Mom's Surprise

My family has this habit, or tradition, or planning trips to come and surprise another member of the family.  This has been done several times successfully, and other times, not so much (thanks to my mom falling and breaking her ankle, the Dr had told her not to fly, therefore canceling the plan)  Nevertheless, the scheming, planning and deceit is always fun to do.

This time, I got to help my mom pull it off!  She told me a couple months ago that she was coming out, the day AFTER Thanksgiving.  Thanksgiving week is also a big birthday week, and this year even more so with an 18th birthday, November 24 (my  niece Jordan) and a 16th Birthday on November 26 (my nephew Cody - also the day mom got here) 

So the lies and schemes started.... we had to get together FRIDAY November 26 for a combined family party... it was just the "ONLY" day it would work.  Mom had sent money to spring for some pizza, so I used that as my cover and told my sisters that Saturday just wouldn't do.  (tee hee)  So, I went to get my mom... and walked into my sister, Deb's house, with my mom ahead of me.

I wish I had a camera ready.  Jaws hit the floor, tears started flowing from the shock, surprise and gratitude that Mom was here! (sometimes mom's just make things better!!)  Mom had told Jordan that her birthday present would be late... HA HA - just hand delivered too!

I went to get the pizza's while everyone giggled and talked.  Pizza was eaten, Mom was snuggled.  Deb had bought a cake from our favorite Cake Shop (Sugarlips Cakery).  A split cake for both Jordan and Cody.  (It was almond flavored, with strawberry filling.  They make the best cakes!!) 

We spent the next week with mom... I got her most days since I am home, and Deb and Lisa work.  She split her nights between houses.  Mom, Lisa, Deb and I had lunch together one day.  We had lots of joint family time too!  It was a great visit.

Mom and Dad plan to retire next year (October-ish) They are getting ready for that endevour of their lives.  They have purchased (and are currently renting out) and home in Southern Utah that they will move into once they retire.  It will be so nice to have them 6 hours away, instead of across the country. 

We all missed my Dad on this trip.  He is swamped in a project that is close to deadline, so he couldn't surprise anyone this time.  Maybe next time!

Here are the Bday pics!!

Lots of candles... They each had the proper amount on "their own" side of their cake.  18+16= 34 (hey... so that's what my cake would have looked like this year if I did all my candles!!

LOVE this one... and all the SMOKE! LOL

Blow Out

My poor sweet Elliot.  Thursday started out as such a fun day.  We had learned of a new movie theater that was opening this week, and was showing free movies.  So, we went to see Toy Story 3 (again) with Bryce, and our friends Chrystina, Gabby and Penner.  We had so much fun. 

Until about 7 pm

He was just not acting himself, and told David that his ear hurt.  UH OH! I knew right away, from his history, and the runny nose he'd been sporting, that he was getting an ear infection.  I also knew that he is a MONSTER to give medicine, of any sort to.  I knew I was in for a long, long night with him.

The only way we can get Motrin in him, is to mix the "berry" flavored liquid kind into Orange Soda.  So we did.  He finally started to sleep - for a couple hours, until the pain was unbearable, and he and I came downstairs and popped in a couple movies and tried to find other methods to relieve the pain and suffer it all out.  It really is heart wrenching to watch your child suffer knowing that you can't do a lot for them. He is prone to them, had ear tubes, and still gets some bad infections... ugh. Poor sweetness. 

I don't know what changed, but I think out of sheer exhaustion, but around 4 am, he finally fell asleep... I shmooshed our couches together to make a "bed" for the 2 of us to snuggle on and we slept. 

At 6:45, Zach and Cannon came downstairs to get ready for school.  I was pretty groggy.  Cannon asked why his ear was full of blood. I woke up really quick at that point.  I am not a panicky sort of mom when my kids are sick, or hurt, or bleeding (I leave that role to David) But, maybe from watching too many episodes of CSI, or Criminal Minds, blood coming out of one's ear is NEVER a good thing... so I kinda started stressing.

I knew, that he probably ruptured his ear drum, but I didn't know how that effected his tube, or how that was going to affect his hearing, how much pain he was in, or how I should treat it.  SO we headed to the ER.

The Doctors (we saw 2) couldn't see anything because of the drainage.  One doctor showed me (I love it when docs do this because I learn so much) and really, there was just liquid and bubbles - no ear parts.  So, they called next door to an ENT's office (not our regular one) and got us an immediate appointment... NICE!  His other (left) ear, was fine however.

David got out of class, just in time to help. The ENT had to suction out his ear so that he could see inside. Its not a painful process, but loud and scary from a 3 year old's perspective (ok and a 34 year old's perspective too).  My little man was not happy.  It took David and I both to pin him down.  Elliot was actually angry with David (I was trying to calm and soothe him, so I guess he didn't see me as being mean) but he told David he "wasn't his dad anymore!" (sorry, but I kinda laughed, because 2 seconds later he just wanted David to hug him)

Turns out, some wax had plugged the tube, causing it not to work properly and the ear drum rupturing is the next step... and quite common.  Just not a pleasant thing to be a part of.  He was given 2 antibiotics.

So, we had spent all day at the doctor, and went it was now almost time to pick up kids from school.  I was exhausted, and didn't want to go home, just to drive back to the school, so I went to my sister, Lisa's house and waited there with Brett for Lisa to get home from the airport with Jordan (her oldest daughter who still lives in Idaho) Lisa took pity on me and picked up the kids from school. 

After we got home (his fever spiked at the ENT) and we got some Motrin in him, he took a nap, while I went to pick up his prescriptions. I was greeted by David who told me that that "healthy" left ear had ruptured while I was gone.  UGH! My poor little man! (and my couch had a mess to clean up too).  Emotionally, I sort of hit a wall... I was exhausted, had a huge list of "to-dos" but had no energy from not getting any sleep, but running on adrenaline all day.  Our friend/home teacher came over to help give Elliot a blessing.  I canceled plans that I had for today (Saturday) because I just knew I'd be in zombie-mode today.  Luckily I have really understanding friends.

So today, Elliot is running around with cotton in his ears to help with any drainage. As of this afternoon, he is starting to act like more like himself.  I missed his sweetness, cheerfulness, loving self yesterday. He sure does light up our home. Thank goodness for modern medicine, and friends and family who are always willing to help.

It will take time for the ear drums to heal.  His hearing is temporarily lessened while it heals. He can HEAR, but basically, it sounds muffled to him.  But he is responding just fine to us.   So we are not overly concerned. 

Gilbert Temple Groundbreaking

Last Weekend, November 13, we went to the groundbreaking ceremony of the new Gilbert Temple that is being built near our home.  Its very exciting.  It was announced 1 1/2 ago, and I was really surprised to see just how close it is to where we live.  We will be able to see the spires from our house.  

Here is a link to information about the Gilbert Temple.

I was grateful that the church waited until November for the groundbreaking.  I can't imagine sitting outside in the sun in July. I got a bit of a sun burn. It was actually gorgeous that day!

David needed to sleep, so the boys, 2 of my nieces and I went, found seats (we had brought a blanket just in case).  Elliot promptly started playing in all the dirt.  By the time it was all over, I was sure I was bringing home someone else, and I didn't think there was enough soap in the world to clean him or his clothes. He had a blast!

There was an estimated 7000 people there.  Elder Claudio Costa, of the Quorum of the Seventy spoke, as did the current Mesa Temple President.  The boys are excited to see the progress over the next 2 years as the temple is built. 

Halloween 2010

Halloween Weekend was pretty crazy around here.  Saturday, Zach spent the morning at a scout activity. They went to a Firestation... ate donuts, and watched the firemen leave for a call.  The tour was cut short, but that's part of the excitement of going to a fire station, I guess.  

We were supposed to go to the Fall Festival at the school.  But I had to make the tough call to NOT go.  My "fall allergies" have been hitting me full force and I've been having a hard time with asthma problems- so being outside - knowing I'd be outside for more festivities, is not a good idea right now.  I heard the Fall Festival was a hit though! 

That night, we had 2 Halloween Parties for church to go to... 1 for our ward, and another for Lisa's.  We loved it. The kids got dressed up.  They had a parade and people brought candy and the kids "Trick - or - Treated" during the Parade.  Dinner was served. A family set up a Haunted House (they normally do it in their garage every year).  We had a great time.  

Lisa had signed up to participate in a "trunk or treat".  Keera had asked us to come to "show us off" (tee hee) My kids were glued to her all night - Elliot eventually stuck with David - and I helped Lisa (and Deb who came too) pass out candy to the kids who came through the trunk or treat... some passed through a hundred times it seems.

We had a lot of fun!  The boys (and David and I - tee hee) came home with so much candy! Yummy! Now I have the daily battle to not eat it all day long (not winning) and getting Elliot to eat his meals without whining for candy (really not winning)

SO We were very excited that Elliot ACTUALLY dressed up in a costume this year.  Last year, we had a Buzz Lightyear costume he wore for 30 seconds before he threw a fit and pulled it off.  This year, he was SO excited to wear his Spiderman Costume.  Its amazing how much changes in a year!

Elliot as Spiderman - Zach as Darth Vader and Cannon as  young Anakin Skywalker

Spiderman spinning a web

The Young Anakin Skywalker - before

Darth Vader - Anakin Skywalker - after.

Wolfing it Down

      Zach has been working really hard this past year on his studies, as my last post shows, but also in Cub Scouts.  {{As a mom... I really don't understand the scouting program, having never gone through it myself.  Its a bit crazy}}.  

     Tonight was the first pack meeting since Zach turned 9, and became a "Bear" instead of a "Wolf" (The Pack Meeting of all the age levels in cub scouts and their families. It happens once a month. Big Hooplah!  This is when the boys get their awards)

       Zach finished all of the requirements to earn the award for the Wolf Badge and was awarded it tonight.  Whenever a big accomplishment is made... it is only fitting that the scout leaders make a big deal about it.  Soooo...

The Cubmaster, James Slavinsky,  got a pie plate, and put his badge and other goodies that go in it, in a plastic bag, into the pie plate... and put  a BIG PILE of whipped cream on top of it and told him he had to "WOLF IT DOWN"  The pictures tell the story from here...  It was fun... and Zach was a GREAT sport!

Brother Slavinsky awarding Zach with his Wolf badge.

Dad "helping" Zach not use his hands

 All the boys were chanting, "EAT IT! EAT IT!"

Coming up for air.

Smile!!

 

 Now I get to sew on more badges... Not my favorite thing in the world!

Report Card Time

I can't believe it is the end of the 1st quarter of the school year!  Every 1st and 3rd quarter we have our scheduled Parent Teacher Conferences, so mine was scheduled for today.  Our school, like most schools nowadays, have grades posted online, so there really shouldn't be any surprises. 
 

Zach... This Morning, while getting ready for school, he told me that his teacher, Ms. Newburgh told him that due to him not turning assignments in on time, his Math grade was a "D".  This has been a common problem, so I didn't jump online to check what was going on. I told him I was disappointed and I told him that he needs to learn to turn his assignments in (with his name on it too!!) and that we would discuss things after school once his Dad and I had a chance to talk too. We have never been really hard on grades, but he is a bit of a perfectionist... if his assignment isn't JUST right, he won't turn it in. As of 2 weeks ago, he had an A and I couldn't figure out what went so wrong.  Frustrating.

So I ran a bazillion errands {no exaggeration there!} this morning before school got out early at 12:30.  We went to Ms. Newburgh's conference first.  She is such a great teacher and we adore her. We had a very informative time discussing Zach's abilities in class... only to discover, that...

Zach is a GREAT LIAR!

He has STRAIGHT A's!  
(Ms. Newburgh was in on the little deception too! She thought it was really funny I fell for it!)

We also found out that Zach in on the Headmaster's List for the quarter.  And his goal for the year, is to get straight A's all year. If he does this, he will get the Governor's Award at the end of the year at a school wide assembly. 

As all schools do, they test him throughout the year, right now, as a 4th grader, his reading level is on a 6.5 level (6th grade, 5th month of school) and his math level is 5.8 (5th grade, 8th month) - so much for that D --- there are NO excuses buddy!!



Cannon... In 1st grade, they start grading him with traditional grades at this school, instead of just doing "E's" "S's" and "N's", like they did last year in Kindergarten.  I like it SO much better, I can really SEE and gauge what he is doing, where he is excelling and what he is struggling with.

He is doing great also. He has all A's and B's. He actually has OVER 100% in spelling because of the bonus words he has every week.  His teacher wants to move him up to a harder spelling list, but he takes the grades SOOO personally when he doesn't get 100% on spelling, that she just doesn't have it in her to take that away from him... yet.  He is just so sensitive and we agree, it is building his confidence right now and that is important.  The only reason he has "B's" {and I'm not complaining} is because he rushes through some of his work instead of applying himself.  We see that with homework too.

He loves to learn about science... right now they are learning about SPIDERS... (ewww) but he is having a blast with it! He is also really gifted with Math and loves to read.

I'm pretty sure that my kids are smarter than me.

Moby

Introducing, Moby, Our newest addition to our family. 

We have had a tough year or so when it comes to vehicles. Last year we were trying to keep our 98 Town & Country Mini Van alive, just a while longer.  It drained us - emotionally, physically, and financially. 

Then, some dear friends, Gave, yes GAVE us a 95 Plymouth Neon.  It took a little work to get it running smoothly, but we didn't want to put a lot of money in it either, not wanting to do the same thing to it, that we did to the van.  It was a HUGE blessing. But we were never able to get it to pass emissions so that we could get it registered in our name. Brett, my brother in law,  started working on it, and realized there were a lot of problems with it, that were not worth fixing. So, we were once again, carless and borrowing a car.

Luckily, we had some money come in.  When we got the little Neon, we hoped it would last longer, but at the very least, get us through until now, when we new our school money would come in.  So here we are.  But we knew we wouldn't have money for car payments, so that meant getting something CHEAP and that sort of freaked me out, because once we spent the money on the car, we won't have money to fix it up. 

So the past week or so has been stressful and exhausting. Not at all fun, like car buying should be, I think.

We ended up going to downtown Phoenix and found a bunch of little dealerships.  Some were kind of a joke.  We found this one called, Autos Barrititos.  They had some decent little cars, for fair prices.  When we saw this Astro, we were impressed by the condition it was in, the low miles (99,000), and a lot of new parts installed. It seems to have been taken care of well, inside and out.  We had Brett take a look too, and he really liked it.  The only thing wrong with it was the back AC was blowing hot air... which is a big deal in a rig that big in AZ.  Which they fixed.

I hate the haggling part of car buying.  I don't think David and I are very good with it.  But I think we got a good deal and we are quite happy with it. 

Now I just hope that it doesn't break down and stress me out and we get some good life and miles out of it.  So we are thinking happy thoughts, whispering sweet nothings to him. We have him a name, Moby, not just because it is a big blue beast, but because we like whales... and it seemed fitting. 

The Walls are Moving!

My Family makes fun of me.  Years ago, my brother gave me the nickname Slippy, after I slipped and fell on my bum on some ice.  I've repeated that "move" several times, which because of the humor of it, I promptly call Jeff so we can laugh together. 

They also laugh at me because I swear that the walls move from their original place, just enough for me not to be used to them, so I kick them and stub my toes.  One would think you would get used to where the walls are in the house, yet, I find I kick the walls, or other inanimate objects, often.  And people laugh at me.

I think it runs in my family. A genetic trait... there is clumsiness in several generations... Oh the stories I could tell you about my dear sweet mom... But that will take TOO long, so I will save her the embarrassment today.  I have a niece too, who is known for her "gracefulness"

So, on Zach's birthday, right before dinner, I kicked the corner of the wall (I swear it was further away a moment before!!)  I hurt a nice loud POP and I was quickly sitting on the floor.  I limped the rest of the night. 

I have broken my toes before, so I was sure by the look and feel of it, that I had done it again.  My worry, because or bruising underneath, what that I had broken my foot (which I had done before also).  Grrr.  So when I took Zach into the doctor the next day for his sore throat, I decided to have them Xray just in case.  My foot was fine, so I got to hobble around with a taped up toe for a couple weeks.  SIGH.

When I was taking pictures (the bruising was far worse underneath - love gravity) Elliot had to show off his "broken toe" too. 

Zach's birthday snuck up on us. I can't believe my little baby is 9 years old.  I guess I say something similar at every birthday for each of my kids.  But seriously... My oldest... is 9.  That is pretty big, kinda grown up, he has his own idea of what "cool" is, how he wants to dress, he is doing great in 4th grade (just Aced a big book report!!)  He is a GREAT brother. He is such an example to them - and to David and I.  He is patient and kind.  He is funny, highly intelligent, analytical, and brilliant. 

The night of his birthday, David had school and work, so it was planned to be low key, until our friend, Chrystina, and her family, decided to bring pizza over for dinner as a surprise.  Zach loved it.

Unfortunately, we couldn't celebrate his birthday very much, for a few reasons, but mainly because of sickness.  The week before, he caught a cold, which turned in to Bronchitis, aggravating his asthma.  He missed a bit of school.  He did go to school on his Birthday, but complained of a sore throat... I didn't think much of it because he was on anti-biotics.   BUT when i looked at his throat... EWWWW - NASTY. So another trip to the doctor was made.  A new prescription was given and it seemed to take 5 or 6 days before he started feeling the effects.  We still aren't certain if it was full on strep, but, boy did it look like a really nasty case.  That made case #5 of strep (or the like) for my boy.  He basically missed almost  2 weeks of school because he was not breathing, or barely eating.  Poor guy.  Next week is Fall Break, so he will have some friends over then for sleep overs, since we couldn't do a party.

So, when he did get healthy again, we celebrated with a family dinner to Logan's Roadhouse for some steak (Zach's favorite restaurant) with my sisters and their families in tow also.  It was fun.  We embarrassed Zach with the staff announcing his birthday. And we were all stuffed by the end of the night.

Zach received lots of cards, some cash and the final (I think) book in the Indian in the Cupboard Series. Also the Last Olympian book from the Percy Jackson series. and David and I found a smokin' deal on juggling classes from a company called "Trapeze U" just down the road.  Zach has wanted to learn to juggle and since Uncle Dirk isn't here to teach him, (and I can barely catch) we figured we would set him up with a couple classes! He is so excited.  He is saving his money up for some video games.

Opening the package from Mema and Papa. Zach considered it 

"Papa Wrapped" since it was so hard to get into

A box inside a box - see it IS Papa Wrapped... and mailed to SARAH - it can't be a present for ZACH

MMMM! Pizza and Friends! What a good night!

They are Coming! They are Coming!

After several years of ups and downs, and my brother in law, Brett, being out of work for months, my sister, Lisa and her family are moving HERE, to Phoenix... THIS WEEKEND!

They have been trying to find a place to move, and were looking at St. George, Utah for awhile, but nothing panned out.  Housing was one scam after another (the FBI is investigating!) jobs were no where to be found.  Nothing was working out. So, they decided to look here.

They decided to look here, LAST weekend.  Yes,  A week ago. Everything is falling into place. So in the past week, Deb and I have been on a rampage of errands and phone calls.  We were able to find them a cute condo to move into, that they were approved for, in the same area for Keera to go to the same high school as Cody - So Keera wont be as intimidated going from a small Idaho high school to a huge Mesa High School.  Someone dropped out of Dobson Academy in 5th grade to change schools, so that left a place for Jace at the same school as my kids.  We had to get a special exception for Ali to get in there too, but that turned out to be no problem either (Dobson Academy likes to keep siblings together.) So all the kids have friendly faces at school!

Brett and Jace got into town last night with the truck full of their stuff.  Lisa and the girls will get in, today! I can't even begin to tell you how excited we all are!  Lisa, and Jordan will be here for a week and head back to Idaho.  Lisa has a job, and will continue to work until Brett finds one here.  Jordan will stay and finish her Senior year in Idaho.  That was, of course, a tough decision.  But, she is a good kid, can stay with family there, and bc she will be 18 in November, is editor if the yearbook (something she has worked hard for). They are allowing her to stay. Besides, it much easier to do that than, say, have her be an exchange student around the world.  (tee hee)

So this week will be very crazy... regular Widdison craziness, but helping them out too. But I LOVE IT!

Apollo

Introducing, Apollo. He is our newest addition to our animal kingdom. Not really planned. Sort of felt like we needed to do something... let me explain.

 

Some of the neighborhood kids have been running around with little kittens - adorable, cute kittens. Amazingly, I wasn't that sappy about it.  They said they were for sale for $1, so I started wondering if they were selling strays or something.  Then one night, at midnight, I could hear the teeniest meowing outside - that made me worried. (we have TONS of black widows out right now). So even with my paranoia of scorpions, I went out searching for the scared little kitty.  I couldn't find it after searching for about an hour. (I was very brave - really!)

So, the next day, when the neighborhood kids came around with the kittens again I asked more questions and they took me to the owner. Their cat had given birth to several kittens. They refuse to spay her, so she is constantly pregnant.  (the momma cat is Siamese - I love genetics bc obviously Apollo takes after his daddy).  She just sells them (keeps the owner is"business") and the conditions were really bad. I was really upset, but not sure how to handle it. If she doesn't sell them, I think she just lets them wander off and contribute to the stray population in the area. She was really callus.

We went home, furious actually.  We debated different options and decided that we had to try to save at least one.  I put a call out on facebook to see if anyone was interested in a cat.  No luck.  We decided to barter with her and offered her less than she was asking for our cat.  She took it, but insisted that if I tell others to tell them about the original asking price.  

Apollo, our white little cat, wasn't very white, so I gave him a bath, got pretty clawed in the process, but he smells better and looks better.  He is around 8 weeks old and has different colored eyes, one green, one blue. He is very cuddly, and very playful.  

As for his name... There are many reasons we chose Apollo.  We have dog with a Greek god name - so why not a cat.  Zach is very into Mythology, thanks to school and the Percy Jackson series.  After doing some research, I found out that among other things, Apollo was the god of Animal Welfare! - I figured it was pretty fitting!!

Poseidon, is super excited about this new little cat.  Nox, our other cat... does not share the same sentiment.  

The boys are very excited. They don't like his sharp claws. So we clipped his claws.  Should have done that before I dowsed him with water and Dawn soap! LOL

Welcome Apollo!!

First Day of School

The First Day of School was Wednesday, August 4!  Wahoo!  The kids met their teachers 

Monday night before, filled out some forms, found their desks and who was in their classes.  

 

Zach is in 4th grade now. His teacher is Ms. Newburgh. She is probably in her mid 30's, has 3 kids and really fun.  We are really liking her a lot! She is fun, but strict.  Zach was sad that his best friend, James, was not in his class, but his other really good friend, Zachary, was. Turns out... their are a total of  3 Zach's in his class this year!! That will make things interesting for sure.  He has some big projects during the year, including his first Science Fair project, which he is SO excited about.  And at the end of the year, the 4th grade goes on a SLEEPOVER field trip to the Phoenix Zoo! David and I are "discussing" which one of us will go with him.  Such a fun experience.

Cannon, is in 1st grade and has Mrs. Walker - Zach had her for 1st grade also.  We couldn't be happier. She is the funnest teacher.  She is a bit older, ALWAYS happy, and always dancing around to music in her head.  You can't help but be happy around her! I have signed up to be the PTO liason for their class too.  His best friend, Daniel isn't in his class this year either, but one of his other good friends is. There is only 1 Cannon in his class this year!

Elliot is NOT liking that his brothers are in school with out him.  He keeps telling me that HE is going to school and I am staying home.  Its so hard being 3.

David's birthday

I'm so behind on my blogging again. Ahg! I last left off At Elliot's birthday... Which brings me to David's Birthday... The big 33 at the end of July.  The kids had fun watching him open his cards and presents.  My friend Chrystina had recently gone to Cancun, and I had her buy a new bracelet that he wanted.  I had given him one a LONG time ago, but it wasn't good quality, and changed funky colors.  So he got a silver one from Mexico this year.  He really likes it... (sorry no close up pics tho...)

(David had fun putting on his bracelet for the first time)

Happy Birthday David! We love you!

Paying a Debt

So now - 2 of my kids have their own pillow pets.  Zach had expressed concern that, although he wanted one, he didn't want for his birthday (because he didn't want to be embarrassed in front of his friends) So, he decided that he would work for it instead. (it wouldn't really be fair for him to get one just because, when the others had to wait for their birthday's)

So we set up a plan for him to be able to work and earn some money - and to be fair - Cannon could do the same thing. (its been going on for a few weeks) Its been working out pretty good actually.  Zach decided he wanted to save up all the money and then pay us back at once, plus save up more money for other fun things. 

So after Elliot opened his Pillow Pet, Cannon noticed that Zach didn't have one.  I told Cannon that Zach wanted to buy one him self and not get one for his birthday.  So Cannon said that he wanted to buy it for him - because Cannon had some money from his own birthday and work.

David and I were shocked!  We questioned Cannon to make sure that is how he wanted to spend his money and explained that I had Zach's pillow pet upstairs.  (Zach didn't know anything about this, mind you)

Cannon was positive that he wanted Zach to have his Polar Bear Pillow Pet right away and he wanted to buy it for him for a present.  How could I resist?  Really?  It was so selfless. He didn't think at all about himself - only about the happiness of his big brother. So we agreed.

Cannon and I went upstairs and got the Polar Bear, and he handed it to Zach - who was confused and shocked. Cannon practically jumped on Zach to hug him, he was so happy to do this for him. He told Zach that he is his "bestest big brother". He didn't understand at first that his debt had been paid by his little brother.

I love my kids. Such good boys!  Here is a picture of Cannon and Zach with the Polar Bear. Can you see how happy Cannon is in this picture?  It feels so good to help someone else!

Elliot Turns 3

So Friday, July 16, my "baby" turned 3.  I know, he's not really a baby anymore, but since he's my youngest, and last... well, you know... he's my baby.  (they are all my "babies" actually)

He was so cute in the morning.  At some point in the the night, he had crawled in bed with David and I.  So when I woke up and saw his cute little sleeping face, I was happy to kiss him awake and whisper "Happy Birthday, Elliot".  His sleepy little eyes opened and he smiled and  he asked, "Its my birthday!! I get presents?"  

So we went downstairs, gathered his brothers, camera and presents!  He had big eyes, a bigger smile and loved opening up the cards, seeing the pictures on the cards and surprises inside.  David read the cards to him.  Elliot giggled and squealed.  Birthdays with little kids are so fun.

We got him a pillow pet - a penguin because he LOVES a show called "3-2-1 Penguins" especially a character named "Kevin" (He says "Kebin"). He and David sing the theme song together and giggle. He was so excited.  The box, as you will see, is in a Stampin' Up! box - which he automatically said as he unwrapped it, "Mommy's work!" it was cute.

He didn't want a birthday cake - he wanted birthday ice cream.  So that is what he got. (which personally - was kinda nice since we had cake a week ago!! tee hee)

Good-bye Speed Cameras

Recently, (July 15, I think) many of Arizona's speed camera's that dotted the metro's freeways came down. Yes, I know - many Arizonans, and tourists are celebrating - including me. The contract between the state and the company that ran the camera's ended and would not be renewed.  They were very controversial, from whether or not they were effective, whether not not they were bringing in any revenue, to how the tickets were being served.  Driving down the road, there would be a sign 300 feet before the camera warning you of it's activity.  People would slow down to BELOW the speed limit for fear of getting a ticket.  Ugh!  While on the news, - weekly, you'd hear that the radar would not trigger it to snap your picture and issue a ticket unless you are going 11 miles per hour OVER the speed limit (so 76 in a 65 mph zone). Driving at night, if the camera went off -  - making anyone nearby blindly driving down the freeway... not the greatest idea ever.  I always wondered if there was an accident because of the flash, whose fault would it have been... the original speeder, the camera, or the person who crashed because they were blinded because of the speeder who triggered the flash, or the city for installing  the camera??  Could be an interesting case, yes?

But that is not exactly what I'm posting about. 

Since the cameras have come down, unfortunately... I've seen increased speeding on the roads. I was hoping that would not be the case.  Most speed limits on the freeways I drive on the most are 65 mph.  I usually find I am driving at about 70 - even with the cameras up... My habits haven't changed.  Since the cameras have come down, I have had to move to the far right hand slow lane (unusual) so that people can zoom past me, easily going 80+ on the freeway.  Kinda scary.  I'm used to being a in a bigger vehicle, but since we are in a small Neon, I kinda feel like I'm no match for these bigger SUV's that are plowing down the road.

I love (please sense the sarcasm) that when the announcement was made that the cameras would come down, it was also announced the police would be paroling more... I remember laughing at that statement. "HOW - with all the cutbacks in the police force?"  I think it will just happen during the "rush" holiday seasons as usual. 

I would LOVE to see more officers on the road, patrolling, catching the things that happen that the cameras didn't, the road rage, incidents, tailgating, drunk driving, OH and the speeding, the crazy motorcyclist popping wheelies down the freeway...  

So goodbye speed cameras! Good riddance!

(PS-Red light camera's are still around)
  

Birthday Boy

Today, Cannon turns 6.  Hard to believe - but true.  Looking at him, watching him, listening to him, its obvious. But, its kinda hard to imagine in some ways.  Its just gone by pretty fast.

His best friend Daniel came over last night to spend the night! Phew - glad that's over. Don't get me wrong - Daniel is a great kid.  But - I just solidifies that I only have patience for my 3 kids (and not always then!) It was a night full of pizza, video games, running, screaming, laughter, jumping off the top bunk (grrr - I didn't like that new trick), some arguing, feelings getting hurt (boys bring their own drama too).  I sent the kids to bed around 10:30- and still heard Daniel and Cannon in their room talking quietly until about 11:30.  I figured as long as they we letting everyone else sleep - it would be ok.  They did well. - They just might need naps today - which might be fine with me! Tee hee!

So today, was a bit more chaotic... we turned on the sprinklers, filled the kiddie pool - that kept them happy, and wore off some hyper boy energy for a while.  They tried playing on the Wii - that just brought on fighting.  

So around 2 - some more friends come over.  Deb (no boys - they were at their dad's) our friend Bonnie, and my friend, Chrystina, and her 4 kids, Sabina, age 8, Trevor, 5 and Gabby and Penner - 2 year old twins. (our kids play really well together)  We had cake and ice cream and opened presents.  Nothing major.  The kids were all off playing and the grown ups visited for a bit.  Cannon said he had a blast.  He told me today he can't wait until he is 7 for his next birthday because today was so fun!

Here are some fun photos of him opening presents...

(He got a Hot Wheels track and cars, Star Wars Wii game, Money from Mema and Papa, and Oma and Opa, Lego Toy Story 3 Set.)

In the Last photo, is Cannon with his long awaited Pillow Pet.  Its a stuffed animal, but it flattens out as a pillow.  It is soft and snugly too.  You may have seen these on TV or heard their obnoxious ad. Cannon - my sweet, cuddly, Cannon, was hooked and has been begging.  I had NO plans on buying him one, until I asked him what he wanted for his birthday and a pillow pet was his answer.  When I asked if he didn't get that, what else did he want... He said, "he'd wait for Christmas or Easter" UGH!  It wasn't going to go away.  Plus, there was a killer whale - and he is a sucker for a killer whale.  So, we ordered them (we ordered ones for Zach and Cannon too - because they all want them)  I had him convinced he wasn't getting one because it "wouldn't get here in time for his birthday', or "we didn't have the money", or, ""he already has a pillow, and ENOUGH killer whales!"

So the joy on his face when he opened the box was awesome. I wish I had gotten his expression on camera.  It was great.  He has been carrying it around with him ever since.  

So, he has had a busy, and fun Birthday!  Thanks for all the love and birthday wishes!

To Infinity and Beyond

All of my boys (ok, I admit and me and David too) have been big Toy Story Fans.  How can you not be? Fun characters, great story line, exciting plot, funny "one liners" great moral.  So for the end of the story to come out... is bittersweet for me. Toy Story 3 came out on my birthday this year.  I really wanted to see it on my birthday - but not really into fighting the crowds.  So we waited a couple weeks. 

We went with Deb, Cody and Bryce. They are big fans too.  Deb had bought a Buzz Lightyear costume - after the first movie came out.  Cody was Buzz for Halloween as a toddler.  Bryce was too.  My other nephew Jace wore the costume for Halloween later.  So did Zach and Cannon.  For some weird reason - Elliot freaked out last year and wouldn't wear it.  (he went as an ornery 2 year old instead)  He is too big for it now. But he looks at it in my closet all the time and gets excited! (silly kid)  

We have several Buzz and Woody toys... even a Weezy too.  We watch the movies on a regular basis.  So, yes, Toy Story 3 was like saying goodbye to beloved characters that have been part of our family.  SO YES, I cried.

Luckily, with modern technology, and great marketing we don't really have to say goodbye.

Since my dear husband works at Wal-Mart and came home with one of the Display Signs - which is now housed in Elliot's room above his window.  David hung it up without Elliot  knowing  We made him close his eyes as he came into his room (it was actually clean that day) and when he saw it for the first time, his face lit up, and he SQUEALED! It was so cute.  He gave me and David and huge hug and said we "do good work".  Its actually quite big.  Its probably 5 feet long.  It makes Buzz, Woody and Jessy seem Life size.  Elliot has been asking me off and on for months, "Mom, I go DisneyLand, meet Buzz and Mickey?"  

 

Someday, little man, Someday!!

And It's Outta Here!!

We sold our van today.  David posted it on Craiglist last night... which was kinda news to me this morning.  The van wasn't really cleaned out and ready to go yet. (Iwould have worded it differently, and had the car ready to sell, but - oh well)  But, we weren't really ready for a lot of people to jump on our post on Craigslist either.  He posted it, of course, higher than we thought we'd get for it (about twice as much as we thought we'd sell if for - negotiating room, you see.) We  figured we'd sell it to the first person who gave us a decent offer.  We just wanted to be done with the blasted thing.  By morning, we had 6 people wanting more info.  David called the first person on the list - a family from Phoenix, who, then jumped in their car and came right over. (we of course scrambled to clean out the car (some crumbs and toys from the kiddos).  We went through our LONG list of everything we have fixed in it, he looked under the hood, was willing to take it.  He gave us more than we thought we'd have to settle for!! He paid for it and THEN drove it around the corner to put some gas in it - seeing it had some issues -  and still wanted it.  YAY!  So we are done with it.  They are a pretty cool family.  I hope they are able to figure it out.  With our luck - it will be some $2 fix because we took care of all the expensive junk!  Aye! Aye Aye!  It's ok!  We are done with the thorn in our side. 

 

We've been driving a '95 Plymouth Neon that our friends Jessica and Trevor gave us for several weeks now. Its small, but it seats 5, so it works for us. It was a rough start at first, but still ran 100 times better than our van. The AC was hot (we recharged it - now it even freezes David!) and it was slow to start up - but it started and ran.  We have since changed out the spark plugs (only 1 was firing) and we've changed out the fuel pump and fuel filter.  It runs great now! Luckily, all this stuff, David can do.  (too bad its 110 degrees outside) Its been pretty cool to see what "little" things do to improve the performance of this car. There are a few more things to do on it  (timing belt, possibly the water pump at the same time at the timing belt, new tires, 1 motor mount, replace the seals on the spark plugs, to name a few) but its' all stuff David can do a little at a time and they are are all regular basic maintenance things - not whole system failures like in the van.  The timing belt is next on the list. 

Balloon Wreath

So for church, I am on the Relief Society Monthly Meeting Committee (insert your favorite term - Enrichment, Homemaking, etc) Its really fun.  We are preparing for a "Super Saturday" type activity for September (except we are doing ours on a Friday night - Probably calling it Freaky Friday)

anyway....

I was asked to do some "research" by making a craft we might do, and check out the price, how long it took to make, etc.  We found this idea on the site howdoesshe.com (that will link you to the directions of the wreath too.  The only thing it doesn't tell you is the size of straw wreath.  I ended up buying a 14 inch one - which was too big for the instructions so I needed more balloons.  So get a 10-12 inch wreath.  The total cost was about $15 and it took about an hour.  (I'm not counting the extra balloons... luckily Deb had some extra balloons, I could use!!)

I love it!!... July is such a busy birthday month for our immediate family (Cannon, Elliot, David are all July birthday's - plus others in our extended families) Its fun to have something fun and festive for birthdays!

Here is my finished product!

Bee Be Gone

I was feeling a bit nervous and concerned for my neighbors and warned them about my bee hive this morning.  We have a  big joint backyard, but private porches (where my bees were) and I would have felt SO bad if something happened before we got the bee guy out to get rid of them.  So I told the close ones, and the ones I knew that walk their dogs this way.  I was probably being paranoid, but just the thought of someone's dog being attacked, not to mention a child, was horrific.  So I had to caution people.  Then I figured they were at their own risk.

So, I called the Bee Remover guy, Chandler Pierce, from Bee Be Gone.  I had used him before when we caught the beginnings of a hive moving in to our grill a month ago! (aye, aye, aye)  I'm really impressed with him.  Small family owned business.  He gave me a "repeat customer" discount... which was nice, but I really don't want to be a repeat customer!  {sigh} His prices are fair. (I was quoted from another company that just an evaluation - to see if I had bees would cost $300.  SERIOUSLY?  I know what bees are!! Removal would be another $300.)  We didn't pay nearly that much!   If you need his number, let me know... I will gladly give you his info and referr him on. (I kinda think he killed a few scouts a month a go, and some new ones found this new space instead and have been busy getting it ready for "Her Majesty" - the Swarm we saw yesterday was bringing her in)

But first, not sure if you can see this one, but it was pretty cool to see the little bee with all the pollen on his legs. (click on it to enlarge) It kind of looks like white on the side of him. He was working so hard. and in just a few minutes... it was gonna be for nothing...

Chandler's 10 year old son was on the job today, learning the ropes and LOVES it. Loves bugs, loves learning how to kill them! As a mom... I'm freaking out, but at the same time, they were professional and know the risks and safety measures.  So they both put on the spacey, bee keeper suits. (His sons was modified with duck tape to hold things tightly sealed!!) My boys and I were watching safely INSIDE with the camera ready!! (now Zach wants to be the "Bee Guy" when he grows up)

Yes, I admit, I was hoping that there would be some sort of swarm {he's got the suit on, sheesh, cut me some slack, yes, I'm a little morbid} , UNTIL he brought his son. Then I decided that was bad and scary.  And nothing major happened in that department.  BUT... here is what DID happen still kinda interesting

Chandler sprayed a foam around the openings of the trunk so they can't escape/attack, while his son gassed the inside, killing the bees.  You could hear a loud buzzing inside from some very angry bees (yes, I could hear it from inside the house).  They waited a few minutes for the buzzing to die down... and it didn't die down enough for them.  So they kinda peaked a bit.  (this is them, leaning down listening to the bees)

THERE WERE A LOT MORE BEES than expected and some pretty big pieces of honeycomb!  Amazing!! So they gassed some more and finally the buzzing stopped.

There were some angry bees (not a mob, but 20-50 or so) flying around them, being pretty aggressive.  Chandler, and his son, swatted at them (tried to catch them in their gloved hands - ewww) but pretty much ignored them)

When they opened up the trunk, we had a good look at the honeycomb. There were 3 pieces. The longest was about 6 inches long and 5 inches wide.  Stark white, beautiful . You can see the pollen being packed inside.  Some even had honey in it (of course not enough to use, and no longer edible) The wax was soft and perfect, delicate.  A work of art.  I am mesmerized. Its in a bowl in my house right now.  Fascinating to look at!

As for the bees - it was started over 2-3 weeks ago. (it takes honey, I guess, about 2 weeks to be made). So we are very lucky that we never opened that trunk in the last couple weeks for whatever reason (outside toys, hose, etc).  We would have been attacked.  Yes, they were Africanized.  They were far too aggressive to not be. (plus, pretty much all local wild bees have been Africanized now, he said)

Africanized bee stings are dangerous because once 1 bee stings you, the pheromone that is released alerts the others to come attack too.  100 bee stings is equivalent to 1 rattlesnake bite. A man here, recently died, because he was attacked by bees and was stung over 500 times.  Now I understand why it was so deadly.  No one in AZ has died from a Scorpion sting in 80 years - but non-allergic people die from bee stings yearly.  (I still HATE scorpions - just for the record) but it kind puts things into perspective.

After they dumped the bees out of the the trunk... there was a LARGE pile of bees on the grass. (kinda looks like dirt - but I wasn't going outside with the few angry bees out there still) He said there were about 10 THOUSAND bees there!  YIKES!  Still amazed - yet creeped out!  His son was picking through the pile looking for the queen {icky!}  With no luck.  He was disappointed.  She is probably one of the few still on my porch, hiding in plane sight (a few fell out when they were moving things). 

We have to let everything set for 24 hours and then we get to clean it all up and sweep up all the dead bees on my porch. (ok - David and the boys' job) The rest of the bees will be dead by then too. 

Of course, Chandler thanked me for my repeat Bee Business! Now to figure out how to keep the blasted things away!!

So if trouble comes in 3 I'm done for this week (bees, sick dog, and stranded in our new to us car - just thinking its a very clogged fuel filter.  but being stranded is never fun. but luckily/hopefully its an easy job and runs better than my van!!) Can I have a vacation NOW??

Newest Pets?

Hmmm, No, No No, we really don't have a new pet!  More like a PEST! and unfortunately, this is not the first time this year we are dealing with this one.

Bees.

Earlier, we caught some moving into our grill.  Not so fun, but we had the bee remover come and kill them, quickly before it got out of hand.  They had the nifty suits - which was the highlight.  They sprayed some stuff and that that was it.  $125 was gone in less than 5 minutes.  SIGH.

Today, my kids told me the bees were back... I was hoping they were in the grill, because the removal service came with a 1 year warrentee... but you and I know that our luck doesn't work that way...
NOPE. They were in in our storage trunk that was on our back porch.  SHOOT! 

Here is some info on how bees do their work... from what I'm told...


The scouts smuggle in the queen to their new location - someplace big (with about a 5 gallon open space available - so my trunk and grill are bee luxuries) Once the queen is happy, the rest of the hive comes at once... like 8000 bees or more all at once....

So, my friend, Bonnie was over and I happened to look out the window and my jaw hit the floor.  Cannon described it best and said there was a "bee tornado" on our back porch. They covered the side of our strorage trunk, got all moved in and once settled, got busy making their hive.

I admit, I was fascinated on one hand.  It really was incredibly interesting. BUT really scary. They were trying to attack us through the windows... telling me they are probably Africanized... VERY NOT HAPPY ABOUT THAT. (Africanized bees are very aggressive and actually can kill people even if you're not allergic to them)

So, we will be calling our bee remover again.  I'm hoping for more of a show this time for the payment.  At least make it entertaining for the price involved - he's got the gear - I want to see see a swarm or something like that!! (and this guy is cheaper.... we have been quoted $600 from some places - sheesh!)

Here's some photos - if you click on them, they will enlarge.... Enjoy!

(not the best photos because I was taking the picture through a dirty window... lots of finger prints I need to wash off!!)