Mommy Tag

What is something mom always says to you?
Ella: I love you.
Jack: I love you.
Max: I love you.

(Yea!! I asked them all these questions at different times, so they wouldn't copy each other!)

What makes mommy happy?
Ella: When kids clean up.
Jack: When I help her clean up the toy room.
Max: Listening.

What makes mommy sad?
Ella: When the boys put their pull ups on the ground instead of the garbage can.
Jack: When I try to hurt my brother.
Max: Not obeying.

How does mommy make you laugh?
Ella: Every time I say a funny question she laughs and then I have to laugh.
Jack: When she tickles me.
Max: Making silly faces.

What was mommy like as a kid?
Ella: Nice, happy.
Jack: Had a great life.
Max: Liked to play.

How old is mom?
Ella: 33
Jack: 33
Max: 43

How tall is mom?
Ella: 5 feet
Jack: About 4 feet
Max: 5 feet

Whats moms favorite thing to do?
Ella: Spend time with the kids.
Jack: Play with her kids.
Max: Cook (Nope!)

What does mom do when you're not home?
Ella: Clean up.
Jack: Help our family and clean up the house.
Max: She cooks I think.

If mommy was famous, what would she be famous for?
Ella: Dancing.
Jack: Being a great Mom.
Max: A famous dancer.

What is mommy really good at?
Ella: Cleaning
Jack: Helping our family.
Max: Picking up toys.

What does mommy do for her job?
Ella: Cleaning (do you sense a pattern here with Ella?)
Jack: She helps the church.
Max: Helps us.

What is Mommy's favorite food?
Ella: Potatoes, carrots, and corn on the cob. Oh, and cake.
Jack: Salad or Pizza
Max: Pizza

What makes you proud of your mom?
Ella: That my Mom is the best Mom. (I didn't tell her to say that...promise)
Jack: That she can do really good things for our family.
Max: She plays with me.

If mommy was a cartoon character, who would she be?
Ella: Jimmy Neutron because she's really really smart. (I sure have the wool pulled over her eyes huh?)
Jack: Velma from Scooby Doo because she has the same colored hair and eyes. (now I know what to be for Halloween!)
Max: A Rockstar.

What do you and mommy like to do together?
Ella: Go get our nails painted and watch movies.
Jack: Go to the movies.
Max: We like to play with toys.

How are you and mom the same?
Ella: We look alike.
Jack: Our hair color. (I wish!!!)
Max: We like to do the same things.

How are you and mommy different?
Ella: She's done with school and I'm not.
Jack: Our eyes are different colors.
Max: I play and she cooks. (Max thinks about food a lot)

How do you know mommy loves you?
Ella: Because she always kisses me, and she says it too.
Jack: Because she always tells me she loves me.
Max: Because it's in her heart. (no joke, that's what he said)

What time do your kids wake up? 6:00-7:00

On a good night, what time do your kids go to sleep? 8:00pm

How long have you been a mom? 8 years and 4 months

How old were you when you became a mom? 25

What is your favorite kid show? Charlotte's Web

Least favorite kid TV show? Yo Gabba Gabba

Favorite meal to cook? breakfast items...waffles, eggs, pancakes, oatmeal, etc.

What's the meal cooked most often? Waffles and eggs!

What is the kids favorite meal? Tortellini or Waffles and eggs.

What are your favorite things that Paul does with the kids? Wrestle with the boys, takes them to games, golfing, and fixing things around the house.

What are 5 things that make you smile while being a mom? 1)Their mixed up words or phrases. 2)their cute little bums. 3) When they play happily together. 4) Wearing their clothes backwards. 5) watching them sleep.

Where do you want to take your kids someday? Africa or China...to do service.

When was the last time you and your husband went out without the kids? Friday night!

One thing you said you'd never do as a mom? say "because I said so", but I do it all the time...and I now know it's valid.

Favorite past time with your kids? Swimming, reading and movie nights.

Advice for a new mom: Don't sweat the small stuff.

When was the last time your kids said "I love you"? When I dropped them off at school.

New Blog for Thursday Auction For Nie

I have decided to create a blog specifically for my Thursday Auctions for Nie. If you click on the sidebar button it will take you there. I think this will be easier for me and all those wishing to participate in the auction. I will try to post a preview a day or two before the auction, and then all bidding will take place there as well. Thanks so much for everyone who has been participating. Also, if any of you are interested in being an administrator on the blog to conduct your own auctions that would be great! The more the merrier!! So, click on over to see what's on the docket for tomorrow!!

Birds and Bees

Yup! We did it! We had the big talk with Ella on Saturday....and it was AWESOME!! Seriously, it went way better than I thought.

First of all I know there are those of you wide eyed and gasping. I can hear the questions now:

Isn't that too young? She is only 8.

Isn't that too much information?

Won't it just bring up things she's not ready for?

My answer to all those questions is NOPE!!

Of course, I know that each family and parent needs to do what is best for their children, but I decided this was best for us. Here are my reasons:

1- I want to be the first one she hears ANYTHING from that has ANYTHING to do with this subject. In some cases your already too late at 3rd grade, but I read that the overwhelming majority of kids have heard something about sex by 4th grade.

2- At this beautiful age they are old enough to understand the concept, but not so old that they are too embarrassed to talk about it. It's usually not on their radar, so you can put the first impressions in them yourself.

3- I want my kids to know that it's OK to talk to me about it, and anything else they may hear. I figure if I'm the primary source of information then they will come to me to clarify rumors and/or questions. Hey, I'm the one that told them about it in the first place, so it must be OK.

I could list a whole slew of reasons, but I'll send you to the source of my information. It's a wonderful little book written by the famous parents of my amazing cousin Shawni!

It is called "How to Talk to your Child about Sex" by Richard and Linda Eyre. Pretty straight forward. You can also access tips and scenarios from their incredible website Values Parenting. It was so easy and natural. I will forever be grateful for their advice.

Now for how it all went down. We had been telling her that because she was 8 years old she was old enough to learn some really great and exciting things. She kept asking us when we were going to talk about it and she was really curious and excited. A few days before our talk Paul was in on the computer and didn't notice that Ella had somehow found, and was flipping through a book we had gotten to show her a little bit about it.

The book is called, "Where Did I Come From" by Peter Mayle. I walked in to ask Paul a question just as Ella was turning to the page that shows two full page naked cartoon adults! I immediately started laughing and asked Paul if he was aware of what his daughter was doing. He saw and all three of us started laughing. I told her that this was some of the stuff we were going to talk about when we had our birds and bees talk. Then I asked her what she thought it was going to be about, and she said, "gross stuff." We all just laughed and said that it seems gross, but it's actually really exciting. It turned out to be a really good thing because it broke any potential ice and she knew it involved our bodies.

So, when the big day came, we got a babysitter for the other three kids and took Ella to lunch by herself. She decided to go to Paradise Bakery and we sat outside because there was no one else there. After the first few bites I started off with some very mild statements about how much we love her and our family, how important families are, and why Heavenly Father created the family unit. This of course led to how love can make a family grow. Then out came the book she had been perusing earlier in the week.

We really just flipped through it together and added thoughts and feelings along the way. There were a few pages that we taped together because we thought they were unneccesary at this time. (Thanks for the tip Jules) There were only a couple of times she tried to cover up a picture if someone was walking a little close to us, but she paid attention and didn't seem embarrased at all.

I was so grateful because my sweet Ella has so many other things that are more important to her that all the dumb things her parents say. I was afraid that she wouldn't even keep her attention on the subject or care. I was delighfully surprised at how mature and matter-of-fact she was about it. It really convinced me that it was the right age for her. Even though I'm sure a lot of it went over her head, it was a great start. We plan on having some follow up discussions throughout the years and hopefully that in turn will keep the lines of communication open.

So, all in all I would have to say it was a great experience...and...I'm really glad it's over!!

Max Moment

This morning I saw pen all over the walls in our new front room. I was so mad and realized that Nora had been having a blast walking around the room with a pen to the wall. So, I got out the magic eraser and started scrubbing. Nora was in the background saying, "I did it." Max on the other hand said about the cutest thing I've heard in a long time. He said:

"Mom, maybe it will help if I cheer for you?" "Go Mom, go Mom, go Mom!"

He proceeded to cheer me on around the entire room. I seriously wanted to cry it was so sweet. Then when it was all over he said, "Great job Mom, it magically disappeared!" I seriously love that kid.

It's Thursday again!!

Bidding is now open for this fun and versatile "Disco Ball Necklace"!! This necklace can be sized for your preferred length up to 18". So don't let that stop you!! If you need to review the process in bidding click HERE. Thanks and remember to check back every Thursday!!

Preview of tomorrow's auction for Nie

I am posting a preview of what I am auctioning off for tomorrow's Thursday Auction for Nie!! There were only three bids last week for my "not so traditional" necklace, so I'm bringing back the disco ball necklace by popular demand. It is a great one that goes with just about everything! Bidding will start tomorrow morning. Good luck!!

I don't mean to brag...okay, I do!

Phoenix Magazine puts out an issue every year that highlights the top Dentists and top Dental Specialists in the greater Phoenix area. The "Top Dentists" and specialists are selected through a peer-review survey. Phoenix Magazine randomly surveys 1,500 Valley dentists and asks them to nominate those dentists and specialists who, in their judgment, are the best in their field.

I was so excited and proud to see that my husband Paul was selected as one of the Top Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons!!! I was a little surprised because we have only lived here for 2 years, but I guess the good people of Arizona know a good thing when they see it.

For those of you who may not think this is a big deal...

Phoenix is the 5th largest city in the United States.

There is some sort of dental office on EVERY corner here.

Only about 16-18 doctors were chosen for each specialty.

{I can brag this much because it's not about me right?!}

Want to hear something else really cool? My brother David Poelman who is a dentist in the Valley was also voted as a Top General Dentist!!! Seriously, I am surrounded by good people!! I was so proud of these guys. I will now try to go back to being humble...I will try.

I have officially lost all control

And yes, they were all purchased at Wal-Mart.

Utah July 2008 Part 2 - 4th of July

Ahhh, the 4th of July in East Millcreek, Utah! Nothing could be better...seriously. I truly think the 4th is my favorite Holiday. Of course I love Christmas, but it gets too stressful. The 4th is kick back with family and friends, eat good food, and be grateful for God and country. Here are some various pictures throughout the day with captions.
The morning always starts with the annual Millcreek Parade. The kids decorate their bikes, scooters, pogo sticks, wagons, and skateboards, to head down the parade route. So many community helpers turn out for this small part of SLC, UT. I've always said I grew up in Salt Lake City because that is more familiar to people. The truth is I grew up in East Millcreek, Ut...the greatest place on earth. It is right between Sugarhouse (north) and Cottonwood (south).
I was so impressed with my niece Sarah who did her pogo stick the entire length of the parade route.
One of the best parts of the whole parade/breakfast/carnival is seeing old friends and family. I was blessed to grow up next door to President Gordon B. Hinckley's daughter Kathy and her family. One of his other daughters - Jane - lived down the street. These people are just as amazing as you would imagine. East Milcreek is where Pres. Hinckley raised his family and they obviously loved it. The above picture is of many of his children, grandchildren, and great grand children. They put together this banner and float in his honor. I told you East Millcreek is the greatest place in Utah!!
Here is a cute picture of my old neighbor Kathy Hinckley Barnes Walker. It was fun to give her a hug. I hadn't seen her in years.
We were also able to run into our friends the Dalton's. Elaine is the Young Womens General President. I went to High School with their kids and even dated their son Zack for a while. They are amazing people. I actually have to credit them (along with my dad) for getting me into running. I remember one spring that their whole family was going to Moab to run the 1/2 marathon there. I thought that was the coolest thing. I decided then and there that I would run a 1/2 marathon someday!

Of course there were many other friends and family that were fabulous to see, but these were a few of the faces I thought people might recignize. I think I'm looking like a name dropper. I just want my kids to know how great it was to grow up there, and how it produced so many fine people...not just their relatives!!
Here are some fabulous relatives though. This is my sister in law Tee and her Henry. Such good people!
My cute Mom and nephew Zack with his new haircut. Very handsome I must say.
Poor Ella had a bad tumble on the scooter while we were making our way to the parade, so she walked the rest of the way with me. I felt so bad for her because both knee's, elbows, and her back had some pretty mean road rashes. She's a trooper. Here she is having a great time anyway!
Because we were so preoccupied with helping her we didn't realize that Max had taken off on his scooter without us. I figured he was with one of my siblings and their kids. When we got to the bottom of the parade route we realized no one had him. I started to panic when he walked up to me and said, "Mom, I won the race!" He had no idea he was lost and just took off. I cannot believe I ran into him like that. There were swarms of people going in all directions. I'm giving credit to divine intervention for that one!
My sister Shauna and her awesome hubby Brian saved me by taking care of Nora the whole morning. They said it was good practice for getting their little Mary Grace from China (look for a post about that soon). I think they are just plain great! Paul was on a brother's overnighter in Park City, so I needed all the help I could get.
Once we got to the end of the parade we headed to the traditional pancake breakfast. It always hits the spot with bacon, sausage, fruit, and eggs.
There are also a ton of little carnival booths set up for the kids to play. They LOVE THAT.
Because of the carnival games I spent my morning doing this...handing out tickets.
The snowcones are always a favorite. I think we each had three!
Nora kept herself entertained with Grammie's hat!
Later that evening after all the naps, we headed down to Highland Utah were my sister Shauna lives. This is a picture Paul took from her back yard to the back of her house. Isn't this setting gorgeous?! There was plenty of room for the kids to run and play, and the weather was great. I love Utah summers.
The trampoline is always a hit. I need to just get one of these. I know it'll be a matter of days though when one of my kids breaks a bone.
We put the kids to work on the corn. I always remember this being the kids job when I was young. I love seeing my kids do it now.
After dinner we gathered around their awesome fire pit (I told you it was a great backyard) for some SMORES!!
Jack was eager to roast the perfect marshmallow and was very patient waiting for it. That is SO JACK!!
Max and Ella were more worried about how fast they could get them in their mouths. How they are all related is beyond me.
Once it was dark we decided it was time to set off some fireworks. My kids LOVE THIS.
I promise Nora does too, she just prefers them through a filter. It is so funny because this is also how she watches Scooby Doo. She begs for it though! Go figure.
Here are Paul and I with our assigned cameras.
I was trying to see if I could figure out how to keep the shutter open long enough to get my niece Sarah's whole name with the sparkler, but I could never get more than this. (it's backwards) Any of you photographers out there...I'd love some tips.
I might have been able to get it on this one if I had a tripod!
I know I've said it before, but my kids have the best Aunts and Uncles. They really try to get to know them, love them, and take care of them.
It really just warms my heart to know that there are so many good people right here in my own family!
I love this great country of ours and am so proud to call it home. Every July 4th that conviction is strengthened.

Thursday Auction for Nie - Round 2

The auction for this item is now open. Remember, all money will go directly to the Nielson Recovery fund. If you'd rather just make a donation click on the cute blue "donate to Nie Nie" button on my sidebar! If you want to know the rules of the auction scroll down and see the previous post. Thanks.

I have to admit that this is going to be a hard one for me to let go. I LOVE IT! You can click on the image to enlarge it. It is a strand of multi colored stones accented with a large turquoise stone in the middle. I love the peach/coral/olive and cream tones in this one. It's definitely not something you see everyday. I've had a lot of requests for some of the items I listed last week, so I'll bring those back soon. Good luck!

Thursday Auction for Nie - let's do it again!

I had so much fun participating in the Auction for Nie last Thursday that I've decided to make it a weekly event. I will be auctioning of one thing each week and all the money will go to the Nielson Recovery fund. If you want to know how the auction works then here you go:

When can i bid?
As soon as the post appears.

Where do i place my bid?
in the comments section of each item's post. Leave the first comment with the starting bid such as "i start the bid at $20". then the next bidder can submit a comment with their bid like, "I bid $30." and with each bidder to follow they just leave a comment with their price. If you are not familiar with how to leave a comment, just click the word "comments" that you see at the end of the post. It will bring up a pop-up window where you can type your comment. If you don't have a google/blogger account DON'T WORRY! Just click the circle next to the "anonymous" option and leave your bid/comment and your name and email. It's as easy as that!

What amount can i bid?
please keep all bids to an even $1--no change please. example: if the bid is $65.00, then the next bid should be $66.00 not $65.50.

How do i know what the highest bid is?
check the comments. it will be the most recently posted comment.

When does the auction end?
10:00 PM PST every Thursday

What if i win the bid?
If you are the winning bidder, just email your contact information to crazygoodlife@gmail.com. I will also do my best to contact you if you have a blog that is accessible.

How can i pay for the item?
I will have you make a donation to the Nielson Recovery fund directly (cute blue button on the right side of my blog). Once you receive confirmation of payment from Paypal, you will forward me that email. I will then ship the item(s) to you!

Will all of the money go to the fund or just a portion?
ALL OF IT, I will be paying the shipping myself.

So, check back tomorrow and see what's on the auction block! Thanks again for your support!