tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44880613569154413952024-03-05T17:25:26.480-07:00beauty, love, and observations in generalAnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.comBlogger216125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-40505579430703522402013-11-13T13:09:00.000-07:002013-11-13T13:12:46.168-07:00My Favorite Vase<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have a favorite vase. It's not an heirloom, not expensive, or particularly artistic. It's tiny - only about 3 inches tall. But the reason I love it so much is because it's just perfect for cradling small flowers, for holding blooms plucked from stems by small hands and brought to me as gifts. This vase has displayed many of these treasures.<br />
Though some of my boys have outgrown this tendency, I still occasionally receive these thoughtful presents, and it always warms my heart. This latest was collected by Brandt and given to me after a walk in the neighborhood.Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-1967404142028993822013-08-21T14:15:00.000-07:002013-08-21T14:17:51.368-07:00First Day of School 2013The night before school starts is always a little emotional for me. I think ahead of all the challenges and opportunities my kids will face, their triumphs and temptations, and I mourn the passing of lazy, summer days.<br />
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We prepared backpacks, stuffed them with the necessary supplies. Then we talked together about how great school is, how much they can learn (most of which is accompanied by groans from Caleb and Dallin) and Mitch gave each of them a Father's blessing. In case you're wondering why none of the boys have shirts on, it's hot here in August, and our kids think this means that summer pajamas consist of a pair of comfy shorts.</div>
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On the morning of the first day of school I asked for a photo. </div>
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I know that many kids are excited for school to start. Can you tell that is not the case in my house? With the exception of Brandt, this photo accurately captures my boys' attitude about the matter.</div>
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But Brandt was excited. It was his first day of preschool and, with his new backpack, he was ready to conquer the world.</div>
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The other boys weren't quite so sure, but they did finally smile for my pictures. </div>
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Here's Adam on his first day of 1st grade.</div>
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Dallin's first day of 3rd grade.</div>
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Caleb's first day of 6th grade (his last in elementary school)!<br />
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We walked to school together.<br />
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After finding some decorative trash along the way, Mitch offered to come into Caleb's classroom and meet all his new friends.<br />
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Caleb declined.<br />
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Once we dropped off the older boys we walked Brandt to preschool, not far away.<br />
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He was excited to see his new teacher.<br />
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And despite previous frowns, everyone had a good first day of school and I'd say things are off to a good start.</div>
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-88533700128133775342013-08-12T14:57:00.001-07:002013-08-12T14:57:54.707-07:00Kid Quotes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You know I love to catch my kids' quotes. Here are some recent favorites from over the summer.<br />
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<b>A Brave Plan</b><br />
After hearing horror stories from a scoutmaster about the obstacle course "of death," Dallin turned to his friend Broc and said,<br />
"Okay, let's just try to run the best that we can and try not to get hurt, or die or anything."<br />
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<b>Epic</b><br />
Brandt turned to me while playing Angry Birds and said,<br />
"Mom! I just did something so epic."<br />
"You did?" I replied.<br />
"Yeah. You should have seen it. It was really epic."<br />
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<b>Like a Boss</b><br />
Caleb:<br />
"One time I was catching grapes [with my mouth] and it was so boss..."<br />
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<b>Lofty</b><br />
After searching it out on the globe together Dallin looked at me and, as if revealing a great secret, said,<br />
"Mom, did you know when I'm grown up I am going to climb to the top of Mount Everest?"<br />
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<b>Like I Didn't Know</b><br />
Brandt, in exasperation:<br />
"Mom, didn't you know I know <i>everything</i>?<br />
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<b>A Disturbing Pattern</b><br />
Adam asked,<br />
"Why does everyone try to trick Mom?"<br />
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<b>Drawbacks</b><br />
Caleb told Dallin,<br />
"I'm so glad I'm not a cowboy when all they ate was bacon and beans."<br />
<b><br />Trump</b><br />
During a minor argument with Adam, Brandt stated smugly,<br />
"I'm cuter than all of you guys."<br />
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<b>Mom's Cookies</b><br />
Dallin told me,<br />
"Mom, just so you know, it's impossible to get tired of your cookies."Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-82071942392525136822013-03-21T15:45:00.000-07:002013-03-21T17:45:27.055-07:00Brandt's Quotes<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">I wanted to share a few of my favorite quotes from Brandt this week.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Mom, do you know what?"</span> Brandt asked from his car seat.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">"What?" I asked<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: large;">"I'm glad we're in this beautiful Earth" </span>he said.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">"Yeah" I replied, smiling. "Me too."</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">From his position riding piggy-back up the stairs, Brandt said,</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">"Mom, your head is so beautiful and hairy."</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">This made me stop on the stairs and belly laugh! Then Brandt started laughing, and when I finally made it upstairs we tumbled onto his bed giggling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">* * * </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">While coloring quietly at the table with me, </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">"Mom, it's so cuddly at home."</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">This one made me feel like a good mom, which was nice because even though I <i>know</i> I'm a good mom, sometimes I don't <i>feel </i>like enough.</span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">Brandt is at such a fun age. I love the original way he expresses himself, which sometimes makes me shake my hairy head in delight at a peek at the world from his perspective. </span>Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-77738514310088850742013-02-04T10:34:00.000-07:002013-02-05T19:31:39.208-07:00Cardboard Boxes and the Magic of Being 3A couple of weeks ago after a trip to Costco I unloaded my groceries from this box. I paused, ready to toss it in the recycle bin, then noticed how great a box it was. Thick, sturdy, and it looked just like a car. I thought Brandt might agree. <br />
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He did. This box did indeed become a car. Then a boat. Then, with a comfy pillow and his sippy cup inside, the perfect place from which to watch cartoons. I didn't have to paint it, fashion faux-wheels, steering wheel or anchor. That all happened in Brandt's head. Because childhood is magical.<br />
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Or maybe it's that the world seems magical to a child. <br />
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That same day at Costco Brandt saw the front of this box.<br />
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<a href="http://images.costco.com/image/media/500-689395-847__1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images.costco.com/image/media/500-689395-847__1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Pointing to the image he said,<span style="font-size: large;"> "That makes you disappear?" </span><br />
If I had said yes, he would have believed it.<br />
<br />
On the topic of disappearance, Dallin asked Brandt last night why he said "excuse me" when he burped. <br />
Brandt replied that, <span style="font-size: large;">"'Excuse me' makes your burp go away."</span><br />
<br />
See? Magic again. <br />
If you can see past my references to digestive health and bodily functions, I'm sure you will agree. <br />
<br />
And if I would allow my older boys to ride down the stairs in the Costco box, they might agree too.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-1869931247472594882013-01-30T16:01:00.001-07:002013-01-31T11:59:49.747-07:00Moments of BeautyHustling, my mind full of disquiet from accounting for backpacks, shoes, jackets, instruments and three clean-faced boys (Brandt's face doesn't have to be clean at this stage of my day), I backed out of my garage because, once again, we were too late to walk and I would have to drive the kids down the block and around the corner to the school. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At the end of the driveway I froze with my foot on the brake pedal.</div>
<div>
"Woah, look!" someone said.</div>
<div>
Two enormous hot air balloons were drifting slowly over our neighborhood. I mean, they were probably normal size, but they looked enormous because they were so low. Their colors were bright and the morning sun shone behind them. I became aware of the music that was playing on the radio (Capriccio: Moonlight Music by Richard Strauss). I started driving down the street toward the balloons, then stopped at the intersection so we could watch their peaceful movement. We watched the flame ignite under one balloon, then the other, heating the air to prevent their baskets from scraping the tiles on a nearby roof, so it seemed. Gradually, they grew farther away, and I remembered that the kids would soon be late for school. I started driving, the song ended, and the moment was past.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
***</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was bedtime. All the boys were upstairs brushing teeth, shoving at each other, laughing, taunting. Except for Brandt, who was sitting quietly on the dark stairs next to the built-in night light. I sat down next to him and kissed his round cheek. He smiled, then looked at the tiny moth that was walking on the glass of the light. The moth stopped. </div>
<div>
"Look." He said. "It's a bug."</div>
<div>
"A moth." I said. I watched Brandt as he watched it, his face golden in the light, then I pursed my lips and blew gently at the moth. My breath ruffled its wings, and it walked along the glass to the edge of the frame until it was partially hidden under it. </div>
<div>
Brandt frowned. "I wanted to touch it," he said.</div>
<div>
Its back half was still visible. "Touch it." I said. </div>
<div>
Brandt raised his finger and softly touched its wings. He drew his hand back and smiled and the moth squeezed between the glass and the frame to slip inside to the light. I grabbed Brandt, hugged and kissed him, and took him up the stairs.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
***</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was driving along the back of the grocery store parking lot with my trunk full of fruit and vegetables (and maybe a handful of bulk-bin chocolate-covered raisins) when suddenly a gust of wind picked up the leaves that were strewn along the ground and lifted them into the air, tossing them across my path. The sun shone on their lighter under-sides and I felt like I was driving through golden-brown glitter. Just then a man in a sports car rounded the bend and drove past me. I looked at his face as he passed. I was sure he hadn't noticed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
***</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm trying to pause when they happen, these moments of beauty in my life. They're often very simple, or happen at inconvenient times. But they are there. I hope you see them in your life too. Life is beautiful.</div>
Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-27618312077810386642013-01-30T14:58:00.001-07:002013-01-30T19:15:59.770-07:00Predictable EndingsI was putting things away in the kitchen when Dallin, who is eight years old, paused at the counter. <br />
<br />
"Mom, how come you always know how books and movies are going to end?" he asked.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean, Dallin?" I asked.<br />
<br />
"Like you always know that the good guy will win." He talked about the protagonist in the book I'm reading aloud to him at bedtime, and how he had known all along he would overcome his obstacles. "It's always like that," he said.<br />
<br />
"Are you saying that because you know that in real life, things don't always work out like we think?" I asked.<br />
<br />
"Yeah," he said. "I wish there were more books and movies like that."<br />
<br />
We talked about how most people like to have happy endings, but that there are some books and movies without happy endings (which he plans to read/watch).<br />
<br />
"Besides," I said. "In the great story of humankind, we do know the ending already. When all of this is over, we know that good will win over evil."<br />
<br />
"I know," he said, and then he ran off to play.Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-26453609555303045542013-01-15T15:07:00.000-07:002013-01-16T11:54:53.664-07:00Snow and Celebrating: Happy New Year!We have a tradition of bundling the kids up and driving north once a year to find the snow. Mitch and I have great sledding/snowman-building/cocoa-drinking memories from our childhoods, and we want the same for our kids. This time we decided to combine our snow day with our New Year's celebration. <br />
<br />
It was so fun! Even though it was too cold to build snowmen, we had two days of fun in the snow. Here are some pictures from our fun in the frozen north. <br />
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On the last day of the year we found a beautiful place to play and we were the only ones there.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39Csf3NaFtRrfPlhGK2Q5vDlogVCzbop9ALA9NkzBXK96FVmRi7S-qJAXgfZRoX_Tg89J35dMGoZFnMijHWKD-lz2vE8hMcMjBQvj4PJoeU_AXtthPIPo4OWEEFhaaipdk3gP_NO4Hm1Z/s1600/IMG_2642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39Csf3NaFtRrfPlhGK2Q5vDlogVCzbop9ALA9NkzBXK96FVmRi7S-qJAXgfZRoX_Tg89J35dMGoZFnMijHWKD-lz2vE8hMcMjBQvj4PJoeU_AXtthPIPo4OWEEFhaaipdk3gP_NO4Hm1Z/s640/IMG_2642.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We were also the first ones to sled here after the recent snowfall, so that meant the boys had to blaze sledding trails down the hill. It was very cold and there was so much snow, which meant lots of work!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqlemwojaR2gKLnQOlbTA7AFJfIpTMQ493WWAmRfJOpvjR6-B120gZrkcPJkKbQdI1v3J59ZUm8boanLIHSH8JTuCHQQ4LUQoQaaucR6p_Wh60HlUp-9sh7gfFULzTp-CdqZFlwMre_YXJ/s1600/IMG_2645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqlemwojaR2gKLnQOlbTA7AFJfIpTMQ493WWAmRfJOpvjR6-B120gZrkcPJkKbQdI1v3J59ZUm8boanLIHSH8JTuCHQQ4LUQoQaaucR6p_Wh60HlUp-9sh7gfFULzTp-CdqZFlwMre_YXJ/s640/IMG_2645.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
But before long they were flying down the hill and having fun, though at the bottom of this run, Brandt turned and screamed up the hill as loudly as he could. He'd been blasted in the face with powder at the bottom of the hill and it was quite a shock for him.<br />
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Another exhilarating moment for Brandt on this day was his first experience creating yellow snow. Yeah, that is exciting for little boys.<br />
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Adam wanted to make a snow angel.<br />
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We saw this sign as we were leaving. Apparently there is a frozen pond under all that snow and ice at the base of the hill. Oops. We'd steer clear next time.<br />
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That night I decorated our hotel room because I'm a nerd like that. We celebrated by watching movies, playing a ton of games, and eating snacks. I had a package for the kids to open on every hour starting at 7:00 pm, with something fun inside: poppers, noise makers, a time capsule sheet, special treats (Tim Tam Slams!), etc. Just before midnight we switched on the TV to watch the ball drop in NYC. Then the kids pulled our balloon-drop ripcord, we toasted with sparkling strawberry soda, and lit sparklers in the frozen night on our balcony. <br />
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New Years Day we played with <a href="http://www.playcreateexplore.com/2012/08/summer-snowball-fight-with-fluffy-stuff.html">fluffy stuff</a> in the hotel room, thereafter employing the vacuum. The kids played with this happily for over an hour.<br />
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In the afternoon we went back to our awesome sledding site. Though still very cold, it was sunny with no wind, and a beautiful day for sledding. And since we had made our sledding paths the day before, it was smooth sailing.<br />
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Since then, Brandt has prayed almost daily, "...and thankful for me to play in the snow."<br />
Bright blessings and happy new year to you all!<br />
<br />Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-7356164713033029672013-01-15T14:01:00.000-07:002013-01-15T17:42:34.052-07:00Christmas 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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December was busy. School and music events and performances, Mitch's formal work party, two church-related Christmas parties, Conjunctivitis, colds, and coughs, doctors' appointments, a backpacking trip, church callings, a concert, hosting two holilday dinner parties; All of this made for <strike>craziness </strike> a busy holiday season. Sound familiar?<br />
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Here are a few pictures from December.<br />
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I made these <a href="http://abigailmooney.squarespace.com/down-abbies-road/2009/12/5/salt-dough-ornamentstags-with-a-twist.html">salt dough ornaments</a> as a Christmas gift for the children in our Primary.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvK9iARTqJBaH4qBHtfGGUehugPCG1LrRC_EeT4A3otxrYy4CXtVfieHgIDBTyLHmLcXHdT_Eziu0aeyGDVbpQAcNze7TGuSkyibyfz5ADi8NqCA9dpPlWIadYK03RhXa612Qa8uxVOWwz/s1600/CTR+Salt+Dough+Ornaments.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvK9iARTqJBaH4qBHtfGGUehugPCG1LrRC_EeT4A3otxrYy4CXtVfieHgIDBTyLHmLcXHdT_Eziu0aeyGDVbpQAcNze7TGuSkyibyfz5ADi8NqCA9dpPlWIadYK03RhXa612Qa8uxVOWwz/s400/CTR+Salt+Dough+Ornaments.jpg" width="392" /></a></div>
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I was so excited to have a chance to use this<a href="http://onecharmingparty.com/2011/03/04/ice-cream-party-cake-ice-cream/"> fun decorating idea</a> for a friend's birthday.<br />
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Gingerbread houses with the kids.<br />
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My family exchanges home-made ornaments each year. This was mine for this year. I used the same <a href="http://www.bhg.com/christmas/crafts/make-christmas-ornaments-with-felt/#page=14">technique </a>to make poinsettias to decorate a tree skirt I made for the tree in our family room.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDH4HT4_5VLnyr6Ins5H8_OS5qZmZxKTfrfXXl5ajPRsNKu0DgpoLKy2Qh9QQBQ0uNcqI2f7mzk7ptfyVeWaqZtiREKOg1UxGlEExF4omXi8Pp-kxVVCd-NzFesLtJurIfh60r9motXIT7/s1600/IMG_2607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDH4HT4_5VLnyr6Ins5H8_OS5qZmZxKTfrfXXl5ajPRsNKu0DgpoLKy2Qh9QQBQ0uNcqI2f7mzk7ptfyVeWaqZtiREKOg1UxGlEExF4omXi8Pp-kxVVCd-NzFesLtJurIfh60r9motXIT7/s640/IMG_2607.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also made<a href="http://www.savorncmagazine.com/blog/christmas-balls-light-up-plaza-midwood-in-charlotte/"> balls like these</a> to use for our outdoor lights display.<br />
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Another fun thing we did was create a 12-days of Christmas for our cousins who are living in China, using their guinea pig, Snowball, who we adopted when they left the country almost two years ago. We emailed them one photo each day for twelve days leading up to Christmas. It was one of our favorite Christmas activities!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJiKKQqCrtaZCU7gi-94-daOdZkAQYHhxHbDdi5YlmEI_ewS3MAoCqGcjmRooo-yZpSIBXDQstmPKiDpQB5woiuRoaNsMsOsvLD-Q_fDkT1OaFZrG7gHgdgweennIzeJiDcm2dB_SiaDAm/s1600/Snowball+day+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJiKKQqCrtaZCU7gi-94-daOdZkAQYHhxHbDdi5YlmEI_ewS3MAoCqGcjmRooo-yZpSIBXDQstmPKiDpQB5woiuRoaNsMsOsvLD-Q_fDkT1OaFZrG7gHgdgweennIzeJiDcm2dB_SiaDAm/s400/Snowball+day+12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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On top of everything,or rather, in spite of all of that, I really wanted my kids to get a sense of what Christmas is all about. I wanted them to remember the reason we celebrate, and give them a taste of that great feeling you get when you give selfless service to others. But sometimes it's hard. Sometimes it's too busy. The kids aren't listening. There's so much to distract them. <br />
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So I planned some service opportunities. WAY to many service opportunities for us to get all of them done (the goal was one a day, ha!), but we did get some done and it really made a difference in the feeling in our home around Christmas!<br />
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Here are some of our favorites:<br />
Taped quarters to vending machines<br />
Donated new clothes and toys for local kids in need<br />
Baked <a href="http://buddingbaketress.blogspot.com/2011/12/gingerdoodles-or-snickersnaps.html">these cookies</a> for our local fire fighters (who then graciously gave us our very own tour!)<br />
Taped candy canes to ATMs<br />
Gave small toys to random kids at a playground<br />
Donated food through the kids' school to local food banks<br />
Picked up trash all along the way to school<br />
Donated some of our toys and clothes<br />
Made stuffed sock snowmen to donate<br />
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I am so glad we did some simple acts of service. Although the month was crazy (I literally had to fish a jingle bell out of my youngest son's right nostril one night) I think it really made a difference to the kids to spend time serving others and feel the spirit of Christmas. I know it made a difference for me.Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-45559419436618871642012-11-27T19:35:00.001-07:002012-11-28T18:47:59.397-07:00Lest You Think...I love reading back over my blog and remembering. It's fun to see pictures of when my boys were younger, read funny quotes, remember Christmases. <br />
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But I was noticing that most of my posts are happy, happy.<br />
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Let it be known that I have my sads too. I have my let-downs, my tantrums, my challenges.<br />
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Take today for example. It was an ordinary day:<br />
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I had two kids home with Pinkeye.<br />
One of those two kids refuses to do his business in the toilet and therefore...<br />
One of those two kids ran around the house with a naked bum all day, a desperate tactic.<br />
I have a big zit on my cheek.<br />
I yelled at Caleb this morning.<br />
I felt overwhelmed with upcoming Christmas preparations and activities.<br />
One of the kids needed an emergency bedding wash.<br />
There were already two loads of cold, unfolded laundry piled up.<br />
Brandt and I had a power struggle over him only eating the m&ms in his trail mix.<br />
I gave in.<br />
The aforementioned nuts and raisins were scattered across the kitchen floor.<br />
I got a minor injury on my finger.<br />
I cooked Lime Coconut Curry Chicken over rice and went through the farce of serving it to my family when I knew only Mitch would eat it.<br />
Today when I stepped on the scale it told me that I'm heavier than I've been since I was battling Brandt's baby weight. <br />
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But! On the other hand:<br />
The pink eye is retreating.<br />
The naked-bum tactic really does help!<br />
I apologized to Caleb and we're friends again.<br />
I got our Christmas activities planned for the month of December, and filled our activity advent calendar.<br />
I made a handmade gift for my mom (one for me too).<br />
Bedding and laundry is folded and actually put away.<br />
Brandt and I swept up together.<br />
The rosy hues of the sunset were unreal, and I got to see it because Mitch called me and told me about it on his way home.<br />
Caleb ate all his Coconut Lime Curry Chicken.<br />
I worked out with my husband this morning.<br />
I got to listen to some beautiful music today.<br />
I got Dallin and Adam on the floor rolling with laughter. They're ticklish.<br />
I helped Adam with his homework.<br />
I put out some beautiful lights around our nativity scene.<br />
My new phone came in the mail.<br />
The dishes are done and tonight I get to go to book club with some amazing, intelligent friends.<br />
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I think that when I look back at my life I'll remember mostly the good stuff. But I think it is good to keep a real perspective too because without a few downs it would be hard to really appreciate the ups.<br />
<br />Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-14492875691782831062012-11-26T10:44:00.000-07:002013-03-22T19:43:45.727-07:00ThankfulAfter our feast of Thanksgiving we went on a hike in the Superstition wilderness. <br />
The air was mild, the sunlight, golden. And it sure felt good to get up and move after such a busy morning cooking and a full-belly feast. <br />
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While we walked in the desert splendor, and as I watched those sunlit heads bobbing ahead of me I was momentarily choked with gratitude to my Heavenly Father for my life. For those boys, and their strong, handsome dad leading us. For the sun, the air, the path under my feet, and my healthy body. For everything.<br />
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And then Brandt wanted his picture taken, I swallowed the lump in my throat, and life continued. </div>
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But I cherish moments of communion like that like little gems.</div>
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One thing my boys like to do is throw rocks, and at home I have to say, "Put that rock down. No throwing rocks!" I love going hiking with the boys because they can throw rocks to their heart's content. And play with sticks. And climb. <br />
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And climb some more. </div>
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And just </div>
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be boys.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenr3pOPsWO5XaOYWruQCWSsCzBZtYzVe47WhYAosI3FoW_JQHAz3fWA9BD9GetWzOwJCq8C1M7C9C7Ti6mIOvgNI7RAffa4tOUsnSgr9ewjyU-ECSZJ897BB6iGJRTe6BapQZQpIBP3U_/s1600/IMG_4042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenr3pOPsWO5XaOYWruQCWSsCzBZtYzVe47WhYAosI3FoW_JQHAz3fWA9BD9GetWzOwJCq8C1M7C9C7Ti6mIOvgNI7RAffa4tOUsnSgr9ewjyU-ECSZJ897BB6iGJRTe6BapQZQpIBP3U_/s640/IMG_4042.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">They need that. </span></div>
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On the way back home Brandt fell asleep in the warmth of his car seat and had to be awakened for pie. Boy, were we all ready for that pie. And though I was worried because I baked my mom's Apple Slices Pie for the first time, there was no need to be. Mmmm. <br />
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It was a beautiful day. And I hope your's was too.<br />
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-79875079710471933892012-11-12T12:40:00.000-07:002012-11-12T12:50:02.394-07:00Piano, Puppets, and a Pretty Deep Bow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">Brandt has been into the performing arts lately. One day he said, "Mom, I'm going to play you a song." Then he sat at the piano and played freely (with a grape in his cheek here). When he was satisfied he jumped off the bench and announced that he was done. </span></div>
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After the second performance I taught him to stand and bow while I applauded. He liked that. And then it was my turn to play and then bow while he clapped.<br />
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We repeated this scenario a few times. Sometimes I thought Brandt might tip right over from the depth of his bow.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrZSrSTMxZndZKNeU2-9n0L4pw2PR78NedUWXRHH4QJgJJ6o60g7Xg9mVclhUmy0plh2mDzbNO7RjzBIMBcY_4Oqk6Ho9Qr434p85QeaPyp9yjRwgIMROr0f0yrtz_4BNCI84sp9lzoZy4/s1600/IMG_2490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrZSrSTMxZndZKNeU2-9n0L4pw2PR78NedUWXRHH4QJgJJ6o60g7Xg9mVclhUmy0plh2mDzbNO7RjzBIMBcY_4Oqk6Ho9Qr434p85QeaPyp9yjRwgIMROr0f0yrtz_4BNCI84sp9lzoZy4/s640/IMG_2490.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Not long afterwards, Brandt asked if he could play puppets. <br />
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His older brothers arrived home from school just in time to see some of his shows, the plots of which mostly followed this pattern:<br />
1- Character 1 goes looking for Character 2 and, with help from the audience, finds him. <br />
2- Characters 1 and 2 proceed to wrestle or fight.<br />
3- Adam got to determine which character would win, until Dallin got fed up and told Brandt to decide on his own.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxktT4QVtmXbiVM6xyL_wuCwAY48pRyQ7Nl06QDXJuqWtkAQc0w1agYueMz1CsZ07eccafYW361RH9NC1iSFJElAo-mYHGx8YFZVht8xmi3aeEL6aDeAjnOBCH2bLqOwC1fgf3ZnlZnZlw/s1600/IMG_2495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxktT4QVtmXbiVM6xyL_wuCwAY48pRyQ7Nl06QDXJuqWtkAQc0w1agYueMz1CsZ07eccafYW361RH9NC1iSFJElAo-mYHGx8YFZVht8xmi3aeEL6aDeAjnOBCH2bLqOwC1fgf3ZnlZnZlw/s640/IMG_2495.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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These were the best seats in the house.<br />
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I loved watching Brandt enjoy being creative and in the spotlight with his older brothers' attention on him.<br />
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<br />Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-60415110639085906722012-11-08T12:21:00.001-07:002012-11-08T12:21:42.920-07:00Mt. Lemmon in AutumnRecently we took off after Saturday soccer games and drove down to Tucson for the weekend. Mitch wanted to go see Mount Lemmon, since we've lived here all these years and we've never been there. <br />
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It could not have been more beautiful. The weather was in full cooperation too, and we relished the chilly breeze as we picnicked near the summit. What a view of the desert floor and rolling brown hills below! And the leaves! Each fall I speak of these great plans for getting away to "see the leaves." See, not many leaves (read: none) turn brilliant colors in my neighborhood and I really miss that part of fall. So when I saw the gold and red as we flashed by on our way to the summit, I was so excited!<br />
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The only bad part was that I forgot the camera! I wanted to record some of the beauty around us but all I had was my phone. Here are some of those pics.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbCTwMNetILIvdtBj-W9fnD4ny2-X68lr875ek1X98sZ10Db_fJL5rl5bMZr2heeL-VzJi1hRW2HDpvjPM57CixkyQEOmyf4UO5Br56Eo34UcovpZJVzZL_479dHU2GJOpqYPco81FJknB/s1600/IMG_20121028_135505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbCTwMNetILIvdtBj-W9fnD4ny2-X68lr875ek1X98sZ10Db_fJL5rl5bMZr2heeL-VzJi1hRW2HDpvjPM57CixkyQEOmyf4UO5Br56Eo34UcovpZJVzZL_479dHU2GJOpqYPco81FJknB/s640/IMG_20121028_135505.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7zFBHksVbT_VLnSpQwU7G97xOMJ3ypeA8Xi1Vt8rQbLNuiqq6sxa7dP13p8dkRf2LzXFW3EUQvuAHnESIy_2dnl_76qGVX6dNALj-fELreGu-ggd0I5sMz5SbkIm85B6bCfGMrp_ToUy/s1600/IMG_20121028_135605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7zFBHksVbT_VLnSpQwU7G97xOMJ3ypeA8Xi1Vt8rQbLNuiqq6sxa7dP13p8dkRf2LzXFW3EUQvuAHnESIy_2dnl_76qGVX6dNALj-fELreGu-ggd0I5sMz5SbkIm85B6bCfGMrp_ToUy/s640/IMG_20121028_135605.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcCqv3sy4NM3hhB8sdcqvcQrgDlaEJwOEgXNk3Cv8n5rScdVbyvbs92k4C1c_gzhUKsgyc-FASICwGJp4lL_OWwi7NNANTCjAFeVlzmRhjuUCPgS85gONhtjkLXDt8DUB1KoB906qwqYgr/s1600/IMG_20121028_135449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcCqv3sy4NM3hhB8sdcqvcQrgDlaEJwOEgXNk3Cv8n5rScdVbyvbs92k4C1c_gzhUKsgyc-FASICwGJp4lL_OWwi7NNANTCjAFeVlzmRhjuUCPgS85gONhtjkLXDt8DUB1KoB906qwqYgr/s640/IMG_20121028_135449.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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It was a beautiful day, and I'm glad my kids got to see those leaves. They were like gold. Each boy chose one favorite leaf to bring home and I have them pressed into a book to help them remember.Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-72038932562976692832012-11-08T12:01:00.003-07:002012-11-08T12:01:54.172-07:00Halloween 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzm-zp9Cmo7mJSwvlSYhXB7emQXohDOsUyCP8-Lk8Ho5OiKZj3LyzvKMYzOthk4l1W4n39r9g82uqmRS8IxntJEQ8guqDmWcp2NRtXQRkeLhLg7lBsV6NhabDOrUjhndhy5iLYQjQGDCh/s1600/IMG_2423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzm-zp9Cmo7mJSwvlSYhXB7emQXohDOsUyCP8-Lk8Ho5OiKZj3LyzvKMYzOthk4l1W4n39r9g82uqmRS8IxntJEQ8guqDmWcp2NRtXQRkeLhLg7lBsV6NhabDOrUjhndhy5iLYQjQGDCh/s640/IMG_2423.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Halloween breakfast: pumpkin pancakes</div>
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Cowboy, Ninja, Buzz Lightyear, and Alien Abduction</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66_4ie5PYSqWZDhcTobr3Dnd7lykG2uvfmDGnu7p91H8HeEobmGdgA0IA7KNKls8ltMOkamsmQhLdYc3EV8Dzv0a1UDfJ7RTa-jRa4tviZUlEvInftspIuq8ygS1G8kXYih0zsK349GSF/s1600/IMG_2435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66_4ie5PYSqWZDhcTobr3Dnd7lykG2uvfmDGnu7p91H8HeEobmGdgA0IA7KNKls8ltMOkamsmQhLdYc3EV8Dzv0a1UDfJ7RTa-jRa4tviZUlEvInftspIuq8ygS1G8kXYih0zsK349GSF/s640/IMG_2435.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Brandt, I mean Buzz, feeling bashful</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoj_qbp00rLU2wseqEdENQ3QIJdB8dqp2FrQ1P24mhl5hFXpmqA8mwFr9qpJe45oJhcofCCGkkBT75zNg3mbBNLCI-0dDWMGsO7OBsoCgAdYpXDIf7h-0CweHzpzfXM6ZqypJsX6ZiSRF/s1600/IMG_2440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoj_qbp00rLU2wseqEdENQ3QIJdB8dqp2FrQ1P24mhl5hFXpmqA8mwFr9qpJe45oJhcofCCGkkBT75zNg3mbBNLCI-0dDWMGsO7OBsoCgAdYpXDIf7h-0CweHzpzfXM6ZqypJsX6ZiSRF/s640/IMG_2440.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Dallin is being taken, right before our eyes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrc2a9jM9xU8CgSA-JV1NMMlvX5z_Lxi2NxGoKuj8Zefs7iNRlci25wKfiLFhk2WOerMSBsJ9Dr3bTZ2rK8QxfpyL9vkWE8wuc0oFWMFKB8oYIW6hH_Ii4HHit9XAWsEzSIwD9B4FT4A48/s1600/IMG_2422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrc2a9jM9xU8CgSA-JV1NMMlvX5z_Lxi2NxGoKuj8Zefs7iNRlci25wKfiLFhk2WOerMSBsJ9Dr3bTZ2rK8QxfpyL9vkWE8wuc0oFWMFKB8oYIW6hH_Ii4HHit9XAWsEzSIwD9B4FT4A48/s640/IMG_2422.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Jack O'Lanterns: Adam's/mine, Brandt's/Mitch's, Caleb's (Domo-inspired), and Dallin's. Notice that Dallin's is eating sweets.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwdgSku_Z0QVWMJH2VOMl8K9H48Ybe9Ba20L9PSfcwDmnKJDpYgXxOAAulmB0nEieKf3EhbV2tN6kzZZcywf4qUgtynnJSrwFFxEa3FZAgN3whWMQ7dM-yLZI95a2m_TyNSfewwtSWkEP/s1600/IMG_2444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwdgSku_Z0QVWMJH2VOMl8K9H48Ybe9Ba20L9PSfcwDmnKJDpYgXxOAAulmB0nEieKf3EhbV2tN6kzZZcywf4qUgtynnJSrwFFxEa3FZAgN3whWMQ7dM-yLZI95a2m_TyNSfewwtSWkEP/s640/IMG_2444.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Howdy! Have you got any candy? That's what Adam want's to know.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gpxslaPaQPaojI32dD61y_ApIX6Bn4XQopwYxcA5itAdxlwXNEY6RK79Nyd2kbNnaYkT7WlRiurQj8qsK2DAIm8ABIRB7nCYatn7_BNse_qO36-RR4M7WVN5OqQDtok0y5wwsVGblPT9/s1600/IMG_2454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gpxslaPaQPaojI32dD61y_ApIX6Bn4XQopwYxcA5itAdxlwXNEY6RK79Nyd2kbNnaYkT7WlRiurQj8qsK2DAIm8ABIRB7nCYatn7_BNse_qO36-RR4M7WVN5OqQDtok0y5wwsVGblPT9/s640/IMG_2454.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Caleb melts into the darkness, emerging only for treats. </div>
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Happy Halloween!</div>
Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-36352980628950812632012-11-08T11:26:00.000-07:002012-11-12T10:26:18.008-07:00Oceanside<div style="text-align: center;">
We spent a few days in Oceanside over Fall Break. Mitch's parents came with us and we had a lovely trip. We spent most of our time on the beach. Here are a few favorite pictures.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPV_iCUn4zDeHXJQig-KLUiHK_dQOqMeTGnKb4USPmkz9Dc7PsOVUWm9ZDldtqHxDxM15oVfUlnMWgyZhOGZWY3LLo8j4ip7TLtYaiZBN7vajgoCr-4sEhL3LEAr9RlZjyZ4m0i2vciuX/s1600/IMG_2043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPV_iCUn4zDeHXJQig-KLUiHK_dQOqMeTGnKb4USPmkz9Dc7PsOVUWm9ZDldtqHxDxM15oVfUlnMWgyZhOGZWY3LLo8j4ip7TLtYaiZBN7vajgoCr-4sEhL3LEAr9RlZjyZ4m0i2vciuX/s640/IMG_2043.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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As soon as we got there the kids got busy digging in the sand, making pits, castles, sand turtle.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjozh0izoYajTbFfiSrC3DpwzGTCh3j4bnSFuAmlZ-5IZl07Wd7zO34Z4kWZixAA_ghaz7oIjySq3lq6wBI3EOmuedPy6iGHUiRZom3vpVETR9RZDer9yd-kVoJU6jppz68Zuc1FFj0wCYJ/s1600/IMG_2125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjozh0izoYajTbFfiSrC3DpwzGTCh3j4bnSFuAmlZ-5IZl07Wd7zO34Z4kWZixAA_ghaz7oIjySq3lq6wBI3EOmuedPy6iGHUiRZom3vpVETR9RZDer9yd-kVoJU6jppz68Zuc1FFj0wCYJ/s640/IMG_2125.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mitch, Caleb and I worked together on this guy. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8fGCMijideYiRQQn0uE4Zr8QvXy3-WXdjJlTycj1PZmxr2R9O2fI4g6jgrid8v1M3PA8UU5S40YDHvUmk6Y3fAqUujPo78mDkbbwSBUTDkmhyDdx5gy0k8X4ZEmo6K8_pnukSPwfvwxkE/s1600/IMG_2105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8fGCMijideYiRQQn0uE4Zr8QvXy3-WXdjJlTycj1PZmxr2R9O2fI4g6jgrid8v1M3PA8UU5S40YDHvUmk6Y3fAqUujPo78mDkbbwSBUTDkmhyDdx5gy0k8X4ZEmo6K8_pnukSPwfvwxkE/s640/IMG_2105.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Yes, we hauled this shovel to Oceanside in the back of our minivan. Yes, it was worth it. It was the best thing for finding sand crabs.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGIwJzcvAi8kbO8kfX7hnn_O1rfmSk_txuYb35FFWOZHy_WDGxl87Bk2TBa4MlxsJtWohZ8sTOcQL5zBGTjPN9My7nrdKdO0EqPUgj23Bihj2n_ShcgNs5fSe-h7EUG3l103CGKMZpz-_/s1600/IMG_2077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGIwJzcvAi8kbO8kfX7hnn_O1rfmSk_txuYb35FFWOZHy_WDGxl87Bk2TBa4MlxsJtWohZ8sTOcQL5zBGTjPN9My7nrdKdO0EqPUgj23Bihj2n_ShcgNs5fSe-h7EUG3l103CGKMZpz-_/s640/IMG_2077.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Brand thought this shovel was alright too. He loved playing in the sand but he was pretty nervous about all of those foaming waves that kept coming at him. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEd-T135x0s_-EgRGWKnC_m6SqQ_0JteBd7Mn84cvjUYHlC-kwI4PMzVpOKQaHHNGTvBa3QZhUdsmdD_aH79Z_u8XWm1MPbWJQqfqF4I4_6JHnEH0ePaB5cQr4uyLXL2ukVYTSXXcfFe7/s1600/IMG_2044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEd-T135x0s_-EgRGWKnC_m6SqQ_0JteBd7Mn84cvjUYHlC-kwI4PMzVpOKQaHHNGTvBa3QZhUdsmdD_aH79Z_u8XWm1MPbWJQqfqF4I4_6JHnEH0ePaB5cQr4uyLXL2ukVYTSXXcfFe7/s640/IMG_2044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Brandt kept a pretty close eye on those waves, and ran away every time...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42PBN4CbLBA5N8W9NSgxotnaDNQ0Ie6dtZszaJ_vupnpa4gjSYt0yEpc3OFHRgJyFDzJjGLL150DPnBq0NWUzlBSm_PQlJdKKKSaq3aua_jWH_n9dR78WRm21yIagQCqHf4RGtK5YUFnK/s1600/IMG_2140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42PBN4CbLBA5N8W9NSgxotnaDNQ0Ie6dtZszaJ_vupnpa4gjSYt0yEpc3OFHRgJyFDzJjGLL150DPnBq0NWUzlBSm_PQlJdKKKSaq3aua_jWH_n9dR78WRm21yIagQCqHf4RGtK5YUFnK/s640/IMG_2140.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcHBNioq7EFOJWGmNVRJghV8bx7yQnvQcYrrWxivF7d3-C3OwCTbWP6YRqBVKYZc7scPoNiEHRLVV4yJYnxPDauwatewiwwMcKVQhWPZQOpwoBP_ZbJxvLX3Saio4Bx0l9Ta2kVsHSkaqh/s1600/IMG_2142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcHBNioq7EFOJWGmNVRJghV8bx7yQnvQcYrrWxivF7d3-C3OwCTbWP6YRqBVKYZc7scPoNiEHRLVV4yJYnxPDauwatewiwwMcKVQhWPZQOpwoBP_ZbJxvLX3Saio4Bx0l9Ta2kVsHSkaqh/s640/IMG_2142.JPG" width="476" /></a></div>
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...even when his big, strong dad was sitting right next to him.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRF9u85NS0cE7nyXzMCPHqeuM7puyxrWhEtsh0Hm8lHjKi4x-xxGkocDWwj939pxbhN-KfgHYSZVkAldKO1fZ5HPvb7eaNe2gs2Rz5rqMZfLUQTx_TqT2TJfBNmyPjL-2oEVw3Wta17UKO/s1600/IMG_2141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRF9u85NS0cE7nyXzMCPHqeuM7puyxrWhEtsh0Hm8lHjKi4x-xxGkocDWwj939pxbhN-KfgHYSZVkAldKO1fZ5HPvb7eaNe2gs2Rz5rqMZfLUQTx_TqT2TJfBNmyPjL-2oEVw3Wta17UKO/s640/IMG_2141.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Adam loved playing in the waves,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZpEeXHPVz5PisGHI8_mw6TbdSXC6ELW6iJFuOC0QdETYC28zSv6Vgy-tlD_X9TmfNFrWb_zxMky_cxoOejGZBi47HnQnWVujlHzO2aUiAT8Ga4zq5U9nfluGJoBsf_MySM2YobPQ9CCV/s1600/IMG_2090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZpEeXHPVz5PisGHI8_mw6TbdSXC6ELW6iJFuOC0QdETYC28zSv6Vgy-tlD_X9TmfNFrWb_zxMky_cxoOejGZBi47HnQnWVujlHzO2aUiAT8Ga4zq5U9nfluGJoBsf_MySM2YobPQ9CCV/s640/IMG_2090.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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but he spent most of the time digging, and scooping, and digging some more. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYzpXz2K9EeYeZwGrXYdtN3cYihQxzDLC7lXwEdq9OJicbBddZQ8lZEdvm3UV866IKiygPVQOTG3NMN9gAFpy_W7v6BQy9XnNCGU9U3NF0PrE8P__7EPIwkJsGZ5QOvS793LF6fQFvzMFR/s1600/IMG_2128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYzpXz2K9EeYeZwGrXYdtN3cYihQxzDLC7lXwEdq9OJicbBddZQ8lZEdvm3UV866IKiygPVQOTG3NMN9gAFpy_W7v6BQy9XnNCGU9U3NF0PrE8P__7EPIwkJsGZ5QOvS793LF6fQFvzMFR/s640/IMG_2128.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The ocean inspires contemplation.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgKevqLvsBk269L80vUCV1jAxkeYMg5yY0aLUuH-oKYHp5drcPSPdEiOF4tGdNUX3YA-IX_Ie7aDLwe3TWSoySTtD5IKEs4XqFy1QBn_1sQJ654lNtNi8S71GQjNHltrnPt0VHhXbOtW1/s1600/IMG_2084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgKevqLvsBk269L80vUCV1jAxkeYMg5yY0aLUuH-oKYHp5drcPSPdEiOF4tGdNUX3YA-IX_Ie7aDLwe3TWSoySTtD5IKEs4XqFy1QBn_1sQJ654lNtNi8S71GQjNHltrnPt0VHhXbOtW1/s640/IMG_2084.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Or maybe it was just fun to watch those surfers out there. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipXyOq6zDj5qpEuUurjYk_vtD49IRcZQQjPqYBBL-v4UyCjrHX9dzBUvOaFTzhLRgubagoYE3qrl4pUUgURovY_5G71NVL1JxJ2UvqspNMuD5d98MzU4QvBg4KV9EvzgT0hlrFa-STsz-h/s1600/IMG_2163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipXyOq6zDj5qpEuUurjYk_vtD49IRcZQQjPqYBBL-v4UyCjrHX9dzBUvOaFTzhLRgubagoYE3qrl4pUUgURovY_5G71NVL1JxJ2UvqspNMuD5d98MzU4QvBg4KV9EvzgT0hlrFa-STsz-h/s640/IMG_2163.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mitch bought a couple of boogie boards, which were a hit.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZoPmU4HrCyzzaTMbN6t3opGn3Zvrys0FFj6s_vGHRNGrgyBsVHBJh1SBjuhTrDbuSSFk7B-cYbFt8XT5JZPrTDWEvQuOixYk4jw53aFa7rTeZn2DkKoc3bU8zCH_USEyVSzkk2fPMPqA3/s1600/IMG_2100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZoPmU4HrCyzzaTMbN6t3opGn3Zvrys0FFj6s_vGHRNGrgyBsVHBJh1SBjuhTrDbuSSFk7B-cYbFt8XT5JZPrTDWEvQuOixYk4jw53aFa7rTeZn2DkKoc3bU8zCH_USEyVSzkk2fPMPqA3/s640/IMG_2100.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Sea fort</div>
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Leaning</div>
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One morning we went to La Jolla. When we arrived it was cool and misty, which is pretty much opposite normal conditions at home. I think Adam's and Brandt's favorite part of that trip was chasing the seagulls in the mist. </div>
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Grandma and Grandpa after the mist burned off.</div>
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We went to La Jolla in hopes of seeing sea lions and seals, which we did. But the Dallin thought the best part of all was walking down near this "sea cave" and being splashed by the spray. </div>
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Back at Oceanside, things got pretty silly before we left.</div>
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It was a great trip!</div>
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-13201193080520233572012-10-23T09:08:00.000-07:002012-10-23T09:19:03.862-07:00Hairy Little MonstersAdam's new little friend from school has been wanting to have a playdate with Adam for awhile now. His mom and I finally coordinated our schedules so we could meet up at the park yesterday after school. The kids played on the playground while the friend's mom told me how much her son admired Adam and wants to emulate him. Then she said,<br />
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"He doesn't want to comb his hair because he says,<br />
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She had just told me she was a hair stylist. Haha!</div>
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So I'm not so good at styling my boys' hair. Actually my solution to the problem is usually to cut their hair off when it gets too long to look good without combing. And, it's time to do that again. But I still think they look adorable, my little monsters.</div>
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-73955314329746750452012-10-22T22:26:00.002-07:002012-10-23T09:30:13.846-07:00Just ChipsAt lunch yesterday Brandt declared,<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"I don't want a fruit or vegetable. I just want chips."</span></div>
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I had the feeling the other boys secretly agreed with him, though they wisely ate their meal, fruits and veggies included. Which is why I decided not to fret about the remark. Brandt will come around in time. I hope. And he actually did eat a few carrots eventually. </div>
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I know that being an example of a good eater is important. And I do my best. But the truth is, once in awhile I just want chips. Or, more often, chocolate. </div>
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-15340334994424348612012-10-18T23:11:00.001-07:002012-10-19T11:16:16.831-07:00FlatironI've been wanting to do this hike for a long time. It's the one people talk about, have stories about, and it's the one they point out, "you see on the mountain right there?" when in sight of the Superstition Mountains.<br />
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Let's borrow Wikipedia's <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superstition_Mountains">photo</a> to give you a visual:</div>
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<img alt="SUPERSTITIONS AZ15.jpg" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f4/SUPERSTITIONS_AZ15.jpg/284px-SUPERSTITIONS_AZ15.jpg" /></div>
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Flatiron is the first jagged peak from the right. </div>
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Mitch has hiked it several times with friends, family members... a random hiker group. He's even done it in the dark! </div>
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You can imagine my excitement when Mitch asked me earlier this month if I'd like him to take me. When I gave him a hard time about not bringing me before he said, "Well, you're finally not with child."</div>
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Right. <br />
Well, every time a previous trip was planned I was either pregnant or nursing a little one. By the way, this whole trip was made possible by my amazing parents-in-law who agreed to watch over said little ones.</div>
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We got up early to hit the mountain by about six (in Arizona it's important to beat the sun). The air was cool and the light a little dim when we got started, with all the colors muted. The thing about this hike is that it's steep. And rocky. And steep. Just getting to the first real landmark, Siphon Draw, my heart was really pumping. </div>
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And then we were scrambling up the slick rock, pausing for breath, and then plunging ahead to hike up the ravine, climbing rocks, weaving between branches of a few scattered Mesquite trees, and climbing more rocks.</div>
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And yes, I am wearing a dress. Big mistake. I wouldn't recommend it for steep hikes. </div>
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Anyway, as we reached the "first top" as Mitch termed it, I had just gasped out, "How many 'tops' are there?" when I was momentarily stunned by the sight of the hoodoos, stark against the sky and lit up with the rays of morning sunlight, desert plants scattered at their feet. It was such a beautiful sight!</div>
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Mitch pointed out Flatiron:</div>
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Mitch took this picture in 2008. We forgot to take one.</div>
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And then we continued to the summit. </div>
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The 360-degree view was spectacular. We rested as we sat together quietly, taking it all in. There was mixture of reverence and triumph in looking out together at the desert floor below and the mountains around us. Of solitude and togetherness. A good feeling.</div>
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The hike down was seemed to go by in a flash. I had so much fun, and I was so happy that I finally got to go!</div>
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-17568124930451314732012-10-18T21:38:00.002-07:002012-10-18T23:19:30.430-07:00Dallin's BaptismLast Saturday was a special day for this little boy. Only he's not so little any more. In fact, I could hardly believe it when this big day came and went.<br />
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It was the day of Dallin's baptism. He was so excited. He was excited to become the newest member of our <a href="http://mormon.org/">church</a>, and excited for friends and family to come celebrate with us.<br />
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His dad baptized him the same way Jesus was baptized, only Dallin might have actually preferred a river to the font.</div>
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Congratulations, Dallin! We love you, and are proud of you.</div>
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<br />Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-55300555108707944432012-10-12T09:14:00.001-07:002012-10-12T09:17:41.069-07:00Crazy Hair DayToday is Crazy Hair Day at the elementary school.<br />
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The kids normally have short, short hair and in the past we haven't really participated in Crazy Hair Day beyond a few gelled spikes.<br />
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This time the kids were determined (and they have a bit more hair to work with).<br />
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Dallin dearly wanted to dye his hair, but since he has blonde hair, and his baptism is tomorrow morning, I convinced him that may not be a wise choice. He had to settle for spikes and pick-up-sticks.<br />
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He was alright with that.<br />
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Since we didn't plan ahead beyond bedtime last night, I didn't have hair dye (and was too lazy for a nocturnal run to the store) we ground up our last bits of blue chalkboard chalk and used it to color Caleb's spikes. He decided they made a good sea for his little tropical friend.<br />
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Adam's interested in aliens right now so I thought it would be fun for him to sport some "alien eyes" among his locks.<br />
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He agreed.<br />
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What am I doing with my own hair for crazy hair day, you ask? I'm thinking a ponytail sounds good right about now. Sheesh. I have new respect for the daily morning routine of moms of little girls with long hair.<br />
<br />Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-41447444883101277652012-10-05T15:28:00.000-07:002012-10-05T15:28:37.097-07:00Moon CompanionWe were on our way to soccer practice a few evenings ago and as I turned out of our neighborhood I noticed the moon: bright, round, and nearly full. Brandt noticed too.<br />
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"Mom! The moon is moving!"<br />
I could hear the smile in his voice as he watched the moon, which appeared to be keeping pace with us as we flashed by trees, streets, and homes.<br />
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A few seconds later he added, delightedly, "The moon is going with us to the park!"<br />
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And you know, it did!Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-73511988835140939842012-10-04T13:59:00.000-07:002012-10-04T14:00:19.741-07:00Backpacking PoetryYesterday I sat cross-legged on the floor of our study, listening to the Ravel Piano Concerto <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftJ-gJ-l5HQ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftJ-gJ-l5HQ</a><br />
I grabbed a notepad and pencil and wrote this poem.<br />
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O, to lie<br />
Under the sky<br />
With my one<br />
And only hon<br />
Twinkle stars<br />
The view is ours<br />
Eat taquitos<br />
(No mosquitos)!<br />
Up with the sun<br />
Time for some fun<br />
Get across<br />
Don't get lost!<br />
Breathe the air<br />
Way up there<br />
Get that shot<br />
(We'd smile a lot).<br />
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This goes to show that serious classical music can sometimes inspire goofy poetry. I imagined it illustrated with simple animated stick figures of Mitch and me: in sleeping bags under twinkling stars, yawning in the rays of the rising sun, hopping a creek, and waving from the tip-top of a pencil-drawn mountain. I guess it's time for a backpacking trip!<br />
(Are taquitos considered lightweight backpacking fare)?Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-44636933823942547272011-08-11T12:33:00.001-07:002011-08-11T13:10:49.754-07:00Lembas BreadI recently indulged my inner nerd and made these <a href="http://www.entropyhouse.com/penwiper/costumes/lembas.html">Mallorn Leaf Wrappers</a> for my younger brother's birthday.<br />
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He's heading off to college so we gifted him a backpack to lug his stuff around in, and as he's a big LOTR fan I thought it would be fun and symbolic to zip some "Lembas bread" (homemade granola bars, although I tried a scone-like recipe for the picture) inside. A good excuse, right? When I told my kids about them they wanted one too, so I had to make us all one. Mitch is totally excited to take them on his next hike with friends and break them out when everyone's strength is flagging.Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-14105545167772574612011-08-11T12:12:00.001-07:002011-08-11T13:11:53.577-07:00First Day of School 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yesterday was the first day of school. I always have mixed feelings on the first day. I am excited for all the new things my kids will learn, the friends they'll make. I know they need the structure. And yet I miss them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4488061356915441395.post-22577780537742770462011-08-04T11:45:00.005-07:002011-08-04T14:13:46.919-07:00Challenges and Art ProjectsSometimes it's a struggle to keep the kids occupied in the summer. They've done their chores, played all their games, read books, watched movies, and now they're whining about being bored, sitting in front of the Wii for way to long, or fighting like cats and dogs. That's when an idea for a fun activity or challenge can really come in handy. Here are a few of the activities we've done this summer when boredom struck.<br />
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They had to build the tallest structure they could using drinking straws, paper clips, and playing cards.<br />
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Here I gave them a few boxes of dominoes, popsicle sticks, and plastic cups and told them to build something. They loved this and asked to do it again another day.<br />
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In this challenge they had to build a catapult using tape, a tongue depressor, a cup and a pipe cleaner. <br />
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This time they had to build something out of things they found in the recycle bin. They all opted for robots.<br />
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Yesterday we did an egg drop from 12-15 feet. The kids will had to protect their egg using string, cotton balls, Dixie cups and a freezer bag. Here's a picture before the drop.<br />
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Here's a video of the drop. <br />
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I didn't realize until just now when I watched it that Dallin's egg actually fell on the grass. Hmm, do you think the softer landing may have something to do with his egg being the only one to survive??? Either way, I promised to make cookies with any surviving egg(s), and having done that I just pulled the last white-chocolate chip cookies out of the oven. Mmmm. Thanks, Dallin (with a little help from the grass).<br />
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Most of these challenges were taken from this<a href="http://kidswhothink.blogspot.com/"> website</a>. I just stumbled across<a href="http://www.filthwizardry.com/"> this</a> blog, which has very creative ideas I want to try as well. I have also gotten a bunch of art ideas from this <a href="http://www.artprojectsforkids.org/">website</a>, including step-by-step instructions on how to draw this dog (Adam's, with very little help from me).<br />
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One of our next art projects will be these adorable <a href="http://www.crafty-crafted.com/animal-crafts/footprint-fish/">footprint fish</a>!Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847128849782497978noreply@blogger.com1