I know I have said this many times before but I can't help but repeat it---I love being a Mom! I loved my babies, their sweet dependence on me for everything, their cuddles and the way I was the center of their world! I loved being with them--I was one of those moms that never put my babies down, took them with me everywhere (we rarely had sitters when we weren't working, babies are just so easy to haul everywhere) and couldn't wait to get home from work to them. I loved my toddlers, their bright-eyed curiousity with the world. I loved getting down to their level and exploring everything with them. Okay, so maybe the bugs and other crawly things weren't so great, but they thought so. I loved my elementary kids, their love of learning and sharing. I loved sitting and listening to them as they learned to read, discovered the joy history and science. Math was not a favorite of mine but they all had the excitement when they finally GOT it! I love my teens and the different stages they are at right now. Syd as she finishes her last year of elementary school and prepares for junior high. Charlie as he prepares to begin his first year of high school and Cole as nears graduation and is applying at colleges, etc. I have wonderful, awesome kids--I not only love them, I like them as people. They are my favorite people in the whole world. Even with all the things I have done in my 41 years of life--those three people are my greatest accomplishments! So, that is why I have dreaded December 15, 2009 for the last 18 years.
My baby has become an adult! Cole is officially a man, a truly wonderful man, and I hope that my influence and teachings over the last 18 years have helped in some way to shape him into who he is today. I sometimes wonder who has learned and developed more---I am who I am today from our time and adventures together. I have mixed feelings as he moves in a new direction. I miss that he doesn't need me and possibly will be moving far away in the next 6-7 months but he is ready. He is a strong, capable and smart man and he will succeed!
No one can truly prepare you for parenthood! No book, no doctor or friendly (and no so friendly) advice can really prepare you for the realities of parenthood. The years (yes, new moms, years) of little sleep, the fears, the joys, the tears, the adventures, the illnesses, the homework, the broken arms, the elation, the frustration but most of all the incredible LOVE of being a parent. I wouldn't change a single moment of the last 18 years of motherhood and I am excited for the years to come as they bring new journeys in motherhood and grandmotherhood.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
It's over!!!
After six years (because he took a break), Eric has finished his Master's degree in Public Health. We are so happy at our home! It has been a rough last six months as Eric was in the last stages with his internship. If you didn't already know, I am married to an amazing man! He has worked full-time (including picking up extra work due to reductions in force), worked as an intern for the Tobacco Prevention program, attended kids lacrosse games, maintained a garden (and house), held a church calling, helped Cole with his service academy applications (which went on FOREVER) and still found time to bake for his family and others. Whew! I am tired just thinking about the pace he has kept up for so long---but it has been so worth it to see his accomplishments.
I am so proud of him! Good job, babe!
I am so proud of him! Good job, babe!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
So much to be thankful for...
1. My incredible husband.
He treats me like a queen and our kids like the treasures they are to us. But is doesn't just end with us, he treats everyone with compassion, respect and love (even perfect strangers). I will sometimes tell him that he is too nice (I am very cynical) but he just does it and sometimes people hurt him but it never stops him from helping the next person.
2. My oldest, Cole.
He is my first greatest joy. Having been told I may not have children, going through fertility treatments and a difficult pregnancy, his birth was a happy day for me. I held him and all the heartache and difficulties melted away. The last 18 years with him have been wonderful. He was a loving, outgoing, confident child and now young man, who has such a bright future ahead of him. He makes friends easily because people know how much he is really interested in them. I can't wait to see what the years bring him!
3. My Charlie.
My joy doubled the day Charlie was born. I had a curious, active four year old who could run circles around us (still does) and then Charlie with his peaceful, loving spirit came into our home. He balances out his brother and they are the best of friends! As an infant and then toddler, Charlie would wait patiently while I dealt with his high-maintenance brother without a complaint and then he knew he would have my attention. He still waits patiently for others. He is my peace. My heart broke the day almost 11 years ago when he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes but he has been my hero. As a three year old, he would never complain about the shots, blood tests, etc (we did battle over eating, he didn't want to) and even as a 14 year old, he rarely complains even though we know it SUCKS! He deals with so much and is still the calming spirit in our home.
4. Syd, Sissa, Squid or Wampus (depending on who you are)
Our family was complete the day Syd was born. After two boys, a little girl was a change for us. Her joyful personality has had the four of us in giggles from the very first moment. That same personality is what makes our home the stomping ground for her numerous friends, people love to be around her. She is smart, witty and high maintenance. She is fierce defender of anything she perceives as a wrong and is very tender-hearted. She is my best girlfriend!
5. My wonderful parents, Therice and Hazel
My Dad has always been my hero, not just for his unwavering sacrifice to his country but for that same sacrifice to his family. He adores my Mom and treats her like a queen. From a young age, I knew how a husband should treat a wife and was told by my Dad to never accept anything less. My Dad is also my peace, my love of all kinds music comes from the way he helped me deal with problems. My Mom is an incredible, smart, loving woman. I grew up knowing I wanted to be just like her. She raised seven very different, stubborn kids, sometimes with no husband around, and survived it! She never stopped learning even though she had obtained her Bachelors degree before marrying my Dad. Whereever we were stationed, she would find some way to take class or learn something new. She passed her love of learning onto her children and so when she was getting her Masters degree, we were right there rooting for her and helping with research. Both of my parents are my strength. I know I can do anything because they told me I could!
6. My in-laws.
Beverleigh and Keith are Eric's parents and that should be enough but they are also wonderful people. They are very generous, loving and service-minded not just with their family but in the church and community as well. People know they can ask them to do something and it will be done correctly and with love. I couldn't have asked for better in-laws.
7. My siblings.
I have four older brothers, an older sister and a younger sister. Growing up they were my best friends, we didn't need anyone else. We had our arguments (or discussions as we called them) and sometimes we could be mad for days but if anyone or anything threatened another one of us, we would rally and take care of it. I always wanted a boy first because I wanted my other children to experience the joy of having an older brother who would love and protect them. I had four! My older sister, Lilley, is 10 years older than I am and waited a long time for me to join the family. She and my sister, Julia, were my only real girlfriends growing up. They are to this day, my best friends.
8. The gospel of Jesus Christ.
I am grateful for Jesus Christ and his ultimate sacrifice. His gospel makes me want to be a better person and to live one day with my family in the eternities.
9. My friends
I have been so blessed through the years to have many people come in and out of my life. They have added to who I am and been there just as I needed them.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all!
He treats me like a queen and our kids like the treasures they are to us. But is doesn't just end with us, he treats everyone with compassion, respect and love (even perfect strangers). I will sometimes tell him that he is too nice (I am very cynical) but he just does it and sometimes people hurt him but it never stops him from helping the next person.
2. My oldest, Cole.
He is my first greatest joy. Having been told I may not have children, going through fertility treatments and a difficult pregnancy, his birth was a happy day for me. I held him and all the heartache and difficulties melted away. The last 18 years with him have been wonderful. He was a loving, outgoing, confident child and now young man, who has such a bright future ahead of him. He makes friends easily because people know how much he is really interested in them. I can't wait to see what the years bring him!
3. My Charlie.
My joy doubled the day Charlie was born. I had a curious, active four year old who could run circles around us (still does) and then Charlie with his peaceful, loving spirit came into our home. He balances out his brother and they are the best of friends! As an infant and then toddler, Charlie would wait patiently while I dealt with his high-maintenance brother without a complaint and then he knew he would have my attention. He still waits patiently for others. He is my peace. My heart broke the day almost 11 years ago when he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes but he has been my hero. As a three year old, he would never complain about the shots, blood tests, etc (we did battle over eating, he didn't want to) and even as a 14 year old, he rarely complains even though we know it SUCKS! He deals with so much and is still the calming spirit in our home.
4. Syd, Sissa, Squid or Wampus (depending on who you are)
Our family was complete the day Syd was born. After two boys, a little girl was a change for us. Her joyful personality has had the four of us in giggles from the very first moment. That same personality is what makes our home the stomping ground for her numerous friends, people love to be around her. She is smart, witty and high maintenance. She is fierce defender of anything she perceives as a wrong and is very tender-hearted. She is my best girlfriend!
5. My wonderful parents, Therice and Hazel
My Dad has always been my hero, not just for his unwavering sacrifice to his country but for that same sacrifice to his family. He adores my Mom and treats her like a queen. From a young age, I knew how a husband should treat a wife and was told by my Dad to never accept anything less. My Dad is also my peace, my love of all kinds music comes from the way he helped me deal with problems. My Mom is an incredible, smart, loving woman. I grew up knowing I wanted to be just like her. She raised seven very different, stubborn kids, sometimes with no husband around, and survived it! She never stopped learning even though she had obtained her Bachelors degree before marrying my Dad. Whereever we were stationed, she would find some way to take class or learn something new. She passed her love of learning onto her children and so when she was getting her Masters degree, we were right there rooting for her and helping with research. Both of my parents are my strength. I know I can do anything because they told me I could!
6. My in-laws.
Beverleigh and Keith are Eric's parents and that should be enough but they are also wonderful people. They are very generous, loving and service-minded not just with their family but in the church and community as well. People know they can ask them to do something and it will be done correctly and with love. I couldn't have asked for better in-laws.
7. My siblings.
I have four older brothers, an older sister and a younger sister. Growing up they were my best friends, we didn't need anyone else. We had our arguments (or discussions as we called them) and sometimes we could be mad for days but if anyone or anything threatened another one of us, we would rally and take care of it. I always wanted a boy first because I wanted my other children to experience the joy of having an older brother who would love and protect them. I had four! My older sister, Lilley, is 10 years older than I am and waited a long time for me to join the family. She and my sister, Julia, were my only real girlfriends growing up. They are to this day, my best friends.
8. The gospel of Jesus Christ.
I am grateful for Jesus Christ and his ultimate sacrifice. His gospel makes me want to be a better person and to live one day with my family in the eternities.
9. My friends
I have been so blessed through the years to have many people come in and out of my life. They have added to who I am and been there just as I needed them.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Bringing our own experiences and feelings...
We've recently had some issues with a teacher of one of our children. Eric and I haven't been able to figure out the problem. We have used the generic "It is just a personality conflict" but that has just been our way of dealing with a teacher that has, through actions, stated, "It is my way or the highway." Now, a teacher can expect that his/her students provide the work requested but I don't happen to believe that it should be done EXACTLY the same way as the teacher.
We are all separate individuals with our own set of experiences and feelings. I found the following story in my studies that summed it all up for me:
Carl Filtsch, composer Fredric Chopin's favorite pupil, was once asked by a visitor why he played one of Chopin's compositions so differently from his teacher. His reply delighted Chopin, "I can't play with someone else's feelings."
So, I feel pretty confident in stating: Excellent teachers teach, give the assignments and then allow the students to add their own personality and feelings to it.
Isn't it wonderful that we aren't all the same and do everything the same way?
Now, to make sure I am the kind of teacher who allows my student to play with their own feelings!
We are all separate individuals with our own set of experiences and feelings. I found the following story in my studies that summed it all up for me:
Carl Filtsch, composer Fredric Chopin's favorite pupil, was once asked by a visitor why he played one of Chopin's compositions so differently from his teacher. His reply delighted Chopin, "I can't play with someone else's feelings."
So, I feel pretty confident in stating: Excellent teachers teach, give the assignments and then allow the students to add their own personality and feelings to it.
Isn't it wonderful that we aren't all the same and do everything the same way?
Now, to make sure I am the kind of teacher who allows my student to play with their own feelings!
Friday, November 6, 2009
My unexpected joy!
Twelve years ago, when I was pregnant with our third child, I was POSITIVE I was having another boy. I had difficulty getting pregnant (on fertility treatments all three times), with my small stature had difficulty carrying the babies, had gestastional diabetes each time and with VERY large babies had difficulty deliverying the babies so we knew this would be my last pregnancy that my fabulous doc would allow. It was a bitter, sweet time. I had pretty much figured we would be a family of boys. So, imagine my surprise that at my first ultrasound, the tech told me it was a girl. That is why at each ultrasound after (I had a high risk pregnancy), I would ask "Are you sure it is a girl?" I was positive that I would get all this really cute girl stuff (not girly since I am a tomboy) and then Surprise! You have a boy! Instead, at 37 weeks, I delivered a beautiful, dark-skinned, black-haired girl! She has been my unexpected joy every day since--and today we had a Mother-daughter day. We took Charlie to school a little after nine, picked up some much needed soy milk at Walmart and then, headed to Gardener Village. A very busy fall with all three kids playing lacrosse, we didn't get to the village to see the witches displays so I promised Syd we would go and then have lunch together. We have a great time together since she is so much like me! That can be good and bad---I am very high maintenance and so is she, but she is also very loving, caring and tender-hearted (me, not so much). She is an absolutely delightful young woman!
I am grateful for all three of my kids and it is days like today that I am so glad that Heavenly Father saw fit to allow me to have them in my life. Eric and I had figured we would probably need to adopt children so I am ever so blessed that Heavenly Father not only allowed me to be their natural mother but also that he sent me such great kids!
We are so lucky!
Monday, October 26, 2009
The very best job...ever!
Eric and I have the very best job in the church...ever! This is how we spend our Sundays:
After spending an hour and 10 minutes watching our teenagers use their iTouch (s) to play games and pass notes during sacrament meeting, we get to go play...
for twenty minutes with 3-8 year olds: playing hot and cold, bowling, jumping up and down and spinning as we sing "Do as I'm doing", and matching games.
for twenty minutes with 9-11 year olds: listening to their smart^*& comments, play battleship and hot/cold, and trade witty barbs.
for 10 minutes with 18 months to 3 year olds: playing musical instruments, ring around the rosy, finger puppets, singing "Wheels on the Bus", "Popcorn Popping" and "If you're happy".
The very best parts of it, however, are...
*Their hugs and squeals when they see us
*Their joy and excitement when they see the new game to play or song to learn
*They way they want to share everything that happened to them since we saw them last
*The tears and "goose bumps" I get when they sing so beautifully
*The spirit I feel when they share their little testimonies through song
*The way they wave and giggle when they spot us on the bench in Sacrament meeting
*When they plop their cute little bums on my lap or hold my face to share a secret
*Seeing their faces when they, too, feel the spirit
*The way they feel comfortable making witty comments (or being smart*&^) to me and knowing I won't get mad or offended
*The love I feel for them---they are the best and brightest!
So, you see, we have the best job...ever. Who wouldn't want to be the in Primary?!
After spending an hour and 10 minutes watching our teenagers use their iTouch (s) to play games and pass notes during sacrament meeting, we get to go play...
for twenty minutes with 3-8 year olds: playing hot and cold, bowling, jumping up and down and spinning as we sing "Do as I'm doing", and matching games.
for twenty minutes with 9-11 year olds: listening to their smart^*& comments, play battleship and hot/cold, and trade witty barbs.
for 10 minutes with 18 months to 3 year olds: playing musical instruments, ring around the rosy, finger puppets, singing "Wheels on the Bus", "Popcorn Popping" and "If you're happy".
The very best parts of it, however, are...
*Their hugs and squeals when they see us
*Their joy and excitement when they see the new game to play or song to learn
*They way they want to share everything that happened to them since we saw them last
*The tears and "goose bumps" I get when they sing so beautifully
*The spirit I feel when they share their little testimonies through song
*The way they wave and giggle when they spot us on the bench in Sacrament meeting
*When they plop their cute little bums on my lap or hold my face to share a secret
*Seeing their faces when they, too, feel the spirit
*The way they feel comfortable making witty comments (or being smart*&^) to me and knowing I won't get mad or offended
*The love I feel for them---they are the best and brightest!
So, you see, we have the best job...ever. Who wouldn't want to be the in Primary?!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
The difference between Lucifer's plan and Jesus' plan...
Oliver Wendell Holmes said, "Think things, not words."
In words, many see a need for "social justice" to override "the dictates of the market."
In reality, what is called "the market" consists of human beings making their own choices at their own cost. (Jesus' plan)
What is called "social justice" is government imposition of the notions of third parties, who pay no price for being wrong. (Lucifer's plan)
So, I admit this is just my interpretation of this recent thought found in the Washington Times. But if we believe that we live in the land that our Heavenly Father prepared so that his gospel could be restored and that our founding fathers were influenced in the way our country/government was set up, then my thoughts are, "the market" allows us to make choices and live with the consequences (Jesus' plan) and "social justice" is Lucifer's plan to force us to live the way that is deemed by someone to be the best for all.
In words, many see a need for "social justice" to override "the dictates of the market."
In reality, what is called "the market" consists of human beings making their own choices at their own cost. (Jesus' plan)
What is called "social justice" is government imposition of the notions of third parties, who pay no price for being wrong. (Lucifer's plan)
So, I admit this is just my interpretation of this recent thought found in the Washington Times. But if we believe that we live in the land that our Heavenly Father prepared so that his gospel could be restored and that our founding fathers were influenced in the way our country/government was set up, then my thoughts are, "the market" allows us to make choices and live with the consequences (Jesus' plan) and "social justice" is Lucifer's plan to force us to live the way that is deemed by someone to be the best for all.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Goodbye our sweet little Ollie!
This weekend we went to Park City to get away from all the stress and pressures we have been under over the last couple of years. We did come back to Salt Lake so the boys could sing in the General Priesthood session with the Young Mens choir. Syd and I spent the time shopping at Gateway and seeing a movie. We had a great day and night! Then we received a phone call from my mother-in-law, Bev, to let us know that our sweet little 10-year-old poodle had gotten into our neighbors backyard and been killed by their daughter's visiting pitbull. We came back home to bury our friend!
Ollie was a spunky six pound poodle that thought he was bigger. We should have named him Napolean instead. He was Eric's birthday present the year Syd turned a year. Ollie was our friend, cuddle dog and a member of our family for so long. Cole gave him the ultimate act of love by standing out in the dark cold night and dug a hole so we could have a burial.
So, Ollie, we love you and we will miss you. Goodbye, friend!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Where has the time gone?
Nineteen years ago today, I married my best friend!
It seems like it was just yesterday but when you consider all that has happened, we know it wasn't really. We have had three children, eight cars, eight homes, nine surgeries (most were mine), thirteen combined years of college, two bachelors' degrees, one masters' degree (in 3 mos), two cats, four dogs, two birds, numerous fish, and thirteen jobs. We have moved around the state, out of state and back in state, helped our kids to learn to read, ride bikes, play instruments, play hockey, soccer, and lacrosse. We have served as Elder's quorum president, Primary president, Young Women's president, High Priest group counselor, Young Men's President, Ward Mission leader, numerous counselor positions, Sunday school teachers, Primary teachers, Ward organist, Primary chorister and Primary pianist. We have served on a hockey board, a lacrosse board, JDRF board, and volunteered all those years in between. The list goes on and on.
Even through it all, the ups and downs, the highs and the lows, I have had my best friend by my side and he has made life all that much better.
I love you, babe!
It seems like it was just yesterday but when you consider all that has happened, we know it wasn't really. We have had three children, eight cars, eight homes, nine surgeries (most were mine), thirteen combined years of college, two bachelors' degrees, one masters' degree (in 3 mos), two cats, four dogs, two birds, numerous fish, and thirteen jobs. We have moved around the state, out of state and back in state, helped our kids to learn to read, ride bikes, play instruments, play hockey, soccer, and lacrosse. We have served as Elder's quorum president, Primary president, Young Women's president, High Priest group counselor, Young Men's President, Ward Mission leader, numerous counselor positions, Sunday school teachers, Primary teachers, Ward organist, Primary chorister and Primary pianist. We have served on a hockey board, a lacrosse board, JDRF board, and volunteered all those years in between. The list goes on and on.
Even through it all, the ups and downs, the highs and the lows, I have had my best friend by my side and he has made life all that much better.
I love you, babe!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Different ways to show you care...or why Eric cooks!
We had a family outing yesterday that turned into an "Ah, Ha!" moment for me. We saw an amazing movie that I would highly recommend to anyone who loves to cook or Julia Childs. We saw "Julie and Julia" and as I said, it as truly amazing! I have always loved Julia Childs and would love to be even half the cook she was. Learning about her life and cooking disasters gave me a small sliver of hope. I will never be as good a cook as my husband, but I can sure try (at least, once I am done with school).
But, I am getting away from my "Ah, Ha" moment. Julia Childs loved food and she loved her husband. She found a way to share both of her loves. Eric is an incredible cook--he is very humble about it but even his "disasters" (as he descr'ibes them) are delicious and truly appreciated by those who love him. Which is where my "Ah, Ha" moment came! Eric loves to cook because he loves us! He has a wonderful talent and we are so fortunate to have him WANT to share it with us. Many people who have sampled his delights, have commented that he should go into catering and he always responds that he would no longer enjoy it if he did. Again, he loves to cook because he loves us! Aren't we so lucky?!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
I love being a Mom...and this is the reason why!
Can you see what I mean? They are pretty incredible kids!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Now that I am older...
As many of you know, I am a perpetual worrier. My family teases me endlessly for my worries. I was labeled the "Queen of What if" from the time I was old enough to start asking..."What if _____ happens, then what would we do?" My parents even bought me a book to help me with these perplexing questions: The worst-case scenario survival handbook. I read it from cover to cover so I will be prepared if I am ever attacked by an alligator or someone is shooting at me from a moving car. Seriously! It was a great relief to have a guide to all these questions--and those who know me well know these are the kinds of questions I DID ask!
So, I have discovered (and yes, it has taken me 40+ years to get there) that it doesn't matter if you worry and lose sleep, when whatever it is happens--it happens. Am I better prepared? Maybe. However, I have learned that even in my deepest worries, there is always one scenario that I DIDN'T think of and that is usually the one that happens so I have to "roll with the punches" anyway.
The Department of Health is going through a reorganization right now. The only people it will directly affect is my little 12 person bureau--will we keep our jobs, will we move with the new division, stay with the old division, get a new boss, etc. Surprisingly, I am not worrying. Nope, not even a little bit--have I matured? Does worrying quit when you get older or do you just realize that things work out someway, somehow and for the best?
I used to spent my time anticipating the next step and worrying about what the future would bring. But now I wish I could slow down the world--I am loving this moment right now. I love my high school senior, and my eighth grader and my sixth grader. I love being with them, talking with them and every moment with them. All the stresses of work, school and life, melt away when I am with them.
So, why worry about the future--"my finest moment is the one I am standing in"!
So, I have discovered (and yes, it has taken me 40+ years to get there) that it doesn't matter if you worry and lose sleep, when whatever it is happens--it happens. Am I better prepared? Maybe. However, I have learned that even in my deepest worries, there is always one scenario that I DIDN'T think of and that is usually the one that happens so I have to "roll with the punches" anyway.
The Department of Health is going through a reorganization right now. The only people it will directly affect is my little 12 person bureau--will we keep our jobs, will we move with the new division, stay with the old division, get a new boss, etc. Surprisingly, I am not worrying. Nope, not even a little bit--have I matured? Does worrying quit when you get older or do you just realize that things work out someway, somehow and for the best?
I used to spent my time anticipating the next step and worrying about what the future would bring. But now I wish I could slow down the world--I am loving this moment right now. I love my high school senior, and my eighth grader and my sixth grader. I love being with them, talking with them and every moment with them. All the stresses of work, school and life, melt away when I am with them.
So, why worry about the future--"my finest moment is the one I am standing in"!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
So, I am just a proud Mom!
Second to none: Teenage Utah cadets win national championship
By Natalie Dicou
The Salt Lake Tribune
Updated: 07/23/2009 11:39:20 AM MDT
Third place just wasn't going to cut it this year.
So, instead of waiting for the new year to begin prepping for the Civil Air Patrol National Cadet Competition, Cheston New-hall had his group begin training and stop drinking sodas 10 months before the event.
It paid off earlier this month when a group of Utah teens took first place at the national competition in McMinnville, Ore., bringing the title home to the Beehive State for the first time since 1956.
"It didn't really sink in until we got the trophy," said Pleasant Grove High's Richard Luby. "It was half as big as me."
Taking home top honors was a huge payoff for the 14 teens -- nine boys and five girls -- who spent the past 10 months training for the seven-event competition: one-mile run, uniform inspection, standard drill (responding to orders), innovative drill (performing a choreographed routine), written test, panel quiz, and volleyball.
Utah won four of the seven contests and dominated the volleyball tournament.
"I was part of a family that made something amazing happen, and getting an award for it made it even better," said Team Chief Cheston Newhall, a recent Park City High School graduate who served as commander of last year's group that finished third overall in Dayton, Ohio. "I was in disbelief. I bawled my eyes out, tears of joy."
Being a drill team member -- and no, there's no kick lines or sequin-covered outfits -- requires
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a massive commitment from teens, most of whom hope to attend military academies or become pilots.
The youths are cadet members of the Civil Air Patrol, an official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force.
During preparation, the cadets met every weekend at the CAP's hangar at Salt Lake International Airport for training sessions.
They studied for the panel quiz and written test, learned about leadership, aerospace and current events. After training Friday nights, they set up their sleeping bags, and prepared for the next day's workload.
They practiced marching, exercised for the one-mile run and transformed themselves into a finely tuned volleyball-spiking machine.
Last year, when Utah took third overall, Newhall decided his team could do better.
Instead of beginning preparation for the July national championship in January, as they had done before, they started five months earlier, in August.
Newhall -- the drill team is led solely by cadets with logistical help from an adult mentor -- believed his squad had to become more dedicated if Utah was going to win the national title.
The group thrived under New- hall's charismatic leadership.
"Everyone knew [we] were serious about it," Newhall said. "You saw people sacrificing for the team. ... Everybody put drill team first."
Pleasant Grove's Luby -- who plans to become an Air Force pilot -- never considered the long sessions "work."
"Not looking forward to a day was not possible for me," Luby said. "Every practice day was another day with a group of friends. Even when we were working, it still seemed like we were playing."
While most teams are composed almost exclusively of boys, 36 percent of Utah's team is female.
That's "pretty unheard of," said Capt. Eric Weeks, a Civil Air Patrol volunteer and the group's adult mentor.
Other teams thought they could exploit Utah's girls on the volleyball court, hitting the ball at the most petite player, Murray High's Arielle Weeks, Eric Weeks' daughter.
"It's funny," Weeks said. "They would go after her."
The strategy fell short. Utah crushed every challenger by at least seven points.
Focused on their goal, the cadets also dropped weekend hangouts with their friends, sports and other activities. They abstained from soda during the 10 months before the competition -- although Luby admits he accidentally had a root beer float while on vacation: his sole slip-up.
After completing the mile run at the championship, the group treated themselves to ice-cold Mountain Dews and cokes.
"It hurts the first time," said Brighton High junior Grant Taylor, who is also a high school tennis star. "You're not used to the carbonation. But it was really refreshing."
Weeks said, "For them it was like having a beer, I guess."
For the mentor and proud father -- who was part of Utah's 1990 drill team, which took third place -- hearing the Utahns announced as winners was "probably one of the greatest moments of [his] life."
"It was pandemonium," said Weeks, although the scene wasn't overly crazy, because the honor can be revoked if a team doesn't display sportsmanship.
"It's happened before," Weeks said.
But Utah kept its excitement in check and left Oregon with the 3-foot trophy.
mailto:href=
Utah's winning team
National champion cadets:
Sean Carlisi » Northridge High, Layton
Cassie Carlisi » Northridge High, Layton
Cheston Newhall » Park City High School
Cole Christensen » Bingham High, West Jordan
Brayden Mickelson » Mountain Crest High, Nibley
Zach Hopkins » Mountain Crest High, Nibley
J.P. Goldberg » Skyline High, Salt Lake City
Grant Taylor » Brighton High, Salt Lake City
Stefani Lewis » Mountain Crest High, Logan
Jared Healey » Lone Peak High, Alpine
Arielle Weeks » Murray High School
Richard Luby » Pleasant Grove High School
Rachel Niedfeldt » Walden School of Liberal Arts, Highland
McKelle Tobey » Mountain Crest High, Providence
By Natalie Dicou
The Salt Lake Tribune
Updated: 07/23/2009 11:39:20 AM MDT
Third place just wasn't going to cut it this year.
So, instead of waiting for the new year to begin prepping for the Civil Air Patrol National Cadet Competition, Cheston New-hall had his group begin training and stop drinking sodas 10 months before the event.
It paid off earlier this month when a group of Utah teens took first place at the national competition in McMinnville, Ore., bringing the title home to the Beehive State for the first time since 1956.
"It didn't really sink in until we got the trophy," said Pleasant Grove High's Richard Luby. "It was half as big as me."
Taking home top honors was a huge payoff for the 14 teens -- nine boys and five girls -- who spent the past 10 months training for the seven-event competition: one-mile run, uniform inspection, standard drill (responding to orders), innovative drill (performing a choreographed routine), written test, panel quiz, and volleyball.
Utah won four of the seven contests and dominated the volleyball tournament.
"I was part of a family that made something amazing happen, and getting an award for it made it even better," said Team Chief Cheston Newhall, a recent Park City High School graduate who served as commander of last year's group that finished third overall in Dayton, Ohio. "I was in disbelief. I bawled my eyes out, tears of joy."
Being a drill team member -- and no, there's no kick lines or sequin-covered outfits -- requires
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a massive commitment from teens, most of whom hope to attend military academies or become pilots.
The youths are cadet members of the Civil Air Patrol, an official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force.
During preparation, the cadets met every weekend at the CAP's hangar at Salt Lake International Airport for training sessions.
They studied for the panel quiz and written test, learned about leadership, aerospace and current events. After training Friday nights, they set up their sleeping bags, and prepared for the next day's workload.
They practiced marching, exercised for the one-mile run and transformed themselves into a finely tuned volleyball-spiking machine.
Last year, when Utah took third overall, Newhall decided his team could do better.
Instead of beginning preparation for the July national championship in January, as they had done before, they started five months earlier, in August.
Newhall -- the drill team is led solely by cadets with logistical help from an adult mentor -- believed his squad had to become more dedicated if Utah was going to win the national title.
The group thrived under New- hall's charismatic leadership.
"Everyone knew [we] were serious about it," Newhall said. "You saw people sacrificing for the team. ... Everybody put drill team first."
Pleasant Grove's Luby -- who plans to become an Air Force pilot -- never considered the long sessions "work."
"Not looking forward to a day was not possible for me," Luby said. "Every practice day was another day with a group of friends. Even when we were working, it still seemed like we were playing."
While most teams are composed almost exclusively of boys, 36 percent of Utah's team is female.
That's "pretty unheard of," said Capt. Eric Weeks, a Civil Air Patrol volunteer and the group's adult mentor.
Other teams thought they could exploit Utah's girls on the volleyball court, hitting the ball at the most petite player, Murray High's Arielle Weeks, Eric Weeks' daughter.
"It's funny," Weeks said. "They would go after her."
The strategy fell short. Utah crushed every challenger by at least seven points.
Focused on their goal, the cadets also dropped weekend hangouts with their friends, sports and other activities. They abstained from soda during the 10 months before the competition -- although Luby admits he accidentally had a root beer float while on vacation: his sole slip-up.
After completing the mile run at the championship, the group treated themselves to ice-cold Mountain Dews and cokes.
"It hurts the first time," said Brighton High junior Grant Taylor, who is also a high school tennis star. "You're not used to the carbonation. But it was really refreshing."
Weeks said, "For them it was like having a beer, I guess."
For the mentor and proud father -- who was part of Utah's 1990 drill team, which took third place -- hearing the Utahns announced as winners was "probably one of the greatest moments of [his] life."
"It was pandemonium," said Weeks, although the scene wasn't overly crazy, because the honor can be revoked if a team doesn't display sportsmanship.
"It's happened before," Weeks said.
But Utah kept its excitement in check and left Oregon with the 3-foot trophy.
mailto:href=
Utah's winning team
National champion cadets:
Sean Carlisi » Northridge High, Layton
Cassie Carlisi » Northridge High, Layton
Cheston Newhall » Park City High School
Cole Christensen » Bingham High, West Jordan
Brayden Mickelson » Mountain Crest High, Nibley
Zach Hopkins » Mountain Crest High, Nibley
J.P. Goldberg » Skyline High, Salt Lake City
Grant Taylor » Brighton High, Salt Lake City
Stefani Lewis » Mountain Crest High, Logan
Jared Healey » Lone Peak High, Alpine
Arielle Weeks » Murray High School
Richard Luby » Pleasant Grove High School
Rachel Niedfeldt » Walden School of Liberal Arts, Highland
McKelle Tobey » Mountain Crest High, Providence
Monday, July 20, 2009
July activities
Small island at Jordanelle
Charlie in his "thinker" pose
Cole is ready for GQ
Syd in her "model" pose
T playing cards
Cole had to beat his Dragon Ball Z game
Eric and Syd playing cards
Our Annual End of Year party with the traditional burning of school work
Syd and her best friends, Megan and Ashley
Cole and his team at the National Cadet Competition
The team at the beach house prior to the start of competition
The 2009 National Cadet Competition Champions!
4th of July fireworks
It was nice to have my kids light the fireworks and just sit back and enjoy the show!
Charlie in his "thinker" pose
Cole is ready for GQ
Syd in her "model" pose
T playing cards
Cole had to beat his Dragon Ball Z game
Eric and Syd playing cards
Our Annual End of Year party with the traditional burning of school work
Syd and her best friends, Megan and Ashley
Cole and his team at the National Cadet Competition
The team at the beach house prior to the start of competition
The 2009 National Cadet Competition Champions!
4th of July fireworks
It was nice to have my kids light the fireworks and just sit back and enjoy the show!
Monday, July 13, 2009
National Champions!
When I talked to Cole on Saturday, their team had taken 1st place in volleyball (thanks to Cole's awesome serving), 1st place in the mile run, pretty sure they had 1st place in the written exam and they felt really good about the panel quiz, inspection and drills. Then, later, he texted me that their team and one other were asked to perform for a 4-Star Ggeneral, the Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force. So with much anxiety, I waited all Sunday for him to attend the closing banquet so he could text me the results. The wait was worth it.
Congratulations to the CAP Utah Wing Titan drill team! They are the new National champions!
Just a little background: the last time the Utah Wing had a winning team was in the 1950s!
I am so proud of my incredible son and the amazing kids of the Titan team!
Congratulations to the CAP Utah Wing Titan drill team! They are the new National champions!
Just a little background: the last time the Utah Wing had a winning team was in the 1950s!
I am so proud of my incredible son and the amazing kids of the Titan team!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Rocky Mountain Region Champions
Cole has been involved with the Utah Wing of Civil Air Patrol for 4 years now. He is currently a Cadet Captain and has held several leadership positions. He has also participated on several championship drill teams. This has allowed him to travel to Washington D.C., Dayton, Ohio and this week Oregon to compete at the National Cadet Competition. His teams have yet to bring home a first place but I think this year, this team has the greatest chance to do just that. As parents, we have never had the opportunity to see him compete but we were given the opportunity last Friday, July 3, when his team performed their Standard and Innovative drills at the Logan City Independence Day celebration. These are incredible kids and their dedication is evident in their drills. You, too, can see it at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IeP2wNQe0k.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Political quote for our times!
You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich. You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong. You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift. You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the wage payer down. You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred. You cannot build character and courage by taking away people's initiative and independence. You cannot help people permanently by doing for them, what they could and should do for themselves. .....Abraham LincolnTuesday, June 23, 2009
The Amazing Men in my life!
So, now that I have passed my final exam for this term of school, I can reflect on Father's Day.
On Father's Day, I was, of course, thinking about my amazing Dad. He is not just my Dad but also my Hero, my Mentor, my Inspiration and my Friend. I know that if I am having an incredibly challenging day, week, month or year, he is one of the people I want to talk to and hear his advice. Dad will say something along the lines of, Here is what I think not that you have to do it that way. Usually, I end up doing exactly what he would! I often have people say to me that they don't know how I do all that I do--he is the reason why I know I can. My parents raised me to never think I couldn't accomplish anything I set my mind to do. They didn't just say it, they showed me by example. My Dad had a dream to fly from the time he was a young boy. He set his sights on it and did all he could to obtain it. After "washing out" of Air Force pilot training because of an illness, he didn't give up his dream---instead he became a navigator. A very trusted and well-liked navigator that pilots wanted in their cockpit. While flying for the Air Force, which many know, keeps you from home and family, he served in various church callings including years in Bishoprics, and was a very active Dad in his children's lives. I remember many times when I had a bad dream, was sick or couldn't sleep, that it was my Dad, with his classical music, soothing me. He might have been gone for weeks at at time but when he was home, he was home. My Dad adores my Mom and would do anything in the world for her. While she held the family together during his long absences, she knew when he was home, he was going to be there and be an active participant in our family life. Not many fathers were like that in the 1950's through the 1980's. It was through watching their relationship that I knew I wanted someone just like my Dad for my eternal companion. And I know I found one!
Eric is an amazing father! I love to watch his relationship with our kids. It is obvious that he adores his children and they in turn, love him. Many times, he will sacrifice sleep, career advancements and sometimes, to my concern, his health, to be with the kids. He loves to tease, joke and play around with the kids but they also know he will sit and have a serious discussion on any topic with them. I remember for years, my brothers, sisters and I would gather on my parents' bed late at night, sometimes together and sometimes just me, for talks. I love that our children have continued that tradition without evening knowing it. Eric learned how to be the incredible father he is from his Dad.
My father-in-law is also a very good father. He loves his children and was also a very active partipant in their lives. He may have been more comfortable sitting at a football game but he was there for Eric's piano recitals, jazz and orchestra concerts. An athlete, he could have forced Eric to play sports, but knew that Eric's interests and talents lie elsewhere, and supported him in his pursuits. My father-in-law is always thinking of others. From the very first of mine and Eric's courtship to 19 years later, he is always looking out for me. He makes sure there is something for his semi-vegetarian daughter-in-law to eat when he is cooking for the rest of the family. Now that we are in the same household, he often reminds me not to overdo it with my back.
This Father's Day, I found myself, thinking of some of the other fathers in my life. I watch my brothers in their role as fathers. None of us have perfect children and for some of us, our children have chosen different lives, but I watch the love my brothers have for their children and they remind me of my father. Dad may not agree with some of the choices we, his children, have made, he will lovingly reprimand us, but we know that even if we make a choice he doesn't agree with, he loves us. I hope my brothers' kids know they are fortunate to have them as their fathers. I was also looking at my neighbors and friends. We have some incredible fathers in our neighborhood. It is obvious to me that the children in my little piece of earth are well-loved.
So to all the amazing men in my life--Happy Father's Day not just one day but every day!
On Father's Day, I was, of course, thinking about my amazing Dad. He is not just my Dad but also my Hero, my Mentor, my Inspiration and my Friend. I know that if I am having an incredibly challenging day, week, month or year, he is one of the people I want to talk to and hear his advice. Dad will say something along the lines of, Here is what I think not that you have to do it that way. Usually, I end up doing exactly what he would! I often have people say to me that they don't know how I do all that I do--he is the reason why I know I can. My parents raised me to never think I couldn't accomplish anything I set my mind to do. They didn't just say it, they showed me by example. My Dad had a dream to fly from the time he was a young boy. He set his sights on it and did all he could to obtain it. After "washing out" of Air Force pilot training because of an illness, he didn't give up his dream---instead he became a navigator. A very trusted and well-liked navigator that pilots wanted in their cockpit. While flying for the Air Force, which many know, keeps you from home and family, he served in various church callings including years in Bishoprics, and was a very active Dad in his children's lives. I remember many times when I had a bad dream, was sick or couldn't sleep, that it was my Dad, with his classical music, soothing me. He might have been gone for weeks at at time but when he was home, he was home. My Dad adores my Mom and would do anything in the world for her. While she held the family together during his long absences, she knew when he was home, he was going to be there and be an active participant in our family life. Not many fathers were like that in the 1950's through the 1980's. It was through watching their relationship that I knew I wanted someone just like my Dad for my eternal companion. And I know I found one!
Eric is an amazing father! I love to watch his relationship with our kids. It is obvious that he adores his children and they in turn, love him. Many times, he will sacrifice sleep, career advancements and sometimes, to my concern, his health, to be with the kids. He loves to tease, joke and play around with the kids but they also know he will sit and have a serious discussion on any topic with them. I remember for years, my brothers, sisters and I would gather on my parents' bed late at night, sometimes together and sometimes just me, for talks. I love that our children have continued that tradition without evening knowing it. Eric learned how to be the incredible father he is from his Dad.
My father-in-law is also a very good father. He loves his children and was also a very active partipant in their lives. He may have been more comfortable sitting at a football game but he was there for Eric's piano recitals, jazz and orchestra concerts. An athlete, he could have forced Eric to play sports, but knew that Eric's interests and talents lie elsewhere, and supported him in his pursuits. My father-in-law is always thinking of others. From the very first of mine and Eric's courtship to 19 years later, he is always looking out for me. He makes sure there is something for his semi-vegetarian daughter-in-law to eat when he is cooking for the rest of the family. Now that we are in the same household, he often reminds me not to overdo it with my back.
This Father's Day, I found myself, thinking of some of the other fathers in my life. I watch my brothers in their role as fathers. None of us have perfect children and for some of us, our children have chosen different lives, but I watch the love my brothers have for their children and they remind me of my father. Dad may not agree with some of the choices we, his children, have made, he will lovingly reprimand us, but we know that even if we make a choice he doesn't agree with, he loves us. I hope my brothers' kids know they are fortunate to have them as their fathers. I was also looking at my neighbors and friends. We have some incredible fathers in our neighborhood. It is obvious to me that the children in my little piece of earth are well-loved.
So to all the amazing men in my life--Happy Father's Day not just one day but every day!
Friday, June 5, 2009
Our other Bingham Laxer...
Charlie's lax season just ended yesterday evening. His team is young and new but they had a good season with a 2-6 standing. Charlie played lax back when he was just a chumash but took it up again last Fall and has come into his own. He finally loves the sport for himself not for his brother, which is a HUGE step for us.
With more practice and assistance with running, Charlie will find he enjoys the game even more. His size is a real plus for him (in this his older brother is envious) but more than anything--he likes to play and we love to watch him enjoy it!
Monday, June 1, 2009
A view of the future
Saturday morning at 5 am I had a view of my future. I put Cole on a plane bound for Annapolis and the Naval Academy. As I watched him walk away from me, I realized that the day I had been dreading had finally arrived. From the time he was a small boy, Cole has wanted to serve our country in the military and I have encouraged it, having been a military brat. It always seemed so far off but my little boy has become a man, fully capable of taking care of himself and serving his country. This next year will be bitter sweet as he completes his final year of school and makes decisions regarding his future. I am so grateful for the time I have been given to be a large part of his life and I recognize I will now take my place on the sideline as I watch him go boldly into his future.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Do people really know what it means to Support our troops?
Everywhere you look anymore, there are the magnetic ribbons that say, "Support our troops." Every time I see them, I think to myself, "D0 they really know what it means?" Do they know its more than just buying a $1 magnetic and sticking it to your car? I know for many it is the fear of another Vietnam, when our soldiers came home to be shunned, spit upon and in some cases, harrassed and intimidated. It's almost like people think they can put the magnet on their car and it excuses them from any other "support".
Cole had an eye opening experience a few years ago at Walmart when he was in his uniform. Little kids looked at him in awe, older people smiled, thanked him or told him their stories, but we had a couple of women who did something that surprised Cole but didn't me. As they were walking towards us, they separated so they were on either side of Cole, pushing me off to the side. They, then, pushed against Cole from either side , jostling him around before walking on. Cole looked at me in surprise and asked, "Did they just do what I think they did?" Yep, sure enough, he was just hassled without a word being said.
Not everyone is fortunate enough to be an American soldier, or married to one, or a child of one or the parent of one. Not everyone has to agree. But common decency and respect is one of the best ways to support our troops, those now serving, those who have served and those who have died for us. So the next time you see a soldier in uniform, or a vet, hold the door for them, listen to their stories or give them a simple Thank you. So, the magnetic ribbons are nice but so impersonal---make your support personal!
To my Dad, Mom, Uncle, Brothers, Nephews-in-law and my incredible son: Thank you for your sacrifices!
Happy Memorial Day!
Cole had an eye opening experience a few years ago at Walmart when he was in his uniform. Little kids looked at him in awe, older people smiled, thanked him or told him their stories, but we had a couple of women who did something that surprised Cole but didn't me. As they were walking towards us, they separated so they were on either side of Cole, pushing me off to the side. They, then, pushed against Cole from either side , jostling him around before walking on. Cole looked at me in surprise and asked, "Did they just do what I think they did?" Yep, sure enough, he was just hassled without a word being said.
Not everyone is fortunate enough to be an American soldier, or married to one, or a child of one or the parent of one. Not everyone has to agree. But common decency and respect is one of the best ways to support our troops, those now serving, those who have served and those who have died for us. So the next time you see a soldier in uniform, or a vet, hold the door for them, listen to their stories or give them a simple Thank you. So, the magnetic ribbons are nice but so impersonal---make your support personal!
To my Dad, Mom, Uncle, Brothers, Nephews-in-law and my incredible son: Thank you for your sacrifices!
Happy Memorial Day!
Monday, May 18, 2009
My Syd!
Today is Syd's 11th birthday. It's hard for me to believe that my baby is eleven but even harder for me to look at her and see a young woman who looks 13 not 11. She is growing so fast! Syd is a beautiful, young woman not just on the outside but on the inside where it really counts.Syd is so caring for not just her family but everyone around her. People love her because she is a delight to be around. I can count on her to do the right thing in any situation.
She is her Daddy's girl. Syd loves to curl up with her Dad and watch a movie. They are quite the pair when shopping for clothes! Both have an excellent sense of style, although her Dad's tends to be more preppy and Syd's a little more funky but they seem to be able to compromise. Syd also has a close relationship with me. It doesn't matter what we do together, we have a ball!
Syd is a great student--she loves to learn new things. I am so glad all of my children have developed this same sense of curiosity. She is also my tomboy. She loves sports of all kinds--not content to just watch but to be right in the action. She is a star player on her girls lacrosse team. You can also find her out playing soccer, kickball, and football with all the guys.
Syd is a beautiful person and I am so fortunate to be her mother. Happy Birthday, babe!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Grand gestures and the little things
With lacrosse season in full swing, Eric's last term before his practicum, my first term for my master's, busy contract season and the kids school winding down, we have been so exhausted that we literally fall into bed at night. Needless to say, romance has taken a the very back seat on this bus! Before we had children and all through our courtship, Eric has done the grand gestures as well as the little things. Whether it was a surprise visit at work for lunch or a wild flower bouquet, Eric has always been one to show his affection. After a particularly difficult time in our early marriage (he had been working two full-time jobs while going to school so we wouldn't lose our insurance), he made arrangements with my store manager (I was a manager at ZCMI) to whisk me away early from work. We had a nice dinner at the newly remodeled Inn at Temple Square and he suggested we ask if we could see one of the new rooms. I was so against asking, I mean, how tacky, but he went ahead and asked anyway. I reluctantly went up the elevator with him and was mortified when we unlocked the room and there was suitcases in the room. It took Eric's prompting before I realized they were OUR suitcases. He drew me into the room and laying on the bed was a new silk dress, pumps and silk stockings (I am allergic to nylon). He told me to hurry and change since we had tickets to the symphony. We had a wonderful weekend and I will never forget how much planning and preparation he did in secret so he could surprise me.
Grand gestures such as that are no longer possible and haven't been for almost 18 years (once the kids came) but Eric still does the little things for me. He irons my clothes (I hate to), cleans the bathroom, dusts, cooks (so much better than I), cleans (also better than I), dresses and shops for me (I hate to shop for clothing) and supports me in all that I do (or attempt to do). Today, after putting in a 50 hour week, he left clinic in Provo with the intent to take me to lunch. Now, we try to have lunch together or with my parents on our Fridays but I hadn't expected it today since he had to work in Provo. We picked up sandwiches and headed to the park. Sitting on blanket, we had nice lunch and some one on one time. It may not seem like it is as grand a gesture as the weekend I described but to me it was. Eric always seems to know when I am feeling a little neglected in romance (I am a closet romantic) and comes up the with grand gestures or the little things to let me know how much I still mean to him.
I love this man!
Grand gestures such as that are no longer possible and haven't been for almost 18 years (once the kids came) but Eric still does the little things for me. He irons my clothes (I hate to), cleans the bathroom, dusts, cooks (so much better than I), cleans (also better than I), dresses and shops for me (I hate to shop for clothing) and supports me in all that I do (or attempt to do). Today, after putting in a 50 hour week, he left clinic in Provo with the intent to take me to lunch. Now, we try to have lunch together or with my parents on our Fridays but I hadn't expected it today since he had to work in Provo. We picked up sandwiches and headed to the park. Sitting on blanket, we had nice lunch and some one on one time. It may not seem like it is as grand a gesture as the weekend I described but to me it was. Eric always seems to know when I am feeling a little neglected in romance (I am a closet romantic) and comes up the with grand gestures or the little things to let me know how much I still mean to him.
I love this man!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Mother of the year!
So, once again, this Mom earns the award of Mother of the Year! I know, I know, it is a regular occurrence for me. Cole played his toughest lacrosse teams last week (Jordan and Riverton) with pneumonia! Yep, I didn't catch that. By Friday, I decided he really wasn't sounding so good so I took him to the Doc and then to top it off, I promised him I wouldn't tell his coach so he could play against his former team, West Jordan, Friday night. Sound familiar? Yep, Charlie had pneumonia only 3 weeks ago and I missed it that time, too. Needless to say, I am keeping a very close watch on Syd and if she so much as coughs, it is to the Doc right away. Good thing my kids are so forgiving (at least they don't equate me with perfection).
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
My shining star!
This was posted on the Westside lax website today:
UT BOYS: Emotional Bingham Upsets No. 22 Jordan, 10-9
Bingham head coach Brian Morris said his team went out Monday night with the intention of honoring former Miners player and Weber freshman/sophomore team coach Blake Strebel, who died last week in a traffic accident.
Strebel would have been proud of what his former team accomplished.
Junior attackman Cole Christensen scored a team-high three goals, including what stood up to be the game-winner, to lead Bingham to a 10-9 upset victory over No. 22 Jordan in a Utah High School Lacrosse League Division A game.
Senior attackman Cameron Edmunds and senior middie Jake Arthur each added a pair of goals, as Bingham (8-6) posted its first-ever win over a Top 25 team.
Senior middie Brett Everill had a goal and an assist, and junior attackman Peter Tschaggeny and junior middie Chase Newton each scored once.
Defensively, freshman goalie Aaron Hansen saved 10 shots.
The game was tied, 7-7, at the end of the third quarter, but Bingham scored three unanswered goals in less than five minutes to take a 10-7 lead. Christensen capped the run when he fired home a shot with 7:38 to play.
Jordan closed within 10-9 on a goal by senior attackman Matt Brunner with 4:19 remaining, but Bingham held on to score its biggest win of the season.
“The team wanted to play this game in Blake’s honor, and they put in a fantastic effort all four quarters,” Morris said. “We had everybody hustling, everybody talking. It was a total team effort. It was the best game we played all year.”
In defeat, Brunner and senior attackman Chase Gerber each finished with a co-game-high four points on three goals and an assist for Jordan (10-1), which had its season-opening, 10-game winning streak snapped just one game after scoring its biggest win of the season against Bountiful.“It was not the same team that played Friday,”
Jordan head coach John Barraco said. “I think maybe were a little overconfident. Bingham showed up ready to play, and we didn’t.”
UT BOYS: Emotional Bingham Upsets No. 22 Jordan, 10-9
Bingham head coach Brian Morris said his team went out Monday night with the intention of honoring former Miners player and Weber freshman/sophomore team coach Blake Strebel, who died last week in a traffic accident.
Strebel would have been proud of what his former team accomplished.
Junior attackman Cole Christensen scored a team-high three goals, including what stood up to be the game-winner, to lead Bingham to a 10-9 upset victory over No. 22 Jordan in a Utah High School Lacrosse League Division A game.
Senior attackman Cameron Edmunds and senior middie Jake Arthur each added a pair of goals, as Bingham (8-6) posted its first-ever win over a Top 25 team.
Senior middie Brett Everill had a goal and an assist, and junior attackman Peter Tschaggeny and junior middie Chase Newton each scored once.
Defensively, freshman goalie Aaron Hansen saved 10 shots.
The game was tied, 7-7, at the end of the third quarter, but Bingham scored three unanswered goals in less than five minutes to take a 10-7 lead. Christensen capped the run when he fired home a shot with 7:38 to play.
Jordan closed within 10-9 on a goal by senior attackman Matt Brunner with 4:19 remaining, but Bingham held on to score its biggest win of the season.
“The team wanted to play this game in Blake’s honor, and they put in a fantastic effort all four quarters,” Morris said. “We had everybody hustling, everybody talking. It was a total team effort. It was the best game we played all year.”
In defeat, Brunner and senior attackman Chase Gerber each finished with a co-game-high four points on three goals and an assist for Jordan (10-1), which had its season-opening, 10-game winning streak snapped just one game after scoring its biggest win of the season against Bountiful.“It was not the same team that played Friday,”
Jordan head coach John Barraco said. “I think maybe were a little overconfident. Bingham showed up ready to play, and we didn’t.”
Monday, April 27, 2009
Another reminder that Life here on earth is too short!
Once again I am reminded that a split second decision can change your life forever. Last Wednesday evening, a fellow Bingham lacrosse player and his roommate lost their lives when another young man made a wrong choice. Blake (19) and Derek (18) were heading home from work when a 17 year-old gang member chose to run from police and broadsided them, killing them instantly. Derek was expecting his mission call any day and Blake was getting his paper work ready to turn in. Cole's Bingham lacrosse team is devastated by the loss of a former team mate. Blake was a nice person who make sure everyone felt welcomed on the team.
I often hear parents complain about their teenagers and their attitudes. I love my teenagers with all their belligerent moods, complaints, stubborness and selfishness. Does it frustrate me? Yes. I realize, however, that this is a step towards adulthood and self-discovery. I would take a million more days of their attitudes because the days of sharing in their witty, smart-alecky, and loving natures far outweigh the others. I treasure every day with them because life with them is too short and passes far too quickly.
I often hear parents complain about their teenagers and their attitudes. I love my teenagers with all their belligerent moods, complaints, stubborness and selfishness. Does it frustrate me? Yes. I realize, however, that this is a step towards adulthood and self-discovery. I would take a million more days of their attitudes because the days of sharing in their witty, smart-alecky, and loving natures far outweigh the others. I treasure every day with them because life with them is too short and passes far too quickly.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Things you may not know about me!
In our monthly staff meeting we have a team-building exercise. This month's was unique and fun. We had to take the amount of toliet paper that we would normally use in the bathroom. We were then to count the amount of squares we use. I thought we were going to have a "green" lesson since that seems to be the way everything is going these days, however, it wasn't quite that way. Instead, we were to tell how many squares worth of things our co-workers may not know about us. It was not an easy thing to do and I'm not someone who likes to share intimate details with everyone. But, I thought I would share some unique things about me that you may not know. So here goes:
1. I am named for my Dad since he didn't want to have to give a son his name. (It is Therice)
2. I can't drive a stick shift but I can fly an airplane.
3. I met my husband only after my Bishop refused to sign mission papers for me.
4. My one goal growing up was to be taller than my sister. (I didn't make it)
5. I love men in uniforms (any kind).
6. I was forever traumatized by my first grade teacher when she kept marking my papers wrong for the spelling of my names (Theresa Kaarina Tibbitts).
7. I was a BYU student when I met my husband.
8. Contrary to what my teens think, I was very athletic. I played soccer, field hockey, tennis and volleyball and danced.
9. I love country music much to my husband and sons chagrin.
10. I tried unsuccessfully to play the flute, piano and guitar. I can't carry a tune to save my life but I teach music in church every Sunday.
11. I threw up for the first time in my life on the night my husband asked me to marry him. (I have lots of stories about our courtship and engagement--good thing he loves me or he would never have stuck around)
12. I tend to have an iron stomach (see above).
13. I was a manager at ZCMI for the Sporting goods department and then the Infant, children, pre-teen and maternity departments for several years.
14. I am an accountant who hates math.
15. I love my Dr. Pepper but it has to be diet now.
16. I successful carried three VERY large babies in my 4' 11" body.
17. I am very stubborn and will dig my heels in if something is important enough to me (this can be good and bad).
18. I am a fierce mama bear when it comes to my kids so don't cross me.
19. I am very comfortable with who I am and I don't really care what people think of me. It's their problem not mine (doesn't make for great dates--several other stories to share).
20. Although I like predictability, I can change directions and deal with conflict without blinking.
If any of you can think of things about me that I may not know, feel free to share!
1. I am named for my Dad since he didn't want to have to give a son his name. (It is Therice)
2. I can't drive a stick shift but I can fly an airplane.
3. I met my husband only after my Bishop refused to sign mission papers for me.
4. My one goal growing up was to be taller than my sister. (I didn't make it)
5. I love men in uniforms (any kind).
6. I was forever traumatized by my first grade teacher when she kept marking my papers wrong for the spelling of my names (Theresa Kaarina Tibbitts).
7. I was a BYU student when I met my husband.
8. Contrary to what my teens think, I was very athletic. I played soccer, field hockey, tennis and volleyball and danced.
9. I love country music much to my husband and sons chagrin.
10. I tried unsuccessfully to play the flute, piano and guitar. I can't carry a tune to save my life but I teach music in church every Sunday.
11. I threw up for the first time in my life on the night my husband asked me to marry him. (I have lots of stories about our courtship and engagement--good thing he loves me or he would never have stuck around)
12. I tend to have an iron stomach (see above).
13. I was a manager at ZCMI for the Sporting goods department and then the Infant, children, pre-teen and maternity departments for several years.
14. I am an accountant who hates math.
15. I love my Dr. Pepper but it has to be diet now.
16. I successful carried three VERY large babies in my 4' 11" body.
17. I am very stubborn and will dig my heels in if something is important enough to me (this can be good and bad).
18. I am a fierce mama bear when it comes to my kids so don't cross me.
19. I am very comfortable with who I am and I don't really care what people think of me. It's their problem not mine (doesn't make for great dates--several other stories to share).
20. Although I like predictability, I can change directions and deal with conflict without blinking.
If any of you can think of things about me that I may not know, feel free to share!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Happy Easter!
Me with the kids after church
My guys!
Me and my girl!We had a very nice but different Easter this year. Some of our Easter traditions went by the wayside this year. No decorating Easter eggs, new Easter clothes or the Easter egg hunt this year. The kids have reached a point in their lives where these things are no longer important. While a part of me missed doing the things with my kids that I love, another part was glad I didn't have to put too much effort into it this year. Eric pointed out that in the next 7 years or so, I will have grandkids who will want to do those things with Grandma T so I should enjoy my short break.
One of the nice results from my kids maturity was the greater focus on our Savior and the true importance of Easter. As Syd and I sat in Sacrament meeting and read in Luke about Christ's anguish, betrayal and sacrifice, I was grateful for my kids age as we can have deep discussions about the important things.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Cole, right at home!
Here are some more photos of the one place where Cole feels most comfortable---on the lacrosse field!
Nothing stopping him from coming through!
Shoot, score!
Shoot, score!
Another goal!
Nothing stopping him from coming through!
Shoot, score!
Shoot, score!
Another goal!Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Goodbye, Puta shoes!
I saw the podiatrist yesterday for a follow-up on my foot following my graceful fall down the stairs eight weeks ago. Good news: I have no major problems from the fall--my foot looks beautiful! Bad news: The pain I am experiencing that makes it difficult to put too much weight on my food is from my spinal stenosis. So, basically, nothing that can be done about it. The doc's suggestion to minimize the pain from the nerve damage: wear supportive shoes and continue to take my anti-inflammation drugs. So, I am having major depression over my loss of my very high heels (my puta shoes as Eric calls them). This might seem petty to some of you but those who know me well, know this is a major issue for me! I love shoes and specifically I love my heels. Call it the "Napolean complex" but they are very important to me!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
He is an amazing kid!
Let me tell you about this amazing kid! Charlie is a regular thirteen year old, attending school, playing lacrosse, reading and playing with his dogs. However, Charlie is also a unique kid. He has daily battles with Type 1 diabetes. He has had to deal with the numerous finger pricks, shots, ketones and the ups and downs for over 10 years. But he is more than just a kid with a chronic disease. He is curious and loves to learn. I love that he will share with us.Charlie is so helpful! He is willing to do whatever is asked and if he doesn't know how to do something, he will learn how to do it. Charlie learned to cook! I love that not only does he cook but does it well (unlike his Mom)!
I am so blessed to have Charlie in my life. He is so considerate of me. He makes sure to carry my briefcase up and down stairs since I can't. He thinks of others before he does himself! Tonight I had a major mess at the office to clean up and worked late. Charlie fixed spaghetti for dinner, fed his sister and friends that were hanging out at the house. I expected the kitchen to be a mess (I'm used to family members not cleaning up after themselves) but when I got home, he had left a pot for Cole but cleaned the rest up!
For someone who has so many reasons to be unhappy and angry at his lot in life, he is a happy, easy going person! Charlie is so shy and quiet but when you take the time to know him, you will see that he is an incredible, amazing young man!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Junior Prom dinner
As promised, here are the pictures from the Junior prom dinner that Eric catered for Cole and his friends. We spent 12 hours shopping, cooking, setting up and finally, cleaning up, but it was all worth it.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
I am married to an extremely generous man!
Fourteen years ago this Spring, we were planning a move to Great Falls, Montana so Eric could open up their first community clinic. Cole and I loved Montana. For the first time, I was able to be full-time mommy. We would take walks, visit the library, go to preschool and play, play, play. Living in a small town with an Air Force base was like coming home for me and I was in heaven. While I was enjoying myself, Eric was miserable. The job turned out to be micro-managed by a paranoid director of the Health Dept. Why are you thinking of this now, you ask? Well, we will be making our first trek back to Great Falls on April 2-4 for a Civil Air Patrol Regional drill competition at Malmstom AFB. The fact that Eric is even willing to set foot back in Montana is a miracle and that he was willing to drive his son so Cole wouldn't miss too much school and a lacrosse game is a real sacrifice for him.
Eric sacrifices so much not just for me and the kids but everyone around him. When we were leaving Sam's Club the other day, a woman was struggling to push her cart and deal with a toddler and newborn. Without saying a word, Eric took her cart and then asked her to direct him to her car. He is incredible with kids and they must know it because the toddler in the cart was immediately calm, talking with him.
Eric would rather get 3-4 hours of sleep a night doing homework late into the night and early morning so he can be to his kids games, PT conferences or just watch a movie with them. They are teenagers so I don't know that they seem so grateful to him--they take it for granted that Dad will be there for them--but I notice and it makes me love him more for it.
Four and half years ago, Eric made the decision to give up his own home and move in to help his parents take care of their house. It has been a sacrifice for Eric as he has a real specific style and level of cleanliness that isn't achieved in his parents' home. He has to be the go-between for the two families sharing space and that can put him in an uncomfortable position, but he always rises to the occasion. He will change his plans to help his parents with a project--again, I'm sure he thinks no one notices--but I do!
Eric works some weeks more than 50 hours so he can keep the Neo-natal program functioning for the State. When I say he is the one that keeps everything flowing, it isn't a wife commenting but a co-worker. He is greatly admired by all who work with him for his extra effort, his ease with children and his humor.
When we took the kids to Disneyland several years ago, Eric disappeared while we were waiting in line. When he returned he was carrying a bag from the Hat shop. He put a tiara on Syd's head and told her it was for his princess. He then put one on my head and told me it was for his queen. And that is exactly how he treats me. I am spoiled by my husband. He does so many things for me, I couldn't even begin to list them. Here are just a few: he will help me with any project at my parents house, cook, clean (even the bathroom), do laundry, dress me (yes, I have no style without him), encourage me, argue with me (we have political discussions), and tells me he will be around to push my wheelchair when I can no longer walk from my back disease.
So, you see, I am married to an extremely generous man! He is one of the last of his breed!
Eric sacrifices so much not just for me and the kids but everyone around him. When we were leaving Sam's Club the other day, a woman was struggling to push her cart and deal with a toddler and newborn. Without saying a word, Eric took her cart and then asked her to direct him to her car. He is incredible with kids and they must know it because the toddler in the cart was immediately calm, talking with him.
Eric would rather get 3-4 hours of sleep a night doing homework late into the night and early morning so he can be to his kids games, PT conferences or just watch a movie with them. They are teenagers so I don't know that they seem so grateful to him--they take it for granted that Dad will be there for them--but I notice and it makes me love him more for it.
Four and half years ago, Eric made the decision to give up his own home and move in to help his parents take care of their house. It has been a sacrifice for Eric as he has a real specific style and level of cleanliness that isn't achieved in his parents' home. He has to be the go-between for the two families sharing space and that can put him in an uncomfortable position, but he always rises to the occasion. He will change his plans to help his parents with a project--again, I'm sure he thinks no one notices--but I do!
Eric works some weeks more than 50 hours so he can keep the Neo-natal program functioning for the State. When I say he is the one that keeps everything flowing, it isn't a wife commenting but a co-worker. He is greatly admired by all who work with him for his extra effort, his ease with children and his humor.
When we took the kids to Disneyland several years ago, Eric disappeared while we were waiting in line. When he returned he was carrying a bag from the Hat shop. He put a tiara on Syd's head and told her it was for his princess. He then put one on my head and told me it was for his queen. And that is exactly how he treats me. I am spoiled by my husband. He does so many things for me, I couldn't even begin to list them. Here are just a few: he will help me with any project at my parents house, cook, clean (even the bathroom), do laundry, dress me (yes, I have no style without him), encourage me, argue with me (we have political discussions), and tells me he will be around to push my wheelchair when I can no longer walk from my back disease.
So, you see, I am married to an extremely generous man! He is one of the last of his breed!
Monday, March 23, 2009
One of my lax kids...
The lacrosse games have just begun for Cole. He has already played two season games and attended a tournament so I wanted to post a few photos.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Twenty things I LOVE
I am copying my friend, Aundrea. I think this is a good way to truly count your blessings!
1. The sun and warmth
2. My kids getting along and laughing together
3. The smell of Spring
4. Dinner ready to eat (and I didn't cook it)
5. A lazy afternoon (haven't had one in a while)
6. Watching my kids play lacrosse
7. Watching my dogs run and play
8. When my kids in Primary sing the songs so well and with excitement
9. Visiting my Mom and Dad (and the fact that I still can)
10. The sound of birds singing and a hawk flying
11. Everyone's homework done and time to spend as a family
12. Music of all kinds
13. Shoes!!
14. Funky, fun glasses.
15. When the sun goes down later
16. Spending time with my best friend (my hubby)
17. Going to a movie or dinner with my little family of five
18. Kids of all ages (they are the most incredible people)
19. Dark Chocolate!
20. My incredible family!
1. The sun and warmth
2. My kids getting along and laughing together
3. The smell of Spring
4. Dinner ready to eat (and I didn't cook it)
5. A lazy afternoon (haven't had one in a while)
6. Watching my kids play lacrosse
7. Watching my dogs run and play
8. When my kids in Primary sing the songs so well and with excitement
9. Visiting my Mom and Dad (and the fact that I still can)
10. The sound of birds singing and a hawk flying
11. Everyone's homework done and time to spend as a family
12. Music of all kinds
13. Shoes!!
14. Funky, fun glasses.
15. When the sun goes down later
16. Spending time with my best friend (my hubby)
17. Going to a movie or dinner with my little family of five
18. Kids of all ages (they are the most incredible people)
19. Dark Chocolate!
20. My incredible family!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Life's twists and turns
On late Thursday night, we sent Cole to Seattle for a lacrosse tournament. After a whirlwind Friday and Saturday, he flew home on Saturday night. It was hard to see him. He was exhausted from four back to back games, jetlagged; disappointed that his team couldn't pull off any wins; and sore from the beating his body took during the games. I realize now that I can't make everything better. When he was little, I could give him a hug and a bandaid. As he got older, I could encourage him and help him to see that tomorrow is another day. Now, as he is on the verge of adulthood, I can't hug or talk his disappointments away. He has to work through them all on his own--all I can do is love him!
Kasi (Eric's sister) and her husband brought by their new foster kids for us to meet yesterday. They are 5, 6, and 7 year old brothers and sister. They are smart, beautiful children full of curiosity and energy. Kasi has longed to be a mother for so long and the opportunity is finally here. Her husband, however, was not raised in a home with a father for a role model and he is nervous and scared. He is a wonderful man and he will learn it. I think we often take for granted the knowledge we gain just by growing up with a mother and father as examples. My parents were wonderful examples and I know I am the kind of mother I am from their love and understanding. I realize my love of children, big and small, also come for their wonderful examples of compassion. Thanks, Mom and Dad!
Kasi (Eric's sister) and her husband brought by their new foster kids for us to meet yesterday. They are 5, 6, and 7 year old brothers and sister. They are smart, beautiful children full of curiosity and energy. Kasi has longed to be a mother for so long and the opportunity is finally here. Her husband, however, was not raised in a home with a father for a role model and he is nervous and scared. He is a wonderful man and he will learn it. I think we often take for granted the knowledge we gain just by growing up with a mother and father as examples. My parents were wonderful examples and I know I am the kind of mother I am from their love and understanding. I realize my love of children, big and small, also come for their wonderful examples of compassion. Thanks, Mom and Dad!
Monday, March 9, 2009
Last week was bitter sweet for our family. While Cole received wonderful news, our neighbors and friends were losing a battle after an accident with their 19-year old son, who passed away on Friday. Cole was friends with Joe and although he was older, he welcomed Cole when we moved to the neighborhood. As we experienced this summer, one choice we make can change (in Cole's case) or end your life (Joe). I am grateful for the gospel and the knowledge that we will see our family members again. Our Primary president explained it so well yesterday. Our spirit is our light. When we die, our light doesn't go out it just moves to another place. I know the kids from the Sunbeams all the way up to the oldest child felt the spirt tesify this truth to them. Our hearts ache for the Montgomery family and we pray that they will find peace.
So, while our lives are crazy with three teenagers, I am so very thankful to be busy with my kids. Life can change in a matter of a few seconds, so cherish every moment, the good and the bad, and be glad to have another day with your kids.
So, while our lives are crazy with three teenagers, I am so very thankful to be busy with my kids. Life can change in a matter of a few seconds, so cherish every moment, the good and the bad, and be glad to have another day with your kids.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Honor...Courage...Committment!
Cole is off to the Naval Academy at the end of May! He was chosen to be one of the 2,250 high school juniors from around the nation to spend a week living as a "plebe" or a first year midshipman. We are excited as it is a great honor to be selected--Cole has worked so hard--and it puts him that much closer to an appointment to an academy. Congratulations, babe!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Spring is in the air!
When I walked out this morning to head to the office, I heard a bird. But not just any bird, but a Spring bird. There is just something about the earth waking up from a winter's sleep--there is a buzzing excitement (no, Jul, not your bees), a smell and an anticipation. Lacrosse games start next week, Syd has her first dance comp this weekend and Eric got up his new garden fence. Our Spring and Summer weeks are packed full and I can hardly wait! I love every busy minute I spend with my kids during these weeks, even if it is in the car from one activity to the next!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Life is learning to fly by the seat of your pants
I am a planner. I like to know the who, what, where, why, and how of everything in my life. You would think after 40+ years that I would have learned that nothing EVER goes as planned. As my sister, Jul, will tell you--I am a worrier. There is a perfectly good reason for that, you see, if I look at every aspect of my life and plan for every possible outcome then I will be ready for anything. Unfortunately, I usually don't think of the very outcome that happens.
So, I have decided the reason we are here on earth is to learn to fly by the seat of our pants, you know, improvise. One of the many artists that I enjoy is Phil Vassar. He has a song that describes my new philosopy:
It's a crazy life
It keeps you on your toes
You never know what lies in store for you or
where it's going to go
Hellos, Goodbyes
You laugh, you cry
You're free to pick and choose
You win or lose
You're either wrong or right
It's a crazy life
So, when I get all flustered because something didn't go as planned, I shrug and say "It's a crazy life." But, you know, I have decided I like not always knowing what is going to happen. It makes life an adventure and I'm always up for an adventure!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
College Craziness
Today we met with Cole's high school counselor to start the process for college applications, scholarships, ACT, AP, NCAA and on and on. I left his office with a major anxiety attack (worse than normal for this habitual worrier)! Why would this stress me, you ask? Isn't it Cole's job to put in all his applications? Yes, of course it is, but this Mom knows the fullness of his schedule. I know his Dad and I will have to do the majority of the typing. Not to mention, we are much faster typers! Those who know I graduated in December with my Bachelor's would be surprised to discover that I began my Master's right after so we now have two parents working full-time, two parents working on Master's degrees full-time, three kids with lacrosse, music lessons, and homework, a house and three dogs who need care. That is why I am having anxiety!
This too shall pass! I just need a day to have anxiety, worry about getting it all done and by tomorrow I will have a plan in place to accomplish it all. In the meantime, stay out of my way!
This too shall pass! I just need a day to have anxiety, worry about getting it all done and by tomorrow I will have a plan in place to accomplish it all. In the meantime, stay out of my way!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
I love my teenagers!
Life is never dull with them. They are smart, witty and a delight to be around. Here a just a few reasons why:
I loved them with they were little and they would crawl on my lap and cuddle. They don't cuddle so much anymore (besides, they are all bigger than me so it's harder) but they each take the time at night to come and "tuck" me into bed.- I loved when they were little that they wanted to share every little thing that happened in their day. I love that they still want to share every little thing.
- I loved when they started school and were learning new things every day, they couldn't wait to tell me what they had learned. I love that they still want to tell me everything they have learned (even when they think I don't know).
- I loved it when they were little and wanted to be with me all the time (and yes, sometimes I had to give myself a timeout). I love that they want to be independent but still love to be with me when they take the time for me.
- I loved that all their friends wanted to hang out at our house. I love that their friends still like to hang out. (and that we are not embarrassing).
- I loved the sweet, compassionate children that were always so concerned about others. I love that they still look out for the little guy.
- I loved the delightful, little kids that they were--so full of energy and life. I love that they haven't lost that energy or love of life!
In case you couldn't tell----I love my teenagers!
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