Bein' Green

Book Recommendation

2009-03-27T14:54:00.001-07:00

The Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
i LOVE these books! Brent, Indiana and I have all had a blast going through the adventures of Percy Jackson. He is a great hero for young boys to identify with and realize they also possess that same power for good. This book is my favorite of the series so far. I had the COOLEST dreams whilst reading this...lost in the labryinth...serching...SO MUCH FUN!

They are also a great way to get kids feet wet with mythology. It is so much fun that Indy just wants to learn all of the stories and characters. HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend for ANYONE!

THe authors website is also a lot of fun! Cheers!

View all my reviews.

Disney World Part II

2009-03-27T13:17:00.000-07:00

Animal Kingdom was our next stop and we had a GREAT time-although some of our party was soaked for most of the day! The new EXPEDITION EVEREST is FANTASTIC! I have to hand it to Indiana-he rode EVERY crazy ride with me-he would hold me hand, and somehow, find the courage to take on the ride. We got a bunch of parent passes for that ride, but none of the grandparents wanted to ride, so we went twice in a row. I don't recommend that! Presley was actually tall enough to ride Rattlesnake Rapids and was SO happy to FINALLY be TALL ENOUGH TO RIDE WITH THE BIG KIDS! Grandma PEAD took on the FURY of the Rapids and ended up with nary a dry spot on HER! WE enjoy the Lion King show and LOTS of characters. WE also had the kids visit each land and learn how to be a better part of Planet Earth. (I love that Disney always has educational opportunities for kids.)
For the last two days, we visited our favorite parks again. The weather was FREEZING! But, McKenzie discovered KIM POSSIBLE in Epcot and THAT was the funnest part of the trip. The kids got a secret cell phone and each land had clues and adventures that revealed themselves when the kids found the spot and touched the phone; clocks opened, gardens appeared, skeletons danced, photos were taken. IT WAS SO AMAZING! They ran around all day, which was great because it was SO COLD! That night, I took Kenz and Indy to the American Experience. IT was so inspiring to me and I wanted them to see it.

The last day we were back together in the Magic Kingdom. We had SUCH a great time. It really could NOT have been better. Now I just look at my pictures and sigh--could we make it back there again? ANd I look at our couches of the damned and smile and say, "childhood only comes once. WE'll have to wait on you for a while more!"

WALTDIsneyWORLD!! Part One

2009-03-27T10:29:00.000-07:00

It's been a month since we returned and I am STILL missing it...my spiritual, familial mecca- Walt Disney World.
It all began as a surprise for our kids. We kept telling them that Brent had a business trip and would take ONE companion. The companion would be whoever was best behaved. That night, we broke it to the kids that I was his companion. Their sorrow was GREAT! However, little did they know that I had been packing them for the last week! (Unfortunately, I did NOT pack well for the 40 degree weather we experienced the last two days! alas!)
SO the next morning, we woke them and said they could drive us to the airport. Then as we arrived at the airport and we getting out, I handed each of them an envelope that said, "Congratulations! You are going to..." and on the inside were maps of the parks. Presley's was simplified. Hers said, "U R 2 C..." and I had a Mickey Mouse sticker inside.
When they opened the envelopes up, they were TRULY speechless! (I'm not sure I have EVER seen McKenzie that way!) They asked "when?" I responded, "RIGHT NOW BABY!"
Once again, speechless. Then Kenz panicked, "I DON"T HAVE ANY CLOTHES!" I explained that I had already packed them last week!
At that point, Indiana looked up and said, "I'm so happy I feel like crying." YES, son...I know the feeling!

SO we all got on the plane. It is the first plane ride for all of them, so that was an adventure in itself. The kids loved sitting at the window. I was trying to stay awake--yes we had a six thirty flight! Indy screamed bloody murder on our first descent. YIKES! I bought plenty of gum after that!
When we arrived, we were taken to our hotel, and then we caught a boat to Downtown Disney and enjoyed dinner.
NOw a word about the Disney Dining Plan--it is the BEST invention for a Disney Vacation YET! IT was SO easy, quick and painless, and probably saved us close to $1000 dollars. Seriously, WE ARE FANS!

THe next day, we hit the Magic Kingdom first thing. It was SO fun to see Presley meet the characters for the first time as a coherent child. Indy was a good sport and had a great time hanging out with other boys. McKenzie decided to spread her wings and be independent. I decided that I was the one who had to let go and let her try that. We all got the Royal Treatment because we were wearing our HAPPY ANNIVERSARY buttons. Brent, SOMEHOW, got us reservations at Cinderella's Castle. IT was SO much fun to get everyone in there and enjoy all of the festivities there! However, the real highlight of the day was in line for the Jungle Cruise. Brent and Dustin (one of my brothers) always walk ahead of everyone and talk. So in line, they were way ahead of us with about four kids and a patron congratulated Brent on Dustin on their anniversary and for having a great unorthodox family. AHHHHHHH. We were just figuring out who would be the girl!

Day Two consisted of Hollywood studios fare. Toy Story Mania was INSANE, so we were racing there for fast passes and that line. The Indiana Jones stunt spectacular was something we have looked forward to with Indy for a long time and we weren't disappointed! We enjoyed some great shows, great rides and a fun dinner at the 50's Prime Time Cafe. Yes, the spinach tasted like I remember. The dining is JUST like walking into the 50's and the servers yell at you for elbows on the tables, not finishing all of your food (TWO MORE BITES!), and even made the choo-choo train put food in my dads mouth. The highlight of the day, was taking a tired Presley to MUPPETS 3-D. It is my favorite. I LOVED sharing that with her for the first time.

Day Three was Epcot. I LOVE THAT PLACE!!! The Land is always my favorite ride. And of course, the lake with all of the different countries was a dream! WE had lunch in Norway with the MOST delicious school/coconut rolls. MMMMMMMMMMMM! The kids made masks and collected tokens at each country. We also found a bunch of princesses and Presley was in LOVE! WE ended up with Dinner in Japan at TeppanEdo. Indy LOVED the flaming food which was REALLY very delicious-even with a sleeping baby on me.

Back in the Saddle Again!

2009-03-18T13:05:00.000-07:00

Well my dear ones, my new IMAC arrived and is a beauty to behold. This also means that my blog will be resurrected-fitting seeing the season of the year we are in, and you will now, once again, see what it is like "Bein' Green." Cheers!

Oh What is it is to Sled and ride!

2009-01-08T11:01:00.000-08:00

OK. ok. So my computer is on its LAST leg, but I am waiting patiently for the macworld conf this month to release some new trinkets before I buy my new imac (aka baby) So THAT is why my posts are too far in between...it takes freaking forever.
BUT, this break, we went sledding with almost ALL of my family. We haven't done that since kids entered the scene. We had SO much fun! It was worth any pains it took to get there. Here are a few photos of our romp! HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The Value of Work

2008-12-15T05:22:00.000-08:00

In trying to give our children a new appreciation for work, and what it takes to have a house run, we have tried to get the kids to do dishes.
So the other night, as Indy was hard at work, I heard the most awful grating sound. Brent and I looked over to ask him what he was using to clean the lovely, NON STICK, pan with? He replied, "a rock. It will scrape off all of the hard stuff."
Yes, my son, along with any finish that was ever put on the product! Lovely, just lovely!
Oh, and did I add, Dishes must now be done with the shirt off. Funny KID!

VIVA LA VIDA!

2008-12-01T14:21:00.000-08:00

November 22nd happened to be a GREAT day for the Green Family--we were able to see our beloved COLDPLAY live in concert! Needless to say, they didn't disappoint!
The lights went out, and the BLUE DANUBE WALTZ started to blast. How cool is that?! They opened with Life in Techicolor and then went right into VIOLET HILL. (That song is McKenzie's Favorite! SOOOOOO many great songs with a few new twists.

I think I would have to say that my favorite number was THE HARDEST PART. Chris came out stage right-right on our side, with a baby grand and did the song solo. On the chorus, the drummer-clear back on the stage-would light up as he sang harmony and then, once again, disappear into the blackness. That song was SO beautiful and full of soul.

THEN, they ran off stage and ended up running into the crowd- TURNS OUT RIGHT IN FRONT OF ONE OF OUR TICKET GROUPS OF FOUR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yes, my brother in law was an ARMS length from the entire band! MY sister and I-who were on the opposite side of the venue, looked at each other like----WHAT THE (#*^%! I COULD have been us! But now, as my fever subsides, and reason sets in I realize that it probably was a good thing. That bouncer would NOT have been able to hold us off as they sang an acoustic THE SCIENTIST-one of my favorites.

After that was the crowd busting VIVA LA VIDA! I wish I could have recorded it for Indy. HE LOVES THAT SONG! Everyone was singing and feeling it. One of the final numbers was MY favorite from the new album- LOVERS IN JAPAN. During the chorus, thousands of colored paper butterflies flew down from the ceiling, for the perfect culmination of sound and senses. Afterward, I had people scrounge some up for me. When my kids accidentally ripped some the next day, I strongly advised them to be VERY CAREFUL. When asked why, I responded, "THESE ARE MY HAPPY THOUGHTS!" And yes, they have found a place on my wall. Each time I look at them, I smile.

You can consult my sister's blog for a complete set list and other amazing insights about the concert. http://web.me.com/thelampshade/RadRoberts/The_Mother_Blog/Entries/2008/11/24_c_o_l_d_p_l_a_y.html

IT WAS PHENOMENAL. There aren't many bands I would pay anything to see in concert, but this is one of two. It was worth every EURO! I could have listened to them for hours! YOU ROCK COLDPLAY! Please keep coming back! WE LOVE YOU!
If you have the means of seeing them, JUST DO IT!
"I could feel it go down. You left the sweetest taste in my mouth."
This last photo is for the CHRIS MARTIN I MIGHT HAVE TOUCHED fro two feet away!!!

TWILIGHT TIME!!!

2008-11-24T10:19:00.000-08:00

Friday came, but it didn't go out until we got our first bite into the TWILIGHT FILM! After being so cruelly disappointed in the last book, I held myself at bay when it came to my obsession--yes, it IS possible for me!
However, when it hit 4 o'clock, I was dressed and ready to go!!! We traveled up to the District to join in the festivities with the TWILIGHT MOMS. I donned my sultry red VICTORIA costume for the look-alike contest, (VICTORIA from Eclipse). We grabbed a few branches from the trees for my hair on the way in! We had a great time visiting vendors, eating pork burritos and getting bite mark tattoos. Finally, after all of the hoopla I changed and we got to go into our assigned seats. COULD NOT HAVE BEEN IN A BETTER SPOT! THANKS SHANNON!
The movie was great! I really enjoyed it. I kept my expectations low and just took it all in. Some performances I was REALLy pleased with--jessica and all of the high school gang, Charlie and James. Bella and Edward seemed able to pull it off, and the Cullens were alright. I would have liked to see more of them.
My critiques are that there is a superfluous amount of close face shots, NO BLOOD TYPING SCENE, and the meadow scene was mixed with the "discovery" scene.
(And they should have kept Carlise dark-haried. His makeup was horrible.)
However, for a low-budget film with no initial concept of its mad following, not bad for a first time around. I had a great time with my fellow addicts and had to download the soundtrack the second I got home!
I'll probably go and see it again tomorrow! AND New Moon is now slated for production, so just ONE MORE FREAKING THING we have to wait for!!! This really is a murderous addiction--but a fun one! I give it a B+.

HALLOWEEN LOVE!

2008-11-05T08:03:00.000-08:00

This year has got to be the funnest Halloween I have had in many a year! The kids looked great, had fun, and we got in on the action!
Presley started the week off with her dance class and pre-school parties. I have to say, have you ever seen a more beautiful, angelic cinderella? I think she kills Disney's version--and coming from me, that is saying something! Here are a few pics of her:

Indiana showed some REAL ingenuity by making a costume of what we had. He wanted to be slash--yes he has been playing a lot of guitar hero lately. I thought he looked great.

Kenzie, of course, followed her High School Musical heart and dressed up as Gabriella. I thought I had a black wig. Oh well. She still looked FABULOUS. Maybe we should go Sharpay next time.

Brent really took the cake as John McCain. He looked great, hunched over, thumbs up and a perpetual, "My friends..."coming out of his mouth. He was the bomb. Here he is outside my brother's family's GARAGE OF DOOM. The REAL highlight of the day.

I dressed up as Palin at a party the night before and we neglected to take pictures. HOPEFULLY, one of his friends will send us some!

Here I am in my Orange and black, halloween Glory.

And finally, for the coupe de gras, (Sp?) here are my brothers from the Garage of DOOM! Dustin was a menacing MOLA RAM and Lincoln made a perfect slave sacrifice with his chained emaciation! I'm hoping someone will send the other pics of all of us in our glory. My mom had a great gig going!

At the Garage of DOOM, (which dustin and tara took a week to set up for!) the girls were at the first checkpoint, the witches tent. There they had a bubbling cauldron and told stories of children to took too much candy. The young boys were at the next checkpoint as werewolves, skeletons etc, and went for the surprise attacks. At this point, a scary tour guide, one of which was John McCain, led our victims into the garage. There, they were accosted by me, an insane viking witch who liked to nibble on mice and eat eyeballs and other grossities. Some of the kids wouldn't take my candy even after I assurred them it was really just a bag of skittles. Following me, Tara took over as a ghostly tour guide through the haunted maze of talking heads, snake surprises, (which my dad was only too happy to man with the air compressor) and finally to the final, TEMPLE OF DOOM! There, victims were asked if they had ever tasted of the blood of KALI as Dustin ripped Lincolns heart, still beating, out of his chest cavity. The screams that came from that room were FANTASTIC!
It was great to enjoy the night as a family eating candy, (although if I ever have eat one more gummy fingertip, it will be too soon,) enjoying hot soup, delicious sugar cookies and scaring the pants off of 500 people in SLC. A GREAT HALLOWEEN! Thanks D&T!

Witches Night Out

2008-11-05T07:55:00.000-08:00

A group of girls I grew up with have tried to get together every Halloween for Witches Night Out. This year, we managed to do it a few days later and spent the evening HOWLING with laughter and scaring all of those who dinned around us. There is such an irrepressible comfort of being with old friends who really know you, with whom you can say anything and just let your hair down. I am a FIRM believer that every woman needs good girlfriends as much as anything else this world has to offer. I'm so grateful for these gals. Here are a few scary pics of us in all of our GLORY!

Photo Information

2008-11-04T13:32:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys,
So glad so many of you like the pictures. You can log onto the photographers website: karenhamiltonphotography.com
She is SO reasonable. Her sitting fee is a mere 50 bucks for up to 3 hours. Then you can negotiate pictures. WE just got the disk because there were TOO many good ones! Seriously, she is so fun and nice. Log on or give her a call!

Photo Shoot

2008-10-06T14:58:00.000-07:00

Okay, STILL catching up from the summer.
So one beautiful, august day, my new found Utah friend, Karen Hamilton, graciously offered to take pictures of the tykes for me. Now, i normally have not done this because I take tons of pictures of my children. However, after seeing these AMAZING, LOVEABLE shots, I have realized that it is SUCH a good thing to have someone take a fresh look at your children for yoU!!! WE LOVE THESE shots. They will soon be PLASTERED all over. If any of you want her contact info, you can find her on the web at: karenhamiltonphotography.com
So here they are: McKenzie Kate--wanted to look a bit older and beautiful. SHE SURE DOES! AND her dream came true when she posed for her HSM shot. My favorite is of her as a blooming flower and in the hat as she looks at the camera--you can kind of catch a glimpse into all of the workings of her mind!

Next is Indiana: He sure is a cute lil' man. I love the eyebrow raise, the skater dude, and of course, he was dying to be Michael Phelps with goggles and american swimwear. Ooo-la-la!

Last is baby Presley. She was just TOO dang cute. there are too many to choose. The classic has got to be her habitual sniffing of her "bunny bear's" ear. Brent loves the ratty ponytails, i love the dancing, and of course, my FAV is of her prep school look. The juxtapostion of her acting like she is twenty and the three year old body is SO her! TOO DANG CUTE!

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All hail Karen Hamilton!!! These truly are TREASUREs !!!!!

I"m a MAN!

2008-09-29T15:33:00.000-07:00

Indiana has been waiting LONG and HARD since Kindergarten to finally and officially graduate to "BIG-kid-Hood" by losing a tooth. He has even gone so far as to try and dislodge one. not pleasant.
So, FINALLY, thanks to a stubborn glue stick, a tooth started to wiggle. For the next few days, he worked on it. BUT, his fear of letting me pull it would not allow for the final blow--it was too harsh and gruesome for him. So, after talking to Grandpa Pead, he learned the new trick of tying dental floss to the loose tooth and the other end to a door and then slamming the door. LESS SCARY!?! apparently. For that very night, I tied one of my super dooper knots, Brent did the door work, and on the third try, BAM! Out it came! (I'll admit, I was a little anxious to watch!) I was trying SO hard to tape it, but couldn't find my camera. So here is the final product. He is now, officially, a man!

TODAY!

2008-09-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am WAY behind on posts. SO, I"ll just send them through as I feel inspired to write them. TODAYS TOPIC--NIEL DIAMOND.

The story begins as a college student. Fall-1996. A fellow friend, Justin Williams, and I found out that we had a shared love for all Niel Diamond music. On a whim, we went just to sit outside the delta center just to feel his aura; and it turned out that we got 7th row seats and the time of our lives.
Later on in the spring, our ward hosted its very exclusive and notorious LIP SYNC. Not wanting to miss out on being a part of this, we re-created a blast from Justin's past. He forgot all of the words to "AMERICA" in the 3rd grade and has suffered cruelly since. That day, we decided to right this wrong and came up with this amazing show in about 1 hour--also about 1hour before show time. (I must add here that my wardrobe is provided by MERCY STUDIOS--aka. Tara Pead, and it is ONE OF A KIND FABULOUS! One watcher of the show commented to me afterwards that this dress was indeed, "THE HOTTEST DREsS IN CHRISTENDOM!" THANKS TARA!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjZIuWGCOL8

Well, in late August, Justin decided to get married and all he wanted most was to re-live the most wonderful night of his life. SO, thanks to you-tube, and borrowing "the dress" we managed to pull off yet another historic appearance of Niel and his red lady. I stole a few pictures off a friends site. And let's just say, it was yet another thrilling performance. AND, even more miraculously, the dress fit. (The slit is just SOOO much higher that I remember it!!!)
ENjoy!

Missing...period!

2008-09-17T20:39:00.001-07:00

My dear good friends,
How I love you. I had THREE comments about my MIA status in the blogging universe. I was explaining to Shannon that my computer is full and I need to download all of the pictures from the summer, etc. and she mentioned that I don't need pictures to blog...lightbulb!!! HELLO!!! Why didnt' I think of that?!
SO, I appreciate your harassment to blog. It makes me feel noticed and missed. SO, I am downloading pics right now (I just erased all of my music, we will see how that GOES!). BUT, more importantly, I AM WRITING. If feels good to get the feel of speed back into these fingers. Sure, the backspace is hit a least once a word, but hey, I'm an old dog.
SO, we had a FUN summer. My plan was to keep us busy and to partake of all of summers golden goodness. Mission accomplished! Brent was gone a LOT of the summer, traveling to Europe and Africa. You can check out his blog, and amazing opportunites on his blog (there is a link on mine). We went to Heber, Park City, and everywhere local. We fed baby cows, swam in springs, had a great photo shoot, rode the Alpine Slide for the Kids first time, watched clouds, had friends from Alaska, waited for Breaking Dawn, pulled off yet another girls camp, went camping--actually had BRENT camp with us--that is a FIRST!!!, went fishing, ran through a nice green, lush lawn for the first time ever since living here, ate 2 gross of Otter pops, went barefoot and had the MOST spectacular Cul-de-SAC of FIRE EVER!!! My Black Mambas were HUGE, BOOMING explosions of JOY! It was my Christmas.
Now, we are back in school, and I am missing the noise and the kids. I'm so content to be the evil step mother playing Cinderella with Presley. Now, she saw Hairspray and always wants to be TRACY. BUT, i LOVE just being in the moment with her--my regret is that I learned it seven and eight years too late for my others.
SO, the Show is BACK on the road!!! More excitement to COME! I love you guys!

I have ONE picture of devotion for you. Here is our family the morning of the day that BREAKING DAWN is to come out. Our dear alaskan friends stayed out all night, I came home to sleep and then joined them after my run in the morning. THen these amazing people came to be with us in line and join the HYSTERIA!!! The title of this picture is: NOW THAT"S LOVE.
(TOo bad the book sucked so bad. YES, I give it 1 star. But that is another post!)

Blog Slack

2008-06-17T14:36:00.000-07:00

I know...no new posts. Its been a busy couple of weeks. Brent has been traveling a lot on business and we were in the middle of yard hell. BUT, now I have a lush garden of eden (to me. Anything beside dirt and desolation qualifies!) thanks to many neighbors and friend laborers in our little vineyard. SO, I'm STILL tired. pooped. i am steer manure!
Also, I'm really just trying to enjoy my kids this summer and spend time with them. THus, the priority of blog updates is decimated daily.
I DO get on and check out others bi weekly or so, so keep it rolling! I'll just sit on my hypocritical hinee and enjoy yours!
We are going to have some GREAT stuff in the FALL!!! ha ha. (hopefully, it won't be that long!)
HAPPY SUMMER!

The New Adventures of Indiana Green

2008-05-23T10:21:00.001-07:00

This last week has been a whirlwind of fun and adventure for the Green clan. The planets have aligned leaving a bright spot on the horizon of our young sons life. His birthday happens to be on the EXACT same date as the release of the latest installment of his dear namesakes movies!!! Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull!
Thanks to Brent's amazing professional expertise, Indiana was invited to be the GUEST OF HONOR at Utah's premiere of the movie at the Gateway in Salt Lake City that was sponsored by ABC4 and CW30!!!
We headed up early to make sure there would be NO missing this! Indiana wanted to eat at the HAPPY SUMO, so we enjoyed sushi, teriyaki and rice. We strolled down the lanes together, had a few photo opps and then went to the movie.
Inside, he was introduced to the crowd and received lots of applause and approbation! Then we settled in and enjoyed. I hate to get all mushy on you, but as a Mom, it was a Magic Moment for me. Who would have ever dreamed that I would be in a theater, watching an Indiana Jones movie with my young son, laughing, ohhing and covering our eyes. As we turned at the exact same points in the movie and looked at each other and smiled, I knew I had arrived. It just doesn't get much better than this!
He was interviewed the following day by the Daily Herald, and ended up on with a huge picture and a great article. Here is the link to that: http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/267493/17/
On his birthday, May 22nd, we visited the Dr. and then went to his class for Birthday treats. As he walked into that room, newspaper in hand, a huge smile went across his face. All I can say is: Happy sumo: 85$. Daily Herald: 5o cents. Seeing your son hailed as a hero: PRICELESS!
We then rushed home for the Deseret News interview, and then off to the movies. We were joined there by family and Indiana's two groupies, Mika and Kim, who had "INDIANA IS MY HOMEBOY" shirts made especially for the occasion! And again, we enjoyed the fast and funny adventures of Indiana Jones. The diner fight, the snake and the THREE TIMES happen to be some of our favorite.
At home, we enjoyed burgers-although, i'm wondering why I didn't think to serve snake and chilled monkey brains!-and the company that surrounded him. Lucasfilm sent him a HUGE movie poster that SHIA is going to sign for us. Harrison Ford's agent sent us the FIRST signed photo of him in the new movie, as well as his usual one. We also cleaned walmart out of the new Indiana Jones Heros-like our Galactic Heroes obsession which is now getting obscene. And of course, the whip. He has enjoyed some dang good, crack-a-laka with that!!!
He had SUCH a fantastic day, and I couldn't think of anything he deserves more. He is so patient and kind with his self-assured, and sometimes overbearing sisters, and we just wanted him to know that HE is special and that we value what makes him so sweet, funny, smart and UNIQUE. I think we could say Mission Accomplished! We love you Indy! Happy Birthday Buddy!

PS. He is on the FRONT page of the Des News this morning. Here is the link to that:
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700228437,00.html

Reading Rainbow!!!

2008-05-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

"It's nighttime, the kids are finally in bed and have surrendered to sleep. Husband is out playing basketball. Free at last! I noiselessly creep across to my bedroom, brush my teeth, slip into my cozy slothware and snuggle up in bed. With joyful anticipation, I quietly crack the cover of TWILIGHT, close my eyes, take a deep breath, and smile as I re-enter the world of Forks, Washington."

Yes, every time I open these books, it is a Reading Rainbow moment for me. As the pages flip open, light and joy spew forth and fill my mind with the dewy magic of Forks, lucious vampires, and chummy werewolves. It's like loosing an appendage to close the covers. This reading has lead to my crazy obsession with all things TWILIGHT.

To complete the journey on the Twilight Train, I had the AWESOME opportunity to meet the Queen Mother herself, Stepehnie Meyer, on May 17, 2008!!!
We had a fabulous outing hearing Q and A, meeting up with the Twilight Moms and getting our books signed. (A HUGE THANKS TO KATIE CAMPBELL, for knowing I would have to go and for securing me a ticket even though I was miles and miles away in no cell phone zone on the Caribbean!)

Let me preface the rest by just saying, more than anything, I want to be her sylist. I have been wanting to do this for some time-to create an exterior look that is more reflective of her creative genius! SO, as I sit in the audience, stomach churnin, I quickly ripped out a deposit slip from my checkbook, circled my contact information, write a note and screwed up all of my courage to ask her if I could be her sylist. It was nerve-wracking as we approached the dimly lit stage. We then had to organize our books just so, get in line and have our ticket. Well it was too much for Tara and I because we lost a ticket and we start to panic. "You have to have a ticket to get your book signed." HELLO, this close to the goal and what?! We scramble to find it in which book and she just patiently looks over and smiles at the inept moms scrambling to find our GOSH DANG TICKET!!! (See photos)...the agony! Finally, we get it and as we approach her highness, I blurt out, "I SO want to be your STYLIST!"
She looks at me and says, "DO I really look that bad?"
Time stops. And, as my husband would say, "BOI_OI_OING!" I randied.
I try to quickly jump out of the crater I just put myself in and explain that it is just for fun, to refine, to embellish! It was NEVER meant to be insulting. But, that is pretty much the story of my life. Tact=A big old goose egg.
When I told Brent, he just shook his head and said, "When are you ever going to learn tact?"
My guess, at this point, is never.
My big chance and I blew it. HOWEVER,at least I did what I felt I wanted to. I didn't bail out at the last minute, or cave in the Soup Nazi type setting that threw off my whole game. Stephenie Meyer is not someone who 4.5 seconds with can satisfy. She's the type of gal you really pray, to someday have a conversation with.
And for now, like Anne of Green Gables, I'm content with my [4.5 seconds]. (However bad I bonered them!)

READING RAINBOW Pt.II

2008-05-23T09:40:00.000-07:00

The same day as my Stephenie Meyer frenzy, Provo City sponsored a "UTAH AUTHORS" fair. Grandma Green was nice enough to take ALL of the kids down to Academy Square and visit the various authors and illustrators. They had the time of their lives!!! They got to meet Brandon Muil, Guy Francis, and Shannon Hale among others. Kenz even got Austenland autographed for me!
It was wonderful to see them so excited about how the books are made and written and illustrated. WHy don't we do more things like this? It was seriously as good as a day at Disneyland for our kids. SO THANK YOU PROVO, for forgetting about carnivals and other useless Oriental Trading give aways. This gift was far more precious!

Dancing like the Stars

2008-05-23T09:27:00.000-07:00

Our girls just completed another year of dancing and had their annual concert. IT was fun this year to see McKenzie joined by her little sister, Presley. They had five shows within two days and did so well. (I thought for sure, Presley would die.) But, she showed off her usual uninhibited self, and stopped to wave at audience members. McKenzie has a real flair and rythmn that makes her so much fun to watch and enjoy. Once I install the new ilife, I'll post the movies of their dances for the world to enjoy. You can even see that Grandpa got in on the action. Hats off Ladies! Bravisimi!!

Special Day

2008-05-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, May 3rd, our first-born, McKenzie was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She went in looking like an angel and came out even more pure, clean and beautiful. WE are so proud of her for wanting to follow the example of Christ in this and know that it will be a blessing in her life. We are also SO grateful to all of the family and friends who came to show thier love and support for McKenzie and us. We had such a fantastic day, and it was just one of those things that makes me SO indescribably happy to have been given the opportunity to be a mother to these amazing, and fantastic kids. I love being a mom. And it was a precious moment for me to see her go into the waters of baptism and come out and hug her and let her know what a choice daughter she is to us and to her Heavenly Father. I'm sure she will do amazing things with her life. WE lOVE YOU KENZ!

Family Pics

2008-05-06T08:44:00.000-07:00

Here are a few family pictures from our parties. Everyone is always complaining that I never post pictures of myself on the blog. As you can see, you're not missing much. ENjoy!
They are: Dora Calling, Goofing Off, Daddy's Girls, and Sit down and act nice, twice!

Coming SOON...

2008-04-28T11:20:00.000-07:00

to a theater near you, INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL!!!
AND, just to be super cool, our son, who is named after this ficticious character has a birthday on the EXACT date of the movie release: May 22nd! SO we will be celebrating INDY style all day, taking in a matinee, and finding some chilled monkey brains to eat, only after we finish getting rid of any snakes we can find!
Brent has been contacting Lucasarts and others trying to get a favor in for this cute, smart and amazing kid. Just look at him! Who can't love THAT?!

Baby Presleys Birthday!

2008-04-28T10:59:00.000-07:00

It's a sad event for me to watch my baby grow up. But we had so much fun that day, that I couldn't help to relish in the joy of having another beautiful and amazing daughter.
As I had promised several months earlier, and she had remembered, we had to go and get, "dora plates, dora napkins, dora balloons, etc." ALL THINGS DORA and ALL THINGS PINK AND PURPLE were the order of the day. We enjoyed the morning together making cupcakes and party bags. Each time the door rang, she BOOKED 90 to get there. She would then open the door, jump up and down and say, "Did you bring me presents!" Unfortunately, due to her endearing personality and popularity with so many, she always DID get a present. Talk about being showered with love.
She had a small DORA party with 3 friends, and I ran out of games in the 1st fifteen minutes. My husband had a good laugh about that. And due to my AWESOME neighbor, we had a gloriously perfect and amazing DORA cake. (I looked at that pan about sixty times before I made myself face reality and that this is certainly beyond my level of abilities.) THANK YOU GINA!!!
That evening more visits from grandparents, neighbors and friends, made a perfect day even more filled with joy. Thanks so much for this precious thing in our lives and loving her like we do! Happy Birthday Baby Presley!

2008-04-28T10:43:00.000-07:00

April 12th was our First-Born's birthday. Rather than a camera, she wanted a HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL PARTY with all of her friends. (How do you say, RIP OFF!) However, once we got the place all ballooned up, with banners and east high mascots, etc, it turned into EAST HIGH!!! We had so much fun making up cheers for the birthday girl, playing for East High Idol, and testing our fitness outside. She had SO much fun and looked up at me and said, "MOM, I feel showered...with presents and

love." what more could I ever ask for on her birthday. Her uncle made her an amazing teddy bear swimming pool cake. That ended up probably being a biohazard for all of the oogling, breathing and touching that went on as the kids eyes ran wild with desire to partake! I love that stuff.

That night as I put her to bed, I saw that special gleem in her eye as we talked about all of the fun things we had done and all of the amazing friends we have to do them with. She said it was the best day she has ever had. You know what that makes my day then...certainly one never to be forgotten. I found the joy in just forgetting my agenda and turning in Sharpay for a few hours and showing my girl, a fabulous time. That's when motherhood is its greatest! I SURE LOVE YOU KIDDO! Happy Birthday!

MR. STUDMUFFINS BLOG

2008-04-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

my sweet husband now has his own blog: Check it out: brentegreen.blogspot.com

Also, here is one for every man who lives with a twilight obsessee:
http://spousesofedwardcullenfans.blogspot.com/

All Hail the Queen Mother

2008-04-25T10:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, So i haven't yet even had the time to post the pics from BOTH of my daughter's bdays and spring break. But this was too good to let sit. I am SO proud to be a twilight mom. Stephenie's triumph is shared by all of us mormom moms.
Check out the new article in Time.
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1734838,00.html

"...people do not want to just read Meyer's books; they want to climb inside them and live there." I couldn't have put it better myself!

An Easy Interesting Tag…

2008-04-03T13:42:00.001-07:00

From my sis: Aubs

Here’s what you do; a)pick up the nearest book b)turn to page 123 c)find the fifth sentence d)post the fifth sentence e)tag 5 people
tawn, shannon, heather, amanda and erica

"But what they prized above rank or riches was their daughter, sole heiress of their fortune, and I was always treated by them with the utmost indulgence and affection"

the fevah is burning!

2008-04-03T13:26:00.001-07:00

As much as I try to keep my obsession at a low burn, too much is happening to do it. I saw this picture, and to me, it personifies how edward and bella feel about each other. TO ADD TO THAT, I am like a giddy schoolgirl awaiting the visit of the creator herself, Stephenie Meyer, to our humble valley.

Someone, HOLD ME!!!!
How I LONG to talk with her and get inside the twilight universe. Only then will the journey on the twilight train be complete!

As an intelligent, controlled woman, I am Fascinated by the fact that these books give me a fever I cannot quench, send my mind reeling in a thousand different directions, make me long to meet one of these vampires, and turn me into a crazed, obsessed adolescent once again. Don't get me wrong...I AM LOVING THE RIDE!!!!

FYI>>>
Stephenie Meyer Book Signing and Visit to Utah!
Friday, May 16, 2008, 7:00 p.m.
DISCUSSION AND SIGNING
Borders, Provo UT and Borders, Murray, UT
TICKETS AVAILABLE MAY 6th!
Ticketed event held at The Showbarn at Thanksgiving Point, 3003 North Thanksgiving Way, Lehi, UT 84043. Ticket price includes $10 admission fee and one copy of The Host. Tickets are available at Borders Provo (4801 North University Ave., Provo, UT, 84107; phone: 801/224-2720) and Borders Murray (132 E. Winchester, Murray, UT 84107; phone: 801/313-1020) beginning on May 6th. Call Borders Provo or Borders Murray for event guidelines and details.

Home

2008-03-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

what a special place "home" is. It goes way beyond our brick and wood structures and connotes a refuge, a place where we are loved and treasured.
In spite of all of the bliss and wonders I saw last week, it still doesn't take the place of this wonderful home where the people I love are.
As we drove up from the airport, balloons adorned all of the house, roses were left on the doorstep and inside my room. Meals were delicious and delayed my inevitable and dreaded return to the culinary arts. Alan even made his Famous Pumpkin Cheesecake for me.
More than anything, the hugs and snuggles from the kids and being able to be with Brent again, made life supremely perfect for those few hours. It's always great to get away. (and a better get-away I could not have had) but it's always better to come home. Thanks for making it so special Brent, McKEnzie, Indiana, Presley, Michele, Alan, phyllis and gang and ma and pa pead!!!!! I love you!
PS. When I asked Indiana if he had a good week while I was away, he replied, "Not really." when I asked why he said, "Because I just had to think about you all day every day and miss you." How sweet is that.

My Best Cruisin' Buddies

2008-03-19T12:06:00.000-07:00

aka. more cruise pics!
Here is my last stop in the Bahamas, where I came face to face with a barracuda and about pooped my pants. Look at that Serenity. AHHHHH. I hope to carry that with me.
The next pic is our little bunch in A401. From left to right, Karen, SHaron, Erica and Myself.
I seriously feel 10 years younger and I got rid of all of my cares and troubles. It all just melted away. I hope to never pick them up again. OHHH, what a week!

"HEAVEN...I [was] in HEAVEN!"

2008-03-19T11:48:00.000-07:00

AHHHHHHHHH...mid eighties, slight ocean breeze and not a care in the world. This describes the last week I just spent in Caribbean bliss, on my first cruise. Thanks to the generous patronage of my esteemed and beloved patroness, Lady Sharon M. Doyle, we spent 7 glorious days out in the deep blue.
My fellow passenger, Erica Newby (and now reclaimed lost soul sister) and me gained an adult education in Jamaica, getting ripped off around every corner. The whole time, she was refered to as "Sexy Girl" from our local rip off hairstylist, and I was refered to as "virgin" from the local photo op woman. Needless, to say, we have since laughed long and hard about it since, and now call each other thus.
Our next stop was Grand Cayman Island. Let me just say now, this IS paradise. If you want to get away from it all, THIS IS THE PLACE TO GO. The historical pirate post of Tortuga may be its more familiar name to some of you; it's named after the huge Sea-turtle population there. Anyway, snow white beaches and blue waters, prompted us to order Pina colada's and plant on the beach. I'm already dreaming of going back.
Cozumel Mexico was interesting and we eventually found a nice beach with the BEST gosh-dang Mexican food I've had. The quac alone was the size of a small crab and delicious. We camped out on the beach and had custom palm hats made with palm leaf grasshoppers. And Erica and Karen continued their TWILIGHT obesession, pouring over the delicious details of Edward Cullen.
Other days at sea we got decked out like real ladies and showed the dining room what it is all about. I pigged out on lobster and Giant prawns, and ordered three desserts, which finally got our stoic waiter to laugh. *(GOod thing the red dress stretches!)
Sadly, it had to all come to an end. I can honestly say, those were some of the BEST spent days of my life. I couldn't have had a more enjoyable time, or spent that time in better company.
A HUGE thanks to my everything, Brent who was cheerful about letting me go and filled in as Super Mister MOM with the help of my wonderful and amazing mother-in-law. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!
To my sweet soul sisters of the cruise, I love you baby! Thanks for the memories!

I'm cruisin'

2008-03-06T14:02:00.000-08:00

So, while I am away for the next 10 days, you can check out how me and my alaskan friends and roughing it down in the Caribbean. Our blog is:http://karenhamilton.typepad.com/10plus2/

Photo-op

2008-03-06T13:51:00.002-08:00

What we do instead of working...

We are JAZZED!!

2008-03-06T10:28:00.000-08:00

This year, our school age kids, had a huge reading contest at school. The school's goal was to read 750,000 minutes in one month. Indy and McKenzie were reading machines! We are so proud of all of the time they spent on the "improvement of their mind." The top 12 schools in the state would win a visit from a Jazz player. We are proud to say that Cherry Hill came in 5th in the state! March 4th, we went to the school for the assembly. AK-our favorite was suppossed to come, but was hurt after a flagrant foul from freakin' dirk "no-whit-skii. So, we got a visit from Ronnie Brewer. It was great fun, and i got the kids out of their classes for a few photo ops. Needless to say, we are now all, SUPER JAZZED!

Indiana and the legend of NO CRUSTS!

2008-03-06T10:24:00.000-08:00

Indiana may be an action man, but he is repulsed by crusts of bread. Last night, he ate and entire HALF LOAF of garlic bread and here is the carnage of the discarded undesirables! Unbelievable! His plate was like a bread graveyard.
BTW, the NEw Indiana Jones movie comes out RIGHT on his birthday!!!! Mark your calenders for May 22nd!

The Cross Dressers and thier Fan Club!

2008-03-06T10:19:00.001-08:00

And you thought I was obsessed!

2008-03-04T15:58:00.000-08:00

This is a great site. And for some delicious sneak peaks into the cinematic world of twilight to get your heart racing, please, partake.
(And yes, we are all disappointed in not finding Edward to be the demi-God we had hoped for as far as the world of looks go. Let's hope he can act!)
Enjoy!
http://twilightmomsforums.freeforums.org/pics-on-location-t2481.html

I'm in LOVE!

2008-02-27T11:10:00.000-08:00

Here is a dress that begs to be owned by Moi. My favorite pick of the red carpet by far!!! Come to me!

The Curcrete POLAR PLUNGE!!!

2008-02-19T09:25:00.000-08:00

February 15th was a cold day. 24 degrees to be exact. But did that stop the stouthearted lads at Curecrete from jumping into the duck-infested waters of their company lake? NO! A little after noon, Brent and a few co-workers (some of you recognize Vernon Talbot from our youth, on the left) took a plunge into the freezing, mucky pond outside their office. For about two minutes, they sprinted across the freezing waste. Was it worth it? Brent is still deciding. so far, we are disease free. The spectacle was truly something to behold. Way to go Brent!!!

Vday Bliss

2008-02-19T09:19:00.000-08:00

"Love is in the air, everytime I look around." Oui, l'amour was the object of our Valentines festivites this year. The kids got pink and red jackets, (the girls were inspired by Paris, l'amour, etc.) I got roses and we enjoyed just being together. We made a collosial mess while eomjuring up the best sugar cookies in the nation! What would life be like without love? No life at all.

Hilary is the DEVIL's Playdough!

2008-02-14T14:07:00.000-08:00

HILLARY MEETS THE KIDS:
Hillary Clinton goes to a primary school in New York to talk about the
world. After her talk she offers a question time. One little boy puts up his hand. The Senator asks him what his name is.
"Kenneth," the boy replies.
"And what is your question, Kenneth?"
"I have three questions:
"First - whatever
happened to the medical health care plan you were paid to develop during your
husband's eight years in the office as President?
"Second - why
would you run for President after your husband shamed the office?
"Third -
whatever happened to all those things you took when you left the White House?"
Just then the bell rings for recess. Hillary Clinton informs the
kids that they will continue after recess.
When they resume, Hillary
says, "Okay, where were we? Oh, that's right, question time. Who has
a question?"
A different little boy puts his hand up. Hillary
points him out and asks him what his name is.
"Larry."
"And what is your question, Larry?"
"I have five questions:
"First - whatever
happened to the medical health care plan you were paid to develop during your
husband's eight years in the office as President?
"Second - why would you run for President after your husband shamed the office?
"Third - whatever happened to all those things you took when you left the White
House?
"Fourth - why did the recess bell go off 20 minutes early?
"Fifth - Where's Kenneth?"

This REALLY SUCKS!!! But only in a good way!

2008-02-11T15:00:00.001-08:00

IT"S OUT!!! IT's time!!!! IT WILL BE HERE!!!
Official Press Release: BREAKING DAWN WILL RELEASE ON AUGUST 2, 2008

2008 MAJOR YEAR FOR MEYER WITH DEBUT OF ADULT NOVEL AND TWILIGHT MOVIE

February 7, 2008 (New York, NY) — The wait is over. At 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2008, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, a division of Hachette Book Group USA, will release the most anticipated novel of the year — Breaking Dawn, it was announced today by Megan Tingley, the division's Senior Vice President and Publisher. The fourth and final book in Stephenie Meyer's #1 international bestselling Twilight Saga will be available in a hardcover edition for $22.99/$23.99 Can.

SO PLAN ON IT!!! Party--my place, August 1st and then Barnes and Noble at midnight!!!!

SOMEONE>>>PLEASE HOLD ME!!!!

PS. Movie Release date for Twilight is DEC. 12th 2008!!! Book that one now while you are at it!

We Can all Learn a LOT.

2008-01-31T18:25:00.000-08:00

January Jibber Jabber

2008-01-31T14:56:00.000-08:00

January jibber jaber.
SNOW-which I have enjoyed, but now it just makes me "cave out" in my house. Freezing. No likey. Memo to me- build dream home in Arizona!
DEATH- The passing of President Hinkley is a loss to us, but I have never been able to not smile when I think of him. His gift to me was the most wonderful gift of himselfI Always with a smile and a quip and yet rock hard in testimony, he demonstrated just what "manner of men [and women] we ought to be. I can only imagine the reunion he had with his great wife. WEll deserved. And well done.
Also, my friend's friend was killed by her husband. It makes you love and pray for people you have never met but for whom you mourn and also from whom you draw inspiration.
We commemorated the death of Brent's brother, Jeff on the 19th, and his dad's a little too. It makes you realize that you can never underestimate or really understand the power of a good life. That life continues to grow and inspire us to new and higher thoughts and desires. I look forward to meeting both of them and having a really good conversation with my father in law. What would life be without the ressurection?
BRENT- Having been gone for a week on business this month, I missed him immensely. The old adage, you don't know what you've got, until it's gone," holds very true for me. I get so caught up in maintainly a house, (indeed, I AM cubered about with too many things) that I fail to see, recognize and appreciate this magnificent man who walks through life with me. I marvel at his kindness, and his selflessness, and his ability to consistently make good choices that bless us all. KUdos to you Brent.
DRAB- Maybe this winter does have some value in that it makes me slow down and ponder things a little bit more. Put a little more thought into what I do instead of staying on auto-pilot. I woke up two weeks ago to realize that Kenz is rapidly growing up and will be in the clutches of adolescence shortly. I wonder if I have really spent the time and focused on her and not always the messy room or ratty ponytail.
I close with one final one that I lifted from my friend. It's great, from a simple little Disney short, 'Small One.'

"And when we say goodbye, there'll be in my place; one who needs you, one who loves you, someone with a friendly face."

My apologies!

2008-01-11T10:00:00.000-08:00

Yes, how tacky can I be? I send out cards, with a note to check out our blog and then fail to post anything for about a month. Yes, I'm a slacker. And yes, I am sorry. I think I'm back on track from the holidays. It just comes down to me finding the time to upload pics. I would much rather tell the stories with my pictures than my sorry accompanying commentary. SO, HAPPY NEW YEAR! I"ll do better!

G-PA Pead turns 60!

2008-01-11T09:51:00.001-08:00

Let us pause for a moment and mourn the loss of middle age for my dear old pa. (Let 20 sec pass.) And now, we welcome him into Senior Citizenry! We had a great time celebrating with he and g-ma. We celebrated with 60 candles,(Boy was that an inferno) and all of the grandkids doing 60 jumping jacks, and jumps. Yeah, it was a little sweaty, but we have to keep the immaturity level high.
He is a great man who has given all of us an amazing reputation of education, fun and integrity to live up to. THANKS FOR ALL YOU ARE DAD!

The Christmas Story-Pead Style

2008-01-11T09:38:00.000-08:00

AHHH, the lovely annual Nativity story. Told at this special time each year. Then turn it over to the peads and you have a few added and unscripted elements. A hunchbacked, muslim innkeeper, the princess jasmine and a few beefy prophets sure make for an entertaining time. Indiana did have his angel lines memorized thanks to his Linus ornament this year. The last picture is a nod to mine eldest brother, who declares the story, once more a theatrical triumph! One year, my mom may get her Christmas wish of a reverent solemn affair. However, I'm not placing any wagers on it! (Sorry mom!)

Cookies for Santa

2008-01-11T09:27:00.000-08:00

Here are the kids on the brink of unsatiable excitement the night before Christmas. We had a nice snowstorm, some good gelato at Gloria's Little Italy and then came home to make cookies and reindeer food. What a wonderful thing is that anticipation the night before Christmas!

The Cornucopia of Unbridled Avarice

2008-01-11T09:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas this year came in grand style-white and beautiful. Brent told the kids that they could not budge until the clock hit 6:00. Amazing how we were woken up at precicely 6am. Everyone went to the tree in their Christmas PJS and we opened and enjoyed. Christmas, as a parent spectator, is wonderful if you ask me. The fun of bright new toys and playthings still is fun for us. However, The amount of trash our small family produced did offend my environmental senses. So next year, I simply hoping for a trip to the Bahamas!

Christmas Card- Estyle

2007-12-19T13:37:00.001-08:00

For all of you locals, who will not be getting a hard copy of our card, here is an E copy. Here we are as our Christmas selves at Temple Square...freezing but happy. And we are SO LUCKY, blessed and HAPPY to be surrounded by so many good folks who do good things and we have great times with. WE sincerely wish you the Merriest of Christmases and and ADVENTurous NEW YEAR. (Can it be 2008 already?!?!) Happy Holidays! From the ever-GREENS

The Polar Express!!

2007-12-19T13:33:00.000-08:00

WE had the FANTASTIC opportunity to take a ride on the Polar Express. It is a family run event that takes you to the NOrth Pole to visit Santa and his workshop and then on a train ride about outside that depicts the life of Christ. Needless to say, it was the perfect marriage of all things Christmas. HEre are our kids with the Big Red Man and Indiana with his blinking red Rudolf nose. Good times. Good times.

Amazing Indiana!

2007-12-12T15:50:00.000-08:00

Just a few funny quotes from INdiana.
We were talking about the primary lessons and what your name means. We looked up Henry (which is Indy's first name) and it said, "Rules his own household." After we had looked up everyones' names, I did a review and asked Indy what his name meant. He couldn't remember for a bit and then tapped his skull and said, "HMMMMM, rules the...HOMELESS!!!!" WE died laughing. And he, unfortunately, will never live it down!
The next night, McKenzie got in trouble. As her dad was upset with her Indy kept telling me, "SHE IS MY THIRD MOST GRATEFUL." I kept asking him what he said but it became less discernable as his concern for his sister escalated. Finally, in tears he said, "She is my third most grateful! She's been really good to me lately and I love her and I am most grateful for her after you and dad." He has the hugest heart and plenty of places for all of the people he is most grateful for! We sure love him.

Lucky KIDS!!

2007-12-12T15:26:00.000-08:00

All I know is that my kids are about the luckiest kids in the world because they have such a FANTASTIC DAD! As I staying inside where it was dry and warm, he went out in his pjs and had fun with the kids. We sure love him!

80's BABY!

2007-12-12T15:16:00.000-08:00

Brent and I had the rare priviledge of going to an AWESOME 80'S party for one of our friends bdays. ALL I CAN SAY IS THAT IT ROCKED!!! (And that I am a total idiot because I did not realize that my memory card was not in the camera and all of the great 80s costumes and decor are LOST to me!) SO, my friend Sandy is going to lend me the records, etc and we will have some awesome 80's of our own next spring or summer. Anyway, enjoy Brent as Michael Jackson on the cover of ThRILLER. Next time, I may have him get a spray tan~! TOTALLY RADICAL!!!

FUNNEST QUIZ EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-12-05T13:47:00.000-08:00

OKAY!!!!! I saw this on my pal, amanda's blog and I CANNOT BELIEVE I DIDN"T KNOW ABOUT THIS QUIZ!!(As obsessed as I am with this stuff!) SO, here is the quiz. I think it has a link. ANd I must say that I am very pleased with the result--even though it is a man. He is a beautiful character. Probably my favorite. go figure.
HAVE FUN TWILIGHT FANS!!! And for heavens sake, let me know your results!!!

Which Twilight novel character are you?

You're Carlisle Cullen - You are very intelligent and have high moral standards. You truly care about people and helping them. Your knack for solving problems and pleasing two warring sides makes you unique and a desirable friend to have, even if sometimes you have to tell people what they might not like hearing.
Take this quiz!

Quizilla |
Join

| Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code

The MOST wonderful time of the year.

2007-11-28T12:14:00.000-08:00

Yes, I go crazy on Holidays. It's just me. So this year, we added yet another Christmas tree to our repitoire! It's a lovely flocked adventure. And the day after Thanksgiving, it blazed to life! Presley got to put the first ornament on- her PRECIOUS-the Frosty ornament. Indy followed with his LINUS that actually tells the whole Christmas story. (It will make you vaclempt!) And Kenz with her Island Princess Barbie.
Then, there is a shot of our resident, Cindy Lou Who and the other Who's in whoville. AHHHHH, could anything be better than this time of year! DECK THE HALLS BABY!

It's Autumn Time...(well it WAS anyway!)

2007-11-28T12:10:00.000-08:00

For the first time ever, I raked leaves. True, yes! I wanted my kids to have the thrill of jumping into leaves. We had a great pile. Unfortunately, it was a wee bit late in the season and they were all crushed and prickly. BUT, it's all about the memories. ANd can you believe it is november and that day was 68 degrees! HEllo!

GREAT SAYINGS!

2007-11-15T08:58:00.000-08:00

I just have to share the funny and smart things my kids have said this past week.
At Church, Indiana was being disruptive and so I was telling him to put his stuff away. Finally, after he was very frustrated with me, he said, "MOM, sometimes I don't understand HUMAN like you old guys!" I had to laugh.
Then this past week, Brent was on business and landed in Washington DC. When Presley would ask where he was, he would say, DC. So, the next day, when she spoke to him, she asked again, and he replied that he was on his way to north carolina. To which she adamantly responded, "NO DAD, you're in ABCD!"
And today, sadly, she FINISHED MY SENTENCE FOR ME!!! I said, "Do you want some milk in your...(brainfreeze)."
"Cereal. Yes mom."
AT TWO!!! I tell you, give me twenty years and I AM THE NOTEBOOK!!!

Halloween!

2007-11-02T10:08:00.000-07:00

We had a great Halloween this Year! I was able to dress up in orange and black and help out at school and the kids had fun. McKenzie and her teacher ended up BOTH being Alice in Wonderland. So cute! Indy was about the most handsome superman out there and Presley, was little Cindy Lou Who, who is no more than two. (She looks just like her!)
I got down with my dark self for Trick or Treating as the evil Queen from Snow White. Brent didn't want to be left out so he borrowed my Maleficent costume and dressed up as a different kind of queen. (Ha ha)
Anyway, we had a great time with our neighborhood and enjoyed the milder weather! After the trunk-or-treat, we went to my brothers annual haunted garage. It is fun for the kids to be part of that as well. He was his usual gruesome self, and his wife, made a decapitated Marie Antionette costume. Amazing! In fact, there is an article about it in the Des News if you want to follow this link: http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695223463,00.html
Anyway, hope you all had a great halloween. Now, can it possibly be NOVEMBER?!

HANNAH MCKENZIE!

2007-10-31T15:45:00.000-07:00

WEll, so much for over-indulgence. Our neighbor called with a last minute ticket to Hannah Montana and we caved and let McKenzie go. She put all of her money toward the ticket. (It was still a kick to the chach!) Then the next day, she had her first pedicure-a gift she won at the 5k she ran in May. SO, she was spoiled, spoiled, spoiled this weekend. (At least, she bought the right shirt to match with the Cons I got her. HEy and why don't they make cute stuff like that for us!) Anyway, it is starting to pay off. ALL of us got pedicures this weekend and she is still going strong. Give a girl a pedicure and spoil her for a day. TEACH her to give pedicures and you have some happy parents!

CRaZy HaIR DaY!

2007-10-31T15:35:00.001-07:00

For red-ribbon week, my kids love crazy hair day. And I must admit, their mother does as well!! I am particularly fond of Indiana's blue spikes. He makes me think of Puck from a Midsummer Night's Dream. I've tried to sell him on it...unsucessfully! At least I have a picture!!

Snow Day?

2007-10-31T15:29:00.000-07:00

October 22nd was our first day of snow for this winter season. Presley was so anxious to get out in it, but was scantily clad. So I suggested that she go and put on some more warm clothing. So, here is the result. (And if you know ANYTHING of the obstinancy of our last born, you will know that it does NOT matter what I have to say about anything. She has to learn from experience. Case in Point!)

SHElobs Lair

2007-10-31T14:04:00.001-07:00

Okay, so I am about three weeks too late in posting this, but I had fun decorating this Halloween. Our inside entry is officially SHELOBS LAIR!!! As I was up there trying to go overboard for the season, I about broke a few bones. And I thought...this may even be worth a couple of broken ribs! Anyway, I will keep it up for a few more weeks and it is open to any guests!!! Just be sure to bring the precious!!!

MY KITTY!

2007-10-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

Seeing as we have a bullet-proof NO PETS policy at our home, Grandma Green found a way to circumvent that to make our little Presley SO HAPPY! "It's my kitty MOMMY!"

Man eating Chicken

2007-10-19T15:39:00.001-07:00

You Are a Chimera

You are very outgoing and well connected to many people.

Incredibly devoted to your family and friends, you find purpose in nurturing others.

You are rarely alone, and you do best in the company of others.

You are incredibly expressive, and people are sometimes overwhelmed by your strong emotions.

What Mythological Creature Are You?

My Muppet Personality

2007-10-19T15:28:00.000-07:00

Here is a fun link for those of you with time to kill. Being a strong Kermit lover for years, the results really don't suprise me. Especially my full figured beauty!!!

You Are Miss Piggy

A total princess and diva, you're totally in charge - even if people don't know it.
You want to be loved, adored, and worshiped. And you won't settle for anything less.
You're going to be a total star, and you won't let any of the "little people" get in your way.
Just remember, piggy, never eat more than you can lift!

The Muppet Personality Test

My "Dancing With the Stars" moment

2007-10-08T10:57:00.000-07:00

Teachin' MYSELF a Lesson!!!

2007-09-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

(an Arrested Development Moment)
For months, Indiana has wanted a bike and Kenz has wanted new mary jane crocs. I told them that if Indy could earn 20 bucks, we would do the rest. SO, in an effort to teach my children a lesson about the value of industry and hard work, I came up with a plan. We would have a garage sale. Now I have never had a garage sale, but how hard can it be. LET ME TELL YOU! I spend at LEAST 10 hours cleaning out crap on Friday. And then I had to wake up at 7:00 the next day to set up the crap and tape up flyers. Then from 8-12am, I sat there as my children mingled with that lovely element of society and our average sale was 65 cents. Three hours into it, they had made a whopping 14 bucks. (So far, a dollar an hour for my time!) At the end, they had left me for dead while the visiting teachers were here. I went out and they were playing with friends, or Indy was telling every customer,"I tell you what, how about 11 cents?" It was a nightmare, and INSTEAD of teaching my kids a dang thing, it taught me a lesson. NEVER TRY TO TEACH YOUR KIDS A LESSON by HAVING A GARAGE SALE! It backfired and I am now Michael Bluth! (Oh well, I guess the 11 cent deals did work because at the end, we ended up with a whopping 24 bucks!! (But, never again I tell you! NEVER AGAIN!)

Girls on the Edge (Of the Toilet or Longboard!)

2007-09-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

True to form, the Green girls have marred thier physical appearance the week of school pictures.
First take McKenzie. The thrill of flying on the longboard was shortlived when it came to the sidewalk. She face planted and smacked her forehead, see green goose egg, and turned her nose and upper lip into a scabby, hamburgerish mess.

And, her younger sister decided to follow suit. Presley was still groggy from her nap when she got impatient and took a dive to the right. Too bad the tub was in the way! No that is not a liz taylor makeover. It is the current color of her eye! It was a doozie!

I told Indiana, the next one will be he or I. ZOIKS!

California Dreamin'

2007-09-22T14:42:00.000-07:00

Last week, due to the generous babysitting of our childrens' grandmothers, I was able to use my companion ticket to fly to CA with Brent. I was able to see my new little niece, BriAnna, who is growing so well, and my sister. Ironically, the pictures taken are all on her camera, so...Aub send me some pics!

Then, I went to the Magic Kingdom and just soaked it all up, perused the excellent shopping and waited for my Beloved. I DID discover a new disney treat. I have previously been partial to the Marshmellow Stick and Mickey Rice Crispy. NO MORE! I am telling you, the best kept secret there are the giant sugar cookies and a little cocoa. (My sisters and I call it COCO-LOCO because it has the strange effect of un-inhibiting you!. Anyway, next time you are there, Blue Ribbon Bakery on Main Street USA. You'll thank me for it!

The next day, I waiting in line for 80 minutes for the new Nemo Ride. It was cool, but I don't recommend waiting during the day and wasting good early park hours. Get in line at 7:55. They have to see you through and you may as well wait while the park is at its most enchanting. I'll enclose my favorite photo of the ride, you'll see why. So it was great to see my sis and enjoy a place where dreams come true with Brent and not having to visit EVERY SINGLE RESTROOM IN THE PARK! Bliss!

2007-09-22T14:21:00.000-07:00

The ABC's of ME!

Thanks for the tag shannon. I've been a blacker (BLOG SLACKER!)
A- Attached or single: attached
B- Best Friend: Brent and my family. Outside that, my old running partner, Tawn.
C-Cake or Pie: CAKE!!! Double Chocolate with Chocolate frosting. I ABSOLUTELY HATE PIE!! FRUIT SHOULD NEVER BE COOKED! Let the always eat cake!
D- Day of choice: Any day with a beautiful relaxing evening.
E- Essential Item: Outlast LIPSTICK! Wish I knew that younger. You always look made up. (I just realized that is a pun. oh well.)
F- Favorite Color: Red!!! Power, heat, passion, love. twilight.
G- Gummi Bears or Worms: worms-they're twistier.
H- Hometown: In my heart, Moscow, Russia-the ultimate heartland. In actuality, Orem.
I- Indulgence(s): Sugar cookies, homestyle pop corn, disneyland, hot tamales and arrested development!
J- January or July: July for sure. SUMMER!
K- Kids: The highlight of everyday: McKenzie Kate, Henry Indiana Alden and Presley Annele.
L-Life is Incomplete Without: Family, Rainy days to curl up with a good book, vacations and yet coming home, fabulous girlfriends to talk to and the one and only, Brent.
M- Marriage Date: August 12, 1998
N- Number of Siblings: 2 sisters, 4 step-sisters, but don't ask me to explain the Y chromosome for those guys!
O- Oranges or Apples: Oranges. The smell just wakes me up and it is how I met my favorite investigator as a missionary!
P- Phobias or Fears: Losing someone i love, going underground, and if HILIARy clinton is voted for in as President. Welcome second coming!
Q- Quote(s): "Be the change you wish to see in the world" ghandi
R- Reason To Smile: that i'm a mom and wife!
S- Season: spring or Fall-for sure!!! warming up or warming down, wonderful evenings, the promise of something to come.
T- Tag Three +: Heather, Katie Roberts, and Aubri.
U- Unknown Fact About Me: Not sure. I am an open book.
V- Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animal: BEEN BOTH. I DO CRAVE FLESH NOW THOUGH.
W- Worst Habit: Picking my split ends. Done it since I was 13. TWENTY FREAKING YEARS!!! So sad!
X- X-Rays or Ultrasounds: for sure Ultrasounds.
Y- Your Favorite Food: greasy burger and french fries, carrabas chicken marsala, la carretta, and my new one, DISNEYLANDS giant sugar cookie and cocoa! AHHHH!
Z- Zodiac: TAURUS! Bull baby. You mess with the bull, you get the horns!

Weekend in Wyoming!

2007-08-30T13:48:00.000-07:00

We had a great time last weekend, up in Star Valley, Wyoming with my sisters family. We stayed at the a swingin' lil' place called Carlise Ranch that had plenty of beds, a chuckwagon and it's own pond. It was great to see the kids get nice and dirty and take them on little adventures on the 4-wheeler. Indy and I saw a COYOTE! Brent even went fishing for the 1st time in our married life. So here are some cool pics of the kids. I may even put in thier rump-shaking "MANEATER" routine they did for the talent show! It was fabulous to get away and breathe clean air and just be! Thanks KATIE AND CO!

1st day of SCHOOL!

2007-08-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

Alas, it is that time again! Much as I hated to see my two oldest hit the books, I am happy to see that they will be doing something much more productive with their minds and energies! McKenzie is a beautiful 2nd greater and Indiana is the little heartbreaker 1st grader! TWO GONE ALL DAY! I was glad to have Presley with me yesterday. I"m not ready to be alone yet! She of course, had to get ready and don her backpack for school with Mommy. See pics. They are just growing up too fast for me! Life is beautiful!

Nine Years and counting....

2007-08-13T15:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Brent and I celebrated out 9th wedding anniversary!!! We had too much going on to get away, but it was great to spend the day as a family and gorge ourselves on Alaskan King Crab!!! I really just want to say how incredibly lucky I am to have Brent! All of the incredible, amazing and blissful things in my life are, for the majority, due to that singular MAN! What a blessing August 12, 1998 is. I love "BEIN" GREEN!!!" Here's to 20 million more!

Potty Training 101

2007-08-09T13:03:00.001-07:00

For our last and most stubborn child, if that is at all possible, we have struggled with the old "Potty train." Minnie Mouse ears have helped a bit, but if there are any other suggestions, we certainly are open to them. At least she looks DANG CUTE!

Eclipse Mania!

2007-08-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

We had a fabulous time at out Eclipse Party lusting over vampires, adorning ourselves with temporary tatoos, finding answers to elusive twilight trivia and enjoying good food and great company. Now that the wait is over, I am DYING to have to wait ONE MORE YEAR to see the finale to Bella and Edward's tale! It's like Christmas as a kid all over again! AUGHHH!!!!
(Ironically, McKenzie and Indiana were reading their Waldo books and asked what the word, "OBESESSION" meant. I calmly explained that it is how mommy is with her new book and the meaning was translated to them VERY clearly! "Obsessed!")