I can't believe how time flies! Wait--yes I can. It is really amazing to see how our family made it all the way through 2008. We had ups and downs, but mostly ups and for that we are so thankful. Dave no longer has such a loooooong commute, yeah! We definately see him more and are back on track with "Family Night"--(not momily night) and we are loving it. The kids love our Taco Tuesday night of picking up taco's for really cheap and finding a new park to go to each week. It is one way to help them learn the days of the week! We love our new neighborhood and the friends we have met.
We are also thankful for the many family members and friends who have referred others to Acorn Academy. I was very uncertain with how the turn out would be due to starting so late, but it is all coming together and each of my students have made it such a huge success this year! I am really looking forward to this fall to continue teaching. Madison has been a real trooper and is making some adjustments with mom being her teacher. She is such a great helper with getting lessons ready, coloring , cutting and preparations for class. I really couldn't do it without all of her help! It will be sad to not have her in class with me next year, but at the same time it will be really good for Jacob to stand on his own!
All of the kids are doing great! This last year Madison turned 5, Jacob 3 and Brooklyn 1! They are sooo fun and add so much to my life. I am beginning to settle down as a mom--finally--and enjoy most of the moments we have together. We work through the tantrums, the independence and the manipulation--and at the end of the day I get to peek in on the slumbering little ones and kiss them goodnight! I love those last good night kisses!
As for Christmas pictures, I will post them soon. I realize I need a blog with pictures--so I will get on it.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Christmas Devotional
Wow! I just feel a need to jot a little down about this evenings First Presidency Christmas Devotional. This is the first time I have been in the same room as President Monson, since he was sustained prophet. There is such a big difference for me to be there compared to watching it at home. I am convinced even more so now, that he really is our Prophet, called to lead us during these days.
The messages shared tonight were clear and simple. Christmas is about our Savior. As mentioned in the Devotional, it is probably a Divine intervention, that the economy is struggling. Most of us are able to set aside the worldly ideals and focus on the simplicity of Christmas. Dave and I have been trying to keep it very simple for our 3 small children, but I feel more inclined to do so now. I really believe that it is far more important to teach them about the Christmas story and how it applies to us now.
I am thankful for children who delight in the small things in life. Making gingerbread pancakes and frosting them with cool whip to make them white like snowmen, decorating the tree and then sleeping under it, thinking Christmas lists come from what you see at Kid to Kid (where everything is 1/2 the price of reg. stores!), rushing in the door after church to color the picture of Christ that they got at church, reading stories of Santa Mouse and falling asleep to other Christmas stories. Jacob informed me, (our little hunter like his dad), that all he wants is a new gun. Madison, with 10 dolls of her own, wants to sell some in order to get one that blinks its eyes! And that is all that is on their lists--thanks to Madi who wrote them out for all of them! She did add that Brooklyn wants a baby and some crackers! I am thankful that they are teachable and are learning so much about the gospel in their young lives. Madison watches the preview for the DVD on Pres. Hinckley and wants to go buy it-She has literally loved him since she was 18 mths old! Christmas this year is going to be great!
The messages shared tonight were clear and simple. Christmas is about our Savior. As mentioned in the Devotional, it is probably a Divine intervention, that the economy is struggling. Most of us are able to set aside the worldly ideals and focus on the simplicity of Christmas. Dave and I have been trying to keep it very simple for our 3 small children, but I feel more inclined to do so now. I really believe that it is far more important to teach them about the Christmas story and how it applies to us now.
I am thankful for children who delight in the small things in life. Making gingerbread pancakes and frosting them with cool whip to make them white like snowmen, decorating the tree and then sleeping under it, thinking Christmas lists come from what you see at Kid to Kid (where everything is 1/2 the price of reg. stores!), rushing in the door after church to color the picture of Christ that they got at church, reading stories of Santa Mouse and falling asleep to other Christmas stories. Jacob informed me, (our little hunter like his dad), that all he wants is a new gun. Madison, with 10 dolls of her own, wants to sell some in order to get one that blinks its eyes! And that is all that is on their lists--thanks to Madi who wrote them out for all of them! She did add that Brooklyn wants a baby and some crackers! I am thankful that they are teachable and are learning so much about the gospel in their young lives. Madison watches the preview for the DVD on Pres. Hinckley and wants to go buy it-She has literally loved him since she was 18 mths old! Christmas this year is going to be great!
Reflections on Christmas...
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? both, whichever fits the person I'm giving to!
2. Real tree or Artificial? I love real, but this year we invested in artificial
3. When do you put up the tree? sometime in December--before Christmas
4. When do you take the tree down? After New Year's
5. Do you like eggnog? Love it! Got the kids hooked on it too--esp. Jacob!
6. Favorite gift received as a child? the chocolate bars from my Uncle in England--Nestle and Hershey's will never quite compare:)
7. Hardest person to buy for? No one, now that I just ask them...it makes it easier!
8. Easiest person to buy for? Dave and my kids! It is soooo much fun!
9. Do you have a nativity scene? 2 of them--my favorite is the Willow tree from Dave(Thanks hun!)
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Definately mail--if I can remember to get to the post office:(
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I can't think of anything......
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? I'm not much of a movie fan--Snowden and Grinch are what we watch a ton with the kids
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? about 3 months before
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes, at our annual Christmas Party
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Ham---and the peppermint ice cream dessert Dave makes! (Dave sure makes Christmas Merry and Bright!)
16. Lights on the tree? Nice and clear, but I'm thinking of mixing it up next year to colored! It will go more with the mismatched ornaments put on by the kids! I think I'll save nice and elegant for when we are empty nesters!
17. Favorite Christmas song? With Wondering Awe, Silent Night, and almost anything that is Christmas related:)
18. Travel at Christmas or stay at home? I love the years we stay home--it's my favorite place to be! We do slumber parties under the tree, read stories, and go to a ton of community activities--we love to celebrate!
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Of course! I grew up with my Dad having us memorize "T'was the Night Before Christmas" and performing it at American Legion Dinners for all the old men! Now Dasher, Now Dancer, Now Prancer and Vixen, on Comet, on Cupid on Donder and Blitzen!
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Christmas bear--wierd, but cute--I'm looking
(and wish)for a gold, wired angel though!
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? One on Christmas Eve and the rest on Christmas morning
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? People that disregard all respect of others to get the "one" present they need! All we need to do-- take some time to reflect on the sacred birth and life of our Savior.
23. What theme or color are you using? red, gold and green or whatever is in the house!
24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? any, as long as we're surrounded by family and friends
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Dave?!?!?!?! Do I need say more?
26. Who is most likely to respond to this? I hope everyone will take time--it's fun!
27. Who is least likely to respond to this? ? Anyone who thinks I wouldn't like to read thier responses--So guess what? ya better all be responding! I think this is way cute!
2. Real tree or Artificial? I love real, but this year we invested in artificial
3. When do you put up the tree? sometime in December--before Christmas
4. When do you take the tree down? After New Year's
5. Do you like eggnog? Love it! Got the kids hooked on it too--esp. Jacob!
6. Favorite gift received as a child? the chocolate bars from my Uncle in England--Nestle and Hershey's will never quite compare:)
7. Hardest person to buy for? No one, now that I just ask them...it makes it easier!
8. Easiest person to buy for? Dave and my kids! It is soooo much fun!
9. Do you have a nativity scene? 2 of them--my favorite is the Willow tree from Dave(Thanks hun!)
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Definately mail--if I can remember to get to the post office:(
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I can't think of anything......
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? I'm not much of a movie fan--Snowden and Grinch are what we watch a ton with the kids
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? about 3 months before
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes, at our annual Christmas Party
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Ham---and the peppermint ice cream dessert Dave makes! (Dave sure makes Christmas Merry and Bright!)
16. Lights on the tree? Nice and clear, but I'm thinking of mixing it up next year to colored! It will go more with the mismatched ornaments put on by the kids! I think I'll save nice and elegant for when we are empty nesters!
17. Favorite Christmas song? With Wondering Awe, Silent Night, and almost anything that is Christmas related:)
18. Travel at Christmas or stay at home? I love the years we stay home--it's my favorite place to be! We do slumber parties under the tree, read stories, and go to a ton of community activities--we love to celebrate!
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Of course! I grew up with my Dad having us memorize "T'was the Night Before Christmas" and performing it at American Legion Dinners for all the old men! Now Dasher, Now Dancer, Now Prancer and Vixen, on Comet, on Cupid on Donder and Blitzen!
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Christmas bear--wierd, but cute--I'm looking
(and wish)for a gold, wired angel though!
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? One on Christmas Eve and the rest on Christmas morning
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? People that disregard all respect of others to get the "one" present they need! All we need to do-- take some time to reflect on the sacred birth and life of our Savior.
23. What theme or color are you using? red, gold and green or whatever is in the house!
24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? any, as long as we're surrounded by family and friends
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Dave?!?!?!?! Do I need say more?
26. Who is most likely to respond to this? I hope everyone will take time--it's fun!
27. Who is least likely to respond to this? ? Anyone who thinks I wouldn't like to read thier responses--So guess what? ya better all be responding! I think this is way cute!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Daddy's got a gun--Maddie's on the run...
Ahhh!!!! As we were leaving Dave's parents house last Sunday, Madison informed me that she was in "LOVE". Now, in her primary class-a total of 4, 3 boys: Mack, Jack, and Zack, and our little Madison, we should have known there would be trouble-right? Well, her and Jack have quickly taken to being friends and she talks about him all the time. All 3 of the boys are in kindergarten, and she's not, so she only sees them on Sunday for 2 hours. She also just got new teachers in her class, which is a change, because they have had subs for quite a while.
So as our conversation goes on..."mom, there is something I should tell you, but I think you will be mad, so I won't." After proding her and getting her to let me in her little 5 year old world, she pops out the big 4 letter word: KISS! Yes, Jack kissed her--and when I asked how it happened and where, she said it was when they were heading back to the primary room and they were the last 2 out of the room--and it was right smack on the lips! WHOA! SHe asked if she was in trouble, and I said this is something mom and dad would have to discuss and we would talk about it when we got home. Her reply was: Well, Can you hurry and decide and talk because I can't wait that long to find out what will happen! (Is it better to ask for forgiveness or permission?)
And so dad sits, waiting on the porch, gun in hand...contemplating...
**all in all, we had a good laugh and I convinced dad to put his gun away until she's a little older..then he can begin the screening process!
So as our conversation goes on..."mom, there is something I should tell you, but I think you will be mad, so I won't." After proding her and getting her to let me in her little 5 year old world, she pops out the big 4 letter word: KISS! Yes, Jack kissed her--and when I asked how it happened and where, she said it was when they were heading back to the primary room and they were the last 2 out of the room--and it was right smack on the lips! WHOA! SHe asked if she was in trouble, and I said this is something mom and dad would have to discuss and we would talk about it when we got home. Her reply was: Well, Can you hurry and decide and talk because I can't wait that long to find out what will happen! (Is it better to ask for forgiveness or permission?)
And so dad sits, waiting on the porch, gun in hand...contemplating...
**all in all, we had a good laugh and I convinced dad to put his gun away until she's a little older..then he can begin the screening process!
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Emergency Preparedness 101
This morning my sweet sister came up to watch our 3 little ones while we went to a church Emergency Preparedness class.(Thanks Mugs--it meant a lot!) It was incredible! There was a panel of 8-10 professionals that discussed everything from "Deeds and Wills" to making your own ovens and preserving drinking water. Surprisingly, the Bountiful City Water speaker mentioned that several trusted sites, including the Red Cross, all have purifying levels too high to mix into your water reserve. He said that he would never let an infant drink it. To see about correct levels, check with your city water dept. We then broke out for several booths that displayed all ends of emergency preparedness. It was a job well done on behalf of our Relief Society. They really went above and beyond.
As I was listening to all of the info, I thought of Dave's brothers family in Kentucky. They were affected by the hurricanes during September and were out power for 5 days. Although the hurricane didn't directly hit them, they were still affected by this natural disaster--who would have thought???? I was amazed at the preparations they had already made in their daily living. Dave happened to be out visiting during the power outage and was impressed on thier creativity in cooking and how they had enough batteries for middle of the night bathroom runs! Thanks for your great example!
Let's all work towards being prepared-- physically, mentally and spiritually! I have faith and trust that our Heavenly Father will take care of our basic needs in situations like this if we are doing our part. Having the physical items in our homes is essential, but we must also be preparing ourselves spiritually and working hard to follow in the footsteps of Christ.
As I was listening to all of the info, I thought of Dave's brothers family in Kentucky. They were affected by the hurricanes during September and were out power for 5 days. Although the hurricane didn't directly hit them, they were still affected by this natural disaster--who would have thought???? I was amazed at the preparations they had already made in their daily living. Dave happened to be out visiting during the power outage and was impressed on thier creativity in cooking and how they had enough batteries for middle of the night bathroom runs! Thanks for your great example!
Let's all work towards being prepared-- physically, mentally and spiritually! I have faith and trust that our Heavenly Father will take care of our basic needs in situations like this if we are doing our part. Having the physical items in our homes is essential, but we must also be preparing ourselves spiritually and working hard to follow in the footsteps of Christ.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Then-
and NOW--Here is the real party deal!
Brooklyn thinks the outfit grandma gave her is her new blankie
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Fabulous Fall Pictures
For the last 5 years, my sister and I have taken the kids to the cabin for fall pictures. It has really become tradition for us to go. However, it is a little trickier with 5. Here are a few of this years pictures. Enjoy!
Brooklyn will climb anything!
Friday, October 17, 2008
Fall is here! I love it!
Okay, so the title of this blog is actually a book that I read to my students when I taught kindergarten. How I love the fall! I love teaching children about this season and having them be aware of the changes in the world around us. We had our cute little neighbor girl Arden, over yesterday for a play date. After playing on the trampoline, riding the rollercoaster and swinging, we decided to go on a nature walk and collect different items of the season (yellow, red, brown leaves, flower petals that have fallen, pine cones, etc.) Each child had thier own little baggie and found such excitement in what they found. We came home and glued them on fall leaf die cuts and displayed them. The kiddos had an absolute ball. Needless to say, this all happened after dinner and it made a great transition for bed. It is amazing what getting out of the house can do for a child's temperment--a nice, quiet fall walk settled my little ones down for a great night of sleep!
So back to the things I love about fall--the smell in the air, the chilling crisp mornings, the early dark nights, taking family pictures at the cabin, watching the leaves change, sipping hot cocoa before bed, cuddling up in a blanket on the couch, hunting with my husband and kids, chili in bread bowls, pulling out fall clothes and coats, scarecrows, corn, decorating the house, halloween carnivals, trick or treaters and treating!, and last, but not least, pumpkin patches! I love to see all of the sizes, shapes and colors! Madison, Jake and I saw the biggest pumpkins ever in front of a local nursery! I was sad we didn't get out and touch them and feel them and smell them! Okay, I am very hands on! I took Jacob to my cousins house for a play date and they had the funnest pumpkins all over their front walkway! We saw tall ones, skinny ones, fat ones and upside down ones! It was so fun and Jake was so excited to see them! Yes, we love the fall and celebrating it with our little ones.
So back to the things I love about fall--the smell in the air, the chilling crisp mornings, the early dark nights, taking family pictures at the cabin, watching the leaves change, sipping hot cocoa before bed, cuddling up in a blanket on the couch, hunting with my husband and kids, chili in bread bowls, pulling out fall clothes and coats, scarecrows, corn, decorating the house, halloween carnivals, trick or treaters and treating!, and last, but not least, pumpkin patches! I love to see all of the sizes, shapes and colors! Madison, Jake and I saw the biggest pumpkins ever in front of a local nursery! I was sad we didn't get out and touch them and feel them and smell them! Okay, I am very hands on! I took Jacob to my cousins house for a play date and they had the funnest pumpkins all over their front walkway! We saw tall ones, skinny ones, fat ones and upside down ones! It was so fun and Jake was so excited to see them! Yes, we love the fall and celebrating it with our little ones.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
What Joy! What Fun! Brooklyn turned 1!
Okay, it wasn't all that fun. As much as mom did not want her to turn "1", my poor little one, somewhere, picked up the evil strep throat bug. So, we decided to have her party the following week and we are thankful for that. However, the kiddo's and I decided to give her a little surprise on her big day, and we picked up some cupcakes and had a little party for her at home (Dave had to work). We sang to her and then enjoyed our little treat.
I think we enjoyed it more than she did! She was somewhat perky in the beginning, but quickly began to fade. So sorry Brooklyn--next week will be better!
I think we enjoyed it more than she did! She was somewhat perky in the beginning, but quickly began to fade. So sorry Brooklyn--next week will be better!
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