back to the blog

After a month of blogging everyday- then a week off- now I am back.

Last week was not the best week to stop blogging... but I did it anyway... now I am going to try to recap some of the highlights of life.

The house was a mess... (not a highlight)

Brian finished painting the main floor (most of it) without me. That meant everything has been in upheaval. I was too sick to do much about it- and even when I was getting better- I had no energy. So the table looked like this. Covered in homework & junk. But it's all better now- that's all that matters. I am so happy to have a freshly painted family room. Thanks brian!

Wednesday morning Trent & I left bright & early to see Hailey sing the National Anthem at the H.S. end of year assembly.

(notice the sunburn? I was in the shade for two hours at field day, but still got sunburned)

It started later than we thought which was a little distressing to trent, but when it started- SHE DID SO GOOD! she really knocked it out of the park. wow- i was beaming with pride & so thrilled for her.

Trent & I went out to the car & in my rush to be on time, I learned that I had lost my car keys...

Good thing brian hadn't left for work yet!

Brett was out of town most of the week on business....

Speaking of work...

last week Brian was offered a great, well paying job at a well know warehouse national chain- then three afters after he accepted- the MTC called. They offered him his "dream job" teaching districts of Spanish speaking elders how to teach missionary discussions. After much prayer- He took it. He is loving life, looking & feeling like he is a missionary again. It's a once in a life time chance - teaching new elders how to teach & he couldn't be happier. He comes home everyday saying- I LOVE MY JOB! He has truly been blessed- now if we could just get the poison ivy to clear up? he has another doctors appointment today. itchy itchy

Wednesday was field day- and I forgot my camera....

But Thursday Kristy & I made this for Trent & Jake's fourth grade teacher.

It's a bouquet of hand prints intermingled with $150 worth of gift cards.

We had each of the kids draw their hand print & write inside it what the loved about their teacher & took donations for the gift cards. It turned out FANTastIC!!

School was officially out for Hailey Thursday after the assembly. For Chloe Friday morning after getting her year book. Trent didn't get out until 1:30 Friday afternoon & it proved to be a very difficult day for him - lots of goodbye tears.

He had one of the best teachers any of my children have had the privilege to have!

She is an amazing lady who gave up a career in Food Science to teach kids, emphasizing science. We couldn't ask for a better year for trent!

Trent & his bff at school - Eric.

Eric will be going to a different school next year. Extra tears.

the end of the year ceremonies

The Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem & Lowering of the flag.

Friday night Hooray- brett was home & you won't believe what I netflixed

TRANSFORMERS II

We put it on the Clear Play and Trent was in seventh heaven. He finally got to watch the movie of his dreams without the cussing & sexual innuendo. Now maybe we can stop talking about it? Oh no-- he has watched it multiple times & still wants to watch it again.

Saturday night we had a birthday BBQ for Brett & I only took one picture- this one of the peanut in a Spider man mask & Batman gloves-

Sunday-

Hailey bore her testimony in sacrament meeting

brett left for another convention

and

brian & I spent the evening eating popcorn, visiting & watching a lightening storm on the front porch.

It seems like it took forever-

but summer is finally

here

shopping trip

Honestly this week has been a little tough. All the storms have brought on killer arthritis pain that had really gotten to me by this morning. I just didn't want to get going.

The wedding photographer called to remind us the photos were in so Brett & I decided to get out of the house & went down into the valley to pick them up. They are so beautiful! I was so thrilled to finally pick them up from the photographer.

Since we were half way there, Brett wanted to head on down to Cabela's. Well, you know, I had no make up on & I was wearing my favorite old sweatshirt. Heck it's Cabela's, Brett reminded me. Shoot, I should fit right in.Well as luck would have it... this weekend is ANTLER FEST 2008!

Do we have great timing or what?

And we didn't even know it- how lucky can you get?-

good livin'- I tell ya.

While Brett was looking at manly stuff I decided to go on my own little shopping trip. In case you haven't done any Father's DAy shopping you may want to go get a pen & paper.

Here are a few of my favorite finds.

My first favorite find of the day was a 16 piece set of whitetail buck dinnerware.

I can't believe Megan didn't register here! What was she thinking?Next a whole isle of duck decoys. Who knew?

I thought I would take a picture of the Ammo isle, but low & behold they had so much of it- there is no way I could get it all in one photo.Cases & cases of ammo.

This little gal was checking out some ammo with her dad. It must have been some kind of daddy daughter date. She probably got a new piece for her birthday or something. It reminded me of when I was a girl sometimes (maybe it was just once) my dad would take me & my sister to sears with him to look at tools. I think my mom made him just to get us out of the house. If we were lucky we would stop by the candy counter & get Swedish fish or maple nut goodies.
back to the fabulous finds...
I love this Alaskan all weather lighter- it's even on sale!
If you & dad are ever up in the arctic & need a cigarette here you go. Brett said it could be for lighting fires but hey, is there wood up in the arctic?
This little beauty is one of my favorites.
Just in time for FAther's day. A CAMouFlage recliner!
Holy Moly- sign me up! I think they may have free delivery...

If you are looking for a man- there's this Love Triangle. Apparently you set up these three decoys & a "tom" should come a courtin'. I know a "tom" is a male turkey but a lot of men I know are turkeys- so maybe it'll work. You could set this up outside the store & get a couple of guys right away.
This is my absolute favorite.

"within hours the novice can produce a great looking mount that will add an interesting touch to any sportsman's room. Kit includes: body form, tail material, eyes, eye set, wire, needle and thread, preservative, & complete instructions."

I'm keeping my eye on this kit for Trent's next birthday. Talk about great party favors. I would be the talk of the neighborhood for sure!

Look no farther for that great father's day dinner idea-

Freeze dried lasagna.

Who needs to cook? Just add water & heat!

Brett says I'm mocking him.

He may not bring me with him next time.

I thought it was kind of fun.

Everyone Loves Sees

I have been working a lot because of the busy holiday season. This is one of the many ladies I work with- I'm not sure she wants me to put her name on my blog? She is so much fun to work with & a GREAT cook just like her mom. Saturday I left my camera at work after taking this picture, I felt like I had left my right arm. Blogging has truly changed my life. Here is a picture of Hailey who didn't want to go to the church Christmas breakfast so I took a picture to document it. I am calling it - Hailey At Fourteen. Every time I take pictures I look through the camera afterward & the ones of her have mysteriously disappeared. hmmmm

My dear friend brought this by yesterday. Isn't this the cutest thing you have ever seen?! It's a box of graham crackers, bag of marshmallows, & large chocolate bar. The little marshmallow ornament matches the plate which has a quote on it that says "Let it Smore."

Here is the note with the indoor smores recipe. She also made smaller versions for neighborhood gifts that had a smaller pack of grahams, ziploc of marshmallows, large candy bar... you get the idea. I just had to share this idea because it's such a great one.

And, as if you needed more proof of how fantastic See's Chocolates are...

Sunday morning I was reading a book with Trent and I could hear Max eating in the dining room. No big deal, right? Then later I went into the kitchen & he was just eating as fast as he could knowing he was about to be in big trouble! I couldn't believe it. The kids had put all of the packages under the tree. He probably could smell it & just couldn't take it anymore!

It's a good thing they are replaceable.

I tell ya, everyone loves See's.

Tons of Good Mail & Max- Busy Day #3

Today I picked up Brittany my niece, we went shopping, to breakfast at Einstein bagels, then I dropped her off at the airport. She's going home early for Christmas. You just won't believe it... I forgot my camera- gosh dang it! I hate when I do that. Just goes to show you can't do everything.

Einsteins has these ADORABLE CANDY CANE BAGELS. I'm not kidding you they are so cute! (the picture doesn't do them justice)

They are cranberry orange & plain bagel wrapped around to make a candy cane then sprinkled in powdered sugar. I was overwhelmed thinking... who can I buy these for & why, oh why did I stop my great gift idea list?

Max & I went to the post office with this great stash of good mail.

Sending good mail gives me such a high. Poor Max is so lonely when I am busy & gone all day.

Great Gift Ideas... I'm done

An update. I am out of great gift ideas - except for gift cards to restaurants- or anywhere really. I love the idea of someone getting exactly what they want. I also love the idea of dinner out!

The winner of the See's Chocolates is Sherri- my dear friend Karen's sister.

I love her comment...

"I bet no one has the same Sees favorite as me! No one else in my family or my husband's likes these. It's the Mayfairs. Milk chocolate with chopped cherries, walnuts & cherry nougat. So good!Sherri from Seattle"

I have to admit I thought I had tried a mayfair but hadn't- I tried one today though. Good- I don't think I have ever had a See's I didn't like. I am so happy that she reads my blog & commented. You guys just don't know how much I enjoy your comments. Don't make me beg... keep the comments coming!

Happy Christmas shopping.

In sharing my favorite gift ideas I hope you are inspired & I'm sure you've learned something new about me. I know I have.

*do you have a great gift idea?.... I'm out.

Patsy's Great Gift Idea #7

A Nativity Set

I love nativities. I collect them but have plenty & I don't places for them all! There is something so sweet about getting a Nativity set for Christmas. I like to give them early - when I do - so that the recipient has a chance to really use them during the Christmas holidays. I gave one to my mother in law who keeps it up in her curio cabinet all year long.

I really think this one is the coolest ever!

I want one for the grand kids I will have someday- I hope. Can you believe how adorable?!

Nativities range from $1.99 up to thousands. They fit in every one's budget. What a great last minute or any minute gift. Plus, you can find them anywhere. Deseret Book has a large selection from different countries this year, they are really beautiful and interesting.

Pick up a Nativity set for your family if you don't have one & one for the kids you love (there are many kid friendly ones around besides the one shown.)

You can find the Fisher price Nativity Set here.

Patsy's Great Gift Ideas #6

A Starbucks Gift Card

Yesterday when Brett & I went shopping out in the snow storm we decided we needed to sit down & redefine our list. So we went to Starbucks to get some hot cocoa & work on it.

I don't drink coffee, but I really love Starbucks. Just walking in one is pure joy. The smell, the design of them, the funky crowd that works there - they are such hip little places. I was delighted when one was finally put into my little town this year.

I got a Hot Carmel Apple Cider grande with a blueberry scone- oh my... mmmmmm. (the pastries there are so good too.) Brett got a hot cocoa then decided he wanted my cider (because it's to die for) so half way we traded. I'm just that kind of gal.

I was so excited when I saw these at the check out counter.

So soft- little mitten gift card holders. Are these darling or what? And better yet they are free with the purchase of any amount on a gift card.
So we bought six $5.00 gift cards for teachers etc. Trent has many teachers, and each one has a note that says "Have a hot cider & scone on us!" Of course they can get whatever they want, but I'm telling you if they don't at least try the Hot Carmel Apple Cider... mmmm they're crazy, and so are you. If it's not on the menu don't sweat it. Just order it like you know what you're doing & they will make it for you anyway. I did this in New York City last year right after watching "Live with Regis & Kelly," that's another story, but there was a Starbucks right across the street from the studio & it wasn't on the menu. I just walked up & asked they knew exactly what I meant.

So if you are from outer space or something & can't find a Starbucks...???

You can order a card here.

* do you love Starbucks too?

*have you had the Hot Carmel Apple Cider...mmmmm?

Patsy's Great Christmas Idea #5

A Children's Christmas Book

For about 12 years I have been giving my sister in law Keri a children's Christmas book for Christmas. I love everything about giving these books. Reading & looking through all the books for the perfect one is so fun for me. I take if very seriously. I love children's books, they are so fun to read & I love a good illustrator. I wish I was a good illustrator. Anyhow, over the years I have come up with quite a list of favorites. This is my all time favorite. It is perfect for kids & adults alike. If you have never read it... please next time you are in a book store pick it up. It literally takes just a minute or too to read but the message is so deep & beautiful. (*Note-it's really about Christ.)

Christmas books like these are an inexpensive yet classy gift to give. They make great hostess gifts and can be personalized in the cover for the perfect keepsake to be brought out year after year. They range from deeply spiritual to just plain fun. I like to mix it up & buy something different from year to year. This one has become a tradition every Christmas Eve at Keri's house. I take that as a compliment.

Knowing she doesn't read my blog I am going to share with you my pick this year...

This book couldn't be more darling. It's a really fun little read. I read it with Trent & Chloe on the couch the other night & we laughed out loud. I love giving & receiving these delightful, easy to read & share books.

You can buy them at any bookstore or online here

*do you like picture books?

*do you have a favorite Christmas book?

Patsy's Great Gift Idea #4

See's Chocolates...does it get any better than this?

Last year I sent all of my siblings a 1 lb. box of nuts & chews. Every year since I can remember we've sent a small box to Brett's sweet aunt in Virginia. This is the easiest gift to give & send. Just a few clicks & it's off. They have just about any price range too. This is my absolute favorite chocolate in the whole world. I don't care what anyone says... there's just no other like it. It is so great. Everytime I buy chocolates from somewhere else (which isn't very often) I am dissapointed. Not enough like See's.

I have a lot of fond memories of See's. Which by the way, you can't get back east. My sister Debbie used to always get me a piece when we went shopping at South Center mall growing up. It seems like it was a lot, but I was young so maybe it was just once. Either way the memory is stuck in my mind and it's a good one. I also remember one year someone sent what seemed at the time a huge box to our family when I was young. It was so exciting. I remember sitting on the top bunk playing a game with my other older sister Johnna & we had the box of chocolate up there with us.

It's so fun to bite into a piece and see what you've got. I personally like the nuts & chews. Also their bridge mix is like nothing you've ever tried- trust me. My favorite piece... well, the scotch mallow, or the chocolate covered walnut, or the rectangle one with the carmel & almonds then half way dipped in milk chocolate, the victorian toffee, or maybe the key lime pie truffle, the blueberry truffle... you get the idea.

Order See's Chocolate's Here

*have you ever had See's Chocolate?

* what's your favorite piece?

Patsy's Great Gift Idea #3

Children's Museum Yearly/Six Month Pass

Several years back my sweet sister in law Beth gave our family one of the best gifts ever. A pass to the children's museum in Seattle. Of course, we lived in the area then. (It wouldn't be much good here in Utah now would it?)

The kids absolutely loved it. We only got to go a couple of times before we moved to Denver & when we got there we bought one there. It was such a great thing for our kids!

Why do I love it? You can go anytime! It's air conditioned in the summer, heated in the winter, & endless fun for the whole family. When we came to Utah 10 years ago the Salt Lake children's museum was extremely lacking. But good news for us... the new one at the Gateway just opened last year & it is state of the art - fantastic! It is pricey but worth it. We didn't get one right off the bat because I was so silly thinking we needed one for 8 people. Like Megan, Brian, jack or even Hailey are going to want to go?! (Downsizing my family has been difficult for me.)

So for Christmas we are getting a pass that will be for Brett & I, Chloe, Trent & a friend. That way they can bring someone with them or on the off chance one of the older kids want to go we are prepared. (hey a gal can dream can't she?)

Check out the Salt Lake City Gateway Children's Discovery Museum here.

*have you ever been to a children's museum?

Patsy's Great Gift Idea #2

I absolutely love to go to the symphony.

I think it was all the years of violin lessons - which I gave up for cheer leading- which is definitely on my top five stupidest things I've done in my life list (which will not be posted anytime soon.)

I couldn't find it on their web site but for several years we bought our family the lollipops series ticket. It's a great deal 3 kid friendly Saturday matinee symphonies that run 45 minutes and are very interactive. The last time I bought a ticket it was $65.00 for the whole family- for all three concerts!! That's a steal and cheaper than going to the movies. Amazing. They even have a great Christmas concert along with that. You can go early & see the best Santa Claus you've ever seen in your life. I think he may even be the real guy!

Now, I know you are asking yourself, "If this is so great why haven't you bought a pass for the last two years." Well, I have really wanted to. I even debated just buying myself & some neighbor kids or just some kids off the streets some tickets. But you see, I have Trent. Whom I love- don't get me wrong. But when he started screaming, "concerts are for girls, scouts is for boys!!" I knew we had to take a break. Call me a wimp but the embarrassment on the entire family just got to me. So guess what we are going to do next year! We are going back. Now that he is a couple of years older I won't miss a year again.

So if anyone out there wants to buy me tickets... I'm taking.

To get to the Utah Symphony web site click here.

*does your city have a symphony?

*do they offer a children's series of concerts?

Patsy's Great Gift Idea #1

In honor of Design Mom- Gabrielle Blair & her sister Jordan I am posting what I think are several great Christmas gift ideas every day this week.

Gift Idea #1

This one is fantastic. It's a twist on the great computer game

Mahjong.

(click above to go to the website)

Except it's your own family addition!

Maybe you have played mahjong before? Instead of the patterned tiles the game usually comes with, you submit YOUR OWN FAMILY PHOTOS and make your own family addition. How great is that? Once you pay for the original addition you can send it to whomever you want. It's such a great idea. My family lives far apart & it's a great way for the kids to get to know- recognize the people they hear about all the time but only see a couple of times a year. Even if you all lived on the same block- I love this game idea.

My family will be playing the Messer addition soon!

Won't we look good with our little faces on tiles? Who knows maybe you'll be there!

*did you check out the game's website?

*what do you think?