Are you sick too??

Maybe these will help... :)

NEW DRUGS FOR WOMEN

DAMNITOL
Take 2 and the rest of the world can go to hell for up to 8 full hours.

EMPTYNESTROGEN
Suppository that eliminates melancholy and loneliness by reminding you of how awful they were as teenagers and how you couldn't wait till they moved out!

ST. MOMMA'S WORT
Plant extract that treats mom's depression by rendering preschoolers unconscious for up to two days.

PEPTOBIMBO
Liquid silicone drink for single women Two full cups swallowed before an evening out increases breast size, decreases intelligence, and prevents conception.

DUMBEROL
When taken with Peptobimbo, can cause dangerously low IQ, resulting in enjoyment of country music and pickup trucks.

FLIPITOR
Increases life expectancy of commuters by controlling road rage and the urge to flip off other drivers. �*&@#$

MENICILLIN
Potent anti-boy-otic for older women. Increases resistance to such lethal lines as, "You make me want to be a better person. "

BUYAGRA
Injectable stimulant taken prior to shopping. Increases potency, duration, and credit limit of spending spree.

JACKASSPIRIN
Relieves headache caused by a man who can't remember your birthday, anniversary, phone number, or to lift the toilet seat

ANTI-TALKSIDENT
A spray carried in a purse or wallet to be used on anyone too eager to share their life stories with total strangers in elevators.

NAGAMENT
When administered to a boyfriend or husband, provides the same irritation level as nagging him, without opening your mouth.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!


I found this blog awhile ago. So inspirational. But the other day, he had the funniest thing on it ... check it out:

Nathan's 4 Very Effective Ways of Avoiding Contracting the Influenza and Certain Death While Riding on Elevators During Flu Season

Seriously, if you want to get sick, don't pay any attention to the secrets I'm about to disclose to you...

1) Don't touch anything or anyone. Not with your fingers, not with you clothes, not with your right kneecap. The only thing that should be touching anything is the bottoms of your shoes. Hopefully, somebody else will be going to your floor, but it might mean riding for a while until the the elevator decides to stop on your floor. Unless you are forced to perform CPR on somebody, don't touch anyone!

2) Don't ride with little children. I love kids, but they're germ magnets. If you see a child on the elevator, don't get on. If you are on and a child gets on, get off immediately. Unless you have your own children with you, and they're too scared to ride in a separate elevator without you, don't ride with little children!

3) Wear lots of layers. Just in case you do touch something/someone, or something/someone touches you, you still have a defense. By wearing layers, you can remove the contaminated layer and burn it in a trashcan (most elevators have trashcans nearby). The more rides you planning on taking on the elevator, the more layers you'll need to wear. Unless you are going to ride naked and shower immediately upon exiting the elevator (which seems just a little extreme to me), wear lots of layers.

4) Don't Breathe. Hold your breath. Even if you're not touching a thing, you still must hold your breath the entire time to completely avoid . If you can't make it all the way to your floor, get out, refuel, and then get back in. Or, you can wear an oxygen tank. Unless you're about to pass out and be forced to touch something or have somebody perform CPR on you, don't breath!

No need to thank me.

Nate

Too funny...

My heart is on my sleeve.

Well it happened. I got the crud. And at the worst time possible. If you're a mom, you know, ya just go till you absolutley can't anymore. Monday evening I got the scratch in the back of the throat, then a head ache, then my lower back, then all my joints, then dizzy. All, while I was running around, trying to get homeopathic stuff to make it all go away.

So I came home, and collapsed. Well took all the homeo stuff, a sleeping pill, m otri n, and tylen ol, then collasped.

Well folks during the night, I got a fever, the chills, and didn't sleep a wink. I was awake all night long, trying to figure out HOW I was going to get to the funeral. I thought, I can just load up on meds, wash my hands 500 times, and bring hand sanitizer, to use every 15 minutes. Then my sweet Jack woke up at 4 am. He did lay there kicking, until around 5:30 or so. Then I had to get up. Shaking and shivering, I curled up on the couch, and turned on the tv. The more I thought about going, the sicker I got. I was sick to my stomach, and scared to death to take anything.

The time I was going to leave, came and went, the time the viewing started, came and went. 11:00 came and so did the tears. I was SO devastated I was not there. I can not even find the words to to say how much this family touched my heart. And the fact that GERMS...were stopping me....too much. I cried and cried. Ok, I was sick too, but still.

After a good cry, I took a three hour nap (my mom was here). I felt 80% better when I got up. It was so weird. A miracle really. Why it happened AFTER the funeral, I don't know. Maybe I couldn't have handled it. I really don't know.

So the littlest thing the past two days, sets me off. The Biggest Loser, American Idol, commercials... Then I found out my sweet friend, got to be part of the color guard, and hand the flag to his Aunt at his Uncle's funeral yesterday. They just keep coming. I'm hoping the water works subside soon.

I feel SO MUCH better today. I guess all that natural stuff worked after all.

Here is Jeanine's BEAUTIFUL summary of the funeral. Be sure to read it, maybe everything will make YOU cry for the next 2 days...

:)

Sorry, but I couldn't resist.

Seriously...vote for him, or Emma and I will have to kill you. Last night she was singing his name...David Archuleta...david archuleta...david archuleta...

Kisses! ;)

The cure for the heavy heart

Who-da-thunk...the kid can catch a ball...

Oh how I love this boy!

In Honor of Kaden and Jack

I made these today, in an effort to honor Jack, and Kaden. I hope you like it. I was going to save the first one for his birthday, but wanted to share it today, as my heart is still heavy. I feel like I'm mourning all over again. This was therapy for me.

Goodbye for now...Kaden.

This has been quite an emotional journey for me. I don't even really know what to say. This is the journey we were told we would be on. This is the journey we dreaded. This is the journey, that for us, never happened.

My heart aches for The Mack Family. As blessed as they have been, and as much as they have touched many lives, by sharing their son with us. He still went to heaven. He WILL be with them forever, and he didn't NEED to be on earth. But he still went to heaven.

Tonight, it doesn't seem fair. Tonight I look at Jack, and wonder what would our life be like without this sweet boy. This sweet boy, who just climbed up on a chair, opened a drawer, pulled out a bag of 200 straws, and threw them on the floor. This sweet boy, who was supposed to be there to meet Kaden in heaven. Why is Jack here, and Kaden isn't?

It has been so interesting for me, how so many people love my little Jacky, and have never met him. Well, now I get it. I love baby Kaden. I have been so upset I was not able to go meet him. I just didn't dare with all our sicknesses.

I just know, that we too will see him in heaven. I think even in heaven, all our special kids will have a club. But the ones who get to heaven first will be running it.

So I go to bed tonight with a heavy, but thankful heart. Thankful to have "met" someone like Kaden. Thankful for my testimony of eternal families.

Thankful for my beautiful Baby/Toddler... Jack.

Why am I so tired?

Um...that would be MY BED! When kiddos are sick, I let them sleep in my bed. Luckily, Emma has a full sized bed, so DH just sleeps there, or I do, sometimes we switch back and forth.

Anyway, this was how I found them last night, when I went to bed. Emma's head is peeking out from under the quilt, and yes, Jack's feet is where my head will be!

*sigh*

Solid or liquid?

You may find this entertaining, if not, oh well, they did! We were SO SICK of being SICK, we decided to do something weird.



We didn't do this, just played with it. But if YOU want something more constructive, go for it! It's pretty cool. We first saw it on Ellen, where they WALKED on it. Parker and Em REALLY wanted to do that...ya um...no. The batch the kids are playing with was 2 cans of cornstarch alone.

Anyway...try it at YOUR house...it's cool! Oh, and for the record...it cleans up great!!

Beautiful Singing

I have been wanting to blog about this for a while now, but have had trouble coming up with the right words. So here goes:

I alluded to this in my "200 Things That Bring Me Joy" post, # 191. I don't know if you all know this or not, but I LOVE choral singing. I am a soloist as well, but there is something about a choir.
I sang with Choral Arts Society of Utah, for about 3 years, and took a leave of absence when I got pregnant with Jack, and went back just before Christmas. We do some really fun concerts. My favorites have been singing at Symphony Hall, and Murray Park, for Armed Forces Day, with the 23rd Army Band, and the Salvation Army Angel Tree Benefit Christmas Concert.

I have not always been a fan of singing classical music, especially in Latin or German. But things are quickly changing for me.

March 28, 2008 will be the premier performance of the "Missa Breva", a new work composed by Donny Gilbert, our Associate Music Director. I can't even begin to tell you what an amazing experience it has been, to be taught this amazing piece, by the man whose head it came out of. And the fact he has never heard it OUT of his head, until we sing it, is huge.

I have always been in awe of composers. Especially classical music. Mozart, John Williams, Mack Wilberg. It is so amazing to me, that they hear it in their head, put it on paper, then . And Beethoven, hello?!?!? The man was DEAF!!!!!

Anyway, if you are around Salt Lake, and want to be there when... YOU NEED TO COME TO THIS CONCERT!! We are also performing the Faure Requiem. You can find info here. I can get you tickets too!! Let me know if you are coming, it will be an AMAZING night!

Are we on the upswing???

Well, today is better. Jack is still coughing, but it seems to be lessening, during the day anyway. Parker's rapid strep came back negative. Hate that. He's been quiet today, which means he doesn't feel good! ;)

Nick went to school. And Emma has been bossing everyone around all day.

So things are looking up, that is till DH and I get it. Heaven help me when that occurs.

Idol was interesting, check out that other blog for thoughts on that.

Thanks for all the well wishes! And keep the prayers coming for Kaden, They are going to try taking him home tomorrow!

Seriously? Seriously.

Parker is sick. I'm pretty sure he and Nick have strep. I know...stop laughing. They both have sore throats. Parker is "sicker" than Nick. Parker, before he had his tonsils out 3 years ago, had strep, probably 6 or 7 times. This kid KNOWS when he has strep. And now the he's older, is much more dramatic about it.

Jack and Emma a MUCH better, but still coughing coughing, running running. Thankfully, their fevers have subsided for most of the day, only popping up in the evening before bed. But a little motrin, and they go to bed happy, coughing, but happy. I wish there was something I could do for Jacky's cough. It is SO awful. He has these fits that last like a half hour. The poor baby. And there is NOTHING I can do to help him. Drinking seems to do nothing, humidifier-nothing, patting his back....nada.

I...need a freakin vacation.

Coughing, coughing, coughing, coughing...

My poor little kiddos. The weird thing is, it's not in their lungs. Weird and good I guess. I talked to the ER earlier, and Jack tested positive for RSV. Or as I call it, R-eally S-ick, of this V-irus. I guess I should be counting my blessings it's not in his lungs. But then again, there is nothing they can do for him.

He still has green guck, coming out every hole in his head. Uck...it is so gross. Emma, is a sick little girly too. Although she will tell you different. "I'M NOT SICK....hack hack hack sniff sniff, sneeze. *sigh* Oh, and my thermometer is working overtime. Hence the picture! If you don't have one of these. GET ONE!!! Jack brings it to me, to take his temp. And Emma can take her own. It's sad really...

Nick is coming down with crap too. He just feels achey. If he gets the cough...I may just lose my mind. Hopefully Parker will stay healthy. He is starting rec wrestling. He is so excited. I think he'll be great at it. He's little, and fierce.

Thanks for all the prayers and such, the nurse told me RSV runs 7 -10 days. WOO HOO....we are on day 7. It's looking up!! *rolling eyes*

Baby Kaden

I have been in contact with a family I would like to share with you all. LeAnn, the Cleft Coordinator at PCMC called and asked me to contact them. I have been so overcome with their story, I haven't mentioned it until now. It has brought me back to that place I thought I was done with.

I have said this before, but sometimes I hate this club, Jack has put us in. Sometimes, I am SO grateful, as I would never been able to share in these amazing experiences.

I am not even going to try to tell you about Baby Kaden. Please visit their blog, I know you will be as touched as everyone else.

Baby Kaden's Family Blog

Good Times in the ER

We all know, how I frequent the ER. Well...yesterday, was BY FAR the worst. I left my house around 12:30, and pulled into my driveway, at 10:50!!!!! IT WAS INSANE!!!!!!!! People just kept coming and coming and coming. We were in the waiting room, for almost 3 hours. Once we finally got in a room, we waited another hour, for the nurse to come in. But we had GREAT nurses, and an AWESOME doctor, even though I went through a "visiting resident" first. My little Jackie, is SO complicated...the Dr came in, and said, "I heard all about this kiddo, I had to come see him myself."

The first thing she asked me..." Are you worried about his shunt?" How great is that? And then, "What do YOU want us to do for him?" I loved her. She ordered chest X-rays, IV, Labs, and IV fluids. She as so good with Jack too.

Jack was so cute, and sick. He was such a trooper. Luckily, the IV went in first try. I told them of his past IV's and how putting it in his foot seemed to work best. And what do you know...they said...COOL!

We just decided, since his fever was coming down, his electrolights were good, and his lungs were clear, there really was nothing more they could do for him IN the hospital. So we came home. The on call Dr from our Peds office came in, and we decided to leave his IV in, and if he needed it, we could go in the office today, and get more fluids, or they could take it out. I felt good about that. Although...that little bugger woke up this morning, and wanted it out, and wasn't giving up till it was. So I took it out. Like I haven't seen enough IV's come out, to know how to do it. *rolling eyes* Parker thinks it the coolest thing ever, and plans on taking it to school for show and tell! haha

I slept in this morning...till like noon!! YAY!! In that time, his fever went back up, he laid down for a nap, and he's been asleep since, almost 3 hours. He was so sweet, I had to take a picture with my phone.

So anyway, That's today. Hopefully, it's all up hill from here!

Jack Update

They say a picture is worth a thousand words...



Remember in my last post, I said he was almost bad enough, to take in. Ya well, when you wake up from a nap with a temp of 104.9, I'm done. We got to the ER at 1:00 ish. It's now 8:10. So gross. I was told about a half hour ago, they were going to admit him. So far...he has an ear infection, his O2 sats, should be over 97, they are hovering around the 90, and he has gross digusting eyes. They are talking RSV, Adenovirus, or some strain of influenza. Knowing Jack, he has all three.

That last picture, is...well...my shirt. It was clean when we got here. *rolling eyes*

Since I started typing this, the Dr came back in, and said, the Dr on call, doesn't want to admit him. *sigh* He has a point. They don't want him catching something else. And he does seem to be feeling a little better.

Who knows what will happen. I just want to go to sleep.

So... much... fluid

There is stuff coming out of every hole Jack has. His fever seems to be going down, well not as high. That's something right? He is still SO SAD, and sleeps HORRIBLE! And the cough, is driving him nuts. Ya know how you go to cough, and try to hold it. Ya, he does that all day long. It's so sad. He's got goop in his eye, and coming out of his ears. So much for tubes. Although, they are apparently serving their purpose. And my DR office just called something in. I guess buggers coming out of the ear, doesn't need to be looked at! :)

I'm still on the verge of taking him to the ER. We all know how I love it there. I'm worried it might be R S V, or influenza. And there is something else we could do for him. I have the humidifier on, but it honestly doesn't seem to be doing anything. He won't eat, or drink, and makes me so worried, and then does. I don't know. Time will tell I guess. So far, his lungs sound ok. And he's eating/drinking enough, to keep him home.

I'll keep you posted. If you think I should do something different, tell me nicely. I'm too tired to take meanness. :)

Valentine Shmalentine

Happy Valentine's Day? I don't think so.

I have been so excited for Emma's first Valentine's Day at school. I signed up at the beginning of the year to co op that day. We got her valentines, they were princess with glitter tattoos. She's had a croupy cough all week, but I thought she'd be better for the big day! Um...no. She woke up at 4 am with a temp of 102.5. *sigh*

I've also spent the last two nights, up half the night, with sick Jack. He's had a horrible cough too, and keeps spiking a fever. Last night, it was 103.8. Isn't that lovely? I woke up DH, who was sleeping in Emma's bed, cuz sick kids were in our bed, and was ready to take Jack to the ER. But he really wasn't in any distress, it was mostly me. So we went back to bed. Oh, I should point out, we had a WICKED snow storm last night, so there was NO way I was going to drive up to the hospital, I was gonna call an ambulance. *rolling eyes*

So with all the sickness, Valentine's Day, has been a moo point. (be sure to click on the link for a laugh) I was not feeling well yesterday, so getting ready was just as miserable. My sweet Mom, went to school for Emma, and gave her Valentines, and brought Emma's home. So she still got her valentines, just not the fun way. :( Then Parker came home, high as a kite. Ugh...

So...Happy Valentines Day, I hope yours is/was better than mine! I know I know, turn it around...but I'm too tired. I hope my gift will be sleeping all night.

The Life and Times of Berry Elizabeth

When Emma was born, Dad took the boys to Build a Bear. They made her a bunny, and named her Berry Elizabeth. I took her picture with it, once a month for the first year! You can find the video here, and see them all. We did it with Jack also. His is neat, because he changed so much with 4 surgeries!

ANYWAY... I wanted to take a picture with Berry on her bday, but couldn't find her. The kids have a habit of taking stuff outside, so I told Parker to go on an adventure, and look for her. Let me remind you, we've had TONS of snow, so I really thought it would never happen! Well...HE FOUND HER!!! I really believe it was divine intervention. Here is the story in pictures, of bringing her back to life:

She was completely frozen, and FILTHY!

Getting her shower!

Relaxing in her bubble bath.

WHEW...That was a wild ride!! (check out all the dirt!)

After 4 showers, and bubble baths, she's finally reunited with her Mommy!! (who by the way, has a cold)

Happy Birthday KAYLEIGH!!!

I told ya it was a busy month. Well really, week!! We had Kayleigh's party on Sat. We went to get makeovers. it was so fun, and Emma FINALLY got a cool "do". Last year we did it, and Emma's hair just wouldn't cooperate! You can find the photos here. The rest of Emma's Bday photos are here.

We hadn't told anyone we were pregnant yet, when Tami called, and said..."I just thought I'd tell you guys, I'm pregnant! And Due Feb 14." I said..."Cool, I'm due the 10th!" It was fun being pregnant together, except that fact I'm ten years her senior. HAHA


Anyway, the girls are best of friends, and love being together. They spent the weekend together, and were SO CUTE! We were getting ready to go to dinner with the family, and the girls came out, and declared they were going to wear fancy dresses. Oh my...

KAYLEIGH!!!

Are you one of a kind??

I found this, traveling through blogs...

HowManyOfMe.com

There are 1,289 people with my name in the U.S.A. How many have your name?

Goodness. I love to be original. HAHA.... For the record, there are 1,416,533, people named Jennifer. I know...you're as shocked as I was! :)

Happy Birthday Kenz!!!

February is a busy Birthday month for us!! Emma was actually due today. And...today is my sweet nieces birthday. She was convinced Emma was going to be her birthday present!! We had to very gently tell her, she couldn't keep her!!

MCKENZIE!!! WE LOVE YOU!!!

I miss her SO MUCH! She is so caring and beautiful. She loves her family, and always wants to choose the right! She is the BEST missionary, and loves Jesus, and Heavenly Father. She turns 8 today! She is so excited to get baptized!

Goodness, my sister has an 8 yr old. Man...Suzi is OLD!!! ;) What does that make me??? hmmmm...

A song that was meant to be. *added video*

The news had told a little bit about this song, the day of Pres Hinckley's funeral. Then two different people sent me this today! I was SO touched I wanted to share it with you all. Here is a copy of the sheet music.

Here is video I took of the funeral on TV. It's really bad, you can hear Jack talking in the background, and see the reflection of my living room, but it really is meant just so you can hear the song. Enjoy!!



This is from an email from Janice Kapp Perry(the composer of the music) from before the funeral...

During President Hinckley's funeral, the Tabernacle Choir will be singing a hymn with text written by President Hinckley, which I set to music in December. I would like to share the story of it with you:

About two months before my niece Kathy Blacker died, on January 11, 2008, she found a three-verse poem by President Hinckley among her files. Although she was resigned to dying, she had some fears about the dying process and his words greatly comforted her—especially the second verse, which described exactly what she was feeling. She wrote to Pres. Hinckley's office to ask permission to have the poem printed on her funeral program, and she received a very nice letter from his secretary Don H. Staheli saying that President Hinckley gave his permission for her to do so. The letter also conveyed some very comforting words from Pres. Hinckley which were helpful to helpful to Kathy in her final weeks, and he said he would remember Kathy in his prayers.

Then Kathy suggested that I write and ask permission to give the poem a hymn setting. I did so, and Brother Staheli conveyed President Hinckley's permission for me to write the hymn. After offering some heartfelt prayers that I might be able to write appropriate music for his profoundly beautiful and moving text, I wrote the hymn setting and sent a copy to President Hinckley's office for approval at the end of December. I received no immediate response.

Kathy passed away January 11 and after her funeral I sent a copy of her funeral program to President Hinckley's office so he could see how nicely his poem was displayed along side my brother Gary Kapp's painting of Christ.

When I heard President Hinckley had passed away last Sunday night I was feeling a little sad to think I hadn't received a letter with his official approval. But the very next day after his passing, the hoped-for letter arrived with his approval, his permission for me to publish it in a future volume of my series Inspirational New Hymns for Choir and Home, and leaving it to my discretion as to whether to submit it to the Church Music Division. The timing was so unusual and I was extremely grateful to receive the letter as a tender mercy in my life.

Then on Monday afternoon Craig Jessop, Tabernacle Choir Director, heard about the hymn and had his office call me to obtain a copy of the hymn for consideration for President Hinckley's funeral. On Tuesday, while traveling in California, I learned that the hymn would be performed by The Tabernacle Choir at President Hinckley's funeral on Saturday.

Having seen the great comfort this hymn brought to my niece who died just two weeks before President Hinckley passed away, my great desire is for people throughout the world to have a free copy of these magnificent words of President Hinckley to comfort them in times of the loss of loved ones. This is just one more way his influence could be felt down through time.

I've been Tagged

A: The rules of the game are posted at the beginning.
B: Each player answers the questions about themselves.
C: At the end of the post, the player then tags 3 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

10 years ago:
- Tandem Nursing , I don't recommend it
- Wondering if my life would ever be more than having two babies at home
- Watching my boys grow in amazement
- laughing hysterically at Nick
- Dreaming of my little girl

5 things on my to-do list today:
- Dishes
- vacuum
- laundry
- Emma's KINDERGARTEN well check!!!!
- I guess I'll take a shower... ;)

Snacks I enjoy:
- Carrots and Ranch
- Swedish Fish
- A candy bar on the way home from the grocery store
- spiced gum drops
- dry cereal

What I would do if I were suddenly made a billionaire:
- Cry
- pay tithing
- give $150, 000 to Make it Right
- buy myself a house with 5 bedrooms and an apartment for my mom
- pay off, and extra on all my bills
- go NUTS at Costco

5 places I have lived:
- Wakefield, Ma
- Beverly, Ma
- LaCanada/Flintridge, Ca
- Boise, Id
- Fullerton, Ca


5 jobs that I have had:
1. Disneyland
2. Applebee's
3. Dress Barn
4. Beverly Hospital in Housekeeping and Transport
5. Playground Aide

5 Things people don’t know about me:
If there IS anything you don't know about me...it's on purpose! :)

I tag: People who need to update their blogs...you know who you are! :)

What the...?

Monday, I had the pleasure of testifying before the Health and Human Services Appropriations Committee. I did it last year too. Last year, I was "begging" for more money, for Early Intervention, DSPD, and Utah Birth Defects Network. It was tough, really tough. The stories people tell is heart wrenching. I have friends, who need services, and aren't getting it. Husbands can't work, so they can take care of their families, and so they can qualify for state assistance. It's so wrong. People who WANT to work and support their families, can't.

ANYWAY...this year, I volunteered, and was asked (by DDI, where Jack gets his services from) to testify, on behalf of Early Intervention. I pulled up my testimony from last yr, and realized, I wanted to plea for other things too, as well as tell them all the things EI has done for our family. They say it's good to give them something in writing, so I made them this letter(click on it to make it bigger), and summarized it, with Jack on my lap! He was SO good, and cute, and charming!

There were SO many people scheduled to testify-over 90, so the usual 2 min allotment was shortened to 90 sec. After we finished, a man came up to me, and said, "I am so and so, from the Deseret News, can I get your last name, and how old is Jack?" I don't remember his name, but he had a camera. And the ladies I was with, said Jack was totally "flirting" with the camera, while I was talking.

So of course I'm excited to see our picture in the paper! Well, much to my dismay, they used a different picture, but it was fine, they used a cute one. But the article... good grief. You can read it here. First of all, YOU all know, Jack is not 7!! Second of all, as you can tell from my letter, I didn't say that. Seriously. And the wonderful Egg analogy, was told by my good friend Luwenn. AND...the Autism Registry, was SO not the main focus of the meeting. We are all pretty bugged. Luwenn, already emailed everyone on the committee, and I intend on emailing the reporter, who needs to be held accountable for getting SO MANY facts wrong.

Can anyone out there think of anything else we could do!? Maybe a letter to the editor? Or should we just let it go?

I think this whole thing is what set off my mood...

I'm so excited!

I have been wanting to get Emma, and Jack a playhouse, for outside. I was looking for something else, and found some!

Here is all of them. Here is the one I'm getting for me, and My sister. The shipping is so cheap, I'll just have them ship it to her!

*rolling eyes*

Seriously, there single moms living on the street after fleeing an idiot husband, there are HOMELESS people in New Orleans. The Make it Right Foundation, can build a home for someone who lost their's in Katrina, for $150, 000.

And yet... selfish whiny bratty kids, who probably don't even appreciate it, are getting their "own homes", for almost the same price!

Makes me wanna puke...YOU?

I'm in a mood, can ya tell?

Warning Lable: I'm annoyed

Can I just tell you how sick I am, of people who don't shovel. When I was a crossing guard, there was a guy on the corner, who NEVER SHOVELED!!! He was in construction, so he would have his "guys" do it. Like at 9:00. HELLO!?!??! This guy knew school started at 8:40. The year I started, there was snow after snow, we had like 3 feet of snow, for 2 months. Every snow fall, the kids had to walk past this guys house to get to school in 4 inches of snow, and be soaking wet, by the time they got to school. Past this house, is the main entreance to the school. There were times, I had to use my stop sign, to move snow, so I had a place to stand, clear of snow. I will say, the guy on the other said...ALWAYS had it shoveled, before 8:00. He would even shovel into the street at the cross walk, you know, threw what the snowplow left!

But I digress. We have had SO MUCH SNOW... I was loving it at first, but now I am so sick of it!! At Emma's school, we haven't seen the sidewalks since before Christmas. And the playgrounds? Um ya...totally covered. Even where the buses park, the gutter is OVERFLOWING with dirty frozen snow/slush. I saw a bus there one day, and he pulled UP ONTO the sidewalk, so the kids would be safe. I unfortunately don't have that option. So I have to sludge through it, and pray I don't fall.

I have a friend who is blind. She can tell you all the places in our neighborhood, who don't shovel. It's dangerous to HER, and anyone else, even when they can SEE WHAT THEY ARE WALKING THROUGH!

I'm sick of people who think, "If I can drive over it, I don't have to shovel. " Um...ya...that's how it works.

I just love, light fluffy snow...over PACKED ICE!!! *rolling eyes*

So to all you out there who may come upon this.

PLEASE SHOVEL YOUR DA*N WALKS!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMMA!!!

Wow...5!!! Can't believe it. It's her GOLDEN BIRTHDAY! 5 on the 5th!!

I made this video for her 1st Birthday. If I get one done today, I'll add it tonight!



So Happy Birthday Sissy!! I love you SO MUCH!! You are the little girl I always wanted! You love the things I love, and I love hanging out with you!

I thank Heavenly Father for you EVERY DAY! You are so kind and loving, and beautiful, and talented, and smart, and brave!

I LOVE YOU EMMA JENNY!!!

I know why I can't sleep

It's 4:54am. I just realized, I probably can't sleep, because 5 years ago right now, and all night long, I was in labor, wondering why I had chosen to "go natural". Oye.

I had an appointment to check her fluid levels, and such. And the said the dreaded..."You're not going home." My first reaction was, "Can I go buy a diaper bag first? I'm not ready!" Of course they said no, and made fun of me.

She was fine, but my blood pressure was too high. My Mom had taken me, because I had a habit at that point, of going to appointments, and being told that. And Parker who was 5 at the time, was with us. It was in the afternoon, and he fallen asleep in the car on the way up there. So my Mom had to put him in a wheelchair, to get him up to my appointment. He slept though the whole appointment, and announcement. And I pushed him in the wheelchair over to Labor and Delivery, and told them I was there to have a baby. I can't tell you the funny looks I got. Once we got settled in, and they were all getting ready to leave, Parker curled up on the pull out bed, and said "Good Night!". To this day, it cracks me up! We explained the Mommy had to work really hard to get Emma to come out, and he was going home with Gramma.

So they started the induction at around 5:oo pm. All night long, they were slow and steady. We went for walks, around the floor, which only got more and more depressing, cuz every time we left our room, another room was empty.

I was doing SO great.Was totally on top of my contractions. We had chosen Hypnobirthing, and about 12 hours, it was amazing. Then around 7 am I hit transition, and lost it. Lost control, lost my mind, everything. I asked if I could get in the tub, maybe that would help. So they filled it up, and just before I went to get in, my midwife said, "Go to the bathroom first and I'll check you. So I do, and she says, "YOU'RE DONE!!!" I was like WHAT? Can't I get in the tub first? Um no...not gonna happen. I can still feel the warmth of the totally filled Jaccuzi, next to me. I felt bad too, for wasting all that water. Besides the fact, I had pushed for 2 hours with Parker.

After about 20 mins. the midwife said, reach down, and "Grab your baby!" I got to PULL EMMA OUT! I have it on video, don't worry, I won't put it on Youtube. It was one of the most glorious events of my life. She was SO BEAUTIFUL!!! And I had done it on MY TERMS!!! I cry EVERYTIME, I watch it.

This day is SO MUCH MORE than just Emma's birthday. It's the day I celebrate my perfect birth, and starting my life with the perfect daughter!!! ( I know, she's only five) ;)

A New First Presidency

A new day has come. What a wonderful time is on the horizon. I can't wait to see what these three men will do. Here is a statement I got off KSL:

"We will continue the commitment of those who have gone before us in teaching the gospel and promoting cooperation with people throughout the world, and in bearing witness to the life and mission of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ," President Monson said.

He added, "As a church, we reach out not only to our own people but also to those people of goodwill throughout the world in the spirit of brotherhood, which comes from the Lord Jesus Christ. I express my deep gratitude for these two men who will serve as my counselors. They're tireless and innovative workers completely dedicated to the Lord."

These men are embarking on a journey, at an age other men are retiring. It is amazing to me, what can be done with the Lords help!

What a great day!!!

It's hard getting old

So I have my speech prepared, for... "So who have been your influences musically?" Or, "Who did you listen to growing up?" Here it is:

"Karen Carpenter, Julie Andrews, and Whitney Houston. I try to take something from all of them. They are all very different, but the one thing they have in common, is when they sing, it seems to just fall out."

Karen was so beautiful, and taken from us way to soon. I think she is the one I try to sing most like. I have been told, I sound like her. It's the best compliment I can get!

Last week when I sang the National Anthem, I looked up Whitney singing it at the Super Bowl. Oh my...It makes me cry every time. I try to get some of her power, too bad she can't give me some! ;)

Amy sent this to me today:

To commemorate her birthday , actress/vocalist, Julie Andrews made a special appearance at Manhattan 's Radio City Music Hall for the benefit of the AARP. One of the musical numbers she performed was "My Favorite Things" from the legendary movie "Sound Of Music". Here are the lyrics she used:

(Sing It!) - If you sing it, its especially hysterical!!!

Maalox and nose drops and needles for knitting,
Walkers and handrails and new dental fittings,
Bundles of magazines tied up in string,
These are a few of my favorite things .

Cadillacs and cataracts ,and hearing aids and glasses,
Polident and Fixodent and false teeth in glasses,
Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings,
These are a few of my favorite things.

When the pipes leak, When the bones creak,
When the knees go bad,
I simply remember my favorite things ,
And then I don't feel so bad.
Hot tea and crumpets and corn pads for bunions,
No spicy hot food or food cooked with onions,
Bathrobes and heating pads and hot meals they bring,
These are a few of my favorite things.

Back pain, confused brains and no need for sinnin',
Thin bones and fractures and hair that is thinnin',
And we won't mention our short shrunken frames,
When we remember our favorite things.

When the joints ache, When the hips break,
When the eyes grow dim,
Then I remember the great life I've had,
And then I don't feel so bad.

Ms. Andrews received a standing ovation from the crowd that lasted over four minutes and repeated encores.


When I was living in California in 1991, I had the opportunity to play Maria in The Sound of Music. It was truly a dream come true. I watched the movie over and over, trying to be just like Julie Andrews. This morning I dug out the video, and Emma keeps saying..."You are so skinny!" She runs to me, and points..."BIG!" Then runs back to the TV. "LITTLE!" *rolling eyes*

Now... here's me singing it, the right way!



I share this with you for a couple reasons. When I first read the silly Julie Andrews version, I thought it was SO funny. Then I realized, how old my idol is...then I MUST BE OLD TOO!!!!! So I put the video on, to prove I was once young and SKINNY!!!!

ugh...Thanks a lot AMY!!!! ;)

oh no...

I got this from the Boston Globe


Well... What to say...

*sniff*

I mean 18 game winning streak HAS to mean something. Never done before. Come on people!!! Let's celebrate THAT!!!!

ya...maybe tomorrow.

GO PATS!!!

It's Superbowl time!! I have never been too much into sports, but Boston has had such an amazing year it was high time I got into it!

Personally I think the Patriots, shouldn't even have to play. I mean really, they won 18 games in a row! Never done before! Come on, just give 'em the trophy!

I'm actually kind of nervous. There is SO much riding on this. I mean, I usually cheer for the underdog, but this time, I will be struck by lightening if I do! And if New England loses, I'm afraid what will happen to those close to me. haha...

We are havin a party, me and my fam... I got everyting I could think of, to make a fun superbowl party. Well, left the beer at the store, but food wise...we are golden!!!!!! And I made myself a Patriots shirt! I ironed it on backwards, so I'll just have to stand in front of the mirror, to look good. *rolling eyes*

I said the closing prayer in choir today, and said, "Bless us to have a nice rest of the day." When I was done, I annouced to them, "I almost said 'Please bless the Patriots to win!'" haha...I crack myself up...

Emma's goings on...

I'm still figure out how to put all my feelings about Pres. Hinckley, into words. So in the mean time...

Here's a little about Emma's party, and our fun TV morning. In that last post, I never said when. It was yesterday. Sorry. It was so fun! Emma loved it. I'm still working on getting the video of when she was on. We were told we couldn't put pictures on the internet, I said, what if I put a watermark on it...he said that would be fine...so here ya go...



When we left we also met Ellen.;) I know, I'm a dork...you SO don't have to tell me!


Then today, we had her party. It was SO fun. We stole the idea, but it was great.We had a Jammie Party. It was early, 9:00, and everyone wore their Jammies. We had pancakes with toppings I let Emma pick out( just imagine) Juice and milk.
Then we decorated pillowcases with iron ons. I was going to get them on Ebay, but true to form, I didn't plan ahead far enough. So I just got a bunch of the internet, and made them at home. The kids loved it, and I even got to take their picture, and DH took the camera home(we had the party at church), and printed them, and brought them back, so I could iron them on, before they went home! It was FUN!! We opened presents, played a game, then went home!


Now for Tuesday, her actual birthday. I'm SO not ready. Starting to panic a little. I have a few things, if that's all there is...so be it! I'll keep you posted.

:)