Spring Break: in photos (lots of them)

The MIM (Musical Instrument Museum) was incredible. This museum featured instruments from every country in the world. The exhibit is interactive and the sounds cue as soon as you walk up to the display. It was amazing finding common threads in so many different cultures. The discovery room at the end was a big hit, too. I would highly recommend going here....just bring some Advil (loved it, but it can be a little overstimulating!)

I have been wanting to visit this place everytime we come to Arizona and I'm so glad I made it happen this time. Ok, really it was Chad who made it happen since he is the one who stayed with the kids so I could "get my art on." I was so intrigued by the beginnings of this desert workshop and it was really neat to move through these spaces the FLW created and lived in. Being in the physical space really gave me an "ah-ha moment" to design philosophy. Fabulous stop for someone who loves art and architecture...pretty sure the kids would not enjoy this (it's pricey, too).

On our way to Bisbee, we made a quick stop in Tuscon for a Sonoran Dog (Mexican hot dog) and to see this old Spanish mission. It was visually beautiful (loved taking lots of photos if you can't tell) and I think it's always great when the kids can be exposed to different cultures and religions. 

Ok, seriously, what a cool town. Think Park City, but kind of cooler; there are so many more old buildings, it's grittier and less commercialized. There are no major chain hotels; pretty much only small, locally owned hotels in old buildings. In fact, we stayed in the old YMCA (Gym Club Suites). We loved walking the streets...it really felt like it could have been 100 yrs earlier. So many old buildings....so much eye candy. One of the highlights was going on a walking ghost tour of the town that night. The kids just loved it.

  

One of the trip highlights for sure! We were going to spend the day in Tombstone, but on the advice of some locals we were told it was just a tourist trap and to head to Rattlesnake Crafts instead. Huh??  What are you talking about?We said the same thing! As if this place doesn't sound strange enough, it was 15 miles of the main room....15 miles of dirt road. That is a lot of dirt road. To be honest, I'm surprised we kept going. We thought for sure we were lost and that we would end up being the storyline for "The Hills Have Eyes 3." This place was so quirky, so unique and so worth it! I have never seen anything like it. A random, historical junkyard in the middle of the desert is the best I can describe it. Just look at those photos; from an old jail ball and chain to old cameras to old war helmets....and even a bear head, this place had a little bit of everything. It was awesome. An old couple from Chicago retired here years ago and they spend their days making crafts from rattlesnakes and gathering (and being given) old junk. They have organized it and generously let anyone wander through. The only stuff for sale are their rattlesnake items (including rattlesnake jerky-they were out when we were there) and rocks. They even have a bin for the kids to pick out some free stuff.

Spring Break: the non-food part

On the way down, we thought it would be a good idea to take advantage of what our own state has to offer. We made a day trip to Bryce Canyon. Although the bad weather arrived just in time for Utah's spring break, we still enjoyed our stop. It was windy and cold and it snowed off and on the whole time we were there. We pretty much drove to each lookout, ran to edge, ohh'd and ahh'd for a minute, snapped a picture and ran back for the car. We were able to do a quick hike outside of the park that was really fun for the kids. For Jenna, it was all about being able to touch the red rocks. The kids were happy to take a dip in the indoor hot tub and pool after such a cold afternoon. We are looking forward to making another trip so we can enjoy more hiking and scenery. 

While in Phoenix, we made a return trip to the the Arizona Science Center. We went last year and loved it so much, we wanted to go back. The kids love all the interactive exhibits. This year the climate exhibit (complete with wind and rain) was a big hit as well as Chad studying the inner workings of a toilet (ahem...I wonder why). 

We stayed at the the Scottsdale Resort . We were pleasantly surprised by how nice it was for the price we paid. Of course the kids enjoyed the pool. They also enjoyed the fire pit at night, making there own hot chocolate in the morning, riding the bikes provided by the resort, a little hide and seek and attending the Easter petting zoo the hotel put on. The grounds were just beautiful and I couldn't get enough of the fragrant orange blossoms. I would highly recommend this place. I'm not sure if rates are always as cheap as what we got, but it's certainly worth checking out. My sister got even a cheaper rate than we did with her AAA card (we booked on hotels.com) While out and about, Ryan drove us by Frank Lloyd Wright's last house he designed. He died before it was completed, the home was in the family until his kids recently died. It's on the market...do you think we can afford it? I'm ashamed to admit that I've yet to visit FLW's desert compound, Taliesin West, where he finished his career. Next trip for sure.

 

To counteract a few of the calories we consumed, we planned a family hike to one of Ryan and Jodi's favorite spots. We hiked a trail in the Superstition Mountains that led to a waterfall surrounded by petroglyphs. Ryan claimed it was an easy one mile in and one mile out hike. Glad he played a trick on us cause I'm not sure the kids would have lasted had they known we did over four miles. It was so cool to get up close to these Indian petroglyphs that are hundreds of years old. More and more, I'm coming to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of the desert landscape. (of course, we were there in spring) The flowers and vegetation were just beautiful (even the "female" cactus I just had to take a picture of...I know, I know I'm 12yrs old).  The weather couldn't have been more perfect (it hovered at 75-80 degrees the whole trip).

We really need to thank Ryan and Jodi for showing us such a wonderful time. We loved spending time with them and are looking forward to our next visit with them!

A little love....

We started the day with a favorite tradition: pink heart pancakes and pink milk. The kids love it (and it's easy, too!) This year the plates greeted them with special certificates and a favorite magazine. (I did say "little" in the title, didn't? lol I'm all for keeping things low-key.) When I was trying to think of a little something to give each of the kids, there just wasn't anything I felt was worth spending money on. Besides, what is Valentine's day all about anyway? What better than a little one-one time with each parent? I think the time spent will be much more rewarding that some silly gift or over-priced game we could have given them. Chad and I said, "No gifts." Apparently, Chad doesn't know what that means. He treated me to my favorite "V" chocolates. I, on the otherhand, am a woman of my word....I gave him a card.
After church, we headed up to Kaysville for a Valentine's dinner and FHE. Crazy and yummy as always. It wouldn't be a Jensen gathering without something spilling, breaking or melting. This time, it was a plastic bottle of sprinkles melting all over the stove. Cameron headed up a great FHE discussion on emergency preparedness. I feel pretty okay with the efforts I made so far, but got some great ideas for improvements and additions. This discussion also served to sufficiently freak out Sarah. lol All in all a great night!

Earlier in the week, we had a great time decorating cookies with Grammy and Papa. G'ma Ginger even came, too! Midweek was consumed with getting the valentine cards filled out and the boxes done. Sarah requested a cupid this year and Andrew really wanted his box to feature D.A.R.E. (the anti drug program he just completed at school). Jenna's preschool teacher requested that the kids not only write their name on all the cards, but the names of the classmates as well. I was so impressed with how well Jenna did...that was a lot of writing! I had a 'sweet' surprise when Andrea dropped off some of her super gorgeous sugar cookies. They were almost too pretty to eat...almost.

A full month of fun!

December is always hectic for sure and sometimes you can see through the stress to realize there is a lot of fun to be had. A few of our December highlights so far have been:

-Ward/neighborhood party: It was catered by the Goodwood BBQ (wow! the church does that? what a fun change!) We also had a visit from Santa. This was fun to watch. At first, Jenna was too scared to see him and Sarah and Andrew were too cool to see him. In the end, none of them could resist the pull of sharing wishes with Santa

-Friend party: The Fletcher's hosted a party this year. Great food and crazy games. Just check out the picture of the guys with deer antlers (ie. panty hose stuffed with balloons). I think adults have more fun playing games than kids do!

-Shopping at the dollar store: This is fast becoming one of the kids favorite traditions. We give each of the children $10 and set them loose to shop for the family at the dollar store. They dodge and hide from each other, then they rush home to wrap their gifts. There are always some fun and interesting gifts. 

-Open houses: Megan and Cameron hosted their first holiday gathering (the first of many, right??). Go Meg and Cam on the domestic front...wassail, treats and a yard full of lights (and one big penguin!).

-Neighborhood parties: The Madsen's hosted a recital with some of the neighbors. The recital was even complete with roses for the guests to throw when the performers were done. From singing, piano, trumpet, to violin...what talent and fun was shared. Such a great event, loved it!

-Relief Society party: What a beautiful party...it looked like a wedding reception...complete with a live nativity on the stage.

-Gingerbread houses: It's become a tradition to decorate a gingerbread house with g'ma and g'pa Medeiros. This kids always look forward to the licking, tasting and time with the g'parents. This year, the kids got to open one gift from them since they will be gone on Christmas.

-Visiting the homeless shelter: The kids and mom had the opportunity to visit the shelter downtown to drop off some donations. This was such a good experience for them. Unprovoked, Sarah donated all her money. I even suggested any donation amount was wonderful, but she didn't hesitate to give it all. The kids were thrilled to be invited inside where they were treated to a photo with Santa and some hot chocolate.

Temple dedication

It still seems surreal to me that we have a temple literally around the corner. It has been an honor to witness the whole process; from construction, to open house and now the dedication. Chad and I were able to attend the first dedicatory session in the temple Friday morning. We sat in one of the sealing rooms upstairs (they really packed people in...even in some of the hallways!). I would definitely have to say that one of the highlights was watching the live feed of the cornerstone ceremony. This is something we most likely would have only seen photos and short media clips of. In this short ceremony we got such a human look at President Monson. I loved seeing him so relaxed and less formal. He did a lot of joking and teasing. He commented to President Uchtdorf's attempt at the mortar, "That's pretty good...for an airline pilot." I loved seeing such relaxed expressions from him...so nice to be reminded of his human-ness. As the dedication continued inside we were able to hear from President Packer and Elder Oaks. As we sung the "Spirit of God," I found knew meaning to the words, "...we'll sing and we'll shout with the armies of heaven." Being inside the temple, I knew we were indeed, singing with the armies of heaven. Sunday afternoon, Chad attended a session with Josh, Andrew and Sarah (I stayed home w/ Jenna and babysat my brother's kids so they could go). Sarah has talked about it several times since and is treasuring her white hanky. I am so grateful for this opportunity we've had as a family to witness and take part in the opening of the Oquirrh Mountain temple.

You know what they say....

....all good things must come to an end. Summer might be winding down, but we are going to make the most of every last bit of sunshine!

Yesterday, we had the opportunity to see the "Body Worlds" exhibit in Salt Lake. I had some people question my judgement on taking my kids. My thought? How could I not take them? I didn't want them to miss this opportunity to see their bodies like they never have before. Beforehand, we talked about what they would see (yes, real bodies...some with "privates" showing). Sarah's only concern was, "What will happen when they are resurrected?" We met my mom and dad and Jeff and Alice. I have to say the exhibit met almost every expectation I had. I thought I'd be a little more blown away (I don't know how), but that being said, it was still very much worth it. Sarah had a little harder time than I thought. Surprisingly, what bothered her the most was the darkness (everything surrounded in black w/ very little lighting), the quiet (only the sound of a heartbeat played along w/ every one's whispers) and she didn't really like the specimens that showed only blood vessels(really nothing more than floating, painted vessels still in the shape of the body). I don't think having eaten Crown Burger right before helped either (while I wasn't at all nauseous, it sat pretty heavy on my stomach...it was a bit warm in there, too). Photos were not allowed, but you can see a great slide show and family guide at the site http://theleonardo.org/bodyworlds/index.php

Some of the highlights were:
-The baby portion. Tiny embryos and fetus'. I never fully realized how developed a 9 week fetus was...amazing. It was hard to see the 23-32 week babies (I have to say baby not fetus). How anyone could believe in abortion is beyond me.
-Seeing diseased organs and bodies. Black smokers lung, brain tumor, severe arthritis, artificial hips still in the body, deformed spine...all amazing and so enlightening.
-The huge camel...soo cool!
-Andrew and Josh got to hold a human heart. Notice their faces in the photo...I absolutely loved their looks of wonder. We also got to play around w/ a microscopic camera...so cool to see your skin so close. You could even see the small flaws in my diamond!
-We couldn't help but think about who these people were. What was there life like? What did they look like? We happily speculated about one body in particular; we concluded she was old and that her body had probably never been able to stretch and move as they had her displayed. I can't help but think she thinks its pretty cool, too.
-Loved the little Leonardo-esque notebooks. (Rachel...totally seems like a little touch you would have done and I wondered if you'd suggested it to your dad! lol) The kids took notes and sketched pictures of what they saw.

A few thoughts about the exhibit. It was very quiet...almost reverent. I had the feeling that everyone there felt only awe and respect for A) the people who donated their bodies and B) the miraculous body itself.

While this gave me a look at the body I've never had before and increased my wonder for it's complexity, I couldn't help but feel a great sense of awe for our spirits. Looking at these bodies was incredible...our bodies are amazing and beautiful, but I feel that it is truly our spirits that make our bodies amazing and beautiful...it's our spirits that bring these bodies to life. I'm sure you're thinking, "duh," but it really is incredible to think of how they work together. I gained a greater appreciation for the body, but it also increased my testimony our spirits...our soul. I really hope if you have the chance to see this you will go. Let me know what you thought...I'd love to hear others insights and feelings.

I feel like life has been pulling me away from the blog. I'm not sure that last week was any busier than any other week, but somehow time flies by and everyday is filled with something. Just thought I'd share a few photos from last week.

As my kids were soaking up the last bit of summer in the backyard, I peeked out the kitchen window and found Jenna and Sarah going to town with the hose and the sidewalk chalk. As soon as I opened the back door, Sarah excitedly pronounced they had created a nebula. I love that girl and the creativity that pops out.

Laundry and junk. Does it ever go away? Of course that is a totally stupid question to ask. It is the bain of my existence. However, I am working really hard on accepting it and trying to enjoy the process of doing. Yea, sounds stupid, huh?
But, it's never going away...I'm just grateful I'm here to do it and that I have people to do it for. As for the junk, I filled several bags from the playroom and kids rooms (shhh...don't tell them). That always feels good. I have MS do a pick up about every other month...I am always amazed that I can find something (make that a lot of somethings, to donate) each time. Funny story. Last month I tried to be up front w/ the kids about the throwing out/donating things. I thought we could all be mature about it. As soon as I asked them to find some toys they could "share" they got really stressed and tearful. They tried to put on brave faces as they handed me a few things to part with. I think I will stick to doing the purging when they're not home!

The remainder of the week was filled with baseball, soccer, Stake temple day, a scout camp out, piano, gymnastics and stake conference. Friday we did some testing with Sarah regarding some concerns and issues we've been having with her eyes and ability to process things. I will post more on that later. After conference on Sunday, we enjoyed the rest of the Sabbath in "nature" ;) with Megan and Cameron. We had a little picnic lunch up American Fork canyon. It was beautiful and the kids loved it...especially throwing rocks in the river!

Ohh, now I know what sucked up all my extra time. One small thing I forgot to mention. I read the first two books of the Twilight series in, oh about 2 1/2 days. Yes, I know, I'm about 2 yrs behind the curve on this one. Loved the first one, found the second one depressing and now I just feel exhausted by their relationship and am slowing down on the third one (only 1/2 through). I think Bella is pretty miserable despite being so in love! lol I'm not a full blown fan, but it feels good to be reading again. I'm sure this bit of trite news will be received w/ shock and laughter by those who read these books long ago and with disappointment and laughter by those who think they are a waste (uh um...Ryan). Either way, I am enjoying the books!

Enjoying Thanksgiving Point

Thank you

Omniture!!

Proof

Sometimes I just need proof that my kids do other things besides watch tv and play video games! ;) They play well together and can actually be quite creative. Like the day they decided to make an art gallery. They worked on paintings and sculptures and attached them to the playroom walls. The sculptures (which were ripped down before I got the photo) cracked me up. They created them by painting a picture, then they crumpled them up into various shapes and taped them to the wall. Too funny. I love seeing them do things like this.

"The best-laid plans...." Part 2

Our efforts to honor President Hickley were not completely thwarted. Grandma Chris knew how disappointed we were last week after trying to attend the viewing. She called yesterday and suggested we meet her (and Aunt Sue) at the Salt Lake cemetery and leave some flowers at his gravesite. As we pulled up, the first thing Sarah said was, "Oh good, there's not a line!" Too funny. There were a few people there when we arrived and a few waiting when we finished, but it was very nice and peaceful. It was touching to see a few handwritten notes left behind. While we were there we also got to see my Uncle Tom's grave. I have fond memories of my Uncle Tom. Sadly he died much too young of melanoma. it was nice to take a moment to reflect on the lives of President Hickley as well as my uncle.

"The best-laid plans..."

I have been suprised at how much a sense of loss President Hinckley's passing has brought to me. My heartaches that he is gone. I really wanted my kids to experience his passing...just as I did when I went to President Kimball's viewing. We tried, we really tried and boy, are we disappointed. We planned on going yesterday. The kids were dressed, but I couldn't find anyone to take carpool so we bumped our plans to today. Apparently the rest of Utah did the same. There were 3 lines going into the Conference Center. Naturally, we picked the longest, slowest one. After waiting in line for 1 1/2hrs the kids had had it (well, mostly Chad). Our toes were frozen and we were told we still had another 1 1/2hrs in line. After making friends with everyone in line around us, we decided to throw in the towel. Josh cried as we walked away(and Andrew is crying as I'm typing this). I assured him that President Hinckley knew we loved him and appreciated our efforts. I think it made the kids feel a little better to give the homeless man playing the accordian some money. ;) And would you believe our adventure didn't end there? We got on the wrong Trax train on the way home...headed to the UofU instead of Sandy. We had to back track our way downtown. As we were waiting at one of the stops, a man saw fit to pull out his girly magazine and shamlessly look at it...not hiding anything. Yes, he really did. The conclusion I came to was that while it would have been neat to go through the viewing, we can show our love appreciation for him just as well from the comfort of our own home.

ETA:

We just got done watching the funeral and we just wept. Josh was sobbing and was so upset he didn't want to go play in his basketball game. I was overcome with emotion as I saw his empty chair and watched him leave the Conference Center for the last time. The video tribute with chior singing at the end was just stunning. What an honor to be witness to his time as prophet. My eyes are red and my head hurts, but my heart is full of love and gratitude for him and the way he lived his life and led the church.

Praying for little Kamberlie and the Binks family

Two weeks ago, a little girl, Kamberlie Binks went missing at Lake Powell. My kids were very upset. As we were discussing things at family prayer on night, we had a discussion on prayers as well as bad things that often happen. I tried my best to teach them that our prayers aren't always answered how and when we think they should be. (Sarah was upset because she had, "prayed for the miners but, they never found them.") The kid's anxiety was building at the thought of scary things happening like injury, separation and especially death. I did my best to assure them that while death is very sad, that we will be with that person again someday. We will miss that person terribly but, we can be reunited. It's hard to teach something that you've never experienced first hand. I only hope that efforts to empathize, love and learn from those that have and are experiencing such loss will prepare us for the day that those experiences come to us. The next Sunday was Fast Sunday. I asked Josh and Andrew what they wanted to fast for. Without hesitation, they both said, "the little girl lost at Lake Powell." Sadly, they found her body in 100ft of water, she had drowned. I suggested the boys now fast for her family. Sarah was at the counter coloring and overheard the discussion. She desperately blurted out, "What?! She died?! Every time on the news, it always happens to girls. Not another girl!" (Yes, dramatic and just how Sarah views the world) I left the room and returned only minutes later to find that Sarah had drawn a picture of her interpretation of the what happened to Kamberlie. I was stunned. I asked her to explain what she had drawn. You see little Kamberlie at the bottom of the Lake (with a frowny face) and her mom (with a snorkel) trying get to her. (fish and fish hook on the right) Notice the word bubble with the exclamation point...she's calling for help. It broke my heart. I was touched that Sarah was able to feel and express her feelings. We have been praying for the Bink's family. I can't imagine what they are feeling. I have been amazed at the faith they've shown.