2009 Christmas FAVs

So, this is the first year in a LONG time that we have stayed in Oregon for the WHOLE Christmas Break.  In fact, there are only 2 years of the 11 years we have been here that we’ve stayed in Oregon for the whole break. 

It’s felt pretty unusual, but uniquely different to stay home for the holidays.  We’ve found plenty excuses to stay in our jammies all day and play, play, play.

Here’s my favorites parts from Christmas Day:

1.  Seeing Trevor surprised.  Each year he gets older, the harder this becomes and the more I cherish it.

2.  Getting Matt’s hugs.  Matt gave the greatest hugs after each gift he opened.  From this kid, this means a lot.

3.  Feeling Jason’s childhood enthusiasm and joy.  He’s at the perfect age for Christmas morning.  Everything is excitement.  Everything is joy.

4.  Playing dolls with the Doll Queen.  We were seriously the best of friends, because we played dolls ALL day long.  She was so happy to have a playmate.

5.  Sunshine.  God gave the best gift of all: sunshine.  I had forgotten how the warm of the sun’s rays streaming through the windows just brightens my soul.  It was the ingredient I had been missing and it felt SO good.

I’ll post pictures later…looks like I’m off to put new toilet seats on the toities.  Lucky me.

Got My Badge Back

In Jason’s class, they get to wear “badges” for good behavior.  You can lose your badge if your behavior isn’t respectful, responsible, or safe.  For the first few months of school, a regular conversation occurred at our house regarding Jason’s keeping or losing of his badge.

A few days ago, Jenna made badges for Chad and I.  Chad’s said, “Dad” and mine said, “Mom.”  We wore our badges with pride.  She had sounded out the words herself.  Half to admit: sometime during the day, we both took off our badges and they were lost.  Nobody thought any more of them…not even Jenna.

Today Jenna was sorting through papers and found my badge.  She represented me with a “Mom, you get your badge back!”  (That last statement needs to be read with an air of surprise.)  You should note that Chad did not receive his badge back.  Poor Chad!

Four in a One and Two

Apparently, Matt was determined to set a record. Jason set one in losing 10 teeth by the time he was six and a half years old.

Matt’s record was losing 4 teeth in 1 month and 1 day.

Matt lost one of his teeth at his birthday party…eating pizza. What a surprise! Happy Birthday, Matt!

The Tooth Fairy has been awfully busy at our house. If you need a loan, find Matt or Jason.

Dear Santa:

Dear Santa:

No need to bring us toys this year.  We’ve found all the entertainment we need in the kitchen pantry.  Give us a few minutes on a media-free day in the kitchen and we’ll be able to whip up some magic.

Do you have any idea how many things Mom stores away in the pantry.  Seriously, this is good building stuff.  We made an amazing tower (and it didn’t fall until we pushed it).  The tower was actually a hiding spot (we hid something in the middle-can you tell?)

Love, Jason & Jenna

P.S. Mom made us write that we didn’t want toys…we really want them.  Really.  She’s just not sure if we NEED them. 

It May Drive Me Crazy

Jenna has a thing for boxes and bags.  I can appreciate her love for such things as I, too, appreciate a good box/bag.  However, her love for such things may lead to my undoing. Any unclaimed (or claimed!) box/bag is quickly taken into her care to be loaded with random items from around the house.  For example, leave a laundry basket empty and it quickly becomes Jenna’s property.  Today she loaded her backpack, a doll, some art work, a stick, and other toys into “her” laundry basket.

She was offended that I would think of emptying “her” basket.  That’s her stuff in “her keeping place.”  The trouble with “keeping places” is that they keep multiplying and spreading all over the house.  Ugh.  I guess is that is the price of creativity…we’ll have to run with it.

Goin’ All Utah on Me

Hello Little Blog.  It’s me.  Again.  Oh, wait.  You probably don’t know who I am, because I’ve been avoiding you for sometime.  Why?  Good question.  I’m sure I could come up with a thousand reasons…all good excuses…some of them worthy of an Emmy.  None of them worthy of the time it takes to type them out.  Past is past. 

This time last year the weather gave me plenty of reasons to blog.  When you are trapped in your house for 2 weeks, you long for an outside outlet.  The blog beckons to you.

This year, we had a week of COLD, dry weather followed by a week of 45 degree rain.  What extremes!  I guess it wasn’t enough to draw me to the blog.

I wish I had a picture to document this next story, but I don’t.  In our COLD weather week (yep, saw some 8 degrees in Oregon…What!?!), Trevor’s scout group was going outside to play football.  Attempting to be a “good” mother, I was introducing my child to some necessary cold weather equipment (thermo clothing, wool socks, “real” gloves (vs. the knit ones we typically wear), etc.).  He couldn’t believe that people would really wear such things.  He was appalled that I would expect him to wear such things.  Clearly, my son had never experienced “REAL” cold.  He accused me of (notice the quotes here:) “Goin’ all Utah on him.”  I assured him that I hadn’t hit the staypuff-marshmallow man attire from “The Christmas Story,” so he needed to just thank his lucky stars.  Finally, after some convincing from his Dad, he dressed in the warm gear.  I had to throw in a “You’ll thank us later” as he headed out the door.

They made it to the field and had played a few minutes when they were kicked off the field by the police.  Guess you can’t play on the field after dusk.  Oops!  The sad part of the story:  he wasn’t outside long enough to appreciate his warm gear.  Instead, I got a “See-I-told-you-I-didn’t-need-this stuff-Mom.”  Rats.

What We Did Yesterday…

Yesterday was an exciting day! We are in Utah for our niece’s wedding. Kaylie married LJ Sikahema yesterday in the Draper Utah Temple.

It was our first time inside the Draper Temple. It’s beautiful. The sealing ceremony was very special. Kaylie and LJ are just incredible people—individually and collectively. There are great things waiting for this couple.

The reception was held in Lehi, Utah. I have NEVER had such fun at a wedding reception. There was so much joy and life abounding. After the formal line, there was a small program. Throughout the night, there was LOTS of dancing that most of the guests participated in. It was a true CELEBRATION of this happy couple’s union. Here’s some pictures:

MSN.com

Here’s to Trying Something New

Ok, I’m trying something new.  I’m attempting to blog using Live Writer…Not sure how it all works, so this is just a trial.

I guess if it shows up on the blog…we’ll know it worked.

T-H-E...I can spell...

For preschool, we found a great music CD made by a Kindergarten teacher. She takes simple, familiar songs teaches children to spell sight words in the songs. I've seen the power of music in teaching children. I couldn't resist the "science experiment"--I wanted to see if the kids really learn how to spell sight words through these songs.

Jenna, ever the music/dance lover, really likes the songs. She was singing them in the car (without music). Here's what I heard her sing:

T-H-E, T-H-E, I can spell LOVE, T-H-E

Jason quickly corrected her. She misheard Jason and replaced the word "LOVE" with "Duh."

Looks like the Science Experiment might need a little more practice.

Or maybe Jenna inherited my ability to misunderstand music lyrics...

Survived.

I survived October. Not kidding. One of the toughest scheduling months of my life. The amount of juggling required was nothing short of ridiculous! Turning the page to November was a triumphant moment.

This last week held 2 days of teaching preschool, 2 dentist visits, 2 chiro visits, 2 days of helping at school, 6 soccer practices, 3 soccer games, 2 dance lessons, 1 Pack meeting, 1 scout activity, 1 RS meeting, a 10-year old birthday, a party for a 10-year old plus 8 friends (and all the prep that goes with that!), 1 singing practice for a song to be sung at an adoption conference), 1 dinner for VT (she just had a baby!), 1 "calgone take me away" date with Chad, 2 sessions of trick-or-treating (one at the Church for Trunk-or-Treat and the other in our neighborhood), oh, and 1 session of Stake Conference where I got a new calling to be in the Stake Primary Presidency.

Whoosh! What a week!

Crawling out of the Black Hole that I call "Busy-ness"

Wow. What a week! Call me a chicken running around with her head cut off...just in time for the Harvest Season.

Why is it sometimes that the hardest word in the English language starts with a "N" and ends with an "O?" Such a simple word...and yet sometimes so hard to say. I think I had better start saying it...at least a little more. It seems easier to say it when it's in duplicate: "No, no, don't touch that hot stove." "That's a 'no, no.'" See, simple.

Yet when the question is, "Unless you help with the book fair, we won't have it. What do you say?" You say "Sure," because you love books. You love kids to love books. You love the book fair and can't bare to see it disappear. You say, "Sure." You don't say, "No." If only you understood before you uttered it just the amount of weight that "sure" carries..."

Could you help with scouts...just one week?" "Could you help out so-and-so who is in need?" "Could you spare a few minutes to talk with someone...like your kids?" "Could you sub for so-and-so who is sick?" How can you say "No?"

My neighbor taught me a nice little gem: "Sorry, my plate is full." Maybe it will work?So, if you have found ways to avoid the black hole of "No"...let me know. I'm all ears...cuz that may be the only body part sticking out of the before mentioned black hole.

Why I Love Conference:

1. Ok, first...there's the spoken word. You can't beat it. It's amazing how some talks touch you to your very core. They give you the strength to be better than you were before the day began. It's truly nourishment to one's soul.

2. The music...sometimes I wonder if it's just me or if some songs awaken something deep within you. I love to hear the harmonies. The power of many voices to make one whole sound is mesmerizing to my brain. Some songs are just received as nice and pleasant. However, there are others that speak directly to my soul. Today when the Tab Choir sang "O Divine Redeemer," I didn't know if I was going to be able to recover. Words cannot express the emotions I felt in that song.

3. Mormon Holiday: We get to spend the WHOLE Sunday as a family...at home...in our PJs...getting spiritually fed...enjoying one anothers company...being creative. I love it. It's the stuff memories are made from. Here's some pictures from our day:

A Future in Sales??

Our school is selling cookie dough as a fundraiser. When Jason realized that the deadline was tomorrow, he felt the need to take action. Two weeks ago, he had goals of being the top seller. Procrastination took place and in the 11th hour, it was time to call the grandparents. They were generous and supportive, but he knew he needed to sell more. So, in his desperate hour, he knew just what to do...

In his backpack, there was a postcard with his "emergency numbers." Apparently, THIS was an emergency and he knew just who to call. Sure enough, his "emergency" people came through for him (what kind aunts and uncles!).

I have to admit: I was pretty impressed with Jason's independence in taking matters into his own hands and making phone calls (something his older brothers are NOT fond of doing). Matt came to Jason's aid and was his scribe. I did chuckle a bit as he read the flavors to his customers, sometimes mixing up the names (Chocolate Chunky [chocolate chunk], Mackerdoodle [snickerdoodle], etc.).

When one of his "customers" asked what he was selling cookie dough for, he replied, "To get prizes." Matt quickly put him on the straight course that they were selling to earn money for the school. (However, we were pretty sure Jason was just in it for the prizes.)

Watching all the action from his puzzle work, Trevor declared, "I don't ever want to be a salesman." I'd have to agree with him.

THIS Week!!!

This Week was HARD! I don't think I've had a week like this in a L-O-N-G time. Frankly, I don't know that I would eagerly attempt it again. I have been longing for Saturday afternoon to come, because that meant I could intact air again.

It wasn't a terrible week. Nothing bad happened. Just too many things to do. The guy at the circus who juggles...that was me! Not only did I feel like I was living in a circus, but was juggling this, that, and the other.

(This paragraph is going to be ugly, so read at your own risk. I'm really only writing it for posterity's sake.) Here's just a few of the schedules I juggled this week: 2 different soccer practices for 3 different kids, 3 soccer games (2 at the same time, 1 an hour later), 3 different trips for soccer pictures, Back-to-School night for 3 kids (where the school only thinks you should have sessions for 2 kids), bridal shower at MY house (clean the house and KEEP it clean, ha!), 3 sessions at the chiro, 2 lunch dates (ok, that was fun!), 1 Art Lit meeting, 1 Booster club meeting, 1 Dance class, 2 preschool classes, 4 exercise sessions, 2 boys to 2 different scout meetings, and a temple trip.

Ok, really not THAT bad, just busy. I felt that I became WAY too familiar with the dashboard of my van. Juggling was the hardest part. Next week will be "lighter." At least I didn't have to TEACH preschool this week. That might have put me in the Funny Farm.

The important part of this week was that WE SURVIVED...alive even.

Back in the Saddle

I don't have time for pictures today...that will have to wait.

I just wanted to say: The first week of school was great! I forgot the novelty of just one voice demanding "Mom." I forgot how much I can accomplish in a small amount of time when just one little voice is expanding the word "Mom" into several syllables.

Change is good. Schedules are good. New beginnings are good. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing like a summer to refreshen the soul, but September is good. You can't help but feel a bit gitty at the sight of new shoes, new school clothes, and fresh school supplies (My favorite part! I'm such a sucker for school supplies...especially when it comes in a box and has the word "crayola" on it.)

Blast from the Past

Sometimes you just have to be crazy. And sometimes you just have to be brave. While in Utah, I decided to try on my wedding dress. (It's at my mom's house.)

I was feeling confident. I knew I had lost some substantial weight in the past few years, but I knew I wasn't at my pre-wedding weight. Nonetheless, it was time to give it a go.Miracle of all miracles: I could zip it up. Mind you, I was zipped in there tight. One wrong move on behalf of my shoulder blades and things would have started popping. Luckily, the style of the dress (form fitted on top, not at the hips) allowed my "baby pouch" to fit in the dress. Gravity had definitely affected particular parts of my body that was clearly evident from the form-fitted top. BUT I got the thing on. Shallow breathes were sometimes needed...but I wore it...for about 20 minutes. Then, I heaved a sigh of relief (with a large intake of air) when I was finally unzipped.

The girls got in on the fun. Jenna was in seventh-heaven with all the fancy dresses. She was seriously giddy with excitement. K is wearing my prom dress (with Angie's veil). J is wearing my mom's wedding dress.

35 Years OLD

Well, that does it. I'm 35. Rounds to 40 and frankly, that stinks! However, "Birthday" to me means to do something out of the ordinary. So I did.

The morning began with an impromtu drag-the-kids-from-their-beds and go to breakfast. Yummy!

Then we went to the last day of swimming lessons. My birthday wish was that everyone would be happy with their swimming progression (and not worry if they passed or not). The kids complied.

Then, I got a bit crazy. We introduced Matt and Trevor to the show "Ace of Cakes." Of course, that inspired us to possibilities...SO for my birthday, we made a bunch of mini-cakes and let the kids go to town. We even purchased some fondant and gave it a go. As you can see from the picture, our cakes were pretty colorful. (It should be noted that the cakes were SO sweet that the kids actually turned down some of their piece.) When Chad got home, he even made his own cake. He just didn't make the picture.

Lastly, Chad took me to our favorite little soup place. It's called Fresh Thyme Soup Company. They make interesting soups. We tried the Chicken Peach Soup and the Watermelon/Canteloupe (cold) soup. I'm not a big soup lover, but these soups are truly divine. I feel like Remy on Ratatouille...savoring all of the flavors...your taste buds literally come alive. It's such a pleasant experience.

It was a unique day...that's all I could ask for.

Oh, just one more thing: I loved facebook on my birthday. What a great and simple way to wish people a Happy Birthday. It was fun to get all the emails. Good ole' facebook...always coming up with a brilliant idea or two.

What We Did on Our Second Trip to Utah This Summer

First, and most importantly, we got to see Nana and Tompa. They returned from their mission to Pennsylvania. The kids HADN'T hugged them for 20 months. We were spoiled that we got to "see" them and talk to them on the computer or cell phone.

Nana would hold "show-n-tells" when she would empty a box. The kids would gather around and she would show them things she found in PA. Often she would have a little trinket that she had brought just for them. This picture is of Jenna giving Nana hugs after a Show-n-Tell. Jenna, ever the hugger, couldn't get enough hugs from Nana and Tompa.

We had plenty of time to enjoy cousins on this trip. Dave had traveled with us from Oregon. We really enjoyed having him with us for the whole trip. He is a great kid. The boys really spending time with him. The Utah Smith cousins also came to spend lots of time with us.We made pie crustos with Nana. Give kids some dough and a rolling pin and they are happy for hours (well, at least the girls of this group were!).

We made a marionberry pie for Tompa for his birthday. We brought the marionberries from Oregon. I may be biased, but it was pretty yummy!

We thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Nana and Tompa. Tompa took the older boys golfing one day. He also helped Matt pass off lots of scout things (like fixing bikes--Tompa got REALLY good at that on his mission. He put the bikes together for the missionaries.).

One of our favorite things was the impromptu evening devotionals by Tompa. Each night, we would talk about things we did that day. Then Tompa would guide the boys in relating what we did to something in the scriptures. We had some great, thought-provoking discussions. I was amazed what my boys knew. Pretty cool.

Summer Survival

Hi. My Name is Julie. I think I have a problem. I think it might not be a bad problem, but some might disagree. I get a thrill out of "Summer Programs." I'm sure it's something my kids will tell their kids about (for good or for bad) when they are parents. I can hear them now, "Oh yeah, well, do you know what MY mom made us do every summer?"

Secretly, I have to admit that this summer's program has brought me joy. I don't know if it's the bright colors. Or maybe the feeling that we were getting things done. Or the fact that the older boys were so independent about doing it. Or that I felt we were well-rounded in the things we could accomplish.

Anyway, I borrowed the general idea from a friend (thanks Heidi!). Each day the kids (and Mom!) had things to work on that involved: MIND, BODY, SPIRIT, and HOME. We added to it a Morning Meeting that actually turned out to be my favorite part.

Vacations made it hard to keep steady on the program and got us out of the habit of Morning Meetings. However, tomorrow is Monday. A good day to start Morning Meetings again! AND we only have 2 weeks left until school.

Overall, it's been a successful program. It accomplished the goals we needed to achieve this summer (like keeping Mom's sanity and spending quality time with one another...).

I think it will rate as one of my favorite "Julie-Produced-Summer-Programs"--right up there with the year we did the "Hancock School of Hogwarts."

I guess this is what happens when a school teacher retires early...she fills her "need" to teach by instituting "learning programs" over the summer. Poor kids. Or maybe they're the lucky ones. Maybe. If you ask them, I suppose it would depend on the day.

A Shoe Time-Out

For FHE last Monday, we played soccer. The boys found their soccer cleats and we were down to serious business. Sissa joined the fun. She found her tennis shoes that we had bought a year ago (they were a size too big, but we got them for $2). It seems that this year they were a perfect fit.

Sis ran onto the field, while game was in play, to proclaim her joy to the boys. "Hey, Dad, don't my shoes look great with this skirt?"

She would play a little soccer and then would need a time-out. (see picture) We thought for a minute that she was "tying" her laces, but these shoes only had fake laces. Oh, no. She was taking time-outs to ADMIRE her shoes. Priorities, baby, priorities.

Mind you, although the new shoes brought out the fashion-ista in her, she was not afraid to push a boy or two to get to the ball.

Humility

Hello little blog that I have avoided.

Seems that we may become best friends for the next couple of days, at least.

I've eaten a big slice of humble pie and will probably be sitting (carefully) on my tail for the next couple of days.

Sometimes pride gets in the way. Sometimes I think (know!) I'm invincible. I should know better. I'm not invincible. I'm human. I make mistakes. I do too much. I should learn to listen to my body, because it's going to scream back eventually. Then, I'll be compelled, no forced, to be humble.

And that's where you find me. I CAN sit. I CAN crawl. Ask me to stand, and you may be waiting awhile. I CAN do it...eventually...with a bit of wincing. Ask me to walk and you'll see the little old lady within me bursting forth. Crawling is a much better option. (How sad is that!!!)

Lower back muscles are beautiful things. Something you don't truly appreciate until they don't work. Something you don't realize how much they DO until they won't work.

Looks like I'll have a couple days to bond with the computer--it may be the only thing I accomplish this week. Oh well.

The Hike to the T

(Note: this is a LONG one. It's really for posterity sake, so only read if you have nothing better to do...)

We had planned to return to Oregon on a Wednesday and finish out our vacation camping on the coast. Our Utah trip had been pretty power packed. So, we decided to forgo the camping trip and stay a little longer in Utah. We're glad we did as we got to spend Grandma's birthday with her.

With a little more time on our hands, we decided to do something memorable, something unique. We decided to hike to the T on the Tooele Mountain. It didn't look like to bad of a hike. In fact, Chad had done it in high school. (They had to run from the high school to the T...now that's a run!)

We parked in the canyon and proceeded to the purple Buffalo gate that led to “the T.” We had good hiking shoes on and 2 bottles of water. It was a perfect day for a hike (not too hot). As we reached the top of the first hill, we could see that the road divided into two paths. One led away from the mountain and was muddy. The other led up the mountain. We decided that UP was the right path.

Wow, was it a steep climb, but the kids did so well! Trevor really impressed me. He liked to be in the lead and has quite the endurance. The grasshoppers were jumping by the hundreds. They really have a grasshopper problem this year in the Tooele valley. Every step that you took, the grasshoppers were popping like popcorn on a hot stove. That really bothered Jenna, but she kept on going.

We reached a barbed wire fence. We could see a road on the other side of it (and the fence was broken by that road). However, we could also see a road up a hill that I thought led to “the T.” Despite Chad’s better judgment, he went along with me. I guess I was quite convincing that I could see a road that led straight across the mountain. I was sure of it. I remember seeing it from the valley.

After a steep, very grasshopper-invested climb, we indeed found the road that cut across the mountain. Unfortunately, we had found the end of it. It didn’t lead where we needed to go.

Then, a spot of brilliance appeared in my brain: “The shortest distance between two points is a straight line.” We could just walk across the mountain, through the little bushes to “the T.” Surely it couldn’t be that far away (mind you, I couldn’t see it). To Chad’s dismay, I started blazing a trail through the brush. He suggested we go back to the road by the fence. After about 30 yards of brush and grasshopper kisses, I relented. He was right. Forging a path across the mountain for my 4 kids didn’t seem like the brightest of ideas.

At this point, I started to see the many ways this “journey” could be likened to our journey here on earth. Sometimes the road of life is hard and challenging. Choosing the right path is important. Choosing the wrong path leads to repentance and extra work to get back to the right path. (Also, it should be noted that in hindsight, it was really quite shocking that we chose the WRONG path when the road first divided. Returning to the car, it was quite obvious which path we should have taken. We missed all the important signs. I think Satan likes to tempt us in this way. We want the “easy” path or he puts things in front of us to cloud our vision.)

Anyway, once we were on the right path, things went a little smoother. Until legs started to get tired and voices started to whine. They were tired. They were thirsty. When “the T” was in sight, it made the journey a little easier. We had to be careful with our water, because it could easily run out.

The negative comments were pouring out like running water. It was time to take action. We needed inspiration. We talked about the pioneers. Surely, their experience was much worse than ours. Can you imagine day after day after day of walking? I couldn’t resist humming a few bars of “Pioneer children sang as they walked and walked and walked…”

We were buoyed up for a little longer until legs started to give out. I even carried a particularly tired 6-year old for about 30 yards—just to give him a break. Amazing how that helped (him, not me!). A few more yards and the whining/complaining/murmuring crept back in. The negative comments and thoughts were back in full force. This time, I fought it with “the positives.” It was like a secret science experiment: if I make positive comments, will it weed out the negative ones? “Thank you Heavenly Father for the trees that give us shade and a relief from beating sun.” “I believe in you.” “You can do this.” “Remember the little engine…I think I can, I think I can.”

Then we had two stumbles, even a little bit of blood. I thought we were done for, but “the T” was so close. How could we give in then? We added a little bit of blood to our tears, dirt, sweat, and grasshopper kisses.
The thought then occurred to me. It wasn’t enough for my kids to know that I thought they could make it, they had to believe for THEMSELVES that they could do it. My comments changed to “You know you can do this.” “You are strong.” “Dig deep…you are NOT a quitter.” “YOU CAN DO HARD THINGS.”

Well, we made it to the end of the road. We were there. (Hallelujah!) The only thing that stood between us and “the T” was a steep incline of about 30 feet. Oops, didn’t know about this part! It was pretty steep – probably a 70 degree angle. Climbing it required hands and feet. Trevor (who, by the way, had NOT complained on this adventure) and Chad decided to head up to “the T.” We decided it was safer to congratulate the others on their success and let them rest. Taking them to “the T” wasn’t going to be safe.

Julie remained with the younger kids…there was a cliff by the resting spot that DIDN’T need a Hancock visiting it. After much jubilation at finally being able to rest, we found joy in throwing rocks off the cliff. After about 5 minutes, I turned around to see Jason heading up to “the T.” I reassured him that it wasn’t necessary to go to “the T,” that it wasn’t safe.

“Jas, you don’t have to do this. It’s ok. You accomplished a big goal. Stay here, buddy.”

“No, Mom. You don’t understand. I’ve GOT to do this.”

The boy who had struggled the most to get up the mountain had apparently set his goals high. He was going to SIT on the T. Off he went and I just smiled. He made it half way up when the previous party met him on the way down. I guess getting down was beyond challenging. It was hard and it was scary. Chad didn’t feel it was safe to take Jason up any further, because he wasn’t sure how he was going to get him down safely. (I think Jason is still bugged that he was only “almost” there.)

The journey back down from the T was quite pleasant. We talked, we laughed. Interesting how the positive comments were now flowing! We all knew we had accomplished something HARD. It felt great. We felt confident. Even the grasshoppers weren’t as annoying. Although the path was a bit challenging in some places, it was much easier given that we were on the RIGHT path.

Back at the van, we replentished our bodies with much needed water and applied some bandaids to wounds. We talked about what we had learned and how it felt to accomplish HARD things.
Then, Jason said, “When I’m a Dad, I’m going to make my kids climb to ‘the T’ and I’m not going to carry them. In fact, I hope I live in Tooele. I’ll make my kids hike to ‘the T’ EVERYDAY!”

To which Jenna replied, “Oh yeah, when I’m a Mom, I’m just going to stay in the car."

The Time Has Come...

If blogger will behave, I think I'll update my blog with pictures (since I'm a month (!) behind).

Here's what we've been up to.

A fun-filled week to Utah for 12 days:

First, we spent a couple of days with my sister and her family at the "Smith Hotel" (my parent's house while they are on their mission). We played, talked, went swimming, and made an excuse to eat at one of Chad's favorite Utah spots: Crown Burger.Then, we headed to Tooele to spend time with the Hancock-side of the family. The Pyros (Hancocks with a predisposition for fire) held a private firework show on the 3rd of July. We were glad to report there were no injuries, but a few scares when the fireworks visited the grass area. We had a good Hancock showing for the 5K the next day. Chad and Julie ran along with Steve, Zach, Jared, Pauline, Kim, Libby, and Luke (via stroller, of course). Some of us hobbled around with sore muscles for a couple of days...but that's the good kind of sore. We collected plenty of candy from the parade and then went to the church pavillion for a picnic. Grandma made her infamous potato salad. Chad was in heaven, potato salad heaven that is.

Next the Hancock families visited Lagoon. The kids (and Chad) really love this place. It was a different experience this year, because most of the kids can ride the big rides. Jenna was excited to be tall enough to ride "The Bat." Jason proved to be the most fearless. He rode Colassus twice! (Although we're not fully convinced that he loved it...I think he just endured it.) He did, however, LOVE Wicked (a ride that goes straight up and then straight down). Chad was thrilled to have a fearless riding partner.

One of our excuses for going to Utah in July was to be able to take our kids to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open House. This was a chance for the kids to see inside a temple and feel the Spirit there. Chad and I both remember attending the Jordan River Temple Open House when we were little. It made a profound impact in our memories. I thought it was interesting that this temple was only a few miles from the Jordan River Temple.

Most of the Hancock family was able to attend (minus those at school, at work, in CA, or in Oregon). We were able to sit in a sealing room together at the end of the tour. It was very special to look around the room at these people whom I adore and love. How grateful I am for the knowledge that families ARE forever! I had a greater resolve to live worthy to be with them in the hereafter. I also felt a longing for those of the family who weren't with us that day...I truly missed them.

Ok, this is going to be too long of a post...so I guess my July update is going to come in sections. Get ready---a story to go down in Hancock History (maybe folklore) is coming up next.

4 weeks ago!!!!!!!

I happened to see the superjuliegalaxy feed on another blog site. It said it was updated 4 weeks ago...4 WEEKS!!! Where has the time gone?????

I guess it's summer. My therapy sessions are provided by the sun, instead of the blog. I'll get back...just not ready today. It's 107 degrees outside and I just can't find the energy to update the past month. First I need to wrestle with my RS lesson for Sunday. It's going to take a bit. So, until then little blog...you'll have to wait.

Too Old

Jenna had a dance recital this past week. She REALLY enjoyed getting all "dolled" up for the dress rehearsal and performance. The girls were required to pull ALL their hair into a bun (bangs and all). They also had to wear a bit of makeup.

With her hair pulled back and make-up on, she looked...too grown up. The boys were a bit scared/alarmed when they saw her. Jason kept saying, "Jenna, you look freaky." We had a quick lesson about how to say nice things...even when you are in "shock." Jenna wasn't afraid to put the boys in their place when she declared, "Boys, I may look different, but I'm still beautiful." She felt beautiful and she wasn't going to let anyone convince her otherwise.

It was a lesson in being careful of what you say...even for me. I made the comment, "Wow, she doesn't even look like my child (with the makeup on)." So, on the performance night as we were about to start the "beautification process," Jenna mentioned that it was time for me to say "and she doesn't look my little child anymore."

Yes, there's a little pit in my stomach that is fearing the teenage years.

Scribbling: A serious issue

No one would claim the paper with the scribbling.

Jason declared, "It's Jenna's."

Jenna defiantly replied, "This is NOT mine. I DO NOT SCRIBBLE." Then, she proceeded to deck her brother.

Not one to usually react with physical malice (she prefers screaming...trust us, our ears know!), we knew one thing: Scribbling is a serious matter. Apparently, it's a sensitive issue. She ain't a scribbler. Don't mess with the girl and her art.

(Don't worry, Jason has no lasting marks. Jenna got the T.O. and a-talking-to. Another day...another chance to play referee for the Mom. That's what summers are all about, right?)

Funny Words

Three funny things:

1. Keeping Place: the "secret" drawer of the little bathroom stool where Jenna likes to keep her clothes that she likes. She often hides them in there at the end of the day, thinking that she can wear them the next day (and possibly the next day) and never put them in the dirty laundry.

2. Last month, the primary learned the song "How Firm a Foundation." Jenna couldn't stop singing it when she came home. She was doing all the actions that the chorister was doing, however, her words were a bit unique.

Jenna's words: How firm a foun-nation. We thanks from the Lord
Real words: How firm a foundation ye saints of the Lord

We tried to fix the words. She didn't buy it. Oh well.

3. Jason told me that Susie* (a girl in his class whose name has been changed) broke up with him. I asked what that meant. He said he didn't know. I asked if she was his girlfriend to which he replied yes. I said, "Do you kiss a girlfriend?" He said, "No, gross. I'm not kissing until I'm married." Then I asked about Jane* (another girl in his class whose name has been changed), who Jason really enjoys being around. He talks about her alot and they have even swapped phone numbers. I asked if she was his girlfriend to which he replied "Yes, but she hasn't broken up with me yet."

So, he's either a womanizer or a kid who has taken to heart that a "girlfriend" is just a girl who is your friend. Later, we learned that Susie* in all her kindergartenness had planned on marrying Jason, but had found someone new...thus, why she had to "break-up." Don't worry, they are still friends.

Summer Rain

When you live in the land of "Rain," you understand the difference between winter rain and summer rain. I have to admit, I like summer rain. (Not so fond of winter rain...it's gray, blah, and overdone in the northwest.)

Summer rain on the other hand, swoops in to cool off the earth. It smells refreshing. It usually comes in downpour spurts and then leaves just as suddenly. I love when you have spots of sunshine with the rain.

Yesterday, Jenna dressed in rain gear to play in the puddles. She couldn't get enough and the rain didn't disappoint. At one point her galoshes had several inches of water in them (from the rain and the puddle splashes). She walked with a "squelch" and a "sclurch."

Just when I thought the street was flooded, the rain stopped, and within minutes the puddles were gone.

Sometimes you just have to Wonder...

You never know what you are going to find when you check on the Hancock kids before you go to sleep. Case in point:

Jason has adopted this pillowcase (previous known as a "snuglie" from Matt's toddler days). It makes a great cape and is very soft (perfect for snuggling with). It's great to throw around and play with. HOWEVER, Jason adapted it as his own personal...straight jacket??!!?? This is how we found him sleeping one night. All wrapped up in the "snuglie" pillowcase.This is how we found Matt sleeping the other night. Doesn't he look...comfy? He was COMPLETELY sound asleep. To his defense, he had allergies and it was probably easier to breathe propped up. We were surprised he wasn't sore the next morning...who knows how long he had been in that position when we found him.

The Bad, the Ugly, and then the Heavenly Choirs of Angels Sing

This. This is bad. You know this is bad if you know what this is. "This" means your carpet doesn't get vacuumed until you can find this part (intact, of course). When your vacuum is, um, well, "dated," you have to go to MANY stores to find this special little part.

This. This is worse. "This" stinks...literally and figuratively. This means fried motor smell that lingers in house for days. This means wringing out clothes by hand (on a load you knew was a bit "loaded," but you proceeded anyway...even though the washer had been making terribly strange noises).
This. This is ugly. This is what happens when said washer dies and a new one isn't available for a week or more. We lovingly called it, "The Tower of TERROR."

Hallelujah! Can't you hear the heavenly choirs singing? The new washer is so quiet...it shouldn't be hard to hear the choirs. The Tower of Terror was demolished with amazing speed as this washer is bigger and more efficient. (AND it uses less water, less energy, less laundry detergent!!)

With the vacuum and washer breaking in the same week, we realized...we're spoiled. We really like modern conveniences. We're grateful.

How Cool Is That?

So, yet again...blog has been placed on the To Do Pile. I've got much to blog about, but not the time needed. Getting tired of this excuse? So am I. Oh well, I've come to realize that's just what life is about these days.

I did want to blog about one of those "How Cool is That?" moments.

A couple of weeks ago, I got to sit in a Stake Training Meeting with my sister. This was the first time that our worlds had collided in such a way. Up until a few years ago, we were in different stakes. Then, we were both serving in different auxillaries. With my recent change in callings, we are both serving as RSC's of our respective wards. However, she's over Enrichment and I'm over Education. I tease that I got the "easier" E-word.

I'd had a similiar experience of sitting with family in leadership training in our previous stake as my sister-in-law and I were both YWP of our wards. I think that Heavenly Father just knows how helpful it is for me to gleam from others' knowledge/experience.

I'm grateful to have family so close by. We're spoiled. It truly is a treat to bump into family at Stake functions. How cool is that?!?

What Has Kept Me Away?

Why so long from the old blog world? Well, there was the little issue of blogger vs. my pictures. Blogger just didn't want to attach them. It was just...frustrating, disappointing, maddening.

I think I was harboring ill wills. Just couldn't bring myself to vent all my thoughts to have them dissipate into thin cyber air....again and again.

OR MAYBE, I strayed from the old blog, because the SUN came out. You can feel the energy in the air as vitamin D soaks into our poor depraved opaque Northwest skin. Seriously, it's amazing. When the sun shines forth in the Northwest, we all attack the outdoors. The once gray lit streets are filled with bikers, walkers, joggers, yardworkers. The hibernation is over.

Memorial Weekend was to die for (I know, bad pun). Usually we have cold rain. This year, we had THREE glorious days of sunny 70 degree weather. Amazing. Perfect. We saw our neighbors again. Everyone was outside getting their yards beautiful. We worked on two major projects: spreading bark dust on the non-grass parts of our yard and making more garden boxes. The garden area turned from an eye sore to something a bit more respectable. It was a fun project that involved everyone in the family. (We learned that Sissa can "spread" with the best of them: bark dust or rocks.)

Growing up, I spent every Memorial Weekend in a little town called Antimony where my grandparents were buried. Every year, we'd gather as a family and rake the rocks around my grandparent's grave. (Yep, a cemetary without grass...the water bill was too high.) It did my soul well to have a rake in hand on Memorial Day. I thought of my grandparents and my extended family as I raked little pebbles, unforgiving clay (northwest dirt), and bark dust. Some day I'm going to have to show my kids these places...instead of just telling them the stories.

Pure Joy comes to a Screeching Halt

These pictures were taken yesterday. The day of the trampoline's arrival. It was joy, pure joy for all involved. (Just see the previous post.)

Then, comes Sunday, and the big talk about whether jumping on the trampoline fits under the requirements for "Sunday Observance." We pulled out the "For the Strength of Youth" booklet and had a meaty conversation. Tough, when the trampoline is new. The concensus was that sitting or laying on the tramp was ok. Oh, the temptation...it was like sending a recovering alcoholic into a bar. Torture. However, they found a new enjoyment for the trampoline...reading books on it can be fun, but awfully annoying if anyone should bounce. (Sis just couldn't help herself...she just didn't get why we weren't jumping.)

So, to all the trampoline jumping nations out there...I'm curious...does your trampoline rest on the Sabbath or is it an ok activity at your house. I'd love to hear your opinions! Thanks!

There You Be

There are just times in your life that give you a moment to pause and you realize "Oh, there you be."

One of those moments occurred when we purchased our first mini-van. A minivan means...1) you got kids or need a vehicle to haul things around (for me...that's kids), 2) a sudan just ain't gonna cut it anymore...not enough room, 3) there's a potential that you're going to be carrying around more things than you plan on (for me...that's "kid junk" and other carpooling kids), etc.

Another moment came today with the acquisition of a trampoline. We feel like a "true family" now. We own a minivan and trampoline. There we be. Simple as that.

That all being said. The trampoline might be one of our more brilliant purchases. The kids were thrilled. They helped Chad to build it. We had to run errands and when we returned, all the kids were racing into the house at a mad dash. I couldn't figure out what the rush was about...until I saw that they were all racing to the trampoline.

We had the most perfect weather today (read: no rain, not too hot, not too cold, sunshine). We ate dinner outside. The kids played and played and played on the trampoline. Chad and I attacked the weeds in the yard. Meanwhile, our kids made up games to play on the trampoline. For three hours, not once did I hear, "Can I play the __________(some electronical-based game)?" They played together as a group with NO fighting! They were imaginative. They were creative. It was a "real" childhood moment. It felt good. It felt great. It was a splendid day.

Ear Crystals

Learned something new this week. Of course, I had to learn it the hard way. Monday morning I woke up with my head swirling. It swirled me right back to the bed. Pretty scary. I've never had anything happen like this.

All Monday, I was useless. I finally figured out that if I didn't move my head I could get around. If I looked up or down, I was headed to the ground. I've taken for granted all the times that you need to look down...like to butter toast, to spit after brushing your teeth, etc. With the help of sweet friends, I was able to teach Art Lit and then was sent to bed to sleep. They didn't let me drive...probably a VERY good idea.

Today, I woke up still dizzy but nothing like yesterday. Today, I just had the feeling of getting off a rollercoaster...all day long. I went to the doctor...thinking I had a possible ear issue or a neck issue. The Doc thinks I have crystals loose in my inner ear. (Who knew that was even a possibility???) It's called Benign Positional Vertigo. It happens when teeny, tiny calcium deposits ("crystals") break off and repeatedly strike the fragile hair cells when the head moves. (Yeah, I borrowed that from the internet.)

All in all...it stinks. It's tough to be a mom when you can't take care of your kids. I really have a new appreciation for good health.

However, I'm ever so grateful for those who have some to my rescue (and my kids' rescue as well). Heaven has blessed me with many angels.

The Impossible Mother's Day Gift

I received many kind and generous gifts for Mother's Day. Candy bars instead of a plant was a relief to a girl who has no green thumb. Since May is my month of eating healthy (long story, but it's working...) My kids were MORE than excited to eat a portion of my chocolate. I was relieved to share my temptation.

The kids and Chad all gave me great cards (LOVE them! - the people and the cards). Matt make a cool plaque in scouts for me. Jason make a cool wall hanging. He was supposed to draw a picture of his mom and say things his mom likes. He said he chose to draw an alien instead (a pretty scary-looking alien). However, he neglected to inform the teacher of this. On the back of the alien picture, it says, "A picture of my Mom." If blogger will accept my picts this week, I'll try to add the picture for all's enjoyment.

Now we come to the impossible gift: I got an idea from a friend about the greatest Mother's Day gift. I requested it from my family. I knew it would stretch them and require much sacrifice on their part. I felt they were up to the challenge and that it would make the ultimate Mother's Day. I asked for a day with no fighting, no arguing, only speaking kindness to one another. (I know, big request.) Turns out...it was impossible. I think we've had more fighting (from the younger two) than we usually have in a day. Trev and Matt have done pretty well. Jas and Jen, well, you wouldn't believe the silly things they have been fighting about today. Neither one of them has been willing to back down...they're so head strong (can't imagine where they got that from!) So, I am making my own peace today. They fight, they have to leave the room. Simple as that.

Electronic-Guro vs. Electronic Idiot

That's "idiot" meant in the nicest of ways...especially since I'm referring to myself. I got a new cell phone for Mother's day. Our contract was up and we were looking forward to new phones.

My new phone is cool, but it's going to take some "studying" to figure everything out. Is it a good thing or a bad thing that it came with a DVD to explain how to use it. I guess that's better than a manual?? We'll see.

So, I handled over my old cell phone to Trevor (you can't call on it, but you can play the games, take picts, etc.) Within seconds (NO EXAGGERATION), he was doing things on my phone that I never knew were possible (AND I had the phone for TWO years!!). I think kids these days are just born with a 6th sense: electronic sense. Especially Trev, he just "gets" electronic things. Always has. He had a "love" for the computer at the ripe young age of 3 months. By 18 months, he could navigate his way around the computer and play computer games (meant for toddlers and preschoolers, of course). None of my other kids started that young. In fact, poor sissa, with all these brothers, she has never been let loose on the computer. She hasn't learned the "art" of the mouse and she turns 4 soon. (That could be another case of 1st child vs. 4th child, but who knows!)

Maybe I should bag the cell phone DVD and just let Trevor teach me how to use my new phone. Somehow I have the feeling that I would learn a lot...but at what cost? I think my cell phone would grow an attachment to Trevor (think he is its mamma) or that Trevor would become attached to my cell phone. Could be dangerous.

frustrating...

Ugh. I'm starting to think that blogger doesn't like me. Three different times I have typed up my post and attempted to attach pictures only to lose EVERYTHING!!!! (When it's happened 3 times in 2 weeks...I just can't handle it. All that time typing with nothing to show for it. Autosave my foot.)

Frustrating!!! I just don't get it! Anyone else having this trouble or am I all alone in my "blog trouble?" It's tempting me to bag the blog and be a sole blurbarian. Not for sure, but tempting.

Some Things You Can Always Count On

Sometimes it's just good to know that with all the variables in our daily lives that there are some constants. Take for instance, Jenna's shoes. It's just a given that IF (which is a big IF!) she is wearing shoes, they are going to be on the wrong feet. We've attempted to correct this issue countless times with countless creative ways...but to no avail. I've come to the conclusion that maybe she prefers them on the wrong feet. Surely this can't be comfortable??

AND then (I know I started a sentence with "And"--sorry grammar guros!) once I succumbed to the notion that shoes on the wrong feet are the norm, she started to put them on the right feet. I cried. Not tears of joy. You would think I would shout for joy that my "teachings" had finally sunken in. Instead, I cried knowing the innocence of "shoes on the wrong feet" are gone. My little girl is growing up. A new norm has been born.

Every now and then, I see the shoes on the wrong feet and I smile. Aw, the good old days when things were constant.

Wow...BEHIND

I'm just a little bit behind on my blogging. Is that a good sign or a bad sign? It has been a bit busy around here, but when isn't it. So, get ready, because here come my updates in all their glory.

Easter: A Day of Peace (and a little pestering...see previous post)

Today was a dream Sunday. The day seemed to last long. There was time for everything. Time for church. Time for naps. Time for family. Time for games. Time to read family scriptures. Time to bond with our children. Time to talk with grandparents. Time to read. Time to clean up. Time to discuss Jesus and gospel topics with our children.

Sundays don't usually happen this peacefully at our house. It truly felt like time was standing still. It was a beautiful day. I'm not sure why we received this blessing, but oh, it felt nice.

(We did have a little bit of pestering of siblings, but when don't we?? However, a friend at church happened to mention a good remedy for the pesterer of siblings...make them do jumping jacks. Usually the pesterer just needs some exercise or something to do. Jumping Jacks get the body moving and the blood flowing. And around these parts, the jumper can't help but laugh while jumping. It seems to turn their mood upside down (from a pesterer to a delightful child). Go figure!)

Here's our picture from Saturday's egg hunt: