Front Porch Friend

Happy Hands...Happy Feet!!

2010-03-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

Today as I was leaving work, I noticed an interesting sight on the greenbelt. A lady was sitting by a small table and the sign said, "Nail Trimmings--$5.00." Okay, my first thought was, "Who gets their fingernails or toenails trimmed by a stranger, by the river on a cold Idaho day?" Ick. Just plain ICK! I soon realized that she was probably selling things to enhance your nails, like maybe a little bling. Interesting how one interpretation of a word can mean something completely different than another interpretation. I'm off to do my own trimmings...for free. You'll have to decide if it involves bling, or just a pair of clippers!

You Betta Shop Around...

2010-03-03T18:07:00.000-08:00

Several mornings a week I meet a friend at the mall and we walk. We walk around and around and while we walk, we talk. We talk and we talk and while we talk, we shop. Window shop, that is. Last week we noticed several interesting displays. Observation numero uno. In the window of one store was a mannequin wearing a tube-top-type dress. The only problem with the dress was that the sunglasses that were anchored in the plastic cleavage had pulled the top down and now the model was baring all---literally. It was the same way the next day. And the next. I'm just wondering, is this the new way to wear these dresses? 'Cause if it is, I'm just not digging it. Observation numero dos. Another popular retail store had an interesting display of jeans in it's window. It wasn't the store that starts with "H" and smells like wood. It wasn't the store that bears the name of our country and a regal bird. It was the store that would fit into this rhyme. One, two, __________my shoe. Anyhoo, the male mannequin was wearin a nice plaid shirt, layered over a nice tee, and topped with an even nicer blazer. So far I'm thinking, 'this is a nice look for the younger set.' And then I see it. Plain as day, and VERY staged. The zipper on the pair of $eventy-plu$ dollar jean$ is halfway zipped up, or zipped down, depending on how you look at it. Again, I ask myself, is this what it takes to sell a pair of jeans? I. Think. Not. In the meantime, I'll do a little less shopping, a lot more talking, and even more walking. Maybe someday I'll fit back into those jeans or that dress. Just know that when I do, the top of the dress will stay up, and so will the zipper on the pants!

Clap for the Wolfman...

2010-02-22T08:22:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it. I finally broke down and went to see "New Moon." I'll admit, I was giddy with excitement thinking about how much fun I had at "Twilight." I'm not a big fan of the books.
In fact, I'm not a fan of them at all. Cassidy, Whitney, Kim and I had such fun at "Twilight" mocking the ever-pale Mr. Cullen as he pouted and flew and glistened and strutted his stuff around Forks. It did have it's high points. Vampire baseball is awesome to watch, especially when accompanied by Muse's Supermassive Black Hole. Edward's grey pea coat is a 'must-have' for all the best dressed vampires on the planet. And, when it comes to neck-breaking, SNAP! Those vampires have that down to a science. So, I really was looking forward to an evening with Cassidy, and again, the lovely Miss Kimberly. At the last minute, Cassidy's friend Ryan came along for the ride. Short of wearing a trench coat and dark glasses to camoflage himself in a theater filled mainly with pre-teen girls and over-age women with a fetish for all things Edward/Jacob, he was about to be introduced to the world of Vampires and Werewolves. My "New Moon" review is as follows:
1. Edward was even a whiter shade of pale in this sequel. Skin the color of Elmer's paste in a jar is NOT attractive. Not on anyone. Especially not on Robert Pattinson. And his lips are that unhealthy magenta color. ICK!
2. Bella, oh Bella, two questions: 1-Why are you such a whiner? No girl I know sits around for 6 months mourning her lost vampire love. Most girls would've gotten up off of the couch, bought some motorcycles, and found a werewolf mechanic. Oh, wait, You did that. 2-Why are you such a player? Get over yourself already. How many girls on the planet can say they have been loved by both a vampire and a werewolf? Make up your mind. I just want to slap you for using Mr. Lautner and then flying off to Italy to meet up with 3 of the baddest looking dudes/vampires I have ever seen just to save your dead boyfriend from coming out of the vampire closet. Have a heart. Werewolves have feelings, too.
3. Speaking of werewolves, I have just three words for Taylor. Nice. Hair. Cut. Not since Michael Bolton has any man ever had worse looking long hair than you. Four more words. Put your shirt on. I'll make it five words. Put. Your. Shirt. On. NOW! And while we're talking about werewolves, those 'man-pree' pants were ridiculous. When transforming from shirtless man into a fake animatronic wolf, I hear gym shorts made of spandex are easier and not as binding. Just a thought. Smooth move, though, in the theater scene when you just grabbed Bella's hand in a flash. I could tell she liked it. A Lot. Plus, taking a girl to a movie called FACE PUNCH buys a lot of points with the ladies. Ryan is still asking when that is coming out on video.
4. The dialogue in this movie was so contrived and predicatable. I'm surprised we weren't kicked out of the theater for how many times we had to repeat what the characters were saying, if only for humor's sake. At one point I said OUT LOUD, "It's not a lifestyle choice. I was born this way." The people behind us were laughing so hard they couldn't stop.
5. That Dakota Fanning makes a wicked looking baby vampire. I DO NOT want to ever meet up with her in an Italian-esque cathedral. And her three Volturi friends. Bad. Dudes. Bad. Hair. Bad Robes. Bad. Bad. Bad.
6. The scenery was pretty. I wish I had a forest behind my house where I could fly through trees, or just lay in the grass for hours surrounded by flowers and vampires.
7. The best part of the movie for me, THE. End. Before it was over, it felt as if we had actually fallen into a Supermassive Black Hole. The soundtrack disappointed, and I expected a little more substance and plot. If I had to choose Team Edward or Jacob, I think I'll go with Jacob. In my opinion, tan is always better than pasty white. Always!

Bleeding Love

2010-02-13T11:07:00.000-08:00

Since Valentine's Day is just around the corner, Mr. Phil and I decided to something romantic AND out-of-the-ordinary. No dinner and a movie for us. Too commonplace for a love like ours. No flowers or candy, either. After all, those flowers will die eventually and the cholesterol checks the week prior have us abstaining from anything sweet and delicious. However, when duty calls, we are front row and center. Today, duty equals a Boy Scout needing help with an Eagle project. The project: a blood drive. So together we went, hand in hand, to share a little bit of what we have that someone else might need. Plenty of upsides to this date. First of all, IT WAS FREE! Second of all, they do play 'romantic' music while you wait. (???Why does the Red Cross equate 'romantic' with country?) Luckily I had my i-pod ready with Leona all cued up to sing "Bleeding Love". Very apropo, considering the circumstances. Sadly, it was not to be. The i-pod died just as the needle went in and I was forced to listen to "Life is a Highway" and some other unidentifiable songs about drinking, D-I-V-O-R-C-E, and a dog in a truck. However, when it was all said and done, we were both a pint less on blood, but happy to know that someday, somewhere we may have made a small difference for someone else. Besides, the best part of the date: (Also free!) Cookies and punch. I guess we will have to get back on the no-sweets wagon another day. Plus, I'm still holding out that my REAL Valentine will actually be a dog. in a truck. Something for me. Something for him. Isn't that the way love's supposed to be?

Feeling VERY Olympic today...

2010-02-12T20:06:00.000-08:00

I want that. The opening ceremony hat. Once again, "the beauty, the romance, the world of Ralph Lauren" has tempted me beyond my means. If I had a spare $75 laying around right now it would. be. mine.

*not digging the white pants. Khaki would've been better. Isn't there some sort of fashion rule that states, "Don't wear white after Labor Day?" Maybe this rule doesn't apply in "the beauty, the romance, the world of Ralph Lauren."

Just-(In)-Other Dumb Blonde

2010-02-12T15:17:00.000-08:00

Remember that song "Another Dumb Blonde" by Hoku? I loved it. I still love it. Today I experienced it when Justin, my bestie and co-worker at the Arts Council 'outed' himself as a member of the dumb blonde club. We were having a pre-Valentine's Day party and he was in charge of ordering the pizza for lunch. Trying to show off his executive assistant skills, he opted to place the order on-line. We even tracked it. Someone named Diane put 3 pizzas for us in the oven at 11:36 a.m. Justin went to pick them up, but when he got there Pizza Hut didn't have record of our order. They claimed they were having 'internet issues.' (Been there, done that!) Anyway, they offered 20% off the order and still made it for us. Justin returned with yummy pizza and The Office was happy again. That is, until Justin gets an e-mail from Domino's asking him when he's going to pick up his order. Ha! ha! Ha! I was laughing out. loud. when he admitted this experience brought him out of the closet and into the world of another dumb blonde. You go, girl! I mean, you go, guy! Hoku would be proud. That's alright, that's okay, we loved the pizza anyway!

Don't Go Breakin' My Heart

2010-02-06T12:35:00.000-08:00

In honor of February being 'heart-health' month, my numero uno and myself had our cholesterol checked a few weeks ago. Today, the results were delivered. I'm happy to say we are both relatively healthy and should be around for each other for many years to come. HOWEVER, each of us needs to do some slight modifications in our eating and exercising. I need to raise a few points in one area, Phillip needs to lower a few points in another. So, to insure that we will live to see another 'heart-healthy' February, today is the day we start changing things up a bit. Eating even more fruits and vegetables, eliminating massive amounts of Miracle Whip (Mr. Phil), drinking more water (Miss Joy) eliminating fried foods (Both--Do you think french fries and tots are considered 'fried'?) and adding more resistance training to our workouts. We're on the right track. We just need to get better at what we are doing. One step at a time in the right direction. As long as we're taking those steps together, I think we'll make it. Especially if we also eliminate anything wrapped in shiny paper that resembles chocolate. (Perhaps that modification will occur after February 14th.)

p.s. I love you

2010-02-03T07:02:00.000-08:00

February is upon us. Time for love and romance, flowers and candy, perfume and presents. I discovered this little gem of a gift while window shopping in the mall yesterday. I'm sending some to my missionary. After all, it does reference one of our all time favorite songs by the Fab Four.

As I write this letter

Send my love to you

Remember that I'll always

Be in love with you.

Treasure these few words 'til we're together

Keep all my love forever

p.s. I love you

you, you, you.

Oh, and yes, I will be sending it with a letter, signed affectionately, of course, p.s. i love you.

2010-01-02T12:47:00.000-08:00

2009 was an extremely busy, highly stressful, but fantastically rewarding year for me. Between a graduating senior, a daughter departing for a mission, baseball, basketball, another daughter departing for college, and practically giving birth to "ANNIE" (it felt like labor and did take nine months!) I wasn't able to endulge myself in reading as much as I would've liked. Plus, I often have a hard time finding something that I really want to read. So, when I stumbled across a little gem of information that led me to a book I had heard little about, I decided to give it a go. Thanks to a generous gift card to Barnes and Noble, I purchased my very own copy of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and saved it until New Year's Eve. The quote at the beginning of the book affirmed to me that, this, indeed, was going to be a fabulous journey. "Perhaps there is some secret sort of homing instinct in books that brings them to their perfect readers." This book was magically brought to me and now I am magically bringing it to you. At times it made me laugh out loud, Other times the tears were falling so freely that I had to stop and regain my composure. It is beautifully written, with characters so well defined that you can't help but wish they were your friends and neighbors and lovers and enemies. I think the thing that touched me the most about this wonderful present, is the fact that it made me miss Whitney so, so, so, so much. I wanted her by my side, reading it silently and simultaneously. I can give you page numbers where I know we both would've said, "Oh, I so love her language," or "Ha, that is just what I thought!" It would have definitely been a race to see who could finish first. In so many ways, the main character Juliet, is my Whitney. Juliet is an author. Whitney wants to be an author. And will be. They both have curly hair. They both love books more than anything. They both live by this quote, "I sometimes think I prefer suitors in books rather than those right in front of me." The more I read, the more I knew. This was a book my Whitney could've written. Someday she will. Write a book just like this. Something fabulous and wonderful that captures your heart and won't let it go. I know it's a bit early to start giving gifts since another Christmas is already past and gone, but I am sending a gift to all of you via my blog. If you haven't already been marveled and amazed by this book, get your hands on a copy and start reading it NOW! Don't wait until you have 'time'. Find the time. Put everything else aside. Trust me, in the end it will be so worth it. In fact, it will also be worth it in the beginning, in the middle, and on every page in between. "Treat yourself to this book, please--I can't recommend it hightly enough." Elizabeth Gilbert, author

***Side note: DO NOT skip reading the acknowledgements, afterthoughts, or book group discussion questions. They, too are all enlightening, and add even more depth to a joyous ride. To quote Isola, "reading good books ruins you for enjoying bad ones."

Let Heaven and Nature Sing

2009-12-14T07:27:00.000-08:00

In honor of my beautiful daughter Whitney, who is serving a mission in Houston, here is my FAVORITE version of my FAVORITE Christmas song. Ever. Listen to it ONCE. Listen to it TWICE. Listen to it ALL. DAY. LONG. and if you can find the time, watch the movie where it was originally performed. Check out THE PREACHER'S WIFE, starring the lovely Miss Whitney. Houston, wearing a bevy of stunning coats and hats, and of course, my main man, Mr. Denzel. Washington, also wearing a fabulous coat throughout, and sporting those dazzling whiter-than-white pearly whites. It's a FEEL GOOD, FEEL GREAT, FEEL FABULOUS, HOLIDAY TREASURE that will rock you into the holiday season. Come on everybody sing, "Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy...Joy To The World!"

A Suite that's Sweet...

2009-12-05T21:01:00.000-08:00

When I was a girl I loved The Nutcracker ballet. Sometimes my mother would take me to a live production. Sometimes I would watch it on tv while Mikhail Baryshnikov leaped and spun and jumped and twirled all over the land of the sugar plums. I dreamed of being Gelsey Kirkland so I could be spun and twirled by the aforementioned manly-man of the ballet. My first born daughter bears his name as her middle. It was magical when I took Whitney and Cassidy to their first Nutcracker, even though Cassidy was nearly scarred for life by the appearance of the evil Mouse King with glowing red eyes! Every time I hear the opening strains of Tchaikovsky's Waltz of the Flowers it takes me to a better place and time. A time of wonder and fantasy, artistic beauty and amazing talent. Tonight I visited a local production of The Nutcraker by the Idaho Ballet Theatre, featuring guest artists from the Utah Regional Ballet. For two hours I was again transported back into that land where candy reigns supreme. In the finale, when the Sugar Plum Fairy and her handsome cavalier pas de deux it give me chills. I don't want it to end. I want him to hold her in that final pose forever. I know the moment he puts her down, the show is over and it's back to reality. So, if you're looking for something to bring magic and wonder to your holiday season, escape for awhile to the the land of nutcrackers and mice and waltzing flowers and dancing snowflakes and the Sugar Plum Fairy. If you can escape with Mr. Baryshnikov, even better. Even more. Magical.

Red Bird Singing in the Dead of Night...

2009-12-01T15:09:00.000-08:00

"Take your broken wings and fly into the night." Don't depair. I'm not trying to change the lyrics of another Beatles tune. This is a shout out to all of my literary-minded besties to find some time this month to read one of my all time favorite books, A RED BIRD CHRISTMAS by Fannie Flagg. You won't be disappointed. It's tender, funny, poignant, and even has a bird with broken wings flying into the night! It will lift your spirits and make you soar with happiness. Read it today. Available on line at Barnes and Noble, or for $9.88 at Sam's Club!

Five Hundred, Twenty Five Thousand, Six Hundred...

2009-11-27T19:57:00.000-08:00

...Dinners. How do you measure...measure a year? This year, my season to measure dinners was the month of November. Autumn is my season to spend a few hours each Friday cooking and serving at our local soup kitchen. It's one of those things I look forward to. I like the feeling that I can give back to my community with just a small sacrifice of my time and a little bit of cooking creativity. Some of my menu items included soup and sandwiches, shepherd's pie, salmon croissants, and all-the-turkey-and-fixings-leftovers-you-can-eat! Over the past 4 weeks myself and approximately 40 volunteers served lunch each Friday to approximately 614 people. That's an average of 153 people per day. Multiply that by 7, and you get 1,074 for a weekly total. Multiply THAT by 52 weeks in a year, and we will have served approximately 55,874 people by years' end. I often wonder as I see the same patrons return, day after day, week after week, month after month, season after season, if there is any hope that someday their lives will improve for the better. I don't know the answer to that. I only know that my opportunity to serve at the soup kitchen puts my own life into a greater perspective.I'm grateful each day of every season for so many things that I can measure in my life. My family and friends, food a plenty, a comfortable home, health, and happiness. The knowledge of a loving Heavenly Father who blesses me beyond my deserving. I'm thankful for 'daylight and sunsets and midnights' and yes, even the opportunity to serve those 'cups of coffee.'Multiply the number of meals served by the number 2 and the minimum number of cups of coffee that we serve over the course of a year is 111,748. Next time you have a few extra of those five hundred, twenty five thousand, six hundred minutes, take a moment to pause and reflect on what you have. Then step outside of the box and find something to do for someone who may have less. You'll find the minutes you spend serving will fly by!

And always remember to 'Share love. Give love. Spread love. Measure the love. Measure your life in love.'

They'll Bring the World His Truth

2009-11-14T21:50:00.001-08:00

Teenage boys. They liven up our home whenever they visit. They put up with my quirkiness and tolerate Phillip's jokes. They have spent hour upon hour playing with Eli. They have been there to bring a sparkle to Cassidy's eyes, a smile to her lips, and even once in awhile, wipe away a tear or two. However, from the day the boys started walking through our front door, I knew it was inevitable. The time would come when their footsteps would no longer echo across the hardwood floor. Their laughter would be stilled and their smiles would become a mere memory in my minds' eye. The day would come when they would leave behind the world of friends and fun and girls and good times. White envelopes start arriving almost monthly, bearing the words, "You have been called to serve as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." Every time an envelope is opened, we prepare for one more goodbye. These young men are ready to serve. They are willing to go where He wants them to go. They are the best of the best. With Honors. We have been privileged to have them in our home on more than one occassion and I am confident that each and every one of them will be 'the Lord's missionaries, bringing the world His truth." I am grateful each day for the friendship and respect they have shown Cassidy. Her heart breaks a little each time someone says 'farewell'. She knows they are making the right choice. The only choice. She supports them. She also knows she will miss them. We will miss them, too, but are so proud of the journey they are about to embark on. I thank them for the example they are to Eli. He watches every move they make. He wants to be like them. He, too, wants to be a missionary.
Those footsteps are now and soon will be echoing across sidewalks and pavements and dirt roads and hardwood floors in faraway countries and cities across the United States. Their laughter will be ringing in someone else's home and those winning smiles will be spreading the good word of God. They will be teaching in languages new and languages familiar, but they will be teaching with the Spirit and they will all rejoice as they 'bring save it be one soul' into the gospel of Jesus Christ.As two more of the 'best of the best' prepare to depart this week, I wanted to wish them one last 'good-bye and good-luck.' You will be in our prayers always. May God be with you as you go forth to harvest. The field is white and you are ready to serve!

Oh, My Goodness! Oh,My Goodness!

2009-11-07T07:24:00.000-08:00

It's time for Eli's Opening Night Review of Annie. No names have been changed to protect the innocent. He tells it like it is...that is, like it is through the eyes of an 8-year old boy. 1. I laughed when they ripped the head off of the doll. That is SO COOL!

2. When Grace ran into the wall I laughed hysterically. It probably gave her a headache!

3. Easy Street was funny, but dad told me when Rooster and Miss Hannigan looked down to the ground it meant their mother was in (eyes roll here)you-know-where (he points his finger down.) After I explained that it actually meant she was dead and they were referring to her being in 'the grave' he says to me, "Oh, I like it a lot better since it didn't mean she was in hell...oops...I mean you-know-where!"

4. I really got the part where Miss Hannigan is listening to Annie on the radio and says sarcastically, "One day they will make a whole musical about Annie." It's really funny right there because she is in a musical about Annie.

5. At the end when Molly chases Miss Hannigan off stage and comes back on the butler's shoulders that is a good 'special effect.'

6. Not a lot of kissing in this show. That's good. Especially since there's no lip kissing. Except for the butler and Lily at the end. That's okay, though, since they are married, right? They are married because they are Annie's real parents in real life. No one else should lip kiss.

7. The NYC projection scene was really cool. It was like being in a real theater. (I guess I will have to tell him that he was in a REAL theater.)

8. Mom, your name was at the top of the list in the program since you're the producer. Does that mean you are important? You should be, since you've been doing Annie for weeks now. I'm glad they put you at the top.

9. Annie is lucky she got to do such a big part in a big show for her first time ever. She is a good Annie. I hope she gets to do it again sometime.

10. This show was different from Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. No women played men parts and no men played women parts. I liked that.

11. Cameron was funny. He has a good radio show voice.

12. The boy with the puppet and the APPLAUSE sign did a good job with his part. Whenever he held up the APPLAUSE sign the audience clapped. I think he is a good actor since people were following his instructions.

13. Was that real popcorn in the movie scene? If it was, why weren't they eating it? 'Cause I was hungry during that scene and I would've eaten that popcorn.

14. When Sandy was dragging the lady maid across the stage at the end, I was cracking up so hard I couldn't stop laughing. She is funny, and so is Sandy.

15. The best song for me was the first one with the orphans. I think it's called Hard Knock Life. It had a catchy beat and they could dance to it. (Shades of RATE A RECORD with Dick Clark here. Maybe Eli can work on American Bandstand if they ever bring it back!)

16. The orphan who kept saying "Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness!" had a good character voice.

17. Does Annie's mom, the one who played Lily, really talk like that in life?

18. It was a very funny show. The people next to us laughed at every funny line, even the ones I didn't get.

19. I'm giving this show 10 stars out of 10 stars. I hope I can go again, but only if there are enough tickets left.

20. Should I give it a thumbs' up, too? Okay. Two. Thumbs. Up. If everyone in the audience would hold up two thumbs that would be a lot of thumbs. Like maybe 1200 thumbs or something like that.

If you haven't seen Annie yet...see it soon...it's in The Colonial Theater near you. November 7, 9, and 10th. Be there...TOMORROW!

Eight Days A Week...

2009-10-16T06:58:00.000-07:00

" I looooooooooove you! Eight days a week...is not enough to show I care!"

Today is Eli's birthday! Eight years ago, a not-so-tiny bundle of 9 lb.s 14 oz and almost 24-inches long was placed in my arms. The much-anticipated day had finally arrived, and with Eli's appearance on the Sorensen family scene, things have never been quite the same. He has his sisters mesmerized and hypnotized by his savant personality. They call him 'Mr. E' because he keeps them guessing with what he will amaze them with next. He is his dad's best partner, buddy, and pal. They play ball together, they fish and camp together, they wrestle and tease,and they share a great love for the 'bedtime story'. And as for me, the mom, well, he had me from the first time our eyes met. He is my only boy, but he is also my best boy, my favorite boy, my boy above all others. He tells great knock-knock jokes, gives the best hugs, and lets me win at Dance, Dance Revolution. He is, my beautiful, beautiful, beautiful boy.

"One thing I can say, boy, love you all the time."

Today he turns eight. Eight is great! Not only is it the basis for a great hit by the Fab Four, but it's a special birthday that comes with special reponsibilites. My boy will be getting baptized soon. On Halloween. He can't wait. He's ready. He's prepared. He knows which gift this year will be the most important. It wasn't the wii lightsabers, or Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Not even the new scriptures. He reminded me last night, "the best present is coming...it's the Holy Ghost!' Ahh. He knows.

"Love you every day boy, got you on my mind."

Eight also brings scouting, the beginning of years and years of pow wows and pack meetings and Pinewood Derbies, merit badges and manhood training. I hope my son is ready to 'do his duty to God and his country, to help other people, and to obey the law of the pack.' With his dad as the Scoutmaster, we anticipate he will be receiving his Eagle in oh, about two weeks. We will get back to you on that.

"I ain't got nothing but love, babe, Eight days a week!"

Happy, Happy Birthday to my one and only Eli. May your eight be great...eight days a week!

Clambake...Gonna Have a Clambake...

2009-10-07T15:42:00.000-07:00

Everyone who knows me knows I love Elvis movies. There's just something about them that makes me happy. Maybe it's his sly-come-hither stare with those deep blue eyes. Maybe it's his jet black hair. Maybe it's all the cool dancing and great singing. Maybe it's the fact that half of the time they end up on the beach. Guys with surfboards and girls in bikini's. Singing and eating, eating and singing. One of my all time favorites is "Clambake". Great movie, great beach scene, great song with great lyrics:

"Hey listen world you've got to know,

I'm cuttin' loose and lettin' go.

Who need the worry and the strife?

It can be a ball just now following my life."

Clambake, gonna have a clambake. Clambake, gonna have a clambake!"

Look for the brightest lights in town.

That's where you'll find me hangin' round.

I've got this feeling to be free.

I pick and choose the life I want and that's the life for me!

Clambake, gonna have a clambake. Clambake, gonna have a clambake!"

This weekend I came close to living my dream of going to a real clambake. My dad cooked a 'crab boil' especially for me. Crab legs, shrimp, bratwurst, corn on the cob and baby potatoes, all boiled up together in a big aluminum pot. Normally you dump it all out on newspapers, roll up your sleeves, and just dig in. As long as there is plenty of butter to dredge everything in, it's kind of like being in seafood heaven. The food was D.I.V.I.N.E. We had plenty of eating, but no singing. A few other things were also missing from my clambake. No Elvis, with his shy-come-hither stare. No deep blue eyes. No beach. No cool dancing. No guys with surfboards. And luckily, for everyone in attendance, no girls in bikinis, either. I'll save that for another day!

They Say it's Your Birthday...

2009-10-06T20:54:00.000-07:00

"We're gonna have a good time."

Whitney turned twenty-two today. Not twenty-one. That was last year. Next year, it will be twenty-three. I hate to be cliche, but there is a lot of truth to the saying, 'time flies when you're having fun.' For the last twenty-two years, Whitney has contributed to us having fun as time flew all around us. We have laughed over Kip and Napolean discussing chapped lips and cage fighting. We have laughed over movies about men dating puppets. We have laughed about clowns and go-go boots and knock-knock jokes and various Disney movies about high school heart throbs and country hicks in blonde wigs who hit the big time! With Whitney around, laughter IS the best medicine. I hope she had a chance to laugh today, and that she made someone else laugh, too!

"I'm glad it's your birthday!"

We are miles apart on this great day of remembrance, but I'm still glad it's her birthday. Whitney's arrival was not without a bit of drama. 18 days late, almost 18 hours of L.A.B.O.R and the emergency c-section are still fresh in my mind. But the picture I choose to remember is one of a tiny pink bundle, precious and perfect and mine. All mine. Twenty-two years later that memory still makes me smile. And shed a tear or two. ,

"Happy Birthday to You!"

Tradition dictates that birthdays also bring gifts. Whitney opened a few presents from us today, but she has been a gift to us every day for the last twenty-two years. Long before she was born, I wished upon a candle for a 'secret something' I dreamed would come true. Something I hoped would come true. Whitney is proof that birthday candle wishes do come true. I hope she got to blow out some candles today. I hope someone sang her a birthday tribute. I hope she had some red velvet cupcakes. They are To. Die. For. And I wish and hope that the secret dreams she shared with her birthday candles will someday come true for her. Just like she came true for me.

My Boyfriend's Back...

2009-09-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

I went with Eli's class on a picnic in the park today. I've got two words for my son.
Chick. Magnet. During lunch he was surrounded by a table full of girls. I counted them. There were nine. Conversations ranged from , "Eli, remember, we're going to play together after lunch." to "Eli, don't forget, I'm your partner in the relay race." to my personal favorite from Eli's gal-pal Evelyn. "Mrs. Sorensen, Eli is my best boyfriend. We never fight. Ever. We could practically get married since we never fight. Ever." All in good fun, but it gets even better. I notice that during lunch, people keep bringing Eli treats. Jenny gives him an Airhead. Adri gives him an extra juice box she brought, 'just for him.' Not to be outdone, Evelyn reminds me that 'Yesterday I brought an extra juice box for Eli. He is my best boyfriend." There are Ding Dongs from Marley, an offer of Cheetos from Kate, which he politely declined, and a delightful bagel with Nutella, which he also politely declined. I'm not sure if he's running some type of illegal lunch-time-snack-scam, or if they are literally trying to impress him, but it was quite comical to watch. If it's like this at 8, what will it be like when he's sixteen? I can't even begin to imagine!

"There's No Business Like Show Business"

2009-09-22T09:26:00.000-07:00

Last night we took Eli to see a local stage production of SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS. When he was four our family went to see it at The Playmill in West Yellowstone. His only memories of that particular show were a few guys and girls singing on stage, 'Heidi's Famous Fudge', and the bat we found outside our hotel room. Suffice it to say, he was actually looking forward to the show this time. For your reading pleasure, here is an "After-the-show" closing night review, compliments of Eli, almost 8 now, and preparing to become a seasoned theater critic.

'"The theater was really cold. Next time I will wear pants, not shorts."

"I'm glad they had popcorn but it made me thirsty." (Think: "if you give a boy popcorn, then you will have to buy him root beer, then he will have to use the bathroom," etc.)

"I didn't really get some of the 'love stuff', but I am so okay with that. ICK!"

"The fight scenes were pretty good, but they could have used a little more violence."

"I laughed really hard when they boys were chasing the girls and trying to hide them and one of the girls rolled over on the floor and you could see her bloomers under the dress. That was SOOOO funny!"

"Why was a woman playing a man? Even with the fake beard I still knew she was a man!" (For those of you who are familiar with SNL skits, I told my friends who were with us, this particular character must've gone by 'PAT')

"I like some of the songs in this show, especially the ones where the men sing. I do not like the songs about love. ICK!"

"I like when they came up the aisle in the audience with guns, but they should've done some shooting with those guns. Even if they were just props."

"The avalanche scene was too fake for me. They should work on that for next time."

"I'm glad they didn't use a real baby. It probably would've been screaming the whole time."

"Too much kissing!"

"I would like to see the movie to make a 'comparison' of both shows."

There you have it. SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS through the eyes of Eli. He gave it 'two thumbs' up right before he drifted off to sleep. For the record, I have to agree with everything he said. He was right on the money. I hope he can be this objective when he reviews my production of ANNIE in one month. Maybe I should start buttering him up now with lots of popcorn and root beer!

"Meat" Me Halfway

2009-09-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a pre-birthday lunch with a friend. We went to Sizzler. We wanted to have the salad bar. The lady helping us at the cash register was not very friendly. While we were ordering our drinks and waiting to pay, the man behind us asked the crabby cash register girl to describe the 'bistro sandwich.' She kind of growled at him and said, "I'm a vegetarian. I don't eat meat. I've never tasted meat. I have no idea what the bistro sandwich would taste like. You'll have to ask the other girl at the other register." And then, to finish off this lovely conversation, she concludes with, "You're probably wondering why a vegetarian is working in a steak house. Well, I don't even know the answer to that myself!" Go figure. I'm still speechless. And also meat-less, since I really only did eat the salad bar. And no ice cream!

Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone...

2009-09-05T19:47:00.000-07:00

...and now that's she's gone, she has taken her sunshine with her.

Cassidy left for college on Monday. Today is Wednesday. I have been composing this blog in my head for months now. Wondering what to say. Dreading the day I would actually have to say these two words. "She's gone." Some days I wonder, 'tell me, how am I supposed to breathe with no air, no air, no air?' My throat closes up every time I allow myself to think what it is going to be like for her not to be here. With me. Telling me her secrets. Laughing about Gilmore Girls and random Lorelai-ism's. Sharing her 'Stella-Fashion-Sense.' Reminding me that David Archuleta WILL be my future son-in-law. I miss more laughing. More secrets. That certain tone in her voice when a 'special' someone calls on the phone. And there are several. Special someone's. I miss her purse on the counter, and her shoes in the doorway, and her books spread randomly in every room of the house. I miss her early morning bathroom mess and the scent of her perfume. I miss her 'goodnight, mom, I love you.' I. Miss. Her. So. Much. 'I try to say goodbye and I choke. Try to walk away and I stumble. Though I try to hide it, it's clear, my world crumbles when you are not near.' Saying goodbye to one girl was hard enough. Saying goodbye to both of them is even harder. From the moment I first held each of them in my arms I knew that this day would come. I never expected it to come so soon. The day when there were no more girls in my house. Texas is so far away. Eighteen months (now only 15!) seems like an eternity. The distance from our driveway to Cassidy's apartment is only 25 minutes. And yet, it, too, seems like an eternity. Evan and Jaron give meaning to my feelings every time they sing, 'I can't take the distance. I can't take the miles. I can't take the time until I next see you smile." I miss their smiles. Both of them. I also want the best for my girls. Higher education. Adventures and world travel. Old friends and new. Broken hearts and dreams fulfilled. Husbands and families. Happiness to 'eternity and beyond.' All in due time. Allowing them to experience life involves letting them go. In the spirit of 'chin up' and 'things will only get better' and the obvious, 'it will be such a great experience for her (them, as in Whitney, too) I will share with you what "I know, I know, I know..."

***I know that Cassidy will be fabulous in college. After spending the day with her on Monday, it is evident that her 'gift' of making friends will serve her well. She includes anyone and everyone in her sunshine. Even if you only meet her for a brief moment, you will know that she is someone special, and she makes you feel even more special. It won't be long before the door to our house will open once again, with old friends and new acquaintances gracing our home with their smiles and laughter. All because Cassidy Shares. Her. Sunshine.

***I know that Cassidy will be an impressive student. She will study hard, do her best, and take advantage of all the learning possibilities that are now available to her. She is like a sponge. She's ready to live. She's ready to dream. She will absorb anything and everything that will bring her even closer to the divine potential that is within her. She's got hope.

***I know that she knows that her redeemer lives. I have watched her spiritually mature over the years into a wise and willing servant of her Heavenly Father. She knows that He loves her. She listens when He speaks to her. She obeys. He has great promises in store for her. She is preparing now for a marvelous and wonderful future. Her path is straight. Her feet are solid. She will always be there when He says, "Come, Follow Me." I am greatly blessed. I know that she knows.

As the days go on, my tears and no-breathing will start to subside. Knowing how happy and busy she is, I am thankful everyday she is where she wants to be, doing what she want to be doing...

'Cause now she's ready, yeah, she's ready, yeah she's ready to be 'extraordinary.'

p.s. Lest I have made this blog too sentimental, I have hidden different song titles and lyrics within my words. Find the most; win a prize. A special cd burned just for YOU. Full of great 'goodbye' songs to make you cry. Make a comment on my blog to play along, or e-mail me with your guesses. write2missjoy@hotmail.com Have fun! And remember to promise me that sometimes, you will think of me.

"I Know, You Know"

2009-09-01T22:09:00.000-07:00

Here is something that is really bugging me. A. Lot. I love PSYCH. I love Shawn. I love Gus. I love Lassie and Juliet and Shawn's dad. My greatest humorous moments each week come from watching these 'psychic' detectives solve random crimes and mysteries. I have nicknamed Shawn the "Lorelai Gilmore of Detectives" because, he, too, has the gift of witty reparte, never-ending pop culture references, and a quirky fashion style that I enjoy. A. Lot. HOWEVER, here's my gripe. I also love the theme song. A. Lot. I want it for my ringtone. I want it on my i-pod. I want it. Bad. In a Michael Jackson way Bad. Here's the glitch. It's written by the one of the writers on the show and performed by his band, "The Friendly Indians." It's also not available. It hasn't been released AT THIS TIME! Why, exactly, is that? And don't you find it kind of an oxymoron to be in a group named "The Friendly Indians" when you aren't even friendly enough to release your really cool song? I'm just wondering. In the meantime, enjoy the lyrics. I'm sure you can sing along, because the tune is running through your head. Just like it is mine. All. The. Time.

I know, you know, that I'm not telling the truth.

I know, you know, they just don't have any proof.

Embrace the deception. Learn how to bend.

You're worst inhibitions will PSYCH you out in the end.

"Careful the things you say...

2009-08-27T10:21:00.000-07:00

...children will listen." These are the lines from a song I love from INTO THE WOODS. Don't mistake me loving this song to mean I love this musical. I don't. But I was reminded of it's lyrics the other night during auditions and it brought me to this post. So, now, parents, for YOUR listening pleasure:

The other night we went for a Family Home Evening bike ride. Just the four of us. Phillip, Joy, Cassidy, and Eli. As we were riding down the road I casually commented, "We shouldn't all ride side by side or it blocks the cars from coming through." Phillip adds his two cents worth. "You're right. Let's not ride abreast." Eli, not skipping a beat, asks, "What's a breast?" And then proceeds to laugh so hard we almost collide in a heap of 4 FHE bike riders. My boy. My heart. My mini-king-of clever vocab. His other sister would've been proud had she been here. I'm wondering when he will learn the joke, "Dad, your shoes are under there." just so Phillip will answer "Under where?" and Eli will finish it with, "Ha! Made you say underwear!" Careful the things you say...children will listen!

*In case you are wondering when our family became so photogenically beautiful and so much younger, it happened right after we stopped drinking Coke and eating ice cream! Seriously, you don't think I was going to post a picture of the REAL topic of this blog, now do you?

Hope It Gives You *!+#

2009-08-14T15:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Eli had two friends from school over to spend the day. They are, respectively, Christopher and Hannah, who are, coincidentally, twins. We went to McDonald's for Happy Meals and then to the local park for a picnic and some playing. On the way there a popular song came on the radio. You may or may not be familiar with this particular tune. It's by one of Cassidy's all-time favorite groups, The All-American Rejects. The cd was given to her a few months ago as a thank you gift. One of the songs is called, "Gives You Hell" (only using this term once, so from here on out, fill in that blank with this *!+#) Eli has never liked this song. Whenever we listen to it he asks us to turn it off. He doesn't like the "H" word. Growing up with lots of car-singing in our family, I have always told the girls, "If the word is innappropriate, just don't sing it!" Apparently, Eli doesn't even want to hear it. So, when it came on the radio he hurriedly told his friends, "We are turning this off. It says the "H" word." Our little friend Hannah didn't skip a beat, but continued the conversation. "Eli, let me just demonstrate how you can sing this song without saying *!+#. Whenever you hear the word, just open your mouth and make a loud noise like this--HONK!" She then proceeded to HONK throughout the entire song, accompanied by two boys, both deciding that if honking sounds are good for girls to use in place of the "H" word, then of course, belching and farting sounds would be just right for boys to use! I'd be willing to bet that The All-American Rejects won't be calling us anytime soon to replace their back-up singers. And for the record, I think that I, too, will now be turning it off when I hear it on the radio. I'm not sure I can stand another chorus of "Hope it gives you (HONK-FART-BELCH) *!+#

"Can't Buy Me Love"

2009-08-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

" Money can't buy me love." Unless it starts and ends with these four words. Rock Band. Beatles Edition. Arriving soon at a store near you. 9-9-09. If My Love knows what's good for him, we'll be celebrating my 47th year singing, 'na na na na na na, Today is your Birthday...na na na na na na" with my new toy. Everyone should Come Together and play with us. I. Can't. Wait. The only thing that would make it better would be if John and Paul could join us. Oh, yeah. John is dead. I'll settle for Paul. If anyone can arrange that, just let me know. In the meantime, brush up on your Beatles lyrics and get ready to sing-a-long with the Fab Four! (Joy, Phil, Eli, and Cassidy)I'm fairly certain that with A Little Help From My Friends we will be using this wii game Eight Days A Week!

"My baby, she wrote me a letter..."

2009-07-24T08:28:00.000-07:00

I am happy to admit Whitney's mission blog is up and running. Before you start phoning the mission president that she is disobeying mission rules, don't. I'm managing the blog, not Whitney. For those of you who are interested in hearing how she is doing, this will be a great place for you to read her e-mails. We will keep her address posted, too, so that y'all can write back to her. I wish we could share her letters as well. Her gift of putting words on paper has always been a pleasure and this mission is no exception. That being said, as her mother, I don't think she would want me to spend all of my time re-typing them, editing them for content (that's HER job), and trying to decide what should be shared and what should be kept 'within the family.' You've heard the statement, "we would all have more personal spiritual experiences if we didn't share them with everyone." This would be Whitney's request. Some things are meant to be shared; other things are too sacred to be shared with the blogging world, no matter how small our reader/fan base it. So, in the spirit of wanting you to know how great she is doing, but also honoring her privacy, we will share what she wants, and keep the rest for her to share when she returns. Visit her sight often. You won't be disappointed. It will delight and uplift you and put a smile on your face. Here is the website: wit-in-houston.blogspot.com. Or, you can always just click on her picture on my sidebar and it will magically take you there. Comment if you like. But mostly, ENJOY!

Sweet Dreams and Pharmaceutical Things

2009-07-17T19:59:00.000-07:00

Lately I don't sleep so well. I have no trouble falling asleep, but then I wake up numerous times, tossing and turning, never fully reaching a state of nirvana. It could be that I gave up Coke and ice cream. It could be that one daughter is embarking on a new adventure and the other is soon to follow with a new adventure as well. It could be that it is 100-plus degrees in our room at night. It could be that there are just too many great re-run episodes of late-night tv. Whatever the reason, I came across a commercial for Ambien around 1 a.m. that struck me as slightly oxy-moronic, to say the least. (Note to readers: Do NOT continue to read if you are a big fan of Ambien. STOP HERE...I repeat. STOP HERE!) Here is a drug that is supposed to induce restful, relaxing sleep so that I will wake up ready to start the day with more energy than Miley Cyrus on a particulary good day. It has me interested until the disclaimers start rolling. "May cause confusion, delusions, and hallucinations." I sure don't need a drug to do that for me. I'm already confused and delusional most days (probably due to lack of Coke) and I spend a lot of time hallucinating that I look better in swimwear than I really do. The part that really loses my interest comes next. "In rare cases, the use of this drug may cause swelling of the tongue, throat, and in some instances, even death." WHOA. Stop right there, Becky! If I want a swollen tongue and throat I will eat ice cream until they are frozen. (Well, not really. Not since I gave up ice cream FOR-EV-ER!) If I want to die, well, I guess I could give up Coke AND ice cream at the same time. But for now, all I really want to do is sleep. I guess I'll resort to counting sheep.

I'd like to buy the world a Coke...

2009-07-17T19:37:00.000-07:00

I recently turned over a new leaf. I decided to give up Coke. So far I have been Coke-free for exactly 23 days. I stopped drinking it the day Whitney left on her mission. I figure if she can spend the next 18 months working hard in Texas I can spend the next 18 months working hard not drinking Coke. So far, so good. Not nearly as hard as I thought it would be. In memory of laying this vice to rest, I'm sharing just a few of my favorite slogans that convinced me that this was the drink for me. "Have a Coke and a smile." I am living proof of that one. Just a swallow of that distinctively delicious syrup and I am grinning from ear to ear. And don't forget what we all know to be a true statement, "Things go better with Coke." Things like french fries, pizza, hot dogs and of course, baseball. All better when accompianied by an ice cold Coke. "Live on the Coke side of life." I do this every day. Whenever I use one space after a period instead of two. Whenever I use only small-case letters on facebook. Whenever I go out of my mind and decide to give up my addiction at a time in my life when I will probably need it desperately. That's called living on the Coke side of life. And finally, for those of you who choose to disbelieve that I can actually keep up with this lofty goal, think again. No more Coke. Ever. "It's the real thing." Really!

You Scream...I Scream...

2009-07-17T19:12:00.000-07:00

I'm done screaming for ice cream. Phillip and I were invited to an ice cream social/financial planning meeting this week at a local establishment. We don't have much money for anyone to financial plan, but it was free ice cream so we decided to go. When I saw the size of what they were serving I had the weirdest out-of-body experience. I lost all desire to eat ice cream. Ever. Again. Seriously. People all around me were gorging on six and seven scoop sundaes, dripping in caramel and fudge and whipped cream. Some were indulging in mile-high creations of brownies and ice cream and cookies and ice cream and marshmallows and ice cream and bananas and ice cream. I had the odd sensation that I was participating in ice cream voyeurism. It didn't feel right to watch people eat so much ice cream. I ordered a small root beer float, thinking I would be safe with that choice. Think again. It was visually about 15 inches high, filled with scoop after scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, and foaming over the top with root beer and whipped cream. Every time I would try to take a taste of the ice cream, my straw became a root beer fountain, bubbling root beer up and out and all over me and my surroundings. Never before has my life actually been threatened while enjoying a root beer float. I managed to finish it but just barely. I actually felt so guilty between my eating and observing that I came home and logged 30 minutes on wii fit. I still don't know if that even made a dent. This post is public proof that I promise to remain ice cream and float-free. For-ever. And ever. Amen.

Saturday in the Park...

2009-07-09T07:17:00.000-07:00

It REALLY was the 4th of July!!! We went to the parade, where we saw 'people laughing, people dancing, a man selling ice cream'

Cassidy's manicure...My friend Kim's pedicure...

My great-niece and namesake, Aidan Joy, loving that watermelon...

It was a 'real celebration, waiting for us all.' The holiday barbecue was primo...good food, good friends, good times. 'Can you dig it? Yes, I can!'

Everyone is enjoying glow sticks while we wait for the fireworks to begin...

'I've been waiting such a long time for today.' I wanted to hear my friend Wayne's voice one last time as he announced the Melaleuca Celebration fireworks. Thanks to the beauty of radio and saving things FOREVER, Wayne was right there in the nighttime sky...praising America and making us believe for just a few brief moments that Saturday in the Park is indeed, 'a real celebration.' I'm pretty sure my good friend Wayne was right there with us, watching from above this time, instead of from down below. I think that's why the fireworks glowed just a little bit brighter and little bit longer this year. Happy (late) Birthday, America! Drive safely, Wayne!

It's a Marshmallow World...

2009-06-28T14:11:00.000-07:00

Take one seven year old boy. Help him build a fire. Give him a stick. Stir up the fire. Create some smoke amongst the flames.
Stir it up a little more. Place a marshmallow on the stick. Start to roast it. Catch a few on fire to see how long it takes a marshmallow to melt.

Remove stick and marshmallow from fire. Find some graham crackers. Find some chocolate bars.(We prefer Hershey-brand ONLY)

Layer cracker. marshmallow. candy bar. cracker. You have now invented a delicious, hot schmoe. Try eating your creation without hands. If that doesn't work, use your hand to stretch the marshmallow part as far away from your face as you can. After the last sticky bite, repeat entire process. Again. And again. And again!

A picture is worth a thousand words...

2009-06-28T13:52:00.000-07:00

...so for today, the pictures will do the talking... Proud parents of a soon-to-be missionary...

...one last lunch at Cafe Rio'...famous for pulled pork, salmon tacos, and a beautiful white cinder brick wall for family photo shoots...

...almost there..putting on brave (and happy!) faces...

The sign says it all...minus the part that should say, 'get ready to pull over to the curb, give us your luggage, hug your kid, and send her on her way'. I know some people don't like this method, but for us it was just right. She is ready to get busy. No need to prolong the inevitable.

Pre-tears Eli. This one rips my heart out. The real scene following this was even more emotional.
And off she goes on a new adventure. Ready to share the gospel with the people of Houston. To borrow from the Brothers Gibb, a line from their song "WORDS" which closes this chapter for awhile, as another page turns to a new beginning for our Queen of English, our Grammar Goddess, our own Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen. "Smile an everlasting smile. A smile can bring you near to me." One look at that smile and I know she will always be near. to. me.

How Firm a Foundation...

2009-06-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

When we lived in Utah they announced the building of the Mt. Timpanogos temple. It was an exciting time for everyone in our area. We knew that we would all have a chance to be a part of this amazing experience. Each child in our primary was given a picture of the new temple to place in their rooms and our girls were no exception. All primary children were also given the chance to paint their names on rocks to be buried in the foundation of the temple. Whitney put her name on one rock. Cassidy put her name on another rock. Then we waited and waited while the temple was built. We would take long Sunday drives up the road to see how it was progressing. Whitney would always remind us that her name was a part of this temple; 'her temple.'The day the temple was finished was so exciting. Phillip was able to act as a security guard; I played the organ during one of the open house sessions. Whitney was old enough to sing during the open house with the children from our ward. We took our girls several times to the tours and each time they were in awe with the beauty and spirit they experienced there. When Whitney and I attended the dedication on a cold October afternoon, she expressed a sincere desire to return someday to this temple; 'her temple.'
This week that goal became a reality. We made the trip to Utah to visit her doctor one last time before the mission and took a few hours out of our day to attend the Mt. Timpanogos Temple together. It was such an honor and privilege to be seated next to my beautiful daughter during the session. I'm sure her heart remembered back to a time when she was a young girl, excited to be inside a temple for the first time, awed by it's beauty and touched by the spirit. Now, as she prepares to go forth and serve, I am reminded that, just like that rock with her name on it beneath the Mt. Timpanogos temple, she has a very firm foundation. She has lived her life preparing to go where the Lord wants her to go. She has remained worthy and faithful and firm in her commitment. She will be greatly missed by so many here in Idaho, but the people of Houston will be blessed even greater by her presence. When the days seem long and the work seems hard, I hope she will remember these words: "Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not dismayed, For I am they God and will still give thee aid. I'll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand. Upheld by my righteous hand." Sister Sorensen, go forth and serve. Remember your firm foundation and you'll do just fine!

The Climb

2009-06-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

We just came back from "Hannah Montana: The Movie."

I have a few things to say about this gem of a film.

1. There is NO WAY Brooke Shields would be the mother of Miley Cyrus/Hannah Montana. Especially not married to Billy Ray Cyrus. Just the thought of those two as a couple makes me have a big pain in my achy, breaky heart!

2. Who IS Hannah Montana's fashion consultant and why is she allowed to let her wear such hideous outfits? Stacy and Clinton would have a few words for her and they would all start with "Miley, that is so WHAT NOT TO WEAR!"

3. Usually when you go to a concert and a song is debuted for the first time, not one person in the crowd of thousands would know the words and be able to sing along. That's the magic of Disney. Amazingly everyone could and was singing right along with Hannah/Miley/Hannah. And in even more true Disney-style, everyone in the audience in the theater where we were was also singing along, and swaying to the music. Including us. After all, "There's always gonna be another mountain, I'm always gonna wanna make it move. Always gonna be an uphill battle. Sometime's I'm gonna have to lose. Ain't about how fast I get there. Ain't about what' waitin' on the other side. It's the climb, yeah!"

A Lot of Pomp and A Little Bit of Circumstance...

2009-06-03T07:34:00.000-07:00

Monday was the day. My baby girl graduated from high school. Some people would say, "Two down, one to go!" and be excited that they were two-thirds of the way finished with raising children. Not so for me. Just the thought of the word 'go' makes my throat close and my heart start racing. I even went so far as to look up it's definition in the dictionary. So many interesting things were discovered. It means to 'move away from a place; depart; leave.' DUH. I already knew that.
This word is only going to become more and more familiar at our house as the days approach for

my girls to 'move away, leave, and depart.' In fact, the first sentence in the dictionary to illustrate the use of the word 'go,' was, appropriately, "Go before I cry." I could start an entirely new blog on that word and it's various tenses: 'Cry. Crying. Cried.' However, I was hoping for a few positive definitions so I continued my dictionary research. I think I came up with a few. Okay. Go! ' Go' can also refer to the act of passing from one person to another; to circulate. During her high school years, Cassidy has done a superb job of passing from one person to another. She has circulated amongst many a group of fine friends, both boys and girls. I won't say they haven't had their ups and downs, but in the end, they have all been just right for her. I hope she has been just right for them. Soon she will be going to BYU-I, where she can again practice the art of circulating! Watch out. Once she has crossed your path, you will never want to leave it.

'Go' also means to give entry to; to lead. These future leaders are about to enter a new phase of life. Among them you will find missionaries, magicians and musicians; drama queens and budding authors, heart surgeons, male models and super spys; politicians and great debaters, comedians, architects and interior designers. If watching what they could accomplish over the last three years is any indication, then these Summa Cum Laude graduates will be the hope for a brighter future on our horizon. I wish them the best. I expect the best from them. I know they will give the best they have got. And more. GO, and DO!

When things feel like the world is turning sideways, or even upside down, don't forget that you went to a great deal of work to get this far. The form of 'went' used here defines carrying out an action to a certain point or extent. A wise king once gave this advice, "See that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man (or woman) should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order." Don't run too fast. Go have a little fun. Or a lot of fun. Don't wish too soon for thing that are to come. Enjoy where you are right now. I am confident the prizes that will be won are well worth waiting for! To quote another famous man, 'Oh be wise; what can I say more?"Don't spend too much time looking back. All the memories you have made up to this point will stay with you forever; at least the ones that are worth remembering. Let the heart-aches and heart-breaks disappear from your mind. Open up your heart to all the new possibilities that are waiting for you.

Look forward and look up. The stars are there to guide you. Reach for them. Grab one from time to time. Share your light with others. Please Shine. Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined. And for a final piece of advice, I look to the words from our favorite band, The Oneders. "In every life there comes a time when the dream you dream becomes That Thing You Do!" Go. Do your thing. And do it great! We would expect nothing less.

Codypalooza...A Tribute To the Best of the Best! (With Honors)

2009-05-31T22:13:00.000-07:00

This is Cody. Cody is our friend. For some of us, he is our best friend. (reference to awesome song by QUEEN--minus Adam Lambert) For some of us, he ain't heavy, he's my brother. (reference to song by the Osmonds, including Donny) For some of us, he is the best thing that ever happened to Sunday night card games, garbage removal, and continual laughing at my quirky sense of humor. (sort of reference to song by Gladys Knight and the Pips. She's no Beyonce', but we will make it work for now.) Since Cody will be graduating right along with Cassidy on June 1st, we wanted to let him know just a few of the things that we like about him! (Reference to song by The Romantics).

CS: He makes me laugh. Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Whether we are talking about High School Musical, man hands, or economics jokes, there is no scarcity of laughter between us. Even on my darkest days, he makes me smile. He can turn my frowns upside down.

WS: He is R-E-L-A-B-L-E. He will always be drinking Mountain Dew, the devil's Elixir. He will always be tall, like Micheal Phelps. To quote my cousin, "I know what I like, and I like the tall one!" He will always be wearing good clothes and smelling like Hollister (Ewww!) He will always be giving his opinion, whether it be on American Idol, Heroes, or Zac Efron. He will always be keeping track of his brother. He will also always be keeping track of my sister. Someone needs to while I'm away.

JMS: He is considerate. He has been raised to be the perfect gentleman. If he were any more gentlemanly, we would have to call him Rhett Butler and get him a southern accent. Frankly, my dear, this boy has manners that would make any mother proud. Including adopted mothers.

CS: We enjoy scary movies and tv shows together. I tease him about his crushes on Nicole Kidman and Hayden Panitierre. He tolerates my love of Milo Ventimiglia and Zac Efron. We have similar tastes in music, although he loves Taylor Swift and I love and WILL MARRY David Archuleta. Maybe then I can actually introduce him to the singer of that silly song about Romeo and Juliet and he can stop crying those teardrops on his guitar!

WS: He does things without being asked and without complaining. He is considerate. He cooks us macaroni and cheese. He taught us how to make Ramen in the microwave. He takes out our garbage and picks up our mail. He gives us rides and goes to Wal-Mart for us. He is our own personal concierge. When he is in college, our mother will have to start working around the house again.

JMS: He is a good brother to Tyson, and a surrogate brother to Eli. He plays Nancy Drew with Eli. He gently reminds Eli to do his homework and be nice to his sisters and help his parents. Eli thinks Cody walks on water. A day doesn't go by without Eli asking, "Is Cody coming over today?" When Cody and Cassidy and Whitney are all gone, Eli will probably need an intervention. Or a Mountain Dew. Or a letter from Santa. Ho! Ho! Ho!

CS: "I'll Be There" by The Jackson 5 was written especially for Cody. No matter what is going on in my life, Cody is always there. On days when my world feels like it is falling apart he can make it seem like there is nothing else important at that particular moment except my feelings. On days when I am so happy I feel like I can conquer the world, Cody is right there to support me. I know that no matter what and no matter where, if I just call out his name, "he'll be there."

WS: I can still like him despite the fact that he never really read any of the books he was assigned in his English classes over the last three years EXCEPT the 2 most important ones, To Kill A Mockingbird and Rebecca. Thankfully, if he ever chooses to be a Southern lawyer or a wealthy estate-owning British man, we will know he is prepared.

JMS: He tolerates my quirky sense of humor, and usually understands it as well. Whether we are driving in the car and I blurt out, "To the left, to the left", or shout out "Oh, my gosh, Becky!" he always laughs. I'm not really a comedian, but I sometimes play one at home, and Cody is one of my biggest fans. If he will always remember to laugh his way through life, he, too, will find that humor, is 'irreplaceable'.

Our tribute will now come to an end. It's not much, but it's what we have at 11:58 p.m. on the night before you graduate. Thank you Cody for sharing yourself with us. Thank your family for sharing you, too. Thanks especially to Deedra, for "raising you up"(reference to Josh Groban song) to be such an amazing and awesome young man. You may not know it, but "we are strong when we are on your shoulders. You raise us up to more than we can be."

On Golden Pond...

2009-05-21T18:44:00.000-07:00

Every summer I watch On Golden Pond. Every summer I wish I could run away and live with Norman and Ethel Thayer. I want to pick strawberries down the lane and dive off their private dock. I want to stay up late reading Treasure Island and playing ScRabBLe. I want to catch the big one before it gets away. I want to listen to the loons. I want to be at peace. For your listening pleasure, I am featuring the theme from On Golden Pond. I hope it brings you peace. And I hope you can hear the loons.

The Lusty Month of May...

2009-05-21T18:21:00.000-07:00

Every May we look forward to the blooming of our May trees. We have two of them. One sits right in front of our porch, the other one is on the leftside of our driveway. Once the weather starts to turn warm, the delicate white blossoms begin to appear. As lovely as they are to look at, they are even more heavenly to smell. It's one of those scents that should be bottled and sold, and yet it's nearly impossible to describe. Once you've smelled it, you never forget it. You just inhale it and enjoy it and wait for the day when you can smell it once again. Both Whitney and I tried to come up with descriptions and both of us were (surprise!) at a loss of words. I did, however, find a verse from the song "The Lusty Month of May" from Camelot that almost does justice to the indescribable.

"Whence this fragrance wafting through the air? What sweet feelings does its scent transmute?Whence this perfume floating ev'rywhere? Don't you know it's that dear forbidden fruit!"

***If you really want a hilarious description of the entire month of May and why it would be called 'lusty', GOOGLE the song and read the words in their entirety.

"It's wild! It's gay! Tra la! It's May!"

Last Dance...Last Chance...

2009-05-13T14:58:00.001-07:00

...to wear a big dress to a high school dance. Last chance to stand on these stairs while mom takes just one last picture! Cassidy's Commencement Dance was Saturday Night. Here she is with her strikingly handsome date Mark. We call him Johnny Tsunami because he reminds us of a Hawaiian surfer in a Disney movie. They are good friends and make each other laugh. They love going to Chukar games and drinking Sonic milkshakes. Going to the last dance with Mark was a dream come true for Cassidy, so I guess now we can also call him "Knight in Shining Armor".

It's weird that I am done buying prom dresses. This was the biggest one yet. I have to admit, it was just the right one for Cassidy. Her color, her style. Again, another dream come true. It was quite the night!

Cassidy's BFF Cody took another one of Cassidy's BFF's, Mallory, so it was the perfect group. Earlier in the day they did bowling and ice cream, then went home to spruce up(boys) and beautify (girls). I think they look FAB-U-LOUS! We laughed about the girls' dresses. Cassidy's color was called 'punch' and Mallory's was 'mint julep'. Perhaps it was foreshadowing as to what they would be drinking later in the senior toast. NOT!

This picture makes us laugh! It's pretty tricky stuffing a poofy dress inside a tw0-door car but we managed. They headed off to take pictures at Mark's house, dinner at Applebee's, a walk around the temple, and then to dance the night away. Remember those ridiculous themes from your high school proms? I think my Senior Ball was "Somewhere in the Night" (Barry Manilow song that does nothing for me now, but probably did everything for me in 1980!) The theme of Cassidy's dance was "The Depths of Forever" with an undersea-decoration theme and lots of fog everywhere. Doesn't it make you miss high school for about, oh, 10 seconds?

The famous Skyline High Senior toast...complete with monogrammed glass and flat sprite. Poor Mallory didn't get one since she was from another school. I hope that doesn't mar her memories of one A-MA-ZING evening! Dessert at Cody's afterwards and then the ball was over. Cinderella made it home well past midnight, but before the curfew specified by the not-so-wicked REAL parents. The Knight in Shining Armor drove off into the night in his brown stallion, and Cinderella came home wearing BOTH of her slippers! Her eyes were sparkling, her smile was bright, and of course, we stayed up talking for the rest of the night! Her last dance couldn't have been more perfect. Afterall, happy is what happens when your dreams come true!

You Can't Judge a Book By It's Cover!

2009-05-13T14:48:00.000-07:00

Eli brought a book home from school yesterday. When I took it out of his backpack I was a little suprised by the title. Earrings! by Judith Viorst. "Hmmmm," I said to myself. "Why is my very masculine son bringing home a book about a girl who wants to get her ears pierced?" After further examining the situation by directly asking him, "Eli, WHAT ARE YOU DOING BRINGING HOME A BOOK ABOUT A GIRL WHO WANTS TO HAVE EARRINGS?" he gave me that innocent look of his and said, "It's called Earrings? I thought it was called Earnings!" Thank goodness for the small favors in life. At least I can now go forth with the knowledge that my son doesn't really want to get his ears pierced or wear earrings. Rather, he's interested in making money and learning about earnings. Maybe so he can by me some new earrings!

Workin' Nine to Five...

2009-04-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

...what a way to make a livin'. Barely getting by.

It's all taking and no giving. They just use your mind and they never give you credit. It's enough to drive you CrAZy if you let it!"

In the immortal words of Dolly Parton, I think I've been spending a little too much time lately workin' nine to five. This is a project Eli brought home from 1st grade. Picture on left says, "My sister likes to watch movies." Picture on the right says, "My mom likes to fold things." CRaZy!!!

In the immortal words of Dean Martin...

2009-04-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

...she's going to "Houston...Houston...Houston!" English-speaking. June 24th. Warm weather. No snow. Home of a few great sports teams. The Atros. The Texans. The Rockets. Home of several great universities, including Rice and Baylor. There is a space program there. It's given opportunity to one of the most famous movie quotes of all times, "Houston. We have a problem." It is also home of the 97th temple. And, soon to be home of one of the greatest sister missionaries-to-be in the world. Sister. Sorensen. That's Whitney Sorensen. Or, as we have been saying for the past four days...Whitney! Houston! Whitney! Houston! WHITNEY! HOUSTON!

She Will Be Loved...

2009-04-19T20:44:00.000-07:00

...and she has been for 18 years and 9 days now. Cassidy had her magic birthday on Saturday, April 18th. She turned 18 on the 18th. It only happens once in any one's lifetime. Amidst all the party preparations, my birthday tribute blog to her was delayed. But since she is a once-in-a-lifetime-kind-of-girl, I'm sure that a few days will make no difference. Here are 'only 18' things I love about this 'beauty queen of only 18'...

From the moment she was born, I knew she would be something special. Tiny and helpless, looking a little bit like Yoda, but with quite the mind of her own. She has certainly left her Yoda-like baby wrinkles behind, but has kept the force with her from day one. With Cassidy it is always Do. Or Do Not. There is no try. Whatever she sets her mind to, she does it all the way. A challenge does not scare Cassidy. Looking like Yoda scares Cassidy.
She used to be my quiet, shy girl. I had a friend in Lehi who used to say, 'If you want to find Cassidy, check under Joy's arm, because she will always be tucked right there, safe and sound.' She grew out of her shyness, and away from my arms, but she will always be tucked right next to my heart, safe and sound.

Just like Jan Brady, Cassidy is stuck in the middle as a sister. Unlike Jan Brady, Cassidy can never be heard murmuring, 'Marcia, Marcia, Marcia' about Whitney. She worships the ground Whitney walks on and wants to be just like her. Before Eli came along, she was the baby, and enjoyed that spot immensely. I think it got to be a little lonely for her and one Christmas she asked Santa to bring her a baby brother. It took a little longer than any of us expected, but we are always thankful that her wish came true. There is no better friend than a sister, and there is no better sister than Cassidy.

Laughter is her best medicine. Her laugh is infectious. The minute you hear her laugh, you want to experience the exact same emotion she is feeling. I could listen to her laugh all day. And some days I do!
"Outside of a dog, a book is a man's best friend. Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read." Cassidy doesn't have a dog, and she's afraid of the dark, but she LOVES to read. In our family, books are a part of you from day one, and Cassidy is no exception. Her taste runs towards romance and mystery, and anything in between. It has been a blessing to have not one, but two daughters to discuss books with. They read my recommendations, and I read theirs. If you want to find Cassidy in the summer, check our front porch first...she's usually there with a good book in hand and a smile on her face.
Cassidy wears her heart on her sleeve. Not unlike the Tinman in The Wizard of Oz, she is extremely tender-hearted, and a great respecter of other people's feelings. Her heart is very perceptive to other people's hurts. She is the first one to apologize, and the last one to leave a sad friend behind. She knows when someone needs a little extra attention, or a little more love. She will be there in good times, and she will be there in bad times. And if you are lucky enough to have found a special place in her heart, you can rest assured that you will be in her heart forever.
Once she grew out of her shyness, Cassidy discovered the art of making friends. She is always surrounded by friends. She has a way of making everyone feel good about themselves, and everyone loves being around Cassidy. When Cassidy goes away, I will miss her desperately, and I will miss her friends almost as much. Almost.

She has P-A-S-S-I-O-N! She's passionate about oh so many things. Olympic swimmers, U.S. Open and Wimbledon winners, David Archuleta, glistening vampires, and yes, even Mr. 17 Again himself, Zac Efron. When Cassidy likes someone, or something, she likes them all the way. She cheers for them LOUD! She supports them at concerts and in the theaters and in basements full of friends wishing she wasn't quite as passionate with her cheering. All I can say is, "You Go, Girl". If you love something, let the whole world know!

She wouldn't be a part of our family if she wasn't a lover of music. We have introduced her to car singing and the Beatles and the Beach Boys. All by herself she discovered Michael Buble' and Josh Groban. And, not wanting to be satisfied to just sing along with the radio, she actually went one step further and developed a beautiful singing voice. Many a compliment have been paid to her for her solos in choir, in church, and for various high school musicals which she participates in. Her highlight this year was a solo in NIGHT ON BROADWAY, presented by the Idaho Falls Youth Arts Centre. Her rendition of 'I Could Have Danced All Night" brought the house down. I see great things in her future and thank Heavenly Father every day for bestowing her with such a beautiful voice and such a humble willingness to share this talent with those around her.
She is a connoisseur of all fine foods...macaroni and cheese, Ramen, Olive Garden Fettucine, and my own Penne pasta with pesto sauce. Do you sense a carb-o-holic here?
They say mothers give their daughters virtues and vices. Hopefully I have shared more of the former and less of the latter. We do share a passion for a certain liquid refreshment. Coke. Straight Up. With Ice. No lemon. No lime. No D-I-E-T! Have a Coke and a smile!

She is a bit of a 'drama queen' but not in a bad sense. When she was little she would spend hours with Whitney putting on plays and shows. She starred in a 1st grade production at Meadow Elementary in Lehi, and her first role here in Idaho Falls was that of a cow in the chorus of 'Beauty and the Beast' with the Missoula Children's Theater Company. She has had parts in many musicals, and a supporting actress role this year in her high school production of "The Univited." Appropriately, she played a psychic actress and conducted a pretty believable seance. So, if you ever need someone to conjure up dead spirits, sing a broadway tune, or play a beautiful bovine, Cassidy is your ACTRESS!
Speaking of acting, Cassidy is also a lover of movies. Anything with Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Doris Day, Rock Hudson, or Cary Grant. Anything involving superheroes, like Batman or Superman or Batman. If it will make her cry, she'll watch it more than once. Pride and Prejudice. You've Got Mail. A Walk to Remember. Charly. If it involves handsome men playing sports, she's all over it. Miracle. Remember the Titans. Glory Road. The Sandlot. The Rookie. If it makes her laugh, it will make you laugh. Napoleon Dynamite. Meet the Deedles. 17 Again. If it scares her to death, she'll watch it only once. The Village. Signs. The Others. If there's popcorn, she'll watch anything! (Did I mention anything with Batman?)
She has a flair for fashion. Shoes. Nice Clothes. Jewelry. One of the first car songs she ever learned to sing along with was, "These Boots Are Made For Walking"...and that's just what she'll do. Buy enough pairs of boots and shoes to walk all over you!

She is also a collector of purses. And things that go inside of purses. Lipgloss, mascara, i-pod, cellphone, love notes, gum, money, wallet, driver's license, Personal Progress Book (only for a few more weeks) the latest book she is reading (The Christopher Killer--Alayne Ferguson), pomegranate lotion...this list could go on and on...but as long as it's all in a purse, she's ready to rock-and-roll!

She has a strong testimony of the gospel. She loves to study the scriptures and share what she knows with others. She is a shining example of choosing the right, even when it sometimes takes her out of the crowd and leaves her home alone. It takes great courage to make hard choices, and Cassidy has shown great courage on more than one occasion. She knows what she belives and she lives it every day. I learn daily from her example and I feel privileged that we have been blessed to raise such a spiritually strong daughter.

She loves to learn. She likes the challenge of discovering new things, whether it be AP Government, AP Literature, or even Computer Applications, she puts her heart into her studies and manages to always come out on top. There's no need to sing "If I Only Had A Brain" about Cassidy. We are proud of her accomplishments in school and the example she has set for Eli to follow. When she graduates on June 1, it will be at the top of her class!

She has great vision. Her eyesight is good, but her vision for the future is even better. She knows how to set goals and she knows how to achieve them. There is nothing in the world that Cassidy can't do. Once she sets her mind to it, we know she will do it. And do it well. Because from day one, it has always been: Do. Or Do Not. There is no try.

Happy (Late) 18th Birthday, Cassidy. May you always look beyond the rainbow to find your dreams. Just follow the Yellowbrick road and you will get to wherever you want to be. Just don't forget your ruby slippers. And always remember...There's no place like home!

Oooh...I hear laughter in the rain...

2009-04-17T14:24:00.000-07:00

Isn't it great to be a boy? Seven comes with all sorts of fun. Learning. Exploring. Experimenting. Laughing. Lots of Laughing. The other day it was pouring down rain and the boys were outside getting soaked to the bone. It was our first real rain storm of the spring season and it brought with it a seven year-old boy's favorite pastime. Playing with worms! Worms in the gutter and on the grass. Worms on the driveway. Worms on my car and in my son's hands. They spent almost an hour chasing each other with the worms, discovering what happens when a worm gets cut in half, and even throwing them at each other. If Eli ever needs a part-time job maybe he can dig nightcrawlers and sell them to fishermen. My brother and I did it one summer and earned quite a bit of money. That was years ago, though, and I haven't touched another worm since. Now it's Eli's turn to touch those worms. Don't you just love the Circle of Life?

As 99 Red Balloons Go By...

2009-04-14T17:35:00.000-07:00

...I want to wish a special lady a very happy birthday. Today my Grandma Ricks turns 99. WOW! Somedays I can't even imagine what it feels like to turn 47, and yet she has doubled my years and added another lucky seven to that number. She is one of the women I most admire in my life. She raised a family of 8...three girls and 5, yes count them, 5 boys. My grandpa was a farmer and she was the gardener. She grew beautiful flowers and even more wonderful children. She was trained as a nurse. If I ever have health questions about my kids, she is the first one I call. She has climbed Table Rock numersous times, a feat I have yet to accomplish. I guess if she can do it, I should give it a try. Probably before I'm 64. For sure before I'm 99. She is very spunky and has a definite opinion on everything, from what to eat or not eat for breakfast to how many quilts should be on her bed. She is a bit of a health food fanatic, and is always willing to share her knowledge on the 'latest and greatest' healing herbs and potions. She would have made a great teacher at Hogwarts! She is a lover of animals, which made the farm the perfect place for her to live. Up until two years ago she was still taking care of the cows and their calves and feeding her collection of stray cats...24 in all. Whenever I would go and visit we would sit in the yard with her Book of North American Birds and see how many we could identify. If she went with us on car trips she could always be called upon to identify the flowers that bloomed along the side of the road. My favorite was and still is, 'Indian Paintbrush'. She would also bring snacks to enjoy. Usually saltines and Swiss cheese. Now that's a memory. Most moms don't let kids bring saltines in the car because of the mess, but my grandma never cared much if we made a mess. We were too busy looking at the flowers. I hope her day is fabulous. Just like her. To my Grandma Ricks I say, "Here it is, a red balloon. I think of you and let it go."

A tisket, a tasket...

2009-04-11T10:31:00.000-07:00

...I love what's in my basket! Every year it is my tradition to have a Dove chocolate truffle egg. I love them. They make me happy. When we lived in Utah I would always buy one package with 5 eggs. One for Phillip, one for Whitney, one for Cassidy, and two for me. I would eat one on Easter and save the other one in a secret hiding place for later. The year we moved to Idaho was no exception. Easter was in April and we moved in July. We lived at my parents house for 2 1/2 months until our house was done being built. Right after we moved in, the girls started school. That left me HOME ALONE. On a particularly bad day, when I was feeling a little sad and a lot sorry for myself I had a revelation. Where was the other Dove chocolate truffle egg? I checked my drawer for the secret hiding place. There, in the very back, was my life saver for the day. Dove. Chocolate. Truffle. Egg. It brings a smile to even the saddest of moments. Years later, we still have Dove chocolate truffle eggs in our basket. Only now, I buy two package of five. One for Phillip. One for Whitney. One for Cassidy. One for Eli. That leaves six. For me. I knew those math skills would come in handy some day. Now I just need to find a few new hiding places and I am set for life!

Springtime IS Coming...

2009-04-06T15:01:00.000-07:00

"Daffodils" (1804)
I WANDER'D lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills,When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils;Beside the lake, beneath the trees,Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.
Continuous as the stars that shine
And twinkle on the Milky Way,They stretch'd in never-ending line
Along the margin of a bay:Ten thousand saw I at a glance,Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.
The waves beside them danced; but they
Out-did the sparkling waves in glee:A poet could not but be gay,
In such a jocund company:I gazed -- and gazed -- but little thoughtWhat wealth the show to me had brought:
For oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;And then my heart with pleasure fills,And dances with the daffodils.
By William Wordsworth (1770-1850).

When You Wish Upon a Star...

2009-03-30T17:13:00.000-07:00

...Makes no difference who you are. Anything your heart desires...will come to you.
Even if it's just a photo of the family with Goofy...not many characters out for taking pictures with this time, but that's okay. Our family is 'character' enough for some fine photo ops...Browse on!

Autopia...only 45 minutes in line and you become a licensed driver. Sunglasses complete the look and fulfill the need...the need for speed!

Girls, get your eyes on the road! Stop looking at all the good-looking drivers behind you! Notice how Phillip is flashing the peace sign? We find that drivers are safer when they keep BOTH hands on the wheel, so maybe he should stop playing around and start driving!

In case you haven't guessed by now, we took a few days of spring break for a quick family vacation to the "Happiest" (and most crowded) place on earth...DISNEYLAND! Whitney skipped class for two days and we headed down to LA, courtesy of Jet Blue Airways and Phillip's checking account. It was nice to be together, out of the Idaho/Utah weather. It was 78 degrees every day we were there. I could really get used to that.
There were a lot of people there, but even so, the longest line was for the new NEMO submarines, and even then it was only about 55 minutes. It felt like the ride took longer than actually standing in line! (Obviously, not my favorite!)
Here are just a few highlights of the trip...there really were too many to document until I make my movie.

I love the parades at Disneyland and this year was no exception. While we were in California Adventure they had a High School Musical 3 Parade. Guess who was chosen out of the crowd to be a guest dancer? It's like a "Where's Waldo" game. Look for the hottie in the white boa and dark glasses doing her best Beyonce' moves and you will have found...MISS JOY! My girls were probably embarassed, but I doubt it. The crowd loved me, and I would do it again in a heartbeat! ( I wonder if they are looking for an over-45 woman to join their cast?)

(Side note: I'm sad to hear Zac Efron has dropped out of the FOOTLOOSE re-make. He must be suffering from a head injury or something to remove himself from the biggest summer movie revival in 2010. However, that being said, check out the boy in red pants and hat...We decided he could EASILY become what Zac Efron decided not to be...Kevin Bacon's predecessor. Don't forget I made this prediction when it happens!)

Eli was quite the brave boy on the trip. Last time we went he was only 3 and too small for most of the rides. This time he went on almost everything, even though he was a bit apprehensive while waiting in line. The only way we got him on the Indiana Jones ride was because the boy in the front seat of our car was wearing a creepy YODA backpack. We all reminded Eli that 'the force would be with us' and he hopped right in. After it was over, we took their picture. Two words to describe Eli's end-of-the-ride-reaction. ADrenaLinE. RuSH!

The obligatory photo in front of the Sleeping Beauty's Castle. This was day 3. We had an early morning and did ALL of Fantasyland in less than one hour! That is what we call a MIRacLE!
I'm not a fan of spinning rides, but you can always drag me on the teacups at least once! Cassidy and I are going a little crazy waiting for those cups to start spinning. After riding them I have decided that maybe what makes me dizzy on this ride is not the spinning, but that organ music playing "A Very Merry Un-Birthday" over and over and over!

No one can resist the "Flying Dumbos" and we are no exception. When the girls were little, we actually stood in line for an hour and a half waiting to get on, and right before it was our turn, Cassidy needed to use the bathroom. BAD. I told her she would have to wait. Then I spent the entire ride praying that it wouldn't be the day she didn't make it. End of story. All went well. This year while waiting in line for the "Storybook Boats" another little girl needed to go. BAD. The nice lady operating the ride sweetly pulled the family members aside, sent the mom and the daughter on their way to the nearest restroom and promised to let them back on again without having to start standing in line again. One more reason why I love Disneyland. They are always thinking of new and innovative ways to remain "The Happiest Place on Earth"!" Notice Cassidy's live action shot from the "Flying Dumbos". Her hair is flying everywhere, but I'm sure she is thinking, "Dang, sure glad I don't have to go to the bathroom while I am flying over Disneyland!"

Every photographer has that perfect moment when they want to capture the perfect photo. For me, this was it. I am in a Dumbo ahead of Whitney and Eli, holding my camera backwards and clicking it without looking through the view finder. I was pretty sure most of the pictures would not turn out, but this one captures the feeling of the ride. Whitney is screaming, "Fly, Dumbo, Fly", and Eli is laughing so hard he needed to go to the bathroom as soon as we got off! BAD!

I really did go on vacation with my family. I just took most of the pictures from one end of the camera while they all stood on the other end. Here is our farewell shot from the park. They are standing in front of the Celebration Balloons...I am standing in front of them, photographing the family in front of the Celebration Balloons. Celebrate good times, come on! It's a celebration!

That night, we had a pre-birthday dinner celebration for Phillip at Joe's Crab Shack. He was turning 49 the next day. (Count our fingers!) Even though it was Phillip's party, we all had a blast!Cassidy got to be a guest "Cotton Eye Joe" dancer, Whitney enjoyed "London Style" fish and chips, I had the deluxe bucket of crab, shrimp, sausage, red potatoes, and corn on the cob, Eli ate NOTHING but spent his time doing crossword puzzles, and everyone in the restaurant sang "Happy Birthday" to Phillip while he wore a sombrero! Feliz Cumpleanos, Senor Philipe'. 49--Not such a bad place to be! After all, "When you wish upon a star, your dreams come true!"

Art for Art's Sake...

2009-03-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

Day One of our California Adventure takes us to the BYU Museum of Art. Whitney wanted Eli to see the "Walter Wick: Games, Gizmos and Toys in the Attic" display. He is the artist who makes all the I-spy books. First we took a tour of the gallery featuring various pictures of Christ. One was titled "Picture of Christ." Our seven-year old resident art critic was quick to point out, "That is not a picture of Christ, it's a portrait." Next, we visited the American Dreams display, where Eli proceeds to crack up over a picture which I think was of a girl in a circus, simply titled, "Baby Ruth, Fat Girl". The Walter Wick display was amazing and interesting and fun. We recommend this for anyone living close to the Provo area. Eli's favorite part of the museum would have to be the display of Dan Steinhilber, a modern artist, who has no titles for any of his work, since they are all titled, "Untitled". There were giant garbage bags blown up and tied together like pipes, resin chairs stacked upside down on each other, an entire wall with packets of orange duck sauce stapled to it, and Eli's personal favorite, a room filled with packing peanuts and a fan. From time to time the fan would go off and the packing peanuts would fly all over the place. His review of the Dan Steinhilber display was priceless. "I like the interpretation of modern art. I get it. It's fascinating." Including the bottles of Mountain Dew-colored Diet Coke in the gift shop. I wanted to buy some for a friend until I realized, this, too, was "Untitled".

Spaced Out...

2009-03-30T13:54:00.000-07:00

Apparently I am the LAST person on the planet to discover that you no longer are required to leave two spaces after a period when typing. My kids correct me when I do it, Phillip said he learned years ago that you weren't supposed to do it anymore, and now a person on a Sunday morning news program has also reminded me that it's not proper to leave two spaces after a period. I am dismayed and disappointed in our new society...one that abandons all the 'old rules' of proper "typetiquette" only to convenience those who text and twitter. I'm embarassed to think what my business teacher Mrs. Scott would say. She was the one who drilled in my head in those early typing classes, "period. space. space. period. space. space." Oh, well, here goes: out with the old, in with the new. Period. Space.

Born to Hand Jive Baby!

2009-03-20T09:32:00.000-07:00

Saturday night when I got home from the play Eli was waiting up for me. It was pretty late so I knew it must be important. "Mom, Mom, I want to show you something right now! Turn on the 'Hand Jive' music!" We popped in the cd and let it rip. Before I knew it, my seven year old was doing a dance from Grease. It cracked me up to watch how intent he was on the moves. He concentrates so hard that he closes his eyes. I guess he went to enough rehearsals that he memorized it! Watch out ladies, 'cause he's going to knock you all off your feet in a few years!

Grease...IS the Word!

2009-03-19T22:06:00.001-07:00

Cassidy's high school production of Grease has ended. It is her last year to participate in our school district's musical. They have been learning music, blocking scences, and practicing choreography since January. All the hard work finally came to fruition. The play ran 4 nights, and sold out 3 of those evenings. I helped out with t-shirt orders, and was also in charge of the pre-show. We had kids participating in hula hoop and hand jive contests before the show. Not to brag, but it ROCKED THE HOUSE every night and got the audience in the mood for the show.Cassidy was a member of the chorus and also had the part of a cheerleader. Mid-show we discovered much to her delight, that due to perfect 50's hair and a permanent smile, she looked a lot like a life-size Barbie. Coincidentally, she had a friend in the cast who bore a striking resemblance to a life-size Ken doll. So, for your viewing pleasure, here are Ken and Barbie in all their studliness and beauty. PHOTO ONE: Jock Ken and Cheerleader Barbie. Don't they just make you want to head to a football game and scream, "Fight! Rydell! Fight!"

PHOTO TWO: Prom Date Ken and Barbie. All dressed up and ready for "Shakin' at the High School Hop!" Dig the cool tux and authentic two-tone shoes.

PHOTO THREE: Casual wear Ken and Poodle-skirt Barbie, along with leather-jacket Danny Zucko. He may be a rebel, but he still enjoys hanging with the best-looking couple in school! Tune in next week for 'going steady' Barbie and Ken. Photos to follow.

***Attention. This is not the real Barbie and Ken, but they play them on tv!

Lick it Good!

2009-03-19T14:25:00.000-07:00

Today is the second decent day we have had in months. Not exactly warm, but the sun is shining, there is no wind, and (hooray!) the snow is melting. I have a few little crocus peeping up in my garden. I'm counting the days until they start to bloom. However, I really know that summer is just around the corner when I have three little neighbor children standing on my porch, ringing my doorbell. When I answer, they chime in simultaneously, "Do you still have those popsicles in your freezer, 'cause we want some!" Sadly, I had to tell them, "No, not yet!" But now that summer is coming, I will definitely be gearing up for my role as 'coolest' mom on the block! Popsicles are a cheap price to pay to maintain that status quo!

My New Biggest Fear...

2009-03-08T16:55:00.000-07:00

It used to be that I was afraid of clowns. They are creepy. They creep me out. I don't ever want to be stuck alone in an alley with any of them. Just recently, I have discovered something else that creeps me out...

MANNEQUINS!

Old Navy's latest ad campaign features mannequins...not just the mute type, but mannequins who also talk and have personal profiles. I have never liked mannequins. They have the perfect figures, they get to wear sweet clothes, and they don't have to do laundry or load the dishwasher. If they have a pain in their arm, they just remove it and get a new one. The Old Navy mannequins apparently have names, relationship status', and fashion styles all their own. What will they think of next? If I am ever in an Old Navy and Amy the mannequin starts telling me what style I should wear, I think I will have to run out of that store as fast as I can...maybe to a Jack-in-the-Box, where a creepy clown head can tell me I should try their new flatbread sandwiches!

Blueberries for Joy...

2009-03-06T14:38:00.000-08:00

I bought some blueberry muffins today at the grocery store. I just love blueberry muffins! They make me smile. They also remind me of a boy I got acquainted with while we lived in Lehi. One school year I was hired as a long-term substitute in a fourth grade class while the teacher was on maternity leave. For three months, I was going to be the teacher. It was a great class. I loved all of the kids. Including Bobby and Jared. Bobby and Jared were the so-called 'trouble-makers'; the boys who most people thought didn't have a chance to amount to much of anything. They were dirty; they needed baths. Their learning skills were way below grade level. They were rough and tough; none of the other kids liked them, but they liked each other, and stuck together like glue. I've always had a soft spot for the underdogs and decided from day one that I was somehow going to reach Bobby and Jared. I wanted them to feel special and loved and important; something I was pretty sure wasn't happening at home. On my first day in class I told one fact about myself; each day I was going to share something new. At the end of the week, we would have a review. I figured it was a good way for the class to get to know me. I shared that I had two girls, that I liked old movies, that I wanted to swim with dolphins and that I loved blueberry muffins. For the next three months, I tried to bring Bobby and Jared into the class more; I read Charlotte's Web with them at recess, made sure they got chosen for teams, helped them with their math and spelling, and gave them a little extra motherly advice in the hygiene department. We were becoming fast friends. The other students started to include them more, and their grades began to get better. On the day before my last day in the class, I noticed that Jared had something in his desk that he kept looking at. At the end of class, he shyly made his way up to my desk and handed me a crumpled up napkin. As I opened it up, a tear came to my eye. My heart got stuck in my throat and I couldn't speak. There, in the napkin, was half of a store-bought blueberry muffin. Knowing the circumstances of Jared's family, this was probably one of the first, if any, times they had been able to buy muffins, and he was sharing a portion with me. Such a large sacrifice from such a small boy. I wanted to make a difference in his life, and instead, he made one in mine, reminding me to always appreciate the little things in life, like making new friends and sharing a blueberry muffin. I keep this experience tucked in my heart, and every once in a while, it comes back. Especially when I eat a blueberry muffin. I hope that wherever Jared is, he remembers the lady who loved those muffins, and loved him, too.

She's Got the Look...

2009-03-04T15:15:00.001-08:00

We took a quick trip to Utah this weekend to attend a funeral for my brother-in-law. While we were there we got to spend a few hours with Whitney. It was a pleasant addition to an otherwise sad situation. Our days with her are numbered, but she is SO ready. Her eyes are glowing. Her countenance is radiant. One more interview with the Stake President. Someone will hit send on a computer. The papers will be submitted. The waiting game will begin. My daughter is going on a mission! I'm going to be the mother of a missionary! Go figure!

She's a super freak...she's super freaky!

2009-02-18T16:20:00.001-08:00

Eli has a friend Evelyn. She came over for a play-date today. She is tiny and petite, like a pixie. Eli is tall and lanky, like a grade school Jimmy Stewart. Evelyn's father is a cancer doctor and she has a fabulous vocabulary. I love to have conversations with her because they are so grown up and funny. Today she made me laugh. She and Eli were talking in the car on the way home from school. This is the conversation. "Eli I like you a lot because you are freakishly tall. Not in a bad way, but in a really good way." Later on they were playing on the wii. Tennis, I think. Again, I hear Evelyn say, "Eli, you are freakishly good at Tennis. Not in a bad way, but in a really good way." And so it goes. We start the girl-likes-boy-cycle all over. Only this time, it's not the boys liking my girls. It's a girl liking my boy. Freakishly weird. Not in a bad way, but in a really good way.

Oh, the things you can know when you know where to go!

2009-02-18T15:53:00.000-08:00

Whitney hooked me up with this cool website. Check it out. rickwalton.com/wordplay/initials.htm.
You can look up your initials and see what famous people have the same letters as you. It's actually quite revealing. Here are my "J" "S" twins and my connections to all of them. Jacklyn Smith...my favorite of Charlie's Angels...she's southern, she's beautiful, she's graceful, she has a clothing line at K-Mart. Jane Seymour...she's Britsih, she's Dr. Quinn, she's the beautiful love interest of Christopher Reeves (SUPERMAN) in Somewhere in Time...she also designs (ugly) heart jewelry for Kay Jewelers. Jean Smart...again, southern, beautiful, smart, and sassy. She played Charlene,the Elvis-loving secretary on Designing Women. In my dreams I'm all of those things and so much more. Johann Strauss and John Phillip Sousa also share my initials, giving way to my love of all music, including American marches and Viennese waltzes. John Schneider. One of the good ole' boys on Dukes of Hazzard. This will explain my desire to drive fast red cars with the name "General Lee" painted on the side. I also think he sings 'Meet Me In Montana' with Marie Osmond. I could be wrong there, but that would give me a connection with Marie, who then connects me to Donny, and we all know how I feel about Donny! (Yes, I still call it Puppy Love!) Jimmy Swaggart and Joseph Smith. Both have religious connections. One I believe in. The other one I don't. James Spader. An actor who usually plays someone scary and creepy, thus explaining my fear of being stalked by a greasy weirdo. Joseph Stalin. I'm not so proud of this one, but it might just explain my secret desire to be a world dictator, at least in the privacy of my own home. John Steinbeck. Grapes of Wrath. Dust Storm. Probably why I fear them...and poverty. My favorite letter twin I have saved for the end. Jimmy Stewart. Debonair. Classic. Quiet. Unassuming. One of the last quintescential leading men.

With initials like "J" "S" who can go wrong. After all, "It's a Wonderful Life."

The Heart is Lonely Hunter...

2009-02-14T22:24:00.000-08:00

...it's also great for weaponry, if it is a candy conversation heart.

Tonight I had 8 teenagers over for a pre-Sweetheart Dance Dinner. I had planned a very festive decor theme, all around those nasty candies. They may not taste good, but they are very cute in votives and on tables. (Thanks Kim J.) I was very proud of how well it was all looking...very Martha Stewart and such. After dinner is when the fun started. Phillip and I were in the basement when I heard screams from above and feet running across the wood floor. Arriving first on the scence, I was witness to a candy conversation hearts food fight to beat all food fights. Conversation hearts were EVEryWhERE...the FlooR, the CeiLinG...in the DrinKS, down the DreSSEs...between the cUshIons on the CouCH...I'ave decided things haven't changed much since my 8th grade experience with David Gambles. Boys still like to throw candy hearts. Only difference...I don't think anyone got a 'be mine' heart tonight. Maybe it was more like a 'let me hit you in the eye' heart or 'these don't really dissolve all that well in strawberry lemonade' or my favorite...'if we leave enough of these on the floor, the hostess will have to spend hours picking them up!' All in a good night's fun.. I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. And for the record, we decided the new heart phrase for 2009 should be 'facebook me'!

Love is a Many Splendored Thing...

2009-02-13T10:18:00.000-08:00

...especially if you've got a 'chick flick' to watch and your favorite guy by your side. Bring on the Red Vines, M-n-M-'s, plain and peanut, Milk Duds, Mike and Ike's, Junior Mints and plenty of popcorn. Here are Joy and Phil's Valentine's Day movie recommendations.

Who can reisist Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks in "You've Got Mail'? Her hair is perfect, she owns a bookstore, the dialogue is witty and clever, Tom Hanks plays the bad-guy-turned-good-guy-turned-love-interest to a tee, and it reminds us that 'daisies are the friendliest flowers.' Everytime I see the end I get goosebumps. By the time Somewhere Over the Rainbow starts playing and she sees him coming towards her with his dog, I am crying like a baby. She says, "I wanted it to be you. I wanted it to be you so badly." And in true big-screen hero style he wipes away her tears, and says, "Don't cry, Shopgirl." Of course, they kiss in a field of flowers and life is once again perfect for Meg and Tom. Perfection on the screen. Every time.

"High Society" starring Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and the lovely and timeless Grace Kelly. Great music...beautiful clothes...mansions and swimming pools...and the chance to go sailing with Bing Crosby on the 'True Love'. This movie is classic. It never gets old, only better with time. Kind of like wine, but I wouldn't know. I don't drink wine. Try talking with Grace Kelly's 'noveau riche' accent for a few minutes. It always makes me feel so much classier than I really am. It's a good dream. I mean, who doesn't want to be like 'Grace Kelly'? (See playlist song #20)

My all time favorite movie for Valentine's Day is Return to Me with David Duchovney, Minnie Driver, and the hilarious Bonnie Hunt, David Alan Steer, and James Belushi. This is one amazing ensemble cast. Too many funny lines to quote, although I will share, "Grace has Bob's dead wife's heart" and "Look, kids, Sammy Sosa!" Again, this movie makes me laugh and cry and rejoice in good old-fashioned love stories. Don't forget about those funny old men, including the late, great Carroll O' Connor. Their discussions concerning Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra ("Frankie never hit anybody. His people did, but he did not") crack me up every time. Plus this movie always makes me want to go bowling in a cool bowling shirt. What's more romantic than bowling? I just can't think of anything! And the piece de resistance...a Soundtrack TO DIE FOR! You haven't lived until you've heard Dean Martin sing "Return to Me"...it makes you want to fly to Italy right now and ride a cool bike with a nun!

Out of five stars, I give it 10***********

*Also recommended...Sleepless in Seattle, While You Were Sleeping, Pillow Talk, The Thrill of It All, Send Me No Flowers, Sabrina (either version) and That Touch of Mink!

Cookies and Cakes TO DIE FOR...

2009-02-10T19:02:00.000-08:00

Check it out...bakerella.blogspot.com...My friend Sandy just turned me onto this site with the coolest red velvet oreos, cute heart cookies out of Oreo Cakesters and the piece de resistance, and red velvet cake shaped like a box of chocolates, complete with the decorated candies on top! No photos for this blog...check out the real one for all the yummy details.!

Red. Velvet. Cupcakes. To. Die. For.

2009-02-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

Talk about a romantic treat for

Valentine's Day. I hope I can save one or two for my sweetheart...

(Just wondering...what do skulls and Valentine's Day have in common? Any thoughts on this?)

Don't wear your heart on your sleeve...put it in your mouth!

2009-02-07T14:43:00.000-08:00

One more short post about those dumb candy hearts. Besides tasting like chalk, I have found the need for them to update their messages and bring them into the 21st century. I don't mean phrases like, 'text me', or 'nuf' said' or even just plain 'word'. I'd much rather read things that stimulate my mind and make me think. Phrases like, 'meth. not even once.' Or how about 'he's just not that into you.' For all the single ladies, 'if you liked it then you should'a put a ring on it' would be appropriate. Maybe 'yes, we can' in honor of our new President. Or perhaps "yes, Mitt will' in honor of my next president. Just incase you'd forgotten, another popular message of love this valentine's season could be 'bongs are wrong' in honor of the fallen hero Michael Phelps. Maybe Rafael Nadal will send a special 'better luck next time' to Roger Federer. For the circus freaks in our lives, how about 'you don't do that to another carnie, fella'. And for my gal-pal Beyonce, maybe a heart with a 'thumbs up' sign for her style and grace at the Inagural Ball. To Michelle Obama I would send, 'find a better designer'. And to Whitney and Cassidy and Cody, special hearts just for them, saying, 'to the left, to the left'.

"This is Dedicated to the One I Love..."

2009-02-06T16:13:00.000-08:00

Just for Phillip...Just Because...Playlist Songs #1-17

"I Want to Make it With You"...

2009-02-06T12:48:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again. Time to break out those famous 'conversation hearts'. They bring back such romatic memories. When I was in the 3rd grade, I had a crush on David Gambles. He was tall and blond, with curly hair; the Greg Brady of I.T. Stoddard Elementary. I remember hoping with all the love in my heart that I would get a special word heart from him attached to my valentine on class party day. Something romantic like, "love you", or "my girl", or even, "be mine". I guess it wasn't meant to be. Not only did he not give me any candy with my card, but if I remember correctly, the card was something dumb like a gorilla eating a banana, or a dog wearing a bandana. The years pressed on. 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th grades passed without any indication that he liked me. Except for the fact that he pulled my braids, took my pencils in English, and ocassionally tried to push in front of me in the lunch line, I didn't think he even knew I was alive. UNTIL...Valentine's Day...8th Grade. I had a new red jumper to wear to the dance. I was looking fine. A bit nervous, having never actually stayed for a school dance, but hoping the prospects would be rewarded. At first it was awkward, all the inexperienced 7th and 8th graders standing around, watching the 9th graders and wishing we were just 'that cool'. My friends and I nervously giggled away our disappointment about not being asked to dance, but secretly hoping that one 'special guy' would look our way. We knew our eyes would meet across the crowded floor, our feet would float off of the ground, and we would be whisked away into the loveliness of that 'first' slow dance. Well, don't get your hopes up. It didn't happen for me that day. (*** see side note post at end.) Mostly David Gambles and Mike Haddock kept coming around, teasing us, and throwing those silly coversation hearts our way. It wasn't what I expected for my first Valentine's Dance, but it was fun in a pre-pubescent kind of way. I'll never forget the last song they played that day. It was "I Want to Make it With You" by Bread. (***see Playlist song #10) As we were leaving the gym to go home, a red-faced David Gambles walked up to me, grabbed my hand, put in a conversation heart, and sprinted off, Napolean Dynamite style. I opened my hand, only to find the sweetest heart ever...just two words, "Be Mine." (I saved it until I graduated from high school!) Short of riding me off into the sunset on a white honeymoon steed, no Valentine's Day could've been sweeter for an awkward 12 year old girl who was taller than all of the boys in school. Except of course, for David Gambles, my blond Greg Brady.

***my offical first 'slow' dance came later that year at the 'End of School' dance. David and I were 'way over' by then and I was more into a baseball player by the name of Jay Callahan. When our eyes met across the crowded floor, my feet floated off the ground as he whisked me into the loveliness of that magic moment. Elton John's "Your Song" (See Playlist song#11) provided the background. Perfection on a dance floor. That's what memories are made of.

Save the Cheerleader...Save the World!

2009-02-04T20:24:00.000-08:00

Cassidy is getting ready to perform in her high school production of Grease. She has been cast as one of the Rydell High Cheerleaders. You go, girl! Work that crowd! I find it interesting how much uniforms can change in 50 years! No cheerleader at our school dresses like this! I hope Cassidy and her 'cheer friends' can still perform their stunts in these skirts!

Extra! Extra! Google All About It!

2009-02-02T20:07:00.000-08:00

Have you ever 'Googled' yourself? Don't be embarrassed to say yes. We've all done it. I find that my name twin is a famous author. But if you go to the second page and scroll all the way down, you'll actually find the real me. Joy Sorensen. Also a published author, with the article "Reclaiming Monday Nights", published in THE ENSIGN. It's probably my one and only claim to fame. I'm just excited to find that it comes up on page 2, not page 757!

Only four words...

2009-02-01T18:57:00.000-08:00

Why, Michael Phelps, why?

"If You Voted For Me..."

2009-01-29T17:14:00.000-08:00

I cannot let this Beyonce' thing go. But when the media keeps feeding me with more fuel...I just have to add it to the fire. Click on the Barack video. Watch it. Laugh. Laugh some more. I am so happy that people can poke fun at the new president in a non-negative way. I am also glad to know he has a look-a-like out there to take the heat off of his personal life. We know that the man in this video is NOT, I repeat, NOT the president. The imposter can dance. Barack cannot. However, I'm sure he busts a few moves just as good in the privacy of the White House! Rock on, Barack!

I have removed the evidence...

2009-01-22T19:53:00.000-08:00

For those of you who read the previous blog and wanted to watch the you tube videos I mentioned, you will now have to look them up yourselves. While it was nice yesterday, today some of them are unavailable, and some have been altered so that Beyonce' is covered up by scences from Obama's campaign. Whatever. Enjoy her while she sings. I still think her dress was prettier!

"At Last..."

2009-01-21T11:32:00.000-08:00

...I get to talk about Michelle Obama's inagural ball dress. To tell you the truth, after my man Denzel announced, "ladies and gentlemen, the President of the United States and his wife, Michelle Obama..." I got all giddy and excited to see what she was wearing. I'm sorry to say I was a wee bit disappointed. I wanted something more Jacqueline Kennedy-stunning, or classic Nancy Reagan. I realize Michelle Obama is supposed to be hip and happening in the world of fashion, but the dress kind of reminded me of a last minute effort to drape yourself in fabric and then hot-glue pieces of pom poms or cotton balls to it for dimension. I also noticed when they were dancing, it got in her way a lot which makes it awkward to waltz with any man, including the new President of the United States. I think her fashion sense is a little 'to the left, to the left' for me.

Here is where I once again give a plug to my girl Beyonce'. She was dressed elegantly in a light purple/silver hue satin gown, simply cut and stunning. It was SO STUNNING they don't even dare publish photos of it on the internet, knowing that she will outshine the first lady in her fashion choice. My treat for you today...click on my video bar (third box down gives the best view of 'the dress') and watch Beyonce' singing "At Last" for the first dance of the first couple. Her beauty will take your breath away. Michelle may be married to the President, but Beyonce' will always be married to the house of style. (At least for the Inagural Ball!)

***Just a note of observation...Ba-ROCK doesn't have a lot of style when it comes to dancing. If I was in the same room with Stevie Wonder, Sting, Faith Hill, Mariah Carey, Alicia Keyes, Mary J. Blige, Mr. Maroon 5, and of course, Beyonce' I would have been getting my groove on, regardless of protocol. Don't call yourself Ba-ROCK the house if all you're doing is a little swaying here and there. Put your hands up, oohh, oohh, ohhh!!!!! (Check it out on the video bar, 2nd box down!)

"All the Single Ladies..."

2009-01-20T13:27:00.000-08:00

...put your hands up!" My gal-pal Beyonce' was singing on the radio this morning when I was taking Cassidy and two other boys from our neighborhood to school. As we were sitting at a stoplight, Beyonce continues, "If you liked it then you should'a put a ring on it..." And because we are tight like this (Cross two fingers together) I always dance in the car when Beyonce' is singing. While I'm doing my thing, Cassidy starts laughing hysterically. Apparently the man in the little car next to us was really enjoying my show because he smiled and gave me a 'thumbs up'! I'm pretty sure if Beyonce' had been in the car with me she would have said, "You go, girl!" right before she said, "to the left, to the left"...the light has changed and you need to turn "to the left, to the left!"

"Smile for the Camera"...

2009-01-18T21:23:00.000-08:00

If you're ever wondering what your kids do on your computer when you're not looking, here's a peek. Yesterday I was downloading some photos and came across something very interesting. While investigating further, it came to my attention that someone had been using my webcam. It wasn't me, since I really don't know how to use the thing.

I began to interrogate the suspect in question, using my best monotone David Caruso CSI investigative voice, minus the cool shades. (Names have been left out to protect the guilty) "_______, have you been using my webcam?" Suspect replies, "No. I don't even know how." I continue this line of questioning, "Are you sure?" Suspect replies yet again. "Yes, I'm sure. It is too complicated for me." Now I've got him where I want him and I go in for the kill. I present him with approximately 25 chronological photos of himself, the suspect, in various goofy poses. After being faced with the evidence, it was clear he was going to be convicted. He changed his plea instantly. "Wow, it looks like it wasn't that complicated after all! I guess I did know how to use it!"
I ask once again, "What am I going to do with this boy?" Maybe another letter from Santa is in order. And it's only January!

"Here She Is..."

2009-01-18T21:09:00.000-08:00

...Miss (America) Idaho! In case you have been anxiously awaiting the upcoming Miss America pageant...here is THE girl to watch. Elise Davis, our very own Miss Idaho, is also our very own 'adopted daughter". She and Whitney have been good friends since 5th grade. They bought their first Harry Potter books together, went on their first date together (not with each other!) took Chemistry and Honors English together, graduated together, learned to surf together, and headed off to BYU together!When Eli was born we all teased that he was her namesake, since the first three letters of their names are the same: E-L-I-(S-E) and E-L-I-(J-A-H). Now she is in Vegas preparing to (Hopefully!) come home with the Miss America sash, or at least some really good scholarship money. We have been watching COUNTDOWN TO THE CROWN on TLC each Friday night with her parents in preparation for what is to come. Go on line this Friday night and vote for her LIKE CRAZY! We want her to win a gold sash! She needs to be in the top 15 so she can share her talent on tv. She sings opera and is AMAZING!

Here's to you Elise. Best wishes from your 'second family' in Idaho! We will be cheering for you all the way! Make us proud!

Glow, handsome vampire...glitter, glitter...

2009-01-08T21:33:00.000-08:00

It's true. I broke down and went to TWILIGHT with the girls and my friend Kimberly on New Year's Day. I'll admit right up front I'm not a fan of the books, having only read Twilight and New Moon. I have some serious issues with her writing, her content, her implications of what she thinks is okay and what I don't, but that is a whole different blog for an entirely different day. I will say this. I honestly liked the movie. So much more than I thought I would. In fact, I wish I had never read the books and skipped right to the movie. I found it rather enjoyable. Parts were laughable,(***see side note at end of blog) parts were intense, parts were AMAZING, (Vampire baseball!) and parts were well, empowering. (Alice ripping off James' head and then dancing afterwards! Refreshing!) My only disappointment was the scene where Edward is supposed to sparkle like diamonds in the sun. When Robert Pattinson removes his shirt(***another side note at the end of blog) in the meadow in front of Bella, I just wanted to scream at the screen, "Why are you so sweaty?" via my best Kip voice. 'Nuf said.

***If you have never been to a movie with my girls and I you are missing out on our uproariously contagious laughter. It is music to my ears. Come with us to FIREPROOF or HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 3 and you, too, can experience the laughter of a lifetime.

***Just so you know, there is not a photograph of this particular scene anywhere to be found. I think the reason is because if people knew how it turned out on film, based on what they expected it to look like, they would never fork( or should I say, "Forks"?) out the $9.50 it costs to go watch vampires in love. Not even if they knew how cool it was to actually watch them play baseball, or go tree-climbing! That has day-date written all over it! But only with the right 'eternally seventeen' teenage boy! Don't let the branch hit you on the way down!

"If I Were a Boy..."

2009-01-08T20:48:00.000-08:00

...I would be seriously in love with Beyonce'. I think she is stunning. Stunningly beautiful. Any boy/man would be lucky to be seen on her arm. But let's get serious, Jermaine Jackson. The reason I like her is because she has some serious 'girl power' going on. She and I would be great friends. I think I would like to ride around with her while she dumps her men...in fact, I would specifically like to ride around in the car that she references with the following line..."It's my name that's on that Jag." Who doesn't want to ride around in a Jag, for heck's sake? I envision myself and my new best 'gal pal' Beyonce wearing gold dresses and our Jimmy Choos , belting out at the top of our lungs, "Baby drop them keys, Hurry up before your taxi leaves." Of course he needs a taxi now...she has taken away his Jag. As the music love fest continues, our singing gets louder, and now we are finger snapping and swaying side-to-side as well. "I could have another you in a minute, Matter fact, (Beyonce' and I like to sing 'matta' and make the 'r' silent) he'll be here in a minute." The truth of the 'matta' is, Beyonce will always have another man in a minute, because she is stunning. Stunningly beautiful. Just once I want to join her on the chorus as we harmonize, "Don't you ever for a second get to thinkin' you're irreplaceable." Can you just imagine how much fun it would be to go shopping with her. We could be walking around in Macy's and if I spotted a sweata (silent 'r') I really wanted her opionion on I could say, "Hey, Beyonce'...to the left, to the left." And then she would see the sweata and tell me it was just what I needed to make me, that's right, stunning. Stunningly beautiful. Aaaah. What a day for a daydream!

The First Party...and Blog...of 2009!

2009-01-01T00:31:00.001-08:00

I know...I have blogged three times in less than 6 hours, but I didn't want to let the night end before wishing everyone a very HAPPY NEW YEAR...and also share pictures from our "Rockin' New Year's Eve". The guest list was extensive...Jonas Brothers, Ryan Seacrest, Taylor Swift.

We aren't sure, but we think the person in the really cool hat might have been Sara Palin or her snowmobile racing champion husband...they can see Russia from their house, and that's where they got the really cool hat from!

Aaahhh...the Clinton's. Still trying to get our votes and buy our respect. Can you say, "Get a new hairstyle for the new year, Hillary?" Or better yet, how about, "Get a new husband before you are sworn in as Secretary of State. Then he'll have plenty of time on his hands, and you won't have to worry about him making you look bad again. Hopefully, you won't do it on your own!"
My personal favorite, Mr. Dick Clark. I have loved him from Day One when I first watched 'American Bandstand'. I haven't missed a New Year's Eve without him, and it was nice to see him again, even if he does look stoned. I'm a bit sad about how he has been affected by his strokes and failing health, but if I had to rate him in my book of memories, he'd get a '10'...for introducing me to good dancing and great rock-n-roll! Party on, Dick!

New Year's Eve...Part Deux!

2008-12-31T22:37:00.001-08:00

Paella aside, the second half of our evening was just as enjoyable...and even more thought-provoking. We just finished watching The Great Debaters. Denzel Washington, once again fabulous in the role of a coach and mentor. Just as in Remember the Titans he is able to lead and inspire people to rise above their limitations and focus on their strengths. This movie has a strong message from history that needs to be remembered, not forgotten. In light of the fact that the first black man in the history of America is about to become the President of the United States, we must always remember how important it is to go forward...relying on the strengths and people from history who make us who and what we are today. Remember, "We do what we have to do in order to do what we want to do."

What are you doing New Year's Eve?

2008-12-31T19:11:00.000-08:00

We are making paella. When Whitney was in London, she tried it for the very first time and LOVED it. She has been dreaming about it ever since. As a special treat, we decided to make it for our New Year's Eve Feast. Cook a little shrimp, saute' some sausage, peppers, onion, and garlic. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and rice. A pinch, or two, or three, of the special (and pricey!) Saffron...(Yes, we're just mad about it!) and BAM! You're making paella. Thirty minutes from start to finish, with frozen peas added in at the end! Garnish with lemon and serve in a festive holiday dish! Emeril would be proud!

A Post-Holiday Reading Suggestion...

2008-12-29T22:09:00.000-08:00

Even though the holidays are now over, I have a recommendation for a great read. Check out A Red Bird Christmas by Fannie Flagg. I read it every year. I love it! It makes me happy. It makes me laugh and it makes me cry. It has inspired me to change my blog background for the long winter ahead. I actually just ordered me a brand new copy from Barnes and Noble and I am anxiously awaiting it's arrival. The minute it is here I will be dropping everything to re-read and re-visit one of my holiday traditions. I'm thinking hot chocolate with fresh whipped cream and some mint milanos to keep me company while I read!

On the third day after Christmas...

2008-12-27T19:00:00.000-08:00

...my true love reminded me..."Joy, you didn't do much blogging during the holidays." I'm not quite sure why that is, actually, since I had every intention of sharing favorite movies, music, and memories. I guess I just got caught up in the hustle and bustle of the 'busy sidewalks, city sidewalks, dressed in holiday style.' In the air is no longer the feeling of Christmas. So, for those of you who are wondering...here is my version of the Twelve Days of Christmas...after the fact!

On the first day of Christmas...we put up the family tree...(See only December holiday blog). Now aforementioned tree is shedding dead pine needles all over the floor. It still looks lovely, but the scent is gone, and it's days are numbered. Oh, well, Christmas tree...oh, well!

On the second day of Christmas I sat down and made a list. And another one. And even another one. On the day BEFORE December 25th, I actually checked the last thing off of the list...at least the last thing that was absolutely necessary. If we didn't have it by then, we didn't need it.

On the third day of Christmas, we attended Phillip's office party. The food was good, the company was good, the punch was GREAT, and it was the first year it wasn't at our house, which made it THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR for me, since I wasn't ready for all the 'parties' I should be hosting!

On the fourth day of Christmas, I watched a Christmas movie on the LIFETIME network. Usually LIFETIME movies involve women getting hurt by men, getting strong, killing those men, and then getting new lives. This particular movie, though, is one of my all time sappy holiday favorites. Borrowed Hearts stars the ever beautiful Roma Downey (She's an 'angel sent from God') and a bad hair day and non-gay Eric McCormack (Will and Grace). If you get a chance, take 1 1/2 hours and view it. It's worth your time, if nothing else for mindless entertainment purposes. Over the next few weeks I also watch other classics, "White Christmas", "I'll Be Home for Christmas", and "The Preacher's Wife". Whitney Houston sings a rockin' hot version of JOY TO THE WORLD and Denzel Washington is the most handsome angel in a gray suit I have ever encountered. He can flash those pearly whites at me anytime!

On the fifth day of Christmas, I did get to host one of those holiday parties...for 140 of my closest friends...the ThayerWood Ward Breakfast. This year's menu was a breakfast biscuit bar...I had my doubts at first, but it worked out fabulously...biscuits with canadian bacon and cheese, or the best country gravy ever! ($1.00 a package at Walmart) Fresh fruit, yogurt, juice, and milk...nothing left over except 4 pieces of Canadian bacon, and two dozen biscuits. (We started wtih 240!)

On the sixth day of Christmas, I watched the First Presidency's Christmas Program. The music by the tabernacle choir was wonderful, and the messages inspirational. I was especially touched by a story President Monson shared about visiting a nursing home. He asked the question, "Is there someone who is awaiting your visit?" I hope that I followed those promptings this season and made a visit to someone who was waiting for me. I know someone visited me who I was awaiting to see. Ahh...the blessings of being loved!

On the seventh day of Christmas, my son received a letter from Santa. It stated that he had been a good boy for MOST of the year, but needed to spend a little bit more time respecting his parents and sister, or there would only be COAL on Christmas morning. This is the day OPERATION COAL COLLECTION began. More on this later! The receipt of Eli's letter reminds me that I have yet to compose our family Christmas letter, so my mind is a jumble for the rest of the day. Around midnight it is completed, except of course for the stuffing, stamping, and mailing of the envelopes. Blogging kind of removes the need for a family letter, but it's something I love to do, so I do it anyway!

On the eighth day of Christmas my shopping marathon began...nothing too complicated this year, just a few items for each member of the family that were easy to acquire, and even easier to hide...until the aforementioned family member who needed to work on respect went seeking 'gifts from afar'. Thus began his first experience with 'keeping Christmas secrets from sisters'. I have to say, he passed this test with flying colors.

On the ninth day of Christmas, my musical gift arrived. Cassidy sang in her last high school Christmas concert ever. It was lovely and inspiring. Combined with the school orchestra, they sang favorite carols, and ended with selections from The Messiah. From the first strains of the overture, to declarations of "For Unto Us A Child Is Born", and the promise of "And the Glory of the Lord" my heart swelled with gratitude for the knowledge of the birth of that tiny babe in a manger. As we stood for the "Hallelujah Chorus" tears flowed freely down my face. I knew without a shadow of a doubt that He is "Wonderful. Marvelous. Counselor. The Mighty God. The Everlasting Father. The Prince of Peace." Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

On the tenth day of Christmas, my house was now decorated, the gifts were all bought, the radio was playing "Sleigh Ride", and I was still collecting coal, due to the fact that my son was testing Santa to see if he would come through with that promise. After his bath, he came into my room and pointed to his head, now missing a LARGE chunk of hair. "Look what happened? How did this happen?" I asked him if he cut his hair. "No." "Is there a man upstairs giving haircuts?" "No." "Is there a lady upstairs giving haircuts." "No." "How about a hair-cutting ghost?" "No! No! No! I don't know how it happened!" Mom now reminds aforementioned son that at our house, you get in a lot less trouble for telling the truth than for lying. Twenty minutes pass. The son now admits, "I guess I did cut my hair. I didn't mean to. It just happened." Honesty is the best policy...even when hair cutting is concerned. I just hope Santa understands.

The next day is our church Christmas program. I will be playing the piano for the choir to sing approximately 5 numbers. My son with the newly coiffed hair will be front and center when the Primary sings, "Said Samuel, within five years, the night will be as day, and baby Jesus will be born in a land far, far away." I hope his hair cut doesn't distract from the spirit. It's kind of hard not to start laughing when you see it. And yet, I will make him wear it for a few days as a reminder of why we DON'T cut our own hair. TOUGH LOVE PARENTING! I'm all for it!

On the eleventh day of Christmas the family is all home and happy. It's almost time for our annual Nukaya Christmas Eve party. The snow is still falling and the wind is still blowing, but inside all is warm and well. Our friends and their four sons (one is on a mission making an even five boys in that household) come to enjoy the night before Christmas. This is our 10th year of the tradition. We have coldcuts and sandwiches. Irene brings spinach dip. We drink pop and eggnog. Gifts are exchanged and puzzles (500 piece this year) are put together. Ben brings his stuffed squirrel collection. Dusty and Cassidy spend the night trying to beat each other at games. After the company leaves, it's time for the Christmas story, read by Eli. Then we open the obligatory Christmas jammies. This year, Eli gets a robe in his box, guessing it before he even opens it, proving the theory from Day #8 that his sisters gifts were not the only one's he discovered. Unfortunately for me, the only part of the season I was unprepared for involved wrapping and wrapping and stuffing and tagging until 2:00 a.m. Next year I WILL NOT procrastinate on this project!

On the twelth day of Christmas we awoke at 7:30. Each year we seem to get up later and later and later. Everyone comes down and looks for the gifts from Santa. All Eli has is a big blue Rubbermaid tub, full of various types of coal and a book entitled, FUN WITH MANNERS WITH DICK AND JANE. He takes one look at the can of coal, opens it, pulls out the coal and says, "A LUMP OF COAL?" and proceeds to throw it at Whitney! Can of coal...$1.98. Coal bubblegum...$1.98. Book about manners...$3.95. Reaction from Eli...priceless.

Luckily for Eli, Santa also left a note that his real presents were in the living room. It may have seemed a bit harsh for the 2 minutes that it lasted, but it was a memorable moment in our holiday that we will talk about for years to come. Santa was good to everyone...Whitney got a watch and movies and clothes and cd's...Cassidy got scriptures and a camera and clothes...Eli got Legos and DS games...I got a new camera, (which is way cool and way complicated, thus the lack of more photos in this blog :) Phillip got a new camping cot and cold weather gear for winter camping with the scouts. We had our festive buffet...shrimp, hot wings, meatballs, cherry jello, killer potato salad, my dad's famous clam dip, divine punch, and Kimberly's hot wassail and Black Forest Cake. We played Buzz Word and Catch Phrase--the Music Version. We relished in watching Max enjoy Christmas. It's never more magical than when you are two.

That's our holiday in a nutshell. Nothing spectacular. Nothing over the top. Just everything we love to do, with all the people we love to do it with. It really is, "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!"

The new math...it's all 'relative'

2008-12-10T15:33:00.000-08:00

A few days ago while we were waiting for Cassidy, Eli told me that he had to take a math test on the computer to determine his accelerated math level. I asked him what was on the test. Our conversation follows:

Eli: "Well, first it asked us to identify math symbols...like plus signs, minus sign, multiplication and division signs, and those dots called 'decimal points.' Then we had to do some easy adding and subtracting stuff.

Joy: "So, how do you think you did?"
Eli: "Okay, I guess, except one of the problems was kind of different. It said to write a hard math problem."
Joy: "Really? What hard math problem did you write?" ( I'm thinking some imaginary 2,0000 + 17 -45 = ir something like that)

Eli: "I wrote e=mc2." Joy: (gasping) "You wrote e=mc2? What did the computer say?"
Eli: "It told me that one was too hard and to try again, so I did. I wrote 10 divided by 10 equals one. Then it let me finish the test."

What AM I going to do with this boy?

(Photo courtesy of Phillip and my cousin Weston...they climbed on Einstein's head while we were in D.C. I wonder if Eli's head will ever be a statue for tourists to climb on?)

Oh, Christmas Tree...

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

Once again, the family tree has been trimmed. The lights are all on, courtesty of Cody, a six-foot-plus adopted son. I think we will keep him around for just this purpose. I was thinking a lot about the 'tree' last week, actually dreading the acquiring of, and then the decorating that comes after and seems to take forever. I was feeling a little out of sorts, observing all the beautiful and perfect trees that I was seeing in my midst. Cassidy works for a design firm and I am reminded everytime I pick her up just how beautiful professionally decorated trees are. However, last night, after the First Presidency Devotional, Eli's enthusiasm overtook me, and we decided to do the tree deed. As I pulled out all of the ornaments from over 25 years of life together, I was reminded that beautiful trees LOOK good, but trees like ours FEEL good. It is full of wonderful memories, each one invoking a smile or a laugh, or even a tear or two. The tree in all of it's glory. Yes, it's real, and yes it does smell wonderful. Phillip got rid of our fake trees years ago, citing the case, "We are denying our children one of the best scents of the season." I have to say I have a tendency to agree. An evergreen candle just doesn't cut it!

One of our most cherished wedding presents...a 'first Christmas together' ornament. It's usually the first one to to up, and the last one to come off.

I like this one of the Martin Handcart Company. It is a stark reminder of how blessed we are at this time of year (and all year round) to have a warm house and a bed to sleep in and more to eat than 4 ounces of flour. I like to reflect on that first Christmas the remaining handcart company members spent after being rescued and how it must have felt to be safe and alive. It kind of puts things in perspective for me.

One of Whitney's first ornaments. When she was little she looked just like this...curly blonde hair, yellow footie pajamas, and a bear that went to bed with her every night. I melt every time I hang this one up, remembering my precious little girl. She still has curly hair, although it's darker now. I doubt she takes a bear to bed and I know she doesn't wear footie pajamas. But I still melt whenever I see her, because she will always be my precious girl.

What can I say about this one? Cassidy was born on an April morning in the middle of the worst blizzard of the year. A lady I worked with at the radio station gave us this little snow baby ornament to remind us of that winter day when another beautiful daughter came to stay. She keeps our hearts warm and our lives bright!

My dear friend and fellow radio station employee, Wayne Richards, passed away unexpectedly this fall. These bumper stickers were circulating around town after his death. "Drive safely" was his way of saying to listeners and friends, "Be careful. I love you." I felt it very appropriate to find a place on our tree this year for a remembrance of a friend. May you and yours also, "Drive Safely" this holiday season.

No tree of mine would be complete without a touch of Mary Englebreit. Thanks to Miss Peg, each year a new "Mary" treasure is added to be enjoyed and loved. This one is my favorite!

Eli loves penguins. He wishes we could own one. We've taken him to Penguin Daycamp at the Zoo, and bought him every penguin book imaginable. Last year, we found this ornament and he just knew he had to have it. Until he gets that degree in Oceanography and Marine Biology and secures a job as penguin-keeper at Sea World, this is the closest he is coming to having a penguin as a pet!

When I was growing up my brother and I had a dog. J.J. the poodle. J for Joy and J for John. She was THE BEST DOG EVER for almost 14 years of my life. The day we had to put her to sleep was the first time I ever felt a loss of a pet. I've felt it several times since, but never as strongly. Now that John is gone, this ornament is just a little reminder of those fun days we had together, sister, brother, and dog.

Speaking of pets, we have a cat and her name is Gracie. She's really Princess Grace, but we shortened it down for convenience in calling her name when she is lost, which is quite frequently. We got her on a farm in Lehi when Cassidy was about 3, so we've almost had her 15 years. Most people don't see Gracie; she has a phobia for strangers. If you are at our house and you do catch aglimpse of her, count yourself lucky. It means she thinks you are safe, or you are in the way of her food. So, to celebrate her existence (or non-existence) we have some gray cat ornaments on the tree just for her. Sidenote: Our Gracie the cat doesn't wear clothes. We aren't THAT eccentric!

So, while the tree isn't up to Martha's standards...it's our tree, it's about us, and it's just the way we like it. Come over for some cookie and cocoa and I'll share a few more tree memories...

Thankful for Thanksgiving...

2008-11-25T19:51:00.000-08:00

Aaahhh...the holidays. At our house, we have a few traditions that can't go unmentioned. On the Eve of the Day of Eating...we always watch HOME ALONE! We dress up in our pajamas and quote lines from beginning to end. Some of our favorites: "Buzz, your girlfriend, WOOF!" and "Santy don't visit no funeral homes, little buddy!" We may be crazy, but it just makes us happy! We can't start Thanksgiving until Kevin has slapped his cheeks and screamed AAAAAAHHHH into the camera! Of course, Thanksgiving morning starts bright and early with my dad cooking and the rest of us watching the parades. I still get excited for the Broadway show numbers, the Rockettes, and of course, the giant Snoopy and Charlie Brown balloons. Once we are all seated around the table, everyone takes a moment to express what they are thankful for, and we offer a prayer of gratitude. This year, more than ever, I have much to be grateful for. Health, employment, food, friends, a home, opportunities to serve, opportunities to learn, opportunities to love. We dine on the regular fare...turkey, yams, my dad's potatoes and gravy (my absolute favorite!), corn, rolls, spinach salad, stuffing, pumpkin pie, chocolate pie, and once in awhile, my mother makes carrot pudding, (absolutely NOT my favorite!) It comes complete with lemon sauce, which I took home accidentally one year as a leftover and poured a generous amount over my potatoes before realizing it wasn't my dad's gravy. Imagine a mouthful of lemon-sauce covered potatoes...not a pleasant memory. The rest of the day is spent taking walks, taking naps, playing APPLES TO APPLES, ROOK, and doing a new 750 or 1000 piece puzzle. Later we enjoy leftovers, the men enjoy a little football, and we watch another movie. I'm counting the minutes until it begins, and getting giddy with excitement for the moment when I watch Kevin's mom walk through the door to find her son, the one she left home alone, safe and happy and so glad to see her. It gives me goosebumps, and always makes me shed a tear or two. It's what the holidays are all about...being home, not alone, but with the ones you love. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

One blood donation can save up to 3 lives...

2008-11-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

Until recently I had never donated blood. I have a fear of needles. But when I received a phone call asking if I would donate, I decided to give it a try. The first test they did told me I was too anemic, but they pricked a different finger with a different needle and the second time I passed. To quote a famous slogan, "That was easy!" and before I knew it, I was enjoying the free cookies and punch. So easy, in fact, that I will probably do it again. And again. And again. It's free, it doesn't take much time, and it can be used to help someone in need. The best ending to this story comes now: I've never known my blood type until I received my donor card in the mail today. I'm not sure if you can see it or not. I'm "B Positive" Enough said. Maybe it is a sign from above. Or maybe just a reminder to live up to my name. So, whatever you do today and wherever you go, think of my blood type and "B Positive".

You have got to be kidding me!

2008-11-04T16:16:00.000-08:00

I just stopped at Walmart to buy a loaf of bread, some bananas, and a few bottles of Martinelli's Sparkling Cider. One to celebrate (or commiserate) the election outcome; one to give as an opening night gift for a play. As I'm waiting for the clerk to ring it up, I realize he is looking at me a little weirdly. Soon enough, I find out why. "Ma'am...since this is non-alcoholic, I won't have to card you. Otherwise, I would need to see some id." WHAAAAAATT???? He thinks I don't look old enough to buy non-alcoholic cider? I should've been flattered, but I think it just made me wonder...where do they find these Walmart workers?

Halloween...Part Three.

2008-11-01T09:57:00.001-07:00

This is the last one. I promise. It's starting to look like I'm a little blog-deprived. Eli just read me a comic from last week's paper. He's laughing so hard he might lose another tooth. It's from FOR BETTER OR WORSE. The little boy wants to be Batman, but his brother tells him he is already going to be Batman, so he will have to settle for Robin. In the course of the conversation, the little brother comes up with alternate 'man' heroes that he can be...like, "Fart-Man" and "Burp-Man" and "Toot-Man". I am proud to say this is right up my son's alley! As Charlie Brown would say, right before the Great Pumpkin rises from the pumpkin patch and burps in his face, "AAAAAAGGGGHHHHHH!!!!!" (If you look closely, you'll notice Linus is trying to teach Sally how to arm fart. That boy really knows how to impress a girl!)

Halloween...Part Two.

2008-11-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

Trick or treating is over. Eli has arrived home with a bucket full of candy. The weather was beautiful. I sat on my porch and handed out treats without even wearing a coat. It was the kind of fall evening that you wish would never end. And before the night was through, it did, indeed, feel like the night that WOULD never end. Since Phillip was gone, and Cassidy was at a party, I had grand plans of turning off all of the lights when we ran out of candy, and watching a movie in the basement while Eli invoked on his 'sugar-high' adventure. Sadly, he didn't quite grasp the concept of, "We are OUT OF CANDY! DO NOT (Yoda reference) answer that door!" Whatever. He found that when people rang the bell, it was great fun to open the door, yell "BOO!" and slam the door again. I spent another 45 minutes coming upstairs every 5 minutes to apologize for his holiday rudeness. By the time that settled down, I was SO READY for an evening with my boys from OCEAN'S ELEVEN. ( I know, not scary, but such a fine guilty pleasure. Besides, Whitney is in Vegas right now at a writing conference and had just visited the lovely Bellagio fountains the night before so it was kind of a channeling/bonding moment with her!) George Clooney has barely left the joint to meet up with Brad Pitt when Eli starts crying..."My tooth, my tooth. It's jabbing into my gums. Ow! Ow! Ow!" You get the picture. Well, sure enough, his dead tooth which he practically knocked out on the Winco floor five years ago had finally become loose and gained feeling in the nerves. For the next 30 minutes, he alternated with wiggling it with his tongue, and screaming, "Ow! Ow! Ow!" (He is my son...low tolerance for pain!) Eventually, about the time Brad and the boys were trying to knock out the power all over Vegas, he pulled the tooth! Hooray. Our evening can quiet down now and I can finish this show. Except, I was so tired by now, that I fell asleep. I might have stayed in that blissful state, except that my phone started singing the Indiana Jones theme. Just one of Cassidy's friends, calling me from Walmart to tell me they had wii-fit. (Note to friend: If you really loved me like I think you do, you would've just bought it for me! JK!) Luckily, the phone call came right as the men were basking in the beauty of the fountains while Claire de Lune played in the background, so I was able to see my favorite part of the movie. Thanks, Cody! About this time Cassidy texts from her party to say the movie is running late, can she stay past curfew? Sure. Just be home soon, and drive safely. By the time I hit 'send' on my text reply, Eli is again screaming bloody murder, "I'm shocked! I'm shocked!" Apparently he had tried to plug in the charger for his DS and got a little jolt of electricity, which I had to spend the next 45 minutes explaining to him the difference between a small jolt and death by electrocution. By the way he was screaming, you would have thought he experienced the latter, not the sooner. He was only asleep about 5 minutes when Cassidy came zipping through the door. We talked for awhile and then she went to bed. I stayed up a little longer, going over the day and reminding myself (thank goodness!) that Halloween comes but once a year, and even with all the weirdness it brings, I would miss it if it wasn't here!

Halloween...Part One!

2008-11-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

Searching for a costume this year was not a priority for me. Usually we think of something simple that can be pulled together without much effort, and yet, comes off looking fabulous. Eli wanted to be Darth Vader, but when we went looking for a costume, the force was not with us. I tried to follow Yoda's advice. "Try. Try Not? Do. Or do not. There is no try." Well, I tried. I tried really hard, but every store in town was cleared out of Star Wars anything. While sorting through the racks at Walmart, everyone's favorite Halloween headquarters, he came across this pseudo-leather jacket, reminiscent of Mutt Williams (Shia LeBeauf) in Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Krystal Skull. It became his number one choice, partly because it didn't require much effort to put on, and as Eli reasoned, "Of course, I'll need the cool Mutt Williams sword and switchblade accessories to make it just right." I caved, and moments later, my son became a sword and switchblade wielding movie-hero-wannabe from the summer's biggest blockbuster. (Okay, that would've been THE DARK KNIGHT but we have already done the Batman thing in years past) Here comes the part that clinched it for me. Without skipping a beat, he also commented, "Too bad dad isn't here for trick-or-treating." (Wood Badge Scout training for a week!) "If he was, he would go as Indiana Jones and I would be Mutt Williams. Just like in the movie. Indiana Jones was the dad and Mutt was the son." I thought about wearing Phillip's Indiana Jones hat and jacket and trying to play substitute dad, but knew it wouldn't be the same. Not to mention, the hat is with the husband at Wood Badge. So rather than do, I decided to do not. Sorry, Yoda!

"I am." I said.

2008-10-23T18:32:00.001-07:00

To no one there. And no one heard at all, not even the chair. Slight reference to a Neil Diamond song that usually cracks me up for that very line. However, today "I am" takes on a whole new meaning. I'm stealing this from someone else's blog. Not a tag, but you're welcome to steal it from me and put it on your blog. I think it will be fun, interesting, mind-stimulating, and very personality revealing:

I am: Woman, Hear me roar! (Except today, when I totally sound like a man because of my sore throat. Someone told me it was 'sexy'...I think it's embarassing! Think Mary Carillos...announcer from the Beijing Olympics!)

I want: To go away to a quiet island where I can read a book and listen to the ocean.

I have: Too many things to do, and not enough time to do them.

I dislike: Whining and whiners

I miss: My brother. More now than three months ago, probably not as much as I will in December

I fear: Losing my children...to illness, to accidents, and yes, even to bizarre stalkers and kidnappers

I feel: Paralyzed

I hear: Duncan Sheik singing the FINDING NEMO version of "Beyond The Sea" off my i-tunes account. I really need to get to a beach, and fast!

I smell: Nothing. I'm sick, dang it! However, if I had a choice, it would definitely be something baking...something yummy like pumpkin pie, or homemade bread, or lasagna. MMMMM!

I cry: Way too much lately

I usually: Try to be funny. I like to hear people laugh. Sometimes, the pressure to be a stand-up comedian 24/7 is a little too much. Maybe I should seek my serious side.

I search for: Lost papers in my endless piles. One day I WILL get organized and that will be an entirely different blog.

I wonder: If I wished upon a star...would the wish really come true?

I regret: Getting so involved in so many things that need to be wrapped up in the next few weeks. I'm missing my favorite season sitting inside at the computer.

I love: Phillip, of course...Whitney, Cassidy, Eli...friends...good books...warm summer evenings and beautiful fall evenings...and truffles! (The chocolate kind!)

I care: What others think. I know I shouldn't, but I do. Desperately.

I always: Remember to say, 'please', and 'thank you', and especially, 'I love you' before I hang up the phone with Phillip or the kids.

I am not: Ready for winter to come. I wish it could stay fall for months and months and months!

I remember: People's names, what they are interested in...fun mindless trivia...and when I thought 75 cents a gallon for gas was out of this world!

I believe: In a Father in Heaven who loves me and knows what is best for me and for my loved ones. I also know His timetable is not my timetable. This has been a very hard lesson for me to learn in life.

I dance: All the time...especially when no one is looking, or when I am public with my children so I can embarass them. Actually, I really am a good dancer, and proud of it!

I sing: Along with every song I every hear, and usually know all of the words. Songs make me happy; singing them makes me happier. Too bad I wasn't blessed with the best voice, but in a car, no one really cares!

I don't always: Take compliments very well. I usually have an excuse of why what someone comliments me on isn't true. I should work on this. So, if you see me, compliment me on something, and I will take it with simple gratitude.

I argue: Rarely. "Peacemaker" is my middle name. But I do like to argue with stupid people on tv...probably since they won't fight back!

I write: Because I love it...not because I'm good at it. I just love to do it!

I win: At cards. Sometimes by luck, sometimes by cheating.

I lose: Weight rarely. But I must be the same size as the average American woman, because when I go shopping, she has already purchased everything decent and good in my size.

I wish: Everyone in my life was as happy as they could possibly be, and that all of their dreams would come true. Maybe I will tell them to wish upon a star!

I listen: To all kinds of music. Depending on my mood, there's something out there to fit it, and I can probably find a copy of it to listen to.

I don't understand: The stock market. That's why I have Phillip around. Truthfully, right now, I'm glad I don't have to understand it. If I have questions my husband can't answer, (Which, by the way, is NEVER!) I can always find what I'm looking for from Suze Orman.

I can usually be found: Doing something for the family...or at the computer...or in the car...or, weather permitting, on my porch!

I need: My throat to stop hurting!

I forget: Confrontations. I am very quick to forgive, and not very easily offended.

I feel happy: Most always...after all, my name is Joy. This blog isn't long enough for everything that makes me happy. Just know that I am...and it's probably partly because of YOU!

Lucky Number 7...

2008-10-19T14:31:00.000-07:00

Thursday was Eli's 7th birthday. He has been counting down the days on the calendar since about last January. Not just because '7' sounds like a lucky number, but because he knew this was the year for a 'friend' birthday. Before I proceed, may I just state, that, for the record, 'friend' birthday years really STRESS me out. I can't just invite a few kids over for cake and ice cream and pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey. It always has to be big and clever and out of this world. Once, when Whitney turned '7' we had a huge surprise party at McDonalds. And when Cassidy turned 4 we had 17 kids from the 'hood over for egg dying, egg hunting, and a pinata, all held in the basement due to a last minute April snow storm. Last time Eli had a 'friend' birthday it was a Scooby Doo mystery event, complete with mummy wrapping, bat-catching, and the great gummy worm jello grab! Do you get the picture? The word SIMPLIFY does not belong in my vocabulary when it comes to birthdays. But I'm getting older, so I figure it's time to get a little wiser. This year, we decided to invite six friends, plus Eli, making it an even 'lucky number 7' in the guest department. We loaded up the car after school and headed to KUNG FU PANDA. Everyone got popcorn, candy, and a drink. We had the theater to ourselves. (I told Cassidy it was every girl's dream...to be all alone in a movie theater surrounded by boys! Maybe just not boys in the 'ten and under' age group.) We told jokes out loud before it started, and danced along with the pre-show music. It's great to let loose in a theater when no one else is watching. For me the movie was just okay...no FINDING NEMO, but not as bad as SPIRITED AWAY. Of course, the boys LOVED IT. All the way home I was the single female in a car full of male testosterone...arm farting, karate chopping, belching, and the YUSHI finger hold...something from the movie that causes great pain on the part of the receiver. My mind flashed back to days gone by when my parties involved manicures and crafting cute frames with rhinestones and lots of pink fluffy things. I guess I have entered a new dimension in life..."THE SECRET WORLD OF BOYS". It's going to take some getting used to since I'm not quite sure about the body-function noises and the pain-infliction rites of passage. However, knowing how much I enjoy the teenage boys that are frequently guests in my house, I really do have something to look forward to. The other day I used one of them as an example and said, "Eli, Cassidy's friends never burp when they are at our house. They have respect for women." Cassidy's friend smiled at me and said, "Hey, Sister Sorensen, I'm glad to know that at least you've never heard me burp." Then he winked at Eli for a little male-to-male bonding. I'm also pretty sure they both burped when I left the room!

He Still Sends Me Flowers...

2008-10-18T19:16:00.000-07:00

I'm officially a "Silver Anniversary' woman. On October 7th, Phillip and I celebrated 25 years of marriage. I had grand plans of a beautifully written, romantic and praise-worthy salute to my husband, but life just got away from me that week. Luckily, I have a husband who thinks of me even when I'm not at my best. He surprised me with a leisurely lunch at Olive Garden, where we split my favorite...a decadent slice of white chocolate raspberry cheesecake. He really does know a way to a woman's heart! When I arrived home, I was greeted by a beautiful bouquet of roses in my favorite shades of fall colors. They made me smile every minute of every day for the rest of the week. The anniversary celebration didn't stop there. Friday we went out to dinner with some good friends where we enjoyed calamari, shrimp cocktails, and almond-crusted halibut. I had needed a few moments away from the hustle and bustle that is my life, and he squeezed them in at just the right times. So, I guess instead of all the beautifully written and romantics praises I had planned, I'll just sum it up like this. He has been steady and sure for 25 years, and I know he will be steady and sure for an eternity more. We balance each other. He's the intellectual; I'm the mindless trivia expert. I remember the names of everyone I've ever met; he keeps me around to remind him of the names of all the people we've ever met. He sits through chick flicks with me; I'll watch sports wtih him. He makes me laugh. And laugh. And laugh. He holds my hand when I'm sick, tucks the covers around me when it's cold, and always kisses me goodnight. We've had a few disagreements over the years, and I'll admit he's usually right, but he still tells everyone I'm the best thing that ever happened to him, and of course, he's right again about that! Together, we have been blessed with the 3 most amazing children on the planet. They have their dad's intellect, their mother's ability to remember names and mindless trivia, and again, their dad's gift of tenderness and compassion. Someone asked me if the 25 years was from more than one marriage. I was proud to tell them that all 25 years had been spent with just one man, my man, my Mr. Phil, the heart of my heart.

To him I say, "Grow old along with me, the best is yet to be."

Back to bloggin'

2008-10-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

I have been SOOO busy lately that I have fallen behind, but tonight I'm going to play catch-up on my blog instead of catch-up on laundry. I hope this doesn't cause too much of a commotion on Monday morning when we're all looking for something to wear...

It was 21 years ago today...

2008-10-06T08:43:00.000-07:00

...that something lovely and wonderful entered our lives. We spent many years (impatiently!) awaiting her arrival, and from the moment we first held her in our arms we have been blessed every day by her presence. Happy Birthday Whitney. Here are just 21 reason why we love you! 1. Sisters, Sisters...there were never more devoted sisters. Two girls--different in so many good ways, alike in even better ways. Cassidy has looked up to you with admiration and love for 17 years now, and it has been a beautiful journey to watch the mentor guide her student so gracefully. And don't forget, "Go Go Girls Tip Number #1: Never wear white after Labor Day, unless it is in a pair of Nancy Sinatra boots!'

2. You LOVE to laugh. Your laugh is contagious. It's infectious. If I close my eyes right now, I can hear it ringing through my heart, and it makes me happy!

3. You are the best big sister a brother ever had. From the moment you put out your hand to Eli and he curved his fingers around yours, you have been joined hand and heart. To quote Eli, "I like Whitney because she does things with me, like board games. We eat ice cream together and read the comics. She plays with me and we do Charlie Brown dancing! Good grief! She helps me with stuff, too!"

3. You are the queen of vocab--the word nerd--indeed, the Grammar Goddess and Queen of English. We knew early on that words would be an important part of your life. Afterall, you were only 2 1/2 when you told the neighbors, "I'll have a ham and cheese sandwich, but without the cholesterol, please!" WOW! You're still dazzling us with your command of the English launguage!

4. You are a loyal friend. Never jealous of anyone else's accomplishments, always complimentary, always willing to be there for whoever, whenever, whatever. I notice that you have a special gift of making everyone around you feel like they are the most important person in your life, especially if that someone is an underdog, and needs a little extra TLC!

5. You are a lover of the finer things in life...lilacs in the spring, leaves in the fall, reading Anne of Green Gables on the front porch. Watching the waves crash to the shore, and building a sandcastle on the beach. It's the simple things that make you happy!

6. We share a fear of clowns. Not to sound like a 'circus freak' but we don't like clowns. We think they are creepy. Even though on your 8th birthday you were a guest ringmaster at the Barnum and Bailey Circus with a nice clown, all other clowns are taboo to be around. (Maybe that's why you also don't like mascots at baseball games!)

7. Speaking of sports...you are the worlds greatest spectator, and the Olympics most loyal fan. If Michael Phelps had a dollar for every time you thought about him, he wouldn't need that billion dollar endorsement deal he is getting. You also love baseball (the Cubs!), basketball, (March Madness with dad), lacrosse (Johns Hopkins) and of course, tennis (Roger Federer!)

8. You LOVE to learn. I never knew what is was like to raise a genius until you came along. Once you learned to read (Ted and Sally with grandmother) you have absorbed and inhaled everything and anything around you. I think you are a mensa, just like your dad, with a photographic memory. I'm pretty sure you would've been good with the Jeopardy buzzer as well. Only time will tell!

9. You are a well-seasoned world traveler. London, Dublin, Hawaii, St. Louis, Connecticut. I'm pretty sure the next destination you head towards will be one chosen 'especially for you', if you get my drift. I can't wait to watch you open that envelope!

10. You are spiritually wise beyond your years. So many experiences in your short life have helped you to learn to rely on the Lord. You are also very good at learning lessons from the spirit. Your testimony has been strong for years, and you work very hard to strengthen it daily. You have graciously received and served in callings, and will have many more to come in your life time. Thank you for tutoring me in spiritual ways. As I observe the life you live, it makes each of us want to try a little harder to do a little better.

11. Lover of all good books...what can I say? If we start a list now, it will be like the song that never ends. Just know that if there is a good book out there, you have either read it, or will read it, or better yet, write it in a few years. Enough said.

12. Lover of all good music...what can I say? It has been a wonderful 21 years tutoring YOU of all things good in the land of rock-and-roll. When you were little I would sing "Here Comes the Sandman" and "Teddy Bear Picnic" to lull you to sleep. Dad would dance you around the room singing "My Girl" and you would gaze up at him with those big green eyes! Soon we moved onto primary songs, your favorite was "Adam was a Prophet." But the fun really started when you learned all about the Beatles, and the Beach Boys, and the Osmonds, of course! Later still, Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. I still think that you and I are the best radio car singers on the planet...next only to, best makers of Sonic Car commercials!

13. Lover of all good movies...what can I say? The first movie dad and I ever took you to was GHOSTBUSTERS 2, which may explain the next paragraph, but after that we stuck with Disney Shows for a few years and they never steered us wrong. The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Mulan...later Cool Runnings, Remember the Titans and The Rookie. You are a romantic at heart...Return to Me, Sleepless in Seattle, and While You Were Sleeping. You love anything to do with history...Amazing Grace and Glory Road and Miracle and To Kill a Mockingbird. Anything that makes you feel good...That Thing You Do, On the Line, What's Up Doc. Anything old and classic...That Touch of Mink, Charade, High Society, To Catch a Thief, Rear Window. Anything involving superheroes...Batman Begins and Superman Returns. Anything that makes you cry...The Ultimate Gift and Anne of Green Gables. I guess I could keep going, but I won't. You get the picture!

14. Lover of all good foods...what can I say? Popcorn is your absolute favorite, followed closely by shrimp, zuchinni, paella, mushrooms, sausage, pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, and once in a while, a drink from Sonic to indulge your mother.

15. You can turn the world on with your smile. You can take a nothing day and certainly make it all seem worthwhile!

16. You are brave, like Sheila Rae! It may have only take 17 years to get you on "The Haunted Mansion" ride at Disneyland, but since then your courage has been tested in many ways. Rides at Lagoon, going to college, leaving the country, taking a train ride in Ireland unsupervised, going in a CAVE! When ever you are scared, just put one foot in front of the other and say, "I think I can, I think I can, and you will!"

17. Just like that famous pig, you are H-U-M-B-L-E. You have had many wonderful accomplishments over the years, and they are not mine to brag about, but let me just say, you don't brag about them, either, and that is very admirable. I think you have been blessed because you are humble, and with so many great things in your future, the practice will come in handy! S-A-L-U-T-A-T-I-O-N-S!

18. From Dad: "Reliable, honorable, a person with great integrity." He went on to say that as an employee, there has never been anyone as concientious and accurate at balancing as you. I'm sure if I polled your employers at Gameworld they would state, "If Whitney's working for you, you don't have to worry about sanitation issues or shoplifters!"

19. Great shoe sense--at least in the sneakers category. If there is a pair cool sneakers to be had, you will certainly have them.

20. You were rightly named, because you are, the 'wittiest' person I know. Never in a hurtful or inappropriate manner, but always clever and always funny. We can count on you for humor during car trips, humor during rock-picking and sod-laying, humor during breakfast and humor during dinner. We miss your 'wit' when we don't have it on a daily basis; perhaps it could be bottled into something over-the-counter. I'm sure it would make the world a happier place!

21. WOW! Here we are at 21 and I could keep going for 21 more. But I won't. I will conclude this salute to you by saying, YOU ARE WONDER WOMAN! We have never wondered what you were up to; you were always up to something productive and good. You make us wonder how we could be so lucky to have had the priviledge of raising such an amazing, wonderful, beautiful and brainy girl. No matter what experiences life throws your way, just swing that golden lasso and get busy! We love you and want you to know that we think you are a WONDER-ful WOMAN! May this day be your best yet, and may there be many more just like it over the next 21 years.

Blog Stalking...

2008-10-03T17:06:00.001-07:00

...not normally a habit of mine, but I did want to HIGHLY recommend a blog I happened upon quite randomly. Addictively, I keep returning, never to be disappointed. It is listed on my sidebar under "Something to Blog About" as 'Normal Mormon Husband'. I'm not sure there is such a thing as a normal mormon husband, or just plain normal husband for that matter, but whoever he is, wherever he is, he is hilarious. Scroll down to his video on the TWILIGHT series, and don't miss his comments on 'The Palin Love Affair". I promise you will be rolling on the floor with laughter. It makes my day, and I hope it makes yours, too!

Politically speaking...

2008-10-01T18:30:00.000-07:00

...I just spent the night with Mitt Romney. He was in town for a political rally and I was only 4 rows away from touching him. Almost as close as I was to Three Dog Night, but not quite. Close enough, though, for some sweet photo ops...In the first one, he is pointing right at me and saying, "Joy Sorensen, I wish I had a son for your daughter Whitney to marry." I have titled the second photo, "Mitt's Back" in honor of his pre-announcing that there is a strong possibility he will BE BACK (say it like Arnold) for another political run after the next 4-8 years to come. The third photo...just a nice picture of a very nice man. His smile could melt your heart. I still wish he was going to be my president!

He is so handsome...almost as handsome as my husband, who was right by my side, taking just as many photos on his cell phone. We are like a crazy political stalking duo!

So you think you can dance?

2008-09-24T16:56:00.000-07:00

The birthday gift arrived Monday night...and it has been active ever since. Considering I have a minor in dance and was once a member of a college dance team, this has really taken me back to the good old days when I could jump and jive with the best of them. I'm just getting the hang of it, but I have to say, it makes for a fun work out. I'll keep you posted of my progress. Don't be too jealous that I spend my days dancing to "I Want Candy", "Umbrella-ella-ella" and "Don't You Forget About Me". It beats the heck out of laundry, and reminds me that my thighs can still burn with the best of them. Once my leg warmers and leotard arrive I'll make a video for my blog! Now that's something to look forward to! P.S. That bright light on the girl's chest is how my heart feels after I "Bust A Move"...kind of hot and kind of flashy! Take that for what it's worth!

The Day the Music Died...

2008-09-22T13:38:00.001-07:00

I lost a good friend last night. Wayne Richards, local d.j. and voice of the Melaleuca Freedom Festival Fireworks, passed away in Hawaii. He was snorkeling with his son-in-law and didn't come to the surface. They pulled him to shore, performed cpr, and sent him to the hospital. Unfortunately, they had to put him on life support and last night made the decision to take him off. My heart aches for his family. I hope that is a choice I never have to make. My day has been spent listening to the many tributes that are being paid to him over the airwaves. I can't bring myself to call in...the emotions are too close to the surface. Every song that comes on brings up another memory of Wayne. He was my best friend in the office...we quoted movies to each other, challenged each other to lyric contests, pulled plenty of pranks on co-workers, and went on endless junk food runs. He used my girls in radio ads, and taught me the art of music-mixing. He kept me laughing, and made me feel like I was the most indispensable member of the team. He was a mighty man among many, and will be sorely missed. To his wife, his son, two daughters, two son-laws, and two granddaughters, I send my prayers. He lived his life to the fullest, and we are blessed to have know him.

Dancing Queen...

2008-09-22T11:58:00.001-07:00

...Young and sweet, only 17...The dress for Homecoming...we both felt inspi(red) after the dress had been acqui(red)...it was perfect for Cassidy and fit her like a dream.
The date for Homecoming...also a dream. Cassidy and Jace have been good friends for a long time, and have dated several times, but it was her dream to go to a dance with him, so of course she was on cloud nine. In case you are wondering about the white tux, apparently they are 'tight', 'da bomb' and what 'everyone who is anyone' is wearing to formal dances these days. When I first heard he was wearing a white tux two thoughts came to mind: One was 'temple worker'; the other was 'pimp'. Not to worry, it looked great! Whitney's only comment was, "John Travolta called. He wants his suit back!" We all had a good laugh over that one!
It had been raining all day on their picnic, so I was inspi(red) at the last moment to send an umbrella to the dance. But first, a perfect photo op! This is one of my all-time favorites!

Her corsage was so pretty...not just your standard roses, but a lovely Calla lily. Sweet!

My favorite part of dances is when she comes home and we stay up all night (morning) talking! Imagine looking so bright-eyed at 1:30 in the morning. It must come from being young and sweet and only 17! "She can dance, she can jive, havin' the time of her life."