Saturday is the day we get ready for . . .

Our Saturday's are jam packed. Here are some highlights from today. Keaton's flag football game was looking like it would be a pretty close one during the first half when the other team took the lead. Keaton caught a beautiful pass and ran in for the first TD. Then, fortunately, we pulled ahead with another Keaton TD (he scored 6 last week - the poor opponents had to be encouraged by out team to keep running). They finished with another solid win, muddy muddy cleats, and a big smile. Still UNDEFEATED!

Sadie's soccer team was a little less fortunate, but nonetheless had fun and smiles when it was all over. They are a new team that focuses on playing 2 quarters, rotating positions, and gaining experience. I keep asking her if she is liking soccer over the other activities that she has participated in, and she keeps saying yes, so I'll keep going to the soccer (not my favorite sport yet) games. She does look cute in her uniform.

Alex helped me do some cleaning in the kitchen - imagine Alex vacuuming behind the refridgerator? Me either. Don't think that this is my usual cleaning, it is just that I had a great helper, and boy what lurks behind a fridge is something to behold. He played video & computer games, played with Keaton, and even practiced the piano. He is really bored - he will probably suit up - for tonight's basketball game, but we will be careful. The team will miss Alex's 100% on the court tonight. Glen got a hair cut, and then began working around the house, grooming the trees for fall, and harvesting the final fruit off of the apple tree. We didn't spray that tree to well and so there were only about a 1/2 bucket of good fruit. The peach tree was fabulous, about 10 (5 gallon) buckets were picked, eaten, and given away. I love fresh peaches. He and Keaton mowed the lawn - Keaton is getting into that - of course if there is a monitary incentive, that helps.

All the while, Sadie decides that she wants to take up baking today. So that is exactly what we did. I sat down and she did the baking. She made Oreo pie, and zucchini bread ALL BY HERSELF with exception of the oven, and grating the zucchini, she honestly did it all. She was talking and smiling and having a great time. We will call her Betty from now on ;) I love teaching her to do these things and she loves doing them. Forgot to mention, she even offered and completed cleaning ALL of the toilets! Where did she come from?

We still have another basketball event tonight. That really seems like a calm Saturday to me, or maybe I am just used to the running around. It is nice to know that we have such awesome kids that are healthy and strong, and enjoy the many events and activities that we have together. I couldn't imagine being any busier than we are now, but I would'nt have it any other way.

Alex expecting BIG returns from the Tooth Fairy

I suppose you could say that this week has been a little stressful for us at home as we were preparing, debating, scheduling for another big oral surgery for Alex. Because he has already had his wisdom teeth (4) taken out at age 12, he knew what he was getting into. The poor guy. He told me that he was going to run away that day, and I frankly, didn't blame him for wanting to do just that. Finally, the day was here, and fortunately, the Dr. offered to provide Alex with a little "mood stabilizer" for the day before we arrived at the office. Alex said that he couldn't tell any effect from the medicine, however, I really could, he was so mellow, still some anxiety coming out, but very mellow. He even told the Dr. that he wanted a tattoo across his chest saying "mother". THAT was funny! Even funnier, at home after the surgery, trying to wake up, he was checking out his face, his nose, and even looked at his chest. I told him that he was ripped off, and should get his money back.

Glen carried him from the office to the car and into the house. Who knew that the old man had those muscles? WOW! Alex did great during the surgery, only some nausea following from the anesthesia, but slept for a good long time and all night without ANY pain meds. This boy has one strong constitution. The next day he woke up feeling a little sore on the bottom jaw where they drilled to put in bone graphing, but ready to move on. It is hard trying to keep a 13+ year old "down and quiet with soft foods only" for at least 72 hours. He is up and around and even so bored that he helped me do some deep cleaning. I wonder what else I can get him doing?

This is Sadie's sweet note to Alex.

He is an amazing kid, I am so proud of him and his courage and strength through this all. He has only taken minimal medication and has not even complained - except that we hope that his bottom lip returns to life soon.

Maybe he will have something else in common with Grandma Susan.

Baptism Day

Sadie had an early morning photo opportunity with our neighbor taking her pre-baptism photos. She got up early to have our other friend braid her hair (cuz I can't, and I didn't want pony tails afloat) and then some photos by our neighborhood professional photographer. You can see more of her photos at http://www.pmphotoart.com/ under "public galleries", then "family portraits" then scrolling down you will find Sadie. She is so beautiful and it was so fun. After the 30 minute photo shoot, she said to Pete the photographer "this is so much better then school pictures", to which Pete responded with a gracious thank you. I couldn't wait to share my favorites. Her baptism day went without any hitches, except that the stake person thought her name was Sarah and presented her as such. The music, the poem, the speakers, and the DVD presentation, were all perfect. Aunt Jana started us off on a spiritual note and we didn't stop crying. It was a very spiritual feeling to see someone you love enter the waters of baptism. She said after "the Holy Ghost is heavy mom". Keaton and Alex read an awesome poem written by Aunt Marti that really brought the feeling into the day. Keaton is so tender and sensitive, he couldn't compose himself much throughout the poem, so our strong, shakey-voiced Alex, had to carry it alone. They are very good to Sadie. We had a nice lunch at home, and then took a little bit of a nap! I was tired! Then we loaded up the left overs and took them to the Proctor reunion. How's that for re-gifting a salad! Congratulations Sadie! We love you very much.

HAPPY 8TH BIRTHDAY SADIE!

Today is Sadie's 8th birthday. Boy did that fly by! So does that mean that I have to start working on getting rid of the baby fat? We started the morning with the traditional breakfast in bed. She is so excited to be baptized tomorrow. I will fill you in on the details later. But here are 8 reasons that I love Sadie.

1. She has always had the most beautiful big eyes.
2. She is strong and determined, and can keep up with the boys.
3. She is sensitive to others feelings - even her brothers'.
4. She is excited about being with me and doing things together even if it is working in the kitchen. She is a master chopper!
5. She makes friends easily and her friends love her.
6. She has great ideas and is very creative.
7. She is girly.
8. She wakes up in the morning and needs a little cuddling before she begins her day.

Today is a big day and I have a lot going on to prepare for tomorrow. Some call it control - freak, anal, or OCD, but I call it "this is my only little girl who is turing 8 once who needs a great day and a wonderful baptism day tomorrow - and I wouldn't have it any other way for her, she deserves it". That's my rationale and I'm sticking to it.

BACK TO SCHOOL!

With the end of summer comes the anticipation for a new year at school. We have waited and worried about our teachers, who is in our classes, what my schedule is, where my locker is, how to get out of French, and making sure I don't have the one algebra teacher this year. Finally, the day has come and the kids did all of the exciting things that mean school is starting. They laid out their clothes for the next day, they went to bed early with smiles, they got up early and without complaint, and with time to spare, counted the minutes until they could walk down the street.

We have typically had a tradition of going out to breakfast - usually at Burger King - on the first day of school. However, since Alex had to be at school at the crack of dawn - okay 7:15 - we decided to forgo breakfast in the morning, and have a celebration breakfast out in the evening. So after the days big events, calling mom and dad after school, and jumping into any possible homework on the first day, we headed off to Villiage Inn, AND to get additional last minute school supplies that were requested by teachers. T

he kids all had great days, Alex had a little problem with his locker, but figured that out. Alex loves his Spanish teacher and dreads his Science. Keaton loves his teacher and they can sit "anywhere" they want "any" day! Sadie loves her teacher, is making new friends, and is eager to do art. I am so glad that our kids like school, are social and friendly, and overall enjoy what they are learning. I think they really enjoy recess and lunch too! I enjoy the routines and structure that comes with school. It seems that while we have a lot to do, we can get it all in. It is getting into the schedule that is a little trying. I have become another drill sargeant at night but I'll settle in. I just want to make a public announcement thought . . . this year I didn't even cry!

P.S. Alex left for school before I got the camera out. This little guy is Joe - our awesome neighborhood friend.

More Sun Anyone?

Before school started we wanted to have an "end of the summer" day with the kids so we decided to head off to Raging Waters. We all took the day off, packed a cooler full of munchies and we were off. We got there shortly after it opened and hit the slides and wave pool. About an 85 degree day, and already tanned, who wanted sunscreen? We climbed and swam and slid and rode the waves until closing time. While Alex was thinking about the girls around us, Keaton was actually picking up some girls. They invited him on the slide with them! What can I say . . . the boys are hot! I think by the end of the day we were all watered out and didn't think we were really sunburned . . . until evening when we all discovered that we were glowing in the dark. Even dark Keaton and Alex were burnt to a crisp. Glen had not had much sun this summer and he was hurtin'. A week later and we are all shedding a layer or two of skin. I am so proud of Sadie, she is so brave. She keeps right up with the boys in all of their activities, and kept up at the water park too. She fell asleep in a tube at the wave pool she was so tired. I think we all had a great day! Now, onto school! Glen and Alex enjoying the waves. Sadie takes on the rope and crosses with ease. Keaton and Alex working together to make it across. Keaton, Sadie, Alex crossing the floating snake?

Camping?

Our ward had an activity night at Albion Basin campground last weekend. We went up for hiking, smores, campfire activities, and friendship. I can't tell you how good Sadie is at making just the perfect golden roasted marshmellows. I think I ate more than enough. We hiked through the many trails with some of the ward children and shared campfire stores with neighbors. It was really cool up there, a nice break away from the heat of Salt Lake. You can tell by the zipped up hoodies and jackets we have on. This photo is the first family photo that we have had in a very long time. It is not super, but it is what we have. Can you believe how tall Alex is getting?

Back from CAMP!

I think today is the day that I have finally caught up on my sleep deprivation from camp. We had such a great time after the rain stopped on the first day! That was admitedly my biggest nightmare, but after several hours of rain, and mud, we got the camp set up and then the rain stopped. I was nervous at first when I arrived thinking, "I don't really know these girls", and when they began singing the fun camp songs, yes, songs with actions, I thought to myself "am I supposed to be silly too?" Being there made me feel young again and fun. So, I decided that I would throw caution to the wind and be young and silly again. That made all of the difference in the world. The girls were fabulous and amazing. Everything that was planned went off without a hitch. The only thing that wasn't planned was that it is a tradition, unbeknownst to me, to decorate the camp director. Having some serious fashion designers in our camp was helpful. They decorated me in left over plastic table cloths, and ribbon and tulle. I was a hottie - seriously, one hour wrapped in a long plastic dress - talk about sweaty. The designer girl reminded me that as a model I had no opinion, and when I opened my mouth, she would quickly say "who's the model?" It was such a great time and we have a lot of memories and new relationships. I hope to post photos soon. On the way home all I could think about was planning for next year. I am so lucky to have been placed in this position, it has been so fulfilling and awesome to feel the spirit that is always present at Girls Camp. Glen and the kids were fending for themselves all week - actually - for many days prior - they were so patient and kind with their encouraging words and help. They managed throughout the week well, or so I am told. It was even more thoughtful when I came home, Glen had planned the afternoon for them to be out of the house so that I could get a much needed nap! Isn't he awesome! Oh, I can't forget to mention, the camp pranks. We were told that no pranks would be allowed at all. So, being that the girls were so good in their obedience, I decided to pull just one prank on the final night with some of the leaders. Allowing the girls to execute the prank, I supplied the items. We did the - put teething gel on the cup rims - which made the mouth numb! It was absouletly successful, and hilarious, except the part when we got in trouble by the stake. I took immediate responsibility, because it was absouletly my doing. It was absouletly perfect! Can't wait for next year!

Lazy Days of Summer

Okay, so it has been a very very long time since the last post, not that we have done anything amazing or gone to any far off places to report about. What have we done with our summer? We took the Tazers Basketball team to Cedar City for the Summer Games in June. That was a blast with the friends and families of the Tazers. Check out Glen's Tazer blog: Tazerball.blogspot.com is his address. He keeps it up better than me . . . I think I have created one good looking blogger! Alex's team took the Gold Medal and while the competition wasn't huge, it was at least competitive for the first 2 quarters of the games they played. Alex did awesome. I can really see how his basketball skills have improved this year, his handling and shooting are more refined. I am sure that he takes after me . . . and has a good coach too! Alex finally finished 7th grade, and is SO ready to be an 8th grader. He finished the year with a 3.8 GPA - I couldn't be more proud. We'll see what next year brings with 2 honor classes, he may have to begin studying. Keaton finished up with 4th grade, and had a great year. He isn't playing ball this summer, but has had fun with the dogs, the neighborhood friends, and the trampoline. Yes, they are still jumping off of the deck onto the trampoline. Can't wait for the first set of stitches . . . it is bound to happen. I have found that Keaton is a "saver", he knows that if he works around the house he will earn money, and before you know it, Keaton has saved $20. He loves to go to garage sales with me on Saturday mornings, and is usually the one making the good deals! Sadie, well what can I say about my little sweety. She plays with the neighbor, Joe. They go to school, church, art class, and play daily together. It reminds me of my best childhood friend Joe. They act more like brother and sister than neighbors/friends. It is funny to listen to them. I hope they stay friends for a long time. She is taking some time away from cheer because we will be out of town for several of the meeting times. She will begin again in August. I have given each child a piano assignment each week. They are still working on the first one of the summer. I have not been very consistent with them. But I still find that they tinker around on the piano when they have some free time. As far as the deck, Glen and Alex completed the east stairs, cement landing, and new sod. I hope the sod grows, I am SO tired of sand in the house, in the cars, on the floor, in the laundry, in the shoes . . . just EVERYWHERE! We were told that before our house was built, it WAS the sand pile for the neighboorhood boys. GREAT! Glen is working hard, taking some well deserved time away from basketball, and getting the "to do" list "done"! He is a good sport though, never complaining about what I ask him to do, and never complains about my back seat driving . . . or snoring !!!! He has been so supportive with my goings on about camp, camp, and camp! He tutored me on starting a fire and maintaining it. I have a fire wand - who needs flint and steel? He is cutting out my craft wood for camp, and doing a great job! Thanks to him for handling the kids and household jobs when I am running around with my head cut off as I get camp going next week. I love them all so much, they are awesome, and beautiful!

The Incredible Deck

Here are the updated photos of the latest progress on the deck. As you can see, it has become our south wing of the house. We all worked on it this week, and have tired hands, backs, and knees to show for it. Keaton initiated the deck today by falling off, when he wasn't paying attention. I guess we really need that railing Glen! We have only got the stairs, a couple more flooring boards, the railing, the lattice, and some staining, and we've got ourselves a party waiting to happen. Bring on the sun!