The Evanites Tribe

Burn Out

2009-09-03T21:42:00.000-07:00

Alright, I am going to vent just a bit so I can go about the rest of my day with you worries. As some my know, I am now going to school. This is week 4. I have reached burn out stage. I am taking the beginning classes that "teach" you all about plagiarism and how to speak to others without offending them. I have written several papers on those subjects and I am just about done with them. Yes, I know how to not offend others (for the most part). Yes, I have integrity and I will not cheat and steal from anyone. I think I "learned" it. Actually, I know I did. My parents taught me. It is basic knowledge. I can't believe some of the papers I have been reading from some of the other students. It must be a new concept for them.

Okay, I will breathe and move on. Life is good. I am glad I am in school. I just needed to vent a bit...Thanks for listening...

School Time

2009-09-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

Well as for many of you, school is back in session. Before school started Monday, we had a back to school mini cheeseburgers BBQ on Sunday. Jeremiah demonstrated the fine art of stacking a mini cheeseburger...yummy homemade rolls

After dinner we had a reverent experience with before school priesthood blessings. I feel so appreciative to my husband for his worthiness to hold the priesthood. All the kids felt so relaxed and ready for the school year because they have received a little extra protection from their father on earth and their Heavenly Father.

The next day was school and I had the hardest time letting go of Jack. He is in 6th grade!!! Two reasons it was hard to let go...Firstly, he is in 6th grade!! Secondly, I am NOT old enough to have a middle schooler.

He was so cool. I was trying not to cry and he said, "Mom, you will be okay...it's just another year of school." When did he get so mature and sensitive to emotions. He is growing into such a young man.

Zaylie was so excited to just GO! She is so cute...she will have a great year in 4th grade. I am excited for her.
Her priesthood blessing truely touched me. She has an important work here. I know she chose our family because she needed to teach her mom how to be a better daughter of God.

My little kindergartener, Elijah. Elijah is in PM kindergarten and all morning it was like the time was ticking so SLOWLY. He couldn't get in the class fast enough.

But when we got there he slowed down a little bit and peeked in the room. He saw some kids from church and gave me a kiss and ran in. We will continue to work on his speech with the school. He will have a great year.

Last, but definetly not least, my Wyatt.
Wyatt is going to stay home with me one more year. We are going to do preschool stuff together. I am getting my fingerpaint, playdoh mojo on. We will have a lot of fun. I think that I am just not ready to let my baby go.

We will wear the armor of God. All is all, this year is going to ROCK (I hope)!

We are Back!

2009-08-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

Whew hoo...I am back! After much techincal difficulties I am conquered the blogger bug! Wow, I really need to catch up...

This summer was fabulous! We had weddings, went camping, did some kayaking and did LOTS of visiting with friends and family. Here are some pictures of the tribe in action.

Jack and Uncle Andrew made a tow hitch for his bike. He went around the neighborhood and mowed people's lawns for $5.

We square foot gardened this summer and WOW what a garden it was. It was our first sucessful garden. We now have 6 different size boxes with lots of veggies, fruits and herbs. It has been so nice to have fresh, "local" produce.

This was one of our camping/motorcycling trips...loading up and planning takes the longest.

We had a Harry Potter Count Down with the Westovers. On this day we made rice crispy snakes and then decorated them with candy. The snakes were from the 2nd book, Harry Potter and the Chambers of Secrets. They kids had a great time. On the last day we all made pipe cleaner glasses and casted spells all day...it was GREAT!

Zaylie and Wyatt at Dominic and May's wedding. They look calm but as soon as the music started they were dancing machines!

Jack asked Andrea to dance at the wedding. She is the first girl he has danced with not including me or Zaylie. He danced her around the floor. Can you tell he was a little proud of himself...

Elijah and me dancing the night away. Elijah is such a little Romeo. He would even bow after each dance...what a cutie!

Here we are camping in LaPine Oregon with nothing but a port-a-potty. It's our annual trip the Reck family. Between the 2 families we had 20 people there...it was so much fun!

What more can I say. We had a great summer! Now that my blogger bug is beat I will be bloggin' hopefully more often...Hope you had a good summer too!

Spiritual High

2009-05-07T12:33:00.000-07:00

Well last week I went to Women's Conference at BYU and let me tell you I am still vibrating from the spiritual high! It was doubly great because I went with Joann...my bestest friend. It was amazing. We did service during one of the talks. We cut out school bags for children in our countries.

I think that one of my favorite talks was about "Doing your Best vs Being your Best".
The speaker reminded us that as we know, Christ is perfect, but he is perfect in eternal things such as compassion, charity, love, obedience etc... we do not know if he was perfect in multitasking, cleaning, cooking, running errands, baking etc...
unfortunately we sometimes get bogged down the latter tasks and feel that we fall short. We need to stay focused on the eternal tasks and with every day we can evaluate and with our Savior's love we will come much closer to our goals. Isn't the atonement great!

Anyways, I can't wait for next year!

P.S. for some reason I am not able to add any pictures SO I will add them as soon as I can...is anyone else having this issue?

Tax Day

2009-04-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, maybe it is just me but I get a little depressed on tax day. I think that it is because I am reminded how my money is just being wasted on stuff that is for the most part fluff. I know that when things are tight it my house we cut things like going to the movies and eating out. If I was the government I would just ask you for the money so I could take you, me and all my neighbors to the movies and dinner because it was the "right" thing to do...

Okay, I know that some good is done and I am grateful for your government I just would like to see a little more control and a little more responsibility. After all they employ my husband so I am very grateful for that. I just would like to see a little more control. Today is the tea party protests all around the country. I am proud of my parents...they are going. Find out more, Tax Day Tea Party

I guess the best thing for us to do is do put the right people in office and let our thoughts be known...

Thanks for listening to me rant a little bit...

Confessions of a Bad Blogger

2009-04-14T13:35:00.001-07:00

Sorry everyone who once checked out my blog I have neglected my bloggin duties. I have found Blogger's arch nemeses, FaceBook and I haven't been able to stop the insanity. After much shame and guilt I am now back, hopefully for good. Don't get me wrong, I can not leave the instant gratification of FaceBook but I will stay true to Blogger too.

I must confess FaceBook has been so fun. I was able to find some of my long lost dear friends. We had dinner a couple of weekends ago. What a great time! I know it sounds silly but I was a little scared to reunite but within seconds of hugging all fears were gone and the laughs and stories started just like old times minus the old high school habits. It was a great night!

New news!! Elijah lost his first tooth...Zaylie pulled it out cause we are always so squeamish about pulling teeth.

So I will do better...I will be a better blogger for you all! Thank you for forgiving me...FaceBook is just so intoxicating. Ha ha!

Proud Mamma

2009-03-25T18:13:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

You are Divine

2009-03-23T08:33:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, no matter what your faith this is inspirational to you. I am so glad that I know without a shadow of a doubt who is my Heavenly Father and where I came from and where I will return. If you what to know for yourself just ask, He will answer! Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhLlnq5yY7k

A Quote

2009-03-03T14:45:00.000-08:00

This morning we were dropping off the kids for school and Elijah said to me, "Mom, wouldn't it be great if we didn't have to grow up." Then he shook his head and said, "Man, it is just going too fast for me." I thought to myself isn't that the truth! I can't believe how fast it has gone. I feels like just yesterday I was up to my eyeballs in diapers and super sonic messes. Don't get me wrong I am so glad that is over but to quote my five year old, "man it was fast."

A Feeling of Renewal

2009-03-02T09:35:00.000-08:00

Today I have such a feeling of renewal! I just am so grateful for yesterday. I was able to feel of the spirit and enjoy experiences share by others. I remembered the bare necessities of my life and made a commitment to always remembering. I think that the thought of spring, springing is getting me excited for change and warmth. My 2 oldest kids are having their birthdays this weekend and I can't believe how much has changed since I became a mom. I am definitely better now then we I first started which, I guess is a good sign. When we first had Jack we were still in the hospital and he started crying. Jeremiah and I looked at each other and then called the nurse. She explained to us that he was ours and we needed to care for him. At that very moment I felt the change, the shift from just me to me and my child. As a mom life is totally different then I ever imagined but all for the better. I just love it. I feel totally grateful that I have been able to be a full time stay at home mom. Watching all the growing and experiencing all the hurdles along the way. What a beautiful plan that our Heavenly Father has created for us. All the pieces fall into place if we just have the faith and trust in him.

Of all the rights of women, the greatest is to be a mother
-Lin Yutang

Random Acts of Kindness

2009-02-26T12:42:00.000-08:00

Today, I am just grateful for all the love in the world. It is definitely not focus on if you only listen to the news but I am convinced that the people of the world are, for the most part good-hearted people. I have witnesses a couple of random acts of kindness and they have restored my optimism! I know that the Lord works in mysterious ways. We need to spread the word that WE are still a good people. That all is not lost. The economy and maybe( but hopefully not) the government maybe going to hell in a hand basket but that will be okay. We will endure to the end. We are a good people. WE will help each other and WE will not let each other down. With the craziness of the economy and the hopelessness that is being spread through out, I feel like what can I do? Now I know, I need to warm the hearts of my fellow men. In turn, that will help each one of us to gain a better the eternal perspective. Remembering that life is not just now but it is goes on. Wow, that sounds a bit deep, but not really. A simple smile or hello can be an act of kindness, right? So thank you for showing me all of your random acts of kindness! I am grateful for all of you!

Okay Okay I am now ...

2009-02-23T11:22:00.001-08:00

Okay Okay I am now on facebook. I know, Sarah is finally doing it. After many requests and alot of prompting I have done it. I hope you all become my friends because I might get a complex if not. Ha Ha!

2009-02-02T11:01:00.002-08:00

Well, 6 more weeks of this...what should I say... beautiful weather. I don't know about you but I am ready for the heat!! This winter has really sucked the life right out of me. I could never understand the whole "snowbird" thing until this year...I totally get it. Punxsutawney Phil says 6 more weeks well then let's pray that the rodent is wrong!

The Power of a Name

2009-01-22T07:40:00.000-08:00

In our home we have struggles. We have the struggle of....what cereal to have in the morning. The 2 older kids love Cream of Wheat and would love to have it everyday. The 2 little ones hate Cream of Wheat. They even gag when I have them taste it. So as the mom, I try to be the peacekeeper and stay neutral be let it be known I love it too! Well today I found a way to make all parties happy. Up until today we have called it, Malt o Meal (another great cereal) just because they are very closely related and it is a fun name to sing, (another story...) but this morning when asked, "is this Malt o Meal?" I said, "no, it is Cream of Wheat." Instantly the little ones said, "this is great, I love this, Mom can we have this everyday?" Success!

The power of a name and how it is perceived. In a round about way, I started to think about other things that "hid" behind their name. Some for the good and some for the not. It is just so important to keep sharp and focused and not let tricky people, (mom) fool you...lol!

As You May of Guessed...

2009-01-21T15:20:00.000-08:00

Well as you may of guessed...Jeremiah and I have joined the gym and we have started a new healthier plan for our lives. We started on 12/26/08. We both love working out, we have just decided to make it a priority again! Jeremiah has lost 10 lbs and I have lost 3 lbs. I will keep you updated!

Tag...I'm it!

2009-01-08T13:03:00.000-08:00

Okay I excepted the challenge of the RommaLamaDingDongs and posted my 4th picture in my 4th "my pictures".This was such a great day! This is my beautiful mom...really Jeremiah's mom (my mom too!) We went to downtown Pasco to the farmers market and bought firey peppers. Later that week Jeremiah and I canned those peppers. We made pepper jelly that ROCKED but we did learn the importance of wearing gloves when handling peppers. (I always thought, "no big deal...how bad could it be?") So if you are brave...take the photo tag challenge and post your 4th pic in your 4th "my pics" folder. Have fun!

Freebie!! David Bowman

2009-01-05T09:29:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share these beautiful pictures and what the artist has to say about each one of them! You can ALL win a FREE signed 8x10 print of your choice (out of the three prints), by copying and posting to your blog or website this whole post! After you post then send an e-mail to David (contact@bowman-art.com) with your website or blog address telling him you posted it and that you read about this offer on my blog. Also send him your name and mailing address and he will send your signed 8x10 print of your choice :) Hurry because...
*This offer expires Monday Jan. 5th at noon!!*

David Bowman: has had a passion for art ever since he could pick up a pencil. He loves creating images of the Savior that inspire and uplift. Along with his Christian fine art, David has also written and illustrated a series of scripture storybooks for children titled "Who's Your Hero". Check out his website at www.bowman-art.com to see more of his precious art.

Fresh

2008-12-29T09:09:00.000-08:00

Well, the snow has started to melt and the rain has replaced it. I love how the rain makes everything fresh again. I have been thinking about the new year and today when I saw the rain I thanked my Heavenly Father for the new start. Of course, I will do the goals of losing weight and learning something new this year but I will also strength my soul too. If I take small things like, reading my scriptures daily and going to the temple weekly I know that my spirit will benefit, greatly. Sometimes, I think that I get overwhelmed with the standard that I know that I need to reach. My Heavenly Father knows that I am capable and He wants me to achieve but He also knows that I am human. He knows that I need a way of starting over and being fresh. He has giving me the atonement. He has also giving me my Savior. My Savior will be my advocate. He will stand with me and give me mercy. I am so grateful for that. Just as the rain washes the earth, my Savior, Jesus Christ will help me to wash away my shortcomings and help me into exaltation. Isn't that great. It brings me such comfort. I love how each precept that I learn builds my testimony. Our restored gospel comes directly from our Heavenly Father. During this year I will do my best to achieve all I need to do but when I come up short...and I know that that will happen (at least once, ha ha) my Savior and my Heavenly Father will be there with out stretched arms helping me to stand again.

Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!

2008-12-23T10:25:00.001-08:00

Today is my Mom and Dad's 36th Wedding Anniversary. I am so thankful for their example of a happy, eternal marriage. My parents are the greatest couple. They love to hold hands. They date as much as they can. I know that in my Dad's eyes, my Mom lights up a room every time she walks in. I hope that you enjoy your day, I love you both!

Snow Cavin'...Can You Believe It

2008-12-22T09:02:00.000-08:00

Since church was canceled we got to have time together. What better way to spend time together then to make a snow cave! Jeremiah shoveled the drive and the sidewalk into our yard. Then he dug out the hole for the cave...

All done! They played in it for a while.

Wyatt loved it...I think that he is part polar bear.

It was so much fun just being together. It was definitely a treasured memory!

All is Well

2008-12-19T12:33:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to report that Elijah's surgery went great! He is home and all is well. He is in the land of popsicles and ice cream but is starting to eat some foods. The doctor thinks that his hearing should be restored to normal and he shouldn't be so sick. So cross your fingers everyone! Thank you for all your prayers.

I love the snow!

2008-12-18T10:34:00.001-08:00

It is a week before Christmas and I am not even close to being done! The snow has put a cramp in my style! Don't get me wrong I do love it...but...I have so much to do! So just as I was starting to curse it I checked my email and saw a great reminder about why the snow is not so bad...it could be WAY worse...

Check out the ice! This is in Switzerland...

Snow is nothing! I love the snow! I am not going to worry about the Christmas stuff...Santa will bring everything, Right?!!

Our Great Weekend

2008-12-16T15:45:00.000-08:00

This last weekend we were able to go and visit our dear family and friends. Our dear friends, the Reck family were sealed in the temple to their 3 newly adopted little girls. Earlier this year they(Mom, Dad, Domi and Christina) were sealed to their other 3 adopted children. They are now a totally complete eternal family. Congrats to you all!

We also got to visit with all the family and enjoy getting really hugs from them, not just phone hugs and kisses. We are truely blessed to have such great people in our lives. It does take a village to raise children (and most adults). I am so thankfully for the snowy whether...it helped us be able to stay another day!

Reflections of Christ

2008-12-10T10:27:00.000-08:00

This is why we do what we do...watch this movie and feel...Reflections of Christ.

Now the Christmas Season has Begun...

2008-12-10T10:07:00.000-08:00

The Christmas season has now officially begun. The Christmas devotional was beautiful, (as usual). If you haven't see/hear it yet take some time to be spiritually fed. It is soooo worth it! Merry Christmas to you all!

Oh The Joy...

2008-12-03T13:44:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday was a great "love being a Mom" moment. During church Elijah asked to go to the bathroom so I gave him the speak about being reverent and folding his arms then let him go. About 10 minutes later he returned with a strange look on his face I asked him what was wrong and the conversation went as follows...

{Now keep in mind, Elijah doesn't whisper, really at all and we are in a very quiet time during church}
Elijah..."Mom, me need you to wipe my bottom. Me couldn't do it very good"
Me..."Elijah, please whisper. Just sit and I will do it after sacrament."
Elijah..."Mom, me need you to do it now. I can't sit. It feels funny. I am just going to stand"
Me..."Elijah, please whisper!!
Elijah..."I think that I have poop on my bottom. Me really do!"
Me..."Okay, let's go but please whisper and fold your arms and walk reverently."

I guess I share this somewhat gross event because I am sure some of you have gone through it and are laughing. Also because Heavenly Father has taught us to be like little children. Elijah is humble and he knows when something isn't right and wants it taken care of right away. I love that about him. In my own life I can totally learn from that event. I need to not just smile and let things slide. I need to stand up when things are not right. I need to also be humble and ask for help and advice. Heavenly Father doesn't want us to do this alone. Which is great because I definitely need all the help I can get! Being a Mom is the greatest job ever...I just love it!

A Recap of Events

2008-12-02T09:22:00.000-08:00

Well I haven't posted in a while...life has been (is always) crazy. Thanksgiving was so great! Jeremiah and I leisurely woke up around 9am and started cooking the feast. It was the best! We had the music going. We would stop mixing and baking to get in a dance or two. It was so much fun. The kids just played...it was totally like a thanksgiving moment of bliss! Our friends came over around 1:30pm and we enjoyed a super feast! After dinner we laughed about silly things like sleeping habits of our spouses. Ha, Ha! Friday came and so did the Christmas decor. By the end of Saturday we had totally decked the halls. I am now on the search for the perfect gifts and for me leg warmers. I am a little obsessed right now about them I think that they will solve some of the fashion dilemmas of staying warm but still looking cute. I was looking for tall ones and I have found them so my dream/obsession will come true. Ha, Ha...silly I know. I just love the holidays. Have a very merry Christmas! Enjoy the moments...whether they are perfect or a little lacking, they are your moments to treasure.

Question?

2008-11-20T09:35:00.001-08:00

Life really boils down to 2 questions:

1. Should I get a dog?

2. Should I have children?

My sister sent me this email today...I had to share because I couldn't stop laughing!

Keep your head up!

2008-11-19T12:51:00.001-08:00

Do you ever feel like this picture? Limp and not going anywhere...never fear! Remember you are a child of God. You came from divinity! He is rooting for you every minute of every day! So shake off your limp attitude and start swinging! All is Well!

Do Something Now

2008-11-13T14:21:00.000-08:00

I am totally disturbed by the FOCA. This would eradicate state and federal laws that the majority of Americans support, such as:

Bans on Partial Birth Abortion
Requirements that women be given information about the risks of getting an abortion
Only licensed physicians can perform abortions
Parents must be informed and give consent to their minor daughter's abortion

FOCA would erase these laws and prevent states from enacting similar protective measures in the future.Please do your research and help us stop this gassly bill from passing. Check out the info on the button to the right also the youtube videos. Thank you!

The Plan

2008-11-11T18:31:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it takes a while but I think that I finally am starting to get it. I am so grateful for the patience of my Heavenly Father! I have had several conversations about blind faith lately and I have come to the conclusion of when you are in a very dark tunnel and there is no light to see which way is the right way it is smart to follow the person with the flashlight. I have done lots of things in my life both for the good and not. I can totally tell when I was following the "flashlight" and when I was doing things on my own. I know that by following the Prophets I could not go astray. Sometimes, I didn't understand exactly where or why I need to do those things but I knew that if the "flashlight" was in their hands I could not go astray. Today I had a great epiphany! All of the choices I have made have led me to this day and this situation that I am in. I love my hubby. He is wonderful. We followed the plan and what a blessing. I know that currently in the world people are confused about our Heavenly Father's plan. Our Prophets have been very clear,

"The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners."
The Family: A Proclamation to the World
The First Presidency and Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Prophets speak for our Heavenly Father so therefore this is what our Father in Heaven wants for his children. It is not discrimination. It is just the plan. We all have our agency, that is what he wanted for us. He loves us all. We need to love everyone too. We just need to remember to not get caught up in the PC thing to do or say. We know the truth and we need to live it.

Eternal Road Trip

2008-11-06T13:10:00.001-08:00

I feel just a little bit reverent about my kids today. I am so grateful for their innocent smiles and giggles. As a parents we have so much to learn from them. I have been so consumed with my "plans". I think that the Adversary is so good at diverting your best intentions. When it comes right down to it, my family is all that matters in this life. The way we treat one another, the way we teach each other and the example we set. What a simple plan! Heavenly Father is so smart. Why does the world twist it so? We have been counseled to take time and enjoy each one of our beautiful children and our spouse. I love the eternal perspective! I love the fact that the small things don't really matter. The road to Heaven is on the Eternal highway. I need to remember that when we are on this "road trip" to pack enough snack and games to entertain the kids so that they don't lose interest in the trip. A couple of morning ago, Elijah woke me up with a sweet kiss. He had a book and snuggled in to me. I asked him, "What book is that?" three times. I didn't understand why he was looking at me like that. He looked at me and said, "Mommy, I don't speak Spanish." I laughed, I thought that I was speaking clearly but I guess not! Since that morning I have been thinking about that experience. When I think that I am speaking clearly and setting a "good" example, how are my children interpreting my actions? I am so grateful for this important job of Mother. I hope you are all proud of your job title too! What a blessing. I hope that I will be able to help each one of them grow their testimonies so that they will want and understand the importance of our Eternal Road Trip.

Democracy at Work

2008-11-05T15:00:00.000-08:00

Wow...I am so glad that is over! Now we all can move on and just breathe. I am so grateful today for the opportunity we all have to live in the United States of America. What an awesome thing we witnessed yesterday. I am grateful for the peaceful change of leadership. The Beatles said it best, "Let it Be, Let it Be". God bless America.

Follow the Prophets

2008-10-31T10:42:00.000-07:00

In these times of uncertainty we can ALWAYS turn to our Prophet and Apostles for direction. I found this Ensign article, Finding Peace and I thought that I would share...

“To find peace—the peace within, the peace that passeth understanding—men must live in honesty, honoring each other, honoring obligations, working willingly, loving and cherishing loved ones, serving and considering others, with patience, with virtue, with faith and forbearance, with the assurance that life is for learning, for serving, for repenting, and improving. And God be thanked for the blessed principle of repenting and improving, which is a way that is open to us all.”
Elder Richard L. Evans

Occasionally discouragement may darken our pathway; frustration may be a constant companion. In our ears there may sound the sophistry of Satan as he whispers, “You cannot save the world; your small efforts are meaningless. You haven’t time to be concerned for others.” Trusting in the Lord, let us turn our heads from such falsehoods and make certain our feet are firmly planted in the path of service and our hearts and souls dedicated to follow the example of the Lord. In moments when the light of resolution dims and when the heart grows faint, we can take comfort from His promise: “Be not weary in well-doing. … Out of small things proceedeth that which is great. Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind.”
President Thomas S. Monson

President Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994) counseled us: “The price of peace is righteousness. Men and nations may loudly proclaim, ‘Peace, peace,’ but there shall be no peace until individuals nurture in their souls those principles of personal purity, integrity, and character which foster the development of peace. Peace cannot be imposed. It must come from the lives and hearts of men. There is no other way.”

We need to press forward and smile. We are and have been given the guidance it is our job to ponder, pray and put into practice. I am so thankful for our Prophets!

Food For Thought...

2008-10-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

A President's pension currently is $191,300.00 per year, until he is 80 years old.
Assuming the next president lives to age 80, Sen. McCain would receive ZERO pension as he would reach 80 at the end of two terms as president.
Sen. Obama would be retired for 26 years after two terms and would receive $4,973,800.00 in pension.
Therefore, it would certainly make economic sense to elect McCain in November.
How's that for non-partisan thinking?????

Our Yogurt Lover

2008-10-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

Wyatt is our yogurt lover! He was eating yogurt and was being so cute so I thought I would share...
When Wyatt eats yogurt he does the happy dance. He wiggles his hips and humms...very cute!

TODAY is the LAST DAY!

2008-10-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day to get registered in the state of Washington. I know that it is a little frustrating sometimes with the electoral college but our vote does count. Jeremiah and I haven't registered yet for Washington so we are going to the Court house today with the kids for family home evening. It will be a great way to show/teach them about the voting process. I am sure you are all ready to go but if not...they are open till 8pm tonight. Have a great family home evening!

Remembering to Smile

2008-10-17T15:48:00.000-07:00

With all we hear about the turmoil in our country isn't nice to know that we always have our families and we can always laugh with them or make fun of them!!

run towards them for a big hug...

count of them to always make you giggle...

or just be plain silly!!
I just love my silly family! Thank you for the fun day!!

Road to Recovery

2008-10-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post that we are home and Elijah is making a speedy recovery! After 3 days in the hospital with MRSA we got the okay to come home and finish his recuperation. I am so grateful for modern medicine without it our Elijah could of had a different outcome. Thank you to all who sent us dinners, blessings and your love. Thank you so much.

Grapes!

2008-09-29T12:34:00.000-07:00

We had our own "Stomp Weekend". My mom and dad came from Oregon this weekend and we went and picked grapes! Isn't she cute!

It was so much fun! We picked off only 2 vines and look at the amount...

When we got home we started making the juice...it was going to be hard but with the handy, dandy juicer contraption it was so easy. At the end of the day we had almost 2 dozen quarts of pure, all natural grape juice with no fuss, no muss! I love canning! (I guess I shouldn't say that it makes me sound super old!!)

Tag...I'm It

2008-09-29T11:26:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much Jan...I guess tag I'm it! Okay let's see what I can tell you about me!

1. I love to clean! I know crazy and maybe a little obsessive compulsive but none the less I really do love it. I love to organize and I love to clean others' home too. I almost prefer that because I can leave it in a clean condition and not have to watch it get messy again. The bottom line is that I just love cleaning!

2. I had my first two children in the hospital with all the drugs available to me and then I had the next two at home with nothing to dull the pain but my thoughts of my husband getting a vasectomy. To be honest, I absolutely loved the spiritual experience of the home birth. I would recommend it to anyone who has uncomplicated births! It was great!

3. Jeremiah and I were married 3 months after we met in the Portland, Oregon Temple. Heavenly Father brought us together and we just trusted in Him. I am so lucky because he is my best friend. I can count on him. I feel so lucky to know that we will be together forever!

4. I learned how to can/preserve food this year and am totally loving it! As you may tell from my blog.

5. I can curl my tongue...

6. I love muscle cars and vintage race cars. One of my favorite movies is "Gone in 60 seconds". That movie is full of beautiful cars (and Nicolas Cage). I would love to have any one of those cars. I love the sound and everything about them!! In high school I dated a boy for his green Mustang. It was I think a '67 and totally restored. Just cherry. He would take me to the drive in. Ah, I remember that car well!

7. I hate roller coasters. I am a big baby!

Okay, now it is my turn to play tag...I tag...Terra, Debbie, Debie, Amy, Zaylie, Terri, Jodi . I can't wait to read what you all say!

Just to Let You Know...

2008-09-17T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hello all! I just started a blog for the cub scouts in pack 180. The blog address is cubscoutingwith180.blogspot.com. I will be adding a calender of the events that we will be doing. Also you will be able to follow along with the fun we are having!!! Comments are great!

You are Smokin' Chickens!!

2008-09-17T13:01:00.000-07:00

Well this last weekend Jeremiah took his first steps on the road of outdoor BBQing! He has perfected the hot dog and the burger but he wanted to expand his menu so he with the help of his Dad smoked his first chickens. After 4 hours in the smoker and then borrowing a meat thermometer (thank you Romm Family) he did it! They were great! Good job Honey!!

Firey Food Festival...NOT so Firey

2008-09-16T12:17:00.000-07:00

We went to the firey food festival last weekend...kinda a dud but Grandmom and Grandad from Tillamook were visiting so it made it great fun! It was more like a farmer's market...we were just expecting lots of fiery food. We bought a couple of bushes of peppers...as you can see from the picture they were just loaded! On Monday Jeremiah made pepper jelly. It was hot, just the way we like it! The rest of the day our hands just burned! I guess when they say to wear the gloves they really mean it! Next year, we might go again just for the pepper bushes but it really wasn't that great of a festival! Oh well!

Pack Night

2008-09-07T14:12:00.000-07:00

Jack earned his Weblos! We are so proud of him. He also earned his handyman, craftsman, aquanaut and fitness. All the boys are cruisen' with all their awards and accomplishments! Cub Scouts are so important to him. I am totally understanding and gaining a testimony of the Scout program. Our boys need this program. John Oberman is a great example to our boys. The Scouting program teaches our boys how to set goals and it recognizes each and every accomplishment they do, which is so important. I think that if we can continue to build up our boys with positive influence they will be able to do what they need to do to serve our Heavenly Father. Good Job, Pack 180!

Look How We Labored On Labor Day

2008-09-02T13:03:00.000-07:00

With the crazy help of everyone we got 75 ears of corn canned and 2 boxes of pears done this holiday weekend! It was great we all had our little stations and everyone did a great job! Next week we are doing peaches and tomatoes. This will be a great addition to the stuff that we have done earlier this summer!

Elijah's First Day of Pre-School

2008-08-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

Elijah started pre-school today with Debbie Hughes. He was so happy to go. When we got there there was a group of boys sitting around a toy. Elijah walked up to them and said, "Hi, I'm here!" The one boy said, "Wow, are you a real person?" Elijah then said, "Oh yes, I am really, real!" After that he ran over and said, "Bye Mom, have a great day!" School went great and WE are excited about it!

School is in Session!

2008-08-28T13:41:00.001-07:00

School started yesterday which is bittersweet. Everyone was ready to go but I know that when school starts I lose a small amount of the sands of time. I can't believe that they are growing up. I never thought that it would happen. With Jack in 5th grade and Zaylie in 3rd I am freaking out!

They are making decisions and acting for themselves. I hope that I did all I could do. The kids love their teachers and I think that this year will rock! I've signed up for a couple of PTO things so I will be crazy busy again...but that is the way I like it!

Wyatt takes a "Birdie Bath"

2008-08-22T07:32:00.000-07:00

Camping in a dirty job. All the kids took a little "birdie bath" in this bucket. Most of them didn't like it much but Wyatt seems to love it. This video will crack you up. When I ask him about his ouwie I asking him about his hurt pinky toe. Earlier in the week he stepped on a hot coal while we were dutch ovening. As of today he is much better and the sore is almost completely healed. Anyways, enjoy part of our fun!

Jack with his Motorcycle

2008-08-21T18:09:00.000-07:00

Jack has become the motorcycle kid!

He has been going out with Dad every chance he gets. He has mastered the sand and is now moved on to wanting to learn how to jump! A little scary for the parents but he is a great rider so have fun Jack!

Whew! What a Summer it has Been!

2008-08-21T15:42:00.000-07:00

Our summer started before school got out. We went to the Joann and Ty Hatch's home in Clearfield Utah. It was a great trip! Their son, Jake was baptized. That was so special to be a part of. The kids thought that it was neat touch when Jake got to take some of his baptism water home with him. Jack and Zaylie wished that they would of done that. Oh well we will do that for Elijah and Wyatt. We also got to meet their newest little girl, Lily. She is such a cute addition to their family.

Our next adventure was a special house guest, our cousin, Annebelle came to stay with us.She bought such a special spirit to our home. While she was hear we also had another great guest come, Grandmom Evans. We went to Pasco's farmers market. We got some fresh veggies and some delicious strawberry bread! Carolyn is such a wealth of knowlege...I loved having her here! That was the end of June.

July started with a BANG! We went to Portland to visit the Recks and the Evans. For the 4th of July we spent it with the Recks. They hosted a block party complete with all the great food and great fireworks! We played Settlers and ate Teresa's fabulous chocolate chip cookies. On the 5th of July it was Jeremiah's Birthday so we went out to his folks. Of course the visit was so nice. Carolyn taught me how to make tamales. When we got home we made them again and they turned out great so I guess I learned something!

It was now the Hatch's turn to come and visit us so Joann and the kids drove up. We did some scrapbooking, which I hadn't done in a very long time because Joann is my scrapbooking buddy and I can't do it without her. We went to a couple parks and to the snake river. The kids swam and we had a nice picnic. Jack, Trevyn, Jake and Zaylie are great friends. They share a special bond that they can only know!

We ended July with a visit to my mom and dad's, Nanna and Grampa. The kids played in the backyard and stayed cool in the little pool. We visited the Portland Zoo too. We hadn't been there in a long time. When Jack and Zaylie were little we would go a couple times a week so being there made me realize how much they have grown up and how awesome they are! We also went to Seaside (the beach). While we were their we did the bumper cars! It ROCKED! Nanna laughed so hard and so did we! Wyatt was a little too scared...next year will be funner for him.

August started with a camping adventure with the Recks in LaPine Oregon. Teresa has been camping at this nice little lake for many years and last year she took me and kids for an awesome trip so this year we came back for more and it was MORE! Last year it was Teresa and I with 15 kids! This year it was Teresa, Jeremiah and I with only 11 kids! It is a primative camp site so we had to hull wood, get water and use the Biffy (outhouse). It was great! Elijah really took off swimming. He swam almost half way to the middle of the lake. Jeremiah canoed everyday and took everyone on rides. Jack and Jer went on a motorcycle overnighter and slept under the stars in their own tarp tent. Zaylie made a new friend named Ariel and had lots of fun hanging out with Christina and Andrea. Wyatt had so much fun riding his tricycle and playing on the beach. He even started riding Elijah's bike with the training wheels. He is a bike riding boy. In the evenings we would play Nerts (cards) and have some very fabulous desserts. When we camp we do it in style. Our cooking ROCKS! We made pizza in the dutch oven!! Camping with Teresa is a summer highlight! I can't wait for next year!!

Through out all of our travels we were holding down the fort doing cub scouts and playing with all the friends. Jack has been burning through the Weblos program. He is doing great with it. We are suppose to go to the Jack Johnson concert this weekend but we are tripped out! We just can't do another one so we just sold them. I think that we are getting old! Oh well. School is starting on the 27th and we are almost ready. Friday we are going to get the last of the school supplies. I am so grateful for all the time that we have had to visit family and friends. This summer has taught me how much I love my family and how I love to be around them as much as possible.