's love.

A gaggle of kids, or geese? There were new babies all over the farm!

The kids also got to spend a day with some good friends, the Porters. The kids are all the exact same ages, and more than once I got asked if they were all my kids. Can you imagine 3 sets of twins? They are fun, but I can't imagine raising doubles x3, at 2 years apart. (I am not a super mom). I need to talk to Annie, because I think we both have houses full of city slickers. Noone enjoyed the pugent aroma of the hen house, or the pig pen. I personally think its a great way to clear the sinuses.

And last but not least, Trace is "off track" for the summer. Preschool ended last Friday. It was circus day. Each class got to perform a little "stunt" for the other classrooms. Trace, David and Stockton's class got to do the "limbo" under a flaming stick. Amazing I tell you. The kids got to dress up, and have circus cookies for snack time. I can't believe how time flies. Wasn't it just last week when preschool started? I only have one more year of preschool, then we will all be elementarified at our house. (Does that mean I'm getting old too?) (Don't answer that.)

What am I, 70?

2008-06-07T21:00:00.001-07:00

So I go to the opthalmologist on Thursday. He tells me I have a cataract in my left eye, and one that is starting in my right eye. Says I need surgery probably in 3 months. What am I, 70? All I can picture is an old witch I saw on a horror film once with horribly clouded eyes and frizzy gray hair. The doctor wants to know if I have a family history. Well, yeah, but my grandparents are 80, not 32! So this brings me to my next dilhemma, do I keep that dental appointment that I made? I don't think I could handle the dentist telling me its time to think about dentures. I might just buy myself a jazzy electric chair and move to my Florida retirement home if that happens. (However, I will refuse to eat dinner at 4p.m.)

Aspen for Hire

2008-06-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

While off track, Aspen has started a new trend at our house. Dressing her and her brothers to match each other. As you can see in these photos, she has carefully thought out the outfits, right down to the accessories. Again, here with the South Jordan Elementary tshirts, and Christmas p.j.'s. This is only a small example of the clothing coordination that has been going on.

The thing that I find most hilarious about this, is that her brothers are playing into it, and allowing her to tell them how to dress! She is going to train them to be such great husbands one day. What can I say, the poor girl needs a little sister soo badly. Our only hope comes in the form of twin cousins that Aunt Ashes is due to give birth to in the fall. (A girl, and a boy!) Aspen will be in baby heaven, and I'm sure Ash will let her coordinate them right down to the accessories. Hurry up Aunt Ashes, we need those babies! Until then, I will hire Aspen out for consults should you have a need!

Meet Ruby

2008-05-29T21:00:00.001-07:00

Some of you have already met Ruby (my bike), but for the rest of you here is a pic of my favorite new girl! Ruby and I have become "BBF's" (ha ha) and I have really enjoyed spending time with her. Oh, and all my friends that ride too! I just wish that the weather would cooperate a little more, so I don't have to mope around the house when I can't get out for a ride. Today I took Ruby from my house up to the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, then along Wasatch, (where I got schooled by an old man rider), then down 126th to 27th w. then down 98th so. home. It felt sooo good. I think I have found that thing I am passionate about. Biking doesn't seem to bother my legs the way running does, although I'm going to have to give into the fact that I need to do a little cross training. So to all of you out there who are considering a bike, I highly recommend it. Until next time, don't forget to "Ride like a girl!" And to those of you who have one, Lets go! By the way, it has come to my attention that I have lots of anonymous readers, feel free to say "hi" in my comments...;)

Soo yummy!

2008-05-27T21:09:00.000-07:00

For Mother's Day I requested a wheat grinder. So I am the proud new owner of a Nutrimill grinder, that can pretty much grind anything you can think of. Its way cool, if you don't have one, I highly suggest getting one. There is a woman in my neighborhood (Tami Girsberger, some of my readers will know her) who was first of all, instrumental in me getting a wheat grinder, and she has also written a cookbook, "The Essential Food Storage Cookbook". It's not your mothers food storage cookbook, I recommend it. One of my favorite recipes is Yogurt Pancakes. Up until the wheat grinder I have just used white flour in this recipe (which is delicious), but just recently tried it with my freshly ground wheat flour. It's to die for... So everyone give it a try, then let me know what you think. (I suggest doubling the batch, then freezing the left overs for a quick microwavable breakfast later on.)

Orange Yogurt Pancakes

2 eggs

1/4 c. sugar

1 c. white flour

1c. whole wheat flour(I opted for 2c. wheat, no white)

1 1/2 t. baking soda

1 t. salt

1/3 c. oil

1t. vanilla

1 c. orange juice

1c. vanilla yogurt

Mix wet, and dry ingredients separately, then combine until well blended. Cook on preheated griddle at 350. These pancakes will be very moist, and will be a little difficult to flip, but enjoy. Definately on my list of favs!

Wanted: more sun, less rain

2008-05-26T21:05:00.000-07:00

O.K., so our "bucket list" for the three weeks off track hasn't been going according to plan. The weather is NOT cooperating, and we are soo far behind schedule on our picnics I just don't know that we will be able to catch up! We have been spending time indoors, the kids have been working on art projects, and perfecting the art of beating on each other out of boredom. For Christmas, Santa brought each of them art kits that we decided to break out. They looked so great, a huge recipe book of ideas, and paints, glue, glitter, dyes, measuring cups, paintbrushes... So we go through the book to find a project, and the dumb book has tons of great ideas with ingredients that they don't include in the kit (what the?) So after a couple of failed attempts at their ingredients I made a good old fashioned batch of salt dough clay, added a little food coloring, and it kept them entertained for the rest of the afternoon. The lesson you ask? Keep it simple, stupid. The salt dough works everytime, and you don't have to buy the crappy kit. Just 1c. flour, 1/2c. salt, 1/2 c. water, and 1T. oil. Add a little food coloring, and your set for the afternoon. We did catch one nice day on Saturday, so we went to Gardener Village to find some new bar stools. Can I first say that my bar stools are only a couple of years old, and they are beat to crap! I'm pretty sure the kids use them for WWF matches when I'm in the shower or something, not to mention for some unknown reason I had a weak moment and bought bar stools that had fabric seats, which of course look disgusting because the kids use them as napkins. Soo, the stool hunt was sucessful, as you can see I chose some fairly plain, easy to care for new ones, and I got a pretty good Memorial Day sale too! (That made Greg happy.) We wandered around Gardener Village for a while, they had a folk band playing, and great sidewalk sales at every house. The kids were drawn to the water, and the ducks, and Gage found a little garden snake that he a Trace both posed with for the camera. There was also a bullfrog that was huge, and too fast to catch a photo of. Who needs the zoo when you can just go to Gardener Village? And of course, whats a trip to Gardener Village without a candy stop at Sweet Afton's! (Who doesn't love their fudge?!) Today we broke the law (what can I say, we're desperate people with all the rain) and took our kids to see Indianna Jones. (My kids look 13 don't they?) Either it wasn't all that bad, or we are totally desensitized to what we consider entertainment. It wasn't my favorite Indy movie, but pretty good, especially for a rainy day.

Stuck on time

2008-05-23T22:10:00.000-07:00

So I'm still on the time thing. Today I went to the cemetary to visit/clean up my dad's grave. My cute little Gram beat me to the cleaning, and edging, so I just stood there and had a good cry, and remimisced to myself for a bit. In September it will be two years ago that my dad passed away, and in that time, I have spent a lot of time thinking about all the things I didn't say or do and aching for a little more time. The Today Show's Anne Curry just lost her dad in April after a short battle with cancer. She did a piece today about her dad and some of her favorite memories of him. She talked about how much she misses him, his corny jokes, the way he was always laughing and smiling. Anne also talked about documenting, with photos or video, and writing down things that loved ones tell you. Of course you reflect on your own life when something hits close to home. I miss a lot of the same things about my dad. He was always walking around singing some song under his breath, always a smile on his face, and I will never forget that deep quiet laugh he had. I also treasure the advice he gave me along the way, I still sorely miss being able to call him for his advice on this or that. My dad wasn't judgemental or proud. He was who he was, and I loved that about him. He had more friends than most people even meet in a lifetime. Life is short, sometimes way too short. I know I needed a lot more of my dad's time than I got. Just make sure you take time to spend time. Then write it down, and take lots of photos. I wish I had done more documenting and picture taking. By the way, the Beetles songs are for you dad, I sure miss you... love, Sunni

Is it time?

2008-05-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

Is it time for a new post? I guess by the infrequent posts you all can guess how consistantly I write in my journal too. Well, I think that our April showers are falling in May, which means my May flowers should be lovely by June? And since we're running a month behind schedule I expect a nice long fall too! So, the kids are off track and we have a list as long as my arm that they want to do before they go back to school in 2 1/2 weeks. As I read through it after its completion I realized its all about time. They want to do things like picnic (everywhere, at our park, at the park by dad's office, in the yard...) -you can never go wrong with a picnic. They also wanted to just play some family baseball, and go on a bike ride together. We have already been on one picnic this week, which consisted of a fabulous lunch from McDonald's, and a slightly soggy shady spot under a tree next to the playground equipment. After we ate I watched them play for a while, then I joined in the fun -which only lasted another 20 minutes before someone had to go potty, and with no unlocked potties in sight we had to call it a day. As we packed up and headed to the car all 3 of them were raving about how much fun we had, that this day topped their list of best days ever, and all I did was play "monster of the playground" for 20 minutes. So, yes it is time. Its all about time, how we use it, what is really worth our time, and who we choose to spend our time with. So, what time is it for you?

This family Tri's hard!!!

2008-05-11T20:30:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time in St. George last week. Although it rained cats and dogs, buckets, down poured on us all the way down on Wednesday night. But, the weather was perfect for swimming and playing on Thursday and Friday. However, Saturday morning the wind storms came just in time for the triathlon. They were soo bad that after the olympic heat started in the water, and they had to pull a whole group out of the lake due to the severity of the current, they cancelled the swim portion of the race for the sprinters. (phew! I was soo nervous to watch those guys try to swim against the waves.) So, Greg only had to bike and run this year. I say only, it was still a killer trying to bike and run with extreme wind conditions (you can see by my fabulous hair!) Thank goodness everyone we went with went home in one piece, there were lots of crashes and accidents this year! Yikes! I had some extreme fun of my own while we were there. I took my bike, and met up with some friends for an especially early morning 30 mile ride. Lets just call it the death march. We started at 5 a.m. because one girl had to be back home by 6:30. It was completely dark, which wasn't too bad until the leader of the pack (no names to protect the guilty) led us on a wild ride down dark side streets, only two from our group had lights, and I wasn't one of them. Needless to say, dark unfamiliar streets, on a road bike left me praying for the light of day. I love the light. I have never been soo glad to see a sunrise in my life. After the sun came up the rest of the ride was awesome. Can I just say that I love my bike! (only in well lit places though!)

Where are you Summer?

2008-05-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

Where are you summer?

How can I find you ?

Why won't you come our way?

Where is the sunshine

you used to bring me?

Why can't I see flowers bloom?

My world is greying

I've need of rearranging

That means changing of seasons too - oo

Where are you summer?

I am still waiting

My skin is cold and

very pale and I need

sun to see me through...

Ok, I give up on the trying to rewrite the lyrics to "Where are you Christmas". Because instead of writting this blog, I'd rather be outside digging in my garden, planting the vegtables I bought at Glover Nursery the other day that are hiding from the frost in my garage. Now, if this was the begining of April I would be a little more ok with the fact that everything is dead from last nights frost, but being that it is May 1st I am soo not ok that there is snow on the ground! (By the way Happy Birthday Dad, I hope you wanted snow for your birthday. Although I know you'd rather be fishing on the 'berry so I doubt you ordered snow.) Too bad I'm not more like Polly Anna and then I could find the good in this and go out on the lawn and make one last snow angel for the year. I never did like that Polly Anna!

My personal chef

2008-04-27T17:40:00.000-07:00

At 7 a.m. this morning I hear dishes banging, and the pilot light on the stove. Greg and I are both still in bed (lazy, I know), (I had the stomach flu, Greg is lazy). I alert Greg who yells downstairs for whoever that is to stop cooking. At which time a startled little voice gives an "okay." A minute later a wobbly tray makes its way up to my side of the bed with four crepes (almost as thick as regular pancakes), a glass of ice water, an entire jar of peaches, and the shaker of powdered sugar. Gage, the proud chef announces that he has been up since 6:20 making breakfast for us! Actually, they weren't half bad. A little thick for my liking, but browned to perfection, and he cleaned up his mess as he worked! I was pretty impressed. Gage has a pretty mature pallet for an 8 year old. One of his favorite snacks is a plate of (get ready for this) steamed spinach with a dash of salt and pepper. He won't however touch most kid friendly foods, such as grilled cheese. or even eat your average kids meals at McDonalds or Wendy's anymore. Where did this kid come from? I think I am going to enroll him in some culinary classes. Who knows, I may have the next Food Network star on my hands!

been thinking...

2008-04-18T21:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, so the first and last time I actually posted anything was on March 31st. However, I've been thinking, in my mind I have written about 50 different posts. So the problem is, by the time I call everyone and tell all my stories who actually wants to read all the same old same old on line all over again. That, and the fact that I am pretty much writing to myself because I haven't given my blog out to anyone yet. BUT, I'm going to do that this week. I have to write today though. Today was a very triumphant day at the White house. (By the way, I am a horrible speller, and reserve the right to misspell things on my own blog without too much grief from my readers.) To preface the day Gage has been doing soooo much better in school than last quarter, grades have gone from C average to pretty much A's. And today he aced his spelling test, which was not an easy one might I add. Then Aspen, who is pretty much always our perfect scholar anyway passed off 2 books, instead of only 1 today, and then Trace's teacher reported that he was extra good, and quiet in class today. I'm pretty sure it was the Malt 'O Meal Greg fed them for breakfast. Whatever it was I had 3 out of this world kids all day long today, in the car, at home, everywhere we went they were kind to each other, well behaved, and pretty much fabulous. This may be my last blog. I may never be able to top a day like today!!!

Sunni's World

2008-03-31T08:02:00.000-07:00

Check me out with my new big girl blog! April starts tomorrow, and the final countdown of tax season! Three cheers for that! Hopefully spring will find its way here too, I'm ready for less layers and sandals!