Atkin Misadventures

2010 Update!!

2010-08-22T20:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes, yes, yes. It's been forever since I've updated my blog. And frankly, I could barely remember my blog address and password!!

It's been another very busy year so far - doing all the same ol' things as I've blogged about before.

SCHOOL:
Trentin's starting HS -- its crazy, I feel really old all of a sudden. He's grown several inches this summer and is taller than me now.

Trey's going into 6th grade. Our goal this year is for him to do homework at least ONE or TWO times this year, and not fail most of his classes due to lack of work completion....! On a positive note -- he won his school's 2 mile run this spring -- fastest boy in the school. So I guess if things don't work out with school -- maybe he's got a career in running...!

WORK
Troy and I have both been super busy with work. Troy has just returned from a 10day trip to Germany for work and has a lot more travel there to go...which means I get more quality time with my boys!!!

SOCCER
Both boys made their competitive soccer teams again this year. Yes, they have to tryout and be able to earn their spot on the team every year. They have both worked very hard and I'm proud of them. They've both had some very positive moments this past year in soccer -- its fun to watch. Trentin has his heart set on playing college soccer in -- and if he remains on his team, chances are very good for this opportunity as his coach does a great job getting his players college placements.

Troy and I continue to be volunteers in our boys soccer club -- and this also takes a lot of time, but we generally find our involvement rewarding and keeps us involved with our children's interests.

PERSONAL
Troy and I took a vacation to Puerto Rico this year, and our family is heading to Los Cabos in December. We look forward to a non-soccer, warm, tropical vacation!! Earlier this year, I also was able to spend a week with my sister and her babies (twins) and fun 2yr old daughter!!

I just completed putting on a 5K fundraiser for our soccer club. Both boys ran in it - Trentin finished 5th overall (20:29), and Trey came in 2nd for his team (25mins). We raised a little money -- but more than that it was a lot of fun! I'm posting pictures of that and a few cute family pics.

Troy continues to enjoy sleeping -- he can't get enough of it, and he's getting really good at it! Unfortunately, with how busy things are for him -- he doesn't get to practice this as much as he'd like!!

I have continued to run -- I ran the SLC Half Marathon and beat last years time, so I was happy about that. I'm trying to get my boys to run with me and start learning to enjoy it -- they're slowly coming along!

.....speaking of running --- I gotta' go -- FIRST DAY of school for the boys tomorrow!!

Random Recent Photos 2009

2010-01-01T18:20:00.000-08:00

This is Trentin and his cousin Evan, the budding soccer player, or future WWE wrestler!!

This is Troy and I last night at our New Years Eve get together -- we had a great time!!

Me, April, and Sandy with our lucky Irish beads - at our New Years get together!

One of the few pictures of Trey -- mainly because he has spent that vast majority of the last several months playing Roblox on the computer -- no lie!! This pic was taken in St George, right behind my mom's home, where Trey and Bella had climbed atop these beautiful red cliffs.

Trentin and his cousins, Tyler and Evan, in their best "muscle man" stance -- Trentin spent most of the time wrestling at Thanksgiving with his cousins and Master Wrestler Shawn!!

Trentin and I at Thanksgiving --- he's growing up sooo fast it scares me!!

Master Shawn teaching proper submission hold techniques!!

Grandma Atkin and THE BOYS!!! Tyler is wearing the hat he wore the whole time we were there -- it must have some deep sentimental meaning -- such as - "I like this hat, I'm not taking it off ever!"

I don't even know where to start to explain this picture. Hmmmm, let's just say me and my work friend, Cinthia (middle), thought we were meeting our old work friend, Wendy (right), for a holiday dinner.....apparently she had other plans in mind, so we just rolled with it....!!

Troy, showing Lavell "who's boss"!!! (This was a Leonard's BYU Hall of Fame induction.)

My Latest Legging Obsession!!

2009-12-09T18:01:00.001-08:00

Tart Leggings -- very comfy!!

Banana Republic Leggings!

So I haven't blogged a lot lately -- but I thought I'd share my latest obsession -- black leggings!! I know they are completely unflattering to the body for even the skinniest of people. However, I just can't help myself -- they are just so comfortable and I can't bear the thought of putting on cold denim jeans or polyester dress pants in our furrreeezing weather! I have shiny, matte, thin, thick, dressy, and sporty pairs of them!! I bet you didn't know there was a difference among leggings!! Nooooww -- if I could just find a pair of knee high boots that will fit my non-existant calf muscles so I don't look like I'm wearing big 'ol rain boots!

Belated Thanksgiving Gratitude List

2009-12-08T21:46:00.000-08:00

Here is the list I posted on my Facebook Page on Thanksgiving, listing all the various things for which I am grateful!!!! I thought I'd share with you all even though its a little dated!!

I'm GRATEFUL FOR:

- ADHD medication - my motto is "a medicated family is a happy family" or "your medication is my sanity"!

- When my husband returns from trips so I don't have to do his menial tasks anymore...take out garbage, feed dogs, turn off house lights, make dinner, wash laundry, close the garage door, etc....

- My iPhone.

- A new Nordstrom Rack nearby.

- Drivers that understand the concept of a passing lane!

- Scentsy candles that can be worn around teenage boys waists --- oops that doesn't exist-- new product idea anyone?

- Still having a functional, albeit partially chewed up, retainer.

- Having a large closet full of Nike running gear, in the event that I start jogging again or am needed as a Nike model.

- Not having my hair burnt off when a child thinks it would be funny to turn up my flat iron to the hottest setting without telling me.

- Knowing that apparel items I reaally like come in other colors and duplicates - because I have plenty of storage room in my basement.

- Having a father in the trucking industry who helped expand my choice of vocabulary words when angry. Hmmm, ok my dad wasn't a trucker, but cut me some slack ok?

- Being around such dysfunctional people that it's easy to blame them for all my problems, and I might even be right!

- Being from a country that truly practices equality and healthcare for all citizens, "God Bless Canada!"... Jussst kidding all you Americans- please don't tell me to go home - I love the US - shopping is waay better!!

- Having children who don't let my ego get too big- so I can remember I don't do anything good for them, going to work is easy, I am stupid, I have "flubber", I've ruined their life, etc...

- Heated car seats so my children can secretly turn them on to warm my rear in 100 degree weather, just in case my profuse sweating was making me feel chilly!

- Knowing that as smart as "Genius" on Itunes is, it will NEVER correctly suggest songs for my liking- because how do predict the listening tastes of one individual that has ABBA, Limp Biskit, Rascal Flatts, Bruce Hornsby, Ice Cube, Wale, Backstreet Boys, Journey, Def Leppard, Rent, Earth Wind and Fire, Erasure, Fabolous, and Tupac all on one playlist?

DRUMROLL PUuulleease for my LAST item for which I am grateful

-------- KNOWING that Tom Cruise has to wear LIFTS (you know in his shoes to make him taller) and has to stand on apple boxes by his costars when making movies!!

State Champs!!!

2009-10-25T21:03:00.001-07:00

STATE CHAMPS!!!! GOOO INTER FC!!!!
Trentin and Trey's soccer team had their State Cup tournament this past month. Trey's team, made it to the quarterfinals, and played awesome, but just couldn't get the ball in the net, and lost 2-1. Trentin's team played strong throughout the whole tournament, but struggled a little in the final game this Saturday. They were tied 1-1, went into overtime, and were tied 2-2 in overtime. This meant they went into a PK shootout. We went first, and our player made the PK. Our goalie proceeded to block 3 STRAIGHT PK shots from the other team, while our first 3 players made their PK's, resulting in our boys taking home the title of State Cup Champs. This is Trentin's 3rd State Cup medal with his team. Quite an accomplishment!! Trentin has worked really hard to be able to compete on this team, and will continue to work. I'm proud of both my boys. It's fun to see their hard work pay off!!

As a side note, our soccer club Inter, is the smallest club in the state, but out of the 8 possible boys state cup titles -- we took home 2 titles -- 95 Premier (Trentin's team - Trentin is the 2nd to the left on the bottom row in the pic) and 92 Premier. The only other club in the state to take home 2 titles is the largest club in the state!! Now you know why Troy and I put so much into this club --- because we feel we've got the best trainer and coach in the state!!! He's a great example and mentor to both of my kids -- and inspires kids to love soccer and want to be better!!

Happy Libra Birthday!!!

2009-10-11T21:33:00.001-07:00

Well after that last depressing blog -- it's time to celebrate life!!!

Doesn't this cake look FEROSH (short for ferocious all you non-Project Runway fans)???

My sister Skye has apparently nominated herself as the official birthday reminder person. Well Skye -- I'm beating you to the punch this month!!!

Happy (soon-to-be) Birthday MOM, SKYE and any other fellow Librans!!! I hope you have FABULOUS birthday celebrations!!

M is for MUSIC -- which my mom loves so MUCH!

O is for OPTIMISM -- she strives to get within her touch!!

M is for MERCIFUL, compassionate, loving and such . . .

S is for SKITTISH -- always flitting from here to there,

K is for KIND, and always concerned about burdens others bear.

Y is for YIELDING a house full of children for whom to care.

E - EPICUREAN -- a lover of cooking, food, and happy to share.

I thought it would be interesting to post a little information about the Libran personality. Okay I don't agree with all this, but I found this excerpt on Librans, and thought it would be interesting for you all to read and see what you think about the the Librans you know!!!

"If you are born between 23rd September and 23rd October and your ruling planet is Venus, you probably belong to the zodiac Libra, who stands for justice, harmony and balance. That is why this zodiac is represented by a pair of scales which speaks volumes about his personality for it is the only zodiac bearing the symbol of an inanimate object. Librans cannot perform to the best of their abilities unless they are teamed up with others. They are not loners and don't like to stay alone. They try to avoid conflict and be fair, and there fore they are a constant delight to those who pair up with them. His keen sense of aesthetics makes him a lover of beauty, haute couture and expensive gifts as well as intellectual conversations. Under the influence of the element air, a Libran always hankers for an ideal. Newton's third law- "to every action there is an equal an opposite reaction" - is the motto that guides the life of a Libran."

"Positive Side of Libra Character: Librans are famous for being peace-loving, idealistic, sociable, easygoing, charming, romantic, soft-hearted, urbane and diplomatic. Librans make the best organizers and the best masterminds behind strategies. They can be always counted on to make peace and douse conflicts between team members because their sense of unprejudiced justice and fair play is acutely strong. They are curious by nature and knowing little tit-bits of information about people around them satisfies their curiosity. Some other positive traits of a Libran are love for art, neatness, desire for popularity, attention to detail, love for public service and charity, dressing up for occasions and planning ahead of time. He is also a bit of a perfectionist. People are easily attracted to them through their irresistibly charming and gently affectionate nature. They are warm, jovial, energetic, gregarious, polite to everybody and lovable. They are lovers of good food, good wine and living in style - epicureans par excellence."

"Negative Side of Libra Character: But on the flip side they are notoriously flirtatious, gullible, soft, self indulgent, easily influenced, changeable and indecisive. Librans are supposed to have a wavering personality because they try to evaluate a situation from all angles before coming to a fair final decision that is best for all. Boredom makes them lethargic and others have to take the initiative to refresh and pep them up. Although Librans make excellent team members, they are lacking in leadership qualities. He can be at times imperious and narcissistic. Their craving for romance brings about their ruin. Their heads are ruled by their hearts. Librans enjoy the reputation of being indolent and they have mastered the art of procrastination.A Libran puts down his pathologically idle nature to his epicurean tastes. A Libran woman often makes a pretty lazy homemaker and mother, who chooses to rely on an army of domestic helps."

HAHAHA!!! Now the LAST SENTENCE is HILARIOUS!! LAZY HOMEMAKER AND MOTHER--- well MAYBE that's because WOMEN aren't SUPPOSED to do all the HOMEMAKING and PARENTING!!!!! So not LAZY -- but EQUAL OPPORTUNITY HOMEMAKING AND PARENTING!!

Woe Is Me...So Just Let Me Be!!

2009-10-06T21:46:00.001-07:00

Woe Is Me...So Just Let Me Be!!

I'm tired tonite.

I feel overwhelmed with being a wife and parent today.

So, I resigned . . . for just a few hours alright?

Little in life is black and white, mostly grey......okay.

Crooked teeth after 2 years of braces.

An utterly uninspiring 5th grade teacher.

Atkin passion misunderstood in many places.

Humiliation sitting by screaming soccer parents in bleachers.

Running and running, figuratively, literally...but where to?

Compassion yet helplessness for loved ones experiencing despair.

Loyalty often runs face deep, not through and through.

I forgot to sign the document supporting "Life is Fair"

...well Jimmy crack corn, and I don't care!

Hmmmm....time to reign it all in now.

Meet with principal, check.

Get BEST orthodontist, G-pa Atkin, in the WEST, and HOW!

Sit far away at games to avoid impending parent train wreck.

Recite "Serenity Prayer" over and over in my car.

Replace Alanis Morrissette CD with GaGa's "Just Dance"!!

Take Gold's Gym street exit, instead of one leading to a bar!

Play lighthearted computer game, "Fancy Pants"!!

Avert danger - stay off the calamitous teeter totter!!

See, my pity party is almost to a close.

I got furthest in family swimming lessons because I can tread water.

So I will tread ce soir . . and watch all my taped Bravo reality shows!!!

There's No Place Like Home!!

2009-09-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

Don't you LOOVVEEE, love these cute little shoes?? So if you know me at all -- you know that I'm a HUGE KLUTZ! I trip walking on carpet in flat shoes!! HOWEVER, I found these cute little "Dorothy Shoes" (as I call them) on sale of course at Nordstrom - and I couldn't resist taking the chance I would fall flat on my face while wearing them. See how sparkly and red they are -- they totally made me think of a modern Dorothy shoe from the Wizard of Oz!! So I broke out of my black ballet flat comfort shoe zone and bought them!! AND, the bonus is they're "Sofft" brand shoes, meaning they are padded and very comfy. I vow to wear them and not just put them in the back of my closet -- well this week anyway. I'm going to try to wear them on Wednesday and Thursday.

I bought another fun pair of more casual heels -- maybe I'll have the courage to show you all cause they're a little different.....

Girls Weekend!!

2009-09-16T23:52:00.001-07:00

GIRLS WEEKEND!!!

Maybe not the "classic" girls weekend,

Sisters, sister-in law, and mom - just a few days to mend.

No drinks, no dancing, no drama!

Just keeping topics happy-avoiding discussion of Obama!!

Our chauffeur, Kim, eluded the Filmore fuzz,

Stacey was on cop watch, and maintained a pretzel buzz,

Me, AKA DJ Q, well I was a peach!!! Haha!!

Sharing incredulous stories, and belting out Lady Gaga!!

We joined Skye and mom in St. George -- sweltering hot!!

And the weather was warm too...but that's what we got!

Shopping led to Stace and Kim's Saucony shoe introduction,

The day ended with an awesome outdoor Aida production!

Maybe in another year we can again meet,

Although Skye's impending twins birth may make this a difficult feat!

Perhaps we can visit her when they arrive-help her and share parenting tips,

'Til then, we'll remember this fun weekend of music, laughter, and friendship.

Night Games!!!

2009-09-09T22:23:00.000-07:00

THE COMMUNITY BED

Hmmmm, so many options of where to sleep . . .

Yep, this WAS MY bed.

Troy is in Germany.

The dogs, all FOUR of them, were bathed and fed.

Trentin plopped down his big teenage body,

Announcing I COULD NOT make him move.

It was HIS turn to sleep in my husbandless bed,

AND he had SOMETHING to prove.

Trey took a spot at the foot of the bed

Not feeling the least bit deterred.

I query, "You think you're sleeping THERE?"

He simply smiled, and responded, "WORD"!!

There is still ONE opening on the community mattress.

I left to brush my teeth and prepare for sleep.

Upon my return, I see my spot is gone.

Mya and Bella eyes closed, curled up without a peep.

Hmmm, so many options I scanned...

I could lay by Trey, who can sleep and concurrently do a headstand.

I can snuggle by Trentin, who has his own copyrighted fart brand.

Lastly, I have my furry friends who lick my face, feet, and hands.

What did I do -- I slept with my flock.
And the subsequent night made sure I had my door locked!!

Buy THESE LADIES!! NOW!!

2009-09-01T23:06:00.001-07:00

NIKE ECLIPSE NATURAL MOTION SHOES!!

Buy these gals -- I promise you won't regret it!

On sale for $49.99 at Nike.com

http://store.nike.com/index.jsp?country=US&lang_locale=en_US&)#l=shop,search,searchList-eclipse

- extremely lightweight
- comfy
- great slip on and wear around all day shoes -- I've worn them ALL summer!!

Trust me on this one. You'll want a pair in every fun color!!!!

Things To Avoid Today . . .

2009-08-31T13:46:00.000-07:00

1) My room - containing probably 2 months or MORE of laundry to clean and fold . . .
2) Troy - after his meeting this evening with someone unwilling to take responsibility for his incompetence and rudeness . . .
3) Trey between 6-7pm - the typical hour when I am reminded very clearly how much he hates me or someone else in the family, I am stupid and the "worst mom", no he's not going to soccer practice, no he's not doing his reading, I need to find his soccer stuff if I want him to go, etc., etc.
4) The gym - which I have successfully avoided for the last 12 days, of course because I have no clean Nike gear to wear!!!
5) Trentin around 9pm - when he inevitably finally starts pulling out his homework and saying he needs my help . . .
6) Sydney - our decrepit 100+ year old black lab who hobbles around blindly, standing in the middle of the yard with no apparent purpose, has limited hearing, reminding me daily that someone has to figure out how to get her into a truck to make a trip to the vet for a night, night . . .

hmmmmm . . . I guess that leaves the following BETTER options:

I'M BACK -- BRIEFLY!!!

2009-08-23T21:09:00.000-07:00

1st ANNUAL INTER FC 5K

INTER FC 5K MEMORIAL RUN

. . . So I've been MIA from Atkin Blogging,

Sorry, been very busy 5K planning and jogging!!

Inter memorial 5K race finally occurred,

AWESOME -- in one word!!

Touched my heart to see supporters of Inter and Karin,

Most wearing yellow - a favorite color she was often wearing . . .

SOOO much fun to see such great youth participation,

And good ol' 69th place Troy ran (yes, 69 to his chagrin!) - got a standing OVATION!!

Trentin's finished 34th - he wished he actually wore running, NOT soccer, shoes,

Probably couldn't stand the smell of them, from stepping in all our dog poos!!

And defiant little Trey, DID NOT want to run fast,

His 93rd place finish kept him nine runners away from being dead LAST!!

All in all, the event went off without a hitch,

Hopefully, the local "soccer run" has created us a new little 5K niche!!

Although my first fundraiser didn't make a monetary killin',

The experience, friendship, and family feeling was worth a million . . .

Look MOM, I'm a runner!!!

Trey's soccer coach, Jonny Broadhead - the best youth development trainer in the state, in my very unbiased opinion of course!!! We LOVEE this kid!!

We absolutely ADORE this guy!! Trentin's soccer coach, Matt Broadhead! Such an awesome mentor, coach, and passionate individual. He's taught Trentin not just about soccer, but life lessons too - invaluable.

This is a tree planted in memory of Karin at the park we held the run.

JAILBREAK!!!

2009-07-14T22:18:00.001-07:00

JAILBREAK!!!

i got an iphone.

i can't leave it alone.

didn't have one til now,

cuz AT&T is a monopoly "i"cow!

luckily Troy has prison skills,

jailbroken within 2 Diet Coke refills.

now i am "i" obsessed,

i cross my fingers there'll be no fugitive arrest!

my i's are now set on a 3G,

so watch out AT&T penitentiary!!!

Whatchu Talkin Bout Police Officer?

2009-07-04T00:18:00.001-07:00

Pooooorr litttle Gary Coleman. If things weren't already going badly enough for him --- living in Santaquin, Utah, broke as can be, angry little guy as can be -- and NOW he gets the crap beaten out of him by his wife and the cops have to come to his home to help him and arrest his wife. Ahhh. That just breaks my heart. So humiliating. I just want to invite him to live in our basement -- Trey and the doggies would be great friends for him. We could nurse him back to an Atkin brand of dysfunctional happiness!!

Gary - if you're reading this --- (I'm putting my pretend hand phone up to my ear and mouthing the words "call me").

In the meantime, take a moment to watch this youtube video, and enjoy this:

AND THIS:

I am peeing my pants right now!! I LOVE THAT ARNOLD CHARACTER, trippin the lights fannnnfreakintastic!!

A "Golden" Day!!

2009-07-03T17:48:00.000-07:00

So Troy and I are completely unimportant, ordinary folks. However, one of Troy's old college buddies, Mitchel, invited us up to the opening of Red Ledges Golf Course in Heber -- one designed by Jack Nicklaus - that Mitchel helped oversee and develop (and his family owns it).

We debated on whether on not to bring Trentin and Trey to this little shin dig, and decided we needed to b/c we knew we'ld be gone quite a while. As a result, while we walked 4 holes watching Jack Nicklaus play each hole and discuss golf tips and strategies, our boys stayed in the "kids area" where they had a little soccer set up and a few other activities. Frankly, I was just enjoying the beautiful scenery, the warm weather, and a day to just be out of my own daily routine!!! Although I was worried about leaving the boys, they had both taken their "calm down" medication, so I sorta' felt safe that they wouldn't act like the animals they usually act like!!!

As we walked, it was great to catch up a little with Mitchel, his wife Annica, his sister and parents, who we know from many years ago. Unfortunately, I seem to be taking Troy's role of saying all the wrong things these days -- and asked Mitchels mom if that was her mom standing with her --- it was HER SISTER!! Ooops, very embarrassing. Despite this, they were so nice and welcoming.

The highlight of the day for Troy was probably meeting Lavell Edwards, and getting his picture taken with him. I think Troy peed his pants a little when I took the picture!! Lavell was very down-to-earth and happy to oblige.

After walking the 4 holes, we were welcomed with homeade gelato, mmmm!!! We came back to find that Trentin and Trey had not surprisingly got into it a little tiff with a few other kids while playing soccer. We took that as not as bad as it could have been and just quickly escorted them out of the area, where we briefly looked at the Mercedes Benz cars on display. Unfortunately, Troy and Trey decided to open the door of one of the cars -- and subsequently set off the car alarm! At that point, we decided it was time to quickly go in the big tent to eat the buffet!! The food was awesome, the weather was beautiful.

As the afternoon came to a close, Trey, Trentin, and I went to use the bathrooms at the makeshift clubhouse. Trey apparently didn't quite lock the door properly, and a staff member went to go in to the bathroom and Trey yells out at him "douche"! The guy quickly retreated, and Trentin came and told me that Trey had just called the guy that name. Thank heavens it was a younger adult and he was very amused by it. I said, "Did he just call you a "douche"? And the guy, nodded his head and chuckled, and said, "That's okay, I was just like that as a kid." I apologized profusely, and quickly decided it was time for the Atkin's to leave -- while we still could without having the ATKIN name completely tarnished and us banned from the golf course!!

Of course, when we got in the car and confronted Trey about his choice of words, he screamed angrily at me, threw his name tag which hit me hard in the back of the head, and adamently insisted he called the guy a "DUDE"!!! Riiiggggghhhhttt!!! A Duddddeeshhh!!

All in all - although we a few Atkin slipups --- we still managed to have a really nice time. I mean, really, we're the Atkin's, so there were many other things that could have gone worse if you think about it!!! We're not quite sure if we'll be invited back to any grand openings, but Troy did get permanent verbal permission to go and golf on the course ANYTIME he wanted, and to just say "Tony Burns says it's okay!!" So at least Troy can return!!!

1st Annual Inter FC 5K Memorial Run

2009-07-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Yes, it's been a while since I've blogged. Fortunately, I didn't delete my blog, like I usually do with things when I think I'm done with them!!!

Truth be told -- I've really just been very busy and don't feel I have many interesting things to blog about for the last month!

One of my current projects is organizing a 5K run for my sons' soccer club -- Inter FC. I wanted to do it as a fund raiser for the club - as well as a way to remember a wonderful mom in the club who recently passed away.

I finally got approval for the run today from the city, so now I'm moving full force ahead to get at least 200 runners!

So if you live in the area -- I would LOVE for you to come and participate in the run.

Race Details:

Saturday, August 22, 2009, 7:30am

Falcon Park, Sandy Utah

Online Registration: http://www.runnercard.com/e/runner.Main?meet=2140

Mail In Registration: http://www.interfcutah.org/5krun.php

ATKIN RACE TO THE BORDER!!!

2009-05-25T21:41:00.000-07:00

DRIVE TO CANADA

Highlights:
- We brought the little doggies, and they were great company!!!

- The boys got along great (with the help of a little medicine)!

- Troy was a captive audience to get all my months of "chatting" about life out of the way in one fell swoop - lucky him!

- The trip went fast -- we drove part way Wednesday, then the remainder Thursday morning.

Lowlights:

- Mainly -- the piece of crap hotel room we stayed at in Helena, it was grosssss. But oh well, we only stayed about 6 hours. Unfortunately, Troy has been permanently scarred psychologically by the sight of the homely woman who checked him in at 2 in the morning.

THURSDAY

Highlights:

- Being back in Cardston! It was great to see my mom, Jimmy Jo, my dad, their houses, the town, and working on getting all the good, terribly bad for you food -- orange Crush slurpee with vanilla soft serve, Old Dutch All-Dressed Chips, Big Turk, Smarties, coke slurpee with bubble-gum ice-cream, Wonderbar, Crunchie, and on and on!!!

- Taking a nice 7 mile run in the country and enjoying the beautiful vista in the evening . . . loved this.

Lowlights:

- Digging the bugs out of my mouth and eyes after my little run!

- Trying to get us all some sleep, cause we were all a little tired.

PRE-RACE DAY

Highlights:

- Going for breakfast with my pops, and seeing his digs!!!

- Going to Lethbridge with my mom, Deann, Zoey, Troy, the boys, and having a nice dinner!

Lowlights:

- Can't think of too many problems -- other than the obvious -- my boys -- grouchy, tired, fighting with each other!

RACE DAY

Highlights:

- THE WEATHER -- was perrfectt!! No wind, not to hot, not too cold -- thank heavens - this was truly an anomaly since no other day we were there had such great morning weather!

- Only one other person had a running skirt on besides me!!!

- Troy and the doggies took me in and hung out with me prior to the beginning of the race.

- My dad was there cheering me on to start the race -- very sweet and unexpected!

- My mom came and found me about 2 miles in and parked her truck and ran about 1/4 mile with me -- also soooo sweet -- I loved this because the 2-4th miles are ALWAYS my worst!!

- The race organizers were just SUPER, and did such a nice job. I got a very nice tshirt for my participation and and embroidered towel for completing the race -- very unique and I love em. - They had water and gatorade stops every mile ---- although IIIII didn't use them AT ALL since I've learned that I NEED that time that gets wasted at those stops -- so I bring my own water and carry it in my hand the whole way! Gives me a LITTLE edge on those other runners who stop!!!

- I ran behind Peter Weasel Moccasin for almost 10 miles -- he was my pace setter (I drifted off him!!)-- then when he stopped to get water at one of the last water stops -- I pulled a "Days of Thunder" move and squeezed past, and didn't see him again til after the race (sorry Peter).

- Finishing the race at 2:05.59 --- about 45 sec faster than my last race. I came in 1st out of 3 in my age group, and 17th out of 40 total women.

- Being greeted at the end of the race by my boys, hubby, mom, and my dad -- they were so sweet!

- Seeing my good friend, Jana, and her gorgeous daughter at the end of the race.

- Trentin went and hung out with Hayden (step-cousin), Trey and Troy went and shot gophers - and have video proof of their gory conquests that were unfortunately shown to me frame by frame until I couldn't take it anymore -- maybe this should go in the "lowlights" section! But they had lots of fun. I hung out with Deann for a little bit, then with my mom for the afternoon.

- For the evening -- Jana, Rita, Shelley, Susan, and I went to dinner in Lethbridge and reverted back to our 16 year old catty, immature ways for about 4 hours (with the addition of my rather colorful language) -- except of course Shelley who was much more mature than we were and so nice and pleasant. (Sorry Shell -- hope we didn't offend). We had some great laughs and remembered a lot of forgotten wonderful (and not so wonderful) memories! We all probably had a few drops of pee in our pants before the night was through -- but it was defnitely worth it!!

Lowlights:

- The race course was a little tough at times -- there were about 3-4 hills -- and I really was dragging to get up these.

- My boys behavior after the race -- possibly the worst its been in any outing I can recall in the last year -- they were tired and bored (because we stayed and chatted with everyone for about 45 min) and subsequently were fighting and complaining. I have a bruise on my leg where Trey fell after being chased by Trentin and he tried to kick Trentin from the ground -- but got me instead!! Our bad-- we shoulda' given them some money and sent them to Reddi Mart to buy candy!

- I felt so bad for Rita -- she was sick as a dog -- and felt miserable during her run.

- We missed having Steph at our evening get together! She's a hoot! Maybe next time.

SUNDAY

Highlights:

- This is more of a "shocker" vs a highlight -- I'm the only one in my family who dragged my sorry rear up to go to church with my mom and Jimmy Jo!! I guess I'm the only one in my family who will receive the blessings of obedience and sacrifice!! It was very nice to hear my mom sing again at church - she has a rather unforgettable, distinctive voice -- so its always nice to get the opportunity to be hear it!!

- My mom made a great bbq beef dinner, that we took to Waterton for a little picnic.

- My aunt Donna, uncle Mike - and their girls, grandkids, spouse - Linc and his girlfriend and kids all came into town to visit. It was great to see everyone after soooo long - it was so nice to catch up with everyone.

Lowlights:

- Knowing our vacation was coming to a close and we'd have to leave the next day!

MONDAY

Highlights:

- Getting a relatively early start 9am!!!

- Seeing my dad, and then Rita and her mom at Extra Foods before we left -- we had to stock up on alllll the good Canadian chocolate bars and goodies to bring back to the US.

- Again -- the boys were actually very well behaved most of the trip ---- hmm, hmm, with the help of our trusty little medication for them!!

- The doggies were super and much more relaxed on the way home.

- No speeding tickets, no accidents requiring someone to subsequently put 6 white crosses on the road if we died (4 us, 2 for the dogs).

- I was ALL talked out from our trip up, plus I was tired, so Troy got the joy of silence and low maintenance from me!!

- The trip went relatively quickly and was relatively uneventful!

- We came home to a nicely cleaned house -- thanks to my great little housecleaner who made a visit while we were gone! That's the BEST, coming home to a clean house!

Lowlights:

- Coming home and seeing that Sidney is STILL alive!! (Our 14yr old dog!!) We secretly hoped she would go peacefully into the night while we were gone!

- Realizing we gotta go back to work tomorrow. Yech, back to reality!

SO THERE YOU HAVE IT!!! THE GREAT ATKIN CANADIAN MEMORIAL WEEKEND ADVENTURE. ALL WENT WELL!!!

HELLO!!!

2009-05-13T23:44:00.001-07:00

Hey Everyone -
Just letting you know I'm still alive. I've been really busy with work, soccer, jogging, yard work, and house ~~slothfulness~~ cleaning!!! Also, I'm in the process of planning a 5K for our soccer club to raise money for player scholarships and as a memorial run for a great woman/mom in our club that recently died. So, if any of the ~~two~~ many of you who read my blog live in the SLC vicinity -- I expect you to register and come run it here in Sandy, August 22, 7:30am sharp!!!! I hope to have things ready to start registering by June 1st. There's been so much going on, I wish I could blog about it all, but just can't seem to find the time . . . maybe this weekend. :)

What's Wrong With This Picture?

2009-04-30T18:38:00.001-07:00

Hmmmmm, I'm thinkin' that long bone over the ribs is actually SUPPOSED to be CONNECTED to another bone, and not floating aimlessly, jutting out into the shoulder skin . . .!!!!

Good thing Trentin got his 1003 juggles a few days ago!

He dove to catch a soccer ball at practice and landed on his left shoulder.

He's out for his Spring soccer season.

Ain't life always full of surprises!!

AMAZING FEET!!!

2009-04-28T18:28:00.000-07:00

Great job, Trentin!

1003 juggles with the soccer ball!

Plus, you made honor roll again this term!!!

6 out of 7 terms so far, not bad!

You're a stud babe.

I LOVE YOU!!!

Is There Such a Thing as Oflactory Abuse?? There Should Be!!

2009-04-26T18:44:00.001-07:00

So I follow my last post about running like a lady -- with something completely disgusting. FARTS. You may want to discontinue reading if you are offended by this word or discussion about it.

I just have to vent - figuratively, of course!!!

CAN I JUST SAY, I DETEST FARTS!

I think that after my pregnancies -- I developed a dog-like sniffer -- and have subsequently become more hypersensitive by even mild poop smelling odors.

If you know me, you know that I'm completely a guys sorta' gal. I can curse, burp, play sports, arm wrestle, and talk smack with the best of 'em.

But you see. I'm done with the farting component of living with males. I don't mean to stereotype, but I do feel guys have some weird fascination with flatulence. Look, I completely GET IT, you know - it's a boy thing, it's funny, cool, a way to feel free, I JUST REALLY CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE!! I'M DONE.

I don't mind an occasional "toot" here and there, or an accidental oops. But I think I am ready to file abuse charges -- olfactory abuse -- the next time I am trapped in a closed space (ie., car, room) and submitted to the stanky smell of crap with an accompanying juicy long-winded high-pitched trumpet sound. Trentin and Trey are now aware that I will PULL THE CAR OVER and drop them off if I have to be assaulted by their rear end smells anymore.

I'm SICK of hearing about "fart balls" (i.e, grabbing air after a fart and throwing it at someone) and "buttercups" (cupping your hand behind your rear and then putting it in someone's face).

We have a 10 push-up rule in the home now when a smell violation occurs. In fact, I know everyone's idiosyncratic smell in my house -- and can appropriately assign culpability without even hearing anything, INCLUDING MY DOGS' PUTRID ANAL EMISSIONS!!! THEIR smells are BEYOND sick and vomit inducing.

Just this week, I had one of Trentin's friends (who knows the rule about passing gas in my car), wait til I dropped him off, then stood outside the car door, farted, and waved the stench my way, slammed the door and ran off laughing!!!! Apparently, my Achilles Heel is just too fun to pass up teasing.

When I run for political office -- sometime in the distant future -- THAT will be my platform -- preserving the sanctity of the air we breath. RESPECTING others' rights to breath in a fart-free environment. Look, smoking was banned from enclosed spaces. Hey, I know it's because smoke is carcinogenic -- but maybe an excess of being exposed to methane/sulfur from farts could also cause cancer! Why couldn't I try to also ban farting from public enclosed places? Think about it -- a car ride, a train ride, an airplane ride, a store aisle, a restuarant - NOT having to walk into or be subjected to someone else's personal air pocket of crap????

Meanwhile . . . it looks like I will just need to invest in a gas mask or learn to breath through my mouth -- and my boys will be in great shape from walking places and doing push-ups!!!!!

Runnin' Like A Lady!!!!

2009-04-20T22:04:00.000-07:00

I did 2 things this week that I would have never imagined I'd do in my life - run a 1/2 marathon, and 2nd, bought a pink running skirt!! Yes, mom, see there is hope for your dark achromatic (black) clothes lovin' daughter!!! ANNNDD it's even a skirt! Who woulda' thunk it?

I have to say --- I'm a HUGE FAN of the running skirt. In fact, I don't know if I'll even go back to shorts, I love them THAT much. Thanks Deets -- for giving me the scoop on this - you are the bomb!

Now, as I do with everything I LOVE -- I research them out extensively until I find exactly what I like, then I buy about 10x more than I need, then hope I don't lose interest in it later, because then they become "Quincey's Closet" items for whomever happens to come to my free store first!!! Here's the 2 styles I have ended up with and I love them!!

Nike New Personal Best Running Skirt:
This was the first skirt I bought, and I've really enjoyed it. In fact, when I modeled it for my friends, they thought it looked so classy that I could pair it with a blazer and wear it to work!!! So, as a joke, I put on the skirt with a white dress shirt, jacket, and dress boots!! Kinda' funny, huh? But it is made out of good quality material, and has a compression short that doesn't ride up terribly when you run. My only concern with this skirt, is that it may get a little hot in the summer. So far, however, I love it! You can get this skirt at www.nike.com for about $60, but if you search the web, you can probably find it much cheaper. I got mine for $30 on sale at a local store.

Pink-Pinkalicious Running Skirt:
I bought this skirt when I checked in for the SLC Half Marathon, at a booth selling all sorts of running items. I wore it this week in the heat, and absolutely love, loved it!! This skirt actually does not have a compression short underneath, but rather a mesh brief, which I think is probably going to be much better for the hot summer days in Utah. The material is lightweight, and I'm able to let this sit a little lower on my hips, which I prefer. They do also sell a skirt with a short underneath, but I found this to be too long of a skirt and didn't really like the compression short -- too much material for me. Here is the website: www.runningskirts.com. They offer 50% Friday specials, but generally cost about $48. I bought mine for $40. I am getting up the nerve to order one of their crazy camo or leopard print skirts. I know these are not for everyone and every body type, and some may mistake you for a tennis player. But I think running skirts are here to stay. So give them a try!!!

Salt Lake City Half Marathon!

2009-04-18T13:43:00.000-07:00

PRE-RACE CHECKLIST:

1) Get hair cut and colored - check - my best hair stylist friend ever, Andrew took care of me.
2) Pick out perfect running outfit - check - all black, nike hoodie and leggings.
3) Eat a great meal the night before - check - Cafe Rio pork tacos, chips/queso, popcorn and a Cherry Diet Coke.
4) Go to bed early and get plenty of sleep - check - midnight is early for me, and 5 1/2 hrs of sleep is not a bad amount for me!!
5) Make sure you have great music picked out to listen and charge your IPOD - check - I listened to Wale "The Crazy" about 7 times (kind of fitting, huh?)!!
6) Stay hydrated - check - Diet Cherry Coke the day before, a few sips of water prior to the race.
7) Mark out your run using landmarks you will remember - check - Nordstrom Rack, Banana Republic, and the best place of course, Gateway Shopping Mall!
8) Run with a good friend - check - me and Camille felt great and had a good run, 2 hrs 6 min, 13.1 miles!
9) Expect the people who care about you most to greet you at the end - check - Trey and Troy were there cheering me to the finish line (Trentin slept in, and got a nice guilt trip from me!!)
10) Believe in yourself and trust that hard work will pay off - check - I tried to just treat it like any other day, but secretly hoped I didn't crap/pee my pants mid run or trip and fall on my face!!

Return From OZ!!

2009-04-12T16:45:00.000-07:00

Dallas Cup 2009

The opening of each game began with the boys and refs facing the fans and waving. Pretty cool!

The opening ceremony in Pizza Hut Park. All the teams came out and met each other.

The stadium "pitch"!! A very nice field. The championship games were all played here.

So just to recap. Trentin was invited as a guest player for a team called Sparta 96. This tournament is a very prestigious international youth tournament. Trentin's team won 1 game, and lost 2 - which is actually quite an accomplishment to win 1 game! They subsequently did not make the semis, but did play 4 additional "friendly" games. We were there for 8 days!!!! Trentin played okay for the tournament games, and played more like himself for the friendlies. I'm sure the pressure of being in such a reputable tournament, plus being a guest player, was probably tremendous for him.

Here's what Trentin said he liked about going to this tournament: the overall experience, playing different teams from other countries (Mexico) from the east, seeing a lot of different great teams, playing in one of the best tournaments in the world, having fun with the teammates.

Me on the other hand. . . . Let's just say 8 days is a loooong time to be away from home without the rest of the family, being with a son who has decided that being an adolescent is a good excuse for being rude to me incessantly, having my credit card # changed midtrip and spending 4 days trying to get an emergency card sent to me so I could pay for my $1000 hotel bill, being with a group of nice parents but nonetheless parents who I'm not completely familiar with and thus it got a little lonely, having to pay a TOLL every time I entered the freeway in Dallas and multiple other times on the freeway, and worst of all -- the weather was extremely cold and WINDY the first 3 days, then warm and WINDY the rest. The tournament itself was extremely well run and it was so cool to watch international and other teams and games being played at such a high level.

Yes, I know!! You are all in tears for me, poorrr Quincey, I had such a tough, lonely time - getting a whole week all to myself with only Trentin, having nothing on my plate to do except watch soccer, lay in a clean hotel room, go jogging in a nice area, enjoy good food, no work to do, and go shop in some malls -- waa, waa, waa. You would like to send me a ba ba and a binky!!! Leave me alone, okay!!! Let me wallow in my self-pity, pleeassse. I'm a home body at heart, I guess. . . ., no more sleep overs with the other kids 'cause I guess I CAN'T take being away from my boring, loud, messy house for too long!!

. . . BY Friday night, I closed my eyes, listened to the wind, and began clicking my heels together, and repeating, "There's No Place Like Home." Then I, Dorothy Atkin, grabbed my blanky and went to sleep!!!

Atkin Updates!!

2009-04-01T18:12:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while -- life has been very busy with the Atkin's . . . as usual!

We just got back from Vegas where Trey and Trentin both participated in a soccer tournament with their teams. Neither team won their age group -- but Trentin's team made the finals of the ~~sucky~~ 3rd division, and lost 1-0 (by PK) to actually a pretty decent team. Trentin played quite well -- he's trying out a new position -- forward -- which he's pretty happy about. Trey was a crack up!! He played like an animal and did awesome!! I was sooo proud of both boys, they both played every game with a LOT of heart, that's what I care about . . . . although winning is also nice every once in a while!!

Trentin just got his report card -- he made it back on the honor roll. Notice I said "HE" -- yep, he actually took most of the responsiblity, and did very well overall.

Trey just let us know last know last night at 7:30pm, that a 500 word book report was due the NEXT day!!! Unfortunately, it had to be hand written, and couldn't be typed --- otherwise, I woulda' just typed it for him myself and sent him to bed! But, after a huge melt down, Trey got focused, and we got it done. Yay, Trey.

Troy and I have been both SOOOOO busy with work, and all the other family and life responsibilities, it's just been crazy. I feel like I'm treading water, and keep going under, but trying to pop back up . .. so much to do.

Trentin and I are leaving for Dallas, Texas on Saturday for a week!!! Trentin has been asked to guest play with another soccer team that is going to a very prestigious national tournament, called the Dallas Cup. It's a week long affair b/c there are international teams and games to watch all week in addition to the tournament. I can hardly wait!!! As a result, Troy and Trey will get some father-son ~~fighting~~ bonding time!! I actually think they'll enjoy their time together -- Trey is awesome 1 on 1. Anyway, I will be bringing my camera and computer -- so I'll post pictures from the tournament.

Mid-Life Foot Size Identity Crisis

2009-03-24T19:07:00.000-07:00

I am having a complete and utter IDENTITY CRISIS!!

More specifically, a FOOT size identity crisis!!

It's all your fault RITA!!! Last summer, my dear running mentor, Rita, suggested I get fitted for proper running shoes to avoid further problems with shin splints. Indeed, the SHIN SPLINTS went away, almost immediately, with the new shoes. However, I was NOT expecting the life DILEMMA which ensued.

When getting my foot measured for a new running shoe -- the woman measuring my foot had the AUDACITY to try to tell me one foot was a size 8!!

I have been a size 7 1/2 ALL MY adult life!

However, since both she and Rita had said you should go up a 1/2 size anyway, to provide more comfort when running, I decided to ignore the foot size issue for the time being, and get the size 8 running shoe as was suggested. (The 8's have been super, by they way, for running, and very comfortable.)

SO HERE'S the dilemma. I went to go purchase this cute pair of Adidas Hi-Tops (see pic below) this past weekend. Okay -- so MAYBE its not only a foot size identity crisis I'm having, c'mon though, there's nothing wrong with a 38 yr old soccer mom wearing these!!! Trouble was, when the salesperson brought out a 7.5 and an 8, I COULD HONESTLY NOT DECIDE WHICH SIZE TO BUY.

I literally sat there for about 15-20 min trying to decide . . . maybe I'm a 7.5, maybe I'm an 8, 7.5, 8, 7.5, 8, 7.5, 8. I was ALMOST IN TEARS. I finally just made the poor saleperson just decide for me!!! He picked size 8, JUST TO BE SAFE and give me extra room if needed!!!

I've ALWAYS been a 7.5 --- now my world has changed!!!! My foot size is one part of ME that I thought I TOTALLY knew. SO IF I DON'T KNOW THAT . . . . what else is there about me I have misrepresented to myself????? (Let's just leave that thought alone for now . . . too much to think about!!)

I've only had one other experience I can relate this to. When I was in my 1st year of graduate school, we were all asked to write down and group similar personalities/students amongst ourselves. There were 3 female students (including myself). Of the other two, one had a fun but strong, opinionated personality, the other had a more conflict avoidant, people pleasing, good friend to have personality. I had ALWAYS viewed myself as the peacemaker, easy going, fun individual. Well, I was FLOORED to find out I had been grouped with the former of the 2 other women -- opinionated, a little more wild, strong, a little difficult!!!!! That was NOT me!!!

WEELLLL, over the years, however, I have really come to see, embrace, and love that personality of mine that everyone else saw (except apparently me at the time)!!!

So here's the current questions I have:

A) Have my expectations about what a GOOD FIT FEELS LIKE changed???? (i.e., I'm now used to running, often have sore feet, and appreciate a little more room in my shoes.)

B) Have my feet expanded a little as a result of excessive running? (My friend, Rita, says this can happen?)

C) Have I always had one foot 1/2 size larger (i.e., size 8), and I didn't know it, and have just gotten used to size 7.5's??

D) Have my feet grown just a tudge (like that word?? I don't think its a word) over the years with age, like our noses and ears??? And subsequently I've moved a little closer to an 8??

OR, E) DOES IT REALLY MATTER????? If my feet HAVE changed sizes or if my expectations HAVE changed, the consequences are still the same, I suppose.

BECAUSE: 1) I am NOT getting rid of all my OLD shoes -- so I'm just going to have to deal them feeling a little tight!! and, 2) I'll just have to buy future shoes on a "SHOE" by "SHOE" basis anyway.

SO WHAT ABOUT the size 8 ADIDAS shoes I bought - you ask!!!

Well, I took them BACK! Frankly, I don't NEED the shoes (although MOST of my purchases are NOT necessity based!!) AND I just don't want to DEAL with this issue right now. It's ONE thing I CAN put off for a while!!!!

. . . and in 20 years, hopefully I will have EMBRACED and come to love my size 8 FEET just as they ARE!!!!!

And Rita, no worries, isn't that what friends are for - to gently help us hold up a mirror to ourselves and take a look - to help us see that maybe it's not as bad as we think, and we might even be better off in the long run (no pun intended)??!!

I Did It!!!

2009-03-18T21:56:00.000-07:00

Today I stopped by the Wasatch Running Store, and to my delight, they had Nike Running Skirts 50% off, all in my size!! YESSSSS!!! So I bought 3!!! One of a good thing is unfortunately never enough for me! I bought 2 black and 1 olive color.

My running mentor, Rita, was way ahead of me on this one and put me up to looking for one. I hadn't had any luck finding the skirt in my size or on sale, until TODAY!! Yes, believe it or not, I DO try to look for bargains when possible.

I hope I don't look like a complete LOSER in them, but I quite like them! Rita wanted pix, so here they are!! Don't laugh, please. I wore this tonite to work out at the gym . . . so far, so good, no one overtly or noticeably made fun of me or asked if I left my tennis racket at home!!
BTW - Rita, these pics were NOT easy to get. My normal picture taker, Trey, was in bed. So, I had to interrupt Troy from his ~~dumb~~ IMPORTANT computer tasks, to ask him to do the very STRENUOUS task of pushing down the camera button . . . the last picture of me smiling is completely forced and insincere (I almost feel guilty posting it) b/c I had just spewed a barrage of 4 letter words (you know like, "love," "cool," etc.)!!!! . . . next time, I'm waking up Trey!

"To Shave or Not to Shave? That is THE Question!"

2009-03-15T13:15:00.000-07:00

No, this is not a question I'm posing for myself or even for my daughter, since I don't have one!!!

But before reading on . . . take a moment to enjoy the photo!!! As gorgeous as our spouses are, I'm guessing most of us don't get a visual like THIS most days!!!

Actually, its regarding my son, Trentin, and it's not about whether he should shave the 4-8 little black hairs starting to proliferate on his upper lip!!!

The other day he asked if he could shave his legs. Several of his soccer buddies have been shaving their legs for over a year now!! Crazy, huh???

You see, in case you didn't know this, it is getting to be pretty common practice for many male soccer players to not only shave their legs, but most of their body hair!! It's mostly just a FAD!!

There isn't any particularly good reason for these soccer athletes to be shaving their bodies (e.g., it makes them faster, less wind resistance --- nothing to do with it!).

David Beckham has not only brought this trend from the soccer world, but it's now expanding more and more to men in general, and it's not because they are excessively effeminate.

Here's a recent news headline I saw "Men seeking Beckham effect go wild for Boyzilians" (Boyzilian -- referring to a full body shave, particularly in private areas)"!!!

Sounds kinda' dangerous if you ask me . . . a razor near men's private areas . . . I guess we women have been dealing with that all our lives though, huh?? So knock yourselves out guys, see what we ladies have had to endure and add about 5x's the amount of hair to shave. I''ll admit it, I'm enjoying a little touch of misandristic revenge!!!

I just want Trentin to understand that his hair will likely grow in darker and maybe thicker once he starts to shave (although he may not think this is a negative since he's trying to look more MANLY these days!). Troy learned that the hard way when he was in college and shaved too far down his neck and shoulders and wishes someone had told him that was NOT a good idea!!

So bottom line is -- I guess I don't mind him shaving his legs, but I would prefer he not shave his arms (so he won't have dark, hairy arms if he doesn't have them already), and since he really doesn't have hair anywhere else THAT I CAN SEE (OR WANT TO SEE), I suppose the rest is UP to him. I told him, if he's going to do it, come talk to me so he doesn't rip up his legs with a razor.

Don't you ladies all remember the first times you started shaving your legs??? I still think I have several scars on my legs from teen shaving -- and trying to STOP the bleeding on a CUT leg -- ohh, so painful!

. . . I guess I just never really thought I'd have to have a leg "shaving" discussion with my boys - I thought it would be the upper lip and that's Troy's area of expertise!! (Troy tried to tell him to use NAIR for legs -- ewww, gross . . . BIG MESS and MISTAKE -- don't you ladies agree -- Nair is a disaster??) Stick to the face shaving discussions Troy!!!

. . . I suppose there are worse things for Trentin to want to do, and I'm glad he's talking to me about it!!

I'd love to hear YOUR thoughts on this!!

. . . Oh yeah, and truth be told, maybe I just blogged about this so I could have a kind of legitimate reason to share the HOT picture of DAVID BECKHAM with you all!!!

P.S. - I do think I will blog about ladies shaving in the future and how MUCH to shave your bodies. . . !!!! So be thinkin' about THAT one women readers!!

Facebook and Status Updates!

2009-03-15T12:07:00.000-07:00

I would like to be updating my blog more frequently, but feel like I don't always have anything particularly interesting to blog about (I'm not as creative and linguistically talented as some of you seasoned bloggers out there), and of course the time it takes to blog when I'm on the run often. As a result, sometimes I find it's just easier to post a "status update" on facebook! So I thought I post of few of my recent "status updates" from the past week -- even though some of you may have already read them . . .

STATUS UPDATES:
QUINCEY is trying to decide what to do with my day, the sun is shining, I'm done running. . . so many options . . . shopping sounds GREAT!!

QUINCEY is surprised to see a wanted drug lord on Forbes billionaire list . . . FINALLY they include a rich dishonest criminal who actually WORKS HARD for their money!!

QUINCEY says every great guy still has a little jackass in them but I've yet to see any greatness in most jackasses I've met!!

QUINCEY is FINALLY finished completing a long, tedious health insurance re-credentialing application . . . 4 hours . . applying to the FBI would have been easier . . .

QUINCEY needs to go run . . . literally.

QUINCEY is considering listening to Christmas music for the early morning commute to work tomorrow . . .

QUINCEY is making dinner for the first time this year . . . maybe I'll beat my record of 3 homemade meals last year . . yes, I know . . .homemaker of the year!!

QUINCEY says, "Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement" .. or maybe that was the poster I saw on the mortgage company's wall that just filed for bankruptcy!

QUINCEY is crackin' down on crime . . I'm removing my CC# from our X-BoxLive account to prevent further unauthorized "points" purchases (as in $66 worth) by my 9yrold!

QUINCEY found a favorite new pair of jeans (Genetic Denim) at Nordstrom . . . until next week anyway!!

Where Does All My Time Go????

2009-03-08T20:53:00.000-07:00

So as we LOST an hour today, I began thinking about time and how it seems to warp -- sometimes moving so slowly, others times just flying by. The latter has been the more typical scenario in my life.

I've been feeling very stressed and frustrated lately. I really want to accomplish more at home, and have work things I need to get done. I set aspirational daily goals that just don't seem to get done week after week.

I feel so guilty that I don't accomplish more in a day, don't clean deeply more regularly, and don't often cook homecooked meals (although I actually cooked a meal TODAY - 1 down, 3 more to reach my yearly goal!!).

Unfortunately, by the time 10 pm rolls around, and I do have a little personal time, I'm mentally and physically exhausted and subsequently completely unproductive!! I then spend time on facebook, blogging, the computer, and TV, and often don't fall asleep before 1am. I used to read books more, but I have ZERO concentration now. Troy tells me I have developed a case of ADHD in my late adult years!!! Maybe it's finally rubbed off on me after living with 3 ADHD males in my family -- who woulda' thunk - ADHD is CONTAGIOUS???!!

Anyway, as I gazed over my calendar for the week, it occured to me, "THAT is why I don't get much extra done in the week!!!" I know, not rocket science, but for some reason it just finally sunk in today.

So, I thought I'd copy and paste our weekly calendar to give you an inkling of our family's weekly activities. You would think that winter would be a more mellow time for families in sports -- not us. The week listed below is a pretty accurate snapshot of what we've been up to all winter. We stay busy year round. Some may think we go a little overboard on soccer -- and I'd probably agree with them!! But we REALLY love it - it brings our family together, and has been the vehicle for SOOO many great life lessons and the development of character and self-esteem for my boys. Also, with 2 ADHD boys, I've learned that inactivity equals disaster.

So this is our schedule for this week. I work from 7:30a-4:30pm on most days, Mon-Thurs, and drive 1/2 hour each way to and from work -- so add an hour. Troy gets the kids ready and takes them to school and usually works until 4-5pm -- but leaves as needed to help with kids appts as do I (but he has a little more flexibility). You also need to include at least 1-3 hrs of homework time we have to squeeze in each day -- mainly for Trentin (Trey's learned to get his done at school so he doesn't have to bring it home!)

ATKIN WEEK AT A GLANCE
Mon, Mar 9
4:00-4:45pm - Trentin Taylorsville Futsal
6:00-8pm - Inter FC Club Training At U Fieldhouse (Trey/Trentin)

Tue, Mar 10
4:00-6pm - Trentin Outdoor Training
7:00pm - Trentin Young Mens

eve - (Quincey Running - 6+ miles)

Wed, Mar 11

4:30-6pm - Trentin training with Justus
eve - (Quincey Running - 6+ miles)

Thu, Mar 12
4:00pm - Trentin Dr's Appt
4:30-6pm - Trey Training with Jonny
6:45-7:30pm - Trey Scouts

Fri, Mar 13

9:00am - Quincey/Camille Running (7 miles)

am - [Quincey cleaning (right!), errands (maybe!), shopping (likely)!!!]

4:00pm - Trey - Taylorsville Playoffs
4:00-5:30 - Trentin Practice with Justus

6:00-8pm - Trentin Practice at the Med

Sat, Mar 14
12:00-1:30pm - Trentin ODP
(Quincey Big Run - 10 miles)

(Troy/Quincey Date night -- maybe!!!)

Sun, Mar 15

TBD Time - Hispanic Soccer League - trentin/trey

1:oo-4 pm - Church

So I guess here are my options:

a) Set more reasonably daily personal goals, given the family weekly schedule

b) Cut down the number of events your family is doing with soccer

c) Quit trying to have additional daily personal goals

d) Keep trying to squeeze a few more tasks in your day when you can

e) Just do the best I can, accept that I have a lot on my plate, keep trying, and try not to get so frustrated about it.

And the answers for me are: A), D), E) . . . I likely won't reduce how much we're doing by a whole lot, and I won't give up on trying to accomplish things. I just need to not get so frustrated when I don't get everything done I'd like. I also need to occasionally try to get some sleep (I know, it's a building block of good mental health) and occasionally skip a FEW of the unimportant activities in the week.

I guess IT'S ALL ABOUT BALANCE - in your expectations, self-care, priorites, and activites -- or at least a little bit of BALANCE!!!

. . . that sounds like something a psychologist might say!

. . . . easier said than done!

Makin' A Nike Run!!!!

2009-02-28T21:10:00.000-08:00

You know what they say about big feet . . . big shoes!!!!

Trentin had soccer practice up in Park City today so we stopped at Nike Factory Store, where Trentin and his friend Ali came stomping loudly over to see me in these humongous shoes!!! I laughed so hard, I had to get a picture of them!!!

I have been trying to hunt down a "running skirt" . . . in my size, and thought for sure Nike would have one, nope!!! My hip, cool running mentor and nicest friend (seriously) in the world, Rita, informed me that running skirts are "IN". I CAN'T believe I overlooked that one, I'm usually so on top of these things!!! I love the idea of them -- looking so feminine and classy while sweatin' your buns off, why should the tennis ladies have a corner on that market??!!

I could order one from the Nike.com, but I just can't pay full price $60 for something I'm not even sure will look alright on me and that I'll like. (Okay, something other than denim anyway!)

Thank heavens I had these 2 fun, fun boys with me, and it didn't really matter I didn't find a skirt!! Plus - I've never been much of a girly girl anyway, but I do try when I can!!! (Yes, I DOOO try mom, I don't ALWAYS wear the color black and jeans!)

YAY For Happy Endings!!!!

2009-02-22T22:57:00.000-08:00

Yayy For Slumdog -- I'm so happy this movie won Best Picture!!!! This show made me laugh, smile, cry, and I want to learn the dance at the end of the movie!!! The main characters are so endearing!

It sounds like the Academy needed to BELIEVE this year again in hope, happy endings, and love!!! I love it!! Go see this movie, you won't regret it!! FABULOUS!!

Congenial Canucks!!!

2009-02-22T13:25:00.000-08:00

Congrats Canadians!!!

A recent survey of approximately 2000 expatriates residing in 48 different countries spanning 4 continents found CANADA to be the most friendly country!!! They looked at such things as befriending locals, joining a group of some sort, and learning the language.

Although I still carry Canadian citizenship, and would love to say, "yep, that's me" - friendly Canadian, I've been in the states for 20 years now, and think I've got a little more of the American jaded, fend for yourself, busy in my own world attitude. Sorry American's, a little stereotypical, I know.

I'm considering a little roadtrip with my fellow Canadian friend, Rita, back home in May to run a 1/2 marathon in Cardston (odd, huh, a 1/2 marathon in a small Canadian town?? Not only friendly, but very fitness oriented too!!). It's been a VERY long time since I've been back there, I think my mother will have a heart attack if I actually do return for a weekend!!! Hopefully, a little CANADIAN hospitality will rub off on me, and I can pay it forward when I return home!!

I Got the Economic Beat!!

2009-02-22T10:24:00.000-08:00

Anyone see the recent article in "Time" on the Paradox of Thrift (i.e., saving individually in this time of economic crisis, is bad for the collective savings in the country)? . . . something I blogged about at the beginning of the month, and also previously blogged about a similar concept with regards to the preposterous implication that consumers should spend more money on gas/oil to help the economy after several years of being fleeced by oil companies???? Well, the TIME article came to the same conclusion I did, that frugality is wise right now - as tough as this might be for our current economy. It has its collective societal reward in the long term, but it's just going to take some time and patience for things to rebound . . .

Furthermore, I don't believe the "stimulus" package is going to do much to help our economic situation . . . how do you stop aftershocks of an earthquake????? You can't, all you can do it try to take cover and brace yourself to try to reduce the impact and damage (which I suppose the "stimulus" is trying to do . . . we'll see about that), then try to be better prepared for future earthquakes . . .

It really truly AMAZES me that a superpower like the United States, with all the brilliant minds we have in our country, has allowed ourselves to get in this economic predicament, kind of embarrassing if you ask me . . . and irresponsible . . . so much for our experiment with gov't deregulation of financial institutions that started in the Clinton era.

As responsible as my 13-yr-old son, Trentin, is, if I don't provide limits for him, he will ultimately be a 13-yr-old kid and make mistakes. Some of the very things that have made our country so desirable --competition, quest for wealth and "things", free enterprise, achieving "the American Dream" -- seem to have contributed to the perfect financial storm we are in. Unfortunately, we now risk having over-involved "parents" until trust can be regained. . . !!!

PS- . . . just some thoughts from a layperson with no background in finance or economy -- other than how to spend in a marginally thrifty way (yes, I know using "spend"and "thrift" together is an oxymoron)!!

Update - Movie

2009-02-15T16:22:00.000-08:00

We purchased "The Wrestler" today -- you know the comeback role for Mickey Rourke -- hopefully its good . . . I'll let you know!

Update: We watched this movie a few days ago. . . it was okay, Rourke did do a good job in the role, worth the $6 I paid for it, but probably not one I'd watch again.

Movie Anticipation!!!

2009-02-15T09:35:00.000-08:00

I'm so looking forward to today. My boys play in a Sunday Hisapanic League and we've discovered they sell bootlegged current movies there that so far have been very good quality. As a result. we've been able to watch "Gran Torino" (lovved this show), "Taken" (not bad, worth at least the $6 we paid for the movie), and Body of Lies (liked this one quite a bit) -- all in the comfort of our home!!! I know awful, aren't we, not supporting that cameraman you see on the "don't bootleg" ads they show you in the movie theatre before the movie begins!!

Hmmmm, I wonder which movie we will get today . . . .????

By the way, we saw Slumdog Millionaire last night in the actual movie theatre. I just looooved, looved this flick!!! I REALLLY want it to win for Best Picture. Unfortunately, it actually has a good ending -- which I'm sure will not bode well for an Academy Award since the voters seem to like sad, violent, unexpected endings. A good ending in a movie . . . isn't that unexpected these days??? I'm crossing my fingers for this show to win!

Puberty . . .

2009-02-10T21:38:00.001-08:00

. . . glad its not me. I remember those days too well!!! So relieved to have it over with . . . so uncomfortable to watch your children go through it, even though you know its a part of life. The days of naivete, liking your parents, giving hugs, talking nicely, thinking your parents know something -- seem to ebb and flow. Hang in there T -- there's lots more where that one came from and lots more fun surprises that come with puberty!!! Good thing you have a mom that is blunt and candid about some of the things to expect . . .! (Well maybe that's a good thing - and not too embarrassing!)

PS. - Notice the little black hairs on the upper lip starting to emerge . . .

Tough Day . . .

2009-02-09T19:36:00.001-08:00

Most days my job is so gratifying and rewarding, rarely do I let it get me down. Today, however, I feel a little down, "sober", contemplative, a little emotional. Although not a patient of mine, a doctor I work with informed me of a recent teen suicide. Stuff like that feels like a punch in the stomach. Life is so precious to me. I think about family members affected by this. I think, "if only this person could've seen beyond the cloud, the moment, if only . . . " They say that although a parent can move forward after the death of a child, things are really never the same. My heart goes out to the parents. Hug your kids tight. Talk to them as much as you can. Cherish moments together. Don't get lost in the daily grind. Appreciate every moment, because you just really never know what tomorrow will bring . . . that's what I am reminded of too often in my line of work.

Trey Legs!!!

2009-02-08T21:18:00.001-08:00

A mom on Trey's soccer team smiled as a scrawny kid at a soccer event ran by, and said, "Hey, he has "Trey Legs"!" I looked at her with a puzzled look, and she said, didn't you hear the story? I said, no. She proceeded to tell me how one day at soccer practice Trey was giving a kid a hard time (who had a little bit of meat on his bones) about needing to exercise a little more,

and the peer quick-wittedly replied, "At least I don't have Trey Legs!"

Unfortunately,"Trey Legs" kinda' run in the family (no pun intended!)!!

. . . . I wish I could say we are a health conscious, nutritious eating family . . . . but we are not, although we try when we can!

. . . it's mainly genetics and of course lots of running, running, and running, and fighting, fighting, and fighting (with each other)!!

Paradox of Thrift

2009-02-05T16:55:00.001-08:00

Did anyone read that recent article about the "Paradox of Thrift" and how that relates to our economy? Essentially, it's what I blogged about a while back -- gas prices being low seen as a sign of a poor economy b/c we are using less gas to save money -- and the way to help it was to buy gas (to help bail out the poor oil industry who has taken advantage of years of high prices!). Well -- same idea in a broader sense. People are being more thrifty in the country, are saving more, are paying off more debt --- which should be a good thing right???? Nope, bad for the country - b/c it affects businesses. They subsequently can't survive and have to lay off people or close their doors.

The answer "paradoxically" is to "spend money" and put it back into the economy. Unfortunately, our economy is suffering from a decade of executive greed and consumer overspending . . . and I think we are just going to have to ride it out, there are no quick answers. Being thrifty is probably wise . . .

The good news is -- I'm not very wise and I'm still doing MY part to support the economy and our country (okay my adopted country!) !!!! Shopping anyone??? :)

Parenting 101 - "Saving Face"

2009-02-03T11:49:00.000-08:00

Parenting Tip of The Day!!!
K- I promise this is a serious parenting tip -- unlike a few of my prior post "tips"!

It's very important to allow your child to "save face" every now and then.

You see, as we get older and develop more self-acceptance, we are better able to admit mistakes (okay -- not EVERYONE but in theory) because we recognize we are human and we make mistakes, and our egos can handle acknolwedging this. However, children and adolescents are still in their formative stages of ego development, and thus often have more difficulty acknowledging errors -- because they think that means admitting "I'm a bad person."

We often interpret making children take responsibility as having to actually "admit" their error, often making them describe this foible in great detail. I think at times it's quite sadistic as parents that we do this. Certain kids have the self-esteem to do this, however, many don't. In other words, we are saying (in their minds possibly -even though its not our intention), "admit to me what a piece of crap you are and give me every little or big embarrassing detail of your mistake!" Is that really necessary? Why do we feel the need to humiliate our children? If you are 99.9% confident your child did something wrong -- confront them about this -- encourage them to be accountable and apologize -- but if not, MOVE forward and say what you need to say and impart consequences you think are appropriate.

You might say something like, "I think this is what you did, I wish you wouldn't have done it b/c _______, and this is how I feel about it ___________- In the future, please _____________. However, as a result of this, you need to __________________, and I'm sorry if you don't agree or aren't happy about this." Part of the consequence, could be something like, "saying sorry and agreeing to do better," or having them have a natural or logical consequence. Remaining calm and objective -- is also a VERY important component of this. (I know -- easier said than done!!)

Besides allowing them to "save face," this approach takes much of the conflict out of parent/child relationships. You can then subsequently teach them to acknowledge their mistakes and take responsibility through your example (acknowledge mistakes to them and say sorry), by praising them when they do admit their error (e.g., "thanks for being honest with me and admitting you messed up, I know that's hard and I really appreciate it"), and by maybe having a lesser consequence when they do take accountability. Doing the actual consequence, then become the way the child helps take responsibility for their mistake.

This strategy helps take the "shame" out of "making mistakes" and lets them see we don't need to make a big deal out of the error -- that admitting the fault does not mean admitting you're a failure as a person, but simply that you made a mistake, you're sorry, and you'll try to do better.

Allowing kids to "save face" will even become more critical, especially in the teen years when teens can become so defiant and when they are really forming who they are as a person. It's kind of a way to wink at them, saying "you know you did it, and I know you did it - I'm not going to force the issue of admitting it, although I would prefer it you did, but here are your consequences, now lets just move forward."

I don't know if this makes sense and clearly, it's just MY opinion . . . after 10+ years of working with families -- and of course learning from my own defiant children!!!!

Gratitude List!!

2009-02-01T22:24:00.000-08:00

5 Things I Am Grateful For This Week!!

1. The sun shone several days this week and I was able to sit in my living room like a cat enjoying a little warmth, laying on the couch for a few moments pretending it was warm outside as well!!!

2. I had a fun time with friends on Friday for dinner. Thanks Sandy!

3. Trey and I have still been buddies this week -- the benefits of our quality time from last weekend are still lingering in our relationship!! (Troy on the other hand is still being punished!)

4. I am very grateful for my job in this vulnerable economy.

5. I am grateful for friends and family and their unexpected acts of kindness and friendship. The older I get, the more important I realize both are in my life!

Personal Finances 101: Contracts

2009-01-29T16:48:00.000-08:00

Signing Contracts: Tip of The Day

When making important purchases (e.g., turning in an old auto lease for a new lease, buying a gym membership) - don't waste time reading contract details. Briefly peruse a contract and get the "basics", then call it good, and be on your way (1 hour tops). Contract details are for the "anal retentive" types. The time you save by signing those things quickly will save you the huge HASSLE of reading through a full contract.

For example, having 2-3 days of diarrhea and a stomachache when you find out you're being asked to pay a $1090 discrepency in a car deal, is not anything to worry about, especially since the car dealership will likely realize you're the crazy sort that would drive directly to Honda headquarters to speak to a CEO directly to fix the problem. Knowing that, they'll just probably agree to pay the difference, and see, PROBLEM SOLVED. No big deal. A little diarrhea never hurt anyone!!

Or, it's not a huge deal to pay an extra $15 yearly "club maintenance fee" - even though you didn't read through the gym membership contract where it discusses your obligation to do so.

All in all - "fine details" in contracts are no big deal to pay attention to, things will usually sort themselves out on their own. Time savings and having a "hassle free" sales experience is the most important thing to consider when signing contracts.

(DISCLAIMER: There is NO research to support the efficacy of "TIPS" on this blog - use at your own discretion.)

Parenting 101: Homework Completion!

2009-01-28T15:51:00.001-08:00

Parenting Tip #1: (submitted by Troy Atkin)
When you have tried everything else to get your child to complete his/her homework, with no success, consider writing a letter to the teacher. Feel free to use any sort of scratch paper, bills, or old homework sheets to scribble your note on.

Here are a few example letters you are welcome to use as templates:

Letter #1: (Written on an Enterprise Rental Summary of Charges with jam stuck on it, scribbled hastily with a #2 Pencil.)

" Dear Math Teacher - Trey won't do his homework. He only argues. He lies about not having homework & plays XBOX 360. Please make him do extra homework everyday." Troy Atkin

Letter #2: (Written with red pencil on the back of a yellow Home Reading slip request for payment for a school book not returned.)

"Mr. Hunter, Trey will not read. He only plays video games. He should repeat 4th grade next year." Troy Atkin

Please check back next month for additional helpful Parenting Tips.

Past Blog Updates!! Trey/Quincey Weekend!

2009-01-27T12:03:00.000-08:00

Weekend with Trey - I had a FAB weekend with Trey!!! He was a GEM!!! We didn't do anything that special, just spent time together. I so enjoyed watching him play well and win 2 futsal games -- he's such a talented little guy when he wants to be!!! Last night he asked MEEE to rub his back at bedtime!! That NEVER happens!! It's always Troy -- cause he/Troy are best buds, but I squeezed into the #1 spot last night!!! HA!

Past Blog Updates!! Troy and Trentin's Vegas Trip!!

2009-01-27T11:52:00.000-08:00

Soccer tournament in Vegas -- All in all -- I think Troy had a great time being a chaperone on the boys on the soccer team, and the boys reportedly had a lot of fun! Unfortunately, they tied a game and lost 2 games. I'm having a hard time rationalizing the money spent on these trips with consistent outcomes like this one, even though I know they're fun and good to help challenge them. Trentin got a yellow card in the first game (for a late slide), and two yellows in the second game - one for backtalking the ref (its that teenage thing . . . which I'm struggling with b/c it kidnaps my good ol' T too often now) and one for grabbing a kid's arm causing him to fall (mind you it was a player who made the US national ODP team). Since 2 yellows = a red card -- Trentin had to leave the field leaving the team short a player for the remainder of the game, and he was not allowed to play the subsequent game. . . . tough life lessons, huh? But hopefully a good one. He just in my bad books for being a complainer -- it's not about who's right or wrong -- you just gotta' suck it up and play your game and by the rules or risk the consequences . . . !!! That's a lesson for your whole life, not just soccer!!

Past Blog Updates!! Beethoven's Off The Wagon!!

2009-01-27T11:48:00.000-08:00

X-Box Live Detox - I let Trey have limited use of the X-Box Live this weekend and I'm now trying to ween him off it again. He "make good deal" to "earn" time on it by juggling the soccer ball, doing homework, and reading. I'm considering my options carefully . . . didn't help that he woke up at 5 am and couldn't sleep so he started playing X-Box. Can you negotiate with a crack addict?? I'm not so sure . . . . !

Past Blog Updates!! Purse

2009-01-27T11:42:00.000-08:00

Purse - My peach of a hubby returned my handbag to the store in Vegas. Apparently my purse has a "lifetime" warranty -- so I guess you guys can bury it with me when I die!! I will either get a new one or they'll repair the stitching problem at their factory! Works for me!! . . . I'm considering naming my good 'ol gal of a purse -- since she may be a life partner!!! Any name suggestions???? And please not things like, Zippy, or Night . . . !!

The Apple Doesn't Fall Far . . .

2009-01-24T09:04:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder where my boys get their naughtiness from???? Well, I can tell you it from ain't me (okay well it mostly isn't from me)!!! I was always a "follow the rules", "don't question authority" sorta' gal. Not to say I haven't become a little more oppositional and opinionated over the years . . . !! Troy's influence, right!!!

Anyway, Troy tells many stories about his freshman year at BYU - how he and his dorm buddies at John Hall got into all sorts of mischief (many of these "tales" seemed a little implausible, and I often questionned their veracity).

One of the alleged shenanagans was jumping on President Hollands trampoline (BYU president) and relocating that trampoline from his house to a place where more people could enjoy the trampoline fun!!! Unfortunately, while trying to move the tramp to the BYU stadium, it couldn't fit through the underground tunnel, and resulted in the tramp "tacoing" -- ooops!

Well, I finally have what appears to be picture proof of this tale. One of Troy's old dorm mates posted this picture on facebook, with the caption, "The John Hall boys on President Hollands trampoline . . . Provo, Utah, 1985." Troy is directly behind the boy in the hat and hawaiian shirt!!! So I guess this really must've happened!!!

. . . I'm wondering however if they have a photo of John Hall dorm buddies sneaking in to play a football game at night in the BYU stadium . . . or of the stack of BYU newspapers (The Daily Universe) with the Vegas showgirl flyers peeking out of piles of papers . . . Hmmmm . . . I can't imagine why BYU asked Troy to take a leave of absence from their college for a year!!! I suppose having someone record and publish the John Hall Chronicles for each member to take home as a keepsake didn't help . . . especially when in the hands of BYU's disciplinary board!!!

I guess "Atkin Misadventures" is an aptly titled blog name for our family . . .!! I imagine I'll have lots more future "tales" to share, given the Troy Atkin adventure gene he has generously bestowed upon our boys!!

What Happens In Vegas . . . !!

2009-01-22T22:59:00.001-08:00

Nothin' but great soccer better happen in Vegas this weekend!!!
OR ELSE!!! Trentin is attending his first "kids only" soccer tournament to Las Vegas -- as in team members only plus 4 parent chaperones. However, Troy is coming along -- I believe as a chaperone -- but I'm not completely clear!! I do know he IS driving one of the rental vans. He bought a $250 Visio plasma tv for the trip so the boys could play Playstation 3 and watch movies on the way down -- yeah right -- that will come back in one piece and not get stolen in Vegas. Good luck returning that to Costco! The TV WILL BE behind the drivers seat (not within the drivers vision), RIGHT TROY??? He likes to call it the "fun van"!!! My only supportive, motherly words of advice to Trentin about the tournament, "Don't suck!"

That leaves Trey and I on our own, which I am looking forward to . . . ahhh, a weekend of quiet, kinda'!! Not quite sure what I'll do with all my free time!! I cleaned all week, so I don't have to spend my weekend cleaning!! Troy set up XBox Live again (Trey doesn't know) so I have an incentive for good behavior. As a funny side note, Troy said when he set it back up, there was a note from one of Trey's XBox Live buddies, saying, "Trey, just wanted to let you know you won't see me on Xbox Live for a while cause I got grounded from it for 2 or 3 months!" Troy and I got a good chuckle out of that . . . I think Trey can relate to his sitch!!!

Blog Lady Reviewer!!

2009-01-20T22:37:00.000-08:00

Is that better BLR (AKA -- SKYE)???? Notice I separated each subject matter in its own post!!! Also, I'm realllly trying to be more concise, but I'm verbose and loquacious!! What can I say!!!

Final Term GPA!!!

2009-01-20T22:23:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, Trentin and I fell off the Honor Roll wagon this term - first time since starting junior high. However, we did bring the GPA up from a 1.7 to a 3.42, which is still quite respectable -- especially given our week long vacation during school days. I am working on finding balance b/t how much responsibility I bestow on him and hold him accountable for and when to intervene and help. Trentin is a hard worker and a conscientious kid, but he's also a teenager, so I'm trying to figure out how to achieve that balance. Tonite was a good fresh start. After 2 days off of school, with PLENTY of time to complete any homework, he let us know at 9pm he had an essay due tomorrow - subject matter -- his family. I reminded him the general guidelines for essay writing, and let him know I would be reading it, but said he was mostly on his own. As I went to review his essay, I was surprisingly pleased with his grammar and structure, but more so with the dead on accuracy of his family descriptions and tenderness of his thoughts about his family. So touching. I hardly changed anything in it, and just printed it out when I saw it.

Here's his concluding sentences:
"My family can have some bad times and very good times. But, when things go bad we forgive each other and come together. I hope my family knows that I love them all so much."

Guilty Admission -- But Not Pleasure!!

2009-01-20T21:42:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I really, really, dislike Tom Cruise for various reasons (e.g, making a Stepford wife out of Katie, I mean, Kate, arrogance and ignorance about psychotropics, and being an outspoken member of a cult disguised as a religion -- to name a few things). Anyway, I have boycotted his movies, or HAD, until this weekend. Troy and the boys wanted to see Valkyrie, so I caved and we saw it. Tom was a terrible actor in the movie, the others were okay. There was no effort to have German accents or language -- some had accents but I don't even think they were German. And LOOK at that RIDICULOUS picture of Tom in his puffed up uniform. HA!!! He also had a busted up eye in the movie that was sagging and looking comical until he got a patch -- I had to keep from giggling to myself because I was trying not to ruin it for everyone. Troy and I both had to contain our laughter when PATCH, I mean Tom's character, was forced to say "Heil Hitler" with his stub of an arm (hand got blown off in war). The story was actually well told - as far as being sensitive about the subject matter and keeping the movie somewhat interesting. If nothing else, it helped spawn conversation with our boys about WWII and the Holocaust, which they are both taking quite an interest in. So, PATCH, you got $30 outta' me this year -- spend it wisely!!

Weekend Update!!!

2009-01-18T21:33:00.000-08:00

Spinning Class-Just a few thoughts on "spinning." I tried this for the first time on Friday. I went into a slightly darkened room (I'm sure to create ambiance), with an instructor in his full cycling gear (kinda' humorous -- sans the helmut), elevated so we could see and hear him (he had one of those microphones on), with some new age type intrumental music to accompany our spinning, and he talked us through an imaginary bike ride, etc...... BORING, BORING, BORING -- I was dying after about 10 minutes of boredom (never mind that is was really HARD) and wondered how I would make it through another 50 min of sitting on stationary bike -imagining myself going up and down hills, through creeks, etc! I quickly hopped off, grabbed my ipod, and put some of my music in my ears to get me through - that helped ALOT. To me -- it was all just a fancy way to spice up sitting on a stationary bike spinning for 1 hour. So the question is, will I go again?ABSOLUTELY! You should've seen the women's legs who rode in front of me -- ripppppped!! I want legs like that -- so if that means boredom, a sore rear, and aching legs the next day -- I'm THERE!! I wonder where we'll be riding to next week -- maybe on the roads in France? I better bring my helmut, cause stationary or not, I'm a hazard and will find some way to wipe out!!

Friday Night Out - You can see the pictures above of us at the Sundance movie theatre (actually - it was a HS Auditorium in Park City!). We went with our friends Mitchel and Annica. The movie was alright - not bad. No movie stars to share stories about -- although I do think Mitchel kind of looks like Marc Anthony (J-Lo's spouse - what do you think?). It was actually a foreign film about two brothers in Mexico who get a chance to play soccer in the professional Mexican League in Mexico -- so it was actually a topic of interest, had some humorous moments and wasn't too long and boring. Honestly, the best part of the night was just catching up with our friends over dinner -- we hadn't seen them for a couple years, they live in Heber -- and it was really great to see them again. Troy went to college with Mitchel and they have a lot of fun, interesting college stories!!! Facebook got us all reconnected again in the last few months!!! Facebook . . . what r u gonna do, huh?!!!

Fashion Faux Pas???? - So one more quick thing to blog about. I think I may have been a little too overconfident in my fashion assisting proficiency. Our friend, Mitchel, told us he hated denim b/c he can never find anything to fit his waist, and he also doesn't like to look overly "hip" or immature with big bulky, obnoxiously styled jeans. Ahhhh, a challenge for me!!! He bet me a pair of jeans for myself that I couldn't find him a pair of jeans that he would like and that would fit. I quickly gobbled up that challenge -- mainly b/c I seem to think I can find ANYONE the PERFECT pair of jeans - I don't so much care about the additional incentive -- given my vast closet piles of denim - but hey I'm not complaining either!! Well, it just so happened that Troy and I were in Nordstrom the next day getting a little lunch (yes they have a cafe in Nordstrom, and yes the salad they made me was sure "little" in portion size -- but it looked pretty!!). Anyway, on our way out, I quickly perused the men's denim, and found what I thought would be the PERFECT pair of jeans for Mitchel -- they were not flashy - just a nice dark denim, with a waist that seemed to be a little more narrow than the rest of the jean, and not overly big and baggy. Plus, they're my FAVORITE JEANS on MEN --- DIESEL jeans -- so I was really hoping they would be the ticket for him!! I texted him, and he told me to buy them for him (I won't tell you the price b/c they're just plain and simple expensive -- and if you haven't heard of Diesel -- I can guarantee you the price tag will seem like a joke!!). SOOOO, I bought them and he said he'll come down from Heber this week to try them out. I've all of a sudden started to really doubt myself -- because I can usually find the perfect pair of jeans for someone if they're WITH ME, TRYING THEM ON, and trying on many different pairs -- not from just seeing them once and then guessing. I'll feel sooooo bad if he drives from Heber and they look like crap on him, or he hates them!! It's not that they can't be returned, but just a huge waste of time, and confirmation that I suck at fashion-from-afar-assisting!!! Oh well, I'll just have to cross my fingers, and hope for the best -- I'll let you know what happens!

PURSE UPDATE - So my Christmas handbag. Just wanted to note that -- I LOVE IT!!! My favorite purse - EVER!! But, guess what? I noticed the stitching on one of the front pockets started to come out. Yes, really. Over $500 -- and less than 3 weeks into it's use -- it's starting to come undone!! I knew I should have gone for a PLEATHER purse -- they never fall apart, and if they do, for the price you can throw it away and buy another one!! Luckily, Troy is going to Vegas this weekend to chaperone Trentin's soccer team, and the store we bought it from will take it, and either fix it, or order me a new one . . . . I'm so bummed . . . burst my bubble about buying quality!!! Actually, if you look at the purse -- it's so nicely made, its very surprising there's a problem. So, hopefully, they can fix it - or get me a new one this weekend!!!

I Got Nothing . . .

2009-01-15T19:03:00.000-08:00

I wish I has something interesting to blog about this week, not that prior blogs are that particularly interesting. But I have blogger's block . . . anyone have anything for me???

I've been doing a lot of 8th grade homework this week (we're up from a 1.7 GPA to a 3.1 so my efforts are paying off!!), trying to acclimate to being back at work, and trying to build motivation to get my big stack of folded clothes in my room put away. Oh yeah, we still have our artificial tree up, so there's another thing I need to do. But I'm tired. I've been trying to get to the gym and run, but was struggling with a lingering illness from Christmas. Every early morning to work these past two weeks, I keep thinking, "Boy I hate being a responsible adult . . . " but then drag myself out of bed and get to work. I'm trying a spinning class tomorrow morning (I think you ride a stationary bike with an instructor) with a friend - and I'm worried it will KICK my REAR. I have a long list of things I SHOULD get done this weekend . . . Troy and I are going with some friends we haven't seen in a long time to a Sundance film tomorrow in Park City. Our friends had extra tickets and invited us. If nothing else, Troy and I could use a night out together, we rarely take time for just the two of us with all the running around we do with our kids and soccer, so I'm looking forward to it. Well, I just finished listening Trey doing his reading, and I need to go make sure Trentin is ready for his Math test tomorrow.

. . . guess I did have something to blog about after all.

X-Box Live Detox!!

2009-01-11T21:14:00.000-08:00

Troy and I had to do an intervention last night!

Trey met criteria for X-Box Live Dependence:

- increased need to play more X-Box Live to get the same desired psychological effect (has to be playing if he is at home or is angry/irritable, would play ALL day long if possible - and has on some weekends);

- signs of withdrawal when not playing (can't stop thinking about it or talking about it, irritability, his eyes are actually bloodshot from staring at the tv for so long)

- continued playing despite negative effects in functioning and relationships (won't play with friends, doesn't want to play futsal/soccer, doesn't want to interact with family, etc)

The final straw last night was when he heard him swear to other "X-Box Live Friends". There have been many other red flags and need for intervention prior to this -- but to be completely honest -- its been nice not having he and his brother fight incessantly (since Trentin's not into XBox Live) and its been nice having something to keep him entertained (he's kind of a high maintenance kid and doesn't have any neighborhood friends his age).

. . . So clearly, we take complete responsiblity for letting it get this bad. Now, NO X-Box Live, and only limited and EARNED time on the X-Box 360.

I think we're back on track. And frankly, although Trey was very, very upset last night, and very embarrassed and humiliated he was caught swearing -- he was HAPPY as a clam today. . . almost relieved that someone stepped in to help him when he couldn't help himself.

This week, we're looking into taking him to XA (XBox Live Anonymous) -- but I'm not sure if there's a group for kids under 18!! Or maybe Troy and I could go to an X-ANON group (for families of X-Box Live Addicted individuals)!!!

Laughter, The Best Medicine!!

2009-01-09T21:52:00.001-08:00

Troy lookin' like a tough guy in his cool laser tag goggles!!

Troy being funny -- pretending he wants to stab me !! You ARE PRETENDING right, Troy?????

Lawyers are leaving their mark everywhere. Today I went to the aquarium and saw a sign that read: "Alleged Killer Whale."Submitted by Gregg Siegel (from Readers Digest)

Do you remember the Reader's Digest section titled, "Laughter, The Best Medicine." Does this little magazine even exist anymore??? (Actually, it does, I looked). I remember as a kid sitting in my grandma's house picking up her RD to read that specific section only, I loved it, and often thought about what "humorous story" I would want to submit to see if it would get published in the mag. Unfortunately, I had limited content from the "Gladstone Family Days" that would probably be appropriate or interesting enough to get accepted (can you feel the sarcasm?)! So thanks to modern technology and information sharing, I get to publish daily Reader's Digest stories from my life -- sorry - I don't have the greatest editor!!

Anyway, I was thinking how important humor is in our lives -- to be able to laugh, laugh at ourselves, laugh with others, and see the humor in life and people. Researchers suggest that laughter: reduces stress hormones (e.g., cortisol) and increases health-promoting hormones which helps improve immune systems and our mood in general; helps with healthy blood flow and more oxygen to brain and body; reduces blood sugar levels; and, improves sleep and relaxation. Unfortunately, the clear scientific evidence for laughter being directly linked to better physical health is a little questionable - with the most evidence being related to laughter helping reduce physical pain.

However, the mental health benefits seem clear. As a psychologist, one of the things I focus on specifically is the way people "think" about their environment -- since one's "perspective" of their world directly affects how they feel. Bottom line -- those who have a more positive outlook, have a sense of humor, accept what they can't change and focus on changing what they can, and have a good support system (i.e., including people with whom they can "laugh"), seem to be happier in general. Obviously, things like having good self-esteem, a sense of purpose, and good physical health are important as well --- but HUMOR and LAUGHTER sure go a long way to helping buffer life's stressors.

One of the things that helps our family through tough moments is the ability to laugh with each other (at some point!). As frustrated as I may get every day with the antics of my spouse and two boys, I can truly say we all usually have one good laugh every day -- whether its related to some tv show we are watching or our life that is the reality Atkin tv show. I think its great for marriages as well -- a couple that laughs together stays together (I actually think there is research to support that statement). As grouchy as Troy can be at times -- his sense of humor is incredibly smart, quick, and witty, and we often have a great laugh with each other at times when we both really need it!

When was the last time you had a good "belly" laugh, a "one pee drop" laugh (I think that's from Chris Rock), or laughed so hard tears were rolling down your cheeks?? I would love to hear your stories.

The last DEEP BELLY LAUGH I had was at our New Year's Eve Party - I think I laughed for 20+ minutes straight, and my stomache literally ACHED so bad it hurt. It was one of those "you had to be there" moments (otherwise I'd share it)- nothing bad or secret - but just truly funny, especially with my partner-in-crime, Troy, and his commentating and humorous outlook on situations! But, thanks Hussein for the comedy --- you were SO MUCH FUN, we were laughing with you, and maybe Troy, the "stuck-up" American guy, will take you up on your dare one of these days!!

Lately, I've been finding humor in creating a Facebook page for my Shih-Tzu dog, Mya Atkin-- and trying to get facebook friends, and then torturing them with my stupid humor pretending to be a dog!! Those are my REAL friends -- the ones that will tolerate me doing that for my own amusement!!! (PS -- she would LOVE more friends -- if you want to request her friendship on Facebook!!)

Besides Troy and my children, "The Office," "Scrubs," and observing those around me, I often really just laugh at myself. The same day I poked fun at the "Pseudo-Weight Lifter" on my blog -- I had to smile at the irony as I realized I probably appeared to be a "Pseudo-Runner!"

While jogging that day and watching weight-lifter man, I noticed my knees were starting to hurt, and thought maybe my shoes were starting to wear out. Problem was, when I went to the running store to have a woman look at them and give me her opinion, "she said, wow, these are in great condition, and have very little sign of wear and tear . . . and it looks like you bought them in November!!!" She gave me this look like, "Do you REALLY JOG -- cause these shoes sure show no sign of it, and you JUST BOUGHT THEM you dummy!!" I tried to backpeddle a little so I didn't look like a complete imposter and said, "well I've mainly just been running on the treadmill" . . . hmmm . . . don't think she bought it and she probably blogged that day about someone who pretended to be Shalane Flanagan (I had to look up a famous female runner since I have no clue)!!!

A parting challenge -- find some way to have a WEEKLY belly laugh and a daily laugh . . . it'll help your mood and quality of life, even if the physical health impact may not be immediately apparent!!!

I Spoke Too Soon!!

2009-01-07T23:30:00.000-08:00

Just when I thought we were doing well so far this new year, that is, NO broken house items, Trentin had a little mishap tonite. He was practicing juggling the soccer ball -- when it accidentally hit a Scentsy warmer and broke the small ceramic dish that sits on top!! Fortunately, the warmer was not plugged in, and thus no liquid wax everywhere -- whew! I don't have a picture of it, since Troy accidentally already threw it in the garbage, that's why I have a generic Scentsy warmer picture. Funny thing is, most of these smaller incidents don't phase me at this point (however, hot wax everywhere might have created a little ire in me!).

. . . I guess I should probably hold off on the carpet skates, since my kids and my house are already getting enough of a workout!!!

By the way, he juggled the ball 198 times w/o it dropping -- not bad -- if you consider the confined space he was practicing in -- the hallway.

Fun Slides for Beethoven???

2009-01-06T23:17:00.000-08:00

Here's what Trey is BEGGING me to buy him --- "Fun Slides" aka carpet skates! Hmmmm, let me think how long it took me to answer that request with an immediate emphatic HECK NO (except I didn't say heck!)!!! The Atkin boys with carpet slides???? . . . I'm sure NOTHING would go wrong if I purchased them for the boys. Let's see - I guess we are into 2009 so no broken glass or bones have occurred yet this year -- maybe I should reconsider.

" amazing carpet skates that let you zoom across any carpeted room . . . not only are fun slides great fun, but they help kids get exercise when they can't go outside!"

. . . I'm sure "zooming" across a carpeted room (or stairs as my boys would immediately use them for) would be a safe and fantastic form of exercise!!

What do you think????

I Think I Saw Ahhnold Today!!!

2009-01-05T21:48:00.000-08:00

You may not appreciate the humor in this post, but I just couldn't quit smiling about it during the day so I thought I'd share. So -- I actually don't go back to work until tomorrow, and subsequently willed myself to the gym this morning. I was worried I had fallen off the work-out wagon, b/c I've been so sick lately I didn't really think I'd make it back in for a while.

Anywho -- while running on the treadmill and nerdily lip-syncing "Bye Bye Bye" to myself and contemplating doing the NSYNC hand move that goes with "bye bye bye", I noticed a man in about his 30's, slightly darker skin with a European look, slender build, wearing a "muscle tee", and had in essence a chin length "bowl cut" with slightly wavy brown hair, and a somewhat delicate but nice-looking face (perhaps even model material in his mind).

Several things struck me as odd -- he was wearing a muscle tee (he had okay muscles - but not a whole lot more than most guys who have hit puberty and who likely flex to themselves daily might have - and certainly -- nothing really to show off), he had one of those weight-lifting belts on over his tee (something I rarely see even the serious weight-lifters wearing -- at least overtly), and finally, for the first 20 mins, he stared at himself in the mirror and swung his arms forward/backward as though he was warming them up (a technique I really haven't seen many weightlifters do for warm-up - but what do I know). I then noticed he went and got some stranger to spot him for some bench presses with 2 free weights. Problem was -- the free weights honestly looked like they were each 40lbs -- they were Arnold Schwartzenegger HUGE. I mean -- honestly -- Trentin or myself would have a better chance at lifting those MONSTER weights than this guy.

So I watched with bated breath as Skinny Italian-looking Model Minny proceeded to strain to lift them on his lap, then layed down (with a spotter behind his head), and used his little mighty strength to BARELY get them over his head -- but his little man muscles quickly gave way and he dropped them both -- one landing slightly on his head then chest then THUMPING loudly to the ground!! It WAS A SPECTACLE!!! I started quietly giggling to myself because it was SOOO humorous -- in my mind I gave him the big L hand sign for LOSER! (See I KNOW I'm a NERD and proud of it-- I'm not sure he knows however -- and I would hate to burst his bubble - especially given his entertainment value!!)

He quickly brushed off his pride, thanked the guy, then stared at himself in the mirror for another 10 mins before grabbing what looked like two 30lb weights. "Wow," I thought, "this guy is one determined man -- he's gonna do it, I KNOW he can." The excitement was palpable for me -- what's gonna happen next??? I was really starting to root for him!! This time, he sat at a about a 120 degree angle on the press bench -- used BOTH hands for one weight at a time to sit them on his lap --- then blew out every blood vessel in his head/face and managed TWO sets of EIGHT reps (barely moving them however above his head, but I was giving him the BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT b/c I wanted him to succeed).

Finally, after quickly letting those drop and bounce to the ground -- he grabbed what looked to be two 8 lb weights (now THAT'S MY SPEED!). He did 2 sets of about 8 reps again, then CALLED IT A DAY - quite the workout - 4 sets in 45 minutes -- niiccee!!! I could then see him chatting with a few nearby strangers on his way out (they had also been clearly enjoying the show) - THEN --- POOOF -- my Arnold-look-alike was GONE. Just like that . . . and I didn't even get to thank him for helping my workout go by so fast and so enjoyably!

So if you're out there -- "Thank you Strange Model/Muscular-In-Your-Mind Minny Man . . . hopefully you iced your face when you got home!!"

XENU MORON!!!

2009-01-04T17:28:00.001-08:00

"HAIL LORD OF XENU - MY BRAIN IS A VACUOUS RECEPTACLE -- AWAITING YOUR PREPOSTEROUS -- I MEAN TRANSCENDENTAL TEACHINGS!"

Sorry - I just couldn't resist blogging about this . . . please read the news article below:

"TOM CRUISE SAYS SCIENTOLOGY HELPED HIM OVERCOME DYSLEXIA"

"MADRID (AFP) – US actor Tom Cruise, one of Scientology's best-known adherents, overcame the effects of his dyslexia thanks to the church's teachings, he said in an interview published on Sunday.
He told "XL Semanal," the weekly magazine supplement of daily Spanish newspaper ABC, that at the age of seven he was diagnosed as having the language-based learning disability that can include problems in reading, spelling, writing and pronouncing words.
"I asked myself if I was normal or an idiot. I would try to concentrate but I felt anxiety, frustration, boredom. When I graduated from high school in 1980 I was functionally illiterate," he said.
"Nobody gave me a solution and I wanted to know why the system had failed. Finally, as an adult I learned to read perfectly through the method of (Scientology's late founder) L. Ron Hubbard," the 46-year-old added.
The Church of Scientology, founded in 1954 in the United States by Hubbard, a science-fiction writer, teaches that technology can expand the mind and help solve problems.
Cruise's advocacy of Scientology, which has some 10 million members around the world, has sometimes landed him in hot water in the past.
German authorities were initially reluctant to allow the makers of Cruise's latest movie "Valkyrie" -- about a plot to kill Adolf Hitler -- at German military sites because the actor is a Scientologist.
The German government does not recognize Scientology as a church. It argues the organization masquerades as a religion to make money, a charge Scientology leaders reject."

My response to Mr. Cruise -

"NO YOU'RE ABSOLUTELY NOT NORMAL, YOU ARE AN IDIOT - A LUNATIC IN FACT!"

- and it has NOTHING to do with you being dyslexic (and ADHD in my armchair psychological opinion).

Let me guess how they taught you to read Mr. Cruise -- after an "auditing" session requiring you to divulge all your life transgressions - you had to quickly learn to read to see how much you would have to pay them to keep all your SECRETS quiet or to find a good lawyer in the yellow pages!!! Or, perhaps they made little alien cartoons saying things like, "today's letter, is the letter X for Xenu."

Good heavens -- with the amount of money he has probably given them -- I HOPE they've at minimun taught him to read . . . an awefully expensive reading program I might add!!

Okay. I need to clarify a few things. Dyslexia is a specific type of "reading disability".
A learning disability, in lay persons terms, means that an individual's academic achievement in one of 3 areas (reading, writing, arithmetic) is significantly below their cognitive ability (as measured by standardized/normed tests).

Thus, very BRIGHT, SMART individuals can also have learning disabilities if their academic performance is markedly below their intellectual ability. It doesn't mean they are dumb -- it just means their learning style or the way they process certain types of academic information is below their intellectual ability.

Since dyslexia is a neurological (brain) disorder (ie., how one's brain learns/processes info) - is it somewhat hard-wired - and thus not typically "OVERCOME" or CURED (as SUGGESTED by Mr. Cruise) -- meaning the brain may never process or LEARN information in the exact same way other peoples brains w/o LD do. But this doesn't mean they can't be successful in school or in life. Unfortunately, Mr. Cruise is a good example of this if you consider success as making money and pretending to be happy!!

Individuals with learning disabilities can learn to ADAPT their style of learning, and teach their brain how to process info in a way that helps them get similar results as individuals without learning disabilities. Many successful individuals actually find jobs/occupations that help them best express their intellegence through other means that match their learning style. For others, it may just take multiple modes of learning (e.g., visual, auditory, written, etc), repetition, effective learning/study skills, a devoted caregiver or teacher, and good 'ol perserverance. Oh yeah, and some Scientology brainwashing (per Mr. Cruise!)

Just some points to ponder about Scientology:
- they have been rejected as being scientific by the APA (American Psychiatric Association),
- they have been classified as a "cult"by the APA,
- they have lost their "tax-exempt" status (b/c they are really NOT a non-profit organization) by the gov't, and
- they cater to the wealthy.

Hmmmmm . . .
- I wonder why they are aggressive and vocal against psychology and psychiatry (and related mental health diagnoses and psychotropic/psychological treatment),
- I wonder why they are so secretive, and
- I wonder why they actively disparage, harrass, and terrorize those who have "disavowed" Scientology.

I also wonder why narcissists - I mean - celebrities are so drawn to an exclusive group (Scientology) that offers its teachings only to those intellectually elevated (aka, $$$$$$, powerful) individuals who are searching for knowledge not readily available to the impoverished, simple-minded rest of the world . . .

I really shouldn't get so upset , huh, since I would clearly place Tom Cruise in the "Nutball" category -- not worth my frustration, I should really listen to my own advice . . .

Acoustic Enjoyment!!!

2009-01-03T17:25:00.000-08:00

So - as many of you can probably guess, I've had the week off, and thus the excessive blogging!! Anyway, as the week ends, I debated on blogging today about something I'm extremely disturbed about (Scientology and the possibly preventable death of 16yr-old Jett Travolta and untreated/undiagnosed Austism) and something I'm thrilled about today -- I decided for the happy blog. However, I will say that even though one person may not make a difference, I will continue to BOYCOTT any movie that John Travolta, Tom Cruise, or any Scientologist is starring in. . . Okay, good thoughts, right?

On a positive note, I have a brand new sound system in my car!!! I'm SOOOO excited. I spend an hour plus in my car many days of the week and so listening to music is how I pass the time. My factory installed Honda speakers were INCREDIBLY BAD, and had no depth or dimension to them. As a result, Troy spent the last four days, completely tearing my car apart to install new speakers, amp, and subwoofer. He did such a great job! The video I am posting doesn't really do the new speakers justice, so if you really want to hear how rockin' they are, call me up and come for a ride with me!!!

P.S., I am a COMPLETE nerd in these videos -- I didn't realize how much of a man voice I had, and please ignore the bags under my eyes and drooping eyelids -- I look so old, and I've been very sick for the last 48 hours and I finally felt good enough to get out of the house -- so don't laugh at me too hard! And why would I say we are in our "cruisin'mobile"?! I don't think I've ever used that term in my life -- I guess I won't have a shot at being a host on ET!! And why did I say "thanks Troy" in falsetto??? . . . Awesome Blossom!!

Food For Thought - Don't Be Hatin'!!! (Title Royalties to Rita!!)

2008-12-31T13:32:00.000-08:00

As a preface to this blog post -- I hope you will read it in the spirit is was written. It is not meant to be judgemental, "glib" (thanks Tom, I'll use your word), cruel, condescending, or oversimplified. It is simply a way I have purposely chosen to try to think about certain individuals (some cognitive restructuring) who otherwise might cause me great frustration - so that they are more palateable and even enjoyable. So hopefully, you will see what I'm trying to get at . . . and maybe even find some of what I say a little helpful in your own life!!!

So, I have this theory that I was sharing with my friend and I've often shared with my husband and kids. You see, there are people who I consider to be "easy marks", "easy targets", "sitting ducks" etc, that are just tooooo easy to hate or dislike. Anyone can choose to dislike these folks, cause chances are, they torque off most people they encounter! My take on these people -- it's not easy doing what they do -- it takes a lot of energy to be so annoying, irritating, judgemental, rude, mad, etc --- so I actually feel quite bad for them b/c I know its not easy being them, you know? I try to encourage my boys to be a little more discriminating with whom they dislike, don't pick the easy target that everyone hates - that's too easy, find someone who seeeems like a good person but is deceiving, dishonest, detrimental to them personally, or just someone who really should know better and has the ability to behave differently! Those are the folks to dislike -- not the other dummies that everyone hates!!

Here are a few categories that I've observed of these "easy targets" or "dummies" as I like to call them!! There's many more "categories" -- but I'll name just a few below.

The "Overly-Sanctimonious" Individual
These individuals are drawn to any religion -- be it LDS, Catholic, etc.. Everyone knows someone like this in their religion. They hold on tightly to the details of every religious rule (or their interpretation of that rule), and look down on or say disapproving things to anyone not following the "rules" of their religion to a capital T!! Really, this can't be easy for them, don't be mad at them for it, even if they are disapproving of you. WHO CARES what they think of you or disapprove -- as long as you or individuals you actually care about feel right about what you're doing. I unfortunately have a little fun with these folks sometimes, by saying or doing things that just slightly push the boundaries of what THEY feel is appropriate. I know, it's bad, but I can't help myself sometimes, I know it must make them squirm inside.

(I am not referring those truly wonderful individuals who use religion as it should be used in my opinion-- to better themselves and their lives, and follow the religious teachings closely because it makes them happier -- and are truly loving, giving, self-sacrificing individuals and great examples to others -- I am fortunate to have in-laws like this and they are LOVELY, LOVELY people whom I admire.)

The "Hater"
These individuals are sooo easy to pick out. They are the ones huffing and puffing about every little thing that goes wrong. The term "road rage" was invented by these people. I consider many of these folks to be CNS challenged (likely having ADHD ), having small frontal lobes (the part of the brain that helps one think through consequences and "puts the brakes" on your behavior), and some are just plain ANGRY for no apparent reason!! I have A LOT of fun with people like this (since I happened to be surrounded by 3 such individuals)!!! You see, both humor and avoidance helps me deal with these folks!! Whenever Troy and I buy something for Trey (be it food, clothing, games, etc), we often wonder whether we will have that item angrily thrown back at us when we give it to Trey and be told its stupid and that's NOT what he wanted or whether he will exclaim how great it is and he LOVES it!!! It's always a fun adventure!! Or, with Troy, me and the boys will often ask him to get something, and then when he returns with what we've requested, I will dare one of the boys to say they wanted something different!! We all make bets about how angry Troy will get -- then laugh when we see his face after making the new request!! We're mean, huh??? But that's how I deal with it -- or just GET AWAY as quick as possible from people I don't care about in that category.

The "Nutball"
Again --- so easy to pick these folks out of a crowd. These are the ones in the neighborhood, store, office, family that you try to deal with in an assertive or healthy way -- and they are just currrraaaazzy!! There's no HEALTHY way to communicate with them and resolve conflict with these folks -- 'cause they don't have the ego strength (you know good self-esteem to take feedback from others or resolve problems) or are just plain crazy. So what happens when you have to deal with these people, b/c you just can't avoid them always? Well, I just really try to deal with them like I would anyone else - be assertive/set limits and PRETEND they are normal (but know that I will NOT get a normal/healthy response - which is OK), and just ignore their craziness and drama and not get offended by it. Does that make sense -- there can't be drama if you don't acknowledge it as drama!!! So -- I try to be assertive when needed, ignore the crazy and not be offended by it, and stay away if possible!!

The "ULTRA-Frugal" Individual
Okay, I am NOT referring to people who are in the normal economical, provident, thrifty category. I admire those individuals and wish I could be more like that. And, as an aside, generally folks in this ultra-frugal category don't impact me much, but there are a few instances when I encounter them and need to not get frustrated with them. Let me give you a few examples. The individuals with whom you go out to eat and they leave a tiny tip (way under the expected 15-20%) or count out their portion of the bill TO THE PENNY (which can be a little time-consuming). I do understand that some of this can truly be do to a very limited income, and I am not criticizing that, but there are many who are like that who DON'T have a limited income, and it just gets a little frustrating and time-consuming to be around. If it's family (e.g., Jim G - leaving the poor waitress who was so nice to us a 82 cent tip) -- I will try to diffuse the situation and use humor to point out what a tightwad they are (e.g., "boy that waitress won't know how to spend all 82 cents you left her), or just pay the extra tip and not worry about it. The other place you may run into this individual is when you are at the grocery/clothing store. The most common circumstance for me is Walmart, when you see that individual with a STACK of clothes, and you can ALMOST always count on the person saying, "this (clothing item) was in your Clearance rack and should be (specific price they thought)" on MULTIPLE clothing items -- resulting in ME waiting a LOONG time in line b/c they have to run back and do a PRICE CHECK on every item (most of which were NOT clearance). Anyway, that's an easy fix, b/c Troy and I now know to just AVOID any lines at Walmart with people who have clothing!!! On occasion -- I am even guilty of holding up lines due to me trying to save some money (e.g., Banana Republic -- returning and rebuying clothing that have gone on sale) -- so I really try to have patience for these individuals b/c I do on occasion fall into this category -- albeit rarely!!

The "Judgemental/Rule-Bound/Rigid" Individual
This person is almost identical to the first one I discussed minus the religious component. So -- DITTO with regards to all the same issues which cause problems for them and others when encountering this person. Often -- I just wait for "life to happen" to these folks and try not to worry what they think or say. Because as much as these individuals try to keep everything in their black-and-white compartments -- life is not that easy to compartmentalize in my opinion and there are A LOT of GREY areas in this life. It's easy to judge someone until you have what I call a "SUBWAY" moment (I'll explain what this means in a later blog) -- kind of like one of Oprah's AHA moments where one gains new insight, either because a situation arises which forces you to do that, or because things come together in one's mind and it just now makes sense. But the bottom line is -- don't let these folks get to you - again they're just toooo easy to dislike 'cause what they are doing to you, they are doing to many others. Again, it's not easy to live like that -- and I feel bad for them often (even though my sympathy is neither warranted probably in their opinion, nor understood!!).

The Hypocrite
Do I really even need to explain why you shouldn't dislike the hypocrite??? I think this individual is of the ABSOLUTE EASIEST TARGETS to dislike -- because its so obvious to everyone else they are hypocrites. Don't ruin their fun or deception and feel like YOU need to be the one to BURST their hypocritical bubble, really, why would you feel the need to do that -- it won't change anything. Some folks like this actually believe their own lies and some don't but try to decieve themselves or justify their behavior. It's okay, really, its not your job to help them figure that out. AND, to their credit -- at least they're TRYING to pretend to do the RIGHT thing at times (even if its for the complete wrong reasons - e.g., just to please others or to SAVE FACE). These individuals are really just a lot of fun to watch and enjoy the show and wait for life to catch up with their lies -- especially when you know BOTH sides of that indivdual. The slighly sadistic person might even find a little humor in saying things that will let them know you're on to them, but not require them to admit their foibles . . . but I would certainly never do that!!!!

BOTTOM LINE -- Be a discriminating HATER (or better yet, try not to hate at all)!!!

Don't WASTE your anger, frustration, irritation on the EASY TARGETS!!!!

A good rule of thumb might be -- if a majority of the people around that person would respond or be affected in the same way you are -- your anger is a complete WASTE of your energy, save it for someone better - someone who should be better and has the ability, but whose behaviors (both subtle and obvious) impact your life in a negative way despite knowing they should behave differently!!!

What Is The Thing To Do If . . .

2008-12-30T23:41:00.000-08:00

What Is The Thing To Do If . . .

You break a glass panel on your parents curio cabinet while they are gone?

a) Try to carefully clean up the glass pieces.

b) Call your parents and admit wrong doing and offer to make amends somehow.

c) Promise your parents that you will discontinue playing soccer in the front room, since you and your brother have previously broken a wooden piece of a very expensive antique record player in that same room.

d) Remind your parents what idiots they are to leave two animals home (no, not Bella and Mya) unsupervised and unmedicated.

e) Call your parents and say in an ambiguous tone, "there's something wrong with the house" -- then take ten minutes to avoid clearly articulating what has actually happened.

f) Justify your actions by saying "we were trying to play calm, but we were going for a 50/50 ball and it just accidentally got knocked into the glass" (for non-soccer players, a 50/50 ball is a ball that each player has an equal chance of getting -- typically meaning that the most aggressive one will get the ball).

g) Be quietly and innocently putting together puzzles in your rooms when your parents get home - acting as though nothing is amiss.

IF you responded, e, f, or g --- again, you would get along splendidly with my boys!!!

My Best Andante Running Songs!!!

2008-12-30T15:47:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, I'm not the type of jogger that can run just for the pure joy of running sans music!! As a result, over the last 6 months, I've compiled a list of my favorite running songs through trial and error, and by figuring out how "slow" I run and using an online metronome to find music in my I-tunes library with the same beat. I run "Andante" - "slow" -- and most of these songs are anywhere between 86-92 beats/minute (mainly about 88). Yes, I know, crazy huh? But on days like today -- where I thought I would never make my 5 miles on the treadmill --- the song "Hood Figga" and "Get Used To It" got me through the last 6 minutes of my run!!!

So I thought I'd share my list with anyone who might be interested. I've looked for lists on I-Tunes and the web, and never really found one that wasn't for "serious" runners who run 60 miles/hour!! My favs are the first ones with the asterisks by them. Don't laugh as some songs seem slow, but their beat is actually in that 86-92 range!

*Got Money - T-Pain
*Get Used To It (Edited) - Ice Cube
*Say - John Mayer
*Don't Disturb This Groove - The System (current fav)
*Mad Season - Matchbox Twenty
*I Knew I Loved You - Savage Garden
*'Til I Collapse - Eminem
*Talk That $%@# (Edited) - Missy Elliot/Timbaland
*Somewhere I Belong - Linkin Park
*Rehab - Rihanna
*Miss Independent - Ne-Yo
*Too Little Too Late - JoJo
*Waterfalls - TLC
*Over It - Katherine McPhee
*The Way I Am (Edited) - Eminem
*Hood Figga' - Gorilla Zoe
*Heartless - Kanye West
*Say You Will - Kanye West

Goodbye To You - Michelle Branch
The Longest Time - Billy Joel
Dilemma - Nelly
Cobrastyle - Robyn
Shopping - BNL
If I Had $1000000 - BNL
Brian Wilson - BNL
Sunny Came Home - Shawn Colvin
It's Gonna Be Me - *NSYNC
Bye Bye Bye - *NSYNC
Cowboy Take Me Away - Dixie Chicks
Can't Turn Back The Years - Phil Collins
Warwick Avenue - Duffy
In Your Atmosphere (Live) - John Mayer
Fallin' Out of Love - Reba McEntire
Rosanna - Toto
With You - Chris Brown
I Give In - Sara Evans
Leave (Get Out) - Jo Jo
Maniac - Michael Sembello
Yellow - Coldplay
Alone - Heart
Seasons of Love - Rent
Lose Yourself - Eminem
Live Your Life - T.I. feat Rihanna
You Know What It Is - T.I.
I'll Always Love You - Taylor Dayne
Sowing The Seeds - Tears For Fears
Keep On Loving You - REO Speedwagon
Mary Jane's Last Dance - Tom Petty
Still In Love - Vanessa Williams
Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go - Wham!
Take On Me - A-Ha
Another Postcard - BNL
Hard Habit To Break - Chicago
One Call Away - Chingy
I'm Real - Ja Rule

Shopping!!

2008-12-28T23:15:00.000-08:00

Shopping - Barenaked Ladies
A preparatory song for my friend, Rita, with whom I get to go shopping with tomorrow to help her find some awesome JEANS!!! Positive vibes, Deets, we'll find some I promise!! Nothing I enjoy doing more -- helping others shop - especially for denim!!

Instant, Inexpensive Eyelid Lift!!

2008-12-28T22:21:00.001-08:00

So I have been a little self-conscious about my drooping eyelids for several years now. Anyway, the other day I was wearing one of these gel headbands I bought from Walmart - and noticed I was felt like a looked a little more youthful looking, refreshed, and rested. I realized it was the gel headband that was actually slightly pulling my hair/hairline back with it's "gel grip technology" - so as not to hurt my scalp or pull too tightly but hold the headband in place. The result, a quick slight eyelid lift!!! Not bad for $3 and no recovering time needed!! Which means I can put off that eyelid lift surgery I was planning -- for at least a few years anyway, huh???!! Trust me on this one, try it out!!

Holiday Pics!!

2008-12-26T10:20:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve dinner at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse --- best, best steak in the valley, in my opinion, my filet melted in my mouth!!

Stacey and Greg came to dinner with us. We were all well behaved (except Trey who was convinced Trentin got the better half of the steak he and Trentin shared -- which he was right about -- but we tried to convince him otherwise!)

Cute Solia -- she's a little naughty gal!! Notice my greasy face -- I don't know why it looks so greasy -- cause it didn't feel greasy!!

Trey's self-portrait -- I just love his smile!!

Trentin and Solia.

Troy and I pretending we like each other!!!

Trentin entertaining Solia!!

Cute cousins -- Trey and Tenny!!!

Skye and Stacey -- not lookin too bad for Christmas morning, and considering Skye was up til 4 am playing games with her in-laws.

Skye and Martin -- a rare shot without the babe!!! Aren't they cute too??

Overall, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day was very nice. Trey and Trent woke up a little early (5:30am) -- but we didn't let them open non-Santa gifts til we got up at 8am. We had breakfast at Stacey/Greg's house, and Troy made his famous Erik Estrada Eggs (you should get this recipe -- they're so good - eggs, cream of mushroom soup, sausage, cheddar cheese, bread crumbs combined the night before in a casserole dish, then cooked for an hour in the morn -- I think they're actually called Eggs Strada but we like our name for them better!!). Skye, Solia, and Martin joined us as well. Then, in the afternoon we visited the Lieftings for a nice afternoon light dinner -- its always fun to visit them -- we laugh a lot when we're with them. Then, finally, we went home and relaxed, and got some sleep! I was up bright and early this morning to wade though our 6-7 inches of new fallen snow, and went to work out for a few hours and burn off the Christmas fat-filled food!!! Hope you all had a great Christmas!

Quincey's 2008 "Best of . . . " and My Favorite Things List

2008-12-25T09:18:00.001-08:00

This is a cross between Oprah's "Favorite Things" list and "Best of . . ." list that I've compiled for this year! I hope you like it!

Best Athletic Apparel: Nike -- hands down.

Best Running Shoes: Saucony ProGrid Guide.
I know this is very individual for every person's foot, but this shoe completely ameliorated my probs with bad shin splints.

Best Hair Care Products/Tools:
These are the best hair products I have ever used, I love them -- they make your hair feel silky smooth -- they're expensive but if you order them online you can find some good deals.
- Shampoo: Kerastase Bain Satin Shampoo
- Conditioner: Kerastase Nutritive Masquintense Thick
- Smoothing Serum: Kerastase Serum Oleo Relax
- Hairspray: Bumble and Bumble Classic Hairspray
- Flatiron: Hai Convertable Ceramic Flat Iron

Favorite Make-Up Products:
- Face Lotion: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisterizing Lotion
- Mascara: Maybelline Great Lash Mascara
- Foundation: Clinique Superfit Makeup
- Eye Liner: Maybelline Waterproof Liquid Liner, or MAC Fluidline
- Lipstick/Eyeshadow/Concealer: MAC
- Blush: MAC Sheertone Shimmer Blush
- Lipgloss: MAC Plushglass (I love this gloss -- it makes your lips tingle!)
- Eyelash Curler: Maybelline

Best Store for Discount Designer Denim/Apparel: Nordstrom Rack

Best Business Casual Store: Banana Republic -- The best - most of my work clothes are from here. I loooove this store -- and I almost always buy clothes here on sale with coupons I get in the mail.

Best Designer Denim Selection: Chloe Lane (Park City) , Honorable Mention - Lolla Bella

Favorite Online Denim Store: http://www.revolveclothing.com/

Favorite Comfy T-shirts, Shorts, Sweatshirts, Undershirts: Abercrombie & Fitch

Best Customer Service and General Apparel/Shoes Selection: Nordstrom -- if I have a choice to buy something here or at a smaller store -- I will always buy Nordstrom b/c their return policy and customer service is exceptional in my opinion.

Favorite Sterling Silver Necklace Designer: Lois Hill - I love these pieces - handmade in Indonesia, you can get them at Nordstrom.

Favorite Denim Designer: I couldn't just pick one, so I thought I'd just list my top 5: Diesel; True Religion; Current/Elliot; William Rast; Taverniti So

Favorite Perfume Scent: Armani Code

Best Hair Salon: Lunatic Fringe on Parley's Way. They treat me well, what can I say, and I love the soda, scalp massage -- and bottom line great haircut!

Favorite Hairstylist: Andrew at Lunatic Fringe on Parley's Way. I don't even know Andrew's last name, but I've been going to him for years -- which is amazing I've stayed with him so long since I'm very, very, very picky about my hair and who cuts it!! Andrew is as OCD as I am -- so attention to detail is important to him and making sure it's the cut I want.

Favorite Song Artist This Year: Kanye West. I really don't like him personally, but I thought his last 2 Albums were great and I've downloaded a lot of his songs. Don't laugh -- but Lil' Wayne and Rihanna get my honorable mention!! Yup -- I'm a 38 yr old psychologist that loves hip-hop! I also had a major 80's revival this year (maybe it was the whole 20 yr reunion reminder) -- so you can also find lots of 80's songs on my ipod getting played a bunch this year.

Top 10 Most Played Songs on My Ipod This Year:
Don't Stop- Baby Bash
What A Fool Believes - Doobie Brothers
Say - John Mayer
Heartless - Kanye West
What U Got - Colby O'Donis
Somebody's Baby - Jackson Browne
Numb/Encore - Linkin Park
Free Fallin - John Mayer
Got Money - Lil Wayne
Disturbia - Rihanna

Favorite Jogging Song: Got Money (Lil Wayne). This song seems to keep me running when I'm really tired and the beat exactly matches my snail jogging pace!! (Honorable Mention - Get Used To It (Edited Version) - Ice Cube, Talk That *%&$ - Missy Elliot).

Favorite Walking Song: See You In My Nightmares (Kanye West). Honorable mention - Let's Groove - Earth, Wind, and Fire.

Atkin 2008 Year In Review

2008-12-21T00:15:00.001-08:00

ATKIN 2008 YEAR IN REVIEW

The Atkin year- busy, busy, busy.
That's the key to our little clan. . .
Idleness is not beneficial for our quartet,
'Cause I may just come home to kids dangling from the ceiling fan!

Troy perfected the homemade chocolate cookie and became president of Inter Futbol Club.

He also received a much deserved promotion - likely due to all his Germany travel.

Unfortunately, the Germany influence inspired him to buy a BMW (aka - Big Money Waste),
It was fun to drive until the transmission started to unravel.

Trentin managed to stay on honor roll 3 terms, while playing soccer all year long.
He was even 1 of 18 selected for the Utah ODP (Olympic Development Program) team.

He competed tenaciously in 8 out-of-state soccer tournaments,
And additionally, he's now unfortunately entered the official bailiwick of - TEEN !!!

Trey, my capricious child!! Where to start?

WWE, XBox live, $1 Army men, a daily things-to-do mental list!

Great soccer defender, student "citizen of the month" (funny but true), chatty Cathy personified.

His coup d'etat was his scooter accident, resulting in a cast for his broken left wrist.

Me - well, still "Sleepless in Sandy" - I haven't yet found a soporific antidote!

Itunes, Banana Republic, Nike.com, and Lolla Bella must think I pay them a monthly annuity!!

I started a blog, landscaped my back yard, engrossed in constant soccer activities, started getting in shape for a 1/2 marathon . . .
My obsessiveness about a variety of things will remain in perpetuity!!

Overall, the Atkin apex was our trip to Los Cabos, Mexico.
We sunned, swam, ate, played, laughed, and worked on getting a tan line.
And thanks to modern psychopharmacology,
The boys' good behavior will mean was can return again in 2009!

Yay For Trey!!

2008-12-17T17:38:00.000-08:00

The infamous Mr. Hunter!!!

Don't you love the pj's and slippers!!!

We received a note from Trey's teacher the other day titled "To the Parents of Trey Atkin", and thought, "great, now what's he done!!" I suppose we shouldn't assume the worst, but you really just never know with Trey. Anyway, Trey had been chosen as one of the students of the month for "Citizenship"!! We got a good laugh out of that!! But we'll take any positive we can from that kid. Today we got to go surprise him at their assembly (he didn't know he was getting the award). He argued about wanting to wear pajamas to school (little did we know, they were actually supposed to wear pj's to school - see Mr. Hunter's pic) -- but he reluctantly agreed to wear his regular clothes. He was very pleased to see us today and receive his award -- but insisted on staying for the rest of the day with his class -- I swear that teacher is doing something really right with that class -- Trey just loves to go to school!

On a funny note, while they were handing out the awards for each grade, they asked parents to wait and cheer at the very end, but apparently the woman in front of us didn't hear that request or didn't understand. As a result, she and her two young children took it upon themselves to cheer for every child -- staring us all down as though we were being insensitive for not applauding each child -- so funny.

Unfortunately, while one child is excelling in school, the same day I've discovered that Trentin is bombing, I mean BOMBING out. The week of missed school probably didn't help, nor did my, "lets just see how he does on his own" attitude. We checked his GPA -- a whopping 1.7 - and tears filled his eyes and he said I could ground him until his grades improve. I'm not really into that whole grounding a kid until their grades improve -- that takes too long -- and just doesn't seem reasonable to me -- I think there's better solutions that don't have to be so negative. So I took this as a learning opportunity moment -- e.g., its not the end of the world, you've been on the honor roll every term since starting Jr High, I should be helping more, you should have been more proactive when you needed it, lets just dig in and see how much we can get done and caught up before the end of the term, lets get more organized, etc.. We printed out every missing assignment and had him collect the ones he has to turn in, and will have to get each teacher's signature tomorrow. I've actually stayed up late for the past two nights doing much of his make-up work (he's been a hard working kid - I felt I needed to step in and help get it done)!! So hopefully when that gets turned it -- things will improve a little. . .

What Is The Thing To Do If . . . ?

2008-12-14T20:48:00.000-08:00

What Is The Thing To Do If . . .

. . . you accidentally drop a full roll of toilet paper in the toilet after using the bathroom?

a) quickly go tell a parent and ask for their help.
b) use something to fish it out and put it in the trash can.
c) try to flush it and hope for the best.
d) when it almost overflows, quietly leave the bathroom and shut the door hoping no one saw you.
e) when asked who dropped the toilet paper in the toilet and why there's also "crap" stuck in there (um, Trentin) - vehemently deny, then chuckle quietly to yourself when you think no one's looking.
f) when discovered it was you, pretend you didn't know you were supposed to tell anyone.

If you answered c, d, e, or f -- then you and Trey would get along fabulously!!

Latest Denim Trend - Current/Elliot Slouchy Boyfriend

2008-12-12T21:20:00.001-08:00

As many of you know -- I'm a little bit of a denim addict -- I love good denim and am always looking for that "perfect" pair of jeans. I can talk about almost any denim designer and give you the low down on many of their styles and what jeans work best for different body shapes and personal preferences. I can tell you all about inseam lengths, rises, and the quality of the cloth/denim. I can tell you the best Utah stores to buy jeans (depending on what you're looking for in terms of style/price) -- and good online places to buy denim. I often even use Utah stores to try on the specific brand, size, and style of jean I like (Chloe Lane, JMR, Lolla Bella are my favs) -- then just hunt down the best deal online b/c I know they will fit. One of these days - I may post a picture of my denim collection, but that would take too much work right now.

I tend to like low, low rise (like 6 1/2 or 7 inch inseam) jeans because I have a long torso. As a result, I was very reluctant to even try on the latest and hottest LA/Hollywood denim brand line -- Current/Elliot -- because most of the rises are 8 inches and higher (which made me cringe and think of grandma style -- nothing against grandmas - they're supposed to wear higher rise denim - but not me yet!). I had noticed that Katie Holmes was initially wearing her husband's jeans (Tom Cruise -- groooosss -- I hate him), but then I think she started wearing women's jeans with men's cuts. I was very determined not to like this new trend -- vintage, boyfriend style, high-waisted, slouchy jeans. But alas, I finally tried a pair of Current/Elliot jeans on and LOOOOVVED them. You see the high rise is supposed to slouch down on your waist -- like a guys jean -- and the pockets and rear look like a man's jean -- but they have a more women's style fit in the legs (bootcut, skinny, or boyfriend). What totally separates this jean (besides the perfect blend of man+women jean) is the japanese denim that feels like someone has worn them in for several years already. They are truly the most comfortable denim jean I have worn and I have worn a lot of different jeans -- so even though they may not be the most attractive on me, they are dang comfortable and I love the fit.

Current/Elliot just came out with their denim line this year, after years of tailoring old, comfortable worn in Levis for movie stars who wanted man's jeans that fit women. So as much as I had hoped I would resist this style -- I'm hooked . . . DANG YOU TOM CRUISE!!!

So the bottom line -- the boyfriend, ripped, worn, high-waisted but slouchy denim is here to stay -- so be prepared to see them everywhere soon and remember I gave you all a heads up!!!

See pics below of what I'm talking about -- please don't make fun of the model in the first 5 pics!!! These are the bootcut destroyed style.

I know, I know -- please don't tell me it looks like I have poopy pants -- like I said -- not the most flattering, but so comfy!!

Current/Elliot Skinny (The pair I really want)

Current/Elliot Boyfriend -- hmm- I'd have to try these on to see what I think about them . . . as far as me wearing them.

Current/Elliot Bootcut (The pair I have)

Handbag Update!!

2008-12-12T20:49:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to give you all an update on the handbag I decided upon for my Christmas present. First of all, thanks everyone for the feedback -- that was very helpful. Thankfully, I waited to check out all these purses when I was in Vegas -- because many of them looked different than I expected (e.g., size not right, style not the same as expected, etc.) and I subsequently stumbled upon a purse that I really loved, and it was on sale, which is a bonus. It's called the Lockheart Convertible in Black - there pictures don't really do the purse justice. It also has a messenger strap to wear across your chest. Trentin and Troy even gave me the stamp of approval -- my family has actually become quite fashion conscious so I trust their opinion. I will use it for the next few years and I think it will hold up really well . . . so hopefully I made the right choice and I can hardly wait to start stuffing all my junk into it!!!

Surplus at "The Atkins" (PS This Is A Joke -- Reference To Most Recent Office Episode!!)

2008-12-10T23:25:00.000-08:00

So, after returning from our Cabo vacation, I realized I have a little bit of a surplus that I have to spend before Christmas or I lose it. Or, uh, to put in 5 year old terms, its like when your parents give you $10 to start a lemonade stand, but you only use $9, but you have to spend the remaining $1 before the end of the week or your parents will keep it and only give you $9 next year??

Anyway, Trey would like me to spend it on a new game controller, Trentin would like me to spend it on a new soccer ball, Troy would like me to spend in on one bolt for his BMW (aka - Big Mound of Wasted money -- sorry Troy, just kidding lol), and I would like to put it in savings so I can earn %15 of what I put in savings -- you know, like kind of a bonus for me.

What do you all think I should do?????

If you haven't watched this "Office" episode you can click on the title above to watch it on NBC.com.

I think I'm just going to let Troy and the boys decide b/c I don't want any of them to be mad at me, and I know they probably can't agree on anything . . . so then I'll put it in savings. . . .!!

HAHAHAHA -- YEAH RIGHT --- MORE LIKE A SMALL SURPLUS OF UNUSED CREDIT ON A CREDIT CARD!!!!!!

GUESS THE WRECK??

2008-12-10T22:33:00.001-08:00

Roy Horn (of Siegfried and Roy)

Heath "The Joker" Ledger

John Lennon

Mick Jagger

ROY + JOKER + JOHN + JAGGER =======

SCARY WHEELCHAIR JOKER LENNON GLASSES LADY --- AKA LIZ "Butterfingers" TAYLOR (i.e., EVERYTHING LOOKS BAD "BUT HER" FINGERS)

OOHHH MYYY goodness --- poor busted up lady --- I actually didn't realize she was still living . . . can't people let her age gracefully without snapping photos??? Pulleasse -- do her and us all a favor and let us remember her as the beautiful Elizabeth Taylor . . . I just can't bear to see photos like this . . . Fashion tip, Liz, just because they're both black doesn't mean a cowboy hat and a fur coat go together --- although the dark shades really do wonders to tie everything together . . .and the bright red lipstick doesn't look as clownish as it first appears once you get used to it (uhh, yeah right)!!!

Final Cabo Night

2008-12-08T21:34:00.000-08:00

It's been a great vacation, we got all the sun we needed, we had awesome food, we made a few friends here, the boys got a 6/10 for good behavior (meaning there's a chance we may bring them on future vacations!!), Troy and I got a 7/10 -- okay a 6/10 for Troy (he just passed gas -- sicccck -- I love living with boys so much - can you sense the sarcasm?). Anyway, Trey was very unhappy about taking pictures tonite, but I think we have a few keepers -- dang -- its a nightmare getting family pictures. We're heading home in the morning -- don't know what weather is like in Utah, and I hope our dogs are alive (well at least 2 of the 3 dogs!!). Back to school, work, and soccer . . . !

1 Day Left!!

2008-12-07T22:13:00.001-08:00

Only 1 day left before we head home, my how time flies when you're on vacation. We've had a relatively relaxing, good time, with temps in the mid 80's and some cloudiness on some days. The boys, Troy, and I have really enjoyed ourselves. Every day has mainly consisted of getting up early to save our spots at the pool, swimming, tanning, reading (Troy only on this), ordering poolside food, working out (me and Troy some days), the kids going to the "kids center", the kids painting ceramic items, then evening dinner in town. We tried to take nice family pics tonite with us all dressed up, but I took too long to get ready and straighten my hair- and the sun had gone down by the time we got out to a specific beach we had to drive to . . . yeah, well, I was in the doooog house for a while for that one (deservedly so) . . . but I looked great in the dog house!! We're going to try again tomorrow -- this time we're going to stay here by the hotel (LIKE I SUGGESTED earlier today) at a place with lots of different photo sites and even willing staff to gladly help out (since Troy couldn't remember anyway how to put his camera on self-timer). Fortunately, the night ended well. We ate at a place called, Lucky's, in town, best Mecican food so far and not too expensive. The place is named after a dog that sits right at the door as you enter in from the street. Needless to say, Lucky wasn't soo lucky to have Trey dine at his restaurant -- Trey hardly left him alone the whole time. We may even go back tomorrow for dinner --- IFFF we can get our pictures taken. I will be ready at 4pm on the dot!!! Promise!!

Friday Cabo Pics

2008-12-05T22:25:00.001-08:00

We Made It!

2008-12-04T21:14:00.001-08:00

Travel Day: Well, we made it with few problems yesterday. Only two negatives -- Troy got his credit card eaten in an atm here - and had to call and have it cancelled, but luckily he has an ATM card in the event something like that happens. Second, our "premium" rental car is a piece of %*&$ !! Seriously, it's bad -- there's stains all on the inside of it, it runs like the engine is going to fall out, and when we drive at night there are no dash lights -- well there are if you turn off your head lights!! As a result, if Troy wants to see how fast he's going at night, he has to flip his headlights off quickly and turn them back on -- reaaall safe!

Day 1: Today was a great day!! 85 degree weather. We basically laid by the pool all day and had pool waiters bring us food, and the boys swam and played in the pool. The boys were pretty well behaved, other than the occasional nerf football that caused a splash, or Trey yelling a little too loud. Unfortunately, the good behavior thing ended while Troy and I were working out at the fitness center earlier this evening. You'ld think we could leave them alone for 1 hour. Apparently, Trey/Trentin went to the hotel store to buy a few snacks and rumor has it - Trey flipped off his shoe and it hit Trentin in the head so Trentin got mad at Trey, then Trey grabbed his shoe and slapped Trentin in the back of the leg, then Trentin punched Trey and ran out of the store, leaving Trey on the gound with only one shoe and the hotel staff helping the poor screaming young man on the ground!! That's when Trey came into the fitness room, and put Troy out of his misery by giving him an excuse to stop working out!! Anyway, the night ended well after they both sat in time out on the beds for about an hour!! We had dinner at Costco - pizza, Ceasar Salad, soda - then went to a shopping plaza to look around - and finally came back to the hotel for bed. Trentin said, "I love this place because everyone loves to do stuff for you!" I reminded him it's because we pay them - that's why they like to do stuff for us!!

The shopping plaza we visited -- we're going to a movie there tomorrow.
Trey jumping to catch a nerf football, and subsequently splashing all the people behind him -- yep we stopped that one pretty quickly!
Troy and I at the pier by the shopping plaza.
This is the back of my head, and my view all day long!!!
Trey and Trentin at the Pier by the shopping plaza.

Panic to Get Packed!!

2008-12-02T00:30:00.000-08:00

We just returned from Vegas -- where Trentin's soccer team he was guest playing on lost in the semi-finals 1-0 -- bummer . . . We just returned and now we're leaving tomorrow for Los Cabos. We're completely unprepared!!! It's going to be one of those late night hope we get everything packed and remember everything moments. I really wish I could have been more prepared, but we're just doin' the best we can. Trentin had a futsal game Monday, and Trey has one Tuesday, so not a whole lot of down time to get everything in order. I'm sure we'll pull it off. Note to self---- don't forget your passport, don't forget your passport, don't forget your green card -- Troy always remembers his and the kids. I'll try to post pics if I can down there --- we're bringing the computer so we have a link to what's happening in the States. Nothing like coming home next week, and having 14 shopping days left 'til Christmas. Good thing I'm taking a few weeks off at Christmas to recover from all my vacationing!!!

Farewell Dubya!!

2008-11-25T22:38:00.000-08:00

Awwww, poor George, I feel so bad for the poor guy!! It's been a rough last four years for him. His time as President is quickly coming to a close, so I thought I'd post a funny video clip by my fav late night talk show host - David Letterman. I loooove David! I am glad to see he's not holding back on starting the jokes about our president-elect Obama. The other night - he made a joke that Obama was unveiling the new solution to our economic crisis - and if you want to know what that is, you need to send in $1000!!! Ain't that the truth with Obama -- I can't believe how much money that man seems to have raised over the past several years!!

Anyway, here's Letterman's TOP TEN FUNNY BUSH moments! Watch it, you'll get a good chuckle!

Okay, I couldn't resist. If you have 10 mins to spare -- watch the clip below! There MUST be something wrong with me, but I had tears streaming down my face I was laughing so hard --- oooh, poor, poor guy. Here is Lettermans "BUSHISMS and PRESIDENTIAL SPEECHES"

What's Wrong With This Picture?

2008-11-24T23:33:00.000-08:00

What's Wrong With This Photo?
a) Troy has magically made half of his face disappear.
b) Troy is sleeping on a sham instead of an actual pillowcase - a big ettiquette no no.
c) Bella doesn't have quite enough room to stretch out her legs.
d) White is not a very slimming color - Bella really should've gone with all black!
e) Troy has a very peaceful, calm look on his face -- an anomaly.
f) YOU ARE SLEEPING WITH A FREAKING ANIMAL TROY -- SHE'S NOT A HUMAN BEING!

If you guessed ANY of the above -- you guessed correctly. Feel free to see if you can find anything else unusual about this photo!!

Pick A Handbag!!

2008-11-22T23:04:00.000-08:00

Sorry in advance for this post, I know it may sound materialistic and shallow. However, Troy and I have found it's just easier to tell each other what we'ld like for Christmas, because after 17 years of marriage -- we'ld rather focus our energy on trying to figure out gifts for the kids and others, and not each other. That being said, I am thinking of asking Troy to get me handbag for Christmas, but can't decide which one I want. I typically use the same purse for 1-2 years, so I have to be sure its something I will still like in years to come and can last my wear and tear. That's why I'm partial to Botkier handbags - my last two purses have been this brand and they've been great. I'd love for you all to weigh in and let me know what you think . . .

This is the Rex Satchel - per Rita's suggestion -- I like it, what do you think? I don't think it will be too wide for me -- it's only 2 inches wider than my current purse. They also have a Rex Hobo -- which I also really like.

This is my current purse -- The Trigger. I've had it for several years, and I love it, the size is perfect for me, and the compartments are great for stuffing all my junk in it!

This is the Morgan in Black. I like it, but am a little concerned that the "fringe" is a little crazy for me. Plus, I have a bad HS memory associated with someone and "fringe" -- Rita- you know what I'm talkin' about! Although, it could grow on me, who knows. . .

This is the Jackie. This one is my favorite in the pictures - classic looking, with a little edge to it -- unfortunately, I haven't actually seen this purse and held it to get a sense of whether I'd really like it. There are two things I am concerned about with this purse -- it's 3 1/2 inches wider than my purse and I'm worried it will be too big for me. Second, although I could live with the brass hardware -- I do prefer silver.

Ditto from the above purse -- as this is the Jackie - in yellow. I actually had a prior purse this color from Botkier and it was very nice (not as yellow as it seems in the picture). I would get the silver hardware like I like, but this color shows more marks, like pen marks, etc. Also, same concern about it being too wide (16 inches).

This is Morgan - but in yellow -- same issues or concerns -- a little fringe crazy, and might show too many marks.

This is the Chrystie. It is identical to my current purse in terms of specs and similar style - but obviously a little more toned down than mine. I'm worried this purse is too similar to mine and won't really feel like something new, and may not be unique enough for me.

One option I thought of was to wait until I go to Vegas, where they have a handbag store that often carries this brand-- and check them out there. But if they don't have these, I'm not sure what to do, plus we need to order it soon.

I'd love to know which one you all like! Sooo, what do you all think?

Rex Satchel

Morgan Black
Morgan Yellow
Jackie Black
Jackie Yellow
Chrystie

Your Personal Shopping Assistant!!

2008-11-21T23:00:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I LOVE TO SHOP!! Yes, I am one of those individuals helping the economy -- sacrificing for the goodness of others, helping people keep jobs by spending money!! Well not only do I love to shop for myself, but even more, I love to help other people find great outfits for themselves. I'm no Rachel Zoe, but I do enjoy that challenge of helping people find things they feel great in, no matter what their budget or body shape. I firmly believe everyone can do this once they know what looks good on their body, and they find the correct size, material, quality, and style of clothing! I don't care what anyone says, but if you look great, it helps you feel great. (I know, appearance doesn't = happiness, but I sure think it helps.) I think you also need to dress the body you have, and not wait to be a certain weight before you try to find nice fitting clothing. Anyway, one of my friends has been working out all summer, has lost over 20 lbs, and looks sensational (even though I thought she looked great before the weight loss). Anyway, she had mentioned she wanted me to take her sometime to find some new clothes to fit her new body. She said she hadn't really shopped much for for herself over the years and has a difficult time finding clothes she likes. She probably didn't think I'd take her up on this request, but I convinced her to let me take her shopping today. In four hours, we found her 5+ fully interchangeable outfits, 2 pairs of shoes (see one pair above- I LOVE these, they look great on and go with everything), a properly fitting bra (this is essential for women if you want to look great in clothes), 1 beautiful blazer (see above - this is gorgeous on her). We even found time to have a pretzel and a soda!!! Many of the things we bought were on sale, except for few key pieces. The main stores I took her to were Banana Republic and Nordstrom. Yes, I know not everyone has that sort of budget - my friend is not spendthrift and is very wise in her spending, but was making a wardrobe investment to last her for years to come. All the things we bought were quality, classic pieces that will definitely last for many years, and will not look outdated over time. Most of these pieces also give her a little room for weight gain and loss. I'm so excited for her -- I hope she enjoyed it and her new wardrobe -- sorry Al -- I'll bet you wish you hadn't gone on that trip this week!! You HAVE to send us all a picture Camille so I can post it!!

Troy/Skye/Mary -- NO posting comments about the one personal shopping instance that went wayyy bad -- it was just a moment of high Gladstone/Atkin Social Quotient . . . and FOR THE RECORD, I wasn't shopping for that individual, I was birthday shopping for Troy and needed a little help from someone with a similar height and build to help me with sizing . . . bad news . . . I mean I personally wouldn't have been offended if someone asked me to try on a pair of jeans for their spouse if he had the same build as I . . . . I guess Troy is 6"2 and over 230lbs . . . okay, okay, I see where that might not go over well with someone. . . especially a female someone. . .

Economy Ode!!

2008-11-17T22:20:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, I'm boring everyone to death trying to sort through our economic issues and make sense of it for myself. Gas in some places is now under $2 -- and experts predict prices will continue to drop for a while, and they tell us this means there is less consumer spending, meaning negative effects on the economy - and thus a sign of a poor economy.

So let me get this straight --

We have no money to spend
Because banks have no money to lend.
No money in our savings on which to depend,
Because too many cars, houses, and luxury items bought
As we've been assured it's okay to financially extend.

Now the consumer again is asked to bend.
Don't save your money by taking a bus,
Buy more things you can't afford, what's the fuss?
We need to do it for the economy's sake,
You gotta' create more jobs,
And the gov't conscience we can help placate.
Because the speculators, financial investors/markets they failed to regulate.

Big money started in tech stocks, then real estate, then oil,
Now they'll move to our dirt cheap stocks -- unless we uncover a foil.
Doubtful this will happen, so our extra spending (on things like gas) it will spoil.

Jobs lost, people fearful, our economy needs time to heal.
We need to dig deep, learn to live within our means, find a balance more real.
Hopefully, there are some lessons learned, and history will not again repeat.
But all we can do is start within our own homes, and don't accept defeat.

Trey Scores In Real Stadium, Unfortunately SL Real Do Not -- Score That Is!

2008-11-16T21:42:00.000-08:00

We attended the Western Conference MLS Finals on Saturday night, played at Real Stadium in Sandy, Utah. The Real played the New York Red Bulls, and lost the game 1-0. They had sooooo may opportunities to score, but just couldn't put the ball in the net.

Despite the disappointment of Real not winning, Trey's soccer team and our team parents were still relishing our elation from the pre-game activity! Trey's U-10 club soccer team, Inter 99, was invited to play a mini-scrimmage, 6v6 against each other, just prior to game kick off. It was so much fun for these boys. Trentin and Troy were able to also go on the field to help out, luckily, none of my boys did anything too embarrassing. In fact, Trey even scored a goal for his "blue" team, to tie the "yellow" team 1-1. The fans roared both times a goal was scored. It was unbelievable for them!! You couldn't wipe the smiles off their faces when they returned to sit with their families. It was a memorable night!

Foreign Accent Syndrome and Celebrities!!

2008-11-14T19:53:00.000-08:00

Wow, I finally figured out what must have happened to Madonna. You know how she was born and raised in the United States, but has miraculously developed a British accent since moving to England and marrying Guy Ritchie. Well -- it must be brain damage or a stroke. Apparently, there is a syndrome called Foreign Accent Syndrome (a result of a brain injury or stroke) -- you may have heard about it recently on the news. See the clip below about a woman who developed this syndrome. Then view the brief clip below of our native Michigan resident turned English Rose -- she must also have Foreign Accent Syndrome, right??