JUSTICE FAMILY

2010-05-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

Wow!!! Look at my 'manly' men. They are in the Moab region repelling. They went the first weekend in May and if ever you have struggled with your fears just view the picture of Seth(turning nine the next day) repelling down 110 foot cliff!! He did it! Chris, Dave, Tai, Derek, and Seth spent the day repelling and kayaking. How fun, adventurous and exciting. Or if you feel like my dear father-in-law you might say something like-CRAZY!!!

I am very grateful they were all safe and I love them and admire them- I do not think I could be so brave.

2010-04-20T15:04:00.000-07:00

I am posting to say how grateful I am for Spring- daffodil's are blooming in my yard, my husband is home at a reasonable hour since the IRS deadline has now come and gone, the kids ride their bikes again to school and scouts and fun things, the grass is slowly turning green, and even the windy afternoons in Emery county, remind me to be grateful for sunny days instead of those cold winter days. I am a seasonal person and enjoy them all for various reasons, but for some reason I feel very grateful for this spring 2010. Hope your bulbs are blooming for you too. ( I think "blooming where your planted" is spiritual as well as physical.)
Blooming and Grateful!

2010-04-14T21:24:00.000-07:00

Two posts in a week this is a record, but my cousin's wife-- I will call her a friend- I do really consider her more of a friend than a cousin-in-law and what exactly is a cousin -in-law (do you have such things). Anyway, she inspired me to be a better blogger and so I will share with you all...
I am not a movie goer, I am not even a movie renter, more of a can't sit down kind of a lady, feel some guilty, because at the movies I want the popcorn with the butter- extra - and I like enough to last the whole movie, it is sooo yummy. The problem is when my calorie counter on my watch says I only burned 250 calories and ran two miles it is discouraging. So maybe that is my real reason I avoid the theatre- I can't say no to that yummy popcorn?
But over Easter we went to the movies-- Chris and Beau went to Clash of the Titans----it is leading our family into a Greek mythology study--- I will let you know the grades on the reports. I went to How to Train Your Dragon with the kids. I liked it. I have always had a bit of a fascination with dragons, but truly I liked the whole premise that sometimes we try so hard as parents to mold our children into something when truly they can make their own way with the skills that have been given them. They will be awesome--- they are awesome in their own way, we do not have to all be vikings and slay things to be 'okay' or we don't all have to be a certain religion, race, political party, etc. Life is about each person establishing their own identity.

So instead of Siskel and Ebert it is Court and kids movie take.

Love chatting with you.

2010-04-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

I might officially be the worst blogger.
To all my blogger families I commit to do better, I love my family and keeping in touch with friends, it just doesn't appear like it from my lack of posts.

We are really into baseball-4 kids playing thus far and Luke signed up tonight. No Chris nor I have found new spouses to help attend each game we are doing a lot of splitting up and Recruiting everyone-even Pappa Herb. ( He continues roll his eyes at me.) Derek won tonight and did great
pitching, Tai's team won last night against Price, and Seth and Bet are on the same team- Bethany got her first 'real' hit on Saturday she is still sooooo excited. They played tonight too and did great.

I do not sing Take Me Out to the Ball Game I sing something like Home on the Range I miss my warm house on those windy nights.

2010-03-01T20:42:00.001-08:00

Okay! If you are sensitive you probably should not read any further- but I would propose that that if you are a Vet or a mother you can most certainly handle this blog--------------------

So Luke has had some difficulty with going #2, because of this he talks freely about his bodily functions. We celebrate when "it" happens and have used many a suppositories. He also knows that this problem is due to the fact that he will not under any bribe or circumstance (though we have not tried starvation) will not eat fruit or veggies. So tonight I go up to help him with his pajamas and I can smell something. I ask the obvious, "Did you go p**p?" He says, " Yes it is like this mom, when I have to go I dash and shoot and hope it goes in, sometimes I miss." I could only laugh- there was just a bit left for me on the toilet seat.

Oh... Luke.

P.S. Tai took 2nd down in Las Vegas, he did good 27/30 Free Throws, but what made me most proud was how he handled himself, no sadness, he was a true sport happy for the other boy and felt good about his performance.

2010-02-17T19:48:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my daughter-she is fantastic, she is talented, beautiful inside and out, friendly, sweet, and a smartie!!!! I can't believe she is seven. She has been such a blessing, from the day she came home our lives have not been the same. we went from an all blue-balls, balls, balls, to a pink and purple fest. Little did we know that was just the beginning, now an entire room is painted purple, dolls, barbies, dresses, hair pretties, and pink balls can be found at our residence. She not only has changed us physically but, she blesses us with a light and joy that is felt by many. How thankful I am for her.
13 13 13 need I say more, I am a mother to a teenager. I do not feel older, I still feel like I could laugh and be silly like I did as a teen , but my late night hours no longer exist. So here I am parenting a teen. He is a good boy and is genuine, I have not met someone so sincere and honest- it is scary sometimes that honesty he shares. Oh sakes, Happy Birthday to Tai! He will be spending his birthday at a hoop shoot in Las Vegas- Good luck to him he has the 'touch.'
* A cute side note, Tai found out his present early- this is how the conversation went--- "Tai is asking for a green D-Will jersey for his birthday (me talking to Kathy)."
Luke says, " Yeah! So we can't tell him we got him one huh mom?"
Tai's reply, "Thanks Luke!"

2010-01-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

Happy new Year to all the fellow bloggers!!

What a wonderful Christmas Season: family, friends, sledding, basketball, treats, gifts, treats, sore throats and oh yeah more treats. 2009 is now over and another chapter is beginning in the Justice family's Book of Remembrance.

Just to reflect on last year...

We were blessed spiritually to learn many life lessons on forgiveness, friendships, compassion, charity and most importantly LOVE.

We made it through another broken elbow (the only bones broken in our family) and still managed a wonderful football season.

Sports I can say (unless my mind is failing me) I did very little complaining about driving the family activity bus this year- my red mini van is great- we experienced Bet's Gymnastics, Tai, Dek , and Seth doing Baseball, Basketball, Swimming, and Football, still ran Flag Football and Chris coached the boys and my coaching with Bet's basketball team. FUN! Piano Lessons sometime in that mix- the boys do not refer to it as a sporting event just su'sporting" mom.

Chris and I experienced a true "getaway" in Maui!!!

Chris and I have learned to like our dog!

Seth and Bet got up on water skis.

Dek went to State in the Reflections contest.

Our" Garden of Eden" or weedin' whatever one might call it it still progressing with our new fire pit and pergola.

Oh, how thankful I am for another new year the reflections, the desires and the love to share. Thanks for sharing!!! happy New year to YOU!!

2009-11-18T07:29:00.000-08:00

Justice family update!

Halloween was fun we went up to Tim's House, had pizza, trick-or-treated with cousins, loved on Sammy, watched the Yankees, and had a super time!!
Derek had a birthday!!! He is 11!

Tai and Derek played football in the snow on Saturday at Rio Tinto. How fun. How cold. Football is great!

Seth is the process of painting the chicken coop red to 'help the chickens', how thoughtful Seth is.

Luke is Lovin' Preschool, he and Libby let me look at their work first thing when they get into the van.

Bethany is soooo close on her aerial ( a cartwheel with no hands) we are doing positive affirmations daily until the event occurs.

Most importantly we are celebrating our blessings: so many wonderful blessings from above. Thanks be given.

2009-10-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

Luke is still in the process of deciding what to be...Spider man, a Clone, Mickey Mouse, and many other ideas have popped into his head. He keeps going back to Spider man which brings me to the subject at hand. Spiders- my roommate in college Miss Tiff taught me the love for those eight legged creatures she would put them outside, not use tissue to squish them and flush them to a wet death. I have passed that onto my children. All went well until Luke read Peter Parker's story and now thinks that spiders have the ability to turn you into an actual spider with amazing powers. Hee hee. He is a huge fan. So now he examines them and decides if they are the 'right kind' whatever that means and I have had to tell them that they are helpful and kill the bad bugs and help us-----until this week we found -yep- a black widow. This is a 'bad' spider and so it was killed and put into a jar for the examination process. We have found out much and have decided it is Halloween and fun to have our dead black widow on the counter to celebrate. (Even to the distaste of Grandma Jean.) Bring on the spiders for the season and then they need to find a new home. "All creatures great and small God created them all."

Oh the webs of life-they are fun!!!!!

2009-10-05T08:26:00.000-07:00

I always say that the upcoming season is my favorite, but I so love fall that it really might be the best season. My favorite fall things are canning and seeing the shelves in the pantry filling up, pumpkins, falling leaves (colors, the crunch etc.), the crisp air, football season (watching my boys play), apples, mums, and last but not least the smells.

The smells that excite me for the season:

Apple cider

Cinnamon

Pumpkin Soup

Pumpkin Bread

Nutmeg

Jellies cooking

Crisp air outside

maple

Happy smelling to all my dear friends and I sure hope the seeds that were sown in the summer months are bringing you a great harvest!!!!!

2009-09-18T07:33:00.000-07:00

What needs straightenin' in Your life?

Well I have pondered on that the last couple weeks mostly due to Derek's new braces. He is a handsome boy with a spectacular 'tin grin.' He looks older and has been a trooper through it all, only one dose of Advil that evening to get through football practice. He is taking on the 'heavy metal' with ease. Our children are growing up.
The straightening that I have focused on is my goals and the woman I want to be for myself, my family, and the Lord. How grateful I am for the Atonement and the tender mercies that exist daily on the behalf of all mankind. If the path I trod is crocked at times or the acts I preform are; I can still hold my head up and press foreword because life is not about straight ways-just finding a way back to His loving arms. I read a poem this morning and the last line says, "Feast on your life." I have never shunned from a nice feast so today I feast on my life-life in general-keeping the things straight: my hair, the mowing lines, my parking of the van, the shoes in my closet (maybe), and my priorities.
Striving to see straight.

2009-09-08T07:52:00.000-07:00

Sunny Day Preschool
Here he comes!!!
I cannot believe my baby is going to preschool??? He looks adorable and all, but sakes.... where has the time gone. I am going to hug and kiss all of them lots to today!!!

2009-09-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

It is back to school time!!!!
I now have a child in Jr. High and I do not feel any older so go figure. Bethany started 1st grade so that equates to an all day. I do miss her but she is enjoying it-that little smartie! Dek and Seth are now in 5th and 2nd grades. Luke is anxiously awaiting preschool soon and 'his teacher' I am happy for him-though i can't help but wonder where the time is going? How fast they are growing and the changes in each of them, I enjoy seeing the changes and feel blessed to be their mother.

2009-08-23T20:56:00.000-07:00

Chris and I were able to experience a piece of "heaven on earth"- in Maui Hawaii. It was beautiful and super nice. We had a fantastic time and loved all of it -honestly I did not want to come back to the lawn mowing- I even asked Chris how he felt about flying the kids to us and staying for another week- we came home but I look forward to sharing that beauty with the kids. Life is carefree (we read one book together and a novel each, tanned/burned, snorkeled, sight-seeing, and swimming in that gorgeous ocean.) there hence the term 'beach bum' was coined. I know the pictures will not serve justice but hope you can share in some of our pleasure.

2009-08-09T21:56:00.000-07:00

Today we had the opportunity to meet the newest Justice. Charles is his name and now we can see the joy of fatherhood in Mark. As I spent the evening with our family I thought of how blessed this little guy is to have so many people who love him and care about him. I remember thinking this every time I had a child, the love was bountiful.
Love is powerful, it is a healer, it is binding, it is patient, absent of jealousy, and labels. As I spent the evening surrounded by love I could not help but feel gratitude for all the experiences of love in my life. One such experience would be at my 15 year class reunion( yes I am feeling old), these can be very awkward and uncomfortable because of the labels and the stereotypes that come from those three short years. I wanted to help my dear friends Charity and Kelli so I had minor responsibilities. I have pondered on the need for love/friendships to be reason for the reunion not to boast or carry on stereotypes from the previous years (how petty). Nonetheless it was my observation that this was achieved- due to some kindness shown by others and wonderful supportive people.
I have also felt the healing power of love from a broken heart, by a note, kind words, a visit, the act of forgiveness (being given or as the recipient) these acts of love are a sort of balm.
You mothers could relate to the love when you hold that new baby late at night and the house is quite and all that fills the air is the soft sounds of the little one and the feeling of love. You do not have to be a romantic to enjoy love (though I am one) you simply just have to be human- we all experience it in some form and how grateful I am for LOVE!

I Love....
Chris
Tai, Dek, Seth, Bet, and Luke
my parents
Chris' parents
My grandparents
Mel and her family
the entire Justice Family-the are so good to me
all of my extended family
friends- all of you- really all of you
flowers
reading
piano music-music in general
kissing
sunny days
rain
Jesus Christ
.... I just love loving it feels good

2009-07-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Happy Birthday to Lukey !!!!!!!

I can hardly believe that the little man in our family is now four!!! He is growing too fast.

My list of Luke's Delightful moments....

-He still thinks he needs to sleep with me and calls our bed his, even though we carry him up every night and read to him in his bed he thinks our bed is his too.

-He hugs hard watch out bear hugs

-He says the funniest things- " I am stronger than all the heroes huh mom." "You love me 'til you can't stand it."

- He likes to play in mud

-He pinches everyone for not wearing green (year around)

-He loves Jesus " 'cause he makes everything."

-He wants to be Santa Claus when he grows up. (Because his cheeks are so rosy and his nose is like a cherry.

-He has such bigggg muscles and he tells people see they are like my dad's.

There are many more things I am quite sure, this explains the delight in our lives for having a bright, fantastic, adventurous son like Luke.--HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO HIM!!!!

2009-06-18T19:29:00.000-07:00

When I was in high school there was a song-" I am in a Hurry to get things done, I rush and rush until life is no fun." Well I had one of those character moments this last week. It started with my run in Summer games- oh yeah ... loved it. I have not enjoyed running like that maybe never, but into the first mile yep- potty time- I was rushing that morning so much that no time to go and I did not want to go in the pants so I took a minor detour and went in the lovely Cedar mountains. So I had to really pick up the pace to make up my time- rushin' for sure. I rush and rush, also my kids are involved in all-stars, basketball and football camps, scout things, and Bet did tumbling at Summer Games (she did awesome two gold medals and one bronze!), so this week has been a rush- I haven't stopped enough to know exactly what kind of rush hee hee! Anyway life is sooo good and fun to the Justice clan that I do not think that this rushin' does not indicate life is no fun and were not not getting done the important things like the I love yous and the bedtime loves. ( I did promise Luke a bedtime story) hopefully we don't rush through it.

Good Luck to all you moms out there and I hope your summer rush is as fun as mine has been.?

***Another rush moment as been our lack of nutritious lunches- anybody out there feel mac-n-cheese is healthy because that would sure stroke my mommy ego?
What A Rush Summer gives!!! Love'n it in Emery County

2009-06-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

I received a sweet e-card and on the bottom it had a reminder of upcoming holidays ie. Father's Day. Well one such holiday that I was unaware of is tomorrow-BEST FRIEND'S DAY. So with that I must give a shout out to all my friends and a thanks for their support and love throughout the years!

Friends are unique kind of like dogs spots/freckles and all- no offense. They just love you and keep on lovin'- unlike family that is stuck with each other,( though my family are my dear friends too), friends choose each other and listen to our problems without reimbursement. They also like us when we may not look our best, for instance, once I had strep throat and two little babies and my dear friend Mindy came cleaned my house and drove me to the doctor bad breathe and all-true friend. I was taught the value of a dear friend from third grade on when I met Ang, she and I were friends through many silly stunts, boys, and grumpy times but through it all she still was loyal, not judgemental and a great friend-there are days I feel the sweetness of heaven and know that friendships are forever. Many refer to dog as man's best friend really for me it is people I like-I say that with a quick apology to Tai and his dog Belle.

One more on Best Friends mine happens to be my dear husband, he is the friend that has been through thick and thin with me this friendship started over 17 years ago and still is growing daily- I love him tons. ( This picture is too funny to not post-he was sanding our ceiling after the 'hole' experience and I could not resist.)

2009-06-01T07:36:00.000-07:00

There are two particular times during the year that I evaluate/reflecton my life and the kind of person that I want to be. One happens to be New Year's and I can honestly say that it has little to do with the resolutions it is simply after the hoopla and fun of Christmas and the kids break I want to clean my house and reflect on those fun and exciting times and I am truly excited for what the new year might bring. With that said I must now say the other-my birthday... I say it with hesitation because it scrambles my brain. I am not one of those who do not like getting older, nor am I one who dislikes presents-bring them on especially from Chris. It is a strange phenomenon it has something to do with the attention. What is wrong with me?!
Growing up my mom went all out balloons, cakes, present, parties, etc. It was the greatest day of the year. Now not so much- HELP! Every year I beg Chris to take me somewhere, he offered this year to, but I told him I want to be strong-hee hee!
I am petitioning my friends and family for their advice- why is this birth-day thing so icky to me? Am I crazy? Has the party girl in me disappeared? (She never really existed maybe that is the dilemma) I like to think of myself as a positive person so HAPPY BIRTHDAY to me and I am going to make my 34th year a great year!!!! I will make it through another birthday.

2009-05-18T07:04:00.000-07:00

Once in college I went to this fun sixties diner and on the menu was a mud pie and a volcano, they both consisted of some form of chocolate dessert seething in chocolate syrup-me not being a chocolate lover chose something else. Well mud pies and volcanoes were back on the menu Saturday night except these were not edible. The Faimalo kids-Libby and Mason along with Seth, Bethany, and Luke had fun on our dirt mound making just that mud pies and volcanoes. All I can say is summertime is officially here at our home!!!

2009-05-08T07:08:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!!!

To every mom out there, to my Mom, to Kathy, to my Grandmas', to Rose, and to Me!
Motherhood for me is described like weeding my garden (I apologize for the earthly analogies, that's my connection) the harvest is worth all the work and labor (even if you find poop along the way), the beauty after each weeding and fertilizing is felt in your soul. My soul is filled with the spirit of motherhood. I owe that to many wonderful women in my life who showed me the way and helped me grow.- My mom, she was and continues to always be there, she supports my children, she is the treat Queen for the kids at the games, and she does those little things like making cards with me and for me. -Kathy a.k.a Blondee is a sweetie, she is a confidant, she's always there for her family, I feel blessed to have a mother-in-law to call my friend. -My Grandma taught me lots about gardening, trees, and earthly creations. She is dear to my heart for many reasons, but especially all the nurturing during my younger years.
-Grandma Norma she has became an example to me of resilience and determination. Honestly I think I get my determination from her, she is still driving and working in her yard and she will be 90. -Rose I am grateful for her strength, her example, lessons, and her love.She is a 'Rose'. Each of these special women, all my sisters-in-law, and Melzer influence my life a big Happy Mother's day to you all!!!

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched they must be felt with the heart. Helen Keller

2009-05-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

It is Monday morning-for me that means laundry, mopping, bathrooms, etc. I am not complaining, I love it when it is all done. but, I am a mover and a shaker, moving from one project to the next. I sat down to write this because my sweet daughter just brought me in a dandelion. "Because she loves me." The irony is that Saturday evening when Chris and I were working in the yard we both were saying how yucky those weeds looked and we needed to rid our yard of them. "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." My daughter in her kindness saw it as a pretty flower and since I love flowers brought it to me. I have to ask who else out there thinks of these 'flowers' as weeds? Who else digs them up-or makes their children dig them up?

Or is Bethany right they are pretty in their own way- I am looking at this flower/weed (still undecided) and saying maybe it is simply the love behind her gift that has touched my heart more than the actual flower.

Gifts: The Best gifts truly do come in the strangest packages-even our weeds.

2009-04-30T07:33:00.000-07:00

I have had a fabulous week! I have been preparing for Seth's eighth birthday. In doing so it has sent me down a trail of many happy memories. I will share a few. I did not know that Seth was a a boy for sure but I always said that if he came out a girl I would name him Joy. His spirit was one of joy and sunshine from the very beginning. He is a happy boy, content, loves friends and family. He is messy ( even his teacher at school teases him about that) but hey "a boy can't be perfect in every way," I say to him. Nonetheless my good friend has shown me the fun fun process of DVD making and it has sent me down memory lane- I have cried, laughed, and wished for one week to just sit and hold that boy again. Actually I am doing it more-this morning when he came into my room I was being lazy and he snuggled in close it was a precious 'mom moment'. I love my children they are super kids! They have helped me grow! They have taught me many lessons and continue to-Thank you Seth for giving me sunshine regularly for eight years! Sunshine! Sunshine is every where, I can find it daily if I look, especially if I remember who the Son is.

2009-04-14T06:41:00.000-07:00

Guilty!!!!
I am admitting to my friends and fam two things that I have done and probably will do again:(hoepfully not) first and foremost I open my eyes regularly in prayers, Chris used to tease me, but excepts my lack of eye closure. Where does this lead to- Sunday (Luke is a model child of irreverence.) my eyes peeked open during the closing prayer of sacrament meeting to find Luke doing a jig in front of Derek, arms full swing and the whole works; he was laughing because Dek had his eyes closed (takes after his father) and was not paying attention. Confession #1
Confession #2 "I am soo fat." I have said this to my poor husband too many times no more. I had a moment last night when I realized as women how silly this is-someone who is extremely thin had said this to her husband and I laughed because she is thin.
I must ask why? Men do not go around comparing legs, chests, hair, etc. So why do we, I know some is related to the media and the culture of women's beauty, all of us know where true beauty comes from-WITHIN. We know this, yet, it is like we do not want to believe it. A lady that used to clean Kathy's house was not anything one might find on Cover Girl, but how pretty she is, for example, she loved all the children and would care for them gently. She cleaned with love and thoughtfulness, she would hug me whenever I came in. She was simple and simply put beautifully kind. Beauty shown from her. I will start the trend today, go tell yourself your beautiful, smile be proud to be you-It is nice, it feels right, after all "God did not create junk" and I do not want my daughter to see through that strange mirror of beauty.- I am beautiful, my friends are beautiful, and my family is beautiful!!!!!

"The best part of beauty is that which no picture can express." (unknown)

2009-04-05T12:24:00.000-07:00

I have posted a picture of a butterfly because of the symbolism it carries with Easter. The idea of a fuzzy, even chubby caterpillar turning into something as pretty as a butterfly makes me smile as well. The crystallis opening-the transformation is simply delightful! This reminds me of the awakening the earth had almost 2,000 years ago with the glorious Resurrection. How glorious that day has been and will continue to be for all. As I see butterflies out and about during the spring and summer I feel the child in me come alive: I watch, I smile, I even follow it to some degree-where does it land? They are a simple reminder my love for nature, my personal growth, and choice blessings in my life- my family, friends, and the Savior.

Happy, Happy Birthday to my handsome husband!!!!

He is 35 this week. He doesn't seem like he's aged much, for example, he's always been a busy guy, he still plays sports, he can still dunk, and he still wears the same size in clothes as he did on his mission. A few differences from his younger years to now is he can't keep his eyes open past much past nine, he can't sleep much past six, he has five kids, worries about retirement, and he loves gardening. (According to his parents this was not something he did in his youth.)

One thing that has not changed is that I love him dearly. Happy Birthday Chris!!!

2009-04-01T08:55:00.000-07:00

Wind again! I have goosebumps that are on my legs, they think they have found a permanment home. The 'chill' does exist it has found its home in Utah-this spring? So with that said I am cancelling scouts, I am snuggling up with a good book this afternoon and chilling too. I am sluffing my duties today- I take that back I will pick up the uniforms for my coaches, possibly exercise-naaa, but then it is warmth coming my way!

*The sunny days are a head-a positive affirmation!

2009-03-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

This picture says it all- We Miss our daddy. Chris' life really makes me tired. He's a worker to say the least. Tax Season is almost through.

It has been windy-windy -windy! SURPRISED? That is our Emery Springs. So with that I have pondered on our winds of life lately while missing dad.

Top Ten

10. The new dog Belle- it is a dog need I say more. (Sorry Tai we really do love her, she's just a dog- cute though.)

9. My 3 days of illness, thanks to my family or the house may still be in shambles. (What would I do if it was more?)

8. Smoke! Tai's dinner for being ordained a deacon- the meatloaf spilled over in the oven and smoke was everywhere, we opened windows, doors etc. Grandma Jean was the worried one.

7. The wind blew our Big Bertha tube outside behind the truck, Chris and I ran it over and then it lodged itself on the exhaust pipe, I suppose a new tube is in the future.

6. I fell twice in a week, once running with the dog, and I tripped on the sidewalk, both times were a ten, both resulted in a head thump and some bleeding- yep.

5. We weren't 'holy' enough, ha ha! We had a leak which has taken about a month to finally resolve where it is coming from- the tub tiles- now we have a three foot hole in our kitchen ceiling due to the investigation. This is a good FHE lesson on our holes and patching with the proper source.

4. Washer leak- new washer and dryer. Ohh those new ones are splendid, this was a cool breeze in the end.

3. Luke left the b-ball game a week ago and found his way to the parking lot to get in the van- it was locked, a nice lady brought him to us. Oh sakes!

2. I do beleive in happy winds- our chickens are laying again-that made Seth's week.

#1. Luke Shaved- Yes he really did. He came upstairs bledding from his mouth so it appeared. After a few minutes of wiping and him repeatedly saying, " I sabed." I discovered it was really his upper lip cut in a diagonal strip a few times. I found out he had gotten Chris' razor and shaved because he has wiskers- yes he does grow up too fast.

With all this said I don't mean it in any way except to create a laugh- we have it good and we are sooooo blessed it is just fun to see where the winds take us- they help the Justice's grow and keep perspective how about you?

2009-03-16T08:19:00.000-07:00

Going Green or something like that???

I enjoy the holidays even small ones like St Patrick's Day! I try to do silly things for the kids. Needless to say I am going green beyond the green treats and the clothes- I am commiting to do better at keeping the lights off- this is a problem at our house lights on when nobody is in the room. I am a composter (though have grown lax during the winter) I plan to do better at throwing those grubs out to the garden. I am a "throw-awayer." (Is that even a word?) Anyway I think it might be another 'green' area to work on recycling. Here there are not places to take it unless over to Price. But I commit to my dear family and friends to do better with taking them to the recycling place- wherever that may be- I will find that out! There is my commitment I hope to be a bit like Oscar and enjoy my trash to some degree- I laugh at the idea of comparing myself to Oscar but hey what can I say? I love this beautiful earth I do. I see it as a gift form the Lord and I want to be as helpful in taking care of it as possible!
Any suggestions or ideas on helping me are appreciated.

Everyone have a happy day and be jolly even if not in GREEN like the giant.

2009-03-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

Thank You Tiff!
I am going to write my 25 Simple pleasures in Life-Tiff's list inspired me.

1- Laughing
2- cookie dough icecream
3-snuggling with my kids- even the older ones.
4-A nice kiss from Chris
5- Gardening in the warm sunshine.
6-Fresh cut grass
7-Reading a good book uninteruppted
8-pony tails- Bet brushing my hair
9-a clean house
10-a newly mopped floor
11-eating out with Chris
12-rain and thunderstorms
13-fresh fruit, especially oranges
14-skiing on a glass lake in the evening or early morning
15-running with no destination
16-playing games with my family-a good kickball or b-ball game
17-Sitting on my front porch in the early summer morning
18-writting in my journal
19-smells of fresh flowers and homemade bread
20-a rosebud from grandma's garden
21-a hug
22-sunrises
24-a walk with chris
25- anything that reminds me of who I am and why we are here-they're found anytime I look.

I tag any friends- it is just nice to think of our pleasures in this world.

2009-02-28T16:17:00.000-08:00

P.S.
I forgot to mention Tai's biggest gift- a dog-I know/except love from Apryl because of her dog experiences. Actually we all have fallen in love with Belle. So once again I am eating the word NEVER...

2009-02-28T14:51:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to My boy!!

12 years old!

Tai had another birthday these birthdays seem to be going a bit too fast for his mom's liking. He is different then most kids he would rather have oreo cookies than a cake, he has not wanted a party for the last few years, and he did not ask for anything except a suit. Tai, being my oldest teaches me a lot and offers me experiences that I learn from for the other kids. He is smart and talented but humble almost to the point of self-defeat. I love him and am grateful for his 'birth' day and all the blessings that have came from it. Happy are we for him.

2009-02-17T17:48:00.000-08:00

I stated in my last post that I exercise, and enjoy it most of the time. Well, I have to share a
Dream Come True...

Dek has decided that he likes running after beating me in the turkey trot, I thought it may be a phase, nope, he asks to go with me and he went aprox. 3 miles with me today and asked if I would buy him running shoes. (That is one time YES came out without a thought.) I am excited to have a partner and a dream come true- when I became a mom I always had a thought in my head " I hope someday I can do this with my kids"- it has happened! Dreams do come true- so everyone out there keep visualizing them and they come true, like Bethany said, " I believe in Happily ever after." I do too I am living it with my sweetheart and fam.

What are some of your dreams???

2009-02-12T07:44:00.000-08:00

My Five Addictions humm...

(no particular order.)

1. Exercise- I go crazy after about a day or maybe two without it. It keeps me partially sane.

2. A clean house- there is no keeping up with Lacey though.

3. Reading- I have a basket by my bed and it has a few books there right now I am reading. Especially those self-helpers crazzzy?!

4. Sweets-cookie dough to be honest. I need a fix every now and then- I feel like my Aunt Tricia I will go to the pantry and take a lick out of the icing jar for a nice fix. I think that is why I enjoy baking ?

5. Last but definitely not least---CHRIS. I love him. He is my best friend-he and I like to go out to eat, he has great advice for me, he makes me laugh, he is a support, and a strength to me.

P.S. I really think I have a pony tail addiction- I may not way it all day but by night it is back, without cutting off my hair, I do not know how to cure this addiction???

I now get to tag--------Chelsea, Amie, Melzer, and Kelli

YOU ARE IT!!!

2009-02-08T18:03:00.000-08:00

A Quick update: For all Moms out there!!!
As I was posting my last post the kids were playing dodge ball in the family room with tennis balls-yep we are crazy at our home and Tai came in "Mom you are burning down our house way to go!" I said, " What?" He then took me to the kitchen and sure enough our lovely Sunday dinner was smoking. No I did not burn it-just the pie spilt over and now we are watching snowflakes come down with doors open. ( Smoke free home is the goal.)So much for going green this year?

2009-02-08T17:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to our Sis/Princess/Sweetheart!
I can hardly believe that she is really having another birthday. The best visual way to sum up her is by the curly ribbons I put in her hair on her birthdays she is most certainly a gift to us. Her daddy's heart has not been the same since she was born, she is a giver of smiles, light, hugs, kisses, pictures, letters,(as a matter of fact she and Seth just barely used all my valentine cards for some of my friends for their own letters) and kindness. I am thankful I have a daughter-it helps me to grow in lots of ways, she likes to say "Mom we are a like-even our brown eyes." I hope I can be like her in those special ways. She has brought sunshine from all around. Happy birthday to her and many many more!!

P.S. Some ask if being the only girl is she spoiled-YEP! She is spoiled with things, but most of all love-we would not be the same with out her.
HATS OFF 2 OUR DAUGHTERS!!!!

2009-02-01T13:58:00.000-08:00

This week is our 13th wedding anniversary.
So I have posted 13 fav's Chris and I enjoy .

Our kids- they are our greatest joy and have tested our tempers too.
Going out to eat especially at Groggs.
Running together even though we run separately we still go together. Then talk after.
Working in the garden- I talk while I work (go figure) so I hope it is as enjoyable for Chris- he says so. All yard work we like weeding and mowing too.
Boating- warm sunshine on a glass lake says it all.
Going for early morning walks (it has been awhile) it is nice.
Reading -with the kids and together it is fun.
Kissing-need I say more.
Guitar Hero and American Idol-we are not very good, but hey we can get the kids laughing it is funny. ( We like to listen to music.)
Going on trips: as a family, with our families, or by ourselves.
Ball games
Watching shows after the kids have gone to bed- I think we've seen all the King of Queens but we still laugh.
Last but not least the gospel, it blesses and plays a major role in our lives.

P.S. I also might add we are taking up tennis together and there is not really an order it all is good stuff.

Where is the green grass?

2009-01-15T08:57:00.001-08:00

I enjoy the snow and think of it as a nice white cover over all the brown dead plants, so therefore when I ask if you miss the green grass it is not to sound ungrateful at all. I merely bring this subject up because of Lukey. The other day I was vacuuming the front room. The vacuum made its mark leaving the carpet fresh and clean looking. He said, " Thanks mom for making me a field." I smiled and went on. I looked at him all hunched down in a football stance and "ready, set, go!" came from him. He smiled and said, "Thanks for making me a field." Even though winter has its perks I think I agree with Luke green grass and a new cut lawn is the best!!!

2008-12-26T07:08:00.000-08:00

I hope all our friends and family had a very merry Christmas!? We had an eventful Christmas holiday this year from Christmas tree hunting to school parties, band concerts, ward and work parties, treats, cards, and gingerbread houses. Love all the smells of Christmas too!! We had a ball at the cabin Kathy and Mark rented a week ago. Lots of sledding and Tim and Bri thanks for bringing the 4-wheeler it added to the fun. The cabin was tight but still lots of fun. I honestly can say I do not feel like it is Chris' family they're mine too!! They are the best love all of you. We also did the Polar Express Luke loved it- it was for Luke since he is a big train lover. Luke liked the idea of going to the North Pole and seeing Santa's village and hopeful for that 'spiderman-lizard." Santa followed through on that wish. Christmas means to me family, friends, ( thanks to all of you for your thoughtful cards and treats!), and most importantly love -love of family and friends, but love of Jesus Christ his condecension and continuation in my life. Holy Christmas.

Seth's Christmas Shopping...

2008-12-13T20:41:00.001-08:00

I was sitting here do a little blogging work? Is it work I have not decided it is fun to keep in touch with everyone-so I say no. Anyway, Seth was in here looking at a magazine and he said, " Oh man, that is $29.99, I sure wish things had a little cheaper price tags on them." I had to laugh inside because I think at one time or another we all have thought that. He is the cutest. It is from the mouths of our babes that we can find truth. Even if it is something like " Mom why do you still have a belly when you arrive home from the hospital with the new little one. Or the time Dek asked grandpa if he ate too much while looking at his belly. I can just say I am grateful for their honesty and all the other delights they bring into our life. These moments make life merry and the season merry. Merry Christmas!

2008-12-02T08:14:00.000-08:00

This is just a quick post to all you fellow moms out there-a parenting moment one might say...

Chris, Derek, Tai, and I ran in the annual Turkey Trot here in Huntington on Thanksgiving and Dek beat me so needless to say I owe him some cash ha ha. Anyway long story short we came home got everything ready for the big dinner and were tired from our exertion earlier that morning so while watching a show we dozed off, yes, Luke saw this as a prime time to do some art work that he learned from watching Barbie Diamond Castle with Sis. He took a brush and painted a lovely picture in the ahll, in the playroom (it was a bit bigger in there), in his room and their closet and the shelves in his closet. One might ask why was paint out because I had started painting a "cliche' " wall in our play room and it was one of the screw cap paint bottles. He managed he is a smartie and very artistic too. I have been repairing the damage for a couple days and feel responsible myself. Yes, this is my baby.

Here is a parenting moment and hope you all can either give yourself a pat on the back for your great families or relieve yourself from some guilt-it is all great-Parenting!!! Love it!!!

Hey Brooke hope this makes you feel a bit better- we've all been in crazy mom moments.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-22T07:57:00.000-08:00

"...For whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."(Gal. 6:7) This is my prayer of thanksgiving this week of Thanksgiving. I say this because I have much to be thankful this year 2008. As I sit and ponder on the blessings harvested this year they are bountiful to say the least. I know where all my blessings come from but it is due to many people in my life sowing those seeds that I have been able to reap the blessings. For example, family (what a blessing): Chris and I both have supportive and super parents they are always there for us in many ways emotionally, physically-they try to be there for all the kids events-if not in person in spirit; they also taught us values and principals that help us sow various seeds in our lives now. A special thanks to our parents! I can not forget my Grandma she has done so much for me over the years. Her humanitarian efforts are seeds that are endless, I thank her for teaching me literally to plant flowers and a garden things that bring me happiness now in my life-except when I am nagging the kids to weed not much joy there, but that seed will live on, grandma. All of our family extended and you cute cousins we love you and want you to know we're counting you as a blessing too.
My children those seeds are still being nurtured by us and my kids have planted special seeds in my heart that will endure through eternity-oh how I love them and are grateful for their examples: for instance, Bet trying to play with someone new every day at kindergarten thanks, Sis, for planting that in my heart too.
Family is by far the biggest harvest every year but this year I have also help the blessing of great friends you know who you are, your example and friendships have been helpful. I remember one night Steve Stream came by he is a good friend to us and that was just very thoughtful and kind. That seed lives on. What blessings we have in those seeds planted by dear friends.
I have also experience a wonderful harvest from our garden, I love all the stuff and love to eat it still. So literally those seeds that were planted in late spring have sowed much joy in my life.
Books continue to sow seeds of learning, last Christmas break Chris and I read Jane Eyre I read it in 10th grade in Mrs. Wakefield's class, but this time it was fantastic!! Still my favorite book, from that book we have read others this year including Les Mis (Chris' Fav). Now I work at the school library a little during the week. These books are super in helping me with sowing and harvesting many things in my life.
I have much to be grateful for I think all of us do. I most importantly am grateful for the knowledge of a loving Savior. That seed is one that continues to grow and I reap a bit and then it grows some more and just continues.
So lets keep sowing, because then we all share in the harvest. Happy Thanksgiving!!!

You may wonder why I chose blue-Go Cougars!!!!!

2008-11-08T10:02:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Derek Benjamin Justice (A.K.A Dek)

Deks Favs
-Color Orange

-Football, Basketball, Baseball

-Cookie Dough

-Red Sox

-BYU

-Dolphins: the team and the animal -

-Friends

-Reading

-Drawing

-Boating

-Chocolate: pie, candy, cake etc.

-Legos

-Mexico

-Hawaii

-Music and the giutar
-Star Wars

"My Lovely living Boy, My hope, my hap, my Love, my Life, my joy." -Guillaume De Saulluste Du Bartas

I can not believe Dek will be ten this week-where has the time went? He is just simply growing up too fast. We love him tons and that quote sums up how I feel about him. He is all of that and our little firecracker: bringing us light, joy, smiles, beauty/hansome as ever, laughs, fun, and a few pops-ooh the excitement of Dek's moods. Yet we love him dearly and wish him a happy week and especially much love and light in this life and in the next.
Love Mom and Dad

The Justice Halloween

2008-11-02T13:15:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a Happy Halloween. We did. Halloween mornings are always crazy at our house- it possibly could be me getting out of my routine not the kids. Anyway getting all their costumes on and last minute touch ups. We could never fit piano in on those mornings (sorry Kelcy and Brenda.) Tai could not decide so at about seven in the morning I threw a referee shirt on him and said, "You make a cute ref." He did not complain so a referee he was. Dek joined up Kobe and they were secret agents/Men in Black whatever, except they looked very handsome. Seth was Vader. He was happy as could be just to be some guy off of Star Wars. Bet was Little Red Riding Hood. She had a party the Sat. before and they went on a hayride, had treats, and played a couple games -cute girls. She thought Halloween was 'splendid.' Luke was Superman, he practiced well, he wore that costume around for three days and flew to the best of his ability. He only hurt his foot in the adventure and only has a slight limp today. We did the school walk, trunk or treat at the church parking lot, and went to Lawrence (Lawrence is the place to trick-or-treat, the good stuff is out in Lawrence -a tip for any Huntington folk.) So our bags we full. Dek's was so heavy that he could barely pack it. As you can see it was fun. I would not say it is my fav, but I enjoy anything my kids do. So Happy Halloween! Life is fun fun fun.

2008-10-29T07:57:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all our friends and fam for responding-I can honestly say that blogging could be a "fun" thing for me! If I can get it all down-wish me well. We have had a busy week-flag football is over and fun it was!! Sethy's team won I have some cute pictures of Seth he is very animated to say the least. Chris is relieved to have it over- it is lots of work for him. Tai is wrapping up his season. Halloween is just around the corner so all post some of our pictures.
Fall is great leaves were crunching under my shoes this morning on my run-love the sound of crunchy leaves. So with that I will list my "Harvest Blessings:"
-Chris and the kids
-Our parents- Mark and Kathy are the fantastic, Mom and Dad thanks for all your support
-Our great garden this year-the pumpkins have been super
-Good friends
-warm blankets on the chilly nights
-music
-laughter
-the van it takes us every where
-good books
-running-it keeps me sane
-I know there is more but that will do for today-Life is great!!!!!!

We're Back!!!

2008-10-14T09:33:00.001-07:00

Hello Friends and Family!
Mel has been helping me with my blog- that will be the difference in my blogging skills ha .
I will update you on our life since I last blogged. We celebrated Luke's 3rd B-day he is a spiderman junky so we had a spider cake and spider cupcakes. He had a party at our house with grandparents and Champ (He loves Champ)-we love Ike and Tiff too.
From there we jumped right into the Castle Valley Pageant. Bet was Bessie and thought it fantastic to be a main character in one of the families. She had a super experience, even though Dingus her favorite horse stepped on her foot. After some TLC and a couple days she was good to go. Thank you grandpa Mark for all your hard work and encouraging us to do it because sometimes we would quit.
We are not campers to say the least so in mid-August we created the "Justice Camping style". We went boating to Huntington Lake and stayed in our tent for the night. It was fun. We told scary stories and also got to do one of our families favorite things boat!! Dek got up on skis that time. Dad mastered his 360 turn on the knee board. We boated until the 2nd week in Sept. That time it was a bit nippy.
School started on the 19th of Aug. We have four at the elementary wow! Make that 5 I am there too as the Librarian. It is o.k. but nice to be there with the kids. I love Dek coming in at lunch recess.
We joke that in the fall we worship two gods the 2nd being football. Yes we play football, watch it, cheer it, go to games, and chris coaches 3teams between the boys. It is fun. Seth is cut as a flag puller, Dek is a bit intense, Tai is QB and very goal oriented, & Luke walks around saying "BYU, BYU." Bet and I love it too. Dave blocks for BEt so she will occasionally score in our backyard games.
Fall is great...our garden gave us wonderful tomatoes, squash, cucumbers,beans, peppers, berries, and now pumpkins!! We have been blessed. We have wonderful friends and family to support us and many blessings . Honestly we do recognize where all these treasures come from- the Lord.
That is us for now good and still going strong.