Wonder

Wonder is about a boy named August who was born with extreme facial deformity. The book is about his first year going to school because he had  been home-schooled his whole life. He is in the 5th grade. This book  is well written. It made me laugh and it made me cry by page 87. The funny thing is I didn't cry over Aggie as much as I did some of the other characters. The themes of not judging others and of always being kind are weaved throughout the book. The author doesn't give explanations for all poor behavior but in reading through the book there are characters you think are mean or selfish that you realize had reasons for their behavior. It reminds me how hard middle school and high school can be, even when you look normal. It reminded me that while there are truly mean and bitter people around, most people are kind-hearted and do want to do what is right, they just sometimes don't know how to or are afraid to step out from the crowd and be that person to say something.

One of my favorite quotes from the book was given by the director of the school to the 5th and 6th graders who were graduating. He gives a quote by J.M. Barrie that is found in 'The Little Bird.' It says, 'Shall we make a new rule  of life...always to try to be a little kinder than is necessary?' He then speaks of a quote from Christopher Nolon in, 'Under the Eye of the Clock.' In this quote a boy named Joseph realized he can recognize the face of God in those who showed him kindness and caring. The school director goes on to say this to his students.
       "If every single person in this room made it a rule that wherever you are,  whenever you can, you will try to act a little kinder than is necessary--the world really would be a better place.  And if you do this, if you act just a little kinder than is necessary, someone else, somewhere, someday, may recognize in you, in every single one of you, the face of God."

If you're looking for a great book--this is one to read.

Silly Boy

 Lucas has hated this winter because even though there isn't much snow--there is snow. Because of the cold and snow he hasn't been able to go out back and play football. One day he was so tired of the snow he went out back and SHOVELED the backyard to make a football field.

It was late when I took these pictures and so they're  a little dark but you can still tell where he shoveled. He is so funny sometimes and we love his determined and stubborn attitude--most of the time.

Catch Up

I haven't posted for so long that to catch up I'll do a quick review of the last few months!

Halloween was lots of fun because the weather was soooo nice and  warm. Lucas was an army guy and Ty was Batman--again. He refused the costume I had planned for him (I don't remember what it was) and at the last minute I ran around the house hunting up all his Batman gear.

Lucas turned 10 years old! He had a family party and then a friends party this year.

The friends party was super easy. We made pizza, they played video games  and football outside, and we ended the night with the 'Candy Bar game'!

We've gotten a little sledding in this year as well.

 Christmas came and went. The boys each got a new scooter and some other fun stuff.

Unfortunately because of the snow the scooters have hung in the garage unused. Hopefully when spring comes we'll have some warmer weather. Lucas favorite gift was a real white football helmet. I don't think Ty had a favorite gift. He just loves everything!

Just Call Me Molly

 Growing up I often fought learning any type of homemaking skill. Just ask my mom who did try at times to teach me. A few years ago I did get a sewing machine. I don't use it often but have attempted a few projects. I remember buying it and thinking of a companion on my mission. She once told me she could see me making dresses for my little girls. I think I laughed in her face. Even if I'd had girls I'm not so sure I would have made them dresses, but I did make a lovely BYU flag that hangs on our home on game day. This year I made a commitment to learn how to can. So I've done salsa, tomatoes, and some strawberry peach jam.

I don't exactly know why my attitude has changed. In thinking about it I don't think I was ever really opposed to doing these things. I just think other things have been more important to me at the time. At least this year I've learned to can and I hope I'll continue to learn new skills and make new goals. Thanks to my mom for the Christmas canner, Angie for helping me with salsa, and Madre for Grandma Foote's jam recipe. Bryan is especially happy about the jam and that makes me happy!

P is for Preschool

A week after Lucas started school Ty started preschool. He loves going three days a week. He has come a long way considering how much he used to hate leaving me. I'm grateful that he still misses me when he is gone or when I am away but that he is also able to go places without me and not have a melt down! He is a loving and bright child, and so much fun to be around.

Home Opener

 We all headed to Provo Thursday night for BYU vs. Washington State. It didn't start until 8:15 and so it was a late one.

Ty made it to the half and then Bryan and I took him home. Lucas stayed with Grandpa Garner for the rest of the game. It's always fun to win the first game of the season!

Tales of Fourth Grade Nothing

Lucas started fourth grade on Tuesday. I wish I could say he was happy to start school but he actually complained a lot on Monday. The most exciting thing for him was wearing the Bulls jersey he bought with the money he earned mowing the lawn.

Our traditional back-to-school cookie. If you can't tell it's a four. Next Thursday I'll be making a P for Ty as he starts pre-school. Ty cries everyday because he WANTS to start school.