Life on the Sunny Side of the Street

Snips and Snails...

2009-07-01T11:07:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there were three little boys who loved to play...

Through the ups...

And the downs...

But because they were little boys, they were gross and disgusting, as all little boys are. So this happened...

So this happened...

And I shall live happily ever after on the bribe money I will receive when these little boys grow up and get girlfriends.

The End

All by my shelf

2009-06-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

It's official. My husband rocks. This was my mothers day gift which he made with his own two mitts. And even though our son picked up some choice phrases over the process, and we nearly had to seek marital counseling over the hanging of it, it is beautiful and I love it.

Thanks so much Chano.

To Jess, on her Birthday

2009-06-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday my darling friend! I hope you have a great day, are spoiled rotten, and able to forget that we are now officially in a way less cool demographic.

This year is not only a big birthday, but also markes the 10 year anniversary of when you left Ricks and Heritage Manor, #108. In fact, when I think about it we only lived together for of 7% our lives, doesn't it seem like more?

All I know what that there was magic in those days, and a huge part of that was because of you. Lke the song says, "Beause I knew you, I have been changed for good". Without a doubt, I know that I am better because of you (even though you are without a doubt the worst cusser I have ever encountered). I love you so much, and value your friendship as one of the best blessings of my life. Have a great day, and a great year.

Megan

Catching Up...

2009-05-29T09:39:00.001-07:00

I got really behind, so forgive my forever long post!

Hank loves nothing more than to go to the "man-store" (Home Depot) with his dad. Here they are picking out wood for our garden spot.

High-fiveing their own awesomeness!

About two weeks ago, Grandpa and Grandma treated the family to a few days in Seaside, Oregon. We had so much fun! We started by going to the zoo: Hank and Haylee staring down the polar bear.

All the grandkids, plus some more!

The Zoo boasted a train, so yes faithful readers, Hank got his first ride on a train. I dont think he stopped talking about it for a week later!

Afterwards, we got to meet the conductor. I'm sure Hank thinks that is the best job in the world!

Seaside socked in...but still lovely

Hank adopted one of Chloe's dolls. He made sure she was fed, and tucked her into Grandma's sweatpants for warmth. It was pretty cute-until he started making out with the doll and CPS came to take her away.

Go fly a kite!

Memorial Day Campout: Well, kindof. It was a campout until about midnight when Hank was relegated back to his own bed, and then it just became Shane and I sleeping on the floor.

Here he is doing his fake snoring.

Reverence is more than just quietly sitting.

A few years back, Shane watched as a nurse put an IV in my hand. When she left, he turned to me and I quote, "I would rather take a bullet in my brain then have an IV. A bullet in my brain." He should have mentioned that to his appendix.

At last, Hollywood gets it right!

Buzzzzz

2009-05-09T21:36:00.000-07:00

The buzz cut has a long and prolific history. Here are some examples:

Now anyone who has seen my boy in action, knows that he is a sweater. Not a sweater, but a sweat-er. He sweats like a dyslexic on Countdown. You have never seen a child sweat like this before. So- after much discussion, we decided to give Hank his first real summer haircut. Prepare yourself.

Before:

Are you ready?

After:

Hank was actually pretty upset, and refuses to look at himself in the mirror, Shane keeps looking at him and saying "I dont like it, I just dont like it" and I cried.

Hair grows back, right?

Catching Up...

2009-04-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

So I haven't posted in a while, and to curb the wrath of Nana, here are some of the latest....

Hank's Easter:

It was pretty windy Saturday afternoon, so we had an indoor Easter Egg Hunt this year. Last year, Hank was completely baffled by the whole experience, so it was fun to see him get into the action this year. In fact, he loved it so much, that Shane (the bestest dad around) had to re-hide the eggs about six times for Hank to re-find. I don't know who had more fun!

Hank's Big-Boy Bed:

Yes, we have made the change. Yes, I cried when we took down the crib. Yes, he thinks he is pretty hot stuff in his new bed.

Shane added the 2x4 after Hank fell out on night two. Now he rests with at least one eye closed (Chuck Norris style)

You will notice his sleeping companions, his Elmo cup and of course, Thomas the Freaking Train.

Where does he get those eye-lashes from?

And speaking of Thomas:

You will all be interested to know that Thomas the Freaking Train has now joined in our family prayers. We were sitting down for dinner, and in our family we hold hands when we pray at the table. So I grab Shane's hand, and he goes to grab Hank's, but Hank insists that Shane hold onto Thomas on one side and he hold onto the other. Yea, that prayer was a real spiritual experience. Do we seem like a family ready to be featured on Wife Swap?

This kid needs a sibling. Seriously.

My Aunt Lynn – The Most Christian Woman I Have Ever Known

2009-03-18T22:12:00.000-07:00

I am not a blogger. I have posted once on our family blog on our 8th wedding anniversary. I learned my lesson long ago not to leave messages on anyone’s blogs after leaving a post on my sister-in-laws Bethany blog after she posted about their family dog Cujo and a new trick. My post questioned if the d@#% dog was still alive. Even though I tried to retract my statement the damage was done, the post was now the property of the World Wide Web. This was a bad move for two reasons. First everyone in Megan’s family loves Cujo, (Mike being the exception)and second, twelve days after my message; Cujo left this life to wait for Anne, Bethany, Megan, Derek and Simon in dog heaven. I learned my lesson then, and vowed never to leave a message again. (For those of you who I have left messages for, please don’t mention them to Lynn).

This brings me to the reason why I am making a rare appearance in the blogging world…

While attending a family get together a while back, my dear Aunt (by marriage) Lynn out of the blue said that she still had not forgiven me for some horrible thing I had done. This could have been a number of things, but which one I had no idea.

My first thought was…“come on the Steelers Seahawks Super Bowl was years ago.” (I took the Steelers over the Seahawks and she should be mad at Jeremy Stevens, not me. Plus I walked away with $300 bucks, so let her be mad…A lesson I learned years ago, if you are a Seahawks fan you are in for a life heartache and pain. Wish I could force myself to do the same with those awful Crimson and Gray Cougars).

Before I could think of anything else she told me the reason for her ill feelings...

Last March Lynn paid “homage” to me in her blog by picking my beloved Kansas Jayhawks to win the NCAA College Basketball National Championship. (This is something I have done every year, for the past 15 plus years.) It was a nice post titled “I want to be like Bethany.” Granted she did direct the following question to me - Shane, they can't blow it so badly three years in a row can they????? She then shows a picture of a Jayhawk player wiping a “teardrop” out of his eye with the questions “Will this be me in a couple of weeks?” To which she answers, “If history has taught us anything…Yes.” What was I to say to that, and not sound like a cool-aid drinking Seahawk fan?

Lynn, with it being the second greatest time of the year again, it is time I give you the credit you deserve. With the Jayhawks knowing that the most Christian Woman Ever to Walk This Earth picked them to win it all, they had the power to grind out one more “W” then the other guys. As I watched Mario Chalmers shoot the three with just 2 seconds left to force overtime, I knew it was because you, the most Christian Women I have Ever Known, had picked them to win it all that his shot went in.

I want to thank you, Lynn, on the behalf of the following:

-For Megan, who, for the first time in her married life, did not have to watch her husband rant and rave, throw things and swear off ever picking the Jayhawks again, let alone ever filling out another bracket ever again...ever.

-For Henry, for not having to watch is old man fall to the floor and cry like he had just heard the news that Thomas and his Friends had each fallen off the island of Sodor.

-For our new TV, for not having to have a scar in the middle of the screen from the pen that went flying across the room when the Jayhawks lost to Bucknell, freaking Bucknell. Sorry about that old TV, you barely notice it.

-And most of all a sincere thank you from me. From that young boy that skipped church one Sunday morning because he was “sick” and turned on the TV and saw the Jayhawks play for the first time. From that moment on, the Jayhawks were my team. To the High School kid who cheered on his rival high school because future great Kansas center Scott Pollard played for them. To me now, finally having the chance to see one of my teams win the big one. All along there have been an abundance of talented Kansas teams to cheer on, but no matter how close they came, (make your free throws Nick Collison), they just could not get it done. That was until last year, when you, Lynn, saw the light, and joined

Rock, Chalk, Jayhawk!

So to try and mend our relationship (I hope it is not too late) I dedicate this rare post to you, Lynn. And in so doing implore you to pick the Jayhawks again this year.

Editor’s note: This year on paper I am picking Pitt to win it all. Come on, I have a title to defend.

2009-02-09T09:54:00.000-08:00

My son is obsessed. Let me say again, my son is obsessed. I don't know what magical power this little train holds over Hank. Maybe a subliminal message is being broadcast through the TV that commands children's' love and fealty. Maybe that happy blue paint is coated with candied heroin. Who knows? All I know is my son is obsessed.

Often the first words out of his mouth in the morning are "choo-choo" (right after, "Good morning Mother? How was your sleep? I didn't wake us up too early did I?"). He eats, sleeps and bathes with his train. He will throw down a slap fight to any child who comes too close to his train. He cries when his train pj's go in the wash.

Evidence of a problem: In nursery one Sunday, Hank discovers that the church isn't true, because there is no Thomas for him to play with among the toys. He is so distraught, that his sweet nursery leader Sis. Draney had to fashion him a play dough train in order to calm him down.

More evidence: Hank covering his face with train stickers. Is this the face of sanity?

Still more evidence: Saturday we went to Yakima to watch Shane's bro Seth coach a basketball game. We get out of the car and Shane tells Hank to leave the train in the car during the game. Realizing that Shane had basically just asked the Israelites to leave behind the Ark, I told the panicked Hank that he could bring his train in with him. Hank takes the train and I hear him say "Sorry, choo-choo...sorry choo-choo," over and over as he lovingly patted it like it was one of Lenny's mice.

I think if he had to chose between me and the train, he would pick the train, and his next choice would be the play dough train that Sis. Draney made.

My son is obsessed.

2009-02-02T08:36:00.000-08:00

Last week, Shane and I had the chance to go to Maui for a few days. It was a wonderful trip and we had such a blast. Get ready for an old-fashioned slide show!

Here we are on the plane...pale, and excited.

Literally within 10 minutes of checking into the hotel we were swimming in the pacific blue. Every evening at sunset the hotel does a cliff diving ceremony.

We were about a 10 minute drive to Lahaina, were you could get a burger and this view for about $8.

When we went to the car rental place, Shane was jumping for joy that we got a PT Cruiser. So this is me showing him how cool a car it can be...

And here's one for the ladies...

My favorite shade of blue!

Run Forrest, Run!

Yes, that is 32oz of Prime Rib on his plate. Eat your heart out Derek!

A Cabana With A View

Shane rediscovered his love of swimming in the ocean.

Thursday Shane had all day meetings, so I went into Lahaina and did the historical tours (making me the coolest nerd ever).

View of Front Street

This ship got washed up on the rock by a storm. We were fascinated by it!

The home of Reverend Baldwin, a missionary/doctor and hero to Lahaina. The tour was great, even though I almost cried when they said that James Michner's book was full of historical errors. I still love you Jerusha Bromley!

The Lahaina Fort, built when the drunken whalers would fire their cannons onto the town.

The Courthouse

At the Company Luau

Look at that face! He looks 10 years old!

Our last few minutes on the beach. I decided to take this rainbow as a good omen of a speedy return.

Back on the plane. A little less pale, very sad, but excited to see our boy.

I just want to thank Nana again for coming to stay with Hank. He was so happy that he didn't even notice we were gone! You are the best mom and Nana in the world and we love you so much!

Happy Birthday Hank! (and Nick and Joe)

2009-01-12T11:29:00.000-08:00

Hank celebrated turning 2 by having 2 birthday parties!

Here are pics from the family party:

Hank proudly showing off the shirts Grandma got him

Making it look easy. Thankfully Kamaikan's Coach was on hand to give pointers!

Hayley and Chloe get in on the action

King Hank

Hank's best friends Nick and Joe Peterson's birthdays are two days after his, and since they are all obsessed with trains, so we decided to have a Thomas the Train party for them. We invited their best gal pal Bailey and had a blast!

2008-12-27T09:01:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year! It was our first being home, just the three of us and I think we started (adapted) some great traditions.

But first, I must post this picture of my dear friend Nicole. She was dropping off her boys at my house while she went Visiting Teaching, and alas, got stuck in our driveway. You have never seen such a determined Visiting Teacher as Nicole, shoveling out her car with no coat and designer boots. Thanks to Jared and Berek for bailing us out!

Alright, on to Christmas. We decided to open up PJ's on Christmas Eve, and it was so fun. You may need to shield your eyes from the technicolor PJ's that Hank received. But they were the only Thomas the Train set at the store, and he loves them! He cried when we took them off the next day, and we have already washed them several times so he could wear them every night since.
Shane read us "Twas the Night Before Christmas"

Christmas morning Hank found a train set waiting under the tree!

He caught on to this pretty quick!

He loved the art easel Nana and Papa sent him.

After breakfast and some naps, we went over to the Johnson's to celebrate with the family.The kids played really well together!

Dylan was very nice to share his toy with Uncle Shane

Hank and Grandpa

The Nutcracker Sweet

2008-12-18T11:02:00.000-08:00

While Shane was out last night, Hank and I were cuddling on the couch. I noticed that PBS was showing a performance of "The Nutcracker". I turned it on, thinking Hank would give me 30 seconds before wanting Mr. Rogers instead. I was wrong. My son sat in abject (and silent) wonder, watching the show. He barely moved a muscle until the moment where the full size Nutcracker jumps out of the magic box. Hank jumps out of my arms, and literally starts imitating all the dance moves. I kid you not-he was marching, leaping, swinging his arms back and forth. He even tried a few double axles (none landed successfully). His face was of total focused concentration. It was hysterical. Shane came in a few minutes later so I rewound the show to the same part, with the same results.

I don't know what was funnier. Hank's moves, or Shane's obvious concern hiding behind a plastered on smile. Luckily, Shane was quickly able to think of a past Heisman Trophy winner who also danced ballet.

To be honest, if I knew my boy was destined to be a dancer, I don't know that I would have named him Hank. Maybe Hans, or Demetri or Meredith.

Susan B. Anthony is rolling in her grave...

2008-11-24T23:24:00.000-08:00

So tonight, Shane comes home about the usual time and just like always, I look at Hank and say "Guess who's home?". He normally runs over to give Dad a hug, but tonight he was very upset when Shane walked in.

Hank walks over to me, looks his Dad straight in the eye, points at me and says "Mine!' Not to be outdone by a 2 year old, Shane grabs me , stares down his son, and starts kissing and hugging me and crying, "Mine! Mine!"

This of course infuriates Hank, who tries to push us apart, but is being blocked out by his father..all the while screeching "Mine! Mine!"

And though I know that it sets feminism back several decades, I couldn't help but smile at being fought over by two handsome men.

Forgive me Mrs. Pankhurst!

Very Belated Pictures!

2008-11-20T13:04:00.000-08:00

So a few weeks ago, over Halloween weekend, my family had our reunion at Fort Wardon, WA. We had an amazing time...and here's the proof!

Uncle Derek was never too tired to color with Hank. Hank loves his uncle "Dek"

Smooth Criminals. Hank and Ethan went as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid for Halloween.

I didn't think it was possible, but Newman and Redford got out-cuted, big time!

The whole gang. We have Beckett as a Turkey, Caiden is a dragonfly, Gibson as a Giraffe, Maddie as a Lady bug, and our boys. This is the future fire-starters of Fort Wardon (though I don't think we're quite ready to pass the torch...)

My Boys

Family Olympics! Nothing says family like a ball of yarn, flying shoes, and Aunt Gail knifing everyone's balloons. Good times.

Hank being launched into the air by Derek. You can see from his face he hates every minute of it.

Hank, Dad and Derek waiting for the Ferry to come in.

Shane getting some cheek time with Ethan

Hank and his Papa.

This is so us. I should send it out with our Christmas cards...

Beagley Clan, 2008.

Tagged by the Most Christian Woman I ever met!

2008-11-13T11:29:00.000-08:00

8 Favorite TV Shows (in no particular order)

1. The Office (If you don’t like this show, I will attack you with the North)
2. Arrested Development ( I pee my pants when anyone says, “launch me!)
3. The Amazing Race (CBS unleashed fat, ugly Americans on the world! The best part is when they try to communicate in their McSpanish in places like Uganda or Bangladesh...no I take it back. .. The best is when they sign up for a reality show to “save their marriage”. Just take it from me, Shane and the Janice Dickenson Modeling Agency...it doesn’t work.)
4. The West Wing (haughty liberals that I love?! Only a mad genius could pull off such a feat. )
5. Top Chef (how could I resist a show when they speak of food in hushed and reverent tones?)
6. Flight of the Conchords (Whose the mutha-flippin?)
7. Around the Horn (I must disagree with Bethany and state that ATH is far superior to PTI. How I love Woody’s chalkboard and when Jackie wipes the floor with the menfolk. Plus, Shane thinks it’s way hot when I speak in Stats.)
8. General Conference (top that suckas!)

8 Things I did yesterday:

1. Ate lots of brownies
2. Packed Hank up for his trip to Utah
3. Cleansed my bad aura with a good long talk to Nicole and Marianne.
4. Cried when Shane and Hank left for Utah.
5. Tried new product on my curly hair and LOVED it. It is truly the dawning of a new day.
6. Went to rehearsal and sang my ever-loving guts out.
7. Watched Biggest Loser while eating a Whopper Jr. (I think that makes me the biggest loser. I seriously cannot stand the blue team.)
8. Fell asleep in the middle of the bed.

8 Things I look forward to:

1. Everyone getting over the whole “world peace” craze.
2. Shane and Hank getting back.
3. Opening night.
4. My next nap.
5. My next meal.
6. My next vacation.
7. My next book.
8. The next time my family is all together.

8 Favorite Restaurants:

1. Melting Pot (A religious experience)
2. Joe’s Bar-b-Que (A religious experience covered in sauce)
3. Thin Pan (Your noodles Thai me in knots)
4. Dukes (good call Bethany. Location is everything)
5. My Big Fat Greek Restaurant (I nicknamed my chub philo and feta)
6. McCormick & Schmidt's (best Cobbla in Boston, right mom?)
7. Landmark
8. Inca’s (The salsa is tomato heroin)

8 Items on my wish list:

1. World Peace ( I got sucked in)
2. The pill that makes diet and exercise obsolete.
3. A few more seats in the house and senate.
4. A clean bill of health from Dad’s doctor.
5. A brother and sister for Hank (but please don’t come together)
6. An awesome shop for Shane.
7. A passport full of stamps for me.
8. 6 great shows.

I now tag Marianne, Nicole, Stephanie, and Allison.

Another Opening at another show

2008-11-11T14:33:00.000-08:00

I've been getting a lot of questions about my play opening this weekend, so I thought I would give a little heads up, since it's not a well-known show. It's called "Children of Eden" and was written by Stephen Schwartz, (the guy who wrote Pipin and Wicked). It is based on the first 10 chapters of Genesis. The first act begins with the Creation, down through the expulsion from the garden, Cain and Abel, and ends with the death of Eve. The second act is the story of Noah.

All the actors play mirror parts in the first and second acts. In the first act I play Eve, and the second I play Mama Noah (no, she doesn't have a real name. I call her Fanny.)

This truly is an amazing show, with a great message and spectacular music. Though it's based on the Old Testament (with some definite artistic liberty) it's not an overly religious show. It's more about family relationships, repeating mistakes, free will, etc. It's not Mormon Doctrine, so please don't bring investigators!!!

If you need information on tickets, go to http://rloc.org/ You can also contact me.

Thank Goodness He's a Country Boy!

2008-10-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

Saturday, Hank was invited to Grandpa's farm to take a ride on one of the tractor's (or Combine's, to be precise.) Shane went with him and got to drive it himself, which was probably the highlight of his year. Hank did really well, and felt comfortable enough to start randomly pushing buttons on the 1/4 million dollar machine....luckily no damage was done!

Signs your little guy is sick...

2008-10-06T12:44:00.000-07:00

...He falls asleep mid sliding off the couch.

Uncle Simon- I hope you appreciate your Nephew representing the Fighting Gila Monsters!

Raindrops are falling on my head...

2008-09-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

To my beloved Paul...To the man who made riding a bike a beautiful thing, and taught us that sometimes nothing is a pretty cool hand.... Who drove race cars and sold salad dressing and stayed in love with the same woman for a bazillion years....who made me feel like a cat on a hot tin roof that would go out and join the Israeli Army just to see you walk up that hill.... Who made blue my very favorite color.... The Sting is that you're gone, hombre.

Rest in peace Paul... I think Shane finally can.

When the family gets together...

2008-09-08T13:12:00.000-07:00

This weekend we had so much fun with our family visiting from Utah. Here is photographic evidence of all the good times...

Nana sharing her shake with Hank (as though she had a choice...)

Hank absolutely adores his cousin Ethan. He was so happy to show him the ropes with the big boy toys!

Hank and his Papa...

On our way to Seattle on Friday, we stopped in Granger to meet with a farmer Shane works with, and he gave us a tour of his mint still (where the mint leaves are harvested and then processed for their oil). We city slickers were pretty impressed!

Waiting in line for the Bremerton ferry, Uncle Shane gives Ethan his first driving lesson. I guess Greg Beule was busy...

On the ferry with the gorgeous Seattle skyline behind us!

Game day! Our own boys in blue are ready to cheer on the BYU Cougars!

Hank & Tank (or sweet baby Ethan)

Hank's own "excessive celebration"

Papa and Ethan's post game wrap-up show

Book of Mormon Challenge

2008-08-29T14:32:00.000-07:00

This summer, our Relief Society decided to issue a 90-Day Book of Mormon Challenge. I just finished and thought I would write a few of my feelings (this is pretty personal stuff here).

I have read the Book of Mormon several times in my life and always believed in it. This time was different, however. For the first time in my life I can say that I am truly converted to it. I don't know what was so different this time, but I am so grateful that I stuck with it (even though I was about 40 pages behind most days!). Here are several things that stood out to me:

The importance of my baptism. I think we take this for granted when we are baptized at 8, and think of it only as a "first step". It is so much than that. It is the "salvation step" and the true message of the entire book.

The importance of conversion and missionary work. Every time someone was truly converted, they manifested it in missionary work. The LDS church is truly a church of conversion.

The gathering of Israel. Christ will redeem his people. The work will go forth and the good guys will win, end of story. The only question is will we remain faithful and obedient to God. Thank you 2Nephi. Though I still dread the Isaiah chapters, you were a revelation to me this time.

The words of the Savior. I should read 3Nephi every day of my life! Repentance, love, charity, goodness, virtue. How simple is his message. I also love the passage where the Savior prays for the people 3Nephi 17:20 "Blessed are ye because of your faith. And now behold, my joy is full."

My Temple covenants. Thanks to Alma 12 I will never look at a temple session the same way.

The words of Mormon and Moroni. Warrior poets.

Revenge is no good. A very timely message for me and my family. Just look at the Jaredites.

The Atonement. An always timely message. Moroni 7:28-"For He hath answered the ends of the law, and he claimeth all those who have faith in Him; and they who have faith in him will cleave unto every good thing; wherefore He advocateth the cause of the children of men; and He dwelleth eternally in the Heavens." Everything in the Book of Mormon points to Christ and his Atonement.

Importance of freedom in the promised land. If our cause is righteous, and if we are willing to fight for it and remember the captivity of our fathers, God will grant us to live in freedom.

This life is a probationary state and we will be judged by our works. We can get caught up in everything else but that is the simple fact and purpose of this life. Mormon 9:28 "Be wise in the days of your probabtion. Strip yourselves of all uncleanness."

I have truly feasted on the Book of Mormon this summer and am so glad for the Holy Ghost that witnesses the truth of it to me. When I read it, everything is better. I am the best version of myself. I am so grateful for Joseph Smith, and I truly believe he was a prophet of God. I am grateful for my Savior who redeems me daily. Ether 12:41 "And now, I would commend you to seek this Jesus of whom the prophets and apostles have written...that the grace of God may be and abide in you forever."

Any of you interested in taking this challenge can find it at : http://lds.about.com/library/bl/aids/aids2/bk_bom_reading.pdf

Revisiting the "Wonder Years"

2008-08-24T19:19:00.000-07:00

So there I was blogging and stumbled upon some friends blogs from my home town of Moreno Valley. If I didn't feel all grown up before, seeing the girls I remember with husbands and three kids, just about made me grab some tapioca and call it a night at 7:30.

Do you ever have a most random dream about someone from High School that you never even remembered existed before they showed up in your REM cycle?

It's a reminder to me that they are still there. The whole dang breakfast club that you loved, despised, envied, avoided, admired, pined after, are all still there in your psyche and on your blog.

I have always said that I am glad that I moved away from Mo Val, never having to have an awkward conversation with someone from HS whose name I can't remember, asking me if I still love the Beatles and keep in contact with Traci (yes and heck yes).

But I admit that I actually clapped my hands with joy when I found Janea, who led me to Melissa and Ben. Those fellow freaks and geeks who didn't know me from work or a play date (sorry pete), they knew me when I was the McLaughlin girl with big hair who made up funny songs on the guitar and ruled girls camp with my Three-pac skits (get it? Like Tupac? Whatever, it was hilarious at the time).

Strange when the girl you were collides with who you are now. It makes me realize that when I left the old RC, I packed way too light. I took Traci and left everyone else. Lori Pitts, Graham Marsh, Julie Kaio, Ramon Trujillo, Edward Aquilo, Enrique whats-his-face, Meghann Pricer, Leann Purity, Alexis Blackstone... the list goes on. Awesome people who made high school bearable and to whom I owe gratitude.

Who knows? Maybe I show up in their dreams.

2008-07-21T10:36:00.001-07:00

Eight Great Years

Today Megan and I celebrate our 8th wedding anniversary. I just wanted to take a moment and thank her for being a wonderful wife and mother. Without being sappy I wanted to thank her for all she has done for me and our family. Without her I would not be the person I am today. We have had a great eight years and I look forward to the many more years we have to spend together. I love you.

Boy meets concrete

2008-07-18T11:02:00.000-07:00

So we were at the water park yesterday, and I barely get Hank's shirt off before he starts running to the sprinklers. He failed to correctly negotiate the steps and takes a dive. Luckily, his face broke the fall. I pick him up as he is hysterically sobbing, and try to get him settled down. It takes a few minutes, and as he is getting calmed down, I say to him, "Hank, you just have to slow down a bit," to which he started wailing all over again. I guess like the Boss, my boy was born to run.

Why I love my brother Simon:

2008-07-07T15:31:00.000-07:00

The way you sing “The Lord is my Light” like Mariah Carey.

For being one of the few people brave enough to never compromise your personality and nice enough to never ask people to compromise theirs.

For your love of all foods greasy, sticky, multi-colored, and age inappropriate. Is there anyone else past nine who could pound a box of Go-gurts?

For the way you still look forward to finding a drum set under the Christmas tree.

For being funny and kind simultaneously. Not many are talented enough to pull that off, including me.

For your long Fast Sunday dinner prayers…I admit they drove me crazy at the time, but I love knowing that my baby brother prays for me.

For not letting a falling piano keep you down. You took it like a man!

You teach us by the things you do, not by the words you speak.

For your cockney accent, missions from the Queen, and “A little bit of luck”.

For giving your tips to Mom and Dad. You truly amaze me.

For making Shane's introduction into our family unforgettable. (And thank you Shane, for marrying me anyway)

For being the first one to forgive, always.

For your millions of “Simonisms” including, “I hate the world”, “They can’t keep me from selling!”, “Sorry dad, I wasn’t really paying attention”, and of course, “Don’t mind if I do!”

For taking all the trials except chubbiness.

For apple juice and raw hot dogs. (Sorry Derek, for falling on that grenade)

For bearing your testimony sincerely and frequently.

For your absolute persistence and utter patience. If only you had been born first and wore Mom and Dad out before the rest of us showed up!

For never allowing yourself to become victimized, no matter what. You have never begrudged your trials, you simply get through them quietly and honorably.

For ding-dong non-ditching

For your huge heart inside that skinny body.

Your impersonation of raptors, Grandma, and the call of a cougar….freaking hilarious.

For pursuing your music and the joy you take in it.

For your love of the Savior and your fellow men.

Slimy-Simy, you are such a blessing in my life and I absolutely adore you. You are an incredible example to me and I am more proud and humbled by you than I can say. You are someone I look up to and strive to be more like. You are a hero to me and I love you more than I can blog.

New Pics of Hank

2008-07-03T16:13:00.001-07:00

I have been less than diligent in blogging lately, so will take a few moments to post some pictures of Hank (and thus appease his Nana).

Here are Hank and Nana at Riverfront Park in Spokane. Notice Nana's vice-grip on Hank to keep him from going "Tom Hanks" and becoming a Mer-man. Some nice lady gave Hank a piece of bread to feed the ducks, to which he promptly ate it. Now that's dominion over the beasts, baby!

This park also has an amazing giant red-flyer wagon slide that Hank had a blast on...he just couldn't understand what the other kids were doing on it....

Going...

Gone!

Hank's new obsession...shoes! He loves plodding along in other people's shoes. It's a way to constantly remind him that he is the first child and therefore holds all our overblown expectations in those big shoes he has to fill....

Here is Hank right before church on the morning of his first trip to nursery! If you weren't in the building or in a 5-mile radius and didn't get a chance hear his hysterically sobbing as they brought him back to me in Sunday School, then you missed out. My apologies to Bro. Linde, as I am sure it was a great lesson up to that point.

So Wednesday afternoon I was in the family room and things had gotten very quiet in Hank's room. I went to investigate and he wasn't there. I did a search of the house and found this: He had gotten into the garage, found his stroller, climbed in and fell asleep (or else passed out from heat exhaustion.) This is especially endearing to me, because my scrapbooks are filled with pictures of me at his age, dead asleep in the most random of places...The dream lives on!

BTW, we are not usually so ghetto...he was in his swimming trunks and no shirt because we were going to the water-park later that afternoon. Okay, we are that ghetto.

Hanks on a Plane!

2008-06-09T14:44:00.000-07:00

So we set off once again to Provo to attend the blessing of the sweetest baby ever, my nephew baby Ethan. Here are Hank and Ethan getting acquainted with each other. Look how he is screaming with joy in my arms!

On Saturday, my folks took us to Sundance and Park City to enjoy the incredible weather we were having. Here is Hank taking in the view at Bridal Veil Falls. I loved his face even more than the scenery! And for all of you who think I am horrible for keeping him strapped to his chair while Shane and I got out and enjoyed the view, don't worry. We threw some french frys at him and he was good for 1/2 hour.
We seriously tempted fate and went on the ski lift ride at Sundance with Hank. See how Shane is literally squeezing the life out of Hank to make sure he didn't plummet to his death. The last thing Mr. Redford needs is an ugly lawsuit.

Hail Zion!!

LL Cool Hank

All in all it was a good trip. Derek did an amazing job blessing Ethan, and it was just nice to get away for a while.

A brief note to my family: Sitting in church yesterday and thinking about all the things we have been through these past 6 years, I was filled to the brim with gratitude for my family. I can't think of a better group of people to go through the trials and joys of this life than with you. You make me proud to be a sister, daughter, wife, and mom. I love you all so much, and know there is no force strong enough to take down Team McLaughlin/Johnson/Jones. And, we are seriously going to rock at the Family Reunion Bowling Night.

That's a throwdown Beagley's, Rowley's and Armstongs!!!

Home Improvements

2008-06-06T14:55:00.001-07:00

To the delight and relief of our neighbors, we finally got down and dirty with some home improvement projects (thank you economic stimulus package!). We decided to enclose the fence, (thus completing Hank's prison yard...he might as well get used to it now). We had several contractors bid the job, but Shane decided in the end that he and his dad could do the job and save some cash. They of course did an amazing job, and the best part is that Bruce worked for cheeseburgers!

With the money we saved we decided to get some curbing in our front yard. That's right, just like the Jefferson's, the Johnson's are 'a movin on up! Artistic Curbing came out and did a fantastic job, (if anyone wants the number let me know).

Finally, the part I have been waiting for, the plants. Luckily I married a farmer, because I was literally asking questions like, "So I just water around the dirt at the bottom, right?" and "So you're 100% sure that if we give these plants water, fertilizer and sunlight they will just grow on their own?" I'm a regular green thumb.

Before:

After: Shane built me these beautiful planter boxes which we stained to match the fence. I cant wait to see everything grow!

Here is my favorite thing (to the very far right), a Blushing Bride Hydrangea bush. I named it Alfie after my great-grandpa who I have heard was an avid gardener. Grow Alfie, grow like the wind!!

Team Jolene!

2008-05-12T10:05:00.001-07:00

For those of you who never knew my cousin Jolene, I just want to say I'm sorry you never got to meet her. She was one of the funniest, bravest, loudest, hungriest, coolest girls I ever met. Jo made every room she walked into come alive. I am humbled to have known her, and blessed to have her in my eternal family. I think about her every day, and try to measure my faith, my joy and my prayers against hers. She was on the top of my very short list of hero's and I miss her.

This weekend, Jolene's amazing sister Karine sponsored 'Team Jolene' in the annual Cystic Fibrosis walk in Yakima. Shane, Hank and I drove up to participate and do a tiny part in helping find a cure to the disease Jolene fought her entire life.

Here are some pictures:

Hank showing his Jolene pride!

Two of the cutest members of Team Jolene, Hank and his cuz-cuz Maddie

Team Jolene

Along the route they had posters from different sponsors, and we were so excited to find one by my sweet mom!

To read about Jolene from those who loved her best, here is her myspace page....

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=40225308

Also, to learn about Great Strides, and donate to this amazing and worthy cause click here:

http://www.cff.org/GREAT_STRIDES/

We love you Jo!

Battle of the Bulge: D-day +15

2008-05-07T11:48:00.000-07:00

That's right folks, day 16 of this horrifically stupid and torturous bet. Things are a bit...tense at the Johnson home. Shane was snipping to me last night because we couldn't have any of our niece's birthday cake...I was snipping at him that he shouldn't be complaining because he's already lost 11lbs (I hate men and their metabolisms). We are in serious need of a sugar fix, or things might get pretty nasty.

Another thing to add to our happy home, is the fact that we have been woken-up by Hank 3 of the past 4 nights. (and anyone who knows me, knows how I love my sleep) Last night we tried to let him cry it out, but the boy is so stinking stubborn! So I walk into his room, stand in front of his crib with my arms folded, and start lecturing him (somewhat loudly) on his selfish behavior, and how his father needs his sleep so he can go to work, and how disappointed I was in his lack of consideration for the rest of us, yadda yadda yadda. By this time in my speech, Hank is literally trying to throw himself over railing of the crib to his certain death, and is hysterically bawling his eyes out.

Right when I was about to completely lose my mind and torch the whole house around us, Shane walks into the room, takes Hank in his arms and very sweetly and patiently tells me to go back to bed, and that he will take care of everything. Of course, I start crying because I am a terrible mother and have now given Hank one more reason to hate me when he turns 13.

So I go to bed pretty upset, when Shane walks in the room and gets into bed with our boy. Hank hears me sniffling and says, "mama?" and climbs over to me and into my arms.

Children make you bi-polar. One minute you are cursing the heavens for their rotten existence, the next you are crying about how much you love them and don't deserve them.

I need some chocolate. This is quickly becoming a safety issue.

Hankisms

2008-04-30T14:12:00.000-07:00

Just some of the latest Hank stories:

So since Hank was born we would say family prayer by his crib with one of us holding him. We decided he was old enough to learn how to fold his arms, etc. So we kneel down to pray in our family room and Shane is holding Hank, trying to get him to fold his arms. He was not having it. He does not like to be controlled by anything but the beat. So Shane lets him go and continues the prayer. I open my eyes to make sure he's not lighting matches or anything, and he is standing there, his little hands clasped together with his head bowed. It was one of the greatest parenting moments ever! Shane finishes and we tell Hank what a great job he did, to which he gave us both high-fives. He also loves shouting "amen" at the end of the prayer. What can I say? He is just so pious.

This morning we were watching American Idol. Hank rarely sits in my lap to watch TV, but he was pretty mesmorized by the singing. During David Cooks song, Hank raises his arms and starts swaying them with the rest of audience. I guess just like his mom, he's a sucker for Neil Diamond.

Mac and Cheese anyone?

Meg's Movie Review..."Leatherheads"

2008-04-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

I know I need a better name than that. But for the time being, this will have to suffice.

So Shane and I went to see Leatherheads this weekend. We were pretty excited about this flick, and figured we couldn't go wrong...sports, romance, comedy, Jim Halpert. Unfortunately, due to some unfocused directing and miscasting, Leatherheads didn't quite get the job done.

The biggest problem with the movie is that it doesn't know what type of comedy it wants to be. It works as a straight comedy, it works as a slap-shtick comedy, it just doesn't work as both juxtaposed together. It starts out funny enough, but then mid-way Clooney decides to ham it up with some serious shtick, then changes his mind back towards the end. I say, stay with the shtick. It worked in "Oh Brother, Where Are Thou?" and to a lesser degree in "Intolerable Cruelty", it keeps things light and never takes itself too seriously.

What is this movie trying to say? Is it a commentary on today's world of sports with too much money, evil agents, false hero's? If so, don't cast John Krasinski as your fallen hero. Realize that he is pretty much the guy everyone wants on their email distribution list, and we are going to root for him, no matter what. He's Jim Halpert, for crying out loud, champion of the "normals". He's Tom Joad with comedic timing and no criminal record. Good luck hating that guy.

I do give props for a great soundtrack (thanks Randy Newman) and art direction. It looked like a moving Norman Rockwell painting, which I loved.

There are some very funny parts in this film, enough that I do think it's worth renting, as long as your expectations are in check.

Battle of the Bulge

2008-04-25T11:17:00.000-07:00

Recently, Shane and I decided that it was time to stop messing around, and to start exercising and eating right. This decision is in large part due to the fact that we are going to Hawaii in January with Shane's work, and we don't want to scare people away with our massive amounts of pale chubs. (It's seriously wrong how white I am...I am one fanny pack and two hairy legs away from being a Euro...)

So having learned in the last few years that my husband is a gambling freak, and will do almost anything if there is a wager involved (thanks Pete), I decided to challenge him to a sugar-off. This means that whoever can abstain from sugar treats the longest, wins $25 from a gift card we got at Christmas.

Then we decided to get extreme. Another $25 goes to whoever works out five days a week the longest. That's right folks, a full $50 of dream-making cash just waiting for me.

I do have to say, I think it's really cute how Shane thinks he is going to win. Obviously he is totally underestimating my commitment to winning. He doesn't even know what he is up against. I don't just have the eye of the tiger, I have the heart of the bear that ate that tiger while he was napping. And I have the fire power of the hunter-man who shot the bear and now wears the bear-skin around his neck. And I have the crazed mania of the PETA people, who attacked the Hunter-man's house and dumped red paint all over that bear-skin cape. And I have the clinging power of that red paint when some poor dry-cleaning man tries to clean it off. And I have...well you get the point.

It's all over but the spending, Chano. You may as well give in and have that handful of M&M's you've been crying over all week.

The Mayor of Bracketville

2008-04-08T15:30:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Shane, who after suffering 5 years of humiliating defeat has finally won the family pool. Shane, who always chooses with his heart rather than his head, and who has sworn each year that he would never fill out another bracket again, watched his beloved Kansas pull-out a huge victory last night. Now we can put his name next to other prestigious past winners, Mom (twice), Simon, Brian, and that British guy my sister married. All I can say is, "Free at last, free at last. Thank Jayhawks almighty, I am free at last!"

Provo, again

2008-04-08T15:08:00.000-07:00

So my beautiful nephew was born last week, and since I couldn't stand to wait to meet him until June, my mother-in-law offered to drive me and Hank to Utah to meet baby Ethan. It was very last minute, and a very long drive, but it was all worth it.

We left Thursday morning, and Hank was amazingly well behaved for his first long car ride. He was very excited to see his Nana and Papa. We met Ethan Friday morning, and he is wonderful. He opened his eyes and peed on me, so I know we are destined to be good friends. Hank was very cautious around him, probably because I was always close by saying, "be soft!" in a somewhat high-pitched and hysterical tone. He did warm up to the baby, and patted his head and gave him some kisses.

I also got to see my wonderful roommates from Ricks again. Traci and I smoked Jessie and Nickie at Canasta and we retold our favorite stories, and caught up on new ones. They seriously are the best friends a gal could ask for.

We watched conference, ate, laughed, shopped, and had a great time. We got home Monday, and both Hank and I were thrilled to see Shane. Thanks Vickie for the ride. And thanks mom and dad for everything. We miss you already!

Hank trying to give the terrified Ethan a kiss. Apparently Gibson warned Ethan about how to deal with Hurricane Hank!

Proud Parents

An ode to my dentist

2008-04-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

What? Can this be true? Me, who swore eternal hatred with the passion of a thousand macro-quasars to all dentists be writing a blog about my dentist? It's true, folks. I might be ready to bury the hatchet.

It all started about two years ago, when I was pregnant with Hank. I knew we were moving and would be losing dental insurance, so we decided to go get a check up. In his infinite wisdom Dr. Saddam Hitler, DDS told me that I would need "special drugs" while undergoing 2 root canals. It was a nightmare. The experience was about 12x worse than childbirth. I swore I would never see another dentist ever again.

So my tooth starting hurting a few weeks ago. Since my favorite coping method is denial, I simply took my aspirin, avoided cold drinks, and sucker-punched Shane whenever he brought it up.

But it got worse, so I scheduled my appointment with a friend of mine (I didn't know he was a dentist at the time...and to think that we Bunco'd together!) and went in Wednesday morning. Of course, it indeed was bad enough to need another root canal. (BTW, I do brush my teeth regularly. I think its my love affair with diet Pepsi that did me in).

So I seriously starting tearing up right there in the office, and I begged Jared just to rip my tooth out. He assured me that I really didn't want that but to help me out he would give me drugs that would make me quite relaxed and loopy. Since we were both leaving that weekend, I had to come back in that day for the procedure.

I don't remember much of what happened next, but I am sure that I was quite composed and sensible as I always am. As loopy as I was, I still realized that Marianne could probably take me down Pocatello style, or I would have goosed Jared right there and then. He was kind and professional, and put my mind at ease when I was facing a terrifying if a bit irrational fear.

Thanks so much Jared. You have redeemed your profession in my eyes. (PS...I really think Bunco would be more fun if you brought some of those drugs next time. )

Welcome to the World!!

2008-03-28T16:34:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the world and to our family, beautiful Ethan James McLaughlin! We love you so much and are so happy you are here.

8.5 lbs, 19 inches of newphew lovin'. I can't wait to get this little guy in my arms!!!

So you think you can dance?

2008-03-14T16:14:00.000-07:00

This was a few nights ago. I hope you enjoy Hank's unique blending of The Robot, Crumping and of course, the Arsenio Hall cheer that Shane has recently taught him. Only 12 1/2 years until his first Stake Dance!

Seattle

2008-03-06T11:13:00.000-08:00

Home again!

We left Sunday and traveled to Kirkland to stay with my wonderful Aunt Lynn and Uncle Steve. They loved and spoiled our boy rotten and we had a great time with them, as always! I also took the opportunity to kick every one's butt at SceneIt, once again proving that my mind is filled with way too much useless movie information.

Monday we woke up and went to Voula's Offshore Cafe, a diner recently featured on one of Shane's favorite shows on Food Network,"Diners Drive-ins and Dives". They specialize in Greek food, and I had the yummy Greek Fetish Omelet. Hank fell in love with our waitress and had everybody laughing.

On to the Woodland Zoo where we were one of the very few visitors that day. We saw elephants, gorillas, giraffes, bats, snakes, birds, zebras, bugs, chickens, tigers, and a jaguar. We had a great time, and it didn't rain a drop on us!

Later that night Lynn beat me at SceneIt. That's all I have to say about that.

Tuesday we reported to Children's Hospital at 8:15. By about 9:30 Hank was dressed and ready to go. The doctors and nurses were wonderful and we had absolute confidence in them, but it was still so hard when they took him from Shane's arms to where they would give him the gas, then give him an IV, breathing tube, and basically a kiddie epidural.

Eeyore stayed with Hank during the Surgery. They even had matching tags!

Two hours later we had our boy back, though groggy and a bit annoyed that he couldn't feel his legs. We made our way home that same day and Hank was a champ. He slept most of the way, but was quite cheerful when he woke up. (Thank goodness for drugs!)

Recovery has been going well, and the whole experience has not slowed him down a bit. We so appreciate all your prayers and well-wishes. We are so happy to have this behind us, and as Jen said, have everything "straightened out".

Prayers for Henry

2008-02-29T10:13:00.000-08:00

We are heading up to Seattle on Sunday for Hank's surgery. We go in Tuesday morning, and should be able to head home the same day. While this is a very routine, out-patient procedure, we would sure appreciate your prayers for our boy (and for the Doctor/Mohel).

Tagged!

2008-02-27T12:34:00.000-08:00

I was actually tagged by both Kim and Jen, but since Jen threatened that bad things would happen if I didn't pass this on, I figure I better do what she says.

What I was doing 10 years ago:

Having the time of my life at Ricks College. I was living at Heritage Manor #118 with some of the best gals in the world; Traci, Jess, Adeline, Lisa and Alyssa. I had amazing FHE brothers and was probably sick to death of snow and slick sidewalks. I was also pulling a C in Book of Mormon and failing Biology. But I was having a blast. Ah, College days.

5 things on today's to do list:

Exercise with Shane

Rehearsal at 8:30

Laundry

Take Hank to get his pictures taken

Write my article for my company newsletter

Snacks I enjoy:

Better rephrase...snacks I don't enjoy...hmmm...I'll get back to you.

What would I do if I became a millionaire:

Buy foodstorage. PSYCH!

I would totally decorate my house and add a porch, deck, fireplace and bigger bathroom. I would travel constantly. New York, Rome, Switzerland and Ireland are big on my list. I would also build Shane a shop of his dreams. I would hire someone to accompany me on the piano whenever I wanted...and then hire an audience to applaud me...and then I would have to hire new friends because I would become insufferable.

3 bad habits:

biting my fingernails

messy bathroom

leaving drawers open after using them (I didn't know this was a bad habit, but Shane says it is)

5 places I have lived:

Buztbach Germany

Lawton, Oklahoma

Columbia, Maryland

Moreno Valley, California

Mesa, Arizona

5 jobs I've had

Sandwich artist at Subway

Deli Gal at Brolims Grocery in Rexburg

Admissions Counselor (aka minon of satan) at University of Phoenix

Executive Assistant to the CEO of Telgian, Inc

Stay at home mom

5 things people don't know about me:

I love old school rap music. I love dancing like a white child to it.

My maiden name is McLaughlin. I had a really hard time giving it up when I got married because I am so proud of my heritage. But I love being a Johnson too.

I love war movies. Shane loves this about me.

Anything having to do with ghosts scare the heck out of me. I am kind of a wimp. If a ghost ever comes to my bedroom, I will throw Shane under the bus, big time.

I am a huge Beatles fan. I love them, own every album, know all the words to "I am the Walrus", etc. ...its a bit over the top.

I tag Bethany, Melanie, Karine and Steph.

Latest Pics...

2008-02-25T16:14:00.000-08:00

Goofy Grins

Hank tries on Dad's sock just before spontaneously flash dancing to "What a Feeling"

Hank's new "man cave"

In honor of the Oscar's, Hank gives us his best Robert De Niro. I give you...my own little Raging Bull

"Cover your heart, Indy!"

2008-02-21T16:03:00.000-08:00

So I am 1 year and a month from my 30th birthday. I know I should accept this with grace, but I kind of hate it. One reason is that a few years ago one of my aunts (not you Lynn, you could never be so cruel [to someones face]) told me that I would be completely grey by my 30th birthday. Hopefully (and likely) she was drunk at the time.

So you can imagine how happy I was to find the trailer for the new Indiana Jones movie today. Instantly I was 8 years old again, wearing my Pro Wings and too tight tee shirt I borrowed from Bethany, choking on the Aqua Net fumes radiating from my eclipse inducing fro.

The only way I could be happier is if this was a sequel to The Goonies, or yet another sequel to Iron Eagle (where Chappy's evil twin Chippy joins forces with a rogue Albanian terrorist unit, forcing Chappy out of retirement to bring his bald brother to justice, with the help of some 4th graders).

Anyway, enjoy this trip back into childhood, and mark your calendars for May 22. I think we need a seriously over-the-top Indiana Jones party throw down. If that includes out of towners buying their plane tickets to the Pasco airport, so be it. Whose with me?

"He knows a name, a glorious name..."

2008-02-20T13:16:00.000-08:00

2 months ago as Shane was leaving for work, Hank followed him to the door and said, "Daddy", his first word. It was so cute and I didnt mind at all that he wasnt in a hurry to same my name. But like I said, it's been 2 months. I guess 22 hours of labor doesnt earn you the respect it used to.
So Saturday the three of us were vegging on the couch and Hank was babbling away. Shane points to himself and says "Daddy" then points to me and says "Momma". Hank considers this for a moment, then looks me dead in the eyes and shyly says, "ma-ma". It wasnt babbling, it was a total acknowledgment. My heart just about jumped out of my chest.

A small thing, but a great moment.

10 Days in Provo

2008-02-15T11:16:00.000-08:00

We have just returned from a wonderful trip to Provo where we were visiting my family. Of course, the trip was bittersweet because the reason for vacation was to send my baby brother Simon off to Louisville, Kentucky to serve his 2 year mission. Here are some of the highlights:

Hank is ready for his first trip to the Marriott Center to watch BYU play TCM. His Nana and Papa made sure he was outfitted appropriately. Here he is with Uncle Derek:

He couldn't be bothered with pictures, that's how into this game he was. Here he is with Nana and Papa:

Thanks Aunt Bethany for the awesome Suns jersey! Hank was so excited that he couldnt stop hugging and kissing Bethany to show his appreciation. Here are the 2 biggest Suns fans, Hanks and Uncle Simon showing off:

Here are Bethany and Nathan after we ate our body weight in red meat at the resturant Tucano's. For anyone unfamiliar with this Cardiologist's nightmare, it is a Brazilian grill where they bring huge slabs of every kind of meat to your table and slice off pieces about every 30 seconds until you almost burst. My favs were the grilled pineapple, parmesan encrsted grilled veggies and the teriyaki steak. YUM!

My siblings rocking out to Rock Star:

Even Hank wanted to get in on the action. Here he is on drums (and yes, he is using 2 wooden spoons to play. He is so ahead of his time):

...And as the back-up dancer:

Mom and Dad have a great sledding hill right by their house. Here are some shots:

Shane:

Mom:

And me!

I also got to hang out with my college roommates, Traci, Jessie and Nickie, I bowled a life-time high of 158 (I never even broke 100 before!), sang in church with my family, ate at Costa Vita, and of course, the highlight was going to the Temple for the first time with all my siblings.

We love you so much Simon! We are so proud of you and will pray for you every night. "May the road rise to meet you...and until we meet again, may the Lord hold you in the palm of his hand."

Simon, me, Bethany and Derek outside the Provo Temple.

My Significant Other Tag

2008-01-30T11:24:00.001-08:00

Yes! I love this tag because I get to talk about my hunk of man-meat, the Shane-meister.

His name: Shane K. Johnson

How long have you been married?: 7 years 5 months

How long did you date?: We met in August of '99, and were married July of '00. That's seven years in Mormon dating time.

How old is he: 30

Who eats more? Him. I am on a strict diet of celery and black market phen-fen. (I know a guy...)

Who said "I love you" first? Him. I was merely the helpless co-ed being preyed upon.

Who is taller? Him. He is 6' and I am a dainty 5'7 and 1/2"

Who sings better? I've got him beat with Broadway, but he kills it with Johnny Cash and Willy Nelson. I love when he sings "To all the girls I loved before" to Hank. It makes me want to hurl.

Who is smarter? Shane is way more street smart. But I am good with kung fu stuff.

Whose temper is worse? His. But most of the time I had it coming to me.

Who does the laundry? He does. When I do it, it becomes a week-long project.

Who does the dishes? Our butler Benito.

Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? We sleep in a tangled mass of flesh I like to compare to a erotic Rodin sculpture...Just kidding. I do.

Who pays the bills? He does. I like to live in a little slice of heaven called Denial-ville.

Who mows the lawn? He does. He likes to mow our lawn into intricate rows resembling a baseball field. He is also slightly OCD.

Who cooks dinner? I do. I mash potatoes like no ones business.

Who drives when you are together? He does, and it's kind of a source of contention in our marriage. I mean, it's as though we were never liberated at all!

Who is more stubborn? Me. Totally. No competition. I'm Irish, and I'm Anne's daughter. But I know I'm okay cause God dont make no junk.

Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Shane, but I have gotten a lot better at this over the years. Both times I have been wrong were great teaching lessons.

Whose parents do you see the most? Shane's, since they live 12 houses away from us. But they are such a blessing!!

Who proposed? He did. We went to the San Diego temple where he had to scare off some Sister Missionaries that were tailing us. He proposed very sweetly on one knee then proceeded to put the ring on the wrong finger. Classic Shane!

Who has more friends? Me. I am way more outgoing. But when Shane has a friend they are brothers for life. In all honesty, his friendship is an honor.

Who has more siblings? The same. We are both middle children and sport matching chips on our shoulders.

Who wears the pants in the family? I like to talk big, but it's totally Shane. He is the head of our family. I am just the trophy wife. He makes me laugh like no other, and he is the best guy a girl could ask for.

I now tag Bethany, Nicole, Marianne, Karine, and Steph!

In Jane Austen's World

2008-01-22T14:37:00.000-08:00

Hopefully you have been enjoying Masterpiece Theatre's retelling of all six of Ms. Austen's novels. And hopefully you are not like my sweet husband who says that her novels, "pretty much write themselves." (Though no one could accuse Louis L'Amour of being formulaic...)

I have been thinking about this celebrated lady, and wondering why we love her so dang much. I think it's a lot of things. One is that we so badly want to be one of her heroines, because let's face it, she knew what good women aspire to be. Her heroines are simple, smart, good, talented, popular (with out being a "mean girl"), witty, and they always understand that there are far more important things than money and good looks.

Another reason we love her is that she created such great men. Darcy, Brandon, Wentworth, Knightly...the list goes on. All rich, but just. Handsome, but never vain (though often misunderstood). They would rather have a smart wife than a pretty one. They pine, they protect, and they own property in something known as "the Lake District".

Her villains are all recognizable. They aren't murderers or thieves, but rather they are petty, jealous, mean and greedy. The worst sin one could commit is to treat people badly, and not live up to ones word.

Finally, her world is the most just and fair place in all the literary world. By the end of the novel, each character is rewarded or punished in exact accordance to their behavior. If you are good and learn all your life lessons, you are rewarded with a handsome husband and a grand estate. If you are bad and compromise your values, you are cast out of good society and exiled to live far away from the good people.

Oh to live in her world! Oh to "Summer in Bath" or "Dance the next set". Oh to only wear empire waistline dresses!

She totally rocks.

"Godspeed, little man....Sweet dreams, little man"

2008-01-20T22:49:00.000-08:00

Shane is out of town for the next week so it was up to me to get all the Sunday night tasks completed. Feed Hank, change diapers, say prayers and take him to bed. About 25 minutes after alls quiet lights out, I hear my baby screaming. I run to his room and pull him out of his crib and held him as he cried inconsolably for about 15 minutes. It was obvious to me that he had a nightmare (so sad that 1 year-olds have bad dreams!). I held him until he settled down, then we sat on the couch together where he just held to me as tight as he could. It actually turned out to be such a sweet moment because my boy is usually far too busy for cuddles. Often I get a quick hug before he is off on his adventures, so I treasure those times where he slows down and we just sit together. I sang to him, and we talked about how dreams are such happy things to have, and all the different places we can go when we dream. It was all very Walton's but I loved it.

The experience reminded me once again, what an awesome responsibility it is to be a parent. A few days ago I posted about my parents making everything alright, and now it is my job to do the same for my boy. As he held onto me tonight for dear life, he fully expected that I would make everything alright, and that the world would be a little less scary if we were holding on together. What incredible trust they have in us! What an honor!

It's a small thing, and something I probably would have forgotten if I hadn't written it down. But a good reminder when he is a teenager and Karma gets me back for being such a tool to my parents. I'll remember the night when my boy needed me and I could actually fix it. "This isn't our problem...this is our gift."

Latest Pics...

2008-01-16T14:25:00.000-08:00

This is why I doubt that my son will live to his second birthday...And do we as responsible parents pull him down and give him a stern talking-to? Oh no, it was more like this, "That is not a toy, son. Now keep playing on the dangerous, slick, gas spewing oven until we get this shot."

Living in this house is truly a hair-raising experience...

Moms & Dads

2008-01-16T14:17:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness for Moms and Dads. I am 28 years old, a mom myself, and yet when my Mom and Dad tell me that everything is going to be alright, I still absolutley believe them. What a great blessing that is. Thank guys.

Repeat the Sounding Joy!

2008-01-07T18:00:00.000-08:00

After a wonderful and insanely busy holiday season, I finally have my computer back (a long story) and am ready to get back to blogging! My whole family came to celebrate our first Christmas in our home and it was a fun, loud, and memorable experience.

Christmas Eve, Bethany Hank and I singing a trio!

Our first Christmas as parents was a fun and eye-opening experience. I told my mom that I finally understood why they always looked so exhausted by 4:00 Christmas day! Shane and I woke up early, bundled up the Hankster and went to his parents house to open presents with his family. It's amazing how many presents are there for 2 grandparents, 4 siblings, 3 spouses, and 4 grandchildren! Poor Hank was a little overwhelmed with the whole experience. By the time we got him home, he was so exhausted that we put him down for a nap and opened more presents with my family. When he awoke from dreams of sugar plums dancing he was in a much better mood and able to enjoy opening his presents.

Hank checking out the awesome toybox his dad and Grandpa Jo made him. I absolutely love him in his Hugh Hefner PJ's!

My parents, probably also overwhelmed with their first grandchild's Christmas, got Hank a Little Tykes playhouse big enough for us all to live in (when the bank comes to take our house back, as Shane loves to say!)

Santa's Elves. My dad says the three most dreaded words in the English language are: Some Assembly Required

The finished product, to be featured in next week's MTV Cribs...

And as if Christmas and the constant attention of adoring grandparents, aunts, and uncles wasn't enough to spoil my little angel rotten, his first birthday was on the 29th! I spent the day in a haze, wondering where the first year of my baby's life had gone, and fearing that the next 17 years would go just as fast. We had a great party with both families, still more presents, and my son diving face first into his cake!

You can see his disappointment that it wasn't chocolate cake. Somehow he managed to shovel it down, stopping only when he burst into tears upon hitting the cardboard base (which he then tried to eat as well)

So I end this post with a short note to my little man. I heard someway say this past year that you don't love your kids, you fall in love with them. You are the second great love of my life. You are the best, hardest, most worthwhile, pain the butt thing I have ever done. I am so proud of you, and proud to be your mom. My "Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful boy."

Paging Doctor Clooney!

2007-12-06T14:46:00.000-08:00

So we made it eleven months and 5 days before our first ER trip with Henry, and I have to say my experience was a bit of a disappointment...

Tuesday morning, I walk to the living room to see my son trying to chew up one of those glass tree ornaments. I get the blood in his mouth and shirt cleaned up, and am trying to see into his mouth to see if there are any cuts. The bleeding stops, so I put him in his high chair to see if he will eat. He starts crying and bleeding again, and I start to panic a bit. I'm no doctor, but I know that ingesting glass probably isn't the breakfast of champions. I run to get my clothes on and dash out the door to the Kania Clinic.

The twelve year old minimum wage kid working at the counter (apparently NASA wasn't hiring this week) informs me that they cant see Hank and I have to go to the ER.

It took us about an hour just to get triaged, and the nurse tells me that there aren't cuts in his mouth, and since he isn't choking or coughing that he likely didn't swallow anything, but that the doc would be there shortly to check Hank out.

If I thought church was fun with this guy, try chasing him around the ER! He did make some friends, first with this old gal in a wheel chair, who was kind enough to unlock her wheels so Hank could push her around a bit. Then with another lady whose gall bladder was about to burst who offered to share her ice tea with him, then the poor green teenager who was trying to sleep that Hank wanted to play peek-a-boo with. Hank just ran from patient to patient, absolutely convinced that the only prescription they needed was some Vitamin-H.

The disappointing part was that here I am, sitting by myself, no ring on my finger (it got forgotten in the rush out the door) and not one hot doctor tried to hit on me! I've seen the show, and I know that every distraught mom gets picked up by either Euro doc, commitment-phobia doc, cute-rookie doc, etc. But not me. I was waiting for a helicopter to crash through the windows, or some rare and life-threatening disease to shut the place down. Heck, I was about to OD on Dayquil just to liven the place up.

But in the end, after a few hours when it was obvious that Hank was not slowly choking to death or bleeding internally, we decided to go home and have a nap.

NBC is full of crap.

Tagged!

2007-12-03T16:01:00.000-08:00

Thank you Seth, for assuming that there are seven interesting facts about me. Here we go-

1. I love to bake. I love it so much I would do it every day. Sometimes when I bake, I pretend I am hosting my own baking show on the food network. It would be in the same vein as Giada (or as Shane calls it, Cooking with Cleavage), not Rachel Ray (she bugs me, I don't know why.)

2. If I could have any super-power it would be time travel. There are so many places and events that I wish I could witness. I wouldn't want the power to be able to change events, just to watch them unfold.

3. I have moved a ba-jillion times in my life. My goal is to live in one house for 10 years.

4. I have a secret wish to someday be asked to appear on "Inside the Actor's Studio". I have no clue how to get asked, or what movies I would ever be asked to star in, but I think I would be an engaging and delightful interview. I would be "scrumtrulescent". Here are the answers to my questions, if anyone is interested:

-favorite sound: Hank's giggling, clock-tower chimes, and an orchestra warming up
-least fav sound: loud gum chewing
-favorite word: home
-least fav word: entitlement and the f word. (but the phrase "effing" always makes me guiltily chuckle)
-what turns me on: great power under control, and big broad shoulders
-what turns me off: mean people

5. My hair is very curly, and I seriously had the worst hair ever in middle school. Ever, ever. Fro-city. I was known as "the girl with the hair"...and not in a good way.

6. I think my humor is the best thing about me, and the worst thing about me.

7. I never thought Seinfield was funny. It is seriously torturous for me to watch that show. But I would leave my husband for Conan O'Brian or Steven Colbert.

I now tag Bethany, Karine, Stephanie and Nicole!

Happy Birthday Mom!

2007-11-28T20:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Hanks-giving!

2007-11-27T12:09:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the latest pics of Hank.

This was taken just before church. We tried out his new winter coat for the first time, and being overcome by the magnitude of it, Hank fell to the floor, unable to move. "Randy lay there like a slug-it was his only defense." I think this photo demonstrates that there is definatly some of the McLaughlin dramatic side to him!

This was after a particularly trying nap. I should have been hugging him, but the hair was just too funny not to document.

Hank in his latest church clothes, a gift from his Uncle Derek and Aunt Emily.

And this one is for the ladies!

Hank sporting his new festive holiday pj's.

Hank and his Nana

Hank had both sets of Grandparents there for his first Thanksgiving. Lucky boy!

Hank helping dad. In case you're wondering, in this house, we never fix the plumbing while wearing pants.

A happy football day for us...Both BYU and WSU Cougars won!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-23T21:13:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my friend Seth for his awesome Thanksgiving post. Here is my list of things I am most grateful for:

The Gospel: Of course, that comes first because everything else I have comes from having the gospel. For my testimony, my temple covenants, and the tender mercies of my Heavenly Father I am grateful.

Shane: Truly a blessing second only to the Gospel. He is truly my best friend and there is no one I would rather share my life with. He loves me, he makes me laugh, he keeps me in check (in a good way), and he is an incredible father. I adore him.

Henry: We waited a long time for Hank to join our family, and when he finally arrived he turned my life upside down. There were times in the beginning where I truly did not believe that I was cut out for motherhood, but he stuck with me (maybe that's why they don't learn to walk right away) and now we are a happy pair. He has made me so much better, so much more patient, selfless, and structured. My days are full of Hank and for that I am grateful.

My Family: For the family I was born into, and the family I married into. For their love and support, and for those life lessons that can only be taught by those you call family.

My Calling: I can't tell you what I meant to move into a ward that I feel like I already belong to. It was a fulfillment of Heavenly Father's promise to me that I would find my life in Kennewick. I love the sisters I serve with, and those I try my best to serve.

My Friends: It is truly a blessing to have so many of my closest friends be members of my family, and a blessing to have friends that feel like members of my family. So to sisters, cousins, neighbors, running buddies, A-Listers, VBBFF's, WB's/former roommates, and of course, Traci, I am grateful.

Home: This has taken new meaning this year for this Army brat. Home, which was always more of an idea than a place, became a tangible address. I am so proud of our home, and grateful to have it.

The Impossible: I am grateful to achieve the impossible and prove myself wrong this year by becoming a runner.

Now my list of one word answers:

Chocolate (I'm with you Seth)
Dance floors
Great Books
The Beatles
New recipes
nap time
bath time
Musicals
Seasons
The Neighborhood
Prayers

In Memoriam

2007-11-19T22:49:00.000-08:00

Today marked the passing of Cujo "The Killer Dog" McLaughlin. Cujo was 15 years old, (that's 105 years old in Human Years...enough to be honored by Mr. Williard Scott) and is survived by his loving families, the McLaughlins, Joneses and Johnsons. He loved jumping, meat-treats, and any human being he came into contact with. He hated vacuums, Halloween costumes, and going to the vet. He was the survivor of a vicious dog attack, being run-over by the family home teacher, and being nearly poisoned to death by chocolate. He was a good sport, congenial, and always willing to share a good laugh, cry or nap.

As Cujo got older, he could no longer jump as high or often, but he never lost his wicked sense of humor. This morning, after a long and happy life, Cujo's mighty heart gave out on him, and he died in the arms of his very first love, Bethany Jones.

Although his family will mourn him, they take comfort in knowing that once again, he is able to run and jump, and that no bird or carpet is safe from "Cuj" in heaven, (where no doubt, he believes he is in charge. )

Thank you, Cujo. You were as loyal and loving a friend as could be imagined. You made us laugh, you loved unconditionally, and you were always a sweet gentleman. You were always there to welcome us home, and I hope that holds true at least once more. We will miss you Cuj.

When heartbreak comes.

2007-11-17T11:51:00.000-08:00

I got my heartbroken for the second time in my life this week. Maybe I shouldn’t say heartbreak because it has nothing to do with Shane and me, but the way I have been feeling can only be compared to that most devastating and human experience.

My heart is breaking for my friends.

Details aren’t important, and maybe the only reason I am doing this is to reach out in someway to those who I can’t speak to yet. But if you are there, know that I love you and am praying for you.

When heartbreak comes, you realize there are no good guys and bad guys, just people who make terrible mistakes. When heartbreak comes you realize what a blessing normalcy can be. When heartbreak comes, you listen to Alanis Morisette, and thank God for rain and M&M’s.

And now, Mr. Langston Hughes.

I loved my friend.

He went away from me.

There's nothing more to say.

The poem ends

Soft as it began-

I loved my friend.

What Happens in Vegas...

2007-11-14T14:30:00.000-08:00

I just got back last night from a fabulous girl's weekend in Las Vegas! Though I can't share all the gritty details (it may be too shocking for some readers!), I can say that we had an absolute blast! Any day I get to spend with my girls is a good day. 4 are living in Mesa, AZ, 1 is in Henderson, NV and of course, me!

On my flight there, I was flipping though a magazine and found an ad for a dance club called "Polyesters". It was 4 rooms, each playing a different decade of music 70's-Today. Since we love dancing more than fat kids love cake, we set off to the Stratosphere. It was a total blast! It wasn't too crowded, it was playing some of my favorite tunes, and people were so fun and respectful. It was like a Stake dance on the strip! We actually got complemented on how fun we were having without alcohol. We had so much fun we went back for a second round on Saturday night...

We buffeted, shopped, got pedicures, gabbed, rode the roller coaster, cried, and got absolutely no sleep. It was off the hook!

Some photographic evidence:

Here we are chowing at The Original Pancake House

Our beautiful toes...and one set of hands

Some pretty high stakes card playing...Notice the lovely poker faces

The girls (clockwise from the top Erin, Lyndi, Kelly, Me, Bethany, and Melisa)

Thanks so much to everyone who came. It meant so much to get to spend time with people that I love so much. You complete me! Also, a huge thank you to all the husbands that sent us away, and wisely, asked very few questions!

What Heaven Sees in You

2007-11-08T10:09:00.000-08:00

Last night, I was so priviledged to be able to speak at our ward's young women Evening of Excellence. My remarks were based around the song "Will you have eyes to see what Heaven sees in you?" from the "Women of Destiny" CD. I think it went really well. The room was decorated so beautifully, and the spirit was so strong the entire evening.

For those of you who are interested, this is the video I put together using pictures of our girls and the leaders. It was a big project, but so worth all the effort.

Like I told my mother-in-law, it's so wonderful to know that Heavenly Father cares so much about these girls, that he made it so clear to me what I was supposed to say.

"Putting on the Ritz!"

2007-11-01T11:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Halloween, and since Hank's costume had been chosen since about March, I was pretty excited. We decided to make him "Hankenstein" partly as an homage to the funniest movie ever made, Mel Brooks "Young Frankenstein".

Before: My sweet, innocent, unsuspecting baby boy.

After: Behold...the terrifying...the inhuman....the MONSTER!

Let's just say, it was an interesting project. He didnt love having his hair sprayed black (though I will say it finally made him look a little like me), and we had to distract him with Teddy Grahams in order for him to sit through makeup. But the finished product was quite fabulous in my opinion. All this kid needed was an angry mob and we would have been set!

Here we are at Hank's first try at Trick or Treating, at our friends the Killians:

And after a long evening of terrifying the neighborhood and ward Trunk or Treat, our monster needed a bath!

The Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-27T20:05:00.000-07:00

I love Autumn! For the past four years we have missed this season so much while living in Arizona. The leaves on the trees are so beautiful, the air feels crisp, and Agri-Tourism is in full force!

Today we took Hank to the Pumpkin Patch at Country Mercentile. And like the true city-slicker I am, I gladly plunked down my $6 to pet some farm animals, walk through a corn maze, and take a hay-ride out to the pumpkin patch.

Hank visiting the Petting Zoo:

Hank & Haylee:

Hank's first time on a tractor... Too bad you can't see the tear in Shane's eye.

As you can tell from his face, he had the time of his life!

"That girl is a running fool!"

2007-10-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is kind of old news, but since it ranks amongst my greatest life's accomplishments, (along with my college degree and getting some poor sucker to marry me) I thought I should share. This summer, my friend, neighbor and fellow ward member Alison Chan asked if I would be interested in doing a running program with her.

Let me back up. I have never been a runner. I couldn't run a mile in Jr. High if my frizzy fro was on fire. I couldn't run a half mile, quarter mile...a lap. I couldn't run to the mail box.

But I was lonely, still fighting pregnancy weight, and defiantly needing a project, so I said yes. Alison found this program online called "Couch Potato to 5K" and we set the goal to run our first 5K by Thanksgiving.

I am not going to lie. It was tough. And there was no way I could have done it without Alison's help. Some particularly difficult milestones were running 3 straight minutes, our 4th of July run in 95 degree weather, running 8 miles straight, running 20 minutes straight, and coming back after a two week break to complete my first 30 minute run (I'll never forget this run. It was 6:30 am, the wind was howling, and when we were about half way done I looked at Alison and said, "I hate running". She laughed and said "Me too.")

But all the hard work paid off, and on September 29th, Alison and I ran the Kennewick Washington Annual Grape Crush Rush invitational. We finished 21 out of 28 women, but the point is we finished. As we ran into the finishing area, I started to tear up and I thanked Alison for this experience. Shane, Hank, a big group of Shane's family, and some ward members were there to cheer us at the finish line. It was a great moment.

My New Toy!

2007-10-22T20:56:00.000-07:00

Shane and I invested in some video making software this weekend. We think it will really help us get our Captain and Tenille tribute band music videos even more awesome than they already are. They also come in handy with family pictures.

"Even for the internet, it's pretty shocking..."

2007-10-22T20:06:00.000-07:00

Well, everyone else was doing it. I decided (once again) to succomb to peer pressure, and try to be one of the cool kids (several times attempted...never once successful) and start my own blog. "Life on the Sunny Side of the Street" has two-fold purpose. One is that our cute little house is east/west facing, so our life is, in fact, on the sunny side of our street. The other reason is that all in all we are a very happy trio.

Thanks to all who visit this blog (meaning very bored strangers and my mom).