HOT, HOT, HOT!

It's been a really strange week and I hate to admit that I haven't been out of the house a whole lot. I did go help a friend with some wedding flowers for her daughter's wedding on Thursday but other than that I have pretty much been home. I haven't really felt that great--not sick really but very low energy and pretty headache-y. I think it has something to do with how hot it has been. We have been in the 90's-100 degrees the last few weeks and I have never done well in heat.

Carly has been bugging, bugging, bugging me to find Gabby's (Douglas) address so she could send her a letter. Finally, today I tracked down the address where she could snail-mail her. Carly was so happy! We wrote Gabby a real letter and she can't wait to put it in the mail. Although, I'm kind of afraid of how crushed  Carly may be when Gabby doesn't actually come over to play and watch cartoons with Carly like she's been invited to do. Then again, hopefully, my four year old's attention span won't be long enough to remember she sent the letter or exactly what she said. I mean, I can always hope, right? It is rather cute--though, she doesn't understand Gabby is a bit of a celebrity and not just someone who can show up at her door and be her friend.

Grandpa has been busy with Alumni fundraising again. But then, you probably know that. He's probably talked to most of you. ;) He is doing really well getting around and he's talking a lot louder than before. Grandma is doing well also. All of us are just trying to stay cool. Not much else happening here. Hope all is well with you and yours.

READY TO TRAIN!

Dear Gabby,

I like you so much. Can you come over and play? We could have so much fun together! Can you come over tomorrow? I want you to teach me to do the fun stuff you do. Can I come to your house, too?  Call me, okay? Love, Carly

BYE BYE YOU

Today was a monster long day. I took Julie down to BYU today so she could look for a job. It's a little over an hour from our home.She doesn't move there for a couple of weeks still but if you want a job as a student you have to get there early and look for one. We took the young-uns with us and wow, that was a trip! Lol! Carly was actually pretty good. Jono was a typical almost 3 year old boy! He was very busy, rambuncious, loud and fast. It's just a good thing there were two of us!

Julie did manage to get one interview and applied for two jobs. She felt really good about the interview and hopefully will get a call for an interview on the other job, too.

Rob is on-call this week and he has been slammed with calls today. It's almost 3:30 a.m. and I am up waiting for him. He is finally on his way home now. I am crazy to be up still but I was too wired from our day to sleep. The kids will get up early and I will pay. :(

The funny of the day is a short conversation Jono had with Grandma this morning. We told him we were going bye-bye and where we were going so he went down to tell Grandma we were leaving. When she asked him where we were going he said "Going to Bye Bye U, Grandma!" Well, pretty darn close. Lol!

YOU KNOW WHAT?

I AM

COMPLETELY

HOPELESSLY

100 PERCENT

MADLY

IN LOVE WITH THIS GUY!

TALK ABOUT CROSSED WIRES

It's been a long day and my head hurts so this will be short. It's been a pretty good day though. I taught today and honestly, for the first time, I felt pretty good about my lesson. What was different. I prayed alot, stopped looking at my notes and relied on the Lord. Seriously. I told him He had to teach and asked him to bring the spirit to the class. It was the best class I've had.

Tonight, I told the little ones they could go for a bike ride. They were so excited. We got out on the sidewalk and headed to a friend's house. We weren't more than a block when Carly looked up and saw lightening a good ways off. She said it out loud and that was it for Jono. He climbed up me and wouldn't let go. So there I was with one toddler bike with training wheels with no toddler on it. One toddler bike with a toddler riding it and a new thirty pound growth on my left side with two blocks to go and a storm coming. "Let's go home." I say. "NO!" Says, the four year old. I keep trying to shake loose this new attachment on my left side but it won't budge. I'm now dragging the bike--because it's hard to lean over that far with a weight attached. I can't ride it--I'll break it. My four year old was promised a ride and she's GOING to get it. My two (almost three) year old is terrified and holding my left side hostage. GAH!

Finally, we make it to our friends house just as little raindrops start coming down. We knock on the door and her husband answers it and looks at us really puzzled. As I start to ask for his wife and daughter, he asks me where his wife and daughter are. Apparently, we left our houses at the same time thinking we would meet on the way but took different streets. Jonathon is nearly beside himself and tried to force his way inside for shelter. I pull him out and tell him we will call Dad. I call Rob and ask if my friend has gotten there. He says "No." Now I'm really confused but I just ask him to get in the van and come get us. He calls back ten seconds later and says she arrived as soon as he hung up. In the end, we all found each other--but my arm is sore and I've decided I'm not going on a bike ride again until I've checked the weather report!

DAY IS DONE, GONE THE SUN

Started out doing errands today. We ran into a beautiful black woman and her daughter at Sams who had lovely braids in their hair. I always ask who did their hair. It turned out the mother had done them and offered to do Carly's hair. I was thrilled. She had time today so we rushed our shopping trips and got together with her and she did a beautiful job on her. She is really quick but it took  a lot longer than planned because we had to take out Carly's old braids and they had been in for a while and were really tiny. It took a long time to take those out. At any rate, she looks adorable--and of course, I have not yet taken a photo--so, tomorrow!

Julie had a date tonight with a new young man named James. He seemed really nice and was very respectful to us and to her. They went out with another couple and played croquet and had a picnic. It was cute. But since she's leaving soon I'm hoping it is a one and done. She needs to do some dating at school while she is there. None of this long distance stuff. (Like I really have a say--you know. Lol!) Well nighty night!

THREE, TWO, ONE . . . LIFT OFF!

I noticed yesterday on a certain social network my sister Sarah was lamenting that she only had 15 days until her daughter Caitie leaves for college. I've been trying hard not to do a countdown myself but it's really difficult when I know our daughters are leaving only 3 days apart. (Thanks a lot, Sarah!) I don't want to constantly remind myself that in less than 3 weeks my oldest baby girl is no longer going be sleeping under the same roof for the first time since I've been sleeping under this roof. (Tears now streaming down cheeks.) And frankly Scarlett--I dunno what I'm gonna do without her. If Sarah lived closer I guess we could cry on each other's shoulder's and start hanging out together--but that isn't going to happen.

In reality, I'm as worried about Carly and Jono's reaction to not having her here as I am my own. They don't know life without her. In fact, Jono gets really upset if he gets up in the morning and she has already left for work and he hasn't had the chance to give her a hug. So--this could be a little traumatic for him. We may just have to figure out this whole Skype thing. I've never tried it but I know lots of people use it and love it. And it's not like she's leaving the country. She will only be a little over an hour away. She just won't be here everyday. Things definitely won't be the same around here without our little Picklehead. (You know, I'm not sure how she got that nickname--but she seems to like it so no harm, no foul. Lol!)

THE GIFT OF GABBY

It's all about Gabby at our house! Have you been watching the Olympics? Well, Gabby Douglas is so amazing! She is the latest, greatest solid gold gymnast and Carly, Jono and well, O.K. the rest of us are head over heals in love with her! We have watched everything she performed and think she is fantastic! Tonight Carly asked me if I thought we could go see her. I told her I didn't think so. Then she asked if we could have her come over and play. Hmmm. Explaining logistics and stardom is going to be a challenge but I think I'm up for it! Hopefully, we will see more of Gabby after the Olympics. Maybe she will pick up some sponsorships! Way to go Gabby!

TAKING A STAND FOR WHAT'S RIGHT AND TRUE

Today, as a family we took a stand and we did it at our favorite chicken restaurant. We went to Chick-Fil-A for dinner. I'm sure you've heard of the controversy where the owner spoke up for traditional marriage and all of left wing America came down on him and his business for it. The left called for a boycott of Chick-fil-A and even talked of not allowing them to open restaurants in certain cities across the nation--though those cities had to back off that later. That's a simplified version of what occurred but what it comes down to is the fact that this situation is about a whole lot more than chicken and boycotts. In fact, it hits at the very heart of our first amendment rights--first, at our right to freedom of speech and second, our right to freedom of religion.

Dan Cathy, the owner of Chick-fil-A, was asked in a recent interview how he felt about certain issues and he answered those questions. What most angered the left was that he stood up for traditional marriage. They didn't like this at all. It is my personal opinion they were baiting him so they could cause a controversy, but I can't prove it. At any rate, he has the right to his beliefs and opinion and to speak his mind. Dan Cathy is a very religious man -- all Chick-fil-A's are closed on Sundays and he treats his employees well.

For me this has become the camel in the tent argument. For years those who believe in something other than traditional marriage begged and pleaded for tolerance from us. I think to a large degree many of us gave that tolerance--and even love. Then they asked for civil unions--they needed the insurance and security. We said -- we understand, and said 'O.K to those. Then, they asked for marriage because they wanted exactly what men and women who are married have. Many of us believe that is one step too far because we believe marriage to be a sacred union between a man and a woman. It seems now that the entire camel is in the tent and we find ourselves on the outside looking in. We are now the ones who must ask for tolerance of our beliefs--only when we do, there is none. Absolutely none. It is as if they have never been on the other side of this equation--never walked a mile in these shoes. How quickly they forgot the tolerance we gave.

For me, standing in an hour and a half long line in 92 degree heat tonight was not at all about buying chicken or supporting a company I was afraid might go bankrupt if I didn't. For me, standing in that line tonight was standing up and being counted as a Christian, as a daughter of God who is willing to say out loud "I know my Savior Lives!" I Love Him! I read and understand his word and I will not be dragged about by the winds of this world. I know right from wrong and good from evil. Jesus Christ lives and He loves us and he wants us to follow HIM! He wants us to choose the right way not the popular way or the loudest or easiest way.

I don't do lines, seriously, I don't. I will drive out of my way to avoid standing in a line. I'd rather have a root canal than stand in a line. But tonight, I felt privileged and proud to stand up and be counted for Christ--because in my mind--that's what I was doing. This world isn't getting easier, it's getting harder. It's not getting lighter, it's getting darker. Our choices have to be the right ones, at the right times in the right places. As time goes on I feel like we are going to find ourselves forced into more and more of these corners where we have to choose--and I wish all of us Godspeed.

This line outside wrapped around the building and once inside snaked around two and half times. We waited an hour and a half to get our food from 7 p.m to 8:30 p.m. They opened at 10:30 in the morning and had been hit hard all day long. I called another Chick-Fil-A in the mall nearby to see if their line was shorter and they said they were really busy too but were almost out of food! Yay for conservative Christians!

It's a little hard to tell here but this is a view of the line. There weren't really very many people at tables because most were in the lines. The lines were several people thick and snaked more than twice through the restaurant before you could order. All this while the drive-through had two lanes backed up to the street full the whole time!

This is a view of the drive-through coming from two directions and backed up to the street from both. It was almost dark when we left and it was still backed up like this. I feel for their employees. They were working so hard!

Carly, Rob and Jono right as we were getting in line! Still chipper, before our hunger and thirst got pounding!

OLYMPIC TUMBLING HERE THEY COME

We have been watching the Olympics the last several days and you know it--I have two tiny Olympians! Carly and Jono are so funny. They especially love the gymnastic competitions. They are all about the tumbling and flipping. I'm a little nervous they are going to hurt themselves!

It takes me back to my youth watching the Summer Olympics. I remember loving the track and field. I remember we decided we were going to be runners and train for the next Olympics. (We were so naive--O.K. dumb.) So between races we would go out and run around the P.C.A. building to start training. Yah, it didn't last long. I mean it was really hot and humid--and it was exercise. Lol!

It is funny to see the same characteristics in my little ones, though. After every gymnast finishes Jono and Carly start running, jumping, tumbling and saying "Watch me Mom! Watch!" So cute. Especially when they think they are doing the same difficult things the gymnasts are doing and they are just running and doing a child's somersault. Lol!
 

A LITTLE NOSTALGIA

I found these photos and thought it would be fun to share them. My mom is Carolyn, the littlest girl, in the first picture. The second picture is of the family farm where all these kids grew up and where my cousins and I romped and played as we were growing up. The third is a picture of my mom and her sister Kaye when they were a few years older than in the first picture. My mom and Kaye are the only two siblings left in their family having just lost their oldest sister Louise earlier this year. It's still hard to believe somedays that I'm all grown up and not still a little kid playing on this farm with my Grandma watching over me. Sigh. :)

The Flint kids, L to R, Louise, Marcia, Kaye, Carolyn and Glenn

The Flint Farm

Kaye and Carolyn Flint

ON A CLEAR DAY . . .

Today Rob and I went to get new glasses. We've been going to get our eyes checked all year long but we finally got there today. Yay! We will once again be able to see! I only wear my glasses at night since I wear contacts. Unfortunately for me, Jono broke my glasses quite a while ago and  I've been wearing this glued together pair that really doesn't look all that terrific. It has just taken us so long to find the time to make an appointment and actually get new ones ordered. Check one major thing off list!

This evening we had a bbq and set off our fireworks for pioneer day. Seeing as how we are only three days late for celebrating that event, I think we are doing pretty good! We had Rob's brother and his girlfriend and their families over. It was a lot of fun.

The weather here has been so hot! It was up around 100 again today. It's the kind of weather where you don't go outside unless you absolutely have to. Unfortunately, we have had to for several things. I think I am allergic to heat. Well, you know--the really hot kind of heat. Lol! It's late, I'm going to bed before I say other things like that. Night all.

A FABULOUS EVENING~WITH MARY CHAPIN CARPENTER

For Mother's Day and Father's Day this year Rob and I gave each other concert tickets. We have a local amphitheater that brings in summer concerts and we each had a different one we wanted to see so we got each other tickets. Tonight we went to see my concert and it was fabulous. It was Mary Chapin Carpenter. She is a country music star and writes and sings her own music. We had front row, center seats--the best ones in the amphitheater. We set our alarms the morning they went on sale so we could call right when they opened and apparently were one of their first calls. It was worth it! Loved, Loved, Loved it!

LET'S GET PHYSICAL

Grandpa got a pretty hard work-out today from Jennifer his physical therapist. He was still feeling it this evening when I went down to say hi. He is making progress though-so I think it's worth it. What is it they say--no pain, no gain?! I know, that's easy for me to say,

Speaking of exercise, I need to get back on the treadmill myself. I keep fighting with 5-7 lbs. They drive me nuts! Of course, if I wasn't such a sugar-hound I wouldn't have the problem but I love sweets. Anything chocolate, cookies, candy, it's all trouble.

Tonight I had a huge hankering for chicken wings. Yes, I used the word "hankering." Since Granny Klampett died, I think it's way under-used so I'm just giving it some play. Lol! Anyway, I didn't even know I liked chicken wings (hot wings) until about a month ago and now I LOVE them! So, we ordered out for them and had them as our 9:30 p.m. dinner. I think Grandpa was the only one who didn't indulge. Even Jono got in on the act! Carly loves them, too. She even ate more than Julie did, but she is in a growth spurt and Julie isn't feeling very well.

Speaking of growth spurts--my 4.5 year old is in size 12 children's shoes and my almost 3 year old is in size 8 children's shoes. I think I have a couple a "BIG FOOT'S" on my hands. They both also have really long fingers. I'm thinking basketball, piano, neurosurgery . . . ;) They will both have lots of options. That's for sure.

Well, it's late. Better get to bed. Night all.

TONS OF FUN

Yesterday we took the kids to a fun center where they had all you can eat pizza, salad, desserts, etc. and then all kinds of games. We spent nearly six hours there with them and they had a blast. We bowled, drove go-karts, rode a carousel, drove little cars, went on small rides, played games and arcades. Really, I think the only things we didn't get to were mini-golf and bumper cars--and Carly and Jono were too short to do  the bumper cars. That didn't matter since there were so many other things to do. The great thing was we were able to get this deal on one of the internet specials so it hardly cost anything to go and do. It really was a lot of fun. The only problem was the kids wanted to know if they could go back tomorrow! ;)

Today was a state holiday. We didn't do anything to celebrate, though. We are going to do our celebrating on Friday when Rob's brother and his family are available. Although, there were big parades today and fireworks this evening. Lots of businesses were closed today. It's Pioneer Day--a celebration of when the pioneers first came into the valley in 1847. So, Happy Pioneer Day to you!

BLESS YOUR HEART

Today I had one of those moments when as a mommy I was so proud I almost cried. I had fixed lunch and was hurrying to get things done so we could get the kids down for a nap. We were planning to take the kids for a fun outing later in the day so wanted them to have a nap first. Anyway, I had lunch on the table and the kids there ready to eat. I asked who wanted to say the blessing and Carly spoke up and asked me if she could say it all by herself. I was surprised because she used to love to say prayers (always with help) but for the last several months she has been really shy and reticent about saying them. So, lately when I ask it has been like pulling teeth to get her to take her turn. She has never asked to say them all by herself so I don't know what brought this on but it made me very proud.

I tried not to act surprised and I told her I would love for her to say the blessing by herself. Then, we all bowed our heads and folded our arms and Carly prayed this blessing:

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for my family. Thank you for my mommy and daddy. Thank you for my sisters and my brother. Thank you for my Grandma and Grandpa and for my other Grandma. Thank you for our food. Please bless it. Help us be good. We love you and we love Jesus. In Jesus name, Amen

Wow. I was really overwhelmed at my grown up little four year old. Julie was in the kitchen with me when this happened and she can attest that I was struck with amazement. It was a minute or so until I really wanted to say anything--but I did give Carly great big hugs and kisses and tell her how proud I am of her and how proud I know her Heavenly Father is of her. The spirits coming to earth in these last days are such strong, amazing individuals. I am truly blessed to be this little girl's mom and I thank the Lord for her every single day!

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Yah, you just try to get a normal picture of a two year old and a four year old. Go ahead, I double dog dare you. Lol!

By the way, I didn't ask him to dress this way. The costume was his idea. I just wanted to take a nice picture on a Sunday. He insisted on the dragon costume. So, Rob suggested the blog title. I like it.

Couple of cute, crazy kids, don't ya think? Yah, me too. I kind of like them. They are worth all the tantrums and the time-outs -- and I'm just talking about the throw! Lol! Truly though, these are my little love bugs. ;)

MY SATURDAY EVENING POST ;)

We worked hard all day today so we played all evening. Well, something like that. We spent the day organizing and cleaning, then this evening Rob and I took Julie to a play. One of my friend's had several family members in Fiddler on the Roof at a local playhouse and we've been wanting to take Julie to a musical before she leaves for college so we went to see it. Megan came over and watched Carly and Jono so we could go. Not only did we have a good time but the little ones had a blast too! They were so glad to have Megan come watch them they didn't even get upset when I left, which is totally unlike them!

When I got home tonight, I checked in with Grandma and Grandpa. Grandma was up reading but Grandpa was totally crashed. He has had physical therapy several times this week and been doing his homework and I guess he is just completely worn out! He just looked so tired. I can't tell you how amazing he is doing, though. The difference is so huge between what he could do before and what he is doing now. It's so great!

Well, gotta get some sleep before the Sabbath. Have a terrific Sunday. Night all.

SAD, SENSELESS, HORRIFIC

What a terrible day. I hate waking up to tragic news--especially when it is so senseless and horrific. I mean what else can you say about something like this? Does his motive really matter when it won't make a lot of sense to us anyway? There is no motive good enough to explain what this madman did. How do you go into a crowded theater and mow people down with a gun--especially children? There is no making sense of this. The best I can come up with in my own mind is that this man decided to embrace evil and as he did good people lost their lives in a horrific and tragic way. It would only be crazy-making for us to try to make sense of it. My heart and prayers go out to all those affected by this tragedy including this shooter's family for they are victim's too. 

SOCIAL MEDIA 101

My sister Sarah and I went to breakfast today with a former roommate of ours. We hadn't seen her in 27 years. Sarah found her recently on one the Internet. We had such a great time catching up. We spent nearly 3 hours talking and even then we weren't done but Sarah was supposed to be somewhere else so we had to break it up. It's so nice to find friends from your past and share fun memories. I'm continually surprised at all the things I've forgotten when I find friends from years past and they remind me of something. Sometimes I have to think pretty hard to remember what they are talking about. You know when you are young you don't think you will ever forget the things you go through or the stuff you do. Then pretty soon you turn around and it's been decades since you've thought of those years and you hardly remember anything--or sometimes anyone. In that sense, I think social media has been a good thing. I know it has its detractors and there are lots of ills you can point to but for people like me it's a virtual class reunion--and that's a positive thing. It's a great way to catch up with people you once cared a lot about but because of time and distance you literally may never see again. For me, it has been so much fun finding former friends and roommates and seeing what they are up to and what they created with their lives. Yay for social media!

A VISIT FROM THE GRANDS

Aunt Sarah, Caitlin and Ian came today to see Grandma and Grandpa. Although, Carly and Jono think they are here to visit them  :) so let's just keep that last fact between us, O.K.? Lol! We have been having a fun visit. We all went out to eat tonight. There were ten of us so it was a lively crowd. Even the little ones behaved themselves, though.

Grandpa had his physical therapy today and is doing really well with it. He is making tremendous progress. We are really pleased with his therapist. She is tailoring the program to Grandpa's specific needs. We really like her. He has had the best doctors and helpers out here.

After dinner tonight we all just came back to the house and hung out and talked. It was nice to be together as a family. We don't get to see much of Sarah and her family so it's always nice when they come visit. Well, that's if for today. Take care all. 

MY SLEEPY LITTLE GUY

This almost never happens anymore--but I love it when it does. He didn't get a nap so he was really tired when I gave him his breathing treatment and he just fell plum asleep in my arms. What a sweetie-pie. I love this little guy SOOOOO MUCH!

I SURRENDER--OR DO I?

I just had one of those impossible to win conversations with my four year old. We had just finished watching a movie that had a rainbow in it and she asked me if rainbows ever come down closer to us. I told her they don't; they stay up high in the sky. She said: "No Mom, I mean, do they ever come down here right by us? Again, I repeated, "No honey, rainbows are very high in the sky." "But Mom" She protested, "Do they ever come down close enough for us to get on and ride them?" "No sweetie, they don't. We can't ride them, they are just colors made of air." "But Mom, just sometimes-can we ride them?" "Honey, that's not how it works?" "Just sometimes Mom?" "Carly you can't ride them--there's nothing to ride?" "Please Mom--just sometimes?" "Honey, the colors are made of air and you can't ride air? There isn't anything to ride" "Maybe--just sometimes--please?" O.K--maybe. (Conversation Over)

A few years ago my brother in law and his kids stayed with us for awhile. My niece was about Carly's age and just at the "I want" stage. Every time a commercial came on during cartoons with some new kid's toy she would say to either her dad or me "I want that--can I have that?" If the answer wasn't some form of "Yes" we either got to have a similar conversation as the one above (multiple times daily) or there was pouting or sadness to deal with. When I had my own kids I braced for those stupid commercials and the aftermath they could cause--but I came up with what has so far worked out to be a clever solution. At least so far I have not had it smack me up the side of the head. We will see how it goes. Whenever Carly says, "Mom, can I have that?" or "I want that?" I simply reply with "I'll add it to the list." (Now we have talked enough that she knows the list I'm referring to is either for her birthday or Christmas--or some future event.)

I have made the mistake before of saying "I don't know" or "We'll see" and that turns into a begging/pleading session--but "I'll add it to your list" has satisfied her from the moment I started saying it. In fact, she has sometimes double checked with me after the cartoon was over to make sure I got such and such added to the list. I always say, "Oh, I'll do that" or something to that effect. And yes folks, I have been through a birthday and Christmas since I started doing this and haven't used this list at all and she didn't miss a thing!
I take that back--I think we did see pillow pets on a commercial first and then got her one--but that's the only thing I remember getting from "The LIST. Most of these commercials appear to be send away items that are fairly expensive and I'm not sure they wouldn't be rip-offs anyway.

I know, I know--one of these days I am going to be found out! Hopefully by then she will be at an age where I can reason with her and help her understand she can't have every single cute thing she sees. In the meantime, I will just add it to the list. Oh, and if you have a complaint about the way I am handling this--I have a list for that too. :)

HAPPY DAY

Carly and Jono were feeling better enough today I was able to let them go and play at a friend's house after they took naps. They were in Heaven--at least they thought so! It was pretty nice to have some quiet time around here as well. Although, I spent it doing chores--but still I wasn't chasing kids and trying to do chores at the same time. Small blessings. I'll take them. :)

ALL OF THE ABOVE

Hahaha! Today one of my friends who has had grandchildren visiting for several weeks called to ask me "How I do it?" I laughed out loud--because some days I honestly don't know how I am going to get through the day with everything on my plate.

My friend went on to explain how worn out she is and how much work it has been than she expected. She has taken time off work to help care for her grand kids while they are here and she said it's been really mind opening--(or was that mind-numbing?)  Anyway, she has a lot of respect for her daughter, and me and other mom's who spend their days raising their children. She was just having a moment and wondered how - on those difficult days we get through them.

Well, if this is a multiple choice test, my answer is "All of the above." It's the only answer, for me, that fits. I get through it by laughing, crying, praying for guidance, playing with them, sometimes yelling (not my best suit), giving time outs, pleading with them to behave and do what's right, NAPS--always nap when they do if you can, and threatening them with Daddy. Oh, I know that's not cool--but sometimes it's the only thing that works. In our home it's called: Mad, Madder. Maddest. Dad! Lol!

At any rate--you can see I don't have all the answers. I am on the "learn as I go" and "learn from other's mistakes" plans. And in that process, I'm really hoping to raise productive, healthy citizens--or at the very worst -- not screw them up too badly. :0

SICK KIDS = NO FUN

The kids have been going stir crazy. They have been locked up in the house with an illness since just after the 4th and it is driving them nuts. It is driving me nuts too. They haven't been able to have friends over or go out and play so they are torturing each other and their mother! Tonight I gave in and took them out for a snow cone and that seemed to take the edge off. It will still be a few days though before they can go back to their normal routine. I hope we all can make it! Wish us luck!

BABY GIRL IS GROWING UP

Check out my grown up baby girl! Can you believe how big she is getting? Isn't she a beauty? This was taken at the fireworks show we went to this year. She is not quite 4 1/2 so why does it seem like she is going on thirty? She is such a bright little girl! I just love her so much! :)

SLEEP PLEASE

Grandpa is really making progress in his walking and being able to get up to a standing position by himself. Grandma said he was able to stand up real quick today about twenty times. That's his homework. I guess he has to practice in between sessions. Anyway, he is walking and talking better. So much progress!

Rob is passing another kidney stone. Poor guy--and he's been doing it while being on-call this weekend. He spent another 7 hours called out today. He was really hit hard this time. Luckily he is through being on-call tomorrow morning.

Carly and Jono are still sick. Jono especially has had a hard time sleeping through the night because his mouth and throat have been bothering him so much. Hopefully, all this will pass soon--since when kids don't sleep through the night--neither does the Mamma. :)

TO DO OR NOT TO DO . . .

Rob is on-call this weekend but we dared to make a to-do list for around the house anyway hoping he wouldn't actually be called out. The universe laughed out-loud at us! He has been called out more this weekend than I remember him being called out in a long time. Needless to say our list is completely intact--and awaiting our attack another day. Then on his way home tonight from a call someone not paying attention to the traffic stopping in front of them rear-ended him. A lovely way to end a very long day. Poor guy. As for me -- I am just extremely thankful no one was hurt. :0

MY KIDDOS

Here are four of my kids. Julie and Jono and Megan and Carly. This was taken on the 4th of July at our fireworks celebration. The little kids had a blast with their big sisters! Just thought I'd share. :)

YAY FOR BIG!

I think Grandpa had a pretty good birthday today. He spoke with lots of his friends who called to tell him they were thinking of him. I know that means a lot to him.

We low-keyed it -- though not purposefully. We probably would have done more for his birthday but I woke up to two very sick kids. my kids were sick. Jonathon's fever was over 100 all day and finally spiked at 102.5 had a fever over a hundred all day. It finally spiked to 102.5. I took both him and Carly to the doctor so that took a good chunk of time.

We ordered dinner out and brought it home. All of us were just wasted.  We took gifts down for Grandpa to open after dinner but I wouldn't let him open the last one until he got up and walked for me. You see, I kept hearing these stories from Rob, Mom and Julie about how amazingly Grandpa was walking! They kept telling me things like, "He just stands right up, doesn't even have trouble getting up. Then he takes off . . ."

That sounded pretty foreign to me because we have been having to help Grandpa stand up, get him his walker and stay pretty close to him while he walks. (See why I was a little skeptical?) Actually, I wasn't. I just wanted to see the miracle for myself! He has only worked with this new physical therapist twice on this program called BIG and it is amazing. I did tell him he had to get up and go get his last present from Julie, who was standing in his doorway or he couldn't have it. He just got up and walked across the room and back for me, not hunched over at all--and without any help. WOW! Almost enough to make a daughter cry!

I love my Dad so much! It makes me so happy to see him able to move better -- because I know he will be able to do more and that will make him feel better and be happier. Yay for BIG! Yay for DAD! Yay! Yay! Yay!

Happy Birthday Dad! I really do love you. Oh, and while you're up, could you vacuum the downstairs floors? (KIDDING!)

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

We had a great day with family. Susan, Russ and their kids came up and we grilled and had a nice summer pot luck dinner. Then we had cake and ice cream and sang to Grandpa! Sarah wasn't able to make it but is going to try to come up next week sometime. We saved some cake for tomorrow so we can do it all over again. Maybe we'll try a surprise party tomorrow just to liven things up a bit! How about that Grandpa?

After dark, Rob and I took the kids and went with some friends to watch fireworks. Even Megan went with us! The fireworks were terrific and lasted a long time. Everyone, except JONO loved them! He thought they were too loud and scary and wanted to come home. Although, they sure did make him want to cuddle! I think he secretly liked them but didn't want to admit it. He just doesn't like loud noises--but then neither does Carly. They have been like that since they were tiny. I did get him to sit still and watch them but he refused to like them--even though he would name the colors for me. Funny kid! Happy Independence Day!

LET'S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!

Carly had a fever last night as she was going to bed and it lasted all night long. She didn't sleep much nor did her mother. I think I got about twenty minutes~seriously. Given that, I'm surprised at how awake I've been all day. Anyway, her fever continued all day today and even a little tonight. I've been able to get it down a bit here and there with Tylenol but it goes right back up when it wears off. She did have a bit of a headache late in the day but other than that she hasn't had any other symptoms.

Grandpa had something over the weekend and it lasted for a day or so and then went away. I am hoping this will do the same. Although, Jono was a bit warm when I put them to bed tonight. Gah, it's spreading. :(

Rob and I went and signed Carly and Jono up for city league soccar today. It doesn't start until late August but they are pretty excited. They got uniforms and they had to wear them all day long!

Tomorrow starts Grandpa's annual birthday celebration! His birthday isn't actually until the 5th but we like to get started early and tag onto the fireworks. I mean, why pay for extra party things when someone is already doing it for you, right?! Lol! Happy Birthday Daddy! I ordered these big colorful bright lights in the sky just for you!! Love you! :)

DON'T YOU DARE . . . TURN AROUND ;)

I was going shopping today so I took Julie with me and bought her some clothes for college. We figured it out and she has less than 8 weeks until she starts. Yikes! That isn't very much time to accomplish all she has left to do. I sure hope she can get everything done in time!

My job isn't hard--I just have to remind her of all the stuff she has to do (which, unfortunately, really annoys her.) Sorry honey. :(

She doesn't believe it, but, I am actually NOT trying to annoy her. Having worked on a college campus (in fact--the very one she is going to) for twenty years and been directly involved with freshman and freshman orientation for most of those years, I do actually know what is going on--and a lot of what she needs to prepare for. However, I am beginning to realize I just play the mom in this scene and she plays the teenager. I have no other value . . . which is hard when I know I have all kinds of answers and assistance inside me if she only wanted them.

It's hard to get used to the idea that children believe their parents know next to nothing. Of course, it's also hard to get used to the idea that teenagers believe they know everything--especially when it's not our brains that have changed. ;) But I guess as parents we get to deal with this "Know it all/I have all the answers/I don't need you anymore" stage at about age 5 or 6 and again when they hit 13 and then again at age 18. Will someone remind me when is it we get really smart again? Isn't it when they hit thirty or thirty five? Because I am just certain I am way overdue for some of that "getting really smart again" stuff"! If I took a couple of my kids and added their ages together I could get there!

Seriously though, what happens to our cute, cuddly kids?! One day all they want to do is have you hold them and hug them and the next they are just way too grown up! Oh yah, someone wrote a song about this didn't they . . .

Where are you going, my little one, little one
Where are you going, my baby, my own?
Turn around and you're two, turn around and you're four
Turn around and you're a young girl going out of my door

Turn around, turn around
Turn around and you're a young girl going out of my door

Where are you going, my little one, little one
Little dirndls and petticoats, where have you gone?
Turn around and you're tiny, turn around and you're grown
Turn around and you're a young wife with babes of your own

Turn around, turn around
Turn around and you're a young wife with babes of your own

Turn around, turn around
Turn around and you're the young girl going out of the door

Where are you going, my little one, little one
Where are you going, my baby, my own?

I'M NOT CERTAIN . . .

But I think these guys like each other . . .

DADDY'S HOME!

Grandpa had his evaluation for the new physical therapy program today. This is the one to help him walk and get around better. They decided he wasn't ready to start it yet. He needs a bit of physical therapy to straighten himself out first (I've always known he needed straightening out!)--O.K. maybe it was straighten up. He has been leaning over and hunching over a bit too much so they are going to work with him to correct that and then hopefully get him in this program.

Grandpa graduated (summa cum laude), O.K. just kidding--but his physical therapist was REALLY proud of him, from his vocal training last week. He is speaking so much louder than he had been. He has to practice every day but it is helping so much! Yay!

Rob has been away for two weeks in training. I never like to say that until he is back home--just for safety reasons. I am so glad he is back. I thought I would never survive two weeks with two toddlers without him!  In fairness, it was mostly, Jonathon who kept things interesting.  He is  is SO TWO! He really only listens to his dad and with Rob gone for two weeks it was a real test of my patience and skill. Although, he did a lot better than I expected -- and maybe so did I.

Jono is going to be three in a couple of months and I really hope he will begin to mature a bit. Everyone tells me three is worse than two, but it really wasn't with Carly. Maybe it's the difference between boys and girls but I swear this child is determined to break his neck. He climbs on things and jumps off them and terrifies his poor mother. I can hardly turn my back for fear he is into something that will hurt him or on something that he will dive off of and knock himself silly. Tell me mom's -- is it a boy thing -- or is it my boy's thing? He is so full of it! Well, either way--at least Daddy is home to help now and Mommy is SO HAPPY!

He looks so innocent here doesn't he? Don't be fooled! Lol! He was so tired he fell asleep on Rob's lap tonight. He NEVER does that! I had to capture it on camera!

Jono with his Daddy and best buddy. Jono was so happy to see him! (Although this picture was taken right before Rob left for training-I still think it is so cute!)

SCOTUS WHO?

I was afraid it wasn't going to be good news from the Supreme Court but I had no idea the Chief Justice would try to re-write the White House's argument for them. Did you? Holy Cow! And most people thought he was a conservative. I guess, the silver lining if there is one, is that since yesterday Independents and even some Democrats--if pundits are to be believed are lining up behind Mitt Romney. Truly, and this is my opinion, if we don't replace this President, hold onto the House and gain a majority in the Senate, those of us who have decent healthcare will lose it. Those who don't have healthcare may gain some small amount of healthcare but it will not be good medical care because there will be less doctors to provide it, too many people in line, too much paperwork and too many rules and regulations. Our elderly and at risk populations are going will be at the mercy of bureaucrats who couldn't care less about them. This will be our national nightmare unless we act as a nation with our votes. I hope our electorate understands how serious this is. We now have to protect ourselves. Our President did not protect us. Our representatives did not protect us. The Supreme Court did not protect us. It is now -- and finally us to us. If we don't do it, no one will. IF WE FAIL TO DO IT . . . WE HAVE FAILED OURSELVES. IT COMES TO THIS, IF WE WANT OBAMACARE TO GO, WE MUST REPLACE OBAMA!  PASS IT ON.  ;)

ONE FLU OVER THE CUCKOOS NEST

The morning after--and of course, Jono got sick today. He threw up three times but somehow that didn't stop him from being rambunctious for the rest of the day. I guess it was the twenty minute flu. I guess if you have to get a bug, that's the one to get! :)

WELL DARN

Our candidate didn't win . . . by quite a lot. But, he was so gracious and good, not only with Orrin Hatch, but with his supporters that it sure made us wish he had even more. Luckily, he is a young buck and hopefully we can get him to run again in the future. He ran such a clean, honest campaign. That cannot be said of his opponent. But I digress.

We had a great time working for his campaign all these months. And today Julie and I baked up a storm. We made a bunch of desserts to take down to the campaign party. They had food for everyone but people were bringing desserts kind of potluck. Julie baked nearly 175 chocolate chip cookies and I baked four cakes. There was a ton of food there and a ton of people. Although, we still managed to have a few leftover cookies and a quite a bit of leftover cake. Somehow, I don't think Grandpa will complain. Do you? :)

DAN'S THE MAN

Today Julie and I went out and worked one of the precincts in our city for our senate candidate. Tomorrow (Tuesday) is our Primary.

His name is Dan Liljenquist and he has done amazing things for our state. As a freshman senator he eliminated pensions for utah legislators. He took on runaway entitlements like double dipping in the state pension system and out-of-control medicaid costs and reformed them. We are just so impressed with him.

Unfortunately, he is behind in the polls. We are really hoping somehow he pulls it out. He is running against a 36 year incumbent. Yes, that's correct, it's not a typo, a 36 year incumbent--going for 42 years. Maybe you've heard of him--Orrin Hatch? Ring any bells? He needs to come home as badly as Richard Lugar needed did. Sadly, he has made so much money in D.C. (How do they do that? Oh yah, insider trading and lobbyists.) I'm afraid he has been able to buy himself another election. I don't think he can afford to retire.

If you don't agree with my opinions or politics, I apologize, kind of. I mean, this is an opinion blog so you kind of have to expect my opinion once-in-a-while. Just sayin' . . .

And if you can vote here and haven't yet---and are so inclined . . . VOTE FOR DAN!

NADALOTGOINGON

I taught Sunday School today. Rob and Julie both had to work and since Jonathon can't go I thought it best to leave both kids at home. I went over just for Sunday School so I wouldn't be gone too long. Grandma and Grandpa kept the kids busy watching cartoons for that hour. Megan came over for a couple of hours this evening.

The third dog finally went home around 9 p.m. tonight--THE RIGHT WAY. His owners picked him up. Yay! So tired of having dogs under my feet! Nothing else going on here. I guess being boring is okay. :)

THE BEST LAID PLANS

I started a diet yesterday and I darn near started it again today. Hopefully, I will really start it again tomorrow. If not, on Monday for sure! :)

IMPROVEMENT

Maybe some of you who are talking to Dad/Grandpa on the phone can tell the difference already but he is doing really great with his vocal training. His therapist taped him the first time she came and then again the other day and the difference is quite remarkable. He had gotten so bad he was almost whispering at times. I remember my Grandpa Carson sounding almost the same way. He had Parkinson's also.

I had a runaway Labradoodle tonight. I didn't even know it for who knows how long. I went to get the dogs gathered up for bed and was short one dog. I looked everywhere for him and no "Charlie." I checked outside and every room in the house. I was getting panicky--but I knew no one had let him out. I couldn't figure where he could be. Finally, I decided I needed to drive around and look for him anyway. But, I decided to start by going to his owner's home figuring if he had gotten out he would have gone there. Sure enough, he was sitting on the porch. DUMB POOCH!

I came home with him and Julie told me something she remembered from yesterday. She said she remembered there being some dirt on his nose and then looking around the yard and seeing a little hole he'd dug by the fence. So, she and I went out with a flashlight and sure enough, he'd dug his way to China! I didn't know we were such bad hosts! Either that or he is seriously homesick! Sorry Charlie, but no one is going to be there to feed you for a few more days--so you may want to hang around for a bit! Anyway, Julie and I got some extra bricks we had laying around and blocked his exit. Again--with the DUMB POOCH! Gah! Like I don't have enough to worry about. Plus, I don't need a pooch teaching Jonathon how to get out of the yard without having to climb the fence! :)

JUST THE NORM

Julie had the day off today which was helpful. We got quite a bit done around the house. We even got the kid's room clean!

Grandpa has one more week of his vocal/throat training left and then in July he is going to work with a different physical therapist on a similar special program for walking and movement. We are really hopeful it will help him be able to get around better.

We are still babysitting my friend's Labradoodle. I'm not sure how you spell that. He's a cute dog but he hasn't wanted to eat much since they left. Well, I should amend that. I've caught him eating our dog's food a couple of times so I guess he's not starving. But he's not eating a lot and I can't get him to eat his own food--that's for sure. I guess I won't worry too much about it since he is getting some food. At least all the dogs are getting along well.

Well, there really isn't a whole lot going on here--other than the normal stuff. More later.

WOWZA WEDNESDAY!

Wowza, it's been a day. I think the moon must be full or something. I have two really emotional toddlers. They are fighting and having tantrums over everything! On top of that, I inherited another dog today - that makes 3--but thankfully, this one goes back home in 5 days! Whew! However, that is still another dog to trip over for nearly a week! My neighbors went on vacation and I couldn't say "No." Gah!  Oh well. :}

I did manage to catch a couple of smiles out of Carly and Jono today, but I promise there were only a couple and these were among them! Serious! (And yes BTW, that is a Colts Cheerleader outfit she's wearing for all you fans! Go Colts! Lol!)


                                                             Carly on our front steps.

 

Jono, just hanging out.

MISS JULIE

MR. JONATHON

MISS CARLY

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY SWEETHEART!

Rob wasn't able to be home for Father's Day today. That's why we had a dinner Saturday to celebrate. Anyway, I took this cute picture of him and Jono and just thought I would share it. Daddy with his only boy. Two of my favorite guys in the whole world. So stinkin' cute! Happy Father's Day honey! I love you! :)

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY DAD!

Got lots done today! Rob, Jono and I got haircuts! Got my Father's Day shopping (and a bunch of other shopping) done and made a big Father's Day dinner for Rob and Dad. We had Lasagne for our main course and Fruit Pizza for dessert. Julie and Carly helped with the Fruit Pizza. It was YUMMY! Everything was  good but very filling. I am still full and it is nearly 11:00 p.m at night.

Just want to say Happy Father's Day to my Dad whom I love very much! I'm so proud of who he is and all he has accomplished in his life. He is a terrific father and a great man. Thanks for always being such a good example for me Dad. I love you! Hope you have a Happy Father's Day!

WIGGLES, GIGGLES AND COPYCATS

Yesterday Carly and Jono had a friend over and they all played out on the swing set. I wasn't really excited about going out and pushing them on the swings because it was SO hot out but once I got out there I was really glad I was there. They were so funny and I loved watching and listening to them. They talked non-stop to themselves and each other and they say the most random things. Their friend Ellie said "I have blue eyes"  to which Carly immediately responded "I have pink eyes." From there came the ripple back through Jono to Ellie. Suddenly everyone had pink eyes.

Then, I was pushing all of them and Carly said her arm itched and she needed to stop and scratch it. Sure enough a couple of seconds later, Jono said his arm itched and he needed to stop and scratch it--followed by Ellie whose arm itched who needed to stop and scratch it. The hilarity came for me when they had to look at Carly to see which arm she was scratching so they would know which of their arms they needed to scratch. Hahaha! :) And during the course of a half hour of my pushing them, Carly had to stop twice more to scratch that arm--and you can be sure the other two had identical itches at nearly the exact same moments. Funny, funny kids.

I can't remember all of their funny things they said but truly the best part for me was listening to their giggling as they went flying into the air screaming "Higher, Mommy, higher!" I wish I could capture those giggles and listen to them forever. Hearing your children's pure laughter and seeing their sweet faces filled with glee truly have to be some of the sweetest moments a parent can witness--and hopefully, some of the most memorable moments of childhood. 

THE GOOD THINGS ABOUT TODAY

We made and ate cookies, swung on swings, read books, watched movies,  laid in bed and hugged each other, gave each other kisses, said "I love you" bunches of times, shared toys, loved on our puppies and ran in the yard. What a bunch of spoiled big and little kids are we! :)

WHY WE PRAY . . . IN CASE YOU WEREN'T CERTAIN :)

Tonight I was saying prayers with Carly and Jono as I was putting them to bed when Carly asked why we always had to pray. I told her we pray everyday so we can stay close to our Heavenly Father--to which she quickly added "and to keep tomatoes away!" "What honey?" I asked. She looked at me quizzically. (I'm searching my brain because she likes tomatoes.) "What about tomatoes? What does Heavenly Father do with tomatoes?" "You know," she said, and makes a whirling motion with her hand, "he keeps those big winds away." "Oh Tornadoes! You mean he keeps us safe from Tornadoes?! Yes honey, he protects us. That's one of the things we pray for." From the mouths of babes . . . Lol!

NICE DAY

I took the little kids to lunch today with my friend Robin and her kids. They had a good time. We ate lunch and then let them play on the playground afterward and they were pretty happy about being able to do something other than be at home.

It was a nice day out again. A bit warmer than yesterday. The kids napped pretty well after lunch but they were really hyper tonight. I was fixing dinner when I realized I needed a few things from the store to complete the meal. I wanted to take them to the store with me about as much as I wanted to perform surgery on myself but I didn't really have any choice. So, off we went--and to my surprise--they were both really good! Miracles do happen!

Rob ended up about three hours from home today with his work so he was late getting home. He was pretty tired by the time he pulled in but we still managed to get some things accomplished around here before bedtime.

Grandpa had another visit from his voice Dr. today. He is making progress and she seems happy about that. So are we. Well, that's about all for today. Night all. :)

MY KIND OF SUNDAY

It was a really nice day out today. We had a high wind warning last night but no sign of it today. It was a nice temperature out and the kids were loving running up and down the sidewalk with one of their friends this evening. I'm pretty sure Jono is going to be a track star.

We didn't do much today. I didn't even fuss much for dinner-just pulled out the waffle iron and made waffles. That's my kind of Sunday. Everyone seemed happy enough so that was good enough for me. :)

OUR WEEK

It's been a busy few days. Rob and I celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary on Thursday. He took the day off and we spent it together doing some fun things.

Yesterday we spent the day working on cleaning out our storage unit and prepping for a yard sale we were having today. It was sweltering hot yesterday. (Oh yah, that relief I asked for a few days ago--came on the 7th in the form of 39 degree weather! In JUNE. Can you believe that? Amazing!) Today, for the sale, the weather actually was fairly cool and nice. Although, we do have a high wind warning tonight. Hopefully, that will pass without much affect.

Our yard sale went pretty well. We sold most of our big stuff. One of neighbors went in with us and she sold most of her, stuff too. All in all, it was probably still more work than it was worth. But, isn't it always! Lol!

CAN YOU SAY "SALSA?"

My big accomplishment for the day was filling about 600 jars of salsa. Yep, that's right! I went to the cannery today to work on salsa. Our shift was responsible for canning 3000 jars of salsa. I was working one cranky automatic jar filler and the salsa was piping hot. It was pretty interesting how it all works and thankfully, I only burned myself once. I think I did leave a couple of quarts on the floor and maybe another quart on my clothes and shoes but other than that I am pretty proud of the job I did. Our crew did all those jars in 2 hours and I think there were less than 20 of us--so that is pretty good. I haven't tasted it yet--but it sure smelled good so I brought some home to try!

CONGRATULATIONS JULIE! WE LOVE YOU!

We went to a very nice reception hosted by the Multiple Sclerosis Society tonight who are giving Julie a very nice scholarship for college this year. We were so impressed with their kindness and generosity. They told us how difficult it was for them to decide on applicants this year and how impressed they were with the essays written by the recipients.

There were about eight total recipients--most of them either had parents who were currently suffering with MS or like Julie had lost parents to MS. However, one recipient was Julie's age, (18), and has the disease. It turns out that Julie had gone to junior high with her but didn't know she had been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. This young woman got the largest scholarship and everyone there was so happy for her. What a hard thing for someone so young to go through. I had always heard most people were diagnosed with M.S. in their 30's and 40's so this has to be devastating for her and her family. Although, she seems to be very upbeat and determined. Well, I didn't mean to get off on that--it was just a memorable part of the evening.

We are very proud of Julie and her efforts to be a good student in high school but in her desires to go on and gain a college education. She is very excited for college to start and plans to study Political Science. She is hoping to go on from there to law school. I've told her to expect to change her major several times along the way as I've got lots of experience with college students, but she is determined that she wants to be a prosecutor. Who knows maybe she will be one of those who never changes her major! That would be something!

Congrats Julie! You make us proud and we love you!

IS IT LIVE OR IS IT MEMOREX?

Julie and I are sitting here with the kids watching Despicable Me. Jonathon just started saying the lines along with the characters--I mean--as they were saying them--not after--but right with them. He has memorized some of the funny lines. He was even saying them with the right inflection. Julie and I just looked at each other and laughed. He's not even three yet! No way! Kids are so smart these days. I think I was a pretty smart kid--but I had nothing on the kids these days.

This afternoon Carly was going outside and she stopped halfway out the door and said, "Mom, I'll be out back if anyone needs me." REALLY? I mean, you're four. I know you're going out back to play--just who is it you think is going to NEED you? It's a bit early for a social calendar! Lol!  (At least I hope it is!)

Wow, we are having a heat wave. Rob said on his way home this afternoon he noticed it was over 100 degrees about 15 miles from here. It's 11:00 p.m. now and it's still 86 degrees. In fact, the kids would only stay out and play about 15 minutes at a time. Even then, when they came in they were really flushed. (You know it's bad when kids won't stay outside!) I sure hope we get some relief soon.

OUR VERY BORING SUNDAY

I woke up this morning at 6:00 a.m. to Rob getting dressed and having to head out on-call to fix a machine at a hospital. I guess he'd been up with them since 4:00 a.m. but I hadn't heard a thing. No sooner had I gotten back to sleep than I heard Jonathon crying and went in and found him telling me he was sick. He said he had a tummy ache. So, I picked him up and gave him some medicine and took him back to my bedroom--but not before Carly woke up having a nightmare. Got her back to sleep and then got Jono asleep again. Then it was time to get up and go teach Sunday School. Rob had planned to stay home with Jono so I could go teach but I had to have Julie stay home with him instead. Although, I don't think she minded that much. Everyone needs a break now and then.

I think my Sunday School class went okay. People were quiet today. It was hard to get participation and I hate that. It's so much nicer when people volunteer answers and discussion.

Rob spent several hours out fixing machines and then came home and needed a giant nap. I would have liked to have joined him but I had put the kids down for a nap and Jono wouldn't stay down. I didn't dare lay down with him up moving around. You never know what a two year old is going to get into--especially my very clever little guy. ;)

Grandma made dinner tonight. She made some yummy Swiss steak and mashed potatoes. Then I made a chocolate cake for dessert. So we were well fed. Now time for bed. Night all.

PICTURES OF GRADUATION WEEK

This has been a long week. We went to the presentation of all the seniors receiving scholarships at Julie's school early in the week. Julie received scholarships from four universities, I believe--and one scholarship that will travel with her. Although, unfortunately, none of the university ones are at the university she has chosen to go to. Oh well, still an honor to receive them.

Then we had her graduation yesterday. I did take pictures. So here are a few of them. Congratulations sweetheart! We are so proud of you!

 Julie receiving one of her scholarships earlier in the week

 Julie receiving her diploma

 Julie being congratulated by the school board members

Julie with Grandpa and Grandma Carson after Graduation