Some rain

I was really glad to see rain today. However, Lauklan was not. He was supposed to go with his Tiger Cub group on a bike ride and it was rescheduled for Thursday because of the rain. I felt so bad for him as he cried and cried.

I could have cried myself after finishing my cycle class today. It was Jeff teaching again and I now know that he is out there to absolutely kill me! I love it!

Busy

This was quite the busy day.

I got the kids to school and I went to work. Monday is my 'long' day so I worked until 2:40. I started picking up kids immediately after that and then we were into the homework blitz!

Following homework, it was time for some gym fun. I sat in the sauna and did a great cycle class! I am really enjoying cycling lately. It makes me feel like I am getting something accomplished.

We hurried home after the gym and all of the kids got baths and showers while I made 6, yes, 6 cans of spaghetti o's and ravioli. Really? Six cans?

The kids were hurried off to bed and then I hurried off to Publix to get some more food. I wonder why, right?

While in Publix, this person was starting to invade my 'bubble' and I was going to have to take them out, but before I did that, I saw that it was Debbie Clayton. Whew!

She finished my rounds through the aisles and then we went our separate ways.

Upon arriving home, Chris got the groceries out of the car while I put them away and then I scurried off to bed.

Also

We had family council before church this morning. We're doing pretty well with these. I hope I didn't just mess us up telling that. But anyway, guess what the topics of discussion were?

1. Importance of partaking and passing the sacrament.
2. Obedience (shocker, I know.)
3. Helping each other.
4. Keeping the Sabbath Day holy.

Just trying to make clear here, and remind myself, that repetition isn't always that bad.

Mighty spirits, I'll tell ya!

We had a pretty good day in Primary Land today.

However, I was caught off guard by one thing.

When it was time for our talk, the little Sunbeam looked at me and said, "I'm so excited!" I told him that I knew and that I was excited too. This was the most prepared Sunbeam that I have EVER seen. He gave his talk like he was 10. I'm not kidding! You could tell that he had practiced and he needed very little help from his mother. I was amazed. He, of course, ended by giving his testimony. ALL BY HIMSELF! It was short and sweet and power-packed with the spirit. He got me when he said, "I know that God loves me".

I know that there wasn't a dry eye in the room from the adults when he was done and Chris was even in there.

That is one of the MANY reasons that I feel blessed to be able to serve the children as their Primary President. That is why, I know too, that God loves ME. I have learned more from the children then they have learned from me, I am sure.

Magic Kingdom with LOTS of familiar faces

Why can't I get a good picture of myself anymore?

Brennan and Chris messing around.

Michelle and I. Another, not so good shot of me. :(

We finally ended up at Magic Kingdom today around 2:30. Chris had Scout training from 8:30 - 12:30 so he went there and I took the kids to the gym. I took a cycle class and the instructor worked us really hard. I kind of wondered how I would make it through the rest of the day. I did thought, thank goodness!
When we got inside the park, the parade was just starting and Aislinn and Greyson LOVE parades, so we watched it and then headed to do the Jungle Cruise and then Pirates.

We finally met up with Grandma, Bronko, Aunt Carolyn and Bay.

After about 20 or so texts, we also met up with Michelle, Will and CJ. It was one huge group!

We went and did Big Thunder Railroad then Tom Sawyer's island. After the island, we headed to the Haunted Mansion then it was time to eat. We ate and then secured our spots right in front of the castle for the parade and fireworks. I looked over at Michelle right before the parade and got kind of nostalgic. I said, "We came here together as kids, now we're here together with our kids". I thought it was really neat.

We didn't get out of the park until around 10:30 and come to find out the house alarm kept going off and the police had to come check twice. We're not really sure what was going on there.

However, we all got home safely, but tired.

Not much going on

Except that the date I had tonight will be one I remember forever! Good and not so good there...

Great read!

I won't comment about how I look here because its not appropriate for the blog. But, I wanted to include this picture because I am glad we took it to help us remember our time together.

If you want to roll on the floor laughing about my Time Out For Women weekend, read this!

Seriously, it is the funniest thing I have read in a long time!

I love you, Debbie Clayton!

Steeple placement

Chris and I went to see the steeple get put on the new Stake Center today. It was a mini ward activity and I enjoyed watching it. It was even prettier than I imagined.




Do you see the wings that the steeple has? There are tiny wisps of clouds going up from the left and right of the steeple. Neat!


A beautiful day for a beautiful event!

Sweating

Doesn't it feel good?

I just LOVE, love, love how it feels to leave the gym and know that you have worked really hard!

Ten more pounds to go...

Family Home Evening

Tonight, we discussed obedience and getting along.

I bet you're thinking that we just discussed that.

We did, we are still discussing it, and we will be discussing it again!

Linger Longer

We all stayed after church today for a linger longer activity. That is where you bring a dish to share and you have a pot luck with the ward following all the meetings.

There was a nice turnout and I was really glad that I didn't have to worry about having to make dinner right after we got home from church.

I always like not having to worry about cooking...

Time Out For Women, Part Two

This morning started off bright and early at 5:45 when Kenney apparently set the alarm to go off. Not good, considering I didn't go to sleep until 1:30...

We headed to Burger King for a quick breakfast then Debbie and I were off to the convention center and got there by 8.

Oh yeah, I purchased another shelf last night from Shelf Reliance. I really am looking forward to getting it. We have learned so much about our food storage since I got the first one last year. I learned that i don't have nearly as much food as I thought I do and I learned how quickly or not so quickly I use my food.

Anyway, we looked around at the displays and just chatted with people while we waited for it to start.

The first speaker talked about mom stuff and I can't remember anything specific right now, but I did enjoy it.

Hillary Weeks did all of the musical presentations today and she is always amazing!

We were talked to about the scriptures and applying them to our daily lives from the one male speaker. He's on BYU tv round table discussions all the time.

We learned about the difference between sin and weaknesses and I found that to be very enlightening. I learned a lot from that talk.

In the end, we were talked to by a sister, Chris Belcher, who is blind. Her story of courage and faith was amazing. Debbie and I both commented that they saved the best for last.

When it all finished, Debbie and I went to the Mall of Mellinia to eat at The Cheesecake Factory. We had a blast. I also wanted to do a little shopping, but I didn't see anything I wanted, that I could afford. So, we left without any clothes, but full bellies and extra food for later.

Chris took the kids to Animal Kingdom today and we both got home around the same time. I was impressed that he did that with all the kids and no help. WAY TO GO!

Time Out For Women, Part One

Debbie Clayton and I headed to the Orange County Convention Center around 3:45 this afternoon. Our first stop was to meet up with Kenney and her group at the temple.

Of course, it is Time Out For Women weekend, so what did we have to do first? Eat! We went to a real Brazilian buffet restaurant and had a very, let me call it, interesting meal.

Next stop, convention center for the Friday evening session. It was GREAT!

Hillary Weeks and Michael McLean were the musical performers and I really like both of them.

We had a talk given by Chieko Okazaki that used to be in the Relief Society General Presidency. She talked about teaching correct principles and then letting the people govern themselves. It was really good and she used examples of how Joseph Smith did it and how she used it when she taught second grade.

The other speaker was Mark Mabry who is a photographer. He shot the Reflections of Christ pictures. They are amazing and if you haven't seen them, I strongly recommend that you do. He had an amazing testimony building story and he really touched my heart.

We got back to the hotel around 11:30 after Debbie and I ran through Checkers and I got a large fry and an apple pie! What was I thinking? Eating that junk first of all and then on top of it being junk, eating it so late! Crazy!

Debbie and I didn't fall asleep until around 1:30. Not good to get the day started early.

I need to get ready

I need to get ready for my outing tomorrow. I was told that I needed to pack by Debbie Clayton. I guess I forgot that.

Chris and I had a nice lunch together, just the two of us today. We ate at Sonny's and afterward I was hating life because I ate WAY TOO MUCH!

I went to the gym and sat in the sauna for a while and then went to a cycle class. It was really good, and yes, I did 'get there'. Every time the instructor asks that I just laugh. Am I the only one that thinks like I do?

We came home and I made stroganoff and broccoli for dinner. One of the kids favorite meals.

Right now I am listening to Aislinn call me and it is VERY irritating!

I think I ate too much for dinner too...

Electronics Merit Badge

Brennan earned his electronics merit badge last night. He had been working on it for a few months with Brother Brooks. They had to build a system with an amplifier and make it work. I saw them putting wires together and all that good stuff.

Brennan really enjoyed it and his thing worked. Brother Brooks even quizzed the kids when they were done and I thought it was really neat that they learned so much.

I am glad that the boys are in scouts. They get to learn so many neat things that they wouldn't necessarily do if it weren't for scouts.

Way to go Brennan!

Feeling a little lost

I didn't have a cell phone all day today. I am supposed to get a new one tomorrow except I am worried that I won't actually get it because I am supposed to be there to sign for it at the house and I can't just sit around all day waiting for it.

I got to go to a baby shower tonight for Kristen and Ashlea. It was nice to be there with just the girls and not worry about the kids.

However, I always worry about what is going on with the kids while I am not there. I know that I need to stop that. Chris is quite capable and always does fine with them. It is not the way I would do it all of the time, but the kids are fine.

Why am I such a worry freak? Why do I worry that my house is supposed to be spotless at all times? Didn't I listen to President Monson when he said to let the fingerprints go?

I'm doing better, I must say. I don't vacuum EVERY day anymore. I have the kids do it.

Just kidding, but they do have to vacuum about every other day.

I'm a freak.

I know.

Uneventful

I had a pretty normal day.

Dropped kids off at school.

Went to work.

Picked kids up from school.

Helped them with homework.

Watched them swim for a little.

Went to the gym.

Came home to get baths and showers and eat a quick dinner.

Put kids in bed.

Crashed myself.

(And my cell phone officially died today too. I'm off to Verizon tomorrow morning for a new one. It won't even turn on now!)

I had a thought and I lost it!

I had something come to me today at church that I wanted to blog about tonight so I wouldn't forget.

Well, I forgot!

Typical

Was it that the topic in Primary today was on obeying your parents and I struggled teaching that to the kids because our last 2 family councils have been about that?

I'm thinking maybe it was, but I'm not sure.

EPCOT

We got up this morning and headed to EPCOT for some fun.

We heard the American Singers at the USA pavilion. I just love them, the are SO talented! The used Lauklan out of the crowd to sing to and he got redder than I have EVER seen. It was really cute.

We did the Mission Mars ride, well, all of us but Aislinn did because she didn't meet the height requirement. Chris went first with the other 4 while Aislinn and I got some popcorn that tasted really, really good. When Chris was done, he wanted me to go on it, so I took Brennan and Kerstyn with me. We did the easier version of the ride because I'm a wimp!

We also went to the Nemo ride and looked all around the sea exhibits. I learned there that my children are like manatees. They eat constantly!

He had to head home early so Chris and I could go to the Garrett's going away party. We had fun there except for the fact that I took my favorite chips and dip to share and I was a glutton! What is wrong with me? I'm going to be paying for that all week!

It was a busy, but really good day.

That was venting!

Just so you all know that I am not losing my mind, totally, I was venting yesterday. I'm okay now, thanks for listening.

Let's get positive here. I'm going to list 5 things that are good:

1. I am looking forward to date night tonight.

2. It is Friday and that means that tomorrow is 'play day'. We're going to head off to Disney early and come home around 5. (Yes, Disney has its stressful moments, but overall the experience is pleasant and we are all together as a family.)

3. The weather is getting warmer which means that the children can utilize the pool and expend some energy. Translation, easier for me.

4. I'm continuing to lose weight. I only have 10 more pounds to get to my goal. Yes, my goal has changed, and probably will continue to be adapted. But, for the first time since I started having children, I am doing something about this baby weight that I have had for 12 years now. I've lost 18 pounds to date since right after Thanksgiving. Wahoo!

5. I know that I am loved by my Heavenly Father and others. I sometimes try to convince myself that I am not. However, I do know that I am loved by Him and I am eternally grateful for that. I'm not sure how you live life without know that.

I feel better.

Is there something wrong with me?

I am becoming concerned that I am doing something wrong with raising the kids. Why do I keep hearing of the problems that they are having with their friends and each other? Is it normal for them to be constantly bickering amongst each other?

They argue verbally with one another ALL THE TIME and yesterday Lauklan and Kerstyn had a physical fight at the gym! They smile when the other is being reprimanded or does something that might be embarrassing. They don't seem to support one another, just make jabs at each other when the get the chance. Very rarely do I hear them build one another up or help each other in a time of need.

What am I doing here to make them act this way? I just don't get it.

Swimming, Scouts and Activity Days

It was early release today for the kids and they came home and jumped right into that pool! I can't believe that they are actually swimming in it. I thought that they would jump in and right back out, but they don't!

After about an hour of swimming, we loaded up and went to the gym. Then rushed home with McDonalds and got Brennan and Chris off to Apopka for scouts. We waited just a few minutes for Natalie to arrive for me to take her and Kerstyn to the Garrett's to their Activity. They were to go in their pajamas and were painting and making prayer mats. They turned out really cute.

When I finished dropping off the girls, the youngest 3 kids and I stopped by Publix to pick up some prescriptions then home for super quick baths and in pajamas to head BACK out to pick up the girls.

Then bed for them. Then bed for me!

Well, you know what happens...

when the weather starts getting into the 80's.

We start swimming!
Greyson is SUPER brave!
So much excitement for Ooh-Rah!
Aislinn was a little timid at first, but right now, she's all in it!
My fish aka Greyson.
We have to go down the slide!

My cell phone has a mind of its own.

I don't know what is going on with my cell phone but it does what it wants. It calls people, turns on and off and does just whatever it pleases. Not sure why.

I called Verizon, but they wanted me to go Sanford and have it looked at. I don't have time for that. After a while, it started to work again. Then, this morning, it has now decided to not let me adjust the volume.

Whatever!

Other than that, the kids are doing well. Kerstyn has FCAT testing this week. Homework is lighter because of it and that frees me up some. I like that.

I look forward to Time Out For Women in a few weeks. Just as important as the event itself, I look forward to spending time with my friend Debbie Clayton. I hope we don't explode from eating too many Krispy Kreme doughnuts!

We need a recording contract!

I'm telling you what! These Eustis Ward Primary children deserve a record deal. Watch out American Idol contestants!

We sang Love Is Spoken Here today. It was AMAZING! Of course, it made me tear up again. They sounded like angels!

I sure do pray that they remember that feeling one day. I sure know that I will.

Hollywood Studios!

Okay, don't laugh, but I danced in the parade at Hollywood Studios! It was fun. I am SURE that I looked like a DORK, but it felt good. Even Brennan joined in.

Go Brennan!

Finishing up the YMCA song. It felt great to dance out in the street with Brennan. Sure hope I didn't look TOO crazy.

That LGM (Little Green Man) was really funny!

Waiting their turn. I used to love to jump rope. Can't do that anymore... :(

Brennan and Kerstyn jumping rope while we waited for the parade.

Waiting for the parade to start.

Grandma and Bronko joined us for a day of chaos, I mean fun. We were so glad that they did.

We had a great day. We stayed too long again, and had to endure fussing here and there, but overall, I believe that we all had a good time.

Birthday Dinner

Chris and I went out to dinner tonight. We ate at Ruth's Chris in Lake Mary and I loved every minute and bite! I call it my birthday dinner now, because I was trying to justify the expense.

Now, what else do I need to celebrate?

What a nice surprise!

A great sight to see! Reed (my brother). I haven't seen him in almost 2 years and as far as I am concerned, that is too long! He came down here for Bike Week with some friends and had the opportunity to come over here for lunch. Mom came over too. What a great belated birthday present.

Reed and I outside Chili's

Mom and Reed

Us again. I can remember some serious trouble that I used to get him into. He was always trying to get away with stuff and I would always tell on him.

The three of us!

It was a short but great visit! I am so thankful to have gotten the opportunity to spend time with both of them today.

Dentist day

I took all of the kids to Dr. Ingalls today for their 6 month checkups.

Everyone did well.

Nobody had cavities.

Success!

35!

It's been a busy year! Welcome 35. I never thought I would feel that way, but you know what, I'm ok with it. I think I actually like being 35. Bring it on!

Chris and I in New York City for our anniversary. 15 years of marriage.
January 2009 for Brennan's ordination to the priesthood. Wow, 35, 15 years of marriage and 5 kids. I've been busy.

I don't remember when, but sometime this year. Don't I look like I've been busy?

Kerstyn and I in January for her Terrific Kid ceremony.

In June with the two people that brought me into this world. Thank you! You are both truly amazing people and I love you more than you can ever know. I hope and pray that I make you proud.

I think that 35 will be even better than 34. I guess I'll see, like it or not!

Flat Stanley

Stanley played with Brennan and Kerstyn.

He even played house with Greyson and Aislinn.

Most importantly, Stanley and Lauklan did their homework together!

Lauklan has been working on Flat Stanley at school for a few weeks. He got to bring Stanley home to spend the afternoon and night with us. Those were a few shots of Stanley's adventures.

Thanks for coming to visit Stanley!

They can really sing!

I was leading the music in Primary today. Telling you that I love to do that would most likely be an understatement. We had about eleven or twelve kids there today, which is a few more than usual. But I'll tell you what, they sang like there were thirty five of them and the spirit was so strong! I looked up one time and even Chris was standing outside the door looking in. I asked him why later and he said that he had gone to the library down the hall and heard them singing so well that he thought he would just stop by.

That is why I LOVE serving in Primary. The children are just amazing!