Memory

 I was wondering through my blog this morning and found this unpublished entry?  I wrote it a couple years ago. It was a memory that happened in 2000.

When I was young I took the piano for five or six long and grueling years. I am no Beethoven. But my Grandpa Johnson loved to hear me play and would ask me to play in a room of crowded people and I would. And he would listen intently and clap when I was finished - even though everyone else continued taking and didn't really pay any attention. 

I played a super hard piece at their mission farewell. It was really too hard for me but my Grandma insisted that I play "Fur Elise". I muddled through and it was pretty embarrassing but because of that, I mastered that piece eventually.

Anyway, when my grandfather died  (I was about 33) I attended his viewing. It was held in the Relief Society room at the church and no one was assigned to play the piano. It was kind of eery quiet so I thought I'd sit and play a few hymns as background music. Normally, I just try to stick to songs without sharps and flats and mostly pick out the top hand? Well, on this day I sat down - thinking of my Grandpa - and I began to play and I played like I've never played in my life. Sharps and flats were not problem. I could flip to a song and just play. People commented on how  they didn't know I could play like that. And I can't. And I never have again. It was my last performance for my grandpa and for some special reason I had the gift of music that night.

Facebook Post Journal-ing...

August 13th
Sometimes big brothers are sweet. 
Last night we had tears when a certain little sister realized she has school in a week and dreads going back. 
"But I didn't get done everything on my list.... 
Mom: Like what?
Sister: I wanted to go the aquarium. 
Brother: (who was in the room/on his phone but I didn't think was paying attention.) I'll take you. I hate looking at fish but I'll take you.
Sister: I wanted to make salsa and have a sleep over.
Brother: Mom? This ones yours.
Mom: Ok. We can do that!
Brother: What else is in your list?
Sister: I wanted to shot the tube.
Brother: Okay let's do it! I do too. We will take Austin.
Mom: Just tell me when it's over. Brother: What else? Get the list. We got this. We have a week.
Sister: smiles through her tears....

July 22nd
While going with Austin to SLCC to get his transcripts transferred to UVU we ran into his counselor who asked him, "Did you tell your mom that I think she produced well?"
Produced well? I've been blessed to hear many compliments with regards to my children - but I sincerely believe I've never been complimented on my ability to produce them?? 
However, he is my biggest child, I feel like maybe I'd win a "blue ribbon" or "best of show" if there were a "who produced a great kid" contest?

July 6th
"Mom, it's going to get lit!", is the heads up that he's going to blast his techno music while packing for scout camp this morning. 
I'll miss him. Won't miss his music.

June 14th 
So...a certain young man has decided to see if he can unlock his native language that he's buried deep in his subconscious. (That and his future profession - as of right now - would greatly benefit from being fluent in two languages.) 
We've hired the most darling tutor - she looks like a Russian model. Luckily she's 29 and married AND in order for her to tutor she brings her three year old son over AND he speaks ZERO English. Yours truly has now learned the word for trampoline as he shouts it over and over until I lift him up and put him on the tramp. He jumps 5 jumps then wants off. The proceeds to shout "bamtrup" (trampoline) until I put him back on. We did that at least 20 times. Oy. (If anyone with little children would like to come over between 4 and 5 PM on Tuesdays and entertain this little Russian kid, you're more than welcome. Consider it a cultural experience?)
He threw a screaming fit and tried to hold on to things as his waif like mother physically hauled him out after the hour long tutor session! What can I say? Little Russia/Ukraine boys just like me! 😊
June 7th

My New Computer!

So, my IT guy (Alex) came upstairs with a pillow and blanket under his arm around 9am this morning?
Me: (puzzled) What? Where did you sleep?
X: In your office. Next to your computer.
Me: Why?
X I needed to hear if that fan turned on again and figure out what was wrong.

Oh my goodness. He was trouble shooting my computer ALL NIGHT LONG. (He's figured out the issue and the remedy this morning.)
Later, I told him he didn't need to do that - he could have shut it down and looked at it today? "I told you I'd make it work and its going to!"
As I was typing this (on my phone - sitting in front of my dark computer screen) he came in in a panic! "Is it not turning on?" I quickly move the mouse to show him all is well. The relief on his face was priceless.
Little did I know him building my computer would include a  24/7 life time of free and very concerned tech support! ❤️

2015 Christmas Letter

Greetings Friends & Family!  Here’s our 2015 in bullets!

James*retired early/was laid off from the oil fields in March*decided/had to go back to work in October*sells heavy machinery for Century Equipment*likes to fish *still likes to ride his many motorcycles but has given up motor cross & snowboarding*became a grandpa!

Wendy*still a real estate agent*self proclaimed “momanager” to all *getting certified to teach yoga*serves in Young Women’s*biggest (and loudest) fan of Murray’s Drill, Swim & Polo teams*LOVES being a Grammy!

Kambree & Cameron*Age 23 & 25*(Kam) graduated with her RN in the spring*bought a house * adopted two dogs, *HAD A BABY*adopted Grogan the goat*brought Cameron’s old dog home *adopted a kitten* currently remodeling their house *loves to camp, fish & hunt*both working & raising the most precious baby girl on the planet, Harper Leola!

Austin*Age 21*had shoulder surgery (long ago snowboarding injury)*bought a bullet bike*grew a beard* got a job working as a sleep technician (he hooks up people to electrodes and monitors their sleep all night long to diagnosis sleep apnea) *is getting allergy shots (now that his deductible for the year has been met)*likes to have deep conversations on just about any subject*decided to return to school* starts at SLCC in January.

Devree*Age 19 *went to Snow* came home and worked full time as a summer camp counselor/part time at Chuck A Rama *returned to Snow*started a hip hop crew at Snow*has announced she’s going to marry an Islander (no, she doesn’t have specific man in mind)*found out last month she has all the credits she needs to get her associates*made a quick change of plans and moved home* future plans include; looking for full time work, figuring out where she’ll attend school in the fall & what she’ll major in.

Alex:*Age 17 *works as a lifeguard*spent the summer rebuilding his Camaro engine*joined the swim team (but attends as few practices as possible)*likes to “hang out” with girls*play video games*eats all the time*plans to play varsity water polo, build a computer and be a Navy Seal.

Rylee*Age 15 (almost 16)*finally got her learners permit (only took 3 tries)*made the drill team*worked at Cold Stone over the summer*practices drill for hours on end*sees a chiropractor for drill injuries* bakes wonderful desserts *likes to wear black & colorful lipstick, take artsy photos & make Vines*future plans include NOT being on the drill team next year, Pro-Start (a culinary class at Murray high) and driving herself places.

Harper*6 months old*took her first breath May 31^st* learned to smile *sit up*roll over*play with toys*grab the kitten* make sounds and has stolen all our hearts*future plans include; talking, walking & sleepovers @ Grammys!

An Alex Update

Back in the day I wrote a lot about Alex and his adjustments. It was cheap therapy for me but it's been awhile. Which is not to say he hasn't had adjustments - just that they're farther and fewer between and somewhat personal in nature. But I've been thinking long and hard and reading back through my blog (and ever so grateful for every entry I've made about this adventure of adopting Alex) and I've decided there's a few things I want to document so that I can remember and  that maybe some day - when I'm dead and gone, - my Alex will want to read and realize just how much love and nurturing went into his upbringing? 

So, he took Child Development last semester and came home one day and announced that he cannot bond because he wasn't held and loved as a baby. 

Oh. My. 

What I loved was that he came forward and shared this fact with me - I would be so sad if he had kept it bottled up. I was able to share with him that although he cannot remember being loved and held that his birth father and perhaps even his birth mother must have held and loved him because he can bond. He has bonded with us. That maybe his birth mother's neglect/alcoholism started after his birth father's death (when he was four) and that I felt that we had most certainly bonded. The look of relief on his face was priceless. I asked him if he felt like we had a bond? And he admitted he did.

You could tell he was just so confused with what he had learned in class about the importance of bonding at a young age and the ability to bond later. 

Then he came home another day and told me that he's stupid at math because he wasn't nurtured as a child. I had to explain that I being a first child, and first grandchild KNOW I was nurtured and loved but that I was bad at math too. He realized that had to be true. And quickly realized he couldn't blame his poor math grade on his birth parents. 

But this is the thing I really wanted to write about:

We were out to lunch one day - just him and I - and he had started dating a girl who lives with her niece. He was over to her house and witnessed this girl hugging and loving on this niece of hers and shared with me how painful that was to watch. I asked why? 

"Because I don't know what that's like. I wasn't loved when I was a baby." 

I then realized and asked,  "Is it hard to watch me with Harper (our new grand baby)?"

His eyes filled with tears just a little and he nodded. 

Oh my sweet son. 

My heart just ached for him. 

I reached across the table and held his hand and looked into those watery eyes and told him that had he been mine from the first that I would have loved on him and covered him with kisses and hugs just like I do with Harper. And that rather than feel hurt when he sees us lavish love on this sweet baby, that he needs to realize that this is how we would have loved him and to live and feel our love of him through Harper. To not feel hurt or left out but to embrace that he too is loved this very much.

He nodded and then I shared with him how much I wanted to cover him with kisses when he first got home and hold him tight but that at the ripe old age of almost 11 - I was certain I would have freaked him out. 

Then last week we were talking about tender mercies. Recognizing the Lord's hand in our life and the tender mercies he sends and I asked him to name some tender mercies in his life? 

He named Alexis - the girl his dating. (And quite smitten with as well.)

I admitted that she had come along at a time in his life where he really needed a friend and that she's a sweet girl and a good example.

What else Alex?

Harper.

Harper our baby?

Yes. 

He finds her a tender mercy in his life. A way to see and feel the love that he feels he missed as a baby. 

He's also super cute with Harper and although he won't fight for a turn to hold her like the aunties do - if I just plant her in his arms he just rubs her head and gazes at her. It's the sweetest thing to see this strapping young man hold this beautiful, tiny baby. 

And what about Alexis? 

Oh. I'm struggling. You see? He's still a baby to me. MY BABY. And if not a baby then my little six year old - because he's only been home six years. And it's been really hard for this mama to watch him wear his heart on his sleeve and fall head over heels. And I can't tell you the angst I feel worrying about the "what ifs" the poor boy has had more talks on virtue, moral cleanliness & proper dating techniques then all my other children combined. I just feel like he's so not ready for a relationship - or at least I'm not ready. 

Luckily she really is a very nice girl and try as I might, I really can't find much fault with her. 

He came home last night after their double date and shared that they're trying to decide what they "are". As in defining their relationship. ((Sigh))

As much as I've preached about not exclusively dating or having a girlfriend. I don't think it matters  much what I say anymore. As much as I want him to STOP GROWING UP and be my little boy (although four inches taller) for a little while longer. He won't. He can't. He's almost 17 and I only have him home for two  more years. Just typing that makes me misty. 

He's not the only one that missed the first 11 years of childhood, family life, hugs and snuggles. 

This mama did too. 

My baby is having a baby!

I've realized over the course of my life that there are many things about being a mom that people neglect to tell you about. So, I'm here to serve you people of the Internet with a few little things I have learned through the hard-knocks of this adventure of Motherhood. 

• Boys love to talk about anything related to the potty. You can always get them to laugh or divert their attention from shots, stitches or their broken arm being set if you crack a joke that is potty related. 
• Girls are going to cry. About everything. Sometimes the only thing to do is let them cry, cry with them or pat their back and gesture to your husband that you have no idea what this about but shut the door on your way out! 
• Sometimes your kid will get bullied and those mama bear hairs that stand up on the back of your neck and that instinct to personally take out the bully needs to be quickly curbed because you're going to need to talk your husband down as he's planning an ambush all on his own and he's serious. 
•  Girlfriend drama starts early and pretty much never ends. 
• Boys LIKE to hit each other. And wrestle, and jump off stuff, and climb stuff and light stuff on fire. Be sure to have good health & home owners insurance.
• Auditions or tryouts are NERVE WRACKING FOR A MOM! Doesn't matter what it is.  Dance team, basketball, drill, student government, scholarships you name it! It's easier to audition yourself then wait on pins and needles worrying about if you have the right words to comfort them if they don't make it and the time, energy, money and carpool schedule if they do. 
• Driving is awesome - once they actually survive the first few months, you adjust your budget to the additional insurance premium for a 16 year old and their first snow storm. 
• Friends matter. A lot. Do everything you can to be the Kool-aid house. Know their friends and get involved in their activities. Volunteer for everything and enjoy those one on one moments in the car after you drop off all the friends.  And it's very possible that three teenage boys will be sitting in your kitchen playing Minecraft on three different computers talking in what you assume is a foreign language since you can't make heads of tails of anything they're saying to each other. But the point is they're HERE. In your home! 
• No matter how cool you use to be - you're not now. And when you use their lingo - you'll sound stupid. Just don't go there. 
• College drop off hurts your heart - don't listen to country music for the drive there or back. You. Will. Cry . This is the first time (besides EFY or camp) that you won't be waiting up to make sure they're home safe and tucked into their messy, unmade bed. That you'll be short a number or two in your mental head count for semesters at a time and when the come home - they're no longer the young girl or boy your dropped off but a young adult use to living on tehir own. 
• Roommate drama happens for boys and girls. Girls will call home and want to read you blow by blow text exchanges with said roommate.  Boys will tell you about it months later when they've been home for a while in and off handed way and shrug. 

I'm realizing I could go on and on but the title of this blog entry is the real reason I'm writing. You see? I am on grandma alert. As in I may (or may not) graduate to Grandma status in the next 24 hours. (Contractions 8-10 minutes apart) Now there's something NO ONE EVER TELLS YOU ABOUT! 

Is there even a book about it? 

"How To Be A Fabulous Grandma 101" 

Because I'll tell you - I'd read it! 

First off there's that earth shattering moment when your daughter (or son) tells you!  If you add all your adult birthdays and Christmases together it does not even come close to the excitement you feel! It's incredible.  And if they tell you in a sushi restaurant full of patrons and you have to tap that excitement down? You just might want to explode - that or run from table to table telling everyone, "I'm going to be a grandma!"

Then there's the morning sickness and your baby girl is sick and you remember so well and you cannot pitch hit this one for her. It's her baby. Literally. 

The fun part is the shopping and shopping and did I mention shopping? (I am trying to make a mental note of what I've spent so I'm sure to do this for each of my babies 1st baby. One thing I want to be for sure is fair grandma.) 

But as of Thursday night (membranes stripped, contractions started, then stopped, then started again) we've been waiting and it's killing me!!! I mean auditions and tryouts were bad but this? This is REAL LIFE! My baby girl is having her own baby and I get weepy just thinking about it. 

And worried? 

Oh. My. Gosh. 

If I hear one more horror birth story I'm going to scream! I don't want to think about the what ifs.  I just want both of these baby girls safe and healthy and here! 

I'm two hours out from the hospital and today is the official due date. I was six days late with my first and so I don't want to get there too early and wait for 3-4 days - I mean, I really want my son-in-law to still like me after this event. I'm just on call - waiting for that call - and my heart jumping into my throat ever time I see Kam's or Cam's name on my caller ID. 

I spent the day running errands and then stress shopped. (Again with the shopping.) 

I've got ONE more blanket to finish the edge on - but I was saving that for the hospital because if my baby girl is anything like her mama - we will have plenty of time. 

And now, I'm stress blogging. 

I did that a lot those first years of Alex being home. It was cheap therapy AND I have loved looking back and remembering - I would have forgotten so much - and I realized that I want to remember ever moment of Baby Harper's entrance into this world. I want her to know I love her. I have loved her from the day I found out about her and she was only as big as a poppy seed. 

And despite not knowing a thing about being a grandma - except the example of a few fabulous grandmas of my own - I pledge to be the very best grandma I can and I can't wait for tea parties, bubble baths in my claw foot tub and sleep overs. 

'"Making the decision to have a child - it is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body. "

My hearts been going in 5 different directions for years. 

Six directions once Cameron joined our family and now? 

Part of my heart is with my Harp. 

This is for you Harper Leola - I hope you read it someday maybe when you become a grandma too? 

Dear Baby Harper,

This is Grandma Wendy. Just writing you the first letter I've ever written as a grandma. I just want you to know how wanted and loved you are. 

And it's time sweetheart. 

Say your goodbyes to heaven little girl - give those sweet grandmas of ours one last kiss and tell them that I know I have big shoes to fill but I'm ready - your mama and daddy are ready too. They're going to be amazing parents. They're amazing people and you are going to LOVE them! 

Don't be scared baby girl - we're here for you. 

I can't wait to see your sweet face - be strong - birth is not easy but you're a strong one. (I've seen you kick your mama's tummy.) You're going to do great. 

Your mom and dad  and I will be there the minute you take your first breath and we along with your other grandmas and grandpas and many aunts, uncles and cousins will love you forever! 

God speed my sweet grand-baby girl.

Love,

Grandma W

Catch Up!

I haven't written for awhile but that doesn't mean that things are slow around here!

In the last month we have secured SIX jobs. 

Austin @ Winco -in the deli - mostly frying chicken (but hoping to get on with an airlines as a flight attendant in the near future)

Devree @ The U (summer camp counselor - plus she still works for Chuck a Rama)

Alex @ Murray Rec & SL County (working as a life guard)

Rylee @ Coldstone & Precision Sleep Center (cleaning) 

Whew! 

Kambree is due to have Harper in 12 days! I am on terminal hold until she arrives! I tell everyone, "Yes, I'll be there....unless my grand baby decides to come!" Every time I see her or Cam's name on caller ID my heart jumps into my throat!

Austin had his shoulder surgery in April and is almost back to full use - he had SIX anchors in his labrum. (Due to an old snow boarding accident)  He is looking to move out with friends this summer. 

Devree finished her first year at Snow, returned home and is working furiously to make money this summer to return to school. She keeps telling me how she'll be Harper's #1 babysitter.  

Alex's JV Water polo team took 2nd place and he's joining the swim team next year. He is also going to start rebuilding/repairing his Camero this summer. He's super excited about that and he's promised me the first ride (once it's actually running) and we're going to play the Dead Milk Man's 80's hit "Bitchin Camero". 

Rylee tried out and made drill team at Murray High and practice has already begun and will continue all through the summer. She's excited for drill but it was sadness and tears at her recital as she had to hang up her tap and toe shoes. 

James is currently between contracts and super busy repairing and updating our house and cars. I am still selling real estate, serving in young women's and attempting to keep everyones schedules on one calendar and get my busy 15 year old to and from drill and work. 

We've been very blessed and so looking forward to being grandparents! 

Here's an facebook post I wrote recently:

Things I'm learning about raising a mechanically inclined son:
1. Do not put out white hand towels in the bathroom closest to the garage.
2. DO remind him that school clothes are not to be worn when popping the hood for ANY reason - including just checking the oil.
3. Investing in an industrial size box of large disposable gloves MIGHT make his hands look clean enough to eat a sandwich -but only if he remembers to wear them. 
4. Acting interested in car parts/paint jobs/accessories requires you to dig deep into your acting/paying attention skills.
5. Going to the Pick N Pull - is fun?
6. Tranny's, blocks, front ends, spark plugs - doesn't matter how hard you pay attention - you're going to use the wrong word and ask an impossible question that will earn you an eye roll. You might as well just not say anything.
7. While driving with the family he'll point out make, model & year and then debates horsepower with his dad - You on the other hand will ask "Are we talking about the cute blue car with the Mickey Mouse family of five vinyl?"
8. And last but not least - he knows where your hood pop thingy is better than you do, visually inspects for low tires every time he gets in your car and is the best to have around when you leave your lights on or need to fill up at the gas station.

Feeling blessed!

I just returned from Women's Conference.

I wasn't planning on going but Rylee was asked at the last minute to be on the panel as a teen representative in the parenting class. She did a great job. I sat through the first class/panel and she was so tender and teary - anyone that knows Ry knows that the tears come easily. But I was so proud of her and she told me during the 2nd session she didn't cry at all. (Which is funny that she cried in the first place? I think it was nerves and she has a head cold?  Also maybe the fact that I was sitting there as she was getting quizzed on parenting teens - gulp. That would make me nervous! The moderator/family counselor told her she was just bringing the Spirit to the class.)  She got many compliments during the luncheon afterwards and was so gracious and beautiful about it all.

Austin got up early to go sing with a choir that will be performing for firesides. Yep. He got up on his own at 8'oclock on a Saturday to get to practice.He's still looking for work but it's difficult knowing he'll need shoulder surgery in 3 weeks and out of commission for a month. But despite his difficult circumstances he has good spirits and is so fun to be with. I love having him accompany me on my errands. Monday he went with me house shopping in Manti and he drove both directions. Four hours total. And then yesterday he accompanied me to Costco. Which is always fun and costly because he talks me into buying all kinds of crazy things I don't usually buy.

Kam and Cam are under contract on a cute grandma house in Manti. I'm so excited for them and only 98 more days until Harper's due date! I'm so proud of both of them working so hard in school and work. Cameron is such a great husband and I know he's going to be an amazing dad. Kambree's been a lover of all living things since she was tiny and cried because her pet slugs slimmed away in the night. She's going to be a fabulous mom.  AND I can't wait to see them make this darling grandma house their own and super can't wait for Harper to make her entrance into this world! I get butterflies thinking about it. Kambree's invited me to actually BE IN THE ROOM when she has the baby - which makes me anxious and scared in one breath but terribly flattered and excited in the next. I  wouldn't miss it for the world. It makes me teary to think of my baby girl bringing our grand baby girl into this world. I thought my heart was pretty full with my 5 children and one son in law but I think being a grandma is going to be the best!! And I can feel my heart growing right along with Kambree's tummy!

My Dev is working hard at school and trying to decide if she wants to put her mission papers in or continue her schooling. Either way she makes me so stinking proud of her. I mean she's got two great option's and a good head on her shoulders. When so many girls her age are struggling she is blossoming into the most amazing woman and no matter what Devree decides - she'll be fabulous at it. She always has been. So driven and focused. I think of her a sister missionary and my face just smiles. Her loud, crazy and uplifting personality draws people to her and then -  BAM - she'll share the gospel and her soft and sweet Spirit and no one's going to stand a chance!! Sister Richhart. She'll rock it. If that's what she decides to do. I have no doubt.

And then there's Alex. 

As I sat listening to a mom behind me between classes share her struggles about her Ukrainian adopted son that is living away from home in private high school setting and having struggles, I thought of my Alex. My Alex  who got up and went to on his own to attend his 3rd MMA class this week. (Yes, he's taken up Mixed Marshal Arts - he tells me he won't be a cage fighter but I have my worries - right now he's just working on skills.)  He made the JV water polo team again and is getting A's and B's and a C or two and he's just so much fun to be with and growing into such a charming and responsible young man.

I came home and offered to make the boys lunch and Alex requested a baloney quesadilla. As I plopped the toasted melty odd concoction on his plate he told me I was "The mom dot com".  Then later he came and planted a kiss on my forehead and announced he was going to take a shower. Just like that. Everyday he hugs me, comes and stands next to me with arm around my shoulders and every so often he plants a kiss on my cheek or forehead. He's just sweet and good. Or at least trying to be.....

Then there's my hubby, James who loves me despite my shortcomings and takes such good care of us. He works far away in cold temps for weeks at a time and then works more at home making sure our cars run and our house doesn't fall apart. 

Nope. He's not super romantic - but he's not one to show love with flowers, cards and gifts. He shows love with his patience, and  mad fixing skills. (I realized this today in the 2nd class I took regarding marriage!)

So I wanted to take a minute and record my feelings.

 I just feel blessed. 

Very, very blessed......7 times and soon to be 8 times over! 

Journal

It's Sunday and I thought I'd write a few thoughts down....

Alex had is Eagle court of honor on January 4th. His project was mailed off to Ukraine January 2nd of 2014 and it's taken us that long to get all his paper work, board of review and documentation done to hold his court.

It was a great night - except for the parent fail of sewing all his merit badges on the wrong side of his sash-thing so that he had to wear it on the wrong side of his body so when I had to pin his eagle pin on - it was on the wrong side of his shirt! I wanted to die - and of course we figured out everything was on the wrong side 10 minutes before the court! Apparently our ward isn't really "big" into scouting or no one really noticed? And since Alex has been wearing this sash for the past four years on the wrong side - someone could have said something at any time! Argh! 

The other thing? When I bought Alex his shirt at age 12 he was swimming in it! As you can see in the pictures - he could barely keep the top button buttoned up! (And it's barely tucked in!) Not sure he would have fit in it if we had waited one more month!

Thank goodness we are DONE with scouting. 

Alex and Austin have been spending a lot of time playing video games. It drives me crazy. What a waste. I finally told them they have to spend as much time improving themselves as they do playing video games. So minute for minute these character building things count towards video gaming time:

Reading

Writing in their journal

Playing a musical instrument

Service

Homework

Listening to TED talks or Youtube tutorials that TEACH you something

Extra jobs around the house

And scripture reading count double!

I don't know if they're really policing it like they should but someday when they realize that they've gained nothing by playing video games they can think back about how mom TRIED to get them to do something better with their life? 

Gah.

Last week was our last week of "mom school". Alex took Drivers Ed over the summer and couldn't find a class 2nd term so he had parent release. Loved it. Wish we still had it. for 1 hour and 15 minutes every other morning I had Alex's undivided attention to teach him about anything I wanted. We learned about being a gentleman, dating, seminary lessons, he worked on writing his life history and we studied the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teenagers. We didn't finish so every minute he spends studying it with me also counts for double minutes of video game time.

Both boys are getting their hunter safety so they can hunt this year.

James is away at work. We're not sure how long this job's going to last with the falling price of gas. It's hard as I see people post pictures at the gas pump and rejoice in the cost of gas when I know it will cause so many to lose their jobs. 

Grand baby news: We're having a girl! Woot! She's the size of a pomegranate this week and her mama just started her final semester of RN school. We've been looking at house in Sanpete County as Cameron is committed to work in Gunnision for the next three years.
Kambree and I went on our first shopping trip for Harper - what she thinks she'll name this baby girl - last week. Oh. My. Goodness!!! So much fun!

Alex and the girls update:
Right before Christmas break Alex had decided that a certain girl in Lehi wasn't right for him. (Hurray!) Why? Because her name doesn't sound good with our last name. (Eye roll from me - but whatever!) I asked him what name sounded good with our last name? (Yes, I'm prying.) He told me a name I didn't know. I asked if she was cute? He said it was just a made up name. (Okay. Whatever.)
The next day we went and did some service as part of mom school and recruited all the kids (we gave donuts and milk out to the poor and homeless downtown) and that day after school X came home beaming -  he had asked out a girl that he'd had a crush on since 7th grade and she said YES! Then he was off to work (he works at Chick Fil A - not sure I ever updated that on my blog) and called home telling me that a girl with the exact made up name from the night before was coming over to hang out! (And it is not a common name!)  He hung out with her Friday and invited her to our extended family Christmas party on Saturday. On Monday he took another girl ice skating and then after Christmas he had his big date with his crush. I had told him he could take my car but it had snowed and he had never driven in the snow. I had to retract  my car offer but I did take him in his car and practice driving to the girls house (she lived up east and he had no idea how to get to her house) and then we practiced driving the route to a lunch place and bowling.
That weekend he had ANOTHER girl over with a few friends to watch a movie.
And just yesterday he had ANOTHER girl over and took her to the car show and then came back here to hang out.
Whew.
He's toned it down some since his expensive bowling date - although the car show date was a little pricy and they only stayed for 45 minutes!. We have a family rule that you can't date the same person two times in a row - that way avoiding steady girlfriends or boy friends? Yeah. We've been there done that with older siblings.

And since I'm a pretty avid Facebook poster here's some posts that tell a little more about our life.....

Nov 20th

 Proud mama (in-law) moment! Cameron graduated from officer training today! We're so glad he takes such good care of our Kam and our soon to be be born grand baby. Love you CKam's!!

Nov 24th

 "Mom! Look, I won on Words with Friends! See I am good at vocabularization!" (Upon realizing it's not a real word, he's declared he's created it!) ‪#‎englishasasecondlanguageprobs‬

Nov 25th

 Last nights laugh:
X: What cruise line again?
Me: Norwegian.
X: AUSTIN!! There's going to be Norwegian women!!

Dec 10th

You know you're out of ideas when you've resorted to Google "gift ideas for your 20 year old son". Gah! So much easier when he was little!

 Dec 13th

Recital day! 1 day, 4 concerts, 16 dances, 4 costumes, one big bun, and her first duct taped chest. I know she'll remember ever step but let's hope the lashes stay glued, the bun stays in and we eventually get the duct tape off! ‪#‎adancerslife‬ ‪#‎murraycommunitydance‬

Dec 14th

Me: (yesterday) Ry! Hurry! You're late for your call time. (Yesterday's marathon of recitals.) You don't have time to clean the fish bowl.
Ry: But mom, it's dirty. He's going to die.
Me: He's not going to die. He'll live for one day in a dirty bowl. It's not that bad.
Guess who's dead this morning? Ry's fish!! Gah!!!! I know he died just to spite me!

Good bye bulgy eye fish. Can't believe you lived for almost four years! But could you have waited one more day?

Jan 7th

 Merry Ukraine Christmas today!
In a effort to embrace our imported Ukrainian heritage I'm going to try to recreate Heidi Roberts Khoroujnikova's husbands borsch - simmering the beef bones to make soup stock right now. Poor Ukrainian/Russian cooks - there's nothing quick and easy when it comes to cooking their food! (I've learned it's worth the price to buy perogies from European Tastees AND to ask them if I'm buying any chocolates filled with alcohol. (Yep. After giving my child alcohol filled chocolates - in church no less - I have learned! FYI : she said they tasted like something you clean your floor with - that would be vodka. Mom points right there! )

Jan 9th (My birthday)
My kids this morning: Happy Birthday mom!
X: What do you want for your birthday?
Me: Hum? How about you write me a letter?
X: No!! Something that cost money.....unless I can pay someone to write you a letter??

 More X conversations:
Last night - after a funny quip he made that may have implied I am fat - he said in all sincerity, "Mom, you are NOT fat....you're just general size."

Jan 12th

 Oh, My. Heck! He is listening....
X: Mom, (as I'm making dinner) would you like to be on Master Chef?
Me: No! I would freak out! I'm not that good of a chef!
X: But you'd learn a lot of things.
Me: Yeah, I'd learn how to get kicked off a show real fast!
X: (with a sly smile) Well yes, if you have that kind of attitude....
Me: (bursting out laughing - because I say this to him ALL THE TIME!)
X: Who do you think I learned that from?
Me: I don't know. But she must be brilliant!

Jan 12th 

(posted on a private FB page for parents that have adopted older children)
Parent pay day. My children were teasing me about how they're ALL my favorite. "You're my favorite oldest daughter, you're my favorite 14 year old etc" and my adopted son (adopted from Ukraine at age 10.9 now 16.6) later asked "How can I be your favorite when I caused you so much work?" I was taken back. I didn't realize he recognized the extra effort I'd extended on his behalf. We were alone and I told him "The things you work hardest for - you love the most." "Thanks mom. You turned my frown upside down. I know I don't smile much (we joke about his Ukraine "smile"/lack of it) but I smile more because of your help." Be still my heart.

Jan 14

I have three songs going on right now. Three different songs. Three different voices - no not radio/ipod....singing! Joy!
— feeling blessed.

Jan 16

I've decided we're going to watch Master-chef Junior each day before dinner prep (thanks to Hulu+) because as I was making broccoli to go with dinner X took over saying "Here mom, I got this!" and chopped, sautéed and seasoned like he was a participant. Ha! (Of course I played the part of Gordon Ramsey - when he's nice - like he is on the junior show - not like the bad guy in Hells Kitchen!)

Jan 18th

 My favorite English faux pas this week:
"Mom, will you rub my back face?" (The back of his head.)
"This microphone makes my voice sound graspy." (Raspy)
And he's taken to calling me homey, "Sounds good homey." To which I always reply, "I'm your mommy - not your homey!" He's not amused by it and it doesn't really rhyme but it's the best I could come up with.

Merry Christmas!

Gosh. Is it really Christmas again. I know people told me when my babies were small to enjoy this time - that it would fly by but I swear, having teens and young adults goes even faster! It's crazy to think in 3.5 years all my kids will be out of high school. 3.5 years is a blink! 

I'd ask my kids to write updates but it would be torture for so many and others would just ignore the assignment so, I'm going to write them myself.

Starting at the top!

Kambree and Cameron. 

Dang! I am so stinking proud of these two. They work so hard. 

Kambree finished her first year of nursing school last spring and is currently committed to working as a RD (residence director) for Snow college in addition to completing her 2nd year of nursing school. 

But more importantly she is growing us our first ever grand baby! Each Saturday she sends an update on the babies projected size. When I first learned of this beautiful child (because you know this baby is going to be a doll!) he/she was no bigger than a poppy seed. And now he/she is onion sized! 

 The CKam's were tied to, managed a hotel in Manti until July. Although there is still a lot of commitment being a RD we've sure enjoyed seeing them more since the hotel gig ended.

Cameron just finished 15 weeks of training at the police academy and as of this week is working at the Gunnison Correctional Facility.  He takes such good care of our Kam and our soon to be grand baby. I joke with him that hes' set the bar pretty high for the other kids spouses - but I'm not joking - we couldn't have hand-picked a better spouse for our Kambree. 

Kam will graduate with her RN the first of May and the baby is expected at the end! 

Austin

Our Austy finished up a year at Snow and moved home. Over the summer he worked for South Jordan City in the Parks and Recreation Maintenance Dept. He is now quite proficient with a weed wacker. He's been laid off since the end of October and just secured employment at PC Lap Tops  - be sure to call him if you need a computer! 

He's taken to growing facial hair as of late. Currently he's shaved but for the majority of 2014 he sported a beard that in time - actually looked like a beard and not Shaggy from Scooby-Do. 

He has no plans for a mission and that I know of - he has no one special in his life but he's at that age where he doesn't want to tell me too much or share too much about his life. He likes being evasive. Trust me - he's giving us grey hair & the is often the topic of the "3 am committee in my head" but he is so fun to be around and so persuasive and charming  that we just throw up our hands and love him.  (The other kids joke that we'll never have an empty nest - Austin will always be at home with us. No. He'll move on. Someday.  He's just a slow bloomer - always has been.)

Devree

Wow. Dev graduated with a 3.9 last spring and worked at Chuck A Rama until leaving for Snow this fall. She's a freshman attending on a full tuition scholarship. She's learned a lot this first semester about the drama of living with roommate and how good it is to come home and eat a home cooked meal!  Recently she experimented dying her hair black - but despite how that sounds - she looks fabulous. She really did well her first semester of college and she's thinking about going into social work. 

She has such a close bunch of friends here at home that she's had friends over or gone out with friends every night since coming home.(I have to admit I miss her friends too - except after midnight - then I want everyone to go home and go to bed!)  She's also said good bye for two years to  many of her guy friends as they've left to serve missions. There's been many a tear shed during those goodbyes. No one special  - just lot's of special guy friends.

Alex

I look up at Alex these days and think "Wow. How did we get so lucky?" He's such a joy. He's literally growing in front of our eyes (five foot eleven at the last measurement) but he's figuratively grown too. He's not a little boy anymore even though I feel like he should be 5 - I've only him for 5 years. He got his drivers license this year, earned his Eagle and started dating. He loves cars and girls - but not necessarily in that order. He's still playing water polo and won the MVP award during the fall tournament. As much as he'll tell you 10th grade is boring and he hates it - he's doing okay. A's & B's. He's working at Chick-Fil-A and sometimes wears the cow mascot costume. He's always been super cuddly with his mom and he's realizing just how much more fun it is to cuddle with cute girls - oy - give me strenght!

Rylee

Our other freshman is doing fabulous! Her hair is past her waist and a topic of conversation wherever we go. She's dancing on Murray Community's Company team three nights a week and maintaining a 4.0 GPA. She too has a fun group of friends boys and girls alike - that keep her busy every weekend. She LOVES to bake and has made some exquisite desserts this year  and she's very torn if she'll dance in high school or take Pro Start (a culinary program). She can't do both - they conflict. Whatever she does - she'll do great. Except math. Math makes her cry.

James & Wendy

James is working as a private contractor safety consultant in North Dakota. Two weeks on and two weeks off. This is his first winter in ND - and it's already bitter cold. When he's not working he enjoys riding his motorcycles both road & dirt wit his boys, fishing, camping and snowboarding with his sons. (Although he's decided to take up skiing as snowboarding is really kicking his can!) . He's also proficient at home repairs - something he doesn't enjoy as much and if things would stop breaking and needing fixing he could ride his bikes more! 

I (Wendy) am just trying to hold the fort down most the time. I still ride my bike but I've decided that the next 3.5 years of mothering are more important than miles logged and I'm just trying to stay fit enough to really start riding when the kids are gone. I just recently got called to serve in the Young Women's presidency and I'm looking forward to working with my Ry and going to girls camp. 

Ella our dog is still around, doing tricks for treats, and barking at anyone entering the house. 

We've been blessed this year with great employment, good health and lots of fun memories. We look forward to making more memories, becoming grandparents and watching these darlings of ours figure themselves out and take flight. ((Gulp)) 

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and stand as a witness to you all that God lives. That Jesus is the Christ and that through him we may have eternal life and be with our families forever. 

God bless you!

The Richharts

Mom School

Over the summer Alex completed drivers ed but was registered for careers & drivers ed first term.  I pointed this out to his school counselor and he told me not to worry, he has to have careers and he'd find him an alternate class for 2nd term. 

Well? 2nd term started last week and lo and behold there was nothing he could take! (He'd missed the first 9 weeks of everything and anything like weight lifting, peer tutor or choir were full or not available that hour.) So?? He has parental release which means.......MOM SCHOOL! (And dad as substitute/co teacher on days he's home!)  We have about 4 days under our belt so far and WE LOVE IT! (At least James and I - Alex has yet to voice his opinion.) 

So far we've worked on:

Conversation Skills

Being a Gentleman

Writing: He's working on writing his life history

Reading: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens 

and he and James have watched several TED talks on goals, having a positive outlook, and putting your past behind you. 

We've even watched a couple of church videos. 

It' s awesome.

The deal is he has to get up, get ready, have breakfast and scriptures, drive Ry to school and then comes home for Mom school for an hour and 15 minutes then heads to school. 

Today he needed 30 minutes to study and finish a project for biology then we read a little of  our 7 Habits book and then I had him read an entry of my blog out loud. I chose the day we went to court to adopt him. He remembers so little about his adoption. 

There was a part in there where I wrote about how Alex was sitting on my lap at the notary's office even when there was a chair right next to me. I then turned to him and explained that he loved sitting on my lap back then he looked at me and with a wink said, "I still do." 

That made me laugh. 

Yeah. It's true.

Granted he doesn't fit as well as he use to - he's 5'11"  and he doesn't sit on my lap as much as he use to but here and there he'll plop down on my lap and lay his head on my shoulder. It only last a minute because it's not physically comfortable for either of us but I cherish those few minutes. 

Anyway, back to Mom School - James commented last week that we should have done this with all our kids! It's so great to have one on one time with children and especially when they  pay attention and a willing heart and mind. It' so hard to find those opportunity's regularly. 

Here's hoping it lasts! 

Journal

This week I had the opportunity to travel to Washington DC with my mom and sister! 

My sis was having a work meeting and since I'm on mom's United benefits we flew standby (free) and stayed in Kam's hotel (again free!).  It was a fun trip. We saw the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Memorial, White House (just from the lawn), went to the Holocaust Museum (so sad), Arlington Cemetery where we saw JKF's grave, the Tomb of The Unknown Solider and my favorite, General Lee's House. (I love old houses and I'm pretty sure this is the oldest house I have ever viewed?)
Mom and I made all our flights and it was great to talk late into the night with my mom and sis. Poor Kam had to go to meetings but spent most of the day with us one day and then the nights each night. 

I came home Thursday afternoon then left for the Wonder Woman Ride in Payson Friday night. Amy and I had planned to go months ago and we ended up with a fun crew from our ward. Janie, Ronda, Allyson, Lori, & Ashley. It was a beautiful day. When I told my kids I was leaving, again, they (as in Ry and Alex) groaned a little - they had admitted to missing me during my DC trip. (Rylee's words were "I missed you so much! I am tired of being the mom!" and Alex's were "I can't play water polo without your food, mom!" meaning my cooking. He ate terrible the whole time I was gone. Not sure a veggie was consumed the whole time I was gone? )  Then Alex put on a happy face and told me he was glad I was getting away for a ride. They've been far a few between this summer. 

Alex has been filling out resumes and applying for work all over the place. He's interviewed at The Rec center - no positions available, Harmons as a bagger - they didn't ask him back for a 2nd interview, the movie theater -  that pays $5 an hour for the first 90 days (how can they get away with that?) and applied at Chick Fil A, Chuck A Rama, Papa Murphy's and a few other places I'm forgetting. Saturday he got an interview with Papa Murphy's. I was in Payson Friday night when he text with the news. I prepped him to iron a shirt and bring a resume and to be FRIENDLY! He went and said it went well and then proceeded to get his food handlers permit online - all while I was on my bike ride. He decided that he needs to get it one way or another and without asking me he just paid and took care of it! 

Then last night - around 7pm they called and offered him the job!
He's employed!
I can tell he is relieved . All day today he keeps fist bumping me and reminding me that he has a job! (I think he just likes to say it out loud?) He also told me that now that he's working he's going to ask a  girl to the next dance. I told him I'd spot him for homecoming next month and he could pay me back? But since he's one of the few that are 16 in his grade he's decided to wait until more girls are 16.

Today was the Ogden Temple Rededication so we went to the Stake Center to witness it via satellite as opposed to church. When we got to the waving of the handkerchief part, you'd think Alex thought we were having a handkerchief war as opposed to a nice waving! Sometimes hanging out with teens is fun - even if it is irreverent. 

Devree came home for the weekend - she was there to be the "adult" while I was in Payson as I was hoping Austin would be in North Dakota working but he's yet to secure employment. She came home anyway and spent some time with her siblings. I laughed out loud at her Snapchat of her and Austin singing in the car on their way to get burritos. She's so fun to have home and she's loving Snow. 

Ry's been a bit sick but is in the kitchen making something yummy for dessert today. She sure loves to bake! And she is really good at it. 

Kambree is hard at work down in Ephraim going to RN school and working as a RD while her cute husband is at the police academy training to be a prison guard. They make me so proud working so hard and taking care of each other. I just hope all my other children find such great spouses. I kid but I'm serious when I say that Cameron has set the bar high for the other kids spouses.

Speaking of spouses....Alex is girl crazy. And scarier - some girls are crazy about him. He met a girl over the summer that he is continually Snapchatting and who continually gets him in trouble. He had his phone taken away for a week for Snapchatting her through Sunday school and priesthood. (Part of the smartphone contract is NO using your phone during church meetings except for scriptures and hymns.) Then while I was in DC he Snap-Chatted her after his 10 pm school night curfew. Then while in Payson he neglected to let me know where he was going BEFORE he went anywhere AND he put friends in his car to take them home - and he's still in his 6 month probation of NO FRIENDS IN THE CAR - a law - not my rule. 

So guess who got ALL the main floor walls washed on Saturday? Yep. I told him that I'd just have to work his butt off to help him remember these basic rules! 

Oy!

The one great thing about Alex (well, there are many but this one is particularly endearing) is that he truly is repentant and admits to his mistakes. It makes it hard to follow through on consequences sometimes because he's so contrite but being the "mean"mom that I am (and in hopes that I'm doing my part to shape him into a responsible and honorable man) I do follow through. 

AND 

Alex finally got his EAGLE! 

9 months later he finally had his Board Review and he passed! 

Now we're just waiting for his certificate and then we have to plan his Court of Honor? I really have no idea.....we've never done this before. 

James is hard at work in ND. 

And I'm here - holding the fort down - except when I'm flying off to DC and going on bike rides with my girlfriends.....

Lame Facebook Journaling

My freshman college daughter, Devree has inspired me to write more in my blog. She's keeping a blog to document her college experience and I just LOVE to read it . She's so funny. You can click on her over on my "blogs I follow" side bar.
So,.... here's my lame attempt to catch up. Yes. I do journal. Sort of? I make Facebook posts. So....here's my catch up since January of just SOME of my posts:

Feb 1st: Wow. Attending a baptism on Saturday morning must be hard for teenagers? They all fell asleep on the ride home.

Feb 3rd:I'm subbing at Riverview in art. (And I can't even draw stick people!) I haven't been in this classroom since 7th grade and I'm just now remembering how awful my experience in here was. Not the class itself but the nasty boys that would whisper nasty things and write despicable suggestions on my desk. Needless to say, I told this class my experience and that I'd be listening to their conversations and if anyone feels unsafe, disrespected or uncomfortable to see me. (And that I'd be escorting anyone to the office with potty talk.) The class got awfully quiet for a minute. Good grief. Amazing how a room can trigger such vivid memories.

Feb 5th: Subbing special education today. Part of my day was spent shadowing students in their regular classes and keeping them on task. I was warned about two girls that write notes and giggle. I sat behind them and asked in my coolest, hip teacher manner to please pay attention and not pass notes? "Oh, sure!" they said. 10 minutes later one turns around and hands me a folded paper? She wrote ME a note!! Telling me I'm pretty and I have nice make up and to please write back? (Eye roll) Seriously? 
Yes, sort of sweet but it not quite as lovely as my compliment from Art class Monday (said to Alex), " Dang, your mom is hot!" to which Alex replied "Shut up!! That's my mom!" Ha! Junior high. So fun.

Feb 7th: Not sure I like being the mom of an apparent "heart throb"? I had girls blushing in class today upon finding out I was a certain young man's mom? And then I had reports from other students of just WHO has a crush on my darling son. Oh joy. And when I ask my boy about it? He just shrugs with a twinkle in his eye. Give me strength to get through these next 3.5 years of school......

Feb 12th: Service announcement for my cyclist friends: 
Watch out for wheel chairs! Yesterday I got hit on my bike by a lady in a wheel chair. Yes. True. I was up on a curb to avoid being ran over by the buses whizzing by on Redwood Road around 39th South (FYI not a good road for biking, absolutely NO shoulder, not even a white line to ride on - my bad.), waiting for the light and this lady lost control of her jazzy type wheel chair and ran into me. I almost got knocked into the street. I was so startled. She apologized and I made sure she was okay but I'm still shaking my head...."Did that really just happen?"

Feb 12th: My crazy kids:
Remember Ralphie on "A Christmas Story" and how he put an ad for his Red Ryder BB Gun in his mom's magazine? Well, my Rylee Richhart is doing the same with ads for Disneyland. So far I found a Getaway Today ad in my locker, my purse and my boot! Apparently, there are two more.....hidden somewhere.
And now, Devree Richhart and Rylee have made our dog Ella an Instagram account. Yep. Our dog. Follow her at "ella_dawg". So far she has 14 followers. Which might be more than I have?
Feb 15th: Alex: Mom is Idaho on top of Utah? 
Me: No, it's above Utah, north of Utah.
Austin: Yeah, if it were on top if Utah we'd be covered with dirt and rocks.
Rylee: And potatoes! — with James Richhart and 3 others.

Feb 15th: More road trip conversations:
(we're talking about accents.) 
Alex: I don't have an accent. 
(Which is true and sort of sad to me.)
Me: No, you don't. 
Austin: You probably had an American accent when you spoke Ukraine. 
Me: He WAS in an orphanage for speech impediments. Hum....
Austin: Yeah, he didn't have an impediment, he just had an American accent.

Feb 21st: Today while driving water polo carpool I asked one of the boys if he was excited for his mom to come home?
Boy: Yes!
Alex: How long has she been gone?
Boy: Three weeks. (She was on a service trip to Africa)
Me: Thats a long time to be without a mom.
Alex: Yeah. I was without my mom for 8.5 years. I know how that feels.
(And he said this sincerely, not sarcastically.)
Be still my heart. — feeling loved.

Feb 21st: Upon asking one of my children how the water polo clinic went yesterday? He responded with, "Good. I learned a new manure." I held my face straight and composed for a beat and then I just chortled! (He did not find it amusing and we commenced to have a mini vocabulary lesson on the way to school.)

Dang English. Manure/maneuver so close yet so far away! — feelingamused.

Feb 23rd: Oh joy. I'm reading Romeo and Juliet with Alex and Brach (my nephew) and having the modern day version to compare to is opening my eyes to just how nasty/inappropriate William Shakespeare was. Reading it with 15 year old boys? Quite the uncomfortable laughs from the boys and blushing from the mom/aunt!

Feb 24th: I just got a text from "Minion Rush" telling me not to lose my edge - to come back and show Vector who puts the boo in booyah! 
What the heck? I sure (eye roll) love my kids playing games on my phone. 
I'd like to get their phones to text them about MY activities. Maybe I could start paying BILLS on their phone and they could get texts that say "Don't forget the gas bill is due tomorrow." Or a grocery shopping app? Reminding them to buy milk? Better yet a chores app with motivational texts to get them to do the chores! (Although I do that via text all the time. I actually just send pictures of incomplete or sloppy jobs. No words needed.)

Feb 25th: 

The other day James thought he needed to go to the salvage yard to find some part for Dev's broken car. Alex was so excited. Apparently you need to be 15 years old to go on site? And this would be his first time! Anyway, you would have thought James was telling him he couldn't go to Disneyland when he realized he didn't need to go to the salvage yard after all? Alex was so disappointed.
Here he is helping switch out the headlights in the dark last night. They didn't get the job finished and James promised him he wouldn't finish until he gets home today. Crazy mechanically minded boy!

 

Feb 25th: I'm watching James sort through what looks like "junk" from his dad's shop. He's like a kid at a candy counter and I'm like, "What the heck....???"
Apparently he's always wanted rusty saws, extra 420 amp breakers, leather thread & a bunch of other unrecognizable (by his wife) tools/parts/garage clutter!!

March 8th: Early this week I was having a pity party.  I had so wanted to go to camp in St George and ride with my new cycling team , take my kids  and visit my cousin but my everyday life decided to pull rank. Alex had his first water polo tournament🏊, Ry a mandatory dance workshop  and there was no way we could go. Whaa! 
Little did I know, we'd end up having a great weekend! I had a fun date Friday night with my hubby and spent today cheering on my boy in two games and witnessing his first FIVE goals! (And when you didn't have a mom for the first almost 11 years of your life - it's pretty important to see her up in the stands cheering like a crazy banshee, right?)
We came home to an exhausted Ry who had danced her day away and ate pizza, and piled on the couch to watch Netflix.
Great weekend! Wouldn't have missed it for the world

March 10th:My sweet, little niece is hanging with me today - she's six and home from school not feeling well. I've dug out the old VHS tapes (and figured out how to hook up the VHS player) and she's watching The Little Mermaid. (We've already watched Cinderella) 
I asked her what she'd like for lunch? Mac & Cheese. Oy. I haven't bought that forever, when I told her I didn't have any, she said "That's okay, you can just make EZ Mac & Cheese!" (Ha! I don't think I've EVER bought that!) So, Uncle James is off on the motorcycle to grab a box of mac-n-cheese!

March 10th : Good grief! Last year Alex was 5'5" (as seen below). Exactly a month ago he measured in at 5'9" (and was elated that he was finally taller than me). 
Yesterday, I noticed that his Sunday pants (that we just got him last month) were looking a tad short? I had him stand against our measuring wall and as of last night he is now.... 5'10"!! (But that was last night, he might be taller today based on how quickly he seems to be growing?) Hum....I guess that's the reason he needs TWO sandwiches on his lunch?
Since we have no idea the height of his birth dad and/or his genetic makeup - he's a surprise package unfolding (and unfolding, and unfolding) in front of our eyes!

March 17th: Just spent 45 minutes letting Alex practice parking and driving on the Murray High driving range. (Not a soul around - we were waiting to pick up the dance carpool at 9:45 pm) He was getting frustrated with his parking skills and I asked him if he'd like me to show him "my skills"? He agreed but wanted to observe me from out of the car so he jumped out and while I was impressing him with my most excellent parking abilities - he found a full sized wrapped candy bar in the parking lot! He told me it magically appeared because he was so stressed about parking! Ha!!

March 22nd: Overheard tonight (one younger unnamed brother giving an older unnamed brother unsolicited advice on talking to girls), "Just practice on mom.....she'll never leave you."

March 23rd:My job has taken me to some pretty interesting places. Once I wandered through Castle of Chaos's coffins searching for my seller to snag his signature on a contract (it was super creepy and that was during broad daylight!) and I've walked through my share of interesting/disgusting/unbelievable houses and meet some very interesting/scary/crazy characters. But today - thanks to my job - I learned that visiting someone in jail is NOTHING like it is in the movies. It's crazy. 
I had documents prepared for signatures (thinking I could drop off and pick up another day?) NOPE.
Me: Okay, how about I make an appointment (24 hours in advance) so I can sit down and go over everything with my client and catch signatures? (You know? You see that on TV all the time.)
Jail lady: NOPE. You have to MAIL in any real estate documents and they have to be MAILED back.
(Seriously? The mail?)
However I can drop off a Power Of Attorney - but I need to exit this building and go to another and drop it off with administration.
So now I'm at administration.
Jail guy: Yes, you can leave the POA - you can pick it up Tuesday morning.
Me: Great! (It's at least something? Not everything but something.) Can I leave these other real estate documents? (Hoping his answer would be different from my first answer.)
Jail Guy: No. You have to mail them. (Yeah. I sort of knew this but didn't think it would hurt to ask again?)
Me: How about this letter of explanation or my business card?
Jail Guy: No.
Me: Can I leave my phone number?
Jail Guy: Doesn't your client have it?
Me: Uh? I'm sure she does in her cell phone but since I'm pretty sure she can't use her cell phone......
Jail Guy: Well? (Obviously disgruntled) You can write it on this sticky note.
Me: (Now super nervous about all these rules) Can I put my name on the sticky note?
Jail Guy: She doesn't know your name?
Me: Yes, she knows my name but she's not going to know who this phone number belongs to!
Jail Guy: Well, I guess.... just this once.
Me: When I mail these real estate documents I'll include a return envelope and postage?
Jail Guy: No. Postage is not allowed.
Me: Well? How will she return them?
Jail Guy: She'll need to have money in her account.
Me: Can I just pick them up in person then?
Jail Guy: No.
Me: Okay. Thank you......
Geez. So many rules and I'm sure they are all for a good purpose but it's sure making my job hard!
I had brought James with me and he told me I can add "incarcerated real estate specialist" to my resume after this!
At dinner tonight I told my kids.....you think I have a lot of rules? You better never go to JAIL!!

April 2nd:If we could all pause and take a moment? I have just deep cleaned my kitchen. At this very moment EVERY TUPPERWARE/PLASTIC STORAGE CONTAINER has a proper lid!! And every odd lid and lidless bottom is gone! (And a lot of other crazy junk that I found!) Glory be!!

April 18th: We got to take this birthday boy to lunch today! (Austin) 20 years ago this 9 pound 6 ounce child entered our lives and things have never been the same! Love youAustin Richhart you are an amazing, handsome, funny and terribly witty young man! I'm so happy you're mine! — with James Richhart and Austin Richhart atMi Rancherito Mexican Restaurant.

May 3rd: Oh, give me (and more importantly my Rylee Richhart) strength to get through this day! She's dancing in SIX recitals, six times a show! Opener, Tap, Ballet, Jazz, Pointe, Finale!! 
She needs strength and stamina - I on the other hand need a padded seat and ibuprofen! Lots of sitting!!

May 11th: I think it's sweet that so many people are posting Happy Birth Mothers Day messages to the birth mothers of their children. I too am grateful to a woman I've never met that gave life to my son. 
I wish I could be more grateful for the upbringing she gave him - but I can't. When he first arrived home, he saw a woman that looked like her in a store and he was deathly afraid. He's not afraid of her any longer but he's angry. We don't talk much about her but over a year ago (back when I had flight benefits and we were scheming and dreaming about delivering his Eagle Project to Ukraine) I mentioned that while there, we could go visit his half brother and maybe....see his birth mom? He told me in no uncertain terms that seeing his birth mom would NOT be happening. He got very defensive and told me, "I will never let her touch you!". I tried to joke about how I'm sure I could "hold my own" (she's quite a bit older than me and apparently an alcoholic?) and he didn't find it amusing at all. There was no joking about it. It wasn't funny and he wasn't going to let her "hurt" me.
So thank you Anna. Thank you for this beautiful man/child that loves me so fiercely. He is blossoming and healing and a joy to our family. He will one day be a fabulous husband and father - he's already a great son and brother. I am so grateful to you for giving my son life and so happy that he's mine but in the same breath, I am so sorry for you. You don't know what you're missing....
~Alex's mom
PS (We probably better not plan to meet anytime soon. For your safety. I, on the other hand feel perfectly protected.)

May 16th: Do you know what I'll look forward to over the summer? NOT GETTING CALLS FROM THE MURRAY SCHOOL DISTRICT INFORMING ME THAT MY CHILD WAS MARKED ABSENT OR TARDY FOR ONE OR MORE CLASS PERIODS! 
That is all.....oh, and making sack lunches! Looking forward to not doing that for a few months too!

June 14th:I don't know who was prouder. me or Alex (@rich_of_arts )? Honor roll! First. Time. Ever. 
This from a boy that told me (through tears and a translator at the tender age of 10) that he couldn't be adopted, he couldn't live with us and be our son because he could "never" learn English!
Look how far you've come love! Pretty sure I'm prouder. He might be happier but hands down....I'm prouder! #parentpayday #proudmama #thatsmyboy

July 1st: Oh.My. Goodness! Alex passed his road test now we just have to wait 27 more days until his birthday and he'll be on the road WITHOUT HIS MOTHER riding shot gun! Gulp. As happy as I am to let him drive himself to polo practice and work - he just doesn't seem big enough? (I know he's taller than me - that's not what I mean!) I mean he's only been home for five years - how would you feel if your five year old was driving!? #adoptiveparentproblems

July 17th : I think there should be some sort of chant/cheer for incredible mom plays. For instance today my super fine tuned mama ears heard a tiny clink as I was putting laundry in the washer. "What was that?" my mama spidy senses quivered?" Alas! It was a CHAP-STICK in the pocket of a certain young mans gym shorts! CHAP-STICK! You know - like the kind that makes it through the wash but then melts and makes greasy marks all over the clothes in the dryer! (Despite the many lectures about checking pockets and even months of self laundering upon ruining your sisters clothing!) Upon finding it - and dancing my own little jig - I told my kids I deserved a touch down/home run/score type of dance from them? They just shrugged and I think someone mumbled "Good job?" Oy! We need new cheering requirements for this "MOM" sport! — feeling under applauded!

July 30th: Oh. My. Stars. My heart is finally beating at normal speed. You know that moment, late at night, when you're jolted awake by the specific ring you've assigned to only your children? The many thoughts that swirl through your mind of "What is wrong? What happened? Who is dead?" Your heart races as your intently listen to the news on the other end? Yeah. Those few moments before you finally comprehend that your baby girl is telling you it's official and just now posted....she's a Licensed Practical Nurse!!! Yep. I just had that moment! Congrats Cameron-Kambree Wright!!! You did it sweetheart! And now that my heart rhythm has returned to normal, I'm posting it on Facebook because it's too late to call and tell anyone else!! She did it!! (And for the record. I always knew she would!)  — feeling proud.

August 9th: This morning Alex got home and immediately Rylee asked him, "Will you drive me to Sally's?" (She's been bugging me to take her to the store to get new nail polish!) 
X: Sure. I have nothing else to do. 
He asked me where Sally's was and I told him by Walmart. He happily grabbed his keys and they were off. (The perks of having an older brother with a brand new drivers license!) 
Upon returning Rylee came in laughing! "Mom, Alex thought Sally's was my friends house - not Sally's Beauty Supply!" He thought he was just dropping her off at a friends!? He earned brother points this morning standing (albeit a bit disgruntled) in the beauty supply store while she picked out nail polish!

August 12th: Everyone needs a mom that thinks they're incredible (or at least a professional athlete?). As many of you know, I like to cycle. Apparently I like to cycle so much it made my mom think this, "Wendy, I am surprised I didn't see you in the Tour Of Utah." Awe thanks mom! (The Tour is for professional cyclists - like the ones that ride in the Tour De France.) 

August 12th: One of the joys of teens? Having them stick songs of their choice in your play list? Pretty sure I NEVER put this song in there on my own?? Now the question?? Who's the mom music prankster? I'm leaning towards X since he's the Crazy Frog fan......but anyone could have done it knowing that I would just LOVE it so much.

August 13th: Alex had many reasons to look forward to turning 16 - but the one I least relate to is "Now, I can go to the junkyard!" (Who knew you had to be 16 to actually go on site? Not me.) So, it was no surprise when he asked me where the nearest junkyard was today. I told him that I hope he's not disappointed in me, but I have never been to a junkyard. (He uses me as his own personal Goggle - all the time - but in this regards, I was no help.) We used the real Goggle site and found the nearest auto wrecking yard and that's where he is right now. He's probably in 7th Heaven? Looking for a spoiler for The Smurf (his hand painted, bright blue 1999 Mitsubishi Mirage). I just hope he doesn't spend more on assessors/junk parts than the car is worth! #that'smyboy

August 14th :Gah! Note to self: Self? Why did you think moving Devree to college and then going directly camping was a good idea? Did you realize you'd have to not only pack up a girl with a bazillion items of clothing and accessories - let alone housewares - BUT plan, buy, cook, and pack for a trip??? Oy. What were you thinking? 
I feel like I'm forgetting so many things.....Oh. Well. I have my bike bungee-ed to the bunk beds, my shoes and helmet packed. Whatever else we will do without!
Now it's off to Snow.....to move this girlie in to her apartment (gulp). I think I'll take Excedrin right now.....between the moving and the tears - I'll probably need it!


August 20th: As sad as I am to go back to our routine of school, dance, water polo, homework and getting everyone up, making lunches and out the door for school ~ I'm a little excited to have everyone in bed with lights out at 10 pm! Or at least the expectation/hope that it may happen? I've had NO hope for the past almost three months - I am ALWAYS listening for someone to get home or just get into their dang-blasted bed! (Wish I was a little deeper sleeper? But for the last 22 years I've been programmed to listen for every sneeze, cough and creak!)


August 27th :Last week she made a homemade Southern Caramel Cake - Austin's favorite so far. Sunday she made a homemade Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Tonight she's attempting an Andes Mint Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Gauche for her friends birthday Friday. Her complaint? We don't have THREE 8 inch cake pans - just 2. We have three 9 inch pans so I told her to use the 9 and we'd just adjust the cooking time? Her face wasn't thrilled. I asked her "Why didn't you tell me we needed another 8" I could have grabbed one at the DI today?" She looks aghast "I don't want to use USED pans!" as she lines up my 24 year old cake pans on the counter!

Aug 29th: Welcome to my life? Little dog lays on top of the covers pinning me in bed. Once I lift her up and over to empty side of our king sized bed, I have to jump over the big dog on the floor! #imsoprotected #thedogsloveme#hardtogettothebathroom

Sept 2nd: I know I'm a mean mom but a contract is a contract! (Yes, not just a mean mom but a real estate agent with a firm conviction of the power of a contract!) When you sign a contract that states you will not use your new smart phone in church (except for scriptures and hymns) and you're caught Snap-chatting a girl over 15 times during your meetings? You're going to pay the consequences.
However, it certainly helps my resolve to be a "mean" mom when you see awesome Instagram posts like this one.
Score one for being a mean mom! Love this boy! 💕

Sept 4th: New school pictures (@rich_of_arts ) and an important announcement..My apologies to any of my Snapchat followers, it was not my armpit that was sent out last night but a certain 16 year olds seen here in this post. Sorry about the confusion/grossness. #pranksterson #momscanhijackphonestoo

Sept 5th:I have wood stairs. I have two dogs. A big one the clomps up and down the stairs like a troll through the day and night. And a little one that is terrified of the stairs because her super fast speed has caused her to fall down the stairs a few times so now she goes up but refuses to go down. She just sits at the top of the stairs and barks for someone to come carry her (princess self) down. It is for these two reasons I'm in need of a carpet stair runner. Suggestions where to get one?

Sept 7th: I know. Why a picture of my dirty dishes this beautiful Sunday morning? Because it was empty last night and this is how many glasses I loaded this morning after both Alex & Ry brought friends home from the seminary social. (Which sounds like a complaint but I actually love that they bring their cute friends home. I always wanted to be the "kool-aid house", I just realize we'd be the Costco size "kool-aid" house!) #teensaregreat#buttheycouldworkontheirdishwasherloadingskills

Sept 7th: Nine months ago we sent off his Eagle project to Ukraine and tonight he finally had his board review! It's official.....he's now an Eagle Scout! Congrats Alex! #eaglescout #soproud #whew!

Sept 8th: Part of X's prayer this morning: 
"And please bless that mom will have a good time here at home, alone, with no friends." 
Ha!!

Sept 8th: Tonight's conversation:
So my nephew Rhett was commenting on how he wished he'd been born in a barn so he could leave all the doors open. (Stemming from the saying "Shut the door! You weren't born in a barn!") James had to chime in with "Well, Jesus was born in a barn." To which Rylee quipped, "That's why when one door closes, God always leaves another door open."