Some boys have all the fun. . .

Story behind this picture:
We were visiting Grandma over spring break, and Jackson had this dress on over his head, but that's as far as he'd gotten; so, basically it was draped over his shoulders.  He was carrying a suitcase when he announced to me, "Mom, I'm going to Las Vegas."

I then did what only a good mom would do and helped him put on the dress, took this picture, and then took a video of him retelling his plans.

Jackson only seems to go through his dress-up phases when he's visiting his cousins. . .hmm. . . I wonder why that could be. . .  (wink, wink)



P.S.  The Vegas reference is much less funny when you know that's where his Daddy was for a conference, and we were going to meet him there in a few days after this "incident."

Swing Away

 Here's a hint of why we seem to be missing from the bloggy world:  

Yep, Grandma K. finally got a porch swing, which means we're not home.  Jackson is in heaven at Grandma's and playing with cousins.  When I get a chance, I'll let you know more of what is going on here.

Time Machine

Let's go back to 1990 shall we?  It was an era of Tiny Toons,  scrunchies, alternating sock colors, mini-skirts, dyed hair, stir-up pants, and "Achy Breaky Heart."  Well, at that point, I was still into the TMNT club I made with my friends, building forts, playing with my Barbies, and just being a kid.  And. . . I looked like this:

Oh, and did I mention that I did the St. Jude Bike-A-Thon that year that my mom helped with?  Obviously I earned a shirt out of it.   This is a picture of my cute "baby" brother as we're sitting in my aunt's and uncle's luxurious RV watching a movie.  Okay, it was luxurious to us -- I mean you could make at least three beds in there - one out of the table- , and there was a VCR!  It didn't get any better than that!

Now look behind me on the right hand side of the picture in the background.  You see those two vans?  Those are parked in front of my house, which is hard to see because of the trees.  If you click on the picture, you might just be able to see part of it.  My aunt and uncle were "staying" at my grandma's house just around the block.

Anyway, my aunt sent me this picture in the mail this week, and it was a pleasant surprise.  I love thinking back to my childhood.  Good times.

Panaca Recap:What it Looks Like

This is what it looks like when you are entertaining your six year old in Subway while Daddy and Grandma are getting food (meeting at the switch point -- there is no Subway in Panaca).

Yup, we took pictures with my camera, but Jackson got the best shots of all.

This one shows my best qualities, don't you think?!

The Parking Lot:

The picture of meat on the wall. . . mmmm. . .

This is what downtown Panaca looks like and has for 30 years, with minor changes (you'd only know them if you've been around there that long).

This is what it looks like when you ride in Grandma's car to the Panaca Spring to go swimming together with your cousins and aunts and uncles.

 (Jackson and his cousin sharing a seat on the way to the ol' swimming hole. Riding in Grandma's car is the best!)

This is what it looks like when everyone is getting ready to get in to the Spring.  It's a warm spring. Yes, you have to brave the fish, algae, and muddy bottom, but in the morning it is crystal clear and warm and worth it all!  Again, enjoy the AMAZING PICTURES I got (sarcasm. . .).  Honestly, though, the people in these pictures are some of the best!

This is what it looks like when everyone is getting out of the Spring. . .

This is what it looks like when you're playing "War" with your cousin who is 10 days older than you!

This is what it looks like driving back to Panaca from the cousins' houses in Caliente. (Shh, don't tell anyone I took the picture while driving!)

This is what it looks like when you fall asleep in the middle of getting your pajamas on because you're EXHAUSTED from having too much fun with your grandma and cousins.

Yeah. . .I didn't take great pictures, but we had a blast!  It was nice to have a break from chores, making dinner, and paying bills (or at least thinking about them). . .

Jackson's Comedy Hour

Last night while my brother (Adam) and his family came up to my parents' to visit, Jackson started his Knock-Knock jokes routine. We were all rolling with laughter because he's such a Ham. He added a new one I'd never heard, and one I'll probably never hear again!

Jackson: Knock-Knock
Adam: Who's there?
Jackson: Astronaut groupy*. . .
Adam (confused): Astronaut groupy who?
Jackson: Astronaut groupy going to eat you! (Then Jackson proceeded to kiss Adam's knee, maybe he was "eating" it.)

The best we can guess is that he said "groupy." No, he doesn't know what that is, but apparently an astronaut groupy is a cannibal. . .good to know.

Cathedral Gorge: April 8, 2010

After I tell someone where I grew up, the population of my hometown, and how many students were in my graduating class, I always get the classic question: "What is there to do there?"

Well, one of my all-time favorite places is Cathedral Gorge State Park. There are some fun, easy trails to hike; caves to explore; and rocks to climb.

Looking from Miller's Point down to the trail. That's Jackson and I on the bridge.

Don't worry, he's not going to jump, and it's not that dangerous. He just makes it look that way.

I felt like being a goof.We even trusted Jackson enough with our expensive camera to take a picture of Matt and I.

There are some great scenic/nature pictures that Matt took, and I think I'll post them soon.

MIA in the blog world and the "Bombest" teacher

Apparently going out of town to visit my parents means that I boycott the blogging world. I mean, that's what's happening it seems. Of course, I seem to be keeping up with many of my friends' blogs, but I neglect my own.

Perhaps I will add more about my trip later, but I should say the reason why I'm here in the first place. Tomorrow is my dad's last day as a teacher. He retires from about 35 years of teaching. I can honestly say that my dad is the epitome of good teaching. Mr. K. has never won a national award, nor received much recognition; he has, however, influenced the lives of many, many students, athletes, parents, and colleagues. (I'm starting to sound like I could be that lady on Mr. Holland's Opus.)

Anyway. . . the high school decided to honor my dad this year by dedicating the year book to him. He has not taught full-time in the high school since 1991 (he's taught physics and chemistry for almost the last 10 years for one or two periods a day) when he switched to teaching middle school science. My family found out about the dedication plan near the beginning of the school year, and we (and the entire county) kept it a secret the entire time. The middle school principal even had to lie to my dad to get him to go to the yearbook assembly. My dad had no idea; and he was even more confused when he saw much of his family sitting on the front row.

I told my dad that I was coming to visit in the middle of the week because Jackson finished school, and I wanted to be there for the holiday weekend. In fact, I was trying to make it in time for the assembly on Thursday morning. Four out of seven children were there with their families to support my dad. It was awesome. My dad was choked up while the high school principal read the dedication in the yearbook; and then he delivered a great impromptu speech. He told the kids, "Don't doubt. Each one of you has the ability to excel if you dig deep and find it. I love each and every one of you." I don't doubt they know he meant it.

Today he brought home a poster board card from the middle school students. Almost every note said, "Love" in it. (My favorite line was "Your the bombest teacher.") You know a teacher is excellent when middle school and high school students tell him that they love him. That means that he has proved to them that he loves them.

I tell you this because if you know my dad, you do not think "love" when you first meet him. He was a coach for many years, and he is a straightforward person who can seem harsh at times. You always knew where my dad stood, but he always wanted the best for all of his "kids." (He told me today about a student that failed his class that he felt genuinely sorry for her because of the situation. Even she came up to my dad today, hugged him tightly, and told him that she loved him.)

Even more, he has no regrets. When my oldest brother asked him if he had ever looked back and wondered if the career he had chosen was the right one or if he should change it, my dad's response was, "Never. When you love what you do, there is no regret." I think my dad is leaving his profession feeling fulfilled as a teacher. He has loved his career as a teacher, mentor, and coach; and this week he has felt an outpouring of love. He deserves it.

I love you, Dad!

One more thing my dad mentioned is that the greatest reward a teacher can receive is to hear the words "thank you" from a former student, especially years later.

So, my request to you is to think of a teacher that influenced your life for good and send a Thank You note to him or her. That teacher needs to hear those words.

In the News

My high school was in the news recently, and I think it's awesome. If you don't know Panaca, then click the link below and read a little about my Alma Mater.

http://www.kvbc.com/Global/story.asp?S=9988929

Coach Phillips and my dad coached together for many, many years. Mrs. McHenry was one of my English teachers. And yes, a graduating class of 75 students is large. My class was about 45.

Blackmail

Every parent needs some picture to use for blackmail when her child is a teenager. Well, a few weeks ago, we were visiting my family, and Jackson finally produced the perfect opportunity:





Yes, he asked to put on the pink dress/skirt/tutu. His cousin has loved playing "dress-up" for a long time now, and finally, Jackson found joy in that opportunity, and he seized it. He even wanted to bring the pink dress home with him. Daddy was so proud. . .

or not.

Home Again

So, Jackson and Mommy made it back home yesterday, thanks to Aunt Amy. I really enjoyed being with my family for 2 weeks. At first I thought it was going to be a really long stay, but then it seemed to fly by. Of course, Matt would disagree with me. It was really hard on him coming home to an empty house. I don't blame him for being so excited to see us yesterday. I just wanted to put some more pictures up of our stay. My other sister-in-law, Amy, drove down with her kids (my brother had to keep working) to visit. Jackson got to see so many cousins during this trip. I know he had fun because he asked to see the cousins every day while we were there.

Here are the rest of the highlights from our trip. Sorry that there aren't any pictures of me, I was the photographer the entire time; and sorry that there are so many pictures.

My mom bought this life jacket for Jackson, and by the time we left, we loved going everyday to swim. Matt and I are excited to take him to a pool here now so Matt can see how Jackson's fear of water has subsided substantially.

Taylor, Jackson, Madi, and Emma all drying off from swimming in the Spring
Two things grandma is known for, Schwan's ice cream treats and a toy room full of good stuff.
After the kids "played" down there:
The kids also love grandma's wagon. Emma loved pulling Jackson and Madi around in it.
Jackson just had to have a turn after watching Emma. He couldn't go quite as fast, though.
Jackson loved Grandma's "Marble Works" set. I really want to get him one for Christmas now.
Remember last time I visited home, I blogged about the stickers/puncture vines? Well, Jackson went wandering off (okay, just in the field next door), but he was wearing his Crocs, and they collected the stickers. He stood screaming until my aunt fetched him. Here you can see his dirty, tear-streaked face. My aunt asked, "Are you raising a homeless child." (in jest, of course) You can see the weeds behind Jackson next to the fence post -- that's where he stood screaming.

Finally, Jackson had a ball with his cousin Aaron the last day we were there. Aaron loved playing with CDs just like Jackson, and they turned on the music and danced. Yes, my nephew is wearing a leotard -- he loves "dress-up" clothes. He's the funniest kid, and so cute!
Right now I'm missing swimming in the Spring in the early morning for exercise, visiting with my mom, eating ice cream treats, and not worrying about bills and housework!!

Panaca's Tradition

Well, one thing that I love about Panaca are the traditions. As was stated in a talk in our church meeting this morning, the reason these small towns and their traditions stay alive is that the people keep them going. Panaca's biggest tradition is the 24th of July celebration. Panaca was actually settled by Mormon pioneers in 1864. Panaca at that time was considered a part of Utah until the borders were defined; and the small town is actually 20 miles within the Nevada border. Since Panaca is not officially in Utah, the people here do not get the 24th off as a holiday as they do in Utah. Thus, celebrations are kept for the Saturday nearest the 24th. This year, we had the celebrations yesterday, the 26th.

The day always starts off with a dynamite wake-up. They set off dynamite around the borders of the town to remind us of how the pioneers were awakened. This used to happen at the unmerciful hour of 5:00 a.m. It now happens at 6:00 a.m. At 6:30, the bell on top of the old, original church meetinghouse is rung "calling" the town to the church for a flag-raising and breakfast. Breakfast is always my favorite. (It does cost as the celebration is used for the local Boy Scouts annual fundraiser to raise money for the two troops here in town.) Following breakfast are a series of races. They always begin with the very youngest and go in age groups. The finish line is pushed back as the ages get older. They do foot races, potato sack races, and three-legged races. The winners usually get some money (quarters and such). The kids love it.

In the morning, someone usually hosts a 3-on-3 basketball tournament with brackets for different age groups and genders. We went to the championship game so Jackson could watch some b-ball. He loves the sport -- definitely takes after Grandpa.

At 4 p.m., there is always a parade just before the big dinner that is served at the church at 5 p.m. Granted, you have to use your imagination what a Pioneer Day parade looks like in a small town of 800 people and their families that come to visit. This year was actually impressive for a Panaca parade. I enjoyed it. The one thing you can count on, though, is candy. I was actually VERY surprised at how much candy was thrown this year. In June we went to the parade back home, and Jackson only got a handful of candy. Here's the loot from yesterday's parade:

As you can see, there's actually some good stuff in there.

Remembering When

I remember a few years ago I kept wondering why my mom would ever save our old toys. I mean, some of them went through all 7 of us kids. I couldn't believe she saved my Barbies and all of their accessories after all of the abuse some of them went through. Well, while we've been here, I've been privileged to watch Jackson play with some of my favorite childhood toys, and I'm so glad that my mom kept all of our toys. I sat with him and showed him how they work. Here's a picture of him playing with an oldie but goodie: The Little People Sesame Street Clubhouse.

Yes, that's Grover in the spinning yellow thing on top. They just don't make Little People the same anymore. My mom still owns the Children's Hospital, the Happy Houseboat, the Schoolhouse, and a Treehouse all for the Little People. Sadly, a few years ago, my favorite, the Little People Garage, met its end.

Cousins

Okay, so I've lost track of the whole "days" idea. I just couldn't keep up with it anymore, but it was a good thought anyway. Last Thursday, my mom took Jackson for a while so I could go play volleyball with my sister-in-law and some of her friends. My mom returned from running errands and had three of Jackson's cousins to play for a while. For part of the time, they played in the pools outside and ran through the sprinklers. They're such cute, fun kids; and Jackson had a blast with them.




Again, I apologize for the mediocre pictures. I can't wait to have access to our nice camera. Four more days, and we're back with Daddy - yea!!

Day 5: The Sound of Armpit Music

Today Jackson and I spent most of the day with my sister-in-law and her kids. In the afternoon, we decided to go swimming at the city pool. While waiting to get in the cars, the kids found their own entertainment. Richie (who is 6) started making armpit sounds, and Jackson tried to follow his lead. Unfortunately Jackson couldn't "master it yet" as Richie's friend pointed out. Rachel, who is exactly 10 days older than Jackson, decided to give him some pointers such as cupping his hand. She actually took his hand in hers and showed him how to do it. Then Rachel demonstrated to Jackson just how to flap his arm. Instead of saying my initial thoughts of "Ew, gross, don't teach him that," I grabbed my camera and snapped a shot.

Sorry the picture is so dark, I'm really missing our very nice camera. At least Matt has gotten some great ones with it.

Days 3 & 4

Day 3
I spent a couple of hours in the morning swimming laps at the spring. It was so refreshing, and yet I was nice and tired later on in the day. In the afternoon we spent the day at my oldest brother's house in Caliente. We rode my other brother's 4-wheeler (we miss Adam as he's in Spain visiting relatives); played Blongo Ball and Bocce Ball; the kids played in the pools; and we visited and ate pizza and way too many snacks and treats. I sure love my family!

Will and Ken playing Blongo Ball

Pool Fun

Yes, I really rode it up the side of the mountain with my Dad and Jackson

Debbie, Chandler, Aimee, and Kenneth playing Bocce with Jillyn watching in the background.

My Aunt Bong Me is wonderful to play with the kids. Here they are chanting "Deadman, Dead man, come alive. You will rise when I say number 5."

Day 4

Today is Sunday, so we're relaxing and trying to stay cool in the very hot, dry weather. There's definitely a lack of cooling off at night here in this dessert.

Day 1: Grandma's House

July seems to be the month of family. In the beginning we enjoyed having Matt's family visit us from Virginia. Now, Jackson and I (LeMira) are visiting LeMira's family in Nevada for a couple of weeks. My brother is visiting that I haven't seen in a year, and we're so excited to see them again. For the next week or so, I'll be blogging about our stay here.

Payton just turned one, and he's such a doll. Yesterday for dinner we had homemade spaghetti and meatballs (my mom makes the best), and Payton preferred to play with the food rather than eat it at first.
Jackson enjoyed talking to himself for a while in a mirror he found. My mom said, "I keep putting that back and he finds it again!" Who doesn't love looking at themselves?
Jada just had to show Jackson her scratch on her foot. Jackson asked, "Can I touch it?" "Sure," replied Jada.
"Touch it again," said Jada. What boy doesn't love a good wound?!