{Camping Trip with a Mean, Mean Mommy}

Some of our friends had plans to go camping this weekend and invited us along. But, seeing as how it was Jamboree week and it's busy at the garage, we figured there was no way to fit it in. Well, their plans changed at the last minute and they were camping a lot closer, Derrick ended up getting Saturday off and we got to go.... Yippie! We ended up just going over to Kanosh canyon Saturday morning and meeting Brandon and Christie's family and James and Kami and their family. James is Derrick's cousin and they have been best friends forever and Brandon is a friend from high school. Since it was a last minute thing, I was rushing trying to get everything packed. I made the boys a list of what they needed, and told them to go pack their bags. The list included pants, shirts, socks, EXTRA SHOES, etc. We got there, set up, spent the day riding four-wheelers and hanging out. The kids (between us all there were 9 kids and ours were the oldest) played really well together and had a lot of fun. There was a creek pretty close to our camp and we kept telling the kids not to go down there. Well, Kaleb didn't listen and went down the steepest way he could find and slid into the water. Thank goodness the water wasn't moving fast and there wasn't all that much, but his shoe got stuck in the mud and came off. (Here is where the mean, mean mommy part comes in). We told him he needed to find his shoe. He look for 5 min. or so, and just kept getting more upset with us for making him look. For some reason, it was cracking me up so I got out the camera and set it on video, mean I know. But really, it was funny! Finally we gave up and let him get out, but he never did find his other shoe. When I showed him the video, he looked at me and said "You better NOT put that on your blog!" I told him I was indeed planning on it and he gave me a dirty look and yelled "YOU are a MEAN, MEAN Mommy!" Maybe I am, but I couldn't help it, for some reason, it's hilarious to me! especially when he yells, "You could get in the truck and go buy me some shoes," and "What if a water snake bites me?" Oh, did I forget to mention that the one item on the list he failed to pack happened to be EXTRA SHOES? Yep, he spent the entire next day without any shoes!

Other than the shoe incident we had a fun time, and it was nice to get away and have a BREAK!

{ABC's of ME}

A - Age: 33...as of today!
B - Bed size: King...How did we sleep in a full the first few years we were married???

C - Chore you hate: bathrooms & laundry (I really don't mind laundry if I keep up on it).
D – Dessert: MMMM, sugar cookies, cherry pie, actually, I'll eat almost any dessert!
E - Essential to start your day: Enough sleep, I'm not very pleasant if I miss out on sleep.
F - Favorite flower: Daisy's & Sunflowers
G- Gold or Silver: Silver or White Gold
H - Height: 5'5"
I - Instruments you play(ed): Piano... but not well, even after years and years of lessons.
J - Job you had in high school: Duanes Foodtown
K - Kid(s): Brock~9, Kaleb~7, Carlie~ 3 1/2
L - Lunch spots: Cluffs....and Cluffs with the girls is even better.
M - Mom's Name: Carlene (Carlie is named after my mom)
N - Newest item bought: I just 5 min. ago bought me a new swimsuit bottom.
O - Overnight hospital stay: 3 babies and one nasty kidney stone.
P - Pet Peeve: Lateness
Q - Quote from a movie: Ummm? You're father's been damaged! Hehe.
R - Right or left handed: Right, but somehow both our boys are lefties.
S - Siblings: a younger sis, Lisa and two younger brothers, Shad & Kyle.
T - Time you wake up: 6:45
U - Underarm deodorant?: Ummm, YEA!
V - Very surprising fact: I once testified at a preliminary hearing for a murder trial.
W - Ways you run late: I try my best to never be late... see P above!
X - X-rays you've had: Teeth and cat scan for that monster kidney stone.
Y - Yummy food you make: Pie crust, Lasagna, and Derrick likes my Chicken Broccoli Casserole.
Z - Zoo animal: Giraffes

Tag, You're it!

{Summer Fun}

WOW! Is it just me or is summer busy for everyone else? I can't seem to find time to blog lately, even thought we've had some fun stuff going on.

Last night Brock had the Rocket Derby at Cub Scouts. Of course we put off making the rocket until the night before and were still finishing it up an hour before it started. Brock was a bit disappointed, because his rocket hit the end pretty hard on his first run and the nose cracked, and on the second run it completely broke. Brock made his rocket to look like a space shuttle and on the way home decided to name it "The Challenger".

Derrick has been busy with the National ATV Jamboree here in town this week. People come from all over to ride in and around our little town! They also need their bikes fixed, which is where the busy part for Derrick comes in. Before and after the rides everyday, the garage gets pretty busy. It hasn't been all work, he has taken a few chances to play, while guiding two rides. Each of the boys got to skip school one day and go with him. Brock is excited to watch "Roughin' it Outdoors" on Saturday night, he's sure he is going to be on the show. They filmed a bit at Dearden Equipment while he was there, and also interviewed Derrick's dad. We keep telling him that they film a lot, and use a little, but he is sure they will use the part he's in!

Carlie has been my little helper while the boys have been at summer school. Yesterday she "cleaned" my room and made my bed while I was drying my hair (it was a bit lumpy and crooked, but the pillows were all on right). She was pretty proud of herself, and I thought it was pretty cute....well, until it took me 10 min to find my cell phone and credit card!

We had a good Father's day and got to visit with both Derrick's dad and my dad for a bit. When we got home from Church I sent Brock to change his clothes. He took awhile and when he came up, he didn't have a shirt on. He hung his head and told me I was going to be mad at him. When I asked why, he held up his t-shirt that he had written "Happy Father's Day" on! What a cutie!

Last but not least, last weekend was the Annual Beckstrand Reunion! Someone said that the first official reunion was held in 1960 something, but they remembered some before that! Friday evening we had a BBQ at the Meadow park. Saturday morning starts with a 5k race. It's been years since I participated in this (and NO I never ran, always walked) maybe next year I'll have to try and go. They even have a spreadsheet with the finishing results and participants for the last 30+ years. The program portion starts out with a few numbers by the Beckstrand family band (anyone who plays an instrument). This year was pretty sad, only 3 members participated. Next is a talent show, followed by family business. Last but not least is dinner, games and races at the park. Fun Times.... I hope you're all enjoying summer!

{Mr. Beckstrand...Teacher, Friend, Example}

Last night we traveled to Beaver, as a family to celebrate a special occasion. After 32 years of teaching my dad, Mr. Beckstrand, retired! I can't even begin to imagine the number of lives he touched over those years, and he remembers each student, by name, and can tell you stories about most of them. He began his teaching career in Heber City, teaching fourth grade. From there he moved to Fillmore, where he has taught everything from fourth grade, to pre-algebra, to computers, he spent over 15 years in the library and then taught the last two in 6th grade. When we lived in Santaquin, I was talking to my friend Stefany one day who mentioned that she grew up in Heber. I told her we had lived there when I was young and my dad taught Elementary there. I had to laugh when she said, I don't remember a Mr. Dearden. When I told her my dad was actually Mr. Beckstrand, she couldn't believe it, my dad was her 4th grade teacher. I called my dad to tell him and he proceeded to tell me a story about her...more then 25 years later.

I was lucky enough to have my dad as my 8th grade pre-algebra teacher and also for computers. It wasn't always easy having my dad for a teacher, but I and thankful for that experience, I learned so much from him. This is a little excerpt from a letter I wrote him. "As it came time for me to have you as a teacher, I mistakenly figured that since you knew I was horrible at Math, you would most likely give me a break? I couldn't’t have been more wrong. You pushed me, and giving up or slaking wasn’t an option. I remember getting a 90% on a test and thinking, “Hey it’s an A, sweet!” When the time came for a retake, I didn’t even consider taking it again, why would I? I had an A. You asked everyone who wanted to take the test again to raise their hands and you would pass back test for them. When the tests got to the end of my row, there was an extra. I still remember your answer when the student at the back said our row had an extra test, “That one is Monica’s.” I could tell by your look that I wouldn’t be arguing and I would be taking the retake. It may have taken a few more years for that lesson to sink in, but I knew you expected me to do my best and keep working until I did."
Can I just tell you how nice it was to enjoy a dinner, without the kids crying and whining. I have to shout out a big thanks to my Skyler and her friend Tori, they watched all eight of the grand kids for four hours! And If you ever get a chance to stop at the Timberline in Beaver, do it! Everything was spectacular. The owners are family friends, and Kris even left a sweet gift and card on the table for my dad since she knew we were coming!

Derrick & I
Jeremy & Lisa
My brother Shad and his wife Julia

My brother Kyle and his wife Katy

Robert & Carlene

(aka~Mom & Dad)

My sweet Grandparents, Harold & NaDean

We wanted to do something special to celebrate this occasion, and to let my dad know just how much he influenced so many lives. We contacted some of his past students and asked them to write their memories of Mr. Beckstrand, or Mr. B as many called him. As each letter or email came in I repeatedly found myself in tears, everyone had such nice things to say and such great memories. I was so touched to watch my dad flip through this book of memories. As he opened it and saw a letter from one of the students from his class this year he teared up, as he flipped through each page and saw the names of those that contributed he cried a bit more. I know there are so many that we missed, if you are one of them and would like to add something, you are more than welcome to send it to me and I'll make sure it gets added.

My brother Shad put it so well, when he said, "You have benefited many lives through your chosen career. If I could be as well respected as you, I would consider myself very fortunate and successful."

I spent some time looking through the stacks of his school pictures yesterday, and I had to share some. I also couldn't help but add some of the thoughts past students expressed, I hope none of them mind.

"I just have to say I know that I was so lucky to have you as a teacher and I am so lucky to have you as an amazing Uncle who I love so MUCH!"~ Jaime Rose Beckstrand

"I have always appreciated those that have helped me along my journey in life, and I would have to say that Mr. B would be one of the people on the top of my list of being the most influential to me. Thank you for a job well done, you have touched many lives during your career as an educator. Thank you for touching mine. You made me want to be a better person."~ Dr. Darrin Cummings

"So to you Mr. Beckstrand... Thank You for lending a helping hand to critique the misspelled words and encourage the imagination. Although we didn't work closely everyday, it really is the little things that make a difference."~ Kerra Waters Ryan

“I may not remember what you taught me, but I will remember how you treated me.” He treated all of his students with respect. He was so patient and kind."~ Shiela Lund Sheriff

"I just wanted to let you know that I think you are an awesome educator. I know you have done so much for all the students who have been in your classes. One thing I have always noticed about you is that you never lose your temper. You are always so calm and reasonable even when students stand on their desks!" (there is a great story that goes along with this, I may just have to share it sometime)~ Wendy Olsen Ashman

"It has been many years since I was a student at Fillmore Middle School, but every time I see Mr. Beckstrand I go back in my mind to grade school, and to my friend, and the positive impact that he had on me in my life. My school experience, nor my life would be the same without Mr. Beckstrand." ~ James Monroe

"I, too, chose education as a career, partly because of his influence I'm sure. In my years as an educator I have taught with, evaluated and interviewed hundreds of teachers. Without question, Mr Beckstrand is one of the best. People are given certain talents in life for a reason. God has a plan for all of us. I am so glad that Mr. Beckstrand realized what his talent and plan was. His influence for good on the young people of Wasatch and Millard counties could never be measured. It is infinite in nature and will continue on long after he retires and even after he leaves this earth."~ Paul Sweat

"I can honestly say that I always have been, and still am to this day, proud to be Mr. Beckstrand's girl! I feel lucky to not only have had you as a teacher in the classroom, but throughout my life. You are a great example to not only me, but also my children and my husband. Congratulations!"~Monica Beckstrand Dearden

"To Teach is to Touch a Life Forever!"

{Little Leauge~2009}

Tonight was the last game of the Little League season for my boys, all my boys! Brock and Kaleb both played coach pitch this year and Derrick was their coach. Every other year the boys get to play on the same teams together, and I love it when that happens. I also love that Derrick is willing to coach their team, what a great memory for the boys.... baseball with your dad!

Kaleb ~ 7 years
Brock ~ 9 years

(Yep, Brock is a lefty. Actually, Kaleb is too, but for some reason Kaleb doesn't throw or hit left handed?)

Brewers ~ 2009

{Introducing Chevy}

We have a new addition at our house...... Chevy the puppy. Chevy is a 6 week old black lab puppy and even though I'm not much of a dog girl, I do have to say she is adorable! We kind of got tricked into getting her by two of Derrick's students. They asked him if he wanted one of their puppies, and he kind of blew them off, telling him he had to talk to me. Well, they took that as a yes, and when they came for parent teacher conference, mom was excited we were taking a puppy. She said even if we decided not to, they'd drop it off with a bow as a "thanks for being a nice teacher" gift. I guess our kids are at a good age to learn some responsibility, so we decided to go for it!

Kaleb, Brock, Chevy & Carlie

This was one of the few seconds she wasn't being mauled, oops, I mean loved by the kids.
Kaleb is especially in love with her....look at that grin!

She really is a cute puppy, but I wish she could stay just that, a puppy..... I like puppies much more than dogs, that cute little face and all that saggy loose skin. Hopefully she'll start to like her kennel soon and stop crying. What an adventure this is going to be!

{A Camping We Will Go....}

A camping we will go, off into the mountains- a camping we will go!

This last weekend was the annual Beckstrand family camp out! We go at different times every year, and each of us takes a turn being in charge and picking our spot, but every year we go and every year we have fun! This year it was my brother Shad and his wife Julia's turn and they chose...

Tropic Reservoir
Derrick and the boys had been there before, but the rest of us hadn't. I was seriously wondering about their choice as we drove the entire way into a headwind. Once we got there and got settled it turned out to be a great spot, even though it was a bit chilly!

This was the first real camping trip we've taken in our new trailer, and I have to say it was a big improvement! I was especially thankful for the heater and the hot water. Brock spent the first night in a tent with his cousin Carson and everyone had their own beds and the extra room was spectacular. Carlie loves her bed and woke up both mornings with crazy hair. We all split up the meals and it was so great to only have to cook once, actually I just had to help a bit, since Derrick made omelets for us all, another thing that I think has become a tradition.

We all split up a bit on Saturday, part of us going on a hike and the other going down to the lake to fish. Brock and Kaleb both caught fish of differing sizes, and they were both happy with them. Derrick cooked them up and that was their lunch. (We probably wouldn't have kept Brock's but it swallowed the hook) We all split up again that afternoon, some of us napping, others reading, riding four-wheelers or playing games.

What sweet (but dirty) little girlies!
Tylie, Kamryn, Carlie & Addison

And the silly (and dirty) boys!

Kaleb, Brock, Bryson & Carson

My mom and dad have 4 grandsons, and then 4 granddaughters. Shad and Julia are expecting....wonder what the tie breaker baby will be?

The Entire Fam-Damily

Robert (aka Dad), Carlene (aka Mom) Shad, Julia, Kamryn, Bryson, Kyle, Katy, Brock, Tylie, Carson, Lisa, Jeremy, Kaleb, Addie, Mo, Derrick and Carlie

Derrick and I

Me and Lis

I really didn't want Carlie's cast to get all dirty, since she has to keep it on for 3 1/2 more weeks, so we wrapped it with and ace bandage. It still got a bit dirty around her hand, but for the most part it worked wonderfully!

And here we are all hooked up and ready to go home! That's quite the load wouldn't you say? I have the best family and I really love spending time with them.....I'm already looking forward to next year!

{Crash!}

I think we may just have to start calling Carlie, CRASH! We spent part of yesterday at the hospital again, and yes, that would be our second trip in less than a month with the same child! While Derrick and I worked at the park yesterday morning, Carlie was playing and fell out of a swing face first. At first I was mostly worried that she may have a head injury, she fell pretty hard, right on her face. Her poor mouth and nose were full of dirt and she had a pretty good scrape on her nose and lip too. But then I notice that her wrist was a bit swollen and she didn't want me to touch it, so off we went to the clinic for xrays.

This was the look I got when I told her to smile? You can kind of see where the swelling is in her left wrist.

Unfortunately they had to try and squeeze us in, so we knew it could be a long wait. We finally just went over to the hospital and met the doctor in the hall and he checked it quick and sent us for an xray. The xray tech was Derrick's cousin Shelly and Carlie wanted nothing to do with her! I went down the hall to check her in while they started her xrays and she started screaming. I could hear her all the way down the hall, crying for mommy, and I have to admit that got me teary. From there it was back the clinic to wait some more.

I felt so bad for her, she was in pain and super tired. She finally laid down on the table and fell asleep, and wouldn't you know not five minutes later the Doctor came in. We checked out the xrays and saw that she had a buckle fracture in both the bones just above the wrist. She choose pink for her cast, but when he went to get it, they were all out, so she settled for purple. I have to say she did really good while he did the first part of the cast, but then I think it started to hurt her and she started to cry. By the time he finished she was sobbing and ready to go home. They brought us a dose of Motrin for the pain, which she decided she didn't want and she spit it out all down the front of my shirt. By that point we had been there for three and a half hours and she was beyond worn out! As soon as we got in the truck she was out, and that little nap did wonders!
She woke up happy and ready to show off her new accessory! Aunt Lis brought her balloons, "lips" (princess chap stick) and a coloring book and crayons and her cousins Addie and Kamryn brought her some candy too. But the day caught up to her and by 6:00 she had fallen asleep again!
Isn't that the most adorable picture? I just love it! You can see her scraped nose and a little bit of the swelling. It's worse today and pretty black and blue, poor thing! Bath time this morning was a joke, she hated the bag on her arm and was very grumpy about it. I'm afraid we are in for a long 4 weeks!

{It's all about RED}

If I had to pick a favorite color, it would have to be RED. Not that don't like other colors, I just like red a little better than all the others and I don't like red for everything, but most of the time I love it. Almost every room in my house has red in it, and my kitchen walls have been red in all 3 of the houses we've owned. I love it!

Well, I've been desperately needing change in the hair department. I've had the same cut (with little variations) for at least 2 years, and that is an eternity for me, but I just haven't been able to come up with anything I like better. My solution? Add some funky RED highlights....Wahoo! Can I just say I love that my littlest brother married a beautician? Katy is the best and I've always been happy with whatever she does, and this time was no exception!

Not the best picture I know, but at least you can see the actual color. Ignore the funky sweeping hairline cowlick, sometimes I can work with it and others, not so much! Anyway, just imagine that you can see all the other highlights spread throughout all my hair.

So of course my toes have to match my hair now, right? Lisa, my super sweet sister did acrylic glitter toes for me today, in you guessed it RED! I think they turned out pretty dang good for a first time, practice trial run. Don't you? I actually can't believe she did them for me. She hates feet and I know it was driving her crazy!

Yea for small changes!