COOLPIX

Photography is at the top of Kennedy's list of things she's passionate about. Last summer she babysat and weeded for neighbors so that she could earn enough money to buy her own digital camera.

I borrowed her camera today to snap some shots and as I was going through the images I came across these pictures she's randomly taken. I thought they were cool and reflective of her life now.  I thought I would share.  

To Gab or Not to Gab

Facial features.  Hair color.  Intellect.  Body build.  Foot size.

These are characteristics that I know a person can inherit.  

But the gift of gab? I had no idea.

These 3 people are full fledged motormouths.

They like to talk A LOT!

They probably talk too much.

A quiet environment makes them uncomfortable and restless so they fill it with chatter.  

These 2 handsome gents are not at all like the 3 pictured above.

These guys like peace and quiet.

They're content with L-O-N-G  gaps of silence and tranquility.

They don't feel the need to give a play by play of ALL the day's events, who said what to whom, or what they think they might want to eat for lunch tomorrow.  

We're not sure about this little guy.  He could go either way.  If he could talk right now he'd tell you that he's figured out how to climb the stairs, that his mom rocks and is the coolest ever, but that he wishes his dad would stop treating him like a circus monkey.  Babies are not to be flipped and tossed about willy nilly.  Their faces are to be kissed and not used as places to stick green star fruit snacks on.  I'm sure that's what he'd say.  If he could talk.

Creature of Habit

Is it just me?  Am I the only one?  

Anyone out there in the territory called Utah having troubles dialing the phone lately?

Do I have problems with my short term memory processor?  Am I gumped?

As of the first of March, we now have to dial 801 before we dial any local phone number.  Even if it's to our neighbor.  Or our husband's cell phone.  Or our homemade vanilla vodka supplier (who might live kitty corner to us).  ANY call we make.  Apparently Utah is bustin' at the seams and there are no numbers left.  Dang population explosion!

This might seem like a trivial thing, but I have yet to remember to add the required area code on my own. Ever single time I've dialed the phone for the past week, I have to wait for the prompt from the pleasant automated lady to remind me.  I cain't remember!  I just cain't!  

I had to make a couple dozen phone calls for my church calling this afternoon.  I don't think I remembered to dial the area code on a single one.  Not one.  I probably shouldn't be cursin' while makin' calls for my church assignment but I was.  It doesn't help that I have to dial *82 to unblock our phone number.  Then dial the area code.  Then dial the phone number.  A lot to process for a simple girl like myself.

So I ask, is anyone out there experiencing the same dilemma?  How many times will I have to redial before it sticks?

A Boy in Motion

Brittan ran his 100th mile on Monday. The first child at his elementary school to do it. 100 miles! That's like running from Farmington to Provo and back.   Or from Farmington to Logan and back.  Or 400 laps around the track.  You get the idea.

I like to call this picture "slicky boy".  All slicked down and ready for school.  

(Yes, that is snow on the ground.  Another dusting of it this morning.  We're all ready for the end of winter and the warmish welcome of spring. My hands ache from the anticipation of getting in the soil and planting.  Can't wait!) 

For Your Tasting Pleasure

I'm no Barefoot Contessa, but I love her recipes and pine to be her neighbor.  Have you seen her herb garden?!  And she, according to her show, is always inviting people over to partake of her culinary splendor.  Neighbors, friends, and such.  I'd love to sit at her table and laugh at her sauteed tales and Jeffrey's intellectual stories.  Yes, I'd love to be her neighbor and occasionally "drop in" to borrow a cup of sugar right around lunch time...

I've been needing to add to my arsenal of recipes lately.  I have many tried and trues but after almost 16 years of marriage,  I feel like I am fixing a lot of the same things over and over again.  

My source?  www.foodnetwork.com.  I love the Food Network.  It fills most of my TV viewing time.  Alton Brown is a crack up.  Paula Deen - I'd love a bosomy hug from her.  Guy Fieri makes me want to jump in a convertible and hit the road in search of hidden restaurant gems.  I could definitely hang with Rachel Ray (the perky one), Bobby Flay (the cocky one), and Giada De Laurentiis (the pretty one).  Oh, and that lovable, orange croc wearin' good guy, Mario Batali!

But Ina Garten.  She may be my favorite.  A lady who is laid back, crafty in the kitchen, and always making favorites for her Jeffrey.  She's not afraid to proudly display years of gourmet genius...sporting it generously around her waist.  She makes everything sound good, look even better, and simplifies it enough that her fans can attempt it in their own homes.  I love her.  

Try this recipe.  It's from Ina.  You must follow the recipe exactly.  Don't skip the unusual ingredients you may not have in your cupboards or refrigerator.  Plan ahead.  Get all the ingredients.  Yes, the basil needs to be fresh.  Yes, you NEED the kalamata olives.  The recipe needs their robust flavor.  And definitely get the capers.  

This recipe will smack you in the face with flavor.  My kids loved this.  I doubled it for our family of 6.  Please try it!

Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

1/2 pound spiral pasta

Kosher salt

Olive oil

1 pound ripe tomatoes, medium-diced

3/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and diced

1 pound mozzarella, medium diced (it calls for fresh mozzarella)

6 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped

For the dressing:

5 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained

2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar

6 Tbsp. olive oil

1 garlic clove, smashed

1 tsp. capers, drained

2 tsp. kosher salt

3/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 c. freshly grated Parmesan

1 c. packed basil leaves, julienned

Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water with a splash of olive oil to keep it from sticking. Boil for 12 minutes, or according to the directions on the package.  Drain well and allow to cool. Place the pasta in a bowl and add the tomatoes, olives, mozzarella, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

For the dressing, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, vinegar, olive oil, garlic, capers, salt and pepper in a food processor until almost smooth.

Pour the dressing over the pasta, sprinkle with Parmesan and basil, and toss well.

Lows and Highs

Ugh!  I am now going on day 11 of being sick.  And I mean sick.  Congestion, achy bones, cough, irritability to the core.  I am on my 3rd box of Kleenex tissues and nth roll of T.P. trying to get some air in through my sinuses.  I am sick of being sick.

Kennedy pointed out today that I haven't updated my gratitude list in quite some time.  That's because I have had a crappy attitude lately while my body is retaliating against whatever flu bug is attacking me.  I've been glum.  I've been cabin fevered.  I've been anything but angelic to those within close proximity.  I guess I haven't been grateful as of late and have been having a major pity party.  What a big baby am I.

So, I thought I would try and muster up some positive reflecting so that the past week and a half has some worth.  Something of more value than simply giving me a raw tender nose and a mentally cloudy forecast.

Low:  I have the flu, Jeff has had ear infections in both ears, Britt has had a cough for 2 weeks, Shaw has had his second round of croup and an ear infection, Taiden has complained of a sore throat.

High:  Kennedy is not sick.  The rest of us will recover and live.  

Low:  Britt's persistent cough and red, red eyes.

High:  Britt told Jeff, "Dad, I think I need one of those prayers".  We knew to interpret this as a Priesthood blessing.  I am grateful I have a son who will ask and a husband who is worthy.

Low:  I have not been able to do any training for the race I will run in June.

High:  I went ahead and bought a pair of running shoes.  I've been visualizing successfully completing my legs of the relay race.  Without puking or passing out.

Low:   I have spent the majority of my time on the couch with juice at my side, Kleenex littering my surroundings and getting very sick of daytime TV.

High:  I have had to force myself outside for a daily walk to hold my place as a contender in the Gregson family Working Our Masses Off competition.  The sunshine has done me good and fresh air always provides a perk me up. 

Low:  Trying to cook.

High:  My mom-in-law brought us dinner Friday night.  My parents brought us homemade bran muffins and a ton of fresh fruit.  My dad can sure make a pretty fruit display.  

Low:  I can't taste a thing!  Not anything!  When my sinuses get congested like this it must put pressure on my olfactory bulb (for smell) and I can't taste a cotton pickin' thing.  The kids love to try and find something I can taste.  Peanut butter?  Nope.  Medicine?  Nada. Horseradish straight from the jar?  Negatory.  

High:  I've lost another 2 lbs.  5.5 lbs. lost since Feb. 1.  It's no fun to consume calories when everything tastes like, um, nothing.

Low:  I've been telling Jeff I need to go somewhere.  Anywhere.  Then I did a post on Tuesday about my testimony of Disneyland.  The self pity party came into full swing by then.  Although I was the only one to attend and had to act as host, guest, and designated driver.

High:  Out of the blue, my soul sister, equally fanatical Disney freak, and spunky friend called me on Friday to invite me on a Girls' Weekend Getaway in April.  To Disneyland, people!  No kids.  Ladies only.  No husbands.  Solely females.  She and her sisters and mom are adopting me for the weekend and including me in their fun.  Needless to say, I can't wait!  

Amen!

Everything's amazing and nobody's happy

click to watch

D.A.

While driving with a friend the other week, she mentioned that she finally thinks it's time for her family to take a vacation to Disneyland.  Her kids are 11 and 7.  In my most humble opinion, she is LONG OVERDUE.  But that is not for me to say. ;(

If you know anything about me, you know that you DO NOT open up a topic like Disneyland (or Disney World or a Disney Cruise or Euro Disney) without planning on having me give a very lengthy, enthusiastic, hyper, emotionally charged discourse on all things Disney.  I am a Disneyland fanatic.  That is no exaggeration.  Ask my husband.  Ask my kids.  They will concur.

It's probably because I was born in Southern California.  Disneyland is part of my heritage.  I have so many fond memories of that bless-ed theme park.  It was a frequent event that usually involved cousins.  Julie Beck and I would run from ride to ride.  I even remember, way back in the day, when we had to use the ticket books.  "E" tickets were the coveted prize.  They were the roller coasters.  You used those tickets wisely, lest you waste a chance at an opportunity for an adrenaline thrill.

So, I proceeded to speak at a very fast pace to my friend.  I could tell by the look in her eyes that she was trying to keep up with all the Mickey rhetoric that was flying out of my mouth.  I felt a great need to convey the urgency that yes, she must go now (go home and pack your things) and that her kids can't miss out any longer.  My mind was whirling faster than I could speak.  I was literally out of breath.  I wondered if my watery eyes were freaking her out a little.  Now I worry that she won't want to take her kids to my belove-ed Disneyland at all because, heaven forbid, they become a coo-coo like me.  I have a problem.

After going on a Disney themed vacation for 5 years straight with our kids, and now in my 2nd year dry spell, I'm having some painful withdrawls.  Seriously.

Which got me to thinking.  How can I channel all of my positive, creative, over abundance of knowledge about that simply magical place into some sort of action or cause? I'd love to be an Imagineer but I should probably only focus on one dream at a time. Jeff had a solution: become a Disney Advocate.  Advocate?  If advocate is defined as one who promotes, defends, supports, upholds, or pleads the cause of, then yes that would be a good title for me to scribble on my forehead.

Planning a trip with the fam to Anaheim?  Call me.  Need to know the best place to stay and how to get to and from the park?  Call me.  Want to order the best item on the menu at the Blue Bayou in Pirates of the Caribbean (yes, you have to eat there).  Call me.  Shows to see, hidden treasures, places to explore, trivial fluff.  I've got it all.  CALL ME!  I also am willing to have a sit down talk with hedging husbands who need help over the fence.  

And it's all yours for free.

I just ask that you eat a Sparkling Volcano in my honor. 

New Look, Same Blog

Yes, you're in the right spot.  

Yes, this is the Gregson family blog.

Yes, I felt it was time for a blog makeover.

No, Jeff wouldn't let me spend any money on a professional looking design.  I'm stuck with my limited abilities.

Yes, Rita was my inspiration for completely renaming it.  If she can, why can't I?

Yes, I came up with the blog title and description.  It's how I feel.   

Yes, I made the header.  Jeff colored the picture for me.  He also realizes that coloring outside the lines is OK.  In fact, he's been trying for years to get me to understand that.  I'm a slow learner.

Hodgepodge: Part 2

This week I will officially embark upon a creative adventure unlike any I have attempted before. It's top secret so no I can't tell you. But it's gonna be good. A close friend coaxed me onto a path of immense possibilities and I can't wait to see where it leads us. This voyage will probably stretch our talents until we want to cry, but in our mind's eye the end results will be worth every single agonizing step.  She also assured me that we'll no longer have mortgage payments and she mentioned something about being on Oprah. ;D  Wishful thinking but it's always nice to dream. Even as an adult.

I signed Britt for the after school dodgeball club. This is a utopia for 1 - 3 graders who have excess energy and desire the dodge, dive, and roll around on the ground. When he came home the first week beet red, drenched in sweat, and with a contagious smile on his face, I asked him what he liked most about it. He paused, contemplating my reaction, and slyly announced, "I liked it because I hit this really mean gill (girl) in the head with the ball and it was OK to do it. It's part of the game!" As any mother would do with her impressionable child, I gave him the whole talk about how it's never good to take our frustrations out physically, that we just need to walk away, blah, blah, blah. After I finished he looked at me seriously and said, "Yeah, but mom it felt really good to hit her with the [soft, squishy] ball. She's REALLY mean". He probably has a point. I can think of a hand full of mean people I'd like to have in a dodgeball ring

Son, numero tres, is now pulling himself up to a standing position.  Don't want to talk about it. Just look at the picture.  Sorry if the photo is a bit blurry.  I was having a melt down behind the camera.

Taider Bug is a faithful BYU fan.  Most of his school papers come home looking like this.  He's not in your face about the fact that he thinks the Y rocks.  That's not his style.  He just quietly leaves his mark (i.e. block letters) wherever he can and patiently listens to other boisterous boys describe their disdain for his beloved Cougars.  Taiden can handle the adversarial taunting.  He's cool like that.  But he knows that BYU is THE university of Utah.  

Bad Genes

Which picture is your favorite? And by favorite I mean nightmare inducing and disturbing. Please vote.

Brittan

Shaw

Kristen

Taiden

Kennedy

Jeff

Wonder what the Gregson family is wasting their time on these days?  Playing on our iMac's Photo Booth.  Come on over.  We'd love to get a sick and twisted shot of you to add to our gallery.

Hodgepodge: Part 1

Jesse is doing very well.  The surgery was successful and he and his donor Celynn are getting stronger everyday.  Celynn will be going home today and Jesse may be released by Wednesday or Thursday.  Modern medicine is a-maz-ing.  Transplanting a needed organ from one person to another.  Truly incredible.  My nephew now has the chance to live a long, full life.  Celynn Merrill a hero.

Jeff has successfully completed Season 2 of LOST and is staying committed to his resolution. He has invested 36 hours to this feat.  We have no idea what is going on in the world because we hit the play button as soon as the kids' heads hit their pillows.  No more watching the evening news.  I will admit that I'm starting to worry a tad because much of his thinking is revolving around things he is viewing each night.  Shaw's new nickname is John Locke Jr. because of his resemblence to the bald guy on LOST.  I'm not sure if I'm OK with this because we're still unclear if Locke is coo-coo for Cocoa Puffs or just a misunderstood good guy.  Still waiting for more information.  Jeff also pointed out a line in a sacremental hymn we sang the other week that talked about "the others".  Finally, he can't wait for the opportunity to use his new found knowledge of all things LOST in his profession - in the form of therapeutic metaphors.  Season 3 will be started tonight.

Kennedy is in phase 2 of her braces. Poor kids.  

It looks like they're all inheriting my extreme

overbite and Jeff's crooked teeth. Her first phase was in 4th grade. She's so grown up now!

Happy Valentine's Day

Valentine's Decor

Don't you love when your sweetheart goes to the store 2 1/2 weeks before Valentine's Day and buys you the perfect card?  I do.  Love you, Jeff!

Jesse Bear

This is my nephew Jesse.  He is one of the most lovable 16 year olds out there. EVERYONE loves Jesse.  He's funny, sweet, mellow, and well, look at that handsome face.  He also loves babies.  Shaw gets a healthy dose of affection when Jesse Bear is around.

Tomorrow this guy goes in for surgery.  Major surgery.  In the form of getting a kidney transplant.  Yeah, major surgery.  We've all known for a long time that it would probably come down to this.  He was born with only one semi-functioning kidney.  As his body has grown and matured, his kidney hasn't been able to keep up.  

He's been going to dialysis for the past 6 months.  He thinks it's kinda funny that he's been hangin' out with all the old people there.  

When asked if he's nervous about getting his new kidney (from his mom's sister) he says, "No, I'm just excited to feel good".  It's been hard to see him so sick.  It will be good to watch him get healthy again and get a little meat on those bones.

Please keep him in your prayers tomorrow.  He's been through so much these past several years.  

We love you, Jesse Bear!

Because I love you...

...and as a Cook who loves really good recipes and as a Foodie who loves really good food, I thought I should pass along this tasty tidbit.  Perfect for a Valentine's Day breakfast in bed or perhaps to score extra points with your kids in the mommy category.  However you choose to use it, it will make you look like a prize whisk-er in the kitchen.

Oh, by the way, I've included my famous syrup recipe.  This was handed down from my great aunt, LaVon.  If I someday get around to distributing it to the masses and easily earning a million dollars or so, you must promise to cease and desist from making it.  At that point, you'd have to drive to your local market and pick up a bottle with a pretty label containing my picture (the label would be pretty, not my picture).  Until that day, enjoy from the convenience of your home. ;D

Hearthstone Inn French Toast

• 6 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 c. baking mix (Bisquick)
• 2 Tbsp. sugar
• 1 1/2 c. milk
• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
• 1 loaf French bread, sliced ( I get mine at Costco...thickly sliced and perfect for this)
• vegetable oil
• Spiced butter (see below)
  

In a large bowl, blend together eggs, baking mix, sugar, milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth. Dip bread slices in batter to cover.  Cook bread slices in oil until brown.  Serve immediately with Spiced Butter and Kristen's Famous Syrup.

Spiced Butter

• 1/2 c. soft butter
• 3 Tbsp. brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp. allspice
• 1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg

Beat all ingredients together until fluffy.

Kristen's Famous Syrup (do not try this unless you're willing to break up with Mrs. Butterworth forever...there's no going back!)

• 1 cube butter
• 1 c. sugar
• 1/2 c. milk
• 1/4 tsp. soda
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 1 tsp. maple flavoring

Boil 2 - 3 minutes.  You may want to double or triple the recipe for a large family.  Store leftovers in the refrigerator and simply reheat in the microwave.  ***Warning:  This can be addicting!!  My father-in-law enjoys it on ice cream.  Heck, even a 2 x 4 would be palatable with my liquid gold.

Root Canal? What Root Canal?

I adore nitrous oxide. 

Wish I could bring a keg of it home.

We Shoot for the Stars 'Round These Here Parts

The start of the year is always a time for renewal. A time for reflection. A time to make resolutions to increase personal health, foster better relationships, improve humanity is some small way.

My beloved husband set a New Year's Resolution. Oh yes, he did. He set a goal for himself to watch seasons 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the TV series LOST so he can get caught up on all the buzz that revolves around this mysteriously addicting show.

Since it's debut, we've wanted to follow LOST. The problem lies with the fact that our weeknights are really busy. You know, all the stuff that we all do as multiple offspring families. We also don't have high tech gadgets like TiVo.  Just a TV and lack of time. I guess we could dust off our archaic VCR and try pushing record.

Last night, as we finished watching episode 22 of season 1, Jeff smiled and rather boastfully stated, "I've really done a good job sticking with my goal. Most people have given up on their resolutions by now." Sigh. Oh, sweetheart. You make me proud. Fighting the urge to stop watching these amazingly acted, filmed, and well told stories. You are a pillar of strength. ;D

I'll be picking up season 2 at the library today. It's the least I can do to support my hubby in this monumental endeavor. Like the post title states, "We shoot for the stars 'round these here parts". The world and all mankind will be a better place when we fully know the lives, trials, and happenings of Kate, Jack, Sawyer, Sayid, Hurley, John, Michael, Walt, Sun, Jin-Soo, Charlie, Claire, and Shannon. 

Poor Boone. May he rest in peace.

In Honor of the Month of Love...

Da Muncher

Paper is one of the basic food groups, right?

Mix-N-Match

Jeff

Kristen

Kennedy

Taiden

Brittan

Shaw

Evolution

Evolution:  (noun)  A gradual process in which something changes into a different 

and usually more complex or better form. 

I'm not quite sure when it started.  It happened so quickly - in an unsuspecting blink.  If I had to pinpoint a space in time (and I am one who likes concrete details) it would be August 25, 2008. That would be the day she started Jr. High.

I'm one who is usually content with change.  Change is good.  It can mean moving on to grander and more exciting things.  It can indicate progress and growth.  Change mixes things up, rattles us around for a minute or two, throws us back on our feet, and lets us realize our sometimes unrecognized abilities and strengths.  Yes, change is good.  But not when it comes to messin' with my kids.

Shaw gained his first sliver of a tooth this last week.  I moaned and groaned and asked, "Why, oh why?" and shook my fists over the horror of it all.  I so desperately want the sands of time to slow to a stroll rather than sprint to the finish with my little (former) gummer.  I truly don't want him to grow up.  The raw emotions that I feel about my little Muncher getting big are almost tangible.  The realization that this is probably my last time experiencing each of these stages makes me panic.  I can't miss a moment.  But, I know each phase brings with it pleasant change. Cute results.  Picture worthy events.  Quiet times of breathing in my sleeping baby's breath and committing moments to memory.  I know some of what lies ahead.  I've experienced it 3 times already.

But Kennedy is a different story.  She is our trail blazer.  Our lone guide into the world of teenage-dom.  She is the first of our children to live in the realm of hormones and zits, hearing bad language in the hallways, and dependence on electronic gadgets.  Unlucky for her, her parents have only approved email and iPods so far.

Just a short 8 months ago she was still within the safe and innocent elementary world.  How rough can an environment sprinkled with Hello Kitty shirts, Spiderman pencils, and light up shoes be?  How much evil can reside within a building that holds a smattering of children eating morning snacks, enjoying circle time, and learning to use an inside voice?  Hallelujah for hallways full of naivety!

Now, halfway through her 7th grade year, I clearly see the natural evolution of my little girl into a young woman.  Life tends to get heavier as we get older.  She is more solemn and lost in her thoughts.  She worries about having to change into gym clothes in the locker room.  She stresses about ornery teachers, getting plowed over in the hallway, and whether or not her shoes look good with her outfit.  In years past, when I'd see her at her kinder and gentler school she'd run down the hallway, arms stretched out wide yelling, "Mom!" not caring who heard or saw.  Now, if she sees me in her school on her territory, she gives me a simple wave and grin and goes on talking to her friends.  Gulp!   Change is good?

While Jr. High has roughened some of her edges (for survival purposes) and has encouraged her to utter those earth shattering words, "Dad, you're embarrassing me!" I know this must be. Changes for her and changes for me.  I've had my turn living these transformations. Now it's my turn to watch.  I don't know which is worse. 

At the end of the day I take comfort in seeing the glimpses of her younger self.  She still wants her dad to tuck her into bed each and every night.  She likes watching iCarly on Nickelodeon. She continues to have a favorite blanket, wants to rest her head on my shoulder, and sighs fondly when she sees a pretty Barbie doll.  The sparkle of her youth has turned into the shine of who she is becoming.  The change is beautiful.  She's still the academically gifted, compassionate, sweet, and friendly Kennedy who has her feet firmly planted in the gospel.  She still loves us and forgives us of our imperfect parenting (which she sees more keenly).  She's a good kid.  

She just rolls her eyes more often. 

    

Reasons I Love Living in the Beehive State

Skiing the greatest snow on earth one weekend...

...and hiking majestic red rock formations the next.

(sorry this is sideways - can't figure out how to flip it)

Vitamin D Deficiency

We're taking off today for the red lands of Utah's Dixie.  There is a definite need for filling our vitamin D reserves...we're all looking a wee bit pale and pasty these cold wintry days.  I'm not complaining.  I love the snow.  BUT, a quick getaway to St. George mid-January is always a welcome delight.

Our agenda will include meeting up with some fellow Farmingtonians, going to Zion's, enjoying running and jumping on the red rocks, and loving the blue skies minus any inversion.  I'm going to try and chip away at my 750+ page book and Jeff and I will try and catch up on the Lost t.v. series by watching seasons 1 and 2 on DVD.  Oh yeah, there will be swimming.  Lots and lots of swimming.

Hope everyone has a great weekend.  Go Steelers!   Happy MLK Day!  See you on Wednesday.

We Should've Named Him Hoover

Shaw is an expert of the pincher grasp.  He has the visual acuity of a hawk.  His arm's mobility goes in one direction and one direction only - to his mouth.  Hence, my floor is spic-n-span (and not because my older kids are good at domestic duties).  

The evidence is always all over his chin.  Remnants of the morning's breakfast (generally cereal of some sort).   Bits of breaded treasures from lunches.  Even finite specks of bygone meals or dusty bunnies are consumed by my little Dyson.   

He is patient.  The other day I watched as he worked intensely on picking up a minuscule single strand of thread.  He was calm.  He was focused.  He succeeded and lapped up his prize like it was a scrumptious morsel.  Sometimes his snacks are so small I can't even see what he is putting into his mouth.  He can, and he smacks his gummy gums and gives me a wrinkled nose smile and a snort.  Little Dirt Devil!

4th child.  Extra protein.  More defense against other lurking germs out there.  A developmental milestone all my other kids survived.  Though, I think my floor was kept cleaner back then.  Eureka!

Detox: Day 6

A muffin top should be eaten, not worn.

I come to you at the conclusion of Day 6 with a shining golden star on my forehead (I admit that I put it there myself).  The Detox is going fabulously and I'm feeling great.  Started out the day by running at the gym.  Snacked on lightly salted, dry roasted edamame throughout the day (fantastico!).  Feeling strong.  Staying focused.  Not a craving in sight.  Eating after dinner?  Forgetaboutit!  Is it all those positive vibes you're sending me?  Oh, and I lost a solid 2.5  lbs. in 5 days.  Hazzah!

Sew Amazing

A Cook and a Baker am I.  A Seamstress I am not.  However, I appreciate the art of connecting fabrics.  I admire this talent from afar - in those around me.  I have sister-in-laws who sew.  I have friends who sew.  I have a mother-in-law who is very good at using a needle and thread.  I do not sew nor do I anticipate this talent ever being in my repertoire.  My patience and attention span will not sustain such a task. However, through the years I have enjoyed the generosity of those mentioned above.  Scout patches sewn on Taiden's shirt by Patricia.  Baby blankets given by Shaunie and Carene. Numerous costumes and dresses provided by Ann.  And the latest:

A new bag sewn by a friend, Amy.  I didn't know what big plans were in store for this little tote of cuteness, but I've decided that it will house the much needed paper pants for my 8 month old. I've never had a cute diaper bag.  I've always just settled for the freebies that the hospital hands out as gratitude for spending a lot of money during your stay with them.  Finally, child #4 has a respectable place for his under thingies.  Did I mention that it's corduroy?  Thanks, Amy!  

May I Take Your Order?

Grandpas entertain.  That's part of their job description.  On this particular evening (honoring G'ma Ehman's birthday at the Mandarin) G'pa wrote the order on the kids' hands so we could remember it all.  Almond Chicken.  Singapore Noodles.   5 Taste Shrimp and Orange Peel Beef.  Several other favorites recorded on their paws.  Necessary?  No.  Memorable?  Absolutely.

Confessional: Detox Day 1

It's time.  I've known that it was coming and that it was inevitable.  But today is the first step towards recovery and conquering my addiction.  My vice.  My plague.  I'm gonna whip this insatious craving once and for all.  It's not going to be pleasant or pretty.  In fact, it's going to be downright awful.  But it's time.  Now or never.  My drug of choice that I will no longer partake of on a daily basis?  

Sugar.

By sugar I mean sweets, treats, desserts, confectioneries, baked goods, candies, and the such. 

 I'm serious when I say that I have a problem.  A problem that usually involves headaches, (more) orneriness (than is typical), fidgeting, and obsessive longing when I try to go off of it. Can anyone out there relate?   Sugar truly is my fix and I need to break off with this unhealthy relationship.  January 7, 2009 is the day.  You will be my audience.  You will be my support. Please cheer me on or scold me swiftly in regards to my sugar sobriety.  I will keep you posted throughout the next 2 weeks- the first step in my cleanse.  No sweets.  Period.  No manipulating food categories to make it work towards my benefit either (i.e., "A graham cracker really isn't THAT sweet.  It's a cracker, right?")  Believe me, I know all the tricks!  This cleanse will also include not eating after dinner.  That's my deepest time of weakness.   That's when I start hearing gentle whispers coming from my kitchen cupboards beckoning me in to partake.  I. Will. Be. Strong. 

Once my detox is complete, I will return to an acceptable sugar amount (for me)... 1x/week.  I have found that this is the only way I can lose the excess tubbiness.  I've done it before and lost 25 pounds. Limiting my sugar AND no cupboard grazing after dinner.  Exercise is never a problem. I  love it thoroughly.  It's my addictive love affair with carbs that has put me where I am.

Thanks for being part of my  accountability team.   I promise there will be no fleshy pictures posted during my process.

I'm not nearly that open nor that cruel. 

Summer's Antonym

 Sunday walk on Lagoon Trail

Spaceman Taiden riding his board at Powder Mountain

Britt is officially a 2 planker

Real men eat their lunches in the back of the SUV

"I think I'm a famous skier for my age, mom" 

- Britt describing his successful maiden voyage on stix.  As always,

he attacked the task with intensity, speed, and a heavy dose of self confidence.

Auld Lang Syne

Farewell 2008.  You were a wonderful 365 days.  You taught us and blessed us immensely. Many tender memories were formed in your presence. You were a good season of time.  We hope your successor is equally as amiable.  Thank you and adieu!

Welcome 2009.  We hope you enjoy your stay.  With you, we anticipate many changes in our world, in our nation, and in our home.  Our hope for you is that goodness and mercy will prevail, simplicity and the basics will become socially in vogue, and that you might provide the opportunity for our not so little family to relocate to a home that doesn't require our 3 boys to share one room.  A basement would be lovely as well (if it's not too much to ask).  Put your feet up and get comfortable.  You'll be here for awhile.