Yellowstone, day 8

Saturday we left Canyon, and toured Old Faithful on our way out of the park. My niece, Madison, nephew Gabe, and Emma decided to do the "Young Scientist" project that would take them on a trek all around the Old Faithful geyser basin. They had to find out if geysers and hot springs were alive or not alive, follow a map to a mystery location, and then talk to a Ranger about what they learned. It's all very serious work. The Rangers do not take this lightly. They go through the booklet page by page, and make sure the kids fully understand what they have learned about. It's a nice way to teach them about the geology of such a unique place.

Here are Madison, Gabe, Maggie, and Emma in front of the sign for Old Faithful. This was the last day in the park, but certainly one of the funnest!

Madison and Emma showing off their "Young Scientist" booklets. They worked very hard for the key chain they received for completing it. Maggie and my littler nephew Eli also did a worksheet about animals they spotted while in the park, and received a "police badge", as Maggie likes to call it. So cute.

Yellowstone, day 7

Friday we headed north to Mammoth Hot Springs. Not my favorite part of Yellowstone due to the lack of trees and water. As I kid I remember Mammoth overflowing with water, but now it's pretty much bone dry, save a few small hot springs. However, despite my telling Emma repeatedly how it was not worth the hiking of countless steps, she insisted on finding out for herself. A quality I choose not to squash. But Maggie has little 3 year-old legs, not designed for hiking countless steps, and with a storm approaching, she and I decided to stay behind and enjoy some Raspberry Sherbet ice cream.

We had to hurry back to Canyon for our BBQ with Troy and Kelli and their kids that evening, so Mammoth was a quick trip. However, on the way back we were treated to a viewing of a Mamma Grizzly bear with 2 cubs. They were visible, just "bearly", through the binoculars, so a picture would have been futile. Besides, with my fear of bears, she was plenty close. The BBQ was great fun, the kids got filthy in the dirt, and no one was set on fire. A bonus, for sure.

Yellowstone, day 6

Thursday was pretty uneventful, as Yellowstone goes. We saw some wildlife, had a little rain storm, and hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to see the Lower Falls. This year the road to the parking lot of the Lower Falls was closed for repairs, so really the only good way to see the falls was to hike down. It was a beautiful hike, especially after the rain.


After the hike down, we hung out for a bit in the mist of the falls and from the sky. The hike up was much, much harder, as you can imagine. After we got to the top, the skies opened up and we were treated to a real downpour. I'm glad we didn't get stuck in it on the trail!

Now on to the elaboration of Sean's fire starting skills. Raise of hands: Who knows that fire will ignite gasoline fumes? Everyone? That's what I thought. After starting a small fire in our pit, Sean was dissatisfied with the size. So brilliantly, he decided to go get the gas can. 6 gallons, my friends. Just as he's about to pour the gas on the fire, I pipe up telling him that it will ignite the can. Ha! I was no boyscout, but I do know what's up with fire. Well, on goes the gasoline, and up go the flames. Up to the can. Fire spewing out the nozzle. He tips the gas can over, and now there's fire all over the ground. He grabs a bottle of water off the picnic table, and it only had but a teaspoon of water in it! Finally, after what seemed like hours, He was able to stomp the fire out. But only after a futile yet hilarious attempt of blowing out the flames. Remember the fires of '88? Me too. Now we know not to use a gas can to "motivate" a fire. We should be satisfied with the size of our fire.

Yellowstone, day 5

Water Wednesday!

Wednesday we rented a boat on Yellowstone Lake. Of all the years we've been there, we've never seen Yellowstone from the water. It's a beautiful, if cold, lake, with lots of birds and wildlife and fish. Maggie was the first one in the boat, she loved every minute of it. Emma, not so much. She though for sure the boat would tip over if she so much as moved the wrong way. Gretta fell sound asleep as soon as the life jacket was zipped up. It was a little chilly, but not bad, just right for zooming around.

We have no idea who these girls are. We do know that after hours of driving around on the lake on their day off, suddenly the boat wouldn't start. I'm sure it had nothing to do with the fact that they had several "mugs" full of who knows what, and it wasn't the waves making them walk all crazy. As you see, the driver could barely keep her cookies as we towed them to the marina. They all work at Old Faithful as servers and bus girls and the like. I guess they just needed to blow off some steam. Ha ha ha. I guess it gave us the opportunity to do service to others. Lucky us.

Yellowstone, day 4

Tuesday we had to change campgrounds, from Bridge Bay, to Fishing Bridge, just 4 miles up the road. After hooking all the trailer necessities up, Sean decided to ride his bike from Bridge Bay Marina to West Thumb Junction, about 19 miles away. This left us in a sort-of situation. I don't mind driving around with the trailer hooked up, but I'm not great at backing it in to tight camp spots. I can do it, I just don't love it. So, the girls and I decided we'd give Sean a few minutes head start, and catch up with him just before West Thumb. This way, I didn't have to park the trailer, and we could get some good Mom/Daughter time. Well, we ended up catching Sean about 10 miles in to his ride, so we had some time to kill. At this point, I saw a nice pull-out right on the beach, with a little sandbar to keep the water calm. A perfect way to kill some time. Or so I thought.
Welcome to Leach Beach. Emma found a "cute little inchworm" crawling across her hand. When we tried to pull it off, it was firmly stuck. We found one a while later on Maggie's hand that was significantly larger, and full of her blood! When it came off, it left a big glob of blood on her hand! Gross! Surprisingly, my kids didn't freak out too bad. And after a good outdoor shower to make sure all the little suckers were gone, we went on our merry way.

We went on to explore West Thumb that day, and then proceeded on to Fishing Bridge, where we took part in the Ranger Campfire Program about the fires of 1988. After nearly 20 years, and visiting the Park every year since, I can say that this year the growth is the most noticeable. The trees are beautiful, and are just high enough to hide the rest of the barren landscape, making it seem like "normal". I remember the fire of 1988 so clearly. We were water skiing on Jackson Lake that summer, and could see so much smoke even from 100 miles away. I can't believe it's been 19 years. My how time flies.

Yellowstone, day 3

What's this? A what? A buffalo? A bison? What's the difference?

Monday morning we awoke to this. A buffalo, (or buttalow, as Maggie says), in our campground. In our camp site. Well, nearly. It was right next door!

We spent most of Monday sleeping in, and later, driving to Old Faithful.

This is the only photo of actual "Old Faithful", and I'm not really sure who that hoochie mamma is in the background. But Sean was in charge of the camera at this point, so I'm sure we can all speculate what he was really taking pictures of.

We walked all through the Old Faithful Basin to see the various hot pots and geysers. We got a lot of strange looks due to Gretta's helmet situation, and we all got a little bit sunburned. It was over 90 degrees, a heat wave for that neck of the Caldera.

Yellowstone, day 2

Sunday we drove to the park from Jacob and Amy's house. It's only about an hour and a half, so not too far. But the part that takes forever is actually driving through the park. 12 miles can take an hour or more, thanks to Buffalo and Elk jams.


We found our campsite, and to my chagrin, (does that word make sense here?) our next-site-neighbors had 2 German Shepherds, and get this, a Pit Bull! At a CAMPGROUND! Duh. So we had to find a new site, not an easy task when it's full. But luckily the reservations lady understood my plight.

After we hooked up the generators and set out chairs, we took to making S'Mores. Yummy! We also saw a shooting star, and a satellite go by. The girls were having a great time by the fire, and that includes Gretta, who thinks fire is a good friend to chat with.

Sean is a great fire starter. More on that later.

Self Portrait Tuesday

Embrace your Geekness!

Oh, boy, was this easy for me! I'm a geek, through and through. As I wondered what exactly to take a picture of, I was flooded with ideas. Finally, Sean brought Google Earth to my attention. This is my latest geekness. I get sucked in. Bad. So, I thought it fitting to do a picture of me in front of the computer with Google Earth by my side. So geeky.



Other ways in which I am geeky:

1. I wear the same clothes day after day. Really.
2. I was surfing the net in bed on my BlackBerry last night.
3. I enjoy many late night shows on Geology, Space, Volcanoes, Earthquakes, etc.
   
4. For some reason, I remember useless factoids about things. Like the Hoover Dam was built in Black Canyon. And Yellowstone Lake is 600 feet deep, and hides an old steamer ship that is now used for scuba diving adventures. Random crap.
5. I use words like "factoids".
   

So there you have it. Don't judge me.

Missed me?

Sorry to leave you all hanging. A week is a long time to be gone. Yellowstone was a blast, as always, and never disappoints. After seeing that I had taken 143 pictures, I've decided to do an 8 days of Yellowstone tribute, with an overlap for tomorrows SPT, of course. So count today's post for day 1.

A special thanks to Jake and Amy for letting us crash at their pad for a night. They have quite the "little" farm going on up there in Idaho Falls. My kids pretty much walked in the front door, and ran downstairs to play. We didn't see them for the next 6 hours. Excellent. Amy and I had an adventure to Wal-Mart to buy baby Tylenol and trash mags. She's not such a good back seat driver. Left, no right. No, left! Good times. We'll definitely be heading their way again. Amy cooked dinner and breakfast for us, and as you can see on her blog, Sean and I got to scope out their property on the 4-wheeler. Unfortunately, there are no pictures of our nights stay. I just couldn't bear to put the one we took up on the blog. 3 chins isn't flattering for anyone, especially me, and it's my blog!

Stay tuned for tomorrow's day 2, and for SPT, embrace your geekness.

Self Portrait Tuesday

This weeks Self Portrait Tuesday/Thursday:

Yankee Doodle Dandy!

We spent the 4th of July in Sun Valley, Idaho with our friends Rob and Laura. I had never been there, but now, it ranks on top of my list of places to return. It is so beautiful up there. The mountains, the little "downtown" of Sun Valley, even Ketchum was a fun little place.





We rode the ski lift up to see the valley below, and it was worth the 25 minute trip. Despite this picture from the summit, I am not pregnant. I'm not really sure what happened there.


On our way back into the Salt Lake Valley last night, we were able to see fireworks from Brigham City, North Ogden, Weber, Roy, Bountiful, and one that we couldn't really agree on. I thought they were coming from Willard/Farr West area, but Sean was sure it wasn't. Either way, it was cool seeing all the shows. It was like our own little welcome home party.

Party time!

My lovely husband, embracing his "WT". Later that night he observed that he got some sun on his chest and back. He wondered how that happened. I told him it was because he hadn't had a shirt on since noon!

















Here you see him throwing more lighter fluid on an already lighted fire. Hmmm, pyro anyone?















This is my super cool bro. Sorry ladies, he's taken. He's the favorite child. We all know this, and we all understand why. He's our favorite too.












And this is the lady that took him. Kelli with my nephews Eli and Gabe. They had so much fun in the pool, we had to practically throw them out. I think we only had 2 close calls this time, and Eli didn't even seem to mind nearly slipping under water. He's mellow like that.

Zoo Pals!

I have no idea whose butt that is in this shot, and I didn't even notice her at the time. Oops.



Hogle Zoo has come a long way since I was a kid. The train is the same, as is the Giraffe "display", but the Rhinos and Elephants have a whole new habitat thanks to millions of taxpayer dollars.
Emma and Mags on the train. I couldn't believe Maggie went without me. I just didn't feel like unloading a sleeping kid, a diaper bag and a camera all for a 5 minute ride.

Thank you, delay wash.

Flylady, eat your heart out. With a tiny baby taking up most of my mornings, a load a day has turned into a load at 4:00 in the morning that was loaded the night before. Now I can keep up, and not have to worry about stinky, mildewy clothes that have been sitting in water all night long. Genius!

Self Portrait Tuesday

This weeks Self Portrait Tuesday:

Hello!



I am: Keli Clayton
I live: in Utah
I love: my family, friends, laughing, swimming, golf, summer, food, traveling, saying the first thing that pops in my head, anything fun!
I hate: having my picture taken, boring people, politics, watching what I say.
I need: a housekeeper, a cook, better self-esteem, to watch what I say.
I want: a new car, my kids to be happy, summer to last all year, to be more social, to be less judgmental, to always have fun!

That's pretty much me in a nutshell. Enjoy the heavily retouched photo.

Here it is!

Here is the famed helmet. This is going to be G's precious skull candy for the next 3-6 months.

An eye for an eye?

Last week we were excited to see my dad with a new truck. His turn has been passed over a couple of times by other, more pressing vehicle needs. It was about time he upgraded. After all, his old Dodge was over 4 years old and had nearly 30,000 miles on it! The travesty! Sean and I decided to take the new member of the family for a speedy test drive while Poppa stayed and watched the kiddies. We drove out of the neighborhood and started looking around at all the nifty gadgets and gizmos. An MP3 dock, a laptop capable center console, extra cupholders, rogue teeth. Teeth you ask? Yes, I reply. Here, in the cupholder, sits a perfectly good incisor. Well, maybe "perfectly" is a little bit of a stretch, but it's a tooth, nonetheless. What is this, gas costs an arm and a leg, crime is punished with an eye for an eye, and new trucks cost teeth? Remind me to enjoy my old car for a while longer. I'm not ready to give up my teeth. Besides, our tooth fairy pays $5 for teeth, and that's nearly a gallon of gas these days!

So there you have it. The story of the rogue tooth. Hopefully this is the last of the new trucks, I'm not sure the dealership can get much of a return on a rotted out molar.

I've been inspi(red)

After seeing so many cute new crafty ideas out there, and also seeing Grannybabs' new sewing room, I'm thinking of getting myself a sewing machine. I have all sorts of aspirations of quilts, clothes, aprons, and other crafts, and I'm pretty sure Mom-in-law won't appreciate me invading her home every day all summer long. Besides, I think I need to show my girls that an old dog can learn new tricks.

So I'm taking suggestions. Any help will be much appreciated, since I have basically no knowledge of sewing or machines.

Red Butte

Yesterday was spent doing two wonderful things. First, we were able to walk through Red Butte Gardens at the University of Utah, and enjoy all the beauty that is nature. For the record, this was Maggie's personal Hell. She hates nature. Bugs, flowers, plants, wildlife, bees, it all scares the crap out of her. Which is why she is nowhere to be seen in this cute picture of Nunn and her Grandkids in "Granny's Garden". She was hiding next to me to get away from the bees.





The other wonderful thing was very unexpected. As we approached the turn into Red Butte, there were several signs telling us the Indigo Girls concert was sold out. Wow, one of my all time fave bands, and they were here in Salt Lake! Too bad it was sold out. Oh well. Well, as we were walking through the gardens, turns out the Gals themselves were doing their warm-up and sound checks. We got to hear several great IG songs. It was a nice treat to be walking through the lavender fields, listening to great acoustic music, and enjoying it all with my family. Makes me very grateful for the blessings I have.

Okay, okay, no more mushy stuff. We then returned to Nunn and Poppa's house for Rock Creek Pizza and slip and slide action. Good times.

Self Portrait Tuesday

This weeks self portrait Tuesday included having a loved one take a picture of you (or me, in this case), and tell you (me) what they love about it. I've decided to pass on this SPT. Not a surprise for those of you that know me. I hate, hate, hate having my picture taken. I know the camera adds ten pounds, but why does it seem like I must have dozens of cameras on me? Maybe I can scrounge up something I'll actually not be disgusted by and put it up, but it's doubtful. So stay tuned for next weeks SPT. Sorry to disappoint.

Personal DNA

Take your own personal DNA test. Interesting.

Space oddysey

Last night we were privy to a special flyover. The International Space Station made a pass across our night sky at precisely 10:56 PM. The kids thought it was pretty cool to see the bright light zoom across the sky, knowing that there were people aboard. Tonight it will appear again, and if we had a decent telescope, we would be able to see the Space Shuttle Atlantis undock from the Space Station. Neat stuff.

Happy Father's Day, Dad!

We love you, and we're so glad you're our dad!


You rock!

Anyone who can help?

Okay, I've never copped to being a computer person, but I've learned a lot through blogging. Although I admit, I still have PLENTY to learn. Plenty. Like this:

How do I change the font on my posts and titles? I downloaded a cute "Will and Grace" font, and it's installed, but when I click on the font button on the posting page, it's not there. Just the same old ones. FYI, for any helpers out there, I use Firefox, and an iMac.

Self Portrait Tuesday

Sorry, I'm a day late. Crazy day yesterday.

Self Portrait Tuesday:
As American as apple pie.

Oh beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain. For purple mountain majesty, above the fruited plain.

These are beautiful mountains that sum up to me what America means. Strength, freedom, majesty, recreation, and life-giving.

Ye Helmut of Olde

We had our doctor visit today. Gretta officially has the weirdest shaped head I've ever seen. And it appears the Surgeon concurs. So in a week to ten days from today, she will no longer be known as Gretta, but as Helmut. Yes people, she will be wearing a helmet. Hopefully a cute, pink camo helmet. And hopefully it will only take 3 months to correct that weird shaped head. Then she can resume being the worlds cutest baby.

Happy Father's Day, and Park City Fun!

Well, the weekend shaped up nicely for us. After a crazy week of school getting out for Emma, and late work nights for Sean, we decided to head up to Park City for a quick weekend trip. Some serious relaxation was in order. Park City is so beautiful this time of year. Not too hot, and close enough that we can get there in a half hour, and still feel like we're on vacation. We did lots of fun touristy stuff that we always mean to do, but never make time for. Emma, Maggie and I rode the chair lift up the mountain to see the valley below. Sean and Gretta shopped for sweatshirts while we were on our little jaunt. We rode the main street trolley, and had lunch at the Park City Pizza and Noodle Factory. Yummy! We all took a nap on Saturday afternoon after our long day of shopping, sightseeing, and of course swimming. You'd think having a pool at home would deter the need to swim on vacation, but I think it just makes it more appealing.




And now on to the "Happy Father's Day" portion of our entertainment. Sean hit a road hazard last week and blew out a tire. "A" tire. As in ONE. But what does needing one new $200 tire mean in man talk? New 20" wheels and tires, of course! I guess they never grow up. Oh well, now I'm off the hook for a gift, and he's happy as a clam. For now. I'm sure it won't be long until he wants a chip to make the truck that much faster. Men. Ha! What can ya do?

Happy Birthday Jill!

Thirty four, forever more?

Happy Birthday Livvy!

She's 7, and so cute!

Love you Livvy!

Self Portrait Tuesday

This weeks Self Portrait Tuesday:

The colors of your world. I think it was more of a task to find a favorite color, but I just love color. Most colors. And I'm not afraid to show it. I'm pretty sure this is the most colorful stairwell I've ever seen.

Summer has begun!

Saturday consisted of several things. First, waking up at the butt crack of dawn to feed a hungry babe. Second, making 2 pans of chicken enchiladas, 1 pan of beef enchiladas, 1 pan of au gratin potatoes, and a run to Target for cheese.
Third, spending the remainder of the afternoon laying out by the pool, worshiping the skin cancer Gods. And fourth, participating in a Ward progressive dinner. It was interesting. I think every Ward has it's weirdo's, and somehow we got paired with all of them! Lucky us! I guess no ward will ever compare to the Ward you grew up in, right?
Which leads me to a dilemma.

If you could move back to your home ward, would you? Would it be weird to go back "home" as a grown up when you grew up there?

And what if it meant living in an older home? Would you?

Yesterday

What was yesterday, you ask?

Well, first of all, it was my parents' 39th anniversary.

And apparently it was the anniversary of several others as well.

Second, it was a blue moon.

And third, my dad had his appendix rupture!

So I guess this means their appendversary only comes once in a blue moon!

HA!

2 things

• Happy 39th (?) Anniversary to my awesome parents. (insert picture that has somehow vanished from my computer here)
  

• And I'd like to give a hearty shout out to the checker at Wal-Mart for, despite a screaming baby and a toddler peeing her pants, needing to do a price check on a greeting card. 'Preciate ya.
  

A little indulgence

Thanks to my cute friend Brittany for giving me this idea.

I think it's important for us to focus on our good qualities and talents. Sometimes this can feel selfish or indulgent, but it helps us realize that we all have worth. Whether we have a full time job, a part time job, no job, stay at home, home school, are social butterflies, or shy wall flowers, we need to remember our selves. So here goes.

5 things I've accomplished this week:

1. Stayed current on my laundry.
2. Gave my mom a haircut.
3. Made a grocery list a mile long!
4. Checked the pool twice a day.
5. Cleaned my bathroom, the girls bathroom, and the nursery.

5 things I'm good at:

1. Taking care of my home. I like a clean, fairly organized place to live.
2. Getting up in the middle of the night. This just doesn't bother me.
3. Finding humor in just about everything.
4. Taking care of my kids. They might look like orphans occasionally, but I let them dress themselves and brush their own hair. I think it's good to have them assert their independence.
5. Relaxing. I love to lay by the pool and just chill.

5 things that make me feel good:

1. Seeing my kids learn new skills. Potty training, swimming, smiling, you name it.
2. When I hear Sean's truck pull in the driveway after work.
3. Accomplishing 1 task a day. Maybe it's laundry, dejunking a drawer, or dusting.
4. The smell of Gretta in the morning. I don't know what it is, maybe the diaper full of pee, or the spit up down her neck. But seriously, that is the best smell in the world after a night of good sleep. And seeing that sweet smile just makes it better.
5. 500 thread count sheets. Like butter.

5 things I love:

1. My home
2. My family
3. Pictures of other people
4. Vacations
5. My life

5 things I like to do:

1. Laugh at everything (and everyone!)
2. Catch up with friends and family
3. Blog
4. Nap
5. Eat good food

Fry those babies up!

We had a fun Memorial day, busy for sure.

7 AM Breakfast at my mom's house.
11AM Cook up bacon for the summer salad (see recipe exchange for recipe!)
12PM Arrive at cemetery for Veteran's Program
1 PM Arrive at Aunt Julie's for BBQ with ENTIRE family.

3 PM Enjoy Nap
6 PM Arrive at Troy and Kelli's house for Tempura Party.
9 PM Finally home for the night!

Wait, tempura party, you ask? What could that be? I said the same thing. Pretty much it's where you tempura fry anything you can think of. The above pic is of the yummy veggies we did. Sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini, onions, potatoes, green peppers, and peas. But then we had to mix it up a little. Pickles. Not so good. Beef jerky, pretty tasty. Sushi, yeah, yummy. Snickers and Twix, heavenly.

We had a great time. In fact I think we had so much fun we made the earth move! (there was a small earthquake that night, like a 2.5).

Self Portrait Tuesday

What's in your wallet?

Well, I don't really carry a wallet, per se, but more of a large duffel bag. Shall we play a little game of "I Spy"?

1. Wipes.
2. Diapers.
3. Purple first aid kit.
4. Glasses.
5. Burp cloth.
6. Bib.
7. Wallet.
8. Hand sanitizer.
9. Pen. (which by the way, I can never find!)
10. Knife. (that has been overlooked by many an airport security camera, and not on purpose!)

And the white thing next to my wallet is a sock. 1 sock. With a sticky purple star shaped earring stuck to it. Not really sure how that ended up in there, both the sock and the earring. And I'm certainly unsure of where the other sock is!
So there is my life in a bag. I feel so.....free.

I think that about does it.

Bumbo Gal

We made a trip to Target today, (say it Tar-Zhay), and picked up this cute little thing.






I thought getting Gretta up off her head and giving her a reason to strengthen her neck muscles would help with the Physical Therapy. I had never heard of Bumbo until I watched some show and they had them on.





Now if only I could get those hands out of her mouth for longer than 1 second to get a picture of her!

Rice Rice, Baby.

After our visit with the pediatrician, she gave us the all clear to start solids!

At this point, it's more for practice than actual nutrition, but considering Gretta got most of it in her mouth, she got a good amount of nutrition anyway! As you can see, she wasn't too sure of it at first, but then we got smile after smile after each and every spoonful. Dang, she's a cutie!

4 months

Vital Stats:

11 pounds, 14 ounces

26 1/2 inches long.

Freakin' cute.


On a side note, it seems as though G has a case of plagiocephaly torticollis. A fancy schmancy name for a crooked head and tight neck muscles. A little Physical Therapy and a visit to a plastic surgeon should do the trick.

They say it's your birthday....

dun nuh nuh nuh. Happy Birthday To Carter!!!

My oldest nephew turns 11 today!!! 11!!! Wow, I was in college when he was born. I can't believe it's been 11 years! Time truly flies.

Self Portrait Tuesday

Old friends, new friends.

This is not the best picture of Gretta, but it is the only (?) picture I can find of my newest bestest friend Laura. And it's not even a good one of her! I guess I'll have to do some serious picture taking at the pool this summer. Laura and I have lived by each other for nearly 5 years now. We have been friends for 3 of those years. I'm not sure why we weren't friends before that, but it doesn't really matter. I first met laura at the pool, and then we were made visiting teaching partners shortly thereafter. But we really didn't become fast friends until one fateful weekend in July of '05. We decided to take the trailer and head to Aspen for a long weekend to watch Laura's husband Rob race his mountain bike. We had a series of weird events happen on that trip. It started with running out of fuel on I-70 exactly half way between Green River Utah, and Fruita Colorado. At 3:00 AM. That was one expensive tank of fuel. We had to wait on the side of the road for the truck to bring us the diesel, and we sat on lawn chairs under the full moon and chatted. On the side of the freeway. What a sight we were. Then later that weekend Laura and I decided to hit the spa. Turns out they had some freaky "vapor caves" under the spa which supposedly released toxins from your skin with their natural healing properties. HA! They were like sweaty mine shafts that smelled like rotten eggs! It was a total Ghetto spa. But we still had fun. Then Rob rubbed Ben-Gay on his boy parts, crashed and beat up his shoulder, and we drove home in a hurricane! It was good times. Laura is a great friend. She brought me treats when I was put on bed rest. She shares her trash mags with me and makes awesome food. She emails me everyday, just to say "hi", and some how she just knows that good food, sun, and a good magazine make my day! She's the best!

Sean and I go way back. Way, way back. Back all the way to Kindergarten. And maybe more, but I don't recall. So that definitely qualifies him as my oldest friend. And my dearest, of course. I realize that just "knowing" someone for years doesn't automatically qualify them as a friend, but the thing about Sean and I is that we have been friends this entire time. We have always had a special connection, even in the early days. Who would have ever thought that after years of saying he was "just Sean", we would end up falling in love. Insert "awwww" here. Not that our love and friendship hasn't been without its ups and downs, but alas, love is a turbulent ride. All these years we have sworn that it is our friendship roots that keep us together and also gives us the silly humor we share.

Swedish Meatballs and Baby food!

I recently received the mailer for our new Ikea that will be opening in 2 days. I'm an Ikea virgin, never been there, never ordered anything, I don't think I've even sat my butt in an Ikea chair. But after reading through the mailer and seeing that they serve Swedish Meatballs and baby food at their cafeteria, I was quite excited. More for the meatballs than the baby food, but I'm sure Gretta will get excited about that in a few months from now. I also found a nice bookcase and desk that will compliment my home nicely. So be prepared for some serious home updating pictures to follow.

I'm looking forward to seeing what all the fuss is about. I can only hope it will live up to my expectations. I'm sure it will.

edit: I braved the crowds of people on Wednesday, May 23, for the opening day of Ikea. It was all I could have ever wanted. For those of you familiar with the area, the roads getting to Ikea way were all closed, save one, which was being used only for one way traffic to the store. The traffic was backed up from Bangerter Highway and 200 West, around the boat shop, and through a field. And despite being so busy, they kept traffic moving steadily, and parking was very organized. I actually got a front row spot! Inside was a different story. So many people. I didn't buy anything. With 2 kids, and small cart, and lots of stuff I wanted, there was no way I could have carried it all. Besides, I want to go back with Sean so he can partake of the Ikea paradise.

The case of the missing popsicle

We're having a crisis right now. I let Maggie enjoy the last orange dreamsicle, and it seems to have disappeared. I can't find any evidence of it. No stick, no orange drippings, not even an orange mustache on the little devil herself.

Where could it be?

And on a side note, we will no longer by buying orange dreamsicles.





Edit: Thanks to Michelle for asking about the Popsicle. The latest update is I never did find any evidence of the popsicle. I never found an orange puddle, an orange stick, or even an orange mustache on the dog. I guess Maggie ate it, stick and all.

I am a Daffodil What Flower Are You?

It's bananas, B A N A N A S.

I made banana bread yesterday. Let's just call it banana brick. The ends turned out nice, but it is all soggy in the middle. Even after an hour of cooking and the top getting almost burned. I'm not a baker. I know this, but I still try.


And on a side note, where does all the brown stuff come from inside the banana bread? You know, the little lines of black? I always thought people put a special ingredient in there to make it do that, but I only used bananas, butter, flour, sugar, egg, and baking soda. What makes it do that?

Playground Politics

This last Friday Emma tried out for her school talent show assembly. She was so excited to do it, and even though we only had 2 days notice to practice, we threw together a song from Toy Story 2 for her to sing. She has a beautiful voice, and gets lots of practice singing Primary songs every night in bed. But you can't sing Primary songs at school.


We waited patiently for her turn, clapping after each and every child played their instruments or sang their songs. One child in particular even played a song with one finger, one note at a time. There were also 2 guitar players, and they were pretty good.


Finally, it was Emma's turn. She was nervous, and so was I frankly. I knew she would do well, but it's a very scary thing for a second grader to get up in front of her peers and sing. I started playing, and she came in right on cue. Every note perfect. She even held the last notes like we had practiced. Perfect. I was so proud of her.


Monday they announce the finalists for the assembly. Guitar players, check. Karate kid, check. Girl that played the piano with one finger and one note at a time, check. Emma the singing wonder kid, nope.


What? You ask? Let's just say I'm pretty sure that if I was at the school all day everyday like one finger piano playing girl's mom, Emma would be in the assembly. Why do they have to crush the dreams of second graders? Why can't there be a class talent show so all the kids can do what they wish? And why is it that I know life is full of disappointment, but I feel like I want to shelter my kids from that as long as possible?


I used this as an opportunity for growth, stating such obvious facts as "you have talents that can't always be shown in a talent show", and "I know you are more talented than all of those kids put together". And yet she still cried. And I felt like crying with her. I feel guilty for not being more involved in her classroom, knowing if I was, she wouldn't be dealing with this. I feel guilty for feeling guilty about that, knowing that I don't want to be part of the politics of second grade. But what's a mother to do? Do I call the teacher and ask why? Do I just let it go and forget the heartache I saw on Emma's face that day? Do I enroll her in piano lessons so she will learn how to play the piano with one finger, one note at a time?


I've always said parenting gets harder as kids get older. Not the kind of parenting where you're up all night, or not sure which shape of binkie to buy. But the kind of parenting where you have to pray constantly for guidance and help. And now I know I have entered that realm of parenting. I pray everyday for the safety and well-being of my kids. And now I pray that some how they can overcome the challenges of life and use those challenges to make them better people. It is what we all have dealt with, but I was just hoping I could put it off a little longer. At least until third grade.

Self Portrait Tuesday

Wow, Tuesday already. This is shaping up to be a good week. This weeks challenge was for Mother's Day. Pay a tribute to your mom in a special way by showing what she has taught you throughout the years.

This is what my mom has taught me. The power of a good family. She has done so much to keep us all together. She has us all (count them, 6 grandkids, sometimes 6 second cousins, and 3 of us kids plus our spouses, totaling 18!) over to her house every Sunday evening and happily makes brownies, cakes or whatever to keep up happy. We have great conversation knowing that we can say whatever is on our minds without being judged. We celebrate our birthdays, any holiday, and she cooks us turkey dinner for Conference Sundays. We do everything together, thanks to her. When we think of going to dinner, on vacation, or just hanging out at the pool, our family automatically comes to mind. I think part of this unity comes from the fact that my mom has worked with (for?) my dad for the last 38 or so years. Everyday. All day. And they are still married. From this she has taught us all patience, and long suffering. ;)

So thanks, Mom. Because of you we will always be friends. We would be even if we weren't family. You've taught me well. I hope I can teach my kids the lessons you've taught me and in such a good manner.

Mother's Day

After a particularly upsetting Mother's Day, (details to follow), I started thinking about what I wish for my kids. Here's what I came up with:

To be good people.
To be sincere.
To have a good sense of worth.
To know they can rely on their family.
To be independent.
To be courageous.
To be content.
To be achievers.
To be quiet when necessary.
To have a wicked sense of humor.
To love.
To be loved.
To grow old.
To stay young.
To make good decisions.
To stay true to who they are.

I know there are a lot of contradictions there, but isn't that what life pretty much is? Seeing the full circle of family makes me realize I only have a short time to mold and shape my kids into the adults they will become. I think all I can do is tell them and show them how much they are loved, and hope and pray that they stay true to the Gospel and to what they believe inside.

You tell 'em, Oprah!

My super sweet friend Brittany,
is so like Oprah. 'Cept, she's not black. Or fat. Or a talk show host.

But she likes to ask questions. And these are the 4 she chose for me.

1. If you could choose Sean's next wife for him, whom would you choose?
I think I would have to choose someone cute and smart, and rich. So basically me, sans the rich and smart part. If I had to put a name on someone, I would say Jenny McCarthy. I think she is so cute. And she has a pretty perverted sense of humor, so her and Sean would get along just fine.

2. Who will play Keli in the Keli movie?

Pamela Anderson, who else?

3. Would you rather tongue kiss your father-in-law or lick a toilet bowl? (does Charlie read your blog??)

Have you met my father in law?


4. Besides life's necessities, what do you spend the most money on?

Ha ha ha, lotions and potions. And scrapbooking crap. I likey me paper.

5. What accomplishment are you most proud of?

Of course, my 3 beautiful girls. They are so sweet and loving, and are very independent, which I love. I'm also proud of my marriage. We've worked hard for a lot of years to get this far, and It's nice to have some one who sticks with me through all the yucky stuff!

Close up

Well, here it is. This is not my ring, but the ring of someone I love dearly. My sister Meg got engaged last night! It's about time!!! We love Ty, and have a certain fondness for him since they were set up with help of some good friends of ours, and a little help from circumstance.


We met Ty at a pool party for the neighborhood. He is friends with our good friends Rob and Laura. Meg came to the party too, but had a boyfriend at the time. She and I stood outside the pool late talking girl stuff when Ty drove by to go home. She remarked about how fun he was and that he was her type. It was then I knew there was something there. Fast forward a month or so. Meg and said boyfriend were on the outs, and we had a trip planned to Brian Head to see Ty and Rob race mountain bikes. Somehow we talked Meg into coming, and we took her road bike as collateral. I knew if her bike was there, she would surely follow. Ty was planning on staying in the trailer with us even though he had only met us once before. So unlike Ty. He's a little shy. But he knew Meg was coming and was interested, so he toughed it out with Sean and I until she arrived late that night. Several times that weekend, Meg and Ty would be found walking together talking and laughing, and we knew it was a match made in heaven. And now, nearly a year later, they are making plans to spend their lives together. We couldn't be happier.

What's this I found?

What a strange piece of laundry. This basket is G's latest mode of transport from upstairs to downstairs. Despite the look on her face, she really does love it.