tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34494464911290363132024-03-13T00:02:07.370+01:00Six Becklings plus twoPLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-40619646886650464012013-12-20T03:48:00.001+01:002013-12-20T15:53:32.245+01:00An Instrument in the Lord's hands<div class="MsoNormal">
Being an instrument in the Lord’s hands<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is this awesome group called the Piano
Guys. Have you heard of them? They are amazing musicians: masters, if you
will. They do amazing things with their
instruments. Even more amazing is how they
take ordinary instruments and expand on their musical potential. For example, for a couple of music videos they took the top off a grand piano and played it in a most unusual way. Four or five men stood around this piano,
plucking at its strings, winding horse hairs around the strings, using paper,
and even hitting, pounding, and beating on different sides of this piano. The piano is most definitely not played
in the typical manner. Yet, from this
dismantling and beating, it produces an amazing sound<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I couldn’t help but
think of how the instrument (or witnesses standing by) may have felt. Perhaps there were questions or comments like: “Wait!
This is NOT the way it should be played.” Or “Why can’t you just play it
the ‘right’ way, or the way it was intended?” or “It won’t sound good that
way. It just won’t work.” Or even, “Why
would you ruin a perfectly good instrument that way? Why did you ruin it?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In fact, there may
have been MANY questions of “Why?!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
But you see, the thing is, The Piano Guys are
the master musicians. They know what
they are doing. As masters, they knew that they could allow
the piano to be played like every other piano and it would have still produced
beautiful music. But they also knew of
the piano’s potential. They knew of the
amazing things that would happen if the piano trusted in the musician and allowed
itself to go down a path it didn’t envision.
By being taken down a “different path,” the piano was taken to a greater
level.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aren’t we sometimes like this piano? We are told to be “instruments in the Lord’s
hands,” and I’ve been reminded more and more as of late, that this is no simple
task. There are times, we look at our
instruments (ourselves), and <i>know</i>
what we are capable of. We know the kind
of beautiful music that we could produce if the Master would simply follow our
plan and play us as we wish. We want to
just produce the same kind of beautiful music that all the other instruments
are producing: Nothing more, nothing
less.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BUT, it is not the instruments job to instruct. We are NOT the master musicians here. We are the instruments. I have been left in awe of this lesson and
reminded to take heed of the lesson to be learned. I lose the potential of a greater power when
I limit myself simply to what I already know.
Yet, to truly be an instrument in His hands, I need to trust in Him, and
trust that he truly does know what he is doing.
When I want to scream, “WAIT!
NO! This is NOT the way I was
intended to be played!” I am left instead with the image of beautiful music
that was created when the instrument was played in a most unusual manner. When I want to just be like all the other
instruments, and played in a simple manner, I am reminded that not all of us
were intended to be played the same way.
When I want to say “Stop. Please
don’t break me down like this. You’ll
ruin me!”, I try to think of how this particular piano HAD to be broken down
and beaten in order for the Masters to work their magic.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
As trials come and
trials go, the most important thing for me to realize right now, is that even a
broken down and beaten instrument can still be beautiful. For it is by the Masters hand that great
things are brought to pass. . . .and if the instrument needs to be broken down
first, that’s okay (or at least it will be), for the Master is in charge of the
instrument, and as we have faith in that, beautiful things WILL come. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In case you were wondering, here's a link to a few of their videos:<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n543eKIdbUI">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n543eKIdbUI</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VqTwnAuHws">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VqTwnAuHws</a></div>
PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-72936057547064973682013-06-27T08:25:00.000+02:002013-06-27T08:25:07.412+02:00Recent funniesJune 19, 2013<br /><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Last
week, Breanna was away at Girls Camp. This week, I'm being
reminded of all that she does to help out at home, and especially with
baby sister. (She doesn't even need to be asked). So I told her today
"I've decided, you can never leave home again, until Angela
graduates from high school." Her response, "Kind of harsh. But OKAY.</span><br />
<br />
May 17, 2013<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">My two year old today: "Oh no Mama. The milk is sad."<br /> Me: "the milk is sad?"<br /> 2 yr old: "it's crying"<br />
Then I look at the gallon of milk on the counter with moisture dripping
down the side and realize what she is talking about. This little girl
is so stinkin' cute. Gosh, I adore her!</span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Feb 27, 2013</span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">String
instruments being played in my home makes me feel so content! Loving
that my twins just started playing the cello and double bass. Already,
they sound fabulous. I like to think they got their musical talent from
me The funny thing is, when I mentioned that to BK, she said "Well, duh! HOW could we get it from DAD?!" ha ha.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">"I hate it when you open the fridge and can't find what you're looking for. . . .like happiness, . . .and perfect abs. . . .</span>" </span> </span>PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-83547986832842036102013-05-29T10:41:00.000+02:002013-05-29T10:41:37.982+02:00I really need to post these more. . . My kids are hilarious. They are constantly cracking me up, and they make me laugh. This is a good thing. I'm an easily amused person, as it is. But, I'll admit it, having six kids can be draining sometimes, especially with a husband that is CONSTANTLY gone due to military commitments. However, I do believe there is way more good in my large brood than bad, and I adore them so much. SO here are some current gems.<br /><br />**On Mothers Day this year, Paul was gone for training (for the 4th time in the last 5 years over Mothers Day), but my kids still wanted to make it special for me. I awoke to smoke detectors going off in the house. Sure enough, I go downstairs, and the kitchen is filled with smoke, and red-faced VERY apologetic kids that kept pleading "We're SOOO sorry" "We were trying to surprise you!" "We didn't want to wake you". I started laughing. Yes, they had scorched two of my pans with oil, BUT they not only were trying to make me breakfast in bed, but had decided that crepes were the way to go. ha ha. Crepes are not known for being easy. And even though, I like to think I have trained them pretty well in the kitchen, I do not think they are up to the complexity of crepes just yet. So, I offered to make them. But then they PLEADED with me to PLEASE go get back in bed so they could still bring me breakfast in bed. Again, I laughed. But I did what I was told. However, there was a small crash, along with a disappointed sigh outside of my door as I heard "oh no. Now we spilled milk all over the carpet." Again, I laughed. The truth is, I can't remember the last time anyone tried to bring me breakfast in bed, and I found it extremely sweet. My 14 year old Adam ran the show, and was so red in the face with embarrassment. I just hugged him tightly, continued to laugh, and told him that I like the story of what really happened WAY better than if it had all gone right. A VERY memorable Mothers Day. Love it!<br /><br />**That evening, My little Miss Natalee brought me some homemade coupons for a Mothers Day gift. It had little tasks like "I will fold the laundry for a week", or "I will wash the big dishes for a week." When I read the "I will keep my room clean for two weeks," I became very excited and said "I'll cash in on that RIGHT now." To which she replied with a very straight face "that will be a $5. surcharge.". SO funny! These kids crack me up.<br />
<br />
**On another day, my baby girl, Miss Angela came waltzing into my room as I was getting ready for the day. She took one look at me and exclaimed "MOM! I Like your BODY!" I laughed so hard, while adding in "well, I guess that makes one of us.". A few minutes later as I continued to get ready, she sat looking at me and said, rather reflectively "Mom? Your butt is beautiful." Sure that I misheard her, I said "what did you say?" To which she replied "Your butt. It's beautiful." Much more laughter ensued. She could be VERY good for my self esteem! If only all people thought like 2 year olds. . . . on second thought, that's probably NOT a good idea. ha ha<br />
<br />
**One Saturday night I was out late, and a friend of mine gave me a manicure. The next day, while sitting next to Adam, I showed him my nails and said "look! They're pink!" To which he replied with a twinkle in his eye, "No, they're HOT pink. . . . just like my mom!" Ha ha. What a goofy schmoozer. Made me laugh though.<br />
<br />
**Then there's my Breanna. A girl who bleeds confidence. I honestly wish I would have had her kind of confidence growing up. She is amazing. She is very sure of who she is. She knows of her talents and abilities, and even more admirable, she knows where she lacks and will laugh with us as we tease her about them (such as her lack of dancing abilities, and her cartwheels. SO FUNNY!). She loves to tell Paul and I exactly what she is thinking too. So the other day, she was commenting about getting straight A's (which I don't think she has EVER gotten below an A), and said "You know mom, in my last school, I was KNOWN for my smartness." The phrase made me laugh, and she caught it as she said it, but it was too late. It had been said, and now she will be teased for years and years to come. Thank goodness she laughs more than anyone else I know.<br />
<br />
**Isaac is always up to no good. He has a twinkle in his eye, and LOVES to tease. He sits on the edge of his seat just waiting for any of us to mess up our words (which happens quite frequently), but especially his Mom and Dad. Watch out for this one though, cause he's a charmer. All he has to do is flash those dimples and there's no way you can be annoyed.<br />
<br />
** And now, we are on to Timmy. What a ham. His expressions are the best. My mind is blanking on any recent stories, but let's just say, that boy has a lot of energy. And one of my favorite things is how every morning when I dropped him off at school, he would crawl over the seats to come give me a hug, JUMP out of the car, then twirl around so he could wave bye to me again. Then he would literally bounce into the school. Oh, I love my "sunshine".PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-5403570252014489552012-10-16T16:57:00.001+02:002012-10-16T16:57:08.444+02:00Lazer Tag in Idaho<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody"><span class="userContent">So
we went and played lazer tag the other day, and my team was suddenly
overrun by a group of young boys (7-10 yr olds). So we planned an
"attack" on their level, and all had retreated but one child. So I came
around the corner, pointed my lazer gun at him and said "ALL your
friends have deserted you. You're ALL alone. What are you going to
do?!" . . . . He started crying. And then I felt really bad, and
hugged him and said "I'm sorry, honey. I didn't mean to scare you.
I'll protect you.". . . . So, basically, . . yeah. . . I laughed about
it later. I made a kid cry. But BOY, would I make a crappy soldier.
If the enemy cries, I go soft on 'em. </span></span></span></span></span></h5>
PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-41194616749755387222012-08-29T09:42:00.000+02:002012-08-29T09:42:37.311+02:00Finally. . . we have verification!So, our PCS (permanent change of station) date from Germany has been Oct. 9th, for a little while. Yet, some of the paperwork we needed so we could schedule movers and reserve plane tickets, etc. etc. has been held up because. . . . well, because we're in the army (wink, wink). <br /> Anyhoo, we finally were able to get solid paperwork, which means that we were able to reserve and now it's starting to really feel real.<br /> In 8 days, the movers will show up to start packing up our main household goods. In six days, we ship our suburban. And on Sept 28th, we send our unaccompanied baggage (about 1000 lbs of the most needed smaller stuff = kitchen supplies, clothes, etc.) <br /> And in exactly six weeks from yesterday, on Oct. 9th, we will be flying from Germany to Idaho. Because we are going from OCONUS duty station to OCONUS, the military pays for us to take a trip home. We are so grateful for this (since travel from Alaska is not cheap). So, we will spend a few weeks visiting family and then head north to Fairbanks, Alaska.<br /> We are really excited for the move. Alaska seems beautiful and amazing. Though it'll be quite the different environment from the current one we have grown accustomed to.<br />
We are so excited for our visit home to see family. There are family members we haven't seen in three years (and some sadly, even longer). Many have not met our baby Angela, and I'm so excited for them to see her and her spunky personality. I'm excited for them to see how much my children have grown and matured. <br /> I feel many times like a vagabond. I get antsy after being anywhere for two years or so. This is our 19th home, after all (and I think it's my 28th, personally - or something like that). I just get restless. So, moving is a good thing, because I'm ready for our next adventure and new place.<br />
That said, I'm really dreading this move as well. I love Europe. I love that almost EVERYTHING is within our reach. There's beaches, historical significance, castles, beautiful cities, shopping, good food, international gems, etc. etc. We have LOVED touring around Europe. Our kids have all experienced at least 12 countries, and the older five have been to 14. I personally, just went to my 20th country last month = Poland.<br /> I LOVE Europe. Bavaria, Germany is such a beautiful place to live. <br /> And I love love love the people here and the amazing friends I have gained. I have never felt so accepted by large groups despite my crazy quirks and goofy humor. In fact, so many here ALSO have warped senses of humor, which makes for wonderful wonderful times. I love so many people here and feel so connected to them. Maybe it's because we are sharing so many experiences together, or maybe it's just because we are all just "that awesome" ha ha. <br /> A week or two ago, I made the mistake of singing through "For Good" from "Wicked". It has a line that says "It well may be, that we will never meet again in this lifetime. So let me say before we part, so much of me is based on what I learned from you. You'll be with me like a hand print on my heart." Well, maybe I was just a little more emotional that day, but I couldn't make it through it. I kept crying. Even now, thinking about it chokes me up. I HOPE with all that's in me, that there ARE reunions some day with my "Germany family". I know the reality is that I may NOT get to see some. And THAT hurts. They really are my family here. <br />
I could go on and on about how much I love each and every friend here, but will save that for another time. <br /> I know when time does come for goodbyes that I will be crying my eyes out (The "ugly cry", if you will). I've already had those cries for friends who have already left. I hate goodbyes. But am SOOO glad to share so much love with so many, that are the REASON the goodbyes are hard. (If that makes sense).<br />
Anyhoo, on that note, I will sign off for today. I have a house to get ready for movers :) (And so glad that MOVERS get to do the brunt of it this time, and not me. I've done, after all, 18 of the last 19 moves). <br />
Life is good.PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-44870048985815777272012-08-29T08:57:00.003+02:002012-08-29T08:57:33.505+02:00Current Cute StoriesSo, on Sunday, Adam gave a talk in church. He started out by saying "For those of you who don't know me, I'm Adam Beck. For those of you who DO know me, it's now Bob. Got it? BOB!" <br /> Paul and I just laughed, as did many in the congregation. And so far, many people have been calling him Bob. It so cracks me up. A little funny add-on. We had a visiting high council speaker that day. He's German, and didn't quite understand the joke, because in his talk, he mentioned a "Robert Beck" that he used to know, and turned around to ask Paul (who was sitting on the stand), if we had named "Bob" (AKA=Adam) after a relative named Robert Beck who had lived in Germany. Paul just smiled and said not that he knows of. Too funny<br /><br />Another cute moment: The other day, Angela was watching "Elmo in Grouchland" and while sitting on the couch, suddenly started crying and became very upset. Upon investigating, I discovered that she was upset because Elmo's blankey was flying away from him, and he couldn't catch it. The idea of losing a blankey was just too much, ESPECIALLY when it was happening to Elmo (she LOVES Elmo). <br /><br />This morning, I was showing Isaac a picture of the girls and I. He kind of just shrugged his shoulders, and I said "Don't you think it's a nice picture?" To which he responded: "Yeah, it's nice. But I'm not in it, so it's not TOO nice" . Ha ha. Seriously, I so love these kids that make me laugh all the time.<br />
<br />
Last week, I was talking to the kids about the different kinds of kisses. It's kind of a joke I learned many many years ago about the "peach" "pear" "Plum" and "alfalfa". Paul says, "Let ME try". He puts his lips right in front of mine, and then, very loudly says "PEACH!" I laughed so hard, I almost fell over. He made the kids and I laugh even more, when he said right after "Yup. I just don't get it." There are so many reasons I love this man. The fact that he makes me laugh so much, is one of the big ones.<br />
<br />
<br />PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-64138451721551354122012-07-23T15:42:00.004+02:002012-07-23T15:42:33.954+02:00Recap of our summer so far 2012<div id="yui_3_2_0_20_1343047138971473" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_13430302413057989" style="right: auto;">I just finished another semester last week, and start
another condensed semester today. I'm down to 20 credits until my bachelors
degree. I'm so close I can taste it, and it feels so good (It also feels like I
have been at this FOREVER!)</span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_1343047138971482" style="right: auto;"> Of course, this means
I'll be in the middle of a semester during our move across the globe, (With
family time thrown in there), but I'll make it work. The thought of taking a
semester off at this point just drives me crazy. I'm SOOO
close!</span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389711310" style="right: auto;">Okay, so moving
on:</span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_13430302413058701" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_13430302413058662" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_13430302413058673" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389711395" style="right: auto;"> </span>To
start off our summer we feel so super blessed to have had Grandpa Curtis join us
for our European adventure of the summer. It was awesome. When we picked him up
at the airport in Nuremberg, we went straight to the WWII Documentation museum
(I think it is one of the best historical museums we have been to in all our
travels). Then we went and walked around at the old Nazi Party Rally Grounds
(Zeppelin field). The next day, we set off for Munich and walked around the
city. We also went to Dachau concentration camp. The kids have already been to
two concentration camps (including Dachau) and asked if they could "please
bypass" it this time. They were so cute about it. They said they totally think
Grandpa should get to see it, and it was cool information, but would be happy to
hang out in the car and just play card
games.</span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_134303024130511401" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_134303024130511413" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389711657" style="right: auto;"> </span>So,
Paul and Grandpa went in and the kids and I hung out, and they were awesome. We
were entertained and they never
complained.</span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_134303024130511781" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_134303024130511794" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389711570" style="right: auto;"> </span>It's interesting, because
I truly believe places like Dachau are important reminders. It is sobering to
realize just the extent of brutality that can occur when hatred is allowed to
exist. The memorial is very well done, and it explains so much with well placed
picture and reader board displays. However,once through is enough for me. I'm
glad that we were able to experience it. As I was talking to Dad about it, we
commented about it seems odd to say "I enjoyed" the experience of it. There is a
solemn presence that exists, and great respect is shown, with hushed voices
everywhere. Yet, how else do you express that you're glad you went somewhere but
not disresepect the atrocities that took place? It's a complete
conundrum.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_134303024130516904" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_134303024130514269" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_134303024130514283" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389711525" style="right: auto;"> </span>Well,
on to brighter and happier things. That same evening, we continued on to one of
our favorite places, Edeleweiss (an army lodge in the alps that border Germany
and Austria = Garmisch). We swam and enjoyed the beautiful scenery there. The
next day we headed over to Croatia. We stopped in Austria outside of Salzburg,
at the place where Silent Night was written. It was only supposed to take us 2
1/2 hours. Yet 4 1/2 hours later we finally arrived. It wasn't what we expected,
but we thought it would be a cool thing to be there. (I LOVE musical history).
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_134303024130516554" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_134303024130516034" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yiv1286972775yui_3_2_0_15_134303024130516049" style="right: auto;">Later on our trip, we realized that we had not gone to
the actual "silent night chapel" (where it was first performed) but instead,
only the place where it was written. DOH! And the actual chapel was less than 2
miles from where we stopped. So we COULD have gone to both. ha ha. Oh well, you
live you learn.<var id="yiv1286972775yui-ie-cursor"></var>
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389711497" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389711696" style="right: auto;"> So, we
continued on through Slovenia (absolutely beautiful country), and arrived in the
Istria provence of Croatia. The little resort we stayed at was actually on a
peninsula, so we felt surrounded by water. It was pretty cool. Croatia is
known for non-sandy beaches. They are mostly pebbles and rocks. Luckily, we
were prepared and had water shoes for everyone. There were a few different
beaches available within walking distance of our apartments, so we had fun
exploring the different ones and moving around. The snorkling was so fun. SO
many differenet kinds of fishes. One of of our highlights was getting to see a
squid while diving. Man, it was UGLY! ha
ha.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389713844" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389713861" style="right: auto;"> Paul was even able to get in one
scuba dive with Grandpa while we were there. I was so happy for him to get back
out there (one of these days I need to find my scuba card and get out there
myself
;-)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389714451" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389714469" style="right: auto;"> Another
highlight of our beach time was our very own version of "Wipeout". I SO wish we
would have had a video camera! There was an inflatable playground in the water
that the kids went on with Paul (as I hung back with tiny girl). They would try
and run across inflatable logs, and climb up inflatable mountains, and jump on
trampolines in the water. They biffed it so many times, and Grandpa and I just
laughed and laughed.
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389715768" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389715787" style="right: auto;"> I absolutely love seeing all of
my kids loving the water. They are excellent snorkelers and it was so wonderful
to take one of them out with me as "a swim buddy" as I swam out to the buoys and
other areas to explore. They are such a fun
age!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389716509" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389716529" style="right: auto;"> One of the
days we were in Croatia was spent in the town of Pula. What amazing history!
They had one of the most in tact Roman amphitheatres there. It was HUGE! And
dated back to around 6 A.D.! Can you even imagine?! And as if I wasn't blown
away enough by that, we were later shown an archway that was built in 46
B.C!!!!! Isn't it amazing to thinking of a man made structure that has survived
over 2000 years?! I really enjoyed our time in Pula. I love walking around
these European
cities.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389719882" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389718095" style="right: auto;"> We stayed in
Croatia for 5 days and then were off again. Our next day was spent going to
Vienna, Austria. We walked around the Schonbrunn palace which was absolutely
beautiful! It was much larger than I anticipated and very well
kept.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897110088" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389718691" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389718712" style="right: auto;"> A fun little
fact: The next day we were watching "Three Musketeers" (the 90's version with
Charlie Sheen) which is my favorite movie. Well, as we were watching we totally
recognized the balcony of the palace and confirmed at the end of the movie that
it was indeed the Schonbrunn palace that was used! We were JUST THERE! I
thought that was so fun. I really enjoyed
Vienna.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897110471" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897110249" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897110271" style="right: auto;"> The next day we drove to
Prague, and took a walking tour of the city. Paul and I have been there a few
times already, but it is such an enjoyable city to walk around. It was so fun
to have Grandpa along for it. It is seriously one of the prettiest cities we
have been in.
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897111125" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897111148" style="right: auto;"> That night, we drove home
(Thank goodness Prague is only 2 1/2 hours away :). THe next day was spent
going to church and then a town called Bayreuth. It is another european gem of
a city. We toured the castle there, and the opera house which is amazingly
ornate and beautifully lit. We also walked around the Ermitage which is a
conservatory/ outdoor sculpture garden area. It is another one of my favorite
spots around here. The problem: It was pouring down raining. Paul wasn't
completely thrilled with the idea of getting soaked, but I thought it was a
blast (and so did the kids). AND Grandpa was able to get the FULL Bavaria
experience that way, since Bavaria is ALL about rain, and he needed to be rained
on at least once. ha
ha</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897113412" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897113436" style="right: auto;"> Grandpas
last day here was spent going to Flossenburg castle which dates back to the
1500's (I think). The kids and Paul LOVE it, because you can climb in and out
and explore to your hearts content (of course, I have to look away and take deep
breaths a lot. My family is full of crazy
monkeys!).</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897114462" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897114487" style="right: auto;"> We were sad to have to give
Grandpa back at the end of his visit. But it was awesome knowing that it will
only be a few months til we can see him
again.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897114900" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897114926" style="right: auto;"> Moving on,
that same week we went hiking in a place referred to as the Rock Labyrinth. It
is a pretty moss covered, boulder infested mountain. There were so many giant
boulders and rocks to climb over, under, and through. THere were rock
staircases chiseled away in some places, and very tiny tunnels to crawl through
in others.
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897117708" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897115831" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897115858" style="right: auto;"> Adam even
managed to terrify his mother. Keep in mind, I have gotten very used to his
(and the other kids) crazy climbing. Not to mention their DAD! He so can't
control himself when climbing possibilities are anywhere nearby. Well, the kids
had all run ahead when we were headed down the mountain. I came around a corner
and there is my Adam up on a steep sloping boulder about 15-20 feet high. I
tell him it is time to come down, and he shouts okay, and starts sliding. He
sat down with his legs bent in front of him sliding on his bum at a very fast
pace. TOO fast. He then gets almost to the bottom and launches himself over to
another group of rocks about six feet away and it looks to me that he was
missing the rocks and jumping into an open drop off. I squealed just as he
landed on a rock that I hadn't seen right by the other big ones I could see. He
then fell on his back because he was laughing so hard at his Mom. (as was Paul
who was standing behind me). I cursed EVERY Beck boy at that moment. (Yes, ALL
of you! It's all your fault! ha ha.). Like I have said before, there is NO
DOUBT that my kids take after the Crazy climbing
Becks!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897119589" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897119617" style="right: auto;"> Anyhoo, it
was still a fun hike. A few days later I got to go with a friend to Poland for
the night. It's one of the trips I have wanted to do since we got here, and it
was so much fun. I bought a lot of fun polish pottery, and for an added bonus,
I'm now able to say that I have been to TWENTY countries! Pretty Cool, huh?
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897120690" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897120719" style="right: auto;"> The day after we got home, Paul
and I were given another awesome
opportunity.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897120973" style="right: auto;">One of my good
friends here was able to get tickets to a very elite classical concert in
Prague. It was a harpist and flutist, and her cousin was the flute player. It
was held in a Palace with less than 100 people there, and the U.S. ambassador
for the Czech Republic was there! Now, granted, Paul and I thought he was a
conceited dork. BUT< he was still there. ha ha. This was a very expensive
fancy event though. We were in a group of seven and had so much fun laughing
about our lack of knowledge pertaining to social decorum at an event like this.
AND, I even got to try caviar! (Another item checked off my bucket list
:)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897123373" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897122991" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897123021" style="right: auto;"> They served amazing sushi, and
mini creme brulees (one of my favorite desserts here in Europe), and all sorts
of other amazing delicacies that I so don't even know the names
of.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897123544" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897123575" style="right: auto;"> The eveing was really magical,
and I was so glad that Paul got to experience it with
me.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897123847" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897123879" style="right: auto;"> Paul and I
were also able to spend a night away the next weekend and go to the Frieberg
temple. The session was held in Hungarian with german and english translations
available. I LOVE all the languages and cultures that are nearby
here.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897125031" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897124610" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897124643" style="right: auto;"> This week,
Adam is at scout camp in Garmisch (Austrian border). We join him there on
Friday for a family retreat at the resort for the weekend (It's paid for by our
unit. I love perks like that). So we will be celebrating Timmy and Paul's
birthdays in the Alps. We're really hoping to finally make it up to the top of
the Zugspitze while there. It is the highest peak in Germany. We'll see if we
can work it
out.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897125840" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897125874" style="right: auto;"> Next week,
Adam and Isaac head to youth camp for boys, and Breanna heads to girls camp
(through our stake). I can't believe my twins are old enough to go to things
like that! It's going to freak me out to only have three kids at home for a
week. I'm so glad they get to experience things like that
though.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897126731" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897126766" style="right: auto;"> Adam also has a robotics camp
coming up, and possibly we will be able to get a few more day trips in here and
there</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897127104" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897127140" style="right: auto;"> We really
are excited to get back to the U.S, and move on to our next chapter. We're
happy to be leaving this current post. But there are definitely a lot of things
we are going to miss about Germany and Europe. We're trying to get in all we
can before we move
on.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897127922" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897127959" style="right: auto;"> I know this is horrendously
long, but hope it wasn't all
boring.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
I can't wait for what lies ahead.<br />
<br />
<div id="yui_3_2_0_20_134304713897125751" style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </div>
<br />
<div style="right: auto;">
<span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv1286972775tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="tab" id="yui_3_2_0_20_13430471389718111" style="right: auto;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </div>PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-90196812990321492532012-06-18T17:11:00.000+02:002012-06-18T17:11:22.095+02:00Children with IntegrityAWESOME kid moment today: We let our kids go to the shopette by
themselves to get some goodies. They noticed when the cashier gave them
their change though, that she gave them $5 too much. So they turned
back around, handed her the $5 bill, and informed her of the mistake.
She was very grateful and gave them a treat for being honest. Paul and I
couldn't be prouder!!! It's amazing to see them making awesome choices
like that, when no one would have noticed. Did I mention how proud I
am? ;-)PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-55357009455224599652012-06-11T16:34:00.003+02:002012-06-11T16:34:55.488+02:00Always a story. . .So, the other day, I was putting Angela down for a nap. I always sing her two songs before putting her down for bed or a nap. As I starting singing, she started singing back to me, in the sweetest little voice "No, no, nooooo. . . " I don't know if she was referring to my singing, or going to bed, but either way, it made me laugh (and I like to think it was just to the nap).<br />
<br />
Today, Angela kept begging and begging me for a cookie. "Cookie, please! Cookie, please" Well, I gave in, and as I pulled the bowl down so she could get one, she smiled ever so sweetly, pulled one out, and handed it straight to me while saying "Here, Mom." Well, I say, if she thinks I need to eat more cookies, well, by golly, I should eat more cookies.<br />
<br />
Also today, <span class="commentBody" data-jsid="text">I was telling my 8 yr old to clean up her room before dinner. She gave a look of fear, and I said "Is that a problem?" To which she responded "Well, I DO get distracted very easily!" (as if that's MY fault. LOL. Oh goodness. . .) She also thought it would help NOT distract her if I didn't let her brothers play video games (keep in mind, they are in another part of the house from her room) ha ha.</span><br />
<span class="commentBody" data-jsid="text"><br /></span><br />
<span class="commentBody" data-jsid="text">I was reminded today as I went to pick up Timmy from school, that if I ever need to pick him out of a lineup, I just need to look for the bounciest child. I saw his class walking by (from a distance), and sure enough, I was immediately drawn to the bounciest child, and THAT, ladies and gentlemen, was MY Timmy! ;-)</span><br />
<span class="commentBody" data-jsid="text"><br /></span><br />
<span class="commentBody" data-jsid="text">Last week, we were discussing travel plans with Grandpa Curtis, when he comes out for a visit. I mentioned that Grandpa had never been to Europe. Isaac acts all surprised and said "HOW is that even possible if he fought in WWII?" I just started laughing. And then gave a brief history lesson while mentioning Grandpa was born almost a decade AFTER the war ;-)</span><br />
<br />
<span class="commentBody" data-jsid="text">Have I mentioned lately how much I completely adore my children?! </span><br />
<span class="commentBody" data-jsid="text"><br /></span><br />
<span class="commentBody" data-jsid="text"><br /></span>PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-542430754277570392012-05-17T21:38:00.002+02:002012-05-17T21:38:54.591+02:00Funny kid moments May 2012More Fun =<br />
<br />
May 2012 -- Angela started calling me Lydia and saying "Hi, Lydia" and then when I say "no. . . you call me Mommy" she just laughs and laughs.<br />
<br />
Last week at the table, we were discussing going to the movies and Breanna said how excited she was to go. Paul said "Sorry Breanna, but they have a new rule posted at the theatre that no cute girls with curly hair can go." To this Isaac responded, "Well, then that doesn't affect Breanna cause she's not cute." and he started laughing. Paul said "Well, there's a rule that boys who are mean to their sisters can't go either", His response was "I am not mean. See? Hey, Breanna, GOOD JOB!" . We laughed and laughed. Love that boys goofiness.<br />
<br />
Two weeks ago, Timmy had his first soccer game. He LOVED LOVED it. He was grinning the whole time. His team lost, but you wouldn't know by watching it, because he was so happy. After the game was over, we were leaving the field, and Timmy sees a player from the other team, makes eye contact, points his finger, and says very exuberantly, "HEY! That was a GREAT game!". Then as we walked on, he muttered under his breath with a huge smile "That really WAS a great game!" Oh, how I love this boy.<br />
<br />
Last week, after picking up the kids after school, Breanna immediately turned to Isaac and said "Hey Isaac. What were you guys talking about at lunch today. I know I heard my name". He said "OH. "James" has a crush on you." Breanna turned up her nose, and said "That's weird." I asked her why and she said "Cause it's just weird". And I said "You think that it's weird that a boy would find you cute and fun?" To which she said "YEAH!". And then asked if she thinks it's weird that girls think Isaac's cute, and she said no. "But, you think it's weird if anyone likes YOU?" "YES!" she said! And I laughed at my silly little girl.<br />
<br />
Natalee was playing soccer, and they were given a water break,. She suddenly got down on all fours and crawled over quickly like "Smeagle" (from Lord of the Rings), grabbed her water bottle from Breanna, started caressing it and saying "My precious, my precious." . What a crazy girl! ha ha. She concerns me sometimes. . . .<br />
<br />
Then there's Adam. My mind is going blank on funny stories for him at the moment, but gee, I love the kid. He's got so much spunk, and his Mom's sarcasm (not always a good thing)<br />
<br />
I sure love my kids.<br />
<br />
PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-39053059767695483212012-02-29T08:54:00.011+01:002012-02-29T09:41:56.810+01:00Fun thoughts and quotes--Words of wisdom from my 5 year old= T: "Mom, you know how I make friends so easily?. . .Well, everyone just keeps joining and joining to BE my friend!" -Feb 28, 2012<br /><br />--"My thought for the day: I love my home so much better when my soldier is in it. . . But in the meantime, I will be happy in knowing he loves it more here as well . . ." --Feb 27, 2012<br /><br />--Uncle Josh:" I saw this on a card today, and it made me think of you. :) "I always wanted to invent something that would move around & make funny noises & would change the world as we know it & I forgot all about that until we had kids & now I see I came pretty close." :-) - Feb 19, 2012<br /><br />--"Cigarettes are like squirrels. They are completely harmless until you put one in your mouth and light it on fire."<br /><br />--Things that scare my children to death, SO make me laugh sometimes: Like baby Angela, who just picked up our remote, turned on the TV, and proceeded to turn the volume (on the static channel), ALL the way up. She dropped the remote, bolted, and cried in terror. I laughed. . . . (Do you think my kids will need therapy later? ha ha) - Feb 1, 2012<br /><br />My 10 year old (Adam) told an AWESOME joke yesterday. "What's black, and white, and red, and blue, and green, and purple?" "A lady wearing a white and red dress, that's climbing a black flag pole, wearing a purple hat, and a blue scarf, and carrying a green flag." Ha ha. I serioulsy laughed and laughed as it kept going and going. I did NOT see that coming. It opens a whole new REALM to jokes in our house. - Nov. 28, 2009<br /><br />--My 3 year old (Timmy) just told a friend. "Oh yeah? Well MY Dad can lift up my sister with his pinky!" (We may have to test that theory, in 11 DAYS!!!) - Oct 28. 2009<br /><br />--out of the mouths of babes. My daughter (BK) looked at a paper from school that talked about H1N1 and said "Mom, what's a Hiney shot?" :-) And when taking my 3 year old (TE) to the chiro today, he said "But mom, if he touches my neck, my head will fall off, like with a knife!" (I think his dad/ chiro has been gone too long. .. . ;-) - Oct 24, 2009<br /><br />--I asked my 3 year old today (Timmy) if he wanted to talk on the phone to his Dad for a little bit. He said "No mom. I want to talk a BIG bit!" :-) I just love him! - Oct 12, 2009<br /><br />--Thought for the day "Except For Ending Slavery, Extermination, Fascism, Nazism, and Communism,WAR has Never Solved Anything." - Oct 2009<br /><br />--my 3 year old (Timmy) was explaining to me this morning that Grandpa is bigger than his Daddy, because Grandpa's house isn't as tall. . . . .I SO love the logic of preschoolers. - Oct 8, 2009<br /><br />--conversation with my Timmy. Me "Did you take those cookies?" T: "Yes Mom, they were so yummy." Me: "You need to ask before you take something, okay? " T: "But Mom! It was just an accident!" I love it! :-) - Sept 28, 2009<br /><br />--Isaac did the lesson for FHE tonight. SO he started out with him acting out charades of animals and then taught us that we shouldn't shoot birds with sling shots (I'm glad I know that now) He also made badges for us that said "Don't kill birds". great night! - Sept 29, 2009<br /><br />--my LOL moment of the day: "I have no respect for gangs today. They just drive by and shoot people. At least in the old days, like West Side Story, the gangs used to dance with each other first." - Sept 2009PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-15117081345914895012011-11-21T12:01:00.015+01:002012-02-29T11:38:01.601+01:00More funny/ cute kid stories from the past. . .October 30, 2011-<br /><br /><br />"So, at church today, during the service, "N" leans over and asks me if she can go use the bathroom. I whispered "Sure, just make sure to walk reverently and quietly, and fold your arms." She looked at me, rolled her eyes, and then said "I don't need to go THAT bad.", and she did NOT go. I just started laughing. I mean, REALLY?! ha ha. Oh, that girl!"<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />October 28, 2011 -<br /><br /><br />So, I think we have an official first word for Angela. ("Mama" and "Dada"). She has been saying "oh, WOW" all day yesterday and today. Too cute!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Septemeber 28, 2011 -<br /><br /><br />"Playing tag/ peek-a-boo on all fours with my baby girl! There are some precious joys in life. And Her giggles make it magical!"<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />9/23/11 -<br /><br /><br />"I hate when I don't forward a chain letter and then the next day I die."<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Sept 20, 2011-<br /><br /><br />"So yesterday, My "T" man goes to kindergarten, and his teacher notices he got a haircut, and comments that she likes it. His response? "Yup! Business up front, PARTY in the BACK!" She wasn't sure she heard him right, and had him repeat it, which he did with even MORE gusto the 2nd time. For the record: No, we did NOT give him a mullett. ha ha. It cracked both myself and the teacher up. :-)"<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />September 16, 2011-<br /><br /><br />"My 10 yr (I) just said to me"Mom, if you're wondering why T (5 yr old) is mad, it's because he wasn't born in 2000. And that's the year of the dragon."Um,. . . well. . . .okay, then. (What does a mom even say to that? ha ha)"<br /><br />August 21, 2011 -<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />So our family was talking tonight about if we were in a circus, what job<br /> we would want to have and "T" (5 yr old) pipes in. I want to be the<br />killer, and kill clowns. . . . . but I would tell him jokes first." I<br />was laughing so hard, I was crying.. . . .Oh, that boy. . . . .though, I<br /> think it is time to take him to a REAL circus, so he knows, that's not<br />really a job. ha ha<br /><br /><br />July 25, 2011<br /><br /><br />My 10 (I) and 12 yr old (A) boys were just arguing about something when my 7 yr<br />old (N) daughter jumps in "Ladies, ladies, you're BOTH pretty!" (yes, I've<br />heard that phrase before. But LOVED that it came from her to her<br />brothers) LOL<br /><br />July 12, 2011 So, my Natty just came down the stairs crying and saying "Mom, I'm<br />just growing up TOO fast, and I'm not READY to grow up yet!" - - -<br />Aaahhh. . . bless her heart. . .I told her I'm not ready for her to do<br />that either. . . :-)But boy, it made me smile.<br /><br />June 12, 2011 --My baby girl Angela (9 mos. old) started dancing to our opening hymn at church today. It cracked me up. That little girl had music in her SOUL!<br /><br />"I dream of a better tomorrow . . .where chickens can cross the road and not have their motives questioned. "<br /><br />May 9, 2011 - Conversation with my 4 yr old today: T: "Mom, when daddy gets home, can we get a pool of honey?" Me: "a pool of HONEY???" T: "Yeah, a pool of honey!" Me: "NO!" T: "But why? it would be awesome!" (Can I just say I love that I had to actually explain to him why a "pool of honey" is NOT a good idea?! Love that boy!)<br /><br />--May 2011 -- In light of recent events, this is my quote of the day (borrowed from someone else) "The problem with quotes on the internet is that many are not genuine" - Abraham Lincoln (ha ha)<br /><br /><br />**And this is just a few extras I'm remembering from years past:<br /><br /><br />-Last year, 2010, Rachel and Corban came to visit. Adam came up to me one day, and asked if I would help him with a school project. He was supposed to tell me a story, and I was supposed to draw a picture of what he was telling me about. I said "Why don't you ask Rachel or Corban if they'll do it? They are MUCH better artists than me." . He got all exasperated and said "I Can't! It says Right here, it HAS to be a grown-up!". We all laughed at that one. ha ha<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />-At the age of 3, Timmy LOVED tomatoes (he still does actually). One day, I was slicing a tomato, as Timmy went running by, and I said "Here Timmy. You can have this tomato." He said "Oh, Mom. I don't like tomatoes." and I said "yes you do! You LOVE tomatoes." He responded with, "Oh, I do?" and plopped it in his mouth and ran off happy. Such a strange little boy. ha ha<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />--We were teasing the kids once about them not being smart (we were all smiling and laughing, it's not as mean as it sounds. ha ha). Breanna sat up tall, and said "We are TOO smart! There are only three kids in gifted ed. in our class, and Isaac and I? We are ONE of them!" She caught herself immediately after saying it, but we all (her included) just ROARED with laughter! And she may NEVER live those words down. ha haPLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-49441320458174170862011-11-21T11:43:00.016+01:002011-11-29T07:00:13.556+01:00A month full of ThankfulsSo this month, I took on the challenge of posting everyday about something I am thankful for. I made my daily post on Facebook, and really enjoyed doing it. (Keep in mind, these are not done in order of imporance and MOST thankful. I just listed them randomly, and daily events helped inspire some).<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />1- Today, I am thankful for "Halloween candy tax" which allows me to eat some of my children's spoils from the previous evening.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />2- Today I am thankful that I got my internet back (after having no connection for two days)-and for technology in general!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />3- I am SOOOOO thankful for my little girl, who turned 8 yesterday. She adds so much "N-attitude" to our home, and has so much spunk. Happy Birthday Nat Nat!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />4- Today I am thankful for my amazing children. ALL of them. They make me so happy and remind me how truly blessed I am. I especially like days like today, when there is no school, and they get to spend the day with me. . . . aaahhh .. . . .Life is good.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />5- Today I am thankful for sports, like soccer, that teach my kids what it means to play as a team, and the bonus, is it's so much fun for them and for us to watch! I LOVE IT! What a great Saturday. . .<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />5 1/2 (:-) ) So thankful for the special evening we had tonight at my Natty's baptism. I'm so proud of her! And so thankful for the special friends that came out to support her, when our dear families could not be here.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />6- Today I am soooooo thankful for my amazing Husband! This is the first year in quite a few that he has been around us this time of year, and I am SOOOO glad! He is my hero, my best friend, and my true love! I love <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1342519418" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=1342519418">Paul</a>!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />7- Today, I am thankful for my AMAZING Mama, and Papa! They LITERALLY are the reason I am the way I am (quirks and all. ha ha). They are always an incredible support, and I miss them terribly. I love my Mom and Dad!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />8- Today I am thankful for my Little Sister, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=193305290" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=193305290">Rachel Lindsay</a>! We share things like: the same goofy laugh, the same warped sense of humor, the same parental units, the same level of AWESOMENESS (:-) ), and are sooo very very different in so many other ways (But she really DOES try to help me look more stylish). I can't imagine my life without her!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />9- Today I'm thankful for ALL the sisters I have gained through marriage (theirs, and mine :-) <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1349589202" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=1349589202">Krista</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1655619983" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=1655619983">Alissa</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/JamieandJacobCurtis" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=1274201520">Jamie</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1336023928" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=1336023928">Carolyn</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=676584303" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=676584303">Julie</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1262394459" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=1262394459">Kali</a>, and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=679015433" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=679015433">Lindsay</a> ). I always wanted to know what it was like to have lots of sisters, and now, I just wish I could see them A LOT more frequently than I do. They're all wonderful ladies, and I miss them. Love you, ladies!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />10- Today I am thankful for all the amazing brothers I have! Every girl out there (and boy, for that matter), deserves to have a brother. They irritate me at times (but they do this on purpose. ha ha), but I truly adore them, and look up to each one. I Love all my brothers! (@<a href="http://www.facebook.com/jared.curtis1" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=1145613706">Jared</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SnowCurtis" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=555810692">Josh</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/theaaroncurtis" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=675070146">Aaron</a>, Shawn <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1655619983" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=1655619983">Beck</a>, Jared, Jason, Tom, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=193309498" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=193309498">Corban</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=601040806" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=601040806">Christopher</a>, @<a href="http://www.facebook.com/JamieandJacobCurtis" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=1274201520">AndJacob</a>)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />11- TODAY I am thankful For ALL veterans, past, present, and the sacrifices they make and have made for all of us! I'm especially thankful for the veteran that I get to kiss goodnight tonight, and am very mindful of those friends of ours in harms way right now. We always pray for you. Happy Veterans Day.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />12- Today, I am thankful for my mother and father-in-law, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000678226609" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=100000678226609">Bonnie</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000583631849" hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=100000583631849">Dave</a> Beck. They are incredible people, and did such a beautiful job raising their kids (I'm super partial to one, in particular ;-). They have always shown such love and support, and humor me, even when they don't quite get my humor. (ha ha). They're amazing and have taught me SOOO many things. I miss them and love them!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />13- Today I am thankful for a most beautiful primary program, and the lovely children that participated in it. Such wonderful testimonies and songs were shared. What a Wonderful day!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />14- Today I am thankful for dear friends, near and far. I have been so blessed to have so very many amazing friends in my life. They have helped pull me through so many bumps and curves along the way. It's always hard to part (when we move, or they move), BUT a sad goodbye is indirectly a blessing in disguise, because it means you care for someone THAT much! and THAT is a beautiful thing :-)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />15- Today I am thankful for dirty dishes. . . (or trying to be, anyways). It means we have been blessed with many mouths to feed, and we eat well. . . or at least that's what I'm going to say it means. . . . now if I could muster up the strength to be thankful for dirty laundry and dirty floors. . . ha ha.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />16- Today, I am thankful for the wonderful teachers out there that help enrich my children's lives, further their education, and challenge them to aim higher. It also helps when they adore my kids and tell me so, too. :-)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />17- Today I am thankful for hot showers, cozy sweaters, soft warm blankets and comfortable beds. . .. all of which make cold days and cold nights a lot more enjoyable<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />18- Today I am thankful for Fridays, and all the wonderful things it means: Pizza night, Movie night, nearing end of homework for the week, more time with kids and hubby, etc. TGIF<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />19- Today I am thankful to get to experience living in an awesome place like Europe, where visiting fun places is ALWAYS an option!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />20- Today I am thankful for the freedom of religion and being able to worship how, where and what I want. I am thankful for my Savior and his sacrifice for all of us.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />21- Today I am thankful for music. I love being able to sit at my piano, and play. I love that all my piano teachers hair pulling moments with me did NOT go in vain. Singing, playing instruments, or just listening to it, music is a part of me, and I LOVE it!<br /><br />22- Today, I am thankful for food, and the joy of cooking and baking. I LOVE to make yumminess for my family (as my waistline will confirm :-), and am so thankful for all the wonderful foods and flavors we have to enjoy.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />23- Today am thankful that my husband has a job that provides for our needs, (A roof over our head, food on the table, a safe environment to live in, etc.), and even some of our wants. . . . . It's not perfect, but I am thankful nonetheless. . . and even more thankful for that man of mine who works his tail off to provide for us.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />24- (Thanksgiving Day) TODAY: I am thankful for so very very much. I've been listing one every day, but feel the need to list my top fave thankfuls today: MY amazing hubby, my wonderful children, my entire family, the gospel, friends, music, and LAUGHTER! Oh, how I love to laugh and smile, and the aforementioned things all make me do JUST that! Happy Turkey Day EVERYONE!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />25- Today I am thankful for the beautiful scenery around me. THe trees, the rooftops, the sky, the hills. . . . . .I love God's artwork. . . .. .<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />26- Today I am thankful for four day weekends that my whole family gets to spend together. I love family time :-)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />27- Today I am thankful for the joy of the holidays and the wonderful traditions that come with it: Warm wassail always readily available, watching tons and tons of Christmas movies, visiting Christmas markets (or looking at Christmas lights), helping the kids make their Christmas gifts for each other, setting out my Nativities (and keeping a lookout for the next addition to my ever growing collection). I Love the Season, and the REASON for the Season!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />28: Today I am thankful for education, and the opportunity I have to further my own education. I really do love to learn. And I'm extra grateful for being able to finish my degree online, so that I can still be an at-home wife and mom for my hubby and kids.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />29: Today I am thankful for four seasons. Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, . . . I love them all. . . . and now anxiously await Winter officially arriving. Bring on the SNOW!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />30: Today I am most thankful for so many things to be thankful for! The last 29 days were just the start of my list, and I have so many more things that I didn't even get around to listing. I am so THANKFUL for my life. Life is good.PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-44978613527191123542011-11-21T11:34:00.002+01:002011-11-21T11:42:11.997+01:00Hooray for the Becks!Now, I understand that we are not supposed to be prideful. BUT, I think it's TOTALLY okay to be proud of your kids and the great things they are accomplishing.<br /><br />*Today, was the awards assembly for the first quarter at school for the Twins. Four awards are given out in each class, for the highest GPA in four different subject areas. Breanna got language arts/reading and the science award, and Isaac got the math award. Breanna also got chosen for an award called "Dining at the Ritz" which means she gets to go to a special banquet today and eat with some dignitaries, because of having the highest GPA in her class.<br />AND, they both made the Principals Honor Roll, which means straight A's. Only 6 fifth graders received this award, and they took 2 of those spots! We are so proud of them!<br />Adam also got straight A's for this quarter, which took a LOT of work! (middle school teachers get quite demanding). I was even talking to one of the teachers at P/T conference last week, and as he was looking Adam up on the grade sheet, I noticed that most grades in this teachers class were C's, D's, and even a few F's. There were also some B's sprinkled in, but very very few A's. It makes it even more of an accomplishment that he worked his tail off to get that A.<br />Grades aren't everything. We know this. It's a matter of seeing the time and effort being put in, and a goal accomplished that really thrills us.<br />Natalee and Timmy both had perfect report cards and are following awesome examples from the older kids.<br />We are just so proud. Hooray for my Becklings!PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-68575403264611153612011-11-21T11:26:00.003+01:002011-11-21T11:34:12.344+01:00I don't want to forget. . .There are so many stories that come out of my kids. I tend to forget many of them though, SO, I'm going to try and be better about posting them here (which later will turn in to a blog book), so their words, actions, and little personalities don't get forgotten about. . . .<br /><br />So, Timmy (my 5 yr old) walked out to me last night, and was all teary eyed, and said "Mom, I need something to remind me." and I said "something to remind you of what?" and he said "of Daddy." and I said "You miss Daddy?" He nodded his head with the saddest eyes, and I said "I have the best reminder EVER!" and walked him back to Daddy to get a real Daddy hug. I guess sometimes he forgets that Daddy's home now, and woke up thinking he was gone again. . . .Daddy got to snuggle and hold him for a long time then, and they just talked. Then, Daddy wrapped him up in my blanket (that has pictures of Paul all over it), and put him to bed. SO TENDER! I am SO thankful we have the real thing here with us this year! SO thankful!<br /><br />**Another tidbit: Angela today got into my pantry and found the potatoes and garlic, and decided that eating garlic like an apple is a good idea. She was quite enjoying the raw garlic cloves and did NOT like me scooping it out of her mouth. ha ha. Having a child eat plain garlic is definitely a first for us. ha haPLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-31636551835719759532011-11-12T01:55:00.005+01:002011-11-12T02:14:44.434+01:00Oh, Breanna Kay . . .<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUKed3L7zzWCyjHX22I3jgL1D29Eirmt4y4CwMqFotbWUEh5RorfnviITyMG_x9dGEllwGRxbv7pEUdQ3OeaM-ni9c10vVWfZJ_J2lHssO8ec6__n8EKNf_pbQjSzS3x807Y78hY2ftidM/s1600/October+2011+091.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673910597324519234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUKed3L7zzWCyjHX22I3jgL1D29Eirmt4y4CwMqFotbWUEh5RorfnviITyMG_x9dGEllwGRxbv7pEUdQ3OeaM-ni9c10vVWfZJ_J2lHssO8ec6__n8EKNf_pbQjSzS3x807Y78hY2ftidM/s320/October+2011+091.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>You know how in many families, the oldest daughter seems to just take over, as the responsible one? And she makes sure things keep running smoothly (or as smooth as possible)? Basically, she becomes Mom's assistant?</div><br /><br /><br /><div>Breanna plays this role to a "T." She is my "go to." I cannot believe how responsible this little girl is. Sometimes, I forget that she is only 10! (almost 11, but still). When she was a baby, she was given a blessing. In that blessing, she was told that she would be a "great strength to (her) Mother." OH, how true that is. I can't tell you how many times, I have been running around trying to get things done, and she has just stepped in and started helping where things need done. Her baby sister ADORES her! (and sometimes, Angela prefers Breanna over Dad, and even MOM too).</div><br /><br /><br /><div>She is compassionate. She is motivated beyond belief! I laugh about how much "type A" personality she has. If there's a competition to be won, she wants a piece of the pie. She gives her all to everything she does. She was the only student last year in her entire school (of 600+ kids), to get THREE "highest GPA" awards for a specific subject, in a semester. She thrives on that kind of achievement. She loves to play soccer, and is 100% immersed in those games. Wherever the Coach wants her, she jumps right in.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>I've been told by her teachers and coaches, that they know if they need something done, they can ask Breanna, and she'll do it with a smile.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>We've been fortunate enough to have not dealt with any "girl drama" amongst friends, because basically, most of her best friends are boys. She tells us that Isaac is her best friend. It's just easier to hang out with the boys anyways (they are the ones that want to play soccer and other active things.)</div><br /><br /><br /><div>She is quite creative and artistic, and has been known to create elaborate creations out of paper and tape alone.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>She LOVES dogs, especially German Shepherds, and is great with our huge mangy mutt, Teancum.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>She has a beautiful voice, and is a great helper in the kitchen.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I call her "B.K." sometimes, just because.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>She can be just a tad bit bossy sometimes. But it's only becuase she can see things that need done, and thinks everyone else should too, and tries to help them along. Although, not always in the best way. ha ha</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>She laughs more than ANYONE I know. Everything is hilarious to Breanna. She smiles so very much.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>She is such a beautiful young lady, and I can only imagine what is still in store for her. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I am so glad to have my B.K. in my life, and can't imagine HOW I would get by without her next to me helping. What an amazing momma's helper she is. I love my Breanna Kay!</div>PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-80261438544997006422011-11-05T22:37:00.004+01:002011-11-15T16:31:56.954+01:00Natalee's Baptism Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5dnaICtl3o_l9Y9uv12Sr55riYfpmIuOvwl1qCTW7tFYzCLEOrtSsNS5R1aRmrdu26Y9BxXmuC4LAJs-gD6xq91wfPse1Mm630Kq2EjzC0Yt_UpvG_cc4xRRI8G3IeucROkxWehxzfUJ/s1600/November+2011+adams+camera+and+nat+party+043.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 361px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5dnaICtl3o_l9Y9uv12Sr55riYfpmIuOvwl1qCTW7tFYzCLEOrtSsNS5R1aRmrdu26Y9BxXmuC4LAJs-gD6xq91wfPse1Mm630Kq2EjzC0Yt_UpvG_cc4xRRI8G3IeucROkxWehxzfUJ/s320/November+2011+adams+camera+and+nat+party+043.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675245078272948082" border="0" /></a><br />(I can't figure out how to turn the picture the right way . hmmmm. . . . . )<br /><br />Last week, on November 5, 2011, we got to experience a super special day. It was the day that my husband took our 4th Child, our 2nd daughter, into the waters of baptism, and baptized her as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.<br /><br />I felt a little homesick, as I prepared for the baptism and made programs and such. I realized, that we had to choose two witnesses. Our Dad's (the Grandpas) have been the witnesses for our three other children. The uncles and Grandpas have been the ones standing in the circle when they are given the gift of the Holy Ghost.<br />Yes, I did get a lump in my throat, and shed a small tear. I would have loved to have our families there to share in the joyous occasion.<br /><br />I love living in Europe. But there definitely is a price to be paid, and sometimes that price is painful.<br /><br />As we got closer to the date, I had friends emailing and calling to see how they could contribute. The night of the baptism, I watched as the little chapel filled up with people who have become dear friends of ours in our two short years here in Germany. Some of these individuals were L.D.S., some were not. But as the prelude music played, I realized that I DID have family here.<br /><br />Yes, I would have loved to have my OWN family. But that's the thing with the military. You become each others families when you are away from your own.<br />I love the people that came to Natalee's Baptism. They are my family in Europe. One of those dear friends, combined with us for the baptism, and baptized her son. It was wonderful to see both of these valiant children become our ward's newest members.<br /><br /><br /><br />I don't think a Mother can help but smile and cry a little as she sees her gorgeous baby girl, step into a white dress once more (like the white dress she was blessed in as a baby). She is beautiful! There's a song my Mother introduced me to years ago, called "What Heaven Sees in You". It talks about the three important white dresses an LDS girl will wear in her life. Her blessing dress, her baptism dress, and her wedding dress. "Pure and holy, in a little white dress. . .and the Father looked down, and the angels surround that place. They know the truth. All that you can do. And you will too, if you have eyes to see, what heaven sees in you."<br /><br />I see the potential for this strong willed little girl, and it brings me so much joy.<br /><br />At the end of the service, Bishop Andrus made a few comments. He told Natalee, that a change would happen in her. People around her would notice a difference. They would see a new light, and wonder what it was. The presence of the Holy Ghost would shine bright in my little girls eyes. It has only been a week since her baptism, and I can say, that his words have been absolute truth.<br />She has been a happier girl this week, then I remember her being before. Moments that would have set off a tantrum before, are handled with a deeper maturity. There is a new light in my daughters eyes, and I am so thankful to have the knowledge I do. I know what caused this new light. I am so thankful for the covenant of baptism, and the new beginnings it brings.<br />I know this gospel is true. I know that Jesus Christ is my Savior, and my Redeemer. I know that he suffered for me, so that I can return to my Father's presence someday. I am grateful every day to have been brought up in the light of the gospel.<br />The day after her baptism marked the first day that all three of my older children stood up in Fast and Testimony meeting and bore their testimonies. The Spirit was strong, and I felt my testimony strengthened even more.<br />I am so proud of my little girl, and feel blessed to have experienced her very special baptism day.PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-11487277178368551952011-10-23T21:53:00.006+02:002011-10-23T22:07:47.357+02:00My Scoopy!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbZOZY4iKC2VvyZgbuVkX3e_tOK2XD25EtEZnAIHRNkJZHE267Km_yM_j_jEYN9oHYP4iy7nQu-14gVY5pe-HtWaQ2DwskSz3yw3eKAmuhpfmHuQ5-IMd-0fnlPqyPFw9AUhmxmnYN1LKU/s1600/October+2011+099.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbZOZY4iKC2VvyZgbuVkX3e_tOK2XD25EtEZnAIHRNkJZHE267Km_yM_j_jEYN9oHYP4iy7nQu-14gVY5pe-HtWaQ2DwskSz3yw3eKAmuhpfmHuQ5-IMd-0fnlPqyPFw9AUhmxmnYN1LKU/s320/October+2011+099.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666780294255003250" border="0" /></a><br />So, today I'm going to tell you a little bit about my boy, Isaac. When he was a tiny baby, his Dad nicknamed him Scoopy. (We don't know why. He doesn't even know. He just did). Well anyways, it stuck. And that's what his family calls him sometimes.<br />He has one of my very very favorite smiles EVER. His dimples just melt me. He has this mischievous spirit about him. Sometimes, it makes me want to pull my hair out, but sometimes I just adore it, and it makes me laugh.<br />He has such a soft spot in his heart for little ones, and puppies. He can hardly stand to NOT pick up his baby sister if she is anywhere near him. He just loves to hold and cuddle her. He loves to go up to our dog and just pet and nuzzle him. He's a tender hearted boy.<br />He has such a great sense of humor, and will catch me off guard so many times with his little quips, and jokes.<br />He is really enjoying soccer and spends many recesses playing soccer with his sister, and any other kids that want to join in.<br />The boy has a mind for Math, and is so quick with it.<br />You can almost see the cogs a turning when you give him a math problem, and he spits the answer right back out.<br />He's actually won highest GPA awards in it, and has been making the honor roll, since he was old enough to.<br />One of the things that really is a skill, but drives his parents crazy sometimes: his listening skills.<br />There are so many times, we'll be trying to talk to the kids, and he will obviously be distracted by something else at that moment. So we get annoyed and say "Isaac! Repeat what I just said." and wouldn't you know it! That little stinker will recite almost the entire comment we had just made, almost verbatim! It makes us smirk when he does too.<br />He has taken an interest in "creature creating" lately, and enjoys just doodling new ideas. The boy just really makes me smile, and I like him a whole lot.<br />He tries so hard to be a good boy (but you can sometimes see the inner struggle he has with it. He just REALLY wants to eat that candy bar on the counter sometimes, that mom told him not to. ha ha)<br /> OH, and newest development, is that there are some girls that have crushes on him (word gets around). I knew it was only a matter of time with his wit, and those dimples (and brains to boot!) Breanna just gives a funny look and says "They have a crush on him? That's WEIRD!" ha ha. It's weird that he's growing up so much. (Almost 11 years now! WOW!)<br />Just thinking about him, makes me smile SOOOOO much. I'm so glad we have a Scoopy. What a great kid.PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-14974796112271697872011-10-21T09:36:00.003+02:002011-10-21T10:08:55.529+02:00Adam<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdub1V7Dg8y-V6j9bjlxnZYV7l-OBvF_fyevty8ivghZupp-Il0HY_2vG2310q-GGnbK0FEXa-qk4fEzhf6qQdiAKHRS7gH2cDecC78rU09kFK09Xry0IQblOcMcwkvpcIDEzRkeGttLxt/s1600/First+Day+of+School+Sept+2011+045.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdub1V7Dg8y-V6j9bjlxnZYV7l-OBvF_fyevty8ivghZupp-Il0HY_2vG2310q-GGnbK0FEXa-qk4fEzhf6qQdiAKHRS7gH2cDecC78rU09kFK09Xry0IQblOcMcwkvpcIDEzRkeGttLxt/s320/First+Day+of+School+Sept+2011+045.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665851824619387010" border="0" /></a><br />SO, let me tell you a little bit about my oldest. He's such a great kid.<br /> It still blows my mind that I could have a 7th grader, but I do! AND he's going to be 13 soon. . . . that's right, . . . a TEENAGER! . . . To be honest, I don't worry about him, ONE BIT during the teenage years.<br /> Every day, he takes an hour long bus ride to and from his middle school. The conditions on the bus are deplorable. Language is horrendous with the constant use of crude terms and even the "F bomb" is dropped numerous times. And these are only middle schoolers!<br /> Yet, here's my sweet son, who takes his Mp3, and tunes out to the filth around him and tries to ignore it. At the end of last year, there was even an incident of one sixth grader being bullied by an 8th grader. The 6th grader "J" threatened the 8th grader "B" that he would go to the principal. "B" responded by saying that everyone on the bus would back him up and say that "J" was the one that actually started it. Then "B" looked around and said "you'll all back me up, right?" To which, MY Adam stood up and said "I won't! You totally started this, and I'm not going to lie about it."<br /> "B" looked at him, then sat down. I was SOOO proud. Keep in mind, my Adam is one of the smallest kids in the school, and "B" is a large kid. Now, granted, it does help that I know "B's" mom, and he knows Adam and I (and it's been under good circumstances), but STILL, that took guts for Adam to do.<br /> He has not seemed worried about being bothered or bullied. I LOVE that he's comfortable with who he is. He doesn't like to see kids get picked on, and tries to do his part.<br /> He's been doing well in school, and has learned to play the trumpet. It is so fun for us to get to listen to him improving on it.<br /> We are getting to the end of this soccer season, and a little sad that this will be his last season of being on the same team as the twins. Those three are SO fun to watch together.<br /> Adam is a real leader on the field for the defense. He usually plays "sweeper" (for you soccer players out there :-) . He really commands this position! It's actually quite funny, because it's very noticeable when they pull him out of this position. Two weeks ago, we had an intense game. It was 1-0 late in the third quarter (our favor), and the coach pulled Adam out of the game to have a breather, and switched Isaac with an offensive player (Isaac is usually a guard for defense). Well within 2 minutes the other team scored TWICE> Adam's coach from last season was sitting by us, and was muttering "WHY would he pull Adam away from sweeper?!" After the 2nd goal, it was hilarious, when our coach, pointed to Adam, then out to "his position". He switched to sweeper, and there was an enormous cheer from our cheering side. It was hilarious! Adam stayed in as sweeper, and the other team was unable to score again.<br /> It's definitely not all him, but they have an amazing defense when you combine their powers (MY three are referred to as the "Beck trio").<br /> I love watching soccer.<br /> I really love seeing Adam's personality come out more and more all the time too. He is so fun to talk to. Most mornings, it's just him and I, since he leaves for his bus, before the other kids have to wake up. We have great talks.<br /> I am so happy that he has a great group of friends here. Our LDS group is really small, but they really seem to pull together and enjoy each others company. To me, that is a beautiful thing.<br /> Basically, I am so proud of my oldest child. He's a great example to his five younger siblings, and most of the time seems to understand that. He is so sweet and wonderful with those little ones too. Keep in mind, he still acts like a turd sometimes, and is still very much a kid. . . but I really like him. The end.PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-16863519121669996542011-10-20T15:21:00.002+02:002011-10-20T15:24:22.939+02:00Section 29This week in my Doctrine and Covenants class, I was given the opportunity to do a more thorough study of Section 29 (In D&C). 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line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif"">What are two important truths you learn from your study of section 29 concerning each of the following doctrines (six in all): the Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement? </span></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><u>The Creation:</u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal">1- <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">TRUTH:</b><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>By the power of the Spirit, the Lord created ALL things, both spiritual AND temporal. (D&C 29:31)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><u><span style="color:red">Importance of knowing</span></u></b><span style="color:red">:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>All that we see is created by God.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>No matter what man may say, they themselves are here because God created even them.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">2 - <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">TRUTH:</b><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The Lord’s work (creations), have no end. (D&C 29:33)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><u><span style="color:red">Importance of knowing</span></u></b><span style="color:red">:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>God’s creations did not end right after he created Adam and Eve.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They continue on today, and will forever more.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><u>The Fall</u></b>:</p> <p class="MsoNormal">3-<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"> TRUTH:</b><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>By transgressing the commandments (Adam partaking of the fruit), he became subject to the will of the devil, because he yielded unto temptation. (D&C 29:40)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><u><span style="color:red">Importance of knowing</span></u></b><span style="color:red">:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When we allow ourselves to succumb to temptation, we are more vulnerable to Satan’s plans and persuasions.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We should not allow ourselves to EVER fall into his snares.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">4- <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">TRUTH:</b><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The fall caused Adam to experience “spiritual death”, which is the “first death”( This is the same death that will be pronounced upon the wicked) (D&C 29:41)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><u><span style="color:red">Importance of knowing</span></u></b><span style="color:red">:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Though it may seem to some like a small infraction (the mistake that Adam made), it too would have separated Adam from God’s presence forever, had he not repented.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><u>The Atonement</u></b>:</p> <p class="MsoNormal">5- <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">TRUTH:</b><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They (the seed of Adam) should not die (as in, spiritual death), if they repent (and angels will be sent forth to declare repentance and redemption) (D&C 29:42)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><u><span style="color:red">Importance of knowing</span></u></b><span style="color:red">:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Even though we error and make mistakes, we can return to God’s presence if we rely on the atonement and repent</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">6-<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"> TRUTH:</b><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>“Little children are redeemed from the foundation of the world through mine Only Begotten” (D&C 29:46</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><u><span style="color:red">Importance of knowing</span></u></b><span style="color:red">:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There is no need to baptize babies, since they cannot sin (D&C 29:47).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Children should not be held to the same accountability as adults.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif"">**<u>What questions does this section invite you to ask concerning God’s plan of redemption?</u></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif""><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I believe this section leads one to ask HOW do we repent?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>How do we make sure our repentance process is acceptable to the Lord?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif""><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I am constantly amazed at all that God created for us, and of his infinite love for each of his children.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It is almost unfathomable to realize the depths of his love.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>What a great blessing to have the atonement available to each and every one of us.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Some days, I truly feel blessed.</span></i></p> --I really am grateful for opportunities like these, that help me to learn and grow.PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-53441780325563627462011-10-20T15:10:00.002+02:002011-10-20T15:18:24.508+02:00My kids & hubby<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYsf0l6UdVwdpdNRu13-ZpAvgxboBw80cj-myCOV4RCCCKu33lFCcN6jjCXK9BHBtiP4XiuxzZcrhKqQwJHGoXww9eBUl4yJrC0dT1USxkupCNQmFkMvt11YBl4Pux6ivBdmmNYmjqdvOb/s1600/Spain+and+July+2011+093.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYsf0l6UdVwdpdNRu13-ZpAvgxboBw80cj-myCOV4RCCCKu33lFCcN6jjCXK9BHBtiP4XiuxzZcrhKqQwJHGoXww9eBUl4yJrC0dT1USxkupCNQmFkMvt11YBl4Pux6ivBdmmNYmjqdvOb/s320/Spain+and+July+2011+093.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665563041857514578" border="0" /></a><br />I love this picture! (and can you see the bird diving down in the background? cool huh). This was taken on the beach in Spain, right in front of our apt. rental. What an amazing trip that was! (Details to come soon :-) )PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-68527615521890812192011-10-20T11:42:00.002+02:002011-10-20T15:21:26.407+02:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Ah2BDy-rfKUEkyU471lZ6jsvi4GFe9Yki-9S_htiwTETLdC4Qj5__DJW5JShFLyFHqU7CfMRIG1z58ouPTtnpeRup_YstsDm2dKngCNEQ9GfxcvtxhUaCMA24SZXNEhUHRHGSEi9f0YI/s1600/September+2011+050.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Ah2BDy-rfKUEkyU471lZ6jsvi4GFe9Yki-9S_htiwTETLdC4Qj5__DJW5JShFLyFHqU7CfMRIG1z58ouPTtnpeRup_YstsDm2dKngCNEQ9GfxcvtxhUaCMA24SZXNEhUHRHGSEi9f0YI/s200/September+2011+050.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665507865569468802" border="0" /></a><br />Another picture of my little munchkin.<br />Books are seriously one of her favorite things. She loves reading them and throwing them on the floor. Either way, it's exciting, and she loves books! :-)PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-28835417872293829892011-10-20T11:34:00.004+02:002011-10-20T11:41:58.547+02:00You so need to see how she's grown!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPcyG3Rhm4ET4A_T_PJYfzTKOU_wU1hojGGk-zmObKeSXpxErfkupuBSjtYOmU73aAYQwAZmCpE8fIE-I_iI6Y1w5UmNeCnxZ3xxGchS7JfHl5wKLhjthBFIj2fTgbQERQN5avDIqzLui/s1600/September+2011+006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPcyG3Rhm4ET4A_T_PJYfzTKOU_wU1hojGGk-zmObKeSXpxErfkupuBSjtYOmU73aAYQwAZmCpE8fIE-I_iI6Y1w5UmNeCnxZ3xxGchS7JfHl5wKLhjthBFIj2fTgbQERQN5avDIqzLui/s320/September+2011+006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665506765040027058" border="0" /></a><br />Just look at my baby girl! She's so grown up! and SO fun! She's 13 months now, and so full of life and happiness. She is still the happiest baby on earth and laughs ALL the time! She loves our dog (oh yeah, we got a dog. I'm not as thrilled, but the rest of the family seem to enjoy him:-)<br /> Angela also LOVES music, and will get annoyed if others try to interrupt her music time (on the real piano, or her play piano or drum). She loves shoes, and smiling, and crawling EVERYWHERE (but has no desire to walk. ha ha). She especially loves to empty out bags or buckets of their belongings. (this is NOT my favorite game to play.)<br /> IT's just her and me at home during the day, since all the other kids are in school, and we have a lovely time together. OH, I love this baby girl!PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-83695388428424281582011-10-20T11:20:00.004+02:002011-10-20T15:20:12.612+02:00A Soldier comes home. . .<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGN95G4Lidi0Zi-Ybk4ZXAAiotJxS_VOyWSzupYSOsjTAVh9QkoxTvInkLsNcUOT6cTQ84TQtfLJW_r2BhLX0nk6DInxuinHJq48Wd151aMHP5FWc8_XhnFlHddIS6eOabo0GaMIdZknN/s1600/Paul%2527s+homecoming+039.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGN95G4Lidi0Zi-Ybk4ZXAAiotJxS_VOyWSzupYSOsjTAVh9QkoxTvInkLsNcUOT6cTQ84TQtfLJW_r2BhLX0nk6DInxuinHJq48Wd151aMHP5FWc8_XhnFlHddIS6eOabo0GaMIdZknN/s320/Paul%2527s+homecoming+039.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665505137755617298" border="0" /></a><br />It is AMAZING what happens in a year!<br />Many good things have happened.<br /><br />In May, PAUL CAME HOME! (Let's blame my lack of posting on the blog to spending time with him and the kids instead ;-) <br /> <br /> I've had many times in my life that were filled with utmost joy and happiness that I thought I would burst. . . This is right at the top of that list. I can't quite say it was the happiest day of my life, but Pretty sure it is tied for that position (along with my wedding day and the births of all six of my children).<br />I was so nervous the day of and the day before he got home. I had butterflies, and could hardly eat. Funny enough, as I think about it, I get teary eyed. . . It is truly a magical amazing moment. To be separated from the love of your life, your best friend, your helpmeet, your spouse for a YEAR, is crazy! To reunite, is indescribable. I just couldn't stop smiling.<br />There's a song "I could not ask for more" that kept reeling through my head, because I found the lyrics SO appropriate to my feelings in that moment when I finally held him in my arms again. "These are the moments, I thank God that I'm alive. These are the moments I'll remember ALL my life. I've found ALL I've WAITED for, and I could not ask for more. I could not ask for more than this time together, I could not ask for more than this time with you. Every PRAYER has BEEN ANSWERED, every wish I had's come true. . . "<br />I just saw a picture today, and it put me right back in that moment. It seriously brings me tears of joy.<br />I can't help but think of our Father in Heaven and the reunions that are constantly taking place above us. Going through a deployment separation REALLY helped me see the heavenly perspective that is there. When we talk about the joyous reunions that must be taking place when someone we love passes on, I can visualize even MORE what that must be like! and WOW! Reunions full of LOVE are amazing.<br />I can't believe it's already been five months since he came home! WoW! It's flown by. I am hoping and praying it continues to go that fast for my dear friends who are experiencing deployments right now. I look forward to the tears I will shed on their behalf when they are reunited again. Oh what joy! I love my life!PLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449446491129036313.post-8903521742365535922011-01-09T10:05:00.006+01:002011-01-09T10:33:18.838+01:00Update picture<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlEIPMXsiT-iIVX5q-MlLnOlzDWJWjDK7MTlcbwIsyj4gEZFzZYs29lmxUypYEQ9xRuaFon8eYk0XPKZGENEo3x4Hy7tuG3Md8uzfgQBn_rYc91q-rJol0oM5b-KzdRTUHYqAaDJ-RjNwR/s1600/Top+secret+004.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlEIPMXsiT-iIVX5q-MlLnOlzDWJWjDK7MTlcbwIsyj4gEZFzZYs29lmxUypYEQ9xRuaFon8eYk0XPKZGENEo3x4Hy7tuG3Md8uzfgQBn_rYc91q-rJol0oM5b-KzdRTUHYqAaDJ-RjNwR/s400/Top+secret+004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560116497197532386" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhblF8UXFLarBgo3jnYDGEtEKmGDRIyO-K1fC3HtszmlWEyNirHEnKuM61wfPLcoiJKfdB4d8nYad9yhxX3BznS-K1xgy95qfhUS9ng4UBpdq_3JX4T1NfDLJr3zYjHyfBfMn_G72dS52-J/s1600/Top+secret+010.JPG"></a><br /><br />She gets more and more beautiful every day! Seriously, the happiest baby I've ever known. She brings so much joy to our family! We so love our Angela IsabellePLBeckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10128353396631462678noreply@blogger.com1