The Martells

No Good Deed Goes Unpunished

2010-12-14T20:29:00.000-08:00

Wow...can't believe it's been 3 months since I've posted on here! I've had so many things to post about, but life has been a bit crazy, and my mind is failing me at the moment...so, I'm posting a very random story today (because lets be honest, when am I not random?)...

Before I tell this story, let it be known that I do NOT condone the behavior that I am about share with you in any way. Especially if you are my children. Or the young women in my ward. Don't say I didn't warn you.

It was my senior year of high school and a friend and I had been hanging out one evening. It was nearing midnight, so we decided to head back to his house. We happen to have a few eggs in our car. Of the unboiled sort. (You know where this is going, right?) So, we decided to use them. On a passing vehicle. (Read: Bad idea. Don't try this at home. Or in your car.) So, as the next oncoming car approached, we threw an egg, hitting the car right in the middle of the windshield.

We looked in our rear-view mirror and saw the car flip around and start coming after us.

So, we decided to one-up it. We too flipped around and just as we were passing the car, we again threw an egg. And again hit the car right on the windshield.

Again we saw the car flip around and start pursuing us. And again we flipped our car around. Except we had no eggs left. We did, however, happen to have a carton of milk. So, we threw that at the car. And nailed it.

After that we decided we'd better book it to my friend's house so we wouldn't be late for curfew (Because we apparently were trying to make some good choices??). We pulled into the driveway right on time.

And then another car pulled in right behind us.

With eggs and milk all over it.

And his dad stepped out of the car.

2010-09-09T20:03:00.000-07:00

So, after a long day of helping to take care of 6 children (currently at my sister's since she just had a new baby...) I received a phone call from Izak's school. I thought about not answering, but figured, if his school is calling at 8pm, it must be important. And boy was it ever! I am soooo glad I didn't miss this vital-to-my-life information. Here was the message I received:

"Hello. This is your Principal. That's principal with a p-a-l, not p-l-e. We recently sent out a newsletter before we had the chance to edit it. We apologize for spelling "Principal" with a p-l-e instead of a p-a-l. A good reminder to check our spelling before we send out any information. And please remind your children to check their spelling as well. Thank you. Have a good day."

Phew! I was VERY concerned when I received that newsletter and have been stewing for days as to what I should do about this catastrophe.

I will sleep well for the first time in days. Thank you Ms. ~~Principle~~ Principal!

I swear I use to be Cool...

2010-08-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

So, before I share my most recent experience at my awesomeness in social situations, here are some explanatory details....

I work with the children at our church, which is called primary.
When we're assigned to a certain program within the church, it's called a "calling".
We have a "bishop" which is like a pastor, who extends these "callings".

Okay...here is my conversation this past Sunday at church...

Primary President: So, I was talking to the bishop and he said he was thinking of calling Sue to work with us in the primary. I can't remember her last name though.
Me: Was it Sue Sylvester?
Primary President: No, that wasn't it.
Me: Are you sure??! That name sounds really familiar.
Primary President: Umm, Kate, that's because she's from Glee.

See what you all are missing by not hanging out with me more? Even the dumbest of you (Lets not get into who that would be.) would feel smart when you're with me. It's one of my many, many talents.

C-Sections

2010-08-06T11:57:00.001-07:00

Okay, all I have to say is I don't know why anyone would CHOOSE to have a c-section (other than for medical reasons, of course). I mean, considering how nauseous you get, to the point of having to lay down completely flat on your back during the operation... And then, after all is said and done, the fact that you have to be taken out of the operation room in a wheelchair.... it sounds awful to me. And if it's that hard on the (student) doctor, I can only imagine how hard it is for the patient.

What? What's that you say? How is Dave's OB/GYN rotation going? I promised him I would not divulge any embarrassing details on this blog, so you'll have to ask him personally. No, really, please ask him.

Thinking of You

2010-07-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

Call me crazy but I've got this rule. The rule is that if I've lived in a place for over two years, any mail that comes (for the previous owners) in my mailbox, now belongs to me. I don't care whose name is on it. So, you'd better believe that today when I checked my mailbox and there was a hand written card (for the previous owners), I was so excited! A card, no matter whose name is on the envelope, is exciting. Right? Right? So, I opened it. And like most hand written cards, it did not disappoint. Here it is....

And this is what was written on the inside (took a picture, but it didn't turn out)....

"Missed seeing you at church. Hope you both are doing better. Jenny & Debbie"

I did mention that we've lived here over two years, right? I can just imagine their conversation now....

Debbie: Hey Jenny, you know who I haven't seen in ~~2 years~~ a few weeks?

Jenny: Who Debbie?

Debbie: Gertrude and George.

Jenny: You're absolutely right Debbie! They haven't been here in ~~2 years~~ a couple of weeks have they? I wonder if they're okay.

Debbie: I remember that ~~2 years~~ a few weeks ago they were feeling a little under the weather, I hope they're doing better.

Jenny: Hey, I have an idea! Lets send them a card to let them know we're thinking of them and hope they're doing better.

Debbie: Ingenious Jenny!

2010-05-26T12:44:00.000-07:00

So, a few weeks ago our washing machine broke. Broke in that our laundry room was flooded with water. E.V.E.R.Y.W.H.E.R.E. Dave and I, being the handy-people we are, called to have someone come look at it and get a quote.

The guy showed up. Looked for a few minutes and informed us that the sealant was cracked and needed to be replaced. 15 minutes of work=$160.

We decided to get a second opinion.

The next guy showed up. Looked at it for a few seconds and informed us that a mosquito must have peed on the floor. Kill the mosquito=$0. We went with the second opinion. (Whose name happens to be Izak.)

Izak right before he pounced on the guilty mosquito

2010-05-14T16:18:00.000-07:00

(Protecting himself (if you know what I mean) and others from temper tantrum-throwing moms)

I could see what was coming. A big, huge, fat, ugly melt down. I decided the best thing to be done would be to get the guilty party to go lay down and take a nap quickly before the volcano erupted that was beginning to boil inside.

So, that is exactly what I did.

I marched my grumpy, fit-throwing self straight to my bedroom.

Laid down on my bed.

And closed my eyes.

At 10:30 in the morning.

A few minutes later I heard little feet shuffling into my room. "I tired too Mommy." And Landon slipped himself into the sleeping bag that has permanently taken up residence next to my bed.

An hour and a half later Izak comes into the room. "Mommy, can I be all done with quiet time?" I look at the clock. 12:15pm. I tell Izak to go get ready for preschool. "Preschool?! At night?! I don't have preschool at night!"

(Because "normally" nap time is closely followed by dinner time which is closely followed by bed time. Except for times such as these. You know, when I'm about to freakishly freak out on my children for just being children.)

Me=Awesomeness

2010-04-15T21:46:00.001-07:00

I was in such a hurry to get the kids in the car after soccer practice so Dave and I could get to our separate church meetings. It's always such an ordeal....have to pack up the dinner we ate while watching Izak's practice, pack up the toys to entertain the other three children (2 that we babysit) during practice, and pack all the children into the car.

By the time I actually pull out of the parking spot I feel like I deserve an award for making it out of there with all my children in one piece without yelling at everyone (I didn't say I don't yell, I said I don't yell at everyone-did you catch that?).

So, you can imagine how helpful it was when, while I'm loading all our ~~crap~~ stuff, and a lady in a car waiting starts getting all impatient asking if I'm going to leave soon.

I politely inform her that I am leaving soon, but that it's going to take a little while.

She then proceeds to raise her voice explaining that she's holding up traffic waiting for me to leave.

And then I explain that I have four children that I am trying to get into the car and that she is welcome to either wait until I'm done loading everyone/everything, or she is welcome to move on and look for another spot.

At that point all I hear is "RUDE, RUDE, RUDE....blah, blah, blah (seriously, I couldn't tell what she was saying. Thankfully.)..." So, I just turned away and continued trying to load my children into the car.

And then a friend of mine walked up and said, "Hey, is that lady yelling at you cause she wants you to close the passenger door so she can get into that spot next to you?" And then I look over. And sure enough, the spot next to me is empty. And the door is wide open.

Yep. I'm awesome like that.

Real Women Change Shocks

2010-03-13T18:37:00.001-08:00

It was the beginning of another hot, windy, dry day on the farm. I looked at my watch. Barely 9am, though we had already been working for a while now; if you can call laying in the fields working. My two sisters and I decided to go sit in the truck for a while. We noticed my brother had left the keys in the ignition. I tried to convince my older sister to drive, but she was smarter than me, and refused.

It was the summer of my 14th birthday. I quickly got behind the wheel and after a few attempts (it was a standrad), the truck was moving. As I looked in the rear-view mirror, I saw my brother yelling and running towards us. I found the gas pedal quickly. And so we were off.

My sisters and I were crammed like sardines into the little white pick-up; flying over the bumps on the dirt/rock roads of the farm. The fields stretched on for miles. And so we rode on for a few more minutes.

As I drove the truck up the pivot road I saw my brother coming towards us. I slammed on the brakes just before hitting the white cement at the base of the pivot. As soon as the engine was turned off, we flung open the doors, and ran as fast as we could for the potato field. Once we were a little distance off, we quickly layed down in between the rows and rows of potatoes in hopes my brother couldn't find/see us.

No sooner had we layed down than we found we were being attacked by dirt clods. Huge, sometimes rocky, always hard, dirt clods. One after another. Landing within feet of where we were laying. In the distance we could hear my brother yelling about our stupidity for taking the truck and how we were going to get it when dad found out. And then, finally, there was silence. The bombing of dirt clods had ceased....

My dad did find out. He said that I went so fast and hard over so many bumps on the dirt road that I ruined the shocks.

My consequence: to change the shocks in the truck.

I'll Never Know

2010-02-24T12:43:00.000-08:00

The question just keeps haunting me....

Why?

Why did he forget....

That he was loved by me and so many others.

Why didn't he remembered what he himself wrote to me...

"I know that Jesus Chirst lives and is our Redeemer"?

Why didn't he understand that there is always hope...

That anything can change if we but make it happen?

Why wouldn't he respond these past few months....

When I would email him to see how he was doing?

And I just keep thinking....

I wish.

I wish I could hug him just one last time....

And remind him that he was one of my very dearest friends.

I wish I could help him see the person I saw....

Who was such an amazing person in so many ways.

I wish he had the understanding and hope that I have....

That anything we are not content with in our lives, we have the power to change.

But he is gone.

And I will forever miss him.

I Like Big Butts and I Cannot Lie...

2010-01-16T08:03:00.000-08:00

$600

Translation: Dave sat on our laptop and it cost lots of moolah to fix it.

All In a Days Work

2009-12-22T13:39:00.000-08:00

Izak was throwing a fit because he didn't want to take a family picture....

Dave accidentally hurt Izak during the second take of the family picture....

Landon then hurt Dave, for hurting Izak, during the family picture....

And that's how Christmas family pictures roll around this household...

Did I mention earlier that day Landon bit Dave's nose in the middle of the choir singing (probably Peace on Earth) at church?

Story #2

2009-11-10T19:05:00.000-08:00

I was so excited! I was packing up my little maroon truck, getting ready for the trek to Oregon. It was going to be a full weekend of snowboarding with my man. As I was walking across the parking lot, arms filled with snowboarding gear and my duffle bag, I gracefully slipped on a patch of ice and went flying into the air. I landed on the ice alongside my belongings. Quickly I looked around to see if anyone had seen my clumsiness in all of its glory. Luckily only my (now laughing) roommate. I picked myself up, grabbed my gear, and put it into the truck. I then limped my way back to my apartment. Within a matter of minutes it was as big as my behind. Later that day it was confirmed broken.

Monday morning found me walking between two friends to our spanish class. I, in my big black boot, would be getting my leg cast in a matter of hours. It had been three long days. We were within a few hundred feet of the building when all of a sudden a familiar air-born feeling was upon me. I once again found myself in the air, only this time I landed on my nose instead of my leg. Through gritted teeth I told my friends to stop laughing. Blood was quickly staining the white snow.

And then all of a sudden I was being carried in someone's arms. I looked up into the face of LaMar, our spanish class comrade. I protested, but he would not put me down. We were headed to the Student Health Center on campus to get an x-ray of my nose. And then the unmentionable, that has been mentioned twice already, happened. Within a few feet of the building, LaMar slipped on the ice, which threw me into the air. I landed on the ground with a thud. LaMar landed on top of my booted broken leg with a bigger thud.

LaMar was later recognized as "Man of the Year" at Ricks College.

Three Truths and a Lie

2009-11-03T12:15:00.001-08:00

So, as I'm sure you all can tell, I've been having quite the dry spell with my entries lately. The other day Dave and I were playing the "Two truths and a Lie" game over text messaging. I decided to give it a try on my blog. Since I have NUMEROUS stories I could tell, I decided to make it three truths instead of two. And I decided that all of these stories will come from my college years. If you are someone that knows about these stories, please don't give it away in the comments section. I'll put a poll on the side of the blog so the voting can begin as to which story is the lie. So, without further ado, here is the first story....

L and K, my roommates, thought "Biology Boy" (a.k.a. Ben) was so cute. Every day after biology class I had to hear them gush over him. To each other. Because heaven forbid they actually talk to him. Or even look in his direction. In fact, the only reason we knew his real name is that I had happened to catch a glimpse of his paper with his name written at the top. L was just too shy to talk to him. And K thought she was flirting with a boy if she so much as smiled at him.

One day I got so tired of hearing about Ben knowing full well neither of them had any intentions of ever doing anything about it. So, I decided to do something about it. I called the college operator and got his phone number. And then I called him. And we talked. For a long time. I, of course, was using an alias because L and K would kill me if I used their real names and I personally had no interest in him. I flirted like he was the last man alive. He ate it up like candy. So much so that he wanted to know where I lived. Which of course I lied about. And wouldn't luck be on my side when he said he knew ALL of the girls in that apartment and he knew I was not one of them. I quickly hung up the phone.

A minute later it rang. L, K, and I yelled to everyone in the house NOT to answer the phone.

Our roommate answered the phone.

We were wildly shaking our heads to NOT give him any information.

She told him where we lived.

5 minutes later there was a knock at our door. We told everyone NOT to answer the door.

Our roommate answered the door.

L, K, and I ran for the back bedroom, leaped into the air, and landed with a thud, one on top of the other in between both beds. Luckily, at Ricks College, there was a rule that no boys were allowed in the bedrooms. A few minutes later we heard the door close. We tiptoed out of the bedroom and found our roommate. She then proceeded to tell us how not only did she tell the boys (we found out there were 5 boys that had come over! At midnight!) MY and only MY name, but she found my photo album and showed him pictures of ME so he could be sure to recognize me the following day in biology class.

I didn't go to biology class the next day.

Happy Halloween!!

2009-10-31T20:33:00.000-07:00

Friends at First Sight

2009-10-20T13:33:00.000-07:00

(Knock at the door)

Me: Hello

Random Boy: Hi. Is there a boy here with brown hair that comes about to my shoulders?

Me: Um, I have a son named Izak, is that who you're talking about?

Random Boy: I don't know. Someone just told me that there was a boy here that might be able to come ride bikes with me.

Me: Well, we're about to take naps right now, maybe he can later today though (With me riding behind him, pulling Landon in the bike trailer, of course. You know, so Izak feels super cool and like a big-boy.)

Random Boy: Okay, I'll come back later.

(Later on at Costco...)

Izak: Mom, we need to hurry so we can get home before it's dark.

Me: Why?

Izak: Because I'm suppose to go ride bikes with my friend.

So, if any of you are looking for a friend with brown hair that's about 5'7'', just come a knockin'...

Here Comes Trouble

2009-10-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

In my social work years, I learned real quick,

some kids were made cuter, but it's a sneaky trick.

You see, the cuter they come, the bigger the trouble-makers.

and God made them just like that so there'd be takers.

You don't believe me? Then you tell me,

when's the last time you stayed mad at a cu-tie?

I should've seen the red flag when this little guy came out,

because he's as cute as a button, without a doubt.

With that being said, I'm sure you can guess

how potty-training's going, and who's having success.

I'll give you one clue, it's not this girl,

but I'll spare you the details so you won't hurl.

Yep, he's as cute as can be, but it comes with a price.

You never know if he'll be naughty or nice.

So remember the next time you say you want a cute one,

you might soon be wishing you were a childless nun!

Edited to add: Please know that this poem was written only as comedic relief for a frustrated-potty-training-parent. I know that I am very blessed to have my children, and would never wish that I did not have them (even if one poops all over my floor).

Long Overdue

2009-09-25T14:23:00.001-07:00

So, I've been meaning to dedicate a post to my good man for a while, and seeing how it's his birthday today, I figured today would work out perfect to FINALLY get this post written.

I could tell you that the reason for this post is because of all these random reasons like...

He's now ranked in the top 8% in his class with a 3.92 GPA (yawn).
He makes us VERY healthy breakfast smoothies every day (even when he leaves at 6am, but not when he leaves at 4am, what's up with that?).
He watched the boys a number of times this summer so I could go spend time with my sister in Portland and go to NYC for my big 3-0.

... but I don't want to bore all of you with those miniscule details of his life...

So the REAL reason(s) for this post is because my husband has some uniquely impressive talents that need to be highlighted such as...

His ability to quote Ramona Quimby better than anyone else I know (It has NOTHING to do with the fact that he has me check out Ramona Quimby audiotapes for him to listen to in the car. Seriously. They're for him.) Melts. My. Heart.
He has a very positive outlook. For example, the other day he found out that we live within 30 minutes of a nuclear power plant that if it were to explode, it would have a 50 mile radius of exposure. "But, the good thing is that we'd go really fast". See? Always positive.
Last, but not least, Dave is a domestic extraordinaire. See the evidence below (Landon's b-day cake). All hand-crafted by Domestic Dave (he insists I call him that) himself.

It's nice to know that if this whole Doctor thing doesn't work out, he's got a fall-back plan.

Just wanted to let you know, David, that even though you are obviously getting older, you are sexier now than the day I met you. INSIDE and out. Seriously. I. LOVE. YOU.

Shout Out

2009-09-14T15:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Maama,

David thanks you for the new office chair.

Izak thanks you even more for the new bed.

Words O' Wisdom Citings

2009-09-04T14:28:00.000-07:00

I wouldn't be a real friend if I didn't take the time to share with you some recent valuable information that I have come across...

"Buckle up your baby! Safety in the clinic is as important as safety in your car!"

(Sign posted at doctor's clinic) Seriously?! The SAME?!

Landon feeling relieved after his building barely dodges the head-on collision with the building next door.

"It's a kilt people. If I was wearing something underneath, then it would be a skirt."

(On the back of some guy's shirt-who was wearing a kilt. I checked.)

Kilt or skirt? I guess you'll never know...

And the last, but DEFINITELY my favorite...

"God made us sisters. Prozac made us friends."

(On a PLAQUE!! at a store)

I bet you can't guess what my sisters will be getting for Christmas...

Now, be a real friend, share your most recent Words O' Wisdom citings...

Me So Smart

2009-08-24T22:39:00.000-07:00

Ever since my brother showed up to the same math class as me (even though I was in high school and he was in junior high) I've made it my personal mission to remind others of my intelligence every chance I get. Here are just a few (of many!) examples of my smarts...

Example 1

Kate: I don't think that really looks that much like Michael Scott (speaking of a life-size cut-out at the NBC store in NYC)

Dave: That's NOT Michael Scott, Kate, it's Matt Lauer

Example 2

My sister: So, while I lived in Denmark, I toured a lot of different countries in Europe

Kate: So, did you visit China? (This was in high school, I now know that China is in Africa)

Example 3

While playing catch phrase:

Brother-in-law: (clue) He walked on the moon

Dave: (answer) Neil Armstrong

Kate: (laughing so hard until I found out he was right)

Dave: You were thinking Lance Armstrong weren't you?

Kate: Maybe...

And just so you all know how Dave and I ended up together...

Dave: (laughing) Did you see what that says on the side of that truck?

Kate: You mean the one that says "Bigelow"?

Dave: Yah, isn't that such a funny name for a business?

Kate: Why?

Dave: Get it, b-i-g-o-l-o.

Kate: Um, Dave, are you thinking of "Gigolo"?

Dave: Ooohh.

All I Want For Christmas Are...

2009-08-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

...My two front teeth.

(Apparently Landon's infamous fall at the big BK not only damaged the tooth they extracted months ago, but also the one right next to it. Yesterday we noticed that his tooth was slightly green and by last night his mouth was swollen. It was pulled by 9am this morning.)

As you can see, Landon is still trying to adjust to his new look. If you could kindly give him a wink and a big thumbs up when you see him, it'll do wonders for his self-esteem.

And then I turned 30...

2009-07-25T22:09:00.000-07:00

You know, I was starting to feel all sad that I was turning the big 3-0 and then I remembered just how many talents I have developed to their fullest capacities over these past 30 years and I became excited to see how many more talents I can develop in the next 30. So, in honor of turning 30, here are just a few of my many talents and accomplishments so far in life...

My ability to defend myself

My ability to blend in with those around me

My ability to be feminine

My ability to be graceful in parking lots

My ability to make my sisters happy. All. The. Time.

My ability to design/make the HOTTEST outfits ever

My ability to dress and look like a super model (far right)

My ability to look pretty WHILE exercising

My ability to look amazing in a swimsuit

My ability to make others look prettier than they already are

My ability to make any pants look good...

Bring on the 30's baby!

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T14:36:00.000-07:00

Izak and Landon are so blessed to have such a good Daddy. I'd say Happy Father's Day to my Dad too, but my Dad doesn't even know how to turn on a computer, let alone what a blog is. Speaking of Father's Day....

So, about a month ago I was planning this big family get together to take place over Father's Day weekend. My brother, sister, and I were going to run the Bear Lake 1/2 marathon so it was to be a family reunion of sorts with even my parents and brothers coming from Oregon. I even convinced my family to stay through Sunday so we could all celebrate Father's Day together before everyone headed their separate directions.

So, we booked a vacation home for a couple of days and started planning. I gave everyone food assignments for each day. My sister had Sunday breakfast so I spoke to her personally and asked her to make sure that it was an extra special breakfast since it was Father's Day. She told me that it was NOT going to be Father's Day. And then I politely told her that it indeed was! Back and forth, back and forth, until she just had to prove me wrong with a calendar (who really uses those things anyway?). So, if any of you celebrated Father's Day last Sunday instead of today, you're not alone.

I have a bad habit of doing things like that. You know, making up when I think different dates should be....

It reminds me of the time that I decided it was Daylight Savings. I just randomly got in my head that the next day was Daylight Savings. So I told Dave that we needed to switch our clocks ahead one hour before we went to bed. And we did. For some reason Dave wasn't that happy when we showed up to 8am church an hour early the next day. Someone has GOT to invent something to keep all of these dates straight....

On a random tangent-since coming to Utah, we've been doing quite a bit so I thought I'd just throw in random pictures rather than bore you with useless details. So, here they are in all their (non)glory...

After watching the boys for an entire weekend so we could celebrate our anniversary (thank you Maama!!), I think Dave's mom might agree with this sign (Dinosaur museum)

Dave has his throne (on a boxcar at the train museum in Ogden)....

And Landon has his (at a children's museum in Ogden)...

You know what I love about Shelly? She always calls me before we get together to make sure we will color coordinate for our pictures. (We were lucky enough to spend some time with Shelly and her kids both at a Children's Museum and Lagoon)

I've been told I look sexier with my eyes closed (Bear Lake 1/2 marathon)

Hope you all are having a great summer!

Izak turns 4...and a 1/2

2009-05-31T22:18:00.000-07:00

In honor of Izak's Half-Birthday (on June 2nd) here are a few stories about Izak:

Last week Izak, as a consequence, had to go out in the backyard and move rocks from one side of the house to the other (there's only so much physical labor you can have your child do with a backyard full of rocks). This process usually takes him about 10-15 minutes. Izak came back in the house within about 1 minute. I asked him if he had already moved his rocks and he told me he had. He then explained that he put all of the rocks into his dump truck and moved them all at once.

The other day Dave and Izak were talking about mommies and daddies. Dave told Izak that you don't become a Mommy/Daddy until you're old. Izak said, "Well, Mommy's not old. Why are only Daddies old?" to which Dave responded that parents are old so they can learn how to be nice, have patience, and teach their children. And then Izak said, "Well, sometimes Mommy doesn't talk nice to me.".

I'm not sure which is worse-being called old or your child saying you don't always talk nice to him.

I'm just kidding...it's obviously worse to be called old, sorry Dave!

And on a random side note: What does it mean if the only words my son knows how to spell (besides "Izak" and "Mom") are "poo" and "pee"?

We sure love Izak!

Happy Holidays

2009-05-25T21:28:00.000-07:00

It was a flawless plan.

That Arby's sign was ridiculously huge. I mean, yes, everyone loves curly fries-but who needs a life size sign to remind them of that? It was set in the perfect place for the kidnapping. Right inside the first set of doors but outside the second set-where the employees worked. So, my sister, friend, and I made the final plans as to how it would go down.

We had nothing better to do-that is, besides being in band class. Two would grab the bigger-than-life sign and one would be the get-away driver. It almost went off without a hitch. That dang sign was so huge we couldn't shut the back door of our Toyota Camry. A small glitch, but easily overcome by simply holding the open door (with the sign sticking out) while driving down Highway 395.

We quickly parked the car and headed into school for 7th period. On the way to class my sister informed me that she had cut her finger on the curly of the fry and needed a band-aid from the office. We bid farewell to our friend and headed for the office.

As we opened the door to the office the school police officer stopped us dead in our tracks. "Where have you been girls?" We didn't know what to say. "I just heard from dispatch that someone stole a sign from Arby's...Was it you two? Because they said the get-away car had "Happy Holidays" written across the entire back window and I know that is your car."

"She did it!" I screamed as I pointed to my sister and then I did one of the stupidest things I've ever done (And I've done a lot.)....I ran. And my sister ran after me. And the police officer ran after her. Through the halls. During passing hour. With students everywhere. Stopping to watch the spectacle of a girl running, with another girl right behind her, with an officer right behind her. And then I remembered the officer knew me by name. And knew my parents. And knew where I lived. So I stopped running.

It was a flawless plan...

...except for the huge "Happy Holidays" sign written in fake snow across our back window-

in the middle of March.

The Day I Became a Hero

2009-05-13T13:57:00.000-07:00

We knew we weren't suppose to go onto my neighbor's property, but we just couldn't resist, what with the abandoned animal homes and all, it was so mysterious. And the stream. It was bone-chilling cold, but so much fun. And so we were running back from the neighbor's property quick before my mom realized we were gone.

It always got a little tricky climbing back into our pasture from theirs. We had to climb over their fence while simultaneously clearing our hot wire fence. (You know, the kind that shock you when you pee on them?) But, it wasn't anything we couldn't handle.

I quickly cleared both fences and continued on my way. And then I heard a scream coming from behind. I looked back to see Cricket standing on our side of the pasture, pretending as though the hot wire fence was electrocuting her. She was just standing there saying she was stuck to the fence, all the while screaming and shaking.

At the ripe age of 10, Cricket was my best friend. And, I had to give it to her, that girl could make anyone laugh. But today, I was in no mood for her usual antics. If my mom found out we were down there in the neighbor's pasture again, I'd be in trouble for sure. So, I quickly told Cricket to knock it off and lets go before we got in trouble. AND, I reminded her that I had been shocked by that fence a bazillion times before so her little prank was not going to work on me- I knew it wasn't that strong of a shock.

But Cricket insisted on continuing with the drama of shaking and screaming. So, I did what any child-who's-about-to-get-their-rear-end-kicked would do...I called her bluff. I left her there, knowing she would be following in two seconds flat when she realized she had no audience.

But she didn't follow me. I turned around to see what she was doing. And she was still there, shaking and screaming. So, out of pure annoyance, I went back, pulled her away by the arm, and told her to start running. And she did.

Right after she showed me where her leg had been (permanently) burned from the hot wire fence.

Just Call Me Lolita

2009-05-06T22:10:00.001-07:00

If you could change your name to be anything you want, what would it be?

Helpful Hint: Don't go to an extremely religious university and change your name to "Lolita" also known as the "sexually precocious young girl" from a famous novel-or not so famous- to an ignorant, young, BYU student.

Karma

2009-04-23T15:20:00.000-07:00

Izak splashes Dave.

Dave splashes Izak.

Izak starts to cry and throw a fit.

Kate explains to Izak that if he doesn't want Dave to splash him then he shouldn't splash Dave.

Dave tells Izak it's called Karma.

Izak tells Dave he doesn't want to play Karma anymore.

And speaking of Karma....

A month or so again I went to the zoo with some friends.

A bird pooped on my friend's baby's head.

I laughed.

An hour later a bird pooped on my baby's head.

How about you-when was the last time Karma "pooped" on your head?

Just One of Those Days

2009-04-11T00:48:00.000-07:00

Today was just one of those days...

...when I would've been a better mother if I had just stayed in bed all day....

...when I talked through clenched teeth for fear of the unidentifiable screaming that would have ensued had I opened it...

...when I had to be reminded by my four-year-old that he is special and should be treated as such...

...when I got rained on from the top bunk (in the form of spit) courtesy of my one-year old.

...when I wanted to lock my children in a room together until I no longer heard crying and fighting...

...when the only one dressed was the self-dressing four-year-old...

...when I ~~wanted to~~ feed my children cookies for lunch...

...when my children looked cuter when they were sleeping...

You thought I was kidding about the pajamas didn't you?

Kids Adults Say the Darndest Things

2009-04-07T21:51:00.001-07:00

Male relative: Kate, are you pregnant?

Me: (child is already 1 1/2 years old and NOT pregnant) Why, do I look pregnant?

Male relative: Um, um, well, yeah, kind of.

Me: No, male relative, I am not.

Costco worker (while looking at my costco id): Is this you?

Me: Yes. I know, bad picture huh? (Who has a good Costco picture, tell me that!)

Costco worker: Wow. That is bad. I thought it was your mom.

Me: Oh really? (Apparently, it looks much worse than I gave myself credit for.)

Costco worker: Yeah, that is really bad. (As she gets the attention of fellow worker) Look at this, isn't that such an awful picture?! It totally looks like her mom. Wow, that's bad!

So, in honor of ONLY turning 30 (and not my mom's age!) and NOT being pregnant, I will be flying my bad self to New York City on July 16th!

And just for your viewing pleasure, I went ahead and scanned my Costco picture into my computer so you can see it for yourself.

What Does He Know Anyways?

2009-04-01T20:34:00.001-07:00

So, the other day I was grabbing the jogging stroller from the garage. Unfortunately, the car was parked in the way, so I had to lift it up over the car (at least the tires) to get it out. As I was doing so Izak says, "Mommy, stop, you're scratching the car!". Riiiight. Like a jogging stroller is sharp enough to scratch a car.

So, of course, I ignored him. I mean, seriously, what does a little 4-year-old know anyways?

Apparently he knew 12 inches more than I did.

Maybe next time I'll listen.

All About Me

2009-03-26T21:33:00.000-07:00

So I was talking to a friend the other day and I asked how things were going with he and his wife. He said to me, "Well, she's been really stressed. So, she's been pretty intense lately." And I said, "Intense, huh? So that's what they're calling it now?" And then we both laughed. Knowing what he really meant. I kind of like this interchange of words. And with that in mind, I would like to tell you a little bit about myself...

I am ~~cheap~~ frugal.

I am ~~fiesty~~ spunky.

I am ~~nerdy~~ unique.

I am ~~lazy~~ laid back.

See how that works? Now, why don't you give it a try.

A Day in the Life of a Social Worker

2009-03-16T15:19:00.001-07:00

I walked into the foster home. He had only one question for me.

Could he please keep the baby duck? I said no.

And then the name calling began.

Rocks went flying.

Sod was chucked as far as the husky 11-year-old could manage.

Spit drenched my face and clothes.

Bruises began to decorate my legs.

Teeth were sunk so deep into my arm that it was twice the size of the other and there was a permanent imprint (for a week).

We managed to break into his bedroom just in time to grab him from the second story window from which he was about to jump.

Restraints were used for 45 minutes until the police arrived.

And then he was calm.

And he understood that he couldn't keep something that belonged to someone else.

He would have a couple of days to think about it.

In Detention.

And he did.

All the way until he went to court for his charges.

He walked into the court room. He had only one question for the Judge.

Could

please

keep

the

baby

duck

One Day, They'll Thank Me

2009-03-09T22:04:00.000-07:00

So last week we took our children to the happiest place on earth. That's right. Disney-freakin'-expensive-land. (And they say you can't buy happiness! Ha!) Well, knowing that these chances only come so often, I knew my kids would want to make the most of it. So, I, being the wonderful mother I am, made sure it was everything they could've hoped for.

For instance, when Izak wanted to ride the same ride more than once, I of course told him no! I mean, can you imagine how mad he would be at me if 10 years from now he found out he didn't ride ALL the rides at Disneyland because his lame mom let him go on the same rides over and over again?

I even got his Maama (Grandma) to understand the importance of helping Izak to realize what he really wanted, even if that meant causing a few small heart aches in the moment in order to create lasting happiness in the future. Like the time that Izak REALLY wanted Lightning McQueen ears instead of Mickey Mouse ears-just think about it. 10 years from now that kid's not going to even know who Lightning McQueen is, let alone want to be wearing his EARS around! But you'd better believe he's still going to be sporting Mickey Mouse in Junior High.

And then of course I couldn't believe it when Izak said he was all done and ready to go home and it was still 3 hours until closing! I can just imagine never living down how I could have possibly allowed him to leave when there was still plenty more action to get in on before the day was over. I couldn't believe he tried the old, "But my feet are so tired, I can't walk anymore" routine. Puh-lease.

Yep. Disneyland was ALL about the kids. And one day, they'll thank me for it.

See how much fun we had?

We actually had a really great time-thanks to Dave's twin sister and her husband for being amazing hosts. They gave us their bed, cooked us amazing food every day, and helped take care of our kids when they woke up stinkin' early! And Maama was so great to meet us there, and spoiled our kids (and us by helping so much with them!!) only the way a Grandma can!! It was great, thanks guys!!

Random Reports

2009-02-17T18:28:00.000-08:00

Landon has asked that we respect his privacy while he continues to try to embrace his new "look", so unfortunately, he won't allow me to post a picture (yet) of the new toothlessness in all its wonder. But here is a picture of Landon and I to show that we survived. And it was a "we" effort...

On another note, Dave has decided that he would like to lose a little weight. He's hoping that with this new change in eating habits, he too will soon be able to fit his behind into a bowl.

And the last randomomness for you tonight....if you too are having a hard time motivating your child to get his/her pajamas on you might try this trick..."better hurry or you might miss seeing Tatiana sing"....what?! Where did this child come from?! (Should I be concerned if my child just prayed for Tatiana?)

I guess we have Tatiana to thank for these awesome dancing moves.

Let the Deed be Done

2009-02-10T14:03:00.000-08:00

So, I've had yet another ingenious idea.

You know how stinkin' cute kids look when they lose that first tooth? I'm not talking about the awkward part when half their teeth are missing and the other half are half coming in. I'm talking about when that first top, middle tooth is lost. Isn't it so cute? You know it is. Well, I was thinking the other day how it's so sad that that cute stage lasts for such a short period of time.

And then I thought, well, why does it have to last such a short time? So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and make my super cute baby into a super, super cute toothless wonder baby. Forget being cute with one front tooth gone for a month or two-my baby is going to be super cute with one front tooth gone for 6 years! 6 years of pure, uninterrupted cuteness! That's right people, I've contacted a pediatric dentist who is willing to aide me in this mission and his tooth will be pulled tomorrow at 10am sharp.

Now, don't feel sheepish if you yourself haven't had this ingenious idea. There's a lot of people like you out there. I won't in any way be offended if you, too, jump on the band wagon and use this amazingly great idea as to how to make your child that much cuter. In fact, I'll give you my recipe for success as to how you too can have a toothless wonder for 6 wonderful years (because for some reason those darn pediatric dentists won't pull a baby's tooth just for the cuteness factor-they say they need a "reason"-as if only adults are allowed to do cosmetic alterations!). So here it goes:

Take your baby to a disgusting, greasy fast food restaurant such as, oh, I don't know, let's say Burger King.

Let him stand up and walk on the bench at the table.

Distract him so he won't realize, while he's walking backwards, that he's near the edge of the bench.

Allow him to fall off of the bench, break his tooth, and damage the nerve.

Clean up all bleeding and comfort your child, reminding him that a few minutes of pain is worth 6 years of glorious beauty.

Oh, and a most important detail-you MUST do this with your child before they hit the ripe old age of 2 as an anesthesiologist will not put your child under (in order to attempt to salvage the tooth by doing a root canal and placing a cap on it) so the dentist has no choice but to pull the tooth.

So, folks, hurry on over to your local, nastiest, fast food restaurant.

(Pictures to come of the toothless wonder soon...)

Childfull Comments

2009-02-05T20:33:00.000-08:00

I really have been neglecting to give a few 'shout outs' to some people that have really aided in this difficult thing called parenting. I've been blessed to have helpful bystanders at times when I've really needed it most, and I would be ungrateful if I did not publicly thank them for their service.

First, a thank you must go out to the man in Las Vegas who, when he saw that I had two boys, looked at me and said, "wow, you've been busy". It's nice to be recognized for all that it takes to raise children these days....that's what he meant by "busy", right?

And then there's our HOA president. When she realized that I not only had one child, but TWO, she commented, "wow, you must really love children!". Thank you for noticing!

Then there was the time I had to run to Wal-Mart first thing in the morning and a concerned woman took it upon herself to declare to me that my child needed socks on. You know what I really appreciated about her? She recognized the importance of a democracy and took a poll with some other bystanders as to if my child was in need of socks or not and reported back to me once the results were in that, yes, he in fact did need socks.

And then lets not forget the helpful tip from the Airport Security personnel. They were very concerned when my child's face was flushed and reminded me to put sunscreen on him. Thank you, us Oregonians never did done have to use that there stuff.

Oh, and I appreciated the concerned Fry's employee that asked if my child was okay when he was in the middle of a royal tantrum. And when I reassured her that he was fine, she simply stated in disbelief, "Oh, that's just the way he is?!". Well, yes, sometimes, that's just the way he is (as some may have noticed yesterday at the park!).

And last, but definitely not least, I appreciated my fellow flying mate and her assistance with my baby on the way to Oregon. When she recognized that my baby was less than thrilled to be stuck on an airplane, she walked me threw the steps to make his flight a little more enjoyable..."Um, does he need his diaper changed, because sometimes that helps." "Nope, he doesn't." "Is he hungry?" "No, he just doesn't like flying." "How long until we get there?" "About an hour." "An hour?! Cursidy, curse, curse, curse."

Sometimes, when it's a rough day with my children, and I'm just not sure what to do next, I go out in public and hope that someone will be available to give me some much needed advice.

Disclaimer: Just for the record, comments such as this do NOT offend me in any way. I only find them comical in nature and so I thought I would share. And, for the record, some days I really could use some help!

Don't Say I Never Did Anything For You

2009-02-02T21:25:00.001-08:00

Well, I've been thinking a lot about how blessed I am to have such great family and friends. Seriously, you guys are amazing. So, I decided it was time to show you my appreciation. So, in honor of all of my friends and family, I pulled some (a lot) of strings, and got Denny's to agree to give you a FREE grand slam breakfast tomorrow morning (Tuesday) from 6am-2pm. That's right guys, FREE, no purchase necessary. All you have to do is go in to any Denny's nationwide, and whisper the secret password Kate Is The Best into their left ear while pinching their right bum cheek. This one's on me guys!

Happy Eating!

You Might Be...

2009-01-29T19:42:00.000-08:00

You might be a little too frugal if....

....when your child notices he's the only one without a backpack on his first day of preschool (because his mom's the ONLY one who forgot to buy him one!), instead of asking you to go buy him one, he says maybe he can get one for his birthday or Christmas.

You might not have made the roles clear enough in your home (parent/child) if...

...your child puts you in time out as often as you do him.

You might steal your child's treats a little too often if....

...when he wakes up the next morning and sees that you've eaten almost the entire bag of his Reeses Pieces he just says, "thank you mommy so much for saving me some!".

You might throw away your child's junk (aka toys) too often if...

...when your child uses all of his money to buy a Mr. Potato Head he tells you how special his new toy is to him and asks you if you will please not throw it away.

And for your viewing pleasure, here is suction-cup boy himself...

What else is a little guy suppose to do for fun since his mom won't stop throwing away all of his toys?

2009-01-23T11:07:00.001-08:00

Dear Next-Door Neighbor,

Please do not call Child Protective Services on me. I know you were concerned for my child's welfare when you heard blood-curdling screaming for 30 minutes straight this morning with me threatening in the background and finally sitting on my child in order to get the job finished, but I can promise you that it was just another routine hair cut for my son Izak.

And I'm sure your sense of obligation to call was heightened when you noticed that I left my baby out in the driveway in a stroller sleeping by himself for about 15 minutes. Despite popular belief, rather than watching The Young and the Restless, I was actually cleaning, calming, and comforting my son while both his bum and stomach were exploding at the same time.

If we could please just keep these minor incidents between you and I, I would be much obliged. Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,

Kate

P.S.

I tried my hardest to not get throw-up all over your beautifully landscaped rocks while I was washing down our driveway/rocks from another one of my child's eruptions. I hope this will suffice as a peace offering.

I'm alive!

2009-01-20T08:14:00.000-08:00

Signs that (long distance) running may not be for you:

1. You get super grumpy and mean to your husband every time right before a long distance run.

2. You have to bribe yourself to go running by eating a peanut m&m for every mile you go.

3. Instead of stretching and/or visualizing your performance right before your marathon, you put your make up on.

4. You have to buy yourself cute workout clothes to motivate yourself to go running.

5. You complain as much as your four-year-old does about going running.

6. The most exciting part about running a marathon is so you can stop running so much.

And that is why I now present to you the results of my one AND ONLY marathon....

A picture of me before I was stripped of my innocence to many pants being dropped to do their business in every bush and corner to be found along the way. (Note to self: Next time you're wondering why someone randomly ran over to a bush RIGHT NEXT TO THE STREET, don't watch to find out)

Can we just start this thing so I'm not so stinkin' cold?!

13.1 miles, half way done! (Click on this picture to see the guy next to me-he ran like that the WHOLE way (I think I heard him saying something about stuff getting all over his shoes while he was doing something behind a bush-whatever that meant!))

Unfortunately, I have no proof that I finished the marathon (Dave was so excited about me finishing-he left the camera in the car for that part!)...so, I guess you'll just have to take my word for it...and that I did the infamous ballerina jump, which I did. And you all would've been proud. It was a sweet finish. I'm sorry to disappoint some of you, but unfortunately, I couldn't quite make my goal of 5 hours. I caved to temptation and I sped up just a little bit. I hope you will all still be proud of me despite my obvious sign of weakness.

But in all seriousness, it was great. It went as well as I could've hoped for. And thank you to everyone that was so sweet and supportive of me. I have some really amazing friends and family. You all made me feel so loved by sending and giving me cards, GU packs, good luck phone calls, a VERY SWEET good luck bag of goodies, facebook well wishes, and LONG HOURS of driving in a car from California and Utah. THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH. But, the greatest sign of love and support has to go to my husband. Dave was SO excited to see me run as much as possible that after he cheered me on at mile 4 he quickly got in the car, drove for about 10 minutes, jumped out, and ran to the next spot to cheer me on. He patiently waited for 15 minutes to cheer me on and didn't even get frustrated when I was nowhere in sight. And then he looked down the street and wondered why all the spectators looked familiar. He then realized he was 2 blocks down from where he had last faithfully cheered me on....thank you Dave for cheering me on every chance you got!!

5 LOOONG Hours

2009-01-17T14:11:00.001-08:00

So I went this morning to pick up my number and timing chip.

I wasn't prepared for it.

I walked into the Phoenix Convention Center and then it hit me.

Out of nowhere I started to cry.

I just couldn't believe that I am about to accomplish a huge life goal for myself.

It was a surreal moment.

And then I was rescued.

My children saved me from public humiliation.

I mean, seriously, who cries when they pick up their number?

So, being concerned children for my welfare, they decided to distract me.

By fighting.

And running wildly among thousands of people.

And falling head first out of the stroller.

And screaming.

And then all I cared about was finding the closest exit.

And putting my children into their 5-point straight jackets so there would be no more fighting, falling, and running.

But, I'll have 5 hours tomorrow to cry.

I had planned on only 3 hours, but have reevaluated my goal and will now be shooting for 5 hours instead.

I mean, think about it, there will be THOUSANDS of people finishing in a measly 3 hours, but only HUNDREDS finishing in 5 hours.

That obviously can only mean one thing.

Some people can only hack it for 3 hours, while I can go on and on and on for another 2 hours.

Now THAT is real talent.

And you know what they say, if you've got it, flaunt it.

With a ballerina jump/pose while crossing the finish line.

Ready or Not, Here I Go

2009-01-08T20:03:00.000-08:00

You know the only thing more unsmarter than someone who willing chooses to run 26.2 miles? Someone who willing chooses to PAY $100 to run 26.2 miles. Seriously. Up until a few days ago I considered myself pretty savvy and frugal when it came to money. No longer can I claim to be either one of those. I figured it out and I'm paying $1 for every 1/4 mile I run. I might as well just throw out $4 at every mile, then I bet I'd get a lot of people cheering for me. But, I'm officially in the "very unsmart" category now and will be running my first (and heaven help me-ONLY) marathon in 1 1/2 weeks. I'm starting to get progressively more and more nervous as it draws closer. Especially when I realized I almost forgot to prepare for THE most important part of the race...the FINISH. I mean, think about it, that's when the most people will be watching me, right? And pictures, oh, pictures will be taken so that I can have PROOF that I'm incredibly unsmart (I know, I know, as if I need proof for that!), therefore I have to look my best. So as I was running the other day, I started to practice a few different finishing strategies (that's when you know you run slow-you have no problem jumping and throwing your arms randomly in the air while running). I'm sure I looked awesome. So, here's the deal. Please help me decide how I should finish this beast. I set up a poll on the side of my blog so you can vote for how I should finish the race. Whichever one has the most votes is the one I'll do...thanks for humoring me.

The "I'm so glad I'm never doing that again" pose

The "If you ran as slow as I do, you'd have this much energy left too" pose

The "My legs are so cramped, I can't straighten them" pose

The "My mom made me take ballet when I was little and this is all I learned" pose

Well, get a votin' people, you've only got 1 1/2 weeks!

Multi-Tasking at its Finest

2009-01-06T19:50:00.000-08:00

I was cooking dinner.

Dave was keeping Landon occupied with the infamous air-somersaults.

I was quizzing Dave on muscles.

Dave was flipping the study cards over as my hands were busy/dirty....

I finished dinner.

Dave learned 20 new muscles.

We all ate. And enjoyed.

And that is how Dave will become a doctor without our family starving.

Ho, Ho, Ho

2009-01-01T20:59:00.000-08:00

We're back from Oregon. We had a great time visiting with our family. All 10 of us kids were there, first time in a long time. It was really great. It was so fun to see everyone! Here are a few random pictures from our trip...

Landon LOVED sledding.

Dave didn't mind it too much either

This may be animal cruelty, but I dare you to take a kitty away from an otherwise screaming child. Now THAT is cruelty.

Ever since Ariana was in a car accident, she's always done this weird squatting thing, seriously, every time you turn around this is how she's standing/crouching, I had to catch it on camera.

There's something wrong when your child makes those boots look better than you do.

White Coat Ceremony

2008-12-16T19:43:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been a little while since I last posted. My computer broke and that darn Dave for some reason needs his at school, so I'm computerless. Needless to say, this post is a little overdue....

Dave recently had his white coat ceremony. And it's just as it sounds. He got a white coat. At a ceremony. Who knew that getting a white coat was such a big deal? Well now you and I do. It's apparently your official induction into the health care profession. It was a really nice ceremony. But for Dave, it was extra special. I'll let the pictures portray the transformation for themselves....

Presenting the Old, Boring David Martell....

Notice the darkness that surrounded the old David Martell

And the light that encompasses the New & Improved David MITCHELL

In honor of the new & improved student doctor David Mitchell, I thought it only appropriate to articulate what this change has brought into David's life and the new skills he has acquired...

A dancer

A musician

A beautician

Amazing super-human strength (what, you think just anyone can hang from a tree like that?)

And last, but DEFINITELY not least, he can now slip in and out of Hook character at the drop of a hat

Friendships

2008-12-04T22:41:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been hearing a lot of people talk about how it's difficult to make friends when you move to new places. I just don't get that. We moved to Arizona about 6 months ago and it really hasn't been hard at all. I guess I just don't understand why people have that hard of a time making friends. It seems pretty simple to me. So, since it apparently seems to be harder for others than for me, I'll share my good fortune and pass along my infinite wisdom on the subject (free of charge):

Step 1: Have a Baby
Step 2: Make sure the Baby you have is really cute
Step 3: Direct that Baby in the direction of those with whom you would like to become BFFs
Step 4: Allow your Baby a few minutes to work his magic on your soon-to-be BFFs
Step 5: Casually walk over to your Baby and unsuspecting victim and nonchalantly begin to lure them into conversation with you.
Step 6: If they appear to be bored with the topic of conversation, offer to allow them to hold said Baby and talk about the Baby until you have their full attention once more
Step 7: Repeat steps 3-6 as often as needed to gain the friendships of your new BFFs

If by chance you are unable/unwilling to properly execute Steps 1&2 I will allow you to borrow this Baby (for a nominal fee) as he has proven himself very capable of the task at hand.

Amazing House Guests

2008-12-01T21:44:00.000-08:00

So our thanksgiving was fabulous. We had a lot of great family here who understood my incapacity to properly cook a tasteful Thanksgiving dinner, so they did what any good-hoping-to-eat-some-edible-food people would do-they cooked it themselves. They were wonderful!!! It was great and I'm hoping to lure them all back here again next year because it was SO much fun and they were such great cooks (not to mention the amazing cleaner-uppers).

The downfall was the HUGE messes to clean up....

I mean, seriously, was it too much to ask just one of our guests to be responsible to watch our child (and clothe him)?

And really, how did it go unnoticed that our children weren't really sleeping at all?

So, if our lovely guests could please watch our children a little more attentively next time, that would be just great...

How was your Thanksgiving?

Super Heroes

2008-11-13T20:49:00.000-08:00

Just a few short thoughts for tonight...

Super heroes are great, aren't they? There have been a few super heroes in my life...

My dad has always been a super hero of mine. He always saw the good in me, and made sure to remind me of it.

During my teenage years, there was an older man in our ward. Every time he saw me he would call me "Beautiful" and give me a hug. He made me feel beautiful.

My husband who makes me feel beautiful now.

My mission companions who loved me despite my shortcomings, my many, many shortcomings.

My siblings who always accept and love me the way I am.

Speaking of super heroes, check out these bad boys....

(Pay no attention to the clothe-less child, this was in between changing of the clothes-for the millioneth time that day)

Today my friend Shelly was kind enough to patiently help me make some "super hero" capes for my boys. Izak insisted his be red like Superman and Landon's be black like Batman. I'm excited to make them their masks to go with it...

I love Super Heroes!

My Heart was Broken...

2008-11-06T13:14:00.000-08:00

...for the little six year old boy that was being verbally abused in the store. Who was told that his parents' hoped his leg was broken. Who was berated over and over for a wrong doing.
My Heart was Angered...
...for the little boy when he was physically harmed and had a mark on his face five minutes later to show for it.
My Heart was Sad...
....when I saw the person standing right next to him turn around and face the other direction until the scene was over.

My Heart was Pounding...
...when I confronted the man and woman and while trying to empathize with the frustrations that sometimes come with children, also explaining to them at the same time that it is never okay to abuse your child. That abuse is against the law.
My Heart was Outraged...
...when the man replied by telling me that the boy got what he deserved. And then the man expounded on that by saying he would've killed him if they hadn't have been in the store.
My Heart was Racing...
...when the couple started verbally attacking me with profanity, screaming, and very close proximity to my face.

And then my heart was shocked...
...when a lady came up and told me that I wasn't setting a good example for my children by causing the scene. And then the man that helped me out with my groceries informed me that I shouldn't have handled it in such a way.

And I pondered this in my heart all the way home and all afternoon...how it was that I was treated as if I had caused a scene. How the employees quickly rushed me out of the store so as to not cause anymore disturbance. How I was told that I had done wrong. How I was made to feel embarassed for my actions.

But I am not embarassed. And as long as the safety of me or my children are not in jeopardy, I will continue to give voice to those children that don't have a voice. I will not allow the fear of others' actions to dictate my actions.

It's All About the Heart

2008-10-31T14:07:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I came across this blog. I read a couple of entries. Apparently this blog was gaining popularity fast and had over 6,000 hits a day. The other day, the author of the blog came forward and admitted that it was all fictional. Some people were really angry. I personally thought it was hilarious and was so impressed she pulled it off. But it got me thinking...that's kind of like how life is sometimes. We can paint any kind of picture we want for others to see. And if we're good enough actors, we can pull it off. And some people do. I saw it on a number of occasions growing up.
This brought me to another question...what's the difference between seeing the glass half full (and thus generally being upbeat and happy)and putting up of a front of how we want people to see us? I thought about this a lot the other day. And then I knew the answer. It's what is in our hearts. It's who we are when no one is looking. If we're choosing to give more weight to the good than the bad, then we're going to feel that whether anyone's watching or not. But if we're simply putting on a show in hopes others will see us as something we may not be, then we'll breathe a sigh of relief once the door is shut.

So, just to clear the air...my children are NOT just pretending. They really are perfect. All.The.Time. What?! You don't believe me?! Fine. See for yourself.

This is what my children are doing 24/7 at home. Come on by and see for yourself. (Um, but before you come by, can you just call and give us an hour's notice so I can clean the house...and bathe my boys...and get them looking cute...and bribe/threaten (one of) them to be nice to each other...and do my make up...and get cute clothes on...)
Yea, cause, around here, we're all about what's in the heart.

Family Dinner, What's That?

2008-10-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

Tonight was one of those nights where I was deciding between making two different things for dinner. I decided on the spinach/rice casserole.

Izak said he wasn't hungry and wouldn't touch it.
Landon was screaming because his teeth hurt.
Dave doesn't like spinach (who knew?).
So I am left. Eating the spinach casserole all alone.

I should have gone with my first idea.
Sugar cookies.
Something tells me they would've gone over much better.

One Quarter Down (Almost), A Lot More to Go

2008-10-28T13:40:00.000-07:00

In two weeks, Dave will complete his first quarter. You know, after working so hard for a common goal for over 5 years, it feels so good to be where we're at. I feel like we've accomplished SO much just to get here. I'm not sure if it's because we worked so hard and had to overcome so much to get to where we are today, but so far, medical school has been good to us. Dave brings home amazing grades every week. We have a system that is working for us. Dave is a great support to me and tries to take care of the kids in the time he has available so that I get time to do stuff for me. I can do this. We can do this. Four years of this is doable. It feels great to know that.
Before we came here we heard a lot of negativity regarding medical school and the effects it has on marriages/families. It's nice to be here, and living it, and to realize that it can be done. Just like anything else, if we really want it, it's going to take work. And working together. It can be done. We will do it. And I'm grateful for the last 5+ years and how much they prepared us for this. Compared to some previous struggles, I welcome this one. This struggle is an exciting one. One where I see Dave accomplishing his dream day by day, week by week. A dream he's had for a long time. It's exciting. And I love to be a part of it. I'm so proud of Dave already.

And here's the man of the hour in all his glory...

13 Down, 13 To Go

2008-10-25T20:59:00.001-07:00

So, today I ran my first 1/2 marathon race. I figured pictures would depict how I felt better than I could put into words...
You'll have to excuse the self-portraits, I had to go alone to the race since Dave had another full day of studying.

So naive as to what awaited....

Okay, so it wasn't quite that bad....more like....

Yea. So, it was pretty hard. I'm still not sure how I'm going to manage twice that distance. But, I got my time goal, so I was REALLY excited about that....
Special thanks must go out to the following individuals for helping me achieve my goal today:
The YMCA director who allowed this poor (literally) girl to register and run despite the inability to pay the entrance fee.
My husband who wrestled the boys for 3 hours before handing them off to the next victim.
My friends, Dave and Shelly, for watching the boys until I got back and not kicking me out of their home despite my horrendous stench.
My friend Kathleen who came and cheered for me at the finish line and gave me a great congratulations gift!

On another note, today I discovered the key to keeping your kids from crying. And it only cost me $4 for this amazingly cry-free day with my 3-year-old...

He had already taken his nap by now, so the paint was smeared.

Yep. Anytime Izak would start to cry, I'd remind him that if he cries his paint would smear. Worked like a charm. Everytime. Sad to see the paint go tonight. Until tomorrow. I will be painting his face everyday from now on. The best $4 I ever spent.

And last of all (I promise, this post will end. Maybe.)...the boys and I (Dave not included-in fact, he's still studiously studying as I type this) went to the city halloween party tonight. It was cute to take them. They had lots of fun things... we went trick-or-treating, went to the dragons' petting zoo (they had snakes, cockroaches (which I did NOT touch-too many bad memories from Brazil), bearded dragons, and tarantulas), and a puppet show. It was really cute.

It was a good day. How was yours?

I'm the victim here, I'm the victim

2008-10-23T22:43:00.000-07:00

So the other day I had one of those moments with my child, you know, the kind where you wish you could pretend they weren't your own (or is that just me?)...we were walking out of a grocery store and my child (who will remain nameless to keep his pride intact) began to have the biggest melt down ever. Flailing arms, screaming, kicking, biting. You name it. He was all over it. Literally. The only thing I could do was to restrain him (I knew my proper restraint training as a social worker would come in handy sometime!). As people were walking by I was getting the evil eye. I could see the wheels in their minds turning (How dare that mom...that poor little boy....look at his cute little brown eyes, if only he had a chance with a good mom...why i outta...) I mean, look at this kid, could he really be capable of such behaviors?

Don't be fooled by that cute, adorable face you see with those big, brown eyes. Because, truth be told, the shirt says it all...

So, we started a behavior chart for the little monster. He earns stickers for different good behaviors throughout the day. Once he earns enough stickers to get to the star, he earns a prize. I explained the rules of the behavior chart to him. He then clarified by asking, "So, once I get all the way to the star, I get a prize, right?". I told him that was right. So, take a look at where he put the next two stickers...

My little monster is very smart. In fact, whenever I am sick, he always knows how to help me feel better.
Me:Izak, I feel sick.
Izak: Well then, go poop.

It's as simple as that people.

And now you see why I keep my little monster around. And you all thought it was just because he is so cute and charming.

Sometimes Life is Hard

2008-10-17T13:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, a few comments before you read this post...I'm posting this really late (sorry it didn't get posted yesterday, I had a volleyball game and didn't get to it after I got home) so if I don't make a whole lot of sense, at least I have an excuse this time! Also, in case any of you are worried, I am not writing this post because things are especially difficult at the moment, something someone said to me the other day triggered this thought and I was interested to hear all of your thoughts on the subject at hand...

Sometimes life is hard. Why does it seem that we are sometimes afraid to admit this? I know I've done it. I WANT to appear as if I've got it all together. I WANT to appear as if I have the most perfect family ever. I want people to see me in this shining light. But the reality is, that sometimes I'm not all put together. Sometimes I'd be embarrassed if someone saw me on my bad days or heard the voice or words I sometimes use when I'm at my worst. Sometimes I don't have the most perfect family ever. Sometimes there is absolutely no light shining around me. Sometimes life is hard.

I recently read on a friend's blog about how she and her husband were celebrating their 3 year anniversary. She commented that it had been a hard 3 years. There were no real details into why it was challenging, just that it was hard. She made sure to state that just because it was hard, doesn't mean that it wasn't worth it or that she doesn't love her spouse. I found her post refreshing. Refreshing to know that sometimes other people struggle just like me. Maybe not in the same way. But that others have struggles too. Because sometimes life is hard.

I think others, like me, sometimes fall into this trap of wanting to appear as if everything is perfect. Why is that? Why is it that we (Disclaimer: By saying "we" I am in no way including YOU personally as I don't know if you do this as well, I am simply saying "we" to include those of us who fall into this category as I am well aware that some of you do not do this, to which I am grateful to learn from your example!) have such a desire to appear as if we've got everything made? Why is it that we are afraid to admit that sometimes things are hard? Is it how we were raised that instills this desire inside us? Is it that we misconstrue what we are taught in our religion to think we are told we have to be perfect now? Is it society that tells us to answer "good" anytime we're asked how we are doing, even if it couldn't be further from the truth? And where is the balance between being a constant complainer to anyone and everyone vs. being a friend that others know they can turn to because we've allowed others to see that we too struggle at times? Because the truth is, sometimes life is hard.

This is something that I've been striving to work on; being more honest with how my life really is. I feel this is important. As I think about the major struggles I have gone through in my life, I can almost always pinpoint one (or a few) person that was significant in supporting me through those trials. Not that anyone could fight my battles for me, or that I was asking them to, but because they were willing to share their struggles with me, which happened to be similar to the ones that I was currently passing through, it gave me a sense of hope that I too could overcome my present challenge just as they had. And how grateful I am to those that have helped me with their support, friendship, encouragement, and love during those times. What a special place they hold in my heart. And how I hope to be that somebody to others. Because I strongly believe that we are placed in one another's lives to help each other at different times. To give hope to others when they no longer can see that hope. And to receive that hope from others when we no longer see it. Because the truth is, sometimes life is hard.

But life becomes a little bit easier when we're willing to share one another's burdens.

All I Want for Christmas Is...

2008-10-13T15:35:00.000-07:00

Izak: Mommy, can I have a pony for Christmas?
Me: No, because you know the people that are letting us borrow their house? Well, they said we can't have any animals in their house because it'll get the house all dirty.
Izak: Well, I'll just get a really little pony that can fit in my hand so that way I can hold it all day and it won't get the house dirty.
Me: Izak, even little, little ponies are a lot bigger than you.
Izak: They are?!! Well then, how can they be put in a box and wrapped for Christmas?

Danya and Alex (Dave's twin sister and her husband) were kind enough to come visit us this past weekend. It was a lot of fun. They even took us to the state fair where we had the privilege of dining on the BIGGEST corn dogs I've ever seen, I love corn dogs. It was great....

Danya also made Izak promise that he will ask for a pony every year for Christmas.

Izak always remembers his promises. Yea, thanks Danya.

(This picture was taken after I had already eaten half the corn dog, seriously.)

Fairs are the best...Izak loved the animals (okay, none are in this picture because instead of taking a picture of us in front of some BORING animals, I REALLY wanted a picture in front of the cute little barn display, of course!)

One Talent Wonder

2008-10-09T22:04:00.000-07:00

I've been blessed to know some amazing people. I first really started noticing this while serving an LDS mission in Brazil. I served with a lot of amazing women that changed my life forever.
I continue to be astounded by those with whom I come into contact. The more I get to know each one, the more impressed and humbled I am by their many strengths. If I allow myself, I start to feel a twinge of sadness that I am not quite up to par with these ladies, and it makes me stop and wonder how it was decided as to how many strengths and talents we would each be given. Which in turn reminds me of the parable found in Matthew 25:15-28 where it talks about how each person is given a different amount of talents and based on the talents we receive, there are certain requirements attached.
And then I start to not mind so much being one of the ones that may not have as many talents as another, because, just imagine, if I had more talents, would I really have time to blog (Disclaimer: There are many blogs out there that are beneficial and helpful and thus a great use of your/my time, this one just doesn't happen to be one of those) or do the other very important things with which I occupy my time? In fact, all you many talented women (or men, if any actually read this...) out there, do you really think you should be reading this right now? I'm pretty sure you've got some talents to be developing.
So, yea, I think I'm okay with my one talent and I'll just continue to relish in the goodness of the many talented people with whom I am privileged to associate...
So, here's to the One Talent Wonder...

Just try to tell me that face doesn't scream TALENT (Click on picture to see the real talent in action)!

Livin' the Dream

2008-10-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

You ask how I am, do you?
All I can say is, I'm livin' the dream.

Don't ask me what the dream is that I'm livin', because I have no clue.
The other day I asked a friend with whom I have not spoken in a couple of years how he was doing, and this was the answer I received. He's living the dream.

What is this dream that people talk of?

Is it waking up at 6am to two onery little boys?
Is it dragging your child out of his friend's house in the midst of a royal tantrum?
Is it getting snot wiped all over your clothes after you've just gotten ready for the day?
Is it asking your child to stop steam rolling your one-year-old for the upteenth time?

If it is, well then, today, I was Livin' the Dream. That's right. Read it and weep.

And here's who I have to thank for the aforementioned Dream Livin'

And I wouldn't change a thing.

(Except maybe the 6am wake up call...and the tantrum throwing...and the snot wiping...and the steam rolling...but those boys, now those boys are keepers!)

How about you, when have you "Lived the Dream"?

The First Incision

2008-09-28T15:29:00.000-07:00

Greetings digital blogging world. I have decided to make my first official post. As many of you are well aware I have recently started medical school. So far it is every bit as demanding as I imagined it. At the same time it is very exciting and I love learning about the various subjects that I am studying. Medical school holds a lot of surprises and many unforeseen events. In fact something very interesting happened to me just the other day, I was called into a room to make my very first incision with a scalpel into a human body. It was quite the experience. First I put on my scrubs and gloves.

Then I walked into the room took the scalpel and examined the body. I don't remember what was going on inside of my head at the time, but for those of you who know how I get squeamish at the site of blood you won't be surprised to hear that it was probably something like this "please don't pass out, please don't pass out, please don't pass out". Then I made my first cut into a human body. It was at that point that I realized that cutting open a cadaver really was not as bad as I thought it would be. I think it may have something to do with the training that I receive as an officer in the US army. We are taught to not let these kinds of things bother us. So we continued to open up the back of the body until we found the spine. I have included a picture for those of you who have never dissected a cadaver before.

After we found the spine we were given a bone saw to cut open the spine so that we could expose the spinal cord inside. Once we made our cuts along the spine we were given a hammer and some chisels to complete the job. We had to chisel our way into the bone ( for those of you who like eating crab and lobster you might want to skip this part) and break it apart piece by piece, it was almost like breaking crab legs or lobster claws to expose the meat. We had to break the bones and chisel it so that we could rip pieces of it off to expose the spinal chord.

If there is one thing to be said of medical school it's that it is not dull. There is always something to be done. I really am enjoying it a lot. I also wanted to thank all of you who are supporting my wife during this time by posting on your blogs or calling here on the phone because it lets her socialize with people who are over the age of three, seeing as how I am gone for 12 hours a day and then I come home and study at night. So all of you bloggers I take back everything that I ever said about it, and keep up the good work.

Thought Full Thursday

2008-09-25T13:47:00.000-07:00

So the other day I was reading an article that was talking about legacies. It asked what type of legacy we will leave our children, whether it be the children we now have or the ones we will one day have. It made me stop and ponder on what legacies I want to leave my children. I wrote down in my journal the legacies I hope to leave my children and how I will achieve this. The legacies I wish to leave my children are simple:

1. I want them to know that they are loved.
2. I want them to know that they are special.
3. I want them to know there is a Father in Heaven that loves them and a Savior that suffered and died for any mistakes they will ever make or any hardships through which they will pass.
4. I want them to know that the gospel of Jesus Christ will bring them more happiness and peace than anything else ever could.

If I leave these legacies for my children, I will have succeeded as a parent. And if I leave these legacies for my children, how much better prepared will they be to go out and face the world than was I. It took me a long time to realize that I am loved. That I am special. And how vitally significant this knowledge is. It shapes my decisions every day of my life. I wonder what decisions I might have made differently had I known this years before (I am a slow learner). But how grateful I am to have this knowledge now. And how I hope to help my children have this knowledge at a much younger age than I so they can accomplish whatever they dream of accomplishing.

How about you...what legacies do you hope to leave your children (whether present or future)? What knowledge do you now have that you wished you had at an earlier stage in life?

Thought Full Thursdays

2008-09-18T20:56:00.001-07:00

So, I was thinking that I'm going to start a new kind of post every week. On Thursdays I will post some of my random, disorganized thoughts. I know you may be wondering if I really have enough deep thoughts to post every week. I am too. I guess we'll see. But here is today's day full of thought (I would love any additional insight or thoughts you may have as well)......
As some of you may know, this last year has been a rough year. I'd venture to say, the hardest year of my life up until this point. But it has been such a good year in so many ways. I have learned and been reminded of things that I hope I will never forget again.
One of the most important things that I was reminded of through the course of this last year is the power each of us has to be the deciders of our own destinies. It is incredibly empowering to know that we choose who we will become. We decide if we will be happy. This in no way means we will always be happy. This means that when we are not happy, we have the power to make decisions to change our situation. I learned this a long time ago. I remember coming to a point in my life when I realized that I had been victim to different circumstances. I was wronged. I was angry. And I had every right to be angry. And then I realized that I had the power to choose whether I would continue to be a victim to the injustices dealt to me or if I would choose to allow those wrongs to mold me into an even better person than I was before I was victimized. That realization was incredibly empowering.
When life wasn't going my way last year, I forgot this incredibly important piece of information. I felt depressed at the thought that I was yet again a victim and there was nothing that I could do about it. Being a victim is hard. Feeling powerless is even harder, it's incredibly depressing. And then I remembered. I remembered that I was the one with the power to change what I did not like. That no one had enough power over me to take that away from me. And I felt a sense of hope and newness once again. I took action. Action is so empowering. And I felt myself come to life again.
Sometimes it's incredibly hard to have to acknowledge that no matter our circumstance, we ALWAYS have a choice. Once we admit to ourselves we have a choice, we can no longer blame anyone else for our circumstances because we then realize that we have the opportunity to better our situation. And sometimes it's easier to continue to be the victim than to make that hard choice. But that choice is the most empowering experience and realization. And it fills my life with hope. Knowing that no matter what may come in my life, I can ALWAYS choose to do something about it. To better my life. To create my own happiness.
And I will do this.
And, for the record, I never imagined how happy I would be today in comparison to how I felt a year ago. My life is in no way perfect, but I never thought that my life would be where it is today. I wouldn't trade this last year for anything. Action is empowering.

And So It Begins

2008-09-10T16:45:00.000-07:00

So, I've decided to put into action my goal to "one day" run a marathon. I'm now training to run a marathon on Jan. 3rd just outside of Las Vegas (so Jenny and Betsy, I sure do hope to see you guys while I'm there!!). In any case, I've only been training for a couple of weeks now, but so far, so good.
Or as good as it can be considering I have to train the whole time while pushing both Izak and Landon. And let me tell you, more than the physical pushing of the two is the constant mediating between them. But, the other day, I had a non-mediation run with the boys and I swear I ran 5 minutes/mile faster!

Let me give you a little glimpse into how it is running with Izak and Landon....

Pant, Pant, "Izak, keep good space", Pant, Pant, "Izak, you need to keep good space", Pant, Pant, "Izak if you keep good space we can go swimming (or to the park or watch a movie or get a cookie....) when we get home", Pant, Pant, "Izak, remember you're trying to earn your reward", Pant, Pant, "Izak, if you don't stop pushing (or touching or smashing or hitting) Landon you're going to have to have a time out when we get home", Pant, Pant, "Izak, stop touching Landon right now" (In not the most pleasant voice ever).

Times that by 100 and you've got the idea. Seriously. But we've got to do something while Dave is at school for 12 hours a day, right?

My Nose Is Growing

2008-08-31T17:44:00.001-07:00

I've never understood those parents that lie to their children. You know, like about Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, Easter Bunny, stuff like that...
So a couple of weeks ago Dave taught Izak that if he yells "Alicazip" it will open/close the garage door. So anytime we're going somewhere now, Izak will yell "Alicazip" and the garage door magically opens/closes. Well, the other day I was in the kitchen and I heard Izak in the garage yelling "Alicazip" over and over again. Each time Izak yelled "Alicazip" he got louder and louder trying to convince that door to close. A few minutes later, Izak finally came in with a confused look of defeat on his little face. He explained to me that he had been yelling "Alicazip" to close the garage door but it wouldn't close and inquired as to why it wasn't working. So, I told him the truth.
He OBVIOUSLY wasn't yelling loud enough.

Battered Brother Syndrome

2008-08-30T09:16:00.000-07:00

I'm afraid Landon has Battered Brother Syndrome (BBS in the DSM-IV for all you LCSWs out there). Izak knocks him around time after time, but Landon just keeps going back to him. For example, this morning Izak kicked him so he was sent to his room for time out. Within 30 seconds Landon had crawled over to Izak's closed door and was knocking on it to have Izak let him in the room. Like I said, Battered Brother Syndrome.

Nomads No More

2008-08-05T20:22:00.000-07:00

After being homeless for way too long, we have finally settled into our new home. We're super excited about our new house as it has many features that we have never before experienced. Here are some of the highlights of our new home, just to name a few:
1. 2 car garage
2. a fenced back yard
3. a walk in closet
4. bathrooms INSIDE the home
5. washer/dryer
6. running water

The list could go on, but you get the picture...speaking of pictures, here are a few (okay, a lot-so you don't have to check them out if you don't want to as I'm sure we're more excited about our new home than you are-so we won't be offended)...

Don't be fooled, it's only clean because of my lack of cooking abilities

You know you've never had a dining room table when your 3-year-old says you're having a party every time you eat at the table instead of the counter

Dave's throne

Landon's not even sleeping in the bottom bunk yet, but has already fallen off more times than I can count

Spare bedroom for when YOU come to visit us!

Where Dave will learn how to become a doctor

Our dresser weighs 400 lbs alone-no joke!

Our couches passed the test-Dave's mom sat on them instead of the floor!

Monkey bathroom for the monkey boys

Our patio (in the backyard)-Dave's perfected the art of grilling

Izak and Dave's babysitter

Do It Or Else...

2008-07-31T21:51:00.000-07:00

You'd think I'd be a posting fool with no job and a husband home to help all the time, but apparently instead I'm just a slacker...I promise I'm going to post an update of our lives here in the sweltering heat of AZ with pictures of our new place later this week, but figured I need a little motivation to post, so here it is, unless I get 10 responses to this post, I'm throwing in the towel, writing this blogging thing off, and turning my back on the world, that's right, you heard me, now get a postin'!

Here are the directions....

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I have together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember...

Well, what are you waiting for? Do you really want me to stop blogging? I mean, what would you do with all your free time if you didn't have this AMAZINGLY interesting blog to read? Seriously, start writing!

And the misery continues...

2008-07-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking lately about the lame situation the Sargeant put us in, and decided that it would be important to document how much he has really messed up this time. And of course, everyone knows, there's no better documentation than pictures. So, here are a few pictures that show just how much we continue to suffer due to that dang Sargeant:

Izak and Landon being forced to play at the pool with their cousins Mara, Asher, & Eden

Child labor laws being broken-poor Izak had to help Papa drive the tractor for hours

Don't be fooled by the smiles in this one-anyone that knows my dad knows that just having to spend time with him is pure TORTURE

My Grandma & Grandpa Lloyd said if we didn't visit them, they'd take us out of their inheritance

Dave's Grandma & Grandpa Mellot shoved our favorite candy down our throats while we were there

Unfortunately, I did not have my camera available for these other incidents, but they were just as traumatizing as the other recorded events:
*Visited my long lost best friend (we were best friends from 6th grade through my senior year of high school)
*Visited Jenna and Kevin in Boise and had to eat a bunch of good food and play fun games
*Had no choice but to eat my mom's amazing cooking morning and night

That Sargeant picked the wrong people to mess with!

Moping Around with Nothing To Do

2008-06-18T21:37:00.001-07:00

So, for those who don't know, the lovely Sargeant with whom we've had the privilege to work, once again decided to play a trick on our little family. Yep, that's right, Dave did not end up going to Officer Training. This means that we are homeless and incomeless (good word isn't it?!) for quite a while. So, in true Martell fashion, we've been mourning our awful situation as we hope you will for us too. We've been having an awful time, cursing the name of the Sargeant and living in a cardboard box. See for yourselves...

Bryce Canyon

Zion National Park

We decided to torture ourselves by going to Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, St. George, Las Vegas (where we got to meet up with one of my favorite people ever-Betsy!), Park City, floating down the Provo River, and we'll be leaving for Oregon on Friday. As you can tell, our lives have been RUINED by that dang Sargeant!

The Benefits of having a Tubby Tummy Baby

2008-05-30T20:26:00.000-07:00

3. His falls are always cushioned.
2. Even if your baby's crying and "acting" as if he's hungry, you know he can go at least a few more hours off of his "food storage" inside that tubby tummy.
1. And here's the #1 reason...

That's right people. Eat your hearts out. When my child is bored, all I have to do is take his clothes off and he can play with his fat for hours. Don't you wish your baby was fat like mine...

You May Be Moving Too Often If...

2008-05-30T20:15:00.001-07:00

1. You've moved more times than the years you've been married.
2. When your child talks about his "old house" you have to ask him to specify which one.
3. Your decisions as to which products to buy at the grocery store are determined by plastic vs. glass so they won't break in your next move.
4. When your child can't find his toy, he asks if you packed it.
5. When your child doesn't want to pick up his toys, he asks you to pack them.

Man Scout and Nomads

2008-05-16T22:22:00.000-07:00

Top 5 Reasons to go to Texas with Dave:
5. No cooking!
4. Being close to extended family that I don't get to see that often.
3. Experience a new place with lots of neat history.
1. No cleaning toilets!
I'm just kidding, that's not the #1 reason-didn't you notice I skipped #2? I can't believe you fell for that!
1. Get to be with Dave!!!

Top 5 Reasons I won't be going with Dave to Texas:
5. I like to torture myself by taking care of 2 little boys by myself for 45 days.
4. I'd rather clean toilets and cook.
3. Payson, Utah is much more exciting than San Antonio, Texas.
2. I like to be homeless for 2 months with 2 little boys.
1. The lovely Sargeant with whom we work misinformed us and families actually CAN'T go to officer training with their spouses!

Yep, it's true. As of June 6th, I and the boys will be homeless. Since we found out 2days ago about the little misinformation (is that a word?) we were given, it is too late to get my job back along with our apartment. We have already given our notice and they've already started the hiring process for our job, so there's no turning back. Nomads we will be.
Dave's getting excited to become a man scout. That is the name I've given him. The other night we were talking and he was reading through what he will be learning at Officer Training and I said to him, "It sounds like Boy Scouts but now you get to play with guns". And we all know that when you get to play with guns that is the sign of true manhood. Man scout he will be.

Down Dog

2008-04-30T22:37:00.000-07:00

It’s true. Dave convinced me. We joined the Yoga class at our gym. Yep. And I lasted two times. He’s still a faithful Yoga class member. I love Dave. I don’t love Yoga. And here’s my good man. Making me proud. With his great Yoga moves.

It Pays To Not Abuse Your Children...and I Love Being Old!

2008-04-20T15:45:00.000-07:00

So, Dave and I participated in a race yesterday against Child Abuse. Whenever I do races, I never pay to enter the race unless it's a worthy cause (I just run it and tell them at the end that I didn't register so I don't mess up the rankings). This race was DEFINITELY for a worthy cause and I was excited to be able to support such an important issue. It made me grateful that Dave and I have discussed this issue at length and came up with alternatives for those times that we feel frustrated with our children (NOT that it EVER happens-but in the event that it ever did...ha,ha) so that we don't turn to violence. Anyways...
The great news is that both Dave and I placed! I placed 3rd overall, but because I'm an oldie, I got first in my division!! I couldn't believe it. (I have to insert here a story about a very cute client with whom I work. For some reason about a month ago we got talking about how I run and that I was going to do this race. Ever since then, every time he saw me he reminded me of how many weeks and days I had until the race. And every time he told me I was going to win. At one point I really tried to explain to him that I'm really not that good, so I probably wouldn't win, but he would not hear of it. I didn't have the heart to tell him I had never actually won a race in my life because he was so sure I was going to win. So, I was so excited to be able to tell him that I did win!) I was also super excited, because I won a $50 gift card to Target. Dave won 3rd in his old men's division and won a $20 gift card to a restaurant. We were super excited about our winnings! Here's a picture of us after our race...

What would you do?

2008-04-14T20:46:00.000-07:00

The past 12 months have been filled with A LOT of challenges. So many, that I'm hoping we've had our fill for the next 12 years-it works that way right? In any case, because of all these challenges, it makes Dave and I even MORE excited than ever to start this next phase in our lives of heading off to medical school. It represents a lot to us, a lot of challenges that we have overcome to get to where we are going. We're extremely excited. And here is the first step towards this next phase in our lives...

For those of you who don't know, Dave was sworn into the Army as a 2nd Lieutenant. This will enable us to attend and complete medical school debt free. Dave is extremely excited about this as he has always wanted to join the army. And I'm excited because you all know how much I love to save money! But here's the question for you all...Dave has to go to Texas for Officer Training Camp for 45 days (from June to July). It appears that he will have NO day offs. They put him up in a hotel and he gets a generous daily allowance for food. So, the boys and I could go with him. It would be hard to be apart for 45 days. It would also be hard to be stuck in a hotel room by myself with two little boys all day, every day (except for the evenings). So, what would you do?

Brothers Who Puke Together, Stick Together

2008-04-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

Don't you hate it when your kids gang up on you? This is how I imagine Izak and Landon's conversation went:

Mission:To remind Mom and Dad who the real bosses are in this house
Izak: Hey Landon, I've been thinking that you and I have been too well behaved lately and mom and dad are beginning to forget who's really in charge. Don't you think so too?
Landon: Uh-huh
Izak: So, I've got a plan to remind them of their place in this family. Want to hear it?
Landon: Uh-huh
Izak: I'm thinking that we should convince mom to let me eat some bright red jello jigglers and then immediately afterwards I'll throw up all over the carpet, that way we'll be sure to stain the carpet so she'll always have a visual reminder of who's in charge. Do you like that idea Landon?
Landon: Uh-huh
Izak: Okay, after that, I'll wait until she cleans it up and then immediatley throw up again on the floor. When she tries to put me to bed, I'll continue to throw up about 5 more times to remind her that I go to bed when I'm good and ready. Then, I'll wait for dad to come home. Cause you know, he's just as much at fault as mom is. I'll let him think he's getting out of it easy, and just as he's peacefully falling asleep, I'll begin throwing up about 10 more times until about 2am. How does that sound Landon?
Landon: Uh-huh
Izak: Okay, listen up Landon because here comes your part. The next afternoon, just when mom and dad are starting to breathe a sigh of relief that I've stopped throwing up, that's where you come into play. You then begin throwing up. Not just anywhere, but in your bed. That way mom and dad have to do more wash-which really cuts them deep since we have no washing machine and dryer. Wait until mom has changed the bedding and then throw up again, to maximize the laundry duty. Then toss in a few more throw ups throughout the rest of the day. Now, I'm counting on you Landon to step up and do your part. Are you up for the task Landon?
Landon: Uh-huh

And this is what Dave and I did to get even with them...

Yep, it's true...Dave and I went to Hawaii. My brother and sister-in-law were kind enough to invite us to go with them and stay in a beach house on the North Shore. We had such a great time. Just a few of the highlights were...going to Pearl Harbor, Sky Diving, Jumping off a 30-feet high rock, going on a "short" hike (and rescuing a pregnant woman!), snorkeling, boogie boarding, going to the Polynesian Culture Center, Sea kayaking, and eating SO MUCH good food!

I'm going to be the best mom a teenage boy could ever have!

2008-03-04T22:10:00.000-08:00

So, I've been thinking recently that I'm not too cut out for being a parent of a 3-year-old boy. There are many reasons for this conclusion, but I'll name just a couple that have recently been brought to my attention.

First reason. I am incapable of playing with Izak. I mean really getting down on the floor and playing with him. This is usually how our conversation goes:
Izak: Mommy, will you play with me?
Me: Sure Izak
Izak: Mommy, come sit on the floor with me
Me: Okay
Izak: Mommy, play with me!
Me: Izak, I am playing with you
Izak: No, mommy, I mean play with me!
Me: Izak, I am playing with you (To which I respond by trying to really get into character of whatever superhero Izak has assigned me to be-which means using some really good superhero voices and starting to attack Izak's superhero because I've noticed that boys really like this fighting thing.)
Izak: No mommy, not like that! (Izak goes running out of the room crying)
And that is usually how our "play" sessions end.

Second reason. I am no good at rough housing. I blame my parents for this one. We were never allowed to rough house in our home, so it is completely foreign and akward to me. But every once in a while when I'm trying super hard to engage with Izak, I will give it my best shot. These conversations generally go like this:
Izak: Mommy, you can't get me
Me: Oh, yes I can (to which Izak responds by jumping on my back)
Izak: Mommy, try and get me
Me: Ouch Izak, you're hurting me. Get off Izak, you're hurting me. Izak stop. (Dave then has to interject here and peel Izak off of my back before I start crying.)
Dave: Izak, you have to be careful with mommy so she doesn't get hurt. (Izak goes running out of the room crying)
And this is usually how our "rough housing" sessions end.

Third reason. The other day I was watching my niece and nephew. Yet again I was trying my best to be the cool mom (and aunt) so I thought I'd win them over by building them a fort. (Let me add here in my defense that this is the first time I can remember ever building a fort.) This is how that conversation went:
Me: Guys, do you want me to build you a fort?
Izak and cousins: Yeah!!!!
Me: Okay, give me a few minutes and it'll be done....(30 minutes later)....
Izak: Can I go in?
Me: Not yet, I'm still trying to figure out how to make the fort. Izak you have to get out or you're going to break it down.
Izak: Can I go in yet?
Me: Not yet Izak, it's almost done, just wait a few more minutes. Izak, you have to get out. Izak, you're breaking the fort!(Izak goes running out of the room crying)

Lets just say that Izak is VERY lucky to have such a great dad that knows how to really play with his 3-year-old boy and here's to hoping that I'll be the best mom a teenage boy could ever have...

Here's a picture of Izak with his cousins, Mara and Asher, in the fort I built for them...(this was the second fort that I built since the first one the kids couldn't even sit under because it was so low to the ground)

Another 10 things...but I'll count it as 20 since it's so stinkin' long!

2008-02-19T21:18:00.000-08:00

12. When I was a teenager I had a thing for behinds.
14. I once grabbed the lead singer's behind from "Better than Ezra".
16. My sister and I were once mooning drunks at a bar across the parking lot from our hotel room. Long story short, a police officer woke up our coach (we were on a cross country trip) and the coach and police officer came to our room...
18. One time during cross country practice, I was pretending to grab our coach's behind and at that exact moment he turned around. Did I mention he was a preacher? He quit coaching girls the next year.
20. So, since the preacher quit, the next year we had a new cross country coach. By the end of the season he cussed my best friend and I out in front of the whole team and told us we were the "cancer" of our team. He quit coaching girls the next year.
22. I ran cross country for 3 years in high school-I use to have the 3rd fastest time in the school history (3 miles in 20 minutes)-but then my little sister blew my time out of the water!
24. I love sports, basically any kind of sports. Raquetball, volleyball, running, biking, triathlons, waterpolo, swimming, softball, etc. Unfortunately, I have had WAY TOO MANY very embarrassing moments doing sports, though I would consider myself a naturally athletic, coordinated person, but maybe that's just what I like to think...
26. Last year I played on a city league softball team through my work. I was running to first base and somehow got my legs tangled up and full on supermanned (is that a word?) it. I literally did a full on face-plant. I didn't even make it all the way to the base, I just layed there on the ground, laughing hysterically. Luckily, I was close enough to the base that the other team didn't realize that I hadn't actually reached the base.
28. A couple of years ago I was on a volleyball team. I hadn't played volleyball since I was a freshman in high school, which was about 5 years. My team was VERY competitive and serious. It was my turn to serve the ball so I threw the ball up in the air and then hit the ball. I forgot a VERY important part in the act of serving. I forgot to take a STEP when I served. My feet got all tangled up and I biffed it face down on the floor. I wasn't ever invited to play on their team again.
30. While at Ricks I decided to try my luck at waterpolo. You can imagine my surprise when I noticed that a guy that my roommates thought was really cute was on the waterpolo team. We were practicing treading water when this "cute" guy started talking to me. I couldn't wait to get home and tell my roommates that I spent the night talking with the boy they thought was so hot. I was imagining how jealous they would be when all of a sudden I heard everyone yelling. I then realized they were all yelling at me. Needless to say, while I was talking to this guy, the team had formed a circle and had started passing weights around the circle that you had to hold above your head and then pass them on. The person next to me was holding them waiting for me to take them. Completely flustered, I quickly grabbed the weights. (Let me insert here that it is fairly easy to just sit there treading water-it's another thing to hold 30 lb weights above your heard while treading water-you have to have your legs going MUCH faster in order to do this-for which I was NOT prepared) Next thing I knew I was at the bottom (of the deep end!) of the pool and the guy that handed me the weights was taking the weights from me, and the "cute" guy was grabbing me around the waist and pulling me back up to the top.

100 things about me...

2008-02-10T19:45:00.000-08:00

Okay, my mind is totally blanking so I'm going to do the good 'ole "100 things about yourself" thing, hope it's not too boring for you all (I'll only do 10 things at a time to spare you a little)...
1. I love food
2. When I was young I was a COMPULSIVE food thief, and I mean compulsive (banned from three stores for it, put on probation twice for it)
3. My second probation officer is what inspired me to look into the field of criminal justice instead of accounting
4. At Ricks, while studying criminal justice, I took a social work class (to fulfill a general requirement) and decided in that very moment that social work was NOT for me
5. I am a social worker
6. When I was growing up, I felt sorry for anyone that had to serve an LDS mission
7. I served an LDS mission in Brazil
8. While serving a mission in Brazil, I had lice for the first 7 months-(I'm an expert at recognizing lice or eggs if you need any help!)
9. I met Dave in Brazil
10.We have two children and they are THE cutest children ever...see for yourselves...

Izak reading to Landon

Our cute 3-year-old Izak

Our happy little baby-Landon 5 months

Proud Parents

2008-02-01T14:16:00.000-08:00

So the other day I had a conversation with a guy I work with that made my day. He was saying what good parents Dave and I are (shh, don't tell him the truth!) and that Izak is so well behaved. He said he and his wife were discussing this and it has made them have more of a desire to have children of their own. It was one of those moments that just makes you feel so good as a parent and so proud of your child. As I shut the door I felt a sense of pride for my child who is so cute, obedient, and well behaved. A second after I shut the door, my well behaved child quickly ran up to me and said "sorry mommy", which is NEVER a good sign. And then I walked into the kitchen to this....

And then into the hallway to this...

Now, don't you all want children?

We love our cute, obedient, well behaved Izak!

Diarrhea Pants

2008-01-21T17:32:00.000-08:00

So, I have been thinking about starting a blog for the past month or so, and since my life has got a little calmer here recently (as some of you may know!), I have decided to go ahead and start one. I was talking to Dave and asking him about how we should do our blog because I didn't want it to be "dorky". He responded by telling me that blogs in general are dorky. He then admitted that he actually had never looked at anyone's blog so he was speaking ignorantly. So, being the loving, sweet, forgiving wife that I am, I thought it only fitting to start our oh-so-dorky blog off by sharing a story with you all about my cute husband....
So the other day we went to the gym. Dave was wiping down the treadmill, as all courteous gym-goers do, when he decided that he had to fart (in all fairness to my mom, she did teach me a more appropriate way of talking about this not so elegant subject, but-I must blame it on the Martell name!) and could not wait until he left the treadmill. So, he quietly let one out and then left to the row directly in front of the treadmills to start on the elliptical machine. About five seconds later he heard a lady directly behind him tell her friend, "That kid just let out a huge fart and then left! (Loud enough to ensure Dave and everyone else within ear shot would hear...) Thanks Mr. Stinky!" At which point Dave heard her friend say, "Wait, where are you going?" To which the lady replied, "To get away from Diarrhea Pants!".

Jesus or Bust!

2008-01-21T17:29:00.001-08:00

So, I have to explain our website address. When I was serving a mission for my church in Brazil, for some reason I use to always say a phrase and then add "or bust!" (I know, I'm a dork). One time, my brazilian companion asked me what "or bust" meant. So I explained to her that it meant it was either that thing or nothing. She then proceeded to say, oh, you mean like, "Jesus or Bust!". Yes, I mean like that....Jesus or Bust!