Our Life Well Spent

Tradition

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 00:34:00 +0000

Ever since I was a little girl, starting the year I was born, my family would go up to Salt Lake City, stay in the Little America Hotel, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Christmas season. This year was not only the first year I have been since being married, but it is also the first year that I have had the pleasure of going with my husband, and my boys. Sadly, the only pictures we happened to get were those of Temple Square, but when I think about it, I suppose that is the best thing to capture since it demonstrates not only our foundation, but also the reason why the world celebrates Christmas.Here is Bronze getting a little Mama love, while my brother Matthew looks on from behind.Matthew yet again being the best Uncle ever.The Nativity Scene. The tradition was a success, and I think we all are excited to continue this one again next year.

Our Winter Wonderland

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 13:50:00 +0000

This was the sunset before it started to snow. Though it is beautiful,I'm happy to report, that finally we have some snow! So much snow, that John woke up this morning at 5:30am to snow blow the two feet of snow from our driveway. So much snow...that all of John's early morning meetings were canceled - and at 7:15am there is a chance that church will be too. Yet again, I'm grateful for the invention of the snow blower, and also for a husband who willingly uses it. This is a picture looking down our street. You can see as much through this camera as you can in person.Here is our house all covered in snow.This is the sidewalk in front of our houseI guarantee, that by next spring, I'll have the best arms in the state of Utah. These stairs are killer! Notice that the snow next to me comes just below my hip?

In other news, Triton is a photographer. He'll spend countless hours taking random shots of things in the house. Interestingly, all the things are the most important to him... his bed, toys, sippy cups, tv, Bronze, and occasionally his parents. This dandy here, is from his "abstract" period.

The true nature of BronzeNose, and his favorite green hat (which he even sleeps with on)

And his bed with his knee. Its always interesting to see what he captures with the camera.

Last Sunday John and I had the opportunity to go to our church's Christmas Devotional. It was remarkable. Even more breathtaking was hearing MoTab in person. I had chills.

First Weekend of December

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 19:59:00 +0000

We braved the freezing temperatures (literally) and took a hike up to Stewart Falls with the kids and John's classmate Ann in tow.Yeah, it was cold, but that is what made it so much fun. The boys loved it, and to me it finally felt like I was home. To prove just how cold it was, if John of all people has his hood on. Aren't these boys of mine just so handsome?!

I am the luckiest mom ever! Behind us is the frozen Stewart Falls.And here is again my dashing husband letting bronze check out the frozen wonderland. If you haven't hiked in the winter, I think we all would recommend it. It was awesome!

Thanksgiving Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 23:54:00 +0000

The holidays started early this year. John spent 4 hours on the roof putting the lights up.He has since added many more lights to this first picture.

The weekend was off to a great start when my brother brought up my Christmas tree from our farm. I am thrilled to have it up here. The whole house smells so good.Looks small and insignificant right?still doesn't look that impressiveThat's more like it... this is my brother who is 6'2''. Our bad boy tree is huge! We had to cut a foot off the bottom and two off the top just to get it to not look like the Griswold tree - and even then it still doesn't come to a point. But, we LOVE it!

Hail Ceasar for bringing up the tree!The three amigosThen came our Thanksgiving feast. I think this year was the best I have ever had - EVER! Amazing food, and perfect company.

My beautiful cousins Brittnie & KortnieAnd their baby sister Tiffanie.AND my baby brother Matthew turned 12.The other three amigos couldn't withstand the narcotic powers of the turkey, and passed out on the bed.

Just you Wait!

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:55:00 +0000

Those are the words I'm confronted with by every Utah resident who happens to hear my disdain for the warm weather we're experiencing. Its already November 20th, and its 55 degrees outside. Shouldn't it be starting to look like winter outside and stay that way when it does? Where's the snow? Where's the weather that I have to wear a coat to go outside and enjoy...and of course, gloves, boots, and a hat. I've been waiting 4 years for cold weather, and I think we may have brought the sunshine with us. I checked the forecast for the week. Its supposed to be 39 tomorrow iwth a chance of snow and then high 40's to mid-50's the rest of the week. Yes, this is a gripe fest, but I believe I am entitled to it, especially after waiting so patiently for the cold to appear. I'm hoping that by posting this the weather will dramatically degrade and leave me sitting in a blizzard... doubt that will actually happen though.

I'm at a loss for words

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:50:00 +0000

I mean, really, what can you say to something like that?? If you want to find out what your favorite is, go here.

Going back in time

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:59:00 +0000

Or at least that is what it feels like when you go back through every one of your blog posts until you get to the beginning. It is really strange to go back and see pictures of Triton when he was the only child. To me it feels like Bronze has always been around - it seems surreal to think that there was one time when he wasn't around - Triton too for that matter.Its unfair that time passes so quickly, and we can't notice it until the moments past. But, I guess that just means we'll have to have more fun while the moment is here. Today we went to the zoo. Triton was so sad because the train was closed for the day. On the way home he cried saying, "Mama, train closed for a whole year! sob, sob sob" Don't know where he learned that expression, and I really doubt he even knows how long a year is. But still, it was funny.

snow day

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:40:00 +0000

We've just been enjoying the cold weather. Seriously, its nice to have a change of season after so long of not having one. The boys have particularly loved wearing warm clothes with their "globies" (gloves)When not outside, Triton really loves hanging out with his dad watching movies.Last week we were really excited when it started to snow.John taught Triton how to make snow angels - which he now tries to make on the carpet too.

Bronze experienced snow for the first time, and loved it. He is particularly fond of putting snow on an unsuspecting person's face.
Triton warming up in the tub after a good bout of snow playing, he even tries to make snow angels in there too. Then the snow melted and we had this spectacular view of Utah Valley.

New York & Boston

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:14:00 +0000

Somehow my trip to New York just seems like a blur. I flew in to Albany because someone I know booked my ticket to NY for November and not October. So, we had to scramble and find a way for me to get there. I flew to Albany, arrived late at night, shuttled to a hotel, then took a 5:10am train to New York City. Can I just say, that the city hasn't changed at all in 5 years. It is exactly as we left it.As soon as I got there, I went to breakfast at one of my favorite little cafés, Europan. It was awesome. And I've never had watermelon on my waffles before but it was surprisingly good.
I went to Ellis Island for the first time. It was really interesting to see the place, and hear the stories and history that went along with it. It made me grateful that I didn't have to pass through there to get to America.
After lunch and shopping I went to the most amazing exhibit I think I've ever seen. It was Discovery's Titanic exhibit. Oh man, I guess I'm speechless upon recollection. Here is the reconstructed staircase which they would let you take your picture on, but you had to of course buy their photographers picture to do so. Also they had reconstructed staterooms for first and third class - as well as artifacts brought up from the ocean floor. It was strange seeing people's written letters, suitcases, shoes, and clothes - especially those belonging to people who died so tragically during that doomed voyage. It made it feel almost even more tragic.Here is the one and only picture of me. I got this new plaid coat - I am in LOVE! Then I encountered my second great love Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Seriously, Blueberry lemonade is something to dream about. I'm hoping I can recreate it for our Thanksgiving smorgasbord.
After one day in New York City, I was ready to move on, and I caught a train up to Boston to see John and his sister Sherri 's family. Sherri was sweet enough to not only host me, but to also play tour guide. We started out in Boston Commons and then went along The Freedom Trail. Here was this super old cemetery holding, Paul Revere, John Hancock, Samuel Adams, and Ben Franklins parents among others. I love history, and the east coast is just loaded with it. I was in heaven yet again.
Here is my nephew Henry, whom I've officially named, Hankie Doodle.The next morning, Sherri took me out to Plimoth Plantation. It was so cool to be in an area where people are completely in character of the pilgrims, but also to see the way the pilgrims lived. I don't think I'd have liked it. The dirt floors in the houses were enough to deter any pilgrimish fantasy I may have been prone to create.
Also showcased there, was another great love of mine - carpentry!Um, Yeah, this chair was made by handas were these decorative carvings.I really think Massachusetts looks exactly like I always thought it would. That said, I can't think of a better setting for the Salem Witch Trials... and I saw all these places during the day. Instantly images of swamp monsters in the dark filled my head. Anyway, its awesome. Here are Sherri, Henry, and baby Amelia checking out some sheep (that actually had long tails - weird)Then we went to the Mayflower II. Yet again, I am reminded just how lucky I am to not have to travel in the ways the poor people of the past did. Here's the crow's nest
And here is the ship.Then it was time to go meet John at Harvard. Why on earth, every time you mention the school, do people assume this phoney Brahmin accent and say it Havud? The whole time I was there I never once heard ANYONE say it like that, much to my disappointment. Here is the view from John's window. I loved to sit here in the morning and watch the rowing teams doing their practices. You can also see Harvard's team boathouse on the other side of the river in this picture.Harvard has without a doubt the most beautiful campus I have ever seen, regardless of the fact that its fall and the trees are breathtaking.
And here is where I spent the rest of my vacation, perfectly cozy, and lacking all desire to go anywhere else. I sat in John's room, alone, watching Ghost Hunters for two days straight. And before I get any flack from anyone, envision yourself being completely alone with no responsibilities, no kids, no husband, and able to do whatever you want, and for the first time in years, feel completely relaxed. If you still have input after that glorious vision, then you are welcome to leave your comments or suggestions.
Now I'm home, and finally back with my boys, and life is wonderful. The trip was awesome, I had a great time, but I'm happy to be back.

Look into my eyes

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 14:43:00 +0000

My mom was kind enough to dig up these old photobooth strips.

My mom and I both agreed, Triton has one Major Similarity to his mom.

Can you see it? Actually, it really freaks me out sometimes when I look at him and he pulls a look using my same eyes. I guess having kids can do that to you sometimes.

Life of a Mother

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:04:00 +0000

If anything, the life of a mother is anything but dull. Yes, there are moments where it may be routine, or monotonous might be a better word. But yet, everyday I am always surprised by the unexpected.

Sometimes one just wants to be held, and only the mama will do. Rare moments like these I feel that I could bask in forever. There is nothing sweeter than snuggling with your babies, especially when they snuggle back.

Other times I feel like I can't possibly go on supervising the constant chaos without taking a little nap first...this was most definitely one of those moments.

This is me pretending to be aware enough to be watching my boys jump off the couch and avoid disaster.

But Bronze -look at that little demon face, while the big brother watches and laughs- is always eager to remind me that chaos will not be ignored due to my exhaustion - greedily taking the opportunity to not so gently yank my hair out, roots and all. Ah yes, motherhood can be tedious, but it will catch you off guard - and frequently too.

Farewell...for now

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 01:55:00 +0000

Our last night in Monticello with my grandma was spent making chocolate chip zucchini cake and banana bread.Its always amazing to me how the certain smells can instantly take you back to your childhood. Now, I am reliving my childhood with a child of my own.And I can't think of a better way to share these memories and moments with him than back in grandma's kitchen eating cake batter.

My little ruffian

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 17:36:00 +0000

There is just something about Bronze, that I can't quite put my finger on. He is abnormally agile, active, and athletic. These attributes among many others, cause Bronze to be hurt - a lot. The most recent of his injuries is this.His right eye is black, I have no idea how he did this, he didn't have it when he woke up and an hour later there it was with no whining or crying. Secondly, is his swollen fat lip, which is gouged from the outside all the way in to his first set of molars. Poor Bronze. Its been suggested that we should buy him a helmet and set of protective pads since this is probably only the beginning of this guys injuries.

Dirt & Roots

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 21:15:00 +0000

The boys have been loving their time in Southeastern Utah. More specifically, they have loved getting dirty.And, eating the apples off my grandmas trees. I must say that Red Delicious apples taste no where even close to what the original heirloom variety does (which of course is one of my grandma's trees) it makes me, and Bronze, wonder why they ever changed it.We went out to the farm to post a sign

While Craig, my brother, welded away

Triton and I meandered,Ate pizza,Looked for Lizards,And finally got my boots dirty.

Bronze slept in the car,and was rudely awoken by his mother so he could join us in our push through the trees.During this excursion, Triton decided that those dang chipmunks are pretty dang scary. Craig had to carry him, so the "squirrels" wouldn't bite him... not that they even tried. It looks like Triton is well on his way to developing quite the imagination.I decided packing Bronze on my shoulders was much easier than carrying him. Though he isn't afraid of the chipmunks too, he doesn't walk very soundly - the thought of him falling into a wild patch of cactus was all the incentive I needed to carry him the whole way (I'd guess two miles)

You can kind of see the remnants of the old Pony Express station at our place. I'd love to go out there with a metal detector one day and see what I could possibly come up with.

This is what Triton looked like half way through our tree push. I wonder if how dirty a boy is, is a good indicator of how much fun he's having? Dirt was everywhere, even blown in his eye by the wind. My personal favorite is the fact his eyelashies are dusted with dirt.

Triton also likes to give himself tattoos on the forehead - while, of course, wearing safety glasses to make sure he doesn't slip and get himself in the eye.

And he likes it when his Mama is a little goofy

AH, this picture gives me the most perfect idea for a Halloween costume, Gene Simmons from Kiss...now i need to figure out where I can get 12 inch platform knee boots...Bronze, on the other hand, is not beguiled by his mother's craziness, and is happy to destroy his great-grandma's chair by pushing the chair back out.I was so excited to watch the special between Sunday General Conference sessions featuring the story of The Hole in the Rock trail. My ancestors were on that trek. More importantly, I was so proud to see my grandma talking about it, and about the Bluff Fort she's been working so hard to restore for most of my life.

It was awesome to go back and see what she's been able to do. Obviously, these pictures do not do it justice.This is my several great-grandpa's house who came with the pioneers in the Martin Handcart Company, and then on through the Hole in the Rock Trail to settle Bluff. Its always humbling to see what people went through for the sake of offering something better to their posterity. I am honored by their sacrifices.

Next door to the fort is a giant Black and Tan Coonhound that I have to admit, I am completely smitten with; all the more so, for its constant bawling. Triton and Bronze shared my love, and spent most of their time admiring the magnificent animal. Truth be told, I always wanted a black and tan coonhound, specificially when I was a Sophomore in high school. Perhaps this dog may have just reignited my desire for this creature. Poor, poor John is all I can offer him for the upcoming begging sessions he''ll have to endure.After the dog, that adorable thing, the boys loved playing in the old (original) Barton cabin.And then, it was time to go back to grandma's house in Monticello.

Cereal and Snow

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:54:00 +0000

The boys love to eat Lucky Charms - In my bed, of courseWhat is especially great is that Bronze only likes the marshmallows and throws the other peices away... which are discovered when I am going to bed.
At about 9 am this morning it started snowing. It was very small little flakes at first
Which then turned into dense, wet, giant flakesTriton loved it
And then decided later he was mad about his pants being wet and started to cry, which then of course made Bronze decide to cry.An hour later, this is what the yard looked like. That's not even the best part though. It was only supposed to rain this morning, and snow in the mountains this afternoon! Which means, there'll be more snow this afternoon! Ah, seriously, I may be crazy, but this weather is perfect.

Family Outing

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:24:00 +0000

We went to the zoo on Saturday. John leaves this upcoming Saturday for Boston for three weeks, so we're trying to find things to do together before he leaves. A trip to the zoo just wouldn't be complete without carousel rides.Triton chose the zebra, and Bronze got to be on an anteater. Which makes me laugh even to think about.Bronze was funny, because I think he was kind of afraid of it all. He had bare feet, and used those things to wrap around as much of the body of this anteater as he could. He has long skinny feet, which managed to do a great job of giving him extra hold during the ride.

Two handsome boysIsn't my new agate necklace just wonderful? Its my new favorite thing

TV is a Teaching Tool

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:54:00 +0000

Who ever said that TV was good for nothing was wrong. Today, I asked Triton if he wanted a cookie (the scouts and I made them last night) which of course he did. While I made the boys lunch, Triton sat at the bar studying his cookie. Then I hear a little voice speak up, "Mama, C is for cookie and cookie starts with C." To which, I smiled, burst into song with the actual Cookie Monster song, and he and Bronze danced. So to all you anti-kids-watching-tv-ers --

wienie roast

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:02:00 +0000

We are so lucky to live so close to the mountains. On Saturday night we went with our neighbors up through American Fork Canyon and did some tin foil dinners and hot dogs. I am happy to exclaim, that I had the first tinfoil dinner of my life that night! It was awesome. But, perhaps a little too fancy for the occasion. I created this tin of sheer awesomeness in the form of chicken, potatoes, peas, onions, and toasted pecans, all inside of a cream like gravy. Truly awesome! But maybe next time I'll so something much simpler.
Triton loved roasting marshmallows. In this particular picture he had just realized that his mellow was on fire and was shaking it to get it out, while also watching these two dogs at our neighboring fire pit.
Triton (gray), Bronze (red), and Annika definitely kept themselves busy. They also managed to unearth something decomposing - which resulted in us moving sites quickly. John was the ever amazing and managed to transfer our coals from one pit to another. How he did it, well, its a mystery for only the most experienced.

yada yada yada

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:11:00 +0000

I wish I could say that something cool was happening in our lives. Sadly, nope, you're all stuck with the same old same old around here. Which, secretly, I like.
In a couple weeks, John will be going for round two at Harvard. This is especially exciting for me because I get to go meet him there. I haven't been on a real vacation since before Triton was born! The best part of all of this though, is that I'm going to be in New York City for two days before that, ALL ALONE! I am almost overcome with the thought of being able to come and go as I please, with only myself to think about. I think at the top of my list is to simply go to the MET, and see everything I want to, even if its all day long. Because with only me along, I could have the best vacation imaginable. Imagine it, being able to see only the things that interest you. Being able to taste the foods that were once your favorite. And sleeping until you feel like waking up. As for restaurants, I'd really love to find a place that serves the delicious combo of Chicken and Waffles. Don't hate it until you try it. I promise, it will be one of the best things you've ever tasted. So, that's the update for now I suppose.

Responsibility

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:25:00 +0000

Every Wednesday night, I have the responsibility, no privilege, of having about 7 10 year olds run a muck in my house, and entertain my two boys. If you're still wondering why I have this honor, I must simply say that, Yes, I am the Webelos leader.Last night for our activity, besides playing dodgeball, was to make puppets and then give a puppet show. One forgets how creative 10 year olds can be, especially with their improv skits. I'll simply say, they are always entertaining.Here are my puppets - A germ, and some kind of fire beastAfter our activity, the boys play rugby, football, dodgeball, or soccer in the backyard. Triton and Bronze love when the scouts are over. And for me, its like free babysitting! Triton makes it a point to give each one of them a hug and exclaim, "come in!" as soon as the doorbell rings.Maybe it was being inadvertently tackled during the football game, or maybe it was having to sit and allow me to take a picture of his cupcake mug - either way, Triton wasn't too happy - obviously.

The best part of scouts for everyone, is probably the treats. Last night we had chocolate cupcakes. Really, is there anything better than a cupcake?I'm 99% sure Bronze agrees with me.

Labor Day

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:40:00 +0000

was truly a day of labor. At least for John. Here is what he single handedly did while I fie-fied around the house. . .
Thank you John for being such a hardworking, loving husband. I know he did this for me. . . and my future dog. Or at least that is what he said. In other words, it was for me!

Can you Feel it?

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 15:42:00 +0000

There is a certain smell and feel to fall. The sun changes position, the days become shorter, and there is a very distinct smell. Fact is, to this day, my brother and friend let me know as soon as it smells like "hunting" outside. FYI- there is a very distinct smell to hunting season, one that I can't quite describe, but everyone who has been knows exactly what I'm talking about. Since we live at the meager elevation of 6600 feet, the oak trees have started to change leaves further signaling its my favorite time of year! One more reason why I am so happy to be in an area that has seasons.

Restraint

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 13:37:00 +0000

This week I was going to buy this little guy here. Well, he's not very little. But, the point is, I didn't. I reigned in my instant smitteninity for this guy and decided that it would be best to get another one from the same parents from the next litter in the spring. Ah, I still have a little bit of angst when I look at him though. Anyway, the ONLY reason why is, I figure you must have a fenced yard before getting a dog, and well ours wont be done in time to get him. Plus, this way I can ask for Santa to bring me a really great carpet cleaner for Christmas in preparation for his arrival. Despite my attempt to be 'in control', poor John still has to deal with me at least once a day saying that we should go get him. Yeah, Im still greatly tempted... perhaps temptation might win out in the end, but I'm really trying for it to not.

Growing Out

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:55:00 +0000

This morning was tinged with a feeling of sadness. Bronze is growing up. I tenderly folded and stored away the clothes he's out grown. And then came, replenishing his drawers with the clothes that Triton out grew too quickly. Growing up seems to have such a cruel irony to it. There are times, I can't wait for my boys to grow up; mirrored by those moments where I wish I could stop time and keep them just the way they are.Why can't they just stay little a little longer?

(This is Triton when he was about two months old)
Or, why can't I savor every moment with them while they are the way they are? I suppose this is the desire of all parents.

Sad Goodbye

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 20:00:00 +0000

My friend Lisa managed to stop by for a visit before she moved to San Jose. Its ironic, we kept trying to get together when she was in the bay for the summers and it never happened. And just as soon as I move here, she of course, had to move there. Ah, its such a cruel irony. I made lunch up at my house for her and our bestest buddy Anne. Cucumber, Avocado, and Tomato sandwiches - my absolute favorite sandwich. As I side note, I'm thinking of starting a cooking blog - comments or suggestions?I can already hear the lecture that my dad's going to give me for cutting on the counters. If it is so bad Dad, then I think you should just get me another cutting board! Anne had minor surgery on her hand a few days before. The best part of lunch, was having to cut her sandwich into 4ths, pour her drinks for her, and help her get watermelon on her plate. It was just like being little kids again. Lisa was busy behind the camera and we didn't get a picture with her- possibly the lamest thing I've heard in a long time. Good luck in San Jose Lisa! We'll miss you, and hope you come to visit again soon!Also, thanks for taking all the great pictures for me at my anniversary dinner. I would have nothing but blurry memories without you!
(Whitney Shaw Olsen, Anne Carter Johnson, me, and Lisa Michelle Horton Schader)