BOO!

scared you, didn't I?! I'm certain most of you had written me off until 2009. That HAS been the standard pace here on Anyhoodle as of late...what, one post every 3 or 4 weeks? Well, you know me. Set the standard disgustingly low so as never to disappoint.
mission accomplished, I'd say:)


The pictures in the collage?
piano recital for W and G (with a special guest duet-ist:). They did FABULOUSLY although will introduced his songs with his back to the audience and REFUSED to bow afterwards. He's not an attention hog. He must be adopted.

Libby trying to cop a squat on her mini "puckin' " (pumpkin). (old picture...recently discovered. We are not still on Halloween over here....I'm slow but not stupid).

W and L snuggling up to watch cartoons. I LOOOOOVE having kids off track. LOVE it. Now I get informed when libby is eating straw or drawing on herself. She's a regular circus act these days. wow.

The center picture? well, that's my adorably ridiculous husband at a friend's Halloween party. He INSISTED on driving to the event in full teletubby regalia. Ears and mittens. We got some looks. I'll leave it at that. I was Po. (the red one) but opted not to be pictured here on anyhoodle today. See that? I'm not such an attention hog. I can share.


just thought I'd give a little verbal LOVE to J today. He's amazing. Anyone who knows us, knows that he is the comedian in this joint. He's hysterical. He's THE hardest working man I know. He's self deprecating. Completely willing to look like a fool for a laugh. He's sensitive and spiritual in private. He's adored and loved. Just ask his kids. Thanks for, well, everything babe. I love you.

you snooze you loose. picture has been removed:)

(the man has utterly no shame. That's why I love him:)

wow. it's freaking DECEMBER!

Why hello there. Don't you look lovely?! I must do a recap, even if it benefits no one but me.

The short(ish) list:

Pleasure drive up the canyon to see the snow. Or dirt and mud, as it were.

Grace's turns the big 8! Celebrates with HSM3, McDonald's for breakfast, balloons, birthday dress and strep throat. yay.

Parent teacher conferences. No delinquents (yet). yay.

Jeff taking a week off. MIRACLE!

Twilight with Jeff. Two thumbs up. Edward poster will make an encore performance.

Put up Christmas decor a whole week early! Awesome. New house. Same stuff.

Furnace goes out. Repairman comes...CLIMBS OUT the basement window, finds the vent covered by JEFF'S bbq, moves said bbq one foot to the right, collects his just dues, and departs.

Brined a KICK-A turkey-(after making a strong friend rip the still frozen neck out. nasty business, turkey cleaning.)

Thanksgiving with the H fam. GOODNESS galore.

H family game night.

D family game night.

Rediscovered my love of hand and foot. (the card game, not the horse disease.) CAN'T GET ENOUGH.

Dermatologist appts. (Me and Libby).

Kid's wrestling. Will yelling out at libby who just sat on his stomach..."libby...you just broke my arthitis!" nice.

Good friend's bday dinner.

H sister's back on tour. (well, if one Sac. meeting makes a "tour" we're THERE:)

Turkey creation MASTERPIECE- grace and Jeff.

Can't find good book.

Secret life bees (the movie)- THOROUGHLY enjoyed. Not one tear shed. per usual.

Throw-in a few MIND BLOWINGLY ORNERY days and I think we've GOT A WRAP!!!

The last 5 minutes...

...in the life of clutzy-A gumby fingers:

Cook lean cuisine in microwave.

(eat 2 frozen snack size snickers and cheese nips in the interim)

Remove lean cuisine from microwave.

Take off steamy plastic cover.

Drop steamy squash ravioli and vegetable blend all down right pant leg, (well, SWEAT-leg if honesty matters), into blue nike flip flop (still on foot), down the side of the cabinet and onto floor.

Grab camera that is inches away from fingertips to capture for blog.

camera takes a terrifying 4 ft. free fall to the cold stone floor below.

Camera manages a strange and frightening squeeking/clicky sound and gives up the ghost.

Eat lean cuisine off the kitchen floor. (with a fork...I'm nothing if not civilized!)

and another snickers.

today is awesome.

Mish Mash

Bear with me people. I've been a naughty, naughty blogger. If my goal in blogging was to document D family life, and to keep friends and family abreast (oh, what FUN that word is!) of our activities I'd be getting a big fat F. for FAIL. F for FOR REAL? This post will be my attempt to catch up. I shall give you the blow by blow in no particular order.

First off...

Cabo San Lucas cruise, cliff notes version:

complete and total gluttony
FOUR books read (by moi)
TWO books read by the Mr. (miracle!!)
beautiful views
awesome private patio
unhealthy amounts of SLEEP
vast amounts of beautifying products confiscated in San Diego airport, everything short of a personal cavity search.
dirty, nasty, annoyed-beyond-belief looks from airport security
mexico is STILL mexico. (ie...DUMP, DIVE, HOLE...albeit gorgeous in places)
little nino's selling chicklets, and big ninos whispering in my ear..."do you wanna get high?"
Why NO, kind stinky sir. I prefer my own NATURAL high. gracias. (and, I prefer to roll my own................. I JEST!!!)



First snow of the season:

ecstatic children
wrestling on the tramp
snowman building (why, you may be asking did they choose an orange soccer cone for the body appendages ? artistic liberty people. ARTISTIC LIBERTY!
Libby dying to stay outside but TICKED that her hands kept getting cold.
hot chocolate WITH marshmallows (and the fabulous cocoa motion...thanks sister K:)

...and a big bubble-y bubble bath on a cold off track day. just for kicks:)


okay. enough for now. off to eat breakfast and do the same darn thing I did yesterday. and the day before.

NOTHING:)

It's time

This is a revolutionary time in American politics. I feel as though I've been silent for far too long. Those who know me know I have a deep and annoying love of politics and country. That is why I feel moved to finally share my views here in this public forum.

These are the two causes that are nearest and dearest to my heart at this juncture.

please use your vote wisely on Nov. 4th. There ARE some causes still worth fighting for.


thank you, and good day.

For Sale...

A 2003 silver limited Toyota Sequoia.
*Mint condition*.
Broadway musical CD's, diapers and tampons in center console negotiable.
All reasonable offers will be considered.
For further info call:

1-800-634-3468
(1800-me-idiot)

* exceptions*

power steering: shot
power windows: not a chance
gas gage: gonzo
radio: keep dreaming (who needs it?)
cd player: fried
alarm system: jacked up
horn: honks whenever the H it feels like it. told you you didn't need the radio.
locks: overrated
battery: sparking and smoking

cause of these few minor exceptions?

Well intended operator of said vehicle tried to "jump" it solo.
And crossed the cables... positive-to negative/negative to positive.


oops.

I had a zit...

...on my chin last week that was so big it actually became a speech impediment.



It's fugly stepsister just made it's debut right in between my eyes.





just thought you should know.

Bambinos

Kids. kids. kids, oh and more kids.
I eat, drink, sleep and dream KIDS as of late. Okay, kids and politics if I'm being honest.

Wiping butts, snotty faces, bad dreams, warts...and that's just Jeff! (I JEST!!!) forts, first ice cream cones, saggy diapers, blow outs, book reports, carpool, soccer, piano, and mastering the fine art of zucchini bread making just for kicks. (why I couldn't wait until it was done baking to snap the above picture is beyond me...)
No complaints. just gut rot from too much zucchini bread.


By the way, technically, it IS Libby's birthday today, but SHHHH don't tell her. Jeff is out of town.
(and I have an alarm system and a giant zucchini for any of you pervs getting any funny ideas)

Carpool Conversations

This is our 4th week of school. Grace and Will are the only kids in the carpool NOT on D track so I've been sister chauffeur for the last 3 weeks. To and from everyday. And I've loved it. Ten minutes there and 10 minutes back has really been my favorite part of the day. We practice spelling and vocab, discuss the lunch possibilities, do last spit check on faces, kisses and they are out of the car.

One of my favorite parts comes AFTER I drop them off. I am in the church parking lot right next to the school so I sit and watch for a few minutes. Grace turns and waves ONCE everyday, and then she is off and RUNNING. She has a weird thing about being late. I don't know where she gets it:). Will is the softy. When we moved to St. George 4 1/2 years ago I had to drive Will everyday for a month until our house was finished. My little shrimpy 1st grader would hop out of the car and start the treck to his classroom clear on the other side of the school. He would take 5 steps, turn, look for me, WAVE WAVE WAVE, turn around take 5 steps, WAVE WAVE WAVE WAVE...and so on and so forth until he'd give me one final wave as he turned the corner and left my line of vision. I ate it up everyday. Fast forward to 5th grade. Another new school. Mom is driving. I get my waves. Will is a bit more socially conscious of course, as any 10 year old is. He turns, looks for me and gives a little inconspicuous wave. He'll do it twice before he gets close enough for his buddies to see him, then he runs and drops his backpack to play basketball with his friends and forgets all about mom. It still melts me. It still makes my day 4 years later.

Driving home is great too. Ten minutes of my undivided attention. I bring snacks and settle in and let them go. Lunch report, recess report, you know, the news of the day. A few days ago Will started talking about finding a gold brick. A HUGE brick and every little crumb would be worth a MILLION dollars. These are just a few of the things he would buy:

A new skateboard

A mini fridge for his room

Target...the whole company

A chinese woman to feed him ding-dongs

The house being built next door for his SG buddies to live in

Stuff for Grace

A cool car

A chinese lady to be his nanny, which he quickly amended (thanks to Grace and I mocking him mercilessly) to a chinese lady that would be his bodyguard and perform kung fu on his attackers. He wants an entourage of bodyguards. Cuz he'll certainly need them with all of the fame and fortune coming his way.

The next day he told me he missed ONE question on the test we'd been studying for. When asked who the governor of his state was, he put BILL GATES. nice:)

this is the OLD remote gas powered remote control that Jeff and Will have been building jumps for. They want the new and improved model, which I'm sure will make it's way into Jeff's car some way or another before you know it. Notice Grace's BORED TO DEATH pose in the back. Love it. Below is Will posing in his new helmet. That's carmel, not snot on his shnoz. I swear.

In other news, the village idiot showed up to teach the Laurels yesterday. It was awful. The 1st counselor in the bishopric stopped in and I ATE DIRT for the rest of the lesson. HORRIBLE. TERRIBLE does not begin to describe my bumbling idiocy. nice.

I'm gonna try a new method this week. I will not open the manual till Friday. Instead I will read Breaking Dawn cover to cover. Sounds like a plan to me. Can't get any worse than the train wreck that was last week.

Luckily we had nice new friends invite us over for dinner last night. THANKYOU!!! The company was SUPER and the burgers WERE gourmet:)

have a good week ya'll.

Gotta get me some Jack

It started in 1992. It was the summer before my Sr. year in high school. A little film called NEWSIES hit the big screen and made me a life-long lover. Of the movie AND it's stars. I dragged anyone and everyone to that show. Christian Bale, anyone? Of course, in those days, he was Jack Kelly. The "newsie" with an attitude, a whip and some fancy footwork. Heaven knows I've always been a sucker for guy that could sing and dance. That may or may not have contributed to the disproportionately HIGH number of gay exes I can claim, but let's not go there. Later on, my college roommates (who obviously had tremendous taste too) and I memorized every dance step, every smirk, and every word. OBSESSED does not begin to cover it. Christian as Jack Kelly

So, the past week I've been indulging in a little reminiscence. THIS and THIS will introduce you to the NEWSIES awesomeness (just in case you've never become acquainted:). If you are hankering for a little grown-up man candy Christian, feast your eyes on THIS. Dark, brooding. And the ACCENT. Have mercy. Here is a little somethin' to tide you over...

Happy Wednesday:)

For REAL?

I've heard more than enough news reports about idiot parents leaving their children in hot cars this summer. I mean, isn't ONE child really too many? Well, this morning I heard about a product now available that will remind you with a gentle BEEP that you got knocked-up, spawned a living breathing human being (that you were brilliant enough to STRAP INTO the car), and that OOPS, you just walked away and LEFT the little tyke in the VEHICLE!!!

Seriously? Parents need ALERTS now? COME ON!!!

Here's my problem. A VAST majority of these idiots don't "forget" the kid is in the car. They just want a break and were either too STUPID, too CHEAP, or too LAZY to get a babysitter. Truly. Going to a midnight movie? Getting your hair done? Nails filled? Eating lunch with friends? Boozin' it up in a bar? These jackholes just didn't want to deal with an inconvenient child that might hamper social hour.

Are there a tiny number of cases that involve a parent that TRULY forgot the child? (change in schedule, day care problem etc.) Certainly. And those stories are TRAGIC and HEARTBREAKING. But I do believe these cases are few and far between. Besides, the people that are concerned enough about their child to buy this RIDICULOUS alert system in the first place are CERTAINLY NOT the same dope smoking moronic idiots that walk off and leave their babies.

Here's an idea,

birth control.

My bad

don't ever throw an innocent seeming "I'm bored" out there into the universe. It'll come back to bite you. Within hours. Truly. Just a few short hours after I posted my (ridiculously whiny) "bored" post we had water POURING into our basement. super! Luckily we had some (nice!!!) friends here ready to abandon dinner for a shop vac, haul everything out of the storage room and surrounding areas, and suck the troublesome water out of our basement. Our awesome builder came and fixed us up and (hopefully) we should be good to go. It was some settling problem with the sprinkler pipe coming into the basement. whatever...just don't let it happen again, beavis!

Today is the 3rd day of school and I am feeling MUCH better about it than I was Monday at this time. I felt tremendously bad for my kids. This neighborhood is strange in that the kids go to a bunch different schools. It's odd. There are other kids going to our school but they don't start till August (different track) so my two little gippers were AAALLL ALLOOOOOONE for the big first day. Not one friendly face. They were incredibly nervous but they came out after school with smiles, balloons, friends, and a report that the school had WAY better pizza than our old school. yay:)

We are slowly getting back into the school time routine. Early to bed, early to rise...blah blah blah. Grace is probably feeling it the most. She's such a sleeper. She couldn't go to sleep the night before until MIDNIGHT. Needless to say, she's TIRED now. She committed several small infractions yesterday after school and a big one after dinner. She came back downstairs while she was supposed to be in timeout and told me she was packing her bags. I said "that's too bad, but make sure you clean up your room before you go". She came back down a few minutes later with her old backpack STUFFED and HEAVY and said she was ready. She then started to argue...AGAIN!!!!!!!! FOR THE LOVE OF GREEN APPLES!!!

My response was this...

"Are you REALLY arguing with me AGAIN, NOW? How can you run away if you're stuck in your room ?! Think these things through Grace!"


this girl. wow. She definitely keeps us humble as parents. We kissed and made up and she went RIGHT to bed. She can't handle not having enough sleep. wowzers.

Grace and Annie last weekend. My kids were STOKED to have their friends here:)Grace on the first day of school. Will was too nervous to stick around for pictures. He sat in the car, in the garage for TEN MINUTES before it was time to go, poor kid.

This what Libby and I have been doing:)

I'm so bored

It's true. I'm SOOOOO BOOOOOORRRREEED right now I can actually taste it. Wanna know what boredom tastes like? Styrofoam.

My kids are bored. My hair is bored. Not that there aren't things I should be doing, I'm just NOT FEELING IT TODAY. My computer is jacked up. The bloody thing won't let me download the new flashplayer so I can't watch anything, download anything, NOTHING. I'm ready to toss this hunk o junk and start from scratch in the computer department. I've wanted a laptop for eons now.

Jeff should be home anytime. He's taking Will golfing while Grace, Libby and I will sit here and be BOOOOOORRRRREEEEEED some more. I've got a pile of books on my nightstand but NOTHING is grabbing me. What is my deal? If that isn't the biggest wendy whiner introduction then slap me upside the head and call me Sally.

School starts Monday for Will and Grace, and believe you me, IT NEEDS TO. We've been out since the middle of May so we (and by "we", I mean "me" naturally) are more than READY to get this party started. They are on separate tracks. I was NOT HAPPY about that at first but now I am actually sort of excited about it. More one on one time, someone else here to entertain Libby, someone else here to entertain Libby, and someone else here to help entertain Libby. All fantastic reasons if you ask me.

People have complained to me that I don't really do enough "updating" here on anyhoodle (just meaningless fluff), so that if you aren't right up here in my face you really have no clue what's up with the D family. I suppose that's true. I'll try to remedy this problem starting NOW.


Libby is a terror child these days. I came out of my bedroom yesterday and found her standing on my desk with the upper cupboards open. She had a sharpie in one hand , a pair of scissors in the other, and a smile as big as Texas on her face. Nice.

I came out of my bathroom today and instead of finding her snuggled up with her blankie and binky watching blue's clues (as I had left her), she was sitting there on my bed naked as a jay bird and smiling sweetly. She was sitting on Jeff's side so I wasn't too concerned.

Grace has been playing playing playing. Store, mostly. She sold everything from earrings to rocks. It's true. She and her little friend hudsen now want to open up a rock store. Yep. Rocks. Out of the empty lots around my house. Treasures ripe for the picking. She's rocking out to her "music", playing guitar hero (the Aerosmith version, naturally-only the best for the D family:), practicing the piano, and giving us just enough sass to keep things interesting around here.

Will spent the last two days at scout camp. He had a BLAST. Archery, canoeing, swimming, hiking, and a snack bar. Will's idea of heaven. He's been teaching himself how to skateboard, practicing the piano, and is GOLFING up a storm. He really loves it, and is GOOD at it, according to Jeff.

Me? well, I'm currently watching my cute geriatric neighbor climb out of her above-ground pool. My day just got a whole lot more interesting :)

Quick Suggestions?

I have to teach my first lesson in YW on Sunday. I'd like to do some sort of quick fun "get to know you" thingy before the lesson. It will be just my laurels (4-6). They don't know me from Eve. Seriously. I've already nixed showing off my super impressive middle finger or calling role via belch.

Whatcha got? Anything? Some of you creative wonders out there MUST have SOME ideas? Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated. Leave a comment or email me at wlganyhoodle@comcast.net.

thank you kindly and good day:)

GET OUT!

Tib over on SHARK BAIT made my day! She awarded me this fantastic prestigious award and I'd just like to say one thing.

It's about bloody time.

I JEST!!! I JEST!!

THANKS BUCKET LOADS TIB!! Skedaddle on over to Tib's blog and check out her hilarity:) She's quite the primo blogger:)

There are a few strings attached with this award. They are as follows:

1. Please put the logo on your blog.

2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.

3. You must nominate 7 fellow bloggers for this award.

4. Add links to the recipients.

5. Leave a comment so the recipients know they have received an award.

okay. 7 people. I don't really blurk around much. I was raised better than that.

KIDDING!

I just may not list people who are new to you.

Here's my list of wonderfulness in no particular order:

Holly - O'keefe family fun. Love this girl. got me blogging, really. She's the total package when it comes to this blog business. I miss her everyday.

Sharla- STOLEN GOODS. If you have not checked her out before I STRONGLY urge that you do. She may be the most intelligently witty person I know. Plus she spells good and gots super grammar:)

Hayley-My Authentic Blend of 23 Flavors . This girl will keep you entertained beyond belief. I knew could love her from the moment I realized she had a pet name for her (not-really-there) gut. Go check her and CHUCK out:)

Sherine-A Day In The Life of The Smiths. Sherine is an old friend that goes WAY back to my Singer's Unlimited days. She's beautiful, warm, talented, funny, and a mom who hands her hands full. I've loved reconnecting with her:)

Kristi-Writes Are Tough. My only complaint about Kristi is that she does not blog NEARLY enough:) Go check out her wacky sense of humor and laugh yourself silly. You'll love her like I do.

Lesley-The Sparks Family. Leslie was Will's awesome 4th grade teacher last year. She is gorgeous, takes some AWESOME pictures of her two beautiful kids, runs marathons, and has a cute cute blog.

Melissa-Christensen Chatter. She's a bestie from way back when. Many of you already "know" her, but if you don't, stop on by for a visit. I love this girlie.

thanks again TIB!!!

have a happy FRIDAY people:)

(sorry about the one big clumpy paragraph. Blogger won't pull it's head out this morning. little buggars)

Ineptitude in all it's grandeur

Seriously. Jeff and I are somewhat inept when it comes to parenting at times. SEVERELY inept when it comes to giving our children "the talk". Will missed his maturation program last year while we were house hunting up north. I was a bit miffed. I was REALLY hoping someone more qualified and more mature could handle this for me. We've been talking about IT here and there. When ever the opportunity presents itself. Jeff can't say ANYTHING without busting out in fits of giggles, which in turn, makes me laugh out of total and complete uncomfortableness. Until last night. I'll set the scene.

We are all sitting around the bar eating dinner. ALL OF US. Jeff asks across the bar in a completely audible voice , " did you start your period today?". I give him a death look that clearly means "are you a complete moron or are you just working towards it one idiot move at a time?" I say very quietly "YES...BE QUIET...you idiot". Actually, "you idiot" was only implied, not actually verbalized. His response and the ensuing conversation took place as follows...

JEFF: "You did? you are of NO use to me then".

I shoot him another dirty look.

Grace: "what's a period?"

Me: "hmm...why don't you let DAD answer that question."

Grace: "dad, what's a period?"

JEFF: "well Grace. Periods allow girls to bleed for a week straight and not die."

I was speechless. Jeff TRIED to redeem himself by talking about hormones (BAAAAAD IDEA), eggs, hairy armpits and fertilization (WORSE idea). He can't NOT laugh. plus he doesn't really know all the facts. SERIOUSLY. Will is completely grossed out, surely because at one point Jeff muttered something along the lines of "how do you think YOU got here?".

I do not jest.

totally inept

Darth Thriller

We discovered this piece of COOLNESS during our family reunion one night. Definately worth taking a look:)

Don't Get Too Comfortable...

That's what our bishopric told us when we sat down for a little "get to know you" meeting just a few weeks after we moved in. And when I say bishopric, I mean the WHOLE bishopric. Clerks and the whole kitandkaboodle. It was almost an hour long and a very nice way to welcome a new move in. They ended the get together with these words of caution..."don't get too comfortable...ha ha ha" and just a few short days later Jeff and I BOTH had callings. Wow.
Jeff is teaching sunday school (12 and 13 yr olds). AGAIN. tuff class, but jeff is the man for the job.
I'm in YW...AGAIN. i just can't escape it. This president is the POLAR opposite of the last two I worked with. I'm sure it will be great.

Life is busy. Family reunion (the huge week long Hicken extravaganza), company (a few times, which I LOOOOVE), morning glory KICKING MY BUTT in the yard, 4th of July BBQ at our house, golf lessons, birthdays, concerts, and being SO SICK I WANTED TO DIE. I'm still not back to normal, actually. Some weird and totally NOT COMMON (unless you are ME, who can't take ANYTHING with out getting the most odd and freak-A side affects) reaction to medication. The bad news is that I still feel wiped out and the replacement meds gave me the barfs. Good news? The blasted rash on my chin that brought on all the medicinal trauma has magically disappeared. halle-freaking-lujah.

Reunion was FUN FUN and more FUN. I'll get pictures coming.

oh, and for any of you trying to call me, use my cell phone. My home phone is still JACKED-UP. Comcast is so on my list.

later:)

Pics and Books

Good afternoon ladies and gents!

Life is flying by on warp speed these days. What oh what does one cover when it's been a week and a half? I'll start with Father's Day (and probably end there too...I like to have little or no expectation for personal accomplishment. It leaves little room for disappointment and self loathing that way...).

ANYHOO...

Father's Day came and went. Jeff is constantly complaining about my lack of organizing and printing pictures. We do not have a family picture to speak of since BEFORE grace was born. She's 7 1/2. oops. Miss did take some pictures last summer of all of us but I was ridiculously hideous in them (think Sharon Osborn meets bells palsy hangover lady) so none of the group shots ever made it to print, needless to say.

I tried to remedy my errant ways and scheduled a session with this fabulous little photographer that I know. These are just sampling of what I gave Jeff. Framed and all:)

The right corner bottom picture is really the crown jewel of the bunch. I think it really captures me. You are a magician miss:) Some of these hadn't been edited yet and I can't get the BEAUTIFUL libby pictures from my email to my pictures?!?, but you get the idea. I did give Jeff a decent picture of me, but ONLY because if I have to look at my bridal on his bedside table for one more day I'll gouge out my own eyeballs. It will not be shown here:) (Neither the picture NOR the gouging...)

THANK YOU MISS!!!! YOU ARE THE BESTEST:) Here is a link

to her photo blog, for those of you need need, and believe you me, you NEED her:)

(the disturbing 12 chin picture of me was actually a self-portrait taken months ago to win an ugly face contest with Miss (my sister the photog), she had no hand in that nastiness).

Okay, on to a BOOK REVIEWS!!!

Small Change by J. Belinda Yandell





Get it. Read it. You WILL like. Unless you are cold and dead inside.


I read it in just over 1 HOUR this afternoon for a new little book club that I think will be AWESOME:)


Wonderful QUICK read for EVERYONE out there. I REEEAAALLLY enjoyed it. I'm not telling you anything else about it other than to GO GET IT here.

My next review is The Host by Stephenie Meyer

I finished it a few weeks ago. It took AT LEAST 70 pages to get into it. Body snatchers, end of human life, not fabulous writing (equal to Twilight, I suppose), but boy can Ms. Meyer think up the tall tales! It is science fiction, but told in a very non-science fiction sort of way. I ended up liking it. I'd say 3 out of 4 stars.

Love you ALL and miss seeing some of your bright smiley faces everyday:)

Thanks for the warm welcome, all you nice new people out there:)

Oh to be ten again

Saturday we hauled ourselves down to the Gateway with Jeff's family. Have I mentioned how much I love that place? Well, I do. I love it. Love the location, the stores, the theaters, the restaurants, the festive atmosphere in general. Oh, and it was the birthplace for my dearest unending obsession. My kids, 0f course, love the fountains. I know splash pads are all the rage these days, but they never lose their appeal. We slathered up (just for you Jori:) and the kids went buck wild. Jackson (Jeff's sister's CUTE little boy) was less than thrilled. Libby was enthralled. She loves water. We jipt (how the H to do you spell that word? IS is even a real WORD? tis a puzzlement.) Libby by moving right when she would have LOVED having a pool. bummer. Anyhoo, great time. great company:)

One last thing I HAD to share with the peeps in SC. Some genius up here TOTALLY felt your pain whilst boring yourselves to death sitting in an empty movie theater 30 minutes early with your LAME friend who CAN NOT endure a movie/church/show in a poopy seat.
Good old Larry Miller took me to heaven and back last weekend because his new theaters have...dun dun dun ................................

ASSIGNED SEATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SERIOUSLY! I adore you Mr. Miller. I'll never make fun of your protruding belly or courtside antics again. NEVER:) And if there is ever a favor you may stand in need of, let me know. Comb over, belly rub, you name it. I'm yours. You had me at "assigned seats".

Time to come "up north" for a visit ladies. We can catch dinner AND a movie now:)

hello

HI!! hello friends:) How's life? What's shakin' bacon?

We are HERE. We are no longer living out of boxes. The movers tried to bail the morning they were supposed to unload. They didn't want to work in the rain. Delicate little chain-smoking flowers that they are. They tried to charge us DOUBLE. They dropped my piano. I had a hummingbird trapped inside my house. I hate birds. It would probably still be here if Sister C hadn't taken care of business. It was fabulous. I have a gay pride trampoline. I have the inter-web. I have a phone-line. I have my dish. Seriously, I just could NOT give it up. Here's a tip. If you've been with a provider for a long while (and haven't been a total whack-job-no-pay-pain-in-the-A) threaten to leave and they will bend over to keep your business. Dish totally hooked me up:) nice.

Now. Back to the boxes.
There were many. Boxes. Boxes everywhere. here and there. on the stair and over there. boxes boxes everywhere.
I'm making progress. I am. I love my house. I like my ward (at least what I could gather from the first week...I'm sure the whack jobs were out of town for the holiday). We've had three plates of cookies. Someone left a loaf of homemade wheat bread on my porch while I was at the library this morning. seriously. No name...just a loaf. Tell you what. If I had killed myself baking bread all morning there is no freaking way I'd drop and go. I'd TOTALLY make sure my name and picture was attached and take the credit. For reals.

I love having my old friends near again. So do my kids.
I love having both of our families RIGHT HERE. It's really awesome.
It's gorgeous here right now. The mountains COULD NOT be any more beautiful. Seriously. They take my breath away.

I miss my besties:)
My kids miss their buddies.

I'll be back on top of the blogging business now. I promise:)

edited to add:
here is my new email...
wlganyhoodle {at} comcast {dot} net
please drop me a line. I'm lazy and really don't want to have to re-enter every name again.
many thanks:)

poll

quick question people....

cable or dish?

I've had dish for 7 years. I love it. I love their menus, remotes, and DVR. I have nothing but love for my dish.

BUT...I'm considering switching to cable so I can "bundle" high speed Internet, phone, and TV all together. It doesn't save THAT much money, but I love the idea of having cable on every TV. No box needed.
Here is my hang-up. With a DISH DVR you can tape on one TV and watch it back on another. It's super convenient. and awesome. You CAN NOT do that with cable. Is this not a big deal?

I NEED OPINIONS. I have to make up my mind by tomorrow morning and I seriously keep going back and forth. Oh, if I could only exert this much brain energy on important things. Like who should win American Idol. Or clouds.

PLEASE LEAVE ME YOUR OPINION. even if I don't know you. This is too big a decision to be left to me and me alone.

Top SIx...

...reasons why my friends will rejoice upon my eminent departure. I've been very introspective as of late. I'm certain that has something to do with the fact that strangers will be casting first judgements of me in the frightfully near future. It's made me do some serious self analysis, something I don't recommend to the faint of heart. Unless you are way cooler than me. This little "personal renaissance" has led to the following list. Ladies and gentlemen, I now present the top reasons my friends can't WAIT to bid me adieu...

1. They'll be able to squeeze in a word or two in normal conversations. I need to learn to shut my pie hole. I'm an interrupter and a know-it-all, I've realized, but I'm TRYING to be better.

2. They'll no longer have to put up with unsolicited political tirades. I'm a bit passionate about politics. It's true. My friends know this about me. But COME ON!!! WHO wants to hear about the ridiculous mess socialized medicine is/would be while sipping frozen hot chocolate and laughing about husbands and personal grooming? I'm gonna muzzle myself in the future relationships.

3. I won't be there to embarrass or make others uncomfortable by saying inappropriate things. Self edit button does not exist. They also know this about me. Case in point. Our cute friend was NERVOUS about leaving the next morning on a trip to China, right after the earthquakes earlier in the day. I gave her a hug, wished her well running the marathon on the Great Wall of China (no joke...what?), and then left her with these kind words...

"good luck with those after-shocks".

no joke. I said that.

and THIS. and THIS.

4. They no longer have to view my case of eternal HB. (Hanging Boogers). It's a curse. One handed down from my mother. That and spider veins. I totally hit the jack-pot with these genes:) (kidding mom...almost:). Jeff is ALWAYS saying to me in a voice RIDDLED with disgust..."SNIFF!!! can you really NOT feel that? Just ASSUME that you always have a booger, cuz you DO, and plan accordingly. "
ugg. so annoying. and gross.
I'm SORRY.

5. I won't be there to pay, and then refuse attempts at repayment. I know it's annoying. I've been doing that since I was 10. Clear back when my sister Steph and my best friend Aimee mooched every dime I had to ride our bikes to Circle-K or Seven-11 for Zingers, Fritos and bean dip, or nachos, suckers and ice cream at the spa (the community pool). I always want everyone to have a gooood time. Share and share alike, I always say. (either that, or I'm desperate for approval or acceptance?!?!?!!! hmmm....)
I'm turning over a new leaf with any prospective new friends and neighbors. Be warned...
I'M GONNA BLEED YOU DRY.

Last, but certainly HIGH on the list of annoying/disturbing things is this...


I'm growing them out...what do you think?
6. Won't have to look at REPULSIVE EYEBROWS.
If you know me AT ALL...you know I'm an eyebrow appreciator. I notice them. I admire the beautiful ones and mourn for the disasters. They make or break a look. They shape a face. I love them. I love plucking, BUT, I have been letting them go buck wild the past month or so. See, the problem is this. I'm moving in 4 days. I won't have an eyebrow/lip waxer so I'm just making sure my current waxer gets as many nasties as is humanly possible when she goes in to tame the foliage tomorrow. Cuz let's face it. I'm lazy and hesitant when it comes to searching out new people and stores. It could be awhile. Let's hope I don't need a new vacuum bag anytime soon.

Happy Mother's Day

Still my all time favorite:)

Commodious Contemplation...

or..."Stuff I learned on the biff".

What's a "biff" or "biffy" (as some of you may call it)? The "biff" is a bathroom.

a toilet, to be frank. I find that "biff" time is a stupendous slice of time to catch up on needless random trivia, quotes and facts thanks to my super spectacular bathroom trivia book. Nice little "nuggets of knowledge" to take in while you're taking care of business. Interesting little one liners for those in-n-out times, or multiple choice themed question pages for those longer engagements.

Anyhoode, I thought this little book and it's contents would make a super addition to my blog. See, other people offer great cooking websites, recipes, links to cool online stores, inspirational ideas, etc, so I thought I'd offer up what I know...

Bathroom trivia.

I'll update the info, um...when ever I feel like it. I'd promise to update daily but let's get real. That would lead to pressure, angst, anxiety, guilt and further self-loathing, so I'll just promise to update when ever the heck I feel the urge.

good enough? good.

Check out the sidebar for this new feature:)

Mission: ACCOMPLISHED

Folks, we have a WINNER. We knew the second we walked in. It's great. It's in a perfect spot. Close to work, family, and friends...but not TOO close :). I'm so glad we WAITED IT OUT and found exactly what we wanted. We'll be closing in 2 1/2 weeks. WHAT? That's right. TWO AND A HALF WEEKS!! I will be a busy bee but happy as a clam. Until we have to actually pull out and leave our friends behind. I'm just not gonna think about THAT part. oy vey. Time's a wastin'. Best be making the most of my last days in Dixie. Me thinks the girls need lunches. Dinners. Movies. Whatever. I've got to soak in all these gals before I do the skedaddle:)

tidbits

What is that shaz? Any guesses?

Will's face pretty much says it all. It's vacuum blockage. I've only changed my vacuum bag ONE time since I moved here. Four years ago. My bad. I was trying to conserve bags. No, I'm not that "green". I bought my bags at a special vacuum store in SLC and only had 2 bags left. SO, I decided to be a wise consumer (wise= lazy) and not waste precious energy, gas, and brain power on trying to locate a special vacuum store here. Instead, I spent 30 minutes up close and personal with a butter knife and my vacuum a few mornings ago trying to undo this nonsense. Apparently the above photos illustrate the effects of vacuum bag negligence. That's only really the half of it. I threw most of it away before I was smart enough to skim the top of the garbage for a photo opp.

What are those bright shiny objects in the picture above? PINEWOOD DERBY CARS PEOPLE. and YES, jeff D. was NOT here do this little task. It was all up to little handy me. With two days notice. We bought a pre-shaped car, Will sanded for approximately 30 seconds (gasp. shock. horror!), spray painted, applied the decals (that promptly fell off while attaching the wheels), attached the wheels with faulty glue, and called it good. The process probably took a total of 1 hour. Hey. Will's lucky I even attempted this hullabaloo. As of now, I haven't quite caught "scouting fever" and Jeff is an eternal Weebalo. Not big scouters over here. obviously. His little car came in second place in both heats so all in all we were both beyond thrilled. We don't need to dwell on the fact that the weights fell off mid-race. I didn't actually apply those myself so I accept none of the blame there. (thanks for the valiant effort senior hill:).

What is the 411 on this picture? I like it. How's that nosey neighbors!?

I've been back and forth to SLC a bunch of times, and will be going back again tomorrow. HOPEFULLY we will ink up on SOMETHING soon. Last weekend we a great time, even though we were not totally successful on the housing front. We saw BOTH families, (my super awesome Sis-In law Janie even had ALL three kids sleep over one night...how much do I LOOOOVE her?), caught up with some friends (hi-ya Miss and R!), and caught 1st row seats to a BLAZE game. SERIOUSLY SO FUN. Do it if you get the chance. Indoor football is WILD. These athletes are like mini-men when compared to regular NFL players. Total hobbits. You'll be hard pressed to not shout out "RUN FROTTO...RUN". I swear it. SO much fun.

One MAJOR highlight was the LOOSLE LADIES LUNCH on Saturday. ALWAYS fun. Always though provoking. Always loud. Always AWESOME to see these girls that I love so much!!! We missed all of you who couldn't come! GREAT to see you Jan, Heidi, Amy, Kim, Steph, and my madre:) Sorry I made such a spectacle of myself in the restaurant. SERIOUSLY. We need to get planning the next family affair. And by "WE" , of course I mean "AMY".
kidding:)
I was so TIRED while driving home, but I got to come home and see Kristin's new little Cameron. SO FREAKING ADORABLE. my word. those two can pump out some attractive offspring. Go check out her pics on her blog.
Have a swell week people. Try not to dwell on the fact that they STUNK IT UP over on IDOL last night. Was Andrew Lloyd Weber not like a little delighted elf? He's a happy man:) With very red pants. My dreaded lovely crashed and BURNED last night. SO PAINFUL. Anyhoodle,
later.

One Semester of Spanish - Love Song

This is so cracking me up today. This is exactly what I learned in my two years of Spanish I. I had to steal this from Nanci's blog. Check her out on my sidebar. She's a hoot:) (I can't hyperlink from youtube.)

Nothing says "I love you" more than "my cat is very white", "where is the library?" or "my mom is pretty."

enjoy:)

Thankful Thursday

First off, thanks again Tib for making this little header public domain. You're a gem:)

In no particular order, here are the things I'm thankful for this bright beautifu spring lThursday.

1. Google and Youtube.

I use both of these probably EVERY day. Most recently? Google helped me save face with my 4th grader last night. I had to prove to Will that I DO indeed know MORE than he does about converting fractions and decimals. I do. But barely. Next year we will definitely be in tutor territory. It's inevitable, really. Me not so smart.

2. My new awesome flat iron. My old one was not getting as hot as any self respecting iron should so I gave her the old heave-ho. Good riddance, weak impostor.

3. The office, of course. Set your DVR's people. I'll be popping popcorn and watching. All by myself.

(see that? see how I made you feel sorry for my everlasting loneliness in a seemingly light hearted post about popcorn and flat irons? Man, I'm good:)

4. A husband that I ADORE, and who adores me back. He spoils me rotten. He makes me LAUGH. I love him. He's my best friend. I miss him.

5. Change

Funny thing to be thankful for? I say no. Without change we'd become stagnant and stale. Change provides opportunity for growth. It also makes you cling close to your loved ones. Your CORE. The ones who will always be there. It's not fun or easy, but necessary and potentially wonderful.

6. My delightful 19 month old.

She becomes more and more fun, full of personality, and interactive everyday. THIS age is why I have kids. The preceding year and half? No thanks:) kidding, sort of. She's a hoot and a half right now. Talking more and more, learning new things everyday, and cracking me up on a very regular basis. That is, when she's not teething, and then she's a monster and is up for grabs.

Good enough:)

good day people, good day.

Dreaded Deliciousness

As I have dccumented before here on anyhoodle, I am incapable of a normal bedtime whilst Jeff is away. You know, the boogie man and such. This is what I was enjoying in the wee hours of the morning. I think he's BEAUTIFUL. I do. No apologies to all you big lame-A haters. He totally kicks it for me, and not just because Jeff's gone. And I'm lonley. I would have crept down and youtubed it at 1 AM if they had put blinds in my office. clearly visable from the road. WHAT? Who wants to see that? No late night triple X websites for me. HA!
Enjoy this little piece of vocal awesomeness:)

Baby BYE BYE BYE

Have you ever seen a cuter smirk than this one? I happen to adore this particular person. Jeff is extremely anti-camera so I have to take what I can get. This one makes me smile.

He left yesterday amid much weeping and wailing. It sucked, to put it bluntly. I miss him. We'll ALL miss him.

Then there is the adorable little face below.

Not so adorable when she sneezes scrambled egg all over your cell phone. nice.

It's been a HOOT to catch up on everyone's blogs. I think I've commented maybe twice over the past month? I had so much to read up on and now I feel up to date with all ya'll. I'm calling-less (they called a new YW secretary last week:) yay me:),all alone, and have OODLES of time on my hands so blogging will once again be back on the front burner. I must find SOMETHING to occupy my time before I eat myself into oblivion. ASAP. Although, I do manage to blog and shovel in the goods simultaneously so perhaps I need to find an additional diversion. Help me.

hideeho:)

I have a new best friend and his name is Dave. He is super smart and had the worst case of gum cheese I've ever seen, but we'll just focus on the smart part. I'm such a positive person. He fixed my computer in about 3 seconds and then spruced up the place a bit. Fixed the spell check on my email and fixed the damage I did when I tried to install firefox MYSELF. Never a wise choice for me. I find it quite fitting that my new computer man's name is Dave, seeing as the one I broke-up with was a Paul Schafer look alike. Weird.

Anyhoodle, I'm back up and RUNNING baby. I realize my last post was a bit confusing to those of you not up on the 411 around here. Try to keep up people. Things change FAST in these parts. It's never boring, that's for sure. Our plan has not changed, really, just sort of been delayed. We had sold our house when we were frantically searching for houses last month. We had 30 days to be out and were hoping to magically find the perfect house in just a few days so that we could haul A up there and throw the kids right into the school they will be in next year. That little plan did not come to fruition. Turns out we may be a tinsy bit picky and then there is that pesky business of actually forking out the bucks for something you love. Oh, and did I mention the picky thing? That Jeff. Impossible to please:) Ha. I'm so annoying. Our poor realtor. Good thing he is our friend and has to put with our impossible-ness. He's a champ:)

We ended up renting a house right across the street from our old house just until school gets out and we find our permanent digs. It's convenient and fine. Actually, it's quite beautiful. If I could find something as pretty as this house is "up north" (as the locals would say) I'd be happy as a clam. Jeff is still heading up Monday so it'll just be me and the offspring for a few months. Joy.
I feel some maniacal blogging may be in my not so distant future:) In the mean time, Jeff and I are headed out for a little R and R before he goes to his new store on Monday. I'll catch up when we get back:)

What the...

heck did I ever do to infuriate the computer gods? Honestly. I'm moved in. I've worked like a dog. First two hook-up calls I made were to Dish and to my Internet company, naturally. No hot water, dead car batteries at 10:30 at night, gas leaks, nasty floors, working like an illegal, and this girl was READY for some blog catch-up time yesterday. HA! WE'VE GOT A COMPUTER DOWN...I REPEAT...A COMPUTER DOWN!!!!

For those of you counting, this would indeed be the THIRD hard drive crash in 6 months. What the?!! Nice. Super. I'm sitting at Sister K's house mooching her computer and company, oh, and few chocolate covered macadamia nuts just for kicks. I'll be back to check in and CATCH UP SOON, computer fixers willing. Seriously. At least I can watch my "shows" and continue to entertain an endless stream of nasty A repairmen.
Oh, by the way, for those of you who may try to reach and touch me, via the telephone, my home phone will not be working until Monday. Use my cell.
Good day.

Mission: IMPOSSIBLE

yep. No way. No decisions made. Nada. Nitch. If anything, I do believe Jeff and I are more confused now than we were before we started. We haven't even narrowed down an area. Freak. We haven't even narrowed down a COUNTY. hogwash. And then there is the pesky business of actually having to pony up the dough for something you like. This house business is for the birds. I don't like birds.



Anyhoodle, on to things of more interest. It has recently been brought to my attention that I have a few familial closet readers. Ladies who've lip synced "Cherish" with me while our brothers played air guitar in tank tops and shorty shorts. Girls who really were THAT excited to perform "I'm so excited" with strobe lights (again, our trusty brothers maniacally shaking flashlights around like crazy people provided the "strobes"), and girls who showed their souls on "Moving Right Along"-muppet edition. That was some fierce choreography. And a few bad A sperm perms. And a santa hat.


I have to give a gigantic shout out to all the LOOSLE LADIES out there who may pop in (unbeknownst to me) from time to time. If I've said it once I've said it a hundred times (is that a real phrase? I'm notorious for slaughtering catch phrases...)anyway. I have the COOLEST cousins EVER (and a few awesome aunts thrown in for good measure:). Seriously. We Loosle ladies know how to get down. Can't wait to actually be able to attend our get togethers again. You girls are a regular laugh riot! We'll catch up soon, I promise. Oh, and consider yourselves lucky that I don't actually posses any video/picture footage of our escapades. Geeze Louise. Now THAT'S what I call entertainment:) Maybe I'll give a PRIZE to the first Loosle Lady who actually dares to leave a comment:)
This little number could be all yours:

Now, to be fair, I did offer it up in an earlier contest held here on Anyhoodle, but seeing as Sharla never claimed her prize, I'm considering it back on the table. You snooze you lose:)

I've sat down to compose a new post probably 10 times in the past few days but NOTHIN' comes to me. NOTHING. It's a case of really having OODLES of things going on in my head but no desire to write it out. Anyone feel me?

People keep asking me if I am devastated/sad/excited/nervous to be making a big move (again) and really, I'm just the sort of person who just DOES what needs doing. I'll think about my *feelings* later. Too many other things to think about right now. Wow, do I sound like a stone cold ICE QUEEN or what?! I suppose it has been established previously that I am a machine, so no big shocker there.

Here are bunch of unanswerable questions/thoughts I'm volleying around in my head right now:

Am I the WORST mother EVER for taking my kids out of school/dance/piano the last 3 months? They seem to be fine about it, but STILL!

Will we be able to find a house in 3 days that I am in love with?

We've already found the two best neighborhoods in America. Could there possibly be a third? Are we crazy for pressing our luck?

How long before I am REPLACED? (don't answer that...I know it's inevitable, but STILL!)

Will I be able to get to Heather (my hair/lip/brow guru) before the big move? Best not be meeting the new neighbors with a stache and a bert brow.

Will I ever find new babysitters for my kids? This mama needs her breaks. Not excited about starting that process over.

I have 3 weeks to make this poor show pony over. Don't want the neighbors thinking a big hairy/zitty/albino troll moved in down the street.

I'd like to really start packing. I have ONE box. I should do something to remedy that situation. Maybe tomorrow.

I've eaten A LOT of Reeses mini eggs in the past few days. I'm starting to think that perhaps I may have a Reeses intolerance, but yet I forge on. I'm nothing if not persistent.

Have a good Thursday people:)

Thankful Monday?

hi there friends! How are things? good? Great:)
Mondays can be thankful too, right? I'm sick of Thursdays hogging all the 'thanks'. Mondays need equal representation.
Let see. Where to begin?

1. New beginnings was last week. It was super and it's over. Thankful for that.

2. The baptisms and blessings last weekend were great.

3. My super cool brother! He made me FIVE of the coolest mix CD's you've EVER heard for my drive home. I was in such a rush to get outta dodge that I grabbed nary a CD. Seriously. The Cure, Carpenters, Bon Jovi, MoTab, INXS, Weezer, Joni Mitchell, Wicked, Aaron Copeland, and everything in between. He is officially my favorite brother. Now, I'm not saying that gifts are a must when trying to earn (buy) your way into my good graces, but, well... it can't hurt. I'm just sayin'. Thanks Bret. You totally made my week!

4. My kid's teachers. SEP's were last week and I love BOTH of their teachers, and I think they like my kids too. Oh, and neither child is beating down other kids, or GETTING beatin' down by other hellions, so...Yay.

5. GORGEOUS weather. Wow. It really is something else down here right now. I can really only embrace it with half a heart though, because it will turn on me THIS fast and melt my eyeballs.

6. HEALTH!!!!
No barfs, trots (related to sickness, that is. blatant over-eating episodes are not eligible in this category), stomach aches, sore throats or snot faces for nearly a WEEK. And yes, I just knocked on every hard surface within an arm length.

7. SPELL CHECK and BLOGGER apparently kissed and made up!!! praises be. Steph and Sharla you may continue to mock my inappropriate word usage and egregious grammar, but SPELLING is officially off the table.

8. Change and heavy lifters.
Oh, did I not mention that we sold our house? Well, we did. And we have 25 days to be out. Oh, and did I also fail to mention that we are no longer buying our neighbors house? Silly me. We're moving back to SLC. So, I'm thankful for the big strong movers who will lift all my heavy junk, and take extra special care of my Edward/Jacob/Atticus love collage.
Good day:)

wow

I promise I WILL get to a real non-American Idol post one of these days, but PLEASE check out this kid. David Archuletta. He was AMAZING last night. SERIOUS vocal chops. WOW. He's 17!!! from Utah, and looks like a boy:)

My New Favorite

I LaLaLove this guy. LOVE him. Jason Castro. Remember that name. American Idol voters better not screw the pooch with this guy. yum. SERSIOUSLY. yum.

My Thankful Thursday

I stole this idea from Tib because I quite like it. I think it could be helpful for me to be more aware of the things (and there are MANY) that I should be grateful for everyday. Thanks for the banner too Tib.

1. Sweats.
self explanatory.

2. Opportunities to fast and pray for loved ones. Something I need to do more often.

3. A toddler who will watch Sesame Street. PRAISES BE!!
I love that that show manages to keep it current while still retaining it's old familiar appeal.

4. My AM radio/ipod docs in the kitchen and bathroom. I'm a closet political junkie. I need my fixes. Everyday.

5. Steal cut oatmeal. It's become my new favorite breakfast. LOVE it. and the fiber loves me.

6. Indoor plumbing and toilet paper, particularly in the middle of the night.

7. Short business trips.
Jeff will back tonight after being gone only ONE night this time. That I can handle.

8. The chance to see not one, but TWO baptisms in the same family this weekend.

asdfjalsdfjafasdkljfasdlf

Hey there.
Not much to report from the D house hold. Company came and went (so great to see you Sister C!:), had a few showings, and gave "the talk". It was fine. That's really all I can say. Fine. I'll not be garnering any public speaking awards anytime soon, but I figure I've paid the piper now for at least a few years. The weird thing? I really think 7-10 minutes is a little bit SHORT for a good talk. I could have really used 15-20 minutes. I tried to hurry through it. Oh well.

The most embarrassing part of the whole experience actually occurred as I was sitting on the stand waiting for the rest of the YW Presidency to join me. The Bish came up to take his seat and walked over to ask if he had ruined my weekend with his last minute call. I replied...

"No worries...I'm a machine".

whaaahhh? Did I REALLY just say "I'm a machine"? to the Bishop? That I hardly know? Sure did. As he walked away I gave MYSELF a giant eye-roll and shake of the head. I'm helpless. Honestly.

One quick book recommendation before I catch up on your going ons and such.


Goose Girl by Shannon Hale. I REALLY loved this book. I know Holly already suggested it, but mom, Steph, Em, Miss, all you other readers out there that don't read Holly's blog, go track down this book. Great, simple, sweet book. One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long while, and I've read some GREAT books as of late. Here's the amazon link...(is anyone else having issues with inserting hyperlinks today? Sorry to use the word "insert"...ewwww.)
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1582349908/interactiveda499-20

curses be. I can't use italics, bold, ANYTHING! I hate typing without expression.

Plea for help

Hey. I just got a phone call from the Bishop. I have to speak in church THIS Sunday with the rest of the YW presidency. He assigned us a talk given by President Hinckley in the April 2007 conference entitled "Let Virtue Garnish Thy Thoughts Unceasingly".It's a great talk, but I'm way out of my element here. I've spoken in church maybe twice before? I'd rather sing 10 songs back to back than to actually speak intelligibly. I'm struggling with the whole giving a talk from a talk thing. He covers 4 points in the talk and I need some stories/thoughts to share about the following 4 subjects:

1. prayer
2. study (scripture and other)
3. tithing
4. Attend meetings

HELP ME. PLEASE email anything that might save my butt. This is why you don't answer your phone. KIDDING! I know, blessing in heaven...ya ya ya.

HELP ME.
please:)
wlgdavis{at}beyondbb{dot}com