Patterson Peeps

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-29T20:13:00.000-06:00

Can you believe how big Sam is??? I haven't put up enough pictures of Sam. He is so fun. Rolling, cracking up, growing teeth, drooling gallons, 18 lbs!

The Coach, The Players, The Ball, and The Uprights. We may be a little obsessed.

Life is good.

A budding writer...

2011-10-28T15:29:00.000-06:00

One of my seminary students has been working hard on an essay for a class she is taking at Ohio University! She asked me if I would share it on my blog! Happy to! She has some great insights! Enjoy!

Young Mothers Influenced by 'Mommy Bloggers'?

Retrieved from personal archives

I was talking to a friend the other day, who is both a young mother and an avid blog-reader. She mentioned how blogs by mothers might impact younger mothers to feel inadequate if they do not have the wonderful life described by the bloggers.I was struck by this observation, and thought about several blogs that I follow; they could fit the statement. In my personal experience, I envied some of the vacations and opportunities some bloggers had, but I found it hard to believe their blogs had such a strong impact. Yet, the matter disturbed me: do blog writers, specifically mothers, have persuasive power over their readers ? If so, is it due to critical views, or carefree, cheerful blogs?

The matter perplexed me. Seeing how blogs have come to play a substantial role in today's networking, I wanted to find out what others said about blogs' influence. One contributor to George Mason University's course material, Heidi Lawrence, asserts her claim on blog authors' power over their readers:

Every possible personal oddity imaginable is confessed over these thousands of blogs. Their readers reply by sympathizing, agreeing, respectfully disagreeing, or reciprocating the confession by relating their own moment of weakness or sin... the use of confession rhetorically...enables the speaker to contribute to and become part of the community of bloggers...by subverting the power structure...—confession does not result in discipline, judgment, or punishment—it engages the reader through further confession, agreement, dissent, or even non sequitur discourse. In short, the confessions result in fostering community through interaction, no matter what the tenor of that interaction might be, because the confession appeals to the reader in a way that persuades the reader to respond. (19)

Lawrence explains that the authors influence readers through a confession that the writer makes through a blog. Not only do blogs allow a place to vent and share news, but they create a connection between the writer and followers; readers feel sympathetic and can immediately respond to posts. Chelsea-Kay, the author of the blog Media in Focus, agrees by relating that blog authors manage to influence readers on various topics because "blogs have become a vital part of the internet aesthetic." And as blogs have come to play a leading role in the 'guidelines of the internet', they have a stronger influence in shaping readers' opinions. That influence grows as readers learn to trust the writer. But, what motivates the reader to follow blogs?

In a research experiment, Huang, Chou, and Lin studied blog readers' motives for following blogs. They found three main motives: affective (or emotional) exchanges; information search and entertainment; and fun. They found "readers who focus on affective exchanges tend to believe messages on blogs, interact with bloggers, and spread messages to others...The information search and entertainment [motivated] blog readers who focus on information can find something they trust, and blog readers who read just for fun similarly believe blogs are a trustworthy medium..." (Huang 354). I understand that reading blogs is like connecting with the author, but I grew up with technology and am more comfortable browsing the web, scanning blogs and becoming acquainted with bloggers' opinions than generations before me may be. Does that gap in age have to do with the confidence younger generations have in the internet and blogs?

In comparison of how my mother dabbles in the blogging world, and her adept inability to understand much of the new technological capabilities, she spends less time on blogs than Emily P., a new mom. As a report by Krayewski on the study entitled "Why Y Women?" explains that the rising generation, Gen Y, women were "found to be more influenced by blogs – those written by professionals, as well as those written by people with whom the women can identify." This growing influence of blogs on the rising generation corresponds to the increase in usage of social media networks that allow people to share opinions, information, and gossip, whether it be anonymously or not. And because of the confession aspect of blogs, a personal bond between the author and reader becomes stronger, which increases the influence the author has, as the reader develops trust in the writer.

How then, can mothers impact others by blogging? Lee-Ann Khoh says, "The blog has enabled more and more ordinary citizens to become "manipulators" of information and the media. Bloggers have the freedom to express themselves however they like, whenever they like." While some mothers use blogs as a way to share happy details, or the exciting events that happen, some use blogs as a mode of venting their struggles, worries, and mishaps from the view of a parent. Both types of blogging styles may manipulate, or influence, readers' opinions about motherhood, depending on how it is represented in blog posts.

Retrieved from personal image archives.

3703pattersonplace.blogspot.com

How often do you see pictures like that on the left where a child is clearly notenjoying life, as opposed to pictures similar to the one on the right, where a child is in all-innocence, completely happy?Some mother bloggers may wish to keep circumstances that are not all 'fine and dandy' to themselves; others don't mind sharing--negative experiences can help mothers reading the blog to learn from them. One mother blogger, Allison, describes her situation without camouflaging any unpleasant aspects of her life:

Motherhood is a multifaceted job – much like a gemstone that you hold in your hand turning in the light watching the angles and corners and surfaces glimmer and shine different, unexpected ways, only with more poop. As a mom I’m both hero and villain. I’m playmate and disciplinarian, teacher and student, and a bunch of other less glamorous things like...insomniac, bathroom coach...I have more roles than I can list because new ones arise every day. Am I an expert nail cutter, splinter-getter-outer? I am now. And, as a feather in my lovely mom-cap, as one last sexy thing I do, I plunge toilets. Often.

As she states her role so openly, Allison shares with her audience not the wonderful world of motherhood that others should aspire to, but her reality, which includes many unfavorable jobs. Because Allison discusses many hardships she faces, her readers will not be influenced into feeling dismal about their own abilities as mothers; but rather, they can take comfort that things do not always happen as planned. I do not find her blog negative; it relates blurbs from her everyday life that characterize her family's personality, struggles, and triumphs in a way that does not idolize her role as a mother, neither does it condemn motherhood, despite ever-present trials. An example of a trying time for a mother is shown in the video below. A mom blogger Katie, put together an entertaining video for her blog, showcasing her son and his unwillingness to eat solids, which frustrated Katie. She shows her readers that life is not all-fun-all-the-time, but that raising a child is hard work. However, she does so by connecting to her readers using a comical approach. Perhaps the technique of humor is a way to take her exasperating experience, such as baby Kai's refusal to eat solid foods, and try to make it into a better situation.

katieandjyri.blogspot.com

Despite what I had learned about blogs and their influence, I was still unsure if 'mommy blogs' truly affect younger mothers. But then I came across the blog of a Media Arts student that reviewed and analyzed a presentation by C. Jane Kendrick. The author of the blog, David, says, "Mommy blogs that are not an accurate representation of motherhood (either in a utopian or dystopian way) are not empowering." What he is saying is that blogs representing only the good or the bad, fail to influence with the same power because they are ineffectual in illustrating the complete picture of motherhood. This was a new idea to me, that, perhaps, 'mommy blogs' need to have the whole story to be influential.

During my conversation with my friend, I asked if blogs depict a seemingly ideal life, affected her as a mother. She laughed and replied, "Life isn't that perfect." I agreed with her answer; everybody faces hard times, even if they choose not to broadcast it to the world. And her response supports David's statement, as the blog proved to be unable to influence her. Then I realized that she is now a mother of three, so could it be that she was more influenced when she was starting out as a new mother? She pondered this and responded that her attentiveness to the 'cheesiness' (as she called the too-cheery impression some blogs give) and detecting how the story was embellished to add interest, not influence was not as fine-tuned at first, but that her opinion took time to form, as she gained her own experiences as a parent.

Throughout the research process, I continually looked to the young moms that I know to give me insights into their blogging world. Many times I grew frustrated as their answers did not match with what I believed was the 'right answer,' that of course the blogs influence them because of either a general negativity in the blogs they read, or a too-perfect world that some bloggers write about. Not until reviewing the scholarly articles with the blogs, as well as these moms' responses, that I realized the blogs with the most impact on mothers are the ones that display motherhood in all its glory and hardships, those that do not bury true insights into motherhood. For those are the blogs that will provide the most guidance and comfort for new mothers, and those are the blogs that will truly have a great influence.

Works Cited

Huang, Li-Shia, Yu-Jen Chou, and Che-Hung Lin. "The Influence of Reading Motives on the Responses after Reading Blogs." CyberPsychology & Behavior 11.3 (2008): 351-355. Print.

Lawrence, Heidi. "Bless Me Blogger, for I Have Sinned: Community and Rhetoric of Confession in the Genre of the Blog." ENG 503: Theory and Practice of Editing class of the English MA program. George Mason University. print.

Oh What FUN!

2011-09-09T12:47:00.000-06:00

1. Henry started preschool!
He has been waiting for this day for a LONG time. He had NO hesitation. When I went to pick him up today his teacher said laughing, "He asks a lot of questions, mom!" Then I watched them read the last story of the day and Henry wouldn't stop talking! The poor teacher couldn't even get through the book! "Hey! Why do you have a big book? Hey! Hey! We have that book! Hey! That's a cocoon!" So on the way home we had a discussion about keeping our lips zipped until the end of the story. And not to 'hey' anybody.

2. We were there!

With the big boys and the dog under excellent care, Spencer, Sam, and I drove to ATLANTA GEORGIA to meet my brother Mason and his family for the BSU game against U of Georgia. It was AWESOME. Masons in-laws live there. We ate buffalo burgers at Ted's, stayed up late playing BANG! (I won), and rode/ran/walked the trail that goes to Alabama. We had a blast staying at their house. And Sam hung out with his close-in-age cousin, Kingsley while we went downtown to the Georgia Dome The fact that they won was icing on the cake. Tons of BSU fans came. My ears were ringing for 2 days because it was so loud. Good times.

King and Sam. BFFS.

p.s. I'm the new seminary teacher. Yes, the up-at-the-crack-of-dawn-to-teach-the-old-teastament-to-8-teenagers-seminary-teacher. I'm loving it so far. The best perk: I'm dressed by 6am!

Another milestone!

2011-08-25T21:00:00.000-06:00

KINDERGARTEN!

What a day. My first babe is so big. He was born for kindergarten. He could not wait. He has been sleeping with his backpack. We all missed him today. The amazing thing is that this is Grant's first year of school and Spencer's last. Well, at least he will always remember that wild Transformers shirt. (You should have seen the preppy outfit I picked out.) So proud of you, buddy.

(Notice a sneaky Henry streaking through above.)

We had a little school surprise party when he got home. Henry and I made cupcakes. I stocked up on office supplies and made a couple crates for homework and projects.

.... and Spencerpants ran a half marathon. hottie.

... and baby Sam is my other boyfriend.

2011-07-07T15:15:00.001-06:00

Boy, oh boy.

2011-06-07T20:21:00.000-06:00

Samuel Warr Patterson

May 30th, 2011

9 lbs. 9.6 oz!

My favorite posts ever have been about our boys. Now we have THREE! I have three kids? I have three kids! I just wonder why we are so lucky to get THREE healthy, handsome, perfectly perfect boys!

Quick story about Sam's arrival:

We knew he was big from the 36 and 38 week ultrasounds. The size of my belly sealed the deal (43 cm!). So we planned for induction on Memorial Day (a week early from our due date). At 4am, while the boys were at a sleep-over, we went to the hospital. They started pitocin at 5am. Guess what time I had my epidural? 6:30am! Yes! The anesthesiologist wanted to give it to me before his big surgery that day and I was SO glad! Seriously! I wanted to run through the halls and shout: I LOVE EPIDURALS! At 8am they broke my water and he was born at 10:37a. The doctor (who was wearing cowboy boots and wranglers under his gown) knew exactly what to do getting this big baby safely out! He later told me that my limit is really 9 lbs. ;) Sam and I are doing great. I feel good. Sam is just fat and happy. He only wakes up once at night!

The boys are doing pretty well with a baby in the house. Henry would take care of Sam all day if he could. Grant is a little less interested. He said, "Mom, I already know that Sam is going to drive me crazy because Henry drives me crazy." Right now they are having a blast with Grandma Gaye in the house! I love these days. May they linger on.

So here are the pictures. My friend asked me, "Isn't it so fun having a crush on your own baby?" Yes. I am so in love. Again.

What We've Been Up To...

2011-05-17T20:54:00.000-06:00

EASTER

Yes, Grant got a camping shovel for Easter. He was thrilled! HAHA!

7 months along.

GRANT TURNED FIVE

Camping with dad for his birthday. Grant takes camping very seriously. He loves loves loves it!

Grant using his shovel. ;)

SPRING

We enjoyed the cherry blossoms again this year.

How many more days??? Due June 5th.

Spring Break

2011-04-07T16:46:00.001-06:00

Did you know Ohio is home to the BIGGEST indoor water park?? It is!

We were anxious to break the boredom between Winter and Spring and check it out. It was a huge SUCCESS as you can see....

Let's catch up...

2011-04-01T08:34:00.000-06:00

Henry turned three! We celebrated early because Spencer went to Guatemala for 10 days with his Dad for a dental service trip. Instead of a party, later that week I took the boys to the Columbus Zoo.

(Spencer had the camera -- sorry no pics)

One of my favorite mom things to do is get ready for the birthday the night before. I hang up the little decorations and wrap the presents for the table and I can't wait to see their faces in the morning! We eat a big breakfast and open all the presents and there is no question that today is their SPECIAL DAY!

Grant made Henry a huge card. Too huge to color, he said.

Henry wanted a BSU helmet like his big brother. Let the injuries begin!!!

Henry wanted CAKE instead of Cupcakes! My own son!

I used a cake and frosting mix from Trader Joe's. It was SO good!

We love you, sweet boy.

Conversations with Grant

2011-02-18T18:48:00.000-07:00

1.
"Mom, is Jesus really small?"
"No, he is normal size, maybe like Daddy size."
"Then how can he live in my heart?"
"Well, He lives in heaven and gives you good feelings in your heart."
"Oh!"

2.
(Grant calls dad on the phone)
"Dad, can we have a little chat?"
"Sure, Grant, what do you want to chat about?"
"Do you know what I did at school today?"
"What?"
"I played the organ!"
"Wow!"
"Yeah, one of the notes sounded like a really high whistle, and the other one sounded like a REALLY BIG MONSTER TOOT!"
(Then he laughs and laughs. Spencer too.)

Henry is in the house.

2011-02-04T18:58:00.000-07:00

Henry is almost three. His mellow-ness keeps him flying below the radar most of the time, but he has just as much to say and do as his big brother (minus the volume).

He is pretty much potty trained and expects a penny for the little m'n'm dispenser every time and says, "Thanks mom, you're the best!"

He is the first out of bed every morning and eats everything I put in front of him. I wish everyone had a Henry. He is a sweetheart!

"Let's have three crazy boys!" -- Grant

2011-01-18T21:06:00.000-07:00

We are having a BOY!

AND... Spencer is 30!

Christmas Pictures 2010

2011-01-01T14:23:00.000-07:00

We are keeping the tradition of decorating a tree in the woods on Christmas Eve!

Shaving with "whip cream"

2010-12-29T20:33:00.000-07:00

We do have Christmas pictures but this video happened to be uploaded first. Grant received a shaving kit from Grandma Gaye and has taken very good care of it. He takes it very seriously and I wanted everyone to see him do it!

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO!

Joy! Joy! Joy!

2010-12-24T19:23:00.002-07:00

Snow much fun!

2010-12-20T08:38:00.000-07:00

The sleds are the most popular thing at our house! It is fun to see them do more dangerous/big boy stuff.

Spencer fried another turkey over the weekend... yum. Merry Christmas!

How about a new post?

2010-12-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

Hello everybody! You are thinking: WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN!!?!?!?!

We have been really good :) Sorry about the long pause... I've been reminded that we live too far away from family to not blog about our kids and stuff.

Here is a video of Grant from last night. He missed several days of school because we were sick, so it was so funny to watch him try to follow along on the songs he didn't know. :)

YOU TUBE LINK HERE.

Most of you already know, but we are expecting a new baby in June... yes, I want a girl. Or a boy.

Grant's 4th Birthday!

2010-05-16T21:07:00.002-06:00

This birthday has taken FOR EVER to arrive!!! He has been SO excited to be four. 'Four' brings new superpowers, you know! We made Monster Cookies (Grant's favorite) for his preschool class and cupcakes for our campout (Yes of course I bring cupcakes into the great outdoors). He tells everyone he is four now. And all of his good behavior has been credited to the fact that he is four. No, THIS is the best age. I told him to stop growing now.

(Thanks for the inspiration, Natalie!)

Monster Cookies

-- Lindsey Rose

Cream:

1 C butter

3 C peanut butter

2 C sugar

2 C brown sugar

Add:

1/4 C corn syrup

4 tsp. baking powder

6 eggs

Stir in:

9 Cups Oats

1 lb bag MnMs

12 oz. bag choc. chips

12 min. @350. MAKES 8+ Dozen!

Bubble Gum!! Mmmmm Boy!

2010-04-22T20:44:00.001-06:00

Grant loves bubble gum!!!

So, if you haven’t noticed, the rate at which Emily has updated the blog has seriously decreased over the last several months. I know she is a busy woman. If you consider only the things she does for me on a daily basis, you would concur. She’s the best wife! Seriously! But, I have to admit that I miss reading her blogs. There is something cool about organizing parts of life in a blog. So, in a sort of selfish way, I have decided to take control of her blog. Check out this AWESOME VIDEO.

Grant has become quite the producer. He learned this song at pre-school and just busted it out the other day while we were eating dinner. It was pretty awesome. So in this video, he is putting on a truly soulful performance. And he did his own camera work!

Spring has Sprung... and Easter too.

2010-04-04T19:47:00.006-06:00

Happy Easter!!

No training wheels

2010-03-30T19:20:00.006-06:00

Grant asked us to take off his training wheels last week. He is SO happy with himself, feeling like such a big kid. It is going to be such a fun year riding around with Grant on his own bike! He already went on a long (3 mile) ride with dad! Enjoy the videos! (the second one was late last Fall. Sorry about the jerky video taking)

HENRY TURNS TWO!!!

2010-03-17T16:12:00.005-06:00

We love our sweet little two year old. He is polite and self-soothing and easy to please. He still snuggles with his mommy and he patiently tolerates his older brother. What more could we ask?
On reading this, Spencer wanted me to add that Henry recently gave him a little "thank you" when Spencer put him to bed.

Celebrating his birthday was more for us than for him. Of course he didn't know when he woke up that he was two but when he saw the decorations he gave an enthusiastic, "WOW!".

I love this barely two-year-old Henry. Remembering when he was born.... Click.
Sometimes I wish time would stop. I am so grateful to have this happy little face in my life.

Thanks for all the fun presents, cards, and phone calls from the grandma's, grandpa's, friends, and family!

December Highlights... Better late than never!!!

2010-01-30T19:50:00.000-07:00

Just a little picture album.... I guess I've run out of gas for blogging!!!

Hello there.

2010-01-19T18:49:00.003-07:00

Don't worry, we are alive. Blogging just always gets bumped to the bottom of the list! But I have a minute to tell you about this FANTASTIC-looking documentary coming out!!

Chicago 2009

2009-11-24T19:12:00.010-07:00

A couple weeks ago, Spencer had a conference to attend in Chicago. We packed up the mini van and met my brother and his wife who flew in from Rexburg. Spencer's old friends from Twin hosted us in Chicagee. They were so nice to let a bunch of strangers cramp their style for a few days. If you every need someone to plan your vacation for you, I know a girl. *wink* Thanks Natalie! Here are some pictures in random order:

First things first: Cupcakes. The pumpkin caramel was our favorite!

Mason and Spencer in "The Bean"

Waiting for the L (elevated train) on our hot date to eat. (We had a convincing babysitter)

This is what we ate!!! (Jackie's Chocolate Bag at the RED LIGHT) A MUST!!!

We took the kids (four boys) to the Children's Museum (free on Thursdays) at Navy Pier. It was so cool!

Downtown stroll. Apparently, the weather was freakishly warm. Meant to be, I say.

The Chicago Zoo (Free). The non-living tractor was the big hit.

Loriann and I in the train. Her first train ride!!

This picture is deceiving. These boys liked each other more at a distance.

This is Aaron. He is a fancy-pants lawyer in downtown Chicago. Spencer is a little cooler for being his buddy.

This is my new friend Natalie. Cool-mommy-trip-planning-stocking-embroidering-fun-loving-extraordinaire.

And a few more pics not needing a caption:

Thanks for your help with the kids, guys. Let's do another destination-reunion again!

Chicago is still my favorite city. Last time was so different because we didn't take any kids. And I was pregnant. But the family version of Chicago was equally memorable. I heard rumors Oprah was moving. I wonder if I will still like Chicago... hmmm.

Funny Fall

2009-10-31T09:18:00.016-06:00

Here are some funny pictures of what we've been up to this month:
Playing dress up was a HUGE theme. I love three year olds because if they are dressed up as a cowboy or pirate, they REALLY are a cowboy or pirate. Grandma Roxie sent these funny glasses. He wore them so naturally...

Candid pic in the car...
The Columbus Zoo is HUGE. They had "BOO at the ZOO". The kids trick or treated at different exhibits. They LOVED the gorillas. Here they are looking at the Manatees. Bad pictures, sorry.

Petting a snake. eww.
We went with some fun friends to the pumpkin patch (it was more of a pumpkin graveyard) and the boys had a blast. I love this picture of Henry...

Someone asked Grant which hero he was and he said, "Super Grant!". AND... He grew this Super pumpkin this year.

In this town, they do trick or treating two days before Halloween because the college students go BER-ZERK on Halloween. At every door he said, "Thank you, Trick or Treat!" (in that order). Then he would run to us and say, "I did it!" and do a little dance (which reminded me of Spencer's dancing actually).
I love the days when these guys are happy with just one candy. Henry clutched on to this one the whole time.
Grant smashed a ladybug right before this picture.
What do you do if your son won't stop flashing the camera?

Happy Halloween!

Monster Mash featuring Blake and the Pattersons! -- created by Mason

2009-10-25T19:58:00.003-06:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

more witch info

2009-10-20T12:32:00.005-06:00

Witch party continued...
By request, here are some more details: The pumpkin craft we did can be found HERE. The broomstick party favor in the sacks can be found HERE. (Good old Martha Stewart) I used a pretzel rod instead of sticks and I put homemade caramel corn inside, and just a little bit of candy corn to weight it down but there were so many sweet treats at the party I wish I would have put some non-food items in there but I don't know what. I also made larger ones out of paper grocery sacks and put them outside the front door. I sent out invitations and boxed dinner guidelines so if you want to see a copy I can email it to you. The punch was ginger ale and pineapple juice. The floating eyeballs were from Walmart. My friends made the desserts and appetizers. Family Fun had the ideas for the creme puff eyeballs and ghost poo (oreo truffles). The cupcakes I made came from CountryLiving. A friend brought the lady fingers which were butter cookies with red frosting and almond slivers for the nails. The dinners were so creative and awesome. I'm so glad we did it that way because there were so many people there. I also tried to have a caramel apple station to decorate and take home but the caramel didn't work so I suggest just using the wrapped caramel candies or a tried-and-true recipe. If you need more ideas, I have them!

Witch Party

2009-10-19T12:15:00.010-06:00

Where have I been? Planning a witch party! It was so awesome! Check it out!
We each brought a dinner for a dinner swap and ate spooky finger foods. I'm sure my neighbors think I'm in a secret society but it was so fun! Thanks to all who helped!

Idaho Witch Gathering

2009-10-18T10:06:00.000-06:00

Roxie (my mom) had a witch party last weekend too!
You guys rock!
(Notice the Hocus Pocus witches!!!! AHAHAHAHA!)

Lots to post, lots to post!

2009-09-11T22:05:00.001-06:00

In the last two weeks:

#1: We had a great time with Ken and Gaye (in-laws)!

AWESOME collage football games last week. Here is Grant at the OU football game. We did the same watching Boise State and BYU win!!!

Have you ever been to Hiram or Kirtland, Ohio? So many neat things to see! It was unexpectedly profound. I like feeling more familiar with the history of my church. I think I over-estimated my boys. They were bored. It was exhausting to manage them. I had a little meltdown outside the Whitney store. We survived. By the way, the Amish mecca was on the way! It was neat to drive through Sugarcreek, Ohio but I must admit I was disappointed because it was so tourist-y! Next time, I'd like to explore the back roads a little more. Like I said, we just drove through.

The Johnson Farm (my favorite site)

The Leavitts (missionaries from Twin Falls)
Kirtland Temple

#2: Grant started preschool!

This morning Grant got to eat his mini MnM pancakes on the "Special Day" plate. He brushed his teeth, put on his new T-shirt and willingly got in the car. As we were walking in to preschool he said, "I want to stay home, mom." I told him he would probably change his mind when he saw all the fun things to do inside. He did. He was shy but not upset about me leaving him (especially when his little buddy showed up). I was surprised. I think I was the nervous one. I realized that today starts the first of ALL his days of "school". This year, he will only be gone two mornings a week, but next year it will be three, then five, then ALL DAY FIVE DAYS A WEEK! What!!!???!!? Yes, every Fall-Spring from this year forth, he will go to school. I need to go have a little cry. Anyways, here are some pictures.

#3: We've been growing Monarchs at our house. Magical. Very Magical.
(we took the cocoon with us on our road trip)

Miracle for Tegan

2009-09-05T10:24:00.003-06:00

Blogging is so awesome. One great thing about blogging is 'social support' (one of Spencer's phd terms).

I have a compassionate friend who is on a mission to help a family in need. They've got a big fundraiser coming up in Pocatello, Idaho. Lots of soulful people are donating. I put their blogs on my sidebar called "Miracles for Tegan" where you can read her story and find information to help. There are so many families who endure emotional challenges, but once in a while, you can't help but be affected, especially when you care for small children. Now go hug your loved ones.

I'm sending prayers to you, Tegan!

Check it out.

2009-09-03T17:45:00.003-06:00

Click HERE and watch to see if you see some familiar faces!

SUMMER!... AHHHHHH!!!

2009-08-24T20:01:00.004-06:00

I can't believe you, reader, have time to read this. Summertime is crazy. I'm kinda relieved it is just about over. I need some reasons not to do stuff. Like: school started. That doesn't really affect me personally, but I'm just tired. We haven't even gone anywhere but my calendar makes me dizzy. I kinda feel cool saying that. I have been playing softball a little, and canning a little, and working in my yard a little, and working a lot, and playing with the boys a lot, and STUFF. I have some pictures of a few things you've missed out on:

I made this...

...into this:

We're driving this (love it):Our new BFF:

That's all I have time for tonight. I'll post about the boys later...

On his yellow bike...

2009-08-09T13:31:00.005-06:00

Check it out! Grant begged us for a "bike with training wheels" for a while before we found this little beauty at a bicycle co-op. He spends HOURS on our little patio riding it. His hair is always drenched with sweat when he takes his helmet off. He is so proud of his little tricks: riding, stopping, and rolling down the ramp. I can't believe he is getting so big!

One year ago...

2009-07-24T20:55:00.002-06:00

I've been pondering about the last year living in Athens, Ohio. I remember myself saying, "Ah, a fresh start is nice, this change will be good." And it has been. I can really say that I love living here. I love this house that limits our budget, but is totally worth it. I love the flexibility of my job. I love the friends I've made. I love the memories we are making with the kids. I love seeing Spencer succeed and become such a big smarty pants.

The last year could have been so different. I think life really is what you make of it. We faithfully felt it was right to move here. Now, it is neat to look back and know how right it was. There are always BLAH days and times of serious stress, but we work through it. I'm just sitting here feeling so grateful for a Heavenly Father that orchestrates the blessings in our lives.

(And don't get me started on those grand old pioneers! happy pioneer day!)

Jack of all trades

2009-07-17T13:46:00.003-06:00

One day while I was at work, I got a text from Spence saying that he gave Penny a haircut. Poor thing. We'll leave that to the professionals next time. He made a quick little flyer of remembrance:

A jolly fourth of july

2009-07-07T12:03:00.005-06:00

I hope everyone had a nice Fourth of July! We did. I always do.

I love the Fourth because it is easy fun. No presents. The food is good. Good friends/family. The mess stays outside. Baseball. Playing games in the yard. Swimming. Popcicles. Minimal traveling. Playing with fireworks. Watching fireworks.

It is a happy day to enjoy our country's freedoms as an expression of gratitude for it.

This year it sprinkled a bit but we were having so much fun that we stayed outside under our tree. Ironically, our new favorite tradition for the Fourth is whacking a pinata made in Mexico. Grant was impressed at my coolness when I explained what we do with a pinata. All day he had to clarify that he heard me correctly, "Mom, so, we can put candy in the 'pinlada' and hang it on the tree, and hit it with a baseball bat?" "Yes." (Then he would give me an I-think-I'll-burst-with-excitement-smile). It was a big "Hit". he he.

A recap of a visit from some of our peeps.

2009-07-05T18:09:00.001-06:00

Spencer's sis and familia came to visit us recently. I love hanging with these easy-going, fun-loving FOLKS! HERE are some pictures from their visit (some poor iphone pics):

We played a couple rounds of Monopoly (Beck's new FAV. hehe) They put up a good fight but they were no match for ME! (until the next day when JER stole my title)

Spent an AWESOME day at King's Island where Grant found his best friends all over the place!!! Ethan was SO BRAVE to enter the Scooby Doo Haunted House! We rode some SCARY rollercoasters and avoided sunburns. The water park was oh so nice on a hot day!!!

We also hiked around OLD MAN'S CAVE. If you come visit us, we'll take you there!

Becki and I played Bakerellas and made these for Father's Day!!! mmm.
And for the finale: Here is an undercover video of the Kendricks performing, Falling Slowly. Pretty nice, eh? (One of the many perks if the Kendricks come visit your house).

Mayo Clinic atrium piano, charming older couple...

2009-07-01T06:51:00.001-06:00

I keep forgetting to post this!! Smile to my face.

check it out!

2009-06-19T06:34:00.002-06:00

Spencer and I have been getting butterflies for Dave Ramsey...

http://www.daveramsey.com/etc/lms/drive_free/player.cfm

a photoshoot just in time.

2009-06-18T17:22:00.013-06:00

I took some pictures of the kiddos on Sunday.
(If you name is Chris or Ken, you will be getting copies of a couple of these in the mail for Father's Day. Sorry to spoil to the surprise!!)

My boss had a party out at his... home/homes/nature preserve/maple syrup factory/art gallery/cabin/compound/etc... so, we had lots of good scenes for a photoshoot of the boys at ages three and one. check!

THEN!... Tuesday Grant threw a clipboard at Henry and ended in Henry getting 6 stiches on his forehead!! I've never even had 6 stiches!! Watch out for flying clipboards!!! Good thing I took those pictures already... I mean... I'm so sorry little buddy!!!

I really am sorry. ;(

I need some "oohs" and "ahhs" please.

2009-06-15T21:30:00.000-06:00

Look what I made...

"sweet pea afghan" HERE.

So domestic. I amaze myself. (this is my blog, so I can say that if I want)

I made if for our good friends and neighbors pictured here:

Expecting first baby (girl) next month!!! YEAY!!!

On another blog-worthy note...
Please enjoy these scenes from my two favorite movies below:

Bye Bye Birdie (1963 movie) - Telephone Hour

2009-06-15T18:59:00.001-06:00

The Pajama Game - There Once Was a Man

2009-06-15T18:58:00.001-06:00

My husband is 1/4 doctor.

2009-06-11T09:22:00.006-06:00

YEAY SPENCER!!!
No one else spells "yeay" like that, but I think I'm right.

Congratulations, babe! You have completed your first year of your PhD program!!
We are so proud of you! From the words of your super-human brain...

BOO-YA!

Hello.

2009-06-03T13:20:00.011-06:00

Apparently, I took all of May off from blogging. Well, moving on...

Did you know?
I spent MOST of May 2009 in Boise. Yes, my Dad was scary-sick and I am so glad that the kids and I got to spend some time with him and lots of family that I missed very much. He is probably on dialysis as we speak (er... read), but I'm told that he is still improving in little ways. There is a kidney out there somewhere with his name on it. I'm so grateful that we were able to spend time with him. Here are some pictures from our visit:

Blake (far right) performed in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers!... I wish I had seven brothers.

Did you know?
Grant turned THREE!!! Weird. When we got back, Spencer took him fishing and he actually caught fish. On a fly rod. How? I don't know, I wasn't there. But Spencer and Grant have been strutting around here pretty proud of themselves.

Did you know?

We went on tour around the family and celebrated Grant and my birthdays in lots of different ways. Nice people made a lot of yummy desserts in my behalf in which I ate about half!! The boys had a nice time with all their cousins, plus a visit to the Boise Zoo with Kenj and kiddos! This is important: On my birthday, I played monopoly with Blake, Mason, and Lorie (and won). Wait until you see all the cupcake inspiration my mom gave me. It was a very memorable birthweek! Thank you!

My birthday-sharing cousins and I got aprons designed by Sassy! yeay!

p.s. Thank you to the people who helped me on the plane ride to and fro. Especially the army gentleman that rocked Henry to sleep while his mother was sucking her thumb, in fetal position, leaning against the airplane window.

My favorite room.

2009-04-28T16:35:00.003-06:00

A series of unfortunate events.

2009-04-24T20:13:00.006-06:00

Spencer posted this on his family's website:
note: My commentary is in PURPLE from when he first recounted the story.
note: I was at the store.

"Today I was so embarrassed. I was home alone with the boys when my advisor, Lynn, dropped by to do a favor (She brought him a book that was ironically titled "Organizational Stress"). Unfortunately, both of the boys were naked with mud and grass all over their bodies (They just came in from playing with the sprinkler in the yard). I was changing henry when she knocked , but Grant showed no shame opening the door in the buck. So I hurried to change Henry’s diaper and Lynn shouted, “Grant has a bloody nose!!!” I came into the kitchen as she was wiping his face while he stood there naked (Apparently, he was fiddling with himself while she was trying to clean up his face). After we got some clothes on both boys we started to do something on the computer. It was way too quiet and I should have known something was wrong. Lynn even sensed it before me. She stood up and asked “Where is Grant?” When she found him, her eyes got really big, “Spencer, is this OK?” I jumped up and looked around the corner. There he was, inside Penny’s kennel with the door closed on all fours drinking from her water bowl like a puppy. That's my boy. (This behavior is new to me!) Then Lynn asked, “Where is Henry?” I found him in the bathroom standing on top of the highest point of the toilet looking to jump. Seriously, how did he get up there? (He pushes the step stool over to the toilet. I think he is trying to reach the toothbrushes. Good boy.) I tried to hurry and finish our little task in the midst of yelling boys and barking dog. As we wrapped things up and started walking for the door, Penny came flying around the corner mummified in 100 yards of hot pink yarn (for my crochet project -- wait until you see it!!) and ran circles around us. (He said she caused the yarn to get tangled in everyone's legs right by the door. As Lynn opened the door to leave, they all attempted to escape so he said a quick "bye" with one pinned between his legs, one in his arms, and one kicked back into the house)Nice. Now that is how you impress your advisor. Luckily, his advisor is the most considerate, accepting, children-loving, kind-hearted women you'd ever meet. But still, she probably wonders, "How long can they keep this up??"

I find myself smiling and laughing out loud to myself when I picture this scene. This SO could have happened to me. Some days are such a circus!!! One day my friend pulled in the drive to find Grant squatting in the lawn mid-poo. I guess we are supposed to just laugh it off. Sorry, babe.

I decided it is time for this disclaimer: Should any person arrive announced or un-announced at the Patterson residence, we are not responsible for physical or psychological damages. We guarantee that your visit WILL include some or all of the following: loud noises, nudity, sticky substances, temper tantrums, safety hazards, questionable parenting techniques, poop, throw-up, nervous breakdowns, or children behaving like dogs. In the event of an accident, go home.

Some Easter Pics.

2009-04-22T13:41:00.006-06:00

My favorite post so far:

2009-04-17T20:28:00.002-06:00

Did you notice my NEW button on the sidebar???

Here is the deal:

If you click on this button, you will see a blog full of pictures, videos, and information about my sister-in-law's (Becki's) family. All I know is, the baby that is to belong to this family is destined for happiness. And lots of goofy accents (mom's pastime). And playing fun games (dad's pastime). And rolls of masking tape (brother's pastime).

I am so much in love with this family that we would leave our children in their care if something happened to Spencer and I.

So if you know of someone that is considering adoption, please share this button!
Becki's sister-in-law (on the Kendrick side) is the infamous blogging cjane (sister of Nie Nie). confused yet? Cjane introduced the button on her blog, HERE, and wrote a great post worth reading.

The Kendrick family is ready and waiting for you, little baby.

Penny the Dog

2009-04-15T19:05:00.002-06:00

Penny is three months old now. I kind of feel like we've had her forever. We are adjusting to being dog owners, but the kids LOVE HER!!! I admit that after the first week or two I was wondering what I got myself into: managing a puppy while mothering two little maniacs. I hoped that the feeling would pass and luckily it is getting easier. She wined during the night for the only the first couple weeks and she is now pretty consistent about going potty outside, which means she can spend longer amounts of time in the living room. Her other accomplishments include: Sit. Come. Down. Kennel. We've been clicker training everyday and it is great! Of course, she chews anything and the worst mishap is when she got a hold of one of Grant's yellow paint markers and it exploded on the carpet. She spent the afternoon outside on that day. She is bossy. She barks when she wants me to pet her and nips when she wants to play. She nips at the boys sometimes and I know it hurts them, so if she is hyper, I put her behind the baby gate. A couple days ago her sharp little tooth punctured my finger when we were playing fetch. Lately, her favorite game is 'keep away' -- it is SO ANNOYING! I can't wait until we get a bigger fence in the backyard so all these little creatures can run around and burn off some energy!!!

Blogging about Penny is not that exciting, but some people have asked how the dogging is going. So there you go!

The top of the list.

2009-04-12T22:30:00.005-06:00

I have a little list in my head of things to blog about. I've gotten so behind!!
Not enough hours in the day... blah, blah, blah.

Let's just do one at a time:

Spring Break!

My mom and Blake came for a week!! It felt like five minutes! Aren't moms the best? Seriously, I'd turn around to do something that was already done! We concluded that everyone needs a wife (Oprah would agree).

Kids need to be bathed. Check.
Lunch to be served. Check.
Groceries to be purchased. Check, check, check.

Husbands take note: Please be more wife-like. Our mothers (and yours) put you to shame.

Spencer was excellent at entertaining the 17-year-old uncle. Mountain biking is excellent here. We talked about his plans-to-consider college. He ate a lot of bananas.

It was nice to show someone all the sights.
Sight number one: Ohio University.
Sight number two: Sherwin Williams.

Sherwin Williams you ask????

Let's just say, Spencer left when the kitchen was in it's normal state of lemon yellow, and returned to it's new normal of "green trance" (or a vintage-inspired sea glass shade of freshness).

Pictures to come... I need to finish a little project first.

It has been blah since you left mom. No one is here to notice my collection of labeled storage totes. Come back soon!

I'm lame, but the link is cool.

2009-04-07T20:55:00.004-06:00

Sorry, Henry, mommy needs to blog again, because everyone is tired of looking at pictures of you.

It's late, but I promised I would blog today. A lot has happened but you'll have to wait for pictures... Don't worry it will be worth it.

While you are waiting, check this out:

This is so sweet.

(skip the video, read below the video... yeay!)

Has anyone else embraced food storage? Anyone?

Remeber this little guy???

2009-03-15T13:11:00.010-06:00

Well, he's been growing...

And growing...

And growing!...
And now he's ONE!!!

We love you Henry!

IMPOSTER!!!

2009-03-12T18:49:00.002-06:00

Maybe I should change my password. Spencer.

However....

I publicly announce that I falsely accused Spencer of being a non-flosser. I was wrong.
You see, once he was educated about the harmful effects of plaque biofilm and the prognosis of gingivitis, he improved his homecare.

I guess he really was listening to my nagging! I'm sorry, honey.

That post was pretty funny! I almost wet my pants. You all are too kind.

Ocean water???

This is a Blog Intervention

2009-03-11T06:19:00.005-06:00

OK. I'm not Emily. I'm Spencer. I need to break into this blog and set some things straight. I openly admit that I am publicly using techniques of image restoration.

I am very happy that Emily and I have been married for 6 years. I love her so much!!! She is still my best friend and she is still really HOT!! (Of course that isn't the most important thing, but it is really nice.) She has a glowing countenance and a testimony to sustain our whole family through tough times. I'd say after six years of living together we know each other very well. As you can see, I can guess Emily's passwords to access anything. We know each others weaknesses and strengths. For example, I would say that one of Emily's strengths is making stuff. She makes some really great stuff . . .out of anything. She is really creative! I wouldn't mind being lost at sea with her, because she would make a cake, or a wreath, or a picture frame out of the ocean water. I guarantee it. Having studied a significant amount of persuasion, I would say that she is really persuasive. She knows how to get me to do anything she wants. I'll let her explain that one.

Likewise, Emily knows me really well and she helps me become a better person every day. For example, she taught me a more effective way of cleaning the bathtub. She gives me great advice on how to communicate more precisely with my professors and students (yes, I am the one getting a PhD in communication). You may have even noticed, she will even remind me that I forgot an "o" when I write "to" instead of "too" (who hasn't done that?). But there is one thing I really don't understand. Emily called me a "non-flosser". That really hurts. Why would she write such a thing? She knows me really well and she knows that I floss daily. She even knows that I clean under the bars of numbers 8, 9, 24, 25, 26, and even 27. I consistently show her that I don't just passively swipe that gore-tex filament through my diastamas, but I make a precise U-shaped movement at the end of each sulcus to ensure that all the streptococcus mutans are agitated and removed. If you don't know what I am talking about, that is because you have not been educated and tested time and again on your flossing skills. I don't know what to do about this great offense.

What should I do? Forgive and forget?

News Alert!!!

2009-03-08T21:28:00.004-06:00

Introducing our PENNY:

She is a miniature Goldendoodle (Spencer is embarrassed to tell his friends he has anything "doodle", but he LOVES her).
She is 75% poodle, 25% golden retriever. Non-shedding, hypo-allergenic, and SO CUTE! She is 7 weeks old and six pounds but will grow to be <25 lbs.

This weekend has been NUTS!! We are tired. She is a lot of work at night and supervising her and the kids is tough too. We are really motivated to do whatever it takes to train her to be a good family dog, and so far she seems pretty easy-going. She goes potty outside most of the time and she only woke up thrice last night to go out.

Grant has been testing his boundaries with her, but he is so helpful and she is great entertainment for him! Henry is a little nervous around her. I think she steals his toys.

We celebrated our sixth wedding anniversary on Saturday! I love my French-speaking, doodle-owning, fly-fishing, lactose-intolering, bass-singing, jeep-driving, diaper-changing, non-flossing, brain-expanding, trick-demonstrating, hair-curling, business-inventing, wife-adoring, Spence.

2009 is going to be fine!

2009-02-27T09:46:00.003-07:00

POTTY TRAINED!!!!

I put everyone on "lock-down" for a few days. We stopped diapers cold turkey (except at night) and set the timer for 55 minutes (don't ask me why 55 minutes, just motherly instincts). One treat for dry undies, one treat for going in the potty. I used Pez and Whoppers, but I think anything small and sweet would have worked. Soon he started saying, "It's coming, it's coming!!!" and even learned how to "stop it" from coming. I also motivated him by saying that the Backyardigans go in the potty. YEAY!!!

My job.

2009-02-24T07:45:00.002-07:00

Above: This is a toothbrush couch that I am considering for my living room.

I haven't really mentioned my job. So if you are wondering, read on.

I work for a dental office with THREE dentists (all of which are really cool).
That means SIX hygienists at one time!
(also really cool -- even though they think I am the weird Mormon girl).
As you can imagine, they need me pretty frequently as a substitute hygienist.
But I am ALWAYS scheduled Thursday afternoons.
It averages out to a few full days a month. (could be more if another office needs me)

I have to brag: This is the life! (my hygiene friends may agree)

Seriously, they call for a sub and I can say:

"Sure, I'll come in"
(if we need the cash)

or,

"Sorry, I can't today."
(if I need to make a pizza out of clay with Grant)

Then I pick up a pay check that was worth a grand total of 10 hours and it covers our car payment or January gas bill. (plus a little more)

I am grateful for my education and for the minimal time I have to be away from my little people.

It makes me feel safe.

And, yes, I LOVE cleaning teeth. The more tarter the better!!!

Valentine's Day and food storage

2009-02-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

I wish I wouldn't have waited so long to post this, but I need to record it for my family.

The Love Bugs visited our house the week of Valentine's Day! They live in this little mailbox and brought us treats, stickers, and Valentines notes everyday! Grant mailed them drawings and other little things. It was a big hit! (Even with Spencer.) The idea came from Family Fun Magazine.

On another note, my food storage goals are coming right along! Spencer made these AWESOME shelves in our basement (cost: $70). The top shelf is slanted forward a little for rolling cans. We already have a good start on our three-month food supply goal and I saved $50 at Kroger last week buying sale items in bulk with coupons! The next step is water. I'm anxious for this one because last Fall we had a "boil order" for a week. I found these for drinking or other uses (washing dishes, flushing toilets, brushing teeth, etc). Yes!

Pay it Forward

2009-02-09T22:09:00.000-07:00

So a friend of a friend is doing this pay it forward thing. So this is how it works..... The first 3 people to leave a comment on this will receive a hand made gift from me during this year. When and what will be a surprise. There's a small catch...You knew there would be didn't you? Post this on your blog then come back and leave a comment, telling me you're in. Fun, huh? Remember, only the first 3 comments receive the gift.

A historic day!!!

2009-02-08T18:29:00.003-07:00

Lesson learned.

2009-01-30T22:05:00.000-07:00

I'm 25. This year I've noticed a lot of perspective changes in my self-talk and behavior. I recently learned a new life lesson...

Don't save Tiffany & Co. perfume for a special occasion.

Last summer I went to a memorable baby shower for a friend from dental hygiene school (Crystal Sanford). The theme was "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and so we ate fancy breakfast with virgin sunrise mimosas in fancy champagne glasses. The party favor came in a signature little Tiffany blue gift bag in the form of a sample-sized glass tube of Tiffany & Co. perfume....... I KNOW!

This party was such a treat for me because I love Audrey Hepburn.
(Some of my dear friends share in this adoration... they're probably watching Sabrina right now.)

So, I respectfully put the perfume in a safe place and reserved wearing it for fancy dates and romantic occasions. It smells glorious. I knew it might be a while until I could get my hands on an official bottle because I assume everything Tiffany blue is for the rich and famous.

I regret to tell you that I was cleaning the bathroom and it fell out of my cabinet into the sink and broke... every drop down the drain.
The moral of the story...

Live in the moment, Emily.
Holly Golightly would have worn that perfume on any ordinary day.

moon river-breakfast at tiffany´s

2009-01-30T20:06:00.001-07:00

The plunge.

2009-01-26T13:15:00.004-07:00

I am a changed woman.

I like wheat grinders. (thank you to mom-in-law for a merry Christmas)

Confession: I can't sleep at night because I am scheming about food storage.

When did this happen?!?!

Click on this website if you dare:
NOT YOUR GRANDMA'S FOOD STORAGE
(The "LINKS" tab is a-mazing.)

Just you wait and see...

Dear family & friends:

2009-01-24T20:08:00.006-07:00

I'm writing you this letter to say that I am moving to the Florida Keys.

January is my least favorite month. Cabin fever. Budgets. Holiday hang-over. Tax season. Tried and failed resolutions. I'm tired of cooking soup. I'm tired of wearing shoes. I'm tired of sweating in my coat because it takes 15 minutes to put the little people's coats on. Dirty snow. Dark by 5pm. Illnesses. Ice. Gas/Heat bill. Eww!

Also: Why is it that Grant won't go to BED!?! Nap or no nap!!!

Rant, rant, rant, rave, rave, rave!!!

Sorry about the lack of posts, but do you see what happens when I post in January!!

Love,
Emily

Happy Berfday.

2009-01-08T19:52:00.004-07:00

A poem for your birthday (written by Emily):

Spencer-pants, Spencer-pants, what is today?
It is my birthday, dawg, shout Hurray!

Spencer-pants, Spencer-pants, how old are you?
I'm twenty-eight and much cuter too!

Spencer-pants, Spencer-pants, what do you wish?
I wish for Boise State to bust the B-C-Esh!

Spencer-pants Spencer-pants, who loves you the most?
My family, my friends, dude, don't make me boast.

Spencer-pants Spencer-pants, what is your fav?
Sloppy Joe's, Rock Band, and the presents you gave. (he hasn't opened any. hehe.)

Spencer-pants, Spencer-pants, please finish this poem.
Sure. About those presents... where did you stow 'em?

I declare that Spencer had a great day. Family and friends bombarded him with texts, phone calls, emails, and videos of musical birthday wishes. And he got a whole pan of brownies all to himself. (And he shared).

Unfortunately, his birthday got off to a bad start as I was in the ER with Henry until 2 am because of a high fever... hopefully it is just a little virus. So, we will be doing some celebrating tomorrow too.

This was Grant's reaction to the birthday celebrating.
Sorry about the video quality.... Enjoy!

Oh, yes, there was holiday cheer.

2009-01-04T21:06:00.004-07:00

I'm almost over the holiday hang-over of gifting, making, baking, wrapping, decorating, traveling, etc. Thanks to our family, we are stuffed, spoiled, and well-slept. Our days in Idaho were GLORIOUS. Well, except the first day when Grant managed to get his thumb stuck in a hole in the airport security equipment. Nothing a little crowd control and confiscated lotion won't take care of, right? Yeah, yikes.

Sorry about the lack-o-posts. I LOVED seeing all of your Christmas cards and I am ashamed to say I dropped the ball on sending more than just to immediate family. Oh, the price you pay for the time it takes to make home-made gifts. But don't forget me next year!... I'll get mine out early.

We love you guys, and wish you all the best. Back to real life.

p.s. Today Grant broke the tub faucet and my favorite fruit bowl, dumped out all my fancy liquid soap, pushed Henry, kicked Henry, and refused to adhere to our potty-training groove. I'm going to bed.

Pictures of Thanksgiving in Nauvoo. (better late than never)

2008-12-22T17:10:00.021-07:00

I finally have a day to catch up on some things! (as you may have noticed, blogging was sent straight to the bottom of the list this month) Now, you have the treat of seeing some pictures of our visit to Nauvoo, Illinois for Thanksgiving. My cute Grandpa Gary Warr and his also cute wife, Sherry, are on a mission there until next Fall. I've been dying to get over there to see their performance in the play and all the historical sites that I have never seen before. These pictures will be especially appreciated by my family... because they miss those two! So enjoy the show! (Sorry the pictures aren't in order):

(Henry is excited for the pictures to start)

Sherry gave us a tour of Wilford Woodruff's home. She made her mission dresses and aprons that look similar to what the people in Nauvoo wore... it was like a "time warp" to Nauvoo because they all played the part!!!

Grant's FAVORITE day was the visit to see the oxen. They. Are. Huge. Especially standing next to my toddler. We rode the wagon. I'll take a moving truck over an ox and wagon anyday.

This is my grandpa. He switched days with the horses to show Grant the oxen. The oxen's names were Gary and Gabe, by the way.

This made me nervous.

Elder Mitchell. He was so sweet. At the end of our ride he sang us the song, "Bessy the Cow" from his part in the Summer play in Nauvoo. It was one of my favorite parts of our trip.

Grant has wonderful grand and great-grand parents. He is so lucky! Grand and Henry are the only great-grand-kids on the Warr side (so far).

This is the house where they live. It is across the street from the temple.
The Catholic nuns used to live there.

We took a short drive over to Carthage. Everything came to life for me here too.

Somehow, after a long day, grandma and grandpa perform in a play about Nauvoo. They are the best part of the whole show! Grandpa's character's name is George. Since the show, Grant refers to him as "Grandpa George".

Spencer and I went to the temple in Nauvoo. It was beyond beautiful. So special.

Here is Grandpa on the horse/wagon tour. We rode through town and the kids did great until the end (as usual). It was cold. They say the Summer time is very busy and very hot. They are troopers. I can't thank them enough for being such great examples.

The twelve hour drive was so worth it. We loved spending time with them! Grant still talks about it. The missionary life is fascinating to me and I loved seeing it up-close. Thanks for making us so comfortable, fed, and welcome. We pray for you, love you, and miss you!

If there are any readers who have questions about my church and it's history, please feel free to comment here to contact me or visit this awesome website: mormon.org

Merry Christmas!

You guessed it! Another guest blogger!

2008-11-24T19:44:00.004-07:00

Hi. This is Henry. Not Hank. Not Hanky Panky. Henry, please.

I'm eight months old. That makes me small, so I have to fight for my rights around here. Grant bosses me around but that's okay because life would be boring without him bouncing off the walls! I must say, though, the worst part about being a little brother is the part where the big brother squishes you. Seriously, it is out of control!

I'm so glad for the break when Grant takes a nap. I roll around with Mommy on the floor and give her all the slobbery kisses I want!

A lot is going on with me. I'm busy growing teeth. I've already grown 5! It makes me tired!
I just got this new way to get around. Crawling. It is the BEST! I can pretty much get into whatever I want. It is so nice to get things for myself. Like crumbs under the table. And other snacks that Grant leaves behind. It's hard to keep up with mommy, though. If I cry crawling around after her, she'll scoop me up and I get to ride on her hip for a while.

Did you know everything has a different texture and taste? Try it! Just start sticking stuff in your mouth! Paper, remotes, Velcro, sponge curlers, you name it!

By the way, a growing man gets hungry in the middle of the night! Don't judge me.

Love,
Henry

A guest blogger.

2008-11-17T19:46:00.002-07:00

Hi! My name is Grant. I am two and a half years old. I believe in late to bed, early to rise. And I like to start every morning asking for chicken nuggets. Or marshmallows. I always help my mom cook. I just pick up a chair and bring it close to the counter. It's easy! Mommy lets me dump the cups and lick all the bowls clean. If I am really quiet, I get a head start on the eggs. One time I cracked a whole dozen on the floor. But Daddy was home that time. I also do the dishes... I love to use a whole bottle of soap to make them really clean!

Well, my days are really swamped. I'm really busy keeping Henry in line. Good 'ol Henry. He always forgets which toys are his and which are mine. He can't crawl as fast as me, but if I coach him, he'll crawl to the edge of the stairs or under a chair. Actually, if you just pull on his leg, he slides across the floor pretty easily. And, no, he doesn't mind if I eat his Cheerios.

My mom plays Frisbee with me in the back yard. I think she needs to practice running more, though, because I can totally run faster. Especially on the road.

If my mom has good treats, sure, I'll go in the toilet. Sometimes I'm just too busy for that.

My favorite things are: Backyardigans, singing songs, playing hide-the-phone-and-push-the-page-button, snacks, playing darts with Dad, laying on Henry.

Here is some good advice: Saying "Please" or "Sorry, mommy/Henry/Daddy" is usually your ticket out of time out. But if you are stuck in your room for a time out, don't worry, just keep yourself busy by climbing the furniture or kicking the walls.

Mommy and Daddy need me to help them fall asleep. If I ask them to tickle my back when they put me in bed, then they fall asleep on the floor next to me. It works like a charm.

So, I'm pretty much the boss around here.

goat, tote, moat, gloat, float, boat, VOTE!

2008-11-04T18:18:00.002-07:00

Thanks to the time change, I arose at 6:15am, put on my jogging gear, bundled up Henry in the stroller, and trotted over to the voting booths. There was a 15 minute line and lots of smiley folks. I wore my 'I voted' sticker all day. Henry finally managed to eat it right before bed. Voting makes me feel like an adult. I'm not just a mom. I'm a voting mom. I'm a hot voting mom.

a 'Trick or Treat' stampede

2008-11-01T20:06:00.003-06:00

Halloween is HUGE in Athens, Ohio.

Ohio University is ranked 2nd biggest party school because of Halloween. As I type this post, there are thousands of dressed-up college students partying downtown. All night long. We went to the store for ice cream and saw lots of people wearing raunchy costumes. I'll stop there.

Side note: There has a HUGE push for changing the legal drinking age to 18 to disable the 'binge drinking' trend. I'm told the university President is against this. I support him. Duh.

The itinerary of Halloween here:
1. Thursday BEFORE Halloween is trick-or-treat night from 5:30-6:30pm.
2. Saturday AFTER Halloween is the big party downtown. (People come from all over)
3. Halloween is like any other day unless it falls on number 1 or 2.

So Thursday we were excited to trick or treat. Grant had been saying "Trick or Treat" all week but I'm sure he had no idea what we were talking about. And then the kids came. There were so many trick or treaters, you couldn't even drive a car through. Grant just stood there watching the crowds, costumes, and masked children. I'm sure he questioned his reality. And our sanity. Grant was very polite to the neighbors and I over-indulged him with candy. Did I say him? I meant myself.

Henry just thought he was on a regular old walk in the stroller. Except in a beaver costume.
I set out a bowl of Halloween toothbrushes and wondered if anyone would take them. When we came home, the bowl was empty. Maybe they were a hit. Or maybe I'm on the toilet paper hit list.

Last night, on Halloween, we attended a pleasant potluck/trunk or treat with our branch, and then we had few of Spence's classmates over for our recently declared tradition of "Friday Night Rock Band". Lots of dancing. Lots of drumming. Lots of popcorn. Lots of fun.

Spencer thanked me for not making him dress up. The truth is: I was low on ideas. Lame.

Special thanks to Ethan for lending the Harley Davidson jacket. He thought he was pretty cool, dude.

Let's reminisce: click here.

A Turtle's Confession.

2008-10-22T20:45:00.003-06:00

The Latest cont...

2008-10-17T19:34:00.006-06:00

Henry
Henry is not allowed to grow (he is 7 months now). I LOVE having a baby around. (I've heard people say that... but now I understand).

As you know, Henry is crawling. I'm SO glad that we got new carpet. I guess rugs would have done the trick, but it is so nice that he can play all over the house. He scoots over to Grant's toys and drools all over them, and eats Grant's paper, and loves it. Grant goes to him and says, "Henry! Don't do that!"

I have this philosophy that Henry doesn't LIKE to cry. He will, but he doesn't like it. So he just squawks a little if he needs me. He rides in the car or rolls around the house content as could be. His flexible attitude is a gift.

Another gift: When he is tired (three times a day, never fails) I lay him down. Thumb goes in. He falls asleep. That's right, folks. Like. A. Light. Switch. HEA-VEN! (sing-song voice)

It is a puzzle to me why he wakes up 3 or 4 times at night. But, I don't mind enough to change it. My Grandpa Keith said you should give a baby under 1 year anything they want. So I do.

When Grant is sleeping, Henry and I play with each other. He snuggles and burrows in to me and tells me all his baby thoughts. I kiss him a million times and tickle him from head to toe. He drools all over my clothes and I bounce him on my lap singing, "This is the way the ladies ride..."

His eyes are blue. That is so weird.

MOI
I don't have a lot to say about myself. I've been working a little and painting a lot. My living room is now 'celery' green and I'm having fun planning, plotting, and scheming ways to make our house more our own. They have AWESOME antique shops and flea markets out here.
I don't have a church job yet, but I'm enjoying the break. Don't tell.

The Latest

2008-10-17T07:00:00.004-06:00

I think it is time for a more a more detailed update of my family.

SpencerWake up, study, teach class, go to class, study, play with family, watch college football highlights, study, sleep.

He has an office (which I call his apartment) in the basement where he can shut the door and have some quiet to focus his easily-distracted mind on school. I keep his mini-fridge well stocked with snacks and juice and an occasional RC Cola for late nights.

His class mates are amazed that he can keep up in such a strenuous program with a family and a home to take care of. They are jealous that someone packs him a lunch and makes him dinner. He is the boy scout master/deacon leader too.

His classmates are a colorful group (in a personality way). They have daily political debates and Spencer comes home exhausted from hearing them argue. Unlike Idaho, here he finds himself in many minorities: Married, Father, Mormon, Republican, etc.

But who cares. Yesterday he came home with a 98% on his first big paper. The best in his class! It is hanging on the fridge if you don't believe me.

GrantEarly in the morning, we hear Grant grunting and panting up the stairs to our room, dragging his blankie and that ugly teletubbie doll. He comes to Spencer's side of the bed and perfectly pronounces (in a whiny voice), "Dad-dy, I want watch Backyardigans downstairs some cereal."

If it is too early, he falls asleep between us. Henry ends up there too. I forgot what deep-sleep feels like. It became a fond memory after I had Grant. Along with long showers and sleeping in.

Go ahead and send out a rescue team the day Grant stops taking a nap.

The rest of the day he goes about his full-time job: bouncing around the house making messes. After a mess is made, he stands over it and says, "I make-a mess!" and I say, "Please don't make a mess." and he says, "Why?" and I say, "Because it makes mommy tired." So now when he makes a mess he says, "Mommy tired?" and I say, "Yes."

When he is grumpy or bossy, I leave the room and allow his mood to change. He is ALWAYS so quick to say he is sorry and give me a big, soft hug and slowly says, "Sorry, Mommy. Me gruchy." Who does that?

Whenever there is a choice between toys, he always chooses the ball. He begs me to play ping pong, soccer, or football. His favorite game: I throw the football to him, he doesn't catch it, he runs swiftly to the hallway and dives on the floor saying, "touch-down!"

Tools are always a winner for entertaining Grant. He has plastic tools but he knows better. Daddy's are cooler, heavier, and actually do stuff. I catch him using a screw driver on all the hardware all over the house.

It is so cool to see my kids fall in love with each other. Sometimes when we are driving down the road, I'll hear them cracking up at one another like they have a secret or they are making fun of me. As soon and Henry wakes up, I pick him up and he turns and squirms to find Grant in the room. Grant makes him laugh harder than anyone just with a smile.

Grant just made a mess. More tomorrow...

Video Treat

2008-10-12T14:58:00.004-06:00

oh brother, where art thou?

2008-10-08T19:59:00.004-06:00

(Kyle is the one in the middle...oh, wait)

I think I neglected to point out that you can read Kyle's letters in a blog I made him called:

Door to Door with Elder Warr

(Elder Warr is my brother on an LDS mission to Utica, New York)

The link is always on my blog. Tell all your friends.

Enjoy!

My new BFF.

2008-10-06T19:15:00.011-06:00

Here is the awaited tutorial on my INGENIOUS mom idea... (inspired by my grandmother, Lois)

1. the cover.

For the front and back, I took a basic binder apart.
(just cut and peel off the plastic and the cardboard comes right out)
I cut it to the size I wanted with a box knife. (mine happens to be 8.5"high, 7.5"wide)
I lined the inside cover with black card stock (spray adhesive to attach)
Then, I adjusted my 3-hole puncher to be a 2-hole puncher on the 5 1/2 inch setting.
It easily punched through the cover. I cut some white paper and card stock to the same size and punched in the same places.

note: I needed 1.5" rings to bind it. The ribbons are obviously optional, but in my opinion, necessary. If you use ribbon, you may want to seal the ends with superglue or something so they don't fray... as mine did after a couple days.

2. Tabs

I made 16 sections. There are a lot of ways to make and attach the tabs but I used blank mailing label stickers to make the tabs by cutting them to the length I wanted and then just folding them over each piece of card stock divider. First I wrote the section names by hand, but later I decided to make new ones on the computer. I just printed them right onto the mailing label stickers. The labels I wanted: To Do, Calendar, Contacts, Schedules, Groceries, Coupons & Ads, Shopping, Meals, House, Family Activities, New Recipes, Projects, Trips, Gifts, Wish list, and Holidays.

The ribbons behind each tab make it easier to open the planner and turned out pretty cute. I cut them about 3 inches long and attached them to the back of each piece of card stock behind the tab using a hot glue gun, but rubber cement might be better.

3. Features & Organization

Use envelopes inside the cover and every section to hold small papers, notes, invitations, tickets, etc. Attach using glue sticks, tape, or rubber cement.

I like to use blank paper for my to do lists, but the inside of each section is where you can customize it. Like using lined paper or a template.

I have used a glue stick a lot because it is a fast way to file magazine clippings, pictures, and other stuff that you don't want to slip out.

I made a couple templates, one for babysitters contact info., class schedule (including Spencer's), grocery list, and monthly calendars. I can email those excel templates if needed. Everyone has their own preferences with calendars and date-booking but I like to see a whole month at a time and have lots of room to write (so I left space at the top and bottom).

I have LOTS AND LOTS of ideas within each of the sections I listed, but decided to save you from the rambling.

If you are still in search of a good system for organizing your life with kids, the card-filing system is from Side Tracked Home Executives is awesome (thanks mom) and I still use that for meal planning and re-occurring daily, monthly, and other periodic to-dos.

p.s. the cupcake on the cover is from JoAnns... it is made for a t-shirt applique. spray adhesive.

Please post or email me pictures of your "BFF Lois" so we can share ideas and enjoy all the variations!

It's Autumn Time, It's Autumn Time...

2008-10-03T11:51:00.004-06:00

I made these tasty pumkins out of circus peanuts and sour gummy worms.

Find out how at my favorite website.

P.S. Next post will be HOW-TO on my BFF, Lois.

I gave myself a present.

2008-10-01T21:07:00.005-06:00

I love mail that is JUST FOR ME.
This designer can customize anything you can think up!

AND... the bird necklace goes to help Nie Nie. Double darling.

Also, this week I made myself a personal assistant. It HAD to be done. I'm always disappointed with planners and organizers from the store. So, I opted for couture.

I named her Lois. This is after my grandmother who also made a custom home/family organizer when her four daughters were small. I think I got this gene.
I used my experience in wife-hood and motherhood to decide how awesome to make it.

It is my new BFF.

Good for a giggle.

2008-09-24T20:41:00.004-06:00

Today I have been bursting out in random laughing (to myself) all day because of what Henry did in the middle of last night.

He is SO ready for solids (I have yet to start a daily routine with him) because he wakes more at night to eat and play.
He woke up and I tried to give him his pacifier and rock him back to sleep. No success.

He was wide awake so we put him in our bed to see if he would fall asleep next to us. He was quiet for a long time so I started dozing off......

Then I feel this sucking on my shoulder. So I move over a little.... then I feel the sucking on my arm... then my hand. He was chasing me around the bed! And that tickles! I started laughing and it made Spencer crack up when I told him. Henry knew he'd eventually find what he was looking for.

Are you smiling?

Picture Essay

2008-09-23T12:44:00.007-06:00

I am a toddler's mom.

2008-09-20T22:16:00.002-06:00

Here is the scoop: I found a part-time job working Thursday afternoons at a busy dental office but they needed a sub for most of this last week so I took advantage of the opportunity to get a feel for what my family could handle. I also acquired a solid list of smart, dependable babysitters from the university and our branch that will make it easier for me to work a little.

I worked a LOT this week. (24 total hours)

After working a whole day on Thursday I came home ACHING to see Grant and Henry. I missed them so much. Henry was asleep. Grant and I played 'airplane' for a long time and I felt so sad that his two-year-old-ness won't last for very long. It is such a gift that I get to be home with my kids. I will have years and years available for work when my kids are all in school, and beyond. I don't know why it is so tempting to work when they need me. Sometimes I feel confused about my priorities. So what if we don't have extra money. Luckily, dental hygiene is so flexible. I've decided one thing: full work-days are too much (especially since I am still nursing Henry). I'll stick to a couple half-days, thank you.

Remember when I had Grant THE DAY I GRADUATED from DH school?!?!? good grief.
Yes, I was given a degree AND a baby in the same day.
I must admit, I was more interested in the baby.
I still am.

money money money money money

2008-09-15T14:20:00.006-06:00

Intro: I hate money, and I like money, so I manage money.

Maybe I'm just slow to catch on to cool stuff, but I discovered the BEST website the other day.

Note: Quicken makes me nauseous. (Does anyone else feel that way?)

So, with a little research, I found this website: Mint.com

(if anyone knew about this and didn't tell me... well... I declare we are in a fight.)

I may sound like a commercial, but I have to say, it is SOOO EASY!!! It is so organized and visually simple, that it makes me happy just logging in. I didn't spend hours setting it up either.

The best part: I get a text when I approach my budget. Can I get a Hallelujah!

You'll thank me.

Pictures - Mason & Lorie Ann

2008-09-14T17:23:00.004-06:00

All the sibs. (minus kyle)

Blake wrote a song for them.Grant was in his own world.

After a honeymoon to Snow King Resort in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Mr. & Mrs. Warr are back in Rexburg for more school. I'm so excited for the dynamics of my family to change as my siblings get married and have kids. Then they won't think I am the old boring married sister.

more pictures -- Ashlee & Trev

2008-09-14T17:00:00.004-06:00

Freshly hitched.

All the sibs.

Spence and I with Bro. A (dear friend).
He came with me to the store to pick up some airplane toys for Grant and always pushed the cart and carried my bags. He is 83.

Gay and Ash threw a killer party!

(Oh! Please excuse my son, he is putting your twinkle lights up his nose.)

First Day of School.

2008-09-08T21:22:00.003-06:00

Spencer's first official day of fancy-pants-doctoral school was TODAY!!!

I love you! Good luck! See you at graduation!

Wedding dos.

2008-09-08T20:49:00.006-06:00

We made it ALL THE WAY back to Ohio late last night.
I stayed in my pajamas all day and caught up on some things but I refuse to go to bed without posting some pictures of the other reason we went to Idaho: Ashlee's wedding.
I love my siblings and my siblings-in-law. I would fly around the country with sextuplets if I needed to be somewhere for them. (right now I'm obsessed with Jon & Kate Plus 8)

So enjoy the pics, y'all!

p.s. Ashlee MADE HER OWN CAKE! I saw!

Weekend Adventures

2008-09-01T14:38:00.001-06:00

Thanks to your advice, encouragement, and a lot of sugar-free candy, the boys and I made it to Idaho without any major melt-downs. I threw out all my correct parenting techniques and used bribery, excessive spoiling, a buffet of snacks, and a leash instead. It worked great. Pat on the back to whoever suggested it: I didn't give him any sugar and I think that helped prevent his usual 'traveling grumpies'.

Note: The cheap headphones and earbuds do not work in a noisy airplane.

Change of subject. Have anyone of you been annoyed that there is not a pleasant substitution for the word, "Booger". I realized this because, lately, Grant will hold up his finger and call out to me, "A big booger, Mommy!" (Very embarrassing in public) So my mom and I have come up with our own little word for it: A snuffle.

Weekend Adventures cont.

2008-09-01T14:01:00.004-06:00

Mason and Lorie's wedding was beautiful (in a sing-song voice). I am so excited to have a new sister-in-law. Mason looked very, very happy! Here are some pictures from my mom's camera... I can't wait to download mine.