Erin had a piano recital last night. She asked her teacher if she could play Mario's favorite Christmas carol, Carol of the Bells. Mrs. Black said that the only copy she had was a duet. So Erin suggested that Eric play it with her. The teacher was thrilled when Eric agreed to the duet since Erin is her most advanced piano student. Now she would have two advanced students in her recital. Eric has never been a fan of recitals so he was hesitant to play when he's not even a piano student. But Mario said it could be his Christmas present and Eric quickly agreed. I think it is the best Christmas present ever from both Eric and Erin. We love when they play the piano together. Erin played Santa Clause is Coming to Town also.
"Life is to be enjoyed, not just endured." Gordon B. Hinckley
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Owl Art
Nathan and Zach drew and painted these in their art class. I thought they were beautiful.
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| Nathan's Owl |
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| Zach's Owl |
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Christmas Picture Outtakes
I have been trying to get our Christmas letter written and a family picture taken to include with our card. I finally gave up on the family picture and decided to just put a picture of the kids from first day of school and then a small picture of Mario and I in the corner. No one liked the double picture on the 4x6 print, so here's the outtakes from our photo session with Erin today. I'm still growing out my hair, its been about 13 months now and I have thought about chopping it all off about a million times. I'll be happy when it's long enough to put in a ponytail.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Nathan and Zach's 9th Birthday
We celebrated the boys' birthdays on Saturday. I allowed them to each invite two friends and we had a little party. I decided that since there was only 1 girl coming, I probably should have some organized games so she didn't feel overwhelmed with the video games. Erin and I came up with about 11 or 12 Minute to Win It games and the party turned out to be a huge success and the games actually made the hours go by very quickly. We finished the day with hot dogs roasted over a fire and of course, Nathan's favorite, Macaroni and Cheese. They loved their new Robot. In fact, the big kids love it too. Good thing, since they have to help program it once it's built. It was a great day and I still can't believe it was 9 years ago that I gave birth to a huge set of twins. No one believes me when I tell them that they were both over 7 lbs.
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| Making donuts for breakfast |
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| Their big present was the Lego Mindstorms Robot |
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| The first and easiest robot to build |
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| Zach, Anthony, Nathan, and Olivia |
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| Minute to Win it games |
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| Tossing mini marshmallows |
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Christmas Tree
We sold our fake tree at a yard sale before leaving Tucson. Now I'm having major regrets. Nice, artificial trees are so expensive. We opted to get a real tree this year and so for FHE, we went to Home Depot and picked one out. We won't be home for Christmas so I didn't care about getting a really nice, expensive one. We picked out the cheapest one they carried. With a military discount, it came to a whole $12.50. Despite being so cheap, I think it actually is a pretty nice tree. We enjoyed decorating at as a family and Eric and Erin each took turns playing Christmas carols as we decorated.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Florida
We've decided to escape the cold and go to Florida for Christmas. We haven't been to Florida for Christmas in many years. Mario and I are big on being at home for Christmas especially since we still have young kids. But Mario's little brother, Alex, is getting married the week of Christmas and Mario planned to go. I didn't think it was quite fair for him to escape the Nebraska winter without me. So I talked him into taking the whole family. The 3 younger kids and I will go for 2 weeks and Mario and Eric for 8 days. We are all excited to see our extended family and to THAW out.
Thanksgiving
Grandpa came to visit this Thanksgiving. On Wednesday, we all went to the Trail Center and took a shortened tour upstairs and then went to the basement where they have a huge gingerbread display. The wards in the area ask members to decorate gingerbread houses so they can display them at the Trail Center. Then they invite schools and families to come see all the houses. It was quite an impressive display. After visiting the Trail Center, we went to the zoo.
After our big Thanksgiving dinner and nap on Thanksgiving, we taught Grandpa and the twins how to play Settlers of Catan. The twins are hooked and want to play daily. I am impressed with how fast they learned the game. It was a great visit with Grandpa. We are all so glad he was able to come.
After our big Thanksgiving dinner and nap on Thanksgiving, we taught Grandpa and the twins how to play Settlers of Catan. The twins are hooked and want to play daily. I am impressed with how fast they learned the game. It was a great visit with Grandpa. We are all so glad he was able to come.
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| Trail Center |
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| Made by Papillion YW and leaders |
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| Houses twins made in Cub Scouts |
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| Table full of houses made by Mario's co-worker |
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| Zoo |
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| Hanging Christmas Lights |
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| Home Depot Gingerbread House with Grandpa |
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| Game of Chess, they haven't played together in over 20 years |
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Jingle Bells
The boys started piano lessons a few months ago. They take from our neighbor, Elaine Stoner. They aren't super thrilled about taking lessons but today they both came home very excited to play Jingle Bells for the family.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Stake Conference
I think the adult session of Stake Conference is my favorite. Last night, our stake was blessed to have Elder Snow visit. Some favorite highlights from last night's talks:
The Stake Relief Society President spoke on the Atonement. My favorite part was, "All that is unfair in life will be made right thru the Atonement." She quoted Mosiah 24:15
And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.
A member of the Stake Presidency talked about how sacrifice is an eternal principle but we are not to sacrifice our families or employment for our callings. Our first calling is to our spouse and then to our children. He said we need to focus more on our families and use the church to help support our families.
The mission president spoke about how the church has received 14,000 new applications for new missionaries since the age change just last month. He urged members to consider allowing the missionaries to come live in their homes. I am assuming that's not an option for our family since I have a teenage daughter. But I'm sure Mario and I would be willing when our children are all grown.
The mission president's wife spoke about making sure others know that we have a testimony of Christ. Do our children know that we are certain by our countenance, by the things we say, etc?
Elder Snow was awesome. He spoke for a few minutes and then opened the meeting up to questions. He didn't put any stipulations on the questions. Most people asked about the new missionary age. One mother asked Elder Snow for advice on raising kids today. I can't remember what prophet he quoted but he said if we will do these 4 things, we have a greater chance of having our children make good decisions. But every child has his/her free agency, these 4 things just help increase the chances.
1. Family Prayer
2. Family Home Evening
3. Family Scripture Study
4. Worthwhile Family Activities
Elder Snow shared in President Hinckley and President Monson's optimism for the future. He said, "We already know who's team wins and the best is yet to come." He reminded us of Good-Better-Best and to keep our lives in balance.
Mario and I wanted to go out for ice cream after the conference, but a thunderstorm was developing so we decided to head home instead. Erin surprised us with a very clean house and Eric had played with the twins until bedtime. What great big kids I have! The younger ones aren't too bad either!
Now we get to enjoy Stake Conference today at 10. But there's a small possibility of snow this morning so my boys are already outside enjoying using their sled on the deck that is covered in ice. I may have a hard time getting them in church clothes in an hour if it really does start snowing. Can you tell we just came from Arizona? I am looking forward to spring already! But yesterday was in the 70's and absolutely beautiful.
The Stake Relief Society President spoke on the Atonement. My favorite part was, "All that is unfair in life will be made right thru the Atonement." She quoted Mosiah 24:15
And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.
A member of the Stake Presidency talked about how sacrifice is an eternal principle but we are not to sacrifice our families or employment for our callings. Our first calling is to our spouse and then to our children. He said we need to focus more on our families and use the church to help support our families.
The mission president spoke about how the church has received 14,000 new applications for new missionaries since the age change just last month. He urged members to consider allowing the missionaries to come live in their homes. I am assuming that's not an option for our family since I have a teenage daughter. But I'm sure Mario and I would be willing when our children are all grown.
The mission president's wife spoke about making sure others know that we have a testimony of Christ. Do our children know that we are certain by our countenance, by the things we say, etc?
Elder Snow was awesome. He spoke for a few minutes and then opened the meeting up to questions. He didn't put any stipulations on the questions. Most people asked about the new missionary age. One mother asked Elder Snow for advice on raising kids today. I can't remember what prophet he quoted but he said if we will do these 4 things, we have a greater chance of having our children make good decisions. But every child has his/her free agency, these 4 things just help increase the chances.
1. Family Prayer
2. Family Home Evening
3. Family Scripture Study
4. Worthwhile Family Activities
Elder Snow shared in President Hinckley and President Monson's optimism for the future. He said, "We already know who's team wins and the best is yet to come." He reminded us of Good-Better-Best and to keep our lives in balance.
Mario and I wanted to go out for ice cream after the conference, but a thunderstorm was developing so we decided to head home instead. Erin surprised us with a very clean house and Eric had played with the twins until bedtime. What great big kids I have! The younger ones aren't too bad either!
Now we get to enjoy Stake Conference today at 10. But there's a small possibility of snow this morning so my boys are already outside enjoying using their sled on the deck that is covered in ice. I may have a hard time getting them in church clothes in an hour if it really does start snowing. Can you tell we just came from Arizona? I am looking forward to spring already! But yesterday was in the 70's and absolutely beautiful.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Election
Well, I am extremely sad to see that there will be no Mormon in the White House this January. We not only lost the presidential election, but the liberals were able to advance their social agendas this year. Eric and Zachary have taken a keen interest in the election and have been following along. Eric has always liked politics, economics, etc so that isn't surprising. I enjoy watching election coverage with him. He pretty much knows as much or maybe more than I do. So he doesn't ask many questions. Zach, on the other hand, is brand new to politics and so trying to explain the electoral college to an 8 year-old has been a challenge. I had to run kids back and forth to activities last night and I was getting aggravated that I couldn't just sit down and watch the election coverage. When I finally did sit down, I got irritated with Zach for asking a question about the election every two seconds. Mario took notice and instead of telling me how wrong I was, (which is what I deserved) he took the boys aside and played a game with them. Zach didn't want to go to bed last night without knowing who won. But of course, we thought it would be a really long night and we wouldn't know until possibly the next day. So I made him go to bed. Mario, Eric, and I went to bed at 10 pm when it was looking pretty dismal for Romney. Within 20 minutes of climbing into bed, I got texts from both my brothers telling me it was over. First question from Zach this morning was, "Who won?" He was so disappointed with my response. But a few minutes later he told me that he would be the first Mormon President. Who knows...I have never met a kid that is a harder worker and gives more service to his family. He'd make a great president one day....and he's Hispanic. I'm thinking it's going to take a minority to win back the White House in the future.
As I reflect this morning on what this election means, it makes me really sad. Not sad for me, but for my 4 children. I already know where I stand with social and economic issues. But for them, if they hold the same values as Mario and I, they will probably live most of their lives in the minority. Our country has gone so far to the left, that I just don't see it ever turning around. Maybe that's pessimistic of me, but I just don't see these social issues moving towards the right ever again. I guess I really shouldn't be surprised with the election results. I think our church leaders have been preparing us for these days for a long time. When I reflect on statements they've made in the past (like Family Proclamation), it just strengthens my testimony. They really are inspired. For me right now, I am grateful to live in a conservative state. All 3 of the kids' schools voted for Romney and not by a slight margin, by a landslide. So I know that there are kids out there that have the same values as my kids right now. I also know that as long as my kids stay faithful in the church, they will always have friends with the same values. So that brings me great comfort on this gloomy day.
As I reflect this morning on what this election means, it makes me really sad. Not sad for me, but for my 4 children. I already know where I stand with social and economic issues. But for them, if they hold the same values as Mario and I, they will probably live most of their lives in the minority. Our country has gone so far to the left, that I just don't see it ever turning around. Maybe that's pessimistic of me, but I just don't see these social issues moving towards the right ever again. I guess I really shouldn't be surprised with the election results. I think our church leaders have been preparing us for these days for a long time. When I reflect on statements they've made in the past (like Family Proclamation), it just strengthens my testimony. They really are inspired. For me right now, I am grateful to live in a conservative state. All 3 of the kids' schools voted for Romney and not by a slight margin, by a landslide. So I know that there are kids out there that have the same values as my kids right now. I also know that as long as my kids stay faithful in the church, they will always have friends with the same values. So that brings me great comfort on this gloomy day.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Halloween, Teeth, Driving, and Showers
It's been a busy week. It started with a trip to orthodontist for Nate. He has a small mouth so we knew he'd need braces. Turns out he has cross bite, overbite, and crowding. They wanted to start treating him immediately. Fortunately his cub master is an ortho for the military and he assured us there is no rush to get him started. He's only 8. But we will have some baby teeth extracted to make some room for adult teeth to come in properly.
Saturday, we attended the ward Halloween party. It was a lot of fun and they even had a band made up of members of the ward that have been playing together like 20 years. They keep getting stationed together. I was handing out Halloween candy when a box of milk duds tempted me. I haven't had one in years. I don't normally eat sticky candy but they looked good. One bite down and I knew something was wrong. Pulled out the candy and thought saw what looked like a tooth. I freaked out until I realized it was a crown and not a whole tooth. So I had to go all weekend trying to keep the crown in temporarily until the dentist could cement it back in. While cementing that crown, he noticed I had a crack in a really old filling and said that I needed a crown for that tooth also. I feel like I get a crown a year.
Monday, Eric and I started officially volunteering at the hospital. I work 8-noon and Eric works 4-7 pm with the other teens. Probably the youngest volunteer in my shift, besides me, is about 70. Most seem to have lost their spouses and looking for a way to pass the time. I am only in training so I don't know where I will be permanently assigned yet. But I worked the desk out front of surgery. We are the liaison between the nurses and the patients' family. I sat in a chair for 4 hours. I can see why some elderly enjoy sitting for so long, but I need a more active job. The coordinator said she'll probably put me down at the welcome center. Eric liked it but said he will have to interact and visit with patients and that makes him a little uncomfortable. I guess it will prepare him for a mission.
In Erin news, she cracked me up last night. We all went to bed around 9. About 10:30, I heard her go in the bathroom. Then I heard her in the shower. I waited a long time for the shower to stop and then went and knocked on the door to see why she was up and showered. She told me she was getting ready for school. I told her the time and she thought I was losing my mind. But then she realized that it was true, she felt like she had only an hour's worth of sleep. Poor girl. This morning she apologized for waking me last night. She's not sure if she dreamt her alarm went off or she was sleepwalking.
Living in Nebraska has some benefits when you are 15. Eric was able to get a school permit which allows him to drive back and forth to school. Today he found out the permit allows him to drive to seminary too. So my life got a lot easier. Mario was driving the truck everyday to work but now Eric takes it to school. So Mario is on the lookout for another truck.
I'm trying desperately to think of a good Zach story since I mentioned the rest of the kids in this blog. But I'm having a hard time thinking up anything at the moment. All I can think of is how frustrated he gets with Nathan sometimes for worrying about him so much. Zach is a risk taker and Nate is not normally. So Zach petting a dog that he was once told bites, freaks Nate out. Now that I think about it, I guess it should freak me out too. I adore Zach. He has such a kind heart.
Looks like Mario will get a break from our Nebraska winter and head to Florida fora couple days after Christmas. His brother, Alex is getting married in the Orlando Temple. If its below freezing while he's gone, I will never let him live it down that he left us here in Nebraska to freeze. Seriously,that is exciting news for Alex.
Best news of the week, I ran 2.5 miles straight on my treadmill. I'm making progress. I love putting my headphones on and singing my heart out while running. My family only wishes I knew how to sing.
Saturday, we attended the ward Halloween party. It was a lot of fun and they even had a band made up of members of the ward that have been playing together like 20 years. They keep getting stationed together. I was handing out Halloween candy when a box of milk duds tempted me. I haven't had one in years. I don't normally eat sticky candy but they looked good. One bite down and I knew something was wrong. Pulled out the candy and thought saw what looked like a tooth. I freaked out until I realized it was a crown and not a whole tooth. So I had to go all weekend trying to keep the crown in temporarily until the dentist could cement it back in. While cementing that crown, he noticed I had a crack in a really old filling and said that I needed a crown for that tooth also. I feel like I get a crown a year.
Monday, Eric and I started officially volunteering at the hospital. I work 8-noon and Eric works 4-7 pm with the other teens. Probably the youngest volunteer in my shift, besides me, is about 70. Most seem to have lost their spouses and looking for a way to pass the time. I am only in training so I don't know where I will be permanently assigned yet. But I worked the desk out front of surgery. We are the liaison between the nurses and the patients' family. I sat in a chair for 4 hours. I can see why some elderly enjoy sitting for so long, but I need a more active job. The coordinator said she'll probably put me down at the welcome center. Eric liked it but said he will have to interact and visit with patients and that makes him a little uncomfortable. I guess it will prepare him for a mission.
In Erin news, she cracked me up last night. We all went to bed around 9. About 10:30, I heard her go in the bathroom. Then I heard her in the shower. I waited a long time for the shower to stop and then went and knocked on the door to see why she was up and showered. She told me she was getting ready for school. I told her the time and she thought I was losing my mind. But then she realized that it was true, she felt like she had only an hour's worth of sleep. Poor girl. This morning she apologized for waking me last night. She's not sure if she dreamt her alarm went off or she was sleepwalking.
Living in Nebraska has some benefits when you are 15. Eric was able to get a school permit which allows him to drive back and forth to school. Today he found out the permit allows him to drive to seminary too. So my life got a lot easier. Mario was driving the truck everyday to work but now Eric takes it to school. So Mario is on the lookout for another truck.
I'm trying desperately to think of a good Zach story since I mentioned the rest of the kids in this blog. But I'm having a hard time thinking up anything at the moment. All I can think of is how frustrated he gets with Nathan sometimes for worrying about him so much. Zach is a risk taker and Nate is not normally. So Zach petting a dog that he was once told bites, freaks Nate out. Now that I think about it, I guess it should freak me out too. I adore Zach. He has such a kind heart.
Looks like Mario will get a break from our Nebraska winter and head to Florida fora couple days after Christmas. His brother, Alex is getting married in the Orlando Temple. If its below freezing while he's gone, I will never let him live it down that he left us here in Nebraska to freeze. Seriously,that is exciting news for Alex.
Best news of the week, I ran 2.5 miles straight on my treadmill. I'm making progress. I love putting my headphones on and singing my heart out while running. My family only wishes I knew how to sing.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Stake Relief Society Conference
Our Stake had a Relief Society Conference yesterday. There were 9 classes to choose from and we could only pick 3 to attend. I wish that I could have attended at least 6 of them, but the 3 I chose were Parenting Teens, The Lord Looks on the Heart, and Building Strong Boys.
I noticed a few sisters in the Parenting Teens class that don't even have teens yet. After that class, they were probably wishing they didn't attend it. I think the teacher and the discussions probably made them have nightmares last night. I think back to my teen years, and I thought they were hard. I can honestly say that I don't think what I faced then was anything compared to what these teens are facing now. I think of myself as a very controlling person but I have come to realize that unfortunately, it is not God's plan for me to control my children. We have each been given our free agency and we must use it. How grateful I am to have taught my teens correct principles. Now it is time for them to govern themselves. Of course, Mario and I are responsible for setting up rules and guidelines, especially when it comes to things they do in our own home. Our home is a haven, we will not allow the filth of the world to enter. If they want to find filth, they will have to go out into the world to find it. I'm grateful for the class on teens. It reminded me that I think I am on the right path. Love my children unconditionally, teach them the gospel, and pray a lot for them.
The second class I attended was taught by one of my best friends here, Lucretia Hall. It was about not judging others. She was the perfect person to teach this class. She didn't tell the story in the class, but she has told me the story about how her husband's first wife and her are very good friends. Joe, her husband, was married to a woman for a few years and they had two young boys. The wife just left him one day with the boys. He then married Lucretia and she has raised the boys ever since. But Lucretia befriended Joe's first wife right away because she knew that would be best for those boys. She has even invited her to stay at their home on Christmas Eve so she would be there for the boys on Christmas morning. I just can't think of a more Christlike person. She told some stories in the class that helped shape how she is today. I have found more than once, that when I have judged someone for something, me or my family member has ended up doing the exact same thing that I once judged them for. So I am more careful about judging others now for that very reason. Heavenly Father has a way of humbling us. Another thing I have noticed is that occasionally I have judged someone poorly and then ended up very good friends with them afterwards.
The third class was on Building Strong Boys. This class was taught by a husband and a wife and was very good. The wife said that several years ago she attended a RS parenting class and the teacher was talking about the joy of motherhood. She was not feeling the joy and she wondered why. Instead of trying to change her kids so she could find joy, she had to change herself. She asked herself, what am I doing wrong that I am not feeling the joy. She talked about how she felt her kids were sometimes interfering with her hobbies, work, etc. She decided right then that she had to put her whole heart and soul into raising her children. It is our season to be a mother and we need to focus on being the best mom we can be. Our time with our young children is short, take advantage and submit ourselves fully to motherhood. She talked about how are children are a reflection of us, if we gossip, etc, don't be surprised when our children do the same. Mario and I have noticed that we have been too critical of some of the leaders and programs, especially in Tucson. Now we here the same criticisms coming out of Eric's mouth occasionally. It is a humbling experience to sit down with a child and explain that what we did was wrong and we had to repent.
This class talked about the war on boys. To often tv shows and movies portray men as weak. Is that the message we want sent to our sons? One person in the class thought that the church has spiritual programs in place for the Young Women, but not enough for the boys. The teachers and I didn't agree with that statement. I think that Scouts helps our young boys turn into men. It makes them self-reliant, strong leaders. I have seen the benefits of Eric doing his Eagle Project. I feel the Lord puts in strong male leaders with strong testimonies for these young men. They have devotionals by the campfires. They have the Duty to God program. How thankful I am for these leaders and these programs in raising my boys (and daughter.)
I am grateful for Relief Society leaders and for all the efforts they make to help us as sisters endure to the end.
I noticed a few sisters in the Parenting Teens class that don't even have teens yet. After that class, they were probably wishing they didn't attend it. I think the teacher and the discussions probably made them have nightmares last night. I think back to my teen years, and I thought they were hard. I can honestly say that I don't think what I faced then was anything compared to what these teens are facing now. I think of myself as a very controlling person but I have come to realize that unfortunately, it is not God's plan for me to control my children. We have each been given our free agency and we must use it. How grateful I am to have taught my teens correct principles. Now it is time for them to govern themselves. Of course, Mario and I are responsible for setting up rules and guidelines, especially when it comes to things they do in our own home. Our home is a haven, we will not allow the filth of the world to enter. If they want to find filth, they will have to go out into the world to find it. I'm grateful for the class on teens. It reminded me that I think I am on the right path. Love my children unconditionally, teach them the gospel, and pray a lot for them.
The second class I attended was taught by one of my best friends here, Lucretia Hall. It was about not judging others. She was the perfect person to teach this class. She didn't tell the story in the class, but she has told me the story about how her husband's first wife and her are very good friends. Joe, her husband, was married to a woman for a few years and they had two young boys. The wife just left him one day with the boys. He then married Lucretia and she has raised the boys ever since. But Lucretia befriended Joe's first wife right away because she knew that would be best for those boys. She has even invited her to stay at their home on Christmas Eve so she would be there for the boys on Christmas morning. I just can't think of a more Christlike person. She told some stories in the class that helped shape how she is today. I have found more than once, that when I have judged someone for something, me or my family member has ended up doing the exact same thing that I once judged them for. So I am more careful about judging others now for that very reason. Heavenly Father has a way of humbling us. Another thing I have noticed is that occasionally I have judged someone poorly and then ended up very good friends with them afterwards.
The third class was on Building Strong Boys. This class was taught by a husband and a wife and was very good. The wife said that several years ago she attended a RS parenting class and the teacher was talking about the joy of motherhood. She was not feeling the joy and she wondered why. Instead of trying to change her kids so she could find joy, she had to change herself. She asked herself, what am I doing wrong that I am not feeling the joy. She talked about how she felt her kids were sometimes interfering with her hobbies, work, etc. She decided right then that she had to put her whole heart and soul into raising her children. It is our season to be a mother and we need to focus on being the best mom we can be. Our time with our young children is short, take advantage and submit ourselves fully to motherhood. She talked about how are children are a reflection of us, if we gossip, etc, don't be surprised when our children do the same. Mario and I have noticed that we have been too critical of some of the leaders and programs, especially in Tucson. Now we here the same criticisms coming out of Eric's mouth occasionally. It is a humbling experience to sit down with a child and explain that what we did was wrong and we had to repent.
This class talked about the war on boys. To often tv shows and movies portray men as weak. Is that the message we want sent to our sons? One person in the class thought that the church has spiritual programs in place for the Young Women, but not enough for the boys. The teachers and I didn't agree with that statement. I think that Scouts helps our young boys turn into men. It makes them self-reliant, strong leaders. I have seen the benefits of Eric doing his Eagle Project. I feel the Lord puts in strong male leaders with strong testimonies for these young men. They have devotionals by the campfires. They have the Duty to God program. How thankful I am for these leaders and these programs in raising my boys (and daughter.)
I am grateful for Relief Society leaders and for all the efforts they make to help us as sisters endure to the end.
Friday, October 19, 2012
Treadmill
Mario bought me a treadmill just after the twins were born. So it's almost 9 years old. Over the last year, it would start shutting off in the middle of our runs. I wanted to trash it before moving this summer but Mario insisted we keep it. I finally got around to researching what I needed to do to fix it. Turns out, we were supposed to lubricate the belt every 6 months. I found nothing about this in the instruction manual. I bought some lubricant and applied it last night.
My friends all wimped out on our morning walk around the lake this morning. So I decided it was a good time to see if the lubrication would really solve my problem with the motor shutting off. I ran two miles straight. To most people, that is nothing. But I haven't run two miles straight in at least 2.5 years due to my knee and hip injuries. So I'm pretty excited to get back to running and I pretty excited that Mario didn't let me throw the treadmill away. I'm going to need it through this Nebraska winter! For $15, I think I fixed our treadmill. Hurray!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
My friends all wimped out on our morning walk around the lake this morning. So I decided it was a good time to see if the lubrication would really solve my problem with the motor shutting off. I ran two miles straight. To most people, that is nothing. But I haven't run two miles straight in at least 2.5 years due to my knee and hip injuries. So I'm pretty excited to get back to running and I pretty excited that Mario didn't let me throw the treadmill away. I'm going to need it through this Nebraska winter! For $15, I think I fixed our treadmill. Hurray!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Zachary's Breakfast in Bed
Every once in awhile, Zach will surprise be with breakfast in bed. Now that he can cook scrambled eggs on his own, it is usually eggs with toast and some fruit. He even remembers to bring me a drink. Today he let Nate help so Nate buttered the toast. Zach shows his love for me by doing service. He is not an overly affectionate child. In fact, the only time he gives hugs willingly is at bedtime. Nate is the opposite, he loves giving hugs but usually doesn't go out of his way to do extra chores for me.
After breakfast in bed, Zach joined me for my run/walk around the lake. It is just over 3 miles and with the help of more physical therapy, I've started running some of it. The most I have run so far is 1.5 miles in a row so I have a long way to go until I can run like I did before all my injuries. But I'm getting there, slowly. I enjoyed my time with Zach. He enjoyed climbing the wall that Lucretia and I enjoy climbing occasionally during our weekday morning walks around the lake.
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After breakfast in bed, Zach joined me for my run/walk around the lake. It is just over 3 miles and with the help of more physical therapy, I've started running some of it. The most I have run so far is 1.5 miles in a row so I have a long way to go until I can run like I did before all my injuries. But I'm getting there, slowly. I enjoyed my time with Zach. He enjoyed climbing the wall that Lucretia and I enjoy climbing occasionally during our weekday morning walks around the lake.
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Gladys Knight
Our stake was fortunate enough to be invited to see Gladys Knight and her choir-Saints Unified Voices. The concert was held at the West Omaha Stake. It was a packed house and you had to get (free) tickets in advance if you wanted to attend.
It was an amazing concert. I had never heard anything like it in a Mormon church before. When I was a teenager, I attended a Pentecostal church on a weeknight with a friend once. The music portion reminded me of that church meeting. There was a keyboard and a bass guitar accompanying the singers. Most of the singers were white, but if you closed your eyes, it almost sounded like an African American choir (I wasn't the only one that thought that, even her husband thinks so.) I had never heard "I am Child of God" sang so interestingly. I didn't know what to expect but I guess I had it in my mind that it would be Mormon Tabernacle Choir"ish". It was nothing like the Tab. Eric is thinking he may want to convert to Baptist or Pentecostal because he thought the music made the meeting much more entertaining. Not really, but he does wish our ward choir sang a little more like Sister Knight's Choir.
Gladys Knight's husband shared his testimony and then she got up to share hers as well. She spent over 30 minutes bearing her testimony of the Restored Gospel. It was amazing! She touched so many people. The missionaries were handed a lot of referral cards from the investigators attending the concert. loved it and I admire Gladys Knight for all her missionary work she is doing.
It was an amazing concert. I had never heard anything like it in a Mormon church before. When I was a teenager, I attended a Pentecostal church on a weeknight with a friend once. The music portion reminded me of that church meeting. There was a keyboard and a bass guitar accompanying the singers. Most of the singers were white, but if you closed your eyes, it almost sounded like an African American choir (I wasn't the only one that thought that, even her husband thinks so.) I had never heard "I am Child of God" sang so interestingly. I didn't know what to expect but I guess I had it in my mind that it would be Mormon Tabernacle Choir"ish". It was nothing like the Tab. Eric is thinking he may want to convert to Baptist or Pentecostal because he thought the music made the meeting much more entertaining. Not really, but he does wish our ward choir sang a little more like Sister Knight's Choir.
Gladys Knight's husband shared his testimony and then she got up to share hers as well. She spent over 30 minutes bearing her testimony of the Restored Gospel. It was amazing! She touched so many people. The missionaries were handed a lot of referral cards from the investigators attending the concert. loved it and I admire Gladys Knight for all her missionary work she is doing.
Grandma and Papa's Visit
Fortunately we live directly on the route from Utah to Florida. So my parents were able to stop through Omaha on their way home. It was nice to see my mom walk unassisted and eating better. They got here last Saturday after the first session of General Conference. We enjoyed a full weekend of General Conference, then on Monday, Mario and I took them to see the church sites in the area. We have the Winter Quarter's Temple, the cemetery, and a visitor's center. While looking for a place to eat lunch in Council Bluffs, we accidentally ran right into the Kanesville Tabernacle. I hadn't really heard much about it. But it is a meetinghouse built by 200 pioneers in 2 weeks. It was built so they would have a place to sustain Brigham Young as the second prophet. After touring that, we decided to go to lunch at Spaghetti Works which is at Old Market in Omaha. My mom loved her spaghetti dish and she ate the whole thing minus a few pieces of Italian Sausage that she shared with me.
We wish they could have stayed with us longer. But they were in a hurry to get back home to Florida. They have been gone for 6 months and there's no place like home, especially if you are recovering from an injury like my mom's. I am amazed that she was able to ride all the way from Utah to Florida in the front seat of a van in just a week and she had spent a few of those days at my house. I am sure she'll continue to amaze us with her recovery.
ATV Accident
Back in the middle of September, my parents were still on their mission but on p-day. So they went for an ATV ride with two other couples. My mom lost control of her ATV due to a brace and glove she had on her right hand. She was accidentally accelerating with the hand controls. She went off the path and down a hill until she hit a tree. She became pinned under the ATV. By the time my dad got back to her, others had started lifting the ATV off her. When my dad first saw her, he wasn't sure if she was alive or not. She was curled up on the ground, knocked unconscious for a minute I think. They were able to pull my mom out by her shoulders and sat her up on a log. She was able to stand also but her back was in a lot of pain. They gave her a blessing and after the blessing, they felt that she would be ok and it would be ok to get her off the mountain. My dad said that they were so remote, that not even a helicopter would have gotten to her. It took a long time, but they were able to get her off the mountain and into a car. She thought that she just needed a chiropractor to adjust her back. But after taking x-rays, the chiropractor told her to go to the ER. He had no idea how serious her injuries were, but he knew she had broken her back. My dad called me after they got to the ER which was several hours after the accident happened. My crazy mother walked into the ER on her own. But the Dr came in with scissors and tried to cut her clothes off of her in fear that if she moved, she could be paralyzed. Turns out, she had 3 broken vertebrae and one was broken in 3 spots. I think the Drs were shocked that she wasn't paralyzed already because her spinal cord was not being protected and after all that she had been through that day (being dragged out from under the ATV, walking, riding an ATV off the mountain, and then riding in a car) it was a miracle she was doing as well as she was.
The drs scheduled surgery for Thursday morning. I had some frequent flyer miles, so I flew into SLC the day of surgery. She was in a hospital in Provo, so I rented a car and drove down. My dad didn't really think I should come, but I felt like they could both use some support. My dad was able to get a room really cheap across the street with two full size beds. I had planned to stay at the hospital all night with my mom, but the hospital room really didn't have anything better than a folding chair for me to sleep on. I felt guilty not staying at the hospital though especially when my mom slept so poorly and the nurses weren't as attentive in the evening.
My mom did amazing. She had the surgery and within a few hours, she got her back brace and she was up walking by her bed. Each day after that, she walked more and more. I got to stay until Sunday night, then I drove up to West Jordan to stay the night with my cousin Tim and his family since my flight out of SLC was at 7 am Monday morning.
It was tough seeing my mom have to lay in a hospital bed most of the day and have a hard time eating. My mom is just like her mother, very active. So I know this was a very hard time for her. But it is good to see my dad be so loving and take care of her every need. I don't know why this happened to her, but I do know that it was a miracle she survived. If she hadn't hit that tree (which is bad enough) she would have hit a large log laying across the path. She would have surely been thrown and killed if she had hit that. So her work on this earth is obviously not done. Heavenly Father has certainly blessed her and even though her recovery will be long, I know that she will be back to her active self as soon as possible.
My parents left their mission about a week early, but they will return next summer. And my mom is looking forward to climbing those poles again. She is amazing. I'm not sure she'll be as anxious to get back on her ATV though. They are considering selling them but they are a requirement of the mission. But I think their leaders will understand if they choose not to ride them anymore.
The drs scheduled surgery for Thursday morning. I had some frequent flyer miles, so I flew into SLC the day of surgery. She was in a hospital in Provo, so I rented a car and drove down. My dad didn't really think I should come, but I felt like they could both use some support. My dad was able to get a room really cheap across the street with two full size beds. I had planned to stay at the hospital all night with my mom, but the hospital room really didn't have anything better than a folding chair for me to sleep on. I felt guilty not staying at the hospital though especially when my mom slept so poorly and the nurses weren't as attentive in the evening.
My mom did amazing. She had the surgery and within a few hours, she got her back brace and she was up walking by her bed. Each day after that, she walked more and more. I got to stay until Sunday night, then I drove up to West Jordan to stay the night with my cousin Tim and his family since my flight out of SLC was at 7 am Monday morning.
It was tough seeing my mom have to lay in a hospital bed most of the day and have a hard time eating. My mom is just like her mother, very active. So I know this was a very hard time for her. But it is good to see my dad be so loving and take care of her every need. I don't know why this happened to her, but I do know that it was a miracle she survived. If she hadn't hit that tree (which is bad enough) she would have hit a large log laying across the path. She would have surely been thrown and killed if she had hit that. So her work on this earth is obviously not done. Heavenly Father has certainly blessed her and even though her recovery will be long, I know that she will be back to her active self as soon as possible.
My parents left their mission about a week early, but they will return next summer. And my mom is looking forward to climbing those poles again. She is amazing. I'm not sure she'll be as anxious to get back on her ATV though. They are considering selling them but they are a requirement of the mission. But I think their leaders will understand if they choose not to ride them anymore.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
My 4 Steps to Raising Children
I have been struggling trying to get a grip of being a mother to teenagers. I have to admit, I wasn't fond of my own teen years. They were difficult years and I am glad to be past them. I would never want to re-live those years. But unfortunately, I feel like I am in a way, re-living them again through my own children. One thing that I have learned through having teens, is not to sweat the small stuff. What I mean by that, is anything my twins do at 8 IS small stuff. I am so much more relaxed with them because I realize these things now. My poor older kids had it tough. I sweat about all kinds of small stuff.
As I was preparing to go to the Temple yesterday morning, I was thinking about how much I stress over the teenagers and all they go through. I used to say that the pioneers had it so much harder than we have it now. I have changed my mind. These teenagers have it equally as difficult if not more difficult. I decided to come up with some steps to parenting to help me focus and not stress so much. Within about 5 seconds, I came up with the first 3 steps and then Mario suggested the 4th step which is completely necessary.
1. Love your children unconditionally
2. Teach them the gospel
3. Fast and Pray often for them
4. Trust in the Atonement
So now when I get stressed, I try to remember that stress is not part of my four steps. That helps me focus my energies. I love each of my children. They are truly a blessing to me.
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Nonnie and Grandma
I have been meaning to blog about Nonnie and Grandma Bay's visit to Tucson in January. But for some reason, just never got around to it and then forgot. My parents were able to come visit us in mid December for the twins baptism, then they stayed thru Christmas and then thru part of January because they were going on a cruise to Hawaii that left out of California. There was no sense in going all the way home to Florida. Nonnie and Grandma were going on the cruise too so they flew into Arizona a few days before the cruise. We were lucky to be able to spend a few days with them.
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| Four Generation picture-January 2012 |
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| Four Generation picture-January 2001 |
Back-to-School
The first day of school is probably one of my most favorite days of the year, especially since all four of the kids are in school. Here's the first day pics. Nate was the only one that didn't mind posing. But the other three were pretty good sports this year about pics. I guess they figured the torture would end soon if they just cooperated.
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| Trumble Park Elementary |
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| Eric attends Papillion-La Vista South High School |
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| Papillion Jr High School |
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Happy 13th Birthday Erin!
Our house is always busy in August. School starts and back-to-back birthdays. Erin celebrated her 13th birthday on Thursday. We now have 2 teenagers in the house!
Mario had wanted to surprise Erin with a baby grand piano when we moved into our house. But he never had time to go look for one. So we put it off until her birthday. Eric and I went to look for one the week before with a friend but we couldn't find a good one for a good price. But one popped up on Craigslist over the weekend. I emailed and asked some questions about it but before I could arrange a time to see it, the lady selling it, emailed me and said if I took possession this week she would drop the price from $3800 to $2900. I called a piano technician and he met Erin and I at the home on Monday afternoon. We decided we better let Erin in on the surprise just in case she didn't like that particular piano. Erin had no idea where we were going and why. So that was her surprise when we pulled up into a stranger's driveway and walked inside to see the piano. The technician told me that I was getting the piano for a steal. Vivian, the seller, needed to get rid of the piano quick because she was downsizing to a condo and moving out that weekend. She had bought it in 2001 with the intention of learning how to play again. But she had learned in Puerto Rico and the method taught in the US was so different than what she was used to, that she gave up trying. The cool part is that Vivian is Cuban. She was really excited that my little Cuban girl was getting her piano that she was selling well below the value.
The piano was delivered on Erin's birthday. Then we left for a day at the water park and camping at the Mahoney State Park. Erin invited Sydney and Makenzie Hettinger to go with our family. It has been so hot all summer, but on Erin's birthday it finally cooled off and actually was a little chilly for a water park. But we still had fun, especially in the wave pool.
Sydney made Erin the best chocolate pudding pie I have ever had. So we sat around our picnic table and sang Happy Birthday with blown out candles (from the wind) on her pie.
I think Erin had a great 13th birthday. We are all excited about the new piano especially since we have all 4 kids playing now. I am even thinking of taking lessons again. We are keeping our old piano (unless one of my siblings wants it) since it was handed down from my parents. Eric is very sentimental and thinks it needs to stay in the family. So if no one else wants it, I am sending it with him when he buys his first house.
Mario had wanted to surprise Erin with a baby grand piano when we moved into our house. But he never had time to go look for one. So we put it off until her birthday. Eric and I went to look for one the week before with a friend but we couldn't find a good one for a good price. But one popped up on Craigslist over the weekend. I emailed and asked some questions about it but before I could arrange a time to see it, the lady selling it, emailed me and said if I took possession this week she would drop the price from $3800 to $2900. I called a piano technician and he met Erin and I at the home on Monday afternoon. We decided we better let Erin in on the surprise just in case she didn't like that particular piano. Erin had no idea where we were going and why. So that was her surprise when we pulled up into a stranger's driveway and walked inside to see the piano. The technician told me that I was getting the piano for a steal. Vivian, the seller, needed to get rid of the piano quick because she was downsizing to a condo and moving out that weekend. She had bought it in 2001 with the intention of learning how to play again. But she had learned in Puerto Rico and the method taught in the US was so different than what she was used to, that she gave up trying. The cool part is that Vivian is Cuban. She was really excited that my little Cuban girl was getting her piano that she was selling well below the value.
The piano was delivered on Erin's birthday. Then we left for a day at the water park and camping at the Mahoney State Park. Erin invited Sydney and Makenzie Hettinger to go with our family. It has been so hot all summer, but on Erin's birthday it finally cooled off and actually was a little chilly for a water park. But we still had fun, especially in the wave pool.
Sydney made Erin the best chocolate pudding pie I have ever had. So we sat around our picnic table and sang Happy Birthday with blown out candles (from the wind) on her pie.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Happy 15th Birthday Eric
I can't believe that my baby is 15 now. Nebraska allows kids to get their learner's permit to drive on their 15th birthday. If we lived outside of the city limits, (just across the highway) Eric would have been able to drive himself to school.
On Sunday, two of Eric's friends, Ben and Katie, stopped by to bring Eric a cherry pie for his birthday. Both were going out of town this week so they wanted to bring him something early. For his birthday, Eric wanted new clothes, so I took him shopping on Tuesday. He knew he was limited to $100, so he only checked clearance racks and commented that he's been indoctrinated. For his actual birthday yesterday, I made him homemade cinnamon rolls for breakfast. Then he went to the DMV and scored a 100% on his written driving test. Mario took him out driving in his truck. Then we dropped off twins at a friend's house and we went to Jason's Deli on Omaha for lunch. Eric drove the 8 miles home. Mario bought a big grease marker and wrote "student driver" really big on the back windshield. I think that was a great idea because driver's were giving him extra room for lane changes.
We came home and Eric hung out with his friend, Gage until the rest of his friends came over that evening. The had a movie night and just hung out. I didn't realize that Eric liked cherry pie so much. He apparently told the Young Women because we had 2 more cherry pies show up at our home last night.
I think Eric had a great birthday. Each year makes me sad though because it means one year closer to him going off to college. He plans to leave for college as soon as he graduates. That means we only have 2 more birthdays to celebrate with him. He has grown to be such an unbelievable young man. He treats our family well. We all love him very much and I know at least one of my boys wants to be just like him.
On Sunday, two of Eric's friends, Ben and Katie, stopped by to bring Eric a cherry pie for his birthday. Both were going out of town this week so they wanted to bring him something early. For his birthday, Eric wanted new clothes, so I took him shopping on Tuesday. He knew he was limited to $100, so he only checked clearance racks and commented that he's been indoctrinated. For his actual birthday yesterday, I made him homemade cinnamon rolls for breakfast. Then he went to the DMV and scored a 100% on his written driving test. Mario took him out driving in his truck. Then we dropped off twins at a friend's house and we went to Jason's Deli on Omaha for lunch. Eric drove the 8 miles home. Mario bought a big grease marker and wrote "student driver" really big on the back windshield. I think that was a great idea because driver's were giving him extra room for lane changes.
We came home and Eric hung out with his friend, Gage until the rest of his friends came over that evening. The had a movie night and just hung out. I didn't realize that Eric liked cherry pie so much. He apparently told the Young Women because we had 2 more cherry pies show up at our home last night.
I think Eric had a great birthday. Each year makes me sad though because it means one year closer to him going off to college. He plans to leave for college as soon as he graduates. That means we only have 2 more birthdays to celebrate with him. He has grown to be such an unbelievable young man. He treats our family well. We all love him very much and I know at least one of my boys wants to be just like him.
Friday, July 27, 2012
First Nebraska Camping Trip
We finally got a some relief from the triple digits and decided to take advantage and go camping. Mario and the boys spent two nights and Erin and I one night. Eric is in Nauvoo for youth conference. He hates campimg anyway. Our good friends, the Hettinger Family joined us too.
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Prank Wars
Eric had a mess to clean up today. Fortunately his brothers volunteered to help. As you can tell, this ward is full of fun youth.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Sunday, July 22, 2012
New Callings
Mario and I were sustained today. I am the new nursery leader while Mario is the Cub Committee Chair. I am relieved that neither of us have very demanding callings. That will leave a lot of time to spend as a family. But I sure wish Mario was a nursery leader with me. How fun would that be! Nursery is a calling that I have dreaded my whole adult life. But after subbing as Relief Society teacher today, nursery started sounding pretty good. Teaching adults is very intimidating. But I will miss sitting in Relief Society and associating with the wonderful women in my ward. I love my new ward. How come Midwest has such great wards? Must come down to the people in the Midwest.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Charlie's Truck
Mario has regretted selling his truck since the day he sold it. Even though he has a really nice SUV now, it is just not the same as having a truck. Plus, he feels like he has to park far away from every other car so it doesn't get dinged. So he has been looking for a truck to replace his Ranger. One day it occurred to me that my brother, Charlie, would be selling his truck soon. So Mario called him up and begged him to sell the truck to us. I say begged because Charlie had no intention of selling the truck to anyone he knew because it had over 200K miles on it and he was afraid it would break down. But Toyota Tacoma trucks are hard to find used because everyone seems to love them and keep them forever.
Charlie finally gave in after test driving it. Unfortunately, it did need some repairs before he could drive it up to Missouri, so poor Charlie, a couple days after surgery, was outside repairing the truck.
Mario is very happy to be the proud owner of another truck. I'm not sure how long he will have to drive it because Eric will turn 16 in one year. So Eric has every intention of making it his truck and I don't think Mario will let Eric drive his SUV. So unless Eric drives the minivan, he will have to drive the truck, unless we make Eric get a job and buy his own car, which isn't a bad idea either. Eric got to drive the truck around the lake several times and Mario even let him drive on the highway by Jeannie's lake because it is out in the middle of nowhere.
So for now, Mario drives the truck everyday into work, while his SUV stays parked in the garage. It has become the date night vehicle. Maybe it will get more use in the winter when we need 4 wheel drive. Or maybe we should sell it and put the money back into our retirement house fund.
Charlie finally gave in after test driving it. Unfortunately, it did need some repairs before he could drive it up to Missouri, so poor Charlie, a couple days after surgery, was outside repairing the truck.
Mario is very happy to be the proud owner of another truck. I'm not sure how long he will have to drive it because Eric will turn 16 in one year. So Eric has every intention of making it his truck and I don't think Mario will let Eric drive his SUV. So unless Eric drives the minivan, he will have to drive the truck, unless we make Eric get a job and buy his own car, which isn't a bad idea either. Eric got to drive the truck around the lake several times and Mario even let him drive on the highway by Jeannie's lake because it is out in the middle of nowhere.
So for now, Mario drives the truck everyday into work, while his SUV stays parked in the garage. It has become the date night vehicle. Maybe it will get more use in the winter when we need 4 wheel drive. Or maybe we should sell it and put the money back into our retirement house fund.
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