tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16672328457032068242024-03-13T09:16:25.850-07:00A City Girl Goes Country...and takes her family along for the ride.Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-43977947144334173592014-02-04T10:05:00.000-08:002014-02-04T10:05:05.101-08:00Lost Change...Here it is February and I have missed writing, writing is good therapy. I had forgotten that. I write in my journal, and that helps. My mom always taught me to write what I feel in my journal, the good, the bad, and yes even the ugly. I'd rather write it down than let it fester and eat me up inside. So if you were to read my journal one day... I hope it is not until I leave this earthly life, but if you read it, somethings are good, some are alright, some are sad, some may even make you mad, but it is how I feel and see the world around me. We all have our own truth and my journal is mine. Yes, my husband has read some of my journals, and he still loves me, and personally to me he is the only one that matters.<br />
All that being said, in the last 4 1/2 months I have not written much...<br />
Not in my journal...<br />
Not here...<br />
<br />
Grief is a strange thing...<br />
It creeps in at the strangest times, it loves to surprise me. Just when I think I have it under control it is there once again.<br />
So I am taking this grief and embracing it...<br />
I am writing it...<br />
<br />
2013 was the year of lost change...<br />
<br />
Change can be good, change can help us grow, change helps us to move from point A to point B, and change can lead to better things. I am usually enjoy a little change, I love new experiences, I love going to new places and seeing new faces. Yes, change can be good.<br />
<br />
This year, for whatever reason, change came with loss...<br />
<br />
a loss of a friend...<br />
a loss of a job...<br />
a loss of a dear friends husband...<br />
a loss of a mother...<br />
a loss of a cousins son...<br />
a loss of an aunt...<br />
Yes, Heaven has some amazing angels.<br />
<br />
With losses came much change...<br />
a graduation...<br />
a mission call...<br />
a move...<br />
a new school year... (four kids in four different schools)<br />
a step down from teaching... (love the kids, but my family needs me more)<br />
a new job...<br />
a Missionary...<br />
a move...<br />
new schools...<br />
new city...<br />
<br />
The best change is that of our Missionary...<br />
Elder Cottrell is growing and changing with each letter. As hard as it is to let go, letting him go into the mission field is easier than just letting him go. <br />
<br />
Change has helped me focus on the blessings that I have. I must use these blessing to help with my grief. Oh how I miss my mom, she was a good one, but now I will embrace my sadness for a moment, and remember that I was blessed to have a mother who showed those around her that she loved them. Grief has allowed me time to reflect on all that is good, tears because of all the good that will be missed.<br />
<br />
2014 will be the year of gratitude...<br />
how can it not with all my angels looking out for me.Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-16615081224708136262013-10-11T17:29:00.000-07:002013-10-11T17:29:15.318-07:00And Life goes on......Wow, this ride is at times a little more bumpy than I like...<br />
Don't get me wrong, I love a good roller coaster <a href="http://cottspott.blogspot.com/2010/02/to-ride-or-not-to-ride.html">here</a>. <br />
<br />
For the most part I can look back and say... I did it, I made it, I can learn from this, I can move on... <br />
<br />
This time my heart hurts, and I have questioned why... A LOT.<br />
<br />
It has been almost a month since my mom took her last breath... a month since I held her hand as she passed from this earth... a month since I left my family here in Texas thinking I would be back in a few days when grandma was back on her feet... a month since I stood with my dad and siblings asking Heavenly Father to give us the strength we need to let her go...<br />
<br />
I miss her...<br />
I grieve for my dad...<br />
I grieve for my children...<br />
I grieve for my siblings...<br />
I grieve for me...<br />
<br />
I have had to stop myself the past few weeks from calling her phone, because I knew she would have the answer. Just days before I flew to Knoxville I was talking to her on the phone about a few things going on in my life, and her word were so reassuring... "oh, Sis, things will work out, they always do"... not sure how <em>this,</em> is the "working out" part. <br />
<br />
I know there is a greater plan than the one I have and sometimes my course needs to be corrected a bit... just didn't want this. Do we ever? <br />
<br />
I have had an amazing earthly mother for almost 42 years. She raised me to be who I am today and for that I am blessed.<br />
<br />
I will write more about her passing and services, but tonight I am going to cry, again...<br />
Yes, even the ugly snot cry that Juli told me is best to do in the shower...<br />
<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oggZAOAyG_g/UliWGt3Y0WI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/_XlpsWYwvEM/s1600/eldersister1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oggZAOAyG_g/UliWGt3Y0WI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/_XlpsWYwvEM/s320/eldersister1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last family picture before they left on their mission to Knoxville TN May 2013</td></tr>
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Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-866453450153353422013-07-16T14:08:00.000-07:002013-07-16T14:08:17.631-07:00Birthday season begins......this week begins the season of birthdays for our family.<br />
Peyton and Nate share a birthday week. <br />
Within six days we enjoy two birthday dinners... <br />
...one Mac and Cheese, the other Monte Cristo sandwiches... YUM!!! <br />
Two birthday cakes... one chocolate, the other lemon... YUM!!! <br />
There will be no dieting this week I will celebrate my oldest and youngest sons birth...<br />
<br />
18 years ago I became a mom...<br />
that same boy will make me a missionary mom...<br />
10 years ago I became a mom to a little boy who would show his mom how fasting, prayer, and faith work...<br />
both will be serving missions...<br />
Peyton has been on one for a long time, glad Nate will get a chance to be like his little brother.<br />
<br />
Love you boys!!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yk0VjHcW8nE/UeWyaKXwUPI/AAAAAAAAA2o/tmysJj1xDmA/s1600/IMG_1579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yk0VjHcW8nE/UeWyaKXwUPI/AAAAAAAAA2o/tmysJj1xDmA/s320/IMG_1579.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peyton and Nate</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JabYVxJ5yw/UeWzD41mfLI/AAAAAAAAA24/1M-zEkll3FQ/s1600/IMG_7332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JabYVxJ5yw/UeWzD41mfLI/AAAAAAAAA24/1M-zEkll3FQ/s320/IMG_7332.JPG" width="196" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Birthday Peyton</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SiDVQZeBA30/UeWzSZMwXwI/AAAAAAAAA3A/N5DLTQp-Esg/s1600/IMG_7340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SiDVQZeBA30/UeWzSZMwXwI/AAAAAAAAA3A/N5DLTQp-Esg/s320/IMG_7340.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peyton practicing his photography</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PypEIM2v6XY/UeWzgd1PMDI/AAAAAAAAA3I/tRYPl_vm7WY/s1600/IMG_7954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PypEIM2v6XY/UeWzgd1PMDI/AAAAAAAAA3I/tRYPl_vm7WY/s320/IMG_7954.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My missionaries</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4XREEGsBT_c/UeWztVzYXfI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/xwifpmIajTE/s1600/NateCSenior-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4XREEGsBT_c/UeWztVzYXfI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/xwifpmIajTE/s320/NateCSenior-22.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Birthday Nate</td></tr>
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Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-15724639993676142462013-06-29T14:22:00.002-07:002013-06-29T14:22:57.264-07:00From 5 to 18 in a blink of an eye...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Graduation has come and gone and I'm still recovering...</div>
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where did the time go?</div>
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When Nate was little Steve and I use to talk about all the amazing things he was going to do and how we wanted him to do it all NOW!!!</div>
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Yes, first time parents are a little crazy,</div>
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Why did I want to rush it?</div>
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It's here...</div>
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is he ready?</div>
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am I?</div>
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</div>
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He thinks he is...</div>
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he is the one trying to rush...</div>
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I am trying to slow it down</div>
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It's too late.</div>
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A few pictures to document this great adventure we are on</div>
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Life and graduation...</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rgyeg0FFG0Y/Uc9MQPwGNBI/AAAAAAAAA0I/mYb7ZuWd1B8/s1600/IMG_8293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rgyeg0FFG0Y/Uc9MQPwGNBI/AAAAAAAAA0I/mYb7ZuWd1B8/s320/IMG_8293.JPG" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He looks so thrilled...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5em7rOqkp_o/Uc9MV1P21BI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/NsiUEqOlOr8/s1600/IMG_8298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5em7rOqkp_o/Uc9MV1P21BI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/NsiUEqOlOr8/s320/IMG_8298.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">what a handsome young man</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vzE89Xhyveo/Uc9Mep6xIMI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/-ekxLiEOSIo/s1600/IMG_8339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vzE89Xhyveo/Uc9Mep6xIMI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/-ekxLiEOSIo/s320/IMG_8339.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graduation cap hair and dad trying not to be emotional</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IM3Eb-gS_Yk/Uc9Mn2ldPbI/AAAAAAAAA0g/l823h5O6a2s/s1600/IMG_8344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IM3Eb-gS_Yk/Uc9Mn2ldPbI/AAAAAAAAA0g/l823h5O6a2s/s320/IMG_8344.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She is thrilled this is not a day dedicated to her</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XlKQgVinF10/Uc9MvHLbnfI/AAAAAAAAA0o/qy3uHQTd4ig/s1600/IMG_8341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XlKQgVinF10/Uc9MvHLbnfI/AAAAAAAAA0o/qy3uHQTd4ig/s320/IMG_8341.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graduate and family</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U_0pYGLJ47k/Uc9M5v4Ek7I/AAAAAAAAA0w/VnwBMAdIqTQ/s1600/IMG_8347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U_0pYGLJ47k/Uc9M5v4Ek7I/AAAAAAAAA0w/VnwBMAdIqTQ/s320/IMG_8347.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">family... thanks for the support</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nx4B0s7CVQo/Uc9NB619G6I/AAAAAAAAA04/85JlhhbzbFM/s1600/IMG_8348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nx4B0s7CVQo/Uc9NB619G6I/AAAAAAAAA04/85JlhhbzbFM/s320/IMG_8348.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 graduates</td></tr>
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Now we are on to our next destination in life... a mission.<br />
<br />
Nate will report to the MTC in Provo UT to prepare him to teach the gospel to the people in Mexico Mexico City Southeast Mission...<br />
<br />
and he thought life was going to get easier leaving home...<br />
<br />
We LOVE you Nate...<br />
<br />
You will do great things!Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-92127807401996033352013-06-11T12:21:00.000-07:002013-06-11T12:21:05.506-07:00what a month it has been...It is strange to me that the last month of school is CRAZY!! Everything is due, everyone preforms, and this year we threw in a graduation.<br />
It is at times like these when I wonder how moms with fewer kids cope... I'm sure they are busy...just less...maybe??<br />
so here is our month in pictures...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fKH8-WubbcI/Ubd1PoV6myI/AAAAAAAAAwE/zXeI6yOy-Ss/s1600/IMG_8075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fKH8-WubbcI/Ubd1PoV6myI/AAAAAAAAAwE/zXeI6yOy-Ss/s320/IMG_8075.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cams final football game</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hBCx1FGGpk/Ubd1X0EZYRI/AAAAAAAAAwM/vE1lyV6NAlQ/s1600/IMG_8101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hBCx1FGGpk/Ubd1X0EZYRI/AAAAAAAAAwM/vE1lyV6NAlQ/s320/IMG_8101.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cams last band concert</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YN82M_G3yeY/Ubd1jCCs5GI/AAAAAAAAAwU/t7luBgVuJ0Y/s1600/IMG_8164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YN82M_G3yeY/Ubd1jCCs5GI/AAAAAAAAAwU/t7luBgVuJ0Y/s320/IMG_8164.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last Pink Dolphin soccer game</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GQMXHIT8qWk/Ubd1r1vj_TI/AAAAAAAAAwc/nTvznVX6Z8Q/s1600/IMG_8168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GQMXHIT8qWk/Ubd1r1vj_TI/AAAAAAAAAwc/nTvznVX6Z8Q/s320/IMG_8168.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mase in Pop show</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HKpheED2ej0/Ubd1xPz5G-I/AAAAAAAAAwk/YC0VYEj6Kco/s1600/IMG_8179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HKpheED2ej0/Ubd1xPz5G-I/AAAAAAAAAwk/YC0VYEj6Kco/s320/IMG_8179.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nate singing his solo for the last time at Pop show </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FTCHXeH76I4/Ubd19650lXI/AAAAAAAAAws/QSP7EZpjIDY/s1600/IMG_8225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FTCHXeH76I4/Ubd19650lXI/AAAAAAAAAws/QSP7EZpjIDY/s320/IMG_8225.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prom</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NNSys3Kvdjg/Ubd2D7zW0II/AAAAAAAAAw0/nG3A_SZC6Cc/s1600/IMG_8241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NNSys3Kvdjg/Ubd2D7zW0II/AAAAAAAAAw0/nG3A_SZC6Cc/s320/IMG_8241.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My final Kindergarten awards</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uDaqzI3xDII/Ubd2K0sWlcI/AAAAAAAAAw8/NfsAakH8bcE/s1600/IMG_8244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uDaqzI3xDII/Ubd2K0sWlcI/AAAAAAAAAw8/NfsAakH8bcE/s320/IMG_8244.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">4th grade awards</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qtl1cl_Nypk/Ubd2WXkD0hI/AAAAAAAAAxE/uH7ZCyOgPas/s1600/IMG_8271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qtl1cl_Nypk/Ubd2WXkD0hI/AAAAAAAAAxE/uH7ZCyOgPas/s320/IMG_8271.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Singers company</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DG_8j18bPA8/Ubd2iRzXB1I/AAAAAAAAAxM/9efW0wzhNrc/s1600/IMG_8276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DG_8j18bPA8/Ubd2iRzXB1I/AAAAAAAAAxM/9efW0wzhNrc/s320/IMG_8276.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing Divas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1pFhqRWsfCc/Ubd23u64U9I/AAAAAAAAAxU/Fo5UkeKAbFQ/s1600/IMG_8340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1pFhqRWsfCc/Ubd23u64U9I/AAAAAAAAAxU/Fo5UkeKAbFQ/s320/IMG_8340.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graduation... more to come later.<br />
<br />
It is a blessing to be a mom...<br />
<br />
<br />
a busy blessing!<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-14701653567895012212013-05-20T20:46:00.000-07:002013-05-20T21:09:40.746-07:00To a life that never sleeps......it seems that it was just moments ago when I became a mom.<br />
I am the imperfect mom who became the mom of a perfect boy.<br />
Who once was this...<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n9ZexuMO_uw/UZrw1SyuGzI/AAAAAAAAAvc/HG5YVgCTyLE/s1600/nateat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n9ZexuMO_uw/UZrw1SyuGzI/AAAAAAAAAvc/HG5YVgCTyLE/s320/nateat1.jpg" width="309" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Has grow into this...<br />
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He did it...</div>
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He taught me to be a better mom...</div>
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He is a thinker...an observer of the world around him...kind...loyal...quiet...honest...</div>
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I am going to miss this guy...</div>
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It's hard for moms to grow up.</div>
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Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-60707822011259484982013-03-17T15:38:00.000-07:002013-03-17T18:01:41.340-07:00Happy Sunday...Today I was in charge of Sharing time (teaching a group of children from ages 3 to 11) at church...<br />
I love being around all of children..<br />
they can bring a sweet spirit to my Sunday...<br />
<br />
I sure when the Savior comes again he will go to primary (children's church) first...<br />
<br />
My topic today was on the blessings of the Resurrection...<br />
We talked about how Christs disciples were sad when he died...<br />
we talked of those who have come before us who have died, and how we are sad too...<br />
<br />
We talked of how sad Mary must have felt when she went to the tomb to find it empty...<br />
Then how Mary felt when moments later she recognized the Saviors voice calling her by name...<br />
<br />
The blessing of the Resurrection is that we ALL will live again...<br />
I will one day see my sweet friend that left this world far to soon...<br />
I will visit with my Grandma O who I still miss everyday...<br />
But most of all I will meet the Father-in-law I have never met...<br />
the man whose influence is still felt today...<br />
<br />
Sunday is the day that continues to renew my spirit...<br />
get me ready for the next week...<br />
and helps me remember that I can always be better than I am today...<br />
<br />
What a blessing it is to celebrate the Easter season again, to renew, to be better.<br />
<br />
Sure helps me deal with the toilet that leaked all night flooding the bathroom, hall, and managed to seep through the ceiling to the living room downstairs..<br />
Good times...<br />
<br />
Happy Sunday!Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-28303210911202553992013-03-12T18:08:00.001-07:002013-03-12T18:11:30.070-07:00Courage...Changes are happening around the house...<br />
Some wanted...<br />
Others not...<br />
<br />
Many require stepping into the unknown...<br />
<br />
One that has been nagging at me for quiet a while...<br />
<br />
One that brings me "present"...<br />
<br />
to my children...<br />
to my husband...<br />
to myself...<br />
<br />
A step off a cliff...<br />
<br />
I will not be teaching next year...<br />
<br />
I'm going to be MOM, WIFE, and ME...<br />
<br />
How grateful I am to have a loving Heavenly Father who prods me, and at times forces me to look at the big picture. He has and will continue to guide me, I just need to listen...<br />
<br />
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Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-57491360035060398242013-02-21T03:25:00.001-08:002013-02-21T03:35:26.653-08:00What's important...Wow, it has been a long time...<br />
and truth be told, I am Okay with that...<br />
I seem to be letting a lot of things slide... <br />
some I am not Okay with...<br />
I should pick a new word this year, but I'm thinking "present" needs to sink in a tad bit more...<br />
<br />
Life around here is crazy, and it doesn't show any signs of changing... <br />
at least for a while...<br />
<br />
Last month life has given me a chance to reflect and take notice of what is truly important...<br />
<br />
A funeral of a sweet friend, a young wife, a mom. She leaves five children, two who are still babies, and a grieving husband...<br />
I asked why... <br />
Other stresses in life were put into perspective as I watched her family grieve for their wife and mother...<br />
<br />
What is important...<br />
A bigger and better home? a new car? a larger bank account? all the debt that goes with it?<br />
<br />
What is important...<br />
Two things...<br />
Two things that at times have bounced around on the "to do" list because I know that they will always be there...<br />
Two things...<br />
<br />
My relationship with the Savior Jesus Christ...<br />
My Family...<br />
These are the things that matter...<br />
These are what make me be a better person, friend, wife, and mother...<br />
Changes have and will be made...<br />
As I ponder a bit more on this subject enjoy a moment in time of what is important to me...<br />
<br />
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<br />Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-57252184668276315542012-10-10T20:44:00.001-07:002012-10-10T20:44:59.168-07:00A New Season...<div style="text-align: center;">
...soccer! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...brothers are excited...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...Marra, not so much... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJL6kpN88kA/UHY6V7dOikI/AAAAAAAAArE/BqaMjEskt4c/s1600/IMG_1253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJL6kpN88kA/UHY6V7dOikI/AAAAAAAAArE/BqaMjEskt4c/s320/IMG_1253.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">how she spent her time during practice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...the long walk to the field...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--VNEDL6_W74/UHY6mwIy4cI/AAAAAAAAArM/ZB55PwtCFFY/s1600/IMG_1254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--VNEDL6_W74/UHY6mwIy4cI/AAAAAAAAArM/ZB55PwtCFFY/s320/IMG_1254.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ready to play</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...it helps when you have such a cute ref...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A-Fg73gpBOA/UHY6-AkJ2cI/AAAAAAAAArY/OrsClORyUp4/s1600/IMG_1260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A-Fg73gpBOA/UHY6-AkJ2cI/AAAAAAAAArY/OrsClORyUp4/s320/IMG_1260.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">coin flip, princess or pirates</td></tr>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...yes most of the game was spent crying...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TjosSwYUNYY/UHY7ReEhHNI/AAAAAAAAArg/4cxI_QM-g14/s1600/IMG_1276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TjosSwYUNYY/UHY7ReEhHNI/AAAAAAAAArg/4cxI_QM-g14/s320/IMG_1276.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">coach dad ends her pain, at least for a quarter</td></tr>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...even tried to get a hug from the ref...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Brsij3g4zVU/UHY7l0TfN7I/AAAAAAAAArs/0FioANBluwE/s1600/IMG_1299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Brsij3g4zVU/UHY7l0TfN7I/AAAAAAAAArs/0FioANBluwE/s320/IMG_1299.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">thinking about kicking it</td></tr>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...the tears ended...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...thinking it was the snacks...</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pm0J_uqFGZU/UHY73VkGLXI/AAAAAAAAAr0/3TAiOM95tmM/s1600/IMG_1318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pm0J_uqFGZU/UHY73VkGLXI/AAAAAAAAAr0/3TAiOM95tmM/s320/IMG_1318.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...having your brother for the ref helps a little...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pf0wMjOARNU/UHY8Fa__dLI/AAAAAAAAAsA/dJ2zY5HtjDU/s1600/IMG_1323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pf0wMjOARNU/UHY8Fa__dLI/AAAAAAAAAsA/dJ2zY5HtjDU/s320/IMG_1323.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">go nate</td></tr>
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<br />Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-73079088922565503442012-08-29T19:35:00.000-07:002012-08-29T19:35:43.009-07:00A begining and an end...... I knew this day would come.<br />
I was ready... <br />
I soon realized, I wasn't prepared at all. <br />
I have a senior and a kindergartner.<br />
CRAZY!!!<br />
Where one begins, another one ends.<br />
And...<br />
I cried.<br />
Yep, I cried.<br />
Now before you lump me with all the moms and dads who cling to their children while they are entering the classroom, <br />
I dealt with my drama...<br />
alone.<br />
It started at 3 a.m. <br />
I did manage to get myself together by the time I needed to get them all off to school.<br />
It's going to be a great year. <br />
<br />
Much growth can be expected.<br />
<br />
And not a glimpse into our morning. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-URUEYY693ug/UD7LS-AxwgI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/HDflFuyJX0E/s1600/IMG_1217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-URUEYY693ug/UD7LS-AxwgI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/HDflFuyJX0E/s320/IMG_1217.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kindergarten</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CW81nuBJPE0/UD7LzHx-BnI/AAAAAAAAAoY/iuasC57_gxk/s1600/IMG_1218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CW81nuBJPE0/UD7LzHx-BnI/AAAAAAAAAoY/iuasC57_gxk/s320/IMG_1218.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">4th grade</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ievt6yz8BSk/UD7MRvqk7uI/AAAAAAAAAok/RbyP7gdqyJU/s1600/IMG_1222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ievt6yz8BSk/UD7MRvqk7uI/AAAAAAAAAok/RbyP7gdqyJU/s320/IMG_1222.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6th grade, first year of middle school</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gn_yb2Gx9vY/UD7M0RftrMI/AAAAAAAAAos/YfVoVX6Ll2k/s1600/IMG_1224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gn_yb2Gx9vY/UD7M0RftrMI/AAAAAAAAAos/YfVoVX6Ll2k/s320/IMG_1224.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9th grade, first year of high school</td></tr>
</tbody></table> the senior even let me take his picture. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NCfnMm47TaY/UD7Nak2ID3I/AAAAAAAAAo4/vPCs2WHqSEg/s1600/IMG_1225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NCfnMm47TaY/UD7Nak2ID3I/AAAAAAAAAo4/vPCs2WHqSEg/s320/IMG_1225.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SENIOR</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1CuWlMekMXc/UD7OA6y0kLI/AAAAAAAAApA/qz0bgiG07m8/s1600/IMG_1230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1CuWlMekMXc/UD7OA6y0kLI/AAAAAAAAApA/qz0bgiG07m8/s320/IMG_1230.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">play dough always makes the start of any day great</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I9vfnd-v2Aw/UD7Oj5Zh1MI/AAAAAAAAApM/RAnJv28OZmI/s1600/IMG_1226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I9vfnd-v2Aw/UD7Oj5Zh1MI/AAAAAAAAApM/RAnJv28OZmI/s320/IMG_1226.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for a great year!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-23043436371824483512012-07-08T17:27:00.002-07:002012-07-08T17:27:38.933-07:00Hip hip horray for Mr. Touchdown and a little lightning...<div style="text-align: center;">
We have seen our fair share of sports around these parts...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
football,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
basketball,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
soccer,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
karate,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and even baseball.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But after months of training...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
a new sport has made it way into the testosterone veins of the household</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
New sport shoes were purchased,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
a new uniform too... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
with a bit of sparkle...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FL5QaCiQHHs/T_ofC16YECI/AAAAAAAAAm0/8m-QWmUyGpY/s1600/IMG_0994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FL5QaCiQHHs/T_ofC16YECI/AAAAAAAAAm0/8m-QWmUyGpY/s320/IMG_0994.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
a ruffle or two...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tDvI2_8sH1Y/T_ofTd3ERoI/AAAAAAAAAm8/6Co146MFe0o/s1600/IMG_0995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tDvI2_8sH1Y/T_ofTd3ERoI/AAAAAAAAAm8/6Co146MFe0o/s320/IMG_0995.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
add in a few team mates,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and a star is born!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ks6GH01u9Ek/T_off79hvjI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/msREvmetiXQ/s1600/IMG_1009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="95" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ks6GH01u9Ek/T_off79hvjI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/msREvmetiXQ/s320/IMG_1009.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Touchdown</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
our star is on the right...</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n4B6q8BxvAw/T_ofziU-9JI/AAAAAAAAAng/xysiMywxBYg/s1600/IMG_1000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="136" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n4B6q8BxvAw/T_ofziU-9JI/AAAAAAAAAng/xysiMywxBYg/s320/IMG_1000.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grease Lightning</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
don't forget the flowers...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DfGJZNlA_TE/T_of-j8_6NI/AAAAAAAAAno/CG6nlvWMCu8/s1600/IMG_1010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DfGJZNlA_TE/T_of-j8_6NI/AAAAAAAAAno/CG6nlvWMCu8/s320/IMG_1010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and brothers who cheered her on.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WtNRCaxigY0/T_ogRiWWoII/AAAAAAAAAn0/r645sQuhr9s/s1600/IMG_1014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WtNRCaxigY0/T_ogRiWWoII/AAAAAAAAAn0/r645sQuhr9s/s320/IMG_1014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was a good game for all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PKrviXZjDNQ/T_ogizKhBAI/AAAAAAAAAn8/2pYyOtYx5H8/s1600/IMG_1017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PKrviXZjDNQ/T_ogizKhBAI/AAAAAAAAAn8/2pYyOtYx5H8/s320/IMG_1017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am sure this sport is here to stay.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After all the sporting events sis has endured in her five years,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I think brothers can put up with one concert a year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I think the teenagers actually enjoyed themselves.</div>Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-48420519727942428172012-05-06T07:27:00.001-07:002012-05-06T07:29:55.786-07:00We have entered a new era......<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>Prom</em></strong></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rWDq4tSrrbc/T6YZSRofIYI/AAAAAAAAAmI/ktPArnHsulc/s1600/IMG_0437+-+Copy+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rWDq4tSrrbc/T6YZSRofIYI/AAAAAAAAAmI/ktPArnHsulc/s320/IMG_0437+-+Copy+-+Copy.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Crazy, I know.<br />
I didn't think I was old enough for this yet,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
apparently I am,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or at least that is what my sweet son keeps telling me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
prom is simple...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uqf71jW4y_4/T6Yb3BrxbrI/AAAAAAAAAmo/DQ086Bq9iGA/s1600/IMG_0427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uqf71jW4y_4/T6Yb3BrxbrI/AAAAAAAAAmo/DQ086Bq9iGA/s320/IMG_0427.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
flowers,</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NKl-WeSbAlQ/T6YZ0evY5GI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/2DpcJ_2WeXs/s1600/IMG_0445+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NKl-WeSbAlQ/T6YZ0evY5GI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/2DpcJ_2WeXs/s320/IMG_0445+-+Copy.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
few handsome young men.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V71tDH0YHiw/T6YabsuhxrI/AAAAAAAAAmY/jNJUlNOVzZM/s1600/IMG_0438+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V71tDH0YHiw/T6YabsuhxrI/AAAAAAAAAmY/jNJUlNOVzZM/s320/IMG_0438+-+Copy.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
some gorgeous girls,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNSGibaSMJk/T6Ya7a54aUI/AAAAAAAAAmg/EAQqVBnlCkY/s1600/IMG_0462+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNSGibaSMJk/T6Ya7a54aUI/AAAAAAAAAmg/EAQqVBnlCkY/s320/IMG_0462+-+Copy.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
all adds up to a great night with friends.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now it's on to finding a summer job so a certain prom patron can afford his dating life and college. </div>Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-80442697546190614102012-04-10T15:20:00.001-07:002012-04-10T15:20:30.247-07:00I knew I would miss those days....I have taken a three day vacation from work,<br />
and have discovered that I am not very good at this staying home bit. <br />
I can honestly say I am BORED!!! <br />
That is not to say I have nothing to do.<br />
I have plenty,<br />
laundry to put away...<br />
unload the dishwasher...again...<br />
dust...<br />
clean a toilet...again...<br />
ohhhh the list goes on.<br />
I have only been home from work for two days and at 10:30 this morning, I am ready to go back.<br />
Back to the business of my day.<br />
I did all the stuff I needed to do for the day by 10:00 a.m. <br />
That includes dinner, dishes, and laundry. <br />
Marra is ready to be with her friends at school... <br />
I am ready to be around a few adults...<br />
It's funny to think that just a few years ago when my kids where little I seemed to be busy, at home, all the time and nothing seemed to get done around the house.<br />
Now there are no noses to wipe, no diapers to change, no nap times to work around, no boo boo to kiss, and no stories to read over and over again, (that happens when they are all reading on their own). <br />
Yes,I miss those days.<br />
I knew I would, just didn't think it would be so soon.<br />
For now I will look forward to going back to work on Thursday, and leave a few pictures for grandma and papa to enjoy from our never boring weekends.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LTZQ69ZpX_Q/T4SvQYoBWTI/AAAAAAAAAls/bZb79ZgDJZA/s1600/IMG_0257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LTZQ69ZpX_Q/T4SvQYoBWTI/AAAAAAAAAls/bZb79ZgDJZA/s320/IMG_0257.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nate with his choir</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kje5aH4s-Q8/T4SnO06fgDI/AAAAAAAAAlE/17tGCRo-uSI/s1600/IMG_0297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kje5aH4s-Q8/T4SnO06fgDI/AAAAAAAAAlE/17tGCRo-uSI/s320/IMG_0297.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cam and flag football</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RROrxv8tWyQ/T4SnvyaRYuI/AAAAAAAAAlM/LfiyQ72hhCw/s1600/IMG_0296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RROrxv8tWyQ/T4SnvyaRYuI/AAAAAAAAAlM/LfiyQ72hhCw/s320/IMG_0296.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running the track at football</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jssN5obEmnI/T4SoFSZGGlI/AAAAAAAAAlU/0ig28X_YwUA/s1600/IMG_0249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jssN5obEmnI/T4SoFSZGGlI/AAAAAAAAAlU/0ig28X_YwUA/s320/IMG_0249.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mase and a little singing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6YRY285JXkY/T4Ss6fuzN0I/AAAAAAAAAlk/nBZnt0H-3H0/s1600/IMG_0237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6YRY285JXkY/T4Ss6fuzN0I/AAAAAAAAAlk/nBZnt0H-3H0/s320/IMG_0237.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bit of guitar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M73rzI88p1g/T4SwUb7D-jI/AAAAAAAAAl0/NrSRCuH0YXw/s1600/IMG_0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M73rzI88p1g/T4SwUb7D-jI/AAAAAAAAAl0/NrSRCuH0YXw/s320/IMG_0142.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the smell of cleaning in the morning</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now that the kids are all home from school it is not so quiet and plenty of crazy to enjoy...</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Karate, basketball, football, and homework never gets old..</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Right?</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-70019536923239048832012-03-10T15:20:00.000-08:002012-03-10T15:20:10.911-08:00Hair today...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
...Once upon a time there was a little girl who LOVED a movie about a young princess who never cut her hair. A movie where this young princess would let down this said hair and her to be prince would climb up into her tower and rescue her. This little girl knew that she could never cut her hair if she ever wanted a prince...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That was until last month when she decided that the short princess haircut was the way to go.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I waited a while to see if she would change her mind...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
...4 weeks later</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
the appointment was made...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b2FmHyUwJX0/T1vclHl9thI/AAAAAAAAAks/7VaDRjCHB5U/s1600/Marra+061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b2FmHyUwJX0/T1vclHl9thI/AAAAAAAAAks/7VaDRjCHB5U/s320/Marra+061.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Before... </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ny554HdM20U/T1vdD3R3bOI/AAAAAAAAAk0/PFTlFUHruBE/s1600/Marra+062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ny554HdM20U/T1vdD3R3bOI/AAAAAAAAAk0/PFTlFUHruBE/s320/Marra+062.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
during... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and 11 inches later...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--yteXgThabo/T1vda0ht4oI/AAAAAAAAAk8/U_gr0ZJk2JA/s1600/Marra+064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--yteXgThabo/T1vda0ht4oI/AAAAAAAAAk8/U_gr0ZJk2JA/s320/Marra+064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Locks of Love is getting her golden locks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pretty big desicion for a 5 year old.</div>Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-72606146438148325402012-03-06T17:48:00.000-08:002012-03-06T17:48:30.969-08:00A Day of Rest......to be "present" on the day of rest, means I will try to join the kiddos in activities that may be going on, I will set aside a Sunday nap for the greater good, family.<br />
All the time?<br />
I will try. Sunday is a day with a lot of no's at our home.<br />
<br />
No basketball,<br />
No Ballet,<br />
No work,<br />
No football,<br />
No school,<br />
<br />
just family.<br />
<br />
This week, due to some procrastination, we set out to help Cam finish his science fair project.<br />
<br />
Yes, it was Sunday.<br />
Yes, the project involved a ball (I know shocking).<br />
Yes, even a couple of the kids ran around.<br />
But, my fabulous hubby bought me a new camera and I wanted to try it out, mostly on the sport shots.<br />
<br />
Science Fair 2012. <br />
"Bat"ter Up<br />
Which bat hits farthest: metal, foam, plastic.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DqpCHhhw6oU/T1aRCY98fJI/AAAAAAAAAjk/I3-2XINIud4/s1600/Marra+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DqpCHhhw6oU/T1aRCY98fJI/AAAAAAAAAjk/I3-2XINIud4/s320/Marra+035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cam in full swing.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7rHRdUD5vnY/T1aRUT8CxfI/AAAAAAAAAjs/FAJRhP2yFMI/s1600/Marra+038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7rHRdUD5vnY/T1aRUT8CxfI/AAAAAAAAAjs/FAJRhP2yFMI/s320/Marra+038.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Peyton</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e2vfw_FtbbE/T1aRqIUZA4I/AAAAAAAAAj0/hUImPEG5LqA/s1600/Marra+041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e2vfw_FtbbE/T1aRqIUZA4I/AAAAAAAAAj0/hUImPEG5LqA/s320/Marra+041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Peyters and Nate in the outfield</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DiEad2w-Mr8/T1aSIF5aqdI/AAAAAAAAAj8/0qItSnKYp7s/s1600/Marra+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DiEad2w-Mr8/T1aSIF5aqdI/AAAAAAAAAj8/0qItSnKYp7s/s320/Marra+027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dad pitching</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mase was the catcher, and Marra cheered from the sidelines and fed the cows.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The camera was fun to play with and Cam's project was done on time and he did it (the poster) all on his own. After watching all the other projects walk in this morning, pretty sure more parents did work than the kids.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Next time maybe we will start a little sooner.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-52318626261325503442012-02-27T20:00:00.001-08:002012-02-29T06:46:52.410-08:00I must confess.....I like to listen to sports talk radio.<br />
<br />
I know the girl who swore she would NEVER marry any one who loved sports, just happened to meet and marry the biggest sports fan. Alright maybe not the biggest, I do not have to decorate my house with sports paraphernalia, but pretty close. Baseball cards and magazines are a part of my life. I avoid most sports on TV, why watch when the volume of our house can tell me of a win or loss or even a great play. That, and Cam is always running in with detailed updates. Who needs sports.<br />
Apparently I do..<br />
<br />
I used to listen to music..<br />
but have discovered listening to the music on the radio in the morning is filled with Hollywood talk. Why should I care who is sleeping with who and if a paternity test is needed. So my children really need to hear that?<br />
So I moved on...<br />
<br />
I moved on to talk radio...<br />
I soon tired of the politics.<br />
Perhaps it is due to the childhood memories of running around the state capitol building waiting for the session to end so my parents would take me home. Often I slept in the window sill waiting for that last bill to be signed.<br />
So I moved on again...<br />
<br />
I let Marra choose the CD, but I can only listen to "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" for so long before the actual spiders creep into my brain feasting on what is left of my brain cells.<br />
I had to move on once more...<br />
<br />
In my search for entertainment on my hour drive in the morning as I take children to seminary and school, I came across sports talk radio, and I laughed, my boys laughed, and Marra has even giggled a bit. <br />
<br />
They are funny.<br />
<br />
They say things I wish I could say.<br />
<br />
My boys think I am almost cool.<br />
<br />
I even amaze Steve with a few stats here and there.<br />
<br />
Most of all I like that they say things as they really are.<br />
<br />
Players, just do what you are getting paid for.<br />
Play ball, just ball, no politics, just sports.<br />
<br />
Now if only I can find a station that tells Hollywood and Washington to do the same.<br />
My mornings would be set.<br />
<br />
Then again, if the players aren't listening,<br />
Hollywood and Washington probably aren't either.Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-25243463472352607892012-02-02T19:22:00.000-08:002012-02-02T19:22:37.211-08:00Moments...... so my perfect moment has come and gone, and many more moments have been replaced. Many wonderful, some not so great, and the rest just the usual.<br />
Life.<br />
<br />
Days seem to fly by and I wonder how things never seems to slow down. <br />
I fear I may be missing some of these moments because...<br />
I forgot to pay attention...<br />
I forgot that my first born is going to be a senior next year... <br />
WHAT? <br />
Wasn't it yesterday that I was watching him on the sideline playing soccer praying that he would kick the ball in the right direction. Now I pray he is headed in the right direction when he is driving himself home.<br />
<br />
Didn't I just turn 30?<br />
<br />
Wasn't I just praying that my baby boy #3 would sleep just for a moment?...<br />
Alright that one I am still praying for, it been 10 years, pretty sure he's not sleeping anytime soon.<br />
<br />
It seems only yesterday when I cried hearing the news that baby boy #4 would most likely never walk, never talk, and the outcome of his life was uncertain...<br />
Yet he proved them all wrong and does all of the above, perhaps not in the way most of us do, but he gets it done.<br />
<br />
Yep moments are fleeting...<br />
<br />
And because this is so I have chosen a new word to center me this year. <br />
<br />
<em>present</em>...<br />
<br />
<em>present</em>: a moment in time, between past and future; now. Being, alert, at hand. Attentive. A gift.<br />
<br />
Now not sure my kids would call me a gift, but perhaps some day they will. <br />
For now I will work on the present. <br />
The me that I can control and do so if need be moment to moment.<br />
Perhaps even see those moments that I thought had passed.<br />
<br />
At the present time I am off to bed, work is put away, dishes are done, and all my blessings are quietly tucked into bed in preparation for the world they must face tomorrow.Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-36330070039779815652011-12-27T18:51:00.000-08:002011-12-27T18:51:59.611-08:00A perfect moment......yep they happen even in my house. Tonight I had a perfect moment in time, one that I wish I could have stopped time, for just a moment.<br />
A moment of joy, peace, and maybe a little magic. <br />
Time stopped for just a moment, while I was in the kitchen preparing dinner, Pandora playing a little "Wicked", while Marra danced around with her tutu and magic wand.<br />
Nate had taken Peyton on a drive to get a Slurpee, (that's what big brothers do).<br />
Cam and Mase enjoying being together, and dad reading in his favorite chair.<br />
Sounds a little 1950's.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j000C1_WV6c/TvqCho812yI/AAAAAAAAAjc/OZz6OV16yUo/s1600/retro-housewife.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j000C1_WV6c/TvqCho812yI/AAAAAAAAAjc/OZz6OV16yUo/s200/retro-housewife.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
It was <em>perfect</em>.<br />
<br />
Everyone was <em>content</em>.<br />
<br />
Everyone was<em> happy</em>. <br />
<br />
These are the moments when I know being a <span style="font-size: large;">wife</span> and a <span style="font-size: large;">mother</span> is what I am suppose to be doing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1950's and all.</span>Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-15294476070314702912011-11-20T22:43:00.000-08:002011-11-20T22:43:44.494-08:00Let the vacation begin......I have known for a year now that we would be making the big trek out west to my parents home for Thanksgiving. But for whatever reason, I waited until the last week to get ready. NOT the best way to start the trip, but hey it works out for us all in the end.<br />
<br />
20 hours in the car...<br />
only stopping for gas...<br />
driving straight through the night...<br />
making it in time to see our friends football game...<br />
Cafe Rio..<br />
<br />
worth it.<br />
<br />
Our many friends here have made the lack of sleep bearable.<br />
<br />
Currently we are on day two and enjoying time as a family and seeing some of our friends here in Las Vegas.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KGkZI7wxG9Q/TsnwYyGV-FI/AAAAAAAAAjA/YeH_dg3nn9M/s1600/vegas+trip+day+1+and+2+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KGkZI7wxG9Q/TsnwYyGV-FI/AAAAAAAAAjA/YeH_dg3nn9M/s320/vegas+trip+day+1+and+2+008.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The view from our room.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The boys are ready to play on the beach, who knew Vegas had a beach.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VVCWAv_Hy-g/TsnwcC2XgyI/AAAAAAAAAjI/Rjz4ba23Ksw/s1600/vegas+trip+day+1+and+2+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VVCWAv_Hy-g/TsnwcC2XgyI/AAAAAAAAAjI/Rjz4ba23Ksw/s320/vegas+trip+day+1+and+2+019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sitting outside by one of the many water fountains.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So far the highlights of the trip have been friends and watching my children enjoy being together. Tomorrow it is more friends and a date for Nate the Great.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yes he has been waiting for this date for a long time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...Peytonism: something always sounds better if you put "resort" at the end of it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">bed resort, bath resort, school resort... he may be on to something.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-57771164732800859282011-11-13T18:00:00.000-08:002011-11-13T18:00:16.466-08:00My favorite day at church......Once a year the children in Primary (children's church), present the program for our Sunday services. It is my favorite meeting of the year. <br />
There are many reasons why, but the main reason is because to hear the testimony of a child through scripture and song of our Savior, Jesus Christ makes for a very powerful and uplifting church service.<br />
<br />
Of course I cried a few times throughout the meeting. <br />
<br />
I love to see my children sing, and I always have one who does a little entertaining as well.<br />
<br />
It is usually Cam, and he did so again.<br />
<br />
Not sure if the the highlight of his entertaining was him doing the "walking down the stairs" and slowly disappearing below, or watching him do the robot. <br />
<br />
We smiled, clenched our teeth, and mouthed SING!!! <br />
<br />
Eventually he stopped looking in our direction. <br />
<br />
He did sing...eventually.<br />
<br />
Marra and Peyton smiled, and between the three of them (Cam included), it was a wonderful meeting.<br />
<br />
To watch my children testify of Christ and to feel their testimonies is truly priceless.<br />
<br />
I love my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is my elder brother, and I am forever grateful for his atoning sacrifice for me, and all others on this earth. I know that I am blessed. I know that it is through Him that I too can live with Him and Heavenly Father again. I know that I am a child of God. There is nothing more that I want for my children then for them to know the same. <br />
<br />
To witness this program every year gives me hope that I am on the right track.<br />
<br />
Next year I will remember to bring tissue.Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-50844715573971322052011-11-12T19:15:00.000-08:002011-11-13T17:27:23.622-08:00Wow it has been a while......I would love to say I have moved mountains in my absence, but no, I have kept up mostly with my family. <br />
<br />
Big things happening here, well big for our family.<br />
<br />
Steve and I are officially the BIG 4-0. I know, I can't believe it either. My hair has been telling me how old I am for YEARS, (thank you Grandma O). <br />
40 has not been too bad. I did have a small breakdown, but that may be due to the fact that my oldest set up a time to take his SAT. <br />
40 is reminding me that my children are growing up, and my parents are getting older, and life is not slowing down at all. <br />
<br />
Nate is an official driver. I know CRAZY!!!! He can now drive without a parent in the car, he can drive to dances alone. Now here's to hoping he can get a job to drive to, to pay for this lovely insurance we get to pay for.<br />
<br />
Mase made the singing group at school "Limelight". It still amazes me how much he love to sing, or is it entertain? He also made the 8th grade basketball team. Let the basketball season begin.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a6ns9GHlkkA/TsBqUUVpcUI/AAAAAAAAAi4/nSsi0U2AY14/s1600/cousin+in+austin+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a6ns9GHlkkA/TsBqUUVpcUI/AAAAAAAAAi4/nSsi0U2AY14/s320/cousin+in+austin+029.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cam at Halloween, he was cleaner in this picture.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
Cam survived three days at 5th grade camp. Alright I will be honest, he LOVED it. I missed him sooo much. So I survived him being at camp for three days. Now he is ready for more basketball.<br />
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Peyton earned his orange belt in karate!!! He has been working so long and hard to move up. He had to break a board with his hand, and did it. I cried, my kids do that to me. <br />
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<br />
Marra is loving ballet and tap. I cry there too.<br />
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<br />
Steve is coaching basketball again, with four boys he will be doing it for years. He is a great coach, and the boys love him and learn so much through him.<br />
<br />
I just finished report cards and am starting parent teacher conferences. I LOVE it. I have the best class. Teaching is fun and the kids seem to be learning. I hope they are learning, we are having a lot of fun. <br />
<br />
I am now helping out in cub scouts. Scouts are always busy, I pray I can keep up.<br />
<br />
Our family is planning on heading to St. George for thanksgiving. The Casper's are having a reunion. It has been years since all of my siblings have been together. It will be so fun.<br />
<br />
Now all I need to do is think of talent to share at the reunion?<br />
<br />
That, and all the other stuff I still need to get done.Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-1986266128741637492011-09-06T06:59:00.000-07:002011-09-06T06:59:51.805-07:00Week one......of life as a wife, mother, and kindergarten teacher was pretty good.<br />
<br />
I still have a few kinks to work out. <br />
Mostly on being a mom. <br />
Nate tells me I'm only fun when other people are around.<br />
I told him I'm just not at my best between 6 and 8 in the morning. <br />
I need to work on that. <br />
<br />
I need to work on a lot of things, but MOM will have to be at the top of my list.<br />
Well, that is kids come 2nd to the hubby of course. <br />
He always comes first.<br />
<br />
Kindergarten is a down further on my list, I think it is almost easier.<br />
Most of the work is done for me, I just do what the book tells me. <br />
<br />
Where is the "how to be an awesome mom book"?<br />
At least the cousins think I'm awesome, (funny how they are not around at 6 am). <br />
<br />
I will work on it. <br />
I promise. <br />
I wonder how I would act if everyone just did everything I needed done without me asking them to do so?<br />
<br />
I would be an awesome mom for sure.<br />
<br />
Until then I will try harder.<br />
Maybe I will actually make a hot breakfast for them every morning.<br />
Laugh when their rooms are a mess.<br />
Happily pick up all the clothes left on the bathroom floor.<br />
Sing while wiping up yet another spill.<br />
<br />
Who am I kidding.<br />
I'm going to try and count to 10 before reminding them of all of the above.<br />
It's a start.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Now on to week two, minus the yelling mom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DpqTysozvPk/TmYm-AA2DRI/AAAAAAAAAiU/j6PgNekBRFo/s1600/IMG_1214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DpqTysozvPk/TmYm-AA2DRI/AAAAAAAAAiU/j6PgNekBRFo/s320/IMG_1214.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm sure the pioneers NEVER yell at their kids. </div>Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-83309430156465295112011-08-22T06:56:00.000-07:002011-08-22T06:56:40.812-07:00It's the First Day of School......at least for four of them. <br />
Marra and I start next week. <br />
More about that later, and a snap shot on how we spent our summer vacation.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SO_cgiXx4Jk/TlJcuDs4ZFI/AAAAAAAAAh4/VU2SH-YwIk0/s1600/IMG_1057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SO_cgiXx4Jk/TlJcuDs4ZFI/AAAAAAAAAh4/VU2SH-YwIk0/s320/IMG_1057.JPG" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Peyton is ready for the 3rd grade and pretty sure he can ace those TAKS tests he has been hearing about from all of his brothers.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kwWCFN9s6GU/TlJc0sgCp3I/AAAAAAAAAh8/58Fcg0F24y4/s1600/IMG_1055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kwWCFN9s6GU/TlJc0sgCp3I/AAAAAAAAAh8/58Fcg0F24y4/s320/IMG_1055.JPG" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cameron is King of the school in the 5th grade. Basketball is front and center in his mind, lets hope his teacher is ready for the energy about to enter her room.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2B2MCral3Ao/TlJc6ZMNz3I/AAAAAAAAAiA/o_CpVI6xP6Y/s1600/IMG_1059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2B2MCral3Ao/TlJc6ZMNz3I/AAAAAAAAAiA/o_CpVI6xP6Y/s320/IMG_1059.JPG" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mase is also King of the school in the 8th grade. Ready for another year of basketball and early morning practices. We tried to get him to play football as well, but he is not going for it. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8c95mWdQkc4/TlJdAACFqZI/AAAAAAAAAiE/6bUj9RLTb5s/s1600/IMG_1061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8c95mWdQkc4/TlJdAACFqZI/AAAAAAAAAiE/6bUj9RLTb5s/s320/IMG_1061.JPG" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nate is a junior. I know, crazy he had to grow. Is enjoying the dating thing, but wishes it was a little cheaper. He has started to be a little more creative and managed a date for free. That is mom and dad already had the food at home, but free to him.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tNoN2DTjsdU/TlJdFmeqXsI/AAAAAAAAAiI/wuKD7ELuKV4/s1600/IMG_1063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tNoN2DTjsdU/TlJdFmeqXsI/AAAAAAAAAiI/wuKD7ELuKV4/s320/IMG_1063.JPG" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The gang ready to go.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nr9RDayo0Hk/TlJdODv86AI/AAAAAAAAAiM/RSRKDrpcQSI/s1600/IMG_1056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nr9RDayo0Hk/TlJdODv86AI/AAAAAAAAAiM/RSRKDrpcQSI/s320/IMG_1056.JPG" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Marra the loan wolf at home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Until next week when she too is in school.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is soooo quiet here at home. Marra is playing with her dollhouse, and the only other sound is that of the fan. What is a mom to do? Dishes? Laundry? Vacuum? no, I think I will read a book. I can do the rest any time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That and get ready for my kindergarten class that starts next week. One book shouldn't hurt.</div><br />
Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1667232845703206824.post-25453748114531270452011-08-09T17:03:00.000-07:002011-08-09T17:03:46.236-07:00It's hard...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">... to let a weekend like this end. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A weekend to remember.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A special day for brothers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A proud moment for parents.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nate baptized Peyton</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family all together.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Both grandma's</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-82C9G6uRtNc/TkHInhtJtMI/AAAAAAAAAh0/GgWW06TZnHw/s1600/IMG_1180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-82C9G6uRtNc/TkHInhtJtMI/AAAAAAAAAh0/GgWW06TZnHw/s320/IMG_1180.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cousins<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UxpM2_n_IZI/TkHIYiYx7OI/AAAAAAAAAhs/XGjWDvZaNgE/s1600/IMG_1166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UxpM2_n_IZI/TkHIYiYx7OI/AAAAAAAAAhs/XGjWDvZaNgE/s320/IMG_1166.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Food, family and friends</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1uIF4bYzfo/TkHIkolwa2I/AAAAAAAAAhw/0WB5CezqB_0/s1600/IMG_1175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1uIF4bYzfo/TkHIkolwa2I/AAAAAAAAAhw/0WB5CezqB_0/s320/IMG_1175.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swimming in hopes of staying cool<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
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</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">It is truly a blessing to have family and friends who support us on our journey through life. Even better when they celebrate with us.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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Marniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10022723964276394376noreply@blogger.com0