Music Man

I thought it was probably time to post about my experience with the Music Man play I participated in along with some amazing people in my stake. I really don't know where to begin. I said a lot about our crazy rehearsals and what seemed like endless hours preparing for this show. What else is there to say?

Well, I can tell you that I was exhausted by the day we started the actual performances. I was also extremely excited and nervous. I couldn't wait for them to be over and at the same time I didn't want it to end. I don't know how else to explain it. I was a ball of confusion. So many rehearsals had led to that weekend in March, we were so ready, I was so ready, but at the same time I didn't know what I was going to do with myself when it ended. What would happen to these wonderful relationships I had been growing over the last few months? What will I do with the time that once was taken by Music Man? Is all of this work even going to be worth it in the end?

Well, the performance came and it was all I was hoping it would be. It was real, it was fun, people were actually laughing at the jokes I had forgotten were funny. And that's another thing... people actually came! It was amazing to look out into this amazing and really big theater and see so many people. People who took the time away from so many other things I'm sure they could have been doing to support me and all of the other cast members. That was so great. I can't tell you how grateful I am to those who came to the show. Thank you again, if I haven't done it enough already. It meant the world to me to have you there. I hope you all know that.

As for the worries I had about it coming to an end, well I did make some incredible friends during this experience. Friendships that I am sure wouldn't have even happened if it weren't for the play. I was so worried that these would somehow disappear without Music Man holding us together, but I am so happy to say that we have been able to go on with out it. I have received the sweetest notes, thoughtful little gifts, and much appreciated phone calls saying hello or touching base. I have run into some at stores and have felt such excitement at getting to stop for a minute and hear how they are doing. I feel like there is this whole group of people out there who I love and who love me. I may not get to talk to or see them every day but they are there and that is enough. (I can't wait for the next reunion in May. Yep, we're having a reunion already! Love it!). And all that time I thought I would have on my hands? Who am I kidding? I didn't have time before the play and I don't have time after. It seems my life was just put on hold for 3 months while I was in the play and the minute it was over my life started right up again. Didn't miss a step. I'm grateful and sad for that. Wish I could have breathed for at least one second, but glad not to feel sorry for myself with no friends or things to do. And I will say IT WAS TOTALLY WORTH IT IN THE END! So glad I did this. Good and bad, I am better for it, Steve and I are better for it. The end.

Steve brought our camera on the last day, I just kept forgetting it. He was our official picture taker. We don't have a lot and none of me and all of the pick-a-little ladies which makes me sad. I was hoping to get some of those pictures from the other ladies but I don't want to wait any more. I'll post them if I get them.

My very purple Pick-A-Little Lady costume

Julie and I. The other "young one"

Ashlee, Justin and one of the traveling salesman. Gotta love the make-up

This is the only picture I have of Steve and I. Sad, I know. We did the best we could. I think I should let you in on a little secret, Steve learned how to put on his own make-up during this whole production. That isn't something every guy can say. I think he should be proud, he doesn't agree.

Nancy (Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn) and I. One of my absolute most favorite people. Love that I got to know her.

Lots of pictures of me. Thanks Steve.

Having a little too much fun with the camera. Steve and Brandon.

Joan and I. Another amazing woman who I wish I could be more like.

Me, me, me

Spring Conference 2011

I love conference. I really do. I know that may seem crazy, but I so look forward to sitting down and listening to the words of those I truly look up to, feeling of their spirits, and walking away renewed and empowered, ready to make changes in myself and be better.

This hasn't always been the case. I used to see conference weekend as a week off of church, a time to go and do something fun with my family. I was asked to listen to the prophet speak and the last session, or was that just something I did? I can't really remember my parents actually forcing me to sit down, but that was generally the routine. I always understood that it was important, but it didn't seem to pertain to me and I didn't see it as necessary for my own personal growth. I loved seeing the prophet and all the beautiful flowers, but that's about where it ended.

I'm not sure when or why or how things changed for me but they did. I now listen so contently to the teachings of my leaders. I bask in their spirit and the comforting sound of their voices. I feel truly blessed to be a part of this wonderful gospel, to live so close to where a lot of important things happen, to be surrounded by people who put the lord first and live such happy honest lives.

Ok... I know this is so nerdy, but I took notes. shhhhhh! Don't tell! I do it so that I know I am paying attention and so that I can remember the things that can help me when I might forget exactly what was said. So, I thought I would share a few of my favorite notes. I took a lot so I'm not going to share them all, but I think a few will be good. At least good for me to come back and remember if I need to.

The things I wrote down are from conference, my thoughts on the subject are in blue.

• Keep the sabbath day holy and go to church! Innovative stuff, I know. But it made me think more strongly about the sacrament and if I am utilizing it fully in my life.
• The greatest joy we will receive in this life is following the Savior. Check, true so far for me.
• Follow the example of children. Children are full of faith and believing. They are open to the spirit. I really loved this talk. She spoke of children and why Christ always spoke of them and told his followers to behold them and become like them. Children come to us very innocent and pure. They have not been jaded by life's hardships. They have an easy time discerning between right and wrong. Children are much quicker to recognize the spirit and things that are good and right. I really loved that. It made me look differently at my children. They are truly so precious.
• We should express love even at the most dire of circumstances. Even when we are going through hardships. Christ showed his love always even when they were whipping him he had love for all the people.
• Elder Cook gave a talk about the role of women and I thought the whole thing was so wonderful and pertinent in my life. I wrote so many things about it and then starred it to go back and read when it is available.
• HAVE YOU DONE ANY GOOD IN THE WORLD TODAY? HAVE YOU HELPED ANYONE IN NEED? This question plagues me more often than I'd like to admit. I hope that I can really push this in my own life.
• When we have a vision of what we can become, our desire and our power to act increase enormously. We must have righteous desires. Our desires influence our actions. Our actions define who we are. Enough said.
• Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Begin this effort at home. I think sometimes I worry more about my actions with people who live outside of my home. I think that I have time to worry about those within my home or that I know they love me and therefore will forgive me for not having time or for being short. But I think I might have it backwards. I think I need to start in my home. Worry about these other four people first, my relationship with them and the quality time we spend together and then I can worry about the other people that matter.
• Where charity exists, there can be no gossip or unkind words.
• I need to start asking more questions of others instead of waiting for them to ask questions of me. Sometimes I feel like I need others to be interested in what I am doing or things that are happening in my life, but really it doesn't matter. What matters is what they are doing, what is going on in their lives.
• If we are thinking only of ourselves we will miss the most profoundly uplifting and spiritual experiences.
• When answering someone elses prayer, we usually find the answer to our own.
• We should engage the blessing of revelation in our lives. I want to learn to understand and know how to act upon the promptings of the spirit. I think I sometimes feel when the spirit is prompting me, but I want it to be clear in my heart and mind.
• Put a picture of the temple in every bedroom.
• The more often we go to the temple, the stronger we will be to overcome trials and temptations. Life beyond the veil is as real and certain as our life here on Earth. -President Monson. Wow.

Spring Conference

We spent spring conference this year in Bear Lake. When you look at the pictures you won't believe it because of all the snow, but it's true! It was a cold weekend, but that didn't mean that we didn't have fun! We do the hat picture for Grandma and I think it turned out pretty cute!

 

12:52

Our Primary does a fun thing we call "Scripture Hero". We got the idea on Sugardoodle a really great site full of ideas for primary, young women's, and relief society. There is probably more things you can get ideas for, but I generally go straight to the primary section. Anyhoo... the kids eat this up! We have a member of the ward come in at the beginning of sharing time wearing a cape and mask. The kids sing Scripture Power and the ward member flies around the room. After the song they share their favorite scripture or a scripture, or one that is special to them. It has been so fun for the kids to see the scriptures alive in the lives of those in our ward. Too fun.

My two selves...

Sometimes I feel like I am two different people. I am a mother and caretaker of my family. I cherish this role and feel the weight of the responsibility of being a mother weighing on my shoulders each and every day. I feel like I am trying so hard to make my children always act a certain way, or do just the right things. I want them to only use the most polite, kind and reverent tones when they speak. I want them to always think of others before themselves, to give what they have to those who don't. Basically I want them to be perfect. Obviously they are not perfect. Far from it, really. They are learning and growing and testing the water. They push and pull and play and yell. They are children and they act as such. I find myself trying so hard to make them who I want them to be and I'm failing, getting frustrated and angry. I am mad and sad and worried.

Then there is this other person. A girl who doesn't show her face very often. I got a glimpse of her yesterday and it was so nice to see her. My mom had the kids as I had a photo session. I was doing something I love that is just for me and it felt good. After the session I drove around town, music blasting, singing at the top of my lungs, thinking this feels really good! I went home and cleaned up the house to more good music then sat in my favorite chair and read a few chapters of a good book, the house more quiet than I can remember. It felt so good! I felt so good! This part of me seems hide far away when the other part comes out to run the house. I thought to myself as I drove back to get my kids from my moms house, why can't I be this person more often with my kids? I decided I really want to be the me that feels good, has fun and sings out loud with my kids. I still want them to be their very best selves. I want them to be kind and thoughtful. But I also want me to have a happier experience with them while they are young and still mine.

So, this is for you, self that hides away unless I am alone. COME OUT AND PLAY! I want you here, and I really think my kids do too!

11:52

My Princess. My Race Car Driver. My Cuddle Bug.

None of them can wait to get outside!

A little taste...

I thought I would give you a little sneak of what is happening in my life right now.

I have to wear this for a couple of hours each day along with a very heavy, very purple, very old fashioned gown, or dress? I'm not sure exactly what to call it. But it is fabulous.

My life is being swallowed, consumed, devoured by the Music Man. A name I had heard before... was it a movie? Or a play? I wasn't quite sure. Didn't know much else about it. 4 months later, I can sing you every word to every song in this musical, recite to you most every line, and maybe even through in a bit of choreography. My dreams are serenaded by 76 Trombones. Whew. I'm exhausted just thinking about it. 

Who knew something so simple could cause such chaos in our house? Admittedly, my days have mostly stayed the same. It is my nights that are now non-existent. And Steve? Who is that? OH! He's the guy who twirls me around and dances with me during that one scene, right? At least that seems to be all I have known of him for way too long.

But on the other hand... I am a part of this amazing show. This creation that has more blood, sweat and tears poured into it that it can't be anything less that amazing, and believe me it is. Not because of me (heavens, no). But because there are some incredibly talented people combining all of their knowledge to make this really awesome production. Walking into the conference center last week as we began our first rehearsals on the actual stage I was a little nervous. Were we ready for this? How is this even going to come together? But then everyone put on the costumes, did their hair and make up and stepped out onto the stage and something magical happened. I really is starting to feel like I am a part of this little town in the middle of Iowa surrounded by ornery people who let a traveling salesman come into their town and change their hearts. I felt my heart change and we haven't even done it for a real audience yet!

Starting tomorrow I have to be at the conference center with my hair and makeup done and costume on at 6:00. I will likely be there until 10:00. I will drag myself home, kiss my sleeping children on the forehead and crawl into bed. Exhausted. And I will do it all with a smile on my face. If you are coming to one of the shows, sweet! I can't wait to see you! I hope you enjoy the show as much as I know I, and everyone else involved, will putting it on for you. Come ready for a really fun time! It's going to be GREAT!

10:52

My battered and bruised little boys. How will they ever survive? How will they not? They are a bag of contradictions and I can't get enough of them.

Love my boys.

9:52

This is a normal scene at my house during the day. My kids love books. I mean love. We have a lot of books and I wish we had more. Steve thinks I'm crazy as we don't have room for the books, but can you ever have enough books? Especially children's books? I really don't think so.

After a morning of running, playing, imagining and trouble making, we settle down for quiet time. At this point I'm usually very ready for nap time but the clock tells me to hold off just a little bit. So we pull out the books and have ourselves some quiet time. I love this time of day. My kids pour through the books, they show each other the ones they love the most and Reagan will tell stories to Cache. It is so fun to watch. For some reason we don't have fights during quiet time. Some days I let them stay up way too long because they are being so good and I love watching them. So here is my picture for the week. An every day occurance that I treasure.

Crew's Thomas the Train Birthday Party

We started asking Crew what kind of a birthday party he wanted way back in the beginning of January and every time, without fail, he would say "Thomas". He loves Thomas the Train and that is what he wanted.

So I started looking around trying to find ideas for a cute Thomas party and I did find a few things. One thing I loved was having a ticket as the invitation. So glad I saw that idea. So, here is Crew's invitation...

There were a ton of cake pictures for a Thomas cake on Google. So many fun ideas. People are creative! It's fun to see what is out there. I decided to have a two layer cake. I went with butter cream frosting because my kids will eat it and they don't really eat the fondant and if they won't eat it then its not worth the effort. Although, I must say, it sure looks fabulous on a cake. So I kinda went back and forth about it, but ended up with butter cream.

So what do you think? I really need to take a class for cake decorating considering the amount of cakes I will inevitably be making over the course of my life. I need some help, but it turned out ok, right? I especially loved my clouds. Talk about talent.

I really hit the jackpot when I found the official Thomas Website. Talk about gold mine. They had color pages and game ideas, they also had free download. I took one of the downloads and blew it up for a decoration. I blew another one up and we played pin the nose on Thomas.

For refreshments I had a variety of snacks. It was a small spread, and we had a small crowd, so it worked out great. You can't see this, but I created new labels for the water bottles... Choo Choo Chug

It was so fun watching Crew open his presents. He is at a great age for it.

He still needs a little bit of help getting the wrapping paper off so his sister and friends can be there to help out and everyone is happy. Here is Crew and Luke. Little buddies.

I love the look on Crews face. So happy to have Luke there. And Luke is so ready to show Crew what he got for him.

We blew out candles. I love these pictures. This is what it is like (most of the time) at our house. Reagan and Crew are always together. They are little buddies and I love that. They do everything together. They play, dance, and cause mischief together. I love that they have each other. I hope they stay this way.

Reagan is telling Crew how to blow out the candles in this one. Classic.

This is my favorite one of all...

I stopped taking pictures after this. But the party was a lot of fun. Crew felt special and was so happy that he got his Thomas Party. We played "Pin the Nose on Thomas" and "Thomas Says". Each of the kids received a little goodie bag with a Thomas whistle, Thomas color pages, Thomas cut-outs, a CD full of train songs, and a little Thomas maze game. We had a lot of fun and I'm so glad everyone came. Thank you for making it such a special time for Crew! Happy Birthday kid! Love ya!