A glimpse of the Shields Pad

Good Read Aloud

2012-02-04T17:03:00.000-08:00

If you know me you know I'm always looking for good books to read with my kiddos. This one was a big hit with Tessa (10). I'd recommend it!

Family Night Fiasco

2012-01-29T10:51:00.000-08:00

MY CRAZY KID

So last week for family night, Tessa helped Tyler prepare his lesson. They worked really hard on it and even practiced in Tyler's room a couple of times. Tyler told Tessa, "this is going to be the best family night I've ever given!"

The lesson was about holding to the iron rod. They got out a long rope but left it on the ground. They wanted to demonstrate that it's much easier to get where we want to go if we hold to the rod (rope).

Tessa tied a blindfold on Tyler, spun him around and told him to walk across the room. He practically ran head first straight into our big TV, knocking over one of the huge stereo speakers, which hit the wall so hard that a huge vase/flower arrangement came crashing down on his head. This hurt him and shook him up, poor small feller. I guess you could say he really figured out how damaging it can be to not hold to the iron rod.

Tessa felt awful. I comforted him, but it was so hard. Maybe you had to be there, but the whole scene was so funny. While everyone else was laughing into their sleeves I had to keep it together. I gotta say, it was really hard not to bust up laughing.

Needless to say, we didn't end up finishing the family night lesson. Tyler was NOT happy. It's one of those moments we'll retell and laugh until we cry someday, but that day won't be anytime soon for Tyler.

Keepin' it Real

2012-01-09T09:57:00.001-08:00

Tessa took this picture with her new Christmas camera.

Most of my entries are about the best times we have as a family. This one, I'm keepin' it real. After lots of thought, Jeff and I decided to try to have one more kiddo. As you know, Nathan is over 6 years younger than Tyler. We both wanted him to have a sibling to grow up with.

I am 9 weeks pregnant. We are super excited that our plan is working out. This baby is due the beginning of August. I am sick (as you all could've guessed). I'm pretty much home-bound and in survival mode.

Jeff and the kids are a HUGE help when they are home. When they are not, Nathan is into lots. With me spending most of my time on the couch, I've learned about how many items can be placed in the toilet from the garbage, how much dirt can be removed from a single plant, how many dishes can be removed from the dishwasher and every drawer in reach and how much dog food can be placed in the water bowl.

As hard as it is, he does brighten my days so much. He has such a sweet disposition and more than once his whole-mouth open kisses have made my entire day. I just have to remind myself that all the suffering of nausea and shots will be worth it in the end. That's the way I've gotten through all of it every time. I would do it again for each of my kids. You just can't put a price on sharing your life with each individual member of your family. For me, these relationships are what life's all about.

(HUGE) Christmas Tree Cutting Adventure

2011-12-14T13:34:00.000-08:00

We (everyone but Jeff for some reason) LOVE going up into the mountains and cutting our tree each year. We sing carols, play in the snow, eat donuts, drink hot chocolate and watch Dad do the work. This year we went with our friends, the Gambills. It was awesome!!!

Playing in the snow with "Flash"

Getting Stuck

(gotta love those rednecks saving you)

Our big ol' tree (it really is HUGE) - Jeff is the one who picked it (not us)

Kiddos enjoying the trip

Trunk or Treat

2011-11-11T18:38:00.000-08:00

GREAT QUOTE

2011-11-11T09:13:00.001-08:00

FIRST CHANGE MYSELF

When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits I dreamed of changing the world.

As I grew older and wiser I discovered the world would not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country. But it, too, seemed immovable.

As I entered my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I sought to change only my family, those closest to me, but alas! they would have none of it.

And now as I lie on my deathbed and realize (perhaps for the first time) that if only I’d changed myself first, then by example I may have influenced my family and with their encouragement and support may have bettered my country, and who knows, I may have changed the world.

—Inscribed on the tomb of an Anglican Bishop (1100 A.D) in the crypt at Westminster Abbey in London

MY TREASURES

2011-11-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

Baby Nathan is getting bigger!

2011-07-19T11:15:00.000-07:00

Swimming Fun

2011-07-19T11:11:00.000-07:00

Cherry Picking Time!

2011-07-19T11:08:00.001-07:00

So much fun picking cherries with friends!

Oregon Coast

2011-07-19T10:16:00.000-07:00

My sister Cindy and her family came to visit from Utah. We had the best time. Here are some photos of the coast, river and boating.

Salamanders we caught

River-running in the Rogue River

Beach fun

Redwoods

Once Upon America Series

2011-03-20T17:14:00.000-07:00

I've found a great collection of historical fiction books for kids. They are called, "Once upon America." They are really interesting and tell different stories of periods of American History between the early 1800's up through mid 1900's. Tessa and I have read about gold mining and San Francisco's Chinatown so far. You can look up the series online. Our library has all of them.

The little Fella is getting bigger!

2011-03-11T12:17:00.000-08:00

Nathan is 3 months old!

Our "BIG" snow storm left enough to play!

2011-03-11T12:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day 2011!

2011-03-11T11:58:00.000-08:00

Jeff got a surprise when he finished work!

Tyler is 100 years old on the 100th day of school!

2011-03-11T11:53:00.000-08:00

Tyler and Elijah tried their best to look old and decrepit.

Our new property in the forest!!

2011-03-11T09:19:00.000-08:00

We got a great deal on some land 45 minutes from our home. We want to build a cabin on it someday. These pictures feature the best parts. We love the creek, little pond and small sledding hill.

The trees are gorgeous too!

Nathan's Infant Pictures (10 days old)

2011-01-21T16:39:00.000-08:00

Baby Boys First Outing

2011-01-21T16:21:00.001-08:00

you shouldn't toot your own horn, but

i pretty much won this game

in the words of nacho libre

i wanted to "weeeeeeeen!"

Baby Feller is getting bigger!

2011-01-21T16:15:00.000-08:00

Tyler "playing" with his

baby bro

His eyes are actually open!

Tessa turns nine!

2011-01-21T16:11:00.000-08:00

Tessa was a great sport about

Mom having a baby so close to

her Birthday. She even made

her own cake (yes the dolls head

is on fire- oops)!

Favorite Quote

2011-01-02T14:24:00.000-08:00

"As his followers, we cannot do a mean or shoddy or ungracious thing without tarnishing his image. Nor can we do a good and gracious and generous act without burnishing more brightly the symbol of Him whose name we have taken upon ourselves. And so our lives must become meaningful expression, the symbol of our declaration of our testimony of the Living Christ, the Eternal Son Of the Living God."

Gordon B. Hinckley

MORE FELLER PICS

2010-12-12T11:43:00.000-08:00

Our Brand New Baby Boy!!!

2010-12-09T13:02:00.000-08:00

Nathan Charles Shields

Arrived on the 7th of December, 2010!!!

He weighed 7 lbs 1oz and was 20 inches-

My anesthesiologist was the best (Jeff)! My favorite delivery by far. It was so easy and painless.

Nathan is such a calm little guy. He is being held just about 24/7 between his parents and 3 older siblings. Tessa is winning as far as hours held per day.

He is still pretty mixed up with his nights/days, but sure is a keeper. We are so thankful he is healthy and here!!!

Gingerbread Fun

2010-12-06T21:03:00.000-08:00

Snow in MEDFORD!

2010-12-06T21:01:00.001-08:00

ALMOST DONE!!!

2010-11-20T08:52:00.000-08:00

My sweet friend Lisa and her daughter Olivia gave me the best baby shower! I got a tons of cute clothes and blankets for this little fella. I felt so loved! I can finally see the end.

I even included a pregnancy picture for those of you who've asked. I did think twice before showing everyone my 40+ extra pounds!!!

True Love

2010-11-05T14:19:00.000-07:00

I've wanted to be a baked potato for Halloween for a while. Jeff spent tons of time on my potato costume this year. It was perfect, especially since I'm huge and pregnant anyway. Now that's true love!

Tyler's 6th Birthday Bash!

2010-11-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

Jumping Boy

2010-11-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

Kindergarten Pumpkin Patch Trip

Seems to be a theme at the Pumpkin Patch- Tyler the JUMPING BEAN!

I love how enthusiastic he is about life!

Sierra's 12th Birthday Bash!!!!

2010-10-27T20:21:00.000-07:00

We have a 12 year old! Sierra's officially in Young Womens now. It's feels pretty strange! Are we old enough for this?

We had such a great party with 9 of her friends. They did, "Amazing Race" in the mall. The reward was going to the local spook alley and getting scared silly. Sierra said it was her favorite party ever. It took some planning, but was worth it.

Cute Soccer Quotes

2010-10-26T21:33:00.001-07:00

Tyler just started his first year of soccer. It's been pretty amusing. The first game, a dad was keeping score (not supposed to- but you know the type). He informed the team that they were down a bunch of points. Tyler yelled across the field to me, "hey mom, they are keeping score! We are 2 and the other team has 6." Then before I could say anything, he said, "it doesn't matter, right mom, it's just a game?"

At half time, his coach asked the boys what they thought they could work on for the second half. Tyler said, "Oh, I know. We could give them a magic potion." The other team members quickly agreed, "ya" they said, "it could make them fall asleep and we could kick tons of goals!"

Their coach started laughing and replied, "man, I just love this age," and sent them back out onto the field.

"Fellery"

2010-10-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

We call Tyler, "Feller" a bunch. The other day, Tessa said, "I hope this next boy isn't as Fellery as Tyler."

Wish I'd had my camera!!

2010-09-26T15:23:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I took the kids down the Rogue River in our Tahiti rafts yesterday. It was so much fun. We had three rafts. The kids ended up in Sierra's raft down most of the river. Jeff and I enjoyed the peace and quiet in our own rafts.

It was such a beautiful day and we had quite an adventure. We saw tons of salmon swimming up-river. Tessa caught a two foot salmon with her bare hands and let the other kids hold it also! Jeff caught the weirdest looking big, red newt that I had spotted. It looked prehistoric. We all took turns holding it. Jeff also caught a water snake. We saw a doe and her fawns. We also saw many fish jump all over the river. Tessa and I spotted a huge fish right in front of our raft that zipped past us, super fast, and splashed us with it's fin! We also watched many different birds and checked out a huge eagle nest.

It was one of those experiences that exceeds your expectations. I so wanted a beautiful nature day before the winter months and I got it!

Nature GUYS...

2010-09-23T14:49:00.001-07:00

Tessa gets to pick a fun activity at the end of the homeschool

day. These are some nature creations we made together.

HI - YA!

2010-09-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

Tessa and I had fun making a Roman Soldier costume after

studying the fall of the Roman Empire!

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL PICS

2010-09-23T14:30:00.000-07:00

Tyler-Kindergarten-Hoover Elementary

Tessa-3rd Grade-Homeschool

Sierra- 6th Grade-Hoover Elementary

Last Minute Fun

2010-09-14T16:16:00.000-07:00

We missed the first week of school to have some end of summer fun.

We chose a short cruise to Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico.

World's Largest Blow Hole

Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Cool Robot Guys

Mexican Drummer

We also visited Chrissy and her family in Long Beach. The kids loved all her pets!

We had to take advantage of the ease of travel before BABY makes his entrance into the world.

Rope 'em Doggies

2010-09-04T20:57:00.001-07:00

The Farm

(These Pictures Speak For Themselves)

Rock Climbing Camp

2010-09-02T21:54:00.001-07:00

Sierra and Tessa spent a week rock climbing and loved it!

Plucked Straight from the Tree

2010-08-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

Growing up with an orchard in the backyard, I learned mighty early that fresh peaches were about the most delicious thing on the planet. I loved to find and pick the juiciest peach I could, then I would eat it right under the tree with nectar dripping down my face.

Sadly, my dads orchard is now miles and miles away. Here in Medford we've found a farm where we go each summer and pick ripe peaches. My kids still get to experience that same mouth-watering experience.

We have been eating peaches for weeks. I'm still not tired of them. If only fresh peaches lasted all year long, I'd be in heaven!

Mo Willems is THE BEST!!!

2010-08-27T11:06:00.000-07:00

We stumbled across the best author ever at the library this past week. His books are hilarious! Tyler has read and re-read each book a bunch of times to anyone who will listen. I just love finding books that my children LOVE to read. We even read some at the dinner table and the whole family enjoyed!

Here are a couple of the titles: I Love My New Toy!

Pigs Make Me Sneeze

I will Surprise my Friend

Not the same chickens...

2010-08-27T11:01:00.000-07:00

Reggie and his friends ended up in the dogs teeth. The gate had a little issue...

Jeff did get four full-grown chickens for his Birthday and we've been enjoying their eggs. We hope if the gate malfunctions, these bigger chickens will have some fight in them!

Tessa's Swim Party

2010-08-27T09:49:00.000-07:00

While Dad's Away, We Play!!!

2010-08-09T20:58:00.000-07:00

Jeff and his Dad spent the past week fishing in Alaska. This photo was taken of their best fishing day. The weather was gorgeous and they came home with loads of fish.

Since the rest of us stayed home, we planned a stay-cation. We think of special things we normally don't do and have lots of fun, so the time will fly by.

I took each of the kids on their own special date to break the week up. Sierra went to the show. Tessa got her ears pierced and nails done. Tyler chose the, "Family Fun Center."

We had a great time. They each got to sleep in Dad's spot in the bed for a night (that wasn't my favorite with their acrobatics).

Friday we all went to, "The Farm" together. It has the best petting zoo I've been to. The kids spent an hour petting all the creatures. They also fed them and rode the ponies.

The night Jeff was arriving from the airport we had a late night swim. I threw a bunch of loose change in the pool and the kids had a blast diving for the money. We finished with hot chocolate, then headed to the airport in our swimsuits. Luckily, Jeff was waiting for us on the curb!

Sun Oven Cooking

2010-08-03T11:54:00.000-07:00

My sisters talked me into getting a sun oven. A solar oven uses sunlight as its energy source. It uses no fuel and cost nothing to run. So far, I've baked cookies, yummy chicken and a potato casserole with great results. All you need is the sun and you can boil water or bake. I am pretty impressed it worked so well.

Primary Pool Party!!!

2010-08-02T21:40:00.001-07:00

Aunt Marilyn and Aunt Karen's Visit

2010-08-02T21:33:00.000-07:00

We had a fun visit with Jeff's aunts as they passed through Medford on their way to California from Portland.

We're having a boy!

2010-07-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

We found out yesterday that we are having a boy. Jeff couldn't hide his elation. He saw and called it, even before the tech could! Tyler is excited to have a brother and wants to name him Tyler. How's that for original?

We were so happy that he looked healthy. That is sure the most important thing.

Utah Quackenbush Family Reunion

2010-07-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

Tyler Feeding Grandma's Pig and Goats

Tessa jumping off the dock at Payson Lake

A bunch of family on the dock

Tyler catching a fish

Playing outside in Cindy's backyard

Utah has such pretty canyons. I always love to get out in nature as much as I can when we visit. We took a hike to my sister Cindy's favorite waterfall close to her house in Centerville. Her boys got right under it and soaked themselves. Daniel saved the day by carrying the kids down a cliff. He might be half mountain goat!

Swimming Under the Stars

2010-07-13T13:41:00.000-07:00

We all need to escape from the ordinary every once in a while. Our late night swim was super fun with cousins and friends. We'll have to do it again soon!

Tyler's not Pregnant

2010-06-28T15:40:00.000-07:00

Tyler drank a sip out of my straw. He looked at me all paranoid for a second and then said, "I drank out of your straw, but don't worry, I won't get pregnant because I am a boy.

HARRY POTTER

2010-06-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

We started reading Harry Potter aloud as a family recently (I get everyone their own copy at the library). It's a great series to keep the kids attention. We are presently reading, "The Chamber of Secrets."

Our most favorite part is, "Movie Night" when we've completed a book. We all get to pick a treat. We share our treats and watch the movie together... good times!

FHE- Painting coop, ourselves and pooch RED

2010-06-22T10:46:00.000-07:00

We had a chicken coop painting FHE activity this week. Still haven't gotten the paint entirely out of Tyler's hair. Also, Sammy the dog rolled on the grass (which had wet paint) and now he looks like some crazy teenagers we know! It turned out great and was a fun project to do together.

SICK AS A POSSUM

2010-06-17T11:49:00.000-07:00

If you wonder why I haven't been blogging much, it's because I've been really SICK. I am pregnant (about 14 weeks along). Jeff and I had actually thought we were done. I don't have a baby item left in this house, as proof! But... Heavenly Father had a different plan for us. We know this baby is supposed to come to our family. It's been a rough last few months (it felt more like years) but I am now feeling so much better. I have never felt this well at this stage in previous pregnancies. I am so thankful. I should be able to keep you all better updated now that I am up and around again.

Thanks so much for all the prayers and love!

Almost Forgot... Reggie's Playmates

2010-06-08T12:05:00.000-07:00

Reggie is the smallest in the far back

The Story of the Ugly Chickling

2010-06-08T11:01:00.000-07:00

Reggie After

Reggie Before

We incubated some chicken eggs to get up close and personal with these little creatures. I thought none were going to hatch. Then one morning I started hearing cheeping out of an egg. I had no idea you could hear them inside their eggs way before they hatch. One lone chick worked all day and night, but couldn't make it out of the egg. I know you aren't supposed to help them out, but I couldn't help myself. It sounded so forlorn in there! I started pulling away the shell a little at a time. I never expected the thing to survive. I was astounded every day to find it alive and kickin.

I named it Reggie. It finally appeared Reggie would live to see another day and another. We bought 4 friends and Reggie is thriving. We're still not sure if Reggie is Reggie or Reggilina. What do you think?

Ahoy, Matie!

2010-06-08T10:56:00.001-07:00

It may be too cold to swim, but there's still plenty of fun to be had!!

Go see, "How To Train Your Dragon"

2010-04-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I both agree that this was one of our favorite family movies ever! We loved it as much as the kids did! I highly recommend it.

Great Site for Spelling

2010-04-12T12:22:00.000-07:00

We've recently discovered spellingcity.com. It's a site where kids can enter the spelling words they are having trouble with. This program will teach them the words, offer games with the words and test them. There are lots of other options available as well (vocabulary, handwriting etc.). The best part is that it's free!

April Fool's!!!

2010-04-03T22:00:00.001-07:00

Sorry in advance, this post is going to be out of order! Oops! I really tricked Tyler this year. It was awesome! I made muffins for breakfast, but I put a cotton ball in the middle. He took a few bites and then got a mouth full of cotton. It was so funny. He said, "this muffin tastes furry and yucky!" I wish I had a picture to post of his face!

Boiling Easter Eggs

2010-04-03T21:29:00.000-07:00

I've boiled many an egg in preparation for Easter egg dyeing. Recently, my mother-in-law gave me the easiest, most fuel efficient method to the perfect boiled egg. It's my favorite!

PERFECT HARD COOKED EGGS

Place eggs in pan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and turn off heat. Put lid on pot and let sit for 15 minutes. Place eggs immediately in ice water bath. Prevents green around yolk. When I use this method the eggs are always super easy to peel too.

Wouldn't any bunny get excited about this (okay, maybe the cabbage doesn't look too tasty)?

General Conference

2010-04-03T21:16:00.001-07:00

I have to admit, I haven't always been an avid LIVE conference watcher. I used to consider it my weekend off, a break from callings and figured I'd watch the talks when I got around to it or read the talks in the Ensign. The last few sessions I've really looked forward to watching it when it's being broadcast.

I like to make it a little celebration. We have yummy food set out all day. We have an Italian Soda bar for a special treat. I always buy a new puzzle to work on while we listen and watch. We also get the Legos out and the kids can create if they stay quiet. I assumed the kids would take off and play all day today because we didn't require them to listen to the Saturday sessions. To my surprise, they spent almost the entire four hours watching conference with Jeff and I. There were so many awesome talks. I was so glad that they chose to listen. I think so much of my children's behavior depends on my attitude.

Cooking Bacon

2010-04-03T21:07:00.001-07:00

My family loves bacon, but I think it's my least favorite thing to cook. I hate cleaning up the grease most of all. When we went to my friend Cyndi's for breakfast, she was cooking it in the oven! It looked so easy, I couldn't wait to try it at home. We set the temperature at 425 degrees, lined the cookie sheet with foil, placed the slices of bacon on the foil and set the timer for 15 minutes. The bacon came out perfectly and the clean up was such a breeze. Dump the extra grease off the tray and then take the tinfoil off and throw it away. I checked the cookie sheet and it was spotless! I can't wait to clog up my families arteries a little more frequently now with some piggy!

Kristen- we miss you too!

2010-03-27T20:42:00.000-07:00

Just looking through some old photos and remembered some of the fun times!

Thank Goodness for Ziploc Bags!!!

2010-03-27T19:23:00.000-07:00

Lindsay- listen up (this is mostly for you and all other new moms- although moms with kids that get carsick need this too)!!

ALWAYS keep some gallon sized ziploc bags somewhere in your car. They are the best thing to have in any gross emergency. They are so compact, they contain the nasty smells- I could go on and on.

Returning home from skiing today, Tyler said he was going to be sick. We grabbed the ziploc, he did his thing, we zipped it up. I wish I'd thought of this years ago.

Oregon Caves

2010-03-25T18:34:00.000-07:00

A perfect, "get out of the rain during spring break" activity!

WILDLIFE IMAGE REHABILITATION CENTER- with the Spencers

2010-03-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

We got to see lots of interesting and rare animals at this rehabilitation/education center. They had a white squirrel, bald eagles, owls, wolves, a cougar & tons more.

We decided the Grizzly Bear was one of the coolest animals- especially since we got to see him so close up!

After just having finished, "The Wind in the Willows" to see a real live BADGER was so cool!

A twist on the birth of Jesus...

2010-03-25T18:08:00.000-07:00

Studying ancient history this year, we are now on the birth of the Savior. Our good friends, the Shumways, have a tradition to make peanut people at Christmas . We just had to try it as part of our section on this part of history... Christmas season or not! These photos are Tessa's creations (we might have to do this every Christmas too- it was so much fun)!

Skiing Mt. Shasta

2010-03-25T18:00:00.000-07:00

We had the best time spring skiing! The weather was so warm that we didn't even end up using jackets! That's my kind of weather... We are going to try to go a couple more times before the end of the season.

Fun Mosaics

2010-03-22T16:36:00.000-07:00

We studied about mosaics and the girls each made one. We liked how they turned out! We used two different colors of beans.

I love NETFLIX!

2010-03-18T18:25:00.000-07:00

Guess what I discovered? I have an account with Netflix and they just added this feature where you can watch tons of movies instantly (for free). I've found a bunch of educational ones that I can watch right on my computer. The kids and I already watched two IMAX movies this week. They wrote a paper on the "Beavers" IMAX. It was such an interesting movie with awesome footage of how beavers live and build. It is such a good resource for finding movies to go along with what we are studying!

Fun Family Pics

2010-03-18T18:08:00.000-07:00

Furry 'ol Hamster Babes

2010-03-18T18:04:00.001-07:00

I promised a baby hamster photo with fur...

St. Patty's Day

2010-03-18T16:31:00.000-07:00

St. Patrick's day came and went yesterday. I created green french toast for Tyler and Tessa (very gourmet- let me know if you'd like the recipe). Sierra wanted a toad-in-the hole (which I also made green). It looked pretty gross to me, but they ate it. It's pretty easy to make holidays special for kids. It involves creativity and time, more than anything else.

Jeff and Tessa made a leprechaun trap with a cardboard box and embellishments. It's always quite the project. They spend lots of time trying to figure out the best way to trap the little guys. Tessa wants to catch one and keep him for a pet. Wonder what they eat?

Anyway, we had Doug and family over. I cooked the traditional corned-beef and veggies. We had pistachio salad, green salad, green-tinted pina-colada's and french bread. It was tasty. For dessert we did a cake-walk with cupcakes we decorated and cookies. The kids walked along a shamrock path with music playing.

Jeff also did a treasure hunt. The kids had a super time looking for the treasure. The hidden treasure was water soakers and they attacked each other and then went hot-tubbing when they were sufficiently frozen. Ian was actually in the hot tub with his socks still on! It was a good time. I always like any excuse to make life fun and special, to make traditions and memories.

"As I Have Loved You"

2010-03-05T20:46:00.000-08:00

I have been reading the book called, As I Have Loved You," by Kitty De Ruyter-Bons. I've read it four times now. It's one of my all-time favorite books. It takes place during World War II. It is so inspiring to me.

I was reading it tonight with Tessa out loud. I was reading her a part where the author's mother shaves all the young women's hair because the Japanese soldiers want to use them for prostitutes. This mom then endured torture beyond anything imaginable, because of her bravery and willingness to save the virtue of the girls. It always makes me cry when I read this part. It is an unbelievable test of a human soul and this mother shows such amazing strength of character. I want to be that kind of woman.

BUNNIES AND MORE BUNNIES

2010-03-04T13:21:00.000-08:00

Our last bunny died this week, so naturally we had to go get some more...

"Wind in the Willows" and Popcorn

2010-03-04T13:15:00.001-08:00

The kids and I are having a great time reading aloud the book, "Wind in the Willows," by Kenneth Grahame. I got each of us our own copy at the library and we take turns reading. It is full of humor and has awesome illustrations on almost every page!

Did you know you can pop corn kernels in a brown paper bag in the microwave? Fold the top over and tape shut, then listen for the pops to end and pull 'er out. It's a super cheap and healthy snack.

Tyler's Favorite Thing...

2010-03-04T12:59:00.000-08:00

Thanks for having the coolest toys in the world Uncle Doug!

Cleaning the Kitchen Sink

2010-03-04T12:54:00.000-08:00

You have to try this!

Have you ever tried the Fly Ladies method of cleaning your sink? It will look like new and make you feel so good!

http://www.flylady.net/pages/FLYingLessons_Shine.asp

New Jobs at the Shields Pad...

2010-03-01T14:59:00.000-08:00

We have been focusing on the value of work lately. Last week we talked about a quote by David O. Mckay. It says, "Let us realize that the privilege to work is a gift, that the power to work is a blessing, and that love of work is success."

I drove one of Tyler's buddies home from preschool today. I said, "you know what Elijah? when you see this car on Wed. you aren't even going to recognize it because it will be so clean!" He said, "I'll recognize it, because I know what the little buttons to roll up the window look like."

I hesitate to even admit it, but the fact is that it took me 3 WHOLE hours to clean the car! Elijah really will not believe he's in the same vehicle but for those little buttons I tell you!

I actually love cleaning a huge mess and seeing the transformation afterwards . It's rewarding. But... as rewarding as it is, I don't care to repeat it in a very long time.

I'm going to start by mentioning how good it felt to work hard and get a job done tonight in FHE. Then we'll go over all the wonderful reasons we love having our cars and what a privilege it is to own a car. I am going to get our car payments, insurance, new tires receipts (you get the picture) and we are going to see how much having these two cars costs us each month. We are going to talk about what a sacrifice it is to come up with money each month to pay for the cars. Then we are going to look at the car I cleaned. We are going to discuss how we can keep it looking that way. I'm sure they'll come up with some stuff (dad could work extra so we could pay to get it detailed etc.) :) but this is the deal when discussions over:

a) no more food in the car

b) a kid is going to clean the car every Saturday morning

c) the other two are going to do a mom job (clean out closet) or dad job (yard work)

d) we'll rotate jobs every week

To all friends and family who love and care for me:

If anyone's available to enforce A-D on Saturday mornings, I'd be much obliged!

Teacher vs. Critic

2010-03-01T14:48:00.000-08:00

Isn't there a fine line between being a teacher or critic as a mom? I think I fall way too often on the critic side of the line.

I pray and read my scriptures before I start my day. I also like to read a little from one of my many parenting books. I feel like I have so far to go in the area of mom I want to be vs. the one I actually am.

I did have a pretty decent mom moment recently. One of my kids took off and didn't tell me where they were going. I had a stressful time driving around the neighborhood. When I finally found them, I was mad.

I remembered some things discussed at my sisters reunion about trust. When we got home, I explained to them that I love them no matter what they do. They will never do anything bad enough that I won't love them. Love is not earned. Trust is earned though. I can love them to pieces and still not trust them. We talked about how important it is to be a person who can be trusted.

I then gave a consequence of writing a couple page paper on an animal. I guess my normal response is something like, "what the heck were you thinking?" So this was good for me.

I'm so thankful for my sisters!

2010-03-01T14:30:00.000-08:00

My four sisters and I get together one weekend a year without kids. We always talk about tons of things, many times we give and receive advice. There's nothing like having 4 other people who love you more than anything discussing the best options for you. We are all so different, but when we discuss ideas together, we come up with great solutions. We laugh and cry harder than we probably do all year. I always learn so much. I consider it such a tender mercy that Heavenly Father gave me my sisters.

Why I love Jeff...

2010-02-27T15:31:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows me, knows that I love CANDY!

Jeff is the best. For as long as I can remember, whenever I ever have treats around, he NEVER eats the last one. He always saves the last ones for me. I've never asked him to do this, but he always has. I know its a small thing, but it is so him. He is the kind of person who thinks of others before himself in a million small ways.

I was teaching the girls in homeschool this past week a simple idea about the word JOY. If you put JESUS first, OTHERS next and YOURSELF last, you will feel fulfilled and have tons of JOY in your life.

We've been having lots of issues with people in this house leaving messes for others to clean up (oh, ya, "others" would be mostly me). I briefly mentioned that when we do this, we are not thinking of OTHERS (how they must feel to clean up tons of messes they don't make) but putting OURSELVES first. I think it actually stuck. We aren't done with messes, but they have a lot better attitude when I ask them to clean up.

Activity Days Breafast!

2010-02-27T15:16:00.000-08:00

Sierra and Tessa got kidnapped out of bed by their activity day leaders, Sister Pulsipher and Sister Leal. They took us to the Black Bear diner, which was perfect for the huge group we had!

Biking Weather is Here!

2010-02-27T15:07:00.000-08:00

Oh, I love warm days in February! We went on the best bike ride while the cousins were visiting from Ashland. We also did an awesome tropical feast for lunch. The kids had a blast decorating for the occasion!

Fatso/Fatsalina Saga

2010-02-27T14:56:00.000-08:00

So Tessa got a hamster from Aunt Angela for her Birthday. Within a couple days, the thing had escaped. We looked for a week or so and couldn't find the fella. Tessa kept bugging, so I broke down and got her another hamster. Right when we got home, we heard a noise in the closet! I'm sure you guessed that Fatso decided to show his face just as we were putting Fatsalina into his cage!

Fatsalina gave birth to 7 lovely babies this week. One died, she ate another one (yes, you read that right) and so we have 5 babies presently. Right now they are super ugly, but in a week or so, I'll give you the updated version (hopefully with some fur).

2010-01-30T18:47:00.000-08:00

Tyler at the airport- (doing what we all felt like by the end)...

Oh, I almost forgot... the end of our trip was a little frustrating. We were in flight for 2 hours (2 hours from San Francisco) and were told that we had to turn around because of fuel concerns. We spent 5 hours in a plane and ended up back where we started! We stood in line with 300 others and finally caught a red-eye home. Nothing like flying/sitting in the airport almost 24 hours to get home! Our new favorite video on youtube is:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YGc4zOqozo&NR=1

because we've lost 2 full days the last two trips we've taken on United and this guy feels our pain!

2010-01-30T18:21:00.000-08:00

The Ewell family met us in Hawaii for the week. We had such fun catching up and playing together!

We took a trip to Hawaii to an anesthesia conference this past week. I think it was my favorite trip ever! The experience exceeded our expectations.

The kids caught these toads at night on the lawn and had a great time naming and playing with each one.

Tessa's Baptism

2010-01-11T13:02:00.000-08:00

Tessa and Darci singing, "When I am baptized." They did a great job!

Tessa was baptized on Saturday. It was such a great day. She felt really loved. She even got to be baptized with her really good friend, Darci. She told us it was the BEST, BEST day ever! Thanks to all the friends and family that came to support her!

Dead Angel

2010-01-11T12:55:00.001-08:00

Last Sunday when we got home from church we couldn't find Angel. Jeff finally found her in the backyard. It looked like she'd been shot. Turns out our neighbors pit bulls killed her. She had crawled under our fence somehow and they got her. She made her way back into our yard before she died. We were so sad. She wasn't much to look at, but the sweetest dog.

Doug buried her on his land in Ashland next to Grandma and Grandpa's dog. We loved that pooch! We're going to miss her lots!

Tessa's 8th Birthday

2010-01-11T12:51:00.000-08:00

Tessa had a great 8th Birthday at the bowling alley with friends and family. She sure is getting big!

Sierra's Accident

2010-01-05T16:33:00.000-08:00

Well, I think I can say that I witnessed the most scary event of my life. This weekend we rented some cabins with friends at Hyatt Lake Reservoir. It was awesome until we went sledding. On Sierra's first time down she and her little cousin Claren started down from the top of the hill. They wrecked and both flew off the tube. When I looked up the hill, Sierra was lying lifeless, face down in the snow. Darren Anderson (our friend who was with us) rolled her over and she started having a seizure. When she became conscious she was a mess- in so much pain and couldn't see well. Jeff and our friends gave her a blessing, which did give me some peace. We had to drive over an hour to get to the ER. It felt like forever! She had a CAT scan and it was fine. She was admitted to the hospital for 24 hours and came home Sunday with a scratch on the nose to show for it all! I can't even tell you how grateful we are that she is okay. We were so relieved that Claren didn't get hurt also. It was super traumatic for me.

My friends and family were so awesome through it all. They packed up our cabin, watched and helped our traumatized kids and even cleaned up after Tyler got carsick and threw up in their car. THANKS SO MUCH GUYS!

THE NUTCRACKER

2009-12-21T14:10:00.000-08:00

THE NUTCRACKER

Charie's Piano Recital

2009-12-21T14:06:00.000-08:00

Charie's been teaching a few students and had a little recital recently.

Sierra's Voice Recital

2009-12-21T13:54:00.000-08:00

Sierra sang 4 Christmas songs at her recital and did awesome! Her aunt Angela and cousins came to watch, which made it really special.

Tyler with Santa

2009-12-21T13:33:00.000-08:00

Tyler could not contain his excitement to see Santa this year. He was so cute. He couldn't stay still. The main reason was that he forgot to ask Santa for something important at the mall. He also informed me that he hadn't put his last name on his letter to Santa, which he was really concerned about. I reminded him of Santa at our ward Christmas party and he was soooo relieved!

Christmas Music Tradition

2009-12-21T13:29:00.000-08:00

Playing THE FIRST NOEL together...

Tessa on violin

Sierra on guitar

Charie on piano

Tyler Quote

2009-12-07T12:04:00.000-08:00

Tyler: I don't want to go to jail.

Me: Why?

Tyler: Because you have to wear weird clothes and pick up garbage.

One more Christmas Tradition

2009-12-04T14:21:00.000-08:00

We have a wrapped box we set out every Christmas. We cut strips of green and red paper and set them by the box. When we notice someone doing something we appreciate, we write, "I caught _______ and whatever they did on the paper. We read the papers every Sunday and make a chain out of them. We try to make the chain as long as we can by Christmas day.

This year we also added a new twist. We are also writing what we are grateful for on the slips.