My life with boys....

My week in pictures: 05/13 - 05/19/12

May 13, 2012 - Mother's Day.  I actually have two pictures for today!  I'd even say that this was the BEST day of the week!  Why?  Because we had the opportunity to skype with our missionary today.  We only get to do it twice a year while he is on his mission.  I'm very impressed and very grateful that there are places in Cambodia where he can do this.  It's also a rare occasion these days to get a picture of me with all five of my sons.... even though one of them is on the computer screen (he's still smiling for the camera!)  I love my boys!

May 14, 2012 - This was taken at Doheny State Beach near Dana Point in Southern California.  We met up with some of our Nielsen relatives and had a picnic.  It was fun to see them!

May 15, 2012 - Any guesses on where I am?  Not hard to tell.  I love watching them make the sweet confections at the Candy Palace on Main Street U.S.A. 

May 16, 2012 - This particular trip included just four of us.  Cory and I, with Russell and Jessica.  Everyone else was at home.  Since as long as I can remember THIS is one of Russell's FAVORITE picture spots.  He's always been very interested in fantasy type stories and the one of Kink Arthur is one of his favorites.  I think I'd even go so far as to say the book, "The Man Who Would Be King" is his favorite. 

May 17, 2012 - Souvenirs for the people we left behind!!!  We left Jacob and Michael in the care of Alan and Katelyn while we were away. 

May 18, 2012 - Tonight was the first of two nights where we attended a fundraiser for the marching band.  They held a celebrity basketball game with the alumni of the Harlem Globetrotters.  WHAT. A. FUN. NIGHT!!  We really enjoyed ourselves.  I must also say how impressed I was with the Globetrotters and their willingness to come to help raise money for the band to go to the Rose parade.  I was also impressed with some of the "celebrities" that came to play against the Globetrotters.   People like the president of the Utah Jazz, former Jazz player Ron Boone, and non other than the Governor of Utah - Gary Herbert! (who can play a good game!)  He even took one for the team when he was "tackled" by a Globetrotter, resulting in a foul.  It was also very nice of him to pose for a picture with Michael!!

May 19, 2012 - Another night at the fundraiser.  This time we did some volunteer work.  Jacob and Jaden were somewhat helpful in the concessions!  I was later told that Jacob was quite helpful in selling the Sour Skittles!! 

My Michael....

Sometimes he feels forgotten.  Sometimes he feels like he's lost in the shuffle of everyone elses lives.  However, he's part of the very center of my life.  Being the youngest of five boys has sometimes taken it's toll.  He's been picked on and felt ignored.  BUT, I do know that he IS greatly loved by his older brothers. 

I have noticed that he seems to be lost in some of my posts as well.  It's all about a missionary, or a wedding, or a band competition, or whatever.... but usually, it's not always about HIM.

But I do notice him.  I do notice that he is a very special person.  He tries to fit in with the older brothers.  He tries to fit in with other kids.  Sometimes he's misunderstood.  Sometimes HE misunderstands.  Sometimes he tries too hard, sometimes he doesn't try hard enough.  BUT... when he thinks nobody is looking... I AM. 

He sold his Ipod a couple of weeks ago.  I wasn't too pleased, but it was his choice.  He then had some of his own money to do as he pleased.  He ALWAYS has ideas for how we can spend his DAD's money.  In fact, it's a never ending list.  But when he has his OWN money, he's more careful about his choices... and the amount those choices will cost. 

When he came into this cash from the sale of his Ipod he came up with an idea.  At first I had no clue, but then I realized what he was up to and let him go about his business.  First, unbeknownst to me, he took my cell phone and found one of my contacts phone numbers.  This contact was my friend Brandy who sells Paparazzi Jewelry and Accessories.  He then proceeded to secretly get a hold of her and make arrangements for him to come to her house.   He told me he had to ride his bike to her house to "do something in her yard" and off he went.  After watching him stash some cash into his pocket I let him go. 

I knew better.  I knew what he was up to.  But I didn't let him know.   I actually did NOT want him spending his money on me.  But I also knew that I had to let him do this for me.  I knew that Mother's Day was coming up and he is a kid that LOVES to GIVE. 

He soon came home and hurried away to hide what he had retrieved in Brandy's "yard." 

Now here I am today.  Mother's day.  He presented me with a beautifully wrapped gift of a necklace and a bracelet. (He did inform me that Brandy helped him wrap it - and told me that she told him she doesn't do that for just anyone - thanks Brandy!)  He chose the brown colors so I would have something to wear when I am at the DHS band competitions. 

My Michael.  He's impatient, ornery, stubborn, and a developing TEENAGER! 

But more than that... he's loving, giving, thoughtful, kind, helpful, grateful, compassionate, friendly, and Christ like. 

But even more than that??  He's my Michael. 

My week in pictures: 05/06 - 05/12/12

May 6, 2012 - Playing pool with the boys.

May 7, 2012 - We went to the ball park to watch my adult nephews play softball.  Their wives and children were there too.  This is Michael with Mason.  Mason is my great-nephew since he is the son of my nephew Jeremy.  He's a way cute little guy and always so polite  and well behaved when we see him.  He is a very passionate fan of BYU.... but I still like him!!  :-)

 

May 8, 2012 - Found this note on my computer desk.... I have yet to comply.

May 9, 2012 - Michael and his friend Trevor thought it would be fun to practice their instruments here. 

May 10, 2012 - I didn't work at the deli today.  I was there to meet Cory for lunch.  Alan was filling in for someone today and enjoyed working with one of his favorite cousins... Caitlin.

May 11, 2012 - I bought the boys some Apple Beer (non alcoholic) at Cafe Rio.  Jacob was happy.  Michael drank his the moment I bought it.  For some reason that stuff packs in the air when Michael drinks it because when he finishes the noises that come out of his mouth can rock a city. 

May 12, 2012 - Any question as to which one of these people are the LEAST excited about doing yard work?  I should also add that it was very nice of Alan to come help in the yard since he is no longer obligated since he no longer lives here.  But, he's a good boy and likes to help us still.

My week in Pictures: 04/29 - 05/05/12

April 29, 2012 - We were invited to join our friends for Sunday dinner!  Lance and Brandy Edwards used to live on the same street as us, but unfortunately they moved a couple of years ago.  Luckily they didn't move too far and we still get to see them!!  Great family, great friends!! 

April 30, 2012 - My latest favorite thing to do.... Words With Friends!  I love that it makes me think.  I love that it's not a demanding game.  I can send a word either get an immediate reply from an opponent, or even wait a few hours or even a few days.  It's okay.  I just check to see if someone sent me a word and I send one right back.  Sometimes I win, sometimes I don't.  Sometimes I get a word with a lot of points and I freak out!  Sometimes I don't.  I have about 8 or nine games going right now with my friend Brandy!  One with my cousin Andrew, one with my niece Caitlin, one with my friend Amy from the neighborhood, and one with Jacob.  And if anyone else wants to start a game with me... I'm up for it!!! 

May 1, 2012 - Went to lunch with Alan and Katelyn today.  When it comes to taking his picture... Alan will never change.  (thank goodness)

May 2, 2012 - What?  Is that really Jacob doing his homework??  Don't mind the look on his face, he likes to make me think he's mad.

May 3, 2012 - Um.... well... Russell and his friends thought it would be a good idea to gather at OUR HOUSE before heading to the midnight showing of The Avengers.  These guys have all been great friends since high school.  Some since elementary school.  Now some of them are married, so the group is getting bigger.  Russell is dressed as Captain America... of course.  His favorite.  He made the costume from duct tape.  He also made the Iron Man costume from duct tape.  (That is actually Jacob in the Iron Man costume... the one who was supposed to wear it wasn't there yet)

May 4, 2012 - We all went to see The Avengers together this afternoon.  This is Jacob and Michael testing what it would be like to watch the movie in D-Box experience  (where the chairs move with the action of the movie).  I tried it.... there is NO WAY I could watch a movie that way.  I'd be so sick before the opening scene was over.

May 5, 2012 - I had hopes of getting a better picture today.  However, it's been an unusually long day.  Nothing too exciting to report either.  Today does happen to be May 5th.  So, in the "tradition" of Cinco de Mayo... we ate tacos for dinner.  I didn't even get a picture of that, but I'm sure there is someone in this world who is far far away that would prefer that of all foods I could take a picture of..... I do NOT show... tacos.  So.... here's some chips and salsa. 

My week in pictures: 4/22 - 4/28/12

April 22, 2012 - The family across the street from us is moving.  Another family up the street invited many from the neighborhood to come visit and say their goodbyes.  While we were there I got a picture of yet another neighbor.  Rafael.  He keeps me laughing every time I see him.  He was going  a little nuts because I kept telling him how cute his kids were and that he should have more.  His face was priceless when I would say it. 

April 23, 2012 - Michael came home and presented me with this pillow he made at school.  I love that it looks like a hamburger!! 

April 24, 2012 - My friend Melissa and I share carpool responsibilities for our boys.  She takes them to school in the morning and I pick them up in the afternoon.  It has worked out so well.  Michael and Gavin have known each other long before they have lived across the street from each other.  So sometimes they argue like brothers.  But I'm sure they will be great friends forever. 

April 25, 2012 - I am in Provo, UT with some of the women in my family.  We are here for BYU Women's Conference.  This time we are all staying in the same hotel too!  This is the evening before the conference starts and we just enjoyed a really good meal at Sizzler.  L - R: My sister Lesley, my mom, my sister-in-laws Marivic & Margie, Margie's sister Suzie, and Marivic's sisters Maries and Marle.

April 26, 2012 - I am now on BYU campus.  Imagine that.  Anyone that knows me.... well.  You know.   But I WILL say, regardless of my feeling of BYU sports - (most especially FOOTBALL), I'd be pleased if my kids wanted to attend this school.  This is the bell tower that tolls each hour.  Well, actually I heard it make noise on the half hour too.  However, on the hour the bells will ring to the tune of a hymn.  Which is nice.  I wonder if the students here appreciate it and if it helps bring a calm to them?

April 27, 2012 - The last day of the conference.  I loved this day.  First because one of the classes, that turned out to be my favorite, was taught by my own Stake President and his wife.  In the closing session of the conference, Elder Neil L. Anderson from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was our final speaker.  When the conference was finished and the thousands of women (and some men) left the Marriott Center, he walked around and shook the hands of some of the women who were on the bottom rows of the arena.  We stayed and watched he and his wife as they graciously greeted each of them.  As the arena emptied, my sister and I went down to where we knew he would be exiting in hopes to also be able to see him up close and possibly shake his hand.  We were both very happy that he did take the time to reach up to both of us and shake our hands.  What a great experience to be in the presence of a man whom I believe to be an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

April 28, 2012 - I was dropping my mom off at home the day after the conference ended.  When we got there I saw two of my older brothers, Archie and Tim, helping my dad repair his fence.  It was fun to see them since we don't get to see each other very often. 

What is a blanket fort and a bone bucket worth?

In my last post I mentioned the Moonlight Serenade.  There is one aspect of that evening that I did not talk about.  Reason being... it deserves a post all by itself. 

Each year there is a silent auction held each evening during the event.  Several businesses, or individuals donate items to auctioned off and the proceeds go to the band program.  This year, it happened that the trombone section of the band thought it a good idea to donate some items relating specifically to them.  One of those being a blanket fort.  The other, "the bone bucket."  Now, a blanket fort seems quite easy to explain and I know that they have made these forts when gathered together at certain band events... as well as on the bus when traveling to competitions.  The other is the "bone bucket" in which each member of the section brings a very delicious full of sugar treat to share with each other to put in the trom"bone" bucket... specifically meant to be consumed at Band Camp.

So.... the reason for this post.  Jacob and some of the guys from the section decided to create a "Blanket Fort Starter Kit" and a "Bone Bucket" to be donated for auction on the last evening of  Moonlight Serenade.  They wanted these to be auctioned off separately.  They gathered here and enlisted me to take a few pictures (as well as Alan to be in a few shots) They wanted to have an instruction booklet made up for whomever wins the blanket fort starter kit.  So, I took pictures.  Though I only snapped the photos, I had nothing to do with the poses. 

THESE are the instructions they came up with - the following is in THEIR WORDS along with explanatory pictures (which was made into a booklet to go with the BF Starter Kit)

Congratulations on your purchase of this Blanket Fort Starter Kit!!!!!

Instructions:

1. Unwrap the packaging.

2.Tape/Tack given sheets to walls/ ceiling in desired fashion. For best use, try putting the given sheets in a quadrilateral fashion (chairs may also be used to create desired shape).

 3. Place Bone Bucket* inside the Blanket Fort Starter Kit in a desired location.

4. Create secret knock/call and response password

         a:  Ex- ‘Secret knock’ Call: “How many licks does it take to get to the center of the Titanic?”     Response: “Obi-Wan.”

5.  Invite desired peers.

6. Brag Call those who were not invited.

7. Enjoy Blanket Fort Starter Kit as desired.

             a:  Apply hearty laughs liberally

*Bone Bucket sold/assembled separately.

Throughout the evening we found that there were bids taking place on these items and Jacob was pretty giddy about it.  We heard that several people just enjoyed the instruction booklet.  My parents had left earlier than us and when they announced that the silent auction would soon close I went over to see how these items were doing.  I was STUNNED to see that MY MOTHER had bid $45 for the blanket fort!  Luckily for her... she was out bid.  But when I called her the next day and asked why she bid on the blanket fort she said, "I thought I was bidding on the "bone bucket."  I'm sure my mother is breathing a sigh of relief now.

But for the record MOM .... I'm all for supporting the band, but since MY CHILD is part of that band and we have a long way to go on HIS personal funding for that.... go ahead and just drop that $45 in HIS account!  Ha ha ha!

 

Moonlight Serenade...

I'm pretty sure I've mentioned this event before.  And I'm pretty sure this won't be the last time I mention it either.  It's the annual Moonlight Serenade held at Davis High.  It's sponsored by the band program, which if you don't know me by now... you'd know we wholeheartedly support this band.

*Jacob and I on the night I was a parent volunteer. 

Some have turned away from this event.  Not because they don't like it.  I really think its because they just DON'T KNOW what it is.  Some just can't truly understand HOW a high school cafeteria can be turned into something like this.  They also seem to think, "Really?  Prime Rib or Halibut?  From a HIGH SCHOOL?"  Well, yes... sort of.  I mean, you ARE in a high school cafeteria.  However, the food is NOT made by the school district.   And in all honesty, you cannot get the meal, plus entertainment, plus dancing for the price you pay.  At least, not this kind of quality. 

The students do a lot of the work.  They don't cook the food, but they are there to greet you, seat you, serve you non alcoholic drinks, keep your water glass filled, and serve you food.  This time we had to wait a little longer than normal for our food and I had to keep reminding myself this was NOT a restaurant and they were doing the best they could for a bunch of teenagers.   Who also do a lot of the behind the scenes work as well with dish washing, set up and clean up. There are some parent volunteers as well, but the kids do most of the work.  I was a parent volunteer for one night and though I knew the kids appreciated my willingness to help, they WANTED to do it without me being too involved.  And that was fine with me.

*Jacob and some of his friends the night I was there as a patron - pay no attention to their name tags.

The students also provide all the entertainment.  From the AMAZING Jazz Band to the Moonlight Singers, and Moonlight Dancers performing the floor shows.  

Have I mentioned that his is something they do for THREE NIGHTS IN A ROW???

*Jacob pouring water and providing lemons for his Aunt Margie.  She must have her lemons with her water or watch out!!  Haha....

*Cory and I dancing

I used to be one of those that didn't understand.  I used to be one of those that questioned what the heck this event is.  Once I had a student in the band (Taylor) I was thrust into it.  I'm glad.  I wish I had known better sooner.  We didn't have a student in the band last year, and we still went.  My parents always enjoy going with us, as to Tim and Margie.  This year I was able to convince Mike and Lesley to go as well.  We will always go.  It really is one of those events you look forward to every year.  At least, it is for me.  

Official invitation...

It is an extremely rare, if EVER occasion where I would take a picture of Jacob (or any of my boys) wearing a DHS Marching Band uniform in April.  However, as opportunity would have it, I did. 

This past Saturday the band held an event where they welcomed the Tournament of Roses President, Sally Bixby, as she officially invited them to participate in the Rose Parade on January 1, 2013. Many of the band members were there in uniform to perform.  (several of those are even seniors that won't be part of the band next year).   There was a few speeches, and presentations of gifts, performances by the band, and the presentation of the Tournament of Roses flag. 

I was impressed by this president.  Not that she said anything specific that left an impression on me.  In fact, I can't remember most of what she said.  However, it was mentioned that 80 bands from around the world apply to perform in that parade and only 15 of them are accepted.  FIFTEEN.  From around the whole world.  This is what impressed me about Mrs. Bixby.... she has, and will, travel to meet every one of those bands to officially invite them.  Not only that, but she took the time to greet EVERY SINGLE ONE of those band members.  EVERY ONE!  She gave each of them a signed poster with the parade theme on it, and a commemorative pin. 

I stood and waited for Jacob to get his turn to get his poster.  As each of those kids said their name and she signed the poster I waited.  When it was time for Jacob to get his I leaned in and asked if she would pose with him for a picture.  She was very gracious and very happy to do it. Some may not think that's too big of a deal.  But really, to take the time to greet each and every member of each and every band, that is impressive to me. 

Now the kids are getting very excited for the upcoming season.  They are now just more and more excited for school to end because as soon as school is out..... marching band season begins!  Here's to the future of the trombone section!  Next years section leader (on the left) and the section squad leader... Jacob! 

My week in pictures 4/15 - 4/21/12

April 15, 2012 - Just the random stuff of brothers.  Russell was here for a few minutes and Jacob wanted to carry him on his back.  I seriously do not remember why????

April 16, 2012 - Cory had to leave town so I decided now would be a good time to get some major housework done.  I've been wanting to CLEAN the house.  I mean CLEAN!  The problem I have, like most everyone else, is that once a room is clean someone goes right in behind me and messes it up again.  At least, that's how it seems.  So, I CLEANED the main level family room.  I then moved all the chairs from the kitchen table and placed them across the room so NOBODY would go in there.  What I need is some of that yellow "DO NOT CROSS" tape that policemen have. 

April 17, 2012 - Still attempting to CLEAN!  I pulled the stove out, and the fridge and scrubbed and did the best I could.  I still don't think it's clean enough.  However, I now refuse to cook anything and only allow anyone in the kitchen for a few minutes at a time.  Cory is still out of town... so, it's easy to just get pizza, or In-N-Out Burger until I absolutely HAVE to cook in there!  (still haven't removed the chairs from the family room either....) so basically nobody can even sit at the kitchen table.  Which now means they can't go in the family room AND they can't drop anything on my nice clean freshly mopped floor.  Seriously... do NOT go in there!

April 18, 2012 - Tired of cleaning.  Though I DID clean off this desk before sitting down to add some CD's to the Itunes on my comptuter.  Notice the white cup (crushed ICE) and the cell phone showing Words With Friends.  I can't get enough of that game. 

April 19, 2012 - My visiting teachers came today.  I sure do enjoy having them visit me.  We probably visit for much longer than we should, but they are good to me and are very diligent in coming to visit me each month. 

April 20, 2012 - The annual Moonlight Serenade is happening at DHS this week.  Jacob has been helping there already.  Tonight I get to help the waiters.  Jacob loves when I do stuff with him.  Makeks him feel all warm and fuzzy inside to have his mom tagging along everywhere.  Or not.

April 21, 2012 - This has actually be a busy day and I took lots of pictures.    Some of the events of today actually deserve their own blog post.  Deciding what would be my official picture of the day was easy though.  This is Jacob and Sally Bixby.  She is the President of the Tournament of Roses Parade.  She was here at DHS today to officially invite the marching band to participate in the parade New Years Day 2013. 

My week in pictures: 04/08 - 04/14/12

April 8, 2012 - Easter Sunday.  After church we headed south to see Cory's family.  It was nice to see everyone and spend a little bit of time together. This is Cory's mom with five of her children.  Cory, Darla, Teryle, Tammy and Wendy.

April 9, 2012 - Michael doing what he does EVERY DAY OF HIS LIFE... playing basketball!

April 10, 2012 - I didn't take this picture.  Jacob did.  Apparently Jacob and another friend had been walking through the neighborhood and came upon this stinkin' cute little guy and his big brother.  We haven't been able to spend as much time with them lately as we used to.  The little guys were excited to see Jacob and he stayed and played with them a few minutes.  When Jacob announced that he had to leave, he was given this look on the little guys face....

April 11, 2012 - I pick Jacob up from school every day.   Today he was standing with his friend Zach as he waited for me.  I asked to take a picture and then another friend showed up.  They were all willing to smile for the camera!  Jacob has a ton of really great friends.  These guys happen to be part of the trombone section in the band.  I will FOREVER be grateful for that band!   My sons have made lifetime friendships with GOOD KIDS!!!!

April 12, 2012 - It rained, and rained, and rained.  Then while Jacob was in his room he could hear a "trickling" sound coming from the next room.  Sure enough the window well was flooded and water was leaking through the edges around the window.  The shoppe vac came out, Michael and his friend Gavin grabbed a bucket, and Jacob grabbed duct tape to stop the leaks.  I mentioned the tape would get wet and not work.  He told me that after watching the show Myth Busters he knew the tape would work because they had tested it... even in a boat.... he was right.  It stopped the leaks.  Though we now have wet walls and wet carpet.  Oh JOY!  Best part???  The rain had NOTHING to do with it.  Apparently today was the day the secondary water was turned on by the city and our pipes were open.  Ooooops.  (the picture is of Jacob in the house while I can see Michael and Gavin through the dirty window).

April 13, 2012 - There is an episode of Everybody Loves Raymond titled..."The Suitcase" in which Ray and Debra come home from a weekend away and Ray leaves the suitcase sitting on the stairs.  Well, three weeks later the suitcase is still there.....neither one of them willing to move it, both thinking it's the responsibility of the other to remove it and put it away.  Well, its been over TWO WEEKS now since Cory returned from Korea.  This is HIS suitcase.  Still.  Hasn't moved.  I've been waiting for it to go away.  I've even vacuumed around it a couple of times.  Yeah.  Still there.  I am sick of looking at it, but also hoping to make a point.  Though, I don't think it's working.  So, it looks like I'll be the one.  You know... "the one who got it."  (Watch the episode!)

April 14, 2012 - DHS Junior Prom.  Jake's first Prom.  He took his friend Katie.  I was able to be the one to take the group pictures.  I told him I'd meet his group at the State Capital building.  It rained as we waited, and waited, and waited... they must have really enjoyed their dinner because it took a while for them to get there.  It was dark when taking their pictures, but I think they turned out pretty well.