The McMartin Family

Bub's New Vision

2010-04-20T23:02:00.000-07:00

Turns out Logan's got his mother's near-sightedness. Couldn't see the board at school. A trip to the eye dr. took care of that. Poor kid - got his dad's cowlicks and his mama's eyes. He still has his good looks though!! We sure love this easy kid...

He digs baseball. He also digs helping his dad at the property. He digs reading. He doesn't dig cleaning his room. Man, I love this guy, this mini-me of the man I fell in love with 10 years ago. Happy...

"Please Sir, Can I have some more?"

2010-04-08T21:56:00.000-07:00

Every time David and I see this picture it makes us laugh. Because it's so pitiful... So reminds me of a poor pauper child from the movie Oliver Twist. (Minus the Hello Kitty jammies, of course :)

Back in March, Jenna's head came in to contact with Logan's swinging baseball bat. I was in the house and didn't see the incident but I HEARD it. It was awful. Yep, Logan got in big trouble, since he's been told as a wee one the dangers of swinging a baseball bat willy nilly without knowing who's around him. He felt really bad, though. He came right in and cleaned up the whole kitchen and then kept his room clean for a week! I was a little worried about a concussion, but so far she hasn't been acting goofy or anything...

Here's another photo for posterity:

Things around our house have sure been hopping: Kids on three different baseball teams in two different towns, CalState TEACH Term 3 (of 4) is winding down which means lots of work because I've procrastinated till the end, church callings, Scouts, house plans, piano lessons, work, laundry, dishes, bathrooms, etc. etc. etc......

Right now I just want to crawl into a hole or be whisked away to a remote tropical island, but alas....

Happenings...

2010-03-07T19:11:00.000-08:00

I'm taking this time out from doing a homework assignment due at noon tomorrow to the State of California (yep, it's the day before -that's how I roll), to do some blogging about some pictures that have been in my camera for a few weeks.

I'll start with tonight's FHE treat. This is such a fun, easy idea that I had to share. Do you love S'Mores? Who doesn't? We made Indoor S'Mores by simply roasting marshmallows over Sterno cans. (I found mine in the camping section at WalMart) So fun and easy and you don't even have to gather firewood!!

Logan is enjoying being in Cub Scouts. They had their annual Blue and Gold Banquet. Our ward has a tradition of the boys and their dads creating a cake based on the theme. Logan and David created a beautiful fondant-covered blue 100 with gold stars. (Did you know this is the Boy Scouts of America's 100th year?) I don't think David will ever use fondant again. They did a great job though, I think.
Logan earned his Bobcat that night and I got my first Mom's pin. He was so cute about pinning it on me...

Hannah was a lead role in the last high school play of her career. She's a really awesome actress. It's kinda funny though, that she always plays a mom in every play. This is her as Ernie's mother in the one-act play "Ernie's Incredible Illucinations" Very cute play...

I took my gifted students to San Francisco for a day to attend the traveling King Tut exhibit. We saw lots of really old stuff covered in gold. It was absolutely incredible. I'm not sure if the kids appreciated it as much as I did but I hope that the significance of it might sink in one day.

One last thing I had to document was this cute picture of Sadie wanting jump into Jenna's bath water. She's really a cute puppy and we continue to fall in love despite the difficulties of house training.
That's all for now...my blog is updated and now you can all get back to your lives. Thanks for taking the time to stop by!!

Heaven Help Us...

2010-02-04T23:49:00.000-08:00

SERIOUSLY...How could anything be so cute??!!

We had been thinking for a few months about getting a small dog to keep in the house but had a hard time committing. We knew we wanted a "hypo-allergenic" dog. (I'm not big on dog hair all over the house) It also had to be small. While at work David came across this puppy's brother at a customer's home and called me and asked me if he could bring a puppy home.

So...meet Sadie... She's a yorkshire terrier, pure-bred, (expensive), and adorable.

We have fallen in love. She has the best temperament and LOVES, LOVES playing with the kids. She's definitely keeping us entertained. (We're not loving the potty training, but for the most part she's keeping it on the tile floor)

All Together

2009-12-30T20:36:00.000-08:00

All the kids were home for Christmas! We had a wonderful time and went out to the new property to take some recent family pics.

"The Day Before Christmas at Bangor School"

2009-12-18T18:31:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to post some pics from the school holiday program that I put together. These pictures are pretty bad and I didn't get too many which makes me a little sad - (Hannah's fired as photographer - If I can ever figure out my video camera I'll post some of the video later).

We had a rousing raucous time. The whole school even danced the macarena to the tune of "Jingle Bell Rock". Each of the six classes had their own numbers with narrators reciting a version of the poem "Twas The Night Before Christmas" to link them all together. And there were a few other numbers too. Jenna and her BFF sang Silent Night to wrap it all up.

It was pretty low-key Bangor style but many of the community members came up to me after and told me that it was the best Bangor holiday recital ever. (Tooting my own horn ;-)

My favorite...Logan's class singing "The Chipmunk Song". I had a lot of fun putting everything together. I learned a lot too and say "Bring on next year!"

Futures

2009-12-01T23:10:00.000-08:00

David and Wendy are now the proud owners of this:

5 Acres of beautiful ground in Bangor, CA

And a good amount of debt.

Almost 10 years of marriage and we are getting that much closer to realizing dreams and goals of building the exact home that is right for us. We love the property and are excited about the possibilities. So, bring on the stress!!

Here is our motley Thanksgiving Day McMartin crew. Sure do love these people!!

October 31 - A Day to Remember

2009-11-14T15:33:00.000-08:00

Logan turned eight on October 18th and when I found out that the stake baptism was scheduled for Halloween I have to admit that I wasn't too excited about that. I don't know why but it just seemed a little weird to me. When I told David about it, he kind of smiled a little and told me that he was baptized on Halloween. Then my heart was softened and thought that day was pretty special. The baptism turned out good. We were a little sad that we weren't able to participate on the program because there were four others being baptized that day and apparently they make the assignments first come first served. But I think that Logan had a memorable experience and I hope that he will always remember it. (His mom just has to remember that the ordinance is the important part.) I'm so proud of Logan and his decision to follow Jesus and be baptized.

Nana and Papa Howard came all the way from Thatcher to be with him and Kayla came all the way from Utah and there were so many ward members there to support him. (Loma Rica Ward really rocks!) We also had a fun get together at our house afterward for lunch. Thanks to the Pietz's and Jacobson's and Leah too for coming. It's hard to get people to come to Bangor on a Saturday so I'm thankful for good friends!

Our family picture from the day. Erica's the only one missing which makes us sad but I love this photo.

At the end of the day, this is what he transformed into. The cutest Jack Sparrow you ever saw!

I LOVE YOU LOGAN!!!

Sisters

2009-11-14T15:11:00.000-08:00

There are few things in life as precious as having a good sister. I speak from experience because I love my sisters! It's so fun to get together with them (miss you girls!) even though we never get that chance anymore. Life is just too hectic and too hard to coordinate so many lives. They all have big families and throw in the fact that we are spread out from the Pacific to the Atlantic (OK, just me and Cami, but that's 1/3 of us anyway) and it makes getting together miraculous.

My baby girl is so lucky to have sisters that she can look up to. The older two sisters have been harder for her to get to know because she was smaller when they left but she still loves them and misses them and often tells me so. But I probably can't express how much Jenna loves her Big Sis Hannah. Hannah is the bee's knee's in Jenna's eyes and what a thrill for her when they got to be matching Supergirls for Halloween! Thank you Hannah for being such a great example to Jenna!

"Santa goes online??"

2009-11-13T18:29:00.000-08:00

My children are getting harder and harder to fool. I feel like such a liar. Today's conversation with Jenna...

Me: "Jenna, Hunny, you may have to choose between an American Girl doll and a Baby Chou Chou. I don't think Santa can get both."
Jenna (with a puzzled look): "Santa can't afford it?"
Me: "Um, no, Santa can't afford to get all of the kids everything they want. You'll have to choose..."
Jenna: "But, wait, you mean Santa has to BUY the toys? I thought he had his very own factory to make the toys."
Me (grasping at straws): "Actually, sometimes he buys the toys from the stores."
Jenna (with a puzzled look): "You mean Santa actually goes to the store? Don't people SEE him?"
Me (frantic now): "Well, Santa has a lot of helpers. He probably sends the helpers in disguise." "Or, maybe he buys everything online?"
Jenna: "SANTA GOES ONLINE? (laughing) No wonder Santa has the time to get all of those toys for all the kids."

My sentiments exactly...

Shew - situation diverted for now... My kids are gonna be real disappointed when they find out I've been lying to them.

Slacker Blogger = Long Post

2009-10-26T20:57:00.000-07:00

I REALLY enjoy looking at my family/friends blogs. I don't know if my family/friends enjoy looking at mine but I thought for posterity's sake I oughta put in an update.

First off...which is what brought my blog to mind...I got THIS in the mail today.

A few months ago I was a "winner" on Suzette's pay it forward blog post. Imagine my surprise when I went to the mailbox today and found a cute little craft and some homemade bread and jelly. Suzette, you are one of my favorite people and also one of the most talented people I know! The treat I had for lunch today was delicious! I THANK YOU AND LOVE YOU AND MISS BEING AROUND YOU!!! It made my day...

Now on to September's highlights - yep, I'm that far behind.

David and I went to an 80s birthday party of some friends in our ward...David had the worst mullet ever and I had fun teasing my hair.

Logan and Jenna ran cross-country for their school. They both did rather well, placing just about every race! I'm such a proud mommy.

My baby turned six! (And I got a few more gray hairs) This is her blowing out her birthday pancake candles.

We had a little family party and Kayla even came to town for it! She came for a visit because she thought she was going to get to see Erica while she was here on leave but Erica is on the Army's time and didn't make it as expected. Erica got here a few days later but we didn't see her much so I don't have any photos.

Jenna had her MUCH anticipated first dance recital. Her ballet class did a dance called "Garden of Delight" which was very delightful. Jenna LOVES LOVES LOVES dancing and if you've ever watched her you'll see that.

Now on to October as it stands so far...

We made a quick trip to Utah to see Kayla's graduation from massage therapy school.

The parentals pause for a picture in front of the pretty waterfall. Hannah fell in trying to get the cool picture. It was really hard not to laugh but I felt really bad for her. Her boots were full of water!

Quick! Name that place.... Ahhh...Look how well they're getting along!

Logan turned 8 (!) He is super excited to be baptized on the 31st. How weird and cool at the same time to get baptized on Halloween.

So many more things are going on. Jordan is wrapping up football, I'm trying to keep my head above water with school and work and all (I'm drowning...), OH...and we just bought 5 acres of property with plans to build a home in the near future. Life is crazy!!!

Keeping her momma in line

2009-08-28T22:27:00.000-07:00

A little bit of journaling for posterity's sake...

Lately I've been trying (but not too hard) to lose some weight. I lost a few pounds and gained them back but eh, whatever. I know I need to get a little more serious. I somehow mentioned to Jenna that I was trying to lose some weight and one night I was eating something that wasn't very good for me. I think it was an ice cream sandwich or something. She says to me "Mommy? Is that how you lose weight?" She caught me!

Then tonight I was trying to workout on my new "The Wave" contraption that I suckered myself from the infomercial from "The Firm". The kids were so excited for me to get this thing, let me tell ya! They've been waiting for it and whenever we would see a FedEx truck in the neighborhood they would say "Maybe they have your exercise thing Mommy" So funny. Anyway, I put in the instruction DVD and literally did like three moves on "The Wave" along with the ladies on the DVD and Jenna says:

"Mommy! It's Working! You're losing weight, I can see it!"

Everybody needs a cheerleader like that :-)

First Day of School!!

2009-08-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

Yeah for another year at Bangor School! Jenna could hardly contain her excitement at FINALLY starting Kindergarten. Logan was ecstatic to be back in Mrs. Roenspie's class as a second grader this year. Mommy will be running the GATE program and teaching some Visual and Performing Arts and trying to earn my teaching credential too from an online program through Fresno State. Cheers to a busy 09/10 school year!!!

Happy Birthday Jordan!

2009-08-19T20:06:00.000-07:00

How does this happen anyway? You turn around and the little boy you knew is becoming a man. If anybody figures that out let me know. Love you Jordan!

Disney Fun

2009-08-18T14:35:00.000-07:00

From the editor: Please note that I am incompetent at arranging the pictures in my Blogger posts. This post will be about matching the captions with the photos :/

Our vacation of choice is always Disneyland. We had different plans this year but at the last minute we decided we would spend just as much money as we would at Disneyland. So...we packed up the Expedition and took off! We couldn't have asked for better weather and with most places having started school the crowds were pretty bearable. Good times....

In our messy hotel room the first night. The parentals all smiles.

A good view of the Matterhorn Jenna lost her very first tooth standing in line for the Jungle Cruise!

Just Mommy and Jenna standing in line... Aunt Trish joined us the first day. Love her!!

Awww....Best Friends

Josh joined us the last day.

For posterity's sake - our favorite things about Disneyland this trip:

Jenna - "The stink bug and the poison" from It's a Bug's Life (??? - OK)

Logan - "Screaming" (Logan was tall enough to ride everything this year!)

Dad - "California Screamin'"

Mom - "Listening to Logan try to explain to Crush the turtle what a bikini top is for :) in Turtle Talk with Crush and trying to dip my feet in the water in Soarin' Over California and watching the smiles on my kids' faces.

(I am unable to poll Hannah and Jordan and Josh at this time)

Why Must All Good Things Come To An End?

2009-08-11T19:23:00.000-07:00

I've been a pretty horrible blogger lately....My blog has pretty much gone the way of the rest of my summer....Sleeping in, lazying in front of the TV, laying out by the pool while the kids swim, etc., etc., What a loser!

I had the best intentions for the summer. I was going to get caught up on all of the things that have gone by the wayside after many long semesters of college. But the only thing I managed to do was knock down the sleep deficit a little. (Much needed, though!)

So we say goodbye to summer. Yay for school! Yay for a schedule! Yay for hecticness! Yay for homework! Work! Work! Work!!

I'm sorry I just made you all read that...

We do get to have one last hurrah before school starts next week. We're surprising the kiddos with a trip to Disneyland tomorrow (they think we're going to the Jelly Belly Factory - heehee!) SO EXCITED! I LOVE DISNEYLAND!! Many thanks to PG&E for providing my husband with much work and overtime while the wife and kids lazed it up so that we could spend 3 days standing in line at Space Mountain.

Beauty Sleep

2009-06-28T21:20:00.000-07:00

I've been attempting to sort through the endless array of pics inside my computer screaming "Print me! Print me!" (That Sam's Club bill is not gonna be pretty....Not that my Sam's Club bill ever is, I mean does anybody ever get out of there for less than a hundred? Let's just say that I have definitely contributed a fair share to Mr. Walton's grandkids' college funds. tangent, sorry!)

Anyhoo...

I JUST HAD TO SHARE THESE CUTE PICS OF MY SUPER GIRLY GIRL GETTING HER BEAUTY SLEEP

She doesn't really snore but is convinced that she needs these nose strips to help her sleep

And she's so funny about this mask...Whatever it takes to get the best night's sleep possible right?

May

2009-06-06T10:08:00.000-07:00

I think of all the months in the year - My favorite has to be May. Not only because my birthday is in May - but so many fun things happen in May: flowers, birthdays, Mother's Day, graduations, baseball, visits from loved ones, warmth...I love May. Here are just a few of our happenings from this past May.

Pomp and Circumstance

2009-05-23T15:54:00.000-07:00

It's been a long haul!!

And I have all these people to thank...

Motherhood

2009-05-13T11:13:00.000-07:00

I LOVE THESE GUYS!

Here's just a little lament about my life as a mom. I don't profess to be a good poet or anything, in fact, this is terrible, just something I spewed out in a few minutes, but maybe it'll make some of you out there smile. Hope your day is happy!!

I am a mom

by Wendy McMartin

I am a mom

I wipe noses and bums

I yell "pick up this, pick up that!"

And cook dinners that make them go yum

I am a mom

I drive a bus and a taxi

I wash loads and loads of laundry

And at the end of the day still have to feel sexy

I am a mom

Each day feels like the races

I often wonder why I keep on running

And then all I have to do is look in their faces

My 4th

2009-04-29T20:10:00.000-07:00

I've seen this tag elsewhere - I was curious what my Fourth Folder, Fourth Picture was. This one makes me smile!

What's your fourth?

Happy Spring!

2009-04-18T20:29:00.000-07:00

Hannah went to prom tonight. Her date was her good friend Sutton. (AKA Prince Charming...see previous Cinderella post)

Doesn't she look so pretty? They make a pretty cute couple, I think. ;)

Check my Facebook for more prom pics. I don't feel like waiting for blogger...

One day during Spring Break we took a hike to Feather Falls. This waterfall is only a few miles from our house and is the 6th highest waterfall in the US and it is spectacular. My pictures don't really do it justice. I guess you'll all just have to come visit and make the 9 mile roundtrip hike with us sometime. This was our first trip to them. It was actually a very nice walk - until about the last 2.5 miles coming back STRAIGHT UP. (ouch!)

Note about Spring Break - I was planning to majorly catch up with my schoolwork that needs to be completed by Friday the 24th. Do you think I did any of it? NNNNOOOO.... I am now in procrastination HELL stressing about getting it all done in time. But at least spring break was nice and relaxing and low key.

We had a good Easter Sunday. Went to church, then came home and had an egg hunt for the kids and ate ham with David's Ma and Pa and his Brother Teenie and our new nephew (a black lab puppy)

Here's a pic of the kids except Jordan who was at his mom's. I love dressing everybody for Easter.

That's good for now. Pray for me as I attempt to get my homework done on time. I will be hibernating on my favorite place on the couch to work with red-rimmed eyes and a sore back and neck from hunching over the laptop. Seriously, do you think I'll ever learn? If you see me on Facebook kick me off.

March 25, 2000

2009-03-25T13:22:00.000-07:00

The happiest, scariest, most exciting, most nerve-racking, yet most peaceful day of my life happened 9 years ago today. It's amazing how you can live one day at a time and then blink and it's been 9 years. So much has happened in all this time and I'm excited for an eternity of more.

Rubbish and Drivel! Dearly Beloved...

2009-03-14T23:14:00.000-07:00

What a fun weekend! We had the distinct pleasure of watching our two very talented teenagers perform in their school's production of the musical Cinderella. Hannah was so good as the Stepmother. My favorite line.."Rubbish and Drivel!" Jordan was a recruited all-over extra with one line..."Dearly Beloved" as the minister at the wedding of Cinderella and the Prince. We have the video that is borrowed out right now but as soon as I get it back I'll try to post a couple clips.

Jenna LOVED LOVED it! She already knew all of the songs because Hannah has been watching the movie for a few weeks now. (You know the production starring Brandy as Cinderella with a black queen, white king, and Asian prince? Same songs, script, etc...) Anyway, Jenna sang along the entire time. Logan really liked it too, I can tell, he just won't tell you that.

She had to have a photo with the Prince.

And with Cinderella, of course. Cinderella was played by Holly, one of Hannah's friends, who Jenna totally idolizes.

Mom of the Year

2009-03-09T14:57:00.000-07:00

You know you're too busy...when, on your way to a PTA fundraiser, you look through your rearview mirror at your child in the backseat and see him eating a doughnut in between two Doritos.

I had an epiphany...I've been doing so much away from home; Little League has started, PTA at the school, school volunteering, student teaching, homework, etc., etc., etc. It's funny how I do all these things that I think are for my kids and in reality I don't even have time to fix them a nutritious meal. Something has to give. I'm taking a break from school after this term but I'm sure I'll find some other way to fill the time....

Paying it Forward from Suzette

2009-02-26T18:10:00.000-08:00

Here's to Suzette! I can't wait to get something from her in the mail...

Here's a fun blogging game...

Be one of the first three people to leave a comment on this post and you'll receive something handmade (I guess I'll have to be crafty!) from me sometime in the next year.

Come on now, I know you'll be fighting over it! But there is a catch. You have to do the same thing on your blog, so if you don't have a blog too bad. (Sorry Mom, I know you were dying to get something that I made ;)

Fun!!!

Fun with Photoshop

2009-02-23T18:48:00.000-08:00

As if I didn't have anything better to do... Logan and Jenna were laughing so hard at these. "Put it on the blog, Mommy, put it on the blog!" So here you go...

We call this one "Too Many HotDogs"

"Logan Leno"

"David's Mini-Me"

Snow Fun

2009-02-22T22:01:00.000-08:00

Saturday we took some time out to go up to the snow and have fun. We drove up the hill a few miles from our house and found some beautiful new snow. The day was sunny and beautiful and the kids had fun sledding and throwing snowballs. We also took a camp stove and some hot dogs, hot chocolate, and donuts and had a yummy lunch. We played until everybody got too wet and cold to enjoy themselves. Then we stripped down and rode home in the car in our underwear and did laundry the rest of the day. Good times...

What came in the mail today

2009-02-17T21:23:00.000-08:00

It all comes down to this...

I've been working really hard the past few years for this piece of paper.

I will don a cap and gown in May when they have the ceremony, but I'm wondering what they hand you when you walk across the stage since I already have my diploma. Hmmm...

But here's the reality: this is me DOING HOMEWORK while displaying my diploma. That's right...when you're done, you're not really done. Now that I have my Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, which basically means that I know a little bit about everything, I am in a year-long credential program to earn a "Multiple Subjects" credential to teach K-8th grade in California. I'm spending a lot of time inside a 5/6th grade classroom gaining experience and learning how to write lesson plans. I'm also doing some substitute teaching (which is a very thankless job, btw). I'm actually really enjoying myself which tells me that I'm doing the right thing (whew!) And I get to do it all in Bangor which for me means I'm saving a LOT of gas money.

I'm already thinking about a Master's (that's right, glutton for punishment I am). But, seriously, I LOVE learning. I am grateful to my family, especially my dear husband, for putting up with me being a stressed-out college student for the past few years.

BTW...Here's an interesting fact about Chico State: "The Biggest Party School in California" and on some lists it's "The Biggest Party School in America." The student body really prides itself on that fact. Let's just say that I, the Mormon Mom of 7, didn't really fit in. I'm so glad I don't have to spend any more time on that campus.

A LOVE-ly Day

2009-02-15T13:23:00.000-08:00

Heart-Shaped Cinnamon French Toast....Mmmmm

We had a great Valentine's Day. I made this for my family for breakfast. Then David and I went to a matinee and lunch. We decided to avoid the Valentine's Day Dinner frenzy. It was really lovely to spend a Saturday afternoon with my sweetie. Then we just chilled with the kids last night. Hope you all had a great Valentine's Day!

Joshua David

2009-02-07T18:03:00.000-08:00

Can anyone imagine living primarily in a home with two step-parents? It is a lesser-known fact that David's oldest, Josh, is actually his stepson. Josh was 18 months old, when David met his mom. His mom named him after his uncle David and then she married a David. Josh really never had a relationship with his biological father and David never treated him any differently than his biological kids. He goes by his given name now (Simon) because it was never actually legally changed and when you become an adult, you kind of have to go by your given name. But growing up through school and everything he was always Josh McMartin. David says he never really legally adopted Joshua because it just wasn't necessary or worth the hassle. David has been sealed to Josh, though, which in my view is the most important (eternity!) My point in saying all of this, I guess, is that it must have really been something to deal with.

The first time I met Josh, I remember being really amazed at how small he was for 14. The first time he answered the phone, I would have sworn it was Hannah, because his voice was really high. He's always been really small in stature but large in smarts. His parents had him tested to see if there was a real reason that he was much smaller than average. The doctors just said that his body wasn't using the human growth hormone effectively. He's still short but not abnormal. But as for being smart, well, he just is. He loves to read and always has. I think that kids who love to read just have an advantage.

Josh is an amazing person. He loves to tease the younger kids, and they love being teased by him. He's always had good friends. He earned his Eagle Scout award. He served a two-year mission in Chile and thrived. We are really proud of his accomplishments.

Right now he's doing whatever it takes to make his way in this world. It's hard to imagine, the way things are in the world right now, what life will look like for these kids in twenty years. He's facing the challenges of college enrollment and trying to hold down a full-time job at the same time. He's finding it difficult to do both so at this point he's just working. (Been there, done that) Right now, I think he's content to be the bachelor with little responsibility, but he'll come around sooner or later. Someday he'll be a good husband and dad. He's had enough experience with little ones that's for sure. (Josh is the oldest of eight siblings!)

We're glad get to see him about once a week.

LOVE YOU JOSH!!!

Happy Birthday to My Hunny!

2009-02-04T17:30:00.000-08:00

I interrupt the kid blog posts to wish my husband a happy birthday today!! (Stay tuned for Joshua's post...coming soon!)

February 4th is a very good day. Not only is it my husband's birthday, it's also the anniversary of our engagement. Wasn't that clever of him to propose on his birthday? Now we'll never forget.

He woke up this morning to a "heart attack" that Hannah gave him. Very cute.

In honor of his birthday, here are 45 fun facts about David that I love (thanks to Desiree for the idea - except she only had to write 26):

1) His family is the most important thing to him.

2) He's one of the hardest working men I know.

3) He is so friendly to everyone he meets, but is still so shy.

4) He has the cutest cowlick in the hairline right above his forehead.

5) He never drives faster than the speed limit.

6) He takes at least two showers a day. Sometimes three or more.

7) His favorite pastime (when he has time to pass) is woodworking.

8) He never has time to pass because he's always working so hard for us.

9) He loves to do little things to surprise me.

10) He's always very sensitive to my needs.

11) He gives me awesome backrubs.

12) He only wears pants at work - otherwise, he can't stand to have his calves covered. (He has nice calves)

13) He anticipates everything a sports commentator will say, no matter what sport he's watching.

14) He doesn't ever expect me to be interested in Sportscenter.

15) He leaves little notes for me, in places where I wouldn't expect to find notes from him. Usually in places where I need a pick-me-up, like college textbooks.

16) He would beat anybody in a game of sports trivia.

17) He tries to remain cheerful, even after working an 18-hour shift.

18) He honors the Priesthood that he holds.

19) He leads our home with a righteous purpose.

20) He loves his parents.

21) He loves his brothers.

22) He doesn't let his past haunt our marriage.

23) He has no fashion sense (Yes, I love that about him because he doesn't care about trivial stuff like if his shoes match)

24) He is sooo handsome in a suit.

25) He is THE MOST organized person I know.

26) He doesn't always let it get to him that I am NOT the most organized person.

27) He is very patient.

28) He rarely raises his voice. He has NEVER raised his voice with me.

29) He takes challenges in stride.

30) He can fix ANYTHING.

31) He is always so willing to help people.

32) He is so smart, but doesn't think so.

33) No matter how annoying it is to have Logan shadow his every move when he's trying to work on something at home, he loves that Logan likes to shadow his every move.

34) He is very good with his hands. ;)

35) He knows when I need an afternoon nap on Sundays and makes me take one.

36) He is very supportive of me and my schooling which is such a pain in the neck.

37) He never complains when we have hot dogs for dinner.

38) He loves the family I came from.

39) He is so good with kids. Even kids that aren't his.

40) He has the best smile.

41) He has a quiet resolve.

42) He gives the best hugs.

43) He always smells good.

44) His favorite food is my lasagna.

45) He is the complete package for me.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HONEY! THANKS FOR BEING YOU...

Erica

2009-02-02T10:00:00.000-08:00

I took this photo the day after Christmas. We were so lucky to have Erica home before she shipped out to Iraq for a year.

So here I am at the next to the oldest. The oldest daughter. Erica Marie. What can I say about Erica here on my humble little blog? When I think about these kids, it's hard to not think about how their parents' divorce affected them. It has definitely affected them each differently. Erica, I think, just may be the one with the most lasting effects.

Erica was 13 when her dad and I got together. When I showed up that night at their door with their dad, Erica was the first to greet me. Her dad told me this later, but before that night Erica asked him what she should do or say when I came. He told her that she should just do or say what comes naturally. Well, I walked in, I saw Erica, looked at her, and said "Erica, right?" (I had been practicing names and ages - I felt pretty confident that I knew who each of them were.) She said, "Yes, I'm Erica," and then she gave me a hug. It was very sweet.

From the beginning, I was determined to be good friends with these kids, and for some reason, I was especially determined to win Erica's heart. Somehow I felt that she would be a tough one, but, at least early on, we got along really well. I think that we were both determined to please each other. I came to realize that what Erica needed was a good example, a cheerleader, and a friend. I don't know, considering the way things have turned out, if what I have done was adequate enough. I just hope that someway, somehow, I have had some positive influence. (At least I fed her some good meals!)

Erica has taught me much about myself. I have learned that "unconditional love" is not as easy to come by for your stepchildren than it is for your own natural children. I have learned that I have limits and I'm not as tolerant as I thought I was. I have learned that I have many things to learn.

Here's the thing about Erica. Erica cannot be told. She must experience something for herself in order to learn a lesson. I'm not saying this is necessarily bad. I think it's a quality that can be used for good. Erica has always wanted to experience many things. I think her decision to join the army has been good for her. She will definitely now experience many things. She is learning to be independent. She is learning to be accountable for herself. I hope that she will learn how important family is. I hope that she will learn what makes a good friend.

Erica is one strong woman. If she sets her mind to something, she does it! I remember her determination to earn her Young Womanhood Recognition Award. Once she set her mind to becoming a soldier, she did it! Erica doesn't seem to be afraid of anything. She has a beautiful singing voice. She has never been afraid to stand up in front of hundreds of people and sing a solo.

Erica and I aren't too close now. Her and I are so different. She's loud and boisterous at times. I'm exactly the opposite. She makes friends easily. I don't. I think that trust between her and me was lost somewhere along the line. I want her to know, though, that I care VERY MUCH about her and her welfare. I have been tough on her because I love her. She, and her siblings, are an extension of their father, who is my eternal mate, who I love more than words can say. That makes Erica and her siblings eternal to me. I'm just glad that we have an eternity to learn about each other and to love.

We pray for her every night that she will be kept safe. We know she's in the way of danger. But we also know that she's where she's supposed to be right now.

I LOVE YOU ERICA!!

Sweetheart Kayla

2009-01-28T19:43:00.000-08:00

Kayla in a Utah winter

So, it's been awhile since we had Kayla home. I didn't have ANY current pictures of her. She had a friend take her picture and she sent it to me. Man, how I'd like to get my camera on her. I'm trying to talk her dad into taking us to SLC for conference in April. Maybe I can get some better pics then. Don't hold your breath though.

Our Kayla Janeane is so beautiful, inside and out.

Right now, she's living in Utah with her aunt. She was working at a hotel in Midway, but has recently become a victim of the economy. Now she's donating plasma. Pray for her. I think she'd just come home but you see, she's in massage therapy school, AND SHE HAS TO FINISH so that she can home and give me a massage. So, no, she can't come home YET.

So, me and Kayla, hmmm... When I became a McMartin, Kayla was 11. I think 11 is one of the most awkward ages. When I was 11...6th grade, enough said. (Someday I'll blog about 6th grade. Stay tuned...) When I was trying to get to know Kayla back when, I tried to remember what it was like to be in the 6th grade. Kayla and I have a lot in common, I think. We both know how it feels to carry around extra weight, and be teased, and have low self-esteem. Kayla has never let it get the best of her.

Kayla is the middle of an Erica and Hannah sandwich. A third born. Here are some other third borns I know: Aunt Trish, Aunt Jeanne, Cami, Shari, Shelby, Dhanni... Not that being a third child in the middle of a sandwich defines you, but wait, I think it does. I'm rambling, Sorry.

I have to tease a little bit. Here's some funny things about Kayla that I can recall from those early days: She had these moon shoes, that she thought were the coolest things. These shoes were the in thing for 6th graders of the time, I guess. They were turquoise and white and they were so high she couldn't even wear them to school. They were the ugliest shoes I've ever seen. (Sorry, Kay :-) She wanted roller blades for Christmas that first year SO BAD. She got them, but the funny thing is, there's not too many places in Bangor to rollerblade. (I'm serious) We took them on a trip to AZ in the spring so she could use them. The van was so loaded up that most of our stuff was strapped to the top, along with Kayla's rollerblades. Kayla's beloved rollerblades are now somewhere along I-10 in between Phoenix and Blythe. (I hope nobody lost a windshield) Once, David was trying to teach his kids a lesson about money and the importance of saving. Kayla wasn't too afraid of running out of money, Dad "still had checks."

Kayla is THE SWEETEST person I know (and I'm not just saying that) She's the one in the family who remembers every birthday and makes sure that everyone feels her love. Someday she's really gonna make some boy out there happy. She's got so much love in her heart to give.

Kayla's a Pisces, which I'm told are very giving and compassionate and unselfish. I don't follow astrology, or believe in it, but whatever, seems to fit.

She's proving to be a responsible adult and is learning her way in this big cruel world. I miss her so much (and hope that this post doesn't embarrass her too much.) Our home definitely feels a void without her here. Jenna has a special affection for Kayla, she especially misses her.

LOVE YOU KAYKAY!!

Here's a couple of Kayla's senior pics. (That I took, thank you very much) I'm gonna have to see what I can do to these in Photoshop. But not right now. Does she have the most AMAZING eyes or what? I've never seen prettier green eyes.

Hannah Hanna Bo Banna...

2009-01-25T14:28:00.000-08:00

Banana Fanna Fo Fanna....Fee Fi Mo Manna...HANNAH

ISN'T SHE BEAUTIFUL?

Did you know that Hannah's name is a palindrome? Just like radar, madam, and hubbub. How many can you think of?

Anyway...What can I say about Hannah except for that I can't think of her name without singing "The Name Game" in my head?

If there was ever an EASY kid, it's this one. That first awkward night that I mentioned earlier when I met all of the kids, Hannah was just barely 8 and she was wearing a tutu. I knew from that point on that we would be friends. I love taking Hannah shopping and hanging out with her and her friends. I know this is cliche but they make me feel like a young girl again. I love that we can sing in the car to the radio together and share the same iTunes library. She likes my cheesy "LDS Superhits of the 80's and 90's", and old Bon Jovi tunes, and my "musicals" playlist, and I like listening to most of her stuff.

Hannah's 17 now and although she's a scary driver, she's one of the most driven teenagers I know. (Meaning she knows what she wants and works to get it, just don't drive in the car with her ;) ) She has set some really honorable and ambitious goals for herself and I have no doubt that she will meet those goals. She works hard to get good grades and challenges herself by taking all the AP classes she can.

Sure, every teenager has challenges but I think the difference is how they deal with those challenges. Hannah tries to remain cheerful all of the time and has a good outlook on life. She's friendly to everyone she meets and people love her.

Side Note: Hannah is playing the "Evil Stepmother" in her school's production of the musical "Cinderella". She's a great little actress and we can't wait to see her in it. (I just hope that she has no need to draw from personal experience...haha) If anyone wants to travel to Bangor to see the play in March, you're all welcome!

LOVE YOU GIRL!!

Baby of the First Five and Me

2009-01-22T19:38:00.000-08:00

When I came in to this young man's life he was only 5 years old. Exactly the same age as Jenna is now which, by the way, gives me a new perspective. I remember meeting him for the first time. What an awkward night...but that's a story for a different time.

Thinking back on that time, I can't really imagine what must have been going through this kid's head. This woman was coming into his life to take away his dad, it must have seemed. Thinking about it also makes me understand the relationship that Jordan and I now have.

(True confessions, here) Of all David's children, this is the one relationship that has been the most strained. I'm sure that there's a bunch of psychology involved considering his age at the time and his place as the baby of the family. You see, he and I have always had this power struggle. I took his place in the bed next to his dad. He was a little insecure from his life as a toddler. I've heard some horror stories and can't imagine my own kids having to endure what he and his siblings have endured. When David told the kids we were getting married, Jordan's idea of marriage was a little mixed up. He was ready to accept the fact that I would be his stepmom "until you get divorced."

I wasn't so willing at the time to share my place in the bed with my new husband. I admit it, I was resentful and jealous and immature about waking up in the middle of the night with Jordan in between me and David. Sometimes I gave up and slept on the couch. Life wasn't always rosy in those first few months as we all adjusted to me being in a house with 5 kids who belonged there first.

As a result of those early times, I think he just tolerates me now. I try to put up with all of the idiosyncracies that drive me nuts. Like soaking wet moldy towels and underwear in his gym bag, or stickers in his socks from wearing them in the yard that get stuck in my silky garments in the wash, or the way he holds his fork. Sometimes I feel mean.

This 14-year-old kid is now in the throws of adolescence, trying to learn what life is REALLY all about. I just hope he knows that I pick on him so much BECAUSE I LOVE HIM. I want him to be successful and happy and get everything out of life that he deserves.

Above everything I've said about him, Jordan is a GOOD KID. He has about him a desire to be the best. He works hard to get good grades. He's always interested in learning new skills and ideas. He makes friends easily, and stays out of trouble. He knows right from wrong. (He can also help me with my math homework!) Logan and Jenna adore him and look up to him, even when he's being the typical big brother who gets annoyed by his little brother and sister.

So there you have it. Me and Jordan. I hope that I've done something for him that will make a difference in his life.

My Bubba

2009-01-20T22:33:00.000-08:00

The Dilly Bar on his face makes me smile

So, it seems like all of my posts have been about Jenna lately. I now resolve to blog about my other kids too.

This is my Bubba and he is my very favorite 7 year old on this planet. There are so many words to describe Logan. I'll list a few: SENSITIVE, CARING, CREATIVE, ACTIVE, SMART, HANDSOME, INQUISITIVE, QUIET. ...and the list goes on. Funny thing is, I could use all of these words to describe his father. Logan is his daddy's little shadow and is so much like him and is always right under foot when David is working on his different projects. He so much looks up to his dad and I love that he wants to be like him because his dad is a good person to be like.

I have a sweet story to tell that happened tonight which made me think that I needed to post about my Bubba. He has a small air-soft gun that he got for his birthday. We've laid down the rules when it comes to shooting the gun (only in a certain area outside), putting it on safety, etc., etc. (If I had my way, there would be no guns at all, but sometimes Mom doesn't get her way) Anyway, I was in the bathroom scrubbing the floor on my hands and knees (woe is me) and he came in to brush his teeth for bed. He haphazardly without even thinking had the gun in his hand, lifted it, and pulled the trigger. Hit me right in the arm at close range. I was fine and it didn't really even hurt. It's only an air-soft gun, but I was MAD, and pretty much flew off the handle. Well, Dad stepped in and calmly told him that the gun would be taken away because he had not been following the rules. Logan could not stop crying and I was a little annoyed. Later on when I went in his room after he went to bed to say goodnight, he was still crying and I figured he was mad about having the gun taken away. I gave him a kiss and he says to me, "Mommy, I'm so sad that I shot you in the arm and I'm really sorry. I didn't know that there was a BB in there and I really didn't mean to shoot you and I'm so, so sorry. I don't want you to be mad at me. I'll try harder to follow the rules." My heart melted...That's my Bubba.

Coming soon...As soon as I can pin him down for a photo anyway, the next in line for a post on my blog: Jordan.

My Buddy

2009-01-15T09:48:00.000-08:00

I love this little girl.

Dear Jenna -

Please, please, please, always be my little girl. You're just going to keep growing up and before I turn around, you'll be 10, and then you'll be 15, and it is my hope and prayer that we can always be friends; and that you'll feel comfortable to share ANYTHING with me no matter what.

There's some ugly stuff out in our world. I can't keep you from it but I can teach you what goodness is and where to find it and your daddy and I will provide a safe, comfortable, place for you to fall.

It is my hope and prayer that you will always search for what is good and keep the light that shines so bright from within you.

Love,

Mom

Birthday Tribute

2009-01-11T13:20:00.000-08:00

You know that one friend who has always been there, and no matter how much time you spend apart from them, you always pick right back up from where you were, and things are so comfortable and you feel like you can totally be yourself no matter what? Kristin has always been that one for me. Throughout the years we've been close in miles and far in miles but no matter what or no matter where it's always nice to know that I can pick up the phone and call her. So I just want to take this chance to shout out and let her know how much I appreciate her. Thanks, Kristin, for always being my friend no matter what.

My bestest turned 37 today and I wanted to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY my friend!!

Just a few things I love about Kristin:

-- She's not afraid of ANYTHING
-- Her personality is contagious, people can't help but love her
-- She's an awesome mom of FIVE
-- She's got a great sense of humor
-- She's so smart and talented and knows how to do so many things.
-- If she doesn't know how to do something she can usually figure it out.
-- She always finds something beautiful about EVERYBODY.

Us this past Thanksgiving 2008 in Thatcher

(Don't hate me, Kristin, for all of the embarrassing pictures! Just had to...)

Senior Prom 1990 (we did have dates, BTW...LOL)

Kristin blogs too and you should check out her awesome beautiful family if you haven't already.

http://theclaridges.blogspot.com

Ballerina Girl

2009-01-07T22:11:00.000-08:00

We've been promising Jenna for a while now that she could take ballet. Finally we can make good on that promise and today was her first class. She could hardly sleep last night from the excitement. I think I was just as excited as she was. We found a great studio and it was seriously very impressive how "Miss Janelle" was able to contain a group of 3 - 5 year olds and teach them ballet.

Practicing her moves...

Jenna had a smile on her face the entire time. She looks so cute with her leotard, tights, slippers, and hair in a bun. What a joy to see your children smile and be excited about things. We've been very much entertained by her dancing and ability to interpret music through dance. (Thank you, Barbie, and your "Twelve Dancing Princesses" movie!)

By the way...the quality of some of these pictures is not great. I was taking photos through a window.

McDonald's lunch after class.

The BIG question mark

2009-01-03T18:41:00.000-08:00

Editors note: I created this post a while before Christmas and failed to publish. Just had to share now. I'm happy to report that Santa DID find us and that it must be OK if you only did a few bad things during the year.

The whole Santa issue is just NOT making sense in Logan's little technical world. He's TRYING to believe and I think he's afraid of not believing. I think the Polar Express is really getting to him. I feel so guilty lying all the time. Jenna is present when Logan is asking all of these questions so now she's doubting a little.

Logan: So Mom? Is there a Santa Claus in every town?

Me: Ummm, no, there's only one Santa Claus for the whole world.

L: But....How does that work?

W: Santa's magic, I don't know how he does it.

L: Is there a head elf?

L: Is Rudolph real?

L (to David, helping wrap gifts): Why did you put "from Santa" on that present to Mom?

L: Do you think its OK if I only did a couple of bad things?

Jenna: Do you think Santa knows what a Leapster 2 is and where to buy it? He can't make EVERYTHING in his toy shop can he?

Me: Ummm...Maybe Santa has an account at ToysRUs or Walmart and he orders it from them or something.

J: Santa is scary.

Note from Wendy: I have to agree here - did you SEE the picture at top with the Yuba City Mall Santa - yep, a little creepy)

J: There's only two people in the whole world who are magic...Santa and Jesus.

A New Favorite

2009-01-03T13:19:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things to do is COOK. Especially when I have some time on my hands and aside from sleeping in and organizing (blah!) I have some time on my hands. So, this hobby doesn't really help with that New Year's Resolution that's on the top of my list every year but hey, it's quality time with my kids. (I'll keep telling myself that)

Jenna comes to me and asks, with a flutter of her eyelashes, "Mom, can we make cookies?" Cookies sound good. I'll start the diet tomorrow.

We decided to try a new recipe.

NO ROLL SUGAR COOKIES

These beauties are SIMPLY delicious. Seriously, you have to try them.

1 Cup Butter (no substitutions please!)

1 Cup Sugar

1 Egg

1 t. Vanilla Extract

1/2 t. Almond Extract

2 1/3 C. Flour

1/2 t. Baking Soda

Some colored sugar sprinkles

(see what I mean? simple)

Cream butter and sugar. Add egg, vanilla, and almond. Then add the flour and baking soda. Scoop onto ungreased baking sheet and flatten with a glass dipped in the colored sugar. Bake at 375 for 9-11 minutes. Then eat.

p.s. a single batch made about 2 dozen cookies which lasted about 5 minutes. I was lucky to get a picture of the last 5 cookies. You may need to double, depending on your appetite.

BTW...Are these the cutest aprons you ever did saw? I have the best Mom ever. She made me and Jenna two sets for Christmas. (Don't mind me in my ugliness. I usually don't do my hair or makeup when I'm home with time on my hands. I don't have anywhere to go and nobody comes to me so why bother?) One set says "Mommy" and "Mommy's Helper", the other set says "Wendy" and "Jenna"

This is us cooking dinner on New Year's Eve.

Nobody ever said clothes were required to bake cookies.

I like it hot!

2009-01-02T22:15:00.000-08:00

Hey everybody - Hope you're all having a super 2009 so far. I've been sleeping in and organizing some very neglected cupboards and storage spaces. Fun, huh?

I've also been making this....

I handed out chips and salsa as my neighborhood/visiting and home teachee goody plates for Christmas and have had several requests for MORE.

Here's my famous salsa recipe for those who care to know. In the words of Jackson, one of my 9 favorite nephews: "Aunt Wendy makes the BEST salsa ever!" (love him!!)

1 bunch of fresh cilantro (or less if you're not such a fan)

1/2 of a yellow onion

1 Fresh anaheim chile pepper

3 Fresh jalapenos

1 can S&W Canned Mexican Stewed Tomatoes

2 cans Petite Diced Tomatoes

1 Can Rotel (with green chiles or habaneros, however hot you like it)

Chile Powder

Granulated or Powdered Garlic

Cumin

Oregano (ground or flakes, whatever you have)

Lawry's Seasoned Salt

Black Pepper

Finely chop the cilantro, onions and fresh peppers in a food processor or blender. Remove the seeds and veins of the peppers if you like the salsa a little more mild. (At our house we leave em in. Oh yeah, baby!) If you like a chunkier salsa, don't chop it so fine. Blend the stewed tomatoes. If you like to see tomato pieces just add the other cans of tomatoes. If you like it more smooth, blend em up.

Add the spices to taste. That's the thing about salsa. Everybody likes it their own way. Experiment!

Eat it with some baked tortilla chips and you have the perfect Low-Fat Healthy snack for that New Year's Resolution that's on the top of all of our lists!

The Aftermath

2008-12-26T19:15:00.000-08:00

Twas the Night Before Christmas...

Check out my lovely front room before Santa and I went to bed (except ignore the big ugly picture windows...I really need some window treatments....Mom? Can you hear me?)

Oh, no...Look a tornado came through the next morning. (The tree even fell over, but that's a whole different story...)

I think I'll go back to bed...

We had a good Christmas 2008 and the kids had so much fun. I love to see the sparkle in their eyes and I get just as excited to wake up on Christmas morning as they do.

We are grateful that David has a steady secure job in these terrible economic times and pray for those who are less fortunate. We are also trying to focus on the blessings and gifts of the Savior and remember what the spirit of Christmas is truly about. We had all of the kids home except Kayla :( who we really really missed. Erica got leave and drove the three day trip to be home for Christmas before she ships out to Iraq next week. It's sure nice to gather your loved ones and laugh and be warm.

I miss all of you AZ people and think I cried all afternoon after I spoke to Mom but I'm grateful for loving In-Laws who we spent most of the afternoon with.

I hope that Santa found you all!! (I think I'm gonna need a shovel to dig my way out)

My Elves

2008-12-12T17:49:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

THANKFUL

2008-12-03T10:57:00.000-08:00

I love Thatcher. It's just a special place to be from and to visit. We had Thanksgiving at GG and Grumpy's (AKA Gramma and Grampa Allen) house and had yummy pit-roasted turkey and ham and all of the trimmings. AHHH...I'm getting hungry thinking about it.

Erica drove over from her base in Texas and it was great to spend some time with her before she deploys to Iraq in January.

After lunch, we had a fun rocket shoot in the rain.

Logan and Jenna love playing with the cousins. We missed Nana but we're glad Cami got to have her. Congrats Cami on the new ADORABLE little Ethan!

A few things I'm Thankful for:

-- David, Josh, Erica, Kayla, Hannah, Jordan, Logan, and Jenna

-- Mom, Dad, Scotty, Cami, Missy, JR, and Becky (and all of the spouses and kids that come with them!)

-- David's Mom and Dad, Brian, and Kevin

-- The Greatest Grandparents Ever -- GG, Grumpy, and Grampa Howard and many aunts, uncles, and cousins

-- Good friends

-- A safe, comfortable home

-- The Gospel, and my membership in the only true church on the earth

-- SO MANY OTHERS

The Happiest Place on Earth

2008-12-03T10:16:00.000-08:00

What a fabulous time we had to Disneyland! Aunt Trish (luv ya!) went with us the first day and it was kinda busy but not bad. We got to go on pretty much all of the rides. The second day was WAY TOO BUSY and tempers ran short but overall we had a great time.

Jenna's favorite was Space Mountain. After every ride she had some exclamation, like "That was so sweet!" or "That was totally awesome." It was so funny. We even took her on the Tower of Terror in California Adventure and if you've been on it you know what a scary ride it is. If you haven't been on it, trust me, it's scary. Free-falling in a haunted elevator shaft is not for the faint-hearted (or my husband). I tried to watch her through the ride (when I wasn't screaming) and she had the most serious look on her face. When it was over I looked at her and she says to me, "Mom, that was terrifying!" and she told Trish that "my bum came off the seat." What a funny girl.

Logan had a great time, too. He loved it in his own quiet way. After every ride he kept saying, "I want to go again." His favorite was Indiana Jones which we only got to go on once because the lines were so long.

My favorite ride is "Soaring over California". Very relaxing. David's favorite is Space Mountain.

Mom and Dad had fun watching the kids have fun and not so much fun stressing out about how much moola we were dropping into the place. The Disneyland Hotel was nice but I didn't think the room was THAT great (although it was convenient to the park).

Riding Space Mountain tomorrow!!

2008-11-22T20:41:00.000-08:00

I feel so blessed! David has lately been working many many overtime hours to save for Christmas and a few weeks he ago told me that he had also been setting aside some money for a Disneyland trip on our way to Thatcher for Thanksgiving. David, Logan, Jenna, and I, and Aunt Trish get to go to Disneyland tomorrow and Monday!! It's always been my favorite place to visit. And we even get to stay in the Disneyland Hotel. So excited!! We haven't told Logan and Jenna - we're going to surprise them tomorrow when we pull into the parking lot. (Except Nana told Logan on the phone the other day to have fun at Disneyland and he was really confused...)

Trick-or-Treating Bangor Style!

2008-11-02T22:12:00.000-08:00

If you've been to Bangor, you know that trick-or-treating is not what any child that lives in suburbia would know it to be.

We put our country kids on a hay ride with all of their other country friends and take them to the fire station, the feed store, the corner market, and a few houses along the way that have prepared big nice treat bags for them. The kids had a BLAST!! (And got WAY more candy than they needed -- I swear Logan's bag weighed 10 pounds!)

Logan as the Incredible Hulk

Jenna as a pink poodle named FiFi

Our Little Star

2008-10-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

Jenna absolutely LOVES singing. In primary she's always the most enthusiastic singer but she's also always been painfully shy. Well...put a microphone in her face and the shyness slips away, apparently. Our ward primary had their sacrament meeting presentation last month and the primary chorister approached a me couple of weeks before and asked if she thought Jenna would like to sing a solo. I turned to Jenna and asked her and she said "Do I get to use the microphone?" It was so cute in a had to be there sort of way. She did it and made the whole entire congregation tear up. (Especially her Mama). They recorded it on a little microcassette recorder and through the miracle of technology I am able to offer it here:

Follow this link and click on the file to listen. Hope this works...

Enjoy!
http://www.archive.org/details/JennasSacramentMeetingSolo

Lucky Number Seven

2008-10-19T15:43:00.000-07:00

My 1st born is 7??!!?? How did that happen?

Logan has the greatest personality and just brings so much

fun to our family. We had a rip-roaring time at Chuck E. Cheese's to celebrate.

The only thing missing was family :(

These are the times when we miss everybody the most.

These are the three co-birthday buddies, Logan, Morgan, and Conner. These kids were born the same day, same hospital and us moms found out when we started walking together last year. What a coincidence to have three kids from a little place like Bangor born on the same day and ending up in the same school class. Kinda fun!

This is the next day at Shakey's Pizza for the joint BDay party. Their schoolteacher was there and many other friends.

About Mom survey

2008-09-29T17:47:00.000-07:00

I got this off of Becky's blog. I thought it was cute. I was curious what my kids would say about me....

1. What is something mom always says to you?
Jenna: "I'm Pretty" Logan: "I don't know"

2. What makes mom happy?
Jenna: "That I'm so cute" Logan: "I don't know"

3. What makes mom sad?
Jenna: "When I don't do nice things" Logan: "I don't know (with a whine)

4. How does your mom make you laugh?
J: "Do funny faces" L: "Funny things"

5. What was your mom like as a child?
J: "She had cute hair" L: "I don't know"

6. How old is your mom?
J: "16?" L: "um...35?" (pretty close!!)

7. How tall is your mom?
J: "Really tall" L: "I don't know"

8.What is her favorite thing to do?
J: "Go to church" (I'm glad she thinks that...) L: "Cook"

9.What does your mom do when you're not around?
J: "Watch TV" L: "go to town"

10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
J: "A Rockstar" L: "I don't know"

11.What is your mom really good at?
J: "Math" (teehee...) L: "Cooking"

12.What is your mom not very good at?
J: "Homework" L: "I don't know"

13.What does your mom do for her job?
J: "Homework" L: "Cooking dinner"

14.What is your mom's favorite food?
J: "Chicken alfredo" L: "Tomatoes"

15.What makes you proud of your mom?
J: "When you're here for me" L: "I don't know"

16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
J: "Minnie Mouse" L: "Sandy" (from Spongebob)

17. What do you and your mom do together?
J: "Sharing" L: "Uh...I don't know"

18. How are you and your mom the same?
J: "Same color of hair" L: shrug...

19. How are you and your mom different?
J: "You're bigger than me" L: "Girl and boy"

20. How do you know your mom loves you?
J: "because I'm your daughter!" L: "She tells me"

Logan didn't really cooperate but I think it's funny that all I do is go to town and cook. Jenna had fun thinking about these questions, I got a kick out of the way she thought about her responses. This was fun!!

New Stuff

2008-09-26T13:17:00.000-07:00

I like new stuff!

This new stuff is boring though. Just wanted to let everybody know that my e-mail address has changed. I switched out my HughesNet service to Wildblue (long story). If you live in the boonies and don't have the DSL option have to settle for expensive satellite internet. The short story is I have a new email address:

dwmcmartin@wildblue.net

I can't believe my baby's 5!!

2008-09-19T21:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jenna!

Jenna brings sunshine and happiness to our home.

But I can't figure out how to make her stop growing!!!

Almost 5 years gone

2008-09-10T22:15:00.000-07:00

I've really been missing Grandma Howard lately. Whenever Jenna's birthday rolls around I think about her more because Jenna was only a few days old when Grandma passed. I can't believe it's almost been five years.

I'm taking a creative writing course this semester and I've had to try my hand at writing poetry. I'm not very good but I wanted to share this little poem I came up. I haven't been feeling very good and I had one of Grandma's quilts wrapped around me at the time...

Grandma's Quilts

Lovingly she pieces fabric,

Each swatch chosen to match

The love in her life for whom

Her masterpiece is intended.

Gingham, floral, animal prints;

Solids, stripes...

Cotton, corduroy, flannel, denim,

Even satin;

All types considered,

For her love knows no boundaries.

And though she is no longer in our world

She keeps us warm and comforted.

First Day of School

2008-08-20T15:02:00.000-07:00

Today was Logan's first day of his second year of first grade. He's not too excited about 1st grade again but it turned out great because he's in a combined grade 1st and 2nd grade class and he got to sit right in between two of his best buddies, Damien and Jacob! His teacher this year is Mrs. Roenspie. I've observed her classroom previously for school. She's excellent!

How can you resist a smile like that? He's in the 6-year old toothless stage. Man I love this guy!

Every year on the first day of school we make the kids stand on this rock under this tree in our front yard. It's a good measure of how much they've grown from year to year!

Look who's 14!!!!

2008-08-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jordan!

I can't believe that the little boy who was only five when I came into his life is 14 and has a voice like a man! Jordan had to give up his spot in the bed next to his Dad when I came around so he and I have had our moments; but I want him to know that I love him and am proud of the nice young man he is!

Another funny

2008-08-14T21:44:00.001-07:00

I probably shouldn't blog this but I can't resist. Jenna makes me giggle EVERY day. Late at night if I'm watching TV in the front room I'll take off my bra because, well, after 15 hours of being on it's just uncomfortable. Last night I left my bra on the couch. This morning Jenna came into my bed and woke me up and said to me: "Mommy, your boobies fell off in the front room." Teehee...

THE QUESTION

2008-08-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

Being around so many pregnant people lately has caused Jenna much contemplation about where babies come from. My generic answers to her questions have just not been sufficient. I have told her that when Mommies and Daddies get married that the baby grows in Mommy's tummy. Her Dad told her that Daddies put it there. (Gee Thanks, David)

Today's discussion:

Jenna: So Mom -- How do babies grow in their Mommies and how do Daddies put the baby there?

Me: Ummm.....

Jenna: Oh I know! When mommies and daddies get married they do a dance and that's how the baby gets there.

Me: Yeah...something like that.

Happiness is...

2008-07-30T21:04:00.000-07:00

Having girl cousins to bond with.

If you need something to do, TIE DYE!

2008-07-30T20:24:00.001-07:00

Busy, busy

2008-07-30T20:02:00.000-07:00

Here's a few random pictures of the kids. We're getting in all of our favorite things here in Arizona....(hanging with the cousins, baths in Nana's tub, chowing down on Mexican food, etc....oh, and the highlight of this trip has been the blowup waterslide!)

Whenever all of the cousins are in Thatcher at once we have to be sure and get pictures of them all together. It's pretty impossible, but hey we try! This isn't a great picture but all of the kids are in at least. We had so much fun tie-dying shirts!

Having a blast in Arizona!

2008-07-29T22:15:00.001-07:00

We're having a ton of fun at Nana's with all of the cousins. I've taken many pictures but Blogger is having issues right now so stay tuned for some very cute photos. (Miss you Daddy! Love you, Honey!)

In the meantime...follow my links to Becky's and Shelley's blogs. They have some fun pics of Gila Box, our adventurous picnic to the very muddy Gila River. Logan and Jenna LOVED it but Mom was a complete nervous wreck the entire time they were in the water.

And some more...

2008-07-05T14:25:00.000-07:00

More pics from the 4th

2008-07-05T13:29:00.001-07:00

Our Fun 4th!

2008-07-05T12:26:00.000-07:00

Our day started off pretty early with a flag-raising and breakfast at the church. Then we went home and closed all of the blinds and went back to bed for a few hours. (It was lazy but it sure was nice!) Our day ended at the Biladeau's (Thanks, Deb!), swimming in their beautiful brand new pool, eating some yummy food, enjoying some great company, and setting off some fun fireworks!

Hope everybody had as much fun on the 4th as we did!

Here's some pics from the festivities (they're a little out of order, I still haven't been able to figure out blogger...sorry

Tyler

Jordan and his best bud Jordan

What a cutie!

Jenna and her "dive"

Logan making a splash

The scouts from our ward getting ready to raise the new flag

Salute

All done

Hard Lessons

2008-06-30T02:55:00.000-07:00

I can't sleep (note the time of this post). I've been suffering some insomnia for a couple weeks anyway, but today - I mean yesterday - has left me with a sick feeling.

Jordan's first game of his Little League All-Stars tournament was tonight. The tournaments are ALWAYS held on Sundays. It's always been a pickle for us, and I guess we aren't one of the good LDS families that insists on not letting him play.

Well, it was a terrible game, and Jordan's team lost. There were other LDS families that we know also in attendance. The whole night just seemed off with weird things happening and people in bad moods. I don't really know how to put it into words.

Anyway, we returned home tonight about 8:30 p.m. Our sliding glass door in the back was wide open when we came in. OK, so we just scolded Logan for leaving it open when we left. He said he didn't do it. We shook it off. A few minutes later, I ventured toward the bedroom. I keep a jewelry box on my dresser (the one Grandpa Howard made for me when I was a child). All of the drawers were askew and pulled open and some of them had been dumped out onto my bed. I wondered, (what the heck was David looking for in such a big hurry before we left?) Then I noticed that my cedar chest had been opened and rifled through. So, I automatically turned around and looked in our closet at the big gaping hole where we kept our safe. The safe was gone! The things that are most important to us were stored in that safe. We kept a manila envelope for each child with their birth certificates, social security cards, savings bonds, first teeth lost, locks of hair, hospital bracelets, blessing certificates, baptismal certificates, film negatives, ALL OF THAT STUFF! All of the things you wouldn't want to burn up in a fire. Not to mention a very large sum of cash. Thousands. David had been saving cash for a family trip, cash to buy Hannah a computer when she graduates High School, and we were keeping a large amount of David's grandma's money. (Her bank accounts were drained a couple years ago, it was a way to get around the system so that she could qualify to go to a nursing home) David also had a meticulous listing of all of his financial information, including credit card numbers of everything he carries in his wallet (in case his wallet was ever lost). Oh, and his wedding ring was in there, he doesn't wear it to work because of the risk of electric shock at his job.

I began screaming for David. "We've been robbed!" "We've been robbed!" He was outside and I couldn't get his attention fast enough. I was freaking out.

We called 911 to report and then starting looking for other missing items. Our video camera, a digital camera, (we had our good one with us at the game, thank goodness), some valuable jewelry that I had gotten from Grandma Howard a long time ago, $3 from Jordan's wallet. I was really ticked off at first, now I'm really sad...

The sheriff's deputy dusted for fingerprints but couldn't find anything. Now I have fine, black charcoal on many surfaces, it's very messy and has left behind some bad black stains.

Our homeowner's insurance may cover for the savings bonds (because we have the receipts), but not the cash, and insurance can't replace things like photo negatives and locks of baby hair.

The children are traumatized. I probably shouldn't have reacted in front of them because they are both so afraid now of the idea that a robber was in their house. Jenna was worried about the precious things of hers that she couldn't even think of that were gone. (Her favorite PJ's, her favorite shirt, her favorite toy) It was so sad, she was very scared. Logan withdrew a little bit, and also had some of the same reactions as Jenna. He noticed that one of his dresser drawers had been emptied. It upset him very much, and even if it was just clothes, it was still HIS, and somebody violated that. They both cried. We had a long talk about the things that we still have and the fact that we still have each other and that's all we really need. They are both sleeping on my bedroom floor right now.

We do have a pretty good lead that we are praying will come to fruition. A 19-year old neighbor kid received an unexpected visitor in the right time frame that seemed very suspicious to him. I guess this person has a drug problem and showed up at the neighbor's house looking for a jump because his car had stalled and he was sweaty and out of breath (that safe was heavy!), but he got his car started and he rushed away really fast. He is an acquaintance of this neighbor but not really friends, and it seemed weird to him that he would have showed up and drove away like that and that he had appeared to have been doing some strenous activity. We don't live in a neighborhood where you just show up like that. The cops got right on it, and got an address for the guy. We will see tomorrow if they were able to question him.

So here are some lessons I learned today: Keep the Sabbath Day Holy, don't tempt the dishonest by leaving your doors unlocked (no matter where you live!), a safe is not a foolproof way to keep things safe, don't keep large amounts of cash in a safe.

Cough...

2008-06-26T22:04:00.000-07:00

We seem to be burning down here in California. A series of lightning storms came through here on Saturday and sparked over 700 forest fires in Northern California. We've stayed pretty lucky so far but man, are we sure breathing a lot of smoke! Check out this satellite image of some of the smoke. Our house is directly under Lassen National Forest and to the left of Tahoe National Forest in that really smoky section. The little red marks are some of the fires. We haven't had any wind which is why the smoke is really sticking around but if we have wind it's harder to fight the fire so...can't win. The news was reporting that our air quality is much worse than LA on it's worst day. It's yucky... On top of that, if I run the swamp cooler I draw the smoke right in, so it's hot. Our eyes are burning, my hair smells like smoke, we all have headaches, and it's really hard to breathe. I'm sure wishing for the hot Thatcher air right now...

Really Random

2008-06-20T00:32:00.000-07:00

Sporting the Hummer.
Jenna's new big girl bed. It was a very big deal. Her bedspread is very cute and grown-up girl. It has cute flowers and butterflies. (Nothing like a Nana original but it's a good substitute.) We even got some butterfly lights to hang up. She loves it.
Logan and his Tee-Ball trophy.
I have no idea who this weird child is or how this picture got into my camera.

I don't really have anything fun, or clever, or even interesting to say....Just thought I'd post a few fun random photos of some of the silliness that we've been up to. We're so looking forward to visiting AZ in a few weeks. I only have pictures of Logan and Jenna. All of David's big kids seem to be spread around. We have Jordan for the whole summer while his mom is Utah. (Try entertaining an almost 14-year old stuck in the metropolis of Bangor. It's not easy, let me tell ya. He's going to scout camp next week, though, thank goodness.) Josh is in North Carolina selling security systems for the summer, Erica is of course in Virginia at AIT, and Kayla and Hannah are working at a resort hotel in Midway, Utah cleaning rooms for the summer.

That's all - have a nice day!

Getting some rest

2008-06-02T23:37:00.000-07:00

It's lovely to be able to breathe.

I'm so relieved to have finished the hardest semester of my college history so far...

I never knew having time to scrub bathrooms and mop floors would be a luxury.

I love not having to tell my children, "I'm sorry, Honey, I can't do whatever you want me to do right now. I have to do my homework."

So I've added a couple updated posts to the blog. I know people are getting tired of seeing the same post for weeks and weeks. I sure enjoy reading all of yours! I'm planning a trip to Arizona sometime this summer, just can't figure out the schedule yet. Can't wait to see everybody!

Time for Tea

2008-06-02T23:10:00.000-07:00

Only a precocious 4-year old can get her Daddy and six-year old all-boy brother to go along with a tea party. (With grape juice, of course...)
"You have to put your pinky up, Daddy!"

Logan was pretty thirsty. He had about eight cups of this grape tea.

Jenna makes us smile every day. She just loves life and makes everybody around her love it too!

She did it!!

2008-06-02T22:45:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Erica for completing Army Basic Training!

She is now officially a soldier. Her dad traveled to Fort Jackson in South Carolina to attend her graduation on May 16th. Now she is working on Advanced Individual Training at Fort Lee in Virginia. Her field of training is as a "Supply Specialist" (not exactly sure what that means...) and she will complete AIT on July 10th and then return home to California to do some recruiting for 30 days. She doesn't know yet where she will be stationed but has put her requests in. We always knew Erica was strong-willed and are glad that she has applied that personality trait to do something positive with her life.

Joy

2008-06-02T22:31:00.000-07:00

Words can't really express the feelings of joy that these two little people bring to my life. Since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to be a mom. Although motherhood may have come later in life than I had planned, I am so grateful to my Heavenly Father for trusting me with these two beautiful people. Every day I marvel at the way they enjoy life and learn new things about the world. I'm so blessed.

A Tribute to Mom

2008-05-11T10:01:00.000-07:00

My Mom

Beautiful

Unselfish

Kind

Unconditional Love

Talented

Creative

Fun

Happy

Generous

Artistic

Patient

Lovely

Gentle

These are just a few words that come to mind when I think about my mom. I am so lucky to have been brought up by such a beautiful person inside and out. I love you mom!!

For the Tooth Feree

2008-05-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

Dad: "When are you gonna start losing teeth Logan?"

Logan, two days later: "My tooth is bleeding, Mommy." 30 seconds later, out came the tooth...

Yep, Logan finally lost his first tooth. He was so cute about it. That night under his pillow we found his tooth in a little baggy with a slip of paper in it that said "For the Tooth Feree". The tooth fairy only had a $1 dollar bill or a $5 dollar bill. Naturally, he got the 5. The 1 just seemed a little chintzy....especially after the cute note. Now Logan's really excited to go to the dollar store and get five things. (The tooth next to the one he lost is loose now...I hope he doesn't expect $5 for each tooth, that could get expensive! We probably made a bad choice...)

Slacker Blogger

2008-04-30T16:07:00.000-07:00

So my blog has taken a backseat lately. Three and a half more weeks of school (woo hoo!) I sure enjoy reading everybody else's blogs though.

We've been spending some time at the ballpark lately. Logan's loving TBall and I'm loving watching him play. He's the best one on the team! (It's true, too. I'm not just saying that cuz I'm his mom.) Even though it's T-Ball he hits the ball from an overhand pitch. Very fun!

Erica is getting down to the nitty gritty at boot camp. She is set to graduate On May 16th. Her dad is going to South Carolina to attend. I'm stuck at home studying for finals and he's not really looking forward to going alone, and I really wish I was going to help support Erica, but the timing just doesn't work. She travels to Virginia after graduation to attend Advanced Individual Training for six weeks, then she'll find out where she is assigned and I guess they've told her that she will most probably be serving in Iraq or Afghanistan right away. Oh boy!

How about that temple in the Gila Valley? That's awesome! It's so cool to be around where they're building a new temple because there are so many different opportunities to be a part of it. When our temple in Sacramento was being built it was so fun to serve and they involve the primary kids, mutual age kids, and everybody! It's also really great when they have the open house because it's usually very missionary oriented and people from the community are invited to have a look inside our temples and find out what we're all about. I was really excited when mom called me to tell me.

Sorry I don't have any pictures to share right now but just want to tell everybody hi and that I love and miss you!

Some photos from our trip to Thatcher to share

2008-04-08T00:22:00.000-07:00

The cuzzins: L-R from back; Jarom, Jackson, Baby Ragan, Brandon, Rhonni. Middle; Joey, Logan, Dhanni, Lexi, Jenna. Front, Trevor, Travis, (or vice versa - not exactly sure), Jake, Elly, Laela. Aren't they the cutest kids ever?!!

The boys just chillin out - too cool to play w/the little ones.
I thought this pic of the girls was cute - Notice Elly talking on the phone - a glimpse of the future?
We're all looking at different cameras but I thought this was OK of all of us.

I still have more - but they take so long to upload! I'm tired...Will post some more pics tomorrow. Luv you all!

Things We Love About Thatcher

2008-04-07T22:15:00.000-07:00

I've been a bit behind - this is the first moment I've had to sit down and blog an entry. It was soooo nice to visit home and get away from reality for a short moment. But, alas, I had to pay for it by being behind when I returned. I think I've sort of caught up for the moment though...

Here are a few things my children and I love about Thatcher:

1. Cousins are the best playmates! Logan and Jenna go and go from sunup to sundown while they're there.

2. Eating lunch at the Eagle's Roost.

3. The Eagle's Roost ice makes the yummiest soda and snowcones.

4. Rides in the "Cat".

5. Baths in Nana's bathtub.

6. Time goes by so slow!

7. It only takes minutes or even seconds to get to someone's house or to the store or to church.

8. The weather is nice and warm - we may dry up like prunes, but it's nice to put on a pair of shorts in March.

9. Mexican food!

10. Just knowing that there are so many people around who love you just because.

Easter dress

2008-03-24T01:42:00.000-07:00

I inherited this disease from my mom. For some reason, I have to dress my kids in coordiating colors and the whole family has to be match-matchy. I got my husband a lavender tie for easter this year and coordinated the rest of the family accordingly. We got lots of attention at church today. Poor David - he didn't REALLY know what he was getting himself into when he married me.

Easter Festivities

2008-03-24T00:41:00.000-07:00

I always miss the Howard Easter Egg Hunt when I can't be there. I had a good substitute this year. My friend, Alyse, had an Easter party at her home Saturday evening. We had a big egg hunt for the kids, ate some good food, shared some good company, and ended the night with a nice bonfire. The kids had a great time. Their names: L-R from top: Morgan, Logan, Kira, Trevor, Jenna - Bryce, Connor, Aiden - Madeline, and Arika.

Morgan, Logan, Kira, and Connor are all in the same school class and Morgan, Logan, and Connor share the same exact birthday! It was pretty amazing when us moms found out we were all in the hospital the same day!

Tagged again - this time by Steph

2008-03-19T20:54:00.000-07:00

HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR SPOUSE?
At a Church Singles Dance - in Fairfield, CA. We were both there after being coaxed by friends. We found out that his Ex-In-Laws were in my ward. I was in the primary presidency with his Ex-wife's sister-in-law. She gave him a really good review at church the next day. I figured if the ex's still liked him it must be OK to go out with him.

WHERE DID YOU GO ON YOUR FIRST DATE?
We went out to eat at TGIFriday's. Then we saw the movie The Green Mile.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN TOGETHER?
Eight years as of January. Our anniversary is this week! Where did the time go?

WHO EATS MORE?
In one sitting - he can definitely put away more than me and does. I probably eat more throughout the day, though...

WHO SAID I LOVE YOU FIRST?
We can't remember - but David said it definitely wasn't me but he can't remember if he said it or not. How sad that we don't remember the first "I Love You". Everything was so fast!!

WHO IS TALLER?
David, but not by much. If I wear heels to church I have to bend my knees to be shorter than him.

WHO SINGS BETTER?
I know music so he would say that I do but he has a really nice voice.

WHO IS SMARTER?

I guess it depends on the definition of "smart". I have more book smarts but he's definitely smarter than me in every other way.

WHO DOES THE LAUNDRY?
That would be me. Whenever I'm gone he says the magically emptying laundry basket doesn't work.

WHO DOES THE DISHES?
That would be me, too, most of the time. I REALLY miss the days when we had all of the kids living at home and everybody had assigned chores and jumped up to do them after dinner. That doesn't happen anymore....

WHO SLEEPS ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE BED?
David - when we were married he had just had surgery on his right shoulder. I started sleeping on the left side so he could hold me with his good arm.

WHO PAYS THE BILLS?

David - we'd be in trouble if I was in charge of that.

WHO MOWS THE LAWN?
Not me - I don't even know how to start the mower. It's a ride-on - I'd probably wreck it.

WHO COOKS DINNER?
Me - Every once in a while I fix Hamburger Helper and David's first five kids hate it because it reminds them of when he was single because it was the only thing he ever cooked. David cooks a pretty yummy breakfast though!

WHO DRIVES WHEN YOU ARE TOGETHER?
Usually David. When he's too tired he'll ask me to drive but then he hates it when I drive and I can't understand why and then we just get mad at each other because he implies that I'm a bad driver and I don't think I am. He thinks I drive too fast but he drives like a Grampa.

WHO IS MORE STUBBORN?
Definitely David - It's genetic. (He has his Mom in him)

WHO IS THE FIRST TO ADMIT WHEN THEY'RE WRONG?
We both do a pretty good job of that but I'm a little better.

WHO'S PARENTS DO YOU SEE THE MOST?
David's - they live a half mile away.

WHO KISSED WHO FIRST?
Me - I kissed him good night after our first date.

WHO PROPOSED?
David - but I knew it was coming. He proposed over breakfast on his birthday.

WHO IS MORE SENSITIVE?
Probably me - I cry over EVERYTHING. Yesterday Simon Cowell was on Oprah and gave this couple some money to help them out because their little girl had cancer. I bawled like a baby. I also cry over dumb things. I cry when I'm tired, mad, happy, sad.... I can't help it. It used to drive my Mom crazy. Now it drives my husband crazy. I think it's because they think they need to fix something but it's not. I just can't help it.

WHO HAS MORE FRIENDS?
I think it's a tie. I have my friends, he has his, and we have a lot of the same friends.

WHO HAS MORE SIBLINGS?
Me - he has two brothers. I have two brothers and three sisters.

WHO WEARS THE PANTS IN THE FAMILY?
David - He's in charge but if I really think I'm right or want something a certain way I usually get my way.

TAG YOU'RE IT IF YOU'VE HUNG IN THERE LONG ENOUGH TO READ THIS...

Tagged by Becky (but I'm not as funny!)

2008-03-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

Last book you read or are currently reading? History 101 Reader compiled by Professor Karen Nissen - Riveting! Mesopotamians, Egyptians, Hebrews....everything you ever wanted to know. Let me know if you want to borrow it.

Last person you talked to on the phone? David, on his way to a Sacramento Kings game.

Last movie you watched at the theatre? Horton Hears a Who, yesterday with the kids. Very cute and fun movie!!!

Last restaurant you ate at? Uhhh...I had a Diet Pepsi at Taco Bell today. Does that count? I don't remember a restaurant recently that didn't have a drive-thru.

Last thing you bought yourself? A Diet Pepsi at Taco Bell.

Last vacation or trip you took? Christmas - trip to Thatcher.

Last thing you ate? A homemade chocolate chip cookie. Mmmm...

Last time you cut your hair? Sometime in January. (Thanks, Kristin! See you tomorrow for another haircut!)

Last time you worked out? What is exactly meant by "working out"? If that means exercising for the purpose of exercising, I don't remember....

Last time you did laundry? This morning. Nine loads.

Last time you were on an airplane? I guess that would have been just before Christmas for Shannon's wedding.

Last person you said "I love you" to? My husband, a few minutes ago on the phone.

Last show you watched on TV? Right at the moment, I'm watching American Idol.

Last song you listened to or sang? Hannah's boyfriend played the piano for me a couple hours ago. It's an original that he wrote - he's amazing!

Last job you had or currently have? The last job where I actually received a paycheck? Up until last week I was giving Nanny (David's grandma) her baths. The state of CA paid me for that! She went into a nursing home finally which was a big relief for all.

Last place you lived (not currently living)? Fair Oaks, CA, with a dear blind lady named Cleone.

Last obsession? Right now I'm obsessed with my History 101 midterm essay - 9 pages of the purpose of religion in ancient civilization. NOT a fun or good obsession.

Last project you worked on? A plant collection for Field Biology - Oh my word...my life is boring!

Last name? What kind of question is this? Ditto Becky's response...If you don't know, get lost. Just kidding.

Last concert you went to? Ladysmith Black Mambazo, weird name, I know. They were really cool, actually - an a capella group from South Africa - a requirement for my African American Literature class.

I tag anybody who needs something to blog

How to Catch a Leprechaun

2008-03-16T18:36:00.000-07:00

Leprechauns like shiny things, especially gold! They also disobey signs.

Logan's teacher has the kids make leprechaun traps each year. Since he has the same teacher as last year, this is his second leprechaun trap! (I think it's really a competition between the dads, but whatever --- one of the kids brought in a trap with a remote control!) Logan had a great time making his trap this year with his dad. It takes a lot of thinking and creativity to figure out all the mechanics and stuff. In Logan's trap, the leprechaun reaches for a nugget of gold and when he pulls it, it's attached to a string, and he falls into a net which pulls him up.

Two Peas in a Pod

2008-02-27T23:02:00.000-08:00

There's no denying that these two guys were cut from the same fabric. David likes to keep his hair short because of the obnoxious cowlicks right in the very front that have plagued him his whole life. I've been trying to keep Logan's hair longer lately because he looks nice with it all gelled and spiked. But here's the problem - if it's not gelled and spiked he has the two exact same swirls in his hairline as his dad and he looks really funny. Nevertheless, bald is usually best for these two. Logan came to me last night and said "Mom, can Dad shave my head." I was caught in a weak moment. I had to capture their likeness on film, though. Kind of a ridiculous thing to blog, but hey, humor me.

Go Army

2008-02-25T19:01:00.000-08:00

She did it! Erica swore in today to commit her life to serving our country in the army for the next four years. She will be in South Carolina for the next few weeks in basic training. Pray for her! We are proud of the decision that she's made to do something productive with her life. I'm sure that she would appreciate letters of encouragement so as soon as we get her address I'll post it. She won't be able to access the internet while she's in basic so we have to go back to good ol' snail mail.

Princess Wishes

2008-02-17T16:24:00.000-08:00

At the last minute I decided to take the kids to see Disney On Ice at Arco Arena in Sacramento on Saturday. David was working and Jordan was on a scout camping trip so me and Hannah, Jenna, and Logan went. I had never seen a Disney on Ice production before. It was so fun!! We had awesome seats. We sat in a box with nobody in front of us so the kids were able to see really well. We got to see Ariel, Snow White, Belle, Jasmine, Mulan, Aurora, and Cinderella. They even had a fire-breathing dragon and fireworks and lots of other special effects. (Princesses aren't really Logan's thing but he secretly loved it - I caught him doing skating moves in the kitchen later that night!) Here's a few pics.

Happy Birthday David!

2008-02-04T23:22:00.001-08:00

We had a fun little family party tonight for David. We missed Hannah and Erica though. :( You should hear Jenna sing the Happy Birthday song. She LOVES birthdays, even if it's not hers. Poor David had to make his own birthday dinner, because he was a Chico State widower until about 7:00 tonight, but it was really yummy!! Lasagna, from scratch even. Mmmm....

Joshua's new girlfriend!!!

2008-02-02T23:06:00.000-08:00

We went to see Josh at his new bachelor pad in Chico tonight. They have a pretty cute little place. Here's a picture of him and his new girlfriend....Bubbles the Chinchilla :)

Anybody ever heard of TWIRP?

2008-02-02T22:33:00.000-08:00

I know a few twirps but I never heard of it being referred to as a formal dance before I lived here. At Gridley High that's what they call what we know as the "Girl's Dance". Hannah asked her "boyfriend" (she thinks that because she's 16 now she can call him that!) What a cute couple!!

Hannah and Alexander The whole group...

Another cute picture, just so you can see the whole dress...

Another cute picture...
Kayla's not in high school anymore but I think Hannah needed help paying for the limo. So Kayla and her friend David went with them.
Ah...Dad's are the best!
Cute girls...Hannah and Heidi

The Calm Before the Storm

2008-01-27T20:45:00.000-08:00

I was just enjoying a quiet Sunday evening and called my mama to check in. She told me I needed to post a new blog. I really don't have anything exciting to say...

It's been a good break but Spring 2008 semester starts tomorrow... I'm REALLY not looking forward to it. 16 units at Chico State await. That's right...the Mormon girl from Thatcher, AZ with seven children going to the biggest party school in California. (I'm an oddity there...) This should be the worst semester yet, though, so I'm glad to be getting it over with.

The Case of the Missing CTR Ring

2008-01-20T19:30:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday Jenna's new primary teacher for the year gave her a CTR ring because she's now in the CTR 5 class. It was very exciting!! I had choir practice that day after church and the kids were just hanging out in the church waiting for me to get done until we could go home. Jenna had to use the bathroom while they were waiting. She came out of the bathroom and realized her CTR ring was missing. Big brother Jordan went into the girls bathroom and helped her look all around for it. They looked in the stall, at the sink, in the garbage and it was nowhere to be found. They came to the conclusion that she must have flushed it down the toilet. It was very sad.... When we got home and were getting out of the car Jenna says to me "Mommy, something is poking me in my butt." OK...I was in a hurry as usual and didn't think about it. We were cleaning out the car and the funniest look came across her face and then she started laughing hysterically and I was really wondering what in the heck was going on. When Jenna could compose herself she reached inside her tights and said "Mommy, I know where my CTR ring is. It's in my butt!!" Then she pulled her CTR ring out of her panties. Oh man, I haven't laughed that hard in a long time... Jenna always keeps us smiling with the funny things she says.

My Blog

2008-01-17T22:50:00.000-08:00

Welcome one and all to my blog! Love, Wendy