Do you feel it?

That great spirit of Christmas is here...
...when you let some one have the closest parking spot just because...when you sneak a small pack of cookies in you husbands computer bag...when your kids reach for that 12th kiss at night (and you just can't ignore it)...when you know you have the perfect gift that he is going to just LUV...when some one you have hurt smiles and says it is OK...when you get a letter from a friend from long ago...all these things and the truth that I am grateful for my savior and his greatest gift.

My baby...

My baby is five months old...and I am not so sure that I am OK with that.

Ten Years....

Ten years ago today (the 27th, or the day after thanksgiving) I was home for holiday break. I had been warned, but was not prepared for what was to happen.

I went to the library for a little finals preparation. (it is true, I did study once in a while, if there was nothing better to do.) On my way home, I got a craving for cinnamon bears---sugar, my drug of choice. Pulling into the parking lot, I noticed a van pull around behind me. No big deal, I hoped out of my car to head into Albertson's. I see cute guy in glasses running towards me, he looks familiare, oh wait, it is Chris Bremser from high school. I had heard that he was home from his mission. I shuttered at the memory (the kid broke my heart). I really liked him in high school, but he lost interest in me when I was not as aggressive as he was used to--plus there was another girl that came along.

A polite smile on my face, I say Hi. He stops asks a few polite questions...how are you? What have you been up to for over two years? then...the question "What are you doing tonight? Do you want to go out?" Oh crap! I have never been good about saying no. So instead "Sure." He runs back to his car and I wonder into Alberston's confused and shaking...shaking...I knew this was different. I blamed it on the fact that he was the only boy that ever rejected me. I was always able to get the guy, but he had been able to walk away.

I never did find my cinnamon bears, I wondered around the store in shock, and then went home to prepare for my big date. Who knew that it would all go so well...

Christmas...

Thanks Amber...I am guessing that this song has more meaning for you this year than ever, but I cried when I heard it.

Husband tag...

1. Where did you meet your husband? Seminary, Jr. year of High School.

2. How long did you date before you got married? We dated for 18 months. (Dated 1 year, then engaged 6 months) I don’t work quickly.

3. How long have you been married? 8 years and almost 7 months

4. What does he do that surprises you? He doe not surprise me. (that sounded terrible, but it is true…very predictable in everything.)

5. What is your favorite feature of his? His Hands!!! (I also love his smile.)

6. What is his best quality? Very, very hard worker.

7. Does he have a nickname for you? Sweetheart

8. What is his favorite food? Steak (right now he likes it covered in bleu cheese)

9. What is his favorite sport? Cycling—does that count as a sport?

10. When and where did you first kiss? After two months—his parents basement. (back when they liked me)

11. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple? Shop—I know crazy, but he is my FAVORITE shopping buddy.

12. Do you have any children? 4

13. Does he have any hidden talents? He can clean! (and does so when left home alone—I LOVE It. )

14. How old is he? 31

16. What is his favorite music? 90’s (but that changes periodically)

17. What do you admire most about him? Again his work ethic—I know that he may not always make a ton of money, but he will never sit around waiting for things to just happen. I also admire the fact that he is immovable. He is very easy going, but if he believes something or has made a decision, good luck changing his mind (or his heart). (this is good—most of the time)

18. What is his favorite color? Blue

19. Will he read this? Yes, even though he was there when I filled it out.

20. Who do you tag? Hmmm…anyone?

A house divided...

As we are discussing voting this week and watching the news our children have become very interested. The problem: Anna wants Obama (he has better hair), and Preston wants McCain (we don't know why). It has brought some pretty heated discussions into our home. Let's just hope that Obama has more to bring to the presidency than his great hair (which I just don't see, but...)

Do mint oreoes count as essential produce?

Maybe not, but I think they may qualify as MEDICALLY NECESSARY!

30 Days = No Spending

30 Days!!! What was I thinking? $100 for milk and the essential fresh produce. The rest comes from my pantry and food storage. Anything else can wait or be forgotten. I got this great idea from a Readers Digest (kind of nerdy, but true). But now Anna is begging to take that extra dance class that is soooo fun! I am going through Target withdrawals. And I am wondering, "Do I have enough candy for Halloween."

We lived very tight while Chris finished school, especially during his masters program, but this is different. The kids are older and want things. I am use to a little freedom, and I have a car to get me to the store. (Something I did not have for a long time.) So, why are we doing this you ask? Has anyone felt the pinch of the hurting economy? Have you felt a little of the anxiety that I have felt for the future? I read an article that suggested cutting all spending will help me find the things I may be missing in my food storage. It will also help me again become aware of needs vs. wants. (Something I think I have forgotten in recent years.)

I have only been doing this for a week and I am finding so many things that I did not realize would come into question. ...the kid's book orders (I love new books each month--especially the $1 ones)... Cafe Rio (missing you)...a new bottle for Zac (lost one on vacation a couple of weeks ago, before we started this 'game', but I forgot to replace it until it was too late...a new spray bottle (mine broke)...make up (my powder is gone!)... Red box...Baby sitter (except for temple night)... None of these things are allowed...

We did find a fun free pumpkin walk for Saturday night with the kids. I have made an extra batch of bread this week for sandwiches on the run. I resisted taking the kids out for lunch. I have avoided Target at all costs (I love that store).

I am wondering what my friends (and other readers) have done to cut costs or plan for future hardships. This economy is scaring me, so I want ideas!!!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

I am a little late in posting this, but this is a reminder for all my friends. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month...do your exams!!! I will remind you again in May (my own five year mark!!!), but please do them!!! I don't care if you think you are to young (I was 23). I don't care if it is not in your family (I was the first in mine)! I was lucky that although mine was malignant all I had to experience was a partial mastectomy. Two surgeries is a very easy treatment considering what so many others have to go through, but that was enough of a wake up call for me, and I hope enough for ALL of my friends.

My Knees Are Grey!

This happens to be Anna's favorite song as of late. Any guesses?
Hint: We sing it for Family Home Evening nearly every week.






Emily is right, it is "I am a Child of God." second verse.
Got to love the things the kids think we are trying to say. You should hear Preston and Anna's memorized version of the 11th Article of Faith. (I guess I did not explain the meaning of translated very well.)

Happy Birthday to Chris

Happy Birthday to my number one. I won't say how old he is, but last year the big 3 0 was tough. :) The kids and I are busy preparing the chocolate bread (in place of cake at his request). I only hope it turns out--guessing how much flour made it into the bowl and not onto the floor (thanks to Chloe), fishing out egg shells (thanks to Anna), and a few extra chocolate chips (thanks to Preston--no problem with that one).

How did he get this old? I guess that may explain some of the gray hair. (I hope I am not to blame for the rest).

Annoyed...

i just want to complain for a moment as I sit on hold for the twelfth time. I hate insurance companies, and billing departments. I know they are only human, but how many mistakes can they make? I don't know how many times I have been told I am wrong. "I am sorry I don't know my own address. " "No, I don't think that is my child's birth date." "Yes, of course I wanted to make a payment on somebody else's account." UGHHHH!!! I hope all of you watch your medical bills, because chances are they are wrong--and not to your favor!!! How do you politely say, "You are an idiot!!!" sorry for the bad language, but seriously?

Tagged by Kelli

I don't usually do these, but I have not posted in a while and I am sure every one wants to know about me...not! OK here I go...
List 5 fears, 5 joys, 5 obsessions/collections, 5 surprising facts about you. Tag 5 people.

Five Fears
1. losing one of my kids in any way
2. losing my husband (in any way)
3. I am with kelli on this one--natural disaster and not able to get to my kids
4. losing my teeth (weird ?)
5. financial ruin/poverty

Five joys
1. my husband
2. my kids
3. reading
4. poetry
5. true friends--I have been blessed with many

Five obsessions
1. Bargains (I love a bargain--but then you all know that because I love to brag about them)
2. Food storage (especially when I am pregnant)
3. Sugar (candy of any sort)
4. Honesty (I HATE phony or dishonest people--and the fact that they all THINK they are getting away with it)
5. 8:00 pm (My children WILL be in bed!!!)

Five surprising facts about me
1. I still write poetry, not good poetry, but it is my therapy.
2. I cry at all the wrong times, and never at the right ones.
3. I love museums--any type will do, but mostly art (the Met in New York, the Louvre in Paris, the San Fransisco Museum of Modern Art. I have seen them all and will see them again!)
4. I hate to be alone--I guess that this is not surprising, but it is true.
5. I also hate to be in a crowd or at big parties.

Tag
1. Tori 2. Elise 3. Megan 4. Amber 5. Natalie

Wow, some of those were hard to come up with.

A moment of gratitude

I have been thinking a little lately about what great of a family I have. This weekend is a perfect example. As you know Chris had his race on Saturday, but thanks to Trace and Aubrey he had a place to stay the night before. Then, Trace called periodically to check on Chris's status throughout the day. Next, Megan called that night to see how it went. My parents called Sunday morning (they were out of town on Saturday). Then they were over to help celebrate Preston's 7th birthday later that night, even though they were exhausted I am sure. Nobody worried about themselves, they were just looking out for my little family. I am so blessed to have all of them as my family.

LOTOJA

He did it!!! Chris did it!!! My crazy husband rode 206 miles from Logan, Utah to Jackson Hole, Wyoming! This included some major climbing through the mountains and had to be done in under 14 hours on September 6, 2008. He did it! It has been a very long summer of training, but he did it. There are so many that attempt, but do not succeed this feat. He has wanted to try it for over 5 years, but now he can say HE DID IT!! 1st try. (Not that I am proud :) ) Thanks to Dan and Jeff (with the horns )for their support (They did it too!!!)

When is the time?

Last week I had two of my college roomies come for a visit. We had a great time with the kids playing and flashing down to memory lane. We got talking about TV's. (I don't remember why.) I had to open our entertainment center and point out that the one and only TV we have in our house is the one I purchased for our apartment just after our freshman year. This was ten years ago! Not to mention I bought it used from a pawn shop (yes that is a little white trash, but...it was cheap, and I was only 18 with college bills to pay.) They were teasing and saying it may be time for a new one. Don't get me wrong we have thought about it. I start thinking about asking my parents for their opinion--they just bought one a few months ago (a really nice Sony flat screen that can be wall mounted). But wait, their old one is older than mine is now! Then I thought to ask my baby sister--after all theirs is only seven years old (happy anniversary by the way!) Oh, and they did drop it once during a move, and the coloring has not been the same since. Still, they have not bought a new TV. My family may not be the ones to ask if it is time for a new TV. Did I mention that I just bought our 6th or 7th stroller? Where R my priorities?

Bear Lake Fun

We took the kids to Bear Lake for four days to get away one more time before school starts. Nothing could be more fun than sand, water, and kids. Anna even said "This is my favorite day! I am going to remember it forever."

We were able to stay in this little cabin just off of the beach. During the day we played on the beach, did a little bit of hiking, saw a show at the Pickleville Playhouse, and ate raspberry ice cream. I tried to talk Chris into renting a boat for the day, but Zac is too little. Too Bad!!!

We played and relaxed all weekend. Chris even took some time to do a century on his bike (100 miles). I did try out my new bike, but ended up with a seriously scraped up elbow, completely bruised behind, and an eternally bleeding thumb. (Have you ever tried to stop a bike with your feet tied to the pedals? Guaranteed to fall! I got one foot out of the clips but tipped the other way.)

I am glad to be home, but I did love the chance to be together without the usual distractions of life.

My perfect little family

OK, so they are not perfect, but they are pretty darn cute!

Watch out, she is TWO.

Chloe had her birthday on Sunday, but we have felt it coming for a few months now. I have never had a child with so much terror to unload on the world. Don't get me wrong, she is loads of fun-- got the teasing ability of her dad-- but the girl knows all about getting into trouble. We call her our own little Kennadie--ask Megan about that one.

Bringing Zac home!!!

It took me a while to upload the pictures, but here is my little family getting Zac dressed and ready to bring home. It sounds cheesy, but I love this crew. Dad, the calm one getting things done. Preston, the constant help. Anna, the bit of drama. Chloe, the crazy informant. And now Zac, the little one.

Happy Birthday

It's Chris again. I am glad Melissa hasn't changed her password yet. Until she changes it, I may break in once in a while.

I just wanted to wish her a happy birthday today. She is now in her upper twenties and I have been privileged to share the last 8+ years with her. She is one amazing lady (I can say lady now that she is almost 30).

There are so many things I love about her. Here are just a few:

1. She has the most beautiful eyes. I believe you can see them in the picture at the top of the blog. They are the most beautiful blue you have ever seen.
2. She supports me and continually gives to me without much thought for herself. She is one of the most selfless people I know.
3. She gives the same support to the kids. I know that sometimes they get on her nerves, but at the end of the day she gives each one of them a kiss and she means it.
4. She could just stare at Zac for hours. I have only witnessed this complete love a few times in my life. She would do anything for him. (that goes for the rest of us as well.)
5. She has a passion for shopping but she will never bankrupt us with it. (Even if she does spontaneously buy time shares).
6. She is always thinking of others. There are many around that would count her as a true friend. That is rare.
7. She is brilliant. I frequently think, "Man, I bet Melissa could do this a lot better than I could."
8. She is patient. She doesn't think so, but I have seen what she puts up with. Between me and the kids, she has her hands full.
9. She gave up her dreams for me.

This is by no means a comprehensive list. I could sit here all day and write about her.

Melissa, I love you. I am so blessed to be a part of your life. Thank you for everything you do. I hope you have a great birthday.

Love,

Chris

Not so smart...

My husband has a masters degree, his CPA, and speaks Chinese, but I am beginning to question his intelligence.

Yesterday, he decided he is into cycling enough that he needed to shave his legs. No discussion with his wife who has obvious experience. Now he has some funny looking chicken legs and a serious case of razor burn. And I have two very dull razors.

Why would any man ever think that shaving his legs is cool?

Why would he not ask for some advise on such an adventure? Probably because he knows my opinion--not Cool! Not even a little.

Maybe my posting will stop him from repeating the venture. Or maybe I need to post a picture...I will see what I can do.

It's a Boy!

Yesterday morning Melissa woke up with some stronger-than-usual contractions. We had the bags packed, the car was ready to go and Melissa's parents were put on call. I was sure that we were going to have a 4th of July baby.

We went to the parade in Centerville with Preston, Anna, and Chloe. Melissa was having contractions all during the parade. We then went home and took a nap and had some down time. After the nap we had dinner with Melissa's parents. The contractions continued all day long and they were strong enough to stop Melissa in her tracks when they happened. After dinner we went home, got the kids to bed, and tried to relax a little. Then the contractions really started. Melissa's parents came over and we left our house at 9:30. Melissa was checked into her room at 10:00 and Zackary Brent was born at about 11:30. It happened so fast that she barely got the epidural in before he came.

Zac was 7 pounds, 6 ounces, and 21 inches long. I included some pictures that were taken on my camera phone. Like a bonehead, I left the cameras at home. We should have some better pictures later today. (By the way, this is Chris. I hijacked the blog while Melissa feeds Zac.)

The whole story

OK, now that I have calmed down to the fact that we spent our life savings in under eight minutes, I will explain the time share story. We were getting the kids into bed, Chris was checking on Chloe one more time. I decided to hop on the computer and check ebay for timeshares. We have been doing this for a few months. I knew what we wanted, Gold week (better tradability), two bedroom lock off (more room for four kids, and again more trading power), Marriott (can't beat the quality) and most likely in Park City (that is what my parents own and it has been great for them. So I am looking through the listings and find one for Palm Springs California ending in 8 minutes. I yell up to Chris, "what do you think?" Complete sarcasm. I have not looked into California properties. He says, "Sure!" Again Sarcasm! I bid--no big deal, things jump in the last few minute of ebay. Most auctions I have watched for timeshares double in the last ten minutes of an auction. We chuckle--no big deal...right? Two minutes goes by. Then another. Chris!!! I am starting to panic. Chris!!! I yell "get down here!" He laughs, he knows the game. But suddenly I am not as sure. Two more minutes go by. Suddenly I am having a very strong contraction. This is not funny. I start hitting my refresh button every twenty seconds (I know, I counted to twenty in between each push). Three minutes go by and we have purchased a time share. Pause. Then a whole lot of screaming and panic from me. Chris is completely calm. Cool, he says California is much cooler than Park City. But do you understand I keep saying--we bought a timeshare--one I have never seen. He loves it,

The whole story...contunued

(I must be rambling). Anyway, he thinks great, now we don't have to shop for another six months. (My usual habit of shopping.) I don't buy a $4 shirt without worrying I could get it cheaper. I have spent the last few weeks making sure I got the best deal out there. I have only found one that went three months ago for $200 less, most go for about $500-$2000 more. I guess I did OK. I do just wish Chris (or my mom) would have freaked out with me for a few minutes. (Funny, my mom was just as calm as Chris was. Neither of them tend to be dramatic people, but they usually understand the consequences of spending large amounts of money in an eight minute time frame.) Does no one understand what I did?

Southern California here we come...

I guess we are officially property owners in beautiful Desert Palms California (Palm Springs). Just Kidding! Well, kind of. We did get our timeshare with Marriott, in their Shadow Ridge resort. I think we may be a little crazy, but if it all goes as planned then my little family will now have great vacations every year. It does look beautiful in the pictures, reviews are great, but then we just want to be able to trade it for other great locations.

The perfect vacation

(note: this may be because I am 8 1/2 months prego.) Park City, Marriott Time share, nothing to do but read, swim, and watch eternal cartoons on cable TV. We took a couple walks up the street for ice cream and caramel apples. The kids got to make flip flops and bird feeders in the kids zone. I did a bit of shopping--a little pink, a little blue. This really was a vacation--no required sites to see, and very little movement for my plump not so little feet. Chris was only able to take Friday off, but he was able to commute back and forth. It was great to just get away from the laundry, the bathrooms, and the other things that home requires. The only bad part--now we are looking into our own time share! After staying at one in Newport Beach, one in Hawaii, and another one in Park City when I was 8 months pregnant with Chloe, we have decided that this is the only way to do a vacation (especially with kids).

Picture this...

Have you ever played charades with a six year old, a five year old, an almost two year old? Here is how it goes. Anna (5) stand perfectly still in the middle of the room arms down by her side, trying her hardest not to break into a giggle. Chris and I look blankly across the room at each other..no ideas to even guess. Preston (6) shouts out "A book!" That's it! Next Preston bounds across the room much like the rabbit from a few rounds back...this time Anna shouts out almost instantly, "A cheetah!" again Chris and I are completely confused, but she is right. Next we all shout, "A puppy!" as Chloe (nearly 2) crawls across the floor, for the fifth time this game, making a sound that could be mistaken for a bark.
Who would have thought that such a simple game could have me laughing until my sides ache?

A little bit of Europe in Utah...

Maybe not exactly, but Chris and I found a new favorite place. Fresco, an Italian cafe hidden on 15th East and 15th South in Salt Lake. It is very small and connected to a little book store. We would have missed it without very specific instructions. This cozy little 'cafe' has an itimate dining room that only allows about ten tables. The menu had though simple in selections did not leave either of us wanting. Everything was meltable. Chris insists we will be returning here for his birthday to eat the pretty food again.

May 4, 2000

Wow, eight years! I suppose it is natural that I get a little lost in the memories this week, and it would be good (and maybe a little cheesy) to share a few of the reasons I pray for many more.

1. Only he can have Chloe in fits of giggles just before bedtime and still have her, Preston, and Anna, asleep before I have a chance to sneak a second kiss.

2. He lets me sleep in almost every Saturday.

3. He has given up his family for our family.

4. The only things he can cook are macaroni noodles and cookies, but he can clean toilets, do the dishes and mop the floor better than anyone I know.

5. His heart may be more fragile than mine, but it is never weak.

6. --should be number 1--He has the greatest work ethic imaginable—who else would be able to work in telemarketing full time and go to school full time for over three years? Who else could finish a bachelors and a masters degree in five years with no financial support, a wife, two kids, and so many more challenges that life just throws your way???

7. He holds and honors his Priesthood

8. He is still the hottest guy I have ever met.. dated… seen… whatever.

Help!!!

Now I have made a complete mess of my blog. I am not a computer illiterate, but...

Grandma and Preston

It is 7:30 in the morning and I have sent Preston off to school with his grandma. He was sooooooo excited to get to eat breakfast with her and then show her his school. I am so grateful that my kids have their grandparents in their lives to spoil them in a way that only grandma or grandpa can.

Beautiful Girl

Disney on Ice

Last night was a fun night for the kids, especially for our princess, Anna. We took Grandma and Grandpa with us for this night designed for the most spoiled kids. It really was a lot of fun, I only wish I would have taken our camera.

Just love the hair...

Family fun...

My children love me, but Chris may be questioning himself. I bought these cheap little toys for the kids to paint and put together. I thought it would be fun, and forgot that it would be a huge mess. It is one of those projects you usually avoid until summer when it can be done outside, but I forgot. (maybe it is the pregnancy thing) Chloe got a little frustrated without her own, so Chris pulled her into the kitchen to make cookies--their own little mess. It was motivation to get out the camera, but then I realized I have not even downloaded our Hawaii pictures. I will post one just for good measure.

He did it...his first race.

Friday night Chris and a couple of buddies drove to St. George for their first century of the year. Chris road over 58 miles!!! This is the start of a long season of training, with hopes of racing in LOTJA next fall. That race is 206 miles, from Logan to Jackson. I don't see the thrill, but...

Just a quick intro...

Here we are... I have started this page a few times, but I am always interrupted. I love to read my friends blogs, but I can't imagine having anything worth reading in my own life. We are a simple family three (make that almost four) kids running through the house. I think I may have just contradicted my self, but we really are pretty easy going in our home. (That comes from my husband.)