San Antonio Rodeo and Stock Show

On President's Day we decided to take in the San Antonio Rodeo and Stock Show. Well, we took in the stock show portion. It was an education. It became apparent right off that if you don't know anything about ranching all the equipment looks the same (just different colors).

Next was the lesson that I DO know what I'm talking about. For years I've said that raising my three boys is like herding cattle. Picture proof it is true. I think the people on the horses are cheating plus there is three of them doing it. I'd like to see one of them trying this in a grocery store. Then they would know my pain.

Then there is the food. I've decided anything you find down "food row" is guaranteed to take years off your life.

But the biggest lesson was that my boys have talent. Now don't judge. I know it doesn't look like
much, but those two can twirl a rope with the best of them. Not to mention Doug's acting debut as the bad guy in the shoot out.

Next year we may even make it to the rodeo!!!!

Dan's Big Day

Danny celebrated his eighth birthday in a big way today. Not only were there presents and cake but there was a baptism too.

Yesterday Nana and Papa flew into town so they could be here for the baptism. We went out to to dinner and came back to open a couple of presents. (Dan had multiple days of birthday this year!!) Doug and I gave him the traditional scriptures, scripture case, and his first suit.

Danny has been so excited for his baptism day. He has watched both his brothers take this step and has been anxious for his turn. He asked Papa to give the talk on baptism and Nana to talk on the Holy Ghost. They both did a great job but Dan was so nervous he keep rubbing my hand as I sat beside him. When it was time for the baptism Doug led Dan into the water, rubbed his back, and whispered into his ear a reminder of what was to come next. After the prayer Doug lowered Dan into the water. As Dan came up the steps I wrapped him in his towel and gave him a big hug. His big blue eyes were filled with tears and he was too full of emotion to say much. He just wanted to be held for a minute or two. After both Doug and Danny were changed and Nana gave her talk Doug confirmed Dan with Papa, the bishop, and our home teacher in the circle. It was one of the best days.

After his baptism, we came home to open more presents and have lunch. Along with his scout uniform, Wii game, tie, G.I. Joe blanket, and embosser he received a Build-A-Bear gift card. We were able to spend some time before Nana and Papa were again off to the airport. Dan and I went to Build-A-Bear to get his present. He had so much fun. He picked out his bear, clothing, and sunglasses. He was able to name him and get a birth certificate (so excited that they both have the same birthday). When we went to pay the cashier saw that we were paying with a birthday gift card. When he found out that today was Dan's birthday he rang his bell stopping all the work and had everyone sing happy birthday to Dan. Dan has is small very pleased smile on his face. Once home he played his Wii game, had his birthday dinner (pizza and wings), and we sang Happy Birthday with some cake.

A big day for a big boy!!!

Are You a BYU Fan????

I admit that we have not been BYU super fans in this house but we don't dislike their teams either. We are pretty ambivalent. When there are BYU vs. Utah games we have no opinion as to who will win. And although my sister (Jen) attended school in Provo, my other sister (Kate) attends with her husband in Idaho, and my sister-in-law (Stephanie) attended in Hawaii we have never felt the need to "show our cougar pride" (if they even say that). But after seeing this YouTube clip, we may have to become fans. Anyone that can show this type of class is a team I want to cheer.

Just a little background info. This clip was played to a sell out crowd at BYU (60,000 people) before the BYU-Air Force game on November 21, 2009.

What Do You Do All Day?????

I get this question a lot when people find out that I'm a stay-at-home mom with all three of my boys in school all day. Now I must admit that to some people this situation is unimaginable. Many mothers work or have little ones at home that makes working look like a vacation (I know....I've been there....got the shirt). But after 11 years of young children, husband's education, and a part-time job watching other little ones, I am free.

A couple of years ago when this new situation started to materialize in Cleveland, I did things like volunteer at the boys school a minimum of 6 hours a week and hit the gym. After moving to Las Vegas I took a part-time job watching a darling little girl and volunteering in the boys school at least a few hours a week. When we moved to San Antonio I had plans to volunteer in the boys school again but alas they do not allow parents in the classroom. (Don't ask....I'm not entirely sure why.)

So I have been home doing laundry, cleaning house, and cooking. And one thing I have learned is this: You can clean, cook, and do laundry until you drop down dead AND it will still need to be done tomorrow. I know, I know.....DEEP!!!! I must admit I love a clean home, ironed clothes, and to put a good meal on the table. It makes me happy to see everything in its place. BUT it becomes very unsatisfying to have to do it day after day.

When this thought finally entered my little mind the solution quickly followed. I had time to pursue a hobby. New problem!!! My kids, my husband, and my house have been my hobbies. I have no other hobbies. Sure I enjoy a good book but other than that.... NADA. So I decided to start doing some different "crafts". Now anyone who knows me, knows I'm not "crafty". Scrapbooking could be a bad word in my book. I own a sewing machine, but really don't know why since sewing a straight line evades me. Knitting is limited to dish clothes. But knowing my limitations I have struck out to blaze a new trail for myself.

These are the projects I have done lately:

Beaded Key Chains

(This was an easy way for me to get into beading. Next I'm going to try jewelry.)

Sticky Note Holder

(Another easy way to get into scrapbooking plus it's functional. Don't expect me to jump into scrapbooking.)

CTR Baptism Towel

(I made this one for Danny's Baptism on Saturday. Still trying to sew a straight line and now I'm throwing curves in there. CRAZY)

Scripture Bag

(Learned how to make these a few years ago. This is what I practice my straight lines on.)

Book Covers

(I made one for my scriptures, a composition notebook I use in Young Women's, and my hymnal. I learned how to make my own pattern with this one, plus still practicing my straight lines.)

Bear Hooded Towel

(I made this one for my nephew Jerry's birthday. Again straight lines.)

Now I don't show you all of this to brag, because if you really looked at any of these projects you will see multiple areas that are in need of improvement. But I'm just so stinking proud of my "non-crafty" self that I needed to share.

P.S. Don't be surprised when one or two of my sad projects end up at your house as a present of some variety.