Merry Christmas!!!

The Platt Letter
UPDATE ON THE PAST YEAR
Christmas 2008

Family Forecast
↑ Family Size -25% growth in ‘08
← Location -Over 400 miles away from where we were
↑ Vehicles -Up one motorcycle
☺ Adult:Kid Ratio -Kids up by 1!
↑ Male:Female Ratio -Female #’s take a dive
↑ Scars on Gabe’s face -200% growth in ‘08

Our newest addition arrived on January 19th, and we can’t imagine life without Jacob Ephraim. You might think that he’d be crawling by now, but no – he’s a scooter. He’s perfectly content to shimmy his way around to get his hands on any desired object. With two big brothers, he can really make some noise if something he wants is taken away, but most of the time, he’s full of smiles and giggles that delight the whole family.

Since moving, Gabe’s gained two new scars and a chipped tooth. Both revolve around rowdy playing with Jonathan and one resulted in 7 stitches, a trip to the ER, and a full paycheck’s bill! But it doesn’t stop him! He keeps chasing Jonathan. Gabe is the funnest little snuggler, content to fall asleep with your arms around him, holding at least one hand. He loves watching “shows” of any kind, eating “treats”, and pretending to be Scooby with his older brother Shaggy, to whom he calls out, “Shaggy!!!!!! …Are you????”.

And Shaggy, that is Jonathan, has just completed half a year of preschool, where he informed me that he’s reminded to turn his voice box off. He loves going to school, unless Daddy’s home and he fears he’ll miss out on some fun “tool-containing” project. He is convinced that Daddy should quit his job and just work with his tools and his favorite helpers. Jonathan really enjoys scripture study and primary. He begs for the chance to do more chores and help mom around the house (that is, if Dad’s gone, and nothing “fun” is going on!). He’s always saying things that surprise his mom to tears.

In May, we sold our house in Wyoming, and bought a new home in Idaho around the middle of July. In the interim, we lived with Cynthia’s parents. With the money from the sale of our old home, we were able to make some cost-efficient changes like new windows and roof insulation, and a much needed shed for Garrett, who was used to having a whole garage to himself. We were also able to pay off most of our debt and we feel incredibly blessed.

Garrett works just down the street at the local hospital on the med-surg floor. Things are a lot busier here, but he, as always, remains dedicated to supporting our growing family. When he returns home from a long day at work, the boys scream in delight and Cynthia’s internal delight is almost as loud. His days off are filled with projects, family, and fun! Garrett bought a motorcycle this fall and is looking forward to the upcoming summer of bike rides and fishing! He blesses our family with his thought-filled and careful decision-making skills.

Cynthia keeps herself busy as a Sunbeam teacher, part-time employee in pscho-social rehabilitation, and full-time mother. As she watches the kids grow and learn and change, there are mixed emotions. It’s such a joy to see them learn new things; yet, it’s with the realization that these days won’t go on forever, but are literally once in a lifetime. Being a mother is so rewarding and fulfilling!

At this Christmas season, we express our gratitude for the Savior, His example, and the Atonement. These gifts are what makes life so meaningful. On top of this grand blessing, we are so grateful for family and friends. Our lives are so rich and full and we owe all this to a loving Heavenly Father.

Merry Christmas! May your holidays be wonderful.

Yours Very Truly,
Garrett, Cynthia, Jonathan, Gabe, & Jacob
The Platt Family

P.S. This letter is formatted after the Kiplinger Letter. When Garrett’s brother Joseph left on his mission, he explained that he didn’t want huge long letters, but just the highlights. So, this letter is dedicated to Elder Joseph in the Knoxville Tennessee mission! We are so proud of him, as well as Cynthia’s youngest sister, Stephanie, in the Adelaide Australia mission! They are such good examples for our boys!

Happy 6-Month B-Day Bradyn!

The middle of this year – It was June twenty-third.
Some quite exciting news, from our Brandon was heard.
He and Mandi had just had their third baby boy.
Since they were first married, their lives had tripled in joy.

First Corbin, then Hadley – Now Bradyn was here,
And all of our family let out three loud cheers!
But in the excitement (Our move didn’t help)
Bradyn didn’t get a poem – and truly bad I’ve felt.

But today is 6 months since he was first born
And it sure is reason to toot another horn!
So your Happy Birthday poem has finally arrived
And we happ’ly add you to our fam’ly list with pride!

1 Silly Boys and 4 Happy Jacob's

Jonathan and Gabe are laying inside our closet....Interesting!
Jacob's had ear infections and has been teething. While I was getting things done, these two darling men fell asleep together.

Jacob at Grandma's house!

Jacob in the tub (look at the smile and then imagine taking him out of the tub ;{

He knows what toys his brothers love - Gabe was sleeping and Jonathan was at school, so he knew he had a monopoly on the toys. YEEHAW!

Playing in the Snow with Dad!

Garrett's showing me that Gabe's been eating snow with his shovel. Yum! Yum!
Here's the boys on the 4-wheeler with Garrett! What good-looking guys!

Here's the boys getting all dressed up to go outside! Since then, Gabe's been living in his boots. We have to insist that he put them away to go to bed!

Pre-Christmas Highlights!

We took a weekend to go and see my grandparents - The kids loved it as you can see! It was wonderful. Jonathan got to hear Grandpa explain about each of his tools. They loved the new toys - toys I played with as a child. And, Jacob had lots of new things to check out!
This is also at Grandma and Grandpa's - my family will recognize the afgan in the background.
I believe that Gabe is trying to tickle Jacob...

Before going up to my grandparents' house, we hung out at my parents house and played with cousins. This picture shows Sarah, Gabe and Katie.

From the other direction, Katie, Brooke, Jonathan, Rachel and the backs of Sarah and Gabe.

And this is my stockings! Aren't they cute. My friend Marci (a kindred spirit) let me have a copy of the pattern and helped me with the tags. My mom helped me pick out some material, but I sewed it all. I'm quite pleased. The boys picked out their material (from a pre-chosen bunch of fabrics). I have material for another in case we end up needing to hang another sock someday... (this is not an announcement!).

Christmas Tag!

50 Question on Christmas

1. Does your family send out Christmas cards? Yes, but we sure aren't going to get to it this year!

2. How soon do you start shopping? Oh, maybe on December 1st

3. Who do you shop for? Mostly the kids, but parents, and one of Garrett's siblings (whoever's name we have for the year - this year it's Uncle Joseph)

4. Do you put up a Christmas tree? Yes, meaning I put the decorations on with the kids after Garrett gets the tree up with the beautiful lights

5. If so, is it fake or real? It's definitely not pretend, but it's not from a forest, just a store.

6. Do you like tinsel? It looks nice on other people's trees, but I don't want to mess with it.

7. Do you use homeade or storebought ornaments? Both, some of the bulbs are store bought that we got when we were first married, but the rest are just a hodge-podge of random ones that we've been given.

8. Do you put Christmas lights outside your house? I don't think we have since we were first married, but we did this year and thanks to us living on a corner, we got lots of compliments (way to go, Garrett!!!).

9. Do you put lights on the tree? Once again, yes, meaning my husband did (and they look fantastic!)

10. How about popcorn and cranberries? Well....we eat popcorn and I've been making myself fresh cranberry juice (pretty tart!, but very good for me!)

11. Is there a wreath hanging on your door? No, it wouldn't fit, so Garrett's got it hanging on the wall.

12. Do you celebrate it? Do I celebrate the wreath??? I don't understand the question....

13. Do you hang up your stocking? Yes, yes, yes - I made my own Christmas stockings this year and they look terrific! In the past, we've had storebought ones, but then, on Christmas morning, we filled up some other more stuffable stockings!

14. Does your family read "Twas the night before Christmas?" We read a book of Christmas stories the month of December and I believe that "Twas the night before Christmas" may be one of them, but I'm not sure.

15. Favorite Christmas Movie? I have always loved Miracle of 34th Street

16. Favorite Character from any Christmas Movie? I love my brother's rendition of Jimmy Stewart freaking out after he gets his life back....truly classic!

17. Favorite Christmas Song? Any one of them, if I'm singing with family around the piano.

18. Favorite Christmas Memory? Surprising my parents w/my scholarship to USU by wrapping it and tossing it under thetree.

19. Give or Receive? Honestly, I love both.

20. Eggnog or Cider? I detest store-bought eggnog and salmonilla poisening ruins my family recipe for homemade eggnog; I'd have to agree with Necha, Wassail is the way to go!

21. Red or Green? Green is my favorite color, but I love the red and green together for Christmas.

Ham or Turkey? I love those spiral hams for Christmas.

Star or Angel? Star, but I do believe in angels (but I want the star at the top of my tree!)

White Lights or Colored Lights? We have colored lights, but I just love any lights.

25. Blinking Lights or Still Lights? We have still lights - I prefer them!

26. Were you Naughty or Nice this year? Probably some of both, but I will make new year's resolutions to be nicer next year (as always).

27. What do you want for Christmas this year? I'm getting the one thing I wanted, which is a guitar; however, my true excitement lies in seeing my boys' faces as they open their gifts!

28. When do you open your gifts? Usually one on Christmas Eve and the rest on Christmas day, but this year, Garrett's got to work Christmas, so we'll be opening most of the presents on the 26th, but the kids won't care as they don't know the difference.

29. What's the best gift you've ever gotten? I don't know - probably the lap top my husband got me this year for Mother's Day. It's been the most used gift - I use it all the time, for cooking, cleaning (the music), budgeting, keeping in touch, well, just everything!

30. What's the worst gift you've ever gotten? The thing that comes to mind is the worst gift my sister got - which was a pair of cowboy boots with fringes and frills and Christmas lights that you plug in. It was a gag gift to make fun of the year mom got her these boots for Christmas that were cute, but not her style and she didn't know what to say, but wasn't going to wear them. Really funny!

31. Who gives you the most gifts? Garrett - He is the king of gift giving. He can think of gifts I would love, that I would never even think to ask for!

32. Have you ever had a secret Santa? I think so.

33. Do you like wrapping gifts? Yah - it's fun. I prefer wrapping with someone else, but it's fun either way.

34. Do you put change in those red buckets? Yes, I feel guilty if I don't. This year I let Jonathan do it, so maybe I've started a new life of guilt....

35. Do you burn a yule log? I don't really know what that is....

36. Can you name all the reindeer? Yes, but I have to sing the song.

37. Do you bake cookies? Yes, I'm actually typing with the smell of our latest batches of sugar cookies and chocolate mint browies.

38. Have you ever seen your mommy kissing Santa Clause? No, probably because my dad isn't the Santa Clause type, and my mom doesn't kiss anyone else.

39. Have you ever gotten a kiss under the mistletoe? Not that I can think of.

40. Do you go caroling? I like to sing carols, but I prefer to sing them in warm houses and skip the walking around in the cold, but I have been caroling as a child with my family and for some YW/YM activities.

41. Do you drive around and look at the Christmas lights? We have before, but we haven't this year.

42. Have you ever left Santa cookies? I don't remember ever doing it.

43. Have you ever sat on Santa's lap? Yes, I think so.

44. Who do you celebrate Christmas with? The handsomest man in the world (Garrett) and the three cutest boys to ever live (Jacob, Gabe, and Jonathan).

45. Where do you celebrate Christmas? At my home, wherever that happens to be...

46. Have you ever had a white Christmas? Of course...

47. What part of Christmas do you look most foward to? All the fun things that lead up to Christmas and the anticipation of Christmas morning.

48. Have you ever had your picture taken with Santa? I believe so.

49. Does your family always take a picture at Christmas? We've tried to, but didn't get one this year.

50. What is the meaning of Christmas? Our Stake Presidency has really encouraged us to remember the gift of the atonement during this Christmas holiday. This is the greatest gift. I am so grateful for the Savior, for his birth, his life, his example, and the gift of his atonement. I think Christmas is all about remembering and celebrating that - and hopefully those feelings will stay in our hearts all year long!

I am tagging my family (mine and Garrett's!)...

Happy Birthday Little Sarah!

Shayla was the first one of my sisters to wed.
Our dear David became her new family head.
That was seven years ago from this very day.
Of this stalwart couple, there’s much that I could say.

Instead my poem will tell of a gift that they got
After they’d been married five years on the dot!
For that’s the happy day sweet Sarah did arrive;
And from the start they found, her only gear was “Drive”.

She has this smile that makes both her blue eyes twinkle.
Bringing lots of grins – she’s also caused some wrinkles.
Her parents would n’er complain – They love her little antics.
And all who are around must say that she is quite fantastic!

Today is her birthday – Two years old is she!
And there’ll be more to share before she turns three!
Until then, let’s all sit back and enjoy this darling lass;
And sadly, like all children, she’ll grow up much too fast!

So You Never Thought You'd See Garrett Dance...

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Festival of Trees

Jonathan got to sing with his Preschool class at the local Festival of Trees. It was fun to watch him perform and he was so excited.

If you can pick the three microphones out, there is a little boy who looks like he's singing right into the microphone farthest to the right. Jonathan is to the right of that little boy.

Here's Grandma with the three boys! We had a hard time keeping Jonathan still for the picture.

And this is one very excited little boy!

Catching Up on November

So, to catch up, since I am terribly behind....

This is Uncle Joseph who entered the MTC in the middle of November. I thought it would be good to have a shot where you can see how tall they are compared to their missionary uncle. Then, we'll have an after shot when he gets home to see how much they've grown!
This is handsome little Jacob with Uncle Joseph - His little smile just melts my heart!

This is Jacob - loving the rides every where we go (at least in this shot!)

And this is when the car ride is the most peaceful!

We spent Thanksgiving with Grandma and Grandpa Warnick. If you ask the boys about it, they'd say "Lots of fantastic food and great toys!" I'd have to agree!

Come What May - And Love It!

Elder Worthlin died last night. His last conference address has really impacted me. He quotes his mother as saying - Come What May - And Love It! This has become a favorite saying of mine! I'm sad to hear of his death, but happy to imagine him back with his wife. I'm sure his family here on Earth is really missing him! I'll always remember this last talk of his - and I hope I can always remember to come what may and love it!

Happy Thanksgiving Season!

As Thanksgiving Day is over, but we're still within the realms of the Thanksgiving Weekend, I just want to say Happy Thanksgiving Season!

We were able to go see Grandma and Grandpa down south and spend Thanksgiving with them. We got also see Aunt Diane, Uncle Jerry and their family, as well as Ben and Amanda and Shawn. It was great. Aunt Diane and I won every game of Sequence - we have good combined carma. The food was fantastic - I even got my own special dish of yams, without all those nasty marshmellows on top. I took a little bit of everything and still got very stuffed. My green bean casserole turned out fantastic.

I seem to always get so caught up in the excitement - I always forget to take pictures, so I have nothing to show. That night, I got the turkey blues and was sick almost all day on Friday. However, I revived in time to stop at my parent's home. My boys and Garrett ate dinner with Grandma and Grandpa and David and Shayla and kids (I was still trying to starve away the crud that was making me sick...).

All in all, it was a fun weekend and getting sick helped me finish Deception Point by Dan Brown - which was a facinating fictional book.


I'm so thankful for family and friends - and for my wonderful little boys and the great man who gave them to me! I'm thankful for my knowledge of the Savior and his atoning sacrifice. What a lucky girl I am!

My Music List

Ya - so my wonderful brother Joseph helped me learn how to put music on my blog and I have had more fun than I can say. Just so you know, this music is for me - It's all the songs that I really love and I put them on there, so I can listen to them all day long. I think Garrett's ears are in revolt because he's got his headphones on and is tuning it all out in the bedroom. If some (or most) (or all) of the songs are just plain weird to you.....well, too bad - It's my list! Now, I just need to find out if the list can be too big.....?

Happy Birthday Uncle Aaron!

Late on this night, I’d like to write a poem about a boy
Who never said a single word, but always spread such joy!
In every photograph, you see smiles from ear to ear,
And when his family speaks of him, you’ll see both smiles & tears.

For you see, both smiles & tears come from memories they share
Of all the things he used to do – this child with golden hair.
Playing with the wrapping paper, turning lights off and on,
His love of music even stood his brother’s crazy songs.

Of course, he liked getting into places without locks,
Getting in the stroller to go for walks around the block.
He loved to spin the wheels of bicycles turned upside down,
But he wore the biggest smile when his fam’ly was around.

This poem might make it sound like I knew this boy quite well,
But he died two years before I found his brother’s trail.
I look forward to the day when he and I shall meet;
You can be sure, he’ll be on one of heaven’s front row seats!

Happy Birthday Grandpa Slim!

This poem is dedicated to my Grandpa who turned 94 today. A lot of the wording I use in the poem, comes from a book that was compiled from a lot of his writing. The last two lines of the last stanza come directly from a letter he wrote to his mother after she died while he was serving our country during WWII.


I’ll tell you all a story of a man they nicknamed Slim.
Tho’ the name describes his body, it can’t begin to tell of him.
He never sought attention or the praise of other men.
But his life is so praiseworthy – from the beginning to the end!

Born of humble beginnings – as many great men are
In Eastern Wyoming – where rural was the par!
Second to the youngest – Five brothers and a sis.
Hard work, laughter, lots of fun – a few things from his list!

Although he was quite nervous about his preaching skill,
As has been his habit, he bowed to the Lord’s will.
He served a faithful mission – In those days bygone.
His example blessed his fam’ly; This legacy’s passed on.

After serving Heav’nly Father, Serving country was sure trying.
Eyesight, honesty, and timing prevented army ladder climbing.
Did he enjoy his army time? He’d say “No; Parts were “R rated”.
But with hope, faith, and courage – Temptations were abated.

And blessed he was for those hard times; Blessings his fam’ly now enjoys.
The blessing of his choice in wife, then children - three girls and five boys.
And wonder of wonders for this boy who hated school,
He pursued through to his masters – Proving he was far from “fool”.

I could go on to praise his works, but having loved this humble man,
Unending tributes of his life would be much more than he could stand!
I’m sure he’d want it known – He was not a perfect man.
From his birth to age 94; He just does the best he can!

So here I’ll conclude the end of this great tale,
Adding lessons I learned and then I’ll bid farewell
The first one is that our choices ‘tho often made when we are young
Are the melodies from which the blessings of life are sung.

The other great lesson that he simply taught to me
Is that what makes a man noble or ordinary
Is not the wealth to which he’s born – nor his times of courage & coward,
But the way, no matter what, he keeps on pressing forward.

Thanks for your great example - You’re my hero brave & tall
With great admiration, I affect’nately call you Grandpa.
And when my time comes to pass on to the next life
Of the people I will search are you and your dear wife.
And I too will live my life so you both may proudly say,
“She, too, is our family”. This I sincerely pray!

I love you Grandpa!

Happy Birthday Grandma Doreen!

The fairy tales all talk ‘bout wicked stepmothers
And how she always wants whatever’s best for her.
Almost four months ago, we got our first step mom
I must confess the truth – That she is just the BOMB.

From the first time we met, she eas’ly disappears.
And when she’s fine’ly found, each mothers’ heart gives cheers.
For playing with the kids, she seems to have a knack
While the adults are talking – The kids don’t feel the lack.

Doing dishes – cleaning up
In the background she is found
And she seems to do it all
Without one complaining sound.

She’s kind and caring – full of love
She cared for us all right away.
So of this stepmom stereotype
I must raise my voice and say.
If this is what a stepmom’s like
We’ll take her any day!

Happy Birthday Grandma Doreen!!
Thanks for all your selfless efforts on your birthday weekend!

Happy Birthday David!

Since we started getting married in my family.
We've added 1 sweet sister and brothers-in-law three.
The first male addition became Shayla's spouse
Dating & then marriage;
They went on to "playing house".

Of Shayla's smiley David, there's so much I could say.
And now I have the chance, for today is his birthday!
So what's first on the list of all that I can share...?
Well - David's mighty handsome -
With that wave of sandy hair!

But he doesn't stop with looks!
He's got qualities most rare.
He's truly a great teacher
And it's the gospel he loves to share.
As crazy as it sounds, He dosn't seem to mind.
Living close to in-laws. To each, he is so kind!

The thing I noticed first when Shayla's "friend" I met.
David grins from ear to ear - A smile you can't forget!
Getting to know David, you learn that he will fight.
He has determination for what he knows is right.

David, your'e amazing - a strong example for my life.
I'm glad you chose my sister to be your loving wife!

Happy Birthday David!
We hope you have a fantastic day!

Jonathan's Silly Speech

While my mom and dad were here, they drove Jonathan to church. On the way, he let out a long string of jibberish and mom said, "Jonathan, you're being silly." To which he responded, "I'm not silly - I'm speaking Spanish." So, our family is now up one linguist!

My Birthday - and NOW I'm in Training

Well - My birthday was wonderful! My boys got me wonderful gifts which included new bed-time slippers and new left-over containers, which were greatly needed! My parents came over for the weekend and also go to see Jonathan give a part in his first Primary program. It was wonderful. I got some fun calls from family. And Jonathan said he's so glad that I'm 25.

Now - for my next birthday, I promised my mother I would be able to do a flip on the trampoline. She doesn't seem to recognize that it was an "under-age" promise and is not legally binding. However, she is my mother, so I will begin a year of intense training of body and bladder so I can do a flip without making a fool of myself.

If I die next year on my birthday, you'll all know who to blame....

Halloween Costumes

Here's my parent's grandchildren all dressed up for Halloween. Jonathan is the cowboy on the left. Gabe is the scarecrow on the right. Jacob is the little puppy on the bottom row on the right.
And here's a little family picture. I'm the girl.

Happy Birthday Amanda!

I’d like to pause ‘midst all the chaos
As the Halloween excitement starts
And send a Happy Birthday note
To a woman who’s off the charts

She’s the youngest girl in Garrett’s family.
Claiming to be spoiled – but this I do not see!
She’s faced trials that would be difficult to bear
If they’d been mine I’m sure I’d have even more grey hair.

But she continues darling and lovely as ever.
And as to giving up…..I know that she would never.
For though she looks sweet, I can tell you surely…
She’s got inner strength that makes her spirit burly.

She’s the kind that’s made from head to toe of stuff
That gives her strength when life gets really tough.
It’s this strength that she’ll pass on to her little Vince.
Something he can count when things just don’t make sense.

Amanda,
You and your family mean so much!
Thanks for always staying in touch!
We had a blast when you came to stay.
You’re welcome each and ever day.

May your birthday week be filled with smiles, hugs and fun
The coming year of great things has only just begun!

Happy Birthday Joseph!

Today is the birthday of my only brother
The only boy born to my only mother.
Here’s a secret that he would call “dirty”.
For my little brother has reached the age Thirty!

I remember when I turned thirty, as well,
The idea of being that old just didn’t jell.
I thought I’d feel smarter, responsible, wise
But feeling no different was sure a surprise.

Today, Joseph may be feeling somewhat the same
He may think that in those years he hasn’t changed,
But as I look at him and remember times past.
I’m impressed with all that he’s gained – stuff that lasts!

I recall a little boy with a superman cape and a purse
Whose crazy escapades were sometimes a curse.
Eating poisonous plants, bee stings, rocks that richochet.
Sometimes it seemed always – it wasn’t his day.

But somehow when I wasn’t looking, this little “toad”
Turned into a prince – one of the best I ever “knowed.”
I’ve seen him become a leader, a pillar, a true friend,
A man that you can count on - True to the end.

A stranger might, from the great man he sees, take a guess
That all of his strength came to him without any stress.
But I’ve seen him humbled, burying part of his heart
Then watching his sweetheart suffer pain off the chart.

He’s been willing to admit weaknesses to help others.
He’s made his sister’s husbands feel like brothers.
He’s been a hero to me – He fills me with hope,
That, when facing my trials, I’ll be able to cope.

Joseph, I love you! I want you to know
Heavenly Father knew I needed you so.
Because I have only one brother to boast ,
I can say without guilt – I love you the MOST!

Dedicated to my Sister-In-Law Jenn and Me!

So, Jonathan got hold of the ads in the local newspaper and got so excited looking at the Halloween costumes. He would come to me and show me a picture of the costume and ask, "What monster is this?" and I would look at the picture and respond, "Frankenstein" or "Dracula" or "a skeleton", etc. Well after a while, he brought me another picture and again asked "What monster is this?" So, I looked and cracked up - for it truly was a real monster.....

Scroll down to see Jonathan's monster (if you dare)!!!





















Keep going!






















Keep Going!

























Here's Jonathan's Monster:

Jonathan had passed the costumes and was looking at CD's.

I dedicate this to Jenn and me because we are in love with men who like to listen to these "MONSTERS".

Follow the Yellow Yolk Road

Yesterday was crazy, crazy, crazy. After I dropped Jonathan off at preschool, I ran the boys over to the grocery store to cash a check at our bank and get a couple of necessities. I got to the store with my little list and since it was a sticky note, I stuck it to the front of the cart while I deposited money in the bank. When I got back the list was gone except a tiny peice that was all wet - JACOB. But it was gone, so I poked my finger in his mouth and with a professional one-finger sweep, there was my list in the roof of his mouth - just a blog of paper and ink, but all gone. So, I really tried to remember everything that was on it (I only forgot one thing). I was so intent on remembering everything - which included eggs - and not so much on watching my boys. Gabe is really good at the grocery store and hasn't needed as much supervision as Jonathan, who wants to touch and try everything he sees.

I was getting the last item into the cart, when I noticed that the egg carton was open. While only one egg was lying broken on the bottom of my cart, I was cleaning yellow yolks trails all down the isle and back to the meat counter where the "alleged incident" occurred. While cleaning, the grocery store personnel did not offer to help, but did express concern that I left my children unattended (seated in a shopping cart) and an older woman from my ward, who doesn't know me, asked for direction to where "I" keep the icecream.

I got home in time to go back and get Jonathan from school. I stopped to chat with a friend without realizing that I had inadvertantly kneeled on Gabe's little puff snacks, which were stuck to my pants. When I got all the kids home, I put the two youngest down for naps and asked Jonathan to take a rest so until Gabe fell asleep and the whole family was soon asleep. A neighbor woke us all up, when I realized that my hair (which had been under a handkerchief all morning until the nap) was atrocious.

I blame all this on the great feat I accomplished the day before of canning a whole 10 quarts and 11 pints of tomatoes - my first time ever canning all by myself. I was very proud, but exhausted. So, I guess that is why I was braindead yesterday...

The Pumpkin Patch

We went with some friends to one of the county's fun Pumpking patches. Here's us as we get ready for the hay ride and pumpkin search.



This shows how short I am and that none of the boys wanted to look straight out like you're supposed to, but they did more Brady Bunch style where they look at each other...

This is Jonathan, Remington, and Gabe

This is Brooklyn and Jacob being hauled to the cars.

We had a great time and the weather was perfect! We came home with three more pumpkins to decorate. The kids loved it - especially the Not So Haunted House.

They Don't Do the Maggots...

Jonathan kept saying this yesterday as he pointed to a page in his scripture picture book that a neighbor gave him. The picture had people fighting in it. It took me all morning to realize that he was saying that they didn't follow the Commandments. So, at our house, it's good to "do the maggots."

Jonathan's Learning to Ride His Bike!

Garrett took Jonathan's training wheels off his bike and he does great if I start him and doesn't stop. So we've got the middle down - now we just need to work on the beginning and ending. This is the girl next door telling Jonathan how easy it is to ride a bike...
The first time Jonathan rode without his training wheels, he came in and told me he needed a new bike because this one didn't work anymore. "It needs new batteries", he said.

Proposition 22 and me!

As Proposition 22 becomes more and more publicized, I find myself thinking more and more about it. I have wondered if and how it will affect me and my family. I read something today that really hit me hard and made me rethink my passive role in this issue. Somehow I have thought that I can sit and let others do the work - after all, this is California, not my state.

A couple from my home ward typed up their notes from a mission reunion. Elder Ballard was their mission president. He spoke and then had a question and answer session. From his words, I realize how wrong I have been to think that this issue doesn't affect me and that I shouldn't have to take an active role in supporting Proposition 22.

These are not exact quotes, but notes taken by a great lady:

“Lucifer is lashing out against the human family, as prophesied would occur in the Last Days. We are living in the Last Days. We don’t know when the Lord will come, but we can see evidence of the hand of God in this battle. Satan is attacking in a very visual and open way. Porn and other serious problems are inspired by evil. Now we are in a contest over the very definition relating to the creation of the human family on the earth.

“Proposition 22 was approved in California by 61%, but the judges are trying to throw it out as unconstitutional – they want to allow same-sex couples to marry. The Church doesn’t have battle with those with same-sex attraction – to those we reach out…. But the Law of Chastity is the Law of Chastity. Marriage is a divine institution established by God between man and woman with purpose in bringing forth children to populate the earth and to receive tabernacles (mortal bodies) on earth (he said this all better – I couldn’t write fast enough). The world has been spiraling downward quickly since then (the original vote in California).

“If same-sex marriage becomes accepted in California, it will change the constitution in CA to sustain the judges’ direction, it will be like a sunami and wash across the whole country. We must fortify our lives. As we take unpopular positions, appearing to lack understanding, the Church will be subject to criticism and attacks. Are you ready? It’s not going to get better. You need to fortify yourselves and gather your children and fortify them. Man does not have the right to go against fundamental doctrine from God. He provided an Eve, not an Adam, to go out of the Garden with Adam. This is all that we may have joy and rejoicing in our posterity.

“I thought it was tough to be over the missionary program of the Church. I chair the Church Public Affairs Committee and it is taking all the energy and spiritual strength that they know how to access… Lucifer is committed to destroy the family.....

“Stand. Don’t waffle. The Church will not amend the doctrine to accommodate the world. Our doctrine cannot be changed – we are bound by words and teachings of the prophets of God and of the Savior. Be steady. Be firm. Be sure. Those who want to know the Truth, eventually find us – and ultimately will be able to know and be baptized.


Question: Should Proposition 8 fail, how will the Church deal with same-sex requests for temple marriage?

Elder Ballard: “We don’t know. This will be a real battle. The gay community is saying it is a civil right, but the consequence is loss of religious freedom. A Church speaker could be sued. A doctor within the last 90 days was approached by a lesbian couple who wanted artificial insemination. He said he couldn’t do it for religious reasons, but there were other doctors there who would. They sued him. A photographer in New Mexico was asked by a gay couple to photograph for their wedding. He said he wouldn’t – they sued him and the judge fined him $6,000. Clergy have been sued in Canada for not performing same-sex marriages (yes, our dear maple leaf country has legalized same-sex marriages). The Catholic church in Massachusetts has closed their adoption services there because it is against their religion to adopt out children to same-sex couples and they don’t want to be sued – in Massachusetts it has been legalized. A pamphlet was sent home with a 3rd grader in Massachusetts that had a story about a king who married a king. The parents approached the school board and complained and were told that parents had no say in the school curriculum. We need to realize that religious freedom will be lost if this becomes a civil right. The Founding Fathers said their text was the Holy Bible…. This could end up in the Supreme Court. Even if it does not get legalized in California, this will continue to be an issue. We need to be anchored; solid.”

Photoholic!

Lately Gabe wants his picture taken. This is him right before bed asking me to take his picture. He is rather cute - I'd want my picture taken too.

A Purple Cow!

Last Wednesday, I got home from work at about 5:30. I had left at about 2:45, so I just missed Jonathan coming home from preschool. Garrett meets me at the door with a very serious look on his face and says, "Have you seen Jonathan?" I become frantic with worry - Was he hurt? Did something happen? Did he get in trouble? No, Garrett explains, "They painted his fingernails at preschool." Oh! Dread of dreads....so it was purple day and the teachers let the kids decide if they did or did not want their fingernails painted. Jonathan chose the purple polish and came home and showed dad. He must have sensed right away that this was not exciting to Daddy, so he says, "Ok! Let's wash it off now." Garrett explains that you can't wash it off, and Jonathan becomes upset. He ran to see me first thing to ask me what cool stuff I had that would take the polish off. Funny! Funny! Of course, I took a picture first...

The picture he painted is a purple cow with the following poem:

I never saw a purle cow.

I never hope to see one.

But I can tell you anyhow

I'd rather see one than be one.

He memorized the last line and told me that - It was cute.

The Giants In My Life

I was thinking this morning how there are so many great people in my life that strengthen me and make me a better person. A few of them have really impacted my life this week and I'd like to share them with those of you that may not know them...

Dieter F. Uchtdorf gave two talks at the General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints that has really hit the spot for me. One was actually at the Relief Society meeting the Saturday before conference. If you have some time to listen, here are the links: http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-947-7,00.html and http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-947-37,00.html

Next, my brother Joseph's wife, Jenn, posted a blog entitled Not bad, as far as a Thursday goes
posted on October 9th, 2008 at http://zollyzoo.com/jennblog/ This blog reminded me once again how lucky I am in my brother's choice of the only sister-in-law to join an almost all girl family. Her words have really helped me this week.

Then, on Wednesday, one of my roommates from college had a healthy baby girl. Doesn't sound so inspirational. Natalie's first boy was born with serious heart problems requiring three open heart surgeries in the first couple years of his life, the first one coming the first few days of his life. When their second son was born, he too had heart problems. A few months before my Gabe was born, Natalie and Doug got a little girl, free from heart problems. A few days after Gabe was born, she died of SIDS. They got pregnant when I got pregnant with Jacob and miscarried soon after. As I spoke with her, my heart was touched with the amount of courage she continues to exhibit. Through it all, her testimony (and that of her husband's) remains strong and true. This past year, they've even opened the doors of their baby girls room and had a teenage girl who needed a place to live stay with them. On Wednesday, they had a beautiful, healthy baby girl, appropriately named Faith - See her pictures at http://natalie-fieldfamily.blogspot.com/2008/10/got-faith-we-do.html.

And just last night, my little sister Melanie - no longer the little girl that asks to snuggle with me when I come from college, but a fantastic, darling woman with two adorable children - posted a message that really impressed me as it involves the situation in California - something that remains in the back of my mind - although it could have lasting impressions on our entire nation. Her blog is found at http://daveandmelstory.blogspot.com/2008/10/what-are-you-going-to-do-about-it.html.

These are just some of the people that have really affected me this week. There are so many more in my life. How lucky I am!!!

Thanks to Aunt Carissa and Uncle Shawn!

Thanks for the fantastic gift - They boys have already enjoyed the fruits of your labors. We love your packages!

Brothers

Jonathan, Gabe, and Jacob - What a trio! As you can see, Jacob is never quite sure what to expect from his brothers - A question also in my mind - I keep trying to strike a balance between encouraging them to play together and keeping everybody safe....

I did it!

"I did it!" is currently Gabe's favorite thing to tell me. And it's so fun to hear. He says it whenever he gets on a chair or off a chair, pulls his pants on by himself or his socks, when he eats all his food or just one bite of his vegetables, when he gets to the top of the stairs or to the bottom, when he gets to the top of a chair or a couch.

And as a sentimental, proud mother, I think he's fantastic!

Squeaky Clean

I just love bath time. The boys - especially Jacob - are thrilled to be in water and they're just so cute. Here's Jacob with his big two teeth grin - Stay tune for pictures of the third one that just poked its head thru the gums.
And here are Jonathan and Gabe - a little to rough in the tub for the baby. Gabe's hair was just washed and thus, has the Spike look.

Garrett's New Wheels!

On the 1st of October, Garrett drove home with this in the back of his truck. He bought it off KSL Classifieds from a guy in Providence, Utah. He's enjoyed it and we're hoping it will save us money in the long run, so he doesn't have to drive the truck as much.

And besides.....doesn't a motorcycle look fabulous with a good looking guy in jeans and a white T-shirt sitting on it? Well, I think so!

Our 2008 Family Reunion

The new yearly tradition to have our family reunion at Heber Valley Campground was a lot of fun. We stayed in Yurts, which were a little chilly the first night. But the 2nd night was much better and we had a lot of fun. I, of course, forgot to take very many pictures, so you'll have to look at Jenn's or Melanie's site to see the good pictures, but I did capture some cute ones swimming at the neat pool in Kamas (the site of the previous week's triathlon).

Here's the whole family, minus Steph of course, who is on a mission in Autralia and who was greatly missed. Garrett and I are on the left side. I'm holding Jacob and Garrett's holding Gabe who's sporting his new jacket which was a b-day present from Aunt Carla. Dave and Melanie are next to us. Dave's holding Mathew and Mel's holding Brooke. Next to Melanie is David, who is holding Katie. Next to David is Jenn, who's holding Emmy and next to Emmy is her twin brother Owen, being held by my brother Joseph. Next to Joseph (on the right) is Carla. Below and to the left of her is my dad, who is holding Ryan (Joseph's oldest son), then Rachel (David and Shayla's oldest), then mom, and then Shayla is holding Sarah and also has her arms around Jonathan, our oldest. And that's everyone (except the aforementioned Stephanie).
This is Aunt Carla trying to keep her balance with all the neices and nephews. What a job!
And here we have Garrett in the pool playing with Jonathan and Gabe. I had gotten out to feed Jacob, who's tummy was grumbling.
Here you can see that we covered Gabe's head for the swimming and camping excursions to protect his little stitches, which came out the next day in the ER. We originally tried to keep Gabe safely out of the water, but as you can see, he likes the water and wouldn't have anything to do with staying dry.
This is my brother Joseph putting on a crazy face with Owen, who I think is saying, "Help me Ryan! Dad's getting crazy again." Ryan doesn't look too sure if interceding is the best option at this point.
And that was the reunion. We went and ate yummy pizza afterwards. And all our leftovers, were carefully placed in a take home container, carefully set on top of the care while kids got buckled in, and not so carefully blew away in the wind. My apologies to the City of Kamas, who I'm sure is wondering who dumped pizza all over main street.

Jonathan's New School

This is Jonathan in front of his new preschool with our friend Ember (Whose birthday is tomorrow! Happy Birthday, Ember!). We carpool together. This picture was taken on "Red Day". Jonathan is doing very well and really enjoying the two hours, three days/week with lots of friends.