My very own "Do-It-Yourselfer"

I love that Breanne and I are alike in some ways and NOT Alike in others.

B: Mom, Look what I sewed all by myself.
Me: Wow! Did you really just sew on that patch that Grampy gave you to your shirt?
B: Ya, I used the needle and thread I found in the bathroom drawer!
Me: That's amazing. Where did you learn to do that?
B: From the neighbors.

Our 12 Days of Christmas Friend

Our 12 Days of Christmas Friend brought a box of 12 ice cream drumsticks.

Darling, huh?

Merry, Merry Christmas ALL!

On the tenth and eleventh days of Christmas...

My secret friend gave to me...

Huge box of sugar cookie dough mix with a note that says (It has nothing to do with the song, but we hope you like it.)

Of course we do. Should we make sugar cookies today to give as neighbor gifts?

And for the eleventh day...
a package of creme filled Pirouette rolled wafer cookies, chocolate hazelnut. The note says, "they're pipe shaped"

Very cute, don't you think. And yummy.

Sixth, Seventh, Eighth, and Ninth Days of Christmas

Darn it! I'm media impaired and having difficulties getting my pictures uploaded. So...I'll just have to tell you about the gifts our secret friend is bringing instead of showing you.

Sixth Day--6 eggs
Seventh Day--Bubble Bath
Eighth Day-- Milk Duds
Ninth Day--Poinsettia

Can't be nearly as fun for you to hear about this as it is for us to receive these gifts, but in some small way I still feel like I'm sharing Christmas joy by sharing the story of their kindness. Enjoy!

Fifth Day of Christmas--Golden Rings!

12 Days of Christmas

First and Second Days

Third and Fourth Days

We have a secret friend who is bringing us the 12 days of Christmas. Is that the coolest thing ever, or what?

Not until today did I realize there IS a rhyme and reason to the gifts they bring. Can you figure it out?

Today the note on the turkey breast said, "One the fourth day of Christmas my secret friend gave to me...think birds." It was then that we went back to the other gifts and realized.
The first day they brought sparkling pear juice. The second day two dove ice creams. The third day, French vanilla cocoa, and the fourth day, turkey, which I'm sure will make a much better dinner than say, calling birds.

In case our secret friend reads the blog, Thank you! You have brought us Christmas cheer. I can hardly wait to continue the tradition someday in the future for another family. You have already made our season, "Merry and Bright."

Beach Boys Christmas

A few of the guys from church put together a song for the Christmas party on Friday night. Ross (in the white shirt) sang lead. The little kids in front danced while the band sang a rendition of Frosty the snowmen set to the music of the Beach Boys song, "I get around." It's as if the little boys (grown men who performed) had all their dreams of being a rock star come true--even if only for five minutes on Friday night.
Thanks to Jamie for posting it on facebook, otherwise I wouldn't have had any pictures.
Oh, and if I had forgotten, Ross can REALLY sing. He was AWESOME!

God's Goodness

I showed up today for my second ever substitute teaching assignment.

I've been a little anxious about getting back into the job market. Maybe I should put that more accurately. I really don't want to work. I've never really planned to work other than take care of my kids, and home, and coach swimming. Those are the two things I love to work at--my job as a mom, and coaching!

I'll go on a tangent here, because I even remember in 5th grade when Ms. McMillan asked us to describe what we want to be when we grow up. I seriously wrote, "I want to marry a rich man, and be a mom." Needless to say she didn't like my answer and asked me to redo it for a surprise poem she was writing. I wouldn't back down and held firm to my first answer.

So, long story short, I'm now a working woman. Or at least pretending to be. In addition to my swimming lessons and swimming coaching, I've signed up to substitute teach. The plan is to get my teaching credential current and hopefully be a full-time teacher by next fall. I've picked up some odd jobs cleaning neighbor's houses, and shadow shopping. I also gave out samples at Wal-mart last Saturday all in addition to a new job I'm being trained in as an optician at Standard Optical. I'm absolutely indebted to my neighbors and friends who are angels come to my aid by helping to watch my children, when they are not in school, so I can go to work.

Which brings me to the title of this post. God's Goodness. Today I was sent another blessing straight from heaven.

Bowling! That's right, I'm not kidding.

When I showed up for my substitute teaching assignment today, which I knew was P.E. (and which is what my 10 year old expired secondary ed. credential is in--along with teaching health) I found out my assignment was to take 3 separate classes to the bowling alley over a period of five hours.

Hallelujah! This was like, my single favorite activity ever in the 3 years I did cub scouts. It's exactly what I pick when my dad comes to town or we get together in the winter and want to have some fun.

Yes, I bowled for free today, and got payed for it.

I told you God is Good!

P.S. Thanks to all who have been praying for us. Thank you. I mean it. Now do you think it would be too much or somehow sacreligious to ask Him again if I can get some more AWESOME substitute teaching assignments that I love! Or, I know, maybe we can pray that I get a long-term sub assignment that I would love, and then turns into a job offer next year. We'll see.

I Miss Me Too

Thanks Molly for following the blog and asking me to come back to blogging.

"What is going on here?" she asks. I'm not sure I even understand it very well. But here are a few of my excuses.

It could be one of 2 few things.

1. I've reverted to an old coping skill of mine from years ago where when things get hard I try to isolate myself from the world. I guess this is incongruent with blogging, so instead of blog I've been hiding. Oh, AND eating.

2. In an effort to remain genuine on my blog and to NOT spew hot venom about how awful my life is, I'm trying the other technique which is, "If you don't have anything nice to say, it's better to say nothing at all."

Hopefully this won't last long. Thanks for asking.

If you feel so inclined, say a prayer for me. And if you'd like I'll say one for you too!

Kindergarten Rocks

As the mother of a 5th grader, 2nd grader and kindergardener I have to say, I love kindergarten. Does life really get any better than kindergarten? Anyone remember when they were good at everything? Back when you could sing and dance, paint, and draw? I don't just mean they made time for it in school or that they let you do it, I mean you thought you were good at it. Just like you were good at everything you did.

It must happen sometime this year or next and I'm cringing for when it comes. Oh, please can Kindergarten last a little longer with this child? Can she believe in herself and her ability to do everything for just a little longer?

When asked her favorite subject Breanne said, "Math." How long can that possibly last? I know there are people out there who love math and who major in it and stuff, I'm just not friends with any of them. Which will go first? My daughter's love of math or our relationship? Please don't tell me they both go. Please!

A child shall lead them

You know when you have those times when your kids teach you more than you teach them. I had one of those with Breanne yesterday. She informed that her brain has channels.

Not only does her brain have channels but she can change them when she wants. She says she learned it when she woke up and she was on a different channel than the dream she had remembered earlier. I especially liked when she said, "So if I have a nightmare, or don't like my dream, I just need to change the channel." I asked her more than once where she had heard that from and she said, "I just know it from my dreams."

I'm sure I could use some help changing the channel on my thoughts the last month or so. Boy, it's been hard to be positive and see the good around me, but perhaps my mind has just been on the wrong channel.

Cooking and baking with whole wheat

I like to make soup and bread at this time of year. It's getting colder so I don't mind having the oven on.

I was also inspired recently by Lisa's whole wheat cooking class to more regularly use the whole wheat I have in storage.

So, I thought today I would spread the love. I hope you will enjoy some recipes that I've found, and if you have easy soup recipes for me to try send me the link.

Recently I made pumpkin bread with whole wheat flour, and I'm looking forward to trying these pumpkin blender waffles using my wheat berries.

Here's another recipe we've been using weekly, sometimes more, for whole wheat pancakes. I often substitute the milk for powdered milk (to use food storage), and I substitute honey for sugar (hoping that it's more healthy.) I also tried substituting buckwheat for whole wheat. I recently added 45lbs. of buckwheat to my food storage because I'd read that it's great to eat for breakfast. I cook the buckwheat berries in the rice cooker like I would rice and eat it with yogurt and almonds for breakfast instead of oatmeal. I really like oat groats cooked this way too.

Enjoy!

My Soccer Stars--I love them

Try not to let the fact that I'm not an incredible photographer take away from the fact that my kids are incredible soccer stars. Yes, Breanne is practicing as goalie in this one with her using her hands.

It's been a great season. I'll post soon on my other blog, What I Admire About You, because it's a great story what Annette Steed has done for Collin as his soccer coach this season. It's been a great blessing to have her and her husband as both our boys' coaches.

To all the volunteer coaches out there--You Do a Great Job for so little reward. We are also grateful to Breanne's coach Alice Nelson who has done a great job this year. Thank you!

Never Forget vs. "Forgive and Forget"

Ok, I’ve read a few posts on remembering 9/11 today. All of them have been very thoughtful and heart stirring. I included links here if you are interested.

The first is Emily from Light Refreshments Served. This is a wise woman with grown children and a great deal of life experience.


The second is Kristy also from Light Refreshments Served. I've only been reading this blog for a few weeks but her posts are geniune and usually make me laugh. Of course, today's is serious, but I did cry reading it.


And the third is Cheryl. She goes by Bored in Vernal (BIV) as her pen name. She thrives on being at the edge of controversial, but is thoughtful and enlightening.


The first two are stirring, somewhat emotional thoughts that I might expect from people I know. (I've never met any of these ladies, but I am enjoying getting to know them through stalking their blogs, if that's what you call it.) The third, in some ways says the opposite of the other two, but only in that “you can tell this lady has lived out of the country and has a world view of people much greater than mine” kind of way.

If you’ve got the time read them and let me know what you think. Each has merit. For example, Emily quotes the prophet, Kristy’s made me cry, and well, Cheryl has me thinking much larger. I think it’s worth your time if you have a few minutes. Then let me know what you think.

Get in on the contest

It's a contest. I saw this book in the BYU bookstore when I was at Education Week and I thought, I should read that. I happen to know a little bit about the author and from what I know she lives what she preaches. My interactions with her are amazingly positive, even when I'm not. She is a bright, intelligent, down to earth, and disciplined women who serves her neighbors far beyond expectations. The book is still in my stack of must reads but until then here's your chance to get a copy.

Author Anne Bradshaw reviewed Enjoying the Journey on her blog and is running a contest for a free copy.

How to enter:

1) Check out her review

2) Post information about the contest on your blog with a link back to hers

3) Leave ONE comment on the contest post telling her you've completed #2.

A winner will be chosen at random on Monday, September 15th, and announced the same day. The book will be signed and mailed by the author. Enter and spread the word and maybe you'll get a signed copy delivered to your very own mailbox! How easy is that?!

I Even Admire My Husband

Today's What I Admire About You post really did belong here on my Ironmoores blog. How come blogger won't let me copy and and paste from my own posts? Eventually I'll learn to write my post with word or google docs, but right now I don't want to rewrite this by hand.

This is a story of what I appreciate about Ross, despite all the garbage piling up in our lives.

He's a good guy, a great father and an example to me of what to do despite all my tendencies to blab too much. Thanks, honey.

What I Admire About You

In my effort to see the good in life and to share the things that buoy me up I've updated my other blog. The Peacegiver by James L. Ferrell and Dr. Wally were two of my most recent posts on What I Admire About You.

I got an email from Dr. Wally this morning that brought to tears to my eyes because he said he would have liked to meet me. This is his response to my post. "Wow. How kind of you to list me as one you admire on your blog. I'm amazed by your kindness. It seems that you use your blog to celebrate life. What a wonderful thing to do! I wish you had introduced yourself at Education Week. I would have loved to meet you! In fact, I wish Nancy and I could have taken you to dinner so we could visit. I think we would have been enriched by learning from your soul. I would love to know about you and your life story. Blessings,Wally"

That's just one more reminder to me of what humility looks like, and I'm so grateful to be learning.

A blog you might like--The Meanest Mom

One of the newest blogs I've found that helps me laugh and appreciate life is The Meanest Mom

She's LDS, but writes about her experiences without LDS lingo so that anyone and everyone will understand.

She has three children all born in the same calendar year. One girl and then 8 months later twin boys. What a hoot! Read her story here.

Collin Receives His Arrow of Light

Hooray for Collin (and his great scout leaders). Tonight he received Cub scouting's highest award, the Arrow of light.

This is what one of his great leaders had to say about Collin moving out of webelos to boy scouts, "I will really miss Collin. He was such a great kid. He always worked so hard and got along so well with all the other boys in the group. I have really enjoyed getting to have him in Webelos and I hope that he will go onto enjoy his experiences in scouting." That's high praise, I thought, and absoultely music to my ears.

After three years of Pack meetings and watching others receive their award, it was finally Collin's turn. I'm so glad that he finished the requirements for this. I thought we get a little break, because Connor enters cub scouts in February. But, oh no, we can start working on boy scout achievements now.

It's a great program. I love it!

Ordinary People Extraordiary Things

I live around the coolest people!

I just updated What I Admire About You. You gotta read it.

Blogs I Enjoy

I'm finally figuring out how to use google reader so that blogs I like show up on my homepage everytime they are updated. How cool is that.

Here are two that I've enjoyed reading the most lately. When you have a second to relax these are both worth it.

Light Refreshments Served

Normal Mormon Husbands

What I Admire About You

Today's post is on a new blog that I just started called:

What I Admire About You

I hope to start posting regularly on the subject of my everyday hereos on that blog.

I'd love for you to check it out.

Life Long Learning

I went to Education Week at BYU on Tuesday. I want to write a few of the things that stood out to me in hopes that I’ll remember what I’m learning.

First, I listened to Elder Hales speak on the theme of the conference, Life Long Learning.

He started by asking, “What does it mean to be a life long learner?” I wrote some notes.
• Joy of being edified rather than the pleasure of being entertained

Why should we be life long learners?
• Learning is NOT to impress others rather to change ourselves in order to help others

How can we do it?
1. Courage—“God has not given us the spirit of fear but of courage.” “There were fears in your hearts and this is the reason you did not receive.” D&C 67:3 Replace fear with faithful desire.
2. Patience—sometimes what we learn may not seem valuable until weeks or years later. Thomas Edison once said, I have not failed I have just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.
3. Curiosity—it is God given. Ask the question why? Often the best teachers are the best students. He quoted President Packer’s response when people had asked him how to understand the atonement of Christ.
“Read the Book of Mormon a few times, study the atonement and then write a one page summary of what you’ve learned, and then you will have your answer.”
4. Willingness to Share Knowledge—One achievement is only the dawn of a new beginning. Enjoy the view once you reach the top of the mountain. Then set a course for new heights in the future. Never dwell on the past or stay in your comfort zone when challenged with technological achievements.
5. Humility—Source of all knowledge is God. We gain knowledge to better serve. Continually feast on scriptures. Pray before scripture study to prepare and then pray again after to give thanks.
6. Communication—Great teachers are also great listeners. They don’t provide all the answers; they lead them to the fountain and motivate them to drink. Never dwell on the past or stay in your comfort zone when challenged with technological advancements. Move forward.

“Motherhood is the ideal opportunity for life long learning. It is exponential and not linear. The spiritual learning that happens as a mother prepares lessons for her children is exponential to her own growth.”—this is not a direct quote but close

My own thoughts about why I really liked this talk. I’m glad Elder Hales reminded me again that God has not given us the spirit of fear. I am also encouraged to grow in my ability to communicate through technological advancement. Ross will be especially excited about this because he's been wanting me to get over my "technophobia" for awhile.

I also like the idea that curiosity is God given. Sometimes when I read the scriptures I get discouraged because I have more questions than answers. His encouragement to write what I learn makes so much sense to me because when I write the knowledge becomes mine. I understand that the advice is to write, perhaps not always publish my learning. Hmmm.

That brings me to my scripture study yesterday. This is what I read, “I say unto you who now hear my words, which are my voice, blessed are ye inasmuch as you receive these things;
For I will forgive you of your sins with this commandment—that you remain steadfast in your minds in solemnity and the spirit of prayer, in bearing testimony to all the world of those things which are communicated unto you.” D&C 84:61-62

I’ve heard that scripture before but it seems different to me this time. Maybe because I was just telling Corinne the other day that I knew my feeling grumpy and irritable was mostly a sign that I needed to repent. So, I’m doing another experiment. Will blogging help me be forgiven?

I blog because I don't go to enough dinner parties

To understand this title you've got to click on the video below.

Thanks to Jason Adams for sharing this Brian Reagan clip about the ME monster. I laughed so hard. I know you may think he's making fun of me, but I actually thought of about 100 other people who really need to see this. If you can think of someone who needs to see this you may want to share it with them too. But, never me, ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ogZo9YreQ4

You may also want to check out Jason's wise comments here: http://thriveblogging.com/archives/145#comments

I'm so glad he shared this! I want to be like Jason when I grow up too, and now I'm not being sarcastic because he really is one of the most humble guys I know.

Kiera Knightly Says No to Bigger Bust

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=5471524

If Kiera says no than certainly I can too, right? Not that anyone wants to airbrush any pictures of me. Should I even admit that that would be a tough decision. But, that's not the point. The point is WAY TO GO Kiera. She's taking a stand that says, "I'm enough just the way I am."

Perhpas I have another hero. Can I also want to be like Kiera Knightly when I grow up? Too bad she's 23, huh?

I need more than one blog, don't I? Perhaps this isn't quite appropriate Ironmoore family content? Maybe I need something anonymous so not to embarrass myself? Thoughts anyone?

When I grow up I want to be like Dara Torres

It's true! I look to Dara and her amazing Olympic swimming performance and I'm awe inspired. The fact that she is faster than ever at 41 years old is absolutely unheard of. If anyone can help me find the child inside of me it's Dara. When I saw her swim on Saturday I felt like a kid thinking "I want to do that!" "Can I be like her when I grow up?"


Now that I'm old enough to know better I know that I don't want to do what it takes to swim in the Olympics. So what do I mean when I say I want to be like Dara?


1. I want to be in the best physical shape of my life when I'm 41.


2. I want to follow my dreams.


3. I want to continue to get better with age.


4. I want to not be stopped by people who say, "You're silly, Grow up."


5. I want to be a mom who loves my children and teaches them to swim.


6. I want to inspire others to be their best self.


7. I want my own massage therapists and stretching coaches :) I had to throw that in.


I thought these articles were interesting, though, I'm still taking a different view. Go Dara!


http://www.usnews.com/blogs/on-women/2008/7/30/dara-torress-abs-and-the-average-womans-body-image.html


http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/07/29/olympic-abs-versus-simple-fitness/

Olympic Dreams

Don't you think watching the Olympics brings out the dreamer in all of us?

I spent most of my youth believing that someday I would swim in the Olympics. Just for fun, I found this picture of Mary T. Meagher who was an idol of mine from the 1984 Olympics. She's one of the greatest swimmers of all time and she was even nice enough to write me back when I wrote her a letter in the 7th grade.

In 1996, I sat in the stands and watched swimming at the Atlanta Olympics, which is the closest I've ever really came to living that dream.

I've realized over the last few days that I'm not terribly unique in having the dream to compete in the Olympics. In fact, I'm coming to the theory that maybe there's a tiny bit of that dream in everyone. Don't you agree?

For example, when Ross heard during the Opening Ceremonies that the oldest athlete competing is from Japan. He's 67 and in the equestrian events. Ross said, "Well, there's still hope for me, perhaps in a shooting event. It may not be too late to be in the Olympics." We chuckled at the thought of Ross taking up shooting in order to become an Olympian.

Then this morning as I was chatting with some neighbors about the Olympics. Bridgette mentioned that her husband was trying to imagine what sport she ought to do. He had decided probably not volleyball because he likes her face the way it is and wouldn't want her to get smashed in the nose. "Badminton! That's my husband's choice for my Olympic sport." We laughed again. Is it funny because we all really have a secret desire to compete in the Olympics?

So what's yours? What sport would you choose to become an Olympian if you were to dream big? I shared mine in a previous post. When I was watching the cycling the other day I felt like a kid all over again. Unfortunatley, it hasn't motivated me sufficiently to get on my bike recently. (After Natalie's husband crashed I've decided to wait until I get a working cell phone before I go out again. So glad he seems to be doing better now.) In the meantime I'll be dreaming. How about you?

Most Wonderful Time of the Year

I don't normally watch t.v. We get 5 channels and that's great because the kids can watch PBS a little, and on Sunday evening we usually gather for Funniest Home Videos. We stopped watching the news a few years ago when Collin asked us, "Why does everyone hate Americans?" It was either that or when he was asking me at the age of 4 what "rape" was. We learned to read our news on the internet. But even now, if something big is going on in the world, I usually find it out from people who saw it on the news who tell me. That's ok with me. Plus, Ross isn't one of those guys who needs Sports Center, so we get along fine with a 20 year old t.v. and a few channels. That's until now! We've sat and watched several hours of Olympics together and plan to watch more. I'm LOVING IT!





It's AMAZING! I'm having a great time watching Micheal Phleps, and Natalie Couglin, Aaron Piersol, and Jason Lezak, and I could go and on naming swimmer after swimmer. I'm in heaven. Aren't you?

Another thing that's really fun is talking to everyday people (who normally don't follow swimming) about swimming. How fun is that! Anyone want to get together and watch underwater video, and pick apart details about why some of these guys are so incredible? That's fun for me.

I don't just watch swimming, though. I was a tiny bit surprised by how much I loved watching the women's cycling 70K road race. I felt like a little kid all over again, thinking, "I wonder if I could do that someday?" Yes, I'm inspired by the Olympics.

Today the Stacey's move out. This weekend I will continue to watch the Olympics and then Monday the kids will go to their first day of school. Is anyone as giddy as I am?

Summer Fun

These are the days of summer fun.

Until next year!

Why Blog? Who has the time?

Why Blog? I've taken a couple weeks off of blogging and reading people's blogs as an experiment. Is my life better without blogging? Am I actually addicted to blogging? And why do I blog? I have some answers, though, not too many.

My first hypothesis was if I didn't read blogs I would actually read books again, which I haven't done much of this summer until now. (I thought not reading much in the last few months had a lot more to do with the constant chaos in my house, not my blog addiction.) I'm happy to report I'm currently on page 492 of Like a Fire is Burning by Gerald N. Lund. (Yes, I know I'm about 10-15 years late when compared to those who actually read and the The Work Glory series when they came out. Call me a late bloomer. Ok, so I have a new found interest in Church history.)

But...I've really missed reading blogs and I've been miserable. I think I'm addicted. I'm a long time food addict, who until the last several months thought I was on top of this only to realize I've been turning to food to help me feel better every day again. The results of that= most of my clothes don't fit. I also have an exercise addiction. I have to have more and more of it for it to keep having the same positive effects for me. Though, I prefer my exercise addiction over my food addiction, I'm afraid they probably feed each other a little.

Ross says, "Can it really be an addiciton if it's basically good for you?" I say it's the worst kind, and here's why. Even though something may be good for me, it may not be good for me in the amounts I do it.

I know should can be a bad word. I've been told by counselor types that I should on myself too often. But face it if I should be taking care of my children, or I should be reading my scriptures, or I should be cleaning my house but I keep finding things to distract me (like reading blogs) than I'm probably out of integrity with me and less happy than I would be if I was doing what I should.

Last night for example, my 5 year old flooded the bathroom because she was mad I put her in there for a time out. My response, have some ice cream. Don't feel better, yet? Have some more. (I've digressed.)

Here's the interesting thing. Even though I've taken a break from reading blogs and writing in mine I've been miserable. Taking a break from blogging hasn't helped me be more happy, anymore than taking a break from exercising does. Which brings me to my question of why blog?

I decided awhile back I want to inspire people to be their best selves. I felt like some of the things I posted here might help do that. More importantly, though, might be the good effect it has on me when I focus on the good things in my life and then highlight those things as I share. I'd forgotten that recently.

I think I'll get right back to blogging. (Maybe after I get caught up on my scripture study, and house cleaning. Or maybe once the kids are back in school. Oh, how that will be a happy day!)

Raging Waters is a Winner

Papa invited us to his work party at Raging Waters yesterday. What a Blast! Not realizing that this would make such good blog material I left the camera home, so there won't be any pictures. What a bummer. Now no one else gets to see how adorable or adventurous the kids were. I can attempt to tell you, but I have a feeling it's one of those things you'd have to experience to really understand. Suffice it to say, Collin declared it "His best day this year!" And the other 2 kids agreed.

I had a great time too, but I'm experiencing some loss--the loss of having little children. How can I really complain that having all the kids able to ride every ride is somehow bad? Haven't I waited 11 years not to have to sit in the kiddy pool while everyone else experienced the heart pounding adrenaline rush that I was missing? Why am I sad that my children are doing exactly what they ought to do--grow? I'm not really sad, I guess, maybe nostalgic is a better word.

When Breanne wanted to fly through the air and drop 100 feet I was the only one saying, "Are you sure?" Well, that's not totally true, Ross said the same thing. But after watching all of us do it, Breanne would not be denied. Didn't she understand the rest of us were scared silly as we carried our mat to the top of the slide?

I suppose it won't be the first time I watch my little girl climb confidently forward, while I sit anxiously on the side waiting for her safe return. If she's faces every challenge with such ease how could I really be sad? And if she is a little scared near the top of a challenge, I hope she'll continue to move forward, like she did yesterday, close her eyes when she needs to and then open them again right near the finish with the same kind of wide eyed wonder and awe. And when it's all over I hope I'm there to see every smile as her face beams with pride, and she says, "Let's do it again!"

I'm inspired by my children and grateful for the lessons that I learn as their mom. Much love and thanks go out to Papa for inviting us.

Busted! Connor Caught the Toothfairy

About ten minutes after I left a dollar under Connor's pillow last night, he came hobbling down the stairs. He had this sort of just woke up, angry, smiling look and he pointed his finger at me and said, "Mommy, you're the tooth fairy." I was so shocked and definately guilty I didn't say anything, because I didn't know what to say. Connor then made some statement about how his parents really lie to him, and Tyson was right this whole time.

He felt betrayed and I was caught. I hugged him for awhile. And tried to explain that we didn't really LIE to him as much as we just were playing a fun game with him. I hope he doesn't use that one on me, but I suppose I'll deserve it. Lucky for me Connor was more happy about catching me than he was angry. He agreed to stay in on the game for his little sister's sake. I was glad he's happy to play along, because this morning at scriptures he announced that the tooth fairy brought him a dollar.

We're Not Exactly an Ensign Picture--Yet!

I was inspired today in Sacrament meeting by our neighbor, Robbie Corniea, and his family. He's going on a mission next month to Pennsylvania and today he spoke to us in Sacrament meeting. The truth is I'm inspired by the Corneia's often. I think I've even told Marianne as I've walked by her house in the morning and all the kids are out in the yard doing yard work together, "You inspire me." It's true. I look to their example and think, "I can learn from this." I'm not kidding when I say, they at times, look like a picture from the Ensign. You can imagine, can't you, a Saomoan family working together in the yard.

I don't think I could get a picture of my family working together into the Ensign. You can just imagine it, can't you? Somebody is kicking someday while the other one hit 'em back. I'd be yelling in the background. The pictures in the Ensign of family prayer are funny to me too, only because I wouldn't know what to think if everyone actually kneeled in a circle, with their eyes closed. In the pictures, of course, everyone's hair is done and they have clean clothes on. That alone would be a feat.

I guess that's why I felt especially inspired by President Shorter's words at the end of sacrament meeting today. He said something to the effect of, "Keep having family prayer with your family, even if your children are poking each other and saying, 'He's poking me.' Collin even looked at me, surprised that Pres. Shorter would know so well how it is in our house and said, "He's definately talking about OUR family." I had to smile. Then Pres. Shorter said something like, "Continue to teach and love your children, and hold family home evening. It will be worth it. And someday they will thank you." I was inspired, by this, because even if my family doesn't look like a picture, there is STILL Hope.

Then I got an imagine in my mind of my family looking like something from a magazine. It's years from now when Collin is a grown-up boy, putting his arms around me, and saying, "Thank you, Mom." Even now it brings tears to my eyes. And I can imagine being a very proud mom and listening to him speak in Sacrament meeting about the things his parents have done that prepared him to serve a faithful mission, and I'm absolutely sure it will be worth it.

I know I risk getting preachy here but I'll share the scripture in Alma 26:12 that touched me in Sunday School giving me even more hope, "Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; yea, behold many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever." This vision of Collin saying "thank you to me" would pretty much be a miracle, that I'm starting to believe in, and I'm ready and willing to work at it with the Lord's help.

P.S. I'm adding this reminder (for myself) to acknowledge the hand of God in all things in my life. "Yea, who can say too much of his great power, and of his mercy, and of his long-suffering towards the children of men?" Alma 26:16
Thank you.

I am a Champion Donut Rider!

As far as my ego goes, I'm picking my races pretty well these days. Ross joined the Rotary Club not too long ago and ended up volunteering today (with the kids) for their fundraising event, the Tour de Donut. It's a 7 mile course done in 3 loops for a total of 21 miles. After the first 7 miles you eat as many donuts as you want, and for each one you keep down you get 3 minutes off your time.

I wasn't really sure I wanted to eat donuts between laps, so I just decided as I went along. Since my chain came off in the first few minutes after the start I was behind from the beginning. After the first 7 miles I opted for no donuts which helped me pass a lot of riders. The next time around I thought I'd try it. I'm all about experiencing new things and I figured eating a donut in the middle of a race was an experience worth trying.

It was a little harder than I thought it would be. Half a donut would have been fine but eating the last 1/2 became somewhat of a burden, and sticky. These were excellent Krisy Kreme donuts, but I just didn't enjoy it like I might have had I not been in such a hurry. I managed to ride pretty fast, at least fast enough to be the first woman across the finish line. Woohoo! My time was 58 minutes.

No cool prizes this time, just a trophy and bragging rights. They actually gave away 2 awards, one for the first one across the finish line, and another with the adjusted donut time subtracted. The first man across the finish line finished in 47 minutes, I think. The other girl who won with an adjusted time ate 3-5 donuts, I think, with an adjusted time of 48 minutes. The guy who won ate 25 donuts with an adjusted time of negative 3 mintues. Now that's impressive!

Ross and the kids get the award for best volunteers on the course and best cheering squad! Even though the kids didn't ride they did get some donuts at the end while we waited for awards. Collin-5, Connor-3, Breanne 3. Next year hopefully we'll all ride.

Envy, My Deadly Sin

Ok, so maybe it’s not competition that is bad. It’s ENVY.

So here I am deciding to focus on parenting my children and stop focusing on competing in triathlons, thinking maybe this will help me to stop measuring myself against others.
Ha! The measuring myself against others is still there no matter what I’m focusing on. And I find that I feel pretty crappy about the way I measure up.

We’ll take Courtney for example. She’s got 5 kids, and is now single parenting her children in my home for the last two months, while her husband visits on weekends. I’ve been in denial of the fact that I don’t measure up, but let’s face it she’s more patient, kind, loving, better organized, more compassionate…(shall I go on?) with her children than I am with mine. No wonder I was doing a race for every weekend the last 4 or 5 weeks? I was feeling pretty good about myself, comparatively.

When Courtney asked me if she could move in for a few months I laughed and said, “Ross would never go for that.” I was hoping he would say no for me because I wouldn’t. He being the supportive, loving husband that he is opened his home for my good and said, “The sooner the better.” Not wanting to be the bad guy, I tried to agree as readily as he did and here we are now some version of the Brady Bunch or an FLDS compound but not really either.

It’s becoming clear to me that jealousy must really be the most awful sin. I know because of the story Courtney told me when she got home from the park last night.

She came in at 7pm after a long day with five children (one who tests anyone’s energy because he’s 20 months old and into everything all the time). She seemed a little tired and then admitted to us that she had had an embarrassing “Luke moment” at the park. He was throwing a fit. I said, “Well, having a “Luke Moment’ isn’t embarrassing, depending on how you handled it.”

“Yea, I guess it was my reaction to his fit that was embarrassing.” And we chuckled a bit. I mentioned that yes, when I hear people being mean, or yelling at their kids whether at the store, or the park, or the neighbor’s house, it always seems like an ugly sound. And then I realize, “Oh, I sound like that sometimes. How terrible.” But a little part of me is a tiny glad, that I’m not the only one in the world making mistakes. Courtney said, “Yea, when I hear you yell at your children I don’t feel glad, it only makes me want to cry.” She’s one upped me again, she’s more compassionate than me too!

Maybe I’ll find a race to do this weekend.

We Deserve to Be Made Fun Of

Thanks Natalie, for showing me this blog. I laughed, got offended, and then laughed again. Truthfully I wish I could be that funny! Way to go anonymous blogger. We mormon bloggers deserve it.


http://seriouslysoblessed.blogspot.com/

Swinging Back to Focus on Family

I swing back and forth from being selfish and really enjoying my life by racing on weekends (I've been in a race every weekend now for a month) to concentrating on my family and putting their needs first.

Today I shifted back to concentrating on my family's needs (if only for a moment, or month or two, hopefully forever.)

Awhile back I mentioned in a post that I'd seen some blessings come from the bulging disk in my back, and I promised that I would write on that someday. One of those blessings was increased time focusing on serving my kids and husband.

I remember specifically one weekend this Spring camping with my family and hiking around the lake thinking, "This back injury must really be a blessing, because as much as I wish I were on a bike ride right now (working to get faster) if I didn't have this injury I would be missing this time with my family." And I felt really grateful for my injury.

Learning to be grateful in all things hasn't come naturally for me, but sometimes all it takes is a little twist of perspective and then it's not too hard. Perhaps, I'm even grateful for Collin acting out in a way that alarmed both me and my husband enough to seek counseling today, (which has already been sooo helpful.) (Perhaps I've crossed the line intruding on his privacy by mentioning that on my blog,) but I'm getting a tiny more bold here.

We were talking about something completely different the other day when Carol C. spurred me on by saying, "Why don't you write about that on your blog, Jenn? That's the real stuff." And I think I specifically said something, like, "Because it's not an anonymous blog, Carol. I've got pictures of my whole family up there. Do you really I think I should divulge stuff?" Well, anyway. I haven't figured out how much to say in order to be authentic and also helpful to others and how much not to say in order to protect the privacy of my kids and other everyday encounters. (Actually what she wanted me to write was my feelings after the Bishop's talk in Jan. on modesty--which I may eventually have the guts to do--except that I'm in the RS Presidendy now, so we'll see. The real truth is I believe my bishop to be a truly inspired, loving, incredible man. It was just my feelings that were the problem. I'm sure someday I'll say more.)

But for now I'll just continue to muddle along not really knowing the best way to blog or to parent, what's new? Just doing what I hope is right and good. I guess that's all any of us do really. Don't you think? Plus, we all know when kids and parents get counseling it's really to help the parents--even though I'm so glad it's helping Collin. (Maybe we'll actually get through summer without anyone getting hurt, or more hurt.) If you ever need a family therapist I know several and wouldn't hesitate to recommend Darren Johanssen, Dr. Paul Jenkins, or Dr. Jason Adams--all incredible! And I'm listening to Dr. Randy Hyde's parenting CD which seems to be helping.

I'm really grateful for incredible people doing what they're really good at and blessing my life because of it. That's what I aspire to.

Is competion Good or Bad?

I've got something on my mind, and it's eating at me in ways that keep me from getting other things done. It's this question--is competition good or bad? You see one of my swimming parents (a parent of one of the kids I coach) made the comment to me, "I'm so glad my son is getting more competitive." And I'm thinking, "Really, is that a good thing?" What about all the negative effects of comparing, and negative self-worth, and crap that come from measuring yourself against others. "Do you really want to encourage kids to do that?"

I didn't actually say any of that. The truth is I'm very competitive. Duh, that's not a revelation to anyone who knows me.

I grew up competing. Not just in swimming but in everything. My parents raced each other in the seperate cars we took home from church. Everything was a competition. In elementary school I wanted to read faster, read more and do better at everything on the playground than all the other kids. In my mind, I pretty much did. Whether that's true or not, who knows, but I remember pretty vividly bringing my high point trophy from summer swimming to third grade show and tell, just because my best friend, Mary Meyer, brought her much smaller trophy for participation the time before. I'm not bragging about this now. I'm actually ashamed that I didn't know how to build my friend up or encourage her. After all these years I'd thought I'd learned better than that, but no.

I found myself having a conversation with Jen Lynsky this week where she admitted not wanting to race me in triathlon because she's so competitive. I laughed it off saying, "It won't hurt our friendship on my end as long as I always beat you." That comment alone probably already hurt our friendship.

After all these years I'd thought I had really progressed by teaching my swimmers to compare themselves only to themselves and their own best time. "It's not about anyone else." "It's about doing your best!" Blah, blah, blah. It's not that I don't believe my own words, because I do, it's just that I'm not living them that bothers me.

So what do you think? Is competition good or bad? Any thoughts?

Getting Faster

Over the last several years I've watched a few of my friends go from being non-swimmers or non-bikers, or non-runners to real athletes. The progression from my point view (and I've done this too) goes something like, "I want to lose some weight. I'll try running." to "I need a reason to keep exercising--I'll sign up for a race." then eventually "Now that I know I can race, I wonder how fast I can really go? How can I be faster?"

Of course everyone is different, and the goals and motivations for participating in adult athletics vary from person to person. I'm not discoutning the fact that it's just FUN. Why would I do anything else?

But somewhere along the way the desire to improve and somehow be faster than last time is one of the things that keeps us going.

Which brings me to today's post. Today I was faster on my bike than I've ever been before. This is only a tiny decieving because I'm not in any better shape yet, though I still hope to be someday. (Biking is where I have the least experience and the most room for improvement.)

Today I hit 44mph on my bike going down Suncrest. Ross wasn't exactly happy with me when I told him except that he's glad I came home safely. It was the first time I didn't ride my brake going downhill (and I actually pedaled a little). There's something very exhilirating about going down the mountian on my bike breaking the speed limit. Call me a rebel.

San Rafael Classic Sprint Triathlon

It started Friday afternoon when my sister Courtney offered to watch the kids so that Ross and I could go on a date. I decided to check trifind.com just to see what races were coming up. I was surprised to see one the next day that allowed same day entry and free camping. I did a tiny more research to find out it was only an hour and a half drive away. I got really excited. I called my friend to see if I could borrow her wetsuit again, (I've really got to buy one of those if I want to drop everything to race triathlon at a moments notice--Thanks Jen, I couldn't have done it without you) And to make a long story short everything fell together so that by 7:30pm Ross and I were on our way to go camping for the evening and to race triathlon in the morning.

The race went around Huntington State Park near Price, Utah. It was a small race, about 100 people signed up in all. A little part of me wished we had brought the kids because they had a children's tri too and I think they would have really enjoyed it. Maybe by next year they'll be old enough to safely monitor themselves while mom and dad both race. In the meantime, thanks go out to Grandma and Papa for dropping everything to watch them Sat. morning.
The biggest surprise of all was that I actually WON! I'm pretty used to being one of the first women out of the water and then getting passed sometime before I even get on my bike and then again several times through both the bike and the run. But not today! When I got to the bike turn around (after 7.5 miles of uphill climbing we got to go back down the mountain--my favorite part) the volunteers at the water station told me I was the first women so far. "Let's keep it that way," I said, which brought them some chuckles. And I was pretty happy to do that. Even on my run as I waited for girls to come running past me, I tried to tell myself, "It doesn't matter what anyone else is doing. Run your best race and that's all that matters." For this day, my best happened to be the fastest out there. Even though it's somewhat unbelievable it's exciting!
This is me after hearing my name to receive my award. Looks like I'm pretty happy about that.
I'll have to get a picture of me sitting in my new patio chair care of Sportsman's Warehouse. They actually give prizes to the overall men and women's winner. Right now my chair is still in the box in the garage, but already it's my most favorite piece of furniture, because of what it represents--my first triathlon win ever! How cool is that. Shhh! Don't tell any other triathletes about this race, as long as no really fast people show up, maybe I could do it again next year.

Wasatch Back--Way to go Mountain Mamas!

We did it! Starting out on Friday morning and finishing on Saturday afternoon our team, the "Mountain Mamas" ran a total of 190 miles on the beautiful mountain roads from Logan to Park City Utah. This is a picture of us getting packed and leaving home. It was fun so fun to see all the team vehicles decorated and a few teams like ours wore costumes. Of all the team names some of my other favorites were, "Not-so-macho-libres", "Bunions of Steel", "Our wives think we're at work" and Collin's favorite was "Homestar runners."

If I was giving prizes to each of the ladies in my van Elaine would get the award for sewing all of our costume aprons. She would also get the award for the "best blue tights" unfortunately I didn't get a picture of those (she wore them for her middle of the night run) and she would also get the award for the "funniest to be around when sleep deprived." If I ever get a chance to pull an all nighter with Elaine I would jump at it in a heart beat. Kudos go to "No Pain Elaine!"

Jen L. gets the award titled, "Most likely to be recruited by another team" Not only did she race up the most intense hill climb "Ragnar" passing men on her way, she really did have a guy on another team tell her he wanted her on his team next year. He loved that she was cheering him and letting him know how many miles left. She also had some banter with another male team that went something like, "You can't hit on us, Can't you see from our team name that we're all mamas" to which he replied something like, "I don't see any Mountain Papas around." I think next year, maybe we will have a team the "Mamas and the Papas."

This is Jan, Jen's sister-in-law. She gets the award for "most life experience." She says she ran her first marathon in her mid 30's but didn't really get into running until the last few years, she's now in her 50's. She also is the "least likely to know her name and address." And she and her husband also get the "relief award" for providing their home in Midway where we slept from 6-8am and had a warm shower. That was heavenly!

Rachel ran the most miles with other runners. She was the most likely to be on the course getting us water and taking care of us as we ran. She is extremely upbeat and positive. You can count on Rachel for a smile and support. Her awards are "Team cheerleader" and "Water girl"

Barb's husband gets the "papa" award for being signed up to tend 8 kids during the race, though it ended up being only his 4. (So, sorry about that Carol) I wish I had gotten a picture of him at the finish with the 4 kids and the dog all to support his wife at the finish. Barb also gets the award for "mostly likely to be left behind, or to think she's left behind." We'd never leave you, Barb. We need you!

Here's a picture near Midway after Elaine and I are all finished, while Jan is running. I'm sad we never did manage to get a picture of the six of us together. We do have a picture of the 12 of us (including the six in the other van) from the finish line--just not with my camera. All in all I had the time of life! One of my favorite parts was lying next to the lake in my sleeping bag under the moon and the stars. I love the beautiful world the Lord created and I felt so blessed to enjoy it with great people doing something that I truly love. What else can I say? Amazing! I love you guys!

The day I've been waiting for

Four years ago when Collin first joined the swim team Breanne was 1 and Connor was 3. I knew the day would come when all the kids would be able to swim in a meet. Yesterday was that day. Of course, I am a very proud swim mom. My kids are Awesome! and pretty good swimmers too.If these pictures tell us anything, it's that their moods swing from high to low. I love this one of Connor and his new toothless grin. He was excited to swim and performed very well.
Collin is the most vocal about his dislike of swimming meets. He swam incredibly well and was very proud of his good effort. I was proud of him too. I think he's most happy about the pizza he knows mom will get him when he puts in his best effort.
Breanne actually swam really well at the meet and had tons of fun with her friends. This picture portrays the fat lip she was giving her dad in an attempt to bully him into buying her pizza in addition to the snowcone she just had. For such a happy, free spirit she sure is moody. If I remember right her passport picture looks something like this. Wonder if she'll regret that someday?
She really did love swimming in the meet. We've got video of her first 25 freestyle, which we'll have to post soon because it's so darling I can't help myself.
Way to go Ironmoores! Keep up the good work. You make your mama proud!

Happy Father's Day

Here's a tribute to my dad for Father's Day. Just like one of the speakers in church today, when I think of my Dad I think of vacations. Here's my dad on his boat, where he lives in the caribbean. He loves vacations. I remember being little and going to the cottage in Michigan in the summer where I learned to water ski in Higgins Lake. I'm guessing that now a days people wear wetsuits in this lake when learning to ski. I was never that lucky. I have pictures of me when I was 4 or 5 on my dad's shoulders while he skied. I'm thinking I must have got much of my adventuring spirit from my dad.

When we got older and my parents divorced, my dad took all 5 kids (I'm the oldest) on his own driving all night long from Ohio to Florida. Only now can I truly understand and appreciate the way he put suitcases around his seat in the van to keep us from standing really close to him and talking, laughing, or screaming in his ear while he was driving. This was the era before seatbelts were mandatory and even though we had mattresses to lay on in the back I think our favorite spot to be was standing right behind or right next to the driver and looking out the front windshield. Only now as a mother can I truly appreciate what he was trying to do, but at the time I was a little upset and maybe even offended that he didn't want us to to stand next to him while he drove. Boy, how our perspective changes.

On a different car trip I remember specifically thinking, "When I become an adult I'm going to remember what it was like being a kid! And I'm going to treat kids the way they want." That's funny, the last time Ross and I took a long road trip I think we took the seat behind the driver out of the car and then strapped them all in tightly with their seat belts. I have every confidence my kids will do something similar.

Salem Spring Triathlon

It's been a year since Ross and I competed together. It's hard to believe I haven't done any races since then, though Ross did the Logan marathon in September. I've missed it more than I wanted to admit. And even though I'm still nursing the bulging disk in my back I was able to go out and race fast and have fun. (Here's to our physical therapist friend Derick's good advice to stay in shape by doing the eliptical trainer, swimming, and some stretches he's given me. I really appreciate him.)

Yesterday Ross and I competed in the annual Salem Spring Triathlon. It was so much fun! The bike portion ended up being cancelled because of rain, which was pretty good news for me. What was supposed to be a 750 m. swim, 13 mile bike and 5K run ended up being a 500 meter swim and 5K run. Because of my injury I considered just doing the swim and not finishing the run, but the atmosphere was so fun, I just had to give it a try. Two girls in my heat (and also my age group) finished faster than me on the swim. They were cooking! I was going pretty hard too. According to the results it looks like I may have passed one of them on the run. To make things even better the woman who got first overall was in my age group. So...when they tally the results by age groups her name isn't considered since her name is already among the top three overall placements. http://www.milliseconds.com/ResultsQuery2.php?varRaceID=1049&urlVarType=Age%20Division%20is That means the winners for women 35-39 says Jennifer Moore. That's pretty cool.

Too bad we didn't get any cool pictures since we left the camera in the car (safely out of the rain) which was parked far from the race. That's ok though, because as far as a date out with my husband it was great time spent. Infact, I can't think of much else I enjoy more than a fun race and a little boost to my ego. The icing on the cake was to hang out with one of my former swimmers, Analyn, who was competing in her first ever triathlon. She beat me by two minutes or so, which is awesome! That 25-29 age group ended up being really fast with her in it.

For another few days I'm on top of the world. And I'm more motivated right now than ever to sign up for another race sooner than a year from now. So I really want my back to heal! Would begging God help? (That's probably a whole 'nother blog post--I'm seeing all kinds of other blessings in my life because of my back injury, I'll tell you about it sometime. Doesn't that seem silly the way the Lord blesses us with stuff we want that we didn't really know we wanted because we wanted something else? If you followed that you are gifted because I'm truly rambling.) But for today I feel happy. (And lucky for you I usually don't blog on those down days.) Here's to hoping you feel happy too.

Family Home Evening

Should I admit it? Sometimes family home evening is less than pleasant. I can't imagine that's much of a news flash to anyone who's actually tried doing it. But perhaps it's somewhat comforting to know that we are all in the same boat together.

But...everyone once in awhile the lesson is inspiring, the kids manage not to hurt each other, and we get through the evening realizing we've enjoyed each other's company. We had one of these last night Wohoo!

Courtney used her unique abilities to make us a cool chart assigning each of the lesson, conducting, scripture, song and prayer. This is different for us because normally Ross conducts chooses someone on the spot for prayer and song and I do the lesson and the dessert. Every once in awhile I'll get the kids to help. I've been pretty pleased with this scenario because at least we're having family home evening. Now we have an even better way that works really great with 8 kids and 3 parents.

Last night Jordyn and Breanne worked together on the lesson and it was incredible. Can we keep Jordyn year round? Breanne was beaming as she presented the part of the lesson that Jordyn assigned her. I nearly cried with joy when the two of them together taught us. It was one of those mom "moments" Elder Ballard talked about at conference. I'm writing it down to capture it.

The night was nearly perfect, but of course we couldn't get through it without someone eventually falling apart. Luke chose the activity, trampoline dodge ball. That's pretty fun until some five year old gets beamed in the head, or another five year old gets told they have to get off the trampoline because they just got hit with the ball, again. We have 3 five year olds right now. Hey we made it through nearly an hour of family home evening before the melt downs. I'll say it again, Wohoo!

Parenting Breakthrough Part 2

On the front cover of the book Parenting Breakthrough: A Real life solution to teaching your kids to work, etc. etc. ( I don't remember the rest of the title of the book, because I'm still working on first things first--and that's getting my kids to work) there is a picture of a boy scrubbing a toilet. This picture of Breanne cleaning the toilet reminds me of the cover of the book. Well, in theme at least. She is cheesing a little, and you'll probably notice my toilet paper missing from the holder (does anyone else lose these mysterioulsy when switching out for a new roll? Oh dear.)
The point of all this is I'm having a few wins now that Courtney's kids are here setting a good example for us. And now that school's out we can spend our time like the book says, training the kids to work around the house. I'm so very proud of all of them for doing many jobs yesterday and starting out on a good foot for summer.
I'm pretty sure this is Collin's first time at working at any one thing for over 2 hours (well, except maybe writing his book which doesn't seem like work for him.) He was out in the sun slaving away with his dad looking on teaching him how to make nice lines. Kudos to Ross for his patience and teaching! Especially since when I went out to show Collin a few spots he missed he truly came undone and wanted to quit. Ross, on the other hand knows just how to talk to Collin to get a great response. I'm confident that I'll learn in time.

I can see this may be an ongoing post theme because I can think of lots of things related to this topic. Ok, I'll post two more ideas now.

After cleaning the bathroom Breanne said, "Ok, now I'll tell everyone not to use this one."

Then as I was talking to Connor about how nice it feels to have a clean home where the spirit can dwell with us I said something like, "Don't you feel so good when we work together?" And he said well, "Yea, when we do it and your not yelling at us. I always like that better." Well, I like it too!