Here is a view of Asher in his car seat. After downing a jar of baby food, he was talking up a storm on our drive. We love this little boy! Dirty but sweet. Grandma, dont you miss me?!!?
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Love on the run
Here is a view of Asher in his car seat. After downing a jar of baby food, he was talking up a storm on our drive. We love this little boy! Dirty but sweet. Grandma, dont you miss me?!!?
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Spring has Offically begun!
What to do when the weather hits 65 degrees and you have the day off and no kids? Go play in central park of course!
Mike and I ditched the kids at my parents for the day Friday. We decided that we needed a day to ourselves to enjoy the spring weather and Manhattan. Since we have done most of the tourist stuff in the city, we decided to just have a day of uptown relaxation and great food. (I ought to mention that I am addicted to chowhound.com for foodie recommendations, so our restaurant choice is always an adventure. Columbus Circle has some great food. The Manhattan temple is on Columbus if you ever get in that area.)
I am one of the few people I know that would move to Manhattan in a heartbeat. I love everything about the city. I didnt realize how truly comfortable I am in the city until I was approached several times for directions and subway help. Without consulting a map it was easy for me to inform people. I was excited that I have actually gotten that familiar with it. Anyway, here are some random pictures. Please excuse my tired eyes and half asleep face. I had been up with kids all night before we went. It wasnt until a must have stop at Sephora that I actually looked half way normal. Thats is my favorite thing about the city, I go in looking like garbage, and leave with too much stuff and a free makeover. Love it! I did leave out a ton a pictures to spare you from 40+ pics. I left out the East Village and Serendipity , but you should be warned...never try to eat there when its spring break. Too many teens!
We ended the day with meeting my brother Neal in Time Square (he works at a PR firm in Time Square) to head back to my parents. I of course, couldnt leave without hitting up my favorite Street Vendor for a lamb gyro!!! Thanks Haziz, your the man!
Breakfast at Rockefeller Center. We love 30 Rock so we couldnt pass up this photo op.
A totally unplanned sighting of Kathy Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb after breakfast.
Pretty fun to see. We noticed some cameras waiting for someone, so we thought we'd see who they were waiting for out a back door. To my disappointment, it was not Matt Lauer.
Ice Skating and some flapjacks anyone?
This is Dylans Candy Bar. Its a fun little store to get the kids some treats. Mike looks like he is willy wonka.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Alice in Wonderland. Central Park East.
This is one of my favorite parts of the Central Park. The Shakespeare Garden. So cute and quiet. Its full of English flowers and a darling English style fence.
The inscription is very sweet to their loved one who passed away. Reads" This bud of love, by summers ripening breath, May prove a beauteous flow'r when next we meet"
Lunch time...yummy!
A Central Park view
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Life is a Dance...enjoy it, even if you look stupid.
Things have been wonderfully busy this past week. I must admit, my favorite thing about living outside of Utah is the responsibility that falls to members to actively contribute to the ward. There is a level of complacency that befalls some people who live amongst the masses. I am not saying Utah is a bad place to live, just that we became viewers of the work, rather than actively involved. I guess I had the attitude that there are a million people in the ward who can do it. So many people who are more talented, more who are less busy, more who want that job. So, I was ok to just let others do it and sit back and watch. We have really enjoyed staying busy with church stuff while we have been here. I have been on the Enrichment committee for over 14 mths. I just got called to be a co-chair for the Ward Activities. And recently was given the assignment of directing the ward Roadshow. I feel really blessed to have such willing ward members and good friends to help me with my tasks. I would never campaign for calling, but I dont mind staying involved. I really enjoy all the relationships and lessons I have learned from serving and participating.
I've chosen Step In Time from Mary Poppins as our Broadway number. I hope it will all turn out. I've got some very creative people who are helping me get it on its feet. I think the youth will really enjoy it. As most things Broadway, its had a little drama already, my original plans were initially accepted and the rejected by outside parties.Its nothing that will crush my spirits, just one of the trials of being a first time director, I guess. Our roadshow is done in 24 hrs, so I can plan things, gather things/props, materials. I just cant make anything or teach choreography/music until 24 hrs before we preform. It should be interesting!
My other time taker this past month has been ZUMBA. Have you ever heard of such a thing? Honestly, I hadnt initially. I just went to a class at the gym one night and was hooked. I try to go as much as possible. Im even trying to get certified to teach.
I really just wanted to get some cardio from something other than the treadmill. I was getting a little bored.I walked in and was in Heaven, its totally me! Im sure some people will not like that I have "junk in my trunk" and still think I can teach a cardio class. Especially since the instructor right now is a stick (but I love her!). In some ways, that is the beauty of Zumba. All different body types, all moving in their own way. Its awesome and so fun. We'll see how it goes. The certification isnt until June. In the meantime, Im at the gym 4-5 days a wk. Poor Mike is sick of making the kids meals, but bless his heart, he wants me to feel good so he deals with it. There is a woman who is in her late 60's, she is always talking to me at class. She loves coming because she says it makes her feel sexy...how's that for an endorsement.Seriously, try it if you have access to it at your gym!
I guess both these thoughts are connected in theory. Church activity, getting invovled, trying new things, living life to the fullest, taking risks. Its the age old euphemism " I hope you dance"!
Since I like having something visual with my posts, here is what ZUMBA looks like.
I've chosen Step In Time from Mary Poppins as our Broadway number. I hope it will all turn out. I've got some very creative people who are helping me get it on its feet. I think the youth will really enjoy it. As most things Broadway, its had a little drama already, my original plans were initially accepted and the rejected by outside parties.Its nothing that will crush my spirits, just one of the trials of being a first time director, I guess. Our roadshow is done in 24 hrs, so I can plan things, gather things/props, materials. I just cant make anything or teach choreography/music until 24 hrs before we preform. It should be interesting!
My other time taker this past month has been ZUMBA. Have you ever heard of such a thing? Honestly, I hadnt initially. I just went to a class at the gym one night and was hooked. I try to go as much as possible. Im even trying to get certified to teach.
I really just wanted to get some cardio from something other than the treadmill. I was getting a little bored.I walked in and was in Heaven, its totally me! Im sure some people will not like that I have "junk in my trunk" and still think I can teach a cardio class. Especially since the instructor right now is a stick (but I love her!). In some ways, that is the beauty of Zumba. All different body types, all moving in their own way. Its awesome and so fun. We'll see how it goes. The certification isnt until June. In the meantime, Im at the gym 4-5 days a wk. Poor Mike is sick of making the kids meals, but bless his heart, he wants me to feel good so he deals with it. There is a woman who is in her late 60's, she is always talking to me at class. She loves coming because she says it makes her feel sexy...how's that for an endorsement.Seriously, try it if you have access to it at your gym!
I guess both these thoughts are connected in theory. Church activity, getting invovled, trying new things, living life to the fullest, taking risks. Its the age old euphemism " I hope you dance"!
Since I like having something visual with my posts, here is what ZUMBA looks like.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
St. Patricks Parade
Living in the east has given us plenty of opportunities to see culture. One event that isnt really as community driven in the west, as it is in the east, is St. Patricks Day. People really get into this holiday out here. I dont blame them. Irish food is good, the music is great and their accents are amazing and sexy! Here are some pictures from the YORK (about 40 min away) St. Patty's parade. It was a blast!
Our favorites were all the bagpipe groups that were in the parade. There were at least 5. They were the boys dancing favorites!
Love those pipes!
I love this dudes cigar! So funny. York is a civil war city.
Did you know that Delorians were made in Ireland??? I didnt...but apparently they are. According to the sign in this dudes window. Which actually makes some sense in an Irish parade..."Hello, McFLY!"
Sexy legs brother!
This dude had the coolest mask. I wanted it so bad. He was also a Celtic wood nymph. A drunken, spazy forest dweller. Notice his drinking mug tied to his waist. I really liked his costume!
Some of the wood nymphs. See her cute wings? Asher loved her drumming.
The boys didnt like this guy!
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Tagged
Ok, so my cousin Hannah tagged me. I decided to participate since my blog has been awfully boring with no new pictures lately. My 4th picture in my 4th folder was an cute photo of my mother in law and some of the grandkids. Lex, Mason and Asher were reunited in October went I went to Utah for my sisters wedding. Mike stayed home with the twins.My gorgeous mother in law wont let me show pictures of her to anyone. Im lucky if I even manage to get a shot of her, she avoids all photo ops. But as you can see, she is lovely. I miss her and love her tons!
I tag: Jenny, Jodi, Jana & Sunnee
Thursday, March 5, 2009
RESOLVED:
My new years goal again this year was to read 2 books a month. Though this book took me nearly 6 weeks to read, it was worth it.
I have finally completed reading JOHN ADAMS by DAVID MCCULLOUGH.
What a fantastic book! I loved every second of it.
There were a so many moments and insights that brought out a range of emotions in me.
A funny story that made me laugh was about Benjamin Franklin and John Adams.Traveling to Staten Island for a meeting with the British Lord Howe (who would try to talk them out of seperating from Britian and resolve the looming war),they stayed overnight at an inn. The inn was full, so both men were made to share a room and a bed.Both men were rather fat, which as you can imagine made me laugh at loud at the thought of two fat dudes in a bed together.
So here they are, climbing into bed, when Franklin sees that due to Adams size, the only small window to the room will be blocked. Franklin freaked out stating that they would both suffocate.He reminded Adams about his belief in the benefits of fresh air, which was contrary to common thought at the time.. He demanded that Adams change him positions in the bed. He slept next to the open window and retold Adams all about his health theories, which he had in fact already published. Adams had already read the publication, but listened politely afraid that he would awake sick or croupy in the morning. He fell asleep during the lecture but awoke feeling refreshed and relieved.
I was moved at a story about Adams meeting with the King of England, post war. Adams, was appointed minister from the US to the Kings court. In his address to the king, Adams said: "I shall esteem myself the happiest of men if I can be instrumental in recommending my country more and more to your Majesty's royal benevolence, and of restoring and entire esteem, confidence , and affection or in better words, the old good nature and the old good humor between people who, though separated by an ocean and under different governments, have the same language, a similar religion, and kindred blood". They both were overcome with emotion. After all, the people (American and British), even though they were enemies in war and killed thousands of eachother, were still connected by blood & linegage. Can you imagine going to war with your kinsman? We have no idea what these people went through emotionally during the war both American and British. Both men spoke with quivering voices and much difficulty, holding back emotion as they now sat face to face as seperate countries. I can only imagine standing on the sidelines watching them. It fills my eyes with tears to think about it.
An issue that the book goes into that is fascinating, is the idea of equality.
Adams objected to the line in the Declaration that states that "all men are created equal". He didnt believe this and did not want it added. He believed all men were equal in the sight of God, but that men in fact were not created equal. This was not even a race issue, he didnt believe that God created his children all the same.
Very interesting thought... ( I will leave it at that as to not create controversy)
Adams, who is less iconic than his counterparts, Jefferson, Madison, or Washington, was an amazing man who we are all indebted to for the freedom we now enjoy. It was in large measure, due to his persistence, hard work and sacrifice.
I am watching the HBO version of this book (directed by Tom Hanks) this weekend. I am so excited to watch it. I have been waiting for months so I could read the book first. I watch the trailer and it gets me so excited!!!
Thank you Mr. Adams, I feel such gratitude for your life and lifes work...liberty.
I have finally completed reading JOHN ADAMS by DAVID MCCULLOUGH.
What a fantastic book! I loved every second of it.
There were a so many moments and insights that brought out a range of emotions in me.
A funny story that made me laugh was about Benjamin Franklin and John Adams.Traveling to Staten Island for a meeting with the British Lord Howe (who would try to talk them out of seperating from Britian and resolve the looming war),they stayed overnight at an inn. The inn was full, so both men were made to share a room and a bed.Both men were rather fat, which as you can imagine made me laugh at loud at the thought of two fat dudes in a bed together.
So here they are, climbing into bed, when Franklin sees that due to Adams size, the only small window to the room will be blocked. Franklin freaked out stating that they would both suffocate.He reminded Adams about his belief in the benefits of fresh air, which was contrary to common thought at the time.. He demanded that Adams change him positions in the bed. He slept next to the open window and retold Adams all about his health theories, which he had in fact already published. Adams had already read the publication, but listened politely afraid that he would awake sick or croupy in the morning. He fell asleep during the lecture but awoke feeling refreshed and relieved.
I was moved at a story about Adams meeting with the King of England, post war. Adams, was appointed minister from the US to the Kings court. In his address to the king, Adams said: "I shall esteem myself the happiest of men if I can be instrumental in recommending my country more and more to your Majesty's royal benevolence, and of restoring and entire esteem, confidence , and affection or in better words, the old good nature and the old good humor between people who, though separated by an ocean and under different governments, have the same language, a similar religion, and kindred blood". They both were overcome with emotion. After all, the people (American and British), even though they were enemies in war and killed thousands of eachother, were still connected by blood & linegage. Can you imagine going to war with your kinsman? We have no idea what these people went through emotionally during the war both American and British. Both men spoke with quivering voices and much difficulty, holding back emotion as they now sat face to face as seperate countries. I can only imagine standing on the sidelines watching them. It fills my eyes with tears to think about it.
An issue that the book goes into that is fascinating, is the idea of equality.
Adams objected to the line in the Declaration that states that "all men are created equal". He didnt believe this and did not want it added. He believed all men were equal in the sight of God, but that men in fact were not created equal. This was not even a race issue, he didnt believe that God created his children all the same.
Very interesting thought... ( I will leave it at that as to not create controversy)
Adams, who is less iconic than his counterparts, Jefferson, Madison, or Washington, was an amazing man who we are all indebted to for the freedom we now enjoy. It was in large measure, due to his persistence, hard work and sacrifice.
I am watching the HBO version of this book (directed by Tom Hanks) this weekend. I am so excited to watch it. I have been waiting for months so I could read the book first. I watch the trailer and it gets me so excited!!!
Thank you Mr. Adams, I feel such gratitude for your life and lifes work...liberty.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
R U 4 REL?
***This will bore most of you, you may skip reading it. Just some thoughts I needed to blog***
Im from a family of "word people". My mother is a speech pathologist. My father is a English major (attorney, debater, orator, and philosopher). Words are thought highly meaningful and formidable in our home. I grew up in a home of expression and articulated speech. Much to my dismay, my rose colored glasses have been broken regarding the English language, especially today's vernacular in America. While our generation has made progress in nearly every arena, we have digressed in our vocabulary. Words have lost all meaning. We have resorted to replacing beautiful descriptive language with generalizations and slang. Speech shortcuts that remove all sentiment or impact.
What is going on with everyone talking like they are texting? Why is it that people dont speak when spoken to? One word answers are the status quo, and most people dont have a clue how to have a conversation that feels comfortable or flows? Its like we have been stupefied by technology.
My brother Noah, who is on a mission in Japan, recently told us about the Japanese people. He said that they have become a people of strange mannerisms, strained relationships, and communicative recluses when face to face with a live body. As he put it "technology has made them socially retarded. They can only express themselves behind a keyboard".
I want to revive this lost art of speech. Beginning in my own home, by using more vocabulary as my children get older. This is such a disappointing phenomena in this century. Worsening by the day with texting, email and computers.
I do say things to my husband like "Even after 7 years of marriage, I grow in love for you". But what I really want to say is:
"...and with an indescribable pleasure I have seen near a score of years roll over our Heads, with an affection heightened and improved by time"-
(This an excerpt of a letter written by Abigail Adams to her husband. I am nearly finished with a book on John Adams, which I shall be reviewing on my blog shortly.)
Honestly, do we really need people to revise the bible into todays speech. I mean lets get real here. I read through one of these so called "FOR TODAY, BIBLES". Everything had lost its meaning. The language had no meaning or symbolism. It was so sad to me.
I just need to figure out how to make a wide vocablulary something of importance. Random I know, but I figure there could be worse things I was hoping to bring back (I wont even beging this list).
Alas, I am but who I am...child of the 80's, an heir of technology, daughter of a Chamberlain.
-Eden
Im from a family of "word people". My mother is a speech pathologist. My father is a English major (attorney, debater, orator, and philosopher). Words are thought highly meaningful and formidable in our home. I grew up in a home of expression and articulated speech. Much to my dismay, my rose colored glasses have been broken regarding the English language, especially today's vernacular in America. While our generation has made progress in nearly every arena, we have digressed in our vocabulary. Words have lost all meaning. We have resorted to replacing beautiful descriptive language with generalizations and slang. Speech shortcuts that remove all sentiment or impact.
What is going on with everyone talking like they are texting? Why is it that people dont speak when spoken to? One word answers are the status quo, and most people dont have a clue how to have a conversation that feels comfortable or flows? Its like we have been stupefied by technology.
My brother Noah, who is on a mission in Japan, recently told us about the Japanese people. He said that they have become a people of strange mannerisms, strained relationships, and communicative recluses when face to face with a live body. As he put it "technology has made them socially retarded. They can only express themselves behind a keyboard".
I want to revive this lost art of speech. Beginning in my own home, by using more vocabulary as my children get older. This is such a disappointing phenomena in this century. Worsening by the day with texting, email and computers.
I do say things to my husband like "Even after 7 years of marriage, I grow in love for you". But what I really want to say is:
"...and with an indescribable pleasure I have seen near a score of years roll over our Heads, with an affection heightened and improved by time"-
(This an excerpt of a letter written by Abigail Adams to her husband. I am nearly finished with a book on John Adams, which I shall be reviewing on my blog shortly.)
Honestly, do we really need people to revise the bible into todays speech. I mean lets get real here. I read through one of these so called "FOR TODAY, BIBLES". Everything had lost its meaning. The language had no meaning or symbolism. It was so sad to me.
I just need to figure out how to make a wide vocablulary something of importance. Random I know, but I figure there could be worse things I was hoping to bring back (I wont even beging this list).
Alas, I am but who I am...child of the 80's, an heir of technology, daughter of a Chamberlain.
-Eden
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