Moss--we'll grow on ya!

What's more American than . . . July in Christmas?

2011-12-13T12:45:00.000-08:00

Hee, hee.
I always do a fun "Christmas in July", so why not a "4th of July" for all of you in the Christmas season?

Okay, the truth is that we got this picture taken for Halloween and I just never got around to posting it.

Our family theme this year was "What's more American than . . ."

In case you can't tell from our very classy costumes:

David is "Uncle Sam"

I am The Statue of Liberty

Eli is a Revolutionary Soldier

Adam is a bald eagle

Gabriel is "Captain America"

and Isaac is a cowboy

*Our friend Dakota edited the picture for us--isn't it fun?!

We really are proud to be American every season and every day.

Isaac is 4 years old

2011-12-04T07:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Isaac-a-la-la-pop!

We celebrated early--Dakota (our good friend who just left us for his mission to Tahiti) gave him his card a few days before. Isaac still loves T-rex, so Dakota created a Isaac T-rex for him.

And then we had a little party for him last night, Saturday the 3rd.

I molded green rice crispie treats into a happy, very-barney-like, T-rex to serve as his birthday cake.

He really enjoyed the party--He'd been looking forward to this for a long time!

The Treadwells came and so did our long-time neighbor-friends, the McDermotts. He knew that he was still 3, and he wouldn't let anyone get away with excitedly announcing that he was 4! But, he loved all the attention, and the mass of dinosaurs and other fun things he received.

(As I type this up, Isaac is making great dinosaur sounds and telling the story he is acting out solo with his new dinosaurs.)

Funny, sweet, onery, little Isaac.

He can be so darn adorable! I get a lot of comments on his sweet little "Excuse me" every time he wants to talk to someone. He is quick to say sorry after offending. He plays well on his own--though he doesn't often have to do it. He does the cutest cowboy poses when he has any kind of gun in his hand--but this cowboy stuff is serious business and they get greatly offended if they hear the word "cute" mentioned in their presence! He tells long yarns, often about T-rexes or his brothers--all include dying in lava, or falling over waterfalls and dying . . .

It isn't as adorable when he says "I don't like you, ever!" or "I'm not going to sleep with you again, ever!" (empty promise there--he still wakes up afraid most nights), or "I'm not going to live with you more, ever!" (After that last one I always say, "I will miss you." and he quickly says,"I'm sorry, mom." Actually it is kind of funny, especially when he tells me, "I won't let you change my pull-up anymore, ever!" (He was once potty-trained, but has decided it isn't for him, we are hoping it all works out soon).

He is a stinker, but we don't know what we would do without him in our family!! He is a favorite with all the brothers:

Gabriel says his favorite thing about Isaac is that he plays with him.

Adam gets a kick out of Isaac--he says he likes how he always says, "I'm the boss, okay?!" everytime they start to play a game.

Eli says he likes that Isaac is a "little Eli"--he is energetic, he's good at sporty things, and he loves dinosaurs!

Lolla-pop Moss, you really are getting BIG (that is what he wants most, ya know)!

Gabey turns 7

2011-08-28T14:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday,

Happy Birthday, Gabey

Oh,

We love you so! This Gabey baby of mine just keeps growin'!

I have asked him to stop multiple times and he lets me know that he can't stop.

This past week he finally let me know that, he would be turning 7 on Sunday, but I could just pretend he was still 6 (anyone who knows kids at this age will understand what he is sacrificing here, for the happiness of his mother--just the thought of still being younger would drive most kids mad).

That's my Ga-babe-riel. He is just so sweet and I wish I could hang on to his young little self forever.

This morning we all got mostly ready for church before we did his presents and special breakfast. I was trying to talk Adam into getting his hair presentable, which he wasn't inclined to do. Gabe heard me asking Adam to let me wet his hair, and Gabe sweetly said, "Adam, all I really want for my birthday from you is to do your hair so mom will be happy." It was so sincere and cute that Adam melted along with me.

Gabe's front two teeth had to be pulled out on our trip here in Utah because the grown-up teeth were coming in behind. My favorite little boy look is a two-front-teeth-missing smile. We didn't really get a chance to get a good photo of that because the other teeth were already coming in, and they've since decided to hurry very quickly to change my little boy's smile into a bigger boy's smile. I know it sounds silly, but this has been very hard for me.

OK, so I'll stop whining and just try to enjoy Gabe at each sweet stage of his life.

Anywho, . . .

We had a very fun party for him at my parents' house. It was their usual big family FHE night, so we had lots of cousins and second-cousins-once-removed in attendence.

Everyone was responsible to give the dish they brought a "jungle"-sounding name--Gabe had wanted a jungle/dragon party.

I did the FHE lesson on Becoming Knights (a.k.a. joining God's army).

We learned about obeying and working hard ("Mother-may-I"-type game, but they had to say "Your wish is my command, madam" to the moms or "Ever your humble servant, Sire" to the dads).

We also learned about saving Damsels in Distress (The "Damsels" were women in their lives, like their mother, grandmother, neighbor, or Primay President. They had to say ways they could rescue--or help--these Damsels).

Then the kids went followed a map of tasks on their quest to find THE DRAGON IN THE JUNGLE.
They ended up in the kitchen looking at Gabe's cake which was a rice-krispie dragon cave guarded by a Pheonix (the dragon-type gift Gabe really wanted).

A trail led from the cave to a bowl which Gabe lifted up revealing a carmel corn nest with little baby dragons hidden inside.

Each primary-age child was able to help dig through the carmel corn and pick a dragon to take home with them.

Then they dug in and ate up carmel corn and rice-crispie treats with ice cream.

It was such a fun night!!

I sure love my Gabe, even if he must keep getting older!

*Do ya like my cookey letter-art "GaBrieL" Dragon?!

Bishop David G. Moss

2011-07-10T15:52:00.000-07:00

It is official . . .

he was sustained (by all the Bloomfield ward) . . .

ordained (to office of High Priest, by his father) . . .

and set apart (by Stake President Wayne Taylor).

The new bishop of the Bloomfield Ward, Hartford, Connecticut Stake is . . .

my husband!
We were called into the Stake President's office and asked a month ago, so we've had time to process it a bit--though I have mostly seen it in its humorous irony up until today when he went up on the stand and didn't come back down.

My kids were priceless in their shock and surprise. The Stake Presidency commented on their gasps and exclamations, saying they were proof that David Moss could keep confidences.

Eli, Adam, and Gabe weren't quiet as they looked to me to confirm, "Dad is bishop?! Our Dad?! Bishop?!"

Isaac decided to be super challenging, just to make sure I really knew what I was getting into when I sustained my husband into this position.

It really has been nice to have David sitting with us this last year and a half, but I am glad that I already had the experience of sitting without him, under more challenging circumstances--Lone-Sunday-bench-parenting is not the part I really dread in this new calling.

The hardest part is having his mind and heart so full, of so many.

That is the reality.

Though I know that we are very high up on that list of persons, . . .still we must share and allow ourselves to come after others at times--that is why the wife is asked with the husband, eh?

I must say that, when we were called into the Stake Presidents office, I knew that he would be asked to be a counselor in the Bishopric (He says he really believed that it was going to be a Stake calling for me)--that seemed logical, and wouldn't interfere with the fact that we were hoping to move in the next year. I was surprised when he was asked to be bishop, but never really shocked.

I was blessed with an incredible calm and peace--no burning confirmation, but a stillness. In a way, it just seemed to make sense (though I pondered our thoughts of moving and waited for David to let the Stake President know about them).

David was much more shocked and humbled--sometimes I wonder if he really can't see the obivousness of these kinds of things in his life. He was overcome with the idea of the task at hand and his own adequacey, considering our great ward with many good and "more experienced" (older) men.

I have been struggling with many aspects of my life--health, kids, homeschool, house--though things are going okay. But when the Stake Pres asked me about those things, I really couldn't think of the challenges nearly as well as I saw all the blessings. I saw my good boys and a home we have been improving on, I saw the beauty in being able to homeschool.

I believe that HF was giving me the gift of gratitude in that moment--a glimpse at His hand and blessings in my life. Maybe he was trying to remind me that He has, and will continue to, help me as I listen and follow.

I know that my husband is amazing. I got in trouble for telling everyone that he is "practically perfect in every way" (he hates it when I say that--he got a bit of grief for it, since I said it in my testimony at church). I can see that he is the greatest blessing I have, and I get to have him for eternity!

I know that I must share him, . . . and willingly!

I know he will be a great bishop. He will do all in his power to follow the spirit. He loves his Heavenly Father and Savior. He will give this calling his best effort.

I was thinking this morning about him, and the thought that came to mind was:

There may be many as great, but there certainly can't be many better!

He will roll his eyes at that, but this is my blog, and that is how I feel.

The out-pouring of love and joyful acceptance from ward-members at church demonstrated that I'm not alone in my thoughts about my great husband.

*By-the-way, David never mentioned the possibility of us moving during that interview. When I asked him about it in the car, afterward, he became concerned and said that he hadn't even thought of it. He asked if I thought he should run back in and tell him. But his response had been the answer.

It isn't the time for us to think of moving. The Lord has made His choice, and we will stay until something tells us differently--A reminder for Rebekah that we do all things in the Lord's timing. Even if it seems confusing at times, we will trust Him. Afterall, He knows better than we do.

At church, right after he was sustained, Eli looked up at David and said, "Dad, Once and bishop, always a bishop!"

David called the boys to dinner today and Gabe replied, "Okay, Bishop Moss!" then he giggled at his little joke.

My mom called and asked, "Is Bishop Moss there?" Then she laughed and reminded me that I would be hearing that often enough.

And so it begins.

*If you've thought about a trip to the Northeast, we'd love to have ya. We'll be here a while yet,. . . And we really do love it here!!

United States History--inspiring

2011-06-05T12:01:00.001-07:00

Yes, We the people of the United States are fortunate in so many ways. It has been such a great experience to study more deeply some of our country's early history, and the people involved. What an intriguing and awesome group of individuals helped start this nation, and then continued to lead it in the right direction.
We have spent the month of May visiting places from the lives of our founding fathers.

First--Grandpa Von and Bella Nonna came out to visit and we all went up to Boston to walk the Freedom Trail. We had done this years before, but it took on new meaning and life. We visited the gravesites of men such as Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, and the victims of the Boston Massacre.

We followed the red brick path that led us passed Paul Revere's home, the Old North Church, and much more.Later on in May, we headed down to Washington, D.C. and Virginia with our good friends, the Treadwells.
We spent one 95 degree, humid day walking through D.C. We mostly wanted to see the Monuments and the National Archives--to see the original Declaration and Constitution. The boys weren't thrilled with the hours of walking in the heat, but it was a cool experience. We ended the day with a trip to the Air and Space museum.
The next day we were off to Mount Vernon--home of President George Washington. Dreamy. I loved the beautiful and organized grounds, and definitely felt a greater adoration for this great man after hanging out in the visitor's center and learning even more about him. (we are currently reading The Real George Washington as a family--so cool)

After swimming in a hotel pool and a good night's rest, we were ready for the awesome experience of seeing Monticello--the home of Thomas Jefferson. He is such a fascinating person, with a creative mind. His house was full of character and cool features. Isaac didn't think the tour was so cool, so David and Rebekah each heard just parts of it, but it was still neat.

The grounds and garden were beautiful. The kids especially loved the pond. It was filled with tadpoles, and the kids spent an hour catching them (one woman walking by told her son not to touch the water--poor kid-hee, hee). There was a great kids zone where the kids could learn about and act like Thomas Jefferson and his household.

More pool swimming (or goodwill shopping if you were a mom) and sleeping, then good-byes as we separated from the Treadwells for the trip home. You would have thought we would never see each other again--from the sad good-byes and carryings-on! We do love the Treadwells! (we started calling the kids a collective "Mosswells")

We found a tangent on our way home. Luray Caverns--ALMOST as cool as the caverns in Italy. I just love this fascinating, thousands-of-years-in-the-making, natural kind of stuff!

And, to continue this vacation's theme of visiting the homes of great men, we made a stop on our way home, to Columbia, Maryland and the home the exemplar David Gee Moss (from 7-15 years of age). It was so fun to see his familiarity and the excitement of childhood memories that poured out! The boys loved it because they have heard many stories about this home, with its very spacious lawn mown by a young man not any older than some of them! :) After a 12 hour day of completely separate traveling and stops, we happened to meet up with the Treadwells in the only place we could have, at the only time we could have, just before turning off to our separate towns--I can't make that sound as crazy and ironic and hystrical as it really was. It ended the trip with a good laugh!

We were home in time to sleep, go to church on Sunday, and be ready for David, Eli and Adam to march in the Bloomfield Memorial Day Parade on Monday, with our scout troop and pack.

I love America!!!

Grandpa Von and Bella Nonna

2011-05-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

My parents:
They are so loved.
They are so helpful.
They are so fun.
They are so missed.

They came out to visit--with sweet Ginny. We loved having them here to play, and go on walks, and make vegetable juices.
We had such a good time with them, and, therefore, the time flew.
It was hard for all of us to say good-bye, even though we plan on spending time with them this summer.
Tears of disappointment at their departure lasted a few days, especially for one sweet Giant Boy. He was discreet but unable to hold back his emotions and that was a pretty tender thing for his mother. That's what I get for having such awesome parents, I guess--heartache at not being closer, more often.

But, Don't worry. Giant Boy has a pretty awesome family here at home (hee, hee), and he'll make it until Callister time comes again!

Love you, Mom and Dad (and loved meeting and playing with you, too, Ginny)!

This is just a sweet picture of Isaac with a bird's nest that we found during LaCrosse practice one day.

Life is sweet.

Happy Spring!

Easter and a Deacon

2011-04-26T18:53:00.001-07:00

Easter weekend is always great, but this year it was extra special.

We the traditional Saturday morning "spring baskets"--at our house it is more like "Spring- string-which-leads-to-clues-and-a-shared-bag-o-fun"

The boys really look forward to the winding up of the string and finding the sweet clues at the end

(the only candy my poor children get is the chocolate the clue is attached to).

I am in charge of stringing Isaac's and Gabriel's, and David does Adam and Eli. Eli was working on his at least 10 minutes longer than the rest of them--David gave him a nice tour of the nooks and crannies of our house!

Saturday night we did "ressurection cookies", which we have done a few times before. None of us like the cookies much, but it is a nice segway into Sunday and the true Easter message.

Sunday morning we checked out our cookies and watched The Lamb of God.

I made bunny bread that morning in preparation for our Easter dinner and then we headed to 11:30 church.

This would be a very special Easter Sunday since Eli was sustained and ordained as a deacon in the Aaronic priesthood.

He looked so great in his new suit, with the crisp white shirt that David taught him how to iron that weekend.

I am such a sap, I know, but last Sunday Eli gave his final talk in primary. I was there and seriously had tears in my eyes as I looked at that big boy and knew he was moving on.

We had just recently taken this picture of Eli and Isaac, because, for a little while, they were the oldest and youngest in our Bloomfield primary. Aren't they sweet?!

A couple weeks ago Eli had his interview with our bishop, about graduating from primary and about worthiness to hold the priesthood. He even got his first temple recommend (it all makes sense, but I was floored). That sunday was very sweet for me, as I felt my good Eli's great spirit oozing out of him.

When I got home from church that day I tearily wrote the feelings of my heart:

4-10-11 Eli's Sunday

He didn't have a birthday just yet; He didn't get the priesthood, or graduate from primary. But he knows these things are coming, and he is preparing.

Eli had an interview with the Bishop today. He was taken out of his primary class for it, and I think this was significant for him.

When church was over, his glowing and eager face saught mine out from among the mass of parents in the hallway.

A sticker on his shirt to remind us of his talk in sharing-time next week, his scriptures in hand, and that aging, but still boyish face--all handsome and sweet, with a twinge of humble pride. He happily, though meekly, let me know that the bishop had asked him a few of the articles of faith (he knows them all very well). That was his sweet way of letting me know he had had the interview.

I get emotional writing about, and pondering, this. Earlier today it wasn't tears, but a sweet swelling in my heart--a swelling of honor and love for my good and golden-hearted Eli.

He was feeling such joy after that interview. He sat with David and I during a baptism, after church (I let the other kids hang out with treats in a different room, but he didn't ask to go).

Eli held my hand and leaned into me. After a few minutes he said, "Mom, I got my first temple recommend today." He said that the bishop had asked him the questions during his interview.

I wonder if Bishop Sowa feels that same level of joy from very many of those he interviews (the bishop told David that Eli presented himself well and he could tell that he was well-educated!!:)).

Eli was oozing contentment--the knowledge that he was making the choices he knew would be so pleasing to his parents, to God, and for himself.

I listened to this lover-of-singing as he tried to figure out how to best sing the melody to "I am a Child of God". His voice isn't comfortable up high anymore, but isn't quite low enough for the octive lower. :(

After the song he laid his head on my shoulder. A rush of love just filled my heart in that moment. What an honor to be the mother of this energetic and sweet boy.

I wish I could put into words the feelings of my heart for my Eli; My first born, curious, physical, adorable boy.

I can't believe he is 12, and yet, it fits him well.

He belongs up there with those boys, passing the sacrament. He is nervous about doing it, because he doesn't want to make a mistake or be the center of attention, but he will fulfill his duty well.

He has such a natural desire to do good.

He is growing, but staying young in all the right ways.

He isn't perfect, of course, but today I witnessed his pure goodness--that which is in his heart.

I believe I connected right with his spirit and know more certainly of his great potential.

Heavenly Father surely sent us one of his elect spirits in this boy. And with that reminder, hopefully I will be able to mother him with greater patience and insight.

I want him to be, and see in himself, what I touched today.

There are many challenges ahead, and a scarey/harsh world waiting this great boy. He will find his weaknesses, which will be frustrating for him, but I know his strengths are powerful, and he will be able to overcome.

I just love this talkative, creative, active, boy--I can't believe he is trying to become a man!:)

Eli carefully dresses and fixes his hair each Sunday. He doesn't do it for the girls, just yet, he does it because he knows it is good--it is what his Dad does. He tucks in his white shirt, ties his tie neatly, puts on his belt and nice black shoes (he doesn't want brown or anything casual-looking at all), he gels his hair (asking mom to help make it look just right).

If all this is done well before church time, then he plops down and creates worlds on the floor with blocks or cards (he made up a solar system game with rook cards this morning).

Eli just came down the stairs singing, "My name is Eli, and I'll be a deacon on Easter Sunday!" (Easter is April 24th this year).

Oh, my great-and-powerful-boy!

After church the Treadwell family came over and we did Easter dinner together. What a sweet blessing to have friends that feel like family! (and, yes, Isaac was like that all through the afternoon!)

What a great Easter!!!

12 years old!

2011-04-21T09:28:00.000-07:00

We've been over this for many years now, but . . . 12?!

Eli had a great birthday.
His dream came true when, not only did he get a new Lacrosse stick and balls, but the weather cooperate enough that he could have friends over and play outside! He made up a lacrosse-type game using plastic cups, since not everyone would have their own stick. He calls it "cupping" and he got to play it with neighborhood friends and Johnny Simcik (from church). This boys is pretty easily pleased and it was nice to see him have a great day.
Our friend Dakota stayed that night and watched Jurassic Park with him--Eli has been curious about this movie for years now, so I relented (we have been studying movies and special effects for a bit, and Jurassic park comes up often--not to mention the fact that he has been a dinosaur freak his whole life!)

Poor little Isaac was sick through all the fun.

Eli truly is the-great-and-powerful-boy, only now he is a giant boy (that is what I call him, anyway).

Happy Birthday, my Eli!

Remembering Toby on his first birthday!

2011-03-20T19:07:00.000-07:00

5 Boys

by Rebekah 2-8-11

Bustling, busy boys

School morning in progress

Unlike school in other places

Boys designing paper airplanes

Discussing which is stronger

Making up games

Loud big boys and loud little boys

What is missing?

Today we are reminded

Helping a friend

Watching a baby--

A baby born just a few weeks after mine

A baby who grunts and squeals

A baby boy, crawling

"Pick up those little things

"Here comes the baby"

Mom reminds

Four boy faces--11, 9, 6, 3

All surrounding this sweet boy

Anxious to get a smile

Seeking opportunities to give a kiss

Little hands upon my knees

As he practice-walks along the couch

Eyes look up, asking for a lift

Drool on my shirt

Baby fingernails scratching my neck

Exploring and examining my necklace--

my "Toby turtle" necklace

Hungry baby fed a bottle in my arms

Desperate to see all the big-boy action

Of course

"Mama, he spits!" Isaac reports

A dirty towel is found to wipe it up

A reminder

A little tender and swollen

But sweet just the same

5 boys

(look close and you can see the sweet, white number #5 jen sewed on Toby's hoodie)

Mom asked the boys:

What does Toby want for his birthday?

Isaac said, "Candy . . . gum candies."

Gabriel said, "To watch a movie . . . like Star Wars I . . . with caramel popcorn while we watch it . . . oh, and mamma to love."

Adam said, "Us to help one another. To help mom."

Eli said, "Toby wants us to not be sad that he's gone, but to be happy. Not to be happy that he's gone, but that he has a work to do that he couldn't do if he was with us."

Adam asked me what I thought Toby wanted:

I believe that Toby wants the peace and joy of seeing his family working hard to choose the right, so we can be an eternal family, with him!

As I was pondering Toby's first birthday, I came across this photo of our family in front of the Salt Lake Temple, and tears came to my eyes as I felt the full significance of our family sitting in front of that temple--the same temple we were married in, over 12 years earlier. Toby had left his body behind just a couple of weeks before that photo was taken. Our family was hurting, but whole.

We still hurt sometimes, but we are whole.

We feel so blessed to have the knowledge of eternal families, and the opportunity to be a part of one!

Toby's turtle:

At Toby's funeral David's sweet cousin gave me a necklace with his name on it. I loved having a physical reminder of Toby with me. I decided that I would be on the search of something "special" to put on a chain to remind me of him. I happened across this cute little turtle one day and instantly thought of cute little Toby's turtle. I bought it, and now turtles have become one symbol of Toby.

For Toby's first birthday I decided to use that symbol to help my boys understand that Toby is near. I placed toy turtles in different spots around the house for them to find. With each turtle was a message from Toby:

#1--School Room turtle:

Singing songs, learning poems, worlds to know and be created.

I watch you try, and with each bean you earn, I am elated!

(the boys earn beans for scholastic accomplishments--these go toward a family reward)

#2--Outside by the trampoline:

When Outside, playing ball or on the trampoline

Feel me laugh beside you, though I am unseen

#3--Living Room:

Scripture time, morning prayers, and each great big family hug

I join in with you, now and then. I'm near you on the rug.

#4--New turtle nightlight in the bedroom:

I can be near you any time, though I'm out of sight

My warm presence can be felt, like light that shines in night.

Toby's Love:

Rebekah 3-19-11

Toby is a busy man.

His days are full, like ours,

But he is ready to help out,

And can at any hour.

He knows each individual:

Brother, father, mother

And is filled with the same love

That we have for each other.

When we are laughing, happy,

Really full of bliss--

Toby jumps at the chance

To share moments like this.

When days are so frustrating

And you feel you may submit,

He longs to help, to let you lean

On his strength for a bit.

He knows our Savior and he longs

For us to feel and know

The hope, peace, love and joy

That Jesus Christ will show.

We would love to have had Toby

With us longer here on earth,

But know his role in our family

Carries on much past his birth.

We thank our Heavenly Father

For this special angel-friend.

Like us, Toby awaits the time

He'll be in our arms again.

Happy 1st Birthday Toby!

Adam's first 10 years

2011-03-10T11:56:00.000-08:00

What?! Adam is turning 10?
I know it is crazy, but . . .it's true!

I have decided that 10 feels like the end of little-boyhood, so I am going to celebrate (mourn) each boy's 10th birthday by reflecting upon his "childhood" (I started this on Eli's 10th birthday April 2009)

I want to include many of Adam's zany, funny, clever little comments--made throughout his life, which I have diligently kept in his own special journal, and which we have read over each year on his birthdays in the past, but . . .I CAN'T FIND THE JOURNAL--keep it in your prayers (it's killing me!).

Therefore, this relfection will have a different feel to it than it otherwise would, but maybe that's not so bad--I'll make his photo book much lighter--after I find the journal!

Presenting: Adam Von Moss

a.k.a. "Adomius Supremius", "A.V.", or "Sweet-and-sour-sauce" Moss

Rebekah's journal, November 4, 2000:

It was wonderful for me to be able to hear the baby's heartbeat for the first time. I cannot put into words the spirit of joy and excitement that filled me when I heard the proof of the life growing inside of me. As I drove home from the doctor's office, I couldn't keep from crying out of love for this new baby. I was grateful to my Father in Heaven for allowing me to be a part of bringing his spirit children into the world.

November 19, 2000:
It was a beautiful blessing, but as I heard the words David spoke concerning the strength and support I have around me, I knew that the test results would show a problem. He spoke not only of family and friends on earth, but made reference to spirits on the other side who would strengthen me. He got choked up as he became more specific. He said that one who was there and supporting me all the way was the spirit of the baby I am carrying right now. Tears streamed down my face as I thought of that spirit in particular, knowing that I am to be his mother. David said that this individual was happy to know he was coming to a home where he would be taught the gospel and be raised by a father and mother who love their Heavenly Father. . .I was especially comforted because I felt that this baby would be okay . . .

January 29, 2001:

I still really think that I am having a boy. David and I have narrowed the names down to Adam or Isaac. I lean a little more toward Adam and David a little more toward Isaac. I thnk this one will be Adam, but that we will be using Isaac down the road, because I like it, too.

March 11, 2001, writing about Adam's birth:

Before I knew it, Adam was laying on my stomach. Tears came to my eyes as I looked at this new little member of our family. I was so glad he was here and appeared to be so perfect. He weighed 7 lbs 9oz. and was 20 inches long.

That night I got up with Adam a few times, to feed him. I was glad to be alone with him. I just watched his face and touched his little body as I fed him. I really fell in love with him that night.

May 13, 2001:

David blessed Adam to have a special bond of friendship with Eli; to have a healthy body and mind; to serve a mission; marry in the temple; and to be understanding of his parents as they raise him. I was particularly touched by the first part, which mentioned a friendship between Eli and Adam. I am sure that there will be times when such a friendship may not be as apparent, but Iam certain that they will be close and grow to really appreciate having one another. That is just so neat for me to think about--I am not just having children, I am giving these spirits earthly brothers and sisters.

July 27, 2001:

Adam is a sweet little guy still. He is a bit picky, liking to be held up and facing out whenever he is awake. He already weighs 17.5 pounds (4 months). He is just the most smiley baby, when he is happy. He is often found in his crib, in the morning, with his feet in the air, his hands grabbing at whatever, and bubbles spitting out of his mouth, or cooing loudly. He is also rather ticklish and will laugh the most adorable laugh!

August 29, 2001:

Radiation treatments are done!

It has been a long year and yet, from hindsight, it seems to have gone by fairly quickly. Of course, the greatest moment in it all was March 11, when Adam Von entered our family--for him and his existance, I would do it all again, but thank heavens, I don't have to! :)
December 9, 2001:

David gets such a kick out of the boys and their complete adoration of him. If Adam is awake when David walks in the door, his face just beams and he does all he can to let David know he wants him to hold him (since he can't crawl to him yet this means grunting and slamming his hands down). If David walks in the opposite direction of Adam for even one second, out comes an enormously dejected cry that lasts until he is in Daddy's arms.

January 10, 2002:

Adam's first tooth finally broke through, AND he crawled for the first time. He must have known that if he waited even one day longer he would be 10 months old, and that is just too long to wait for either of those accomplishments! :)

October 20, 2002:

I am so glad that Eli has Adam, and that we have Adam. Though Eli can be tough for Adam sometimes, I also already see what a wonderful thing it is for them to have each other to play with and laugh with. Nothing makes Eli happier than when he gets Adam to laugh, and nothing makes Adam happier than laughin with Eli!

December 8, 2002,

After starting treatments again:

Adam is easily loved and has fallen in love with his Grandma Moss. He loves to sit with her and sing with her.

I worried that Adam would have nothing to do with me after my hair was gone. But he has been okay. For the first day he would point at me and with dramatically open mouth, say, "Ahh!" He wasn't afraid, he had found a new game (every time he did it someone would laugh).

Eli reminded me of this from Adam's childhood:

Eli did something to make Adam upset and Adam said, "You're just a jerk!" I had never heard Adam say that before and so I asked him if he knew what it meant.

Adam replied, with mischeivious grin, "It means, 'I love you, Eli.'"

May 17, 2004, mom is pregnant with child #3:

Adam was pretty excited when he heard the heart beat. Since he comes to all my Doctor appointments, he was very aware of what it was, and when he heard it he announced to us all, "That's my baby's heartbeat!"

June 1, 2004:

Adam loves to talk about being a big brother. He often says hello to the baby and gives me kisses asking, "Does the baby like kisses?" It will be so fun to see him with this baby.

August 11, 2005:

I look at my Adam, who just cracks me up, and loves it. I wonder if he will ever decide to stop telling me every morning that he loves me and thinks I am pretty.

I live for his cute compliments and goofy faces.

He is getting so long and thin. I love to pick him up and hug him because he is still not too heavy, but he has those long arms and legs that just wrap around my body, and I feel so engulfed in little boy--I don't know many things that feel better than that!

Adam loves to play Madlibs. Some of his favorite words to use are:

noun: poop, pee

body part: bum, armpit hair

verb: poo

adjective: stinky, hairy

liquid: purple liquid of the mind

You get the idea.

He can laugh for hours over some of these combinations. Boys, boys, boys. . .

Adam's journal May 5, 2009:

My name is Adam and I am 8.

Pasta is my favorite food.

I like to play Stratego.

I will play that now with Eli.

October 10, 2010:

We just got back from church and Sister Rice gave me a bag of gumdrops. Well, I'm very grateful to her.

Well that's just one thing, and I also have a new cousin. Her name is Hannah Maureen, born 10-10-10. Caleb's sister.

10-4.

Poem by Adam, January 20, 2011:

Equal to Each Other

Men so tall and kids so small

Are equal to each other.

Good thing we have

Our Father in Heaven to guide us

And protect us

And make us maybe live

With Him again.

Everyone is equal

Like millions of people.

So much could be written, so much has been left out, but as Adam said to me yesterday:

"An Adam is an Adam, and ya can't change that!"

My reply?

Who would want to?

Thanks for the memories, little boy Adam. I'll miss you, but am excited for the young man you are working toward becoming.

Mom

Winter--it's been fun!

2011-02-26T11:38:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time, but not because we haven't been busy and full of things to say (just ask anyone who gets on the phone with me).
We are loving the winter--a particularly snowy one for CT this year!
My boys may be happiest in the winter--they find so many fun things to do in the snow.

They don't necessarily like the responsibility of snow removal--though they would take it over any form of house-work.

We have changed our eating habits pretty significantly during the past few months. The boys aren't thrilled with all the changes, but they can really get into our morning smoothies--if there is enough fruit.

They started a new chant:

You hoot, I hoot, we all hoot for ice fruit!

If it is too green and Kale-ish, it isn't as appetizing for them, but they still drink a little. Eli has become quite a pro at making them for the family.

The kids are really enjoying the neighborhood boys. There were quite a few snow days this year, so I often had 8 boys playing nerf wars in my basement.

When there isn't a snow day, my kids can't wait until their friends get home from school, and will camp outside, waiting for the bus to drop them off.

The boys, and friend Johnny, dug a nice deep hole in the snow in the front yard. The hole was at least 4 feet deep. It was pretty cool until David was out playing king of the mountain with the boys and Eli was knocked into the hole, bum-first. He could not move and if David hadn't been there it would have taken some pretty significant mamma-strength to get him out. We decided no more deep, narrow-ish holes.We have also really enjoyed watching the wild-life around our house. I love to see the cute squirrel, deer, and chipmunk prints on the snow.

We spent over an hour one morning watching an interesting Owl verses Crows stand-off in one of our big oak trees. These crows were edging their way closer to the owl (I can see why a group of crows is called a murder--they can look pretty creepy). It looked like they were trying to get him to leave. We found out later that they were all desperate for a squirrel the owl had caught. We discovered this when the squirrel leaped out of the owl's nest and sped down the tree trunk (about 30 minutes after we started watching).

There were lots of oohs, ahhhs, and screams coming from inside our house, but the creatures didn't seem to notice.

One crow (there were at least 7 in the beginning) and the owl flew up and rested on the tree closer to our house where the squirrel had run. I took this shot of all three of them--waiting. (the squirrel ended up getting away--at least for awhile).

It was so interesting.

I just love the winter sunlight pouring into my kitchen--it makes things so cheery (not including the highlighting of finger-prints on my black appliances, of course).

*My sweet friend, Miss Angie, sent me that adorable heart apron. She said when she saw it she knew it was meant for me. I love it!! I am just happier cooking/cleaning/mothering when I have it on!

And, The Grand Finale:

The middle bathroom (mostly complete)

Isn't it happy?!

hallelujah chorus

2010-12-16T13:33:00.000-08:00

Cool experience!

Our friends, the Treadwells, heard about a minister who was organizing a flash mob singing of the Hallelujah Chorus. Anyone who knew their part was welcome to join in on the sing at the local mall (Buckland Hills Mall in Manchester, CT).

It was at 3:00pm on a Sunday afternoon, and we decided it would be a neat thing to witness, so we packed up our families and headed over. *Eli commented that he had never been to a mall on a Sunday before--I let him know that I didn't think I ever had either.

We weren't sure how the turn out would be, so we took place in the outskirts near the big yellow advertisement sign. Pretty soon we were packed in tight. When the trumpet started to play and the conductor's arms went up, the number of voices we heard was awesome!

We were possibly the only members of our own faith represented there that afternoon, but what a thrill to be surrounded by fellow Christians, belting out a song in praise of the Savior of us all!

*You can always pick out David holding Isaac, and Gabe's best buddy Chase, who is in front of the yellow sign, on his dad's shoulders. Look for the rest of us.

Merry Christmas!

All Isaac wanted was a T-Rex Birthday

2010-12-05T13:06:00.000-08:00

Isaac Warner is now 3 years old! I just can't believe it.
I guess that it feels like he has been a part of the family for at least that long, but he is Lolla-pop--he can't grow up!

He didn't really grasp the whole birthday thing--I'm not so good at teaching my kids the answers to crazy questions like, "How old are you?", so he was completely clueless that there was a number associated with him. All he knew was that he was going to have a party.

And, from the beginning he was adamant that his would be a "T-Rex Birthday". He practiced his growl and roar all week.

See, he wasn't thinking about getting T-Rex toys, he was thinking about being a scarey T-Rex, himself. All the rest of the birthday stuff was just perks. And he got some fun perks:

His cake may not look like much, but it was a fun licorice-spewing volcano, complete with 3 T-Rex dinosaurs, and Isaac thought it was great fun to play with.

Well, he chased and roared and growled to exhaustion (not unlike most days, except for the exhaustion part):Isaac sure has been an exciting 2 year old --3 should prove interesting!

We don't know what life would be like without this entertaining and constant little fellow. He is truly adored by all in our household, and has gripped the hearts of many outsiders--there is just something so fascinating and un-ignorable about our Moss boys, especially our Isaac-a-lolla!

A MARY POPPINS HALLOWEEN!!!!!

2010-11-01T14:12:00.000-07:00

Yes, it has finally happened.
I've looked forward to this day for quite some time.

Aren't we cute?!

Okay, so we aren't exactly Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, and some of our penguins are a bit large (one is admittedly a Vampire Penguin--how else do you talk an 11 year old into being a penguin for Halloween?).

A couple of years ago I highlighted family halloween themed pictures from our past to prove the point that my husband loves me--well, he must still really adore me! He was willing not only to put on the assigned clothing (a suit made out of old curtains--how very Sound-of-Music of me, eh?), but to do it while feeling rather under the weather.

Thank you, my David!!

Another Halloween come and gone.
What should we be next year? Hmmmm.

A great Birthday

2010-10-16T15:54:00.001-07:00

My 33rd birthday was spent out in Kent, CT hiking next to a waterfall, collecting pretty leaves with Gabriel, enjoying charming New England covered bridges, and spending time with my sweet cousin Tobra and her family.

It was wonderful. I really just feel so happy when I can be out enjoying a beautiful scene.

Okay, so I talked my kids and husband (he is the hardest) into a number of pictures, since it was my birthday. My cousin's husband Mark took most of them--thanks Mark!

I call this next picture my Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde picture--can you see why? We laughed for quite awhile over this one: (Isn't my Little Miss Sunshine shirt cute?!!)

33!

My kids thought I had already been 33, and was turning 34--so it is like I got a year younger! Thanks boys!

Yosemite, wow!

2010-10-01T14:27:00.000-07:00

When I am immersed in nature, it is like being in the temple. I just love the beautiful things Heavenly Father and our Savior have given us to enjoy and to help us remember Them.

Pictures just don't do this beautiful place justice, but . . .
they must suffice for now.

What a beautiful experience, made all the better because we were able to share it with Bella Nonna and Grandpa Von!

*There were many active-retired people out hiking these trails, and they got a kick out of hearing things like, "slow down Grandpa, you're going to fast!"
There is one picture in there where grandma has her hand on Eli's back, encouraging him along. We are so lucky to have healthy and active grandparents to do this fun stuff with!!!!

And Gabriel turns 6!!!

2010-08-28T16:20:00.001-07:00

Gabriel is really 6.
I can't believe it.
The day before his birthday I reminded him that this was his last day being 5. As I said it, the reality of it fully hit me, and tears came to my eyes.
I just can't believe this little guy is growing up. He is my cuddley mama's boy (though already a bit less than he once was). He has promised me over and over that he will still cuddle me and that (as long as no one else really hears) I can still call him my Gabey-baby, but . . .
there is just something about my sweet Gabey. I hate to see the others grow up (Eli has been halted at 11 since 12 is just rediculously old for one of my boys), though, of course, I know it has to happen and that it is actually a good thing,
but my GABEY?
He's the boy that called me "mother" (actually "mudder") from age 2-4, though none of us knows where he got it.
He is the one who climbs into my bed and snuggles right in next to me every morning, and is upset when I would exercise before he gets up, 'cause I'm not in my bed for cuddle-time.
He's the one who always wants to come with me.
He's the only one who said "mama" before he said, "dada".
He adores his father (who wouldn't), but tells me often that he loves me more than anyone else in the world, except for Heavenly Father and Jesus.
I know that he isn't turning 18 and leaving my home. But I've seen how quickly 6 turns into 11. Now 11 has its charm, and 6 is adorable, but doesn't it just sound so much older than sweet little 5?

Okay enough sappy mom talk.

Gabe wanted a cowboy and indian birthday theme this year. He associates this with Lincoln logs (hence the 2-storey "log cabin" birthday cake).
For his little family party we played out a story about a Clever Cowboy. This is how he received some of his presents. Here it is:

One day a Clever Cowboy and his buddy were out exploring the frontier.
They came across a camp of Indians (Gabe opens his toy indian camp).

The indians were friendly, but were upset. They were upset because they couldn’t find The Dark Stallion. This very special horse belonged to the chief’s son. They knew that their enemies, a neighboring indian tribe, had taken him. (Eli and Adam in indian costume with weapons).

The Cowboys volunteered to help find the stallion. They knew it would be good for them to make friends with these good indians. There would be a battle, but they were prepared to fight. (Gabe gets two wooden pistols)

The battle began. Whoops were heard, arrows hissed by, feathers flew, and shots were fired. (Cowboy and Indians battle)

The enemy was strong and brave, but not as strong as our clever cowboy and his friends.

The friendly Indians were happy they had defeated their enemies. They were especially grateful for the wonderful help of the Clever Cowboy. The chief’s daughter presented him with a gift of thanks. (Gabe receives a new blanket)

Then the Chief invited the Clever Cowboy into his Teepee for a pow-wow. They agreed to help each other and be friends. (Gabe sees the teepee David, Eli and Adam put together for him)

The cowboy was thrilled to have some allies out there in the wild frontier. He invited everyone back to his log-cabin for a wild and crazy feast.

(Gabe wanted his lunch to have silly names: dessert juice, Slug slime--mac & cheese, rat tails--hot dogs, Mammoth muscle--cantaloupe, sliced rattlesnake--cucumbers, pig tails--cheeto puff twists, Grubs--baked beans, and lots of blood--ketsup. All eaten on animal plates, of course)

But, what about the special Dark Stallion? Hmmm, a mystery.

(Gabe didn't discover the location of the dark stallion until "cake time")

It was fun.

Gabe is happy to be 6 (but already looking forward to his 7th birthday).

We sure love our Ga-babe-riel!

His Majesty's Men in Boston

2010-08-15T12:32:00.000-07:00

We decided, very last-minute-like, to head up to Boston on Saturday morning. We knew that there was going to be a reinactment of the British encampment of 1775. There would be soldiers doing drills, a skirmish, and other fun things to see. This was all done on the Boston Common (which is the actual location of the encampment all those years ago).

Lobster-backs (as my children reminded me they were sometimes called) were everywhere.

The boys got to ask questions, see the little battle up close, and ponder a bit the other side of the story. It was great!

After all the fun with the soldiers, we walked a block to Cheers to eat lunch, then crossed the street and walked through the Public Gardens. We got to see the swan boats on the pond and thought of The Trumpet of the Swan by E. B White and the adventures that take place there in Boston.

We also got to see the Mother duck and her ducklings from the book Make Way for the Ducklings (sweet book by one of my loved children's authors Robert McCloskey--also wrote Blueberries for Sal).

It was so magical and happy for me.

In the end the boys favorite part was probably the Italian Ice they got just before heading to the car to go back home--well, . . . between that and the guns firing!

(Mom, just so you know, Gabe did ask it they had Snoasis--that would have been his first choice.)

We feel very fortunate to live so near to some of these really neat places!!

Come and visit!

Christmas in July

2010-07-31T17:47:00.001-07:00

I love doing Christmas in July.

We read Christmas stories, watch some Christmas movies, listen to Christmas music, . . .

So fun.

We decided that we needed to add Christmas deliveries and caroling.

We thought of some of the people here that have helped us, or who need a surprise.

I wrote this poem which we attached to Christmas cookies (the boys painted them with egg yolk and food coloring, then we cooked them. Sweet and fun.)

The Christmas season comes once a year
Filled with hope and wishes of cheer.
The busy days move quickly by
Then, it’s all over. We heave a sigh.

Exhausted perhaps, and ready to move on,
But will all that Christmas cheer be gone?
Will people greet and smile, give and share,
Chat with a stranger, show they care?

Yes, many do—they know Christ’s love.
It is they who bring with them hope from above
Down to God’s children, here on earth.
Everyday they remember Christ’s birth;

The gift of His life; His example for us;
His constant watch; in whom “we trust”.
The Christmas spirit lives on each day.
Hope burns bright, as we are shown the way.

This “Christmas in July” we want to Thank you
For your Christmas spirit, shown all the year through.

We sang , "We wish you a merry summer, We wish you a merry summer,. . . happy Christmas in July!"

Our Friends, the Treadwell family, made some of the deliveries with us.

It was such a great time.

I think we brightened a few days, and certainly made ours memorable.

I am so grateful for all of our family and friends. I wish we could have dropped by some of your houses with a treat. The poem certainly applies to all of you!!

(maybe we'll need a little Easter in August ... hmmm.)

A photo journey through June and July

2010-07-14T11:59:00.000-07:00

Life is full, busy and rushing forward.
June is gone, and so far in July much has happened:

David turned 35, boys played, carpet ripped out, Alex arrived, concert in the park, 4th of July, bumps and bruises, trip to Maine--camping, Fort Knox, lobster, lumberjacks, Acadia National Park, Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain--, trip to New York City, etc.

If a picture paints a thousand words . . .

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-09T13:00:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day was remembered at our house today.
I received pictures and notes, balloons and flowers, and lots of great hugs and kisses!
Right now my husband is making the fattening pasta dish I requested--ya gotta love a man who can cook well, . . .and I do.

Of course, I want to take this moment to thank my mom and my mother-in-law. They are both great women. They each have wonderful strengths, which I benefit from.

When we knew that our Toby would die, my mother-in-law offered us a plot they owned in the Sugar City cemetery. I don' t know if she fully realized how involved this would make her in all preparations, but it was such a peace-filled relief to have that part of things figured out.
She opened up her home to the masses. She organized, made calls, and did her best to make the experience all I wanted it to be. I am so appreciative to her for the organized, sensitive, loving way she served us.
Every time I am with her, I love her more.

My mom basically lived in CT for a couple of months. She and my Dad came out to help us move in to the house, but she stayed on a week longer and put in hours of painting--reaching up and bending low, since my very pregnant body could not do either of those moves. She did a lot during that time and was surely ready to get home for a rest.
2 weeks later she was back. I thought I had leaked some fluid and was worried this baby would come soon and she wouldn't be here. She didn't want that to happen, so, even though the Doctors said I hadnt leaked, she canceled a planned trip to Mexico, got on a plane and headed out. She got a one-way ticket because we didn't know what would happen and when--she joked that this had to be David's worst nightmare, The mother-in-law coming with a one-way ticket. Who knows when she would leave?! hee, hee. He actually really enjoys her and was grateful that she was there to help me.
She took kids to the park, made meals, and provided the companionship I needed to take my mind off of the heavy things ahead.

We hung out, without a birth, for quite a while. She didn't complain, though she I know she worried about her Stake calling responsibilities and about my grandma back in Utah.
On March 19th I was contracting about 3 minutes apart, pretty hard, all day long. She went along with my desire to get things done anyway. We drove 20 minutes to Manchester, went to a craft store and then to Sam's club--I had to stop and grab the cart during the contractions, and sometimes we both wondered if we were doing the right thing, but nothing changed and we made it back home just fine.

The next morning David and I headed off to the hospital. We said we would call her as soon as we knew what was happening. We wanted the kids to be at the hospital as soon as Toby was born since, if he was born alive, we didn't know if we would survive long and wanted them to have a chance to see him, if possible. Mom knew the way and would be ready.

My mom was able to hold our tiny Toby while he was alive. I am so glad that she shared this amazing experience with us. I know she felt some very special things in that moment, and I think Toby was thanking her for helping his mom so much.

My boys are very fortunate to have 2 wonderful grandmothers. They each provide my children with love, fun, and examples of what it is to be a family and how to be Christlike.

We Love all you great mothers!!

Eli is ELEVEN!

2010-04-21T11:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, time just flies!

My Eli is eleven today.

He had a great birthday party last Saturday--thanks to fun brothers, aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents!

He has been planning his "The Eleventh Hour" birthday party for quite awhile--We highly recommend this children's book by Graeme Base!

The Eleventh Hour is a mystery book filled with fun animals--the main character is

Horace the Elephant.

He has planned a party and invited 10 friends to help celebrate his 11th birthday.

We acted out some of the story and worked together to solve the mystery of

Who Stole the Feast?. . .and How?

Each person was assigned an animal part and dressed accordingly.

We played and laughed and ate and enjoyed!

The next day was Uncle Josh's birthday, so we saved the big birthday cake until then and had them blow out the candles together--my big brother and my big boy, awww!

We sure love our Eli and are so glad that his intelligent, imaginative brain, and golden heart are a part of our family!

Baby Toby

2010-03-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

Joseph Tobia Moss

March 20, 2010

"baby Toby"

A perfect gift from Heaven

Soft, full, kissable cheeks

10 sweet fingers

10 cute toes

Fresh new life

Bringing with him the true essense of heaven

Though life was brief for our baby Toby

His affect has been great.

He knows us
He will not forget

We have known him

We must remember

remember the precious time he spent in each of our arms

remember a baby brother worthy enough not to be tested here

remember this active, strong spirit who is a part of our eternal family

remember that we knew him before and want to be with him again

remember that he is cheering us on, interested in each of us and our eternal success

Remember that we can overcome our weaknesses and imperfections and be with him again because of a perfect big brother, Jesus Christ, our Savior. He, too, longs for our happiness and return.

Yes, for us, a beautiful reminder of the hope and joy found in the perfect plan of a loving Heavenly Father was wrapped up in a sweet little baby boy bundle . . .

Truly a perfect gift from Heaven.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

2010-03-17T14:45:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love a reason to wear green, eat green, think magical thoughts, make rainbows, read stories with your own version of an Irish accent, . . .?

I do.

Yeah, St. Patrick's Day!!!

Adam Von turns 9

2010-03-14T11:49:00.001-07:00

Adam Von Moss has turned 9 years old.

It is just so strange to think of my boys turning the ages I remember so well, myself.

We had our friends, the Midgley family, come for his party. He and Taylor Midgley were best of friends before we moved and were very happy to see one another again.

Adam wanted a "Lego" birthday. He ended up with some very cool Lego toys, and was thrilled to receive each of them. After he had opened all his gifts he said, with pure contentment, "I just don't know how to thank all of you enough!" So sweet and fun.

He also received a nerf gun, which has been in action by either him or one of his brothers ever since. Grandma got into the action one day--they were doing human targets that day. She took her turn as a target, and then got to shoot at Eli.

Adam is as stubborn and charming as ever. He loves drawing, building, hearing funny stories about himself, playing madlibs (fav. nouns: poo, bum, and armpit hair--his fav. verbs and adjectives can be guessed), and doing anything to make others laugh. He wishes his mother would let him have video games, but is pretty creative and finds other things to fill his day.

We love our Adam!!

The Movers are in my house right now!!

2010-01-18T03:52:00.000-08:00

So crazy that this is all actually happening!
I haven't posted in awhile and won't be able to after today because the movers are taking my computer and sending it to the good ol' U.S.A!

I have a lot of mixed feelings about going back. We are excited to see some old friends and to live closer to family (CT used to sound so far from Utah and Idaho, but now it sounds a whole lot closer).
We will miss so many of our sweet friends and neighbors here in Italy. We have had a few tearful hugs already at church, and one sweet sister scowls at me whenever she gets the chance and says, "cattiva!" (bad, wicked, evil). It is her way of letting me know that we are breaking her heart. Oh, Marisa! And, I don't want to think of saying good-bye to Cinzia!

I get teary often when I look out my back windows and know that I won't be waking up to this view everyday, or watching next year's crop grow behind my house. I really have just loved living out here in the Italian country-side. You can bet that I will be looking for a place in the U.S. where I can enjoy fields of corn and wheat once more--maybe a few orchards. . .and grape vines . . . and cute farmers who like my children to run around in them all (asking too much?).
Anyway, we know that once we get back to CT and get everything settled, we will love it, just as we did before we moved here. I am grateful to know where I am going, and that the Bloomfield ward family is waiting with open arms.

This has been quite an episode in THE LIVES OF DAVID AND REBEKAH MOSS. I hope that I can find a way to capture the magical parts of this experience so that I will never forget them. There have been plenty of challenges here, but right now they feel so small in comparison with all the beautiful things.

I think that Eli and Adam will "grow up" more than I want them to this next year--they have stayed even younger than their ages in our somewhat isolated situation. Gabriel will hopefully stay little a bit longer, and Isaac is already too old for himself.

I have cherished this special time with all "little" boys. I have soaked it all in, I think, but I still feel a sense of mourning for this special era in our lives. I can see that Eli, who turns 11 in April, will be a young man very soon, though I think he will always have some of the magic of "little boy" in him. The other will quickly follow, as life just continues to fly by.
Okay, you can tell that I am at a particularly sentimental time right now. All my emotions are at surface.

Italy has been the hardest, neatest experience. I am so grateful that I followed the feeling in my heart that this was right for us, instead of following the worry in my mind and saying "no thanks--too hard".

I know that Heavenly Father loves us and knows what is best for us, if we will just open our hearts to the messages He sends, and turn our lives over to Him, the outcome will always be right and good and filled with peaceful assurance.

Next post will be from our sweet old friendly house number 11!

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-22T06:55:00.000-08:00

We had a great adventure a couple weeks ago. We decided that we wanted to see the Ice Mummy in Balzano, Italy (in 1991 a man was found in the Alps, frozen in the snow. After really looking him over they discovered that he was at least 5, 000 years old)! They have him in a cool freezer room so you can see the body--it was mummified very well by the snow and Ice. His clothes are in amazing shape, considering their age (also in temperature controlled display cases). It was very interesting. We couldn't take pictures inside, so we have no evidence, but we thought it was cool. Isaac loved roaming around and being chased by us--he set off only one alarm the whole time (leaned too far into a display--the alarm led us to him, we had lost him for a minute)
While in Bolzano we discovered that there is a big Christmas market in the city center.
Bolzano is about 20 min. from Austria. All of the signs are in both Italian and German. The Austrian influence is great in the architecture and decoration. I loved it. Our Hotel was this yellow, old-fashioned, adorable building.
The market was filled with cute ornaments and such (mostly very breakable--we only bought one cute wooden star). We mostly enjoyed it for the food--hot cheese sandwiches, hot dogs with saurkraut, struedel, hot chocolate, pretzels, chocolate, . . . YUM!
I have made the drive up that direction before and have to say that it is one of the prettiest views ever! I love the mountains covered in orchards and vineyards, with adorable old homes dotted here and there. I just look out the window and , "ohhh, ahhhh! Oh, David, look at that! Dont' you just want to live there? Can you even imagine? . . ." So charming!!

Snow Days!!!!! What?! Cesena, Italy has snow enough to play in?!

Yes. For the first time in the 3 years we have lived here there is snow to play in.

The boys were so excited they could barely stand to eat breakfast before running out there. It was freezing, and we don't have great snow stuff, so it didnt' last super long, but they sure had fun.

David was able to go out with them on Saturday and build a snowman.

Gabriel doen't remember ever really playing in snow before and he was so cute about it.

Isaac kept looking out the window and trying to figure out what this stuff was.
Talk about amazing timing--we may even have a white-ish Christmas!

Can't believe that Christmas is coming so soon. I just don't want the season to end. I keep trying to convince my children that we should wait a few more weeks to celebrate at our house--they don't agree with me!

They are watching White Christmas right now--they love this movie (Danny Kaye has become one of their favorite actors). Their favorite part is when the guys sing "Sisters", of course!

There are just so many great things about Christmas time.

Isaac is 2 years old, already?!!

2009-12-04T08:37:00.000-08:00

Little Isaac turned 2 today.

Sometimes I can't believe that he is so big, but I also just can't really remember our before-Isaac-family. He is such a big part of our lives, it seems he must have always been here.

Isaac has so much energy. He loves to climb and explore; he seems to have no fear of bodily harm and is constantly testing the limits (we have dealt with his kind before, but it makes a difference when one's house is exclusively hard, tile flooring). This morning I had to quickly grab him when he decided to try going down our long set marble stairs, head-first--He had done this a few times on the set of 4 steps we have upstairs, and was successful, so . . .

Isaac loves books. He mostly loves to see pictures of animals inside of books. He will bring me a book "boot" whenever he sees me sitting on the couch. He just climbs up, flips through the pages for me, exclaims at every person or animal--saying "hello" for the people and generally "roar" for the animal--and when he is ready for another says, "awe done!", throws that one on the floor and goes to get another one. If no one is able to read to him, he find books just as thrilling to pull off the shelves and toss around the room--the possibilities really are endless when it comes to books!

Isaac loves stuffed animals--really anything very soft. My other boys like them now, but really didn't get into them as little boys. Isaac just can't help but squeeze and snuggle anything soft. Of course, he likes the real thing, too, and "gatto", the cat, often finds himself tackeled and laid upon by Isaac.

For his birthday today he received two stuffed kittens and the first thing he did was squeeze and breathe them in and give them a good welcome "meow". Then he took them to the cow trough we have in the kitchen, got inside with them, laid down, and used them as his pillows--he was content this way for quite some time.

Isaac loves his brothers. They each play a different role in his life, and each is important. He seems to have figured out a system of when to ask whom to play with him. Eli is his morning brother and his best outside-time buddy. Adam loves to play at job-time, and is great for monster play before meals. Gabriel is off and on all day--Isaac often grabs Gabriel during school-time and says, "Dabey! Play! Amals (animals)!" His world is a better one because he is lucky enough to have 3 big brothers to mimick, idolize, bother, and love.

Isaac, you are handsome, funny, exhausting, curious, adored, . . . and you've only just begun!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

So much to be thankful for . . .

2009-11-26T02:22:00.000-08:00

I am so blessed. As I have been going through photos from the last couple of months, I have been overwhelmed by the big and little things that make my life so wonderful, and for which I am so grateful. Here are just a few of the many gifts I have been given:

Amazing family:

My kind, sweet, selfless grandmother:

A love for nature--something my boys share with me:

Healthy, energetic boys (sometimes I forget that energy is a blessing)

A sweet, smiley Gabey face--who wouldn't want a basketfull of that?!

Good friends:

Dirt--it saves my life:

Sweet blond hair to add variety to our brown-haired crew:

Lack of Television programs, but joy of the occassional DVD

(like for family "haircuts and a movie night")

*this was Isaac's first haircut--just a little off the bottom

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

I don't know how people get through life without it!

This is La Primaria del Ramo di Forli:

Sweet brother moments:

A House to live in--and we really LIVE in it--and a great yard for exploring and adventuring:

Obviously,

THE BOYS who make life full, challenging, unpredictable, and fun.

And a Practically Perfect husband, who takes such good care of all of us

(So glad that he fell for me):

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for all that I have been blessed with.

Halloween week--scarey!

2009-10-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast October has flown!

We have been enjoying some of the beauties of fall--like the need for long sleeves and jackets (I just love a crisp, chilly breath of fresh air)!!

Of course October brings our traditional "Halloween" books, movies, baking, and decorating.

We start every school day with Five Little Pumpkins, which we learned from Grandma Moss and just love (we have assigned each person his/her appropriate pumpkin):

Five little pumpkins sitting on a gate.

The first one says, "Oh my, it's getting late!" (Mom)

The second one says, "There are witches in the air!" (Gabe)

The third one says, "I don't care." (totally Adam)

The fourth one says, "Let's run, and run, and run!" (yup. Eli)

The fifth one says, "I'm ready for some fun." (Isaac)

Then, "woooooooooo" goes the wind,

And OUT (clap) go the lights!

And the 5 little pumpkins roll out of sight. (rolling hands)

I have been trying to learn one of the Witches' chants from Macbeth, because it is so fun and perfect for Halloween: Round about the cauldron go, in the poisoned entralls throw . . .

I was hoping to encourage my kids to learn Windy Nights, By Robert Louis Stevenson:

Whenever the moon and the stars are set,

Whenever the wind is high,

All night long in the dark and wet,

A man goes riding by.

Late in the night when the fires are out,

Why does he gallop and gallop about?

Whenever the trees are crying aloud,

And ships are tossed at sea,

By on the highway, low and loud,

By at the gallop goes he.

By at the gallop he goes, and then

By he comes back at the gallop again

I would say it in my creepiest voice, hoping to really grab them.

Well, . . .Adam would cover his ears and sing every time I began the poem, because he was sick of it, but . . .he'll love it next year!

One of our favorite books/poems to read at Halloween time is the tale of The Spider and the Fly (a favorite all year, but especially fun at this time of year). There is another really cute book called Here They Come by David Costello. It is one of Gabe's all-time favorites and is just fun!

In early October the boys learned the song, "When Johnny Comes Marching Home". It is a marching song from the civil war (the Northerners sang it). I showed them later how it is the same tune used in "The Ants Go Marching", and we learned that one. Well, since it was coming on Halloween we decided to write our own Halloweeny version--some of the verses are a bit tricky to fit in, but the boys and I had a pretty fun hour putting it together, and Isaac thought we were hysterical. Here are the basic verses:

The Ghosts go haunting 1 by 1,

ooooo, ooooooo (scarey ghost sounds)

The Ghosts go haunting 1 by 1,

ooooo, oooooo

The Ghosts go haunting 1 by 1,

The scariest one says, "This is fun!"

And they all go haunting

down to the town

to scare all the kids!

ooooooooo (longer scarey sound to lead into the next verse)

The ghost go haunting 2 by 2, . . .

The scariest one howls at the moon.

And they all go haunting . . .

ooooooooo

The Ghosts go haunting 3 by 3 . . .

The scariest one looked right at me!

And they all go haunting . . .

oooooooooo

The Ghosts go haunting 4 by 4 . . .

The scariest one hid behind the door.

And they all go haunting . . .

ooooooooo

The Ghosts go haunting 5 by 5 . . .

The scariest one died at 95.

And they all go haunting . . .

oooooooo

The Ghosts go haunting 6 by 6 . . .

The scariest one stopped to eat some chicks.

(Adam's favorite, but you could change it to "throw some sticks")

And they all go haunting. . .

ooooooooo

The Ghosts go haunting 7 by 7 . . .

They've never made it quite to heaven.

And they all go haunting . . .

ooooooooo

The Ghosts go haunting 8 by 8 . . .

The scariest one made an old woman faint.

And they all go haunting . . .

ooooooooo

The Ghosts go haunting 9 by 9 . . .

The scariest one stopped to rattle the pines.

And they all go haunting . . .

ooooooooo

The ghost go haunting 10 by 10 . . .

When the sun comes up they'll be gone again.

And they all go haunting . . .

ooooooooo

Halloween is a chance to laugh at the spooky,

to try something creepy,

(Adam with a shrimp scampi we used in our dinner that night--colored hair and eyes added)

or to feel a nice little chill go up your spine--like when we wonder what really happened to Icabod Crane in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

Always nice to have another reason to celebrate!

Life back to normal?

2009-10-18T05:44:00.000-07:00

Okay, it always takes me a little while to get back into the swing of things after visiting family in the states. But this time, it is just a bit crazy.
There have been some interesting things to alter the speed of transition, like:

#1--an injured David, trying to recover from the 4-wheeler accident on the dunes in Idaho. This is a true trial for him (and me). He broke 3 ribs, cracked his sternum, cracked his pelvis and bruised a lung--all recoverable, but painful. He has never been incapable of helping with so many of the everyday things in our lives, nor has he ever been in significant pain for a long period of time. He is trying to be patient and let things heal, but doesn't enjoy this more inactive life-style.

(this is a picture of where David went over--look close and you can see 2 little tire prints, against the sky, on the top of the hill)

He still hasn't gone into work, but has been working at home on the computer and on the phone. We try to be quiet during his business calls, but even when he is shut away in a remote room, voices carry! It's all about humility this fall, eh David?

#2--my closest friend here, Angie MacDonald, moved back to the states just a week after our return. She has been a saving-grace for me here in Italy. We will really miss our long, fun Miss Angie and Kenny days. The MacDonald's became family, so we will see more of them, but we miss them.

#3--a pregnant Rebekah. Okay, so we've done this before, but never without Daddy coming home most evenings and taking over so mom can run to the toilet and then to bed. And never with an Isaac--he makes things interesting (kind of like an Eli, but with more night-time sleep issues).

(Isaac loves to play in the bidet!)

We are excited for our new addition--all the males in the family are hoping for a baby girl, so mom has decided to root for the underdog and talk up another boy!

Thank heavens for pretty good little boys. They have jumped right back into life as they know it, full of toy animals, home-made games, wrestling, and hours spent in the huge field of dirt!

I have to say that I don't know what we would do without Eli right now. He has proven to be the greatest of helps with Isaac, most appreciated when mom just needs a rest. Isaac loves him and often wakes up asking where Eli is, "Li? (lie) Li? Li?. . .Li!!!"

(David and I always end up singing, "Li, li, li..pom...li, li, li, li, la-li, li, li ... li, li, li...pom...li, li, li, li, li, li, li, la-la-la-la-li". You may not recognize this without the melody, but it is a great part of one of the great Simon and Garfunkel songs).

Anyway, I've just made my life sound rotten, but we are doing pretty well, all said. As I wrote this, I have easily seen the flip-side of these "trials":

#1--I have had the opportunity to recognize all that David really does for me on a daily basis in his usual, very capable, state.

#2--In Angie MacDonald I have made a life-long friend--the kind that really does only come around very seldomly, and my kids have earned a sort of 3rd grandmother (she spoiled them rotten).

#3--I am hopefully going to have the chance to see another one of Heavenly Father's spirits join our home--always wonderful and interesting! I have seen my boys' sheer joy at the thought of having another brother or sister. When we told them Iwas pregnant, they just kept saying, "Is it really true?" and Eli said, in the sweetest, most tender manner, "I always knew I wanted another brother or sister, but I am just so glad!!"

Life sure is great for stories, and that is what I like the most--good stories to tell.

The Incomparable Grandpa Von

2009-10-04T07:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Dad!

We just recently got back from our yearly visit to the states--a chance to make more memories to live on throughout the year!

Our time was very short with the Callister clan, and my kids were very bummed to have to leave without more adventures with cousins and GRANDPA VON!

Most grandpas are wonderful, but there has always been something extra special about Grandpa Von. He has energy and an adventurous spirit, which helps make him fun, but he also has such a a sweet and thoughtful way. My boys all adore him.

Eli got to live in the same house with Grandpa Von for the first 8 months of his life, and has been hooked ever since--though he has always lived at least 2,000 miles away. Adam and Gabe were won over quickly, and Isaac is following in the grandpa-von-fan-club tradition.

It is easy for me to see why my children adore him, since I have my whole life!

But I thought that I would share a couple of examples of the sweet man that my dad is, and how he stays strong in their hearts and thoughts, even from thousands of miles away.

My dad works for Wells Fargo bank and so my kids have Wells Fargo wagon banks and wallets (we love to sing The Wells Fargo Wagon Is A-comin' Down the Street, from The Music Man).

Well, this year, he sent us a Wells Fargo Calendar. Each page has a couple of Cowboys driving the Wells Fargo Wagon pulled by a large team of horses through different scenery. It is fun on its own, but my dad took it a step further and added words to each image-- drivers exclaiming, horses talking, aliens or bigfoot or a hidden person in the distance making some simple little remark. He uses at least one of the boys' name on each page and they love it! I just have to smile as I picture him at the kitchen table with this calendar in front of him thinking up what to write.

*In case you can't read what he wrote here--the man next to the driver is saying, "Adam, please slow down, you are scaring me!" and one of the horses asks the other, "Why do we have these things over our eyes? I can't see you. Can you see me? Maybe they don't want us visiting with each other."

The other thing that he is good about doing at least a couple times a year is sending notes to my boys in the mail. They love to get the letters from Grandpa Von and read the individual letter to them. So far it has always been written on a notepad stating:

From the desk of ..... Von (though he has added Grandpa on top of the Von)

I keep these notes for the boys and know that they will always be a special reminder of their Grandpa and how he was willing to take time to think of each of them specifically.

These are just a couple examples of my sweet Dad. My heart is so warmed and grateful when I hear my kids praise him. He is a wonderful example of all I dream they will become as men.

My Dad drove to the airport with us when we were heading back to Italy, in case we needed extra help (David was hurt while we were in the states and I thought I might need extra help getting to the plane with the boys). Eli rode in Grandpa's car and stayed pretty close to him until we said good-bye at security.

It was so hard for Eli to say good-bye.

I was emotional, but trying to be the strong and collected mother--with 4 little boys and a husband getting wheelchair service, I felt that I needed to look like I was okay.

Eli did his best to be discreet, but he was sobbing. I could hardly look at him because I just wanted to bawl along-side him. Here was my tender-hearted boy leaving his favorite person on this planet (he loves his parents and brothers, but . . .), knowing it would be a long time until they met again. I was grateful for the man who inspired such a strong adoration, even if it made departure extra hard.

Thanks Dad.

Gabey turns 5!

2009-08-30T05:23:00.000-07:00

Gabey-goo.

sweet thumb-sucking cuddler

Makes mom melt.

I can't believe that he is 5!

Of all my children, he is the one that I would just like to keep in compact form, so I can always have him near me:

-asking to come to the grocery store, when everyone else wants to stay home with Dad.

-telling me I am pretty and he loves me

-ready at any moment to have a story read to him

-climbing into my bed in the morning for some snuggles before starting the day

-making up poetry like:

Once there was a Raccoon and he met a

Ibex and then they met a

Iguanadon and then they met a

Allasaurus and then they met a

Amabeledon and then they met a

Diplodocus and then they met a

Liopleridon and that was the end.
(all real creatures, mostly prehistoric)

The day before his birthday I told him that he just needed to stay 4 because it fits him so well. He let me know that he was going to be 5 (there is something so magical about that whole-hand-age), but he said, "Don't worry, Mom. I will still cuddle you up!"

Gabe's jungle-themed party

Gabe says, "The best thing I got for my birthday was my Ibex, and my favorite thing we did is adventuring to find animals . . .but not real ones, toy ones!"

Beauty through Eli's eyes

2009-08-20T10:16:00.000-07:00

The other day Eli runs into the house exclaiming, "Mom! Mom! You have to see this bird that Gatto killed!"

Now, Gatto (the cat who has adopted us) kills numerous birds, lizards, mice, moles, etc., and loves to leave them on the porch as little gifts. I have seen many, and was in the middle of something, so I was going to decline the new opportunity.

Then Eli went on, "It is the prettiest bird you've ever seen. It is all red with a blue belly."

We don't have birds like that here, so I got up and went outside to see it.

This is what I saw:

It is a pretty ordinary bird--the kind that are always lying dead on the front porch. It is sweet and so I would have felt sad that it was killed, but I wouldn't have thought much more of it, since it is just one of the many little brown birds in the yard.

Eli is color-blind. He wasn't trying to trick me into coming out. He truly saw something beautiful in this simple little bird.

I often wonder what Eli sees and feel sad for lack of color in his world. I am such a color nut--it makes me so happy to see bright, happy colors. But this day I learned a sweet, touching lesson--Eli doesn't see what I see, but maybe sometimes what he sees is better.

That little bird was acknowledged and appreciated by Eli in a way that, perhaps, no one else could appreciate him.

Maybe we should all be a bit more "color-blind" at times.

Thanks, Eli.

Christmas in July

2009-08-02T06:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is now officially August--wow.

This last week--in honor of the end of July, we decided to have Christmas in July. I did this for the women in Relief Society and then for my boys on friday morning.

The boys and I got out our Christmas quilt to sit on while we sang Christmas songs and read our favorite Christmas stories. We made fun snowflakes while the fan blew on us to keep us from sweating. So fun.

There is just something so magical about Christmas time. So just one time a year? I think not.

We listen to Christmas music all year and my favorite lullabies are definitely Away in a Manger and Silent Night (they are so sweet).

I get all happy inside when Gabe picks How the Grinch Stole Christmas for an afternoon movie, or when one of the boys pulls out The First Christmas Tree, or Christmas Oranges, or The Light Of Christmas (love this one), etc. to read on just a normal day of the year. The warm, wonderful feelings that come from these stories are exactly what we need in our everyday lives.

Today we were all home from church (except for David) due to bowel issues 3/5 of us were experiencing. We did church at home--each boy gave a talk in "primary", and we each bore our testimony in "Sacrament meeting". Later we watched The Lamb of God, and The Testaments.

It was so wonderful to ponder Christ's life and the atonement, after talking about the joy of His birth this week.

I am touched each time I watch these films and remember just what He did for each of us. I reminded my children that He truly knows them and loves them--they let me know that they already knew that (what a great gift for them!).

So, no matter what day of the year it is--to each of you a Merry Day-to-remember-Christ-and-to-feel-His-spirit!"

on a side note:

Gabey loves to create crazy creations with our pictures on picnik.com. This is one of his latest--it is actually David, Isaac, and Gabe in the pool behind our house, but Gabe made them into crazy aliens, with a little help from mom (I just followed the instructions given me by him).

He wanted me to share this up-lifting image--maybe not real fitting with today's theme, but . . .

2009-07-26T07:16:00.000-07:00

Life goes by so quickly! I can't believe how often it seems to be Sunday--the week just flies!

I find myself pondering my boys and how they really do get bigger each day. Today in sacrament meeting I looked over at Eli sitting in his plastic chair, leaning down on the electric piano. He just looked so long to me. I was amazed that he is mine.

Right now we do a lot of fort-building, bug-collecting, game-creating, world-drawing, nature-movie-watching (Eli and Adam said that if they could meet any famous person it would be either Nigel Marvin, or David Attenborough--you can tell what they love to watch. They honestly think these are the 2 coolest people in the world. Eli asked if I could get their numbers and call them. He has many things he would like to ask them), and, of course, book-reading (The Hobbit is their new favorite book--though I have had to learn to master using my light-and-happy-voice in reading the scariest parts. This is not as easy as one might think.).

These boys are just . . . curious, little boys. I love it.

I never actually saw the movie, but one of my favorite quotes ever, is found in Finding Neverland:

Little boys should never go to sleep because

they only wake up one day older.

There is nothing more adorable than 4 sleeping boys all cozy in one room,
but it is amazing how days and nights pass, and little children grow into bigger children.

**message to self: Rebekah, enjoy today, because tomorrow is coming fast!

*FYI--In the picture with boys sitting in the window, David is in the room behind them--we do want them to live to see many tomorrows. smile.

The end of my favorite back yard ever!

2009-07-19T04:56:00.000-07:00

I wasn't prepared.

I felt a swelling in my throat as I saw this really cool machine approaching our back yard. I knew that this time would come, and soon, but I dreaded it.

The farmer and machine workers just went about their work, anticipating the end result--the golden grain filling up the waiting truck.

I knew that for Signor Sintoni, it was the sweet result of his efforts.

The men didn't seem to care about the sad good-byes waving from the long stems.

But I noticed.

I cared.

It may sound like I am being dramatic, but honestly it was a very hard thing for me to see.
It isn't all about the Amber Waves of Grain, though truly this is my new favorite ground cover and I dream of a home in the USA that touches a wheat field (corn would be okay, too).

That grain being harvested is a reminder to me that my time here is going to come to a close. This may be the last time in my life that I have a field of grain in my own back yard. We will leave Italy in 2010, and the farmer won't likely plant winter wheat again this year.

It makes one ponder all the things to love (Title of a sweet, sweet book Jen and Jakob gave to Eli when he was born) and miss about this time of my life. Isn't it funny how the hardest things are often also the sweetest in some way (Isaac, for example) ?

To every thing there is a season . . . This has been the season of peaceful beauty, and discovering what is really important to me--what I want my kids to value . . . what I value most myself.

I have felt the power of nature--not in its ability to shake the earth, but in its ability to touch my heart and make me feel closer to our shared creator.

The wonder of empty branch, to budding branch, to blossoming branch, to branch heavy with fruit--all stages are fascinating and beautiful.

When I walk through orchards or passed fields with my boys, I easily bear testimony to them of a Divine Creator. I feel near to Him. In a time when the nearest temple is far away and I can't go as I would like, I am grateful for a peaceful, heavenly place to ponder, remember, and feel.

As I said, there is a season for everything, and after the harvesting of the grain comes many other beautiful things. The peaches and nectarines are ripe, and we can go pick them whenever we want--says Signor Sintoni . . .

the figs are getting bigger . . . the grape vines are full of sour green grapes (which Isaac seems to appreciate more than he should) . . .and the giuggioli are finally showing the tiny green dots that will be deep brown, nutty, mouth-popping fruit this fall. Promises of fig jam, grape juice, and snacking on those strange, crunchy giuggioli.

Yes, there is always something to look forward to in the next season.

Frankly, my boys cheered after the wheat was cut down because they remembered that soon Signor Sintoni will plow that field and it will become the most wonderous of wonderlands--huge clods of dirt with endless play-time possibilities.

Seasons of life, enjoy the one your in.

Our family TRADITIONS--says Eli

2009-07-14T07:12:00.000-07:00

Eli is our golden-hearted, contemplative (with a few other adjectives) child.

The other day we had my friend Angie MacDonald over with Kenny and Bob's boys Caleb (13) and Gavin(11).

That evening, after Family Home Evening, Eli mentioned a conversation he had had with Caleb:

David wasn't home from work yet (they were all waiting for him to get home) and Caleb mentioned how his Dad got up every morning at 6:00am so that he could leave by 7:00am for work. That way he could get home earlier in the evening than Eli's dad did.

Eli said that he had told Caleb that his dad got up at 6:00am, too, but that we had "traditions" like scriptures and prayer and family hug, which we do each morning, so he doesn't leave our house as early.

Eli then looked at David and said,"Dad, Do you think that it is more important that you come home earlier, or that we do our traditions?"

David asked, "Eli, What do you think?"

Eli smiled his sweet knowledgable, face-glowing smile, and said, "I think that it is important that we keep doing our traditions."

It sounds so simple, but I was really touched by this experience, and the way my big/little boy could see the right and good in what we are trying to do with our family. We all want David home earlier in the evening, but I am so grateful for the "traditions" (don't you love his use of that word to describe our routines?) we have, and the gift of this conversation--reminding me that my children (who don't always come smiling to prayer and scripture time) may really be getting it!

Love you, Eli!

Celebrating The U.S. of A.

2009-07-05T08:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had such a great experience celebrating the 4th of July here in Italy.

I had decided a long time ago that I wanted my boys to learn patriotic songs and stories that we could share with our friends on the 4th of July.

The whole month of June we read stories, learned songs, and memorized some things that represent our country. My mom gave us a book a few years ago called The American Story (highly recommend it!) and we read stories from it every morning. The boys loved it (and so did mom).

The month of June flew by, and soon it was time to invite some of our American friends over for a little program and BBQ. I knew we would come across a bit cheesy (yah, that's just the way I am), but I figured if we backed it all up with good food, it would turn out great. This was our program:

July 4, 2009
*Flag Ceremony and Pledge: cub scouts: Eli and Adam Moss
*sing: My Country ‘Tis of Thee
*Moss boys recite The Preamble to the Constitution :We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
*sing: America the Beautiful
*Story of Uncle Sam: Gabe as Uncle Sam
*Thanking our Military/leaders
*Sing: The Star-Spangled Banner
*sing: Yankee Doodle

It ended up being such a great experience. We shared things we had learned, but we also heard from two of our guests who had served in the military and were touched by their feelings about the service they gave their country.

I read some of Uncle Ray's (my dad's uncle) autobiography--his P.O.W. experiences. We did this just before we sang the National Anthem and I was really touched by the power of that song, because of what it represents.

Next time you sing The Star Spangled Banner, really ponder the words and what they mean.

Earlier this year I taught it to my boys. As I tried to help them learn those words--not easy lyrics--I was overcome with what is happening in that first verse. My children loved the rocket's red glare and the bombs bursting in air, but they also know that those things are mentioned in the song because they helped light up the sky to reveal that the flag was still there, giving hope and courage to the men fighting for liberty!

I am so grateful to be a citizen of the United States of America--for the sacrifices many have made to get freedom and to maintain it. We are one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. May we all do our part to keep it that way!

ANGIE MACDONALD

2009-06-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

This last Friday I had a great experience with my sweet, wonderful friend,

Angie MacDonald--without whom I would have gone crazy here in Italy long ago.

We had a girls night out. It was so fun.
We laughed as my van's car alarm went off when we tried to exit it, in the middle of the Cervia market place--one of those miraculous times when you find a spot that is front and center. We got back in it laughing and frantically looking through the manual for what to do to get it off. When it finally stopped itself, we chanced it and tried to exit once more. . .yup. beep, beep, beep! We laughed even harder and seriously just drove off with it blaring until we came to a more secluded parking lot. After searching and reading, and one more beeping episode, we got it all figured out.

We went to dinner and talked, sharing our thoughts and concerns for our boys.
We went shopping, trying to find the best deals.
We ate gelato and listened to a free outdoor concert.
We bought cute chinese art from a lady painting them on the side of the street.

It was a full and fabulous evening. But it didn't end there.

I had been feeling for some time that I should give Angie a Book of Mormon. I was a bit nervous because this is a woman whose friendship means so much to me, and who is grounded in her religion--a woman of great faith and Christ-like attributes.
Friday morning I had prepared a letter explaining the experiences I had had which let me know that now was the time to give her a Book of Mormon. I also wrote my testimony inside the Book of Mormon I had for her. I knew that my best chance for a positive experience would be that night, when we were together, but without the kids.
I hate that I was nervous, but I was.
I waited until we arrived back at my house (around 11:30pm). When I stopped the car I told her I had something for her and proceeded to read the letter I had written. Part way through it I expressed my desire to give her a Book of Mormon--the part I dreaded reading (thank you, Satan). I read it all and she just hugged me, saying how much she appreciated our friendship. Then we talked about faith and how essential it is in this life.
She paused after a few minutes and asked if the letter was for her. I said that it was and handed her the Book of Mormon with it. I knew she would be kind about it all, because she is like that, but I didn't know what she would think. Her comment was, "I have always been curious about this book." Then she held it to her and said she would read it everyday. I don't know if she will, but I can't tell you what a beautiful thing it was for me to get that response. She noticed that I had written in it and asked me to read that, too. I did, and after she just hugged me again.
The night ended--no awkwardness.
I felt a surge of joy at the decision I had made and followed through with. I don't know what she will do with that book, but she knows how I feel about it. And the whole experience confirmed my love for the full gospel of Jesus Christ. I am so grateful to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

*p.s. I taught another lessons in RS today, and it went even better than before--I understood almost every comment, and even went off of my script a bit. yeah

What we've done this last week--photo version

2009-06-19T02:51:00.000-07:00

Life is full and busy. We love it, but haven't had time to blog it and still don't have much, so I am uploading some of the photos I've taken and presenting them as a brief explanation of the goings-on at our house.

(we had Kenny, here for the weekend so Angie and Bob could have a few days in Cinque Terre--he is the other boy in a couple of the pics)

Fun times!

DAY TRIPS--Vinci and Murano (Venice)

2009-06-06T02:44:00.001-07:00

We have decided to try and get the most out of our last year (pretty sure) in Italy.
This past week our plan was put into action. We took two separate day trips.
On Monday we headed to Vinci, childhood home of the famous
Leonardo Da Vinci (his name actually means Leanardo from Vinci).

We had studied a bit about him in the last year--such an interesting man with an inquisitive, constant mind. We read about his childhood in Vinci. He roamed the countryside observing and asking innumerable questions of his young uncle. He was surrounded by nature and her curiosities and he wanted to know about them all.

The drive was over 2 hours and we didn't stay long, but it is fun to say we have been there.

First we stopped by a museum filled with models created from his notes. We couldn't photograph inside, which was kind of a bummer. I had printed out pictures of some of the designs or the models and, on the way there, the boys tried to guess what they might be. They did some pretty good guessing. In the museum we checked their answers with the real thing.

Next we drove out a couple miles to the house where he grew up. I would guess that much of the land looks exactly as it did when he was there over 500 years ago. It is still way out in the country, surrounded by many olive groves and vineyards. I didn't have to use my imagination to picture the joy of discovery he experienced on this hill, since I had 3 little boy-examples in front of me climbing through the trees and grasses--yes, they were pretending to be dinosaurs most of the time, which he likely didn't do, but . . .

The 5 hours of driving that day weren't all bliss and the time there wasn't so particularly phenominal, but for me it was a needed reminder of the importance of the simple things. This town is (and was) so small and seemingly insignificant. Had Leonardo stayed there all his days, he may never have been known at all. Yet, it was this simple beginning that opened the way for that great mind. He was allowed to fully experience the world around him and his curiosity and questions seem to have been encouraged. I look at my boys and know that, right now, they are getting some of that same opportunity--though there may be times I'm not so great at indulging them in every query.

I am sometimes unsure of exactly how to do the homeschooling I feel so strongly about. Am I giving them what they need? They don't read as well as their peers. They haven't memorized all their multipication tables. . .

Being in Vinci reminded me that there is a time and season for all things. I am trying to give my children the chance to fully enjoy each of those seasons. Each of my boys has a great mind. I don't know that I necessarily want a Da Vinci in my family--he was pretty odd--but I do think that when the push and desire comes from them (inspired by a educating atmosphere) they can achieve all that they need and more--certainly better than if I pull them along based on my desire for them to appear educated.

Anyway. . . (you can tell what my focus is right now)!

The next day trip was on Thursday. We headed up to Venice (another 2-3 hours each way) to visit the island of Murano--where the famous Venician glass is made. We learned a few months ago that the Ancient Phoenicians were the first people to blow glass, and we wanted to see it done. Venice is one of the places where you can find people doing it every day.

We drove most of the way, then hopped on a train, then boarded a water taxi and headed out to Murano.

Doesn't that all sound romantic?! It was pretty fun.

The glass demonstration lasted all of 10 minutes, but it was cool. Afterward, we enjoyed exploring the island a bit.

I got some fun pictures of the boys and David walking along the canals.

I loved the fact that we were all there together in Venice just to see something we had learned about reading our Story of the World. A fun, pretty place to have the experience.

The boys loved looking at all the cool glass animals--especially Gabriel. They also really enjoyed the time spent on the water taxi, watching the water and other boats.

Then, home again, home again, jiggity-jig!

Adventures--we sound cool, anyway, eh?!

**by-the-way, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAN!!

34 for David!

2009-06-05T12:46:00.001-07:00

David turned 34 on the 3rd of June.

To help celebrate this great day the boys and I all created our own party hats.

We kept quoting Dr Suess,

"Now do you like my hat?"

"I do. I like that party hat!"

In keeping with the Dr Suess feeling we decided to make Daddy's hat with lots of interesting things on it. We decided on an underwater theme, complete with gold fish, worm, sunken treasure, and even a whale blowing out the top (which, unfortunately got cut off in the picture).

What man could ask for more? hee, hee

The boys also gave him the gift of song. They sang My Daddy is my Favorite Pal, but surprized him with a second verse they invented, with a little help from me:

Our Daddy's name is David Moss, and he really likes to play.

It's volleyball or basketball, Stratego, hip-hor-ray!

He knows the laws of Physics and he makes the airplanes fly.

When he comes home, we jump for joy,

'Cause he is the greatest guy!!!

Eli came up with the physics part. I asked him to tell me something he liked about his Dad and he responded, "He knows physics." It is true! You wouldn't believe how often a good understanding of physics is needed to properly answer Eli's questions (I'm hoping to find a Physics for dummies to study, so Eli will think I'm cool, too). I tell ya, it pays to be a nerd! hee, hee

I sure do love my hottie nerd! Happy Birthday, Mr. Poppins!!

COLORS!

2009-05-16T05:38:00.000-07:00

The world is turning summer--which I don't really love, And everything is becoming colorful--
I love color!

I think green is one of the greatest colors and so this year for my annual mother's day family photo we did it in front of the grape-vines on the side of our house (the neighbor's grass and potato plants are in the ground behind that). We didn't have a photographer that day, just a timer, so the pictures weren't perfect, but still fun with lots of pretty green!

Although all my men love pretty flowers, they aren't nearly as important as an afternoon practicing their volleyball technique--David is loving the boys loving volleyball, and they really do. I love to watch them play, especially when I can see one of my all-time favorite colors in the background. Check out the red roses. . .. . .and the yellow roses. I can't take credit for any of these, and probably wouldn't be one to try and grow roses all around my yard, but it is fun to see the large blooms of color!!

Even Isaac can appreciate these big dark pink petals. Of course, he spent most of his time ripping them to shreds, but I didn't stop his pleasurful task. The lawn ended up with sweet pink, yellow and white petal confetti, as did the cat.

Every day holds challenges (whether it's planning my lesson for Relief Society in Italian--new calling; doing chores without complaining--this can apply to Eli, Adam, Gabriel, and mom; or being a 17 month old who really wants to give your 4 year old brother a ride in the grass on a large toy dump truck). I am so grateful for the beauty that color (like these yellow, pink, and orange flowers) adds to my life and how it can make those challenges all melt away for awhile.

. . .

So, how do I feel about the color GOLD? In jewelry it can be lovely, or pictured in a pot at the end of the rainbow--thrilling, but as a pair of 8 year old boy's shoes?!!

Yes, it was time to buy some new shoes for Adam. We went to a local store. Eli had his shoe graph chart in hand to keep him busy, and Gabe pushed Isaac in the stroller, while I "helped" Adam chose. These were the ones:

I tried not to interfere too much in the decision, though the words, "are you sure that is what you want?" left my mouth more than once. I decided that since we are in Italy and there really isn't anyone to mock (except for David and me and we are striving to supress). . . we may as well go for it! When Eli finally joined us again at the store and saw the shoes he exclaimed, "I've never had gold shoes! Adam is always the lucky one!" Okie-dokie then!

I have gotten more pleasure out of this golden purchase than I would have thought. How can one help but smile when they look at these and the obvious pride of their owner?!

We often go walking through meadows of POPPIES

2009-05-10T07:47:00.000-07:00

One of my mom's favorite flowers has always been poppies.
She always grew a few in our front yard.

When we moved here to Italy, I was blown away by the wild poppies that grow everywhere in the late spring and summer. They are sprinkled in with weeds and even pop up in a field of wheat--love the view of a lone red flower in the middle of a field of green wheat (another natural reminder that we need to stand for who we are and what we believe in, even if we are alone in doing so).

So, this year the boys and I made a little change to the sweet primary song, I Often Go Walking:

We often go walking in meadows of poppies,

And we gather armfuls of poppies for you.

We gather the poppies the whole meadow over.

Dear Grandma, all poppies remind us of you!

*We think of you every time we see these pretty red-orange flowers,and that is often!

We love you, Grandma!

And we love you, mom!!

Our cute little stinker--Isaac!

2009-05-06T05:47:00.001-07:00

You see 20 garbage bags pulled and piled, a bag of potatoes (you don’t see the potatoes with cute little bites taken out of them, but they do exist), and a good length of paper towels rolled out along the floor.

What did I see?

5 whole minutes without this sad face clinging to my legs while I did the dishes—priceless.

Isn’t he cute—even with dispair upon his face?!

There isn’t much mess that isn’t worth that bit of happy baby time while I accomplish something.

I did, however, have to draw the line this afternoon at EATING A DRIED DEAD SNAIL COVERED IN A HUNDRED LITTLE ANTS!

I was reading a book on the porch while Isaac and the boys played outside. He walked out of my view for a few seconds. I asked Eli what Isaac was doing. He looked over and said, “He is eating something.” (of course). That was quickly followed with a cry of, “It’s a snail, mom!!”
I am known for allowing crazy things to continue while I run and grab the camera for a photo, but even I couldn’t justify it this time. I jumped up, ran over, pulled the huge mouthful of snail-in-shell out of his ant-covered mouth and just grossed out for a minute. I guess that dead, sun-baked snail covered in protein rich ants could be a sort of delicacy, but. . .

Cute little stinker!

ELI'S FIRST DECADE!

2009-04-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that Eli is so big! He is very excited to be in the double-digits--he will be in them for the next 90 years, wow! Sounds like the end of childhood--or not, but I still thought it would be fun to remember Eli's first decade through some of our words (mine and his), written down over the years. Rebekah's journal, August 15, 1999:
This test was telling me that I was pregnant. There is a creature forming inside of me. I must admit that I felt a lot more fear than excitement. I want a baby but knowing I am going to have one is a bit overwhelming and freaky. . . I know that David will be a great Dad, but I'm going to be a "mom" to someone. Ahhh!
March 7, 1999:
I love to lay down, feel the movements and wonder just who it is in there waiting to come out and make itself known. These are the times when I get slightly anxious to have it arrive so I can know if it is a boy or girl and see this person who is a part of David and me.

April 21, 1999:
Just a few more good and intense pushes and my baby was born. At 11:20 am David exclaimed, so all could hear, "That's my boy!"

July 19, 1999:
Eli laughed he first real laugh yesterday while David was playing with him. It was so adorable and fun to hear (David was excited to be the catalyst). July 2, 2000 (1 year old):
About a week ago Eli started saying his own cute version of "please" (more like, "bee" sometimes with an "s" at the end, sometimes not). It really is adorable, though he says it over and over when he wants something, and gets extra frustrated when he can't have the thing he is so properly asking for! November 4, 2000 (1 ½ ):
Eli has started a new game of free-falling off the couch. We are generally there to catch him, but . . . The other day I was on the phone facing out the living room window. I said good-bye and turned around just in time to see Eli land face-first in the floor. He ended up with a bloody nose and a split lip. But less than an hour later did almost the same thing. . .We have a box of popsicles that I only really give him when his lip has been smashed and is bleeding, and they are going rather quickly!

March 8, 2001 (almost 2):
I love being a mom. I’m not always the most patient or sweetest, but I love watching Eli as he advances from one cute thing to the next. I love to watch him run away smiling as he awaits David’s chase, and remember that it was not all that long ago that he couldn’t even walk. I love to listen to him try to say new words, and ponder actually sharing a full conversation with him someday. I love his sweet hugs and kisses, and hope that I will always be able to show him that I love him even when he doesn’t want this kind of affection as much.March 18, 2001:
Eli was fascinated with the baby in my arms and we told him he was his baby brother (he didn’t get it). He would call him, “Baby Brother” but we could not get him to call him “Adam”. I asked Eli if he wanted to touch Adam’s toes. I thought for sure he would jump at the chance, but instead he looked at the baby and said a quiet, “no.” He looked at Adam as if he were some odd creature.

June 27, 2001 (2):
I was trying to get Eli dressed one morning. He kept trying to walk away while I was doing up his pants. I was getting frustrated with him and said sternly, “Eli, look at me!” He turned around, looked at my face, and said in the sweetest voice, “Beautiful!” I about died. I had never heard him say that word before. I was putty in his hands for the moment and thought, this kid knows what he is doing! November 6, 2001 (2 ½):
He still comments often on the experiences he had with his Grandpa Von, one of which includes accidently squishing a little frog he was hopping with. When mentioning this moment Eli will shake his head and somberly say, “That frog not hop anymore.”

2001/2:
Eli language:
cucumbers--tootootumbers
watermelon--watermelemon
rice krispies--snackle, crapple, pops
outside--ow-twide
loves to say, "Back in a jippy (jiffy)!" From Eli's childhood journal, April 23, 2002 (3):
There Eli stood, covered with yellow paint! He had it on his face a bit, covering the front of his clothes, and his hands and feet were completely saturated with it. We went down the stairs. I was dreading what I might see. . .The carpet is ruined and some walls need to be repainted. The toys need to be scraped off and the sofa cover turned over, but . . .David and I decided Eli probably had more fun than he could ever remember having!

March 2003 (almost 4):
Adam hits Eli on the head with a book. Eli cries out, and so Adam apologizes. Eli looks at and him and declares, "That was my favorite head!"July 2003 (4):

Eli comes up stairs holding a boxed clock he is sure he wasn't supposed to find. When he feels he is caught, he innocently says, "You didn't think I would find this box, but kids have special eyes for these things!" October 2003 (4 ½):
David is out of town. Derid is in town checking out a dental school. It is stake conference and President Monson will be attending. We sat in the chapel (we never do this for stake conference). Pres Monson enters the room, and everyone arises. I told Eli to look for Pres. Monson. Eli couldn't see very well. Derid and I try to point him out. Finally Eli exclaimed very loudly, "Oh, is he the one with the big nose?!" All Derid could say was, "Yah, I guess so." Derid and I quietly laughed for quite some time after that one.

December 8, 2003:
The other day we were delivering Thanksgiving treats to some neighbors and Eli saw two mini skateboards in the yard. He said, "Mom, I will take just one of them!" I explained to him that it would be stealing since the boards didn't belong to him. He was dejected but he left them and came with us. A few minutes later Eli says, "Mom, I wish I was a burglar!" I asked him, "Why?" His response, "Because burglars get to steal things!"

December 2003:

Eli and David had been playing dodgeball. David came upstairs for a break, but Eli got impatient, wanting to play more. David says, "I just have to think for a minute." Eli says, "You can think while you play!" David, "I can't think when I'm playing cause I'm having too much fun!" Eli, "I can think while I play! I think, 'If dad runs faster, I won't be able to get him, but if I run faster I will get him!'"

December 2003:
One day I decided to ask him to tell me a story. He said, "I'll tell you a sad story."

I responded, "But, I want a happy story."

Eli, "Happy with a sad ending?"

Mom, "No, a happy ending!!"

Eli, "Okay. A giant with smelly feet clomps on the houses and the cars and all the people run away!..."

Mom, "What about the happy?"

Eli, "Okay. Then they all fall in love!"

March 2004 (almost 5):
Eli has another talk in primary. He has clammed up both times before and not said anything--we gave the talk for him. This time he did it! David was sitting in the back and both of us were very excited. Afterward he ran back, hugged David and asked, "Dad, Are you so proud of me?" He was so pleased with himself. He turned to me a bit later and said, "Mom, is the Holy Ghost telling me that I did a good job?" It was so sweet!

May 2004 (5):
"Mom, Why did Heavenly Father make shoes so that we can't really wiggle our toes?"

May:

Eli has been rolling his eyes up every time he gets reprimanded for something. David asked him one day, after he did it, "Why do you do that when we talk to you? What does it mean?" Eli responds, "I'm just looking up at heaven and saying a little prayer!" February 2005 (almost 6):
I asked Eli the other day what color his future wife's hair should be. First he decided her name would be Suzy-Bell, then he said she would have "golden hair and golden eyes."

February 2005:

Eli was playing in the playroom one week-day morning. I let him know that it was time to do his jobs (make the bed and get dressed) before school. I said once he was done with that stuff he could play more. He looked at me in a fed-up mannor and asked, "Mom, why do you want to ruin my life?"

September 2005 (6 ½):
David is putting Eli's brand new bike together. It is taking quite awhile to do. Eli tries so hard to be patient and actually does a pretty good job. When it is very close to being done, Eli gets very excited and says to David, "I've only been waiting like 300 miles per hour!!"

October 2005:
Eli was saying his night-time prayer (it was hard to get him to do it that night). This was his prayer: Heavenly Father, . . . bless mom that she will be pretty as a rose! [pause] Heavenly Father, sometimes it is hard to pray when I am onery, but I just do it to get it over with. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. December 2005:
I asked Eli what his favorite thing to do was. He responded, "To make other people's beds and put out clothes for them, and to write menus for breakfast." Many mornings he gets up before the rest of us, gets ready, goes downstairs and writes a breakfast menu. He will write down the cereals we have, along with other things like waffles. Then he writes down our drink choices. He will make one for each of us and we are supposed to sign the bottom of them.

January 2006:
On New years day Eli was laying next to me. He says, "Mom, my wish never comes true." I ask what wish (thinking of all his Christmas gifts). He responded, "That you will teach me at home." I wasn't expecting that response and was touched by his sincerity.

November 3, 2006 (7 ½):
This is conversation Eli and David had while making dinner--I quickly grabbed a pen to write it down:
Eli,"Before you can be a Dad, all Dads should know how to do it. Like:
First--don't leave sharp knives out
Second--don't leave the oven on
Third--don't let anyone take your son (except family like grandpas and uncles)
Forth--If your son is in the water and is going to drown, jump in and save him
Five--love your kids
Six--kiss you wife and cuddle her
And the one, most important thing, Love Your Family! It is an important part of being a dad. You have to love your wife enough to marry her."
*This was all said very sincerely while Eli paced around the kitchen.

December 31, 2006:
All of us were in the kitchen this afternoon. Eli's wheels were turning. . .
Eli, "Dad, How can you and mom be married just 9 years, when me plus Gabriel equals 9 years, and that doesnt include Adam?! Me plus Adam would be 12 years, so how can you only be married 9 years?" *Love how little minds try to make sense of the world.

October 2007 (8 ½):
Eli has been saying very eloquent prayers lately. Here is how today's began, "Heavenly Father, we sit in these chairs ready to pour out our hearts to you, and I think you know what I mean by that. . ."

November 29, 2007:
Mom's words to 8 year old Eli:
You are my golden-hearted child! Life isn't easy but your desire to be good and make good choices is strong.
You are going to be a great someone, my Eli! I'm so excited to see you grow and watch what you will become. No matter what you choose, we will love you and be proud that you are our son. Our Eli-the-great-and-powerful-boy!

December 14, 2007:
"Mom, normally at Grandma Moss' they give us OtterPops. I ask someone for an otter pop, and when they are gone I ask someone else and they usually give me one. It's called 'Tricking for Treats' and it usually works!"
*When I reminded him of this statement recently, he reacted, "Oh. I told you that? Dang."

Spring 2008 (9):

Eli was saying a prayer. He thanked Heavenly Father for his, “mother who carried us in her body and takes care of us every day. . .And for Dad, who provided the sperm.”

Fall 2008 (9 ½):
This is a talk Eli gave in Primary on Prayer--told in his words:

Once upon a time me and my grandpa were diamond hunting inthe desert of Utah. My grandpa said he would drive up a little ways, then walk down to meet me.

So, he drove up a little ways. After awhile I couldn’t see him anymore and started to worry. I was walking in his direction when I started to cry.

I stopped to pray because I was scare to be alone. When I said Amen, I started walking again.

After a couple of steps I saw a yellow truck. It came closer and closer. For a minute I was nervous, but I felt a warm feeling that they were good people. They stopped beside me and asked why I was crying.

“I lost my grandpa. Have you seen a green car and a man with a hat?”They said, “yes.”

I said, “That’s my grandpa.”

They let me hop into their truck and drove me to my grandpa.

I got out of the truck and ran to my grandpa and hugged him. He apologized and said thta he didn’t mean to go so far and make me scared.

I know that Heavenly Father answers prayers.

Nov-Dec 2008:
Words by Uncle Josh after trip to visit us in Italy:
It was good to have these nice little breaks from our vacationing on our vacation and spend time with Eli.

This kid has a knack for teaching me things I didn’t know, such as the Largest dinosaur to ever walk the earth, his bite strength, his attack potential, his defense, his trickery, his weight, and every other thing about him or any other dinosaur that ever breathed a wisp of air on this planet.

I told him “You need to write a book about it”. Was I ever floored when he said “ I DID” and then proceeded to show me the book he wrote, complete with an “About the author” on the back cover.

That kid is going places!! His brain churns so fast, that whenever he learns to catch up to it there could be a Super-Nova type event that will change the very world… 20 cents Eli, if you can tell me what a Super Nova is…(inside joke between me and Eli).. how much money did I end up owing you??

Eli David Moss, we love you and are so very proud of you! You’ve done a lot of living in these 10 years. We are excited to see what you do with the rest of your double-digits!

Joshua Von Callister sure is getting old!

2009-04-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

I have had one brother my whole life--the only sibling of mine which preceeded me to this earth. Josh. What can I say, there is just something special about him. He is only 18 months older and has always been years less mature (hee, hee), but I loved him from day one--there were days I didn't really like him, but I always felt a strong connection with him.

The older we get the more I enjoy him and am often in awe of him. I hated being just the grade behind him in elementary school because he was always the smartest kid! He certainly hungers after knowledge. I want to be more like him when I grow up!

We sure have come a long way, my brother!

I love you, Josh!

A get away to The Netherlands

2009-04-13T03:24:00.000-07:00

We have some really sweet and wonderful friends, the MacDonalds. They insisted that we take a long weekend away and leave our kids with them. The kids begged us to agree, and so, we did.

We headed to The Netherlands, a.k.a. Holland.

We had not been on a real vacation without the kids ever--I know we came out to Italy to house-hunt, but that was a loaded trip with jet lag, too much purpose, and reality. This was all hand-holding, garden-strolling, cheese-tasting, windmill-charming, wooden-shoe-pondering, museum-lingering, canal-cruising, enjoyment.

I went to enjoy the tulips at the Keukenhof gardens and windmills, and I sure did. It was so charming and beautiful. However, I was also pleasantly surprised by Amsterdam.

We visited the Rijksmuseum, full of famous originals by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and others--I just allowed myself to soak it each beautiful painting. There was the most angelic-sounding accapella choir performing there that day and I left that museum feeling much edified in the arts.

The next day we visited the Anne Frank house. Wow. I had read her diary in school, but will certainly be re-visiting it soon with my boys. It was overwhelming to ponder all the events in the last few years of her life--to walk through the rooms where she and her family lived for 2 years before they were discovered. We saw a filmed interview with her father about when he read her diary for the first time--he was the only survivor of his family. I got that ache in my throat and tears filled my eyes as I listened to him speaking about his child.
There was a quote on the wall as we left which reminded us that we mourn more for this one little girl than for the thousands like her who were victims in this aweful ordeal but that it may be better that way, because if we could really know each individual face and story it would be too devastating (not the exact quote, but you get the idea). David and I were both deeply moved by this experience.

We drove to Den Haag (government city) and passed some neat buildings, though my favorite part of the drive was when we turned into some random neighborhoods and just drove by the charming houses. Many of them have the old-fashioned reed roofs, so sweet-looking.

It was a wonderful time. We are so appreciative of Angie and Bob for offering to watch the boys so we could do it--the boys felt that they were also on vacation. When I asked Gabe, "What was the funnest thing you did at Angie's house?" he responded, "I don't know cause it was all so fun!"
Isaac did better for her than he does for me. I'm so glad things were good on their end, because it was a great time for David and me!

Baptism for Adam

2009-03-25T08:44:00.001-07:00

March 21 2009 was a great day in the life of Adam Von Moss.

He was baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

After the baptism he wanted to remain inside the font and swim in the warm water--

he was beaming with joy.As I helped him dry off and get dressed he said, "Mom, why do I feel so warm?"
He knew the answer and smiled so big when I grinned at him.

He seemed to spill over with happiness the rest of that day.

Sure do love that silly, sweet boy!

Remembering--the last 11 years in a nutshell

2009-03-15T08:24:00.000-07:00

A member of the Relief Society Presidency asked me to do a little write-up on my life since marriage. It was to be a sort of time-line of major events. I thought I would post this simplified version of my life. Here goes:

The last 11 years:

*27 December 1997--David and I got married. I was young, but sure I was making the right choice.
*23 April 1999--We graduated from BYU —Eli was born on 21 April 1999. Being a mom for the first time was scarey, but exciting. * January 2000--we moved across the United States to Connecticut (my first time being so far away from my family). This was a challenge for me—I cried the whole plane-ride out.
*November 2000--After living in CT for just 10 months I found out I had cancer (Hodgkins Lymphoma). I was 23 years old and 4 months pregnant with Adam at the time. We worried about our baby (Adam), but our ward took good care of us and my mother flew out to help with 1 year old Eli for a few months.

*11 March 2001--Adam was born. He was beautiful and healthy. Our parents and siblings took turns coming out to help us that fall and summer--flying out for a week at a time. We decided that being sick wasn’t so bad if it meant that we got to spend time with our family!

*August 2001--I finished chemotherapy and life was good. We enjoyed our boys, and grew to love Connecticut more and more.

*Autumn 2002--the cancer returned and I had to do many tests and have stronger chemotherapy. I was told I would not be able to have more children after this chemotherapy was done. I was devastated.

*January 2003--for 2 weeks I stayed in the hospital and could not see my children. My mom stayed with me, David’s mom took care of my children, and David worked, went to school, worried, and visited me. I missed those boys so much!

*2003--I really enjoyed my little family, and just living life. Most days I wished I could get an energy-transfusion from Eli, but life was happy.

*January 2004--I was surprized to find out that I was pregnant. Gabriel, our miracle baby, was born 28 August 2004. He was in my arms for almost the whole first year of life—I was just so glad to have him.
*Spring 2005--David finally finished all his night school, yeah! He worked with the program in Italy and mentioned that a position would be opening soon. What did I think? AHHH! It was up to me whether or not to go.

*Summer 2005--we had another cancer scare, but it turned out to be nothing. That was when I knew that we are truly meant to go to Italy--I cried and cried (refer to moving to CT above--what a cry-baby). I had fallen in love with Connecticut and was very comfortable there. I didn’t desire the adventure of going to Italy, or any other country, but I felt very strongly that it was Heavenly Father’s plan for our family.

*August 2006--We moved to Cesena, Italy. The first 6 months were extremely difficult. Each day life improved a bit, as I became more familiar with people and the way of life here.

*2007/2008 year--The boys went to Italian school . Their Italian improved and they enjoyed it, for the most part. I still had Gabriel home with me during the day, and I was pregnant when the school year began—I had plenty to keep me busy until the boys arrived home for lunch!

*November 2007--I was in the hospital because I had to deliver my baby early. It was frustrating not to understand everything that the doctors and nurses were trying to explain to me. David understands, but had to take care of the boys and couldn’t be with me often. I think my Italian improved a bit during my stay.

*4 December 2007--Isaac Warner arrived . He was tiny, but beautiful. He grew quickly. Wow, another boy! Another miracle!

*2008-- This language! I can understand quite a bit of it, but I can't say what all I would like, and have decided that I will likely not ever be really fluent. This was frustrating, but things were pretty good. I was loving the peaceful surroundings of my home out in the country more and more.

*2008/2009--I decided not to send my children back to school. I had felt for some time that I should home-school them. Things were okay at school, and I wondered if I will go crazy, but I felt I must follow my heart.

*March 2009--Life is challenging, but so very good. I know I am blessed. I am living my dream (with a few twists here and there). I have a practically perfect husband, 4 handsome, energetic, curious boys, and the joy and peace that comes with knowing and living the true gospel of Jesus Christ. With the Holy Ghost as my guide, I can make the right choices for my family. Certainly God knows better than I do what is best, so I will try to trust Him.

ADOMIOUS SUPREMIOUS--Happy 8th Birthday!!

2009-03-11T02:15:00.000-07:00

Our sweet little Adam is just getting too old! Eight years old today.

Long legs, perminant teeth, striving for indepedence (at least the right to not cut or comb his hair, and to wear shorts no matter what the weather), . . .

Where did my squishy little baby go?

Well, luckily he is still cuddly, sweet, and charming as ever. He is also artistic, loves costumes (last year he wanted to be a cowboy for his birthday and this year it is a Roman Soldier), and is able to appreciate beauty. He gets angry and will scowl at me, but that is easily turned into a smile and a hug of repentence.

Adam is funny and loves funny things. He has always laughed at movies in a way that makes it so enjoyable to watch with him. For a few years it was Winnie The Pooh Search for Christopher Robin--he would giggle at all the simple sillies. He loves The Ghost and Mr. Chicken--his laughter as Don Knots tries to karate chop the tree is worth the rewind over and over. The kids just recently watched The Court Jester. Adam laughed almost to the point of tears at the final sword fight scene--everyone laughs, but he just cracks up. I love the sound of his contageous laugh.

Adam is such an important part of our little family! We are so grateful to have him with us. We love you, our sweet little Adam Von!!

*this year he asked for a shield cake with 2 swords crossing behind it. He decorated the shield himself:

Spring is so great!

2009-03-08T10:43:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love spring?!

We had some gorgeous weather here for a few days and the boys and I took full advantage of it. It was so fun to see the little sweet flowers and notice some buds starting to form on fruit trees.

I've said it before, but I must say again that I just love the area surrounding my house here.

It is so serene and full of the beauties of nature.

Our backyard is full of green winter wheat and it is gorgeous.

It also had its share of good, wholesome dirt.

Isaac just had to experiment to find out if the brown stuff tastes as good as it looks.

No, I didn't stop him. Instead I got before and after shots.

There is also plenty of adventure around us for the big boys.

They thought that it was a pretty great afternoon when mom decided they could get down into the ditches and just slop around.

They slid down the muddy sides and filled their rubber boots with water.

They sloshed all the way home, smiling, and laughing.

This is the stuff every little boys memories should be made of--though I'm not necessarily going to okay it for every walk we take.

Those crazy Americans!

Wise but Harmless

2009-03-05T05:33:00.000-08:00

I read about Ammon and King Lamoni in the BoM this morning. I was really struck with the statement made after King Lamoni thinks Ammon is a God and is willing to do whatever he desires of him. It says that Ammon was wise, but harmless. King Lamonie would have done anything that Ammon asked, anything (rewind a year or so and think of the kinds of desires Ammon would have had, though at that time he wouldn't have had the power of God to help him). All Ammon asks the King to do is to listen to him while he tells him about God, the scriptures, and the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I decided that my desire for my children is that they grow into men who are wise, but harmless: Wise in education and most importantly in the knowledge of truth and goodness. Harmless in that their desires will always be for the good of others and themselves--that they will show the true love of Christ, by loving all mankind.
Sounds good, huh?
I think I needed to be reminded of the kind of education and wisdom that is truly most important. Obviously we all want to learn as much as we can while on this earth, but the most important thing for my children to understand is the Plan of Salvation and their role in it. Everything else is just bonus (it will be fun to have a lot of bonus material as well, of course).

RANDOM THOUGHTS on a Sunday afternoon

2009-03-01T05:20:00.000-08:00

Do you ever just not feel as clever as all those other bloggers? Surely my life is no less eventful and my brain no less filled with thoughts and wonderings. However, my thoughts rarely come in eloquent and inspiring river flows--mine may be more like large puddles being connected by just the tiniest of trickles. Here goes...

Today I had an Alice moment--Lewis Carroll's Alice who gives herself very good advice, but very seldom follows it.

We drove 2 cars to church today so the kids and I came home right after the 3 hour block instead of staying a long time waiting for David to finish up with his meetings. The boys wondered why daddy always stays after church for meetings and I reminded them that he is fulfilling his calling. I said that we need to help him do his calling by not complaining when he needs to go to meetings during the week or when we stay after church for a long time waiting for him. I reminded them that we are so blessed to have a Dad who honors his priesthood and is able to bless us and the lives of others in this way. I know the truth of these statements and feel them, but, at times, I too struggle with happily sustaining. Something to work on, eh?

Animals in the house--pets--why do I want one? Do I? The cat is looking at me through the window right now, wondering why I won't let him in the house. This is the cat who just kept coming back and now is a part of our family, whether we like it or not. After a few nasty markings of territory in the kitchen, David and I decided that he wasn't allowed inside the house again, at least until he is neutered.

Adam asked for a kitten for his birthday--You know that they grow up and become cats like the one you already have? Yeah, but kittens are just so cute. Uh-huh. (I don't think he will be surprized when he gets a stuffed one instead--maybe we will stuff the one we already have, J/K).

Tired babies fight sleep. Tired moms can't sleep. Growing boys are never tired--just awake, or asleep (Dreamy!).

I just finished reading The Man in the Iron Mask by Dumas. I'm left in a funk. True, I enjoyed the portrayal of chivalry, honor, friendship, the bond of a father and son--all displayed by the heros in our book. However, battles, open infedelity, and ultimately the man in the iron mask left alone in a prison by his own brother and mother--never avenged, never released, never mentioned again after we leave him imprisoned for the second time--AAAHHHH! Sorry if I have just ruined this for any of you. Don't read it--it is just frustrating. I guess that as much as I love the idea of history, I'm still a fairy-tale lover at heart. Where is the Happily Ever After?

Yeah, I know, it is all about the challenges. So Prince Phillippe is probably going to fair better than his brother Louis XIV in the world to come. I guess that is what it all comes down to. We don't get to select all the situations we are put in, but we decide what we will do with it. Heard it all before, huh? But, I guess, since we each live lives in which this is true, it is worth being reminded of. I really do like a book that makes me think about my choices and what kind of person I want to be--I just prefer to feel good when I reach the last word.

Don't you just feel better about yourself when your shoes look really cute sticking out at the bottom of your jeans and you are wearing something other than a tinkerbell t-shirt covered in baby snot? I guess I should try it a bit more often.

I love a bunch of energetic boys gathered in a huddle around a National Geographic magazine.

I love those moments when you are reminded that this is the life you chose, and you love it!

This picture looks simple enough, but it was taken in one of those moments. Things weren't perfect: Eli is sick; the book Gabriel is examining is one from the top shelf about "our changing bodies"--not my first pick for him just yet; Isaac is about to trip over Adam. It is my life and I do love it!

Quite a weekend

2009-02-13T05:18:00.000-08:00

This last weekend was a real story-in-the-making.

It all started with our once a month visit to the American Base. We were driving our one-month-old Honda Odyssey. We were excited for the extra space on the ride home since we are always packed full--we have to give a warning to the child riding in back at each turn so they can protect themself from the falling bags or cooler stacked to the roof at their side.

The drive up was normal--we listened to one of Grandma Moss' class reunion CD's, then soundtracks to great movies like Newsies, 7 Brides, and High School Musical (David may not want to admit that one). It is a 2 hour drive.

When we stopped to show our IDs to the soldiers at the entrance of the Base, David thought he saw smoke coming from the hood. He then decided it was something else, but had to quickly reconsider as more smoke emerged and we were all saying we smelled maple syrup (turned out to be antifreeze).

We pulled into the base, put up the hood, called the mechanic shop there, dropped off the car, went to the PX--shopping center. We had to walk in the rain to get there, but it was just drizzling. As the rain got worse and worse outside, we hung out in the store. We ended up there for the next 5 hours. There is a food court, so we ate lunch first and dinner just before we left. It got pretty old in that store. I ended up buying match box cars for the boys to play with and we spent a lot of time in the small furniture section trying out couches, swivel chairs, and occassionally the matress that was set up. I'm sure the man in charge of that area was wondering what in the world we were doing and just how much damage we were going to leave.

David spent much of this time on the phone with the Honda dealership, the Base mechanic shop, tow company, and car rental place. Our radiator was cracked, therefore needed to be replaced. It had to be towed to the Honda dealership--outside of the base--so they could do the repair, but they would have to order the part and wait for the arrival. Honda said they would provide a rental car, but after searching they said they couldn't find one with enough seats for our whole family. Luckily the rental agency on Base had one that would work (a van just like the European one we had sitting at our house--yes, we have 2 vans right now--we are just that cool).

David ran to pick up the rental while we ordered dinner. The rental place is off the Base, so he would catch a shuttle on base that heads there every hour or so. David showed up soon after that to tell me that he had missed the last shuttle by 15 minutes. He would have to wait until the morning.

We got a room in the lodge at the Base. We had to walk there with our purchases. The heavy rain subsided while we ate dinner--so nice. The lodge was a few blocks away. We decided to put away some of our heavier items and buy them the next day so we didn't have to carry them--big box of printer paper, big box of diapers, etc..

We were just glad to be out of the store, and the boys were thrilled to be staying at the hotel. They love being able to watch a movie before bed and cartoons in the morning (doesn't happen at home).

After checking out some movies and settling in, I noticed that Isaac had a mess of a diaper. No problem...problem...no diapers. There were some in the van at the closed mechanics shop miles away, and I had intended to buy that box of diapers earlier (remember?), but ....

Everything closes on the base at 7:00pm, so we were out of luck. We washed him off in the tiny sink with no counter--he didn't like that--and then I folded up one of the snowy white handtowels and positioned it inside of his onsie, snapping it in place--thank heavens for onsies!

Don't you hate going to bed without brushing your teeth (Don't keep tooth brushes in my purse for the off chance of an overnight stay)?

Next morning we woke up bright and early, thanks to our very reliable 1 year old alarm clock. When I went to get him out of the crib, my nose revealed another loaded diaper--only this time is was a towel. I must say that the handtowel/onsie thing really worked. Everything staying inside, and there was a lot of everything.

We decided to roll up the towel in diaper fashion, stick it in a plastic grocery bag, and throw it away. Wasteful, maybe, but I can promise you that the cleaning lady would thank us if she knew. After that Isaac was free and we all enjoyed the cuteness of a naked little baby bum for the next couple hours.

David was out to catch the shuttle at 7:30am. The plan was for him to catch the shuttle, get the rental, grab some diapers (turns out the shopette is open 24 hours--would have been nice to know before 7:00 that morning), drive back, eat breakfast, meet the tow truck, grab a couple things out of our van, go to the grocery store for a few items, and head home. Too bad the shuttle doesn't run on Saturdays. This is what David discovered while he was waiting for said shuttle. Luckily he was feeling humble and ready to ask for assistence, and there was a military police officer just waiting in his car. David asked and was driven to the rental place and the rest of the morning went as planned.

When Gabe got into the rental car he was very impressed with the interior (our twin van has non-soft leather seats and this one didn't). He excitedly exclaimed, "Adam, feel how soft our new car is!"

Now, the boys had been so excited to watch a DVD on the way home from the base in our new van--they have never seen a movie in that car because we are only going to use it for long trips. Before we left, I had agreed that they would be allowed to watch one on the way home. Well, we weren't driving that van, and since I knew this, that morning I had purchased a new book on CD. It came with the novel, and I figured it would have to do.

They were excited to hear it, but the CD player didn't work because the stereo in the rental needed a code, and the agency didn't know what it was. Luckily the book was there too, so I prayed not to get car sick and began reading it to them myself. The book was a simplified version of the story, A Little Princess. Yes, I have all boys and this sounds fufy--David hadn't heard of it and was expecting a Barbie story (I admit to having purchased Barbie's 12 dancing princesses this Christmas for the boys and I to enjoy--and they did), but if you know the story, it is wonderful for all sexes and ages. David loved it! My voice and stomach held out and we finished it 20 minutes before we got home. It was perfect.

It was now Saturday afternoon and David had to eat and rush out to get to a priesthood meeting in Rimini that was to last until 8:30 that night. He would return the rental in Rimini and get a ride home with the District President after the meetings.

It was a long afternoon for the boys and I, we were all a bit grumpy, but we survived. The boys were asleep and I was organizing pictures on the computer when David arrived home. He walked over to me, kissed me, put down the van key and exclaimed, "NO!" I looked to see the white rental company sticker on the back of the key. Remember that the van we rented was the same kind as ours here at home. They have an interesting card key--exacly the same, except for the sticker. The key Davied had returned with the rental was the key to our own van. I had to try not to laugh because David hadn't yet reached the point where one sees the humor in it all (if I had to go make the exchange I probably woudn't have found the funny either). He decided that he would figure it all out Sunday or Monday. Luckily we still had my key to our van so we could head to church the next morning.

Sunday morning we woke up nice and early and all got ready in great timing. We were going to be able to pick up Sister Muca and get to church on time, yeah! Eli and Gabe both had talks which were mostly prepared--just needed to translate Eli's into Italian on the way to church.

The boys loaded into the van, I ran back into the house to get a blanket for Isaac, ran out, shut and locked the garage, and was heading to my place in the van when David asked, "Did you grab my church bag?" "Oh. No. Sorry." "Did you get the keys to the garage?"...silence...

Yup, we were locked out of our house. We couldn't even go to church because we have to have the keys or push a button inside the house to open the gate to our driveway. We checked all the house windows and doors, but all was secure. David did his best to break in without causing serious damage, but couldn't do it (somewhat comforting, I must say). All was funny to me now, but David still wasn't ready for the laughs, so he didn't appreciate the photos being taken of his trial(yes, I did have my camera).

After about an hour David faced humility once again and called the landlord's gardener who happened to have a key to our garage. He came and opened it, and we were off (after promising ourselves to hide a key outside just in case this ever happened again).

We stayed at the church for 3 extra hours to make up for the 1 hour late, and Monday David exchanged the keys with the rental company.

Life is fun!

A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

2009-01-28T02:27:00.000-08:00

Okay, so most of us eat breakfast, but have you ever had one as cute as this? I love hard-boiled eggs and oranges, but look how much cuter it is when they are hard-boiled quail's eggs and teeny-tiny clementines! I just had to take a picture at the table this morning. Makes me happy just to look at it (I have to admit that, though my eyes prefer the smaller, my stomach much prefers the larger).
*David just smiled at his silly wife who wouldn't eat until she got the perfect picture of this adorable combination. That is just the way I am.

So, on that note....Last week for an activity at church, I asked the ladies to put 3 things in a bag that would describe them and their personalities. We had a very good time, and really learned a lot of fun little things about each other.

I decided that I would ask my family what items they would put in a bag. Here are our responses (I would love to hear some of yours, too!).

David:

1-Key to the church building--I do...

2-volley ball--...what I love...

3-Whatever book my wife is currently reading to us--...every day!

Rebekah:

1- book of fairy tales --love books, especially childrens's tales and all things Happily Ever After

2-bar of dark chocolate --may be my addiction, 70% cocoa (once a day, depending on the day, of course)

3-red and white polka-dot pillow case-- I love sheets too much, and red and white is the ultimate combination of colors, though I love all happy colors especially when complimented with white.

Eli:

1-Dinosaur book-- I love to study dinosaurs

2-one of my made up games-- I have made up many games, and like to make more

3-basketball--I'm pretty good at shooting hoops

Adam:

1-pencil/paper--loves to draw

2-sheriff's badge-- likes to play dress up

3-picture of my mother--"because I'm with her every second of every day" (good or bad?)

Gabriel:

1-big legos--favorite school time toy

2-Once upon a time...The three bears--loves books (this is his favorite today)

3-giant ground sloth--animals are his favorite thing in the world, the stranger the better (this is a real prehistoric creature he learned about at a dinosaur museum in Utah. For Christmas the boys got the toy version).

Isaac: (okay so not exact quotes)

1-a rolled up dirty diaper-- because this means it is no longer on his person
2-a bite-sized piece of anything--though he hates it being pried out of his mouth
3-his little easy-grip ball-- loves to feel the power of the pitch (also likes to do this with wooden blocks, plastic animals, etc.)