"I Built This Garden For Us"

Doug and I have talked about being prepared for quite some time. However, their has always be some sort of excuse. Whether it was we didn't have the extra funds, being in school, time, etc. With the scary economy and job market one thing I think we all need to do is become more self-reliant. I am not sure if it was our dirt backyard, being in the wilderness for a few days, or inheriting a green thumb (from his dad). Doug decided to plant a garden. With the size of our backyard we could probably plant a nursery, however watermelon was his choice of seed. I think it was smart to start with one thing. Truthfully I am anxious to see if it works. Luke and Doug have been watering it religiously and sun has been on our side.

And you all know that being a "farmer" comes with a price. Don't you just LOVE the sexy markings it gives you? Hopefully, come June this farmer tan will pay off babe!

SPT--The First Thing That Attracted Me To You Was.....

Our Wedding Day
Dec. 27, 1995

Hmmm this was a tough one to narrow down. Was it....

14 years later do we look the same?
Your devilish handsome looks?

Your compassion?

Your dark edgy side?

Ability to have fun?

Your poise?

Your mean cooking skills--especially Thai food?

Your wit? OR...

Canyon Lake
June 1995

Your adventurous fun side taking me to the lake on our first date?

Because ALL of these traits attracted me to you, it wouldn't be fair to leave any of them out. All of these make up the Doug I know and love. Love you honey!

Missionary Dinner

I admire this man who takes his calling so very seriously. I can only imagine the different stresses he has juggling work, young mens president and our family. And yet he does and relates so well to the youth, even if it entails spending your Friday night planning an activity. Doug currently has approximately 6-7 boys that have just graduated from high school. He would love to see each and every one of them go out and serve missions. Therefore, he organized a "Mission" night and had 4 leaders come over with different foods from where they served. Everyone that knows Doug, KNOWS that he can make some pretty mean eggrolls. As I helped him prepare the ingredients I couldn't help but smile at the giddiness he had remaking the food he ate for a solid 2 years. Elder Clouse's (aka Som Kit's) Process:

Ingredients: cabbage, shredded carrots, bean sprouts, cooked ground pork, vermicelli asian noodles, a dozen eggs, salt, pepper, and oyster sauce.

Using spring roll wraps, putting just the right amount and wrapping them into desired form. Because the recipe is so large it normally yields 80 Thai Spring rolls.

It wouldn't be right if we didn't add sticky rice as a side dish. The best part you can mold it into balls in your hands and eat with your bare fingers. Yummy!

Watching the boiling vegetable oil, very very carefully.

These eggrolls have a serious technique, if not followed properly you can end up with an unpleasant result (not to mention the smell of burned grease in your home).

Luckily, that wasn't the case and we ended up with some delicious golden brown authentic Thai eggrolls (yes, they are as good as they look)

Note: Preparations began approximately 3 hours before the actual guests arrived. I personally like to have the kitchen rid of grease or any dishes (not too shocking eh?) I was also anxious to see what the other leaders had on their "menus."

Our spread included a Peruvian seafood dish, black beans and rice (Guatemalan style) and the best good old fashioned Omaha, NE steaks.

My cute friend Tiffany (I love this photo of you!)

Allen and Talin

Doug was thrilled with the turnout and the food asortment was fabulous.

Bishop Brown, Adam, baby Nash, Ashton, and Reese

Brother Meeker, James, Talin, Rockan, Bishop Brown, Allen and Doug

We finished up dinner and the young men had their "Missionary Training" class. We were strongly advised to take the children downstairs to play.

The boys watched Toy Story 2, while we sat and chatted amongst ourselves (coffee talk style)

Weston, Luke, Hershal, and Bo

Baby Nash just sat in his momma's arms as cute as can be. Quite a success if I do say so myself!

Five For Friday Rewind

1. I never like finding new doctors, places to eat, and especially getting my hair done. Unfortunately it's inevitable to make new choices moving into a new territory. After asking around, I had several recommendations as to where I should get my hair cut. But, the bottom line for me is I don't like spending a lot of money on my hair. It's one of my least favorite things about me. Anyways, after making several phone calls and gasping at outrageous prices for hair (people I know are paying close to $200!) I settled for Sara. I went out on a limb this time and told her I wanted a Reese Witherspoon haircut. I normally never go for the famous haircuts, because truth be told they almost always don't turn out the way you envisioned them. Actually the last I did that (way back in New Orleans) I looked like Dorothy Hamill! I must say I was pleased with the results and really I can't complain too much since I only go twice a year.

ta da!

2. Friday was my dreadful trip to Sam's Club. I hadn't been in weeks which means I needed to stock up on several items, not to mention my lack of freezer space! It makes me crazy. However, after coming home and cooking up all of my hamburger meat (I do this to freeze it into bags) It makes it so convienent to grab cooked meat to prepare dinner. I couldn't help but realize how much I LOVE my gas stove. I was completely terrified at first of the thought of owning gas, but after I got used to it, it has been so handy. And cooks in less the time!

3. After himming and hawing for several weeks, I took one of my musically inclined friends over to play the piano I have been drooling over. I knew the outside was beautiful, but as most know the inside is the key to a good piano. Martha brought her daughter along who is an amazing pianst to test out the keys. Upon leaving she turned to me and said, "if you don't buy this I will!" With those words, I knew I couldn't pass up this steal. We brought her home on Saturday. I love that this room is starting to fill in. Yay!

4. Last night Doug and I went out for the first time in what seemed like weeks. We normally go out at least one night each weekend, but due to crazy schedules, vacations and what not it hasn't happened. He decided to take me to one of his latest most favorite restaurants, Firebirds. We ended the night going to see Eagle Eye. In my opinion it was entertaining, but pretty cheesy. We definitely need some good movies to be released, there haven't been any for sometime.

5. I failed to mention over our vacation that Jared has become even more infacuated with legos. When we were up at Craig and Esther's last weekend, my cousin Ryan had just about every Star Wars lego in a box that you could imagine. The look on Jared's face was priceless. I am kicking myself for not even photographing what he accomplished in just a short amount of time. He was beyond excited when Ryan allowed him to open up this brand new box of legos. Jared spent hours (2 straight days to be exact). Each minute he had he worked at getting it together. We caught him up with a flashlight at midnight! Since then Doug has figured out that you can get online and find various instructions how to build different ships, etc. Due to our big stash (can you see on the floor) we have plenty to concoct just about whatever you want. I have to admit it's nice to have Jared entertained for hours without hearing the words, I am bored mom!

Our lego boy!

The Hustler

.Mtn View Toros
1989 Season
(Doug #20--sexy in those short shorts!)

Doug takes great pride in the sports he participated in as a youth. He also took them very seriously. (Umm we still have a "cut" net from 15th ward championship--need I say more?) The best way to describe Doug is he was definitely a team player, not the one who scored the most points, but man he could hustle. His heart was into the game. This was a quote "man he could hustle" came directly out of the mouth of his coach at a banquet during high school. Gotta love Gary Earnst and his honesty:) Anyways, it always gives me a good laugh to hear Doug reminisce about his "glory" days in sports. It's funny how perspective changes when your own kids begin to play competitively. It's then you realize you weren't "awesome" like you thought you were as a youth, just average. I think Doug and I both can say that after watching old football game videos and cheer videos of myself. Hilarious.

Jared in action with the ball
(not a good photo--but you get the point)

Well, we opted out of the competitive league for basketball and placed Jared in a basketball camp for 3 months at Home Court America. It was great because he learned proper techniques and no games were involved, just practice. Saturday was his last day, which also was a tournament. It gave the boys a chance to play against other teams. At the end they awarded some boys with most shots made, best hustler, and something else (I don't recall what) Jared ended up with the best hustler award not only for the day but the entire season. You can only imagine the gloat of his dad. Another Clouse hustler. So proud! The funny thing about Jared is he only knows one thing, speed. I think that is why most of the time he would get the ball back go down the court and loose control of the ball. That boy can run! (being short has it's benefits :) Good job Jared!


blessing: keeping old journals and photos to look back on.

Four Lettered Word

Remember this day back in July? Doug received a phone call from his friend this afternoon informing him he just got his board scores in the mail. He automatically walked out of the house. I was a bit puzzled until he said I am walking to the mailbox. I seriously got ill all of a sudden. My stomach had instant butterflies and my heart felt like it was pounding outside of my chest. As he walked back into the house, I said, "well........" (four letters can mean VERY different words Pass or Fail. I was beyond relieved when the reply was an excited:

I am SO glad this milestone is behind us, now we won't have to worry about another exam at least for 2 years! I am so proud of you honey!! Way to go!

Five For Friday

1. I was just thinking about all the stages my kids have gone through. Each have been so different in their own ways. It is next to impossible what to expect. This is Luke's latest obsession. For quiet time he gets his blanket or "rag" and sits on the couch to play his older brother's game boy. He probably would play it all day if I allowed it. Funny he didn't even notice me taking this picture. I guess it is about time we buy him his own.

2. The other day as I was perusing the aisles at Wal-mart. I noticed the Halloween section was put up, and this item immediately caught my eye. I know to most candy corn is disgusting, but for me I can't get enough...especially Brach's. I couldn't resist my temptation and bought not one but two bags to fill my jar. And just look it's almost gone!

3. This is a very tired Doug. Most of the week is spent in his car, at least he has a new one to travel in right? I had to laugh at this photo because for the past three years he has covered a high school (TMI) it was a private military school and the colors were orange and black. This year for his fellowship he is the team doctor for another high school in Media Valley. Apparently these colors or schools flock to him because they have the same mascot (Tigers) and are orange and black. I guess it works for the month of October.

4. Angie and I went to lunch today. We ended up at Champps since we haven't been in a while. The older ones were fine, Weston was definitely a treat. Ahhh, the good ol' terrible two's. And yes, we got the sisters comment once again.

5. We got our final check from John today. We officially have no more strings tied to the Mazda. Happy day! And guess who called? John? Nope. Me of course, harassing him ONE last time. The best part was, when I called yesterday to stop by, he ho hummed on the phone and said (imagine some awkward silence) " Ummm...I don't have my check book can you come tomorrow?" I showed up today, and had to wait of course since he was on a test drive. What's that? Anyways, he pulled up and said, Ms. Clouse you are just in time! I just went to the bank. Oh, goodie!! I shook his hand and gladly walked away NEVER to set foot at that place again.


good deed: washed Jared's football pants even though I told him to wear them dirty...he wouldn't have it. Who's child is he anyways? :)

New Motto

Doug started his fellowship off with a bang Wednesday (5 cases) to be exact. Two phones in tow with green scrubs on. Despite his busy schedule, I haven't seen him this excited about work in a while. Maybe because he is no longer having to rotate on different services, but doing the specific thing he loves, Sports Medicine. I hope this is the case forever because he will be doing it for the rest of his life! A little added perk is, since the Dallas Cowboys are doing their training here in San Antonio they let the (2) fellows go down and hang out on the field. They are there to assist any injuries, which is a rare occurrence. Unfortunately, the players aren't allowed to sign autographs (due to some sort of media thing) I was secretly hoping he could have something signed for the kids, but no luck.

Kids relaxing watching "The Son of the Mask"
after a crazy morning.

With Doug keeping pretty busy I decided to do the same thing and get my kids involved in several things. It makes life a bit crazy, but the crazier life and running around I do the faster time travels. Doug says our new motto is staying busy. So we are doing just that. Football practice is going well and we ended up moving Jared down to the "midget" team (The Cowboys) which is purely 7 year olds. Him and his friend were playing up to be with another buddy. They were initially bummed leaving a friend, but I think it will be better and they will get much more playing time. Plus the coaches are 10X nicer and I haven't heard any yelling!!

My van that gets us from point a-b
Luckily I love driving it!

Taylor has decided to "try" basketball this year. Yet another thing to keep us entertained. The downside to all of these extra things is the mean price at the pump. Ouch! I just filled up my 2nd tank of gas in a week. Normally I go a tad longer. In the midst of all of our running around my two little boys have been champs, seriously. I have had to do some bribery (mainly for Taylor). Luke pretty much goes with the flow and Weston has been doing great potty training on the road.......bushes and all!

Weston in his new cars pants
How cute is that???

He did have a "first" time moment this morning and actually told me he had to use the restroom. Hurray! He also managed to do a #2 (sorry graphic) on the potty today as well. Yay! I praised for about 30 minutes of clapping, etc. You do what you have to do. But, as I type we had a little relapse. I guess it just goes with the training. (sigh) I keep telling myself positive reinforcement will get me further, which is testing my patience to extreme measures. I am sure by the end of the month I will be complaining with all of the games and sports. I guess I better get used to it, because I have a LOT more years ahead. :)

good deed: sat at Jared's practice for 2.5 hours.

Doug Returns

Yesterday my grandma and I ventured out to Scottsdale to go shopping for my birthday. (I am beginning to think my birthday is the entire month--yay for me). She always says she would much rather take me then send something in the mail. She got me stocked up on my MAC makeup and a cute outfit for church. Thanks gram!! I also managed to get Taylor some stuff for her birthday as well.

Charleston's self portrait

Doug finally made it back to Phx after a 2 hour delay and has decided that he is done with traveling for a while. (remember his last trip?) He is glad the test is over, and sadly doesn't feel any sense of relief because he won't find out the results until October. Talk about painful!! Grandma Dorothy was sweet enough to watch our kids the ENTIRE afternoon so we could have some time alone. We ended up at Charleston's for lunch and then drove around looking at houses in the Gilbert area. When we were out driving around we saw an accident right after the fact. I turned to Doug and asked if we should stop. The one guy was still in the car and so he went over to check on him. You could see the foam coming out from the airbag still. It was a head on collision (so scary). Luckily no one was seriously injured, just a little shaken up. You can kinda see the cars... (but hard because of all the firetrucks). I tried to call 911 and it rang for about 15 times and a recording came on saying call back. What?? Someone else was able to get through and the police were there in a matter of minutes.

Pecos & Higley Intersection

After driving around we headed back and the weather was surprisingly nice so I took the kids across the street to see the horses (or I think baby mule). Weston being the animal lover wanted to climb the fence and see him.

Weston talking to the horse.

Today I was able to hook up with the Zonie blogger girls. (Janae, Amy and Michelle) We met at Michelle's house and then headed over to Bajio's for lunch. Everyone was so sweet and Michelle even bought my lunch!! The great thing was you would think we would have known or met each other before. It was fun to talk and discuss who knows who, etc. Thanks ladies for a fun afternoon.

Michelle, Janae, Amy and Me

Well, I am off....we are headed out tonight with my dad and his wife Susanne for dinner. Even though we have been here for over a week I still feel like there are a few more people we want to see. Looks like this week will be just as busy as last.

good deed: stopped for a traffic accident