Christmas

Christmas has come and gone. It was a great Christmas! I am so grateful for family and for the things we do together. (Some day I might even try my mom’s trifle that she makes every year) We have started our own family traditions with Maggie and I am so grateful for Natalie as she spearheads that. Lights at the mall, wearing new PJs Christmas eve and a few more.
I am so glad the snows hit when they did and we avoided any trouble. I am also glad for a light weight snow shovel. We got several storms and I was glad it was the light powder and not the heavy back breaking wet stuff.
Now I look forward to a new year but not before I reflect back on all that has happened this past year. But I do not have time right now to expound on that.

More Much Watch Christmas Movies

My first post on this was back in Oct. I have more to say:
Home Alone
The Santa Clause (Tim Allen. the first not 2 or 3)
Christmas Carol (with George C Scott or Captain Picard)
Love Actually
Santa Baby
Meet the Santa's

One movie with Kelsey Grammer playing Santa Jr but I don't remember the name
Wish I could find that one on TV again

I am grateful For feel good movies set at Christmas

I never want to grow up (Sometimes)

Last year for my birthday my brother got me a desk missile launcher. I had a a ball all year with it. I had it at work for awhile but had to bring it home.

This year he once more surprised me with a small remote controlled helicopter. While it does not do a lot of tricks etc it is a ball to play with none the less. Maggie loves watching it and the dog just buries her head.

Randy and I have decided that we can combine both presents and have two people play. One to fly the copter the other trying to shoot it down with the missiles.

Oh I can hardly wait till next year to see what I can add to my arsenal.

Traffic Cameras

Today’s drive to work was a small mess. I am grateful for traffic cameras on the internet. I often will look to see what the roads look like between work and home so I can adjust my leaving time.
My ops manager lives in Layton so he has a longer drive than myself. This morning it took him 2.5 hours to get to work . We looked at the cameras and he left early for home so he could be there in time to pick up his daughter.
Modern day is sweet in a lot of ways….

Older siblings

The other day Maggie was so tired and all Randy had to do was look at her and she would start laughing.

I am so grateful that my children all get along. We were together last night at my mothers house to celebrate birthdays and the whole family got along.

Maggie is so lucky to have older siblings that not only look out for her but love and adore her unconditionally (yes Josh I count you in that group too!)

Deodorant-

I have never known a time in my life where deodorant was not available. I do appreciate this invention…you know what I am talking about if you ever have hung around a teen boy who has not yet discovered the reason, no, I should say the need, to use it.
As times get tougher, lets hope people do not decide to stop buying this needed item as a way to save money.

A good (and easy) Shoe Shine

I don’t remember where I herd it, but someone once said, “Next to a great smile and firm handshake, and great shine on your shoes is the best first impression.” When I was on my mission we used to shine the shoes by scrubbing the shoes, rubbing in the paste, let it dry, rub the excess off and then buff and shine like crazy with a nylon.
A few days ago I had to shine my shoes and it was a simple rub with the applicator and let dry for a minute and presto…nice black shine.
I can honestly say that I do not miss the old way of doing things.

Garbage Pick up

Our day for garbage pick up is Mondays. Today I noticed a truck coming into the subdivision and I thought how grateful I was that we had them.
Even though we are not part of the “city” and need to pay a private company to do the pick up, I am still grateful.
If you think of the alterative, you would have to bag up the trash and somehow get it out to the landfill and then unload it. Between food smells and some of the diapers I think…well, let’s not think about that thought.

Great Neighbor Youth

Yesterday as I was driving home I noticed that the closer I got on my 20+ mile drive the more the snow was sticking to the sidewalks. Soon I knew I had to look forward to shoveling my walks.
As I turned on our street I noticed more driveways than usual shoveled. As I pulled up to the house, lo and behold mine were shoveled!!! I was so excited, then I wondered who did them? Nat has done them before but I knew she was busy with the baby all afternoon and Randall was at school.
When I went int he house I asked and Natalie told me that 2 of the neighbor boys (well, one is 18 and the other 15) had stopped by and just shoveled. She told them they did not have to but they just laughed at her and went on shoveling. When they were done with my driveway they went next door and started there.
These two young men are the best in the world. I admire them so much and am grateful to them for my walks but also for just knowing them. Thanks Matt and Mark you guys rock!

Several thoughts

I have not posted for a while since work has been crazy. (Once I get home any spare time I had was spent on “City of Heroes” (they came out with a new game update).
But this does not mean that I am not grateful.
First: I had a birthday so I am grateful I made it yet another year.

Second: My wife made me the best apple pie for my birthday (I do not care for cake too much)

Third: I have great kids and love them all. Also my family is great (and Nats) Last Friday the Bradfords went to the Electric light parade and we had a ball. Maggie got alot of taffy that was thrown. (She wont eat it but Natalie loves the stuff)

Fourth: I have a job that allows Nat to be a stay at home mom. (Last week a guy called into work crying since he did not know how he was going to get his latest Expense report processed since his boss and himself had just been laid off. 200 people on that round ooowww)

And last but not least: It looks like it is snowing in the mountains but only raining in the valley which I really appreciate!

What a day

So today is one for deep thinking and looking back etc. (It is also one for feeling old and proud of how far I've come)
It's my birthday and I am so grateful to be here....
Of course I do not feel or look as old as I really am. Sometimes it's hard to remember how old I am (guess that could be a sign of old age...)
Anyway, today I am grateful for my life and all that are in it.

Burps (reprint form 2007)

I wrote the following back in 2007 when I first started this blog. It still holds true. More so now as I see the need of the baby to burp, well at least when she was younger. Now her burps are just plain funny.

I must admit that I am grateful for burps. Not listening to others burp or even myself, but sometimes the relief that comes after a good burp is like nothing else. I also am glad that burps happen cuz if they did not everything would get out another way and that could be bad (if you know what I mean)

Playing with my child

Yesterday Nat was trying to rest so I took Maggie into her room and we read a few books, then played with some of her toys. I saw a Jenga game we had there so got it out and started to build a tower. Maggie watched and tired to knock it over. I would put a piece on and say “Wait…” then she would wait till the next piece and I would say “Wait..” once I got it 4-5 high she would look at me and I would say “OK” at which time she would smash it and laugh.

I am so happy to come home to a wonderful wife and daughter. We are very blessed to be able to have Natalie be a stay at home mom with Maggie. True we go without some items but do not seem to miss them. (whatever they are)

We also went to see the lights turned on at a local shopping mall. (see Natalies blog for more details)

Life is good and Christmas time makes it that much better!!!.

Early Christmas Lights

I got the lights on the outside of the house put up last Saturday. We will not turn them on till tomorrow night. but it is nice to have them up.
Our neighbors have already turned on theirs as well as their tree...that is nice. I love the look and feel of Christmas and am grateful to others that feel the same.

Turbo Crawling

It is a great feeling to know that when I come home from work each day that certain things will happen.

The dog will always come to greet me at the door.

If Maggie is awake I hear Natalie say, "It's daddy" and then I hear her crawling as fast as she can to come whipping around the corner of the kitchen. She then stops and looks up, sees it is me, puts her head down and kicks in the turbo crawl to come be picked up.

I am so grateful for a stay at home mother for her. It's not as easy as when we had 2 full time incomes in the house, but the sacrifice is well worth it.

I am a very lucky guy to have both Natalie and Maggie (as well as my other kids) I do not know what I did to deserve them but am happy I have them.

Barry...

Tonight at the gym I listened through my Barry Manilow songs...not all 105 I have on my ipod but 4 miles worth.

Sometimes I just enjoy this kind of music.

The Muppet Show!

This past weekend I had gotten from the library, the Muppets Christmas Story DVD. I had it on at home, on my laptop, and Maggie went nuts for Kermit. She tired to get into the screen! So yesterday I picked up 2 of the seasons of the Muppet Show from the library( I love that place) and Maggie and I watched several episodes last night. She gets excited whenever Kermit, Scooter or Fozzie are on screen.
As I looked through the list of guest stars I really forget how big this show was in the mid 70’s. Best part is that it is still funny today.
I loved sitting on the couch, with Maggie in my lap holding my hands, (If I don’t clap when the show does she makes me)
Good TV is not what it used to be

Gas drops again!

Not even a month ago I typed that I was Thankful that gas had finally hit below $3 a gallon.
Well this last week the price dipped below $2 and I am very happy. I drive almost 50 miles round trip for work so any savings are appreciated. I wonder now why nothing else has really dropped. They said prices on everything went up due to the cost of gas. Now gas is cheaper should not the grocery prices drop and the other charges?

Potatoes

Last night Nat made the best cheese and potato soup, which got me thinking, how great are potatoes!
You can leave them hole, mash em, cut them in strips, dice em.
They can be fried, baked, boiled, steamed.
Eating whole, in soup, as fries, mashed up, etc

Plus they taste great.
So today I am grateful for potatoes! (Thank you Idaho)

November

November is National Adoption month as well as Thanksgiving and Shopping. November also means that more people are listening to Christmas Music. (remember I have been doing it since first Monday in Oct.)
Nov is also that much closer to my birthday. I have advised Nat that I am not having a birthday this year so...(too old)
I also love the rain that comes as the snow hits the mountains...it wont last for long but is nice while it lasts.

Orange you glad for adoption

Saturday was the 3rd annual Walk with me in adoption 5k. We were there 3 years ago at the start and will be there 3 years from now. The main force behind it came up with the orange saying 3 years ago. (I think she found a great deal on orange shirts) I have given her a lot of crap about the saying but this year I finally joined in the wearing of the orange. Of course it is my Halloween costume as well, think candy corn,)

So Yes I am glad for adoption and for the 150+ people who were there for the walk as well

Pizza

The most perfect meal of all time has to be Pizza! It can contain all of the needed food groups.
It reheats well and even tastes good cold.
Most everyone will like to some level.
Now I am hungry...later

Great Nation

I am so grateful all the political ads are done..also that we could have a change of power started and decided on yet have it happen so peaceably.
Now all we will hear is how historic this time of our nation is. (yes it is but I will get tired of hearing it.)

Voting

Even though I know my vote on the major races was canceled out by another family members vote...I am grateful for the chance to vote.

Some of my family and friends choose not to vote and that is OK as well. That is what makes this country great, the ability of each person do vote or not. I must admit that those that choose not to vote are also the ones that will not complain on government as well, which is how it should be.

Last days of the election

Last days of campaigning are finally here. I am so grateful that the ads and talk and everything will be over tomorrow.
Don't get me wrong, I am happy for the chance to vote etc but it seems that this voting season has gone on too long...

Treat and Sweet

I do not really enjoy Halloween. I used to love making the kids costumes and seeing them excited.
However…Natalie made the cutest costume for Maggie and was so excited about it I started to enjoy Halloween again.
I am so grateful to see the holidays through Maggie’s eyes.
She loved the attention she got from all the oooos and aaahhhs as people saw her.
Now comes the best time of the year. (and Snow)

small things

It has been a few days since I have posted. It does not mean that I am not grateful everyday for even the smallest of things.
Life gets busy,(even if it is playing with Maggie, and video games) yet life is also great.
To have a job, a home a loving family is truly something to be grateful for and I have the best wife around and the cutest baby as well.

Monday night TV

I have to admit that I was really looking forward to TV tonight. Last years Big Bang Theory at Halloween was one of the best shows. I have also loved How I met your Mother at Halloween. But alas, tonight they were reruns...I have no idea why but they were ones I had already seen.




(So I guess I should be grateful that the ones they showed were funny at least)

Gas under $3 a gallon!!!!

This morning I filled up Nat’s Jeep costing a grand total of $55. Gas was $2.97 a gallon. Finally below 3 bucks! Usually I would fill up and it would cost me 75 to 80 bucks.
I am grateful gas is lower now.

Shuffle of Music

Long ago and in a time where modern tech was touch tone phones, people were limited in their choice of listening to music. You would put in a tape and listen from start to finish the album you put in. Then came discs and you could bounce around on the disc. Then you made your own disc of songs you liked. Then came a large deck you mounted in your trunk where you placed 4-10 discs in and could hear them. Wow times have sure changed.
Today I can hit shuffle songs on my ipod and listen to a random list of song order from my 2000+ songs on a machine smaller than a deck of cards.
I also can go song by song on a album for old time sakes, (or if listening to a book, shuffle is horrible on a book cd)
I am grateful to be able to listen like this now.

Maggie laugh updated

Several months ago I posted a video of Maggie's first laugh. I mention how great it made me feel after a long day.
Well, Friday night I had a long day at work and out with the family. Maggie was tired and a little slap happy but her laugh made my whole week.

Must Watch Christmas Movies!

Today, while going over Profit and Lose statements and comparing the numbers to forecasted budget I watched/listened, to my first Christmas movie of the season. (Yes I know I am early but I don’t care.)
I put in Celtic Woman Christmas and followed it by Michael McLean’s Forgotten Carols. I wanted to watch White Christmas but forgot to put it in my bag.
While these two are not really movies per say I wondered…what must watch Christmas Movies do people have.
Following is my list. (I am grateful that I can have movies readily available to watch as I work, or not work)

1. White Christmas. (I will watch this at least twice before Jan.)
2. TSO’s Ghost of Christmas
3. Forgotten Carols. (At least twice)
4. Die Hard. (It is set at Christmas)
5. Christmas Story (such memories of childhood)
6. Scrooged (Bill Murry Rocks)
I have more but want to see what others will submit

Headphones

I remember back in the day(when I packed a cassette player that was 6 inches wide by 10 inches long) when headphones were the large airtraffic controler type. They also had the large plug and when you wanted to go smaller you had to go to Radio Shack and get an adapter.

No days there are so many types to chose from and styles and cost etc.

I use my $9.00 specials everyday, at the office, in the car, in the store at home and they work pretty well. I do end up going through about 2-3 pair a year since it seems that one side always gives out if handled too rough.

But all in all I am grateful for some that will fit my easr and stay on.

Indoor Plumbing!

I know I posted this sometime last year but it still is true!


Last night, around 2 am I awoke to the need of visiting the bathroom. This is a regular occurrence. (Guess if it wasn’t regular I wouldn’t be regular. Ha ha ,I know its dumb).
Well, it has been extremely cold here lately. Colder than usual it seems. So as I was sitting there thinking on things, I came to the conclusion that I am very grateful for indoor plumbing. The thought of having to trek out to a building outside of the warm house just isn’t pleasing. Not only does it make taking care of your business more comfortable but think of washing dishes, taking a bath or shower, shaving. Indoor plumbing is defiantly something I am grateful for. (Not to mention toilet paper, soap, toothpaste mouth wash and other bathroom type items)

A spiritual hug

I received an email from a friend a while ago, that contained a link to a site about a "Reflections of Christ " Photo show/exhibit. The video has been shown at several open houses for Temple dedications.
I am grateful for my "Boston Friend" for sending this. I have it also on my iPod and will often play it when I am a bit down or just need a spiritual hug.

(Also check out Natalie's current blog for the most, cutest,adorable pics of the most beautiful baby in the world! I promise you will smile)

Another BBC Hit

I have to admit that I am grateful for the BBC. Some of my favorite programs have started there.
Yesterday I was looking for the latest rumors about BBC’s Robin Hood and came across a post saying how great the show that is in the time slot that was Robin Hood is. The show is called Merlin. About young Merlin and Arthur…I then went to You Tube and found the 3 episodes that have aired in the UK. (They were in 8 minutes segments but still there.)
This show, so far I have only watched 1 episode, is great!

So add it to the list of Robin Hood, Doctor Who, Primeval and the BBC is still putting out hits

The Bishop was kidnapped!

Last night I was part of the Ward’s Youth activity night. “Who kidnapped the Bishop?” It was a mystery dinner type thing. I was Bro Adams a avid golfer who was one of the suspects. Basically there were 10 suspects in 10 different rooms with 1o different weapons that could have been used. We were introduced to the youth then sent to our rooms. As the groups of youth came through the room they had to roll dice and a clue associated with the numbers rolled was given. I mentioned about halfway through as one group was leaving that I hoped I wasn’t the one that did it. One of our newest youth, a 12 year old deacon, herd me and after the group left he poked his head through the door and said. “Don’t worry it wasn’t you we have you marked off.” He then smiled and ran to catch up with his team. I cracked up! He was so serious and sincere. I miss working with the youth at times. I am grateful that they (or their leaders) thought enough to invite me to be part of this.

First Monday in October

Across the nation the first Monday in October is the start of the supreme court year. (It was also a movie title)
For me it is the start of something else. The fall season is just kicking off so I allow myself to start to listen to Christmas music! Yep I don’t care what people think I start now. I love it! So yesterday I took the time to move all my Christmas music over to my iPod. Today while driving into work I skipped my usual Radio from Hell show and put the ipod on shuffle and sang along as I drove.
I am so excited about the holidays this year…

Windshield Wipers

I love this time of year! Yesterday we had our first fall rainstorm. The kind that carries with it a brisk coldness. It usually starts first of Oct then continues until snow comes. As we were driving yesterday and the rain was not steady but poured down then let up then poured down. I was grateful for good windshield wipers. Think about it…how would you drive without them. I have had to do that twice in my life. Once on my mission in Australia the guy we were riding with had no wipers. As the rain started to come he rolled down the window and stuck his head out to see, (without slowly down at all I might add.) My fears were soon forgotten on wipers when I noticed that under his mat in the back seat there was a huge hole that the water started rising through.
The next time I was in my tin can of a car, the Geo Metro. (I always thought there was more metal in a pop can than on that car.) The wiper didn’t really stop working…when a heavy rain came up I turned on the wipers and after a few minutes on high, was shocked to see the drivers side wiper go flying off the wiper arm! I could not see…so I rolled down the side window and stuck my head out…I always knew that kid was dumber than dirt…that did not work, I simple pulled over and waited.
So I am glad for wipers! (As well as the rain)

Exercise again

Last night I went to the gym for the first time in a long time. (Of course how could I have gone with a brace on my arm...right?)
I started walking around the track pushing Maggie in her stroller. I started to hear a weird clinking sound. As I turned to check the stroller an older gentleman walked by passing me. The clicking came from the oxygen tank he was pulling! Wow I must really be out of shape...thank goodness my wife is behind pushing me to get back to the gym.

Medicine

So I am now typing with both hands without the use of my brace. The Doctor says I am healing well and it is time to start to use it more.

Of course I am going to have use the brace when I do heavy stuff etc.

I am grateful for modern medicine. I am even happy to say I look part terminator in the x-ray.

Wow, it is neat yet freaky looking.

Simple

So I went to the dentist yesterday to fix a chipped filling. It turned into a root canal…so today I am grateful that it stopped hurting and that I can chew food. Simple as that

Power outage

So today at work the power went out. I was in the bathroom so it was pitch black. After a few moments the generators kicked in and the lights came on. I am grateful for that. Also very glad that I work off a laptop so when the power goes out the machines still stays up and I don’t loose anything.
As part of my job, my team prints 1500 or so checks every day. We put the printers on a battery back up so when the power goes out the print jobs do not restart.
Wow modern day is so nice sometimes.

Tooth Ache

So I have a tooth ache. Need to go to the dentist…(Monday) so today I am grateful for that. To think how bad my life would be without dental work. Whatever did people do?
I don’t enjoy the dentist, and I don’t enjoy the expense but the alternative is way worse.

Her point of view

So for the last couple of days I have been amazed at how Maggie is just so happy to crawl into the most unusual places. Her favorite place seems to be under the table. I decided to find out tonight by crawling around after her. Seeing things from her point of view. It was great!
For one thing I can honestly say our carpets were a good choice, they make it easy to crawl. As I got under the table I instantly thought how cool it was. Like a fort or clubhouse, or I guess for a little girl a castle. Maggie turn toward me as we were under there and stared to play around me. She looked at me with that smile that said, "now do you see why this is fun..."
I am grateful that I can still see things with the point of view of a 7 month old.

Must Watch TV

Monday night has now become the must stay home and watch TV night for us.
I am grateful for good TV again. Big Bang Theory, How I met your mother and Heroes occupy my Monday nights.
Big Bang makes me laugh since I can relate to so much of it I guess. How I met your mother, was billed at the start as the new Friends, well it is and I enjoy it.
Heroes…well enough said, you either hate or love this show. Last night the room was filled with a lot of “ooh wow’ and “Now way!”
Now I just have to wait for 24 and BBC to release the next season of Robin Hood.

Rain

So today has started to be one of those days. I sat and thought what can I say I am grateful for...nothing came and I know this was wrong. So I thought more and I can honestly say I am glad it rained today. (Not sure if it still is but it was going good this morning).
I do not have to water my lawns or garden
I do not have to mow my lawn tonight
Or mow my mothers lawn (I would have Randy mow one of them)

And it clears the air of all the crude in it.
So I am grateful today for the rain!

Modern Memories

So it has been a week since we were in Disneyland. I am grateful for the chance to have immediate photos and videos. I remember way back when, we used to go on vacation and we would forget to take the movies in to be developed or didn’t have the money so it was a surprise when they final did get done.
But now we can look at the photos and video as soon as they are done. (I guess I miss the surprise in some ways) But I am grateful that we can share with others so quickly.
It was such a great trip and even though Maggie will not remember it I sure will.
I also have to be grateful that my wife is such a Disneyland nut to allow me to be as well.

Fabreeze

Since I have had to wear this stupid brace on my arm I am grateful for a few things.
At least I can take it off to shower or to rest my arm from it.
One problem has been that it does get a bit sweaty. That’s why I am grateful for fabreeze.
It helps with the sweaty smell.

New book from Terry Brooks

I am very grateful that I was able to get the newest and latest book from Terry Brooks.

I am finding a new exicting book to read harder thanI thought. This is just in time. Of course I will be finished by the weekend and then the search is on for the next good read.

Family Vacation

We spent last week in Disneyland and had a ball!
I am grateful for a safe trip…seeing my daughter smile and get excited at seeing characters…my wife crying at the parade…the feeling of joy that just is in the air there.
Once we finish editing the pictures I will put them in a album.
Maggie was great!

Family!

Today we had Maggie’s blessing at church. It was so special to see all the family be there to support us. Our great birth mom and her dad and step mom came as well. I am so grateful for family!
With my arm being in a brace I have not been much help around here and we had a lot to do to get ready for today. Thank heavens for the kids in helping out. Laurie Jo had the most fun job of watching Maggie so Natalie could get stuff done in the kitchen.
In the morning we head to Disneyland which will be great. I am taking my laptop just in case I need to respond for work but also to upload pictures from the camera since we take a lot and fill up cards fast.
Again I am so grateful today for a super birth mother which made us having Maggie possible and for my kids being so willing to help their crippled old man of a father!

Email

If you are old enough try to remember a time without email.
Try to remember how you did your business without email.
Technology is great ands without I really don’t know where my life would be. I hate the spam emails I get as well as the good intended people who pass on the most stupid things.(I must be really cursed from all the chain type things I never respond too.)
However I must admit I am grateful for email. Not only since I have to daily talk to people in NJ, Mexico, India and Dallas, but also so I can touch base with my family.

Look Ma...one and 1 half hands!!!

Ok so today I went to the ortho specialist and got my stitches out. Boy the scar is long and ugly!
I am now in a brace for the next 4 weeks then we will see about therapy etc.
I am grateful that I can now sort of type like normal...one and a half hands worth.
Guess this means I will have to help more on the yard work to get ready for the family all coming over on Sunday...oh wait I think my wrist is hurting....

Forever is GREAT!!!

11 years ago on Sept 2 Natalie and I were married in the Salt Lake Temple. One of the basic beliefs of our faith is that families can be together forever. When a couple is married in the temple any children they have naturally are automatically “sealed” to them. They are covered by the covenant of the marriage they were born into.
When a couple adopts, once the adoption is final they can take the child to the temple and be “sealed” so the child has the blessing of forever family just as if they had been born to the couple.
Today, on our wedding anniversary we had Maggie sealed to us. What a great way to celebrate our anniversary. Now Sept 2 is our family anniversary.
I am so grateful fir the chance to have Maggie in our life and to know that she is part of our family for the eternities.
For that I am truly and humbly grateful!

Power

Last night the power went out for a few hours. Grateful that it was only a few. Some had it out all night.
It reminded me how grateful I am for power. Randall watched a movie on his ipod. Nat read Maggie took a nap and I watch my ipod as well. Soon Maggie woke up the ipod movies were done and Nat and Maggie came in on the bed where I was. Then Randall came in and we laid on the bed playing with Maggie. Not 2 minutes went by and the power came on. I almost didn’t say I saw the light on it was nice just all sitting there.
For that I am grateful.

Update

So it has been a few days since I have written. I had surgery on Tuesday and it went well. I now have a metal plate screwed in my wrist. I am grateful that it went well and that I do not have a hard cast on my arm. Recovery is going well and I am grateful for that too.
Natalie has been a big help and I just adore her.
So I still am typing one handed but it seems to be working well.

hard to be grateful....keep looking

Ok so I am trying to sit on the couch and type one handed. It seems to be working ok…well..today I am grateful for having my surgery scheduled tomorrow quite early. I am up first thing in the morning and for that I am grateful. Today my arm hurts, my tail bone hurts(really really really hurts), my head hurts, my back is giving me trouble, nothing is on TV, I am sick of sitting on a doughnut and not being able to use my arm and it seems hard to find something to be happy about. Then I came home early from work, saw a smile from my super great wife(I joke that she is doing everything now so seems to be a super hero, my own personal Xena! Boy oh boy ) then Maggie woke up from her nap and she came out in the arms of her mom, saw me and smiled. My life is sooooo coooool.

Velcro rocks!

It has been one week since my battle with the killer wasp.(it sounds better that way). I have discovered that tied shoes are over rated, so are pants that fit snug. (try doing up the snap or button of your pants all one handed)
I have also decided that Velcro is an amazing invention. It should be on everything! Try opening a new box of cereal one handed...

Once more I have to say that I am so grateful for my wife. She has been a big help.

No brain no pain...

So I guess my wrist is worse than I first thought. I will be going in Tues to have a metal plate put in my wrist. I asked the specialist how many breaks I had to which he smiled and said that a better answer would be to tell people I shattered my wrist.
But even with the pain and the trouble I am having I am still grateful.
-I am happy it is my left hand and not the right
-That it is my wrist and not my leg or worse
-I have an extremely supportive wife who I adore
-I guess have a very high tolerance to pain since the dr says I should be screaming

The biggest pain is not being able to help take care of the baby like I would like too.
But I am learning how to type one handed pretty well now

Thoughts on being one handed

I am so grateful to have 2 hands. True one is not working now but that just makes me the more grateful for when it does....I am heading to the specialist to see if I need a pin etc.

yup "I told ya so..."

Well I went to instacare today since my arm is not getting any better. Turns out that I broke my wrist in 3 places. I have to go to the ortho specialist Wed morning.
I am grateful that Nat did not say "I told ya so" since ""I told her we did not have to go to the emergency room Sat night. She also did not get upset when I told her that our sanding the deck with 80 grit sandpaper would make it smooth enough. She already put one coat of stain on it.
She is so great...I totally do not deserve her.
Randy on the other hand could not wait to say I told ya so...Kids.

Feeling useless but not

Ok, so with only one good arm I really feel useless. I always never understood why my dad always wants to help when I go over to do stuff. But now I do. It is hard to even do up my pants up, hold Maggie, do dishes, (thanks Randall for helping out) roll out of bed, etc. Nat had to help me put on my shoes this morning. I am proud to say that I did my own tie today. (I was sitting on the stand for Stake Conference I looked down and noticed that the bottom part of the tie was a lot longer than the front piece. I just tucked it inside my shirt)
But I am grateful that it hurts less today than last night.
I really don't know how tomorrow is going to go but...I will get through it.

Stupid but blessed

Ok so here I sit typing with one hand. Let me explain...we had a large group of wasps who decided to start to build a nest right outside our side door and next to the rain gutter. I got some spray...the foaming kind that should kill instantly and encases the nest.
I went out to spray, the foam look so good as it covered the nest. Then I saw a wasp come flying out of the foam and I thought "Oh crap, it doesn't work" and I started to back petal and tripped falling backward. I hit the cement on my butt and then my wrist.
The good news...I don't think I broke it, but it sure started to and swell up.
So I ran to the hose on the lawn to get cool water on it.(ok I waddled cuz my butt hurts like crazy) I then came in and pulled out the first aid kit and wrapped it up then iced it and rigged a sling.
Tomorrow is Stake Conference so I get to sit on the stand wrapped up. fun oh fun
but I am grateful that I did not break it or worse...crack my butt.

Boring Day at Work

So, today as I sit here at work, not really wanting to be here, I notice that while I have a lot to do that I am bored. It is kind of nice for a change to have things quiet. My client has not called with problems, the phone banks seem very quiet and the team is just plugging along doing invoice after invoice.
No problems or screaming = boring. I am grateful for that. It is giving me a chance to catch up with some items that I have not had the time to dig into.
It also lets me update this blog while here at work.
So here I sit with the old TV show Conan playing in the corner of one monitor while I pour over spread sheets and emails.
Good thing it's Friday!

Legally a Bradford!

This morning as of 8:18 am Maggie became legally ours!. We had our finalization of the adoption this morning and I could not be more grateful. Nothing really has changed, it is just knowing that she is ours. The judge said "I have signed the decree and this adoption is final" (I almost started crying. ok I did cry)
As we were standing there getting pictures with the judge he leaned over to me and said that he was happy for us and has 3 adopted children of his own. I think the only time judges allow pictures in court of them selves and the people that appear before them is during adoptions.
I am also grateful for our lawyer. Being in court is official and very legal type talk but when all is said and done she is ours!

Memories

Today as I drove into work my mind was going over what I might write today for this blog. I really couldn't’t come up with any one thing. But as I thought over things I was reminded of a lot of things I have to be grateful for in my life. My wife, my kids, job, house…everything.
So today I am grateful that I can be grateful.

Project Minded Wife

So I worked from home today in order to take care of our leaking washing machine. It is always nice to have time at home. Natalie decided that this afternoon was the time to start painting the entry way and stair way. Of course I make drips so she did the work. Also today as we walked around every time I blink she was added something new to my to do list. I am grateful for that, since left alone I would not get around to the list that fast.
Also, she is a good painter and I hate to paint.

A baby's laugh

OK , so we went to Nat's parents today and found that Maggie loves to laugh at a certain McDonald's toy.

We have had a busy weekend with an adoption conference and this is just what I needed to hear at the close of a busy weekend. (Maggie spent Thurs night till Sat afternnon at Laurie Jo's and Josh's. Thanks guys)

I am so grateful for my baby's laugh.

Home Cooked Meals

One of the nice things about having Nat be a stay at home mom full time is the dinners I am now getting. I love food and Nat has come up with some really great meals.
I am grateful for her willingness to want to stay home with the baby as well as taking care of me.

Breath Mints

As I get older I seem to have the need of breath mints...well at least I think I need them. The kids often tease me that when I die they will make sure I have a few in my pocket for the viewing. I usually only use them at church. But in thinking about it, how much do we take this simple creation for granted. This is one of the many small things that make our life easier, well, at least better for those that have to talk to me at Church.

Her Puppy

Now that Maggie is almost crawling (she scoots and army man crawls very fast) the dog has taken to hiding under the table or on a chair when she wants to be away from Maggie. However, I am grateful for how much the dog puts up with from our littlest family member. Maggie loves the dog. Camping they even spent time close together as you can see.

Sleeping at Camp

This year at camp Nat and Maggie stayed in a cabin a bit away while the boys and I stayed at camp. Being lazy we decided not to set up the big tent so Cody slept in his car and Randy and I slept in Hammocks he had brought home from the West Indies. I must admit my family (yes everyone) thought we were nuts. This first night was OK, the second better. We draped a trap over each one to help keep in heat and the rain out. Yes it rained a little on the second night. It was awesome to lay there the first night as clear as anything and to look up at the stars. It was so humbling to think about it all. I am grateful for the hammock as well as my sons encouraging me to do it. (of course when I mentioned I might go to the cabin my dad called me chicken so that helped.) Maggie loved the hammock in the afternoon. Of course we didn't leve her there alone but as the wind blew the trees and rocked her she did well.

a tired smile

Tonight I am very tired from a weekend of family camping (more on that in the next few days)

I was looking through my picture files and saw this one...even though I am tired and my muscles hurt it still made me smile. For that I am grateful.

Clothes

Ok so today as I was coming home I noticed some people walking. Granted it was hot out but I do believe they could not be more undressed. Now they were not the type you would see on advertisements…(is that a nice way to say it?)…but it sure made me grateful for clothes and the laws that require us to wear them. It would be scary to have everyone walking around naked!A few years ago I went to Barcelona Spain for work. My hotel was less than a block from the beach so I went down to look around. After a few minutes I thought something looks different, then I noticed a girl approx 18 yr in the beach shower topless, I looked around and saw 80% of the women were dressed the same. When I got back home I told the young men I was teaching about this and they thought it was a great trip. I then told them that right behind her was her 80 yr old grandmother (I assume) and her 40 something mother. Topless as well. I think I scarred them as the images came to their minds and burned in . (hehehehe) sometimes I miss teaching the youth

Shoe Laces

Ok so I have to admit that one of the great unsung heroes of life are shoe laces! If you don’t believe me then take the lace out of one shoe and go the rest of the day…kind of a pain!

Toilet Paper

So I was sitting at work today taking care of some business and looked up to see that the TP dispenser was empty. Fortunately there was a spare roll…thank goodness. So I have to say I am grateful for the simple invention of TP! The alternatives just are not pleasant to think about.(shudder, memories of scout camp come crashing into my brain) (How in the world did the 3 shells work any way in the Stallone movie “Demolition Man” )
I also am grateful for people who keep the restroom clean and stocked…and for toilet paper.

Rediscovering simple things

Yesterday late afternoon I took Maggie outside and lay in the hammock we have on our deck. It was cool temp since a storm was coming in. Maggie loves to be outside. Daily we sit out there and I marvel as I watch her process the trees and leaves, a group of birds that come to our tree often, the quail that live in the hedge and yesterday a few bugs flying around. As we looked up the storm started to come in, she was just amazed at the clouds and the trees moving.
I am so grateful that I can rediscover the simple things of the world through her.

She even seems to love cotton candy as much as Nat does...oh boy two of them hyped up on suger!

Sunday Afternoon Photos

For the last month or so we have started a new tradition with our family...Sunday photo shoot of Maggie. I think it stems from the fact that she looks so cute in her church clothes. It also helps that we need new pictures to send to our wonderful birth mother when we email each Sunday night. Any way...I love the fact that we have so many photos of Maggie. She is only 5 1/2 months old and we have over 3000 shots of her. I am grateful for my wife's talent as well as the great weather we have to do the photos. I am also glad we have such a assume backyard in which to take the pics.

Working/living in safety

I work with people around the world. I have a team that works for me in Juarez Mexico as well as a team in Sandy Utah and a large team in Bangalore India. Today I have to be grateful for my teams as well as being able to live where I do. For the past several months Juarez has been having troubles with drug cartels battling with police etc. In fact a travel warning was issued but I went any way. That trip was weird in that we did not see any cops any where as we drove from the border to the site. This morning I got notice that 7 bombs went off in India. All my people are ok but a bit shook up. This makes me very grateful to live in Utah and work where I do.

My own "Sacred Grove"

A good definition for a “sacred grove” is basically the place where the Lord can communicate with you.
I am grateful that I have such a spot. It is not out in the woods, it usually isn’t quiet and it defiantly isn’t still and peaceful all the time but it works for me.
Years ago when the boys were younger and I had to drive to pick them up every other weekend I had 30 minutes in the car alone as I went to get them or on returning from dropping them off at their mom’s. This started my own scared grove. I loved the time I had with the boys as we drove. Often on my way home after a wonderful weekend with them I would be in tears. That is when I started to have the best talks with the boss upstairs. Often it was prompted by what I had playing for music but it was quiet, peaceful and very humbling. Now that the boys are driving and I have no reason to have to drive them I still have the moments in my car. Just last night as I drove the 30 minutes to get home I had a nice talk and got insight into some poems I think will be great. (at least to me) I have received ideas on how to do my monthly high council talks in Church or how to reach the kids or how to make my wife feel more appreciated and try to make her day to day better and easier.

A good Burp

I talked about this on one of the very first posts I did on this blog. Over the past couple of days I have thought again about the need and joy of a good burp. Maggie (my 5 month old) is the best example, sometimes she will squirm and be upset, you know that she is uncomfortable, then a big burp will come out and she is all happy.
The other day in Church she let a burp out, the old ladies turned to glare at me so I pointed to the baby and instantly they were all smiles and saying how cute it was.
Now if only she can take the blame for other things that happen….

Podcasts and my iPod

SO I have been listening to this Pod Cast on my iPod for the past week. I think I am almost done with all that are available. I really like this format. The LDS Music market is small but full of passionate people.
It is nice to be able to listen to something that entertains and informs.
I have gotten very bored with the regular radio no matter what format it is. However, I must admit that I do also listen to Radio from Hell here in Salt Lake. It too is podcasted but I just listen on my way onto work.
(I wonder what that says about my personality?)

Midnight Show Fans and waanabes

Last night at the 11:59 pm showing of “Dark Knight” we had the die hard fans of Batman the so so people who came to see the hype and a good movie, as well as new fans to the whole thing. Most have not read any of the comics. The great thing about midnight first showings is the dress up. It happened with LOTR and last night it was in full force. Batman’s, Jokers, Two face, even a Spiderman or two.
The movie fulfilled all hopes I had for it. As I crawled into bed Nat said "You gonna have nightmares now" I honestly replied "Probably" (good thing I didn't)
I am grateful that my boys and I have the chance to go and then talk about the ins and outs of the movie for days to come. (By the way…the movie ROCKED!)

Midnight Shows

Ok so I have to admit that I am a bit excited that come 12:01 am this evening I will be sitting in the dark with my 2 boys and feeling the excitement grow as Dark Knight will be starting.
I not only am grateful for midnight shows but for a wife who will let me take a early nap come 8pm tonight so I can make it through.

Sick days

So this morning I woke up not feeling 100% (OK so most of it was acting I am sure) But I decided that I would finally use one of my sick days that have been building up.
After sleeping in and also taking a nap I feel so much better.
I am grateful that I have a company that has sick days, as well as vacation and holidays.
I also have enjoyed being home with Maggie and Nat.

Saturdays Warrior 35 years later

35 years ago a LDS play about a modern day family hit the stage in Salt Lake.
I remember the excitement from family and friends about it. I went with a non-member date and enjoyed it. I have enjoyed the music since and have also seen how the music and play are kind of dated. I must admit that I am grateful it came about. It was the first of it’s kind and opened up a whole new area of music and entertainment. I still remember the feelings I had as I drove home all those years ago and for that I am grateful!

Adoption Rocks!

This morning Maggie woke up at 4:30 am had a bottle and change then went back to sleep at 5:15. As I sat on the couch, kind of tired, and looked at her smiling up at me I was over whelmed once more with the miracle she truly is. I am so grateful for adoption and the chance for Nat and I to be parents. LDS Family Services rocks! We have been involved with them for 3 ½ years now and couldn’t be happier. Even after Maggie was placed with us we have stayed active in Families Supporting Adoption, the volunteer arm of Family Services on the adoption part.
Miracles happen some just don’t come when we think they should.

Calculators and Spell check

I remember way back in high school when I got my first fancy calculator. It did more than simple math and was the size of a paper back book.
Now days I have the same functions on the calculator that is on my phone.
I am grateful for having them so handy since I am terrible with math. I also am grateful for spell check (When I use it) It helps me with my spelling problems as well

Shakespeare Rocks!

I must admit that I am a bit of a nerd in that, some days I really enjoy watching-listening to Shakespeare. I enjoy the comedies the most but once in awhile the tragedies really hit the spot. Two weeks ago I watch Hamlet (with Derek Jacobi) wow. This afternoon I have a lot of non thinking work that I need to do on spread sheets so I will be watching King Lear. He is one of my favorite characters with all that he learns and goes through.

A perfect Kids Dog

Our dog Chloe is a great kids dog! She is so patient and puts up with a lot. We saw this first when Nats niece was born and grew up (she is now 3) As an infant the dog just sat there and took whatever was heaped upon her. Maggie has now discovered that the dog is around and moves a lot. She will just sit and watch her. Chloe will come over and lick her and try to play. Every once in awhile Maggie will get a hold of Chloe’s ears or fur and pull. Some times she will not let go but Chloe just sits there and takes it.
I loved having a dog growing up and I am grateful to have Chloe for Maggie to know.

4th of July

This past weekend was a good one. I always enjoy the 4th. I am also very grateful for those that went ahead and have made the 4th possible. We have a few neighbors that served in WWII (as well as my dad) I look up to these men soooo much. Some can talk openly about most of what they went through some can not talk at all and I respect that.
I am also very proud of my neighbors that serve now.
Because of them I am allowed to write this blog as well as celebrate the 4th. Not to mention believe and practice my religion and exercise my other freedoms.

What The Flag Means To Me(written 9-12-01)

The red is the blood of too many people who have given their lives

to provide us the right to fly, or burn it.

It is also the blood of the many innocent lives lost,

simply because they were Americans.

The white is the hopes and dreams

of the families of those who have died,

that their sacrifice was not in vain and meant something.

The blue is the promise of each new generation,

that they will leave the world a better place than their parents did.

It also is the many tears shed among all classes of people,

hoping for this better life.

The stars represent the heavenly guidance

our leaders receive from above,

starting with our founding fathers down

to the present day administration.

(this is given even if they don't deserve it themselves)

What does the flag mean to me?

It's hard to put into words,

but as I stand with hand

over heart and sing

the last words of, "...and the home of the brave."

a tear comes to my eye, and my heart beats a little stronger.

This flag is my heritage

from my father and his father,

and what I leave to my children.

Long may it wave

My Photog Wife

My wife really works magic with her camera. She is very modest but I know she is one of the best I have seen.

Just look at this picture of Maggie. For those that know Maggie they will all agree that this really captures her personality

Not to metion that Maggie is so cute that it is hard to get a bad picture of her!

I am so proud of her and her talant!

Wash Day

Monday has turned into wash day. Now that Nat is home and not working several routine things are popping up, one is Monday all the wash getting done. Not only does she do the wash but folds and hangs it up…I used to think I was such a great hubby when I did the wash each week and then tossed it on the couch or chair to be folded over the next few days… Also she organized my closet wow… I must say I am grateful for my wife and the treat of having clean clothes without much effort on my part. Now about the ironing….

National anthem

Today at Church we sang the National Anthem since it is close to the 4th of July. As we stood and sang Maggie started to sing as well. Every time we sing it(each year at least) and we sing all the verses a tear comes to my eye. I really don't know why it just does. I am grateful to be in the US I am grateful to live where I do and have the neighbors I do.

My Boys

This morning I headed over to my folks so I could help my dad. He had called last night and asked what time I would be there. Well, since I am old I told the boys to come over in case I needed there help. Well turns out dad changed his mind but the boys came over anyway and mowed the lawn for me. This is after being out late to a show. It wasn't a midnight showing but a 10:10 show. They invited me to the movie and it was fun.
I am so grateful for the relationship I have with my boys (and Jo and Maggie as well).

Les Mis

As I was at the gym last night (I know hard to believe but I went). I had my iPod on shuffle as usual. I came across several songs in a row from Les Mis. This prompted me to stop the shuffle and just listen to the songs in order. I love this musical! I am grateful that I have been able to see it many times. I am also grateful that my wife loves it as do my kids. Sharing this experience for the first time with them is one of my sweetest memories. My kids used to (well they still do ) make fun of how easy I cry at plays and movies. Les Mis taught them the power that a play or movie can have and for that I am most grateful of all

Our Birth Mother

Yesterday was our birth mothers birth day. I have to say how grateful I am for her and the courage and unselfish love she has to place Maggie with us. Maggie is the best thing to happen to Nat and I and without our wonderful Birth Mother we would not have the joy we do.
Birth mothers all over are special. They demonstrate the most unselfish act of love by making the miracles happen that only they can.
I heard it said before that a birth mother has basically 3 choices.
1. They could have an abortion. Then the baby would not be around at all.
2. They could decide to parent. (Most often in a one parent home) and hope that the baby would have the life and chances of success it would otherwise. Knowing that they will show the baby love and support.
3. Place the child in a 2 parent loving home to be raised by a loving family that might be able to offer the child better chances of success.

So today and everyday I am grateful for our families super hero, our birth mother. We hope and pray for your happiness and success. A day does not go by that I do not say thank you in my heart for all you have done.

Grumbling but grateful

I don’t know if this is a grateful item or not but, I ordered a new laptop for work. The company was nice enough to deliver it to the wrong address. It went to Plano Tx not Utah. I called and thought I had it straightened out, but no word, no laptop and my old one is on the verge of dying.
I am grateful that I can send a quick email to ask about it rather than sit on hold and not get calls returned.
Once it gets here it won’t be a big deal I guess but….ok stay positive…I am grateful I can at least order a new laptop with out any expense on my part.!

Power of Blogs

I am truly amazed at how the world is connected simply by blogs. I love looking at my families blogs as well as our friends. It is great to know that our friends can keep up with our lives by a simple click of a mouse.
It also blows me away at the amount of people world wide that get to your blog without much effort on your part. Look at the map (at the right or a better shot at the bottom of the page. Click on it to see a bigger view)
That just makes me smile and grateful to live in an age where it is all possible!

What makes me smile

Ok so at 4 am this morning (and yesterday morning) I was awoken by Maggie stating to fuss a little. I go in as soon as I hear her now due to the fact that she loves to roll over on her stomach and I don't want her falling asleep again on her tummy with her face buried in a blanket etc.

Well every time she does this I roll her over and she gives me that smile that just melts my heart. I change her and if need feed her. This morning she stayed up so we watched Saturdays nights Robin Hood together.

I am so grateful for a wonderful family and that Maggie saw fit to join us in her special way that she did.

The Dump

I spent today working in the yard and mainly in the carport cleaning and organizing. I ended up going 3 times to the dump with my dads pickup.
Wow the place looks better! I am grateful that we have a dump close by. Round trip it took 45minutes to drive there, wait in line, dump and then drive home. Only for the cost of 3 bucks!
I am tired but glad to see the yard and carport coming together.

BBC Robin Hood

As I stated before, I got a new DVD recorder for father’s day. I have spent the past week starting to record the shows I have saved. I must say I really enjoy Robin Hood. This is a BBC show that is in it’s 2nd season. The shows first were shown earlier in England and through the miracle of You Tube I was able to watch the entire season (It was in 10 minute pieces)
So as I have recorded the ones that have shown here I am happy to sit through and watch them again.
If you want to see a good version of Robin or the Sheriff or really any of the characters tune into BBC America on Saturday nights.
I am grateful for good TV when it happens!

DVD Recorder

I got a new DVD player/recorder for fathers day. My old one finally burned out and would not even play regular dvds. So now I start the long process of taking everything I have saved on my cable dvr and burn them onto disc. Natalie says she doesn’t understand why I have to have TV shows to watch later. (This coming from a lady who will watch Americas next top model or John and Kate plus 8, whenever it comes on no matter how many times she has seen it before).
Will, I enjoy good shows. I only have 2 that I am saving and burning to disc. BBC Robin Hood and Heroes. I have the first season of both and now want the 2nd. It saves me having to buy them when they come out on DVD since I record straight from the tv. I also enjoy some of the commercials. (Well, that might be a lie) But I am grateful to record the programs I want and watch them wherever

Randall

To is Randall's birthday. So I must talk about how grateful I am for him.

He is a riot to have around. Nat says he is a mini me in every detail. His sense of humor and his approach to life is quite admirable.

Growing up he was always close to his sister and brother. He has a special bond with Maggie. She gives him a smile that only he gets.

Now if we can just find him the perfect girl, that will put up with comics, belt buckles, not much money and his quirky comments that I find so funny.

Don't worry bud she is out there...(Please send contact info to.....)

Homemade Taco Soup

When Maggie was placed with us the neighbors brought in a few days of dinners. One of those dinners was a homemade Taco Soup. It was so good that we got the recipe and have had it several times in the past 4 months. Tonight Nat made it once more and every time I have it I am grateful for neighbors who worried and prayed with us as we worked on our adoption miracle.

Also Last night Jo and Josh as well as Cody came over for fathers day. It was a blast. I am so proud of all My kids and what they have done and are doing in their life's. I am also grateful for how Maggie loves them all. Jo and her have a special bond. (So do The boys and Maggie) but when Jo holds Maggie she just seems to snuggle in. She wont even do that with me....

Drive in Friends

Last night we got together with 11 other families to watch a movie in a friends backyard. Now it was not on a regular TV but with the use of a HD projector on the side of the house. We were getting together for Families Supporting Adoption.
I am so grateful that we have this tie in with other adoptive families and those waiting/working on their own adoption miracle. As the years go on it means that Maggie will have friends that were adopted and know that it is a positive thing.
We watch Ratatouille and it was wonderful, a little cold but neat all the same. We even had fresh popped movie popcorn from a machine we rented.

Midnight is now kinda late

My wife told me yesterday that I am getting too old to act like a kid and go to midnight showings of movies. Of course I ignored her and headed off to see my favorite Green guy with Randall and Cody. A father and sons bonding moment.
Well this morning I have to admit she is sort of right. I am grateful that she let me take a nap before we left for the show and really grateful that she lets me go.
As for the movie I will post more on my other blog

Weather

Ok so in Utah we are used to weird weather. But it is the first time in a long time that the following has happened. Yesterday as I was driving into work I looked toward the mountains and saw that it was snowing at the tops. Wow here it is June, last week we had temps in 90s and now it is snowing. That is just weird. I guess I better count us lucky since Friends in NJ say they hope it rains so it will cool down to the 80's.

PS on TV watching...Maggie does not seem to like watching friends. She adores Spider man cartoons though!!!!

Sense of Humor

Last night Cody came over for the night. He along with myself holding Maggie, and Randall sat and watch a TV show. I started to crack up how my boys were laughing at the same dumb jokes I was. Maggie of course just sat and stared at the TV then at us. She would smile but that was at us acting so goofy.
I am grateful that my boys have the same sense of humor as me. I know at times it drives Natalie and Laurie Jo nuts, but oh well....We just have to make sure Maggie follows us and not them.