To be a Pioneer

Hi, I'm Kinsey. My mom is the writer of this blog. She wanted me to write about my experiences on a Pioneer Trek I went on. Pioneer Trek is when a large group of the youth in a stake gets together and sees what it was like for the pioneers to go from Nauvoo, Illinois to Salt Lake City, Utah. We didn't go that far, only 25 miles, well actually that is a long way, but not as long as the pioneers. We walked for two and a half days pulling handcarts and dressed up as pioneers (I had to wear a long sleeve/ankle length dress with an apron, pantaloons, and a bonnet.) There were about 15 families on the trek. There was a Ma, Pa, Aunt, Uncle, five boys, and five girls. My family was the McBride family from either Scotland or Ireland. At night we slept under the stars, we usually went to bed at about one or two in the morning and woke up at six. I didn't like the food until the last day (but others said it was the best food they had ever tasted, maybe I am just really picky.)In each family there would be four awards to give to family members that had shown what that award symbolized. The awards were for Unity, Service, Spirituality, and Authenticity. I got spirituality for reading my Book of Mormon and writing in my journal every night. My big brother got service for carrying people that didn't want to get wet across the river. The unity award was for working hard to get the family to work together and to enjoy each others company. And the Authenticity award was for acting the most like a pioneer and trying hard to understand what it was like to be a pioneer. On the second night of the trek we had a hoe down. Earlier that day Bishop Roberts (he was in charge of planning and putting Trek together) announced some people whom had died that day on the Trek (I was one of them) he called out our names, we went up and "walked through the veil." I found out that they just needed a person from each family to help set up for the hoedown. When we were done we were resurrected and went back to our families. They were happy to see me....At the hoedown, the big brothers and sisters taught everyone else how to square dance. There was also some really, really good homemade root beer.

Friends Never Say Goodbye

One of Carson's favorite people in the world is his Nana. She has been living in Texas for the last year, but decided to move back to St. George, UT. Gary drove her back this past weekend and then flew home on Sunday. Carson was really upset that he didn't get to go with them so he refused to kiss Nana or even say goodbye to her. He didn't really understand what was going on so everytime the front door opened this weekend he would say "hi dad" then would be very disappointed when one of us would say "hi Carson". I let him go with me to the airport to pick up Gary. He was very excited...Yay, Dad! He tried to take a nap on the way, but I told him to stay awake or he would miss finding Dad...Yay Dad! We found him, Carson was very excited for a minute and then let him know he was still mad at him for leaving. He even said no when Gary offered him chocolate, but then came to his senses and accepted it...I guess it's easy to forgive when you offer chocolate! He's still not sure what's going on because he put on his shoes this morning so he could go to Nana's house. I told him she wasn't there and his shoulders sunk to his knees as he walked away dejected. It's so sad when one of your best friends moves away:(

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It's Off To Camp We Go

This is my 12 year old, Jared. He is off to camp for a week. He had to be at HEB at 5:00 this morning so we woke up at 4:30. I was excited sad to send my son off to camp. A whole week without Jared...what are we going to do? I'll tell you what we did...the happy dance! Is that wrong? We waited until he was gone!

The feeling was mutual. He was ready to go to camp. He got up right when he was told, was dressed in 5 minutes (even his shoes), ate breakfast, brushed his teeth, and was ready to go right on time! Read my Sabbath Day Bliss to see what a miracle that is.

He's been getting his things ready for about a week. I printed off the list for him and the first things he asked for were matches and a pocket knife. I told him to skip those and get the other stuff on the list. He followed me all over the house asking for matches and a knife over and over again. That child is persistant. He finally got the matches last night. Then at 10:00 (pm) he told me he needed me to do laundry...he didn't have enough clean clothes to go to camp!?! Oh, that child will be the death of me!

This is my 14 year old daughter, Kinsey. She went off to camp too. She loves camp and looks forward to it all year. She was excited this year to be able to bunk with her good friend, Brittany.

We had to do some last minute shopping for a few things, but for the most part she was ready to go. All of her clothes were clean, she didn't ask for matches or a pocket knife...only food! Lots and lots of snack food. A good mother would say 'no' but I think if you are going to be out in the good old outdoors without air conditioning, you need some good snacks to get you through the week.

I really will miss them both. It's so fun to see your children excited about going to camp. I have to admit, I even like the boy that follows me around asking me for a knife and matches. There's just something about a boy that loves dirt, fire, and knives (in a completely non-destructive way) that makes a mom smile!

To All The Dads I've Loved Before

I've had fathers on the brain today. I have been thinking of all that have had an influence on me in my lifetime. There is my own dad. He taught me to be honest, to love this country, to say please and thank you, to clean up after myself, to chew with my mouth closed. He taught me to drive a car, to be responsible, to work hard, and to be nice to people. He was the first man to love me. He just buried his youngest daughter...something that no dad should ever have to do. Daddy, I love you.

There was the dad that baptized our family, Elder Fred Duersch, Sr. He had planned on going on a mission with his wife, but she passed away before they were able. At the age of 65 he went on a mission serving with 19 year old boys. He taught by example how to love and serve others and to listen to the prophet. He dug up our yard to plant a garden, he gave us money to travel to the temple, he went through the temple with us and was then able to come to my wedding. He bore his testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel. He answered every letter we wrote him and sent us money to start a missionary fund for our children. What a wonderful example to me.

There have been many bishops that have had an impact on my life, but none more than Bishop John Norris. He was my bishop when Carson was born. He heard that we had a child with Down Syndrome and rushed to the hospital to see what we needed. He told us how lucky we were and what a great gift we had been given. He gave me a blessing that I would be at peace. He would come to Enrichment meetings and walk the halls with Carson so I could enjoy the meeting. It was a very special time that I will never forget.

Gary's dad, James Warburton was another dad that influenced my life. Mostly by teaching his son how to be a good husband and father. He raised a loving and kind son. The most important thing he did was love Gary's mom.

The dad that was Carson's physical therapist. He taught Carson how to walk and step up on a curb. He bounced him on a giant ball while Carson screamed and cried. He sat on a swing with him, swinging back and forth to strengthen his muscles. He didn't do it for the money, he did it because he loved kids with special needs and wanted to help them. I was so happy the day that my son quit doing the bear crawl and stood up and walked. What a great day. Thanks, Tom.

There are so many others. I think this dad is pretty special:

This is my husband of eighteen years. Gary and I have been through alot. He has seen me cry, scream, get mad. We have laughed and had good times together. We have had five beautiful, talented and smart children. He is kind and patient. I have never heard him say a negative thing about anyone. He is a wonderful example of Christlike love and service. I love you, Gary.

this is their serious "pioneer" pose...the big kids can't help but laugh

These are the future dads (and moms) in my life. I hope that I can teach them to be like the dads that taught me. If they are anything like them, they will have blessed children.

I have also been thinking about my Heavenly Father. I'm so grateful that He knows my heart and my intentions. He know my strengths and weaknesses. He love me unconditionally. I am one blessed daughter of God and I am so grateful!

Happy Father's Day!

Something Else I'm Wondering...

Why did I bother to mop during the summer? I'm already sticking to the floor again!

I Wonder...

Yesterday I bought a mop...The Libman Wonder Mop. As I was using it this morning I wondered why they call it the Wonder Mop. It's not like it's wonderful. It's a mop for heaven's sake. Then I wondered what kind of mop other people use. I've used all sorts of mops...the Swiffer WetJet (yuk), the Hoover Floor Mate (wasn't crazy about it), the sponge mops (awful), and the hands-and-knees method of mopping (I know the floor is clean). I must admit, I hate mopping. Then I wondered if other people liked to mop. You know like some people love to fold laundry, some people love to mow the yard, and some people like to do dishes.

As I finished mopping the entire downstairs, the lightbulb went on. I know why it's called the Wonder Mop. It makes you wonder while you mop. I wonder what mop is your favorite? My favorite is the one that the cleaning lady is holding. You know...that person you pay money to come to your house, clean it, and when they leave it smells good...for about 5 minutes if you're lucky.

If you're wondering...the Wonder Mop is okay. It was better after I figured out that you have to turn the thing at the bottom to get the excess water out. Before that, I wondered why they had a wringer on the mop if it didn't wring out the water. It was just a big wet mess on my floor. I guess if all else fails, read the instructions... or hire a maid. I wonder if my husband would mind?

We Will Love Him And Call Him George

This cute cat showed up on our doorstep one morning. It was very friendly and gentle. The kids were very excited and ran out to pet the cat we named "George". George liked to run into the house every time we opened the door. Then the kids would chase him and Carson would scream (he doesn't like anything that is furry and moves.) We put him back outside and figured he'd be gone soon. The next time we opened the door the same thing happened. The kids were beginning to think the cat was their pet. The only problem with the solution of adopting the cat is that Gary is allergic to cats. That is one of the big tragedies in Kinsey's life...her dad is allergic to cats. In fact, on her list of qualities in a husband, "can't be allergic to cats or is willing to take Zyrtec" is at the top of her list.

After a few days of the cat running in, Gary got annoyed and threw the cat off the porch (not in a cruel way) and yelled at the cat to go away. The kids were very upset with him. He got this email later on in the day:

Hi Mr. Man-who-threw-me-off-the-porch,

Shanon let me in and gave me a nice warm bowl of milk. I am now laying down for a nap in your bed on your pillow. Meow! Thank you for your hospitality. Your family loves me, hugs me, squeezes me and calls me...

George the Cat

As you can imagine, Gary was very afraid I had gone off my rocker and had really let the cat in the house. This is his response:

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH………………My pillow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! …………..AAAAAAAAAAAAAaHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

To which George replied:

oh...and I am using your slippers for a litter box so be careful what you put your feet in!!!

Meow! George

I'm not sure why Gary wonders if his wife is evil.

We had just about convinced Gary to let us keep him when the cat took off for greener pasture (or someone who would feed him and let him come inside). We really miss him. He gave us lots of excitement and a little bit of screaming for a few days. Just what we need around here.

Tempting...But No

One day my sister, Lori, was at a convenience store filling up her gas tank. This charming man (a stranger) walked up to her and said "wanna go to the muud hole....and get durty?!!!" Surprisingly, she didn't take him up on his offer.

She always had a good story to tell. Anyone have a funny story to share? I'm missing my sister today and could use a laugh!

Of Course I Rotate The Tires...How Do You Think I Got Here?

Recently my parents were on a cross-country trip when the car's maintenance light came on. My dad insisted on going to the nearest Honda dealership. Was there anything wrong with the car? Nope, it was just time for the oil to be changed.

I was reminded of this today as I was driving my car that is desperately in need of an oil change. My car starts off by gently reminding me that it is time. "Excuse me, when you have the time I could use some clean oil and maybe a new filter. No hurry, though, just whenever you get to it." The maintenance light comes on as I am starting the car and stays on a few seconds longer than normal. If I ignore it, the light will start blinking after I start the car. "I don't mean to be a bother, but I could really use an oil change. It's been 4 months and the oil is starting to look like a bad cup of coffee." This is when the car has just had enough. "Okay, fine. If you are going to ignore me then I will start to break one piece at a time." The maintenance light stays on...like it's yelling at me. Then the automatic door quits working and the locks only work sometimes. I should probably take care of it at this point. If I don't, the hatchback might fall on my head as I'm loading the groceries. Not that I know this from experience or anything.

I guess it's time for me to visit Jiffy Lube....and maybe take a couple of Ibuprofen.

Update: Gary replaced the things in the hatchback. Yay...no more loading with one hand while holding with the other. Just so Gary would know that the car still needed an oil change...the hatchback fell on his head while he was fixing it. He might need a couple of Ibuprofen, too. This car sure is touchy!

No Smackdown Today

The kids were very good today. Jared mowed the yard and tried very hard to resist the urge to bother anyone. Emily did all of her chores and came home with a wonderful watercolor painting she did in art. Carson was Mister Crankypants, but he's so cute when he's cranky. He played in the pool and went to the park with his daddy. Everyone (including Gary) enjoyed Carson's new toy...a wooden toolbox with tools and screws. We had a friend over for Emily, Jared went to his swim camp and is getting better at the breaststroke, and I shredded four bags of old papers. I'm averaging about 4-5 hours of sleep a night, but still getting more done than I have the last 2 years that I have been here in Texas. I'm hoping the sandman comes soon and puts an extra dose of sleepy sand over me so I can sleep tonight. It was a good day, though. A "no smacking" day is a good day! I love my kiddos!

Sabbath Day Bliss

Yesterday I woke up very early (2 am). Needless to say, that does not make for a very energetic and cheerful mom. At 7 am I tried to lovingly wake everyone up for church. After about 5 minutes of love I screamed at my 12 year old to get out of bed right now and get ready for church!!!!! At 7:15 am Carson came down the stairs with poop dropping out of his pajama pants with each step. At 7:20 am I was bathing Carson and getting him ready for church. At 7:30 am I was hooking up the carpet cleaner to clean all the steps with poop on them. At 7:35 am I was listening to Emily scream because Jared was sitting on top of her feet. At 7:36 am I was screaming at Jared to get ready for church this instant or ELSE!!!!!!!!! At 7:40 am I went in to get ready for church (luckily I had a shower the night before). At 7:45 am I realized that my hair was not going to do a thing unless I got it wet. At 7:50 am I was bent over the bathtub with my bum in the air trying to get my hair under the faucet to get it wet. At 7:55 am I blow dry my hair. At 8 am I put on the second skirt and third shirt of the day because I have outgrown all my clothes (that chocolate is not doing a thing for my waistline except expanding it). At 8:05 am I put my makeup on (I know you're surprised I wear makeup, you probably thought I just had natural beauty. Ha!*) At 8:10 am I find my shoes and get the church bag ready to go. At 8:15 I tell everyone it's time to go. At 8:20 I tell everyone to come on, it's time to go. Jared comes down with one shoe, but can't find the other one. AHHHHHHH!!!!! At 8:25 am we finally leave. At 8:26 am Emily is upset because Jared is in her space. At 8:27 am Carson is screaming because Jared is bothering him. At 8:27 am I am screaming at Jared to leave everyone alone. We finally have a bit of peace (a very small bit). At 8:55 am we arrive at church. Gary (who left at 7:10 am for a meeting) is sitting there all smiles and asks how my morning was and if the poop came out of the carpet. At 9:05 am I resist the urge to smack my husband in front of the bishopric. At 9:10 am I tell my husband I am leaving after sacrament meeting. At 9:15 I leave the meeting to take Carson to the bathroom (he loves the echo in the family bathroom). At 9:20 am Jared comes and sits beside me after passing the sacrament. At 9:25 Jared wants a piece of paper and a pencil. At 9:30, 9:35, 9:40, 9:45, 9:50, 9:55, and 10:00 Jared either wants something or pokes me. At 10:05 I resist the urge to smack my 12 year old in front of the bishopric. At 10:10 I took Carson to primary but his teacher wasn't there so I took him home with me. At 10:40 am I come home to a very messy kitchen. The rest of the day is kind of a blur...more of the same. I went to bed at 9:00 pm. I was very tired. I woke up at 2:00 am this morning. I guess today will be more of the same......a blur. Oh, and the bishopric won't be here so there may be some smacking!

*or you are thinking...she puts make up on and still looks like THAT?!!!

How To Compromise Or Why I'm A Chocoholic

Another set of emails I never deleted.

Dear Gary, I am patiently waiting for the email from you that tells me your computers are so slow that you are going to come pick up Jared at 9:30, take him to see the doctor, go thru a drive thru to get him some lunch and then take him back to school. I know you are going to do that because you love me so much and you're concerned that I might just end up in the loony bin or the cardiac unit. I'm waiting.......Love, Shanon PS You can even work late and I won't be mad!

Dear Shanon, You can do it, you can do it, you can do it. Just keep repeating to yourself, I can do it and be happy. Love Gary

Dear Gary, I can't hear you...I'm still waiting for the email that tells me what I WANT to hear. Love, Shanon

Dear Shanon, Shouldn’t it be “ I can’t read you, I can't read you”? Thanks, Gary

Dear Gary, Whatever! Pleeeeeeeeeease?!!!!!!!!! (picture pouty lip). Shanon

Dear Shanon, Sadly, our system is actually working this morning. I must stay. Remember, Jared sometimes can be bribed with food. Love, Gary

Dear Gary, Stupid system! Jared isn't the problem (not this time anyway.) I'm imagining brain tumors, horrible cancers, diabetes, the list goes on and on. I'm going to be mad at you, but remember I can be bribed with chocolate. She walks away with a heavy sigh...

Shanon, Remember 2 Timothy 1:7 (Pres. Hinckley’s favorite) For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of a love, and of a sound mind. Love, Gary

Gary, Thanks, Humpf! I was given the spirit of worry! I SAID I can be bribed with chocolate!!! Sigh.....

Dear Shanon, Don’t Worry the chocolate will be there tonight! Love, Gary

Luckily, when I went to pick up Jared he was taking a test so I rescheduled the appointment. I scheduled it for a day when Gary could take him...and he still brought chocolate. See how we compromise!

He Loves Me...He Loves Me Not...He Loves Me!

I have a problem with email...I never delete anything (just like I never throw anything away). I might need them one day! I found this email exchange in my sent mail folder. I guess in February we were all sick. The health department even paid a visit. See?!!!

Dear Mr. Warburton,

I am writing to inform you that we have issued a quarantine on your home. If you know what's good for you, you will run for your life (and maybe check into a hotel!) Don't say I didn't warn you!!

The Health Department
(or the ill-health department)

Oh oh………is everyone sick now?

Dear Mr. Warburton,

All the girls are sick (although I think Emily is on the mend). Carson perked up this morning, but now that the ibuprofen has worn off he is pitiful. Shanon is in a cold medicine induced stupor. She has been ordered by the health department to go to bed...and NO COOKING!!! If you don't want your family to starve, you should probably drop off dinner at the door before you run for your life. She has also been ordered to not drive since she almost ran over the curb as she was leaving to pick up Kinsey. She said she will obey that order as soon as she picks up her oldest. Then she will come home and pass out...and yes she knows she is a whiner, but for heavens sake--she is sick!

Chris and Jared have not made it home yet, but it is only a matter of time. This is a very contagious virus.

We are very sorry to have to deliver all this bad news. Like we said, run as fast as you can to the nearest germ-free place...after you deliver the food!

Sincerely, The Health Department

Sounds like a very dangerous place to be. I may have to wear a face mask while in the premises. Sounds like a good night for chicken soup but I don’t know how to make it and I don’t think you want to eat at midnight. So I will think of some sort of good dinner.

He came home and made us soup...not the chicken soup I was hoping for but I digress. He wasn't even wearing a mask. He must really love me!

It wasn't really the health department...it was me. Shhhhh...don't tell Gary!

The Things I Learned While In The Closet

Tornado season has arrived! A few days ago we were under a tornado warning but pretty much ignored it until the sky started to turn ugly and the wind started picking up. I love the new radar systems because they can tell you exactly when you should go into the closet during a bad storm so we decided to turn on the TV. In Florida it was always big news if there were hurricanes or tornadoes in the area, but when we turned on the one of the news channels here, it was the Magic vs the Lakers with a running commentary underneath and pictures of each county (unlabeled, I might add). We finally found a station without sports and they told us when the storm would hit Round Rock. ( I know you love your sports here in Texas, but we are having tornadoes for heaven sakes, give me the doplar radar!)

Carson and I went into the closet when they said it was near Round Rock. No one else wanted to go in because they wanted to see the storm on TV. When the TV went out they all started coming in. Not because they wanted to be safe but because I had the laptop. Carson and I were very comfortable until everyone started crowding around us. They wanted our spots. There were feet, pillows, and blankets everywhere. Then it started to get warm in there so I braved the elements and left the closet to make the air colder. When I came back in, everyone was thirsty so I once again braved the elements to get everyone a drink. By this time I had lost my comfy spot and the laptop so I had to find a new place to sit. I started moving stuff out of the closet. By this time everyone was hungry so I braved the elements once again to find some snacks. When I came back, Gary told me that the storm had passed and we could leave the closet. Oh...okay...as long as we're safe now.

So what I learned while in the closet...just stay out of the closet. Maybe even stand out in the yard and pray that the storm takes you quickly. It couldn't be as bad as being in a closet with a husband, 5 kids (and we only had 3 that night), a laptop, no food (except #10 cans with no can opener), no drinks, and lots of junk. Another thing I learned? That food in the 72 hour kits I made last year and put under my bed still tasted good....at least the dumdums. What an appropriate snack for the evening.

After the storm, I went up stairs and destroyed my couch with a hammer. I love demolition!

He Duz That All The Time

Carson had an exciting day today. He was invited to a party. A birthday party for his friend Trevor. What do you do when you are invited to a party? Why, you go to Target to buy a birthday gift. Why Target? I don't know...I just love to browse through Target. It's so clean and organized and you can push a cart through the aisles. Nothing like that other place!

Carson doesn't enjoy browsing through Target as much as I do, but he tolerated it because he was excited about going to see the toys. Most people with a 6 year old would rather go to the dentist or have a baby without an epidural than go to the toy aisle. I am usually one of those people because it makes me sad. Carson has never gotten excited about the toys. He didn't seem to understand or pay attention. Today was different. He noticed the toys. He wanted to inspect every one. He was looking for the perfect gift for his friend. He said "bop" (stop) every time he saw a toy he liked. It was pure joy! I had the best time with him. He finally picked out a Spongebob Connect Four game. What does a mom who is in a good mood do? She buys two, of course! One for the birthday boy and one for Carson. I don't do it alot so you can't really call it spoiling!

We came home and wrapped the gift with robot paper and a robot card. Carson was enjoying this birthday party stuff. He was very excited to put on his suit and new water shoes and head to the party. We walked into party central and he ran right up to Trevor and gave him his gift and then decided to play the video game that Trevor was playing. Trevor handed the gift to me and said, "oh, this pwesent is fwom Cawson. He's oveh theh (points to TV). He duz that all the time!" It was so normal. A birthday boy having his friend come over for fun times and video games like it's something they do every weekend.

Carson played on the water slide...up and down, up and down. Splash, splash, splash. Normal stuff. I sat on the sidelines, talked to friends, relaxed. I enjoyed myself. I heard Carson screaming and someone said oh, don't worry...it's Carson laughing everytime they come down the slide. I helped make sno cones and passed out cupcakes. I laughed and enjoyed myself a lot.

I wish I could say "he duz that all the time" but he doesn't. Carson has Down Syndrome. He doesn't get invited to many parties. It's sad for a mom, luckily he doesn't know any different right now. He just had a fun time like he "duz it all the time." What a great day! Thanks Trevor, Jeannie, Katelynne, and Trey. You made a mom and boy smile. He had so much fun, he came home and fell asleep on the couch at 5:00. What a perfect day. A perfectly NORMAL day!

By-the-way, what would a perfectly normal mom do? She would forget her camera! If anyone has pictures of my Carson and Emily could I have a copy? Thanks!

Day 6

Today Jared asked me if I was okay. When I asked why he said "well, you seem like you have a good attitude today." Yep...my kids will need lots of therapy when they're older!

HISMSV - Day 5

You don't even want to know. Let's just say "stick a toothpick in me...I'm done!!!"

It all started when I woke up at 3:30 am and just got worse from there. My theory about having a clean kitchen was not true...my kitchen was spotless, but still I woke up early. I have driven children all over town, heard "mommeeeeee" a million and one times, and heard Emily tell Jared to "st-o-o-o-o-p" which he loves to hear because he didn't stop. Then it escalated into screaming which made Carson cry which resulted in them being sent to bed without dinner at 4:00. Can I scream like that, too?!! Maybe I should send myself to bed.

I'm tired and cranky and I want to go to Hershey, PA and eat all the chocolate in the town. Maybe sit in town square and pay someone to bring it to me. I think I should probably have my mouth sewn shut so I don't weigh 1000 lbs when this mood passes.

On a positive note: I finished the seat cushion for Emily's window seat. It only took me eight months to finish. It is very cozy and comfy. If I were her I would spend hours in there reading a book. She may be doing that since I sent her and Jared to bed.

Ahhhh...peace and quiet.

Happy Happy Birthday

• Happy, happy birthday, Daddy dear
  Happy days will come to you all year.
  If I had one wish then it would be
  A happy, happy birthday to you from me.
  
  This is my daddy, George Michael Welch. He was born on June 7, 1938 so today is his 71st birthday. He doesn't look a day over 50. A few things about my dad:
  

• he is called by many names: I call him Daddy, my kids call him Papa, my mom calls him Mike, at work he was called Trooper Welch then Sergeant Welch and maybe Corporal in between, at church he is called Brother Welch, he is called a friend by many, some people call him stubborn, and some people call him things I can't say, but I'll just stick with Daddy since it's his birthday
• he has this strange obsession with Adam's (you know, Adam and Eve Adam) belly button...he always asks the missionaries if Adam had a belly button, when they said yes he would ask why since he wasn't born then the poor missionaries would run screaming from the house...come to think of it, maybe it is an obsessions with torturing 19 year old missionaries
• Sunday School teachers always love it when he raises his hand, because he usually has something thought provoking to add to the lesson.....or not
• he loves classical music and the opera
• he gets up early because that is the noble thing to do, but likes to take a nap every day.
• he is very resourceful...in this picture he is using a cardboard juice box as a pillow
• he is a gifted and talented woodcarver...he gives me a hand-carved Santa or piece of a nativity every year...it is something I will treasure forever!
• all of his carvings and hand-made furniture have the ASL sign for "I love you"
• he is left-handed and thinks that Jesus is left-handed
• he loves his family
• he was always very protective of me...I am his favorite daughter :-)

I love you, Daddy! Have a great day!

HISMSV - Days 3 and 4

Do you count the weekend as part of summer vacation? I'm not sure....it's part of the summer, but it's not really vacation because then it would be vacation from the weekend so the kids should go to school. Right?!! You like how I think, don't you?

So anyway....if you do count it as summer vacation, this is what I did:

Day 3

• Got up at 5:30 am, not the 2:30 that I predicted (yay!), but still way too early for a Sat. (boo!)
• Cleaned the kitchen - are you noticing a pattern? maybe if I cleaned the kitchen at night I would be able to sleep in.
• I did some laundry - yes, we are doing laundry all the time around here. It is NEVER caught up.
• I helped Emily make cookies for the daddy/daughter activity. They were chocolate chip and the cookie dough was delicious.
• I cleaned Carson's room and then kicked him out of his room so I could turn it into a scrapbook/craft/sewing/computer/homework room.
• Moved Carson's stuff to the learning center. It is soooooo cute. It's like his own little dorm room. He loves it! We hung curtains up at the entry so he can have privacy, or not, whichever he chooses.
• Picked Chris up from SAT test.
• Went to Home Depot with Gary to get supplies to make Carson a small desk and book rack. Gary finished the desk and now has a new project to do. Poor man will never finish his to-do list because his wife has OCD and ADD tendencies.
• Helped Gary make the desk.
• Went to bed, couldn't sleep, got up, read a book, fell asleep on the couch.

Day 4

• Woke up way to early (what is wrong with me, I used to sleep so well)?
• Got ready for church.
• We were late because I was asked at the last minute to teach Carson's class (it couldn't be helped...children never get sick early enough for good planning).
• About 15 minutes into the meeting Carson wet his pants (and not with the sacrament water).
• Took Carson to the bathroom, took off his wet clothes, and told him to stay there while I went to get a diaper or underwear.
• Ran out to the car, found a diaper, and ran back inside.
• Carson did not stay in the bathroom...he was standing in the foyer naked from the waist down (except white socks and sandals...yes, he is a fashion victim).
• I didn't have extra pants, just a diaper so I took him back to the meeting with church shirt, sandals, white socks, and diaper...I expect babyGap to call any day now.
• Decided the best thing to do was go home after sacrament meeting.
• Found someone to substitute Carson's class for me (I was substituting for someone who was substituting for the regular teacher...got that?).
• Went and visited with our friend Vilate...she hit us both in the head which I'm sure is her way of saying "I love you :-)"
• Went home.
• Wanted to take a nap but I can't seem to sit still long enough. One day I'll just drop off to sleep, right?!!

That's my summer vacation...weekend edition. If something exciting...like Carson sneaking out to the pool that still has poop water from yesterday and playing in it...happens, I'll let you know.

The Fwimi Poo

Carson loves his fwimi soup (swimming suit). He also loves his fwimi poo (swimming pool). Speaking of poo...right after I took these pictures guess what?!? Yep, he pooped in the pool. When a little boy gets into his swimming, something like going potty is easy to forget. Add that to my list of exciting summer vacation activities...draining poo water and cleaning a poopy fwimi soup.

I think his talking is quite cute!

How I Spent My Summer Vacation - Day 2

I know you are sitting on the edge of your seat for this one...so here goes:

• woke up a 4:30 am (wiiiiide awake)
• cleaned the kitchen
• swept and mopped the kitchen floor
• did two loads of laundry
• went on the computer for a few minutes
• woke Gary up at 6 am to go walking with me and he didn't even scream or throw a pillow at me...I know I would have (aren't double standards great!)
• got Carson "boclate" breakfast drink
• hauled a mattress and broken wagon out to the curb
• called the garbage department to find out if I can put a sectional sofa by the curb...the answer is "yes" but only 1 big item a week (it will take me 5 weeks to get rid of the sofa)
• went to my doctor's appointment...she hinted strongly that I should give up sugar...I can see the headline now "mom of 5 goes crazy after giving up sugar"...maybe summer vacation isn't the best time to do that
• bought a pattern to make Emily a new nightgown (she liked Kinsey's so much)...ugh...more sewing!
• learned that Emily can start a fire with a magnifying glass and a leaf and she likes the smell (should I be worried?)

• learned a new song from Emily

Now the positive:

• now that I have put the song in your head it will leave mine
• I went shopping and bought myself something new
• I enjoyed the walk...it was a great way to start the day with my hubby
• I made banana bread yesterday so I had some for breakfast
• I had a shower and fixed my hair
• Carson is working on his fine motor strength (by squirting a water bottle at me)
• I don't have to go anywhere else today

I know it's only 2:oo, but that's enough trauma and positive thinking for the day. I think I'll go to bed now. If I have started a new pattern, I'll be awake at 2:30 am tomorrow.

How I Spent My Summer Vacation - Day 1

• woke up at 6:30 am
• finished sewing the pioneer dresses, bonnets, pantaloons, apron and nightgown
• panicked because I couldn't get the bonnets to work right
• called my mom and begged her to make the bonnets in exchange for free babysitting
• She said "yes" I said "wow" she said "when" I said "how about right now"
• Oh sorry...that's a country song...she just sighed heavily and said yes.
• helped Kinsey pack for her trip
• took Kinsey to her friend's house
• cleaned up the sewing explosion
• picked Kinsey up from her friend's house
• took Chris to band practice
• took Kinsey to airport
• said "yes Carson?" a million times when he said "mommeeeeeeeee" screechingly
• heard a lot of "no, momeee, noooooooooooooooo!!!"
• told Emily she could go to a friend's house (forgot to ask which friend, where she lives, phone #)
• oops...she called an hour later to let me know she got there safely
• told Jared he could go to friend's house
• 5:06 pm Chris comes running down the stairs yelling "mom, you were supposed to take me somewhere at 5 (his eyes say "you idiot mom, you are supposed to remind me!")
• rush to take him, hoping they haven't left yet
• Gary comes home takes Carson to Chick-fil-a for some emma-ade
• I lock the doors really fast because the house is blissfully quiet
• Emily rings the doorbell 5 minutes later...darn, peace is gone
• everyone comes home, I fall asleep in the chair

Now...to focus on the positive:

• Kinsey made it safely to Florida - no hijackers, plane crashes, giant fat men taking up 2 1/2 seats smelling like smoke or b.o. and getting drunk
• Carson played in our little pool for a very long time...he loves his pool...the best $20 I ever spent
• I finished the pioneer wardrobe
• Chris was being taken out to dinner because he memorized all of the scripture mastery scriptures for seminary this year
• Carson had fun playing in the playland at Chick-fil-a
• Carson doesn't know that when someone says "he talks funny" to be insulted...he loves them anyway (the someone was 4 and his parents were mortified)
• Emily got to play at a friend's house
• Jared got to play at a friend's house
• I had a nice, hot bubble bath and a few minutes of peace

I can't wait for day 2

Pioneer Mothers Cursed As They Sewed

My daughter Kinsey is leaving on a jet plane tomorrow. I feel the same way about planes that I do about doctor visits. Oh noooooo...what if it crashes. I have not had time to worry about that yet though, because the only thing I can think about right now are pioneer clothes. Why, you ask?

Kinsey has not pulled up roots yet. Her heart is still in Florida so when her old bishop asked if she wanted to go on their pioneer trek she said "I don't know, I might sweat" and then decided to go. I was the lucky one to draw the sewing of the clothes. Yes...I sew. I stink at sewing, but yes, I sew. Please don't tell anyone.

I have been making dresses, pantaloons, bonnets, aprons, and a nightgown for what seems like weeks. I'm over the pioneer clothes. I feel like I'm sewing for Goldilocks. The first dress was too tight, the second dress was too big, hopefully third time's just right! I haven't finished it yet. Should I be worried? It is 11:30pm on the day before she leaves and I am sitting here blogging instead of sewing. I had to. It was that or throw the sewing machine out the window.

Pioneer mothers cursed as they sewed and sewed and sewed and sewed.
Pioneer mothers cursed as they sewed and sewed and sewed and sewed.
Husbands came home, talked and said nothing much
Then late at night she said "don't touch"
Week after week she cursed as she longed for a trip but all she did was sew.

I think I might be a bit on the hormonal side too. I have told my husband many times that he says too many words when he is telling me something. "Tell me what you want, what you really really want." Yes, I sang that. Doesn't he know I am busy. I don't have time for a conversation. I just want to tell him to hush and not call me again! Not nice, I know.

Does anyone have any chocolate? I think I need some!