The Simple Life

Mini Mouth

2012-01-29T22:01:00.000-08:00

Silas has discovered his vocal cords and likes to use them, taking a close second in sounds to his older brother Asher (nicknamed Mouth for his active verbal skills). Silas loves to 'talk' while looking you directly in the eye. Makes me wonder what he is thinking....

Dave celebrated a birthday recently. He got two cakes. The first on his actual birthday and since he had been out of the country for weeks prior to the day, he received a Halloween Funfetti cake on the actual day due to the lack of time and preparation on my part. He also got his much coveted German Chocolate cake, four days later, on the day he was supposed to return home.

Still waiting to hear on our departure to France. Getting anxious....

I'm Back

2012-01-22T22:01:00.000-08:00

Big Man Sawyer

Asher taking Liam for a ride

Liam in the snow

Macy and Asher ready with their snowballs

A new year. A new goal. A new adventure to blog. Add all reasons together and here I am again. This blog is for my history. For the kids to one day look back on and read, remembering our good times and bad times. Hopefully I can stay true to my hearts desire and keep it current! It's late already, so for tonight just some fun pictures from the past week of snow snow snow!!!!

(I'll only briefly mention the loss of power, doctor visits, zero working vehicles, or no school for a week all without a husband in the country!)

The Box

2010-06-27T22:01:00.000-07:00

I can remember when we would purchase something new and the kids would get a bigger kick out of the box than whatever it was in the box. Seems that is still the case, even with the kids being 11, 9 and 7! Liam's new car seat came with a nice large box. The kids spent the better part of the afternoon playing in, on and around the box. Since they are bigger, they did have to pull out the duct tape to make some major repairs but it remains intact, now relocated to the playroom for more time entertaining them tomorrow. Unfortunately, I didn't pull either of the camera's out for shots.

The kids have found a new hobby that they enjoy since being out for the summer. The Skate Park. We have two within 15 minutes. Everyday, it's a request. One morning, it was misting. The skate park was empty. The kids loved having it to themselves. I love the energy it expells from their small bodies, they love the thrills. Liam is a keen observer. He loves watching from the grass with me. Here are a few pictures from that wet day...

A new dishwasher

2010-06-09T14:03:00.000-07:00

"Hey Mom!

My tongue does as good a job as the dishwasher!"

Asher

Just by stating that, the boy (and his coworker) earned

a new job in our house!

Anyone wanna join us for dinner,

our dishes are REAL clean!

Our Cheap (but priceless) Entertainment

2010-05-09T22:49:00.000-07:00

Growing up, as a source of entertainment and laughs, my parents would do a ritual with each of their babies that consisted of several different hats/buckets/etc that were placed on the head and then photographed. All the while, the current baby would make disgruntled faces, blow raspberries, etc. They had eight children. Lots of entertainment. Thus far, our children, as babies, despised anything put on their heads. So much so that they would throw a tantrum if a hat even came close. Liam is different. He is our calm child. Our child that briefly may resist something he doesn't want and then give in. Thus, he takes a pacifier, even if he doesn't really want it. He wears a hat, even if it isn't wanted. Liam also readily shares a smile at faces, blank walls, etc. He is an easy going baby. So today, we got out some hats. Initially I thought that he would just endure a few and then be done. He kept smiling and we kept bringing them!

Here he is hatless (sporting some leftovers on his face too)

Peering through the strainer

Enjoying a scarf with this one!

Asher's 'Moose' Hat

His summer hat that was supposed to last longer!

His newborn hat that fit at birth!

This was a Macy style

Room to grow!

Beanie baby

His current fav

Big brother getting in on the attention

Thanks Liam for the good laughs and yummy baby that you are!

We'll take 5 more of you, please!

The Problem with Poles

2010-03-12T10:26:00.000-08:00

During our family dinner last night, Macy turned to me and wanted to know if I could see a bump on her forehead. I ran my fingers across it and told her that I felt a small bump and asked her what happened.

"Well, at recess today I was chasing Chloe in tag, Britta was behind me so I turned to see where she was and I ran into a pole. Mom! I was out for two minutes!"

From the other side of the table came Sawyer's voice,

"That's nothing Macy, I run into poles all the time."

Dave and I looked at each other, I am sure thinking the same thing about our two oldest who don't struggle with academics but apparently have a big problem with poles.

Here Liam is sporting his first shiner. He isn't even walking, sitting, or even rolling on a regular basis. It wasn't even me that accidentally ran him into a door way. No, I am a little embarrassed to admit that Sawyer gave him this marking. We were all laying on the bed, I was reading 'Lightning Thief' (one of Sawyer's favorites). Sawyer must have gotten quite engaged in the text because I saw him giving Liam what I thought were kisses on the forehead. Turns out he was sucking on the poor boys' head! This is what remains...

Bitter Sweet

2010-02-08T11:59:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy few months, however I have beat my goal and am updating my blog before that 6 month mark!

Sawyer is getting close to turning 11 and finishing up some requirements for his Arrow of Light in Cub Scouts. He spent some of the weekend working on Welcome posters for a nearby camp for sick children. It was fun watching him become engaged in a good cause and really doing his best for those children.

Our little Liam isn't so little anymore. He has been busy working on outdoing his older siblings in his weight and height for the 4 month mark. Sawyer holds the current record at 18lbs 11oz and 27". We will find out on the 19th of Feb. when Liam visits the doctor. While he grows he also enjoys smiling and talking to anyone who will give him attention- even if it's just the baby in the mirror. He is very ticklish and continues to love his baths. I couldn't ask for a better baby, except his length between feedings 24/7.
Macy came home from school the other day informing me that she wanted to have a Lemonade Stand and send the proceeds to Haiti. I purchased Lemonade, cups, and poster boards. She invited her friend, Britta over on Saturday. They spent lots of time on the posters and then several hours outside selling. Fortunately it was a beautiful day. They weren't getting the foot and drive-by traffic they wanted so they took to a delivery service; getting orders by going door to door and then delivering their sales. They also took advantage of the neighbor kids and siblings, hired them with free cups of Lemonade and sent them selling too! They shut down shop after the sun went down and came away with $82.96 to send to Haiti. Snuggling her later just before bed, Macy got that glimmer in her eye and told me how she discovered that drinking 8 cups of lemonade turned her pee clear. Only then did I remember how many trips she had made to the restroom during the afternoon!!

In the dark of night....

2009-11-18T13:11:00.000-08:00

Wow! I have neglected blogging for quite some time. Not much has been going on in our house, so no excuses right?

We relocated our family from sunny warm Texas back up to the Northwest rains and clouds (didn't we learn the 1st time?) in August. We stayed in temp housing until moving into our home in September. Fortunately, the weather was beautiful and the kids and I did a lot of swimming and touristy activities before starting school. It was fun catching up with old friends and hanging with the sis and cousins here.

September brought the move and start of school. The kids are now in 5th, 3rd, and 1st. They were thrilled to discover that they could talk during lunch and also get THREE whole recesses a day! The principle was the highlight though- apparently he is very funny and friendly. I hear lots about Mr. S. The cul-de-sac is filled with lots of children the same ages. With the nice weather, the kids played outside from the end of school until after dark. We had many a marshmallow roast and capture the flag games in the backyard. Asher had another successful season of soccer, he is quite the aggressive player.

Not only did the rains and cold weather come in October, but also the arrival of little Liam James on October 21st. Labor and delivery was quite uneventful (fortunately), and we were able to take him home the following day. The rest of the month was a blur to me. My mom was here doing all the cooking, cleaning, laundry, kid duty, etc. She was fabulous help. The older kids enjoyed Halloween dressed as they did last year, made it easy for me that they wanted to wear the same costumes... they weren't even bribed! They each ended the Halloween 'season' with over 7 pounds of candy after the Ward party, Microsoft's, and running through the Sundwall's neighborhood. It was a good end to the month...

November brought a friend from Texas and her daughter with it. We had fun doing some site-seeing, hanging out, shopping, and I slept while she ran circles around me with the day to day drudges. She was a great 'assistant' to me with helping little Liam, I miss my extra 2 arms! Here's to the second half of the month!

We feel so blessed to have a happy healthy baby boy. Liam has surprised his older siblings by not being a 'crying baby' as Macy puts it. He does however like the night hours to be wide awake. We have tried everything to switch his habits, no success so far. Any suggestions!? Both Dave and I feel very sleep deprived!

Hopefully it won't be another 6 months before another blog... if only for my own personal history...

Ultrasound Results....

2009-06-05T17:32:00.000-07:00

Can you tell who isn't too excited about the news?

Texas Size Storm

2009-05-12T09:10:00.001-07:00

Typically there isn't a lake in our front yard!

Just over a week ago, a storm swept through our town in Texas. It wasn't a tornado, but what they consider a 'straightline'. Meaning the wind is just as strong, but all moving in the same direction. It left as fast as it came and we were left with water in our office and front entry. Even the closed, locked windows on the front of the house seeped water through them.

(typically there isn't a river in our backyard either!)

The biggest loss, to the kids, was what we found in the backyard. The playset had been ripped from the ground, tearing through the 4x4 supports and tossed across the yard. Macy was the most saddened by the site, as she spends several hours a day on it. It didn't take long for her to proclaim that it was fine though, that now it was just a different playset, get her water clothes on, and summit the 'new' pile.

What remains of our playset now lays in a heap in our driveway, waiting to be disposed. The kids... are finding plenty of pleasure on their bikes. Now we just need to decide if and when we want to invest in another item that might be destroyed by a Texas storm.

We Love Mom

2009-05-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

I've decided to "hack" Anna's blog account to post a few thoughts from Mother's Day. Hopefully I won't embarrass her too badly.

I asked the kids yesterday to think of some of the reasons they love their Mom so much - the specific question was, "Why is Mom so special to you?"

Asher: "Because I know that she loves us ..." Dad: "Well, how do you know?" Asher: with a sheepish grin on his face ... "Because she gives us BIG, WARM snuggles every single night!"

Macy: "Because she's so much fun..." Dad: "What type of things are so fun about her?" Macy: "Well, Dad you know..." Dad: "Sure I do, but I want you to tell me yourself..." Macy: [getting impatient] "Daaaaaaaad" [Pause - her fingers are busy tracing lines up my arm] "Oh ok - it's because she takes time to play so many games with me and do arts and crafts and all that stuff..."

Sawyer: [long thoughtful pause] "Dad - it makes me feel good that she doesn't go to work so she can spend time with us here at home." I didn't see a need to follow-up on that one ...

I asked our fourth child, but all I heard were gurgles and gas bubbles.

So there it was - in the mouth of my babes - they love their Mom because they see and feel, unconsciously, the amount of time she spends with them. It's kind of like that cheesy commercial that every now and then pulls at your heartstrings or mists your eyes a bit ... "It's all about time."

I would never want to diminish any other mom out there, because I know there are many who are stellar lights for their families. But ... I just want to brag on Anna a little bit, because she's a remarkable mother [and wife, but that's for another post].

Here's a few reasons why I think she's such a fantastic Mom (not in any particular order):

She loves the Lord more than anything (or anyone) else - and because of that, she knows exactly what her priorities are - things like her role as a Mother, her commitment to her family, her willingness to serve others and care for them, etc.
For those that know her well, Anna is a talented designer and has a real knack for ... how shall I say ... planning and organizing empty space into functional environments. It reminds me of something I've heard somewhere - "see yonder is matter unorganized ..." Ok, anyway, she really could make some moolah if she chose to ... but she's chosen to set that aside for now and focus on being a Mom.
Anna's tough on our kids when they need it - she doesn't "cave" to their tantrums or emotional manipulation. She follows the counsel to "show ... an increase in love" after an episode of admonishment or discipline, hence love is able to prevail in our home.
Lastly - one of the things I love about Anna that will hopefully pass to our children - she's a realist with hope. Over time, she has developed this wonderful ability to let the past be the past and devote her extraordinary gifts and talents to the "holy present" - thus her ability to confidently exclaim to me or the kids, "it is what it is - get over it and make the best of it..." It is good, strong medicine for us. It reminds me of a talk given by one of my theological and personal heroes, Neil A. Maxwell. He commented as follows, "Thus, within our allotments we see how the saintly display kindness even within barbed-wire circumstances, yet others have barbed attitudes even within opulence. Meanwhile, the discontented continue to build their own pools of self-pity, some Olympic size." That comes from a great talk of his titled "Content with the Things Allotted unto Us" ... you can read it in its entirety here: [http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-4-28,00.html]

Well, that's enough pontificating for now. I'm so grateful for Anna and how committed she is to being a stellar Mom. She's incredible - and a true blessing to our little family. I love her dearly.

And no, for those of you who thought it, I'm not writing this because I "forgot" about Mother's Day. The kids and I had a lot of fun w/ her yesterday ... and you'll have to ask her about the peanut sauce.

New Tradition

2009-04-17T15:20:00.000-07:00

Now that the kids are old enough...too old they tell me for the traditional Easter Egg Hunt, we tried something different this year. A friend suggested that we do a 'flashlight Egg Hunt', making it more difficult to find the eggs for our 'advanced in age' children. So with more than 200 Easter Eggs, friends gathered, and a dark night, we moved forward with our plans. A storm loomed in the distance (for other Texans, you know that storms in Texas in April can mean chaos!) Fortunately, we didn't have to move our activity indoors, we made it inside just before the down pour, with all eggs and children in tow. The kids loved the added mystery and challenge of finding eggs outside around the house. Pros: we found several 'obvious' eggs the following morning. Cons- they were wet and muddy. Another negative- no cute pictures due to the lack of light! Will have to make this activity an annual event!

Not a chance for outdoor Easter pictures this year- too much moisture!

This is what happens when three bodies have consumed an unnatural amount of sugar and are expected to sit for more than a few seconds (no matter how old they are getting!)

In her White Dress

2009-04-08T10:34:00.001-07:00

There is nothing like witnessing a

daughter of Heavenly Father

being baptized by her daddy.

Especially when she is yours.

This is one 'spirited' girl.

An emotional rollercoaster.

A leader and dictator.

A confident child with

high-self esteem.

A sweet and loving angel.

I am glad that she made the

decision. I am glad that she

is clean. I am thankful for repentance.

I am proud to be her momma.

May you always stay as clean as the dress that you were baptized in...

Top Ten

2009-03-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

MY SWEET BOY

It's been ten years (and a few days) since I started the most wonderful and rewarding job ever, that of being a mother. Sawyer celebrated his tenth birthday March 1st. Here is my list of Top Ten for my now double digit child.

10- He willingly removes any unwelcome critter that comes into our house, promptly, to rapidly squelch the screams from the females living here.

9- He loves to be entertained and has from birth. Not the type of child to sit quietly in the back seat of a car. Never complains when life gets too crazy, he loves the action!

8- He is a very loyal friend. If you are Sawyer's friend, then he will do anything for you.

7- Enjoys all things boy. Wrestling, karate, hitting, hanging, hunting, fishing, ball; this boy is up for anything.

6- Loves books; big, little, short, long. He will read until the wee hours of the morning, if given the chance.

5- Is always up for a game. No matter what game it is (okay, Pretty Princess is out). He doesn't play for the win, but for the mere sport of it.

4- Has a better knowledge of the scriptures than most adults (including me).

3- Lives in a VERY black and white world. Knows and keeps the rules and gets frustrated when others don't or get away with things. He always wants to do what's right.

2- Always been sensitive to the spirit and to others feelings. Very thoughtful child.

1- World's best cuddler. He will come anytime, any day, no matter what he is doing, to give his mom warm snuggles.

So, that's my first child in a nutshell. He is truly a blessing in my life and a remarkable example to those around him.

We had his party at an indoor sports center, playing Dodgeball/DeathBall. He and his buddies got so sweaty they ended up all removing their shirts. A friend commented that they resembled 'Lord of the Flies'. Here is a picture of some of them at the end of the party.

Here are some pictures of my boy through the years (no early ones as he was around before digital and I haven't scanned them in!)

Age 2, playing in his 'car shop'.

As a Pirate, Halloween 2004, age 5.

With one of his favorite people, Grandma Gloria.

With Asher in 2005.

This is the game when Sawyer ran the bases, he made sure to run right through all the puddles. Age 3.

Age 5

I told Sawyer that he was done with birthdays. I want to keep him 10 forever....like that worked before when my plan was to keep him 5 forever. I guess that I can only ask and hope that the next year will not go as quickly as the last 10 have!!!! I love spending each and every day with my boy! Love you forever son!

From one proud momma

Backseat Ramblings

2009-02-12T20:23:00.001-08:00

Never a dull moment when these two clowns are pinned by a strap to a seat with all doors closed en route to anywhere. The following are completely random comments coming from the back seat on a car trip today:

Asher (looking out the window, his favorite thing to do while traveling): Oh, there is a fake mom and dad.... (then silence)

Mom: What do you mean Asher?

Asher: Oh, you know, those things that people put in chairs in front of their houses that look like mom's and dad's.

Mom (thinking): No Asher, I don't know.

Asher: I just saw a flying cow bird!!!

Macy: Did you know that polar bears can fly too? They don't need wings, they just go really fast on the ice and then flap their arms, but people don't think that they can fly because they don't have wings. Sneaky huh?

Passing a field of cows and sheep. Asher: What do you think those animals names are?

Mom: Don't know, what do you think Asher?

Asher: Oh (matter of factly), there's Cowy (obviously looking at a cow), and Bully (observing a bull with horns), oh no that's not Bully, Mom. That's Horny because of his horns. Yeah, Horny!

At this point, I waited for the reaction from the two older siblings in the car and then let out a deep breath when there were no apparent giggles. Public School hasn't reached them there...yet!

Making a turn on a dirt road, I accelerated a little and spun the back of the SUV around.

Asher: Mom, you just dragged.

I didn't get the response I was looking for. Say like, "Mom, that was awesome!"

Mom: Hey, wasn't that pretty cool guys?

All three monkeys, very matter of factly: Oh when Dad does it, he goes all the way around.

BUSTED!!! I'll be sure to have a talk with 'dad' when he gets home!

After arriving at our destination, we headed back the same exciting route.

For the majority of the time in the car, the oldest, Sawyer, is sitting in the front seat next to me, quiet. Obviously pondering a question he had, he finally asked it.

Sawyer to Asher: How do you know what all the animals names are?

Mom (thinking): Really? Did that question really come from my 4th grade straight 'A' student? Really?

He is a very logical, black and white boy, but did he REALLY not know?

Macy (after passing a donut shop): I really wish that you could have a birthday party at a donut shop and they let you eat all the donuts you wanted. That would be SO fun!

Asher: Hmmmm....wonder where the fake mom and dad went...

I was moving slow enough that I could track his line of vision to the front of a red brick house...with two empty rocking chairs on a patio, kids playing in the front yard.

Mom: Maybe they went to make dinner... for their fake kids!

Graffiti Artists....

2009-01-28T19:28:00.000-08:00

One might think after observing these pictures that the Crosby household is a prime residence for teaching young children the art of graffiti, in many of it's wonderful forms. They may very well be correct, but who can take away that creativity from a child? Especially when it is accompanied by lots of giggles, laughs and memories.

Day 1

These pictures were left for the Seminary students in Dave's class (which is now in our playroom)...notice the homework my children left them.

Day 2

These pics are of the kids adding art to Dave's wall in his office, just before they were covered solid.

The kids have since added art, each day, for the Seminary students. Maybe, just maybe, it will assist in keeping some eyes open.

My Superman...

2009-01-21T18:55:00.001-08:00

It was a little over 13 years ago that I met my 'superman'. He was given that name by my college classmates after an incident of him surviving a 50 foot fall from a sheer wall of rock. Literally walking away from the scene. And my 'superman' he remains after 13 short years.

This entry is for him. Yesterday we celebrated another one of his birthdays. Sawyer and I took him to lunch at one of his favorite Thai Restuarants and then he battled the boys in Mario Cart while the girls (I had some outside help :)) made his favorite German Chocolate cake. Steaks for dinner followed nicely by that previously mentioned cake, which turned out fabulous! That's how he wanted his birthday. That's what I love about him, easy to please. One of the many things to love about him.

Of the many things I love about my husband are the following:

-I love that I can always confide in him and know that my words are kept confident.
-I love that I can go to him for a hug whenever I need one (more needed as of late for some reason :))
-I love that he works so hard to provide for his family
-I love that he is so understanding of the female hormones and patient when needed
-I love that he strives to be a great role model as a father to his sons
-I love that he listens without judging
-I love that he motivates me to do better and be better
-I love that he slows me down every now and then to enjoy life
-I love how he honors his priesthood 24/7
-I love that he can admit when he is wrong and work on being better
-I love (begrudgingly at times) that he holds me responsible for my own mistakes and helps me learn from them.
-I love the back massages he gives
-I love his intelligence, he always teaches me new things
-I love the example that he sets for those around him
-I love his honesty

-I love that he has learned to pick up his clothing
-I love his soft hands
-I love that he loves adventure
-I love that he does dishes (no laundry though, darn!)
-I love that he loves me and our family

He isn't perfect. I wouldn't want him to be. But I am glad that he is mine and that we have lots of years of living yet to do, together. Happy Birthday my 'superman'....

DISCLAIMER: For those of you who see me drive around with a superman logo on the back of my vehicle just know that isn't for my Dave. That is in remembrance of another 'superman'. My little nephew who fought a brave battle with Leukemia and taught us lots through the process. Love you forever little Curran!

Eight Already...

2009-01-13T19:20:00.000-08:00

Has it really been eight years since my girl was born? Where has the time gone?

We celebrated Sis's birthday Saturday in true Sis style. She was talked out of a 'spa' party (maybe next year) as I bribed her with a trip to her new favorite place, the American Girl store and Bistro. We took her two close friends, Ali and Cassidy for a girl day. We shopped, had a delicious lunch, and went ice skating at the Galleria. The girls got along fabulously for 6 hours straight and cried when it was time to part. Grandma and Grandpa Crosby joined in the festivities in the evening with presents, cake and ice cream. Sis ended the day quite emotional (once again in true Sis style); her birthday wasn't long enough, how come it was such a short day, I'm not ready to go to bed... you get the idea.

A true piece of work, our only female offspring. I will whole-heartedly continue to stand behind the truth that she is my most difficult child but also my easiest, isn't that what hormones do? She is a shy, hilarious, creative, emotional, loud, sensitive, loyal, wonderful child of God. We love our precious little (8, really?) girl!

Pookie found something to crawl into...

Good Times during the Holidays

2009-01-06T08:01:00.000-08:00

It was hard sending all the little one's back to school yesterday. I missed them all day, but I did get some much needed cleaning taken care of. The kids insisted that this year be a year that we stay home for Christmas and New Years, as last year we were in Idaho and Washington. So they dubbed it the First Christmas in our home. We were blessed with time spent with family, friends, and fun activities. The highlight for our only female offspring: sleeping with her brothers every night (this is prohibited during the school year) and in a different room. They went 9 straight nights, settling their little bodies into various sleeping locations and positions. In front of the fireplace in the living room being chosen as the prime location. Acheiving sleep for three active little friends was quite difficult though and our nights became later and noone stirred in the am until after 9. My kind of life!!! Here is a random sampling of some of our happenings.... I was intent on using the camcorder more this year and so it is a very RANDOM sampling :0. But I was successful with the videos!!!

Christmas Morning

Asher and his sweet bed head!

Macy with her stocking

The boys with their Karate Belt racks from Grandma and Grandpa Houser- they love them!!!

Sleeping in front of the fire

Hanging out with their buddies, the Niccum Boys.

Santa Boys

Macy and her ultra soft 'pillow' bunny

The Little Man is Six

2008-12-07T19:44:00.000-08:00

Still can't understand how my baby can now be SIX YEARS old when it was just yesterday that I gave birth to him! My son, who came quickly in labor but took his time earning passage out of the hospital. My boy that ran his way through 'walking pnuemonia' several times over, rode his two-wheeler at three and loved by many 'grandma's'. The sun shines on this child that seems to have his way with luck. He went in for his 6 year well child check-up, mocking that he would get the doctor to allow him days off of school, coming out with that very thing and a huge grin to go with it. He choose his party place at 'Incredible Pizza' and earned a $50 gift card by spinning their 'birthday wheel'. This little boy never fails to give his momma the BEST hugs by wrapping both arms around my neck and holding on forever. I am so glad that he is my child, even if he is now SIX!!!

This is what happens when mom is sick in bed and the cake is left to two boys (one age 6, the other 30 something...)

Spinning the prize wheel

At his party with his buddies

His cake after dragging Jack Sparrow through it over and over again while entertaining his guests

The look I love...one of pure joy mixed with plenty of mischief.

Maybe it will take longer this year to his seventh birthday...

Missing her Cousins...already

2008-12-01T20:27:00.001-08:00

You would never guess that just 15 minutes after this picture was taken, MQ spent all her energy wailing in the car as we pulled away from some of her favorite people.

We all had a wonderful week/weekend with my family in SLC. Lots of bodies, noise, and memories...

Turkey Dinner

2008-11-19T19:16:00.000-08:00

The following is a letter that SH had to write in his 4th grade class.

Dear Meany Farmer Billy Joe,

Why are you going to eat me for Thanksgiving? You said that I was your favorite turkey. It thought it was a joke at first, but when I heard you say it yourself I knew it was real. Before you kill me, please listen to my ideas and tell me if you are still going to eat me.

First of all, I'm going to tell you. I am sick with malaria. If you eat me you will get infected too, and if you get it, you will lose all of your beautiful, sparkling, brown hair. If you get infected you might die. I think I have turkey pox, which are purple spots that ooze a yucky liquid, and I am mostly juices and barely any meat.

Secondly, my wife is way plumper than me. Please eat her instead. She is way plumper with way more meat. Also, she is so slow, you could kill her with a pocket knife, or just put poison in her food because her nose doesn't work. She'll eat anything.

Last of all, the best reason is I have two short legs. I know how much you guys like turkey legs, and both of my legs together could only feed one of your children. Would it be good for you to get me when my legs are way too small to eat?

Don't you think those are good reasons? Anyway, why do you want me when I have the disease of malaria and my legs are too short? Right now I am laying in my nest wheezing and getting weaker each second. Please if you choose not to eat me for Thanksgiving, get me some medicine.

Your ex Thanksgiving Dinner,
Turkey Bob

Apparently they had to be turkeys and give reasons why they shouldn't be the next meal on the dinner plate. Anyone want my son for Thanksgiving? I thought it quite convincing...

Whistle gets vetoed...

2008-11-09T19:15:00.000-08:00

Obviously, I wasn't meant to pass on to you the more pertinent information of us acquiring the cat as it went to extremely tiny text on the blog. I did want to inform you of the primary reason for getting another pet. MICE. We have rampant breeding of mice going on in our garage. Dave has successfully 'speared' several and caught others in traps. So 'Whistle' was brought in as our reinforcement. Dave, however, has boycotted the new furry pets name. Fervently behind his regard to having a male cat have a male name, especially one that is needed for hunting, thus requiring a change. At dinner tonight we voted on a new name... would it be Cat-a-licous (Macy's language all things end in -a-licous), Killer, Hunter, Vinnie... So introducing...

VADER

The mighty mouse slayer

(but he will return to Whistle if proof of his hunting and killing skills don't improve.)

Another Crosby Addition

2008-11-09T13:29:00.001-08:00

This one to replace our dear Scamper who went missing after jumping from the top of my vehicle at high speed. Meet...

Whistle

We acquired Whistle from the Cat Lady at the Animal Allies of Texas. The Cat Lady was very excited to see someone with lots of young children take Whistle, as to her, he is very playful. (I'll have to share a story of the Cat Lady's sticky, furry fingers at a later time. Quite entertaining. ) Back to Whistle. We waited a few months to replace Scamper with hopes of her return still lingering. Last week however, we became direly in need of another feline as our garage has been taken hostage by LOTS of furry little rodents- MICE! Lets hope that Whistle can fill at least some of the void Scamper left behind...and rid our garage of the mice too!

Not so distant past...

2008-11-02T19:04:00.000-08:00

I was introduced to this 'must' on the day of a Homecoming in Texas.

"Isn't she too young?" Dave asked as he pulled out of the driveway with his 2nd grade daughter, en route to school. Guess not, so I have been told. Everything seems bigger in Texas, including these 'mums' they wear. This is nothing compared to those in High School, I am told. Until MQ is old enough, I can wait...

We did happen upon something that isn't bigger in Texas...

Yes, it speaks big, "The Monster Maze!" It was, however VERY deceiving! It took us much longer to drive to this "Monster Maze" than it did to conquer it. Fortunately, we were of but a few visitors on this particular day. I just hope that they didn't hear our children complain, "That's it! A baby could have done that!" After we emerged a whole five minutes after entering the "Monster Maze". For most of it, Dave was taller than most of the corn stalks. We did encounter some interesting things along our way...

Sensing our disappointment in the maze, Farmer Joe, in true southern hospitality, hopped right over and offered us a complimentary hay ride which was immediately followed by pig races. He was quite entertaining. Dave and I decided that our money was well spent. Not because of the maze but because of Joe's desires to make our trip worth it. Maybe we will return next year when Hurricane Ike won't have wiped out most of the corn.

Cavers

2008-10-19T20:20:00.001-07:00

When we arrived in Texas two years ago I had three children scared to death of any moving thing smaller than a kitten. Forward to the present day. MQ spent several hours outdoors this afternoon playing with her new pet, Cavers. Cavers is a cricket. He earned the name after successfully escaping a caved in sand tunnel, alive. The kids were very proud of the critter and thus he earned 'pet' status.

Cavers was also given a special ride in a car. MQ thought that it was so funny that he didn't want to sit in his seat but rather ride on the door. And what a ride he got!!

I love cheap entertainment! On a more serious note, and mostly to my fellow Texans, how on earth do you keep these nasty creatures outdoors? Fortunately, I no longer scream when I see one, (kay, so I did scream when one was on my arm the other day, in front of MQ's second grade class during a picnic outside. The kids thought it was hilarious that I freaked out!), but I still REALLY don't like them in my home, and they love inviting themselves inside. Any ideas?

Another Note: My hubby returns tomorrow! We have missed him but filled the time with football and soccer games, karate, parties, Footloose, and life. It will be SO good to have him home again...for a week.

I love that my nine year old boy still enjoys playing in the sand with his siblings, even if he just finished feeding crickets to our turtles.

First year, MQ isn't a cat for Halloween. Now she is a witch with a black cat resting on her shoulder!

Mixed Emotions

2008-10-14T19:18:00.000-07:00

This is my baby...minus two teeth. They came out one right after another. The mixed emotions come from his mommy being sad about the end of an era while watching her youngest thrilled at the prospect of his first visit from the tooth fairy.

Target Practice

2008-10-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

Living in Texas brings with it space. Space for hunting, fishing, camping, running...which can be a boys paradise. Last week, SH went with some friends and shot a rifle for the first time (under adult supervision). We hear about it incesantly.

Yesterday, Dave guided AP as he shot the BBGun for the first time. Pookie was in heaven.

Today- Cub Scout fishing tournament. SH was intent on getting the biggest, fattest fish. His competitive spirit shining brightly. Somehow his desire only lastest for about 10 minutes, the same time the turtles in the lake started poking their heads out of the water. A fresh target for SH. Loosing interest in them only when the ducks paddled close enough to aim for. As this is going on, I notice boys fishing nearby pack up and move to another spot, only to be replaced by an innocent new group of boys.

Another little while and SH is joined by his equally loud and energetic buddy, Ian. With him, comes live bait, worms. The boys proceed to test the stretching power of the harmless animals, not understanding that to attract the fish, quiet voices are needed. Meanwhile, our second set of neighbors abandon their spot.

Some action finally! SH's line gets pulled. It's a big one! He hands it to me for help. We pull and tug, attracting back those who left. Interested in our catch. Disappointment rears though when out of the water comes a dirty plastic grocery bag pulling water. Embarrashed that I wanted a picture with his catch SH drops it on the ground nearby. I was proud though, we were at least doing our part in helping to keep the environment clean, SH wasn't impressed with my rationalization. "No awards for that, mom".

One last catch before giving in for the day- the tree branch overhead.It now displays a nice red and white bobbin and 1/4 of an abused worm which I am sure is happy to be out of reach of two 9 year olds!!!

Numbers

2008-09-30T19:46:00.000-07:00

As simple as I would like my life to be...sometimes...simple is just not in the equation. Maybe due to the blur of activity, lack of sleep, stress, etc. I find numbers running through my head. I am, as most are aware, a concrete, black and white person. Numbers fit that bill. They are very solid and reliable for a person like me. So, my blog tonight consists of some of these numbers that are floating around up there... and hopefully it will explain a little of our lives the last while.

53
The speed at which I was driving when our cat, Scamper, hurled herself from the top of the SUV.

13,564
Pictures I accidently uploaded on my ipod before heading to Idaho.

8
Flights Dave and I have taken over the past 2 weeks.

4
Unexpected days spent in the hospital with my mom.

3
Goals Pookie scored in each of his first two soccer games.

1
Karate graduation for Bubba who leveled up to a Green Belt.

2
Lessons Sis successfully completed in Piano. She really enjoys it.

12
Work days Dave has under his belt, back at Microsoft.

103
Kisses for Pookie before he would let me leave his side tonight.

5
Family members who made it to Dallas to visit- if only for a short while!

43
Kids who made me one proud Primary President on Sunday. The Sacrament Program was wonderful!

3
Women who I am priveledged to work with in the Presidency, You are amazing!

1
Tough Cookie for a Mom! You are the best example!

1
Husband who patiently deals with his busy, stressed, emotional wife. My hero!

Countless
Times I need to be reminded of all that I have to be grateful for.

258
bubbles I counted on Dave's screen saver the other night before I realized it was way past my bedtime...just like now...

2
Number of Nighttime Alkaseltzers I took to help ease the pressure in my head from my head cold....

I am fading...the numbers are floating away...good nighhhhhttttttttt

Bubba in karate

Lots of room for growth in that uniform!

Loved having the Pace's share a hot Dallas afternoon with us.

Why I Love America and Texas

2008-09-11T20:54:00.000-07:00

My second grader came home from school with a paper. It read...

Today we remembered 911 in a safe and honorable way. I reminded them that we are free because of our brave men and women going to battle and our brave President leading the way. I told them we are Safe, Strong, and Steady. Parents: Please discuss with your child the importance of freedom. Please talk about the day of 9-11 and where and what you were doing and thinking. Student: Please write down 3 "Special Feeling Words" about our country. Please also draw 1 symbol representing the USA.

As I sat reading this, I got teary eyed. I love that in Texas, it isn't bad to be patriotic. I love that in Texas, my children are taught about 9/11- it isn't forgotten. I love that in Texas, we still pray at rodeos :). I love that in Texas, the school children start each day with a moment of silence (where they are allowed to pray if they chose). And I love that in Texas, there are restrictions to the size of belt buckles allowed at school!

Don't get me wrong, there is plenty of akwardness that comes with living in Texas, or should I narrow that down to Forney. How about the neighbor that mows her grass in the dead of night (sure she has a headlight, but really lady, you just mowed two days ago...and grass doesn't grow that fast here!)? Or the sweet old man in the doctors office waiting room, reading the magazine upside down. He was really into the article and was distraught when the nurse called him back. Or how about our own little statue of liberty...yes, Pookie thinks it's the real deal. But you can't deny the Patriotic nature of those around town.

Since moving here two years ago, I have been impressed at the support our military men and women get from the Texan people. So, on this 7 year anniversary, I hope that we all stop to remember and pray for those still fighting for our freedom. I hope that we never forget and pass on our patriotism to our children.

In Answer to your Questions...

2008-08-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

Somehow I failed to mention another summer mishap in the Crosby home- Sis's leg, or more specifically her foot. She had a run in with the trapeze bar on the swing set while she was playing outside alone. I found her in fetal position, screaming. The swelling was immediately ugly; which led to an Urgent Care visit and then two visits with the Foot Specialist. Now all that remains is this monstrous beast of a cast. This is Sis after the boys helped her feel better. And she did...Webkinz rule her world.

She was back up and running after a day. She soon accomplished walking a hole through the first cast within two days. The doctor was impressed at the damage to the cast. Onto the second cast (with much more material added to the underside). Sis had been a great sport about it all. She even held up pretty well during the two Swim/BB'Que parties that she had to observe...until...we went to the Zoo and she couldn't play in the exciting water river, hence the meltdown.

We made up for it with a play date with her friend, in which we did makeovers, finger nails and made cookies. Life got better...Zoo incident forgotten.

Donating Additional Animals to the Zoo

2008-08-26T18:28:00.000-07:00

Even after three hours in 90+ degree weather, walking long distances, and enjoying a hefty lunch, these three boys still had plenty of energy to act like wild hooligans! So....

They put them in a cage: to observe and let the other 10 people who visited the zoo entertain. Unfortunately...

These animals were smarter than the zookeepers and eventually escaped...using more of their unnatural super energy to spur them into the waiting vehicle...so they could pick at each other and me for the duration of the ride home.

Time for bed yet?

Summer Pleasures

2008-08-15T21:05:00.001-07:00

Some of our comings and goings....

Daddy on the wakeboard at Lake McGee in Oklahoma

Pookie tubing with friend

Sis flying on the wakeboard

Our temporary 'home' in OK

Bubba, looking a little wild, after swimming for hours with a sweet Seattle friend! We loved the visit guys!

Sis with her wonderful Seattle friend and of course some added Webkins!

12 more days until school starts. Should I be getting excited to have all three of my children in school now? It makes me sad. Maybe it's because my baby is now old enough and capable to be away from me for extended periods of time, or that summer was just too short. Guess I'll just have to love on them lots the next 12 days and then find ways to be in school with them!!!

Bad Mom Moment

2008-08-15T20:40:00.000-07:00

So I know that I am not the perfect mom. Not even close. But today, a teenager put me in my place.

The location: Famous Footwear.
It was the annual trip for the first day of school new shoes. Both boys were still lacking. Before leaving, I had insisted they wear socks and dig out the tennis shoes that have been absent for months due to the Texas heat. Pookie, being the third child, or just lazy; sat, staring at his socks and shoes until his sweet momma gave in and assisted. I did notice the extra effort it took to get the shoes on, 'just bulky socks or curled up toes' I justified. No complaints from the little man, we were on our way.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by a young cheery sales clerk, who quickly had Bubba measured (size 5) and on his way searching for that perfect shoe.

Pookie was a different story. She placed his little foot on the measuring tool and asked him, "What size are you?" He knew the answer since we had just finished discussing this exact thing on the car ride over and proudly answered "size 11!". She is starting to look somewhat concerned at this point. Picking up his old displaced shoe and peering inside she turns her attention to me. "Is there a problem?" I ask. "Only that your son should be wearing a size 1 and you have him in 11's." That's 3 full sizes too small. Oops.

Some people wonder why we stopped at three children...

Fortunately, Pookie left the shoe store with the biggest grin and a completely satisfied look, cramped toes and ankle blisters forgotten. His mom had just let him purchase his dream shoes- Sketcher Airators. I left the store feeling somewhat smug knowing that during the summer months toes can at least hang over flip flops acceptably! Right?

Winner by Default

2008-08-05T23:33:00.000-07:00

We pulled the family together Sunday night for a game of Monopoly. Pookie, not the game player, decided to 'help' be the banker. Sis was excited. The version of Monopoly we have is the 'Millineum' series. It comes with various game pieces that had our animal loving girl jazzed. She quickly swipped up the dog. Being raised with wonderful toys such as Build A Bear and Webkins, this dog had to have it's posse. So, the duration of the game was spent moving Sis's dog around the board with it's accompaning 'extras'. He had his cell phone, flat screen, globe, and bicycle (all other pieces). "That way he won't be bored, especially while he is in jail."

Other than insisting that the dog stay with his 'toys', Sis had no interest in the game. When she rolled the right amount for the 'free parking', which was loaded with cash, she was gone chasing the cat before she even knew any money was coming her way, When she pulled a Community Chest card that said, "Bank error in your favor $200" she was geting a drink. When her hotel laden property bankrupt her mom, she was entertaining Pookie with loud burps. The girl didn't sit in her seat up until it was just her and her dad left. Pressure on. That lasted one minute until her monopolies sucked all the money from the game into her 'pot', making her the winner. But wait, where is sis? Oh, she doesn't even know she won, she is outside getting on her bike...

maybe this is why she couldn't sit still

Too Much of a Good Thing

2008-07-30T06:37:00.000-07:00

Remember the computer game "Oregon Trail"? A new edition was recently purchased and loaded on our computer. The repurcussions? A recent conversation in the Crosby car sounded something like this.

Bubba: "Mom, my tummy is really hurting."

Mom: (thinking that this is just a ploy after this same child just discovered his buddy wouldn't be at swimming lessons, which we were on route to.)
"hmmm...sounds like it may be diaharea" which is something that you just don't say to this nine year old. However, it did get a great scrunched face reaction from him!

Sis: (nonchalantly) "Then it must be Scurvy."
Remember that scrunched face coming from an embarrashed nine year old, well it scrunched even more.

The kids have indeed learned lots from the game. Knowledge of 100 year old cures to 100 year old diseases. And if ever the need, we may be able to make a trecerous trek, to just about anywhere, and have a 50 percent chance of making it!

Nothing Simple About It!

2008-07-29T05:38:00.000-07:00

I have been motivated, yet again, to start and successfully compile a blog (successful as the key word). This being the third, okay so fourth, go round. A complete stranger was the trigger this time. A 'blogger' that I like to visit frequently. One who makes it all look so 'simple'. and yet. whenever I attempt. it becomes all too 'not so simple'.

Me, being a simpleton, living in a black and white world, easily becomes disenchanted with the whole 'blogging' world. So bear with me as I roll up my pant legs (shorts here in Texas), push up my sleeves and engage in this 'simple' new endeavor. Because I am a simple person, simply don't expect much. Just a little chatter and hopefully some smiles from our simple life...