Overheard Conversation

Treyson: There are so many people in my class that don't believe in Santa.
Keaton: Mine, too.
Treyson: I can't believe it!  {pause}  Brendan Armijo doesn't believe.
Keaton: Really? That's bad.
Treyson: You have to admit, though. Santa is really fat.
Keaton: Ya.

Elf Yourself

Capricorn

I not a person who checks their horoscope.  In fact, I can probably count on one hand the number of times I've actually read my horoscope in my lifetime.  But, this was on MSN's homepage today, so I read it, and found that it pretty much hit the nail on the head. 

When it comes to professionalism and traditional values, Capricorn wins hands-down. This practical sign loves to tackle life in the most conventional of ways, leaving no stone unturned. Considered the most serious-minded of the signs, the Capricorn possesses an independence that allows for considerable progress both personally and on the job.
Friends and Family
Combining a strong wit and a love of humor, the Capricorn makes terrific company for those they choose as friends. They will surround themselves with people who are honest, loyal, and like-minded when it comes to working values. They cherish loved ones and will go any distance to help a friend or family member. Traditional by nature, the Capricorn loves nothing more than holidays, such as Christmas, that bring people together with a variety of activities. Although a Capricorn isn't apt to have a large social circle, those included in this sign's life will find someone who is steadfast and true. Emotional displays are not common for a Capricorn. They would rather show how they feel through deeds than expression with words.
Career and Money
Ambition is the key word for this sign. The key phrase for Capricorn is I use. The Capricorn possesses a real knack for finding the right tool for the job and getting down to it. Starting at the bottom of the ladder and working their way to the top doesn't scare the Capricorn off. They will go the distance once a goal is set.
In addition to setting high standards for themselves, honesty, perseverance, and a dedication to duty make the Capricorn an excellent manager. Loyalty and a willingness to work as hard as necessary are qualities that this sign values greatly within themselves and in those around them. Careers in management, finance, teaching, and real estate are excellent choices.
Capricorns are resourceful and manage their time and money well. Every now and then, the urge to spend some hard-earned cash can see this sign packing some large shopping bags with fun and frivolous items out of the store. But as a rule, caution goes hand in hand with the Capricorn making practical purchases more likely than anything else. Multifunctional items are definitely favored.
Ruling Planet  The ruling planet for Capricorn is Saturn. Considered the taskmaster of the horoscope, Saturn rules theories, scientific law, patience, timing, tradition, conventionality, and the productive use of time.
Colors  The color of choice for Capricorn is brown. In fact, most dark colors do well for this sign.
Gemstone  Capricorn's star stone is the black onyx.
Lucky Numbers  Capricorn's lucky numbers are 6, 8, and 9.
Compatibility  Capricorns are most compatible with Taurus and Virgo.
Opposite Sign  The opposite sign for Capricorn is Cancer.
The Perfect Gift  Practical, dark-colored, well-made clothing and high-tech gadgets
Likes  Family, tradition, quality craftsmanship, understated status, music
Dislikes  Almost everything at some point
Best Travel Destination  Mexico, Cuba, India, Delphi, Oxford
Strengths  Responsible, good managers, disciplined, self-control, dark sense of humor
Weaknesses  Know-it-all, unforgiving, condescending, expecting the worst
Charismatic marks  Medium build, can get in shape with effort but tends to be a bit soft
Best environment  Positive work situation, urban environments with culture and style, anyplace to be in charge

Panic

Today is Monday, December 20th.

Treyson just handed me this:

There was a bit of panic on my part, but then I remembered how incredibly smart and in-tune Santa is.  I'm sure he got Treyson something on this list!!

BIRTHDAY TIMES TWO

My dad, grandpa, and Ty share a birthday which I think it completely cool!

I will always be thankful for Doctor Melendez who agreed to induce me 3 days before my due date so that Ty could share his birthday with his Grandpa H and Great-Grandpa Ray.  I am also thankful that I went into labor on my own on that day, and didn't have to be induced. 

It was meant to be!

At any rate, December 17 is a special day for our family, and we felt very lucky to be able to celebrate with Grandpa H, since he and Grandma H were here for another special event: Ty's ordination!!

We celebrated by stuffing ourselves to the brim at the Chinese Buffet.  We definitely ate our meal cost in crab legs!!!  {They probably lost money on our family!!}

The night was complete with a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday To You",  and Ty's very own chocolate cake, complete with candle.

It was a fun night!

 On Sunday, December 19th, Ty was ordained a Deacon and received the Aaronic Priesthood.   What a wonderful day it was.  I am so proud of the man Ty is becoming.  On Sunday, November 28th, Tanner advanced to the office of a Teacher in the Aaronic Priesthood.  Of course, I could go on and on about that, too, but I won't.

TWELVE

Ty turned TWELVE today.

Wow.

I don't even know what to say other than
I DON'T LIKE IT.

I want to scream at the top of my lungs,
 "STOP GROWING UP SO FAST!!!"

But, instead, I just hug him, and kiss his cute cheeks, and try to accept it.

{Two Weeks Old}

Ty was the most mellow, sweet baby.  I can't even begin to tell you how much I appreciated that after having a baby as miserable and sick as Tanner was.  Ty was content to just sleep in his swing or crib, and hardly ever fussed. 

{Twelve Years Old}

 After 12 years, I can't say much has changed about Ty.  Except of course, that he's GROWN!!  He is still a mellow, sweet boy, who is content with just being.

I love him so very, very much and am so thankful to have him in our family!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TYGER!!!

DRHS State Championship Game

Today we pulled our kids out of school early to head to Cardinal Stadium in Glendale to cheer on our high school's football team in the State Championship Game.  We caravaned with the Steck family and had a blast!

DRHS wasn't even supposed to be able to compete against Hamilton High School, but they held their own and nearly pulled off a HUGE upset!  Maybe next year!!

After the game we went to grab a bite to eat...4 adults and 12 children certainly turned some heads!  Hee hee hee... 

Destiny

Yesterday I was reminded of why I was destined to be the mother of boys.

"Why?", you ask...

Well, because they can come up to me and say,

"Look what I just pulled out of my EAR!!  It's HUGE!  And GROSS!!"...

and I didn't even flinch. 

 In fact,

I looked,

agreed that it was "huge" and "gross",

 and then went on doing what I was doing.

It's destiny, I tell ya! 

Noel

[One of my very favorite things about Christmas]

Probably the best Christmas album ever made.

I'm just sayin'.

Dear Santa,

{Tate's List}

{Ty's List}

FOURTEEN

My Tanner turned FOURTEEN on Saturday.

I didn't like it.

But I
{L-O-V-E}
 this child and can't imagine my life without him in it!!!

{Two Weeks Old}
Who could have guessed that this chubby, cantankerous, allergy-ridden baby would turn into such an amazing young man? 

We had some fun with Tanner (or, at his expense) in the weeks following up to his birthday.  The ONLY thing (O.N.L.Y.!!!!) he wanted was a new guitar.  He started asking for one about 5 months ago and even bookmarked the website page that had the one he wanted. 
We told him, "Tan, it's really expensive."
and
"Well, I don't know bud.  That's a big, expensive gift...more than we usually spend on birthday gifts."
and
"I think that guitar is too advanced for you."
and
"Oh, man...I hope you're not too disappointed."
and even
"If you don't stop irritating your brothers you won't EVER get a new guitar!!!"

The day before his birthday his Facebook status read:
"My parents aren't getting me a guitar."
I responded:
"Those dang parents!!"
He didn't think that was very funny. 
He erased it shortly after I responded.

But...his birthday came, and his "dang" parents, and both sets of grandparents, came through.
If you look closely, you may even catch the small glimmer of a smile on his face. 

That's a rare thing from my teenage boy.

After the guitar was opened and tuned, we cranked up the fire pit, roasted marshmallows, made S'mores, and listened to Tanner strum on his new guitar.  He even sang a little but shhhhhh...don't tell him I told you!!!

Happy Birthday, Tanner J! 

I {heart} you!!!

Thankful

We kicked off the Thanksgiving holiday with the 1st Grade Musical.  They sang all about the Pilgrims, Indians, and Turkey.  Tater Bug was a Pilgrim and did a fantastic job!!

Thanksgiving day started out with Tanner and Ty participating in our ward's Turkey Bowl.  There's nothing like a game of flag football to work up an appetite.  Who am I kidding??  Tanner and Ty don't need any help working up an appetite!!!

 When the boys got back from playing football, and Kevin got back from the gym, we went to see Harry Potter.  We loved it and can't wait for the last one to come out!!!

Then, after the movie, we came home and Kevin prepared our Lobster and Crab Boil!!!  Forget the turkey!  Yuck!!

{Our Thanksgiving Table Setting}

 {Before}

 {Ready To Dig In!!}

 {After}

 There was almost nothing left except a few pieces of corn, a few potatoes, and just enough seafood to make crab cakes for lunch today.  It was DELICIOUS!!!

When it got dark, we cranked up the fire pit outside and drank hot chocolate while huddled under blankets.  It was great.  And cold.  (Don't laugh, mom!  There was a freeze warning last night!!)

This morning we skipped Black Friday shopping, and slept in and were lazy instead.  That's my kind of Black Friday!!  Tate sat at the kitchen table for about 2 hours working on his Christmas List for Santa.  I kept trying to explain to him that the list was just to give Santa ideas, and that there's no possible way he can bring everything he has written down.  He didn't want to hear it.  Shocker, I know!

All in all, it was a wonderful Thanksgiving.  I am so thankful for everything and everyone in my life.  I have been so very, very blessed!

Now...on to Christmas...

Baby Anna Christine

My baby brother, and his wife, Donna became parents for the first time today!!

I am so excited for them, and super excited to be an auntie for the 22nd time!! 

 Congratulations, Bevan and Donna!!!  She's beautiful!

Jonas

A while back I posted the story of my mom's second cousin's baby boy, Jonas.  You can read it here.

I was saddened to hear that Jonas passed away last Thursday, but at the same time, I felt happy that he would no longer have to suffer, and that he could be free of the body that held him back from all that we know he could have done.  He was a blessing to all those who know and love him and I know he will be missed. 

{Jonas Mathie Coleman}

 12/2/07 ~ 11/18/10

Our dear sweet little boy, Jonas, was welcomed home into the loving arms of our Savior on Nov. 18, 2010. For almost three years Jonas quietly but bravely endured the progression of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type I. Jonas was born Dec. 2, 2007, to loving parents Whit and Lindsey. Jonas had the most expressive, blue eyes that could speak more eloquently than any words ever could. Jonas was a happy, peaceful and calm little boy who enjoyed the simple things in life. Family vacations to Disneyland and St. George were some of his favorite times. He had a deep love of music that would always make him smile. His other loves included being read to, lights, stars, swimming, watching Disney movies and exploring outside. With the odds against him, Jonas held on to see his baby sister Maggie born and loved when she snuggled up to his side. Jonas had the greatest gift of inspiring and influencing everyone he met. He changed lives forever. Jonas taught us more in his short life than we could ever have taught him in ten life times. Jonas is survived by his parents Whit and Lindsey and sister Maggie, grandparents Mark and Becky Mathie, Mike and Merri Coleman, and great grandpa Frank Coleman, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins. The family would like to express gratitude to Dr. Kathryn Swoboda and the Pediatric Motor Disorders Research Group, Dr. Paul Ferreira and staff at Holladay Clinic, IHC home health, Peterson Medical (Orem) and Make-A-Wish for granting Jonas' wish to visit Disneyland one last time. It was his happy place. A celebration of Jonas' life will begin at 12 Noon on Tuesday, Nov. 23 at the Wilford Stake Center, 3080 S Kenwood St (1765 E). There will be a viewing held at Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 E 1300 S, on Monday evening from 6 - 8 p.m. as well as Tuesday morning at the ward from 10:30 -11:45 a.m. Jonas was a true blessing and we miss him already. We love you little buddy OFF TO NEVERLAND! In lieu of flowers please donate to the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation http://gwendolynstrongfoundation.org/ Online condolences are welcome at www.larkincares.com

Sorry Neil...Josh does it better!!

Oh, Elder...

Kevin has been the Ward Mission Leader in our ward for about 2 months.  Before that he was the assistant Ward Mission Leader. This has given him the opportunity to work with the Missionaries in our area.  It's been mostly good.  Mostly.

Let me introduce you to Elder Major.  He's been in our area for 8 months.  He's been through more companions than I can remember.  He makes us laugh.  Here you will see why...

We're thankful for the LDS missionaries!!

Playing Catch-Up

Wow!  I feel like it's been a really, really long time since I've updated my blog!  I'm going to try to do a little "catch-up" now. 

The last time I blogged was October 27th, so I'll start with Halloween.  On Friday, October 29th, our ward did their annual Trunk-or Treat.  We had oodles of chili, hot dogs, cotton candy, and popcorn, as well as tons of candy from the ward members.  Tanner and Ty, along with Zeke, dressed up as the 3 Amigos.  That didn't last long, though.  I think they had their costumes on for a total of about 2 1/2 minutes.  Treyson and Keaton dressed up as Hobos, or "Hobo Brothers", as they called themselves.  They looked so cute!  Sara's MIL, Murline, sent the costumes for them to use.  They were Brian and his brother's costumes many years ago.  Funny!!  Tate dressed up in a really old Dracula costume that Tanner wore when he was 6.  He didn't seem to care that it was old and worn out--all he wanted was the CANDY!!  The only photo I have is of Treyson and Keaton.  I know.  I'm a bad mom.  Try not to judge me too harshly.

On Saturday morning we were up an at 'em early for Tanner's Jagz tournament, Halloween Scream, at Gene Autry Fields in Mesa.  They won both of their games, and the team went into the finals seeded 1st.  They ended up taking 2nd place in the tournament.  Way to go 14U Jagz!!

On Sunday we went to church, as usual, and then after church we went to the Steck's house for a low key Halloween celebration.  The kids didn't even ask to go trick-or-treating, which was nice, and were perfectly happy sitting on the driveway handing out candy.  The teenagers were playing guitar and singing, and everyone had a great time.  I love that the Stecks invite us to participate in their family events...we truly feel like part of theirs!  Thank you, Brian and Sara!!

Tuesday, November 2nd, was mid-term elections.  I was so excited to VOTE!  What a wonderful right we have, as Americans, to vote!  I love it!

Republicans took control of the House and won some seats in the Senate.  Here's hoping that something can be done to turn this country around! 

On Saturday, November 6th, my friend, Rachel, and I headed out to Palm Desert, CA,  to see our favorite singer JOSH GROBAN in concert.  We had fun laughing and catching up.  We ate, laughed, ate some more, had massages, ate even more, and then went to see Josh!  We were really digging the fact that we were probably some of the youngest people there!  If you ever need to feel young, just go to Palm Desert/Palm Springs!!  {hee hee} There aren't many things better, in my opinion, than seeing Josh sing live.  He's incredible and I'm sooooo looking forward to the "real" tour!!  My only regret is that we didn't go to the stage door after the concert.  Apparently he signed autographs and took pictures with a few fans for an hour or so after the concert.  BUMMER!!  Next time for sure!!!

{At McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert, CA}



{Waiting for the concert to start}





Today is Veteran's Day and I can't help but think about my Grandpa Ray.  I wish I would have asked him to tell me more about his experiences in WWII.  I am so thankful for his service, and for the service of all the brave men and women who work so hard to protect the freedoms I enjoy.

 {This is a plaque in the Mona Ward Church building.  It has the name of my grandpa, Ray M. Myers, as well as my grandma's brothers, and brother-in-law}

{Thank you, Grandpa!  I love and miss you!}

Well, I think I'm caught up.  There's a few fun things coming up, so I'll try to keep the blog updated!

Mansions and Castles

A funny exchange between Treyson and Ty tonight:
Ty:  What would you do if you got a million dollars?
Trey:  I'd buy Mansions.  {pause} And then I'd buy castles.
Ty:  I think I'd just buy a nice house.

I don't know why this cracked me up, but it did.  Funny, funny boys.

God Bless America

I can remember, as a young adult, going to a parade and getting choked up when the men in uniform walked by carrying the US Flag.  It was the idea that these men and women, with ages ranging from 18-99+, sacrificed their health, families, and LIFE to protect and defend this country I live in.  That they would willingly (or by draft) serve their God, and their country.  That they would willingly give up their lives to protect something that our Founding Fathers held so dear. 

As I was watching a baseball game the other day, as usual, "God Bless America" was sung during the 7th inning stretch...only this time-and the only time I ever remember-the singer sang the WHOLE song.  I was home alone.  The kids were at school and Kev at work.  The tears streamed down my face as I realized how far away from the ideals of this song our country is.

While the storm clouds gather far across the sea,

Let us swear allegiance to a land that's free,
Let us all be grateful for a land so fair,

As we raise our voices in a solemn prayer.

God Bless America,

Land that I love.

Stand beside her, and guide her

Through the night with a light from above.

From the mountains, to the prairies,

To the oceans, white with foam

God bless America, My home sweet home

God bless America, My home sweet home

I found my self thinking about our current President--who REFUSES to put his hand over his heart during the pledge of allegiance.

I found myself thinking of all the people of our country who worked so tirelessly to REMOVE prayer from our schools.

I found myself thinking about all of the innocent people that died in the terrorist attacks of 9/11, and instead of being proud of the efforts being made against terrorism, our former president is shunned and our troops are shunned for trying to do the right thing, and how our current President doesn't support the war--which to me says that he doesn't support all of those serving--risking their lives--to protect our country from another attack. 

It's not my intention to start a debate on the war, or our current president.  I have been included in a heated email chain between my aunt and her cousin on the evils of the two parties, and finally, just today, my cousin really stuck it to them.  He basically said this:  Open your eyes, do your research, use common sense, and VOTE!!!

For the past two weeks I have been pouring over any information I could find about the candidates and measures on my ballot.  I feel informed and confident in my decisions.  I can't wait to turn in my ballot.  I like feeling that I can have a small part in changing what needs changing. 

I encourage all of you (my very, very, small pool of readers) to study, ponder, and pray about your vote this November 2nd.  Heaven knows our country needs all the prayers it can get!

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Open Letter To My Very Grumpy (and elderly) Neighbors

Dear Ms. Philippino Lady, and Mr. Jack Daniels,

Kids will be kids

and

sidewalk chalk

WASHES OFF!!!

Oh, and P.S...

If you don't want to live in a neighborhood with children in it...

M-O-V-E!

Leisure World is just down the street...no children there, guaranteed!!

P.P.S.  Complaining about my kids to the LDS missionaries won't get you anywhere.  They LOVE my kids...and besides, what could they do?

grrrrrrrrrr..........

Sincerely,

Tina

I've never, in my life, seen two people get so worked up over sidewalk chalk, with threats of calling the police!! 
I can just imagine the call now, "Yes, hi...my neighbor boys are drawing all over the road with sidewalk chalk."
Holy moly...I haven't been this irritated in a very, very long time!!!

New Pictures of Bubba

{CHASE REED LEWIS}
click on the link

Fall Break 2010

We decided, kind of last minute, to take a quick trip to San Diego.  I'm a sucker for a "deal", and Sea World was offering a free child's ticket with the purchase of an adults ticket, and the San Diego Zoo was offering free children's tickets through the month of October.  Sweet!

We didn't have one bit of sunshine the whole time we were there, but it didn't matter much...I just loved that we were all together having a good time.

We drove to San Diego Thursday morning, early, and went straight to Sea World. 

 Doing the "Camingo"...

...guess you had to be there...

   Sittin' in the SPLASH ZONE!!!

 Soaking wet after the Shipwreck Rapids ride!!

The greatest thing about this was that Kevin actually went on the water rides...it's usually me that's soaking wet with the kiddo's!!

Our plan was to go to the zoo on Friday, but when we woke up that morning it was pouring rain!!  We went and had breakfast at one of our very favorite SD breakfast spots, The Broken Yolk, and then headed up the coast to Carlsbad where we went to the fabulous outlets there.  After the outlets, we had lunch at Costco (since I'm a budget minded gal) and then headed to the beach to watch the surfers and the dolphins.

 

 Saturday morning we got up and headed to a new favorite spot, Perry's Cafe Breakfast House.  The chicken fried steak was TO-DIE-FOR...I ate it two mornings in a row.  Luckily, for my waist-line, chicken fried steak is a vacation only food, otherwise I'd be 600 pounds 'cause I love the dang stuff!!!  After breakfast we went to the zoo. 

I love the zoo.

My kids and hubby,  well...let's just say that they truly humored me with this one. 

After the zoo we went downtown and ate lunch at Anthony's Fish Grotto...another of my favorites, and then we walked down to show the boys the big boats that are docked there.

We drove home Sunday afternoon, worn out, but ready to head back to school and work.  I love my family and am thankful for the times, like these, that we can spend some quality time together!