Jobs

Mom: Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, did you get your dishwasher job done?

SB and SW: Yep.

Mom: It's all unloaded? Good job! Thanks! There's the bus.

SB: Bye.
SW: Bye, Mom.

Mom: Have a good day, girls. Love you.

Fabulous.

I Think I Might Be Famous

My cousin, Stephanie, over at Diapers and Divinity, has kindly awarded me with a blog award. Steph and I didn't grow up living close together, but we did see each other every summer or so and hung out. And while I'd say we've always liked each other, we don't really know each other all that well. However, since she began her blog, I am convinced that we should have been twins. Or at least BFF's. We have the same laundry disease, she thinks like I do, she has piles like me, and she's been known to do really stupid things like me. Maybe we were actually separated at birth. You never know.

So, with this evidence, we see that she is about as qualified as I am to be a blog judge . Which isn't saying much. I, however, am running with it. If she'd like to give me an award, I will humbly and graciously accept! I am sure this award will make me famous and popular, and incredibly rich. I will have autographed photos ready to order by Christmas. (Just leave a comment with how many you'd like to order.) ;) I'll be starting a book next week, and hope to have it done by next Christmas. I am sure I will have to start homeschooling the girls soon--ugh, this part of being famous makes me tired. But, it will be worth it, because we will meet so many interesting and wonderful people as we tour the world for speaking engagements and seminars, that any lack in my teaching ability will be more than made up. And, I think Steph and I will be starting our own blog award soon, "This Blog is Better Than a Nap" that is sure to become the most sought after award on the blogosphere. (This was her idea, but, of course, I think it's fabulous. I told you she was smart like me.)

In all seriousness, I am flattered that Stephanie would pick my blog as one she likes, since I think she is a great writer and I enjoy her blog so much. And now, with all of my shortcomings, I am allowed to pass this award on to two blogs that I believe are excellent. And, they really are. Despite my reading them.

I would like to award Miss Lindsay over at Adventures with Lindsay, and my sister, Scrap Chair Potato, at My Three Amigos (as has been said before, nepotism doesn't exist in bloggy awards.) The first, because I am always happy to read what Lindsay writes. Whether it's about her adorable little guy, Garrett, or her new favorite recipe, I always know it will be well written and fulfilling. And, the second, because, while Scrappy's also a good writer, I like her blog a lot because of the great photographs, (which would be great even if they didn't have my cute nephews in most of them, she's just a good photographer like that) and for the way she usually keeps mommy things positive and not at all sarcastic (which, I don't even have to tell you, is sort of the opposite of what I manage here. :)) So, really, check out these two blogs and you won't be disappointed. Happy Excellent Blog Day to Lindsay and Scrappy!

(I probably should have said Mrs. Lindsay and Mrs. Scrap Chair Potato, because they both are married. Sorry. Also, I was going to mention that Stephanie is giving away a great book on her blog, if you want to check it out...)

Cold

It's freezing here now. I'm trying to like it. So, I made a list of the things that are definitely good about the cold weather.

1. I can stop at the library after I go to the grocery store and the milk won't spoil. (It might freeze, but it won't spoil.)
2. Better gas mileage. Unless this is not true. But, I've heard it is, so I'm going with it.
   
3. I love hot chocolate, and it does taste better in the winter.
   

Um, I guess that's it. Oh, wait! I just thought of one more:

4. Now it's not really as weird that Snow White wears a snow hat nearly twenty-four hours a day.

Padded

This morning, I got out of the shower to find Sleeping Beauty dressed like this:"What are you doing dressed like that?" I asked. "It's twenty degrees out, you are not going to ride your bike, are you?"

"No, I had to get dressed like this because Snow White and Cinderella are throwing those fake apples at me!"Nice.

Messy Service

A couple of weekends ago, we were privileged enough to take part in a massive service project. Now, I say privileged because we were able to provide service, not because the actual activity was pleasant. Unless you enjoy enormous amounts of wall paint with an abundant amount of unsupervised school children. Yes, it was quite the adventure.
Our Primary kids had previously spent time sanding sets of building blocks to get them ready for painting and donating. The blocks will be sent to the Humanitarian Services of our church to be distributed to children in need, like those involved in disasters, such as Hurricane Ike. We gathered together as families to paint the blocks to get them ready for shipment. It was a great idea, until they got the paint out, and half of the parents forgot that it was a family activity. Some disappeared inside, and some were painting at different tables from their children. Mostly, children were let loose to paint blocks with as much paint as they thought appropriate. And, when you're five, a gallon of paint per block is about how you cover it.
Luckily, we only got to a hundred or so sets of blocks, (or, unluckily, depending if you're the one that has to finish up) so not all of them were still sticky when they were put in the fancy bags. There are several more sets that will need to be painted, and this time, we'll invite adults or children (like mine, they did a great job!) who are less generous with their paint. Then, perhaps, the children receiving the blocks will be able to get them apart to play with them.

The Luncheon

I'm such a dork. Not that this is news to 98% of you reading this blog. To the other 2%, I'm sorry to disappoint you. You should have read my other posts, and then you'd already know.

Today was Parent/Teacher Conference day, which is a day I generally enjoy. I like being told that my girls are wonderful, obedient, delightful, caring, smart students. It sort of makes me feel like I've done something right, which I don't usually think when I am at home with their fighting and talking back. I don't think that makes me a dork, though. Everyone likes to be told they are great. If you don't think so, then you are a dork. :)

Because it was P/T Conference, and because I am an upstanding member of the PTO, I agreed (foolishly) to be in charge of the Teacher Luncheon. I was told to plan for about thirty. I called many willing and cheerful volunteers to bring food. Then, yesterday, I found out that there would only be twenty teachers there. No problem. Too much food is better than not enough food, right? That's what I told my sister on the phone this morning.

After setting up the teacher's lounge, I ran home to make a little cheerful sign to put by the centerpiece on the luncheon table. I spent way too long on it. Not because it was fancy or long, but, because I couldn't figure out if 'You are what makes our school the best!' or 'You are what make our school the best!' was the proper way to say my measly message. It depends on how one views the word you. Is it 'you' as a whole, or each one of 'you'? I really worried for so long about it--and all for teachers who say things like 'Your homework needs done before you color your pumpkin picture.' Really. And they don't know that it is horrible grammar, because they grew up here and everyone says it.

Well, I finally went with the suggestion of my computer and said 'make', but not after way too much thought over something that was probably not even noticed in their ravenous romp through the food line. I felt like a bigger dork when my sister called and said, "Well, if you had just said 'You make our school the best!' then it would have been a non-issue." Yes, true. I'd like to blame my brain freeze on my horrible headache, but the truth is, things like this happen way too often. I'm just a dork.

Apparently, though, I'm not the only one. You see, it's a good thing that I planned for thirty people, because half of the people who were very willing to bring food, either forgot, or had terrible P/T conferences and decided against contributing. And, imagine my horror when one of the desserts someone brought was a package of dollar store fake Oreos. Yes, teachers, we appreciate you enough to give you disgusting cookies and signs with questionable grammar. I do hope that they realize that my position on the PTO is a voluntary one. Regardless, they might decide that the PTO 'needs reorganized.'

A Refuge

About a month ago, I decided to sign up to receive in my Google Reader, a feed of "Family Gems", quotes from my church leaders that focus on strengthening and supporting marriage and families. (You can sign up here.) I love the little boost the thoughts give me in focusing my time and energies on my family. For some reason, the following quote really struck me:

"When the seas of life are stormy, a wise mariner seeks a port of peace. The family, as we have traditionally known it, is such a refuge of safety. 'The home is the basis of a righteous life and no other instrumentality can take its place or fulfill its essential functions' (quoted in Conference Report, Oct. 1962, 72). Actually, a home is much more than a house. A house is built of lumber, brick, and stone. A home is made of love, sacrifice, and respect. A house can be a home, and a home can be a heaven when it shelters a family. When true values and basic virtues undergird the families of society, hope will conquer despair, and faith will triumph over doubt. "Such values, when learned and lived in our families, will be as welcome rain to parched soil. Love will be engendered; loyalty to one's best self will be enhanced; and those virtues of character, integrity, and goodness will be fostered. The family must hold its preeminent place in our way of life because it's the only possible base upon which a society of responsible human beings has ever found it practicable to build for the future and maintain the values they cherish in the present."

Thomas S. Monson“Dedication Day,” Ensign, Nov 2000, 65

Perhaps it was the timing of this little tidbit into my inbox; I had just been on a vacation away from my home and children, which made me even more anxious to be in my "port of peace" with my husband and children, with the comforting, familiar all around. But, even more than that, I think it struck me as such an important thought in society now, as we see the breakdown of the family. Many things are trying to devalue traditional families and the strength they give to society.

One of those things is the Proposition 8 now up for vote in California. (You can read a very candid and interesting post on this issue here and find out more information here.) I find it comforting, as well as important, that eight years ago, a prophet of God stressed that "family, as we have traditionally known it, is such a refuge of safety." What a blessing it is to know that as the world values crumble and other stresses-such as economy and war-pervade, we have the safety and peace of our homes. It is a daunting task we have to teach our children those values we hold dear. Yet, if we do, they will have the peace and comfort that a home of love, respect, and sacrifice can provide. Our children, then, will become the "welcome rain to parched soil" in society and in our lives.

I also found it interesting as I scrolled through the posts of "Family Gems" that I had missed in previous months, that not only was this quote published last week, it was also published on August 22nd of this year. It seems that someone is trying to get through to someone--probably me. I hope I took enough notice this time!

Party Girl

I have been a party girl the last couple of weeks! Too much fun in too little time. Thanks to a busy life mixed with a moody computer, we'll play catch up for a while. Today we will start with Cinderella's birthday party.

(For more group pictures and video of the party, check our Chaos blog.)

We had a great time rocking and limboing to Hawaiian music and the Beach Boys. We greeted girls at the door with leis and everyone made flowers for their hair so we could get in to the tropical mood. Luckily, it was gorgeous weather, so we didn't have to pretend too much. Also, luckily, it was gorgeous weather, so the giggling could go outside quite a bit. Daddy was especially grateful for this. :)After decking ourselves out in fake tropical flowers, we headed outside for a hog roast feast. The pig was in the form of hot dogs--and it wasn't really a roast because our BBQ ran out of gas as King put the "meat" on. No one (except me) complained about the boiled hot dogs, though. The fruit kabobs were definitely the favorite part of the meal. That, and the "dinner conversation" of boys and other truth-or-dare topics, such as favorite teachers that live next door and kissing the driveway. (I don't get it either.)The highlight of the night was watching all twelve girls try their hand at opening the "cutest pinata in the world." It may have been the cutest, but it was also the trickiest. In the end, Cinderella ended up breaking it apart with her hands to get to the goodies. Then it was time for cake and presents. The girls liked the cake, but thought the paper products were "soooo cute." It's true, they were. Cinderella was in heaven with fifteen new pairs of earrings for her new pierced ears, as well as lots of other fabulous things. Then we introduced all of the girls to "Gilligan's Island". They loved it, and I loved watching them all enjoy the crazy characters I grew up with. It was a fun party, but I have to be honest and say that I was glad when it was over. Twelve giggling girls sure have a lot of energy! I think King felt a little bit overwhelmed with all of the girls. Poor guy. I love the way he marked his cup. :)

Soon

Our computer is acting up. Or our internet is. Whatever it is, I am bugged and have more than once wasted time getting things ready to post, only to realize that I had worked in vain. So, I apologize for the lack of posting. And, since the King and I have scheduled an anniversary trip here in the near future, the lack of posting will continue. But, do check back early next week when I will have gory details of birthday bashes, painting disasters, and tourist traps. Y'all come back now, ya hear?

Haunting Success

(insert creepy, spooky music, with witch cackles here)

Need a new way to get into the Halloween spirit? Invite the inner goblin in your children to surface and haunt your halls? I have an easy solution. One that you probably have on your list to complete before the Christmas holiday season anyway. It may cost you a little money, but the ghoulish results are, indeed, a guarantee.

Schedule a family picture session.

"No way," you're thinking to yourself, "family pictures are filled with smiles and family togetherness, fresh faces and cutesy props. There's no creepiness there."

Yet, you've forgotten the bewitching hour before the pictures are actually taken. Therein lies your haunting success. Your otherwise rational and cheerful children will be transformed into things your neighborhood preschoolers (and most of their parents) will run from. Scary. Really scary.

First will come the dragging of feet when it's shower time. Then the scoffs at having to dry their hair. Soon, an utter distaste for clothes they happily wore, just days ago, will settle in. Then comes the request, "But, WHY do I have to wear shoes?"--outside, in the rain, through the mall, in public spaces. Clearly, this is your signal that the reasoning mind and sweet disposition have begun to take leave of your child's body. You are on the right track. Carry on.

Insist that hair be parted and thoroughly brushed. Require that clothing be actually worn on the correct places of the body. Again, insist that shoes be worn. Then, try to curl hair or add accessories. Request that your pre-teen's eye shadow be put on in the car, or, preferably, not be worn at all. Finally, shuffle all agitated, begrudgingly attired, shoe wearing, shells of formerly tranquil children into the car. (Insert evil laugh--Mwah-ha-ha-ha!!!!) Let the haunting begin!!!!

Mom's Day

Today is my mom's birthday. She is a great person, a wonderful mother, and a fabulous grandma. My sisters and I, and my girls, are lucky to have her as an example of a woman of quiet strength. Twelve years ago, on her birthday, she was at our house when we brought Cinderella home from the hospital. Now, I'm not positive, but, I'm pretty sure that there's no way I can ever top that birthday gift. So, today, this little shout out to mom will have to suffice. Love you, Mom, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Fall Festival

Saturday night, it was the Fall Festival at the twins' elementary school. Because Cinderella is an alumni of said school, she thought it would be kind of fun to go there on her birthday night. She planned to show off her newly pierced ears to her teachers, and maybe indulge in a fall treat or juvenile game or two.

On the way home, we discussed what fun we'd had. I had only seen Cinderella (from my "job" post at the cafeteria cash register) for a brief moment--at the cake walk. The other girls never made it to the cafeteria. They were all busy playing games and socializing with friends. Out of the blue, Cinderella asked what time it was.

"It's 7:47," I replied.

"Wow, I am officially twelve years old then. I have been for about a half hour."

"Yep, it was probably right when I saw you at the cake walk that you turned twelve. You're official," I said.

"You are getting so big. You must feel older and so mature," commented King.

"Yeah, I got bored with the cake walk, right in the middle of it," Cinderella said, with an air of listlessness.

She's too funny!

At Twelve Years

To my sweet little girl,
It's hard to believe it has been twelve years since you--all tiny, six pounds of you--were placed into my arms. Daddy and I spent a long time dreaming of how perfect you would be, but we didn't dream high enough. You are more perfect than I dreamed, more beautiful than I imagined, and have brought me more joy than I have ever known. You amaze me. Happy twelfth birthday. I love you.
Love,
Mama

You're Kidding Me, Right?

Is it just me, or would you think that if your mother has already threatened your life for using an ink pen in an inappropriate, messy way, that taking apart a purple ink pen to see if the ink would come out on your bedroom carpet is a good idea? I'm just saying, it seems like a really bad idea to me. What do you think? Hmmm, Snow White, any thoughts on this?

October

I just love October. Most of the time. All the cold parts are not my favorite. Neither is the winter coat part. And the goose bumps on the poky, not-shaved-often-enough legs. And the waking up to an alarm when it is cold in the house. Brrrr. These parts I could do without. But, there are just so many redeeming qualities to October.

I love the colors of Fall and the crisp smell of the Autumn air. I love the sweaters (they hide a little more 'fluffiness') and the warm socks. The pumpkin muffins that I associate with October are just delicious. And I can never get enough caramel apples. I love soups. Not only are they tasty, but they are just so easy. (And all three girls will eat most of the soups I make, so that's always a plus.)

The beginning of October always means the chance to listen to God's living prophet here on earth. Every six months, our church has General Conference, where we get to hear wisdom and direction from the General Authorities of our church. To me, it's a chance to refresh and renew my commitment to follow Heavenly Father's plan for me and my family, to follow in Christ's footsteps, and regain an eternal perspective in this life of mine. (While the Relief Society general meeting was technically in September, it was a great kick-off to the General Conference weekend. If you missed it and want to recharge your batteries, get your life into perspective, feel God's Holy Spirit, and remember God loves you and cares about everything you are doing, click here to listen to this great conference. My favorite was the last talk, given by President Uchdorf, but all of it is fabulous.)

Another reason for me to love October is the chance I get to celebrate the anniversary of my wedding day. This year, it will be fifteen years for us. Wow! We are going to celebrate by heading off on our own on a mini vacation. We are planning a quick trip to Washington DC. (You know, since the economy is so stable and all, we thought we'd spend some money that was just lying around--ha ha.) We are very excited!

October also means the celebration of the birth of our oldest girl. Cinderella will be twelve in just a few short days. It's hard to say how much she's blessed our life. When October rolls around, I think of all of the blessings the Lord has blessed our family with. Cinderella and King are two of the four best things in my life. So, to me, October is a time for counting my blessings. And eating delicious food. Before it's November and becomes super trendy to do so. :)