Hello, All--
If you've been on facebook in the last 20 minutes or so, you saw a link I posted about paragliding--WHICH I AM DOING TOMORROW!!! I am so excited I can hardly stand it! One of my co-workers--Stacy "Ace" Whitmore, who is on the link-- will be the pilot. He said "free" and I told him I had an idea how much the usual charge was, and that he was a teacher, so I had to pay him something to not feel guilty. (I'm getting a 60% discount.)
I always wanted to do something REALLY cool when I turn 50...but after meeting him this year (he's new), I thought, "Who knows if I'll ever have this kind of easy opportunity--or the discount =) --again," so tomorrow it is (unless the conditions aren't ideal, in which case, we'll keep trying). Dave and the kids will meet us there--it's the north side of Thanksgiving Point--at about 5p. Originally, Dave refused to be there (I wanted him to film me =) but he relented after I begged for footage for posterity. (Some of my students know, and asked if they should give me a "farewell party" in case I didn't survive...I suggested Dave take out life insurance on me in the morning; he was not amused.) Oh--and on Friday, a very lucky student will win the raffle and get to throw a pie at my face. (I figure since I'm leaving in June, I might as well go out with a bang!) I'm still waiting for my school's director to show up for my formal observation...there is no warning AT ALL, so I've been stressing for the last three weeks,and will continue to do so 'til it's over. I know: I'm leaving anyway--but I will be trying to sub in a "real" district, so a good reference would be helpful. This will be an interesting week
Dave's yearbook class is almost done with this year's version--which means he's checking spelling/etc. through tomorrow. He and Katie have the day off, so they'll enjoy the beautiful weather--about 60--and peace and quiet here, tomorrow. Did I tell you that his Primary class this year consists of five 4 year-old girls? He and his co-teacher, Brent, thought they'd have it easy, but no: two of the girls can't sit next to each other or they fight, two of the others are always up and bouncing around the room, one is quiet, but they ALL have to have the pink crayon and "be first". (I laugh and laugh whenever I think about his Sundays. =)
Britt is doing well, as is Baby Boy. She finally gained some weight [sheesh], so her doctor didn't scold her last month. The other night, she snuggled up to Jason and the baby kicked her hard enough the he felt it, and he freaked out, wondering how she could ever sleep. She was laughing when she told me, but I thought, "Ahhh...laugh now while you CAN sleep!" I'm sure many of you can relate? =)
Audrey is currently in Virginia for a week vacation. (Having never been back east, I'm envious.) She kept mum about the trip--we only know because her car overheated on the way to the airport, and her friend offered to drive it back to us. Lisa managed to nurse it about 1/2 way home, and we went to pick it up last night. That poor old Honda has over 250,000 miles on it...we're not sure it will survive. Good thing the weather is nice--Audrey might be getting lots of exercise getting to and from school and work when she gets back!
James is fine...even though most of his grades are LOW. I've about given up, and decided that if he wants to fail classes and have to go through summer school in order to graduate, that's his choice. (I mean, really: back in the "olden days" we didn't have to just turn in work to get a "B"--we had to WORK for that good of a grade. It takes more effort to fail nowadays! grrrrrrrrrrrrr.....)
Katie is finally "getting" math--HOORAY!!! Of course, I think her confidence is going up because there are times I'm doing the assignments with her and I have NO clue how to do something, and she does. (We were spending 2-3 hours a night doing assignments together, but she's now down to about an hour, thank heavens!) Now if I can just get her to care about her other classes...[sigh]...these yellow personalities are killing me!
Isaac is doing amazingly well in spelling, now that he's practicing his words...go figure! =P His reading and math assignments are all on-line, so that's nice. On the other hand.... once last week, he was online and working at the table while Katie and I were working on math. I figured we were begin too noisy when he went to get the earphones. Then I saw in the window behind him that he was trying to do BOTH his math and play a computer game at the same time (just as he's seen his brother do). I was SOOO discouraged, and thought, "Well, it was nice while it lasted." (I know you guys out there are probably laughing right now, but it's NOT funny!!!)
Other than the above, nothing's really going on, so that's it for us!
Monday, March 12, 2012
Friday, February 3, 2012
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Baby! and a Blog
Hi Family!
First, I'm sure the news is WAY out by now (sorry I didn't get to officially announce it on here first, my internet went down the afternoon after we made the announcement to our parents and word got out really fast!) but Jason and I are expecting our first baby at the end of June!!! I am 16 weeks pregnant. We are super excited. We love this kid already. <3 :-D
I also wanted to let you all know that I have a family blog that I am now posting on pretty regularly. If you'd like updates on what the Paine family has been up to over the holidays (and all the fun pregnancy info), check out http://jbgrowingpaines.blogspot.com/ . You'll need to sign in to read it. If you aren't sure how to do that I have included the e-mail for this blog as approved to read my blog so you can sign in with the hancockherald02 e-mail address, using the same password you use to get on here and post.
I'm so excited about the wedding this weekend!!! I'll see many of you tomorrow... =D
Lots of Love,
Britt (& Jason)
First, I'm sure the news is WAY out by now (sorry I didn't get to officially announce it on here first, my internet went down the afternoon after we made the announcement to our parents and word got out really fast!) but Jason and I are expecting our first baby at the end of June!!! I am 16 weeks pregnant. We are super excited. We love this kid already. <3 :-D
I also wanted to let you all know that I have a family blog that I am now posting on pretty regularly. If you'd like updates on what the Paine family has been up to over the holidays (and all the fun pregnancy info), check out http://jbgrowingpaines.blogspot.com/ . You'll need to sign in to read it. If you aren't sure how to do that I have included the e-mail for this blog as approved to read my blog so you can sign in with the hancockherald02 e-mail address, using the same password you use to get on here and post.
I'm so excited about the wedding this weekend!!! I'll see many of you tomorrow... =D
Lots of Love,
Britt (& Jason)
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Update from California
Hi Family!
First, Congratulations Brittany on your engagement!!! I love the pictures of you and Stuart - you look happy deep down to your soul. I'm so happy for you both! I will see you in January... YAY! =D
It's been busy over the last couple of months. Shortly after the reunion (which was awesome, by the way - we loved seeing everyone!) I began my fall semester. I chose to take two of my classes as short-term classes so my holidays wouldn't get over-run with homework. While I am happy with that decision, those 8 weeks were filled with twice as much homework as usual, and Jason and I are BOTH glad that they are over. I am happy to report that I got A's in both classes. One of my professors even posted: "All in all most of you did well: Brittany Paine took high mark for the course--good job!!!" That made me feel like the hours I spent on my assignments were justified.
Throughout the school madness I also tried to keep up with my training for the run on October 21-22 that Jason and I happily signed up for again - Ragnar Relay, Las Vegas. We didn't train last year, and we walked funny for a week after returning home. We wanted to contribute better mile times to our team this year AND do the run with less discomfort during and after the race, so we actually started training at the beginning of the summer this time. Jason ran his 15.7 miles with an average mile pace of 7min 06sec, and I managed to run my 11.8 miles with an average mile pace of 8min 45sec, a HUGE improvement from last year's 10min+ mile pace! =) We had an awesome team, once again, and had a blast! Here's this year's team video so you can get an insider's look at what we did:
We plan on doing the Ragnar Relay again next year. =)
Shortly after the Ragnar, Jason started his fall semester. His class is once a week on Thursday for four hours and goes until mid-December, when my last class finishes up as well. Jason realized just this week that this class means he will be missing Thursday-night football for the rest of the year, and he is disappointed, but he'll stick it out anyway. ;-)
Work has been going well for both of us. Jason's on a work trip in Sacramento for a convention right now, and I have my very first piano recital coming up on December 3 for my 14 piano students.
Jason is still the Elder's Quorum Secretary and is trying to come up with ideas for the next EQ activity (the Fantasy Football thing was a hit). I'm wrapping up the year in Primary with my Primary kids who are now all 8 years old. The last one is getting baptized the second Saturday in December. I am so proud of them. I have really grown to love these kids. I had this same class when they were CTR 5's-turning-6, so I've gotten to know them really well over 2 years.
I am thankful for grandma and grandpa's example to us as they serve a mission. I know our family will be richly blessed by their service. I was indecisive about what to put as my favorite hymn at the reunion, so I never wrote anything, but I will say now that my favorite hymn is "I Know That My Redeemer Lives." When I sing the words I feel as if I am singing my own personal testimony.
Love and Hugs!
Brittany and Jason
First, Congratulations Brittany on your engagement!!! I love the pictures of you and Stuart - you look happy deep down to your soul. I'm so happy for you both! I will see you in January... YAY! =D
It's been busy over the last couple of months. Shortly after the reunion (which was awesome, by the way - we loved seeing everyone!) I began my fall semester. I chose to take two of my classes as short-term classes so my holidays wouldn't get over-run with homework. While I am happy with that decision, those 8 weeks were filled with twice as much homework as usual, and Jason and I are BOTH glad that they are over. I am happy to report that I got A's in both classes. One of my professors even posted: "All in all most of you did well: Brittany Paine took high mark for the course--good job!!!" That made me feel like the hours I spent on my assignments were justified.
Throughout the school madness I also tried to keep up with my training for the run on October 21-22 that Jason and I happily signed up for again - Ragnar Relay, Las Vegas. We didn't train last year, and we walked funny for a week after returning home. We wanted to contribute better mile times to our team this year AND do the run with less discomfort during and after the race, so we actually started training at the beginning of the summer this time. Jason ran his 15.7 miles with an average mile pace of 7min 06sec, and I managed to run my 11.8 miles with an average mile pace of 8min 45sec, a HUGE improvement from last year's 10min+ mile pace! =) We had an awesome team, once again, and had a blast! Here's this year's team video so you can get an insider's look at what we did:
RAGNAR RELAY - LAS VEGAS 2011 from Ryan Southwell on Vimeo.
We plan on doing the Ragnar Relay again next year. =)
Shortly after the Ragnar, Jason started his fall semester. His class is once a week on Thursday for four hours and goes until mid-December, when my last class finishes up as well. Jason realized just this week that this class means he will be missing Thursday-night football for the rest of the year, and he is disappointed, but he'll stick it out anyway. ;-)
Work has been going well for both of us. Jason's on a work trip in Sacramento for a convention right now, and I have my very first piano recital coming up on December 3 for my 14 piano students.
Jason is still the Elder's Quorum Secretary and is trying to come up with ideas for the next EQ activity (the Fantasy Football thing was a hit). I'm wrapping up the year in Primary with my Primary kids who are now all 8 years old. The last one is getting baptized the second Saturday in December. I am so proud of them. I have really grown to love these kids. I had this same class when they were CTR 5's-turning-6, so I've gotten to know them really well over 2 years.
I am thankful for grandma and grandpa's example to us as they serve a mission. I know our family will be richly blessed by their service. I was indecisive about what to put as my favorite hymn at the reunion, so I never wrote anything, but I will say now that my favorite hymn is "I Know That My Redeemer Lives." When I sing the words I feel as if I am singing my own personal testimony.
Love and Hugs!
Brittany and Jason
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Dear Family, Here we are October 16 about ready to head off for england. We just experienced a wonderful week at the MTC. I felt I was in the world but not of the world. It was great to be with people who have all the same goals as ourselves.
We leared so much. They tried to teach us how to share the gospel and invite people to come unto Christ.
They have a new building that they just finished where they have the senior missionaries stay. We were the first ones to stay in our room. The building is located on the north end of the MTC campus. Our floor was the third floor. It also houses the book store, postoffice, cleaners, etc. They even have an excercise room there with a few exercise machines in it. In the basement they have a whole room full of excercise machines.
We would get up at 6 am each morning and go exercise for a half hour. Then we would get showered and dressed and head off for the cafeteria for breakfast. I had forgotten how much food 19 year old boys can eat. It is amazing how much they can get on a small tray. We were never hungry while we were there. There are tons of choices and lots of yummy food. Dad gained a couple of pounds in a week.
We usually met for a big meeting at 8:00 for about an hour and then we were divided up in zones and met in classes with newly returned missionaries as teachers. The teachers were awesome and taught us a lot. After a few classes we returned to the cafeteria for lunch. After lunch we sometimes had a big meeting or we returned to our classes. They have volunteers come in and pretend to be nonmembers or inactives and we were supposed to teach them. First we were supposed to find out their needs and fit a lesson around that. We learned that we teach people not lessons. It was a little scary at times trying to figure out what and how to teach. Our
teachers always told us we did a good job. Hopefully we did. After class it was back to the cafeteria for dinner. The rest of the evening we were supposed to study for the next day. We found that we were ready to go to bed pretty early.
It was a wonderful experience and as the time drew near for us to leave we just didn't want to go. The spirit is so strong there. We arrived home after visited with Brittany and Stuart. Congratulations to the two of you. We are sad we won't be here for the happy day. We arrived home and began to pack and get ready for the journey to England.
When we think about leaving all of you and missing all the good things that will be happening while we are gone we get sad, but we know we and all of you will be blessed because we are serving our Heavenly Father.
We leared so much. They tried to teach us how to share the gospel and invite people to come unto Christ.
They have a new building that they just finished where they have the senior missionaries stay. We were the first ones to stay in our room. The building is located on the north end of the MTC campus. Our floor was the third floor. It also houses the book store, postoffice, cleaners, etc. They even have an excercise room there with a few exercise machines in it. In the basement they have a whole room full of excercise machines.
We would get up at 6 am each morning and go exercise for a half hour. Then we would get showered and dressed and head off for the cafeteria for breakfast. I had forgotten how much food 19 year old boys can eat. It is amazing how much they can get on a small tray. We were never hungry while we were there. There are tons of choices and lots of yummy food. Dad gained a couple of pounds in a week.
We usually met for a big meeting at 8:00 for about an hour and then we were divided up in zones and met in classes with newly returned missionaries as teachers. The teachers were awesome and taught us a lot. After a few classes we returned to the cafeteria for lunch. After lunch we sometimes had a big meeting or we returned to our classes. They have volunteers come in and pretend to be nonmembers or inactives and we were supposed to teach them. First we were supposed to find out their needs and fit a lesson around that. We learned that we teach people not lessons. It was a little scary at times trying to figure out what and how to teach. Our
teachers always told us we did a good job. Hopefully we did. After class it was back to the cafeteria for dinner. The rest of the evening we were supposed to study for the next day. We found that we were ready to go to bed pretty early.
It was a wonderful experience and as the time drew near for us to leave we just didn't want to go. The spirit is so strong there. We arrived home after visited with Brittany and Stuart. Congratulations to the two of you. We are sad we won't be here for the happy day. We arrived home and began to pack and get ready for the journey to England.
When we think about leaving all of you and missing all the good things that will be happening while we are gone we get sad, but we know we and all of you will be blessed because we are serving our Heavenly Father.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
NE Hillsboro Update
We LOVE LOVE LOVED seeing all of you at the Reunion. It was a nice week. Our kids were in "cousin heaven."
We were happy to see our home after being away for 17 days. Our garden was a jungle though. We had lots of zucchini awaiting us. Unfortunately, it's been a cool summer, so no red tomatoes yet. (We just had our first day OF THE YEAR over 90 degrees on the weekend. We are still waiting for red tomatoes. Isn't that crazy??)
We got home in time for Jason to go to Cub Camp. He loved every minute! Plus, he got a special treat as Ryan's Pack was there the same week.
We've just enjoyed the little things this summer: swimming at the local pool, family bike rides to the library, playing with friends, arts and crafts, lunch with Dad (it's nice that Chad can come home for lunch!), and playing lots of games. Matt made a goal to learn EVERY game that we own. (It's kept us quite busy. :) )
We LOVED having Pauline and the kids come for a week and were glad that Terry could also come for a couple of days. We had a GREAT time with them. Kira, Elijah, and Makell went to EFY at the Stake Center by our house everyday from 9-9. We liked hearing about their adventures each day. (AND you should see Elijah's new sweet dance moves!!) We played, shopped, and stayed up late. The kids were entertained for HOURS and HOURS doing "melting beads." Who would have thunk it?
Soccer has now started. Crazy! All four kids are playing. We are enjoying and relishing our last couple of weeks of summer as we hear about the Utahns going back to school. Hope it's a great school year for everyone!
We were happy to see our home after being away for 17 days. Our garden was a jungle though. We had lots of zucchini awaiting us. Unfortunately, it's been a cool summer, so no red tomatoes yet. (We just had our first day OF THE YEAR over 90 degrees on the weekend. We are still waiting for red tomatoes. Isn't that crazy??)
We got home in time for Jason to go to Cub Camp. He loved every minute! Plus, he got a special treat as Ryan's Pack was there the same week.
We've just enjoyed the little things this summer: swimming at the local pool, family bike rides to the library, playing with friends, arts and crafts, lunch with Dad (it's nice that Chad can come home for lunch!), and playing lots of games. Matt made a goal to learn EVERY game that we own. (It's kept us quite busy. :) )
We LOVED having Pauline and the kids come for a week and were glad that Terry could also come for a couple of days. We had a GREAT time with them. Kira, Elijah, and Makell went to EFY at the Stake Center by our house everyday from 9-9. We liked hearing about their adventures each day. (AND you should see Elijah's new sweet dance moves!!) We played, shopped, and stayed up late. The kids were entertained for HOURS and HOURS doing "melting beads." Who would have thunk it?
Soccer has now started. Crazy! All four kids are playing. We are enjoying and relishing our last couple of weeks of summer as we hear about the Utahns going back to school. Hope it's a great school year for everyone!
And Then There Were 4
Thanks Julie for the reminder about posting.
So, things are getting pretty quiet at our house. On Saturday we took Kelsey up to Utah State and got her settled in. She came back that weekend to attend a farewell, but she is gone again. We only have four kids in the house now. Pretty strange. With school starting today it was pretty quiet. I worked at home to keep Lynette company. :)
We will soon have someone else home to help fill in the space. This past week we received Nate's release date in the mail. It was kind of cool to get that. It felt a lot closer and more real even though he still has a quarter of a year. He will be released on November 22. Funny thing is that we found out Zach's release date as well even though he has quite a while left. He will be released on February 7.
Just as everyone seems to be leaving we are starting to get our basement finished. We are close to having the bathroom done. We hope we can get the great room done before the end of the year. We will see how that goes. Once those two things are done then everything will be finish (except of course for the storage room).
As mentioned everyone is back in school now. They had a good first day. Anna continues to have hard classes. She has AP Lit and AP Calculus this year. The Calculus class is with an infamous teacher. Anna has made it through one year with that teacher, so she can do it again. She is a good teacher, just very hard.
Tyson is in eighth grade this year. Brianna is the Queen of her school since she is in sixth. Max really likes his teacher as well.
We hope everyone is doing well.
So, things are getting pretty quiet at our house. On Saturday we took Kelsey up to Utah State and got her settled in. She came back that weekend to attend a farewell, but she is gone again. We only have four kids in the house now. Pretty strange. With school starting today it was pretty quiet. I worked at home to keep Lynette company. :)
We will soon have someone else home to help fill in the space. This past week we received Nate's release date in the mail. It was kind of cool to get that. It felt a lot closer and more real even though he still has a quarter of a year. He will be released on November 22. Funny thing is that we found out Zach's release date as well even though he has quite a while left. He will be released on February 7.
Just as everyone seems to be leaving we are starting to get our basement finished. We are close to having the bathroom done. We hope we can get the great room done before the end of the year. We will see how that goes. Once those two things are done then everything will be finish (except of course for the storage room).
As mentioned everyone is back in school now. They had a good first day. Anna continues to have hard classes. She has AP Lit and AP Calculus this year. The Calculus class is with an infamous teacher. Anna has made it through one year with that teacher, so she can do it again. She is a good teacher, just very hard.
Tyson is in eighth grade this year. Brianna is the Queen of her school since she is in sixth. Max really likes his teacher as well.
We hope everyone is doing well.
Eagle Mountain Update
Hello, Everyone--
BRITT and Jason are doing well in CA, though I've only texted Britt, so I don't have details on much (other than that she's trying to work out a ride to come and visit here in September over Labor Day week.)
AUDREY is moving out on Friday (party at MY house on Saturday--haha--just kiddin'), and is counting down 'til she escapes the life of confinement she's been living and sails into the blissful sea of independence (double haha--I'm guessing she'll like us a LOT better within a few months =). She also begins her f/t college classes August 29th.
JAMES is dreading school beginning (August 23rd). He has managed quite well to avoid learning much of anything this summer, although I must admit that he has almost perfected his dish-washing/counter-wiping skills. Those will be of great benefit with Audrey moving out: we need his hands to help with KP when school starts again. Today, James was set apart to be the Teacher's Quorum Secretary, and he's quite excited. (Now that I think about it, perhaps his excitement was the result of noticing that he can now look DOWN on his dad's bald spot?)
KATIE now has all of her uniform clothes for her first year of middle school at Dave's (private LDS) school. She makes a gagging noise when someone mentions it, but when we were shopping for the shirts, she picked out a few hair "things" to go with the uniforms, and she wears the sweats (embroidered with the school logo) constantly (it's relatively chilly in our basement). She has done a FABULOUS job learning to clean to my spec's this summer: it helped that she did NOT try to avoid such learning experiences! I am sooo grateful that she'll be here to help this school year--again, with KP duty especially.
ISAAC has enjoyed the summer library trips, reading and drawing each day, but alas, has given a middling amount of effort learning to clean "things." One notable exception was cleaning the bathroom: he was so proud he showed his dad as SOON as Dave walked in the door from his summer-school gig. He and I have enjoyed our time together this summer, and it's bittersweet to have him tell me he wishes school wouldn't start so I could be here more with him. Ah, well....
DAVE finished his two summer school classes last Friday, which means he has two weeks to get everything together for teaching his core classes this year: English and World History (9th grade) and Yearbook. He's excited to have Katie going with him every day, and SWEARS he'll be home by 4p to get the kids a) working on homework/chores, and b) have dinner ready by 5:30p. He's figuring I'll be stressed out, and he's probably right. ("If I only had [his] brain"--while working f/t and being in grad school f/t--I would be fine!) He plans on going golfing with Dad sometime over the next two weeks before his school begins (August 30th). He also just bought some aluminum wire so he can make himself a chain-mail shirt this fall--sounds fun, right?
As for ME--here's your laugh of the hour: I am attending MATH CAMP Monday through Thursday this week! Yes, in only 8 hours a day, for four days, I will be completely reviewing all 16 chapters of the semester-long College Algebra text (gulp). Friday, I'll be helping Audrey move in and prepping my room/self for the first day of class at my school, Monday, August 22nd. Then, August 23rd-24th, I'll be at school 'til 4p and driving to Provo for my MPA Orientation nights (5-10p). Back to School Night (at my school) is Thursday, August 25th, from 6-8p. I did tell Dave that I'd do this "double whammy" deal through the semester (December break, really) and possibly quit at that point, depending on whether or not I sense a nervous breakdown coming on. If I tell myself I have a choice--even if it's not much of one--the semester doesn't seem so daunting. (If you happen to know any other mind tricks I might be able to play on myself, feel free to email them to me!)
You're all in our thoughts and prayers--it was good to see you all at the Reunion--
Elizabeth "Libby" Hancock
BRITT and Jason are doing well in CA, though I've only texted Britt, so I don't have details on much (other than that she's trying to work out a ride to come and visit here in September over Labor Day week.)
AUDREY is moving out on Friday (party at MY house on Saturday--haha--just kiddin'), and is counting down 'til she escapes the life of confinement she's been living and sails into the blissful sea of independence (double haha--I'm guessing she'll like us a LOT better within a few months =). She also begins her f/t college classes August 29th.
JAMES is dreading school beginning (August 23rd). He has managed quite well to avoid learning much of anything this summer, although I must admit that he has almost perfected his dish-washing/counter-wiping skills. Those will be of great benefit with Audrey moving out: we need his hands to help with KP when school starts again. Today, James was set apart to be the Teacher's Quorum Secretary, and he's quite excited. (Now that I think about it, perhaps his excitement was the result of noticing that he can now look DOWN on his dad's bald spot?)
KATIE now has all of her uniform clothes for her first year of middle school at Dave's (private LDS) school. She makes a gagging noise when someone mentions it, but when we were shopping for the shirts, she picked out a few hair "things" to go with the uniforms, and she wears the sweats (embroidered with the school logo) constantly (it's relatively chilly in our basement). She has done a FABULOUS job learning to clean to my spec's this summer: it helped that she did NOT try to avoid such learning experiences! I am sooo grateful that she'll be here to help this school year--again, with KP duty especially.
ISAAC has enjoyed the summer library trips, reading and drawing each day, but alas, has given a middling amount of effort learning to clean "things." One notable exception was cleaning the bathroom: he was so proud he showed his dad as SOON as Dave walked in the door from his summer-school gig. He and I have enjoyed our time together this summer, and it's bittersweet to have him tell me he wishes school wouldn't start so I could be here more with him. Ah, well....
DAVE finished his two summer school classes last Friday, which means he has two weeks to get everything together for teaching his core classes this year: English and World History (9th grade) and Yearbook. He's excited to have Katie going with him every day, and SWEARS he'll be home by 4p to get the kids a) working on homework/chores, and b) have dinner ready by 5:30p. He's figuring I'll be stressed out, and he's probably right. ("If I only had [his] brain"--while working f/t and being in grad school f/t--I would be fine!) He plans on going golfing with Dad sometime over the next two weeks before his school begins (August 30th). He also just bought some aluminum wire so he can make himself a chain-mail shirt this fall--sounds fun, right?
As for ME--here's your laugh of the hour: I am attending MATH CAMP Monday through Thursday this week! Yes, in only 8 hours a day, for four days, I will be completely reviewing all 16 chapters of the semester-long College Algebra text (gulp). Friday, I'll be helping Audrey move in and prepping my room/self for the first day of class at my school, Monday, August 22nd. Then, August 23rd-24th, I'll be at school 'til 4p and driving to Provo for my MPA Orientation nights (5-10p). Back to School Night (at my school) is Thursday, August 25th, from 6-8p. I did tell Dave that I'd do this "double whammy" deal through the semester (December break, really) and possibly quit at that point, depending on whether or not I sense a nervous breakdown coming on. If I tell myself I have a choice--even if it's not much of one--the semester doesn't seem so daunting. (If you happen to know any other mind tricks I might be able to play on myself, feel free to email them to me!)
You're all in our thoughts and prayers--it was good to see you all at the Reunion--
Elizabeth "Libby" Hancock
Saturday, June 4, 2011
April/May Catch-Up Post
Hi Family!
I feel I have somewhat neglected this blog this last month, but there is a lot to tell!
I got to take a surprise trip to Utah in April by hitching a ride with a cousin who was traveling that way anyway. I also drove back with her, and so only got to stay for a few days, but I was grateful for at least a short visit! I am very much looking forward to the Reunion. =D
April is the month of Jason's birthday and our anniversary, so to celebrate both we took a trip to Vegas! We started off the trip with a visit to the Las Vegas Temple, which we'd never been to. After the session we enjoyed a scrumptious meal at Buca Di Beppo and then checked into our room at the Venetian, where we were given 3 free nights (!!!). The weekend was packed, as we were determined to walk the entire Strip and catch all the free shows. We were also able to see The Lion King at Mandalay Bay, which was awesome - the costumes were incredible!!! On the way home (sort of) we decided to visit the Hoover Dam also. For pictures, go to my Facebook album "Our Second Anniversary and Jason's B-Day Celebrations."
This month I finished school until the fall (the community college I am currently attending canceled all the summer classes due to budget cuts) so I have decided to enjoy the time off and sew, sew, sew! I have lots of projects lined up. Here's a picture of the project I just finished (for more detailed pictures see my Facebook album "My Craft Projects"):
I also replanted everything that the snails ate in my garden, and took preventative measures this time. So far everything is growing quite well. The garden includes peppers, onions, tomatoes, herbs (can you tell Jason wants to make more salsa?), squash, zucchini, beans, grapes, and some random kind of berry given to us by a lady in the ward. Jason and I are still working, of course, and Jason's schedule has been a bit nuts this month, but we're grateful for the extra work! I'm up to seven piano students. I also baby-sit on occasion, since I have the time to help.
I guess the only other thing to mention is that we spent Memorial Day in Big Bear garage sailing and enjoying cabin life and games. It was nice to "get away" for a weekend. =)
We Love and Miss You All,
Brittany & Jason
I feel I have somewhat neglected this blog this last month, but there is a lot to tell!
I got to take a surprise trip to Utah in April by hitching a ride with a cousin who was traveling that way anyway. I also drove back with her, and so only got to stay for a few days, but I was grateful for at least a short visit! I am very much looking forward to the Reunion. =D
April is the month of Jason's birthday and our anniversary, so to celebrate both we took a trip to Vegas! We started off the trip with a visit to the Las Vegas Temple, which we'd never been to. After the session we enjoyed a scrumptious meal at Buca Di Beppo and then checked into our room at the Venetian, where we were given 3 free nights (!!!). The weekend was packed, as we were determined to walk the entire Strip and catch all the free shows. We were also able to see The Lion King at Mandalay Bay, which was awesome - the costumes were incredible!!! On the way home (sort of) we decided to visit the Hoover Dam also. For pictures, go to my Facebook album "Our Second Anniversary and Jason's B-Day Celebrations."
This month I finished school until the fall (the community college I am currently attending canceled all the summer classes due to budget cuts) so I have decided to enjoy the time off and sew, sew, sew! I have lots of projects lined up. Here's a picture of the project I just finished (for more detailed pictures see my Facebook album "My Craft Projects"):
I also replanted everything that the snails ate in my garden, and took preventative measures this time. So far everything is growing quite well. The garden includes peppers, onions, tomatoes, herbs (can you tell Jason wants to make more salsa?), squash, zucchini, beans, grapes, and some random kind of berry given to us by a lady in the ward. Jason and I are still working, of course, and Jason's schedule has been a bit nuts this month, but we're grateful for the extra work! I'm up to seven piano students. I also baby-sit on occasion, since I have the time to help.
I guess the only other thing to mention is that we spent Memorial Day in Big Bear garage sailing and enjoying cabin life and games. It was nice to "get away" for a weekend. =)
We Love and Miss You All,
Brittany & Jason
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Hello Everyone, Where is the time going. We can't believe it is already May. We wanted to update everyone on what we've been doing. We have been enjoying retirement especially Dad/Grandpa. He doesn't get to sleep in very much though, because we get up at 6:30 every morning to go to the gym. We are trying to get healthy for the mission. We are doing pretty good. We have both been to the doctor and we passed our exams. The mission papers are almost ready to go. Mom/Grandma still needs to finish her dental work (which she is so excited about.) It should all be done this week. The bishop and stake president needs to meet with us and then we will be ready to submit the papers. Hopefully we will be able to open our call at the reunion. That is our plan. Everyone keeps asking us where we want to go, but we are just going to go where the Lord needs us. We are getting pretty excited.
Since this is the last year Jared will be dancing for BYU, we have been going to some of his concerts. They have put on some really entertaining performances. We will miss not being able to watch him dance. Right now he is Bangkok. It is really a great opportunity for him.
We are so happy to be Great Grandparents. Little Gabe is so cute. It makes us feel old but it is worth it. The next generation is starting. We were so glad we could go to his blessing. It was really special. We were all able to go to Steve and Lynette's house after the blessing and have dinner together. They had a million people there. I think everyone got fed. It makes for a big group when all the family and friends come. It was really fun.
It is hard to believe that six of our seven sons are now highpriests. Darrin recently got called into the bishopic in his ward. We were able to go to Oregon so that Dad/Grandpa could ordain him a highpriest. He was pretty nervous about the call, but we know he will do a great job. We feel so blessed that all of you are trying to live the gospel and serve in your wards. It was great seeing everyone in Oregon and spending time with the family. We were there for six days and we all had dinner together every night. Thank you Oregonites for all of your hospitality.
In February we took a little trip to San Diego. We had a really good time. We even got to see Brittany and Jason. The weather was beautiful. We spent time at the beach, went to Sea World, and relaxed. We haven't been warm since we got home. The weather in Utah has been pretty bad this year.
We were in the temple the other day, and we were talking about how blessed we are in our family. We are so looking forward to the reunion. It will be so nice to all be together for a week. We love you and miss you. Be happy and stay safe. Love, Dad/Grandpa and Mom/Grandma.
Since this is the last year Jared will be dancing for BYU, we have been going to some of his concerts. They have put on some really entertaining performances. We will miss not being able to watch him dance. Right now he is Bangkok. It is really a great opportunity for him.
We are so happy to be Great Grandparents. Little Gabe is so cute. It makes us feel old but it is worth it. The next generation is starting. We were so glad we could go to his blessing. It was really special. We were all able to go to Steve and Lynette's house after the blessing and have dinner together. They had a million people there. I think everyone got fed. It makes for a big group when all the family and friends come. It was really fun.
It is hard to believe that six of our seven sons are now highpriests. Darrin recently got called into the bishopic in his ward. We were able to go to Oregon so that Dad/Grandpa could ordain him a highpriest. He was pretty nervous about the call, but we know he will do a great job. We feel so blessed that all of you are trying to live the gospel and serve in your wards. It was great seeing everyone in Oregon and spending time with the family. We were there for six days and we all had dinner together every night. Thank you Oregonites for all of your hospitality.
In February we took a little trip to San Diego. We had a really good time. We even got to see Brittany and Jason. The weather was beautiful. We spent time at the beach, went to Sea World, and relaxed. We haven't been warm since we got home. The weather in Utah has been pretty bad this year.
We were in the temple the other day, and we were talking about how blessed we are in our family. We are so looking forward to the reunion. It will be so nice to all be together for a week. We love you and miss you. Be happy and stay safe. Love, Dad/Grandpa and Mom/Grandma.
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