Cynthia & Garrett Family

No Snow for Christmas!

2010-12-28T11:46:00.000-08:00

This is our front yard this weekend - no snow!

The boys before church

Christmas Day 2010

2010-12-28T10:26:00.000-08:00

Gabe got sick early Christmas morning with the flu. So, he did some throwing up and looked pale until the afternoon. Here is when we finally let him eat his Christmas ceral - Aliens (after which he threw up again).

Grandma W gave the boys this pirate ship and sea monster for Christmas - It was a hit!

Enjoying Christmas presents - Gabe, Me, Jacob, and Jonathan

Jonathan got a Science kit - Our little scientist was pretty excited!

Jacob loves Thomas the Train and was elated when he saw his show - as you can see.

Here's Daddy and the boys with their new fleece jackets

Garrett opening a present - with that handsome grin on his face...

That nice - due to Jacob's Christmas hyperactivity - Gabe and Jonathan ended up sleeping in Jonathan's bed, which has never happened before. When I went to check on them in the middle of the night, this is the scene I found.

It was a wonderful Christmas and we were (and are) very blessed.

Christmas Eve 2010

2010-12-28T10:06:00.000-08:00

We did our Christmas a day early, because Garrett was scheduled to work (but they put him on call.....again!). This was our Christmas Eve.

Garrett, Gabe, Jonathan

Gabe, Me, and Jacob

My Dad helped Jonathan make this ramp for Jacob and his cars. It was a hit!

Gabe made Jonathan Wookie Cookies (Thanks to Grandma Platt's recipe!).

Uncle Shawn and Aunt Carissa drew our names for Christmas. Gabe got a cross bow (that he can do without help!); Jonathan got a bow and arrow that he practiced with all day; and Jacob got an elastic band gun. They were hits. Thanks Shawn and Carissa!

Jonathan has been taking pictures over the holidays and here are a couple of the other gifts that we exchanged as a family:

Garrett gave Gabe cheese-filled crackers.

Jacob made (with mom's help) a calendar with a picture of the boys and Garrett taking a rest from a hike we went on during a camping trip. We hung it on the fridge...

Uncle Joseph's Homecoming

2010-12-28T09:53:00.000-08:00

Uncle Joseph came home from his mission on December 2nd. It was so exciting for the boys to see him. My knee had developed an allergic reaction, so I was not able to walk. Garrett had to work, so my darling mother pushed me around the airport, while keeping track of three distractable boys. Joseph ended up coming on a later flight, so it was a long afternoon.

Vincent, Jonathan, Hadley, Corbin, Gabe, Bradyn waiting and waiting and waiting....

Gabe getting a little silly while he waited....

Uncle Joseph is finally here!!!!

Nephews w/Uncle Joseph: Bradyn, Vincent, Jonathan, Corbin, Jacob, Gabe, Andy, Hadley

I wanted to have pictures to show how the boys grew while Uncle Joseph was away, so here's the shot right before he left....
And when he came home:

This bottom picture was at a restarant where we after leaving the airport.

My Surgery and Thanksgiving

2010-12-28T08:43:00.000-08:00

On November 17th, I had my menniscus (?spelling) operated on. Garrett went with me for the surgery, which went well, and then, he left me in the caring hands of my mom and dad, and took the boys to hang out with Garrent's mom and Darrell for a few days, leaving me better able to relax and recover.

On the way back home, they stopped at Brandon and Mandy's house and played with their cousins.

For Thanksgiving, we went to my mother's parent's home. This is me with my grandpa, sporting my new hairdo.

Garrett and Jacob

Melanie, Maylee, and Grandpa

Melanie, Maylee, Mathew, and Grandpa

Gabe, Uncle Dave, Brooke, and Mathew

Stephanie and Grandpa

Jonathan, Jacob, Grandpa, and Gabe

Riding on Daddy's back....

Uncle Doug, Grandma, and Dad

Grandma, a sleeping Jacob on Grandpa's lap, Me, Mom, Uncle Doug's head

The Latest Goings-On

2010-11-17T07:41:00.000-08:00

Well, I haven't been very good at keeping up on all this, but I'll blame it on our lack of Internet connection. Here is the latest and greatest in our home.

Jonathan, Jacob, and Gabe playing on their favorite toy - Daddy! (who just buzzed his hair).

Snuggling up....

The Halloween Party at my parents house - Ryan, Jonathan, Gabe, Katie, Brooke, Rachel, Sarah, Jacob, Owen and Emmy on the floor - Aren't they all darling!

Jonathan - Spiderman; Gabe - Happy Feet Penguin; Jacob - Thomas the Train

Trip to the Pumpkin Patch - Gabe, Jacob, and Jonathan waiting for the tractor ride....

The Pumpking Patch - Jonathan, Gabe, and Jacob

Gabe, Jacob, and Jonathan eating spaghetti - lots of spaghetti!

Jacob in the bathtub - playing...

Decorating Ginger Bread Cookies after Family Home Evening

Watching a show with Daddy

This is in our neighbor's yard - They were gone and the boys raked up their leaves as a service. I was so proud of them that they thought of this themselves. The, of course, they had to play in the leaves.

I sent the boys downstairs to watch a show while I got dinner on and I came down to a very quiet room......too quiet. Yes, they're all passed out. No sleep tonight!

Gabe's birthday party - He got a Star Wars Icecream cake - It was a big hit. Four wonderful years with our "big boy".

Gabe loves Star Wars - as you can see. Here's a b-day present.

This whole post is kind of backwards. Gabe's b-day was back in August and the shaved head picture of Garrett just happened.

Our Summer Activities

2010-08-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

Our annual trip to St. George - playing on the red rocks.

Jonathan played T-ball - It was a lot of fun..

These are pictures from our family campout. We had a lot of fun!

This one was one a hike - resting in the shade.

Whittling with Dad....

The hike....(again).

And again...

Eating a yummy dinner - prepared by dad (ahhhhh! how I love camping)!

The Zollinger Family Reunion at Bear Lake

Playing the pinnocle tournament (Carla and I took 2nd and mom and Steph took 1st)

Jonathan and Ryan
Jacob - practicing for his plumbing profession

The famous raspberry milkshakes...

The kids watching Veggie Tales for the 14th time.

The 4th of July Celebration with the Platt's

The oldest grandson's - Jonathan, Cael, and Corbin

Gabe and Jacob watching fireworks with Dad

Roasting marshmellows (my boys call them mushrooms.....we're trying to change that)

More fireworks

Family party in Provo

The 2nd annual TriZathalon

Family Pictures

2010-04-09T10:25:00.000-07:00

My cousin Trina took these pictures - This top one is the one we chose for our family picture. But they all look great. This is at a park in Orem.

January Highlights

2010-02-21T16:15:00.000-08:00

New Year's party at Grandma and Grandpa's!

Garrett and Gabe with Gabe's new haircut from Aunt Stephie - Cute, huh!

Our hometeacher's family gave us a bunch of toys - Here's the lincoln log cabin that Jonathan and his dad built.

Jacob's 2nd birthday!

Jacob's birthday cake

Brothers peering (somewhat jealously) at Jacob's new toy!

I love this picture because this is how Garrett kneels for family prayer and now, all the boys do it to, but not because their knees hurt them, but because they want to be like Daddy! And this is a doll that Jacob has taken to - I've even seem him kissing it....right before he kicks it.

It was a hard night and I ended up in the guest bed, so Garrett could sleep, and Jonathan ended up in bed with me. Then, I woke up and read my scriptures and before long, Jacob joined me.

Carol and Bryan came out for Garrett's birthday and we had lots of fun and made lots of plans...

Garrett was cleaning out some of his stuff and the boys were helping him. Soon, they came upstairs dressed like this.

Sir Gabe - my little knight in browning armour.

Christmas Fun

2010-02-21T15:35:00.001-08:00

Well, here's some stuff from Christmas this year!
This is hide-and-seek when mommy's counting - Everyone ends up in the closet. Jacob loves finding people - Hiding's ok, if you can find him quick. Gabe still thinks it's fun to hide in the same place every time. Jonathan is getting into the game more and more!

This is at the local Festival of Trees. While we waited for Jonathan to perform, Gabe got on Santa's lap.

Jonathan is about dead center, with an elf hat on, 2nd row from the front, with his hands covering his teeth, and most likely not singing, but very happy to be with the people who are singing.

Here's Christmas morning when the boys came in. As always, Gabe is pulling a crazy face; Jacob is showing a typical I-just-woke-up-so-don't-smile-at-me look. Jonathan's got a big smile on. I don't remember why they're wearing shoes....

For Christmas, each of the boys got hats. I love it!

Fall back to fall - An Update

2010-02-21T15:00:00.000-08:00

Gabe and a cow on the Zollinger Farm.

Feeding cows the corn husks (Gabe, Uncle Joseph, Brooke, Jacob, Owen).

At the end of September, Garrett's Grandma Platt died. The oldest son from each of her children's families were each pall bearers. So there's Garrett, on the front right side.

Here's Garrett again, and Jacob in the bottom left side.

In this picture, you can see a little boy that I do not know (on the left), then Hadley, Gabe, Jacob on my lap, Jonathan, Corbin, and Vincent.

After the funeral and grave dedication, we went over to the grave of Garrett's brother, Aaron. The boys had kept a rose from Grandma Platt's grave (w/permission), and they set one of them on the headstone. I thought it was a great picture!

On October 20th, Jonathan lost his first tooth while mommy was away at school, Garrett took pictures and he called to tell me about it - hence the phone.

The boys build a fort in their room (I think), while mommy was away.

Forcing Gabe (a knight with a ninja sword and sheild) to go trick-or-treat'ing (Can't we stay home and get candy; Can we go home yet; let's get out of here) with Jonathan (Wolverine), and Jacob (the scarecrow).

Here's Jonathan's Thanksgiving party. Jonathan, AKA Wolf Man, is doing an indian dance with drum music.

Summer Overview

2009-09-12T19:42:00.001-07:00

Well, I've been busy, but here's some tidbits from our summer.

We had a family reunion with my mother's family. My cousin Trina is an incredible photographer and took some cute pictures of the boys. Here they are:

This one's Gabe.

Jacob is fascinated with the balloons!

I took this one - Jonathan's in the middle of a carnival - loaded with his goods!

A couple weeks later for the 24th of July, my grandpa was honored as one of the oldest veterans in his community. This is the program. On the end is mom and my Aunt Marianna, followed by Grandma and Grandpa.

Here is Maylee - My sister Melanie's 3rd child. She was born the end of July.

And another addition to the family gatherings....Stephanie is dating Dan. They've been dating for some time and we've gotten the chance to enjoy him a lot this summer.

Here is our First Annual family triathlon. The sign is Melanie's head - representing that she was "a head" all the way. She was "unavoidably detained" in the hospital with the above baby's birth. She'll be back for next year's triathlon and will most likely cream everyone, I'm sure! This is the beginning of the 3 mile run.

This is after the run and the 14-mile bike, as we got ready for the 500 yard swim.

And here is the swim.
While I was tired at the end, it was fun to do this as a family and I believe we'll do it again next year. Also, tooting my own horn a little, I won the bike!

This is a family picture from Garrett's family's reunion. Everyone of Garrett's siblings are there and most of the rest of everyone. We're missing Amanda's husband Ben.

Garrett's dad sent us home with Garrett's sister's old car, to help out with my latest ventures (of which I will speak later). When we cleaned it out, we found this pair of glasses and Gabe claimed them...

With August full of fun, we had the triathlon the first weekend, Garrett's family's reunion the 2nd weekend, and my family's reunion two weekends later. Here's my dad with Gabe and little Emmy.

This is at the lake, as we got ready to canoe. Garrett, Brooke, and Melanie are behind, and Jacob, Jonathan, and Gabe are in front - I just love that they're holding hands!

And right before we left, we had Gabe's b-day party. He didn't ask for much, just a Wiggles cake and a yellow blanket. He was so fun - the way he'd get so excited. This is him cheering for the cake with a Wiggles car on top - thanks to his father finding one at Toys-R-Us.

Aunt Carla got a big cheer too, when he saw his new shirts.

And here is the aforementioned blanket. Pretty exciting, huh!

It is so fun to put a lot of work into something and feel that it's really appreciated, and boy! did my little Gabe make it all worth it.

Here's the lunch before we left and Garrett getting a little to eat.

Afterwards, out of tradition and because it's a blast, we went to a nearby swimming facility. Here's Gabe and Jacob with Dad.

And here's Jonathan - big eyed!

Jacob had a blast!

And the next Monday, Jonathan began school. Doesn't he look excited!

And since Jonathan started school, Gabe has decided he doesn't need naps. This is what he looked like when I went to check on him .....definitely not asleep!

Garrett was able to sell a stove that we bought last spring. He had to take some pictures of the inside and when he went to look at them - someone had popped into the back of the picture.

Well, that was our summer. I am going to school this fall - a school 2.5 hours away. So, I leave my little men with my big men Tuesday - Thursday. Then, I'm mom on the weekend. It's a lot of work and I feel like I run from one thing to the other. This weekend, I put up 14 bottles of salsa, some pickles, and some stewed tomatoes, and the fun just keeps on coming.

I am guessing that you won't hear from me again until December.

The Perfect Anniverary Trip

2009-06-28T17:17:00.000-07:00

Well, we got to celebrate our anniversary together on Tuesday and Wednesday. My mom and dad came and took care of the kids while we were gone. We just went some place not so far away and camped and 4-wheeled.

The wildflowers were everywhere and gorgeous. The standing water was attracting all these colorful moth/small butterfly things and as we'd drive by they'd flutter around us. It was magical. And.....while we drove on the 4-wheeler, I could focus on us - the two of us. I could help Garrett without distraction and we could talk without interruption, and it was fantastic.

A big thanks to Garrett who took care of trip - I got everything ready for mom and dad and the kids, but Garrett got the whole trip planned and executed. It was wonderful! Sorry no pictures, but the ones engraved on my heart.

2009 Camping Trip #1

2009-06-14T20:24:00.000-07:00

Here's Garrett looking the car over and realizing - There's just no way all our stuff is going to fit!

Garrett set up such a nice camp. And the boys all got dressed up for the camping experience!

Here's Jacob too, with his bandana.

And all of them together!

Gabe was a little tired - We went on this little excursion before breakfast!

I love this picture - Jonathan, Gabe, Jacob, and Daddy!

Here's the boys by one of the views. They look like they're praying - I'm not sure why!

And here's us around the campfire as evening settled the first night (these pictures are not really in order).

It rained a lot, but we had fun. We tried to do some fishing, but our boys ate more of the marshmellows than the fish did. It was a great trip!

The Best Day of My Entire Life.......So Far

2009-06-04T20:57:00.001-07:00

Today was so wonderful. We packed the kids up after lunch and went into a nearby National Forrest and hiked and played in the water and had snacks and sang songs and drove fast through all the puddles. It was fantastic!

Garrett makes everything so perfect by having all the perfect ideas - like letting the boys wear his hats - They love that! He had a back pack thing with water in it that astounded the boys and he let them practice with the compass and binocular. I just told him that we had to have a picture of him too - hence, the look.

Gabe and Jacob fell asleep on the way there. As you can see, they were wearing Garrett's hats already.

Jacob wasn't terribly thrilled with being carried on the hike - He's a lot happier here running around. Towards the end of the day, he was throwing rocks into a little creek and I started throwing big ones in the same spot at the same time - so he thought he was making some incredible splashes. He loved it until it was time to go.....

Here's Jonathan's enjoying a snack while his curious little mind studies everything! OH! And to his side is his backback with his play camera, binolcular, compass, canteen, etc. He never took a think out of the pack, but he felt so important carrying it all over.

I was just thinking during it all that it doesn't get any better than this.

Garrett found a nest of new little caterpillar's just moving around.

As you can see, the boys were amazed! Gabe doesn't want to get too close.

Here's me, carrying Jacob, with Gabe at my side.

It was just fantastic - A big thanks to Aunt Carla for the backpack child carrier she gave me when I was pregnant with Jonathan. We couldn't have made it without her. What a wonderful day! I feel so lucky to be the mom of this family. (In case you have very sharp eyes, there is a flower tucked into my bandana - which incidentally doesn't match, but the one that did is in the laundry - one more thing to do before I go to bed.....anyway, Garrett gave me this wildflower on our first little excursion today - He won my heart.....again.

And this was my favorite view - I know that the good days come and go and that there are many great things yet to happen in life, but this was the best day yet!

Definitely NOT ..........The End.

I'm Singing in the Rain!

2009-06-02T15:44:00.001-07:00

It rained off and on yesterday. Encouraged by Cousins Rachel and Katie's movie clip where they use their umbrellas in the sprinkles, we let the boys enjoy the rain with umbrellas. Jacob thought it was a game, where you ducked under the umbrella and then, ran out into the rain.
This shows Jacob and Gabe playing under the umbrella.

And here they are again! Jonathan under the red, Gabe under the blue, and Jacob in the rain!

Summer Fun

2009-06-02T15:36:00.001-07:00

This summer has been filled with lots of fun - playing in our little pool, digging holes in the back yard, having friends over, learning to bike (Jonathan) without training wheels, etc.

This is Gabe, doing puzzles - He loves them!

This is Jonathan building a jail, I believe.

Garrett changed his tires on the truck from the snow tires, to the regular ones. Jacob wanted to sit in them and Jonathan wanted to be part of the picture. Behind the tires is the most wonderful source of transportation on Earth. I love my bike!

Grandpa and Grandma Platt took Jonathan to the DI around new years, and they came back with the little orange doll for Jacob. He loves it, as you can see!

Well, we've been toilet training, biking, gardening, and (last night) playing in the rain. Nothing very exciting, but we're definitely staying busy.

The Latest

2009-05-24T18:41:00.001-07:00

I asked Jonathan to put his shoes on and go to breakfast. When he didn't come out for a while, I went to check on him. Cute....
Rachel, Katie, Aunt Stephie, and Grandma came out for a visit and to see Jonathan in his Preschool Program. This is them: Gabe, Rachel, Jacob on Aunt Stephie's lap, Jonathan, and Katie.

Today, I had Jacob come help me wake Jonathan up from his nap. If I do it, it's tears and sadness and "I'm still tired," but with Jacob softly rubbing Jonathan's back and climbing all over him, it was ok - and everyone's smiling (the picture-taker too!).

Not a lot else to report - the garden is growing - I've planted anywhere I can think. We've done a lot of biking to the library and the park. Jonathan accidentally broke a DVD from the library and he did a good job of taking care of the problem (which included cleaning up the little twigs that fell on the library lawn during the last big wind storm). The boys want to play outside all the time. Jacob gets into everything and is smiling as long as you don't take anything away from him. I have been attempting potty training Gabe - who's been doing great with #1, but on Saturday, after sitting on the toilet for an hour (watching his favorite cartoons), he went town stairs and not only made a lovely #2 mess, but stepped in it.....several times. When I got down there, I didn't know what to do and where to start! I just kept saying, "Don't move!" to all the boys. I masterfully cleaned it all up (even touching up some other dirty spots in the carpet), but I gave in to the pressure and he's worn a diaper since. I'm trying to get the courage up today to try again.......

I'm really not feeling it.

My Mother's Day

2009-05-17T18:47:00.000-07:00

Well, I just got thru reading everyone's mother's day posts, and thought I should add a little on my own. It was fun being home with my family. It was fun taking the boys to hear their Aunt Stephanie speak in church.

Garrett gave me some very sweet mother's day gifts and I'm thankful for how thoughtful he is. First, he ordered the part for the KitchenAid (please don't ask, I'm too embarrassed to admit how I broke it...) that was needed to fix it and he followed directions to get it all put back together.

Next, he ordered some gerber daisies from the ward young women's group and gave half to my mom and half to me. Both halves made me happy - It was fun to share in giving some fun to my mom!

Finally, he bought a Mary Kay basket from his sister to pamper me and it has been fun. There's some exfoliant for my hands and lips and moisterizer for them as well. I really like it!

Mother's Day reminds me how blessed I am to be a mother, to have such a wonderful mother, and to have so many wonderful examples in the women around me.

Siblings

2009-05-12T09:13:00.001-07:00

Here's Steph and me.

Here's Steph and Joseph (and a little bit of darling Jenn).

This weekend, I got to spend time with my siblings and their spouses. I continue to be amazed by all of them - They are such good examples for me and I love them. I'm so grateful for their influence in my life.

Cousins!

2009-05-12T09:09:00.001-07:00

At the "Welcome Home" celebrations, the cousins got lots of together time. Here, you see Katie taking her turn to do tricks for Uncle Dave (usually said with wild screams by his adoring neices and nephews), Matthew, Gabe, Ryan, Brooke (back facing the picture), Jonathan, and Sarah.
And here, they are jumping around in circles (Jonathan, Brooke, Gabe, Uncle Dave keeping it "clean" with Matthew and Ryan, Sarah, and Katie)

Aunt Stephanie Came Home!

2009-05-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

Aunt Stephanie came home from her mission to Australia!
This is the boys with their aunt. Gabe, Jacob, and Jonathan w/Stephanie!

Here is the family anxiously waiting for her return (Dad holding a squirming Jonathan, Mom holding an active Jacob, Me holding an anxious Gabe).

Here's Garrett letting Jacob wander around the airport on his finger.

It's been so fun to get to see Steph again and have the boys aware of the great opportunities that a mission provides.

Trip to Temple Square

2009-05-07T20:21:00.001-07:00

Garrett and Jacob at the Reflection pool.

Jonathan and Gabe playing IN the pool.

Everyone at the Reflection Pool by the Salt Lake temple.

Jonathan and Gabe - I've been to this many times, but next to this was a new family display that I'd never seen before. It was neat.

There was an interactive children's area. Gabe was the only one interested in taking care of the little babies. He pretended to eat the baby and then tried to feed the babies feet.

The boys dressed up and almost climbed right into the nativity.

This is the statue of the Angel Moroni.....and in the background, Jonathan doing some random pose that he always does.....who knows why?

Jonathan at the podium.

It was a lot of fun - 2 hours was the perfect time. We continued on to American Fork, where Garrett got a haircut from his mom and the boys spent time with Grandma and Grandpa. We also got to hang out with Ben, Amanda, and Vincent. It was great!

Then, Tuesday, we got to go to the airport and see Aunt Stephanie come home from her mission. But those pictures will have to wait until next week! Welcome Home Steph!

Helping Daddy with the Boat

2009-05-07T20:07:00.000-07:00

This is the fishing boat where my Grandpa spent hours fishing.
This is a great catch!

Jacob's getting ready to GET the fish!

All ready to fish - Do we (parents = 2) dare to take them (children=3) fishing???

My Growing Garden

2009-04-28T09:34:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited about my garden. I got almost all the grass dug up before our terrific neighbor came and tilled it all up. Then, I put some "activator" that Ace Hardware recommended. It's supposed to break down any leftover grass and get the soil excited about growing plants.
Garrett taught me to use the saw and I made these fence posts and markers. The boards were so cheap and we already had the chicken wire, so now it's kid proof, right????

I planted peas and radishes, with the kids help. In a little garden along the house, we also planted some onions and garlic.

Finally, here's our ever-growing indoor garden. It's so exciting to see stuff growing. I did some transplanting into bigger pots that I bought at the DI. I can't wait until the middle of May when I can start putting things in the ground!

As I watered the garden yesterday, I was reminded of my father's mother, out every morning watering her flowers and tomato plants. Great stuff!

Weekend with Grandma and Grandpa

2009-04-28T09:25:00.001-07:00

We spent the 17-19 with my mother's parents. The kids loved it. Here's Jacob playing with new toys that I remember playing with.
Here's the boys listening to Grandma tell "Granny" stories. They loved it.

I didn't get a picture, but Jonathan was facinated with the contraption that puts Grandpa's socks on. Jonathan also came home with a bunch of scrap peices of wood that he likes to make into a castle. Grandma let the boys help plant peas (reminding me how it's done!).

We were at my parents for a short time and Gabe was so tired - I think he took one bite of the cracker under his left hand and fell asleep without even chewing it.

It was a wonderful weekend - I love being with Grandma and Grandpa! I'm so glad my children could enjoy such a great experience!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-11T07:24:00.000-07:00

This Easter, I have been filled with gratitude again for the life, Atonement, and resurrection of the Savior. I don't know how to express all that I feel. Recently, I have felt that I have never really grasped how to utilize the power of the Atonement in bringing joy into my life, despite the ups and downs and heartaches of life. I'm just so grateful to understand this - and so grateful to the Savior for the miracle of the Atonement.

This video was created from the talk by Elder Jeffry R. Holland from Conference last weekend. Happy Easter to all my friends and family.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpFhS0dAduc

The New Beds for the Boys

2009-04-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

We have considered putting the boys in bunk beds, but we were worried about him being up so high - he really doesn't like hights......so, what to do....

Well, Garrett had an idea. And this is it.

These are bunk bed cots. And it fits great and the boys love it. Jonathan can jump down on his own, and he can climb up the sides. It fits great. So, we've put all the boys together in the same room - It should be interesting. This leaves us the sunniest room in the house to start our garden starts.....WAHOO! I'm going to have a garden!

Aunt Carla's Tea Party

2009-04-06T20:41:00.000-07:00

Wonderful Aunt Carla threw a tea party for the kids.

The fantastic high quality swords made by Garrett. Sadly, I didn't get a picture of the darling magic wands that Garrett also made for the girls.

My sweet Gabe giving sad little Jacob a kiss.

All the cousins who camed....

Top Row: Katie, Ryan, Rachel, Brooke Jonathan (I shouldn't have asked him to smile)

Bottom Row: Owen, Sarah, Jacob, Gabe, Emmy, Mathew, Aunt Melanie

A New Fence

2009-04-03T08:15:00.000-07:00

The big storm that went through took two 8-foot sections of our fence down. We got some supplies a couple of days ago and yesterday, Garrett repaired the fence.

He amazes me - He had it done in a couple of hours and did it in the rain!

I should have taken before and after pictures.....but you'll have to take my word for it!

Super Power???? Shots

2009-04-02T20:09:00.000-07:00

Jonathan has been so excited since I used an idea from Keribeth's blog and told him that today we'd be going to the doctor to get his super power shots so he'd be ready for kindergarten. He kept running to the door and peeking over to see if it was his turn. They finally called his name and he didn't even wait for me.

In the office, the doctor checked him all out and it was great. He smiled from ear to ear. Then, the nurse came in with 5 shots. The first one went in his arm. That's when he told me that he didn't want any more super power shots. After the second, he began fighting. I held him tight and bit back those tears that I always struggle holding back when my kids get hurt. He did pretty good for the last one.

I asked him if he'd like a treat for being so brave. He said he wasn't brave, but he was ok with having a treat anyway, and chose Cheetos. He shared them with his brothers (who should have been upset because I've never offered them treats after shots, but who didn't mind as they downed a lot of cheetos).

And tonight, he's very proud of his band-aids. Sadly, some new rules came into play and he'll have to get one more in 6 months....

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things...

2009-03-29T21:03:00.000-07:00

I keep waiting for "something" to happen so I can blog, but I really haven't had anything exciting happen, so I just thought I write some stuff that I love about my life....

1) A couple of minutes ago, we could hear Jonathan sneaking down the hall (I have no idea where he gets that). When I saw his little head poke its way around the corner and say, "Mommy," Garrett took off running in a mad dash for him. He was scared to death until he heard me start giggling and then, he started giggling too. Garrett caught him and put him to bed....wonderful!

2) I took Gabe to the store yesterday. Everything I picked out to buy, Gabe would say, "Love it." And as he goes around the store with me, he does this jump thing when he runs. It's like he jumps up and his legs kick out a little and then he runs some and jumps and kicks and runs some more. I'm not describing it very well, but it's so cute.

3) Jacob likes to barrel into my legs and get hugs, but he doesn't want to be picked up. He just wants to walk around until he finds another set of legs that will hug him (often he finds me again).

4) Gabe likes to kiss my nose - Isn't that strange? But it's so sweet and I love it. When I lay down with him for his naps, he puts his little face an inch from mine, kisses my nose, smiles so sweet and just is so cute, I can hardly stand for him to go to sleep....

5) Jonathan gave the FHE lesson tonight (Garrett works a night shift tomorrow). He chose to do it on the same lesson he got in church - the Word of Wisdom. He loved using the flannel board stories Garrett's mom made and hang up the pictures of good food and bad food. Then, when he bore his testimony to finish, he said, "I'd like to bear my testimony that I'm a good person and I don't eat that bad stuff or make smoke with those things."

6) Jacob loves being all alone with me and Garrett. He basks in the attention he's getting from both parents.

7) Gabe has a habit of running around in circles and growling the songs we sing for Scripture Study or FHE. So there we have "I love to see the (growl) temple. I'm going there some (growl) day. To feel the holy (growl) spirit......I think you get the picture.

8) When we watch the little scripture things from the church's website, Jonathan insists on watching the same one over and over again.

9) I know its cliche how cute kids are when they sleep, but well......they really are.

10) I bore my testimony in church today (with my children waving from the back row). I know it's something that is good to do, but I really don't enjoy it. I stress out trying to get the guts to do it, while I try to figure out exactly what to say. Then, after its done, I stress about what I should and shouldn't have said. But anyway, when I got done, and I'm trying not to look at anyone and get back to my seat, I sat down and Garrett slid his arm around my shoulders. Is there a better feeling....?

The Boys and Their Activities

2009-03-23T07:25:00.000-07:00

Garrett did a lot of stuff with the boys the other day. Here is Jacob and Gabe with him on the 4-wheeler. A few minutes later, he got all four boys on at once (Jacob on front and Gabe and Jonathan on the rack.)

Jonathan, Jacob, and Gabe playing in the tub.

Jonathan learning to cast with his new fishing rod.

Jonathan and Gabe protecting our home from another monster (they're everywhere!).

Jonathan's 5th Birthday 2009

2009-03-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Well, although it's been more than a week - Here's the pictures from the birthday party:

I borrowed this one from Carissa's blog. This is Uncle Shawn with Hadley and Jonathan with his new R/C vehicle.

Gabe and Jonathan with the R2D2 cake - even when he was sick, he kept asking if he was going to have a Star Wars Cake - And Grandma came through.

Grandma and Grandpa with Jacob.

Grandpa with Jonathan and his new glasses.

Happy Birthday Cousin Vince!

2009-03-21T09:09:00.000-07:00

Three years old is great,
But it’s better to be four.
And if you don’t believe me,
Just knock on Vincent’s door.

For today he celebrates
His birthday. Yay! Horay!
How wonderful it feels
Is what he’ll proudly say.

This little guy is cute
And lots of fun, to boot.
Just ask my little boys
They think he’s a hoot!

For when they go to play
At grandma’s house they find
That Vincent likes to play
The games of the same kind.

And the smile that makes
His eyes twinkle and shine
Is endearing to this aunt
I proudly claim him mine

He’s always welcome here
At our house any time.
Vincent we love you.
We hope you like this rhyme!

Happy Birthday Vincent!
We loved playing with you last week!
We hope your day is fantastic!

(And to your parents, good luck with the move!)

Happy Birthday Uncle Ben!

2009-03-20T09:17:00.001-07:00

My brother-in-law Ben
Lives in a far-off land
They still have birthdays there
Or so I understand!

And so, although he’s far away,
This poem to him I send,
With a few kind words
To spotlight Doctor Ben.

Ben – he has a way
Of making people feel
Like they are truly great
And have his friendship’s seal.

He also had an eye
For women of great worth
For him to capture Becki’s heart
Makes him of noble birth!

And, on those days of gloom,
When boredom strikes again
Find our birthday boy
For a “portable party” is Ben.

And he loves his folks,
His sisters and his brothers.
They know that he’d live closer
If he but had his ‘druthers’.

And now that he’s a father
With two boys – Oh so cute!
His chest sticks out with pride
Their praise, he proudly toots!

Oh Ben! Our family’s lucky
To have you in the pack.
And when the army lets you go
We’ll gladly take you back!

Tid Bits

2009-03-19T20:08:00.000-07:00

Just some tidbits:

Jonathan's b-day party was so fun. We got to see lots of family (Thanks to all who came!) and cousins that have grown up so much. Sadly, Jonathan didn't feel good enough to enjoy much, but he got some really nice gifts that we have enjoyed as he is feeling better.

Jacob is officially walking!!! He's so cute and so proud of himself.

Friday and Saturday are my last two poems to complete my goal of a full year of poems for everyone's birthday. I can imagine there are some deep breaths of relief, and at least one disappointed groan (from my darling brother-in-law Shawn, who says he loves them, and consequently reins at the top of my favorite person list!!!). So, Uncle Ben and Cousin Vincent, stay tuned.....

Happy Birthday Grandma Vickie!

2009-03-14T03:30:00.000-07:00

Well, here’s another poem to share with you today.
And spread a little cheer for one more “Happy Birthday”
My poem today’s about the mom of Garrett’s family.
And I feel quite anxious to share how she has blessed me.

First off, there is the greatest love in all my heart.
For on the stage of Garrett’s life, she played a major part.
She nurtured, loved, and tended him from boy to man
And now still continues to do all she can.

Then, there is the love of learning she always shows.
Regardless of the passing years, this love only grows.
And if the family has forgotten any date
Mom’s journals have it all – the details are first rate!
She has a tremendous love for her family
And does all she can to preserve her history.

She has so many skills she’s polished and refined.
Throughout her life, she worked hard to fill her mind.
Cooking, canning, sewing – to name just a few
And then there is her art – Oh my! What she can do!

And this mother heart still yearns for her children – eight!
And all her darling grandkids, to see each, she can’t wait.
I feel truly grateful for this woman in my life
And for the man who calls her mom – to whom I am wife
Mom, we love you and we send thanks for all you do!
You make our lives better – Happy Birthday to you!

Happy Birthday Shayla and Jonathan!

2009-03-12T14:04:00.000-07:00

March 12th is a special day – special to my life.
Especially since I became a mother and a wife.

I got my second sister when I was six years old.
It didn’t take long to see she was worth more than gold.
From her earliest years, it was plain to see
That Shayla was a special part of my family.

A natural leader, noble, beautiful, and good.
Making it look easy, she did just what she should.
This makes it sound like her life’s a piece of cake
But Shayla just does her best, in all that she has stake.

And that’s the thing that is for me – my favorite part
The way she gives all she has – To me, it is an art.
From singing, dancing, schoolwork, to wife and mother too
She digs right in, does her share – like she always knew.

And yet, if you talk with her, she makes you feel at ease.
Giving practical advice without a lot of cheese.
And she makes it sound like you thought of it yourself
Truly she is better than Santa’s first class elf!

And of all her feats, her family’s her magnum opus.
Seeing all her daughters know – It looks like ‘hocus pocus’.
Now with her first son – She and David may feel like newbies!
But Shayla, it’s easy to see that your price is “far above rubies.”
(I love this pictures of her!)

Twenty-three years later, on the very same date.
I delivered our first child, ‘tho he came quite late.
Well…..at least that’s how I felt – ‘tho a mere four days.
All the pain was quick forgot, when on him, I did gaze.

His face was so angelic – with those big blue eyes
How his whole body lights right up when he gets surprised.
For one whole year “truck” was the only word he said.
But through his expressions, so much more was expressed.

Now he’s five years old and full of ideas grand.
Both my mom and dad will certainly understand
How he can remember almost every word I say;
It comes back to haunt me almost every single day!

He’s oh! So very honest when I ask if he was nice.
“Kinda I was and kinda I wasn’t”, is his unique reply!
He loves the gospel, scripture study, family home ev’ning.
“I Love to See the Temple” he and Gabe can really sing!

I love the way he tackles me and his dad in a bear hug
(‘Tho it should be the other way) It makes me feel so loved!
Jonathan, “my first born in the wilderness”,
I hope you know mom thinks you are the very best!

Oh My Sweet Boy!

2009-03-11T21:29:00.000-07:00

Garrett came home late tonight because of scouts and a work meeting that went late, so I told Jonathan that he could watch one show on TV and then, they had to turn the TV off. I got busy cleaning up upstairs and lost track of time. Jonathan came to the stairs and said, "Mom, I turned the TV off; my show got over." I was so touched. It's times like these when I want to keep him this age forever and feel lucky for the opportunity to be a mom!

No Pictures!

2009-03-10T21:00:00.001-07:00

I'm not going to be able to share any pictures for a while - I left my camera at my parent's home this weekend. But soon, soon, I'll post more.

Happy Birthday Mandi!

2009-03-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Mandi – Today’s your special day.
I like to send my birthday wish in this rhyming way!
And I know a little bit about her life – the present stage
Because we both have 3 boys and they’re almost the same age!

To be a mom AND work – We both know what it’s like
Staying home, we now can put our hearts into our tykes!
And Mandi does it all with grace – she always seems prepared
As I worry over each new step – she’s never ever scared.

I’ve seen the love in her eyes as she gives hugs and kisses
To her nieces and nephews – They feel that them she misses!
Her homes are always nice and neat – We’ve loved staying there!
The walls are decorated with so much thoughtful care.

I’m glad to know and love her – this great woman in my life
She’s means much more to me than just my husband’s brother’s wife.
Happy Birthday Mandi Kay – May your day be wonderful.
May Brandon and your little men make you feel like the family jewel!

Welcome and Happy Birthday Nathan!

2009-03-07T20:41:00.000-08:00

Today Nathan David was born into the world
He’s the first little boy after three darling girls
"What will this life hold for him?" Your mind may be asking.
"How will he fit in with pink dresses, songs, and dancing?"

But don’t you worry! You’ve never seen so much joy
From this family who is truly thrilled to have a boy!
Knowing your Uncle Joseph survived sisters too
May put your mind at ease or may truly frighten you!

Congrats to David and Shayla and girls!

Happy Brithday Zoey!

2009-03-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Jenn learned that she was pregnant – Due the end of May.
This sweet surprise she saved to tell Joseph the next day.
When she told Joseph as an anniversary gift,
The corners of his mouth – Boy! How they did lift!

During the first three months, Jenn began to crave
Hamburgers and taffy – with those little nausea waves.
A few days after Christmas, she felt the baby move.
The movements started small – but became quite a groove.
When Jenn felt these little bits of motion at the start,
She felt her love for this child grow within her heart.

Then in January, “It’s a girl,” came the big news.
And so they planned her homecoming with this little clue.
Filling up a nursery – decorations on the walls.
Cute little outfits and a place for future dolls.

After a long three months, the third term finally came.
And “Zoey” was official – this would be the perfect name!
March 3rd was pizza night!
Zoey wiggled her delight!
Maybe Zoey’s favorite food, as mom’s, would be the same!

That evening, mom and dad discussed the perfect blessing gown.
Sharing dreams of that special life that made mom’s tummy round.

When they went to bed, Jenn thought it rather strange
That Zoey wasn’t moving much – an unusual change.
By the next night, this mommy knew that something wasn’t right.
Giving her tummy a shake, she asked Zoey, “Are you alright?”.
Holding close to her those words she couldn’t bring herself to say
And could not answer Joseph’s question, “Is the baby ok?”
But laid there as though asleep, consumed with her fears;
The only sign that she heard: her silent, aching tears.

After a priesthood blessing, they spoke with the doc on-call
When the nurse couldn’t find a heartbeat, she vanished down the hall.
An ultrasound was the next step, the doctor made a start
And quickly brought to their view Zoey’s still and silent heart.

The doctor said, “I’m sorry”. Jenn felt her heart go numb.
“We’ll be ok,” “We’ll get through this” the only words to come.
They could induce the labor or just go home and wait.
The couple chose to remain although the hour was quite late.

For eleven hours, Jenn labored the morning through
Beyond the pains of body, Jenn’s soul must have suffered too.
And Joseph so unable to remove from her the pain
He must have pled, “God, please help her,” time and time again.

Finally, the little angel into their arms was placed:
Perfect and beautiful. Such a tiny little face.
They were there together as a family
And the peace that they felt bridged eternity.

“Zoey Brenlyn was born March 5, 2003 at 10:58 am. She weighed 2 lbs. 4 1/2 oz. and was 13 1/2 inches long. She had a head full of beautiful dark hair. She was perfect in every way and had a spirit so pure that she was called back to her Heavenly home without having to endure the trials of this life. We buried her on March 8 in Price next to Jenn's sister Jamie. Though we won't have the opportunity to raise her here on earth, we look forward to the day that she joins our eternal family once again.”
From the diary of Jenn D Zollinger

We love you Zoey - We feel so lucky that you are part of our family! Happy 5th birthday!

Dear Daddy

2009-03-01T15:40:00.000-08:00

Jonathan and Gabe just wrote letters (which are papers covered with pictures and lines) to Garrett and stuck them in his slippers.

As Jonathan "wrote", he said:

Dear Daddy,
I hope you see this note. I know you like to take showers to get ready to the hospital. I know you love me.

I just love how much my boys love their dad. I want to remember these cute little notes to dad when they grow up and perhaps forget to say this kind of stuff...

Haircuts

2009-02-27T15:31:00.000-08:00

Well, it's not quite spring, but the hair was getting way to long for the boys. Jonathan's was the worst, but he wasn't about to let Dad touch his head with the razor. So Garrett net him do his own hair for a while.

Then, Dad took over and wow was there a lot of hair on the floor when he got down. Jonathan jumped in the shower (his new big thing) and it was on to Gabe.

Yah....there aren't any pictures for Gabe because it took all four hands to buzz him while I kept the M&M's coming and tried to keep Jacob out of the M&M's. Then, Garrett helped both boys shower, while I cleaned up the hair and tried to keep Jacob out of the mess. I finally thought he'd given up when I caught him digging in the M&M sack. What a smart thing!

And here are the two buzzed boys. Cute, huh!

Fire Station

2009-02-25T14:44:00.000-08:00

I got to drive Jonathan and some of his classmates to the firestation yesterday, so I took Gabe too. The boys loved it and could hardly be contained when it was time to look at the trucks. The fireman had explained that they would need to quickly leave the truck area if a call came in. I looked around at the jumping, inattentive, distractable bunch and wondered exactly how that was going to happen. A few minutes later, the fire cheif came and asked me and another parent to move our vehicles - leaving only two adults with 27 kids. When we came back, we found that a call had came and the fire truck was gone. And the kids......they did just what they were told and filed right out the door without a single problem. I could hardly believe it. But I was sure proud of the kids. Sometimes I think these kids get a lot more than they let on....

Daddy and Sweet Gabe

2009-02-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

Gabe has by far been my cuddliest child. Here are some of the cuddling faces!

(For some odd reason, my children pull crazy faces when I ask them to smile).

Isn't this darling....?

Our Family Pictures

2009-02-23T15:28:00.000-08:00

This is Jonathan's 5-year-old pictures:
This is Jacob's 1-year-old picture:

This is the family picture:

These are our darling boys - who can't all smile at the same time....But they're still darling!

Know Ye Not...

2009-02-22T14:53:00.000-08:00

I couldn't decide if this should be in quotable quotes.....

Jonathan is growing up so much. The other day, he was trying to pour everyone milk and there was a huge mess on the table, so I told him he was still a little small to be doing that by himself. So, yesterday, when he tried to pour punch for everyone, I took it away from him.

He turned and looked at me with a hurt look in his eyes and said, "But mom.....I'm just trying to grow up to be like my daddy."

Our Vacation

2009-02-21T14:52:00.000-08:00

Well....our vacation started with a dinner and Grandma and Grandpa Z, followed by spending two nights at Grandma and Grandpa W. The 2nd day was full! We got our family picture taken and individual pictures of Jacob and Jonathan. Then, Garrett took me out shopping for clothes for Valentine's Day and the boys had fun with their grandparents, Aunt Amanda, and cousin Vincent.

This is a big hug for Grandma and all of the boys with Grandpa.

We got to eat lunch with Great Grandma and Grandpa P. They were so sweet with the boys and thanked us so many times for stopping to see them.

Then, we traveled on and stayed two nights with Uncle Carl and Aunt Carol, who were so kind to us, with fantastic breakfasts, good conversation, and pictures. I got to know them for the first time, really!
(Jacob was ready for a nap)!

We spent the days with Great-Grandpa Neilson, who fixed us a fantastic stew and sent us home with all kinds of goodies. He also spent some time with me, filling in some missing information about his mother. It was a lot of fun!

This is the boys at the park by Great-Grandpa N's house - the same one his father played at when he was a boy. Jonathan loved going down this pole.

The other boys loved the swings and anyone who saw me trying to extract Jacob from the swings probably thought I was kidnapping him the way he screamed!

I didn't take any more pictures, but we got to go to church with Aunt Jolene and Uncle Ron. Aunt Jolene taught a fantastic lesson on the spirit. We got to watch two fantastic shows - Mrs. Potter (the author of Peter Rabbit) and August Rush. We stayed two nights there. We were even treated to a visit from Cousin Julie and her husband Greg and family. It was great.

Then, we spent an evening and morning with with Grandma and Grandpa Z before traveling back home. It was a wonderful trip and it is nice to be home. Thanks to all those who helped us with places to stay and yummy food to eat!

Happy Birthday Emmy and Owen!

2009-02-17T21:10:00.000-08:00

We've been on vacation, so this is several days late! The twins' birthdays were on Friday, February 13th!

Two summers ago, Joseph and Jenn got the news.
Two babies were coming; They’d have two names to choose.
‘Tho they may have felt scared…apprehensive….perhaps;
They just made it their quest – not bothering with naps.

Even with Mom in bed, they couldn’t wait any more
To start living the lives they just knew were in store!
First came Emmy so sweet; With spunk, she led the way.
Tiny Owen followed, knowing he’d be ok.

Their parents listened with joy to their little screams,
Knowing this was a good sign for their fam’ly’s dreams.
The two were whisked away and hooked up to lots of tubes -
Their home in the NICU in tiny plastic cubes.

It seemed like forever before to home they went.
Ryan began to learn what, to his life, this meant.
Emmy will often start testing out each new each step.
From trying something new, she just can't be kept.
Owen often seems content - just keeping his eye
On his sister's attempts before he wants to try.

Their unique temperaments have each been fun to see,
Having taken their turns at both sweet and grumpy.
And as they both have learned to move about the place.
Being first to make a mess appears to be a race.

Owen goes for the shoes and doesn’t seem to mind
If it’s a boy or girl’s shoe, he is first to find.
And wherever Emmy chooses her place to play
That sweet smile she can give drives any frown away.

While their parents may have gained a few more grey hairs,
These two have truly shown that good things come in pairs.

Happy Birthday Emmy and Owen!

Hubby Tag for Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T22:54:00.000-08:00

Where we met: At a Single Adult FHE group in Evanston, Wyoming

How long we dated before we got Hitched: About a year and a half

How long have we been married: It will be 6 years in June

What's my favorite feature about him: His hands - they're always warm and gentle and perfect - not too calloused or rough - but not girly - just perfect....

What is my favorite quality about him: He is really good at not caring what other people think, but just being himself. I also really like his consumer skills - he researches his possibilities, finds the best deal, checks out the consumer opinions, etc. It's fantastic. Me....I just buy the first good thing I see and move on to the next thing on my To-Do List.

What is his nickname for you: Honey or Wifey

His favorite Color: Blue

His favorite food: Whatever sounds good to him at that moment.

His favorite sport: He loved wrestling in high school - he doesn't really watch any sports now.

Who said the L word first: Me

First kiss, when and where: After we'd dated a little while, he was leaving my house and asked if he could kiss me goodnight. Of course, I said yes.

Favorite couple thing to do: Walk around random stores like Walmart, CalRanch, Smith & Edwards, etc.

How many kids: For now, we are content with our three, but we'll see...

His hidden talent: He is the best organizer, re-arranger ever. I'll come home from being gone and he'll have rearranged the furniture in some way I would have never even considered and it's perfect. He just has a really good idea of how to make the house functional.

His age: 34 - just like me (except for 1.5 months a year)

His favorite music: For his Valentine's Day present, I'm not going to touch this subject... ;)

What I admire most about him: How forgiving he is; also how much thought he puts into his decisions - he's really deliberate in what he does and says.

His favorite past times: playing computer games, reading, surfing the net for the latest great deals at Cabela's, Tiger Direct, NewEgg, etc type sites.

Will he read this: No, but he'll listen if I read it to him and he'll say, "Great" several times.

Cry For Help

2009-02-06T21:24:00.000-08:00

What do I get my husband for Valentine's Day? I can't beat last year's gift - I splurged and got him a gun he's been wanting. But I just want to give him something nice that is meaningful, but not expensive. Are their any wifes out there that have done something sweet I can copy....???

To complicate it just a little, we'll be out of town on vacation with all the kids...

Passing It On....

2009-02-06T11:52:00.000-08:00

My friend Marlene posted a clip from a news program that was fabulous. I highly recommend it. It's one of those feel-good things.... Just click on Marlene & Keri. It should be the latest post, Prepare to Shed a Few Tears of Joy. I didn't cry, but I sure smiled a lot.

Hometeaching

2009-01-29T12:45:00.000-08:00

Last night, Garrett's hometeaching companion had finally been able to find a time to meet with one of their hometeaching families, who have been really, really busy. Then, his work kept him out of town longer than planned and he called and asked Garrett to go without him. Garrett suggested that Jonathan go with him.

Jonathan was elated. We talked about our hometeachers - one of whom he calls our "special angel" (I think partly because he works out one of our local grocery stores and always gives the boys cookies). Jonathan remembered that a hometeacher is supposed to see how you're doing, so he practiced shaking hands and saying, "How are you?"

Then, he wanted to share a story like our hometeachers do and he picked Joseph Smith as the topic. He practiced on me and said (more or less - actually a lot more), "Joseph was a prophet who built a temple for Church Jesus Saints and Jesus was very proud of him." Then, he wanted to tell the family to stop drinking coffee - also his plan of what to do on his mission. We had to explain that whole thing for a while and finally, the two of them left.
I got this shot after they came home. Jonathan's talk is in his pocket (actually a paper from preschool with his name written in beans). Jonathan is standing in his hometeaching pose - I have no idea what his hands are doing - maybe it's a hammer in his right hand, ready to smash the cup of coffee in his left hand....

Happy Birthday Mel-Belle!

2009-01-25T21:23:00.000-08:00

A = the Angel that was born today.
B = your Birthday cheer – Hip, Hip, Horray!
C = the way your humor Charms us all.
D = the Delight I feel whenever you call!

E = your patience when I speak an Earfull.
F = those great Funny Faces you pull.
G = the Giggles we sisters all get;
H = Hard time as we try not to wet! ;)

I = the Immaculate house you keep.
J = the Joy you feel buying things cheap.
K = the Kcal’s you so caref’ly evade.
L = the Luscious recipes you’ve made.

M = your love of being a Mother!
N = Nurturing Brooke and her brother.
O = how you “Olvidar” other’s failings. (Spanish)
P = Patience with all of your callings.

Q = you never Quit - It seems you're always gone!
R = the way that you Ran it – your marathon!
S = your Study of the principles of wealth.
T = your Talent to care for your body's health

U = your Understanding of God’s plan.
V = the Volumes your kids learn at your hand.
W = your heart’s name, Beth, Will always be.
X = an “X”cellent sis - my Melanie.

Y = You’ve been such a choice sister and a friend;
Z = of my love for you, you won’t see “Z” end.
Mel, you're "Terrif" – Don’t you ever forget!
May your 27th year be the best yet!

Happy Birthday Princess Brooke!

2009-01-21T12:32:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time there lived a wise king and noble queen
Living such a carefree life in Land Destiny so green.
But there was something missing in this perfect life they led
“I think you need a baby,” a trusted servant calmly said.

They felt the truth of his words, got their castle all prepared.
Soon they welcomed little Brooke – though they still felt kind of scared.
And Brooke didn’t make things easy – Fussing and crying in the start
But it didn’t matter to her folks – She’d already won their hearts!

If to bed they gently laid her, hoping for a little rest,
She would decide not to nap, letting yells escape her chest.
The queen would lift her princess – giving her a little kiss
The King would say, “My Pumpkin – Oh! How you were missed!”

With this loving, kind atmosphere – the little princess grew
First came birthday number one, then two and three came too.
This year we’d like to wish Brooke Happy Birthday #4.
And we hope the princess has many, many more.

Happy Birthday Brooke!

Happy 1st Birthday Jacob!

2009-01-19T21:10:00.000-08:00

Our little Jacob's birthday was today.
Those little eyes have oh! so much to say.

At the age of one, he has learned quite well.

When his brothers tease, he knows how to yell.

Here he appears calm - without any care

But he's watching that his new toys stay there!Here he's nestled close in the arms of his dad
You would think he never ever could get mad
You can see it's easy to for us to love
This special boy who was a gift from above! Here is the before shot of the b-day cake.

Scroll right down to see the mess that he did make!

The joy he feels he surely will not hide;

Opening his mouth, he lets out what's inside!

Happy Birthday little Jacob! - We sure do love you!

Happy Birthday Corbin!

2009-01-16T08:41:00.000-08:00

For Garrett's family, the first grandson
Came from Aunt Mandi and Uncle Brandon.
All the wives of the oldest sons three
Were expecting each a little baby.

And each of those babies were boys, it's true!
Painting parent's lives with the color blue.
And the first baby came five years ago today.
In Mandi's arms for the first time he did lay.

Corbin has grown to quite a little man,
Helping out his parents, his growing body can.
Wrestling, playing, running with those bright eyes!
Exploring it all - I'm sure that he tries.

Corbin, on this special day of your birth -
Your anniversary of coming down to Earth.
Your aunts and uncles and growing cousins too
Send a huge hug and happy birthday to you!

And What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up....

2009-01-15T20:37:00.000-08:00

So, Jonathan decided what he wants to be when he grows up....

After his mission, he's going to ride his horse up to outer space and find the planet with the dinosaurs and kill them with his sword and then go to the "Jesus Planet" and visit Jesus. Then, he's coming back to put the dinosaur bones in a "zoozeum" (museum). Then, he's going to come back home and give me a hug and kiss because I'll have really missed him.

And he's right....I will have really missed him.

Happy Birthday Garrett (once again)!

2009-01-13T19:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the birthday of my lover and my friend
The man I hope I be with until the very end.

If you need some help planning to go out of doors
Or need a food you can cook on a fire (besides s’mores).

If you ever shoot your gun and your bullet is a dud.
Or if you wonder what made the track in the mud.

If something gets broken and is impossible to fix
Or if you need to make a fire with only wooden sticks!

If you need someone who is the world’s greatest listener
Or if you wonder whose lips are the finest kissers.

Well – all this describes the Garrett of my heart
And just the tip of the iceburg of the talents in his kart!

And as the saying goes from the 80’s, he is rad!
And I’m the lucky girl whose kids can call him dad.

Happy Brithday Garrett!

2009-01-11T17:13:00.000-08:00

I haven't gotten Garrett's poem done yet, but we're going to celebrate his birthday tomorrow, so maybe I get an extra day....He's been at work this whole weekend, so we are hoping to surprise him today. When he finishes work, this is what he'll find in his truck.

I hope that when he sees it.......he's still willing to come home.....We love you Garrett!

P.S. By the way, I've added some pictures to the entries Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday Eugene...

Happy Birthday Rachel!

2009-01-11T13:04:00.000-08:00

My parent’s first grandchild is Rachel kind and sweet.
Her bible name is one I always thought was neat.
From the start, her personality was very strong.
And you had take care not to look at her wrong.

But since then she has grown and has changed even more
And though she can be quiet – she’s one you won’t want to ignore!
With her huge, contagious smile and her lovely, golden hair
She could sing and dance her way to the arms of Fred Estair.

Today is her birthday – She’s up to number six,
So she’s getting more and more of those candlesticks.
And from our small family – we’d like to send our best
To our darling Rachel – Our favorite in all the west!

Happy Birthday Rachel!!!

OB1 KaJonathan

2009-01-09T15:13:00.000-08:00

We gave Jonathan and Gabe lightsabers for Christmas. Star Wars is a favorite around our house and they always got so excited when they saw these at the store.

So the other day, I see Jonathan giving Gabe his lightsaber and he explains, "Gabe, remember, THIS is your life."

For those of you who aren't familiar with this phrase, it's one that OB1 Kanobee says to young Anakin Skywalker as he trains him to be a Jedi Knight!

Happy Birthday Grandma LaVene!

2009-01-09T15:12:00.000-08:00

Here’s a story of a very special little girl
Who grew to a woman – an “of great price” pearl.
Her life, one might say, had a sad sort of start;
At three years old, she lost the mother of her heart.
But blessed she was with another woman grand
Who made home a place where love did abound.

Within that loving home, my grandma changed and grew.
In the eyes of a handsome soldier, she was quite a view.
And he asked for her hand from my great grandpa
And Oh! What a treasure he caught in that paw.
They started their lives together and in twenty more years
Three boys and five girls came with blood, sweat, and tears.

A few more years later, the grandkids started to come
Of this couple’s great posterity, I am but one.
At Grandma’s side, I’ve spent hours and hours,
Assisting in cooking, cleaning, gardens and flowers.
In fact, one of my earliest memories was so cool
She took me to her first grade class at school.

Because we always lived so close to her home
I went with her and grandpa the country for to roam.
Always willing to talk to me when I had a need
Grandma’s ability to talk is a talent indeed!
But it’s just one of the things that she could do
To magnify her family in the eyes of not a few!

Caring for people is a great talent of my grandpa’s wife
Spending time with loved ones at the end of their life.
So willing to serve and when the tables are turned
A big hearty thank you – she’s sure you have earned!
This nurturing woman is good with people of all kinds
From young to old - She doesn’t seem to mind.

Grandma, You've been the perfect grandma for me.
I'm so thankful to be part of your posterity.
You're one of the "noble and great" of my life.
A huge happy birthday to my grandpa's wife!

Happy Birthday Grandpa Eugene!

2009-01-09T15:11:00.000-08:00

Today I will send (if my writing mind can)
A big happy birthday for Garrett’s old man
Now – “Old” is a relative term, I have heard
And Eugene is my relative – in a word.
He’s lived for a while – experiencing plenty
And he knows much more than he did at twenty.

“And what has he done since twenty?” you ask.
Well, I will tell you the little I know of his past.
Since my husband Garrett was only a wee little lad,
The local boyscout leader was almost always his Dad.
Hunting and fishing, guns, safety, knots, and knives
He made this great program a huge part of their lives.

Another great concept instilled in his childrens’ heads
Somewhere between wrestling mats and their bunk beds
He taught them how to be consumers truly great
And how to make sure their deals are first rate.
Now I can tell you this skill does come in handy
When checking out things from cars to red candy.

But finally, he showed by example most steady
That for sharing the gospel – Always be ready.
Fulfilling your duties at church is a must.
For in you Lord has place his great trust.
Dad – Happy Birthday – You’ve done a great job
May a joyous birthday from you not be robbed!

We had such a great time with you and Grandma this weekend.
Have a fantastic b-day!

Happy Birthday Hadley!

2009-01-07T15:18:00.000-08:00

In the family of Brandon and Mandi,
There are three sweet young fellows handy.
The middle child has a birthday today
To Hadley we send out a birthday horay!

His smiles brings all joy
He’s mommy’s sweet boy
The toys he is hoardin’
To keep some from Corbin.
At least one cool toy and no less.

That’s how sharing’s covered
When you’ve got older brothers.
His dad could have taught him
‘bout the times Garrett got him
They all survive it, I guess!

Happy Birthday, Hadley!

Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-12-23T09:06:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-21T21:36:00.001-08:00

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!

2008-12-21T21:26:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-12-21T21:16:00.001-08:00

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!

2008-12-17T02:01:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-12-15T20:46:00.001-08:00

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...

2008-12-13T21:48:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Festival of Trees

2008-12-09T19:10:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-09T18:59:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-12-02T15:19:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-30T10:30:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-23T21:04:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-21T21:10:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-19T14:40:00.001-08:00

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!

2008-11-17T00:01:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-12T07:58:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-12T07:53:00.001-08:00

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

2008-11-02T14:48:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-10-31T13:50:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-10-27T09:33:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-10-23T10:12:00.001-07:00

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

2008-10-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-23T09:26:00.000-07:00

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...

2008-10-23T09:22:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-10-23T09:06:00.001-07:00

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!

2008-10-16T10:51:00.001-07:00

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!

2008-10-14T20:43:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-10-14T20:29:00.001-07:00

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

2008-10-12T05:43:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-10-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

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