Mamablogues

My Bliss

2011-11-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

The day before Thanksgiving was a busy one. We were hosting my family this year, and even though everyone brought something, we still had lots of work to do. The boys retreated into their caves for the day while the girls and I got to work. I had so much fun cooking with them. We turned up the tunes and danced and cooked the day away. I kept thinking about how happy I was cooking with them.

We made the pretzel jello crust. Cornbread for the stuffing. Cranberry Sauce. Brined the turkey. Made place cards and cornucopias. Set the table. There was a bit of drama when I assigned Josh to finish the place cards when Emma went outside to play for a minute. Emma wanted the WHOLE job. We need to cook together more often!

It was a great day!

Caroline the pretzel smasher!

Emma dancing with her eggs

Super girl!

I loved Caroline's self portrait

Emma had never seen an uncooked turkey before! She was slightly appalled!

A Sandwich Maybe...But a Sweet Potato?

2011-11-23T05:11:00.007-07:00

Many years ago (like 15 or so) I remember watching a Martha Stewart episode in which she gushed about the deliciousness of sweet potatoes. I remember her saying that she was so fond of them that she quite often baked them in foil and then put a couple in her pocket so that she could nibble them on an airplane.

I giggle about this every Thanksgiving while the sweet potatoes are passed around. I snicker at the image in my head of Martha seated in first class nibbling her foil wrapped goodness. Wouldn't that be a sight to behold! I think of the person seated next to her as well, wondering why on earth Martha brought her own sweet potato on the airplane. REALLY MARTHA??? Hopefully you, too, will smile a bit as the sweet potatoes are passed your way this year.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Josh starts the "Occupy CTR 8" movement

2011-11-22T17:11:00.000-07:00

Better Than Christmas

2011-11-20T17:51:00.000-07:00

We could have told Caroline that she'd have to skip Christmas this year, but she could still apply for her own library card, and she would have been pleased as punch. She's been looking forward to getting her own card as soon as she turned 5. Fortunately her dad took her on a sneak out and got the job done. She's thrilled!

My Shopping Nightmare

2011-11-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

Love this look...but where to find all of it....and would it really fit me?!

Matt forwarded an invite to me for a holiday party. He had no idea that doing something as simple as that would send me into a tailspin. If I tell you that it is a party at the multi-million dollar home of his CEO, can you relate? If you have absolutely no idea of what frenzy I am talking about then you are the well dressed woman I envy. You are the woman who has a closet full of stylish clothes, and loves to shop for said wardrobe. You are the type of woman that can walk into any number of stores and leave with armloads full of fabulous items. You are the woman in which clothes drape as fabulously on you as the store mannequin. Me...not so much.

I really don't like to shop. It's a waste of time because I could spend hours wandering stores looking for the perfect item, and for whatever reason come home with nothing. I can think of four hundred things I would rather be doing than dashing in and out of dressing rooms. I would do all of my shopping online if I could get away with that. Only problem with shopping online is that the item usually looks so much more fabulous on my computer screen than on my body. You see, I'm short. At 5'2" it's hard to find things that look as great as on the twiggy model. The sleeves or the hemline are usually a couple of inches too long which requires some type of alteration which is really more work than I'm willing to put into clothing my body. Don't even get me started on the "petite" section. If I was 5'2" and 98 pounds, or wanted to dress like my grandma, I just might find something worth wearing there.

So to find something specific for a specific event makes me crazy. Annual family pictures, holiday parties, reunions...they all fall under the same stressful shopping category for me. If I could pay someone to shop for me I would. That's how much I really don't enjoy it. A better option would even be to find a website in which I could type in my exact measurements and have the clothes custom fit for me. Now there's a million dollar idea...one that probably already exists!?

I know I'm not the only person that feels this way. But, I sure do feel alone in a sea of well dressed beauties! Guess I should stop complaining and get to work. I've got some shopping to do!

A Promise Kept

2011-11-13T19:00:00.000-07:00

Four years ago we journeyed down to Springdale, UT. for the Butch Cassidy Race. It's either a 5K or 10K from Springdale to Grafton (a ghost town). We enjoyed the trip so much we vowed to make it a yearly tradition. Unfortunately life happened, and we spent 3 years away with other obligations.

Four years ago it was my first 10K. My first time running a race longer than 3 miles. This year it was Will's turn. A few months ago he reminded us of our promise to return yearly, and chided us for failing to do so. Even though Matt had some pretty big speaking engagements sandwiched around the race weekend in London and Orlando, he promised Will that we would go. Fortunately for us London was cancelled a few weeks prior which made the promise a little easier to keep.

Me and Will at 10K start

The family that runs together....

Matt, Josh, Emma, and Caroline at 5K start

Race morning dawned and it was C-O-L-D and the forecast was S-N-O-W. The problem when you travel several hundred miles for a race is that there really is no backing out. The race is what we'd come for. Will was really nervous before the start, and I was reminded of being so nervous four years ago. I knew that he wanted to run his own race, but hoped that he'd jog a few steps with me at the beginning. However, at the sound of the gun he was off...I didn't see him AT ALL until the finish line. The blinding snow started at about mile two. I kept scanning the crowd ahead of me during the race, but couldn't find him. He finished in 54 minutes, was the youngest runner to run, and so of course won his age group. Blue Ribbon for him and all!! He was pretty happy.

The 5K runners in the family had a different kind of race. After waiting under the heaters for the race start, the rain/snow mix began for them 2 minutes into the race. Caroline apparently cried....the entire race! Matt carried her on his shoulders almost the whole three miles. What a man! Josh and Emma ran walked together and talked and laughed through the snow.

This may be her last 5K?

The finish line was blustery, frigid, and intolerable for all of us. The hot chocolate helped, but only while we still had some to sip, We had to wait around for Will to get his medal, then wait for the shuttles to take us back to the start. We were all so miserably wet and cold...so much for running a race in Southern Utah for the weather! As we waited in the long shuttle line Matt and I were reminded of the pioneers that crossed the plains in similar conditions, only they didn't have a warm shower waiting for them back at the hotel. I don't know how many survived!

Hot chocolate makes all runners happy!

Will-First place in his age group!

We spent the rest of the day dining out, and driving and hiking around Zions Park. The following morning we left Springdale before sunrise to take Matt to the St. George airport to catch a flight to Orlando. As we drove through the dark Matt reminded the sleepy kids in the backseat that he kept his promise. Even though we had to make some compromises we were able to make the race, and still hope to be able to make it a tradition. We'll hope for better weather in year's to come!

Roomie Reunion

2011-11-01T18:28:00.000-06:00

Debi, Karen, Me, and Kim
The Babes of Branbury Park Apartment 7-313.
I love these girls!

When I was a freshman in college I made a life changing decision. It was the end of freshman year in the dorms and everyone was making plans where to live off campus sophomore year. I had a few different options and really struggled on whom I should choose to room with. Originally I chose to live with my freshman roommate Diana and another girl that lived down the hall. However, right before the year came to a close Debi, Kim and Karen (who lived next door to me in the dorms), asked me to be their fourth roomie at Branbury Park. Even though I had already signed a contract at another apartment to live with Diana, I just knew that living with other girls was the right choice.

Twenty five years later I am still so grateful for that decision. We shared an apartment for two years...until Kim and Karen got married. We had some great times together. They are some amazing women!! Even though our paths have seldom crossed these past 25 years, I still count them as some great friends, and am fortunate to have known them and to have had their examples in my life.

Fast Forward 25 years, to a Apartment 7-313 reunion. I picked Karen up at the San Diego airport (she currently lives in Arkansas), and met Debi and Kim at the San Diego temple. It may have been the wrong place for an initial reunion because we were the noisiest people in the chapel trying to catch up after years of seeing each other. After the temple we headed to dinner to chat more. It was the oddest feeling because it was seriously like no time had passed between us, yet we each had "history" that the others knew about.

We spent a long weekend together at the Hotel Del Coronado. We literally talked almost the entire weekend. A few walks on the beach, long lunches and dinners, and chats poolside. It was a fun weekend of "remember when". We all didn't have the same specific memories and it was nice to be reminded of some fun things we did together.

It was a lovely weekend. An added bonus is that during one of our beach walks I ran into another dear friend of mine from college, Alice, who just happened to be in town from Arizona! (Small, small world!!) I only wish I had more time to spend with her as well! I had a great time getting reacquainted with these three women. Have I mentioned how amazing each one of them is?? Everyone needs to know someone like them! I will be forever grateful for that decision made so many years ago. I'm already looking forward to a 30 year reunion!

Karen, Me and Kim
Foggy day beach self portrait.

Hotel Del--seriously like something out of a romance novel!

Karen and I walked on the beach each morning. Why don't I live closer to the ocean?

Debi and Karen-downtown S.D.

Kim and Karen dining on "Extraordinary Desserts". Karen had the nerve to suggest to get one for all of us to share! She was always the smart one in college...instead we EACH got one and shared. We were a bit sick afterwards...but it was all quite delish!

So Here's What You Missed....

2011-10-30T18:20:00.000-06:00

I'm here and I'm ready to start blogging again. So here's what you've missed the past two months in the Murdoch household:

Will turned 12 in August. In addition to starting Jr. High he was ordained a Deacon in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

His proud parents grin eagerly each week as he now passes the Sacrament each Sunday. Have us stare at him with our goofy grins kind of embarrasses him.

Will's 12th birthday

He competed on his school's cross country team. He improved his time by 3 1/2 minutes over the course of the season. He finished in the top ten in the Regional Meet. It's not enough to qualify for State, but he is so proud of his improvement.

Will during the Regional Meet. It was a more of a mud run!

Monster Hill that the runners climbed.

Emma has a recent affinity for all babies. She loves to cart them around, and can't wait until she is of official babysitting age. She's become a little mother's helper when friends call to have her watch the littles while the mom is home trying to get stuff done.

Emma and a little.

She has also re-found her love for gymnastics and is taking gymnastics again. She's getting quite good, but most of all loves spending time with her friend Katie. As long as Katie is in gymnastics with her she'll continue to perform.

Cecret Lake Excursion with friends.

Josh turned 8 in September and was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was very excited for his big day, and had been looking forward to it for a long time.

Josh on his baptism day

Josh roasts a perfectly toasted marshmallow.

Besides getting baptized he was excited for his birthday party at Airbone...the latest "it" place to have a party. Birthday parties make me kind of crazy so I was glad to have it outside of the house.

A few of the wild and sweaty friends at the party.

Caroline also had a birthday. She turned 5 in October. Where did my baby go? She talked about her princess party non-stop for months. Five is such a great age. She basically planned the whole party herself, I was just the coordinator. The princesses first painted nails (with my assistants Emma and Katie's help), then had their make-up done. We played pin the hair on the princess, had a "dance party", and pinata. Everything was topped off with pizza and ice cream. Perfect little girl festivity. I do have so say that Caroline has some wonderful friends. I'm excited to see these little girls grow up together.

Princess Caroline.

Nails and make-up for the princess'

Princess Caroline and her court.

In other news Caroline also learned how to ride a two-wheeler. She had heard that her cousin could do it, and was insistent that the training wheels come off. She was cruising around the neighborhood in no time.

We are now a family of bike riders.

In a nutshell that's what we've been up to. Even though it took me almost two weeks to write this post, hopefully I can get back on the band wagon again. I really do like blogging.

Help I've Fallen and I Can't Get Up

2011-10-02T18:26:00.000-06:00

Fallen off the blogging wagon that is.

I haven't blogged in nearly a month. There is much I want to write about. Matt reminded me of my role of family historian and urged me to get typing.

Between school, playdates, Cub Scouts, Scouts, gymnastics, dance, piano, cross country, and swimming I feel there has nary been a moment.

That coupled with the fact that Matt has been out of town the entire month of September, I haven't been able to catch my breath.

One of these days I'll catch up.

If only I could learn to function on 2 hours of sleep--

Updating the family blog would surely be on the list of things to get done.

Maybe someday soon?

If Running Injuries Bore You Silly, Skip This Post!

2011-09-12T14:08:00.000-06:00

A friend asked me last week if I wanted to run the Halloween Half with her. I told her I was injured, which was the same unfortunate reponse I had for her regarding the Pioneer Day 10K in July. The same reply I sadly gave another friend for the Moonlight Half last month.

"STILL??!!" she asked me increduoulsy.

Yes, I do realize that four going on five months is an awful long time to have a running injury. In fact if I were not actually suffering myself I might have the same question for a friend with an injury that's kept her benched that long.

Afterall, as a runner we sometimes think...a little rest, new shoes, some ibuprofen and all should be well.

At least that's what I used to think!

I have an injury that's fairly invisible to the naked eye...plantar fasciitis. (I know it just sounds like warts, doesn't it?!) It doesn't sound like a real man's/woman's injury like a ripped IT Band, or torn ACL. Not that either of those are to be desired, they just sound much more painful, hence understandable that you're not running.

When I explain that the fascia on the bottom of my foot is pulled so that it feels like ice picks are being driven up through the soles of my feet, I'm just given a confused nod of understanding. But really is quite painful!!

So I've been to an orthopedist, he ruled out a stress fracture. I was in so much pain I would have put money (if I had any) that it was one. Acutally I really wish it was a stress fracture...four weeks in a boot, and I should be running again. He gave me a few stretches to do. I barely have time to go to the bathroom let alone hours to stretch a pinky toe. No help there.

Then I tried a podiatrist. He didn't even really look at my foot, just suggested shoe inserts and cortisone shots. I skipped the inserts (I've been running for years with no pain why inserts now), and went back three times for cortisone shots. The shots helped for exactly a day and then the pain was back.

Third doctor's a charm, right? I'm praying so! Actually this time it is a Physical Therapist. He's using a technique called ASTYM which for description purposes is like having someone rub a large plastic spoon dipped in cocoa butter up and down my calf and foot. Sexy, huh? It's rather quite painful and leaves so many bruises on my leg I look like I've been kicked. Actually a friend asked me the other day if I ever washed my leg because she thought the bruises were just dirt. I've had five treatments, and lots of foot taping. Sometimes I think it might be working, other days I think about all of the fun things I could have purchased with five co-pays!

As of now, it still hurts. I feel like a hypochondriac. Matt pretends to be sympathetic. He's just tired of the whining. He wishes it would just go away as much as I do. I always wondered if there would come a time when, like Forest Gump, I would just stop running. Guess now I know?

Book Club

2011-08-26T11:01:00.000-06:00

We selected our books for this coming year. I was a little disappointed because I've already read half of them. I rarely re-read a book I've already read. However, I'm really looking forward to the others. I have a goal to read 43 books this year. I'm at 33 books with four months left. I'd better get busy! If you know of any I should add....please tell!

September: A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest Gaines

October: People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks

November: Garlic and Sapphires by Ruth Reichl

December: Juliette by Anne Fortier

January: Eve and the Choice Made in Eden by Beverly Campbell

February: Beautiful Boy by David Sheff

March: Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova

April: The Chosen by Chaim Potok

May: Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok

June: The Cleansing of America by Cleon Skousen

There's a 104 days of summer vacation....

2011-08-26T10:50:00.000-06:00

And school comes along just to end it!

After much fun this summer I think everyone was ready to go back...including me! I was running out of things to do to keep everyone entertained. I was beginning to hear one too many episodes of "Phineas and Ferb", or "Wizards of Waverly Place".

All of my kids like school. Even though they may grumble and outwardly protest, they really do enjoy school.

Josh-2nd grade- Most excited for: recess (of course!)

Emma 5th grade Most excited for: Seeing friends she hasn't seen over the summer (our social butterfly!)

Caroline-Pre-K-Most excited for: learning to read (almost there!)

Will 7th grade-Most excited for: Learning Spanish (couldn't decide between Chinese and Spanish)

Emma Help Incorporated

2011-08-23T07:58:00.001-06:00

Frustrated in her ability to earn money this summer Emma created her own company entitled, "Emma Help Incorporated". She's even enlisted the help of her brother, sister to recruit business and pays them a percentage accordingly. Emma Help has been quite useful. On her business card she indicates that she cooks, cleans, sews, (who knew?) and most importantly is a massage therapist. While I do appreciate and will pay for a nicely swept floor, or sparkling kitchen counters I am most thrilled with the massage therapist aspect of the business. She rubs my feet....$1 for 15 minutes. Quite a bargain if you ask me! Anyone can teach a child to scrub the sink, but in my opinion, teach your child to rub your feet....and you have
succeeded as a parent!!

Emma refused to be photographed for this publication, but those are her hands.

Emma's protege learning the fine art of foot massage.

Bear Lake Scout Camp

2011-08-01T14:33:00.002-06:00

There are certain things I will only allow my boys to do at Scout Camp. Some of the list includes:

More than a day or two without showering
Audible burping (especially at the dinner table)
Intentionally passing gas
Wearing the same socks for an entire week
Even sleepovers with friends

Will had his opportunity to do all of the above and more last week at the Bear Lake Scout Camp. He doesn't turn twelve until this week so Matt had to accompany him.

Some highlights of the week:

Mile Swim in Bear Lake-Even though he was one of only two boys that felt qualified to complete this he turned back on his first attempt. He said he felt really sad that he turned back, especially since the other boy kept going and was greeted with whoops, hollers, and cheers. Fortunately he had another opportunity the next day and passed with flying colors. He said the water was so cold that his feet went numb at almost the exact half way mark.

Wilderness Survival Merit Badge-Part of this badge requirements include making a shelter and sleeping overnight. They were being goaded by the older Boy Scouts who told them there was a bear sighting about five miles away, and the area was known for black widow and rattlesnake nests. The other boy he completed this with matter of factly announced that he cried himself to sleep that night. While Will admits he didn't cry he said it was a bit scary. Mission accomplished though!

Riflery Merit Badge-Will has found a new talent. He is an incredible marksman. Who knew? He passed this with flying colors. He hit 40 of his 46 targets. Must be the FBI training of his forefathers?

Archery Merit Badge-Robin Hood he is not. He passed, but just barely. He came home with a large bruise on his forearm from holding the bow.

Relay Racing-There were games on the last day of camp. He helped his team win the relay race.

Dad-I think the fact that his Dad was there for his first Scouting experience made him really happy.

He also came home wearing the same socks he departed in. (I swear I packed a pair for every day he was gone!!) He was filthy dirty; I made him take two showers upon return. I guess that's what scout camp is all about, right? That and seeing who can burp the loudest at the dinner table.

Early morning roll call

Swimming in Bear Lake

Will the marksman

Flag Ceremony

Will the Archer

Scout Troop

Boys posing before night alone in the wilderness

Service Project

So glad Matt got to go with him!

Will and friends

Final relay race

Famous Bear Lake Raspberry Shakes

We Do Hard Things

2011-07-21T09:00:00.001-06:00

Our family slogan is: We Are the Murdoch's and We Do Hard Things.

We remind the kids of this often in their daily lives. Whether it is a difficult homework assignment, a challenging event at the swim meet, going to church when others head to the lake, or even returning too much change to the cashier, WE DO HARD THINGS. We want them to learn it is part of their character make-up. Life isn't easy. They may be faced with some very difficult choices in their lives and because they are a Murdoch they have the power and capability to do more than think they can.

I drove the lesson home again as we hiked the "Y" on the mountain this week.

Not my photo...taken earlier this spring.

The "Y" isn't an especially difficult hike. It is a little over a mile of moderately steep switch backs up the mountain. However, because of the threat of thunderstorms earlier in the morning we left a bit later than we would have liked. At 11:30 in the a.m. the temperature was already 91 degrees. A bit warm for hiking, but because we'd already made the 40 minute drive to the "Y" we made the hike anyway.

We didn't even arrive at the second switchback before there were pleas of turning back. The weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth started at the third switchback. I tried every distraction technique I could think of. We looked for lizards, I sang songs, I encouraged, pulled out drinks and snacks. The tears continued. (It was only the two littlest that openly complained. Emma silently cursed, while Will practically ran up the mountain ahead of us.)

I reminded them of how disappointing it would be if anyone ever asked them if they hiked "Y" mountain and they could respond, "Only half way, I didn't have the guts to make it all the way to the top." I also told them they would be so thrilled as they saw the Y from the freeway and remembered the time they climbed all the way to the top. For the record, those kind of motivational speeches fall on deaf four year old ears. Caroline didn't care. She was just really hot, and really tired, and wanted to turn back at every step. At one point I felt I was literally dragging Caroline and Josh behind me.

Josh perked up when at almost an hour of hiking a man told us there were only three switchbacks left. Josh had a definite end now. He counted down each switch back. I don't know who was more joyful to see the giant, white letter, the kids or myself.

We made it! As we sat at the top and looked down at the beauty of the valley below I gave another speech. Again, one that reminded them of how they have it in them to do something really hard, and something that they think they couldn't do. I prattled on my soapbox for a few minutes while their eyes glazed over. I wanted a picture of each at the top....then my camera died! One thing is for sure...they will always remember they day they first hiked the "Y"!

Look at the joy on that kid's face!!!

Look how far we've come!

The kid who was too tired to move another step climbed all over the Y!

Contemplating life at the top!

P.S. The funniest moment for me happened after we had hiked down. I hadn't thought through my hiking attire before we started. I was wearing and old acid washed T-shirt....think gray T-shirt. After we finished in the 90 something degree temps, I had pit stains under my arms, a large sweat stain in front from carrying Caroline down the mountain, and then another large sweat stain in back from the leather seat in the car. REALLY GROSS and unattractive!! However, the kids were starving so we went to the BYU Creamery for lunch. As we walked in I told Will that I was so embarrassed because of my sweaty appearance and pit stains of all things. To which he looked at me and said, "You think you're embarrassed?? You're my Mom!!" I laughed so hard!

Oh What Do You Do In The Summertime?

2011-07-14T08:52:00.001-06:00

A day at "This is the Place" Statepark. Our friends the Clayton's are volunteering there this summer. We had a great time hanging out with them. My kids want to volunteer there next year.

A shave at "This Is the Place"

A day on our friends' boat. We haven't taken ours out yet this year. Rainy and busy!!

Swim Team five nights a week. Swim Meet one night a week. Will, Emma and Josh love it. (Saves me from having to swim myself everyday!) :)

Hill Air Force Base Museum--lots of planes. No hands on exhibits. This was our second kind of boring field trip---after Camp Floyd in the lightning storm.

Matt was beyond thrilled to attend Howard Jones at the Sandy Amphitheater, and even purchased tickets from a scalper for the sold out show.

There's an app for that?

2011-07-09T11:17:00.001-06:00

I love this photo that Caroline added to the "Design a Princess" app.

Park City Mountain Race

2011-07-09T11:15:00.000-06:00

Lest you think that we get up at the crack o'dawn on the 4th of July to run the Park City Mountain Race for our health....the photo below details the ONLY reason the kids get up to run!

All about the Gatorade and the Krispy Kremes!

A Moment in Time

2011-06-30T21:44:00.002-06:00

On Monday evening I took the kids to a concert (Peter Breinholt...kind of like the local version of James Taylor) in the park. Most of my kids ran around the rotunda with friends collecting honeysuckle. Josh, who had a minor scooter accident earlier in the day, snuggled on my lap. Periodically the children would return to the home blanket to dance upon the grassy stage. As I sat there listening to the mellow music I couldn't help but feeling that I just love the place I live, and I love the freedom of summertime. It was perfect in every way-- except for the fact that Matt was out of town. It was a lovely way to spend a summer evening.

K. and Emma--have I mentioned Emma doesn't like having her pic taken?

Dancing girls

Josh snuggling with me.

Josh taking pics of me...can you tell how excited I am...and the fact the I could use a little Botox?

The girls in the rotunda scoping out the honeysuckle.

Ashley and Bentley

2011-06-28T14:42:00.000-06:00

I'm kind of embarrassed to admit this....make that really embarrassed...but I know what and who a Bentley is. If you think I'm referring to an English make of automobile, you might want to skip this post.

It all started innocently enough. Matt was out of town one too many Mondays. I needed a little down time after the kids went to bed. I watched "The Bachelorette", and dot, dot, dot there was no escaping the all encompassing drama that is Bentley this season. I even started DVRing the episodes.....GASP!!!!

The scandal started early enough when Bentley informed the cameras that he was hoping the Bachelorette was another girl besides Ashley. (I had to google the fact that his dream date, Emily, was a contestant from another season). I couldn't figure out why he stayed. They he started making disparaging comments about Ashley to the camera, and then puppy dog eyes to her face. Just like a train wreck, I couldn't look away. I was hooked.

While I don't especially like Ashley at all...could she stop combing her bangs out with her fingers for one minute??....I couldn't believe she didn't see through Bentley's charade. She become even more and more enthralled with him. I felt sorry for her, and I continued to watch. I don't think the producers could have scripted the reality show any better. He continued to make snide remarks such as, "I'd rather swim in my own pee than plan a wedding with her." And, "I hope my hair looks good while I break her heart." Then he'd turn around and make out with her. All the while she said that she was "falling deeply for him." Oh, the drama.

Fast forward a few weeks...Bentley is gone. Lies were told, tears were shed, Bentley returns, lots of ambiguity on his part, Ashely wisens up (finally!), bachelors get hurt and leave on their own, in other words lots of dramatic television!

Like Ashley or feel sorry for her-- cheer Bentley on or despise him, one thing is for sure, the story sure made for some good TV. Afterall, it got this forty-something year old mom of four to put down her book and tune in for a few weeks. And if you care at all, my money is on J.P.

Legs, Breasts, and Wings---Ragnar Time Again!!

2011-06-26T17:03:00.002-06:00

I ran the Ragnar-Wasatch Back again last weekend. It was the fourth year in a row. I do believe it will be the last...at least for a year or so. I'm not good at staying up all night. It takes me days to recover from the lack of sleep. Even though I was injured this year and took the easiest leg, it's such a difficult and yet fun adventure. It sure is an experience, one in which I'm so happy to have had! If anything it's great to spend the weekend in a van with five amazing women (this year six). We laugh, chat, cheer each other on, and basically have a good ole' time!

Lindsay, Debra, Sheri, Anne, Me, and Cynthia
Pre-Start-Logan

Here are the highlights...and some lowlights....of this year's race.

JaNae and Sheri

1. Good friend JaNae was injured this year. However, she came as the chauffeur and support crew. We were thrilled to have her along!!

2. Cynthia graciously stepped in at the last minute. She had some hard legs. One of which being the long, hot, downhill run from Snowbasin. She even ran in a a bit of snow outside of Snowbasin. Yes, snow in June!!

Cynthia our first runner leading the way.

3. Anne is such a strong runner. She is positive and cheers every one along the way. She had a rough third leg...tossed her cookies along the way...but we were all amazed that even though she felt sick she kept cruising up the Jordanelle hill. She was wearing the wings, and the women and the water stop were amazed that "the butterfly" floated all the way to the top!

Anne being silly

Anne just before Jordanelle climb

4. Linsday was so nervous about her 7.4 mile climb up Avon Pass. She did so well. We all commented on what great form she had. Even though it was hot and dusty she kept plugging along. When she finished she said it wasn't as bas as she had made it out in her head to be. That's always a plus!

Lindsay a bit nervous to run up Avon Pass.

Lindsay rocks Avon

5. Debra said she felt unprepared this year. You wouldn't know it though. She ran her legs with such ease! We were also once again so thrilled that she let us borrow her Dad's extendo van!

Debra's water stop.

Anne handing of to Debra

6. Sheri had very difficult legs. The first was downhill from Avon Pass. The second was uphill to East Canyon. She ran the East Canyon leg close to midnight. It was much colder than we thought it would be. She wasn't prepared for the temperature, but I think she really enjoyed this leg. Knowing that it might take us a long time to get to the exchange we drove ahead and didn't see much of her. On her last leg we passed a McD and "rewarded" her with an ice cold Diet Coke at the exchange. It was hot!!

Sheri earned a sombrero from Cafe Rio during her first leg.

Sheri anticipating her downhill run.

7. I loved my first leg. Even though it felt a bit warm it was such a beautiful run through nearby streams and cow pastures. So pastoral! I even loved the big hill. I kept reminding myself that I loved hills....mind over matter...and it worked. It was almost 7 miles, and it flew by!

8. My second leg, even though it was the shortest and easiest Ragnar leg I have EVER run...only 3 totally flat miles, it was absolutely the most difficult. Long story short, I've been injured the past month and haven't been running. Been to the Dr., with no definite diagnosis. Anyway, on this particular leg I could have sworn my foot was broken! With each step I cried in agony in my head. I was too proud to walk though. There were even tears at one point. It was so hard. I wasn't sure I could complete my final leg in the morning just a few hours later.

9. When I heard my last leg was going to be 3.6 miles instead of the 3.0 mile I had hoped, I thought I might cry again. Interestingly enough though it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I had kept my shoe on from the night prior (yes, even napped with it on), to keep the swelling down. I even passed quite a few runners in the last 1.5 miles.

Just before my night run...it doesn't look like night, but we had to wear reflective gear from 7:30 on.

10. After we were finished with all three of our legs we went and showered, and waited at the finish line for Van #2. It took a long time for them to cross this year. Must have been the snow on Guardsman Pass?

Debra, Anne and Me hanging at the finish

Entire Legs, Breasts and Wings team.

Summer Bowling

2011-06-25T17:23:00.000-06:00

Emma putting a spin on the ball.

Will hopes to take down the remaining pins. The ball doesn't even look like it's moving!

We go to the pool almost daily. We've been on several field trips including the zoo, Thanksgiving Point gardens, the Children's Museum and the park. So sometimes it still makes me crazy when the kids announce that they are bored. My response last summer and this summer is, "Let's go bowling!"

On a hot summer day when it's too hot to play outside, we feel like we've been growing gills because we've spent so much time at the pool, and we don't really feel like going out for an activity that cost lots of $$.... we go bowling. Kids bowl two games a day for free during the summer. We do have to pay for shoe rental, but it's minimal. We can drag just one game of bowling out to a little more than an hour....even longer when we go with friends. The kids are out of the house, it's air conditioned, slightly moderate exercise, and they play groovy music at the bowling alley. (I love watching Caroline do her bowling dance with the ball.) It's been a win for all of us. It's been a perfect way to spend time together on a hot summer afternoon! Check out kidsbowlfree.com. Maybe we'll see you there!

One More Reason to Love Blue Bunny

2011-06-08T18:41:00.001-06:00

As far as ice cream is concerned, I think there is not a better brand around than Blue Bunny. Our favorite is Cherry Chocolate Chip, but we also love Cookie Dough and Turtle Sundae as well. Heck, we wouldn't turn our noses up at any of their flavors. But today I learned there is one more reason to love Blue Bunny.

Our dear friend works for Blue Bunny in Iowa. (Talk about my dream job. Have I mentioned my affection for ANY ice cream?) Over Memorial Day weekend while on vacation in Minneapolis with his family he received word that the Missouri River was overflowing its banks, and his home, within a half mile of the river, was in danger. Upon arriving home he and his family learned that the entire neighborhood was being evacuated, and that they had maybe a day or two to get EVERYTHING out and leave.

What if you were told you had to pack up your life in twenty four hours or so and depart? Could you do it? If you are like me you probably think, maybe. Maybe with the help of family and friends. But what if you lived thousands of miles away from family, and if your friends and neighbors were in the EXACT SAME SITUATION. What if the entire town was being evacuated and there was nowhere to store your belongings? There are no storage units to be found, and definitely no boxes for sale at WalMart, Target, Home Depot or Lowes.

So as my friends stood scared, worrying, and praying about their next move, a Blue Bunny semi pulled up to their house along with seven Blue Bunny V.P.'s to help them pack up their life. Not only did they move furniture out, they had to dismantle their finished basement and get everything out....doors, carpet, fixtures. Blue Bunny gave my friend a week paid off of work, and put his family up in a hotel for a week while they did what they could to save their home. Even though there were no news crews around, I'm fairly certain that Blue Bunny performed this act of service for many of their employees.

Here it is a week and a half later, and my friends will be evacuated from their home until probably mid/end of July. The water will be a serious concern until then. It depends on how well the levees hold. They are still worried. They still pray about saving their home. But isn't it great to know that a large company like Blue Bunny has got their back (and their furniture)? You might think it expected, but I think in this day and age companies that go the extra mile like that for their employees are few and far between. In my opinion, it is just one more excuse to buy BLUE BUNNY!!

Last Day of School

2011-06-04T20:55:00.001-06:00

I thought it fitting to take a picture on the last day of school just as we take a first day of school picture. You know kind of a "See How We've Grown" history.

First day-August 2010

LAST DAY-June 3, 2011

Emma poses in front of Josh's face...he's mad.

Josh wacks her back.

Emma screams with pain. Josh goes back in the house.

WELCOME SUMMER VACATION!!!!

It may be a long one around these parts!

Ogden Marathon

2011-05-25T14:29:00.000-06:00

Kelli, Me, Lisa and Tana-Waiting at the Start

Kelli, Me, and Lisa-Just before the gun

I love to run marathons. I hate to run marathons. There is no way I can run 26.2 miles! I actually can run 26.2 miles. It's really easy. It's the hardest thing I've ever done in my life. I'm looking forward to my next marathon. There is no way I'll ever run another again!

I'm actually not sure how I feel about any of these statements. For a few seconds, all of them are true.

I ran the Ogden Marathon (my third) with Lisa last Saturday. Is it permissible to say, "I had a fantastic time. It was really, really hard," in the same sentence? The fact that we even made it to the starting line feels like such an accomplishment in its own right. Lisa had never run more than 16 miles outside and flat out missed the 20 miler. I am struggling with a horrible case of plantar fasciitis. Dear JaNae didn't even make it to the start line with what is now determined to be a pelvic stress fracture. I taped my arch and hoped for the best.

After a week of literal non-stop rain, the clouds parted at 7 a.m. on Saturday and revealed mountain capped peaks and green hills rolling down to a swollen river. The course was beautiful. We ran along side the Ogden River which had overflowed its banks in some parts. It was such a pastoral setting. The first thirteen miles flew by. We'd heard the biggest mistake people make in this marathon is that they start off too fast on the early downhills. We paced ourselves and saved something for the hills after mile thirteen. We followed the 4:30 pace group out of the half marathon point.

For awhile we felt great. We ran up the big hill at 15.5 and chatted with the pace leader all the while. Then ever so slowly the pace group left our station. We ran a bit behind. We could still see them. Then the red and white balloons became farther and farther away, and drifted over the horizon. There was a steady climb until mile 18. We became slower and slower. I had a feeling of, "If I can just run a bit slower for a moment to catch my breath, then I'll catch up to them." Neither of us had much energy to push the pace. We soldiered on.

I can honestly say I felt really good until about mile 20. It was difficult, but doable. It was downhill for a bit after we crossed the top of the dam. However, even though there was only six miles to the finish, mentally it felt like another 20. My stomach started to hurt. I threw up in my mouth at 21.5. (Gross, but true). We walked through water stops until 24. Lisa kept talking to me. I don't know that I had really hit any kind of wall, but I just couldn't respond to her. I was just too tired to talk. I felt like couldn't put a coherent thought together. My plan was to, in the last difficult miles, to think about all the people that would like to run but can't. But I couldn't think of anything! My mind was a blank slate.

At this point the race was mile by mile. We just wanted to finish! We ran through the 25 mile water stop. A few minutes later someone yelled that this was the last corner we'd turn to the finish. We could see the finish line WAY OFF in the distance. Then someone yelled, "ONLY FIVE BLOCKS TO THE FINISH!" I don't know who designed those city blocks, but it obviously wasn't a marathoner. We ran stop light to stop light. I kept feeling like I was sprinting, but looked at my watch and it was only a 10:45 or so mile....not fast!

I would have stopped to walk. Even in the last five blocks. Even with the finish line in sight. But Lisa kept me going. She kept shouting, "We're almost there! Keep running!" And we did. Four hours, forty -four minutes and twenty three seconds, and 26.2 miles (actually 26.44 according to my watch!) we crossed the finish line. Elated!! Exhausted!!

We wandered through the finishers area in a daze. The comic moment for both of us was trying to cross the street in traffic to get back to the car, we walked like little old women. And we couldn't stop laughing as we hoisted our legs into her Jeep. We barely cleared the running board.

It was so fun. I love running with friends, especially Lisa. I can't believe that I can actually train my body to run that distance and live to tell about it. I'm sure there will be another in my future...just not any time soon!

26.2 Miles and 4:43:23 later!

We are done!!!!

Annual Summer Panic

2011-05-24T14:51:00.000-06:00

It seems everyone I talk to is gushing about how excited they are for school to be over. They can't wait for freedom, carefree days, no where to be, nothing to do. I don't know what kind of self entertaining, productive, non squabbling, non-TV watching kids they have, but certainly not mine. Let me talk to those mothers in August. They may be singing a different tune about then.

One one hand I really do love summer vacation. It is nice to have no schedule. I love not having to set an alarm. But then again part of the issue for me is that there is no schedule. I am the scheduler, organizer, entertainment committee... ALL SUMMER LONG. So when my kids ask if they can hang out at Classic Skate (or some other such awful place), I have no excuse. Because really we have no where else we need to be.

Summers are way different now from when I was growing up. I am of the generation that said goodbye to their mom in the morning, came home again for lunch, and then was called in to dinner. I'm pretty sure my friends and I entertained ourselves for most of the summer. We produced plays, played in the creek next to our house, and I even walked up to 7-11 a couple of times and crossed a very busy street when I was forbidden to do so. I actually remember, at the age of 9 or so, my mom dropping me and my 7 year old sister at the movie theater to watch summer movies ALONE! Can you even imagine such a thing today?

I'm accused of being the entertainment committee for my children. It's true. We go, go, go all summer long. We do have a lot of fun together, but it really is quite exhausting. My kids arise early (6:30), and don't crash until late (11:00ish) on summer evenings. There is no down time. And it is truly unfortunate that unless they have something specific to do my kids will gravitate to TV or computer. I'm not looking forward to having to harp on them to turn off what ever electronic device they are recently drawn to.

So I'm making a list, checking it twice, and going to make sure that we stay busy this summer. Ready or not here it comes!!!

Preschool Program

2011-05-18T15:03:00.000-06:00

What's not to love about a Dinosaur Preschool Program?

The "Carolineadactyl" was the star of our show!

Apron Strings

2011-05-13T20:08:00.000-06:00

Will is gone tonight. He's on a Scout Campout. Without his father.

This is the first campout of many to come where he will be without an adult member of the family.

Matt is out of town.

I asked Will if he would let me accompany him. He rolled his eyes and snorted in my face.

I don't think he quite understands.

He is my oldest.

There is still snow in the mountains where he'll be camping. The rivers are running high. It will be cold. He is tenting with just another young 11 year old boy. I know how foolish they can be.

What is the scout program thinking sending boys away overnight from their moms at such a young age?

Could it be that they know what's best for 11 year old boys... and their moms?

Baby Steps.

This summer it will be an entire week away at camp.

I just felt some threads tear from my apron strings.

I don't know whether to smile or cry.

Can Matt Walk on Water?

2011-05-11T11:41:00.000-06:00

On our second day Matt decided to see if he could actually walk on water. Turns out he can't. Just got a nasty slice on some coral. In his defense he was boogie boarding and kept scraping his knees on the coral. Rather than paddle back in he decided to stand up and walk on the coral. I like to tease him about this fact that he thought he could actually walk upon the coral.

It was quite a gash that fortunately didn't require stitches, and fortunately didn't attract the attention of any sharks. It bled quite for a long time.

Later that evening his foot started to swell a bit. Based on his past medical history we decided not to mess around so we called a professional...the condo security guard. Apparently when he is not chasing kids off elevators when they press one too many buttons, he likes to pretend he is a doctor. He made a house call to examine the foot. He spent quite a long time studying the wound, and then declared Matt should soak the foot in vinegar, as that is what all the local surfers do when they get scraped by coral. He should soak it all night if possible.

Matt didn't care that much about his foot so he only soaked it for a few hours before bed. But it worked! Although still painful, the swelling went down, he was able to use the the rest of vacation, and didn't go home an amputee. Vinegar the wonder drug!

Olivine Pools

2011-05-09T20:22:00.000-06:00

On our second full day on Maui we decided we were up for an adventure. We drove north past Kapalua, past the blow hole, past civilization to the Olivine Pools. We'd read in the guide book that there were great shimmering blue tide pools there. After many a "are we there yet" from the peanut gallery we arrived. (In actuality we were only in the car for like 30 minutes or so!)

Unfortunately, we didn't take a picture of our starting point. What started as a simple hike became a sheer cliff descent in our flip flops. More than once Matt and I looked at each other and our eyes spoke the words, "What in the heck are we doing, and why are we dragging our children along to do it??" There was many a whine and complaint as we struggled to get down to the pools. It took quite awhile to gingerly make our way down the face of the lava field. I kept reminding the kids that sometimes things that are really worth doing in life are difficult.

Once there we spent over two hours exploring the tide pools. We found sea urchins, sea cucumbers, sea slugs, crabs, and even a moray eel. The kids tried to net some fish--no luck. We had a fun time exploring (even though Emma reminds me the rocks were hot and pointy), until it was time to hike back up the cliff. There was then more weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth. I think a "time out" or two may have even been involved on the ascent. Said "time out" child shall remain nameless. However, the Olivine Pools will be an adventure we won't forget!

Partial look down the cliff to the ocean below

Emma on the "hot and pointy" lava rocks.

The Hunt

Crab Hole

Moray eel-it started to squirt blood in our bucket. Eewww!

Josh examining his catch.

Josh-Sea Slug Hunter

Beautiful scenery at the pools!

Sea Urchin-Are they poisonous?

A husband with lots of SkyMiles is good for something!

2011-04-29T15:38:00.003-06:00

Maui-2011--Emma originally wrote 2010 and had to draw over it. :)

Once again we cashed in miles (a traveling husband is good for something--enough miles for all six with more to spare!), and jetted to Maui for Spring Break. We found a great condo at Honua Kai to call home for a week. A week with nothing but beach, pool, hikes, and sunshine was good for our souls. Our daily schedule was something like this:

6:00 a.m.-Wake Up to the Hawaiian Sunrise. Yes...6 is early for vacation, but it's Hawaii. There is a four hour time difference. It's hard to sleep in!

7:00 a.m.-Breakfast

8:00 a.m.-12 p.m.-Beach Time. Waves, Snorkeling, Sandcastles.

Caroline--just so happy to be here!

12-2 p.m.- Lunch

2-6 p.m.-Pool. Waterslides, Lazy River, Lounge Chairs

First snow cones of the season!

6-Bedtime-Dinner back at the Condo and maybe a movie...if we could keep our eyes open past 8:30...still never really got over the time difference.

Josh

We threw in an occasional hike, road trip to another part of the island, or adventure, but this was pretty much our daily schedule. My idea of a fantastic family vacation!

Easter Peep Bouquet

2011-04-19T12:15:00.000-06:00

My friend Jen had this idea, and I thought it was easy and brilliant! An Easter Peep Bouquet! The idea is to skewer different color peeps and present them in a vase like a bouquet. This is how mine turned out. I didn't do it as well as she did, but you get the idea. I used too many and should have cut some of the skewers just slightly to vary the length. But what a great idea for Easter Decor! Thanks, Jen!

Happy Birthday, Emma!

2011-04-10T11:28:00.000-06:00

Seems I missed posting about Emma's birthday. Good thing blogger can back date posts!!

10 Things About 10 Year Old Emma

1. Her favorite color is green!!

2. She is a great sister. She takes such good care of Caroline!

3. She loves to play games. Everything must be a game to her...doing chores, homework, reading. If it's some sort of competition she will compete!

4. She is a straight A student.

5. She is a beautiful girl, but for some reason hates to have her picture taken. As a result we have lots of pictures of her with some sort of goofy grimace on her face.

6. She is the neighborhood "Pied Piper". Kids of all ages flock to her to play. Last week one of Caroline's friends was over and kept asking, "When will Emma be home?"

7. She loves to play soccer and be on the swim team.

8. She has a calendar that for 3 years she has marked off every night before she goes to bed.

9. She is a gentle spirit.

10. She loves to play with her best friends, Katie and Sadie, more than anything.

Open Your Mouth

2011-04-03T17:07:00.007-06:00

Yesterday while at Chick Fil-A with the fam I heard these snippets of conversation from several Mary Kay women who looked like they were in town for a convention of sorts.

Woman A: What is the predominant religion around here?
Woman B: The LDS church
Woman A: Are there any Catholic churches here?
Woman B: Yeah, but really hard to find.
Woman A: Are LDS Christians?
Woman C: Actually, they're not...she relays in a hushed tone.

Then she proceeds to whisper to the women across the table. I heard no more.

I was dismayed as I walked back to my table. It was evident to me that all of the women at the table were going to leave that day having been misled by a woman with absolutely no knowledge of what she pretended to know. Yet I didn't really feel like it was my place to correct them. Afterall, I was eavesdropping on someone else's conversation. However, I kept thinking about the fact that they would return to where ever it is that they came from and more than likely pass on that misinformation.

I wanted to tell the ladies of Mary Kay and Chick Fil A that LDS was short for, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Jesus Christ is at the very center of our religion. We are Christians. We believe that is is through the atonement of Jesus Christ that we will be saved. Of course, I know that by stating these very facts they would have more questions. Probably questions based on more misinformation that they have carried around with them and shared with others their entire lives.

Then this morning I listened to this talk by President Uchtdorf during the General Conference of the LDS church. He encouraged us as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to look for opportunties to share the message of the restored gospel with others, and to share his/her testimony of Jesus Christ. He said, "Sometimes a single phrase of testimony can set events in motion that affects someone else's life for eternity."

Religion is often a sensitive topic. And can be even more so if one interrupts a private conversation in a fast food restaurant. But I can only hope that I have another opportunity to share the message of Jesus Christ and possibly affect someone's eternity with my boldness.

Princess Caroline

2011-03-31T15:07:00.000-06:00

I looked back in the car and noticed she had her "Princess earrings " on.

Anyone that knows Caroline, knows that she is all about being a GIRL! My four year old asks on a regular basis:

Q: When can I get my ears pierced? A: When you are twelve.
Q: My nails have only been painted once today. When can we do it again? A: Once per day.
Q: Can I wear a dress to preschool every single day? A: Of course.
Q: My Hello Kitty lipgloss is clear. When can I get RED lipgloss? A: Maybe when you are twelve.
Q: I've decided exactly how I would like my hair today. Can you follow these instructions I give you? A: Probably not...I'm all thumbs. But I'll certainly try.

So it is with that background information that I share the following anecdote:

When I picked Caroline up from preschool today I was wearing sunglasses. I wore them into the house and then took them off. She looked at me and GASPED!! She had a look of utter disgust and humiliation on her face.

"What's wrong," I ask?
She can barely form the words to say, "You, You, You.....FORGOT to put on your eye makeup today!!"
"I must have been in a hurry," I tell her.

She continued to give me wary side long glances until I finally agreed to go upstairs to apply the necessary creams and ointments to my unadorned eyes.

What a tragedy in her four year old life! I'm beginning to become a little worried about what just what kind of girl I'm in for in the years to come!

P.S. I've also decided that those little "Pageant Girls" you see....they aren't made. They're born!!!!

Run and Hike Canyonlands 2011

2011-03-22T20:57:00.001-06:00

The family indulged me by traveling to Moab so that I could run the Canyonlands Half Marathon. This was my second year. The course is so beautiful along the Colorado River! I wish I could take pics the entire way. I met up with Anne, Lisa, JaNae and Sheri at the start line. It wasn't nearly as cold at the start as it was last year....twenty degrees warmer they said. What a relief...cuz it sure was frigid last year!!

I had a pretty good race. I ran with Lisa and Anne until about 6.5, then Lisa took off. There was a hill at around 9, and Anne does hills so much better than I do, and she took off. I was really enjoying the run...until almost exactly 11.5. Then both my stomach and my achilles tendon started to hurt at the exact same time. I had to stop and walk a minute or two at 11.5 and about 12.5. I was really hurting!! I wondered if I would have to walk across the finish. However, there is something about walking across the finish line that I just can't do, so I picked it up and ran across. My final time was 2:16:39...about a 10:24 mile. Pretty average for me. Yep...I'm slow.

I had such a fun time though. I really love being at the race with friends!!

Canyonlands Start Line

Me and Anne waiting for the race to begin--20 degrees warmer than last year. Phew!!

Sheri, Lisa, Me, Anne and JaNae-Race Start Actually quite cold and windy!!

Lisa and Me

High Fiving the Fam at the Finish Line

Anne, Me, Lisa, Sheri, JaNae-Finish Line!!

No trip to Moab is complete without a stop at the Rock Shop. The kids brought their allowance and we spent a great deal of time after the race shopping for rocks and other souvenirs.
Sunday morning we got up and went into Arches National Park. It was pretty cold and windy. We weren't prepared for the weather, and really didn't stay long.

We walked around Balanced Rock, hiked the Windows area, and went over to the Sand Dunes. The kids sure had fun with our neighbors and are looking forward to Mom's next race in an exotic locale!!

Caroline Performing

Eldredges and Murdoch Kids-Corona Arch

I love that Will is helping Caroline.

Josh

Windows in Arches National Park

Josh's stunt shot. Don't worry Grandma...it's just a trick of the camera.

Caroline

Emma charging down the Sand Dunes

Sand Dunes

Murdoch Kids at Balanced Rock

Emma and Megan

Josh-Sand Dunes

Will and Jake

Taste This Milk....It's Sour

2011-03-20T18:53:00.000-06:00

I found this cup of chocolate milk upon opening the fridge Friday and it made me really laugh.

Will wrote: I think this milk expired. Please test and check your response in tallys.

Apparently Dad thinks it's expired too. I wonder if he tasted it. Yuck!!

Josh the Skier Stunt Boy

2011-03-17T19:15:00.000-06:00

Since our ski days are numbered the rest of this season, I took Josh up on Saturday. I have to say that my most favorite days this winter are when I was able to ski with the kids. Especially one on one. Josh and I had a great time. We took the clip off of his skis, and perfected his stunts. He skied through my legs, up and through the half pipe, and even on a daring blue run. I can't wait for next year to ski more with them!

Josh ready for the day in his stunt helmet.

Two runs in it started to snow pretty hard so he needed a hot chocolate break.

I wasn't sure if I should start drawing a chalk outline around his body. FYI...he was faking it.

A treat at the end of the day.

Brace Face

2011-03-17T19:01:00.000-06:00

Just when I thought the savings account was looking more plentiful, the orthodontist decided that we needed to use some of it to line his pockets. Even though Will's teeth are fairly straight he did have a "slight bite alignment issue". (That's ortho speak for yes, his teeth are straight, but I want to put braces on your kid anyway.) Without further delay Will's teeth have been adorned with some new bling. After biting off three of the braces and swallowing one (OUCH!) in the first day, he is now sporting his new hardware with nary a complaint.

I think they are trying to extricate and alien from Will's mouth.

Our summer vacation in Will's mouth.

Damn Soles in Distress

2011-03-17T18:53:00.000-06:00

After a month long hiatus...I guess I should post again....

JaNae, Me, Lindsay, Lisa and Anne-Gunlock Start

So what do five housewives from Draper do towards the end of a long and dreary winter? Why, drive south to run the Lake to Lake Relay, of course! We were desperate to get away for a weekend. The fact that there happened to be a race in St. George provided the perfect alibi.

This year JaNae, Lisa, Anne, Lindsay and I ran the 50 mile relay from Gunlock Reservoir to Sand Hollow. Our team name: Damn Soles in Distress. After a chilly start it warmed up to a balmy 68 degrees. A veritable heat wave compared to our neck of the woods. We had a great time chatting, laughing, and supporting each other as we each ran 2 legs of about 5-6 miles each towards our goal.

Lindsay-1st runner at the COLD Start!

Decorating the Car

I loved my first leg! I ran through black rock lava fields while I admired the snow capped mountains and red rock hills in the distance. The scenery was spectacular. I ran almost a minute and a half faster per mile than I usually do. My second leg was also pretty good albeit hilly. However, I wasn't used to running in the "heat" so it was more of a challenge. There was a pretty serious hill towards the end as well. I ran about 3/4 of the way up the hill, but it was so steep I had to stop and walk for a minute.

Leprechaun Lisa

Anne and Janae-Pink Tutus and T's.

Lindsay running the Red Rock

Lindsay, Me and JaNae

JaNae-Speed Demon

JaNae barely stops long enough for water

Lindsay and JaNae-

Anne at the Pit Stop

Lisa

Me and Lisa

FINISH LINE!!

My only complaint is that we only stayed one night. After a post race dinner (my fav-Texas Roadhouse) we traveled home. I could have stayed another couple of days post run...at least! I could have used a book and some pool time for the effort!

Art Express

2011-02-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

Josh won, not one, but two awards for this year's Art Express (like Reflections) contest at school. He placed in the Visual Arts and Literature categories for his watercolor and poem. We had planned to go over to the school just to look at all of the entries never guessing that he'd won. We ended up staying for the awards ceremony too. Way to go Josh! His entries get moved to the district competition on March 15.

12 on the 12th

2011-02-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

1. I woke early to find Josh already up and playing on his DSI.

2. Cinnamon Rolls that Caroline and I made yesterday for breakfast.

3. Matt brought roses for Valentine's Day.

4. Ski day-Sadie and Emma mapping their runs.

5. Sadie and Emma telling silly jokes on the chairlift.

6. It was a BEAUTIFUL ski day!! Doesn't get any better. Mid-30s and sunny!

7. Pic of the half pipe that Sadie wanted to go through. She skiied across the top while I skiied down the middle. I'm pretty sure I did an unintentional triple gaynor flip before I crashed. But for a moment I was the coolest mom in the terrain park.

8. It was so sunny we had a hard time keeping our eyes open for the picture.

9. Came home to prepare my YW lesson for tomorrow.

10. Emma had been begging to make rootbeer cupcakes from her new cookbook.

11. Matt started the download for Lord of the Rings three hours prior. At 8 o'clock it had only downloaded 30 minutes. No movie for us.

12. Matt fell asleep early while I watched "Glee" on the laptop, then read my book.

What Do I Want to be When I Grow Up?

2011-02-09T15:13:00.000-07:00

A couple of years ago a friend told me that she would never wanted to be a "scrapbooking/blogging" mom. She defended herself by saying that she felt she had more to offer the world than that. When she first told me that I wasn't quite sure how to read her comment. Should I be offended? After all even though I don't scrapbook, it's obvious that I do blog with regularity. Should I be worried? Do I need to do something more than carpool, laundry and blog to be valued member of society? How will I define myself as I get older? While I certainly don't sit around eating bon bons while I watch soaps, my only economic contributions are spending rather than earning.

Since that time I've thought often about what I want to be when I grow up. What will I do when my kids are all in school? It's different thinking about it now than twenty years ago pre-marriage and pre-kids. Before the kids came along I defined myself as a 5th grade teacher, and as the top travel agent at the most profitable agency in Utah. I really enjoyed it.

For the past almost twelve years I've defined myself as a Mom. Chauffeur. Laundress. Referee. School Volunteer. Homemaker. And I've really enjoyed that. I know that many of those things won't change as my kids grow, but as my youngest enters school full time I'll certainly have more time on my hands.

So what do I want to be when I grow up? I want to do something I'm passionate about. I have a friend that is starting her own jewelry company. It promises to be fabulous. I have another that organizes scrapbook shows. (Scrapbooking is her thing!) One friend manages the accounting for her husband's business. I have another that sells skin care products. Wedding flowers keep one friend busy. And yet another that is a personal assistant to a fairly influential out of state business person. These are all things that they are passionate about. All things that they love doing, and things that keep them busy when they aren't a full time Mom.

Which brings me to my next worry. What ever I decide to do I never want that to take me away from my first love of being a Mom. Strangely enough I would trade the opportunity to make big bucks, for driving a carpool or staying home to bake cookies any day of the week! I don't want to have to give any of that up. Kind of crazy, I realize that.

I do still have a few years before my youngest is in school full time. I'll keep contemplating what I want to be when I grow up. I'll keep trying to find my passion. And in the meantime I'll still bake cookies and blog. Is that so terrible?

Irony?

2011-02-05T06:43:00.000-07:00

Will received this invitation this week.

Which also happens to be at the exact same time as this:

I must also mention that Will is a fan of this team.

I wonder if someone was trying to make a point.

These boys will have to choose early in life what type of men they will be.

The Entertainment Committee

2011-01-26T15:59:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that Dad is the favorite parent in our family. He's the fun one. The family entertainment. The lego builder, the video game player, the Sacrament Meeting artist extraordinaire, the ski buddy, the hiker the list could go on and on. It seems like he's always finding some new and exciting activity to keep everyone happy.

I'm the practical one. I'm all about business. Make your bed, brush your teeth, do your homework, practice the piano, clear the table, blah, blah, blah, blah.

The entertainment committee has been out of town for the past week. I've tried to make a concerted effort to be the fun one. We've been on walks, we've had a Band Hero competition, gone swimming, played games...this in addition to all of the practical things my left brain is in charge of.

Since he's been gone I've decided that it is a good thing to have two parents that are responsible for different things in making the family run smoothly. And to share in those responsibilities. It's too exhausting doing both. I think I may have even fallen asleep during a Sunday afternoon Mousetrap extravaganza. It's hard to find the energy for both Uno and homework. I don't know how single parents do it. Really I don't. And he's only been gone a week. My hats off to single parents, whether it is divorce, extended military leave, or long distance commuting.

Granted I'm the only one that is still getting hugs and kisses from the kids, but I'm thrilled he's coming home tomorrow. I'm tired of the sound of my own voice. Take a shower. Clean your room. And most important in the life a single parent, GO TO BED!!!

Fe Fi Phở Fum

2011-01-17T20:42:00.002-07:00

In an effort to add a little culture into the lives of our children, we decided to venture out for something other than Cafe Rio or a Happy Meal. We took them to the Green Papaya for dinner for Vietnamese Phở. I'd never had Phở before either until a few months ago. Really it's just a bowl of broth with some cellophane noodles, and thin slices of meat. Not much different than the Ramen my kids would eat on a regular basis if I let them. It's also possible to add bean sprouts, Thai basil, plum sauce, lime, Siracha hot sauce or jalapeno if you so desire. All of the above are totally optional though, and none of which were found in Josh's bowl.

Josh announced quite loudly that he didn't like Phở, wasn't going to try it, we couldn't make him, no way, no how, not ever. All the others politely tried it, some liked it, some not as much. Josh wouldn't even stick a chop stick in the bowl. I will not eat Phở in a pot. I will not eat it I will not!! I will not eat it anywhere! Matt even bet him that he would eat a whole jalapeno slice if he would just take three bites of noodles. Let's just say Matt got the spicy end of the jalapeno and Josh still would not eat any!

I wish my iphone had a faster shutter speed because I missed the shot of him forcing himself to violently gag and then throw up in the bowl. The pics also don't document the giant crocodile tears streaming down his face. Why yes!!! We were quite the spectacle at the Green Papaya this evening. If the Tiger Mom was there she would have made him gag the whole pot down. All in all I couldn't stop laughing at the scene.

My Husband...The Author

2011-01-14T17:35:00.001-07:00

One of Matt's resolutions last year was to write a book. I think I may have even snorted out my nose when he told me. I'm eating some mighty tasty humble pie. Matt's book was published this week. You can even purchase it on Amazon. It's already at 54,782 something on the bestseller list. If you're into eLearning you'll want to run right out and pick up a copy. (That might put him at 54,781 on the list.) How cool is that?

The Golden Rule

2011-01-13T16:35:00.002-07:00

There has been much talk in the media lately about compassion. Just this morning I heard President Obama call for "A Day of Compassion" in relation to the events that recently took place in Tucson. Last week I heard the governor of our state declare that he wanted to be known as a state that offers a warm welcome and compassion. Compassion: "is a virtue —one in which the emotional capacities of empathy and sympathy (for the suffering of others) are regarded as a part of love itself, and a cornerstone of greater social interconnectedness andhumanism —foundational to the highest principles in philosophy, society, and personhood." It is sometimes thought of as the greatest of all virtues.

Why are we seeing so much less of it lately? A friend called me this afternoon almost in tears. She related an experience she'd had today at Del Taco. She'd been out running errands and promised her 4 year old they'd stop for lunch. After ordering she looked around and there wasn't a seat to be had in the entire restaurant. It was then that she noticed about five other women dining that live on her street, including one that she diligently visit teaches each month, and another that secretly uses her trash can when hers is too full. They'd pushed three tables together and they were talking and having a good time. There was also a table next to them filled with garbage, but it was apparent that no one was sitting there. She sheepishly approached the women and inquired if the anyone was sitting at the garbage table and they told her the person had left a long time ago. She cleared a place and sat at the proximate table alone.

I can understand how thoroughly uncomfortable and awkward it was for her. It's happened to me before too! She listened to them talk about their soon to be kindergartners and watched her own playing alone in the playland. Through her tears she told me she was glad of two things: that she brought a book, and that her back was to the women. I don't know that she was looking for an invitation to join the women, but would that have been so difficult? How hard is it too say, "Come sit here, join us."

We (me, my friend, and the ladies at Del Taco) are members of the Latter Day Saint faith that teaches compassion, and sympathy, and empathy, and kindness, and charity. We are supposed to be aware and sympathetic to another's distress and try and help alleviate it. It seems we've forgotten the "Golden Rule", which is basically do unto others as you would have them do to you.

After hearing her story I was reminded of this article in which the author laments that she has lived in an area for a year and has no friends. It was also sad to read all the comments as well in which many stated that they felt lonely too.

My feelings are hurt for my friend. My feelings are hurt for the woman at the gym this morning who was a bit overweight and walking on the treadmill in her stocking feet. I know she heard the women behind her on the ellipticals making fun of her. My feelings are hurt for the woman that was honked at in an intersection as she pushed a stroller and carried a screaming toddler all because an impatient man couldn't make a right turn on red. My feelings were hurt last week when someone left a snarky and unnecessary comment on my blog.

As George Eliot said in Middlemarch, "What do we live for if not to make lives less difficult for each other." Are we becoming so self centered and self righteous that we can't practice the Golden Rule? Really? Compassion should be part of our daily lives, an automatic response. We should be teaching our children this too. We need to reach out, include, be kinder, be more charitable. And, by the way, if you dined at the Del Taco in American Fork today and saw my friend and her daughter....shame on you!!

12 on the 12th

2011-01-13T13:36:00.002-07:00

There is a blog I read occasionally in which she documents her day with photos on the 12th of every month. Originally I thought it was kind of a crazy thing to do. Who carries a camera with them all day? I realized I do have my phone with me almost all day, so I decided to give it a try. Even though I was kind of skeptical at first, it was actually kind of fun and a fun way to document the day.

1. I didn't have any time to run, but REALLY wanted to. I got in as much as I could with the time I had.
2. Caroline's friend, H, and H.'s first day at dance.
3. Listened to the Diane Rehm Show as I drove a carpool.
4. Caroline went to play with a friend.
5. Grocery shopped.
6. Made dinner for a friend whose husband has been sick.
7. Listened to Glee-Vol. 4 while I cleaned the house. Loved it!
8. Helped with homework.
9. Piano lessons
10. Journeyed to swim team.
11. Took Caroline swimming while others were at swim team.
12. Nibbled on popcorn in my bed while I read a book.

Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Cookie

2011-01-07T14:47:00.000-07:00

So here we are just about a week into the new year. I'm not ready to abandon my diet (give me a few weeks), and I'm still on a sugar high from the holidays. So what's a Mom to do when her 4 year old looks up with her big blue eyes and says, "Mom, can we bake cookies today?" **I should note that I don't have enough willpower to make cookies and not eat ANY!

Why, bake the low-cal version of course! These are actually pretty darn good, and they only have 1 Weight Watchers Point...on the old program at least. Not sure how many calories, but one will satisfy the dieters sweet tooth.

Ingredients

2 T. butter, softened

2 T. canola oil

1/2 c. dark brown sugar

1 t. vanilla extract

1/8 t. salt

1 large egg white

3/4 c. flour

1/4 t. baking soda

1/2 c. mini chocolate chips

1. Preheat oven to 375.

2. Cream together butter, oil and brown sugar. Add vanilla, salt and egg white and mix together thoroughly.

3. Mix together flour and baking soda. Add chocolate chips and stir to distribute evenly.

4. Drop rounded teaspoons of dough onto non-stick baking sheet. Bake cookies 4 to 6 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.

Makes 12 cookies

**I usually double the recipe. My kids like these as well as regular chocolate chip cookies.

I don't like you in your running clothes!

2011-01-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

Mile 13-SLC marathon...note how she keeps her distance!

My youngest is very fickle and really only loves me part of the time. She's very vocal about this fact too. She throws her arms around me, and gives me endless kisses when she does, and grunts, squeals and runs at my sight when she doesn't. You see, Caroline only loves me when I "have makeup on, and I'm not in my running clothes". When I wake her up in the morning I have to announce my attire and my mascara condition. That is her cue if she's going to let me snuggle with her or send me packing. She won't even hold my hand while walking into the gym. It's interesting because her father, on the other hand, has never seen a tube of lipstick and could have rolled around in a pig pen and she'll still shower him with love and affection. I have to wait for my loves after I've showered and dressed for the day. It makes us laugh every single day!

DETOX

2011-01-03T18:24:00.005-07:00

If Christmas is "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year", then the first Monday after Jan. 1 (after all the New Year really doesn't start in my household until all have returned to school and work) has to be "The Most Difficult Time of the Year." It is so hard to go back to the regular routine after two weeks of sleeping in, lounging about, dining out, nightly dessert, and just plain enjoying one another's company. (Well...most of the time.) I can understand why people go into a deep depression right after the holidays. It is kind of a let down to be back in the thick of things again. Sometimes I think I could live in a land of perpetual Christmas Vacation, until I realize that it would forever be December. The one thing January has going for it is that it is closer to Spring than December!

January is all about resolutions. Diets...fewer cream puffs more leafy things. Exercise...less lounging about more moving around. Organization...hours inside a dusty closet purging stuff. Abstinence...less Diet Coke, more water. You get the idea. But what fun is that?? Too bad December gets all the fun and January has to clean up the carnage.

But oh, the possibilities that January brings. The year is a blank slate ready to be filled. It was kind of cool this morning when Will leapt out of bed and got right to work to work on his resolutions. That boy is a goal setter...just like his mama. I'd share some of them with you, but I've been sworn to secrecy. He's an achiever, now if only we could get him to turn in his school assignments. Ooops! That is one of his resolutions!

So I've cleared the cupboard of all of the Christmas treats, and today, after dutifully putting in time at the gym, (which was beyond crowded), I went to the store to stock up on carrot sticks. I'm just doing what January demands I owe her. Pay back for living it up last month. I suppose I should also mention that while at the store today I didn't purchase anymore Diet Coke. January just doesn't think it's cool that I've been drinking so much. Man, I can't wait for February to arrive so we can all relax a little!

Get Your Balaclava On!

2011-01-02T20:01:00.000-07:00

After recalling a great New Year's Day run we'd had together in a blizzard two years ago, Lisa and I made plans for a run this year on New Year's Day. We thought it would be a great way to ring in the new year and start our new training plans for the Moab Half, and Ogden Marathon this spring. Of course we made plans when I'm pretty sure it was a balmy 36 degrees.

When the forecast was for less than desirable temperatures we considered our options. We could bail. We could run side by side on treadmills at the gym, or we could just suck it up. Although the first two options were mighty appealing we just bundled up and braved the frigid air.

I love running with her. We had a great time chatting about our kids, school, Botox and plastic surgery, religion and diets. We returned seven miles later and decided that if we can brave those temperatures for a run that anything else the year can throw at us will seem like a cake walk. It was a great way to start the year!!

Christmas Memories

2010-12-30T16:01:00.001-07:00

I've said it before, and I'll say it again...my favorite week of the year is the week between Christmas and New Year's. Matt takes the week off. This is one of the very few times of year when we have no responsibilities and no where to be, just fun stuff happening all week!!

First things first though...

Christmas Eve

We get together with my family on Christmas Eve. Uncle Paul makes pizzas. Delish. And we exchange gifts.

Let the party begin!!

Caroline's most requested and favorite gift...Hello Kitty makeup!

Will and Cooper-beyond pleased with their presents. Dad...not so pleased. :)

L. the newest nephew...check out those smoochable cheeks...the baby's not Kalli's!

Christmas Morning

We have a rule in our house. No one comes into Mom and Dad's room until there is a 7 in the first digit on the clock. We set that rule because in years past we had a trail of kids in and out of our room all night long. The kids usually set a book or hand held game by their bedside on Christmas Eve night to keep them occupied until the 7 o'clock hour. Cruel? Maybe. But Santa seems to arrive later and later each year, so this rule seems to be a necessity! Anyway, apparently Josh was the only one to awaken early...6 something he says. As instructed he played his DSI in his room until 7:28 when Emma burst through the door of her room shouting to her siblings that they'd overslept and it was time to inspect Santa's delivery.

During the traditional "Christmas Morning Stair Photo Op" everyone noticed that Caroline was shaking with excitement. Literally. Her legs wouldn't stop quivering. We opened stockings and inspected Santa's gift. I then noticed Caroline curled up in a little ball complaining that her tummy hurt. (I thought she was just disappointed or something.) We finished opening gifts and were beginning to move on to breakfast when Vomit the reindeer paid Caroline a visit. She then was just fine the rest of the day. The nervous excitement was more than her tummy could handle.

After a morning of playing with toys and such we headed over to Grandma and Grandpa's for dinner. The great news of the day was that our niece and cousin Sarah Ashley got engaged to Mason. We're only REALLY disappointed to learn that they are getting married when we are on vacation next year. Our tickets are non refundable, and naturally we'd never when them to plan around our vacation. We'll be sad to miss it though!!

You can't see Caroline quivering in the photo.

Santa brought a "little kitchen"

Emma had been talking about the Optical Illusion book for months.

Dad's favorite movie of the year, "Inception".

We both look a little sleepy!

My favorite moment were the hugs the kids gave each other after opening the gifts they had made for one another. Emma made each of the kids a personal photo album.

Josh was so excited!!

Right after presents. Before Vomit the reindeer paid a visit.

Dec 27-28

We headed up to the cabin with Grandpa and the Thomas'. We were a bit worried about getting in because we had heard how much snow they had recently. Grandpa has to ride in the sled on the back of the snowmobile and we hoped it wouldn't be too difficult for him. We made it in with no problems. The kids spent the rest of the day and next morning sledding, building snow caves and riding the snowmobiles. They LOVE the cabin, and it's especially fun in winter.

We're guessing there was about six feet of snow.

This is the only picture we got of Will...he was always outside in a snowbank somewhere.

Josh was King of the Hill

Caroline climbing out of the snow cave that Uncle Jeff built.

Kids were always dying for a snowmobile ride!

Beautiful, but FREEZING (2 degree) day on the snowmobiles.

Matt always wants everyone to wave in their pictures. ???

Movies

We love to go to movies during this time of year. The boys saw "Tron" yesterday, we watch movies at home in the evening and we went as a family to see "Gulliver's Travel's" today. We love Jack Black and really enjoyed Gulliver. We have a few more movies on the horizon that we hope to see before the break is over.

Games

In addition to the many games played at the cabin, the kids have been hooked on their new XBox-Kinect. The coffee table in the family room has been pushed aside so that they can run and jump with their new toy. Emma and Will played a virtual game of volleyball last night that literally left them sweating. Of course it doesn't replace playing outside, but the Kinect seems to be a great way to get them moving during the winter months.

Reading

Ok....I seem to be the only one participating in this activity this week, but it's been great. Normally I would feel so guilty about reading in the middle of the day, but with all of us on vacation (including me), it's been wonderful. I've finished two books and am starting on a third. Guess I really should put down the book and go fold a load of laundry though.

With all that said the most difficult week of the year for me is the first week of January when everyone goes back to school, work and our regular routines. I always feel kind of sad. Guess we should continue to live it up for a few more days...afterall, it's still Dec. 30!!!!

Christmas Letter 2010

2010-12-24T14:17:00.001-07:00

Important Lessons We Learned This Year

Christmas 2010

1. When the sign says “Rainforest” Believe it! We took the family to Oahu this year and rented a beach house on the North Shore. We dined on shaved ice daily. When we weren’t at Waimea Bay—which is our favorite beach of all time—we were exploring the island. One day we decided to hike to Manoa Falls, a two-mile trail marked “Easy”. We felt like we were prepared, heck, we live in the Rocky Mountains. But what we didn’t prepare for was the rain. Buckets of rain. Within seconds we were soaked. At first the children shed a few tears with the raindrops, but then it became an adventure. As the trail turned to red mud, we had to hold on to anything to keep from slipping and falling. The kids were determined to get to the top and that kept us moving along—climbing over rocks and scampering over large wet roots. Indiana Jones had nothing on our kids. Even little Caroline hiked the whole trail on her own. Cold and wet, we made it. We have determined little travelers!

2. If you give a girl dance lessons, she’ll want an audience to go with it. Caroline (age 4) is our littlest performer. At least once a week she will produce what she calls, “The Caroline Show.” She’ll have Emma—her agent—create and distribute the tickets and then we’ll all be asked to sit and watch her performance…a spectacle that rivals Dancing With the Stars. Periodically, the event will be placed on hold while Caroline takes care of her second favorite pastime, applying more makeup.

3. Lego’s should be part of the 1^st grade curriculum. After patiently waiting, Josh (age 7), started 1^st grade this Fall. He is excelling in school and always has his nose stuck in a book. He has enjoyed the creative writing done in his Language Arts class—his original stories keep us laughing. Now, if Lego building was included in his education he’d be in heaven. After homework (yes, even for a 1^st grader), he spends afternoons cocooned in his bedroom working on his Lego creations. Inspired by Will’s swim team experience Josh decided to try out for the team. His first attempt ended with the lifeguard following him around the pool ready to perform a rescue. But he soon improved and was accepted to the team, making it all the way to the championship meet.

4. Martha Stewart has some competition. Emma (age 9) has become our resident doyenne of domesticity. Her goal this summer was to learn how to cook five different dishes—which she did with ease. She loves to cook and has recently added sewing to her repertoire. She asked for more sewing supplies for Christmas to design her own creations. She really enjoys soccer and has recently joined the swim team. She loves the competitive nature of sports. Early in life we noticed that Emma LOVES to play games and is über competitive. If she ever engages you in a board game, just back away slowly because she will, and I repeat, “will” take you down.

5. Myth busted: Aquaman exists! Will (age 11) decided to join the swim team this year. He practices multiple times each week and in the summer had a couple of weekly meets. We believe, that given the choice, Will would live out his life underwater. Now, if there was only a way to create a library of waterproof books that he could read his life would be perfect! Will also ran on his school Cross Country team this fall. As long as he doesn’t take bike lessons from Laura we may have a future Ironman!

6. Lance Armstrong she ain’t. Laura is a great runner. Let’s just say she shouldn’t give that up. This year she ran the Wasatch Back (three-peat), the Mapleton Half Marathon, the Moab Half, The Dirty Dash, and bunches of 5Ks. However, when we decided to rent bicycles in San Francisco and ride across the Golden Gate Bridge (where we got engaged 12 years ago), we didn’t realize the event was going to end with her tripping over her bike on the corner of Powell and Market Street—one of the busiest corners in the city. A homeless man and a cop rushed to her aid to help her up. She looked helpless enough. If they only knew how tough she really was!

7. Diamonds are a traveler’s best friend. It has come to Matt’s attention that he will lose his Diamond status with Delta at the end of the year. Even though he has traveled for work a fair amount he hasn’t yet been able to repeat the ultimate status with the airline that has provided him with an upgrade on almost every flight, SkyClub perks, and lots of bonus frequent flyer miles. This year he co-wrote a book about virtual-classrooms. While we don’t expect it to be a NY Times bestseller, it will still be a published book nonetheless!

As life tends to speed up, we hope you take time to enjoy your own life lessons. Have a safe and Merry Christmas!

Love, the Murdoch Family

Transcript

2010-12-12T17:01:00.000-07:00

**As this blog is mainly about our family history, I'm posting it because it's something that makes me smile.

The following is a transcript of e-mails between Emma and her Dad starting Aug. 9, 2010:

Aug 9.- Dad wen can we go camping.

Aug 9-Let's plan to go on September 17.

Oct 25-dad we did not go camping on september 17, 2010. you said we could.

Oct 25-Hmmm. You are right. How can I make it up to you?

Dec 12-you can take me to bondocks and frogrt you could do that. you need to do that because you did not go camping on the day before josh's birthday.

Dec 12-Let's plan to go to Boondocks and Frogurt over Christmas break.

If only she knew how much easier it is to go camping than to Boondocks!

Dancing Queen

2010-12-08T13:42:00.001-07:00

The highlights of Caroline's entire year are her two dance performances. One in the spring. One in the winter. She danced last week at her Christmas performance.

This girl LOVES BEING ON STAGE...almost as much as she loves the copious amounts of makeup that go with being on stage!! She practiced her dance and makeup application for weeks. The makeup got so bad that I had to insist that she could only wear it at home, and not when we left the house.

When her moment came she marched across the stage with her classmates and performed effortlessly. (Which is kind of ironic because recently she has developed a phobia to music....I can't have music on the in house or car without her screaming and crying at me to turn it off. What's up with that??!)

It really does bring her much joy to dance!

Caroline in the middle.

Thanksgiving Recap

2010-11-29T20:56:00.001-07:00

Another cookie cutter Thanksgiving this year, which I think is positively delightful! Traditions! Traditions! Traditions!

1. Human Race 5K-

We had many a moment of should we or shouldn't we. Even though it is tradition we kept vasilating because it was forecast to be -2 degrees at race start. Frozen Giblets! In the end we left the littlest with Baca (who also didn't want to freeze her tail feathers), and joined 3,000 others in the race. Fortunately it had warmed up to 5 degrees by race start. And we dressed so warmly I can honestly say we were hot while running! This isn't a competitive race at all (most run without timing chips), and we raised $40K for the Utah Food Bank.

2. Turkey Dinner-

Mealtime was at Grandpa and Grandma's this year. Our contribution was mashed potatoes and pie. Josh helped me peel 20 pounds of potatoes the day prior. He was a fantastic help! I had no idea he could wield a peeler like he did. I don't know why it took me seven years to find this out. We mashed them with cream cheese, butter, and sour cream. (Too fattening to be your everyday Sunday variety.) Positively divine! However, I will say that they were so rich that it was difficult to eat them with gravy.

Craig Ferguson and Bridger filming Ford Expo commericial.

"Andy Griffith and Opie"

Aunt Alison had had some side effects to a procedure earlier in the week so she wasn't feeling well, however, the rest of the King's were at the table. Aunt Debby and Uncle Drew were also there with their whole family. We loved hearing Bridger's stories about his new gig on the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. We all agree he will be the richest and most famous of us all!

3. Movie-

Tangled was the movie of choice. We all really enjoyed it...except for Caroline. One might think she would have enjoyed it best of all. After all it is a PRINCESS movie! However, for some reason she was really scared. She sat on our laps the entire movie and hid her eyes during certain scenes. When the credits rolled she SOBBED!! She said she was so scared. We thought it was the evil witch/mother, but she said it was scary when they sang. Hmm.....

4. BYU vs UofU game-

Granted this wasn't on Thanksgiving, but was a big part of our weekend. Quick recap: BYU led up until the last four minutes. Crazy game. Neither team seemed like they could hold onto the ball, or really score for that matter. Lots of interceptions/fumbles. Last four minutes Utah takes lead by one point. BYU gets the ball for a last drive. Takes it down the field within field goal range. Last four seconds they MISS the kick. Utah wins by one point...17-16. I am the ONLY disappointed fan at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Sure is hard to live amongst so many Utes!

5. SNOW DAY!

The snow began to fall on Sunday morning. Matt flew to Orlando to escape (just for business really, but did he check the snowblower before departure...NO!). Snow falls all day. Snow falls all night. I shovel the driveway many a time. We get up for school this morning and in the middle of breakfast receive a call from the Thomas'....NO SCHOOL!!! TOO MUCH SNOW!!! When has this EVER happened....NEVER!! We cheer! We put on snow clothes and go sledding. Actually I exaggerate...the KIDS put on snow clothes and went sledding. I sat and chatted in a friend's warm kitchen and peeked out the window at them occasionally. What a great day! Especially since the great blizzard forecast of a few days prior was a COMPLETE dud!

Blizzard Warning

2010-11-23T09:48:00.002-07:00

You know those days when the weatherman forecasts a giant snow storm and you groan because it just so happens that it is forecast for a day when you have a million and one things to get done outside of the house which requires you to get bundled up and venture out into the elements and slip all over the road in your car, and you just wish more than anything that you could just be home in your sweats with your family, sipping hot chocolate, baking cookies and playing games by the fire? (How's THAT for a run-on sentence?)

Well, the storm is coming!! There is a blizzard warning forecast for tonight. And I'm so excited! We have NOTHING happening tomorrow! No school. No activities. No agenda. Actually there is an agenda...it involves baking pies, peeling potatoes, sipping hot chocolate, reading books, watching movies and playing games. JOY! This storm couldn't have planned a better day. (So says me, who is NOT traveling out of town for Thanksgiving. If you are planning to travel tomorrow I am so sorry and pray for your safe arrival where ever you are going!!)

Today I am flitting from one thing to the next to prepare for the event. Store for baking supplies. Check. Library for new books. Check. Netflix account for movies updated. Check. House clean today so I don't have to worry tomorrow. Check. That includes laundry too. Check. We're almost ready.

Bring on the snow!!!

Random Thoughts

2010-11-19T14:45:00.004-07:00

1. The previous pictures were from Josh's 1st grade Jazz performance yesterday at school. They sang darling early Jazz songs like, "Rag Mop", "Red, Red Robin", "Ain't Nobody Here But Us Chickens". And how they got my 7 year old boy to dance with a girl, I'll never know. It was so cute, I was grinning from ear to ear all afternoon.

2. The last Harry Potter movie (at least the first half) was released today. I am not a Harry Potter fan. (GASP!!) I read the first book, and saw the first and maybe the fifth movie. Not my thing. Can we still be friends?

3. I am usually finished with my Christmas shopping and wrapping by Thanksgiving. Not so this year. Up until a few days ago I had no idea what the kiddies wanted for Christmas. I guess I should say what they wanted that is within Santa's parameters. Sure gets expensive for the elves as the kids get bigger!

4. The little gifts are the most difficult for me each Christmas season...teachers, neighbors, friends, work associates. It's hard to find something that is cute, yet cost effective, and yet meaningful. I'm still stumped there this year.

5. Caroline is having a sleepover tonight with her cousin Jane at Baca's house. Cookies, nail polish, and Candyland are on the agenda. She is over the moon with excitement!!

6. Will is going on his first winter campout tonight with the Scouts. Fortunately the temp is almost 60 today, but it is REALLY windy. Hopefully they bring sturdy tent stakes or they could find themselves in Denver by morning.

7. I got some really awful e-mail this morning from a friend whose account had been hacked. I'm usually really good about not opening mail that I think is not legit. However, I did open this. I didn't see much, but what I did see has burned the retinas in my eyes. Why do such idiots feel the need to publish such garbage!! I thought what happened in Vegas was supposed to stay there. There ought to be a law! Oh wait, there is.....

8. I'm having a really difficult time getting out of bed to exercise in the morning. Or really exercise at any other time for that matter. It's so dark. I'm so tired, and I just don't feel like it. My waistline knows it too! Sigh.

9. Speaking of waistline maybe part of my issue is the new ice cream I've found. It's even the Smith's store brand Private Selection. Our flavor of choice this week is Sea Salt Caramel Truffle. Wow!

10. Emma's two best friends had a disagreement this week. I never would have known had one of the mom's not mentioned it to me in passing . I questioned Emma about this. She offhandedly mentioned they were fighting although she didn't know details. However during the disagreement, Emma did not choose sides, or betray the confidence of either friend. I'm so proud of her for remaining loyal to both. Emma really is a good friend to have.

11. While driving on the freeway today I passed three different girls that appeared to be texting while driving. They appeared to all be under 25 and driving Daddy's car. I wondered if Daddy knew that his princess was updating her facebook account while careening in an out of lanes at 75 mph? I wanted to tweet him to let him know.

12. I was at Utah Idaho Supply today. They have some great games for kids that I've never seen in stores. I'll have to make another stop there this season without a child in tow.

13. The fastest two months of the year are those between Halloween and Christmas. Can you believe it is almost Thanksgiving?

Speech Festival

2010-11-11T09:26:00.000-07:00

Rather than in later years he think I did not bring my camera to his moment of glory, I will post the blurry pics anyway.

I had to turn off the flash and hold the camera amazingly still. Looks like I failed on the still part!

If Will could make a living based solely on his memorization skills, he'll be a millionaire!

Will was selected to take place in the school Speech Festival again this year. There was some confusion as to when the poem was originally due, so basically he memorized the entire 3 minute poem in one afternoon. Then thinking he had not made the finals it immediately left his brain. Come to find out he'd actually made the finals and spent another hour re-memorizing.

He presented his oratory speech this afternoon in the school auditorium. Other than a brief moment of memory lapse, he did a fantastic job. He recited "The Boy Who Laughed At Santa Claus" by Ogden Nash. He really loves public speaking.

We're proud of your skills, Will! Way to go!!

Tartine

2010-11-10T05:06:00.005-07:00

Bread Pudding. Not my photo. Not topped with cranberries, but you get the idea. My photos were deleted from my memory card. :(

Tartine. How could this bakery that I'd heard of in passing possibly be worth the hype? As we made our way there by taxi in the pouring rain, I envisioned sipping some hot chocolate while nibbling a croissant at a quiet neighborhood bakery. Au contraire.
Shocked. I never expected to see a line snaking out of the building and up the block. Wait. We waited patiently in the rain for our turn. I'm usually not much of a line person. If there's a line or a crowd, I'm outta there! However, since it was a taxi ride away and obviously celebrated, we stayed. We chatted with others in line. There were newbies as perplexed as we were, and old-timers that made order suggestions. We were told we couldn't go wrong with anything.
Bakery Nazi. Once inside we had a sideways view of the display case. We barely saw what was being offered before we were called upon to place our order. Hurry up, order, move along.
Decisions. Decisions. Morning Buns. Croissants. Bread Pudding. Tea Scones. And was it too early for dessert? Lemon Meringue Cake. Banana Cream Tart. Chocolate Souffle Cake. Eclairs. How were we to know? Was it possible to ask for a taste of everything before we had to decide? I wanted a cartful. I wanted to hoard it all. Since we were boarding a plane in a few hours, I knew it wasn't possible. Orange Juice. I did have the sense of mind to remember a friend's recommendation before I reached the register.
Envy. We stumbled beyond the few tables to the window, as we hoped that someone would brush their crumbs aside and get up and leave. No luck. We wolfed our food down in the display window while the mob outside watched on.
Bread Pudding. Layers of brioche delicately flavored with a light carmel sauce topped with a hearty serving of cranberries. I'd chosen beyond well. Matt settled upon the Niman smoked ham and Gruyere cheese croissant with a side of pain au chocolat for dessert. A banana cream tart was packaged to go for me. Matt triumphantly declared the pain the best he had ever eaten worldwide. He is a true pain au chocolat aficionado!
Regrets. I have several. That we didn't eat here every morning of vacation. That I didn't get more than one thing packed to go. And that I didn't order the bowl instead of the cup of bread pudding.
Tartine. Yes, it is worth everything you've ever or never heard about it. And then some. We'll definitely be back!

San Francisco

2010-11-09T15:03:00.001-07:00

Photo in Alcatraz taken on my iPhone.

I plugged my memory card into the computer to document our recent getaway to San Francisco. Alas, it is corrupted. Bummer. Had I been able to photo document the trip you would have seen this:

Some of the worst Chinese food we've eaten....even within the gates of Chinatown. Concierge recommended. It was edible, but not really enjoyable.
Our trolley car ride. You wouldn't have heard the conductor yelling at Matt to stay out of the aisles though as I took the pics.
Matt and I on our bikes riding through Crissy Field and across the Golden Gate Bridge, which also happens to be the locale where we got engaged. We stopped every few feet it seemed for a photo op.
You would have seen photos of Sausilito and the Golden Gate at sunset.

What was not documented was the fall I took in the middle of Union Square (think major trolley car stop), as I tried to turn my bicycle around. I collapsed, my shoe went flying. Homeless men and police men came to my rescue while Matt retrieved my shoe.

I would have posted pictures of Alcatraz. The ferry ride over and silly shots that we took in the cells of the prison. I had never been to Alcatraz. (As someone that used to live in the area, the tours were always sold out when I ventured downtown.) It was fascinating.
Lunch at Scoma's would have been posted here as well. After this most recent visit I've added it to my list of top ten favorite restaurants. The scallops and shrimp were divine. I think our waiter had been working since the day it opened though.

We didn't take pictures of treasure hunting through the streets of San Francisco. We mapped many different antique stores and walked blocks and blocks, up and down hills, in search of each one. We saw atypical tourist areas. The real San Francisco.

Our breakfast at the world famous Tartine would have also been featured. That deserves a post in an of itself!

I also didn't photograph the TSA security guard that I slipped my room key to instead of my driver's license. Some people will try anything to get through security these days!

So while I don't have pictures of these events, Matt and I have great memories of our weekend away, and the fun time we had together.

Bliss

2010-11-08T16:33:00.002-07:00

Early morning view of Golden Gate Bridge.

I've been running for a few years now, but rarely feel the ubiquitous "runner's high". Maybe it's because I regularly run on the same trails, in the same neighborhood, the same distance (give or take a few miles), at the same speed. It's all very predictable.

However, all the planets were in alignment during my vacation run in San Francisco this past weekend. I started out not knowing exactly where or how far I was going to go. Maybe I would run down by the wharf, maybe I would run up some hills, maybe I would make it all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge, I just wasn't sure.

It was a great morning for a run. The thick bay fog, rolled across my path as I started my journey. I ran through Union Square in the direction of the wharf. I ran through commuters coming out from the ferry port ready to start their work day. It seems I stopped every bit or so to snap a photo with my iPhone. I drafted other tourists during their morning jaunt. I ran through a nearly desolate Fisherman's Wharf, and was impressed with the fisherman that were already returning with the day's catch. The whiffs of fresh, baking sourdough were like energy shots. I kept going up through Fort Mason. I nearly sprinted to the top of the hill at Fort Mason amazed at my lung capacity as I ran at sea level. I knew that if I turned back now my total run would be about 8 miles. However, I felt amazing! I wanted to keep going.

Fisherman's Wharf

The view atop Fort Mason

I continued past Crissy Field, and almost to the bridge. The sun was starting to peek through and the weather was fantastic. Because I was feeling adventurous I decided to take another way back. I studied the map in my zippered jacket, and ran towards Lombard Street, the crookedest street in the world. As I made my way there I was prodded by a high school gym teacher to race his girls to the top of the steps on Chestnut Street. If they beat me they could call it a day and run back to school. If not, they had to keep going. I gave it a valiant effort, but about 3/4 of the way up my thighs and my lungs were burning. I stopped to walk. They were jubilant as they crossed the finish.

I zig zagged down Lombard Street and marveled at the stunning hydrangeas that were the size of my head. (Why, oh why, can't I get these to grow in my yard?) I slowed down to a walking trot as I made my way through the Russian Hill neighborhood. There was one hill in particular that was so steep that I had to stop half way up (walking I might add), just to catch my breath. The picture I took of the hill does not do it justice to the steepness of the slope. I swear it was worse than it looks!

This does not accurately portray how steep it was!

I gawked at houses, peered through quaint courtyards, and longed to ring the bell and be invited in for tea. I pulled fliers at houses that were for rent and was astonished at the prices....between $6500 and $10K a month for rent!

I ran through more neighborhoods, past parks, and a cathedral on my way back to my hotel. I was positively giddy with the things I had seen and the energy I had. The day and my vacation had only just begun. My legs burned, I was a sweaty mess, and ready for a nap. But I truly had found my bliss!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T14:47:00.003-06:00

Happy Halloween from a Bunny, Vampiress, Rocker and Harry Potter!

(Sounds like the cast from "A Breakfast Club!")

It may have been cold and very rainy, but that didn't dampen their spirits. They came home with a combined total of 14.5 pounds of candy. I thought the rain might limit the number of trick or treaters to our house, but instead they ran from house to house and came faster. We survived yet another year!

P.S. Since Halloween was on a Sunday this year the neighborhood, filled with us Mormons, tricked and treated on Saturday night. Worked for us!

Skiing With Grandpa

2010-10-30T18:48:00.007-06:00

We picked up our ski season passes today. This is the first year we've done this. One of our kids is quite a proficient skier and we have another budding snowboarder and skier well on their way. We decided it was high time we took advantage of our great proximity to some of the best skiing in the world and spend our Saturdays carving out powder with our kids. The littlest will stay home this year for some "sneakout" time with which ever one of us is not on the mountain with the others.

I mentioned to Grandpa today about our passes and he told me stories of skiing when he was a boy. He started skiing in about the 5th grade at age 10 and skied all through Jr. High and High School. But back in the day it wasn't as easy as it is now. You see, every Saturday, Grandpa would hitchhike ALONE from his house on 6200 S. to either Alta or Brighton. I couldn't imagine sending my 10 year old to ski, let alone hitchhike.

He really preferred Alta, but would go to where ever his ride would take him. They didn't have lift passes then just individual tickets that he would redeem for a ride on a tow rope or more tickets for the new lift at Alta that really "took you up the mountain". He remembers when Brighton got their first lift, Millicent, a few years after he started skiing. It then became his favorite part of the mountain.

None of the fancy skis for Grandpa either. He skied on long, wooden skis with giant bindings. It made it almost impossible to parallel ski.

None of Grandpa's friends were interested in skiing. So every Saturday morning he left the house alone at dawn for the journey up to the slopes. It helped that his house was on the only local route to the canyons. People from the Salt Lake Valley drove down Highland drive and then up 6200 S. to get to the canyons. He stood out on the street and begged for rides. He says he wouldn't have been as great of a skier if this weren't the case. It was his only way there.

The way up was always easy. Someone always stopped. The trickier part was getting home. He said it was a matter of timing. He needed to leave the slopes at just the right time to find a ride home. Too early, and well, he missed out on a great afternoon skiing. Too late, and there was no one left on the mountain. He remembers one Saturday in particular when he was having a great day skiing. He didn't notice that the sun had set behind the mountains (no 4:30 closing then), and that a storm was brewing. When he got to the parking lot it was a dark blizzard, and there was two cars left in the lot. He started walking down the canyon in the dark. A car passed him, and then stopped, backed up, and opened the door. His savior for the evening. He said he felt so fortunate that he had a ride that night.

Times were different then. He said he could have fallen from the face mountain or tumbled into a snowdrift and no one would have known were he was. He teased that upon failing to return from the slopes that his parents might ask, "Where's Billy?" To which someone would reply, "Oh, we think he left to go skiing about a month ago."

We're glad you made it home safely Grandpa and lived to tell us fun stories of skiing "Back in the Day!"

Cross Country

2010-10-27T07:45:00.007-06:00

Will came to me at the beginning of the school year to tell me that he was joining the Cross Country Team. Never mind the fact that our extra-cirricular schedule was brimming with activities. Never mind the fact that many meets were at schools an hour away. This is something that he told me he really wanted to do. So difficult as it was, we put it on the agenda this Fall. They practiced for an hour every day after school, and had meets twice a week. Will even laced up his shoes and ran on Saturdays after swim team. He wasn't the fastest runner. He wasn't the slowest runner. But this Fall Will learned to challenge himself both physically and academically, as he fit in all of his school assignments around his schedule. And just like he chants in his running mantra:

"My name is Will. And I can do hard things!!"

Will and his best friend P.

Boys Cross Country-1st place

R.I.P. Everest

2010-10-25T19:01:00.004-06:00

This is the only picture I have of him...right after we got him. He grew to about 2 1/2 times this size.

Two years ago on Christmas morning we welcomed this little animal into our home. We played with him, fed and watered him, and loved him. Last week I noticed he was chewing up his food and spitting it back into his water dish. He was very lethargic. Saturday I commented that I thought he was sick. This morning he died. I knew before the kids left for school, but I couldn't let them start their day that way, so I said nothing. I myself didn't want to admit he was gone, so I waited until later in the morning to touch him and clean his cage.

Of course all of this happened when Matt was out of town. He felt really badly that he wasn't here for the kids.

The kids were devastated when they returned from school. Will took it especially hard. Everest was his pet. He said he was most sad because Everest was the one he talked to when he had a bad or lonely day. I'm not sure we'll ever have another guinea pig, but we all loved Everest when he was here. (Well at least, most of us, most of the time.)

Over the River and Through the Mud

2010-10-24T14:56:00.009-06:00

The following copy is from thedirtydash.com. They just put it so eloquently into words for me.

Have you ever said to yourself, “Marathons are too easy, and Triathlons are for sissies?”

I haven’t either…those races are really hard. Think about it…the first person to run a marathon actually died. HE DIED!...and he probably didn’t even have fun along the way!

Here's the newest race in town...The Dirty Dash! This race puts all other races to shame. The Dirty Dash is where a military boot camp meets your inner five-year-old’s fantasy and subsequently converts boy to man and then…man to swine.

You’ll need endurance to trudge up mountains of sludge, courage to overcome uncompromising obstacles, a complete lack of shame to wallow in pits of mud and a smile to show through at the end!

So let this 10K obstacle course become your new guilty pleasure. On either accord…you will be able to look at yourself in the mirror and say “I am a Dirty Dasher!”… and then proceed to clean yourself off.

On September 25, Janae, Lisa, Sheri, Kim and I comprised a team of 5 little piggies and proceeded to haul our cargo over the Dirty Dash obstacle course at Soldier Hollow. Up the muddy hill climb, over hay bales, through the tunnels, up and over walls, through the mud bog, down the slip and slide and into the pig sty we did slop. It was messy. It was difficult...surprisingly quite difficult. We laughed, we cried, we got a little dirty, and then a lot dirty.

And then when it was over I proceeded to do parts of it all over again with my kids. It definitely was a "life's experience" kind of race. I am a Dirty Dasher!

The kids--pre-muddied.

Disneyland 2010

2010-10-23T04:42:00.000-06:00

What's a family of 6 to do in Utah over a 5 day Fall Break?

Why, go to Disneyland, of course!!

(Along with the rest of the population from Utah and Arizona)

What's a family of 6 to do when airfare to So. California is almost $300 per person?

Why, drive the distance, of course!!

No matter.

Two days total driving=One Fantastic Beach Day in Corona Del Mar and

Three Days at the Happiest Place on Earth!!

The youngest, who can't remember her last visit when she was 2, decided that this was the year of the Princess.

We dined at Ariel's Grotto (a belated birthday celebration for her), and saw them all.

(Expensive, but wow, sure beats waiting hours in line over in Fairyland!! Which was the case on our last visit.)

At one point she even tried to follow Snow White into the bathroom and was dismayed when she was turned away at the door that stated, "Cast Members Only". She begged to wait for her. I told her Ms. White had to attend to the dwarfs.

We bribed the older children with ice cream if they would just pose with Belle. They obliged, albeit, VERY RELUCTANTLY!!

On the first two days we rode every attraction possible and counted BYU and Ute sweatshirts along the way. The Cougs sure have some loyal fans. Even in this, a dismal season, the BYU's outranked the Utes. Yeah, baby!

We rode every ride possible! I wish I had a picture of Caroline's "40 inch" flipflops. They were stacked heels actually almost 2" high which enabled her to ride the 40 inch rides with the rest of the family. My favorite moment of the weekend was riding with her on Thunder Mountain Railroad. She screamed and squealed the entire way down. I honestly couldn't tell if she was scared or thrilled. Good thing it actually was the latter. She absolutely loved her 1st rollercoaster ride!

Josh was tall enough this year to ride Indiana Jones, and left with eyes as wide as saucers! His favorite ride was Pirates and Tower of Terror. Will loved Pirates and California Screamin'. Emma declared her favs to be California Screamin' and Indiana Jones. On Saturday we waited in a 40 minute Pirates line so that Matt could ride his all time favorite again! (Can you believe a line that long for Pirates??? The line wound around all the way to the Haunted Mansion!!) I loved Space Mountain--Ghost Galaxy! Unfortunately, I only rode it once.

And then there was Saturday....We know better than to go on a Saturday. Now we know better than to go on an October, Saturday before Halloween. Every person with an annual pass was at the park! No more BYU/Ute sweatshirts...they know better, it was ALL the locals. Let's just say that if that were our only experience with Disneyland, we would NEVER return. It was beyond crowded. Fortunately, we'd been on all the rides we wanted to, we were just going on "do overs". A friend once reminded me, "Your kids will never remember how long the lines were that day, they will just remember what a great time they had with the family!" I hope that's true!!

We actually used our Wednesday and went to the beach. The forecast for Saturday was cold and rainy so we traded the Disney crowds for a fabulous beach day. We usually head to Newport, but this time we checked out Corona del Mar. Matt and I had been there exactly a year prior, and thought the kids would love exploring. It did not disappoint. They frolicked and played in the surf.

For a few moments I lay on the sand listening to the surf and enjoying the beach air. I have to say I think laying on the beach is one of my very favorite things to do...ever! My dream is to one day live closer to the beach...as in right on the beach. In the meantime we'll just have to plan more beach vacations!