Brother Estep approached me at the end of church on Sunday and said, "Dawn, the Spirit was so strong during Chandler's lesson. He did an excellent job!" I was so proud of him. As we talked about the topic he was given, "Ask and ye shall recieve" I explained to him that the most important part of preparing his lesson was to be sure the Spirit was with him. I encouraged him to pray for this before and during the preparation of his lesson and then before he delivered the lesson. After I spoke to Brother Estep I saw Chandler. He looked very confident and pleased with himself. I asked him how it went and he said that it was awsome. He said that he had never felt the Spirit so powerfully in his life before. I am so grateful for his leader - Brother Estep - who was inspired to have Chandler give this particular lesson. He has struggled with feeling the Spirit in his life. Brother Estep's words seem to penetrate Chandler and I am so excited to have a man like him in Chandlers life!!!
He was given the two scriptures that reference this topic in Matthew and the D&C. He decided to use his picture of Christ from his room that has Christ on one side of the door with no door knob. He asked the Deacons to look at the picture and figure out what was missing. He discussed with the Deacons that the door knob is missing because the door knob is on our side of the door. He went on with this idea. He then asked someone to read the scripture from Matthew and then the one from the D&C. He wrote on the board the key words in these scriptures. He then asked what does it mean to ASK? the Lord. They then talked about prayer. He then asked what does it mean to RECIEVE? from the Lord. They then talked about how one is blessed, personal revelation, and the Spirit. I attempted to help Chandler understand that in order for a person to really understand a new concept they need to SEE IT, READ IT, WRITE IT, AND FEEL IT. The concept will stick if you can accomplish this in a lesson. After the scriptures were read he told of two personal experiences in our family where we prayed for help and the Lord blessed us. The first on was when our car broke down in Iowa and we were low on money. WE prayed someone would help us and after I made a phone call to my friend I was trying to visit, a "Harley motorcyle Dude" came up and handed me a one hundred dollar bill. He told all the details of the experience. The second experience was more recent - our yard sale. It was raining but we were inspired to have it anyway and we made over $700.00. We asked and we recieved. He then read a quote from President Monson from his book Process of Perfection. Then he asked the boys to write down an experience where they asked and then recieved. They shared these experiences with each other. He then bore his testimony.
When Chandler got out of the car after church he was carrying his picture of Christ. I looked at him and said, "I bet you will keep that picture forever, huh." He said, "Yup! I will keep it until the day I die and then I will leave it to my son." So sweet!
I am so proud of the young man he is. He is an example to so many! If he continues to choose to turn himself over to the Lord he will become a fine man!
At FHE I decided to have a lesson about the Holy Ghost which just so happended to be my Primary lesson. It worked out beautifully! Then he went to a fireside that night on Missonary Work. He was able to hear Abe Christian speak - he just came home from his mission in Las Vegas, NV. Great experiences!!!!!
He was invited to give a talk in church on August 8th. The topic: "Brothers and Sisters". He said he wanted to use the talk given by Troy Dunn called "Buddy Bond". I will also speaking that same day. Chandler said, "Mom, he said I only have 5 minutes - I think I am going to have to call him and ask him for some more time." I was cracking up! More time????? Most youth would complain and say, "Do I have to do it?" But not my Chandler, he says, "Can I have more time????" Its moments like these that are so encouraging!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, July 27, 2009
Staying Local this Week - A moment to breath
This week the children and I are going to stay very close to home. I am working for Jean Bingham this week. I am watching her daughter Becky who is my age but is mentally handicap. I will be going to her house every morning at 8:00 a.m. for an hour and then returning to her home in the afternoon between 3:30 p.m - 5:00 p.m. Jean is spending a week at the Beach, something she hasnt done in over a decade. I was greatful for the work and she was grateful for the getaway. She even paid the children to water her plants and take care of her garden. So today, we made three puzzles and played several games with Becky - before and after school. She is a sweet person. The rest of the week will play out the same way. During the middle hours of the day - between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. we will go to the YMCA, go to the Library, visit several parks, and enjoy our home. I will catch up on cleaning and paperwork. Today we went to a park right outside of Jean's neighborhood and Brigham and Paigey ran around and played. Brigham asked me to help him kneel on a very low swing BACKWARds... I helped him and as I let go of him I realized he had positioned his hand so he was not able to catch himself if he started to fall. As I let go he instantly fell FLAT ON HIS FACE INTO A MUD PUDDLE. It was so sad and so funny at the same time. He laid in the puddle for a minute I wasnt sure if the wind had been knocked out of him or he was in shock. When he stood up he started to laugh - thankfully because I was having a very hard time holding back my laughter. He was MUD FROM HEAD TO TOE. His only complaint, surprisingly, was that his chin hurt. Before I put him in the car I had to disrobe him - that was tricky! When we got home he ran into the house in his boxers. FUNNY!!!
The Franklin Institute
This is a really COOL place! I could spend hours upon hours just reading.....the kids were on overdrive the entire time we were there. My favorite part of the museum was watching Brighams eyes light up with excitement. He was saturating every bit of information that passed his way. I attempted to follow him but he was just to fast for me. So...I found a spot and just watched from afar as he ran to and fro. I enjoyed Sir Issac's Loft - I think that is what it was called - because it was all about motion. I would highly recommend every family purchase a membership. I would, however, purchase your membership at the Delaware Museum of Natural History and make admission into the Franklin Institute through their reciprocal agreement. The DMNH membership is only $55.00. The Franklin Institute membership is $99.00 at the least - membership rates went up from there. Another one of my favorite moments was when Paigey and Brigham went on the SKY BIKE. This bike is elevated above the enitre population of the Institute suspended directly over the main enterance. I should have gone on the Sky Bike - I will next time. Sometimes I forget that I can experience all of the things my children experience. I have been at my post with the youngest for so many years and now....my youngest is tall enough to go on all the rides. At the end of the day we went to the Planetarium. The trip is worth revisiting over and over again!
Kilens Waterpark
We had a great time in the sun with my good friend Barb and her son Matt. I really enjoyed going down the slides with the kids - not just watching from the side lines....which has been my post for many many years. I like the blue slide the best but the kids like the green slide. The green slide is totally enclosed sooooo you go down in complete darkness. Nope, not into that! The blue slide, on the other hand, is open and you can go down in an upright position. It is slow moving and more relaxing than anything else - thats my speed - oh yeah! Much to our surprise Barb went down the blue slide as well. We all applauded her bravery as she dropped into the pool from the slide! GO BARB! Unfortunately, we did not apply sunscreen - we thought we were leathered enough- but we were wrong. It was over 90 degrees and the sun was beating on us -big time! Paigey and Brigham went across the lilly pads about hundred times and loved it. We took a picnic lunch and enjoyed the outdoors. I just love Killens because it is only $1.00 to get in - you cant beat that!!!!!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
FAMILY FUN AT JEN'S HOUSE
Tomorrow we are going to Jen's house for a day/ evening of fun with the COUSINS! We will arrive at 1:00 p.m. and stay until about midnight. They are going to the Temple and I am going to enjoy a house full of children. I love that they get to spend so much time together. Everyone gets along so well!!!! I am sure Paigey and Kristina will have a fashion show - which they absolutely love to do. The last time Paigey was there they had a themed fashion show. They presented fashions from the 80's, beach, and PJ's. It was fun to watch. Of course, they like me to commentate the entire thing. Then we will most likely have some kind of spa fun where we paint finger nails and pamper ourselves. I love to do different hair designs on each girl. The boys like to play pool, basketball, and play the Wii/ Internet. They usually find somehthing to do outside. I usually have a book time with Oliviya and Elizabeth at some point. They love to have books read to them and I love to read to them. Somewhere in there we will watch a movie and have a meal. Its always great fun and I always look forward to our time together. Most importantly, I am glad Jen and Jeff get to spend some time together alone. I know they value this time together and I always feel good because I feel like I am apart of helping them continue to have a happy marriage. They are an incredible couple and its important to me that they stay an incredible couple!
KULINARY KIDS - FUN IN THE KITCHEN
We tried two new recipes in the kitchen. Unfortunately, our Fathers Day Cheesecake did not turn out so well .... I didnt realize we needed to use a springform pan or it wouldnt turn out so well. We are definitely going to have to buy one of those before our next attempt. This time we chose FUDGE and CHOCLATE COVERED PRETZELS.
FUDGE
We used the recipe on the back of the FLUFF jar. It was sooooo yummy!!!!! We used choclate chips instead of choclate bars and it was delicious!!!
CHOCLATE COVERED PRETZELS
We used choclate chips - put them in a bowl and placed it in the microwave for 1 minute. Stirred the recipe and added the pretzels. Stirred. Then Paigey forked clusters of pretzels onto aluminum foil to dry. When the Sister Missionaries came over on Tuesday night we served vinalla ice cream with choclate covered cluster on the side. It was yummy and easy!!!!!
Our next recipe is BROWNIE PIE. Paigey will be making this next Tuesday wehen the Sister Missionaries come back for another visit. We really enjoy having them over and learning about how we can be more effective member missionaries.
FUDGE
We used the recipe on the back of the FLUFF jar. It was sooooo yummy!!!!! We used choclate chips instead of choclate bars and it was delicious!!!
CHOCLATE COVERED PRETZELS
We used choclate chips - put them in a bowl and placed it in the microwave for 1 minute. Stirred the recipe and added the pretzels. Stirred. Then Paigey forked clusters of pretzels onto aluminum foil to dry. When the Sister Missionaries came over on Tuesday night we served vinalla ice cream with choclate covered cluster on the side. It was yummy and easy!!!!!
Our next recipe is BROWNIE PIE. Paigey will be making this next Tuesday wehen the Sister Missionaries come back for another visit. We really enjoy having them over and learning about how we can be more effective member missionaries.
OPERA HOUSE - WILMINGTON, DE
The shows have begun!!!!!! We love to go to the Opera House in Wilmington every summer. They always have a great line up of performances and nothing is better than live! This year we are going just about every week from July through August. This past Tuesday was the first show. It was called "Rock and Roll Soup" and was a spin off of the story "Stone Soup". It was performed by the Wilmington Theater Leauge. It was a bit more amature"ish" than we are used to but was fun for the kids. It is great how we can expose the children to this medium for FREE. The snacks are only 50 cents and we can bring our own snacks if we want to. We will be watching the following shows this summer: The Snow Queen, The Little Mermaid, The King of Kazu, and a bunch more!!! The Opera House is a beautiful building off of Market Street. As we were walking from our parking garage I was enjoying the change of scenery. Chandler, on the other hand, said, "Mom, I dont like the city. Where are the trees? There arent any trees." Brigham on the other hand, said, "I like the city, its where my Dad lives...see, Chandler there are trees" as he points to one lone tree as we approached Market Street. Paige looked like she was in stimulation overdrive. I think the next time we go into Wilminton we will go to the Brandywine Zoo and/or the Delaware Museum of Natural History.
BEACH FUN!!!
We went to Cape Henlopen Beach for the second time this summer. It was great fun! Paigey finally went out into the water! We talked about it the night before and she said she thought she was ready to go in on her own. We left about 7:00 a.m. and picked up Courtney from our old neighborhood. We then met Jen, the cousins and a new family from Jen's Ward - the Clintons. It is always peaceful to get to the Beach early and watch the dolphins play in the water. For some reason I always see more dolphins in the morning. After applying tons of sunscreen, Courtney and Brig headed straight for the ocean. Paigey said maybe she would wait until Kristina got their to get in. Then she said, "Mom, will you go in with me?" and that is when the tears started. I decided to be tough and tell her I would go in with her but she couldnt back down when we got to the waters edge. She said, "But I am terrified." I told her not to worry that I would be right there. So....SHE DID IT! She went in. After a while she said, "Mom, this is fun!" She was jumping the waves....it was great to see her finally have fun!!! Brig jumped the waves, dug in the sand, and found sand crabs. Chandler went in the ocean a bit, read his book, and hung out with me and Jen. I went in the ocean with Oliviya and Elizabeth - it was great fun! After the beach we clean off at the bathhouse and headed home for Activity night girls. Paigey had a Pool Party and she wanted to bring Courtney. So..we ran home changed into another bathing suit and off to the cook out/ pool party. The girls had a great time!!!! I am glad she had a good friend to take with her. I know that made her feel more confident.
More Kid Concoctions
GOOEY GUNK
This one needed Borax Laundry Booster and I only had liquid Laundry Booster. It didnt work. If anyone knows where I can find Borax please email me - I've checked everywhere.
Here is the recipe anyway:
This slimy, stretchy, gooey recipe has become one of the most popular concoctions of all times.
What you will need:
SolutionA
1 c water
1 c white glue - thats about two bottles of glue
2 Tbs. liquid tempera paint or 7-10 drops food coloring
Solution B
1 1/3 c warm water
4 tsp. borax laundry booster
How to concoct it:
1. Mix ingredients in solution A together in a medium bowl.
2. In a second medium bowl, mix the ingredients in solution B together until the borax is competely dissolved.
3. Slowly pour solution A into solution B (DO NOT MIX)
4. Roll solution A around in solution B 4-5 gimes.
5. Lift solution A out of solution B and knead for 2-3 minutes
6. Store Gunk in an airtight container or platic zip bag.
Concoction tips and ideas:
Use red liquid tempera paint/food coloring to create Lava Gunk, green to create Slimy Gunk, or black to create Tar Gunk.
OATMEAL PLAY CLAY
This one always turns out great!!!!! We like to make penny/ change holders with this one. We roll the oatmeal play clay into a ball, push your thumb into the middle and work a wall around from the middle. Then when we are done we paint the change holder. It takes about 3-4 days for the paint to dry because of the ingredients in the Oatmeal Play Clay.
Oatmeal Play Clay's interesting texture provides a unique scultpting experience for kids of all ages.
What you will need:
1/2 c flour
1/2 c water
1 c oatmeal
How to concoct it:
1. Combine flour, water, and oatmeal together in a medium bowl.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour.
3. Remove Oatmeal Play Clay from the bowl and place it on a floured surface.
4. Knead dough for 3-4 minutes. Store in an airtight continer.
Concoction tips and ideas:
* Make different colors of oatmeal play clay by stirring 6-8 drops of food coloring into the dough mixture.
* Oatmeal Play Clay is the perfect dough recipe for a young child's first sculpting experience.
HAVE FUN! WE DID!
This one needed Borax Laundry Booster and I only had liquid Laundry Booster. It didnt work. If anyone knows where I can find Borax please email me - I've checked everywhere.
Here is the recipe anyway:
This slimy, stretchy, gooey recipe has become one of the most popular concoctions of all times.
What you will need:
SolutionA
1 c water
1 c white glue - thats about two bottles of glue
2 Tbs. liquid tempera paint or 7-10 drops food coloring
Solution B
1 1/3 c warm water
4 tsp. borax laundry booster
How to concoct it:
1. Mix ingredients in solution A together in a medium bowl.
2. In a second medium bowl, mix the ingredients in solution B together until the borax is competely dissolved.
3. Slowly pour solution A into solution B (DO NOT MIX)
4. Roll solution A around in solution B 4-5 gimes.
5. Lift solution A out of solution B and knead for 2-3 minutes
6. Store Gunk in an airtight container or platic zip bag.
Concoction tips and ideas:
Use red liquid tempera paint/food coloring to create Lava Gunk, green to create Slimy Gunk, or black to create Tar Gunk.
OATMEAL PLAY CLAY
This one always turns out great!!!!! We like to make penny/ change holders with this one. We roll the oatmeal play clay into a ball, push your thumb into the middle and work a wall around from the middle. Then when we are done we paint the change holder. It takes about 3-4 days for the paint to dry because of the ingredients in the Oatmeal Play Clay.
Oatmeal Play Clay's interesting texture provides a unique scultpting experience for kids of all ages.
What you will need:
1/2 c flour
1/2 c water
1 c oatmeal
How to concoct it:
1. Combine flour, water, and oatmeal together in a medium bowl.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour.
3. Remove Oatmeal Play Clay from the bowl and place it on a floured surface.
4. Knead dough for 3-4 minutes. Store in an airtight continer.
Concoction tips and ideas:
* Make different colors of oatmeal play clay by stirring 6-8 drops of food coloring into the dough mixture.
* Oatmeal Play Clay is the perfect dough recipe for a young child's first sculpting experience.
HAVE FUN! WE DID!
Friday, July 10, 2009
WHAT THE HECK DID I DO ALL WEEK WITHOUT THE KIDS?
To my surprise I was able to keep myself busy and productive for an entire week without my children. I have to admit, at first, it was a bit challenging. Thankfully, my sister, Jen, got me out early in the week and kept me moving! Thank goodness for sisters! On Monday, she invited me to go with her family to the YMCA. So after Aunt Minnie's Memorial - which will be detailed in another posting - I met up with Jen and went swimming. I love spending time with my neices and nephews. They are a joy to my life and a unexpected blessing. It makes me smile inside and out when I see them! I love how they run to hug and kiss me and want to tell me all about their life. I love my little Elizabeth - persistant, stubborn and bossy - but hiliarious all the while! She is my little butterfly - going to and fro happy as can be! She takes my hand and says, "C'mon Aunt Dawn, lets go." Most of the time I dont know where I am going but I follow - she is focused and knows right where she wants me to be and tells me exactly what I should do. Oliviya - she is as sweet as choclate. I love how she comes to me for help - its great to know that she knows that I would help her with anything she needs! She amazes me with her ability to be tolerant and patient as she interacts with others. She is an example to me. And... oh my goodness - she is a swimmer - the prettiest darn fish ever!!!! Kristina - well she is practically a teenager! Her remarks and expressions epitomize an adolescent in full swing and I just get a kick out of it. And...if you want to know anything, well, Kristina is the person to ask - she if a very talented reporter. Her attention to detail is impecible (sp?) - she will fill you in on every little detail and then put her hand on her hip as if to say, "So, what do ya think of that, huh?" I love to kid around with Kristina because for a while she'll take the bait and then she'll squint her eyes and say, "For real, Aunt Dawn?" Jen will then say, "No, Kristina, Aunt Dawn is just kidding." She'll look over at me for confirmation and I just shrug my shoulders. I gotta keep Little Ms. Smarty Pants guessing, right?!!! I just love her! And then there is my, Preston. He is the most thoughtful young man I know - he is always asking me if he can help me with something or carry my bags. I just know when I am old and crusty that Preston will be the one to come mow my lawn. He is also the most grateful young man I know - I just love to give him a present. You will never find a more grateful boy on this planet - I am telling you...that boy will say thank you 100,000 times. I feel like a million bucks when I give Preston a gift. And, heaven forbid he ever do something wrong....Preston will say he is sorry 100,000 times also! Every single one of those 100,000 "I'm sorry's" is geniue and heart felt. I just love that boy! Last but definitely not least is my sister Jen. Well, what can I say about my very best friend in the entire world. She is the most amazing person to me and I look up to her more than any other woman on the planet (other than my Mother)! I have never met a person who is good at everything they do but Jen is. She puts her mind and heart into every day she spends with her children and they love her dearly! Could a women aspire to want more than that? For me that would be enough but not Jen...she is an incredible wife as well. She is so loyal, kind, and loving -truly loving in her relationship with Jeff. I aspire to follow in her footsteps should I ever have the opportunity to marry again. Most importantly to me, she is a true friend - she is honest with me about everything, she loves me unconditionally, she is very patient with me when I need her help and she helps me be a better person. Some of my happiest moments in my life are spent with her. I will be lost when she leaves me (no, I'm not talking about dieing...I am talking about moving to UT), probably one of the greatest loses of my life!
On with my week.....I enjoyed being at the Y with Jen and the kids. Monday night Jen and I met at Appleby's for a Pow Wow of sorts. We discussed Pioneer Day, new hair cuts, life, and the Birthing Plan so I know my job when the baby comes. I look forward to that! It was great to have uninterputed conversation. I got to talk to Brigham this day also! It was great to hear his voice. He left me a couple of prank calls on my voice mail posing as a prospective customer who had rats living in his house. He is so crazy! Chandler and Paigey called this day as well. It was really great to hear from them! They sound like they are having a fabulous time - non-stop fun! Paigey cried and said she missed me. That was really hard to hear her cry! I love her so much - she is the light of my life!
On Tuesday I woke up read my scriptures and ate breakfast. I had the opportunity to work - a new customer - thanks to Jen's mother-in-law, Tricia Stobart. After I was done cleaning I met Jen and the kids at the Y again. It was an afternoon of sunbathing and swimming. Elizabeth is swimming so well. It was fun to help her. I just love that little girl! That evening I went swimming suit shopping and caught an excellent sale 50% off at Kmart. So I shopped for my family and Jen's family. Its fun to go shopping on my own.
On Wednesday I woke up read my scriptures and ate breakfast. I cleaned one of my regular customers and then went home to clean my own place. Boy was that a job - I had to clean up Chandler's stuff from Scout Camp and all the equipment from our Family Camp Out. On Thursday was our Inspection - which I have been told happens twice a year. So, I had to clean and ready the apartment for Management to come in and make sure I am not destroying the place. I am not to keen on this event but the rent is cheap so I am not complaining to loudly. I recived a call from Brig this day and a couple of Prank Calls. It was funny and disgusting at the same time! This time he posed as an old man who had, well... let your mind wander as to what a seven year old boy thinks is funny.... all over his house and he was requesting my services to clean it up. YUCK! Apparently, Brigham is working with his Dad this week and earning $5.00 a day. He is very excited about that. He told me so far he made $14.78 - I am not sure how he got to this dollar figure.
On Thursday I woke up read my scriptures and ate breakfast. I had two Window Customers and then the office to clean that night. I was very tired when I got home! I had the chance to talk with Chandler and Paigey and this time Paigey did not cry. They were excited to tell me about the submarine they went in. They saw four sunken ships and also rode on a banana boat. Chandler tells me he has tons of pictures to show me when he gets home. They also told me how they spent their $150.00- hats, t-shirts, jewlery, souvienrs, candy and of course, a deck of cards for MOM - Paigey didnt forget....I always buy a deck of cards from where ever we go. It is my traditional souvenir. I have decks of cards from all over the place. Not from Russia though, hint hint.
One thing that I have really enjoyed this week has been my calls from Idaho. My sister, Tori. She calls me and I call her several times a day. I have enjoyed our conversations and I feel like we are connecting. I like to hear about what is going on in her day and how she is feeling. I look forward to her moving back to DE! That right, Tori....D E L A W A R E....moving back....not Idaho... D E L A W A R E. Okay - I think she got the point. Its fun to talk to someone who is just starting out. It makes me reflect on when I just started out. There are so many things to figure out and understand. It can be a bit overwhelming and nerve racking! It would have been great to have an older sister helping me along the way. I hope that I can be that for Tori. More than anything, I hope that we can have the kind of friendship that she will value. I love her dearly.
Today I woke up and read my scriptures. I cleaned a former customer whose husband lost his job and had to quit on me. Its been about a year and now she is back. Unfortunately, her home reflected the neglect of that year and it was a big job. Hopefully she will sign on as a bi-weekly customer. She is a nice women and I enjoyed her friendship. Its great to see her and her family and reconnect.
Tomorrow I am going yard saleing with Jen in the morning, running errands and planning a big "Welcome Home" event for Chandler, Paigey and Brigham. They come home tomorrow and I am very excited. I have missed them very very much! I dont have any customers next week so we will play play play!!!!!!!
After my fast this past Fast Sunday, I committed myself to personal scripture study. I have enjoyed my scripture study. I look forward to organizing myself so that I can get the maximum benift from my efforts. I love the power of the Book of Mormon and how it seems to sustain you when you read its words. It feels good to keep my promise to my Heavenly Father. I am grateful for his love for me and his direction in my life.
On with my week.....I enjoyed being at the Y with Jen and the kids. Monday night Jen and I met at Appleby's for a Pow Wow of sorts. We discussed Pioneer Day, new hair cuts, life, and the Birthing Plan so I know my job when the baby comes. I look forward to that! It was great to have uninterputed conversation. I got to talk to Brigham this day also! It was great to hear his voice. He left me a couple of prank calls on my voice mail posing as a prospective customer who had rats living in his house. He is so crazy! Chandler and Paigey called this day as well. It was really great to hear from them! They sound like they are having a fabulous time - non-stop fun! Paigey cried and said she missed me. That was really hard to hear her cry! I love her so much - she is the light of my life!
On Tuesday I woke up read my scriptures and ate breakfast. I had the opportunity to work - a new customer - thanks to Jen's mother-in-law, Tricia Stobart. After I was done cleaning I met Jen and the kids at the Y again. It was an afternoon of sunbathing and swimming. Elizabeth is swimming so well. It was fun to help her. I just love that little girl! That evening I went swimming suit shopping and caught an excellent sale 50% off at Kmart. So I shopped for my family and Jen's family. Its fun to go shopping on my own.
On Wednesday I woke up read my scriptures and ate breakfast. I cleaned one of my regular customers and then went home to clean my own place. Boy was that a job - I had to clean up Chandler's stuff from Scout Camp and all the equipment from our Family Camp Out. On Thursday was our Inspection - which I have been told happens twice a year. So, I had to clean and ready the apartment for Management to come in and make sure I am not destroying the place. I am not to keen on this event but the rent is cheap so I am not complaining to loudly. I recived a call from Brig this day and a couple of Prank Calls. It was funny and disgusting at the same time! This time he posed as an old man who had, well... let your mind wander as to what a seven year old boy thinks is funny.... all over his house and he was requesting my services to clean it up. YUCK! Apparently, Brigham is working with his Dad this week and earning $5.00 a day. He is very excited about that. He told me so far he made $14.78 - I am not sure how he got to this dollar figure.
On Thursday I woke up read my scriptures and ate breakfast. I had two Window Customers and then the office to clean that night. I was very tired when I got home! I had the chance to talk with Chandler and Paigey and this time Paigey did not cry. They were excited to tell me about the submarine they went in. They saw four sunken ships and also rode on a banana boat. Chandler tells me he has tons of pictures to show me when he gets home. They also told me how they spent their $150.00- hats, t-shirts, jewlery, souvienrs, candy and of course, a deck of cards for MOM - Paigey didnt forget....I always buy a deck of cards from where ever we go. It is my traditional souvenir. I have decks of cards from all over the place. Not from Russia though, hint hint.
One thing that I have really enjoyed this week has been my calls from Idaho. My sister, Tori. She calls me and I call her several times a day. I have enjoyed our conversations and I feel like we are connecting. I like to hear about what is going on in her day and how she is feeling. I look forward to her moving back to DE! That right, Tori....D E L A W A R E....moving back....not Idaho... D E L A W A R E. Okay - I think she got the point. Its fun to talk to someone who is just starting out. It makes me reflect on when I just started out. There are so many things to figure out and understand. It can be a bit overwhelming and nerve racking! It would have been great to have an older sister helping me along the way. I hope that I can be that for Tori. More than anything, I hope that we can have the kind of friendship that she will value. I love her dearly.
Today I woke up and read my scriptures. I cleaned a former customer whose husband lost his job and had to quit on me. Its been about a year and now she is back. Unfortunately, her home reflected the neglect of that year and it was a big job. Hopefully she will sign on as a bi-weekly customer. She is a nice women and I enjoyed her friendship. Its great to see her and her family and reconnect.
Tomorrow I am going yard saleing with Jen in the morning, running errands and planning a big "Welcome Home" event for Chandler, Paigey and Brigham. They come home tomorrow and I am very excited. I have missed them very very much! I dont have any customers next week so we will play play play!!!!!!!
After my fast this past Fast Sunday, I committed myself to personal scripture study. I have enjoyed my scripture study. I look forward to organizing myself so that I can get the maximum benift from my efforts. I love the power of the Book of Mormon and how it seems to sustain you when you read its words. It feels good to keep my promise to my Heavenly Father. I am grateful for his love for me and his direction in my life.
Monday, July 6, 2009
WHAT WILL I DO??????
One week without my children! I have never done this before and it feels pretty weird!!!! Friday night they all left for their week of fun with their Dads and I watched TV, went on the internet and a got caught up on all of my emails, read the news, and went to bed much to late. Saturday I got up much to late - missed my Ward's Pancake Breakfast, called my sister about the Fourth of July picnic/ fireworks, got my food assignment, went on my blog and posted info about our trip to VA, ate cold pizza for breakfast and lunch, and watched to much TV. I finally dressed and showered at about 3:00 p.m. for the day and left to get desserts and little fireworks for my neices and nephews. I found that I did all of that so fast (because I did not have children with me) that I had extra time to come home and have a bowl of cereal (which I should have had in the morning but didnt because I did not have any milk). Again, I flipped on the TV and ate a delicious bowl of Cinnamon Life Cereal - quietly. Finally, I jumped in my car and went to Jen's house. The events of the evening are in my posting about the Fourth of July so I wont repeat them. After coming home, I watched more TV and woke up on the couch about 4:00 a.m.. and Set my alarm for 7:00 a.m. because I new Mom and Dad were Skyping me at that time. When my alarm went off I catapulted out of bed and ran to the computer - it was already ringing and their was Mom and Dad all clean and spiffy in their church clothes. I, on the other hand, was looking a bit tattered. When I saw myself on the screen it was a bit scary - Mom and Dad just laughed. I attempted to wake up but with little success! We had an AWSOME conversation about "FRONTIER TOWN" - yup, thats right folks - FRONTIER TOWN...my latest and greatest vacation idea for the kids. Did you know that it cost Dad, 35 cents to get into Frontier Town, when he was a kid????? Amazing - now it is $14.00 for an adult and $12.00 for the kids. I was floored! Apparently, it wasnt much more than 35 cents when we were kids. It was especially fun to talk to Mom and Dad because they were laughing soooooooooo much! Apparently, my picture on the web cam was delayed and my face looked pretty funny as I was talking. I am sure my hair sticking up everywhere didnt help. Anyway, after skyping with Mom and Dad I went to church. I stopped chatting with them at about 8:05 and unbelievably I got arrived on time for church which starts at 9:00 a.m.. I felt a little lost so I sat with the Ridges. I didnt know this,but Andrew Ridge had not been to church in some time and he was their that day. He was the first person to jump out of his seat and bear his testimony which brought tears flowing from my eyes. It was so heartfelt and so meaningful to me. I wish I could have jumped up and hugged him and said, "Andrew, I know exactly how you feel!" But, I restrained myself and stayed sitting quietly in my seat. I havent seen Julianna in forever either and she looked fabulous. She told me she was leaving on Wednesday to see Emily. I told her I was jealous! It was so great to just sit with them. It was fast Sunday and I fasted for some very specific things. I was so greatful to have the answer to my fast given to me over and over and over again in each meeting. During the passing of the sacrament, I pondered on the purpsoe of my fast and the thought clearly came to me, "Read your scriptures daily and you will find success.". Very personal applications were revealed to me in each of my meetings as the teachers taught their lessons. The spirit spoke very clearly to me and I am grateful for the gift of personal revelation. When I came home from church I read the Relief Society newsletter, ate a bowl of cereal (which happens to be my favorite meal when the kids are gone) and feel aleep. I think it was about 2:00 p.m. when I feel asleep and woke up at 7:00 this morning. CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? 16 HOURS OF SLEEP. I felt a little disoriented when I woke but now I feel like I could run a marathon and all I have on my agenda today is laundry, clean the house because it looks like a bomb hit it, plan my Pioneer Day activities for my children and possibly my other family members in the area, call my customers to confirm my appointments for this week, and go to my Aunt Minnies Funeral. I am definitely going to have to get better at this. Maybe I will go to the YMCA, that would be fun. Oh, I did have one visitor... the police asking for a Karrie somebody... smiling I said, "I am not Karrie sombody I am Dawn McNiel, good luck, though." He just smiled and said, "Thank you - have a nice day." He seemed to notice I was very happy he wasnt their for me. Boy, I am GLAD those days are long gone! I guess I will call my customers now and figure out how much money I will make this week. As the week progresses I will leave another post.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
The Fourth of July
This year the Fourth of July was very different for me! My children are all gone, my parents are in Russia, one of my brothers is in Utah and my youngest sister is in Idaho. I was grateful to have my sister, Jen and her family, my brother, Mark and his family and Grandma and FaFa Stobart at my Jen and Jeff's home. We ate a delicious bar-b-qued meal with deviled eggs, chips, corn on the cob, watermelon and a variety of desserts. We chatted a bit after dinner and enjoyed each others company. After dinner the children got their glow sticks and got ready for the fireworks. Thankfully, we can set up chairs right in Jen's backyard and see the beautiful display from a nearby field in Middeltown. We had fun "ooooing" and "aaahhhhing" together. This is the first time I have peacefully sat through fireworks since Paigey was about 3 years old. Paigey is terrified of loud sounds so fireworks have definitely NOT been fun for her. I have tried everything to comfort her during the fireworks but nothing works. So...I usually am inside at Jen's house or driving far away from the fireworks while Brig and Chandler stay at Jen's house. Not this time though, I watched the whole display and it was beautiful!
I remember as a little girl driving to Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop's house for a picnic style lunch/dinner. We ate ripe tomatoes from Pop-Pop's garden. We would eat peaches from his fruit trees. Pop-Pop would go down Beeson Ave to the corner deli where he would buy 6 foot long subs. There was so much meat on those subs that we couldnt possibly eat it all. Mom-Mom and Mom would pick the lunch meat off the rest of the sub and bag it up for her to take home and we would eat that lunch meat for the rest of the week. After spending time with Mom-Mom, Pop-Pop, and Grandmom-mom (who I miss dearly) we would drive to Rockford Park in the city of Wilmington - find a parking place which was always difficult - we would find a spot among the sea of people who would swarm to Wilmington for the display. We always tried to sit close to the live band who played patriotic music to the rythm of the display. The "Star Spangled Banner" would always play and my Dad would always rise and tell us to rise to our feet also. We would put our hand over our heart. That example has meant a lot to me. I wonder if they still have a live band there. I think I may go there next year. I would love to experience that again.
I love this country. I love my citizenship in the United States of America. I try not to take it for granted and attempt to impress upon my children how blessed they are to live here. My citizenship has taken on new meaning for me in these past few years as I have studied more about other cultures. This year I have been reminded again and again of my blessed life in the US as my parents email me their experiences in Russia. On Independence Day I like to reflect on the men in my family who have fought for my freedoms. I like to think about and remember their experiences in War. It is my way of deepening my gratitude and making the holiday more meaningful to me. I dont want the Fourth of July to just be a day of picnicing and watching fireworks. I want to stand up and sing the songs that remind us of what being an American is all about. I remember very vividly the many many times I saw my Dad with tears rolling down his cheeks when he would hear the song, "I'm Proud to be an American". I knew being an American ment something to him. It wasnt just a place to live. He appreciated his citizenship and it made me wonder why? It was the beginning of my personal patriotism and my personal discovery of what it meant to me to be an American. I am also proud to be an American. I feel it is so important to stress these ideals to our children. I love America! I know that I live in a choice land and that I have been given an amazing opportunity just by virtue of my citizenship. I was so proud of Chandler the other day when I overheard him talking with Brigham about War. Brig said, "Chandler arent you glad you dont have to fight in a War?" Chandler responded, "Yes, Brigham, but if I had to fight for America I would - with a blink of the eye I would fight for my country." I told him how proud of him I was for saying that. We should be willing to fight for what we believe in and not hesitate in our commitment to the Constitution and the freedoms it provides us. With all of our problems, America is still the best place on earth to live!
I remember as a little girl driving to Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop's house for a picnic style lunch/dinner. We ate ripe tomatoes from Pop-Pop's garden. We would eat peaches from his fruit trees. Pop-Pop would go down Beeson Ave to the corner deli where he would buy 6 foot long subs. There was so much meat on those subs that we couldnt possibly eat it all. Mom-Mom and Mom would pick the lunch meat off the rest of the sub and bag it up for her to take home and we would eat that lunch meat for the rest of the week. After spending time with Mom-Mom, Pop-Pop, and Grandmom-mom (who I miss dearly) we would drive to Rockford Park in the city of Wilmington - find a parking place which was always difficult - we would find a spot among the sea of people who would swarm to Wilmington for the display. We always tried to sit close to the live band who played patriotic music to the rythm of the display. The "Star Spangled Banner" would always play and my Dad would always rise and tell us to rise to our feet also. We would put our hand over our heart. That example has meant a lot to me. I wonder if they still have a live band there. I think I may go there next year. I would love to experience that again.
I love this country. I love my citizenship in the United States of America. I try not to take it for granted and attempt to impress upon my children how blessed they are to live here. My citizenship has taken on new meaning for me in these past few years as I have studied more about other cultures. This year I have been reminded again and again of my blessed life in the US as my parents email me their experiences in Russia. On Independence Day I like to reflect on the men in my family who have fought for my freedoms. I like to think about and remember their experiences in War. It is my way of deepening my gratitude and making the holiday more meaningful to me. I dont want the Fourth of July to just be a day of picnicing and watching fireworks. I want to stand up and sing the songs that remind us of what being an American is all about. I remember very vividly the many many times I saw my Dad with tears rolling down his cheeks when he would hear the song, "I'm Proud to be an American". I knew being an American ment something to him. It wasnt just a place to live. He appreciated his citizenship and it made me wonder why? It was the beginning of my personal patriotism and my personal discovery of what it meant to me to be an American. I am also proud to be an American. I feel it is so important to stress these ideals to our children. I love America! I know that I live in a choice land and that I have been given an amazing opportunity just by virtue of my citizenship. I was so proud of Chandler the other day when I overheard him talking with Brigham about War. Brig said, "Chandler arent you glad you dont have to fight in a War?" Chandler responded, "Yes, Brigham, but if I had to fight for America I would - with a blink of the eye I would fight for my country." I told him how proud of him I was for saying that. We should be willing to fight for what we believe in and not hesitate in our commitment to the Constitution and the freedoms it provides us. With all of our problems, America is still the best place on earth to live!
Friday, July 3, 2009
KOA Camping - Williamsburg, VA
We left Tuesday morning for the KOA Campground and arrived Tuesday afternoon. It took us an extra 45 minutes because of traffic but while in traffic we saw license plates from all over the US. It was fun - we found about thirty different plates. The list is in the car and when I finally get up the energy to unpack I will list them on a seperate posting.
We immediately unpacked and found our bathing suits. The 1st pool we visited was small but satisfying! Boy, were we hot!!! Our little Ford Escort has no air conditioning so we were very wind blown by the time we arrived! After cooling off we walked around the grounds and then planned out our days. That evening was Karoke night/ Pool party at the 2nd pool so we made our way over to the other pool. This was a larger pool with nicer facilities. Before the Karoke we wanted to try out the Jumping Pillow. This was a gigantic trampoline type of bubble that was kept up with air pressure - around the "jumping pillow" was a ton of sand for the kids to play in as well. Paige and Brig loved it! After they worked themselves into a sweat we went for a dip in the "big" pool. It was funny to watch all the children and some adults sing with the Karoke machine! I convinced Paigey to sing a Hannah Montana song with my help and it was fun! Paigey didnt like it so much but I could have grabbed that microphone and sang all night long! I asked Brig if he wanted to sing a song and he said, "No, Mom, I would get to nervous and then my pits would get wet!" I said, "What?" He said, "Yup, my pits would get wet." I said, "Yuck!" and then started laughing and laughing - what a funny thing for a 7 year old to say! Just outside of the pool there were bikes you could borrow for a 1/2 hour at a time. There were two different kinds of bikes - four wheeler bikes and bikes you steer with your feet. Paigey and Brig only got a few minutes to do this before they closed for the evening. We went back to our campsite where we started a small fire and roasted marshmellows and ate s'mores. We all slept well that night.
Brigham slept on the bottom bunk, Paigey on the top and I slept on the double bed beside them. Paigey was very careful to inspect the entire cabin for bugs, spider webs, spiders, and dust in general. She took the broom and swept all the walls and ceiling next to where she was going to sleep. Brigham kept telling her it would be just fine but she wanted to be extra sure.
Wednesday morning we woke up and walked over to the pavillion to make tye-dyed shirts. Paigey made one with pink, purple, green and blue. Brig made one with purple, blue and green and I made one with pink only. We made one for Chandler that was green. We decided we would wear our tye-dyed shirts the last day (when we went to pick up Chandler) and surprise Chandler with one for him also. It was fun seeing how you tye-dye a shirt - I have never done that before. We then went swimming again! After swimming we went to the game room and played some air hockey and pool. The kids played a few video games. WE went back to the cabin to cook our lunch/ dinner and try out a few campfire reciepes we chose before the campout. We tried campfire french fries. Brig and Paigey rated these a 9. Here is the recipe:
4 whole potatoes - slice
parmesan cheese
salt
pepper
butter
Slice potatoes on shiny side of foil, sprinkle generously with parmesan cheese, salt and pepper, place several slices of butter and cover. Leave in coals for 30-40 minutes.
We found it would have been best to double the foil.
We also tried crescent rolls in the fire but something went very wrong with these. I think we were suppose to use dowels to cook them on not our hot dog pokers.
After dinner we went to the outdoor theater in the forest for an outdoor movie. The movie they were showing was "Open Season". I hadnt seen the movie but Brig and Paige had. They did not mind seeing it again though. It was a beautiful night - the breeze was blowing and the leaves were moving gently. As Brig and Paigey cuddled up close to me during the movie I looked at each of them and thought about how blessed I was to have such wonderful children. I thought about how I wished I could give them so much more and how they deserved so much more. Sometimes when we go on vacations together I watch the other families and think about how it would be if they could have a Mom and a Dad with them. Brig has often said to me that he wishes his Dad could be with us and we could all be together. This is probably the most challenging part of each of my vacations with my children. I attempt to gently tell them I am glad they tell me how they feel and that I wish it could be different also. I also attempt to help them understand that our family unit is filled with love and I am grateful for each one of them in my life! After we watched the movie and nibbled on some snacks we went back to the cabin. EAch night we decided we would play cards. One of my favorite souvenirs is a deck of cards. I brought my Williamsburg cards with us and I bought some KOA cards when we checked in. We played "Kings Corners", read our scriptures and then went to bed.
Thursday morning we woke up and went to the pavillion where they were doing another art and craft. This time they made bead necklaces and bracelets. Paigey made a fourth of july necklace - all red, white and blue and a braclet. Brig made a camo bracelet. Then we tried to make another recipe "Breakfast donuts" over the fire and this bombed! So...we ate Krispy Kreme donuts and poptarts. Then we took a trip to Walmart where we bought a few pool toys/ equipment. Brig chose flippers, snorkel, and a mask. Paigey chose a mask, diving rings, and a beach ball. They were excited to try out their new equipment so off we went to the pool again. It was a ton of fun - throwing the balls and frisbees we bought back and forth. We made up all sorts of games! Paigey liked diving for the rings and Brig like how fast he could go in his flippers. Of course, we took breaks going on the "jumping pillow" and bike riding. While bike riding Brig kept trying to beat me up this hill. He kept yelling, "I wont let a women beat me!" Boy, did he sound like his Dad! So...I had to beat him. He might as well learn young - right?
There was a ping pong table right beside the pool so Brig and I played for a while then Paigey and I played. Brig is a lot better than he used to be! He almost always got the ball. Paigey got a little better too - she just has to learn to "tap" the ball not "wack" the ball. The ball kept going into the pool, into the woods and off into the parking lot. She kept trying though. I just love ping pong and miss our table in the garage! Then we played life-sized chess. Brig is a very good chess player. He is a "thinker". He will definitely take his time and make just the right move. I have learned how to be a better chess player from teaching and watching him play the game. At this age though, he has not learned how to win or loose gracefully so... if he is loosing (which he was) he just quits the game. Or nonchalantly says, "I am getting bored" and stops playing.
Thursday evening was a fun evening - we went to an Ice Cream Social where the kids got free ice cream and then we watch a "Skit Show". I just love skit shows - I think every campout should have a skit show! It was HILIARIOUS! The kids rolled laughing! The "Sunshinners" put on the skits - they are a group of college students who are apart of a Christian Ministry and live on the ground of the KOA during the summer months. After the show we went back to camp, showered, had a HUGE campfire, ate s'mores until we thought we would be sick, sang our traditional campfire songs, "I'm a Nut", "I Wish I Were A Bar of Soap", "NOah", "Boom Boom" and many many others. We also sang these songs on the way to camp which was fun! We told our traditional campfire stories and we threw in a new one about "Hugh Williams". We also told our traditional campfire jokes "Knock Knock" which are fun. In fact, Paigey practically pushed me on the stage at the show because they asked for volunteers to tell jokes. So...I went on stage and told our "Bunny Episode" knock knock jokes, our "Misquito Episode" knock knock jokes, and our "President Episode" knock knock jokes. It was funny. I am a sucker for the microphone and the spotlight so she didnt have to push that hard.
All in all it was a relaxing, fun and well deserved respite from ordinary life. Most importantly, I felt like I re-connected with my children. We were able to really look into each others eyes and talk, enjoy and laugh. I love those moments when you know the love you give and the love you recieve is completely reciporcal (sp?). It is a moment you wish you could hold on to forever.
Friday morning we woke up and packed up. We arrived at Chandler's campsite at Boy Scout Camp at about 7:30 a.m. I found him wearing the exact same outfit he was wearing when I left him Monday morning which concerned me a bit. His leaders said he did change a few times - I guess thats okay. We were all happy to see Chandler - we missed him a lot. In fact, I asked Brig and Paigey to rate the vacation from 1 -10 and they both said a 9 because Chandler was not there. We later told him that. We gave him the tye-dyed shirt we made for him. His leaders said that I had a fine son - which I was so relieved to hear. Chandler took his own tent to share with two of the deacons. We have been working on him knowing how to put it up and take it down on his own for the last several years. He finally got it this year! His leaders did not have to help him at all. I was proud of him. When Chandler got in the car he did not stop talking for about two hours - that right - TWO HOURS! He was so excited about the friendships he had made and the relationships he now had with his leaders. He told us about all the funny things that happened and all the disgusting things that happened. We also told him about our adventures and fun! It was a great exchange of great experiences. I was so glad that I had made the 10 hour round trip car ride to Virigina to give Chandler this experience. I am grateful to my Heavely Father who saw to it to keep our little car going for that trip - its about to take its last breath. I know this car is running on faith and without it Chandler could not have had this very positive experience.
After about three hours, we made our final stop at the Washington D.C. Temple. Brig and Chandler had fallen asleep and the car was quiet. As we came up the Beltway the temple popped out of the trees as magnificent as ever! I shook everyone awake and said, "Look its the Temple!" As we rounded the bend and entered the gates of the Temple we began to sing, "I love to See the Temple". We got out and entered the temple, used the bathroom, and went down to Beehive Clothing to make a few purchases. We walked over to where Chandler had entered the temple - the doors of the Baptismal Font. Chandler told Brig and Paigey about how he felt that day and told Paigey it would only be 2 years before she would be able to do Baptisms with him. Paigey said she wanted her own white dress when she entered the temple. We walked over to wear Brides and Grooms sit to take pictures on the side of the temple and sat down. I told them that someday they would sit there with there eternal companion. As we rounded the back side of the temple I asked them to each look up. It was an amazing sight - I asked them to each commit to staying on the straight and narrow, obeying the commandments and repenting of their daily sins, so they could one day enter the temple before they go on their missions. I told them that it was very important to commit now and to stay committed so that when temptation comes and it will surely come, that they will know why they are resisting that temptation. In their minds eye they needed to keep the picture of the temple close. I asked each on of them to commit and each one of them said they committed to staying clean and pure before the Lord so they could also go in the Temple. Then the questions started coming. Chandler wanted to know if I was sealed to his Dad. He also wanted to know if he was sealed to me. Brigham wanted to know the same. Thankfully, the spirit spoke the words I should say. I said, "Chandler if we live righteous lives Heavenly Father will all make it right." I told him how there are no single parents in heaven - in the Celestial Kingdom. In order for us to be an eternal unit there has to be a Mom and a Dad. It is a very complicated question for our family and I will have to pray and ponder on the subject. The question will come again I am sure, so when it does I will be ready with the information they need to know. It is important that they realize that even though we have a broken family here on earth it wont always be that we as long as we live righteous lives Heavenly Family will provide us with a complete eternal unit. He asked me when I went into the Temple for the first time - I told him it was only 8 years ago. He then quickly did the Math and said, "That was after I was born, right?" I said, "Yes". I will have to further explain myself at some point. As we came up the long steps to the top front door to the temple again, Chandler saw his former Young Mens Leader - Brother Hess. It was good for Chandler to see him there. Paigey saw a Bride that just came out of the temple and was taking pictures. We then went into the visitor center. I told the children that I really felt the spirit when I listened to the stories of the Book of Mormon in the visitor center. I asked them if they did as well. They all said, "yes". Chandler said he felt the spirit the most when he was inside the Temple. His tone was so sincere. It was evident to me that he knew what he was feeling and I was glad to hear him verbalize it. I am so grateful that Heavenly Father made it possible for Chandler to do Baptisms a few days after he was 12. He was in the right place at the right time. Brigham and Paige were just soaking it all in. I need to go more often with them. I need to commit to going at least 4 times a year as a family.
It was a great ending to a fun-filled week!!!!
We immediately unpacked and found our bathing suits. The 1st pool we visited was small but satisfying! Boy, were we hot!!! Our little Ford Escort has no air conditioning so we were very wind blown by the time we arrived! After cooling off we walked around the grounds and then planned out our days. That evening was Karoke night/ Pool party at the 2nd pool so we made our way over to the other pool. This was a larger pool with nicer facilities. Before the Karoke we wanted to try out the Jumping Pillow. This was a gigantic trampoline type of bubble that was kept up with air pressure - around the "jumping pillow" was a ton of sand for the kids to play in as well. Paige and Brig loved it! After they worked themselves into a sweat we went for a dip in the "big" pool. It was funny to watch all the children and some adults sing with the Karoke machine! I convinced Paigey to sing a Hannah Montana song with my help and it was fun! Paigey didnt like it so much but I could have grabbed that microphone and sang all night long! I asked Brig if he wanted to sing a song and he said, "No, Mom, I would get to nervous and then my pits would get wet!" I said, "What?" He said, "Yup, my pits would get wet." I said, "Yuck!" and then started laughing and laughing - what a funny thing for a 7 year old to say! Just outside of the pool there were bikes you could borrow for a 1/2 hour at a time. There were two different kinds of bikes - four wheeler bikes and bikes you steer with your feet. Paigey and Brig only got a few minutes to do this before they closed for the evening. We went back to our campsite where we started a small fire and roasted marshmellows and ate s'mores. We all slept well that night.
Brigham slept on the bottom bunk, Paigey on the top and I slept on the double bed beside them. Paigey was very careful to inspect the entire cabin for bugs, spider webs, spiders, and dust in general. She took the broom and swept all the walls and ceiling next to where she was going to sleep. Brigham kept telling her it would be just fine but she wanted to be extra sure.
Wednesday morning we woke up and walked over to the pavillion to make tye-dyed shirts. Paigey made one with pink, purple, green and blue. Brig made one with purple, blue and green and I made one with pink only. We made one for Chandler that was green. We decided we would wear our tye-dyed shirts the last day (when we went to pick up Chandler) and surprise Chandler with one for him also. It was fun seeing how you tye-dye a shirt - I have never done that before. We then went swimming again! After swimming we went to the game room and played some air hockey and pool. The kids played a few video games. WE went back to the cabin to cook our lunch/ dinner and try out a few campfire reciepes we chose before the campout. We tried campfire french fries. Brig and Paigey rated these a 9. Here is the recipe:
4 whole potatoes - slice
parmesan cheese
salt
pepper
butter
Slice potatoes on shiny side of foil, sprinkle generously with parmesan cheese, salt and pepper, place several slices of butter and cover. Leave in coals for 30-40 minutes.
We found it would have been best to double the foil.
We also tried crescent rolls in the fire but something went very wrong with these. I think we were suppose to use dowels to cook them on not our hot dog pokers.
After dinner we went to the outdoor theater in the forest for an outdoor movie. The movie they were showing was "Open Season". I hadnt seen the movie but Brig and Paige had. They did not mind seeing it again though. It was a beautiful night - the breeze was blowing and the leaves were moving gently. As Brig and Paigey cuddled up close to me during the movie I looked at each of them and thought about how blessed I was to have such wonderful children. I thought about how I wished I could give them so much more and how they deserved so much more. Sometimes when we go on vacations together I watch the other families and think about how it would be if they could have a Mom and a Dad with them. Brig has often said to me that he wishes his Dad could be with us and we could all be together. This is probably the most challenging part of each of my vacations with my children. I attempt to gently tell them I am glad they tell me how they feel and that I wish it could be different also. I also attempt to help them understand that our family unit is filled with love and I am grateful for each one of them in my life! After we watched the movie and nibbled on some snacks we went back to the cabin. EAch night we decided we would play cards. One of my favorite souvenirs is a deck of cards. I brought my Williamsburg cards with us and I bought some KOA cards when we checked in. We played "Kings Corners", read our scriptures and then went to bed.
Thursday morning we woke up and went to the pavillion where they were doing another art and craft. This time they made bead necklaces and bracelets. Paigey made a fourth of july necklace - all red, white and blue and a braclet. Brig made a camo bracelet. Then we tried to make another recipe "Breakfast donuts" over the fire and this bombed! So...we ate Krispy Kreme donuts and poptarts. Then we took a trip to Walmart where we bought a few pool toys/ equipment. Brig chose flippers, snorkel, and a mask. Paigey chose a mask, diving rings, and a beach ball. They were excited to try out their new equipment so off we went to the pool again. It was a ton of fun - throwing the balls and frisbees we bought back and forth. We made up all sorts of games! Paigey liked diving for the rings and Brig like how fast he could go in his flippers. Of course, we took breaks going on the "jumping pillow" and bike riding. While bike riding Brig kept trying to beat me up this hill. He kept yelling, "I wont let a women beat me!" Boy, did he sound like his Dad! So...I had to beat him. He might as well learn young - right?
There was a ping pong table right beside the pool so Brig and I played for a while then Paigey and I played. Brig is a lot better than he used to be! He almost always got the ball. Paigey got a little better too - she just has to learn to "tap" the ball not "wack" the ball. The ball kept going into the pool, into the woods and off into the parking lot. She kept trying though. I just love ping pong and miss our table in the garage! Then we played life-sized chess. Brig is a very good chess player. He is a "thinker". He will definitely take his time and make just the right move. I have learned how to be a better chess player from teaching and watching him play the game. At this age though, he has not learned how to win or loose gracefully so... if he is loosing (which he was) he just quits the game. Or nonchalantly says, "I am getting bored" and stops playing.
Thursday evening was a fun evening - we went to an Ice Cream Social where the kids got free ice cream and then we watch a "Skit Show". I just love skit shows - I think every campout should have a skit show! It was HILIARIOUS! The kids rolled laughing! The "Sunshinners" put on the skits - they are a group of college students who are apart of a Christian Ministry and live on the ground of the KOA during the summer months. After the show we went back to camp, showered, had a HUGE campfire, ate s'mores until we thought we would be sick, sang our traditional campfire songs, "I'm a Nut", "I Wish I Were A Bar of Soap", "NOah", "Boom Boom" and many many others. We also sang these songs on the way to camp which was fun! We told our traditional campfire stories and we threw in a new one about "Hugh Williams". We also told our traditional campfire jokes "Knock Knock" which are fun. In fact, Paigey practically pushed me on the stage at the show because they asked for volunteers to tell jokes. So...I went on stage and told our "Bunny Episode" knock knock jokes, our "Misquito Episode" knock knock jokes, and our "President Episode" knock knock jokes. It was funny. I am a sucker for the microphone and the spotlight so she didnt have to push that hard.
All in all it was a relaxing, fun and well deserved respite from ordinary life. Most importantly, I felt like I re-connected with my children. We were able to really look into each others eyes and talk, enjoy and laugh. I love those moments when you know the love you give and the love you recieve is completely reciporcal (sp?). It is a moment you wish you could hold on to forever.
Friday morning we woke up and packed up. We arrived at Chandler's campsite at Boy Scout Camp at about 7:30 a.m. I found him wearing the exact same outfit he was wearing when I left him Monday morning which concerned me a bit. His leaders said he did change a few times - I guess thats okay. We were all happy to see Chandler - we missed him a lot. In fact, I asked Brig and Paigey to rate the vacation from 1 -10 and they both said a 9 because Chandler was not there. We later told him that. We gave him the tye-dyed shirt we made for him. His leaders said that I had a fine son - which I was so relieved to hear. Chandler took his own tent to share with two of the deacons. We have been working on him knowing how to put it up and take it down on his own for the last several years. He finally got it this year! His leaders did not have to help him at all. I was proud of him. When Chandler got in the car he did not stop talking for about two hours - that right - TWO HOURS! He was so excited about the friendships he had made and the relationships he now had with his leaders. He told us about all the funny things that happened and all the disgusting things that happened. We also told him about our adventures and fun! It was a great exchange of great experiences. I was so glad that I had made the 10 hour round trip car ride to Virigina to give Chandler this experience. I am grateful to my Heavely Father who saw to it to keep our little car going for that trip - its about to take its last breath. I know this car is running on faith and without it Chandler could not have had this very positive experience.
After about three hours, we made our final stop at the Washington D.C. Temple. Brig and Chandler had fallen asleep and the car was quiet. As we came up the Beltway the temple popped out of the trees as magnificent as ever! I shook everyone awake and said, "Look its the Temple!" As we rounded the bend and entered the gates of the Temple we began to sing, "I love to See the Temple". We got out and entered the temple, used the bathroom, and went down to Beehive Clothing to make a few purchases. We walked over to where Chandler had entered the temple - the doors of the Baptismal Font. Chandler told Brig and Paigey about how he felt that day and told Paigey it would only be 2 years before she would be able to do Baptisms with him. Paigey said she wanted her own white dress when she entered the temple. We walked over to wear Brides and Grooms sit to take pictures on the side of the temple and sat down. I told them that someday they would sit there with there eternal companion. As we rounded the back side of the temple I asked them to each look up. It was an amazing sight - I asked them to each commit to staying on the straight and narrow, obeying the commandments and repenting of their daily sins, so they could one day enter the temple before they go on their missions. I told them that it was very important to commit now and to stay committed so that when temptation comes and it will surely come, that they will know why they are resisting that temptation. In their minds eye they needed to keep the picture of the temple close. I asked each on of them to commit and each one of them said they committed to staying clean and pure before the Lord so they could also go in the Temple. Then the questions started coming. Chandler wanted to know if I was sealed to his Dad. He also wanted to know if he was sealed to me. Brigham wanted to know the same. Thankfully, the spirit spoke the words I should say. I said, "Chandler if we live righteous lives Heavenly Father will all make it right." I told him how there are no single parents in heaven - in the Celestial Kingdom. In order for us to be an eternal unit there has to be a Mom and a Dad. It is a very complicated question for our family and I will have to pray and ponder on the subject. The question will come again I am sure, so when it does I will be ready with the information they need to know. It is important that they realize that even though we have a broken family here on earth it wont always be that we as long as we live righteous lives Heavenly Family will provide us with a complete eternal unit. He asked me when I went into the Temple for the first time - I told him it was only 8 years ago. He then quickly did the Math and said, "That was after I was born, right?" I said, "Yes". I will have to further explain myself at some point. As we came up the long steps to the top front door to the temple again, Chandler saw his former Young Mens Leader - Brother Hess. It was good for Chandler to see him there. Paigey saw a Bride that just came out of the temple and was taking pictures. We then went into the visitor center. I told the children that I really felt the spirit when I listened to the stories of the Book of Mormon in the visitor center. I asked them if they did as well. They all said, "yes". Chandler said he felt the spirit the most when he was inside the Temple. His tone was so sincere. It was evident to me that he knew what he was feeling and I was glad to hear him verbalize it. I am so grateful that Heavenly Father made it possible for Chandler to do Baptisms a few days after he was 12. He was in the right place at the right time. Brigham and Paige were just soaking it all in. I need to go more often with them. I need to commit to going at least 4 times a year as a family.
It was a great ending to a fun-filled week!!!!
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