pictures and all

So here are our last few days in pictures!

this one is getting ready to deliver our neighbor gifts. I know it's messy but such is life with 5-right? we gave our some assortments of jam and jelly this year.

THis is delivering the jam.

this is before church on the 23rd.

this is christmas eve dinner. We have a new tradition we started a few years ago. We try and eat what Jesus' would have eaten. To shake it up this year we did fancy pita pockets as our main dish. ANd of course, I had to use the china anyway. 'cause it Christmas!!

Later that evening the kids gave us their version of the Nativity scene. They had worked on it all day!!This is the 'Angel' telling the shepherd's about Jesus.

This is Mary showing her baby with the angel watching overhead!! LOL


THis is some presents they got. These three got Robes!!

JAde opening her gift. SHe didn't need a robe so she got a webkinz.She was ecstatic-finally she got one!!

Miss Alexa looking very tired. She is in her new Christmas dress.

The topping on the cake so to speak. We made the kids wait until late in the day for this one, it was fabulous. They are cheering over the excitment over their new Nintendo Wii!!! Santa brought it and it went unnoticed under the tree for a while. But finally it was opened. YEA!!!! dad is setting it up here. They were so suprised. I think this made Brynlee so happy!!! (oh and dad and mom ,too!!)

Dad setting up the remote control train extensions here!

The kids in the snow. I made them take all the snow off of the tramp. It was bowing under the weight. We were dumped on, I think. It was 2 days of snowing straight. We now have 18 inched of snow I think.

Robert shoveling for the 3rd time in 1 1/2 days.This stuff just kept coming. I don't think I have seen this much snow, since the winter of 96-97. I think it was. We were in RExburg then and there was ALOT!!

HAppy Holidays!!

Home again

We're back!! we had a blast. The roads were great. We were blessed. We actually travelled quite fast and happily.The kids did great. We were in Salt Lake by 2pm and were all checked in and ready to go. The Hotel worked out great. We had two rooms. They were adjoining and I think the kids really liked it.

Here I am ready for the Party. I wish I had taken a better one of my clothes but oh well!

we had fun at the party and then on Saturday we enjoyed a day of shopping with the kids. We also went to see the movie National Treasure. It was really good. We liked it. Well I am off to make cinnamon rolls and and prep for our Christmas Eve celebrations. Merry Christmas to you all!!

getting ready

So I tried out this product with my friend. It was on Oprah. The day she did her stylist and hair tricks. This was one of the 'secrets' they gave. So I decided to give it a try considering that I was going to a fancy affair this weekend with my husband's work. I love the result. I think it did make it a little more 'shiny' and I liked the color and texture. This is not a hair color. Just a shampoo and conditioner for brunette(mine is chestnut to espresso) hair with a glaze to use afterwords.( You of course would use your own hair type) I am going to try it out a while longer. Hopefully I still like it. I also bought shoes for this affair to go with my outfit. I actually hadn't planned on the shoes but realized when I got home that all I owned were boots. (For church) I had wore out all my fancy dress shoes awhile ago, but was content to use the boots, until now. I think the last pair of nice dress shoes I bought was like 7 years ago. SO I was hunting for shoes yesterday and I think I found the perfect pair. I love the way these look.

I'm sorry the picture is kinda poor. But they are super cute on!

WE leave tomorrow and I have to pack everyone today. I never like this part. It seems that their is always alot to get done. I have to get to the post office before I go and the car also is getting an oil change. SO much to do and so little time!! Wish me luck!!

3 year old Business

I think everything I do today is being undone by my 3 year old. Brock is busy pulling the couch cover's off, getting into cupboards and crying uncontrollably when he doesn't get what he wants. Today is tough. On another note, Robert may have to work some of the days after Christmas, But they will pay him time and a half. So that's nice. I was counting on him being home, But between the young men's and work calling, I think he will be gone alot. But I guess, I'll survive. Having a head's up on it helps. I think I am really ready for him to be around and so I'm just a little disapointed. But I do think the break will be fun. The kids are so excited for Christmas. They are guessing their presents and counting down the days. They can't wait. And I think it is infectious. Because now I am getting into the mood. We scored on some of their gifts though. And I can't wait for them to get them. have a great day all!!!

the girls

Ok Alexa climbs up here and then cries because she can't get down. She's cute, but this is getting old! I'm not sure what the temptation is to be up there. It is fairly high, but nothing to do when you get there! (If anyone knows how to rotate the pic let me know)

This is Brynlee posing with Alexa. I thought it was cute. It was a brief moment before Alexa was off. I think I even caught a hint of a smile!

New Table

We got a new Table!!! YEA!! It actually sits 10 people. So we are loving all the space. We don't use all the leaves daily -but we CAN!!! It has butterfly leaves and they even store inside the table. This picture is not actually our table but it is what ours looks like.

Bonus

So I am really Jazzed that Robert got a BONUS today!!! YEA!!! Very exciting for us. It is always nice to get 'extras'-especially this time of year. Robert has submitted all paperwork and is set to take tests in March. (we hope)So alot going on here. gotta go, bye

House work

Tonight Jade asked me if I loved to clean. I answered, "No, not particularly, Why?" Well, she went on to ask if I liked it when I was little. I answered, No, I even liked it less then. So I ask again, "Why?" And she says, well, it's all you do. So now you know what have been doing all these years. ANd the funny thing is, if you dropped off at my house at any given moment -almost guaranteed, it won't look like I did a darn thing that day. Brock and Alexa have taken to pulling all of the wall hangings down and piling them in the middle of the floor. Now, I am not sure of the point of this, other than they can reach the stuff from the couches. It sure drives me crazy though. I am not sure some days that I will survive my cute 3 year old and his 21 month old sister!!! They tag team lately. I don't quite know what to make of them. Brynlee and Jade were 22 months apart and they were not busy like this. They played together way more, Brock and Alexa are 20 months apart, but they seem to really, really have a love hate relationship going on. Alexa has real attitude and has taken to telling me to "Go Away" -Let me tell you this doesn't go over really well. I actually think she is just repeating to me what is told to her by the other kids on a daily basis. But this little girl has got to learn who she is talking to in her very snotty voice! SO ****sigh**** I guess that's one more thing to work on!! On a completely different note, I am holding cub scouts tomorrow, AT MY HOUSE. I am not sure what kind of death wish I was hoping for, but tomorrow I will find out. I'm sure it will be ok. Or at least that is the mantra I keep telling myself. We are decorating sugar cookies and caroling with the WeBeLos. So I guess we will see how all this goes with the boys all together. I am a bit overwhelmed I think. I need to bake a couple dozen sugar cookies tomorrow. I think that is the one cookie I can't bake very well. Almost anything else I can conquer. But luck would have it that I have to do this one. LOL! I guess that's life.

messes

So, Alexa just took off her diaper and pooped on the floor. I can't wait until she is potty trained. I think I am starting to count down until she is 'old' enough. This makes me more than ever, happy we have tile and hardwood floors! Way easy to clean up this mess. Anyway, just thought I would let you all in on my doings!!! gotta go, I think I hear a fight brewing!!

clothes

I was able to go shopping yesterday and get me some 'party' clothes for Robert's work party. It is in Salt Lake again this year and I can't wait. We reserved two rooms at the Red Lion and I think it will be a blast. We are planning on letting the kids do their shopping for each other while we are down there. I was excited because Lane Bryant had 40% of their store yesterday, and for those of you who care, they are having another 40% off day on the 12th! Yup, very cool! Anyway, I am happy with what I got. Robert went with me and helped do the shopping. He was a pretty good little shopping buddy, he held my purse and other items I wanted to try on, and he actually gave input about the clothes. Not bad-I think!But I do think a girlfriend would have been the best. The gal who was going to tag along, couldn't come after all, so Robert had to come, It was quite funny though, There was 3 other men in the store and in the dressing area when we were. They ALL looked somewhat ashamed, and wouldn't make eye contact. I think I got a good ol' chuckle out of it!! SO I will have to post pictures of the new duds, when I go to the party!! We just got a new digital camera. A new little present to us, for christmas, I'm so excited to use it! anyway, hope all of your holiday plans go well!!

shopping

I'm excited. I went shopping today to finish up the Christmas stuff, and In Porter's I found the new Mary Englebrect calendar for 2008. I have always wanted one, and by the time I was getting it together I couldn't find it anywhere. Usually that happened sometime after the new year. So this year I decided to start early and go for it and get what I want now.
Ashley, (my cousin) I read an exert from your book "Book of A Thousand Days" And I can't wait to try it. I think it looks like a great read. Thanks for the heads up about it. Apparantly, there is quite alot of buzz about this book on the web and I hadn't even heard of it!! I'm really out of it. Anyway, I can't wait to read it and possibly, (if appropriate) Brynlee can read it too!
Thanks!

wandering thoughts

Holiday Business, why is it when I don't have it I want it, and when it is here I don't like it? I wonder if it is that 'grass is greener' side of me. That part that is just slightly convinced that others may have it better? But then, The other part of me snaps to attention and is like, what are you thinking you have it great. You have a nice life with lots of great blessings. I am not talking material goods here, I seem to covet things like organizational skills or talents of decorating. Mostly what I find that I want is
1.) great HAIR (this hair that I want is almost impossible. it is a quest I have been after for awhile. I want hair that looks like I stepped out of a romance novel. The kind that's long and BIG. It would multi-tonal, it also would have an awesome cut. I know that it sounds bizarre!!!!!!
2.) home organizational skills. you know, everything in it's place, kind of thing. So easy to maintain that even my KIDS could do it, but alas, I wonder if that to is impossible.
I do have a somewhat organized home but I find that I am always throwing 'stuff' out. that I like to dejunk it. But sometimes this dejunk phase comes after a hording phase. Right now I am so dejunking everything. I'm sorry this post is so random. Just a bunch of thoughts that are wandering around in my head, I thought I would just throw them out there!

Temples

So we ordered our Rexburg Temple Open House tickets today. What a relief. My husband did it at work and he called to let me know that all of December is booked and the 1st week of January is gone too, So these tickets are going fast. I hope all of my friends around here will be able to commandeer some tickets-(if they haven't already)!! Our family is super excited. The last time we saw an Open House the kids were 6, 4 and 1. So they are due to see another one.!! It was a special experience before. Brynlee still remembers it and it had quite an impact on her and I hope it will on all the kids this time a round.

We have been really sick this week. So We're all feeling better now, what a relief. that sickness was horrible.

The Idaho Falls visitor's center is also opening up and today on Robert's Lunch we went and toured it. It was so weird, when we went in everyone knew him and came and talked to us. I guess it is strange for me because everywhere we have moved we have lived in relative amonimity. I think that has been somewhat comforting to us. And now we are settling in. I think it's different to know people and be known. It's kind of nice. I don't know that I have felt that in many places. (besides Royal) maybe I'm just ready for it now. At this point in my life.
The visitor's center was awesome. They have set up some new exhibits and they are beautiful as well as informative. I loved it. Also, they have tried some new things in this center that are going to be copied in the Oakland, CA visitor's center and a few others that are in other countries. So that was an interesting tidbit I learned. Anyway, I am just feeling blessed to live near a temple especially at this time of year when all the fun exhibits are up.

Brock

Our Holiday went perfectly, I think. It was a really good break. Robert had a blast with the kids and felt like he was able to reconnect with everyone. I loved the family time as well. We're gearing up for christmas, so that's on all our minds now. Sunday turned out being a little more eventful. Brock stuck a rock up his nose! Yep, AGAIN! You would think that the mint would have done him in, but oh no, we had to to the Urgent care and get it removed. HE came upstairs crying that his nose hurt. And Robert was trying to figure out what was wrong, but I knew immediatly, I just said "Brock, did you put something in there?" and he just nodded, said, "Yup, a wock" it took a minute for me to register that he meant a ROCK!! so we looked in there and you could see just not grab it. So I took him into Urgent care and they were quick and efficient and we weren't even late for church!! it didn't even seem to phase him much-too bad really, I was hoping he would be a little more traumatized so he won't do it again. I think we will be revisiting this again, hopefully not soon. When we got in the car to go home from the clinic he turned to me and said, mom can we have McDonald's? so I don't think he was bothered much. I hope your holiday went well and everyone enjoyed their time off. bye.

Gratitiude

Happy Thanksgiving!!

So in honor of the day I wanted to share my thankful list.

*I'm glad my husband has a steady job, doing something he loves.
*I am grateful for all of my children
*I am grateful that I have been tired, that means I am busy!
* I am grateful that I have family who loves me and family to visit with on This Holiday!
*I am grateful for the Gospel.
* I am grateful my kids have other good role models to look up to.
* I am grateful for the friends I have made in this area.
*I am grateful for a husband who takes me out and who doesn't mind me go out with my friends!
* I am grateful for the Changing weather!
*Most especially I am grateful for HUMOR in my life!! Without it I may be left with nothing!!

Have a wonderful Holiday!!

Technology

I have been listening to a talk radio show on the am station, and they were talking about how technology is killing our communication skills. At first as I was listening I wasn't so sure. But after hearing all the callers I think I agree, this is what some of the callers have pointed out.

* The new generations have grown up with talking on cell phone, email, blackberry, ect. So when the babyboomer generation dies and leaves all the CEO positions open, will the next generation have the people skills to take over the positions?
* Relationships with extended family are hurt because everyone uses their cell phone and so you call that one person direct. So if my in-laws always called my husband's cell phone and didn't have to call me, or deal with me at all on the phone, because they didn't call the house phone-would our relationship hurt?
* Because of email, and and texting, most people don't use letters and stationary like they used to. This translates into nothing is physically in our possesion to keep from that person. AKA: old letters in the basement from a high school sweetheart, not even missionary letters if they were emailed and not printed out. Letters while dating, notes from a fiance', all these great items that aren't saved.
There were many other great things pointed out on this program, these were just a few.
So my mind started thinking about the council from the Prophets to keep a daily journal. And I have never seriously considered this because I have not wanted others to read my really inner thoughts, (although having a blog might seem contrary to that thought! I don't put the really serious stuff down, some how it seems different to have a private journal.). But now I am rethinking that idea. I am worried that none of my grandchildren will really know me or understand my decisions. Because I never bothered to document anything of value. With our easily deleted world I may not leave a mark for others to get to learn of my life by. So I think I may have to pick up a journal to keep for myself. I think the time has come for me to figure out how to get it all out on paper! Does anyone have a thought or idea about this?

Holiday Spirit

I'm starting to get really excited for the holidays this year. It starting a little late-but I'm getting there! It's fun to plan the holiday menu. The great food is always a must. I'm going to the store to get all the 'stuff' today. Last year I didn't want to think about it -any of it. But this year I'm definitly game. I have been planning Christmas decorations already. We have some great fun coming with Thanksgiving. The kids are really excited for the company and the fun activities that come with the holiday. I'm glad Robert will be off the whole time, so that's cool. I enjoy just being with the kids, and going out for the fun stuff. We're taking the kids to the tree lighting ceremony the day after Thanksgiving. I want them to go on the horse drawn carriage rides. As well as the Day after Thanksgiving shopping spree. That I am planning as well. Can't wait for it all.

link

Check out this link. I saw it on another blog, but thought it was interesting enough to want to post it to mine. It is pretty amazing!

http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,22556281-661,00.html

Babies

So I was talking to a friend today about pregnancy. The differences of when you are pregnant with your first and when it's -say your fifth! In the beginning everything is so exciting and new, it's like oh, look my boobs are sore. And I think, I'm getting morning sick, Wow this is really happening! Other things like, Yippee- I get to buy my first maternity pants, how EXCITING!! Well by the fifth its like, I realize this ends in a baby, and I'm happy about that, BUT this middle stuff kinda sucks, as well as by the time Alexa was born you really get how LONG the pregnancy lasts. The phrases turn into things like, oh crap, I'm into maternity pants already, I hope they still fit by the end! and this morning sickness really sucks! And don't touch me husband I feel rotten. :-) Don't get me wrong. The BABY part is the best. It's the pregnancy I'm referring to. The last 2 pregnancy's have really been rotten for me. So by the last one, I was really leary on how all this would be on my family. Having the other kids was hard because I just really wanted to go to bed all the time but couldn't. I still had responsibilities. But I love 'em all now. It's just funny how perspective changes things. First pregnancies-and the next few, are still exciting , they're new, and fun. Like an adventure, but things change and the perspective changes. You now have other children to care for and it changes the focus from just your pregnancy to the precious babies already born. And how the new one will fit into the family. The worries change from, "is it going to be a good baby" and " I wonder what they'll look like?" to " I hope the others accept the new baby, and will I adjust to more children? I hope that I can find sleep somewhere!" It's such an experience that I could not have fathomed how it would have turned out at the beginning of my 'story'. But I am excited to see how the end of my story will turn out- in 50 years or so-I hope!!

Too Funny

Many of you know that we have a siamese cat named King Henry. He's a really good cat, the kids love him and he puts up with their shinanigans.Tonight I was getting ready to make dinner and I could hear the cat moewing, I thought he was outside and wanted in. So I ignored it. Well Brock comes walking into the kitchen and he opens the potholder drawer and out pops the cat!! He didn't look upset in the slightest, he just meandered off! I couldn't believe it. I checked my drawer and the towells and potholders were quite warm, I think he had been in there quite awhile. I don't know what to think of this cat sometimes!!

Harried Day

So our plumbing seems to be on the fritz. The Kitchen sink is backed up and the upstairs toilet is also backed up. It's driving me crazy to go downstairs to go to the bathroom. Sounds lazy doesn't it? Also, going into the bathroom for water to cook with is getting old. I hope Robert can get it fixed tonight! On a different note, the River City Weekly (that's the paper that the kids have their route through) sent a letter today saying they are no longer paying carriers to deliver their paper. So, as of today they don't have a job. Well it was good while it lasted!

On an up note, My husband was informed today that he was picked out of the company to go to Boston in the spring for a conference. All expense paid. So exciting!! I am so proud of him. The total cost of just the conference is $1500.00 so it's not something we probably would have done! He's excited and I can't wait to hear about his trip. TFL!

Dinner

Here's what we had for dinner tonight. It was great. I tried a new recipe, I think it's a keeper. So I am here to share.

Chicken Drum metes

I bought 1 bag of the prefrozen kind. You don't have to buy that kind, you could use unfrozen ones. Thaw them out. Brush with olive oil, and salt & pepper.

Bake for 30 minutes at 500 degrees.

When they have cooked for 15 minutes, make your sauce.

Sauce

3/4 cup Balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 TBSP brown sugar
pinch of ginger
fresh garlic to taste
Half way through cooking time, turn over the chicken. This makes a crispy coating on the chicken that is divine.
Simmer to 1/2 cup. It should be syrupy. Add 1 TBSP butter. Next, coat chicken with sauce. They are fantastic. Great for party food.

We also ate green salad with home made croutons. (The BEST) The dressing was a Balsamic vinaigrette. It was also fantastic.

Balsamic Vinaigrette

1 cup olive oil
1/3 cup Balsamic vinegar
1 TBSP Dijon mustard
2 pinches of salt
fresh garlic to taste. (I use 2 cloves minced)
Blend in a blender or food processor.
This is AWESOME!!!

We had sweet corn and celery with ranch dressing. The meal was a hit and it was all done in about 30 minutes. It truly was quick and easy. I think we may be adding this to our menus, permanently!

Stake Conference was today. I loved it. The sessions were awesome. I haven't been this excited over conference (stake) in awhile. I really felt like the Brethren new what I needed to hear. That's all for now. Take care.

Halloween

We've had lots of sickness this week , but we made it (successfully) through HAlloween. Sorry-no fun pics of us in our getup. But we all had fun. Brynlee was a Genie, Jade was Aowen (from LOrd of the Rings) She was the Horse princess, Ian was Superman and Brock was Spiderman. THey all made a haul!! Robert was sick and now he is feeling alot better. We are going out with friends tonight so gotta go. I just wanted to give a report.

two truth's and a lie

OK, here goes the answers!

1. Twins!! Love it. TRUE. I have always wanted them. (usually glad when I don't though, how funny is that?) I do pick out twin names every time. But I'm sure the Lord knows what I can handle. SO I am grateful for what I have, But who says I can't day dream.............................

2. Diet Coke, TRUE love it, gotta have it. Although I'm better now, it's not EVERY DAY.

3. False, don't love internet shopping. I do a fair amount of it though. I prefer the textiles of the real thing. I am often frustrated by the online thing, because I can't feel it and try it on. (Which I always have to do) I like shopping, I just prefer the store.!! Haha

Thanks for playing this was fun. I liked hearing all the responses.!!

sorry

I had a link on this site to view the movie trailer THE GOLDEN COMPASS. I am taking it down. I urge all of you to go to snopes.com and read about this movie. I most certainly won't be viewing this movie. Or my kids. I was mislead and hope none of you will be as well. This isn't something I want my kids to be exposed to. SO SAD because the movie looked great and I couldn't wait to see it. so check out the link and then let me know what you all think.

who's lying now?

I saw this on a Lisa's blog. It's two truth's and a lie. Guess which one is the lie...........Now the hard part, I have to decide which thing I don't mind others knowing but still try and trick you all into picking the wrong thing!

1. I have always wanted twins. I figure why not? I've got 5 kids anyway!!??!! What's 2 more in the mix? I have even picked out names, every pregnancy hoping for a 'suprise' baby.

2. I LOVE Diet Coke. I have been known to load all the kids in the car, just to go through drive through and get one. I love the fountain drinks. It's more than the taste, I love the ice as well. Even the sound of the ice is intoxicating. I know it's bad for me, but yet I can't resist. I would barter for this to anyone.

3. I love internet shopping. The thrill of shopping isn't lost on the computer! Anytime, anywhere I can fill my obsession.

Go ahead, Let's see how convincing this is. How well am I known by others? good luck.

Fearless

Tonight was a night that I was totally wishin' that I had a digital camera. WE carved pumpkins for family home evening! I was fun to see what the kids came up with. And the funky faces they drew on the pumpkins actually looked fairly good on the jack-o-lanterns. So they were totally proud of themselves. Brock thought that they were 'scary' in the dark and Alexa wouldn't even come near them. Funny. I think they look great.

Brynlee gave her speach for her campaign today. she was so nervous to give it, she was even shaking. She looked great though. and I'm so proud of her, that she gave the speach despite her nerves! That's courageous, to not let fear dictate your life!

Robert is sick again with another abcess. Poor guy. Pretty miserable. We have been able to keep him out of the hopsital though. so I am happy with that. Grateful for whatever I can get these days.

We're all set for Halloween now. I can't wait!

fun run

So for my personal accountability I decided to post the 5k runs in our area.

2008 5K Run/Walks

March 1 Community Park
May 17 Community Care Health and Fitness
June 21 Scenic River Run
July 21 Race ya to the Playground
August 02 Rock Roll and Run
September 20 Run to Break the Silence
October 11 Run for the Cure
November 27 Run to Feed the Hungry
December 13 Jingle Bell Run


Maybe this can motivate one of you to finally go for it and try out a race!!

lots on my mind!

Update: Brynlee was picked to run her campaign at school. SO the game begins!! We now have posters and stickers to produce. Also campaign slogans and what not. I'm thinking : Vote Bryn and you'll always WIN! not sure what she thinks yet, but we're taking all ideas at this point. I am a little suprised that she wanted to run. She has seemed a little nervous in front of others for speaches and what not. But she was determined that she wanted to do this. She does alot of Speached in PACE. and I'm sure that has helped with her stage fright.

On a different note, tomorrow I'm going to the Lane Bryant Grand opening here in Idaho Falls. WHAT FUN!! All you Chubby Bunnies out there know what I'm talking about. Exciting- that I get to go with some friends of mine.

My girls are starting piano lessons Nov. 2nd. Very exciting stuff around here. They are super excited and so is this Mom. I want them to learn about music. And having that extra activity is a bonus in their lives, I think. Y0u know, positive outlets and all that stuff.


I have decided that I want to run in a fun run: a short 1 or 5k race. I picked up a schedule for 2008. And I'm making some decisions on what to do. I think that having a deadline will really help me with some motivation. Still getting up at 5:30 am (most mornings) although its getting awfully tough with the cold. It screams at me in the morning to STAY IN BED!! so I just need to figure out how to conguer this monster!!

ASB

Brynlee is running for ASB vice president of her elementary school. Does this seem a little weird to anyone else that there is ASB for elemnetary? I just was a little suprised. Anyway, I am very proud of her. She has worked really hard on her speach and the next step is to see if the teachers will nominate her to run. They have quite the process here, for this whole thing. A few hoops to jump through. I don't think i have ever met a child who took their studies as seriously as she does. It is very important to her to do her best at all times. I am very proud of her. But sometimes I have to remind her to be a kid. On another note, she is a great babysitter! I can see that teenagehood isn't going to be fun (she's 11 this year) I'm am desperatly trying to figure out how to dodge that one, but so far haven't some up with anything !! :-) So for today I want to say GOOD LUCK, Brynlee!!

10 things.

• Ten things you splurge on and ten things you save on. I saw this on my cousins blog, And I encourage you all to post it on your own bog!
  
  Splurge items
  
  1. date night dinners-gotta be good when I go out with my hubbie!
  2. make-up. Love it. Gotta have it!
  3. quality food for the fam. (doesn't mean name brand, just well prepared)
  4. shoes. love good quality shoes. They last longer and wear better.
  5. Hair cut. (for me) Love it at the salon!
  6. Cascade dishwasher soap. I think it works the best.
  7. Jeans for Robert. He rips out the cheap ones in 3 days!!
  8. Facial moisturizer. (for me) can't beat a quality face!!
  9. good BRA. Need's to fit the best. And I care where I buy this one!!
  10. jewelry making supplies. Fun, Fun, Fun.
  
  
  
  Save money items
  
  1. Halloween costume. make it or borrow it, or get it at D.I. not worth spending lots of $$
  2. Albertson's case lot sales. I buy 1-2 times a year and not again until the next sale. I get cereals for 50 cents and I buy the cream of mush. soups (and chicken) by the case as well.
  3. Hanes her way cheap t-shirts at walmart. I even by them on clearance. They are a great "uniform" to wear to clean the house in. They cost $5.50 normally unless you get on sale for like $3. I love this b/c if they get stained while cooking or cleaning I don't mind and I can save the good stuff for public.
  4. Canning free food. Like the neighbors apples or plums. Saves money in the long run and better quality too!
  5. Microfiber mop. Best investment ever. This thing is so good it doesn't even use cleaners to clean the floor. This way I only use water to do the floors and they look fabulous.
  6. Hair cuts for Ian and Brock. I even do Robert's. I don't love this but it saves alot of $$.
  7. Baking bread. Hardly ever buy the stuff anymore.
  8. paying bills online. Never send them snail mail. This way I save time and money (stamps)
  9. buying milk at the Dairy here where it is drive thru. Not going to the store when I don't absolutly have too keeps my money in my wallet where it needs to be!! (the drive thru milk thing is the best and I don't spend extra on stuff I don't really need!)
  10. planning a menu and sticking to it keeps us on a budget.

Alexa

Alexa is my cutie pie. She is so funny sometimes. Just very busy, busy, busy. She runs cirlces around Brock or stuck to me. It's kind of funny how hot or cold she can be. She is either stuck like glue to me or off going crazy with Brock. She seems to always want to be near me. And this gets old when I have a lot of work to do. like the canning or some other chore that can't be done with small children in tow. She is content to just rub my leg and suck her thumb. Sometimes it's awfully endearing. And other times I just worry about her. Wondering if she will create her own identity. SHe is very bossy when she is with Brock but I sometimes wonder if she's like that because he is so forceful. (he's a boy!) anyway. Just thinking of my Lexa tonight!!

sicky?

Brock came to me today and said "my nose hurts". Well I have had a pretty bad cold and I thought oh he's getting it too. His nose was all red and inflamed and runny, and he was about crying. SO I gave him some cold medicine and told him to lay down and he would feel better in awhile. SOoooo, awhile later he comes back to me and says "Mom it still hurts" and now it looks even worse and he was crying. SO I figured maybe he was getting a sinus infection or something, (do 3yr olds get sinus infections?). To try and do something I told him to go get some tissue, thinking I would help him blow his nose and maybe that would relieve some pressure. A few minutes later he comes running into the kitchen very happy and yelling "Mom, I got it!" holding a mint in his hand. Yup!, you guessed it. he stuck a mint in his nose. I said to him did you put it in there and he answered, "yup" Well I said don't do it again. and he just looked at me, So I 'm sure we will visit this again. Hopefully not soon though. His nose looks so much better though. I'm sure it was burning his nose and that's why it was running and inflamed. He could probably even breathe in the vapors!! LOL Well, I guess it's paybacks for getting into my purse, or do Mom's not get paybacks with their kids? Is that not a good Mom to think that? I'm not sure if it is or not, but I know I think it every once in awhile. things like this happen and I think " serves them right " I guess that's not to charitable is it? oh, well. something else to work on i guess!!

PDA

So today Robert and I finally got PDA's. Very exciting. We can now beam each other. I have grand ideas of no more forgotten grocery lists, and other info that's important for filling out forms for the kids. Like immunization records and other need to know info. -Like social security numbers. I can now access them all from my Pocket PC. I can be an organized me. Church will be cool when I get the scriptures down loaded on them and I am wondering if I can also get the church manuals, too? That would be nice. I carry alot of baggage at church and this would be one less thing to have to bring along!! Robert and I can also beam each other our calendars, task lists, and other fun stuff like a cool scripture(during church). Hopefully this can make my life easier if I learn to use it correctly. ie bring it to meetings and such so my calendar has the proper input. This way to I will be less likely to overlap the kids schedules. Did I mention that I'm excited?

happy moment

So as I was taking my husband dinner tonight, (I wanted a little alone time with him as he has been gone most of the day) I got into the car and the radio was blaring and it was a song I loved. I had the most satisfying feeling of 'oh ya' I've still got it! That feeling of when you have a really good hair day, or a great outfit on.And it's all gelling together and life feels wonderful. That's the feeling I'm talking about. And all because I was alone in the mini-van rocking out to some great music. And then I remembered that I am in a mini-van. I did come down to earth so to speak, by the time I came home and had my mommy role back on. But of for that 15 minutes today it felt great -just being me!!

kids

I wanted to add that Brock is a busy kid. He's one of the most busy 3 yr. olds I have met. And strangely enough it's not when we have company, I think he is subdued around strangers. but in our everyday lives He constantly keeps me on my toes. He is a cutie as well, but that is beside the point. Lately he has taken to playing in the car. (in our garage) Well he doesn't shut the door and the battery gets run down. So I think 4 times last month I had to call my husband (frantically) to "jump" our car. So I could get to places.Now we have had many 'talks' with him and he always nods and says 'yes, mommy' but does he listen? NO. So I have taken to locking the car and this worked for a few days until today. I caught him running outside with my keys. And I called him back and took the keys from him. And he says but I need them, to open the car. that TURKEY!! he so knows better. But at least that was a crisis averted. I'm not sure or not if he could actually unlock the door. But if anything I kept from losing my keys OUTSIDE. Our garage is unattached, so it's very unlikely I would find my keys when I need them.

daily workout

I am going to renew my weight loss efforts. I am still exercising on a consistent basis. But it has been a little more sporadic of lately. But I am wanting to renew my efforts. I am feeling the need to step it up lately. So I am trying to make my workouts this week more effective. I started exercising 4 months ago. And I have enjoyed it. My goal when I started was to form a habit of early rising and to just do it 6 days a week. That has been accomplished. ANd I feel good about it b/c when life's challenges came up (like sickness, and vacations) I still got back to everday 'life' and continued on. Somedays I really think I was sleepwalking but I do think it helped. I have not lost a lot of weight but I do feel much better and stronger and I didn't gain. Which for me is a plus. So Now I want to up the goal to myself and i am going to try to rev it up this week and workout HARDER I think I will thank myself later -I hope.

Conferance

I can't wait for conferance tomorrow. It is the high light of my week. I have been thinking of it all week and I can't wait. This year seems a little more highly anticipated than normal. But I have lots of plans with being with my family on this particular weekend. I also will be making Picallili sauce tomorrow as well as some green tomato salsa! I am even going to try some pickled green tomatoes. The lady at Robert's work swears by them. And I had never even heard of them!! But i have a TON of green tomatoes from the garden and so I am going to get adventurous and use them up!! We ate fried green tomatoes today for lunch and I liked them, but I'm not so sure that the kids were diggin' it. SO I am excited for the other sauces though. They are good on sandwiches (so are the pickled tomatoes) and the picallili sauce on crackers and meat. Apparantly in other parts of the nation it is considered a staple. I suppose like ketchup is at my house :-) !! So why not give it a try? The canning season is almost over. And I have yet to do applesauce. I'm getting a little nervous my trees didn't produce hardly any apples and the people who were going to give me some didn't end up with extra either. So I will make do. I guess. Also, a new concept was addressed to me today.And that is paying tithing on your garden. I think we'll start to do that. I had never heard of it before and was very intrigued. But I did think Ignorance is bliss and now that I know I will have to do better. So I guess this applies!! But really I am happy to do it since paying 1/10th is better than paying for the whole thing. ANd I would like the Lord to continue his blessings, soooooooooo............I think this is what we need to do.I hope all your conferance weekends go well. We're watching movie tonight so I've gotta go-bye'

Crazy

I had a crazy mother moment today. Just ask my kids. They wouldn't keep the door shut (and its cold outside). SO after they left (and I had yelled for the door to be shut, about a thousand times) I went ahead and locked it. (Both front and back doors were opened, so I locked them both) The kids took a few minutes to figure it out, and then I just said nope you can't come in. I needed a few minutes, and I wanted them to shut the door. And not for me to have to remind them every time. After all the cold air is just breezing on in. So by the time they were allowed in they were much more contrite, and amazed at this particular approach. besides the fact that they were a little chilled. And bored out there..Since I made them stay out they didn't want to be there. Although. they have remembered to shut the door the rest of the day. I think the crazy mom is gonna be here for awhile. Well, until at least my husband is done with overtime. It always makes me a little unnerved when he's gone at night. And I don't sleep well b/c of it. He has been working 6-8 hours at night and then 10 during the day. like he comes home at 3:30am sleep until 6:30 am goes to work at 7 am comes home at 7 pm and then goes back to work at night. like around 9:30 pm they are crazy busy at work lately. It makes us both tired. The up side is -the overtime is nice :)

Tempted

I am feeling so tempted lately. I want to go spend, spend, spend. We (Robert and I) have worked really hard to pay off all debts possible. we have no credit card debt, currently. And in a few months the car will be paid off. And we'll almost be home free. With that being said. TOday, I want alot of things. I sure hope my husband is strong enough to withstand my wants. I would love a new living room set TODAY!! I want to order exactly what I want, and I want it all now. I have found what I want and the store is carrying a 3 yr. no payment no interest deal, right now. I know it sounds good. But against everything that we have worked for. SO I 'm not even going to that side of town to avoid it all. The truth is, I have everything I need. The truth is that we have good money coming in, BUT Not so good that I can blow it all (and my budget in a furniture store) I shouldn't add another payment to my bills. SO deep breathe****sigh***** , another *****deep breathe****** And I will move on, hopefully. ANd try not to think about the new shoes I want, and how they will miraculously make me look like I lost 50 lbs. :-) B/c the world will be so caught up looking at my dazzling feet! **giggle** I'll move on to other things, maybe conference is coming just in time for me this year. I probably need to re-evaluate my feelings -just a little.

another day

I think I like the overcast day in a kind of morbid way. It matches my mood of lately. I will have my first Den Meeting today, it's making me a little anxious. For the last week I have been trying to figure why I have been giving this calling so much mental energy. I finally have pin-pointed it-I think!! I love to feel in my element and so I have worked very hard to create that in my daily life. And being a stay at home mom has afforded me that luxury of never feeling on the outs (mostly). Moving hasn't even worried me so much. I like the adventure part of it. But I take resposibility seriously, and I like to have all my bases covered. I enjoy my callings once I can figure it all out. Sooooooooo I just need time to figure this one out too. Actually figuring this part of my personality out this week has helped with the anxiety. Not understanding it all is most confusing! I am warming up to the whole idea. I will probably like it in the end. Of course, after I get it ---in and out!!

busy work

So my DH took a picture of my storage room. And the canning shelves. I thought I would give you all a sneak peak at what I have spent my time on lately. I do think the jars are pretty. I like all the colors!

My brother and his family were here this weekend. It was a blast to see them and have them here. The kids all had fun! and This mom had fun visiting with them, also. We are adjusting to the fall like weather. I think it's awesome on one hand and on the other I think it is bitter sweet to the fun summer weather. Any way, I am feeling anxious for the holiday season this year. Why is that? It seems like I probably shouldn't even be thinking about it yet. But I am. And I feel uncertain about the future. I'm not sure why. Maybe it's PMS. who know........

Robert has been super busy at work and I haven't seen him much lately. I think he is feeling alot of pressure that way, (from work) But we are excited that he will be getting ready for the testing phase of his process of being an architect. hope all is well. bye

Callings!

This last Sunday I received a new calling. It's a little BITTER sweet. I can't decide if I'm more bitter than sweet. I am the new Den Leader in Cub Scouts. I was a CTR 8 teacher in the Primary. I didn't really enjoy that last calling. But I think it worked well with my schedule at the time. But the problem is, the boys I already know. I taught them all in Primary for the last 2 years. And they were a major pain in the Butt!!! I was looking forward to being able to get out of that calling (when the time came). But now I am with them all again. *sigh* So I will make the best of it. I have had several meetings this week and I think (?) I am making sense of all the madness. I like the people I will be working with. That is a definite perk. But I am sooooooooo nervous about the rest. My Mom says that it will be better. (She appartanly had this calling once, and she grew to really like it) So I have high hopes that I will, too. And who knows, maybe I'll grow to like the freak of nature shirt the scouts have to wear!! :) *giggle** No, really, it is a good change. I was ready. Now I just need to think positive to conquer this next challenge, -right?????

Halloween!!

'Nuff said!

Correction

I thought I would make it clear about what time our church is. We have 1pm church. But our sacrament meeting is last so it makes it 3pm sacrament. I thought I would clarify that for some of you. It still sucks. And if the world was run by me (the powers at be, haven't called yet) i would change it. The people around here don't know what they are missing with Sacrament being first. It's alot more reverant. The kids are still fresh and on good behavior! So it has been somewhat of a challenge with the kids. We have had to really work on the kids behavior and my 5 yr. old (Ian) has made us enforce some pretty imaginative strategies to teach him some good manners in the whole sacrament thing. Well have a good day all. Bye'

Toddler

I just wanted to add that today at church my 3 yr. old was a little crazy, well........for that matter so was the 18 month old. They were all over the place. Neither had their afternoon nap so by sacrament meeting they were CRAZY!!! (Our sacrament starts at 3pm) we were a little late in finding a seat and since a new bishopric was being put in ,the ward had turned out all the spectators that don't usually come to church. So in essence my point is we had to sit in the back. On the metal chairs. Which is bad news for my crew. They always seem to be a little out of control in the back. And it echoes and it seems more noisy. So Robert had Alexa and I had Brock and he seemed to calm down and was doing ok. So during the sacrament prayer I made the cardinal mistake. I trusted that the 3 yr old would be good. I peeked during the prayer to 'check' on him and he was gone! So I frantically look around and realize that he has climbed the folding chair rack and is hanging up side down on it!! The big one in the gym that is 2 tiered, and half empty at this point! Yes, Very Dangerous. So I made the mad dash to grab him off of it and he starts to yell because he was having fun. About that time Alexa was losing it and I look at my husband and we seriously wonder 'what are we doing?' And Alexa then yells, I poopie. Which the sweet dear was entirely correct on. She had a serous major blowout! and so Robert left to change her and he took Brock too. I was done with them at that point. Which my very endearing husband missed the new Bishopric being put in and when he came back later he had to be informed. And it even will affect him a little since the Elder's Quorum Pres. was put in the new Leadership. (Robert is a counselor) So we will wait this week to see who will be in the next Elder's leadership. Hope all of your Sunday's went well. Bye'

NEW LINK

Check out this new Link, Because I said so.... This woman is hilarious. And I think we can all relate to her. She apparantly has a book coming out and she'll be on NBC to promote it. But she is just an every day gal. With 6 kids. ANd no she's not mormon. But she has an amazing amount of comments. like 600!!! I know crazy. So far I'm just a lurker there. but she really is funny. She talks about her every day life as a stay at home mom. And i love to read her very real life!! The comments that are left can be pretty amazing as well. HAve FUn!!

creativity and mice

So I am feeling creative today. I'm itching to get in the kitchen and make a new sauce. I think I'm going for a Chutney of some sort. I haven't ever made one before and I think it would be fun to try. I am also thinking of some Plum Sauce (the chinese flavored kind). I love to try out the new recipes. My girlfriend is making some Piccalilli sauce, and it sounds intriguing. I was recently given some more pint size jars and so I am dying to fill them with great things. I also think I will be doing some 3 bean salad. Perfect in the Pint size, since the whole family doesn't eat it-Just me!! I have a lot of ideas that I want to try out and I'm afraid I will run out of time!

Brynlee has her informative talk today! She chose to give it on Wolverines. We have learned more than I ever thought I would ever learn about this animal. I hope she does well and we will be going down to her PACE school to see her give it. GOOD LUCK Brynlee!!

Side note: Last night I woke up to a weird sound and I couldn't place it. I thought At first that Ian was tossing and turning and I could hear him getting up. So I got up and checked the boys and they were fast asleep. So I stood in the doorway of my bedroom and I could hear the sound again. And To my greatest fear it was a Mouse in the linen closet. So I was petrified. I ran to my bed (lest it ran from under the door and actually touched me!) And sat there listening to this 'noise'. I finally woke Robert and told him that a mouse was in the linen closet and that we had better get it. So he gets up and stands in the doorway and says "are you sure it's in there? or is it in the coat closet?" And I say no, stand in the hallway you can hear it! so he turns on the light-and starts to laugh. Brynlee had wrapped a present for a friend the other day and left the wrapping paper in my room and the ceiling fan was moving the paper to make the 'sound of a mouse'. (it had finally worked the roll loose enough to wiggle in the wind) So I said as regally as I could, Thank you for "catching" the mouse and I rolled over and pretended to go to sleep. I think my husband had a good ol' chuckle.

Broken Toe?

So, the ball on my big toe is killing me. I woke up to walk the other morning and couldn't bear to put weight on it. That was 5 days ago now. I am now hobbling around. Popping Ibuprophen like it was candy and that doesn't even seem to be helping much. It's not just that it can't take weight, it won't roll like it's supposed to when you walk. So I wonder now, Do you think I have like a stress fracture or something? My girlfriend seemed to think it could be with all the standing for canning and errands and such. I just feel like an idiot with all of the hobbling around and stuff. But I didn't want to go to the doctor for it. We are just starting to pay off all of the DR.'s in our life and now all the dentists too. So I wasn't willing to add to the bill. But if this keeps up I may be forced too. Or maybe a few days off my feet would fix the problem? I have always had a hard time with the wood floors and tile in our house. I didn't know before we moved in that I was so dependant on carpet and that lovely pad underneath it. The hard surface all day has killed my feet. I used to live barefooted and since the house I live in thongs or shoes for the cushioning. Sooooooooo, maybe I'm just a pansy? Just a thought.

Full day

So I totally sluffed off all my work today. It wasn't planned. But it was fun. I had grand plans. And they started at Walmart early in the morning to start all my errands for the day. ANd I ran in to some friends of ours who were on there way to Shelley Spud Days, I had never heard of it and so we decided to go, too. Appartantly Shelley is on the map for Spud Days. It's kinda funny, they mix potatoes in a cement truck and have all sorts of 'potato' activities as well as the usual fair kind of stuff. The kids did have a blast though. Brynlee and Jade climbed the rock wall and Ian and Brock did the super slide as well as Brock riding the kiddie train. They really did have fun. We were a little late in arriving so we missed the free spud dinner and ended up feeling cheated by the corn dog booth for having to pay $3 for a stupid corndog that my lovely son was DYING to have and vowed to never eat again if he didn't get it! And I wasn't up to the fight so I thought hey, is this worth $3? Even though the corndog isn't worth $3 saving a fight was. Anyway, this shin-dig gets like 10,000 people to it and even people from Utah and California come to this thing-CRAZY! I wanted to see what I was missing so I won't be the only one who hasn't experienced 'SPud Days' . Tonight is Robert's AIA BBQ (he didn't come with us to Shelly) He's been prepping for it all day. Shopping and setting up for it. So hopefully it turns out for him and we all enjoy it. On a side note. Brynlee is going to her first pay job-babysitting tonight! I can't believe it. I have complete faith in her. But I can't believe she is old enough for it.:) She is very excited and I think she will be really excited for the money. She has been saving for a new Tamagotchi-she wants the V4. (She only has the V3) so i think she'll be able to get it now! So take care all and we'll talk to you later.

IDP

My husband officially finished his IDP today!!! YEA!!!!!!!!! This has been a long time coming. We're so very excited. and I am especially proud of my man today. For those of you that didn't know, IDP stands for Intern Development Program. IT is was the next step after finishing the Master's program and had to be completed to become an architect. This process is from 3-5 years. We know many interns who have taken 7-8 years to accomplish. So we are feeling very blessed to be done. He graduated in the spring of 2003. So now it is a waiting game for NCARB to process the paper work. Possibly up to 6 months for this next part. And then he can start taking tests. (there are 9) to finally become licensed. This has been a hard road and suprisingly a very fulfilling one. Although, at many times it has been tough. I am very proud of him. And now he is officially a member of the AIA. And he is even heading up an AIA event in Idaho Falls tomorrow. If any of you knew my husband 10 years ago, you would know that he is a very differant person. And I think he has come a long way. So Congratulations, Robert!! We're cheering for you.!!

Fall

I am really starting to enjoy the fall. I love it that it is just a bit cooler outside. Although, getting up at 5:30 is starting to get really cold. I am trying to stay outside as long as I can but I think the days will be numbered. We'll see if I last past October. Anyway, This is the first year that I have had kids in school that I haven't volunteered for anything (at the school) I decided that we all needed a break. And I wouldn't do it this year. I feel slightly guilty about it. But I honestly think it will be for the best. I have enjoyed the kids being gone all day. I enjoy them when they come home! We have lots of homework at our house in the evenings, as well as the varied activities. So I am feeling the pressure to have more things done BEFORE they arrive home. I know that this sounds pretty cut and dry, but it isn't. It can be hard with the work load to get absolutly everything done before 2:30PM. I am trying out a few new things this fall. Like the canning. I have never done this quantity before. Also, some new implementation of the household cleaning and such. With laundry and all that. I feel like I need to up the pace a bit. At the end of my pregnancy with Alexa I had been on bedrest for nearly 6-7 weeks. so I was very behind when she was born. And then the whole newborn thing. So it is only now that I am catching my breathe and forging ahead-I think! So good luck to me and the new fall/school year I hope to have in the Fehrenbacker home!!

Post number 50!!

I know, I know I'm sure none of you care about the fact that this is post #50. But it's cool to me. Today was a tough day for my Jade. She was a trooper though. In the night she awoke crying and telling me that her tooth hurt. (Not a good sign) So we gave her some medicine and off to bed she went. She was up every 3 hours with the pain of it. So the next morning I called our Dentist and got her in. Well we're informed that she has to get a root canal. (Boy was I a little suprised because it was a tooth that already had a filling in it) (So now we are going to pay to repair that thing twice!!) Anyway, The clencher was that because of her age we were going to need to go to the Endodontics Specialist. And that they don't have one in our Network here in Idaho Falls. Sooooooooooo, after we went over and had the procedure done-Which I want to add, that she was the BEST patient ever. She hardly ever complained even though the poor thing was crying and that the Dr. was very impressed since she did better than all of his Adult patients!! So anyway, we worked it out with our insurance (I think-or hope) and we did pay a HUGE chunk today, but I think it is taken care of! But to top it all off. This office wasn't made for families. and not kids at all. No TV in the waiting room and no Toy basket. But I think by the time I left I was a basket case. Brock and Alexa were wired in there. They kept running around trying to blow in all the fancy vases and brock kept yelling "Mom. that is a HUGE plate," I would say, "Yes, it is-don't touch" as he would be reaching for it. Both the kids kept trying to climb the couches and jump off. Or from couch to couch. Finally the secretary came out and brought me some crayons and coloring books. But they just fought over the "green one" and Alexa was eating all the crayons. So I finally just gave them back. They were so busy the other couple in the room commented. How cute they were. But boy did they keep you busy. And I waited for almost an hour and then called Robert and said. That he needed to come get them on his lunch and feed'em and put em' to bed and I would be along in the next millenium or two-hehehehe. But it all worked out. I think. I sure hope my Jade gets to feeling better and that she has NO MORE teeth issues. She is a great trooper though. So here's to recovery!!!!

trip

So we're back. After a very quick trip to Utah. We went down to Robert's work party. It was a blast. We actually had a hotel reservation. We went through Priceline.com which would be ok had we understood everything. Priceline upgraded our reservation which would be ok normally b/c we ended up with the Hilton. Yep, that's right! We got a great deal on a Hilton room, if we could have stayed in it! When we called to confirm they informed up that they have a 5 person room limit. And they wouldn't allow the kids to stay with us. Unless we got another room. This time without a discount. $167 a room is what they had available. Well that wasn't in the budget considering we had already paid for a room! So I called my brother and they were more than happy to help up out! THANK YOU LEE AND ASHLY!!! so they were a life saver. Actually the money for the room went completely wasted. No refund, no transferance for dates-nothing. And we didn't even use it. And Lee and Ashly are currently trying to sell their home and I was trying to save them headache with us there, but we came anyway and it all worked out!!We went to the 'This is the place monument' -very cool. This place is a recreation of the pioneers down town Salt Lake. And they had all sorts of fun activities for the kiddies. They had pony rides, pioneer crafts, train rides through the park and many other fun things to do. I think it was worth our money. Lots of the activities were all included in the entry fee (which is very cool) and we spent like 4 hours there. But easily could have spent more. The kids learned alot and we all had fun as well. SO everyone consider going there next time when your up by Parley's Canyon in Utah!
I did come home with a head cold but i think I may be starting to conquer that one, too! Oh, and an update. We bought Ian new shoes, I couldn't bear him walking out in Public with mismatched shoes. and the thongs weren't gonna cut it this trip. Soooooooo, new shoes, And I HOPE we find the other ones!!

Shoe Bandit

The Fehrenbacker household has now sunk to new lows. It is a sad day for me. My son Ian couldn't find his school shoes this morning. We were up early. I exercised at 5:30 home by 6:45. kids up, breakfast done and all homework ready to go. It was going great, Until shoe time. Ian is always taking his shoes off. It has become a burden. A very irritating, stupid burden. He has hot feet so every chance he gets he takes them off. He also doesn't pay attention to where that may be. Last night our family went to pick apples. We didn't get home until 9pm and the kids went immediatly off to bed. Ian put on pajamas and went straight to bed. This morning we found one shoe in the living room and I looked for a whole hour and couldn't find the other one. So here is the rub. It's raining today and his only other option is either snow boots, or church shoes. And I was afraid the church shoes would be ruined in the rain. SOooooooo..........Ian wore one new shoe and one old shoe from last year to school. The old one is horridly ugly, and worn out. It also is on the wrong foot. Because of course we could only find two shoes for the left foot. It's so embarrassing!! I never thought I would be THAT mother. I can't believe it. We have to do a paper route today and we have dental appointments. ANd all in mismatched shoes!!! I really can't figure out were that shoe went. The only thing I can decide is the shoe bandit came in the night. (My mother used to say things like that growing up, and I always thought she was overreacting---but now I am rethinking her theories! I guess I have come full circle-sadly enough!) So I always thought I was more organized than this. I have a 5th grader and a 3rd grader and they have always managed to pull it together. Hair fixed and all (they are girls) But maybe that's why! Is this a boy vs. girl thing? Do girls care more so they try harder? Not sure. I do hope he has a good day, And I'm really praying that no one notices, After all it is 1st grade...............who am I kidding, they'll all notice! So I guess I hope his peers don't really care, I mean it is first grade, right! Anyone want to weigh in on this?

Lazy day

So today is a more lazy day and I think I am really ready for it. I have a request for a salsa recipe and I think I will post it here for all to see. this particular one calls for cilantro -I love cilantro, so Lisa if it isn't what you like I have another one that I can let you try. This one is from my Aunt Vanae. It is good fresh, canned or even frozen. (I have done all three). This looks like a big batch but it only does 4-6 pints. Depending upon the size of your tomatoes and such. So good Luck with it!!

Aunt Vanae's Salsa

1 large bell pepper
20 roma tomatoes (or what ever you got!)
2 large onions
2 bunches cilantro
4 large garlic cloves
8 jalepeno peppers (the seeds are the hottest part, so if you add them it will be really spicy. I usually put them aside add the pepper, and then add the seeds as you taste it while cooking, until it is at it's desired level of 'hot'. Use latex or rubber gloves to avoid burning of fingers ect.)
1/4 c. Lemon juice
2 T. ground basil
3 cans tomato sauce (I sometimes just add 1 or 2 depending upon my mood and the flavor I want)
Salt to taste
Blend everything in food processor. (I don't have one so I just chop by hand, or you can use the blender, I have done that too, it will be a runnier salsa and less chunky, so you pick). Heat until barely heated. Then can or freeze or eat. If canning put in a water bath for 20 minutes. Makes about 1 gallon.

Now, I have measured out what I do and I add 8 tsp. salt and 1/3 c. sugar. Personally, this is what I like. You can add or take away spices. You cannot change the lemon juice as it is important for the canning process to have the proper PH balance to prevent spoiling. Spices can always be changed or played with a little. And I do 'play' with the whole tomato sauce thing. b/c I think it tastes better or more 'fresh' if I don't add it-But suit yourself!!!

47 Pints

WOW!! I did 47 pints this weekend. I feel awesome! I did salsa (3 kinds), soup stock, sweet pickle relish, and pickled beets. So I feel alot better with the shelves downstairs a little fuller. I am not as overwhelmed with all that is to be done. Now that a little more is accomplished, I feel better with the to-do list knocked down a little. So tomorrow I am doing one more batch of sweet pickle relish and 1 more batch of salsa. That may be it for the salsa and pickle stuff. I still have beets in my garden so that will make one more batch yet to do. I would love to do whole tomatoes canned, frozen corn, and frozen carrots. And one more batch each of peaches and pears and applesauce and then I think that I will be done with this canning season-YEA!!!
Now I'm off to bed so I can start another day-hopefully I am able to get alot done even with Alexa and Brock home.
oh yea, I wanted to tell about Brock's prayers tonight. he is so cute these days. He is now praying that the 'spiders' won't get him at night. He didn't know that spiders can actually bite you until today. Boy did that information actually scare him. His face went white and he had a wide eyed look about him. But I had his full attention. and he really was interested in all the spider traps in the house. so hopefully the kid isn't to scared to sleep and will forget all about this by tomorrow. 'bye.

Sexy Shoes!!

I got some new ones! I love these. They are a wedge heal sandal type shoe. I have been looking for a shoe like this for the past year. I think I now have "sexy" feet. haha. At least something is sexy these days! But seriously, they make me taller too. And that is a perk. I'm only 5'4" so I need all the help I can muster. We went to the movies on Friday and I kept looking down to check out my feet. Robert laughed at me the whole time. :) We went and saw the Bourne Ultimatum. I think I have a new favorite movie. It was awesome. I think my husband was giddy the whole time. Besides I think that it is such a 'smart' movie. And I love that about it. My all time favorite movie of lately is Seven Brides for Seven Brother's. This movie has me so engrossed as of late. The girls have seen it 4 times in the alst 3 days. They love it too. Even though Jade was asking me what 'courtin' was. That was a funny conversation. Anyway. I think I love the oldest brother's voice. It is so dreamy.......................Enough of that. What's funny in the movie is that some of those songs couldn't be released today and have the same meaning. Robert and I were talking about this. Like the song about the men having to sleep with the sheep. I don't know that people would be able to have that kind of song out now and have it be as innocent as it is in this movie. Brynlee asked us why not? is the music to low to sing? So apparantly, the good thing is-she didn't understand why. And I think as a mother-I am ok with that!!


I'm canning salsa today. I 'm doing two kinds. (today) My Aunt Vanae's salsa recipe which we love and another one from the net. So I hope we will be happy with them. Next week I am going to do some Zucchini salsa. This stuff is so good. And you can't even tell it is zucchini. It tastes and looks the same as normal salsa. So I think it will be a good use of the vegetable. This year I didn't want my salsa to have so much liquid in it so I strained off some of the juice and I'm canning that alone to use as soup base. I am very excited for that alone. I think that all the peppers and onions and seasoning will taste very 'yummy' when the time comes to eat some plain ol' vegetable soup!!

Cabin Fever

I have it bad, Cabin Fever that is. It is demolishing my motivation. I think I just need to get it over with and go do something. I am hoping Robert and I can catch the new Bourne Ultimatum movie this weekend. I think since we were sick that I haven't been out much since then and I am due for some excitement. We are delivering papers today and we do have Back to school night tonight as well. I can't ever decide if I like these nights. They tend to stress me out a little. But maybe today will be different. I am hoping to grab some neighborhood parents and maybe go get something fun afterwords. 1/2 price appetizers at Applebee's isn't sounding so bad! Just something. I hate all the soliciting that happens at these things. And We have multiple classes to attend. I also think that getting the sitter is a pain in the butt since we aren't allowed to bring the kids. It just seems full of guilt and not very organized as well as the PTO in full force. (those people absolutly drive me bonkers!!!!) Sorry to any of my friends who are in the PTO. I guess you get to see my true colors!!! anyway enough complaining. Hope all of you are having a great day!!

I've been Tagged!!

The fun middle-name game!

1. You have to post these rules before you give the facts.

2. Players, you must list one fact that is somehow relevant to your life for each letter of their middle name. If you don’t have a middle name, use the middle name you would have liked to have had.

3. When you are tagged you need to write your own blog-post containing your own middle name game facts.

4. At the end of your blog-post, you need to choose one person for each letter of your middle name to tag. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

Ok, hear goes.
I don't have a middle name so I guess I need to make one up. Growing up I always asked my mom why I didn't have one and among the many reasons why she did tell me once that if I were to have a middle name it probably would have been Kaye. Since I have a younger cousin named Kay I though that this was a little weird and when I asked my Mom about it she also thought that it was interesting. Now, I will stop rambling on and on and oh yea! anyway, I will use this "middle" name for lack of anything else to use. Although I sectely wished I had a 'beautiful' name to tell people. I think that is why all my girls have middle names..............


K- karate. I have always, secretly wanted to learn Karate. I know it's random.
A- avon. I love to buy stuff out of the little books. I like the lotion. and I like the shampoo and conditioner...........I love to get the package later on when they deliver to you.
Y- yelling. I do it to much! My poor kids. I think I yell to blow steam sometimes.............
E-everyone. I love people. I love to talk to people. I love to get out and see people. You get the point!

Now I tag Lisa, Tanya, Ashly, and Arin!