Murphy Matters

Marvelous Monday!

2012-02-06T17:40:00.000-05:00

We are home.

He is recovering.

I can't stop
starring at him,

rubbing his hair,

continually saying prayers of gratitude and thanksgiving!

Today, so far he's eaten:

candy

yogurt

ice cream

homemade turkey soup

cake

nachos

candy

bacon (more on that in a minute)

and our 100% outdoors cat has spent a great deal of time curled out on him or near him

Yup, I'm a softie!

If he wasn't so big and it wouldn't kill him

I'd spend the day with him cuddled on my lap.

I left him alone for about an hour this morning..

while I picked up my sweet Coates' twin and ran a few errands

(I only called him once to check on him...)

Dr's for a prescription

Dropped off prescription

Picked up Gary's shirts

Grabbed a few things at the grocery store

After a pretty quiet afternoon some dear friends brought our bacon order

while I was in the middle of making dinner.

(It arrived Friday and they generously picked it up and stored it for us)

So in the last couple of hours:

4 pounds: cooked, chopped and frozen

18 pounds: divided into pound or pound and a half packets and frozen

nearly 8 lbs left to process....tomorrow is another day...

Now I think I'll go sit near my cherished, recovering son

While I think of my beloved son, whose's spending his birthday in heaven, again

and wait for my treasured son to arrive home from golf

as I look forward to my angel daughter coming home tomorrow!
Life is good!

We have people

2012-02-02T11:13:00.000-05:00

Sometime during all the Christmas driving Zac began to complain about his back hurting. Truthfully we didn't pay him much attention. As January wore on and he continued to let us know about the pain we started to look into taking him to a Chiropractor. Our every effort was thwarted. Then at a Dr's visit Gar decided to just get our Dr's thought on it. It was his last appointment on a Friday. We were able to schedule an appointment for Zac on Monday. That just doesn't happen here. He was concerned enough after seeing the X-ray to suggest an MRI. Once again we'd been his last appointment of the day.

The next morning before 9 am I received a call letting me know they'd scheduled an MRI for that evening. All day the spirit whispered me that this was serious, but that he would be ok. Fast forward to the MRI results...no tumor. I started breathing again. We were then scheduled to see an Neurosurgeon. I should have realized that was a clue to how serious it was but everyone kept saying...rehab...14 year olds don't' have back surgery. So, I thought that was what the warning was about...so he didn't start track practice and we could limit what he did so he didn't make his back worse.

Fast forward to a week later. Tuesday afternoon Zac and I sat in shock as the surgeon showed us his MRI and explained that he was amazed Zac hadn't already experienced nerve damage due to the ruptured disc pressing on his spinal nerves. The risk of paralysis, permanent nerve damage etc was so great that surgery was really our only option. I felt like I was in a tunnel I could hear and see the dr talking but it seemed far away...

How can my healthy, active, skin and bones 14 year old baby need back surgery? How can I say, Yes? What do I do? My mind was reeling...and then I knew. I knew why I'd received such a clear warning. I knew why we had been moved through dr's and tests so quickly and I knew Heavenly Father had placed us exactly where we should be. I had the ultimate second opinion! So while I was still freaking out inside, I did have peace, as opposite as those sound.

As we were waiting to meet with the surgery nurse I was texting Gary, Mychel and Helena and Steve...my people. From there they reached out to their people and within a couple of hours Gar and I had 3rd, 4th and 5th opinions. It was such a tender mercy to know that surgeons who work with him say he's the best man for the job, to have our Dr say if it were his son he'd do what we are doing, to know that our friend's company will have their best man monitoring Zac's nerve functions in his legs. The list goes on and on.

It is humbling to see the love, time and care those around of have shown as they've done all they can to use their resources to reassure, get us info and comfort us as we prepare for tomorrow morning. No matter when you read this please keep us in your prayers. It's going to be a long recovery and it's vital that he is able to heal completely so he doesn't have life long complications...gratefully he's not a toddler I have to keep still, but I'm not sure how much easier it's going to be for an active teenage boy...

I've had a testimony that our Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ, know us individually. I know they hear our prayers, but each time I see their hands in our lives I am always humbled and my knowledge is strengthened. As with Nathan, I say, if it is not to have the cup removed then we will submit and hold on to thee with both hands. We will look for the blessings and miracle and have faith when it seems dark and we feel lost and alone. I know He has people watching over us, on both side of the veil.

Short version

2012-01-20T10:05:00.000-05:00

Once again I haven't made time to update our family blog. It seems we are either too busy living our lives or life is too boring and I've got nothing to say. Quick catch up:

Fall/Halloween:

we had great fun with pumpkins-

getting them on our traditional day Oct 10th,

decorating them and then making our pumpkin puree for the first time.

Thanksgiving:

delicious food with great friends.

much to be grateful for.

Christmas:

drive to NYC to meet up with Mychel

visit with Gary's family

Philly

DC and then

Savannah the first week of January

If the stars align I'll add pictures...

I want my missing muffin!

2011-10-31T07:11:00.001-04:00

I love when I use a coupon on a sale item...it makes my day. What does not make my day is when I discover sneaky manufacturers trying to deceive/trick their customers. So after getting a great deal, I was excited to try this new muffin mix until I read down to the yield!

11....11...seriously 11 muffins?

Did they start making muffin pans with 11 cups?

Are we changing the number in a dozen?

Did they really think we wouldn't notice?

I want my missing muffin!

Needless to say we will no longer be buying this brand...no matter the sale and/or coupon!

August brought a birthday and a new driver

2011-10-15T20:50:00.002-04:00

Will was very excited to turn 15 but I think his dad was just as excited. It fell to me to take him to the drivers license bureau. I'd forgotten about having to take two test so I wasn't stressed until he'd gone off to take them...I knew he'd been studying the drivers handbook but Will and tests don't go that well together. Needless to say when they told him he'd passed we were both ready to do a happy dance!

All those years of mowing the lawn with the riding lawn mower have paid off....he was a good driver from the get go!

And now nearly two months later I've got to admit I like having a personal driver!

I'm loving Pinterest and my family is benefitting

2011-10-13T20:40:00.001-04:00

So far we've had some yummy new dinners.

I've organized all my craft stuff so I can get creative.

I've decorated for fall.

I've saved money by getting ideas for using things I already have.

and

I made this:

with the twins and Mr C for their parents...so they think I rock!

Yes, dolly I made you one too but you have to come home to pick it up ;D

Sorry the picture is so crappy...Gary took the camera to work so all I had was my iPhone.

Whew...that was a much longer break than expected!

2011-10-11T20:39:00.000-04:00

Life got crazy here for awhile.

We had so many wonderful experiences the end of April/first of May with the rededication activities for the Atlanta Temple. Our stake was assigned to work the last day of the open house. We waited for Mychel to come home so we could all go through the open house together. It was a day I will always treasure.

After months of practice it was finally time for the cultural celebration the night before the re-dedication. After practicing for hours the day before and another long hot Georgia day of practicing, waiting and finally performing the day of....Will summed up the experience when he said, "I wish we could practice for just one more day!" The blessing of having all of the youth together was immeasurable and then add the opportunity to perform for the prophet. Will took the above picture with his iPod touch....he was that close!

Tornados had ripped through the south just before the re-dedication affecting many in our temple district. Just a day after the dedication we got word that we were needed go to the rescue and help in affected areas. It would be over Mother's day weekend. After having the spirit and blessings poured out so abundantly of course the answer was a quick and resounding YES! The devastation was unimaginable.

Then we had an end of the year band concert....

and a Court of Honor where I became the mom of two life scouts!

Then the arrival of The Coates twins.

And that was all just the month of May....I didn't even mention the weekly knife making classes and track.

Then the boys first EFY, Youth Conference and LDS/BSA encampment kept us on the go this summer.

Before we knew it summer was over and school was starting. I'm so grateful they had a summer full of experiences that helped them put on their spiritual armor in preparation for HIGH SCHOOL! Holy cow...ready or not...here it comes!

2011-05-09T23:23:00.000-04:00

In March the date for the rededication of the Atlanta Temple and cultural celebration was announced and the craziness began. It goes without saying we were thrilled. It's been nearly two years, about a year longer than they originally estimated, not to mention the opportunity for our boys and the youth of all the stakes in our temple district. At times we wondered how we get everything done we needed to, how everything would come together, how we could afford all the travel and accompanying expenses.
Then add:

Stake scouting training I was in charge of putting together

Zac and his track practices and meets,

fund raising for boy scout camp,

Gary still working out of town,

attending a different unit in the stake each Sunday as part of my stake calling,

Gary helping with BSA training,

a baby shower to put on for two dear friends

RS dutch oven evening activity at our home

Gary getting an terrible bacterial infection that put him down for over a week...it was BAD!

supporting the boys with their egg and yard businesses

all while working around weekly practices as well as stake practices for the cultural celebration

training for working the openhouse

oh and making the costumes...

I admit it was hard, at time, to keep perspective. I began to only focus on the next event. That was a blessing when we found out we have roots that have compromised a pipe in the slab under our house (oh and also the main pipe leading to the septic tank, out back.) When the plumber hands you an estimate with that many digits it pretty much sends you into shock! I had to make a choice to let the news overshadow all the joy and excitement or make the choice to schedule my breakdown until after the temple dedication.

I know our sacrifices and trial are nothing compared to the pioneers but it has tested our faith, our strength and our focus and given us the opportunity to see the Lord's hand in our lives, draw closer together and put the Lord first!

Teenagers...the source of insanity

2011-03-04T19:35:00.001-05:00

Let me set the scene.

It's about 4:15 pm on a beautiful, almost spring in the south, afternoon.

My M-F 3 yr old side kick is riding his tricycle up and down our sidewalk.

I'm sitting on the front porch watching him.

Fourteen yr old has just exited the school bus and is walking up the drive.

He says and I quote:

"Don't tell me you're really sitting outside."

I reply in my oh so kind motherly voice:

"Cully wanted to ride his bike, so of course I'm out here with him."

Then he says...are you ready for this:

"You could have said that."

Is it any wonder parents of teenagers are all a little crazy?
Please tell me it's not just us!

Open my EYES!

2011-01-29T09:01:00.001-05:00

2nd Kings 6

15 And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do?

16 And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.

17 And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his ^aeyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and ^bchariots of fire round about Elisha.

I love this scripture. It's easy to get overwhelmed with life and forget...

forget who we are,

who our King is,

and that we are never, ever have to do it alone...WE HAVE AN ARMY!

Worth the risk

2011-01-15T11:06:00.008-05:00

Mom's of teenage boys will understand, while they don't have the hormone up and down issues of girls they do have a code of silence that must be adhered to or you risk all communication being shut off for an indefinite length of time.So sharing the joy and gratitude I feel for my sons, is a risk, but hey every once in awhile you've got to walk on the wild side, right? but shhhh don't tell them about it if you see them. ok!

Last night my boys went to their first church dance. Big, Big Deal!

(total bonus: it was multi-stake!)

Both were nervous, but very excited.

Gary had to go as leader and ever so sweetly asked me to come too.

The boys were fine with that (thankfully)

We set the standard that they had to dance with 3 different girls they didn't know.

They were not thrilled with this, but we stood firm and they negotiated a no teasing zone in return.

Half way through the dance they both sought us out to tell us they'd danced with over 10 different girls.

Zac even won a candy prize for dancing with the most girls.

They were having the time of their lives.

On the way home they proudly let us know they danced with around 18 girls each.
Then...then.. they started telling us different things about the girls they'd danced with.

"A lot of them like to run", says Zac, our runner

"The girls were a lot like me", says Will. "They like the same things I like."

and it went on and on.

It was truly one of those moment where your heart is so full you could burst.

Where you look at these children who you love but sometimes make your head want to explode

and you think

I really, really like you!

You are the kind of person I want to be around!

and it makes everything

all the long nights

all the hard converations

all the tears and frustration

worth it

because these children are become amazing adult.

They are choosing to sons of a Heavenly Father who loves them.

You glimpse the missionaries they will become

and my heart cried out in a silent prayer of thanksgiving

to a loving Heavenly Father who loves them even more than we do!

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

for letting us be their parents.

It is an honor and a privilege and I am humbled to my core.

Message recieved...

2011-01-10T21:30:00.001-05:00

Today's scripture is Leviticus19:17 ¶ Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.
18 ¶ Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord.

So, it's been a difficult holiday and I haven't always had the right attitude. Don't you just love when Heavenly Father sends you a personal message in a book written thousands of years ago?

Our Christmas in 3 photos

2011-01-10T01:03:00.001-05:00

December 25

December 26

I'm reading the bible in 90 days

2011-01-09T00:08:00.001-05:00

Just a couple of days into the new year I found the blog Mom's Toolbox. Without much thought I just decided to join in. I've never done anything like this before. I know I've read the Old Testament before, but it was way to long ago for me to actually remember it (high school was a lifetime ago).I do remember the new testament, but that was a long time ago too.

Occasionally I'll share a scripture that caught my heart.
Today's scripture is from Moses 40:15 And thou shalt anoint them, as thou didst anoint their father, that they may minister unto me in the priest’s office: for their anointing shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their generations.

Thinking about my sons, especially Nathan, I hold tightly to God's promises!

Pink Miracle

2011-01-07T01:03:00.000-05:00

and I don't even like pink,

but my daughter does.

We moved her stuff out of her big room

and into her little brother's small room.

It's traumatic to lose your "place" in your home

but she was pretty good about it

One request was to paint it pink and brown.

We only had time to paint a shelf pink.

And the pink paint we had was this:

From another pink painting adventure a few years ago.

Now she wanted a light, more mature pink.

She couldn't find her paint chip to show me the color

So I just started mixing.

And I came up with this:

After we were done she found the chip

Not bad, huh!

I know it's not earth shattering or life changing,

but it made a difference to us.

Some may say it's just luck, but I know better.

I believe it's vital to acknowledge the tiny miracles, so

Thank you Heavenly Father

for our pink miracle.

(ps these pictures brought to you by my Christmas present from my adorable husband and angel daughter..he bought it, but she found it for him to buy)

Our Christmas Letter-just in case...

2010-12-23T23:51:00.001-05:00

Murphy’s Top 10 for 2010

1. Teaching the boys the value of a dollar by raising chickens and selling their eggs. If they don’t watch it we’ll start bagging chickenure and sell it too……

2. The miracle and blessing of modern medicine…last year at this time we were concerned a dear friend would never be whole again (he had the whipple procedure, as seen on Grey’s Anatomy, and a fistula, also as seen on Grey’s Anatomy) and this year we are celebrating the news they are having twins!

3. We all appreciate Mychel’s new camera and her talents in using it. She was especially generous by being our family photographer while we were in Utah for almost a month.

4. Spring break in FL with the Clarks, wave runners, concerts on the beach, delicious food, grilling at sunset overlooking the bay, great friends.

5. Labor Day was awesome because we got to have Mychel home for a 4 day visit. It was a last minute bonus and that made it all the more fun.

6. Gary, Will and Zac attend Boy Scout summer camp and had a great time. Gary did some training while the boys earned merit badges. Will and Zac earned their star rank and Gary began his Wood Badge journey. Shelice enjoyed some quiet weekends alones (only downside was having to take care of all animals herself 1 dog, 1 cat, 26 chickens.)

7. Summer in Utah visiting family and celebrating the 4^th of July with them, attending the temple, Nephi Pageant, time with friends, a quick trip to Rexburg and wonderful week at Bear Lake. Bear Lake included; wake boarding, tubing, chocolate covered raspberries, shakes and time with family.

8. Mychel sang an a capella solo of If the Savior Stood Beside Me at a LDSBC devotional and thanks to her new iPhone we got to hear it. Then she sang at a CES fireside, broadcast to the whole world, and thanks to the internet we got to see and hear her.

9. Gary’s still employed and now also has full time volunteer job…Scoutmaster extraordinaire. He loves BSA so much he found a way to get Shelice involved too. She’s a Unit Commissioner.

10. Amazing, generous, patient, thoughtful friends and family who enrich our lives and make us better people. We love you all dearly! Yes, we mean you……..I know.

Seriously??!!!!

2010-12-18T23:50:00.001-05:00

If you need Christmas spirit this is not the place to find it. If you have extra, please feel free to share.

Obviously I didn't learn something from last Christmas. See here and here if you'd a review. We started off pretty good. We got Mychel here early to surprise her dad for his birthday. December 15th is a rough day to have a birthday...early in our marriage it was finals, there is often a Christmas party on it, it just easily gets lost in all the other holiday happenings. I'm at less than 50% for making it a special day. This year since it fell on a Wednesday, ie scout night, Mychel and I hatched a plan to throw a surprise party at church. Then we found our Gary's parents should be arriving on his birthday...Perfect! or so we thought.

Within hours of arriving Bea (Gar's mom) was in the emergency room. A few hours later she was admitted. Friday morning they tell us they think she's had a heart attack. Now we're waiting for a heart cath on Monday. Not the warm, cozy, relaxed family filled Christmas I'd been dreaming of. Now our days revolve around waiting for news and driving back and forth to the hospital. The good news is that she is looking a little better each day and we are so grateful that we can visit many times a day and help Bea rest a little easier knowing we're looking after Bill (Gar's dad).

Christmas baking may become New Year's baking. Christmas cards will hopefully be sent out before the New Year. Maybe we'll go with Russian New Year for our Christmas presents. I know in the scheme of things none of that really matters. It's just that since our first Christmas without Nathan, Christmas has become a time filled with emotional landmines for us. Gratefully, each year it's gotten a little better. I was ready to really feel Christmas again, to give my children the traditions we've only had hit and miss over the last six years, and to live in this moment and feel joy.

Obviously Heavenly Father has other plans, so I will trust we will have the Christmas we need. Even if it's not the one I was dreaming of...

What's up you ask?

2010-12-06T23:01:00.000-05:00

Chickens and children, that's been covered.
BSA, noted.
I've been MIA, ya no good excuses come to mind.

That just leaves me with the reality that.....
It's Christmas letter time....
serious love/hate relationship happenin' there.

I feel let down when I get a Christmas card with no note and/or no picture so I feel compelled to include at lease one or the other, most times both. Last year I chose guilt over the stress and didn't do anything. I tried to tell myself, absence makes the heart grow fonder...but since the reality is that absence makes us forget, I have a two year limit on not making contact.

Soooo like it or not, it's that time again! I have made the executive decision that there we will no picture, at least not a recent one. We can't have a picture without our Miss M and she won't be here for awhile yet. There will be a little surprise, though. Since the only people who will ever read this will be people who will get a card I won't spoil it.

Hey, bonus for me, it just dawned on me that because I've been MIA our note won't just be a blog recap...ya that's what I was planning all along! I love it when a plan comes together.

Forward or Backward...that is the question!

2010-10-20T14:48:00.002-04:00

As I watch three babies run around my house and spy our chickens in the front yard I have to ask myself...Is my life going backward instead of forward? I mean 10 plus years ago when I was going happily crazy with my three boys running around all day, at least I didn't have chicken poop on my front walk!

I've been abducted by the BSA!

2010-10-18T14:55:00.002-04:00

It's been a little too quiet. I should have known...

So, the first memory I have of scouting is attending my brother's Eagle court of honor. As time went on I followed in what I perceive were my dad's footsteps....scouting is a great program from a distance. I supported it as long as I don't really have to do anything with it. Then Heavenly Father gave us 3 sons.

Never fear, I had a plan....their father! I mean what are men for anyway...go Gar, go! I'll support you from the couch, was my cheer. Then wouldn't you know it! When they became cub scouts and Gar was called as a den leader, his job required him to travel 7 to 8 months of the year. So who do you think became the den leader? You can't tell me Heavenly Father doesn't have a sense of humor and he's sly. I must confess I did come to appreciate and often enjoy my time in cub scouts. The closer they came to their 11th birthdays though, the brighter the light became. I was done. I'd served my time. Thank you wise leaders for making 11 yrs boy scouts. Shut that door, I was done. See ya NEVER!

Then a little over a year ago I was called into the stake primary presidency. Can you guess what I was put in charge of.....ding, ding, ding you got it...cub scouts! I didn't even moan. I was grateful for my experience and wanted to help other mom's out there not be so scared and overwhelmed at the mere mention of the words, cub and scout. Once again, Heavenly has shown not only his wisdom but his stealth. It all started so innocently. Attend a training session to set a good example, attend a round table because your husband was going anyway and it would, again, set a good example and BAM! the next thing you know you're going to be a commissioner.

All I can say is Heaven help us all!

Oh and this better get me a free get out of jail card for something I've done, or will do.

PS Just for the record I'll wear the shirt but I WILL NOT EVER attend wood badge. THAT is what Gary is for!

Life is good wish you were here.,

2010-08-12T23:59:00.000-04:00

I apologize for the extended disappearing act. Life is normal busy, boys have started 8th...yes 8th grade. I'm still adjusting to being the parent of 8th graders. Gar is full emersed in scout master training and I'm just loving life. More soon or stop by for a chat!

Even in pain we have faith!

2010-05-31T18:06:00.001-04:00

Like I said in the previous post we don't always understand the timing. After more than 20 years there are is still huge hole in our hearts. We still wish Heavenly Father's plan for our family could have been different, but we have faith He knows the beginning from the end. We have faith He loves us and knows us better than we know ourselves and each other. We have faith He can use all things for good. We have faith he's there with our angel and they are busy waiting together, for the rest of us!

To all who are remembering those who have gone on ahead of us we send our love. We are so grateful for this country and all those who have preserved our freedoms. All those who have and now fight from God, Freedom and Family we honor and pray for you and your families!

Faith.....and timing

2010-05-29T19:04:00.000-04:00

"Faith in God

includes faith in

His timing"

Elder Neal A. Maxwell

When I read this quote today I thought of some dear friends. One is hoping her first biological baby doesn't arrive while her husband is out of town. Another is still waiting for their home to sell. Our ward is waiting for some major callings to be filled. We've been waiting for guidance on family matter for a looonnnnggg time.

I wouldn't say I'm a patient person but my 40+ years have taught me that

even things I think are urgent and imperative can wait...

if that is what the Lord wants.

I think 6 years of faithfully and not so faithfully

pleading, begging, praying, fasting, bargaining, listening, demanding, waiting, pondering, pouting, etc with the Lord for guidance about children for our family...infertility, adoption, etc tutored me.

Getting the answer to

1. Go to Russia

2. Adopt 3 boys ages 2, 2.5 and 3

3. Going from decision to home with boys in 6 months and 3 days

Changes you!

No matter what else comes

and those who know us, know much has come since that time

I can never deny God's timing.

I can never deny He knows best.

I can never deny that when necessary He can and will move mountain...and governements.

There is much we don't understand.

There are times I strongly disagree with His timing

But that is where faith comes in.

Those are the time when I hold tight to the memory of

the hand of God

placing three trusting hands in ours.

It reminds me to be faithful,

so that when it matters

I will be able to be where He needs me to be

and do what He needs me to do.

We continue to pray for those who are waiting.

It's a long, lonely journey.

We pray for peace, for hope, for patience

but most of all faith and strength

because sometimes the answer is more work than you were ready for

but BOY will it be worth it!

Don't ya love it!

2010-05-26T22:28:00.000-04:00

I chose the background but then I was stuck getting it all to switch over.

Gratefully my techno-savy awesome daughter was home and fixed it for me.

We're gonna miss her something fierce!

It's not getting any easier to have her leave...parenthood is painful sometime!

Thanks for a wonderful visit, angel!

Pictures are coming if she finds time to download them from her camera before she leaves.

Fingers crossed.

Mychel's home

2010-05-17T22:52:00.002-04:00

We're making memories.

Be back soon!

Love, All of us

Choosing to Live

2010-05-05T12:43:00.004-04:00

It's easy to get distracted.

To forget why we're here and what really matters.

Stephanie literally got to choose to live.

Each day we get to choose too.

We choose to love, to feel, to accept.

We choose to trust a loving Heavenly Father.

We choose faith. We choose hope.

We choose to really LIVE!
I needed this reminder.

My New Life

click above to see video on youtube

Righteous Examples Matter

2010-04-22T08:09:00.001-04:00

Everyone makes mistakes

Everyone suffers, at least some level of, injustice

Today, I say a personal thank you to the

BYU Women's Rugby Team,

Keilani Moeaki

and Harvey Unga.

for living what they believe and giving our family the opportunity to have a dinner table discussion that applies all of Elder Bednar's suggestions from conference.

INTEGRITY...it matters!

Will...the artist...who knew?

2010-04-02T17:05:00.001-04:00

One of the really cool upsides to being a parent

is finding out your child has a talent you didn't know about...

My Will created this!

He was awarded 2nd place in his school!

Pardon me while I...

2010-03-22T20:17:00.001-04:00

share...

tell you about...

ok, BRAG about the dinner I made tonight.

First, a bit of back ground. I had homemade refried beans, left over roast and some cheese I needed to use up. I wasn't really hungry, therefore nothing sounded good. It's Monday.

So as I sat waiting for my last munchkin to be picked up I was trying desperately to figure out what to do for dinner before Big G arrived and uttered the phrase we that is worse than nails on chalk board for me.... We'd already had left over roast, soft tacos with it and no one wanted quesadillas. Somehow my brain came up with a casserole. Before I tell you about it I need you to just be proud of me. I don't care it you've made something like it before that was much better, more creative, healthier and ecofriendly. This was big for me.

Here goes:
Spray whatever size oven pan you're going to use with non stick spray.
Spread thick layer of refried beans in bottom
Next scatter a layer of your chosen already cooked meat.
Drizzle a thin layer of salsa
Top with lots of cheese.
Heat until cheese melts.
For those of you who only have a few crumbs left in the bottom of the corn chip bag...
sprinkle those on top.
Otherwise I'd have served it with them to be eaten like a dip
One son chose to put the hot, gooey, yumminess in a tortilla and eat it that way.
The rest of us used spoons.

Now if your Big G you'll be deeply offended at the corn chip on top.
and repeatedly announce chicken would have been a better meat choice.
(I've learned to just nod and think he missed his calling as a restaurant critic)

Sorry, no pictures...I had no idea it would be worth "sharing"

I need a baby...

2010-03-18T16:23:00.007-04:00

so I can have a reason for my sister to make me one of these adorable hats...

I guess it would also help if we lived somewhere it got really cold for
more than...a minute.

To see more hats go here.
To see more of this adorable baby boy go here
I've very blessed to be the sister of these two talented
and very beautiful (inside and out) women.

To clarify...I don't really want a baby of our own,
been there, done with that!

Just what I needed...

2010-03-17T11:51:00.001-04:00

I was blog jogging this morning and came upon this Words to live by
It was just what I needed to "hear".

Gotta love Google and Green

2010-03-17T07:49:00.000-04:00

-1=14+15=i think my boys are crazy...

2010-03-07T16:10:00.008-05:00

Let me preface this by saying: "My boys are rockin' the egg business. So much so I had to BUY, yes, buy eggs at the store. See, we've reached a point were demand it about to our pace our supply. We started last June with 25 chickens. As of Friday we were down to 15. We're not doing so great on the keepin' them on earth business.

-1

We arrived home from a day in Atlanta and found that one of our chickens had died.

That means we're now down to =14

So Gar called a local feed store and found two weeks old Rhode Island Reds for sale. The boys paid for part of them and we covered the rest.

+15

That means we are now the proud caretakers of 29 chickens. We'll see how long it takes for us to share some with heaven, again.

I'm proud to announce...

2010-02-28T16:32:00.002-05:00

that this ruggedly handsome man

is the new scout master for the Flat Rock Ward.
Feel free to call him with advice, ideas, condolences ;)

Счастливый 13th день рождения Zac

2010-02-24T00:01:00.002-05:00

This little boy

Isn't so little anymore...

Happy 13th Birthday Zac!

Compliments Matter

2010-02-17T22:09:00.005-05:00

I've reached a new high.
My middle son, of few words, asked for my help today
on a logic puzzle/game
I hate those.
I'd skip them on tests.
My brain goes in circles.
I happened to remember the solution to this one.
After I told him, he did it
and it worked he said
"You're pretty smart, actually"
Well thank you son!
Would you mind signing this paper and repeating that for the video camera?
I might need to remind you of this moment in the future.

I want one...

2010-02-14T22:43:00.005-05:00

Some people watch the opening ceremonies for the show, the music, the culture.
That's good and all, but I enjoy the fashion show...
who needs fashion week?
Love at first sight.
Anyone going to Slovenia?
Anyone know a Slovenian Olympian about my size
that wants to give me theirs?
Ya, that's what I thought...

Holy PoTAtoE Batman!

2010-02-08T11:58:00.004-05:00

I have a few loves in my life:
naps
reading
chocolate milk
shrimp dip
cookie dough, cake batter, brownie batter etc
and
POTATOES!
So when someone sent me a link about potatoes I had to check it out.
Seriously...this is awesome!

Счастливый 14-ый день рождения Натан

2010-02-06T10:31:00.002-05:00

Happy 14th Birthday Nathan!We Miss You!!!

I got nothin'...

2010-02-05T11:21:00.002-05:00

Over the past week or so
I've come to our family blog

and stared.
I want to update.
I have time to update.
I have nothing to say.
I blame it on the death of my iPhone.
I could say I'm in mourning.
I could say I'm totally annoyed and frustrated.
The truth is I'm lonely.
We'd become friends.
"i" was always there for me with weather updates,
TMZ updates,
dings when I had mail,
beeps to alert me of a text,
my calendar for my ohhh so busy life and highly in demand time (irony alert)
games,
fox news, usa today news, deseret news,
oh the apps I've lost..it's devastating.
Now all I got is laundry, dishes, and life...
dang it!
Impersonal interactions...I miss you!

14 baby!

2010-01-18T07:35:00.001-05:00

Just in case anyone was wondering...new high yesterday.
Our girls gave us 14 eggs.

The boys are working on their advertising and marketing plan.
Scout Camp, Summer Trip to UT, Stuff they want...
all very motivating to get to selling.
Feel free to contact them if you want some farm fresh eggs
from happy chickens !
(get it..happy cows...cheese...commerical? I knew ya did)

Free bonus: if you'd like to bring your kids to gather your order of eggs
I know Will and Zac would be willing to take them.
It's a really cool thing.
Our Mr. C begs to go get eggs.
I don't know if it's the eggs or chickens he likes more.

January...let the fun begin

2010-01-05T22:11:00.016-05:00

Where to begin...

So far this year I've had a shocking revelation -

This boy

and I have the same size feet!He's 13. I have a confession to make. Since we don't know anything about our boys genetics I used to worry that I could end up with short boys. Please don't hate me. Don't leave me rude comments.
My dad was tall, my brothers are tall...it's my world, ok.
Anyway, Zac's only a shoe size behind so I guess I can check that off my list.

****
While we're on Zac he finally discontinued the diet he'd had our chickens on...
you know "the teenage boy I don't want to do my chores so I'll just say I gave them food and water today" diet. Now they have the proper nutrition our chickens have finally come around. Today we got 8 eggs! We're getting there girls... 17 hens, 1 rooster.
It will be a real party when we get a dozen a day. Now if they can just start paying for their feed I'll be a happy mom.

It is really cool to have my boys, relatives, friends etc come in with an egg they've found.
The smiles are priceless. Gary's older brother Billy was the best.

****

I've been spoiled by Cully. He's sweet, easy, little (as in 2yrs and 23ish pounds), and his parents are the best. Today we entered a new phase...
about 2 and a half hours after he went down for a nap I turned around and found him standing behind me in the kitchen. He's known how to climb out of his pack and play for months, but never done it when he was with me (I told you...spoiled)
I guess all good things must come to an end.

****

Speaking of Cully...his dad, Stephen was able to come to sacrament meeting Sunday. At last count I think he'd lost 30 pounds since his surgery. He looks so fragile to me, but he's here and that's all that matters right now. He says he's feeling stronger everyday. He still can't take anything by mouth...can you imagine. We're getting close to a month since he's had anything to eat or drink besides taking some pain meds.
He says he dreams of fruit.

****

Since I brought food up...our freezer has a fresh supply of deer meat thanks to my super hunter, manly man husband who got a deer this week and processed it himself. Did I mention we're having record lows here?
It was a chilly experience for all involved. I was warm and toasty in the house. I did google, "How to tan a deer hide." so I did my part.I'm not even asking...I just relay the info. (PS this picture makes my heart smile...I hope my dad is smiling from heaven. I know my grandpa Hyde is...he taught Gary how to butcher a dear...many, many years ago. Another generation of hunters!)
Oh, don't even ask about the hat...I have no idea.

****
So how's 2010 goin' for ya'll so far?

2010...here we go again!

2010-01-01T21:46:00.005-05:00

I know my Heavenly Father loves me.
Thankfully He is also very patient.
Now if He could just help me get over the heart wrenching pain of good-byes...

I didn't mind saying good-bye to 2009.
I did ok, saying good-bye to Gary's big brother Billy.It's such a joy to have him in our home. We will all miss him!
Gary and I had our first date of 2010...we drove him to the Atlanta airport today.
We had a great talk, up and back. It was heaven.

Tonight, though, we gathered together and set some family goals and
had our last whole family counsel until who knows when.
My heart hurts.
We had our last whole family prayer, for awhile.
I cried.
Mychel-Anne flies back to Utah tomorrow and it's killing me.
I know it's right. I know it's good.
That doesn't make it easier...at least not tonight.

i have the BEST cousin

2009-12-29T14:56:00.004-05:00

This is our family

My awesome cousin Amy made them and sent them in her Christmas card to us. I'm so blessed!That's her in the middle...she's the mom of 4 beautiful children. Thanks Amy! We love you!

When needed Heavenly Father will use the phone...

2009-12-03T18:57:00.005-05:00

I will admit this last quarter of 2009 has been rough for the Murphy family for a variety of reasons. I've been looking for the blessings...sometimes it was harder than others. I've been practicing an attitude of gratitude. I've been focusing on my haves and not my have nots. Monday, we were "blessed" that Gary was able to have knee surgery and everything went well. It's not fun to spend the holidays recovering, but we have insurance and sick leave so...attitude of gratitude. Really, over all I can't complain and then...Tuesday happened. As I was leaving to take a friend to drop off her car, to have work done, I simply stepped out my front door and BOOM...down goes Fraser! Yup, nasty sprained ankle was my reward. My first thought was...you've got to be kidding me! I have a 3 months old, 2 year old and 43 yr old invalid to take care of during the day...this is NOT an option. Add to that the 2 year old's parents were on their way to Atlanta to find out if the dad's mass on his pancreas is cancer. Really a sprained ankle? I mean REALLY???
After two days of sharing crutches with my patient, head shaking in disbelief, husband I admit to feeling a little sorry for myself. Enough is enough. Then my phone rings. A lady on the other end asks if I teach scrapbooking classes and if I'd be available December 19th to do a workshop. Can you imagine where my mind went...it wasn't pretty...then she goes on to explain she works for the Division of Child and Family Service and she wants me to help about 40 foster kids make life books. To say I was instantly humbled is an understatement. As I sat in my comfy recliner, looking across the hall at my healthy, loving husband, with pictures of my incredible children on the wall in our warm, safe home I was put in my place by a kind and loving Heavenly Father.

Thanks for calling...it's just what I needed.

If you need me on the 19th I'll be busy from 10-2.

PS Is a miracle sprain healing too much to ask? As Gary would say, I had to ask ;D

A Great Big Thank You and Yup, I'm obessed with google

2009-11-11T08:02:00.006-05:00

We were walking in a crowd the other day and there was an older gentleman with a military baseball cap. My husband stopped and quietly thanked him. The look on the man's face said it all. I feel that gratitude and humility in my heart but don't express it often enough. So today I shout with all my heart "Thank you my grandpas and grandmas! Thank you Mike, Jeremy, Aaron, Will, Aaron, Chris, Gerry, Scott, Walter, Brent, Shaun, Ron, Adam, Seth, Luke, Stephen, Andrew and every other man and woman who has or is serving our country and protecting our freedom!

I want to go to this birthday party!

2009-11-08T20:37:00.005-05:00

Happy 40th Birthday...cookie monster,
oscar,
burt,
ernie,
big bird,
snuffy
count,
Maria,
super grover,
elmo
....I miss you Mr. Hooper!

Thanks Google for making me smile!

New Month, New Living Arrangments

2009-11-02T16:40:00.003-05:00

I knew it was too good to be true.
Life finally settled down.
We had 5 fun, blissful days together then BAM one phone call and Gar is on his way to Savannah for the month.
It was nice seein' ya, babe.
Be sure to write!

Look what happens when the I leave town...

2009-10-30T21:14:00.004-04:00

I didn't believe my boys when they told me their dad was growing a beard. I don't like beards, normally. To my surprise I gotta tell ya, it's workin' for me! I know, I know..as the boys say all the time...get a room! Gladly :D

Thank you for the ride, Heavenly Father!

2009-10-24T15:58:00.005-04:00

October has been an interesting month to say the least...

a knee revision for father-in-law

a dear friend and young mom nearly died
blessing of getting to love her children when she couldn't
being able to call friends and have them spring into action
acknowledging 20 yrs without my dad
a week in NJ with my in-laws helping out and having lots of laughs
sleeping on a sofa bed for a week
my body acting like it's an old 80 yr old
humiliating date mix ups
began getting to spend m-w with a brand new sweet baby girl (6 wks old)
leave for a week and nameless son's grades tank, big time
One day: Gary told he's in columbus for six weeks
Very next day: Gary told he'll be going to Savannah in a week or so until Thanksgiving
Later in the week: maybe Atlanta until Christmas
Gary scheduled his knee surgery
Down to 19 chickens
Griffin Beck Carmack arrives...my sister and baby doing great

Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste
a lot of time running around shouting that he’s been robbed.
The fact is that most putts don’t drop, most beef is tough,
most children grow up to be just people, most successful marriages
require a high degree of mutual toleration; most jobs are more
often dull than otherwise.  Life is like an old-time rail
journey...delays,sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders, and jolts,
interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas, and thrilling
burst of speed.The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you
have the ride.
-President Gordon B. Hinckley

This question matters

2009-09-18T08:37:00.004-04:00

As I was studying my scriptures this morning with a heart and mind full of "life" I was reminded of a life changing lesson I learned just over 5 years ago.

As I struggled with the joy and demands of being the mom to a recovering only child and 3 toddlers, I prayed constantly for help and guidance. Over and over the simple answer came, "Love them" or specifically "love so and so." After Nathan died all I could think about was, "Did/does he know how much I love him?" It was the constant cry of my heart and soul. I was so grateful that over and over through his short time with us as I came to my Heavenly Father with my list of frustrations...help me potty train them, why won't they sleep, help Mychel adjust, and on and on the answer was what he knew I/we would need more than anything else.

So, I today I'm asking: Do those most dear and precious to me know I love them? Really, what else matters?

God's Plan....Matters!

2009-09-07T17:38:00.002-04:00

Many, many years Heavenly Father gave me a priceless gift at at Creative Memories Convention...a friend I still cherish today. We have only seen each other a handful of times and years have gone by without contact, but that affect our friendship. She sent me a video of her daughter (how she can be a senior in college is beyond me...) singing a song she wrote. It spoke to my heart....I hope you can "hear" it too.

I'll paste the words below, but you can also find them by going to YouTube and clicking more info. Also, I know Bonnie would love to hear your thoughts on her song so pop on over to YouTube for that too :D

Bonnie Leigh Abt performs a song that she wrote in July 2009
Lyrics:

Plane arrives in a foreign land
he shields his eyes from the swirling sand
what a strange and beautiful grand plan.
Twenty years had come to pass when
he heard the calling on his life
he waved goodbye to his mom and dad
as he boarded that plane, trying to explain

(chorus)
I know it isn't what you saw when you
told me that I could chase my dreams but
my God was never one to stand by passively

At thirty-one she lives alone
a single bed is all she's ever known
if you asked she'd tell you she prefers it this way
"How do you handle all those lonely nights?"
her good friend wonders over the phone
she paused and thought of all the ways
God used her for His gain, and tried to explain

Chorus

Life is not a story you could easily have guessed
so don't turn that page, He's not finished with you yet

No words can dry a mother's tears as she
sees her son dying on that cross
she longs to comfort him and hold him in her arms
"I remember every time you bled when you
scraped your knees or bumped your head,
what would I give to take you down
and wash away these stains",
but her son simply explained

Chorus
So hold on for just a little bit longer
and one day this whole world will see that
our God was never one to stand by passively
soon we'll see, soon we'll see

It's been a big week here at the Murphy's

2009-08-21T08:57:00.005-04:00

Tuesday:
My last sibling got married...Congrats Markham and Brittany.

Wednesday:
I bough my first eggplant and made my first eggplant dish...it was yummy.

Thursday: My sister Lindsay and her husband Adam welcomed their third miracle...Welcome Camryn Eileen.

And then to top it off my mom sent me this today. I could watch it over and over. I wish I could make it my wake up video! Ohhhh, I wish I could have been there!

More than 200 dancers were performing their version of "Do Re Mi", in the Central Station of Antwerp. with just 2 rehearsals they created this amazing stunt! Those 4 fantastic minutes started the 23 of march 2009, 08:00 AM. It is a promotion stunt for a Belgian television program, where they are looking for someone to play the leading role, in the musical of "The Sound of Music".

What is the world coming to...

2009-08-12T18:57:00.002-04:00

We now have a twitter account because it was a homework assignment. Could be worse... If you'd like to twitter with us we can be found at Nathansfamily...Murphy Matters was already taken. Tweet,Tweet!

A Must Listen

2009-07-27T22:28:00.002-04:00

We found this on a member of our family's blog and HAD to share! Side note...mp3 isn't available yet...legal hoops to jump, but I can hardly wait...

Family Matters

2009-07-22T10:10:00.011-04:00

So, I've decided a few things.
1. I'm not getting old
2. I'm not getting old
3. I'm not getting old

It's been a crazy summer, almost nothing has gone as planned, but you might as well enjoy the journey. Here's a peek at what we've been up to...

The boys got to visit their grandparents and spend a couple of days in DC!

Murphy's farm as added chickens to our insanity...at least we'll eat well!

We celebrated our country and it's freedoms...Thank you to all our military!!!

Gary's 25th year high school class reunion

Dad livened up the party with a 911 call, ride in the ambulance and stay in the hospital

Because he also has shingles...I know...if it's not one thing it's another...we had to dress up!

At least we got some fun photos from it!

How many places have you lived?

2009-05-26T11:50:00.002-04:00

A rockin' friend had this on her blog and I thought, hum...let me count...I'm at 25 (really probably a few more in the early years, but close enough)...How 'bout you?
1. Centerville, UT (born)
2. Las Vegas, NV
3.Salt Lake, UT
4 Salt Lake, UT
5. Centerville, UT (Apt H-8? mom?)
6. Centerville, UT
7. Kaysville, UT
8. Linwood, NJ
9. Bountiful, UT
10. Linwood, NJ
11. St. George, UT
12. Linwood, NJ
13. Glassboro, NJ...Joe's
14. Glassboro, NJ...Flower shop
15. Provo, UT Branbury Apts
16. Provo, UT First place we lived when we got married...it was scary!
17. T Street, SLC, UT Mychel was born here (ok in the hospital close by, but you get what I mean :D
18. U Street, SLC, UT
19. Boca Raton, FL Funeral Director school
20. Mesa, AZ
21. Spanish Fork,UT Upstairs at the mortuary
22. Spanish Fork,UT Downstairs at the mortuary
23 Spanish Fork,UT The boys came home to here!
24. Columbus, GA
25. Midland, GA HERE we are!

ps Gary's is much shorter....from what I remember
3 places in Pennsylvania
With summers either at this really cool campground or at the beach...yah life was hard :D
Somers Point, NJ
Glassboro, NJ
and then we connect in Provo, UT
....so he's at about 15

Murphy, Murphy How Does Your Garden Grow?

2009-05-25T16:35:00.003-04:00

I know this has been a burning question for all of you loyal Murphy Matter's followers...so let me update you. So far we're winning the weed war, but we're not getting cocky...the real battles are yet to come.

Here are the stats:
Pea's...enough for daily snacks and some reward for the labor. More than we've ever gotten
before so we're feeling pretty good. Will definitely plant a fall crop.
Onions...small but yummy. Definitely need to research and see why we grew mini onions
Caulifower...bust...nothing, nyet, nada
Broccoli...finally see some mini, mini heads
Red Potatoes... dug up a few plants that died early and got some tiny, yummy nuggets. Mature plants starting to bloom..we're getting excited.
Garlic...total surprise...didn't know we had it...if we can keep the boys from digging it up to look
at it we may actually get a years supply from it.
Red and Yellow peppers: tiny peppers starting to grow but the ants have eaten one...as if their sting isn't bad enough now we have to fight them for our food...$&^% red ants!
Blueberries...our one year in and year out success are lookin' good...about 3 more weeks! We can hardly wait.

Better late than never

2009-05-16T11:42:00.007-04:00

My computer is sick...it needs a Dr visit but house calls are expensive so I'm saving up. I haven't forgotten "ya'll". Thank goodness for my iPhone, it allows me to pop in for a quick blog visit, but leaving comments etc it just too painful. So know I'm thinking of you and looking forward to the day when "yellow power" is healthy and happy again...until then, here's this:

Not your typical spring break...

2009-04-25T16:37:00.002-04:00

Gary's parents were here for the first part of it,
Mychel-Anne arrived home from college,
the weather wouldn't cooperate to go to the beach or the mountains,
but in the end...I got a perfect day!

This is bad....very bad...

2009-03-17T19:11:00.005-04:00

I interrupt my cute St. Patty's post because this just had to be shared. I'm checking email and what do I find but one for my dear, dear husband...at least I think they meant him. My problem is while I think he's awesome and wouldn't trade, sell or barter him for the anything...hmmm, yea I'm pretty sure anything....
I think this is going a little too far:

Dear GARY HERBERT LORD or as I read it:
Lord Gary Herbert (read with british accent)

what am I supposed to do with this...do I tell him someone has promoted him...thinks he's beyond the cat's meow, his true potential has finally been acknowledged? I really don't have the energy for a swelled head right now, but with the status of everything in the world his ego could use a little pumping up. Ahh the dilemma of a loving wife...Advice???

and yes his middle name really is Herbert....after his Uncle Herb....who has moved to Heaven and will hear you if you make fun!

Loved this....and pay it forward reminder...

2009-03-14T20:12:00.003-04:00

Don't forget...if you want to join in the PaY it ForWard fun...go here.

Life lesson: Don't ride your little brother's bike

2009-03-10T12:24:00.007-04:00

unless you want this to happen:
Friday night at the urgent care medical center....probably a chip is their diagnosis....referral for Monday

Monday afternoon: Nearly four hours later - Pretty sure he chipped a bone....cast for 3 weeks...green was the color of choice! Why doesn't the mom get any pain meds?

Pay it Forward....

2009-03-04T10:29:00.000-05:00

Lucky and Blessed!

I've had a couple of friends join in the pay it forward movement on their blogs...how could I resist! I can only speak for myself, but the older I get the more aware I am of my blessings. What better way to remind ourselves of your blessings, show gratitude and share the love than to Pay it Forward! So in that spirit...if you want to join:
1. Leave me a comment saying so.
2. Put a similar Pay it Forward post your blog

I will randomly choose at least 3 people who comment to surprise with some kind of fun goody sometime before Easter (other people are taking a year, but I'd forgot if I tried to wait that long)

Finally a few things/people I'm grateful for:
Lisa...that I could "steal" her shamrock and I knew she wouldn't mind
Snow days in GA!
Friends who volunteer to come to a surprise party...and even suggest the idea
Friends who are willing to give hours of their time to help with a power point project
Hot Chocolate
Snuggling under layers of blankets on a cold night
Kleenex with lotion

How to get church canceled in the south....

2009-03-01T11:31:00.006-05:00

When we arrived at church this morning...

on the way home an hour and a half later when they canceled church....

It's your day Zacy!!!

2009-02-24T02:49:00.001-05:00

I have a secret

2009-02-13T14:48:00.002-05:00

recipe...
I got it from a crazy source.
I need someone else to make it
and
give me feed back
before I share it publicly.
If you like bisque soup
and
want to play
email
call
bring/send treats.

Is there ice cream and cake in heaven?

2009-02-06T12:56:00.001-05:00

I vote Yes and that it's...well...Heavenly!

I always want to send a note...

2009-02-04T21:47:00.002-05:00

I once read the that the death of your child makes you part of an exclusive club you never wanted to join with dues that you'll be paying everyday for the rest of your life. When I hear of someone who has entered our club it devastates me. While everyone has their own unique journey we all share the crushing grief and life time of loss stretching ahead of us. I've never met the Whitt family or their angel daughter Tuesday, but their journey has been inspiring and heart wrenching. Their virtual family is having a special event Saturday....here's how they describe it:

We would like to hold a virtual parade on Saturday, February 7th, for Tuesday (the same day her family is having a celebration of her life parade for family and friends). We want each and every one of you to stop what you're doing on Saturday and spend a little time with your kids on a bike ride or a wagon ride or a sled ride or a skateboarding cruise or a stroll in the park and to photograph it.

I hope you'll join us...can we ever make enough memories with our families? You can go here or here or here to read more about Tuesday. I'm sure there were plenty of her family waiting to greet her, but I like to think Nathan was there too offering to show her around...he's like that...always wanting to be the big brother and share his knowledge. I always wish I could send a note or a hug...I think he'd like a care package from home.

Oh, it just gets better

2009-01-29T22:45:00.003-05:00

Let me set the scene:

Mother of the year, takes her two wonderful sons to a cooking class.
Food was delicious and not tooo hard to make
so realistic mother of the year agrees to make food at home.
Hard working father pays for large grocery bill
due to quality ingredients needed for French and Greek food.

First, the loving mother of the year and chef son make Sundried Tomato and Basil Hummus
Verdict: Not as good as the Cooking Goddess'
Humble mother of year calls Cooking Goddess for advice
Salt
sons with a death wish won't try improved version

Next, ever so patient mother of year and son who is walking a thin line
make Chicken Fricassee
Chicken is cooking
time to add stock and white wine
yes, I did go to the store and for the first time in my entire life buy wine
that would be a WHOLE 'nother post
So, non-alcoholic mother of the year measures stock and then pulls out bottle of wine
crap
it's not a screw top
scrambling mother of the year instructs side kick son to google
how to open a wine bottle
(ok seriously of all the things I thought I'd never say to one of my children
this has to be at the top of the list)
first cork screw (attached to cheap can opener)
breaks
mother of the year now getting desperate sends pirate son
to hunt for another cork screw...(we have to have one somewhere don't we?)
cabela's multi tool...no
generic multi tool...no
last hope...swiss army knife in back of father of the year's night stand...SCORE!
eventually mother of the year and chef son open wine bottle
and continue cooking what had dang well better be the most delicious
and appreciated dinner this year!

family of the year sits down to dinner
verdict: Not as good as the Cooking Goddesses
son who deserves to go to bed with no dinner says
"It must be her pans and her plates 'cause she didn't even make the food, the class did."
older and wiser son says
"we just need to wait a month before we cook any of her food"

done!

Pictures by Zac (aka chef, side kick, walker of thin line etc)

on silver linings

2009-01-26T16:29:00.003-05:00

the things I've learned about trials:
fighting it doesn't help
humility does
complaining, whining, whailing is wasted enegry
prayer is power
doing it alone doesn't work
giving it to God does

for me the silver lining and the hard part can be the same
the overwhelming feelings
of love
divine intervention
and
knowing there is often nothing you can do
but
wait
pray and
trust

The Real Me

2009-01-17T12:54:00.008-05:00

So, this sweet sister emailed me a request for me to answer 5 questions for the getting to know you section of our Relief Society newsletter. I dutifully complied. Imagine my surprise when a sweetened and sanitized version was printed. I believe in being honest, true etc...in that spirit I share my original answers:

Where are you from?
I grew up in Centerville, UT and then Linwood, NJ

What are your talents and interests, or what things do you enjoy?
Spending time with my family, Sleeping, Reading, Scrapbooking, Tetris...in that order

What do you dislike?
Garlic, Cantaloupe, being awakened unecessarily, scary movies (also wanted to say, but didn't dare, people who aren't prepared and waste my time)

Your skills,training, education:
I have a BA in education and a minor in psychology. I can read and watch TV at the same time. I'm better at Tetris on facebook than my daugther Mychel-Anne (she's a freshman in college). I can make bread, jam and a cake for scratch but I choose not to. I'm currently learning how to use itunes.

What callings do you have and/or have you had in the past?

Years in primary, young women's, sunday school and every so often Heavenly Father lets me be a Relief Society teacher. Current serving in my most shocking and awesome calling ever: Primary Chorister. Who knew it gives you rock star status in the children's eyes....a definite bonus.

A Reminder That Matters

2009-01-08T23:45:00.002-05:00

My uncle forwarded this to me and it really touched me in a powerful way...especially when I thought of my children and the children in my life and Who they are!

Christmas Review

2009-01-07T15:04:00.010-05:00

So
we made lots of yummy goodies,
shared some,
flew to Utah,
loved being with Miss Mychel,
fun seeing family,
it snowed so the boys were in heaven,
saw dear friends,
ate yummy food,
yada, yada, yada

all else pales in comparison to my two best Christmas presents.....

drum roll, please

Gary gets the best husband award this year............

yup...he did!!! I'm now the proud, addicted owner of an iPhone and can I just admit
I LOVE IT!!!!!

Present #2...how does it get better than an iPhone?

Check these out!

My amazing baby sister Emily discovered a hidden talent.
(she didn't own a camera for years...
hum maybe that's the secret
does talent store up and then finally burst forth???)
I've been dying to see my children through her camera...

To see more go HERE!

It's all about the MAN!

2008-12-15T19:56:00.001-05:00

My heart hurts...

2008-12-13T16:24:00.004-05:00

So, I've started writing this post many time. It's not very Merry Christmasie (is that a word?) Why now? I guess because once again it's gotten too big and my heart needs to burst.

My life seems to have themes...some come and go and then there is this one thread that is constant, nagging and down right painful...Loss/Grief. I've tried ignoring it, boxing it up and stuffing it in the back, facing it and then moving on.... and for awhile all of those work, but as life would have it before long I'm again faced with another opportunity to be intimately acquainted, again.

Today, it's facing the first Christmas time with half my children gone. It's not what I planned and I don't like it! I tease my sister, Em, because she isn't big on doing things alone. The older I get the more I realize how important it is to have my children around, participating in our family traditions. What makes is worse, what overwhelms me with grief is that this was not the plan...ok, not my plan. Mychel-Anne, I knew that was coming. I had 18 years to prepare. I know it would still have stung, but when you add Nathan's absence...well, it's just too much.

Slowly, patiently, lovingly I think Heavenly Father is trying to teach me to feel. I gotta tell you...not really liken it. Hard feeling are like dental visits...they have a purpose but no need to have them more often than absolutely necessary. But, since all my other methods of dealing with it haven't really been working for me...I'm trying the feeling thing...alright already...can we be done now?

In the end I guess this really is about Christmas. The core. The heart. Jesus. He came for us...each of us. He came for me. He knows me and still loves me...how amazing is that? If you are struggling this holiday season, sista or brother come on over (physically or virtually) and get a hug. I believe in hugs. Words...not as dependable or helpful sometimes. Listening on the other hand....priceless.

Ok...enough feeling for one day. Maybe I'll just go eat some sugar cookie dough. I can tell ya that will make me feel something and look at all the calories I'll save by not having frosting! Mychel-Annie...want some? Come and get it!

Emily Wootton Carmack....it's your day!

2008-12-11T06:31:00.002-05:00

I remember the day she was born, clearly. I came home from school and no one was home. It was a cold and snowy afternoon. I couldn't figure out why no one was there. I was 8. Now before you get all child welfare on me...that's not the point. Hello, I'm not "gifted" but you'd think I'd have paid enough attention to know that my mom was about to have a baby! Who knows maybe I did realize it and just don't remember that part...it was a long time ago (that's not an age crack Em...just my reality) I was so excited when they finally brought her home. So excited I could have caused her early departure from earth.She got pneumonia and had to stay in her bassinet a blanket over it and the humidifier on. I couldn't stand it. I kept going in and lifting up the blanket to look at her. Needless to say, once again, not the brightest bulb.

Anywho, she survived me and is amazing. So amazing I recommend checking out her blogs: here and here. Don't be a hater...I know you're going to wish you were me...what can I say...umm...I'm good at sharing ;D

No surprise to those who know me....

2008-12-10T21:54:00.000-05:00

You Are a Bright Christmas Tree

For you, the holidays are all about fun and seasonal favorites.

You are into all things Christmas, even if they're a little tacky.

What Christmas Tree Are You?

Do Pumpkin Cookies Count as a Vegetable?

2008-12-06T02:05:00.001-05:00

It's been almost a year since Cully came to play with our family Monday thru Friday. He could not be more of a blessing. We're so grateful his parents allow us the privilege of loving him. Plus, seriously...could he be any cuter?

Thanksgiving left over goodness!

2008-12-04T19:52:00.006-05:00

Confession...I saw this on the food network and purposely made green bean casserole so I could make this. I don't like it and we usually have lots left over I end up tossing...oh, not this year!

I don't watch a lot of Food Network Chefs but I do have Semi-Homemade with Sandra Lee set on the DVR.I've learned so many trick...if you haven't seen her show...check it out.

Anyway...here is a yummy, quick left over dinner idea....she calls them Next Day Empanadas.

May I just say...where have I been...parchment paper rocks! If you don't have some...go, seriously...go get some and USE it!

My adaptations are: made my own pie crust...it's fast and easy; used turkey and drop of gravy instead of potatoes and Mexican seasoning. Let me know if you make them and what you do to put your own spin on them.

Bonus recipe from Sandra I also recommend: Turkey Chilaquiles

PSA (public service announcement)

2008-11-25T22:39:00.004-05:00

Note:
Do not throw a hissy fit
(no matter how justified it may be)
while carrying a glass of cranberry apple juice
while walking on light carpet

Do be grateful
for friends
you can call
(ok dear husband can call)
at 9:30 p.m. on a Sunday night
and ask to borrow their carpet cleaner

Finally,
be willing to eat crow
when focus of alleged hissy fit
stays up past midnight
cleaning the carpet
even though he has to be up at 6 a.m.

a painful farewell

2008-11-20T16:12:00.003-05:00

I'm in mouring.
i had to let a new friend go.

iT pains me
I'm having Withdrawals

the worst part is...I was duped

so that none of you experience the same TramA i'll share the depressig details

Last January Gary and I gave up all soda.
it wasn't as hard as I expected, except for the ice.
I lOVe good ice...you KnoW what I mean
sonic, sams, zaxby's

i adjusted..most places have lemonade, but sometimes I need a change.

then, sOnic introduced 1/2 pRice hAppY hr...oH, haPpy Day!
Cranberry slush
real fruit slushes
....life was gOOd!!!

....until yesterday....
when I made a necessary but tragic discovery on the SoNic website
a rt 44 cranberry slush has 616 calories (I could live with that occassionally) and
166 carbs!
You've got to be freakin' kiddin' me....
166
are they out of their minds!

just for comparison
a rt 44 coke has 371 calories and 101 carbs
a large tropical smoothie has 593 calories 146 carbs
a large chocolate malt has 844 calories and 144 carbs

there is no justice in this world.
I've switched over to dark chocolate
given up soda
don't keep chips, cookies, related junk in the house
don't eat fast food
and now...now they've taken away my last drive thru bright spot

....I can't talk about this anymore
....it's just too painful

I

60

2008-11-19T00:12:00.001-05:00

sixty
it's my new favorite
number!
ten MonThs x 1 day at a time =60 lbs!!!

boys.....

2008-11-11T10:39:00.004-05:00

My new motto is...you can't fight 'em so find the humor and share it!

Early this morning Will had to have an upper g. i.

It wasn't too bad but he didn't enjoy
the two glasses of barium
or "pop rock stuff".

We were driving home, his stomach killing him, telling us about
how "gross" (read cool) it was to see the inside of him and how weird it was/is to feel it moving through him.

Zac said something about farting.
To which Will replied: "I can't fart."
Yup, I fell for it...
"Why?", I ask
....wait for it....

"'cause I got junk in my trunk."

boys...ya just never know what's gonna come out.
(I so had to say it...forgive me)

from Mychel-Anne

2008-11-10T08:30:00.001-05:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

hAlloWeEn...ya gotta love it!

2008-11-05T18:35:00.003-05:00

Julie gets all the credit for my wonderful polka dot pumpkin.....
hers are cuter I have to admit...check them out.
2008 will be remembered as the year mom gave in and bought a mask...
We missed having our Mychel-Annie with us....
still makes me feel sad I don't have a picture of her...
first time in 18 year....
this growing up stuff is hard on parents!

we WiN!

2008-10-30T16:38:00.004-04:00

Soooo Close...

2008-10-27T22:08:00.001-04:00

We're holding our breath....

If only we were spontaneous, rich and had lots of vacation time....Gary could be on his way to Philly to be part of the celebration (I'm thinking positive)

PHilly Matters...

2008-10-26T13:28:00.003-04:00

make that...tWo! down and TwO to GO!

ps Nice job Eagles

Goooo PhiLLies!!!!

2008-10-23T13:27:00.008-04:00

One down......only 3 more to GO!

October 1Oth Matters

2008-10-10T15:22:00.006-04:00

I gotta tell you this really is my favorite time of year. It used to be because of my birthday in September and Halloween (I loved dress-up as a kid). Then my Dad died in October and it became a hard time of year. The day he died Gary had stopped on the way home from work to buy a pumpkin at a roadside stand. It was in the dark ages before cell phones. I'd come home between classes to work on a paper when I got the call. I sat holding myself together waiting for him to come home. In he walked with a huge smile and this cute little pumpkin to surprise his new bride (we'd been married less than 5 months). It has become a treasured family tradition that we get our pumpkins every year on October 10th. It's been 19 years and I still miss him terribly, but this has helped me share my dad with my children, honor him, and have a happy activity to look forward to on this day every year. Love ya Dad! Love ya Gar! ...and yes that is me...many, many, many years ago :D

Weekend Update...more reasons I loved it!

2008-10-06T10:18:00.007-04:00

Gary has waited for this day for many, many years....Going to Priesthood session with his sons...we brought an extra son...his dad is currently deployed to Texas so we had the pleasure of stealing him for the weekend.

ps As you can see Zac is into bow ties...if anyone has a drawer full of ones they'd like to get rid of feel free to send one his way. We can't find any locally.

For my sisters...hope you're proud...I got out my fall decorations and did a couple of "set ups". love ya! Yea!!!! it's fAll!

I love today...

2008-10-04T11:16:00.005-04:00

It's Saturday, it's cool, it's sunny and we're all home today...

Toooo Much Fun!!!

2008-10-03T19:26:00.006-04:00

Ya gotta check out this fun site. Make your own family sticker. Mine it too big to fit here so ya gotta scroll to the bottom of my blog to see it. Thanks McMullin's for sharing...love ya!

I'm your mother, not your....

2008-09-25T09:03:00.002-04:00

The all knowing, guru and guide BlAck BoX took me to a rocking blog where she had a great post and invitation to make our own list and join in the fun. So here's mine...if you make one let me know so I can come read yours.

For my two sons...
I'm your mother not your pro wrestling partner
I'm your mother not your lawyer, policeman, judge....parole officer
I'm your mother not your waitress, short order cook or bus boy
I'm your mother not your garbage man, pest control person or maid
but
because
I'm your mother I'll gladly be your sounding board, chef, librarian, advocate, biggest fan, memory maker, record keeper, bank (at least for a little while longer), teacher, and safe place.

For my daughter...
I'm your mother....please still need me or at least act like you do ;D

and for the other man in my life aka BB.....
I'm Not your mother....I'm your wife
I'm Not your secretary...I'm your wife
I'm Not your detective....I'm your wife
I'm Not a mind reader...I'm your wife
but
when needed I will try to be whatever you need since you are my everything!

Black Box...take a trip...

2008-09-24T22:13:00.004-04:00

I discovered a cool widget called "black box". It gives you two choices, pick one, repeat a few times and then you end up at a blog. It's fun. You can enter two choices and add your blog. The widget's down a bit on the right side. Give it a try and let me know if you find somewhere cool. And if it brought you here...take a sec and say, Hi!

Everyone needs their own Cooking Goddess, but...

2008-09-22T19:05:00.000-04:00

you can't have mine. I'm not sharing, so don't even ask! I've been working on this post for awhile and I'm posting it now because she could use your prayers. She's been in the hospital...imagine her torture...sick and having do deal with hospital FOOD! Anyway, I hope it makes you chuckle and remember to send a little love and healing her way. (Note to Cooking Goddess...you may want to either skip this post or have a paper bag handy for any hyperventilation that may occur)

She has changed my life in the following ways:

I no longer put my knives in the dishwasher (usually)
My boys willing help with the cooking and prep work including chopping and cutting (they cut a mean green pepper...safely and properly)
I'm in stirring therapy and re-eduation
Occasionally, I now break one or two of my cooking rules .
I can make a Rue and I'm looking forward to making gravy at Thanksgiving
I want a digital meat thermometer and I know how to use it
My picky, picky daughter has eaten all sorts of new foods and LOVED them
I wash off the tops of cans before I open them....more often that I used too...don't even ask...
I plan my menus a week or two in advance using what's on sale
I look forward to dinner time
I allow other people to cook with garlic in my kitchen, sometimes.
We now have kosher salt and sea salt. We're using up our regular salt and will not buy it ever, ever again!
I've kept a basil plant alive longer than two months and I'm using it. Oh, I love the smell of fresh basil...hmmm I'm gonna go get a fix right now.
Cooking is fun!!!
If we can keep up the current learning curve...my boys should be doing all the cooking by the time they turn 14....need I say more?

Bye, Bye Mom Mobile!!!

2008-09-15T21:54:00.001-04:00

An adorable family with three little kids purchased our van today. It's sad to see it go, but YEA!!! Just had to share :D

I learned a new trick...

2008-09-14T16:40:00.005-04:00

..thanks to Tip Junkie. Did you see my orange gerber daisy up on the address bar and tab? I'm so excited. Orange is special to us because it's Nathan's favorite color and I love him and gerber daisies...... I feel so techy :D Want to be cool too ;) Click here

Want to buy our van....

2008-09-12T20:00:00.000-04:00

Since we're down to four...I no longer need a van....yahoooo!!!!! I love my odyssey, but it is a van. I'm ready to move out of the mom mobile stage. I'd love it to go to a good home so if you're interested...leave a comment. And since my choices are now wide open if you have a vehicle you love...tell me about it. My requirements are not a van and good gas mileage.
2005 * Dark Green * Leather * Seats 8 * dvd system * sunroof and all the regular stuff...air, auto windows and locks, heated front seats etc. Less than 66,000 miles