Everything Happens...

Making it to the Top...At Your Own Pace

2012-02-01T11:32:00.000-08:00

My brother Matt, is a mountain runner. I am not. I prefer a nice flat run where I can get myself into a comfortable pace and run.

Mountain running doesn't offer comfort and requires a totally different strategy.

Lucky for me (sense the sarcasm?), Matt took me on not one, but two, mountain runs this week.

Our first run took place in the beautiful Red Rock Canyon right outside of Las Vegas. Within minutes of our "run," my heart was pounding, legs aching, which quickly led to negative thoughts entering my mind (and maybe a few inappropriate words). I wasn't worried if I was going to make it to the top, I wondered if I would be able to keep up.

After five minutes, I knew I wouldn't be able to stick with Matt's pace (and a slower runner NEVER wants to slow a faster runner). I did what I have always done on my runs with my brother...sent him on ahead. Whew!

I knew if I stayed on the trail, I would be fine.

And after seeing him quickly disappear up the mountain (see above picture...he is a small dot up in the canyon), I was ready to make my own ascent to the top.

Luckily our journey here is set by our own pace not someone else's.

We have a path we can follow. And although the path may be smooth and flat at times, we eventually have to face the mountain and leave our place of comfort. If we are going to make it to the top and reach our goal, we will need to leave the easy path and pace and face the unsteady shale, the jagged rocks and steep climb.

And so it was that day at Red Rock I realized that although each of us vary in our ability, we are all able...we just may take longer than someone else.

Matt made the climb in under 30 minutes. He not only had a body conditioned for climbing but he knew the path he should take. He passed other climbers who commented to me after I asked if they had seen my "jerky brother" that indeed they had seen the amazing runner, my brother, actually "running" up the rocky mountain side.

I on the other hand, took much longer. And although I did pass the other climbers as well (come on people, I am in shape too...just not in "Matt" shape), it took me more time. I ended up taking a few wrong paths, leading to more difficult passes on the rocks. I even had to walk at times.

After reaching the first summit, Matt was there waiting for me (he had already been to the top) ready to join me for the final ascend and lead me to the top of Turtlehead peak.

Together we reached the top.

And as we looked down into the valley below, we both smiled, happy.

(Wait until tomorrow, when I share my thoughts on our Utah climb to Mount Linda!)

Too Long...

2012-01-24T16:15:00.000-08:00

(here is a picture of my oldest...and dang funny brother Mike, his wife Nikki and Garth and I)

I asked Ethan today how long it had been since he had been with all of his siblings. He thought a moment and replied, "a few hours."

I then asked him how long he thought it had been since I had been with all of my siblings. He didn't have an answer so I told him the sad news....

...over 20 years!

It is true. Living on the east coast (and a brother in Alaska, one in Spokane and two in Utah), having babies, losing jobs, getting jobs, lack of funds, etc...has meant 20 years of being apart from my amazing brothers and sister. I have seen them on separate occasions but sadly, it has been too many years since we have all been together!

But that will all change this weekend when we will all come together to celebrate my mother's 70th birthday. This will be a gift for each of us!

I can't wait to see you all.

(by the way...I had better not hear "naughty nails" from any of you)

Before and After

2012-01-24T11:56:00.000-08:00

Ethan is now a member of the brace face/metal mouth club:

BEFORE:

AFTER:

The Hiding Place(s)

2012-01-23T17:12:00.000-08:00

If you are like me, you have children who will eat an entire family size bag of Doritos, Costco size box of Fruit Roll-ups, box of Popsicles, 12 pack of soda, etc...in one day. Don't judge me yet, for I am well aware these items may cause childhood obesity or cavities...it isn't like I have them on hand every day of EVERY week.

I actually do my best to provide non-exciting snacks such as pretzels (they usually last long enough to actually become stale), popcorn (it has to be the "light" variety or it's a goner in one day) and other boring snack items (anyone interested in banana chips...my kids hate 'em) for most of their snacking needs.

But as you know, I am a BIG couponer and it is like way too easy to get FREE "bad" food. I mean, if it's going to be free...I say, "Why not?" The kids love me a little extra that day...and I have to admit, I actually like "bad" food too. Just the other day, my trainer offered me a piece of chocolate (yeah, only 1 piece...totally lame) but instead of the milky variety he scammed me into eating one that boasted 86% cacao...BLECK! I am a total fan of MILK in my chocolate...like 100%. Who wants nasty tasting chocolate? I would rather eat a juicy apple if I am going for "nutrition. However, I will not only eat milk chocolate, I have also been known to be a huge fan of chips and guacamole, Swedish fish and pretty much a ton of other "bad" foods I don't care to mention right now.

Now, don't start freaking out yet...I also LOVE healthy food...AND I DO EAT IT! I just like the unhealthy stuff too. I do understand that I should only partake in these deliciously bad foods only once a day (sometimes twice...okay...on challenging days I may sneak into my closet and eat an entire box of chocolates). And luckily I have the willpower to do so (especially when my jeans are feeling a bit tight).

This finally leads to my explanation of my blog title, "The Hiding Place(s)".

While I have the ability to not eat an entire bag of Doritos (or any other naughty food in its entirety), my children do not. And while I may (or may not...I will not say) partake of one chocolate bar each evening, I will have also eaten a variety of fruits, vegetables, etc throughout the day. So in order to keep proper proportions under control for my junk food craving children, I am forced to hide the more tempting treats.

When I first started "the hiding place," I figured the items were safe and secure. But little did I know, my kids were like bloodhounds when it came to finding junk food.

The first spot, my closet (behind a bunch of clothes), was discovered within two weeks.
The second spot, in the kitchen, in a random cupboard that houses stationary and light bulbs, was detected in less than a week. And from there, the children knew, that somewhere in our house was a "buried treasure." They seemed to "sniff" out the treasure each time I came up with a hiding place.

This week, the "good"s are in the back of my car (take that children). Safe and secure!

And I already have my plan for next week. This brilliant idea comes from my neighbor, Cindy...stored safe and sound in the bottom oven. I think that might just be the best spot yet. I just have to be sure I don't forget about the "treasure" and burn the house down.

You may be thinking, why doesn't she just tell the kids to keep their grimy mitts off the junk? Some may be thinking, "why is she even buying this stuff?" Well...I have and I should. I HAVE told them (and they must be like me and "need" a little pick me up) to please ask before they partake. And I SHOULD maybe not bring the temptation in...but every once in awhile it makes for a little bit of fun!

So if you are like me and you have a hiding spot for your treats, will you let me know where yours is...I am running out of ideas!?

And if this post disagrees with you...I have a bag or two of banana chips just for you.

Introducing...our Family Maid

2012-01-20T16:25:00.000-08:00

Her name is Heather Consuela Porter.

Her passion is clean counters.

Her dream is to have the never ending paperwork, pens, school books, wrappers, empty containers, pencils, papers from school, empty glasses, sticky spots, plates, utensils, hats, socks (yes socks), backpacks, wallets, binders, notebooks, crumbs, milk, etc...that finds permanent residence on those counters organized and/or gone!

She hopes that one day the rule,"no eating in the family room," will be taken seriously. That the large amount of popcorn, cracker and chip crumbs (etc) will not have to be vacuumed up each morning. That the empty drinking glasses and empty snack wrappers won't be left on the floor in the room they shouldn't be eating in in the first place. She has the hope that wrappers won't be found stuffed in the cushions of the couch or stuck in the coffee table drawers anymore. The idea that a garbage can is for garbage might take hold in their hearts and minds.

She has a dream that "projects" that are so fun to do (like cutting up a diet Coke can into small pieces, making a cereal box into a puppet, or cutting up pieces of wood that require Consuelo's craft paint, etc) will be magically put away...in an organized manner (and the cupboard they are kept in will actually close once again upon clean up).

After folding huge piles of clothes and placing them in each child's room, she wishes her instruction to "please put these away" will be understood...instead of their translation of her message as, "please keep them on the floor and step on them for three days."

Consuela thinks that she is getting pay back for the many years her dear parents "begged" her to please keep her room clean. She remembers making a path each evening from her bed to the door, so she wouldn't trip during the night. She may even have a slight hint of a memory of her mother asking her 5 children why it was so difficult to clean up after making a sandwich (I mean seriously...you were asking so much of them). Her dear roommate in college even asked multiple times, "Why do you dump your backpack right here at the front door? Can't you just take it back to your room?"

I mean, who in their right mind, while eating a lemon, (the Novakovich family loves lemons with salt)would shoot each seed between her fingers sending them flying who knows where in the house?

Consuela.

So really deep down she understands...although it doesn't mean she likes it. It just makes the job worth it...because she loves her family so very much.

Deep Breath...

2012-01-19T12:00:00.000-08:00

Take a deep breath...in (slowly) and out. Maybe one more. No make that two more (wait stop, now I am light headed).

Okay. I think am now ready to tackle the second half of this day...are you?

Tonight is Jeff's memorial service.

Many of you have asked if donations can be made for Erin and her 11 month old son, Carter. The Arlington police department has organized a college fund for Carter in Jeff's honor. If you are interested in making a donation,you can make checks payable to Erin McMichael and in the memo section at the bottom of the checks you can add "College Wealth 529 for Carter J. McMichael". She will deposit the checks into this fund set aside for Carter. This would be a huge help to Erin to help make the burden of college feel a bit lighter.

They can be sent to:

Erin McMichael
6060 Clay Spur Ct.
Centreville, Va. 20121

Shattered (only because she didn't listen to her mother)

2012-01-18T07:24:00.000-08:00

Just so you know, you should listen to your mother.

My two older children, make that three oldest (I was just informed by him that my idea of "pants" instead of "shorts" on a cold morning was dumb) are currently at the stage of teenagedom where they truly believe their mother is a big ol' dummy. I have tried to explain to them how incredibly brilliant I truly am...but it is not working. Even after you read this true story, which happened only a few days ago, you will be shocked to find out that my children still don't accept me, their mother, as one who is absolutely right about everything.

Here is the story, "Shattered, Only Because She Didn't Listen To Her Mother"

(great title eh?!)

It was getting late. It seemed everyday was like that, too late to get everything done. By the time, piano lessons were over, basketball practice was complete, dinner, homework...it was always too late. And tonight was no exception, it was too late to run to Best Buy to find a protective cover for Sommer's new iPod touch.

So I offered amazing motherly advice to my darling daughter, who was thrilled with her newest joy, and understandable hard to part with, iPod touch. I told her to please leave it home for the day. I would then go over to Best Buy and purchase a lovely and most protective cover for both the iPod and its beautiful screen. I have come to understand that electronic devices to teenagers are like infants to their parents...they rarely want to part with them.

My daughter then replied, "NO WAY!" She explained there was absolutely no way she could be without her iTouch.

Friday came and went.

Then it was Saturday. Another crazy busy day at the Porter home. Sommer was off to her basketball game with dad and I was planning on meeting them there a little later. It was that morning I offered to once again take the "device" and run to the store to find a case. "Oh no, Mom. That would never work. I cannot leave behind my dear baby (I am referring to the Itouch of course)...even for an hour."

Fast forward one hour.

I enter the gym. I see daughter sitting slumped on the floor. Her peers surrounding her, comforting her as tears stream down her face. I quickly go to her to see what could possibly have happened. And then the news...

Shattered. She had dropped the Ipod, the screen had shattered.

Being the horrible mother that I am , I gave her "the look." It was the "I told you so" kind of look. The look that says everything..."mom's know everything" kind of look. I could have dropped down to her aid and took over the back rubbing that her teenage friend was currently giving (and this friend obviously understood the pain of losing a dear electronic device) but I didn't.

I was a bit "put out" if I must be honest. I was a little offended that once again, my teenager didn't listen to my wise council.

But I did what any loving mother would do (minus the back rubbing)...I took her iTouch and tossed it in the trash....no I am kidding (although that would have been rather fun).

Instead I decided to prove my awesomeness once and for all!

I called the Apple store, got an appointment at the Genius desk. This meant my Saturday was shot but remember, I was on a mission...to show all teenagers that mothers ROCK (and can fix shattered dreams).

After waiting (and praying) for my turn to share my sad tale of a broken apple device, I was greeted by Andy. I told him my tale of woe. He listened. I used my "talent of talk" and did my best to build a quick relationship with this young man. After sharing our story (very similar to the one above) and finding out he knew one of my dear friends, compassion was given as a brand new iTouch was presented to me.

A daughter was elated (and a huggle was received).

(Sommer and her "right" mother)

And another mother's advice in the world....was once again...proven right!

Even Death.

2012-01-16T14:32:00.000-08:00

Everything happens...even death in this life.

It is never easy.

My friend Jeff passed away early this morning. He passed peacefully with his beautiful wife Erin and darling 11 month old son, Carter at his side.

Erin's mother, his father and mother and sister had been with him, night and day for the past 2 weeks. Loved ones said good-bye. Friends were able to visit. It has been a tender farewell to a truly great man.

Erin and Jeff have endured so much the past 2 years. After a struggle to get pregnant, they were given the long awaited news that indeed a little boy was on the way. Only months into the pregnancy, Erin was advised by her doctors that complete bed rest was necessary. And 1 month later (and still on bed rest), Jeff was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

I can only imagine the difficulty it would have been for Erin, her first time carrying a child, to be given the news she must stay in bed...for months unable to attend to her sweetheart. And Jeff, a young healthy police officer, to be given the news, you have cancer and unable to attend to his sweetheart.

Both, so young, with their first child on the way, suffering so much.

And yet, I saw gratitude. Erin was positive. Jeff was loving. They were there for one another.

The baby came. Erin needed to work. Her loving mother came to live with them as a caretaker for both Jeff and baby Carter.

And I saw gratitude. Erin was loving. Jeff was positive. They were there for one another.

Friends from the police department came and helped in their home, finishing the basement, getting the baby's room ready, painted walls, hung pictures, brought dinners and escorted Jeff to doctor's appointments.

Friends from Erin's work, were able to give her time off as Kindergarten teacher extraordinaire, brought dinners and helped in so many ways.

And again and again I saw gratitude. Erin and Jeff were loving and positive...and always there for one another.

Jeff's cancer kept growing. His body, once strong had become weak. The past week he began to quietly and peacefully slip away. He remained long enough for Erin to be ready to say good-bye, for Carter to touch his father one last time, for Jeff's father and mother to hold their son, his sister was able to be there from her job in China and Erin's mother and sisters too were able to bid farewell.

And how blessed I was, a simple friend, to see the love of this family in action. Erin's hand on Jeff's fevered head, holding his hand, whispering of her love (telling him she would be okay if he needed to go). I saw a father who shaved his son's sleeping face, a mother rubbing his sweet feet. Words of love shared to Jeff who was still there, listening and feeling surrounded by love...in so many forms yet unable to respond.

You see, everything does happen. Good things. Hard things. Happy things. Even sad things.

And through everything, we learn so very much.

(Carter and I hanging out last Friday)

You will be missed by so many... dear Jeff.

Getting Fit Friday...Ode to Push-Ups

2012-01-13T06:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I did 15 push-ups.
Today I am totally sore.
Tomorrow I could avoid push ups altogether
or I could do 15 more.

If tomorrow brings a dedicated me
and I take on the challenge I have in mind,
In a few weeks I may have a muscle
something I have been trying to find.

The reality is I have no biceps (I have always wanted them). In fact, I really don't have any muscles. No wait. I take that back. I have one really awesome muscle. Problem is you can't see it. And although I love it very much (my whole body does), it would be nice if it was located on my abs. My heart rocks!

So do those push-ups (or sit-ups, run, walk, swim, WHATEVER) today, and tomorrow...even if it hurts.

Remember:

"If you always do, what you have always done...
You will always get, what you have always gotten."

(see no biceps...Jackson B and I after racing together...he beat me...read about it here)

...and I want some biceps!

Don't Quit, Especially Because You Can

2012-01-12T14:49:00.000-08:00

(thanks Laurel for posting this great quote)

I went to visit my good friend, Kimmy today for a little lunch. Kimmy finished chemo for breast cancer early last year. Just when things looked bright, the cancer was back. She is now on round two of her fight.

We were sitting in her kitchen chatting together with her mom. Kimmy just had a birthday a few days earlier and there were at least three cakes sitting on the counter. I was a bit too obvious and was caught eyeing them. This led to Kimmy's mom telling me that Kimmy actually wanted to go on a diet. She told her mom, "Please no cake. I need to lose these pounds I have put on thanks to all of the drugs I am on!"

Seriously? With everything she is going through, the last thing she should worry about is not eating a piece of cake. The diet can wait.

This led to her frustration with finally joining the gym again and not feeling well enough to even use it! The gym can wait.

And then there were the doctor's orders that she cannot drive. With all of her medication and the tremors in her right hand, driving is out of the question. The car can wait.

She must be very careful picking up her baby because of her recent surgery to remove one of her breasts that ended up causing her severe pain. Even her baby will need to wait (and don't worry, she huggles him plenty).
.
Cancer has forced her to "quit" many things. Things that healthy people, like me, take for granted. I can diet. I can workout. I can drive. I can pick up my baby (he is 7...I only have a limited time left). And I can quit (and do sometimes) at anytime...it really won't matter if I quit any of those things.

And then it hit me.

PEOPLE WITH CANCER CAN'T QUIT! AND THEREFORE...ARE NOT QUITTERS. THEY CAN NEVER STOP FIGHTING CANCER...IF EVEN THEY WANTED TO....THEY CAN'T STOP FIGHTING! WHEN THEY ARE SICK, THEY ARE STILL MOTHERS, WIVES, SISTERS, FATHERS, BROTHERS, FRIENDS, AND WORKERS. PEOPLE WITH CANCER ARE THE OPPOSITE OF A QUITTER...THEY ARE FIGHTERS THROUGH AND THROUGH!

(Kimmy and I hanging at the Shamrock half marathon 2009)

And that is what I learned today. I am not going to "quit." And I know Kimmy isn't going to either!

I am a whiner...now you know.

2012-01-11T07:46:00.000-08:00

Okay. Today is going to be a "Whine Wednesday." I have to be honest with myself, I am a whiner. Let's not confuse "whiner" with "winer"...I don't drink..although I realize neither are great titles.

I like to whine. It makes me feel better. As you know, I am not one that stays in a rut so the whining really works for me. I whine for a bit and then get on with my day. It is normal to have a bad day...I just try not to string too many in a row.

So here I go with my whines:

How long will the mold remain on my tiles?
My handle on my beloved soaking tub is broken again (the cold one works).
Can't towels be used more than once? And why are they all over the floor in MY bathroom?
Bills (enough said).
Why are my pants tight again (don't answer that)?!
Will they ever eat any vegetables?!
Is the garage ever going to be clean?
Is the basement always going to be a disaster?
Did I just see the dog "choo-choo" across my bedroom carpet and leave a stain!?
Sometimes it would be easier to NOT have to clip a coupon.
Can someone besides me empty the overflowing garbage?
Can someone besides me change the toilet paper roll?
No one seems to want a huggle around here!
Sure wish my car's heat worked.
Where is my Ipod!
Saturday's church basketball game was not the best idea...pulled glute still hurts.

Okay. I got my whines out. I feel much better now. And just so you know, I realize that not one of those items listed are really that important (except for maybe the huggle)...

And for those friends of mine who truly have the right to whine and never seem to, I love you.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow!

2012-01-10T07:08:00.000-08:00

After a couple of flurries randomly sprinkled themselves through the month of December, yesterday Haymarket had a truly delightful day of snow. It started around lunch time, the big fluffy flakes falling beautifully down from the sky.

I never thought it would stick. I had just heard the weatherman tell us that we may have a flake or two in the afternoon but it would only make for a few wet roads. Oh how I wanted it to stick! I knew my children were gazing out their windows at school just hoping for a snowy welcome...an afternoon of complete bliss!

But it kept snowing. And snowing. During my first piano lesson at 2:30, the flakes began covering the dirt in the garden. By 3:00, snow was sticking to the grass. By 3:15, the grass was covered. At 3:30, the streets had a white sheen. And by 4:00, when the bus arrived, joyous voices of little children were heard.

Moments later, my children hustled into the house searching for mittens, hats and boots. It wasn't long until the small amount of snow in our yard had been used for sledding, snowman building, snowball throwing and angels.

Just as I was finishing my last piano student, the snowfall came to an end, chilled children came running into the house with red noses and cold fingers ready for hot chocolate and stories to share.

What fun to witness the entire process from beginning to end sitting at my piano, looking out at the happiness.

The complete joy that was created from one flake of snow, then another, made for an entire day of winter wonderland happiness.

Don't Bother With Ruts

2012-01-09T16:55:00.000-08:00

Today I was running with my friend Ann (it's true, it does seem like I run a lot...and I do). She shared with me a thought about ruts, heard from a church service a few weeks ago. This is what I thought about after she shared:

Ruts are quite nice..

How lovely to be cozy and safe, warm and comfortable in a rut! I mean who wouldn't want to sit back and watch the world pass? You would be free from the hustle and bustle of life, free from pain, free from work, free from fitness, free from study, free from pretty much anything hard!

Ruts are quite nice...

I have actually tried a few times to be in a rut. In fact, about 5 years ago, I decided to put myself into a rut. It was MY turn. I got up one morning...wait no, I DIDN'T get up, I stayed in bed. Yeah, you heard me right, I stayed in bed. After hearing the last child shuffle out the door to school and my husband left for work, I started my day of "rutness." I figured I would doze back to sleep, having a lovely snoozy morning and snuggle in my warm down blankets. After slowly waking up, I would turn the television on and watch it...all day. My plan had me eating bon bons, not showering, staying in my PJ's and absolutely not doing any housework...basically my plan had me doing nothing all day long.

Ruts are quite nice...for about 20 minutes.

I tried so hard to fall asleep...but I just lay there thinking about all of the things I should be doing. I pushed those crazy thoughts aside but it wasn't working. I knew if I didn't clean up the morning dishes, no one would. I would simply have caked on bowls that would require MORE work. There would be MORE dishes, stacking up in the kitchen. There would be MORE laundry (I would have to do it sometime), mouths to feed, clothes that would get tighter as I ate more bon bons than calories burned...you get the picture...a rut would create more work for me in the long run.

So after 20 minutes I sat up in bed and got out of my rut. Luckily a 20 minute rut is much easier to get out of then a 20 hour, 20 day, 20 week, 20 month, 20 year...RUT!

I put on my running gear and walked down the stairs. I quickly straightened the kitchen and started a load of laundry. I went for my run, showered and dressed. I planned a lovely dinner after a quick trip to the grocery store. I baked some cookies for the children to enjoy when they walked into the door.

Later that afternoon, my children arrived home. With hugs a plenty and the day's adventures shared (I actually had some of my own)...I realized I didn't ever want to be in a rut...they really aren't that fun.

Ruts may be comfortable (for a bit) but the longer you remain, the harder it is to get out.

So...I am not interested in getting in a rut. I try to keep moving forward with just the right amount of momentum to prevent me from getting stuck in a one. Doing a little bit of this and a little bit of that...keeps me going.

Thanks Ann for our run (I actually thought I may try another "rut" today and stay in bed)...so happy I didn't!

Last Night...

2012-01-07T11:32:00.000-08:00

Dear Erin,

Last night when I received your text letting me know your husband had taken a turn for the worse, I immediately drove to you. I was so grateful your close friends were invited to come see both you and your sweetheart Jeff.

How incredibly strong you have been during this battle...for it has been a wicked fight...for both Jeff AND you. Standing so firm, your strength has been felt by so many, for they have leaned on you as their son, brother, father, and friend has suffered so much.

I remember you sharing with me, a few years ago when we were running together, before the cancer was found, how you loved Jeff, so very much. You told me he was your soul mate and how you looked forward to many happy years together. Who knew that it would be taken away with you both so young. Remember that you and Jeff are still made for each other. You and he are just going to have to wait to be together again for a while.

I will always remember seeing you last night by his side with your sweet hand on his fevered head, whispering to him...I know he could hear you...he wasn't sleeping...just like his dad told you. Jeff knew you were there.

And he will always be there with you and little Carter (as will your family and friends).

(Erin is in the blue cap and jacket)

Love you,

Heather

The Pebble

2012-01-06T17:18:00.000-08:00

I knew right when it happened...the tiny pebble, a touch bigger than a grain of sand, made its way past my shoe and into my sock on my run at the Battlefield this morning.

I ignored it at first but it moved slightly as I took each step, irritating me. I told my friends to go ahead while I quickly reached into my sock and found the little guy. My little problem was solved...just like that.

Moments later, another pebble snuck its way into my sock. I really wasn't interested in stopping again, I figured it would make its way to a section of my sock that didn't bother me. So I ran with that irritating little pebble for a few more miles, feeling it rubbing against my ankle.

I then remembered a 20 mile race I ran with a friend a few years ago. We ran separately but passed each other a few times during the race. At one point of the race, waving at one another as we passed, she said, "There is something in my shoe...it's irritating me." I said, "Stop and find out what it is." And then we passed and I didn't see her again until the end of the race.

At the end, we met up to discuss our individual races. She told me she needed to take a look at the bottom of her foot. It had bothered her the entire race but she didn't want to take the time to remove the irritant. She sat down and pulled her shoe off. Her sock was covered in blood and she had a blister that covered the bottom of her entire foot. Seconds after removing her sock, a small pebble fell to the ground.

After recalling that memory, I told my running buddy I needed to actually sit down and get the pebble out of my sock. It then realized why these pebbles kept getting involved in my run. My shoelace had loosened and was allowing debris from our trail run to get into my shoe and sock. After only a few miles of running with this tiny pebble, my ankle was actually a little red. I can only imagine the outcome if I would have ignored the small irritation I was experiencing and let it cause a larger problem in the long run.

We all have little "irritating" pebbles make their way into our lives. If we chose to ignore them, they can make what may seem a small problem and it can become something that requires much more attention.

My amazing friend Vanessa has a pebble in her life right now...she is fighting breast cancer. She is the epitome of health. She eats right, she exercises... and she lives the lifestyle she is passionate about. Through months of intense chemo, it didn't take her long to know what to do with her pebble. A busy woman in the community, active, a thriving business...Vanessa stopped and removed a pebble. She surrounded herself with her dear family, cherished friends and held them close. During her own struggles, she spent time with others in need, inspiring them. She knew to let less important things go...and took hold of those things that needed her attention...those things that mattered most.

And although that pebble was there, she stopped, removed it and runs on...

(after our 10 mile run this morning...and...Vanessa is running Boston in April!)

To learn more about Vanessa's Healthy Lifestyle go here!

Sometimes we need to get rid of those outside influences that tend to clutter our lives. I have shows that can go, web surfing that can be left at bay, times I should say "no"...we all do.

But don't wait...it causes a lot more pain if you run with that pebble for too long.

I Didn't Cry Over Spilt Milk Today!

2012-01-05T17:38:00.000-08:00

I almost cried over the spilt milk today...but I didn't. Even after seeing the entire gallon of milk spilled (and down the front of the fridge) on my garage floor, I didn't cry.

I didn't even shed one tear when I almost stepped in my dog's doodle-lee-bop a few hours later (that's what I call a number two around here) he left TWICE on my upstairs carpet...and fyi it wasn't in the easier to clean, "log form."

And yesterday, when Ashton came in my office to see if I would help him tie his shoe and proceeded to sit on and break my $250 RayBan sunglasses...I watched HIM shed tears while I kept my eyes dry and my countenance calm. I was actually more upset my genius 7 year old can't figure out how to tie his own shoes.

Maybe I have finally grown up when it comes to minor incidents around here (at least this week). I'll admit, there have plenty of days "I lost it" when certain children have broken pens in half, spraying black ink on my white carpet and walls. Or I found an entire bottle of honey poured out in the top of the cabinet (and had been there for months before I found it). I will always remember the SUPER SIZE bottle of Downy that fell over in the back of my car driving home from a Costco trip (the stain remains to this day as well as the fresh scent)...try cleaning that up!

Kids spill milk, they also break things, dogs chew up your favorite running socks (seriously why are they always my good socks), stains are made, and on and on the list goes...

I have been told that they make for some pretty good memories one day. Promises have been made by the older generations that one day I will long for the days of boogers stuck to the walls like glue (is that TMI?), tripping on backpacks placed exactly BELOW their hooks, twisting my ankle on shoes left out, trying to scrape off Fruity Pebbles from unrinsed cereal bowls, unflushed toilets, peed on toilets...not peed in (and walls, and floors and...), piles of legos, hot wheels, once folded clothes now strewn wildly about in a heap, piles of unmatched socks that no one seems to match, missing candy from my secret (obviously need to hide it better) stash, my good running socks used by all sons (because they are matched and put in my drawer), my ipod missing (again, because it is always put away), the screeches that come from siblings teasing each other (just heard one)....

(two of my children in the process of making me some memories)

Thinking about all of the fond memories that I have already had AND THOSE TO COME are bringing tears to my eyes...oh wait...no, that is just a little dust floating up from my dust covered desk that I can't seem to find the time or one of the other 6 people living here to wipe clean...memories, oh memories.

Do It but Don't Over Do It!

2012-01-04T18:52:00.000-08:00

Last week I realized I had become addicted to the popular game, Words With Friends (which my older children have informed me...I am totally behind and that trend is so over).

I love spending those moments in my day that should be spent simply sitting patiently...like at a traffic stop for 2 minutes (can't do it) or while I wait to cash a check for 90 seconds (nope just can't sit there) playing WWF. It is the perfect (and quite educational...if I could actually remember the awesome words I play) time killer! My impatient feelings and anxieties associated with having to "wait" upon doctors, lunch dates, kids to come out of practices, oh yeah, traffic lights etc., have completely dissipated since WWF.

Until last week...

Our family was headed to Williamsburg, VA (a 3 hour drive). Garth was listening to music, the kids were watching a movie and there I sat feeling a bit bored. I had already checked all of my friends status updates on Facebook and made my moves on the three WWF games I was currently playing. So instead of enjoying the music, starting a lovely conversation with my husband, losing myself in my thoughts, or simply enjoying the beauty that passed by my window, I came up with what I thought was a better idea.

I posted on Facebook that I had indeed become addicted to WWF and was looking for some new opponents. I was currently playing with 3 friends and loving the ease and joy it was trying to come up with great words that gave me the upper hand (Jean and Paige, please don't mention the final scores of those games). It was a blast. So I figured that more games would equal more fun, right?! I mean, I was totally bored (or at least thought I was). I was waiting for my opponents to make their move...I had already made mine.

Within minutes of making that comment, I had 4 friends invite me to a game. I was over the moon! I immediately started plotting and planning each word and placing the letters on the best places! And then there was another invite...and another..and yet another. I said yes. And then yes. And yes. It didn't take long until I went from playing 3 people to 20. Needless to say, the ride to Williamsburg went quickly...I was so busy with all of my WWF "work" I now had to do.

When I returned home late that night, I lay in bed, working the letters to each game to get the upper hand on each opponent.

But it didn't take long before I started losing control. I had so many games and so many letters that I couldn't see straight. I was getting no where fast. Friends would blast me with 80 point words and I would feel not only plain ol' bad but actually stupid.

So then I started studying J-words, and Z-words, and words with X's in them...I was literally taking hours of my day to play these silly games. What was a fun activity to fill a few extra minutes in my day turned into a full time job.

It became a disaster.

How many times do we take a "good" thing and it becomes a mess? My dear friend, Jean shared a quote with me last week,

"Just because you CAN, doesn't mean you SHOULD."

So as this new year begins and you surround yourself with goals a plenty, be sure to chose those things you should.

Do Something but don't do EVERYTHING!

I have always loved the words from Dallin H. Oaks in his talk, Good, Better, Best.

"We should begin by recognizing the reality that just because something is good is not a sufficient reason for doing it. The number of good things we can do far exceeds the time available to accomplish them. Some things are better than good, and these are the things that should command priority attention in our lives."

Simply pick one or two things you want to do this year and gosh darn it...DO IT...but Don't OVER DO IT!

Focus on the BEST in You!

(and by the way, here is a list of Q-words that don't need a U)

QINDARKA QINDARS QINTARS QWERTYS FAQIRS QANATS QINDAR QINTAR QWERTY SHEQEL TRANQS FAQIR QAIDS QANAT QOPHS TRANQ QAID QATS QOPH QAT

Sister Friends

2012-01-03T11:53:00.000-08:00

I love my sister friends. You know what I am talking about. It is more than a simple friend (and don't get me wrong...I love those too). But there comes a point when certain girlfriends, stop being friends and become sisters.

I have been blessed with many sister friends throughout the various stages of my life. I have needed each one of you.

And as these various chapters of life have come to a close and new chapters begin, I have remained dear friends with these women. No time or distance has come between the bonds that were built.

This post is dedicated to you.

I thank each of you for being there with me:

As a teen
As a college student
As a young mother
As a not so young mother

And I plan on having you there with me until THE END...

How About a Huggle?

2012-01-01T14:08:00.000-08:00

I have two hugglers left.

The older three think I am weird.

I will enjoy this opportunity with Tate and Ashton while I have them under my spell...and huggle away.

...or I can use my "bribe" technique when I really want my 14 year old son to give me a good huggle

Oh, I am sorry, you are probably wondering what in the world a huggle is...

A huggle means I get a nice loooonnng hug. At the moment when one feels the normal hug time is over...you must linger a little longer, ending with a final squeeze. And for good measure I usually give a good cheek kiss too (then you are experiencing a kuggle...even better)!

That's a Huggle!

Now here is the secret to making this work:

When Calvin wants to hang out with a friend or get a ride somewhere, I say, "Sure, but I want a huggle first." A 100% hug guarantee just like that (and I know deep down he loves it too)!

So for all of you who have little ones right now, clinging to you every moment of the day...soak it up (and no worries, you can still have "me" time after you put them to bed).

...because my big handsome 14 year old used to follow me around too the house when he was the dang cutest binky lovin' toddling toddler...and I really miss that little guy.

But I really love the man he is becoming too!

I think I need a huggle!

The Great Grate

2011-12-31T06:01:00.000-08:00

I like water. I like to drink it. I like to lay by it while sunning at the beach. I like how it can cool me off when the humid summer has taken over. I like how it warms me up after a chilly morning run.

But I am scared of water. It is rather silly actually. You see, I just may think a "shark (I use that term lightly)" is going to get me. This fear of a shark "getting" me can occur in an obvious place such as... THE OCEAN! But embarrassingly enough, this fear can present itself while participating in sharkless places such as a lake, river or even a swimming pool (yep, I said a pool).

I noticed my little "problem" as a teen-ager. I loved to swim laps in our indoor pool in Alaska. We were lucky, in such a cold place, our little neighborhood had this pool. Surprisingly, it was rarely occupied during adult lap swim. And although one might think this was a good thing, for me, I quickly found out it was not.

One day, while swimming, as I made my way toward the deep end, I glanced down and noticed at the very bottom of the murky water, a grate. I remember thinking to myself, "Whoa, this water is deep! Why is the water so much darker down there? And geez, what the is under that grate...sharks?"

I seemed fine in my thoughts until I reached the other side and headed away from the deep end. As I swam further from the "deep," thoughts started creeping into my head such as, and not limited to, "has something entered the water through that grate?, is it coming towards me?, why am I here alone?"...and so forth.

And just like that, from that day on, I had a fear of water. I bet your wondering if I swim today....hang on a minute.

I bet you have a GREAT GRATE you are dealing with right now. We all do. Sometimes these grates are small but seem so scary (these can be really tough because others may not know). Other times, they are so large, it's obviously frightening.

This year, like you, our family has had our fair share of "sharks under the grate." This go 'round of trials, was in no way easy. But interestingly enough (durng my own tribulation), I was given the opportunity to journey with a few other dear friends during their battles...making mine seem so small.

It was like I was given a pool of the clearest water (probably bottled Fiji). Handed to me, were goggles, with the perfect fit (no leaks, no painful circles forming under my eyes). The lenses were free from scratches, they didn't fog, enabling me to see the entire body of water with clarity. The cool water clear, I could see all the way to the bottom...and there was no grate.

So back to me and my fear of water.

I was given Jack. Our dear elderly neighbor Jack. He never knew I had a fear of sharks in our pool. He didn't realize that the grate at the bottom scared the living daylights out of me each time I turned my back on it. He was just there, each day...swimming.

But you know what, I was able to swim because of him.

And today as long as I have someone with me, I can swim...I know you can too.

I Double Dare YOU to Become More

2011-12-29T14:29:00.000-08:00

I love many things...

I love Garth (duh). I love my 5 children (double duh). I love to play the piano. I love to bike. I love to go to the movies (and after free popcorn was offered from Regal this summer...I love that too and unfortunately am now addicted). I love to shop for a bargain. I love to decorate my house. I love clothes. I love to travel. I love reading. I love my big family. I love helping others.

The list could go on and on...

To be honest, I used to have the belief, if I wasn't "the best" at one specific thing, I was lacking some how. If I wasn't the fastest runner (my brother), the smartest (my other brother), the funniest (and yet another brother), the best pianist/singer (sister)...and so on with pretty much "everything" or "anyone" that happened to surround me throughout life than gosh O' golly I wasn't good enough.

It wasn't until my senior year in high school that I realized how wrong I had been...and how talented I actually was...at most things.

The difference was I wasn't actually the BEST at any one thing, I was Pretty Good at many things. And you know what? I LOVE THAT ABOUT ME.

I am a pretty fast runner, quite smart (math is another story), actually pretty funny (I laugh at my own jokes all of the time), can play the piano quite well (and teach even better...have I mentioned I play the organ too). I am pretty good looking, not shabby in the style department, enjoy a good alto part, can follow a recipe to a T...

Someone will always be smarter, prettier, faster, skinnier, more spiritual...but it is about daring to become more. The competition is NOT with your neighbor, it is with YOU.

So this year I double dare you to become more.

And encourage those around you to do the same...

To Run is Fun...

2011-12-28T14:47:00.000-08:00

...or bike, hike...whatever gets you moving!

I have been thinking about the joy that running has brought into my life over the past 25 years. I have been able to spend time with my wonderful brother Matt on long runs (well sort of, usually he is about 3 miles ahead), hike with my sister-n-law Tiffany and other dear friends, bike with an awesome group of haymarket women, run races in totally cool places (with cool people), become a better swimmer, more efficient biker, faster runner...mostly because it has been fun!

Now...it hasn't always been easy.

To become faster, you need to run faster. To go farther, you need to stay on the road longer. To keep up with a large group on steep hills, you have to be willing to climb.

Is this the year you plan on having some fun?! If you take that first step (literally), you will grow in so many ways...and experience some serious joy.

Enjoy some of my running/hiking/biking experiences over the years!

Riding with the Buttercups!

More Buttercup fun (our motto: Suck it Up Buttercup!)

Accepting the win at a local 5k

Boo and I after running Cherry Blossom 10 Miler!

Ann and I at Boston

Linda and I at Boston

Stephanie and I at Nation's Marathon 2011

Rob, Linda and I at Nation's Marathon 2010

Running my 5k PR 2010

Friends at Shamrock Half Marathon

Training run at Burke Lake

Burke Lake Training run

Hiking flattop in Anchorage

Hiking across gorge in Alaska

Crazy training run

First (and only) bike race

Running my first Boston Marathon

Matt and I after my first marathon

My shining moment when I found out a photographer used this photo for the 2009 Richmond Marathon brochure.

So my advice...start running (or doing something you love), you won't regret it!

We Love The Movies!

2011-12-27T08:35:00.000-08:00

This year has been rather tough financially for us. Garth lost his job in April and man 5 kids can be expensive (not to mention Garth and I)!

But the blessings of FREE movies came along when I found packages of M&M's with codes inside for $3 off a movie ticket (or concessions). When I combined the right coupon with the store that offered the cheapest packages of M&M's, I ended up getting a rather lovely supply of candy AND free movies.

It has been wonderful having the ability to take the whole family to a movie (stress free) AND get popcorn and a drink for absolutely free!

I have recently seen some packages of M&M's with the offer of FREE Movie Tickets on the outside, so be on the lookout!

And when you combine deals like these with theatres matinee prices and their concession coupons, you can really save big!

This week at Regal, you can go here and give them your cell phone and they will text you a mobile coupon for a $2 popcorn and $2 drink. Did you know you can ask for the larger size for only a dollar? Often large popcorn and drinks can be refilled...we share one of each with the whole family!

This week we saw Mission Impossible (and even took Aunt Lisa)! That was 8 tickets ($72), a large popcorn and large drink...for a grand total of $100...costing us a mere $3!

By the way, both Mission Impossible and WarHorse were fabulous movies!

We All Need More Charity...

2011-12-26T17:34:00.000-08:00

I love, love LOVE this story!

Click here to watch...before you do...be sure to gather the kids!

Thanks Shawni!

Brittany's 2011 Surprise Gift to Her Parents

2011-12-26T11:05:00.000-08:00

Brittany and I have started a Christmas tradition where we secretly plan a special gift from her to her parents. You see, Brittany doesn't have the ability to get out and go shopping for her most wonderful parents. But I know she still wants to give...

This year, my lovely friend (and photographer extraordinaire), Jean, came to me with an offering of her services. We decided we would sneak over to Brittany's house and have a secret photo shoot!

You may think this would be an easy process. It was NOT easy but man did we have fun. I first had to ask Brittany if she wanted to even participate (since she was the model and all). After getting a "yes (this is done by Brittany putting her little hand over to her right knee...that means yes)," the preparations began.

She first needed a new outfit, perfect for the shoot. I went over to Justice and picked out three complete outfits. While her parents were out, I showed her all three...she chose her favorite one.

Then came the hard part...when could we find a time to sneak over?! You see, Brittany is fed her meals through a tube..it takes 2-3 hours...(we didn't want a tube in the feeding for this model)!

And...between numerous doctor appointments, physical therapy, it was next to impossible to coordinate this small frame of time with Jean's schedule (and with Sommer too...she was our hair and make-up artist for the shoot).

After finding exactly ONE hour that fit everyone's schedule, we waited until both mom and dad were out. Brittany's nurses let us in and the secret photo shoot began. The new outfit was put on, hair was curled and styled and a little make-up applied.

We all lifted, positioned and helped get Brittany ready for Jean to take the perfect picture.

And did she ever. Here are are favorites!

I requested Jean take a picture of Brittany's feet. To read the post I wrote earlier this year about her sweet feet click Here.

Merry Christmas to the Leap Family!

Christamas Was Wonderful

2011-12-25T15:44:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas!

Brooke and I had to take this shot following our darling daughters, Sommer and Suzanna's modeling session...like mother like daughter!

After our amazing friends and family left for the evening from our annual Christmas Eve party (Mexican fiesta, Gingerbread House decorating contest, present exchanges and Charades!), we finished the evening with a sibling gift exchange and new PJ's!

This all happened after a small fight broke out, followed by frustrated parents, threats, lecture and forgiveness. This led to us reading from Luke, having each family member read a few verses (which Ashton ended up taking over) and Garth expounding on the beautiful Christmas message.

Early (much too early), we were awakened by all FIVE (I was shocked) children asking for "release" to the family room to see if Santa had indeed come...and did he ever! We feel so blessed this year (after quite a doozy) to find Garth feeling much better AND with a NEW job!

The day seemed absolutely perfect, having the opportunity to go to church for a music filled meeting and great speakers sharing the history and their testimony of each Christmas song presented! It was pretty awesome if I say so myself (thanks Garth for the help)!

We ended our day at Grandpa and Grandma Gair's (with Aunt Lisa too) where Grandpa plotted the most amazing surprise for Ethan. He asked Ethan to bring his guitar (and Sommer, Tate and Ash to plan on playing a piano piece) to share. While the other kids were performing, Pop-pop snuck into his room and "exchanged" Ethan's old guitar for a BRAND SPANKIN' RED DREAM guitar Ethan had been eyeing. As he unzipped his guitar bag, he looked confused and pulled out the coolest guitar. He immediately set it down and ran into Bruce's arms saying, exclaiming, "Thank you Grandpa!"

All the other kids were spoiled too and showered with love and perfectly picked out gifts (and totally spoiled once again).

Happy, Merry, Wonderful Christmas indeed!

TOFW in Richmond

2011-11-17T11:59:00.000-08:00

Man oh man was I in need for "Time Out For Women" this year! And thankfully, two of my wonderful girlfriends were able to join me in my adventure...thanks Michelle and Jill!

I was SO excited to be able to sit and bask in the wonderful words of the presenters! I was especially grateful to see my dear friend Shawni and her mother Linda, share their thoughts on motherhood...did I need that!

I was thrilled to hear Jason Wright speak too (an old friend from our Oakton days) not to mention the other presenters that I always love!

And finally I was able to hear Jericho Road, the "mormon" boy band I have heard about for years but never actually heard. Needless to say, I have a crush or two now!

It was amazing to run into so many friends from my past days in the Oakton ward. Living in the same area for 18 years will do that...make you a lot of friends...that you get to see every now and again...LOVE IT!

Thank you both Shawni and Hilary for the VIP seats and the opportunity for lunch with all of the presenters. I felt so loved and my cup was filled!

Road Trip to North Carolina

2011-10-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

Did you know that the farthest I have ever driven by myself is maybe 2 hours?! It's true. Well I crushed that old record on Friday when I went to visit my dear friend Michelle in North Carolina! I got up at 5:15 am, dropped Sommer off at seminary and started my drive.

I must say I was amazed how quickly it actualy went. I asked a few people what in the heck I was supposed to do for 7 hours. I mean, I only have so many thoughts and who wants a one sided conversation?!

I was thrilled with lovely phone calls from friends while I drove.

I was thrilled with the book on tape I had.

I was thrilled to sing along with the radio.

We had a great visit! We were able to sit in Michelle's backyard and visit in the 75 degree fall weather while Chase played. We went to our favorite restaurants, watched a movie, chatted all night long...it was so lovely.

And then it was time to drive again.

It wasn't bad at all.

I think Garth and I have a future retirement plan now...driving (did I actually say that)!

Beach, Birthday and Bowling

2011-09-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

BOWLING

We had the first Bowl-A-Rama bowling tournament this summer hosted by the Porter Family. Couples from all over the area participated in the event. Two games were played, scores were averaged and awards were presented.

Dan and Lynette came to rock the alley...and boy howdy did they ever...BEST TEAM UNIFORM by far!

Robbie bowled the highest score, receiving the coveted "Top Bowler" trophy.

A few Liters of soda were given away to the top male and female "crusher." Dave and I each took that home!

If you ever wondered what I looked like with half an arm....Jared took the "most Strikes" trophy.

Garth was presented with the "You Stink" award, receiving a 4-pack of toilet paper. I am so proud. Our next tournament will be held in October! Time to hit the lanes!

Birthday

I decided to turn 40 this year. What fun! I should do that more often. Garth organized quite the gala. With a house full of dear friends, Cafe Rio was eaten and Couples Bunko was played!

Beach

We hit the beach the week before school and the week AFTER the hurricane (thank goodness!). This lucky planning led to an extremely quiet beach. What fun!

Thoughts On Forty

2011-07-29T16:53:00.000-07:00

In a week I will be turning 40. I was totally fine with the idea until my arm started hurting a few months ago. I think it's tendinitis. Simply straightening my arm hurts like the dickens. Garth laughs and says, "You've joined the forties club...welcome."

And then there is the memory loss. My kids wonder why I ask them something and moments later I ask them again (or at least that is what they tell me). I guess I can't remember. Garth thinks it is funny (unless he is the one listening to me re-ask a question). 40?

What about my first mammogram results!? Grateful to be cancer free but what is up with my ob/gyn calling to let me know he sees "early vascular calcification in my right breast coronary artery?" Heart disease? Seriously?! I don't eat that much guacamole (and isn't that good fat)! I could always start exercising...oh wait...already do that. Forties?

And speaking of exercise...yesterday I went out for a ride on my bike. Four miles in my head started pounding. I had to stop. I took a drink of water. Loosened my pony tail. Took off my helmet for a few minutes. I tried everything to relieve the pain. In all my life, I have never had to call Garth to pick me up while out exercising...forties I tell you.

So turning 40 never really bothered me. And maybe it won't since I am only 39 and that is when I am experiencing all these weird symptoms (remember hernia surgery and gall bladder removal). Maybe next week when I do hit the big 4-0, I will feel better.

I will let you know!

The Fourth...the Plains Style

2011-07-11T17:35:00.000-07:00

We love going to the Plains each year with our caravaning friends! This year was the best when we were ushered into the huge grassland parking lot to the ultimate spot! We were all placed right in front of a huge polo field. The kids were able to play and run to their hearts content...the adults sat and chatted to their hearts content...PERFECT.

After a little Frisbee action, water balloon toss and light stick fun, we enjoyed an amazing firework show.

New York Road Trip

2011-07-10T18:43:00.000-07:00

In a matter of 5 hours we left VA, entered MD, PA and finally hit NY stopping in Binghamton to visit Aunt Lisa!

We hung out at Lisa's Thursday evening, seeing a movie, going to dinner and being treated to Italian Ice and Custard!

The next morning we left for Fayette, the home of the Whitmer Farm, where Joseph Smith finished translating the plates and the church was officially established.

We caught some brotherly love!

These two sure love each other!

And these two do too!

Our next stop was the Hill Cumorah, where we climbed to the top of the hill where the plates were hidden.

Below the hill, the pageant takes place.

When we came 8 years ago, we were too late and were unable to climb to the top of the hill. So happy we had the chance this go around.

Here we are in the sacred grove. The place where our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph. The kids look very excited...remember...we had a lot of car time...squished together.

We "happied" up for this shot. The grove was truly amazing and such a peaceful place.

That night we attended the pageant. Thankfully both Tate and Ashton fell asleep so it was completely enjoyable. Garth was consistently giggling at the HUGE arm movements made by the actors so the many people in the audience could tell who was talking.

We loved when Christ came down off the hill from the skies as he appeared to the people.

The next day we headed to Niagara Falls. We were told that the "Canadian" side was much more desirable but with no passports we had to simply gawk at the other side. The American side was rather disgusting and run down.

Here is the Canadian/American border.

The kids were thrilled to put on their rain ponchos for the Maid of the Mist ride...that was until we all started sweating profusely.

The falls were breathtaking.

We all got wet.

We all loved the ride!

The kids enjoyed goofing around on the rocks along side the falls. Luckily no one fell in...just kidding...we weren't even close.

What an amazing trip!

Loving the Lake!

2011-07-05T17:22:00.000-07:00

Days are flying by...thank goodness for FWC (friends with cameras)! We spent the weekend with Grandma and Grandpa at the lake. Aunt Lisa, Cousin Elizabeth and the Whitesides joined us for the fun. And boy howdy was it fun!

Between waveriders and boats, food and fireworks (Lisa brought the most DAZZLING display), dock jumping and fishing...fun was in full abundance.

Beach 2011

2011-06-24T16:02:00.000-07:00

Each year we head to the beach...and camping for a weekend of FUN!

1. There was plenty of sand burying

2.Teenagers hanging out.

3. Little Ashton being cute.

4. Adults being even cuter (nice burn).

5. Jason sinking in the sand and getting extremely short.

6. Cool Pre-teens.

7. Snacking galore.

8. Friendship bracelet making.

9. More teenager hanging out.

10. Family and Friends!

A Day or Two in the Life

2011-05-14T19:16:00.000-07:00

Thought I would post a few random picures:

Sommer has the most amazing eyes...lucky.

A day in DC...sitting on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial.

Garth contemplating life...

Joey contemplating life...

Ethan being his cool self.

Water fun.

More water fun.

Cool Sommer and Ethan.

Fighting the Fight...and Finishing Stong!

2011-05-11T12:16:00.000-07:00

For the past few months it seems like running races was the main event around here. And although I am no Matt Novakovich (who now holds the Skinny Mini Sub-5)...I do get my inspiration from my amazing brother!

It has been an amazing "run" the past few months. This marathon go 'round was different with the added opportunity to raise money and run in honor of Brittany Leap who suffers from NBIA. Running for someone who not only can't run but can't live without the constant care from her parents or nurses humbled me.

We have had some challenges of our own at the Porter House. And although there were days where life seemed a bit too hard to bear, I knew I was strong enough. Seeing Brittany's mom with gloves on ready to fight the fight for her daughter...gave me strength. Having my dear friend Erin see her young husband suffer from brain cancer while caring for a newborn gave me strength. BethAnn, who also suffers from brain cancer, running marathons, finishing Ironmans and raising tremendous amounts of money and awareness gave me strength.

We all are given our challenges and expected to fight. Are we ready with gloves on? Do we have our friends and family in our corner giving us a last minute squeeze on the shoulder and bits of advice? Have we prepared previously with faith planted solid in the ground that we can win the fight? And when things get so hard that you might think you can't take another "punch," do you muster the strength to stand firm?

I think you do.

Now that the marathon is over, I can simply run. And last weekend, our school sponsered a little 5k in our neighborhood. I was hoping to have a couple of my children run with me...but I couldn't seem to get anyone on board. But luckily the speedy neighbor boy, Jackson was planning on running and asked if I would run with him as a pacer. I thought that would be fun...to try to keep up with him that is.

So I ran another race...began another "fight." This fight was completely voluntary but remarkably similiar to how life's battles seem to go.

Thankfully, each of our trials do come with a finish line. It us up to us get ourselves there. Sometimes it is a quick fight. Other times they seem to drag on and on with no end in sight (kind of like a marathon). But we all know there is an end to every race...a Finish Line!

When the race starts, everyone seems to be strong. Some even feel so good they start out at a pace that is much too fast and can hurt them in the end. It is important to run your race not someone else's.

Each step takes you closer to the finish. Having someone to run with keeps you on track.

Our friends cheer and give us the final words of encouragement before we hit the final half mile. At this point we are tired (especially after conquering a long uphill battle...sometimes our "race" has battles within the battle) and giving our race everything we have...or at least what we think we have.

I tell Jackson at this point to go on without me. He is trying to catch a boy just yards ahead. I don't need to catch him...it isn't necessary for my race. And besides, I couldn't if I wanted to. He has more to give in his race.

It is the final moments of the race before we see the finish line. We all know exactly where it is. We are all tired. We can hear the crowds cheering for us. They have been waiting (in this picture you can see finishers number 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6...I had no idea that girl and my competition was that close!).

One more crest to reach the finish. The final push. There is no way you will slow now...the finish is right there. But it is at this point of the race, it where you hurt the most.

I am thinking, drive forward, be strong, finish the race...heck, win it!

Rounding the corner, I see the finish line. I see Garth. I see friends.

My moment of pain is coming to an end. I give the final seconds all I have, pushing my body even harder.

I finish.

And although Jackson and I do not finish together, we both finished the race we started.

It is a wonderful feeling knowing you pushed yourself as hard as it could be pushed. It is an even better feeling knowing you won. That is the main reason I love to run, everyone is a winner. Whatever time you cross the finish, is your winning time! Everyone is given the same race course, it is up to each of us to finish...and finish strong!

Boston Marathon Recap

2011-04-22T14:19:00.000-07:00

To read all about my Boston for Brittany Maraton experience go here

Kids are Cool!

2011-04-13T16:26:00.000-07:00

(Ashton being "cool")

You all know I think Brittany is the coolest kid around. My kids are pretty cool too. So are your kids...all rockin'! Kids really do amazing things.

I mean, just today I went to visit Brittany in the hospital (great excuse for me to have Chipotle with Sandy)...yes, she is hanging out there again (breathing issues). When I arrived she had just fallen asleep as her mother was reading to her...a tough night makes for a sleepy day.
As I was just about to leave, she awoke. She forced her tired little hand out from under her sheet and lifted it to mine. I squeezed it. I told her I was ready to run the Boston Marathon for her. The best fun was telling her all about my cool race outfit...complete with BOSTON FOR BRITTANY (in zebra letters) on the front and GOOGLE IT on the back! I think she approved!
So, you know I think the world of Brittany. I love hearing about other children that are "outta of this world" awesome. Can I share the story of Dayton's Legs with you?
Do enjoy this touching story!
We can all give...in so many ways...whether it is our time, our touch, our talents. Don't hold back on giving.
"Be grateful for every opportunity to serve. It helps you more than those you serve."

You can still donate to the Boston for Brittany NBIA fundraiser!

Going the Extra Mile...and Reaping the Reward

2011-03-30T05:55:00.000-07:00

You are all good people. You do good things. You do so much for your families, church groups, friends and neighbors, teachers...so many wonderful things are done by YOU! As I ran last Saturday and I contemplated stopping at mile 23 (truth be told, my husband was insisting...and really I agreed...I didn't want to disturb my actually Boston Marathon training by running my legs to the ground), but I kept thinking of going those "extra miles." There were only 3! I mean, after running 23, why not just keep going?

Before reaching 23, I knew from experience what usually happened around mile 20...total breakdown of body and mind. I didn't want that to happen BEFORE my actual marathon.

I remember with clarity, some 8 years ago when I ran my second marathon and first attempt at a Boston qualifying time. I was all smiles and high fives until a light switch went off at mile 18. It was like I had been hit over the head with a brick. And then my legs felt like bricks. I recall the pain being similar to child birth (minus the epidural)...seriously! I just wanted the blasted thing to be over. I remember seeing scores of runners pass me...feeling defeated, I almost quit. But I didn't. I kept saying, "Just put one foot in front of the other Heather." And I did. I guess what, I finished...and qualified for Boston.

So while running I thought to myself it was pretty awesome to run 23 miles. It was a good thing...pretty awesome feat if I say so myself. I mean, who runs 23 miles on a Saturday morning...not many people. It would be totally fine to hop in the car and be done with it. I would have accomplished my goal by working my body and mind for a longer distance.

But I kept thinking about what I would get if I finished the race...if I just ran those extra miles. Not only would I have accomplished something "good," I would receive a final reward from my effort.

1. The opportunity to run through the finish, where crowds would be cheering!

2. A medal would be placed around my neck.

3. A warm blanket would be set on my shoulders (something I couldn't wait to get...it was COLD).

4. Fuel for my body (bagels, apples, bananas, chips, yogurt, juice)

5. A massage.

I thought about the rewards of going the extra mile...and the joy it brought to me that morning. I thought about you...and what more can be accomplish if we all would just go the extra mile. If we take the good that we do now and commit to be better what amazing things would happen. Whether we decide to show more patience in our homes, write that card of appreciation we have neglected to send, give of our time, or donate the extra we have...the rewards are great!
And the greatest reward is the joy we will feel in our hearts when we truly give of ourselves.
I see Sandy and Rich running that extra mile each day as they care for their precious Brittany. I want to be just like them when I grow up.

You do so much good...thank you. I am now only $100 from my goal! Please consider joining us as we help raise money to find a cure for NBIA as I run the Boston Marathon...to learn more click here

Massanutten 2011

2011-03-06T16:47:00.000-08:00

Another successful trip to Massanutten! We all agree...this was the best year of skiing. This assessment was given due to three lovely factors:

1. All Porters can now ski (Ashton voiced his disdain of skiing...or any outdoor activity... by telling his instructor he wanted to quit after 2 hours. Garth, Sommer, Calvin and I came and gave him a pep resulting in him sticking it out)! He was only willing to do 2 more runs after he completed his Slope Slider's course...but we will take that! It was awesome to have all 7 of us able to do something like this together.

2. The weather rocked! Friday brought us crystal clear sky and freshly made snow. Saturday threatened us with rain but blessed day...it kept away.

3. We loved skiing with the Uhler Family! They joined us on Friday night where each Porter kid matched perfectly with a Uhler kid. Sommer skied and then switched to snowboarding with Kayla. Calvin and Cole were MIA for two days somewhere on the slopes, tearing it up on their boards. Ethan and Jake not only sped down the hills, they took many an adventure in the woods and surrounding areas. Tate and Brett made plenty of noise and allowed Ashton to tag along.

And everyone seemed to be obsessed with "the arcade." Thanks Garth for taking them (if anyone wants a cheapo bear from the "claw" game...give us a call...)

The adults were pretty cool too. We especially enjoyed our "adult only" dinner and "adult only" outdoor hot tubbin'. But mixed with skiing with all the kids, the Porter vs. Uhler basketball tournament and diving show down, we loved every minute of it.

Sommer was the epitome of a ski bunny...man she looked cool!

The three boys went to ski school and had a blast (ok...two of them had a blast). I was amazed at how quickly Ethan and Tate learned the art of skiing.

Ashton was too cute handling his mini skiis.

Tate was a natural and was hitting the black diamond minutes after class ended.

Calvin didn't leave the slope until 10 pm each night. Stud.

Here is Ashton getting on the lift for the first time...we were all hiding, hoping he wouldn't see us and ask to leave class...success.

Garth and Sommer taking their first run.

Here is Ashton coming down after his first try on the mountain.

This is Calvin after two days of skiing.

Here is Sommer and Kayla getting ready to give boarding a try. They loved it...although they said it was painful.

Here is Ian and Rae...top notch snowboarders!

We love our trips to Massanutten indeed!

Hawaii Happenings

2011-03-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

I am sick at looking at myself running in that last post! So it is time to finally share some new happenings...and we have been happening indeed.

I mean...look at those toes (and old looking feet) just relaxing in Hawaii!

Garth and I were blessed to head over to Hawaii a few weeks ago to spend some time with my parents and Mike and Nikki (can you believe I haven't seen my bro and sis for at least 8 years...sad I know). But it was just like old times...laughing, laughing and more laughing...mixed with sunning, sunning and more sunning!

I can't express how wonderful it was to spend time with my mom and Nikki. And the hard work we all took part in getting the most amazing tans. We were exhausted every night...and then we would eat, feeling much better.

Garth preferred the more "active" Hawaii vacation and took up cliff diving with a bunch of locals. I don't think the locals busted up their shoulder though. I do have to give myself credit for snorkeling around that black rock corner far far from the beach (and safety). Have I told you I am afraid of open water (or closed for that matter). I was doing pretty good until someone said there was a huge turtle under me...I mean...right under me...creepy...I was too freaked out to actually see it...but who knows, I might have actually touched it! And then as we crept our way around the rocks, I started to notice dark murky waters that led to shark territory. After those thoughts entered my mind...I was "outta" there...and safely found myself on the sand where I went back to "working on my tan."

We also went to church while in Hawaii. I love going anywhere in the world and finding our church and feeling right at home...Aloha! And Garth enjoyed wearing plaid shorts and a Hawaiian shirt with sandals...Aloha!

Don't start thinking that all I did was lay in the sun all day...there was "one" time I rode 26 miles down from the Volcano...a whoppin' 10,000 feet. You might think that was easy (Garth says he never had to pedal) but gravity was on his side. For me to keep up, I had to pedal like a fool (my parents followed us from behind in their car and confirmed the "fool" and "pedaling").

You would have thought we were riding motorcross bikes with helmets like these. But no, simple mountain bikes.

I would have loved to see the crater of the "so called" Haleakala Volcano but no...too many clouds hanging out...lame (that was a waste of $15 bucks).

And man oh man...it was freezing up there. I was wondering where Hawaii went. But lucky for me, it wasn't long until mom and I were safely back to work at the beach.

Is this lady the cutest thang?! We had a blast relaxing by the water...talking and talking! Love you Mom!

We had a lovely picnic on the beachfront our last evening. After sharing a delicious pizza, it wasn't long until the ants took over and finished it. That all happened when we encouraged Garth to ride the waves one last time before we ended our vacation.

You would think Garth was showing off here for some ladies on his final wave...oh wait he was (or my funny brother cut and pasted him)...you decide

Our dear friends, Laura and Tung, met us in Waikiki and we had a lovely brunch on the beach. We were given these lovely leis too. Man, they are good to us! I think we might move in with them!

We think it was a little unfair when we woke up to this view the first morning. But we took full advantage of it...don't worry.

This was seriously one of the best vacations I have been on...ever!

Aloha and Mahalo (and Power to the Pope...or so the birds say).

Inspired by Brittany

2010-12-31T15:40:00.000-08:00

It's true...I have Brittany to thank. You see, I am running the Boston Marathon this year for Brittany. I am currently raising money that will go directly to NBIA's research lab in California.

I have been running a lot lately (okay, nothing new). But I have more importantly been running faster. When I start to tire, I think of Brittany, unable to walk, talk or even move (except for her arm a bit). I make myself go faster...because I am able.

Today I ran another 5k. I took 35 seconds off my fastest time, clocking a 20:24.

I am grateful for my ability to run...for Brittany.

Please make a donation (however small) for my neighbor (and friend).

Go here to get the details on all of the fun.

Tate is Baptized!

2010-12-27T13:15:00.000-08:00

Sunday, December 26, Tate was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With a winter storm trying to roll in (to Garth's disappointment it didn't give us more than a dusting), friends and family joined us in witnessing the baptism of our fourth little darling, Tate Matthew.

Our good friend, Jeremy (and bishopric member), conducted the meeting and Ethan opened with prayer. Big brother Calvin spoke on baptism followed by a sweet duet by Garth and Sommer. Tate then entered the waters (according to Tate, cold waters) of baptism and was washed cleaned. We then gathered together to hear Aunt Lisa give an amazing talk on the Holy Ghost, presenting Tate with a blanket to remind him of this precious gift. I was lucky to welcome him into the primary as the Pres and Mom and Pop-Pop Gair closed the meeting with prayer.

Filled to capacity with amazing long time friends and family our hearts were filled with their love and support.

Thank you everyone for making this day so special for Tate (and me).

Christmas Day

2010-12-27T05:51:00.000-08:00

It was indeed a Merry Christmas for the Porter Family!

Dressed in their PJ best, the day was filled with plenty of joy.

Ethan was overjoyed to add to his ventriloquist doll collection, receiving first the deluxe upgrade (hollow body and trigger moving mouth), Oliver Hardy.

He was even happier when Grandma and Grandpa surprised him with Mortimer Snerd Super Deluxe (with the additional moving eyes). He has been performing non-stop...be looking for Ethan's debut on a stage near you.

Garth's joy was met after finding this tent under the tree. The coolest part...it opens up within seconds. No more late night frustrating tent putting up episodes. A perfect gift for our Scout Master.

Sommer was thrilled to receive purple Uggs (Battlefield color)...Calvin was sad he didn't get a pair.

Tate loved his Razor 360...so did his siblings.

Ashton was found playing his DSi XL for an entire 12 hour period.

Tate seemed to just want to rip open gifts...so thanks to Pop-pop's tradition of wrapping everything single item in their stockings...Tate's wish was granted.

These four lucky people received bed buddies! Move over pillow pets...and make room for these guys!

Ashton and Tate loved their bears...

We love our Grandpa and Grandma...thanks for always making the Christmas magic continue at your home!

Christmas Eve

2010-12-25T12:45:00.000-08:00

We had our annual Christmas Eve Party and what a night! It all began with a Mexican Feast...And ended with a Sundae Bar.

That might just do for an evening of fun...but everything in between was rather fabulous too!

The 12 minute Family Gingerbread Decorating Contest was a hit as family fought against family to take home the big prize...the Gingerbread Plate. Honor went to the Jenkinson family! Honorable mention goes out to the Starks, Porters and Turners!

The gift exchange for the little ones (and big ones) was great fun too. We found that no child wanted to "steal" a gift from another...so everyone just opened a gift and seemed happy enough. But afterall, they were only $1 store toys.

The adult gift exchange was a complete opposite adventure tensions rising as gifts were taken time and time again. A twist was presented at the beginning...one gift was a complete "white elephant." If you ended up with this gift you had the option at the end of the game to chose between to giftcards...one with the value of $10, the other $25.

In the end, Pop-Pop, with the final choice in gifts, took the gamble and succeeded in choosing the $25 gift card (and was required to take home the white elephant gift...which he then proceeded to wrap and present to Garth at our family gift exchange Christmas morning).

The night is never complete without the impromptu reading (and acting out) of the Christmas Story. As Scott read from Luke, Garth (or the donkey) carried Mary (Madeline) on his back with Joseph (Coleman) following along (with small amounts of coaxing) to Bethlehem. The sheep (all small boys) and shepherds (all large boys) gathered 'round, the "bread of life (the only "baby" we had available)" and wisemen (the teens) presented gifts to the Saviour.

We enjoyed spending time with all of you on Christmas Eve!

Christmas Eve Eve Dinner

2010-12-24T12:18:00.000-08:00

Last night we headed over to the Reiley's for our Christmas Eve Eve Dinner. It was fun to have the kids get together with cousins...Sommer and Quinn have two classes together at school.

Lisa always provides the "poppers" keeping the confetti tradition (and crowns) alive and well.

The food was amazing and much fun was had.

Snow, Rudolph, Waterpark and Losing Suit

2010-12-19T13:26:00.001-08:00

Virginia had its first snow fall on Thursday. After one inch fell, they closed the schools early for the day. And lucky us, there was no school on Friday...perfect for our trip to Williamsburg.

Grandma and Grandpa Gair joined us on another one of our crazy adventures...this time to the Great Wolf Lodge. And as always, we had a blast!

We didn't get a chance to sit with Santa but we did get to see Rudolph in the lobby and even had real snow fall inside.

The real fun was had at the waterpark. We were thrilled to run into three families we knew and LOVED hanging out on Friday. The men went on the Tornado where they defied all odds (and the weight limit by 300 lbs) and almost didn't live to tell everyone how much fun it was...

The ladies then went together and laughed (and screamed) so hard they almost peed their pants (I am not telling if anyone actually did..ewww gross).

But the true laughing fest began when someone had the brilliant idea to try out the "Wave Rider." I don't know how I ended up being the first adult to go...

It was pretty fun for the first 5 seconds until I got caught up in a wave and was thrusted backwards up to the top of the ride. That "thrust" caused the top portion of my suit to come off, which I quickly grabbed and put back into the right place. While so doing (and quite stressed), I hear Brooke yell from the crowd of onlookers (and there were many), "your butt is hanging out too!" After trying to get re-dressed and the poor young boy that was running the ride awkwardly turned away, I see Sommer laughing hysterically (not to mentioned the other ladies).

If this story sounds familiar, it is. Garth lost his suit at the Massunutten waterpark a few years ago, scaring both Calvin and Sommer for years.

I was totally impressed, that after my striptease, both Brooke and Nonnie gave it a go. Brooke mastered the ride only losing her suit slightly, showing off her back and lower bummage. Nonnie, being a Californian, rode the wave like a pro and didn't show any inappropriate skin.

The good news:

See those waves at the top? Well they blocked me from showing my private life to the camera.

Here is Garth giving the ride a try...and looking good.

Ethan was awesome too!

We had a super time. Loved the Magi Quest game...Sommer and AShton played for hours (ok and me too).

And now we can't wait to go back!

Tate is Eight!

2010-12-13T12:07:00.000-08:00

Tate had his big 8 year old birthday yesterday! He had his first sleep over with his favorite buddies, donuts (his request instead of cake) and all the junk food he could get his hands on.

He will be baptized on December 26!

Love you Big Guy!

Thanksgiving at the Lake

2010-11-29T16:31:00.001-08:00

We had a fantastic time at the lake with the Gairs, Lisa, the Anderson Family and the Toma's!

The four oldest, Kylie, Sommer, Calvin and Braden spent most of the day wandering around the lake with camera in hand. They did a lovely job taking in their goings on...but out of the 100's of pictures they took, no young children, turkey, Ann, Garth, Bruce, Lisa were to be found.

But I think they had a lot of fun!

We had a blast playing our tennis tournament. And although the rules changed often, we had a "ball." Go Steve!

I hadn't played tennis in years. I think my running helped me chase after all of the balls.

Devin and Jen were pretty amazing.

And Donna and Bruce were top notch (the do play three or four times a week)...

The lake was absolutely beautiful!

Cal and Som love hanging out.

My thought exactly, Sommer...truly grateful for the beautiful lake.

...and even more thankful for the family and friends we were able to share it with...

Ashton Enjoys His Dental Visit

2010-11-29T12:00:00.000-08:00

Ashton's baby teeth are very close together...and no I don't dental floss them...call me a bad mom (or lazy), I don't mind. Anyway, he ended up getting 4 cavities (kissing they call them) between two tight teeth. So off to the dentist we went...wish we had cousin Wayne close by :)

We decided to go with laughing gas to keep things "happy." And sure enough, Ashton was happy the whole time.

Ahhh...Danmark!

2010-11-06T17:08:00.000-07:00

Our friends from Danmark, The Andersen family, came by for a few days as they traveled through the USA!

The first few days were pretty sad when I realized I couldn't speak a lick of Danish anymore or understand much they were saying either.

But tears came to my eyes, when after a few days, I could understand it again and could actually speak (and be understood, or at least I would like to think I could). Man I miss DANISH!

I was thrilled when Lise agreed to teach me how to make AEBLESKIVER. They are similar to donut holes and totally delish. Here are some pictures of our cooking class:

The oldest daughters, Julie and Catrina were a big help, teaching me the Danish "slang," since most of the language was "missionary" related. I was amazed at how well they all spoke English.

Here in this picture, I realize that my aebleskiver skills are lacking. Lise was the master!

We took everyone to the ward Halloween trunk-r-treat. We all had fun dressing up in costume. I think the Andersen kids were pretty amazed at the amount of candy they received that night. Here they are doing the Porter tradition of pouring out candy and doing some trading.

Little Pernilla (their youngest), was able to go to my neighbors (since our costume stash consists of pretty much skeletons and bloody masks) and try on every princess costume imaginable. She went with the snow princess. And man oh man did she look adorable.

We visited the Arlington Cemetery too. Here is Ashton and Pernilla posing. They couldn't really speak to one another but that didn't seem to bother them at all.

A friend of ours, set up a personal tour of the Capitol too. Senator Hatch's office were wonderful as they showed us every nook and cranny of our Nation's Capitol. I was pretty amazed.

Here I am posing with my gift from the Andersen's. I love this totally "Danish" vase.

I had a blast when Ashton, Tate and I took the two youngest, Pernilla and Karen to Chuck-E-Cheeses. It was so much fun watching everyone play. In the end, while chosing their prizes, both girls were CRAZY about the candy.

I think all children, 'round the world, love good old candy.

One evening we had taco night and all 14 of us enjoyed feasting on staples such as guacamole and chips!

We were sad to see them go (especially me)! We hope to visit them one day in Danmark!

Fabulous Football

2010-11-06T16:36:00.000-07:00

We had three football players this season.

Calvin played for Middle School (as a starter) and for the Gainesville Grizzlies. His Middle School team won the championship. He is number 22.

Ethan played for the Grizzlies too...it was his first year. He loved it. His team is going to the championships next week with a undefeated season!

Tate also played. His team is playing in the championship too!

(As much as we love football, we are kind of glad it's almost over!)

Beautiful Girl...

2010-11-05T13:45:00.001-07:00

Sommer is one beautiful girl...inside and out.

She has a bunch of great friends. They all decided to dress up as the "seasons" for Halloween.

Sommer was Summer of course.

This girl has taken High School by storm:

1. Ran for Freshman class Vice -President

2. Made Homecoming Court

3. Made all-county Treble Choir (ranked 3 in the whole county)

4. Made All-District Treble Choir (while coughing...she ranked 6th)

5. Made the Field Hockey team and LOVED it.

6. Wakes herself up each morning at 4:15 to get ready for seminary...then she wakes up Garth to drive her to the church (she hasn't missed once).

7. Helps with Brittany

8. Is the YW Chorister

Love ya Sommer!

Raising Money For Brittany

2010-11-01T16:41:00.000-07:00

This is my good friend Brittany. I have written about her before on earlier posts. I get to be with her every Tuesday...and I love it.

Brittany has a rare genetic disorder called NBIA or Neuro-degeneration with brain iron accumulation. Did you know that there are only about 200 people in the U.S. with this disease? Yikes! And there is only one small research center devoted to NBIA in California...but they require $250,000 each year to keep it running.

I want to help.

I decided to run the 2011 Boston Marathon in honor of Brittany this year. Not only that, I want to raise money for research.

Check out my Boston for Brittany Blog to see how you can help me raise money for Brittany!

www.bostonforbrittany.blogspot.com

Simply donate:

$2.62

$26.20

$262.20

and receive 1, 6 or 26 guesses for my Boston Finish Time. The person that predicts my finish time the closest, will receive 5% of the money raised!

I will listing the guesses as they come in!

I LOVE Shopping.

2010-09-24T17:53:00.000-07:00

I have always had a love for shopping. I am not picky. I will shop for pretty much anything. I started working at Nordstrom in college to pretty much have the option to shop at work. When Garth started his law practice and things were tight, I looked forward to my trip to Costco each week. And then when the law practice was no more and things even became more "tight" I looked forward to my garage sale addiction (I have had it for many years and it hasn't been until recently, my running addiction has replaced it), where I could pretty much buy anything without feeling guilty. Now you can find me at my favorite thrift store, searching for super deals on awesome brands!

Well the past few years, I have grown to love the grocery store. A place were my competitive juices start flowing as I search for anything and everything I can get for next to nothing.

Here are some recent shopping trips from last week's Harris Teeter madness. I added up all of my receipts and found the total before deals (and steals) was around $700. I spent approx. $32 out of my pocket. I got some great stuff!

I am pretty proud of my addictions. One keeps me in good shape and the other keeps our family eating on a dime (and feeds my other growing obsession...LUNCHING...we won't talk about that right now). If only Lindsey Lohan could come to one of our coupon classes!

I know you all want to see what the Porter Family eats, yeah right...the organic food and other extremely healthy items are hidden in the closet (I don't want you to feel bad about your own habits....)

But just for fun, take a look. I can't remember exactly what I paid for each shopping trip, but I can tell you the most was $15 and most of the others were under a dollar.

We want to share our secrets so check out our blog: www.hiptoclipcoupons.blogspot.com

Trail Running Hurts

2010-09-12T16:10:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I ran my second trail run. And it hurt. The first hurt because I started with these three ladies pictured below. I gathered from eavesdropping on their conversation, before heading into the other "hurt"(which will be discussed shortly), the 13 miles of hilly trails, that they were around my age, had multiple children and were ALL running in sports bras showing abs of steal! Now that hurts!
The second hurt came when they all wished each other fond farewells and one said to the other, "Heather! Go set another course record!" It didn't take but a second to realize the tiny girl, pictured on the left, was the "Heather" they were talking about. Hurt (and she did win).

The third hurt came when I realized I was all alone crossing this bridge...and why did that hurt you ask? Well, moments before this picture was taken, the photographer captured this lovely moment (pictured below):

Now, it didn't actually "hurt" physically (that came later). It was just embarrassing. Look at how silly I look! And Sommer agreed. This same "silly look" happened multiple times during my adventure. Stumbling was a common occurrence and focusing on the rocky, rooty trail was a must.

Around mile 7, I decided I needed a gu. After opening the package with my teeth and messing with my water bottle, my balance was interrupted by my left foot tripping on a rock. That created a series of events, falling, rolling, moaning and then getting up. I said to myself, "Off you go..." What choice did I have? And no one to see it...I bet one of the photographers would have loved the action shot. I could feel blood dripping down one knee, the other knee aching and back hurting...and 5 miles to go. It hurt.

The rest of the race was constant pain going up steep inclines, dropping quickly down, doing my best to manage the crazy terrain.

The best part came when I found out I was the 10th girl after mile 11. It was there we turned around and repeated the same trail we had just completed. It was so fun to see all of the ladies (did I mention this was a Women's only run)! Encouragement followed. I realized runner 11 was too far back to catch me. Runner 9 was about 20 seconds in front of me but I had no muscles left to try and catch her...hurt too bad.

Coming out of the trees and trail I see Garth...cheering. I finish strong. Beat my personal best on that race by 10 minutes...woo hoo! And got 10th runner overall and 2nd in my age group! And the prize was much better...a nice visor.

So although trail running hurts...it hurts good!

Grizzley Run

2010-09-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

(The awards ceremony...I beat that GIRL into the ground...all 60 lbs of her young self)

Nerdy adults getting ready to run the race of their lives...

I ran the Grizzly Football 5k not so much to help raise money for the new field. No, I did it to impress my family. I don't think it worked. I figured since I was competing against a bunch of young boys I had a good chance at taking the win for the ladies! After running along side 400 sprinting boys, the first half mile was sure fun. After 350 of those boys started losing their breath and cramping, I joyously strided on.

I immediately spotted my competition, a young gal (12) galloping along right in front of me. I thought to myself, I must win this, Garth and Ethan will be at the finish with their cameras (and the first race they will see me win)! I pushed onward and passed the young fawn at mile 1.5. After passing cheering crowds of football fans (I pictured them out there for me...yeah right), I knew I had this race in the bag. And then visions of large trophies or prizes filled my head (I have won a race or two and have been pleased with the swag)...I raced on. As I came to the final yards, the crowds filled the sides of the road. Cheers rang out. Spectators yelled out, "Here comes the first woman!" Others said, "Hey, her son is on our team!" I was so excited. I scanned the crowd for my children, Garth...hoping for a camera to capture my big moment.

But I didn't see them. Not for about 10 minutes after I finished. They had stopped over at Chick-Fil-A to grab a bite to eat. Missed the whole thing.

And the prize...a totally lame medal...made out of what might well as be aluminum foil and a thrilling $10 gift card to Model's (I probably have to spent $50 bucks to get the ten off)!

Deep down, I am a champion...even if it is a champion among stinky 10 year old football players!

Run on!

First Day of School

2010-09-09T16:06:00.000-07:00

The parents were pretty upset this Tuesday when all of a sudden all of the kids on the street loaded themselves up on this big yellow bus thing. It drove away with all of them so suddenly we didn't know how to react. Tears were shed, shrieking from some of the women were even heard. Where did they go?! How could they leave us to quiet and clean homes for a whole day. And how absurd that Garth and I could go have a lunch date with Jill and David (their kids were on that same bus)!

But here is what three of them looked like before they were taken...5th grader, 2nd grader and 1st grader.

Calvin left earlier that morning, quietly making his way to the gaggle of girls at the stop.

Sommer left even earlier for her first day of high school (where they have 3200 students)!

Happy Day...shhh....I mean totally sad day.

Ashton Turns SIX!

2010-09-08T12:14:00.000-07:00

Ashton had a another birthday...how dare he?! His choice of venue...Chuck-E-Cheese! He was so excited to have all of his friends join in the celebrating. He even invited all of his siblings.
Look how excited each one is:

Here is Ethan eating a large bite of pizza.

Here is Sommer reading AND listening to music (I think to drown out all of the little ones). She was a big help being the "token banker."

Calvin looks even more thrilled. Although he did head up the "let's get tickets for Ashton" fund. This helped entertain him. They ended up collecting 3000 and Ashton came home with a high quality stuffed Tootsie roll pillow...yeah right! But he LOVES it.

Tate always is looking to have a good time. He loved the party.

Here is Ashton getting ready to blow out his candles on his requested Skittle cake. Yummy?

We love you Ashton and Happy Birthday!

Alaska!

2010-09-01T12:47:00.000-07:00

I know, our trip to Alaska was over a month ago. Life is whirling and swirling by ever so quickly. Our trip was so much fun! Here are some pictures of our adventure.

We enjoyed the Blue Angels Air Show! It was a bit loud but luckily I had a pair of earplugs in my purse!

Here is Tali and Liz, the cutest sisters ever.

And here is Liz waiting her turn to "pilot" the jet.

Sis-n-law, Tiffanie.

Here is my brother Matt who looks quite "grizzly man-like" in the picture.

Here are my darling neices and nephew!

Our "bear."

No, I didn't buy it.

Ethan with his bear!

Here are the boys with Uncle Matt's cool car!

All buckled in and nowhere to go!

Novakovich multi-tasking!

Grandpa and Tate fishin'

Ethan's silver salmon.

Waiting by the river for Grandpa to get a big fish on...

The huge King Salmon Ethan caught.

The fight...

The struggle...

The fishermen...

A small hike...

My cute parents. Thanks for having us!

The Cure All

2010-07-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

When things start to heat up, the only cure is a trip to Alaska!

I love you cool Alaska. I love your clouds. I love your rain. I love your wind. I love your residents, Mike and Linda and Tiffanie and Matt. I love EVERYTHING about you right now.

And I love your restaurants, Lucky Wishbone and Simon & Seafords.

And I love your green. And your mountains. And your wildflowers.

And I love your fishing. Your moose.

And I love Dimond BLVD and Fred Meyer.

And I love Bayshore.

I just love ya Alaska.

Can't wait to see you on Tuesday!!!!!!!

Sorry Virginia. I don't love your heat and humidity right now (even though I love a lot about you too).

30 Staples

2010-07-17T18:37:00.000-07:00

Garth is tough. About two weeks ago he had surgery on his ankle. He hobbled around the house, working through the pain, going to girl's camp, and preparing everything for a week at scout camp.

And after one day, his intestines began to hurt again (over the past few years, he has been dealing with this problem). Our good friend Steve had gone to help with scout camp...but he too had been in pain...his tooth! So Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum headed for the hospital, leaving the boys at camp to fend for themselves (no, I kid, they joined another pack). Tweedle Dee was dropped off at a hospital near the camp (and far from us...3 hours away). Tweedle Dum went home to find out he needed a root canal...oh yeah...and as I write this, he is in Vermont, running a 100 miler (hence my decision to name him the "Dum" Tweedle)...Go Steve.

Tweedle Dee, whom we will call Garth, was admitted to the hospital. He was very disappointed to miss out on all of the scouting fun...,except for maybe the 100 plus temperatures combined with pure thick wet air...we east coasters like to call...a summer nightmare.

Blessed day. The small town doctor thought he might know why Garth had been suffering for so long. A past appendicitis, which healed, left scar tissue, might had been the culprit for causing blockage problems on his small intestines (or something like that).

He was scheduled for surgery the next day. Grandma Gair and Pops Gair immediately headed south to be with Garth. I remained home with a house full of kid's with many needs, appts, places to go, piano lessons to teach...blah blah busy life blah. Oh how we wanted to go and see our Tweedle...but so grateful Garth's parents came to the rescue.

The surgery went great and sure enough, the appendix had been as good as gone and had left plenty of scar tissue. Unfortunately, they had to slice his abdomen right down the middle...ewww and ouch.

Just as things were getting better, they took a turn for the worse. His incision site became infected (abscess anyone?!) and a systemic infection followed. This required heavy antibiotics and an extended hospital stay.

They finally allowed him to go home...yay! under the understanding he would clean his open wound and return two days later for a follow up appt (a 2 hour drive each way). He did that and they were able to remove the remaining staples and told him he didn't need to come back (unless he wanted to :)

He came home and has been continuing his healing process. He usually feels well in the morning and then by afternoon he is, "weak as a kitten."

Unfortunately his tribulation continued on Sunday when after a few days of itchy hives, he awoke to a totally swollen lip. That required a trip to the ER to find out he is now allergic not only to penicillin but the anti-biotic, Cipro as well. Poor boy...he can't wait until he is roaring like a Tiger and leaves the "kitten" as a distant memory.

We love you Garth..our little kitten.

Ethan Breaks the Record!

2010-07-10T12:36:00.001-07:00

Here is the number one 9-10 Boys Medley Relay Team in Prince William County!

The got a gold medal in the Firecracker Relay!

And here are the second place, silver medalists for Freestyle!

But what thrilled us all today was Ethan getting a record in the Breast stroke and coming in first place on his favorite stroke!

This week he is ranked number 2 in the whole county!

That boy is fast!

Hip to Clip Coupons

2010-07-06T07:40:00.001-07:00

I have been feeling very hip about my coupon clipping for years now. My good friend, Brooke is also pretty hip too! We not only love saving money on our food, cleaning supplies and beauty selections...we love everything CHEAPER!

So with our passion for saving, we have started teaching a coupon clipping class a few times a month. We often get asked, "How do you save so much on your grocery bill?" It is time to share our secrets.

Our first class sold out. We hope to have many more to come!

We have a new blog set up: hiptoclipcoupons.blogspot.com. If you want to join us for a class, or have us host a private coupon party...let us know.

Let's get clipping!

Swim, Swam, Swum

2010-07-04T09:57:00.001-07:00

Ethan went away on his first overnight camp at UVA!

It was swim, swim and swim all week long.
He met a great group of friends right off the bat!

Here he is giving us a farewell as he begins his week.

But first the whole family drove to the UVA campus to get him settled in. Our first stop was lunch and a few wishes at the wishing well. Ashton "wished" he would find a quarter. His wish was immediately granted when he looked down and found one on the ground.

Here we all are glad to have just gotten Calvin back from BYU golf camp and sad to be sending off Ethan to his camp!

Here is the door to Ethan's dorm room for the week. Notice, Porter Garth. Garth accidentally signed himself up for the camp. We had to change a few things to get Ethan's name changed but his friends still liked to call him "Porter."

Here he is with a big excited smile ready to go!

But is seemed a bit scarier when we actually were there saying good-bye! Look at the fear in those eyes...or maybe he just thinks I am weird.

The camp was a success and he had a blast. Do you know that this boy is ranked in the top 25 for all 9-10 boys for Breaststroke in the whole county (I think he is #5)?! And he is on two relays that are ranked #1.

Lake Loving

2010-06-29T16:20:00.000-07:00

We love Grandma and Grandpa's lake house. For years, jumping off the docks have been one of the highlights. I would be the only exception to that rule due to my fear of open water. I WILL NOT be eaten by the creature(s) lurking in the deep murky waters of this or any other lake/ocean/river.

I do like watching the kids and Garth jump in to their heart's content. This video cracks me up at the end. I ask Garth "how is it?" He actually thinks I am going to jump in...like no way.

I do get in every once in awhile (when the kids beg) which then leads to heart palpitations waiting for "the creature" to grab me by the leg and pull me under into the abyss.

If you think I am kidding about this phobia, I am not. Last year I was saved by my friend's purple swim cap as everyone laughed at me trying to swim a few yards in hope's to doing a triathalon in open water.

Highlights of Calvin's Trip

2010-06-27T15:56:00.000-07:00

Calvin was thrilled to miss the last 3 days of school in order to take off on his vacation. In Calvin style, he began organizing everything weeks in advanced, printing off his BYU golf camp internary, making a list of things he needed, calling Grandma to earn some money, that boy was ready to roll!

Aunt Lisa arrived the day before, driving down from New York to whisk him away early on Wednesday morning.

Their first stop was Park City!

The list of activities those two did were absolutely amazing! Here Calvin is doing the bungee jump. I even heard Lisa did a double back flip...that takes talent indeed!

This is Calvin (totally out of order), leaving for BYU Golf Camp. He attended this week long camp, where he improved his golf game, made plenty of friends, ate ice-cream at the Creamery each night, decided hand's down that BYU-Provo was his dream college (he had better get those grades up), and LOVED his golf coach (a lovely young lady on the BYU team). He finished 12 or so in the tournament with around 50 kids from ages 12-17.

Back to Park City. Here Calvin feels like the third wheel as Lisa snuggles up to this "beary" cute date. I think I have a picture with this very same bear while I was at BYU.

This is Calvin in front of the Salt Lake Temple. Temple square is a must see for anyone visiting Utah.

Another adventure Lisa and Calvin went on was river rafting. I hear the water was freezing. But luckily, there were not any major rapids so no one was thrown overboard. I think Calvin threw himself over at some point.

Taking the chair lift up the mountain and biking down was a highlight for sure. Calvin even sustained a nasty injury when he flew over his handle bars.

If you think that was enough fun, you mistaken. The two ventured up in a hot air balloon too!

How cool is that?!

Calvin said his favorite activity was ATVing.

The ride was dusty, so they decided to go as bandits...

Rock climbing was also one of the activities. Calvin was quite the climber according to Lisa.

The also visited Olympic Village. They were able to see all the cool venues from the Winter Olympics from a few years back.

I am missing pictures from the zipline, the alpine coaster and alpine slide...fun for all I am sure!

Thank you Aunt Lisa for making some amazing memories for our Calvin. We LOVE you!!!

Calvin's Dream Trip

2010-06-27T15:37:00.000-07:00

Aunt Lisa rocks!

It was Calvin's turn to turn 12 and go anywhere he wanted in the US with his Aunt Lisa. I know everyone wishes they had an Aunt Lisa (I do...come Lisa I turn 40 next year...and won't you be 30?)! Well, this amazing Aunt takes each of our children on a dream vacation when they hit 12. Sommer you remember went to Florida, swimming with dolphins, going to Disney, etc.

Calvin chose a trip to Utah...and she doesn't disappoint.

Beachy Keen

2010-06-08T05:57:00.000-07:00

Here is what the various members of the Porter Family like to do while at the Beach:

Garth likes to rest. He especially likes to rest after spending most of the day boogie boarding. I think here he is resting his ankle after a failed attempt at skim boarding...ER anyone?
Calvin loves the water...me...not so much.

Sommer was found either in the waves or in a book.

Tate could be found in the water or eating fruit... the orange slice variety

Ashton surprised us all and loved the water this year. Even after getting attacked by a few waves, he was up an at it again.

We love Virginia Beach!

The Parable of the Chocolate Covered Almonds

2010-06-06T10:24:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went camping at the beach with a group of friends. We are not seasoned campers quite yet as we learned the morning after our first night of camping.

Our camping neighbors in the tent next to ours heard wrappers shuffling all night. They wondered what we had been up to. After seeing my beautiful muffins gone, a bag of rolls torn into and a box of graham crackers taken we realized raccoons had been visiting our site.

Our friends laughed and said, "Don't you know you need to always put your food away, sealed tight, garbage put away from your tents?" Well, growing up in Alaska with bears and other harmful animals, yes, I did know that...but this is Virginia...so I figured the only thing we would have to worry about was a squirrel or two and some ticks.

But what we didn't realize was raccoons liked our site. And they loved our food! They had a special love for our chocolate covered almonds.

I had purchased a brand new jar of almonds from Costco the day before. We all love these delicious pop in your mouth (way to often) treat. They come in a plastic jar with a lid that screws on tight.

After the coons had made their presence known on the first night, we took all of our food and put it safely away. The almonds, we forgot. But had figured they would be safe from harms way due to their tough protective exterior...that the smell wouldn't be detected from inside the sealed, tight lid.

But late into the night, we were all awakened by a most interested sound. A sound that resembled a jar of almonds rolling across the campground site. Rolling over and over again, almonds rolling and rolling. It was quite loud, rather irritating while we were trying to sleep. Eventually the men got out of their tents with flashlights. But it was too late. The jar of treasured almonds were gone. No sign of the sneaky coon. Silence.

When morning broke, we saw the damage in other sites near ours, bananas eaten, trash bags destroyed. But the almonds, my dear almonds, were gone. How could they be taken when they were sealed so tight?

I thought all was lost...you see, I was craving those almonds. I loved them. All was lost until Calvin went running into the woods to see if he could see any sign of those blasted coons. Moments later, he came busting through the thicket with the jar...the jar of almonds. High above his head he carried the almonds...sealed tight. Although the plastic exterior had been scratched and was as dirty as one could imagine, the almonds inside were totally fine. Calvin didn't let those almonds go...he went in searching for them...for he too loves almonds.

Like Chocolate Covered Almonds in a safe plastic jar, we too need to protect ourselves. By building a sure foundation, by living the Gospel, doing those things that will protect our fragile spirits, we too will be protected. And although the adversary will do all in his power to roll us to an fro into his wilderness of despair, the minor scraps (mistakes we make), will not destroy us. And even if we are taken for a moment and make decisions that draw us away from our loving Savior, He will be there. He will come looking for us. He will make us whole. For He loves us.

Dancer

2010-05-16T14:48:00.000-07:00

Sommer is a dancer. She attended her first Stake Dance last night. We had so much fun shopping earlier in the day for a new outfit, shoes and of course nails getting painted. So much fun having a daughter.

She said she danced the night away. She was even asked by a strapping fellow who asked her where she went to school. This was after he just told her he was a senior in High School. She was like, "Um...I am in 8th grade."

Family Fun

2010-03-01T11:04:00.001-08:00

It was that time of year again when the whole family packs up the car and heads to the mountains of Massunutten.

This year brought something totally out of the norm...real snow....the kind that falls from the clouds created by cold temperatures. In past years, the snow was made each night by large machines blowing icy stuff on the various runs, while dirt and rocks lined the path of the nightly slick and daily slushy snow.

But after the snowy year Virginia received, the slopes were covered with a lovely blanket of something special.

Sommer took to the slopes ready for her second year of skiing. She was a real trooper, even after I made her crash last year.
I think we could call her our official "ski bunny."

This "bunny" had a nasty face plant in the snow while working on his snowboarding techniques. We were so proud of his war wounds.

Calvin loves to snowboard. This year, Kenny came up and gave some lessons to tweak Calvin's abilities just a bit. By days end, Calvin was whipping down the "black diamonds." He loved it so much, he stayed until the blasted slope closed at 10 pm.

Here at the top of the mountain, two goats hung out with the skiers.

This is our newest skier, Ethan. He had two one hour lessons and came out of the gates with gusto. He mastered the chairlift and dreams of conquering the black diamond trails next year.

It is so much fun doing things like this with your kids! I love that they are getting older and want to get outdoors and do adventurous stuff! I only wish Garth could have joined us but his newly formed bunion number two has been giving him problems. He was a champ and hung out with Ashton and Tate all day.

But don't despair, Garth (and the rest of the family) spent the previous day, at the water park. Garth loved the lazy river, floating in an ever so relaxed state for most of the day. Just kidding. He was actually found triple tubing it down the water slides making innocent mothers scream for their lives as tube and man teetered on disaster.

We love taking our annual trip to Massunutten.

I thought a lot about my dad on this trip. I am so grateful he took the time to teach me so many fun skills. I always revel in the fact I am pretty good at a lot of things! I owe my bowling, hunting, fishing, hiking, downhill skiing, cross country skiing and golfing talents to you dad! Thanks POPS!

The TRIP!

2010-02-17T16:08:00.000-08:00

Sommer dancing with Pluto...and loving every minute of it!

Ethan taking Tate for a little drive. We loved that the older kids could go off by themselves and help out the little ones too!

Garth couldn't wait to see the "stunt" show! Here is the final explosion...so cool.

Riding with Grandpa.

Garth collects these creatures...not talking about our children.

Donald, Mexican style! Ole'!

It cracked me up that the Disney characters have to stay in "character." To Belle I said, "You look pretty, love the hair." She replies in her sing song voice, "Well thank you dear. The Beast will be glad to hear it looks so lovely today."

More fun with Pop-pop.

Kids in order of goofiness!

Our trip to Disney was quite a "trip."

I wouldn't call our vacation experience one filled with warmth and sunshine, health and vigor, or free of flight delays. It was filled ironically enough with some rather "goofy" mishaps, things out of our control of course, that created a trip we will never forget.

Where oh where do I begin:

How about we start with our big snowstorm that came the day before our departure. After dumping a record 27 inches, Northern Virginia pretty much closed down. This of course meant our flight was cancelled. We didn't despair for two reasons, we had purchased travel insurance (who buys that anyway...we just happened to!) and our travel agent was already rescheduling our flight and stay for Monday. Sunday morning brought the dreaded news that the airports would be closed for yet another few days cancelling our rescheduled Monday departure. Travel agent Lynn came to the rescue once again, changing everything for Tuesday.

With fingers crossed, we woke up at 3:30 am to make our 6:30 flight to Orlando...for our magical?...and warm?...vacation!

And amazingly, we flew out of Virginia on our way to Disney world...barely. The following day, another blizzard arrived and dumped another 10 inches on our already snowed in state, closing the airports once again. But we had made it out and were ready to have some FUN!

We had been hoping our Florida weather would be clear and WARM! But we were not so lucky. Day one brought a lovely rain. While warm, it was wet!

Day two, three and four were COLD. Highs barely reaching the mid 50's with that blasted arctic air streaming down from the north...thanks a lot wind chill. If only I had thought about taking along my UGGs and parka!

Day five brought a nice combo of both RAIN and COLD.

Day six was heavenly. The skies cleared and the sun brought forth warmth. But this day also brought a trip to the ER for Grandma Donna. After a trip to Celebration (nice name for a hospital...what would one be celebrating?), the local hospital, Donna found out she had a 8 mm kidney stone. So big, it required surgery. After spending two days "celebrating...not," she was scheduled for her ultrasound surgery to bombard the stone...THE MORNING OF OUR DEPARTURE for later that evening. Donna was a super trooper and came out of her surgery feeling spry and ready to board our plane.

But ,no, no, the flight ended up being delayed for 2 and a half hours, not leaving until 10:30 pm. Our children were amazing hanging out in the airport, totally exhausted, waiting for our departure. And Donna, just having surgery hours before, also amazed. We finally arrived home at 2 am in the morning.

One would think that rain and cold would detract people from coming to Disney. No. The park was so incredibly crowded from Sat through Tues with mobs of Mickey Lovers celebrating Valentine's Day and President's Day.

But that was just the unlucky stuff that happened...we had tons of WONDERFUL experiences too!

How about this for starters...our kids didn't miss ONE day of school. School was cancelled for 9 days! And after getting home so late (or early), they even had a two hour delay that morning followed by a delay the rest of the week. This totally benefited me and my late nights watching the Olympics.

The pool was so warm, we swam every day. Calvin, Ethan and Sommer had a blast each night hanging out at the pool with a bunch of friends they had met. Garth, Tate, Ashton, Bruce and I loved the hot tub even more. Our sore muscles loved soaking each night!

We didn't have to wait for any buses! Bus luck was on our side the entire trip. It seemed that every time we came out to catch a bus to a park, the bus would magically appear. And after long days of walking around the parks, our resort bus would be there, ready to give us a quick ride back to our hotel.

We avoided waiting in many a line thanks to Calvin's quick moves for the fast passes each morning. And then when those were out, we had Ashton to use for the extra parent waiting ticket. We rarely had to wait in any lines.

We never felt a hunger pain due to Disney's dining meal plan. I felt like it was a week of non-stop eating. My favorite indulgence was a chocolate chip mint shake every night. The warm cherry cobbler with huge scoop of vanilla ice-cream was a close second. We tried so hard to eat everything before we left...but we failed. We ended up giving 6 meals to a nice couple I met in line...while getting my daily shake of course!

It was too fabulous having Grandma and Grandpa Gair with us to help spoil the children. Thank you both for coming along with us on our Magical Vacation!

I taught the kids to always look down while walking around the park. I told them there would be a good chance they would find some money. Sure enough, our skills brought in 12 dollars. And don't worry, there was no pocket picking...at least not this trip.

More pictures to come...if I can get my act together!

Theres Snow Place Like Home

2010-02-07T12:58:00.000-08:00

When the Blizzard of 2010 comes to our town, Ashton knows what to do...

just remain in your undies all day.

The rest of us, shoveled and shoveled and shoveled...

or at least Garth did.
I shoveled for an hour early on Saturday morning and was just plain wiped out.

There was so much snow (27 inches) that even the kids were too tired to play in it. Even the dog, Joey couldn't take it.

We have loved it!

I actually had time to read a book. It kept me up until 1:30 am last night! By the way, you need to read, "The Hunger Games."

It did cancel our trip for Saturday. And then cancelled it again on Monday.

Tuesday is our last try and then Disney will have to wait until winter is over.

It's supposed to snow again on Tuesday night. My bets are there will be no school all week long.

I was able to run in it today.

Nothing will stop that.

Nervous

2010-02-01T11:34:00.000-08:00

I am nervous about this weekend. I mean, it has been five years since our last big family vacation. A vacation where we actually were gone longer than 3 days, we fly, we leave all of our cares at home. A vacation where the kids have been saving their coins (in a big jar...I will be cashing that in this week), working on earning "Disney dollars" by behaving and helping. A vacation we have been anticipating for years.

It will be here on Saturday.

But here is why I am nervous:

1. We are supposed to have a major snowstorm on Friday night (we leave early on Saturday morning)
2. We have had 2 sick kids and one sick dad the past few days and now I feel a bit achy and have started coughing. What about the other 3 kids?

Here is why I am okay with my nervousness:

Our travel agent encouraged us to get travel insurance.

And many of you might think that was a waste of money...but the last time we went to Disney we had three kids with fevers hitting 104 and coughing every night. Needless to say, it wasn't the best vacation.

I hope we will be leaving on that jet plane on Saturday...healthy and happy AND WARM!

Catch up.

2010-01-16T15:35:00.000-08:00

Let's take a moment to catch up with the Porters:

1. Too much laundry. Too many dishes. Constant piles of paper stacked waiting to be sorted. Bikes and scooters are tripped on everytime I walk through the garage. Toothpaste remnants on sink. Toilets never flushed. Toilet aim is always off. Shoes are tripped on. Coats are dumped. Trash is always over flowing. Things are always missing. Mom is always to blame. Lights left on. And so forth.
2. Laughter abounds. Calvin, Dad and Mom Gin Rummy tournmants. Sunday cookie making. Mario Bros playing. Story reading. Back scratching. Story telling. Lullaby singing. Super tight hug giving. Testimony bearing. Friend making. Sibling kindness. Basketball playing. Piano practicing. And so forth
3. We have a 10 year old in the house. Ethan hit the double digits today. This is our year for friend birthday parties. But I do attempt to persuade them to NOT have a big crazy party. I do this by offering them $100 in cold hard cash. They can either take the wad, have a $100 party or split it up. Good news...Ethan took the money.
4. Calvin turns 12 in five days. He went from wanting the $100 cash to a birthday party back to taking the cash. I think after he saw Ethan's huge stack of brand new 100 $1 bills he was sold.
5. Ethan and I had a blast shopping with his $100. We went to Tyson's Corner mall. I think my kids have been to a mall only a few times in their life. He was in awe. And even after having a wad money burning a hole in his pocket, he didn't spend a penny. After a trip to Toys R Us and Costco, he finally decided on an ipod. And even though the ipod was $130, I just had to throw in the extra few dollars after his donation of $29 of his other birthday money to the people of Haiti.
6. Ashton still will not put his head in the water. Not only are we talking about a pool, but the bath as well. Is it time to just dunk the kid?! Anyone out there willing to try to teach him to swim? He usually has a big tantrum on the pool deck when the instructor has attempted to get his ears wet. I am at the age where all I want to do at the pool in the summer is to read a novel. But curse that blasted swim vest. It is a total give-away that my son can't swim.
7. Tate sleeps with fifty pillows and four hundred blankets each night. I can't even tell where he is most of the time.
8. After spending 5 days in the hospital for a blocked small intestine, Garth won't admit it was a lovely get-away and counts as such.
9. Sommer is learning French. This pleases her father who has been a delighted tutor (Garth LOVES the kid's homework...and seems very upset when he doesn't get an A on a project...I mean, when his child doesn't).
10. The Porter's are taking their first family vacation in five years! WE ARE SO EXCITED! Mickey...we're coming!

It's Sad

2010-01-16T15:31:00.000-08:00

It's sad that I can't find time for this blog thing anymore. I used to have time to read all of your blogs too. I loved that.

But I am not going to give up though. Now that would be sad.

TTTTTT is TT

2009-11-26T18:25:00.000-08:00

First, I must preface this race account with Calvin's awesome FIRST ever 5k race! The boy ran a rockin' race, coming in at 24:30 without even training one day. Man that boy has talent. I love it. And now I have us signed up (including the rest of the family), for another 5k in a few weeks.

TTTTTT is TT stands for: Thankful That The Thanksgiving TURKEY TROT is Totally Trotted!

I get myself so worked up about races. Why don't I just go out and enjoy the sights and sounds, people and pets, experience and excitement of racing?

Because...I like a CHALLENGE with plenty of pain (epidurals not included)...AND that is what all the other runs during the week are for!

So the latest and greatest idea of mine was to take a few months off from marathon training and dive right into 5k record breaking. That meant no more long 20 mile runs. What it did mean though was running my guts out on the track.

I have plenty of zippity do-DA mentors out there! I have brother Matt who is wicked fast indeed. I have friends here in Virginia who not only run super speedy marathons but blast it in a 5k. This time my friend Jen got on board and decided to be my personal "pacer" today.

My goal: Beat my fastest 5k time to date which was set exactly two years ago: 21:26. And while at it, go ahead and break the 21 minute barrier. That means I had to run a 6:45 minute mile. Ouch for me.

So at 8 am this morning, I attempted to break my personal record....

There are over 3,000 trotters lined up. Many friends have gathered together at the starting line ready to get hearts a racing.

The gun goes off. The first mile is downhill, so the plan was to hit it hard. Within 50 steps, my heart was a pumpin' overtime and my legs a screamin.' Jen places herself a few steps ahead of me and begins giving me a play by play attack plan. This girl isn't even huffing or puffing due to her amazing running skills (her PR is in the low 19 minute range)...and I try to not hold that against her.

You would think a measly 3.1 miles would be a walk in the park...especially compared to 3 and a half hours of running a marathon! But there is nothing like a full out sprint for 20 odd minutes...don't like it one bit. I definitely prefer a longer slower run...

So mile one passes. We hit a 6:35 pace. Perfect time, but I know it is way too fast for my skill level. The only good thing, is all of the children that weave all over the place have been left in our dust.

Mile two begins with a lovely uphill. Then another hill and maybe even another. Jen keeps telling me to pick it up a bit...what?! I think is she crazy! But after seeing our 2 mile split come in at 7:15, I start to worry. I am not going to be able to do this unless I can pick it up!

But then I think, one more lousy mile...7 more minutes...maybe less if I dig deep.

We turn the corner for the final .75 mile (uphill). Jen pulls the pace up and tells me to keep with her. I do! And then she says, "Heather, you will now pass me and start picking people off." I look at my watch, it says I am running 6:15's. I am dying. I can hear the announcer. I am getting closer. My legs are burning. My heart is about to explode. I pass a few boys. I see two speedy girls (go girls) that I just can't catch. I see the timer, it reads 20:50. Click, click...I give it a good push....I give it everything I have...

21:01.

2 seconds off my goal time.

I think, "Seriously? I couldn't run just 2 seconds faster?!" Nope. I couldn't have. Not this time.

What a great day of pain.

I wonder if I burned enough calories in 21:02 minutes to cover my Thanksgiving dinner? I doubt it.

I am Not Sick

2009-11-21T17:46:00.000-08:00

I am totally not sick. Even though I have somewhat of a cough, I am not sick. I ache a bit, but no way am I sick. My eyes are sore, but nothing a little sleep can't cure. Calvin was home with a 102 fever a few days this week. Nope, I don't have a fever (I have checked a few times though), therefore not sick.

Tonight I feel sick though. A little cough, a little ache, my eyes hurt...no fever. I guess I should go to bed and give another day of "not being sick" a try.

There is absolutely no time to be sick anyway!

This week:

1. Spent all day Saturday with the General Primary President training all primary presidents in our region (awesome indeed).
2. Sunday drove Sommer to the Washington DC temple to hear/see Sister Dalton, the Young Women's President speak to all of the Young Women in the region (awesome indeed).
3. Two kids to dentist, haircut, Visiting Teaching, was visit taught...
4. Watched Brittany solo for the first time. Her feeding tube was only knocked out three times thus spraying the both of us with her formula. When her mom came home, she assured me this happened often and while I cleaned up the mess in the kitchen, she went to hose down Brittany.
5. Planned a bridal shower for a friend with one week notice...a super success...whew!
6. Let Sommer stay home from school and took her on a New Moon and lunch date.
7. Ran way too much (training for a 5k race next week where I hope to get a personal best)
8. Had our Christmas photos taken (love them) and then had cards made...no I haven't even thought about sending them yet).
9. Stained our decrepit swing set (nightmare)...thanks Calvin for all of the help...other 3 boys, not so much.
10. Took two older boys on date with Garth and I. A little bit of a bust when movie was sold out.

See...no time to be sick!

What to Blog About...

2009-11-11T16:02:00.000-08:00

I could blog about all of the Halloween candy I have been eating (just found an entire bag of Reese's...I ate 3 so far today...oops just ate another). Should I mention the amount my kids have been eating?! With five kids, three of which stayed out for hours, only can bring about mounds of the stuff. I keep telling myself I am going to throw it all away, or donate or freeze it...but I can't.

I could blog about the crazy afternoons I have created for myself. I now have 26 piano students and it might be killing me...slowly. I really love it, I do. It just is a lot when five darling kids come home from school, homework needs to be done, dinner prepared, etc. I get calls or emails every other day with moms wanting their kids to take from me (love the compliment), I can't seem to say no. Even when Garth peers into my office as I am talking with them, shaking his head and mouthing...no more. But how grateful I am for the extra income it has provided us during hard times. It's just a lot.

I could blog about the hours of TV I watch each night, many of which are a total waste of my time. I try not to tune in but it calls me...every evening at 8. It's kind of like a time card. I literally "clock out" and begin my zombie-like ritual over and over and over again. I need to stop. But if I did, I would just turn to reading and that usually isn't the scriptures at that hour.

I could blog about Sommer's 8th grade math that I can't do. Or Calvin's 6th grade math. Or dare I admit, Ethan's 4th grade math failures on my part. Thank goodness for a brilliant husband. I think we will be okay with his tutoring skills even through High School. What in the heck are math investigations? That don't even add and subtract like I did growing up!

I could blog about my dirty carpet and my longing for it to be burned. Not going there.

I could blog about my car. About 6 months ago I left the sun roof open (I never use the dang thing and the one time...) on a totally clear night. It poured rain and left 3 inches of water in my middle console. Needless to say, my radio didn't work for weeks. When it finally started working again, there was a constant buzzing from one of the speakers...even when the car was off. This of course ran down the battery. After taking the car in, we were informed it would need to go to the dealer and some small expensive part (which can only be found by ripping off the entire front portion of our car) needed to be purchased. Like we have money for that. At least I have jumper cables in my car and I am pretty.

I could blog about the HUGE amount of food I have in my pantry thanks to Harris Teeter's incredible sales and cutting coupons. It is the greatest thing ever. I know it gives people the creeps when "couponers" start talking about "couponing" and all of the money they save. But in reality, we just want to share the joy of such a simple thing that can save you literally HUNDREDS of dollars a week. It is so dang simple.

I could blog about Brittany. I get to watch her every Tuesday. She has NBIA, a rare genetic disorder. In only a few short years, she went from a normal child to one that is fed through a feeding tube, can't walk or talk. I have learned how to feed her, drive her wheelchair (haven't crashed yet), give her breathing treatments and in an emergency, give her oxygen. She even has her own elevator. She is a beautiful 14 year old girl who loves the Jonas Brothers (this week I found all of their music videos on YouTube, and we watched each one while I feed her. She thought it was really funny when she accidentaly knocked off her feeding tube and it went zipping around spraying us with her formula. And she laughed even louder when I didn't mix up her pills enough in her tube and it clogged the whole thing. I was there holding her syringe full of formula calling out to one of her parents (who had just got home from a walk and were upstairs getting dressed). I said loudly, "Sandy?" "Rich?" "Anyone hear me?" Help?! Brittany started giggling. I then shushed her and said I was going to get in trouble. She laughed more. After no answer, I ended up having to hold the full syringe while maneuvering her electric wheelchair to the base of the stairs in hopes of getting her parents attention. She laughed the whole time...even while I bumped her a few times in the process.
It has given me pause seeing this little girl with so much joy! She can't speak but yet she communicates. She can't walk, but through her loving parents, is able to see the world. She depends on help 24-7 and she gives those that serve her, so much.
I have a tendency to rush through life. When I am with Brittany, my life slows for a moment and I am reminded to hush the rush. I look forward to my time with Brittany.

So I guess that is what I am blogging about today....

Hilary's NEW CD!

2009-11-06T15:13:00.000-08:00

I can't wait to hear my sister's new Christmas CD!

Can you?!

If I had a picture like this of myself, I would blow it up lifesize and put it on my front door...I'm just saying.

Halloween

2009-11-01T07:03:00.000-08:00

It was another successful Halloween!

1. We had two skeletons (Ash not pictured). This is the 8 consecutive year we have had a skeleton child

2. Grandma Gair another Boo-tiful costume for Sommer

3. After a 4 year hiatus, we finally had another "army guy."

4. We almost had a Heather Clone when Ethan decided to dress up like a runner. He changed his mind moments before the night began since his wig itched him like crazy. Darn wig.

5. Our street put on their annual Halloween Block Party.

6. Garth and I made a very cute Osborne couple: Ozzy and Sharon!

7. Calvin went as a simple "ghost."

8. We filled out bags with candy galore! And I love candy.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

How Much Do You Really Want To Know!?

2009-10-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

I am busier than I ever thought possible! I thought when the kid's went to school, I would be on the sofa in my pj's eating Ben and Jerry's out of tub and watching Reg.

No. On the contrary! I will preface this by saying all of the business is totally my fault.

It all started on the first day of school when I started gutting out the boys room. It didn't end there. I then switched Cal and Ethan into Ashton and Tate's room. They look great and due to my evil Mother ways, they are remaining clean.

I then proceeded to start my room renovations. This took major muscle, garbage bags full of garbage, clothes to give away, craigslist items up for grabs and undertaking painting my bathroom. After "the couch" was moved to the garage (it was so disgusting no one on craigslist wanted it but a dear garage saler did!...old friends remember...it was our eddie bauer denim beauty I slaved a week at the Nordstroms sale to purchase 14 years ago) and other chairs moved in its space the four day project was done. Besides totally stained carpet (which at this point will remain until the day I probably die), my room looks so good! No kids allowed to set foot (or clothing item, toy, etc) in there without a raising their hand and swearing they won't touch, leave, remove or stain anything in there! So far so good.

Then it was time to fix the huge holes and scratches that were given to my walls as Garth moved the above mentioned denim couch to the garage. Bless his heart, he thought Calvin and Sommer were professional movers and asked them to help as I taught piano lessons. I watched in horror as he pinned the couch against the wall with his arms in a high outstretched formation. At the same time he was yelling at the "two movers" to lift! After my little piano student shrunk down onto the piano bench wondering what was going on, I ran to his aide and we finally got the blasted thing into the garage. What was left were three lovely holes and quite a few ornate scratches streaming down the staircase wall. Upon seeing this (and having such a lovely clean and organized upstairs), I decided the OTHER HUGE hole in our wall made a few years ago in the hall by a child slamming the doorknob into the wall (and the next two years, children making that whole bigger and bigger) needed to be dealt with.

After calling my super duper fixer dad, I headed to LOWE's telling myself over and over again..."I can do this!" I bought the necessary items and began patching away. After a nice sanding and what seemed like constant dusty remnants being vacuumed over and over again, it was paint ready!

This is when things got a big hairy. You would think matching paint would be a breeze, right?! WRONG! We had this area of our home painted about 4 years ago. I had lost the swatch but figured I would recognize the name of the paint right away at Shermin Williams. I get there ready to work my memory magic to find out they didn't make that paint anymore! What?! The painting associate told me to simply give them a quarter size sample and they could match it. That would have been nice to know the day before, I PATCHED THE WALL where I could have easily torn a little sample off.

Well I calmly returned home to and actually found the swatch card! I felt so empowered. I marched back the next day to get my paint to find out they didn't know what kind of paint was on my walls!

Well I uncalmly returned home to get a bucket of old paint we had used at the same time but was of course a different color. The next day (mind you...this store is 15 miles away), I march in with sample card and paint can. They tell me, that the paint in the can I brought in was not the same that could have been used for the lighter color I needed!

I couldn't believe it! I just need some paint to quickly cover my repaired walls people! It was then they used their computer to find me in their system from 4 years ago. Luckily I knew my painter and as easy as pie...they found me...they found the paint! Why didn't we do this to begin with.

So with paint in hand, I returned home and began to cover. Now...hoping the paints matched after four years, my blood pressure began to rise (you see, these walls connect to an entry way with ceilings sky high...and we are in no position to be repainting whole walls). As it dried I was overjoyed to see the colors matching perfectly. But later, tragedy. The new paint was shiny and the old paint dull. All were eggshell but after four years...eggshell dulls, therefore new paint is shiny.

Now you can see, in many a place, shiny and dull, shiny and dull. Boo to that project. IT will remain as is until further notice!

One room left to do upstairs...SOMMER! She has had the same paint, decor, etc for 5 years. I decided I would go ahead and redo her whole space. And within two or three days we will reveal her new ROOM! And let me tell you it ROCKS! But I am tired.

All of this and so much more have filled the past 30 days:

1. I have 24 piano students each week
2. I ran a triathlon relay (doing the 10k portion), the Army 10 miler and the Baltimore Marathon
3, Trying to go to the temple each week...seem to be averaging every other
4. Primary President
5. Craigslist Seller Extraordinaire (need help...I will help you)
6. Lunching with friends
7. Trying to help Garth get kids to their sports
8. Watching their sports
9. Not writing on my BLOG.

I am all over pjs, couch and ben and jerry's the next 30 days!

Random Happenings

2009-09-28T10:31:00.000-07:00

Since I haven't blogged forever, here is a random sampling of our Haymarket Happenings the past month.

It started with the first day of school. More importantly, my first day with no kids in 14 years.

Ahh...

Here is our street's bus stop.

Elementary School: Ethan (4th grade), Tate (1st grade) and Ashton (Kindergarten)
Middle School: Sommer (8th) and Calvin (6)

They are so cute together and such great friends. Calvin is loving his first year of middle school. He even made the football team being only one of two sixth graders who made it!

Then we went to the Renaissance Festival in Maryland.

Garth is the biggest fan of this annual event. And we love to take him!

Here he is getting ready to win an ax throwing contest. Yes, he did win. He says he was born in the wrong time.

The kids think he is a stud...so do I (minus the donkey hat).

Very tall man...

Our little Fool.

Our Gossip...

Another fool and a sloth...

They were punished and quickly repented.

And then just this past weekend I ran my first triathlon. The only problem is I still haven't swam or biked...maybe next year. Being on a relay was the only way to go...and much warmer.

Here is my teammates: Stephanie (biker extraordinaire) and Vicente (he could have whipped us in any event but since neither of us swim he had to take that slot).

We ended up getting fourth (by 30 seconds...not taking the fall for that one) out of 20 or so teams) and missing the podium...boo.

Garth was sent to Utah to see the BYU game (I won't mention which one). He had a blast with ALL of my siblings (boo again...wish I could have joined in the fun)! Thanks Matt, Mark, Mike and Hilary for showing him a super time!

Why so dorky?

Love my boys!

When Your Happy...

2009-09-28T10:22:00.000-07:00

I love the song, "When Your Happy and You Know it..." I am happy. I know it (I am clapping my hands right now by the way). Nothing spectacular is going on here to make me extra happy. No glamorous vacations planned, money is still tight, so are my pants. Kids still think I am a mean mom, the basement has MESS written all over it. And so on.

But I will tell you a little secret:

I have been getting up early these days. We read scriptures with the kids (sometimes only a verse but reading...), get them all off to school without too much craziness (last year I was awaken by my daughter each morning as she sweetly said from the front door, "bye Mom, I love you." Yes, it is true, I was lazy). We kneel to pray as a family. The dishes are done, lunches are made all before 9 am.

I believe more in the council, "Early to bed, Early to rise." I am still working on the early to bed wisdom but getting up each morning is putting an extra spring in my step.

Get a Grip

2009-09-15T11:52:00.000-07:00

I need to get a grip and start writing on my blog again. I have been so busy I feel like the most I can do is write a one sentence blurb on Facebook these days!

So much has happened the past month:

1. We moved west
2. Had another child
3. Got another dog (and a horse and a coup of chickens)
4. Garth had a face lift
5. Sommer graduated from High School and entered BYU
6. Calvin went on the golf pro circuit and placed!
7. Ethan finished and published his memoires
8. Tate joined the circus
9. Ashton took over as manager at the local McDonald's (mostly for the free chicken nuggets)
10. I retired from running and eat bonn bonns all day.

Wow! I really do need to post more often!

Maybe next week!

Bunny Day

2009-09-02T11:44:00.000-07:00

Finally have a chance to explain bunny photos. We were out of town when the neighbor kid's taking care of Joey hear and see a small animal in his mouth. It ends up being a baby bunny. They find the nest in our backyard, move it to the neighbors safe yard (no kids, animals). Next morning two of the three babies have passed and no sign of the mother. Calvin brings bunny in and checks internet on how to take care of a newborn bunny. Off to Petsmart for "kitty milk" and a bottle. Calvin and his friend Jackson stay up all night to give bunny feedings. The bunny, also known as Thor, lives in their care for 2 days. He passed later the 2nd day and is buried with tombstone (or tombpaper) in our backyard. Precious watching these tough boys taking care of the little creature...