A DAY IN A STRANGE LIFE

Lily's Walking

2011-07-30T05:33:00.001-07:00

Easter Sunday

2011-04-26T16:09:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning I was able to take the kids out and take pictures. I think they all look so cute. It started out as a crazy morning with out them having clean church clothes because they put them away dirty. Spencer did a small load and everyone was able to have clean clothes.
Lily was so cute with the eggs she had fun scooting around and finding them. She pulled over the empty the water jugs to get them. I love watching her personality grow and change.

Easter is a time of reflection and learning about our Savior. I really enjoyed the sharing time lesson on Easter that taught us that we use eggs to symbolize the Savior being resurrected a new birth. I am enjoying being in primary and learning the simple truths of the gospel. I know that Jesus is our Savior and that he was resurrected and through him we can all be resurrected and live with our Heavenly Father and Savior again some day.

Navy Ships

2011-04-19T22:48:00.000-07:00

One of the days during spring break we drove out to the Navy ships. They have two ships you can explore. They have tanks with guns inside that you can climb around in and pretend to use the guns. The kids love running around with the toys and playing. They also have a museum that you can walk thru they had all sorts of fish and other marine life that is around. They also had dr fish. They are fish that eat the dead skin off of your hands and feet. Christina was scared at first until we did it together and then she loved it.

The boys made sure to tell us how unsafe it was putting Lily on top of the tank.

Dr. Fish

Dance Recital

2011-04-19T19:44:00.000-07:00

Christina pushing Lily to the dance recital.

Getting ready to get started.

Lily hanging out in the stroller.

The 4 and 5 year old dance.

Christina and Alaura were partners.

Miss Jayme is awesome.

This is Christina's third dance recital but the first one that was able to really enjoy and get some good pic. from. Normally the whole family goes and I feel like I'm all over the place trying to keep everyone in line. Tonight however everyone had someplace else to be so the girls and I went. Lily was awesome and played in her stroller the whole recital. I took a ton of pic for Jayme and me.
Christina has learned so much in dance class and loves being able to preform with her friends. Miss Jayme the dance teacher lives across the hall and Christina and her girls play together all the time. They some times act like sister they are together so much. I wouldn't have it any other way. It makes me happy to have such great friends.

Christina Birthday

2011-04-06T09:51:00.000-07:00

For Christina's and my birthday we had a bbq with friends, but ate in the house because it's still a little cold for some of us to be out for long. (Lily and other babies) We were able to fit most of the kids up to the table. Then we had a pijanita inside everyone got to take a turn pulling a string hanging from the bottom and see if it opened up. Then came presents and cake and ice cream. Christina got lots of great gifts and loves playing with them all. I'm glade that we were able to have a great time hanging out with friends. They make all difference here in Korea and were every you go in the world.

Lily

2011-04-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

Lily doesn't want to crawl on her knees so she scoots around on her butt. She is so fun to watch grow and learn.

Poems

2010-12-29T15:59:00.001-08:00

Dillon and Kray had to write poems for their Faith in God requirement to earn their religious built loop.

Dillon’s
He is are helper
Jesus is are creator
He is are leader

Kray’s
Jesus our creator
a great leader too
May he help all people,
Guide all people, love all people too.

Halloween dresses and trick or treat bags

2010-11-02T17:54:00.000-07:00

My friend Lisa and I made 9 trick or treat bags with all 8 of our kids running around. I also made Halloween pillow case dresses for Christina and Lily. I have a great time getting together with friends and doing projects.

Hiking

2010-09-28T21:11:00.000-07:00

We went hiking with some friends. The hike was harder then we had thought it would be.

Lisa and Seth took turns carrying Ethan but the other kids did great.

Spencer held Christina's hand or she would slip and fall.
This is coming down.

The view was wonderful. And while worth the hike.

The Koreans have workout equipment at most of there playgrounds and random areas.
The Kids love to play on them.

soccer

2010-09-27T22:23:00.000-07:00

Dillon is playing soccer on the outlaw team. They played two games on Saturday. It was fun to watch the outlaws improve as the day went on. They had lots of fun and learned to work while as a team.

Go Dillon

1,2,3 OUT LAWS!!

Kray wanted his own outlaw shirt

Christina playing with Samantha

Spencer and Lily

Lily 2 weeks

2010-08-10T21:28:00.000-07:00

My friend Kristen asked to take pictures of Lily she did a fantistic job I love them all.

2010-08-06T20:41:00.000-07:00

Lily was born Jume 14 at 5:57 in the morning. I was having regular contractions all day on Sunday so I decided we had better go into the hospital. My friend Kristen came over and stayed with the kids. Spencer drove me to the hospital we got there and they did an ultrasound and exam I was only 1cm but 40 weeks so they let us stay. The gave us our room and gave me an iv. Spencer hooked up our apple tv which was a gift for being the most pregnant I have ever been. We told them that I have group B strep we tried to get them to understand but no luck. ( I was at a korean hospital.) We figured we'd try again once I was in more active labor. This was about 11pm Sunday night. We said goodnight and tried to sleep on the futon together because the hospital bed sucked. About 3 I woke up with regular contractions after dealing with them for awhile I woke Spencer up and had him go and get our stuff out of the van. Then he coached me throw the contractions. After the second one came two minutes apart we called the nurse and went to the laboring room about 5:30 am. She asked if I could walk and I said yes. We got most of the way there when I had to stop for a contraction. Then they brought a wheel chair that sat in and was wheeled the rest of the way. YOU are suppose to change into different shoes but we didn't stop and do that we got to the labor room where I climbed onto the table to be checked Spencer said I was going to be 5 cm I said if that was the case then I wanted drugs. I was 10 cm so off the table back into the wheel chair I went to go to the birthing room YES they have 3 different ROOMS. As we were going my water broke it sounded like a ballon popping and then there was water everywhere. Then we made it and I had to climb into a chair. After a couple of pushes Lily was born. I thought for sure they were going to drop her because of how they were holding her. Then they cleaned her and gave me my baby. I had torn a little and wanted to be numbed when they stitched me up but the doctor pretended she couldn't understand me. I say pretend because she was the doctor when I came in and could communicate just fine. Lily weighed in at 8 lbs 4oz 20 1/2 inches long. She is our biggest baby by 1 oz. Afterwards we went back to our room. I was able to keep Lily with me the whole time which was nice Koreans keep their babies in the nursery. Spencer went home and went with Joe and Christina to Joe's fathers day celebration. I was able to come home the next day and we took Lily to the boys classes. They loved being able to show off their new little sister. Spencer got 10 days of leave and he did a great job taking care of us. I'm grateful that everything went smoothly but I don't think I want to have a baby in a Korean hospital again. I want to be understood when I ask for something. I was very worried about the group b strep and wished I had gotten the medicine for it but they didn't know what it was. During my pregnancy they did some weird test as well. They did a test x-ray and pocked my ear to see how I bled. We were going to wait to find out what we were having but the x-ray tech told me at 36 weeks. I was so sad that I had made it so long with out finding out but very excited to be having a baby girl.

Lily is almost two months. The kids love her to pieces and our big helpers. I have loved having a baby in summer and being able to sleep in. Dillon is great about helping out. He makes breakfast and the boys do most of the cleaning. I go behind them a little to make it mom clean but it has saved me a lot of time. Lily is grumpy in the evenings and I think she has colic but is pretty good during the day probably because I carry her in the wrap I made because we seem to be on the go a lot with the older children. She will take a bottle if I pump which has been nice so I can go to the free movies with a friend and leave her with Spencer. She has started sleeping for 5 hours at night. I love the sleep.

I'm grateful that Heavenly Father has blessed me with a wonderful husband and five fantastic children. They make me happy each and every day even if I feel the need to eat a bowl of ice cream and relax every night after they go to bed.

2010-08-06T20:05:00.000-07:00

2010-08-06T19:01:00.000-07:00

We went to the Gwacheon National Science Museum yesterday with the Wege's and Jeanette and her kids. We decided to ride public transportation because the Wege's van is broke. We left about 10:30 in the morning. After riding the bus to the train depot we bought our tickets. We were spread out throughout the train but decided that since 8 of out 14 tickets were in car 8 we would go in that car and stay together. All of our seats were taking after talking with the people in the train we found out we had got on the wrong train but we lucked out that it was going were we wanted and then they showed us that we were sold tickets to the wrong place. We ended up getting off sooner anyways because Spencer found us a closer stop. After getting off the train we decided to have lunch. It was a Korean hamburger joint. Jeanette had to order twice and they still messed up her order. I think we got what Spencer ordered with a extra drink. I think Seth got what he ordered for his family. Christina wanted to cheese sticks so Spencer bought her some but she didn't want cooked one so Dillon and Maddy eat them Dillon liked them so much so he bought another order of them. After that onto the subway we went. We waited for our train to come got on and realized that everyone was getting off. We weren't able to make it off before the door shut so we were on an empty train with two other Koreans. The kids thought it was great because they could spread out and lay down on the benches. We had a good laugh because the cleaning ladies came through twice an still missed a hugh watermelon rind. Then the drivers changed. And we backed up to the stop that we had gotten on going in opposite direction. So off the train we got and up the stairs and over to the other platform and back down to wait. Finally our subway came loaded with people and we climbed on board. Everyone was nice and I was giving a seat by a young lady because I had a baby. Christina after a little while wanted to sit and look out the window so her and I traded places. There was an older man sitting beside her. He told one of the other Koreans that she was a beautiful little girl who looked like an angel. Then he asked why we were in Korea I told him that all of our husbands were in the Army and he thanked us for keeping him, his family and country safe. It made feel good to be here helping to protect these sweet children of our Heavenly Fathers. I know that he has great love for his Korean children and they are one of the most caring people that I know. Every train or subway that we got on we were given seats because of the babies we were caring or they would let the kids seat down. Finally our stop came and we walked out of the subway and there was the museum. The first room we went into was the kids exhibit. They had a piano that you could dance on. They kids thought that was lots of fun, they had a tree you could call through, water with wood slots you could put in to change the flow of the water. Next we went to the Earth Science area we there was a lighting show trains which the boys loved an air game. A hurricane and a tornado ride the older kids in the group wanted to do one of them we were disappointed when we found out that you had to tickets when you came in so they weren't able to do it. Maybe next time. Then we went up to the prehistoric era. The dino bones and fossils were exciting. They had a jeep you could sit in and take a tour. The giant sloth was my favorite. Then we saw marine life of Korea the Wege boys Matthew, Dillon and Ethan really enjoyed looking at them. Afterwards we started the journey home. We bought some hot custard doughnuts which were my favorite since coming to Korea. On the subway home we were packed like sardines for the first half and then at Suewon lots of people got out and the rest of the ride home wasn't to bad. I do remember why I love to drive and not mess with public transit. But it was a fun day and I'm glad I was able to remember why its so important that we are stationed in Korea helping to protect this great nation. Lily did fantastic the whole adventure probably because either Spencer or I were carrying her the whole day. We brought three of my wraps and could have used a 4th. I'm grateful for friends who were willing to join us on our adventure through out Korea and hope to find some other cool places to go again soon.

Kray's Baptism

2010-04-25T05:18:00.001-07:00

Kray was able to get baptized on his birthday. It was a wonderful experience. Everyone in the family was able to be a part of it Joseph and Christina said the prayers. Dillon and I gave a talk and Spencer did everything else from conducting to doing the ordinances. It's a wonderful feeling to see your children choosing to be baptized and then I can't help but think of how the time flies. It seems just yesterday that I was bring Kray home from the hospital and here he is joining Heavenly Fathers Church. Kray is my little sweet heart. He loves to be close to people and is always going and giving people hugs and wanting to be near them. I am proud to be his mom and love him more and more each day.

piano lessons

2010-01-23T23:15:00.001-08:00

We started piano lessons on Tuesday. Our teacher assigned each of us a song. Dillon is learning Scripture Power, Kray is learning Book of Mormon Stories, Joe is learning the keys and I am learning a waltz. I can't till Tuesday when we do our next set of lessons and hear how everyone is doing.

Family Day at MPRC

2010-01-17T20:40:00.000-08:00

We decided to attend family day this year. We got up at 6:15 had breakfast got dressed took LuLu out. I got Christina up and dressed her and then we walked to the bus. We arrived shortly after 7:00 for the bus to leave at 7:30. It ended up leaving closer to 8:00. The bus ride was o.k., I was a little sick but the kids did great. They enjoyed there snacks and games. We stopped at a rest area. Everyone but Dillon got off to use the rest room. Kray and Joe were not happy I told them they had to stay with me and use the women's rest room. It was squatty potty and they had no tissue. Kray didn't go and then cried for the remainder of the trip because he need to go. And then he got car sick and throw up. We made it and Kray was able to get off the bus and Spencer took him to the restroom. Poor little guy. We finally made it off the bus and into the mess hall. We looked around at what food they had. Then we went outside to play in the snow. Kray saw some friends so he went and played with them. When we got cold we went in and ate. Then we caught a bus to watch a live fire from the Apache. After being up there in the cold for about 30 min and me worrying that someone was going to fall, Spencer got a call to say that he had to go fly. I was not happy. The kids were saying it was cold and boring so we went back down to the buses. They kids played in the snow down by the buses while we waited for the drivers to come. Dillon had left his gloves on the bus we rode up on. One of the other buses was open so we got on it and when the driver came from the one we rode up on Dillon went and got his gloves. Joe was sure that he had left his gloves too and was very upset that we couldn't find them. I told him that we would go back to the mess hall and eat all the junk food we could find and that we would look for his gloves. This made him happy and his gloves were there with all of our other stuff. The kids played while we waited for another 2 1/2 hours to leave. They did a promotion ceremony while we waited. Finally at 4 we got on the bus for the trip home. Kray, Christina and I feel asleep. When they stopped at a rest area I asked Dillon and Joe if they need to use the restroom. They said no. When the last person got back from the rest room. Kray woke up and decided that he needed to use the bathroom so the bus had to wait for us to go. We made it back at 7:30 and opened the door to the fact that LuLu had pooped in her crate. Dillon and I cleaned it up. I am grateful for all his help. Ate cold cereal and went to bed.

The trip was horrible. Seeing Spencer was priceless.

Ultra Sound

2009-11-19T15:57:00.000-08:00

I showed Joe my ultrasound pic. and asked him if I was having a boy or girl and he told me a boy because there was no hair in the pic. And everyone knows that girls have long hair. He is such a sweet little boy.

Falling Stars

2009-11-17T23:49:00.000-08:00

We went out side last night to watch the meteoroid show but this is all the stars we saw. We had the kids write their names with sparklers. It was fun to go and watch the sky together and take some pictures. I wish we had seen some falling stars but oh well. My friends went out at 4 am and saw the show we were trying to watch.

Joe's Birthday

2009-11-15T20:51:00.000-08:00

For Joe's Birthday he invited over a couple of friends for an ice cream cake, presents and then we took them to the movie. We watched Were the Wild Things Are. I was disappointed in the movie it didn't keep the kids attention at all especially Christina. The kids had fun hanging out together and enjoyed picking out their treats at the movie. I love being in Korea where the army plays the movies for free so you just buy the treats. Happy Birthday Joe. You are becoming a such a big kid and a great helper.

Halloween pic

2009-11-09T22:35:00.000-08:00

We forget to take pic before we left the house. Here is the pic that we were able to get out side in the dark. We did a branch Trunk or Treat and then walked back to housing to go trick or treating in housing. The kids loved seeing their friends and going to there houses. Christina was done and would go to her friends houses other wise she didn't want any more candy.

painting pumpkins

2009-11-03T19:56:00.000-08:00

We have decided that it is easer to have the kids paint pumpkins then to carve them.

Happy Anniversary

2009-11-02T18:40:00.000-08:00

Spencer and I have been married for 10 years. Its seems as though the time has flew by. And here we are in Korea with 4 beautiful children. For our anniversary we decided to buy some pottery and china. We had a great day out together and found this yummy little restaurant I am not a huge fan of Korean food but this place was awesome. It was a great day and I am glade we were able to spend it together.

Dillon's Birthday

2009-11-02T18:21:00.000-08:00

For Dillon's birthday we had a BBQ and a homemade snake pinata. The kids had a great time helping Spencer make it out of a cardboard box. We punched out green circles and glued them all over to make scales. Happy Birthday Dillon I can't believe your already 9. It seems like yesterday I was bringing you home.

Pregnant

2009-10-14T20:20:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know we are expecting a baby in June.

Christina keeps telling me I have a sister in my tummy. The boys aren't sure if we are pregnant because I am not big and showing. They are starting to believe me so Dillon has been trying to make breakfast in the mornings and keeping everyone else quiet so I can sleep.

cute kids

2009-09-13T22:51:00.000-07:00

Christina has taken to calling herself a horse. It varies from day to day what name goes along with horse if it's Gail or Princess or Butterfly. She also has the boys come up with animal names to go by form puppy, snake, dragon, or a horse too. It's fun to watch them interact and play together. I love being a mom.

Since we have been on post we walk or ride our bikes every where. It's amazing to see my boys abilities grow from day to day. When we first moved on base Kray could hardly ride his bike and know he is out there in the lead.

P.S. Christina just told me her name is puppy. LOL

2009-09-12T22:43:00.000-07:00

For Labor Day we drove out to a sea port with Navy ships that you could climb on. We went with a group of friends from church. It was lots of fun. I think the kids had more fun when we got off the boats and they got to play in an airplane, AAV7(military truck that goes in the water to carry marines) and dress up us army men and run around with toy guns. It was great to get out and spend the day with friends.

Boys First day of School

2009-09-11T22:34:00.000-07:00

Kray 2nd, Joe 1st, and Dillon 3rd. grade.

Every year we take back to school pictures but something always goes wrong and they don't turn out. This year I was in Seoul watching my friends little boy after she had her baby so I didn't get to see the boys. I think that is why the pic. turned out this year. Here's to a great school year.

Vactaion

2009-08-27T07:12:00.000-07:00

Spencer took to weeks of leave. It was great we had plans to go and see Korea. We ended up staying home and having lots of relaxing family time. We moved on post the week before his leave started so we were able to get our house put together. Our friends the Coxs also started their leave so we did hang out a lot with them. I did some sewing projects. I will post pic. later. We took the kids swimming and went to Ever land. We also taught the kids to play SkipBo. It has become our new favorite game until we went to the thrift shop and Dillon got a battle game. You battle by rolling dice. Kray was the undefeated Champ until I played with them and then I won. We are loving it on post. The kids have lots of other kids to play with and I can walk any where.

I had to go grocery shopping the other day and Spencer decided I should push the cart home. I told him he should come and pick Christina, Joe and I up since we were going to story time first and Christina always rides her bike to the library with her friend Sophia. He said no. So I told him he could come pick us up, walk over and push the cart home or I would take a taxi. He decided to push it home himself. It was fun to watch him. One of the hills we have to walk down he decided to ride the cart. I was thinking what is he teaching our kids but he had fun and the boys had fun trying to catch a ride. I love being a Mom and wife every day. My family amazes me more and more.

Bed Time Reading

2009-07-28T23:20:00.000-07:00

I told my boys they could read in bed last night. When I came in Dillon and Kray were both reading the scripture readers that we have. Dillon was reading the Book of Mormon and Kray was reading the Old Testament. Joe had on the floor a comic book that I found about the Book of Mormon. I love seeing my kids choose to read the scriptures on their own.

Org day face paintings

2009-07-23T17:30:00.000-07:00

We went to Org day with Spencer and the kids got their face's pained. Dillon didn't want to because he was watching the rc races. I think they did a great job on their faces.

No more training wheels

2009-07-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

The boys did it. Kray and Joe both through there training wheels into the garbage. Know we habe to practice practice practice. I am so proud of them both.

2009-07-15T23:37:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to the Korean Folk Village with the Turville's. It was neat to see Korean performers. I loved watching them dance. Then we walked around. Dillon choose for us to go to a Korean Mountain Village. They had squash growing on the roof of the shed.

They had body pillows and the kids had fun pretending to sleep with them. They had a tree that you could rub your back on. We all took turns climbing into the palanquin and see what it would be like to sit in one of these boxes and be carried around. Then we dressed up in traditional Korean clothes. It was very hot in all those clothes. The kids had a great time running around and we had fun hanging out with the Turvilles. I am glade that we have a family in our little branch that has kids the same ages as ours.

Bike Ride

2009-07-15T06:06:00.000-07:00

We rode our bikes from Rex Village to the hanger where Spencer works. It's just over 3 miles. You have to cross over one major road. I was nervous about this but the kids did great. Spencer rode with Kray and I rode with Dillon and Joe with Christina on behind. We made it to Spencers work in about 40 min. I was very proud of my kids. We had a great time.

California

2009-07-15T05:34:00.000-07:00

We had a great time in California and the kids keep asking to go and play with everyone again. I was scared that Christina wouldn't go to my parents or what to play with the girls because she can be so shy at times but she remembered everyone and couldn't get enough of them.

The boys had fun riding and even would get up early in the morning to go riding. They had a great time playing with their cousins. I hardly saw them except when they wanted food. I wouldn't have it any other way.

Christinas first hair cut

2009-07-07T17:55:00.000-07:00

When I was in OR. Rocki cut Christina's hair for me. It turned out really cute but I cried because her hair was so long and it was such a change. It looks really cute though and her friends have decided that they have a hair cut too. I think it's cute that they want to be like her. Thanks Rocki for doing a great job on her hair.

happy 4th of July

2009-07-07T17:23:00.000-07:00

We had a great 4th of July we spent the morning babysitting while some friends went to the Temple. When they got back we all went to a baptism. It was great seeing a new member join our little branch. Afterwards we went to Lindsey and Quinns house to watch the fire works. The view was great and we didn't have to mess with the crowds.

Oregon

2009-06-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at Oregon with Rocki and family. We went to the zoo, cheese factory, beach and the water falls. It went to a dinner theater and went swimming afterwards. We had a great time and will hopefully make it back to Oregon again. There is so much more to see and do. Thanks Nathan for letting me have your room. You guys are the best.

Flying on a C30

2009-06-16T22:45:00.000-07:00

We flew from Korea to Japan and then to Alaska. From Alaska we flew to Washington. I took these pictures on the plane from Alaska. The crew was great we got to go up in the cock pit they let the kids put on head phones and talk to the pilots.

We took a tactical take off from Alaska. It was very cool and the kids loved it.

The planes are loud and very uncomfortable, but once you are in the air you can spread out and lay on the ground, or walk around. I love hoping and will definitely be doing it again. I have found ear protection for the kid on line. Here we go America.

The Last few days

2009-06-11T00:11:00.000-07:00

I made it home from my month long vacation on last Wednesday. Saturday we were able to attend the Temple. They had a district primary activity with a nursery. It was nice to be able to go to the Temple with Spencer. Monday Joe woke up sick. Poor little guy. Tuesday he was better and back to school he went. I went to a picnic with Kray's class which was moved to his class room because it was raining a little. Wednesday was the last day of school with the kids getting out at 11:00. Today Kray woke up sick and has been lots of fun he cries really loud every time he throws up. I also think Christina is a little sick because she has been winning all day. I told her to go to bed. And she did.

Spencer was suppose to go into the field on Monday and camp all week, but they ended up staying here. Not that it does us a lot of good they are pretending to be in the field so he is working 11 to 13 hour days. He does get to spend the mornings with us. And I like having him home at night I tend to sleep a little better.

On Sunday I have to give a talk on prayer and the kids are going to sing A Child's Prayer. Know I have to teach it to them. Hopefully it comes back quickly. The problem is I am most likely teaching them the wrong tune.

Saturday we are having a District welfare meeting that I would love to attend but Spencer is most likely working. I haven't decided if I should just bring my kids and put them in a class room with their DS and a movie. We'll have to wait and see how everyone is feeling.

Alaska

2009-06-09T22:18:00.000-07:00

   Christina and I in the taxi.

   us with Sam
   Kray and Sam

We arrived in Alaska on Sunday. Spencer has always wanted to to go to Alaska so I decided that I had to go out and see something. We got a taxi and went down town. Then we walked down to the Rail road we were hoping to walk to the ocean but it was blocked. We walked around the rail road for a little while and then we headed home. Alaska was still a little brown they locals said in another month the whole place will be green. I am hoping to make it back when it is all green. We went to bed early with all the traveling and jet lag every one was pretty tired. I woke up at 10 and couldn't believe that I had slept in. Then I realized that it was 10 at night. I had only been asleep for a couple of hours. In the morning Sam told me that he had a dream that someone thought they had woke up at 10 in the morning to find out it was 10 at night. I thought that was kind of funny. ( Sam is a 14 year old boy that traveled with us from Japan and then onto Washington )

I payed a 100 for taxis for the day that I was in Alaska and they don't allow more then 5 people in a taxi.

Kadena Japan

2009-06-08T16:10:00.000-07:00

   The Coral Reef.

   Brother Atwood with all the boys.
   A brain sea cucumber???

   A sea cucumber.
   Nemo on the wall that holds back the water.
   The kids being goofy.

   Joe and Christina on the farris wheel that never stops. Dillon and Kray were in a different basket.

   Dillon climbing to the top.

   waiting at the air port.

The kids and I decided that we hop and go to California for a vacation and to have the army ship more of our stuff over here since we are command sponsored to stay in Korea. We will be here at least until Aug of 2011.

We left Korea on Wednesday and then spent four night in Japan. The first lady we meet was a Mormon but new to the area. It was great to know that where ever we went we had the church around to help us.

The first couple of days in Japan we just hung out on post. On Saturday we went to the terminal to see if we could catch a flight out we meet the Atwoods. Misty was able to get on a plane with there daughter she was going to California to take care of her sister who is battling cancer. My prayers go out to her. Brother Atwood and his boys took us around to see some of Japan on Saturday afternoon. First we went to the beach and let the kids play. The had lots of fun running around on the sand and climbing to the top of the play gym. Then we went to a shopping area that had a ferris wheel that never stops turing. You jump on as it is moving. The boys thought it was cool and want to go back to Japan to show Dad and see there friends. Then we headed over to the Okinawa Sea wall. That is the picture of Nemo and us walking on the coral reef. It was so cool and beautiful. The ocean is the East China Sea. Then we headed back on post and looked at the air museum at the planes. Then we headed over to USO for a couple more pics. Then we had desert and headed home. (aka our hotel room) It was a great day and I am glade that I got to see some of Japan and hope to be able to go back and see more.

The next day we headed out to Alaska.

Yeoido Park

2009-04-06T21:53:00.000-07:00

We went to a great park in Seoul to see the Cherry Blossom and they weren't blooming yet. It was a fun park though we walked around, played, chased birds and feed the fish and ducks.

King Sejon the great invented the traditional Korean alphabet. It has changed some of the past hundread years. He was the 4th king during the Joseon Dynasty.

Suewon Frotress

2009-04-01T16:54:00.000-07:00

the building are so cool. I can't wait to get out and see more of Korea.

Christina looking out the archery hole. She didn't want me to hold onto her .

Every where we go we have Korean's ask to take pictures of the kids. Dillon caught this lady asking to take their picture.
Joe with his walking stick.

Kray and Dawn
Joe and Robin
Spencer and Maria
All the kids lined up in front of one of the buildings.
Joe and Robin.

Here we are playing a concentration game you have to throw the arrow into the stand. Christina loved me helping her put it in. I tried a couple of times and finally got it in once.

birthday party

2009-03-25T16:10:00.001-07:00

Here are the pictures from Christina's birthday party. Christina made out like a bandit she got fabulous presents from everyone. Thanks guys you are the best. I also got great presents from all my friends.

The guys getting gassed

2009-03-22T16:17:00.000-07:00

Spencer had to get all dressed up and go to work and get gassed he thought it was lots of fun because it broke up his daily schedule and gave him something to take pictures of.

Happy Birthday

2009-03-13T17:11:00.000-07:00

My little girl turns three. I feel like I just brought her home from the hospital. Christina is so much fun to have around. She is full of smiles and loves. Her new thing is to say me three whenever she hears some one say me too. Here is a happy birthday to myself and to my little princess. I love you. making brownies
snow ball fight
eating ho ho's cookies

aquarium

2009-03-09T03:38:00.000-07:00

We went to the aquarium in Seoul. The kids had a great time running around and looking at everything.
Here we are about half way through stopping for an ice cream break. Can you see the Seal behind us?
Dillon loved that they had a stuffed gator and had to climb up and stick his head inside. The other boys wanted to but we were told to get down.
I thought this was an awesome pic that Spenc got of the bats.

We had a great time is Seoul at the aquarium and hanging out with Lindsey,Quinn and Quinnie. After the aquarium we went back to the hotel and then onto post to eat with Lindsey Quinn was gone for his Saturday meetings. Saturday night Spencer and I took the kids to watch Bed Time Stories. I thought it was great. On Sunday we rode the subway to Church. The kids were so excited that they couldn't hold still. It was a neat experience. District Conference was great and it was fun to see Katie and Clint from our ward in AL.

Goffey Girl

2009-03-02T21:22:00.000-08:00

Joe was taking a bath, Christina decided that she wanted to join him so she jumped in.
Christina giving LuLu love with her hair in rags. One day I am hoping to be faster at putting her hair in rags.

She can sleep anywhere. I took the dog potty and came in to find her like this. I couldn't get her to wake up for the life of me. I tried holding her up laying her on the dog nothing worked. I guess when you are so tired that you fall asleep on a stool that you need your sleep.

BLUE AND GOLD

2009-03-02T20:18:00.000-08:00

Christina eating desert.
Dawn Nathan's mom.
The Butlers.
Robin playing at the Blue and Gold Banquet.

I am the cub scout leader for the wolfs. Dillon earned his bobcat and Nathan earned his wolf. I am very proud of the hard work that the boys are putting into cub scouts. They come prepared and ready to work every week.

Dillon and Nathan made the flag with help from Spencer. We found the sticks for it outside. Dillon was using it as a giant sword.

2009-03-01T02:08:00.001-08:00

Seoul adventure

2009-02-10T23:07:00.000-08:00

This morning my friend Lindsey and I set off to go to the army post in Seoul it's about 1 1/2 to 2 hours from where we are. While in Maria fashion I got us totally lost we were suppose to take interstate one and I took the little one. We thought the little one was kind of like a business route and that we would be able to find our way.

We saw some fascinating buildings but we didn't have a camera. We are planing on going back to take pic. One looked like a miniature wall of China it was so cool.

After about 2 1/2 hours we decided that we were wrong and started calling people to find out where we were but no luck. We called at least 10 different people. Lindsey husband and Spencer both tried looking on the computer with out much luck. Finally Spencer went and bought a map. He was able to find out where we were and gets us going in the right directions. We still wanted to go Yongsong but somehow we ended up on interstate one the wrong way or we missed our exit.(Anything is possible) We saw a food and gas exit so we pulled off to use the rest room and turn around. I saw an American thank you and asked him how much farther we would have to go to get to Yongsong he said we were about half way but that we couldn't get on the freeway heading North I said forget it and just went home. Then I missed my exit and had to drive for 13km what is that like 20 miles out of my way and pay another toll both. We made it home safe and sound, and crazy me is going to try it again on Friday so I can prove it that I can make it.

The last week......

2009-02-03T07:07:00.000-08:00

It snowed here a lot where talking like 10 inches. Post shut down I don't know about the town. On Sunday I went out and started my truck and let it run while I cleaned it off. I turned it off and went up stairs to get the kiddos. We came down and got in when I went to start it dead as door knob. I was upset this is the third or forth time that the battery has died. The first two one of the boys Kray and then Joe left on a light. Anyways I decided it was a bad omen so we stayed home and didn't go anywhere. On Tuesday when the boys went back to school I decided it was time to go out. We where out of the basics bread, milk, and eggs. The staples of life. I got my neighbor to give us a jump. She pulled in beside us and the cables wouldn't reach. Bad omen #1. So I went and asked the other neighbor if she could move her car so we could jump it from the other side. She was more then happy too but couldn't find her keys and been looking for almost 40 min when I knocked bad omen # 2. Katie found her keys and moved her car. Lisa moved her van around to the other side and got stuck bad omen # 3. We finally got her van unstuck and my battery charged good to go. I got in and let my vehicle warm up. All of the warning lights on I do mean all of them bad omen #4. I thought maybe it's just cold so I throw the baby in revers and back up, I start to drive and my power steering is gone bad omen # 5. So I drive around the block a couple of times it doesn't get better so back to the parking spot we go. I am so upset. My husband is gone and my truck is broke. Lisa was a life saver and took me to the store with her. Spencer was suppose to come home from the field on Thursday so he could go to the dentists. I told him that he should try to come home Wednesday to fix my car. And to my surprise they let him. We had to have the truck towed one of the belts was broken. They towed it and replaced all the belts, changed the oil, changed the air filter and who knows what else. On Thursday night about 6 he calls to say its all done. I am with Leah heading to a meeting. She takes me to the atm where I get money to pay them and then takes me to pick up our truck. I am so happy to have a running vehicle. On the way to my meeting the repair man calls and says I payed him to much. I payed him in dollars and he was quoting won. I was amazed at his honesty so on Friday we went and got the change back.

Today I got to go in the Simulator with Spencer it was so cool to feel like I was flying. Spencer helped me a lot, when he let go of the controls I crashed. That's ok. We had a great time. He made the seat move it was crazy I felt like I was all over the place. I think if I was ever in a real helicopter that I would get motion sick.

Apachee

2009-01-28T02:56:00.000-08:00

Here is Spencer out at the range. He got some great photo's of the guys shooting.

snow

2009-01-23T19:17:00.000-08:00

It snowed and keeps on coming they are predicting 6 to 9 inches of snow. The kids are continuing to bug me to go out and play and then they freeze. I wish I had snow boots for everyone but it is lots of fun. We are going to find a box and slide down the handicap ramp the next time we go out to play. My camera battery was dyeing so I couldn't get many pic. and Spencer has our nice camera with him. (we voted me against him and I won) so he lost the battery charger).

Lu Lu

2009-01-23T05:20:00.000-08:00

Since Thanksgiving every time I make a list or we go any where the boys are asking for a puppy. So being the sucker that I am we went and looked at the vet that is where the strays are kept and carried for until they can be adopted. Danni being the lady in charge called and said she had the perfect dog for us. They watch them and check out the health for a few days before they can be adopted. Being the crazy mom that I am we deiced to check her and feel in with Lu Lu. She is a golden retriever poodle mix. We got her Wednesday night and the kids and I just adore her. She is house trained and plays fetch. I can pull her tail, ears and put my hand in her mouth with out any problems the only thing she dose not like is to brushed. Spencer will get to meet her when he backs.

They are great about taking her out and picking up her poop which works great for me I hate to pick up poop. Hopefully she doesn't poop while they are at school.

The vet staff decided she was a good match for us because the hair matches.

sleep over

2009-01-15T23:27:00.000-08:00

I have always thought that late nights would be better then sleep overs but I am wondering if I am wrong. Dillon got asked to sleep over at his friend house and said no because we already had some things plan but said that Nathan could sleep over at our house. I have been thinking about this a lot lately with as much as Spencer is gone out in the field it's hard to plan late night activities because I don't like dragging the kids in out of the house (I'm a little scared of the dark and hate going out at night by myself) So I am thinking that maybe sleep overs are not so bad at least I can drop off and be home before dark. What do you guys think?

making brownies

2009-01-14T15:34:00.000-08:00

Christina and I made brownies for our Battalion bake sale. She had so much fun pouring in the ingredients and licking the beaters clean afterwards. I found her apron at the thrift store for .50.

Marley and Me

2009-01-14T02:28:00.000-08:00

So I took the boys to Marley and Me on Saturday. Great movie with fantastic acting but ....... The Mom had a miscarriage she went in for her first doc appointment to be told that her baby was dead. Dillon "Mom why is her baby dead, how is the baby going to get out?" Me "UHHHH...... Sometimes that happens so the parents can grow closer to Heavenly Father, and just like when a Mommy has baby at the hospital they take care of the dead baby at the hospital" Dillon "oh ok mom" Me "what the heck are they putting that in a kids movie for. At the end Marley dies. Joe on my lap crying "why is the dog dying"? Me "Marley is an old dog"

I think everyone in the theater cried. I can deal with the dog getting old and dying, being sick and all the the miscarriage was a but much for a family movie.

New Website

2009-01-03T02:46:00.000-08:00

I made a Stampin' Up website. Check it out and let me know what you think.

maria

www.mariastrange.stampinup.net

New Year

2009-01-01T00:15:00.000-08:00

Welcome 2009. I can hardly believe that 2008 is behind us. So much has happened in the past year. Spencer graduated flight school. We moved to California (some days we wish we were still there). Dillon was baptized and Spencer got to watch via video chat. The four kids and I got stranded in San Fransico on our way to Korea. We made it to Korea tired but excited to see Spencer. He left after we had been here just a couple of days. The boys got into school and then it was Christmas break. We had a great Christmas. Christina is potty training. Doing very well I might add. Just don't let her watch Diego and we are good to go.

On to the new year and what is has to bring hopefully some peace and quiet. I am excited that the boys are in school and Christina and I go to the toddler activities. I am hoping to help out in the boys classes as much as I can. I love to be involved in there schooling just not the sole teacher. I am amazed at the awesome women who do it so well.

I hope the new year finds you full of joy and love. With all the love I have.

Maria

p.s. Sara I love you, miss you, and wish I could give you a big hug.

Peppermint Ice cream

2008-12-26T04:46:00.000-08:00

I have been craving peppermint ice cream this whole season so I decided to go on a mission to find some. Off to the commissary I go nope none there lets try the air force base nope they don't have any either. I got Baskin 31 flavors robin will have some nope. Brilliant idea I will buy a ice cream maker and make some oh wait no one sells peppermint flavoring. So if you can get your hands on a bowl of peppermint ice cream eat some for me.

P.S. Katie if they have some in Seoul let me know and I might be coming for a visit.

snow

2008-12-24T18:41:00.000-08:00

The boys have been praying for snow and here is the answer. A snow day. We had so much fun playing outside throwing snow balls and making angles.

santa

2008-12-21T17:27:00.000-08:00

We went to see Santa everyone was excited but Christina who won't go near him. She hides and says no Santa. I think it's cute that she talks about him all the time but won't go any where near him when we see him. What can you do.

Korean Market Day

2008-12-08T22:43:00.000-08:00

We went to Market day with my friend Lindsey. The boys loved looking at the whole fish. We accidently left Kray behind after I bought my oranges and started walking I was in the front I turned around to see make sure we had everyone and Kray wasn't behind us. Lindsey went back to find him and there he was looking at the fish. He had noticed that we were gone but decided to stay put as he knew we would come and get him. I am glade that he didn't try to find us. I bought a ton of fruit, a pair of work out pants and leg warmers for Christina. When Dillon was pushing the stroller a Korean women came up and was talking to Christina, they have a thing about touching the kid while the women put her hand in Christina's face and my daughter bite her. I felt bad, but had the hardest time not laughing. One of the stores we walked by the owner came out and gave us some Korean candy. My kids thought it was nasty. LOL Then we went to the bakery. We bought bread, rolls and donuts.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-28T06:00:00.000-08:00

I'm a little late in posting as Thanksgiving was yesterday. I want to express gratitude to my dear husband. I am know that I can be a little trying at times but he loves me in spite of it all. I am thankful for my wonderful children Dillon was trying to find his Nintendo DS and couldn't find it so he decided that he was going to fast and pray to find. He did find it and was able to express gratitude for a loving and helping Heavenly Father. I am awed and amazed by my children and the love that they have for our Savior and those around us.

We had a pretty relaxed Thanksgiving we stayed home and enjoyed each others company. A couple of friends came by and spent some time with us. I am grateful that my family was able to spend this time together.

We bought a real christmas tree this year I am excited to see how it turns out. We had to drive around to find a stand for it but we did. Tomorrow we are going to decorate it the kids are so excited. (So am I) I love Christmas. I am sad that we won't have extended family around to share in the holidays.

We had a ward Thanksgiving dinner with all the missionaries in our area. We had around 20 missionaries. It was wonderful to be around them and to feel of their spirt. One area sung a song for us and another area did a dance.

We got there around 12:30 thinking we were late but ended up being 30 min. early. We hurried to warm up our sweet potatoes and haul out our pies and cranberries. On the drive over Spencer turned a corner and the sweet potatoes on my lamp dumbed over. We tried to catch them but the pan was hot just out of the oven. We did manage to save half of them so we served them up. During dinner Christina dropped her plate with desert on it, I caught half of it in my hand and the other ended up on the floor. Then she spilled her drink on me. By the time dinner was over I was ready to go home and shower. It was one of the best Thanksgiving dinners I have been to in a long time. I love the sprit that the missionaries bring everywhere they go.

Tonight Spencer and I went out with the Cox's we went to the new James Bond movie. (all movies at Camp Humpreys is free) Then we went and got Spencer 5 piece suit pictures coming soon. Then we went to dinner. Thankfully Bro. Cox speaks korean and was able to order for us. When we left the restaurant the Server/Owner told us that she was Christian and was glade to see that we had prayed over the meal. I am loving Korea and the experience's it has to offer and the friendships that I am building.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving..

home sweet home

2008-11-24T16:20:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of the rice fields that are all around where I live. I love the open fields when I am surrounded by so many people.
   The Koreans have started to bail their fields at the end of the season instead of burning them. They wrap them up in white plastic. The kids have taken to calling them marshmallows and pretending to eat them. Every time I see them I think this is what all farmers should do with their hay so that it won't get wet. We have seem them wrapped up in stripped and black plastic.

   Christina wanted in on the action to. She is my little sweet heart. I just couldn't resist taking her picture when she asked.
   The nice and open field.

My Life

2008-11-13T23:43:00.000-08:00

I did it I passed my Korean driving test. It seems that all we have been doing in getting things set up I have to get physicals for the kids attend a new spouses brief, LEARN TO DRIVE, and Spencer leaves this weekend for 8-10 days. We just get here and he has to leave again.

Korea

2008-11-11T13:33:00.000-08:00

We left Bakersfield at 5:00 in the morning. We made it to LAX with time to spare. They were going to let both my parents go through security with us but my Mom didn't bring her purse

in so my Dad went with us through security, she waited for him at the check in counter. It was very hard to say good bye to my parents. I am going to miss my family so much. We made it on the plane with out any problems. I had a layover in San Francisco we made it there 15 min early. That's great I thought I only had an hour lay over I could use the extra 15 min. To bad we weren't able to land because of weather. We ended up landing 30 min. late we circled the airport for 45 min. The kids and I ran our hearts out to catch our next flight. We made it to the counter 25 min before departure but they had already shut the gates and wouldn't open them. We missed our flight. I got mad, I cried and then I decided that we weren't suppose to be on that flight for a reason. We tried to get onto a latter flight with out any luck. The airline did comp us a hotel stay and they wouldn't for the other travelers who were stuck with us. The manager said she comped mine because Spencer is military and I was flying with my children.

They put us up in the Embassy Suites. It was a really nice hotel on the bay. The weather was hazy so we didn't go out and enjoy the bay but they did have fish ponds inside and we had fun walking around. The boys wanted to go swimming but wouldn't you know it the swim trunks where 20 a pair. I said sorry I can't afford that and the boys were great and didn't throw a fit about not swimming. We ordered in pizza for dinner. Then I read in there brochure that they not only had a breakfast in the morning but a mangers reception in the evening so we decided to see what goodies they would put it. The place was packed with the mangers reception and there was a wedding reception in one of the big rooms that you can rent. We walked around and found the refreshment table pretzles and gold fish crackers. They had a open bar so we filled up our little bowls and headed back to our room for some more TV. We were all a sleep by 8:30 and ready for our flight in the morning. For breakfast they cooked omelets to order. They also had pancakes, bacon, sausage, eggs, muffins, cold cereal and tons of fruit. It was the best hotel breakfast I have ever had. The other people staying at the hotel were awesome, one lady helped me find a table and carry my plates of food over and then she went and filled up cups with apple juice for my kids. Then another lady came over to comment our our family and said I see that you finally got your girl I have a friend with 7 boys and 1 girl. She is a sweet Mormon girl I said so am I and then she got her friends and brought her over so I could meet her. it was nice to see how many wonderful people around. We each took a box of cereal and a piece of fruit for in the airport. Then we headed over to the airport 2 1/2 hours before our flight. We got our tickets and headed over to security we waited in line and when it was our turn the people behind us in line waited until we got all of our stuff up on the belt and went through it takes a while when we have to take out our Nintendo DS and my laptop. We found where we waited to board and then the boys had to use the bathroom so back up the stairs we headed. 30 min. later we were back and waiting to board our plane they ended up boarding early and then we sat on the plane and waited. On the plane they feed us 2 meals and brought around drinks and snacks. The kids did great and enjoyed watching movies and being the boss of what they ate and drank. Christina took a 4 hour nap which was great. I couldn't seem to relax enough to sleep on the plane. We landed a hour early which was great. We had to wait to taxi in because a plane was at the gate we needed. We finally made it after waking up the kids we were ready to head to custom's. A long walk through the plane. I am so thankful for moving walk ways and escalator's. We had to take a train while on the train we had our picture taken with some Korean women they couldn't believe Dillon's bright red hair and everyone else blond hair and how many kids I had. We made it and customs was a breeze after waiting in line. It seemed that my kids where so tired that every line we got into they all laided down on the floor. We got to baggage claim and sat down to wait for Spencer (remember we landed an hour early) and then I realized that I had to go through another security point so to the gate we headed thankfully there was no line and we were able to go right through. There was Spencer and everything fell in to place he had made us a welcome sign and everything (later I found out that they had all the supplies at the airport to make signs) The kids ran and hugged their Daddy and even Christina would go to him. Then came the drive home the kids all fell asleep in the car and we made ok time. We did see one accident where a bus has side swiped a car. The bigger you are the more right of way people have to give you. We arrived at our house and put the kids to bed thankfully Spencer had those all set up and ready to go.

We Made It

2008-11-11T02:00:00.000-08:00

We made it to Korea safe and sound. Everyone has been nice. I will post more latter. I am very tired from the traveling and the time change.

Korea

2008-10-28T12:11:00.000-07:00

We are going to Korea on the 8th of Nov. I can't wait to be with Spencer and have my family together again.

Stamp in' Up

2008-10-23T06:41:00.000-07:00

I sell Stampin' Up and was wondering if any one would like something. I am offering free shipping through the end of the month. I thought I wouldn't be able to sell in Korea and I can to military and Dod employees. If you are interested just leave me a note and I'll e-mail you and we can work it out. If you have friends that would like to order a 150.00 makes a party. For collecting $150.00 in sales you receive a level 1 stamp set and $15.00 worth of free merchandise and I will through in a free ink pad. You can view the full catalog at www.stampinup.com

our apartment

2008-10-21T09:15:00.000-07:00

here is my apartment. Spencer did a pretty good job chosing a place for us to live.

Our new car

2008-10-21T09:05:00.000-07:00

Here is the car that Spencer bought us to use in Korea.

Life

2008-10-16T23:36:00.000-07:00

Spencer found us an apartment in Korea this week. He is going to move in on the 7th of Nov. We have to pay for the first month up front because he didn't get all the paper signed in time for the Army to start paying for it in Nov. So I need to pay his rent and mine next month good thing my Dad is my land lord. I think he might be willing to work with me a little. He also found us a car that will sit 6 I think he is paying about 1500 for it. They are still working on it so we'll see if he gets.

I was stressing out about our command sponsor ship and moving to Korea so I decided to fast about it and I had such peace come into my heart and soul. I am grateful for the a Heavenly Father who gives us the peace we are looking for. Know we are planing on going to Korea about the 10th of Oct. if they get our paper work finished for the 2nd time. They finished it once with the wrong number on it so we are doing it again. I know that everything will work out the way the Lord wants them too and that is will be the best thing for my family.

Tagged Crazy Eights

2008-10-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

Eight TV Shows I love to watch

1. CSI

2. Army Wives

3. The Unit

4. Law and Order ( haven't really watched it since I have been here though)

5. I really don't watch that much tv. I haven't had it for the past 4 years. I have local channels know.

Eight things that happened yesterday

1. Took the kids to enrichment

2. Christina and I went shopping

3. Watched Dillon's puppet show at school

4. Took the kids to lunch with Karen

5. Went to Leslie's and went through her dress up clothes for Halloween costumes. Thanks for the great outfits

6. Played UNO with Kray and Joe

7. BBQ

8. Waited up for Dillon to get home from Scouts

Eight Favorite Places to eat

1. Mom's house

2. Karen's house

3. Angela's house

4 Any where the food is free

5 Cracker Barrel

6. Taco Bell

7. Little Ceasers (that's what I buy for my kids)

8. Good Mexican Food

Eight things I'm looking forward to

1. History camp (almost a whole week to me and Christina what will we do with the time?)

2. Joe's birthday party

3. Halloween I love to watch the excitement on the kids faces

4. Going to Korea

5 Being with Spencer

6. Riding with my Dad and Karen in the mornings

7. Hopefully going to Sea World

8. Christmas

Eight Things on my wish list

1. To have Spencer never go on a trip for work again

2.To lose 20 lbs.

3. For my kids to listen the first time

4. To have my scrap books all current

5. To run as fast as Karen

6. Lots of new clothes

7. A convertible

8. for my kids to stay little forever and for me to be their favorite person

I tag

Leslie

Aunt Darlene

Tracey

Peggy

Amber

Stephanie

Autum

Holly

Enjoy Ladies

Freeze Tag

2008-10-15T20:01:00.000-07:00

6 Quirks of Maria

1. When I sleep in a bed I can't have the sheet tucked in on any of the sides or the back. I am always pulling the sheet out. If they are tucked in I can't sleep.

2. I have to have my toilet paper roll form the top. I always feel the need to change it no matter where I am at. I know this makes it easier for little children to pull it out and make a mess but who cares I have to have it that way.

3. I love to scrapbook, have people over to scrapbook, teach people how to scrapbook, but I hate scrap booking other peoples pictures.

4. I hate to be late which is hard with four little kids.

5. I have to be in control of the money. It works out great for Spencer and I. I am happy with how it is spent and he is happy that the bills get paid.

6. I love having children but have no patients. I feel like I am a chicken running around with my head cut off. I am sure that all mom's feel that way at some point. Maybe it's worse because I am home-schooling and Spencer is gone.

Here are the rules

Link the person who tagged you

Tell about 6 quirks of yours

Tell 6 fellow bloggers to do the same

Mamma Mia

2008-10-08T21:05:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you about this great movie I watched Saturday night and then again this afternoon with my Mom. It's Mamma Mia and the music is wonderful. I love musicals and catchy songs so this movie was for me and it has a happy ending. If you get a chance I would go and watch it. It's a broad way play and has been around for every. ( I think)

sleeping girl

2008-09-28T21:29:00.000-07:00

So I have started a bad habit of letting Christina sleep in my bed. At first it was when she woke up in the middle of the night and then when the boys would sleep over at my sisters or when she would fall asleep at 4 and sleep till 6. The problem is know when ever I tell her to go to bed she runs to my bed. I figure when I go to Korea Spencer can solve the problem or maybe I will just have to start being strong (mean) and putting her in her bed.

Anniversary

2008-09-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

As I begin my day I am drawn to the fact that I am celebrating another anniversary on my own, it seems since we have been in the army that Spencer has been gone for more anniversaries then he is home for them. And yet today I would say that I have a stronger, happier marriage and that each and every year it gets better. I am lucky to have married my best friend. Spencer complaments me in every aspect. He will laugh with me and cry with me. Mostly he laughs at how totaly stupid I can be, he loves me and puts up with me. I can't imagine what my life would be like without him. He is truly my better half, so on this day of celebration that we are spending apart I want to let the world know how grateful I am for my husband. I want to share with you my testimony of an eternal family. I was privillaged to be born to parents who taught my the gospel and when the time came I knew what I was looking for in a spouse. The day I meet Spencer I knew that I would marry him, he helped me move a dresser from his house to my apartment. He was living with his brother at the time. That night we went out and he was everything that I had been looking for. My parents have the perfect marriage and Spencer looked at me the way my Dad looks at my Mom and he still does today. Spencer and I were married in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity. I know that with the blessings of the temple and living the gospel that we will be together forever with our children. I know that Jesus of our Savior and that he died for each of us and if we will except his gift then we can live with him and our Heavenly Father for ever. I love this gospel and my family.

Happy anniversary babe I love you.

sick

2008-09-24T21:33:00.000-07:00

Today was our second enrichment plan and I had big plans to go shopping. As the cookie crumbles Dillon got sick in the middle of the night. Kray woke up sick. Joe went to enrichment with Karen and then when he got home he got sick too. Christina and I got hit this afternoon. I felt like the walking dead. I am glade that Christina and I got sick around the same time and then we took a nap together. My Mom and Dad brought over ginger ale, apple juice and crackers. I am hoping that everyone wakes up feeling better.

first day of school

2008-09-21T07:56:00.000-07:00

The Charter school that my kids go to has enrichment classes every Wednesday. The boys had a great time and learned lots. Kray and Joe saw a live owl, and got to have a pretend fire. Dillon made a bowl in his ceramic class and is the mother pig in the three little pigs in his puppet class. One of the girls wanted to be one of the boy pigs so he traded her spots. I am glade that he is such a sweet heart. I am glade that they had a great time and are excited to go back next week.

nail

2008-09-20T17:31:00.000-07:00

here is the giant nail!!

Dillons second belly button

2008-09-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

2008-09-20T01:02:00.000-07:00

Today we went apple picking for a field trip with our home school. Just as I was walking out the door I heard Dillon crying I turned to see what was wrong and he looked like he had blood coming out his belly button. It turns out that he was using a giant nail as a walking stick and showing Kray a trick when he feel on it and cut his stomach. Karen cleaned it while I called and talked to the nurse in AL. He is current on all his shots so I decided not to take him in. He is excited that he can have two belly buttons like Uncle Michael but wishes that it would quit hurting.

We did go on to pick apples and have a great time. We said a prayer before we left at Dillon's request that he wouldn't have to go to the doctor and that we would have a fun day. I am glade that he has the faith in me and in prayer to have me offer a prayer on his behalf. My testimony was strengthen by his request. I am so proud of my family. Kray was really worried for Dillon, I think he was having some flash backs to when he got hurt. I love watching my boys take care of each other. Joe got Dillon a pillow so he would be more comfortable in the van on the drive to pick apples.

Dillons Birthday

2008-09-18T22:28:00.001-07:00

I can hardly believe that Dillon turned 8 today I don't feel old enough to have an 8 year old. I realized that Spencer has missed 4 of Dillon's birthdays. I feel sorry for Spencer and the kids when he has to miss out on so many important things. In Oct he will be baptized by my Dad part of my wants him to wait tell we see Spencer so he can do it but that would be a little selfish. Dillon is so excited to baptized and my Dad is the next best thing.

We had a great day celebrating Dillon's birthday. We had Popeye waffles for breakfast, pizza for lunch and a shrimp dinner with my parents and David. Afterwards we went over to my parents house and had homemade ice cream. On Saturday we are going to have a family wiener roast and a pinjatia. So here's to my boy Happy Birthday Dillon I love you.

My Life

2008-09-18T22:28:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those nights when you have 2 crying kids and no idea why. It seems that Kray is having bad dreams and Christina keeps waking up every time she hears him crying. I guess I know why but nothing I do seems to help.

Can I say I love living by family but we are having a rough go of it. I was drying my hair and my power went out. I went and checked the the breaker box and flipped all the switces no luck. My Dad said maybe it needs to cool off and then it will work. You would hope but no go. So know I have no power to my cooler, washer or bed room kitchen plugs, fridge or where my computer is. Thankfully the rest of my house has power so we were able to run extension cords. Cody came over and ran a plug to my washer and cooler thanks Cody. My Dad came over to fix the breaker and there is nothing wrong with it. The next step is to open all the plugs and follow them to see if we can find were the problem is. It can be from a good plug or a bad plug so it sounds like a lot of work and my Dad has lots of projects of his own to work on. The pump has gone out on one of the wells so this weekend he is going to fix it. Maybe next weekend we can start taking apart plugs. Then my fridge went out and we had to haul all my food over to the extra fridge outside. My fridge seems to be working so tomorrow I am going to bring all my food back over. My oven has not been working since I moved in we ordered the part and it finally came in my Brother and Dad came over to fix it and spent an hour but where unable to figure it out. It was natural gas and we switched it to propane. I am getting good practice in for Korea since they don't use ovens. The good thing is I can bake at my parents, my sisters or the outside stove. That is all that has been going, we are playing hard all day and love being around family.

fun in cali

2008-09-15T06:46:00.000-07:00

we have been having a great time riding and playing on the farm. my sister has a buddy saddle where the kids can sit. i was surprised how good christina does on a horse. she wants to go out and pet the horses everyday.

argh

2008-09-08T20:58:00.000-07:00

So Spencer was suppose to get his pinpoint orders yesterday. The guy that was suppose to get them knew nothing. He told them maybe today and he came back today and told him that he could either go to Camp Eagle or Camp Humphreys we knew that before he left. Oh well maybe latter on we'll know where he's going. Like when they tell him to get off the bus.

Aztec NM

2008-09-05T14:13:00.000-07:00

Crawbad fishing with cousins.

Riding dirt bikes

Riding pony's is so fun.

Cousins are my best friends. We had a great time playing with our cousins.

Working hard on the farm. The boys had fun playing with their cousins. Christina loved Harlie she would follow her around. Thanks guys for a great time. We had fun playing with you.

carlsbad caverns

2008-08-31T16:12:00.000-07:00

The whole gang

Laura, Jonah and Ryker poor Michael had to workL Christina
my family The kiddos

Clay, Amy, and Family

   Dillon took this pic.
   Dillon and Spencer spending some bounding tim:)
   Joe leading the way
my pretty princess
Poor Logan got sick and trow up. Good thing we had our suit cases and we could give him uncle Spencer's pj's to wear.
The boys playing while we got everything cleaned up.

We had so much fun at the caverns I am glade that I was able to convience every one to come along. We learned about rocks and got to 800 ft. underground. I wish we could have seen the bats come out that evening but Clay, Amy and Laura had to get home and we hit the road heading to Trevor and Cindy's. Thanks everyone for a great time

Alpine Tx

2008-08-26T21:06:00.000-07:00

   Joe playing
   Catching Uncle Michael's Ginny Pig

   Flips on the tramp

We had a great time playing with our cousins in Alpine. We had a full house with Clay and Amy their 6 kids Spencer, me and our 4 kids and Michael and Laura with their 2 kids. I love hanging out with family. I am grateful that Spencer was able to get so much time off that we could play and enjoy everyone along the drive.

Rasmussen load

2008-08-25T14:15:00.000-07:00

This is my brothers truck when he moved to Alpine. I was scared to drive to close to him

From some angles he looks taller then the big rigs. I was very grateful to make it to Alpine in one piece.

San Antonio

2008-08-21T21:12:00.001-07:00

San Antonio was our first stop on our drive to California. We stayed with Michael and Laura they were getting ready to move so we went down to the Alamo and the river walk. We got to go on one of the boats the kids loved it. They sat still the whole time. The next day we went swimming at a resort. My favorite part was the lazy river, sit on a tube and go round and round.We took Michael and Laura's son Jonah with us both days so he could have fun while they were packing.

Travel to California

2008-08-21T21:01:00.000-07:00

We got a late start heading out. We ended up spending two nights with our friends the Glens. They were great to let us stay with them. The first night we had a fire. Christina was standing by the fence when the horse came up she ran away saying neigh neigh. Zen picked her and the horse and her became friends. Thanks guys we had a great time.

2008-08-19T11:50:00.000-07:00

What is going on I can't add pictures?

vaction

2008-08-11T08:23:00.000-07:00

We are having a great time on our drive to Cali. I can't find the cord to hook up my camera so pictuers will be comming once we get to Cali. Here are some pics. that My brother Clay and his wife Amy took with my computer. More to info to be coming. Thanks everyone we are having a great time.