the many adventures of mr catch

Maybe Sploosh would be better.

2011-07-02T12:45:00.001-06:00

Onions from the garden

2011-07-02T11:23:00.003-06:00

MMMMMMMMMMMMM!

What we've been up to...

2011-07-02T09:55:00.007-06:00

Since last October (ahem)...we've been busy! As you know Christmas came and went. Sadly, I'm already comtemplating what 2011 Christmas will look like. Enough about that.

We've had children turn 16, 5 and 15 during the last several months. I couldn't even bring myself to post about the 16yo. It's an aversion I have to getting older. However, it was a "sweet" birthday for the boy. He is a great young man (most days) and love that he is the muscle around here. His goal is to stop at
6' 3". At the current rate, he just might make that.

We had Thanksgiving, at which time my backside starting growing and hasn't decided to stop. Luckily my husband likes me anyway and can dream of yesteryear before I had 6 Children.

The New Year was a breath of fresh air and a long Spring followed. Our garden is looking a bit droopy from the current blast of heat; but once upon a time it looked terrific!

We've been homeschooling, working, raising animals, raising kids, driving lessons, girls book clubs, gardening classes, boating, fishing, shooting, swimming, boys book clubs, having popsicle parties, movie nights, eagle projects, picnicing, reading and more!

I'd like to post more...but I'm off on another adventure. Laundry!!!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

We hope your Christmas Season is filled with love and excitement!
From Our Family To Yours, Merry Christmas!

Classically Addie

2010-10-24T22:40:00.000-06:00

Miss Addie, where has the time gone? Another birthday is here and the months seem to be flying by! I need you to slow down so I can savor the youngness that you exude. Everyday you wake up with your neverending energy, chattiness and willfulness. I suppose we are somewhat alike! I love the way you play with your younger siblings and take such good care of them. You are fun to have in the kitchen. I love watching you hang from the trees, play with playdough, build forts, play in the treehouse, jump on the trampoline, take pictures with my camera, get the mail, collect eggs, clean your room, draw, write plays, read until late in the night, plant flowers, ride your bike, play PIT, recite poems, sew and get excited about everything around you! I hope you never lose your sense of wonder, your liveliness or your spunk! Sometimes I don't always appreciate you for faithfully being energetic (like at 11:00 at night), but often I think of your smile and it warms my heart. I know you will grow up too quickly. I don't want that to come so soon. Please know that I love you dearly and am grateful that you are my daughter. Remember to sometimes be graceful and always be kind. I hope to always have dance parties with you and watch you grow beautiful wings to fly in this life. I hope you have a wonderful birthday!

To My Tiny Tot

2010-10-04T22:08:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Baby Girl. The man above was so smart when he sent you to us; I thank him for that wisdom. You are a delight to your brothers and sister and have brought a new tenderness out of all of them. Your Dad & Mom love you tremendously...you complete our family. Your smile captures us all. We love your sweetness, your toothy grin and your new walk! Let's spend the day playing and munching on your favorite things. Mostly, let's spend the day snuggling! Here's hoping you have a wonderful day!

Smile

2010-07-31T22:29:00.001-06:00

Something about her just makes me smile. :)

Motherhood

2010-07-19T16:42:00.001-06:00

Birthday Madness

2010-07-13T23:06:00.001-06:00

Yet another LOW-C Birthday is upon us! Mr. CM is making the awaited 12 in the morning! He is such a great kid. Aside from his lack of loving his older brothers 24/7, he is pretty much terrific! He loves scouting, camping, playing card games, pasta, salad, bike riding and reading all of the books everyone else is reading. M has a ton of pets that we allow him to keep, except for the snake that I made him turn loose. He is very loving and tender-hearted. It's amazing to me that he will be my 3rd young man to receive the Priesthood. That's crazy! I'm so glad that he is a part of this family. I always miss him when he is gone for too long. We hope you and all of your freckles have a wonderful birthday Magoo!

While We're At It...

2010-07-02T08:12:00.000-06:00

C just had his birthday the end of June. As a Mother, it's sometimes painful to watch your children get taller than you and smarter and sassier. But it is also a delight to see this young man learning and moving ahead in life. C became a teacher on his birthday. We had a delicious meal of sweet and sour chicken, rice, watermelon and zucchini. Let's not forget the cake and ice cream! A friend birthday party is still pending due to the fact the he has been gone all Summer to Youth Conference, Scout Camp, Family Reunions, etc. C keeps us hopping and there is always some excitement following him around. He has many friends, is a great reader, is outgoing, loves the outdoors, loves rice pudding and is artistic! C, we wish you much happiness! Love you!

Better Late Than Never

2010-07-02T07:57:00.000-06:00

Over 3 months ago our Mr. T had his birthday. Delighted with friends and trains of all kinds he joyfully entered the realm of 4-hood. I am happy to report that this many months down the line he is still playing with all of his toys! Even though little man is giving us a run (literally down the street and figuratively), he is such a treat. He is cuddly, humurous, intelligent and as I mentioned before - sneaky! He loves to read, go to Grandma's red house, ride his bike, eat ice cream and play in the water. We love you T!

Another TED Talk...autonomy, mastery and purpose. Brilliant!

2010-06-30T14:23:00.000-06:00

Our True Identity

2010-06-28T23:28:00.000-06:00

To all the swans in my life, enjoy!

Very logical quote from the 4yo

2010-05-03T10:36:00.000-06:00

"Mom, can I have some of this chocolate cake for breakfast? It's trying to get in my mouth."

Something in the water.

2010-03-23T10:29:00.000-06:00

Others have recently posted updated photographs of their young people. I thought I would share in the joy. Here are my acronyms. What? Did you think I was announcing something else? NOT A CHANCE!!!

Addendum to mr catch, baby A

M or C (depending on the one you choose, they both work)

and finally, H.

We'll leave out the parental units. They are not as cute (sorry honey, I know it's harsh).

To Max, Liam & Jenna

2010-03-18T08:22:00.001-06:00

Chug on over to Tanner’s Birthday Party!

Let’s celebrate this Saturday, March 20th
from 12:00-1:30
at Losee Station.
Please meet at Track Number For pizza, cake & games.

ALL ABOARD!

Regrets to the Conductor, Connie

Happy, happy!

2010-03-17T11:47:00.000-06:00

Whether you are wearing green earrings, underwear or socks, we hope you have a happy day. Especially you, Ryan!

I Can't Help But Wonder...

2010-03-14T20:58:00.000-06:00

What life will be like in 5, 10, and 25 years.
Because it sure is great now.
:)

Enough

2010-03-05T17:26:00.001-07:00

This is enough to make any day great.

So is this.

And this.

Heavenly Father completely knows what he is doing. I feel so blessed for his wisdom.

BLACK THURSDAY

2010-02-25T06:52:00.000-07:00

Well, the time has come to say a fond farewell to youth. Today Rusty turns 40. 40. Yes, 40.

We hope you get all the sleep you need. Maybe enjoy a game on TV, a coke and some mashed potatoes. Hopefully all of the kids will be obedient and kind. Maybe your wife will have a sparkling clean house for you and the yardwork done. Perhaps you'll get to read your favorite book and lounge around. Maybe some giving person will bless you with tickets for 2 on an extended vacation to your favorite Carribean island, pina coladas included. Maybe all of your worries and sorrows could disappear for one day and you could spend time just being you. That is our birthday wish for you!

Instead, please enjoy the thought that all of these things will take place over a lifetime, which will take at least another 40 years!

Happy Birthday!

Your Loving Family

And thanks for all of the fun we do get to enjoy together! Swimming, camping, Disneylanding, gardening, projecting, fighting, laughing, stressing, boating, fishing, digging, parenting, loving, kissing :), cleaning, learning, reading, playing, working, and dreaming. Just to name a few. We love you, receding hairline and all!

Avery Elle

2009-11-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

Avoided it this long...

2009-02-19T20:04:00.000-07:00

Shelli must love me. She put me at the top of her tagging list. Connie the homeschooler is how she put it. Are you desperate, woman? And to clarify, homeschooling is cool. Everyone is jealous. And I am NOT weird. :)

Alright, the tag.

8's Tag Rules:
1. Post the rules.
2. Answer the six 8 items.
3. Let each person know that they have been tagged.

8 Favorite TV Shows:

Wait...this might seem weird after all.
I don't have TV.
Ummm, can I substitute? Instead I will digress:

8 Favorite types of chocolate:
1. Anything from Germany!
2. Lindt.
3. Dove (someone will think moisturizing bar - sicko).
4. Treasure's from Hershey's

5. An Almond Joy bar

6. EWS Mint Truffles

7. Homemade Fudge

8. twixreeseswhatchamacalitsnickeralmondrocakitkatbar

8 Things I Did Yesterday:

1. Ditched the Sunday Program.
2. Slept on the couch with my box of tissues next to me.
3. Paid Fast Offerings...but not Tithing (that would require income).
4. Made pumpkin and banana bread.
5. Infected the rest of my family.
6. Stayed in my pajamas (Yes, even when the Deacons came by).
7. Filed an insane amount of paperwork.

8. Waved Rusty out the door when he left for work at 10:00 pm.

8 Favorite Restaurants:

1. PF Changs (Mmm, lettuce wraps!)

2. China Palace

3. Su Casa

4. The Italian Place

5. Pizza Factory

6. Cafe Rio

7. My Backyard Grill & Eatery

8. Rusty's Cafe and Cleanup

8 Things I Look Forward To:

1. Warm weather.

2. Camping & fishing with my hubby and my kids.

3. A date with Rusty.

4. Employment and stability.

5. Learning more about bee's (Okay, maybe another weird moment).

6. My garden.

7. The next great book that I am about to read.

8. Get-togethers and times of laughter.

8 Things On My Wish List:

1. Expansion and completion of my home.

2. Employment for Rusty and stability.

3. My food storage to be stocked!
4. Debt-free!

5. Endless vacations with my best friend, Rusty!
6. A Farm. Maybe a bee farm. Or one in Delta.

7. Enough money to help others.

8. Kids who will do well to remember that I am what gave them life!!! :)
(Just kidding, I have great kids. They just talk back sometimes. Grrrr.)
Okay, what I really want to say is kids who will always want to do the right thing. :)

8 Tags:

1. Robyn
2. Annie
3. Angela
4. Bonita
5. Rusty
6. Andy
7. Mom Losee
8. Terry/Sheri

The Odds

2009-02-19T19:46:00.000-07:00

So, my Sister-in-law gave a challenge to post the 6th picture out of my 6th folder in my picture file and blog it. The odds of it being this rascal are pretty high considering he gets the most camera time. I suppose he is the one in trouble and instead of beating him, we laugh and take a picture. A constant demand is "Blanket & Cup". No questions asked. We have evolved to using a sippy cup that he cannot bite the end off of. Self-confession: I'm really glad the rug is clean in this picture!

Amen!

2009-02-07T22:05:00.000-07:00

So my 2 year just said, "Hey Mom, I need some chocolate!"

More Words of Wisdom from Rusty

2009-02-07T14:41:00.000-07:00

"When I'm feeling down, I like to whistle. It makes the neighbor's dog run to the end of his chain and gag himself."

"He who hesitates is probably doing the right thing."

"Did you ever notice that the Roman Numerals for forty (40) are 'XL'."

My list of friends

2009-02-06T16:33:00.000-07:00

Apparently, my list of friends is getting smaller. Every week someone new blocks me out of their blog. I miss checking in on all of you. I hope you are well.

From the desk of Rusty

2009-02-06T15:14:00.000-07:00

"The older you get, the tougher it is to lose weight, because by then your body and your fat have gotten to be really good friends."

"Did you ever notice: When you put the words 'The' and 'IRS' together it spells 'Theirs'."

"Long ago when men cursed and beat the ground with sticks, it was called witchcraft.

Today, it's called golf."

Old Glory

2009-01-28T09:36:00.000-07:00

Our Anthem

2009-01-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

I keep singing at the top of my lungs several verses of our Anthem. Sometimes my children run and hide and sometimes they join me. I want them to know all four stanzas and their meaning. I am embarrassed to admit that I personally had no idea all of the words myself until recently. Now, as I study it and realize the words, I come to tears every time. Here is a great tidbit from a great author about the Anthem. I hope your patriotism overflows when you read it, as does mine.

All Four Stanzas
By Isaac Asimov
Introductory Note. Unless you're already well acquainted with our "national anthem," this interesting piece by the late Isaac Asimov will be an eye-opener. It was for me. It's especially appropriate at a time when there is much talk of tossing out this difficult-to-sing and difficult-to-comprehend old song in favor of something that better suits Ray Charles' voice. You'll understand the song much better after you read Mr. Asimov's explanation.--Hardly Waite, Gazette Senior Editor.

I have a weakness--I am crazy, absolutely nuts, about our national anthem.
The words are difficult and the tune is almost impossible, but frequently when I'm taking a shower I sing it with as much power and emotion as I can. It shakes me up every time.
I was once asked to speak at a luncheon. Taking my life in my hands, I announced I was going to sing our national anthem--all four stanzas.
This was greeted with loud groans. One man closed the door to the kitchen, where the noise of dishes and cutlery was loud and distracting. "Thanks, Herb," I said.
"That's all right," he said. "It was at the request of the kitchen staff."
I explained the background of the anthem and then sang all four stanzas.
Let me tell you, those people had never heard it before--or had never really listened. I got a standing ovation. But it was not me; it was the anthem.
More recently, while conducting a seminar, I told my students the story of the anthem and sang all four stanzas. Again there was a wild ovation and prolonged applause. And again, it was the anthem and not me.
So now let me tell you how it came to be written.
In 1812, the United States went to war with Great Britain, primarily over freedom of the seas. We were in the right. For two years, we held off the British, even though we were still a rather weak country. Great Britain was in a life and death struggle with Napoleon. In fact, just as the United States declared war, Napoleon marched off to invade Russia. If he won, as everyone expected, he would control Europe, and Great Britain would be isolated. It was no time for her to be involved in an American war.
At first, our seamen proved better than the British. After we won a battle on Lake Erie in 1813, the American commander, Oliver Hazard Perry, sent the message "We have met the enemy and they are ours." However, the weight of the British navy beat down our ships eventually. New England, hard-hit by a tightening blockade, threatened secession.
Meanwhile, Napoleon was beaten in Russia and in 1814 was forced to abdicate. Great Britain now turned its attention to the United States, launching a three-pronged attack. The northern prong was to come down Lake Champlain toward New York and seize parts of New England. The southern prong was to go up the Mississippi, take New Orleans and paralyze the west. The central prong was to head for the mid-Atlantic states and then attack Baltimore, the greatest port south of New York. If Baltimore was taken, the nation, which still hugged the Atlantic coast, could be split in two. The fate of the United States, then, rested to a large extent on the success or failure of the central prong.
The British reached the American coast, and on August 24, 1814, took Washington, D. C. Then they moved up the Chesapeake Bay toward Baltimore. On September 12, they arrived and found 1000 men in Fort McHenry, whose guns controlled the harbor. If the British wished to take Baltimore, they would have to take the fort.
On one of the British ships was an aged physician, William Beanes, who had been arrested in Maryland and brought along as a prisoner. Francis Scott Key, a lawyer and friend of the physician, had come to the ship to negotiate his release. The British captain was willing, but the two Americans would have to wait. It was now the night of September 13, and the bombardment of Fort McHenry was about to start.
As twilight deepened, Key and Beanes saw the American flag flying over Fort McHenry. Through the night, they heard bombs bursting and saw the red glare of rockets. They knew the fort was resisting and the American flag was still flying. But toward morning the bombardment ceased, and a dread silence fell. Either Fort McHenry had surrendered and the British flag flew above it, or the bombardment had failed and the American flag still flew.
As dawn began to brighten the eastern sky, Key and Beanes stared out at the fort, trying to see which flag flew over it. He and the physician must have asked each other over and over, "Can you see the flag?"
After it was all finished, Key wrote a four stanza poem telling the events of the night. Called "The Defence of Fort M'Henry," it was published in newspapers and swept the nation. Someone noted that the words fit an old English tune called "To Anacreon in Heaven" --a difficult melody with an uncomfortably large vocal range. For obvious reasons, Key's work became known as "The Star Spangled Banner," and in 1931 Congress declared it the official anthem of the United States.
Now that you know the story, here are the words. Presumably, the old doctor is speaking. This is what he asks Key
Oh! say, can you see, by the dawn's early light,W hat so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming? Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight, O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof thro' the night that our flag was still there.Oh! say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave, O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
"Ramparts," in case you don't know, are the protective walls or other elevations that surround a fort. The first stanza asks a question. The second gives an answer
On the shore, dimly seen thro' the mist of the deep, Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes, What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep.As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?
Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam, In full glory reflected, now shines on the stream 'Tis the star-spangled banner. Oh! long may it wave O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

"The towering steep" is again, the ramparts. The bombardment has failed, and the British can do nothing more but sail away, their mission a failure.
In the third stanza, I feel Key allows himself to gloat over the American triumph. In the aftermath of the bombardment, Key probably was in no mood to act otherwise.
During World War II, when the British were our staunchest allies, this third stanza was not sung. However, I know it, so here it is
And where is that band who so vauntingly swore That the havoc of war and the battle's confusion A home and a country should leave us no more? Their blood has washed out their foul footstep's pollution.
No refuge could save the hireling and slave From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave, And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

The fourth stanza, a pious hope for the future, should be sung more slowly than the other three and with even deeper feeling.
Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand Between their loved homes and the war's desolation, Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the Heav'n - rescued land Praise the Pow'r that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, for our cause is just, And this be our motto--"In God is our trust." And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.
I hope you will look at the national anthem with new eyes. Listen to it, the next time you have a chance, with new ears.
And don't let them ever take it away.
--Isaac Asimov, March 1991

And...

2009-01-28T07:41:00.001-07:00

And Grandpa's shovel.

Oops!

2009-01-27T21:41:00.000-07:00

How could I forget the marshmallow wars? Yeah, and the marshmallow wars.
(for the Delta post)

Delta is cool.

2009-01-27T15:13:00.001-07:00

Some of you might think I am kind of sick, but I really do love Delta. I have been thinking about it quite a bit and here are the things I miss about it:

Grandpa (he is still there, I just can't seem to get there).

The open fields.

All of the neat stuff to take pictures of.

The hardpan.

The bonfire.

Not the hot dogs.

The little fires the kids make.

Yes, the yodelling.

The Jubilee.

Getting a shake.

And fries.

Pennies on the train track.

The old farm.

The tractors at the old farm.

The park.

Swimming.

The old bowling lane.

The house that I would love to live in (it used to be an LDS Church).

Chicken nuggets on Sunday mornings.

Pink potatoes.

The backyard laying out on blankets goofing off with the rest of you.

For those of you who know what I am talking about, you can't say you don't have a little Delta love too. I keep trying to convince Rusty we should head back up there and farm. Considering our situation, he just might do it now. :)

Extra, extra...

2009-01-27T15:07:00.001-07:00

This darling has seem to come up missing. If anyone knows how I can find her, please let me know (I say this after a full day of whining and screaming from her yesterday). This picture reminds me of her sweetness. Now...to unbury it.

Snow Cones

2008-12-18T11:12:00.001-07:00

These are the "Real" thing. As opposed to shaved ice from a block. I usually keep some flavoring around, however, I really never thought we would be using it in December with actual snow. And before anyone else mentions it (primarily Rusty, Terry or Bob), at least it's not yellow!

It's Official! Snow Day Today!

2008-12-18T09:53:00.000-07:00

Our Great Dixie Weather! Only in these parts does school get cancelled for a few inches of snow. Of course, my kids woke up this morning begging me to cancel school too. Luckily the Principle (intentional spelling) agreed.

Travel safely!

2008-11-23T17:34:00.000-07:00

I know the wife bought a turkey.

But where on earth did she put the bird?

Considering all of the horrible travelling we have done through Thanksgiving history...I plan on breaking the cycle this year! I hope you enjoy your holiday as well.

And while your at it, eat some pumpkin pie for me

(for all of you who know the history of Thanksgivings past that include my....ummm.....losing it)!

Ahhhhh! Tryptophan, here we come!

Going to Prison?

2008-11-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

Prior to going on our trip we had a discussion about Georgia. We talked about the state and its history. When we returned home a few of the neighbor kids asked us if we had fun in prison. Immediately I realized that my kids told them we were going to visit the prison state. I guess the neighbors got a bit confused.

Motley crew!

They wanted a comfy place to sit.

Going Underground.

This place serves hot dogs with cole slaw on top.

Field Trip

2008-11-13T19:56:00.000-07:00

Last month we decided to take a field trip to the Georgia Aquarium.

I love homeschooling!

This guy is as big as he looks!

A few of us were mesmerized by the jellies.

This was the first hands on event of the day.

Shiny!

Another "get your hands in there and get wet" kind of moment.

Taking the plunge

2008-11-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

Getting closer!

A wing and a prayer!

Wave to the friendly Americans!

Soaked!

End of the ride!

My kids said this was better than the splash pad.

What a blast!

Our Maiden Voyage

2008-11-07T08:07:00.000-07:00

Our ride

See that boat? Yeah, that's where we are going.

A blue pirate. He's so cute.

A face full of fun. Silly girl.

A beached whale?

The Falls, Scene I

2008-11-07T07:46:00.000-07:00

We headed towards the boarwalk at Niagara Falls. The night before it felt like it was raining because of the mist falling. It was freezing! The day turned out to be very nice. These were a few pictures taken as we approached the viewing area. To see it with our own eyes is nothing but wondrous!
Tourists

More Tourists

Horseshoe Falls

American Falls

FYI: Don't eat oatmeal in Canada!

2008-11-07T03:32:00.000-07:00

What makes for a great vacation? Answer: Breakfast is ready and waiting for you when you get out of bed. THAT WAS OUR REALITY CHECK WHEN WE CAME HOME! No hotel, motel or Grandma to show off their caring ways. It meant the Mom of the family felt greater expectation to arise at the crack of dawn and lovingly make an enormous hot cooked meal every single day. Sounds wonderful. Actually, I wanted to do that but my eyes still won't open every day (as I write this at 3:50am). I guess I am continuing to recover from our rough vacation! :0) I will say that the oatmeal in Canada is disguisting...really disguisting. But I can make a mean bowl of it here at home. Maybe enormouse meals are overrated. I will keep telling myself that!

Oh yeah - we were so deprived. I mean, look at this view. I was a little upset that we didn't have a better view of Niagara Falls for our morning meal. Couldn't they have built our seats closer? We should have stayed in a nicer hotel. One with at least 55 stories instead of 45. WHATEVER! Can you believe this view? It was another awesome moment!

This is how we started General Conference Sunday. SO COOL!

2008-11-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

Ringing the bell in the Kirtland Temple was a huge highlight on our trip. Truly it was an honor for our children to experience this very personal event. We are grateful that Grandpa has made such an impression on one of the Community of Christ members. So much so that he invited Elder Losee's Grandchildren to pull the rope. 50 tugs every Sunday morning. And we got to share in that! Awesome! Thanks Grandpa for being such a wonderful missionary!

And thanks to Mike, our new Kirtland friend!

*Tanner needs saving here. The Bell at the other end about pulled him up!*

Oh, the anticipation!

2008-10-23T08:03:00.000-06:00

First, I have to apologize for the fuzzy pictures. I must have been moving everytime I took a shot. Anyway, these pictures were prior to our "Red-eye". Going backwards we have:

sitting in those comfy chairs in the airport...waiting

riding the moving floor...and waiting

on the subway...waiting fast

in the parking lot...walking and waiting

Tanner packing himself...because he can't wait any longer

Since coming home from our trip, I have decided that we always need something

to look forward to. Just so we can WAIT for it to come!

The Speed of Light

2008-10-16T08:15:00.000-06:00

Cool green door....it's the Temple in Kirtland! Grandpa and his true calling.
The lovebirds. The kids always ask us not to hug or kiss. Yeah, right!!!
Before Preisthood session. Personally, I think the ice cream sundaes were the real reason for getting dressed up!
The youngsters petting the calf. Notice how Addie is covering her face. Smelly cows!

Life seems to pass faster than I can keep up with! Our days are busy and filled to the brim with all things good. Although I wish my Halloween decorations were out, I feel pretty good about everything we are getting accomplished...save one. I cannot seem to get this darn blog updated! Our family has SOOOOOOO much to report about our recent adventures. Serving justice in this arena requires me to spend more time than I can give myself, until next week anyway. So I will just put up a few pictures and hope that soothes my palate. These are a few from around Kirtland. I apologize that it is such a mote!

Some fruit and veggies of our labor:

2008-09-22T21:54:00.000-06:00

This is just a very small portion of what our garden supplied us with this year.

We thought we were clever!

Crawdad Kings!

2008-09-22T21:38:00.000-06:00

Veyo is always a fun spot to let the kids catch the crawdads and explore in the water. The canyon was cool and offered the perfect place to enjoy some anti-technology time. They caught quite a few critters and collected them by the pool. Carter thought he was really going to freak me out by puting the things on his head. It didn't work. Tanner wanted to hold the little bugs, so Hayden and McKay tried to keep him away from getting pinched. I think the biggest one was about 6 inches long!

Better late than never!

2008-09-22T21:35:00.001-06:00

Here is Addie's

Armenian Cucumber that she entered into the County Fair.

She won the Blue Ribbon and $3.00!

Way to go Sister!

Another Tribute to Andy

2008-09-22T21:24:00.000-06:00

So the other day my youngest son (we'll call him meanie) decided to take off his clothing and whizz all over our cat. Frosty had no choice but to take it because he had just had another surgery, was sporting a cone and locked up in a cage. I felt so bad for the cat, but Shana mentioned I should say this about "meanie" as to move him to the top of Andy's list

(and you all know about the list).

10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1...Blastoff!!!

2008-09-22T13:51:00.000-06:00

The Ashery

Georgia Forest

The Red Schoolhouse

Horseshoe Falls

Guitarfish

We are so close to leaving on our vacation.

We can't wait to visit with family and see all of the sights!

We will share our fun with you later!

Above are a few pictures of what we plan to encounter.

Tribute to Andy.

2008-09-22T13:18:00.000-06:00

Just when he thought our family couldn't be more corrupt (some might call it dedicated to the church)! Rusty, Hayden, Carter and Bob and a few of their friends went to the BYU football game on Saturday. Even though BYU slaughtered Wyoming they had a great time. As they pulled out of town, they proudly wore their blue and white attire. Some even came back with new shirts displaying the"Y" on them. I think future games are already being considered. I am sure many other family members followed the score and plays of the game. So Andy, sorry to let you know that you have family with blue blood who really do enjoy the fine LDS spirit in Provo.

Another Cougar touchdown!

Pine Valley Pics

2008-09-18T09:58:00.001-06:00

A Wednesday Drive

2008-09-18T09:58:00.000-06:00

I cannot remember the last time we just hopped in the van and took a drive. Growing up my Dad would drive my brother's and I around scenic highways on Sunday's. I think we called it church. My Mom would drive us around the Holiday's and try to lull us to sleep. She called it sanity.

Rusty came home from work and encouraged everyone to get in the car. Unusual for him to say such a thing. The fact that our vacation is right around the corner might have something to do with it. We're getting anxious to travel and be together for several days in a row. That being said, Rusty tried to pass off our ride as a trial run. Yeah - like we are somehow not going to take the kids on our vacation. Anyway, we had our moments of failure and success as we made our way to Veyo. The driver (AKA Dad) stopped at the Merc and invited us all in for dinner. What a lovely treat as we dined on yummy food that I didn't have to cook. I still had to clean up while we were there due to a drink being spilled and enormous amounts of ketchup. But our waitress was awesome and incredibly intelligent and witty. She totally deserved a tip. I can't say the same about most. It was just our family in the place, thank heavens. We really need to work on having better manners. I don't think other diners would appreciate our family at this point. Laying down, crawling on the floor, bodily noises, fighting, wandering, etc, etc. And that was just Addie. Nonetheless - we had a really great time. As we jumped back into our Mormon mobile, Rusty continued on the road to Pine Valley. Why in the world do we not live up there? It was 60 degrees and perfect. It had been raining. Rain? I almost forgot what that was. The fire was still burning as we watched the hot-shots pull out of the mountains. The smoke lifted into the damp sky and was haunting and mesmerizing. We visited with our friend Bambi and his family. We saw a list of things that kept everyone on the lookout, which included: A Pine Tree, A Deer, A Bear, A Tractor, A River, A Rabbit, A Fire, A Horse, and A Volcano. We found everything successfully. Before darkness settled in we took the steep drive up to Oakridge Drive. We found the lot where Dean and Karen have a piece of property. The view at that spot is breathtaking. It's up one of the canyon slots and feels more cabin worthy than town like. It's amazing (Good pick Jeremy!). The Winter may turn out to be a challenge considering none of our family own 4-wheel drive vehicles. We barely made the climb in our gutless wonder. We also collected deadwood for some Halloween decorations while at the lot. Witches brooms and spooky trees for birds were just a few creations we came up with. After all of our exploring we drove home into the sunset. It was really enjoyable. Thanks Rusty for hauling us away from the circus for a few hours. Carter even came home and set up a tent in his room to sleep in for the night. I guess he wanted to remain in the mountains!

Oh, the weather outside has been frightful.

2008-08-26T10:57:00.000-06:00

Hopefully the heat will continue to settle down soon. I was just looking through some Spring pictures and sure liked what I did see! Year-round blooms and greenery would make my day.

Great lines.

2008-08-21T16:06:00.000-06:00

Stuart Mackenzie: Look at the size of that boy's heed. Tony Giardino: Shhh! Stuart Mackenzie: I'm not kidding, it's like an orange on a toothpick. Tony Giardino: Shhh, you're going to give the boy a complex. Stuart Mackenzie: Well, that's a huge noggin. That's a virtual planetoid. Tony Giardino: Shh! Stuart Mackenzie: Has it's own weather system. Tony Giardino: Sh, sh, shh. Stuart Mackenzie: HEAD! MOVE!

Just thought I would share the news!

2008-08-21T15:51:00.000-06:00

I stole this from my Brother's blog. Actually, it's my Sister-in-law's doing. HEEE, HEEE!

The Scoop

2008-08-12T12:02:00.001-06:00

I/We have been getting quite a few questions and comments regarding our decision to homeschool our children. I thought I would dispel as many concerns as possible. If you have no interest in this subject, feel free to pass up this post. You can think about ice cream instead. It does look tempting, doesn't it? As for the rest of you who are curious, please read on. Just to clarify, when I say "I", it means I and We and Him.

Question #1: Why?
Answer: This is a many-layered answer. My simplest version would be that we feel we are not getting enough of the good stuff, elsewhere. I will cover the longer version further in the post.

Question #2: What about their social life?
Answer: Great question! It's a valid concern. Have you met me? I wouldn't consider myself or my children anti-social. In fact, we are all socialized in many ways. I grew up being socialized among my peers. It was my main influence. I think that qualifies me to say that I don't want that type of pop culture for my kids. We have been very influenced over the years by the standard, the main stream, the ordinary and the everyday. We have also had all of the crud that's attached to being mediocre. Complacency, the constant need to be entertained, frustration, sarchasm, emotional defensiveness, to name a few. In our home, it has taken this approach to raising our family to help battle, defend and conquer the appropriate socialization. I want my kids to really know who they are and feel comfortable with that before practicing it in the world. To help this effort, I diligently seek out experiences and venues where our kids can be with others who are working towards the same goal.

Question #492: How will you meet all of their needs?
Answer: I won't. It would be foolish for me to think that I can fulfill every little facet of their needs. However, I feel that I am intelligent enough to learn and to teach. What I can't figure out, we will find elsewhere. At least I can look in places for said help in places that are appropriate, personal and inspiring.

Question #672: Do you hate public school?
Answer: Ha, ha, ha!!! This is a trick question. I personally know so many truly wonderful teachers! They are inspiring, believe in helping a child and would go to the ends of the Earth to do so. Am I wrong when I say that these teachers have too many restrictions? Can they truly fulfill those desires that lead them to teaching in the first place? We have personally witnessed in many ways that this can no longer be accomplished in public school. The powers that be have made it extemely difficult (even to the point of a teacher losing their job) to really accomodate an individual. We have been told time and again that there are too many students, that they can't get past the administration to change a piece of curriculum, that too many children come from homes where behavior needs to be fixed at school, that standardization is the goal because of legislation, etc, etc, etc. I would love nothing more than to see public school's go back to taking a child and looking at their wants , needs and interests and really reinforcing the good qualities in that child. Where a teacher can really teach. But a teacher has too much on their plates. They can't be as inspiring as they want to be. Too much and too many of the problems in life have crept into the school's and a teacher can't control that.

Side note: THIS WILL BE A LENGTHY POST. I am foaming at the mouth now.

Question #771 & all of the others that I can think of right now:
Answer(s): I don't want anyone to think that we feel above anyone or look down on any approach to education. This is just a testimony of personal experience and the journey we are taking to raise our family. Essentially, we have been missing some key learning points in our home. A few hours every evening wasn't giving us enough time to really make a difference in our lives or our children. The outside influences have been far more reaching and greater in how our kids are and will be. It was time to change that. I really want my kids to get a first class education. I want them to learn and grow. More importantly I want them to see that learning is interesting...even fascinating. It has taken Rusty & I these many years to even be interested in learning again. I think part of it comes down to loving it. Loving the journey and the information. But, first thing first. I want my kids the know right from wrong. Then I want them to be comfortable in knowing that they are the best teacher unto themselves. We have all had those experiences where we are bored with what we are being taught or check out when we don't understand something. What a gift I can give my kids to let them recognize that they have the power within themselves to find the answers. To know that no one else HAS to tell them how to think or what to think. Additionally, my boys will all be future providers and the head of household someday. Yeah - so how do you teach young men everything they need to know to be future husbands and fathers? How to you teach a young girl that the clothes she wears and the friends she makes will pale in comparison to the strengh and compassion that is within her. This brings me to my next point. I want an education for my kids...but I really want them to learn how to be great people and use that educational experience to become great. That information is a tool to be used for good. I guess I see this whole concept with eternal eyes.

We have really struggled in our home with right and wrong, with loving life and learning, with being really compassionate. We have been guided in our home to really look hard and long at the future and what it holds for us. I am hopeful that with Him, we can do this (With a big healthy dose of divine guidance)! It's no easy or small task. We understand that teaching is simple and learning is difficult. I feel that we have been given a lease on life and to truly make the most of it. In a few years time, my kids will be out of our home. We cannot protect them from every influence in the world. But man, we are sure going to give it our best to send them into life armed with as many tools to be successful as possible.

AMEN!!!! :0)

Chief Trouble Maker

2008-08-10T21:24:00.000-06:00

I seriously contemplated puting all of the pictures of Tanner's messes on the blog.

Maybe later.

Pure Mischief.

You can FAINT now!

2008-08-10T21:07:00.000-06:00

Yes, my DH put this wall up in our bathroom. And although it's not finished...I can see progress! Eternal projects on the money pit! Any bets on how much longer this project will take?

Wedding

2008-08-10T20:00:00.000-06:00

My brother Douglas married the girl of his dreams a few weeks ago (we really like her too). Here are a few pictures from the blessed gathering. Addie & Tanner were part of the wedding party. Tanner decided he would rather play golf. :)

Epiphany/Confession/Nothing New

2008-08-06T11:45:00.000-06:00

I was just looking over our pictures and realized how messy we can be!!! That's all.

Family Night Fun

2008-08-06T11:15:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago we went to Enterprise with our Ward Family. It was great weather, fun entertainment, and the company we keep.....judge for yourselves.

For more of our Family Night Fun check out youtube and type Sunset 5th Ward.

We did, however, forget to take a picture of the rattlesnake.

Passport from Germany

2008-07-21T22:50:00.000-06:00

Adrian stayed with us for a week. We were excited to see him again.

Maybe someday we will all travel to his home instead!

Giddy-Up!

2008-07-21T22:43:00.000-06:00

McKay & Dad riding in Snow Canyon State Park. Just adding to his dream of being a rancher!

A Face Only His Mother Could Love. And Clean Up.

2008-07-21T22:20:00.000-06:00

Another one of Carter at Powell

2008-07-21T22:00:00.000-06:00

More CATCHing up !!!!!! Lake Powell

2008-07-21T20:17:00.000-06:00

A couple days at Lake Powell.

Time to CATCH up !!!!

2008-07-21T01:09:00.000-06:00

It has been a busy summer so far. Hopefully we can get you caught up on all of our adventures.

Carter throwing the hatchet at Knight's of Freedom dinner!

Addie and McKay learning how to be mountain men.

Family Night Bowling

Swimming in the backyard. Hayden at YFA Camp!

Carters 12th Birthday

McKays 10th Birthday

More to come soon!!!!!!!

Under New Management !!!!!

2008-07-01T19:59:00.000-06:00

You may have noticed that MR CATCH has not had many adventures lately. This is simply not true. We just don't update the blog very often. In the past this job has been left to the Mrs. of MR CATCH, but I, the Mr of MR CATCH have pulled rank and taken over the job. If you believe that then you don't know MR CATCH very well....( she told me it was my turn). This is known as compromise. Happy reading!

Wrong Name

2008-06-06T08:04:00.000-06:00

As it seems, we have given this blog the wrong name. We never post any of our adventures. We never get a chance to share our lives. I could say that we are soooooo busy that we don't have time to write. Truthfully, we are soooooo lame that we don't write. That - AND we still don't have pictures loaded here to share with you all. Someday something will be written and our lives will look "un"boring again. Until then.

Just because

2008-04-21T19:51:00.001-06:00

Happy Monday Everyone!

For camera lover's only. It's 39 Mpix. You can drool now.

2008-04-16T09:23:00.000-06:00

Not that anyone cares...

2008-04-16T08:09:00.001-06:00

Okay - So I am feeling the pressure of being tagged. After all, if Lige could spill it out...

Ten Year's Ago What Were You Doing:
That was 1998, right? Actually, it probably wasn't the happiest time in my life. We were living in Logan (very beautiful town). I was expecting boy number 3 and feeling very overwhelmed. I am glad I made such great friends who kept me moving in life. Wow - it really seems like a lifetime ago!

Things On MY To Do List:
Put an icepack on my face, take an 800mg Ibuprofen and get back in bed. I look like a ridiculous chipmunk on one side of my face. Major dental work. Enough said. As for long-term - sign up for pottery classes, pick up my potter's wheel in SLC (yeah me :)), household projects, play with my family, write a book (Okay - this one's a stretch. I can't even keep the blog updated), take the kids on a plane ride, go to Puerto Rico with Rusty.

Snacks I Enjoy:
Did someone mention chocolate? I can turn ice cream away. I can turn cake away. I can turn muddy buddies away. I can turn corn pops away. Aside from caramel corn, I can turn anything away unless it is covered in chocolate. My favorite's are Lindt, Milka from Germany and Raisinettes. I also like chips and salsa and spinach dip.

What Would I Do If I Were Suddenly A Billionaire?:
Pay off debt, including my house. I would put in a pool, build an art studio and a library. I would pay someone to complete the projects list. I would start a children's museum, help someone in need and then go travel around the world with my favorite people (Rusty and my kids!). Oh - I would buy a Hasselblad Digital Camera and a Jag. Pretty simple.

3 Bad Habits:
I am glad it only asks for three. 1) Never folding socks. I am sure most of you have noticed my children wearing mismatched socks. We have a bin. It works just fine. Rusty always thinks it a miracle when the bin is empty and the drawers are full. Dig in kids! 2) I am always right. I know this is debatable. But in my head everything makes sense. For the record - I am working on this not so good trait. 3) Starting something and never finishing. Probably the most intrusive bad habit of mine. If you talk with me regularly, you already know the list of "un-done's". It's like the Relief Society closet of crap that never ends.

Places I Have Lived:
Utah. Exciting, I know. Okay - SLC area, Logan area, St. George. Impressive list but it's home.

Jobs I Have Had:
Well, some of the most interesting one's were the following:
*First day working for Jeremy and walking into the life-sized craps table. He was letting the employees gamble for their paychecks. *Mendon Station Restaurant as a server (best food on the earth - but the city wanted their building back, so they closed) - the owner was entirely crazy which made the job really entertaining. *Being a Mom. Every moment is interesting. That may sound cheesy - but it's my favorite job!

5 Things People May Not Know About Me:
1) I love to sing and I love music. I didn't say I was good, but I can sing long and loud. 2) I'm a natural blue. Apparently Rusty forgets and acknowledges my green eyes occasionally. I am convinced he had a crush on some Latin girl on his mission who must have had green eyes. It's the only explanation, right? 3) I have had plastic surgery. I will let your imagination go with that one. 4) I was the manager of the track and field team in Junior High. Pretty lame fact that I have kept to myself until now. 5) My brother and I had guinea pigs as pets. I got tired of mine in my room so I put it's cage out in the garage. I froze the poor thing, literally.

5 People I Tag:
Anyone in the family who hasn't been blessed to do it yet!

Spiritual Moment

2008-04-09T22:16:00.000-06:00

This is the picture I uploaded by accident. I figured it was worth posting anyway. Oh ya - Happy Belated Easter.

We Are Experiencing Technical Difficulties

2008-04-09T22:14:00.000-06:00

Eventually we will update this with some really interesting news....

Sweepstakes

2008-02-19T21:32:00.000-07:00

Getting butterflies on a Sunday morning when the doorbell rings is not how I planned on starting the Sabbath. We were sleeping in. Unless you are Rusty - who had just made it to his pillow. Anyway, I just knew it was the Sweepstakes! Who else could it be? Side note - I didn't actually send in the entry form. Aren't those things rigged anyway? So back to the morning visitor. I answered the door. Guess what? We won a landslide! Yep. A bonafide disaster in Dean's backyard. For those of you who don't know, we live three doors down from Rusty's parents (whom are on a mission). The family occupants of the house were "unavailable" at the time, so we were the lucky winners of this news. It made me just a little ill to look at all of the mess...and probably because it's just one more project to the pile. Hopefully we can do repairs with justice. Until then, we might really need to send in that envelope to pay for the repairs. Check out the BOSHMA blog for pics.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, Happy Valentine's Day and if applicable, Happy Birthday!

2008-02-14T14:16:00.000-07:00

We've been off the scene for a few month's now. The probing from others has driven me to write. Guilt can be an influential friend.

Anyway, we have been busy with many activities!

The coming week is the indicator that Spring will be here soon. Sports will be scheduled in. It's nearing time to put the garden in. Projects are tugging at the coat tails. I am anxious to see the trees bud out. My jasmine & yellow banks roses will be in bloom. It's an amazing time of year. I love the sights, the smells, the newness.

Hayden & I watched hundreds of birds eat at the berries in front of our window a few weeks ago. It was a flock of American Red Robins (thank you Audobon Field Guide). It was interesting to watch their movements. Frosty even got a kick out of the sight. Although, I think he was imagining a cooked bird on a platter.

We have two movies we are looking forward to, Prince Caspian & Spiderwick Chronicles. We are reading The Chronicles of Narnia at bedtime. The kids beg for more and so we have had some late nights. Another unusual late night occurred. Addie was making a case to stay up late. However, Rusty and I just stood over her with our mouths hanging open. She was cleaning and scrubbing the floor and wanted to get it all done before she went to bed. She will make a great homemaker in the future! I just never thought I would be ready for a child to stop doing chores.

Tanner on the other hand is the main reason anyone would have to stay up and clean. He is doing a superb job at making messes. Primo! He is talking too and making us all laugh.

Carter & McKay are enjoying school. Wait - McKay is enjoying school. Carter - not so much. McKay has a project of his own - the cursed pinewood derby car. Yep, it's that time again. I always sense I should hold a showing of Down and Derby with the parents and talk about what not to do when it comes to such projects. We even have a dad in the troop that uses automotive paint...put on in an automotive shop. You get the idea. It's just a race for boys for heaven's sake! Next year maybe the Elder's Quorom should have a Mormon 500.

Carter is doing well too. Despite school. He is reading a series called Warrior. I am going to have to steal it away from him to read it too. Maybe while he is at Pow-Wow on Saturday!

We are headed to an exhibit in Henderson next week (The da vinci experience) and going tubing at Brianhead. We have a party tomorrow at the park. Oh - let's not forget the Lunar Eclipse on the 20th. We are going to a concert in Cedar City (not the Oak Ridge Boys), a Navy Band Concert...we're going to dress up! Our regular schedule and a visit to the Rec Center and the next few weeks will be completely filled up.

Well, that's the scoop for now. We're off on the next adventure! Dinner.

Elfin Magic!

2007-11-30T21:15:00.001-07:00

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1125941516

Eat your heart out Keeblers!

Elvira, 1981.

2007-11-30T19:46:00.000-07:00

www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VJ6RUmlbLE

Check out the link for a blast from the past.

Oak Ridge Boys or Bust!

2007-11-30T18:59:00.000-07:00

So, we began the Christmas season by joining some family at the local Children's Christmas Festival. They sponsored a lovely concert, the Oak Ridge Boys! When I mentioned where we were going and who we were seeing, Shayla had no idea who these "Legends" were. I guess that dates me. Despite the age infraction against me, we made our way up to Cedar City to participate in the festivities. Low and behold, we were not alone! It soon became old home week as we visited with old friends. It turned out to be a great time, including Elvira (Galyne put on a lovely display of ride the pony). I got out my lasso! It was fun to kick off the time of year and listen to some old tunes. I might even download Golden's songs and share them with the kids. I hope you get a chance to enjoy some Christmas fun too!

They say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one.

2007-11-17T19:31:00.001-07:00

A few pictures that belong in Grandma's wallet/portfolio/bragbook.

2007-11-17T17:37:00.000-07:00

We're Definitely Not the Brady Bunch!

2007-11-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wish for Alice to show up and take care of the piles of...stuff. Apparently, she decided to go with that other family. I guess they paid better.

Another non-similarity is that the Brady's were entirely too happy. Don't get me wrong, I like happy. It's just not that realistic ALL of the time. Maybe the Brady's never had any piles to trip over. Once again, Alice saves the day.

In our own little world we are busy trying to make our own food and do our own laundry. It may sound boring and even a bit mundane. It's really quite satisfying to whittle down the hamper and its collectibles. It's when I have to do it all over again the next hour that frazzles me.

At least the food here isn't bad. My children mentioned the other week that my food was really good. I just wish they would all say it at the same time during the same meal. I love contending with 7 different pallets and 7 different appetites. It's very challenging.

Then there is the issue of keeping up with the general cleaning. I am glad that the term keeping up with the Jones' doesn't apply to cleaning. Even if it does, please don't tell me. The kids came through the door today and wanted to know what the strange smell was (bleach). They also noticed the clean and nearly spotless places that I had been (in vain due to the fact that my children are now all in the house again).

This is my life.

The silver lining is that I know how appreciated I am...or will be. I look at the cherubic faces running around here and feel awfully proud to be a part of this crazy life and realize that I wouldn't want it any other way. I really feel blessed to have such terrific kids and wonderful husband!

So, eat your heart out Mrs. Brady.

But, if any of you hear if Alice comes up for auction and wants to work for really cheap (okay - free), let me know anyway. I could use a vacation.

Insurance Premiums are too low.

2007-11-17T14:16:00.000-07:00

For years the insurance industry has made a mockery of the common people. They have met their match in Tanner. In one week's time he managed to land himself in the ER, the Respiratory Clinic, an actual stay in the Pediatric Wing and a quick visit to Instacare. Thank heavens he didn't have a dentist or a vision appointment scheduled. Anyway, he is doing much better and acts as if nothing ever happened. Though, the bills are starting to add up, he will rest easy tonight. Tanner and his antics can begin again tomorrow. Grandma's, never fear, we are considering stuffing Charmin down his pants for protection!