Christmas is tight this year

To each of our dear friends and family,

This is somewhat embarrassing to admit. Sean is not getting his annual bonus, so Christmas is tight this year. We are choosing to make the most of our situation, and will be giving homemade Christmas gifts.

I will be making bedroom slippers for you all as gifts. Please let me know your sizes. I think you would agree that this is a great idea. If you would like to do the same, I've included the slipper instructions below.



Bedroom slippers out of maxi pads:

You need four maxi pads to make a pair. Two of them get laid out flat, for the foot part. The other two wrap around the toe area to form the top. Tape or glue each side of the top pieces to the bottom of the foot part. Decorate the tops with whatever you desire, silk flowers (this is most aesthetically appealing), etc.

These slippers are: * Soft and Hygienic * Non-slip grip strips on the soles * Built in deodorant feature keeps feet smelling fresh * No more bending over to mop up spills * Disposable and biodegradable * Environmentally safe *

Three convenient sizes: (1.) Regular, (2.) Light and (3.) Get out the Sand Bags. I've attached a photo of the first pair I made so that you can see the nifty slippers for yourself.... Awaiting your res ponse. It's crucial that I get the right size for each one of you.

A good laugh is the real gift---Merry Christmas!!!!!

The icing on the Cake!

When Emily left for preschool today, I though..."Wow her outfit can't get any more hillarious! I guess I was wrong.

She leaves for preschool wearing a glow in the dark skeleton shirt, yellow flower stretch pants (I chose those), and yes Buzz Lightyear moonboots that light up! As funny as this is, I do think it is one of the things that make Emily who she is. She truly is a joy to have in our home.

Doesn't this photo of a cute little blond preschooler just scream

"Merry Christmas!"

Update

Hey guys,
It has been a while. Many of you know that I have had a rough week and and a half. Last Wednesday I blacked out and had a seizure while I was running errands. I was really confused about what happened, but luckily Jaron was with me, so we were able to piece together some info.
Both the EEG and MRI came back clean, so I am fine. The doctor thinks the problem was likely a migrane, or possible stress related. I have been cleared to drive again! Hallellujah! You never realize the little things you take for granted until you cannot do them.
I just wanted to thank everyone for their love and prayers. I really appreciate you. Sean was gone on a flight for a few days. We was very sweet and helpful to me. Gail came up and stayed with me to take care of the kids. Dianne stayed a couple days and a night with me. My mom was able to help a day and a night. Each of you eased my mind by taking such good care of my children! I cannot thank you enough!!! The kids were wonderful.
Anne and Tandy helped me with the kids so I could go to doctor appointments. Melody and Anne took up my slack on carpool. Melody also made the best meal for us one night. You guys are awesome, and I totally owe each of you a lot. Please let me know when I can return the favor.

We are doing good

I am so greatful for good friends who love and care about us. I recieved a couple e-mails last night saying "you have not posted to your blog for a long time, are you alright." Knowing of your concern means the world to me. Thank you.
We are doing well. Sean has been busy with work, I have been trying to keep the home in order, Nate is enjoying school, Jaron is making improvements at school, and is enrolled in an after school reading program, and Emily is loving her preschool--it is awesome.
Some days I could spend the whole day blogging, and I feel that there are so many momentous things each day. Lately, I have just been absorbing the moments. We have been having FHE, scripture study, and family prayers as a family. This is a relatively new thing for us. We are totally loving it, all of us. I think that by having this extra time together as a family had given me a lot to think about. Am I living up to my potential, am I showing my family how much I love them, am I truly "working" while I am home with the kids, what do I truly value in life. I am greatful for this time in life to really reflect upon mysel and my values.
So, That is what I have been doing instead of keeping my blog current. I am sure that when I have some of these questions answered, I will be back to blogging up a storm. Until then, please know how much I love you, and while I may not be checking blogs or updating, YOU are in my thoughts and prayers continually!
Love, Michelle

Halloween Day 2008

The boys were out of school on Halloween day. They helped me run errands. I took them to Inkleys so Eric could take thier photo for me. Each year he sets up a Halloween scene, and takes photos. It has become a tradition.
Before school started this year I went shopping with some neighborhood friends in Park city. We had a blast! We decided that we would buy all of our kids matching shirts for a Halloween gifts. The Hardy, Ellis, Jones, Ramsey, Mecham, and Gordon kids all had these shirts. (22 kids total)---We need to get a photo of them all together in these shirts girls!
Well, there it is. The Gordon kids traditional Halloween photo 2008.

Lessons learned at FHE

Our family has been doing a lot better at having FHE lately. We have loved it. It is so fun to see what the kids know and feel. However I wonder....did we wait to long to start. Last Monday Jaron was in charge of the lesson. Our activity was planned. We had been "Booed", so we needed to deliver goody plates to at least 2 neighbors. As I was helping Jaron decided what he wanted the lesson to be on...Faith, Babtism, Repentance, etc, his eyes lit up on "Holy Ghost."
Jaron: "Ya, Mom! That's what I want to do! The Holy Ghost for Halloween!"
I could quickly see where this was going. So I called in reinforcements.
Me: "Sean, Jaron wants to have the lesson on the holy ghost."
Seans reply: "Great."
Me: "Do you really think that that is appropriate for the week of Halloween?"
Sean: rolling his eyes at me "YES!"
Jaron: moving towards Sean with his arms outstreched and fingers wiggling "OOOhhh, I'm the holy ghost...Oohhh! "
Me: "Well, you approved it!" *smile*

That night at the end of our Holy Ghost FHE lesson. Emily informed us that when Jesus was babtised, the Holy Ghost decended in the form of a DUCK. I knew it was a bird, but I always thought it was a DOVE. Good thing we are having Family Home Evening! Sounds like we need a lot of clarification!

Happy HOWLoween Emily!

Today Emily had her preschool Halloween Party! They trick or treat to the parents, and put on a little program. They do 5 little pumpkins and dance "The monster mash". It was so cute. Tammy does such a wonderful job! I am so happy that she gets to go to Tammys preschool. She loves Mrs. Tammy and all the cute little kids. She always comes home so happy.

Emily was so funny today, because she wanted to be Batman! I just couln't send her as the only girl superhero. I figured the witch costume was a good compromise. It was unfrilly, and not a princess. Plus I was cutting 10 minutes before--no frilly apron, very little along the neck, no bows etc....

Sweet little Emily was a good sport. She tried to participate in the program for a while. But had daddy hold her because she had a sick stomach. When we got home, she got a temperature, and took a little rest. She has just started whining, so I better go hold her.

7 Facts about me

Here are the rules:

1.Link to the person who tagged you and post these rules on your post. (I don't really know how to do this, but I will try)

2.Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.

3.Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.

4.Comment to the people you've tagged and let them know they've been tagged.



Alright then, here I go......



1. I have skydived and bungee jumped! **Bungee jumping is worse, you have to worry about going down, AND going UP!**


2. I love to sing, BUT I am not too good:)

3. When I am shopping, I am the cheapest person in the world.

4. I love garlic. Pickled garlic, roasted garlic at Johnny Carinos, and Buddys salad!


5. I am a momma bear...Don't mess with my cubs!

6. I love to organize events, but my personal paperwork is a mess!

7. I have never been a runner...EVER! But in my mind I run all the time (like in marathons and stuff), and I LOVE the feeling!

Okay, so those are 7 things about me. Am I just too weird? Can we still be friends? Now I want to hear about you so I can decide if I can be friends with you! Just kidding....No really take the tag challenge!

Memories

I thought this looked like fun so I posted a few memories on a couple of my friends blogs who are doing this and decided to try it on mine.

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2.Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses.If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you. If you don't want to play on your blog then you are a party pooper...remember, every party needs one and that is why I invited you! Again...no pressure :)

Poky Pride Never Dies!

Poky Pride Never Dies. This is true. It is funny how we can still feel like we belong in High School. Whenever I am at an event when the Indianettes do their War dance, I still get chills. When I drive by Poky the words "We are loyal to you Poky High..." still come to mind. When I hear the word Highland I still get a little tense. Ya, I know that as an adult I should totally not be admitting to this. Friday night was the 2008 Blue and Black Bowl. Blue for Poky, Black for Highland. We live in the heart of Highland boundries. We moved from the heart of Poky boundries plus I am an alum. In our neighborhood we have former star Highland athletes and women who lead the Highland cheerleaders, not to mention the youth who currently attend.
Jason Ramsey coaches Poky defense and Kim, Tiffany and I all went to Poky. Our kids LOVE Poky, and we joke about how we will have to move so our kids won't go to Highland. Kim decided it would be fun to have a tailgate party before the game and paint faces, and paint hair. It was pretty funny, because the Ellis' both went to Highland, but were good sports and sat with us at the game. Their kids of course like Highland. When they were painting faces, Kymball said: Can you write "highland" across my forehead? Tiffanys daughters looked shocked and said "Ummmm, NO!"

Yes, I did let them put blue and red bows in my hair. (I totally would have let them use paint too, but I was the only adult who even did the bows---didn't TOTALLY want to stand out!) The kids all looked adorable! We had so much fun. Tiffany and I cheered like we did in high school. And all of us were good fans for the first quarter. At half time it was way past bedtime for us old fogies.
It brought back so many fun memories. It also brought back bruises on the back of my calfs! It was wonderful to see the kids have so much fun together. I loved seeing them all dressed up, filled with pride and excitement like I had. And yes, I do have a lot of crow to eat! Word of warning...trash talk is totally overrated....especially when your team does not win!

Last note: You feel really old when you are in the womens bathroom and they say "ladies first" to you....for crying out loud!!!!

Why get a Jack-o-lantern when you have a Jaron

The tooth fairy has visited the Gordon home 2 times this week! Jaron had Mrs. Welch pull his tooth on Thursday, and last night I pulled the second one! (I feel pretty cool, because I have never pulled a tooth before.)

So tonight as I was doing homework with him I looked at him and thought "Man, Jarons smile looks just like a jack-o-lantern smile!" Gotta love Jaron--he has a great personality!

A Halloween Story

Saturday, the kids and I were able to get the Halloween decorations up! Sean reminded me of a story that happened a couple Halloweens ago. Sean has a great schedule now, but a few years ago it was pretty crazy, and he was gone ALOT.

I got the bug to put out Halloween decorations. I was probably pregnant with Emily, so it was just me and the boys. When Sean landed, he got a message from me in tears. By the time he called, I was fine, but apparently earlier that evening when I was putting out the decorations, I got spooked. They scared me so bad that I hid out in the bedroom with the doors locked! I guess I didn't want those decorations to come get me! Hahaha.

I am having a great day

Man! Do I ever have some wonderful friends! I didn't realize that I was sounding so negative last night. I was concerned, and when you add tired into the mix, then I guess it gets a little bit messy.
I have been so excited for the great info that has been coming out this week about saving money. I guess I get my enjoyment of bargains from my Grandma Gibson. My uncle Kurt said "If shopping were an Olympic sport, Mom would definatly get the gold medal. Not only that, but she would get it at the bronze price!"
I can't claim to be at that level yet, but I have been known to brag about a bargain or two! hahahaha (Those of you who spend time with me know that I am constantly bragging about getting things 90% off!)
I am thrilled, because Sean has been gone this whole week, and will be home tonight! Yeah! Happy Friday!! :)

Being a mom is not for the faint of heart!

The reason is that your heart is so full multiple times a day! Sometimes you are so full of happiness, that you feel it will burst! Then on the flip side, it breaks constantly. Not only does your heart ache for yourself, but most painful is seeing those you love in pain. Even if your child is crying because their ice cream melted too fast, it brings on a flood of emotion and concern.
Then there is the disappointment that comes from their mistakes. Then of course the huge guilt that comes for YOUR mistakes!
Perhaps the biggest pain comes in pushing them thru their struggles. You know that they HAVE to do something incredibly difficult for them in order to overcome it.
Then of course there are other times when we have absolutly NO CLUE what to do, and you just have to ride it out.
I am currently riding the motherhood coaster! I have no clue of what to do, yet remain hopeful. I think I will retreat to being a child. Tonight I plan on turning my concerns over to Heavenly Father, knowing that he loves me and my entire family. I don't know if he is going to plow ahead thru my troubles for me, or if he will be the ever loving Heavenly Father standing behind me PUSHING me in the right direction.
I guess it is true, we may be a parent, but we will always be a child!
I am so greatful to be surrounded by the best people in the whole world. Have a great day! :)

My crazy husband

For those of you who may not know me well, I want to preface this a little. Sean and I have been married for 11 years. I am happy to say that I am truly married to my best friend. As such, one of our favorite things to do together (get your mind out of the gutter, the is a G rated blog!) is to laugh together. Aside from our children, our greatest source of humor comes from eachother.

Sean has been a pilot for over 15 years. He grew up in the bay area, and for our first Christmas together we flew to California to visit family. One of the sites he took me to was the Golden Gate Bridge. I thought it was odd that everyone kept teasing him. They were pushing at him, and our nieces were looking over the edge, and Sean would get really mad at them. His oldest brother Curt is a real tease. Apparently Sean is totally AFRAID OF HEIGHTS! My man-of-steel pilot husband is afraid of heights!

Who would have imaginged that a pilot would be afraid of heights! Well, yesterday I got this photo of him standing on a suspension bridge. Apparently this is the WORLDS highest suspension bridge! (Don't ask me where it is, I can't even keep track of where he goes anymore!) lol

Reasons to be prepared!

Okay, so you all know that I have been totally freaking out about food storage lately. The following is an e-mail my friend Cami Ellis forwarded to me. It was friend of a friend who is living in Texas dealing with hurricane Ike.

Dear Friends:
Just to let you know that we are doing well. We have a 6'x6'hole in our roof, no electricity or running water, Trees downeverywhere. However, because we listened to the counsel of our Prophet we are prepared. In fact it seems to me that it's only the members ofthe church who seem to be calm, prepared, and helping one another withtrees in roofs, flooding, etc.
There is a POD or Point of Distribution in Tomball where we live. Thereyou get water and ice IF you have enough fuel to wait in the 3 hourlines. We don't have to do that because we have 3 full water barrels, 75juice bottles filled with water, and our pool which is dirty but we useit to flush.
It is very difficult to get gas. Police guard the stations when fuel isdelivered and you might wait half a day to get up to the pump just tohave them say, "Too bad, we are out".
I am grateful that we have a generator. We run it 4 hours a day to keepour fridge and light. I am grateful that we have had fuel for it. Youcan't even buy gas containers as they are rationed. We can only buy breadonce a week and are limited to 2 loaves at a time. Water is rationed by thecase at the grocery store. 3 cases per family.
The ATM machines do not have power. For the past 6 months I have stashed small bills away because I have had such a feeling of foreboding. Wehave cash because of that. LISTEN TO THE SPIRIT. Get cash in small billsbecause the stores can't make change and credit and debit cards oftendon't work. I had to pay 5 dollars more for an item because theycouldn't make change for me. PHONES ONLY WORK OCCASIONALLY.

Believe it or not...I have not had a bath in 4 days, Today was the firstday I got to wash my hair with pool water. I haven't fixed my hair in aweek!!! It just doesn't matter anymore. We can not do laundry becausewe don't have water. So, we wear our clothes until they are literallydisgusting. When we do finally get water we will have to boil it since itis contaminated. I am grateful for my parents. When we got low on generator fuel theydrove 45 minutes to help us. They filled up their cans and brought us 10gallons of fuel which kept us going until this morning at 6:00 am whenwe finally found some gas.

A prepared Family and a loving extended family is the key to survival andmaking it through right now. I know that my parents would drive to theend of the earth to help me and it's nice knowing they are there. I knowthat I would do the same for my children. I want all of you to know that I have such a testimony of following thecounsel of our living prophet. There really is safety and peace in yourheart if you are prepared. Please get your generators, 5 gas cans fullof gas, canned goods, baby items, baby wipes to bathe, and all thewater you can store...even if you have to trip on it in your home. Haveyour lanterns, crank flashlights, tarps, rope, etc.. ready to go becauseyou never know when it will be your turn to endure the test. It'soverwhelming, but it's going to be ok eventually. I have a home, I havefood, I have water, because I listened to the counsel of the prophet. Please make sure you do the same. It's time to have your life in order. Tomorrow may be too late.

I know that if we are prepared, we have nothing to fear. I am so greatful to be a member of the church and have a living prophet of God. We have been warned to be prepared (not freak out like me) and I know that we will be blessed from our obedience. I loved the tip about water and money in small bills. Thanks for all the motivation and gentle reminders !

So this is honest labor!!!

The above photos are of 15 months of an entire school collecting them!

Keep in mind that I volunteered for this! Last year I had a wonderful idea to really pitch in and help the new school make money. As I searched for things to do, everything I could find already had somebody doing it. Then the idea came: Cream of Weber milk tops! I get that kind of milk anyway!
You always hear about schools getting like $700 for box tops, so I was really excited--we go thru 3-5 gallons a week, so I thought "The Gordons could do that alone!" Ya right! There was already quite a few milk tops when I began the project 15 months ago. I have been collecting them, and storing them at home for 15 months. Sean had threatened to throw them out several times. I knew that he was serious this last time, so I finally counted them up.
For a grand total of 771 milk tops. After I get my paperwork completed, in a couple months our school should get a check of a grand total of........wait for it...........yes..........$38.00! That is an average of 8.4 cents a day!
Okay, so seriously I am totally happy to do it, and every bit of money is helpful and appreciated, and yes we are doing it for the kids, but it reminds me:
On a shopping trip, Tupperware party, Christmas, buying school stuff, etc., you could totally blow a ton of money without even blinking an eye. If you are trying to save money, by scrimping on groceries, gas, entertainment, hand me downs, etc, IT TAKES FOREVER just to get $30!!!!!
So the next time we are slothful and buy whatever we want, or struggle to save for something special, I hope to remember the MILK TOP story for MYSELF and my family, and really make my choices count!
(Now my subtle tribute to Paul Harvey): So now you know THE REST OF MY STORY...GOODDAY!

Raspberries!!!

We are so excited and in disbelief! Jaron was outside playing and said "Mom, come look. We have raspberries!" I knew that we had acouple of buds, so I said "Ya, are they white?" "No, they are purple or red. I had to go look for myself. We actually got raspberries this year! We were able to eat 6 raspberries today! Hopefully we should get about 2 more in a couple days, and if the weather holds out for another few weeks, another handful. SO AWESOME!!!! We have really been blessed this year. I have loved having a garden! BUT, does anyone need yellow squash?!?!!!

Potatoes!

Jarons class has been learning about potatoes in school. As part of their studies, they went to the potatoe expo in Blackfoot. Today we went to a farmers field to glean potatoes. They will be donating them to the foodbank.
When I was about 12 I did this with a youth group. I remember the potatoes being few and far between. With this memory in mind, I decided to pick up all the potatoes (even the ones the size of my thumb.) I did manage to fill a bag (probably a hundred potatoes). I kept noticing that I was giving the kids bags constantly. The crazy thing was that they were getting full!...with BIG ones, too. Before long, bags were breaking, and I was running to help kids. Then I noticed these rows full of large potatoes. The kids were sitting by the row just loading them into the bags!
Once again memories from my youth come back to me wandering away from the group finding huge potatoe after potatoe. Then getting in trouble because I was digging where they had not been harvested yet. To myself I am thinking "Oh no, they are going to get in trouble." I then notice that it is not just the kids doing it, but all the adults as well!
I kept making comments like "Oh, looks like they missed a few, or You call this GLEANING? or do you really think it is okay to get THESE ones." **Okay, so I admit I am a paranoid dork!** But they all just laughed at me! As we were driving to the spud cellar, the thought occured to me.."I bet he left those out so it would be a little easier for the kids, afterall, they are going to the foodbank!"
After we took the kids back to school, Sean and I went back and got some for ourselves. And by then of course, they had all been harvested! I was right (eventually), that farmer was just being a really nice guy to us! So needless to say, I worked very hard for those potatoes...the first time out of stupidity, the second time because I really WAS gleaning! I am sore and tired, but so very greatful for the wonderful experience with Jaron and Sean, and for the blessing of those potatoes!

I was just looking at the couch

Last weekend we had friends over to hang out and play games. Emily was getting pretty grumpy, so we put on a Strawberry Shortcake show. After a while, Jaron came in (tired from running and playing outside.) He sat by Emily on the couch and started enjoying the show with Emily. About 5 minutes later, Jarons friend comes in. He looks at Jaron. Looks at the TV. Looks at Jaron again, and says "Are you watching Strawberry Shortcake!?!!!"
Jaron jumps up (super fast!) and said "No way! I was just looking at the couch!" We all bust a gut laughing. He still swears that he was looking at the couch! YA RIGHT, JARON!!! We still love you--Of course those are some of the things we love most about Jaron!
I am repeatedly amazed at how diffrent each child is. They each have their own strenghts and weakness, things you really love about them. I am so greatful for Sean, and for each of our beautiful kids. My greatest desire is to show them how special they are, and let each of them know how much I love them!

Sean Fishing with his bros

Sean just e-mailed me this photo of his fishing trip. He and his brothers went fishing on the Snake River this weekend. I am so excited for him. 11 years of marriage, and he has never done anything like this. (Too busy with work and kids!) They left on Friday morning at about 7am, and I am expecting him home tonight around midnight.

Apparently the fishing has been great, and the cookies I made were a hit! (Always good to know your cooking is appreciated!)

I have been blogging, and the kids have been playing gamecube and watching movies. For the grand finale, I think we will have a pizza for dinner. Kind of embarrasing to admit, but oh well, that's me!!

I feel so greatful for such a wonderful husband. I am so glad he got to do this. He is always so supportive of me. With that being said, I really do look forward to having him home tonight. :)

Up and running!

Okay, my new websites are up and running! Please check them out.
This is the shopping one: http://ihavebeengivenmuch.blogspot.com/
This is the excess exchange one: http://becaiseihavebeengivenmuch.blogspot.com/ Yes, I know I mispelled it!

So, I will need everyones tips to make them a success! Thanks for being such good friends, and so supportive of my crazy ideas!

What a slacker!

Man, I have been wanting to update my blog for a couple weeks.  Time has really gotten away from me.  On the positive note, I have been really involved with the kids, and keeping up the home, so that is a good thing.  We are all doing good.  The kids had parent teacher confrences today.  We are so lucky to have such great kids, and wonderful teachers who care about them.  Even Emily has such a wonderful time at preschool.  I feel so blessed.  I have been enjoying cooking and organizing our home.  I have also been plotting how to stock up my food storage.  I missed Smiths case food sale, but am anxiously awaiting Ridleys in about 2 weeks.  I am going to start 2 new blogs.  One will highlight all the sales and bargains I find.  The second will be like a sight where you can exchange stuff with eachother  ie.  "I have an extra shower curtain and 4- 4T dresses, and baby blankets, if you know anyone who needs them (free)"   or " am looking for a night stand for my kids room (free or really cheap)."  I think I could open it so people could just post on it themselves, or send me an e mail I could just cut and paste from.  Basically it would just be offering it to people before loading it to the DI.  Do you think these would be a good idea?

HAIIIYAHH!

After church today as we we changing out of our church clothes, Jaron walks into our closet and flexes his muscles at Sean. Then he said "Dad, can I see your muscles?" Sean obliged. Then while Sean was ironing his shirt, he and Jaron started talking about the resurrection. Sean told him that our bodies would be made perfect, that missing limbs would be replaced, and that we would not have disease or sickness.
Here is the conversation:

Jaron asked: Will we be strong?
Sean said: Yes.
Jaron: Is Jesus strong?
Sean: Oh, yes.
Jaron: Does Jesus know kung fu?
Sean: What?
Jaron: Does Jesus know kung fu?
Sean: Jaron, do you think that Jesus needs to know kung fu?
Jaron: Yes, because if bad guys tried to beat him up he could (imagine the jump, sound, and hand jestures etc.) "HAIIIYAHH!"

Yep! Thats my boy!

I want to try "it!"

Last night we had a fantastic enrichment night. It was on ways to use your food storage. It really showed me that you should be learning how to use it, incase you ever have to, and also that it can save you quite a bit of money just on your regular groceries. I think about how many time I have to borrow an egg, or a little sugar, or oil or something, and I think that would be so nice to have some less expensive, less space required, easy to store items so I would never run out.
I also think it will take some time to adjust to the new ways, and also help the old body to get use to the new food. We sampled whole wheat pancakes, taquitos, spanish rice, pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, crepes, chili, and angel food cake! It was wonderful, but I was running to the bathroom all night, I am just not use to that much wheat!
I think you could easily do wheat flour, eggs, and milk (in cooking--Sean warned me to not even try to give it to him to drink!) Due to the lunch preparation tips (ie. bagging snacks, making and freezing sandwiches ahead of time etc) I can already tell that I am saving money, and a lot of headache and time! Another thing they demonstrated for us was to make our own mixes ie. cookies, pancakes, instant oatmeal. I am totally going to try this!
First step: organize food storage to see what I have.
Second step: Assemble some recipes to try.
Third step: Hang on to your hats, it may be a crazy ride.
I will keep you posted along the way, and will share any great tips I find. If you have some good tips for me, let me know!

PS--Anne was feeling ill last night, and asked if I would make the angel food cake for her. She brought me everything, and it was really easy. During the presentation Cami said "We had other people bring some stuff, and they are going to tell us about it." So I was sweating it, and sure enough I needed to comment on it! I only did it, because it could be great blog material! Anne, you owe me BIG time!

You better be my friend, or I will beat you up

So today was Emily's first official day of preschool. She is loving it! I drive Emily and Caleb to preschool, and Anne picks up. As I was taking them to school this morning, it was so fun to hear their conversation.

Out of the clear blue Emily says "**** is the meanest girl in the whole world!" I said "Oh, that is not true, she is a nice girl. If you hear people say mean thing you need to say 'that is not true, she is my friend, don't talk that way about her' You guys need to be good friends with everyone! I expect you to be nice today, okay?"

Emily: "But what if they are mean to me and hit me?"

mom: Then you tell them "stop that, I don't like that!"

Emily: "Then I will say, 'You better be my friend, or I will beat you up!"

Somehow, I think I have missed something important as I have taught her!LOL

Inquiring minds want to know: Yes, she did wear her bows today, and yes she pulled them out the moment she walked in the door!

When the moms are away, the dads will play!!

Today was the stake "sisters in white" temple day. After much encouragement, I drove up there with Anne and Jen Rhodehouse. We had fun visiting, and went to Johny Carinos for lunch afterwards. The temple was beautiful. It is so wonderful to be there. It has been too long, and I have missed it.

While we were there, Sean and Jason took the kids to explore the lava tubes. You can see the fun they had on the video. I feel so lucky to be Seans wife. He is so good to me.

The mom-terague

Last night I went to the Blackfoot Fair with some of the girls. We had a bug in our bonnets and decided to make this video. This one is of me and Kim Hardy. (Anne, Cami and Claudette did "I will survive."

We had lots of good food (scone nuggets with a big scoop of honey butter), walked thru the buildings, made the video and caught the hypnotist show. (The girl sitting in front of us was pretending to be hypnotized until she realized he wasn't going to put her on stage.)

Every girl needs to let down her hair and be a part of the momterague!!

Emily is off to Preschool!!

Preschool starts on Monday, but today they had an open house. Doesn't she look adorable!!

Okay, I need you all in on this one: 1- Girls MUST have their hair either curled or in barretts for school, and 2- (perhaps the most important) In order to go to preschool, big girls MUST sleep in thier own bed!! If we can accomplish that we will be one happy family!

Emily's BIG Day!

Since today was Emily's birthday and Sean was at work, and the Nate and Jaron were at school, Emily and I decided to have a girls day. We went and had pedicures together and she got her hair fixed. She chose blue polish for herself and bright pink for me!

Caleb gave Emily a handful of lizards, and a tiarra and earings for her birthday. She loved them both and even wore the tiarra all thru dinner.

Anne and Caleb, and Tandy, Marlee, and Mason joined us for lunch at Bamboo Gardens. We were there for an hour and a half with 4--3 and 4 year olds. Surprisingly, it all worked out great!

Tonight we are going to McDonalds for dinner and playing on the toys. She wants brownies with frosting and sprinkles as her birthday cake!

What a fun day!!

Anne--This is for you!!

Happy Birthdays!!!!!

Yes, I did say birthdays (plural). September 2nd is a very important date in the Gibson family. My great Grandma James (Grandma Gibsons mom), Grandpa Howard, my cousin Sarah (Kurts daughter), and Emily all share this special day!!!
Emily was born 7 weeks early. I had been in the hospital for about 4 days with dangerously high blood pressure, and contractions.
I remember being pregnant with her and she was so sweet. I would tap on my belly, and she would kick back. She would almost mimick the beats I made. I could tell that she would be up for a lot of fun! :)
Doctors knew there was a good chance that she would come early, so they were able to give her 3 steriod shots to strengthen her lungs before she was born. I had multiple ultrasounds to make sure she was okay, and I remember thinking: "Wow, that precious little baby is inside me, and I can already see how beautiful she is."
When she was born she was rushed into the NICU. I remember wanting to hold her and be with her so bad. I had the sweetest nurse who took such wonderful care of me. Sean of course was exhausted. The nurse insisted he go home, rest a little and shower. The whole time he was gone she stayed with me by my bedside reading a book, and counseling with me. About 4 hours after delivery, they wheeled me into the NICU where I was able to see her on a little table under a warmer. She had several machines hooked up to her, but I was assured that everything was going great for her. I went back to my room for a few hours, and then was moved to my new room. Sean had been able to visit Emily by this time, and brought me some photos of her. It was quite an ordeal, and Sean was so awesome and strong the whole time.
When you see your little baby so little (She was 4 pounds, 6 ounces) lying there hooked up to machines, you would think you would have great fear to hold her, but it was amazing. All I thought is "This is my precious little baby, I am so greatful she is here and healthy."
I stayed in the hospital another 3 days, and I hated leaving her. My sweet nurse Julie said "don't worry, she is in the safest, most expensive place she could possibly be." I did take comfort in that--until the $50,000 bill came a couple months later!
She was on a 3 hour feeding schedule: 3,6,9,12 etc. I made sure that someone (me, Sean, mom, Royce, or Grandma) would always be there. I remember driving up there in tears at 2:45 in the morning because I was missing her so much.
They called her the NICU cheerleader. She was so healthy that she only needed to get big enough to hold her temperature on her own, and to be able to swallow. The nurse told me to get some sleep because she could come home in a couple days, and about 5 hours later called and said: "Bring the carseat, you can bring her home."
We have been blessed with all of our babies. We have never had to deal with jealousness from siblings. (I think it is true--you won't be tested above that which you can handle. I think Heavenly Father knows I am not as patient as I need to be!) Nate and Jaron just loved her, and we felt such joy and happiness having her in our home.

Emily turns 1!

Emily turns 2!

Emily with her birthday buddies: Great-Grandpa Gibson, and Sarah

Any of you who know me well know how much I love my Grandpa. I grew up in their home and he accompanied me to several daddy daughter dates, and let me work alongside him often. He was a second father to me. I am so proud to say he is my grandpa. I love him and am so glad that families are forever!! Sarah is really sweet, and it has been fun to watch her grow up!

This is a photo of Grandma James. I was blessed to spend a lot of time with her while she lived with Grandma and Grandpa Gibson. She was so sweet and funny. She loved root beer, peanut shaped cookies, and that bracelet she is wearing. She also always wore that necklace, and I have the honor or having that necklace today.

That bracelet is mine by the way. Whenever I would leave it down, she would use her cane to scoot it over to her, so she could get it. Sometimes she would hide it under her sleeve. I would complain to Grandma: "She took my stuff!", and so grandma would go in and say: "Mom, did you take the kids stuff?" No, she would say. "Mom, now don't be naughty!" and she would generally get it back for me. (Even if it was at night after she went to sleep.) I am so great ful and lucky to have spent as much time with her as I did.

Grandma James and Kendra

I truly feel blessed this evening!

Emily's "new" dress

This is a dress that was given to Emily by her Aunt Kristy. It belonged to Emily's cousin Danielle. Brenda also bought one for Melissa. They had a photo taken of Melissa and Danielle wearing the same dress together. I could not find that photo, but in this photo of Melissa and Michelle, Michelle is wearing it. I think it is so cute how the Gordons all kind of look alike.

Love Bird tag!

Okay, so this is my journal right. I plan on printing mine out as my journal. That is why I like the tag things. I think the everyday glimpes are so important. Then there are some stories that just need to be shared. This is a cute tag I found on Lacey Briscoes blog. I find it fun and insightful, so if you have time to do it, it would be fun, but ultimatly no pressure!

1. Where did you and your husband meet?

Sean and I were both going to the Institute 10th ward. We were both dating other people at the time. I made up these card that said liscence to kiss. I held my phone number up like a prison number for the photo. I thought Sean was really cute, so I gave him one of my cards before sacrament meeting and told him to call me. And yes, his girlfriend was sitting next to him at the time! :) Ya, she didn't like me too well after that! 2. The first thing you said to each other?

Probably "call me", but I do remeber talking with him outside of the bishops office. I told him that I was going to be an Engineer or realtor, and that I was going to marry a accountant or engineer. He told me that he had his pilots liscence. I informed him that there were 3 types of people I would never marry: 1- a police, 2- a fireman, and 3- a pilot! I don't like worrying. We can see how well this worked out for us.

3. When was our first date?
There was a girl ask guy Carribean dance at the Institute. My friends and I decided to dress like pirates. By this time I had to find him (he had moved out of the ward, and I didn't have any phone numbers.) *Good thing I am rescorceful!*

4. First kiss?
This is kind of funny, because I gave him the run around. I was a real brat, and I am so glad Sean was patient. I think the first time he wanted to kiss me, he had anonamous flowers sent to me thruout the day, and at the end of the day he presented them to me in person. I didn't get kissed, because I acted like I was really embarrased. (I just have to shake my head in dissapointment with myself.)

The first time I wanted him to kiss me was as he started to loose interest in me (surprize surprize), I called to see if he wanted to go out for dinner. He said "no, I am going to the temple tonight with my ward". So I said "how about lunch". He said "no, I have to work thru my lunch so I can go tonight." So I said "Oh, can I come with you!" He made arrangements for me to do babtisms while he did a session. Afterwards, we walked by the falls. I kept sticking my hand out waiting for him to grab it, but he wouldn't. I tried to lean into him and look dreamily up at him, but he still wouldn't. On the ride home I kept putting my hand by his and on his knee, and he still wouldn't hold it! No kiss that night!

But, our first kiss was at my grandparents house. We were "watching a show" and talking an just started kissing and didn't stop for about 3 hours!! Take about having a red face form wisker burn!

5. When were the first "I love yous" said?

I think they were said that night of the kiss.

6. Long or short engagement?

Lets just say that I got my ring about a week before the wedding. We got engaged in June, and planned to marry in August. We bought the first (and only) dress I tried on, rented an apartment, and when I took Sean to meet my dad he said "Why wait? If you know you are going to get married, just do it. Waiting can only get you in trouble." We thought that was great advice, and moved up the wedding to July 11. My grandparents (whose house the reception was held at) did not think that we could pull off a reception that soon. So 1 month later (August 15)we had the reception on the original wedding date. So we had 5 weeks on 1 pan, 1 towel, etc.

7. Where did you get engaged?

I don't really know. I guess I am pretty naive. That night we kissed and said I love you (I want to spend the rest of my life with you). The next night we looked at wedding rings. The following day, I took my mom out for ice cream and said "Mom, I think I'm gonna get married!" Then at a family function I was intoduced as "Seans fiance." Then I knew I was engaged.

8. Where were you married?

We were married in the Bountiful Utah Temple. I had attended the open house while I was in high school, from then on that was "my temple." Sean didn't mind where, as long as it was a temple. 9. Where did you go on your honeymoon?
The first night we stayed in jacuzzi suite in Brigham City. Then we had a week at my family's cabin in Island Park. But, I was too excited to "play house" that the second night we stayed in our apartment in Pocatello. But that next day we went to the cabin for the week.

10. Where was your first home?

We rented my moms basement apartment for about 9 months. Then we purchased 374 Filmore. It was a small but beautiful home in a great neighborhood with great people, a large fenced yard. a deck, a dog, and 9 months later, Nathan! I still have a spot in my heart there, because it was so peaceful and the home where or family began

Back to School!!!

So, you kn0w me, I am nothing but honest. This is the first year that I have been excited for school to start. Normally I spend the first day walking up and down the halls of the school peeking into their classes, and asking people in the halls if they need help (to justify me staying.)

We have had a great summer, and I feel really good about that. But, we got so lax on our schedule, that I am ready for some structure in the home. It is hard to be the bad guy and say "go to sleep" all the time when there is no formal activities to truly necessitate it. Plus the last few weeks there has been a lot more fighting, boredom, etc.

So, no condolances for me, only much congratulations! (Plus they do come home at noon!:)) We are looking forward to a truly awesome year!

Nate will be in 4th grade this year. He has an awesome teacher that he really loves. She is great and is always finding ways to challenge him. He truly has a love of learning, and to experience new things! This school has been great for him: lots of field trips, and hands on learning and experimenting.

Jaron is in 2nd grade this year. He only had a couple weeks at the school last year, and his teacher had a baby, so he didn't get much time with her last year. We have seen her around town quite a bit the summer, and she still was quite involved, so he knows her and loves her. It will be great to let him settle in. He makes friends so easy, and from what I can see he is the class clown--everyone needs one, right!

We are so proud of our kids. We are thankful to live in a nation where they are given a good education, by teachers who love them. We also take such comfort that they are safe as they are away from home! We love our kids, and are so happy for our little family!

How we teach our children

This weekend we went to Kemmerer to see my dad. He has a couple 4 wheelers and some land. Sean and Emily went for a ride and they saw a deer hiding in the horse shed.

Emily has been on a real bug kick. She loves to find them, hold them until they die and then pull off their legs or wings--sick, I know. So I have been teaching her that even flies and bug are heavenly fathers creatures, and we need to love and take care of them. When we don't, it makes him sad.

So when they see this deer hiding, Sean thought it would be fun to chase it. (That is another FHE lesson I guess. If you can understand her in the video, she is saying "Don't chase him", "heavenly father said not to."

I would like to say that a lesson has been learned here, but I know if Sean sees another opportunity to chase something on a 4 wheeler, he will do it in no time flat!

Don't make me pretty!

The Gordon women drama continues. People ask me "Why don't you put a barrette in her hair? Why don't you let her grow her hair out? Did you forget to brush her hair? Now you can see what I go thru each day in attempt to make her look pretty, I MEAN COOL.

Why men are happier people

I got this as an e-mail from Kim Hardy, but loved it!

NICKNAMES
If Laura, Kate and Sarah go out for lunch, they will call each other Laura, Kate and Sarah. If Mike, Dave and John go out, they will affectionately refer to each other as Fat Boy, Godzilla and Four-eyes.

EATING OUT
When the bill arrives, Mike, Dave and John will each throw in $20, even though it's only for $32.50. None of them will have anything smaller and none will actually admit they want change back. When the girls get their bill, out come the pocket calculators. SO TRUE!

MONEY
A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs. A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn't need but it's on sale. That is ME!!!

BATHROOMS
A man has six items in his bathroom: toothbrush and toothpaste, shaving cream, razor, a bar of soap, and a towel . The average number of items in the typical woman's bathroom is 337. A man would not be able to identify more than 20 of these items.

ARGUMENTS
A woman has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.

FUTURE
A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband. A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.

SUCCESS
A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend. A successful woman is one who can find such a man.

MARRIAGE
A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn't. A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change, but she does.

DRESSING UP
A woman will dress up to go shopping, water the plants, empty the trash, answer the phone, read a book, and get the mail. OKAY, so I AM the exception here. A man will dress up for weddings and funerals. (But I did think of Kim when I read this, You always look beautiful!)

NATURAL
Men wake up as good-looking as they went to bed. Women somehow deteriorate during the night.

OFFSPRING
Ah, children. A woman knows all about her children. She knows about dentist appointments and romances, best friends, favorite foods, secret fears and hopes and dreams. A man is vaguely aware of some short people living in the house. (Luckily for me, I am blessed with a very involved husband!)

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
A married man should forget his mistakes. There's no use in two people remembering the same thing!

Is it morally wrong to lie to your kids?

As many of you know Sean and I have been blessed with a sweet baby girl. Our sweet baby girl is a BIT of a tomboy. She is starting preschool this year, and I would love for her to wear something a little more girlie! When I was in Park city shopping with friends, we went to gymboree. They had adorable skirts, blouses, and tights. Even though I knew I could not pull off too much cutsey stuff, I did find some shirts, leggings and barretts.

Anne had a great suggestion: "How about if we have Caleb give these to her. I bet she would wear them then. At least, she is more likely to." We were thrilled to try it! Here is how it went down.

Wish me luck that I can get her to wear the barretts a couple times!

And today, thanks to cold weather, SUCCESS!!! Doesn't she look cute (even without barretts!)

The importance of a reservation

I am sure that many of you already realize the importance of making reservations of where you and your family will sleep when on vacation. This is something that we Gordons haven't quite learned. From sleeping in a filthy cat ridden hotel (did I mention I am allergic to cats) to setting up camp at midnight, or paying $250 a night for a regular room in Salt Lake, you would think we would have learned. We chose to take the kids camping this weekend. We got in the car and started driving. As we were heading down the interstate towards the y to Idaho Falls or McCammon, we decided to head right (because last time we went left).
30 minutes into the trip we decided to head to Bear Lake. Then we needed to narrow where in Bear Lake? We called and invited my dad and Gail to join us for dinner. We decided that while we wouldn't NEED a reservation, we would use our high tech blackberry phones to do so.
Apparently the Utah Parks and Rec is only open M-Th (for those who do plan ahead!) "That's fine" I think "It's not like anybody would be camping--Utah and Idaho schools are back in session, and next weekend is Labor Day." All the campgrounds were full except for this one by RATTLESNAKE ROAD. The name was enough to keep me from sleeping there, but there were also lots of rocks, and no trees.
We decided to follow dad and Gail back to their house in Kemmerer. We used their firepit to roast hot dogs. Nate and grandpa T-bone slept outside. Apparently there were tons of stars out. My dad has been a scout leader for several years and knows the diffrent stars, so they had fun talking until midnight. I stayed insided (due to a sinus infection), and Sean stayed inside to help with Jaron and Emily so I could sleep (isn't he awesome!!).
Saturday we had fun playing at the park, riding 4 wheelers, soaking in the hot tub, and Nate earned money helping grandpa wax the boat. They even convinced me to go on the 4 wheelers. It reminded me of when Sean and I were first married. We would take his aunts jetskis to American Falls and ride them together. While I have calmed down a lot, I still did have fun racing him on them. We headed home Saturday night so we could be home for church. We are very tired, but we made it on time, and enjoyed the lessons.

So I've been wondering.....

Is it worse to be on the toliet and get walked in on, or is it more embarassing to be the one who walks in on someone? Of course the answer is whichever person you are. We went camping this weekend, and stopped at Maverik for a pit stop. Nate went in, then Emily and I, and Jaron was dying in the hall. Did I mention I am on cold medicine (yet another sinus and ear infection.) Well, I forgot to lock all the locks on the bathroom door. In my defense, I did lock one of them. So just as I sit down the door opens, and a guy (same age as us) walks in on me. Now I know how this feels. So I yell: "Sorry, I am so sorry!" Emily is in the bathroom saying "mommy did he see you, is that okay that he seed you privates?" (A 3year old adding salt to the wound of embarassment.) I am sitting here humiliated thinking why didn't Jaron tell him that I was in there? I came out redfaced, looking at the ground to find Jaron looking at the candy and toys. Then the guy comes out with his hands in the air and said "I promise I didn't see anything!" Sean of course was dying laughing at me.

Unfortunatly this is not the first time this has happened to me. One time I was going to the bathroom at Shopko, I was getting ready to wash my hands when a guy walked in and said "I think you are in the wrong bathroom". So I quickly left and went into the womens to finish up.

Another time I had to stop at the reststop between Blackfoot and Idaho Falls. It was a busy weekend with a lot of people. There were a lot of people in the bathrooms and I had to go bad. As I quickly entered the bathroom, I realized halfway in that I was in the mens room. I rushed into the stall quickly to avoid the embarrasment of being seen. Once in there I thought, "If I go out there I am going to be seen, and then I will have to wait in the womens room and see them again as I leave. So I chose the unthinkable and went to the bathroom in the mens room (keep in mind there were about 10 men in there.) When I finished, I ran out with my face down, and ran to the car and layed down so I wouldn't be seen.

About 13 years ago, I had a boyfriend who was going on a mission. At his farewell was the first time I met his family, and afterwards we went to his home for dinner. I was dying to go to the bathroom. It was a large bathroom with an elevated toliet at the far end of the room. It had an accordian door that didn't lock. So I told the 6 year old sister to guard the door for me. Of course moments later, the dad walks in on me. Talk about humiliation! SO, What would YOU have done?!!!

You know me and tag games!!!

1. Do you like blue cheese? NO. It is discusting, but Sean LOVES it!

2. Have you ever smoked? Never

3. Do you own a gun? No.

4. What flavor Kool Aid was your favorite? Fruit Punch

5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? YES. Especially if they are going to dig for blood, and I dread getting naked

6. What do you think of hot dogs? I like them grilled, but I cant have them too often, or I get nausia.

7. Favorite Christmas movie? A Christmas Story.........Ralphie!

8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Lots and lots of water

9. Can you do push ups? I honestly don't think I have done a pushup in my life!

10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? wedding ring, but a few years ago Sean bought me an opal necklace and a thin chain, that made me feel pretty

11. Favorite hobby? blogging, laughing with friends

12. Do you have A.D.D.? Some times I have to wonder

13. What's one trait you hate about yourself? I don't really hate anything about myself, but I do wish I could be better organized on a regular basis

14. Middle name? None. My parents figured I would get an extra name when I got married, so why bother.

15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment. I should be cleaning, I want to rest my back, I want a nap.

16. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink. Water, Water, Milk.

17. Current worry? Why am I so tired, I better run my errands, what can I do fun with my kids today, what should I fix for lunch, when should I prep dinner, I still need a few school supplies, I better not forget to fold my laundry, What was that noise in the basement...what mess are the kids making. I would write more, but my hands are tired.....

18. Current hate right now? A tired body and mind

19. Favorite place to be? On vacation with Sean and the kids

20. How did you ring in the New Year? We had friends over to visit and play games, kids all played, and we watched a movie on the "big screen"

21. Where would you like to go? Out for lunch, or to take a nap

22. Name three people who will complete this? I wonder.......

23. Do you own slippers? Yep somewhere, I prefer to go barefoot, but if I need slippers, I borrow Seans

24. What color shirt are you wearing right now? pink

25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? I don't think I ever have, but I do like high thread count sheets

26. Can you whistle? Kind of. It really irritates Sean because it is a bit like a hum.

27. Favorite color? I like white, cream, and soft neutrals.

28. Would you be a pirate? I could be a sexy sea wench, but I don't like rough burly dirty guys

29. What songs do you sing in the shower? Les Mis, Fiddler on the roof, Stop in the name of Love, I'd rather be a hammer than a nail, and much more. (Nate teases me about it)

30. Favorite Girl's Name? aside from my kids: Elise, Rebecca, Elizabeth, Annie, Maele, Maelani

31. Favorite boy's name? aside from the kids: Andrew, Jacob, Joshua

32. What's in your pocket right now? Nothing

33. Last thing that made you laugh? Sean was laughing in his sleep last night.

34. Best bed sheets as a Child? Strawberry shortcake and Sesame Street

35. Worst injury you've ever had? Delivering babies, Horrific sunburns

36. Do you love where you live? I LOVE it! I love Pocatello, and I love my neighborhood (wish I didn's smell Simplot as much though.

37. How many TVs do you have in your house?2 TVs, 1 projector, 1 in the garage "kids fort"

38. Who is your loudest friend? I think I am "the Loud friend"

39. How many dogs do you have? None... a few weeks ago we almost got 2!!!lol

40. Does someone have a crush on you? I hope Sean does!

41. What is your favorite book? Photobooks, scrapbooks and journals

42. What is your favorite candy? 3 muskateers

43. Favorite Sports Team? Pocatello High School! lol

44. What song do you want played at your funeral? When I was in the Alameda 2nd ward choir we sand a medley of "Each life that touches ours for good", and "Abide with me, fast falls the Eventide" It is beautiful and very touching. I love it!

Okay, so if you choose to do it, let me know!

We're doing WHAT!??!!

I thought this photo was too funny! She looks so SURPRISED! As some of you know we went boating with my dad in Soda on Saturday. A little less known is the fact that we could have lost her that day. When the plans started forming the thought came to mind "Keep Emily in her lifejacket." Of course, that is always the plan, but I think Heavenly Father is too aware of my laziness and wanted to make sure I knew how important it was. My dad had a big raft that he pulled behind his boat. Nate, Jaron, Sean and Emily went out. (I was vidoeing this). When they were bouncing around, I realized they were bouncing a little too much, (I was the spotter). I turned to tell my dad that it was a little too rough (now the video turned off), when all of the sudden they hit a big one, and Emily seriously flew up about 5 feet high and out. Sean hopped up and dove in to get her. My heart started beating again when I could see that she was in fact floating on top of the water, thanks to the lifevest. We put her into the boat, and I wrapped her in a towel and held her for a few minutes, after about 7 minutes, she was ready to go out and do it again. I still can't really laugh about it (except when she says "Mom, did I flied in the air?"), but I do feel so very blessed. I hope that this experience will stay with all of us so that we can keep our families safe, now and in the future. It also reaffirms my testimony that we have a living Heavenly Father who truly does love us and is mindful of us at all times. He truly is always at the door, and it is our responsibility to listen and let him in. I am so greatful to live in America and especially in Pocatello. I love my family, friends and associates, and am so greatful for all my blessings.

I guess when you read my blog, you never know if you will laugh your can off, or if I will be really sappy! Well, today I am sappy.

BUT........

Did you know that Pocatello is the BIG CITY:

Okay, this kills me. There is a car dealership in Soda Springs that says that Pocatello is the Big City: "go to Poky to ride a escallator, elevator, or attend a big sporting event, but to get the best deals on cars, go to the little city of Soda."

And people laugh at me that I think Salt Lake is the BIG CITY!

Tag

Since my last tag went so well, NOT!
No I thought this would be fun. Answer with the first word that comes to mind.

1. Where is your cell phone? car
2. Where is your significant other? airplane
3. Your hair? ponytail
4. Your mother? working
5. Your father? working
6. Your favorite thing? family
7. Your dream last night? non
8. Your dream/goal? happiness
9. The room you're in? computer
10. Your hobby? blogging
11. Your fear? snakes
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? greatful
13. Where were you last night? home
14. What you're not? athletic
15. One of your wish list items? energy
16. Where you grew up? Pocatello
17. The last thing you did? talked
18. What are you wearing? PJs
19 Your TV? off
20. Your Pet? none
21. Your computer? on
22 Your mood? dull
3 Missing someone? Sean
24 Your car? dirty
25 Something you're not wearing? shoes
26 Favorite store? Shopko
27 Your summer? fun
28 Love someone? Sean
29 Your favorite color? cream
30 When is the last time you laughed? minutes ago
31 Last time you cried? hours ago

Wisdom shared at a day out with the girls

First of all, we wished everyone was there! You were missed.

Bev likes expensive bras.
Jen sometimes wears hers backwards.
When calling Anne, state your first and last name before she gives you too much information.
If you want Michelle to keep a secret, you have to specify that it is infact a secret.
Kim "compares" her children. (At least when it comes to buying clothing.)
Bev loves bright colored shoes!
Michelle talks ALOT.
Kim is into ORANGE lately.
When bearing your testimony, remember, there is a diffrence between scrotum and saccrum.
Jens first kiss was Michelle's cousin.
Michelle's first kiss is lucky to be alive after having his head smashed into a phone pole repeatedly.
If you are considering buying Boyd a swimsuit, don't ask first, just do it.
If you are at work, and trying not to work, DO NOT make eye contact with Bev, she will make you help her.
Michelle thinks men made out of legos can talk.
If you see Jen shopping, MUG HER, she is the only one who carries cash.
If you share any food items with Anne, YOU divide!
Kim likes her drinks SOUR!!!
If the guy at TCBY asks you how to make your chocolate milkshake, get something else.. It is possible to have too much of a good thing, even chocolate.
Use a flash when taking photos at a restraunt.
If you are close to starting...use the boy scout motto..be prepared!!
Even without saying a word (ie blogging) Michelle talks ALOT
When on a budget, don't ask your friends "Should I get this?"
Women think about guilt at least as much as men think about sex---Whew that must be why our husbands are TIRED!!!

Finally, even when you are nervous to leave your family for a day, do it you won't regret it, plus, laughter is good for the soul!

Lava with Ramsey family

Yet another video of a fun family trip to Lava this year! Sean and I and the kids went to Lava on Monday. We were in style sitting under shade with a table, chairs, games, etc. George and Hazel (Annes mom and dad) were up there camping and met up with us at the pools. We had a great day. It has become a tradition for the husbands to jump from the 3rd platform each year. Now the oldest boys (Nate and Logan) have followed in their dads footsteps and begun jumping from the 1st and 2nd platforms.

In the video you will notice several refrences to ritz crackers. This became the joke of the day. Gordons brought crackers, and several time thruout the day someone would want crackers. "Oh, are these yours?", "I thought these were mine", "sorry", "ask the Gordons" were just a few of the comments made that day.

George and Hazel were so sweet to the kids that Emily told Anne the they were "her grandparents too!" We have had so much fun this summer.....What's next!?!!

Girls day out!!

So, yesterday was a first for me. Jen Mecham, Bev Jones, Kim Hardy, Anne Ramsey and I headed up to Park City Utah to go school shopping. We met at 8:30 am, so, you know me, at 8:10 I was still not showered and planning to not go. But I am so glad I did. We had so much fun visiting and laughing with eachother.


Of course we shopped ALOT!!! We also went out to eat at Ruby Tuesday. I can just say that Bev and I were the DDs. No we were not the Designated Drivers, we Drink Duds, in that we only consumed water while our friends kicked back a few flavored lemondades. Kim made me try some of hers, but that stuff is too strong for me!

Our shopping mainly consisted of purchases for our children, but while shopping we decided that we needed some jewerly. We found a great necklace that we all loved. Dang my fat neck!! It didn't look good on me. They each got a matching necklace, but I found a diffrent one that fit a little better. It's okay, I like mine too. In fact mine brings good luck.


We had to take a trip to Walmart (non of your business why), and I was the only one who this handsome fellow hit on. (It may have been my dangling earings--always sending the wrong impression!) His name was a little odd, but he promised me gold, jewels, and plenty of adventure. He became very quiet when I told him I was already happily married. Don't worry Sean, my heart always belongs to you!


I do have one more surprise from this trip that I will reveal on Halloween, so keep reading!

Summer Swimming 2008

I have had a heck of a time getting this video to upload! Hope you enjoy it. Hope Anne gets those cookies to me. Hope we are all still friends! And I hope you all have had as great of a summer as we have!

Anne likes raspberry sherbet ALOT!!!!

Tonight we went to IceCream Zoofari with the Ramseys and Hardys. Anne was dying for some sherbert. We searched all over. When we found it and were in line, a guy came with 2 more containers of it. Anne said "Kick him in the knee, I will take the sherbet and run." Since I am a nonviolent person, I said "no", so she settled for just a cone, or two, or three, or four....

Just kidding Anne! You are a great sport!

This is what happens when 3 yr old gets the camera

As I was reviewing recent photos, I think "What in the world....Who took this?" Obviously Emily and her friend Caleb found the camera and photographed eachother. At least they are digital!