Kids and their comments

Just decided to share two "kid comments" that I loved today.

Micah, while painting his new Derby car: "Mom, can you find a picture of the car I made for Pinewood Derby last year?  I need some inspiration from something."  Yeah, he has my genes:)

Dakota, when I told them in the van that I had once wanted to have 20 children:  "And then you had one, and that was the end of that idea!"
My reply:  "Yes, Dakota.  That was exactly what happened!"  (note to any who do not know:  Dakota is my oldest child).

More light

I'm tired, in a very physical way.  Three months of longer hours at the library than I think any Page has ever actually survived, has left me a little off balance.  I'm sort of in a twilight zone at this point, which no one probably notices, because I do tend to be what has been called "unconventional." I am smiling to myself.  I like the idea of being "unconventional."  Why be like everyone else?

Okay, I'm also rambling.  The point of this is to say that when I fell into my chair at 6:05 p.m. in the break room at the library, I noticed light . . .yes, light coming through the big window.  It's usually dark by then.  The combination of the snow and the longer days (I may be hoping here) made it light and beautiful outside.  I was so excited to see that.  Here's to warmer, and lighter days ahead!

Monster Truck Jam

For Christmas, we gave Carson and Micah tickets to see the Monster Truck Jam at Energy Solutions Arena.  Today was the day.  Yeeoooow!  It was a crazy kind of fun.  You just can't get a feel for the decibels involved, when you see them on TV.  Our seats were very close to the action.  The trucks were impressive, and thank heavens for ear protection.  I'm sure I am wearing a layer of dirt to bed tonight:)

The driver of "Maverick" is from West Vally City, Utah.  He is a veteran in the sport.

This little jet pack car heated up the arena in a hurry.  You could feel it like an open oven.

Grave Digger.  "Bbbbbad . . . bad to the bone"

We saw two crashes.

Carson snapped this shot of "Grave Digger" in the second before he came crashing down. Check out the wheel.

So glad the driver walked away from this one.  He was one of our favorites. 

Cousins from far away

Wednesday was our 18th Wedding anniversary.  I can't believe the years have flown by. 

We also had a visit from our cousins:  Chrissy, Sara, Jensen, and little Duke.  It was so much fun to have them here.  We ate pizza and played.  We were able to keep Jensen at our house the rest of the evening.  So much fun for my boys.  They loved spending time with their little cousin.  Here are some pics.

The friends in my life

I've given gifts to my husband and children.  I've got Valentines and treats ready for work tomorrow.  Now I need to dedicate some time to say a huge Happy Valentine's Day to the women friends in my life.  I am blessed more than I can express with great friends.  I'm not as ambitious as Melody, to list them all alphabetically.  I do, however, want to thank the five women who are for various reasons, closest to me.  I won't haunt anyone with childhood pics here:) 

My mother once told me that in her worst moments, it was almost always her women friends who came to her aid.  I was able to see that played out when she was so ill.  They came to help her (and me).  One of her friends still sends me birthday cards every year, and has since I was born.

Here we go:

Katie:  You are my oldest (and I don't mean age) friend.  We met when we were four years old, and are as close today as we were back then.  You always make me laugh, and have no judgment of others.  Few people are as accepting and kind as you are.  Knowing that I can come to you with anything, sustains me and gives stability to my life.  I once joked that I could shave my head and run off and live with the natives, and you would come to visit me.  Yes, you would.  You share the childhood memories of my parents, that I have no one else to share with.  I adore you, and am so thankful that you came back from Iran and into my life all those years ago. 

Minna:  My Sister from Finland.  Though the miles have kept us apart for many years, you remain in my heart just as you did when you lived in our home.  Two girls from different countries.  I learned to respect you, your culture, and beliefs.  More than that, I found a sister for life.  No one talks, laughs, and smiles like you do.  You hugged me in the night when my grandma passed away, held my hand when life was difficult.  You have given me a relationship that I cherish.  I love you always.

Tracie:  I met you seven years ago, when we moved into our house.  Immediately, it was like we had known each other forever.  We always have so much fun together.  Your support and friendship means a great deal to me.  I admire the many kindnesses you do for others.  You have a "sparkle" about you that draws others in.  I know that I can talk to you, and we can laugh or cry together.  I also have come to think of you as family.  You are a beautiful person, and I am thankful that you are in my life.

Rynell:  I love this picture of you and Audrey.  I always admired you so much in Poetry group.  You were someone for me to look up to, and aspire to be so talented.  I didn't know then that you would become so much more.  You have become a great support in my life.  Without you, during a very difficult time, I am not sure that my chapbook would have become a reality.  Whenever I fall back, it seems that you are there to break my fall.  You check on me, take me for rides, and just talk when I need to.  You have become very dear to me, and I am grateful for your friendship.

Melody:  I already know what you are saying, "That picture??"  Sorry, but I love this one.  Your son captured your essence, two of the things I have come to love about you.  You are the hip hot woman in those Italian boots.  I've always admired you for your togetherness and accomplishments.  You are, however, also the nurturing woman with the flirty apron.  Like Rynell, you are a fabulous writer, who has become a close friend.  I will never forget the warm Christmas lights still on your house when I came to talk to you a few days ago.  You have a great way to decorate a space, but you are warmer inside than all those lights.  I am so thankful for your kindness, and the way you make me feel understood.


Happy Valentine's Day to all of you!  You are truly extraordinary women, and I am blessed to know you.  And thanks to all the many beloved friends I did not mention here.  I am blessed to have you all in my life.

Carson's Birthday

On Feb. 11th of 2011, Carson turned 11 years old:)   On the day of his birthday, we had a little family celebration, including pizza from Papa John's. 

Then Saturday, it was time to get ready for the friend party.  The theme was originally (you guessed it) Michael Jackson, but we expanded it to be a Pop Music party, to include those who are not as huge of fans.  An awesome picture cake, some balloons, sparkles, music, a fedora for Carson, and we were ready to go!

Carson had a great time with his friends.  It was a very happy day for him.  They played a game to see how many balloons they could "pop," ate yummy food, opened presents, and even danced a little. 

As for me, I couldn't help but think, as I do everyday, how grateful I am for Carson and his good health.  It was 11 years ago that he was Life Flighted to Primary and had surgery.  Those memories remain in my heart with some pain, but mostly with love for God and his miracles, and the many kindnesses that are so vivid still in my mind.

Carson is a bright and loving person.  He is always making things are running them to our neighbors.  Whatever he chooses to do, he does it well.  And there is nothing like his contagious laugh.

  Happy Birthday, Carson!  I love you much!