Holiday update--just my meandering thoughts!

Here it is January 15th and I haven't wrote for a while. I have been busy--but actually I am just a slacker.

Christmas was wonderful. No I didn't finish all 4 quilts, so I still have 1 1/2 to go! But hey, it was a nice attempt. My kids didn't seem to mind that we cut back a little this year. Zadie was the cutest. Every time she opened a package she would say "That is just what I wanted!" We did some sledding, lots of eating and just spending time as a family. Nick had many days off (from the 23rd to the beginning of the year) so it was nice to just be! My favorite Christmas memory was on Christmas Eve when our kids dressed up and reinacted THE Christmas Story...so fun, Karee was the angel, Zadie was Mary and Cole was Joseph. He also doubled as a shepherd. Nick, Porter and I showed up as the 3 wisemen. If I can find my camera I just might post a picture--I think it is LOST! Yeiks! I might just have to go buy a new one!

Nick and I had our 13th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY! Isn't that amazing that Nick has put up with me for that long? He is a wonderful guy. I am grateful for how hard working and down to earth he is. He loves the Lord and serves Him with all his heart and he loves me and the kids...what more could a woman ask for? Oh, he loves his motorcycles too--but hey, every guys got to have a hobby, right? He gave me a new video camera! I am excited but still need to take some time to figure it all out.

Karee and Zadie had a dance recital (on Dec. 17th) and if I can find a picture of them I will post it here later. They both did awesome! It amazed me at how grown up my Karee is. I had tears welling up in my eyes...note, I didn't cry, but it was such a neat moment. She is still so petite--but wow, she did great. Zadie was cute too and made us laugh. It was fun to watch them perform. Nick captured it all on video--can't wait to show the Grandparents!

We went to Salt Lake to be with the Madsen Family for our annual NEW YEAR'S celebration...soooo much fun. David & Michelle and their kids are great. IT was a great time. (Thanks Madsen Family!!) Our kids are already looking forward to East Canyon with them in February. It is so fun to have some friends that share our values and that we LOVE just like Family.

Christmas Story time!

Hey, one tradition that we do with our kids is to read a different story book each night up until Christmas. Then on the 24th we read "The Night Before Christmas" and last but not least is the ACTUAL Christmas story in the bible. We got off to a slow start this year and we are already behind; so last night we read 3 books. It about killed Porter--who wanted to go check out the football scores--but it is still fun for most of them. I used to wrap up the books and put numbers on them--until the books were almost torn into--so now I just set them in a big pile under the Christmas tree...it is still just as fun. The kids have their favorites, and I get to add one or two new books each year. I had board books that were short when they were little--but as they have gotten bigger I have had to swap some of them out. It is a fun tradition--one I suggest every family start. Happy reading!

Cole's favorite:"Mooseltoe"
Karee's favorite: "Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree"
Zadie's favorite: "The Littlest Angel"
Andrea's favorite: "The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree" (makes me cry every time)
Porter's favorite: anything short
Nick's favorite: The Christmas story in the bible; not shocking!

We have many good one's--but if any of you have a favorite, please let me know so that we can try it out!

My Project--continued!

Okay, this weekend I finished Porter's quilt. I was unable to keep it a secret--so he has seen it...but I am happy to report that one rag quilt is done, now just 3 more to go before Christmas! I am showing a picture of the underside of the quilt because I still have to wash and dry it before the quilt will actually rag. Let me tell you, if any of you ever make a twin size rag quilt or larger--you must invest in spring action loaded rag scissors! They are wonderful. Worth every penny.

I was a little afraid of one of the prints in the quilt the yellowish one; I was unsure if it actually blended into the grays and blues of the overall quilt, but those are Porter's favorite squares--so I guess if he is happy then so am I! It ended up being 60x90 and looks great on his bed. We will make some matching curtains for his room--but that will have to be after Christmas!

Now just 3 more to cut and sew!

Piano Recital

My three older kids played in their annual Christmas recital at the Piano Gallery in Orem. It was held on Saturday night, Karee's birthday. Karee was a good sport when Sister Sullivan (Kathy) the piano teacher played a rockin' rendition of Happy Birthday to her and had the whole audience sing to her. I was on my own, as Nick was a little under the weather--but it was a good time and we video taped it for daddy and the grandparents who weren't able to make it.

Porter was a little nervous. He is still not in love with the fact that I "make" him take piano. But, he is actually getting quite good and is playing Hymns out of the hymnal now. Karee is a natural and doesn't ever see to get nervous or crack under pressure. I think she really loves to play the piano and just loves music in general. Cole is also doing well. He sometimes throws a fit, but sometimes he can't pass the piano by with out pounding a Christmas song or 10 little Indians. He did well also. It is neat to see my kids growing in their skills and talents. Maybe someday all that forcing and coercing them to practice will pay off!

Happy Birthday Karee!

Karee had her birthday this past Saturday. It is hard to believe that she is 10 already. Karee is a sweet and thoughtful girl. She is quite a big help to me and a whole lot of fun. She love to craft, help with treats and do anything creative. She has been collecting some small nativity sets for the past few years and was able to add one more to her collection this year. She wanted "4 layer" for her birthday cake, which is technically just a dessert--but lots of chocolate, so who cares right? I had forgot to buy the #10 candle so she got the number 8 and two ones. Lame I know, but we had so much going on; and Karee was a great sport about it! She is a great sport about many things. She even missed a family Christmas Party the night of her birthday (Dad was a little under

An evening with Janice Kapp Perry

On Tuesday night Karee and I attended a guest lecture at Reagan Academy (the charter school our kids go to) where Janice Kapp Perry came and spoke. It was quite a thrill to listen to her speak, sing and share the Spirit with us. I have been a big fan for years, and I love to play and listen to her music. We had her autograph our "Sing a Song of Christmas" cantata that she wrote for the Utah Valley Children's chior. I don't know if any of you remember, but Karee sang in that chior and all the different parts were written by Sister Perry. We sing the songs on the CD every Christmas!

Anyhow, she and her husband Doug were there and told how music has blessed their lives. She shared many experiences from her life. We loved hearing about their mission to Santiago Chile. They have been back for a few years and are serving in a Spanish branch in Provo. It was truly uplifting. I mean--here we were in a school, and she had us all singing a medely of primary songs with her! She truly has a gift and talent.

Sister Perry talked about having a dream and working towards that dream. She shared with us how she feared singing in public, public speaking and the actual story aobut how she became a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Chior. One of the most amazing stories that touched my heart was one about how she and her husband were in a head on collision in Provo Canyon several years ago. She had sever injuries and pain in her back and couldn't even lie flat when they took her in the ambulance. When she arrived at the hospital they told her that they would have to do an x-ray where she would have to lie flat for 1/2 hour. She was terrified, and had never in her life experienced that much pain. That was when she prayed and as they did the x-ray the words to her song "A Child's Prayer" came into her mind..."Pray he is there; Speak, he is listening. You are his child; His love now surrounds you." She told us that with those words she was able to get through that difficult time.

It was a very neat experience and I just had to share!

My new project!

About a month ago I decide to make each of the kids a quilt for Christmas! I know, nothing like last minute ambition. So, here I go. I don't know that I will finish all 4 before Christmas...but I am going to make a good effort. Porters' is a rag quilt and it is laid out in squares all over my sewing room floor. I hope to be done with his before this weekend. Wish me luck!

Here is a picture of all the batting squares. I'll post an after picture when I am done. Not easy to keep it a secret--but he hasn't seen it yet!

Family Night with the FLASH!

Okay, so Monday night we went to watch a UTAH FLASH game for family home evening. It was loud, crazy and fun. A bit long for Zadie and Cole--but neat to see a semi-pro team play. Nick said it was a development league, whatever. The kids brought the tickets home from school last week when they had an assembly and met some of the players. Porter begged us to take the family. It is right up his alley. He is soooo into sports! The game was against Albuquerque and went into overtime. They lost by two in the last few seconds of the game. Drat! Maybe next time!

Cole left a really disappointed that he didn't get a free t-shirt or ball (you know, how they shoot those out into the crowd) I couldn't believe his attitude. Nick tried to explain how the numbers just weren't in his favor--but he was disappointed nonetheless. Zadie liked the FOX their mascot, and loved to literally "hang" around on the handrail in the middle of the isle. Karee loved to scream with out worrying about hurting any one's ears ('cause we were all screaming) and Nick enjoyed how closely paired the two teams were. It was exciting. I forgot my camera again--always happens...but tried to catch a few with the cell phone. So I will see if any are descent enough to add here.

Oh, Christmas Tree!

We went the day before thanksgiving up to Heber to cut down our family Christmas tree. I stood in line to buy a permit for $10 the first weekend in November and then we go chop it down the day after Thanksgiving. But, this year we heard that the weather was going to be bad--so we went up a little early. Here are some pictures of our family having a great time up in the Utah mountains. It was actually a ton of fun. Well, all but the ride home (kids were kind of tired and cranky). I think the tree ended up being about 12-13 ft. tall. It was the easiest year yet with the kids...tromping around in the snow. Zadie is 4 now and walked all by herself. Cole led us out blazing the trails and Porter even brought a snow board to try and have a little fun. There wasn't that much snow--and it was actually quite warm. GOOD TIMES!

Thanksgiving at Moms

Well, I haven't updated my blog in a while. Last week was Thanksgiving and we went out to Willard to my mom and dad's place. I forgot my camera--so I have no pictures. But it was a good time. I made the rolls and a veggie platter. It was a smaller group than normal as Heidi and Gary and their boys weren't there. As well as Andy and Marnie and their kids. Camille and Phil are in Seattle, so we will see them over Christmas. We missed you all. But the rest of us had a good time and tons to eat. I got to talk a lot more with my sweet sister in law Alicia (Matt's wife) she is a wonderful lady. We also played a bunch of games. Good times. God has truly blessed me with much. My family too! Let us give thanks in all things!

Forgivness

Forgiveness

Forgive and forget even if you are upset.
Feeling bad for what you do?
You would want to be forgiven too.

The note at the bottom of the poem:
Forgiveness is an important thing. If there was no such thing as forgiveness no one would ever be able to be happy.

by: Karee Christensen (4th grade, age 9)

Primary Program

Today was our ward's Primary program. I am happy to report that it went well. We had a practice on Saturday and I went over to the church with all of the kids. It was the 1st time in a long time that Nick had a few hours all to himself.

I was more nervous than all the kids, because my part in the program was to be the pianist. Up until this program I have never really accompanied anyone while singing in public, least of all sacrament meeting! But the Lord blessed me, and bar only a few small mistakes (which Nick assured me were hardly detectable) it went well.

Zadie's part: "Because He is my Heavenly Father" (her response when asked "Why are you glad that you are a child of God?")

Cole's part: "A family can be together forever by being sealed in the temple." (his response when asked "How can a family be together forever?")

Porter's part: "And if it so be that ye should bring. Save it be one soul unto me, How great shall be your joy."

Karee's part: a whole talk on Being baptised that she gave earlier in the year and then the Primary president asked her if she would share it as part of our program. She did a great job as well!

It was beautiful to hear all their little voices and the Spirit as they shared simple truths about the gospel. I felt tears well up when the kids sang a special number where the 1st verse was "I love to see the temple" followed by the chorus of "Families can be together forever" then back to the 2nd verse of "I love to see the temple" and then a little girl named Jocelyn sang the very last part of the song all by herself--"A family is forever". It just touched my heart. She was only 5 or 6 years old. The song was arranged well and once delivered it truly bore testimony to all listening of the eternal nature of families.

Well, I don't have pictures to post today. But it was a neat day! I have grown in this calling like no other--it helps that I love to play the piano. I may not be confident, but I am learning and growing!

Priesthood Preview

Last Sunday Porter had his Priesthood preview. It is hard to believe that our oldest is soon to be 12 years old! It was a very neat meeting. Nick and I both got to go, and the talks were wonderful. It gave Porter some idea of what to expect. He is growing up so fast!

Oh, last week a lady from the city called and wanted to know how tall Porter was...this info was for basketball season that will start next month. I was not sure, so I had to measure him while I was talking to her...it turns out that Porter is about 5'1". In just a few more inches he'll have me beat, and he's only 11! I know you are all thinking of how short I am--not my fault, it was my parents!

Cole's Baptism & 8th Birthday

Cole Jaydan was baptized three days after his 8th birthday. He was so excited. I can hardly believe that he is so big. We were worried that Nick might not be able to hold his arm to the square (because of his previous shoulder pain) but the doctor passed him with flying colors.

It was a HUGE day for baptisms in our Stake, so thanks to all who came for being patient. I had the joy, no, the honor of playing the piano at his baptism. I thought it would be fun--that is until I went into our stake chapel and saw so many people there. When I agreed I thought it was going to be just a small group. I ended up playing the piano for almost a full hour because our ward's turn at the font was last. There were 4 kids in our ward getting baptized,and about 11 in all from the stake!

Cole was a little nervous. But he did great. It was so neat to watch him make his first covenant with our Heavenly Father. How wonderful it was to have faithful men (his dad, grandpa, uncles and friends) put their hands on his head and bless him with the greatest gift--that of the Holy Ghost. Thanks so much to all of you for coming and sharing this time with our family.

We had a shin dig at our place after the baptism. I had to tease Nick just a little because we had a bar-b-q and he had no propane (after telling me the week before that he would make sure to check it) oh, well. It was all good times. Michelle and I decorated the birthday cake while waiting for the hamburgers and hot dogs to be cooked. Do you love our dinosaurs and volcano? Nothing to fancy--but not bad for spur of the moment!

I had a little one on one time with Cole that morning right before all the festivities started. I was able to give him the "Baptism Box" that Grandma and Grandpa Christensen left for him to open. It was a great time to read with him about all the symbols of baptism and what we are promising God and what he promises us. We missed Grandma and Grandpa C. but felt their love through this special tradition. Thanks! Cole thought it was very neat!

More fun pictures from the party!

Here are just a few more pictures from Cole's party!

My favorite is Uncle Andy and Aunt Marnie with baby Alieanna all catching some zzzzz's on the couch! Do they look worn out or what?

Happy Halloween

Okay, I have been a bit lazy and haven't gotten around to posting these pictures. I know it was a while ago--but we are all still getting over our Halloween sugar rush. Here are a few pictures. Zadie was a fairy princess complete with sparkles on her face. Karee was a witch (I hope you can see the tights--they really made her outfit!) and Porter was "Bling, bling boy" whatever that means-- could be a white rapper? Cole went as none other than the Grim Reaper. Our boys always seem to prefer the creepy side of Halloween. Go figure!

We also carved pumpkins for our FHE activity. Zadie wanted to sing "Happy Birthday" to the pumpkins after we put the candles inside. We found that pretty funny.

I helped out at Porter's sixth grade party, and so I just had to dress up too! I went as a butterfly. I posted a picture of Mrs. Jenni, Porter's teacher. I thought that her costume was great. She was the "Good Witch" from the Wizard of Oz.

Trick or Treating was also fun. Zadie and Porter lasted the longest. Nick handed out the candy at home with Karee. Cole lasted about two streets and Zadie wore me and Porter right out. I guess it always helps if you get pushed in a stroller. Maybe next year I'll make her walk! I couldn't believe her stamina!

Cole's 8th B-day PARTY!

Well, on Friday we had Cole's 8th birthday party. His birthday isn't until the day before Halloween--but next week will be busy, so we did it a little early. He decided to take his friends to "Jumping Jack's" and then come home for cake and ice cream. He had a blast! He loves dinosaurs so we did dino cupcakes, the funnest part was when Zadie smashed the cookies for the "dirt". She felt so big and was sure that Cole would be excited when he came home from school and saw 'em. The plates and napkins as well as treat bags were all in dinosaurs too. He made sure I knew that next week I would have to make him a cake for the family party as well...because he thinks mom can do anything and everything.

Here are few pictures of the kids having a good time at the party!

Porter's Halloween Concert

Okay, this isn't the best picture (it was so DARK, and I am not the best with the camera anyhow) but I thought I would put up a picture of Porter's 6th grade Halloween concert. Last Thursday his choir sang and the orchestra and band performed as well. The kids all had a blast dressing up. Porter went as a retired football player (he's in crutches) and Yanik his buddy, wore an afro and went as a "Bling-age Man" as Porter calls him. Lots of bling-age; a gold tooth, gold chain and rings, lots of gold rings.

The boys both were forced to take choir by their moms because of thier lack of practicing when they were in the 5th grade band. They both insisted that they mouthed all the words! 6th grade Boys, ya gotta love 'em!

RAD KIDS graduation

Wednesday night was Cole's RAD kids graduation. It is a "personal enpowerment saftey education program" that they came and did at his school. It is a neat program where officers and trained teachers talk to kids about stranger danger, scary situations and some physical skills that kids can learn and use. They have been learning things weekly for almost two months.

Cole was excited to go--but we were about 10 min. late and so he threw a fit before he finally decided to go out and join the kids. I swear sometimes he is more emotional than my girls. I am glad he finally did. He was confronted by a stranger, attacked by the man in the red suit (a police officer) who actually grabbed him and picked him up, and by "Bob" a dummy that the kids were able to punch and kick. A neat program that might help kids stay safe in this ever changing world.

Karee on the mend.

This month we have been hit pretty hard by illness. Between Zadie's pnemonia and Nick's shoulder I thought we were done. Nope, Karee ended up with the stomach flu and a UTI. Not fun for mom or daughter. I am glad to report that all seems to be well at the Christensen household--at least for now. We are glad that Karee is feeling better and back to school and life as she knows it. Thanks to our sweet neighbor Randy who helped Nick give her a blessing and the after hours clinic here in town she is much better.

Zadie also had a follow up visit and the pnemonia is all gone. She recieved a flu shot and didn't even cry. She ran into the house and couldn't wait to tell daddy how brave she was! She now has two new stickers: "I got an x-ray" and a new one that says "I got a flu shot today". Let's hope this is it for a while!