Spring Break...good times...

So it's over. You know how you kind of don't look forward to going back to school and 'normal' life, that's where I am. I don't mind doing things with my kids or having them around. I see the importance of their education both at school and the other activities: piano, sports, work etc. It's just nice to have a break from that for a week!

Monday Timo had to work since he missed Friday for a scout camp out and didn't have time Saturday either. Once he and Tim got home we were going to go to Salt Lake City to see the new City Creek Mall across from Temple Square--stores like Tiffany's and H & M and Godiva Chocolates and of course the Disney Store, Maceys, Nordstrom as well. I am not sure how many stores we only went to a few. Anyway, as we were leaving we noticed the engine temperature going up. So I warned my sister whom we were picking up that we were going to need to put water in it when we got there. We had forgotten to do it earlier--I knew that it needed it. After filling it extensively we set off. It was still weird so Tim decided to not drive it. Teresa offered to drive her truck and we drove Tim's car. We had exactly enough seats. Emily had been hanging with her friend Kassie and she came along--Taran was in school still. So Teresa took her riders and headed up then we went home and traded cars. We parked at the lot north of Energy Solutions Arena since we were planning on going to the Jazz game that night. She headed over to the ticket office as soon as she got there. She had got a TWEET for tickets for $10 each! With all the fees they ended up $15 each but we got a hot dog with that so pretty cool! We arrived just after she got them so we met at the TRAX station and headed up to the mall. It's huge as you can imagine. I think it's somewhat modeled after Denver's big mall with a bridge that links it. We split up and had a meeting place and time. Some headed to Footlocker and Fannz, Teresa and I went to J Jill and then all but Em and Kassie at the Disney Store, then a toy store not sure of it's name then back. Teresa headed into Macey's then she caught up with me at H & M. I found this store nicer than the one in NYC. It had some cute inexpensive clothes for Em and Gwen that I got. I didn't have time to get to the boys section! Another day. At that point Tim had had it with Izak and Micah for not listening to him and playing on the escalator--like they have never seen one! It was a beautiful day and the mall was so fun since it's open and outdoors--parts have a retractable roof that can be used during inclement weather. We headed back to the arena to get in and get our dinner before the game started. We were 3 separate sections for better seating possibilities. I took all the girls for the 4 ticket group. I knew Tim would be frustrated if he had to take Gwen to the bathroom or whatever during the game. We left about every 4 minutes to do something. She was great, really but I knew she wouldn't sit through a whole game without moving--it was the price I was willing to pay to go to the game! I hadn't been to one in years. This was Gwen, Zane and Micah's first Jazz game. It was an exciting game and the Jazz won so we were all super happy! I almost lost my voice. All the kids in our car fell asleep on the way home. I had brought Gwen's pjs knowing it was going to be late getting home.

Tuesday I went to the temple and it was not busy I did 10 names instead of 5 in an hour! When I got out my mom had called and we figured out would be our best chance at good weather at the Thanksgiving Point Gardens Tulip Festival. It was Taran's birthday so we had to go during the day. I met Teresa, my sister-in-law Katie and her kids and my mom. We brought our neighbor Spencer. We had a picnic part way through. It was beautiful and a great outing too bad I forgot to sunscreen myself! Double burn on my forehead! This definitely the earliest I have seen the tulips up and trees and bushes without blossoms yet! Usually it's the other way around. It was still beautiful. We got home around 2 PM. Timo almost came with but did home work and went to a friends not long after we got home. Zane had gotten car sick on our way home and threw up right when we got home. So after I got that cleaned up and him in a nap and Gwen I went and got the stuff for Taran's birthday. He wanted Papa Murphy's Pizza, strawberries and watermelon...all things I had to get NOT at our little Walmart. I got home around 5:30 PM, the kids helped me decorate, and set the table etc. So we were ready when Tim got home with him. Tim had dropped off some cold cereal and PopTarts the day before for his breakfast. His gift was money and a big box of mini-chicken tacos and beef taquitos--easy food for finals week! We also let him take the leftover pizza and watermelon and cookies. He had chocolate chip pan cookies with ice cream and toppings. After dinner he wanted to shoot hoops with the family before eating dessert. His friend Breton came over and joined our little gathering, then Timo's friend Tyler also joined in. We also got a visit from a group of Timo's friends in the green sweatsuits from the 70s--classic eh? Two of the boys are brothers and were at their Grandpa's and they found them and he told them he had more that they could have if they found them, and they did! Funny! Breton has a cool app that reverses stuff and so Tim filmed them doing stuff and then they would put it in reverse, pretty cool! He posted them on Facebook and tagged Taran, Timo and Tim if you want to see them. Then we did the cookie and ice cream stuff. Then Taran's other friend in the neighborhood who is still around, Andrew, came over and they jammed. Breton joined in too, he was in the original band. It was fun but late and Tim drove him back to Provo that night. He got home at midnight! Luckily he was taking Wednesday off. Taran's roommates stormed his room at midnight Monday night to tickle him and celebrate--a tradition I guess. He got some scars in the process of trying to prevent it! Owell. He that when he got home on his birthday night so around 11:30 PM they watched a movie! To be a crazy college student...

Wednesday we tried to sleep in a little. We had decided to do a hike. I wanted to try a new hike I heard about last year but we didn't end up going there ever. But Tim was nervous about the van so we went to Battlecreek Falls. Micah had his friend Luke and the other kids didn't get anyone home--a lot of people were in St. George from our neighborhood. The hike was nice and easy. The kids had fun. It was another beautiful day. As we were returning home it started to get overcast and we had decided to go swimming at an indoor pool for the afternoon. I was beat. So I didn't get in but I was there to take Gwen to the bathroom. Emily and Timo ditched us for friends. Which is fine! Swimming was crowded but about half the people left when they made everyone get out so they could check the pool. They do that every 1-1/2 hours so we left just before the next time. The kids were tired so Timo watched them while we went to BYU to watch Taran in his choir concert--he took University Chorale a non-audition choir class. Emily went to a movie with friends. We enjoyed the concert and my aunt Leslie who taught Taran preschool came too! It was fun to visit with her. Taran came up here after because his friend Travis was getting his mission call--he had to work so he didn't open it until 10:30 PM. He is going to Capetown South Africa, and to the MTC there! He has my same birthday so I have a sweet spot in my heart for him!

Thursday was stormy so we had a stay home movie day. I had checked the dollar movies and nothing was too appealing so I rented Mr. Popper's Penguins and HUGO. I also had offered to take the youngest kids to Orange Leaf a frozen yogurt place since I 'owed' them for doing their swimming so well during their lessons. Well, Emily had a bunch of her buddies over they were planning their Hunger Games for the next day so they didn't want to miss out so I took Gwen and her friend Sophie. We had a nice time, aren't they cute?
Then we went home to watch movies. We saved HUGO for when Tim was home. We ended up feeding a few of Emily's friends for dinner. I don't mind if I know and since they were around most of the day I figured there would be some staying over for dinner. I enjoyed HUGO it was a touching story, not so much heart wrenching but tender. I did cry but that means nothing I cry when the Jazz win. Mr. Popper's Penguins was cute. Mind you we watched them on Clearplay so if there was something inappropriate it was edited. Timo spent most the day getting ready for his Foreign Language Fair at BYU the next day. They decorate shirts they wear and practice their skits...

Friday Timo had to be at the school at 7 AM and since we are his alarm Tim had to get him up. Tim worked a half day. Anna and Buck brought June so they could go to the temple. She is crawling and standing really well and we've heard she can walk too! Emily's friends started coming over at 10 AM for their Hunger Games. They had a lot of fun. I would have taken pictures but she would have been MORTIFIED! When Tim got home we had lunch and then made a plan. Originally we had planned to go to the Muslim Exhibit at the BYU Art Museum but since Timo and Emily weren't going to make it we decided to go another day when everyone could go. We decided to go to the BYU Hall of Legends and see if they had Jimmer's awards there. They did and the tour guide said that they have more they haven't put in a display yet! We opted for the tour and he took us into the weight room--where the stuffed cougar photo was taken. And other places we normally wouldn't get to see. It was super fun. We grabbed a drink at BK and headed down to pick up the Espinoza cousins. We were going to go to the Creamery but the tour took longer than we had planned. We picked up 3 of the boy cousins and headed home, beating the rush! I ran to Walmart and got some food for dinner and breakfast. I had planned on some food I had in the freezer but alas we gave that to some of Emily's friends and the kids earlier that day. They played with the swords and stuff that some Emily's friends had left--see boys with weapons. They also played basketball for awhile. Once it got dark they headed in and watched Johnny English 1 which they loved! Then Emily and Maddie watched the rest of Emma and then Sherlock Holmes. Giovanni came when Shellie picked up Diego and he watched Sherlock Holmes with them.

Saturday they got up way earlier than we had hoped! They fed the chickens Micah is watching for a family out of town. Then they played basketball and watched Johnny English 2. Tim and I weeded while the sun was out. We made lots of headway! Maddie had flute lessons so she left early. Izak got invited to go to the Salt Lake City Temple and then to City Creek after with his friend Bryson and his sisters (they are triplets). He had a lot of fun. (They changed into street clothes after the temple). After all the cousins left we did chores. Emily went to Classic Skating with her friends--it was her friend Emily's birthday. Timo and friends got together to plan their Senior classes together and then whatever. Once we got the chores done we took the four little kids to IKEA. We have a couple of little projects we wanted to get some ideas about. We had dinner there and then looked around. We actually got stuff so Tim has some MORE stuff to do! We got home just in time for baths and bedtime! They actually loved trying out things at IKEA and they weren't annoying until the end. We stopped at Orange Leaf as you can see on our way home. so Gwen and I got double treats! After we got home, I ran to Walmart and get milk--always have to do it! I got some lucky purchases that I actually needed, tender mercy! I folded towels and sheets while watching the BYU Mens Volleyball game.

Today Tim had bishopric meetings 6 AM until 9 AM. Timo and I had BYC at 9 AM. The little boys had children's choir at 11 AM and Tim, Timo, Emily and Izak had choir at 12:15 PM. By then Gwen was acting like she wasn't feeling well and she was warm. I sent Micah and Zane to church on their own. Tim called me and we set up the trade off since I needed to be there for Young Womens. I am bummed I missed the choirs since it was their Easter songs. I did read some great articles in the Ensign I hadn't gotten to yet. She seemed to feel better after her nap. She was still lethargic but after dinner and her bath she was feeling much better. Izak taught our devotional from his Duty to God. It was good, it was about the importance of reading the scriptures. After that they went to bed. We are all tired and not ready for the normal week ahead with a new session of swimming, play practices, piano, soccer and homework! Taran finishes up BYU this week and will be moving back Friday. He has had a great year and enjoyed himself. We are proud of all he has accomplished this year and so glad for the experiences he's had! School will be over for the other kids in 6 weeks. He will leave on his mission in just over 7 weeks. His buddy Andrew gets his call Tuesday! Fun times. Have a great week! Happy Spring!

Easter happenings...

So it's late...let's see if I can really scale back this post!

Monday I went to my parents' so my mom could go get her haircut, Gwen had swimming right after and then dance right after that, yes a busy day for her! Micah and Zane had a special Science Show down at BYU that a professor was doing for Cub Scouts from his neighborhood so he invited our part of Cedar Hills. They loved it. That night we watched the NCAA National Championship for FHE--a late night in the end. Zane won our family bracket challenge. I had a pathetic showing.

Tuesday I went to the temple early since my Visiting Teachers were coming earlier since I was going to the Endodontist at 10 AM. Somehow it all fit in. Then I went to Costco then Walmart. I got stuff done just in time to get Gwen. I went to the Endodontist because I have an infection in my gum, it might be from my sinus infection the week before went in and infected that tooth! Bummer but he gave me a prescription. I am doing a lot better--my cheek was totally swollen and my teeth hurt to eat. That afternoon was piano and then that night was Micah's 4th grade program. Just Tim and I went since the school had asked to leave students home who had seen it earlier in the day. This is the largest age group at the school so it was packed. We were happy to be the only ones going! It was super cute and all about Utah. He got to be 'Modern Utah'--a Jazz Fan! I videoed a couple of songs.
That night Tim and our ward mens basketball team won the championship! He was pretty happy about that of course!


Wednesday June didn't come since her Grandma is visiting from North Carolina! We missed her but ended up busy. Izak had N.O.V.A. graduation which replaced the old DARE program. I had my mom pick up Gwen and her friend Luke, drop Luke off and stay with Gwen at our house. It was the only way I could figure it out with the timing. Izak ended up getting a very special award the Super Nova, Emily got it too. The officer chose one student from each class, mostly based on them being kind to others. I was pretty excited for him--funny thing is 3 of the 5 kids chosen were from our neighborhood. The other 2 kids are part of a triplet so 2 from one family! After the graduation Gwen and I tried to go to the funeral for our neighbor's mother who had died Sunday. The Google directions were wrong. Owell, I talked to her and let her know. Apparently I wasn't the only one who got lost. I took Gwen home and fed her lunch and then we went to the store. I had told her I would take her to Target after the funeral so she could purchase some sandals--high heel sandals she wanted me to buy. I had already bought her some pink ones so I told she could get them with her own money of she really wanted them, so she did after we got home and counted her money! After that we went by my friend whose daughter was the terrible car accident and still hanging on, to visit. I had meant to go sooner but with getting sick and being behind not too long after it happened. I have kept in touch via computer so not a complete slacker. It was a tender visit. My friend is amazing and I know that she can handle this challenge if anyone can. I love her and her family and feel so sad that they have to endure this trial. I got home in time for the kids. Emily had play practice that day so I picked her up. That night we had Taran's BYU's Got Talent. He and his little band. They did so great! We were so proud of them! They were definitely top 3 in the competition and got the 2nd loudest cheers which was suppose to be part of it. Taran and the band weren't disappointed that they didn't place but we were! My sister and mom came besides some of the band members family members and Taran's roommates and some friends from work and his ward. He felt the love! We went to the Creamery after. Timo missed out since the Priests were going scuba diving in a private pool near Salt Lake City. He was nervous and almost came with us but in the end his sense of duty won out and he went. He had a great time. He is one of the 2 kids in our family who could do it--Micah is the other. Everyone else has had too many ear infections. As it was he still felt some pain.

Thursday was Gwen's preschool Easter Party. She had to take 12 filled eggs, she chose to fill them with Starbursts. She got to bring home 12. She made a bunny out of a milk carton. Here she is with hers and with her buddy Luke. They mostly played outside riding scooters unfortunately she hit a seam on the sidewalk when they were racing and biffed it just as he was getting ready to leave. I made some cookies I found on Pinterest in between checking on them! I had her take a nap when he left because she had been up super late the night before. She was feeling a lot better after she woke up. The boys were good about being quiet. Thursday we had a couple of soccer games and Gwen had practice. She was sore from her scooter fall so we bailed on that. Emily had to be picked up and Micah and Izak needed dropping off all around 5 PM. So I took Gwen and Zane with. When I went home with Emily Tim drove up and then Timo so I was able to leave Gwen and Zane with them. I went to Micah's game and he played well but they lost, barely! They had dominated but with one minute left the other team went ahead and after a couple of scoring tries they lost. He was bummed and tired out from the night before so he went to bed early. Emily reffed that night and Izak went to his soccer game even though he can walk he has another week until he can run. Tim got us all pizza for dinner even though I had marinated chicken I realized later that I wouldn't be home to prepare it. I had a meeting at 7:15 PM--YW Presidency PPI. After Tim helped me print out the roles for the next 4 months and reserve the DVD player for Sunday--I was teaching.

Friday was a little crazy, Gwen and I went to Walmart to get a treat for Izak's class for their Spring Party even though the weather was SNOW! It was so cold! I was going to get Popsicles but Izak didn't like that idea with snow on the ground! So I got donuts. Another mom did some games and they were pretty fun--the kids LOVED them! I had played Wink 'em but the other game Camel-Palmtree-Elephant was super funny! After an hour we went home. That afternoon the kids wanted to color eggs. After I boiled one batch I broke half of them! So I did some more and made egg salad with the rest! The kids (minus Timo who had left on a camp out to the Lavatubes camping) We had a fun visit with Breton, Taran's friend who stopped by to chat. He wants to play Tim in tennis, Tim is ready! I had rented Puss In Boots for the kids and 3 Musketeers for Tim and I. Emily ended up at a friend's, Micah and Izak ended up at a friend's also. So Zane and Gwen watched it. Tim and I watched the 3 Musketeers after they were all in bed. We enjoyed the movie but like the old version better overall.

Saturday Gwen had a soccer game at 9 AM and Zane had one at 9:30 AM. I took Gwen and she was great! I was so proud of her! She didn't score but she was in on it and kicked the ball at least 15 times. Micah and Izak came and were cheering her on. After Gwen showered and the boys did their Saturday chores. I dropped Emily off to referee. Tim and Zane got home and we left shortly after that for BYU. Charl and Katie met us there and it was a crazy time but fun. Zane was the most disappointed that he only got candy and some player cards. They had 20 eggs with BYU football vouchers and locker room tours! They said that there were 5, 000 kids signed up (we got an email about it and had to RSVP), not a lot of chances to win! We got free tickets to the baseball game so we went to that and watched 2 innings. They were probably the best 2 innings to watch! Seriously, we left after they took a 2 run lead and it was into the 8 inning. We bought lunch there--very simple a Hot Dog and drinks! It was a lot of fun and I am glad that we saw the best part of the game since the kids only lasted that long. The kids and Tim got their picture taken with Cosmo. Then we went to my mom's for an Easter Egg hunt, she also had a soccer ball/pinata so the kids kicked it until the candy came out. Very fun! Then we came home Tim got Weed-N-Feed, and worked in the yard. I had him grill the marinated chicken. It was delicous! After dinner I went and got several errands done. I got back around 8 PM. I worked on burning the music and videos to CD/ DVD respectively for my lesson. Emily had friends here and they watched Tommy Boy edited. Timo had made it home safe from his camp out and had gone to hang out that night with neighbor kids. I had lots of little things that kept me up until 1:30 AM! Crazy I know!

Today I woke up around 7:30 AM and started reading my scriptures. It is always a great blessing when I get to read to start the day! I got more done today than ever possible. The Savior is real and I know he will take care of us if we turn to him!
The Easter Bunny came while we were at church since it was Fast Sunday. My lesson was alright, I actually did a Personal Progress Experience since there wasn't an 'Easter Lesson" like Primary! I showed some videos about Jesus Christ to start. Then split them into 3 groups to read the scriptures, write in their Personal Progress Journal and share their feelings about what their Savior has done for them. One group didn't seem to really get into it as much as the other two so next time I decide to use that technique I will split them up into 6 groups. My main goal was to help the girls feel the love of their Savior and Heavenly Father. I used 2 awesome quotes by Elder Bednar and Elder Holland. We had my parents and sister over for dinner--Taran came too of course! It was a great time. We had ham and chicken with many sides. My sister brought rolls and my mom made dessert. We watched the videos on lds.org about Easter Sunday after dinner. We also watched a couple of family home videos I just got back from Costco! It was a fun time! We are sorry it didn't pan out to have a Pew gathering but family gatherings are enjoyable whatever side we visit with. I am so grateful to know that Jesus Christ lives and that through Him I can overcome not only death but my sins, and other challenges. It is a very tender thing to know His love for us personally and it is very empowering as well!

Now I am going to bed!!! We have Spring Break starting this week! Very exciting! Have a great week!

Back to normal...almost

Monday we went to my parents' and I went to through the rest of my dad's slides with him. There are only about 20 he didn't recognize so I hope his siblings will know something about them. Tim and I started a Family History class on Sunday so I felt motivated to finish this project. He hasn't felt well so I haven't pushed it but he was feeling okay enough to do it. Now to get them all scanned! We just send them off to Costco. Gwen had dance so we left early enough to get back for that and pick up Zoe. It was earlier out day so the kids were home when we left for dance. It was nice NOT to have to take Timo to physical therapy. I was able to do the grocery shopping at Walmart once everything was under control at home. For Family Home Evening we went to the high school musical Once Upon a Mattress. Tim was in it in high school and Timo got extra credit for going so we decided to go. The kids loved it, it was very funny and the cast was amazing, really! We get a high quality show for a decent price. It was long so it made for a late night but Zane and Gwen were bathed and had their pjs on already. One more thing I forgot, Emily found out that day after school that she won for student council Vice President for next yr at the jr high! We were a little surprised but glad! The teacher in charge told those who won that he had observed them in the halls and saw how they interacted with others. He also told Emily that she had gotten not only the most votes but she had great feedback from her teachers and he said she had great people skills in the interview. So one of our kids has social skills, that's good to hear. We are excited for her but know it's going to make her very busy...she has decided not to take AP Geography now. It's the only AP class you can take as a 9th grader with Concert Singers and Musical Theater she is going to be plenty busy after school. We know the time commitment because Timo took it.

Tuesday I was suppose to attend the YW meetings in Salt Lake City. Izak and Zane were not feeling well enough for me to leave but not very sick overall. Yes that was frustrating. I ended up getting caught up on the laundry which barely got done last week so instead of feeling sorry for myself I thought this is time that I can do those things I couldn't get to the week before. It was a blessing really. Micah ended up being the only one going to piano because Emily had play practice. Pack meeting was that night and Zane missed it too. Tim and I went, Micah's den did the flag ceremony. He also earned 2 pins. Later that night Tim had a Mens Basketball game, they won. Then he was up until 2:30 AM working. That is why he didn't take the kids to the temple the next day.

Wednesday everyone was better so that was good. I watched June which was super fun since we missed having her last week. She fell asleep just before Anna got here so she took her home that way. I took Izak to 7th grade Orientation at the Jr High. Emily had play practice and then as a new student council person had to be at Orientation so I had to go get her after both sessions were done. I was able to farm out Gwen, Zane and Micah to friends. Izak had scouts right after, they went to Space Camp. He had a 'blast'. Micah had a game and Tim went straight to that from work I was at orientation. Emily had YW they had a modesty fashion show, they made clothes out of stuff and modeled them. Tim went to the high school for a state core curriculum meeting and a special discussion about drugs etc and suicide at the high school. I was going to go but stayed with the kids. I wanted him to hear about the core stuff since I had already studied it some. There have been some deaths this year at the high school and drugs were part of it. The other issue is that these kids had mental illness. It is really sad. Tim said that the parents spoke about their children. I don't know how they could do it. I have felt very strongly lately that most of our education and community problems come from the home. I don't blame these parents for their childrens deaths but I cam shocked to hear at least one set of parents said that they had no idea the kid was taking drugs. Anyway we seem to want to find answers outside, more money or more this blah, blah is needed for education. We need give more training to teachers to notice signs of suicide...really in a class of 30 kids the teacher is going to pick up on this? Is this the responsibility of teachers? I feel like we as parents need to be aware of changes in our children. And in many cases parents do know and have tried many things and still the child takes their life. This is not their fault. I don't think it's anyone's fault when a child has a mental illness and many things have been tried. It is just so sad and my heart aches for these parents. We should be involved in their learning, are they getting the education they need. We need to be the change. We need to initiate change in our schools and districts when they aren't teaching. It's our own fault if we sit back and let them be undereducated without putting up a fight or helping them prepare on own if they aren't getting it at school. Yes, it takes effort but what are we doing as parents if we aren't doing these things for our kids.
Okay, enough of that.

Thursday Gwen had a field trip for preschool so I had extra time I went to the temple. I was done soon enough to go to Costco after. Luke came over after and they played outside most of the day since it was a beautiful day. That afternoon Zane and Izak had their last swimming lessons. They have made great improvement. I am hoping to do one more session for them before summer. Then we picked up Emily after swimming lessons. Zane had soccer practice after that. Then Gwen had soccer practice. I had a baby shower that I was bringing a dessert to at 6:30 PM. I dropped my dessert (mini fruit pizzas) before the shower and came later. I ended up staying awhile and helping clean up. It was nice to be out and social.

Friday Gwen had her friend Sophie over most of the day. She even went to swimming lessons with us. Gwen is also swimming great. She has a make up lesson Monday from when the teacher was gone for a State Swim Meet. I made a treat to take to my mission reunion. I dropped Micah off at a friends out of the neighborhood. Then I had to get Emily and friends from play practice, Gwen went with me while the other boys were at friends. Tim was so late he got home after 6 PM. My reunion was at 6:30 PM in Salt Lake City. Our roads are under construction and very busy. I was listening to the radio while driving around--I was in the car over and hour because I ended up picking up Timo after dropping of Emily and friends. Then we picked up Micah. They said that it was bad so I decided that if Tim couldn't get home soon I wouldn't go. My President is from Uruguay but is serving in the Quorum of Seventy for a couple more years so we want everyone to come see him since there won't be many more chances. Right after I got home with Timo and Micah my mom drove up, with Taran! It was a big surprise. He decided to come home for conference. I felt like I couldn't go to my reunion then either since he was here. My sister Teresa had called the night before and we had talked about her taking the kids to this pizza place with her coupon and some free meal coupons we had. So once Tim showed up we decided to all go! It was fun and a nice consolation.
One of Timo's friends came with, it was his first time and he enjoyed it.
I got the little kids to do their chores so they wouldn't have to do them Saturday during conference. Taran and a few of his buddies hung out and had a lot of fun. Timo hung out with them a little with his friends too. Izak bought a new Ipod Nano with his birthday money and was getting it all set up. Later Taran and Timo and some of their friends watched Johnny English 2--pretty funny!

Saturday Izak and Micah had soccer games during Conference. Izak's was in Provo. Micah's was close. I took Micah to his game and Tim went straight there from Izak's game. Micah scored in his game. I only missed part of one talk when I took him. After the second session Saturday Emily refereed Zane's game so we went to it. Unfortunately the other team was rude to Emily as she refereed--I even yelled at them from my side for it. People get so worked up these are 8 yr olds in rec soccer! The referees are to help teach the kids and to help train referees but the more kids have these incidents the less they want to referee! The some of the parents on our team pressured the coach to apologize to Emily--she was crying. The coach of our team in one of the league VPs so he chatted with the coach after. He called her later to check how she was--that was really nice. She was fine after that game her next game she had a great experience and the referee she reffed with was better at calling his side loudly. She said that he apologized for not calling his side loud enough so they got made at her. Meanwhile Tim, Taran, Timo and Izak went to dinner and Priesthood session of conference. They had a great experience and we met up with them at his parents after. We had rootbeer floats and visited. It was a fun late night!

Today was conference and it was great day. We had lots of yummy food to try and keep us awake:) One of our neighbors brought us cinnamon rolls! I printed out some stuff for the younger kids but they only used it the first session. Anna and Buck dropped off June right at the end of the first session. She took a nap shortly after that. Then woke up for the last session of conference. We tried to meet our new neighbors in between sessions but they weren't home. It was cold and windy! (Timo stayed with June.) Erin came and hung out for the second session. After that session we went to my parents' and she took June to Anna's to wait for them--they had gone to the Conference Center to watch the second session with Buck's family who were in town! We had a fun visit at my mom's and a yummy dinner. We took Taran back to BYU after that then on home. It was bit late. But there you go! I loved conference but I feel like I especially needed the talks on Saturday, like they spoke to me more. I still enjoyed all of them, of course. I look forward to reading them!

Happy Palm Sunday! Have a great week! We have Spring Break next week so I am excited for the break!!!!

A lost week for mom...

So the title is giving you a clue about this week, I got the flu! That's what get for not getting the shot! Anyway, it didn't happen until Tuesday.

Monday, I went to my parents'. Micah had woken up with a cough so he came with. I had a nice visit with my dad while my mom ran errands which she took Gwen on one. We went straight to Walmart to get a poster for Micah to make for scouts. Why he didn't remember on Saturday--I guess I was gone so it wouldn't have mattered! We picked up Izak and Zane so Izak didn't have to walk home with his crutches. Anyhow, I took Timo to his PT appointment and then to work. Tim was able to pick him up when he was done. We had a wonderful time at the Ashford an assisted living place for people with Dementia and Alzheimer's. Emily goes there on Fridays to sing for them so she was excited we were all going. The kids were a little nervous but by the end all but Gwen had settled in and enjoyed themselves. My friend Stephanie organizes it and asked if we wanted a turn and for sure we did! We need that! It was so touching to hear them sing I Am A Child of God with us. I had a hard time praying after that. Zane taught the lesson, for his Faith in God he shared a story about faith in Jesus Christ from the Book of Mormon and then he was suppose to share his testimony. Just as he started one of the residents cut him off and ended it 'In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen." It was pretty funny and Zane has retold that to anyone who will hear him tell it. The Gwen, Izak, Emily and Timo played the piano for them--Emily sung with her song. We shared our FHE treats with them. It was a great experience and we look forward to doing it again!

Tuesday I woke up with a cough, Micah's cough actually was more lose but it sounded bad so we kept him home. I ended up staying home instead of going to the temple, I am glad I did. I was thinking of the sweet old ladies getting this cough. Well, I got worse. Emily called me because she had started to feel bad at school--same thing. I picked her up. After I dropped her off I decided to go to Costco since we needed some things from there but I really wasn't feeling very well. I knew Tim would hate missing a beautiful day to play tennis at lunch and would hate to have to find some of the new things I was going to get! I survived! I picked up Gwen then dropped her off at home and picked up Izak and Zane from school. The kids had piano so they all went but Micah--Emily felt okay enough and had missed the week before for the Drama Meet. Zane had scouts after piano. After I had done some stuff with the kids and their homework I went to bed. Something woke me up at 4 so I got going on dinner. Tim went with Timo over to Taran's friend who got his mission call that night so he came up and stopped by after. His friend is also going to Mexico, Chihuahua! Tim's grandpa was born there!

Wednesday I felt achy all over but a little better. I thought I might have a fever so I didn't have June. I am glad I didn't because I did. I slept until I picked up Gwen and Luke. I dropped him off. Gwen watched PBS kids while I slept. I woke up after 2 hours! I got her lunch, I ate and showered and piddled around until I had to get the kids at school. Then I took Timo to PT. I stayed in the van after I paid for the co-pay. I read and coughed and rested. Then I dropped him off at work and went home. Tim tried to get home early enough to take Timo but it didn't happen. I tried to find Timo's wallet so he could drive himself but I couldn't. Tim made dinner thank heavens for dino nuggets from Costco I had bought eons ago! After we got the kids in bed Tim took me to the after-hours and I had a sinus infection and an ear infection! Complications of the flu. We got the meds and came home. Tim stayed home Thursday I slept most of the day. He went to high school twice for Timo (pay for AP testing and tickets to the school musical). He took Gwen and Luke to the duck pond and then Mc Donalds after. They had a lot of fun. Tim took Izak and Zane to swimming lessons. Emily had play practice. Tim got her after the boys swimming lessons. My mom brought us dinner. She knows Tim hates to cook. It was delicious! And a huge blessing. By evening I could tell my fever had broke. I was weak but I felt better. Timo asked his friend to the Prom right after work--he'd heard someone else was going to ask her soon. So he did it right away. Tim went to bed early because he was going to the Midnight Showing of The Hunger Games. Emily had been invited to see it with friends Friday but we like to screen PG 13 for our kids. I didn't want to see it. He had read the books and told me the whole story and I just didn't think I could handle it as books or a movie. Timo had a paper due the next day and had to be on the computer until late. We also need to be in the room with our kids when they use the internet. Yes, we have filters, but still we feel we need to still be HERE. So instead of going to bed at a decent hour I stayed up until he finished. I re-lasped the next day.

So Tim stayed home Friday. He had decided that Emily could see the movie so she was happy. I was so bummed that I was worse than Thursday. I hurt, not ached. I slept most of the day again. Tim took Gwen to her swimming lessons. He took Timo to his PT appointment--the last one! Then he went to get Emily after school--she was suppose to stay late to find out who won for student council. She ended up not finding out so she got on the bus in time. Supposedly Monday they will tell! My mom got some flowers for Emily for me. I wanted her to know how proud we were of her for being so brave, win or lose! My mom also brought frozen pizza the kids favorite! She took Gwen back with her so we could make sure Gwen was at her dance recital on time. It was in Orem and with Tim having to pick up Timo from work we weren't sure (but we were right) we'd make it by 6:30 PM when she was suppose to be there. Emily and her friends made t-shirts for the movie. I made myself shower and go even though I still felt bad. We left them and took Izak, Micah and Zane to Gwen's dance recital. We only stayed for her part--the very first demonstration. She was darling and was really good! The little boys complimented her. She was so proud! My mom also got flowers for her for us! Lifesaver! We took the kids to Walmart to rent a movie at Redbox and get them a treat (and other things we actually NEEDED). We rented Tin Tin. They loved it. I only saw a little. We had found out that Tim might need to pick up Emily and some of the kids after the movie so we went to bed as soon as Tin Tin movie was over. I was working on my CERT test homework during the movie. I had totally forgotten about it. We had told Timo to come on and lock the door when he was done because we were going to bed. He had seen a little bit of Paranormalcy so he was freaked and slept in our room that night! Another dad picked up the kids but I woke up at about 1:30 AM and unlocked the door--Timo had locked it and I thought Emily might have trouble waking us up if she couldn't get in.

Saturday Timo had a meeting he had to cook for at 6:30 AM so Tim got him up at 6:15 PM. I had CERT at 8 AM. Tim drove me there. Izak had a party at 10:30 AM and one of his friend's mom's took him there--it was at Space Camp! They can't get enough of that! From there he went with the boys on his soccer team to their game in Orem, which they won. He was glad to go and we want him to go to all the games even though he can't play yet. I survived our CERT drill. I actually learned a lot but I was not as alert as I would have liked! But now I can feel a tiny bit more prepared in an event...they told us to come practice as much as we can to get more confidence. I am not sure how Tim would feel about that right now! Maybe next year! I slept when I got home, best I could. Tim took Micah to soccer practice. After he picked him up I ran an errand. I rested until I took Emily to dinner before the YW Broadcast. We went to the Blue Lemon, Tim and I like going there. She has never been. She ordered the salmon BLT, I felt like having soup so I got the Butternut...mmmm. We had fun. She talked about the movie the Hunger Games, she liked it. Then we went to the broadcast. We looked for Maddie her cousin who was in the choir singing. I am sure we saw her but didn't realize it. It was a great broadcast, of course. Then the Stake YW leaders had ice cream with toppings for a treat after. It was really fun. We were home by 8 PM even after talking with other moms and girls. Timo was answered--the banana photo. The door knocked and he opened it. A big box was on our porch, out popped a Gorilla with a banana which he handed to Timo. Then he ran off--wild! Timo seemed unphased but it did startle me.
He found the paper in the banana after he peeled it. Pretty wild. He hung out with some friends in the kitchen for a little bit until bedtime. (I think they had been outside playing basketball). Emily had gone to a friend's for a little after we got back. Tim and I had a mini-date--returning the Redbox and stuff.

Today I wasn't sure I'd make it to church. I stayed in bed awhile. I did work on scouts with Zane and Micah. I got Izak going on Duty to God. Timo and Emily had choir. Zane and Micah had children's choir. Church was good so I am glad I went, it's always good. I am just very exhausted still. But I actually have only been taking antibiotics today so I am improving from Dayquil/Nyquil, Codeine cough, Aleve and such! Zane taught our lesson, they put together these eggs about Easter--scripture and symbol (we have some from Micah and my mom made them too). Even though he already had a turn we let him do this since he was so excited to do it!

Thanks to my mom and Tim for all their help! Hopefully I can get some things back on track this week. Slow and steady... Have a great week! We hope you are all healthy and happy!

A broken foot and some other things...

Here we are another week into March and we woke up to snow! Crazy weather. I am pretty sure we've had more snow this month than February! Here is the picture of Izak with the men that helped ordain him--along with other random photos that may or may not be explained later.


We had a nice dinner after that Taran stayed to have. If we had realized that it was actually going to happen we might have made an event out of it. Monday I went to my parents' with Gwen. Their street is still all torn up but I think they may be done now. After our visit we went home and got Gwen ready for dance. We drove. Once I dropped her off at home I picked up Timo for his doctor's appointment, a check up on his ankle. He feels like it is healing right and if we don't see major improvement over the next few weeks we need to come back in. Right after Timo had his Physical Therapy (PT) appointment which was next door. I stay and read. I could do stuff but it's just extra gas if I ran home and back--it's just far enough away with plenty of construction in between to make me not want to repeat the drive. I took Timo to work right after that. When I dropped him off it looked like his boss had stayed late--he's usually gone by 2 PM. So that meant bad news, actually it meant they had a meeting. His boss is high strung and doesn't really do much but expects these guys to do everything else. He has bad health and I think that plays into his persona. He is making it miserable for Timo and his co-workers. He likes his supervisor and that's who he usually deals with and he is great to work with. It's too bad some people really are BAD BOSSES! During dinner Izak stubbed his toe when he was running around the table after taking a ball from Zane who was chasing him. He stubbed his toe on Timo's foot in it's shoe. He was in a lot of pain and some of the kids chided him for being a wimp. For FHE we visited some new neighbors that moved in and visited some other neighbors with other needs. Izak limped around with us.

Tuesday Timo was sick so he didn't go to the temple but Tim took Izak anyway. He was so excited. Some of Timo's friends came with them. He managed with his toe. They were back by 6 AM. Izak's toe was more swollen. I called to try and get him into to the orthopedic surgeon but he was booked 'til Monday so I decided to go to the Urgent Care. I made it to the temple and then to my YW Presidency Meeting. Then I went and did my weekly shopping. I didn't have time to hit Costco for those items. So I went Wednesday. I picked up Gwen then we picked up Izak so he didn't have to walk home. The kids had piano and Emily had a drama competition at the Jr High. She did really well and got a Superior rating on her monologue. It was a northern district competition. Her school came in 2nd. Not too bad. After dinner I took Izak to the Urgent Care. I had a few hundred other things like Zane had scouts and soccer practice right after that, Micah had soccer practice as well. I got Micah a ride to practice but I had to pick up. Tim got home in time to get Zane. I dropped Micah off at Zane's practice and then picked up Emily. We picked up pizza at Little Cesar's for dinner then went to the Urgent Care. They were pretty sure his pinky toe was broken but x-rayed it anyway. He had also broken the bone below on his foot. They showed me the x-ray. His bone had a diagonal break through it. So they put a splint on his foot and said that we could come back after the swelling was down and they would cast it if we wanted them to. We like that he can shower so we are going to stick with the splint! The kids felt bad that they didn't believe Izak when he said that he thought he broke his toe! They have been super helpful and compassionate. It has touched my heart so much to see them help him. There really is an up side to every downer--he's going to miss the first half of soccer season. Hopefully that is all he misses. As inconvenient as this was and is I feel like I can not complain as I have a friend whose daughter was in a car accident and it's been 2 weeks now and she is making some progress but it is very slow. We pray for miracles for her. It is a very tender thing, she is Timo's age. We've known them since they were 3 years old. A broken foot is nothing. We got home during the BYU vs. IONA basketball game. It was so pathetic we turned it off. Timo was at a friend's watching and came home after to our surprise they had won!


Wednesday I had visiting teaching in the morning, Anna brought June just before. We had nice visits and they loved June! I went and got Gwen when she got home from preschool. We had fun with June and then she slept. She is taking longer naps which hopefully she will continue to do for Anna as well. Gwen and I did a quick Walmart run for a few things before the kids got home and I had to take Timo to PT. Then onto work. The upside to this is that I have read a bunch! I am on the last book in The Hourglass Door series. I have enjoyed it. It's a time travel story with romance. My neighbor dropped them off for me last week and Emily already finished them. It was Pi Day (3.14) so we had chicken pot pie for dinner and yogurt pie for dessert--sorry forgot photos! Emily had a concert that night at the Jr high. She is in a ladies only chorus SSA. They performed but other members of the choir exhibited their talents: violin, opera, other vocals. Emily and her friend sang a song by Adele. Emily played the piano while they both sung. It was good only I couldn't hear her very well because of where they had placed the mic. She wasn't thrilled with her performance but she is a perfectionist at that. We learned that night from my mom that Taran and his latest band got on to the finals of BYU's got talent. Check out their 'talent' here . I am so happy for Taran since he wrote the music and the judges loved it! The finals are April 4th!

Thursday I had Emily's appointment with the counselor to decide on next year's classes. She is going to have to do early morning seminary and if she makes Student Council she will have to take 2 classes online this summer. I am a little concerned but she feels like she can do it all. The summer online thing will be fine it's all the extra whatever going on during the year! After that I had to get Gwen and Luke from preschool. They were great and I got some of my lesson for YW planned for Easter when I teach. BYU was still playing when the little boys got home so they watched BYU lose. Zane was heart broken. Izak had a keyboarding test at the Jr high to see if he could test out--no but it was worth trying. Emily passed it so I thought it was worth a try. Later I went back to the Jr high to get her from Musical Theater tryouts. Normally she wouldn't have had to try out but she was sick the days they gave out AND turned in the forms in class that they were staying in it! Owell. Her friend Tanner (no he likes her friend) came over afterward and they hung out. Tim's worried this is starting so early, she is comfortable around guys since she has 2 older brothers. It's our life. That night was the local Caucus Meetings. Tim and I went. It was a much larger crowd than last time I went. BUT it was still long and quite boring. I read my book while Tim chatted with the men at our table and the votes were being counted. I like the system but I think we could maybe streamline it a bit.

Friday Tim had taken off work since it was donuts for dad (photo in collage of him and Zane) in the 2nd grade. Since I had broke off the handle of the faucet the night before he went in search of one. Meanwhile Gwen and I rested at home. Her swimming lessons got postponed (they were postponed Thursday for Zane and Izak as well) Her teacher was doing a state swim meet. Tim didn't have time to put it in before he went to lunch with Zane so he started after the program at about 2 PM! It took him until later that night to finish. I felt bad because I am sure he would have enjoyed watching March Madness instead on his day off! Owell. I took Timo to his PT appointment. They want him to do 4 more visits and then they think his ankle will be ready for normal life. After I dropped him off I went to Costco. Emily had some friends over so they ate with us then I rented them Little Red Riding Hood (the somewhat scary one that came out a year ago)and they watched it on ClearPlay. I don't know if they liked it but they had fun. Tim and I watched it after. I was exercising on the elliptical and got sucked in to the question who is the werewolf? I am not telling. So it was super late when we went to bed and I had CERT training the next day at 8 AM.

Saturday was St Patrick's Day and the leprechaun left candy in our shoes. That's it nothing else! I had CERT training until 9 PM. It was good but long. My bum would fall asleep after awhile. I was able to come home for lunch and dinner since we live behind the church where they were holding the class. Next week we practice our skills and finish at noon. Meanwhile Tim had to do chores with the kids and then he took them to my mom's where my family celebrated Tim's and Izak's birthday. I am sure it was a good diversion for everyone since I was gone and my mom did cool stuff for them. Katie and my mom sent me these cute photos.







After I got home I exercised and then showered. I went to bed shortly after that since I was beat!

Today Tim had early morning meetings and then I had BYC. The guys had manly choir just before church since they sang. Izak decided not to pass the sacrament until he can walk without crutches. so in 2 more Sundays. It's a bummer but I understand! The men sang amazing today! It was awesome. The talks were also good and lessons. So grateful! Timo is now the first Assistant to the Bishop. He will do well. We had Tim do the interviews with the kids tonight. Tomorrow we are doing FHE at the Alzheimer's Assisted Living place and Zane is going to teach a little lesson so it's worked out perfect for having interviews today! Have a great week! Hope spring really is coming and we aren't in for snow until June again!

Swimming Lessons, Snow , Inter tube Waterpolo and 2 Birthdays....

So I never finished posting about last week! Crazy busy days! This will be a jumbled out of order post! Just as we have finished indoor soccer and basketball Izak, Zane and Gwen started swimming lessons. They are doing it at a lady's indoor pool. Izak can swim he is just lacking confidence so he should be good after one session for scout stuff! Gwen and Zane can swim they just aren't deep end ready yet so this should also help. Izak also started soccer practice this week and the other kids start this coming week.

Tim and I got to go to BYU and watch Taran and his roommates and friends in on of their water polo games--on inter tubes! It was so fun, and funny! It was late so we didn't bring the other kids. We stopped to get hot chocolate at Mc Donalds and they were out. So we saw that they had Shamrock Shakes, it was March 1st! And they said that they were done with those for the YEAR! Oh my we laughed 'til we cried after Tim told them it is March 1st and St. Patrick's Day is still some days away. We went to another Mc Donalds that was on the same road but different town and thought let's see what they say! We actually got Shamrock Shakes and I don't remember them tasting as good as this one did! We had had great weather, spring worthy but that night it was snowy and cold. We were glad to make it home safe!

I was in charge of our Personal Progress Nights we are having this year on the 5th Wednesdays. The leaders meet with the girls individually and we have pancakes with a lot of toppings for them to put on them. We even made gluten free ones--we have a few that have Celiac. I had some of the older girls who have their medallion help with the set up and cooking. We also had our camp leaders there teaching the girls knitting for their camp project they have to make something to give away and since our theme is Modern Girls Vintage Values they thought it would be fun to teach them to knit this helped keep them busy when they were done eating and waiting to meet with a leader. The girls had a lot of fun and told me how much they loved it. We used and IHOP theme I mentioned last week so I used those colors for decor, girls appreciate that effort which is gratifying! We are going to keep that as our theme for each night we have the rest of the year--why reinvent it if they loved it!

We had the Blue & Gold Banquet for Cub Scouts and it was Cowboy Themed. It was darling the set up! We had a lot of fun and Zane got his Bobcat. Micah moved into WEBELOS. They showed a slide show of the year so that was pretty fun to watch. We had to make a cake for it that was decorated in a western theme. So for FHE we had 2 cakes one group decorated a strawberry one (made a flower pattern Izak and TImo weren't thrilled) and the cubs and dad decorated the chocolate one. It was Cowboy and Indians against the gummy bears--my idea. I know I am the mother of 5 boys! Lots of boys wanted it at the banquet which surprised me since there were so many cakes that looked MUCH better!

After the Personal Progress Night (I told you I was going to be all over the place!) was the Court of Honor--we had ours early so leaders and sisters could watch their sons/brothers. Izak got to carry the flag. The deacon scouts had a slide show that was fun to watch. Good times ahead for Izak!

Friday was Dr. Seuss' birthday so we had green eggs and ham! It was a hit! Gwen got t-shirt from a girl in her preschool that had the Cat in the Hat on it. Pretty nice birthday favor for her class!

My mom took Izak out to lunch for his birthday and got him a fancy soccer ball. He is loving it!

The collage above is the gathering we had last Sunday with the Pewside for 3 months of birthdays. Taran was able to come so everyone who lives here was there! It was a super fun time, of course!


This is a collage of Izak's birthday celebrating. He turned 12! He had cereal for his special breakfast, I bought him a special lunch and he wanted Panda Express for dinner. I made him a Reeses Trifle I found on Pinterest. Super rich and yummy! He didn't get a ton of gifts because he went to space camp for his party and got the largest ship. But his friends were generous so he didn't feel like he didn't get much plus what he got from the family on Sunday. I made the space campers rockets out of candy--it turned out better than it looks and Tim and I made t-shirts with tape and spray paint with the ship name Magellan on the front. I took photos of them with him but forgot to include one in the collage. The boys loved them and all wore them to school the same day.

Thursday night Tim and I went to a movie--sort of a pre-birthday fun! It was the Mission Impossible 4--the one we tried to see on Valentine's Day. We had some passes so it only cost us concessions. It was really good if you like those kind of movies. Friday was his birthday we also had favorite cereal for him as well. He went to lunch with Emily since it was lunch with parents day they do once a term. She always wants him to go so he did. He worked from home after that. Timo had a 'camp out' at a cabin for all the guys his age and their leaders they plan activities. So he missed dinner. My parents brought Taran and Tim's parents came too for dinner. We had hamburgers--the sunny weather makes it seem like BBQ season! Tim grilled and I got the other food ready. He wanted to make it easy and chose Costco Chocolate cake for his dessert. Only asked for Johnny English 2 for his birthday--he has some DIY things he wants to put his b-day money towards. So after the grandparents left we watched it. It was pretty funny!

Yesterday was another beautiful day. Tim put an amplifier on our new antennae. We also took our tramp pad off to see if it's worth fixing. We have just barely had it over it's warranty and the loops for the springs are ripping!. Zane and Gwen and I cleaned out all the balls that were under it after Tim removed it! WOW! I also threw out all the garbage. WOW! Amazing what blows under there!

Izak and Emily had friends here most of the day. We had about 20 extra kids in and out. They left when we went to stake conference. Timo had Spring Fling a girl's choice casual dance. He had a lot of fun. He got home at midnight. We went out for treats after the adult meeting of stake conference with a bunch of couples from our ward. It was fun. Then I exercised when I got home. I can't eat late like that without exercising!

Today Izak is getting ordained to be a deacon. We are waiting for Taran to get here. Unfortunately I think only my mom will make it of the grandparents and maybe my sister since we didn't know for sure when it was going to take place until just before Stake Conference.

Some other things that have happened: Gwen had her check up and got her infamous Kindergarten shots! She did super well! Taran's passport came and we got it mailed with his VISA application. Unfortunately I noticed AFTER I mailed it I noticed a couple of things we/I did wrong. I could really complain about the way this was done which made us make these mistakes but I am going to leave my whining to a minimum. Unfortunately it could push back Taran's MTC date 6 weeks if it doesn't go through. Timo had a choir concert and it was really good.

We also had the typical piano, scouts and homework stuff. Have a great week! Hope it's as nice as our weekend!

Valentine's Day, Micah's Birthday and life...

Last week we celebrated Micah's birthday with my side of the family. Hence I did not get the weekly update done. So this will probably be long—or if I can not remember much it may be short.

Monday I mostly remember Gwen had dance, and I had the kids do their Valentines for school. I also got stuff for Izak's class party I was in charge of the next day. For FHE we made Valentines for Taran and a lady in our ward. We anonymously put them on her door that night. The kids seemed to enjoy it. Tim put the Valentines on Taran's door the next day—he loved it.

Tuesday was Valentines Day and I still went to the temple. It wasn't very busy. We had the Valentines party right after lunch. At noon. They did an exchange then a mom did Minute To Win It. She did a great job and I did the prizes. Another mom brought cookies for them to decorate. Easy yet fun. I had a little less than an hour when I got home before I picked up Gwen from Luke's. Once I picked her up the day just got busier! Luckily we canceled piano for the day. Emily had planned a Space Mission with her friends. I had to get her and a couple of friends there but I was watching my niece and nephews so my brother and his wife could go to dinner with my parents. I was totally happy to help but had forgotten about Emily's thing so I had to take them with! They were great and it wasn't too far away. My mom appreciated the dinner and that my dad made the effort to go since he usually doesn't go anywhere very often. We had a pizza dinner, pink lemonade, Costco Red Velvet cake, bar sugar cookies (a fluke I hadn't meant to make) and ice cream. The kids had a lot of fun with their cousins. It was a fun night then Tim went and got Emily and her friends and I took Zane to his Jr Jazz game while Timo babysat. Emily's friends hung out and ate the rest of our pizza. That was fine, I kind of thought that might happen. Tim and I tried to watch a movie I gave him for Valentines Day but we kept getting interrupted! Owell.

Wednesday I watched June and then took Timo to his check up on his ankle. They gave him a fancy brace for his ankle. He has started to use it more and the boot less. That night we had New Beginnings Prep, the girls practiced skits and helped make decorations. We had them sign a large banner that said.” NOW is our time to SHINE” which goes with the theme Arise and Shine Forth. We also practiced launching the paper lanterns—we did 2 so the girls would know how it would work. They worked really well and everyone was excited to do it the next week! After YW a bunch of us went over to our friend's to wish her well before her mastectomy the next day. We all cried and hugged.

Thursday I had Luke here and he and Gwen played a bit outside since the weather was sunny. We have had a lot of unusual warm and sunny days. It has been a very pleasant February! Micah had Jr Jazz practice that night so it was a mild afternoon for me!

Friday I went Visiting Teaching that morning. I picked Emily up from school just before. She went to take a quiz (which the teacher decided not to do!) and then came home to get ready to go to Idaho. Tim's brother Erick and his wife Liz were in the musical Fiddler on the Roof. They had the parts Tevye and Golda. Tim's parents, his sister Amy and her daughter Maddie were going so they invited Emily to go with. My mom had called the night before and they are doing construction on her street and so they weren't going to be having any power Friday morning. She wondered if they could hang out until it was back on. This was a blessing to me because she said she could get Emily over to Amy's so I could visit teach. She also watched Gwen so I didn't need to take her with or find someone to take her. My mom ate lunch with us—my dad went back to bed and didn't get up until my mom got home. He said that the power was back on by then. BTW Emily had a great time. That night Tim and I went to visit our friend who had the mastectomy in the hospital. She looked pretty good considering major surgery. Izak was babysitting so we couldn't do much more! I was working on my craft room reorganization project. It isn't totally done but I got a lot done and the stuff I had moved to the Family Room while I worked I was able to get put back in an organized way by Saturday night.

Saturday we had no basketball or indoor soccer games so I asked Tim to let me get the stuff organized and put away. He consented and took care of the kids helped them get their chores done. He took Micah and couple of friends to Orange Leaf. No party this year but we let them do something fun with a couple of friends. We had a coupon and rewards so it was relatively inexpensive. One thing Tim has been working on over the past few weeks and he has put an antennae on our roof. We had the digital converter already but our antennae we had in the attic didn't get any reception. Now we are cable free! We really only watch sports and BYUtv so we didn't need to pay for cable. We don't get ESPN but Tim can visit his parents and see what he wants on ESPN. He got an amplifier he is going to add soon. By 9:30 PM I had all my stuff back in the craft room now I need to still work on it but I can get to my stuff better because half the room is organized and lots of stuff has been thrown out or sent to goodwill. Timo went down to the BYU Library and had Taran get some books for him to use for a report he his going to do in English. He brought Taran back with him—he was coming to celebrate Micah's birthday. We found out that night when he opened a letter that came to our house for him that he needs his passport within a month of receiving his call—so we made plans to get that rolling Monday and Tuesday.

Sunday we went to church and then went to my parents right after to celebrate Micah and Tate's birthdays. We brought some of the dinner and pies for dessert—Micah's choice. My mom tries to fix a special meal for family members' birthdays, we had already given Tate his presents but Micah got his from my family. He only wanted a watch or money. He got money which he used later to buy some new orange athletic shoes! I thought he was saving up for some big Lego set. Funny he wanted shoes! Tim is always surprised that our boys want athletic clothing or shoes for their birthdays. But in a family our size with our budget they understand the limitations of buying more than one pair of athletic shoes a year.

Monday was Micah's birthday. He wanted breakfast burritos for breakfast and juices. He was going snowshoeing with the scouts so I got up early and got him a special sandwich at the deli at Walmart. Tim took him and Izak it was an 11yr old/Webelos outdoor activity. I had planned to go the first 2 times but it got postponed because of no snow. Sunday we got some so it was perfect! Except a little windy! I had to do some things for Micah's birthday and I also took Taran to get his passport photos done and shopping for some missionary clothing since I had a Kohl's 30% off and they had their dress shirts and dress pants on sale. I needed him to try them on. He is so busy he just doesn't have a lot of time to do that right now and I know if we don't work on it here and there we'll miss some good deals we could have had! After Taran, Gwen and I ran around I brought him home. Meanwhile Timo had gone to Mc Donald's with his quorum and then played ping pong. Emily was traveling home. Gwen finally found a friend to play with. Gwen did help me wrap Micah's presents. When Micah got home from snowshoeing he wanted to open his presents. Normally our kids open them first thing but since snowshoeing was rather 'early' we just postponed it. He called Emily to make sure it was okay with her to do it. She was a good sport and let him open them. Taran got him a BYU soccer ball he loved. We got him the new Jimmer DVD, money and a Broncos Division Champ shirt and a Broncos' beanie with a bill. Actually he just got the picture of them since I forgot to order them early enough to get here by his birthday! Lame, I know. I had warned him so he was prepared. Later Taran worked on a recording he and his friends are doing to audition for an acoustic concert at BYU. Micah wanted Panda Express for dinner so that's what we had and Tim went and got it for us—he's a gem! Then he wanted Pecan Pie that night for his actual birthday! (He had banana cream and keylime at my parents) There was enough leftover of the other pies I had made so we had lots of choices! For FHE we watched old videos of him as a baby and toddler and shared what we like about him and he filled out his likes and we guessed. It was a fun evening.

Tuesday I took Taran early to go to the Utah County office where they send out the passport stuff. Unfortunately online they don't tell you have to pay with a check, cashiers check or money order--it says you can pay with a credit card. Well, that is ONLY at the regional offices that actually process the Passport! So we went by Taran's apartment and dropped off his stuff since the bank didn't open until 9 AM. I don't usually carry my checkbook around to lose:/ Then we went back and I dropped Taran off and he turned it all in. Over $200 when you add the expedition fee and the overnight shipping fee! But if he doesn't get it in time he may not get his VISA approved in time and it will delay his MTC arrival date 6 weeks! So I dropped him off at work and went to the Provo Temple from there. It was nice for a change of pace. I went to Costco after in Orem and called Tim to let him know I was nearby-- he took me out to lunch! It was fun to see him and have a little date! I got back in time to unload the car and get Gwen. The kids had piano that afternoon. Zane had scouts too. Izak took around his birthday party invitations--yep another birthday 2 weeks from Micah's! (We go in spurts 2 October a day apart, 2 in November 5 days apart, February and then 2 in March 4 days apart and then another in April! My birthday is the only one by itself!) Zane had his last basketball game and I had actually woke up at 4:30 AM and debated going to the temple right then but thought I'll go back to sleep but I didn't! So I was ready for bed after dinner! Tim tried to video it but I don't think he did much--he hates that! Zane had a great season and I think he learned a lot and had fun! Timo had his last Jr Jazz game and was bummed his team lost and Tim let him play the last minute but no sooner. The doctor said a MONTH at least! Timo wasn't too happy he didn't get to come back. They consoled themselves at McDonalds!

Wednesday when I woke up I couldn't move, my lower back was in terrible pain. I knew it was partially caused by my 'monthly visitor' which brings really bad cramps. I felt them like labor. I think it just triggered my back into spasms. After 2 Aleve, the heat pad, hot shower and blessing I was able to do some errands later that day. I had misread how many shirts Taran needed and decided to go back and get some more at Kohl's. We were having New Beginnings that night so I had to go then or miss using the 30% off. My mom met us at Kohl's she was looking at athletic shoes but ended up not getting anything. She took us to lunch. Two days in a row! I am spoiled! Then Gwen and I hurried back to get home before the kids. Her friend Sophie came by just after we got home so she left to play with her. Timo had his 2nd Physical Therapy (PT) appointment that afternoon. I got to finish my book Midnight in Austenland. I really enjoyed it. His appointment is an hour. Then I took him to work then picked up Emily and took her to basketball practice. It was her last one. Tim brought her home and I picked up Timo from work. We had New Beginnings that night so I needed to be a little early. The ladies did a great job on the decorations--I should have taken pictures! Theme for the night was Now is our time to SHINE. Lots of yellow and lanterns! We had the girls each hold a battery operated candle for part of it and we had a skit that talked about how they can shine. The youth camp leaders did a skit too introducing the theme Modern Girls Vintage Values for our stake camp. The girls introduced how they can shine through Personal Progress, Honor Bee, Sports, Temple Trips...The bishop closed with remarks and then I shared why we were doing the paper lanterns, the symbolism and then how to light them. It was going to be awesome EXCEPT the wind made it not so! So only a few got off and the rest burned out before the air got hot enough to lift them. Crazy wind! We had refreshments after that so at least they could console themselves with yummy food:) Owell, we may try again in the fall at Evening in Excellence! It was late by the time we had it all cleaned up.

Thursday I woke up with more pain up my back but not as intense I could move a little. I had Tim use the massager on me after the heat pad and I took the Aleve earlier than Wednesday. Thank heavens it worked faster so I was able to drive to the preschool field trip to Thanksgiving Point Dinosaur movie and museum visit! Gwen cut herself some bangs, I was not happy. If you look close you can see her in the Dinosaur Museum pics--her friend said that her bangs looked like a boy. I caught her in her room doing it so I trimmed them best I could! I got to know a couple of moms that I see coming and going so that was nice and the kids had a blast. I have to admit I fell asleep in the movie for a little bit! It was interesting but I was so tired. Luke came over after and they were tired and watched the rest of Kung Fu Panda 2 that they had started the week before. I made the kids play with each other because we had had too much fighting. I took Emily to the temple that afternoon. Izak and Zane went to the BYU women's last home basketball game that night with Teresa--they had a ton of fun and came home with lots of spiffs. Emily was suppose to go but didn't get done in time from the temple. That night Micah had basketball practice. After Tim picked him up he took Emily and her friend to their guy friends' Jr Jazz game. Then Tim took his dad back his Nook that he had fixed something on it for him. Then picked up the girls. He listened to BYU play Gonzaga, not a good shooting night!

Friday my back was sore but MUCH better. Gwen and I had June over later. We went to my friend who had surgery the week before and was now home. I took her a note and some DVDS. She answered the door and was looking pretty good all things considered! I had tried to find the Healthy Choice Fudge Bars they sell at Costco that have fiber but they didn't have them at our Walmart. We walked back and June was pretty tired by then I got her to sleep. Anna came just as the boys got home from school. They like seeing June. I took Emily to her volunteering at the Ashford Alzheimer's place. She walked home because I had to take Izak to his last indoor soccer game. I made Gwen and Zane come with since no one was home to watch them--they were at friends. Izak played well and scored but I don't think I got it on video even though I tried--I don't always notice where he is in the camera! Meanwhile Emily had her game at 5 PM and Tim barely got home in time to take her. They won so they had another game the next day. Timo went to a friend's to watch the NBA All Star Stuff. I was so exhausted I didn't do much and actually slept a bit after dinner. We had the kids work on their chores. Izak and Emily ended up gone with friends which made Micah mad and totally robbed. Not fun.

Saturday morning I had our Stake Womens Conference. We had a great opening speaker, RoseAnn Gunther. She does tons of humanitarian stuff. She shared some amazing stories with us then we did humanitarian stuff! I helped tie 2 quilts using the International Stitch. They had yummy croissant chicken salad sandwiches for lunch for us too. After that was over (around 1 PM) I ran to get a thank you for Emily's coach. Her game was at 1 PM--they lost. After I dropped that off at the game I ran to Walmart to get Timo some special pens for his Chemistry Periodic Table Shrinky Dink! Don't ask-- it cost me $20 for those pens! Then I ran to Costco and got my friend those Fudge bars. I just remember how my digestive process slowed down because of the pain meds and she shared that she knew what I meant! Bless her! I got home in time to get ready to leave with Tim for our date. Taran gave him tickets to the last BYU Men's Home game. It was at 4 PM. We had a blast but I got a little emotional when I first got there because the players had pink high tops and the cheerleaders had pink ribbons and pink pom poms and some of the students had pink head sweatbands and wristbands in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness! Thinking of my friends who have gone through it and my friend now made it tender. We saw Taran's roommate on the JUMBOTRON and Taran was next to him, that was fun! We didn't see Taran up close which I was bummed about but that's okay. Emily and Timo were going to be gone at 6:30 PM so I don't think Tim wanted to hang around. I forgot to mention how blasted cold the wind was and it was super strong even with the sun shining it was harsh and it didn't let up. Emily is on our stake dance committee this year so she helped set up. Then she came home and dressed and went back to the dance, she had a lot of fun. Timo's friends don't go to stake dances esp. now that they can date. He was watching the All Star stuff at a friend's. We were all happy to hear that Jeremy Evans of the Utah Jazz won the Slam Dunk competition! Cool. Sometime during the day Timo got asked to the next girl's choice dance Spring Fling. Pretty fun! She is the younger sister of one of his friends. She just turned 16 on Halloween. She is a darling girl! He'll have a lot of fun.

Today was church and the YW sang it was so amazing! The talks were great as well. And all the meetings. Tim was busy hometeaching since he didn't have bishopric meetings today. He did have ward choir and then stake choir after church. It's all good. Yeah, now I am caught up!

Have a great week! I am in charge of our Personal Progress Night Wednesday so I will probably not do anything fun for Leap Day! owell! We have only one Jr Jazz game left--Micah's Saturday. But we have a few kids starting swimming lessons this week. That should be quite entertaining--sarcasm ;p