A City Girl Goes Country

Moments...

2012-02-02T19:22:00.000-08:00

... 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.
Life.

Days seem to fly by and I wonder how things never seems to slow down.
I fear I may be missing some of these moments because...
I forgot to pay attention...
I forgot that my first born is going to be a senior next year...
WHAT?
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.

Didn't I just turn 30?

Wasn't I just praying that my baby boy #3 would sleep just for a moment?...
Alright that one I am still praying for, it been 10 years, pretty sure he's not sleeping anytime soon.

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...
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.

Yep moments are fleeting...

And because this is so I have chosen a new word to center me this year.

present...

present: a moment in time, between past and future; now. Being, alert, at hand. Attentive. A gift.

Now not sure my kids would call me a gift, but perhaps some day they will.
For now I will work on the present.
The me that I can control and do so if need be moment to moment.
Perhaps even see those moments that I thought had passed.

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.

A perfect moment...

2011-12-27T18:51:00.000-08:00

...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.
A moment of joy, peace, and maybe a little magic.
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.
Nate had taken Peyton on a drive to get a Slurpee, (that's what big brothers do).
Cam and Mase enjoying being together, and dad reading in his favorite chair.
Sounds a little 1950's.

It was perfect.

Everyone was content.

Everyone was happy.

These are the moments when I know being a wife and a mother is what I am suppose to be doing.

1950's and all.

Let the vacation begin...

2011-11-20T22:43:00.000-08:00

...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.

20 hours in the car...
only stopping for gas...
driving straight through the night...
making it in time to see our friends football game...
Cafe Rio..

worth it.

Our many friends here have made the lack of sleep bearable.

Currently we are on day two and enjoying time as a family and seeing some of our friends here in Las Vegas.

The view from our room.

The boys are ready to play on the beach, who knew Vegas had a beach.

Sitting outside by one of the many water fountains.

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.

Yes he has been waiting for this date for a long time.

...Peytonism: something always sounds better if you put "resort" at the end of it.

bed resort, bath resort, school resort... he may be on to something.

My favorite day at church...

2011-11-13T18:00:00.000-08:00

...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.
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.

Of course I cried a few times throughout the meeting.

I love to see my children sing, and I always have one who does a little entertaining as well.

It is usually Cam, and he did so again.

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.

We smiled, clenched our teeth, and mouthed SING!!!

Eventually he stopped looking in our direction.

He did sing...eventually.

Marra and Peyton smiled, and between the three of them (Cam included), it was a wonderful meeting.

To watch my children testify of Christ and to feel their testimonies is truly priceless.

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.

To witness this program every year gives me hope that I am on the right track.

Next year I will remember to bring tissue.

Wow it has been a while...

2011-11-12T19:15:00.000-08:00

...I would love to say I have moved mountains in my absence, but no, I have kept up mostly with my family.

Big things happening here, well big for our family.

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).
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.
40 is reminding me that my children are growing up, and my parents are getting older, and life is not slowing down at all.

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.

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.

Cam at Halloween, he was cleaner in this picture.

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.

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.

Marra is loving ballet and tap. I cry there too.

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.

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.

I am now helping out in cub scouts. Scouts are always busy, I pray I can keep up.

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.

Now all I need to do is think of talent to share at the reunion?

That, and all the other stuff I still need to get done.

Week one...

2011-09-06T06:59:00.000-07:00

...of life as a wife, mother, and kindergarten teacher was pretty good.

I still have a few kinks to work out.
Mostly on being a mom.
Nate tells me I'm only fun when other people are around.
I told him I'm just not at my best between 6 and 8 in the morning.
I need to work on that.

I need to work on a lot of things, but MOM will have to be at the top of my list.
Well, that is kids come 2nd to the hubby of course.
He always comes first.

Kindergarten is a down further on my list, I think it is almost easier.
Most of the work is done for me, I just do what the book tells me.

Where is the "how to be an awesome mom book"?
At least the cousins think I'm awesome, (funny how they are not around at 6 am).

I will work on it.
I promise.
I wonder how I would act if everyone just did everything I needed done without me asking them to do so?

I would be an awesome mom for sure.

Until then I will try harder.
Maybe I will actually make a hot breakfast for them every morning.
Laugh when their rooms are a mess.
Happily pick up all the clothes left on the bathroom floor.
Sing while wiping up yet another spill.

Who am I kidding.
I'm going to try and count to 10 before reminding them of all of the above.
It's a start.

Now on to week two, minus the yelling mom.

I'm sure the pioneers NEVER yell at their kids.

It's the First Day of School...

2011-08-22T06:56:00.000-07:00

...at least for four of them.
Marra and I start next week.
More about that later, and a snap shot on how we spent our summer vacation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The gang ready to go.

Marra the loan wolf at home.

Until next week when she too is in school.

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.

That and get ready for my kindergarten class that starts next week. One book shouldn't hurt.

It's hard...

2011-08-09T17:03:00.000-07:00

... to let a weekend like this end.

A weekend to remember.

A special day for brothers.

A proud moment for parents.

Nate baptized Peyton

Family all together.

Both grandma's

Cousins

Food, family and friends

Swimming in hopes of staying cool

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.

We are melting...

2011-07-31T18:47:00.000-07:00

...it seems only yesterday that we were complaining about the "Big Freeze" here in the great state of Texas.
No one wanted to go outside, after all who owns a coat in Texas.
Ice was everywhere.
We even managed to get a little ice on the inside of our house.

Ice would be nice...

We do have AC, can't wait for that bill.

We have pools to play in.

We even have Popsicles, you have to eat them inside, they melt too fast if you open the door.

We have to leave the windows shut, air is getting a little stale.

We don't have rain.

Oh how we need the rain...

My flowers are dead,
the grass is mostly dead,
and the cars need a scrub.

So while I continue to pray for rain I thought I would catch y'all up on the happenings in this part of our world.

We have some cows,

Enjoyed time in Houston with cousins enjoying the Blue Bell ice cream factory.

Played the wii (again), with cousins.

Could not resist a couple foam wigs to be entertained by.

Or is it the kids that entertain?

Quality magic show, or was it comedy?

Tin foil boats.

A big blue blob, no play dough, homemade.

Why spend the money to watch the real stuff dry out.

An eight-year-old's birthday.

Favorite gift, cash.

A 16th birthday.

Favorite gift, the privilege to date.

A water relay..

and finally a dunking booth.

It's hot and humid, but by next summer we will be used to it. Right?

Up next?

A Baptism.

Way to go Peyters,

and a family road trip.

Stay tuned and see where we end up.

It's been ...

2011-06-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

...busy.
The end of the school year has come and gone. Preschool is over for the year and kindergarten plans are coming along.
Now if only I can keep the kids busy for the summer.
Life is still moving and big changes about the house...

mostly this...

A big step,
a first,
a few more gray hairs (mostly for Steve).

Oh and a little of this...

A bit of this..

who can resist a few moments of "Just Dance" on the wii?

And always a whole lot of Basketball camp. Cam got the hotshot award.

Who knows what Mase will bring back when he returns from BYU basketball camp. I think he's hoping for some digits, from girls that is.

Life keeps us busy, but busy is good.

I lack in many things...

2011-04-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

... mostly time.

I wish I was better at this blogging, so my parents could get happy updates of the going ons in our world. I should be better, my mom writes a note to each of her grandkids EVERY month, not a small task when you have 20+ notes to send. I think I should be able to manage one update a month. Perhaps that should be my goal, but I would hate to fail so I will wait on that one.

Life is busy... work, laundry, paying bills (seems to be the only time I get on the computer), dropping kids off, picking kids up, trying not to panic that my son is learning to drive, and always basketball.

Nate and Mase went rockclimbing with the scouts. Mase who is afraid of heights actually did it. I think our recent trip to Sea World and all the rides we forced him on may have helped.

Marra enjoyed the snow more than anyone. Even when the heat was on she wanted to be outside.

We also enjoyed some much loved "Jimmer" time with our friends.

So life is good, busy and I would love to tell more, but I am off to pick up the kids. Oh how much they need to start taking the bus.

Day 4 of "The Deep Freeze"...

2011-02-04T09:25:00.000-08:00

...and I am ready for the thaw. As a Texan I have developed thin blood, that doesn't seem to warm up in temperatures less than 60 degrees. (I can hear my dad saying "wimp") Aside from the freezing temperatures, and the snow, I need the thaw so my sweet children can be in school. For their safety and my sanity.

Day 1 of no school brought much joy with a day off and Dad home because his office was closed. A miniature golf tournament was started. Marra was content with a few preschool worksheets and scissors and glue. Homemade pizza filled bellies at lunch and soup and homemade bread was enjoyed at dinner. Amazing what you can bake when you are home all day.

Day 2 started early with rolling blackouts and a continuing game of mini golf. Soon a Pokemon war started and golf was forgotten. Soon an NBA tournament on the Wii began and peace from the Pokemon war was restored. "Left-Over Day"was declared for lunch and my sweet hubby braved the streets to bring me a fresh supply of Diet Coke. Dinner was tacos or left-overs again. Thanks to BYU basketball the evening was tolerated.

Day 3 started earlier with the sound of my sweet children arguing about who could be on the computer first. Next came the news that our gas company (we use propane to heat our house and cook) that the gas truck was running SEVERAL days behind so conserve as much as we can - the thermostat was promptly turned 60 and on went my jacket. The kids are in shorts and not bothered with the cold. Mini golf is in the entry way, puzzles are everywhere and Marra is trying to convince her brothers to play her "Princess Chutes and Ladders" game with her. The Wii basketball tournaments continued. Lunch brought "how many bubbles can you blow in your milk", with a side of soup and Panini sandwiches. Fried rice and chicken help the feast and dinner, and my Diet Coke is dwindling once again.

We woke up this morning to greet Day 4 with six inches of fresh powder. Dad's office is closed again. We will make it another day, at least I am pretty sure. I am down to my last cup of Diet Coke and no gas truck yet.

Putting all that aside I am still grateful to enjoy time with my kids and a couple days of hubby at home. After all who else would brave the elements to bring me a drink. Thankful for food storage that has given us much to eat, perhaps i need to store more of my drink.

Now off to enjoy a movie snuggled in a blanket.

Bonse Aba 2 Sloan Creek Choir

2011-01-29T06:06:00.000-08:00

Between basketball and homework Mase, whom I once claimed never sang a note in tune, enjoys singing in the choir at school. He surprised me once again when he announced he was trying out for a solo in choir. The solo turned into an ensemble of 10 boys.

So enjoy the rehearsal at school Mase (red Texas shirt) is one of the boys up front.

Now I'm off to another weekend of basketball, hoping my house will get cleaned during baseball season. I won't hold my breath.

I am a slacker...

2011-01-07T12:32:00.000-08:00

...so a late Merry Christmas to all and a Happy new year.

We did write a christmas letter.

I do have the cards.

No family picture, and my motivation ran out sometime between school ending and New Years.

So Here is the family letter..

via family blog and a few random pictures of our Thanksgiving trip to Georgia.

note not one with the whole family together, maybe I will set the goal to get a

family picture taken this year. Ohhh Steve would be so happy.

2010 was a very eventful year for the Cottrell family.

The biggest event of all occurred in March when after five years of being away, we returned to Texas. Two years after an ill-fated move to Las Vegas just as the economy was beginning to implode, we opted for the security of the area we called home for 7.5 years. After 5 years of vacation in Encinitas and Vegas, we are enjoying country life on a 19-acre spread in Lucas.

Steve is finding more and more specks of gray in his hair, and is still adjusting to his post-knee-surgery lifestyle. No more running or playing basketball, which has been a difficult adjustment. He was able to help out with coaching a few of the boys’ basketball and soccer teams this year, and says that he must be old because he reads only non-fiction except for an occasional Grisham novel.

Marnie is busy running the house, and this year added a new title: Teacher. In preparation for the next stage of her life, she became a pre-school teacher at Little Hart’s Pre-School in Lucas. Next year the school will offer kindergarten for the first time, and Marnie has accepted an offer to teach it. She is busy most days preparing for next year’s curriculum, plus all of the other things associated with running a busy household. More than the rest of us, she really missed Texas and is so happy to be with old friends and acquaintances.

Nathan (15) is in 10^th grade at Lovejoy High School and starting to think about college and working. This year he started to get serious about working out and obtaining the ever-elusive “six-pack”. He will be starting driver’s ed soon and hopes to finish his Eagle requirements soon. He left behind some wonderful friends in Nevada but is making some great new ones in Texas. He enjoys writing, school, and after ending his school basketball career now plays for a team in the local athletic league.

Mason (13) is in 7^th grade at Sloan Creek Middle School. At the beginning of the year he was playing left tackle in football for the Henderson Cowboys as they were one game away from the state championship

for their age group. He is now focusing on basketball as one of the tallest members of the 7^th grade team. He has straight As, and has an outsized, lovable personality that keeps us laughing. We were especially impressed this year with his ability to make new friends quickly after the move.

Cameron (9) is in 4^th grade at Hart Elementary. He constantly impresses us with his knowledge of facts and his memory. He started the year playing football with the mighty mite Henderson Cowboys and was part of a team that only allowed three touchdowns all season, culminating in a championship game with a score of 50-0. He also is an awesome basketball and soccer player, while maintaining straight As and a 100% cumulative grade in his favorite subject, science. He recently won his class spelling bee and will be participating in the school spelling bee after the holidays.

Peyton (7) is in 2^nd grade at Hart Elementary. We can hardly believe that it’s been nearly 6 years since the miraculous surgery to mitigate the impact of a cyst in his brain, and we are thankful every day for his continued improvement and attitude. He is still a little behind on some motor skills, but he has a sharp mind. He has straight As, is getting a workout in his gymnastics class, and is part of the chess club at school.

Marra (4) gets to go to pre-school with Mom most days. She has beautiful long, blonde hair and dreams of being able to wear it like Rapunzel someday. She continues to be all princess with a little tomboy mixed in, and she loves having 4 big brothers who adore her 24/7.

Love from the Cottrell’s

Season come and go...

2010-12-07T15:59:00.000-08:00

We celebrate many seasons at our house: Winter, spring, summer, fall, and of course football and basketball. There is another season however which just ended and has left me exausted and I am sure a few pounds heavier. You may think I am referring to the season of turkey and pie, and while I am truly thankful for all that I have been blessed with, I am talking about our birthday season.

With seven of us in our family we have a birthday every month from July to early December. That means at least one birthday per month and sometimes two. Lots of cake, ice cream, and the following child-planned menus:

Peyton's request: Doughnut, Mac and Cheese, Root Beer, Pizza, and chocolate cake and frosting.

Nate: Chocolate chip pancakes, Subway sandwich, Monte Cristo sandwiches, and vanilla cake with cream cheese frosting.

Mase: Sonic sausage and egg croissant, turkey and cheese sandwich, fish tacos, chocolate cake with chocolate frosting.

Cam: Doughnuts, hot dogs, spaghetti and strawberries, and lemon cake with lemon frosting

Marra: Doughnuts, McDonald's Happy Meal, hot dog, strawberries with vanilla yogurt and a cheese stick. Pink cake with pink frosting and pink sprinkles.

As part of the birthday privileges comes a "do nothing day", at least you don't have to do your chores, and if you're lucky mom will even do your wash (Nate and Mase).

Somehow in all the celebrating Steve and I missed out on the "do nothing day", but I guess someone has to go to work, do the dishes and laundry, and get the kids to school on time.

Next year for the big 40 we will get our day the way we want it.

Life is good,

we are a year older, hopefully a little wiser too.

Now on to Christmas...

...oh and basketball (it is the never ending season around here).

I should be...

2010-10-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

...cleaning the bathrooms,

...putting the last bit of laundry away,

...straightening the family room,

...taking out the garbage,

but I am not.

I am sitting at the computer wasting time until I pick up the kids from school.

I am tired.

I know lots of people are tired, I am just one more.

Fall is here, the kids are in school, and the weather is GREAT!

I am loving my part-part-time job.

Yes, after 15 years of being a stay-at-home mom I am working outside the home.

I teach a preschool class two mornings a week.

Nice for Marra so she can meet children who are not her older brothers.

Great for me because I get to do what I love, teach.

Other than that life is the same,

house still needs to be cleaned,

dishes need to be washed or put away or both,

grocery shopping,

laundry,

homework...

the list goes on.

I did add one more thing...

I started to teach my two youngest boys piano.

Crazy I know, but trying to find the time to drive them to and from piano, and wondering what their teacher must think of me for not forcing them to practice as much as they should.

It is easier... for now.

I also bought Nate a guitar DVD so he can teach himself to play.

I love a house full of music, even if the count is off and slightly out of tune.

Summer...

2010-08-28T06:58:00.000-07:00

...summer has gone,

and I was a little sad to send my kiddos off to school, (now that is a first). Somehow we all survived the first week.

Nate is a sophomore and ready for drivers ed, girls, basketball, girls, seminary, a little more basketball, girls, and hopefully a little learning in between.

Mase is off to his second year of middle school, and one year closer to being the "big man on campus". His size helps him to blend in with all the existing "big men". I think by the end of the year he will be able to share shoes with his dad. Oh how I hate to buy men's shoes for a 12 year old.

Cam tells me "fourth grade is the best, it has lots of science". When not consumed with all things that can gross a mom out he is excited for soccer, basketball, friends, football, anything to keep him moving, and always plenty of math and science.

Peyton was so eager for second grade getting him to sleep was more challenging than usual. While I was trying to get him to sleep he told me..."I already have my clothes ready. I am going to wear my 'awesome' shirt. Everyone will see my shirt and think that kid is awesome, and I will make friends just like that". (SNAP)...

...I'm sure it worked.

That left Marra the lone child at home...

That is until next week when she and I go back to school. Marra will learn, I will teach. Marra will be with friends and play, I will be teaching some fabulous four-year-old the fine art of getting ready for kindergarten.

It should be another great week at school.

Still kind of miss these guys.

I used to be..

2010-07-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

...good at keeping up with life and the things that go on around me. I used to be good at updates for my family & friends who are so far away. Now that my parents have an up-to-date computer and broadband, no more excuses. I need to pick up my game.

I also used to be young. Yes I blame it all on age.

We have had a busy summer and with school only five short weeks away I wonder where all the time has gone.

With that said here is a glimpse into our summer in between basketball camps and scout camps.

A little slip-n-slide.

A little baseball with dad.
A near miss with a flying bat (Thanks Josh Hamilton).

Hoping to get on TV.
Who knew a flying object would get you on TV sooner that a cute sign from a six year old.

"The Bat", which landed one row behind the boys, before security took it back to the dugout.

A free date night with The Eagles.
I loved the box seats!

Basketball skills champ

and a happy 7th birthday.

Now on to a 15th birthday party and a mini-vacation with some friends. I may have to throw in some school shopping, but I still have a little time. Right?

Better late than never...

2010-07-02T08:18:00.000-07:00

I think I have said that before.

Oh well, I have tried to post this several times and it never sounded just right.

I will just speak from the heart...

Happy Father's Day to my dad. A man who is never short on words, and has never met a stranger. I love his strong popeye arms and his bear hugs.

To my angel father-in-law, who left this earth life far too soon. He is watching over his children and smiling at all of their accomplishments, and sheds a tear in their trials. He left a 5-year-old boy with a few vivid memories and a lasting impression of hard work, integrity, honesty, and a strong testimony of faith.

Steve, the man of my life & the man who still keeps me laughing and enjoying the journey together as parents. The dad who is always willing to "play ball" even when the doctors have told him no more (pretty sure his knees will not last through grandchildren).

Most of all I love him because...

...he gave me all of these.

Love you all and I am so thankful for the many parts you play in my life

Mother's Day has come and gone...

2010-05-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

...and I for one am glad.

I am a mother of five great kids and a wife to a fabulous husband, but I must confess Mother's Day is not the best day for me.

Don't get me wrong, my kids and Steve do many great things to feel loved all day long. I got breakfast in bed, yummy dinner, a new purse, and topped the day off with cheesecake. Who wouldn't feel loved?

No, I do not like Mother's Day for one reason...

Mothers Guilt.

Having a whole day to celebrate a magical person I could never become is hard. Going to church and listening to talks about all the "perfect" moms is difficult, and hearing the song "Love at Home" drives me crazy (I have been known to walk out of the meeting when that song starts).

I am not a "perfect" mom and by the standards set on Mother's Day I never will be.

After years of crying on Mother's Day I decided this year would be different. I decided to focus on my family and that made all the difference.

I enjoyed the microwaved pancakes Cameron and Peyton made for me with out any help from dad. I cried as the kids sang a song at church just for the mom's (no it was not "love at home", I may not have made it through that one), I smelled the flower Marra brought me after church, I smiled as I read the note from Nate, I hugged and kissed all my kids, I acted surprised when I opened my present (Marra told me all about the purse the night before), I even cried when the kids gave me my card which sang "You are so Beautiful to Me".

I did alright.

I did get grumpy at times, but it beat staying in my room all day.

It is my first year, next year will be even better.

I am blessed to be a wife and mother, a role I am constantly trying to improve upon. I am not "perfect", but my family doesn't seem to care.

Now on to Father's Day. It IS my favorite day of the year.

March..

2010-04-04T17:07:00.000-07:00

A month can change many things…

winter to spring…

longer days…

rain, with a chance of tornado…

new job…

new time zone…

city to the country…

“fresh air” (pretty sure it’s a cow, and not too fresh)…

cement slab to 18 acres of grass…

dry to humid…

new schools…

old friends…

tears for friends left behind…

HOME.

Home to fields and woods to get lost in.

Home to the roots we planted many years ago.

Home to grow.

Home to TEXAS.

…goodnight ya’all.

To ride or not to ride...

2010-02-08T19:28:00.000-08:00

I love a good amusement park. I love fast rides and slow rides, and rides that take me high above the crowd, and rides that keep me close to the ground. Given a choice however, I will pick a bumpy, heart pounding rollercoaster every time.

My favorite is the old wooden rollercoaster. While waiting in line you wonder how it is still standing and will it hold up through your ride. I enjoy the modern rollercoasters as well, the ones that take me on fast, tight turns with long drops and the endless loops. I love the twinge in my stomach while we hang over the edge waiting for the drop, my body slamming from side to side with each turn and finally floating in every loop. To me the roller coaster is the ultimate thrill ride.

I have also been known on occasion to enjoy the Ferris wheel. The smooth constant turn of the wheel giving all its riders a chance to catch their breath, talk, get away from the crowds, and enjoy some nice views.

When I was twelve years old my soccer team won a tournament. Each player was given a ticket to the grand opening of the new rollercoaster at Lagoon. My team was excited because we would be the first to ride the “Colossus”. On the day of the opening our coach promised $10 to the player who rode the “Colossus” the most times in a row. I was up for the challenge, and for awhile many of the girls kept up. Around the 10^th and 11^th ride, one by one each girl dropped out of the competition. Ride after ride I was ready to go again. Finally on the 24^th turn I sat alone on the ride, I won. With $10 and a headache I met up with my team at the Ferris wheel.

You see life right now is a bit like an old, bumpy rollercoaster; the climb to the top is slow, the thrill of the drop is small, bumping from side to side is painful, and the ride can give me a headache. I catch myself longing for the smooth, constant turn of the Ferris wheel, for its even course, and I wonder if I’m on the right ride.

Then suddenly a small drop or a new loop lets me float above the crowd and I’m reminded that I’m pretty sure I’d miss the ride.

The Ferris wheel will have to wait.

Sometimes I need a little reminder...

2010-01-29T18:19:00.000-08:00

"The only way to get through life is to laugh your way through it. You either have to laugh or cry. I prefer to laugh. Crying gives me a headache."

-Marjorie Pay Hinckley

Two Blondes, a Football Player, and Princess...

2009-12-06T07:58:00.000-08:00

...all had a birthday.

Once again life keeps moving and somehow I am suppose to keep up with it. I do, just a little late at times.

A big belated happy birthday to the two blonde, blue eyed kids in our family.

Both are still willing to hug me in public.

Both are picky eaters. One only eats fruit and cheese, and the other one won't touch fruit or cheese unless forced upon.

Both make me smile.

Happy Birthday Masers and Marra!!!!

Mason our mad scientist turned twelve in November. As tradition would have it he received a laundry basket for his birthday and now does his own laundry. It was a great birthday for mom.

Mase has many friends, but wherever we have lived he always has a best friend and Vegas is no different. Kahlil and Mase love all things sports and being on the winning team. This year they lead their flag football team to victory, and played side by side on their tackle football team. "Go Cowboy"!

Now that football is over they have joined the schools all boy hip-hop club. Should be fun to watch.

Marra is our three year old princess. The only girl after four boys. In a word she is spoiled, and we wouldn't have it any other way. She loves to play "mommy", "princess", and whenever we can find it...

...dirt. Daily she is a princess with a little dirt under her painted finger nails. She is keeping it real.

Happy Belated Birthday...

2009-10-23T11:46:00.000-07:00

I tried to post yesterday, but it would not work so we are a day late.

He still had a great day minus sitting in the urgent care with Nate for 2 hours. All is well and every one is whole, minus a toe nail.

Here a few of the highlights, breakfast in bed, lunch date with his two best gals, french bread pizza for dinner, books, and homemade cheesecake topped with fresh raspberries, bananas, and homemade caramel sauce.

So here is a late Happy Birthday to my scrabble playin, sports lovin, trivial pursuitin, book readin, father of five, and fabulous hubby.

38 reasons to love or hate me... You decide.

2009-09-30T10:54:00.000-07:00

... normally I do not like to talk a lot about myself, lets face it there are 7 of us here and most are more interesting than I. However, in light of tradition and because it was my 38th birthday I shall write about myself.

Consider yourself warned.

1. I am a mother to five fabulous kiddos.

2. I am VERY conservative.

3. I called the school district to find out about Obama's speech. Pretty sure they changed it after I called.

4. I graduated from the University of Utah and cheer for them when they do not play BYU.

5. I have been happily married for 15 years and still pinch myself wondering how it happened so well.

6. I have lived in four states: Utah, Texas, California, and Nevada.

7. I lived in Utah for 26 years before living anywhere else.

8. I love to sing and have sung in choirs, ensembles, and even solo. My husband thinks I should do it more often.

9. I once swore I would never marry a sports fan. Now not only do I have a sports fan husband, but I also have 4 sons who have followed in his footsteps.

10. I worry too much about my weight.

11. I am halfway to my weight loss goal.

12. I believe in choices, but I also believe in consequences. Don't complain to me about a consequence when you made the choice.

13. Sometimes life just sucks. That is when you "suck it up" and keep moving forward.

14. I love most country music. Steve is not so much a fan but my kids know most of the lyrics.

15. I love to read. I am currently reading 4 books.

16. I should stick to one book and finish it.

17. My favorite novel is "The Good Earth".

18. School is only part of Education. I will do the rest at home (i.e. correct what was wrong).

19. I don't care what Hollywood thinks. They should just be quiet and sing. I'll listen to your politics when you read my book and see my movie.

20. I don't want a "public option" for health care. I will pay for mine and you can pay for yours.

21. I love my SUV.

22. My Suburban can drive over any "Smart car". So don't tell me what I should drive.

23. I miss my Grandma O.

24. I have had stitches 9 times.

25. The stitches I remember the most were in 5th grade when I was in PE and a boy taller than me ran into me. His buck teeth hit my head. I just remember lots of blood (mine not his).

26. I'm not really a shopper, unless I'm at a bookstore.

27. I love high heels.

28. My hair is all grey. You would never know because of a wonderful person I call Megan who makes the grey go away. Love her!

29. I never thought I wanted a daughter, but I am so glad to have one.

30. I love reading with my kids. We are reading "The Mouse and the Motorcycle" (with Peyton and Marra) and Cam and I are reading Harry Potter.

31. 2 of my boys are taller than me. Not really much of an accomplishment I know, but they love it.

32. I love to write. I have hundreds of stories and thoughts written down, just waiting for me to do something with them.

33. I love to try new recipes. Can't say my family loves them all, but some become keepers.

34. I love to watch the Food Network and make up my own dishes. My family usually likes these.

35. Give me a new recipe book and I will hide away for hours planning and dreaming. My favorites are church and family recipe books.

36. I love to read the Book of Mormon and conference talks with my husband. He sees things differently than I do and it is nice to compare the two perspectives.

37. I am a Christian.

38. I have a testimony of my Savior Jesus Christ and the Peace he brings to the world around me.

... So right, wrong, or indifferent that is part of who I am. Proud to be 38 because life just gets better and better.

Happy Birthday...

2009-09-04T08:42:00.000-07:00

Curious about all the world around him.

Awesome (I really love this kid).

Masters all he tries. Math, reading, and always science.

Energetic. It is sometimes hard to keep up with him.

Running all day and night.

Outrageous. Keeps me on my toes.

Non-stop. He crashes at night and doesn't move a muscle until morning.

From the moment he was born I knew that our life would never be the same again. He has brought joy and energy to our house and it doesn't show any signs of stopping. I love the way he looks at the world and all the adventures he brings with it.

He wears me out, but it's always better then bored. I can hardly wait to see what the next eight years bring.

Have a great day Cam!!!!

No one is listening...

2009-09-03T12:08:00.000-07:00

...apparently I am not going along so he is trying to teach me through my children.

...Stay out of my housing.

...Stay out of my cars.

...Stay out of my health care.

...Stay out of my children's' education.

I will teach them to be self reliant. You know save to buy their own house, their own car, and their own health insurance.

I will make sure they get a good education. Teach them to think for themselves, and research what is being taught. Why do you think I took the youngest out of public school?

The big 14

2009-07-20T09:51:00.001-07:00

14 fabulous facts about N8...

Nate is the oldest in the family.

His nick-name use to be "Calvin" because this hair stood straight up, no amount of hairspray could keep it down.

He has a sweet shot.

He is going to be in high school this year. I know I forgot I was that old too.

Nate has lived in 4 states. I think he is hoping we finally pick one to stay.

He love the "Bourne" movies. (Just like mom)

Nate is a kind and loyal friend, even if I think they don't deserve it.

He remembers all sorts of facts about people and places. (Just like dad)

Nate is a good and quiet leader.

He has a secret crush on some girl, and won't tell me who. The nerve of some children.

Loves to hug me, especially when he is sweaty.

His perfect day would be spending the day with his dad playing basketball and maybe a little golf.

Nate loves BYU!

He will officially move up to the teachers quorum on Sunday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NATE!

It's Peyters day...

2009-07-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

Our sunday enjoyment...

2009-07-12T19:17:00.000-07:00

She also sings "Brass Monkey" and "Big Girls Don't Cry", she keeps us laughing.

Month in review part one...

2009-07-07T12:42:00.000-07:00

... here is a little glimpse into our week in Provo or what I like to call, "How i spent my summer vacation.

...track break, school ends (at least for Nate), road trip, Provo Utah, hotel, movie, BYU basketball camp, sharing a dorm room (Nate and Mase), visit California friends, Marra locking iphone with her own special code (fun), erasing phone, contacts and all to fix the phone (funner), Family Home Evening at training table, cheese fries, visiting Texas friends, park, yummy hamburgers, cupcakes, rain, museum, holding a real snake (Cam in heaven), swimming, awards ceremony, check out of dorm room, visiting Vegas friends, dinner, more basketball, BYU bookstore, drive home... SLEEP!

Now back to school, oh how I love year-round school.

Cam touching the snake

Peyton feeding the turtle

Goods at the bookstore

Cam holding the snake, I stayed as far away as possible.

The crew + Molly and Garrett

Yum!

Nate and Mase ready for a great week away from Mom and the little brothers and sister who missed them sooooo much.

We are off...

2009-06-06T14:06:00.000-07:00

...Off to a week of BYU basketball camp, and three little ones in a hotel room with just me.

Why?

We get to cram all of summer vacation into one week.

Why?

We have a lovely thing called year-round school.

Why?

I think it is to torture me.

I hope I can survive this long(?) summer ahead.

I will report when it is all over.

Let the hunt begin...

2009-04-28T14:59:00.000-07:00

…I figure if I write it down it will really happen.

Almost four years ago we moved from the great state of Texas and left homeownership behind. We journeyed to the land of opportunity aka California, for a good job, but not so good house prices. Thus the renting began.

Renting does have its perks: no hassle with lawn care, no home maintenance, and no selling it when you move.
On the other hand, renting has a few drawbacks: no pride in ownership, can’t paint the walls any color you want (white can get real old real fast), if you don’t like something the HAVE to live with it, and then there is always the landlord. Some are good, but others should be a four-letter word. It is also a killer on your taxes.

Oh I digress…

In honor of our house hunt here is my wish list…

At least 3700 square feet
5 plus bedrooms
3 plus bathrooms (I do not share a bathroom with the boys why should Marra suffer?)
A loft for the children (in some areas this room may be called a game room, I remember them as basements)
Half and acre or more (I am dreaming here)
Pool (still dreaming)
Basketball court (almost waking)
Dark cabinets (White does not work with my family, all the little fingers)
Double oven
Granite counters
Wood floors

As long as it is wish list self-cleaning walls and toilets

…Alright, just find me a self-cleaning house.

I'm still here...

2009-04-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

I know you are all wondering where I have been. I would love to say I have been on an extended vacation celebrating 15 years with a fabulous man, but truth be told I have just been living my life as a wife and mother of five fun and crazy kids.

I have been living life to the fullest with basketball, soccer, church, more basketball, more church, buying a house, not buying a house, house hunting again, hoping to find the right house, paying taxes, a quick trip to Zions (my first time, sad I know), and always dealing with a two year old princess.

I am just tired.

My life is just that, life. Ups and downs and plenty of unknowns. I am trying to enjoy the ride, I only wish I got to set the course and speed. For now I am content to hold on.

15 and counting...

2009-03-19T08:23:00.000-07:00

The past 15 years have brought…

5 apartments,

3 houses,

7 cars,

3 college degrees (2 bachelors, 1 MBA),

4 States,

5 Children,

plenty of sleepless nights,

compromise,

and always laughter.

Is it all that I had hoped for? Of course!

So how do you celebrate 15 years?

You go to Hawaii!

That is you spend the evening with your children as they take you on a tour of their school for “Multi-cultural” night. The trip is to Hawaii, Fiji, and Tahiti, it should be fun with a little less sand, sun, and palm trees.

The real Hawaii will have to wait, (at least for a little while).

Thanks for the last 15, here’s to 15+ more. Love you!

A week of improvements...

2009-03-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

Funny how a week can improve.

I turned off the news.

If you can't say something nice...

2009-02-27T08:08:00.000-08:00

...then sit next to me.

Alright I am really trying to think of something nice to say about what is going on in the world around me, so I will try to keep the government out of it. Aside from the economy, my week has been crazy and I am thankful.

I am thankful for a husband who works hard to support our family. (I will not mention all the years we have sacrificed to get to where we are).
I am thankful for a roof over our heads that we pay for, not the taxpayers.
I am thankful that I have health insurance that we pay for, not the government.
I am thankful for food in my kitchen that we paid for, not the government.
I am thankful for the $$ in my bank account that my sweet husband works for, and is not just handed to us by our government.
I am thankful for a testimony in my savior Jesus Christ, and not in a man who ran for president.
I am thankful for freedom of speech, even if no one wants to hear it. (I say that for all sides)
I am thankful for 4 boys who will one day support their own families because of the values that are taught in our home, not what is taught in school.
I am thankful for our little princess and pray that she will find a husband who is just like her dad, not one who fills his days with video games. (that one may be hard to find)
I am thankful for the ability to pay my taxes, I am still waiting for a thank you note from those who don't. (I won't hold my breath).
I am thankful for the ability to help myself and my family to strive to always be better, not to settle.

It's been a good week minus the flu, ER visits, and a broken tooth.

God Bless the USA! (regardless of who is in charge).

I may have a drinking problem...

2009-02-10T07:26:00.000-08:00

...you know you have a drinking problem when you hear your two year old say to her babies...

"Dwink your Diet Coke".

Now I am off to Sonic for a Diet Coke with crushed ice. I'll stop drinking tomorrow.

Maybe...

just curious...

2009-01-29T11:16:00.000-08:00

Liz was tagged again and being nice she did not tag anyone back, but I wanted to see the result of the tag myself. So here it is this is the 6th folder and 6th picture on my computer...
I love it!

This is our baby Marra at 34 weeks in 3D. She was born about three weeks later. When she was born she looked almost the same, minus the squished look. I am thrilled to still have it.

Observations by Cameron...

2009-01-21T10:12:00.000-08:00

... with all of the political stuff in the air he says:
"Mom, Bill Clinton was one of the worst presidents, and Ronald Reagan was the best".

Not sure what's being said at school, but it sounds like we're getting our money's worth :)

You're It...

2009-01-16T23:05:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by my beloved sister-in-law Liz. Because I love her so much I will actually complete and pass on this tag before the day ends (thank goodness I live on the west coast).

7 things about yours truly...

#1 I struggle with the whole “political correctness” thing. I love to laugh and in doing so I will make fun of myself, and at times others. I also have some strong opinions about things with which my more liberal-minded friends do not agree. It is when I am around such people that Steve wishes he had a mute button for me. I have gotten better at business meetings I simply avoid topics that may offend. However, if they ask me about an issue all bets are off. Sorry Honey.

#2 I can read anywhere anytime. The world can be falling apart around me and I can still keep reading. In fact I prefer noise. Silence is when I have to look up from my book. If it is quiet in the house you know something is going on that needs your immediate attention.

#3 I can actually sing. I’ve sung solos, duets, quartets, and in choirs, for prophets, veterans, friends, weddings, and of course church. I sing in the shower, kitchen, and always in the car. My favorites to sing along with are country songs, but Queen is a good alternative.

#4 I don’t like to sweep or mop. The floors get cleaned, but not very happily. I have invested a small fortune on products that promise an easier cleaning, but they are not my friends. The trick is getting the kids to enjoy it.

#5 I am VERY competitive. I don’t deal with losing very well. In my teens, my church team always seemed to lose to the same team (Canyon Rim 4th). One game I snapped and strategically broke the nails (both hands) of their best player. I was hit with a technical foul and had to have an interview with the stake president to continue in the league. Was it worth it? Of course it was – we won.

#6 Sometimes I have a hard time putting myself first. For years my mom has sent me money for my birthday and every year I spend it on somebody else. We haven’t had many nights without the kids, and when we do it usually seems to involve house hunting or childbirth. When we do get away, like a few months ago when Steve took me to a kid-free week in South Carolina I find that it can be nice to be a little selfish sometimes.

#7 At one time I was organized. With each child I let more and more slide. I can get all my kids to church on time, to school on time, I can have dinner on time, and I can even get all of them to their games on time. But open my cupboards, pantry, desk, and closets and be prepared for a mess.

Now it’s your turn... I tag Karie, Ari, and Brenda.

Bring on 2009...

2009-01-08T09:31:00.000-08:00

...Funny how 2008 can come to an end and I am among the few who can honestly say, “I have achieved every goal I set". I can say that because I decided to simply survive.

I survived a year of single parenting (I pray I never have to do that again), driving kids to school, endless trips to and from Vegas, movers, moving, landlords, new job (Steve), doctors, surgery (Peyton), Church callings, birthday (3 more till fabulous 40), an election, Thanksgiving, and of course Christmas. Something’s I handled better than others, but I survived.
I learned that I am a better person if I have a plan. I need a map with directions and an end goal in mind. For 2009 I want to do more than just survive, I want to thrive.
How do I plan on doing this? After all I did take an entire year off. For me it is with one simple word…

Grace:
Noun; beauty or charm of form, composition, movement, or expression; an attractive quality, feature, manner; a sense of what is right and proper; decency thoughtfulness toward others; goodwill; favor.

I am choosing a word for the year, and all my goals are set in line with it.
* I will be more Gracious when talking to others. (I hope my family will benefit most from this).
* I will be Gaceful in body and spirit by:
Showing control in temper, diet, and exercise.
Developing skills in writing, housekeeping, and cooking.
Balancing church, school, family, and friends.
* I will find Grace with my Heavenly Father.

Grace will be with me day to day in the hope that at this time next year when I choose a new word I can one again say that I have accomplished all I set out to do. With Grace it is possible.

Let it snow?

2008-12-17T20:16:00.000-08:00

We were shocked and excited to see snow again. We have only seen traces of snow since moving away from Utah, and the younger kids have never really been in snow. As of 8:00 tonight we have 6 inches of snow outside (they are predicting 10 inches by morning). We are not prepared. The boys have socks on their hands, and two and three sweat shirts just to stay warm. Marra LOVES the snow. It was hard to convince her that she did need to wear gloves to eat the snow. It has been a fun, cold, wet day. We are waiting to hear if school has been cancelled.

div>

Faith family and friends...

2008-11-20T14:13:00.000-08:00

I have discovered there are three things that I need in my life...Faith, Family, and Friends. It is because of these three things that one day I will be the person I am trying to be.

First, Family. I include all in this group, brothers, sisters, children, spouse, parents, and on and on. All have helped me to be who I am and incourage me to be who I want to be. They have been a big help this last week while Steve and I had a week together in South Carolina. My parents came and stayed with our kids last week, and even stayed an extra day when my plans suddenly changed. I knew that my babies were being taken care of. This gave Steve and I a much-needed break to enjoy a few days without having to talk over our kids. It was great.

Steve and I enjoyed a few days on the coast of South Carolina. While Steve was at his conference all day I was pampered at the spa, and shopping sprees (I decided I really don’t like shopping). I also had a little time to myself to think and read. Steve and I enjoyed the beach, room service, maid service, yummy sweet potato fries, and of course the “turn down service" (I love the treat on the pillow). Having him all to myself made coming home that much harder to let him go to work. I want to call, text, and email him all day, but I guess he has to do other things. I do love being with my kids, but something is always missing until dad comes home.

Steve is my rock, He is the one to keep me balanced, and bring me back when I let my emotions get carried away (even if I don't like it). He keeps things in perspective while we are on our path, even when there are bumps along the way. One of our bumps happened while we were away. A dear friend (Steve) passed last Friday leaving behind a wife (Amy) and four young children. All I wanted to do is hold my kids and Steve close, but I was on a flight to Dallas to be with my friend and attend the funeral.

That is what brings me to Friends. My friend Amy is strong and I know that she and her children will be all right. While they will miss their dad and husband, they know that there is a plan, and that Heavenly Father is in charge. Amy has such poise. She spent much of her time during the viewing giving comfort to those who came to comfort her. I laughed and cried remembering the times we spent together with our families. While in Dallas (36 hours) I spent time with friends I have not seen in a very long time. Enjoying dinner and late night snacking while we laughed and cried together. I learned of births, marriages, missions, callings, children, teens, and divorces. Even when hearing sad new I was in the safety net of my friends.

Finally Faith. It is through my faith in Jesus Christ that I know life will be all right even with these bumps. He is my Savior, my Comforter; he brings peace into my crazy life (yes, I know I create much of the crazy). It is through this eternal perspective that I know that Amy and Steve will one day be together again. I know that Heavenly Father welcomed Steve home and will help him continue on his journey, until it is time for Amy to be by his side.

While this last week was bittersweet, it had helped me see the things I need to do to get where I want to go. It has taught me to know what I need to do to be a better mom, wife, sister, aunt, daughter, friend, and of course a child of God. It is with my Faith, Family, and friends that I will get there.

Halloween revisited...

2008-11-18T15:00:00.000-08:00

When I am not so tired I will tell all about the trip with my fabulous husband to South Carolina, and the bittersweet diversion to Dallas. Having one on one time with Steve was something I have needed for a long time. As for Dallas, I forgot how much I have missed my friends in Texas.

So on to Halloween. Steve loves to dress up. This year is no different than any other. He is always the same!! This year it scared Marra. I am the same every year as well, I am a witch. No costume needed.

Marra is the beloved Tinker Bell. Yes she picked it herself. She LOVES Tinker bell, and would not dream of anything else. We all know here that the princess is in charge. Wings and all.

Mason is picking his own costumes these days. He is the Devil. He even bought the mask on his own (mask is down a few pictures). He loves to Be anything that involves coloring his hair. This is the first time to go red. It took a week to get it all out. Needless to say he looked great in his shirt and tie.

Cameron is Superman this year. He said he wanted to be Superman, I said great we have a cape in the "box". No mom I want you to buy the costume, no homemade stuff. Picky, picky, it was nice not having to sew anything. I am still sewing on all the scout badges. Maybe when Peyton gets his eagle they will all be on.

Peyton on the other hand wanted me to make his costume. He decided to be Peter Pan. After no luck on a pattern and a sliced finger, (thank you Walmart stools), the family talked him into also buying a costume. So this year I managed to not have to sew anything. Of course I am looking forward to sewing all the princess dresses, they look like more fun than the bloody football player or the ghost we seem to always be doing.

Finally Nate, he is too old to enjoy running through the neighborhood filling his bag with candy. He got to pass out the candy this year. He dressed of for the occasion. He is a gangster scout. I did draw on a mustache and beard. So a belated Happy Halloween to all.

It is time to move on...

2008-11-08T16:11:00.000-08:00

I am proud of the fight my friends fought in California. Here are a few facts from one of them. I am so thankful for all of the freedoms I enjoy, freedom of speech is just one. So to all of you "No to Prop 8", it is time to peacefully move on. I know I have.

Mormons make up less than 2% of the population of California . There are approximately 800,000 LDS out of a total population of approximately 34 million.

Mormon voters were less than 5% of the yes vote. If one estimates that 250,000 LDS are registered voters (the rest being children), then LDS voters made up 4.6% of the Yes vote and 2.4% of the total Proposition 8 vote.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) donated no money to the Yes on 8 campaign. Individual members of the Church were encouraged to support the Yes on 8 efforts and, exercising their constitutional right to free speech, donated whatever they felt like donating.

The No on 8 campaign raised more money than the Yes on 8 campaign. Unofficial estimates put No on 8 at $38 million and Yes on 8 at $32 million, making it the most expensive non-presidential election in the country.

Advertising messages for the Yes on 8 campaign are based on case law and real-life situations. The No on 8 supporters have insisted that the Yes on 8 messaging is based on lies. Every Yes on 8 claim is supported.

The majority of our friends and neighbors voted Yes on 8. Los Angeles County voted in favor of Yes on 8. Ventura County voted in favor of Yes on 8.

African Americans overwhelmingly supported Yes on 8. Exit polls show that 70% of Black voters chose Yes on 8. This was interesting because the majority of these voters voted for President-elect Obama. No on 8 supporters had assumed that Obama voters would vote No on 8.

The majority of Latino voters voted Yes on 8. Exit polls show that the majority of Latinos supported Yes on 8 and cited religious beliefs (assumed to be primarily Catholic).

The Yes on 8 coalition was a broad spectrum of religious organizations. Catholics, Evangelicals, Protestants, Orthodox Jews, Muslims – all supported Yes on 8. It is estimated that there are 10 million Catholics and 10 million Protestants in California . Mormons were a tiny fraction of the population represented by Yes on 8 coalition members.

Not all Mormons voted in favor of Proposition 8. Our faith accords that each person be allowed to choose for him or her self. Church leaders have asked members to treat other members with "civility, respect and love," despite their differing views.

The Church did not violate the principal of separation of church and state. This principle is derived from the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which reads, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof . . ." The phrase "separation of church and state", which does not appear in the Constitution itself, is generally traced to an 1802 letter by Thomas Jefferson, although it has since been quoted in several opinions handed down by the United States Supreme Court in recent years. The LDS Church is under no obligation to refrain from participating in the political process, to the extent permitted by law. U.S. election law is very clear that churches may not endorse candidates, but may support issues. The Church has always been very careful on this matter and occasionally (not often) chooses to support causes that it feels to be of a moral nature.

Supporters of Proposition 8 did exactly what the Constitution provides for all citizens: they exercised their First Amendment rights to speak out on an issue that concerned them, make contributions to a cause that they support, and then vote in the regular electoral process. For the most part, this seems to have been done in an open, fair, and civil way. Opponents of 8 have accused supporters of being bigots, liars, and worse. The fact is, we simply did what Americans do – we spoke up, we campaigned, and we voted.

Observations by Peyton...

2008-11-05T15:59:00.000-08:00

While doing his homework (writing the letter "P"). Peyton proclaims... "Man, all this homework makes me want to poop". Off he went to the bathroom.

Sea World, Friends, Beach and Prop 8...

2008-11-04T10:25:00.000-08:00

... So I left Nate and Steve at home and took the four other children to enjoy a few days in California. We "had" to go to see Peyton's eye doctor, but that was only one day of the five. I have to thank our friends, who we lovingly refer to as the Quarterfields for opening there home to three very loud boys, a princess, and a tired mom. We loved every minute. The Library, soft beds, video games, and the great food, even the crunchy enchiladas! We enjoyed the beach and Sea world, and we were able to see a few of our friends we have missed.

Being in Encinitas I was able to witness my friends standing up for what they believe. I cheered as I drove by the sign waving of the "Yes to Prop 8" signs. What a sight to see the youth wearing yes to Prop 8 t-shirts, and standing united against the CTA (or PTA).

Watching my friends stand up to those who disagree with them, and it being the election it is my turn to stand up for what I believe. I do not want to live in fear of what someone may think of me and the values I am teaching my children.

I have the right to raise my children the way Steve and I decide is right for our family. The school system and the government do not get to tell me the values I have to teach my children.

So here is what values we are trying to teach our children...

-Marriage is between one man and one women.

-Your are responsible for the choices you make and the consequences that follow.

-Treat others with respect.

-If you do not agree, you have the right to speak against it.

-You get to go to church, because that is what our family does.

-You are a Child of God.

I am sure other values will follow, for we are still in the raising part of our family. Our goal is to raise honest, respectful, self reliant adults who are ready for the world they will have to live in.

Oh how I love my man...

2008-10-29T18:13:00.000-07:00

... today is one of those days when I have had enough. It took all the energy I had to just get dinner on the table (We had spaghetti). I just wanted to cry knowing I still had to drive my boys to scouts and young men's.

In comes Steve early from work (never happens), gets the boys off to scouts, and even takes Peyton to enjoy the evening with the young men. Cameron is watching a movie with Marra, and I am off to put my feet up before I tackle the kitchen and the four dozen sugar cookies I need for tomorrow.

Yes, Steve will be helping with the baking!

September happenings...

2008-10-02T10:19:00.001-07:00

We started soccer, and Peyton is enjoying running. I am not sure he really likes getting in the middle of the group, but he at least runs with the group.

Cameron on the other hand loves being in the middle of it all. It is a challenge to keep him on his feet. He loves to go after the best players and give them a real challenge. I think next year we will do football, at least it is legal to have contact.

We also had "twin" day at school. Can you tell them apart? I know it is a bit of a stretch, but these are Peyton's best friends, and they all wanted to be twins. So three Star Wars shirts later we have three Twins?

Here is how the morning started with three boys who really looked alike. Shirts where changed at the bus stop.

As for the rest of us, we are just busy. Nate is starting flag football at school and is working hard at school so he can get a phone (we told him he had to get all A's). He has a class called peer advocate where he helps a boy at school who is autistic. He gets to help him during class. Nate keeps and eye on him and encourages him take notes and not cause too much trouble in class. Nate is really enjoying this new challenge.

I am keeping myself above water or at least floating. I am now the 2nd counselor in the Relief Society (women's group in church). I am over education which is nice because it is mostly only on Sunday. However, we are a brand new ward (congregation), and I have only been here a couple months and I do not know anyone. The president has only been here a year, and spent most of it in the nursery so we are all trying to get to know the sisters (ladies in our congregation). That being said Tuesdays are set aside for visits (20 sisters down, 130 to go). Wish me luck. I am also helping out in Cameron's class again this year. I have a lady who watches Marra for me on the days I go to the school. Once again I am going to be searching for a magic fairy to take care of the house that always seems to be on the bottom of my list.

Steve is work work work it is nice to see him on the weekends even if he still has to go to the office for a "couple" of hours. At church he is working with the 11 year old scouts Mason can hardly wait until he turns 11 (one month to go). He is looking forward to a break this weekend when he and Nate are flying to Salt Lake City for the priesthood session, and visits with what little family we have left there.

We are also waiting for it to cool off. No luck yet. Today it is to reach 101. Happy sweating.

Observations by Peyton

2008-09-09T22:28:00.001-07:00

This past Sunday at church during sharing time (when all of the kids are together for singing & activities) the leader asked if any of the children wanted to share an experience with getting an answer to prayer. Of course Peyton raised his hand to volunteer and told this story.

Peyton: um, before we moved away from California Encinitas, when we lived in our blue house, I lost my Buzz Lightyear phone, and I asked Heavenly Father to help me find it.

Teacher: And did Heavenly Father help you find it?

Peyton (after a long pause): um, no. We still can't find it.

Teacher: But did it make you feel good knowing that Heavenly Father was helping you?

Peyton (after another long pause): um, yes?

A Week In the Life...

2008-09-07T21:06:00.000-07:00

Cameron had his seventh birthday this week. I asked him what kind of cake he wanted and he said I just want a cookie. He was so excited to get a cookie bigger than his head. For breakfast he wanted bacon and eggs and for dinner waffles. He is so easy going when it comes to his birthday.

For labor day we met grandma and papa and great grandma at Mt. Charleston for lunch and a hike. Grandma and papa left before the hike. It was nice to get out of the heat (105), and cool off for the day. It was 68 degrees, Peyton said it was cold.

Nathan has been busy with scouts this summer. Two scout camps and lots of mid-week activities. He is now at Star rank, looking forward to his eagle.

Mason received his Arrow of Light. He is ready for his birthday to move to eleven year old scouts.

Marra and I are trying to get use to the idea of a little peace in the mornings. So far we have canned peaches and made lots of jam. Peyton is making friends, and has a couple of girls in class who think he is "cute". I am not ready for these kindergarten crushes.

I started to volunteer in the school again and I am pleased with the teachers. I was a little worried about Cam's teacher (he has a little trouble sitting still), but after talking to her she says she LOVES him. She is having fun with him in the class. I sure hope this continues.

Nate is surviving a new middle school and has made some new friends along the way. Mason is enjoying having the some LDS kids in school with him. He is meeting lots of new kids in school who have moved in from all of the country.

Finally, we spent Saturday watching soccer. Peyton and Cam had their first games. Peyton managed to kick the ball a couple of times, and even stayed in with the group surrounding the ball. Cam had a great time running and running. He scored a goal and LOVES soccer, even in the heat.

Silence is Golden...

2008-08-27T12:16:00.000-07:00

The boys are off to school and Marra and I have a couple of hours of quiet. Marra loves her babies and is enjoying playing mommy with out any of the brothers "helping". I think I can get use to this.

Cameron is all ready for 2nd grade. He is even more excited to take the bus everyday. I am more than happy to let him. I got a little tired of driving everyday. Marra and Peyton are thrilled to not be in the car. Cam is also happy about the fact that he can buy baseball cards in the cafeteria. Yes, the school has a vending machine for our sport lovers.

Nate allowed me to take his picture as long as I did it where no one could see. This was taken in the corner of the yard. (I did however walk him to the bus stop I am sure he will never live that one down). He is in the 8th grade and is loving the locker thing. California did not have lockers so he had to carry his backpack and all it's contents around during school.

The boys are ready to bug someone else for a change. I sure hope the teachers are ready.

Mason is in the 5th grade at a new school. He has already made a couple of new friends. He is a great big brother and makes sure that Cameron gets off on the right stop. He even knows the garage code so I do not have to be home to let them in. I doubt he will ever have to use it, but he is sure hoping.

The happiest of all has to be our Peyters. He walk right into class and started to work. "See ya mom" is all I got. I held it together until the car and cried all the way home. I am thrilled to know that his body and mind are working well enough for "regular" kindergarten. It has been an up hill battle that he has had to climb by himself with the rest of us cheering him on, and he has done it all with a smile. What a kid!

First Hair Cut

2008-08-25T09:34:00.000-07:00

She was such a big girl. No crying, and I only had to hold her head still a couple of times. I think she really liked the pampering. The sucker at the end was great too. She is such a big girl now.

I Love School!

2008-08-07T18:07:00.000-07:00

I know there are many mothers out there who dread the end of summer. I am not among them. I love the first day of school, and I think my kids do too (maybe not Nate, but the rest do). I love a routine. I love knowing what I am doing every minute of the day. These past seven months have been a little crazy and I am ready for things to settle a little.

This year I had the privilege of buying school supplies for four of my five children. Walmart loves when I come to shop, I always seem to miss the sales when it comes to school supplies. Oh well, I also got to buy new shoes for the boys, alright I bought a pair for Marra, and myself. A girl can never have to many shoes. In the next couple of weeks I will spend a small fortune on clothes for these boys who refuse to stop growing. Grandma is coming to visit to shop with us so I am sure Marra will end up with a couple of new outfits. How we love grandma!!!

So Here are some pictures of our crew enjoying the unscheduled days of summer.

Shingles anyone????

2008-07-31T17:46:00.000-07:00

I guess the stress of moving has gotten to a member of the family. Can you guess? No, it is not me, and Steve is to busy to get it.... It's Cameron.

I noticed a rash and a limp, and he complained his leg hurt. I searched the Internet for a doctor got the appointment, and came home with a prescription and a tired boy. The doctor said that it is very rare that a child gets shingles, even more rare for one to get it who has had the chicken pox shot. Leave it to Cameron to get something hard to find.

Cameron is never one to sit still, but his leg hurts just enough that he wants to watch a movie. It should be an interesting couple of weeks.

dinner is served

2008-07-24T19:02:00.000-07:00

In effort to keep my kids healthy and hopefully far away from fast food, this is what I served for dinner. Nate was the only one who thought it was the "best ever". Peyton cried (then again he cries at whatever is not a cheese sandwich). Cam ate the strawberries and a little of the fettuccini. Mase ate only a little pasta and fruit. Marra only ate strawberries (she usually eats only fruit). I am sure Steve made a cheese sandwich sometime after dinner. Sometimes it really gets to me when I cook and noone eats. What is a mom to do? Well I lie. Tonight I made chicken curry wraps and did not tell them what was in it. Everyone loved it and Steve has no Idea until he reads this that he ate something with curry.

Why we blog

2008-07-23T07:17:00.000-07:00

I read an article yesterday about a blog that makes fun of all the "look at my perfect life" blogs out there. The author of the blog goes over board and write about everything wonderful in her life and with her family (all of it is fake). I thought it was funny, because if you read a lot of the "mommy" blogs it is true , mine included.

So, why do I blog? I do it for my family. With all of us living so far apart this is the only way to keep the cousins and grandparents and others aware of the goings on in the family. I really doubt they want to here about how often I yell or lost it with my kids, or that Steve works so much we may see him even less then we did when we lived in different states, or that it is so hot here you really need to be in water to tolerate being outside, or how instead of cleaning I read (alright I do write about that).

What I am saying, is that maybe every once in a while I will change it up a bit and write about something I have been thinking about, politics and religion will be included. Until then please enjoy the "wonderful and perfect" children that I am raising and how "happy" we are 24/7.

Another Peyton moment

2008-07-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

While playing Boggle last night Peyton yelled... Quick mom how do you spell S O S. He sure keeps us laughing. Thanks Peyters!

One Quiet Moment

2008-07-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

They do not come often, but when they do we run with it. Cameron is sitting still. He loves to read, but this week he has really been reading. He finished "The Red Badge of Courage". When the book was done he was on to bigger and better things. The quiet has ended and he is on the prowl for someone to drive crazy. I think his target is Peyton.

Here we are three weeks in...

2008-07-10T05:18:00.000-07:00

and I think we are doing pretty well. The kids are making friends, at least meeting kids who brave the heat and come outside. I am moving the boxes around. I decided that since we are only renting for a year I am not decorating, and the bookshelves will not be bought until we have a house of our own. I did however search though all the boxes to find the books I still wanted to read. They are now stacked neatly against the wall by my bed.

To help the summer and our move go smoothly we found a couple of water spots to keep us cool, and I even bought Popsicles. (I am not really a frozen treat girl, but my kids enjoy them.) I even found a library. (okay it's a branch and very small, but I did find a couple of books I haven't read yet.) We even broke down and bought the kids a wii. We have never had video games, but they seem to have fun.

I have met a couple of people, and I am waiting to meet the girl who is a little irreverent, and laughs more than not. I miss my crazy friends in California. My phone bill will prove it too. I love to be around others who understand and enjoy the journey of life. It is not always pleasant, but sometimes you have to laugh at all the crap that gets thrown at you. I am far from perfect, and I am always working on myself. I choose to be happy in spite of what the world tells me I should depressed about. Size, I can do something about the weight thing, and I have ups and downs in that area, but I try. I will not get any taller, and my gray hair will not stop coming in. I spend a lot of time and money at the hair dresser, and I always get the look like "you are how old?" With all of life's challenges, whether I create them or not, I choose to surround myself with people and friends who care about me not what I appear to be. So until I find my irreverent, laughing, enjoys a good book, loves chocolate and will eat it, and size doesn't matter friend, I will long for my friends in other places. Thank heaven I have Steve who is all the above and then some. After all what is the point if you can't enjoy the journey.

Boxes everywhere

2008-06-26T14:17:00.000-07:00

We made it! After arriving at 11:30 p.m we finally slept in our home in Vegas. We gladly woke up at 6:00 a.m to watch as the movers move all of our thing into the house. All I had to do was point them in the direction in which to put things down. It is so nice to let someone else do the work.

We have spent the last five days unpacking as much as we can. So far nothing was broken in the move. (I was hoping for a new printer, or TV) I might as well dream big. We have also discovered we have a lot of books and no bookshelves. I guess I need to shop again!! So far I got a new bed, and new washer and dryer. (LG Steam wash and dry I love them.) I did all our laundry in 4 loads today. You know your a mom when you get excited about laundry.

We also have a park next door and have been out in the heat to play. I finally broke down and bought Popsicles for the boys after the park, even Marra enjoys the icy treat. We also found a spray park up the road so we can keep cool and play.

This week has been good. The best is to be all together. (Nate is at scout camp so next week will be even better.)

Moving Day!

2008-06-21T04:06:00.001-07:00

It is finally here. The day we get to finally get on with our lives and move on to the heat of Las Vegas (110 to be exact). Instead of sleeping in until 6:00, my mind decided it was a good idea to get up at 4:00.

I am going to miss parts of southern California. The beach, the food, real green grass, watching hot air balloons being blown up and flown (they start just down the street from us). I will miss my friends, I have meet some great people here. Mostly, I will miss Cameron's 1st grade teacher. She saved up from a miserable year.

I will not miss however, the taxes, the traffic (I know, Vegas has it too, I just won't have to drive in it). I will not miss driving my kids to school everyday and waiting in the carpool lane (an hour round trip). I will not miss the gas prices today I get to pay $4.70 come on $120 to fill up my tank. I know I could drive a mini van and still fit my family, but I prefer that my children not touch when we are in the car (it is so much quieter that way). Mostly, I will not miss sleeping in a different state from my husband, and only visiting on the weekends!

So farewell, Cali, I am off to finish the last couple of boxes.

observations by Peyton

2008-06-12T17:09:00.000-07:00

Coming inside today with something in his hand..."Look mom, I stepped on a dead bee, and now he can be my pet!" Handing him a sandwich bag he smiled and walked outside ready to enjoy all the benefits a dead bee brings.

When the boys are at school...

2008-06-08T21:04:00.000-07:00

we sometimes get a few moments of quiet. Marra loves to color. (walls are her favorite, but today she is willing to work with paper).
Peyton enjoys time with his sister, and trying to boss her around. She is not always willing to do what he wants. (I wonder who she gets that from).

Peyton also LOVES to watch his favorite show. Super Why, his hero is "Wonder Green", I am not sure his real name, but that is who he was for Halloween, and almost every day since. That was until he out grew his costume. (Karie I am flying in so you can help with Halloween again).

The final count down!

2008-06-08T20:47:00.000-07:00

The final count down is on. We are on our way to Las Vegas in 13 days. I will be so happy to have the family all together again, but we will miss our friends, and of course living so close to the beach. These are just a few pictures from our visit last weekend. The boys had a blast, and Marra loved being one of the boys.

Surgery

2008-06-03T12:38:00.000-07:00

Peyton loved all of the pre-0p stuff.

Then it was into the gown and off to sleepy land. He wanted to smell the strawberry mask.

When he woke up he was happy and ready to go home. It was hard to keep him in the bed. He decided with his new eyes he would be able to jump really high. The nurses wanted him to stay still for a little while.

Holding him still was a bit of a challenge, but we did alright. Then it was home to rest. He also wanted a shake from Chili's. It was the least we could do.

Observations by Peyton

2008-06-03T12:25:00.000-07:00

Peyton and I made peanut butter cookies today. I was teaching him how to roll the dough ball in the sugar and he said, "Oh it's just like rolling a cow."

Before Surgery

2008-05-30T17:21:00.000-07:00

Sorry you have to watch sideways. More pics and family fun coming soon.

The eyes have it!

2008-05-08T10:37:00.000-07:00

You may not have heard, but the world has a new super hero. Okay it's our world, but he is a hero nonetheless. While play with Marra he announced in his best superhero voice...

"I AM FAR AWAY GLASSES". He has laser eyes that only hurt bad people, and he is always kind to his friend. Pretty much that sums up our Peyters. Always happy and loves his friends. (Not sure about the laser eyes, but maybe he just scares off the bad guys).

On Monday he will have surgery to hopefully fix some of his eye problems the goal is to achieve better balance. (I guess it helps if both eyes look in the same direction at the same time).

Regardless of the outcome I am sure he will continue to be our "Peyters", and smile at whatever the world decides to throw at him.

I have been thinking a lot about eyes this week. I was listening to a conference talk I wish I could remember who was speaking, but he was talking about the BYU center in Israel. The government asked that the students not talk about the church. They all agreed not to, and then the leader asked them what they were going to do about their eyes. I realize that many people have this light, and it is something I hope comes from me as well, but I know that Peyton has it. I have been around so many people not of my faith that ask what it is that draws people to him. I have strangers in stores stop me to talk to him. His therapists truly enjoy working with him even on the bad days.

He is a great spirit to have in our home. Funny how a four year old can be such a great example.

When to read?

2008-05-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

How do I have make time to read? Easy I have a different book in almost every room in my house. Thus 4 to 5 going at a time. If I have a spare minute I open a book. If the boys are watching a movie/sports, and all is quiet I sit on the couch and pick up my book. My favorite place is in the car. I usually have my favorite book in the car with me. When I am waiting for the boys at school, sports, and friends I read. When we had the Book of Mormon challenge a couple of years ago I read the whole BOM in the car it only took me two months. Waiting in the carpool lane at school I have a lot of time. I know I should move "Jesus the Christ" to the car, but this book for me involves a notebook and dictionary so I can keep my thoughts in order (I am on page 274 so I am making progress).

I also read at night. If I am into a good book this is where I get in trouble. I read from 9 at night until I am ready to put the book down. Sometimes it is not until 3 a.m. This is only when Steve is gone. When he is home I can hold off reading until he is asleep. When Steve is home on the weekends I have been known to read all night and he lets me sleep in a little later. It is great to wake up to the sound of someone making my kids breakfast and I am not in the kitchen.

Yes, there are plenty of other things I could be doing, but reading is my escape. Right now in my life I need all the escapes I can get.

Hello my name is Marnie and I'm a bookaholic

2008-05-01T08:13:00.000-07:00

I have a problem. I love to read. I know that is not always a problem. The problem is that I read 4 to 5 books at a time. Currently I am reading...

"Eat, Pray, Love" by Gilbert I hate this book, but at what page do you turn away and never pick it up again? I keep telling myself that at some point this author will see she is selfish and grow up.

"Saving Fish From Drowning" by Amy Tan. Love it.

"Please Pass the Scriptures" by Hilton. I am reading this and then passing it on to Nate.

"21 Days Closer to Christ" by Freeman. This book allows for breaks to ponder (I don't feel to bad that it is taking me more than 21 days).

"Jesus the Christ" by Talmage I will forever be reading this one.

I didn't realize that I had a problem until I went into Cameron's classroom and had a good look at his desk. He had a pile of about 10 books and I asked him why he had so many books. His reply

"I am reading them"

"All of them?"

"Yes, see this one I am on chapter 3, this one I just started, this one I have a chapter left..."

I have created a monster. One good thing he can keep all the plots straight. Another gene from me. Maybe it is not such a problem after all. (Mason has the same issue)

Disneyland just because!

2008-04-02T12:45:00.001-07:00

This is a trip we took to Disneyland in January. It was fun to get away and be a family before Steve moved to Vegas. Why is Nathan only in one picture? He went to Disney with a friend the day before so we only found him once to get a picture. Why are there no pictures of me? I am always behind the camera!!! My kids will have to remember me in their own minds.

2008-04-02T11:17:00.000-07:00

I went to check on Marra on Saturday and this is what I saw. If you listen you can even hear her snoring, just like dad!

Happy 14

2008-03-19T19:26:00.000-07:00

14 years ago today I married my best friend. What fun we have had, and this is how it all began...

We met in March of 1993, in a singles ward while attending the U of U. Neither one of us wanted to be in the singles ward, and I was in no hurry to get married. (Steve says he was planning on graduating from college and then marry, I guess I changed his mind) It was on his first Sunday he was sitting on a couch talking to the "boy" I was seeing at the time. When I walked out of the classroom I could hear all the girls talking about the "fresh meat". Just to be mean I said "Back off ladies, he's mine". I introduced myself and left with the "boy". Funny how things progress, it turns out the "boy" was just that: a boy.

Steve and I both continued to attend the ward, and came to be good friends. We had a standing phone call every Monday night when he got home from work. From 11:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. we talked about everything, our dates (with other people), our families, and always the girls in the ward. Some of them really crushed on him, but he never batted an eye. We went dancing together almost every Saturday, but they were never dates.

Sometime in July I started seeing "someone" (except on Saturday's). Things stayed the same with Steve and I. Phone calls and dancing. In September little things started to change. Steve seemed a little more territorial right about the time my "someone" was leaving the country for a few months for job training. I finally saw who Steve really was.

On my 22nd birthday he gave me tickets for he and I to go to a Dan Fogelberg concert. It was our first "date". I had a great time. Steve had a couple bumpy moments (throwing up can put a damper on things), but I think he was happy about the outcome. Soon the phone calls where every night and Saturdays where called "dates". However, in the back of my mind there was always "someone".

After Thanksgiving things really changed. Steve took me to a restaurant that cost a lot of money. If any of you know Steve he is not a big spender, especially on food. When I came home from the date I told my mom. "I think he really likes me, he spent $50 on dinner". Dinners and movies continued and I finally gave in and let him kiss me. Yes, I made him wait a long time. I am surprised he lasted that long, but he is a true gentleman.

So in December we were a little more serious. For Christmas he left to visit his mom in Seattle and "someone" was coming home. Steve said, "I love you, I guess you have a week to decide".
Decide? Decide what? No, "I think we should get married", just decide I wasn't sure what I needed to decide. I knew that I wanted, but not what Steve wanted.

So what is a girl to do. I know one thing for sure: do not do what I did. Yes you guessed it, I did nothing. For a week I talked to Steve on the phone, and avoided "someone" as much as possible. Yes I know I am a horrible person. My mom kept telling me over and over I had to do the right thing. Lucky for me "someone" had a lot of work to do and was only able to visit when I was working. You can't talk much with a 3 year old preschool class running around.

Steve came home and we went out for New Years. All my friends thought New Year's would be the night to get engaged, but no he did not ask me. We didn't even talk about it. On January 2nd we were watching "The Princess Bride" and this is how the conversation went:

Steve: "So do you think you could ever marry a guy like me?"
Me: "are you serious?"
Steve: "Yes"
Me: "Yes"
Steve: "I was thinking March"
Me: "O.K"
Steve: "Great lets call my mom"
Me: Run to the bathroom to throw up.

A match made in heaven.

Things happened so fast I put "someone" out of my mind. Until Sunday came around and I knew they would talk about our engagement at church. We were at a missionary farewell and planned on getting back to church in time for me to talk to "someone". Little did we know that the bishop would announce it over the pulpit (got to love the singles ward). Yes I truly am cruel, my friend told me that when they announced it "someone" just put his head down. We arrived just after the meeting. "Someone" is the better person here, when I saw him I told him I was sorry and that I should have been honest from the beginning.
He said, "Does he make you happy?"
Nod yes,
"Can he take you to the temple?"
Nod yes.
"Than he is a better man than I."

Time flew by and before I knew it I was Mrs. Cottrell.

Fast forward 14 years, and 5 kids later and we still love to be around each other. Perhaps that is why it is such a sad day today. I miss him. Even far away he brightens my day. He sent me purple flowers!!! He hates the color, but he puts up with it for me. I have a great catch. I can hardly wait to see what the next 14 years bring.

Let's go fly a kite

2008-03-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

Marra spent the afternoon eating sand. Yum, good fiber!

Never thought I would do it, but we bought a couple of kites and enjoyed a couple hours on the beach flying them. Peyton could have stayed out all day. His kite was a dollar din bargin, and the easiest kite to fly. It was fun to have Steve home for the weekend and enjoy time with the family with out having to be anywhere!!!

Magic Fairies are real!

2008-03-07T19:19:00.004-08:00

Yes it is true, they are real. Mine goes by the name of Mariana and I get to see her on Fridays. I am so relaxed today. My house is picked up, the bathrooms are clean, and the brownie mess is no where to be found. It truly is a dream come true.

Swimming is still going strong, but Peyton has managed to enjoy swimming lessons. He is now talking to the criers in his class and teaching them how to deal with the water. It is funny to watch. He has almost mastered jumping in. His legs still shake, but he now lets the teacher move a couple of inches away.

Basketball is ending this weekend (the crowd goes wild, yes just me but I can be loud). The boys will now have more time to keep up on their rooms, and maybe more time at the beach. We will be there on Saturday. How can we pass it up when it is just out the front door, oh how we will miss the ocean.

Tonight the Mason has a friend staying over, so while they are all enjoying a movie with popcorn and fresh chocolate chip cookies. I will be in my room (with the door open) and reading as much as I can. With Steve gone I have managed to read a book every three days. Anyone who has a good books to read I would love to hear about it. I am running out.

All in all it is a good day. Vegas is getting closer, and my house for sure is a little calmer. I should have gotten a magic fairy sooner.

Single mom

2008-02-25T09:11:00.000-08:00

I have to admit I do not know how single parents do it. I am just trying to get the basics done, and they do not seem to be getting done. It could be that Steve is only home every other weekend, or that we are never home. I never realized how nice it is to have two drivers at home. With school, basketball (games and practices), swimming, scouts, physical therapy, and Young Men's, we live in the car. Peyton and Marra have permanent imprints in their car seats. With no one home I need a magic fairy to clean, cook, and do laundry.
That being said we are all hanging on. Steve is enjoying his job, and I am waiting for the school year to end to move on. The boys are enjoying basketball, and swimming. Peyton is not a real fan of the water (it's the balance thing). He is always trying to be 'sick' on swim days. He cries through the lesson, but that seems to be his life. Everything is a struggle. I would do anything to make things easy for him.
As for Marra she is just happy to be out of the car.
So being a single mom is not for me. I treasure the moments (and I mean moments) than I get to have my honey around. I know that all I do is because I have the support of a great man. As for being apart... "this to shall pass".
I'm off again, hope I have gas in the car.

Viva Las Vegas

2008-01-14T06:51:00.000-08:00

We are on the move again. After three years in sunny San Diego we are moving the Las Vegas. Steve is there already, and the kids and I will head out when school is over in June. I swore I would never live apart like this again after we moved from Dallas, I have learned to never say never. On the plus side we do not have to worry about selling a house.

Happy Birthday Marra

2008-01-13T18:07:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday Marra. It only took me a month and a half to post this. I win mother of the year

A reason to celebrate

2007-12-12T19:51:00.000-08:00

I had a tearful moment as a mom today and I couldn't be more thrilled. Peyton who struggles with all of his motor skills jumped over a brick at physical therapy today. The therapist and I cried tears of joy watching him meet a goal he has been working on for well over a year. Everyone in the room cheered. Peyton was so happy he wanted to do it again and again. He jumped all the way to the car. I know to many of you jumping is not a big deal, and most kids are jumping off furniture, off curbs, and even out of the car. For Peyton just learning to walk took a three years and 3 physical therapists. He has always had a great and willing spirit about him. He does what ever they ask and smiles through the tears. He melts my heart, I am so pleased with all he does. He is our miracle and continues to surprise us everyday.

Happy Belated Halloween

2007-11-14T13:40:00.000-08:00

Thought I would hurry and post our belated Halloween pictures. The boys had a great time. Cameron out lasted everyone when I came to trick or treating. We have our ever powerful "Wonder Green", a purple fairy, sumo wrestler, mummy, and a magician.

2007-08-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

Marra is cutting two teeth and is a sad little girl. It is amazing how fast nine months has gone by. Peyton is really good at taking care of his little sister. They love to be together.

2007-08-31T08:38:00.000-07:00

Mase has his first game tomorrow. We think he is ready. Dad is really ready. We are not sure how much he will really see of the game, (he is in charge of the book), but he may see Mase a bit. School is in for everyone and it is once again quiet at home. Marra and Peyton are enjoying just being with mom.

just testing

2007-08-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

I am trying to get a picture up that does not use the entire page. Remember this is all new to me. I was the one who got excited when I figured out how to send and attachment with an email.

We finally made it

2007-08-23T08:51:00.000-07:00

Yes it's true we are finally moving into the 21st century. We can officially blog. This may take sometime to get use to, but this seems the fastest way to keep in contact with family and friends.
We hope to keep you up to date on all that is happening with our family, but if it is anything like writing in a journal, it may be hit or miss.
Today we plan to play around with the blog and see what it does, we may even figure out how to post a picture.
The boys are growing so fast, and our princess is keeping up with them.