The Mommy Diaries

Team Jensen

2010-07-08T15:35:00.000-07:00

It is starting to feel like summer now that the weather is above 75*. It also feels like summer since we have been hanging out doing nothing. So far this summer we've landscaped the front yard, sold the hot tub, fixed up and sold the trailer. We've also had the Jorgensons up for a visit, Batemans on the fourth of July and are cleaning house for a few more guests to come. This afternoon has been pretty perfect in my book. Zeke and Navie are really fun company. We actually got the younger three to take a nap all at the same time.

P.S. Don't double click on the picture to expand it until after I finish vacuuming the floor. And if you do, don't say I didn't warn you.

Land of Plenty

2010-02-19T16:30:00.000-08:00

My mom was reading a book, she'll have to comment if you want the title. I can't remember it. She asked me the question, "do you think America is special." Yes, I do think America is special. Anywhere I can safely raise my babies, clothes and feed them is special. When I got Rockwell out of his crib after his nap I had to laugh. The lucky chap had two sippies for crying out loud. One in each hand, grinning from ear to ear.

Birthday Week

2010-02-06T08:28:00.000-08:00

Nyah just about cried she was so happy with her big dolly. Zeke was excited to turn 12 and get to go to the temple for the first time. He had me tell him exactly what it would be like from "the minute you walk in the door." Friends called and dropped by on my birthday making me smile. And speaking of birthdays, Navie informed me that we need to make a treat for her half-birthday for school. I sort of thought that not having to take a treat was the beauty of summer birthday's but apparently their teacher/school is an equal opportunity birthday celebrator. Then again maybe I'm still scarred from the 1st grade birthday incident with Zeke. I tried to pass off a huge box of airhead candy rolls the morning of Zeke's birthday. Only to find out that "all the mom's make cupcakes." The pressure I tell ya. I tried to tell him I wasn't like "all the other mom's." The look on his face was so funny, it was like "yeah, I already know that." At that point I just caved and spent the morning making 29 cupcakes. I guess it's true, a mother's love knows no bounds.

What's Blooming

2010-02-06T08:14:00.000-08:00

I bought a kit for spring bulbs at Christmas time. I bought one for our friends and then on an impulse one for us as well. Turns out it was probably a bad gift since our friends announced that they were pregnant. Pregnant, even after having a tubal?! What pregnant girl needs something else to take care of besides her children. But, who would have known that this little pot of flowers would bring so much joy to our house this winter. In fact after the bloomed Shawn really wanted to plant more so we rounded up some small bulbs our neighbors gave up that were too little to bother planting outside.

So now we have a new batch of cuties just waiting to grow up.

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-02T14:32:00.000-08:00

We decided to stay home so Shawn could finish his hunt over Thanksgiving break. Luckily, he got an elk before Thanksgiving but since we had already made plans to stay at a cabin we just relaxed instead of hunting. This is the forest service cabin at Warm Springs. Behind the cabin is a huge waterfall that leads into the river right out front. The water is 50 degrees year round so it doesn't freeze. It was really fun to have some much needed family time without any distractions. We went on a snow hike, cut and christmas tree and played games. The highlight of the trip was hooky bobbing behind the truck up and over the hills. We came home and cooked a turkey and hung out over the weekend. Shawn and Zeke are now working on tanning the elk hide as described in Zeke's copy of the Dangerous Book for Boys. I hope it turns out.

Bringing Home the Bacon

2009-11-21T08:48:00.000-08:00

They did it! Shawn bagged his elk today. It was really cool that Zeke, Navie, and our friends Micheal and Holden were there. I bet you can guess what we will be doing? At least I'm not pregnant this time around. Actually I guess I should bestow my beloved role as butcher's assistant to Zeke. YEAH!!!!

Rockwell

2009-11-21T08:43:00.000-08:00

Kenzie brought over this picture of Rockwell as a gift. I had to take a picture of the picture since I couldn't get the saved photo to upload. It looks even better in person. I think it is perfect! I love it so much. I had told her how I haven't taken pictures of the younger two boys like I would of liked to and so she came to the rescue. She tooks some photos while she was babysitting them one day. What an awesome suprise.

What we did today

2009-11-18T15:29:00.000-08:00

20 somethings

2009-11-09T14:17:00.000-08:00

Guess what my neighbors are doing already? Putting us to shame! Here they are already working on their lighting display and I haven't even picked out our christmas color scheme 2009 yet. Wahh! I guess I'll have to do "homespun christmas." No, that's not what I did last year. Last year was "HOMEMADE christmas" It is totally different. Homespun is where you use all your christmas crafts and tie pieces of raggedy fabric to everything. Silly peeps, the raggedy fabric really jazzes it up you know.

Well, good thing we love our cute neighbors so much. If we didn't we would definitely be toilet papering their house for family home evening. I love it when it is my night for "activity."

P.S. Just because I take picture of my neighbors without their permission and post it to my public blog doesn't mean I'm a weirdo stalker. However, I will concede that it does prove that my house elf needs to get cracking on my window cleaning since you can barely see the picture through the grime.

Rexburg Temple

2009-11-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

Shawn wanted us to see the sunset and full moon the other night. By the time I rounded up five kids the sun had set. Lucky for me the next night we had another pretty sunset.

Sugar Rush

2009-11-01T12:50:00.000-08:00

Last year on Halloween I found out that we had to move out of our rental house in 5 days while I was 37 weeks pregnant. Family came up and helped pack us, a sweet family let us stay in their basement so we weren't homeless. More family came up to help move us into the house we bought. I think everyone else who knew us remembered to pray for us. It was a trial that is now in the past. However, I'm sure you can imagine how I felt this year as I was trick or treating with our great friends who happen to be our neighbors around our fabulous neighborhood. Every smiling face was a tender mercy as the kids raced from house to house. A lot can happen in a year. Some are better than others, this happened to be one of the good ones.

Visiting Teaching

2009-10-13T09:41:00.000-07:00

This picture is of my visiting teachers. They come once a month to my house and share a spiritual message with me. Sister Forsgren just told me today that she is moving to Utah. I could just bawl like a baby! I love them so much. I know that her family is so excited for her to be closer to them but I will miss her coming to visit. They both have a perspective on life that is so refreshing to hear. Not to mention their stories of kids and hubbies are so funny. It really is true that service begets love. I'm so grateful for their service to our family.

A Saturday Afternoon

2009-08-01T14:51:00.000-07:00

Today Shawn and the older kids tiled part of the basement floor. Opps, did I forget to mention that I flooded the basement while Shawn was away at WSU for two weeks? So they went swimming on campus after they finished all their hard work. With the little two boys asleep, Nyah decided that she wanted to go in the hot tub. Afterwards we cooled off with a smoothie. To make the smoothie I just blend up a bunch of leftover fruit and then freeze in a old mason jar leaving an inch headspace for expansion. Then we just pull it out of the freezer while we play so it defrosts enough to share.

Patience

2009-07-20T15:21:00.000-07:00

Remember this spring when everyone was loving their tulips and warm weather. I do, I was shoveling my snow drift into the sun so it could melt. But, patience does pay off because I am loving this summer weather. I mean who doesn't love 80* summers?

Rockwell is crawling all over the house army style. He is a fun little baby. Now he holds the family record for the most choking attempts. He has a sweet little innocence about his smile.

The Pity Party Is Now Over

2009-07-11T15:58:00.000-07:00

At the time I wrote my previous post I felt overwhelmed and tired. Maybe someone can relate. Those feelings didn't really go away I just started to feel like feeling sorry for myself wasn't helping. I turned to prayer to straighten my feelings out and it was a much better solution than hoping for a genie bottle and three magic wishes. I haven't quite given up on the house elf fantasy yet but I feel so much happier.

Then the next day while grocery shopping I overheard an employee complaining about the shifts she had to work, ect, ect. to coworkers, customers, and anyone else who would listen and I asked myself, "do you really want to be the complainer?" NO THANKS! Life's too short, eh?

We've been having fun. We threw a little party for mom's big birthday. It has been fun to have her and Vynessa up here. Her kids are totally cute.

Bald Face Lie?

2009-07-01T20:45:00.000-07:00

A good friend once told me that after you have three kids that it's not that big of a deal to have more. Her reasoning was that you are already busy so what's the difference in being a little more busy.

Um.. There is a big difference. And the difference is called "lack of time to get anything done, " besides last weeks laundry and yesterdays dishes. Maybe I'm just a rookie. There are like a bazillion moms in rexburg with SIX kids. And I might add they have time to get their hair highlighted! Last time my hair saw highlights was like 1999.

But, the weird thing is, tonight as I was doing laundry I was really happy. I even went the extra mile and put Shawn's clothes away for him which is proof that I was in a good mood. It felt good to be doing what needed to be done even if it wasn't what I thought I'd like to be doing.

So, maybe five kids wasn't a big deal for my friend and it is a big deal for me. I still wouldn't change a thing and I just can't help thinking that it will turn out to be the best deal of my lifetime.

P.S. Since I'm being honest I would change one little thing... Shawn would be finished with his degree!haha

Life of the Party

2009-06-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

It had been raining alot so instead of swimming we had to make the best of the hot tub.

Cousins Visit

2009-06-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

We've been lucky enough to have two sets of cousins come up here to visit us. First we saw Grandma Ruth, Aunt Melanie, Patience and Emma. It rained alot during their visit but we were still able to paint rocks and get in the hot tub. We can't wait until they live closer. I forgot to take a picture but Melanie has some great pictures on her blog.

Then we had the four Bateman cousins visit. We went to the park, library, and played tennis. Everyone has a cousin in the same age range except for Jaden so they pretty much played non stop. Having 9 kids under the roof was pretty fun. Everyone helped out and pitched in on clean up. Maybe it helped that Shawn always had a dessert ready "when the house was clean".

Memorial Day Camp Trip

2009-06-12T19:15:00.000-07:00

We headed out on Memorial Day weekend for another camping trip. Earlier this Spring we spent one night camping in the St. Anthony Sand Dunes to try out the trailer. This time we wanted to be in the mountains (of course, who wouldn't?). We spent a night at Riverside, Flatrock, and Henry's Lake campground. It was fun to check out a couple different places. I loved how close everything is to home. The fishing was great at Henry's, after Shawn did a little reconnaissance of a fly fisher person. That's right-this is a politically correct blog entry.

I loved the scenery. I loved having no distractions from focusing on the kids for a couple days. I loved the campfire chats with Shawn. I loved it all! Pretty much a perfect camp trip.

A Missed Opportunity and the Lessons Learned

2009-06-08T06:32:00.000-07:00

Our family sits in the second row to the front for Sacrament Meeting. Oddly, yesterday "our" row was nearly filled. But, that was only the first surprise I'd have that morning. As I look over I see Brother Eyrings family in the first pew. I think to myself there must be a baby blessing until I look up to the Bishop and see President Eyring sitting up front. Whoa! Now I try to get my oldest daughter to scoot down the pew so there is room for all of us to squeeze in without causing a bigger scene then we already are.

So first I'll tell you what happened, and then what I wished had happened. We finally get settled in and a couple minutes later the meeting starts. I'm still trying to figure out what is going on. This isn't something I've ever experienced before and have no idea what to expect. I'm new to this ward but I've heard rumors of general authorities visiting this ward before so I'm wondering if the rest of the ward knows something I don't. We have the sacrament and then proceed to the bearing of testimonies. I feel the spirit as members bear their testomonies. A desire enters my heart and I quickly pray to hear President Eyring's testimony. As the meeting goes on I'm really excited by the whole situation asking myself question after question. It is hard to concentrate but I try to at least keep myself and the family quiet. The testimonies run the meeting a little late, we close and President Eyring leaves.

However, after we get home my husband then tells our family that President Eyring would of liked to bear his testimony. UGHH! Now it begins to hit me. Here is what I wished would of happened. I wished that I had followed the prompting early this week that said in my mind at least twice, "sacrament meeting begins with the prelude music." If we had not rushed in at the last minute I know I would have been a little less excited and more in tune with the spirit. Then I wish I had remembered the part in the primary song, "reverence is more than just quietly sitting, its thinking of Father above." Although I was sitting quietly, inside I was practically screaming. All the questions I had, my assumptions, my excitement were roaring in my head. The worst part is that a lot of it focused on me. I wish I had been more humble in the situation. Looking back, I could of spent more time in gratitude for the opportunity to be at the feet of an a Apostle. Followed by fervent prayer to hear his testimony.

Finally, I wish I would of recognized him for who is truly is, A Special Witness of Christ. Upon first seeing him I recognized him as the First Counselor to the Prophet, someone whose counsel I read and listen to often. Unfortunately what I recognized most was his physical presence. What I want to recognize when seeing an Apostle is their unique witness. A witness that bears testimony of Christ. A testimony that will invite my spirit to have a closer relationship with my Heavenly Father.

I felt like I missed an opportunity Sunday morning. But, more importantly I'm seeing that I don't want to miss a lifetime of opportunities to know my Savior. I don't need to wait for Christ to appear in my life, if I knock He will answer.

Alphabet Night

2009-03-20T08:12:00.000-07:00

We are trying to teach Nyah her "ABC's" and Shawn had the idea to have alphabet nights. We've had
A- activity
B-bowling on the wii
C-cookies for dessert

and then

D-donkey basketball. Really funny!
E-exercise
F-fudge brownies

and today is JKL. The older kids want to have a j-ump, l-eap, k-ick night and buy a trampoline. So tempting since I loved our trampoline in Oregon but we will probably have J-ust K-eep L-earning (library night) or J-ust K-eep L-aughing.

2009-03-18T15:33:00.000-07:00

I lost some money, not a lot but it still made me sad to lose something. I like to think of myself as the type of person that is a finder, not a loser. To console myself I told Zeke that, "I'm sad I lost some money." I'm a simple girl, I like to keep the drama to a minimum. His response was, "Oh well." Just like that. My sweet little Zeker tells his mommy, "oh well." So I look at him trying to show him I really am serious. Then he tells me, "that's what you'd say to me isn't it?" Then I bust out laughing so hard because YES! that is exactly what I would say and have said a bazillion times to him. So anyways, now I'm contemplating being a more sympathetic mom so he doesn't grow up all cold hearted like. Then again, the first kid is a trial run anyway right? Oops. Did I just type that outloud. Just Kidding. He's such a great kid it would be hard for even us to mess him up.

Spring Fever

2009-03-04T09:40:00.001-08:00

I keep hearing about people working in their yards over the weekend. This is our version of Spring Fever. Roller Skating in the snow. Nyah fell down because the junks of frozen snow on our walkway were just too bumpy but she definitely tried her hardest to get outside and have some fun. Actually I really shouldn't complain since a recent rain storm melted the snow off part of our grass. I'm having an mental spring fever this year. There are like a bajillion (its way more than a million) ideas and fun things I can't wait to do. For example, sewing. I really want to whip up a skirt for funsees. Then I want to find a fun blog to read about sewing that makes me want to sew even more. I can't wait to organize and decorate my laundry room. I'm thinking lime green, black and white graphic motifs with scarlet red accents. Am I out of control or what! Right before I go to sleep I smile inside thinking about what I want to do the next day.

Two months

2009-02-11T19:39:00.000-08:00

We're just gaga over little Rockwell. Here he is at a little over two months. I vaguely remember some parenting book instructing parents not to compare children but we all know after the third kid it's "jungle rules" parenting where anything goes. So, I don't mind saying he is the easiest baby I've had! Or maybe I finally have enough practice at being a mommy.

Pretty things part II

2009-02-11T16:17:00.001-08:00

Right now all I can see is white outside so I'm sharing some of the colorful pictures I took at the Builders Convention. They had 4 concept houses built outside to take a tour through each with a specific theme. They highlighted media, innovation,green build, ect. I liked learning about the green build products and I loved the interior decorating.

This is probably old news but it is two round knobs mounted instead of a regular curtain rod
One trend I noticed in tile was that it is in extreme sizing. It is either really tiny or huge- like 2ft. huge. Preferably both in the same room.
I liked this room for reasons that are hard to see in this picture but it had a lot of different elements. The countertop in the bottom left has round irredecent circles, the shelves have shiny tile, and the tub is another tile. It is fun to see a new style that isn't totally predictable.

Pretty things part I

2009-02-11T15:26:00.000-08:00

I think this painted dresser is really fun and it doesn't look to hard to copy. If only I had an extra dresser laying around.This house was labeled something about "country living" . I'd have to say that a grey and yellow color scheme is pretty forward country living.You can never go wrong with a group of three I don't think I could ever pull this off but I really like shiny things. Maybe I have some raccoon in my blood.Yes, I did make Shawn hobble up and down the stairs so I could see every decorated room. Hey, I needed to have someone to be able to talk about every minute detail with. But, you crafters out there will love me for this though. See that tree in the background. That is a painted trunk with patterned scrapbook paper leaves. And if your name is Kylee you could CRICUT CUT THEM! AHHH!!!!! But wait there's more. Then cut out paper birdys and hang it from the ceiling like a mobile.

Who is that masked man?

2009-01-27T14:51:00.000-08:00

I don't know who this kindly man is who came to plow our driveway but a big THANKS! to whoever it may be. Seriously, we have the best neighbors. We also had this big yellow tractor thingee come and plow up our neglected dead end today. Yeah.

A Week in Review

2009-01-27T07:23:00.000-08:00

Let's just start out with a picture of what I was doing one week ago today. Isn't that pretty. These were potted in huge planters outside of the hotel in Las Vegas. We were in Vegas for the International Builders Show. A group of BYU-Idaho students were competing there and part of the department Shawn works in went down as well. There was a lot of cool stuff to see and the convention was HUGE! We took the kids with us and had a mini vacay.
one morning i took the kids to the
shark reef aquarium at mandalay
bay. It was overpriced but it was a price I was willing to pay since it was at the end of the strip and I really wanted to stay as far as possible away from the strip so they didn't catch all those "bad germs" if you know what I mean. Last time I spent time in Vegas it was during their family friendly period. Well, that has now ended. In my opinion the best part of any vacation is being by the water, either the pool or the beach though, and there was plenty to do with a lazy river and several pools at the condo we stayed at. (Thanks, Becky :)

I've learned that when it comes to vacations you really have to live in the minute because nothing lasts forever. So, to wrap up my week in a review this is what we woke up to today. 10-4 Good Buddy, that's a negative 18* and no school!

The Case of the Missing Outfit

2009-01-16T08:24:00.001-08:00

The Case of the Missing Outfit is now closed! I couldn't find the boys blessing outfit for Rockwell's blessing day. I looked in every box to no avail. Apparently I didn't look hard enough since it was right there in the middle of a box I was going through in the boy's room yesterday. I still wanted to get a picture of him in the outfit for reference though. He is growing really fast. Too fast for this momma. The other picture is of the kids watching smurfs before school. I've totally brainwashed them into my old favorite so I can watch it to.

Thanks Kylee

2009-01-14T11:45:00.000-08:00

My sister in law Kylee cut me out this cute vinyl sign. She had to leave before I could get it up so here's a picture of her work. We had a really fun visit with their family. They spent a couple days up here.

Today Nyah got in trouble and she told me that she wanted her Grandma's to come watch her. They both spent time watching the kids while I was recovering from having the baby. I thought it was pretty funny.

We went night sledding for Zeke's birthday. Navie had a wreck that left her bruised and scratched up though.

Now that Christmas and Birthday week are over I'm really excited to have more free time to focus on getting some things done with the house. I have some loose ends I want to get put away from the move and some drawers to re-arrange. I love January! I feel like it is a fresh start after the holidays. It's been pretty cold here but not much new snow. I can't wait for another good snowstorm to mix things up again.

Guest Post- "Danny Jensen"

2009-01-04T22:12:00.000-08:00

When I read this email I laughed. I love laughing. So, Danny wins this weeks Guest Post spot on "Mommy Diaries."

"It took you 10 years to get cell phones...I thought it would have taken you another 10 years to get on facebook. ha ha. Atleast Melanie Ann ows me $10 now. Tell Teague congrats on the baby blessing."

P.S. It's also funny because now we're not the only ones that call Rockwell, Teague and vise versa

My New Years Goal

2009-01-04T22:09:00.000-08:00

For the new year Teague has set a goal to eat as much frosting as possible.

Snowed In

2008-12-25T09:22:00.000-08:00

We wish you a Merry Christmas. I guess we are staying home today. The forecast for last night said a storm would start at 10 pm. At 9 I looked out the window and the wind was blowing. I checked again at midnight for Santa and the storm had already started. This morning is nasty! I totally love it. But, I do hope that everyone in Iceburg has somewhere warm to be today.

Home 2009

2008-12-20T12:26:00.000-08:00

I was asked for some pictures from home so here they are. Today I'm painting the baby's room and Shawn is making a bed for Navie. We are in a hurry to finish before the BYU bowl game today. Danny and Mel are coming up to visit in true cougar style.

We Moved Again

2008-12-15T12:50:00.000-08:00

So the house we were going to buy didn't work out as we had hoped so we packed up and moved all our stuff in storage and then stayed in a one bedroom apartment until we could move into another house. Two weeks after Rockwell was born we were able to move into our new house and we couldn't of been happier to finally be homeowners again. Of course, there is a short novel of little details that I'm omitting but I like to save the really juicy gossip for my personal journal.

Guest Post- "Mom Bateman"

2008-12-13T19:50:00.000-08:00

I'm going to share part of an email my mom sent me. I'd like to keep it as part of our little family journal I have here online. I hope she doesn't mind! Also for any friends from our old home town who are thinking to themselves that they didn't know we were moving. We only found out ourselves a little while ago so I'll fill in all the blanks in my next post.

"When we were in Rexburg and watching the kids in the tiny apartment. I was sitting at the folding table, probably coloring with Navie, and I was thinking about Rockwell being born, and the kids being sick, and other kids missing you, and your coming back the to little apartment, and then having the big move in front of you again, and I looked up and there was the wonderful picture of Christ and the little child with the candle that you had hung up. A feeling a peace came upon me as I realized, we were all the little child, but Christ is our light and all would be well, We are never in the dark."

Thanks Mom for sharing your sentiments, I'm officially admitting you are "always right."

Saturday is a special day...

2008-12-13T19:37:00.000-08:00

It's the day we get ready for Sunday. As Shawn and I drove home from the store tonight I noticed quite a few of our neighbors were shoveling the snow. So I asked, "why is everyone shoveling snow now that it is cold and dark?" Shawn answers, "the storm is over." I keep thinking to myself that the storm will be over tomorrow and it would be smarter to shovel with the sun shining. A couple minutes later Shawn said, "and it is Sunday tomarrow." Ah HA! I love a mystery solved. But I love even more that my neighbors show reverence for the Lord's day through obedience to the commandment to keep the Sabbath Day Holy. It's true you never know when people are going to follow your example.

A little of this and that

2008-11-19T14:06:00.000-08:00

Here's what we did today. Grandma and Grandpa brought over the little ones to meet the "Red Rock." BTW Shawn came up with that cute nickname. It was fun to see the kiddos. Later this afternoon Shawn took Nyah to the doctor for an ear infection. BOOO!! It's high time that we are all feeling healthy. Wish us luck tonight for a good nights rest.

First Visitors

2008-11-18T18:49:00.000-08:00

Rockwell meets his family!

Flexin' his Muscles

2008-11-18T09:32:00.000-08:00

Look at those biceps...he wasn't just sitting around for the past nine months! He must have sensed the need to hold his own with the 4 other siblings waiting to play with him at home.

It's a boy...a big boy!

2008-11-18T09:04:00.000-08:00

Rockwell has arrived. Hilary and the baby are both doing great and both are now relaxing. We arrived here at the hospital around 6:00 am and at 8:09 the doctor delivered Rockwell via "C"-section. I tried to take as many picture as possible of Rockwells arrival for his scrapbook-Hilary's orders. He was 9 lbs 1 oz and 21 inches long...Look at those chubby cheeks!

2008-10-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

I'm supposed to be doing important stuff today.

2008-10-29T13:32:00.000-07:00

I'm loving these pretty fall days.

"Be One"

2008-10-07T06:39:00.000-07:00

I two thoughts about the article in the Ensign.

Be One

By President Henry B. Eyring First Counselor in the First Presidency

My first thought was about how unity is a commandment. Sometimes I get in the train of thought that, "sure thats a great idea, if life works out that way." So reading this scripture and following quote reminded me of the correct way to love others.

The Savior of the world, Jesus Christ, said of those who would be part of His Church: “Be one; and if ye are not one ye are not mine” (D&C 38:27). And at the Creation of man and woman, unity for them in marriage was not given as hope; it was a command! “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). Our Heavenly Father wants our hearts to be knit together. That union in love is not simply an ideal. It is a necessity.

Then my second realization came at the end of the article. After reading the ending quote, I feel like the spirit was teaching me that instead of being bothered when others around us don't have the same talents or abilities that we have we should use those talents to serve them and bring unity into our relationships. A simple example of this happens every time I visit my mom. I'm not that great with an iron. Mostly by choice, possibly lack of practice. Any who, my mom is like some sort of professional. Wrinkles are banished, collars stay in place. You get the idea. So when we visit she offers to iron for us. I think these little services don e with a smile can go a long way in our homes. Instead of using our difference to divide us they can be used as ways to show love to each other.

It is to see the bounties which God pours upon us not only as a mark of His favor but an opportunity to join with those around us in greater service. A husband and his wife learn to be one by using their similarities to understand each other and their differences to complement each other in serving one another and those around them. In the same way, we can unite with those who do not accept our doctrine but share our desire to bless the children of our Heavenly Father.

Hope everyone else liked this article. My october issue of the Ensign is in the mail right now and I'm looking forward to reading it as well.

"A dog's life" Part I

2008-09-23T11:06:00.001-07:00

The "Bookworms" have finished part I of A Dog's Life. It has been fun to snuggle up and read together. I even stopped being such a book hog and let Navie and Zeke each read a chapter out loud. Zeke thinks its sad & Navie is excited to find out what happens. Nyah and Teague think it is awesome they get to jump around on my bed while we are reading. Shawn thinks getting to go to bed earlier is awesome. I think it is funny that I'm reading a book about dog's. Mostly funny because I'm not much of an animal lover. Not an animal hater but just not really into cuddling up with the furry things. This is a good reminder to be gentle with all of God's creature's. Even if you are allergic to them.

Date Night

2008-09-23T10:57:00.001-07:00

Last weekend Shawn and I went to "Buckets and Tap Shoes." I must say it was pretty entertaining. The frugal side of me is loving living in a college town with student and faculty discounts. Going to an event where almost every single person was following the honor code they signed is so great. Last year at the pool Zeke said he felt like it wasn't as fun because everywhere he looked there were immodest girls. He did give credit to Navie who was one of the only girls wearing a one piece swimming suit. I'm excited to be able to take the kids places on campus where modesty isn't an issue. I've got more to say about the honor code but it will have to wait until another day when I have more time.

Fall Friends

2008-09-23T10:47:00.000-07:00

Hello! Even though I wouldn't put up my fall decorations mother nature has a mind of her own and it is cooling off here. Slowly the leaves are falling and I keep warning the kids to play outside as much as possible. Zeke and Navie are building a tree "fort" that I accidently called a playhouse much to Navie's disapproval. When they get bored with that after like 6 hours straight then they head over to the woodpile and chop wood for a couple hours. What a life!

Chapter Two- The Wheelbarrow

2008-09-16T15:07:00.000-07:00

Last night we got in late but I'm more excited than the kids to read so we stayed up for chapter two, The wheelbarrow. Navie's book order came in yesterday as well so I had some competition with her book, "Hodge, Podge Modge." I can't complain since my goal was to have her enjoy reading more.

Question:

1. Squirrel felt warm and safe in his wheelbarrow. When have you felt safe and protected?

The Bookworms

2008-09-14T19:26:00.000-07:00

The kids decided at dinner to call our reading group the "Bookworms." We started out slow but I'm feeling great about how things ended after the first chapter. Navie was very disappointed that there were no pictures with the story. I convinced her to give it a go anyways. I'm reading out loud. It is fun for me to read aloud as long as I can catch my breath long enough. I have the third trimester breathing difficulties. It feels like the baby is laying on top of my lungs so I'll read as long as I can and then pass it off to Shawn.

After the first chapter Navie was confused about a couple of things so I tried to explain them so it would be a better experience for her. The more she understood the more she started liking the storyline. Since there are no pictures, I then asked the kids some questions to get them thinking and using their imagination. Some questions to ask are

1. What kind of animals live around our house.
2. How do you think the animals would describe our property and yard.
3. If we had a dog what would kind of family would she say we are?

Then I went over the story line again because Navie brought up on the first page she lived with a lady that smiled at her. I explained that she is an old dog looking back and telling the story of her life. And then went into a couple more details about the first chapter.

After Navie asked all her questions she then wanted to read another chapter. I told her that I wouldn't read ahead but we would save it to read chapter two tomarrow night.

So good luck everyone joining in. Its never to late to start. Even if you can't get your kids on board you could read to your spouse or just join in the group. It was nice to be able to tell the kids that some of their cousins were going to do the same thing in their families. Even if it doesn't turn out as good as you hope with your kiddos don't give up! Drop me a line and I'll call any of the kids who need encouragement!

P.S. Who would of thought I'd be reading a dog lovers book!!!!

Let the reading begin.

2008-09-10T14:45:00.000-07:00

Hi guys. I'm starting a reading project. I heard of a good book for kids and so I wanted to invite anyone who wants to join in, (grandma's are mandatory) to read a book and blog together. I thought it would be great for some of our kids who, not naming any names are having a hard time getting into reading. (That includes you, Camron) In fact, maybe we should just name it "Project Camron" in honor of my brother who is a doctor and yet refuses to read anything except for very short emails. So the book I chose is titled A dog's life, The autobiography of a stray By Ann M. Martin. I got my copy from the library but it is also on Amazon for $1.00. I'm planning on reading it aloud to the kids and crossing my fingers that Nyah might possibily be interested. I'll post pictures and stuff as we go along. I'll start on Sunday. I have to speak in church on Sunday so I don't want all the pre-talk jitters to ruin any of the fun I have planned. That also gives you a couple days for people to pick a copy up. Feel free to join in anytime!

Happy Birthday Baby Navie

2008-09-01T19:32:00.000-07:00

I missed Navie's birthday this summer on my blogging hiatus. She can't wait to get baptized now.

Sewing Lessons

2008-09-01T19:19:00.000-07:00

Nyah modeling her skirt.
Teague using the oldest trick in the book to be included.
Zeke needed a little extra practice sewing straight. Navie is supervising, of course.

After the kids finished all their chores I told them they could have their second sewing lesson. Today they whipped up a skirt for Nyah. I think they did a great job!

No pictures yet, only BIG HUGS!

2008-07-03T18:56:00.000-07:00

I've been putting off posting because my camera is broken. I really love being able to post with pictures but this post is long overdue. THANK YOU so much to all our friends and family who helped us during our move. The visiting teacher and her daughters swooped in like a cleaning swat team and not only cleaned my windows but brought in dinner as well. Other friends visited the next day to help clean. Many great men from our ward helped load up the uhaul. Not an easy job when you have a husband who not only loves solid wood furniture but can build it as well! And then there were all the little errands that friends helped us with. It was hard to move away from a place that our family truly loved but the all the expressions of friendship we received that last week built us up so much it felt like our flight to our next phase in life was a lot lighter.
After leaving we drove a couple hours and stayed at a hotel. The next day we got to our destination and unpacked some of our things into storage. Luckily, Shawn's brother met us the next day and got us all the way unpacked. We finished up some details for the new job and went to our hopefully new ward and then we were on our way to Grandma and Grandpa's house by Monday. They have been spoiling us rotten and we have been letting them! It's like a five star hotel here.
So lately we've been enjoying hanging out in my parents basement, visiting, and playing. Shawn has been doing some construction and doing homework for his class that is coming up. We are planning to be moved into our new place before the end of the month. We talk about our far away friends often and hope you are hanging out at the pool a lot this summer and having fun! We love you all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

get ready, the jensens are spending the summer in Utah

2008-06-04T19:25:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist

2008-06-04T19:06:00.000-07:00

I read these quotes from Gordon B. Hinckley on a blog today. I loved them! My comments in green.

“Under the plan of heaven, the husband and the wife walk side by side as companions, neither one ahead of the other, but a daughter of God and a son of God walking side by side. Let your families be families of love and peace and happiness. Gather your children around you and have your family home evenings, teach your children the ways of the Lord, read to them from the scriptures, and let them come to know the great truths of the eternal gospel as set forth in these words of the Almighty."

Doesn't this make the price of gas seem totally irrelevant to our purpose here on earth?

"Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around shouting that he has been robbed. The fact is that most putts don’t drop, most beef is tough, most children grow up to be just like people, most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration, and most jobs are more often dull than otherwise. Life is just like an old time rail journey ... delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders, and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride."

I'm so glad someone has the guts to have said this. I think it is okay if some days you don't like your job.

". . . I am satisfied . . . that whenever a man has a true witness in his heart of the living reality of the Lord Jesus Christ all else will come together as it should."

Yes!

“May the sunlight of faith ever warm your hearts. May you grow in strength and capacity as the years pass. May your outreach to others be as that of the good Samaritan. May the service which you render be fruitful for good in the lives of others. May prayer be a part of your daily activity. May reading enhance your knowledge and increase your understanding. May you be true and faithful one to another, and may the years bring to you that peace which passeth all understanding, the peace which comes of following the precepts of the Master”

"Let your children be exposed to great minds, great ideas, everlasting truth, and those things which will build and motivate for good."

A little less "cartoon network" wouldn't hurt anybody

"Of all the creations of the Almighty, there is none more beautiful, none more inspiring than a lovely daughter of God who walks in virtue with an understanding of why she should do so, who honors and respects her body as a thing sacred and divine, who cultivates her mind and constantly enlarges the horizon of her understanding, who nurtures her spirit with everlasting truth."

Doesn't it just make you WANT to be modest?

"I testify that our prayers, offered in humility and sincerity, are heard and answered. It is a miraculous thing, but it is real."

I love teaching this lesson to the primary children. The answer can be "yes, no, or not now" but there is always an answer.

“Before I married her, she was the girl of my dreams,” he said. “She was my dear companion for more than two thirds of a century, my equal before the Lord – really my superior. Now in my old age, she has again become the girl of my dreams.” President Hinckley said he has seen too many marriages end in tragedy because of arrogance and degradation. In his estimation, if men and women were to do whatever it took to ensure the comfort and happiness of his or her counterpart, there would be little or no divorce. “Arguments would never be heard, accusations would never be leveled, angry explosions would not occur,” he said. “Rather love and concern would replace abuse and meanness.” In President Hinckley’s 67 years of marriage, he could not remember one serious quarrel or argument with his wife. The prophet pleaded with the men of the church “to look for and nurture the divinity that lies within their companions.” He said that harmony, peace and enrichment of family life are results of such treatment. “The cure for most marriage troubles does not lie in divorce; it lies in repentance and forgiveness, and expressions of kindness and concern,” he said. “We can live together in the God-given pattern of marriage and accomplish that which we are capable, if we will exercise discipline of self and refrain from trying to discipline our companion.” President Hinckley said women are endowed with certain divine qualities and that men should give them the opportunity to express their qualities and talents. According to President Hinckley, Sister Marjorie Hinckley summed up her gratitude for her husband’s encouragement in one statement. 'You’ve always given me wings to fly, and I’ve loved you for it,' she said"

I haven't heard that part about "if we will exercise discipline of self and refrain from trying to discipline our companion." I wish I would of heard that in my twenties. Oh well, I still have plenty to work on :)

I'm number one

2008-05-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

In all the commotion I overlooked Teagues birthday. It was really fun. Since he is the youngest in the family he already has a built in party with all the attention from siblings. So here's the run down. I told him all week when he turned one he would get to throw away his bottles and start walking. He didn't start walking but of course he now has the option to since he is a "big boy" now. However, he did stand up and pull the cord to my scentsy and manage to break the thing over his head. I heard a big crash and ran to my room to see Teague standing up looking a little wonky. Poor baby, there were little birdies flying around his head and pieces of the warmer all over the floor. After his eyes stopped spinning we moved on to the main event which was cake and ice cream and toys! Nyah beat us all to the cake though. What a rascalie rabbit she is! Then we all played cars with Teague's birthday present from Grandma B.

Finding friends

2008-05-28T13:48:00.000-07:00

We are enjoying our last days in Hermiston. We've been packing, cleaning and playing. I've been napping but not as much as I did in my first trimester. Our house looks like it has an eating disorder. Its all skin and bones without its decorations. The biggies are wondering about leaving friends and having to make new ones. Navie said all she saw in Rexburg was a bunch of teenagers hanging out everywhere. Um.. she's right but I told her we'd dig around town looking for some kids. There's got to be some hiding somewhere. Furthermore, it took us a little while to find friends here. When we left Utah I tried to get the crowd going (Zeke) with promises of living in a house with a yard on a street with lots of kids to play with. We currently lived in an apartment in a complex of college kids with a parking lot for a yard. Oops. I overstated on the whole "street with lots of kids to play with." But Zeke didn't give up. He made a sign that said "come play at my house" and held it out in front of our mailbox. When that didn't work we went for walks listening for kids playing. I naively thought that kids played outside alot. Not as much as I did when I was a kid. But, in the end we finally made friends through our church for both Zeke and Navie. And the rest is history!

P.S. My older sister is almost ready to have her baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wish I was there.

A Mother's Day Quiz for Kids - By Zeke

2008-05-19T17:32:00.000-07:00

For mom's day Zeke filled in this quiz for me. It was so cute and funny to me. My commentary is after the questions.
Her favorite color is pink
Sure! I like a lot of colors but not so much purple
Her favorite tv show is Wheel of Fortune
That is about the only show we ever watch and I do like it especially when I guess the puzzle
She likes movies about a. romance b. horror c. comedy
I love funny movies and romances but romances these days are to crude.
My mother's favorite outfit to wear is a t-shirt and jeans or sweats
Straight up!
The outfit I like her to wear is a t-shirt and jeans
Good boy.
An expression my mom always uses is "close but no cigar"
Its true but now I think I'll try to think of something else to say
My mother gets angry when Nyah disobeys
Toddlers! The kids get really sensitive whenever I have to be stern with her.
My mothers favorite sport is "clean the house ball"
I usually win
My mothers favorite foods are chocolate
Actually my fav is a sub sandwich and then some chocolate
I like my mom to cook toast and homemade jam
Yeah! Someone appreciates homemade jam
My moms favorite restaurant is Olive Garden and Applebees
I'd never say Olive Garden. I did like it one time when my friend Katie took me there but my favorite restaurant is anywhere with Shawn on date night.
Her favorite vacation is when we go camping
Make that "Camping" at a condo that my sister and brother in law kindly let us borrow.
My mom has a funny habit of saying AHH HAH!
Very good Zeke. I love yelling at random times. Keeps the kids on their toes.
My mom looked really beautiful on the day she was sealed (nice dress!)
How sweet Zeker. The day I was sealed is when Shawn and I were married for time and eternity.
My mom really looked funny on the day that she ummm....
Smart.
My mom doesn't know about the time I got some starburst from the cupboard (you really should hide them some where else)
Please, I knew the minute I heard sneaky feet in the kitchen.
My moms best friend is Laura.
Of course.
My moms pet name for me is rascalie rabbit
I love how he spelled rascalie.
Yes- I like this pet name

This was a great treat for me to hear his thoughts out loud. I love you Zeke!

Never say never.

2008-05-09T17:25:00.001-07:00

Ever since I started dating Shawn I started hearing about his little grammies cinnamon rolls. He wasn't joking around either- one taste and you'll know what I'm talking about. Those little jensen grammies have a gift. Naively I thought that if I just had the recipe I could reproduce these little sweet girls. So wrong. For starters grammies gift is so amazing she just adds "a little flour, some sugar, blah, blah, blah." You get the picture. So for twelve years (it has been twelve right?) I've been trying recipe after recipe. I did give up for almost a year. Started buying Rhodes Rolls. They are okay. Then tonight it happened. The magic. I used the leftover pizza dough from dinner tonight to whip these up. I DID IT! Of course, I haven't figured out her frosting recipe yet. And to be fair I should have a blindfolded taste test with some the original Jensens but I'm feeling like the sky is the limit. Shawn's always telling me to write a book. Might as well. I've always wanted to start a business. Why not? So the moral of my story is dreams do come true. Even if it takes 12 years.

What are friends for?

2008-05-08T08:17:00.000-07:00

I promised a bestest friend ever I would update the blog. Here's an action shot of Teague trying to brave the tire swing. Hope the new house has a tree! Navie dressed her and Nyah up for "ballet class."

there is a lot of laughing going on

2008-04-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

During a telephone call my mom mentioned that Zeke and Navie have always been good friends while growing up. My comment was that I should start convincing Nyah to play with Teague. The next day I noticed a lot of laughing going on in Nyah's bedroom. It looks like I get to cross "your siblings are your best friends" off my long list of things to convince my children of. It is total joy to hear the kids playing with each other. I noticed when Nyah came home from preschool Teague seemed a whole lot happier. Things are going good right now. Shawn finished the roof and we are still trying to keep the house clean. Sadly, as I type this a girl from church is walking past our house with whom I suppose to be her boyfriend. I don't recognize him. The last time they walked by during school hours he was yelling at her because she didn't do something how he thought she should of. I don't know her, only seen her casually at our church and other youth activities. I'd like to tell her so many things. For starters to walk away and never look back. I hope our paths cross soon. I'm feeling brave. Hopefully, one day she will too.

Toy Hazard

2008-04-06T19:42:00.001-07:00

I guess lead in children's toys isn't the only thing you need to watch out for these days. I'm usually pretty calm in a crisis but I was practically crying and screaming "help my baby" until Shawn could rescue her.

Official reply to "Soon to be former Hometeacher"

2008-04-02T19:49:00.001-07:00

Dear soon to be former hometeacher,

We will be cold, very cold. I just wanted to remind you that you are "Hometeacher Hall of Famer 2007" and no one can ever take that away from you. Ever. Not in Hermiston, Idaho or Utah.

P.S. 2008 is looking in your favor too. But you didn't hear it from me.

"The bad news is Dad is going to have to quit his job, the good news is that we switched our car insurance to Geico"-Zeke

2008-03-30T16:02:00.000-07:00

Some people are sad when their babies grow up and go on to new stages. I guess since I still have little ones and big ones at home I feel like I have the best of both worlds. Navie is making fudge for dessert tonight. What's not to love about that? Zeke can mow the lawn and takes out the trash. Zeke and Navie both help out with the little ones. Today Nyah was trying to sweep my kitchen floor. I feel a lot of joy when I see the kids learn how to do things for themselves. Besides the sense of satisfaction I see in them it also makes me happy to see our little family working together as a team.
Speaking of working together, there is going to be alot of that going on in the next month trying to get the house ready to sell. Shawn knocked out the shed roof this Saturday. So now it's on to #2 on our very big list. I imagine a nice family buying the house and that makes it seem fun to fix things up for them.
And speaking of a nice family, I'd like to thank all our nice families and friends that said a lot of prayers for us to get the job. It was so awesome calling everyone to tell them the good news. Shawn and I keep re-living everyone's excitement. You have made us feel so loved!
P.S. For the record, I cleaned up the table and rest of the kitchen, just so you don't think I'm a bad mommy on the computer while everyone else is washing dishes.

Happy Easter

2008-03-23T15:44:00.000-07:00

First off, we'd like to congratulate Michelangelo on his yellow belt. Great job! Mom and Dad came to visit. It's been wonderful. We've colored eggs, hung out and watched movies. Dad planted our garden for us. Yeah! I talked Mom into blogging for me- "for the sake of your posterity." So here it goes.
This is Mom Bateman typing--Hilary has asked me to type in my favorite funny Easter story. When Dad and I were in England, we were part of an Easter egg hunt held at our little ward there. Eggs were hidden out in the parking lot--both plastic and hard boiled ones. So that was about April and then we left for the States (Nebraska) in October. We shipped our little Fiat back from England, and that next Spring we were washing the car, and between the front bumper and the car, we found a totally in tack hard boiled Easter egg from the egg hunt in England. We didn't break it open, just carried it very carefully to the garbage. We were in total awe that the egg had not only survived the trip across the ocean, but driving all over Nebraska for several months. My most memorable Easter Egg hunt was with the children in Nebraska. It was a very cold wet Saturday, but the 5 kids talked me into going to the community egg hunt. There were very few of us there, and my 5 kids made a huge haul. The eggs were filled with candy and money, and between them all they made $15.00 which we used to buy a yummy pizza for dinner that night. I also recall that Camron was always the last one to find his Easter basket---like hours, and hours later than the other kids. I love Easter--the bunnies and chicks, and all the new Spring growth, reminds me that life is renewed, and like the resurrection there is hope for life again.

Ouch

2008-03-12T13:47:00.000-07:00

Zeke got tested for his food allergies. The good news is he isn't allergic to beef. The sad news is he is allergic to everything else they tested which is: wheat, milk, eggs, soy, corn, potato, tomato, garlic, and onion. I probably forgot something but really, what is even left? Poor little itchy guy. No wonder why he scratches and sneezes so much. So, I not exactly sure what we are going to do next.

While in Pendleton for Zeke's appointment we got Nyah's hearing tested. The results were as I expected. She is hearing fine. In a year we can retest her pitch hearing. I've never thought that was the reason for her speech delay but it needed to be done to rule it out. It is a complete joy to be Nyah's mother and for her to be my daughter. So I'm also giving her an A+ and a smiley face.

Today I had lunch at school with Navie and Zeke. It is so weird to see so many little kids at once. I'm used to my little crew so it was fun to see how different all their friends are. Zeke's recess was over when I was out with Navie so I didn't see him playing but Navie is quite the little monkey on the bars. I say play on! I love how every little thing they do is such a triumph for them.

Things we are learning

2008-03-07T07:32:00.000-08:00

Last month as I was reading the ensign one thought really stood out to me. It was in the first presidency message, Feeding His Lambs under the section two keys to receiving help. If I want to be guided in the words I speak to feed others (which I do ) then this will happen by the prayer of faith and by daily study of the scriptures. I've always tried to have a prayer of faith, often pleading for help to know what to say but I didn't realize the direct correlation between daily study. It is right in the scriptures including D&C 11:21. So that has stood out as the most meaningful insight for me last month. Then a counselor in our R.S. shared this exact same message in our newsletter. OKAY! I get it. Heavenly Father didn't want me to just be inspired but also wanted some action. So, after trying to find time during the day without any consistency I'll be getting up early with Shawn.
As I was studying today I was excited to read about this. Two things stood out to me. Revelation often is an answer to prayer. I always marvel how many things Heavenly Father would love to enlighten us on if we just thought to ask. (And listen). The second is how Joseph Smith received a confirmation that it was right to publish what is now called the D&C and then a mob started a fire and burned most of the paper. Heavenly Father won't take away others free agency. It took another couple of years before the revelations were published as the D&C. Faith is being able to continue when things don't go as we plan.
Relating this to my own life, one Sunday during seperate classes Shawn and I both felt inspired to have another baby (Nyah). I didn't get pregnant for another 2 years. Even if I had never had another baby I know we were inspired to try. Their were times when it seemed puzzling to not be pregnant when we were both willing to do what Heavenly Father had required of us. Now, looking back, I realize sometimes what we assume will happen isn't always what will. Yet, in our faith we can learn through the whole process.
I got more info about the class Shawn will teach. The section is "Calculating the moment of inertia for complex shapes." He's going to do a great job. It will be a lot of work to get everything together and try to integrate various teaching methods on the topic. Thank you everyone who has said prayers on his and our behalf. Have a great weekend!

I missed you too.

2008-03-05T07:29:00.001-08:00

Hello! In case you missed me, don't worry, I missed you too. But, check out all the fun tricks we've been up to. Navie had some electrifying fun with a balloon on FHE. Teague had a little trick of his own to show off but my old camera's shutter delay couldn't quite catch him holding both feet with his bottle in his mouth at the same time. It does nicely show off his new bottom teeth. One on top will be premiering soon.
Zeke got new "allergen" reducing stuff for his bed. And a mandate (i mean suggestion) from me that his bedding must be washed every Saturday. We go in for food allergy testing next Tuesday so I am dutifully recording everything he eats. His handwriting is still a little on the sketchy side. We still have a hepa filter and immunio therapy to go as far as his inhalant allergies are concerned.
Shawn got the subject for the class he will be teaching. I didn't really understand what he was saying so I'll have him explain it a little slower tomarrow after school. Something about structural systems.
Shawn and I have started walking after he gets home. It's so fun. I'm a big fan of the "walk & talk" combo so I'm totally in heaven to be able to be doing both at once with my best friend.
And for the family wrap up finale- I'll give you the bad news first. Nyah tried to cut an orange with a BIG knife with the back of the knife. Yes, the back as in not the blade. As in, pushing her hand on the blade. The good news is that she still has all 5 fingers. Actually she is doing well and we took off the band-aid today.

p.s. sorry about the skewampus picture of Navie.

A great weekend

2008-02-23T08:46:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we went to Portland to visit Danny and Melanie, & kids. I was really excited to see them. Little did I know that it would be a perfect weekend! Sometimes you just can't plan something better than it happens to turn out. That doesn't make sense. What I'm trying to say is that this little getaway was just what we needed at just the right time. Big XOXO to Danny and Melanie hospitality toward our family of 6 bombarding their town home. It just happened to be sunny so we couldn't think of one reason not to drive over to the coast. So course we did!

Happy Heart Day

2008-02-14T13:51:00.000-08:00

We're getting in the heart day mood around here. Grandma Bateman sent up some valentines that we decorated our front door with. Thanks for the candy and toys! The ups man drops off packages around 5 at our house which is fun because we are all home. The kids run for a knife to cut the tape before I can even get to the door. We had an awesome sunset on Monday. We sat outside and then moved over to jump on the tramp.

Thanks

2008-02-08T10:32:00.001-08:00

Laura sent us a package yesterday. Hooray! Kids got some fun stuff to play with. We have been making apples slurpees ever since. I got a Scentsy warmer and it smells soooooo good. I love it. Nyah has been roller skating this morning. She keeps saying, "Teague follow me." So she is rolling around the house and Teague is crawling after her. So cute.

Truth in the message

2008-02-05T14:18:00.000-08:00

So, in the ninth month of pregnancy with Teague I made the lofty goal of reading the Book of Mormon start to finish by the end of the summer. So in last summer I did really good- reading while feeding the baby, reading at the pool, ect. Alas, I didn't finish. So I re-evaluted my goal and decided it would be okay to finish by Christmas. I was so close... so close but didn't finish. So since I was so close I wasn't really worried about finishing in a hurry. Until "The Hometeachers" came over. We discussed Elder L. Tom Perry's talk Raising the Bar. And then the "Hometeacher" asked me to raise the bar in my own life in a specific area. I decided to really finish my goal. Not put it off but finish the Book of Mormon in my personal scripture reading. So on Sunday I finished. I'm really happy I made it a goal. But the thing that I think is really cool is that the "Hometeacher" who gave the lesson is the younger son. Here is a maybe 13? year old young man who commited me to make a positive change for good. It really doesn't matter who delivers truth. It is fun to hear really good public speakers, someone dynamic and charming, but truth is truth and I felt the spirit as this young man taught our family and that is better than hearing a good public speaker any day.

Saturday Afternoon

2008-02-04T10:51:00.000-08:00

Nyah beans was pretty tired Saturday afternoon. Unlike "The Gigglers" who had plenty of energy.

one plus one equals...

2008-01-31T13:48:00.000-08:00

This is the clever card Shawn made me for our 12th Anniversary. I'm such a lucky girl. Today I picked Nyah up from school to go to her doctor appointment. She attends a preschool to help her with speech. Her teacher said that she is actually signed up for three days not just the two I had orginally planned on. I don't know how I feel about this. I'm glad for her to be able to have such wonderful teachers and the help but I am a little sad to have her away from home another morning as well. It is so fun to have her say new words that she is learning and watch her little mind work as she tries to think how to put words together.
I've been avoiding the blog for a couple days because I was thinking how I wanted to honor the passing of President Gordon B. Hinckley. I've read some very nice tributes that have been written and was reviewing my own feelings. When it comes down to it, I just want to bear testimony that he was a prophet of God. All week I've been thinking about it and I feel very close to the spirit as I'm going to continue to think about him and what it means to have a prophet.

I can sit up and crawl.

2008-01-22T12:28:00.001-08:00

I love it.

2008-01-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

Shawn finished up the last detail on the bathroom yesterday morning so I'm sharing pictures. I love it all. Shawn did a great job! I'm glad he doesn't charge me. On another note, I guess I bragged about our 50 degree winter one to many times. After getting off the phone with my mother while we were playing outside on Saturday, the clouds rolled in and on Sunday it snowed. I'm trying to will it back warm again as I type.

2nd try

2008-01-16T11:36:00.000-08:00

well, since I didn't get a comment on my last post I'm going to try a little harder to be funny. The story goes like this- I had just finished changing Teague. On my way to the garbage I pass Zeke in the hall at which point he yells out to the rest of the house, "Help, Mom's got me at diaper point!"

Silly Things Said

2008-01-10T12:44:00.000-08:00

On New Years day I was watching a parade with Navie and it reminded me of when I would watch the parades with my mom. So, I also thought I would tell her about how at some parades they make all the floats completely out of flowers. I thought it might impress her. So I give her my best "can you believe" tone of voice thinking she'll marvel over the floats with me. Her reply of course was utter disgust, and she says "ugh! they're just wasting up this whole place." Meaning mother earth of course. Oh well, I did always want a girl who would voice her own opinion.
And another funny thing said was at our last FHE. Zeke makes his "most influential people" out loud to us as a family. 1st-Heavenly Father 2nd-Jesus Christ 3rd-Joseph Smith 4th-Babe Ruth. BABE RUTH? Really? Not to put the guy down. But I just wasn't aware that he was so important to Zeke. Hmm. I mean what are we his parents-chopped liver?

My little funny bunnies

2008-01-06T20:42:00.001-08:00

I like how this picture turned out. The kids school was taking a free holiday photo so I carefully choose outfits, arranged to have Zeke leave scouts early enough to be on time, and packed a brush to touch up the kids hair. Well, things don't always run smoothly with four kids. It was one thing after another and we ended up being able to take the photo but these are not the carefully chosen outfits or neatly brushed hair I planned on. Regardless, I love this photo! I'm so grateful to have it.

Last Day of the Month

2007-12-31T19:50:00.000-08:00

So, our hometeacher would like it to be known by us, our ward, and the world wide web that we have been visited this month. Thanks! See you guys next month.

Last Day of the Year

2007-12-31T19:22:00.000-08:00

Today came in like a lion and is going out like a lamb. Last night Danny and Melanie stopped in from their trip home from Utah. It was great to hear about all the Jensen happenings. They also dropped off many gifts so it was like Christmas Part II. Thanks for all the fun presents everyone! This morning we had pancakes before they headed home around 11:30. Shawn jumped right back into our bathroom project. He grouted tile on the floor and filled in all the shower drywall and wall patches. The toilet is back and now he (Shawn, not the toilet) is finishing setting the shower tile. It's weird to see something different when my brain keeps assuming it will look like it has always looked when I look in the bathroom door. Zeke can't wait to ring in the new year. I guess we will try to stay up. We might need another three hour monopoly game. I don't think I mentioned that our last game a couple days ago I bankrupted the whole family. It was fun. Ha-Ha. Nyah was really happy last night to show me how she cut off her pony tails. They were only the half kind so now she sorta has a mullet. Well, she really has a mullet. Good thing she's so naturally cute! While I was straightening out the mullet- we wouldn't want it crooked, I cut Navie the long bangs she has been begging for. She looks FABULOUS.

Day 2

2007-12-29T22:28:00.000-08:00

Here's the reno update. Things are going great. Shawn is working super fast as usual. Two minor glitches were that our old plumbing needed newer pieces to match new fixtures for sink and shower. Hence 2 extra Home Depot trips. Otherwise, I painted about 90% of room and Shawn installed cabinet, faucet, shower lever, cut backer board for shower, layed floor tile and put in a new outlet. It's looking good. I changed my mind on the floor tile. I went a little darker than I originally planned because it looks much better with the cabinet and wall color. It was a team effort today biggie size kids (Zeke and Navie) helping with the baby sizes (Nyah and Teague). Time to clean up for our day of rest. And worship :)

P.S. Something funny did happen. Shawn goes outside to turn the water back on and the shower is on fullstream so I run outside to tell Shawn and he yells, "well, go turn off the shower". So I run back and try to turn this black knobbie thing and he comes running in and pulls it off and flips the lever. So then I had to mop up the the water that sprayed the studs and other side of the bare shower wall.

Bored?

2007-12-28T21:28:00.000-08:00

This afternoon some friends watched our kids while we dropped by Home Depot to pick up a couple shingles for our shed. While shopping we grabbed some tile to update our bathroom floor. Typically, one thing led to another and here we are. So I thought I'd journal our progress on line. Shawn works great under pressure. :) Care to guess when we'll finish? We officially started on friday night at 5. These pictures were taken a couple minutes ago at 9:30.

Christmas Eve Dance Party

2007-12-25T11:25:00.000-08:00

Rocking and rolling around the Christmas tree.

The Jensens

2007-12-25T11:07:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas From Our House To Yours XOXO

Crazy christmas?

2007-12-22T12:47:00.000-08:00

So I've been having a really fun christmas so far. Christmas cards have brought smiles to our home. Little suprises left on our doorstep have brought excitement. Danny and Melanie came for a visit. Danny and Shawn put together a gift exchange game for us. It turned out really fun. It's fun to participate in something that you didn't have to plan. Anytime someone else puts together a little activity it feels like a little gift to me to be able to just sit back and join in the fun.
Today I felt really blessed to have siblings. This season I feel really grateful for all the things each of them have done. Vynessa and Javier are running over to Becky's to pick up packages for me so I could save on shipping. (Along with Danny's help to get it to Utah) Shayne sent a very unexpected package today that him and Kylee put together. Camron and Missy picked out a precious nativity set that will become a tradition. And finally Lindsey talked her neighbor into dropping off a package on her way up to Washington.
All this reminds me of Shayne's family letter. In the end he talked about how they love all the crazy business of Christmas. And then compared it to the wise men's preparation to see Jesus. In the end they love to see the people's faces they love on Christmas and it is all worth the work. Even though I won't see all of you, I'll be picturing your faces. Thanks for making the holiday more fun!

Santa's Workshop

2007-12-13T18:14:00.001-08:00

Happy 1st day of Christmas. I think. Anyway, tonight while Shawn is away (church meeting) the elves will play. We are making fleece blankets. The kids got to pick out their fabric and as of right now, one side is done and they are "taking a break." I figure I'll let them decide where to donate them to. It's a good project for them. I'm anticipating a little complaining toward the end as its more fun to plan a service project then actually finish one. Of course, I already have my "all your hard work and perseverance makes the personal victory that much sweeter," speech ready. If that doesn't work a simple reminder that some people don't have warm homes like ours oughta do the trick. I can't complain though, I have great kids. Here's a couple action shots.

Happy Birthday

2007-12-06T14:47:00.000-08:00

It's my daddy's birthday. I had to leave a message for my mom to pull up my blog so dad could read his birthday card. How funny is it that I've never actually seen my dad touch a computer. I wanted to share my favorite story about my dad. When I was 14 we moved from North Dakota to Utah. I was leaving all my junior high friends. I was heartsick to leave. As we got everyone situated in cars to make the caravan of cars and a moving truck I climbed in the big moving van with Dad. We didn't say anything for awhile. Then he asked if I was sad. I said "yes" -that was all I could get out. Then dad says, why don't you put your head down right here, and patted the seat next to him and then you can cry as much as you want. I did. I sobbed and sobbed and dad just patted my shoulder. It was exactly what I needed. Dad is "less is more." I love you, Hilary

"Why are you tired lately?"

2007-12-01T10:49:00.000-08:00

This was the question Zeke asked me as I got up this morning. I was happy to tell him it is hard to get up every night with his baby brother. Here is the mugshot of the suspect. Oh well, the joys of motherhood. I think a quote from Julie B. Beck is in order:

"Women who desire and work toward that blessing (motherhood) in this life are promised they will receive it for all eternity, and eternity is much, much longer than mortality. There is eternal influence and power in motherhood."

Visiting Teaching

2007-11-28T12:37:00.001-08:00

Well, I started out this morning making a video of our Portland visit from this weekend. It will have to wait. I exceeded my 10 min. blog post time limit. So I'm doing a regular post this afternoon that all started with a prayer. I was thinking about visiting teaching tomorrow and trying to decide which article to use from the Ensign. There's so many goodies to choose from so I said a quick prayer. A little later I glanced at the cover of the Ensign and the inspiration popped into my head. "President Eyring was just sustained, use his talk." I couldn't remember his specific talk so I read it and bunch of thoughts followed.
His talk is about recording or remembering the specific ways God's hand has touched our lives. I then felt like I should share an entry from our families blessing journal with the sisters we visit teach. A different entry really stood out to me to share on the blog. It if from August 18, 2003:
"... The next day at the beach something scary happened. Shawn, Jeremy, Jodi, and Brett were swimming and Shawn and Brett went out up to their chest and a wave came in but they missed the wave. A current was pushing them out to the ocean. They both were scared and screaming for help. Shawn was praying and gave Brett a bump to help him. But then Shawn caught a wave in and yelled for JJ to help Brett. JJ got Brett and calmed him down and got him to safety. Heavenly Father helped them and kept them safe."
This is how I recorded it second hand. JJ and Brett feel free to comment if you'd like to add or change anything. Two things that stuck out to me were that as I read all the entries I felt like every experience recorded has become so precious to have a record of. I can keep learning from them over and over. The other was sentimental about Shawn's siblings. This was only one example of the MANY times they have helped each other out both in physical and emotional ways. Its really touching to me to see the love they have for each other. Wish me luck on my visits! Here's a link to the talk:O remember, remember

Feels Good

2007-11-22T16:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Zeke bought some toothbrushes to donate and today we are taking some hygiene items to donate to the Humanitarian Service. It is an awesome opportunity to be a part of something so great. I'm thankful that our family is a position to help out. I'm also thankful for this inspired program. Did you know that From 1985 to 2006 Humanitarian Services provided more than $900 million in total assistance to needy individuals in 163 countries. Here is the link to learn more http://www.providentliving.org/content/display/0,11666,4600-1-2323-1,00.html
Every dollar goes is used to serve people. None of it is used in administrative costs! Is that amazing or what!

tHANKFUL

2007-11-18T13:02:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for prayers. Specifically prayers said on anothers behalf. I had my gallbladder removed on Monday and I could feel the prayers being said by friends and family. Thank you for your prayers and service shown to our family. In my opinion, it is one of the sweetest gifts given from one person to another- the act of invoking the powers from heaven for another persons behalf.
On a drive home from a visit from Utah I was driving in the middle of a huge storm. It appeared to me that a path had opened up out the the fog and grey clouds just big enough for our car to drive down the highway. At that point I wondered if my Mom had prayed for us, knowing of the poor weather conditions. When we got home safely I called to check in with my mom and she told me she had prayed us the whole way home. The spirit testified to me that the feeling I had while driving and seeing the storm rage on both sides of the highway was an answer to prayer. Since that day I started trying to be aware of when prayers are being said for our family so I could say a prayer of thanksgiving in return. I feel like if you pay attention you can feel those blessings enter your life.

This is a picture of a gift Shawn received today. It makes me excited for our upcoming holiday. The note reads

Blessings
During this Thanksgiving season, we often reflect of the blessings in our lives. As you enjoy this holiday treat, reflect on the blessings in your lives as we reflect on how you are a blessing in ours.
Bugles- This represents the shape of the cornucopia or horn of plenty. Count your blessings
Pretzels-These symbolize arms folded in thanks and prayer for those things in our lives
Candy Corn-During the first winter, Pilgrims were each allotted only five kernels of corn per day because food was so scarce.
Dried Cranberries- These signify the celebration and gift of the harvest
Seeds-These correspond to the potential for a bounteous crop for the next season.

Cute idea! Thanks, Crowther Family!

Thankful!

2007-11-16T13:23:00.000-08:00

This afternoon I called my mom to "talk." I'm so grateful to have a mom who is there when I need someone to talk to. Just for funs I pulled out this picture from a memory book I have of her and I. I used to look at the necklace she was wearing in the picture so many times as a little girl so it is fun to realize I have it in a photo. She gave me that dress out of her cedar chest this summer. I thought it was cute but today is the first time I've put together a picture of me in that dress, with the actual dress. Aww. Now, it is really cute! I think I'd like to do some "thankful" posts leading up to Thanksgiving. I hope they are fun to read!

Family Motto

2007-11-12T23:45:00.000-08:00

I was a little restless tonight so I picked up the new issue of the New Era. I love it! Our family motto is "Clean hands, pure heart," so when I turned to the line upon line section with Psalm 24:3-4 I was totally excited. I've never seen this feature of the magazine. How cool is it? I learned that a pure heart not only means to have virtuous thoughts but also righteous intentions. Also that clean hands means living righteously and repenting when we have sinned. It adds another dimension to this scripture that I love. Here's a family picture from this summer.

Trunk or Treat

2007-10-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

Happy 33!

2007-10-28T20:07:00.000-07:00

Today is Shawn's birthday. Danny and Melanie visited us for the weekend. It was a lot of fun. Their kids are so cute and funny. Thirty three things I love about Shawn. In no particular order :)
1. Never gives up
2. Wakes up early to read scriptures
3. Tucks the kids in bed everynight
4. Wakes up kids every morning
5. Great listener
6. Always improving himself in some way
7. Awesome smile
8. Prays with me
9. Prays with the kids
10. Accepts people for who they are
11. Smells yummy
12. Cute in a singlet
13. Like to serve people
14. Builds pretty furniture
15. Likes looking at family photo albums
16. Believes in Christ
17. Wants to serve a couple mission
18. Slow to anger
19. Doesn't yell
20. Loves BYU football and gets nervous for the team
21. Gave up monday night football for family night
22. Presides in our home
23.Honors his priesthood
24. Love his inlaws, never complains
25. Look on the bright side of life
26. Gets things done quickly around the house
27. When faced with a trial, tries to learn from it
28. Doesn't hide from the hard things in life
29. Would rather be at the beach than disneyland
30. Tries to be a good husband
31. Finishes everything on a list
32. Has never said anything negative about my cooking
33. He makes people feel good when they are with them.

Love that pose!

2007-10-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

Scrapbook Night

2007-10-17T10:07:00.000-07:00

Once a month is scrapbook night. A great sister in our ward puts together kits for two 12x12 pages. She only charges $1.00 for supplies. I'm in heaven. Last night was really fun. It's a lot of funny conversation and teasing. I have some really cute pictures from this summer I just can't wait to get developed. I want to get an album together for our family to open on Christmas Eve. So, I'm off to upload some pictures.

Happy Halloween

2007-10-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

Well, last night for our Family Home Evening activity Navie chose to make snowflakes and pumpkins. Humm, can you guess which one I made and which is Shawn's? Yes, men are from mars and women from venus. Of course there are glitches in communication between a man and a women. Hello! How could it be any other way? Just look at my little sweetie of a pumpkin versus macho man. When Shawn read my last blog entry I asked if he thought I was funny and he said we had very different experiences in kindergarten. Apparently, his wasn't so fun. Hence, the "sluffing school hiding under his bed" incident. Well, enough about Shawn, especially since he isn't here to defend himself.
Navie and Zeke tried out for Missoula children's theatre. Navie was cast as a skunk in the upcoming production of Robin Hood. She isn't very stinky to me. Zeke was "bored," in his words. Nonetheless, we are really excited to see the play.

I "HOPE" to do more crafts.

2007-10-10T13:05:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of our enrichment night craft. YEAH! I love a good craft. This was like as simple as they get but was extra fun for the craft deprived. I know that "some people" don't like a craft. "Some people" say crafts are not cool enough for their super cool houses. "Some people" say they can't do crafts. Humph!, bring on the crafts I say. There is something really cool about being creative. It brings back that happy feeling from kindergarten. You know, that feeling of coloring your paper with a million pretty colors and then cutting out the perfect shaped heart. I'm smiling just thinking about it. Of course, I am choosing to block out the memory of getting stuck with the bad scissors that wouldn't cut right.