The Peterson Pickle Jar

What we're up to...

2012-01-26T08:06:00.000-08:00

Our Stake (church) is having their "Big Show" this spring (yes, it's only been 2.5 years instead of 3 since our last in the fall of 2009). This means it's show time in the Peterson household. I've been busy helping with auditions and preparation for our first rehearsals which begin tonight. The show is a family affair with Kelly on single dad duty and the girls taking on the responsibility of getting homework finished and getting to bed at a good time.

Everyone is doing well, including myself--I had to make sure this time around didn't result in my house and family running on "fly-by-the-seat-of-the-pants" mode. I'm trying to get dishes done every night and clutter managed along with frequent laundry loads. I've had a shift recently wherein I am not willing to sacrifice so much for the cause anymore. I'm normally an all or nothing gal, but now, I'm working on tempering that so that I can participate and not feel like my family has to go without a wife and mother for six weeks. A lot of it has to do with my managing time wisely, and that has been a challenge for me for a while. We'll see how it goes.

Germs

2012-01-18T21:28:00.000-08:00

Germs...We've got 'em, and we don't want 'em! The most news worthy information we have in our household this time is that we're doing pretty good for a bunch of sick people. Kelly and I are marginally sinus impaired, but doing okay. Poor Heather was home on Friday with stomach cramps and the need for facilities nearby. Apparently that was going around her school, and several kids had had accidents at school (how embarrassing for middle schoolers, poor dears). Fortunately she didn't miss much at school and is back this week. Jenna has been home this week with a compacted head cold, and she is miserable. She's still smiling, but not up and dancing. I'm hoping that the germs decide to vacate and plague elsewhere, and soon.

We're planning for our big church show which starts rehearsing this week, OCMCO rehearsals begin tomorrow and soccer is coming up. We're taking our Emergen-C and trying to get enough rest. Not a very exciting post, but sometimes germs happens when you've made other plans.

Getting Published

2012-01-15T21:48:00.000-08:00

Have you ever known that something was going to happen, but you didn't want to share it until it actually happened for fear that it might not? That's what happened with this story. In October, I saw that one of my favorite magazines, Seeing The Everyday, posted a call for submissions. The subject was childhood family dinner time. Oh how I wished I had something to write for them. This magazine embodies things I feel deeply about--seeing the eternal perspective and importance in our day-to-day living and enjoying our families and relationships. Unfortunately, my childhood dinner table was not really the kind that one would read about in an uplifting, growth-promoting magazine like this. Kelly, on the other hand, had just the kind of family dinner time experiences that I thought were worth sharing, so I took a chance and wrote something to send in.

The first reply I got let me know that they were interested in my story, but they wanted to know more about my family dinner experiences. I had hinted a little about my experiences, but hadn't written much due to the positive and uplifting nature of the stories in their publication. I added a few things, told them why I hadn't written a lot about my family, and sent it off.

The second reply thanked me for my additions, thanked me for being cautious about subject matter, and asked me for more. How did my experiences differ from my husband's? How did our experiences effect each of us, and how did they shape what we're doing now. The magazine was very, very polite and understanding that what they were asking me to talk about may be too upsetting to delve into. It wasn't really, and since they wanted to know, I went there. My revision was sent off, with another that followed blending the two experiences together a little more cohesively.

The third reply came by telephone just before Thanksgiving. They thanked me for working on the story, for sharing a story that will benefit so many, and they told me they wanted to print my piece in the winter issue.

When the actual magazine arrived this week, it was unbelievable. I write a lot about my experiences in life, but usually I do it in my journal or in emails to my family or friends. I never thought my first attempt at writing for a magazine would be to share something like dinner time experiences. But what I have learned over the years, and what this magazine promotes, is that all of our experiences, no matter how small, are experiences that shape us. Until I was encouraged to dig a little, I hadn't seen the dinner table being as significant as it is.

I worry a little because my dad will no doubt read the story. He is one of my biggest supporters, but I worry that he will be sad knowing that I don't have great memories of our family meals together. He is also someone who always strived to do the best he could for his family, especially his daughters, even in the face of difficult circumstances. He and my mom both did the best that they knew how to do, and the positive in the mix is that I have been able to learn from both good and bad experiences in my childhood. Kelly's family life wasn't perfect either, and from both of our experiences we are trying to build a good foundation for our girls which is what really matters.

Thanks to everyone who has congratulated and/or jumped with joy alongside me. This was really fun, and I hope it will be the first of more published writing to come.

Skating

2012-01-13T20:40:00.000-08:00

Jenna got to hang out with friends from school on Friday when our local skating rink hosted a school skate party. She wasn't sure if she'd have the skills, but she did really well and ended up having a blast.

Animal Cell Model

2012-01-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

It's a good thing that Heather and Kelly worked on Heather's cell model Wednesday night because by Thursday afternoon, Heather had the stomach flu. Kelly ended up finishing the painting, and I delivered it to school on Friday. Daddy and Daughter really did a nice job on the project.

In A Word - Year 3

2012-01-12T13:44:00.000-08:00

When I posted my Top 5 at the end of December, I had completely forgotten about the In A Word idea I'd gotten from the girls at BLOOM. My friend posted her word yesterday and I thought, "Hey! I've done that and I totally forgot!" In January of 2010 my inaugural In A Word post was written followed in January of 2011 by In A Word Year 2. As I think back, the words "mindful" and "focus" were words that reflected my longing for improvement in the midst of a serious lack of energy. The more severe effects of Vitamin D deficiency I didn't know I had began in September just prior to the first In A Word post. I remember wanting so badly to care and figure out what was up with me. Being "mindful" helped me be aware of the most important things in my life and hang on to staying engaged with those things. The following year I knew I needed to be more active, but still had no energy. I thought that "focus" on just one thing at a time might be doable. Thank goodness my doctor's appointment in April of 2011 uncovered the depression that had been a symptom of severe Vitamin D deficiency. By June, I was back. The rest of the "focus" year was spent examining all of the damage from the previous two years--a house in disorder, friendships I'd not paid attention to, a weight gain of nearly 40 pounds, and most of the previous years' habits of exercise and healthy eating gone.

Yesterday I was reminded about choosing a word for the year, and I want to keep that up. I have more energy and many things I need to catch up on, so the best word I could think of was a word that would embody putting things into action. I feel like I've been gone for two years and have come back to find another person in my place. Who is this overweight, disorganized couch potato? I don't know, but I've got some work to do. I know what I need to do; I need to move and get it done. I want to put into practice the successful routines I know to be beneficial to my physical, spiritual and emotional health. Willpower is simply the desire to change. I have a lot to change, but I've done it before, so I know I can do it again...with a little practice.

Here we go 2012!

Monday/Tuesday & Wed Sunrise

2012-01-11T08:55:00.000-08:00

The Christmas decorations are finally packed up, and the house looks bare. I need to pull out my winter decor and spruce things up. There is so much organizing and purging to do, so I'm on to that next.

Yesterday, I tried a new bakery near us called Pinky's. Below is a picture of the Charlie Brown cupcake I bought (and ate) with peanut butter/fudge frosting. I also purchased a Dark Lord, chocolate with strawberry filling and strawberry cream frosting. Unfortunately, the Dark Lord went first before the camera was considered.

My canvass of Marta's artwork arrived also. I'm excited to get some ribbon for it and hang it next year. Last night, Kelly took Heather shopping for clay so that they could work on her model of an animal cell. They did a nice job. More pics later. And this morning, the sunrise was glorious. As you know, I'm a sunset gal and not a morning person. But Heather asked me to open her blinds and turn the hall light on before turning their bright bedroom light on. In doing so this morning, my car windows reflected a beautiful pinky/orange color. I was so happy to go out and see the sunrise for myself. I am always so grateful for these beautiful, peaceful moments that remind me that we have a Father in Heaven who lives and loves us.

Billboard Chart

2012-01-07T22:36:00.000-08:00

Our choir's CD hit #1 on Billboard's classical chart this week. Wowza.

"We are thrilled to announce the our album, "Messiah in America," has debuted at #1 on Billboard's Traditonal Classical charts. Also, #7 Classical (overall) and #50 on Independently produced albums (all genres.) What a great way to tell the world about the beautiful events in the Book of Mormon!!"

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Disneyland Afternoon

2012-01-05T21:17:00.001-08:00

No choir today for Heather or I, so we took advantage of the early release from school and headed to Disneyland for the afternoon. We forgot until we got there that many schools are still on break. It was quite crowded for we spoiled pass holders. We explored Tom Sawyer's Island, bought giant pickles, walked through Sleeping Beauty's Castle, a first for the girls, and hit a couple of rides that had shorter lines--Jungle Cruise, Pinnochio and Matterhorn were the only 5 - 15 minute waits. I enjoyed the girls' company and we fooled around with the Instagram App on my phone. We eventually decided to call it an afternoon and head home for dinner with Daddy, and we got a little treat on the way out of the park. The last photo will be recognizable to any Disney Channel's Wizards of Waverly Place fans.

Heather was star-struck and forgot to ask who won the family wizard tournament! This was also the first smile I'd seen from tired Jenna.

Success = ABC

2012-01-04T20:13:00.000-08:00

Our family had a great discussion based on the article in our church magazine titled, Living The Abundant Life (click on title for link). The essence of the article is using an ABC reminder to help us attain "a life filled with an abundance of success, goodness and blessings." My oldest was giving a presentation at her Young Women's meeting about setting and achieving goals in education, both school and music, last night, and we talked about how these ABC's apply to anything we are working on. The following are my thoughts after reading the article and discussing it with my family.

A = Attitude

This needs very little general explanation. For Heather, because she "hates school", she is only able to have a good attitude by focusing on the friends she goes to school with and a few of her fun teachers rather than focusing on the fact that school is pretty difficult for her and something she feels forced to do. If she has to go to school, she might as well enjoy her friends and the good fortune to get some great teachers now and then. Her personality allows her to be receptive to "looking on the bright side." Jenna is getting there.

B = Believe

In yourself, your goals and in being able to seek and find help whether secular or divine. Most of us are fortunate enough to have a great support system--family, friends, colleagues, etc.--and we can also pray for strength and help when needed. Heather knows from our reminders, and I often have to remind myself, not to listen to the voices that would tell us we are less than beautiful, intelligent, talented and worthy. We have to believe that and move forward.

C = Courage

We agreed that most goals that are worthwhile are hard. In fact, I'm still working on some that have seemed impossible. It takes courage to keep trying. If we don't have the courage to try, we might as well sit around and do nothing. My sweet girls each have their own issues with school right now, and we have a tenor of anxiety with school pretty much all the time. Sometimes there are tears, and sometimes I can read the stress through less visible manifestations. It breaks my heart because school can't be a walk in the park for them, but I am encouraged to use language that reminds my girls how strong they are as they work to overcome their challenges.

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.

~ Winston Churchill

We are loving the ABC reminder, and it pops into my head now with ease. It's good to remember what we're doing here as we navigate the day-to-day storms. Hope this is helpful to you too.

Look Up

2012-01-03T22:26:00.000-08:00

"Look Up" is the title of an article in the January issue of our church magazine, and I love it. The author discusses the difference between looking up to see how Heavenly Father sees us and looking sideways to see how others see us. I am so guilty of comparing even though I know it's a lethal pastime. Constant comparison causes such damage to our self-worth, and I totally know better. I guess it's one of the tendencies of the natural man that we need to work to overcome. I'm going to try this reminder on for size as I worry about what I'm not getting accomplished. Stopping to remind myself to look up could be just the ticket to steering myself back in the right direction. It will keep me from looking around and keep me focused on my own personal and spiritual progression.

Blogging is one area where I've recently read and heard many bloggers are discouraged. The focus on what one's blog should be when surrounded by the other beautiful, well-maintained blogs can be crazy making. It's a great example of the discouragement that happens when we look outward to define who we are or where we should be at a certain place in time. We need to know who we are and what we want to accomplish and move forward. Your blog is your own, and it should be what you want it to be. Our progression is also our own, and it should be compared to no one else's. That sounds easy, but it isn't; it takes constant nourishment to reassure and move forward. The blog example may seem silly, but I find it interesting that although I have a clearly defined purpose for my blog (family/personal journaling and publishing to book form), I have swooned at the other blogs with fantastically beautiful pictures, stunning home decor, highly talented authors and creators sharing pearls of wisdom on a range of topics, and much more. I have been guilty of peeking over sideways. We all do it. Homes, cars, furniture, talents, jobs, children, clothes, etc. Whatever or whomever it is you choose to compare to, stop it.

Stop looking around and start looking up.

Gathering Leaves

2012-01-02T22:22:00.000-08:00

Kelly was off today, the girls didn't have school, and we were being really lazy at home this afternoon when the Holbrooks called to tell us they were raking leaves. The girls and I dashed over to play, and Hannah and Sarah had quite the pile of leaves already raked! My girls joined in helping bring piles from other areas of the park, and then they all set out to enjoy the humongous leaf pile. These are only a few of the nearly 200 photos I shot of their sillies. What a great afternoon! Thank you Sarah and Hannah!

New Year's Eve

2011-12-31T20:30:00.000-08:00

The fog settled in early as we prepared for our New Year's Eve festivities. Kelly and the girls made salsa, and our friends Trish and Smith joined us for games. Heather's friend Grace came to hang out too. We snacked, played board games and laughed a ton. All the girls participated in at least one dance on XBox Kinect, but the little dudes kept going like Energizer bunnies! As the ball dropped, we counted down, popped our poppers and toasted with our traditiona. Happy New Year!!!

Top 5's

2011-12-30T14:05:00.000-08:00

Top 5 -- Things I Did Right in 2011

1. Had more Family Night lessons

2. Hugged my girls often

3. Submitted an article to a magazine

4. Spoke publicly advocating for my community

5. Investigated my lack of interest in life

Top 5 -- Things That Need My Attention in 2012

1. My weight and exercise habits

2. Regular Family Night lessons

3. Dates with my husband

4. Playing with my girls

5. Finishing projects

In the LDS Living emails that we get on Mondays, they provide a Family Night lesson. I have taken to printing these and using them for short, meaningful lessons rather than letting the evening go by with nothing taught. I like the format, and I need to make sure some kind of spiritual lesson happens every week. It is just too easy to let the weeks slip by.

Our girls are growing up so fast, and I'm continually reminded by the 5'4" twelve-year-old young woman who walks down the hall every morning. She still lets me hug her which is wonderful. I think I need to add some fun, though. Both girls are used to me being the executive director of day-to-day family affairs, but I'm making plans to fit in some Disneyland trips. When we look back, those fun times are the little moments that will be big moments in their memories.

While speaking out publicly at three school board meetings and writing several letters to the school board members regarding the closure of our elementary school, I used the writing momentum and whipped up an article for Seeing The Everyday, one of my favorite publications. They have accepted my article and will print it in their winter issue. More to come.

I also got to the bottom of my depressive mood and learned about Vitamin D deficiency; all is currently under control and back to normal. Unfortunately, when you spend two years not caring about much, there are consequences. I've gained nearly 40 pounds in the last two years and have gotten out of the habit of regular exercise. I need to begin the process of turning that destructive pattern around and get back on track. I've also got to get projects finished. This problem has been going on longer than two years, and I don't know what I wait for. I need to dig in and overcome this procrastination. It's ridiculous.

Lastly, and most importantly, Kelly and I will celebrate 25 years of marriage this next August. We have forgotten how to court each other and cultivate our relationship. It's easy to do when you get so used to someone and family life is busy. But it's very important for staying connected, and I want to bump it up on the priority list. Hear that, honey? I'll be asking you out a lot this year. Unless you beat me to it, which would be very romantic. Hint, hint.

Headache...Blech

2011-12-29T18:26:00.000-08:00

My Dad drove home yesterday morning, and Beth and Kevin flew home last night. We had a wonderful visit with everyone, and Beth and I were even able to squeeze in another viewing of Breaking Dawn. After they left, we watched Captain America and Kelly headed to bed so he could get up for work. He's off tomorrow and Friday, so we're pretty stoked.

Unfortunately for me, I spent the day in the company of a horrid headache. I was able to treat it yesterday, but not today. My chiropractor is out of town, so I have to wait for it to go away on its own. I wanted to take the girls and do something fun today, but it was not to be. They watched a movie and played video games, so I don't think they were suffering (sarcasm). I'm hoping for a healthier tomorrow. We really want to check out the Irvine Skate rink at the Spectrum. Here is my short list for heaven:

chocolate

no weight gain

no headaches

Soccer & Enchiladas

2011-12-27T19:12:00.000-08:00

Soccer: We got an invitation for Jenna to meet at the park this afternoon to play a little soccer. Before all the kids eventually arrived, it was three dads and their daughters playing a little daddy/daughter soccer. Kelly and Jenna had a little friendly dad/daughter competition. Oh who am I kidding? There was nothing friendly about it. Kelly challenged, Jenna came out like a tiger. Petersons are not competitive. Not at all.

Enchiladas: Kelly pulled out the leftover turkey and worked his magic for dinner. Turkey enchiladas with green sauce. Oh yeah.

Project Vinyl

2011-12-26T23:00:00.000-08:00

Whilst the rest of the household was busy playing XBox Kinect this evening, I grabbed a project that has been waiting about 4 years for me to complete. These vinyls were ordered at a party, and I've never gotten them up on the wall. I have one more to do, but I'll have to paint first. Here are the results starting in my kitchen and working back through the hall to our master bedroom. There is a canvas display and picture collage I worked on tonight as well. Feels good to check this one off my list!

Christmas Day

2011-12-25T18:31:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas! Here is a little snap shot of our day:

Before church...

After church...

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T22:00:00.000-08:00

We piled in the car tonight to do some holiday lights sight-seeing. A neighborhood right near us had a house with an elaborate light and music program, and they even made the local news headlines. We stood for about 10 minutes mesmerized by the dancing lights and music. Afterward, we dropped off a few last-minute gifts to friends, toured another neighborhood we always love to see and headed home. Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a good night!

~ home sweet home ~

Cinnamon Rolls!

2011-12-21T23:45:00.000-08:00

Kelly made cinnamon rolls tonight, and our friend, Michelle, came to learn. The best way to adopt Kelly's grandma's recipe is to make them with Kelly, and she did just that. We (I count me because I washed dishes) made three batches. Michelle mentioned her mom using string to cut dough, so we got out some fishing line and had fun cutting. Sarah and Jenna watched that part. Warm and gooey goodness abounds on my kitchen counters.

Graham Cracker Houses

2011-12-20T22:11:00.001-08:00

The Holbrooks invited us to make graham cracker houses with them tonight. It was so fun! The construction phase was just as important as the decorating. My girls had a blast, and we loved seeing the creativity. Thank you Holbrooks!

Jenna's house with peekaboo roof tops

Heather's house/hacienda (Christmas tree inside)

Caleb's Pentagon

Jonathan's castle with drawbridge

Matt and Brittany's house with garage

Hannah's house with icicles

Brett's ship
Sarah's house with manger for baby Jesus

Piano Recital

2011-12-19T21:46:00.000-08:00

We finally got the tree decorated. Kelly got it up last week and put the lights on it. It has been sitting waiting for me all week, and I finally dug in. I don't know why the task seemed overwhelming? Next year, we're starting after Thanksgiving so we can enjoy it longer.

Tonight was Mrs. Holbrook's Hot Chocolate and Holiday music recital. Jenna and Heather each played two songs, and we gathered with all the students for hot cocoa and goodies afterward. We have lots of friends from Moiola who take lessons, so it is super fun to see everyone.

Windy Special Persons Day

2011-12-16T23:00:00.000-08:00

Today was Moiola's annual, and last, Special Persons Day. The wind was whipping throughout the program, but the sun was shining in a gorgeous blue sky. I was surprised as the 5th graders came out to start the show at how emotional I became. I've been frustrated and concentrating on strategies that might help save our school and haven't had much time to be sad. Watching Mrs. Haukness play the piano for her kids and realizing that Jenna wouldn't have this amazing 5th grade teacher next year made me sad. Our students, teachers and parents are going to be in mourning the rest of this year while we are making the best of our time together.

The kids were all adorable as usual. Jenna's class sang, "Donde Esta Santa Claus" and "Deck the Halls." Since Grandpa is traveling this week, I was Jenna's "special person" and toured her classroom with her to see the fun things they've been working on. We then had her class party where we made a snowman picture frame ornament and played the gift exchange game. Jenna was so excited that there was a Lego she wanted, and she ended up with it. Her best bud, Sarah, stopped by from next door to say hi and pass out candy canes.

While driving over to pick up Heather after school, we saw a street sign that had blown off and another sign that had splintered and fallen over. We remembered that today was the day that Heather was to fly her Chinese kite, and we were so excited to find out if the wind was good for flying their slightly heavy kite. It was! Max and Heather got it up in the air even though it ended up breaking. We were laughing because only a super-strength wind could have helped get the homemade kites up, and the wind delivered! Here they are dressed up for their Chinese report cover. My Kimono gift Grandpa brought from Japan has come in handy a few times when we've needed some flair from the Orient!

Christmas at Disneyland 2011

2011-12-15T22:42:00.001-08:00

Visit with Santa, Mrs. C. and reindeer - check

Ride Small World and sing Jingle Bells - check

Gawk at ginormous tree and beautiful castle - check

Watch holiday fireworks show - check

Spend report card money on plushy stuffed animals - check

Ride Thunder Mountain Railroad (3 times) and visit the Haunted Mansion - check

Eat warm cinnamon churros - check

Make multiple puffs of breath just to see it in the frigid air - check

Have fun and make memories - check

Our Recording Release

2011-12-14T22:24:00.001-08:00

Tonight, Heather and I attending a party celebrating the release of the CD that we participated in recording this past June. We picked up our CDs, took pictures with the composer and directors, and met the artist of the beautiful work created for the oratorio. Information about the CD, the print below and the choirs can be found on the Messiah In America website.

CD Jacket

Artist - Howard Lyon

The artist of this amazing work of art has a daughter in the Concert Choir in Arizona. While listening to the oratorio, he knew he needed to "paint" what he was hearing. The print is available for purchase, and the proceeds from the first 1,000 are being donated to MCOAmerica. I so wish we could afford this. For now, I have the copy in the CD booklet which the artists graciously signed this evening when we met he and his beautiful wife. She was the model for the woman reaching for the Savior.

Heather and I with the composer and director, Brett, and his brother and director, Brandon. It is amazing to actually know a composer and artists of their caliber. They are really down-to-earth guys, and we kind of forget how brilliant they are. Brett composed the entire 34-movement work for choirs and orchestra and composes much of our choral and orchestral performance pieces. Brandon was my voice teacher when he was here in FV and is now in Arizona leading EVMCO. The volunteer work I did as Executive Director for OCMCO for the past three years was one of the most rewarding volunteer positions I've ever had. This project was huge, and my small crumb of a contribution will be a cherished memory forever.

1st Trimester Grades...Cha-Ching

2011-12-13T23:19:00.000-08:00

The girls brought home their report cards today. A few weeks ago, I confidently declared that we would give any kiddo with straight A's twenty bucks. Heather doesn't usually have the pleasure of seeing A's on her report cards, but she was doing well. Jenna started with grades for the first time in 3rd grade last year and did not get straight A's. I figured we were safe.

Ha.

I took out Jenna's report card, and we looked at it together. I was shocked that she has straight A's. Not shocked because she's not capable, but shocked because she hasn't really ever been that close to all A's before. At this point she reminded me that I owed her twenty bucks (I had forgotten). As I was trying to figure out how to work this with one girl getting straight A's and the other not, I realized that Heather had five A's and one B. The B is in Pre-Algebra and is a solid B. Heather getting a B in math is equal to an A, so I declared that Heather had straight A's in my book. She was really thrilled, and both girls squealed down the hallway when I handed them each a $20 to go put in their piggy banks.

Judge me not. We are not all about grades in our house because focusing on grades would have crushed Heather. She works so hard to do her best that I could never bring myself to give incentives for grades. But since Heather's sportin' the A's now, a little celebration was in order. I actually never saw our family doing this. Ever. It's way fun and we're very happy to see our girls realizing that they both did this on their own. If the self-motivation stays, we may need start saving up!

Rainy Day

2011-12-12T21:58:00.000-08:00

Some things haven't changed much around here these past few years...

Rain and very large puddles call for rain boots and puddle splashing.

The heavens opened during our trip to Sam's Club, and by the time we got home, our street was flooded. Fortunately the water never rises above the curb. The girls love the opportunity to wade down to the corner and back.

Winston came out to see what we were up to. Within minutes the water had swirled down the storm drains, so it was a good thing we grabbed the boots and took advantage (although we may have been a few minutes late to piano...Sorry Mrs. H.)

Deck The Halls

2011-12-11T21:52:00.000-08:00

We're a little behind with our decking of the halls. December 1 came and found us in the midst of dress rehearsals, soccer playoffs and concerts. During the second week of December, we were involved in piano lessons, a church dinner performance, Activity Days, Young Women's activities, a school board meeting, a Primary program rehearsal and trophy ceremony. Whew! Life is full and busy and we're enjoying every minute.

We finally have the tree and decorations down from the attic, and Heather and Jenna both helped find the right limbs to assemble the tree last night. We hope to finish decorating tonight as we enjoy family night together.

Trophy

2011-12-10T21:14:00.000-08:00

Jenna's soccer team got together at their coach's house today to receive their trophies for taking 1st Place in the AYSO Region 117 Championship. The girls were in awe at the size of the trophies. The coach had them each talk about what their favorite moment of the season was and what they learned. It was very cute.

Jenna's best friend, Sarah, came over to hang out for the afternoon/evening. We asked her to bring her trophy so we could get a picture of these girls. These cute best friends had to play for 1st place against each other in the playoffs. What a hard thing for best friends to do! They are both very proud of their teams' placement, and both the 1st and 2nd Place trophies are beautiful.

Closing Moiola

2011-12-09T10:01:00.000-08:00

After several months of worry, writing letters, discussion and waiting, we were present to witness the Fountain Valley School Board's unanimous vote to close Fred Moiola School. We knew it would happen, but many held out hope that the Board would see reason and realize that closing a school to mend a budget crisis was not the way to go. We believe that they were in such a pickle that there was nothing else to do. Unfortunately, it will not fix the problem.

During times like these, I wonder if the public really has any voice? If we were louder, nastier, more aggressive would it had made a difference? During school board meetings, we have the opportunity to speak, but there is no dialogue. We can write letters, but the board members are not required to respond. How do we know if we're heard? I would like to think that there is some democratic process here, but I think that ends after we cast our vote for the school board members. Our vote seems to say, "Here is the position. We'll watch and hope you do something remotely similar to what we'd like you to do."

One of the things I have learned through this process is that educators do not make the best business leaders. I am an educator and have voted many times for educators to be on the school board thinking they would be the most sensitive to educational needs. In reality, however, running a district is like running a business. Yes, there are decisions regarding children, teachers and education in general, but the money is what is going to take precedence over all other decisions, and if the money isn't being handled well, nothing else is going to go well. When elections come around next year, I believe that we may need to elect some business leaders who understand how to run a business and manage money. When the money is there, the support for students and teachers is there. Two school board positions will be opening up in 2012, and we need some change. Those in the business sector will have my attention.

My friend, Alex, posted something on my facebook page which made me feel a little better about the energy I invested in the cause:

"If you did nothing else, Melissa, you have opened a lot of people's eyes to how unaccountable to parents and public opinion the school board is, and that can only be a good thing in the future. I hope more people question the decisions they make. Because of the work you've done, it will be harder for them to get away with it next time."

I hope she's right.

This sounds good...

2011-12-06T22:09:00.001-08:00

Having one of those weeks were there is a lot to do and too little energy. I need some giddy-up in my go.

Soccer Weekend

2011-12-04T23:00:00.000-08:00

Kelly was the soccer dad superhero this weekend for Jenna while Heather and I were performing. Jenna's team was eligible for the Area Playoffs after winning their region championship game. Area Playoffs meant at least two games on Saturday and one on Sunday. Kelly and Jenna hit the field at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday morning, and the team won their 9:15 a.m. game. The team grabbed a quick lunch together and after a good effort, they lost the 1:15 p.m. game. Jenna's friends, Sarah and Ava, came to watch her play and cheer on the team which was an extra treat for Jen.

Kelly and Jenna were up again on Sunday to check in at 8:00 a.m. We had not expected any Sunday games for AYSO, and because we didn't feel we could let the team down without having notified them early on that we wouldn't be playing on Sundays, we made the exception and let Jenna play. I ran to early church at 9:00 a.m. just in case the girls won their game and had to go on to an afternoon game. They ended up losing, and Kelly and Heather were able to attend our regular church meeting while I stayed home with my exhausted superstar.

Our first, official soccer season is now over! The girls were not disappointed as they had already achieved so much this season. What a fantastic experience for our first time with AYSO. Here are some great photos taken by our team mom, Erin, at Saturday's game.

Concert Day

2011-12-03T23:54:00.000-08:00

Saturday was concert day for Heather and I. We started getting ready at 11:00 a.m. and were at the hall by 12:30 p.m. It is so very fun to share this experience with my beautiful daughter. Her vocal talent is growing by leaps and bounds, and she is having a great time performing. How many 12-year-olds can say that they've performed in one of the top rated concert halls in the world?

After the 2:00 p.m. concert, Heather and I headed over to Seasons 52 to meet up with my lovely mama friends from Moiola. They are such a fun group and have made the OCMCO holiday concerts and dinner an annual tradition. Heather took our photo, and I'm impressed with her photography skills.

Sheryl, Michelle, Kim, Kat, Darrell, Marina, Moi

After the 7:00 p.m. concert, I met up with wonderful friends and the handsome men in my life...

Paula and Melissa R.

Sarah

Charise

My cute family

Rehearsal

2011-12-02T23:43:00.000-08:00

Our concert run-through was at Segerstrom Concert Hall. It is always nice when we can rehearse the day before the concert as opposed to the day of. I was pleasantly surprised by the view (and the sound!) when we took our places on the third tier to rehearse with the children/youth. I had all of my gear with me and decided to snap a quick photo. This hall is so amazing that even after five years of performing there, the beauty is breathtaking.

Concert Time

2011-12-01T23:47:00.001-08:00

It's Christmas concert time for Heather and I. We'll be busy the next two days with rehearsals and performances. Jenna is off to play at area soccer playoffs this weekend. It's a busy one, but very fun. Have a lovely weekend!

The Moldy Girls Got It Done!

2011-11-30T22:11:00.001-08:00

AYSO Region 117 Champions...The Moldy Girls! Both teams were phenomenal. They played their hearts out. The final score was 1-0. Jenna played goalie for three quarters. She hates the pressure, but she got the job done. We are so proud of her!

Soccer Playoff - 1st or 2nd?

2011-11-28T22:00:00.000-08:00

Jenna's soccer team has gone undefeated in the playoffs. They have been playing so well that it is really fun to watch them compete. We are down to the championship round where the last two teams compete for 1st or 2nd place. The game was supposed to take place over the break, but due to rain, it was postponed until this week. The field the girls play on is saturated on a regular basis, but the rain makes it down right unplayable. The rain is good for some plant life as you can see here in this photo.

The teams lined up on Monday night prior to the game for a special photo opportunity. The girls were so excited and confident.

Unfortunately, a week off did not do our girls any good, nor did their over-confidence. Jenna's team is undefeated which would give them another chance if they lost this game since they can not be eliminated until they have two losses. Our opponents had already had one loss, and they played like girls who knew they needed to play hard or go home. They wanted the game, and it showed in their excellent play. It was a well matched game with some of our players making up for the sluggishness of their teammates, but in the end a squirrley ball got past our goalie resulting in the other team scoring and winning 1-0. We will meet them again on Wednesday night, and that will be the final game. I think our girls are awake now...we'll see. They have really shown what they are capable of, and hopefully they will bring it. Stay tuned...

Beach With The Blairs

2011-11-26T18:41:00.000-08:00

We took a stroll on the pier today with Shane, Michelle and Gavin. It was a really beautiful day, no jackets needed. We grabbed a bite at Ruby's and watched Kelly play a little volleyball.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-24T22:57:00.000-08:00

Michelle, Shane, Gavin and Grandpa joined us for Thanksgiving dinner. The Blairs arrived around noon today, and we are so, so happy to have them with us. The turkey was prepared and cooked to perfection by chef Kelly, and the meal was superb. As I tucked Jenna in tonight, she started to tell me all the things she was thankful for. She must have mentioned about 30 things. Coming from a girl who often focuses on what's not going right, I loved knowing that she could generate such a list. Nothing beats an attitude of gratitude.

Heather

2011-11-19T22:38:00.000-08:00

With a about a week left to go in the grading period of the first trimester of 7th grade, Heather's report card is still sparkly. She is thriving at her new school, and her countenance remains joyful even after a long day at school. She is able to do homework on her own, take tests with little stress, and I can tell from the work in her binder that her teachers are on-the-ball. As if things weren't going well enough, I got this email response from Heather's Social Studies teacher after I emailed to tell her an assignment was going to be late due to a glitch in Heather's preparation for her presentation that day.

"Dear Ms. Peterson, Oh my gosh, I can't begin to tell you how bowled over I am by Heather's presentation. There were some really excellent presentations, but Heather's was in a class by itself. It was off the charts in every respect. I have always known that she's an excellent student, and a pleasure to have in class, but she was clearly in her element on this project. I feel so lucky to have such great and fun students.

I am not the least bit concerned about her homework questions being turned in after the break.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving."

More to life than...

2011-11-18T12:40:00.000-08:00

The past few weeks seemed to have been consumed by my desire to speak for change in our school district. Conversations, emails, research, note taking, typing, presenting, meeting with Board members, more research, conversations and typing...It has taken a toll. There is more to life than this school closure issue. For example,

Winston likes to fall asleep on his back, or mimic his cow toy. We're glad Judy told us or we would have thought he'd keeled over.

There were some really cute decorations still up when I was canvassing the neighborhood with fliers for the School Board meetings. Here is one I really liked...

Cost Plus World Market had a sale, and I gained a new foyer table that fits perfectly by our piano.

Also in the "more to life than" category are birthdays, soccer games, friends and other joy-inducing events recently blogged below. Blogging is joy-inducing, and I've had little energy for it until now. Please scroll down to find the latest from the Pickle Jar.

Playoff Game, School Board, Breaking Dawn

2011-11-17T23:50:00.000-08:00

From 5:00 p.m. on, Thursday night was a whirlwind. It went something like this...

5:00 - Heather to OCMCO carpool for rehearsal; Jenna to soccer game

5:30 - Soccer playoff game #4 WIN!; Heather got to see David Archuletta at rehearsal WIN!

6:45 - Rush from double overtime to School Board meeting

7:00 - School Board meeting and presentation; Kelly home with girls

8:00 - OCMCO rehearsal; Heather loses entire Powerpoint presentation and has to start over

11:00 - Meet TMs for Breaking Dawn premiere

Jenna's shoes after the game on the muddy field

The four speakers at the Board meeting spoke in favor of the K-8 choice

Charlotte, Barb, Sarah and me

Sarah, myself, Casey

Saying Goodbye to Friends

2011-11-14T22:00:00.000-08:00

Heather has had an easy time making friends ever since pre-school. She has such an open personality and loving heart. She really, really loves anyone she calls friend. This month, two of her friends will be moving out of state, and in June, a third friend will move out of state. She is heartbroken. There is not much to do to console her. It's something she has to mourn, and she'll come to realize that she is still surrounded by her good friends, and that she can continue to keep in touch with those who move away.

Delaney is a friend Heather made in 3rd grade. The girls have been in and out of social groups over the years, and this school year Delaney and Heather both moved to Fulton without each other knowing. It was a joy for both girls that they knew each other from Moiola, and Heather quickly assimilated Delaney into the large friendship group at the new school. The girls wanted to spend some time at Disneyland before Delaney moves next week, so we took Monday afternoon/evening off and hit the park. They had so much fun, and it was very fun to watch them!

Soccer Playoff Game #3

2011-11-12T21:00:00.000-08:00

Today was playoff game #3. The girls are doing so well, and they are having so much fun. It's great to win, but we are most proud of the way they play the game and the fun they have. The rain held off just long enough for us to finish this game!

Coach Joe found some gloves for Jenna, and she loved them! We have nicknamed them the "Gloves of Glory" because they seem to give her the confidence to make some very ESPN-like moves.

After the game we headed over to our end-of-season party (thank goodness for the win because our last two parties followed losses). The girls had a blast playing together while the adults mingled.

Coach Paul and Coach Joe gathered everyone for some comments. Coach Paul congratulated the girls on a great season, the parents on their great sideline behavior, and he and Coach Joe took turns highlighting the girls individually. The smiles on their faces were priceless as they listened to what their coaches thought of their growth. We had a great team and were so fortunate to have these coaches for our first soccer experience.

Demanding My Time This Week

2011-11-10T22:14:00.000-08:00

Photo: Fountain Valley Patch

Photos: Orange County Register

Tuesday night was my second presentation to the Fountain Valley School Board. We have one more meeting on November 17 in which to articulate our concerns and ideas and attempt to persuade either no school closure until a Budget Committee can formed, or persuade the Board to consider a different school. They are making a huge mistake considering our school.

I hope to write more in the coming weeks as I gain perspective. I also hope to blog, clean my house, finish my laundry and do some fall decorating, most of which would be done if I were not scouring reports, researching and preparing speeches. For anyone who thought research and presentation were gone for good once you left college, think again my friends. You may one day have to pull out all you've got and fight like you've never fought before.

Happy Birthday Kelly!

2011-11-09T23:00:00.000-08:00

Kelly celebrated the 24th anniversary of his 24th year today. His 24th birthday was his first birthday we celebrated as newlyweds, and it was 24 years ago that we married.

K - Kind

E - Energetic

L - Loving

L - Likeable

Y - Young at heart

I'm a lucky girl. Happy Birthday Kelly!

2nd Playoff Game for Soccer

2011-11-05T22:17:00.000-07:00

The girls played another great game and...

they won.

Squee.

TwilightMoms Dinner

2011-11-04T23:05:00.000-07:00

Some TwilightMom friends were here from New York to work the Twilight Convention that occurred this weekend in Los Angeles. Lee (2nd on left) covered the Grauman's Theater event on Thursday where Rob, Kristen and Taylor showed up to put their hand and foot prints forever in cement. She took the photo at the bottom and is still reeling from the fortune of being able to be that close to the action. Stephenie Meyer was also there and we all agreed that whether we love the actors and the movies or not, we are so happy for Stephenie that her dream and talent has spawned such a phenomenon.

Friday night I met up with the gals from New York and my pals from Southern CA. We had a great time visiting, telling stories and giggling. I'm sure our waitress thought we were nuts. As we've been known to say...

All because of a book.

Photo by Lee Orlando for TwilightMoms

Soccer Playoffs

2011-11-03T23:42:00.000-07:00

Tonight was Jenna's team's first playoff game for the fall soccer season. They played a team who had beat them 3-2 in the regular season. Our girls played the game of the season tonight winning 4-3 after double overtime and the goal kickoff. Jenna had her best game to-date, passing, dribbling, blocking (with face, stomach, feet or whatever!) and defending the goal. We are proud parents this evening not only because of the win, but because of our team's ability to rise to the occasion and put all they've learned to practice.

Halloween

2011-10-31T23:08:00.000-07:00

The girls were so excited about the spooky fog on Halloween morning that they had to have their before school photo with the foggy background. Our modified Tigger (orange and black day at the middle school, no costume pieces allowed) and un-dead soccer player were excited to be back at school for the day's festivities. Jenna's school was still in full costume mode with their costume contest, and she had fun participating and checking out all the fun costumes.

Evening plans were all over the place, but finally settled just before the spooktacular trick-or-treating hour. Kelly took the girls and their friends, Grace and Sarah, over to the Nobel's neighborhood which goes all out with the decor on the street. This year was Twisted Fairytales, and the point of going was to see the grandeur, not necessarily to stock up on candy. There are hundreds of kids that go through, so it was pretty much a zoo, but they had fun checking it out.

After that visit, they all returned to go trick-or-treating in our neighborhood. It was just like old times with our former neighbor, Sarah, along, and it was very fun for Heather and Grace to get to trick-or-treat together. We even ran into the older girls' friend, Mary Barbara. The girls all scored big with handfuls of candy being passed out as it got later into the evening and things quieted down in the neighborhood. The girls came back to our place to do some traditional candy trading before saying goodnight.

Pumpkin Carving

2011-10-30T23:00:00.000-07:00

Each year I am amazed at my husband's carving skills. He has the girls draw or find an image they can sketch, and he gets the image translated to the jack-o-lantern. He has the girls think about the how the light will come through so that they get a good image for him, and then he works his magic. He did another awesome job this year. Grandpa was here for the festivities.

So You Think You Can Dance Tour

2011-10-29T23:56:00.000-07:00

Saturday evening was the Los Angeles performance for the So You Think You Can Dance? tour at the Nokia Theater. This year I went with my friends, Michelle, Kim, and Trish. The evening was so exciting. There is something about going in person to see our favorite dancers that is really amazing. I ran into Joshua who was the winner a couple of seasons ago, and he stopped for a picture. The high points of the night included watching Melanie and Marco dance their statue routine, Melanie dance her solo, Tad dance his solo, and seeing the two tappers tap it out live. Tad was hilarious and his B-Boy tricks were phenomenal, and Jess, who specialized in Broadway as well as tap, was amazing; it was a real treat to watch them perform. We had fantastic seats and had a blast being there together to watch our favorite dance show performers.

Skating and Monster Mash

2011-10-26T21:55:00.000-07:00

Heather and her besties had a super-fun afternoon Wednesday. First, they went to the FV Skate Rink free skate hosted by MacKenzie's orthodontist, Dr. Harris. They had a blast.

Next came dinner at the Peterson's. After dinner, they freshened up the costumes and headed to the HB Stake youth activity, the annual Monster Mash. More super-fun silliness was had before they were all delivered back home exhausted, but happy.

Pre-Halloween Fun

2011-10-25T23:49:00.000-07:00

The candy is purchased, the pumpkins ready to carve and the decorating complete. There are so many activities planned this week that we just had to squeeze in one last trip to Disneyland before Ghost Galaxy went away. Tonight was the only night it would fit, and Kelly got home just as school let out which ended up being perfect! We loaded kids and backpacks in the car and spent a couple of hours at the Magic Kingdom. Yes there was homework, but what were we to do? We needed our fix of Disney magic. We rode Space Mountain/Ghost Galaxy three times (thank you FastPass), Splash Mountain once and made plans to return next week to get in our Haunted Mansion time. Have you been to Jack's house? It's awesome.

Snapshot-Our Week 10/17/11

2011-10-22T23:36:00.000-07:00

Tuesday: Photo shoot at South Coast Plaza included trip to Claire's to purchase dangly earrings and a braided headband.

Wednesday: Found a gift left by my very thought friend, LeAnn and took Winston to the groomers.

Thursday: Trip to the dentist for girls' cleanings.

Friday: Home teacher stopped by with homemade goodies from his wife, my uber talented friend, Shea. Took picture as cookies did not survive the evening.

Choosing Colors for Family Pictures

2011-10-18T08:44:00.000-07:00

While reading a blogger's tutorial on dressing for holiday card photographs, I realized that although I'm not a "professional," I could offer some tips to take the stress out of getting ready for family photos. Although I'm not an expert, I have experienced emotions from completely stressed out to completely survivable, so I may be able to offer some useable advice. Here are my rules to live by:

1. Don't stress - Use what you have

You don't have to buy all new clothes for the family. Most of us have neutral colors, and if your kids are young, you've probably purchased in a color palate without thinking about it because of your personal taste.

2. Blend - Use colors and fabrics that compliment

Again, it's not necessary to match. I usually do a basic bottom of bare feet or neutral shoe color, then jeans for everyone. Khakis work well also. Keeping the bottom half of us more uniform keeps the eye away from this least important part of the picture. The color palate on the top can be a mix of a color like blue, for example, with neutral beige/tan/white mixed in. Or you can do everyone in the same color, but not the same shirt with the texture and style of each shirt adding the interest. Try to keep the fabrics complimentary also. If everyone is in a light cotton and one person is in a sweater, it looks funny. So balance those different fabrics like you would the pops of color putting at least two of four or three of five in the same weight of fabric.

3. No bold colors or prints that clash

The eye is drawn to whatever pops, and your clothes are not the focus of the picture. If you are going to use colors, make sure they compliment the photo. If one person wears a bright color, another person should have it to balance the photo. Too much bold color or mixing prints makes the photo visually busy and detracts from the subjects.

4. Fancy hair isn't necessary

We've done blow-dryed hair, flat ironed, pony tails, you name it. It's stressful to worry about hair! As long as it's brushed and neat, I'm happy. The girls are happier too.

Here is our gallery of the last few years. The first two are poorer wardrobe choices, the first having too many colors going on, and the second having only one family member in a pop of color.

In the rest of these photos, I tried to think neutral and complimentary. You'll see that not all the photos are professional, nor are all of the outfits perfect. But there is something that works in each one and that is that we tried to keep the focus on us and not our clothes. Most of the time it works.

Jenna del Fuego

2011-10-15T23:02:00.000-07:00

Our girl was quite on fire at her game Saturday. We knew she was a gifted defensive player, however, we didn't know what she had in her at the goal. Several shots came at her fast and high, and she deflected them all. No one scored on her. She even dove on top of a ball while her opponent was still trying to kick it. What? Yeah, she was on fire. We were so proud of her, and of all her teammates who took what their fabulous coach taught them the day before and put it to the test. They did not let these taller, faster, harder kicking girls intimidated them, and although Jenna's team lost 3-2, this was the best our girls have played. We told Jenna that when you play like her team did, no one loses. She agreed.

Fun, Fabulous, Friend & Family Friday

2011-10-14T22:31:00.000-07:00

Friday was one of those days that was busy with activity, but the best kind. Here's a recap with photos...

10:00 a.m. - Met my roommate from our Forks, WA for breakfast at Mimi's.

12:00 p.m. - Had smoothies at Lunch-0n-the-Lawn with Heather.

3:00 p.m. - Sat at animal clinic for about an hour getting Winston all squared away with shots.

4:00 - 10:00 p.m. - Kelly and Heather arrived in Barton Flats for their backpacking trip. Their trail pass for the next day was not at the Ranger Station, and the campground had only one site left. It appears that everyone (and their brother) thought it was a good idea to go camping that weekend. They had a blast at the camp ground and returned home Saturday instead of Sunday.

8:00 p.m. - After soccer practice, Jenna and I headed to CA Adventure to meet up with our cousins. We hung out with them until about 1:00 a.m. It was awesome for the kids to get reacquainted.

Soccer and a Doggie

2011-10-11T16:47:00.000-07:00

In an effort to keep soccer pictures interesting (as opposed to the same old girl in the same old green shirt and socks), I have made a list of random soccer facts. We're a new soccer family, so all facts help in the learning curve.

1) You might get a coach who encourages the girls to pick a "unique" name. And then the banner people will be challenged to create an image to go with the name.

2) You can make new friends on a soccer team.

3) You will discover skills you didn't know you had, for example, being a naturally gifted defensive player. Then you have to get used to the coach not letting you be a forward like you dreamed about because you defend the goal better than anyone else.

4) Soccer hair can be pretty even when you're sweaty and red faced.

More random facts to come in the next couple of weeks. In other news, we have a dog. This will come as a shock to some of my family (Aunt Kathy), but we have joined the ranks of dog owner. We have "adopted" my friend's purebred Shitzu (I finally get to partially swear every time someone asks me what kind of dog it is), and the girls are in heaven. Here is a picture of Heather with Winston when he was a puppy in 2007. I cannot remember the name of the other puppy, but he was darned cute, and Jenna was darned cute too, so I posted the sisters' picture.

Winston was having to be separated from my friend's grandson because the grandson would be a little naughty when Winston was around (grandson is 12 months old). Winston would then nip, and the whole thing wasn't good. The separation was hard on Winston because he's such a people dog, and our friends decided they needed to find a home for him until next summer when grandson would be moving out. We have left next summer open in case our friends want Winston to come back and live with them, but for now, Winston is a Peterson. Can I just say that Peterson dogs are spoiled? You'll see. I'm sure there will be pictures and blog posts.

An Apple Family In Mourning

2011-10-06T22:54:00.000-07:00

As most of the world knows, Steve Jobs, creator of Apple and most of the technology that lives in our house, died yesterday. We are finding ourselves a bit melancholy. We did not know him personally, but our lives have been affected by him. When I met Kelly 25 years ago, he owned a Macintosh computer. I hadn't ever heard of one, but when we married, I became a Mac/Apple gal, and I still am one. We're not only an Apple family, but a Pixar family too. Toy Story, one of our family favorites, was made possible because of Steve Jobs' vision.

This video link is to Steve Jobs' speech for the graduating class of Stanford University, 2005. It's about 15 minutes long, but I watched the whole thing and was kind of glad I did. It was really interesting to know some details about him that I didn't know like, for example, a calligraphy class he randomly took at college being the reason why computers have beautiful fonts. I also really, really love that he shared that we may not know why things are happening in our lives, but that one day we'll be able to look back and connect the dots. Being fired from Apple years ago, he says, was one of the best things that had happened to him. Of course he can only say that looking back. If you have a moment, it's worth a listen.

http://www.ted.com/talks/steve_jobs_how_to_live_before_you_die.html

Heather?

2011-10-03T22:48:00.001-07:00

The last couple of posts on our blog have been about Jenna. What is up with Heather? Well, she's doing really well. Here's a little sample of her school year thus far...

Picture. Worth words. You get the idea.

Soccer Saturday

2011-10-01T17:11:00.000-07:00

It was such a hot day which really caught all the girls by surprise. They were a little sluggish, but played well. Jenna is unstoppable on defense. She and her friend, Rachel, defended their goal, and no one got through them.

Jenna does not like being goalie. She takes her turn, and she kept her chin up as two points were scored on her. She much prefers her other defensive position making sure the ball never gets near the goal in the first place.

She had her first team party and had fun hanging out with Daddy (Heather and I were at a different table in the crowded restaurant).

Random Nature

2011-09-30T22:55:00.000-07:00

This past Friday afternoon, we heard and odd pitter pattering and went out to investigate. We found rain falling in our sunny front yard (click on picture to view raindrops).

And, of course, there was running with abandon through said rain.

A couple of hours later at soccer practice, we saw this...

and by the time we drove to dinner, we saw this...

What a treat!

Lunch on the Lawn

2011-09-28T21:06:00.000-07:00

Lunch-on-the-Lawn was just Jenna and I which ended up to be kind of fun. Jenna is usually in the shadow of her older sister, and I think it was really great for her to have one-on-one time with momma. I brought a picnic lunch with mac and cheese hot off the stove, bowls, classes, utensils and a pitcher of raspberry lemonade. It was really fun and easy to throw together. For dessert we had fudge bars that I kept frozen in our new "Pack-it" lunch bag. After lunch, we had a few moments of mom and Jenna tetherball before the other kids started showing up. It was so great to have this special time together.

A New School & Inspiration

2011-09-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

Thursday, 9/22/11, was Back-To-School Night at our new middle school. The middle school itself is not new, just new to us. As we sat through the campus introduction and then through each 12-minute presentation by Heather's teachers, I was overcome with the profound assurance that we had made the right decision to move her to this school.

Each of Heather's new teachers presented a message that they 1) enjoy their jobs, 2) want to help their students learn, and 3) will do everything in their power to help their students succeed. I was pretty much tearing up by 6th period. It was as if I had been starving and had just been seated at a banquet.

Aside from the educational perks, Heather has been reporting no shister-like behavior on the playground. We don't hear daily reports of who called her what name, or what foul word someone was experimenting with that day. No catty girls are trying to ensnare her in a trap or leaving her to walk the playground alone. She now has about 12 or so of her very dear friends from growing up or church to hang out with. The naughty words are somewhere across the yard with those lovely language scientists who, I'm sure, are still experimenting away. Heather has a new buffer that money cannot buy.

I jotted down two quotes off the wall in Heather's social studies classroom. Both inspired hope for the good things to come. So far, the school year is looking brighter. Even if it doesn't stay this way, I am grateful for the respite of the past couple of weeks. Last year was a doozy for this momma, and the change of pace thus far has instilled some long-needed peace.

We are what we repeatedly do.

Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.

~Aristotle

The greater danger for most of us

lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short,

but in setting our aim too low and achieving our mark.

~Michelangelo

A little photo repost...

2011-09-26T23:19:00.000-07:00

Reposting two photos tonight that I realized I had more to say about. In the first photo, you can see me hanging on for dear life in the back row with my hub and daughters to the right. The guy on the left is my dad. I love that my dad and I are in this photo, on a terrifying ride (the Tower of Terror at CA Adventure) and having a hysterically good laugh. I love that my dad is still able to do these seriously fun things with me and my girls. How many grandpas ride roller coasters and crazy drop out rides in their 70's? I guess if yours does, you are lucky too.

My dad and I first went to Disneyland together about 42 years ago. He took me on the Matterhorn when I was somewhere around two years old. I'm feeling tons of gratitude tonight that we are still riding roller coasters together all these years later. I hope we get to do for many more years to come. Love you Dad, and thanks for spending my birthday with me.

Birthday Celebrating

2011-09-23T23:18:00.000-07:00

Today was number 44 for this momma. I spent the morning at brunch with dear friends, part of the afternoon napping (ahhhh) and the rest of the afternoon and evening at Disneyland with my family. It was a wonderful way to spend the day.

The Tower of Terror...

XD Star Tours...

Stash of LOVELY presents...

Things That Bug

2011-09-19T13:36:00.000-07:00

Currently, there are some minor things out there that are striking the annoying string on my little happy harp. These things were on my mind, and I thought I'd record them. No offense whatsoever is meant to anyone who does not see an issue with any of these topics. It will most likely be entertaining for my grandchildren to read what their grandmother was waxing neurotic about back in 2011. How old fashioned they'll think their old granny was.

1. The name or discussion of Christ being taboo. Two of my friends have children in lead roles in a high school drama production that consists of a montage of romantic/love scenes from various stage plays. One of the scenes cast involves two high school boys in a gay relationship. Whether you think this is great or not, it's raising flags for me about the range of topics that are publicly acceptable to introduce to our children in a public forum. Go with me here for a minute...For years public education has included many, many diverse celebrations and topics -- Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, the belief in Santa Claus around the world, Leprechauns, the Easter Bunny, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Presidents' holidays, Flag Day, Cinco de Mayo (not even a holiday in Mexico!), Muslim and Islamic traditions, and the inclusion of all types of families (which will now include gay couples). The text books still site chimpanzees as our "ancestors". Nowhere, absolutely no where (except in a portion of the 7th grade social studies textbook which is the last chapter and consequently dropped if the school year ends before they get to it), or on any planet do we teach our kids about Christ. It's simply not allowed. Those who believe in Christ and lead Christ-centered lives are being left out of the instruction. Believe what you will, but lemme tell ya something...our neglect of the topic of Christianity isn't making the world a better place people.

2. The new hot chocolate packets with "a cup of coffee's worth of caffeine" in them. If I wanted my warm beverage to have caffeine in it, I'd have a cup of coffee. Leave my hot chocolate alone! Enough said.

3. Teens and children with cell phones. I get that they need a cell phone, which replaces the dime or quarter their parent's and grandparents used to never leave home without, and I'm not knocking that. But is anyone else nervous about the fact that the cell phone, complete with data package that links directly to Facebook, internet and email, is resembling, on some kids, a physical extension of the thumbs and seems to monopolize said young person's attention when they are somewhere they could actually being enjoying family, friends or activities? It makes me sad, but there isn't much we can do to stop the tide except to beware for ourselves and our kids.

Soccer!

2011-09-17T22:49:00.000-07:00

Today was Jenna's second official soccer game. Last week, her mother, who is also team photographer, was so worried about getting all the team members in a variety of shots that she neglected her own girl. Not this week! I remembered to shoot a ton of photos. Here are some highlights. Our favorite is of Jenna and her dear friend, Sarah, playing on opposing sides AND coming up against each other. Love it!

Jenna's defense was out-of-this-world today. We have a fabulous coach whose goals for the girls are that they have fun and learn to play the game. He teaches team work all the way, and we really admire his expertise, humor and patience with the girls. The fact that we've won the first two games is due to the girls' sticking with the plan and playing as a team. We are so proud of the girls for their ability to play together so well that whether they win or lose, the win!

9/11 Memorial in Fountain Valley

2011-09-12T20:20:00.000-07:00

Tonight we drove over to the 9/11 memorial that is next to the Fountain Valley Library. A local Eagle Scout made the memorial possible along with his troop. It is very simple, but its presence is powerful. After watching a portion of a documentary last night with the girls and discussing the events of September 11, 2001, viewing this piece of the World Trade Center tower was amazing.

Remembering September 11, 2001

2011-09-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago today, we woke early to get an jump start on our Disneyland trip. My sister was visiting with her son, and my aunt planned to meet us at the front gates. Somewhere in the quiet bustle of the early morning, my husband called and told me to turn on the television. We did not comprehend what we were looking at and sat down to watch and listen. After confirming that Disneyland, and many other places, would not open that day, we sat on the sofa for hours.

I watched the events of that horrible morning grateful that my two-year-old daughter and eleven-month-old nephew were too young to understand what they saw as they toddled in and out of the living room throughout the day. It was impossible for us to comprehend the magnitude of what had taken place. I sat, pregnant with my second daughter, and wondered what kind of world I was bringing her into.

Each year as we mark the of the anniversary of 9/11, I am very appreciative to stop and reflect. We are teaching our growing daughters more each year about freedom, why we enjoy it and the extraordinary men and women who make it possible. They are just old enough to begin to comprehend tragedy and sacrifice, and every year, they understand just a little bit more. We will teach them again this year about the significance of the 9/11 anniversary, and we will remember those men and women who are still battling and sacrificing abroad to protect our freedom.

We will not forget. We cannot forget.

Some Inspiration

2011-09-09T13:29:00.000-07:00

As the tenth anniversary of 9/11 approaches, many of us are reflecting and expressing our thoughts. My friend, Amy Henstra, penned the following post on her blog. Her words were so well expressed that I asked her permission to re-post them here. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

The American Flag has always stirred something inside me. Even as a child, I can remember staring at the flag against a bright blue sky and feeling...well, patriotic. Grandfathers on both sides of my family have served and fought in wars. As 9/11 approaches I have really been pondering what good I have done for my country. Although, I am not a soldier, do not carry a gun, or risk my life to defend, honor and uphold God and country... I am making a difference. One child at a time. One life at a time. It is my hope that my gratitude bleeds over into all those I come in contact with. With all the war, sadness and depression in this world there is much to be thankful for. That is where Light comes in. In opposition to war is peace. Joy in your heart. Gratitude to a soldier. It is so hard for me not to hug a soldier in uniform! When I see them in the store I get a lump in my throat. My desire is so strong to do MORE. Then I remember that the hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world. Mothers, do not doubt your ability to raise good people. The world needs them in every capacity. Soldiers, teachers, workers, builders, preachers, people who inspire and uplift this weary world. And everyone of them has a Mother. Be kind to your children. Be loving to your spouse. Share a smile with a stranger. We can make a difference. By spreading light. I encourage you to read, study and pray how you can bless the lives of those around you. I still pray for those whose lives changed on 9/11. All of us were changed, but some lost everything. I think about them nearly every day. So many lives lost. Our soldiers continue to give their lives... let us give them hope. Be the change YOU wish to see in the world. It all starts with you. As for me.... well. My colors are flying high and free thanks to those who DO defend our freedom. May God bless them all. Wherever they may be. Thank you. Freedom is never free.

First Day of School!

2011-09-07T22:23:00.000-07:00

The first day went well. Very, very well. I actually wondered what the good fairy had done to my children. The girls woke up early with no complaints after sleeping in all summer (and I mean sleeping in as in breakfast bordered on being called lunch most days), got ready for school, and we were out the door by 7:15 a.m. to go help hand out p.e. clothes at the middle school. Getting up early and getting rid of the harried rush and "hurry up" scenario is definitely the way to go.

Heather was admitted to Fulton after a new 7th grade teacher was hired. Her year may not be much different academically, but when her friend's car pulled into the parking lot, and her friend rolled down the window and squealed, "Heather!!!!!!" before jumping out of the car and running for hugs, I knew switching schools was the right decision. Heather's day went splendidly, new braces and all. In fact, the new braces hurt less on day 2 than the spacers had on day 2. It was a welcome surprise.

Jenna had a great day also. She got the teacher we requested should have a stellar academic year. This will be the first time since the 2007-2008 school year that I am sending both my girls to school without the feeling of dread lingering during the day. I am a happy momma.

Braces

2011-09-06T22:41:00.000-07:00

They are on! We have a brace-face in the house! She was a great patient, and they went on in 45 minutes or so. Heather spent the rest of the day trying out words that now sound different with her knew "whistle", and she also made faces most of the day which I interpreted as her working to try and fit her lips around the new bulk comfortably. She looks adorable, and so far, the braces are less painful than the spacers were (at least for the first 24 hours). I am considering employment at Jamba Juice since it will fulfill both the need for income and the discount on smoothies as these have become the new and necessary lunch of choice. The most fun was shining a flashlight on her teeth at bedtime and then turning out the lights to view her glow-in-the-dark brackets. She was a complete Cheshire Cat! If you're going to have a mouth full of metal for two years, you might as well be able to glow in the dark, right?

Learn With Joy

2011-09-05T19:11:00.001-07:00

We had a Back-to-School Feast tonight inspired by the Nielsons over at The NieNieDialouges. Our theme was borrowed from a past Nielson feast, and it fit perfectly for us this year. When I read the words, "Learn With Joy," I knew we needed this theme.

In preparation for the feast, I made a crown for each daughter (the crown represents their divine nature), place cards for the table, and little cupcake toppers with the theme written on them. I found a fun shirt for each girl and wrapped that for some extra excitement. Our dinner consisted of slow-cooked BBQ chicken, mashed potatoes, peas and a choice of root beer or cream soda. Dessert was a family favorite from our cupcake project, Mint Brownie Cupcakes.

After dinner, we had a little family night lesson centered around our theme. We read the scripture Jacob 4:3 (from The Book of Mormon) that contains the theme, and also some of the words of our past LDS Prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley in his book, Standing for Something. President Hinckley was an advocate of improving ourselves through learning. He was in his 90's when he declared that he still wasn't done and was still learning all the time. We discussed learning as a privilege that many in the world cannot partake in. The girls were surprised to know that in some countries, people are uneducated while in others, girls are not allowed to go to school. We also talked about tackling things that are hard and how we could do that. Everyone came up with a plan for eating a large cake, and we decided that the way to eat it is one bite or one slice at a time.

We hope that there was some meaning for our girls tonight. School has been such a drudgery, and we really needed a positive spin (the momma included). We are grateful to live in a country where we can educate ourselves, worship freely and obtain the necessary materials for our emotional, physical and spiritual growth. We'll continue to discuss the theme now and then and check in with each other. We're praying for a successful and happy year. These cuties look ready, don't you think?

Earrings and Shakes

2011-09-01T21:21:00.000-07:00

Thursday morning, we had a get-it-done day. We took paperwork over to the middle school and then headed to the mall. Our first stop was Calire's where Heather got her ears pierced. Woot! It was a must do before school started.

After Claire's, we grabbed lunch at Ruby's Diner and hit the Border's Bookstore closeout (score for the bibliophile!). Then it was across the street to use our Color Me Mine gift cards from Christmas (thanks Aunt Michelle!). Heather and Jenna both kicked in money to buy their perfect item. Heather painted a dragon, and Jenna painted a mermaid. Notice Heather's cute pierced ears and Jenna's new clip-on earrings.

Friday was full of friend time with Heather at Grace's house and Jenna with the Holbrooks at Newport. I used those hours to hit Target and stock up on groceries. I love my new Target Debit Card. If you don't have one, it's worth it to get the 5% off. That little bit adds up over time, and Target's prices are pretty good.

After dinner we made the Ultimate Chocolate Shake. The recipe is from somewhere years ago, and it was so good, it's the only homemade shake I make. They are not kind to the waistline, so we don't do this too often. This was actually the girls' first time tasting them.
1/2 C milk

4 Tbs. chocolate syrup

4 Tbs. malted milk powder (original or chocolate)

4 C softened ice cream

Blend mild, syrup and malt powder; add ice cream.

This recipe makes two hearty shakes. The Breyers carton above worked perfectly for a double batch.

Braces Begin

2011-08-30T20:45:00.000-07:00

Heather began the process of getting her braces. We had the final consult with the orthodontist yesterday, and she had her spacers put in. She has been in a lot of pain. I've second-guessed the wisdom of starting this now. She is scheduled for braces on Tuesday, the day before school. I'm not sure pain on her first day of school is going to be very helpful when she's trying to concentrate on a new school, a new school schedule, p.e., a locker combination and teacher expectations. If I'd had any idea that she would be this uncomfortable, I would have pushed for starting this process a week or two sooner.

Is there ever a good time to start braces?? Poor girl.

Last Full Week of Summer

2011-08-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

With just one full week of summer vacation left, we are planning on making the most of it. In fact, my cherubs are still asleep as I post this (it is 9:49 a.m.). I've been sleeping in myself and not feeling too guilty about it. I don't get as much done, but hey, pretty soon I'll be up with the chickens (in other parts of the county since we don't have any ourselves), and back in the non-vacation time zone.

Is anyone wondering how we are doing on our Summer Bucket List? If not, you can stop reading (hee-hee). If you are interested, well, we are doing pretty well. Although it normally pains me to begin a list and not check everything off, two items had to be deferred. We missed pumpkin planting. I kept thinking we had time, but before we knew it, we'd passed the window. It is on the list for next June. We also had to defer our trip to Grandpa's house when Aunt Michelle and Gavin had to postpone their visit. The girls wanted to go there all together. We most likely won't wait until next summer to visit Grandpa's place, but we're hoping we can still make the trip with Aunt Michelle.

As for the rest of the list, we're doing pretty well. These are the things we'll be finishing up this week and probably into the first week of school or so mostly because we could all use a smoothie or a shake after a hot day in a stuffy, un-airconditioned classroom (thank you very much District Office for not installing air when you had the opportunity--oh, sorry, wrong post).

Disneyland (must come up with money for a pass)

Kite flying (need wind)

Bake (need temperature to drop outside)

Homemade shakes

Smoothies

Color Me Mine gift cards

Sleep in backyard (need motivation to set up tent... and sleep with insects)

Jump rope (double dutch style; still need to get the long ropes)

We've added one for the week as well...the new 12-year-old needs pierced ears before next week. I'm off to find a good place to get that done. Any suggestions?

Pictures With Judy

2011-08-25T20:31:00.000-07:00

They speak for themselves...

Heather

Jenna

Sisters

Soccer Season

2011-08-24T23:45:00.000-07:00

We're into soccer season! Practices started while we were still wiling away the hours on the beach. Who knew the season started so early? Not us! We are done vacationing and slowly easing our way into the season. Jenna's first game is on September 10. Kelly and I are signed up as the team photographers and website updaters. These seem to be good jobs for us. Jenna is loving soccer. She loves that she gets to play a game she loves, have a friend on the team, make new friends, and have a fantastic coach. I'm sure we'll have many more pictures to share of our soccer athlete.

River Weekend

2011-08-22T20:21:00.000-07:00

This is where we spent our weekend...

No joke. The Neuberts graciously invited the Holbrook and Peterson families to join them at their river house for the weekend. The views of the house and from the house (view from family room window below) were stunning. Debbie shared that the plans for the house were titled "The Lake House", and it certainly looks like something out of a catalogue of East Coast homes. It was the prettiest one we saw on the river.

The girls and I carpooled with the Neuberts on Thursday evening with the Holbrooks following. Kelly joined us on Friday after work. We spent every single minute on the river, watching movies in the theater (pics of the theater are from 2008 during our last visit), playing games and visiting. It was SO much fun. What a special treat. We cannot thank the Neuberts enough for this fabulous weekend!

Vitamin D and Me

2011-08-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

I have a new relationship with Vitamin D, and it's so important that we will once again have another blog post about me (sorry honey). Actually, I am documenting my journey just in case my experience can help someone else. It's that important.

In March and April, I posted about my lack of energy here, and then about meeting my new doctor here. Things had gotten bad enough I had begun to investigate milder forms of Bi-Polar Disorder and other aspects of depression. Although I've written a little bit of my experience in the posts mentioned above, it warrants some more detail.

At the end of July I had my follow up doctor appointment to see how the massive doses of Vitamin D were working for me. Before my new number was revealed, we discussed how much better I've been feeling. About seven weeks after taking the Vitamin D, I literally woke up one morning and knew I was back. I have had energy to do things, and more importantly, the desire to do them. I have smiled and laughed more, felt the need for friends and contact with those outside of my home, and been overall more positive when I'm out in public. While watching my favorite dance show this summer, I began to spin around in my kitchen now and then and try out choreography that was popping into my head. I am awake and aware and ready to accomplish great things. Oh how I have missed this feeling.

The more we discussed the Vitamin D numbers, the more I learned. A normal range for Vitamin D is between 30 and 100. The range is wide because some people are just great at a number of 30, while others are feeling very low at numbers higher than that. This is the range they have found to be normal for many people. Numbers between 20 and 30 are considered to be Vitamin D deficient. Anything under a 20 is considered a severe deficiency. My number was an 18. Moreover, the research I've been reading has reported that by the time people experience the symptoms of severe deficiency, they have had it for quite a while. If you are interested in reading some of the literature I have found this article and this article very helpful.

My new Vitamin D number is 56. It is feeling like a great number for me. I am now going to reduce my dosage to a normal daily intake of Vitamin D as remaining at the high 50,000IUs is only productive for one to two months (after that, you can run into some other problems). I cannot believe the difference over the last 14 weeks. Unfortunately, one of the side effects of depression is weight gain (I would assume from the lack of energy or concern for one's diet, or anything else for that matter), and I have gained a lot of weight. My next hurdle will be to get back to a healthier weight and lifestyle, but I am so grateful to finally have some energy to do something about it that I remain positive.

I am concerned about the "simplicity" of my diagnosis. Not that health issue is ever simple, but considering I was very close to asking about antidepressant medication, and a simple blood test, combined with a very on-the-ball doctor, revealed that a vitamin was all I needed to treat my health issue, I use the word simple. I was prepared for a hard core mental health diagnosis and whatever meds may have been needed, and I was surprised and grateful that there was another answer. I wonder how often our concerns are overlooked or misdiagnosed by our doctors? I had to leave a beloved doctor to find a new one because I knew he wasn't hearing me, and I found the answer in a vitamin rather than a prescription medication. It's a little unsettling, but that's why we need to share our experiences. I have had my best medical and educational hurdles resolved because loving friends and family have shared their experiences.

Prior to the second week of June, 2011, I was not doing well. I didn't know how I got that way or why, but I knew something was wrong. I continued to forge ahead, but not in that locomotive way that gets things accomplished. It was more like trying to walk through sludge with heavy boots on. I did not want to talk to people; I had no energy for deep conversations with good friends, nor did I have energy to say hello to moms at school during drop off or pick up. I became a little reclusive, even from my church community feeling more and more like I didn't belong in my ward and/or that I was not valuable and needed there. I lost my drive and passion to do even the things that used to make me geeked-out giddy like performing or dancing. I did the things that the normal me would have done because I knew that the me I knew would have liked whatever activity, but I went through the motions without enjoying myself. My head knew this wasn't like me, but my heart didn't have the energy to do much about it. It took every tiny ounce of will I had not to drop out of everything I loved. When I think about the last couple of years, it makes me anxious. What if I hadn't switched doctors? How long would this have gone on? What have my kids and husband and friends been seeing all this time, especially my little girls? What kind of example have I been to them? And how many other people are walking around in those same shoes with little hope? This shouldn't have to happen when a simple blood test could possibly be the answer for someone.

Dear family and friends, please have your Vitamin D level checked. Please share my story with anyone you feel might benefit from it. If you are feeling similar to what I have felt, don't wait. If you are not feeling down or concerned, have your level checked anyway. Remember -- the symptoms don't show up until you've been deficient for a period of time. Catch it now before it goes unchecked for too long. Vitamin D could be your new best friend. It is certainly mine.

Thought For Today

2011-08-17T19:09:00.001-07:00

Torrey Pines State Reserve

2011-08-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

We spent one of our vacation afternoons hiking in the Torrey Pines State Reserve. Since it was our first time, we stopped at the Visitor's Center to ask the guide for advice on the best trails to take. We were able to hike two trails in the time we had, and what a fantastic adventure. Everywhere we hiked had views of the oceans or pine trees or both. This land was purchased originally by the Scripp family and later sold to the city of San Diego with the intent that the pines would be preserved in their original beauty. If you are ever visiting the area, this is a phenomenal place to explore.

San Elijo Beach Week

2011-08-13T20:00:00.000-07:00

We spent our annual family vacation week at San Elijo State Beach in Cardiff-By-The-Sea. As always, we had a blast. There were long days on the sand, lots of water time, yummy doughnuts from VG's Bakery, two days with the Holbrooks camping near by, and spooky stories by the campfire. These are some of my favorite pictures from the trip...

This is the statue that sits on PCH in front of the campground. It is tradition for individuals or groups to decorate the statue which usually means dressing it in clothes or wigs. The last morning at the camp we found this elaborate display which had been erected overnight. The surfer statue is being carried off by the Pterodactyl.

Haircuts

2011-08-05T21:59:00.000-07:00

The girls got their hair cut again, and this time they were going for a little style. I want to give them some say over their hair, but until they can blow it dry and style it, it's got to be a brush-and-go style. They are fine with that because neither one considers the blow dryer a close friend. Jenna went short, and Heather went for a few long bangs. They were both soooo happy. Chelsea does an amazing job with them.

Later on, Heather got dolled up for a play her friend was in. Her new hair and shirt were perfect and she looked so cute. When did she grow up??

Earning Money

2011-08-03T22:18:00.000-07:00

Jenna decided that she needs to earn some money. Last night she announced that she will be willing to do what I suggest for jobs. Today she decided that washing the cars was worth the $5 per vehicle (I gave her $6 per vehicle for her great effort and initiative). She was a trooper. She collected her money, paid her $4.63 debt to me, set aside her tithing, and happily stored the rest in her wallet. She's already asking what she can do tomorrow.

I'd love any ideas for what you've had your kids do for extra jobs and what you've paid them.

Cousin Time in AZ

2011-08-02T12:03:00.001-07:00

We spent the weekend with Jo and Mike at their new home in Arizona. From the minute we arrived on Friday until the night before we left, it was all about the pool. The kids had so much fun. I even got in for awhile to escape the heat. We had a great weekend visiting with cousins, playing, meeting Jeff and Susan's new baby girl and just hanging out.

SYTYCD Love and Miscellaneous

2011-07-27T23:29:00.000-07:00

Pic by Adam Rose/FOX

Lots of miscellaneous going on. But first, I have to say how much I love So You Think You Can Dance! I watch this darned show every week, every summer it's on. We're on Season 8, and I began with Season 2 (thank you to all my relatives who let me watch it while I was vacationing at their homes every summer). Melanie and Marko are my favorites this season. We'll see how far they go.

In other news, we've done a lot of purchasing this week. The bad news is that money is flying out the front door. The good news is that I got my rear in gear and got my office sorted out so that I could get a grip on bills and finish putting our new budget together. We've replaced our master bedroom mattress with a new memory foam mattress (jury is out on that as bed has to "re-shape" until we can sleep on it tomorrow), put gel foam on top of both girls beds to give their mattresses some extended life, purchased a rug for our office, put a new water filter pitcher in the fridge (hoping to not buy as many water jugs and use tap instead), purchased a new office chair (love!), and have many more things on the list to get. We're going to have to pace ourselves.

One nice thing that just joined our home today was a new X-Box Kinect. Heather decided that she really, really wanted one, so she pitched in nearly all of her birthday money toward it. I was surprised that she wanted to do that, but she was serious. Kelly still had a gift card from Christmas, so he put the rest of that in as well. Heather is so excited about this new system. We packed our PlayStation 2 in a box and made room for the X-Box.

The girls and I are off to Arizona for a quick trip this weekend to visit cousins, swim and meet a new baby girl in the family. We'll be back in time to celebrate a wedding anniversary (mine) and pack up for our beach camping adventure. During the space in between, we are enjoying our summer time to the fullest (read: sleeping in and being lazy).

This post is probably not at the top of the "Things to Blog About" list, but sometimes day-to-day life is blog worthy, even if for nothing else than to let our grandkids know what we were up to all those years ago...

First Sleepover

2011-07-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

Jenna and Sarah had their first official sleepover. This occurred during Heather's birthday party sleepover, and they had a blast, just the two of them hanging out in the playroom. They played and played until bedtime, and in the morning they painted their nails. Sarah's mom and I were discussing sleepovers and how we wait until the kids are older to have them, but then when they are older, the mischief seems to brew. We both decided that maybe sleepovers when the kids are a little younger and still automatically following instructions is the time to have the sleepovers. This little party went off just fine.

The Spy Who Needs You

2011-07-22T23:00:00.000-07:00

Heather celebrated her birthday with a spy-themed party. Kelly worked on an iMovie video with her that was emailed to friends with extra instructions. The movie was titled, "The Spy Who Needs You", and featured Agent 12 needing some assistance to apprehend the evil Dr. Crooked Teeth. These two were so creative in their collaboration that I feared the actual party would pale in comparison to the pre-party hype. We seemed to do okay.

The Cake (a bomb)

Headquarters (HQ) arrival and check-in

The weapon issued was a toothbrush. This weapon is very effective with Dr. Cornelious Crooked Teeth, the villain to be apprehended.

Mission instructions were given in the Briefing Room by Agent 43 and Agent 009.5

Some of the traps that Dr. C. set to slow down our agents included, acid spray (water sprinkler), activated bomb (large balloons filled with water which needed to be diffused), and live grenades which agent had to bat out into an open field before they exploded (soaker balls and bat).

In the end, agents located Dr. Crooked Teeth hiding in his lair protecting his precious candy supply. Agents used water bombs to flush out the target. Unfortunately, Dr. Crooked Teeth had some water bombs of his own.

Eventually, after running out of ammunition, the agents used their "weapons" to force Dr. Crooked Teeth from his lair (they thought of this all on their own). He hates toothbrushes and will do anything not to have to be around one. They apprehended the subject.

The agents enjoyed dinner, present opening, visiting and cake. I think they would have been fine just hanging out and chatting.

Theater Camp Performance

2011-07-22T13:49:00.000-07:00

After two weeks of theater camp, the cast performed Alice in Space. Every child had two or three parts, and the story was delightful. Jenna and Heather each got to play Alice, Heather was a narrator and an alien, and Jenna played two major Alice roles and one minor flower role. This camp was so much fun! The girls can't wait for next summer's camp.

Heather's 12th Birthday

2011-07-20T23:30:00.000-07:00

When Heather went to bed tonight, I asked her if she had fun on her first day being 12. She said, "It was awesome."

She started her day with birthday pancakes served on birthday party ware. Then she was off to Theater Camp while I did some shopping. After gathering some goods and picking up the girls from camp, we arrived home to find the yard decorated by Heather's new class at church. Heather thought this was sooooo wonderful.

The girls hung out and played and goofed around until dinner. Per Heather's request, we went to the Rainforest Cafe. Heather enjoyed her dinner of Python Pasta as well as a birthday song and complimentary ice cream. Little did we know how much she was counting on the balloon guy to be there. Good thing he showed up! The girls both got dragon creations which had fire coming out of the mouth that could also be used as a handle for flying the dragon. The dragons flew all the way to the car (and the girls are currently sleeping with their dragons, Puff and Alice, while we speak).

Once home again, and after waiting all day in agony (well, half the day since some presents didn't make their appearance until after camp), Heather was able to open gifts.

First Clinique skin care set, some concealer and some lipgloss from Mom and Dad, something fun to open since she already received her new bike.

A how to draw monsters book, Pokemon cards, fuzzy slippers and stickers from Jenna

And Super ScribbleNauts for her DSi from Grandpa. I think she was excited about this one. There was also $12 from Aunt Kathy and Uncle Chuck which she promptly put in her money box for safe-keeping.

Heather is just the most amazing thing ever. If I had been blogging when she was younger, I would have written about the awe I experience nearly every day as her mom. She came so calm and peaceful and sweet; she is still that way. I am still amazed that Heavenly Father sent her to me/us. Even with her pre-teen outbursts, she returns to her true self. She is intelligent beyond any depth that I will ever achieve, and I have learned so much from her. I grew up with a mom who told me that when she bought greeting cards, she always looked for the sentiment that expressed what she felt. I had a silly card for Heather and never even attempted to find a sentiment because I didn't think one existed that could express a fraction of how we feel about this girl. Today, I found a card for Heather that made me tear up right there in the darned card isle. It reads:

For A Very Special Daughter

If you could see

all the flowers

in the world...

if you could hear

all the laughter

in the universe...

if you could make

all the dreams

that ever

were wished

come true...

...then you would know

a little part of the joy

of having and loving

a daughter like you.

Oh how we love this girl. We are so, so blessed to be her parents.

On a cute note, last night, she told me that it was her last night brushing her teeth at 11. Tonight she announced that it was her first time brushing her teeth at 12. I am glad that she felt that she had an amazing day because that is what we wish for her. Every day. Forever and ever.

Happy Birthday sweet Heather!

We love you to the end of the universe and back again (times infinity)!

Growing Up

2011-07-19T09:53:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow, my very first baby girl will be 12 years old.

I am not sure I'm ready. No, I know I'm not ready. I want more time. There are words that have more meaning to me as I look at the past 11 years and try to grasp at the last few tendrils of my daughter's childhood innocence. Brief. Momentary. Fleeting. My girlfriend, whose two oldest daughters were passing through the phases of getting married and having babies at the time we talked, reported something to the effect that pre-school and elementary school years last forever, middle school is over in a week, and high school is over in a day. I am beginning to get the picture.

There is little I can do to stop this tide. It is coming, and I need to roll with it. However, with each passing phase, we mourn. I am in mourning. It is bitter sweet, and necessary. Up to this point, I have lived and loved with my eyes wide open, and although I know I have done a lot with my little girls, it feels normal to wonder if I could have done more. I have had appreciation and joy in each phase of Heather's development so far. I think what I'm feeling today is that it simply went by so fast. Too fast.

I usually learn from these little mourning phases that it is not too late and that she isn't off to college just yet, and then I happily do something about what I'm feeling. Sunday night after a full day of business at church, I put the girls to bed and sat on the couch for a few moments alone. It was after eleven (we are so naughty about bed time right now), and found myself missing my girls. It was one of those days that goes by in a rush, and you realize that you didn't make the most of love that day. I went into the girls' room to give some lovin'. I climbed Heather's ladder and told her I wanted to have some snuggles and tell her I love her. She was very cute and for fifteen minutes, straight, she related all she had been doing in her Pokemon DSi game that week. Fifteen minutes, non-stop, no breaks. All I could do was look at her, nod my head and give a well-placed, "mm-hmm" now and then. I finally had to ask her if she could tell me the rest tomorrow since my feet were losing circulation standing barefoot on the bunk bed ladder. Before I climbed down, I asked her if she was holding that all in her head this whole time to which she replied, "Yes! Thank you for listening to me. It feels good to talk about it because you listen to me and xxxx makes fun of me when I talk about it." And then she hugged me.

Because she's a pre-teen, she'll die of embarrassment that I shared that story, but it is now precious to me. The experience tells me that even if she doesn't need me for the usual climb-in-my-lap cuddles that were prevalent before she got too tall to do so, she still needs me to listen. I am hoping (and praying earnestly) that I will be able to interpret this new phase resplendent with eye-rolls, short-tempered answers and oddly timed outbursts, and know how to love my little girl in the ways she needs me now.

We'll see how it goes. I will need lots, and lots of advice, so thank you, in advance.

Summer Time

2011-07-18T19:12:00.000-07:00

"Oh, What Do You Do in the Summertime?"

Words and Music by Dorothy S. Andersen

Photography by Melissa

Oh, what do you do in the summer-time, when all the world is green?

Do you fish in a stream, or lazily dream

on the banks as the clouds go by?

Oh, what do you do in the summer-time, when all the world is green?

Do you swim in a pool, to keep yourself cool,

or swing in a tree up high?

Oh, what do you do in the summer-time, when all the world is green?

Do you march in parades, or drink lemonades,

or count all the stars in the sky?

Is that what you do?

So do I!

What are your summer plans this week?

Good-Bye Harry

2011-07-15T23:06:00.001-07:00

We did it. We said good-bye. Somewhere around 7:30 p.m. tonight, our little family watched the last of the Harry Potter films. I brought tissues and we cheered and clapped and cried with 400 hundred other people. My most tearful moment came at the end when Harry, Ron and Hermione are shown standing together looking off into the distance. It hit me that that was it. After ten years of films, we will never see another new Harry Potter film.

Some people don't understand the hype and that's fine. Kelly and I have both read and shared the series, and Heather and Jenna have seen all the films. It's been a fun family adventure, and I know it's not for everyone. It was our babysitter, Ashely Snow, who at 13 told us her friend gave her a challenge--to read the first three chapters of book one and see if it interested her. Ashley had done that, and that's what got Kelly into them. It is a very well-written and clever series. If you're ever in the market for a new story, give it a go.

Theater Camp

2011-07-14T22:59:00.000-07:00

My sister and nephew were supposed to be visiting this weekend and next week, but they were unable to come. Since they weren't coming, my girls decided to enroll in the Theater Camp offered by my good friends, Kathy Busby and Diane Christensen. The camp is a two-week adventure exploring all things theater and will end with a performance. They are having a great time with all of the activities. Yesterday, the kids painted shirts. Sarah and Jenna showed up in matching outfits they had planned the night before, and then they helped each other paint matching shirts that they had designed when they were planning their wardrobe.

Heather is having fun with her imagination, and we can't wait to see them perform. Kathy and Diane are outstanding directors who have a great way with the kids. We're so lucky to have this fun opportunity!

Yosemite 2011

2011-07-13T18:45:00.001-07:00

This has got to be one of the most difficult posts in that there were so many pictures to choose from, and I wanted to express the feeling of beauty and majesty we felt with only a handful of the pictures. Our trip to Yosemite this year was just as amazing as last year. We saw the same sites, but they were all uniquely new as there was more snow this year and more snow-pack melting. The rivers were swollen and the waterfalls so swift and powerful. The sights took my breath away all over again. Kelly's brother, Kevin, and his wife, Beth, joined us on day two. It had been several years since they had been in Yosemite, and it had been later in the summer/early fall, so the water levels were down. The sights were just as powerful for them as they were for us. Here is a smattering of the pictures from our trip...

One of three deer we encountered just hanging out in the middle of the Disneyland-like crowds.

The view from our trailer door. Our campsite was amazing and situated just so that we didn't have neighbors to the left of us. It was unreal to wake up to the sound of the water every morning and fall asleep to that sound every night.

There are many cars and day-trip travelers, but those who camp bring bikes. It is so easy to get around to the little village and neighboring trails/waterfalls on a bike. I've never had such a stunning view while riding my bike as I have in the Yosemite valley.

Our first waterfall was the Lower Yosemite Fall. This is the "little" part of the two falls. Ha. The roar of this water was enough to make me nervous!

Our next hike was the Mist Trail going to Vernal Fall and then on to Nevada Fall. It was 7 miles round trip up some very steep rock, but SO worth it.

Here are the girls on the trail to Nevada Falls. You can see the steep climb as well as how large and powerful this waterfall was.

Day three with Kevin and Beth found us at Glacier Point. The entire valley is visible as well as the glaciers not visible from the valley floor. There was a ton of snow still on these glaciers (some is visible to the right of Half-Dome in this photo).

Glacier Point is over 7,000 feet and the view across to Half-Dome (above) at 8,000 feet is amazing. Below you can see the Vernal and Nevada Falls we hiked to as well as the Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls.

Vernal and Nevada Falls

Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls

The Merced River was like having a swimming pool in our backyard for five days. The girls couldn't get enough of it. Kelly joined them a few times while I, without a wet suit, could not stand the water for very long without losing feeling in my extremities. This was melted snow people!

On our last night, Kevin and Beth gave Heather her birthday presents. She got some darling clothes, a Justice gift card, and Just Dance 2 for the Wii. Heather was in Heaven!

Most evenings we sat around the campfire recuperating from our hikes and/or playing games. Both our families love to play games so we have lots of willing players. This was such a great trip that we can't help but want to make it a yearly tradition.

Floods and Campsite Closures

2011-07-05T23:45:00.000-07:00

We're headed to Yosemite in the morning. As of June 15, news reports indicated closures in campsites along the Merced river due flooding. We are hoping to find our river-side campsite open when we arrive tomorrow afternoon. We'll call in the morning to make sure our campsite is not under water. And take a dingy.

Things we're looking forward to this week...

waterfalls

hiking

picnic lunches

bike rides

campfires

s'mores

games

starry nights

family time

Our 4th Celebration

2011-07-04T23:00:00.000-07:00

We had a sort of quiet celebration this year. With no Stake 4th of July show taking up the majority of our morning and afternoon, we were free to focus on packing for Yosemite and relaxing. I did laundry all day, made a trip to WalMart for necessities (and some not so necessary fun things), and Kelly spent most of the day prepping the trailer and other camping essentials. We had a nice barbecue dinner with chicken and salmon burgers, corn on the cob and baked beans. Kelly and the girls found some time to play a little ATV on the Play station, and we opened our box of Pop Its, our version of fireworks in the city where they are outlawed. While throwing Pop Its everywhere, we were treated to some area fireworks that lit up the sky. We probably should have been way more celebratory, but we are out of practice! Usually we have the show and are too tired to do anything else. Next year we'll have to do something a little more exciting, although, I think today went just right for the hub as he likes chillin' out with his girls.