Tanner Family

Refiner's Fire

2009-11-10T08:30:00.008-07:00

One talk I've always loved was Dallin H. Oaks, 'Good Better Best.' http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=12d72bce258f5110VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD

This taught of learning to forgo good things to take part of better or best things and how that will strengthen our families. I have learned recently that not only is it just 'things' of materialism, but that we ourselves must go from good to becoming better until we get to our best. This process can be painful. Anything that changes us will leaves it's mark...good or bad. Seeing the scars, remembering the pain gives us experiences to learn and grow from.

A few weeks ago, I was given a task. One that seemed daunting, exciting, impossible, refreshing. I asked Jason for a blessing so I could focus my thoughts and emotions. Instead of a comfort I received what felt like a 'hold on and brace yourself.' I was told I was going to go through a refiner's fire. Nothing could've been more true.

I've had hard times in the past. Times where I knew I was being tested. This time was different. It was days upon days filled with turmoil, continual emotional pounding, and thoughts bad enough they could tear down buildings.

I felt I had been dragged back into a dark alley for a fight. At first, it was easy to hold my ground. But after receiving kick after kick my strength wasn't sufficient. And even though I was down, the kicks continued followed by words of 'stay down', 'you can't win', and the worst one to me: 'give up.' I looked around for anyone to tell me otherwise, but my support were in their own separate alley's tackling their own fight. I wrestled with it for days. If I was doing what I was supposed to do, why was it causing so much unhappiness? Why was it consuming every aspect of my life? Why did I feel so alone and deserted? Surely, I must be doing something wrong and I wasn't the right person for the task. With each of these questions and thoughts, I weakened myself until I was left cold, beaten, crumpled in a ball on concrete ground........and that's when miracles happened. I had taken a beating, but God wasn't going to allow me to break.

Lying there, I hear a familiar voice and one I'd hadn't heard in a long time. And as if an angel appeared, an outreached hand from an old friend came and picked me up. I haven't talked to her in months. She had no idea I needed her. She just came by to tell me of a good memory she had of her and I together visiting Winter Quarters and our experiences there. She said everything I needed her to say without knowing it. And just as quickly as she came, she was gone...but this time, I was standing again.

I was reminded of truth and reminded of lies and the lives they destroy. Lies do not come from our Heavenly Father. I chose to listen to one that I despise. God chose to let me go through this experience for a stonger testimony of truth and become stalwart in my mission. His mission. No lie could dissuade me again.

So with this resolve, I go searching for my fellow comrades who are fighting and losing their own battle in their alley. We band together, united, each with similar experiences, and fight like lions. Never wanting to go through the experience again, but grateful for it, and forever changed, forever refined. Good women who became better.

I've learned we can never underestimate the love our Heavenly Father has for us. We may go through difficult times, but we are never alone and will be sent assistance when needed.

And I've learned we can never underestimate the assistance we may provide to someone in their time of need. I know my friend probably thinks she wasn't prompted. She just had a thought come to her mind and wanted to share. But I shudder to think if she wouldn't have been there. I know more dark alley's will be in my future, but after each fight, I learn and am stronger for the next. I will do better next round and never give up.

Batten Down the Hatches Scallywags!!!

2009-10-25T23:33:00.027-07:00

Avast ye... weigh anchor and hoist the mizzen! Another year of murder mystery has taken place. Definitely, one of the best themed party we've ever had with a great dynamic group who took their roles VERY seriously. The formula of blackmail, bribery, and deceit made for an interesting night at the Salty Sea Dog.

Attendees: Pritchard's, Fechter's (Fetcherman's), Smith's, Kellis', Alger's, Lopez's, Mitchell's, Jordan's, Phipp's, and Tanner's.

At dinner, everyone took an opportunity to introduce their characters...some decided to already be in character.

The Governor and Capt'n

The victim and kiss from a grieving boyfriend stealing town hussy.

The 'ladies man' of the night. Too bad he ended up broke.

THE CAST:

MAD ROSE (A.K.A. Serving Wench) For some reason, no one called me Rose...I went by 'Wench' or 'Tart'....which I'm still trying to figure out if that was scripted. ???

Unfortunately, my other half was never around me the whole night to get a picture with.

Governor Napier and Juliana Napier

Poor Terry, I pulled a Dumb and Dumber move on him..and it worked!!! His wife asked me to get something from him. I went and told him she asked for him to give me money. When he looked at her I said loudly, 'You told him to give it to me right?' She nodded and it went flawlessly. Kuddos to Chrissy for fitting in her high school prom dress. Wear it proud while I fit one leg into mine.

Thumbless Jack and Antonia Napier

Melissa played the sweet, good girl all night which was a huge stretch for her. Jason gets props for actually eating without his thumbs and controlling his cussing for the evening.

Captain Redbeard and Breathless Betty

I wish Dennis would have been a little meaner and taken my bribe to tackle the Commodore. Kelley played a flirtatious seductive woman...something I know she's been practicing for decades.

Their outfits were AMAZING and runner up on best costume and best performer. Fortunately, she didn't go away empty handed. She was the hornswaggler of the night and was the richest player. She took home a million dollars in shredded currency courtesy of the Federal Reserve Bank. (We Tanner's know how to reward)

Merciless Morgan and Sharktooth Brandy

Wow, my new word for Joey is silk. I just wanted to touch his sleeves and watch him shimmer in the light. And Megan needs to be proud for the fact that one day when a few teeth go missing, she doesn't really look that bad. I just wish the wax would've stayed on all night. I also enjoyed how she couldn't call me names without smiling. She made it pleasant to be insulted.

Buccaneer Bradshaw and Dirty Wiggins

D.J. had a strategy for the night....but I'm still trying to figure out what it was. All I know is he was way comfortable cracking those IBC's. Coreen was our head investigator and she must have been doing her job right since she was only one of two who correctly identified the murderer.

Sealegs Sam and Jean Golddust

Richard is manifesting a pattern. He was again the murderer. Steph had the hard job of trading gold for money. Problem was...the gold coins that weren't supposed to be there that somehow got there and people tried trading with her for money. Steph made the best pirate disastrous cake ever! I wish I had a picture of it.

Commodore Clearing and Blackspot Jane

If there was an award for the best brown noser for the night, Quinn would've taken it hands down. His quest for special interests seemed all too natural. Suzanne somehow gained a british accent throughout the night along with the best costume award.

Shoutin' Roger Dagger and Gurglin' Uma Scar

Wes was my father. I now know what his children will go through and I have empathy for them. I was very impressed with Kathryn and her skills. She managed to bring fake coins and convince people they were worth 100 dollars...and she stole the evidence and charged in order for people to view it. Genius.

Cutthroat McPhearson and One-Eyed Wanda

Chris...there are no words. He definitely earned his Drama Queen award for the night. Whenever he was around I could not stay in character...I couldn't stop cracking up. Kristine was the only other person who guessed the murderer. By now I hope her depth perception is back.

Thanks to all who helped and attended in making our night fun!

Smith Halloween Party '09

2009-10-23T23:34:00.026-07:00

A big thanks to Kelley and her family for always throwing a great party and all the work that goes into it. Last year Jason and I took away best costume. So, this year we knew we had to up our game. When we arrived, I was worried because the costumes were so creative and amazing this year. I regret I wasn't as good as I could've been with the camera. So many got left out. Our goal going into this was to think creepy and scary for Halloween. It doesn't get much creepier than this:

The Fechter's were more than willing to humiliate themselves with us and we wouldn't have won scariest costume without them. From day one of trying on these fabulous and warm snuggies...we knew we had struck gold. We had so much fun and I appreciate everyone being good sports about it (especially Tinky Winky). Now we keep thinking of all the possibilities that come from owning these fine pieces of cloth.....we are for hire for birthday parties.

The grieving black widow. I have to say, Lindsey had one of my favorite costumes. I loved the attention to detail that made it perfect from the life insurance policy to the hand sewn hankerchief of initials.

Marc Anthony and Cleopatra

Really Mean Hockey Players

Which one is the doctor? Which one is the nurse?

I couldn't resist posting this one. The impecable timing of having Tinky Winky in the backround and creating mouse like ears for the gnome.

Gnomes (Which I reminded to stay off my property)

Arrrgghh

So easy a caveman can do it.

Alfred Hitchcock's: "The Birds"

Dog the Bounty Hunter

Wednesday

The guy (Will Farrell) from Zoolander...I can't remember his name, but he played it perfectly.

Just wrong.

More Black Widows

Winners of best couple: Mimes

Marie Antoniette

Mario and Luigi

One of the four polygomist wives and black leather lady (or whatever Celina was...could've passed as cat woman in those pants).

Head Roller Derby Chic and Host: Slamma Fabulous

Kelley's new addition this year: Psycho Bathroom

Tubby Bye-Bye

Bye

Bye-Bye

U2 360 '09

2009-10-21T08:45:00.017-07:00

One of my favorite top two concerts...ever. U2 is better live than on their CD's..if you can even imagine. The University of Phoenix Cardinal Stadium was sold out...over 90,000 people. I've never heard anything quite like when Bono turned off his microphone and had close to 90,000 people singing his song...amazing. Their stage was incredible...again, nothing I've ever seen, and I've been to a lot of concerts. If I have to say anything negative, it would've been their closing song...'Moment of Surrender'? Really? He even said at the end of the concert..'Remember us.' No one could forget U2, but honestly, then don't put us to sleep at the last song. Just a little disappointing. I loved hearing 'One.' I think this song really represents the group. Since the beginning, U2 has been a rock band with an eye on what's going on in the world, and consistently, it's songs have been about things like freedom, peace, unity, love. Plus consider all Bono's extracurriculars. I think One best encapsules that whole spirit of the band. And it's musically and lyrically a powerful song.
Here is the set list for the evening:
Breathe, Get On Your Boots, Magnificent, Mysterious Ways, Beautiful Day / Blackbird (snippet), I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For / Dirty Old Town (snippet), Stuck In A Moment You Can't Get Out Of, No Line On The Horizon, Elevation, In A Little While, Unknown Caller, Until The End Of The World, The Unforgettable Fire, City Of Blinding Lights / Mofo (snippet), Vertigo, I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight / Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin) (snippet) / Two Tribes (snippet), Sunday Bloody Sunday / Rock The Casbah (snippet), MLK, Walk On / You'll Never Walk Alone (snippet)encores: One / Amazing Grace (snippet), Where The Streets Have No Name / All You Need Is Love (snippet), Ultra Violet (Light My Way), With Or Without You, Moment of Surrender

Thanks to our neighbors for setting us up with sets of free tickets.

This was the other show that was going on in front of us the entire 5 hours of concert.

And THIS is the G version.

Black Eyed Peas opened and they did a great job.

Fergie got to do "Big Girls Don't Cry" which is one of my faves.

Jason was a little nervous over marijuana inhalation, since he had a urine test for life insurance the next morning...luckily, we didn't have to worry. It was the nacho intake that most concerned me.

Gnome Update

2009-10-12T21:38:00.002-07:00

Breaking News:
Gnomes continue to spread grief and mayhem. Some incidents of today's occurances:

Got a speeding ticket from an extremely rude DPS officer. It wasn't by radar...he supposedly 'paced' me. I knew it was a cop next to me....I thought I was in a 45. He informed me I was in a 40 and going 51mph. I know I never got over 50...more like 46/47. I also was having a hard time finding my proof of insurance, so I called Jason to have him bring me a copy. I told the officer my husband was on his way to which the officer was concerned with how long he would have to wait. When Jason got there, he waved him off rudely and said, "I don't want to see it." The more time went on, the more irriatated I became. Not because I got pulled over, but because I knew I wasn't going that speed. I continued to disagree with him and he proceeded to inform me he gets his speedometer calibrated every year. Whatever. I haven't received a ticket since 1994. After he gave me the ticket I thanked him for removing a hardened criminal off the streets. I will be appearing in court. Who wants to protest with me with their 'Save Jen' signs??

Then I called today to find out my surgery time, since I hadn't heard back from the hospital. They said they never had me scheduled. A good remainder of the day was spent on the phone working out details. They finally got me scheduled at 4 p.m. and told me nothing to eat or drink, including water after 10 p.m. the night before. Again, I had to complain. That long, with me being diabetic...you might as well shoot me. Luckily, by 5 p.m. they had it all worked out. Whew. One thing that has been on my mind is the testimony in sacrament where it was said 'the man went in for a simple knee surgery and died later in the hospital'...if I don't get rid of the gnomes by then...it could seal my fate. Again...'Save Jen' signs.

Curse-ed Gnomes

2009-10-11T21:34:00.013-07:00

I've never been a superstitious person, until recently. A couple months ago we decided to play a prank on a particular family with an inside joke dealing with gnomes. I waited all summer for gnomes to go on clearance. We gnomed their yard. That was supposed to be the end of it...but here is a tale of a group of little bearded men, who seek to destroy lives with their plotting destuctive curses and spread of bad luck.
The night we gnomed, this family's kitchen flooded, which resulted in having to rip out their wooded floor. A few other things in their life didn't go as expected. So, I joked about burning the gnomes. Turns out, that same night BYU beat Oklahoma..which resulted in us waking up to celebratory gnomes on our doorstep. So, I took pity on them, and left them there. They looked so harmless.
Soon after,my pains began, which turned out to be kidney stones.
Most of you know of our grand entrance to the ward campout. It was actually the Kellis family (prior gnome owners) who ran over the subterranean beehive...we just happened to roll up after them and hit the hive AGAIN. We had bees swarm our car. Jason was stung a few times and Nathan as well. I will never forget the sight. You know how you watch those movies where something is happening and in your head your saying, "duh, people, react!!!!"...it was that type of moment. We were frozen not really realizing what was happening. Once we knew we had to jump ship...embarassing enough, I couldn't help but think we had to look like the bee scene from 'Tommy Boy'. Except, WITH the bees. This resulted in several others being stung and the Tanner family never being welcomed at a ward party again.
We managed to pull through and had a blast the remainder of the time, but came home to a heart break. One of our family dogs, Skippy, had gotten wrapped up in her leash outside, and couldn't reach water and died. A deep solemn came over the house the remainder of the weekend. It was so hard on the kids and I. Jason felt horrible because he made the decision not to have someone watch them and felt he let everyone down. I felt horrible that he felt so guilty. We had the funeral and buried her out back. It was interesting watching our children deal with it. Brynna was just heartbroken and took a few days to smile again. Nathan started by saying, "This isn't happening, it's just a dream." (Denial) To...."I didn't play with her as much as I play with Cleo or the computer" (Guilt) To...."This should have happened to someone else's dog!!!" (Anger) He hit all grieving emotions in the matter of 3 hours and was his normal self the next day. Although it was awful to have the kids find her and go through the experience, it was a great opportunity to do some reflection with the kids in talking about death.
Back to the gnomes:
Suzanne came for a meeting and left to find a broken window out of her van while sitting in my driveway.
I totally bit it at Castles and Coasters in front of a crowd of people. Nothing worse than a BUNCH of people asking if you're okay.
I've had endless accounts of bad luck this past month, some I cannot go into blogging.
I've tried to be patient and tell myself they are silly gnomes. But the last straw came on Friday when I found out I'm headed for surgery on Wednesday. (Details to follow later)
My question: Do I burn them, shatter them in pieces, offer them to anyone who has a vendetta, or give them to my worst enemy?

We still managed some smiles:

Many Have Asked....Here's The Answer

2009-09-25T13:50:00.004-07:00

How do I express being released after four years of service as Relief Society President?
Bittersweet. I will now have more time to devote to other things. I can volunteer in my kids' classrooms more, read more books, have a cleaner house, dedicate more time for the school board, use less minutes on my cell phone, be more available to family and friends, and simply just be able to be a 'friend' again. Some friendships did suffer for the fact that I had to be available to more people (more to counsel than to hang out with), therefore, I was less involved with those I needed to be with to cultivate relationships. I am also excited for a new challenge with my Stake calling in the RS Presidency. I love to teach, train, and work with people so I will be able to take all I've learned and work with a broader spectrum. I will miss being in the trenches, but happy to share knowledge and ideas to help other's work in theirs.

On the flip side, this week has been hard. First, I miss those whom I've served with. Not being able to see them or talk as often has left me with the feeling that a piece of me has been removed. I relied on them for strength, support, and filling me with knowledge and truth. Also, I am dealing with the struggle that I sincerely love the women of the ward and I now feel there needs to be distance. It will be hard to know of some of their difficulties and not be able to say, "How are you doing with this or that?" Not that I will separate as a friend, but the details, I no longer need to know. They have someone else to turn to. I just need to find the right balance again. And last but not least, I'm lonely. With the mantle of the calling comes such a sweet guiding spirit that was always there, in my ear, prompting and guiding me. Once I was released, it left. I feel like I've lost my best friend.

It is a great testimony to me, that no matter who is placed in a calling, the work rolls forth. I was grateful to be an instrument in His hands and know without a doubt 'God doesn't call the qualified; but qualifies the called.'

Sometimes We Forget

2009-09-18T15:29:00.027-07:00

Thanks for everyone's support regarding my soon to be labor. After having heard plenty of reasons why other's would rather have a baby than a kidney stone...I have decided having a baby is harder work. I forgot, there are way too many rules:

I'm Going to Give Birth!!!

2009-09-16T09:21:00.007-07:00

Yes, please start sending me gifts, making me meals, and ooh and ahh all over me because I'm going to need it. I'm so excited for this new phase in my life. One that the body starts going down the tubes due to my lack of properly taking care of it. No more invincibility, no more diet Cokes, diet Dr. Peppers. Why? Kidney Stones. I'm going to be a mother of a rock.

I've often heard it's quite a lot like childbirth and I'm beginning to see why. I'm continually in the doctor's office, I'm peeing in cups all the time, and begging for it to be over. Yes, Lori, for once I'm going to be copying one of your posts because I remember you giving us T.M.I. over your kidney stone...and although I had empathy for you, I did not completely gush all over you, I only hoped I'd never have to go through the same thing.

T.M.I. time: I've had symptoms of a urinary tract infection for months. Everytime I went to the doctor to test if I had one, it always came back negative. I kept going back as symptoms kept getting worse. I believe my doctor started to think I was a hypochondriac. Yet, alas, a few weeks ago, FINALLY a positive result... I had Ecoli and another infection...bring on the antibiotics. After 2 weeks of Cipro...nothing, in fact worse. I had such a horrible night one night, I had a friend hook me up with Percoset. Trust me, for me, this is worse case scenerio...I hate, HATE pain killers. I get so nauscious, talk gibberish, and wake up gasping for air in my sleep since I'm so relaxed, I forget to breathe.

I've heard horror stories of Urologists, but by this point, they couldn't make me feel any worse than I had already been feeling. So long story short, after interesting appts. and several CT scans....kidney stones. Lots. Common reason for kidney stones: dehydration. I have now consumed more water in the last month than I have for the past 2 years.

Doctor has informed me that if I don't pass this ginormous kidney stone by the end of next week, surgery will be the next step. It would be invasive and they would have to leave a stent in for a couple weeks. I'm doing everything I can to not let that happen. I've never had anethseia, nor do I want to. That scares me more than the surgery.

My point is, drink plenty of water and if anyone would like to throw me a shower or something, I'm game. Not sure what kind of stone I'm having yet, but a unisex gift is fine. What the little fellow/fella could look like:

Cute, aren't they?

13 Years of ???

2009-09-08T10:26:00.006-07:00

13 years of bossiness, 13 years of snoring, 13 years of nose blowing, 13 years of back seat driving, 13 years of mistakes, 13 years of sarcasm, 13 years of sports, 13 years of shopping, 13 years of cleaning up, 13 years of budgeting, 13 years of serving, 13 years of anger management, 13 years of honey-do lists, 13 years of remote control arguments,13 years of hard times.....13 years of bliss. Happy Anniversary, babe. This year I had no idea what to get Jason. So, I thought to go for the cheesy sentimental. I thought of 13 great memories, put symbolics of them in a bag, and had him guess. How wonderful it was to reminince. We've been conditioned to running through this marriage, not many easy strolls. It's challenging, tiring at times, yet, the joy from it is worth the race.

1. KIT KAT...When I was pregnant with Brynna, we lived in a condo next to a gas station. He had to jump the wall almost every night and buy me a Kit Kat that I was craving.

2. GASTON...This has to be the most favorite impression my husband does. He does it perfectly. I think why I like it so much is because it is such an alter-ego thing for him. He can always make me smile talking like Gaston.

3. OLIVE OIL...For the endless blessings he has given his family and all that he will continue to do to bless us.

4. LOOFA...One time, Jason was in the shower and lost his footing...I've never seen anyone wipe out so hard. Fell out of the shower, taking the curtain and everything down with him. An image that is imbedded.

5. KNIFE...I am a huge clutz, but Jason is worse. He is continually hurting himself...stabbed himself with a knife while making breakfast, has fallen many times down the stairs, charred himself and lost hair over the BBQ, the list goes on and on...

6. YEAST PILLS...While on an airplane with a bunch of Mardi Gras attendees, Jason was watching a movie with the headphones on. Out of nowhere, at top volume (because of the headphones) asks me 'How's your yeast infection?' I was humiliated. While exiting the plane I actually had someone tell me..'good luck with that'...and they were like 6 rows ahead of us. I could have killed him!

7. GHOST...We had the best time staying in the haunted hotel. He has been willing to give in to things that interest me.

8. FLAG...He is the peacemaker of our home and has captured my heart.

9. TOILET PAPER..He has been enlisted many times to participate in my pranks upon others. He's not always happy about it, but he's the best accomplice EVER.

10. APPLE....He has been my greatest teacher and I'm so proud of him for continuing his education.

11. CANDLE...So, I almost burnt a house down once. And by that I mean, furniture, carpet, and other things went up in flames. I panicked and started using anything to put it out...even my bare hands. When he came home from work, I was shaken up and told him everything. His response...'Can you believe I had to stand on the bus the whole ride home?' Idiot.

12. ALARM CLOCK..We had a huge blow up over time once. Or should we say, I did. I was a little out of control. Not one of my finer moments. He has taught me to learn to admit to my mistakes.

13. DYSART SHIRT....Jason was my biggest cheerleader while running for school board, and anything I've done. He has taught me I am capable of anything.

AND FOR ME....Jason didn't go for the cheesy sentimental. He went for the shallow, materialistic...and I LOVED it!

I'm Turning.....BLUE

2009-09-05T19:50:00.005-07:00

I am one of those girls who actually really likes football. Growing up in NE...it basically runs in the blood. Jason, on the other hand is a BYU fan. Usually hearing him endlessly talk about them turned me off and I would tune him out. The biggest threat to my marriage has seriously been Ty Detmer. My husband has a huge crush on him and I think would choose him over me...at least for a date anyway.
It's Saturday night....game day for NE and BYU..same time. I sacrifice (like the good wife I am) and give in to a get together to watch BYU. The Kellis fam just got back from taking Daniel to college and bought us all t-shirts. I have to say, it was one of the most exciting games I've seen in a long time. I may just tune into them more, after all, they took down one of my most hated teams of all time.

SHOOT ME

2009-08-19T21:23:00.004-07:00

First of all, I should know by now to never say never. Brynna went through the Hannah Montana phase...if you haven't been through it yet, it's basically like a Barney phase (overacting, annoying whiney voice, and plain creepy). I don't know what it was other than the fact of seeing her face popping up everywhere. It wasn't too much of a good thing, just too much. When it hit the Walmart scene, that's when I declared, "I will never buy Miley Cyrus/Hannah Montana stuff ever."

So, today, I'm doing things around the house and a song comes on, next thing, I'm dancing...making up a routine. After hearing it I went to research what it was. Much to my dismay, I lived to eat my words. I purchased it on itunes. Now granted, I'm on some pretty heavy antibiotics where some of the side effects that could affect the central nervous system are: hearing voices, seeing things (hallucinations), nightmares, depression, confusion, paranoia, and suicidal thoughts or acts. OR maybe, the side effects have started and this is considered a suicidal act. Never the less, rule numero uno: Never say Never.

What Is Lost, Can Be Found

2009-08-16T22:51:00.037-07:00

Rewind a couple years back. I was kayaking in the Sea of Cortez in Mexico, was overturned, and while bracing to hit the ocean bottom, lost my wedding ring. For our 10th anniversary, we had this ring made and I loved it. I called Jason from Mexico crying...by the time I told him what happened, he was just relieved I wasn't in a jail cell rotting. He was calm as could be and told me, 'it's only a material thing, as long as you're safe, that's all that matters.'
Fast forward...Aug/09
Jason had to go work in L.A. for a week and it was over my birthday. He asked me to come out and spend my birthday with him and pick out a new wedding ring from the same jeweler we always use. I was ecstatic! And then I saw our hotel. Remember from a previous post how I said while in California, I do not like to stay in big hotels due to my fear of earthquakes? Jason told me before he left, that we would be in a smaller hotel. I think it was the first time in our marriage he justified lying to me. His response when I saw it...'well, it's smaller than the other buildings.' He booked us at the Hilton...top floor.

This was our view from our hotel room...

The first thing we do, is go to the jewelry district. I will never purchase a good piece of jewelry anywhere else. Prices for quality almost feels like I'm committing a crime. One ring I tried on was 3 karats, and he asked $1300 for it. CRAZY. I had my choices down to 2 wedding rings and couldn't decide. Then, the jeweler pulls something out, obviously planned....it was MY ring, the one I lost, re-made. I felt the same as when I was in school, and would lose something important. I would go to the lost and found, and upon finding my lost treasure, relief would flood over me. Needless to say, my choice was made, SOLD. Kind of sad we paid twice for the same ring, BUT even though it is material, there was great meaning behind it. And here it be...

While walking downtown, it was a pleasant surprise to see the changes there. It used to be a place where people really only went to work. Now it's turning more into a New York style with more and more people living there and developing the area.

I took these pictures for two reasons...

One of which is part of our retirement, and second, if you think your HOA's are bad, take a gander...

Later, we went as a family to dinner.

My kids LOVE the city...

But love the pool more..

The pool is at the top of the hotel. A little eerie when the businessmen had their binoculars shining down, but, whatever...I'd be doing the same EXACT thing.

Lying in the hotel bed that night, I kept waking up...'what if there's an earthquake'...and then I'd plan it out in my head. Then I'd admire the city, then...'what if there's an earthquake?' I'd re-evaluate and revise my safety plan.

But I awoke at around 3 am and was at peace. The picture below was looking through my eyes from my bed. I started counting floors instead of sheep, listened to cars and sirens instead of crickets. I've come a long way since the midwest. I like to think I am balanced between the city and country...but my lifestyle is definitely city. I love growth, diversity, endless activities, and the feeling that I can become anything my dreams desire. My music posting was what I was listening to on my ipod and described EXACTLY everything I was feeling.

Other random things I miss about L.A. ...

Dummy models in the fasion district that actually have butts. Definitely fit the Latina (and me) demographics.

LOVE, LOVE the prices in fashion district.

And another thing I forgot...

...how much I actually enjoy people putting corny junk on their car, for entertainment purposes while sitting in traffic.

We were able to visit the Thompson's, Hoeke's and Lin's.

Sorry for not having pics of eveyone, but I had to steal these off Brynna's camera, and most were blurry.

My Peanut Butter frosting cake. :)

Birthday Clowns.

Kids that won't share cake. (AKA Josh)

Nanc

For some reason, this looks like a surrogate mother family photo...but no, it's just some white people holding an asian baby.

While at home, I was treated well. My friends do a wonderful job of always remembering and making me feel special.

She knows what I love...accessory rings!!

Sorry, Suzanne...you didn't pose with me. :(

And to my amazing R.S. Presidency...you are truly my sisters. I love what we experience together...the laughs, hardships, joys, and especially the unity.

UPDATE...Jason is back on the crappy birthday list. After ALL that, on my actual Birthday, he forgot to tell me 'Happy Birthday.' So to all those who were like...'ahhhhh, what an amazing man, he's so wonderful'....yep, although he is, he is yet still a man.

"You can't take your eyes off it; I've seen you. You're not eating. You barely sleep. It's taken ahold of you. You have to fight it."

2009-08-04T22:10:00.012-07:00

What??? Is this supposed to be a threat??? I 'DO' a lot....ohhhh, are you talking about the thing I may or may not have done with a list? Let's break this down for those who aren't following. The Bishopric have a list in their clerk's office...let's just call it their 'precious' (in a hair raising Gollum/Smeagol voice). 'Precious' is a list of all who have given talks in church for the past two years. Oh, a master list hanging in the open, you ask? Why, yes...all handwritten, VERY hi-tech. A few weeks ago, 'Precious' went missing and all of a sudden they have all turned into Aragorn, Gandalf, and Gimli (you can place the name for whomever you'd like) and have been hunting down and threatening all in their path. 'Precious' was shredded, destroyed, and pieces were distributed to the fearless trio creating sorrow, bitterness, and the wailing and gnashing of teeth. Luckily, the Hobbits saved the day...and 'Precious' was restored (in better condition) to it's rightful place. The world is made right again. Live and be with the Elves.

FYI...I may live 'in the hood' but I do have a very involved neighbor that informed me of mini- van driving up and down the street...and a girl and boy who got out and delivered the package to my house. (I know that just described like 80 percent of our ward, BUT we can identify cookies to those who make them). I appreciate that cookies were involved, but if I wake up dead (oxymoron) from poisoning...I just wanted the proof out there so the authorities know where to turn.

ASBA Conference...Work and Play

2009-08-01T16:17:00.018-07:00

I went to Flagstaff for a conference presented by the Arizona School Board Association. Being on the governing board, I am able to attend trainings, which are beneficial and rewarding. I come home with a better perspective, one that often changes my one-sided thinking. Being with other school board's from AZ, we are able to share ideas and work together on how to improve our districts. Jason and the kids came on Fri. to spend the rest of the time with me. We were able to do a few activities together, one being the Lowell Observatory. I wasn't especially excited to go, but was glad I went. Jason was the one having to drag me out....I found it fascinating. AND....you can't beat cool weather and the smell of pines on a 115 degree day in Phoenix.

Board Prez..Chrissy Pritchard, Yours Truly, April Allen,

and Superintendent Dr. Gail Pletnick
'SQUIRREL!'

Nathan was able to help move the 6-7 ton telescope.

113 year old make-shift telescope...made from frying pans, bicycle chains, airplane parts, etc.;

I can't get my hair dryers to last a year.

Percival Lowell's Mausoleum

Proof mausoleum's are creepy. This spider was ginormous. If you click on the picture, you can see it's hair and lunch.

Percival discovered the planet Pluto from here....although now it's not a planet...go figure.

.....'SQUIRREL!'.

NE braska

2009-08-01T14:54:00.039-07:00

It's not what many would call a vacation...as far as excitement and luxury go. Every year we go to Nebraska for the summer. Several reasons for this are...family, friends, green grass and clean air, sweet corn, thunderstorms, relaxation, free meals, and fireworks (real ones, not the sissy sparkler crap).
We packed into my mom's car..not comfortable for the 19 hour drive. It always starts off great, but we all have slight tics by the end. My best friend is my ipod. Not only does it help me drive all night, but keeps me sane. The drive home was rough...ask us about our wild mustang sometime.
We came home with great memories....rocketman, private tours in a hospital, learning the lesson that leaving the men in charge does NOT mean the children are safe, Dora the Explorer being a *(!!!#@!, beach balls in a doctor's lounge, facebook quizzes, moaning Myrtle, ethnic festival, realizing why artillery shells are meant to explode in the air, soccer games, trackball, doing princess hair, Ryan Reynolds :), and seeing friends some of which has been over 10 years....just to name a few.

We stopped in Castle Rock, CO to see the Berglund's.

This is an aerial view of Grand Island, NE. I had to climb 1,123 stairs on the ladder from the water tower to get these shots. JK..it's from the tallest building in the city.
Yes, I did grow up this sheltered.

A taste of our Downtown.

Fun with the Cuzn's...

SLIP N SLIDE

HOT PANTS

'My life sucks.'

Great-Grandma Etta

Notice, Brynna is taller.

Grandma and the Crew.

Rainbow Boy.

Mom's Posse.

Feelin' the Love.

Don't Inhale Yellow Smoke

Experiments.

Notice how he is aiming up.

Sweetest Friend in the whole wide world.

Employees Reunite.

So You Think You Can Make A Video

2009-07-09T13:17:00.003-07:00

Anya put out the challenge to make a video and post it. I accepted that challenge....and still have much more planned. In honor of the 4th of July, my brother and I (in our maturity) had to make our fireworks more interesting and thus...the Rocket Man.

Ok, it's not BRILLIANT...but it made for some good laughs on our part. :)

Junk Yard Photo Shoot

2009-06-17T21:22:00.016-07:00

Okay, it wasn't a junk yard, but it COULD have been. We wanted to get more family photos done, but wanted something different than the usual...so we contacted Lori Calhoun, since she herself is unusual. (I love her!) She did a wonderful job and wish her nothing but the best on getting a business up and going. Thanks for making it fun, and virtually painless...just dirty.

For Father's Day, had to get dad and his kids. He is the best father any child could ask for.

He's Accountable

2009-06-11T22:07:00.016-07:00

I ask Nathan continually want he wants to be when he grows up. He says he wants to be the boss. Now he wants to be a police officer so he can boss people to be good. He likes things his way and thinks it's the only and best way. Since I am a LITTLE bossy, we either are a perfect match, or we argue a lot. He loves to make people laugh, so much so that it gets annoying. His sister receives most of the abuse, he teases her endlessly and pulls pranks on his parents. He can quote movie lines better than me. He also has a heart of gold. Brynna recently lost her purse. He was so concerned that he offered her all of his allowance and birthday money to 'make her feel happy again.' This was a huge step because he continually bragged about how much money he had, but was willing to sacrifice it all when he saw her in pain. At that moment, I knew he will be a stalwart young man one day. He was so excited to be baptized. He took it very seriously and there was a special reverence in the room that day. We are so thankful his grandparents and other family members and friends who were able to be there to celebrate his special day with him.

Now I'm in for a whole new element...cub scouts. I'm cringing. Only because it's something I have absolutely no understanding in. I was a deer in the headlights at the first pack meeting. It was the Twilight Zone. I guess I know what the next calling will be for me...den mother. All I know is my son is happy and excited to be with the big boys doing things as a group. He loves to belong and I'm thrilled he will learn to be prepared while learning to become a stalwart young man.

Memorable Memorial Weekend

2009-05-27T13:01:00.019-07:00

School's out, summer's in...Corona Del Mar is how we roll. After several days of over 100 degree temps, the beach was the oasis we were all longing for. For only having water and sand, it's mind blowing how the kids will stay occupied all day. They claim to be bored at home where they have endless things to keep them busy. They are like their Dad and could live at the beach. Other than the sea weed and sun burn, it was a perfect weekend. Have any of you ever got into a hot tub with a sunburn?? It feels like the flesh is peeling away from your body. Good times.
We were able to see our Thompson clan and friends and are so thankful to the Hoeke's for letting us crash with them. Always a pleasure and loaded with fun.

Catie is 'special'.

'Im the trouble starter, punkin instigator

Im the fear addicted, danger illustrated

Im a firestarter, twisted firestarter

Im the self inflicted, mind detonator C yeah

Im the one infected, twisted animator

Im a firestarter, twisted firestarter'

Prodigy has nothin' on you, Christian

Why I Love My Job

2009-05-21T10:35:00.002-07:00

Being on the school board has it's many challenges, stresses, and all nighters, but whenever I get to be involved with the kids, it reminds me of how much I enjoy it with a renewed emphasis of why I am there. Being able to be at the graduations and handing diplomas to students with a gleam in their eye and a future wide open was an absolute honor. I love our students and have high hopes for the future.

Not Her Mother's Daughter

2009-05-21T10:19:00.004-07:00

I have a hard time relating to Brynna sometimes because, well, she is so much better than I. In school, for me, after Spring Break came...so did the grades. I had horrible spring fever and it was a struggle for me to stay focused. Brynna, on the other hand, went to ending the year with straight A's. She had to work extra hard to pull a couple of the grades up.

Sometimes she would come home upset that someone teased her on how tiny she is. I would say, 'Well, you need to tell them......'(and say something I would have said like... when they are older they could only wish to fit in the clothes you wear). Instead, she would tell me how it isn't right or how it wouldn't be nice. And then I feel like the child.

She is truly amazing with a heart of gold and I am so proud that she won student of the year for her outstanding example of the six character traits: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.

Congratulations Brynna!!

A Night Like No Other

2009-05-09T22:54:00.005-07:00

Something amazing happens as a parent when your oldest child goes through the temple the first time. Her life flashed before my eyes. It didn't seem possible that we were already at this stage, yet, she's never been more prepared.

Jason and Nathan went to Father and Son's campout. Brynna and I wanted to plan a special G.N.O. Since she turned 12, I wanted to be able to take her to the temple to help her with her first experience. The youth will be going at the end of the month, but Saturdays are a whirlwind with so many people in and out. I wanted to take the time to help her understand and ask questions. Caity also turned 12 and her parents had the same desire for her. As moms, we thought a wonderful mother's day gift would be to take our daughters together to the temple.

The girls were so excited, nervous, and giddy. It was a refreshing reminder to watch their eyes as they looked around at the paintings, the decor, and the experience with awe and wonder. It made me realize how often I take it for granted. Brynna was amazed at the white hymn books. When it all seemed so real was when they used her name in the ordinances of 'Sister Tanner' and to know they weren't speaking of me. The next 'Sister Tanner' is stepping up and doing her part. It was the highlight of her weekend and she said she has never felt the spirit so strong.

One of my highlights while there, was being in the baptismal area with Robert Allen. He was the one who portrayed Jesus Christ in 'Reflections of Christ'. He was there with his wife and children. As he was baptizing his children, it was captivating....it looked like the Savior himself performing the ordinance. My heart is so full as a mother and it will be a memory that I will cherish forever.

Spontaneous

2009-05-09T22:34:00.007-07:00

I have been wanting to redo the upstairs bathroom for a long time, but always putting it on the backburner. My problem is finding something I won't get sick of in 6 mos, which I hadn't found anywere. I made the mistake of randomly stopping at one of my all time favorite stores, Kirkland, to 'look around'. The domino effect began when I saw the items and it clicked that they were what I had been waiting for. The stars aligned, they had only one 'T' left in almost everything...like it was meant to be. Ahhh, justification.

Piano Recital

2009-05-09T22:20:00.003-07:00

What great talent in such young children. It is wonderful each year to listen to how much the kids are imroving. Brynna played 'The Tempest' and 'Across the Stars.' Nathan played 'Star Wars' original score and 'Ratupsky March'. Still to this day, my kids have not complained about practicing piano. They do so diligently everyday. The hard part for them is I am more strict than their piano teacher, but I'm hoping one day they will appreciate that. I am proud of all their accomplishments and the fact that they bring the spirit of music into our home.