Day Two

I sit here with alot on my mind. Today was a hot day but right now it's raining and I LOVE the smell of rain. One thing I loved about Arizona...the smell of the desert rain. So, what I've been thinking about a lot is Pres. Obama and his speech next Tuesday to grade schoolers. I think it would be fine if he went to motivate the children to have a passion for education, but it goes further than that. He wants the children to idolize him. If he's really interested in improving the education system by talking about the importance of education, why isn't he talking to high school students too? Afterall, they are the ones at the forefront of higher education. Oh yeah, that's right, grade school kids are still impressionable. Now, why is he asking the teachers to have the kids write down goals they can set that can help the president further his goals..and then be accountable to the government for them? Now don't you think that's going too far? There is definitely an underlying political agenda attached to this speech. Some parents are talking about not having their kids go to school that day. It's not only about whether or not they hear it, it's that he's trying to control another aspect of our lives. I will be the one to teach my children about what's right and wrong. It starts at home. There are so many versions of the truth these days, It's so important as parents that we are the ones to instill strong values, morals, and beliefs.

You can still respect the president but don't have to agree with his policies, choices or opinions. What if they don't want to do something that helps further the president's agenda? What then? They are probably too young to even question it, so instead, they will do as he says and be seen as the great president who makes all good decisions for this country. What are your thoughts? I'm sure I've ruffled somebody's feathers. But, if you'd like to comment in a respectful manner, I'm sure we could have an enlightened discussion.

Can I have your attention please...

Last Sunday Jace gave his first talk in church. I had been rehearsing with him for a couple days b4 it and we talked about the temple alot to get him prepared. I was ready to whisper in his ear what to say....he didn't need that. When they said it was his turn, he walked right up to the microphone and said "Because of the temple, I know my family can be together forever. The temple is a house of God." I was so proud! It's amazing to see him saying what we've been teaching for years. I guess he has no fear of speaking infront of people. hmm...I think I knew that...mr. walk up to any stranger and start a conversation. :)

First Day

Jace had his first day of preschool. He's actually been in a school setting for a while now. My dear friend, Maren let him go to preschool when he was not even 3 bc I was still working. Then, last year, he was in preschool for half a year bc of our move. Now, this will be his first full year of preschool!! Can't believe he's getting so big. I love that kid so much. Just tonight I was watching him brush his teeth and I got choked up. How come time goes so fast and these sweet babies grow up on us and become so independent. He rarely lets me hold his hand but he likes to snuggle at night still. Tonight, I was putting the boys to bed again. (without Daddy most nights bc school until 11 p.m.) I was rocking Camden, and Jace came over to sit with us. Camden leaned over and fell asleep on Jace's chest. Again, teary eyed. Camden ADORES Jace. He can do no wrong.

Day One

So today is my first official day of the blogging promise. I have to say, over the last couple days, I've had doubts. How come I said I would do this. I never have any time as it is. Maybe if I don't do it, no one will care and I'll be off the hook. But... I would know and that means more to me than anyone else. It's really not even about writing about certain topics, it's more about being able to just take 5 minutes out of my day to do something that has to do with me. Although my blogs revolve around my two boys, I will try to venture out.

Today, I took the boys swimming at our complex pool. We met a woman and her son, (Jace's age) there last week and are going with them again today. It's funny because usually when I force myself to get out and do something fun with the kids (even though it can be hassle getting there), the event is well worth it and I usually get more out of it than expected. Like this last time, a new friend....for me and for Jace. Sure, it's easy to just sit inside and play or just relax (what's that?), but that doesn't stretch you. I have found everyone is happier when we do something out of the house. If you know anything about me, it's that I'm a people person. I enjoy getting out, inviting people over, meeting new friends and starting conversations. Whether it's going to the grocery store or the park, going out is good for everyone. :)

Acquarium

WE took Jace to the Long Beach Acquarium. Ali and Ryan watched Camden at their house so we wouldn't have to hurry through in case he wasn't doing great. Jace loved seeing the seals, the Finding Nemo fish tank, the sharks and the water fountain (go figure):) We had a blast! He bought Camden a little stuffed animal turtle just like his and said they were brothers. How cute.

inspiration come

I just got back from the movie, Julie and Julia with my friend, Jamie. I was inspired by Julie's drive to do something that stretched her to be a better person. I loved how Julia was always so positive. I assume she was truly like that....laughing or joking about when she could be angry, frustrated or sad. More than anything, it reminded me how nice it is to just write. just write. I used to do that a lot more often. In fact, I really miss it. Everything just comes out real when I write. no inhibitions, no judgement. I can just be me.

So, in lieu of this true story, I've been inspired to start writing again. Starting September 1st, I will blog everyday and end November 1st. So, two months of blogging everyday. Even if no one is reading it, I just want to start writing again...about anything. I've been non existent from the blogging world for a while. I was too busy having fun this summer. I guess blogs can be seen as a way to connect, an outlet, a brag platform, and for me, it's a starting point again to find the joy in writing.

I can remember in high school, we would have our 15 minute journal writing and the teacher would just write a topic on the board and we had to write about it. I'm going to do that. Each day, a new topic. If you have any suggested topics, please feel free to suggest. I'll decide what to write about but it will help me just start. Let the journey begin!!!

Before it starts, I'll have some posts about our summer fun. I better hurry though I only have a couple days. Before I forget, Jace's first day of preschool - he learned about coconut trees. :)

Trucking in T.O.

Our second week in Thousand Oaks, we went to a city event called TOUCH - A - TRUCK. It was a 4-year old boy's 7th heaven!!! It was free and they let all the kids get in firetrucks, police trucks, delivery trucks, cement mixers, street washers, ambulances, army tanks, bulldozers, tractors....you get the idea! They had about 4 different firetrucks and we had to go in everyone. Jace got to honk horns and push buttons. He LOVED every moment. Camden was there too....and was a perfect baby just happy in his stroller enjoying the loud noisy trucks all morning. He even fell asleep eventually. We wanted to go in the helicopter but the line was soooo long! We settled for watching it take off and blow dust all over us. :) It was a great family outing! Jace wanted to stay all day...oh wait, we did!!!