The last activity day of the year

Merry Christmas to all my activity day children - love you all. We had our last activity of the year last week, and I thought I'd record the event. I have put together a small scrapbook of all our activities from this year now, and will pass them on to our Primary President Jenny. I hope that activity days are as much fun next year as they have been this year. I'm especially looking forward to more 'Recognition Evening's'. That was my favourite. So proud of all our wonderful children. What a wonderful programe for our children to be involved in.

Our Tree

I blame Toy Story! Ever since the boys saw it they have strategically placed soliders in the tree. We often don't find them intill we take the tree down. I just don't know how they get in there, they're so quiet about it. This year our tree looks crammed with ornaments, I kinda like it. We even splashed out on new LED lights, we had to really. We remembered as we put the tree up that we had been without lights last year, we had placed them on the tree and switched them on and they hadn't worked. We couldn't be bothered to take everything off again, so it just stayed that way throughout Christmas. Our hope was to buy in the January sales, that obviously didn't happen. Anyway, we're pleased with the lights we have this year - long may they last!

Santa's List

I had so much fun making up these Christmas tree scrapbook pages (Shabby Princess), I've attached copies to my fridge so that I can record all the nice things the boys do leading up to Christmas. We haven't really done the 'Father Christmas' thing with the boys in the past, Jarom is proud to know the truth. Tayler on the other hand, no matter how much you tell him it isn't real, is so trusting, he believes anyway! I guess I have been a little to serious and didn't want to deceive the boys, and have them be upset when they did find out. This year we've managed to find a happy medium. We've tried to be a bit more magical, in order to make Christmas special, we always add 'just pretend' when we talk about good old St. Nick, but it's all good fun. After all, this is me we're talking about, my favourite movie is 'Elf', and I cry everytime I see the 'Miracle on 34th Street'! I just love Christmas!

Gordan B. Winckley

I felt impressed today to scrapbook this memory of Tayler being particularly funny. The innocence of children is just wonderful. He has now grown up and calls the prophet by his proper name - President Gordan B. Hinckley. These moments seem to come and go so quickly.

We went to our Stake Conference today and saw so many dear friends, it seems as though we've been in a time warp for the last 6 months, all of their children have grown so much too. Where does the time go? Unless you try to record it, it'll just slip away and be forgotten. Sadly,I know I can't hold it back from moving on.

Snow is my favourite and my best!

I bought Tayler a new Christmas book this week about Charlie & Lola and he's been talking about how much he loves snow ever since. He's even praying for snow! I'll leave the answer up to the Lord, though we have tried to explain that it may not be in everyones best interests if it snows. I remembered these photos that Jason took afew years ago of the boys at Wallaton Park in Nottingham. The boys were so lucky to experience snow like this, it hardly ever snows like this in Weston-super-Mare.

Measles?

Our adventure for the week was Tayler's suspected Measles. We're pretty sure he had it, although the chances were slim. He wasn't really poorly with it, I guess the MMR jab had it's uses. My boys just seem to pick up these illnesses. Jarom had Mumps even though he had had the jab. He's all better now - no more spots, and looking forward to Christmas. Lets hope we get all our illnesses out of the way before then.

Family Home Evening Planner

We've wanted a family home evening planner for ages. I made this one a few weeks ago. So pleased with how it came out. Above it is our primary scripture of the month. For the planner I took a normal wooden picture frame and screwed hooks into the wood, then attached ribbon to wooden hearts with assignments written on - 'scripture', 'lesson', 'activity' etc... It's helping to keep us organised!

Almost Christmas

Now that the Primary activity days are almost over for the year, I can get to thinking about Christmas. I've done most of my shopping - Jarom has this and Tayler has this. I can't wait for the big day myself. I just love giving gifts. There's also the decorating and food to think about too. I'm hoping to keep it simple this year, but memorable for the boys. We are looking forward to our trip to see Great Grandpa in Bournemouth and Granny and Grandpa in Nottingham. I'm also really looking forward to Tayler's Nativity play next week and Jarom's Carol concert the following week.

Primary Activity Day Recognition Evening

Last night's activity day was a huge success, so glad it all went well. I was so proud of the children and all they did. My son even joined in with the singing and dancing, he even had the confidence to do some freestyle dancing and did a handstand flip - very cool!

Jarom's Tie

My Smart Boys

Yesterday was the yearly Primary Sacrament Presentation at church. I had bought a new tie for Jarom last week and he actually liked it. I guess that had something to do with the tiny skulls that were on it. I know it's abit of a contradiction - a tie to wear to church with skulls on. Hmmm. I'm usually very careful about what I buy for my boys. They're getting to the stage where they don't like my choices, in fact they've been like that for a while now. My difficulty is that there's not a lot of choice for my boys in the shops, the majority of clothes for their age group are covered in skulls and dark logos, it's really hard to find something decent. However on this occasion I caved in, I just knew Jarom would love this tie and he'd wear it. Great no more Sunday clothes battles!

As for the Primary Presentation. It was great. The children got to say their own words this year - I love that. Why have it any other way? I was especially proud of my boys. When they spoke they were both very clear and nice and loud without being to overbearing - perfect. They both had ago at singing. And Tayler just about managed not to draw too much attention to himself, although he didn't manage to sit on his bottom for too long, he wasn't too bad. He loved sitting by Jason who blessed the sacrament yesterday and even, despite our best efforts to stop him stood reverently when the Priesthood did. I guess he just loves to see Daddy at work and wants to be like him. He does the same thing with Grandpa and Uncle Richard. Long may it continue!

Activity Day - Recognition Evening

It seems as though the last week's activities have all been centered around my church calling. That isn't exactly true, but it has taken much of my time and thought. This weeks activity was in preparation for next week's 'Recognition Evening'. Recognising the children's achievements and goals accumplished is an important part of the programme, so we thought we'd have an evening celebrating them, awarding them certificates and watching them sing and dance. They all love High School Musical, so I thought why not teach them a dance routein and the song so they can perform it. I huge thank you to everyone who has helped out - esp. Lauren, Sarah and Nick. The children are incredible, they seem to remember everything, all the dance moves, just fantastic. I'm so impressed with the boys, getting involved and enjoying themselves.

My scrapbook page is a lame attempt to recreate the High School Musical cover, with all the children from this week's activity. They were so impressed when I told them my camera could take their picture whilst in mid-air, so we had a go. Managed to capture most of them. Such good fun. I'm sure the parents will enjoy looking at this picture. Poor Callum at the front, just couldn't find a good picture that I'd taken of him, never mind.

Tuesday Night Activities

We had so much fun last night at our activity day that I just had to scrapbook a picture. The children all came dressed up and really got into the spirit of things. So glad they did, we all had so much fun. I hope they took from it the creativity that can come from books and how blessed me are to have freedom to read. Just can't imagine where I would be personally without literature. I love to read, trying to pick a favourite book is like trying to pick a best friend, I just couldn't, I love so many, and all for different reasons. I love books!

Happy Halloween

We've had such a fun time as a family this evening. The boys have been talking about Halloween for ages. It's not such a big tradition in this country, as hard as that might be to believe. It tends to be more scary than family orientated and unfortunately those that do like to celebrate with fun, sweets and pumpkins are criticised. The boys wanted to dress up (very unusual for Jarom) - Jarom as Horrid Henry's dark avenger and Tayler was a cross between Darth Maul 'Star wars' and Superman. We had our own fun as a family and bobbed for apples, carved our pumpkin and watched 'Harry Potter'. The boys had a great time. We only had two 'trick or treaters' and we had some sweets in and wished them a very happy Halloween. We live in a very family friendly neighbourhood and it was great to see dad's out with their children.

Having investigated and done my own research today on the traditions associated with Halloween, it appears to be an amalgamation of several ancient celebrations both celebrating the season and where spirits return to earth for 48 hours - both good and bad for a second chance to 'do what they do'. It's only today's modern slant that has made it evil. I found this quote from Rev George Loane, I liked what he said about Halloween and the celebration of All Saints day. He said - "It was derived originally from an ancient Pagan festival, it has become part of our culture and generally it's an innocent excuse for people to have a good time. Literally, of course, it is the eve of All Hallows - a preparation for the observance tomorrow of the Feast of All Hallows or All Saints. That feast gives the assurance that there is a state of being that stretches beyond our life here on this earth - an affirmation of the essential spiritual nature of human life. People are made for more than can be experienced over our lifetime spent in this world... So this Christian season brings us a comforting reminder that there is a destiny designed for us humans that assures us of a continuing existence."

Although I am not of the same faith as this man I recognise that he has found inspiration in a tradition of the past, he recognises that we can find goodness everywhere that can lift us and strengthen our faith. I agree with that. Unfortunately England seems to be loosing much of it's faith and spirituality and with it the simple fun traditions and neighbourly kindness of celebrations such as Halloween.

October

Well, finally got around to scrap booking and organising. I've spent the day tidying the office. I am so grateful for the office space, I'm just not so grateful that it's the messiest room in the house and constantly needs cleaning and tidying. At least I've had some time to myself today to do it whilst the boys have been at school. I am very blessed. I do miss them a little today, as it's the first day back after the holidays, but I try not to show it. Don't want them to get the tiniest hint that I don't want them to go or I'll never get them out of the door in the morning. They'll be home soon and we'll be able to sit together and have some quality time doing homework.

'Tag' You're it!

Well, I've been 'tagged', haven't played that game for sooo long. So here they are pictures from when I was 18. In fact these were all taken the week before my birthday, but I think that still counts. All were taken in Missouri USA, from the best holiday I've ever had! Such great memories, glad I have a few pictures to remember it by.

A walk in the woods

Yesterday we took the boys to the local woods for a bike ride and a play before church. I took along the camera and took some nice pics. I was really pleased with the lighting and it was a really overcast day. I'm slowly getting used to the camera. It's taking some time - this light stuff isn't easy!

New Camera

Well, we finally did it. Took the plunge and bought a super duper all singing all dancing digital SLR. And I love it. I now have to try and work out how to use the thing. Sounds crazy doesn't it. I was never blessed to own a camera until recently, but I seriously love photography. Having the real deal now is just incredible. I knew it was going to be hard, and one day if I practice real hard - the perfect exposure will be there every time I point and shoot. Looking forward to that day! But right now my brain hurts a little with all the stuff I'm trying to remember!

My boy was baptised!

Jarom's baptism went so well on Sunday, we all had a wonderful time. The chapel was packed, I didn't expect so many people to come. We had promised everyone chocolate fudge cake afterwards, that may have helped.

Jarom had arranged the programme and had wanted people he loved and knew to take part. He asked Tayler (his brother) to speak about Jesus. He gave the most hilarious talk all in his own words which he had memorized. We were so proud. He's a little performer though, and once he knew he had the attention of over a 100 people he was in his element. He told of Jesus being killed by the bad guys, and Jesus performing miracles like walking on the water and calming the storm. He said 'Peace, peace be still' about 5 times by which time the whole congregation were in hysterics.

Auntie Katy also spoke, Jacob Munday, Danika and Jonathan Beale his cousins too. Everyone bore a different testimony about the principles of the gospel. It was wonderful. The Spirit was very strong. Jarom was baptised by Jason and it was witnessed by Tim & Josh Morgan (world's best home teachers!) Jenni Burton and Emma Smith conducted and played the music. Emma played the most beautiful piece of music by Paul Cardall - Baptism. It was wonderful.

Jarom's confirmation was wonderful too and he was given a beautiful blessing. We closed the service with all the men & boys singing 'Armies of Helaman' from the stand. It was truly amazing and all for our boy! How blessed we are to have a son like Jarom. So talented and clever and sensitive too. We love you buddie!

My little run away!

I've now lost count of the amount of times Tayler has done a runner on me, and today he decided to add again to the stress and worry I have when he's off! This morning I lost him whilst we were in the school playground once again. It didn't help that he was wearing his school uniform ready for this afternoon, so everywhere was a sea of white and blue, sometimes I could spot him in his jeans, but not today. He has no fear and a mind of his own. In some ways I don't want to squash his confidence with 'stranger danger' worries, but I just can't take the stress anymore when I loose him! My stay safe rules are - 1) stay where you can see mummy (then I can hopefully see him too, it's not fool proof I know, but if he can't grasp that, he's never going to get stay where I can see you!) 2) Ask before you go anywhere (nope this one doesn't seem to be working either, my boys haven't learnt the concept of asking, it's demand and whine!) I usually enlist as many mother's as possible to man every exit and search for him. I'm well experienced at organising a search party now ranging from beaches, parks and supermarkets to leisure centres, school playgrounds and garden centres. You name it, I've probably lost Tayler there.

So today when I found him sitting on the assault course at the furthest end of the playground to where I was standing I really let rip. Probably not a great idea as our head master was showing around new pupils and parents at the same time, within hearing range, but I was so worried and felt I needed to try and hit it home to my son that he's done this one time to many times and I am mad! Well my "I'm really, really, really cross with you! This is very, very, very naughty" had the desired effect and his little face started to pout and then the crying starts. Good I'm thinking, maybe he's got the message. But no, instead of - "I'm so sorry mummy, I'll never do it again" I get - "I'm so sad, when you get cross at me, you're so naughty. My Jesus is not happy with you!" What is a mother to do! I'm in support of leashes for children and Global Positioning Systems anything that helps me keep track of my son. I'll never know how I managed more than my two boys, it's a miracle I never lost any of them. In my defense I'd say I was quite a vigilant mother, well you'd be if you'd lost Tayler as many times as I have, but what do you do with a little Houdini?

Tayler's First Day At School

Just had to scrapbook this momentous day - Tayler's first day at school. He had a great time and took it all in his stride. The teacher's commented on what a great little boy he is. Hopefully it will stay that way. Tayler is only at school in the afternoon for the next week, then mornings, then full time. I'm so looking forward to a little space to myself, I have so much office work to do it's unbelievable. The scrapbooking kit I used was from 2peas and the photo frames are from Heather Ann Designs.

Using Windows Live Writer to publish posts

Found this useful link to Windows live writer. Hopefully will give more flexibility to posts.

More photos from camp

Family Camp

Just returned from a great camp. Big thanks to Emma for organising us all, we had a great time. The weather was just perfect and we just love the Doone Valley, it get's so chilly at night though. This year I had it sorted - fleecy pillowcases! An absolute must for camping. Don't you just hate that dewy feeling when you wake up in the morning? I do. That 'I daren't move my head it's so cold feeling' - I do. I had none of that this year with my fleecey pillow! I'll probably sew some as Christmas gifts for all my fellow camping friends!

Well it's back to school soon and I went to get the boys feet measured for their new shoes this morning. Jarom's had grown a whole shoes size - whooppee. Seems as though he's been a 10 & half for years. Tayler has also gone up a size. I didn't like the choice much in our local clarks shoe shop, so nipped into Sainsbury's and got the boy's shoes there at half the price. Jarom is pleased too because for the first time he has shoes with flashing lights.

I have tons of washing to do and a house that looks like a bomb site - so much to do after a holiday, I'll be needing another!

A Sunday Walk

Yesterday Jason took the boys on a walk to Sand bay. They had a great time and although the weather wasn't great they loved it. They spotted lots of local wildlife and picked me a beautiful bouquet of wild flowers. Thanks boys! After the walk it was home for lunch then off to church.

In the evening I attempted to cook Mediterranean roast chicken and vegatables, it was a bit of a disaster. I haven't cooked quite that badly in a long time. I'm determined I will be a better cook one day! I think I'll post a few favourite recipes to share when I have time.

Holiday with Grannie & Grandpa

We've just got back from a week's holiday with Grannie & Grandpa. I thought it would be nice to spend some time with them and thought the boys could do with a change of scenery. Unfortunatly Jason wasn't able to come, he had so many work commitments, we did miss him. The boys had fun playing in a pool we bought for the garden and loved being towed around it on body boards until they learnt to propel themselves. They played in it every day sometimes until quite late and even when the weather wasn't that warm - very much worth it! We also visited somewhere different each day - Wollaton Hall, Green's Mill, & Nottingham University Park, the boys were so exhausted at the end of the week they begged just to be able to stay at home and chill out! It will be good to make this a yearly family tradition - so much to do in Nottingham.

Preparing for Jarom's Baptism

We're working towards Jarom's baptism which we hope will be in September. We've been preparing him all year with family home evenings and discussions about testimony. We hope he's ready to make this big step. We can finally say it's only a month away now. So of course it's time to plan the programme and send out the invitations. I made this earlier today to go on the front of his invitation. I love all these photographs of Jarom, my favourite one has to be the top right. It's so good to see him enjoying himself so much. This particular picture was taken by Jason on Father & son's camp 2006 in Wales. Jarom was the only boy to enter the freezing cold sea water, he loved it and stayed in longer than most of the adults. A proud moment showing his strong determination and character. I just love seeing him so happy! The other pictures here were taken in different times and places. I think they reflect the many aspects of our brillant son Jarom!

My Brother's wedding

It's great to be able to share scrapbook pages now. I made this a few days ago following my Brother's wedding. I loved being with family mambers and thought it was the most important memory to scrap.

My First Blog

I've been looking for a way to share information and journal for some time now. I've read several other 'blogs' whilst surfing the net and wondered whether I could do the same. I guess I can.

Well it's the first week of the summer holidays and the boys are busy fighting and playing as usual. They've been very good so far this summer and have enjoyed being in the new house. They particularly enjoy the garden and playing outside the front of the house. Tayler has finally learned how to use his scooter and Jarom has been showing him just how speedy he can be.