So I am a little annoyed. I read in the paper today about how our wonderful President Obama took his wife on a date to the Big Apple for dinner and a Broadway show. How cute. I totally think couples should have date time. It's important. It feeds a relationship and allows it to grow and stay strong. However, my problem lies in the fact that President Obama took his wife on their little date using Air Force One, in other words, my tax dollars.
Our great leader had promised his wife during the presidential campaign to take her on said date and so he was just following through. They have gone out on the town in the nation's capitol, but this was their "big date". Good for them. But why in the world would he used tax payer's money to do it? The White House had no official comment on how much the date was costing the good people of our nation. Big surprise. Maybe this is why he wants to raise taxes on the rich so he can jet off to all sorts of places with his wife. That's right, take away their money so you can live like a king. It's the same idea as if my husband used tithing money to take me out on dates. It's just not honest.
I'm sorry, but I thought Obama was president of our country, not king. See, such frivolous spending is something I would expect from royalty. They're known for it. But not our president. Silly me, I thought he'd be smarter than that, especially when the economy is weak and many people are out of work. Way to show how you really care about the working man and how distant you actually are from the American people! Good job!
So let's review a simple concept most of you already understand. Going on dates is good. Spending other people's money that is supposed to be used to help our country for said extravagant date is bad. Next time, President Obama, use your brain and leave the jet at home.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
It's Good to Be Me (this time)
Being a bishop's wife is an interesting experience. There are many times when I wish I could switch with my husband just to get out of the house and away from my little darlings. I get so desperate that I wouldn't care if I had someone confess their deepest darkest sins to me, just get me away from the kids for a few hours please! There are those times when I do get jealous of my husband's long hours away from home doing good and having spiritually building experiences. There are some tough days when the kids have pushed me to my limit and our home is anything but spiritual. Yet, it does have it's perks. My baby is probably the most popular baby in the ward and since I am busy in Primary, I have many eager people willing to hold my little chubby guy.
However, right now I am glad I am me and not my husband, the bishop. He is currently off camping with our youth for youth conference in the sweltering heat of Nevada. When I talked to my sweetie upon his arrival to camp his first words to me were "It's so hot! We're all just soaked with sweat." Rock on!
Yeah, I'd rather be left behind. First, I hate to be hot. (I know, I live in St. George.) I do not like to be sweaty and sticky. Second, I do not like to camp. My idea of camping better have running water, a fan, and a soft bed with no insects involved. Give me a hotel any day, please! Third, I am being spoiled by various friends and family who have invited me to dinner, watched the kids, and so on.
It will be interesting to see how the next two nights go. I am a weenie at heart and keep myself up to all hours of the night with fears of the boogie man when Marshall is away. No amount of pillows and blankets can make up for the absence of my husband in bed. It's just not him and so I don't feel safe. This time I got smart. Since we can't go camping with Dad, we're having our own camp-out downstairs. We borrowed a bunch of sleeping bags from Grandma and are going to sleep in the family room. Maybe being surrounded by my little ones will help me drift off to sleep. It can't be worse than how I sleep on my own! I'll probably be so tired from trying to get them to settle down that I'll just conk out, right before the baby wakes up, of course.
But it's still good to be me. I'm not jealous this time around. I miss him, but I don't envy him. Hopefully he's off building some great memories with the youth. And one more bonus to being me is that I am getting my much awaited pedicure on Saturday afternoon, for only $9. If I can survive the next two days then I can relax while my tootsies are being pampered. Maybe I'll have to sign my husband up for one when he gets back because I'm sure he'll be beat. Just another reason why it's good to be me.
However, right now I am glad I am me and not my husband, the bishop. He is currently off camping with our youth for youth conference in the sweltering heat of Nevada. When I talked to my sweetie upon his arrival to camp his first words to me were "It's so hot! We're all just soaked with sweat." Rock on!
Yeah, I'd rather be left behind. First, I hate to be hot. (I know, I live in St. George.) I do not like to be sweaty and sticky. Second, I do not like to camp. My idea of camping better have running water, a fan, and a soft bed with no insects involved. Give me a hotel any day, please! Third, I am being spoiled by various friends and family who have invited me to dinner, watched the kids, and so on.
It will be interesting to see how the next two nights go. I am a weenie at heart and keep myself up to all hours of the night with fears of the boogie man when Marshall is away. No amount of pillows and blankets can make up for the absence of my husband in bed. It's just not him and so I don't feel safe. This time I got smart. Since we can't go camping with Dad, we're having our own camp-out downstairs. We borrowed a bunch of sleeping bags from Grandma and are going to sleep in the family room. Maybe being surrounded by my little ones will help me drift off to sleep. It can't be worse than how I sleep on my own! I'll probably be so tired from trying to get them to settle down that I'll just conk out, right before the baby wakes up, of course.
But it's still good to be me. I'm not jealous this time around. I miss him, but I don't envy him. Hopefully he's off building some great memories with the youth. And one more bonus to being me is that I am getting my much awaited pedicure on Saturday afternoon, for only $9. If I can survive the next two days then I can relax while my tootsies are being pampered. Maybe I'll have to sign my husband up for one when he gets back because I'm sure he'll be beat. Just another reason why it's good to be me.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Childlike in all the wrong ways
As I told my girls to go to sleep for the hundredth time last night and they protested in horror when I told them they won't be getting dessert tomorrow, despite them being warned beforehand. I thought about how much adults "of the world" are like children, and not in the way the Savior told us to become as a little child.
My kids always can find someone to blame for their breaking of the rules. "I hit Jimmy because he stole my toy." "I threw that doll because Anna wouldn't play with me." or "I kicked you because you won't take me to the store to buy a toy!" It could go on and on. The point being is that they feel they are not responsible for their actions. It is someone else's fault that they acted out and did something wrong or unacceptable. (Now I know they are children and sometimes don't know better. That is why they have parents to teach them.) It never ceases to amaze me how they can turn the blame on to someone else. Don't we see this happening all the time in the world around us? People blame their home life, financial standing, education or lack thereof, race, gender, and whatever else you can add in there for their unacceptable behavior in life. It has to be someone else's fault. It just has to.
If someone in my family gets a new toy, jealousy arises. Birthdays are fun, but also a nightmare. The birthday child gets some new fun things, which causes his/her siblings to be green with envy. This results in anger, name calling, demands for new toys, etc. It's childlike behavior that one would expect from a kid. But in our society we see adults doing the same thing. Someone has something better than us so we must either 1)acquire said object for ourselves or 2) hate that person for having something better than us. It's just plain unfair if someone else has the cool stuff and we don't.
Sometimes I want to laugh when my kids have been warned to quit misbehaving, ignore me, and then receive their punishment. "What do you mean we can't have dessert?" followed by tears and screams that must make the neighbors wonder what exactly goes on in our home. Um, didn't I just tell them they'd lose ice cream if they didn't knock off being turkeys? So why are they surprised? I'll never get it. And I'll never understand why people are shocked when they get pregnant out of wed-lock, become alcoholics, die from smoking related cancer, have to support and raise a family, etc. when they've been taking the steps that result in said consequences. Am I the only one who knows that certain actions can bring about obvious results?
My kids also think the world revolves around them. If they want something, like a snack, drink, or toy, they want it NOW! Even my older ones still forget that they need to wait for things. Mom can't always get what they want right away because sometimes she is feeding the baby, going to the bathroom, or sitting down for the first time that day. So they need to wait and that's just life. But I know many adults who don't want to wait to have their needs gratified and they go into major debt and misery to satisfy their whims immediately. Waiting isn't fair or fun and they shouldn't have to do it!
I also teach my children how there are other people in the world and that we need to care about those individuals. Sometimes we have to sacrifice to help another. People can get their feelings hurt and so we have to make sure we say nice things to each other. My kids are very sensitive about being reprimanded for misbehavior and get upset when one of them says something rude about another. In order for us to be happy, we have to be nice to each other, we have to think about the feelings of others. The same thing applies in the grown up world. I see so many adults who think only about themselves. Relationships are all about them. No one better dare criticize them, but they have the freedom to lash out at their "loved" ones for any minor infractions. Everyone else is a thoughtless jerk, not them.
It amazes me how so many people in this world can go through life without ever "growing up". I am so grateful for the Gospel and how it teaches me and my children to rise above the natural man to become better people. If only everyone took the time to think beyond themselves and overcome their impulses what a better world we'd live in.
My kids always can find someone to blame for their breaking of the rules. "I hit Jimmy because he stole my toy." "I threw that doll because Anna wouldn't play with me." or "I kicked you because you won't take me to the store to buy a toy!" It could go on and on. The point being is that they feel they are not responsible for their actions. It is someone else's fault that they acted out and did something wrong or unacceptable. (Now I know they are children and sometimes don't know better. That is why they have parents to teach them.) It never ceases to amaze me how they can turn the blame on to someone else. Don't we see this happening all the time in the world around us? People blame their home life, financial standing, education or lack thereof, race, gender, and whatever else you can add in there for their unacceptable behavior in life. It has to be someone else's fault. It just has to.
If someone in my family gets a new toy, jealousy arises. Birthdays are fun, but also a nightmare. The birthday child gets some new fun things, which causes his/her siblings to be green with envy. This results in anger, name calling, demands for new toys, etc. It's childlike behavior that one would expect from a kid. But in our society we see adults doing the same thing. Someone has something better than us so we must either 1)acquire said object for ourselves or 2) hate that person for having something better than us. It's just plain unfair if someone else has the cool stuff and we don't.
Sometimes I want to laugh when my kids have been warned to quit misbehaving, ignore me, and then receive their punishment. "What do you mean we can't have dessert?" followed by tears and screams that must make the neighbors wonder what exactly goes on in our home. Um, didn't I just tell them they'd lose ice cream if they didn't knock off being turkeys? So why are they surprised? I'll never get it. And I'll never understand why people are shocked when they get pregnant out of wed-lock, become alcoholics, die from smoking related cancer, have to support and raise a family, etc. when they've been taking the steps that result in said consequences. Am I the only one who knows that certain actions can bring about obvious results?
My kids also think the world revolves around them. If they want something, like a snack, drink, or toy, they want it NOW! Even my older ones still forget that they need to wait for things. Mom can't always get what they want right away because sometimes she is feeding the baby, going to the bathroom, or sitting down for the first time that day. So they need to wait and that's just life. But I know many adults who don't want to wait to have their needs gratified and they go into major debt and misery to satisfy their whims immediately. Waiting isn't fair or fun and they shouldn't have to do it!
I also teach my children how there are other people in the world and that we need to care about those individuals. Sometimes we have to sacrifice to help another. People can get their feelings hurt and so we have to make sure we say nice things to each other. My kids are very sensitive about being reprimanded for misbehavior and get upset when one of them says something rude about another. In order for us to be happy, we have to be nice to each other, we have to think about the feelings of others. The same thing applies in the grown up world. I see so many adults who think only about themselves. Relationships are all about them. No one better dare criticize them, but they have the freedom to lash out at their "loved" ones for any minor infractions. Everyone else is a thoughtless jerk, not them.
It amazes me how so many people in this world can go through life without ever "growing up". I am so grateful for the Gospel and how it teaches me and my children to rise above the natural man to become better people. If only everyone took the time to think beyond themselves and overcome their impulses what a better world we'd live in.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
It's the little things
I am often humbled by the kindness of others. Yesterday was one such example.
We had a leak in our downstairs toilet (Joy!) and so called our friend who also has a handyman business. He came over and fixed it much faster and much better than we could for a small fee. While he was here Marshall was busy mowing and weeding the lawn. He noticed that our yard hadn't been edged in a long time. Yes, at one time we had a trimmer, but it met an untimely death because my husband has a real curse involving trimmers. So when this man came back with the parts to fix our toilet, he also brought his trimmer for my husband to use. The guys discovered what we really needed was an edger because the grass had grown so far over the sidewalk that it was hard to trim. He told my husband he had a broken one at home and if he could get it going he'd be back. He then fixed the toilet and went on his way.
Meanwhile we took the kids to the cemetery for our Memorial Day traditional flower laying. When we arrived home we found this kind brother edging our yard with his now fixed edger. He stayed and did the whole yard. Our walkways and everything look amazing. Our yard looks so nice now that the grass isn't growing over the sidewalks and curb.
Now to this man maybe it wasn't a huge sacrifice to spend some time working on our yard, but he didn't have to do it at all. He did it because he's a good person and wanted to help out. But it was a big deal to me. That grass has been bugging me forever. And I was touched by the kindness he showed to us. Something little that meant a lot.
We had a leak in our downstairs toilet (Joy!) and so called our friend who also has a handyman business. He came over and fixed it much faster and much better than we could for a small fee. While he was here Marshall was busy mowing and weeding the lawn. He noticed that our yard hadn't been edged in a long time. Yes, at one time we had a trimmer, but it met an untimely death because my husband has a real curse involving trimmers. So when this man came back with the parts to fix our toilet, he also brought his trimmer for my husband to use. The guys discovered what we really needed was an edger because the grass had grown so far over the sidewalk that it was hard to trim. He told my husband he had a broken one at home and if he could get it going he'd be back. He then fixed the toilet and went on his way.
Meanwhile we took the kids to the cemetery for our Memorial Day traditional flower laying. When we arrived home we found this kind brother edging our yard with his now fixed edger. He stayed and did the whole yard. Our walkways and everything look amazing. Our yard looks so nice now that the grass isn't growing over the sidewalks and curb.
Now to this man maybe it wasn't a huge sacrifice to spend some time working on our yard, but he didn't have to do it at all. He did it because he's a good person and wanted to help out. But it was a big deal to me. That grass has been bugging me forever. And I was touched by the kindness he showed to us. Something little that meant a lot.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Happy Memorial Day
When I was a child, every Memorial Day we'd go to the cemetery to lay flowers at the graves of family members. It was a neat tradition that even a little kid could pick up on the solemnity of. I remember wondering what life was like for my ancestors and who they were. Maybe that's what got my love for history growing.
We decided to keep that Memorial Day tradition alive in our home. Since we don't have any family buried in St. George, we go to the nearby cemetery and lay flowers on the graves of soldiers who seem to be unvisited by family. It's neat because we talk about how this person was a soldier, or this man was a fighter pilot, etc. Now that Anna is older she can read their names. The kids are full of questions about the people. And they enjoy taking the time to lay a flower on each grave. We also lay a rose by the statue of the soldiers.
I love being able to teach my children to respect and honor the dead, all those valiant people who fought and sacrificed so that we can be free. It gives us a moment to reflect on our blessings and the freedoms we enjoy living in this great country. Happy Memorial Day!
Friday, May 22, 2009
Almost 7!
Sunday marks Anna's 7th birthday! I cannot believe my baby will be 7 and entering second grade next year! It has been such a pleasure to be her mom.
Anna was such a sweet and chubby baby. She was perfect for being my first. We had fun learning about this whole "motherhood" thing together. I remember once taking her to a doctor check-up and my doctor giggling at her because she was so chubby. Anna loved to listen to music as a baby, especially Frank Sinatra. She has good taste!
She has grown into such a sweet, loving, and beautiful girl. Anna is always wanting to help with her baby brother. She does a great job at playing with and feeding him. She is concerned about the feelings of others and looks out for her friends. I am so proud of all the progress she has made in school. She is the perfect student. And I love how she is not afraid to do what's right and stand up for what she believes. I still remember the last time we visited my family Anna gave my dad a lecture about how drinking coffee is bad and makes Heavenly Father sad. She is very concerned about modesty and will triple check that her clothes are modest. She loves to read the scriptures and prays daily to have the Holy Ghost in our lives. She is such a good child.
I feel so blessed to have the children I do and Anna as the oldest to help set the example and teach her younger siblings. She has been a great blessing and brings me joy every day!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
"Active" Rocks
I love to exercise. I love to push myself to the limit and feel the burn. I love to work hard and see results. I can't stand not being active. Ask my husband and he will probably tell you how annoying I am when I am sick because I can't exercise. If I can't work it, then I am just plain crabby. PLus exercising is a great stress release for me. (It's no coincidence that I had Marshall move the exercise bike into our bedroom shortly after he was called as bishop.)
That is why I was so excited to find out about EA Sport's "Active" that came out on Tuesday for the Wii. I love Wii Fit, but it isn't as challenging as I had hoped. So, being the fitness spazz that I am, I bought "Active" today and gave it a whirl.
Wow! I thought I was in decent shape, but that program kicked my bootie. Granted, I set myself to do the 30 minute hard work-out. Baby, I felt the burn. From running, high knees, baseball, in-line skating, kick-ups, squats, jumps, jumping squats, and arm exercises with the resistance band, I definitely got my heart rate going. I worked up quite a sweat and burned some calories too.
I like how with this program I can exercise with my shoes on, unlike the Wii Fit. Plus I can set my work-out and intensity according to my time and desires, and the rest of taken care for me. It's catered to what you want to do. With Wii Fit you have to pick your own activities, which can kind of be annoying. But Active does it for you and pushes you harder because of it. You can monitor your calories as you go, which is great because I know how many I burned in my 30 minutes. And there is also a 30 day challenge. I am going to start that tomorrow and so will learn more about it then.
But make no question, this is the program if you want to get your bootie in shape. I was one tired and sweaty woman after my session. I can't wait to go at it again tomorrow. Totally worth the money.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Happy Birthday, Cutie!
Tuesday is a big day because it's Marshall's birthday. You all should take the time to wish him a happy birthday. (Side note: It's also the 9 year anniversary of when he proposed to me. Pretty smart to do it on his birthday. I still remember it all so well, the proposal in the park. Que romantico!) Anyhow, in honor of my sweetie, here is a list of a few things (I could write tons more) that I love about him:
- His beautiful singing voice.
- His smile. He has the happiest temperament I know.
- The way he looks in a suit.
- His humility.
- He loves the same tv shows that I do.
- His taste in music. Even though I am not a big Judy Garland fan, I cannot imagine a Marshall without Judy music.
- His old fashioned sense of romance.
- His ability to make people love and feel at ease with him.
- His knowledge of the Gospel.
- His handsome face.
- He is a righteous, sacrifice all, man of God.
- He spends hours each day serving me, the children, and our ward. It must be tiring. I bet some days he just wants to take a day off and steal some time for himself. He is always serving others and NEVER complaining about it.
- His sense of humor. I love how we can still chat in bed at night and end up in giggling fits of hysteria.
- His wit. I love to match wits and sarcasm. We can get on a roll.
- His love for and involvement with our children. He has got to be the most fun and cool dad ever.
- He'll dig whole new sprinkler lines for our yard. He doesn't like that kind of stuff, but he does it because someone has to. He steps up when things need to get done.
- His love and respect for his parents.
- He can go with me to the temple always.
- His strength. He can endure a lot and carries a great weight with all his duties, but he does it and he does it well.
- His testimony. He is always searching the scriptures, pondering, and learning. Always strengthening his testimony.
- He loves me despite my silly quirks and worries.
- He lets me work with tools, which I love, and doesn't feel his manhood is threatened.
- His great tenderness and kindness for me and others.
- His love and concern for my crazy sweet family.
- His patience with me.
- His knowledge of random facts. How does he do it? He is like a sponge!
- His blue eyes.
- His sense of daring. He has no problem getting up and making a fool out of himself as long as he is having fun and giving everyone a good laugh. I could never do that.
- His closeness to the Spirit.
- He treats me like his help meet, his equal, his partner, his queen.(even when I am a crabby butt head who is wrong!)
- The love and respect he shows me and shows our kids for me.
- He never misses a chance to teach the kids or me. I am always learning from him.
- When we were dating he told me he dreamed of taking his wife to Broadway shows because he loves the theater. He has kept that promise and I love it!
- His awesome relationship with all of his siblings. They can get together and just laugh it up!
Oh, I could go on and on and on. He's been in my life for 9 1/2 years and I have loved it. He gets cuter every year too! I am so blessed to have such an incredible husband. Happy Birthday, Marshall!
- His beautiful singing voice.
- His smile. He has the happiest temperament I know.
- The way he looks in a suit.
- His humility.
- He loves the same tv shows that I do.
- His taste in music. Even though I am not a big Judy Garland fan, I cannot imagine a Marshall without Judy music.
- His old fashioned sense of romance.
- His ability to make people love and feel at ease with him.
- His knowledge of the Gospel.
- His handsome face.
- He is a righteous, sacrifice all, man of God.
- He spends hours each day serving me, the children, and our ward. It must be tiring. I bet some days he just wants to take a day off and steal some time for himself. He is always serving others and NEVER complaining about it.
- His sense of humor. I love how we can still chat in bed at night and end up in giggling fits of hysteria.
- His wit. I love to match wits and sarcasm. We can get on a roll.
- His love for and involvement with our children. He has got to be the most fun and cool dad ever.
- He'll dig whole new sprinkler lines for our yard. He doesn't like that kind of stuff, but he does it because someone has to. He steps up when things need to get done.
- His love and respect for his parents.
- He can go with me to the temple always.
- His strength. He can endure a lot and carries a great weight with all his duties, but he does it and he does it well.
- His testimony. He is always searching the scriptures, pondering, and learning. Always strengthening his testimony.
- He loves me despite my silly quirks and worries.
- He lets me work with tools, which I love, and doesn't feel his manhood is threatened.
- His great tenderness and kindness for me and others.
- His love and concern for my crazy sweet family.
- His patience with me.
- His knowledge of random facts. How does he do it? He is like a sponge!
- His blue eyes.
- His sense of daring. He has no problem getting up and making a fool out of himself as long as he is having fun and giving everyone a good laugh. I could never do that.
- His closeness to the Spirit.
- He treats me like his help meet, his equal, his partner, his queen.(even when I am a crabby butt head who is wrong!)
- The love and respect he shows me and shows our kids for me.
- He never misses a chance to teach the kids or me. I am always learning from him.
- When we were dating he told me he dreamed of taking his wife to Broadway shows because he loves the theater. He has kept that promise and I love it!
- His awesome relationship with all of his siblings. They can get together and just laugh it up!
Oh, I could go on and on and on. He's been in my life for 9 1/2 years and I have loved it. He gets cuter every year too! I am so blessed to have such an incredible husband. Happy Birthday, Marshall!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Happy Day!
Tonight we are going on a bon-a-fied real date! No putting kids to bed! I am sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo pumped! Boo-yah!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Learning from My Older Girlfriends
There are many lessons we can learn from the elderly. The other night I went to a Relief Society activity and ate dinner at a table where I was the youngest person by at least 25 years. I had so much fun!
The ladies started off by talking about how they remember being younger and swearing they were never going to get varicose veins, liver spots, or saggy skin. Of course, it all happened regardless of their attempts to avoid it. They sat comparing their arms and how the skin sagged in various areas and how annoying it was. One sister talked about a book for older people that is called "Remember When Your Skin Used to Fit?" Hilarious. It reminded me of when I get together with younger moms and all we do is talk about our stretch marks, loose skin around the middle, and sliding chests. We're the same, we just talk about different body changes.
The topic of being a child during the WWII came up. I realized how truly spoiled we are now. I actually had to ask my husband how long we've been at war because I didn't remember. And have we felt any crunch with the war going on? No, not until the economy plummeted thanks to unrelated matters. Yet these women were talking about how they had to wear underwear made from flour sacks during the war. One talked about how during her third grade recital she kept having to hold up her underwear while doing her little dance so they wouldn't fall down. Wow! Talk about sacrifice. If I need underwear for my kids, I buy them from the store. How blessed I am to not have to make them from flour sacks. Those people talk of a kind of sacrifice we can only read about, but never have experienced. I cannot imagine the protests and rebellion that would spread across the nation if we were asked to give up things like stockings, driving, rubber, sugar, etc. for the war effort today.
I also love hanging around older women because there just isn't any pressure. There are some moms my age that are very competitive. It's all about who has the nicest clothes, house, body, car, etc. With the sweet old ladies in my ward there isn't any of that. Who cares? They are beyond that point in life where such trivial things mean so much. They care more about family, health, and living righteously. I feel like no one is judging me or watching my every move. They accept and love me for who I am. It's so refreshing!
I love being in a ward that has older sisters. I love learning from them and their life experiences. So often talking to them has helped me put things into perspective. There is life beyond poopy diapers and screaming kids! It gets better and it goes by all too fast. The elderly have a lot of treasures of knowledge to share. Don't write them off because, as mentioned in a recent General Conference talk, they have a lot to teach us and we have a lot to learn.
The ladies started off by talking about how they remember being younger and swearing they were never going to get varicose veins, liver spots, or saggy skin. Of course, it all happened regardless of their attempts to avoid it. They sat comparing their arms and how the skin sagged in various areas and how annoying it was. One sister talked about a book for older people that is called "Remember When Your Skin Used to Fit?" Hilarious. It reminded me of when I get together with younger moms and all we do is talk about our stretch marks, loose skin around the middle, and sliding chests. We're the same, we just talk about different body changes.
The topic of being a child during the WWII came up. I realized how truly spoiled we are now. I actually had to ask my husband how long we've been at war because I didn't remember. And have we felt any crunch with the war going on? No, not until the economy plummeted thanks to unrelated matters. Yet these women were talking about how they had to wear underwear made from flour sacks during the war. One talked about how during her third grade recital she kept having to hold up her underwear while doing her little dance so they wouldn't fall down. Wow! Talk about sacrifice. If I need underwear for my kids, I buy them from the store. How blessed I am to not have to make them from flour sacks. Those people talk of a kind of sacrifice we can only read about, but never have experienced. I cannot imagine the protests and rebellion that would spread across the nation if we were asked to give up things like stockings, driving, rubber, sugar, etc. for the war effort today.
I also love hanging around older women because there just isn't any pressure. There are some moms my age that are very competitive. It's all about who has the nicest clothes, house, body, car, etc. With the sweet old ladies in my ward there isn't any of that. Who cares? They are beyond that point in life where such trivial things mean so much. They care more about family, health, and living righteously. I feel like no one is judging me or watching my every move. They accept and love me for who I am. It's so refreshing!
I love being in a ward that has older sisters. I love learning from them and their life experiences. So often talking to them has helped me put things into perspective. There is life beyond poopy diapers and screaming kids! It gets better and it goes by all too fast. The elderly have a lot of treasures of knowledge to share. Don't write them off because, as mentioned in a recent General Conference talk, they have a lot to teach us and we have a lot to learn.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Overcoming a little fear
I hate asking questions or looking for help in stores. I guess I just don't want to come across as some clueless idiot (especially in a home improvement type store) or become victim to the customer service rep from Hades. Plus I hate pushy sales people and would rather just be left to my own leisure.
All of that has changed. I am getting to know the guys at Home Depot pretty well. I know I am getting old when one of my favorite stores is a home improvement one. But we've been busy doing projects and I need supplies and knowledge. Instead of steering clear from those helpful workers, I now answer their "Can I help you?" with the list of supplies I need for my latest project. I have learned about grout sealing, wood sealants, and dishwashers. It's been great. (Finding out about the dishwashers was the most fun. The man helping me had quite the dry humor. It was a blast. And yes, we are getting a new dishwasher soon since our's is on it's last leg. I am SO excited to replace it.) Everyone has been very helpful. It's not scary at all to seek assistance.
So my fear of asking for help in stores is gone. I am all about learning. It makes my life easier and my trip to the store faster. I can't wait until I start my little "handy woman" course. Then I'll be practically living at Home Depot with all the projects I come up with! (And believe me, I do have a list)
All of that has changed. I am getting to know the guys at Home Depot pretty well. I know I am getting old when one of my favorite stores is a home improvement one. But we've been busy doing projects and I need supplies and knowledge. Instead of steering clear from those helpful workers, I now answer their "Can I help you?" with the list of supplies I need for my latest project. I have learned about grout sealing, wood sealants, and dishwashers. It's been great. (Finding out about the dishwashers was the most fun. The man helping me had quite the dry humor. It was a blast. And yes, we are getting a new dishwasher soon since our's is on it's last leg. I am SO excited to replace it.) Everyone has been very helpful. It's not scary at all to seek assistance.
So my fear of asking for help in stores is gone. I am all about learning. It makes my life easier and my trip to the store faster. I can't wait until I start my little "handy woman" course. Then I'll be practically living at Home Depot with all the projects I come up with! (And believe me, I do have a list)
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
I have a confession to make. (No, despite it's popularity I do not want a boob job. These babies are staying 100% natural. Though I wouldn't mind paying someone to return them to their original location.) I never thought I'd say it, but I want a pedicure. The horror! (Actually, I could see myself getting addicted to spa treatments and the such. It all sounds sooo nice and relaxing.)
I've noticed this spring that living in St. George for three years has taken it's toll on my cute little tootsies. My heels are cracking and my toes are dry. (Just another reason to love the summers here!) What to do?
While getting my hair cut on Saturday I heard two stylists talking about pedicures. Silly me, I thought it was just getting your toe nails painted. Oh no! You get a foot massage and sugar scrub. Some places even cheat and razor off the dry skin on your feet. Sounds delicious to my aching dry dogs.
So now I admit it, I want a pedicure. I'm just afraid that I'll like it too much and want one every week.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Just because . . .
Here is a picture of my cute baby. His cuteness is what saves him when he decides sleep is for weenies. And it keeps his mom sane when she is sleep deprived. (oh wait, that's been the past four months.) I love my sweet Jacob and have to post pictures of him so you don't forget how adorable he is. Don't you just want to pinch those cheeks?
A Lesson from "The Office"
Birthdays don't mean much as you get older. Well, they do mean you are one year older, but they don't have the magic they did when you were a kid. That's why I look forward to every birthday card and well wishing I get. I think it's smart of companies to do something to celebrate the birthdays of their employees. I know times are tight, but still a few bucks on a birthday card or cake goes a long way.
There is an episode of "The Office" where Jim ends up being in charge while Michael heads out into the wilderness to be his own "Survivor Man". Jim decides instead of taking the time and money to celebrate every one's birthday individually, they are going to do one big party for everyone. He thinks it's brilliant and no one really has the nerve to tell him it's a bad idea. However, people still demand that they better have their special birthday treat at the party or else. So they end up having a big birthday party with all sorts of cakes and pies that various people requested, which pretty much accomplishes nothing.
The reason Jim's plan failed is simple. Everyone likes their moment in the spotlight. You take away birthdays and you make a lot of people in the office crabby. Celebrating that special day lets employees know that they are important and are valued by the company. It doesn't have to be huge, a card or cake will suffice. It's just not smart business to treat your employees like they are invisible.
And besides, when it's all said and done, the older you get the more reasons you need to make a birthday special.
There is an episode of "The Office" where Jim ends up being in charge while Michael heads out into the wilderness to be his own "Survivor Man". Jim decides instead of taking the time and money to celebrate every one's birthday individually, they are going to do one big party for everyone. He thinks it's brilliant and no one really has the nerve to tell him it's a bad idea. However, people still demand that they better have their special birthday treat at the party or else. So they end up having a big birthday party with all sorts of cakes and pies that various people requested, which pretty much accomplishes nothing.
The reason Jim's plan failed is simple. Everyone likes their moment in the spotlight. You take away birthdays and you make a lot of people in the office crabby. Celebrating that special day lets employees know that they are important and are valued by the company. It doesn't have to be huge, a card or cake will suffice. It's just not smart business to treat your employees like they are invisible.
And besides, when it's all said and done, the older you get the more reasons you need to make a birthday special.
Monday Ramblings
- Who cares about potty training?! We should be teaching our kids to do chores instead. They have way more energy than we do so why not put it to good use? My four month old woke up for the day at 5:30 and is protesting a nap two hours later. Just think of all that he could accomplish in that time. If he keeps this up I am starting him on spring cleaning.
- Speaking of naps, if someone shut me in a cool dark room with a fan going, you would not hear a peep out of me. No complaints. You wouldn't see me for hours, maybe even days.
- As I was weeding last week I thought about Eve and the apple. I hate weeds. Living in the Garden of Eden, a place where everything beautiful and nice grew on it's own, would have been nice. It better have been one of those caramel dipped white chocolate swirled apples with nuts on top that she was offered.
- Why isn't working off the food as fun as eating it? It would be so much more enjoyable to be able to taste the food again as you worked the calories for it off.
- Why is it always the fat women who wear the tube tops? I was almost blinded the other day at the park by women attired as such. Sweetie, I know it's hot outside, but I don't want to see your rolls and cracks. I'm hot too, but I have the common sense to wear clothes.
- It's almost comical how when I sit down to read my scriptures the phone rings, someone comes to the door, or a child is suddenly in dire need. What is up with that?
- If Craig's List was a drug I would be a hardcore junkie that failed rehab every time. I love checking it multiple times a day for good deals. I'm an addict.
- Babies are smart, smarter than we think. They know if they are all cute and giggly they won't be in serious trouble for getting up early or skipping a nap. Still . . .
- Why don't I have a maid?
- Speaking of naps, if someone shut me in a cool dark room with a fan going, you would not hear a peep out of me. No complaints. You wouldn't see me for hours, maybe even days.
- As I was weeding last week I thought about Eve and the apple. I hate weeds. Living in the Garden of Eden, a place where everything beautiful and nice grew on it's own, would have been nice. It better have been one of those caramel dipped white chocolate swirled apples with nuts on top that she was offered.
- Why isn't working off the food as fun as eating it? It would be so much more enjoyable to be able to taste the food again as you worked the calories for it off.
- Why is it always the fat women who wear the tube tops? I was almost blinded the other day at the park by women attired as such. Sweetie, I know it's hot outside, but I don't want to see your rolls and cracks. I'm hot too, but I have the common sense to wear clothes.
- It's almost comical how when I sit down to read my scriptures the phone rings, someone comes to the door, or a child is suddenly in dire need. What is up with that?
- If Craig's List was a drug I would be a hardcore junkie that failed rehab every time. I love checking it multiple times a day for good deals. I'm an addict.
- Babies are smart, smarter than we think. They know if they are all cute and giggly they won't be in serious trouble for getting up early or skipping a nap. Still . . .
- Why don't I have a maid?
Friday, May 8, 2009
My Mom
With Mother's Day fast approaching, I've had some time to think about my own mom. I feel so blessed to have the mom that I do. She is one brave, strong, loving, and kind woman that has taught me so much throughout my thirty years of life.
The greatest gift my mom ever gave me is that of freedom. Freedom from a life I can only imagine from stories she's told me. My mom came from a long line of alcoholism and abuse. At times her father would drink away their money, causing them to subsist on cat food because real groceries were unaffordable. Her mom was emotionally abusive and her dad was more physical. But they came from families where that was the norm. And yet, somehow, my mom overcame that all and raised us so that we never knew what she had. If my mom never did anything else for me, that one gift would be enough because it has freed me from the pain and heartbreak she knew and allowed me to improve one step better by raising my children in the gospel.
My mom also taught me that nothing is impossible. If you have the determination and enough knowledge to do what you want, or at least fake it through, then you can do anything. Sometimes the results aren't perfect, but you can at least say you tried. Even though she remarried twice, both of her husbands were hands-off. That meant it was my mom who was up the ladder at Christmas time in the snow putting up the lights on the house or my mom was the one fixing little things around the home. I think I can do anything thanks to her, which sometimes has proved to be interesting. (Just ask Marshall about his last haircut where I took apart the clippers to clean out some hair halfway through cutting his hair and then took another 20 minutes to get them back together correctly. But I got it right and his hair all cut!)
Holidays are something to celebrate! My mom always had decorations out for ever holiday. For St. Paddy's and Valentine's Day she would dye mashed potatoes and applesauce green or red for dinner, along with making green or red Jell-o and cookies. There is nothing wrong with enjoying the fun of holidays. And I keep that tradition alive in my home. Most of my decorations have been handed down from her vast collection of holiday decor.
Don't ever be afraid to do something kind for someone. My mom did and still does go out of her way to be kind to people. She has no problem chatting with a store clerk about life, taking a meal to a friend in need, or sending someone a card just because. Pick up the phone or stop by to visit someone you are worried about. That's how she is. I know I got that from her. I love to bake bread for people who've had a bad day or are sick. Or bring flowers. Little acts of kindness are the best and they feel so good to do!
My mom knows how to throw a good party. We'd have BBQs, picnics, and birthday parties at our house. To this day she is still in charge of the "Phelp's Cousins Reunion". She goes all out for any event. I remember when my oldest sister got married my mom painted the dressing room in our house to match the wedding colors. We'd always joke that when someone came to visit mom would remodel the house each time. Her motto was put everything you've got into parties and have fun!
If it doesn't kill you, it'll make you stronger. Life has bumps and that is just how it goes. In her life my mom has been through a lot. She's had her good moments and her bad moments, but she's always pulled through. And she has kept her humor with her. If you can laugh about something, then you've got it made. She is a great example to me of perseverance.
I love my mom. She is one incredible lady. I could go on and on with all that she has given me, like a love for cooking, a passion for creating, and the ability to dream, but time and space does not allow it. Hopefully this helps you to see how amazing my mom is and why I love her so much. Like I said, I am blessed to have her as my mom.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Stupid Parent
Here's a great parenting moment for you that makes you wonder why it seems to be easier for stupid people to reproduce.
As I was walking through a parking lot to a store, I passed by a father and son heading to their car. Another vehicle was pulling out in their path. The son said "Dad, we need to stop and wait." The father, idiot supreme, said "No, we can keep going. He will stop." His young son was hesitant, but followed suit of his dad. The vehicle backing out, a big SUV, saw them as they came into sight of the side mirrors and had to slam on his brakes so as to avoid hitting them. I was appalled to say the least.
What I should have done was yelled at the stupid dad, but I didn't. Who doesn't know that you should stop when a vehicle is backing up? You never assume that the driver is going to do anything because you don't know what they are thinking! And here we have a man teaching his son the direct opposite of all this, going against all the rules of safety. Hopefully this poor kid will keep sticking to his gut instinct to stop and not follow the horrible example of his father. No wonder the world is full of so many reckless idiots.
As I was walking through a parking lot to a store, I passed by a father and son heading to their car. Another vehicle was pulling out in their path. The son said "Dad, we need to stop and wait." The father, idiot supreme, said "No, we can keep going. He will stop." His young son was hesitant, but followed suit of his dad. The vehicle backing out, a big SUV, saw them as they came into sight of the side mirrors and had to slam on his brakes so as to avoid hitting them. I was appalled to say the least.
What I should have done was yelled at the stupid dad, but I didn't. Who doesn't know that you should stop when a vehicle is backing up? You never assume that the driver is going to do anything because you don't know what they are thinking! And here we have a man teaching his son the direct opposite of all this, going against all the rules of safety. Hopefully this poor kid will keep sticking to his gut instinct to stop and not follow the horrible example of his father. No wonder the world is full of so many reckless idiots.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
You don't deserve it just because
As I was mopping my floor last night I heard a commercial from a local rent/ rent-to-own place. The woman on the ad talked about how even though the economy is bad, you don't have to suffer. Why not stop in and get that furniture or tv you need and deserve! No one wants to live in a plain empty house. Right...
I agree, no one wants to live in a boring house. Mine is decorated and I love it! Goodness, I decorate my blog depending on my mood because I can't have it plain looking. I understand that line of thinking.
However, I do not agree with the thought that "you deserve _________", insert whatever material object your little heart desires. First off people, the economy is bad thanks to a few morons who couldn't live with-in their means. They felt they were entitled to whatever they wanted, regardless of it's affordability. Um, that created a lot of problems for a lot of people and has had long lasting effects. Have we learned anything from this? Obviously not. We still think we are entitled to things we cannot afford or are worthy of.
Second, since when is anyone entitled to a big flat screen tv or brand new leather couch? At what point in your life does that magic delivery man come to you and say "Bob, you've worked 25 years as a butcher and now are entitled to a tv with a screen as big as your kitchen." or "Jane, you've mothered six kids and so here is your new family room furniture." or "Sam, you had crappy parents, here's a new surround sound system on us!" That just doesn't happen. You see, working is just part of life. Yes, it sucks, but it's true. If you want to eat, have a roof over your head, etc. then you need an income. And dealing with life's hardships doesn't make you exempt from it. Most honest people work and get this thing called a paycheck. Said honest and, hopefully wise, people save money from those paychecks for expenses they may have. And here's the crazy thing, if our working honest person wants to buy something (gasp) they save up for it! Ah! Can you believe it?! What a novel idea! Working and saving money for something rather than just demanding it based on some false selfish ideal. Wow! Mind blowing!
Apparently the concept really is foreign when it comes to society as a whole. Just because you live, breathe, and take up space on this earth does not mean you are entitled to have all your whims satisfied. (Unless you are a baby, but most babies aren't the ones out there buying things they cannot afford. Thank goodness they aren't out buying anything. Jacob would buy ceiling fans to install over every inch of the house so he could look at them and giggle.) I work hard and I save to buy the things I need and want. My children understand this concept and yet for some reason it is too hard for many adults to get. Despite what the radio ads may say from "Bruce's" you aren't entitled to anything unless you work for it. So get a clue, stop whining, and get off your bum and go to work. If only people would listen . . .
I agree, no one wants to live in a boring house. Mine is decorated and I love it! Goodness, I decorate my blog depending on my mood because I can't have it plain looking. I understand that line of thinking.
However, I do not agree with the thought that "you deserve _________", insert whatever material object your little heart desires. First off people, the economy is bad thanks to a few morons who couldn't live with-in their means. They felt they were entitled to whatever they wanted, regardless of it's affordability. Um, that created a lot of problems for a lot of people and has had long lasting effects. Have we learned anything from this? Obviously not. We still think we are entitled to things we cannot afford or are worthy of.
Second, since when is anyone entitled to a big flat screen tv or brand new leather couch? At what point in your life does that magic delivery man come to you and say "Bob, you've worked 25 years as a butcher and now are entitled to a tv with a screen as big as your kitchen." or "Jane, you've mothered six kids and so here is your new family room furniture." or "Sam, you had crappy parents, here's a new surround sound system on us!" That just doesn't happen. You see, working is just part of life. Yes, it sucks, but it's true. If you want to eat, have a roof over your head, etc. then you need an income. And dealing with life's hardships doesn't make you exempt from it. Most honest people work and get this thing called a paycheck. Said honest and, hopefully wise, people save money from those paychecks for expenses they may have. And here's the crazy thing, if our working honest person wants to buy something (gasp) they save up for it! Ah! Can you believe it?! What a novel idea! Working and saving money for something rather than just demanding it based on some false selfish ideal. Wow! Mind blowing!
Apparently the concept really is foreign when it comes to society as a whole. Just because you live, breathe, and take up space on this earth does not mean you are entitled to have all your whims satisfied. (Unless you are a baby, but most babies aren't the ones out there buying things they cannot afford. Thank goodness they aren't out buying anything. Jacob would buy ceiling fans to install over every inch of the house so he could look at them and giggle.) I work hard and I save to buy the things I need and want. My children understand this concept and yet for some reason it is too hard for many adults to get. Despite what the radio ads may say from "Bruce's" you aren't entitled to anything unless you work for it. So get a clue, stop whining, and get off your bum and go to work. If only people would listen . . .
Monday, May 4, 2009
Why Men Need the Priesthood
I've heard numerous times the complaint that it's unfair and sexist that women do not have the priesthood in the LDS church. Why can't females be given that divine power? Why does all that "glory" reside with the men? It just doesn't make sense, so I've heard. Foolish people! I feel completely the opposite. It makes perfect sense. In fact, men need to have the priesthood in order to have that spiritual connection with and power from God that women naturally come by. It would be unfair otherwise.
We recently had Stake Conference and as a result I was inspired by some of the talks to make some changes in our prayers as a family and a couple. The results have been amazing and very beneficial. It got me thinking about our home and how 99.9% of the time it is I who receives revelation concerning our children and the way we run our home. Why is that? Well, it makes perfect sense. I am the one who is at home and around the kids more than my husband. I am more aware of my children and their needs. As my father-in-law put it, Marshall may preside in the home as the priesthood holder, but I am the commander. And it's true.
But let's take it a step further. The whole purpose of our Heavenly Father's plan is centered on family. And who in the marriage gets to deal directly with the family? The mom. I am the one who is daily working with our children, serving them from the first day they are created, teaching, and caring for them. Now changing a diaper isn't spiritual or fun in any sense, but many of the other opportunities and experiences I have throughout the day are. And it all is service. For the most part I am at home, in a spiritual environment and learning ground, surrounded by innocent people. Not to mention the whole process of being pregnant and giving birth. It is impossible to not be humbled and overwhelmed with the feeling of life moving inside of you, to know that you are directly involved in creation. Or the power and awe that comes from bringing that life into the world. Yes, it hurts and is messy, but it is truly an incredible experience to take part of, putting your trust in the Lord and physically bringing that baby into the world. Words cannot describe it. On a whole we as women have the opportunity to have numerous spiritual experiences with the divine.
On the contrary, our husbands have life a little bit harder. Although Marshall does his role by providing for our family, his work with the family is more indirect. He gets to go out and face the harsh world and it's inhabitants on a daily basis. No sweet little toddler kisses, baby smiles, or homemade cards for him. He misses out on all those tender moments during the day. Pregnancy and birth are completely different for him. He gets to watch his wife be sick, uncomfortable, and then in lots of pain. He cannot experience those feelings of life inside of him or the triumph of birth. And even when the baby comes, the baby prefers mom because he knows her voice and knows she will care for him. Dad is an afterthought until a few months later.
Since men miss out on all these direct experiences with and serving of the family, and all the spiritual and learning experiences that come with them, they need the priesthood. They need to have some way to distance themselves from the world and reconnect with the divine. They need to have the ability to serve, and to serve in a way only they can render. It seems only fair that my husband has something as equally glorious that is all his own that he brings to our family. What better way to sacrifice and serve than through the priesthood power? To seal families forever, to baptize, heal the sick, bless the sacrament, or stand as a judge in Israel. Mother are and should be anxiously engaged in a good cause that keeps them close to the Lord. Men have the opportunity to do the same with the priesthood.
I've never been jealous that my husband has a power I don't. (And after seeing me go through four pregnancies and deliveries, I don't think he's jealous of my power either!) I am glad he has a way to connect with the Lord and to serve others. Together, as a mother and a righteous priesthood holder, we bring a spiritual powerhouse to our family that protects us from the dangers of the world and brings us closer to the divine.
We recently had Stake Conference and as a result I was inspired by some of the talks to make some changes in our prayers as a family and a couple. The results have been amazing and very beneficial. It got me thinking about our home and how 99.9% of the time it is I who receives revelation concerning our children and the way we run our home. Why is that? Well, it makes perfect sense. I am the one who is at home and around the kids more than my husband. I am more aware of my children and their needs. As my father-in-law put it, Marshall may preside in the home as the priesthood holder, but I am the commander. And it's true.
But let's take it a step further. The whole purpose of our Heavenly Father's plan is centered on family. And who in the marriage gets to deal directly with the family? The mom. I am the one who is daily working with our children, serving them from the first day they are created, teaching, and caring for them. Now changing a diaper isn't spiritual or fun in any sense, but many of the other opportunities and experiences I have throughout the day are. And it all is service. For the most part I am at home, in a spiritual environment and learning ground, surrounded by innocent people. Not to mention the whole process of being pregnant and giving birth. It is impossible to not be humbled and overwhelmed with the feeling of life moving inside of you, to know that you are directly involved in creation. Or the power and awe that comes from bringing that life into the world. Yes, it hurts and is messy, but it is truly an incredible experience to take part of, putting your trust in the Lord and physically bringing that baby into the world. Words cannot describe it. On a whole we as women have the opportunity to have numerous spiritual experiences with the divine.
On the contrary, our husbands have life a little bit harder. Although Marshall does his role by providing for our family, his work with the family is more indirect. He gets to go out and face the harsh world and it's inhabitants on a daily basis. No sweet little toddler kisses, baby smiles, or homemade cards for him. He misses out on all those tender moments during the day. Pregnancy and birth are completely different for him. He gets to watch his wife be sick, uncomfortable, and then in lots of pain. He cannot experience those feelings of life inside of him or the triumph of birth. And even when the baby comes, the baby prefers mom because he knows her voice and knows she will care for him. Dad is an afterthought until a few months later.
Since men miss out on all these direct experiences with and serving of the family, and all the spiritual and learning experiences that come with them, they need the priesthood. They need to have some way to distance themselves from the world and reconnect with the divine. They need to have the ability to serve, and to serve in a way only they can render. It seems only fair that my husband has something as equally glorious that is all his own that he brings to our family. What better way to sacrifice and serve than through the priesthood power? To seal families forever, to baptize, heal the sick, bless the sacrament, or stand as a judge in Israel. Mother are and should be anxiously engaged in a good cause that keeps them close to the Lord. Men have the opportunity to do the same with the priesthood.
I've never been jealous that my husband has a power I don't. (And after seeing me go through four pregnancies and deliveries, I don't think he's jealous of my power either!) I am glad he has a way to connect with the Lord and to serve others. Together, as a mother and a righteous priesthood holder, we bring a spiritual powerhouse to our family that protects us from the dangers of the world and brings us closer to the divine.
The Quest for Super Powers
After Jimmy finished up his eggs and pancakes at breakfast this morning, he came to me to get his sticky hands wiped off. We had the following conversation:
Jimmy: What does sticky mean?(Great question, right? How do you describe sticky without using sticky in the description or big words that a three year-old can't understand?)
Me: Um, that your skin sticks to things.
Jimmy: Like walls?
Me: (chuckling because I know where this is leading) No.
Jimmy: How can you stick to walls like Spiderman?
Me: You need to get super spider powers.
Rachel: Or you can get big suction cups to climb walls!
Poor Jimmy. He so wants to have super hero powers. (I did too as a kid. I remember watching "Wonder Woman" with Linda Carter on tv and then going behind our shed outback to spin my heart out with the hopes that I would burst into Wonder Woman. Never happened.) I am not about to tell him Spiderman got his powers by being bit by a radio-active spider. That would either: 1. make him more scared of spiders for fear he'd get bit and starting shooting webs or 2. make him chase spiders around in the hopes of getting bit. That wouldn't end up well. Thanks a lot Stan Lee! Instead, we'll have to keep thinking of new ways to get super powers. Though pancake syrup covered hands is pretty creative!
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Where's Jacob?!
Today Jacob played "Where's Jacob?" for the first time. It was a hoot and so adorable. Enjoy!
Friday, May 1, 2009
Fun with Fire
Last night we burned the tree Marshall chopped down a month or so ago. The kids were so excited to have a bonfire. I asked Marshall if he knew how to keep things under control and he told me not to worry because he's a pyromaniac at heart and so knows about fire. And he did a wonderful job with it all. The kids were very good and safe with the fire too. After we burned down most of the major branches we roasted marshmallows and made s'mores. Yum! Jacob enjoyed watching the show from a distance. Everyone had a sticky, smoky,good time!
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