The Gull Getaway

Boxing Day

2012-01-27T17:07:00.004-07:00

My new nightly ritual -- boxing up the house. I know we have several more weeks before the move, but we have been in this house for nearly 14 years. In that amount of time you can really pack it in.

There are so many memories that live within the walls of this home. Mark brought me here to check it out when he was looking for a place to call his own. We were just dating, and I really didn't think I would one day be living here, let alone, marry this guy. He said he knew it all along. He even bought the stove we have now with a "power boost burner" just so I could can. I'm not even sure I knew how to can. But, alas --- here we are, three boys later and lots of stuff. We have made this our home, both inside and out.

It will be a bitter-sweet day when I have to leave. As for now, I'm reliving lots of memories as I box up what I can. Ethan just found his long-lost Lego Lava Monster. I am sure there will be many more great finds as we continue to box up and clear it all out.

My boy Ethan

2012-01-19T09:12:00.003-07:00

This is a totally random post, but I decided I just had to get this on today. I have put it off for several weeks. We found a half destroyed paper ball Ethan had made in class with favorites of his. Rather than throw it away, I kept it, but I knew I wouldn't be saving it forever. I would just have to document his responses. Here they are:
Favorite Movie: Star Wars - like this was a big surprise!!!!
Favorite Book: Harry Potter
Favorite TV show: Tom and Jarry -- Tom and Jerry
Favorite Song: Call to sere -- Called to Serve
Favorite Subject: Sientce -- Science
Born: Salt Lake
Birthday: 81 -- That's literally how he wrote it, and it cracked me up. I joked and asked him if he thought he was 81 years old.
Least Favorite Food: Brocole and peas -- broccoli and peas, he knows when I've cooked broccoli for dinner and comes walking in the house in fear that he'll have to eat it.
Free Time: Draw
Favorite Number: 10
Person to be like: Mark -- how sweet. This one made me smile.
Future Job: Lego deziner -- Lego designer
Favorite Color: Black

He really is a good kid, and I love him so much. It is hard to see your kids struggle in life. I'm sure it will never get any easier being a mom. Love you, Tate Man.

Growing Old

2011-12-20T21:56:00.002-07:00

Today I saw an older couple in the grocery story. By older, I mean in their seventies. They were in the produce section picking out some fruit. What caught my attention was that they were holding hands; not because one of them needed assistance getting around, because they were in love and cared about one another. It showed in their faces.

That's what I want to be like when I grow up - deeply in love with my Mark, still holding his hand.

Kitchen Creations

2011-12-19T09:18:00.003-07:00

What do you get when you mix a gallon of vinegar and a whole lot of lemon pepper? One stinky mess.

Alex found his way into the lazy susan and dumped out the vinegar and mixed it up right nice with lemon pepper. Needless to say, it was a rather interesting smell I found as I came down the stairs.
Note to Self (really just to Mark): We aren't that ready to get rid of all our baby locks on the cupboards.

Halloween Spooks

2011-11-04T11:06:00.005-06:00

These are for our missionaries so far away. I didn't get to them till this morning and now I hear they are off on a African Safari for the weekend. They went 6 more hours north to visit a small group of Saints and take them some things. I can't wait to hear about their adventures and see the pictures they take. I know a few boys who will think their grandparents are the best after this safari.

This boy loved all things Halloween. He wasn't a bit scared by creepy masks or skeletons in the stores; he thought they were great. He isn't one of those scarey skeletons - I think he's one of the cutest skeletons around.

Aaron wanted to be a zombie. I wasn't really onboard with this idea, but it sounded easier than last year's Lego guy costume I had to make, so I went with it. Gone are the days of cute costumes for Aaron. He got dressed up on three different occasions, and yes, I had to put makeup on him all three times. Unfortuately for him, I think it got progressively worse and on Halloween night, it was a train wreck. I know zombies are dead guys, but really he was looking pretty sad. Glad he just went with it.

I talked Ethan into being Indiana Jones. He loved the whip he got at Cub Scout camp and after a few finds at the local thrift shop, he was good to go.

At our ward's first ever Trunk-or-Treat. Alex wasn't having a good time, but the other boys loved it. After Alex got into it, he was thinking it was a fun time to get candy. I can't remember the last time it was so nice on Halloween. No need to cover up those costumes with coats and gloves. Even Ethan was warm walking around in short sleeves. It was a fun night.

It was a bit of a rush to get out the door and over to the church, no Halloween porch picture for us this year. Sad. That's right up there with a Christmas morning picture on the stairs.

Wax Museum
Last night Ethan's school particiapated in what they call the wax museum. All the 5th graders choose a famous American to dress up as. The research the individual and make posters for the event. It was a big deal that the teachers have been talking about since the first day of school. Ethan got to be Babe Ruth. Thanks to a kind neighbor, he had a Yankee hat and a real wooden bat. I couldn't come up with a jersey, so I did the next best thing. I made one.

I had no idea how easy it would be to cut fabric using a cricut, but it worked liked a charm and with some heat and bond, Ethan had him a jersey. I even made him iron it on himself.

Not sure why he thought he needed to put his hand in his back pocket, but these kids did a terrific job holding still for so long. I really didn't think Ethan had it in him. He cracked me up in the video I took when they sang their song. He's holding really still and knows I'm taping him and he wants to look good. Then he finds Mark and Alex walking around and he breaks character and tries to get Alex to recognize him.

Dear Skype,

2011-10-16T14:02:00.005-06:00

I knew it was fun to speak to my sister in the next time zone; it's even better to talk to someone halfway around the world! I love you, Skype!!!
Love, mg

Just got off of skype and had a chance to talk really quickly with my parents. They are serving in Francistown, Botswana, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Sounds like they won't be sleeping for the next 18 months. There is lots of work there to do. They have one branch and two units. They said it is HOT and they have a little car. Random little facts, I know, but when you only get a few minutes, the conversation and questions are rather scattered.

Happy Birthday to my dear dad! It's his birthday today. Mom said they even had a little party for him there. Here's to a big adventure for you and Mom!

Departures

2011-10-10T21:36:00.007-06:00

Today was the day. I finally had to say goodbye for the last time for real. I met the missionaries and their adorable chauffeur (Tony) at the airport this morning bright and early. Three of dad's sister were there too, Muzette, Sherry, and Marvalee. (Aaron told me tonight that Sherry is Muzette's side kick - where does he come up with these things?)

It is strange how much the airlines have changed since I went on a mission. After they checked in we really didn't have anywhere to go to say goodbye or even wait with them. Sister Grandma (my newly coined name for her - Elder Grandpa for dad) took Alex on a walk on the moving sidewalks. He really thought they were the bomb - those and the escalators.

We took a few pictures and really had to say goodbye quite quickly. The lines to the security were getting longer and I think they were a bit anxious to get through them on time.

I was proud of myself - I didn't cry too much at all. I think Mark was a bit worried about me after all my crying late last night, but I was a big girl. I just feel a little like an orphan now.

Dad said that while he was at the MTC he realized he had a pretty good companion and that he was glad Mom was going to be with him this time around. Mom joked the first time they had to teach there Dad did all the talking. They were pretty excited, and it seemed a little strange to see my mom wearing her Sister Woolf tag. I am so excited for them!

I really don't have a super great camera, so I am sorry to my siblings that these aren't the best pics - they'll just have to do. Mom was cute and got the grandkids a little something to remember them by. It has already been carried all around the house tonight. I am hoping he makes it the whole 18 months. Alex seems to really like the little guy.

Love me some Tony.

And so does Alex.

A special thanks to the guy who "isn't a part of the LDS community" who took our group picture. He's almost as great of a photographer as I am. I had include it even though it's a blur.

Mom wanted to do a "Call to Serve" wave. I ran over to try and get the pic while she was trying to explain to dad what he was suppose to do. I am not sure he really got it. Didn't he ever watch that video? Remember when mom got that video for Christmas, just after Brandon went on his mission. It must have been Tony that had her name. What I can remember is him being so excited about giving it to her, and when he did, he had to tell her how much it cost and that dad helped him buy it. Maybe that was one of my crazy dreams? But I'm pretty sure we all had a good laugh about that Christmas.

Conversations in the kitchen

2011-10-05T23:28:00.003-06:00

I have no idea what he was doing, but after dessert tonight Aaron grabbed the garbage can and hugging it said, "Hey sexy, lady." He then pretended to kiss it.

Me: "Ah, Aaron, what does that word mean? Sexy?"
Aaron: "You know, Mom!"
Me: "But I want to know what you think it means."
Aaron: "Tell her, Ethan!"
Ethan: After a short pause. "It means you're really beautiful. Like you, Mom."
Me: (Trying not to laugh and wondering why their dad always misses conversations like these) "But you wouldn't tell me I was really sexy would you?
Aaron: "No, you're just really pretty, Mom."

At least that one is settled!

Missionaries

2011-10-05T23:05:00.003-06:00

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly...

Last night as I was trying to get the kids in bed the phone rang. As I picked up my phone, to my surprise it was my mom calling. Wait? Isn't she suppose to be at the MTC? I hurried and picked up.
"Mom? What are you doing? Is it okay that you are calling?" I joked.

Fortunately as senior couples you have several perks that younger missionaries don't. I knew my parents didn't want to be getting a call from me when I was at the MTC. That would only mean trouble. She sounded so happy and said that she and dad were having a great time. The MTC normally gets 30-40 senior couples. That particular week they had 102 couples. Needless to say, there wasn't enough room for everyone there. Can you guess where she was calling me from? The Marriott!

"So, do you get to eat your breakfast there too?" I joked some more.

She didn't talk long. She had homework to do. They were getting ready to present the first discussion. I loved how excited she was and how happy she sounded. It certainly made it fun to talk to her and not feel sad at all.

Now on to my other missionary story. I only tell this portion because it really just makes me laugh.

As a missionary we hated when people would dog us and our teaching appointments. I remember the one time it was almost okay. This sweet lady wrote us an apology for not being able to keep the appointment and left us a bag of cookies because she felt so badly about it. Well tonight I was dogged once again. This time it was by the missionaries themselves.

I just keep hoping that these two are okay and that nothing bad happened to them. I signed up at church to feed the missionaries. Mark made arrangements to come home early so we could accommodate their schedule. The appointed time came and no missionaries. We waited. And then we waited some more. The boys really were excited about having the missionaries over to our home so I felt badly that it didn't work out. Finally, after 45 minutes we sat down to the table. I kept waiting for the doorbell to ring, but it never did.

As you can imagine, we had plenty of food for dinner. I may not have to cook tomorrow! It really wasn't a fancy dinner or anything. I was just a little frustrated that they never called to cancel or tell me what was going on. I even stressed out that the cake I made didn't look so great and made frosting to jazz it up a bit. I confessed to Mark that the only reason I made the frosting was because of the missionaries. He didn't seem to mind that they elders never showed up. He was just happy to have chocolate frosting on his zucchini cake.

Next time I talk to my mom, I'll remind her not to flake out on their dinner appointments.

The final countdown

2011-09-30T09:27:00.005-06:00

Today is Friday. (Don't worry, I'm not going to break out in song or anything, nor do I want you to break out in song!)
Tomorrow is Saturday, then Sunday, and finally it's Monday, October 3, 2011.
I knew this day would be coming, but now it's here, right around the corner. I'm trying not to tear up as I type this.

We are sending our two great parents out into the world to be missionaries. I still think South Africa is too far away!

I know they are so excited to go, so I will be too! I just want to be a little selfish and keep them close by. I've decided this is all in preparation for when I send out my three little guys. That day will come all too quickly, and Ethan has already informed us that he is going to China! Now that sounds really far!

A new home

2011-09-27T10:35:00.002-06:00

I decided to dedicate a blog just for the house updates. The title is courtesy of Alex. One day while driving out there to check on power issues he said, "Erda House, Mommy?"

"Yes, we are going to the Erda House, Alex."

And thus it was named, Erda House.

It will sure be fun to look back at all these pics and see the house come together. This weekend we hope to be putting in some labor of our own. We made some adjustments to the plans and included a crawl space. We will only be pouring concrete on a certain portion of the crawl space and rather than leave the rest dirt, we will be putting down gravel. Sounds like a lot of fun, huh! My shoulders are already feeling the pain.

Say it aint so...

2011-09-14T21:53:00.004-06:00

Tuesday morning I received a text from my SIL Cynthia. She most excitedly informed me of the news....

They were digging!!!!!

Yes, we now have a big ol' hole in our property. Made to fit one house we've been waiting a long time for. When my MIL asked if they were digging in the correct spot, I thought to myself, "Well, I'll take it where ever it is!"

This is from the south of the house.

This is from the north of the house.

And these are the two cute guys that accompanied me to the site!

I'm convinced that Rachael's positive thinking and most delicious cookies did the trick! Did I mentioned that I was a little excited?

Self portrait of one happy lady! Double chins and all! I seriously almost jumped in the hole and started hugging the poor guy!

Honey Bucket

2011-09-08T09:48:00.003-06:00

Shout out to my SIL Nancy who sent me this hilarious text this morning.

"Your Honey Bucket has arrived...Let the construction begin!"

Nancy lives at the top of the road and keeps me updated on the particulars of what is happening out there. When I read her text to the boys Aaron thought a honey bucket was a big yellow truck used for digging. Then I reminded them about how there needs be a toilet for all the construction workers. They put two and two together, and their faces lit right up! They totally got it! They know from personal experience that you can find a port-a-potty next to "wooden houses."

As terrible as it sounds - a stinky portable restroom made me smile!

Really?!

2011-09-07T22:39:00.004-06:00

I almost don't dare type this, afraid that someone will jump out and say, "Just kidding! You really don't get to build a house!"

September 1 was a beautiful day! I was walking around Temple Square with Alex while Mark attended the sealing of our nephew. I walked into the gated area next to the temple when my phone rang. I hurried to answer it - a little embarrassed to take a call right there. On the other end of the line came the news I had been waiting for. The building permit had been approved and now our construction load was ready for signatures!! Could this really be happening?! I am still waiting to see that hole in the ground, but I know its coming any day now.

My contractor contacted me today asking me to come in and make color choices for the house. Really!? You mean after all these years of dreaming about our home, I really get to pick the brick color? Seriously, how are you suppose to pick a brick color for your home off of the website sample pics? It's not like I'm painting my bathroom here and can easily change the terrible paint choice with something better. (I'm still lacking a little confidence after having thought I had the perfect yellow paint for my office. Needless to say, it tanked!! We've learned to live with it, but I know before long, we'll be covering up that big mistake with something else.) I'm going to the brick showroom tomorrow and hope they have something better than the website swatches!!

I know the boys want this to be over as much as I do. I don't know how many times I've heard them say, "Are we going to look at houses, AGAIN!!!!" We took them out again on Sunday. When they asked if we were looking at houses, we lied and said we were going to look at landscaping. It seemed to work until we stopped and got out to take a closer look at a paticular home. Then they were on to us.

I think I'm about to be overwhelmed!! But bring it on, right?!

Gilgal Sculpture Garden

2011-07-26T19:59:00.008-06:00

Today we ventured off to find the Gilgal Sculpture Garden. I hadn't ever heard of this place until today when I found this site that features fun things to do. Not sure how we chose this place, but it looked interesting enough and something different for the boys than the usual park or playground. Best thing about the garden - it was free.

Nestled near Trolley Square, we enjoyed the garden to ourselves, literally. Well that was until the dreadlock guy and his belly dancer girlfriend found us.
I downloaded a scavenger hunt list for the boys which kept us entertained for quite a while. We actually had to leave because it started raining, and I took the umbrellas out of the car the last time I cleaned it.

The garden was created by Thomas Battersby Child, Jr.(1888-1963) in his back yard. Mr. Child was a masonry contractor and Bishop of the historic 10th Salt Lake LDS Ward. I would love to go again after having taken the time to learn more about the sculptures in the interactive online tour.

A few of the items we marked off the scavenger hunt list included the following:

The word Gilgal in stone

Never heard of the word Gilgal before?
"The name Gilgal refers to a Biblical location meaning "circle of standing stones" where Joshua ordered the Israelites to place twelve stones as a memorial. Gilgal is also the name of a city and a valley in The Book Of Mormon."

The words Count Your Many Blessings

I happened upon this gem and snapped a photo. There are several quotes, scriptures, and hymns carved in stone covering the garden. Lots to think about and ponder.

It wasn't until later when Ethan read the list of items to look for that I realized it was on our list. I just find myself needing to be reminded lately that I have much to be grateful for. This was a timely reminder for me and something I know I wasn't a coincident.

A spinx - Joseph Smith style?

Brick Pants and the 10th ward church building
Self portrait of Child with the church building where he served as bishop.

A Stack of Books
The boys thought it would be funny to pretend they were holding these books.

If only they realized how soon homework will be upon them. Heaven help me -- I know Ethan will feel like his homework is as much of a burden as actually having to lift these stone books.

This was just something I found that intrigued me and I wanted to take it home with me and reflect upon it some more.

As we drove downtown, I saw an advertisement for gourmet doughnuts. I'm sure I blew my points out of the water with this treat. Good thing we all shared.

Grasshopper and Cookies-n-Cream Doughnuts

We went to the playground and tried to work off the doughnuts. I'm sitting here hours later and still feel them. Might have to go let Jillian whip me back into shape.

Guess what made my day?

2011-07-22T13:38:00.009-06:00

The road is getting laid with asphalt! After thinking it was going to finally happen on Tuesday, I was told it would happen on Thursday. Yesterday I was all prepared with my building permit papers in hand and drove out to see the beautiful road and turn in the paper work. We drove out to an empty subdivision and no work done on the road. Tomorrow I told. I was getting tired of hearing about things getting pushed backed, again. I stopped on the side of the road and cried. And to be truthful, we stopped at McDonalds on the way home, and I bought the boys ice cream.

Fast forward to today. I had a text message from my S&MIL telling me they were working on the road. The best was the message from my FIL telling me they had finished our drive way.

I had to drive out AGAIN to see the progress. When we got there the paver wasn't working and a handful of workers were sitting under a tree in the shade. The dump trucks had left to refill with asphalt. By the time we walked down to check out our driveway and visited Grandma for a bit, the trucks were back with new loads - and they just kept coming -- truck after truck. Each one went by and I had to think, how much money is each one of these worth? We went back up and watched the trucks unload their trailers into the hopper and lay that black asphalt down. It was beautiful!!

Of course Monday has to be a holiday. I'll have to wait until Tuesday to submit the building permit papers. I'm hoping to have a hole dug, maybe even some framing complete, before my parents leave for their mission to South Africa. A girl can dream!

A before pic:

Well, here's my new AFTER:

07/11

2011-07-11T22:48:00.006-06:00

How about celebrated 7/11 with a hike up to the boys favorite spot - Donut Fall - and then topping it off with a Slurpee, (also know as a "Special Drink") free just today as it was 7/11.

I forgot Alex's backpack, so I made the kid walk about 1/2 of the way himself. It was great PT for him up until he fell and came down pretty hard and hit his nose. Needless to say, I looked like one rugged hiker with blood stains across my shirt.

The funny part of today's hike was Alex and the hydration packs. He couldn't get enough of that water. First he started with Ethan's water. When Ethan wanted a drink, he had to pry Alex off. Before we knew it, he was drinking off of Aaron's. I finally had to wear Aaron's pack myself and put Alex up on my shoulder's so he could drink and we could keep walking.

Due to all the snow and the wet spring, we weren't able to get very close to the falls this time. The boys were a bit disappointed and were trying to find someway to cross the river. It was quite pretty with all the extra white water falling down the mountain side.

Tonight we went out to Grandpa Gull's potato weeding party and dug in the dirt till the sun went down. I had to take some pics of the new culvert for Mark. He hasn't seen it yet as he's been one busy man at work lately. No finished road yet...it has taken a long time. We are told that the asphalt will be done by July 21. Crossing my fingers.

My layout is all messed up, but it's late, and I really don't want to take the time to figure out the HTML right now....

Moving Forward

2011-06-21T09:51:00.003-06:00

After months and months of rain and failed inspections, I am so excited that our road past inspection this morning. I know it's only the rough grade, but I feel like we have reach a big milestone here. Next step: final grade and asphalt. The county won't let me even submit my building permit until after the road has been COMPLETELY finished and approved.
I was seriously considering building a boat rather than a home. But it looks like the tides are changing and we may actually get to build a home.

I am on my home to my parents to visit them and my little sister and her two kids. Yeah!! Let's hope something comes in the mail while we're there. The other big change in my life: my parents are waiting for their mission call.

My Little Star

2011-03-29T13:10:00.003-06:00

Today was a big day for the students at our local elementary, one I hope my boys remember for years to come. The governor came to their school to sign an education funding bill. I told Mark last night, that I know we live in the capital city, but to have the governor come to their school is pretty cool. (Parents were given a notice to NOT come to the school for the assembly.) The boys were excited and had to wear their yellow school shirts and practiced their song this morning over breakfast. We talked about the chance of the boys maybe being on tv. Of course I made sure their hair was combed and their faces were washed when they went out the door today.

Low and behold, my little Aaron made the cut. His little face is on a local station's coverage of the story, and I am one excited momma! I know this kid is gong to eat it up too; he loves the spotlight! So you can watch this clip and look for Aaron (He is sitting there watching and listening. I have to admit, I first recognized his friend next to him before I even saw Aaron. Am I a bad mom or what!?

Now Aaron's teacher tells me he is in the local paper too. He said he was interviewed, but they just asked his info to caption the photo. He yelled, "I'm a super star, Mom!" when I picked him up from school.

Phone Calls

2011-03-28T14:43:00.002-06:00

This morning between phone calls with several people concerning the home loans and septic tanks, I got a call from the elementary school. That for me is always a little alarming - wondering what is wrong with one of the boys. On the other end of the line I heard Ethan's voice. He said, "Mom, I think I know what disease I have. It's called sceema, and I think I better come home."

This poor kid has the worst skin ever. I try to use lotion to take care of it, but it's not really working. He's been wearing long sleeves all winter, and I really havne't looked at his arms that closely until just recently. They are in bad shape. I told him his "disease" isn't really a disease and that no one in his class would "catch" this if he stayed at school today. I think when he gets home I may have to find out if there is more to this story than bad skin. On another note, his teacher told me the govenor is coming to his school tomorrow. I better take care of him tonight so his disease is all better by tomorrow.

Home Teaching

2011-03-22T16:58:00.002-06:00

I came across this and just had to share. Thanks, Danna!

I better get out there and do my Visiting Teaching. Thanks for the pointers, Tom!

What's in the soup?

2011-02-28T22:28:00.006-07:00

I know I have other topics I need to write about, but I have to put this down before I forget it. You know, one of those funny things the kids say that you swear you'll always remember and don't.

A few weeks ago we sat down to eat some of the yummiest clam chowder this side of the Mississippi. It's from Market Street - I could eat a bowl right now. I told the boys they had to give it a try. They both agreed it was pretty tasty, but Ethan wanted to know what made it so spicy.
I started listing some of the ingredients, "Well there's quite a bit of pepper, there's leeks, (I didn't mention the onions or green peppers, I knew that would make them stop eating it right then and there) and I also put in a little Tabasco."

Ethan stared right at me with a look of dismay, "You put TOBACCO in our soup!"

Love Still Making You Do Strange Things

2011-01-24T17:26:00.005-07:00

What do you get when you add these two things together: a husband in charge of Sacrament Meeting and no youth speaker?

Answer: One family roped into singing in Sacrament meeting.

Mark owes me big time. I think he mentioned something to me on Thursday night about our family singing in church on Sunday. It wasn't until Saturday that I asked him if this was for real. Sure enough he thought we could do it. Thankfully we have a wonderful neighbor who would play the piano for us. Thank you Rachael! I could only imagine how terrible it would have been without her backup.

Needless to say, I got up there, the music started, and I looked at my boys all suited up and lost it. I wasn't much help for the rest of the song. How embarrassing! This wasn't the first time this has ever happened to me either. I remember having to sing a song with my mom in some Relief Society meeting when I was younger(I honestly don't know how old I was). I had to sing by myself and the words were about my mother. I couldn't finish the stinkin' song I was crying too much. That made my mom start crying, and she couldn't sing her part. I think we just sat there and cried the whole way through. Too bad I didn't remembered this experience before I told Mark we would pinch hit for him.

Love makes you do some strange things...

2011-01-18T22:40:00.002-07:00

This morning I caught my son red-handed. He tried to lock himself in the bathroom to hide the evidence. He was no match for me - I will soon sign a contract for CSI-Taylorsville, I'm that good.

He had taken the finger nail clippers to my most recently purchased necklace to extract three of his favorite stones. I remained calm and took the kid to school, hoping his teacher wasn't wearing a necklace.

Tonight he did it again. This time it made me a bit more mad. He had taken a sentimental ring and somehow crushed the band. It's destroyed. This time he said he wanted the diamonds. I cried and told him what he did was really mean. He finally confided in me that all he wanted was to give the cute girl in his class something special. Really!

Tonight when I go to bed I won't be taking off my wedding ring.

Welcoming A New Year!

2011-01-02T14:27:00.003-07:00

We welcomed in the new year here at home with our boys. It was just what I wanted and needed. We made Chinese, played lots of games and toasted to a happy new year - I tried to trick the boys that it was actually midnight when it was really only 9 p.m. But hey, it was hitting midnight somewhere, right!!!

And I know it was a successful party after having the fire alarm go off a total of FIVE times that night. One HOT! HOT! oven plus sparklers inside can only equal trouble. Our poor neighbor; I'm sure she was wondering what we were up to!

Happy New Year! Here's to 2011! My first resolution for the new year -- move into our home on 329 Heritage Lane!

Big Brother

2010-12-15T11:06:00.004-07:00

After my post yesterday about my remote, I had to do some researching and find out what was going on. I had to delete the name of the cable company I referenced in my earlier post to protect myself from crazy customer service guys responding to my blog.

I spoke with the company this morning and verified that they actually have people out of PA searching blogs for their company name. Apparently they like to find where people are complaining about their company and see what the problem is. It didn't give me any warm fuzzies to know they were out there trying to help - quite the opposite! It freaked me out!!! It also may have been enough to push me into the world of private blogging.

2010-12-14T10:56:00.005-07:00

The remote to our t.v. has been missing for several days. A few months ago it went missing too. Mark later found it hiding in a box at the side/under of the bed. We attributed the hiding place to none other than our little Alex.

Looks innocent enough, right?!

Now not having a remote shouldn't be a problem, right. Just get up and change the channel yourself. Not so! Our remote is from the cable company and must be used to work with the little box they sent us.

Also near the time the remote went missing, a toilet got clogged. It was serious too. The plunger wouldn't work. Mark brought in the big guns, his auger, or something. I really don't know what it's called. That didn't' work either. The rule was - no doing your business in the boys bathroom.

Needless to say, someone forgot the rule last night. Poor Aaron...he had to do something I know he didn't want to do. But I made him. Mark brought the plunger back in to see what he could do. The toilet had been out of commission for nearly a week and a half. He said he started working and then saw something black. You guessed it! There was our lost remote!!

I still laugh thinking about it! I haven't spoken to TV World yet to see what they'll say. I thought about using this approach - "Here's my remote - it doesn't work. May I get a new one?"

The new house rule - Always shut the bathroom door!!

Twitterpated

2010-11-23T15:05:00.005-07:00

What do you say to your nine-year-old son who comes home with a huge smile on his face and says, "I'm SO happy!"?
His little brother then blurts out, "Yeah, his girlfriend touched his back."

Once we got home and I could speak to him alone, I asked him more about the situation. He's been so secretive about his girlfriend and hasn't dared tell us her name. The only details he's given us are that they held hands during singing time. One day this week he teased me and said that MAYBE or MAYBE NOT he's kissed her out in the field during recess. Good thing I volunteer in his classroom. I've figured out who this little lady is.

I told him to show me what she did when she touched his back. When he came over and rubbed his hand up and down my back and said, "It was so great, Mom!", I got a little worried. I thought it was Aaron that I was going to have to watch out for, but Ethan seems to be having his share of twitterpation.

I have the same problem. You see, I am married to a great man. Mark treats me like a princess. To brighten up a rather cold, windy day, and to tell me how thankful he was for me, Mark sent me a beautiful flower arrangement. Did I already tell you? I'm twitterpated too!

Making some progress...slowly but surely.

2010-11-13T16:04:00.006-07:00

These pics are for my records and for my family that lives too far away.

Our road is currently under construction. We missed getting the asphalt down this Fall and will have to wait until Spring to get that done. In the mean time, the county will not grant us a builing permit until the complete infastructure of the road is in. And so, we wait some more...

Before, okay not really before, but the first grubbing they did.

During:

I wish I had an After photo!
Here's the view from my kitchen sink.

Love those beautiful mountains. I will miss my current view from the kitchen window. I have to admit, I get too much entertainment watching what happens out that window.

Watch out Conan

2010-11-08T22:56:00.003-07:00

This photo is several months old, but in honor of Conan being back on the air, I had to post it. Watch out Conan. My son's hair wave may just have you beat.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T15:12:00.005-06:00

It was a dark and stormy night....

Yes, it's true, it was a dark and stormy night. We were out in the rain. And although these aren't the best pictures, here are my cuties.

Alex loves Aaron's old stick horse and so he was a cowboy. Due to the rain, Mr. Horse didn't come outside with us. Ethan changed his mind as we were eating dinner and said he was just going to be a cowboy too. Love that last minute change. He went to school as a vampire.
Aaron handed me one of his Lego guys and told me he wanted to be a Lego man for Halloween. Unfortunately he had a woredrobe malfunction and his Lego legs didn't make it far in the rain. He was pretty cute though.

Alex wanted to stop after the first house and eat what he had just been given. "Treat!" This little boy was in heaven.

The Meanest Mom II

2010-11-01T14:56:00.004-06:00

After reading this last night, I had to laugh! You see, yesterday, my son went to church with his tennis shoes on. Why? He has the same problem as her son. Maybe they should get together. Between the two of them, they might have the proper shoes for any event.
Anyway, I love this lady. She is always good for a laugh. I am a little creeped out that her cat is often found not only in her kitchen, but on her countertops. Nonetheless, she's won me over with her anecdotes.

You could win...

2010-10-10T22:54:00.002-06:00

but I'd rather you not -- cuz that would mean I didn't win.
Check out this site for a chance to win an LDS temple picture.

Funny I found this tonight, because just today at church we had sign ups for Super Saturday which included a gorgeous temple picture project. If I could save some money and win a picture, that would be fantabulous!!

Sew What!

2010-10-04T22:00:00.003-06:00

As if sewing patches on for one scout wasn't enough! Mark went to the Scout Shop and made a big purchase. Seriously, scouts shirts cost way too much, not to mention the many patches they adorn them with, and Mark couldn't just buy any scout shirt, I'm sure the one he bought was the most expensive. That's just how this guy roles. He tells me he needs one. I'm thinking I haven't seen any other bishopric member at Pack Meeting in their scout shirt.I'm pretty sure he would have turned his nose up on any scout shirt I brought home. Because you know I would have searched high and low and found me one at the DI for a bargain.

Now I just have to perfect sewing on these patches. I know half of them are suppose to iron on, but Mark's shirt is nylon, and I don't dare put the heat too high on the iron. With my luck, I'd burn a hole in his freaking scout shirt!

Oh how I love my Scouts!

Pop Quiz

2010-09-17T09:26:00.003-06:00

You know your kid likes playing soccer when:
a. After his 1 1/2 hour practice he comes home only to play more soccer.
b. He asks every morning what day it is, hoping that it's finally Saturday, the day of his first soccer game.
c. He stuffs his soccer uniform, cleats, socks and guards in his backpack so he can change when it's recess.
d. All of the above.

Aaron got signed up for Fall soccer with Taylorsville Rec Center, and this kid is all over the game of soccer. It killed me when I emptied out his backpack to find all his soccer gear. He said he changed for two recesses. I still can't figure out how he did it all. He came home wearing the same clothes I sent him to school in. His coach said at the first practice that he was going to treat this team like a competition team and not just a rec team. So, between Coach Joe and Crazy Kid Aaron, I think we are going to have soccer running through our veins. Just don't consider me an official soccer mom yet.

Confessions

2010-09-12T18:49:00.003-06:00

One Magic Eraser = $2.49
A clean kitchen wall = Priceless

So besides drawing on walls, Alex has also taken to emptying off the contents of shelves - any he can reach. Be it books, Tuperware, or videos, he'll clean it off in no time. This is no big deal, just a fun thing to constantly keep up with.

The other day I was putting away some videos Alex had found. Yes, we actually still have a few VHS videos. They are inside the tv cabinet. Among them are some classic church missionary videos, old family video footage, and some Denise Austin workout tapes.

While I was putting them away, Aaron said, "See Mom, these are the bad movies. I think Ethan was looking at that girl. She doesn't have any clothes on."

All I could think of was Aaron telling the whole Primary, "Ya, my mom has some bad movies she hides under the tv. The ladies don't wear clothes."

I quickly explained, "You're right, she isn't very modest. See this is her swimming suit. She must have torn it when she jumped in." I strategically placed my thumb over her bare stomach.

So thanks a million, Denise! I still don't have a super stomach (but that's not really your fault) and my son my soon have my neighbors looking at me funny!

Moral of my story: Get rid of any exercise tapes you have right now. I'm just saying.

Petey C and crayons

2010-09-09T21:41:00.003-06:00

I know, not much in the way of posting. I will get back on the wagon, I promise. Just wanted to share where Mark is taking me tomorrow night. I'm a little excited for a night out with my guy, under the stars in the cool autumn air. We'll be taking a trip down memory lane (to celebrate our 12 years of marital bliss) and seeing Peter Cetera in concert.

While we dated, heck, even after we were married, Mark and I had to drive to see each other. We didn't live with each other the first nine months of our marriage. So, while driving, we often passed the time listen to this guy. He brings back so many memories.

Back to reality: Alex is into everything. I am actually online trying to look for ways to remove crayon off my walls. This little guy!! I don't ever remember the other two boys drawing on the walls with crayons. Oh, Alex! I go from one mess to another; he's keeping me busy. Guess he knew he'd have me to himself, now that the two big boys are off to school all day. Really, I can think of other things I'd rather do with my time than follow this tornado around!

The not so secret Cecret Lake

2010-07-18T08:54:00.004-06:00

Our goal to hike more often this summer hasn't panned out as successfully as we'd like, but this past Saturday we did get up in the mountains and enjoy some magnificent views!

I really just need to purchase the book, Best Day Hikes in Salt Lake so I can quit putting it on hold and waiting for my turn at the library. I knew this hike was listed among the many in this book and wanted to try it out with the boys. Alex is still too little, so he gets to be packed around by some lucky party, namely his dad most times. The two other boys are really enjoying our hikes, now that they have their own hydration packs. Thanks, Costco!!

Cecret Lake is located in the Albion Basin up Little Cottonwood Canyon just beyond Alta. We were lucky to get a parking space at the campground and didn't have to take the shuttle. There were tons of people there hiking as well as many others there for the Wildflower Festival.

The hike was about 3/4 to 1 mile each way, depending on what map you use; just right for little people. It was a rather steep hike at the end, and I was feeling sorry for Mark having to pack Alex on his back.

The boys loved seeing snow, climbing rocks, and I loved the beautiful flowers. The lake really was pretty.

When Mark asked Aaron what he would have changed about the hike, he simply said he wanted to go longer. Crazy kid! He carried home a HUGE rock in his backpack. It was super heavy too! After we got home, I caught him putting his small boulder in the microwave and setting the timer for 100 minutes. When I asked him what he was cooking for so long he told me he wanted to see his rock melt. Okay, where does he come up with these ideas? Really!? I'm not sure our microwave could take melting a rock. It dies after popping microwave popcorn. Mark hates the poor thing!

Alex did some rock climbing of his own while he and I waited for the big boys to explore the lake and venture off the beaten path.

All in all, Cecret Lake was a great hike for us! Mark it off our list, Mark thinks we're going to do all the hikes in the book! We'll have to see about that!

I hope she'll come home with me...

2010-07-18T08:42:00.003-06:00

The new van is still at the lot. She couldn't come home with me on Friday. I get to pick her up tomorrow and take her to our mechanic to have her checked out. If it all pans out...I'm bringing her home for good. I hate to even say anything just in case something does go wrong. I don't want to even think about that.

2005 Sienna - I'm not sure if she'll get the title of van car or not?!

Mark leaves for Wisconsin on Monday morning, so needless to say, I get to buy her all by myself. What a big, grown-up girl I've become!

Where are you?

2010-07-16T15:48:00.003-06:00

The summer is nearly half over, and where have I been? Not at home. I will most definitely have to post the events of our summer thus far. For the last week that I have been at home, all my extra time has been spent on the computer, but not blogging. I've been searching for a new car.

Yes, it's true! The van-car is no more. After a very dumb accident, one that I'd rather not talk about, she has gone home to Honda heaven.

This is what she looked like.....

Everyone is fine, except for my arm which is still giving me trouble. If it weren't my left arm I may seriously take the doctor's suggestion of having it amputated. Thanks, airbag! The thought of replacing the van-car has been a bit overwhelming and one I'd rather not repeat anytime soon.

All that said, I just spoke to Mark and he said, "I need you to pick me up at 5:00 p.m. Bring your checkbook."

Yeah! The search must be over! But I'm starting to get worried that we're saying goodbye to the balance of our savings account! Bye, bye money for a new road! Bye, bye money for a new house!!

And in my own girly-girly way all I am wondering about is -- is it going to be the red one or the gray one?
Pictures coming soon of the new addition to the Gull Family!!

Summer Vacation

2010-06-08T08:21:00.005-06:00

Yesterday I checked my phone messages and heard Mark's voice on the other line. His message to me: "Two questions, first, how did swim lessons go? And second, are you ready to send the boys back to school?"

Yesterday marked the beginning of summer vacation for us. And of course, another busy week at work for Mark. He has a big project that needs to be completed by next Wendesday and they just doubled the scope of the project. Needless to say, I was tired and fell asleep watching the 10 o'clock news and never heard him come home last night. He was off again this morning with only a quick kiss goodbye. I guess I get the boys all to myself both day and night. Hope they don't get sick of me!

Friday after school I finally let the boys get out the slip-n-slide. I thought it would be fun to celebrate the last day of school, and it was finally going to be 80 degrees outside - a must have for water fun at the Gull house.

A few of the neighbor kids came over and we played outside in the water and had treats. A friend brought down some treats too and had a bag of licorice that wasn't opened yet. Ethan came up to me and said, "Mom, this is the best party ever. And if we open this bag of licorice it will even be better."

What a kid!! Then when we were finally making them come in for the night. I think it was after nine Ethan said, "I can't believe it. When I wake up in the morning, I don't have to do anything!" Then he just giggled his Ethan giggle! I think the kid is excited for summer.

I remember to pull out the camera for some pictures of the kids outside on Friday. I took one picture of Alex and Katie and then the battery died. Just my luck!
It wasn't even that great of a photo...oh well. Next time, right?!

Bring on summer, I'm ready!.....I think.

A MAZ ING

2010-05-22T10:32:00.003-06:00

Three words. I CAN SEE!

Had my check up this morning, and I'm seeing 20/20. Truly amazing. The surgery went well and my mom came down to help with the boys while Mark was with me. She even took the boys out to a movie and brought back Iceberg shakes for everyone! I was feeling on top of the world - ice cream and eye sight - what more could a lady ask for?

A whole new world

2010-05-20T07:53:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow I say good bye to the glasses I've been wearing since I was in the third grade. That's almost 30 years!
Thanks to Mark, Dr. Hoopes, and our accummulating HSA account, when I wake up on Saturday morning, I won't have to look for my glasses anymore. I am totally excited and totally scared all at the same time. My little brother Tony assures me I'll love it! I just can't believe the day it actually here!

And while I'm talking about exciting and scaring news....last night the Erda Township APPROVED our subdivision, without any restrictions either! Now we have to go before the County Commissioners in a few weeks, and I think we're good to go! Hand me a shovel, and we'll start digging a hole! When Mark called to tell me the news last night (I choose to stay home with the boys this time!)
Ethan asked, "Is that Dad you're talking to? What is he saying? Can we build a house?"

We had told the boys what was going on and what the meeting was about. They were so dissappointed last month when we told them we still didn't know if we could build a house yet. When I told them that daddy said the people said we could build a house they were jumping up and down and screaming. It was pretty funny! Something I'll remember forever.

Then Aaron said to his brother, "Now we can get a trampoline."
Ethan then said, in all seriousness, "Yeah, but it's going to take SIX months to build a house."

I'm not sure where he came up with that, but he sounded like he was an expert on home building when he said it. I don't think come Christmas I'll have me a new home, but I'd certainly like to hope that I'll have one started!! Here's to hoping!

I think I'm in trouble....

2010-05-11T21:12:00.003-06:00

Tonight at dinner Aaron told us that he kissed a girl on the bus during a recent field trip. He then said, "I can't wait for our next field trip. I can kiss another girl."

I'm just thinking it's a good thing we get to walk to school. I don't know about letting him ride a bus daily -- could only mean trouble!!

Ethan fell a few weeks ago and scratch his chest on the big tree at Grandpa and Grandma Gull's. He was showing me how it was healing and said, it was like a cut where babies come out of moms. I told him it wasn't exactly the same, and that mom's who have to have their babies out that way have a cut a bit farther down on their tummy. He stopped me mid-sentence and told me that he didn't want to talk about that and informed me that his dad already told him he would tell him more about that when he's older, like when he was in college. Glad to know that Mark's taken care of that conversation.

Oh, the joys of being a mother!!

Bring on Summer

2010-04-19T13:19:00.008-06:00

I think it's official - summer may now come.

We enjoyed our first baseball game on Saturday and the boys got their first Slurpee of the season too! Until just recently they referred to Slurpees as "special drinks," as we only got to have them on "special" occasions.

Hello sunshine, I'm loving having you around!!

The Lord's Tender Mercies

2010-04-15T00:12:00.004-06:00

I loved Elder Bednar's talk about the Lord's tender mercies the first time I heard it, but tonight it has so much more meaning. "...Some may count this experience as simply a nice coincidence, but I testify that the tender mercies of the Lord are real and that they do not occur randomly or merely by coincidence. Often, the Lord’s timing of His tender mercies helps us to both discern and acknowledge them."

I also loved President Eyring's talk about seeing the Lord's hand in our everyday lives and taking the time to recognize it. "...Before I would write, I would ponder this question: “Have I seen the hand of God reaching out to touch us or our children or our family today?” As I kept at it, something began to happen. As I would cast my mind over the day, I would see evidence of what God had done for one of us that I had not recognized in the busy moments of the day. As that happened, and it happened often, I realized that trying to remember had allowed God to show me what He had done." Again, I need to recognize that the Lord certainly is mindful of my little family.

Tonight in our hurry to get out to Erda for our subdivision meeting, Mark and I rushed around the house and outside trying to get everything we would need for the evening. We would be dropping the boys off at Mark's brother's and his wife's so he and I could attend the township meeting. In our rush, Alex found his way out the door and started crawling down the stairs. He made his way out to the car port and was cruising along the Civic. I saw him there in my mad dash around the house. I was inside when I heard Mark yell my name and Alex screaming. I ran out thinking he must have fallen down the stairs. I threw my bag and phone down and looking for him on the stairs, he wasn't there.

It's strange now to think back of how my mind was working and thinking. I knew he wasn't on the stairs and I immediately looked a the car. Mind you, I am screaming. Crying. Then I started yelling, "Where is he?" I could tell that Mark had started pulling the car back out of the car port, and my stomach started to ache. I ran to the car looking behind the car, then under. Alex was screaming and trying to get out from under the car. He was crawling out from the driver's side next to the back wheel. I grabbed him and held him close, not knowing what to do.

Luckily, Mark was there to try and calm me down. My mother always told me I could never be a nurse. I've held up pretty good so far when it's come to cuts and blood, but this was totally different!!!

We truly don't know where Alex was when the car started pulling out in reverse or what happened to him. My only assumption is that he was standing behind the car, and was placed directly between the back wheels where he was protected in a sense as the car drove over him.

He has a bruise on his cheeks and some scratches along one arm, but other than that, he seems to be alright. We took him to see a doctor for an exam and she said he looked well. All I know is that he is here, he was protected.

Once we got in the car we realized we hadn't thanked the Lord for his hand in watching over our family. I made Mark pray, there was no way I was going to be getting any words out without more tears.

It's interesting how and when things happen. I just took Alex to his 18-month well-child-check up today. That's a whole other story, but basically the pediatrician we saw told me that children like Alex may have disabilities in some areas, but that they are blessed in others and that I needed to find that special gift of his. Today, HE is my gift.

His 18-month stats:
Height: 32 1/4" -- 50%
Weight: 23 lbs. 10 oz. - 20%
Head: 46 3/4 cm. -- 20%

I even took some pictures of him this morning with his hair all curly - he's my baby!
He was certainly looking pretty cute!

Good Thinkin'

2010-03-16T19:53:00.003-06:00

Found this on a website while checking out some movie information, not that I get to see movies all that often. But, it sure made me chuckle.

Note: No Children Under Age 6 Will Be Admitted To Any R-Rated Feature After 6:00 PM.

Great policy there, huh!? I'll have to remember that the boys will just have to see their rated-R movies BEFORE 6:00 p.m. Really, who takes their kids to a rated-R movie AFTER 6:00 p.m. anyway?!

Who makes up these rules!!!

Primary Jitters and Cheerleaders

2010-03-08T15:16:00.004-07:00

Each Fast Sunday Mark finds himself either teaching the YM's quorum, giving a talk in Primary, or conducting Fast and Testimony meeting. Yesterday he was on his first rotation in the Primary.

He had worked on putting together a cute little talk for the kids, complete with visual aids and everything. I was teasing him that I needed to come in and listen to him give his talk.

He stood up and told the Primary children that he was a little nervous because he hadn't given a talk in Primary since he was a little boy. Then from a few rows back, Ethan yelled out, "You can do it, Dad!"

I'm sure there were a few chuckles from the teachers and leaders, not to mention the smile it brought to Mark's face. But this got me thinking. Wouldn't it be nice to have a cheerleader for life's little trials? Someone there just giving you the encouragement you need to stand up and face the world.

I think that's what I need right now! My own personal cheerleader!

Tryouts start tomorrow!

Glitter Head

2010-03-05T08:11:00.003-07:00

So yesterday I walked into Target and stopped by the $1 section. I had to try on the bright green St. Patrick's Day hat for Alex. He of course thought I was funny. He wanted a turn too, so on went the hat on his head.

Then for the next 30 - 45 minutes we walked around the store, saying hello to all the other shoppers we met. I might also add that I found the perfect pillows for couches in the living room. At one point I noticed that Alex had some green glitter on his forehead, but didn't think much of it.

It wasn't until I got home and looked in the mirror that I saw what surprise the St. Patty's hat left for me. My forehead was covered in glitter, and I'm not exaggerating. I looked like some three-year-old had applied their green glitter make-up on me. I had to laugh that no one in the whole store said anything to me. Maybe they thought it was part of my outfit, I was wearing a shamrock green cardigan.

Mommy 101

2010-02-27T14:29:00.002-07:00

I seemed to have missed class the day moms were taught they must ALWAYS know where EVERY item in the house is located. Why? Why? Why should I ALWAYS KNOW where everything is?

Now if it's Mark's keys he's looking for, that MAY be my fault. I may or may not have been know for not putting his keys back in the drawer every time I use them.

But hey, give mom a break and just go look for that lost Lego yourself. Try and actually search for that lost shoe just once. Your mom would be proud, and hey, give the poor lady a break, she's tired and had a long day.

Man I'm Old!

2010-02-26T17:11:00.002-07:00

Today I turned 35. When my mom called to wish me a happy birthday, she asked me if I felt older. Today I do. I certainly do.

Case in point: I went to my exercise class - praying that I wouldn't pee my pants the whole time we did jumping jacks.

I finally got the chance to do my hair and there they are again...those stinky grays. Didn't I just dye my hair? It never ends.

When Mark asked what I wanted to do for my birthday, I seriously thought about telling him how about we get take-out and rent a movie.

Look at the numbers. I know. I've helped Ethan do his math homework - Four or less, just ignore. Five plus, add one more. Let's face it, baby! I'm basically 40! And that is just too much to handle.

Love is...A poem by kindergartners

2010-02-13T22:30:00.005-07:00

Aaron brought this home on Friday. I loved it. Happy Valentines Day to all those I love.

Love is taking care of someone - Isabelle
Love is making cookies - Aria
Love is being good to others - Emily
Love is letting others go first - Bridget
Love is being nice to friends - Kody
Love is helping friends when they're hurt - Cameron
Love is telling your mom you love her - Lai
Love is helping your mom - Kara
Love is playing with someone - Hyrum
Love is saying nice words - Aaron
Love is giving hugs and kisses - Natalie
Love is saying "I love you" - Laney
Love is giving people hugs when they don't have a friend - Wesley
Love is making someone's favorite food - Shela
Love is doing what your dad says - Michael
Love is giving hugs when others are sad - Phoenix
Love is giving hugs to dad - Donna
Love is making me feel good - Briggs
Love is giving high fives - Vianne

Aren't little kids the best?! I love what they have to say.

Along the lines of cute things said, here's another one-liner from Aaron.

This morning Mark took Aaron with him to The Home Depot. Apparently there was a women in the parking lot that needed help lifting a heavy box into her car. Mark went over and helped her out. As they were walking away, Aaron turned to Mark and said, "I get it, Dad. Other women are special too, not just Mom."
You see, Mark is always telling the boys and reminding them to treat their mother like a princess. Today Aaron learned that all women are princesses too.

Valentine Boxes

2010-02-13T22:10:00.008-07:00

Who knew that being in third grade was such a big deal? Not only is this the year you start receiving actually grades - A, B, C, and such - rather than the old 1, 2, 3, but you also graduate to the Valentine level of having to bring a decorated box from home for your valentines.

Thinking back, I totally remember valentines boxes as something important and fun to look forward to, but I certainly cannot for the life of me remember how I decorated any of my boxes. That said, I found myself all excited once again about making a valentines box -- that was until we actually had to start the whole processes.

Ethan is a boy. All boy that is. This meant there would be no hearts, no lace doilies, and definately no pink tissue paper involved. Our third idea was the winner. And, if I do say so myself, I think we did a pretty great job too! We made Ethan a locker made out of a saltine cracker box. I was just excited that we actually had everything in the house we needed to make the silly thing. Truth be told, I finished it up by myself the night before the party while the little guys slept. He helped me with the finishing details in the morning so I could say he did actually help me. Ethan really liked it and said he was going to keep it for next year.

I laughed when I I looked inside his cracker box and saw all the many valentines stuffed in there. You see, Ethan has a terrible problem with collectng things and clutter. He loves stuff!! Seeing the inside of that locker took my mind to the future and what his locker will look like when he's in highschool. I just hope the poor kid can find his text books when he needs them.

The mail never stops!

2010-01-29T16:47:00.004-07:00

Yesterday on our way to school we were waiting at the crosswalk when a mail truck stopped for us. I waved to the driver of the vehicle, and as we made our way across the street Aaron came up along side of me riding his scooter and said, "Newman!"

It caught me off guard. What did he mean? "Newman." Then it hit me. Had this boy seen that many episodes of Seinfeld with his mother that he actually knew Newman was a postal worker? I hope it was just a lucky guess. When I asked him about it later, he told me he didn't know who Newman was.

It got me thinking about my mail. I have to agree with the majority of Americans. I hate junk mail - it only clutters my kitchen counter tops. It never stops! Each day they keep bringing me more. And every time I go to my mailbox with my mail key in hand, I expect to find something on the other side. I'm disappointed when my little box is empty. That's one thing I miss when the Christmas holidays are over. REAL mail. You know the kind. Envelopes that have been addressed by hand. Call me selfish, but I love REAL mail. Keep the real mail coming Newman!

Not so sweet surprises

2010-01-22T22:20:00.002-07:00

We recently found some low-life creepers made their way into our shed and made off with a bunch of Mark's goods. Chuggers!!!!!

Two words. Robbers. Suck.

Sweet Surprises

2010-01-11T15:00:00.006-07:00

This morning when I heard a knock at the door, this is what I found on the other side.

Don't you love sweet surprises like fresh flowers; not to mention thoughtful husbands!?!

Along the lines of surprises -- I'm still trying to figure out whether it will be a sweet one or not is the fact that Mark was called to serve in our bishopric yesterday. I think this should be filed more under shock, rather than surprise. At least for me.

I am truly grateful to be part of such a wonderful ward family that has already shown such love and support not only for Mark, but for our family. I'm still trying to wrap my head around this all and what it means. I know the reality with hit me hard when Sacrament meeting rolls around next week, and I find myself on the pew with my three boys and dad sitting on the stand staring back at us. My good friend Terry has already stepped up to the plate and said she'll be my backup.

Like Mark said to me yesterday, when we toasted to the New Year and change, we didn't have this in mind.

Scooter II

2010-01-05T14:59:00.003-07:00

I don't remember now why, but for some reason I started calling Aaron "Scooter" when he was younger. I guess it just sounded right. Well, now that name seems more applicable for Alex. So, I guess he's our Scooter II.

We meet with Alex's specialist twice a month and seem to be making some wonderful progress. He's moving around quite a bit. He's not quite crawling yet, but I'm thinking we're going to be getting there before we know it. He's learned to pull himself up to such items as chairs, sofas, and endtables. It is quite exciting for all of us. I wonder sometimes when he makes his way into the bathroom and dumps out the contents of the garbage or wonders why there's water in this funny white thing everyones sits on if I really want this little guy on the move.

Here's to our Scooter II.

This is only a test

2010-01-04T23:13:00.000-07:00

Checking out the toy I got for Christmas...hope it works. Our little guy is making progress. He's now getting around using the scooter method.

Okay, I need some help...there is no "film strip icon" for me to click on to upload my video of my cute little guy. It should be a simple thing to post a video, but not for me!!! Ugggh!

Just imagine my little boy scooting his way across the kitchen tile to his favorite mom...it really is rather cute. If anyone out there in techno world has any ideas, please send them my way.

Did they really just say that?

2009-12-14T20:28:00.001-07:00

This morning Mark gave me a kiss and then said, "Let's go brush our teeth and then we can kiss."
I guess that was his polite way of tellling me I had morning breath he couldn't overlook and keep kissing me.

While writing our letters to Christ for FHE, Ethan was singing along to the Christmas music playing, he sang, "Glo...oooh.....oooh......oooh oria. In bang shellies say o!"
Mark started to correct him, when I quickly interrupted and asked him to sing it again so I could transcribe exactly what it was he was singing. I got a good laugh over that one!

Rock on!!

2009-12-06T22:44:00.002-07:00

The following photo was in the running for our family Christmas card. I thought it would be rather funny to use it and write, "Hope your Christmas ROCKS!" Needless to say, this was one of the few photos I found of the whole Gull family from this past year.
Well, I passed and went with a photo of just the boys, because really - who wants to see me on their Christmas card? It's all about the boys!

So here's my early Christmas greetings to the blogging world -
I hope your Christmas ROCKS!

Love, Mindy and the Boys

Labeled

2009-11-09T21:06:00.000-07:00

They came, they tested, they labeled.
Alex was labeled as developmentally delayed. Onward and upward.....

Bedtime 101

2009-11-09T21:03:00.001-07:00

Having trouble putting those little kiddos to bed? Well I've got it figured out.
After having put the two boys back in their beds for the third time tonight, ( I guess they weren't ready to settle down) I made a wonderful observation --
Since I put them to bed THREE times tonight, I should be off bedtime duty for the next two nights, right? Shouldn't it work that way?! This momma is thinking so!

Is it really only Monday? How many more night until Mark get home?

Glue and such

2009-10-30T20:06:00.000-06:00

I think I could fill this blog with daily conversations I have with Aaron. Today's latest that cracked me up:

Aaron was sitting at the table working on some project that required good ol' Elmer's glue. I was on the phone and not paying much attention to what he was doing when I looked down and noticed that he had used too much glue and was getting it all over his page.
When I asked how he was doing, he said, "I think I got too much glue, Mom."
My reply, "I think you're right."
Aaron then tells me, "Mom, I got myself into a sticky situation!"

The B-Word and other laughs

2009-10-28T09:56:00.000-06:00

Thanks for all your love and support! Only a few more days until I have my visit with the nurse, therapist, and social worker. They are all coming to our home to check out this little guy and his development. I'm feeling better about things and how he's coming along, even in the short time it has been since my last doctor appointment. We'll see!!!

Funny stories of the week:
After several and I mean SEV.ER.AL. hours of working at the rental trying to get things cleaned up and ready to show again for new renters, Mark said to us all, "What would you guys think if we had to move into this house?"
Ethan quickly replied, "We'll need a lot of Febreze!"
Again I'm reminded why I really hate cigarette smoke. Don't people read their contracts?

I was talking to a neighbor on her porch when a little 3-year old girl came up to me and said, "Aaron said the "B-word."
I stopped and looked at my neighbor, trying to figure out what to say. I really didn't think Aaron had ever even heard anyone use such a term as THE "b-word." I laughed it off and went to find Aaron.
When I found Aaron, he immediately said to me, "Mom, I know the B-word. It is for Halloween. But I can't tell you, it's bad."
I told Aaron, "You can tell me, just whisper it in my ear."
His reply, "BOO!"

Boy was I one relieved momma!!!

Not sure what to think

2009-10-16T01:12:00.000-06:00

Today I took Alex to his one-year well-child check up. I left the appointment feeling the worries of a concerned mother. I've learned through many experiences that it doesn't matter the situation, if one of my boys has something going wrong, I want to fix it. I don't want them to suffer, or be hurt, or struggle. I just want them to be happy little boys that love life and their surroundings. After the appointment I felt like the doctor I met with threw a wrench in the mix for my little Alex and me.

Alex is amazing. He's always had this mild manner about him. It seems as though he just watches what's going on around him and takes it all in. Long story short, the doctor was concerned about Alex's gross motor skills and asked me to meet with some health agency to review his progress and check things out more. I have no idea right now what this all means. I keep telling myself this little guy just wants to take his time to do things; its no big deal. I'm sure that's all it is.

But, whatever it is or is not, I know for certain, that I love the way he smiles when he sees me. I love the way he flaps his arms when he's excited, and I love that he is part of our family.

Party Baby!

2009-10-13T23:26:00.001-06:00

Since I had mutual tonight, we celebrated Alex's birthday with his two sets of grandparents a day early. And boy did we party!!
We had dinner together. Three words -- MarketStreet Clam Chowder. Yum-mo!! I love that recipe! It's a family favorite. At least Mark and I could live off of it.
Next we let him "open" his presents. I was a little confused at this whole part. Usually this kid goes crazy over paper. He wants it all the time, but not this time. He wasn't having much to do with the whole idea of seeing what was behind that paper. Luckily he had two big brothers that took care of him. Before I knew it, Ethan and Aaron were tearing into the box wanting to put his new walker/bike together.

How many men does it take to put together a baby walker? One daddy, two grandpas and two big brothers.
They finished the toy and Alex was in business.

Here's Alex checking out the goods.

By then I knew this kid needed to have his cake and eat it too. I'll go ahead and say it, I was rather proud of my cake effort.

My cake decorating class is actually coming in handy. We of course sang "Happy Birthday" and then slide the cake close to see what he would do with the whole candle thing. He was the normal one-year-old and stared at it for a minute before trying to grab at the flame. We laughed and then before I knew it, he had grabbed at the the cake and swiped a handful of icing off the edge. He gave those fingers a lick and then wanted to go at it with both hands. I wasn't sure what was more funny, watching Alex eat the cake and ice cream we gave him or listening to Ethan and Aaron laugh at how messy their little brother was.

But that's not the end of the cake story....there's more.

Friday, is my dad's birthday. So we cut grandpa a piece of cake and put the candle in it and surprised him when we starting singing to him. Once the cake was placed in front of him, he dipped his fingers in the icing and smeared some on both cheeks. Looking just like Alex. What a guy!! Love you, Dad!!

Another Milestone

2009-10-13T13:19:00.009-06:00

Is it true? Why, yes it is. I am now a mother of a one-year-old. Alex you are certainly a keeper. I wasn't sure what to think when I found out you were on your way, but there's no way I would change a thing about having you in our family. You bring a peace to our home that I often long for. Your mild manner is soothing to us all. We often wonder how you'll ever fit into this crazy home of ours, but you've certainly gone and made your way into our hearts. You have two big brothers that adore you and often times drive me crazy because they want to be RIGHT THERE with you, BOTH OF THEM, at the same time. They argue over who gets to sit next to you and who gets to make you laugh. Yes, they love you, Alex.
I know you make your daddy's day when you see him walk in the door and you flap your arms up and down in your little excited way. You make our hearts smile, Alex. We love you to pieces.

Aaron took this photo of us.

I know I look like a big cheeser, but hey, this is my baby on his first birthday - October 13, 2009!!!

Look how far we've come!!

Love you, Skooski!!

Good Cup of Cho

2009-10-01T09:49:00.002-06:00

Nothing could be better than a cup of hot chocolate in the morning. When we woke up this morning and it was colder than I wanted it to be; we had hot chocolate all around. Aaron, after taking his first sip said, "That's a good cup of cho."

I thought for sure he was trying to say, a cup of joe, like they say on The Polar Express. Then I thought he was maybe just abbreviating chocolate and just using cho.

When I asked where he heard about cho, he said, he didn't know, he just likes making things up.

So here's to fall, colder weather, and a good cup of cho.

Mindy and the Boys

2009-09-21T23:04:00.004-06:00

Step aside, here comes Mindy and the Boys! (This is how I always sign my cards, notes and such, but don't you think it would make a great name for a rock band?)

Tonight we played Guitar Hero with some neighbors. We don't have a wii, and I think I have played this game all of about two times before. I've never been much of a gamer when it came to video games; that was always Cameron's department growing up. But after playing tonight I think I could play me some music and rock it!!

FYI - I finally finished my trip log, posted below. You may need to clear some time in your calendar to read it, it's a long one!

In Search of Chocolate

2009-09-20T15:37:00.004-06:00

While searching the freezer for some hidden chocolate I found Mark's newest electronic gizmo that had obviously made its way from off the top of the fridge down into the freezer door.

Do I
a. wake him from his Sunday nap to tell about it.
b. grab the poor thing and try to warm it up in my armpit.
c. leave it there for him to find and keep looking for some chocoate.

Not knowing how long the poor thing has been hiding beside the orange juice, I just hope it still works. I'm just upset because my raid of the freezer left me high and dry -- no chocolate here, baby!!

Sunny San Diego

2009-09-13T21:32:00.018-06:00

After nearly 1900 miles, 74 Slugbugs, and more pit stops than I wish to recall, I'm finally ready to document our trip to California.
Warning. This really isn't a "quick recap," that would be impossible for me.

Thursday night - Sept 3 Mark drove home our rental van - a 2009 Toyota Sienna. Two words - Storage Space. This rental van was a lifesaver. I couldn't believe how much more room we had compared to our 97 Honda Odyssey. We drove to Mesquite and stayed the night in a cheap hotel.

Friday - We drove to San Diego, checked into our condo and stocked up on groceries. Costco and Albertsons, I felt right at home. The boys went swimming at the pool there which was filled with salt water. Never heard of such a thing and not sure I'm a fan.

Saturday - Legoland.

Big hit with the boys. They LOVED checking out everything. They were amazed at the first thing they saw made out of legos and had to just run up and feel it and make sure it was really made out of legos. They loved Miniland, USA. They got to play in the water too. Fun time for two little boys!!!!
Needless to say, they spent their vacation money at the Lego store and our condo became Legoland that night. They spent nearly 3 hours putting their new toys together and then playing with them.

Sunday - We needed some down time and that's just what we did. The temple was beautiful!

Monday - Sea World. Another big hit with the boys! How great to see and touch such things as star fish and bat rays. Although Ethan didn't think sitting in the Soak Zone was such a great idea, in fact he was crying about having to sit there. Granted, it was 8:30 at night and getting a little cold, but it was a funny moment watching Mark carry Ethan down to the soak zone and Ethan crying that he didn't want to get wet.

Tuesday - Beach Time. Mark's friend Matt lent us some boogie boards and before we knew it, we had two surf bums on our hands. It didn't take too long before they were hitting the waves. I learned that an 11 month old either loves or hates the sand. Alex had a love/hate relationship with the beach and I soon realized I did too. Walking in the sand is one thing, having it in places it shouldn't be is another. Try nursing a crying baby in your swimsuit when you are both covered in sand -- another great adventure for me and the little guy!!!

Wednesday - San Diego driving tour compliments of Mark and Callie (we named the GPS system my parents' let us borrow, another must have for long road trips). I also learned that with boys, shopping is definitely not on the itinerary. Pretty sure I didn't step foot in one gift shop except for the Legoland one. Seaport village was a quick walk through to the harbor where we checked out all the boats and cool sculptures along the walk way. We drove over to Coronando played on a cute playground with the beach and bridge as our background.

The boys really just wanted to hit the beach again, so we did. This time we went to La Jolla Cove. They were quickly disappointed when we were told they couldn't use their boogie boards. So, out came the snorkle gear. Both the boys did great, I guess I wasn't surprised; they really like the water. We also checked out the tide pools and saw little fish, crabs, and such. It was a beautiful area!!!

Thursday - Our last full day and I bet you can't guess what the boys wanted to do? BEACH DAY!! We spent more time boogie boarding this time at Torrey Pines State Beach. Again, they same story: sand, sand, and more sand, no more happy baby, no more happy mom. I loved watching Mark and the boys play out in the water. They were loving it! Holes were dug, bridges were made, feet were buried.

Mark also got to go on a 14-mile bike ride with Matt that afternoon. He did take a spill or two but couldn't stop talking about it afterward. I was glad he had such a great time.

The condo we stayed at had a nice club house with grills out by the pool too. Mark cooked us up excellent dinner that night, we watched us some Sandlot in the clubhouse and even played some pool and pingpong. I must say I was pretty good at playing pingpong with the boys while holding Alex in one arm.

Friday - We packed up and headed for Las Vegas.

It wasn't too bad of a drive. We got there and checked into our hotel and went out to dinner. Mark and I thought it would be fun to just drive the strip. The boys did enjoy looking out the windows and seeing the big buildings and lights and such. We all loved the fountain at the Bellagio and the ships at Treasure Island. Of course, a trip down the strip wouldn't be complete without a little spice. Needless to say, Aaron thought the scantily clothed girls on the truck next to us were a little funny and fun to look at. What better time to have a little lesson on modesty and respecting women.

Saturday - The final leg of the trip. We were getting anxious to get back home, and I know Alex was ready to be OUT of that car seat. We pretty much drove straight through, stopping only for ice cream in Beaver, this of course was on my scheduled itinerary.

It was great to pull into our drive way and know we were finally home. Whenever I am gone from home for an extended amount of time I always come home and find myself walking around and just staring at everything. It is hard to explain, but it always seems to happen.

My other favorite part of coming home from a long trip --- unpacking and laundry. Now that the boys are in school, I'll add HOMEWORK....Ethan and I are just barely catching up on all the homework his teach sent home to him the day he got back to school.

Eleven Years and Counting

2009-08-26T20:45:00.011-06:00

Today marks our 11th wedding anniversary. We were even married on a Thursday. My little brother Cameron was on his mission at the time, and knowing he wouldn't be there for our wedding(my brother that is, not Mark), I thought it would be appropriate to choose his "number" and thus is was, our wedding date, August 27, 1998.

My dad has this joke about a couple that said they had been happily married for 24 years, married for 30. I would have to say that although our lives together haven't always been easy, they have all been happy and worth it all. What a blessing it is to be married to man who loves me so much.

I realized while looking for a recent photo of just the two of us, that they are few and far between.

And so, I wanted to remind Mark of some of the reasons why I love him (in no particular order):
1. He gives the best hugs. There is no comparisons when it comes to hugs. He's got it.
2. He truly makes me laugh. I always tell him that he really isn't as funny as he thinks, but without him, life would be pretty boring.
3. He is always looking for ways to improve; whether it is himself, our family, or our budget. He continually wants to be better.
4. Because of #3, Mark helps me be a better person. I have to admit that I'm not always a fan of this, because I have to face my imperfections, but in the long run I know it's good for me.
5. Well, he is the dad of three adorable boys. I have to love him for helping them become a part of our lives.
6. He is a great dad to those three adorable boys. They look up to him so much and want to be just like him. Sometimes it is a little unnerving when Aaron's clothes HAVE to match dad's.
7. He calls me up in the afternoon just to see how my day is going and if I'm surviving another day with the boys.
8. He repeatedly reminds the boys to "treat mom like a princess."
9. He can fix anything. At least that's what he's got us all thinking. His handy man skills have certainly been used around this household a time or two.
10. He's a hard worker and is trying to instill this same characteristic in our boys.
11. Probably one thing that I love most about him is his selflessness. Mark always puts others before himself. He is definitely a GIVER.

I love you, Mark! Thank you for eleven wonderful years!
Your little Biscuit

Penny for my thoughts

2009-07-07T15:30:00.006-06:00

More like -- A quarter for my blabber--

My younger brother and his sweet wife just welcomed their first child into the world on July 3rd. Whitney Elizabeth came ready for the world, weighing in at 9 pounds 9 ounces. It is a little crazy for me to imagine Cameron as a dad. He was always just "my little brother." I am so excited for these two. They will certainly be great parents. Whitney is one lucky little girl.

It hit me the other day when I was talking to my oldest neice, (on the Woolf side at least) Brittney is 13. Wow, Brandon has a kid that's a teenager, this beautiful and quite mature young lady sitting next to me belongs to my brother; how did this all happen? Brittney was born the day after I went into the MTC. How have I let time pass by me?

Next month Mark and I will celebrate our 11th wedding anniversary and Ethan will turn 8. Somedays I find myself sitting at the dinner table just staring at everyone and trying to figure out how I got to where I am and why have I been blessed with so much?

I have three amazing boys to call my own. How they bring so much love and joy to me. They also drive me crazy and make me second guess myself, but at the end of the day, I wouldn't be the person I am without being their mother. But last night, I didn't want to be a mom. Alex hadn't been feeling well, and I had to decide whether or not he was sick enough to take to the doctor. He's nine months ,and I hate not knowing exactly what's wrong with the kid. He was just miserable. Anyway....the doctor said he has an ear infection and has since lost his voice from crying so much. I think the antibiotics are finally kicking in and he's finally able to get some sleep.

Looks like I need to run, Batman, (aka Ethan), Darth Vadar, (aka Aaron), and one of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, (aka our neighbor Isabelle) just ran out the front door. It's off to save the world!!!!!

A few firsts....

2009-06-17T16:30:00.010-06:00

Fashion 101
This morning as Aaron was in the shower, I performed one of my motherly duties and picked out some clothes for him to wear. When he looked at what I had chosen for him he said, "I can't wear that. Mom, you don't know fashion."
He then proceeded to pick out his own outfit, I was awaiting his return with great anticipation, wanting to know what is the latest in fashion for 5-year boys going to preschool for the day. He brought back a pair of basketball shorts and a t-shirt. He then began his explanation of why these clothes were a better choice.
"See mom, these underwear have white on them, this tag on my shirt is white, and these shorts have a white stripe."
Makes sense right!!?? This kid wants to match EVERYTHING. So you'd think he would look okay, right? Not always the case, but he really goes for matching outfits. I guess I should look into the Garanimals line of clothing for him. Sounds right up his alley. I just wonder what he thinks about what I pick out for myself to wear. I'll have to ask the kid. Guess it's good I don't go to preschool with him, I'm sure I'd embarrass him for sure.

PB&J
I know this sounds so un-American, but I don't like peanut butter sandwiches. The thought of peanut butter spread on two pieces of bread just never did it for me. I have no recollection of having them as a kid, although I'm sure mom made them for me. Eating them as a child has been suppressed from my memory.

Fast forward 30 years....

The other day I was making sandwiches for the little guys and thought, why not? Live on the wild side here Mindy. Mark said if I was actually going to try this out, I would have to use the crunchy peanut butter, not creamy. SO on went the CRUNCHY peanut butter and next came the strawberry jam. I laid it on thick, the jam that is, I thought I might need to ease into this peanut butter thing. Mark also said I would need a glass of COLD milk to accompanying this virgin sandwich. As they say, the rest is history.
You ask, what did Mindy eat for lunch today? Why a peanut butter sandwich of course. And all along I thought this PB&J thing was for the birds.

Let's play HOUSE!!!
Being the mom of three boys I never thought I would hear these words coming from them. Then a little girl moves into the neighborhood that my two older boys are smitten by and the next thing I know my boys are playing house. Today they actually called it "Family." Maybe that's more politically correct, I'm not sure, or maybe that sounded more manly for them. Either way, all I have to say is that they play for hours and they have quite the imaginations. It's getting a little confusing for me when I hear them calling for "Mommy" and they really don't want me but the aforementioned little neighbor girl.

Sign me up for Summer, maybe?

2009-06-04T09:42:00.003-06:00

Here I sit on the verge of summer vacation, and I'm not quite sure I am really ready for it to finally hit. You know the scenerio, no rush to eat breakfast or get out the door in the morning, kids riding their bikes in the street, playing in the sprinkler or splashing in the slip n' slide with the rest of the neighborhood kids, Otter Pops and more Otter Pops, lunch at the park, dirty little feet and sweaty faces. The list could go on and on. But this summer is different. This summer I have three little boys to hang out with, one of which that needs a bit more attention.

Now all I need to do is figure out how am I going to keep up with two little boys who want to be outside playing and their baby brother needs his mother inside. Somedays I wish I really was Elasti-Girl and could stretch myself a little bit further.

Sonic Good

2009-06-03T22:54:00.004-06:00

I just enjoyed myself a free rootbeer float -- compliments of Sonic. And did I mention that I L.O.V.E. rootbeer floats? I love them so much that when I (well, really my mom) was planning my wedding, I told my mom I just wanted to have rootbeer floats and popcorn at my reception. She even made it come true -- I know it sounds a little crazy, but she pulled it off in class.
So thanks are in order here -
First to my little sis, Marty, for giving me the heads up on FREE floats at Sonic.
Second to my lovely husband Mark, for driving to Sonic to get me a float when I know he really wanted to be in bed sleeping.
Third to the people at Sonic - and just like the cup says, it really is "even sweeter after dark."

Billy Blind Cleaners I'm Not

2009-04-28T22:47:00.002-06:00

I found time today to actually do the some "Spring Cleaning" that's been on my list of things to do for a while now. As much as I dislike cleaning windows and blinds, I really love the end result, just wish it would last longer.
I had to laugh though, as I was cleaning the blinds in my bedroom window, I couldn't believe what I saw. Pulling up to my neighbor's home was this big ol' white truck with "Billy's Blind Cleaner" plastered on the side. For a split moment I thought my dreams had come true and someone else was coming to clean my blinds for me, but alas, it wasn't true. If I wanted to have clean blinds, I was going to have to do it myself. To all those lucky people out there that actually have someone else clean their blinds, "Can you really enjoy your clean blinds as much as I enjoy mine?"

Just because it made me laugh....and I didn't want to forget it!
Yesterday Aaron was outside playing on the playground when he dropped something and exclaimed, "CRAP!"
I quickly turned to him and said, "Aaron, I don't think that's something we should say."
Aaron looked at me and very seriously said, "Okay, how about 'HOLY CRAP?'"

Another fun weekend

2009-04-21T22:41:00.002-06:00

Last weekend we were able to go to my parents' and spend time with Cameron and Miranda as well as see Margett and the kids before they all headed back home. Our stay included good food -- of course, playing grandma and grandpa's new wii (thanks to Cameron and Miranda), four-wheelers rides, Car Legos, throwing Easter Eggs up on Giraffe Hill, and stringing beads.

Mom made sure we enjoyed ourselves and let the girls make a beaded watch. They turned out super cute, at least I thought we did pretty well. I didn't even think about getting any photos of most our activites. I think we were just having too much fun.

Alex loved meeting his new cousin. They were born all of 14 days apart. The two boys got all decked out in their matching outfits. They were funny to watch with each other. Get them too close to one another and soon one would be sucking on the other's fingers or one would be pulling on the other. I'm sure they'll be great friends as the grow up.

After weekends like this, I really wish that my siblings lived closer. We are all spread out across the nation...good thing are hearts are knit together with love.

My New Adventure

2009-04-20T22:23:00.002-06:00

I flew under the radar for six months and enjoyed just going to church and not having to worry about Sharing Time or if all the Primary Teachers would be there. It was good while it lasted. One Saturday morning about a month ago, I received a call from the Stake President who asked that Mark and I meet with him later that evening. Needless to say, that's not my way to start off a Saturday. The rest of the day was filled with worrying about what it was he wanted to see us for. I was convinced that he was giving Mark a new calling.

As it turned out, the calling was for me. Uggggh! A new program would be implemented for the Young Men and Young Women, and I was asked to help out. Our stake has very few youth, a total of 32 MiaMaids. Our Stake President has asked that we combine the mid-week activities or mutual with the six wards and do this by age-groups. I am the Stake MiaMaid Committee Leader, which in short means I oversee the MiaMaids' weekly mutual activity, and chair a committee of six Young Women 1st Counselors from each ward.

I haven't been in Young Women's for a while now...it's been fun to back. We've only had one activity so far, but I look forward to working with the MiaMaids. Haven't served with them before, always been with the Beehives.

If anyone out there has any great ideas they would love to pass on, I'm all ears!!

6 months old

2009-04-20T22:14:00.003-06:00

Is he really 1/2 way to one?
Here's the little guy's 6 month stats...
Height: 27 1/2 inches
Weight: 16.7 pounds

Today I retired his swing and in its place is his highchair. I didn't think the house was ready for one more baby item without getting rid of something first. This little guy is taking over with all his contraptions!
I also fed him some rice cereal for the first time. He wasn't sure about it all at first, but then he seemed to enjoy it more as he continued. All this means to me is that he isn't going to stay my little baby for long...

Playing Tricks

2009-04-01T22:50:00.005-06:00

I thought I learned my lesson way back in high school, that some April Fool's jokes are just not that funny. Apparently, I forgot.

I don't remember whose idea it was, Meridee's, Anneke's, or mine. All I remember is that I was the one chosen to talk, or should I say, cry, on the phone to Meridee's mom. After we let her in on the joke, she let me know that we weren't funny at all. I think that was the only time I ever heard Sandra raise her voice. She wasn't impressed by our April Fool's joke.

Today Ethan told me he didn't think my joke was very funny either, and he didn't want me to play jokes on him again next year.

Dinner time rolled around and I told the boys since it was April Fool's Day, we could eat backwards and have dessert first. Yes, we would start with dessert - cupcakes!!! Ethan thought this was GREAT, until he got a closer look. They were very suspicious and soon realized these were not your ordinary cupcakes -- they were "beefcakes." Yes, a yummy meatloaf cake topped with mashed potato icing. I thought they were actually rather tasty!! Ethan just couldn't get over the fact that we really weren't have cupcakes....

I told them they HAD to eat their dessert in order to get their dinner. They thought that was funny! I didn't have any complaints tonight on "dinner." Dinner was complete with mashed potatoes and gravy (ice cream and grandma's caramel sauce) --side note here, Aaron and I pulled this one last year, and Aaron thought it was the best joke ever!!! I had to do it again! -- fish sticks (cream wafer cookies covered with icing and graham cracker crumbs), and peas (Apple AirHeads, shaped into little balls - or what was left of them after Aaron found them and shared them with his friend Isabelle).

Overall, I still think I'm pretty funny, and I had a fun time doing this for the boys, even though I'm beginning to think it was all just for me. Either way, I'm guessing this time next year I'll be trying to think of something else to feed my boys on April Fools Day!!

Where have you been?

2009-03-16T22:12:00.002-06:00

I haven't forgotten my blog these days...I have been blogging, just on another site. I have been helping a friend of mine put together a site for her wedding decoration business. It still needs lots of work and if you looked at it, you'd think we hadn't done much work on it, but let me tell you, we have. It's a little funny how everytime I try working on something for Terry Jo, things take at least twice as long as they should. Poor Terry, I tell her this blog thing really isn't this hard, that she can do it herself; then posting a single picture takes 1/2 hour to do!!! AHHHH!

I will certainly add a link once we get things looking as they should. Terry is an amazing lady. She always makes me laugh and is a great example to me. I truly love this lady!! She's one of the reasons I continue to get myself out of bed and go workout. I know Terry will be there and keep me going when I think I'm about to die!! Everyone needs a Terry Jo in their lives!!

Give Away Today

2009-03-09T15:00:00.002-06:00

No, I'm not giving something way, well not really, but keep reading. I thought I might be lucky, so I'm posting this here for another chance to win something -- check it out --http://www.giveawaytoday.blogspot.com/
I'm pretty sure my two boys would think I was pretty cool if I won them some tickets to go see Peter Pan ice skating around with the gang from the Lion King...here's to hoping I might win...

Mr. Gull's 4-month stats

2009-02-25T21:15:00.004-07:00

Height: 25.5 inches
Weight: 14.5 pounds
Head: 16.25 inches

He's growing up way too fast for me - I know I hate when people tell you that, but I guess it's true. I'm trying to enjoy each day as it comes and goes. I won't have another little guy to enjoy...at least not until I'm a grandma. I love this guy's smile and the little laugh he's developing. I most love watching him watch his two big brothers and his dad. It just seems that he already thinks the world of them.

Mommy loves you, Alex!!

May I see your card, sir?

2009-02-22T13:55:00.003-07:00

Every time I enter the doors at the local Costco, I am greeted by an employee asking to see my membership card, and every time I show them my card and grab a cart and wonder what yummy samples they are serving. I have started to wonder how soon this will all come to an end for me. Apparently, my husband doesn't believe in showing his card when he enters the doors at Costco.

A few weeks ago Mark and I went to Costco. As we entered the door, the man said, "Sir, do you have your card?" Mark simply answered in the affirmative. The man then said, "May I see your card, sir?" To which Mark basically ignored and loaded the boys in the cart and went on his way. At this point, I was a little paranoid that this guy was going to track us down in the store and MAKE us show him our membership card. Could he take our card away? Would our trips to Costco be coming to a traumatic halt?

We made it through unharmed, yet Mark continues to believe he is exempt from showing his card as he enters the store. He told me the other day the woman at the door said she was calling security on him. He is such a rebel. But then, why do you have to show your card as you go in? It's not like you can buy anything without a card anyway! Maybe Mark has a point.

I just know that the next time I go to Costco, I will automatically take out my card and flash it to the person standing there - my entrance through the Costco doors shall remain untainted, as long as I don't let Mark come with me!!!

Where are the keys?

2009-02-12T22:59:00.002-07:00

I must be getting old, at least that's what I'm telling myself. I can no longer blame my forgetfulness on being pregnant. I think I rode that one for all it was worth, but really, I have to admit, I have a problem. If there was a Twelve-Step program for overcoming this, I would be the first to sign up. There's actually two parts to my problem and I would like to explain them both.

1- I just can't seem to keep track of my keys. Simple responsibility, I know, but I often find myself running around the house, searching for the keys. Poor Mark, he has to deal with this too. Whenever I take his car or borrow his church keys, chances are, they're not back in the drawer where they are suppose to be.

This morning it was time to take Ethan to school, and surprise, the keys were missing. I finally gave up looking for them and took the spare key so I could get my son to school on time. Then, low and behold, when Ethan opened the door, there were the keys, just hanging there in the lock - OUTSIDE. Now mind you, they had been there for over 15 hours - they had been there all night long - they had been there and ANYONE could have come right in our house - they had been there and I was all alone with my three little boys (Mark's out of town for work). I just had to thank the Lord for keeping us safe through the night and for helping us finally find the keys.

2- I hide things on purpose. I'm sure I'm not the only mom that does this. You know, hiding things so the kids won't find them, be it a Christmas present, chocolate chips or my sewing scissors, I have to hide things from my boys. They are amazing at finding things I don't want them to have. Aaron has told me many times, after finding something, "I found your hiding place mom, you can't trick me."

So when you add these two problems together, my forgetfulness and hiding things on purpose, the only thing you get is a disaster. Case in point, Ethan's Valentines!!! I helped the boys put their class valentines together on Tuesday. Aaron took his to preschool on Wednesday and that made it nice to have them all done for Ethan. Problem - a bag full of candy just sitting on top of the fridge for three days. Everything was fine until this morning when Aaron found the bag and helped himself to the candy for Ethan's class. Now there weren't enough treats for the whole class. I told him that wasn't too nice and took the bag. I then had to go back to the store to buy more candy for Ethan's class. I broke the news to Ethan and told him I got even better treats this time, so everything would be just fine. My only problem, I couldn't remember where I stashed the valentines and left over candy. Finally I told Ethan I wasn't sure what we were going to do. He said we should pray and ask for help. Of course, leave it to Ethan to come up with this plan. I reminded him that Heavenly Father might not be able to help us immediately, that I would have to think about it some more and maybe by the morning I would remember where the bag was. It wasn't but 2 or 3 minutes later that I thought of a place they might be that I hadn't checked. Sure enough, there they were. Problem solved, right?! at least until the next time Mindy tries to hide something from the boys or Mark needs his car keys.

"Living the Good Life"

2009-02-10T23:16:00.002-07:00

Who said it? Yes, that would be our crazy Aaron. He's one of a kind. I missed posting anything on this guy's birthday. I guess I won't try and make any lame excuses, we still love you, Aaron!! You have such a great love of life and you bring so much happiness to everyone around you. I love (well most of the time) how you like to make others laugh. Happy 5th Birthday to my little "Ground Hog Baby."

Course 2 Graduate

2009-02-10T22:53:00.003-07:00

Luckily I wasn't graded on my work, otherwise I most likely wouldn't have passed. I learned alot, had a fun time, and met some rather nice ladies. Here is a pic of the cake I created for my final class. We learned the basket weave and had to top the cake with all the flowers we were taught during the course. I had to be a little rebelious and made a color flow lady bug instead of the bird they have you make in the Wilton book. My next adventure, cookie decorating.

Black Eye Girl

2009-02-10T22:12:00.006-07:00

It's taken me forever, but I finally downloaded some photos from my camera. With the computer upgrades, I haven't been all together in the computer area. But, here they are, some funny pics of Mindy the Bruiser...

February 1 - Night of the Super Bowl and Round 1 of Mom vs. The Crusher.

February 2 - Mindy and her "purple eye liner"

February 3 - It just kept getting more and more colorful. I think it was the next night that Mark thought it looked the best, but I didn't take any picture. My eye is still a little bruised, but it's looking much better. I'm starting to wonder when this glue is going to come off.

Super Bowl Party Gone Bad

2009-02-03T23:09:00.002-07:00

We really didn't have a Super Bowl party, but every Sunday here we get to experience some of the same hard hits and tackles they have in the NFL. My boys love to "tickle," at least that's what they call it -- what it really is is WWF. I've tried to stay clear of any pillow fight or wrestling they engage in, especially when I was pregnant. Now that Alex is here, I just say, I've got the baby and can't play with you guys.
So Sunday night, like clockwork, the boys began their regular routine of playing with dad. I thought to myself, (and now I'm wondering where this thought came from) if I tackle Mark and start kissing him, maybe they'll leave him alone. I think I really just wanted to try and put some moves on my husband. I pushed him down on the couch and was about to kiss him, when the CRUSHER, (that's what Aaron has named himself when they wrestle) tried to get in the middle of things. Not sure how or what, all I know is that my head sure hurt and I started crying. I was holding the side of my face when I realized I was bleeding. I assume my glasses meeting Aaron's head had to be the culprit...I had about a 3/4 inch cut on the side of my eye. Once we got things cleaned up I debated whether or not to go to Instacare and ask about stitches. Long story short, because this is already too long...we put the boys to bed and had a neighbor kid stay with them while Mark took me to the doctor. The doctor said he could glue it shut, and I think he did a pretty good job. I just didn't want to have a bad looking scar at the corner of my eye. Heaven knows I'm going to have enough wrinkles there soon enough. I also had to get a tetanus shot. So when my head finally stopped throbbing, it was my arm that started hurting.
Now, I'm just bruised - from my black eye to my arm. I'm looking pretty sad. You can all feel sorry for me. I'll take your sympathy.

Upgrading...

2009-02-03T23:00:00.003-07:00

We recently upgraded our computer and monitor. I went from a 17 1/2 inch monitor to a 19 inch monitor. Doesn't sound like a big deal, but let me explain. That's not 17 1/2 inches wide in the viewing angle, but 17 1/2 inches deep. You know, one of those monitors from the dark ages. It makes me laugh to look at the old monitor and compare it to our new ones. Yes, that's plural. We have two monitors. Mark says I'll never want to go back to one monitor. I'm still just getting used to how much space I have on one monitor compared to my old one.
So for now, I still don't have everything loaded on my new system and things in the office are all a mess. I'm really behind on posting somethings that I thought were blog worthy, if there is such a thing. I'll have to post now and add photos later, when I can...

Did I mention?

2009-01-22T23:38:00.011-07:00

I have one stinkin' cute baby!!! Alex just makes me happy. Tonight when giving him his bath, I just couldn't get over how much I love this little guy. He keeps me calm and makes my heart smile. Alex is just what I needed -- I just didn't know it! - He's already three months old.

Also pictured here are my new glasses - I've deemed them the Mullot of Eyewear, business in the front, party in the rear. You can kind of tell from this picture that they are two different shades, a brown on the outside and this funky turquoise on the inside.

Pictured below is Alex with his Kramer hair. I haven't really cut his hair on top and it's a little long. But when the kid has his bath and it's all wet, it curls really cute and I have to admit I like it. It's the one thing I know he got from me. You have to be sure to "straighted" his hair after his bath or else he's going to have the infamous Kramer hair until it gets washed again.

Does the bell still ring for you?

2009-01-22T23:18:00.002-07:00

This morning I broke my little boy's heart.

Ethan got a Zero Gravity Micro for Christmas from Santa. If you remember, his letter requesting this gift is in an other posting. The car is pretty cool, it drives on walls using some sort of suction mechanism and he LOVED getting it. Problem? The suction mechanism stopped working. He called the Troubleshooting Hotline and got some pointers on ways to eliminate the problem but they didn't help, so this morning he called them again. Ethan was cute trying to tell this guy what was going on but then the guy asked to talk to a grownup. Ethan gave me the phone and stood there listening while the guy drilled me on some questions. Then the killer guestion came, "Where did you purchase the car?" Without thinking, I said, "I bought it at Toys-r-Us." Ethan's eyes got big and he said, "I knew it, that's how it works."

What had I done? When I got off the phone, I tried to smooth things over and thought I did a pretty good job. Ethan went to get dressed for school and I assumed the problem was solved. When I went to check on him he looked a little sad and when I asked him what was bothering him he said, "I just wanted Santa to be real!!" And then the poor kid started to cry.

I couldn't have my little guy's dreams shattered, not when he's so little, not when the possibility of Santa not being real made him cry. So I just told him, "Mom lied!! I am sorry, but I had to lie to that man. (the customer service guy) I told him that I bought the car at Toys-r-Us. But you asked Santa for that toy and it was Santa that brought it to you."

Did I make the right choice? What will Ethan think of me? I'm not sure, but holding Ethan on my lap this morning as he cried, I knew Santa had to be real -- for him and for me.

The bell still rings for me and for all those who truly believe....

What do you get?

2009-01-22T23:11:00.004-07:00

What do you get when you ask your son to go brush his teeth before church starts?

A Dixie cup tower of course!!!

Aaron loves building things, especially with his Legos. Apparently the cups in his bathroom needed a little rearranging . Either that or he was practicing the apostacy cup lesson we did as missionaries back in the day.

My little builder boy.

My first attempt

2009-01-22T22:50:00.006-07:00

So last Sunday I tried my hand at some of the things I learned at my first cake decorating class. Needless to say, the boys thought I was the best...great confidence booster. That only lasted until Tuesday night when I went to my second class and came home feeling rather frustrated that I couldn't make my flowers look like my instructor's!!! Mark said I just needed to practice. Was he just being nice or did he just want me to make another cake?

Either way, it's been fun! There are only three ladies in the class and they are both rather fun to be with. And like Tiffany said, (fellow classmate) "Now I can have a hobbie."

Please don't enlarge the pic, then you'll really see how much I NEED to practice. Just take a quick glance and think, "Man, Mindy might just have a chance of working for Duff on Ace of Cakes."

My soap box for the day...

2009-01-07T15:30:00.004-07:00

Ever since I started working for the Taylorsville Police Department nearly three years ago, I've been more mindful of crossing guards, school zones and pedestrians in general. Tonight I will attend the viewing of a dear man I had the opportunity to become acquainted with as we worked as crossing guards together. Jim passed away after being hit by a car one morning while placing cones out in the street at his crossing. I just want to remind everyone to watch for others while driving, especially in school zones. I know I've had my share of close calls with cars and drivers not watching as I've worked as a crossing guard. If your children walk to school, thank your crossing guards, they truly keep your children safe.

Heard around the house...and in my head

2009-01-04T17:18:00.004-07:00

Ethan: (while watching the UofU vs. Alabama game) Mom, did you see that guy?
Mindy: No, how come?
Ethan: Did you see his hair? It was all sticking up in the middle and it was all red and then on the sides it was all white and kinda gone. (shaved was my guess)
Mindy: Wow!
Ethan: He probably wasn't a member, huh?
Mindy: A member of what?
Ethan: A member of the church, cuz members of the church don't do that kind of thing.
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Aaron: Mom, get the video camera.
(A few minutes later, and me still eating my cereal and trying to write a list of some sort.)
Aaron, wearing his new hoodie from Grandma and singing to his new Tooth Tunes toothbrush: Look at me, Mom. I'm a rockstar. Where's the camera?
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Mindy: Mark, why do these boys have to break my things!!??
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Mark: Ethan, Aaron, I said no food on the carpet!!!!
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Alex: Aaaahhh!
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Random thoughts in my head:
Hope of a new year. It's a new year and I do love the hope a new year brings; a chance to start anew, to improve myself and try to be the person I truly want to be.

Cake Decorating. Mark said I needed to give myself at least one night a week to myself and so I've decided to follow through and take him up on the chance to get away for a few hours and do something I want. I decided to take a cake decorating class - I know, nothing life shattering, but it's something I said I wanted to do for a long time and I've never done, so here it goes. I hate when I say I'm going to do something and don't do it. Signing up for this class is more than just that, a cake decorating class, to me it symbolizes more.

Food storage.....ahhhh!

Snow: Last night we were out in Erda, driving down a country road with lots of trees and bushes. It was so beautiful - I love when snow collects on the branches. It truly was a winter wonderland.

Too much anticipation

2008-12-24T08:31:00.003-07:00

Aaron just can't take it!!! And now, I'm is starting to wonder if I will obtain my goal for today - be a good mommy and not yell at the kiddies....

Reflection

2008-12-17T17:13:00.003-07:00

How time changes things...
On Sunday our family met with our good bishop for tithing settlement. Mark is our ward's financial clerk, so he was already at the church when we got there. He had been going through old documents and shredding them. When I walked in, he handed me some papers and said, "Take a look at that."

I assumed these were our statements from 2008 and that I should review them before meeting with the bishop. They were actually our statements from 2005. When I looked at the total contributions for the year, I could hardly believe the amount; this was during a time where we as a family were struggling to stay afloat. Mark had lost his job of 10 years, and we were basically starting over. I often wondered how we were going to make it and take care of our growing family. I had to put some of my pride aside and let others help us. Where are we now?

I know you don't need all the details, some I would rather forget about anyway. But since that time, Mark has not only received a bachelor's degree, he's also graduated with a Master's degree. He has a great job working full time as a civil engineer, and I actually have a part time job using some of the skills I went to school for. I work as a contractor updating and editing web pages for OSHA.

I sometimes wonder why our Heavenly Father blesses our family so much. There is so much more we could be doing better in our lives, yet, as the loving Father He is, he sees fit to bless us and help us along this journey we call life.

Little A's special Day

2008-12-08T22:59:00.005-07:00

I knew I was blessed to have a wonderful husband, but after days like today, I'm reminded of it even more. I'm grateful that Mark was able to give Alex his name and blessing.

The blessing Mark gave was amazing to me. I didn't cry until Mark sat back down next to me, then I couldn't stop. Mark said that Alex just sat there and smiled and watched him the whole time.

Mark found some information for me on LDS.org from an Ensign article from December 1988 (the article I'm referring to isn't at the top of the page, it's the second question, that of naming and blessing a child) that helped me better understand the importance of this ordinance. After reading what Mark found, giving Alex his name means so much more to me. I wish I had the URL to where Mark found this material, it answered my question and gave some great insight to this ordinance. How grateful I am to be Alex's mother, to have helped create his little body and be able to name him.

I guess I needed to better appreciate my good husband and be reminded of how much he does for us as a family and for me specificially. Now he has to go out of town on business for the week. I am a little worried as this will be the first time he's been gone since we've had Alex. I get to be the mom to THREE boys all by myself. I'm just hoping I'm up to the challenge and that I'll be blesssed will be LOTS of patience. I'm going to need -- I'm just sure of it.