Goals

Directly above the built-in entertainment center I have this huge space that was void of anything and I felt it was too high to put a picture and just couldn't decide on the right thing for it. My friend Carri had a great idea to come up with some words that described our family or could be goals. Here are the words that we came up with. We came up with many more but narrowed them down to these 7. I think it turned out great and I love it!

Family investment/goal setting

I recently looked at wheat grinders on the internet and they are really expensive so I thought that since I have a Kitchenaid I should see if they have a grain mill attachment. It is a fraction of the cost of a stone grinder. This is definitely going on my Christmas/Birthday list. I hope we can save up enough money for it.

I've recently decided on making our own bread. I love fresh bread out of the oven, plus it makes the house smell just divine. I called up a friend's mother to ask her a question about wheat and she was so kind to give me bucket of wheat and also helped me grind it. I love the smell of the wheat grinding, it smelled so nutty and homey. I can't wait to start making bread and feeling like a real homemaker! I just hope that with the twins coming I'll be able to stand in the kitchen and make bread.

Tedious work

After about 5 hours of back-aching work over the sewing machine I was able to finish this blanket for my friend Kadi's new baby. I think it turned out pretty cute. I've made 3 of these rag quilts and each time I remember why I don't make more. I really should go with 10" blocks instead of 5". It would cut the time in half I'm sure. Hopefully this will keep said baby nice and warm!

Current events

Last night our basketball season officially ended by a loss in the 2nd round of the playoffs. It was a disappointing loss in overtime but now Barry can move on with his life and endure the bitter cold that is now upon us during track season! But with track season upon us it means that there is only 3 more months of school left. There's a light at the end of the tunnel finally and we will finally be able to spend some time together.

The past few days we have been able to enjoy some springlike weather and have gone to the park and the kids have been able to ride their bikes and scooters. Yesterday was in the 60s and today a storm has crossed the front range and is now 25. Brrr. Fortunately we were able to soak up some rays yesterday in preparation for today.

Friday night Barry and I sat the kids down and spilled the beans of our summer plans. We plan to meet Barry's sister Cindy in L.A. and take the kids to Disneyland and Sea World. We are stoked and can't wait to go, minus the drive. The kids literally jumped up and down for about 30 minutes after we told them. Payton has been telling everyone that we are going, and I quote, "There's lots a of screaming and a roller coater." (exact wording included). They are super excited to see Mickey and all the Disney characters. It will be great for the kids to get to experience this with their cousins also.

Thursday night Barry decided to drive to Durango, CO with another coach and watch the teams that we were to play last night. They had an enjoyable time but it was a long time in the car. Durango is 5 1/2 hours away. Barry got home at 3:30 Friday morning. He took "a sick day" at school and I was able to attend the temple Friday morning. It was a wonderful experience. I haven't gone to the temple in about a year and a half due to pregnancy and nursing, but I was finally able to get my rear in gear and drive to Denver.

Yesterday I got a wild hair and asked a friend of ours who ran the Bolder Boulder with me 2 years ago if he'd run the Colorado Springs Half Marathon. Just in case you aren't savvy in running that's 13 miles. What? I'm going to have to start training soon. I also hope to be able to run the incline here in Mantiou Springs. Some pretty lofty goals but I'm excited to push myself to the ultimate limit. Training begins as soon as there are some consistent warm days.

Barry is also on a goal orientated trek. He actually plans to cut back his soda consumption and drink water. Wow. For those of who who know Barry this is serious. He was chatting with his friend on his way to Durango and Phil stated that his goal weight was 180 and Barry commented that his goal weight was Phil's current weight plus some. Please pray for us as we challenge ourselves!