In case you missed it

I made a list of three things I'm thankful for each day. It used to be in my sidebar, but here it is in case you missed it.

• 30 - Homemade rolls (thanks Caryn- she brought rolls over to go with our belated Thanksgiving feast. Now I remember why it's best to gather several families together. You can't bake a turkey and bake rolls and bake the veggies unless you have 3 ovens. I have one), Thermacare shoulder wraps, Neck rubs
• 29 - Disney ornaments, Children excited for decorating tree, Soothed teething baby
• 26 - Each week I'm grateful for Anna who helps me clean my home, Naptime, No barfing today
• 25 - Sheri and her kind gestures for me and my family, Jon for defending our home against the Ant Attack, Knowing that Families are Forever
• 24 - My Dad's Surgeon who got all the skin cancer out, My brother & sister-in-law and family who are returning from the Phillipeans, Family Day along Newport Beach
• 23 - Singing w/ the Choir, Missionaries, My extended Family
• 22 - Baby Giggles, Heated Shoulder Wrap, Being BYU Alumni - even if the football team didn't win
• 21 - Donna, the World's Greatest Visiting Teacher; Chocolate Chip Cookies; Girls' Night Out to see Twilight :)
• 20 - Amy's thoughtfulness, Choral Music, Burdens that I Can Bare
• 19 - Sara for tending the kids ALL DAY, oncology nurse for her kindness and concern, Friends who Inspire
• 18 - Peace & Quiet, Jon taking all the kids to Pack Meeting, Finishing the 4th Grade Famous Person Report
• 17 - Jessica's Dance Teacher, College Degree, Talking w/ my sister on the phone
• 16 - My kids, My husband, My life
• 15 - Temple, Answered Prayers, Holy Ghost
• 14 - Family Movie Night, Shopping w/OUT kids, Drop by visits
• 13 - Team Physical Therapy, grape tomatoes, Jessica folding kitchen towels
• 12 - Jon helping James w/ homework, Scoured kitchen counters, Bedtime
• 11- LOVE my Grandpa, Yeah for Therapy, My Trusting Children
• 10 - Dr. offices that return phone calls, Cozy Blankets, April Fresh dryer sheets
• 9 - Preparing Church Lessons, Love Notes, Family
• 8 - Family Bike Ride, Cuddly Baby, Frozen Pizza
• 7 - Chemo Nausea Faded, Zucchini Bread, Jon Taking Kids to Park So I Could CatNap
• 6- Friends Willing to Pick Up James, Hot pad, Shoulder/Neck Rub
• 5 - My Dad (Happy Birthday), Anna (my new house help), LeAnn & Janet (thanks for watching the kids)
• 4 - America, Right to Vote, Cooler Weather
• 3 - Wide eyes, Overcast skies, James' homework ethic
• 2- Hyla & Family, Nap, & Excedrin
• 1- Sea World Tickets, Trick-or-Treating, Health Insurance

Dinnertime Funnies

Jon usually does a great job of trying to ask the kids questions while we sit around the dinner table. We'll talk about their activities or school projects. Our kids aren't natural conversationalists nor are they good at taking turns while speaking. Talking around the dinner table sometimes feels like a chore to them. Still, we keep trying - because isn't this one of the golden hours of family time?

The nights when we decide not to police their repeated bad table manners we usually get the more carefree conversations. Jon looked at me wide-eyed one evening when I just threw up my arms and joined the kids in talking about burps and farts. They love talking about that stuff. There's sure to be laughter at the table on those topics.

The other night Jon cracked a funny that had the kids rolling in laughter. He suggested that we should have named our baby Bean. Then when our kid grew up to be friends with Kit & Sara's baby, they could be: Jack & the Bean Stock. Hilarious.

What's on the Menu

I hope you are enjoying your Thanksgiving Celebrations with all the holiday classics. We are going rather non-traditional this year. We were invited to a feast with the Jonas family again this year which is SOOO appreciated. But Jacob was scheduled to get chemo (Vincristine AND Dactinomycin) that makes him feel quite nauseous. We decided to rally around him in the comforts of our home. Turns out that his counts weren't high enough to get treatment this week, so he'll get that dose next Wednesday. So thankfully he feels plenty well - there's no barfing. But now we keep him in our family bubble for a couple of days so his counts can come back up.

We are planning a cozy, comfort food meal of homemade chili & breadsticks (or maybe cornbread - I haven't completely decided). I was going to make an instant cheesecake which I love in a time crunch. Perhaps I'll let the kids make the chocolate pops with the molds we just bought (since they don't understand the divinity of cheesecake).

On Sunday we will roast our turkey with a side of my favorite rosemary roasted veggies. And just for kicks I'll make a box of Stove Top. Jon says he would like to try a new homemade roll recipe, so I won't argue. We don't need fancy for Thanksgiving.

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On the sidebar is a list that I've tried to keep this month of three things I'm thankful for each day. I have a mile long list of friends who deserve a personal shout out or a thank you card. Still the notes are unsent, not because of the lack of gratitude. My heart is deep and overflowing with thanks for the caring gestures for my family. There have been HOURS of babysitting and cleaning. We've enjoyed delicious homemade treats that were brought by. Jacob received many thoughtful gifts to comfort him during his hospital stays or clinic visits. The reassuring comments on our blog or personal e-mails have helped Jon and I through the rockiest times. The prayers offered in our behalf have lifted and healed our spirits. I am EXTREMELY aware of the kindness that has been poured out. I don't know what to say in a card. "Thank You" doesn't seem enough.

Ferry Boats & Ferris Wheel

Jessica was very excited to go on a family adventure. The boys were much less enthusiastic. "Where are we going?" they'd ask in their disgruntled voices. I spent little time on the sales pitch about how fun it would be today to go somewhere we haven't been before and instead encouraged them to get brushing their teeth and finding their shoes. Their Nintendo DS was invited to ride with us in the car too, if they got their games packed up.

We drove down to Newport Beach onto Balboa Island and then across the ferry to Balboa Peninsula. They did think it was cool that the van got to ride on the boat too. I told them it was like crossing a street, only on water. James had horrific images of being trapped on a ship for hours. Once across we took turns riding the ferris wheel. There are a number of us that are afraid of heights and at least one of us who gets dizzy/motion sick. But we each opted to ride the ferris wheel and enjoy the ocean views. Jake and I went first. We had the whole wheel to ourselves. Each time rushing up gave that whoosh in the pit of your stomach like on an elevator. Next Jon took Jessica & James. Other guests rode along, so they actually had to stop at the top a time or two.

We visited the Balboa Candy Co. and selected yummy treats. Then we continued our walk out past Peninsula Park and to the Pier. There were actually breezes that reflected the autumn season. How refreshing and kind of chilling. The ocean was beautiful and seemed to help reset my inner clock.

So if you need something to do for about $30 & a 1/4 tank of gas. Try this.

Being the Mother

I told Jessica that she couldn't watch a television show. I had my reasons, but she had her rebuttal. She said, "You are a nice mother. Why did you change into a mean mother? The mother is supposed to be nice and kind."

Working Overtime

For years I have been working the job of my dreams. I get paid EXACTLY zero dollars and zero cents per hour. Overtime clocks in at the same rate. My annual income is very reliable - zero dollars and zero cents. With the economy crashing and many jobs at risk, I thankfully am still busy as ever.

I've been on overdrive this week. So far I've missed one physical therapy appointment & one Scout Pack Meeting because I have been learning all about Thomas Bradley (the first African American Mayor of Los Angeles). It was essentially a research paper with title page and bibliography + oral presentation + craft project (make a paper doll to use creatively in your presentation). When James & I work on one of these assignments, I need the world to stop spinning. I was going WAY crazy when I was supposed to be coaching him through and the baby was crying, Dora was singing, and dinner wasn't getting prepared. Time was still ticking. But finally THAT is done. Still to come: chemo treatment (a half day event), root beer float party to celebrate James' great presentation at school, physical therapy appointment, choir rehearsal, a bit o' laundry, and somehow I've got to get out a see Twilight.

I was also racing the clock to finish my Blurb book that I started last March. I really wanted it to count for journal writing and scrapbooking. It's supposed to be easy to "slurp" your blog. The software drops all your entries into templates. But I'm a perfectionist and I have to rearrange things. I have to have more pics on a page. So I have to do a bunch of manual work. This book is 130 pages and only covers Sept-Dec of my blog LAST year. My deadline was when the clock struck midnight because that's when my $10 off coupon expired.

Yeah for me. Finished preview and spell check at 11:38 p.m. Oh no. Now it could take up to 30 minutes to upload?! Especially if you have LOTS of pictures. Oops. Don't tell me that I stayed up on Monday until 2 a.m. and on Tuesday until 1 a.m. and my coupon code is going to get rejected....

I would just like to thank the nice people at Blurb for processing my request at 12:18 a.m. and STILL accepting the promotion code. Book is on it's way via regular ground shipping. I finished something. Someone call the boss and tell him I need a raise.

It's Cool to Have the Same Friend for a Long Long Time

My friend Angela was in town for business a few weeks ago. I feel twice blessed since I was able to meet her for cheesecake AND I got together with her earlier this year when I was in Utah. We met when I was in the fifth grade. It was best to play tetherball and four square with her because she was so good and made me better. She moved for a number of years and then came back when we were Juniors (i think) in High School. I always thought it a compliment when people thought we looked like sisters.

She brought along a little gift. It's Hilary Week's newest CD. I got an autographed copy because Angela is a personal friend of Hilary's.



I instantly connected with the song, Just Let Me Cry. I could relate to every word. I've cried for a plethora of reasons- from deep in my soul ache to relief in the simplest joys. The melody will tug on your heartstrings. Let me share her lyrics:

I believe that everything happens for a reason
We're not just tossed by the wind or left in the hands of fate
But sometimes life sends a storm that's unexpected
And we're forced to face our deepest pain

When I feel the heartache begin to pull me under
I dig my heels in deep and I fight to keep my ground
Still at times the hurt inside grows stronger
And there's nothing I can do but let it out

Just let me cry
I know it's hard to see
But the pain I feel
Isn't going away today
Just let me cry
Till every tear has fallen
Don't ask when and don't ask why
Just let me cry

When I agreed that God could put this heart inside me
I understood that there would be a chance that it would break
But I know He knows exactly how I'm feeling
And I know in time He'll take the pain away
But for now

Chorus

I have felt joy the kind that makes my heart want to sing
And so my tears are not a surrender
I'll feel that way again
But for now
For this moment

Chorus

I believe that everything happens for a reason

I wish that you could hear it all for yourself. It's simply beautiful. And YOU are in luck. My friend Angela is having a GIVEAWAY on her blog. Leave her a comment and be entered to win a signed CD for yourself. Yeah!!

Just So You Know

We made play-doh WEEKS ago - like the beginning of October. Just so you know, it is still soft and usable. Pics are from back then too. I'll share the recipe below.





















Play Dough
1 c. water
1 c. four
1/4 c. salt
2 T. cream of tartar
1 T. oil
Food Coloring

Cook 3-5 minutes in a sacepan. When it starts to ball up and pull away from sides, remove from heat and knead. For color add 2 teaspoons food coloring.

Did Someone Get a Flu Shot?

I know my kids think that a day off of school means a day full of tv & video games. While I feel there was plenty of that, they also got to go get a flu shot. Yeah!!! I'm so going to be hated for that one. I didn't tell them (of course) that was where we were headed. I didn't want to carry all of them into the pediatrician's office. James did need a follow-up on his ear infections. He asked me, "so why does Jessica have to come too?" James figured it out early. As soon as Jessica found out that one of the shots was for her, she was ready to dart out of there in a flash. I had to chase her, carry her to my chair while she kicked her legs, and hold her tightly to me. "NO, NO, NO!!!!" My hand was holding her face against my chest so she wouldn't turn toward her arm. Her eyes were big as saucers.

For the finale we had Jayson's shot. I scooped him onto my lap, got hold of his arms, and exposed his thigh. He leaned into me and looked up into my eyes. He barely flinched. No crying. No screaming. No need to stay and nurse for a few minutes. What we didn't know THEN, is that he intended to be whiny, clinging, and fussy ALL DAY LONG today. Add his sore gums to that and it made for a long day for both of us.

Some of you may be asking, "Did Jacob get a flu shot? The answer is no. His oncologist is of the opinion that he goes through so many pokes already, that he can sit that one out if the rest of the family gets theirs.

Honoring Our Veteran

I know I've posted a couple of these photos before of Grandpa, but seriously - we can never get enough of him. What a joy it was for me to see him in the Parade on the 4th of July. What a fun city parade. They even topped it off with a HUGE water fight. (I've been meaning to share these pics - well, since July).

Just Another Crazy Day

5:00 a.m. - Nursing baby. James runs in to announce that Jacob is vomiting. Jon goes.
7:00 a.m. - Kids' breakfast. Family prayers. Jon off to catch train for work meeting. The flat tire from yesterday is holding. I put on shoes with pjs and drive James to school.

Morning Stuff - dishes, diapers, folding blankets, e-mail, view insurance claims (really? I get to pay $130 for my foot x-rays), re-edit fairy photo, nurse baby & let him sleep curled up on my chest, get dressed, curl hair, pack lunch box, argue with Jessica about the need to brush hair and teeth, pick up yogurt wrappers, wipe floor under high chair, dress baby, fall off the "no simple sugars" wagon & eat boxed cold cereal & granola bars with chocolate - OOPS! Clean up salad and dressing that Jessica got out.

Noon - preschool, return library books, listen to screaming baby in car, video store
1:00 p.m. - Watch part of "Journey to the Center of the Earth," nurse baby, talk on phone with sister, slice bell peppers
2:30 p.m. - Call from Jon - train delayed won't be home in time for me to leave kids home while I run carpool.
2:40 p.m. - School is out. Jacob sick and doesn't want to get in car. Call friends from school with cell phones. Leave messages on cell phones. Reach neighbor who agrees to go get James just as other friend returns phone call. Jacob barfing in the sink. Baby nursing so he isn't crying into the phone (and is he having a growth spurt??? why so mommy insistent?)
3:00 p.m. James home. Jon home. Jayson & I go to run preschool carpool.
3:30 p.m. Kids watching "Journey to the Center of the Earth" - I still haven't seen the whole thing. Jon leaves to go get formerly flat tire and currently less than perfect tire fixed because we bought the warranty.
4:00 p.m. Scrambled eggs for everyone except Jessica.

Afternoon Stuff - trip over blankets, pick up yogurt wrappers, return milk to fridge, empty dishwasher, load dishes, gather laundry, other stuff I can't remember anymore. Call pediatrician to schedule flu shots, but have to leave message on machine. Call to cancel physical therapy because it ain't gonna happen tonight.

5:30 p.m. Jessica screaming in time out. Jayson screaming anytime I put him down. Soda all over the table and kitchen tile. More plates, bowls, cups, napkins, and yogurt wrappers on the table. Trying to start spaghetti noodles, chicken strips, etc. Jon stuck at tire place because they made an error.

6:00 p.m. Kids leave to shower. Jayson agrees to eat quietly. Dinner is warming and ready. Eat. Start clean up. Jon returns home & bathes baby. Blog. Sweet smelling baby wants momma (reaches arms out to me & then dives into my neck when he gets me). Jacob has fallen asleep on couch - too tired to eat.

7:30 p.m. Jayson nursing. Jessica climbing on lap. Jon trying to salvage the rest of the kitchen.

8:05 p.m. Time for "Survivor" & a shoulder rub - thanks Sweetie. James comes back downstairs to glean a few more minutes before bedtime - offers to run my feet. Who can say no to that?

9:45 p.m. I still need to do my calf stretches & rub my feet over a tennis ball. I'll probably need to heat up my neck wrap to put on shoulders to loosen up some more. The laundry will sit until tomorrow.

Not Pretty

When did my adorable toe-headed blondie, grow up to this mask-wearing scary guy. By nature James is NOT a devil. He just fell in love with the creepy mask.

Oh My Beauty!!!

This is the most fun that Jessica & I have had on a photo shoot. Maybe it was because I promised her a doughnut. Maybe it was because plenty of people walked past and commented on how beautiful she looked. She seemed to glow.