We Just Can't Get Enough!

Drew's Weekend Adventure

2012-01-29T14:03:00.000-08:00

Friday afternoon I started hearing whispers of a plot among the neighborhood kids--a plan to sneak out and take a late night sledding adventure. Knowing how solidly my kids sleep I wasn't too concerned that they would be able shake themselves out of a slumber to go, nor did I think the other members of the 6-12 year old crowd would be able to make it past their parents watchful eyes. Drew and Isaac took a couple 8pm runs in the dark so I figured they had it out of their systems.

Imagine my surprise when at 10:00 I heard a knock, a knock, a knock upon the door. I went to get the door, and guess who was there: Sarah! (Dressed like a Sundance Starlet I might add.)

We thought if Mark and Danielle were such cool parents then we could be too, and Drew and Sarah spent the waning hours of the evening sliding down the icy slopes of the retention pond out back. Drew came home gloating that he was among the only of the neighborhood kids to follow through with their crazy plan. Dave got a taste of what it is like waiting for his boy to come home late at night.

Even though he was out late Drew got up early with Isaac to make the family breakfast. They served oatmeal and hot chocolate, made all by themselves. Drew said it was "to say sorry for being so hard to get up in the morning this week" (he's right, he's been a bear in the mornings) and "to say thank you for all that we do." Aaah! What good kids we have!

Another Wednesday Night Baller

2012-01-18T17:52:00.001-08:00

We frequently comment on how Drew is following in the footsteps of his old man: his penchant for numbers over language, his bear-like morning demeanor, and even a barely concealed love of the spotlight. For this chip-off-the-old-block Wednesday night basketball was inevitable, and Junior Jazz gave him the opportunity. And guess who is his coach...Dad!

(the cell camera doesn't take great sports shots. )

I'm #1

2012-01-16T11:13:00.001-08:00

Drew and Isaac made me this #1 mom sign out of dominoes. I am relieved hey have forgiven me for all my yelling this morning while trying to get the basement clean. It is amazing how despite all the hair-pulling frustration that goes into being a mom some days they can make it all worth it in an instant.

A Post for My Sis with Baby on the Brain

2011-12-07T19:18:00.000-08:00

Here it is! Still an it. Only one. Coming May-June-ish

(But no more commentary because I'm still reeling from the teaspoon of green onions on my baked potato last night!)

If my heartburn is any indication this baby will have a uni-brow!

What Did I Give?

2011-11-14T09:47:00.000-08:00

Last night's dinner conversation:

Isaac: What happened to John the Baptist?

Drew: He was murdered.

Isaac: What does it mean to be murdered?

Dad (me): It means to kill someone on purpose.

Heather (knowing that Isaac really wants all the juicy details): There was a King named Herod who wanted to kill John the Baptist, but didn't dare because he was popular among the people.

Isaac: So what did he do?

Heather: Well, Herodias, Herod's wife, really wanted him dead. So she told her daughter to dance for Herod, and that she would like her dancing and would give her anything she wanted. So she did, and when Herod asked what she wanted she said she wanted John's head on a plate.

Isaac: So she danced and he gave her John's head?

Dad (me, feeling sassy): Yeah, that's what mom did to. I liked the way she danced so I gave her stuff.

Isaac: What did you give mom?

Dad: Lots of stuff, a house, cars, kids...

Isaac (emphatically): YOU DIDN'T GIVE MOM KIDS, GOD DID!!

The funniest thing is that Heather was thinking the same thing, but Isaac beat her to the punch!

Isaac's Blog

2011-11-06T18:46:00.000-08:00

I got a scorrpion

This is when the cat woke up.

This is the cat scratched the ground.

this is when I got my cat it was fun.

this is when I finished t-ball.

Me and My Dad on Angel's Landing

2011-10-31T09:40:00.000-07:00

By Drew

This is me and my dad on the top of Angel's Landing. It wasn't too bad going up, but going down was a trick or two. It was fun. The part that was very odd was that I saw a two six year olds. Well, six or seven, maybe five. I saw one five year old, but I don't think they went to the top. The most scariest part was the skinny parts on the trail. The reason it is scary is because it is five hundred meters high. So that's more than a thousand feet. Angel's landing wasn't as scary as I thought. I thought it would be straight up holding onto chains, but it is nothing like that. This picture is me and my dad on the top of Angel's Landing. I went with my dad and my neighbor.

This is me on the trail to Angel's Landing. That's the top next to me.

This is me about to slide off the edge.

A Decade

2011-10-30T09:23:00.000-07:00

How we spent our ten year anniversary:

(No, that's not us, obviously.)

Celebrating with Adam and Lexi who are starting at 0. They are off to a good start.

Our experience has shown that marriages beginning on October 18th are especially lucky.

They include lots of laughter.
They get stronger during sad times.
And include innumerable blessings.
They also produce amazing, beautiful, brilliant, talented children.

I love you Dave.

Thank you for ten years

Leaf-ing September

2011-10-05T15:24:00.000-07:00

Every September I start to panic, knowing that winter is right around the corner, and I haven't spent enough time in the mountains. So I force my family to pack it in with me (to the extent possible with new schedules and obligations). I always seem to forget to anticipate the brilliant transition between summer sun and winter blah, but in my attempt to hold onto summer indefinitely I re-discover the magic of fall. In photographs spanning the first weekend of September to the last I realize that nothing is lost with summer dying away, but so much is gained.

Big Springs Park, Provo Canyon, Labor Day Weekend
Taking advantage of a half-day Friday, finding caterpillars, wading streams, and discovering that Drew's legs are looking less little boy.

Silver Lake, Big Cottonwood Canyon, first day of fall, moms outnumbered two to one
Encountering the first crimson airs of fall, climbing boulders, spotting waterfowl, and answering "No, all these blonde kids are NOT brothers and sisters.

Willow Springs, Big Cottonwood Canyon, Mom-Aunt Laura-Me.
Yellowing aspen backdrops, spotting elk at the waterhole, observing Zac at work at Solitude.

Big Springs Park again, this time with Nana and Bubba.
Making the most of an 87 degree Sunday, noticing the changes since last time we were there, deciding that Isaac is brother to the maples.

Red Pine Trail, Little Cottonwood Canyon, last day of September, Nana Down leads the way.
Remarking that no where is the sky as blue as here, discovering a new standard for gold, multiplying band-aids loaves-and-fishes style in order to make it to the lookout.

Cowboy up

2011-09-30T16:39:00.001-07:00

My dad's new job at a retirement center is not only to drive the residents to where they need to be; like the doctor, Walmart, Wendover, but also to provide a new quality of life they would find nowhere else.

Here is performed for a lady who only wanted someone to sing the Tennessee waltz for her birthday.

I'm proud of my dad for making dreams come true!

Mommy and Eli

2011-09-28T18:06:00.000-07:00

Eli gets the rare opportunity of being my other half weekdays from eight to three when the other boys are doing their thing in the first and third grades. Little brothers came in too quick succession for Drew and Isaac to have the same privilege. La-La is an amiable companion and keeps me chuckling (and sometimes rolling my eyes) with his brand of humor, for example:

At Story Time we made a bus and put each member of our family in a window seat, including Gilbert the cat. Eli thinks it hilarious that a cat is in a bus.

"A cat in the bus? Is that funny Mom? Ha ha ha ha!"

Every day the scenario has evolved into something more side-splitting to this three-and-a-half year old.

"How about a cat in a bus playing the guitar in a band. Is that funny mom? Ha ha ha ha ha!"

"A cat is on the bus, playing the guitar in a band, singing Eli's Coming Haka Haka. Is that funny? Ha ha ha ha ha!"

"A cat is on a bus, playing the guitar in a band, singing Eli's Coming Haka Haka, and wearing a jacket, and playing the piano, and his butt! Ha ha ha ha!"

Which brings me to how much Eli loves potty humor, more so than his older brothers whose mouths are relatively clean by comparison. Eli thinks the UPS truck is a riot! I am impressed with his understanding of the double entendre, though less impressed with the subject matter.

Together Eli and I love being in the mountains and he is always up for a nature walk when we can squeeze it in between chores and carpool. He only gets upset when I won't let him use my camera by himself, but even with the strap around my neck he can frame a nice shot.

We spend a good portion of our week running errands. Each trip starts with Eli having to start the car, then ask if he can sit in the very back seat without his seatbelt (the answer is always no). Then we go to "Mom's store" (Days Market--I shop there because they walk my cart out to my car for me), not "Dad's store" (Smith's--where the ice cream is cheapest), or occasionally, as of late "Sam's store" (the Walmart, that I thought was called so after his friend Sam, but on second thought Eli might be referring to Mr. Walton).

With no brotherly playmates Eli spends more time than the rest being babysat by Mac or the Angry Birds.

Eli has taken to calling me "Little Fella" lately. "Can I play Angry Birds on your phone, Little Fella?" "What's for dinner Little Fella?" I can't decide if I'm charmed or annoyed by that name. I mean, he's going to be looking down on me soon enough, does he have to start rubbing it in so early?

I like to think that even though I didn't get this experience with my other two we have had, and will continue to have different opportunities that are just as special. Meanwhile, I sure enjoy bonding with Eli as an only child for a few hours a day.

The Piglet Plunge

2011-09-18T18:32:00.000-07:00

Soldier Hollow, where Drew's and Isaac's school is, is also the site of a race called the Dirty Dash, a 10k run through mud, swamp, and water slide. Last year the race turned the recess grounds into an irresistibly muddy expanse for kindergartners and second graders alike. One day after school, when the adults were distracted, Isaac and Drew found themselves marooned waist deep in the middle of a giant mud pit. They were at last able to extricate themselves, but not their brand new pairs of school shoes. As mad as I was about the shoes, I couldn't blame them wanting to wallow.

This year Isaac signed up with my permission and blessing. I don't harbor any fantasies about keeping him out during recess this next week, but at least this way I got to watch with a smile and take pictures.

The before shots.

Our friend Jenn ran the adult version of the race, the whole 10k, earlier that day. Later in the afternoon they opened the course up to the kids for the Piglet Plunge. Jenn ran with Isaac and her son, Little Drew. Here is the start, heading up the big muddy hill. (I don't know where they are.)

Isaac was a trooper--I think he ran the whole way, holding up his pants too. I had him wear clothes that we were throwing away anyway, including a swimsuit with a worn out waist band.

This is down the hill after gigantic slip 'n slide.

Lastly, they entered the "Pig Sty." I told him to look for last years shoes as long as he was in there.

And the after shots. Little Drew didn't love it like Isaac did. He says he doesn't like being dirty. HAH! Since when?

As we walked to the car Isaac asked if he still had mud on his face. "I want to leave it there!" he said. I made him wash it off for church today, but he is very anxious to brag to all his friends on Monday that he did the Dirty Dash.

Deck complete

2011-09-15T15:52:00.001-07:00

Sadly, this is not our deck; happily, my parents have finished this 15 plus year project and want proof to the rest of their children who read this blog. Sorry to all the rest uninterested parties.

And the winner is...

2011-08-30T12:37:00.000-07:00

Jimmy Kimmel's "Late Night Snack"

A few weeks ago while my sister was in town we were up late talking (which is what you do when you get old) and she said she heard about this new ice cream that had fudge covered potato chips in it.

We were dubious, and since I'm too poor to afford a Jeeves we googled it and discovered this funny article.

We decided to try our own taste test against "Chubby Hubby" and "Americone Dream".

Heather volunteered to go to the store (probably too much in-law time already) and the results were conclusive.

That said, "Cherry Garcia" is still my favorite. I guess for Justin's birthday today they will conduct their own taste test. Happy Birthday and let me know the results!

Dad Says

2011-08-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

In Eli's little world one parent's authority can always be overridden by the other parent. In an argument between me and him, Eli will always throw out what he believes to be his trump card, "Nuh-uh, Dad says." Whether or not Dad actually said it.

This morning Isaac told me he had a fever and needed his temperature read. Eli asked, "Is that a fifteen minute thing?"

"No," I said, "It's a thermometer."

"It's not a therMOMeter," Eli retorted. "Dad says!"

"Oh yeah? What does dad say it is?"

"It's a therDADeter."

P.S. Isaac doesn't have a fever.

P.S.S. Look Jessica, your tree is coming back!

Flying High

2011-08-11T17:57:00.000-07:00

When Dave and I were on our honeymoon in scenic and exotic Park City (nearly ten years! ago) we drove up to the Olympic Park only to find it closed. We've always intended to check it our some other time, but haven't gotten around to it until last weekend. As we were leaving to at last make this check on our bucket list Drew was acting like hanging with the fam was total torture. I told him that he had to go because I've been waiting ten years to go. As we toured the facilities I lost count of how many times Drew said, "You've been waiting ten years for this?" Okay, so maybe it wasn't the thrill of a lifetime, but it was fun and he had fun despite what Drew may tell you.

We watched the aerial athletes compete and then put on a show. All three boys are begging for lessons now. I can see why it would appeal to them. It involves skiing straight down as fast as they can with no turning, doing flips through the air, and then landing in a swimming pool. What's not to love? We also watched a nordic ski jumping competitions and let me tell you it looks way more intense in person than it does on TV. All of us (plus friend Christian) rode the alpine slide, fitting right in with Eli's "faster is funner" philosophy of life.

The Growing Season

2011-08-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

This was the wettest Utah spring in at least 100 years (or something like that). It seems that all our prayers for rain were answered all at once. The flood waters didn't reach our house, but we watched anxiously as the Provo River rose and the canals filled up. With all the rain it seems like it took Summer forever to finally arrive and it is shocking that with only a few slip n' slide afternoons under our belt back to school sales are already in full swing. At the end of every storm there is a rainbow however, and we've had several radiant sightings.

This was not the year, as I had hoped, that my garden would thrive. I can't blame it all on the weather, my lack of attention is mostly to blame, but we did get some late snows. Thank goodness for Bountiful Baskets each week. The scouts have been doing their community service with the co-op so Dave or I have spent many a Saturday sorting fruits and veggies with them and enjoying someone else's harvest.

Although our garden is pathetic we have two agricultural successes:

#1. Our lawn: This is where I bear my testimony of soil testing. We finally have a lawn where the grass exceeds the weeds and bald spots. It may seem like a silly thing, but I can't tell you how happy it makes me to at last walk across it bare-footed, that my kids want to play in our yard and not just the neighbors, and that I can look out and see green.

#2. Raspberries: This is the year we finally have enough berries that we can't eat them all as we stand around picking them. Reaching into the thorny patch, the prickle, and the scent, remind me of hours spent picking and eating in the patch behind the blue house with Jessica, in Suzi's backyard, and Summer's celebrating Raspberry Days in Bear Lake with Marci: a sweet taste and sweet memories. I also love that raspberries come back every year with so little effort--the perfect crop in my mind.

The Tee in Team

2011-08-09T22:18:00.000-07:00

I was informed that my sisters had a conversation in which they decided that coaching T-ball was among the more random of the many random things I have done. Apparently, they don't think that I have much athletic prowess or something and that I couldn't pass on some skills to the four to six year old crowd. They would be absolutely right in thinking that, but I have talked Jenn into so many crazy ideas that I owed her one when she needed an assistant coach, and so here I am.

Our team was Little Giants, and the oxymoron was not lost on Isaac who wondered, "How can a giant be little?" Our overall record was good, though we didn't keep score, so I could be wrong, The team ranged in ability from Little Drew who slid into every base and Ray, our only first baseman who could catch a ball to Vivian, running around the bases backward until the end, and Luke, who made pretty pictures in the sand. My job was to decide who got to be catcher each inning and point the way to second base.

What a difference a year makes when it comes to aquiring the coordination necessary for sports. Isaac played like a champ. His attention span has likewise expanded to make it two innings in the outfield. He can hit and field now and run on those stocky legs of his. Eli played in Isaac's place a couple of times while Isaac was at summer camp, and his ability to "intentionally project on object" has not diminished with his increase in speech.

The Birdwatcher

2011-08-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

For Mother's Day Dave bought me a bird watcher's manual to guide me in my carpool birdwatching hobby. The best part of this gift is sharing it with Isaac. Isaac saved a baby killdeer (that's a bird, did you know that? I did not) from the playground back when school was in session and it prompted a passion for all things feathered and winged. Isaac spent hours pouring over my book with a tape measure in hand and a scale by his side so he could get a visual when he reads that a bald eagle has an 82 inch wingspan and weighs 9.5 pounds. Isaac can also point out all the large nests on any commute in or out of Heber, anxiously awaiting the chance to point them out to anyone traveling with us.

Isaac requested a hike to look for bird's nests earlier this summer so we went up to Soldier Hollow to wander around. We invited the Barkers: they are our friends who are always willing to go on an adventure at the drop of a hat. We followed Isaac our guide on a few false trails to where he swears he has seen a crane's nest. No matter though, the hike was beautiful and serene. Luckily, there are several of these osprey nests around the reservoir so we didn't leave without a nest to name.

On Holiday

2011-08-07T17:24:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday Eli dumped a full glass of water onto my laptop keyboard. Immediately, I jumped up, turned it over, powered it off, absorbed what I could with a towel, and gave it a good blow dry. Alas, it was too late. When I turned it on again instead of a welcome screen I got a blank, accompanied by sharp beeping. I feel silly having so much of my life wrapped up in a machine, but it is my entertainment center: radio, tv, newspaper, dvd player; my connection with family and friends; my phone book, atlas, encyclopedia, photo album, etc. Foolishly, I have procrastinated saving it all to the cloud, so you can imagine how I felt fearing it was all gone. I had one consolation that many of my photos and journaling were on the blog.

Blessedly, my computer had a happy ending. My resuscitation efforts (and the prayers that followed) were not in vain because when we took it in to SimplyMac all that was fried was some of my ram and the case (which had been recalled anyway). It was a cheap fix, relative to the cost of a new computer, and was completed the next day. But I have been scared straight! My hard drive is uploading the cloud at this very moment, and I am blogging our summer so our records will be safe. With that long explanation I will segue into our summer holiday.

In June, the Derby Girls (consisting of the female relations on my mom's side) held our annual(ish) retreat in St. George. With summer getting off to such a slow start around here it was so nice to be in the 100+ heat of the desert. I love the red rocks and being there with some of my favorite gals was fabulous. We ate, shopped, ate, swam, ate, and laughed. We also saw Grease at Tuacahn.

After my trip with out my fam to So. Utah, I came home and repacked my bags to go camping. We met our friends, the Dominguez', who were passing through on their way from Washington to Nebraska, at Wasatch Mountain State Park. Mark and Jolynn have kids that match up to each of ours, plus one extra: Braden for Drew, Brooklyn for Isaac, Hyrum for Eli, and Haven. Isaac calls them his "cousins who aren't really cousins."

Drew, Isaac, and Eli had a retreat of their own with Uncle Jake and company up at the cabin. I think they shot BB guns and ran around half nekked, the whole time. Luckily, Nana was there to make sure things didn't get too "Lord of the Flies" up there.

As is tradition, we joined the throngs of Draper who put there chairs out for the parade two weeks in advance for Draper Days festivities. As always, there was fireworks, candy, and large vehicles. Two things however, were conspicuously missing: someone representing the family in the 5K, and the Draper Police Tank, which seems to have been replaced by Segways. But the family was still there and that is what really matters.

Lastly, in the "On Holiday" roundup, we have cousins Shakayla and Evan who came to spend a few days with us. Since there are so many nieces and nephews running around Dave's side of the family we don't often get a chance to spend time and get to know them closely. It was nice to spend time Evan, mellow, and helpful, and with Shakayla, vivacious and eager to please. Shakayla is spending the rest of her vacation recovering from a brutal leg wound (that didn't happen on our watch thank goodness). We hope she is back up and running quickly.

Well, it feels good to get that all off my iPhoto and into the web. I have scheduled posts for the next week chronicling other excitement in the Sullivan Summer.

Houston

2011-07-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

Last week Dave had to take a business trip to Houston. Luckily Dave's lone client in the Lone Star State happens in the city that my sis Jessica and her family just moved to, so I tagged along.

This was my first trip to Texas, not including the multiple layovers I've had in Dallas, and all I've heard about Texas is true. Everything is big in Texas, Texans are proud of their state, and Southern hospitality is real. Also, I learned that July in Texas is bizzaro Utah in January--too hot to leave the house rather than too cold to leave. Nevertheless, leave we did. Jessica, James, and I rode the train into downtown Houston and she showed me some of the city offerings: the Houston Zoo at Hermann Park, Rice University's beautiful campus, the Health and Medicine Museum (made me want to become a doctor), the Holocaust Museum (tragic and not the ideal place to take a two year old, but if you have the freedom for reflection I recommend), the 60th floor view of the JP Morgan Building, George Bush's favorite Chinese restaurant, botanical gardens, underground tunnel systems, and fountains galore.

On Saturday, when the men were free we drove off to visit our long, lost Texas relations. They haven't actually been lost, but we haven't seen them since I was an infant and Jessica was in utero, but even so they made us feel like we had been there all along. We went to celebrate Great Grandma Sylvia's 84th birthday, and met my Grandpa Down's brother and his fam.

In the evening we went to the boardwalk of Kemah, Texas, on the shores of Clear Lake, which leads the Gulf, which leads to the ocean. James ran to the fountain to cool off, and Jessica and I had to join him. It is a good thing we had a little guy to make our fountain frolicking more respectable. This pyro-juggler was among the boardwalk entertainment.

Jessica and John put in an offer on a house in Spring, Texas--only a mile or two from the Houston Temple. We can't wait to visit them in their new abode.

Thanks for a great weekend Jessica and John. Coming home it finally hit me how far away you are. I miss you and can't wait to come back.

If You've Been Wishin' 'Bout Gettin' Stitches

2011-07-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

Last night, as the Raingutter Regatta was wrapping up, Isaac took a flying leap onto an industrial size air-conditioning unit. He walked over, screaming, with blood oozing from his hand grasping the right side of his head. He laid down on the grass and the adults present inspected the wound. Isaac was really concerned about his skinned knees, never mind the pressurized spurts of blood from his head. Dave got the car and we sent our kids to the neighbors as we drove Isaac to the hospital. By this time Isaac had gotten over his knees and had turned his hysterics to the shot he would inevitably be getting, never mind the bloody chunk of flesh hanging from his face.

Halfway to the Heber Hospital he settled down though. He was a champ throughout the entire wait and procedure, chatting with the doctor, and even smiling, far calmer than the other child we have taken in for this procedure. Six stitches later he was all pulled together.

Luckily, the injury occurred amidst a crowd of caring friends. Not only were there plenty of people to help calm him down and run for rags at the scene, but also to shower him with attention, presents, treats, and phone calls afterwards.

This morning I removed the bandage and let him look in the mirror.

"YESSS!!" he exclaimed, "That is so COOL!"

Isaac's dream has finally come true. I hope he remembers that there was pain involved, not just glory, else he will need to start saving his money. At least he will have a cool scar to keep as a memento, because we all know chicks dig scars!

Packing It In On Fourth of July

2011-07-12T14:51:00.000-07:00

Our Fourth of July began with the Annual Neighborhood Fourth of July Breakfast. Actually, it began with Dave and the scouts putting up flags in the neighborhood. Then we went to the breakfast our friends the Smedleys host every year, complete with pancakes, potluck, and a flag raising ceremony.

This year we followed the breakfast with a neighborhood softball game. After all the pre-game trash talk I chose to participate from the sidelines, but the rest of the family played a more active roll.

Someone commented after the game that he was looking forward to relaxing on the Fourth of July. To some that means kicking back in an air-conditioned room and a glass of lemonade. To others it means taking a bunch of kids on a 16 mile bike ride. I guess we are in the latter camp because when someone suggested riding the Provo River trail we jumped on the the bandwagon, or the bike trailer, as the case may be.

Isaac made it nine miles on his 16-inch one-speed bike before he ditched his wheels at a gas station and joined Eli in the pedi-cab. After watching him pedal 100 times for our one we decided that maybe it is time for him to upgrade if we are going to go on many more family rides.

It has been Isaac's dream to see Utah Lake since a DWR guy came to his class and told him about the salmon. He was very happy to finally get close to the lake, though he didn't see the fish like he'd hoped. There was a large concentration of mosquitoes though.

We made it back just in time to have an impromptu barbecue. I didn't take any picture. We were all too hungry.

Finally, the neighbors gathered again for fireworks and patriotic dessert. Aerial fireworks really improved the usual neighborhood show. Eli did not enjoy them as much as the rest of us. He hid under my sweatshirt for the entire show. We ended our festivities just in time for a the rain to douse the fire. I guess that is one advantage of having young kids and not staying up late.

Even though we were busy from sun-up to sun down, it really was a relaxing day. It was nice not to have any pressure to do anything at any certain time, or drive very far. it is always fun to hang out with great friends and neighbors, and celebrate the events of 1776 that allow us the peace and prosperity we enjoy.

Saturday night bike ride

2011-07-03T08:39:00.001-07:00

Last night Heather agreed to go with my dad, my neighbor Chris and me on a ride from Midway to Orem. It was good fun until the trail ran out just past the dam, when we decided to just ride along the railroad tracks. My bottom if still smarting! It was definitely the worst Dave idea of the day. It added probably an extra 40 minutes to an hour to our ride. It felt soo good to see this sign:

Next time we'll take our chances on the highway.

The Last Day: Back-Blogged

2011-06-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

I can tell that I get much more sentimental about beginnings and endings than my children do. I show my excitement for the end of school and the beginning of summer much more than they do. I look forward to late nights and sleeping in, a chance to have a new beginning in regards to goals and schedules, and to spending more time with my kids that doesn't involve nagging them to wake up, or do their homework, or put on some clean socks. Two weeks into summer vacation, some of that excitement has faded, but the great thing about back blogging is that I can feel that excitement all over again and look forward to next week with the same eagerness, especially since it is finally warm outside!

Isaac graduated from Kindergarten. His teachers dispensed with the formalities and gave the kids their diploma as they flew down the slide. Isaac missed his as he sped down, hopefully that is not a harbinger of graduations to come.

I can't ever see or hear about a grade school graduation without thinking about that line from The Incredibles.

"They keep creating new ways to celebrate mediocrity."**

There were no such mediocre celebrations in the 2nd grade. Nevertheless, Drew is on his way to grade three.

Next, we have some snapshots from the school awards assembly.

At field day each of the kids made a tie-dye t-shirt. (Sign #73 that we send our kids to a hippie school.) My kids' awards are just as impressive as my niece's and nephew's, in their own special way. Actually, Chauncey and Shakayla did accomplish some great things this school year if you want to check out their end of school post.

After his stellar performance in The Garden Show Drew received the STAR award. He was voted by his class as "Most Likely to See His Name In Lights."

Isaac received the "Curious George" award.

We drove home blasting Alice Cooper's, "Schools Out For Summer." Here's to a fabulous summer vacation.

**P.S. Dave thinks I might be a little too snarky here. Lest I sound demeaning of grade school graduations and awards assemblies, I love them. They are way more enjoyable than "real" graduations. I just thought that scene from Incredibles was funny.

Drew's Baptism

2011-06-09T21:29:00.000-07:00

Following his eighth birthday, Drew was baptized on June 4, 2011. What can I say other than I am so proud of this kid for so many reasons.

His teacher called me the week before school got out to tell me something that impressed her on one of their field trips. The 2nd grade took a bike ride down Provo Canyon--seven miles. Drew was leading the pack on his Hot Rock. He heard that some of the other kids were running out of steam in the back, so Drew turned around and rode back a mile to check and finish the ride with them. That doesn't surprise me. Drew is one of the kindest people I know.

I recently overheard a conversation between Drew and one of his friends. This friend invited Drew to go to the zoo with him on Sunday. Drew answered that he went to church on Sunday. He didn't pass judgement on his friend, didn't make a big deal out of it. But said it with confidence, knowing where he ought to be on Sunday.

Drew aspires to follow the Savior. I am proud of him for making a covenant to do it, and for being such an example to me.

I realize in this picture how small I am and how quickly Drew is going to overtake me. At least there will be one more person around here who can see on top of the fridge.

Here are two of the most handsome men I know.

Thanks to all our family and friends who came to support Drew (so we can remember): Bubba, Nana and Grandpa Down, Katelyn, Jake, and Andy; Aunt Laura, Uncle Mike, Savannah, Chelsea, Aaron, and Brooklyn; Aunt Cheryl and Cheyenne; Aunt Cathy, Uncle Clark, and Jocelyn, Zabels, Knudsens, Barkers, Sister Johnson, Bro and Sis Fish.
Drew was confirmed by Dad on June 5 with Bishop Smedley, Toby Bluth, Chris Knudsen, Dean Barker, Brett Zabel.

Drew wanted me to be sure and post a picture of him with the cat.

Memorial Weekend

2011-06-02T21:31:00.000-07:00

Happy unofficial first day of summer.

Although snow is never a welcome sight on May 31, it actually made for a nice day. We relaxed, we remembered, we kept company with the folks we love. We drove over snowy Parley's Summit and into the valley Memorial Day morning, passing SUVs with skis on top as hard core winter enthusiasts hit the powder, and stopped at our girls' resting spot at the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon.

The brothers picked out traditional mums in their favorite colors and laid them at their sisters' spots. They learned a little about the military honors, and they brushed snow from and propped up flowers placed earlier in the weekend. I'm proud of them for the respect that they are learning.

Next, we headed for our holiday "barbeque" where Nana cooked hotdogs on the stove because, did I mention? it was snowing. Cousins came from Carlsbad and El Paso, but I didn't get any pictures for no good reason. It was great to see everyone.

Dave and I took Drew on his special eight year old birthday date that evening to buy him a suit. We wanted to take him somewhere special for dinner so we drove downtown to the Garden on the top floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, and it was closed. We also tried to take him to Deseret Book to get a set of scriptures, and that too was closed. The evening did not go as planned. Hopefully he remembers though that his parents tried, even if we come up short in so many things.

I told him to stop flashing gang signs when I took his picture at temple square. He was flashing his "temple" sign he told me.

Isaac has saved all his birthday money and Easter Egg hunt dough for a pet. He frequents Petsmart and Petco on the web, and has made a few stops in the brick and mortar stores trying to decide on the perfect creature for him that his parents would actually allow. Trying to vindicate ourselves from being the parents who "always tell us to save our money but when we do you still never let us get anything" we took the plunge and picked up a kitten while we were in the valley. Meet ~~Rocker,~~ ~~Goober,~~ Gilbert, mostly known as Kitty.

The boys adore him, especially the two who are not the responsible owners. Isaac is nervous around Gilbert and his kitten claws, which of course makes kitty nervous and more likely to use those claws. We got a cat, as opposed to a guinea pig, with the intent that it be an outside animal. That part is not going so well. As a matter of fact, I just rescued the cat from Eli who had sneaked him into his room and had him muffled between his feet under his covers--at 10:15 at night. The cat is such a social animal and loves to be where the people are, and the people are not in the garage. He sneaks in any chance he gets and then follows us around licking our toes; that has been kind of endearing.

I admit it. I am a sucker.

Drew is Great, Drew is Eight!

2011-05-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

It seems absolutely crazy that we have an EIGHT-YEAR-OLD! An eight year old who is one day away from graduating from second grade, and less than two weeks away from being baptized. Rather than making me feel old, it makes me feel happy that we have gotten a kid so far without any major damage from our trial-and-error parenting style. Drew is such a genuine and good kid. We are so blessed to have him around. Case in point: For his birthday, Drew asked for an attachment for his bike so he could hook up the trailer and pull his brothers around. He pulled them to church on Sunday . I pulled Isaac and Eli around last summer and I can testify they are not feather weights, and I'm sure they have gained a pound or two since.

We had a family party on Sunday with both sets of grandparents, Uncles Jake and Andy, and Aunt Katelyn. Drew got a tool kit from Grandma Tiede--now Dave will probably be borrowing from Drew instead of the other way around. He also got a Rip Stick. It is amazing how fast kids can pick up on stuff like that. He had it figured out in no time. Of course, maybe if I wasn't in charge of feeding everyone I'd have time to figure it out; Dave sure did.

What's great about Drew at 8:

Drew is a fabulous big brother. Drew takes good care of Isaac at school and even lets Isaac hang out with him and his second grade friends at recess. Drew takes responsibility for teaching Eli the ropes of being a boy. He is also very responsible. I can count on Drew to "babysit" whenever I need Eli out of my hair for a while.
Eli calls him "Giant Drew," not to be confused with "Big Drew" in our neighborhood who used to be "Little Drew." He never doesn't call him Giant Drew.
Drew's favorite subject in school is math. He is very proud to be working on multiplication facts at school right now (at least he was last week before the end-of-school festivities started). He doesn't love reading quite so much, but he managed to create this fine book cover illustration for his book report last month.
Drewser is so excited to start Cub Scouts. He has been lucky to get to go to scouts with Dad a lot over the years and he already feels like one of the group.
Drew will eat whatever I put in front of him, mostly anyway, and he rarely forgets to thank me for making dinner. I also love that he requests strawberry shortcake for his birthday treat. I've decided frosting sculptures aren't really my thing.
Drew is so much like his dad. One example, he is such a ham when he gets on the stage. Here are some photos from his school play last week. He was a tabloid reporter, reporting on the aliens that crash landed in the play.

I am so proud of my first-born. Happy Birthday Drew!

May Days, Part 1

2011-05-15T18:42:00.000-07:00

During the past several weeks all car rides have been accompanied by the "Hope of America" soundtrack. The first and second grades at the school join kids from just about every school in Utah county for a musical patriotic program as part of the Freedom Festival. The boys love the music, and request the CD even now that the program is over. Eli can sing the VOTE song, and frequently does. Myself, I cringe a little at the rah-rah patriotism in some of the numbers as I listen to it all year, but both times I've seen it I've been honestly touched and humbled as the kids sing in such large numbers songs of thanks, and lyrics inspiring them and us to be better citizens. Plus, the kids think it is really cool to be a part of the biggest flag they have ever seen. Our seats this year obstructed our view of the whole flag, but we were directly across from Drew.

This week, perfectly timed with our new bird watching hobby, Eli, Isaac, and I went with the kindergarten to the Tracy Aviary. Isaac has been fascinated with California Condors and their 10 foot wingspan. Luckily, the Aviary has an Andean Condor named Andy to impress us.

Heber finally warmed up a little this week. Only to the 70's, but really temperature is all relative. I told my kids no slip n' slide until it is 85 degrees, but Jenn is obviously a lot nicer mom than I am. The kids had a ball in the heat at their house.

Isaac decided earlier this school year he wanted to take piano lessons. Dave and I hesitated because we remembered how much fun it was trying to convince Drew to practice when he wanted to take lessons in kindergarten, but when Isaac called the teacher himself to set up his lessons we relented.

He played in his first recital this week, and according to my unbiased, well-tuned ear, he was the best student to play. He loves to experiment on the ivory keys and make up his own songs. I hope he stays motivated. I think he's a natural.

Dave's band has been in high demand lately. Last week they played at the Race for the Cure in Salt Lake City (I missed it because I was at my dance recital, but I hear they were awesome.) Yesterday, they played at the grand re-opening of Liberty Park. As they set up we took the boys on a couple rides. You can tell Eli was thrilled with the airplane ride. I took the other two on the Ferris wheel. The band sounded great, but about three songs into their set the clouds started to swirl above us and then it started to pour...and pour...and pour. We groupies, sadly, are fair weathered fans and we listened to the rest of the show from the comfort of the car, and prayed that the lightening would spare them and all the electric instruments they were holding. It did.

Best Mother's Day Weekend Ever

2011-05-08T20:36:00.000-07:00

My fabulous weekend started with a swanky Mother's Day Tea with my favorite Kindergartner at Deer Valley. The kids planned out the menu, created beautiful decorations, and supplied five star service. One of the room mothers is a chef at the Stag Lodge at Deer Valley. She has been teaching them about food and cooking all year; they had a chance to practice what they've been learning in a true chef's kitchen.

My favorite decorative piece was a place mat Isaac made with a tribute to his mom. Isaac has me pegged.
Nana came up to share the morning with us.

It was a beautiful day and a beautiful way to start the weekend.

My dance classed performed at their recital this weekend. It is always such a relief to see that their hard work has paid off. Both of my classes danced superbly. Here is a picture of my ballroom class in L.O.V.E. (Can you tell, they are spelling it?)

I am most excited about my Mother's Day gift from Eli. He has finally decided that riding the Potty Train is the way to go. I won't say he is 100% yet, but he's had more successes than failures this weekend.

Today my family gave me the royal treatment. My boys showered me with love notes, handmade cards, and just plain sweetness. Dave acted as my sous chef this evening and made me a delicious dinner. Drew's teacher, Ms. MaryAnn and her husband came to dinner. She shows Drew so much love and patience that it is only fitting she spend Mother's Day with us.

I am surely the luckiest mom alive!

For Cierra (Better late than never...better never late)

2011-04-26T20:33:00.000-07:00

My niece Cierra has epilepsy. To show her our support today our family is celebrating Purple Day for Epilepsy Awareness. I pulled a Heather. I calendared it on April 26th. Imagine my suprise this Easter Weekend when we were at Nana's and Bubba's house and we saw a darling photo of Cierra in her Purple Day ensemble dated March 26. I am so lame. We missed it by a month. But to show our dedication and support we are celebrating Purple Day 2012 a whole eleven months early!

Cierra,

We love you and wish you were closer. We know that you are one tough young lady, and that although you have some difficult challenges you are up to the task. XOXO

Love,

The Heber Sullivans

*in partial disclosure, someone may or may not be photo shopped into his purple.

Our Spring Break

2011-04-25T20:43:00.000-07:00

We spent our Spring Break home in Heber. It was so nice to just stay home and not have anything scheduled. The weather was decent, better at least then we would have had if our break had been a week earlier. We slept in and took 'er easy. Now that we've had a taste we can hardly wait for summer vacation.

Drew and Eli and I spent a couple of mornings at the skate park. Here is Drew's trick,

and Eli's trick,

and my trick.

Just kidding, that's not me.

We spent a day at Nana's pool, then the boys had a farewell sleepover with cousin James. We are sure going to miss Aunt Jessica, Uncle John, and James when they move to the Texas next month.

We thought Friday would be a good day to go to the zoo with some friends, since Salt Lake was still in school we didn't expect it to be too busy. We forgot to account for all the school field trips though; there was a good crowd.

The animals seemed to appreciate the attention and showed us their best side.

The boys had fun monkeying around.

As previously mentioned, we witnesses Uncle Chuck's triumph in the SLC Marathon and the boys spent some time chasing and wrestling cousin Carter.

We also stopped so Isaac could pick up his birthday present from Nana and G-pa Down.

Grandpa wanted to take him outside to shoot magpies. "No, we can't shoot birds! In the olden days they made a club to teach people not to shoot birds and put them on their hats, so we shouldn't shoot birds." (Isaac learned about the founding of the Audobon Society from that hippie school we send our kids to.) He is enjoying shooting targets and army men instead.

As further proof that we are hippies, here is a picture of our flower child.

When I was prego with #2 Kmart had a sale on blanket sleepers. I stocked up on the masculine ones, but bought one girl one figuring I'd have a daughter sooner or later. It's been handy to have around when nieces or little friends need to borrow a change of jammies, but mostly Eli wears them when he runs out of clean laundry.

Now we are back to real life and spring seems to have left us for the time being. Oh well. We enjoyed it while it lasted.

That guy finishing the SL marathon, yeah, that's my brother...

2011-04-18T19:43:00.000-07:00

I'm so impressed with my brother, Chuck, who flew out to Salt Lake to run his very first marathon! I'm afraid to say I was a bit of a doubter and called twice to see if he was still in the race before I left Heber to drive down to the finish line.

That's me in the yellow taking a small jog next to the finish line. I should have headed around the finish because he got there before I could cut thru. Not really sure why blogger is underlining this, but it's not really any more important.

I did catch up with him waiting for his massage

Which I'm sure felt great!!

The good looking side of the Oklahoma Sullivan's made the trip to support her hubby as well. She probably has worked just as hard to help him make this goal.

Again, can I say that I'm sooooo impressed and proud?

Ski Summary

2011-04-17T19:11:00.000-07:00

This weekend I washed and packed up the snow gear. It makes me want to sing,

"I cry the day that I take the coats down,
I want the season to last all year 'round"

Just kidding, but now that I actually like winter it is feeling more bittersweet. I took the boys on one last Deer Valley day at the beginning of spring break. Jessica and Uncle T-rev came with us, which was awesome, because I am way too wimpy of a skier for Drew. He needed them to take him down black diamonds and through tree trails. I have no need for speed myself, but I love, love, love being out there just the same.I wish I had taken more pictures of our ski outings this year, but we usually forgot our camera, and when we did have it we didn't use it. That's okay, because I took lots of mental pictures so I can create an imaginary slideshow for myself to enjoy.

Cue Music

"I cry the day that I take the coats down"
Insert picture of Drew and Dave at their first snowboard lesson at Park City. They took advantage of the Start Now Program, a killer deal for locals just starting out.

"I want the season to last all year 'round."
Insert video of the day we all went to Sundance to ride the bunny hill for free. I took Eli down a run, but he can't really balance yet so he had to ride down between my legs. Thighs on fire! But it was worth it because he LOVED it.
Also, insert Dave on his new snowboard. I guess he liked his lesson.

"When I am surrounded by these memories,"
"It's almost like you're here on skis"
I actually have a picture from Dave's and my ski date. We have a friend who is very generous with her Deer Valley buddy passes. This was the first time Dave had been on skis since he was a teenager, but he was still way more skilled than I am. Jessica came with us too, I needed some pointers to get me down the hill. Deer Valley is the place to ski, I'm loving the valet service!

"It's strange how when snow is touched by love,
We like things that we never though much of."
Oh, how I wish I had footage of the day my friend Jenn and I took our kids to "Ski Free After Three" at Alta (are you noticing a pattern here, we only ski when it's free). All the other moms backed out and warned us not to go when blizzard warnings sounded. We went anyway because we're totally nuts like that.

The younger boys couldn't ride the tow from the parking lot to the lift by themselves so us moms had to hold them between our legs--thighs on fire again, but this time for at least a mile, I swear. It took us 45 minutes to make it with the boys falling off, getting stuck, and leapfrogging past each other. We were sweating like marathoners by the end.

We rode the lift up to the top of the mountain and followed the signs marked "easiest way down," only to find chest-high-to-a-five-year-old powder, making for lots of wiping out, then digging out, reattaching skis, and crying. But once we made it halfway down we all got the hang of it and things improved. The thing about trying to have fun with kids is it takes a superhuman amount of work to have a little bit of fun--in this case, six hours of work and hundreds of calories burned for two hours of skiing and three runs, but somehow it is all worth it. Riding up the lift, eating fruit snacks with my boys, seeing the grin on Isaac's face when he figures it out, listening to Drew exaggerate how high he flew of that "jump" is priceless.

"I cry the day I take the skis down
I want the season to last all year 'round."
Dave took Isaac on one last trip out last week. They were the only two who got to go because they were the only two who could go and stay within our budget of free. Dave practically had to force him to go, he wanted to stay and play with friends, but he had a great time once they pulled out of the driveway. The moral of the story: forcing your kids to have fun is okay.

"And I'm dreaming of winter days when
We'll be out skiing again."

Thanks for reading my long and slightly quirky reminiscences. In case you didn't catch it, my song is my version of "I Cry the Day I Take the Tree Down" from The Forgotten Carols.

Golden Year

2011-04-11T19:14:00.000-07:00

Much to Isaac's dismay we have decided we are an every-other-year-birthday party kind of family. "But Mom," he complained, "Daniel wants to come and Roan, and Lilly, and Lil' Drew, and Tyler, and Sam, and Michael, and TJ, and...and...and..." Our system doesn't seem to be satisfactory to a six-year-old with so many friends.

I brought doughnuts to his kindergarten class and then we took the extras to Drew's class and that seemed to at least partially satisfy his need to have everyone he knew celebrate with him. In his class they do an activity where the birthday kid gets to be "the earth" and make a revolution around "the sun" for each year old that they are and they sing:The Earth goes 'round the sun.
The Earth goes 'round the sun.
The earth goes 'round the sun.
And now Isaac is one.

The Earth goes 'round the sun.
The Earth goes 'round the sun.
The earth goes 'round the sun.
And now Isaac is two.

And so one and so forth. That's what these pictures are of: Isaac making six revolutions around the sun.

Isaac got to choose one friend to take to the aquarium in Sandy on his birthday afternoon. We had a great time. Among the favorites were the sea turtle, new since we've been there, the electric eels, and the penguins.

Afterward we had pizza at Nana's and Bubba's house and opened presents and cards. Thank you grandmas, grandpas, aunts, and uncles who sent cards and birthday money. He feels like the richest kid on the planet!

Some awesome facts about Isaac as a six year old:

He knows it all! Just ask him, and what he doesn't know he will come up with some well-thought out hypothesis to explain. He is becoming an excellent reader and mathematician. Academics come very easily to him so far.
He is very influential among his friends, probably on account of him knowing so much, or at least being able to convince them all that he knows so much. One example of this is earlier in the school year when he convinced a fellow classmate to pull the fire alarm interrupting lessons for the entire school.
He has become a great little skier this year, both downhill and cross-country. To quote Isaac, "I can go speed!"
He wants to be either an inventor or astronaut when he grows up. He spends hours and goes through reams of paper sketching out his designs and plans.
This was his golden birthday. He turned six on the sixth--a once in a lifetime event.
He thinks his older brother is the shizz-nizz, but he can can hold his own against Drew too. They are best buds.
He has his first loose tooth right now.
Isaac has the best smile ever, and he is always wearing it. No matter what he does, or how much trouble he ought to be in he usually gets off easy. How can you stay mad at a face like that?

Derbies, Dudes, Sushi and Spouses

2011-04-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

The female relatives on my mom's side have a club, the Derby girls, kind of like the Ya Ya's but with less southern drama. We don't know what the name means or where it came from, but it seems to have stuck. We don't do much demolition derbying, or roller derbying, or wearing derby hats; we mostly get together to eat and occasionally ski.

Last night we invited our husbands to come along for sushi night. My sushi experience has been limited to an occasional California Roll from Costco. Luckily we had some sushi connoisseurs to guide us through the meal. The meal was amazing! I now understand the sushi phenomenon and gorged myself like a true sush-phile. The company was just as good, I'm lucky to have family who are also my friends.

I also picked up my birthday present yesterday.

Now I too can have a Canon appendage and hopefully the blogging will pick up around here. Thanks Mom and Dad.

Look At Me, Me, Me--I'm 3, 3, 3!

2011-04-03T16:48:00.000-07:00

Eli turned 3 last week, or "free" if you ask Eli. We had the grandparents up for dinner along with Uncles Andy, Jake, and John; Aunts Katelyn and Jessica, and Cousin James. We ate his favorite food, "Mac-a-cheese" and opened presents. He has been waiting for his special day to roll around for a while now, especially since his friend "Big Drew" had a Toy Story party a few weeks ago. He has finally caught the vision of presents and attention.

He received, among other things, a Beyblade. For those of you who don't have an elementary aged boy, a Beyblade is a "battle top" and the hottest thing on the playground. Eli must have what his brothers have to prevent mucho fighting so he is the first three-year old on the block to have the hot item. The boys spent hours after the party having Beyblade battles with the guests. The competition was fierce and the trash-talking fiercer. Eli told Grandpa down that he would "Kick his princess butt!" (I am not responsible for such language.)I went back and read over Eli's past years' birthday blogs. He has changed so much and also remained so much the same. Here are some of the ways:

2009: Not walking yet, and no immediate plans to. Eli has no inclination to rush into anything.
2011: He finally started walking at 18 months, but is not trying to make up for lost time with potty-training. He has no interest what. so. ever.

2009: Favorite food: cheerios and bananas, but will also will eat curry, black beans, oranges--almost anything (but still no chicken).
2011: Fav food is still cheerios. Cheerios keep him alive. He won't eat a banana anymore, but has moved on to apples. If an apple a day keeps the doctor away then three must be even better is Eli's nutritional philosophy. He will eat the occasional bite of chicken in nugget form only.

2010: He has confused enunciation with volume. If he has something to say and it's not getting through he immediately switches to ambulance siren decibel levels until he gets what he needs.
2011: Now he can enunciate and project. His speech delay of a year ago has turned into a running commentary on what anyone is doing at any hour of the day. Dave says he has a future in sports-casting.

2010: He loves to go anywhere with mom and dad. As soon as he notices anyone putting on their shoes, or making any indication of leaving he immediately demands SOCKS! and BOOTS! and COAT! and CAR! so he can go too.
2011: Eli still has to be part of the action. This year the activities he is most interested in not being left out of are going to school and skiing. I can expect one of his trademark tantrums anytime we leave the school before everyone else is dismissed. He is convinced that he IS in kindergarten. He has not been content to run around the ski hills in his boots either while his brothers have all the fun. He doesn't quite have the balance yet to stay up while his feet slide out from under him, but try telling him that!

Other things about Eli at 3:He loves to give big, sloppy, wet kisses, and eskimo kisses (which during allergy season are also big and wet), and butterfly kisses.

Buzz and Woody are his heroes. His favorite catch phrases are: "To infinity and beyond." and "There's a 'nake in my boot."

He is extremely active in the kitchen, especially if an appliance is involved. He is constantly pulling around his barstool to see what mom is into. Eli's favorite treat is raw bread dough. I am constantly finding pinch marks in my rising loaves,

He's still a daddy's boy, but he's mom's constant companion. I really had withdrawals when he had a sleepover at Nana/Grandpa's last week.

His best friend is Sam across the street. They are two peas in a pod and partners in crime. Eli is still pretty shy around other kids so it is great he has such a buddy.

Eli and Drew are about the same age difference as Drew and my little bro Jake. Drew seems to fill the same role in Eli's life as Jake filled in his: mentor for all things boy. As a result Eli is beyond his years in mischief making.

As much work as having three boys is (in Dave's and my humble opinion) having Eli around is worth it all. We are so happy he is our boy.

Disneyland

2011-03-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

Every year since we plan to go to Disneyland in February. I've typically had a hard time with February it being cold and bleak and all. So far we have never made it. Something always comes up. It's okay though, thanks to snowshoeing and cross country skiing I've developed a better relationship with the bleak end of winter. In fact, when our standing wish to go to Disneyland in February came around it was me who nixed it. I didn't want to miss that prime snow. We did finally make it the first week of March in honor of Claire's and Lily's birthday. Great planning on our part. We heard that February in So. Cal. was no good this year, but in March provided us some delightful 70 degree days for wandering the happiest place on earth.

The last time we made it to Disneyland was in 2007--four years ago. Isaac and Drew didn't remember much so it was like taking our kids for the first time. Eli was in awe of everything. You couldn't wipe the grim off his face. He especially loved the Buzz Lightyear Star Command ride, the Matterhorn, and Finding Nemo. He did not love being left when Drew or Isaac went on rides that he couldn't. That brought on a few royal meltdowns. Eli is usually our shy child, but that did not extend to Disney characters. He easily high-fived and hugged any one in a costume.

Isaac was tall enough for everything but Indiana Jones and California Screamin'. His favorite ride was Thunder Mountain Railroad--classic. He went on Tower of Terror and hated it. If you asked him if he wanted to ride it again you would get an adamant "NO!"But since he's been home a few days he has decided it is pretty cool after all and he will include it with his favorites. I don't feel so bad about making him go anymore. I knew it would help him score points with the big kids.

Drew was our partner on all the big rides. He's finally big enough to go on everything and he loved it. His favorite was California Screamin'. He has a taste for the thrill rides and thinks his mom is such a wimp for screaming on the Tower of Terror. Whatever, I wasn't screaming because I was scared. I've been on Tower of Terror more times than he is years old in one day. I own the Tower of Terror. I was screaming because it's awesome!

Dave was shocked that taking three kids to Disneyland was as much work as it was. Obviously he isn't the one who has to take three kids school shopping. I think he had fun anyway. It was great to be with dad for a week and have him all to ourselves.

I'm not a great picture taker when I'm on vacation. But here's what we got.

2011-03-07T22:32:00.001-08:00

Blogging by sms. Trying to kill time in the car. It sort of works, hence the previous 2 mixed up posts.

2011-03-07T22:30:00.003-08:00

(2 of 2) watch that little blue dot move across the state. Dear Sprint GPS, We are no longer friends. (Blogged from my phone so we'll see if this works.)

2011-03-07T22:30:00.001-08:00

(1 of 2) Dear Google Maps Ap, I love you. You get me to where I need to go, found me something to eat, and confirmed that we are still in California. I like to

More Love

2011-03-05T14:02:00.000-08:00

Dave picked up the boys from school last week and what did he find?

Isaac holding hands with a girl. His "girlfriend."

Really? Already? In Kindergarten?

He asked me if you are supposed to be in love with a girlfriend. I told him usually.

"I'm only in love with her this much," he said, holding his fingers two inches apart, "but I like her this much!" he continued, standing up on the back of the couch and reaching his hand as high as it could go. And you should see him grin when anybody mentions her.

She is a cutie, I have to admit. If I were to choose his future bride from among his kindergarten classmates, Lil' Miss Lilly is who I would choose for him as well. She is the closest in height and the best reader in the class. I'm not ready for Isaac to find a girl he loves more than his mother though. I'm still the only one who he can give kisses to!

Isaac and Lilly--separately.

We Love Our School

2011-02-19T06:38:00.000-08:00

Drew and Isaac go to Soldier Hollow Charter School here in the valley. A charter school is one publicly funded, but run by a private entity, and often have a special focus. SHCS's focus is environmental science and Nordic Skiing. The school accepts applications for the lottery* in February, so while we are still in the month here is our plug for our school.

Why We Love Our School

Parental Involvement
This is the number one thing I love about our school and it has been more significant than I realized. Because charter schools don't receive as much funding per student they ask that families donate time in service to the school. I spend my time helping with reading in each of my kids classrooms. I love that my kids still like me being there and are excited to share there school day with me.

I love that I have a close relationship with my kids' teachers. If ever there is a problem or Drew or Isaac is struggling with something I know about it immediately and both the teacher and I can address it together. Likewise, when my kids succeed or reach milestones, I am part of that as well. I love knowing my kids' friends and their parents. I really care about all the kids in their classes and know that my kids have many caring adults watching out for them. I appreciate that parents are expected to be part of the solution.

Location, Location, Location
The school is located within the boundaries of Soldier Hollow State Park, and provides a unique opportunity for exploring and integrating nature into the curriculum. When they discuss native plants and animals or water cycles or conservation there is a living lab right outside the door. There is a garden that they grow vegetables. (That last sentence is Drew's contribution). During the warm months kids can bring their bikes on the trails for recess, or Drew's class's preferred activity: hang out in the "tree fort" next to the stream.

This school is right in the middle of the 2002 Olympic Nordic Ski Course. The kids get to watch the athletes train each season. The school holds its own Olympics each year and it is fun to use the same facilities, stand on the same medal stands, and be in the same surroundings that Gold Medalists use.

Academic Record
Soldier Hollow performs well in state testing, so I feel confident that my kids are learning what they need to. SHCS was nominated this year by the Utah State Department of Education as a Blue Ribbon school, one of only three schools in the state and the only elementary of all public, private, and charter schools. On a personal level, I feel like my kids' academic needs are being addressed according to their strengths and weaknesses through leveled math and reading programs.

Have I Mentioned the Skiing?
Cross country skiing is part of the curriculum. It's nice for the kids to get some good outside activity time during the coldest months here, and they are getting pretty good at it. Drew will tell you it is not fast enough for his tastes, but now that he has been learning biathlon he is pretty stoked. (What seven year old boy wouldn't be stoked to shoot rifles at school?) The kids also get a free trail pass and rentals at Soldier Hollow outside of school.

Then there is the parent ski discount: it's the reason I look forward to January and February now. Any time I dread driving all that way to take Drew and Isaac to school, or feel like I am too busy to volunteer in their classes I remember my ski discount and it is all worthwhile. This is a totally selfish reason, I know, but if I can get such an awesome reward for something I'm going to do any way I will take it.

The School Calendar is More Sensible IMO

For the most part we follow Wasatch School District's calendar, but adjustments have been made to get out for Christmas on a Friday and get out for the year the Friday before Memorial Day. Not everyone may agree, but I think going two days before Christmas and four after Memorial is superfluous.

I'm also a fan of Friday half day. I want my kids in school all day on Monday, and by Friday I'm ready for some fun.

I've Become a Believer in All-Day Kindergarten
I was initially hesitant about this for Isaac as he has the attention span of a fruit fly, but I have been really pleased with the results thus far. The first couple of months were an adjustment for him and many of the kids in his class, but now I am impressed at how quickly they can absorb what they are learning. In my experience 2.5 hours is just not long enough. The teachers have class time well-structured to fit the kids' attention limits and interests. Plus, since I spend so much time in his class I'm not concerned that he is missing out on the influence of home.

We have been really happy with our choice to send our kids to Soldier Hollow. For us school is a family affair, not a competing influence. We have met so many people who enrich the experience. We did attend the neighborhood school for one year, and have nothing but good things to say about it, but we feel like Soldier Hollow is the place for our family.

*Most grades you could probably still get into without participating in the lottery, but Kindergarten already has more applications than there are spots available.

A Family Hoe Down

2011-02-13T19:05:00.000-08:00

Move over Carter Family.

A Parting

2011-02-06T19:55:00.000-08:00

For now, I will just say "See you later." William Andrew Down
February 25, 1936-February 1, 2011

Celebrating 29!

2011-01-31T03:05:00.000-08:00

For Heather's birthday we went snowshoeing with friends. It took some serious threatening (not to celebrate their birthdays) and coaxing to go out in the winter, but like always, they thought it was the best birthday party we've had for mom.

Must See Ski

2011-01-30T20:47:00.001-08:00

I went skiing with Isaac and his class this past week. Isaac is becoming an excellent skier. How excellent you ask? Just look at this snowplow. He insisted that I take this picture and that I "show everybody." I have to agree, he has some moves. Skiing with Kindergarten was surprisingly pleasant--especially compared to skiing with first grade last year. Considerably less time was spent picking up kiddos. Really, this mom was so proud of her son and is happy to show pictures to everyone she knows.Drew and Dave took their first snowboarding lessons this week too. It took some letting go on my part to let this happen as I come from a strictly skiing family, but my sister married a snowboarder and he's still a good guy so I guess it'll probably be okay. Isaac, Eli, and I watched under perfect blue skies in t-shirts. Even just standing out there and getting the first (minor) sunburn of 2011 was more wonderful than I can describe. The sun is my drug in January. No pictures though.

After School Activity

2011-01-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

At the school fund-raising auction we bought a bowling date with the Kindergarten teachers at our school. As our chief Kindergartner in our family, Isaac is going to tell us how it went.

Me: What are we doing here Isaac?

Isaac: Bowling with my teacher and the other Kindergarten teacher.

Me: What are their names?

Isaac: Ms. Kaara and Miss Brooke. Ms. Kaara is my teacher.

Me: Who was the best bowler?

Isaac: Me, 'Cause I won the first contest.

Me: Tell me about your bowling ball.

Isaac: I had a dark green, no dark blue, and it was an 8 size and I could still carry it. And I could make it go where ever I want because it's not that heavy. I hit a red one of those little baseball bats.

Me: In the picture you are using a yellow ball.

Isaac: It was really heavy! Whenever I used the yellow ball I put it on the slide thingy.

Me: What worked better?

Isaac: The blue one.

Me: When you played teams did you like being on your mom's team?

Isaac: Yeah.

Me: Even though I made you lose?

Isaac: Uh, yeah.

Me: Tell me something you like about Ms. Kaara and Miss Brooke.

Isaac: That they are nice. My favorite thing to do with them is going bowling. They're good bowlers.

Me: What's your favorite thing about Kindergarten.

Isaac: That you get to ski all day.

Me: Skiing and bowling, that doesn't sound too bad.

Isaac: Yeah! Can I play PBS kids now.

Me: Okay. Love you Isaac.

Isaac: I love you too.

Oregon

2011-01-15T19:08:00.000-08:00

Last week I went with my cousins Lindsey and Savannah and my sister Katelyn on a long over-due trip to good ol' Klamath Falls to see G.ma and G.pa Down. I felt like on this trip I saw all these family members in a new light.

My cousin Kylie, who lives in Klamath, has grown so much from the days she used to follow me around. I appreciate all the help she gives to Grandma and Grandpa.

Katelyn has always been a big help to me and treats my kids like princes. Seeing her in a different context reaffirmed how kind and helpful she truly is though. Someday I hope to be as charitable as Katelyn.

Lindsey had us laughing the whole trip. I didn't know that she was the family comedienne. She reminded us how important it is to simply be silly and the healing power of laughter.

Savannah served as the designated pharmaceutical dispenser, as per her future in the medical field. Because of her example I have successfully administered Eli ten days of amoxicillan (that never happens). I loved hearing about her summer in Italy, trying to best her at Banana Grams, and appreciated her as a co-pilot. She has probably spent more time in Klamath than any of us girls and she knew her way around, knew Grandpa's favorite doughnut, and anything else we needed to know.
I don't think I realized before this trip how much Grandma and I had in common in the way we view the world and the things we enjoy. My favorite time was spent late at night talking with her and laughing with her (mostly at Lindsey) and feeling like there wasn't two generations between us. I noticed the tender relationship she has with Grandpa, in the way she takes care of him, and in the way she kisses him good-bye in the morning. They have been together a lot of years. I see them together and hope that is the way Dave and I still are when we've been together that long.

I sure love my Grandpa Down. He has always been such a quiet but constant presence in our family. I am thankful for how many times he has made the long drive over Oregon's snow-packed roads, through the Nevada Desert, to see all the family in Utah. Now that I am a grown-up and have made the drive as the "person in charge" I am more conscious of what a sacrifice that is. My favorite moments with Grandpa were watching CNN in the morning and hearing his comments on the state of things. He doesn't seem to worry about it all that much. Despite the political conflict, the natural disasters, the flocks of birds falling from the sky in Arkansas, and the constant barrage of sensationalism Grandpa's constant calming presence reminds me that life goes on, our family goes on, as it always has, and all is going to be okay. I wish I could eloquently say all I feel for him.
Sometimes I take my extended family for granted, but I was reminded on this trip how much we really need each other, how important it is for me to learn wisdom from both my grandparents and my younger cousins. How wonderful it is that we were thrown together.

P.S. The "Steve" Gnome pictured with Savannah and Lindsey and the riverboat has my name on it when Grandma's and Grandpa's inheritance is being doled out. Seriously, I wrote my name on it. I just want that clear.

How We Spent Our Christmas Vacation

2011-01-04T16:54:00.000-08:00

Truth be told, the kiddos spent most of their Christmas break laying on the couch, watching Netflix, and taking shots of Motrin every six hours. But on the few days that everyone was feeling well, or at least well enough to leave the house we did the following:

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir with David Archuleta

On our second-to-last year having choir ticket hook-ups we saw the local American Idol prodigy. If I wasn't a fan of David A then, I am now. He has an angelic, clear voice, and he's such a cutie as well. Everything about the show was fantastic, the dancing joyous, the scenery resplendent. We met Bubba before the show for some $25.00 mac and cheese that was worth every penny.

Down Family Christmas Cabin Carouse

While the Wasatch Front was too warm for anything but rain the cabin piled up the white stuff. Aunt Katelyn provided hours of entertainment in the snow as well as apres-snow apertifs: salt and vinegar flavored crickets. Nothing Drew and Isaac hadn't tried before, but Eli decided he prefers his locusts plain.

The Wheels on Bubba's Bus Go Round and Round

At the Sullivan family Christmas Dinner, which included only a small portion of the Sullivan Family (we miss you all!), Bubba drove up in his bus and offered the non-infected grand kids a ride. Eli hadn't warmed up to Bubba yet and did his very best not to crack a smile, but once we started singing his favorite song he lost all control of his facial austerity.

Rise and Shout

Thanks to generous friends we took the whole fam-damily to BYU vs UTEP to watch Jimmer Fredette in action. The boys really enjoyed the popcorn, the soda, the sour-patch kids, the "bear" (Cosmo), the over-the-top pregame introductions, and they patiently sat through the basketball part.

Tron

We confess that Drew wasn't quite the picture of health when Dave took him and Isaac to see Tron over the break, but after a week straight in the house we didn't care. I should let one of them blog this since I wasn't there, but Dave, Drew, and Isaac give it six thumbs up, way up!

Despite days end to end spent on the sick beds, I think we all had a great holiday.

Flip Video

2010-12-25T09:16:00.000-08:00

and Drew:

Saw this day coming

2010-12-21T07:18:00.000-08:00

Drew is rummaging thru Heathers junk drawer and pulls out an old Walkman.

Drew: "Dad, what's this?"

Me: "A Walkman"

Drew: "What's it do?"

Me: "It's like an Ipod, but only it plays tapes"

Drew: "What's a tape?"

I am soooooo old.

How a Frozen Turkey Trots

2010-12-12T20:23:00.000-08:00

Back on a warm September evening, Aunt Laura and family convinced me to Turkey Trot this year, run a Thanksgiving Day 5K, my first.

I started training a week into November. I don't particularly like to run so no point starting any earlier than I had to. I downloaded The Help to help alleviate the boredom of running laps in the rec center (because I didn't want to run in the cold). I am happy to report that it wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be.

Thanksgiving week came in with a cold front. A really cold front. But the Turkey Trot was still on. None of my running relatives called to cancel, so I couldn't be the wimpy one to drop out of the race. And besides, I couldn't let those two weeks of hard, disciplined training go to waste. (There are only so many 18-hour audio books compelling enough to keep me going on the track).

Thanksgiving Morning,

-14 Degrees Fahrenheit.

That's when the irony of avoiding running in 40 degree weather hit me.

I won a prize for being the best smiler. That was just my "what was I thinking" face frozen in place. The prize should have gone to Brooklyn.

It was cold, and insane, but now I can say I have run a 5k, and I may have, in my brain-freeze state, agreed to run another one in the spring.

Hypochondria is catching

2010-11-24T07:05:00.000-08:00

Back in September Isaac's friend "broke" his arm, or was it his leg. I'm pretty sure the injury wasn't serious because Porter could be seen using the ace bandage to repel from the top of the twisty slide at recess and it only lasted a couple of days. Nevertheless he must have gotten an overindulgent amount of attention because Isaac has been trying to replicate the injury on himself for two months now.

He has wrapped every appendage in ace bandages, worn them to school, church, and play.

He has glued his toes together to simulate "webbed toes."

When Drew got his stitches a couple weeks ago (how unfair was that, he wasn't even trying) Isaac used a marker to create a giant lesion on his arm.

Eli scratched Isaac on the eye on Friday. Over the next two days it got redder and redder. I thought Isaac must be rubbing it too much--until Sunday morning when Isaac started crying pink tears. It was another Crayola inflicted injury.

That is when we put our foot down. No more crying wolf! No more fake injuries.

Sunday night as I was tucking him in he let me in on his new plan. "Tomorrow at recess I am going to run as fast as I can with my eyes closed. If I break a bone will you take me to the hospital or will my teacher?"

It is his goal to break a bone for real this week.

I am hoping that all the padding his snow suit provides him will help protect because our insurance will not cover his hopes and dreams. If not, we will be getting him stitches for Christmas to cure him of this craziness. Do doctors offices offer cosmetic stitches?

Paris--First Impressions

2010-11-07T17:43:00.000-08:00

This summer my mom, sisters, Jessica and Katelyn, and I took our first trip to Europe. It is the kind of experience that I don't feel I can do justice in a blog, and sorting through thousands of pictures for the ones that capture the adventure best is an overwhelming task. But some attempt at recording the trip is better than nothing for the memories fade fast and it is two weeks I don't want to forget.

We flew nine hours non-stop to Paris. Not being the seasoned traveler Jessica is I didn't have an eye-mask, warm fluffy socks, a full-sized blanket, and ear plugs, therefore I did not sleep.(which is why I look a little tired and Jess looks fab). We arrived at Charles de Gaulle, checked in to our airport hotel and hopped on the metro headed into the city (which is why I'm still in my traveling t-shirt, not Paris chic).

Stepping out of the subway at Notre Dame/San Michel was like stepping into a dream world. It was almost like Disneyland. From the sidewalk cafes to the architecture it seemed too perfect, too well put together to be authentic. We started out taking pictures of everything, thinking that every building must be some important place to be so adorned, but it turns out every ordinary building is simply magnificent for no extraordinary reason. We continued on from our stop to Notre Dame where we realized that everyone in the world must descend on Paris in July. We continued along the Seine, investigating chic shops, and stopping for our first genuine crepes, and my first attempt at ordering en francais.

We stumbled upon the Louvre and I still can't get over the sheer enormity of the place, or the volume of nude statuary, or the allure of iron roofs against blue skies.

The three of us who didn't sleep cramped in coach took a nap on the lawn. Jessica made friends with the locals.
Refreshed and ready for a few more miles of trekking, we took off up the Champs-Elysees, through the accoutrement of the Tour de France, under the Arc de Triomphe, and then returned back to our starting place for our first French meal, of course including escargot.

"Don't We Look Cute/Scary/Fun?"

2010-10-31T20:00:00.000-07:00

After a week of neighborhood parties, class parties, library parties, church parties, trunk-or-treating, and trick-or-treating I am ready to pack Halloween up in a box and day goodbye until next year. But not before I write the obligatory "don't we look so cute/scary/fun in our costumes" post.

Dave took on the persona of Gilderoy Lockhart for both our Hogwarts Party and ward festivities. This role did not require mush acting on his part; he has the scintillating smile for it.

I donned an old dance costume, fabricated a pair of wings from a hanger and went as a fairy, the tooth fairy Isaac says. There must not be enough of that kind of stuff around here because the boys were fascinated by a fairy in the house.

Drew is at the age when scary is the only way to go. My attempt at making him devil robes failed almost before it began. Isaac's luck must have rubbed off on us since we found some acceptable attire an hour before the Halloween carnival at Walgreens.

We've already presented Isaac in costume. After several occasions this week in Leprachaun garb Isaac decided to go trick-or-treating as Spiderman. He wore his Fighting Irish muscles under his jumpsuit. He got a lot of good use out of the costume I created so I didn't feel to bad that he ditched it. Eli went as a darling Mike Wazowski, or frog if you asked him. He loved wearing his costume because he knew where ever he wore it people would give him candy. He also insisted on carrying the camera in his little pouch up front. He thought that trick-or-treating was the coolest idea ever.

After an hour or two collecting candy in a downpour all costumes came home soaking wet. We spent the rest of the spooky night gorging on candy and watching 80's horror classic Teen Wolf.

Luck O' The Isaac

2010-10-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

Dave and I were able to convince Isaac to be a leprechaun for Halloween this year. Yeah, I know, awesome idea. He complied as long as he was able to design his own costume. Here is his rendering.

Note the "six-pack" this leprechaun is sporting.
Here is my execution of his design. Not bad if I say so myself.

I am the lucky one to have such a darling, creative boy in my life.

ZNP

2010-10-24T20:34:00.000-07:00

We have a tradition, all of two years running, of going to Zion National Park during fall break. I have been looking forward to it all year. We pulled into Springdale at about 9pm Wednesday night and set up camp. It was the most breath taking experience Thursday morning to step out into the towering red rocks when I wasn't fully aware of my surroundings moments before. It was the same feeling I had when we stepped out of the subway tunnel in Paris at Notre Dame, like Alice walking through the looking glass or Dorothy stepping into Oz. Having had a little European experience I understand better what Ken Burns meant when he compared our National Parks to the great cathedrals and palaces of Europe. And I am not surprised that at least every other person we passed on the trails spoke with a German, French, or Italian accent. Utah scenery is every bit as magnificent as anything we saw in Europe (though slightly less gilded), I take it for granted seeing it everyday.*

On this trip I think we (and by we I mean me) did much better at letting our kids enjoy the journey on our hikes, not just the destination. We spent all day on the hike to Emerald Pools, checking out the wildlife, playing in the water, climbing on rocks. Eli became our family photographer. He is responsible for the sun through the trees shot. He kept the camera in his pocket and documented every little thing he found interesting as well as all the boulders Drew scaled. Uncle Jake came with us. We are always happy to have him along keeping the boys entertained, and carrying Eli in the pack. We definitely make him work for his food and lodging.It is nice to end out the camping season with such a fun, relaxing, beautiful trip. I think I am ready to bring on the snow and the holidays with memories and anticipation of next year to keep me warm.

*I'm still going still going to blog Europe, because it was life-changing and magnificent, just as soon as my photo library recovers from my hard drive crash and I decide which of the 1000 pictures to post.

Field Trips

2010-10-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

Eli and have been chaperoning field trips this past month. The first was to Cascade Springs with Kindergarten to explore the fall foliage. Cute Gabby was our partner.

The next was with Drew's class to the Hogle Zoo. It was a beautiful fall day and most of the animals were out and active, but not the zebras which have been removed while a new habitat is built. This caused Eli to throw a tantrum of elephantine proportions. Eventually he cheered up, but he couldn't cheer up this gorilla.

How Isaac Is Feeling Today

2010-10-09T15:27:00.000-07:00

Sheesh!

2010-09-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

I suppose this could have been worse...

Squeezing It In (Part Dos)

2010-09-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

Labor Day Weekend Camping Trip 2010

We spent our weekend celebrating the American Worker by camping in Big Cottonwood Canyon.
Some highlights from our trip:
Hiking up to Lake Mary (or Mary's Lake)
Strolling around Silver Lake where Eli fell off the boardwalk into the marsh, and Drew caught a 12 inch rainbow trout with his bare hands. Yes, his bare hands. And though I have no pictures to prove it, he caught it with his BARE HANDS, as Drew told every single person he passed. And then every single person who passed us (following behind with Eli) would say, "Did you know that little boy caught his fish with his bare hands?"
On the drive away from the lake and exasperated Isaac said, "Drew, WHY do you keep telling people you caught a fish with your bear hands? You don't have bear hands?" And so Isaac learned a new word on this trip: bare=naked, or, without a fishing pole.

Hiking to Doughnut Falls with my gorgeous cousins.

Peering through the Doughnut hole

Squeezing It In (Part I)

2010-09-08T13:08:00.000-07:00

School has started and the leaves around here are changing. We have done so much this summer, but with fall fast approaching we've tried to squeeze in a few more warm weather activities.

We took advantage of the boys first Friday/half day and hiked to Stewart Falls. My boys are troopers to humor their mom. They almost never want to go out initially, but most of the time they have fun once they are there. Isaac was whining on the way up so I told him he couldn't tell me anything else he didn't like until he had told me ten things that make him happy. Hiking, mountains, and exercise were all on that list so I didn't feel so bad about making him get out.We got caught in the most perfect rainstorm, just enough to cool you off, but not enough to drench you. We made it off the mountain in time for the evening monsoon.

Every Labor Day weekend Soldier Hollow hosts the Sheepdog Trials. Since it is held right next to the school Eli and I got to watch with Drew's and Isaac's classes. The kids weren't too interested in the actual sheepdog part of it, but they loved the Splash Dog competition. Don't be surprised, Nana, if they try to get Luke and Lucy into the pool next time they come over.

Day 3

2010-08-25T07:57:00.000-07:00

We've gone down hill fast. Just 10 seconds ago Drew had his head down on the table, 10 minutes ago Heather and I were lamenting getting up to get the boys ready!

New Office

2010-08-24T21:00:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to post some pictures of my "new" office furniture. My dad has retired from white-collar work and gave me an amazing deal on his old stuff. THANKS DAD!

Check out my hot secretary! Grandpa's old JFK bust is my only decoration so far, Heather keeps calling him Jack which drives me crazy.

Should have waited until it was all cleaned up, but who knows when that would've happened.

Just need a better lock to keep out curious fingers!

First Day of School

2010-08-23T11:10:00.001-07:00

Today is the first day of school for Drew and Isaac. They both slept on our floor last night, but got up on time to make it to school. Isaac wouldn't take his backpack off after he got it on. He was soooo nervous! Eli doesn't seem to be missing them. He said bye-bye and that was that. He is so much smarter than we give him credit for (know he has Heather all to himself now).

Scout Camp

2010-07-22T22:05:00.000-07:00

Spent the first part of this week at Scout camp with 7 boys (8 if you count Casey; at least he doesn't leave his junk around camp).

Thought I'd leave some pictures for the one mother that checks this blog:

Garth spent a lot of time carving a staff. He told me he was carving his initials on one end and mine on the other. He also said he say a bear track only 1 HOUR OLD! He was so convincing I wanted to believe him.

Jeremy "acting" like he's not having fun

Jeremy did not have much success on the rope bridge

But he dominated the stick pull and tug of war

McKay had better success on the rope bridge

Jeffrey leading the charge on the stretcher relay

Trevor getting psyched for a game of poison barrel

Isaac, I mean Zach (who is just as competitive as Isaac) getting ready for the final which he won

Casey at the bat

Jonathan didn't pose for any pictures...just some video that I can't get to load!!!

So much of this summer to blog

2010-07-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

and i'm starting with isaac
who was crying because he dropped an apple on his head
so i told him about another isaac
isaac newton
who had an apple drop on his head
and discovered gravity
and now my isaac thinks that is the funniest coincidence
ever!

(i love how when you type without capitals
and without proper punctuation
blogger doesn't auto-correct
or give you green squiggly lines)

The Green Table

2010-07-01T19:34:00.000-07:00

A journey of 779 miles must be broken up. We learned the vital importance of this on the way home, but on the way to the Sullivan Family Reunion--Roswell 2010 we were smart and stopped for a couple of days at...Michelle and kids stopped with us--it was Shakayla's and Mikira's first camping trip. There were lizards, bears (that we only heard about didn't see), wild horses (that we did see), and hundreds of deer (that Chauncey, Drew, and Isaac chased with a hatchet and then told the guide during one of our cliff dwelling tours).

It was so nice to find a green spot in the barren stretch through Utah and New Mexico, and even nicer to get out of the car and hike around.

180 Pictures

2010-06-05T20:31:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I purged my camera of the latest happenings. Before I post Sullivan Family Reunion 2010 I had clear through the first 27 days of May.

Starting with:

The annual 2 hour wait for face painting at my dance studio's yearly party. Isaac requested to be made up into a volcano. I don't think the face painting artist had that one before. Drew is a tiger.

This is a testimony that God truly answers prayers as simple and inconsequential as "Please help us find that Netflix DVD."
Only revelation would have inspired us to look inside the bowels of our piano.

An FHE trip to the big city. Isaac fell in love with the Salt Lake City Library during a recent 20 minute window between doctor appointments. He had never seen so many books in his entire life, and where else can you access those books by climbing to the top of a building and then riding glass elevators to the bottom. We had to take the rest of the family to check it out as well.Then we took Trax over to Temple Square. It was heavenly! We are no longer going to drag ourselves there in December only to miss it at its most spectacular--May. Never have I had such a good dose of springtime.

On our trip Drew played the role of official tourist. Nice outfit. Did you come to Utah for the skiing?

Drew's class participated in the "Hope of America" concert as part of the Freedom Festival. He is seated on the third red stripe from the top, four red t-shirts in from the right. See him?

Plus a video for Nana. He is the twelfth flashlight from the top, six in from the right. Thanks Aunt Jessica for coming to support him, even though he was only one in a thousand, and even though the parking situation was a football game sized extravaganza. It meant a lot to him.

We rode the Heber Creeper as part of Library Storytime. Eli was an enthusiastic choo-choo-er.

Here is Drew's cake. He wanted a water cake because he had a pool party. Easy enough: blue frosting and a lego guy floating in a tube.

Stay tuned next time for Sullivan Family Reunion by way of Mesa Verde.

Happy Birthday to Drew

2010-05-23T20:19:00.000-07:00

Drew turned seven this weekend. SEVEN. Boy that seems old to me. As I was putting him to bed on his birthday eve he told me, "It sure feels weird, changing to a new age." And not just for him. He seems different to me too, from one night to the next.

Drew celebrated at a party with his friends on Friday. He had a swimming party at Aunt Cathy's pool. (Thank you Gardner Family). Seven crazy boys in a pool is like swimming with piranhas. That's why I put Dave on pool duty and I cooked the hotdogs.This growing boy has been making his 16 inch Huffy look mighty puny these days, and since he already passed it down to Isaac a new bike was on his list. He so far is relishing the responsibility of being seven and the owner of a Hot Rock. Hopefully it will last through the summer and we won't regret upgrading to a mountain bike. We look forward to him being able to keep up with us this summer on a few rides.

A snapshot of Drew at seven:

Still a night owl: we've been in his room twice so far to tell him to GO TO SLEEP ALREADY! And not a morning person at all.
He has one tooth in the front of his mouth. Looks like a hillbilly!
When he took off his shirt to get in the pool my cousin asked, "Don't boys this age eat?" referring to all the ribs poking out. Drew was skinniest of the bunch. But he can eat with the best of them. I don't know where he gets that from.
He's pretty sensitive, especially to being "corrected" by his parents.
Loves to rough house, especially loves to rough house with friends. It is a sad day when he can't have a play-date with someone.
He has grown into quite the dare devil. This surprises me since he was so conservative as a toddler. Case-in-point: On a recent ski-trip he went on a run that included a black diamond with Uncle John and Aunt Jessica. Up to this point he had only done bunny hills. He ended up riding down it on John's back. When I asked him about it he got all pouty and said, "That was only because Aunt Jessica wouldn't let me go down the way I wanted to." "Oh yeah, how was that?" "Straight down with out turning." Thank you Aunt Jessica and Uncle John for making sure Drew made it to seven.

Inaugurating the Camper

2010-05-02T14:50:00.000-07:00

During Spring break the camper saw it's first non-driveway camping experience, at least it's first with the Sullivan family. We ventured down to Southern Utah with the Summers cousins, the Gregorys, and Uncle Jake.

Goblin Valley was destination number one. What a totally crazy place. It was heaven for a bunch of climbing boys (and Jocelyn). We spent two days climbing up and hiding around the bizarre formations. We played a game of "hide the bandanna" one morning amongst the goblins, but the goblins won. If anyone ventures down there soon keep your eyes open for a blue bandanna that says "Roger's Family Reunion 2007."Back at camp we gave Drew his Spring Break haircut--a mo-hawk. We've decided he doesn't have great mo-hawk hair, but it is very conducive to a mullet. Yeah, we're from Heber.We also hiked a-ways up Little Wild Horse Canyon. Despite the awesome scenery, spectacular slots, and burying Drew and his Mo-Hawk in the sand, I forgot my camera, so I will refer you to Aunt Jessica's blog for the pictures.

Day three we headed down to Torrey, Utah and Capitol Reef National Park. I wish we had more time and energy to explore around there because it is beautiful, and Torrey is an interesting little town. We did discover sweet potato fries at Slacker's Burger Joint, and one great hike up to Hickman Bridge.
We are fans of the camper trailer. I, for one, can't wait to take it out again. I am also a fan of Jessica's rock-climbing BOB stroller, I've got to get me one of those.

High on Life

2010-04-20T20:51:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day.

I went grocery shopping by myself in the wee morning hours when the store is practically empty. (Thank you, Dave, for getting Drew off to school.)
75 degrees and sunny
I asked Isaac to do his chores and he said "Okay," and did them.
Planted some seeds in that sunny weather.
The occupational therapist declared Eli to have high cognitive function, and the ability to "intentionally project an object" (ie throw stuff) of a four-year old. Major League Baseball here we come! He's just a little speech delayed. Despite that he can also tell a knock-knock joke with the skill of a three-year old. (I will post a video tomorrow.)
I asked Drew to do his chores and he said, "Okay," and did them. Maybe I'm high on something besides life because there is no way that happened twice today. Might've been a hallucination.
Not one, not two, but THREE neighbors made too many cookies and pawned the extras off on us. If there is conspiracy in the neighborhood to fatten us up keep them coming. Mmmmm! I will reciprocate with zucchini in the fall when all those seeds I planted have grown.
As of tomorrow, the van is paid off! I cleaned it in celebration and, for once, did not find any boogers wiped on the back speakers--an indication that my almost seven-year old's cognitive function is improving as well.

The end.

Isaac's Half Decade Mark

2010-04-10T20:30:00.000-07:00

After over 150 days of counting down, yes we started before Halloween, Isaac's birthday finally arrived. I can't imagine that it met his expectations after so much hype leading up to it, but he seemed like a happy boy.

Five years is when we let our kids have their first official "friend" party. This was huge. When a couple of weeks ago Nana Down invited Isaac for a birthday movie date Isaac said, not hiding the disappointment in his voice, "Ahhh, but I wanted to have a party with my friends."

Luckily, he was able to do both. He spent the day between Easter and his birthday going to see "How to Train Your Dragon" and eating at McDonald's. His actual birthday he spent opening presents, playing his new Wii game, and being king of the world, and Wednesday was the much anticipated party.

Isaac has been on a total space kick lately. He designed his own invitations, and took those invites to 10 little friends. As we were delivering he told me, "I just can't stop smiling."For the party we played smash the giant star (pinata) to smithereens, had a rocket launch, and a relay race, blew out the candles on his solar system cake, then 13 kids mostly ran crazy in and out of our house. With all the chaos we didn't get many pictures. I am not even going to bring up the subject of Drew's birthday party to Dave, I don't think he can handle it.

There is so much to love about Isaac at this age. He is hilarious! Here is why?

He said to me this morning, "Mom, do you know what 'articulate' means? It means talking a lot. I'm articulate."
He is very concerned about eating healthy. He accompanied Dave on a recent scout camp, but had to come home for breakfast because they were having junk food for breakfast.
He spends hours and hours drawing and creating. He would much rather make something than buy it at the store. He has plans for all kinds of inventions, including robots.
He can read fairly well, has his first four articles of faith memorized, and can spell well enough that we know what he is writing. I think as parents we might get a break in first grade between Drew and Eli.
He is always smiling, and his big brown eyes just light up.
He looks up to Drew so much. It is fun to see that kind of admiration in a sibling.
He has changed his name multiple times. First it was Isiic, because "i" makes the short "i" sound not "a". He finally accepted the double "a", but then changed Sullivan to Sullivaan, because if "aa" can say "i" in Isaac, why not in Sullivan. Then he disposed of the double letters all together and changed his name to Zander David Sullivan, writing that name on his papers and insisting everyone call him that at preschool. Personally, I think Isaac, meaning "he who laughs" fits him best.

Happy Birthday Isaac! Only 360 days until you turn six!

Fun with Cousins

2010-04-03T13:28:00.000-07:00

My sister Michelle spent the night at our house with her kids. It was fun to have them here since it can be out of the way. We enjoyed showing off our tubing hill to our family from New Mexico:

Heading down the hill

Passing me, Eli, and Mikira.

Disembarking.

Eli's "Happy" Birthday

2010-03-31T20:25:00.001-07:00

Eli is the big oh-two, and Saturday was his day. I don't know that he understands birthdays enough to know it was his day, but the rest of the family had fun celebrating along with him.

Thank you to the grandparents and aunts who sent birthday wishes with money enclosed. This is what we spent it on. It has been a hit. He loves pushing people on it as much as riding it. Mom, despite being small for an adult, is too big for a toddler bike, but try telling Eli that. One of Eli's greatest abilities is getting what he wants, so I have had several rides through the house.

We ventured to the Kamas pool for our birthday activity. And then over to Summit Inn for pizza. At two years old he can put down a lot of pizza.

Eli has entered into the terrible-twos right on schedule. He did not think singing Happy Birthday was a good enough excuse to interrupt his train-playing time, no matter how anxious his older brothers were for cake. He paused his tantrum long enough to blow out the candles, he would NOT be accepting help from Isaac, but he resumed his meltdown when mom denied his request for a fourth glass of root beer. Our hosts offered to do the whole cake-thing again a couple hours later so we could get pictures when Eli was happy again, but we declined. These pictures are true to his nature so why not embrace it.

Despite his ability to throw a killer tantrum we really, really like having Eli in our family. Here are just a few reasons why:

He has confused annunciation with volume. If he has something to say and it's not getting through he immediately switches to ambulance siren decibel levels until he gets what he needs.
He loves to go anywhere with mom and dad. As soon as he notices anyone putting on their shoes, or making any indication of leaving he immediately demands SOCKS! and BOOTS! and COAT! and CAR! so he can go too.
He loves animals. It is especially cute to watch him herd the chickens by chasing them around the yard and smacking their little chicken bums.
He is actually pretty helpful (let's hope that lasts). He unloads the silverware, he takes clothes to the laundry, he takes out his diaper. Could it be possible that Dave and Heather Sullivan have produced a tidy child? Nah, the multiple glasses of milk he has dumped over his own head disprove that theory.
He loves his brothers and is anxious to be included in their fun. And if his brothers are misbehaving Eli lets them have it. He is our enforcer.
He has a formula for falling a sleep. Get Drew and Isaac in bed, say prayer, blow kisses, fill up froggy humidifier. If it is followed to a tee he will get right in bed and go to sleep. If we veer from it in the slightest, stop to change his diaper, fail to turn off the brothers' light we either have to start all over, or listen to him cry for an hour. We have said double prayers many a night.
Knock-knock jokes are his favorite: "Knock-Knock." "Who's there?" "Knock-Knock." Knock-Knock who?" "Knock-knock. Ha ha ha ha ha!"
How could you not love those big blue kewpie eyes?

Happy Birthday Eli! We think you are AWESOME.

On the 20th of March

2010-03-20T18:53:00.000-07:00

On this, the first day of Spring, the Sullivan family...

...caught up on sleep, missing since daylight savings took over,

...tried to finish off our 2009 freezer jam in anticipation of strawberry season fast-approaching,

...kiddos spent the day outside, Drew sporting long sleeves, shorts, and snow boots: clothing to match schizophrenic Spring weather,

...set up the camp trailer, made a few repairs, readied for the season ahead,

...cleaned out the gardens, a task I was too overwhelmed to do last fall,

...made a list of the yard work to be done in the coming weeks,

...chipped away the remaining ice on our walk,

...took advantage of a newly clear roof and retired the Christmas lights,

...let the chickens out of their pen, free to forage for spiders and earthworms and styrofoam; wonder what that'll do to our eggs,

...cheered on the Cougars' bid at March Madness.

Happy Spring Everyone!

Olympics- SHCS Style Pt 2

2010-03-03T21:48:00.000-08:00

The perfect combination of Soldier Hollow's Student Olympics and the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver has created monsters out of these parents. We are determined now that Drew be a Winter Olympic Athlete. I want to be one of those mothers depicted in tear-jerking Proctor and Gamble commercials; Dave wants to leave Drew alone in a cabin to find the inner-fire that will make him a champion (hey, it worked for Apolo.) Already we have started an account to save up to travel to whichever snowy locale hosts the 2022 games.

All vicarious dreams aside, this was a really fun day. The folks who run the ski program for Soldier Hollow really go all out. We have loved having this world-class venue so close. (Can you tell that my parental, community, and school pride is running really high right now?)

Because a) my son(s) are so cute, and b) we had such a good time and the pictures make me happy, I couldn't choose which ones to post. Therefore I have compiled about 20 of them, including video, into a slideshow. (Only grandparents are compelled to watch the whole thing.)

This will make the perfect human interest piece for NBC when Drew makes his appearance in the 2022 debut of Nordic Obstacle Course Skiing.

Olympics- SHCS Style Pt 1

2010-02-28T20:56:00.000-08:00

Vancouver has nothing on us. Soldier Hollow Charter School holds its own Olympics each year. The school divides into 21 country teams, learn about their country, present, and then compete in skiing events. (Most teams are made up from students in different grades, but since kindergarteners and first graders aren't too helpful in research projects they have their own teams and the parents do most of the research.)

Drew's class was Team USA-East, very convenient for this team leader mom who happens to be an American Studies major. (It's always nice to put find a way to put that degree to use.) Every Thursday night I would be up until 11 trying to get my presentation ready, such a flashback to junior high.
Here is team USA in uniform, with passports around their necks, ready to visit the other countries. Here they are getting a taste of Denmark. This is the History of the Olympics stop with a former British Olympian.It was a lot of fun.
Next post: the ski races.

When Dad is in Charge

2010-02-23T20:46:00.001-08:00

Because Heather is a regionally famous dance instructor I'm sometimes left on my own with the kids. Tonight was going just great, until about 8:40. I thought Heather was done at 8:30 so I made a necessary phone call to a client at 8:40. Even though Drew and Isaac were occupied doing other things as soon as I got on the phone they started asking me questions and demanding my attention. I quickly went into the master bedroom, lock the door, and conducted my business from my porcelain chair in the back room (not that kind of business Chuck, work-related business).

After about 10 minutes of pounding on the door and screaming they needed lotion it went quiet. After another 10 minutes I came out of the bathroom and discovered this note slid under the door:

In case you can't read it says, "To Dad Hate Drew and Isaac S.

I was actually kind of ticked off and felt they needed a lecture about how I provide for the family so they have a house to live in and food to eat blah blah blah. It seemed I made some headway because after I went to the bathroom (for real this time) I found this note:

It's from Isaac and translated I believe it says, "Isaac Sullivan I Luv U Dad" Or something, then "I Luv U Dad".

Olympaholic

2010-02-15T09:33:00.000-08:00

We have been glued to our TV this weekend, neglecting all else that needs done, and even taking our meals in the basement in front of Olympic coverage--including our Opening Ceremonies Canadian Feast, complete with Canadian cuisine: salmon from BC, wheat bread from Saskatchewan, potatoes from Prince Edward Island, and pouding chomeur from Quebec. (Okay, loosely Canadian, I don't know that any of my food actually came from Canada).

I am pretty proud of myself. I almost feel like Michelle or Jessica. I don't go all out like this very often, you know with place cards, table cloth, and geographically relevant cookery. Also, notice my Olympic Cauldron centerpiece. It put us all in the Olympic spirit, and Drew and Isaac get really excited now when they see an athlete with leaf on his or her helmet. (Thanks for the idea Danielle, and the fabulous recipes, and the fish).

So, like I said, we have been entranced by the Olympic games. Drew has on his list of things to sign him up for next year: short-track speed skating, snowboard cross, and ski jumping. I'm hoping this will distract him from wanting to be a wrestler, but after watching disaster clips I realize I'm going to have to be a lot tougher as a mom.

My favorite moments so far have been the 1500m short-track where Apolo got silver after a timely crash by the South Korean contingent, and the Nordic -combined where USA won their first medal ever in the sport and missed the gold by only .4 second. That was especially exciting because we know Johnny Spillane personally. And by "know" I mean Drew got his picture taken with him.

But my favorite moment(s) of all have been cheering for Team USA with Eli. Way to show your USA pride, son.

Holy cow! It's almost noon, and Olympic coverage is about to start again. The only thing that's going to get done today is folding laundry, because that can be done in front of the TV. (Yes, I know, total nerd alert!)

Living the Life

2010-02-10T20:23:00.000-08:00

I hate to be that person, you know the one who only blogs about all her ski trips, how we're totally tight with the US Olympic Ski Team, total party animals and all that, but hey that's who we are. (And Jessica is living the life of a sled dog, a very chic sled dog.)

Um, or at least that's what I manage to get pictures of. We've had lot's of "real life" in between, but have not documented the numerous loads of throw-uppy laundry or the hours spent on hold with Delta. If they awarded Skymiles for time spent on hold I could fly to Europe and back. (Yes, mom, you're welcome.)

What a January is Made Of

2010-01-31T18:54:00.000-08:00

Cleaning up Christmas I thought was accomplished my January 4th until I discovered today that I still had Christmas cards hanging on the kitchen wall.

Skiing with Drew, skiing with Isaac, skiing with Dave up the Roller Coaster in fresh powder and sweating like I haven't since I don't know when, skiing with fifty first and second graders playing sharks and minnows, and, on the days that skiing is not in the schedule, skiing and snowboarding virtually on the Wii. Eli didn't get to participate in any of that hilly excitement, but he did have fun on the two-story bouncy slide at the Kangaroo Zoo.
In other excitement: 1) collecting the biggest chicken egg I have ever seen, but not taking a picture because that would make me a nerd, but we all already know I am a nerd, and to blog about a giant chicken egg without a picture is even nerdier. 2) Still going strong on wearing lipstick on a regular basis; only 11 more months to go. 3) Exercising with friends and remembering when Billy Blanks was all the fitness rage--bad outfit, but still a good workout.

Still dance teacher, still room mother in Drew's class, still Isaac's once-every-three-week preschool teacher. Still singing in primary, forgetting the words to songs I know by heart, rolling my eyes when I find myself singing alone, and loving it, except, that is, when I'm singing alone.

As the month winds down, spending the weekend celebrating Andy's and my (early) magical birthday weekend (thanks for the term, Neisha). Having a birthday the day after Andy can be looked at two ways: a) like having a birthday on December 26th, by the time it rolls around every one is festivity-ed out, or b) like having a birthday on the Fourth of July, you know the fireworks aren't really for you, but it's fun to pretend like they are. I chose the latter and basked in Andy's celebration. I had my own celebration too by taking a midnight snowshoe hike underneath the brightest wolf moon in a year, scoring some great gifts (thanks everyone!) including a new camera that does not tint my pictures grayish blue, and listening to Zoom's birthday song to Heather at least as many times as Zoom's birthday song to Andy.

And looking forward to February.

Success...At Least Temporarily

2010-01-22T15:13:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned, Drew hasn't been loving to read. Usually Drew can be counted on to figure things out at his own pace, like potty training or riding his bike, so for better or worse, it was something I didn't fight through kindergarten or over the summer. But come first grade it is time to buckle down. Luckily he has a great teacher who has been giving him extra help, but as a parent I feel like a complete ditz.

Despite taking child development, reading parenting books, and church lessons about being a good mother, I've never been instructed on teaching a child to read. I don't remember learning myself, I just remember that at some point I could read. Vaguely I recall memorizing "outlaw words" and chanting "beating heart, beating heart, buh, buh, buh" but how to bridge that with literacy? Clueless. I've felt like I did the first couple of months after he was born having totally underestimated what I was in for.

For four and a half months now the battle to fill in the nightly reading calendar has been completely maddening. Since Dave would rather chip out his teeth with an ice pick than force Drew to focus on dogs on logs or whatever lame story line tends to be in most easy readers, the responsibility has been mostly mine. (That, however, has worked to my advantage as Dave has been very willing to do dishes, change diapers, and put the other two to bed while I do the dirty work. Thank you honey.) I've bribed with money, talked with librarians and teachers, sought sympathy from other moms, surfed the net for suggestions,tried to walk that fine line between pushing to hard and not pushing hard enough, etc. We're sort of figuring it out.

Tuesday Drew said to me, "I figured out I actually do like reading." And then he stayed up late into the night reading Tom Sawyer with his headlamp in bed, and we let him because we wanted to encourage voluntary recreational reading. I know this is not the end of our reading battle, but, oh, it feels good to see a little success. He may not ever become an avid book worm, but it is important that he can at least read the instructions on the back of a box of mac and cheese before I send him out into the world.

Drew, recognition that we completed December's reading calendar, and the blessed Tom Sawyer book.

Drew doing something that is a little more his style.

The Ski Instructor

2010-01-20T12:20:00.000-08:00

Saturday Drew gave me a lesson in cross-country skiing. He goes to a charter school nearby in Midway on the 2002 Olympic Nordic Ski track and skis twice a week. I had never been cross-country skiing and I think Drew enjoyed imparting his knowledge to me of something I genuinely didn't know how to do. How often does that happen for a six year old? He sounded quite expert as he helped me find my equipment, showed me how to clear out the notch on my boot, and put on my skis. He explained to me the rules of the course and how to hold my poles. He is a top-notch teacher. Having a six year old is awesome.

Nana came up and joined us in our exercise among patchy sunshine. We forgot to take any pictures of the skiing, but Drew and I took this self portrait while eating pretzels in the lodge.

Your Best Books

2010-01-14T20:02:00.000-08:00

Last year my friend Danielle wrote a post asking for everyone's top book picks. She got such a great list, so I am copying her this year. What books have you read this past year that you've enjoyed, or what books did you read years ago and have always stuck with you?

While we're talking books, does anyone have any recommendations for a first grade boy who does not like to read? I don't really blame him. Most books at his level are borrrring!

Here are few of my book recommendations from the last year:

The Book Thief and I Am the Messenger by Marcus Zusak
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman (This is juvenile fiction but still a fun book)
Mornings On Horseback, my favorite David McCullough book
The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, quite possibly my favorite work of fiction ever. Don't be surprised if I name my next son Atticus.

My list could go on. These are the ones off the top of my head. So what are your recommendations?

Sullivan Family Goals 2010

2010-01-11T18:43:00.000-08:00

Here are our resolutions for 2010. We feel a little more accountability if we've gone public with them.

Eli:

Learn to talk
Like nursery

Isaac:

Learn to eat dinner more
Learn to read harder books that I haven't read already

Drew:

Learn to do flips and land on my feet
Exercise to go rock-climbing

Mom:

Wear lipstick
Be more charitable
Go backpacking
Eat more vegetables

Dad:

Pass the CPA exam
Read Count of Monte Cristo
Shave 2 minutes off my 5k time
Not contract any diseases while out in the wilderness (uh, Dave, that's why we bought a water filter)
Love my kids a little less*
Win the Book of Mormon challenge

*Yesterday Drew was acting all pouty, or as Dave said, like a thirteen year old girl. "Why?" we asked. He answered, "Because there is too much loving in our family. We don't roughhouse enough, all we do is love."

Thanks to Our Bubba for Documenting Our Christmas

2009-12-27T20:05:00.000-08:00

After 24 consecutive days of blogging I've had a hard time working up the gusto to do our Christmas post. I didn't even have enough in me to take pictures Christmas morning. Luckily Bubba was here and took care of it.

I was kind of surprised that Drew and Isaac slept in as late as they did. When I got up Christmas morning I found Nana and Bubba up, dressed, bed made, and ready to go, but I had to wake the boys up. Isaac asked me, "Is Santa Claus going to come tonight?" I guess with all the anticipation he didn't think Christmas could truly be here.

Here is Drew checking out his loot.

Isaac modeling the "fire snake" Drew gave him.

Eli was really into opening presents. He was also excited about his new toys. I love it when they are so easy to please.

Here they are checking out our big family gift for the year--our new camping trailer (pay no attention to the dead plant in the window). It wasn't the surprise it was supposed to be though.On Christmas Eve Dave and I were outside backing it in. The boys were supposedly in bed, but I looked over to their bedroom window to see the blinds open. I sent Bubba to investigate.

"What are you doing?" he asked.

"Looking for Santa Claus," they said, "And watching Dad park our new camping trailer. Is that from Santa."

We hope you all had as fun a Christmas as we did. Happy New Year!

P.S. Pay no attention to the date on these photos. It was the 25th, not the 26th.

Twas the Night Before Christmas...

2009-12-24T22:37:00.000-08:00

...and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, except for four crazy parents trying to put the finishing touches on Christmas morning, including a blogger who is trying to get Christmas carol #25 posted before the clock strikes midnight.

Hallelujah 2 Days Left

2009-12-23T20:54:00.001-08:00

The Nativity, featuring:
A Darling Angel
A Sparkly Mary
Joseph and his scintillating smile
Two cuddly little lambs
A sleepy wiseman, a bearded wiseman, and another wiseman catching flies with his mouth
A sleepy, 15 pound baby

3 Eggs, 3 Days, 3 Ships

2009-12-22T15:37:00.000-08:00

Our chickens have finally started earning their keep. It's a good thing too because Dave was about to send them the way of the rooster. It is a little more motivating to hike out in knee deep snow to break the ice out of their water jug now that we can check for eggs. Our Christmas menu has changed to Christmas eggs instead of chicken a la king.

4 Days until the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2009-12-21T18:25:00.000-08:00

Today my sister Jessica and I took Drew and Isaac skiing--a pretty impressive feat if I do say so myself. You can imagine the looks we got when we got on the shuttle with 4 kids, 3 pairs of skis, 2 bags, a jogging stroller, and an infant seat. It was definitely risky to embark on such a venture, but we had a great time.

First Jessica took the older boys up to the bunny hill to show Isaac how it was done. Drew having skied all of three times is an expert--just ask him. (I told Isaac to be sure and listen to Aunt Jessica; she's an expert. Drew said, "Just listen to me. I'll say whatever Jessica says but in a way Isaac can understand.) I stayed with the babies. Eli entertained himself and passers by throwing snow and icicles in the river; perfect baby James slept the whole time. After a few hours we traded.

Drew is indeed becoming expert. We will need to break down and buy him a lift pass next time; he is so beyond the bunny hill. We will also need to look into getting a helmet for the speed demon. Isaac had a great time too. He got a lot of attention for his "pizza wedge" skills, I think because he looks so tiny on his skis.
Santa was also getting a run or two in before the crowds hit later this week.
After such a day we are all exhausted and barely have enough energy left to watch A Muppet Christmas Carol. Actually, I barely have enough energy, Drew and Eli are jumping on my bed and seem to have their second wind. A Christmas Carol is the only justification I can think of for the line in this song that goes, "There'll be scary ghost stories and tales of the glories of Christmas's long long ago."

5 Days To Jingle Away

2009-12-20T19:48:00.000-08:00

The Christmas concert was again an amazing success. But I do think Natalie Cole was under the weather at the time. My favorite song she sang was Holly and the Ivy. It was truly a fantastic arrangement and I had never heard the words to the song. But since that album has not been released yet I've settled for her arrangement of Jingle Bells, which is a lot of fun!

6 Marshmallow Days

2009-12-19T15:31:00.000-08:00

In order to boost Karen's credibility...

For Unto Us A Child Is Born in 7 Days

2009-12-18T19:43:00.000-08:00

12 Drummers Drumming, But Only 8 Days

2009-12-17T19:42:00.000-08:00

Monday, the boys in our family went caroling with two other families from the neighborhood (my ballroom class was performing that night so I missed out). Between the three families there were 12 boys--nary a daughter among them. Can you imagine having 12 little drummer boys showing up on your doorstep? I wish I had footage of that. You can see pictures and get a first-hand recap here.

I wish I had audio of the boys' version of Little Drummer Boy, but Neil Diamond will have to suffice. I can't think of Neil Diamond without thinking of Christmas because my mom always played his Christmas album growing up. I also can't think of Neil without thinking of Fourth of July because it is Dave's and my tradition to play "Coming to America" all day.

I have also included a really bad New Kids on the Block version because all things New Kids make me think of going to Classic Skating with the Eastridge girls over Christmas vacation wearing our short-alls over leggings and dangly earrings. I remember Suzi was the first to get roller blades for Christmas. Good times!

9 Days Left So You Gotta Be Good

2009-12-16T19:39:00.000-08:00

As I type this Eli is in his room crying. You see he's gotten in the bad habit of needing to fall asleep in our bed. When I say he I mean we. But it's time to put an end to it so he's crying himself to sleep, though 30 minutes into it there is a lot more crying going on than sleeping. Eli has mastered acting picked on. It's an important survival skill for the third son to possess. See how sad and pathetic he is when he doesn't get his way.
But tonight I'm going to be strong. I am going to put in my earphones and watch last night's SYTYCD, and pretend he is just fine, which he is, even if he is really loud. But before I do that I had better go remind him that there is only nine days until the Big Guy comes, so really he's gotta be good.

10 Days in a Winter Wonderland

2009-12-15T19:56:00.000-08:00

This has been my favorite version of Winter Wonderland for years, ever since Jessica, Andy, and I made up a dance to it for the family Christmas talent show. Unfortunately, this was in the days before YouTube so no one has posted the video. Too Bad too, because I would say that performance rivaled even the family song Dave told you all about.

11 Days and Honoring the Holy Mother

2009-12-14T20:20:00.000-08:00

Being a mother myself had given me a greater appreciation for Mary and her willingness to be the mother of Christ. I can't say it any better than this beautiful essay. Check it out.

The Things She Does for Love

2009-12-13T14:27:00.000-08:00

I suspect that Heather has really been longing to begin performing her own gigs since she's had to support me all these years. At last she is part of the band!

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For the record, Dad did not teach us the choreography he thru in; yes, I did get a totally sweet sweater to match Dad's for the next gig, and Heather got paid to do it.

I think she should get a pair of GoGo boots and become a permanent member!