I Love to See the Temple

Julia spent an afternoon a few weeks ago with her activity day group

at the Provo Temple.

I've got some cute pictures of this one in front of all the temples that

we've visited or lived near.

It's hard to believe that she is only two years away from getting to attend the temple for the first time!

The Curse of the Retainer

is still alive and well with Hilary. Even the orthodontist's receptionist thinks so.

The entire staff knows us quite well. I believe we've set their office record for the number of times a retainer has either gone missing, been destroyed, or severely contorted. This time the culprit is a bedroom door being left open (oops dad) and the white animal pictured that is smart enough to not destroy the appliance, but dumb enough to mold the metal portion into unrecognizable shapes. I believe that Emily can drive to the ortho office with her eyes closed and that they recognize my voice when I muster the courage to call.

This office is SO nice to us! Just when I think this is the last time I'll have to call them about a missing or deformed retainer. I'm not holding my breath...

Another Weekly Post

Time flies when you're having fun!

My posts are becoming increasingly routine and sparse.

We all have something to write about though, even when it is day to day life.

Julia and the other drivers in the family are thrilled that early morning choir has finished for the school year!

The two pictured above and below interviewed and received

job offers at Seven Peaks Waterpark this summer. It's the one place that will hire kids under 16--they are following in Emily's footsteps. They know what they're in for, but figured it would be good experience and liked the idea of expanding their savings accounts.

Dan hit the three year mark as being bishop and this weekend

made changes to the bishopric. I can't believe how fast the time has gone.


I survived my gum grafting surgery...except they didn't warn me of the
swelling I would have afterwards. This picture illustrates the before.
Can't wait to do this again in January!

And last but not least, this gorgeous blue-eyed girl is looking for a job!

She has applied at several places, some of which have told her to inquire after she turns 18

(still several weeks away).
I am sure about a few things,

that she'll land a great job and that she'll tell me how much she hates this picture!

Young Women Recognition Night

Last week was our stake's Young Women's Recognition Night where they honor all the girls who have completed their personal progress during the last year.

It was extra special because Dan got to present her with her flower as her bishop and dad.

We even color coordinated--not planned but I guess it looks that way.

I managed to remember the camera but forgot a memory card for it.

I'm glad Dan had his phone handy to get a few pictures.

Although Hannah did feel it was somewhat of a "punishment" to have to give a short talk and set up a display, she did a great job and she is finished!

I think next year we'll be doing this again, but with Hilary.

Way to go Hannah!

Spring Break

Spring Break this year was very different around here.

For one, we were home all week, which was actually quite nice.

Lots of late nights and sleeping in occurred.

Emily is behind the camera again...at least she got a picture of her feet.

I kind of broke up with my camera...even got a new zoom lens that I have yet to use.

I didn't even get pictures of Easter Sunday, but we did consume a tasty meal with an assortment of family in attendance.

Julia discovered (again) her love of edamame and neighborhood night games.

She even completed her service hours for her Wasatch Patch she is earning at school.

Hilary motivated and helped me clean out and replenish our 72 hour First Aid Kit and now we move onto the actual 72 hour kits. I try to do this every other year, so if we ever need them, the clothes in them will actually fit the kids.

I got a Mac and I'm trying to figure out in the ins and outs of it all. The kids have it mastered of course.

Emily and I worked on compiling her first resume and is in pursuit of part-time employment.

Hannah disappeared for hours at a time playing Top Spin. Dan and I are just happy that the kids are actually using the basement.

And it was reinforced to me, once again, that I'm getting older. I visited the periodontist for the first time and I have to have 2 gum grafting surgeries--yuck! In addition, I added a pair of glasses to the mix when needed. The doc recommends a Lasik "touch up" in a few years...sigh.

All in all, it was so nice to be home with the hubby and all the kiddos!

Today's Theme: Dancing

Tradition beckoned at Wasatch today for all the 4th grade boys and girls.

These two girls kicked up their heels to a variety of dances.

So fun to watch and be a part of... I got to do the bunny hop...

Hilary and Hannah got to do the hokey poky.

They surprised me when they spontaneously walked from their school to Wasatch

to watch the program.

And tonight...Emily...I mean Lois Lane...
is headed out on a fun filled date with Clark Kent.

Good times!

No Joke...

*Woke up today to snow everywhere. If you have to stand outside for more than 5 minutes you will freeze even if you're bundled up. I know because I got to freeze my tail off early this morning in the carpool lane of the school.

*The family and I were supposed to be on an airplane this morning headed to our nation's capitol for spring break next week. I can imagine the smell and beauty of the cherry blossoms we will be missing and the near 80 degree weather that is forecasted. I've experienced every season there except spring. Trip aborted due to husband's new job and scheduling conflicts.

*You are able, if you are patient, persistent and a smooth talker of the Samoan language, to reserve and confirm hotel accommodations in Western Samoa.

*Kohl's stays open until 10pm every weekday night AND they sell Superman T-shirts...but only in insanely large sizes. Emily and I learned this late last night when she finally decided she and her MORP date would be Clark Kent and Lois Lane for the celebrity-couple themed dance (which is tomorrow). Miraculously, we found a black and blue Superman T-shirt, in a normal size, that will do the job.

*I witnessed three April Fool's pranks pulled off at once. All in a fifth grade classroom...it was classic. I think the teacher deserves an Academy Award.

*I actually have an afternoon to myself...alone...no appointments...no errands...no children dashing to and fro.

So now it's time to for me to go!