Life with the Leavitts

Holidays

2012-01-13T10:35:00.000-08:00

Our holidays were super busy as usual. We spent Thanksgiving and Christmas at home this year. The first week of December, Taylor had surgery on her other knee, so we camped out at home to help her hobble around for a few weeks.
Since Christmas was on Sunday this year, and we have sacrament at 8:00 a.m., Mike and I decided to prank the kids. We put all the Christmas gifts into big boxes and wrapped them (yes, even the stockings!) We didn't want them going through stuff and not getting ready for church. Yes, we were up half the night! Of course, we ended up being the ones pranked in the end. Tris woke up just before I was done wrapping, with the stomach flu and ended up keeping me up the entire night. Mike got Levi and Jordan to church since he was the Sunday speaker, and Levi had to sing in sacrament. After church, we got to eat breakfast and then open presents. Poor Tris, he had a hard day! Needless to say, I didn't get many pictures of Christmas!
A few days after Christmas, Mike and I flew to Hawaii! Taylor and Jordan were left in charge. I was a nervous wreck!
We had a great room at a resort in Ko Olina. It was so nice to get away with just Mike and spend time together without the daily concerns of work or chores. We loved Hawaii. My favorite things were: the Polynesian Cultural Center, watching surf competition, the Dole plantation, sleeping in, and the amazing fireworks on new years!

Mike LOVES turtles!

View from our balcony


balcony view

All my life I have heard my dad go on and on about his "Foster luck!", which by the way, is not good luck, but the worst luck you can think of. My siblings all tell me that I have inherited the Foster luck. The following is an example of how that luck followed us to Hawaii. Keep in mind that on the plane to Hawaii, I read an article in a magazine about luck. It was all about how people make their own luck. If you are positive, and think things are going to work out in your favor, they will. I was very excited about being more positive and changing my luck.

We had heard from a surfer in a surf shop one day that there were going to be amazing waves in a few days and we should be at Sunset Beach to watch the surf competition that would surely be going on. I was so excited to see it! I haven't had much experience with the ocean. I have only been to the ocean a few times, and I wanted to see some surfing! We started out the day sleeping in (Yay!), then heading to the Dole plantation for lunch and more pineapple. It was going great. Then we found the beach. There was very little parking as it was such a great surf day, and to my surprise, we found a perfect parking spot. Right there, was a sign to not leave valuables in the car as they could easily be stolen. I grabbed my purse and my camera, ready to take some amazing shots of surfers.


lots of spectators

There were lots of people on the beach with the same idea as us. The waves were magnificent. We found a spot to sit on our towel and watch the surfers. Of course, not 5 minutes later, a big wave sent a small pool of water right up to us and got us a bit wet. Mike and I laughed about it and called the kids to tell them how funny it was. We also decided not to sit down, and move back quite a bit so that wouldn't happen again and get Mike's shoes wet. The sun started to set, and the waves got much bigger. They were all crashing way out though, nothing dangerous. I got this picture of a boogie boarder about to set out to the big waves. Her little son was cheering her on from beside us.

I started to feel bad about making Mike stand around so long, but I didn't want to leave. I asked him several times if he was ready to leave, but he knew I was really enjoying the view so we stuck around. I told him that I felt like the waves wanted to come all the way up to us and grab us to take us out to the ocean. It was so awesome!

I snapped this picture of us with my new camera that I got just for this trip. I love the smile on that man!
Not long after, a huge wave crashed to the left of us. We were watching the waves in front of us. We didn't see the wave, but I saw water coming towards our feet. I told Mike we should hurry back to the steps up the bank, and just as we turned and started to run back, (picture my hands full with a wet towel, flip flops, purse on my shoulder, and a camera around my neck), the water rushed in up past our knees, knocking us all over. It dragged me a few feet, and I was sure it would take me out to the ocean. A surfer a few feet away tried to run over and grab me, but the wave was very powerful. I ended up digging my feet and one free hand into the sand and let the water run over my whole body before it headed back to it's ocean home. Meanwhile, my purse filled up like a balloon with water and sand. Mike and I were completely soaked! My first reaction was to laugh. It was pretty funny. Then I looked down at my camera, and my purse with my Iphone in it, and knew this was the Foster luck at it again! Mike had his phone in his pocket. It was ruined too. The surfers who lived right there said "Whoa, where did that come from?" We made our way back to the car along with the MANY other spectators that were soaked head to toe as we were. We were both covered in sand. I dumped my purse out, and about 5 cups of sand came out with it. I took the memory card with these pictures on it out of the camera right away, hoping to at least save them and have evidence of our trip. Then we went to find a replacement phone and head back to our room. We had sand EVERYWHERE on our bodies. It was a memorable day. We determined that to replace what was ruined, it was going to cost us $1500. That was one expensive sunset!
In all, we spent 9 days in Hawaii. It was great. I missed my kids though, and now I really miss having a phone. I have to wait a while to replace mine.
I have also decided that Foster luck is just part of my life. I will still try to be positive and make my own luck, but it may take a while for me to not expect crazy and expensive catastrophes to hit me like a rogue wave!

All sorts of stuff

2011-10-12T16:09:00.000-07:00

Soccer, band, and holidays are upon us! All of these things have the family so busy. We love it though. The girls have had several performances already. They are really good, only they won't admit it. They are true music nerds. After every performance, they both tell us how awful they were, but to us, they sound awesome! Besides, they both look so cute in their "suits". It's hard to get good pictures of them on stage. The lights are always weird, and I rarely get good seats with all my other kids.
Taylor on piano, and Jordan right behind on trumpet

Monday, we went to Willcox to go to Apple Annie's. This year we were joined by our friends, the Gores (aka boys best friends!), and the Haws'. We started off on a hayride, picked some huge pumpkins, went to the enormous corn maze (took forever!), and ended at the apple orchard to buy pie and other yummy stuff. Then we all headed to the local bbq place. It is a diner in an old caboose. All in all, it was a really fun day. Now we are almost ready for Halloween and Thanksgiving.

At the pumpkin patch

All through the corn maze Jaxson was looking for the number 6. He was very proud of himself for finding it.

He found it!

17 kids just with our group on the hayride.

Hayride

pout time

Back to school again

2011-08-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

This summer has flown by. I can't believe that the kids have already started school again. It was a very busy summer, but it was also pretty uneventful. We didn't even make it to the zoo once this summer! Oh well, it's nice to be back in the swing of things again now that we are on a schedule for school. Jordan started high school (9th grade), and Taylor is a senior this year. I'm glad they have one year together. I'm also glad Taylor can drive them to school at 6:30 in the morning. Jordan has really struggled with the first 2 days of school. We have determined that she suffers from anxiety, and she has a hard time dealing with the change of going from a relatively large middle school to an enormous high school. Yesterday she was panicking on the way to school and was sick several times during the day. Today she made Taylor bring her home as soon as she got to school cause she was feeling so nauseous. I had to take her in later and introduce her to the school nurses. I hope she learns to deal with it. It is really a hard thing to have to deal with. On a good note, Levi and Tristan don't have to be to the bus until almost 8. I'm liking the new later start! Anyway, I have no photos to post of the kids first day. I took them on my phone, and that is now off being repaired. This aims to be the busiest year of my life, so I can only hope to document it more as I'm sure it will all be a blur. This week I also start my women's soccer league. I am more excited about it this time around!

Cabin vacation

2011-06-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

Last week we took our family to Prescott for a vacation. I found a cabin (luxury house really) for rent up on Mount Vernon. We had the whole place to ourselves for a whole week. Some of you may know that I am not known for having good luck (picture a dark rain cloud over my head at all times!). Well, this proved to be true when on the way up the mountain to the cabin we found that neither my van nor Taylor's car would make it up the steep road to the house. But, my brother Allen who was not cursed with bad luck, was leading the way in his truck which had no problems once it was put into 4 wheel drive. So, for the last week, we had to squeeze my family into a truck to drive around Prescott in (Thanks Allen!).


View from the patio.


cabin


view from my bedroom loft


My boys and Allen's girls


funny kids


hike up the driveway

swing that goes over the ledge to a death drop!

On the way up the mountain, I realized that the cabin we were in was not far from where I went to girls camp as a youth. It brought back fun memories. Also, on the way up the mountain, my girls decided that they don't like "nature". They had spotty cell phone and internet service (hee hee), and they both had a bit of anxiety on the super steep drive up. Oh yeah, and there was no shopping or neighbors in sight!
The cabin was beautiful. It had 3 stories, 2 kitchens, full laundry, luxury bathrooms, just amazing. Of course, going back to my luck, the bottom floor was out of propane for the hot water, so no showering and no hot water for laundry down there. After the first 2 days, the air conditioner on the 2 upper floors quit working (too hot!), and the house was on such a steep incline, that I was a bit scared to let the kids play outside so the boys were instantly bored. Ahhh, vacationing with the Leavitts is always memorable.

We spent some time every day in "town" shopping, eating, and going to movies. We also got to spend some time with Allen and his family who we love so much.


Jordan sitting in the ramada on Prescott square

Then, on Friday and Saturday, I had a chance to go to my 20 year high school reunion. It was pretty great to see some of the people I loved so much in my teen years. It was also a bit nerve wracking for me. My graduating class had over 400 students. It really was a great class. I knew almost everyone in my grade except for a few people who were social introverts. The stressful part for me was that although I knew most everyone there, I never spent much time with them outside of high school. I didn't really know them well enough to be comfortably social with them after 20 years of not keeping in touch. Despite my anxiety, I had a very good time and did find people (Chino friends mostly) to reminisce with and who I enjoyed reconnecting with.


Vel made me laugh with her name tag.

A few new friends and one old one.

Me and Kevin Harper

Shawna, Heather, Keri, Allen, and me

My old gym where I spent most of my time.

Keri, Joann, and me

After over a week away, we were all ready to come home. When we left Sierra Vista, I watched a huge smoke cloud billow and grow in my rear view mirror (Monument fire). Yesterday when we came home, I was so happy to see rain clouds covering the mountain that has been ravaged by fire. It's good to be home.

monument fires

2011-06-16T10:04:00.000-07:00

We have lived in Sierra Vista for 8 years now. The weather is really great here. It is a beautiful area. Our town was built at the base of the mountains which are so majestic and lovely. Right now, they are on fire, as is much of AZ. So far, almost 10,000 acres have burned, and they expect much more in the next few days. Today, pre-evacuations have started for an area that covers our ward. Amidst all the chaos of the fire and all it entails, life just goes on for the rest of us. It did seem strange driving out to the church for scouts with the mountain on fire in the background. I hope and pray for rain and calm winds to slow the fire and keep it from getting even more out of control. I have been taking just a few pictures of what I can see from my neck of the woods. It doesn't look as bad as the pics taken at night. CRAZY.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

On the way to church

Wednesday view from church parking lot

night photo taken by someone else.

Soccer!

2011-05-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

This past fall, I joined a women's soccer league. It has been so much fun playing with a bunch of other ladies. This season we changed our name from the "pink ladies" to the "prankstars". Mike and I coach the team. The women on our team are amazing and fun to be around. Last night we had our end of the season soccer dinner at Hana Tokyo. We got to watch the chef cook our food in front of us and throw food at us to catch in our mouths. After dinner, we had cake and passed out award certificates for everyone. I had such a good time. I met some ladies through soccer that I hope to be friends with for a very long time. Next fall should be fun!

Kristen wants to murder me.

Tabby and Jessica

Coaches

Cole and Maria

prom and more

2011-05-17T15:56:00.000-07:00

All dressed up

A few weeks ago, Taylor had Prom. She decided to go with 2 of her friends. Before the dance, Mike and I went over to her friend's house to take pictures. I still haven't learned how to use my camera as well as I should, but here are some pictures of the girls. They looked beautiful. Poor Taylor wasn't feeling too great and ended up having to leave the dance early. At least she got to show off her beautiful dress!

Shoes!


Double "T" (Taylor and Tessa)

This last week, the boys have said some pretty funny things. I thought I would record them on here since this is my "journal" of sorts. I overheard Levi and Tristan talking the other day. This is how it went:
Tris - It's weird that Grandpa is bald and mom isn't.
Levi - That's because Grandpa is black and mom is white!
That was news to me. I got a really good laugh out of that one.

My dad and his bald "dark" skin!

Then a few days later, Tristan told me, "mom, we are part Italian! I said, "no, I don't think so. Why do you think we are?". He responds, "because we have Italian food all the time!"
Hmm, that was another thing I didn't know. Those kids make me laugh!

My crazy boys

Easter fun

2011-04-26T14:24:00.000-07:00

This Easter was so much fun. My big sister Valerie decided she needed a vacation from work, so we all got together at Nicole's house to see her and Krystal (it's been a while since we've seen those 2!). Friday night we loaded up the family and headed to Phoenix. Saturday, Nicole, Valerie and I did our last minute Easter shopping together, and by the time we got back to Nic's house, Allen and his family were there. We spent the day visiting, cooking, and watching kids act like maniacs. It is exhausting watching all those kids run around all day!

Mike raiding the lolipops

Jordan trying to get some Easter stuff before the little ones got it all.

Just some of the kids.

Showing off the goods

Easter Sunday we all got up and went to sacrament meeting together. We took up 2 whole pews and nearly doubled the size of Nicole's ward. It's the first time we've all been to church together in who knows how many years. Then we went home to let the kids hunt for eggs and pick from Aunt Valerie's lollipop garden.

We had a huge meal (yummy scones too!) and gained a few pounds. Then we headed home to sleep like we haven't slept in weeks. I think it made for fun memories for years to come.

Cousins!

Add caption

Spring and derby

2011-04-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

Spring is upon us at last. We had a fun spring break this year. I took Jordan and my boys up to Chino Valley to start off the week of spring break. We were lucky enough to watch my nephew wrestle in a tournament and then watch my niece in a soccer tournament.


my nephew Kendall (super cool kid)

my niece #3 Lauren (she's awesome!)

Then we went to my sister's house in Phoenix to celebrate mine and Allen's birthday. I love hanging out with my family!
While I was in Chino, I took a drive past my old neighborhood. I had my camera with me so I decided to take some pics. When we were kids, Allen and I and our friends used to ride our bikes down a hill and up another one to this "cliff". We used to run and jump off it to see who could get the farthest. It still looks pretty steep to me, and I'm surprised none of us broke an arm or leg doing it.


the cliff

Across from the cliff is an OLD stable station. I used to walk there whenever I was struggling with the difficulties of youth, and watch the sun start to set or take a solitary picnic there. I'm surprised it is still standing . . . somewhat.

stable in the distance. It's fenced off now.

Then driving back to Allen's house, I noticed all the tumbleweeds. We have lots of them in Sierra Vista too, but nothing like in Chino Valley. It is beautiful in it's own way.

tumbling tumbleweeds!

When we got back home to our place, we had to get Levi ready for his pinewood derby race in Tucson. He won his pack and his district, so he got to race in the council. He placed 2nd.


getting his derby pin


Levi with his trophy

Mike says he has ice running through his veins cause he just didn't get nervous one bit. He was really just there to have fun. I'm happy he did so well with his first experience in pinewood derby for scouting.
Later that night, Jordan got recognized for earning her personal progress in Young Women's. We were so proud of her. She was the youngest one to receive it (13) and she really finished it about 6 months ago.

Spring is a really busy time around here, but we love it so much!

Adult ADD

2011-03-04T10:56:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I think I must suffer from adult attention deficit disorder. I have way too many interests and things I want to learn to do. I can't keep my focus on any one project for too long before I see something else I want to try. It can be frustrating (especially for my family) because I often will start a project, find something else I want or need to do, and not get around to finishing that project for a while. I also tend to start something, be completely focused on it, and realize that I forgot to go to the grocery store, and it's 5 o'clock with nothing ready for dinner. I started this blog with such great intentions. I planned on blogging often and using it as a journal of sorts. I even take pictures often to remind myself to post them and write of my life. Then, my mind will start spinning about projects, projects, projects, and I don't get around to posting them. Oh well, at least those that know me well know it is just part of my personality to be "flighty". Anyway, here is a bit of what's been going on here:

We had a pretty fun Valentine's at the Leavitt's. The Saturday before, Mike and I went to Tucson with our friends Jared and Buffy. We went to Pei Wei for dinner and ate way more than should have been possible. Afterwards we went to the movies. It was great to get out and have adult conversation with two people we really like to hang out with. On Valentine's day, we made the kids cheese steak sandwiches as they requested it, and had the Bartholets over for dinner and to dance with us (dance central for the kinect is so fun!). I made these Valentine jars for the kids for their gifts. They aren't really enthusiastic about anything that isn't cash money, but I think they liked these well enough.

from this

to this

Then the next weekend, we went out and broke in all of our paintball gear. It was so fun. The whole family went and spent the day out in the wind shooting eachother with pleasure. There were 3 other families with us which made it so fun. Taylor and Levi are sharpshooters who tend to win most of the games we played. We decided that we are going to have a family paintball tournament just as soon as we can schedule everyone down to S.V. for it. We even went this week and bought a bunch of camo gear for those who don't have any, and more guns.

Taylor and RayJay

Mike, Jordan, and friends

Buffy talking to people I don't recognize in their gear

Beautiful warrior Taylor

Tris getting ready for action!

Another interest that has kept me busy is Women's soccer. Yup, it started up again and Mike is ~~bullying~~ coaching us around this season again. I will get team pictures up soon.
And to top off our craziness, the new office is coming along and lots of decisions have had to be made about it. They hope to be moved in by the end of May I think, but I don't remember for sure.

Some other things I want or plan on doing is another subway art like this one,

refinishing the other dresser, making slip covers for 2 chairs, and making a new comforter for my bed. Oh yeah, and learn how to really use my camera, clean out the garage, have a yard sale, organize storage unit, spring clean the house, and so many other things. I guess I better go to the grocery store now before I forget to make dinner tonight!

Autobots roll out!

2011-01-29T12:13:00.000-08:00

Ready to race!

Fast car

Today was Levi's first pinewood derby. A few weeks ago he chose a design, and let Jordan tweak it a bit. She just finished an aerodynamic segment in class a few weeks ago and was sure that her design would help him win. After a bit of discussion, Levi decided he wanted his car to be black and yellow. Then when we painted it yellow, he thought it looked like bumblebee, so we cut out some vinyl autobot symbols and stripes to put on it. Basically, we painted and put the decals on it last night. Then this morning Mike took him over to a friend's house to get the wheels fixed up and moving fast (Thanks Russ!). The graphite got smeared on the yellow paint, and it looked AWESOME! Mike was worried I might get frustrated with how it turned out, but I love how it looks like it has been around the block a time or two. Kinda like the first Bumblebee


Looks about the same right?

Anyway, we had to tear some weights off of Tristan's car from last summer and put them on Levi's car. We got it to meet the exact weight requirement with no problems. Levi wasn't enthusiastic about the race at all until his first turn when his car SMOKED his opponent.


Some of the competition

Who will win?

Then he couldn't settle down. He won all his races with time to spare, and had the fastest car in his pack.


"car talk"

Next Saturday he gets to go race against other pack winners. Now he is really excited about it! It was fun. We were told by several people that now we have a reputation to keep up. Ha! That made me laugh since we didn't do much to this one. Now Tristan can't wait til he is in scouts and can race in the derby.

Tris with his old car and a buddy.

Racing Champ!

Way to start off the new year!

2011-01-19T10:18:00.000-08:00

We are starting off the new year in typical Leavitt family fashion, sick. Last week was a week I will gladly forget. All of us, yes, all 7 of us got stomach flu. Tristan started us all off early in the week, and every day another one of us fell. Thursday was memorable since it was the first time I have had 3 kids throwing up simultaneously. Talk about the laundry! But, even with sick kids in the house, life doesn't slow down. Mike got sick too, but refused to stay home from work. The girls had presidency meetings, school projects, and I have my dressers to refinish (more on that in a bit!). By Saturday, the boys were feeling better which was convenient since we had a birthday party and an eagle court of honor to attend. The weather was great for a party at the park.

Jax enjoying the park

I love Tristan's excited face in the back.

Mike however, was positively GREEN when he was presenting at the court of honor. I remember feeling very nervous about getting sick since I teach RS on the 3rd Sunday. We now start church at 8 a.m., so it makes it really bad when you have to call in sick! I was pretty happy that I hadn't been sick yet, but at around 2 a.m. on Sunday, it hit me like a ton of bricks. I was down for the count and stuck in the bathroom all morning. The kids all missed a bunch of school, and I thought "okay, now we've all had it, everyone will be back to normal and not missing school!" Wrong! Last night Tristan started coughing like he had croup. NICE!! So, he's home today, and I'm starting to feel my glands swell up and my throat start to hurt. COME ON! This is so not cool.

On a good note, last night my little sister Nicole, Taylor, her friend, and I all went to Tucson to see Wicked. I loved it. I smiled the whole time. I cheered and clapped so hard every chance I got. I want to go again. I was a bit sad throughout since Taylor's friend got sick on the way to Tucson. Yup, you got it. She had finally got the flu bug we had just got over. She couldn't eat the awesome pizza at Grimaldi's (my favorite!), she couldn't get comfy through the show, we had to find new clothes for her to wear, it was sad. But the show was so great that it made up for the sadness. Nicole says I just attract vomit. Hmmm, she could have a point there. We didn't get good pictures. No cameras are allowed and we didn't want to risk leaving one in the car. This is the best we could do.


Double "T" (Taylor and Tessa)

Me and Nic

So, as I mentioned earlier, I've been ~~trying to but can't cause I'm dealing with puking kids~~ working on a project this last week. I scored some cute dressers off craigslist in Tucson for $40/pair. They are pretty rough and need a lot of work. I was determined to start the year off right and not put off projects that I have on my list. I started out feeling very lucky. I found drawer slides just the right size, and a new top for the dresser that was exact (this stuff never happens for me so I thought maybe my luck is starting to change!). Anyway, the project got put on hold after all the puking began, but I am about to finish ONE dresser today. The other one I hope to do next week. I love how it turned out and am anxious to start the next one.


not in the best shape


yes, it looks purple. I hate the handles too.


wood veneer peeling off side


nearly finished!


looks so much better.

The holidays

2011-01-07T13:59:00.000-08:00

Once again, time is flying by. It seems like just last week was Thanksgiving, and it is already January! We had a lot of fun this holiday season. It was too warm to ever feel like Christmas though. We had some record highs for December (80 + degrees for lots of it).
Every year, I notice that I have 1 kid who is especially excited for Christmas. This year that one was Tristan. He started worrying that he was "naughty" too much this year early in December. He wondered what he would be getting, and tried to guess who all the presents were for and what was in them. He was so cute! Jax also got into the spirit of things. He wanted to draw pictures of snowmen, santa, trees, and presents. I had a hard time feeling the mood of the season with it being so warm, so I blared holiday music a lot this year!
Christmas eve found us watching our old stand by, National Lampoons Christmas Vacation. Taylor did all of our baking this year, and then went to a Christmas performance to watch her friend Tessa sing. That night the boys were too excited to go to bed early. We let them stay up a bit late, and fortunately for us they slept in til after 8!

Let us open up presents already!

Tris is always a good sport!

Santa was good to us this year. He brought paintball gear for us so we can go out into the desert and shoot each other. Now we just have to find the time to do that! I got the camera I have been bugging Mike to get me, and we got an IPAD from Todd at his Christmas party. We also had time to spend together all day and think about our blessings. That night Mike made wontons (mmmm) so we were all a bit too full to eat our huge Christmas dinner. It was so nice.

Christmas dinner with our cracker crowns

Then last week, we decided to head to Phoenix to celebrate the new year. We left on Wednesday, and went straight to Dave and Busters to meet some friends of ours from Washington that we haven't seen in ages. It was so great to see the Bagleys and catch up on life. They were our best friends when we lived in OKC and were in school. I still consider them some of my closest friends and will always treasure them.

Thursday was a fun day too. We went to Mesa to buy some stuff from the beehive clothing, and while eating lunch, it started to snow. It's not often you see snow in Mesa! Later that night we went to visit our other close friends, the Farlee family. Clay was one of my buddies growing up, and we were fortunate enough to be around (in the same ward even) when he met his true love Sara. They are more like family than friends, and we love hanging out with them. We had dinner and played games til late in the night. I can't wait to visit them again soon.

Friday was New Year's Eve. We spent half the day running errands, and then went to my sister Nicole's house to celebrate. Mike thought it would be fun to shoot firecrackers off this year since AZ finally decided to allow it. He bought a whole box of them for each of the kids to shoot off. We played games to keep all of us adults awake til midnight, and then Nicole encouraged the kids to jump in the pool. It was 37 degrees outside! Only a few of the kids were brave enough to do it. Then we shot off all the firecrackers. Mike was the only adult to stay outside, and the rest of us watched from the picture window cause it was just so cold out! Mike is like a kid when he gets around firecrackers, and it was fun to watch him with all those kids and FIRE!

The polar bear club!

fireworks in the back yard

Saturday was yet another fun packed day. We took Jax over to Nicole's house, and the rest of us went to the Fiesta Bowl. My brother Allen and his son Kendall went with us. We were so happy to be there and cheer for Mike's team! It was Levi and Tristan's first game, and they had so much fun. We sat with friends and were even right across the aisle from the Bagleys! Clay and his boys were there too and toward the end of the game they came and joined us. We got excellent seats, and had so much fun. Taylor was a bit embarrassed by my hootin and hollerin, but I couldn't help myself. All in all, it was a super fun trip.


Mike, me and Allen


the family before the game


the view from our seats


The Farlee boys

This week though, it was back to the schedule of work, school, and nap time. I love having a schedule. It is now 2011, and I hope this year will be even better than last!

an ode to places other than Sierra Vista

2010-12-18T22:21:00.000-08:00

Around this time of year, I get really nostalgic. It actually starts when fall hits and lasts through the holidays. Tonight I was thinking how I really miss the places I have been and where I have lived that aren't Sierra Vista. Don't get me wrong, I don't hate it here. I will likely ~~be stuck here~~ live here the rest of my life. I have found ways of being happy here. The weather is great, I have superb friends, Mike has a great job, and my kids like their schools. But there is something missing here. Something that makes me sad, and wish we lived somewhere else. The first thing that really bothers me, especially around this time of year, is the lack of history here. There is no "center", no "downtown", no "historic" neighborhoods. I remember when I was very young, my parents would take us kids to "downtown" Safford at Christmas time to see the lights, and look in the store windows. One store had a mechanical Santa that was sleeping in a store window. His belly would move up and down like he was breathing. I was there just a few days ago. The Santa hasn't been around for decades, but the lights are great, and the feel of Christmas (despite the warmth) was there.

Downtown Safford

As I got older, I have found that I love historic buildings. Living in the Prescott area instilled that for me. I loved ~~cruising~~ driving downtown with my friends and looking at all the old buildings. Even the run down ones! I especially loved it around Christmas time when the courthouse was all lit up. I dreamed ~~still do~~ of some day being able to buy one of the old Victorian homes there and refurbishing it. I toured the old hotels, and imagined being a guest there 100 years ago! Just thinking about spending time there makes me happy!

Downtown Prescott

When we moved to Oklahoma, the only place we could afford was a little ~~run down~~ 2 bedroom house. I loved that little house. It had old wood floors, old ceramic tile, and these windows that were painted shut that just made me feel nostalgic. What I liked most about that old house though, was that 3 houses down from us began the street with bigger, beautiful, and even older homes (I imagined our house was "servant's quarters for these homes). I loved taking walks down the street and just staring at the houses. Then I found out about other even older and fancier homes that I could drive around and dream about. I spent lots of time driving slow and craning my head out the window to "admire" old homes. And in OKC, there is an old "downtown". There is now a huge memorial there to commemorate those who died in the bombing. There are also hockey games we would go to, fireworks, art shows, races of all sorts, and HISTORY!

Central High in OKC

Mike and I had a chance to visit New Orleans a few years ago. I loved everything about it. The historic cemeteries, the crusty old buildings, the refurbished mansions, and the tiny apartments covered with character.

the oldest pub in New Orleans

I even love visiting Bisbee with all the strange hippie people that live there!

downtown Bisbee

Sierra Vista is a newer town. The "center" here is the park ~~LAME~~. Even if someone were to create a downtown or strip here, it wouldn't be authentic, and wouldn't hold the character that I crave. The weather is a bit TOO nice for me too. I want 4 seasons, and we really only get 2. I know that there are people who would trade me in a heartbeat to get out of their winter right now, but right now I'm yearning for places other than Sierra Vista.

My folks

2010-12-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

My mom and dad are funny people. They are "old school", and if any of you know them well, you know just what I mean. My dad is such a generous and kind old guy. My mom is funny and lovingly affectionate. I have found that if I ever am feeling down about myself for any reason, I have only to call or visit my folks, and then I'm showered with praise and love. It pulls me right up! Yesterday was one of those days for me. I had the chance to drive to Thatcher to go to the temple. I knew my folks would be there since my dad works there every Wednesday night. I got there a bit early. After I changed, I came out to find my mom and her twin sister coming in the dressing room. They were excited to see me and we hugged and kissed. Then I went into the chapel to wait for them. My dad came to the door to talk to one of the workers there. He didn't know I was going to be there, so when I went up to greet him, he was full of surprise. I love it when he is happy like that! It was great to see him all decked out in his white suit. It was also really cool to see my dad officiate in the session. I was very proud of him, and my mom couldn't stop gushing praise of him. It is a big deal to us since all my life dad wasn't one to attend the temple much. When each of us kids got married, we had to give him time to make sure he had a recommend. Now he is working at the temple once or twice a week, and he loves it.


Dad at Levi's baptism.

After our session, I took my mom and Aunt Shirley out to dinner. Of course, people had to ask them about being twins because they had to go and dress alike. It is so cute. I used to be embarrassed by how much my mom and her sister would play up being identical twins. Mostly because they used to try to dress me and my brother, and twin cousins alike. Now I think it is adorable (as long as I don't have to dress like Allen!). This spring they will be 70 years old. I am so glad they live close enough to spend time together each week. They also informed me that if one of their spouses dies first, they will move in with the other for the rest of their lives. So sweet!


Mom and Aunt Shirley

I left feeling uplifted from my temple service, but also feeling much love from my family who gushed love and compliments to me. I really needed that, and I hope they know how much they are loved!

License and More

2010-12-09T08:51:00.000-08:00

This week Taylor got her license. She was so excited and nervous to take her test, but passed with flying colors. Now I have to get up enough nerve to just let her drive places without an adult in the car with her. It was great to see her so happy and proud. She has also started to play the sax again in band which she really likes. Taylor has some proud parents!

16 already!

This month has been jammed full of fun stuff. We have already been to 2 Christmas parties, a Christmas parade (Jordan ROCKED the trumpet), Tristan's birthday, and tomorrow is my last soccer game. Whew! I think I need a nap.

It was a night parade. That's her with the glasses.

Yesterday I worked on gifts for my visiting teaching ladies. I found something similar online and decided to make these myself. I haven't attached the metal bar and magnets yet, but once I do, they will be picture holders. I think they turned out nice, and may make more. I also finished my glass block. I cut out the phrase on my new cricut, and then added the silver spray to the vase to finish off the shelf. I love decorating!

Tristan turned 6

2010-12-02T14:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Tristan's 6th birthday. I can't believe it. After Levi's scouts, we had Outback for dinner (take out), and an ice cream cake. He opened his presents (legos!) and we put them together. We didn't get to do much because yesterday Jaxson threw up all day. It was so sad and frustrating. Nothing like adding to the laundry!

We had a great Thanksgiving last week. Taylor and Jordan cooked most of the food. We ate the best turkey we have ever cooked ourselves. It was quiet with just us at home, but I loved it that way! We took some food over to the Leavitt grandfolks, and then played games all night. I didn't take any pictures because the house was a mess, and my camera was dead anyway.

Friday we decorated for Christmas. It was perfect weather for it (cold and blustery). I finally filtered out all the old decorations I never seem to put up, and some of the ones I put up but wonder why I even bothered every year. I took them to donate, but then felt like I needed to replace some of the decorations. I'll see what I can come up with that won't be too expensive. Here's something I made today that only cost about $5.

cheap dollar store frame


after removing ugly picture

up on the wall

Baptism, birthday, and some Boo!

2010-10-29T15:28:00.000-07:00

October is always one of my favorite months. I love all things Halloween, I love fall, and I love the sports season here (football and soccer). This October has been jam packed full of stuff (what's new right?). Levi was baptized on the 9th. My sister and her family came, and my dad was able to make it too. It was a really sweet baptism. His friends gave the opening and closing prayers, and Jordan and her friend Emma gave the talks. After Mike took him into the water and baptized him, Levi told his dad that it was so "cool" to know that he was clean from sin and that he could now take the sacrament and be clean again every week. It was very sincere and not prompted at all. He's such a loving kid.

cousins!


brothers and sisters

Later in the week, I took the kids and Taylor's friend Stephanie to Apple Annie's for our yearly pumpkin picking. We toured through the corn maze, ate shaved ice and kettle corn, picked our own pumpkins, and then went to the local restaurant that is built in and around a train car. It was so fun.

kids at the Depot

I was lucky enough to take a short leave of the family and head to Phoenix for Time Out For Women. I try to go every year. I think this year had the best speakers to date. My two friends were there with me and we ate so much good food! Best part of all was NO CLEAN UP!!

Saturday was the stake fall fun festival. I got to help head the thing up, and it was so much fun. I didn't actually end up doing much, but I was proud to be a part of the fun. The kids loved it and didn't want to leave.

Monday we celebrated Jaxson's 2nd birthday. Tristan said "I can't believe Jax is only 2. It seems like he's been around forever!" I am really bad at planning birthday parties. I don't mind doing them, but this time of year is just way too busy (and nearly all the kids have birthdays one right after the other!). So, we got his favorite food for dinner (pizza), and an ice cream cake for his birthday. He was shy when we sang happy birthday. Man, I love that little boy!

Today, the kids had a costume parade at school, so last night we finished costumes and hopefully we will find time to carve pumpkins some time today or tomorrow.

Things won't slow down here at all! Tomorrow is Levi's last football game of the season so I hope to get a few pictures. We will trunk or treat, and maybe attend a Halloween party. Monday Taylor turns 16, and we are going to plan a trip to Tucson to celebrate that with her. Ahh, I need a nap just thinking about it all!

It's magic!

2010-10-03T21:08:00.000-07:00


Taylor is on the keyboard. You can call her "Red Ross" if you like, I do.


All suited up

Taylor had a concert that was a "magic show". They had magicians, a ventriloquist, and singing. I took the kids to see it, and they loved it! The show band sounded great although Taylor thought they were horrible. She is very picky and a perfectionist about music. I'm excited to hear them play again.


Tristan on stage to help with a trick.

Levi is now in scouts, and his first scouting experience was going to the county fair. He had fun looking at the animals and the exhibits. We stayed after to let him and Tris go on some rides with their friends. I thought the bubbles in the pool was really cool! They did too.

Tris on a ride.

Halloween is fast approaching us and I love it! I have posted before about how I love fall, and how it makes me feel all nostalgic and happy. The kids like putting on all the masks at the store.


Taylor wants to be this for Halloween, and likes to freak out her baby brother.


Jax likes to dress up with his friends too.

This last weekend was homecoming. It is a crazy time of year for us. We always have a bunch of places to be at once. Jordan marched in the band for the parade. I got to see her march by before I had to throw the boys in the car and hustle to the chapel for our ward activity. Mike then had to leave Levi's football practice early to make it to the homecoming game to see Jordan march in the pregame show. Whew, life just doesn't slow down at all!

Buena band

Jordan's band. She's in front behind the sign.

Taylor went to the homecoming dance with a group of friends last night. I didn't get to see her all dressed up so I insisted she take pictures. My camera stinks, and this is the only picture that turned out nice. She had a great time and was pooped out all day today!

Taylor all dressed up for the dance.

Happenings

2010-09-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

I am not a great blogger. I love to read others blogs, but I rarely seem to get around to updating mine. I'm not good at writing letters or calling friends either (sorry friends!). I get so wrapped up in what is going on with my family that I just let time slip by so fast. I am also really bad at taking photos of events, journaling, and planning birthday stuff for my kids. It's just the way I am. BUT, lest you think I don't do ANY of these things ever, here is a smidgeon of the happenings at the Leavitts!

Levi just turned 8! I didn't have time to plan anything for him, but Mike and I took him out to his favorite place to eat. Hana Tokyo! We had the whole hibachi to ourselves, and Levi had fun. We are planning a party around his baptism October 9th.


Levi at his birthday dinner

Levi started TACKLE football. He is the smallest one on the team (by a long shot!). But he really likes it, and he can take a hit so I'm going with it. Tristan started soccer (I did too since I'm the coach). It is fun to watch those little kids try to figure out the game.

Mike and I finally had a chance to go to the Gila Valley temple together. It was so beautiful. We talked about how we first met at the exact location of the new temple. That makes it special for us to go together. Then we went to eat at Casa Manana. It was a favorite of ours there in Safford. After that we met up with the kicker on the EAC football team. Mike coached him for 4 years and now he is playing at EAC. We went to the game that night and sat with our old friend Lance Layton. We had a great time visiting him. I also got to chat for a few minutes with Brother Palmer who was my old Institute teacher/director. He looks just the same and is just as awesome as always.


Jordan picking a good one.


Mike helped the boys get pears


Kids melting in front of Apple Annie store

A few weekends ago, we took the kids to Apple Annie's in Willcox to pick apples and eat yummy home made apple ice cream, and apple bread. It was hot, dusty, and awesome. I hope we get a chance to go back to get pumpkins and fresh veggies, but with our crazy schedules, who knows. Afterward, we went to my folks house and raided their freezer for beef. They just had a calf slaughtered and I got to fill a cooler full of meat.


This is how Jax travels!

Taylor is getting ready for homecoming which means I'm going to be mending a NEW dress to make it modest enough to wear. She is also getting ready for a lot of band performances which means a lot of piano practicing and lessons. Learning jazz theory has really helped her in her musical abilities. I'm anxious to hear her playing with a jazz band!

Oh yeah, I also have a ton of stuff to do for PTSO. I got voted in as the VP, and I am trying to keep up with it all. I was also called to assist in the Fall festival for our stake which is coming up at the end of October. I am one busy momma right now!

I'll try to do better at posting though since I love to read other's blogs so much.

Yes, it's that time of year again. . . so soon!

2010-08-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

Taylor not too old to take a Buzz Lightyear lunchbox to school.

Levi ready to go get chased by girls.

The kids started school already! Last week the kids all had to get up and get ready for school. I am sure none of us were prepared for it. It felt too early, too soon, and too hot to be sending them off. But, we made it through the first few days just fine. I can't believe that Taylor is a Junior this year. Next year will be so hard for me! Jordan is in 8th grade, and will go to high school next year. Levi started 2nd grade, and Tristan started Kindergarten. Whew, just reading through that has me exhausted. It's nice to have them on a schedule again though. That's what I really love about school.


Jordan wondering why I still take her picture.


Tris a bit nervous, but really excited to finally be going to school.

boys at the bus stop on the 2nd day (the bus forgot to pick them up!)

Jax in his pajamas at the bus stop to send the boys off to school.

Since the kids are gone for school each day, and I'm at home with Jax, I figured I needed a project to keep me busy. But, since it is so hot right now, I am putting off my sewing table paint job. I headed over to the thrift store and found this little jem. It looked gross and dusty, but the basket was in really great shape. I figured that for $3 I could attempt to fix it up a bit. I cut out all the nasty yarn, took off the straps, and re-covered it all. Then I made some fabric rosettes that I have been meaning to try for a while now. It turned out okay. I'm not 100% happy with the handles, but it will do for now. So, now I think I will make some more rosettes for other projects that involve me sitting on my rear end and not moving much since it is even ridiculously hot in my house.


Isn't it gorgeous? It even said Mexico on the top!


Here it is a few hours later.

Flying by!

2010-07-30T10:13:00.000-07:00

Summer is flying by. It has gone too fast for me to keep up with this blog! Last month was a whirl. To start things off, we went on vacation! It was the most interesting trip we've ever had as a family. We let the girls each bring a friend with them so we had our hands full with kids. We flew to San Antonio on father's day for several days. We spent the first few days at Sea World (which is really just a water park with some sea animals!) and we all got sun burned. The next few days were spent at Schlitterbahn. It is an amazing water park. I had fun watching the boys over come some fears and go on pretty big water slides. Levi finally got enough confidence to start swimming for the first time which was awesome. We also spent a day at the riverwalk and the Alamo. It was a good trip, but Mike and I decided we weren't taking a trip of that magnitude again until Jaxson is a bit older. He was a PILL!
Here are some pics of our trip: (my camera died so I didn't get many)

Jax melted in the humidity and heat!


cooling off with a . . . turkey leg?


The back of our hotel at Schlitterbahn reminded me of the cabins on Dirty Dancing.


Jordan and Emma right outside our rooms.


riverwalk tour

cannons at the Alamo

I also took the kids to my brother's and sister's houses for a few days and did some early school shopping. It's a good thing because school starts next week and we are running out of time!

I have been busy getting my house cleaned and organized, and finishing projects around here. We had an appraiser come out and do an appraisal yesterday so we were a bit frantic to get things done before then. Here are some of the things I finished this month:


I put the last door on the armoir that i refinished and repurposed.


I finally finished the frame on the mirror.

made a new towel rack for the bathroom. It still looks rough, I am planning on taking it when we move so I didn't fill the holes all the way on the wall since I need to put a towel rack back on.


and finally, I painted and filled the jewelry box.

17 Years!

2010-06-15T13:30:00.000-07:00

Saturday was Mike and my 17th anniversary. It is hard to believe that ~~I'm old enough~~ we have been married for 17 years already. I woke up early because Mike had to help out with an eagle project, and I had to clean up the house a bit for the bug guy to come spray. While I was doing domestic ~~boring~~ work, I had time to remember the day I was married. We got up early that day too. We needed to be at the temple before it got too hot to take pictures. It was still too hot at 7:30 a.m. in Phoenix AZ!

Mike and I knew we were meant to be together, and there were no nerves or jitters about our decision to be married. It was a really fun day. We were sealed in the Mesa temple, then we took my brother, his fiance Vel, and my best friend Staci to lunch before we headed back to Chino Valley for our reception. I love those memories.
This year for our anniversary, we decided NOT to get gifts for each other. We are going on vacation this weekend, and want to save money for this trip. We went to a movie and dinner instead. We saw A-team. We both really liked it, but, then again, we both watched every episode as kids. Then, we drove into Bisbee for dinner. We went to cafe Roka.

Neither of us had ever been there, but it has been recommended to us many times. Bisbee is such a fun place. The ceilings had such beautiful tin ceilings!
There are so many ~~weird~~ interesting people who live and visit there. The city is built on a mountainside so everything is off kilter. The buildings and homes are all ~~shabby~~ old and quaint.

I love the atmosphere. Cafe Roca is a swanky upscale ~~who knows what~~ Italian place. The food was excellent. We had seats at the top of a balcony and people watched all through dinner. Then after dinner, we held hands and walked up and down the main street in town. We walked through a few of the art and jewelry galleries and enjoyed the 67 degree temps! It was an awesome date. I love Mike! He is fun to be with and my eternal best friend.

This summer has been a whirlwind so far. Taylor got her permit and is now driving ~~me crazy~~ all the time.

Our hummingbird let us take a few pictures of her. It is the first time I have ever seen a hummingbird STILL in my life. She usually flies away when we open the front door. I think the babies will be hatched soon.

The boys were so cute on Sunday, I had to get a few pics of them too.

We are getting ready for a vacation to San Antonio which will be so much fun. I look forward to all of our "activities" this summer and hope to post lots of pics.

the last week of school

2010-05-31T08:39:00.000-07:00

This last week has been so crazy. It started out with a busy weekend. Mike took the girls (and a lot of other youth!) to Thatcher for the temple dedication cultural event on Friday. They had to practice most of the evening. Then on Saturday they practiced some more. I got a sitter for the boys and met them around lunch time. We got to spend some time hanging out with the kids before the event started. Then we got to the EAC football field about 2 hours early so we could get good seats. Everyone was issued colored tickets which indicated where you would get to sit. We had great tickets and probably some of the best seats in the house. We were surrounded by the Lunt family which was fun. At 7:30, President Monson arrived. He was driven up in a golf cart with his daughter. He got out and immediately started telling a story to a little boy. Someone had to run up to him and give him a microphone. He told a story about when he was a boy, he had to take Spanish class. The really good Spanish teacher got married and moved away the year before he was to take it. The new teacher didn't speak Spanish. On the first day of class she welcomed the class by saying "Como esta ustedes?" in her horrible English accent. There was a Mexican boy who sat behind him who immediately said "this is gonna be a long year!". President Monson finished by saying "and it was!". Then he invited President Eyring to sing a song in Spanish with him. It was pretty funny.

He then told the youth how strong they were and how when they stand together, they are even stronger. I wish I had taken notes of all he said, but hopefully it will be in the video we get. Then, the youth performed. There were almost 1700 youth participating. Mike said he felt like he was seeing the stripling warriors as they all marched in formation on to the field.

Each of the seven stakes in the Gila Valley Temple district performed a dance which correlated with a slide show telling of how the Saints settled in the Gila Valley. Since Sierra Vista is so close to the border, our youth did Salsa dancing! Well, Jordan's group actually did soccer drills which kinda confused me. Taylor was front and center in front of the Prophet. She had to do the baton throwing. She was so nervous that she dropped one, and from then on looked like she wanted to murder someone. We asked her afterward why she looked so mad. She said she was concentrating so hard. If she smiled, she would drop her baton again!
The whole performance was amazing. The youth of today are so awesome. After all the dancing was done, the Prophet told the kids what a great job they had done. Then kids started rushing the stage to shake his hand. There were so many kids in tears who were just happy to be in his presence. Then President Monson started talking to the little kids who were there. We couldn't hear what he was saying but he was telling some story I'm sure. He even took a little boy and held him for a while. We could tell the security guards were getting nervous, but the prophet just kept talking and hugging the little ones. Everyone in the stands were just standing and smiling the whole time. It was a very memorable evening.
That night, the girls got rides home, and Mike and I stayed in a hotel. On Sunday we were able to go to the temple for the open house. We got to sit in the veil room. It was a great dedication. I was touched by the stories about the Gila Valley and thought about how that is where all my family is from. President Eyring was a great speaker. Then President Monson got up and spoke about temples. He seemed thoughtful and very real. He almost forgot to say the dedication prayer, but was reminded to do it. It made me think that he is getting old and frail, but when he said the prayer, I felt the power of his priesthood and knew that it didn't matter. He had the Lord with him. It reminded me of when I got my patriarchal blessing by Patriarch Allen. He was so old (he gave my dad his patriarchal blessing!) and seemed to be a bit feeble. I worried about how he would give me a blessing when his wife wheeled him into the room. But then he stood up and placed his hands on my head and he was no longer shaking with age. He was strong and the spirit was clearly aiding him. That is how it was with President Monson while he gave the dedicatory prayer. It was a beautiful experience. I also got to see one of my best friends sing in the choir during the dedication. They sounded amazing.

We didn't get to take many pictures. There were so many people there. We weren't supposed to have cameras at the cultural event, but Mike managed to take a few with his phone.
Then we came back to the real world in a hurry! Monday Jax came down with the flu and was throwing up all night. Then in the middle of the night Tris started throwing up. That lasted for most of the week. It was also the last week of school which meant cleaning out the girls lockers, half days, and just busy work. On Tuesday the PTO had to put on a bbq for graduating 8th graders. I had to have the grill loaded into the truck but since I was home with sick kids someone else had to come get it. Then the next day we had to go set up treats for the graduation and then decorate for the dance. It took most of the day. Oh yeah, and throw in there that I had to take Taylor to get her permit this week too. But, now it is SUMMER!!! I hope to get lots of chances to go to the new temple. I want to try to go on Wednesday since my dad is now a temple worker. It's so cool!

Lastly, this morning, when I was taking out the trash, I looked for the hummingbird nest Taylor told me about. It is in the roses right outside my front door. This is the second time a hummingbird has built a nest there. I will be keeping an eye out for baby birds!

piano!

2010-05-18T16:46:00.000-07:00

My friend Marybeth gave me her awesome old piano. It didn't work anymore and couldn't be saved as a piano. I did a little jump for joy when she told me she was just going to junk it. I have some big plans for this beast! So, being naive and innocent about dismantling a piano, Marybeth and I showed up bearing 2 screwdrivers and a lot of goofiness. The top and outside pieces came off fairly easily. Then we realized we needed to lay the thing on it's back so we could get to the screws underneath. That was when two ~~sweaty~~ women wearing flip flops should have just taken a break and waited for the menfolk to get home.

Being the ever ~~impatient~~ determined women that we are, we figured if we lay blocks down at the back wheels, we could just tip the thing back and lay it down all gentle and nice. Unfortunately for us, it weighs about 700 lbs! We almost dropped the thing. I was pretty certain that if it fell, I would lose all my toes. So, I rested it on my thigh til I could scoot my feet out. I ended up with some gorgeous new skin colors as a result!

Anyway, we dismantled a bit more and then ~~got really tired~~ decided it was time to clean house or make dinner or something. It took me 2 more weeks to get back over there to do some more demolition. Today we were able to take everything off of the piano except for the steel wire frame. That is what weighs a ton. There are only 4 ~~cursed~~ screws left that neither of us can get out. We are going to have to hire some young men to help haul the thing to the truck. It may just end up in the dumpster if we can't get the frame off.

I also refinished this chandelier I got off craigslist.

I took off the glass "bowl" shades, painted it black, put in actual chandelier bulbs, removed the hideous one out of the front room,

and hung this one. I am going to get small shades to cover the bulbs and try to get them to match my thrift store lamp. I am also waiting for the house to burn down since I did the install myself!

chair makeover

2010-05-12T15:06:00.000-07:00

I finished the chair last night! YAY! Okay, so I know it isn't perfect. It was my first upholstery job. I also decided just to use an old sheet to cover it. I don't know yet where I want to put this baby so I wasn't sure what fabric to use. I just knew I wanted to see it finished! I had to repair one of the legs. When I got the seat off I found that it wasn't wobbly cause it needed to be tightened, it wobbled cause it was broken! Some clamps and wood glue followed by filler did the trick though. You can't tell by the horrible pictures I took that I painted it and distressed it to give it a well used look. Anyway, I love it and will probably love it more when I cover it in something I love! I am working on several other things right now too. Hopefully my "patience" (I can hardly wait for paint to dry for 15 minutes!) will improve and my projects will look much better. Have a good one!

Remember the grody before. . . .

And after! Very comfy!

This is what I've done this week.

2010-05-05T14:16:00.000-07:00

I have become addicted to home decor/remodel blogs. I love them and looking at what creative women there are out there! I am so envious! I keep telling myself, "you can totally do that!", and then I find excuses not to do stuff I want. Well, no more! I may not have all the ideas that get people sparked up, but I can copy pretty well! So, this week I made a coffee table tray out of an old picture frame that I picked up at a garage sale for $2!

I painted a coffee table black, and now I am in the middle of refinishing a thrift store chair.

I still need to get the doors done on my armoire, but it has been too windy to use my paint sprayer so it's gonna have to wait some more.
On a side note, I may have spoke too soon on the house being sold already. Foster luck is striking again and making things much more difficult than we had anticipated. Oh well, we have a year to sell the thing so I guess it's okay.
Meanwhile, I need to get over to my friends house to pick up her old piano. I want to make something creative and unusual out of the awesome old thing!

I can't keep up!

2010-05-04T07:30:00.000-07:00

I haven't been as diligent on this blog as I would like to be, but I can't keep up with my crazy life schedule right now! The last two weeks have been a whirlwind. I finally had my garage sale. I had been planning on having one for over a year, but just hadn't gotten around to it. Well, that year all the stuff I had been waiting to sell just continued to build up in my garage to the point that you couldn't walk in it. Then my friend joined me to have an even bigger sale. It was a huge success! All together, we made $1500 on our sale! But, it took me a whole week of cleaning/organizing to just get ready for the sale. I still wasn't ready when at 5:00 a.m. I went outside to start moving stuff to the driveway, and I had buyers there ready to buy! It was insane! But, that was the first thing I had put on my list to get done before we put the house up for sale.

Then last week Mike and I went to Tucson to get my car fixed. We ended up buying a new (to us) car! Mike and Taylor have been looking for used cars for a few months. They did a lot of research and Taylor decided she wanted a Jetta. I told her there was no way she was getting one! Then we found this great deal on a used Jetta at the VW dealership. I didn't want to get her such a nice car, but Mike convinced me that it would be best since it has an awesome warranty, it is less likely to break down on her, and it is the only stick shift car we have been able to find that didn't have a ton of miles on it. She was so surprised when we got home with the car, but I think she is gonna have to convince Mike not to steal it from her!

Then to top all that off, we sold our house! We were not even ready to put it on the market yet, but some friends of our decided they could handle living in a house after the Leavitts (brave folks!). We have decided to close at the end of June so now I have to finish some of my projects and start cleaning/packing like a maniac. I will probably have to have another garage sale too!
I will post pictures later, but I just wanted to make a note of what craziness is happening around here right now.

What I've been up to.

2010-04-05T10:26:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been packed with lots of mundane business. Mike and I spent a bit of time looking at houses for sale, and finally decided we will likely buy our friends house, but they aren't able to move out for another year. So, we are going to put our house up for sale and see what happens!

(This is the house we want to buy)

This weekend was Jordan's 13th birthday, so she had a sleepover with some of her friends. I can't believe she is growing so fast!

Then we had conference and EASTER! I'm not one for doing much traditional Easter stuff. I never really got into egg decorating, baskets and such. It is so commercial and feels like just another thing I have to add to my list of "to do's". The kids got baskets that can be used as shoe or ball baskets, and swim stuff. Then we went to a friends for dinner and games. It was fun. I keep waiting for things to slow down a bit, but I think it will be summer before we get a break!

Jax being cool!

Coloring eggs.

Baskets!

Busy, busy!

2010-03-23T08:54:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted for a while since we have been so busy! So, I will recap the last few weeks.
We don't do much for St. Patrick's Day, but Levi was challenged by his teacher to make a "trap" for a leprechaun. He designed the trap, and I helped him decorate it. Right before he fell asleep, he said, "mom, I forgot about the hole in the box. The leprechaun can crawl out of it!" I assured him I would fix that, so I glued a coin over the hole. He was disappointed that he didn't catch one, but thinks one turned it upside down to let him know he was there!

I had a birthday on the 14th. I am now 37 years old! Mike decided to surprise me for my birthday this year. He wouldn't tell me what he had planned, only that I needed clothes for 3 days and I had to be ready to go on Friday after he got off work. I had an idea of where he was taking me since I've been asking him to for the past 3 years. VEGAS!! I have never stayed there, just drove through on my way to Utah. Well, I got my wish. We went on Friday night and stayed in the Venetian. We had an awesome room. Unfortunately, the door handle on the bathroom came off the first night there. Then, the shower didn't drain and flooded our bathroom. Mike was on it though (he knows to be prepared with my LUCK!" He got us moved to a new room right away. We spent a lot of time walking through shops that were too expensive for my tastes, but I loved looking at everything. I got a new watch. Then, on Saturday we had dinner at the fanciest restaurant (aka, most expensive!) I've ever been to. We went to CUT which is Wolfgang Puck's steak restaurant in the Venetian. It was sooo good! But, I learned that I don't care too much for Kobe beef. It was like eating a huge chunk of fat that wasn't fat. Too weird for my tastes. They did make me a special dessert.

The next day we went to the other side of the strip. We went to Shark Reef and looked at all the fish, we went and saw the Titanic exhibit (loved it!), and then we did a CSI experience and got to solve a murder. SOOO much fun. We forgot about the time change so we had to RUN back to our hotel to change for a fancy dinner. We ate at the Eiffel Tower restaurant. Mike had reserved a table with an amazing view of the water fountain show at the Bellagio. There were roses and rose petals on the table for me. He's so romantic. We ate too much and then went to the top to freeze, I mean see the view of Vegas. Afterwards, we had time for another show and decided to see Blue Man Group. They were great and a fun show.

The next day we slept in and packed up for home. I missed my kids, but was too busy having fun to be mopey about it. Mike is the best. It was so fun to be together and hold hands all day. I love my man. I could've done without all the cigarette smoke in Vegas though!

When we got home, I unpacked, cleaned up, and packed again to head on over to my brother's house for a few days so we could celebrate our birthday together.

This is a picture of some of mine and Allen's kids.

We were there from Tuesday to Saturday. It is gonna take me a few weeks to unpack, clean, and organize myself after a week of being gone.
It was my best birthday ever!

spring project

2010-03-05T19:09:00.000-08:00

As I may have mentioned before, I love spring. I don't love spring cleaning though! Spring makes me want to work on projects that require a bit of thought and have useful results. I've been combing through some of my favorite blog sites and been inspired to start a new project. The project I want to be doing right now is finding/refinishing a dresser for Tristan. Unfortunately, I live in a small town where there is not a lot to choose from. Our used furniture and Salvation Army are full of junk, and over priced junk at that! It doesn't stop me from looking. I frequent craigslist and ebay, but never seem to find anything in town. Today however, I found a perfect little armoire. I went to Salvation Army and walked through the furniture section with little hopes of finding anything. The only cute furniture was already "sold". Then, to my great surprise, the last piece of furniture on the way out was this adorable t.v. armoire.

This is it laying down in the truck.

It is even made out of real wood! Another bonus was that today was 1/2 off day. Everything in the store was 1/2 off! My heart started beating fast as I realized that this could be my new project. I got in line to buy it, and had to wait as two older ladies in front of me argued about who saw a couch for sale first. I almost talked myself out of buying this little gem. I called Mike and he said "get it". So, I did it! I am so excited. I got home and wanted to bring it in and clean it up so I can get started on it tomorrow. Sadly, Mike is still out of town and the thing (real wood remember) is so heavy I can't get it out of the truck. I did manage to take the doors off and take out the drawers.

It's still too heavy. I have plans to gut the inside. paint it, distress it, and put shelves in it to store . . . stuff. I don't have any place in my house for such a cute piece, but that won't stop me now! I'm thinking it's gonna end up red. I've always wanted something RED!

pre-school grad

2010-03-04T11:45:00.000-08:00

Today was Tristan's pre-school graduation. It was at our friends/business partner's house. Tris gets so embarrassed when he has to do anything in front of others that he didn't even want to go, but his friends were going to be there. It was cute watching him and his shy smile get his "diploma" and sing a song.

I told him he couldn't wear one of his old t-shirts, and he didn't have any nice ones at home. I promised him I would get him a new shirt for graduation.

He wants to look like his hero, Shawn Spencer (obnoxious character from t.v. show Psych) so I got him a "Shawn" shirt. He posed for me afterward.

I also took a while to look around the house and take a couple of pictures. Mike is in the works to buy this house and I really hope we can work it out to move in this summer some time. So, anyone who wants to buy my house can give me a call!

fun FHE

2010-03-02T10:09:00.000-08:00

Last night the Bishopric decided to have a group FHE out at the boy scout camp grounds. Our ward is in charge of cleaning up the road/parking lot this year so since the men had to go scope out what needs to be done they decided just to bring all the families and have a campfire dinner together. I have never been out there, and was surprised by how pretty it is.

We started out by getting a fire going and letting Mike and Bishop cook the hot dogs for us. The kids were gone exploring before we could blink! Fortunately they had Braxton along who knows the area very well.

After eating dinner, we immediately let the kids make smores. Then they were off exploring again. It was fun to visit with friends and not worry too much about the kids.
Then Mike helped the kids shoot the boys' new bb gun. They got it for Christmas and this was the first chance we had to let them shoot it!

It was a simple, fun chance to spend some time together and have fun. I loved it 'cause there wasn't much prep/clean up involved. The weather was perfect too.
Sadly, Taylor was home sick. She volunteered to keep Jax at home with her so I didn't have to chase him all around the woods.
Now, Levi and Tristan are going to bug me to take them camping! I've already been asked twice when we are going to go camping since they love it so much.

My latest creation.

2010-02-25T10:14:00.000-08:00

It must be getting into spring, but we aren't there quite yet. I love spring. I love to be outside, do yard work (not that you could tell by the state of my back yard!), take slow walks, go to the park, and all that fun stuff. But when you live in AZ, you get teased with spring a lot. For example, last week, we had several days that were so warm and gorgeous. I thought for sure we were heading into spring a bit early. But this week we are back to colder nights, outside not warming up til it's too late to do anything, and just plain unproductive weather. So, when I start to get bored with all the "inside" stuff, (a.k.a., cleaning, entertaining kids, t.v., etc), I try to find crafty creations that won't take me too long to finish and that are not too difficult (I don't want to get frustrated or ANGRY, it's supposed to be fun!) and that I can encourage my kids to do.

This bag/purse is what I've been working on the past few days. I guess I could have had it done in a few hours if I didn't have to make 3 trips to Walmart (I can never get out of any store without forgetting something, even if it is on my list), reading 50 books to Jax, sitting with Jax, playing with Jax, feeding Jax, changing Jax's diaper, etc. It's a miracle I get anything done with that kid around. Oh yeah, and the 4 other kids keep me somewhat busy as well. Anyway, I found this cute pattern online for super cheap and it had the simplest and best instructions for a sewing pattern I've ever come across. It was also fairly cheap. I don't know if I'll keep it or give it away yet. The girls want to make their own now. I think I will make another one too, but I'll expand the pattern to make it big enough for a church bag. What do you think?

The last time.

2010-02-21T09:03:00.000-08:00

This weekend was our last official temple trip to the Mesa temple. It was bittersweet. I didn't get to go in this time since we had all of our kids with us, but I had a lot of time to sit and think about all the many wonderful times we have had at the Mesa temple. I remember going there as a young girl with my YW class. There was one specific time I remember going to do baptisms. After we were done, we had to wait for all of our leaders to finish. My friends Laurel and JoShel and I walked all around the temple and all through the visitors center. Afterward, we went out on the big lawn and lay down just to look at how beautiful the temple was. I remember us all promising to ourselves and each other that one day we would be married in the temple. It was a great day!

I remember going there on a special day (day before I got married) to get my endowments. My family was there with me. My older sister got to go through on the same day to get her endowments. It was so beautiful. The next day we got up so early and took wedding pictures and later I got to be sealed to Michael for all eternity. It was magical!

Not long after that, my brother and his wife were sealed there. There were many other sealings and special occasions that we were able to attend in that temple. I remember once when I was pregnant with Taylor we were called to be temple missionaries. That meant we were asked to go there and do 2 sessions or 2 initiatories a month. It was very difficult on us since we were both in school and both working AND pregnant with our first baby. We were doing sealings once and the worker performing them turned out to be my mom's cousin. I almost passed out. I guess it is pretty common when you are pregnant! So, he let me sit on a chair and do all the sealings we had on our list. I loved that day!

Taylor and Jordan were both able to do their first baptisms at the mesa temple as well. I'm so glad they were able to do them where I once did as a young girl!

Of course, we always love family temple trips to Mesa because we usually end up staying in a hotel and eating out at restaurants we just don't have. The kids love going to a real mall! We make the trips really fun. This time around it was rainy so I didn't get to take any pictures. I was also pretty cranky since I didn't get much sleep and the boys were fighting. But being with my family at the temple is always a good thing so I managed to get over it.

Now we are going to be going to the Gila Valley temple. I have lots of family and memories already made in that area. Mike and I lived in Central for the first 6 months of our marriage and both my parents and their families are from Safford. It will be nice to go to the temple there and be able to visit with my Grandma more often. We know the temple president (President Crockett) from our days at EAC. We are going to make lots of new memories in a new temple. I'm both excited and a bit sad about it all. Our girls get to participate in the cultural event that is coming up with the open house and dedication. It will be a great start!

It'll take your eye out!

2010-02-18T19:34:00.000-08:00

Levi has gone and done it! I no longer worry about a bb gun taking Tristan's eye out. I only have to worry about him doing it with any toy he can get his hands on. Today Levi was "knife" fighting with Tris. Tristan's 'knife' was a CapriSun straw. Levi had a hard plastic ninja knife. He accidentally stabbed Tris in the eye. When Tris came to tell on him he was crying. I said my usual "stop crying, you are fine". Then I saw that his tears were bloody and got a bit worried. Well, the inside of his eyelid and a bit of his eye was cut. Luckily it isn't going to affect his vision, but it sure looks ugly. We are also lucky to have a good friend who is an optomotrist who will see Tris first thing in the morning. Poor kid. I had to buy $100 eye drops for him that cause him to cry blood some more. Ugh! It's always something.

Valentine's Fun!

2010-02-13T09:18:00.000-08:00

Mike and I decided to celebrate Valentine's day last night. He has a busy weekend working today and then chaperoning the stake dance tonight. He talked some friends into going to Tucson with us to eat out at Flemings Steakhouse. It is the best steak I've ever eaten. We had so much fun visiting and getting a break from the world not to mention eating the best food.
Before we left for dinner Mike gave me my Valentine gift. We don't usually give each other big or expensive gifts so I was a bit surprised to get anything. I love my new bracelet!

I love my Mike even more. He is the best.

Taylor is funny

2010-02-13T09:12:00.000-08:00

Today Taylor had to take her final for her online class at the high school. When I came to pick her up she says "Mom, today was not a good day for me to wear plaid!" We didn't remember that today was the Cowboy Poets Gathering at the school. She said that several people asked her if she was going to read her poem or what her poem was about. I got such a laugh out of it that I had to take her picture and post it. She is SO anti cowboy. It didn't help that she was carrying a leather bag with thick leather stitching. Funny girl.

What color will they be?

2010-02-01T11:27:00.000-08:00

Jax is 15 months old now and I still don't know what color his eyes are going to be. When he is in my bathroom, his eyes look really green. Of course, my bathroom is decorated in green. When he is in my family room they look like they could be blue or brown depending on how dark it is. This morning I took a picture of him with the natural lighting from outside shining on his eyes. I just don't know what color they are going to end up being! I'm hoping green like his Nana. What do you think?

My new favorite!

2010-01-29T13:20:00.000-08:00

I really enjoy a good meal. I mean, I've always loved food. As a child, I was always hungry (I wish I still had that metabolism!). I used to think about food a lot. My mom still teases me b/c when I was in high school, I would call her from school to ask her what she was making for dinner. As I got older, my tastes for food matured. Now, one of my favorite things to do is to go out with Mike to dinner at a restaurant (not fast food thank you very much!) that serves food you just can't replicate at home. We have eaten out a lot, and although I am not a very adventurous eater, I am a bit of a food snob. I still like eating foods like my mom used to make, but I always wonder what it would be like if I added this, or that, or if I cooked it this way or that. Now, after reading all this, you may think I am a great cook, but you would be wrong! A good cook is someone who thinks those things and then acts on them. I tend to follow the recipe, and "wonder" about it later. That is why I love food blogs. There are some really great ones out there. My sister, who knows me very well and is one of my BFF's found a great one and had me making recipes from it about a year ago. Well last week while Mike and I were browsing the local book store, I came across a recipe book by this woman who is an amazing cook and who gladly shares all her recipes online for free! I was so happy, and even though I have all of her recipes that I love printed out and put in my own collection of favorite recipes, I had to have it. It is my new favorite book! I encourage all of you check out her blog and start cooking! http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/
The best recipes I've tried so far are the mashed potatoes, the beef brisket, enchiladas, and chicken spaghetti.
You are welcome! Oh yeah, please send me some links to your favorite food blogs! I would love to try any new recipes I think my family will like!

I really am his mom!

2010-01-26T18:42:00.000-08:00

So, some of you read all about my "situation" last week. I thought I would document the funny on here. As a pre-side note, my brother in law says it figures that this would happen to me, one of the most unlucky women in the world!
Here is what happened. Last week, while thrift shopping for a dresser for Tris, I went to the Salvation Army to browse. I was only there for about 3 minutes as it is not very clean and I only wanted to look through the furniture. I had Jax on one hip, and my purse in my other arm. We walked in, walked in a circle around the furniture, and walked right out. On the way out to the car, I passed a lady in her car who gave me a strange look. She was on the phone with someone. Jax started screaming just then b/c he didn't want to be put back in his car seat since he just got out. I said "oh, baby! Stop crying!". Then I got in and started to back out. The parking lot is really small, and not laid out very well. An older man in his truck was waiting for me to back out so he could have my spot (I think!). But, when I pulled out, he wouldn't move so I could leave the parking lot. In my impatience, I gestured to him to move over so I could get out. Just then, the lady in the parked car got out and ran over to the man in the truck and started rambling to him. I slowly inched my way around the guy thinking he was a crazy old man. I had to run a few more errands, but was home within 40 minutes of the "episode".

When I came home Jordan says "mom, a police man came over and wants you to call him as soon as you get home. Mike says "What did you do now?", ha ha! So, I call the police man and all the while Mike is gesturing "What?" to me. The officer then tells me that an "anonymous older couple" called in to report a missing child and that they thought Jax was that child. He wanted to come over and look at him and his birth certificate. I assured him he could, but that I may have to search through my disaster of a closet to find it. I told him he could come look at all his baby pictures, and compare him to his siblings since they all look alike too. He said he believed me and didn't need to come over.
I was glad I didn't actually have to prove he was my child, and also appreciated that the police were so fast to respond to a tip about a missing child. On the other hand, I wondered what made me look like I was such a hooligan! I mean, lots of babies Jax's age look similar. Was it that he doesn't look much like me? Do I look like trouble? Were the tipsters just frustrated with me for being impatient? I'll never know, but I do know that he is my child through and through. If there ever was a mommy's boy, he is it!

A new year

2010-01-12T18:49:00.000-08:00

It's a new year which leads me to ponder on how it is a time to make changes to improve one's self. I don't like making "resolutions". I tend to be a bit of a flake when it comes to sticking to them. Not because I can't make changes or that I don't want to do or be better, but because I am so forgetful. I get caught up in life. I spend way too much time taking care of my family and I get lost in what I am doing. I'm not an adult with ADD either, I think I'm more pre-alzheimer. Anyway, this year I've decided not to make any "resolutions", but rather to look back on the year and find ways to be more positive about my life experiences.

This year, we were able to see one of our good friends beat cancer! We were all worried about him, and he has horrible scars to remind him of his scare, but he is cancer free. He also got married and is expecting his 6th baby soon. That was a great thing.

Jaxson kept us all busy learning how to roll, sit up, crawl, walk, drink from a cup, and so many other things.

Jordan had a birthday and turned 12. She is almost 13 now! That meant she was able to go to the temple and do baptisms for the first time. She is officially a babysitter which is a huge help to our family! She was also inducted into the National Junior Honor Society. Oh yeah, and she got braces!

Levi lost and grew in two front teeth. He also came in second in the ward pinewood derby! He started piano lessons, and he is growing way too fast.

Tristan has become best friends with his little baby brother. He really enjoys making him happy and taking care of him. He got to start pre-school and we are finding that he is a smart kid if he applies himself and takes a break from the video games!

Taylor was able to have her surgery on her knee so she can finally be active without worrying about falling down in pain all the time. She has recovered better than anticipated, so all those medical bills were worth paying! She got to take an awesome vacation to Hawaii as well. We are grateful she has a job to pay for things like that.

Mike and I have been able to spend a lot of time with our kids this year and we have learned to love them even more (is that even possible?). We were able to spend more time with my family this year too.

All in all, it has been a great year. We have had ups and downs, fun times and downright boring times! Looking back on it all, I see where we have improved. We are spending more time together doing things that matter. We are trying harder to be better. We will continue on in our journey to be a forever family. My goal this year is to not wait til the year is out to find the positive in my life, but to find it in the here and now. My goal is to bring more joy into my own life, and share that joy with my family.

Christmas stuff!

2009-12-26T18:20:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2009 was another success! We had so much to do before Christmas. The boys got to go to a primary activity called "cereal with Santa" (although they had muffins instead of cereal! Don't ask me why.) and got their pictures taken with Santa.

Taylor and Jordan wanted to help out with the Christmas eve stuff so they did some major shopping with Mike on Christmas eve. We let the kids open up their night before presents (or as Tristan would say "presidents"). The boys got pj's and the girls got snuggies. Tristan got the flu and spent most of the day throwing up. Poor kid just can't win!

Christmas morning came way too soon but not as early as I anticipated. Around 7:30, we let the kids in to see what Santa had brought them. They were surprised!

We spent most of the day in our pajamas playing with presents. We cleaned the house a bit, had a wonderful ham dinner. We open Christmas Crackers every year and everyone wears their paper crowns throughout dinner. At dinner the I asked the kids what their favorite thing was for Christmas. Levi said that having dinner together and being a family was his favorite. He is so smart!!

After putting the boys to bed, Taylor, Mike and I went to the movies with Nana and Papa Leavitt and Uncle Ethan. We saw Sherlock Holmes. I really loved it.

Today my parents came for dinner. It's always fun to visit with them and talk about family history.

All in all, we had a great time this week. I hope all my friends and family had fun and memorable Christmases.

Me and Mike

2009-12-18T11:32:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking a lot about my marriage to Michael the last few weeks. Many of our friends and family members have been going through difficulties in their marriages. One of my friends even lost his wife a few weeks ago to cancer. It has made me reflect on how lucky I am. We stayed up late the other night talking about how easy it is to let a marriage go and not work on being best friends forever. We work hard at getting along and even though we have disagreements and arguments at times, we always make an effort to show love and accept each other for who we are. Mike told me he was glad he didn't marry someone "crazy"! I guess that's a good thing (I've been successful in keeping him in the dark!). I thought how fortunate I have been to be married to a man who sticks to his principles, who loves the gospel, who always wants to do what is right, and who loves me still, inspite of all my obvious flaws. Tonight I get to go to a wedding reception for a girl in my ward who used to be one of my YW. She is marrying a sweet boy from my home town of Chino Valley. I will spend a bit more time thinking about my own marriage 16 and 1/2 years ago. I love the man I married even more than I did then. He is and always will be my very best friend.

Tis the season to be . . . BUSY!!

2009-12-14T10:43:00.000-08:00

I love the holidays so much! But, I can sure do without the business that naturally accompanies the festivities. It feels like we have been running since before Thanksgiving. Here is a bit of what my family has been up to. . .
We all returned home from Utah/Hawaii, and were back to school, work, and laundry galore! Then the girls had YW in excellence. It was great from what I hear (Mike had to go while I bathed and put the boys to bed). Then later on in the week, the girls both had the Christmas parade to march in (they were great!) I don't have pics of them since it was a night parade of lights. It was freezing cold. My boys would have insisted we go home if they weren't expecting to have candy thrown at them!

Then, we had a few days to get the house cleaned up for company. One of Mike's mission companions from Australia was coming with his two daughters for a visit. It took a lot of work, but we were ready for company just in time. Since Chris and his daughters have been here, we have played a lot of Wii, watched too much Disney (they don't have it there), and a few other fun things. One day, we drove them out to Willcox to my folks house to see and ride the horses. Dad thought it would be fine just to put the kids up bareback on Sierra, and she did great.

Even Jaxson got a ride. He thought it was so cool.
That same night we had Mike's office Christmas party at La Casita. It was fun and the food was yummy.

Next day Mike took Chris out shooting. No one is allowed guns in Australia so he thought it was really awesome. Then we topped it off by going to Tombstone, the town too tough to die. We didn't have time to do all the shows and see all the museums, but that's a good thing since we probably didn't have the money to do it all either!

Answer to prayers

2009-12-04T08:12:00.000-08:00

Lately, I have been blessed to have my prayers answered. I've been thinking a lot about the power of prayer. A few months ago, I had the chance to go to my grandma's birthday celebration. We also celebrated my great uncle's birthday at the same time. Uncle Bill told us the story of when he was a young man in the navy stationed on a ship during the war. The ship was attacked and began to sink. He was lucky enough to get onto a life raft. After a long time, the raft began drifting too far out, and the seas became very dangerous. One of the men on the ship said "I think it's time we all start to pray". Uncle Bill said that as soon as they all started to pray together, the seas calmed and they were soon rescued. He bore his testimony that Heavenly Father loves us and will answer our prayers. Not long after hearing his story, I was feeling depressed and upset. It seems that whenever Mike and I save enough money to get a project around the house fixed, something comes up and our project gets put on the back burner. Well, we've been talking about putting new flooring in for years, and finally had the money to do it. A few days before I actually ordered the flooring, we found out that we needed the money for something else. I was feeling fed up and frustrated. I prayed that I could get over it and not fight with Mike about it. Later that day I was reading in my scriptures and came across this passage: 3 Ne. 13: 25, 31, 34
  25 And now it came to pass that when Jesus had spoken these words he looked upon the twelve whom he had chosen, and said unto them: Remember the words which I have spoken. For behold, ye are they whom I have chosen to minister unto this people. Therefore I say unto you, take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
  31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
  34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow, for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient is the day unto the evil thereof.
I felt that this was an answer to my prayer, that I need to take no thought of material things, and take more thought of spiritual things and the things that really matter the most.
I had two more experiences this week. After a long trip home from Utah, I was feeling exhausted. I don't even remember half the drive home from Phoenix! We got home, and I took an instant nap. After I got up, I went to get us some dinner, but couldn't find my wallet. I searched every where. I got angry, and searched every where again. Then I made all the kids help me look for my wallet. It was no where to be found. I asked Levi to say a prayer that we could find my wallet (I was too upset to do it). He was so sweet, and I was instantly relieved and the stress started to fade away. Hours later, after I put Levi and Tristan to bed and sat down to relax, Jordan says, "mom, Jaxson found your wallet." I don't know where he got it from, but there he was, sitting in the floor playing with my wallet! Levi came out for a drink of water and I told him that his prayer worked. He was pretty pleased with himself.

Two days later, I took the boys to Tucson. We were in Costco shopping, and just as we got in the checkout to pay, I reached in my pocket for my Costco/Amex card. It wasn't there. I searched all through my purse and pockets, and knew it had fallen out somewhere in the massive store. I asked Levi to say another prayer real quick while I searched again. In the middle of the crowded store, Levi bows his head and folds his arms, and prays that we will find my card. We re-traced our steps, to no avail. Then we went to customer service where someone had turned it in. Levi said he knew his prayer would be answered, and so did I. I'm grateful that the Lord has given me a chance to teach my sons that prayer works, and that my testimony about it could be strengthened.

Christmas time is here!

2009-12-03T20:16:00.000-08:00

This has been a hectic holiday season so far. I am about done decorating for Christmas, but what normally takes me 1 day has taken me 4 so far and I'm not completely finished. It's not that I have a lot more decorations, it's that I'm also trying to get the house ready for some visitors next week. Mike's old mission companion from Australia is coming next week with his two daughters. So, we are trying to get everything decorated and cleaned up before next Wednesday!
Tris loves putting ornaments on the tree.

Jax really loves un-decorating.

Levi just loves doing things together as a family.

Jax will keep me on my toes through out the Christmas season. He tried to unwrap the presents under the tree today.

Vacation!

2009-12-03T19:50:00.000-08:00

So, this was an interesting Thanksgiving. Taylor's high school band planned a trip to Hawaii for six days, and we thought it would be great if Mike went along as a chaperone. Since I didn't want to leave all the other kids with someone else during the holidays, I decided to stay with them and head out to Utah to visit my sisters and brother. We knew it was going to be an interesting trip when Tristan threw up the whole way to Utah.
This was the kids after we landed in Salt Lake Utah was cold and covered in snow. I loved it! So did Tristan. He just wanted to play in it all day.

After a delicious turkey dinner, we played a game of family soccer. My brother and nephew schooled us all. It was fun. My dad challenged all the little kids to a race. Levi was certain he would win. Papa was the winner though, with Lauren coming in second and Levi third. Levi consoled himself by saying that Lauren is older, and he just decided not to finish fast because he didn't really want to win anyway. We were all worried that Papa would keel over, but after a short rest, he joined in on the soccer game.

The next day, we went Black Friday Shopping! I've never done it before, and I had so much fun laughing at all the crazy women shoppers. I did find some good deals too, but I don't know if it was worth getting up at 4:00 in the morning and waiting to get into Target in the 20 degree weather. But, spending time with my sisters and niece made up for the sheer exhaustion. I love them so much!

The next day we took all the kids to the discovery museum for kids. They had a ball.

Jaxson loved all the attention he was getting from his cousins, and to be honest, SO DID I!!

After that we went to the temple square to let everyone see the temple lights and take a tour of the conference center.

Me and my siblings finally found time to get a picture together. They are fun to be around.

Although I missed Mike and Taylor so much, I loved visiting my family. And I know that Hawaii was a fun trip for them too. I will post pics when I get them loaded. I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving holiday as well!

Terrific Table!

2009-11-21T08:23:00.000-08:00

Last month we bought a bit of new furniture. One thing we really wanted was a new table. One where we could all sit down together and have a nice meal together. We are usually very casual about dinner. Even though we all eat at the same time, we rarely sat at the table together. We found a great table that seats 8 and is comfortable for us all. I decided that it was high time we made a tradition of having a formal dinner once in a while. Namely for the holidays. Our old blue dish set didn't match so great with the new table so I went on a search for affordable dishes that would be good for formal or casual dining. I found a great deal! Can you guess where I got it and estimate how much? Yes, it includes the silverware, napkins, table runner, glasses, mugs, plates, bowls, and salad plates . . . for 8!

Here is my new table all decorated for our Thanksgiving feast which we will have tomorrow since we are going to be out of town for the actual Thanksgiving day.

They are growing so fast!

2009-11-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

My kids are growing up so fast. Taylor is 15! Jordan is 12 and taking on a lot more responsibility. Levi is 7, and only has 1 year until he is baptized. Tris is about to turn 5 and starts all day Kindergarten next year. I can't believe my baby Jax just turned 1! Where does all the time go? Having said that, it is so fun to have your kids get older and to get to know them and their personalities. I got to take Taylor and Jordan to the movie last night. We saw New Moon. It was fun and the girls made me laugh with all their drooling over "Jacob". It's fun to plan with them for their future. It's fulfilling to see them experience things I never got to do as a child (or even as an adult!). Next week Taylor and Mike are going to Hawaii together for her band trip. How lucky is she? Jordan and the boys get to fly with me to Utah for the week. How lucky are we? Jaxson is walking now. He can take about 10 steps before he gets distracted and falls down. It's all happening too fast! I love it all.
All the kids at dinner in Tucson

Waiting in line at the movie

She's 15!

Veteran's Parade

2009-11-12T06:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had lots of fun watching Taylor and Jordan march in the Veteran's Day Parade. Taylor plays Sax and Jordan the trumpet. The boys and I got a great spot on the road where we had access to a quick getaway, and we settled down to watch.

Taylor's band is blue and white. I couldn't get a good shot b/c I didn't know where she would be. They keep moving her around!

Jordan was right where I thought she would be! She is so cute in her uniform.

Levi and football.

2009-11-09T07:59:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun watching Levi play football this season. He finally got into it and decided that football is where it's at! He learned a lot and really improved. Next year he is on to tackle! He is gonna get creamed! I took him to the dr. for his annual check up and found that he has grown 2 inches and not gained a single ounce in a year! It's a good thing he's fast, maybe the big kids won't see him well enough to knock his lights out. Anyway, here are some pictures of him playing ball and some pics of his end of the year party where he got "the coolest trophy ever"!

Here he is making a run for it!

Happy daddy/coach when Levi hustles.

Levi and his big green mouthpiece.

Levi with coach Jeff

Waiting for his trophy

Trophy time

Halloween fun!

2009-11-02T13:07:00.000-08:00

We had a great Halloween this year. We started out early, and headed to Willcox for Levi's final football game. His Nana, Papa, and Aunt Shirley came to watch the game. Levi had a 70 yard touchdown run! I hope to get a video sent to me of it. Then we went to Apple Annies to get some pie, ice cream, and look at the country store. Later that night we went to the ward trunk-or-treat and got way too much candy. Then it was back to our house for a Halloween gathering of friends. We played "Who Am I?" and True Colors. Then we ate the yummy pie! We got to bed late, and had so much fun. It was a perfect Halloween!

Jaxson is 1 year old!

2009-10-27T13:13:00.001-07:00

My baby has turned 1! Time goes by so fast. He is getting so big and wanting to do everything for himself. We didn't have a party, just dinner and cake with the family, but he did get a tickle me Elmo and a new rocking horse for his birthday. He loves toys that move and make noise.

Can you tell I really love Halloween?

2009-10-19T15:40:00.000-07:00

I don't know really what it is that makes me love Halloween time. I am like a kid. I can't wait for October to roll around so I can decorate, and start planning parties/costumes. Maybe it is just all the fall colors, the changes in the way shadows fall and how the sun shines during the fall, maybe it is the full moons, scary movies on t.v., or maybe it is just that it is the beginning of holiday seasons. It could be that I love it so much since October is when Mike and I started dating, or that November is when my oldest daughter was born. It's likely that it is all of these things. One thing I know for sure, the fall season makes me happy, nostalgic, and ready to make good changes in my life. YAY FOR HALLOWEEN TIME!!

Pumpkin Patch!

2009-10-11T17:08:00.000-07:00

I had planned on spending a great weekend with my brother, but unfortunately, my kids are sick and so is my sweet sister in law. So, instead of going to Chino Valley with my kids and mom in tow, I took her home to Wilcox and decided to take the boys to Apple Annie's Pumpkin Patch while we were there. I love all the fall colors and PUMPKINS!! Levi started having asthma problems so we didn't pick them from the vine, but I did manage to get a few pictures.

I can't believe I got sucked into it!

2009-10-06T19:59:00.000-07:00

I am about to have a panic attack! Some of you know that I have been suckered into coaching the cheerleaders for Levi's football team. Now, once you quit laughing and wipe your eyes, you might wonder how in the world that happened. Well, my friend "signed" me up. If I refused to help, there would be no cheer for our team and her daughter wouldn't be able to cheer this year. I love the kid so I decided it couldn't be that bad. That was until the first practice that is! I am not flexible, can't do a cartwheel to save my life, and don't know the first thing about cheerleading. I actually hoped the girls could help me figure out what to do, but they are only 5-7 years old. Thankfully, there is youtube out there to teach me what to do. It has been a month now, and I have learned and taught the girls about 10 cheers. It wasn't as bad as I anticipated, once I gave up the concerns about making a fool of myself. Now, the panic part comes from having to come up with a competition routine to do at the end of the month. I have no idea where to go from here, and only hope that October will end quickly! I vow never to coach cheerleading again! Besides the obvious, I am constantly trying to see around the girls at the actual football games. Go figure!

I have no idea what I am doing.

2009-10-06T19:15:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog! After reading blogs of friends of mine, I have decided to join the world of blogging. I really don't know what I am doing, but hope to get the hang of it soon. I also have nothing witty to say at the moment, but bear with me, I am sure those moments will occasionally make an appearance here (if I can remember to post them that is!).