Welcome To Our World

I Suck at Blogging

2012-01-31T22:25:00.001-07:00

Blogging has not been at the top of my priority list. But my friend Melanie has motivated me to find my inner-blog. So, I am giving it another go. We'll see how long it lasts. Haha

Your Call Cannot Be Completed...

2011-08-26T18:33:00.001-06:00

Wednesday morning at 5:30 a.m. I was sleeping soundly when the phone rang. My first thought is, "Who in the freak is calling at five in the morning." I look at the caller id which reads, security screen 043-910-1800; my next thought, "Seriously, telemarketers at five in the morning." So I immediately think, "I am not answering this." and I let the phone ring. The caller calls right back and I think, "What the crap, leave me alone." I pick up the phone and hang it up. And the phone rings AGAIN!! I answer the phone and in my most annoyed tone I say "Hello."

A heavily accented male voice cheerfully responds "Hello, Mrs. Loftus?"

What?? Loftus?? Definitely a telemarketer. I reply "You have the wrong number."

Caller "Mrs. Loftus?"

Me (using a tone to display my disgust),"You have the wrong number."

Caller (still cheerful), "Oh, Mrs. Tudor?"

Me again "Wrong number."

Then I hear a very sweet, not nearly as accented male voice say "Mom, don't hang up. It's me Colton; I'm in the hospital."

After I picked myself up off the floor, Colton was able to explain that he had three kidney stones and they needed my permission to do surgery. Would it be considered bad parenting if you are happy your child is in the hospital because it allows you the chance to talk to him? Well, I was. We talked to him before and after the procedure and he is all fixed up and back to work.

Oh, and the heavily accented male voice... Mission President Tavares!!

The Trouble With Blogging

2011-07-21T13:28:00.000-06:00

When I first started writing a blog I thought it would be a nice way of keeping track of my life. Blogging has had an affect I did not anticipate; I now realize how repetitve my life is. Same people, same place, same pictures, just a new year.

Nothing Says American Hero Like "John Lennon"

2011-04-03T22:38:00.000-06:00

It was time for the annual 5th Grade Wax Museum. The theme is American Heroes. I'm thinking Benjamin Franklin, Abraham Lincoln, maybe James Madison. Colin was thinking John Lennon. I tried to explain that he was not an American. Colin informed me that he revolutionized American rock music, which makes him an American hero. Can't argue with that logic. He was awfully cute and did a great job. (Thanks Janae, for the help with the wardrobe.)

The Science Fair

2011-03-27T10:45:00.001-06:00

Needless to say, I am not a fan of the Science Fair. I think Colin summed up our feelings when he said, "Mom, can we just do something really boring so there is no chance I will have to move on?" Sounds perfect to me!!

Who Knew...

2011-01-16T23:25:00.000-07:00

under all that hair...

there was such a good looking kid?!!

Top Ten Things I've Learned in 2010

2010-12-31T23:23:00.001-07:00

I can do hard things.
I am a crazy dog person.
Golf...Who Knew?
Blogs are so 2008.
B Willie Smith...still the best band ever!!
I am a little bit of a U.S. History nerd.
Brazil is very far away.
Reality is not absolute, everyone has their own.
You can do anything for thirty seconds.
Forgiveness is a sign of strength, not a show of weakness.

This is just sad...

2010-12-27T12:31:00.001-07:00

The traditional "top of the stairs" picture.
Christmas 2010

Look at My Over Achiever

2010-12-23T18:32:00.001-07:00

Cassidy called me the other day and said, "Guess what? I just found out I am the Student of the Semester for the Health/Science Department. I know it's kind of nerdy, but it's still kind of cool. I get to go to lunch." I don't think it's nerdy at all, I think it's way cool. And Cassidy can no longer claim that Colton is the smart one!

I Miss This Kid

2010-12-12T16:34:00.002-07:00

Today Cody Christensen spoke at church. He just returned home from a mission in Chile. He entered the MTC exactly one year before Colton. As he started his talked, he apologized for his poor English skills. I started to tear up. I continued crying through out his talk. I'm not talking a little watery eyes crying, I am talking full on tears streaming down my cheeks crying, quite possibly crossed over into sobbing. Maybe it was just hormonal, but sometimes I really miss Colton. Bright side...one year down, one to go.

Why I Like Winter

2010-12-10T16:31:00.002-07:00

This post was originally going to be "Why I Don't Like Winter." But, man oh man, who has time to write a post that long. So, I decided to go with the much shorter version (I will be lucky to be able to come up with five)
The Reason's I like Winter:

Boots- Yes, I really, really like boots. I wish it was possible to go straight from sandal season to boot season. Who needs those inbetween shoes?
Fireplaces-Just flip the switch and within minutes you are warm and snugly.
Coats- I like coats. I don't if this really fits in "winter" category, because I often wear a coat in the summer (or at least have one with me-just in case.) Oh well, it's going on my list.
Layers and Long sleeves-What up with those people wearing tank tops?!! It's winter, for heaven's sake!
Soda-I love when you can leave your soda in the car for four hours and when you come back it is still cold. Can't get much better than that.
Christmas Lights-Don't confuse this with Christmas decorations. I like to see festive Christmas lights. I don't like putting them up, taking them down, or any of that other Christmas "fun." I just like the lights.

I think that is pretty much everything that is good about winter!!

Seriously...

2010-10-19T22:49:00.000-06:00

Today I was told by my health teacher that he gave me a "B" on my Family Health History paper because he could tell I was one of those people that always had to get an "A." Not to worry I would still get the grade I "wanted" in the class, but I would just have to be mad at him about the paper. True story!!

...You Might Be Colton

2010-09-14T05:50:00.003-06:00

If you eat five bowls of cereal for breakfast...you might be Colton.
If you have over 12,000 songs on you ipod and actually listen to them...you might be Colton.
If you have 9 1/2 toes...you might be Colton.
If you have ever had to ask why your "ABS" came on...you might be Colton.
When asked how many siblings you have, if you have ever answered : 1 whole, 1 half and 2 steps...you might be Colton.
If you can order off the dollar menu and still spend over $10...you might be Colton.
If your favorite television program is "Web Gems"...you might be Colton.
If you frequently buy video games and beat them the same day...you might be Colton.
If you have ever been awarded a certificate for scoring in the top 10% on the science section of the ACT, but you struggle writing a complete sentence...you might be Colton.
If your hair has been every color of the rainbow...you might be Colton.
If you refuse to wear flipflops...you might be Colton.
If the tailgate of your Xterra is covered in random stickers...you might be Colton.
You you have never bought a random sticker...you might be Colton
If you can text, read and listen to your ipod at the same time...you might be Colton.
If your best friend dates all your x's...you might be Colton.
If you have ever told your prom date "This is what I am wearing, if you want to match me."...you might be Colton.
If everyone thinks you are your mom's favorite...you might be Colton.
If you are the best Brazilian missionary ever...you might be Colton.

HAPPY 20TH BIRTHDAY!!

Remember when I went on vacation?

2010-09-11T23:00:00.000-06:00

I had really good intentions to blog all about my cool Baltic vacation...oops, doesn't look like that is going to happen. Maybe I should just blog about my favorite unconventional parts.

Let me start with an explanation as to why this is my favorite. Several years ago, while traveling with Cassidy and some high schoolers through Europe, I was introduced to the "There's your boy/girl friend game." To play this game you find the wackiest, most inappropriate person you can and then exclaim to the person you are with "There's your boyfriend." Digital technology has actually allowed us to take this game one step further as you try to take a picture of them (preferably with them!)

This dude deserves two pics, one with both me and Brian. Really, can you get any better than a drug addicted, skin head cutter? I think not! (I was a little bit afraid of him.)

A lovely Estonian couple

Mike! Ha, he didn't even know he was part of the game.

Finnish boyfriend

And my personal favorite: My nerdy husband!!

If you want to add some excitement to your next vacation, give this game a try!!

Hugging is Awkward

2010-08-18T22:07:00.004-06:00

The past few months I have attended several weddings, mission farewells and a funeral or two. These events (and others like them) provide the opportunity to hug, reaffirming my belief that hugging is AWKWARD. Come on, we all know it is. But we just keep on doing it. After Casey died, I hugged about 1.27 million people, which qualifies me as an expert hugger. (Pretty impressive for a non-hugger.)
If hugging makes you uncomfortable and even a little stressed out, I suggest finding a hug style that works within your comfort zone.

HUG STYLES:

The Straight up Embrace: This hug is commonly used by huggers. It is the "I'm in your personal space, I am bursting you bubble, I am touching your body with as much of my body as I possibly can." type of hug. I reserve this type of hug for family members only and usually just to annoy them.
The Lean In: This hug is performed by bending at the waist and leaning your head and shoulders towards the person you are hugging. This hug style allows you to avoid any unnecessary contact below the shoulders.
The Baby Burp: Can be used in combination with The Lean In. During the embrace you gently pat the hug recipient on the back and say "Ohhhhhhhhhh."
The Shoulder/Handshake: This hug is done by grabbing shoulders while shaking hands. Men frequently use this hug style because it is more intimate than a plain handshake, but they are still able to avoid any man on man contact.
The Heimlich Hug: This is just a regular hug with a quick, tight squeeze added. I like this style because it lets people know the hug is over now. My niece, Morgan, likes this hug and she doesn't even have personal space issues. I think she just likes to shock people.
The Side Hug: This is my personal favorite. You just put your arm around the other persons waist and touch shoulders and hips. If you want even less contact, you can just put your hand on their back. I like this style because it allows you to keep all your carefully built walls in tact, you do not need to breathe the same air and you can even avoid eye contact if necessary.
The High School Dance Picture: I almost forgot this one. It is usually by accident that you end up with this hug. It happens when one hugger goes for the Side Hug and the other goes for the Shoulder/Handshake. You end up with your arms around each other, holding hands in front. Way awkward!

If you are aware of any other hug styles...please share. I am always looking for a better way to avoid any awkward contact.

***This post is dedicated to Morgan McCaleb...because she is a "bad hugger."

Experiencing Stockholm Syndrome

2010-08-09T07:13:00.000-06:00

Brian and I started our Baltic vacation in Sweden. We were very tired, so Stockholm didn't leave much of an impression.

But we did get to experience a beautiful Swedish Sunset.

Dear Hollywood Movie Producer,

2010-07-24T13:48:00.000-06:00

Could you PLEASE stop making movies longer than 2 hours? My attention span is 2 hours, if you make a movie longer than 2 hrs. (say 148 minutes), I can not stay focused. Your fore-moviemaking-fathers knew the average American could not pay attention for more than 2 hours. They stuck with the format and movies were enjoyed by all. Be aware: All the extra, added "stuff" does not make your movie better, it just makes it longer. If you need help with editing just let me know, because my brain has already edited your movie to 120 minutes.

"C" Dogs

2010-07-10T13:23:00.002-06:00

My boys love the water, maybe in a previous life they were sea creatures!!

Flo-Rida...More than just a rapper

2010-07-10T13:00:00.000-06:00

To celebrate Colin's eleventh birthday, we rented the Flowrider at the Lindon Aquatic Center. Colin invited many, many boys to help him celebrate.

They had tons of fun on the boogie boards and a few even mastered the wake skate.

And everyone enjoyed an awesome crash or two!

It seems like yesterday...

2010-06-26T20:29:00.003-06:00

Colin was celebrating his first birthday,
But it really was his eleventh birthday!

**Yes, the cake does say "Happy Day of the Father." But it was the best cake, what would you do?

Relays and Rain

2010-06-21T16:15:00.003-06:00

The Central Utah Cancer Clinic always puts together a team for the American Cancer Society Relay For Life. We have been many times. There are always lots of fun activities to go along with the relay like: Karaoke, movies, massages, bounce houses, etc. This year there was just rain!! Brian signed us up to walk from 10pm until midnight and it rained and rained and rained. The rain caused most of the activities to shut down. So we just walked and walked and walked (mostly to keep warm). It was a different experience than Relays in the past, but still good and it only took about 24 hours to warm up after.

I want to rock-n-roll all night

2010-06-01T15:45:00.002-06:00

Brian, Bryson, Colin and I spent Saturday evening at The Miller Motorsports Raceway enjoying a little classic rock.

Styx welcomed us to The Grand Illusion,

Foreigner had us seeing Double Vision,

And Kansas wooed us to the Point Of No Return.

A great night was had by all, even while dealing with all the general admission crazies!

Weekend in New England

2010-05-24T15:13:00.009-06:00

Oh man, this is a little embarrassing, but I'm just going to go with it. Many, many, many years ago my friend, Suzanne and I lived back east for a few months. During this time we saw The B Willie Smith Band play in Boston. We enjoyed the show (OK, we looooved them) and decided to make it our quest to see them as many times as possible. Over the next several months I am proud to say, we accomplished our goal. There have been several moments since that time that I have been nostalgic and wishing that I had a little B Willie to listen to. During one of these moments I did some googling to find out if this was possible; downloads, cd's, anything. After being added to a emailing list, asked to join their facebook page, that nothing was available. The recording company owns the rights to their music, and they will not release it. But, they were doing a reunion show in Connecticut.

Brian being as sweet as ever (and feeling pressure to get a Mother's Day gift) decided if he could bring B Willie to me, he would bring me to B Willie and surprised me with a trip to Connecticut.

While there we enjoyed: good food

beautiful beaches
and fantastic music.

Pretty much the best Mother's Day gift ever!!

Colin's Acting Debut

2010-05-18T19:32:00.006-06:00

Last week Colin and his friend, Alex performed in the play The Wonderful Witches of Oz. It was a cross between The Wizard of Oz and Wicked with a little Harry Potter thrown in. Colin played the role of Henry Gale. Alex played the Wizard.

Colin wasn't sure about the whole singing and dancing part, he was more into acting.

In typical Colin fashion, he did mess with his umbrella enough to have one of the prongs broken before the song even began.
A few times Colin and Alex seemed to forget they were on stage and they had there own "play" going on.

It wasn't quite as long as "the big show", but every bit as enjoyable!!

Brian Regan

2010-05-17T17:10:00.006-06:00

For Christmas Janae and Jamielyn gave us tickets to see Brian Regan at the Tuacahn in Snow Canyon. The weather was beautiful.

We had a little Cassidy time, which mostly consists of eating alot.

And Brian Regan lived up to our expectations. Funny, funny guy!!

...You Might Be Cassidy

2010-05-07T01:10:00.002-06:00

If you would rather sleep on the floor than make your bed...you might be Cassidy.
If seeing a deer on the side of the road is exciting...you might be Cassidy.
If you think 11:00 pm is a good time for chatting...you might be Cassidy.
If you have ever read a Harry Potter/Twilight book cover to cover; without breaking for food, sleep or life in general...you might be Cassidy.
If you take the best "funny face" pictures...you might be Cassidy.
If you could live the rest of your life eating just noodles...you might be Cassidy.
If you think scars are the best tattoos...you might be Cassidy.
If the word MOIST creeps you out...you might be Cassidy.
If you understand the chocolate/peanut butter ratio...you might be Cassidy.
If you frequently say, "I did a dance to this song."...you might be Cassidy.
If you don't understand why people only have 2 sets of grandparents...you might be Cassidy.
If you get "mall sick"...you might be Cassidy.
If you love to dress up for Halloween...you might be Cassidy.
If you think washing your car might ruin it...you might be Cassidy.
If your "best" friends are all 50+ years older than you...you might be Cassidy.
If have ever worn jammie pants 25 days in a row...you might be Cassidy.
If you are everyone's favorite...you might be Cassidy.
If you live the Golden Rule and try to treat others the way you want to be treated... you might be Cassidy.
If you are beautiful on the inside and out...you might be Cassidy.

Happy 23rd Birthday!!

2010-04-29T14:25:00.002-06:00

Is there a need for adoptive grandmommys? Because I think I would be really good at it!

Classic

2010-04-24T10:13:00.002-06:00

Last night at the Jazz game a very scantily dressed Mrs. Kirilenko walked by. The 11ish year old boy sitting behind us says, "Was that really Mrs. Kirilenko? Wow! She needs a bigger shirt." Classic.

If it is good enough for my puppy...

2010-04-22T14:35:00.005-06:00

It is good enough for my grandbaby. Sophie came over to play today and this is where she wanted to be. She did want me to be right next to her, but she wanted to be in the crate with the doors shut. When it was time to leave I put Tulo in his crate and Sophie cried, "No,no", she then ran over and got in with him. Haha, she is too funny!

My dog has an eating disorder!!

2010-04-21T14:37:00.003-06:00

Bea"UTAH"ful

2010-04-16T14:55:00.007-06:00

Tuesday evening as we were getting ready for bed, Colin said "Oh, Mom, tomorrow I have a program. We are doing it at 10:00 and 1:00. Parents can come if they want. And I want to suit up."

The fourth grader at Sage Creek just finished their unit on Utah History. They learned and performed several songs and a few kids even square danced. Colin promises that he was actually singing...but I don't know; it looks a little like bad lip syncing to me.

P.S. Just pretend we are having an earthquake and the videoing won't seem quite so jerky.

I thought this was a baseball game...

2010-04-14T17:47:00.005-06:00

Brian and I had the opportunity to attend the Rockies Home Opener at Coors Field last weekend. Game 1 was great! Beautiful, sunny day, great seats and the Rockies win 7-0.

Game 2 started out great. A little cold out, but still good seats and the Rockies are up 2-0 and then this guy shows up!! Have you ever seen an obnoxious, loud, foul mouthed drunk and thought to yourself, "That is why I don't drink."? That was this guy. He spent most of the game standing up, turned around, talking (OK, yelling) at the 2 couples behind him and the one next to him. This dude was in love with them; he was buying beer for everyone, taking pictures of them, I think he actually invited them to Christmas dinner. A little distracting for a baseball game, but we were trying to ignore it and watch the game...now tied up 4-4.

But then someone dropped the O-bomb...OBAMA! I haven't heard so many F words since the opening scene of Pulp Fiction. I was reminded of the old saying: I went to a fight and a baseball game broke out. Of course, the game went 14 innings so we were able to enjoy the director's cut version of this drama. Moral of the story: What's more American than baseball? Definitely not Obama. Oh, yeah, the Rockies lost 4-5.

The Living Planet Aquarium...eww!

2010-04-04T13:04:00.005-06:00

A few days ago we went with Courtney and Sophie to see the penguins at The Living Planet Aquarium. Sophie pointed at everything we saw and said, "Eww!" and it was more of an eww, that is yucky; than an eww, that is neat.

She did like splashing in the Stingray water, but not if the Stingrays were close by.

By the time we got to the Utah fish, Sophie was pretty much done. She had no interest in the trout.

The Derby

2010-03-26T22:37:00.007-06:00

Tuesday morning about 9:30 I found a note on my door inviting my family to attend the Pinewood Derby that evening. "WHAT THE HECK?? Pack meeting is the last Tuesday of the month not tonight. Oh, wait. Pack meeting is the FOURTH Tuesday of the month, that is tonight." Panic began to set in...we did not have a car. My first thought: Colin will just have to use the car he made last Derby. Oops, that's not going to work. Can't find Colin's car. Second thought: Colton's car, he could use Colton's old car. Oops, that's not going to work. Can't find Colton's car. Next thought: Bryson, I will text Bryson and see if he has a car we could use. Oops, that's not going to work. Bryson can't find his car.

At 4:00 pm Colin, Tulo and I put together a car for the race. After a trip to Allen's for "the wedge," sand paper, weights and a tattoo skin, we were ready to go. Colin's car was epic. There were 24 cars racing and Colin was in the top 5. Three cars tied for third, but do to time constraints, they did not get to race each other.

All in all it was a fun night and I even learned a few things:

The Pinewood Derby could be renamed The Daddywood Derby
The Pinewood Derby could be renamed The Testosterone Derby (The hint of estrogen in Colin's car made several people uncomfortable.)
Ward basketball's got nothin' on the derby
A car made in 2 hours can perform as well as "professionally" made cars. Always use "the wedge."
After the Derby, store your cars in a safe, easy to find place. You never know when you will need it.

What's so cool about Hawaii???

2010-03-18T03:59:00.002-06:00

1. Whales, of course
2. Rainbows

3. The Ocean

4. Sand (OK, maybe not really sand)

4. Waterfalls

6. Glow Putt Golf

7. Dunking at the pool

8. Hikes to the blow hole......in the rain 9. Golden Brown Flesh

10. Snorkeling

11. and Sunsets

How Much is Your Integrity Worth?

2010-03-10T09:08:00.003-07:00

We found out the hard way, that for some, their integrity is only worth a set of Walmart beach chairs. We left our snorkel gear, towels and chairs on the beach while we walked up to the pool. When we came back ten minutes later our chairs were gone, vanished, hasta luego baby. Seriously, who steals someones $15 beach chairs. All I can say is I hope they needed them more than we did.

The NBA All Attractive Team

2010-02-12T19:08:00.009-07:00

In honor of the NBA All Star Weekend (which has nothing to do with all stars and everything to do with who sells the most jerseys) I have created my own all star team. The only qualification needed to be picked for my team is to possess an above average level of attractiveness. In other words, you need to be good lookin'!!

The number one vote getter for 2010 (yes, I am the only one voting) is ... RAJA BELL-just look at that smile
The remaining members on my team, not listed in any particular order, are:

Dwight Howard-He gets extra points for that body

Joel Pryzbella-Attractive and come on, his name is Pryzbella

Steve Nash-Maybe it's the hair, maybe it's his Canadian heritage

Tony Parker-Prettier than Eva Longoria

Marc Gasol- Pau may have got the talent, but Marc definitely got the looks

Jason Williams-How can I not pick him? He is a blond headed Casey

Robin Lopez-Definitely the hair and possibly the long socks

And the lifetime achievement award goes to...Brian Grant. Seriously, can you get any cuter than this?!!

How Cute Is This??

2010-02-02T16:26:00.006-07:00

Who knew that one little squishy ball could provide Tulo with so many hours of entertainment.

Guilty Pleasures

2010-01-31T20:21:00.007-07:00

I think in a previous life I may have been an F-Chick because I love Freestyle Motocross. It is really hard for me to pass up a chance to go. So, I usually don't and Saturday was no exception.

Nick Dunne definitely had the most original trick: The Captain Morgan

And we even stayed to get autographs from these role models.

MLK Weekend Fun

2010-01-20T16:22:00.010-07:00

Thanks to Martin Luther King Jr. we were able to enjoy a 4 day weekend in sunny St. George. We, of course, started out the trip by looking at homes. This has become a trend in our trips down south, maybe by the time we retire we will have figured out what we actually want and be ready to buy one.

The next day we enjoyed visiting Creepy Colorado City. What a crazy place, we tried to be friendly and wave at the little polyg kids, but they ran and hid from us. Maybe we looked like government workers. How do you live in an unfinished home with 25 other people?

We had lunch at the Hurricane City Park, where Cassidy hooked up with a Pioneer family.

We also did a little hiking in Zions National Park. The signs said "No dogs allowed," but that just seemed silly. Who would not allow our pretty dog?

Brian thinks Zions is one of the prettiest places on earth. (He thinks that about alot of places.)

Colin did come home with wet shoes. What a surprise.

The ice, snow and mud made for some adventurous hiking.

All in all it was a very stress free weekend enjoyed by everyone who participated.

Brian's New Toy

2010-01-18T19:40:00.003-07:00

How could he pass it up? With all the year end rebates and incentives they were practically giving it away.

Driving with Colin is extra enjoyable, he now will point out every F150, 250 and 350 on the road. Sometimes he will even throw in a Dodge Ram, just to make sure you are paying attention.

Geeky Jazz Fans

2010-01-15T16:29:00.004-07:00

So, I know the throwback jerseys are way cool. But really does anyone, besides Paul Millsap, look good in this color? NO!!

I guess the players like it because this green makes you appear larger than you actually are and if you are playing basketball that is a good thing. But if you are just sitting watching the game, appearing larger is not really an advantage.

And what up with the freaky eye stare?? Oh well, It was the best game of the year.

A Little Christmas Cheer

2010-01-09T09:21:00.009-07:00

Without Colton to wake us up at 5:00 am, our Christmas morning didn't start until 8:30. At the MTC, Colton made his companions wake up at 6:00 am to open presents.

Tulo was trying his hardest to get in on the fun.
The feared had finally happened: Colin did not get off Santa's naughty list before Christmas and ended up with COAL!

Nothing says Christmas like a can of Rainbow Chip Frosting in your stocking.

Bryson was excited about his vibrant, silky boxer briefs!!

Brian was excited with his Official MLB Mother's Day/Breast Cancer Awareness Bat.

The shirt says it all.

What do you get the BYU fan who has everything???

The best Christmas gift of all: A Brazilian Visa. Colton's visa came through Monday, Dec 28th. He left for Brazil Tuesday, Dec. 29th. Arriving in Brazil Wednesday, Dec. 30th!!

A Jumble of Emotions

2009-11-23T17:35:00.007-07:00

On November 17th, at 1:00 pm we left Colton at the Missionary Training Center. It has been a little traumatic. Yes, I know that a mission is a great thing, he is exactly where I want him to be, it would be alot more traumatic if he didn't want to serve a mission, he will grow and learn so much, it will be a great experience, my family will be blessed and... any other words of wisdom we offer each other when a missionary leaves. But it still, selfishly, makes me cry.

Colton has always had a special place in my heart. (Some people even think he is my favorite.) I have always been very protective of Colton, This possibly stems from his dad dying when he was barely four. When Cassidy and Colton were little, everyone loved Cassidy. She is a little bit of a suck up, which causes lots of people to like her ALOT. Colton is not a pleaser, he is very true to himself and sometimes he comes across a little indifferent. I have said many tines in jest, that Colton is harder to love and so I needed to love him more, because he wasn't going to get it from anyone else.

I am proud of Colton and his choice to serve a mission. I love that he does not conform and always finds a way to show his unique style. I am happy that he realized it was important to do well in school. Even if that meant taking "the nerdy, smart kid classes," instead of classes with friends.

The next 2 years will be the best/worst years ever. In the words of Colton's best friend, "It's good thing it isn't 7th grade Colton going on a mission. Because 7th grade Colton would get sent home for beating up his companion."

Don't Go Around Breakin' Young Girls Hearts...

2009-10-28T16:03:00.002-06:00

The Wonderful World of Disney

2009-10-18T20:01:00.009-06:00

A few of the things I learned on my vacation:

Never visit Florida when they are having record breaking temperatures

Colin has a wacky hat fetish

Taking crazy pics passes the time during a thunderstorm

Still a fan of 3D glasses

Hidden Mickeys!!!

You are never too old for face paint

Bats are NASTY
(Seriously, we witnessed a bat rape)

Vacations are more fun with good friends

I will never live in Florida because my hair will look like this!

Donald is still the favorite

This is our new favorite.

Deklin and I have a lot in common:

POPCORN

and "Debbie Juice"

Colton is always ready to "go back to the room."

What Was I Thinking??!!

2009-09-29T18:50:00.005-06:00

My actions last week have caused me to question my sanity. The chain reaction started with not knowing what to get Brian for his birthday. He had given me several ideas, but they were just lame things he would buy himself. Then came Dr. Oz. Dang you Dr Oz!! As I was getting ready for the day, Dr. Oz was on. I wasn't really watching, but I could hear him stating how good walking was for you and if you needed motivation you should get a dog to walk with you. And finally, I am an insomniac!! Not being able to sleep led to looking at puppies on ksl.com. Looking at puppies on ksl.com led to this:

Seriously...Who could turn down that sweet, little face?

I Love To See the Temple

2009-09-20T14:34:00.005-06:00

I love to see the temple

I'm going there someday

Yesterday we had the opportunity to attend

the temple with Colton

There is nothing better than seeing your children

making good choices and becoming successful adults

Staying true to his personality, Colton did NOT think a

haircut or a clean shaven face was needed
Is there really ever an inappropriate time to take the
funny face picture?

We ended the day with lunch at, of course,

Tucano's Brazilian Grill

Missionary Shopping with Colton

2009-09-10T15:04:00.002-06:00

In the car:

Colton "So, how many stores do we have to go to?"
Mom "I don't know. We probably want to look around a little."
Colton "I just want my suit to be thin."
Mom "It needs to last 2 years."
Colton "Ya, but I just want it to be thin."
Colton "If we find everything at the first store, can we go home?"
Mom "We should probably look around a little."
Colton "But if I find what I want in the first store, can we go home?"
Mom "We'll see."

First store:
Suit area:

Salesman "What color do you like? Black, Charcoal, Navy?
Colton "Charcoal"
Salesman "That looks like it is the right size for you? Do you like it?"
Colton "Ya, this one's good. Mom, I like this one. It's comfortable."
Mom "Don't you want to try on a few more?"
Colton "No... this one's comfortable."
Salesman "You need 5 extra pants. They are right here."
Colton " How 'bout 2 gray, 2 black and 1 navy."

Tie area:

Mom "Are these ties ok? They seem a little loud."
Salesman "They are fine. Just don't wear the bright ones in the MTC."
Colton "Can I get the pink one and the white one?"
Mom "You need a couple more."
Colton picks plain black and plain navy.

Shirt area:

Salesman "How many do you need, about 8 short sleeve?"
Colton "These are good." while picking up 8.

Shoe area:

Mom "We might need to look around for shoes, because Colton is a freak about comfort."
Salesman "Oh no, these shoes are the best ever...blah, blah, blah."
Colton tries on 3 pairs.
Colton "I want the first ones and the last ones."
Mom good brands, did not protest.

Mom "Colton, don't you think we should look around?"
Colton "No, I'm good."
Colton "Are we going home after this?"

Leaving first store:

Colton "Are we going home now?"
Mom "Colton, we still need to get a few things."
Colton "Can't you get those without me?"
Mom "Colton, we need to do a few more things?"
Colton "OK, but can we go to Panda?"

Not quite the same as wedding dress shopping with Cassidy.

I don't want to go off on a rant, but...

2009-08-24T15:59:00.005-06:00

I consider myself a fairly tolerant person. I am generally willing to give people the benefit of the doubt, but there are somethings I can not let go: PUBLIC BATHROOMS and WOMEN. I just don't get it. I see ladies entering and exiting stalls, I see them washing their hands, fixing their makeup. They don't look like they grew up in the back hills of Mississippi, they don't look like they have an aunt, sister and cousin that are all the same person. These ladies look like they have been taught manners, they understand common courtesy. So, I just don't get it. I understand that germs are bad, I don't like them either. But does their aversion to germs trump all other bathroom users. Do they not realize that in their quest to stay germ free, they leave a splattering of germs for the next user to deal with? I just don't get it.

If you fall into this category, let me give you a little advice: WIPE OFF THE TOILET SEAT! (Preferably with a Clorox wipe.)

My Little Phelps

2009-08-16T19:44:00.002-06:00

This summer, Colin has been on the Riverside Swim Team. On August 1st he competed at the Utah County Championship Meet. Colin placed first in the 25M Breaststroke, 9/10 yr old boys, with a personal best 21.72 seconds.

Colin learned to breaststroke a few years ago and it is his FAVORITE stroke. He has never lost a race. This year he had some serious competition and was a little nervous before the race. But he swam his best and came out on top. (OK, he couldn't help himself: right before the wall, he did have to look over to see where the other swimmers were. Maybe next year he'll break that bad habit!)

"Baseball is like church: Many attend but few understand."

2009-08-09T00:14:00.006-06:00

Take me out to the ballgame

Take me out with the crowd

Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack

I don't care if I never get back

Let me root, root, root for the Braves team

If they don't win, it's a shame

For it's ONE

TWO

THREE strikes you're OUT

At the old ballgame

The Lord Works In Mysterious Ways

2009-07-31T15:29:00.004-06:00

Colton has been working diligently on accomplishing his pre-mission goals. But with one slip of the hand, his dream was shattered. A few days ago, while shaving and trimming his redman beard, his hand slipped. He had no choice but to shave it off. My only regret is that I did not get a better picture before it was gone. He had about 10 days more growth after this pic was taken.

I Want To Ride My Bicycle...I Want To Ride My Bike

2009-07-27T16:10:00.006-06:00

I woke up this morning to this:
Promptly went to the emergency room because of this:

Andy, the tech, got to work repairing this:

Left the ER with this:

Went home to recover looking like this:
This morning, while riding his pedal bike up Diamond Fork, Brian had a run in with a Cattle Guard. He was about 7 miles from his car and, of course, no cell service. He started to walk his bike back to his car, when some good Samaritans stopped and gave him a ride. (Only the 2nd car he had seen during his ride.) Amazingly, no facial fractures. But tomorrow Dr. Johnson will be "firing a couple pins" into his hand to repair the break.

Moral of the story: Always wear a helmet

P.S. We had a "Dr. McDreamy" in the ER, but I did not get his picture. Dang!

Public Service Announcement

2009-07-24T18:49:00.003-06:00

I don't know how many of you suffer from "remote control dysfunction", but in our house this is a frequent problem. When watching TV in our bedroom the remote controlling the satellite has to be held at the perfect angle and position to be effective and if someone is on the right side of the bed, you are totally out of luck. FRUSTRATING!!!

If you experience these difficulties, I have the answer to solve your troubles. DO NOT point the remote towards the television, DO NOT point the remote towards the receiver, DO NOT point the remote towards the dish...DO point the remote against your body. Seriously, put the remote up to your chin, your chest, your leg (the fatty part works better), really just about anywhere. I know this sounds like a Crazy Witch Doctor Remedy, but if it works WHO CARES???

My sister, Larinda, tried this and was not as successful as I was. I had her try it while we were on the phone: Maybe her cell phone interfered, quite possibly she was doing it wrong, or maybe she isn't as magnetic as me.

This discovery may have just saved my marriage (studies show that disputes over the remote control are the leading cause of divorce). I wish you all the same success I have experienced.

It Is Good To Have Goals

2009-07-17T19:22:00.004-06:00

Colton received his mission call and will be serving in the Brazil Londrina Mission. He leaves for Brazil on November 17th, 2009. Here are a few goals Colton is working to accomplish before he leaves for his mission:

Read the Book of Mormon

Study the Preach My Gospel handbook

Learn more about Brazil

Buy and beat every PS3 game released between now and Nov. 15th

Grow THIS beard:

Stay tuned for updates on his progress.

Summer Fun

2009-07-15T11:52:00.006-06:00

I will be the first one to admit I am not the "Kool-Aid Mom". I don't like the mess, I don't like the noise, I don't like the free-for-all. I had a weak moment Monday and pulled out the waterslide. Colin and Cougar thought they were olympic divers: going down the slide and then sitting in the hot tub. Allyson's seizures prohibit her from being involved in most activities. Seeing her excited smile was worth all the hassle.

The Fun Part of Las Vegas

2009-06-08T23:56:00.004-06:00

Breakfast at Blueberry Hill

Everybody loves GREEN M&M's
or as Colton likes to call them mandms.

I love 3D glasses pictures.
Checkout the kid behind Colin, he is my favorite.

And, of course, The Offspring!!!

Ridding the World of Pornography One Naked Picture at a Time

2009-06-02T21:15:00.002-06:00

Last weekend, I went with my family to Las Vegas to attend The Offspring concert. Saturday afternoon we did a few of the typical Las Vegas things: saw the lions at the MGM, went to the M&M Factory, sampled the Cokes from Around World at the Coke Shop. After the Coke Shop we sat outside for a minute to decide what to do next. As I looked around, I saw several "playing cards" scattered all over the sidewalk. But these weren't your regular playing cards, these all had pictures of naked women accompanied with a phone # to call. I stood up and starting picking up the cards, Cassidy, in her best freak out voice, said "Mooommmm, what are you doing???" I continued to pick up all the cards in my area and throw them in the trash. I realize that there are still multi-thousands of pictures still lying on the streets of Vegas, but I can't help think "all that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."

The Graduate

2009-05-31T18:03:00.012-06:00

I can't believe this little SWEETHEART is now:

This BIG kid!

The Siblings

Friends

BFF's

The Parentals

The Grandparents

Bryson's Graduation was the same day, tight scheduling did not allow us to get any good pictures. Hopefully we will get some from his Mom.

At the Marriott Center, Cassidy and Colin showed their LOVE for Bryson and the U.

I Think I've Been Sexually Abused

2009-05-06T14:36:00.003-06:00

Earlier today I went to have my toenails done. The sun is out, the weather is warm, it isn't going to rain for at least a week, it is time for cute toenails. When I arrive at the nail place there are 2 ladies just finishing with their nails, the wait is about 20 minutes. I have come prepared, so I sit down to enjoy a few minutes reading my book. I am totally minding my own business, engrossed in my book, when the lady drying her nails under the lights says, "Would you do me a favor?" She proceeds to ask me if I will reach into the back pocket of her tighty mom jeans and get her money out for her and I DO IT!!!

I Need To Clarify

2009-04-23T19:41:00.004-06:00

It appears I need to clear up a few things about my previous post.

First: I love Chuck E. Cheese. It is a favorite lunch spot for Larinda, Tabitha and I. We eat breadsticks, play skeeball, and get boat loads of tickets (I am the master of the Magic Monkey Game.) Chuck E. Cheese is an excellent choice for a midweek lunch outing, especially if the adult to child ratio is 2 to 1.

Second: Those of you that know me well, know that I FONDLY refer to Disneyland as Disneyhell. It is a term of endearment. The 3 days of my life that I have spent at Disneyland when it was not packed to maximum capacity were very enjoyable.

Third: I like ethnicity. I am Norwegian, my daughter is German, and my husband is Serbian.
And if you come right down to it aren't we all really Edenese?!

Fourth: If you claim to LOVE Disneyland and are not willing to give Chuck E. Cheese a chance, you need get out of your Disney comfort zone and embrace new things. I gave Disneyland a chance!!!

Lastly: It is not the places you go, it is the people you go with that make it great.

Spring Break

2009-04-21T12:12:00.006-06:00

WARNING: The following post may be offensive to Disney lovers.

Last year my sister, Larinda, and I took our kids to Disneyland for Spring Break. This year the pressure was on to plan a vacation equally as enjoyable. I am happy to report we accomplished the task at hand. This year we visited Ghetto-Disney,more commonly referred to as Chuck E. Cheese. Some of you may not have realized that these two companies are connected, but after careful observation the similarities cannot be ignored. Chuck E. Cheese must be the sister (OK, ugly stepsister) company of Disneyland.
Observations:

Both have odd, pedophilish men dressed as mice, hugging small children
Both provide an opportunity to embrace ethnic diversity
Both offer over priced food
Both offer quality "shows"
Both have obviously bribed the fire marshall to overlook the maximum occupancy limitations
Both allow strangers to touch, bump, grab and invade your personal space
You leave both with armloads of sh** that you will never use

So the next time you need a little vacation, remember Chuck E. Cheese can fill all the same needs as Disneyland.

P.S. Colin wrote the captions

Everyone having lunch.

Colton liked the shooting games.
Tabitha like rides, not much the games.
I was doing good at skee ball.

Hadlee liked games, not like Tabitha,
but scored alot of tickets.
Tabitha did NOT want to be ignored,
she also didn't pay alot of attention.

Hershey Track Meet

2009-04-15T23:17:00.007-06:00

On Tuesday I attended the 3rd Grade Hershey Track Meet. All the third graders from Springville and Mapleton are invited to compete. There were 7 elementary schools competing, about 700 kids. Everyone can choose 3 events, Colin chose the 100m, 200m and the Standing Long Jump. Colin is kind of a goof and not really competitive. You never know if he is going to take things serious and do his best or be like... whatever. He did a really good job and had a lot of fun.

Colin had signed up to do the softball throw. At the last minute he switched to the standing long jump because the line was shorter. As you can tell by his unique form ( shouldn't you jump out, not up) he had never practiced this event, but he jumped 60 inches which seemed pretty good to his mommy.
It was sleeting and windy and cold, a perfect day for a track meet.

Colin doing some serious stretching before the 100m semifinals.

A Day With Deklin

2009-03-18T17:36:00.013-06:00

Yesterday, while Melanie attended an adoption conference, I got to play with Deklin for the day. We had such a good time. His mom never leaves him, so I wasn't sure if it would be stressful for him. I am happy to report, it was not. Deklin may have been a hard baby, but he is the easiest toddler ever. Deklin loved the "horhee."

Deklin did NOT love the swing.

Deklin suffers from "Species Identity Disorder." Am I a puppy... Am I a boy? I guess that's what happens when you have three brothers and they're dogs.

What a cute kid, I can't wait until we can play again.

Before and After

2009-03-03T19:54:00.007-07:00

Before

After

And A Few Days In Between

So You Think You Can Dance

2009-02-16T19:24:00.006-07:00

One of the most anticipated events at Springville High School is the D'Males performance. Each year the D'Velles (The Springville Drill Team) choreograph and teach the senior boys a dance to perform at the last home basketball game. Check out the one in the lime green, he's almost as good as his sister!

I don't want to go off on a rant, but...

2009-02-12T14:53:00.005-07:00

What up with Bob?!!! I love "The Biggest Loser." I have been sucked in since season 2. I love that every season they switch things up to get rid of the game play, or at least foil the plans of the game players. And since season 2 I have loved Bob. He was always so caring and sweet, he always seemed real. Jillian is way to over the top and Kim was just pathetic. So, what up with Bob trying to manipulate everyone in the game? I can't believe after the weigh in, he was telling all his team they had to vote off Dane and only Dane. Bob is the biggest game player on the show, he doesn't care about his team, he just wants to guarantee someone from his team wins (which they never do.) He will sacrifice anyone to try and get a winner. Last season he guilted Amy into voting off Coleen instead of Vicki, and that move cost her the game. I was so happy that Bob's team did not listen to him. They voted the way they wanted to and not the way Bob wanted them to, they voted off Blaine. Bob, you're a trainer! Get over yourself!! Man, I feel better!

Sound Of Madness

2009-02-05T21:45:00.006-07:00

I saw this on Brooke's blog and it sounded fun. I didn't intend on putting this on my blog, but it ended up being kind of funny and I have NOTHING happening to blog about.

RULES:

Put your ITunes, Windows Media Player on shuffle (I used my Ipod.)
For each question, press the next button to get your answer
Write down song name, no matter how silly it sounds
Have fun

IF SOMEONE SAYS "ARE YOU OK" YOU SAY ...?
Come out and Play - The Offspring
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
Hollywood Wh**e - Papa Roach
WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A GUY/GIRL?
Sin with a Grin - Shinedown
HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
Defy You - The Offspring
WHAT IS YOUR LIFES PURPOSE?
Rise Above This - Seether
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
Afterlife - Avenged Sevenfold
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Somebody to Love - Queen
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Can't Repeat - The Offspring
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
When I Come Around - Green Day
WHAT DID YOU THINK OF YOUR FIRST KISS?
Gives You Hell - All American Rejects
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
Shake Ya Tailfeathers - Nelly
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
If the Savior Stood Beside Me - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
Route 66 - Sam Cook
WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
The Rockafeller Skank - Fatboy Slim
WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
Tainted Love - Soft Cell
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
What's New Pussycat - Tom Jones
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
Jailhouse Rock - Elvis
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FEAR?
Seize the Day - Avenged Sevenfold
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
Alot Like Me - Three Days Grace
WHAT DO YOU WANT RIGHT NOW?
AM Radio - Everclear
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
Need You Tonight - INXS
WHAT WILL YOU NAME THIS POST?
Sound of Madness - Shinedown

Matinee Movie Friday

2009-01-31T15:40:00.005-07:00

Because Brian does not work on Fridays and we do not have small children any more, Brian and I try to go to the matinee on Fridays. Yesterday we saw New In Town. The storyline was totally predictable, but it was really funny. This movie made smile because:

I have cute, crazy scrapbooking friends
I live in Utah, NOT Minnesota
My husband likes chick flicks more than I do

15 Minutes Of Fame

2009-01-19T11:59:00.004-07:00

Cassidy was "chosen" to be one of the featured brides in Utah Valley Bride Magazine, winter edition. The magazine called Cassidy in November to let her know she was going to be in the magazine. We didn't have any idea what pictures they were using until we saw the magazine, I think it turned out great. I scanned these pics and they turned out way grainy, so if you get a chance, check out the magazine.

What Color Tie Should I Wear?

2009-01-13T14:44:00.012-07:00

My cute, neice Morgan went to the Preference Dance at her high school last weekend. Morgan is NOT a crowd follower and she did not want to go to the dance and end up with the same dress as 12 other girls. So she was looking online for unique prom dresses and found this cool dress she could order that was made out of ties. But she did not have time to order it. Her mom wanted her to wait and order it for another dance. Morgan was determined to have this dress, so she enlisted the help of my sister Janae (not her mother.) Janae has the ability and desire to look at about anything and make it herself. (Maybe she was adopted, because this is not a trait anyone else in my family has.)

Look how cute!!

The ties were donated by dads, uncles and cousins. Check out the cute converse boots.

Christmas

2009-01-05T12:25:00.008-07:00

Ok, so I didn't take any pictures of Christmas this year. I'm not sure why, I had the camera out, all ready to go, but some how never really took any. Maybe because there was no Cassidy.

Colton thought it was the best Christmas ever, because he unexpectedly received an XBox 360. How big of a nerd are you if you have a PS3, Nintendo WII and an XBox?

I didn't take pictures, but Brian did take hours of video. Nothing says fun like rewatching the opening of gifts (especially with Brian's commentary.) Brian didn't think he was getting anything GOOD because he didn't KNOW what he was getting. (Could his wife actually pick things out without being told?) He was pleasantly surprised. I think his favorite was the GPS w/bluetooth for the FJ. He has been coveting the bluetooth in my car for the past 2 months.

Colin got a cool nitrous scooter, fishing pole, and an Ipod Touch. And yes, you can all agree with Colton, there is no reason a nine year old needs an Ipod Touch.

Cassidy is all grown up, so she just got $$$.

I got this cool new laptop, that has nifty new features I don't know what to do with.

Christmas was very nice, we missed Cassidy, but we spent time with my family and our cute, little grandbaby. All things considered, I would give it 2 enthusiastic thumb's up! (And my christmas is all put away!!)

2009-01-02T23:00:00.001-07:00

GO UTES!!!

Pray For Easton

2008-12-22T19:41:00.000-07:00

Colton's childhood friend Easton was a passenger in the car accident in Provo Canyon this morning. His injuries are very, very serious. Please remember Easton and his family in your prayers.

Christmas Tag

2008-12-15T18:06:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the fun Christmas Tag, Marci:

Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper and ribbon!! I tie GREAT bows
Real tree or fake tree? I have one real tree and one fake. But I prefer real trees.
When do you put up your tree? I try to put it up the day before Thanksgiving.
When do you take it down? New Year's Day
Do you like eggnog? I hardly ever drink it, but, yes, I like it.
Favorite gift received as a child? When I was about 6 or 7 I got a Baby Chrissy Doll. She had red hair that could be made longer or shorter by turning a knob on her back. She was pretty tight.
Easiest person to buy for? Brian. He may not seem easy to buy for, but he has lots and lots and lots of hobbies. Like motorcycles, peddle bikes, guns, guitars, hunting, cooking, tennis, golf, singing, 4 wheeling, boating, skiing, hiking. His interest in his hobbies don't always last that long, but he usually times it so I can buy him all the accessories for his current obsession and then by the next holiday he has moved onto something new.
Do you have a nativity scene? I have the Lladro "Joyful Event" with a gres finish that I love and Brian gave me a Jim Shore nativity set last year. My kids favorite is our "ghetto" nativity that only has 2 wisemen.
Mail or Email Christmas cards? Mail!!! If you can not hold it in your hand it is not a Christmas card.
Worst gift you have ever received? One year Brian decided I needed a Victoria's Secret Christmas and I had about 8 VS Boxes under the tree, another year he bought me a pistol and he is still mad that I have never let him shoot it.
Favorite Christmas movie? My favorite is "Heidi", Brian's favorite is "It's a Wonderful Life", and my children love "Elf."
When do you start shopping for Christmas? You know, it doesn't really matter when I start, because I am NEVER finished until Christmas eve.
Have you ever recycled a Christmas gift? Yes. I am not a regiver, but one Christmas Brian got this hiking thing from IHC that we would never use. We had some friends that we thought would really like it, so we gave it to them. It still causes me stress to think about it.
Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Hershey's Extra Creamy Milk Chocolate Bells, Fudge and Reese's Peanut Butter Trees
Lights on tree? Is it an option to not have lights?
Can you name Santa's reindeer? No, but I can make up the ones I don't know.
Favorite Christmas song? Winter Wonderland by Annie Lennox
Travel or stay home? Stay home.
Angel or star tree topper? I'm really not a tree topper kind of person, we have neither
Open presents Christmas eve or Christmas day? Christmas Eve we open jammie pants, everything else Christmas morning.
Favorite Christmas tradition? My family does chinese food on Christmas Eve
Favorite ornament, theme or color? We have one tree that is all white. The tree is flocked, the ornaments, ribbons, lights and trim are clear or white. Even the presents are wrapped in white paper with white ribbon. I like to think of this as our "celestial" tree. We collect ornaments from places we go and my mom gives the kids a "special" ornament each year, so I have a lot of favorites. But I think the best is the 1/2 Doctor 1/2 Mermaid that Lance gave Brian. It is legendary.
Favorite Christmas dinner? Turkey, Rolls, Potato Salad at my mom's house
What do you want for Christmas? I'm hoping for a diamond bracelet like the one Boozer was wearing at the jazz game tonight.
Best Christmas present you have ever given? One year we surprised Brian with spinners on the Yukon.

I tag Cassidy, Megan, Jamielyn and Amber. Have Fun

Celebration of Life

2008-12-09T17:34:00.000-07:00

For the past several years Brian and the Central Utah Cancer Center sponsor the "Celebration of Life - Kurt Bestor Christmas Concert." Each year they buy tickets for Cancer Survivors and their families to attend the concert.

We attended this year with Colin, Kim, Colton, Grandpa, Morgan and Grandma. This year, before the concert ,they showed a video where several cancer survivors shared their cancer experience. It was very touching. Central Utah Clinic gives out flashlights to the cancer survivors and during the performance they are all asked to turn them on. Again, very touching and quite inspirational.

The highlight of the show was Brian performing "The Night Before Christmas" with Kurt and the orchestra. Kurt was making jokes about how boring Dr.'s are and telling Brian to try and have a little personality. So, of course; Brian, using his hidden thespian talent, stole the show. He was great.

I think the best part was hearing so many people thank Brian for "saving my daughter," "giving me one more Christmas," "making the cancer experience more bearable." It is nice to be reminded what an important role he plays in so many lives and how many people depend on him.

Our Christmas Tree Has A TuTu!!

2008-12-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning I asked Colton to set up our Christmas Tree. OK, I told Colton that he was going to put up the Christmas Tree. After several hours of, "Moooooomm, this is to hard., Moooooomm, look at all the scratches on my arms., Moooooomm, I can't get all the lights to work." we finally had the tree up and running (ok, we still had 3 small branches without lights working. But, in the words Brian Regan: That area represents the dark time in our life.) So, as we were fluffing up the branches, I noticed the tree looked a little off. After closer examination, I realized Colton had switched the #9 row with the #6 row! So now instead of a nice cone shaped tree, our tree has the largest row of branches right in the middle, giving the appearance of a tree with a tutu. Now a "good" mother probably would have made their son change it, but Christmas trees drive me crazy. I have often considered converting to Judaism just to avoid the Christmas tree tradition. (Menorahs are very pretty!) Rationalization allows me to believe that I was actually building my childs self esteem, by encouraging his creativity. And it was time to add another story to our: "Remember the year the Christmas tree..."

Colin's 7 Things

2008-11-19T16:07:00.000-07:00

Colin thinks I have taken over the blog and it is suppose to be "ours" not "mine." So, I tagged Colin.
COLIN'S 7 RANDOM THINGS:

Colin can do CRAZY toe tricks:

Colin laughs in his sleep. Sometimes I hear him laughing and I go into his bedroom thinking he is still awake watching TV. But he will be sound asleep giggling.
Colin loves stuffed animals. His favorite, right now, is a webkins dog named Fop. He sleeps with a minimum of six "furry friends."
Colin has been swimming with dolphins!

Colin has 2 1/2 siblings. 2 half brothers + 3 half sisters = 2 1/2 siblings
When Colin gets angry, frustrated, bugged, etc., he "gobbles. " The noise he makes to express his emotion sounds like a gobbling turkey.
Colin is allergic to homework. When it is time to do homework, he immediately becomes itchy. He can no longer focus on anything but itching.

Colin tags Lance and Cameron; because, like him, they are secondary bloggers.

Random 7

2008-11-13T16:22:00.000-07:00

My cute little Cassidy tagged me. I am suppose to share 7 random things about myself.

My favorite food is SALT. You may think I am just trying to be funny, but it is really true. I like foods that need a lot of salt. I never taste anything before I salt it because, of course, it will need salt. I hate restuarants that think one salt shaker can be shared by 6 people, at home everyone has their own salt shaker.

I hate tape. Yes, I use tape, but I use it properly. I hate when there are little hairs and dirt and scuzzy things stuck on the tape and you can see them. I hate when the edges curl up and the tape only partially sticks. I hate when something is taped up and then moved to a different spot using the same piece of tape. Tape should never be reused!

I listen to alternative, punk or hard rock. My radio presets are 94.9 and 96.3. My taste in music is most similar to Colton's (but his gets a little to screamy sometimes.) When I was young I listened to April Wine, ACDC, Van Halen. My current favorites are Avenged Sevenfold, Shinedown, Three Days Grace, The Offspring.

Having braces was the worst experience in my life. About 2 years ago I had braces for nine months. It was horrible!! Before you get braces no one tells you that: Braces will change the shape of your mouth, your smile will no longer look the same. Your lips will not properly fit over your teeth, this will cause pain and embarrassment when your lip catches on a bracket and stays there. Your teeth hurt; not your gums, not your jaw, your actual teeth. Your front teeth become totally useless; you will no longer be able to bite anything. If you can't cut it into small pieces, DO NOT plan on eating it. You must learn to swallow thing whole, because chewing is nearly impossible when your teeth no longer touch. You have never felt less attractive in your life. You will begin speaking with a lisp, your mouth can no longer determine how much spit you need; you will always have too much or not enough, but never the right amount. If you choose to have braces as an adult, make sure you do it with a friend. You will need someone to cry and complain and eat chocolate with. (Thank You Laurie)

I have a green eyed child, a blue eyed child, and a brown eyed child.

I can keep score in baseball. Now I don't mean keep score like: Braves 3 Rockies 0. I mean keeping score like how many hits, errors, past balls, stolen bases, earned runs, unearned runs. I figure batting averages, on base percentages, rbi's, etc. Keeping score in baseball is an art form.

I am a jammie person. Wow, it must run in the family. When I get up I will get already for the day and then put my jammies back on until I have to go somewhere. When I get home I immediately change back into jammie pants. And I hate when they are tight and hug your butt, Men's size large are the best

Colin, Larinda and Megan (start you blog!!) Tag, You're It!

Happy Halloween

2008-11-01T17:17:00.000-06:00

Grandpa Brian and Sophie Bee

Jack Skellington

The itchy bald wig only lasted about an hour.

We had to switch to hair paint.

I'm not exactly sure what Colton is,

But he never passes up a chance to wear eyeliner.

Colton, Bryson and Kim

LIFE OFF, GAME ON

2008-10-30T17:43:00.000-06:00

What kind of tag line is "Life Off, Game On?" I'm not sure who in the Jazz organization came up with this, but all it does for me is make me feel guilty for turning my life off to watch the Jazz. Oh, well... I'll just stick with the "Pure Adrenaline Rush," because I am excited for a new season of basketball and you can always deal with your guilt later. Unlike Brian, I'm not expecting them to win every game or win the championship, I just go hoping for a win and a free Big Mac!

Casey Loftus: April 7, 1966 - October 26, 1994

2008-10-26T10:28:00.000-06:00

Fourteen years ago today Casey passed away, after a two year battle with cancer. We still miss him and love him and think of him often. So, I thought I would share a few fun Casey facts:

Celebrity Look A Like

Debbie's Choice -Charlie Sheen, Cassidy's Choice- Tom Cruise, Brian's Choice- Chris Noth

Favorite Baseball Team - Atlanta Braves; Casey loved the Atlanta Braves. He loved the Braves pre-1990. When he had his Bone Marrow Transplant the University Hospital did not have cable TV. I had to tape all the Braves games, so he could still watch them.
Favorite Football Team - Atlanta Falcons
Favorite Basketball Team - Utah Jazz
Favorite Baseball Player - David Justice
Favorite Football Player - Primetime Deion Sanders
Favorite Basketball Player - John Stockton; Isn't he every short white man's favorite?
Favorite Movie - The last one he saw; just about every movie he saw would be his new favorite, until he saw another movie. Yes, Cassidy, you get this from your Dad.
Favorite Holiday - Halloween
Favorite College Class - Bowling; Casey wanted to go on the Pro Bowlers Tour and really believed this would be an acceptable career choice.
Casey broke his leg twice, both times playing soccer. Casey hated soccer.
Casey loved hotdogs. I believe hotdogs cause cancer.
Casey had perfect "Flat Top" hair
Casey frequently dyed his hair blackish purple. Both his children have followed in his footsteps on this one.
The only foods Casey wouldn't eat were beets and pumpkin
Once Cassidy was attacked by a killer chicken. Casey was mad, he stormed over to the chicken coop, grabbed the chicken, and with a kick that would have impressed Louie Sakoda, punted the chicken about 60 yards.
All Casey needed was a quarter and he could stay entertained for hours at the Fun-Of-It.
Casey's Dream Job - ESPN Sportscaster
Casey was a fighter. Really, he used to fight; like beat people up fighting, like "Oh, those scars on my hands, they're from peoples teeth" fighting.
Once Casey and his good friend Adam went to see the movie Philadelphia (Tom Hanks has Aids, gets fired from his job.) Before the movie started, they were looking around at the crowd, their conversation went something like this: "Do you think those two guys are gay?" "I bet those two over there are gay." "Wait a second, do you think they think we're gay?" They proceeded to promptly scoot over, leaving an empty seat between them.
Casey and I had moved into a new home in Orem. Casey, being his friendly self, walked over to meet our new neighbors. He introduces his self and the lady responds, "I know who you are. When we were in sixth grade, you and your friends would throw eggs at me as I walked home from school." The only response he could come up with was, "I've changed a lot since sixth grade.

Remembering Casey always makes me smile. He loved his family and friends. He touched many lives during his short time on earth. But I know he is still close by.

Happy Birthday Melanie

2008-10-26T09:08:00.000-06:00

Top 10 Reasons Melanie is my Friend:

Any friendship that starts at Girls Camp is a friendship for time and eternity.
Melanie understands that mockery is a form of LOVE.
How can you not be friends with someone who will go see an 80's band, 3 times, in 4 days, in 3 different states!?
Melanie is a loud talker. That's right Lance, some people like it.
Melanie is now closer to my age than to Cassidy's age.
Melanie always has the biggest, brightest smile. (This one's Brians)
Melanie is annoyed by the same "things" I am annoyed by.
Melanie loves Disneyland. Oh, wait, that's not one; I DO NOT love Disneyland. (We don't say hate.)
When Melanie wants to try something new, she actually does it instead of just talking about it.
Melanie understands that chatting until 3:00 am is perfectly acceptable.

Hope you have a great birthday, Mel!!

Colin's Snuba Experience

2008-10-17T16:41:00.000-06:00

Last month I went to Hawaii. While I was there my Dad and I got to

snuba. Snuba is like snorkeling, but it is also like scuba diving.

We saw some cool fish, this is a sea urchin.

I didn't want to touch it because I thought it might be poisonous.

My favorite fish was the Spotted Puffer Fish. You should try
it if you get the
chance. But don't try to go down to deep,
the cord is only 20 feet long.

Tagged

2008-10-09T21:18:00.000-06:00

Melanie, thanks for the tag!

Favorite TV Shows:

The Biggest Loser
24
How I Met Your Mother
Burn Notice
Scarred

Least Favorite TV Shows:

Family Guy
The View
Live with Regis and Kathy Lee
Oprah
Pinks

Favorite Restaurants:

Blimpies
The Pizza Factory
Cafe Rio/Bajio/Costa Vida
Ottavio's
Carl's Jr. In Spanish Fork, but only in Spanish Fork (this one's for Laurie)

Least Favorite Restaurants:

Subway (it smells like throw up)
McGrath's
Wingers
Golden Corral

Things that happened yesterday:

Had a wonderful massage
Watched Colton play baseball
Looked at cars (Colton wants the Escalade)

Things I'm looking forward to:

Jazz Basketball
Visiting Cassidy
Thanksgiving Fun
Going to the Family History Library
Colton going on a mission

Things I am not looking forward to:

Winter
Christmas Decorations
Going to the Dermatologist to check out my melanoma
Colton going on a mission

Things I love about Fall:

You can wear long sleeves/jackets/sweatshirts, but still wear shorts
Turning on the fireplace
MLB Playoffs
Halloween Fun

Things I don't love about Fall:

Shoes - too cold for sandals, too warm for boots
It gets dark too early
I don't think I can leave my house after dark

Things on my wish list:

Cassidy to live closer to her mommy
A trip to Croatia
Going with Mel to get a baby
World Peace

Things not on my wish list:

People getting in my personal space
Actually having skin cancer, instead of just joking about it
Being on The Biggest Loser

People I am tagging:

Since Cassidy is my only blogging friend and Mel tagged her, let's see ... I guess NO ONE!
OK, and Jamielyn, though she will never know she has been tagged

Blogging

2008-10-08T16:24:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago Cassidy told me she had set up a blog for her and Cameron, but she didn't really get what you did with one. On Monday Cassidy was her from St. George, while she was here we were looking at some blogs, seeing how people used them. After checking out several blogs, she says, "Oh, I get it. Blogging is like MySpace for old people."

Help, I'm on Hawaii Time!!

2008-09-29T23:40:00.000-06:00

Guess what I got from my trip to Hawaii? A Blog!!! You might think this is a great time to start a blog, with new pictures to post and memories to share, but the real reason is that at midnight your brain thinks it is 8:00. So for the next four hours you don't know what to do and somehow you end up with a blog. CRAZY! Colin (he is on Hawaii time too) thinks it's cool. Oh, and we did have a great time in Hawaii.