Notes From Sin City

"The big one"

2011-11-11T14:00:00.000-08:00

Aah Kate, the oldest, the first born or the big one, as my niece Summer used to call her. She has always made us laugh, but lately her humor has a sassy edge to it (she is a tween you know). This is what happened at dinner the other night:

Kate bossing Emma around telling her what to do

Matt: Kate, who are the mom and dad here?

Kate: You

Matt: Then who needs to mind their own business?

Kate: YOU!

History 101

2011-09-20T12:06:00.000-07:00

I was hanging out with this cute kid the other day and we started talking about Sept.11th. Our coversation went a little something like this:

Ryne: Did you know they are rebuilding the twin towers?

Me: Really? That's cool.

Ryne: I'm not sure if it's a very good idea.

Me: Why?

Ryne: Because as soon as they build them the Russians are just going to knock them down again.

Me (with concered look on my face): Bud, the Russians didn't knock down the twin towers.

Ryne: Oh yea, I meant the Africans.

I promise we had a history lesson and he was set straight.

Notice anything missing?

2011-07-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

We just might be getting this baby home on MONDAY!!!

Baby Sam

2011-06-23T15:14:00.000-07:00

Here's a short video of Sam trying to open his eyes. Be aware, you can see his chest opening and his heart pumping if that sort of thing bothers you.

one week and four days!!

2011-06-10T14:43:00.000-07:00

Here he is at nearly 37 weeks. This will be the last sonogram they do before the big day. We got to watch him licking his hand during the sonogram. It was very funny I've never seen anything like that before. They are estimating he will be at least 9 pounds. We are getting very excited to meet him.

Scratch That

2011-06-01T20:32:00.000-07:00

I got a call from the Dr. today and there has been a change of plans. They have rescheduled the C-section for June 21st. Hooray!!

The End is Near

2011-05-26T18:39:00.000-07:00

We got some fun news today. We will be having this baby on June 27th. We cannot wait!

(not so) little man

2011-04-18T21:06:00.000-07:00

We went to the doctor today and baby looks good. With 10 weeks left to go he's already weighing in at 4 pounds. No wonder I look the way I do and feel the way I do. This baby could be LARGE! And, no, we still don't have a name. But look at his cute smile.

He looks like he belongs to us

2011-03-25T14:31:00.001-07:00

We think he's pretty cute. Kate thinks it looks creepy but I don't agree.

We're having a .....................

2010-12-23T14:34:00.000-08:00

BOY!!!!

Moms of multiples are freaks of nature

2010-12-14T08:33:00.000-08:00

My sister told me about this video and then my sister in law posted it on facebook. It's hillarious and I have been asked each and everyone of these questions.

Do you see what I see?

2010-12-03T09:48:00.001-08:00

After a looooooooooooong (9 year) hiatus we are thrilled to announce there will be a new baby Karpowitz!

Boys have a one track mind

2010-10-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

We were all in the car the other day and Kate says, "I think it's weird that a boy fertilizes a mom's egg. But what I really don't get is how Dad fertilized your egg."

Mom: Well when we get home I will explain that to you.

Emma: When you explain it to her you can also explain it me!

Mom: Fine Emma I'll explain it to you too.

Ryne: And, when you explain it to them Dad and I will watch transformers.

Emma's birthday wishes

2010-08-16T16:07:00.000-07:00

This made me laugh, especially numbers
8. 6 douhnuts for me
16. a can of olives (what??!)
19. my own box of cookie crisp

12 years

2010-08-16T08:17:00.001-07:00

It's been fun!

Saturday is a special day

2010-07-15T16:00:00.000-07:00

The day after tomorrow!!!!

The house!

2010-06-24T15:54:00.000-07:00

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Week 4

The projected finish date is August 6th, I can't wait!

One month to go

2010-06-17T10:39:00.000-07:00

2010-05-05T10:05:00.000-07:00

It is obvious, I can't wait for his concert?

"No more grey mornings, I think I'd rather die"

2010-04-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

I listened to this song today while I was cleaning. I loved my time in Kansas, dear friends and family so close. But, sheesh the winters were hard for me. I woke up today in sunny Southern Nevada and I am grateful for the sun the blue skies and the lovely temperatures. Even in the 120 degree summers.

p.s. Guess who's concert I get to go to in July.

Did you enjoy the Olympics?

2010-03-05T08:46:00.000-08:00

We really enjoyed the Olympics this year. The kids were enthralled. Ryne loved the snowboarding, they all loved the speed skating, and the girl's loved the figure skating. One night while we were watching the pairs figure skating Kate made a keen observation. She said, "the difference between the men and the women skaters is that the man lifts weights." And then she stopped and thought a little longer and goes, "except the weight is a LADY!"

Very Good Advice

2010-02-05T15:48:00.001-08:00

This is what Ryne brought home today. For their spelling tests they have a dictation portion. The sentence they were to write was, "I should brush my teeth when I finish eating sugar." Ryne wrote, "I should brush my teet when I finish eating sugar." I can't believe she marked that wrong!

I wonder

2010-02-04T11:02:00.001-08:00

I wonder if, with eyes that big, he can see more of the world than the rest of us.

a little something for my frigid friends

2010-01-06T11:55:00.001-08:00

Since it's hard to read I'll translate "59 degrees" and so sunny.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2009-12-23T19:13:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas

and

Happy New Year!

O Holy Crap

2009-12-17T20:55:00.000-08:00

Cute Kids

2009-11-29T19:21:00.001-08:00

When we were in Utah over Thanksgiving we decided to have some family pictures taken by the fabulous Lindsay. I just love how they turned out. Thank you Lindsay!

Good News

2009-10-28T18:44:00.001-07:00

It's been a good news sort of a week.

This guy's PET scan shows no cancer and Dr.'s have taken him off the blood thinner

This cute girl (my neice Holli) got engaged

This handsome fella (my nephew Jake) is being baptized

Plus it's Halloween which is my very favorite Holiday (after Christmas and the 4th of July, of course).

What to do?

2009-10-08T18:10:00.001-07:00

Hello my name is Leah and I am a worrier. Maybe I'm the only one out there who feels this way but seriously I worry about everything. I worry when my kids are at home that they are missing out at school. I worry when they are in school that they are learning things they shouldn't. I worry that I'm not nice enough. I worry that I don't discipline enough. I worry that my kids don't have enough friends or that they are too social. I worry that I'm not doing enough in my calling or that I'm spending too much time on it and not enough with my kids. I worry that my kids don't know how much I love them and I worry that I smother them. I worry that my brothers and sisters don't know how much I love them let alone how much I enjoy each of them and their fabulous choices in spouses. I worry that I am a bad friend and don't spend enough time on my friendships. I worry that my kids don't get to spend enough time with their grandparents. I worry that they won't know their cousins as well as I wish they did. I worry that my husbands family doesn't know how much I love them and wish that we were closer. I could go on and on. But, right now my biggest worry is this little man. This sweet wonderful beautiful amazing funny little boy.

What can I do for him? He's struggling in school. He's so smart but so easily distratracted. His teacher rides him that gets him down. We have to ride him at home and that makes him sad. He makes friends but often tells me that kids are mean to him. How is he not the most beloved child at the school. I want him to be blissfully happy. I want to make everyone see in him what I see. Any ideas? I'm worried about him.

Mr. Matt is having a birthday

2009-09-22T10:22:00.000-07:00

BEFORE:

2008 circa Matt's birthday

AFTER:

2009 circa Matt's birthday

What a difference a year makes. Happy Birthday Matt! We are so happy to be celebrating this birthday with you. It definately beats last year. We love you!!!

We Got a Dog Fight Here!

2009-09-19T14:42:00.000-07:00

For those of you that know Nikki, you know that she is grumpy and doesn't care for other dogs. She especially hates to play or rough house with them. That's what makes this so funny. Cooper (the new puppy) won't leave her alone. I think he's worn her down enough that she'll actually play with him. Enjoy the video Mom!

Let's do it for Johnny!

2009-09-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

Matt and I watched The Outsiders last night. And after viewing it for the the first time in a fairly long time I have to say, that I was right. Yep you heard me right, it's way better than Dirty Dancing. Way better!

Reprimand

2009-09-15T16:44:00.000-07:00

I was chided, via email (so cowardly), for not giving my shout out to Patrick Swayze. So here goes, Dirty Dancing I could take or leave and I'm certainly not a fan of Roadhouse, but if you want to see Patrick Swayze at his hunkiest may I suggest The Outsiders. Mr. Swayze as Darryl the oldest of the Curtis brothers, he was a fine speciman of muscles. Seriously, check out those guns.

It's birthday season

2009-08-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

This is the time of year we like to call birthday season. Emma and Ryne have their birthday the end of August then Kate the beginning of September followed by Matt the middle of September and my birthday the beginning of October wraps it all up. Did I mention our anniversary is the middle of August. So this year we decided to get the kids one present they can all share. Lest you think we our lousy, thoughtless, mean parents please check out the present:

This is Cooper Karpowitz. Each of our kids asked for a puppy for their birthday, not one of them thought they would get one. We suprised them on Saturday and they are all in love. He is a great puppy, he sleeps through the night and goes to the back door when he has to go to the bathroom. Matt and I are in love with him. Our older and grumpier dog Nikki is not in love and hates this little dog. Oh well you can't make everybody. Happy birthday kids!

Men's Campout 2009

2009-07-23T15:56:00.000-07:00

Much to my horror this is what I found on my camera after the Men's Campout. No wonder he had so much fun.

300

2009-06-04T18:05:00.000-07:00

Now I am not a major fan of professional sports but I do love I repeat LOVE baseball and this player in particular. Way to go Big Unit! http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090604/ap_on_sp_ba_ga_su/bbn_giants_nationals

Try to keep up

2009-06-02T11:31:00.000-07:00

So I was looking at all the pictures on my camera and decided it was time to document our activities on the blog. Here goes in no particular order:

We went to Utah and got to visit with lots of family but most importantly cousins.

Kate was in her class play, she was a villager

We went to the shark reef during spring break

We went hiking over spring break

We went to the the LV ghetto zoo (lots of chickens)

Bought these eggs, can you guess which one is the girl egg?

Washed one of Ryne's feet (Vegas is dirty in so many ways)

Emma was a rat in her class play

Ryne was humpty dumpty in his class play

Ryne's friendly letter to his cousin Jacob it reads, Dear jakob are you doing good at school? I hate when Sarah tickles me. Do you hate when Sarah tickles you? I got some new toys. Your friend, Ryne. The best part about this, he LOVES when Sarah tickles him.

I got one of the best Mother's day's ever.
I think that about catches me up. Next up, SUMMER!!!

Tessie, enjoy!

2009-05-31T09:23:00.000-07:00

My friend Tessie and I were driving home from a baby shower yesterday, and she told me something I think I needed to hear. She told that this was an blog intervention that I needed to post and change my lame Easter background. So this is my first of many posts and enjoy the new background.

A few weeks ago my sister Sarah got into my brother Andy's blog and made some much needed changes. She included a lot of fun pictures but his one did not make it. I love this picture, this picture is from one of my high school dances. I cropped the actual subjects of the picture out so you could see what weird things Andy (or commonly known as Drew) is doing off to the side. That kid is always a laugh!

"It's a real shame when folks be throwin' away a perfectly good white boy like that"

2009-04-11T16:08:00.000-07:00

Each Wednesday night Matt and I take turns picking out a movie for the 2 of us to watch. We only have three rules:

1. The other person can't complain about the movie until it's over

2. It has to be a movie that we enjoyed growing up

3. It can't be rated R

Those are the rules these are the movies we have watched so far

We have come to the realization that some of the movies we loved are in fact stupid, whereas others (Better off Dead) are still awesome.

But now the point of my post, it's my turn this Wednesday to come up with a movie. I NEED HELP! Any suggestions would be great tell me the movies you remember loving and for all of you who suggest Goonies and I can't do it and here's why I've never seen the whole movie. I know gasp and be shocked but it's the truth.

** sidenote: Can you guess who picked which movies and what movie the title of this post is from?

Add on: Oops, I forgot to include this one, it was our first movie:

They are listening

2009-04-06T10:22:00.001-07:00

Kate, Emma and Ryne

Emma came into my room this morning crying because she couldn't find her favorite stuffed animal, Lizzy. My advice to her was to keep looking and she would turn up. On the way out of my room Kate suggested to her that they say a prayer. After the prayer Emma told Ryne she was sad because she still hadn't found Lizzy. Ryne's response to her was "you have to do your part you can't just pray and expect it to show up you need to look for her." Not two seconds later Emma cried out, Oh there she is. And Ryne goes, see I told you, you have to do your part. I talk all day long and wonder if they are getting any of it, I guess they are.

P.S. Emma and Kate also knelt down and gave a prayer thanking Heavenly Father for helping them find Lizzy. Great Kids!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-15T20:34:00.000-08:00

I stole this from my brother-in-law Joel's blog. He posted this last Valentine's Day and I laughed so hard I nearly wet my pants. Enjoy!

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Question of the Day
From an 11th grader:

"Mr. K, what are you going to do to your wife on Valentine's Day?"

[Awkward pause]

"I mean for."

Tough Times

2009-02-12T12:21:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Jenn's older brother Andrew was in a very serious car accident this week. He and his family need a lot of prayers, please join us in as we pray for his recovery and for his family as they wait. Thank you!

May She Rest in Peace

2009-02-09T09:37:00.000-08:00

Well this morning I almost died leaving Matt alone to care for three children. Here's what happened: I went into Emma's room to look for something in her closet, discovering it was not there I turned to leave. Now, picture a dollhouse school bus, as I was leaving I stepped on said school bus and proceeded to roll across the floor. While flying throught the air I tried to get my balance and get off the bus and in the process of doing this I stepped on a polly pocket car and flew even farther. My trail of terror ended when I crashed into and tripped over the house to which these cars belong. I think from now on I will just stay in my own room.

Look What We Got This Weekend

2009-02-06T12:37:00.000-08:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I love living someplace people want to visit. This last weekend Christy, Wynn and Gracie came for a visit. We had so much fun thanks for coming guys and come back soon.

Jazz Hands

2009-02-06T11:50:00.000-08:00

The kids in Emma and Ryne's class are putting on a show for the school this month. Emma has been practicing a lot. So the other day I got a secret video of the singing, she's got skills!

Parental Guidance is Suggested

2009-01-27T21:15:00.000-08:00

Ok so Matt and I set up some internet security on our computers the other day because something questionable came up when Kate was looking up Harry Potter. The next day I tried to access my blog and it wouldn't let me without a password because apparently my blog is not suitable for all ages. With that in mind I give you more trouble with Kate and four letter words. Here's the background: In school the kids have been learning about Chinese New year. On day one they had Chinese food and they had fortune cookies. That night, for homework, they were supposed to make their own fortune cookies to give to their families and they were supposed to say something kind on them. This is what Kate's said -

Can't read it? I'll translate, "I love you, so here is a fuchin cookie." Ahh such kind words. Happy Chinese New year everybody and I hope you enjoy many "fuchin" cookies.

M-I-C-K-E-Y

2009-01-25T09:49:00.000-08:00

Guess what we did? We went to Disneyland this weekend. We promised the kids that we would go when we moved here, but then one life threatening illness after another and we still hadn't gone. So, the kids had Friday off from school and we decided it was time. It rained pretty much the entire time we were at Disneyland but it kept the lines short and we had so much fun. Ryne wasn't sure he was having a great time on all of the rides and tried to convince us that it was time to go home. I think he got the amusement park stink gene from Gran. On Saturday we went to the beach. When we woke up it was pouring rain but, by the time we made it to the beach the sun was out and it was lovely. This is the first time that my kids had ever been to the ocean. The waves took them out a couple of times and we saw a dead pelican on the beach, they loved it. Kate and Ryne thought the beach was even better than Disneyland. In fact Kate found a house across the street from Huntington Beach and can't believe we won't buy it. It was a great weekend!

New Years!

2009-01-25T09:25:00.000-08:00

We love living here people come visit us, it's fabulous! The Moulder's came for New Years we went to a place called Opportunity Village and in it was a Magic Forest. They had a carousel, train, and an alpine slide. It was a little strange but the kids loved it.

Christmas

2009-01-25T09:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day

Christmas Eve

I know that I am so slow but here are our pictures from Christmas. We had a really fun Christmas and my parents were able to come the Henderson. This was the first Christmas with my parents in something like 8 years. We had a great time.

Tessie Tagged Me - Tag #4

2009-01-20T07:51:00.001-08:00

Here is how the tag works, go to your 4th picture folder and then your 4th picture explain it and tag four people, here goes:

This is a picture of our last day in our house in Kansas. The truck was packed and we were loading stuff into the van when we looked across the street and saw our little neighbor Aurora. She was very sad, my kids ran over to say goodbye and I think this is when it hit them that we were moving. There were many tears. It was a sad day. We loved our time in Kansas our kids had great friends who we still miss very much.

There you have it, I tag Sarah, Amanda, Maria and Kristin.

I love this boy

2009-01-06T14:57:00.001-08:00

Here is a conversation Ryne had with my dad on Christmas Eve:

Ryne: Sneeze
Papa Al: Ryne you just sneezed on my food.
Ryne: Well what do you expect Papa Al, I have a sore throat.

Needless to say my parents are both now sick. With what you may ask? A sore throat and they are sneezing.

Ryne's favorite pictures

2008-12-23T09:56:00.001-08:00

Ryne wanted to make a slideshow too, have fun watching.

Emma's favorite pictures

2008-12-23T09:20:00.001-08:00

Emma made this slide show, enjoy!

who does Emma look like

2008-12-22T17:50:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Black and white photographs - Family reunion

Do you agree?

who does Kate look like

2008-12-22T17:45:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Family tree - Genealogy - Celebrity - Collage - Morph

I should have put in aunt Jenni's picture, that's who Kate really looks like.

who does Ryne look like

2008-12-22T17:38:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Free genealogy search - Free genealogy

He definately does not look more like me, look at those two!

Oh the first (and hopefully ONLY) snow fall of the winter

2008-12-17T18:21:00.000-08:00

We are supposed to get 12 inches of snow! I think Christmas vacation will be starting early.

Husband Tagged

2008-12-09T13:03:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by my friend Amanda, read on and learn a little more about my hubby.

5 Things he loves

1.His family
2.Jayhawk Basketball
3.The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
4.Reading
5.Laughing

5 Things on his to do list

1.Get his MBA
2.Clean the garage
3.Get furniture on Craig's list
4.Hang up Christmas lights
5.Work on his Gospel doctrine lesson

5 Foods he enjoys

1.Steak
2.Salmon
3.Ice cream
4.Clam dip
5.Corn on the cob

5 Things you may not know about him

1.Was a theatre major in college (briefly)
2.Loves movies of all kind
3. Was called to serve a mission in Brazil but ended up in Boston
4.He nearly passed out after the twins were born
5.He is fiercely loyal (especially when it comes to the Jayhawks)

5 places he has lived

1.Kansas
2.Utah
3. Boston
4. Texas
5. Nevada

Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T09:49:00.000-08:00

Did everyone have as fun of a Thanksgiving as we did? My whole family was there, all my brothers and sisters and spouses and nieces and nephews and my mom and dad. It was fantastic and we all had so much fun. Happy Thanksgiving now on to Christmas!!

You Say It's Your Birthday

2008-11-20T21:30:00.001-08:00

It's Sarah's birthday, if you want to wish her a happy birthday go here. What can I say about Sarah, she's a fabulous mom and a fantastic aunt and a great sister. My son Ryne is a little bit in love with her. She can torture, tease, tickle and harass him and he laughs with delight. I try any of that and he goes ballistic. Sarah you are the greatest and I love you! Happy birthday we'll see you tomorrow.

A death in the family

2008-11-13T11:01:00.000-08:00

Kate woke up this morning and told me that she thought there was something wrong with Spotty. She was right, Spotty the Frog passed away this morning. It was a sad day for the kids. Kate and Emma took it especially hard. Ryne kept saying he guessed he and Garett (a buddy of his) would have to find something else to play. Here's to you Spotty, you loved to jump on Nikki's head and freak her out, you scared just about every small child who thought they might want to hold you, you always peed on anyone who chose to pick you up, you loved to be behind the wheel of the Speed racer car. Buggy, the kids will miss you.

Spotty the Frog

Dec. 2007-Nov. 2008

Now I can take naps

2008-11-07T19:18:00.000-08:00

Before

After

Matt receiving his purple heart from Marianne

How many chemo's left? ZERO

It's over, chemo is over. Matt graduated from chemo today, we said good bye to his super sweet nurses and we all cheered. It's been a long six months but it was worth it. Matt is healthy and we are all happy. Thanks to everybody for your prayers and thoughts we couldn't have made it through the year of hell without you!

These are a few of my favorite things...

2008-10-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

Matt went in for his 11th chemo treatment today, for those counting only 1 more!!!

Kids who love to read

Matt taking the kids to school

Halloween (aka candy day)

Autumn leaves and a blue sky

My mom, it was her birthday yesterday. Happy birthday Mom!

Talking to old friends. My friend Chrystal called today she isn't in this picture but the side of her house is. She was the greatest neighbor and I miss her!
Happy kids

The joy of the first lost tooth (Ryne lost it yesterday after lunch)

Beautiful red watermelons!!

One More Medical Mishap

2008-10-11T13:04:00.000-07:00

Ryne with his splint
Ryne with his cast and crutches

Earlier this week Ryne fell off his bike and broke his leg. On tuesday he got his cast and today (Saturday) he got his crutches and is doing really well with them. Now he can go back to school next week!! As per Gran's request here are some pictures of Ryne and his little cast.

What?

2008-10-05T19:56:00.000-07:00

So today while we were doing a puzzle I had this conversation with Emma:

Mom: So Emma what's your plan?

Emma: My plan about what?

Mom: I don't know. Do you have a plan?

Emma: Yes, I have a plan.

Mom: What is it?

Emma: Well, we'll put a ball next to Daddy's side of the bed and then when he gets up he'll slip on it then he'll crash into the wall and then he'll trip over his backpack.

Mom: That's your plan?

Emma: Yep.

Mom: Have you been thinking about this for a while?

Emma: For years.

Watch your back Matt!

Hear Ye Hear ye

2008-10-04T11:30:00.000-07:00

Did you hear? Are you excited? There will be a temple built in the greater Kansas City area. That is fantastic! I know that we don't technically live there anymore but we still consider it home and we are thrilled. Way to go all of you who made an effort to attend the temple regularly it has paid off!

Well the leaves have come to turnin' and the goose has gone to fly

2008-10-01T08:08:00.001-07:00

October is here, how I love the month of October. But, I've had a problem with it for the last seven or so years. I couldn't enjoy it because I always knew that close behind was a long winter. I don't like winter, I don't like snow, I don't like ice storms or wind chill factors. I don't like seeing my breath or hacking coughs or any of it. Have I mentioned I don't like winter. But, I think I will be able to enjoy October in Henderson, NV. This is why:

http://www.weather.com/outlook/driving/interstate/monthly/USNV0040?month=1

Yeah, for fall!

p.s. Bonus points to those who can guess from what song my title has come.

You Say It's Your Birthday (4 days ago)

2008-09-26T14:05:00.000-07:00

It was this guys birthday on Monday. He turned 35 years old, and although I could list 35 things I love about him I won't. But I'll say this, 10 years ago he was a catch and 10 years later he still is. Love you Matt!

A shoo in for mother of the year!

2008-09-16T19:07:00.000-07:00

Atleast I made them wear helmets. Right?

Is that really me?

2008-09-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

So apparently this is what my name really means. What do you think?

What Leah Means

You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.

You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.

Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.

You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.

At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.

You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.

You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are truly an original person. You have amazing ideas, and the power to carry them out.

Success comes rather easily for you... especially in business and academia.

Some people find you to be selfish and a bit overbearing. You're a strong person.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

It's Great to be Eight

2008-09-07T18:24:00.000-07:00

I am a day late, yesterday was Kate's 8th birthday. We got to be with lots of family in Utah where Kate and her "twin" cousin Cami were baptized. Kate and Cami were born on the same day, one is Texas and one in New Jersey, just a few minutes apart. Here are 8 things that I love about Kate:

1. Kate is a pack rat her room is piled high with papers, drawings and all manner of stuff that I am forced to throw away while she is at school.

2. She is a very nice girl, she tries to always include people it makes her very sad to see someone left out. This includes her brother and sister.

3. Kate likes to test the boundaries, she especially likes to do this with four-letter words that she has heard. Always fun!

4. Kate is a great friend, I swear the girl gets more phone calls in one day than Matt and I get in a week.

5. Kate hates the sight of blood it evokes in her screams the likes of which I have never heard.

6. Kate is very allergic to all hairy creatures she also loves every animal she has ever come across. She tells me all the time that when she grows out of her allergies she is going to be a vetrinarian and a farmer.

7. She makes me laugh!

8. Kate tries her hardest to be good. With today being fast Sunday and she a newly baptized member of our church, I invited her to fast with Matt and me. She told me that she didn't think she would because she was very hungry, after a few minutes she told me she had thought about it and she would fast. She's a good girl and I am so happy to have her in our family

Happy Birthday Katie we love you!

And the winner is....

2008-09-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

Christy was correct, I was sustained today as the Primary President. HELP! I'm super excited about my presidency, they are going to be great. I liked all the guesses, I really hope one day to be the bread maker of the ward, I'm not sure what ward Kristin has been in that has a bread maker but it sounds tasty.

New Boundaries, New Ward

2008-08-31T21:14:00.000-07:00

So, our ward and many others in our stake were reorganized. We got our new Bishopric today and I got a new calling.......any guesses? If you know don't tell everyone else will find out Sunday.

I'm glad it's 2008

2008-08-29T17:18:00.000-07:00

As a 1930s wife, I am
Poor

Take the test!

Funny pictures

2008-08-28T10:35:00.001-07:00

I found these pictures the other day, they make me laugh.

And They're Off

2008-08-25T10:56:00.000-07:00

It was the first day of school today. The kids were excited, so was mom, but now I'm bored. Here's to boredom!!

This month is such a special one.....

2008-08-21T10:09:00.000-07:00

Six years ago today I had my twins, Matt had an anxiety attack and little Kate had a melt down. As scared as I was about the prospect of twins I can't imagine life without them. Here are six reasons why:
Emma:

1. She is the greatest cuddler. Her body molds into yours and it's beyond cozy, she has done this since birth.

2. She is a home body she just likes to be at home usually surrounded by blankets, stuffed animals and pillows.

3. She has a lot of empathy. It mostly appears when after much torment (given by Emma) her brother begins to cry.

4. She has a definate sense of style, I am not allowed to pick out her clothes. She asked for a halter top for her birthday, I think we have lived in Vegas too long.

5. She is funny and her laugh is even funnier it's deep and it's hearty. I love it.

6. She's a wonderful little girl, people want to be around her, and I love having her in our family.

Ryne:

1. He knows no strangers. He jumps into new situations with both feet and enjoys them.

2. Ryne makes sure that you know he loves you. At bedtime when you tell him you love him he says, "I love you too, I said I love you too" this continues until you say thanks or I heard you.

3. He is confused about the appropiate time to wear underwear. I have many times found him with undies underneath his swimming suit, and last night when Matt told him to put on pj's he said do I need to keep my underwear on.

4. The first thing he says to me each morning, "can I play the computer?"

5. Volume control is tough for him. The only time he uses a quiet voice is when praying and it's so quiet no one can hear him.

6. He is a fabulous little boy, he is so much fun to be with, I love that he is mine.

Happy Birthday Emma and Ryne we love you, did you hear me I SAID WE LOVE YOU!!!

Steve Miller Band w/ special guest Joe Cocker

2008-08-18T09:50:00.000-07:00

Picture it Overland Park, KS summer 2001 Matt and I had just recently moved into a new apartment and a new ward we decided it was time to make friends. One day a flier came around that was announcing the free summer concert series, listed was Steve Miller Band. I showed it to Matt we read it over and over. Yes indeed Steve Miller Band was coming to OP, KS and better yet it was free. We couldn't believe it, it was too good to be true. So we called the ward cool kids (this took a lot because as I have revealed I don't make phone calls). They were excited, yes they would come they love Steve Miller Band. Matt called his brother Joel, yes he would come, he loves Steve Miller Band. The big day arrived, when we got there we couldn't believe how few people were there and then they announced them "Steve Miller's Band" (yes you read it right) out comes 4 old guys with jazz instruments. It was a jazz quartet. Needless to say we left early ashamed and emabarrased :) So flash forward august 9th, 2008 and here we are at the real Steve Miller Band and it was awesome! Oh and by the way we never did become good friends with the cool kids.

If you look @ the bottom it says Steve Miller Band & Joe Cocker

I look a little excited

The first clip is Joe Cocker and the second is Steve Miller Band, it was a fun anniversary!

I'd give it a 10

2008-08-14T08:55:00.000-07:00

Today is a big day, Matt and I have been married for 10 years. With that in mind I thought I'd list 10 reasons I know Matt is the right guy for me:

1. Matt knows my need to be in control especially when the car is involved, so he whenever we leave the house he climbs into the passenger seat. Also, he makes the phone calls. I hate to make calls and Matt willingly does that for me.

2. I always wanted to have children with brown eyes, thank to Matt I have that.

3. Reading is very important to me, I love to read, I love to discuss books, and I want my kids to have a love of reading. On our first date Matt discussed books with me, I think I knew then. Now, I know I know it, when I watch him read Harry Potter every night to our kids. He even pushed through it yesterday when the chemo made his tongue go numb and he developed a lisp. Ha Ha good times, the kids couldn't stop laughing.

4. Matt is someone who gets the job done. Even if it's something he doesn't enjoy he sticks with it. I think of this every other Wednesday when I watch him head out the door for his chemotherapy. It's crappy but he does it and to top it off he doesn't complain.

5. Matt thinks I'm funny (can you believe it) and what's more he think my family is hillarious. He likes to be around my family, that's pretty cool.

6. Matt is a great provider, the man works very hard to see to it that we are being well cared for.

7. Matt believes that I'm not fat (please don't tell him the truth I'd hate to destroy the illusion).

8. Matt is fun and funny. The man makes me laugh, and he laughs all the time. It is crazy to him that I don't laugh out loud unless I find something to be hysterical. Matt laughs loud and hard at anything.

9. He's nice, probably one of the nicest people I know. He is compassionate, when the kids need that extra boost of understanding they go to Matt. His children love him very much and that is plain to see.

10. He is a good example of the unconditional love for his family (parents, siblings, in-laws, nieces and nephews, grandparents, wife and children friends) and the gospel.

I picked a good one. Happy anniversary Matt, I love you.

Falling in Love Again

2008-08-12T17:46:00.001-07:00

I'm going to let you in on a little secret....I have a temper. I am very quick to yell especially at my children. A few years back I vowed that I would stop yelling, I would use a calm voice and maintain control. And, I did well, for a while. Then somewhere between cancer and blood clots I allowed myself to start the yelling again. So, two weeks ago I vowed (again) that I was done yelling. It has been great. I know that I set the tone of our house and things have gotten so much better. I am falling in love again with these three beauties:

Have you ever seen such a mullet?

2008-08-10T14:09:00.000-07:00

Trippin'

2008-07-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

I always want to be with my own family and the Lord has shown me how I can

2008-07-25T12:29:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have those days, you know the one I mean where you wake up and you know something is wrong. There is that sick feeling in your stomach, but you can't remember what it is that is bothering you, and so against your better judgement you force your self to remember. You go over the events of your day and check it off as you do and then you remember. So I have been sad these last few days, quick to tears and quick to hug and love my children. Recently I read this post and my heart truly felt like it was breaking into pieces. It brought back the painful memories of losing our own little baby, Calvin Jonah. I then stumbled upon this blog and again my heart broke. What a sad time for these families, how I wish I could say what they need to hear hug them when they need to cry tell them how very sorry I am and how sad I feel. Instead I will say how grateful I feel to have the gospel and the knowledge that families will be reunited and be able to live together again. This isn't something that I just casually believe or hope is true, this is something that I know to be true, something that I cling to each day, and something that brings me great joy. When I read about these sweet families I was reminded of the scripture in Mosiah 18:9 we are told to be "willing to mourn with those who mourn; yea, and comfort those who stand in need of comfort." I am so grateful for our friends, loved ones and even acquaintances who have given us so much comfort, love and kindness.

Honey would I lie?

2008-07-23T20:57:00.000-07:00

So I'm starting to have some serious doubts about my new haircut. The other day while watching the parent trap with my kids Kate told me that my hair looked like Sharon and Susan's (please see below).When I asked Matt if my hair looked like that he said no, it looked more like "his" (please see below). He swears he meant it as a joke.

Then, a couple of days later while sitting outside eating an ice cream cone with my kids Emma turns to me and tells me my hair looks like Draco Malfoy's (please, again, see below).
What the devil?

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-04T09:07:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a very happy Independence Day, one of the greatest holidays of the year (2nd only to Christmas). I love the fireworks, the warm weather, the cook outs, the time with family but I especially love the reminder of the great country in which we live. Here are some pictures of the our 4th of July last year:

I guess I'm it

2008-07-02T16:55:00.000-07:00

I got tagged the other day by my friend Jared (that's him in the corner of the picture at one of the many youth activities we attended) so here goes:

1. If you could do anything name the top two things you would do: I would be a James Taylor roadie and I would buy a bunch of land and make a big compound for all of our friends and family to live on then we could be close to everyone we love.

2. What kind of animal would you be and why: I would be a dog owned by my parents because that is one sweet life.

3. Top 5 favorite movies: I'm not a big movie watcher but I think they would be To Kill a Mockingbird, Mean Girls (very fugly I mean funny), Parent Trap, Room With a view, Cat On a Hot Tin Roof

4. If you won the 10 million Powerball what 5 things would you do: Pay off any debt we have, Buy our compound, Get a tummy tuck, Hire a chef, Buy a vacation home in San Diego.

5. Top 5 favorite holiday moments: When Ryne got his train set and wouldn't unwrap any other presents, Going to the 4th of July parade in Danville, Ca., My dad buying matt and me a tree for Christmas because we were so poor, Matt's family coming for Thanksgiving when we lived in Texas I got to know Beth and Wendy and they are hillarious, Each Christmas when my kids wake up so excited!

6. name your top two favorite "National Lampoon" moments: Christmas Vacation when the neighbors ask Clark where he's going to put a tree that big and he responds, "bend over and I'll show you" it makes me laugh just typing it, the original vaction when he drags the dog. I love those movies.

7. 5 bad habits: spending too much time blogging, biting my nails, folding clothes but not putting them away, setting the phone down wherever then when I need it I can't find it, yelling at all the crappy drivers around me why can't everybody be a good driver like myself.

8. 5 jobs you've had: Gas station attendant at The Olde Town Arco, Clerk at Rakestraw Books, Nanny, Data Entry at Western Watts, and Mom.

There you have it, I tag anyone that wants to be tagged, have fun!

P.S. Jared and Amanda - I hope everything goes well next week, we can't wait to see the baby!

Oh What Do You Do In The Summertime?

2008-06-23T15:27:00.000-07:00

Oh what do you do in the summer time
when all the world is green?

Do you get your hair cut?

Or sit on your butt?

Or climb at the park so high?

Is that what you do? So do I!

And The Award Goes To.....

2008-06-18T20:49:00.000-07:00

Kate - Courage Award
Emma - Citizenship Award
Ryne - Courage Award

I hate to always have to say it, but I have the three greatest kids in the world. They had it rough, we moved to a new town, they started a new school (in the middle of the school year no less), their dad went into the hospital, and then he went in again. But, amid all this craziness they adjusted incredibly well. I was suprised when I started getting notes home, from both teachers that all three of my children were getting awards. They were in school for a total of six weeks and impressed their teachers so much that they earned these awards. Way to go kids!

Ryne's Reprimand

2008-06-02T11:54:00.000-07:00

I'd like you all to meet my son Ryne. Ryne is a typical boy in a house full of girls, he often thinks he gets the short end of the stick. So here's my story: The other day while driving home from school I slammed on my breaks to avoid hitting a dumb bike riding child (who chose to turn her bike directly in front of my van) and in the process Kate dumped her bottle of water in my purse. So a couple of days later the twins and I were at the store and I was shopping for a new purse. Ryne says to me "what are you getting?" I respond, "I have to get a new purse my other one got ruined." There is no response here and I can tell Ryne is thinking about something. A little while later Ryne says, "Do you like to buy new stuff for yourself?" I say, "Sometimes." Ryne says, "I like to get new stuff too, but I never get to because you always spend our money on stuff for you!" Ouch, but seriously folks I'm not much of a shopper and he gets plenty.

Do You Have A Minute?

2008-05-28T16:39:00.000-07:00

Lest you think all we ever do is have tragedies and Dr.'s visits I thought I would share with you some of what we did over the last few weeks.

1. We traveled from our home in Kansas to my parent's home in Utah, en route to our final destination VIVA LAS VEGAS!

2. When we got the Utah we played with cousins and decorated easter eggs. The kids had so much fun, there is something special about cousins.

3. We got to have an Easter egg hunt with just about everybody (we missed Kirsten, Travis, Elijah and Josh).

4. Matt and I got to go to Florida where Matt received an award for all the wonderful work he does for Embarq.

if you look closely you can see an alligator
5. We went to the Dinosaur Museum to celebrate Wynn's 4th birthday!

6. This was not fun, Matt's Grandma Dorothy passed away, we were all very sad but happy that we were able to see many people we love.

7. Last but not least we arrived in Las Vegas and had lots of visitors, we hope to have a lot more. Anyone that wants to come please know that you are always welcome to stay with us.

See we really do have good things happen to us!

Yeah or nay?

2008-05-21T11:07:00.000-07:00

This is the haircut I will be getting for the hot Las Vegas summer (incidentally it was 109 degrees yesterday and 107 the day before). Do you like it? And, when I ask just tell me yes since I'll be getting the cut no matter what.

A Big Shout Out to the Ottawa Ward

2008-05-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

O - one of a kind
T - thoughtful
T - truly a blessing
A - Amazing
W - Wacky & fun
A - always a good time

W - willing to help
A - A great ward
R - really great friends
D - DYNOMITE!!

I have been in the process of writing this post for a number of days now, but it's been hard, how do you properly express your gratitude? I don't know either but here goes. Have you ever been in a ward that truly felt like family. The ward we left in Kansas was that kind of ward. We had such a hard time leaving our friends there. Shortly after we got to Las Vegas I was driving to Wal Mart and crying because I knew I wouldn't bump into any of them at the store. It was pretty much a given I would see one of my ward family members at Wal Mart. Sounds silly I know, but this is such a great ward. Friday when I got the mail, there was a card in it from our Ottawa ward, expressing their wish to help us during Matt's illness. They sent us restaurant gift cards and money for meals, beacuse as they said they couldn't bring us meals so this was how they wanted to help. I can't express how much that meant to us. You guys are the best and we love you all. Thanks our Ottawa Ward Family!

Agent Fax Moulder

2008-05-16T08:38:00.000-07:00

My brother (from another mother) in law Faxon said he bet I didn't have any funny pictures of him to post, he was wrong. This is Fax with his college band "Merit Badge" My favorite part besides Fax's cool tatoo is the dagger in the pizza box. Fax as always you kill me. If you click on the picture you can make it bigger and see it better.

Sicky Update

2008-05-15T11:58:00.000-07:00

Matt is doing very well, he went to the Dr. today and the fluid on his lung is decreasing. He's been up and moving around and working. So far so good.

GG is also doing very well. She was responding last night to the nurses, around midnight they did another CT scan. It looked good and they took GG off the breathing tube, so, this morning she was talking. They are giving her ice chips today and if she can tolerate those they will be taking her off the feeding tube.

That's all for now we are feeling very blessed thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers.

GG

2008-05-14T18:17:00.000-07:00

Hi all, for those of you who know my sister Gretchen I wanted to let you know that this morning during a walk a thon she collapsed and had a seizure. They rushed her to the hospital and did a CT scan. From there they found out that there was some bleeding on her brain. The bleeding turned out to be a brain aneurysm (did I spell that right?). She was immediately taken to surgery. The aneurysm was on the surface and only bled once so that is very good. She is out of surgery and they said the surgery went well. Very scary situation but we are so glad that they were able to get to the problem in time. I'll keep you all posted, we are praying for a quick recovery and for her sweet family.

When upon life's billows

2008-05-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

I was thinking that it is time to count my blessings:

1. Matt is home from the hospital and doing well. Yeah!!

2. We have wonderful family and friends so eager and willing to help us out, those who came: Sarah, Chris, Diane, Mom, Gretchen and Dad. Those who called emailed and sent cards and well wishes: all of our brothers and sisters and dear friends. You guys are the best we love you all.

3. The power of prayer and the priesthood. What great comfort that brought us.

4. Three great kids who make life fun.

5. Public school for when those great kids weren't making life fun.

6. Papa Al who delighted my children when they painted his toenails while he "slept"

7. Having a Mother's Day with my mom, I haven't had that for atleast 10 years.

8. My children and the effort they put forth to make sure the I had a nice Mother's day even though Matt wasn't around.

They made the signs out of paper towels

9. The beautiful weather, when all else fails sit in the sun!

10. A ward that doesn't even know us has stepped up and has not ceased to help in every way they can.

11. Cars, as many times as we had to go back and forth from the school and the hospital I became acutely aware of how blessed we are to have not one but two cars, it would have been very difficult to go where I needed to go on foot.

12.Matt's job, who have been so understanding and continue to pay us even though Matt has not been there in a while.

13. Doctors who knew what to look for and take care of the problems they found in poor Matt.

14. A sweet husband, who in the midst of all that was happening to him was more concerned for us at home.

15. And back to #1 Matt is home, YEAH!!

We have been very blessed and are so grateful. Thanks again to all of you who have kept our family in your thoughts and prayers.

He's back

2008-05-08T10:54:00.000-07:00

Well Matt is back in the hospital. Last night he was having some serious pain in his back that traveled to his chest and difficulty breathing, so we took him into the Emergency Room. They ran many tests and it turns out that he has a blood clot in each of his lungs. Blod clots can be common after major surgery, they have him on a blood thinner and pain meds. He seems to be doing a little better now we just wait for the clots to dissolve. Thanks again to everyone for your thoughts and prayers we'll keep you posted. Here are some pictures from the lastest trip to the ER I did ask him if he cared whether or not I posted his picture and I got the ok.

Hip Hip Hooray

2008-05-02T12:16:00.000-07:00

This is my dear friend Amanda. Why is she so special that she gets a whole post dedicated to her? She did something that I never thought I would see. She commented on my blog. For those of you out there that read but won't comment this to could be you. Thanks Amanda you da bomb!

What the @#$#% Holy %^(##

2008-04-30T22:59:00.000-07:00

This is Kate. Kate is the epitome of a good girl, she sings primary songs she reminds us to read our scriptures and say our prayers. She makes sure that we all say goodness instead of gosh because it's just too close to the other word. With that having been said here is my story:

My mother-in-law Diane and I picked up the kids from school and drove home I stopped at the mailbox and got out of the car, as I was getting out Kate says and I quote, "what the hell are you doing?" Diane and I looked at eachother (trying not to laugh) and I said, thinking maybe I heard her wrong, "what did you say?" She answered me (enunciating every word), "I said what the hell are you doing?" It was crazy, I told her I would rather she said heck. Over and done with right, wrong.

About one hour later, the kids were coloring and something fell and made a loud crash. Kate peeks her head over the banister looks at me and says, "what the hell was that." I officially have a potty mouth living in my house. Good times!!

What a week we're having

2008-04-27T20:59:00.000-07:00

I borrowed this from Matt's blog I thought it was better coming from him. Thanks for everyone's prayers and all the help that has been given. We love you guys!

Incredible Week
Well, it has been a very strange and interesting last two weeks. Really, one of the strangest, scariest and most blessed of my entire life. Let me do this Soap Opera style -

Previously, on Matt's life. . .Okay, so two weeks ago, we were in Utah at my Grandma's funeral. We left the Beehive state on Tuesday and arrived in sunny Las Vegas later that day. I wasn't feeling great that day and Leah made the entire drive herself. She said she wanted to see if she could do it, but I suspect she didn't trust me behind the wheel at the time. I was totally exhausted from packing the car. I mean, I could barely get the suitcases into the car and was simply "dead on my feet". I don't have any idea how I got the cartop carrier on and filled. I would move a bag up, then sit down in the car and rest for five minutes. It was ridiculous. But, we made it to Henderson, signed the papers for our house and settled down campout style that night.

The new VP of sales was coming in on Wednesday night and my boss wanted to make sure we had everything ready. However, the movers were coming on Wednesday morning and I had to be there to sign for everything. I finally got into work on Wednesday afternoon and got things ready for the next few days, caught up on emails, etc. Again, I got home and was just exhausted. Except for feeling under-dressed on Thursday and Friday (all my nice clothes were still in boxes), the visit with the VP went well. Each night, after work, I came home and just fell into bed. I'm sure the kids thought I was the laziest person on the face of the earth, but I literally had no energy. I felt awful, but just assumed that as soon as things got back to normal, I would pickup.

Saturday, Leah and Sarah (visiting with her kids from Utah to help with the unpacking) decided to give me a day of rest. I slept almost the entire day. I was totally lazy. By the end of the day, I thought things were going better. I was excited for Church the next day and to meet our new ward. I didn't feel perfect, but I felt better. Until that night. Overnight, things got really bad. My stomach started really hurting. I threw up a few times and couldn't keep anything down. We'd eaten Chili's for dinner, so I thought maybe I overdid it, but I was in lousy shape. Sunday morning, I decided I would rest while everyone else went to Church. Then I decided I was being ungrateful and needed to go to Church. So, I got up and showered and got in my suit. I came downstairs and Church was going to be starting in about five minutes. I couldn't get my shoes on. It was too painful and exhausting to lean over. We decided to go to the doctor, instead of Church.

Bad to Worse Sarah took the kids and Leah and I left to find a hospital. The first thing we spotted was the urgent care, so we went there. I was in terrible pain - was having trouble standing. Leah checked me in and the doctor came and took a look. He said, "You should have gone to the emergency room. Look out the window - it's right there." So, after assuring us that we'd get right in, he sent us next door. We sat in the waiting room for an hour. I even said to Leah that we should just go home and make and appointment with someone. Finally, they called me in and started checking things out. The pain and discomfort had grown pretty bad - I was at a 10 on the pain scale. They decided to admit me - I think really just to see if they could get the colitis flare up under control. In fact, on Sunday, when they took me to my room, there's this little white board with who's your nurse, treatments, etc. One of the categories is "What's Important". I told them to get back home to get to work as soon as possible. You see, this past week was going to be busy. I had been building up to it really since I was hired for this job back in February. Two huge events were to take place, with meetings and dinners starting Tuesday night. First, my boss has spent the past several months working out some partnering arrangements with Sprint in Las Vegas (remember, I work for Embarq, not Sprint. Sprint = wireless. Embarq = wireline. Not quite that simple, but good enough for this blog.) So, there were a couple of things I needed to do for these meetings - plus attend a lead team dinner on Tuesday night and the big meeting on Wednesday. My boss would be in San Diego until Wednesday, so I was to take the lead. Then, Thursday and Friday was our first ever West Pacific Quarterly Sales Leadership Meeting, to be held at the TPC Summerlin. This was my baby. I had been working on agendas, logistics, presentations, etc. for about two months. We had about 15 presenters coming in for Thursday's session - all of them people I wanted to meet with. We had a big dinner planned for Thursday night. Friday would be the sales team only and I was working with the sales managers on what they would need to present to the boss. It was a big deal. I didn't feel like I could miss it.

Well, I missed it. I was in the hospital on Sunday night. At one point, during the night, the pain was so intense, I was literally praying in my bed and pleading for my own life. I was pleading with the nurses for help with the pain. I know they did all they could for me, but I was really struggling. Monday, the pain began to subside, but I knew I wasn't going anywhere until they did some tests. I just assumed the colitis has flared really bad, but would back off and I get on a different mix of medications. They scheduled a CAT scan on my abdomen and I waited. About three o'clock, I had the CAT scan and came back to my room. They even offered me the clear liquids diet and I had some frozen lemonade, apple juice and a delicious Italian ice. I figured we were on our way. At five o'clock, they took away any food and put me back on ice chips. They said I had a perferated colon and needed surgery. At seven o'clock, it became emergency surgery. They suspected it had begun to leak. By eight o'clock, I was in the OR. And then I slept.

Tuesday arrived with lots of pain. Here's what we learned. The large intestine had torn slightly. I had been leaking into my body. There was a mass the size of a grapefruit on my colon. The doctor had removed the entire colon and I was now colitis free. We weren't sure if the mass was cancer or not, but the surgeon was confident he had removed all the dangerous tissue and residue. I was going to be okay. I was in a lot of recovery pain. My life would be forever changed. If we'd waited even 48 hours more, I probably would have died. That was a terrifying statement for me.So, there you have it.

Now it's Sunday, the 27th. I missed all the meetings. I am still in the hospital. The mass was cancer, but right now there don't seem to be any worries about that. I'm surviving the recovery, though I am really bored sitting in this bed or in the chair or walking the hall. I'm really not very patient, but I'm trying to be a good patient, if you know what I mean. The next few weeks will be exhausting - at least a week of home recovery before I can go back to work. Fortunately, I work a desk job, so it will be manageable. Just lots to recover from.

I am really grateful for all the love and support we've received over the past week. Sarah stayed until Tuesday. My brother Chris came on Tuesday and basically just sat with me and talked while I was trying to breathe through the pain. He was here to ask questions of the doctors and support me so much. Leah's mom and sister came on Friday and left this morning. My mom is coming on Tuesday. I've had countless calls and cards and shows of support. I've had prayers and fasting and blessings from people who have never met me. We have really been taken care of. I'm sure I can't express the gratitude and love I feel at this time. It's overwhelming.The Lord truly has a plan for each of us. We have no idea what that plan entails. I've been learning that lesson again this week. I do know this - he is aware of me and my family. He is watching our for all of us. His timeline and will and different than mine. He is truly my Savior. He spared my life in this process. Things happened, really beginning months ago, to put us in a place where this last week I had doctors ready to act. He knew we wouldn't be moving into the house in Southwest Las Vegas. He knew we would spend three weeks in Utah. He knew my Grandma would pass before we came to Las Vegas. He knew and He knows. I have to learn to trust that. Leah and I are truly blessed. I am so blessed by Leah and the strength and power she has. She lifts me up and makes me better. I'm sure I'll have more to say about all this in the coming weeks and months. I'll try to give you some sports, too, so you aren't totally grossed out by all the medical stuff. Feel free to drop us a line. There are many of you who have reached out to us this past week and I hope you don't feel too ignored. Things will get back to normal. But they'll always be a little bit different