Michael and Mandi Black

Christmas Eve breakfast of champions

2011-12-24T11:04:00.001-07:00

My breakfast this morning... All from neighbor gifts.

Dear Neighbors, I love you... But none of you are my friends right now. I consider all of this loot sabotage.
Love, Mandi

Awesome Pictures by Rachel

2011-12-20T15:04:00.002-07:00

Rachel drew us some pictures today.

I love the tree: it's a Blueberry tree. And you will notice that she is reclining in the grass under the tree. Cute.

I love the dog in the sky. Also our house numbers.

Baby Kobra comparison

2011-11-24T19:20:00.001-07:00

Look what 8 months can do!

Dude it would suck to be and Elephant

2011-11-24T18:51:00.001-07:00

Brad, Cody, Austin and Rachel

NickleMania on Thanksgiving Eve

2011-11-24T18:12:00.001-07:00

Mike was off work last night and we decided to make it an FFA (Forced Family Activity). FFA's are the best!

We went to Italian Village for dinner. Yummy Pizza Benders.
This was the only time these two were not fighting:

Then we headed for the NickleMania. We had a blast!

A pretty good FFA all around.

It's true!

2011-11-08T18:13:00.001-07:00

For weeks now Mike and Rachel have been telling me that she climbed the rope at gymnastics all the way to the top. I had not seen it, so I did not believe it happened.... But today I saw it!!

There she is all the way at the top ringing he bell like crazy. I'm so proud.

2 year anniversary

2011-10-15T15:00:00.000-06:00

Gymnastics

2011-10-13T17:44:00.001-06:00

On the way down. Apparently she has gone all the way up the rope to ring the bell, but I have yet to see it.

(don't ask me why she decided to wear tights. I told her not to.)

University of Utah homecoming game vs Washington

2011-10-01T21:18:00.004-06:00

Worst part of the game: kickoff... Who are we?... BYU?

Second worst: 4 turnovers ;(

Best part: the guy with a white shirt and red tie .... And a sign that says "my wife thinks we are at conference" and a follow up sign that says "text me if they announce the second coming"

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Chores

2011-09-27T19:03:00.000-06:00

I left a list of chores for the kids Tuesday. I got home and saw this:

Rachel wrote "rachel is dun with hr churs" (translated to "Rachel is done with her chores")

Dax's birthday

2011-09-25T18:51:00.003-06:00

Black family gathering at Beef's house for Dax's 1 year birthday. Dax is the sweetest boy. He always has a big smile. His first touch of his cake he put on his chest and he only wanted to eat it with his fork.

Then Miles decided he wanted to eat the rest of Dax's cake. And Winston asked To take a picture with the two of them. They are little stinkers together.

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Oh, what a beautiful morning

2011-09-22T08:04:00.001-06:00

For work today I got to go to a different office. On my way I stopped at the cemetery to have breakfast with Randy. I looked toward the mountains to appreciate their beauty, and this was the view I got.

I'm so happy to live in a beautiful place.

And here's what happens when you walk thru grass on an early fall morning in heels.

2011-09-11T17:16:00.002-06:00

Remember that time I had blonde hair?...

2011-08-11T17:35:00.000-06:00

It didn't last too long.

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March 13 thru March 20

2011-03-20T12:22:00.002-06:00

***I asked Mitchell if he finished reading The Diary of Anne Frank. He had, so I asked his what he thought about it. He said, "She was kinda whiny." Apparently he doesn't think she had anything to complain about.

**Mike and I celebrated our 15 year anniversary on Wednesday. It's a miracle!

**Went to the Sportsman'sExpo and bought a loaf of Jewish Rye from Volkers Bakery. I handed out a piece to the kids and Mitchell of course didn't like it, but Austin and Rachel did. Austin says, "Those Jews know how to make GOOD bread!"

**got a facial. It was fabulous!

**Family Movie Night. Watched "Despicable Me" While Agnes was singing about her unicorn while trying to go to bed, Austin pipes up and says, "Wow, she's annoying. Now I know how you guys feel about me." Classic Austin.

**Mike got a massage. Now I don't have to rub him for at least a day.

** Chose our new carpet for upstairs. No more green.

Sportsman's expo 2011

2011-03-19T17:55:00.000-06:00

Elbow's just a tad high, here, Austin.

Anniversary dinner

2011-03-16T22:41:00.000-06:00

Our fifteen year anniversary was this year. I can't believe it. It seems sometimes like I've never been without Mike.... But then sometimes I feel like I don't know him at all. Strange. Please tell me I'm not the only one who feels like this.

For our anniversary this year, Mike surprised me by not telling me where we were going to dinner. And then scared me by saying he did not know where he was going... But then he drive right to it. We went to a quaint, posh, uppity Restaraunt named Franc's. (you have to say it with a Martin-Short-Father-of-the-Bride accent) (and can a place be quaint and posh, or quaint and uppity? You decide)

The food was fabulous. Mike had the meatloaf which came highly recommended... And was very good. And I had... Something pork medallions? Maybe. It was good, too. The highlight of our night, though (or maybe I should just say our dinner, and not the night!) was the soup Mike got. It was picture worthy:

See? We were told that they had been open for 3? Years and the chef had never repeated the same soup. Ours that day was a green apple and popcorn soup. It was surprisingly good. Not that we'll ever have it again...

2-7 thru 2-13-2011

2011-02-13T16:17:00.002-07:00

*I found Rachel and Austin's backpacks and found we had not done their homework packets for 3 weeks. (Parent of the year award to be issued later this year)After working on it with Rachel for 45 minutes she says, "Ow, my head. There's just so much math in my head it's starting to hurt."

*We have started laying out Rachel's clothes for the week on Sunday. We make sure everything is washed and put away, and then we can choose the outfits and shoes. I let her do it this week, and when I came in to look at what she had done, this is what I saw:

She had made labels for each day of the week! And the best part is that she did all the letters by herself, no help from anyone! I am so glad she is learning her letters,... and practicing her organization skills at such an early age! :)

January 31 thru February 6

2011-02-06T14:00:00.005-07:00

* Guava coconut cake from Pounders. YUM.
* New haircut (which I LOVE) includes bangs and a darker color.
* I called 911 for the first time (on purpose, at least). I drove up to Fresh Market (that's Albertson's for everyone), and saw smoke coming from a car hood. Parked and waited for a minute until I saw flames coming from the wheel well. Reported to 911. Fire department arrived and put out the fire. I felt like a responsible citizen.
* Filled out a "Juror Qualifying Form". Yipee.
* Discussing with Austin going to Utah Gymnastics meet. Told him we need to wear pink for Breast Cancer awareness. He asked if we could buy an "I (Heart) boobies" bracelet. Who knew it started so young?

January 24-30

2011-01-30T12:13:00.001-07:00

* We laid out all Rachel's clothes for the week last night. She comes up to me this morning having quite a problem, "I don't know what to wear... they are all so cute!"
* I have a new owner at work. Lots of changes to keep me busy.
* Went on a date with my BFF, Ann, to Utah Gymnastics meet. Was so fun!
* Date # 2 with Ann involved our husbands. Movie: The Dilemma and Dinner: Epic (yum!)
* New favorite place to shop for clothes: Deseret Industries. I totally get more for my money!!
* Come home from church to find Austin's shopping list:
Cheese nips, Ritz bits, Raisn Bran, Nerds rope, Reses Pese, gummy worms, diet coke, gummy bears, oreos, 5 lunchabeles, dog treats, tolet paper. There was a little something for everyone in there.
* Conversation with Mike while he was at work on Sunday: "Ok, well, I'll see you on..... (crickets) Wednesday." For those of you counting.... that's 3 days!

January 17-23

2011-01-23T08:13:00.003-07:00

* Rachel keeps writing her last name as "Blachel". It cracks us all up.
* Family Movie Night with Mike (Yeah for HAVING to use his holiday hours in the same pay period)We watched "Big". The kids had never seen it, and they loved it.... right up until the big "F" bomb at the end. In a PG movie. What is the world coming to? Mitchell especially liked it since Josh in the movie turns 13.
* Discovered what all the "dropping" noises are when Austin and Rachel take a shower. They are playing Soap Soccer, also known as Shower Soccer with the soap.
* Austin makes lunch for the family (hamburgers on the grill with dad's help). He then proceeds to tell us we can thank him for lunch... and dad for passing on his awesome grillmaster skills (gangsta hand gesture included).
* While watching "The Black Stallion" last night, Austin and Mitchell have all sorts of comments about the movie. It drives me crazy. Favorite one: "Hey, mom. They are just "horsing around". This gets giggles all around... until I yell at them to go to bed.
* I HATE video games..... and the X-Box 360. Enough said.
* Dinner with Siggards (Cherlyn used to babysit the Black kids when they were younger). So fun to hear stories from another point of view. And all the kids came home with a new toy!

January 10-16

2011-01-16T12:00:00.003-07:00

* Started round 2 of P90X, classic which entails a Plyometric video (with lots of jumping). Amazed that a guy with a prosthetic leg can do the workout... and proceed to almost die. Soreness lasts 3 days.
* Yoga with the Young Women. Wonder if I have joined a new religion.
* Did research on Kindle vs Nook. Happily neighbor, Nikki, has a Kindle and is generous enough to let me borrow it for a couple hours. Do "research" while watching football. Decide I need a Nook so I can "borrow" ebooks from the library.
* Watch football (Ravens vs Pittsburgh). Comment correctly on some plays. Not sure how I feel about this.
* Read Kyra's updated blog. Scream a little... and cry that she has updated.
* Go to Saturday Evening session of Stake Conference while my family goes to In N Out. Leave early because I decide that family is more important than Stake Conference (besides it was almost over by then anyway). Get home in time to kiss my kids goodnight.
* Make churro's with my new Kitchenaid (breaking in slowly). Kids love them. House smells like frying oil. Not my favorite smell.
* Discover Gingerbread Granola. I am addicted.
* Saw Dr. Dave with Austin. Austin's vision is 20/20 with his glasses. Has made lots of progress over the past 3 years from 80/20. He's so good about wearing his glasses all the time.

2011-01-09T14:24:00.002-07:00

Highlights for January 1-9th
*Christmas tree was already taken down on January 1st, and Mike was mad at me. But I loved it, so there.
*Sunday was the first day of 9 am church for 3 years. Am I happy about it? Yes, but the jury's still out on what to do with my kids in the afternoon, so I don't kill them.
*First week of Mike's set schedule was a success. Wednesday evenings off: nice (except I am at YW, so I don't truly appreciate it.. but kids do). All day Saturday off: LOVE IT!!
* Tried to go bowling with half off coupon on first Saturday Mike had off: FAIL. Dumb bowling had another "thing" going so wouldn't honor the coupon. Alternate activity: Sizzler for lunch at 3 pm.
*Friday: spontaneous Girls night with Rachel after BFF, Ann, told me she was going to Utah Gymnastics. Parking: something to be desired. Gymnastics meet: Awesome with free tickets... and finding Ann and sitting next to her on the 9th row right behind the vault. Rachel LOVED it, and said to me that she HAS to learn how to dance like the floor routines... and that she was going to DIE if she did not get to do gymastics. Successful outing.
* Saturday: Bowling = FUN. Austin says he uses his mind control to guide the ball. Rachel was a great cheerleader for everyone, and did pretty well. Mitchell is left handed and struggled to keep his ball right down the lane. Mike did the best... although I got 3 spares in a row. Yeah for bumper pads!!!!
* I have been wanting a Kitchenaid mixer for about 15 years now, and Mike won some money from a sports "thing"... and surprised me with a beautiful mixer. I have yet to use it.
* I was feeling ambitious and cleaned out our "pantry". That's all I want to say about that.
* Made a Buttercup Purse

Jack, Dave, John, Peter... the gang's all here!

2010-10-07T10:13:00.008-06:00

Contrary to popular belief, I actually do not really like concerts. My first concert (besides the Mid-State Fair... those don't really count, right?) was a Bon Jovi concert up at Wolf Mountain... at which I bought a t-shirt. Mike now relentlessly teases me about that. (I secretly wish I still had it. I would wear it everywhere just to annoy him.)
However, this summer was my turn to make up for all the concerts I have not gone to.
August 13: Jack Johnson. This was the one I was most looking forward to.... and it did not disappoint. We arrived pretty early (like, 5:30 pm early), and were walking around in the grassy area. Mike leads us over to a stage they have set up, and says "That sounds like G-Love." Well, sure enough it WAS G-Love (did you know his real name is Garrett? Just learned that on Wikipedia... everything on Wikipedia is true.)! So we are about 5 feet from the stage listening to his hip-hop blues and kinda weird singing voice, and thinking how unreal this is. He plays a couple songs with guitar and harmonica (how does he DO that?), and introduces Paula (somebody) for a song. Then he says, "Welcome Jack Johnson up to the stage." REALLY? IS THIS REAL LIFE? Yes. It was.

The rest of the concert was good, but a bit of a disappointment after being SO CLOSE.

August 17: Dave Matthews. Going anywhere with Mike's siblings always makes for a fun time. Amie, Ryan, Becca, and Matt joined us for this concert. (Missed you Beef & Megan!!) Lots of fun just hanging out on the lawn talking without interruptions from kids.

August 31: Owl City & John Mayer. Nikki & Ian joined us for this one. Fun times... especially listening to the girls behind us complain about less talking, more singing... and they wanted less jamming, and more songs sounding like the CD. Interesting.

September 10: Peter Cetera. Nikki, Janelle, Liberty. We had a GREAT time making fun of the bio they gave us for him. His witty comments about how Sandy was fortunate, and Salt Lake City really missed out on his concert kept us rolling in the aisles. We may have been on the younger end of the age range in this crowd. I say that because we were the ONLY ones standing at all. At one point Nikki says, "I'm getting my money's worth out of this concert." This was especially funny because the tickets were free.

one year

2010-10-04T21:30:00.000-06:00

no tears were shed, except when Miles bit Rachel. Followed by a slow dinner at El Farol.

This sums up Austin to a tee.

2010-09-23T17:43:00.000-06:00

This was from last year... Third grade with Mrs North. She was such a great teacher for him, she told us she even wanted to take him home.

Mystery Dinner in YM/YW

2010-09-20T17:48:00.000-06:00

It's a little hard to tell, but everyone is eating random food with random utensils: spaghetti noodles with a toothpick, anyone?

Rachel's Kindergarten class

2010-09-07T17:39:00.000-06:00

Is it just me, or does this seem
Like 2023 is forever away? I know it will go by in a flash, though.

"Hike" at Silver Lake

2010-07-06T13:27:00.003-06:00

Friday we went for a "hike" around Silver Lake. Mitchell was at scout camp, so it was just the 4 of us.

SOURDOUGH BREAD, you're the best!

2010-07-06T12:46:00.004-06:00

I love sourdough bread. Like, REALLY love it. It's my favorite. I have tried for years and years and years to make a good SOUR sourdough. It just was not working. No matter which recipe I tried. Recently, I had given up. I decided that our Utah dry desert air was not conducive to the yeast the bread needs.

Well, a month ago, I got a book from the library called, "The Breadbaker's Apprentice" by Peter Reinhart. I in no way consider myself a full time baker, which this book requires that you be, since the first loaf of bread I made from it was a Ciabatta bread that took 7 hours to complete (and I even left out a step). It was good, but not 7 hours good. I decided that I would give the book 1 more try, and chose a Sourdough recipe. From start to finish, it took about 2 weeks worth of care to get this bad boy. I made my own seed culture (the fermented flour and water that catches the yeast in the air), from that I made the barm (or mother starter, if you will), and finally the dough to make a loaf of bread. If you already have the barm going, it will still take 2-3 days to finish this loaf.

So without further ado, here's my finished loaf:
A little underwhelming, I know. I sliced it, and it made breadsticks, but HALLELUJAH! It was SOUR. Even Mitchell said I should be a professional bread baker. um, no thanks. But it was great to FINALLY have a sourdough recipe that was nice and sour.

Dear Whitney,

2010-07-06T10:11:00.020-06:00

Remember how Girls Camp was fun back when you were in Young Women's (What was that about 3 years ago?)? Well, I have news for you. It's even MORE fun as a leader.

As requested:
By the way, Nikki and I did this balance challenge, and rocked it in about 5 minutes. As if anyone needed any more proof, we're awesome.They just could not figure this one out.

I was the cheater on this balance beam. I'm a great example, I know.

This wall was fun... except I am not really that tall, so it was a struggle to reach all the holds.

Dance Party/service project
One Clear Voice came to perform for us.

At the top of our hike.Does this picture surprise anyone? Not me. These cute girls are AWESOME!!

A letter to my sister

2010-06-28T13:41:00.003-06:00

Dear Kyra,

Wow!! I sure do miss you. I (partly)composed this post while eating (read: scarfing) my lunch. I know you are asking yourself, "What did Mandi have for lunch?". I will tell you: lettuce that I grew in my own garden, tomatoes and avocados that I got from the Co-op pick up on Saturday, cheese that I MADE from yogurt that I MADE (oh, yeah, it's YUMMY), and balsamic vinaigrette that I bought from the store. Aside from the dressing, I am kinda starting to sound granola. Next thing you know, I'll be wearing Teva's, forgoing deodorant, and driving an Outback (sorry, Beef!).

I just got back from Girls Camp up in Wallsburg, Utah on Friday. I cannot believe how much fun I had. Apparently I still think I'm 16, so I fit right in. We had a blast... but as I'm sure you remember, there was a spiritual side to it, too. On the very first night, some of the girls and I had a great talk around the fire (that I built! Thank you, Dad.). As I have thought about the things we discussed, I have no doubt that I was prepared for that discussion.... even as much as 9 months ago. I am amazed at how Heavenly Father works in all of our lives, and knows what we need... and puts it into place for us. We also had a musical fireside by a group called One Clear Voice. One of the ladies in my ward is in that group, and I love to listen to her sing. I am even her Visiting Teacher. How lucky is that? I don't know why I didn't take my tissues everywhere with me, 'cuz I was sure crying a ton that night. Maybe I'll post some pictures later... they will have to be kept on the "D - L" because our YW president is a ball of fun, and has requested that "What happens at Camp, stays at camp." We'll see about that. (hehe)

Mitchell is off to Scout Camp today. They are spending the week at Bear Lake. Bishop asked last night what his goal was for earning Merit Badges, and he said, "At least one." The little stinker. I dropped him off this morning, and as I was leaving, he just gave me a wave from the middle of the group, and I said, "That's not gonna work for me." So I made him come over and give me a hug (I didn't want to embarrass him too much with a big fat kiss). Yeah, I'm THAT mom. It will be a sad thing to have him gone all week. I'm kind of looking forward to less fighting between him and Austin, though.

Austin (finally) learned how to ride his bike. He's still very wobbly, but we took a ride last night to the circle, and he did a good job. He was being a bit defiant (read: VERY defiant) last night, but otherwise, he's such a great boy. He always has funny things to say, and the neighborhood loves to hear it. A week or so ago, Rachel was being a chatterbox in bed while Austin was trying to go to sleep, and Austin finally pipes up and says, "Rachel, help a brother out." So great!

Rachel is still the cutest thing ever, but she sucks at cleaning her room. I swear I have to ask her at least 20 times a day to work on it. She has gotten a little better once I took all her toys away, but she can still find things to leave all over the floor. As you may remember, she rides her bike like a champ. We do have lots of scraped knees, though. She's tough. She also has a little body builder body. I think her biceps are way more trim than mine, or even Mitchell for that matter. I wonder how tall she'll be. She has such long legs, but she also got Mike's long body, too. It's so interesting to think ahead as wonder what your kids will become. Last night (and almost every other night, for that matter) she prayed that she would get a backpack for kindergarten, and that she would have fun at kindergarten... which doesn't start for 63 days, mind you.

We are heading to St George next week with the Blacks. I think we are going to do a couple hikes (VERY early in the morning), and the usual massage and pedicures, and shopping and swimming... lots of swimming. I'm a little worried about how hot it will be, but that's when we get the best stories! Then the week after that, Mitchell and I head back up to Bear Lake to Youth Conference for just our ward. I think I am even more excited about that than I was before Girls Camp. The first day we get to do the ropes course at USU. We'll see if I am coordinated enough to not trip all over my face.

I hope everything is great with you. I love to see all the stuff you're up to (even if I have to read mom's blog to do it). Hope to see you soon. Don't really know the plan yet, though.

Loves, Mandi

I'm only posting to get all the pictures off my camera

2010-06-17T16:09:00.009-06:00

WARNING: THIS WILL BE PROBABLY THE BIGGEST. POST. EVER.

In the (how long?) time since my last post, there have been things happening here, but not mentioned. I really would hate to post everyday with nothing to say, and that means I make monster posts. Sorry, that's life for me.

I am going to back track a little bit, just to make sure you get all the pictures. That's all you care about, I know. Who wants a post with all words? Not me. Sometimes I wish I could talk in real life with pictures. Crazy.

Wow, I am going to really go back here.

Back in November, Mike and I went to San Fransisco. It was a fun trip, and mainly resulted from Mike (being the Tenneesee Titan's fan that he is) wanting to go watch a NFL game. Titans played the... who? I can't remember (maybe the pictures will remind me) in Candlestick Park (which Mike informed me was a hole in the ground yucky field)on November, so we made a weekend of it.

.

We got there on the night of Thursday, and were cutting it pretty close to make it to the best show...ever!!... Wicked. I got the soundtrack from the library and spent a couple weeks learning all the songs, and it was great to finally know what the story was. The Orpheum Theater was AMAZING.

We were starving after it was over, so we asked the first cabbie we could find (after trying to find one forever) what the best place to go was. He took us to the Grubstake and we had the best dinner!

The next day we and went to Alcatraz Island.

We went there on our honeymoon, but since that was so long ago, we decided to go again. It was rainy the whole time, and thankfully we bought an umbrella after we were done... because it stopped raining. We got a good soaking, though. Had some clam chowder at the Sourdough bread factory (YUM-O), and Mike fell in love with Boylan's diet black cherry soda (we even had to go back a couple days later just to get a soda.)

Today is my birthday... and other random happenings

2010-04-08T13:01:00.009-06:00

Rachel requests a picnic in February!

After 17 years of faithfulness, the era of the "Great Honda Car" has come to an end. We sold our Honda to a loving Hispanic gentleman who will no doubt use it for parts. Thanks for all the memories, Great Honda Car!

My second child was baptized last month. I could not wait from his 8th birthday, until he was baptized. He was a hell child those weeks, but I really could see a difference in his mannerisms after he was baptized. He really takes it seriously, this being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ, and representing Christ. We had a wonderful family get-together.... followed by Mike's best friend's wedding later that day.

Can you tell Austin's excited about scouting?

Austin loves scouting. LOVES IT. He is so excited about it. We have half the Articles of Faith memorized just because he loves to work on them. We started to read "Percy Jackson and the Lightening Thief". We can read a chapter in 20 minutes (I read while he follows along - what can I say, I am not patient enough to let him read to me). He is so excited about reading. After we are done reading that, he's grab his scriptures (Thanks, Mom!) and encourage me to read a chapter with him. He loves that we are on a different part than the rest of the family. He has hopes to pass them, but we'll see.
Austin wanted to be Harvey Two Face for some school thing. This was the best we could do. I think the red-eyes really add to the effect. :)

Rachel has been challenging lately. Not really fair to say, but I'm keeping it real here. Aside from the lipstick/pen on the carpet, she loves makeup and nail polish. Stuff she should not get into, but does. I got mad at her for getting into my nail polish twice in two days, and she came back at me with, "Well, if you would paint my nails, then I wouldn't have to do it myself" Needless to say, that did not win her any points.

Mitchell has been playing more with some friends in our neighborhood. I love it. And I'm realizing that he's kinda short. He'll grow, I know, but it's a fun thing to notice. Also, he talks about Nazi zombies non-stop. Just a warning.

Mike and I celebrated our 14 year anniversary last month. Yes. 14. That must mean we really love each other. Last night in Young Women's we were talking about dating (Thank you New Era!), and discussed that as youth, we threw out an "I love you" to everyone, when really, at that age, while we do know what love is, we have no idea the depth of love we can possess. Even from our wedding day to now, it has changed so much. Thanks for 14 great years, Mike, and an eternity to come!

Last week, I told Mike that Austin was my favorite child right now. Yes, I actually said that out loud. (I had had enough of Mitchell not listening, and whining about some lame game he wanted, and Rachel had used my red lipstick to draw a beautiful heart on her carpet, then the next day used a green Expo dry erase pen to emphasize it...among other heinous crimes) And that jinxed it. commence the fighting all weekend long. The Easter bunny almost skipped our house. Really. But he came, albeit a bit late.

We put up our General Conference tent last Saturday. The people of King Benjamin in the Book of Mormon, gathered together to hear words of their prophet, and their tents faced the tower. We have modified that a bit, but every 6 months we put up our tent (which takes up the whole living room), and face it towards the tv, and let the words of our prophets lift us up and inspire us to be better people. This Easter was it especially poignant to reflect on where we were last conference. ...and also to feel the grace and mercy of the Atonement of the Savior, and how it can change each of us into who God wants us to be.

Well, I'll just put it out there. Today is my birthday (well, technically not until 11:23 p.m. Please do NOT call me at that time. I will be asleep. I love sleep.). I am 33 years old. I am practically dead. Why is it that you can still remember when 33 was REALLY old? Then you turn that age, and it's really not that old. Thanks to OLIVIA, who said to me last night, "You can't be that old, right?" Thanks to all who wished me Happy Birthday. I think birthdays are all about feeling loved. I need to make a better effort at that.

A story to tell

2010-01-28T12:44:00.003-07:00

Once upon a time, a certain employee of a certain dental office went into the break room for a staff meeting. All staff present at this meeting were dismayed when the white board came out (we were in for a looooong meeting). Then a certain dentist invited us into his office to watch a movie:

(I will admit, I even shed a tear. A lone single tear)

Then the staff members assembled back into the break room to finish said staff meeting. All rejoiced when said doctor announced he did not want to ruin the feeling we had, so we would have our staff meeting another time. Then he handed out gift certificates for lunch for everyone.

Thus we see the power of a smile!!

(P.S. That JUST happened!!)

Let's just start where we're at

2009-12-08T20:27:00.005-07:00

Dear faithful readers,

I know you check daily to see if anything new has been posted here, but there never is. Well, hold on to your hats. We have a new post... and it's about an activity we had YESTERDAY. I know. A recent event. I try to please.

This has been a hard year for us. Christmas especially has me worried about tears and crying at the drop of a hat. No, this isn't 5 year old drama, but adult crying. It's been hard, but we got through last night without a tear (well, from the adults anyway). Randy started a tradition about 8 (?) years ago of giving the kids Christmas pajamas and they got to have a sleepover at Grandpa's house. That was not in the cards to happen this year, but we did get to enjoy the PJ's he picked out for the kids. Beef and Megan were kind enough to host (and boy did they host. Sorry for the ridiquious mess!) us for dinner and movie night with the annual PJ present opening and pillowcases from Megan.

We had great food, and marginal conversation (not that the company wasn't lively, but it was the topic that left a bad taste), and good memories.

This had to be posted because we have Matt sitting at the kids table. Not really because he was supervising, but because he is a gimp, and no one wanted him spilling his french dip on the carpet.
I know you just saw Rachel in the picture above, but I loved her face when she was posing for just a bit too long.This reminds me a bit of Danny. You always have to appease him with a silly picture to get the good one out of him.All the grandkids. They sure are a cute bunch. We are so lucky to have such great family, and be able to get together so often. We love you guys.
BoysCutest girls EVER!

2009-11-17T11:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog,

I had such high hopes, such lofty goals, for you today.

Alas, it was not to be.

I am sick, sick, sick. And whiny.

Loves,

Mandi

Rachel's Halloween party

2009-10-28T11:49:00.002-06:00

Isn't she adorable. I gave her a choice of costumes at the store. She could have been Snow White, or Sleeping Beauty, whatever, but she decided she wanted to be a bride.

Fun Family Activity

2009-09-29T08:47:00.006-06:00

So when Mike was growing up, they would have this activity where they would go to the store and each get $ 2 to spend toward a dinner for the whole family. Then everyone would combine their "winnings" to have a fun and random dinner. Some of their creations were a box of cereal, mac & cheese, and the like.

Mike decided that we would take our $3 each and go to Harmon's last night for dinner. It sure was fun!

So, here's our spoils. We ended up spending $3.30 each, but overall, it was a pretty healthy dinner!

Our plates were so full, we ended up not eating everything.
Thanks, Mike for a great tradition!

Edited to add: It has been brought to my attention that I need to label the items:
Mike: All beef hot dogs, crescent rolls (to make pigs in a blanket) (yes, that is ketchup and mustard next to it on my plate: the best condiments are a combination of the two...at least for pigs in a blanket)
Mandi: pears and string cheese
Mitchell: 2 small logs of pepperoni (standard fare for this 12 year old)
Austin: yogurt (he's a genious, what can I say)
Rachel: peaches and fruit leather (who still loves fruit leather? Me, that's who!)

This is The Place!

2009-08-19T08:57:00.000-06:00

Becca and I planned a fun outing to This is the Place on August 19. It is such a cool place. First we took the train to Brigham Young's house (although, he never really lived there).

Sorry, but Austin had to have his own picture with the statue.

I'm still trying to picture Rachel in a dress walking across the plains. Especially with how hot it was on the day we were there. On the train. We loved the train. I think we rode it about 20 times. The park is situated on a hill, so I would recommend taking the train around once to get the layout of the stops, then get off at the top of the hill (with the Teepee's and Hogan's), and walk down.

Here's Brigham with the kids. He was great. He was very good at answering all the kids questions (and Austin had a lot!). We also loved that we could walk all around the house, and touch stuff, and really get a sense of how they really lived (with out A/C).

The gazebo in the back is where people get married. If you were to get married here, would you have to have a bonnet?

This is the Deseret News building. We spent a lot of time talking about how Mike would have worked here. He would have had 6 twelve hour days, a lot of it spend setting type (a VERY laborious task), and making paper out of old rags. He would have come home all ink-y, and not done a whole lot of writing. This was showing us how the type was set, and how the press worked. Austin, of course had many questions for him as well.

The Heber C. Kimball house (actually a mirror reproduction). This house was so cool! We weren't allowed to touch hardly anything because a lot of the items in the house were really his! Also, my kids loved the window into the cellar, and talking about the advantages of having a refrigerator. President Kimball had a kind of wacky floor plan because he was continually adding to his home to keep men working. He was very generous.This home was a home that held 9 family members. All these log cabins on First West were small homes that were built to house large families. How grateful I am that we each have our own room, and not one large room to share between the 5 of us.

Austin and Winston riding together. Mitchell was too cool to ride, so of course Colton was, too.

This petting zoo was so cool!! You got to go into the pen and pet the pygmy goats and cute sheep. There was even a baby sheep that was so soft. We also got to look at the pigs and rabbits (they WERE in pens). Their water came from a beautiful waterfall in the middle of the pen.
Becca and I loved the Relief Society Hall. Women would come to work on projects... and then they would leave them out! and just close the doors, without worrying about having the kids destroy them! This is a novel concept, and one I think we should revisit today.
The Pine Valley meeting house. We are still not sure why it's on the second story, but there was a stage, and they used this as an all purpose gathering place for plays, church meetings, and other group events.We rode the little train around the lake that supplied water for the mill right next to it. This is where you get the best view of the valley (as Austin is so aptly demonstrating).

We headed (walked/hiked) up to the Indian Village, and I discussed my new lashing skills with the Indian that built his teepee with his lashing skills (thank you 11 year old scout camp!)
We sat in these cool chairs where I proclaimed "These are pretty comfortable", and the girls replied, "Hey, these ARE comfortable!".We ALL made arrowhead necklaces in a Hogan that was very hot.
A visit to the millinery. The lovely milliner was gracious enough to let the girls try on her hats (which were BEAUTIFUL, by the way). This hat really fits Rachel's personality, I think). They just WERE NOT allowed to touch at all! She had a sewing machine in her shop, and I mentioned that it was an old sewing machine that she probably made her hats with, and she said she makes them all by hand. WOW!!
Ellie just HAD to visit the schoolhouse. So we did.
It was interesting to find out that the girls sat on one side of the room and the boys on the other. Austin, of course, had to know which row he would sit in if her was in 2nd grade... and was a bit disappointed to learn that she did not have a definative answer because it depends on which children were in the classroom.
Probably my favorite part was the chore house. I loved watching them do laundry, and beat the rugs clean. I think it really brought into perspective for the kids just how hard daily life was.
And here is where Becca and kids leave us...but we decide to stay and see a couple more things.We rode the train twice around to finally get off on the right stop to walk to Mary Fielding Smith's home. This was a beautiful home off the beaten path, but worth the walk. (Plus we loved the rest on the train. Have I mentioned that it was pretty hot that day?) Her home is off to the side to represent that she built (what a woman) her home in the Millcreek area away from the majority of the saints. Her home was fairly big, and light and airy. I loved it.Another view of our beautiful valley from a higher perspective.
We all decided that we wanted to see everything by this point...and we were pretty tired. However, there is a cemetary up above the main village, so we decided to walk up to it. We took a shortcut through a field, and ended up fairly close, and then we just had a little hike up on the sidewalk to get the rest of the way to it. Boy am I glad we made the effort. It was beautiful... and so serene. Even with Rachel throwing a fit (as evidenced in the above picture.).
A couple more out of the way houses (The Ashby Dugout, like the one the Ingalls family lived in in On the Banks of Plum Creek-Thank you Mitchell, The Ottinger-Little Hall, a firehouse), and were hoping to make it to the Huntsman Hotel, but they closed. Made it to Madsen Furniture and ZCMI, where we tried on these adorable hats:
We finished up the the Andrus Halfway House, a boarding house that had a beautiful kitchen.
It was such a great day; exhausting, but amazing. Even the kids said they loved it (including Mitchell), and wanted to come back with our neighbors. We opened and closed the place... and that's good enough for this year.

No more hippie

2009-08-10T14:35:00.003-06:00

As many of you know, Mitchell wanted to grow a "shag" hair cut. We told him that was fine until his priesthood ordination. That date was quickly approaching, and he had his bishop's interview on Sunday. To make a long story short (I know, too late), we talked him into the missionary cut a couple of weeks early. A nice before and after shot.

July 3rd: horses, kitties and a parade

2009-07-10T09:29:00.004-06:00

We had a pretty good day on July 3rd. First we went up to Mandi's witch doctor (I'll let her explain that one), then took the kid's over to Mandi's friend from UDA (Utah Dental Association) to ride her horse. There was a new litter of kitties by their coral that the kids named Sparky, Bob and Hidey. Later that night, Mike covered Real, but Mandi and the kids went to the Riverton Parade with Grandpa and their cousins.

Club Cabin

2009-07-10T09:25:00.002-06:00

This is definitely not the best footage as the kids' "Dance off" went on for about 15-20 minutes, but this at least gives you an idea.

"Cabin"

2009-06-30T17:56:00.007-06:00

I have to put the quotes because this "cabin" is bigger than our house by about double. We went up over the weekend for a little bit of family fun.

The boys headed out for a round of golf and left the girls back with this crew. After the males returned, we got in a little four-wheelin'. Overall, a good time was had by all.

Drive-in

2009-06-30T17:53:00.003-06:00

Our custom in the warmer months, we went to the drive-in movies. We saw Night at the Museum II and X-Men Origins, Wolverine. Rachel almost made it all the way through the first one before falling asleep. Austin bit the dust halfway through the second, same with Mandi, and Mitchell and I watched all of both.

The Many Faces of Austin

2009-06-14T18:48:00.000-06:00

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

2009-06-11T09:01:00.011-06:00

So, have YOU ever been on a date with your father-in-law? Well, me either. But last night I was asked to join Randy at a play. I jumped at the chance, and was delighted! He's a pretty good date (must be where my husband got it from :))! I drove his Lexus, and that was enough to really make me sick (and very nervous)...and then I got to parallel park downtown! I think the last time I did that was at my drivers test. But I did an ok job (thank goodness for rear view cameras, and a little coaching from Randy). We went to Lamb's Grill Cafe. It has been in the same beautiful, old building since 1939. Yummy!

Tom and Corinne joined us. Tom always cracks us up with corny jokes. The one that stood out to me was:

"I just got back from a pleasure trip...... I took my mother-in-law to the airport!"

I thought it was great. Tom can really dead-pan it... just like W.C. Fields.

We walked to Capitol Theatre... holding hands. It was so nice. Lately we have all been taking the time to really relish each moment we are in, and it has really been bonding us closer together. I'm grateful for each moment.

We saw Megan and Luann, which I was not expecting.

The play was really good. the beginning had me a little worried because I really did not get into it, but act 2 was just full of excitement. We left singing the songs.
Overall a great date with my father-in-law!!

Rachel

2009-06-10T13:21:00.005-06:00

Rachel learned how to ride a two wheeler!! She LOVES to ride her bike and does it EVERY day. Austin's still not there yet, but that's our goal this summer.

Disneyland, day 3

2009-01-25T15:44:00.007-07:00

Disneyland, Day 2

2009-01-02T14:52:00.003-07:00

2009-01-02T14:41:00.001-07:00

2009-01-02T14:40:00.001-07:00

2009-01-02T14:39:00.001-07:00

Disneyland, day 1

2008-12-14T21:18:00.006-07:00

2008-12-14T21:17:00.000-07:00

2008-12-14T21:16:00.000-07:00

2008-12-14T21:15:00.000-07:00

Silly Elves

2008-11-29T12:30:00.001-07:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Sea World

2008-10-20T15:27:00.002-06:00

One of my favorite places on Earth is Sea World. When I was younger, I thought I wanted to be a marine biologist with my dream job being a dolphin trainer at Sea World. A highlight was watching all the kids pet the Rays, and you have read in an earlier post of Austin's experience trying to pet the dolphins. Austin said he wanted to sit in the "Splash Zone" for Shamu. Once we got there he started to freak out, but we made him stay and sat very close to where he came out at the front (Picture). And to top it off, we only got a couple of drops on us. You will catch a theme here pretty soon— We were there from park opening to close, so it was a fun time on another very long day.

Taking the Animals to the Zoo

2008-10-20T15:21:00.004-06:00

The next day we got up and went to the San Diego Zoo. We took the tour bus and sat up on top (pictured). Also, Austin got a nice kiss through the glass with the orangutan in the picture. He is a little bit sensitive about it though and even started to cry a little bit when I told him I was going to post about it. Our favorite thing was this Galapagos turtle that loved to have his head scratched. We went back to him like four times and named him, "Darwin" for his study on the turtles. Another long but very fun day.

Padres Game

2008-10-20T15:21:00.001-06:00

After our time in Paso, we drove to San Diego, stopping along the way to pick up Aunt Kyra and Uncle Brad. That night we took the whole clan to the San Diego Padres game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. It was a really cool ball park. Our seats were in the nose-bleeds, but included a hot dog and drink for pretty darn cheap. The kids had a lot of fun and of course, it was a blast for me to be at a big-league game.

Hi, Paso, Avila Beach and Grandpa and Grandma

2008-10-20T15:20:00.000-06:00

Well, to start our 11-day marathon to California. We first drove to St. George for a night and stayed. Then, spent a nice long day in the car getting to Paso Robles and Mandi's parents house. Thanks for the hospitality and the yummy dinner that night. The next day we went to the beach, and the kids absolutely LOVED it. They had fun playing in the sand and ocean, and the biggest kid (me) is also a big fan of playing in the water. We saw sea lions playing in the waves only about 25 feet from us, and saw a jellyfish. It was very nice weather (about 80), and like normal, the Pacific Ocean was a little chilly, but we had a blast.

So You Think You Can Dance Part II

2008-10-20T15:19:00.001-06:00

Yes, for the second straight year I put away all my masculine tendencies and took Mandi to see the So You Think You Can Dance Tour. Everyone has their guilty pleasures, and I must admit this is mine. We had pretty good seats and had a great time. Here were a couple of the pictures. Mandi likes the first one because her favorite dancer, Joshua- who won it all, is in some VERY tight pants doing a Rumba? I think.

My brother's famous!!

2008-10-16T08:34:00.001-06:00

So, my brother Cody and his friends wrote a Prop 8 song, and made a video to it. It's posted to You tube, so he's totally famous now.

Check it out HERE AT YOUTUBE

The Funny Things Kids Say

2008-10-12T20:27:00.005-06:00

*** "Motel. It's like hotel with a mo."

*** "California didn't look like this last time we were here."

*** We were playing the Alphabet game (you know, where you think of places that start with each letter of the alphabet). We were on T. Mike said "Timbuktu" and Austin instantly pipes up with "Timbuk-three!"

*** Rachel checks the map at the San Diego Zoo and says "We are in the Jungle Book."

*** Still at the San Diego Zoo Austin says, "Brad, I can smell Mitchell, we're close. It's my animal instincts."

*** Austin trying to pet the dolphins at the San Diego Zoo. Asks Kyra if she can whistle. Kyra says No. Asks me if I can whistle. I say No. Austin says, "Then we're doomed!"

*** Austin after the Hollywood Tower of Terror. He was VERY apprehensive about going on all the "bigger" rides and had to talk to all of the ride operators. I really do mean ALL of the ride operators. The build up for the Tower of Terror is a bit scary for a 6 year old...ghosts in the hotel, and lights going out, and Twilight Zone scary music. So we ride the ride and Austin says (once we get through the gift shop that are at the end of almost every ride), "Well, at least I'm alive."

*** Rachel after we "sneaked" her on to Splash Mountain. "Whew! We made it!"

We had a great time on our trip. Can't wait to tell you all about it through pictures.

Trying to kill time while I get my trip post together

2008-10-08T17:55:00.004-06:00

Husband tag. Here goes:

1. Where did you meet your husband? Blind date. I worked with Katie who was dating Brandon who was friends with Mike
2. How long did you date before you married? about 6 or 7 months
3. How long have you been married? 12 1/2 years
4. What does he do that surprises you? he loves to buy me little things that he knows I like, but wouldn't get for myself. When we were dating he would come pick me up and always have a little surprise for me: perfume, a flower, etc
5. What is his favorite feature? lips... and rock hard abs
6. What is his favorite quality? he's generous and thoughtful
7. Does he have a nickname for you? sweetheart or babe
8. What is his favorite food? MEAT
9. What is his favorite sport? ALL. ie: football, basketball, soccer, poker (is that a sport? He loves to watch it and play it, so it must be)
10. When & where was your first kiss? In September? 1995 on the lift up to the Alpine Slide. He asked me in Swedish, and then "showed" me what it meant.
11. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple? be together in the same room
12. Do you have any children? yes, 3 adorable kids: Mitchell, Austin, Rachel
13. Does he have any hidden talents? He is good at everything. We went Ice Skating. He was good. Me not so much. Racketball, tennis, dancing. He kicks my trash at Dance Dance Revolution. And he's a pretty good singer.
14. How old is he? 36
15. Who said I love you first? I think he did. And he's told me almost everyday since.
16. What is his favorite music? alternative
17. What do you admire most about him? His ability to forgive and get over things quickly.
18. What is his favorite color? green
19. Will he read this? yes, and then he will ask me where is the post about our vacation?

Beware: monster post

2008-09-21T16:06:00.000-06:00

So much has happened in the last month that I am just going to Monster Post and get it over with. Just be patient.
We'll start with my cousin Heidi's reception:

Matthew, Aunt Teri, Steve, Mandi, Bryce, Heidi, David, and Ed.

It was great to see Heidi. I think it has been at least 5 years if not more. She seems very happy, and I wish her all the best for their future together.

Rachel's first day of preschool was on September 2. She was so excited to go. So excited that she even let me blow-dry her hair. Doesn't she look so beautiful? Miss Tiffany is her pre-school teacher, and Rachel LOVES Miss Tiffany. I think it also helps that our neighbor, Havana is in her class, too. Once Rachel realizes that it's preschool day, she asks about a zillion times if it's time to go yet.

Thursday, September 4th was Danny and Jenny's wedding rehersal dinner, and boy does her family know how to throw a party! We had a yummy dinner, and then got down to business with the rehersing. The above picture is all of us standing in line practicing. I felt very honored that we got to be first. That sure was a lot of responsibility to set the timing for the whole processional. I also felt obligated to document every second of it, since I couldn't really take very many pictures of the actual ceremony.

I would classify John as a "Master Griller." As you can tell, he takes it very seriously.

You'll notice that all present are DRY at this time.

All that standing was just too much for Amanda. She had to take a break.

After we had done our pratice, we hung out on the patio chatting. I turned around at one point just in time to see two sets of legs...and shoes diving into the pool. I guess the pool has a pretty severe drop off, and Austin got too close and couldn't touch. So Mike and Tristan (Danny's friend) both jumped in to save him.

To their credit, they both had cell phones and wallets still on their persons while in the pool.

Then, of course the wedding on Friday, September 5. We had such a great time. All the girls went up to Layton to get our hair and makeup done. It was a big party in the bathroom. Rachel especially loved it. Amanda was even sweet enough to paint her fingernails and toenails. Then we all got dressed and headed to have our pictures taken at the Victorian. I think we got some great shots. Then off to the point for the ceremony. The Point was beautiful, and thankfully there was a cloud over the sun so the girls did not get blinded. Then dinner (the food was SO good) and dancing. I especially loved watching Rachel and Austin. Rachel danced harder and more than anyone...I would venture to say even more than Jenny. Austin was a little stinker. We tried to get him to dance with me, or even Kyra, or some other girls that were so cute, but he said he already had his dance partner - Jenny.

Rachel and Daddy

Rachel and Grandpa Kevin

Sunday, September 7: Black family dinner. Always a fun time getting together with brothers and sisters and cousins. I just had to capture a picture of the Pong basement, and the boys all playing each other.

September 12-13: Time out for Women in Logan. Amie, Becca, Mandi and Megan went up to Logan to a conference (kind of like Education week, or EFY for adults). It was really great. We had a speaker the first night that referenced "down is up and up is down" one too many times, and so that was a fun running joke for the rest of our time up there. Kenneth Cope sang some songs.
Jenny Oaks Baker played her violin. She is amazing.
We stayed up talking until 2 in the morning. It was a fun bonding time. I hope we can do more girls' nights in the future.
More Kenneth Cope. He has some really beautiful songs. One thing he said that really touched me was that if we had any idea of our potential, and how our Father in Heaven looks at us, we would treat ourselves and all those around us differently. It would be life changing for everyone.

Sunday, September 14: Mitchell's first Court of Honor. He got his Boy Scout Badge. There was a beautiful Falcon that flew the awards up to the front for the boys awards.

Saturday, September 20: I attended a graveside service for baby David Stanley Smith. He was stillborn on Friday morning after his umbilical cord was pinched. The ceremony was beautiful. And hopefully comforting to Amanda and Kevin. Kevin's dad reminded us that we have learned that these precious souls join us to gain a body and are too pure to remain in this wicked world. It is heartbreaking, but also a comfort to know that Kevin and Amanda will get to raise this spirit in the millenium, and all will be restored. I feel honored and privileged to know Kevin and Amanda and know that their faith will carry them through this trial in their lives.

8-26-08: Later that day

2008-08-28T15:55:00.006-06:00

We had quite the fun filled day on Tuesday. After all the kids came home from school, we headed to Outback for Mitchell and Rachel's birthday dinner. Mitchell picked Outback, and it's a good thing Rachel agreed with him. Then after dinner, we headed off to pack meeting, where Mitchell received a bunch of activity pins (to bring his total to 14 out of 20), and his Arrow of Light.

We then headed home for Zucchini Bread Muffins (in leiu of cake). Mitchell got probably what will be classified as one of the greatest present of all time; 3 lbs of pepperoni..just for him.

Also, Rachel got some 3-D Chalk from Kyra and Brad, so Kyra helped Rachel decorate out driveway. This is only a portion of the artistic abilities of my offspring... but mainly Kyra.

And the obligatory picture of Austin and Jenny. For those of you who don't know, when Danny dies, he's going to marry Jenny.

8-26-08: Austin's first day of 1st grade

2008-08-28T15:47:00.003-06:00

We are so excited that Austin is in school all day long. He so needs the structure; I think he thrives on it. His first day of first grade was actually a day later than Mitchell's because they had all the first graders meet their teachers, and not have everyone going crazy on the first day. Austin's teacher is Mrs. Francom, and I think they will be a good match. He sits in the front of the class, and I think that will be a good match as well.

I love this picture of the first graders at our bus stop: Elizabeth, Austin, Halle, and Wynnie. So cute.

8-25-08: Rachel out like a light

2008-08-28T15:43:00.005-06:00

I just had to post this picture of Rachel. It was about 9 pm, and she was bushed after a long, hard 4th birthday. I love how her mouth is open, and her little foot is hanging off the bed. There have been times when I've gone in to check on her, and she's got her head in the wall, and the rest of her body hanging off the bed because she's horizontal. Silly, Rachel.

8-25-08: Mitchell's first day of school

2008-08-28T15:39:00.003-06:00

Mitchell's first day of 6th grade was on Monday. Can you believe how grown up he looks? We left to the bus stop at 7:50am just to make sure we were the first ones there. Sure enough..we were by about a half hour. It was great to have some time to just chat. I counted the number of kids at the bus stop, and we are up to 18. That's crazy!

8-22-08: Sari's Wedding

2008-08-28T15:11:00.012-06:00

Last Friday I "surprised" the kids by visiting Kyra and Brad in Provo, and then going to Cousin Sari's wedding. Austin said it was the best surprise EVER (although his whining ALL THE WAY THERE indicates he does not like surprises), but Mitchell said it was a lame surprise. That's ok because it was mainly for Austin anyway...and Rachel liked it because of the princess wedding dress.
A little history: back in June, we had the Black family reunion. Austin discovered Sari there. He wrote her a sweet note that said I love you, and made her a bracelet. He's quite the ladies man. I'm sure at one point he may have told her that he would marry her if McKell died. He just does that. Hence the trip down to Springville.
One thing I really loved about the reception is that they had cotton candy and home made ice cream, which they made there in small batches with liquid nitrogen. So cool.

This is right after Austin discovered where we were. He carefully arranged himself to be blocking Mckell out of the picture, and he's in McKell's place.

Look how gorgeous Sari is! Austin was thrilled to have his picture with her

This is Austin in line for the second time. He wanted to see Sari again.

And he loved the wedding video. He even surmised that they got married at the Salt Lake Temple. I love that he recognized it from our little trip there earlier in the year.

This is his devious look. He thought he was so tricky going through again.

Sari graciously invited Austin to stand in line with her for a little while. I though t that was such a sweet thing to do. I don't want to imply that I advocate his marrying a girl 20 years older, but I love that his little sweet side comes out when he tries to think of things to do that they would like. His future wife is going to love how loving he is.

I love Austin and McKell are holding hands in this picture.

I also love that Austin was trying to be helpful, and is holding Sari's bouquet in this picture.

He was also trying to be helpful by filling water glasses.
Thanks, Sari and McKell for being such great examples for Austin to follow!

Happy 4th Birthday, Rachel

2008-08-25T22:03:00.005-06:00

The little princess turned 4 today. She is such a little sweetheart. She has the cutest expressions, and gives good loves. She likes to give a running narrative of her day, so we always know where she is...unless it's 6 in the morning and she's at a neighbor's house.

Jack Rocks!!!

2008-08-19T22:32:00.004-06:00

Mandi and I went to the Jack Johnson concert at the USANA Amphitheater and it was absolutely fantastic. I have always been a fan of his, but I think lately I have started to like his music even more. We had great seats (not that we got to use them much as almost everyone stood for most of it). He played about three different guitars and then strummed some lovely melodies on his ukulele as well. His right-hand man that played the piano, accordion, flute and some weird harmonica-type thing. It was great and I am planning on going back to see him anytime he comes to town.

Day at the Zoo and a new Austin story

2008-08-19T22:23:00.004-06:00

I am not sure why, but I can't post under myself (Michael). But anyway, we went to the zoo and are trying to get as many things done this week before the kids go back to school next week (Yeah!!!!!). Here are a couple of photos. Also, I wanted to add an Austinism that cracked me up. In the van the other day he slipped and here is what I heard. "Didn't hurt...pause, pause. Well, maybe hurt a little bit...pause, pause. Yep, knee is starting to cramp. The kid is just a constant amusement in our lives.

fathers and sons

2008-08-16T16:47:00.002-06:00

Austin, Mitchell and I just got back from the fathers and sons held at Jordanelle this year. It was a grand time by all except for the one mile hike in with a little handcart. Yes, with all our gear which we had packed for car camping. Luckily, to go out we had the rangers open a gate for all of us to drive to within about 50 yards. We then went boating on our bishop's boat and had a lot of fun. Mitchell was especially good on the tube and even survived some attempts at a "death biscuit" when he went with me.

Latest boo-boo

2008-08-16T16:45:00.002-06:00

Austin came home from our neighbors after a little scuffle with his brother resulted in a battle of ear versus table. The table won. Here is the result of eight stitches.

Family "Camping" Trip

2008-08-10T13:11:00.002-06:00

The annual Black family camping trip turned into a day in the canyon this year. Due to: choose one or many— rain/weather/sickness/lack of desire to be dirty, wet and uncomfortable for two days, it resulted in nobody taking advantage of the campsite overnight, and only an eight hour excursion to the site for games and activities. Even the normal walk around Silver Lake at Brighton was canceled thanks to Mother Nature's fury. The lunch at the cafe was fun, and obviously Grandpa enjoyed the time with the grandkids. The kids passed the time trying to catch squirrels or in the case of Mitchell, trying to start a fire by either hitting two rocks together, rubbing two sticks, or later placing a stick in the charcoal for dinner. It was a fun time, and maybe next year we will actually stay over a night— maybe.

Swimming lessons

2008-08-10T13:07:00.002-06:00

Austin and Rachel just finished a session of swimming lessons with mixed reviews. Rachel's teacher Dixie said that she has no fear of the water and is ready to move to level two. Austin's teacher Spencer said it would probably be best if he stayed in level two. They both had fun, however, and it was a good experience overall.

Is it really August, already?

2008-08-08T09:31:00.002-06:00

Well, the months are just flying by. My first "baby" will be 11 this month, and my last baby will be 4. Where have these years gone?

Austin is his usual funny self. Most recently he was saying the prayer for dinner, and said, "Bless everyone in the whole world that they won't be like the devil, your worst enemy." He's so great, I just hope I can remember these days when he's a teenager, and trying to get away with everything.

In other news, Mike and I started training yesterday for a sprint triathalon which we hope to complete in January. Think we're crazy? We do, too. No, really Mike's friend and fellow Des News-er, Jody trained for one, and had great results. It's a twenty-two week program, that builds up VERY gradually. We swam 100 yards in the pool, and walked for 20 minutes yesterday, and today I rode 2 miles on the bike. Hopefully, we will get in great shape. Sadly, I was in my best shape 10 years ago after Mitchell was born. And Mike's not any better...well actually he's in better shape than I am. I thought I was going to need oxygen after my swim! if anyone else wants to try the program, check it out here.

We're off to the annual Black camping trip.

24th of July Fireworks

2008-07-29T09:06:00.003-06:00

The 24th of July is the day we celebrate the Mormon pioneers first entering the Salt Lake Valley. Hence, it is a holiday where fireworks are allowed. Yay for fireworks. Mike sets off the rest of last year's fireworks for the Black kids...and the Chamberlain's.

Mitchell gets his WEBELOS 7-22-08

2008-07-29T08:39:00.006-06:00

We're so proud of Mitchell. I, I mean, he worked really hard to be able to get this. Good job, Mitchell.

Girls Night 7-15-08

2008-07-21T15:43:00.002-06:00

For girl's night, the girls in our neighborhood went to Rumbi. It was so much fun. We just laughed and talked about our husbands, and had a good time in general.

Natasha and baby Emmett, Amanda, Quinn and baby Norah, Jeanine, Annette, Nikki

Independence Dinner and Kids Sleep-Over, July 4

2008-07-06T18:38:00.005-06:00

The cousins got to sleep over at Grandpa and Grandma's house for the fourth, but first we all got to have dinner. It was a yummy dinner with chips and salsa, hamburgers, hot dogs, beans, salads, yummy watermelon and strawberries. The kids played fun games with grandma and grandpa while all the adults hung out and talked.

Rachel's all ready to go to sleep. Even in the middle of all the kids playing. She was so excited.

Ryan is still smiling after 2 hamburgers, 2 hot dogs, beans, chips, some dessert pizza and two helpings of grandpa's famous peach ice cream.

Murray Pool, part 2, July 4

2008-07-06T18:30:00.005-06:00

Riverton Parade, July 3

2008-07-06T18:20:00.006-06:00

It's always fun to have family get-togethers. The cousins especially have fun being together. A big thanks to Becca for reserving our spot, and an even bigger thanks to her for choosing a shady side!!

Adam, Porter, and Miles before the firetrucks came by (Porter DOES NOT like the noise of the firetrucks).

The Sheriffs: this picture doesn't show it, but one of them rode by standing on his motorcycle seat. I'm not sure if that was such a good example, though!

Rachel loved all the pretty girls.

Austin loved the clown on the cool bike.

Rachel and Ellie

Connor and Mitchell

Blackie Black Black

2008-07-06T17:55:00.003-06:00

We have had Blackie now for a while. There is a big debate as to when we got her. I think we have narrowed it down to 2001 or 2002. Every year we let her grow out a good coat so she doesn't get too cold outside in the winter. This year we were a bit late in getting her hair cut, but I think she's pretty happy about it. For a few days after she gets her haircut, she rubs her face on the ground, and anywhere she can. She's a great dog, and the kids really love her.

Game night turns into 2 game days, June 28 and 29

2008-07-06T17:43:00.006-06:00

We had a game night at our house with Danny & Jenny and Kyra & Brad. (Thanks to Jenny for taking a picture of all of us.)

We played Carcassone, and made a nice big square, with Brad getting 6 of the 8 cloisters. And Hand & Foot, which we learned is a variation of Canasta. Brad was getting so frustrated while we were explaining the game, but once we started to play, we had a great time. Brad kept trash talking (sort of) about "Cleaning House" and "Closing up shop" (phrases that were said a minimum of 50 times each). Danny and Jenny finally won after a good two hours. It was so late when we finally got finished that Kyra and Brad slept over...so we had Game Day on Sunday afternoon as well. Kyra and I are the queens of Hand and foot since we pulverized Brad and Mike in 3, yes, three different games. One game we were so far ahead that the boys did not even let us count our points. I call that poor losing.

Rachel practicing her card holding. She just loves to be with Kyra and Brad.

Rachel practicing her letters and writing everyone's name. And then drawing pictures of everyone.

Treats after dinner.

Swimming at Murray Park Pool, June 26, part 1

2008-07-06T17:33:00.009-06:00

We bought a punch pass to go to the pool. The kids really love going to Murray Pool and it makes for a good time waster/get out of the house/cool off from the heat activity.
Rachel just has no fear in the water. She loves to try to "swim", and already goes under water without plugging her nose.

There is a fun waterslide that the kids love to go down. They probably get more exercise from running up those steps than playing in the pool.

The kids like to play leap frog.

Black Family Reunion, June 21

2008-07-06T17:01:00.022-06:00

The annual Black family reunion is so fun. While it is in the midst of summer, and it will inevitably be very hot and sticky, it's always a blast. We started off at Classic Skating in Orem. Mitchell did surprisingly well, Austin had his skates on for about 5 minutes, as well as Rachel. We went once around the track (Rachel and I), and I decided that I am not Michelle Kwon on wheels.

Surprisingly, Mitchell recovered and did not fall after this picture was taken.
So, once we got our skates off, we had other fun. It's great to visit and catch up, hold babies, and eat, eat, and eat.

After skating was over and we ate lunch, we headed over to Scera Park for more afternoon visting and games.

Rachel and Cousin Janelle playing HillBilly Golf. Rachel played this for about 45 minutes, and Janelle was so good to play with her.

Cousin Andy set up a bottle rocket station that kept all the kids occupied for a long time. Here is Andy and McKell setting up some rockets.

The kids even made their own rockets out of paper that did really well...for the most part.

There are always fun crafts. We made bead bracelets, and cute cards. Even Rachel has quite a knack for esthetics.

Always fun card games and snacks.

And after a long day, the fun bath. The kids took one together for probably the last time. As you can see, it's a little too much skin.

Letterboxing, June 9

2008-07-06T16:44:00.008-06:00

So I was reading my friend Stacey's blog a while ago, and she talked about a letterboxing adventure they had as a family. It sounded like a good idea. I was desperate for a Family Home Evening idea. So I just did a little internet research (Really, where would we be without internet?), and presto, I have a plan. I went to letterboxing.org and found a couple that would be easy for the kids. Got my neighbor Annette and her kids on board, and away we went. We went to Murray Park and learned about Chief Wasatch (Utah history and FHE in one activity? Awesome!).

while on the trail to find the letter box for Chief Wasatch, we went to look at the very large ship guns that are at the entrance to Murray Park. While we were looking at them, a gentleman came up to us and explained the history of the guns, and a little more about them since there was not a plaque explaining them. It was great to hear how passionate he was about the history of the guns. Double history lesson!

Found it!!

It was still early in the evening, so we decided to see if we could find another. We went to Wheeler Farm, and did not have any luck finding the letterbox we intended, but we found another one.

Mitchell and Ashton

I love Austin's outfit!!

Birthdays

2008-06-15T11:32:00.000-06:00

Do you recall going to family parties and watching the birthday child open the presents? Were you a little jealous? Did you want to help? Well, I'm not sure we have quite figured out how to restrain all the children from "helping". It was Win and Emma's Birthdays, while we were in St. George, so the kids "helped" open the presents. See if you can figure out who the birthday kids really are.

Games

2008-06-15T11:26:00.000-06:00

The other part of St. George we love is playing games. I believe Randy won this game of cards.

swimming

2008-06-15T11:16:00.001-06:00

The part of St. George everyone looks forward to...SWIMMING. We especially love the kiddie pool as it is always warmer than the other pools.

A Whole Lot of Us

2008-06-15T11:11:00.000-06:00

Pretty good Black shot, minus the parents and Liz.

Rachel holding Porter

2008-06-15T11:08:00.000-06:00

Our kids all love Porter. Austin says he will teach Porter to do all the things he can do (which is especially cute). I'm not sure if Rachel thinks Porter is still a baby, of if she just loves him and wants to be near him. As you can see, Porter is 3 and is a healthy boy!

Swan Attack

2008-06-15T11:03:00.000-06:00

We heard there was a defensive swan at Sunbrook Golf Course, and of course the kids would want to be a part of it. Thank goodness no one was attacked, but stayed a safe distance away. These pictures were just too cute!

Pedicures

2008-06-15T11:01:00.000-06:00

Since the boys get to golf, it's only fair if the girls get to do fun things in St. George. On Thursday, we got massages, and on Friday, we got pedicures at Cosmo Nails. We love to be pampered!

Pefect...for mom

2008-06-15T10:51:00.000-06:00

Tom's deli

2008-06-15T10:49:00.001-06:00

We love going to Tom's when we are in St. George. We had a yummy lunch. I am not sure how much the other patrons like it when we come as we take up about half of the seats, but we have a great time, especially all the kids.