Another Chapter in my Book

I have mentioned this before, but I have been told several times that I should write a book. Well, today would add another unbelievable chapter to this book!

Aaron's choir pianist quit on him just over a month ago (he is choir director.) So, he has been playing the piano and I have been directing. We thought after last weeks Choir Christmas Sacrament meeting, we would be off the hook for a while. Well, we were informed last week that our Ward Conference is next week and the choir needs to preform. So, we put something together this week and had the choir meet for 30 minutes after church to practice.

My mom and dad took Maggie and Justin home after Sacrament meeting. (Justin has a raging fever). So, we have Nate and Kennie through choir practice. Not a problem - right? WRONG! Imagine this:

Aaron is playing the piano and I am leading. Kennie runs up to the front of the Chapel where we were at and tries to get my attention. I finally hear him and look over. He covers his mouth so others can't hear what he is saying and says - "Nate took his pants off and is running around." What? Seriously? So, I tell him to go tell Nate to get his pants and bring them to me so I can put them back on. He comes back, "Nate took his shoes off." To which I replied - "Where are his pants?" Kennie replies - "An older man helped him put them back on." Okay, relief.

So, I later find out that the "older man" was one of the members of the Stake Presidency. Seriously, my 3 year old was running around with his pants and shoes off in front of a member of the Stake Presidency. Humiliation! Plus, this "older man" waited until we got done to tell me that we have a charming son. SERIOUSLY?!?!?!

Enjoy a good laugh at my expense. I was mortified!!

{Merry & Bright!}

Merry Christmas! May your days be Merry & Bright!!

Love,
The Lewis Family

48 Hours

This happened in 48 hours. Of course, when Aaron was working almost all of those hours! Stupid snow. Nothing else to say.

Class Project

Last night was our 3rd class. We learned clowns and decorative designs. I knew the boys would love the clowns. However, I only had pink frosting. They were a little mad to have pink clowns, but the did enjoy!!

Even though it was pink icing, they enjoyed every bite!

18 months

Lots of posts today, make sure you scroll down to see them all!

Maggie turned 18 months on the 4th, sorry this is late, but things have been crazy and I have had 3 sick kids (I am sick too).

Here are 18 things about Maggie at 18 months!

1. Her smile just melts my heart! The way she cocks her head to the side and looks at you with those innocent eyes just kill me!

2. She is SO adored by her 3 brothers.

3. She loves to give hugs! The boys get kinda sick of her hugging. (Again?)

4. She is obsessed with her baby's. She folds them in a blanket and "rockabye"s them!

5. She LOVES the color pink. She will wear pink every day of the week if I let her.

6. Is obsessed with shoes. She carries them around the house, brings everyone their shoes, and points out the shoes in every store we go into! It starts early, I guess.

7. Loves Mac n cheese.

8. Loves to "help" mom cook!

9. Likes to sing and does a great Twinkle Twinkle Little Star!

10. Knows what her hana and mimi are (Japanese for Nose and Ears and also knows english). She can also point out her belly, bottom, toes, fingers, chin, hair, eyes, mouth, cheeks.

11. Has a mullet

12. Loves to dance to any kind of music we have on. She also enjoys playing the piano!

13. Still enjoys pushing Nate's buttons. So funny to watch during the day!

14. Is talking up a storm. I can't list all the words, but one of my favorite is still Costco!

15. Loves her Grandpas! She "talks" to them on the phone all day long! When she sees both on the computer, she gets so excited!

16. Loves to draw on the Magna Doodle. (She is right handed even with the treadmill accident!)

17. LOVES LOVES LOVES her daddy. She will walk around the house all day saying, "Daeee, R U?" So cute. When he walks in the door, most of the time she will hear him and start running.

18. Is so cute when running toward me with her arms out just to hug me! Melts my heart!!

She is truly a gift. She is sure loved around this house! She has come a long way this year. We have been through a lot with her and I am grateful that she is happy and healthy!!

Toy Room

Lots of posts today, keep scrolling.

This is the toy room. To see the layout of the house, go here. It has a wierd beam in the middle of the room. So, it's hard to take pictures. We painted it yellow and I love it! It makes the room so bright and cheery! The moments are rare that it's clean enough to snap a picture, but got it!

Standing by the closet in the corner. To the top right of the picture is the hallway to the stairs. There is a washer and dryer in there.

Standing by the blue chair in the corner. (see what I mean about the beam?)

Standing in the hallway

Standing in the hallway

Hallway to the bathroom, 4th bedroom and storage closet.

Kitchen

Lots of posts today, keep scrolling down.

Here is our kitchen. If you want to see the layout of the house, go here. There is so much cabinet space here. I have ALL my kitchen stuff put away and still have room to spare. This is a first in our marraige!! All pictures were taken from the informal dining room. We also use the informal dining room as an office. Our computer is in the corner. That's why the printer is on the counter.

Living Room

Lots of posts today, so keep scrolling down!

Here is our Living Room. To see a layout of our house, go here. The Living Room is on the main floor. My favorite part about this floor is that there is no TV. The kids don't like it, but I LOVE it!

View from the hallway to the right.

The rest of the right side (and stairs going up)

Standing in the hall way straight on. (peek into dining room)

To the left of the dining room.

This is the first time we have painted. I am really pleased with the way it turned out. This is my favorite room to just sit in. The couches are new and I LOVE THEM!

New Hobby

I decided I needed to force myself to get out of the house, so I registered for a cake decorating class. This is the product of my first decorating night! You can tell it is my first time with this frosting, so there are a couple of thin spots, but overall, it's not too bad!

Another Family Photo

This was taken at our Ward Christmas Party. Thought you might enjoy it!

C E L E B R A T E

If you didn't notice above you, I went below my target weight this morning!! I have lost 30 pounds in about 16 weeks! The last few have been hard for me to get off. I pushed through it and it finally happened! I am so excited! Just thought I would share!

Dreaming....

This was taken on New Years Day 2005. Just dreaming!

Sneak Peak

We got our family pictures taken last night for our New Year's cards! (notice not Christmas! Shipping to/from Alaska is ridiculous!!)

Anyway, I am not going to revel our family picture until the cards are mailed, but I thought I would give you a sneak peak! Some of the pictures show how difficult it really is to get 4 kids to smile! Luckily, our friend was able to capture some great candid shots!! Enjoy!

Who you are!

Lately, I have been loving Hilary Weeks CD's. I came across this song in her book she wrote for Time Out for Women. I happened to have the CD, so I listened to it. It wasn't until last night when I was listening to it on my way to my class when I REALLY listened to the words. It was exactly what I need to hear!

Who You Are
-Hilary Weeks

I know you wonder if you'll ever have a day
When the kids stay calm, the laundry's done and the dishes are put away
And sometimes you feel like your days are spent and gone
And the question running through your mind is "What have I gotten done?
And when you finally have a moment to slow down
At the end of your day
I know Father would say

Believe in what you're doing
Believe in who you are
Hold tight to the truth that you're a daughter of God
Believe in who you're becoming
Believe in who you are

It may seem simple - all the little things you do
But the lives you touch matter so much and there's no one else like you
And Father needs you to stand tall and be faithful
Be all that you can be
Oh, if you could see what he sees

You'd believe in what you're doing
You'd believe in who you are
So hold tight to the truth that you're a daughter of God
Believe in who you're becoming
Believe in who you are

When it's hard to believe in yourself
And you feel like you're beginning to doubt
Remember

He believes in what you're doing
He believes in who you are
Don't lose sight of the truth that you're a daughter of God
He believes in who you're becoming
He believes in who you are

What struck me last night is the order of the song. At first, it's as if a friend is telling you. Next, if you could look through Heavenly Father's eyes, You are telling you. Believe in yourself. Then, He is telling you that He believes in you. If we can remember this, then the day to day stuff doesn't seem so bad. When the laundry and dishes pile up, when the kids are driving you crazy, believe in what you are doing and believe in who you are.

Anyway, just thought I would share!

Black Thursday

So, Black Friday this year really started on Thursday. I left home about 9 pm and went to wait in line at Toys R Us. What we decided last minute to get Nate was 1/2 off and I was getting one for my nephew too. So, I went. Had a blast joking with the people around me. My friend, Nichole, joined me at 10:30.

Stood in line at Toys R Us for 2 hours and 45 minutes (could not feel my toes by midnight!). While waiting to get inside, saw a mean guy trying to but in line get thrown under a truck. That was the funniest moment of the night. A whole line of people cheering to see a guy almost get hit by this truck. Seriously, barley missed him! Got what we needed!

1:30 - drive through at Burger King. Headed to Old Navy. Thankfully, the Old Navy we went to was inside a mall, so we got to line up outside. They opened at 3 am. Didn't expect it, but totally scored a Lego Rockband for the Wii for free! Got what I needed at Old Navy (and did my $65 return). Said goodbye to Nichole and headed to Target.

3:45 - Headed to Target. (Nichole headed to Walmart). Waited outside of Target at 4:15. Again, laughed with the people around me. Some people really are so funny. Went inside at 5. Checked out at 6:00 and headed home.

6:30 crawled in my bed and got kicked in the face by Nate until he got out of my bed at 8:30. Woke up by Aaron at 10:30 because someone was on their way over.

Got a babysitter and Aaron and I headed to Costco. Came home and realized I had forgotten something at Target, so I headed back.

Seems crazy, right? Actually, I saved myself more than $450. I had a lot of fun though. I look forward to maybe adding a few friends to my group next year (although Nichole and I had a BLAST!)

Did you go out? What was your biggest score? Have a fun story about a guy getting thrown under a bus?? Let's hear it!

ROFL

The highlight of my Thanksgiving Day was playing Balderdash with a gal in our ward that is from Japan. Can't speak or understand very good English. SO SO SO funny!

We hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving.

Happy Shopping!

Totally loving 30!!!

I am 30! I didn't dread 30 as much as a lot of other people I have talked to. For some weird reason, it is okay to have 4 kids if your 30, so now I am ok! J Anyway, here is a list of 30 random things about me. Some you may already know and some you may not!

1. I started out wanting 6 kids. That only changed after I had Maggie. There is no way I can handle any more!
   
2. I am an NFL fanatic. I love Sundays because of Football. Church is awful (at least for the time being, with the kids so young) but I get to watch football! (GO COLTS!!!)
   
3. I don't do the dishes every night before I go to bed.
   
4. I prefer ham for Thanksgiving!
   
5. I CANNOT stand Pie at any time of year (Comes with a birthday around Thanksgiving!)
   
6. Is loving living close to a Costco!!
   
7. When I was 10, I beat up my babysitter. She locked me in my room and I snuck out my window and "ran away."
   
8. I can turbo clean if listening to Metallica, Tori Amos or Sarah McGlochlin.
   
9. I have enrolled in a cake decorating class for December!
   
10. I really don't like the brown/pink combo (and I am not in the closed either – Dana!)
    
11. The one thing in life is to make people happy. My kids, my husband, my friends and even strangers!
    
12. I was almost bald until I was 2! When I turned 3, I had Shirley Temple ringlets down to my waste.
    
13. I lost my Wedding ring somewhere in Idaho while visiting my grandparents.
    
14. When I was 4, I sang "I am a Child of God" in front of all the guests at my grandparents 25^th Wedding anniversary!
    
15. I have soft spot for Justin and love it when he comes to cuddle with me!
    
16. I want to take a photography class. (Not that I don't have enough to do!)
    
17. I need a new cell phone. Don't quite know where mine is right now. Only 1 month until I can switch to AT & T
    
18. Took 1^st place in regional's (Debate Tournament) every year of High School!
    
19. Lettered in Debate my sophomore year of High School!
    
20. Saw the light and switched from Mountain Dew to Diet Cherry Coke!!
    
21. Love me a Blue Cheese Bacon Burger from Red Robin!
    
22. I am a sucker for a good deal!
    
23. I am currently stuck on 2 CD's – Full Circle (Creed) and a Hilary Weeks CD.
    
24. When I was born, I had 8 sets of grandparents.
    
25. I am the youngest person (as of 1998) to be diagnosed with Graves Disease.
    
26. During Christmas time, my favorite CD to listen to is Connie Lou's Christmas (Forgotten Carrols.)
    
27. I don't have any memories under the age of 8. My brother died when I was 7 ½ and I guess the way I dealt with it was to block it out.
    
28. I have been engaged (kinda) 3 times. Once in high school (3 years) and I was waiting for a missionary when I met Aaron and then Aaron.
    
29. Since I have been married, I have lived in Utah, D.C., Ohio and Alaska!
    
30. I love to be surrounded by the people I love. So, since you are here and read my list, leave me a message and show me some love!!
    

I got the best birthday present ever. All 4 kids slept through the night. Kennie gave me a note (see below) telling me how much he loves me and I didn't have to have a pap smear at my doctors appointment this morning! It is a great day!!!

Note from Kennie:

Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you Happy birthday to Mommy Happy birthday to you.

Dear Mom,

Happy Birthday! I love you with all my heart. your the best mom in the whole wide world. Love Ken, Jus, Nat, Mag and Dad.

Lessons from Alaska

Since I only know 1 person that has lived in Alaska that reads my blog, I thought I would share with you some lessons I have learned from living in Alaska. I am an expert now, you know. We have lived here almost 4 months! (Note the sarcasm please!)

1. Don't rent a house. Buy a house or live out of a hotel. Everyone we talk to has been jipped by their landlords. It is not a nice feeling.
   
2. Don't leave anything in your car! Especially wet wipes. It is not nice to go out to get a package of wipes only to find them harder than a rock. What do you expect with 8 degree weather?
   
3. Snow tires are not a necessity! Seriously! These people know how to handle snow. It is a miracle! All of the places we have lived have gotten snow. However, this is the first time people know how to deal with it! Tractors are snow plows!! Seriously. Fabulous!
   
4. It is always colder than it feels. For example, on Tuesday, I went out to warm up my car and it didn't feel that cold to me. Came back in, put coats on Maggie & Nate and grabbed a LIGHT jacket for me. Got in my car and my thermometer read -10. Yep. That is NEGATIVE 10 degrees. Wow!
   
5. If you order furniture to be delivered, expect 3 times as many people as needed to come. They like to come to the base about lunch time, so they schedule all the base delivery's around noon and then they go to the BX cafeteria to get lunch. I have seen this happen on 3 different occasions. This morning, my new fridge was delivered and there were 4 people here to deliver it. Only 1 did anything. The fridge is on wheels. When I told them to enjoy their lunch, they all looked at me like a deer in the headlights. So funny! Just made my day!
   
6. All of the Native Alaskans want lower 48 food and all the military want "Alaskan" food. I have asked several times where good mom and pop places are. We want us some true Alaskan food. Nobody can give me any. But, they can tell me where both Applebee's, Chili's, Red Robin and all the Chains are. There are rumors that they are putting in a Olive Garden (there isn't one here yet) over by Target & Kohl's and folks here are counting down the days!! (FYI, old Alaskan people, they are building a movie theater over by Kohl's right now).
   
7. It is true, everything costs more. However, the only area that I have noticed a huge difference is in the price of gas. We are paying $3.30 right now. We are usually about $1.00 higher than my parents in Utah. Quite funny huh? Alaska is a huge gas supplier, but we pay so much more. Why? There are only 2 refineries here so they charge quite a bit more than in the lower 48 where there is more access.
   

Watch for more posts. This is just a small list!

My buttons are a poppin'

No, it's not what you think. Quite the opposite on that actually. I am so close to meeting my first huge milestone. 28 pounds lost. Just under 2 to go. I am so excited!!

Today, I attended another Rising Star Assembly at the school. This time Kennie was honored for his academic excellence and his friendly personality. Here are some pictures of that!

Cake with mom afterward -

Getting his certificate from Mrs. Mullings

He was so intent on reading it without anyone knowing, he just held it close and refused to turn it around.

Back in his seat posing for mom!

You might remember Justin being the rising star last month. If not, go here

After we got home, I was looking in the boys folders and found that Kennie has been chosen for the ignite program. This is the first time they have chosen a 2nd grader to participate in the program. It is designed for 3rd grade and above. I called and spoke with the teacher over the Ignite program and she was shocked to find out Kennie is only 6. After much discussion, she still thinks it's best if we start Kennie in the program. He is not being challanged enough in his regular class. Next year, they are trying to put together a 3/4 split and if they do, Kennie will be in this class. She mentioned that from here on out, she suggests Kennie be in a split. He is just to smart for his own good.

And, to top it off, she said he is VERY socially aware of what is going on around him. Most of the time when she sees kids this smart, they are socially "lacking," but not Kennie. She is amazed. Of course, I could have told them that at the beginning of the year, which I did. Everyone blew me off.

Off my soap box - Anyway, we are so excited for you Kennie! We love you and are so pleased with all you are accomplishing!

Hugs!
Mom & Dad

P.S. Thanks Stacie for watching Nate & listening for Maggie so I could go by my lone!! :)

{Eleven}

Eleven things I am thankful for at 11 on the 11^th day of the 11^th month!

1. Night shift is almost over! 1 more to go!

2. When I walked downstairs this morning, my sweet husband said, "Wow. You look good." Huh? I am still in my pj's and I just got out of bed. A minute later, (still staring at me) he again said, "Really, you look really good!" (2.5 pounds to go!)

3. We live so close to a temple! Can't wait to go!

4. My Thanksgiving invitations are finished. Now for the rest of my projects!

5. My mother-in-law taught me to quilt! Seriously, she is such a talented lady!

6. School! I have time to get the madness somewhat contained from 9 – 4 everyday

7. My parents are coming in 37 days. Bring on potty training!

8. We live near a Costco! Will be going tomorrow!

9. Date night on Friday! J

10. We have a reason to Celebrate tomorrow! (Happy Birthday Aaron)

11. I am almost 30!! Hooray!

I really did type this at 11. Just got pulled away. (Thanks for the idea Brandy! Very cute!)

Vital Signs

In her book, Peculiar In A Good Way, Mary Ellen Edmunds talks about vital signs. As a nurse, she would check the vital signs of the patients. They would give her an indication of how that patient was doing. In the medical world, they call it “TPR”: Temperature, pulse, and rate of respiration. “If there were patients who were lacking any of these vital signs, or if the numbers were too high or too low, there was trouble. For example, if there were no pulse…you get the idea. Vital signs are called that because they really are VITAL.” (Page 76)

She then talks about spiritual vital signs. The beginning of a new year is an excellent time to asses your vitals signs, but before you can do this, you need to know what they are. A few she suggested are prayer, scriptures, temple attendance, time and influence with her family, being grateful, keeping covenants and other promises, keeping the Sabbath day holy, and seeking the constant influence of the Holy Ghost.

Now I know we are still a little more than a month and a half until we are in January, but this is a VERY good time to figure out what your vital signs are. When you figure them out, pick one or two that you want to do better with. Set a goal to work on them the month of January. You could then add another one or two. That way, you aren’t trying to be perfect, a goal which we all know is unattainable! Baby steps people.

The snow is falling (at least it is here) and the weather is turning colder. Curl up on the couch with your journal or notebook and do some soul searching. You are the only one that can control your vital signs. You need to make the first step.

I know one thing I want to do more is attend the temple more. I am very excited to live closer to a temple. I even think Aaron and I might try to do it Friday night since we have a babysitter. Anyway, just thought I would share some of my reflection of late. Aaron’s pager just went off, so he is probably headed out and I will probably head up to bed.

{Health and Happiness to you}

Heaven Help us all!

The books have been purchased! The practice calendars will be made tonight, the lesson book will be made tonight and they are stoked!

Mom and dad - not so much! We are starting the boys piano lessons today. Heaven help us!! I don't know that I have the patience to fight them, but I guess only time will tell. Please pray that I will survive this!!!

Oh boy! I told them, once they start, they can't stop until 6th grade. I have a feeling then next 4-6 years are going to be TORTURE!!!

All Hallows Eve

Otherwise known as Halloween! This year it was quite interesting. We did 3 activities. It is against the rules to put out pumpkins - the Moose will eat them - so, we didn't carve pumpkins. I really don't like doing it anyway. Aaron did buy 2 pumpkins on Halloween, when we went for haircuts!

The festivities started off Friday at the Hospital for a Costume Walk. At least, that's what I thought. I wasn't aware that there would be trick or treating. So, we didn't bring any bags. Thankfully, the pharmacy saved us and gave us the brown paper lunch sacks to collect candy. I didn't think Maggie would need one, so I only got 3. Boy was I wrong. She walked up to every bowl, said "treat" and then picked what she wanted out of the bowl. Everyone thought she was so cute, so they would stuff candy in her hat. (She was a witch.) We had to leave early for an appointment, which meant we only trick or treated for 30 minutes. Most kids went for 2 hours. They took you through the whole hospital. In 30 minutes, we filled all 3 lunch sacks TO THE TOP!!!

Saturday, we went to a party at one of the play places on base. The place was packed, but the kids wanted to stay anyway. We trick-or-treated in this tiny space. Once again, I wasn't aware that there would be candy. I thought it was going to be a carnival. So, we brought 1 pumpkin for prizes. Well, between the 4 kids (and only 6 candy stations) we filled the pumpkin to the top. We collected 9 full-size candy bars. I couldn't believe it! We came home, Maggie grabbed a nap, I went to the quilt store and then we went to our wards Trunk or Treat.

Enjoy the slide show of the evening. Next year, we will only be doing the Hospital Event. Maybe we will go out to dinner during trick-or-treat time!

How far will you go for a good deal?

Okay, confession time!

I can't believe I'm writing this, but you will find this quite comical! Today, the quilting store was doing a Halloween sale. If you come in wearing a costume, you get 31% off! Yep, 31%. I couldn't believe it. So, I found the one and only costume that I have. Mind you- I have never worn it, but I have it. So, I put on my EVE costume, got a good laugh from my husband and off I went. Yes, you read right, I went the the quilting store as EVE. I will not EVER post pictures, so it's up to you to imagine how drop dead sexy I looked dressed up as Eve. Wearing a taupe colored body suit with leaves in 3 very appropriate places!

Anyway, you bet I got my 31% discount. It felt great checking out knowing that I saved myself $31. Was it worth it, don't ask, but I did get $31 off my purchase! Instead of spending $100, I only spent $69. Since I was getting a discount, and I found an adorable pattern for a skirt (for me) I bought the pattern and the fabric to make a TOTALLY Sassy skirt. And, I made the quilt shop workers day!

So, here is your question. How far will you go for a good deal? I want to hear stories!! Come on, you know you have one. I just told the world I dressed up as Eve. You can't top that, can you?

Happy Halloween All!
Sassy

P.S. I am up to 7 friends in Alaska. Can you believe it? I miss my friends so much!! {hugs}

20 pounds down, 10 to go!

Here is a quick update. I have 9.7 pounds to go. Very exciting!

Meet Burnette

There is a new member of our household. Her name is Burnette (It's a girl because we are in need of more of those around this house!) We obtained her when Aaron's parents came to visit. She is taking more of my time than I anticipated. Here is a picture....


I decided Maggie's quilt wasn't the first project I should do, so I picked out an apron pattern and materiel. Here is the finished product.

If you want to see what the pattern looks like, go here.
P.S. She is a Bernina. Burnette is just one of their lines. FYI

It's officially official

We found out late last night. It's official!

Captain Aaron David Lewis, M.D.
Internal Medicine Board Certified

GO BABE!!! I love you!

Jiame Martinez

Jiame Joseph Martinez 1965 ~ 2009

Jiame Martinez born March 1, 1965, our beloved husband, son, father and grandfather, returned home with all the angels Oct. 13, 2009 due to complications from surgery.He enjoyed fishging, playing sports and wrestling with Roman and Vinny Boy and going to Ute games with his best friend, Randy. Even though his physical heart was sick, his heart was full of kindess for others. He was always willing to help and always went beyond what was expected. Survived by his wife, Val; children, Chantel (Wes) and Vincente; grandson, Roman Jaymz; his mother Vicki Romero; brother, Frank Martinez, Jr. two sisters, Tammy and Loriann Martinez. Preceded in death by his father, Frank Martinez, Sr.; grandfather, Donald Romero; his father-in-law, Amarante Sandoval and aunt Gloria Malacara. Funeral services Tuesday, 1:30 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church, 4501 W. 5215 South, Kearns. Dad, we love you to the sky.


Because Jiame was born with a congenital heart defect. Because of this, he did not qualify for life insurance. If there is any way you could donate to help this family in their time of need, it would be much appreciated. Make checks payable to Martinez Family Fund.

Mail to BNA Consulting
635 South State Street
SLC, UT 84111

Anything you could send would be helpful for this family. His wife
isn't able to work because their son is handicapped. My heart
brakes for this family!

Our rising Star

Yesterday, we had the priviladge to go to the Rising Star Assembly at Justin's school. He was nominated along with 3 others from his class as a Rising Star. He was recognized for knowing all 52 letters of the alphabet (Upper and lowercase.) We are very proud of him and all that he is doing. They had a reception after where all of us got to eat cake with all the other families. Go Justin!!

Colorful Cupcakes

A gal posted these on our cooking blog and I had to try them. They turned out FABULOUS! The kids loved them too!


Colorful Cupcakes

1 white cake mix
2 eggs
1 C sour cream
1/2 C milk
1/3 C vegetable oil


Combine all ingredients until incorporated (about 30 seconds). Scrape sides of bowl and then beat on med-high speed for 3 minutes. Divide batter according to how many colors you are using. I used 5 colors and it worked out to a little over 1 cup for each color. Use food coloring to color batter to desired intensity. I used a 1/4 t and they were very bright! You could easily make pastel rainbows using a little less.

To get a layered stripe like I used, you'll want to put a spoonful of each color in the cupcake one at a time. The batter is thick, so it won't spread on it's own. A great tip is to set out a little bowl of water where you're working. Dip your finger in the water and then gently spread the batter out. The water will make it so the batter doesn't stick to your fingers. Another tip is to use a measuring spoon and some water to measure out how many teaspoons/tablespoons are going to fit in your cupcake. Then divide that by how many colors you have so you know how much of each color to use for each cupcake. For my 5 colors, it worked out perfectly with 2 t of each color in each cupcake. So I put in 2 t of blue in the bottom of each cupcake and spread it out with my finger. Then I put in 2 t of green on top of that, then yellow, etc.

Bake them according to the package directions, until a toothpick comes out dry. Top with frosting.

Bitterness & Despair

I received a call from my parents a few hours ago and was told that a family friend of ours was taken off life support this afternoon. He is still alive, but hanging by a thread. My heart is breaking. More for my dad. Trying to find the words tonight to comfort the pain I could hear in his voice, but not being able to get past the pain in his voice.

Jiame was my dad's right hand man at work. He spent more hours with him at work than he did at home. Not a day went by that we didn't hear his name mentioned in some way or another. We have all grown to love him and his quirks. (Even if he did cheer for the Denver Broncos.)

I find myself sitting at my computer pleading with my Heavenly Father to keep him on this early. Let him spend a little more time with his kids and grandkids. I don't think he is even 50 yet. I will be nicer to my kids. I will read my scriptures more. But at the same time knowing that it isn't going to make one bit of difference. I am so far away and can't do one thing to help my family. Just this morning my mom and I were talking about ways we could raise money for him to get on the transplant list ASAP and now he is as good as gone. How does this happen? Sometimes, life is so unfair.

If only I could find a way to help my dad. I am at a loss, and I think that hurts the most. Maybe my brother can be the one to teach him the discussions on the other side, who knows.

So, this week, in honor of Jiame, I will be voting and cheering (dad - please don't kill me) for the Denver Broncos. But probably only this week. A girl can only give so much. Maybe Heavenly Father will let him stay longer if I vote for the Broncos indefinitely. What do you think?

Go Broncos! Win one for Jiame!

Small Update

Kennie – He is doing well in school but is daily upset by the "fun" homework Justin has and his homework is so boring. He complains daily about being the oldest, but usually just accepts that he can't change it. He likes to pretend he is the boss.

Justin – Thoroughly enjoys school. He is excited about his homework and doing very well with his handwriting skills. He is enjoying reading and is very close to reading chapter books. His favorite part of school is being able to check out a library book and read it home for us to read together. He has brought home books about Snakes, Whales and this week brought home one about an elephant and his 11^th birthday party. He started his allergy shots today and isn't very thrilled about it.

Nate – Well, it's Nate. What more can I say about Nate? He is as destructive as ever and doesn't seem to want to take a break from that. He does his best to keep up with the other boys. He even likes to "read" during their reading time after school. He will occasionally tell me he needs to go potty, but I haven't pushed it at all. I am not ready for that fight. Once he is potty trained, I am thinking about doing a home-school preschool group with a couple other gals in the ward. There would be 3-4 kids so I would only have to teach about one week a month. Totally do-able.

Maggie – Oh boy! She sure is cute!! But, she is in to as many things as Nate is. Always wanting to do what he does. She is talking like crazy. Her favorite words right now are: Costco (love this one), airplane, Mama, Daee, Nennie (Kennie), up, down, stuck and all done. She has learned the signs for help, please, more, all done and thank you. Having a girl is so foreign to me! I tell ya, it's crazy!

Aaron – he is alive! He just finished a week of nights and is trying to recover. Work is very demanding on his time and what he has left is spent on his demanding crazy wife! (Did I just say that out loud? This is Sassy – byw!)

Sassy – Well, I am alive. I have lost 16.5 pounds and have 13.5 left to go. I am so psyched. It has been a tough road, and I have earned every pound, but it feels so good. Once it is all over, I will bask in my glory and MAYBE have a Mountain Dew. That's a big Maybe!!

We are looking forward to the visit of Aaron's parents next week. We are trying to figure out some fun things to do in Alaska in October. We've heard that March and October are the worst months to visit Alaska. Hmmm….what to do? Any suggestions? Oh, and I am going to give myself props for the excellent photograph at the top of this post. Do you know how difficult it is to get all 4 kids to smile at the same time? I DID IT!!! I believe this maybe the first time EVER!! Anyway, off to figure out dinner! Ciao from Alaska!

Kennie's Homework

Kennie A. Lewis

After school I do my homework.
I read and do my spelling
packet. Then I play outside
with my friends. It is super fun.
Next I watch tv. It is my
favorite thing to do in the
whole wide world. When I start
watching tv I stare at it
for a long, long time. After
watching tv we eat dinner. I love
eating. Then we play for a while.
We play for twenty
minits. Next it is time for
bed. Yay! First I get my
pajamas on. Then I brush my
teeth. Next I say family
prayr. last I get in bed and
go to sleep. What do you
do after school?

Strength in Numbers

One of my friends posted this blog on her blog. You may have read this, and if you did, I am sure you were moved. If you have not, word of warning, grab a box of tissues and make sure you have an hour. I did it during nap time. Start at the beginning. When you make it to the end, go hug your children and tell them how much you love them.

A thought after reading - if you look at the heaven bound post, there is more than 600 comments. As I was reading through a few of them, I was so proud. There were no harsh words, there were no accusations. There was only love and concern for a man and his young daughter. More than 600 people (most of them don't know this family) bound together to strengthen and lift a man with a broken heart. His story touched all of them and probably changed most of their lives, to a small extent, but here they are, trying to lift him. Help him in his hour of need.

These are the kind of people I want to be surrounded by. I don't care your religion, I don't care your race or background. Supporting one another and lifting each other is what the Lord had in mind for us. It is so nice to see this still exists. In a world so full of anger, hate, destruction, greed, desire and malice, there are still people who love and care. I will bet you that those people leaving comments were not all Baptist or Lutheran. But, in the midst of the comments, there is not one mention of "which religion" we are. It is just people, having faith in Jesus Christ see another one of his sheep hurting. Not lost, just hurt and trying with everything they know to help him. Amazing. What a great lesson this is. There is strength in numbers, and if we combine forces, we can make a positive influence in this world.

I am off to hug my kids a little tighter. My prayers are with this family and any of my friends and family who may be struggling!!

The Angels heard

So, at this point, I am at my computer in tears!! If you haven't already, scroll down to see the cute picture of Maggie and her daddy! I just couldn't not post. I have been praying for friends in Alaska. I am an outgoing person by nature and have not changed during our 2 months here in Alaska. However, I am finding it more difficult to make friends here. Within hours of us arriving here, we met the Holmes. They were our neighbors. Then our housing situation fell apart and we found ourselves miles (7.3 to be exact) away from them. That is a long cry compared to across the street. You know how sometimes you just click with people. Like you've known them forever. That is how I felt around the Holmes family. Their 4 kids are awesome and 2 of them are pretty close in age to 2 of mine. Anyway, I have really struggled here on base with friends and depression. But, I got the most unexpected and exciting phone call from Stacie today. They offered them a house on base 2 HOUSES AWAY from mine. Seriously? I tried so hard to not get my hopes up but this was almost impossible! I just got an e-mail from her saying they accepted the house. They should be moved in by November 1^st.

The prayer was said, the angels heard and at this moment I feel an incredible amount of love from my Heavenly Father. He knows us individually and knows our needs. He provided what I needed. Thank you seems so silly, but there isn't much more I can say. Thank you!!

Stacie – I am at your beck and call. You tell me what you need and it is done!!

A girl and her daddy….

I am not sure weather I had this growing up or not, because all I can remember of my dad when I was younger was he was at work. (Sorry Dad, I know you had to do and I love you for it!!) But it has been really fun watching the relationship between Aaron and Maggie grow. She his her daddy wrapped around her tiny little finger. For example, a few nights ago, Maggie had a really bad diaper rash. (She get's these all the time….) Aaron couldn't stand to hear her cry, so he took her upstairs and gave her a "luke warm" bath to wash away the stuff on her bum. When she cries (even a whimper) he jumps up. He has never heard our kids during the night, but he sure hears her. So funny. She knows it too. All she has to say is Daey….and he responds. He doesn't do that for the rest of us. I guess we are just sloppy seconds.

Aaron and Maggie – September 24^th

To my dad:

I am very grateful for my you. When I was ready to walk away from the church for a boy, I respected you enough to really get my answer that the church wasn't true so I could walk away. Let's just say that 7 days later I was broken up with that boy and moved out of state. I fully expected my answer to be the church wasn't true and him and I could ride off into the sunset (on the bus because he didn't have a car….what was I thinking?) I hope you know dad how much I love you. 12 years later, I am married to a wonderful man, have 4 wonderful (most of the time) children, have lived in 3 states and have made more friends than I could have ever imagined. Your powerful example and testimony based on action is what made me realize all that I could have. As much as you missed, I wouldn't trade a minute of it. The example you set is the one that I needed. All that I have is because of you!

XXOXO,

Your Daughter aka "Sassy Pants"

Serious Help Please...

I am begging you, please help me! Nate is about at the end of his rope with Aaron and I. Look at this:

• He broke the Wii. We are hoping Aaron can fix this with minimal cost. We will see. (In all of his spare time!)
• He pulled the DVD player, cable box and all cables out of the Entertainment cabinet. (Did I mention that he had to undo a child lock on the Entertainment cabinet to get to these and the Wii?)
• He spread Balmex ALL over my new couches, in his hair and in Maggie's hair 2 minutes before we needed to leave. (I was upstairs for 2 minutes to change my clothes!)
• He was put in time out 2 times at "school" today for yelling at the teacher. (He has been going for a few hours a day for PCS care. It's free until your 20 hours runs out.)
• He got in my scrapbook room yesterday and colored ALL over my current layout.
  
• He got in my scrapbook room today and dumped all (I'm talking more than 1000) buttons on the floor. Guess what I'll be doing tonight?
• He broke the fridge child lock so he could get in the fridge and get a crush cup.
• Add this to crashing our hard drive (in Ohio) breaking 2 digital cameras and breaking our DVD/VCR combo. Just to name a few.

We really don't know what else to do with him. We have tried time out, we have tried sitting on his bed, we have tried everything we can think of. I was sure that he just wasn't getting enough one on one attention, but I know that's not the problem now. I have been giving him quite a bit undivided attention lately. He is just getting worse. Please, if you have ANY ideas, let us know. We would forever be in your debt!

Poor Justin

We had yet another doctors appointment for Justin today. It seems like that's all we do lately is doctors. Anyway, this one was with the allergist. We did a focused allergy panel to find out specifics on what he is allergic to. We knew grass, weeds, trees, cats, dogs, dust mites and peanuts, but we wanted specifics in each area. We are going to be starting him on allergy shots soon to see if we can improve his quality of life. Here are the pictures of my little mans back!!


Then, after all of this, I made him get the flu shot. What a mean mom I am! Hey, they just got them in this morning and there was no line...yet. When we left, the waiting line for the flu shot was at least 45 minutes!!! Now, I just have to get Kennie back for his and we are all taken care of. That is until they get the Swine Flu shot!

Flatline...

I have been wondering why life has so many ups and downs. I am sick and tired of the highs and lows. It feels like my highs and lows have been extreme lately. 2 posts ago, I was pretty high. Feeling pretty good about life. Then, all of a sudden, the carpet got pulled out from under me and I hit face first on the floor.

I recently read a statement (in the book The Continuous Atonement) that I try to keep in mind during these difficult times. During one of his venting moments, he also mentioned he doesn't like the ups and downs. His wife works as a nurse and reminded him that the ups and downs remind us that we are alive. A straight line means your heart isn't beating any more. You don't want a straight line.

Does that make me feel better? Sometimes. It still doesn't help out during the lows. I am not sure how to change my life here. In Ohio, I was surrounded by people that I loved and was constantly going. Here, people are more reserved and keep to themselves. I have made 2 really good friends (one friendship traveled clear from medical school and Virginia!) but neither friend lives very close. Aaron has been working 13-15 hour days which makes the lows even worse.

So, hopefully done venting now. Just waiting for my next high. In some ways, I feel like a drug addict. Just waiting for my next high. That sounds awful, doesn't it? I am hoping that a good dose of football will help out. Only, because we are so far behind everyone, all the football starts and happens while we are in church! Stupid time difference!!!

Assignment Catch Up

It's been a rough week, so I am doing all 5 assignments in 1 post. Sorry!

Week 2 - Assignment #1 - Discuss a job you would do for free.

Ever since I can remember, I have had a love of math! Numbers facinate me. In high school, my math level was so high that my only option for science was the honors. Let's just say that I am the ONLY person on the planet that does well at math and not at science. I didn't get it. Anyway, I loved my math classes. 2 of the 3 years of high school, I took 2 math classes. 1 required and 1 as an optional class. I have always wanted to be a high school math teacher. If Aaron made enough money, I would do it for free (after all 4 kids were in school of course!!) I have tutored a few people in my short time away from Utah and have loved every minute of it. I have a way of changing the words so those who don't understand the way it's written, somehow understand when I teach them.

Week 2 - Assignment #2 - Write a postcard to your Grandma from someplace in Europe that you want to visit someday.

Grandma-

Sure do miss you. I wish you could have come with me to Scotland. I am in heaven here! One of my favorite places was Glasgow. I loved all the castles. I am sure glad I didn't have to clean any though!! Papa would love all the Salmon filled streams, dad would love the golf courses and my mom would be in heaven with the bagpipes! Josh would probably make fun of the men in kilts, but I think it's awesome. The kids favorite part was riding the double-decker tour bus. The best moment is when we were sitting in the 13th Century cathedral. It was amazingly calm in there. It was nice to be able to feel of the spirit there. We miss you terribly!! Next time, you are coming! Got it??

Love,
Sis

(P.S. I really do want to go to Scotland. One day. I promise!!)

Week 2 - Assignment #3 - Make a list of Books Read Long Ago Which It's Now Time To Reread

1. When Your Prayers Seem Unanswered (Michael Wilcox)
2. 5 Scriptures that will get you through almost anything (John Bytheway)
3. Charlie (Jack Weyland - a classic!)
4. Book of Mormon
5. The Continuous Atonement (Brad Wilcox) I just finished this, but want to read it again! You always miss good parts!!

Week 2 - Assignment #4 - comments on discipline on the post of the instructor.

Week 2 - Assignment #5 - list my 5 biggest worries

1. I won't be alive long enough to see all my children succeed in this life!
2. The Lord will decide we need to have another baby. (I don't think I could handle this!!)
3. Losing one of my children! (I want to die before all of them!)
4. Not being good enough to spend eternity with my husband, kids and brother!
5. Losing my husband to a war! Stupid terrorists!!

*Note - Obama's health care plan ranks high on this list too. My husbands schooling and job will be questionable if it passes. We have worked so hard to get to where we are. I just hope they figure out something else first!!

Be afraid, be very afraid!

So, I had a moment in church today that I would like to share. These last 48 days that we have been in Alaska have been very difficult for me! Here is a story for you:

There we were, sitting in church. Maggie is at the worst stage (in my mind) where she won't sit still, she won't be quite and she doesn't want to stay with us. So, during the sacrament, she started one of her screaming fits. Aaron pulled her up on her lap and whipped out his phone and turned it on one of his games. Probably the one with the bee that bounces up and down – the kids usually like that one! My moment happened when she instantly stopped crying and watched his phone. It was then I realized how quickly she was distracted. While I was watching her, I realized that the same thing has happened to me in the last 48 days. The adversary was able to distract me from my purpose and from being happy. He threw enough in front of me that I stopped thinking about what really mattered and focused on so many things that I couldn't change. I was over run with doubt, fear, helplessness, instability, loneliness and pity. I quit reading my scriptures. We still said family prayer, but I stopped saying my personal prayers.

I felt the absence of the spirit, so I went to the LDS bookstore here and spent quite a bit of money on some great books. I have read 3 of the books and they were great and I learned a TON, however, I still didn't feel very close to the spirit. I couldn't figure out why. People, I have figured it out! My heart was so full of bitterness and sorry and self pity, that there was no room for the spirit to dwell. In the moment that I realized this, I felt the spirit flood through my body. I felt the great love that Heavenly Father has for me. I felt closer to him than I think I ever have. I have so many blessings that I have not paid attention too. I have amazing family and friends all over the world. I have a family here that I love and they depend on me. I feel like one of the sheep that have wondered off from the heard. I have finally found my way back to the Shepherd and feel of the love and concern from him. I never got so far away that I couldn't hear the Shepherds voice, but I was far enough away to be protected by his great care.

Why does this happen? Satan picks the times when we are the weakest to pile on the hardest trials. I have great work here to do in Alaska. Satan wanted me to forget my purpose. Forget my mission. Forget that I was a daughter of God. He loves me and I love him! I remember! I remember who I am and what I need to stand for! I remember my great worth. Satan should be afraid!

Obama’s Health Care Bill – Funny!

Aaron got this from one of his friends at work. I thought it was pretty funny! Enjoy!

The AMA responds to the Health Care Bill ----

The American Medical Association has weighed in on the new Obama health care proposals.

The Allergists voted to scratch it, but the Dermatologists advised not to make any rash moves. The Gastroenterologists had sort of a gut feeling about it, but the Neurologists thought the Administration had a lot of nerve.

The Obstetricians felt they were all laboring under a misconception. Ophthalmologists considered the idea shortsighted. Pathologists yelled, "Over my dead body!" while the Pediatricians said, "Oh, Grow up!"

The Psychiatrists thought the whole idea was madness, while the Radiologists could see right through it. Surgeons decided to wash their hands of the whole thing. The Internists thought it was a bitter pill to swallow, and the Plastic Surgeons said, "This puts a whole new face on the matter...."

The Podiatrists thought it was a step forward, but the Urologists were pissed off at the whole idea. The Anesthesiologists thought it was a gas, and the Cardiologists didn't have the heart to say no.

In the end, the Proctologists won out, leaving the entire decision up to the rectums in Washington.

Week 1 assignment #5

-Search through a drawer in your heart. Are there memories that shaped your self image? Write about a time your feelings were hurt. Why do you think you still remember? How does that help you understand yourself better?

I immediately thought of a difficult time in most girls' lives. 7^th grade. It was during this time that I had a VERY bad hair cut. It was very short. Add to this equation a new pair of glasses. What does that equal? Being totally different. I was never part of the "In" crowd anyway, but this made me a walking target. I remember being made fun of on picture day. A bad hair day (come on, every day was a bad hair day that year) and glasses. Wow. I don't remember specific people teasing me, but I remember being so self conscious that I didn't want to go to school. I didn't want to put myself out there at all. I had a huge crush on Todd Coates, but I knew he would look twice at me.

So, what did I do? What any sensible 7^th grader would do. I started putting my glasses case in my backpack and as soon as my mom or dad dropped me off at school, I would put them in their case and tuck them safely in my backpack. I grew my hair to a short bob and by Christmas time, life wasn't as bad. Except I couldn't see for most of the day, but a small sacrifice for friends, right? Wrong! I got in with the "wrong crowd." Back during the days of gangs and big bangs, I was one of those. It was because of these "friends" that I ended up switching schools and changing the course of my life. I will never be more grateful for those rotten girls who made fun of me due to my glasses or hair or whatever. Looking back now, I realize it was their own insecurities that motivated them to tear others down. 2 of those girls have committed suicide and 1 is in a psych treatment program and not going to get out until 2023 due to some crimes she committed.

What did this teach me? It doesn't matter what someone looks like. How their hair is cut or their size that matters. It is who they are as a person and how they treat others. Some of the best people don't fall into society's standards of "skinny" or "smart" or "successful." I ask you this question, who is Society? I reached a place in my life right around age 20 where I no longer cared what others thought of me. How they reacted to me was not my problem. I was (and am) totally comfortable with who I am as a women, wife, mother and friend, (Except, I want to lose 25 more pounds.) I live and I love and if someone doesn't like that, then I don't have the time to spend to make my life okay with them. Life is too short anyway! Who are they anyway? Life is to short to spend it making sure other people like who you are. I wish people would learn to live their lives for them and do what makes them happy. When we die and are evaluating our life on the other side, I don't want to have regrets for not doing the things that I wanted to do or that were important to me or my family.

There are a few folks whom I will never be good enough for. For those people, I feel a sense of sorrow. I am satisfied with my life and the choices that I have made that got me here. If I could go back, I wouldn't change much. I love my husband and my children more than I ever thought possible. I am spiritually stronger than I ever could have imagined, and still growing. I am so blessed! The Lord loves me, my husband loves me and my children love me. How can I go wrong? I will be with them for eternity! What a place to be? Kind-of makes that 7th grade experience "worth it." The reward is always greater than the trial! It is sometimes hard to remember that, but when you look back, you know it is true!

Assignment #4

Assignment #4 – List 25 unique abilities for you.

This is always a hard thing. You don't want others to think you are bragging or putting yourself on a pedestal, so just bare with me!

Compassionate Caring Generous

Creative Kind Understanding

Good listener Supportive Non judgmental

Open Receptive Willing to teach

Eager to learn Dedicated Loyal

Determined Enthusiastic Strong Willed

Loud Respectful Encouraging

Supporting Personable Comfortable in my own skin

My ability to make others feel important and able to talk to me (sometimes this is a Curse!!)

Assignment #3

Assignment #3 – Blog about a book you have read over and over.

The first book that came to my mind is When Your Prayers Seem Unanswered by Michael Wilcox. I have read this book so many times and even given it as presents to friends who seem to be struggling and need a small pick me up. It is an easy and fun read, yet so insightful at the same time. When reading this book, you begin to notice all the things in your life that are a direct answer to your prayers that you would have probably overlooked.

While reading this book, I grew more spiritually than I could have ever expected. I read it simply to take my mind off the fact that Nate wasn't sleeping. (During his newborn screaming stage.) After my reading sessions each night, I would fall to my knees and pour my heart out to my Heavenly Father. Mostly in thanks but also with the ability to understand why I was being tried and to always help me to see those small answers. Sometimes, if you can see those, you don't feel as alone or picked on. (While typing this, it occurs to me that I need to pick it up again and reread it. I am in need of that life at this moment!!)

The adversary is so strong around us. We are being tempted at every turn. Sometimes, having a reminder that we are heard and watched over is all the motivation we need to continue with our head held high and a smile on our face! Another good one is 5 Scriptures that will get you through Almost Anything by John Bytheway. Another one to motivate you into action!

My Assignments

I have decided to attend writing school. If you are interested, check here. I am a few days behind, so this might be a long post.

Day 1 - write a blog post about why I have a blog.

Why do I have a blog. Honestly, after 4 kids, it is very hard for me to remember names, dates and events in the correct order. That is the main purpose of my blog for me. Considering others, it is a nice way for friends/family to keep tabs on us on their time. It allows for me to write and update on my time. This is a win-win for both sides of the equation.

Day 2 - List 10 places you want to go

1. Scottland - I have heard that Scotland is beautiful and green. Combined with good food and the accent, how can you go wrong. I have heard they have great brews, although I will not be able to see if this is the case.
2. Hawaii - Need I say more? How can you go wrong with endless miles of beach and Luau's? I do want to be in my "skinny" state when I visit Hawaii though. I don't want to be scared of wearing my bathing suit for others to see.
3. Japan - my desire to visit Japan comes from my husbands love of the country and people. I am intrigued about their customs and traditions. I would like to sample "real" Japanese food.
   
4. Paris - how could you not want to visit the "City of Love?" One of our good friends recently moved to Paris, so it would be way fun to see him. I think the last time we saw him was at Brian's wedding. Steve, if you stay for a couple of years, you might have some visitors!
5. Chicago - I have always thought it would be awesome to go to Chicago. I would love to attend Oprah's "My favorite things" show. Hello!!!
6. Lake Powell - this is located in Utah. Although I was born and raised in Utah, I have never gone to Lake Powell. This also falls under the swim suit clause! I would enjoy days of laying in the sun. Swimming and water skiing.
7. Fairbanks, Alaska - I have always seen pictures of the Northern Lights but never knew what they were. Now that I live in Alaska, I desire to take the train to Fairbanks and see the dancing stars. Colors everywhere. I am hoping to do this when my parents are here around Christmas time. Plus, what a fun time to visit North Pole Alaska!
8. Jerusalem - I want to walk where my Savior walked. I want to have more of an understanding of the scriptures and his journey and his life before I make this trip. The more I study the life of my Savior, the closer I feel to him. \
9. Florida - more specific, Disney World and Sea World. This desire is specifically to go with my kids. I want them to be old enough to really enjoy the trip and be able to do it all without having to worry about naps and breakdowns. I am hoping when we leave Alaska, we can stop and Disney Land in California and do a test run with that. Maggie will be 4 or 5, so we will see.
10. Cruise - hopefully to the Carribian. This too falls under the swim suit clause (I am working on it - I promise! 10 pounds down). For this one - I want it to be just my husband and me. 5 or 7 days of just us. Having just us time. Being able to sleep through the night without little children waking us up for this or that. No breaking up fights, playing referee or punishing children. How nice would that be?

I am still behind 2 assignments, but I have 1 child in total breakdown, 1 child I need to wake up, 1 child that possibly needs to go to the ER and the last one needs some one on one attention. This has been a lot of fun! Watch for my blog post about a book I have read over and over and 25 of my unique abilities or list of 10 things I like about my body. Not sure which one I am going to choose!

Seriously people....

This is the last time. I am getting everything ready to mail out change of address forms. If you haven't sent me your current address in the last 2 months, you need to send me an e-mail with your address. If not, you will not be included in our Moving mailer or our Christmas card list. This will be the last chance.

two words...one sound

Kennie brought home one of his in class worksheets today. I laughed so hard I cried. It's called Pairs of Pears. It's the same word, spelled different with different meanings. So, you had to connect the two that were the same word. On the bottom, you were supposed to use of of the pairs and write 2 sentences. Each using one of the words. Kennie picked 2 new words. Here are his sentences! So funny!

1. I whine when I get hurt.
2. Laben drank wine.

I am sure his teacher was like, huh? Who's Laben?!? So funny!

My week from Hades!

Pardon the long post, but this has been a long week. I'll start by saying that you don't want to look at a few of the pictures if you have a weak stomach. It's been a ROUGH week for us and that is saying the least.

Tuesday - I walked Justin and Kennie to school. It was Justin's first day and he was so very excited. Came home and decided to go work out. I went to a place that has a children play land next to the work out machines. There is no one watching the kids, but you can watch while you work out. Well, I will spare all the details, but Maggie got her finger stuck on the bottom of the treadmill. After a few seconds, I figured something was wrong. By the time I got to her, she was bleeding pretty bad. She punctured her fingers (birdie and ring finger on her right hand). She also had quite a bit of skin shaved off. I took her to the ER and they did an x-ray that showed no broken bones or foreign bodies, so the wrapped it and sent us home. She had a GREAT nap and is healing. I think she severed her tendon in her birdie finger because she won't move or bend it at all. We will have an appointment with the hand surgeon in the next week or two and she will need occupational therapy in the near future.
While Maggie was taking her nap, the delivery company came to deliver my brand new couches. One of the movers carries my love seat in by him self. Hello?? Then, that same mover, while they were bringing in the sofa SLEEPER tripped over a curb and fell backwards and dropped my couch on his ankle. He busted his ankle and busted my couch. OH!

Wednesday - Nate woke up screaming at 2 in the morning. Aaron went in his room and he wasn't in his bed. He had walked into the closet and closed the door behind him. He was trapped. Then about 10 minutes later he was screaming again, so I went to check on him and he had fallen down the stairs. He was 5 stairs down sprawled out head first with his feet touching the top landing. Later in the day, Kennie and Justin had Dr. appointments for perscriptions so they could go to school. I had to take all 4 kids because Aaron was busy doing his work stuff.

Thursday - At 2 am, Nate woke up screaming and when I ran into his room, he was throwing up all over. So, I got it cleaned up and it happened again about an hour later. Maggie had a doctors appointment with the wound care doctor at 10, so off we went to that. (He said that Maggie's fingers are looking better than he expected and she should be okay.) Well, I ran to target real quick to get my mom and mother-in-laws birthday presents. On the way home, Nate started throwing up all over again. TONS!! It was gross and it was everywhere. I pulled over on the side of the road (on the military base) and took him out of the car, stripped him down and threw everything away. I wasn't even going to mess with it.

Friday - Nate woke up again at 2:30 am throwing up more. (I am not going to go back and edit, but Nate was also pooping out of every diaper. We seriously went through 7 outfits each day.) I had the walk through with the new property manager of the old house. I refused to cook. I was beat. After we put the kids to bed, I painted the first coat of paint on the 3 walls in our bedroom.

Saturday - made it through the night without Nate throwing up!! Still pooping everywhere (more of that in a moment). I finished the 3 walls in our bedroom and after our VERY expensive Costco run, we taped and I painted the first coat on the 4th wall. Let that dry during dinner then went up to paint the 2nd coat. The time was 7:30ish and I had just finished the 2nd coat. I was admiring my AWESOME paint job when Kennie knocked over the NAVY BLUE paint (at least 1/2 full gallon container) on the BRAND NEW carpet. Oh, my heart stopped. So I wouldn't beat him, I sent him to bed. (Pretty easy punishment if you ask me!) Aaron didn't even want to try to clean it up. He just said we would pay for new carpet when we moved out. I wasn't ready to throw in the towel just yet, so I worked for the next 2 hours with our Bissel (LOVE LOVE LOVE this) green carpet spot cleaner. Aaron worked for another hour while I swept, mopped and cleaned the kitchen from dinner. We let it dry with the intention of doing another round on Sunday night.

Sunday - (Just when you thought we have had it all!!) We are at church. I had just finished Sunday School in the nursery (Maggie doesn't function very well if not in nursery and she is not quite old enough, so we take her in and play with her in there). It was Aaron's turn. He was sitting in there and I was chatting with the neighbors when I hear Aaron screaming at me. I look up and see him and Justin (Aaron was holding Justin's head) and blood. I couldn't believe it. I am VERY grateful for adrenaline because if I didn't have any, I would have had a nervous breakdown right then and there. Instead, we rushed Justin to the ER for stitches. He was walking back to primary from his class when another boy cut in front of him and made him trip. He fell into a metel fire hose box and smashed above his eye. He only recieved 1 stitch because it isn't very wide, but it is pretty deep. He was a trooper and didn't even cry. His word of the day is numb. We talked all about it in the ER. Thanks to The Stone's for taking care of Nate and Kennie while we were in the ER.
Typing this, I am in awe of all that has happened. I hope you don't mind me recording this here. If I had even a little bit of time to myself, I would write a book. But, seriously, when am I going to do that?

I will say this - I am done. I am ready for a small break. I just want to get my boxes unpacked, sleep in my bed for a full night and be able to sit with my kids and read a book or even maybe spend a few hours in my scrap-room. (Still in boxes!) At this moment, Aaron is playing with his new toy (a power drill) to keep Maggie out from under the sink so she will stop eating the dishwasher cubes. I know, call me crazy.

Through this all, I am grateful for so many things. I am very grateful for the support of the friends (few as they are) that I have in Alaska! I couldn't have made it through this last week without the knowledge that I could call. I haven't called much, but I knew I could if I needed too. I am thankful that we are in our home and that we are finally getting settled. I still miss Ohio and my "old life" like crazy, but I am starting to feel a peace in Alaska. I know the Lord has us here for a reason, and I will try to fulfill my mission here with my head up high. I am grateful for the friends and family who are living close enough to the spirit to know that I needed a call or an e-mail. You know who you are. Thank you for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers.

Mostly, I am thankful for my dear sweet husband. I don't know how I would have made it through this difficult time without him. He hasn't been home a lot, but the time he is here, he is always trying to make it better. He doesn't complain too much and is always trying to make me smile. If you can imagine, this week has been hard, but he always manages to do it. I am so grateful that he chased me and that I listed to the spirit. He is perfect for me. I love you dude!!

Now, I am not ready for a full reveal, because we are not done, but I thought you would like a teaser. So, here is a picture of our room and the living room! The first is our living room. It's a dark sage green with our Chocolate new couches. You can see the quilt that my mother-in-law helped me make. (Some would say that will earn her eternity just for putting up with me,) but I really loved doing this. Stay tuned for my table runner that I did all by myself!! When Aaron say me making the quilt, has asked if this was my attempt at being homly. Funny hunny!!
Next is our bedroom. 3 of the walls are "Bamboo" and the other wall is Navy Blue. If I can find it, our duvet cover will be cranberry along with the curtains. It's an Americana theme!