Five GREAT Reasons For Friday

Notice I am giving the thumbs up.

1). There is a reason I set my alarm for this time, and NO it wasn't to get up and run.

2). There is a reason I CHOSE to take Hwy 101 N. and drive during rush hour.

3). There was a reason I happened to take Exit 5, Sky Harbor Airport.

Me and Ang
Getting our racing bags, chips and numbers

4). There was a reason I found my best friend waiting for me on the North curbside, door #8. Angie flew into town to spend a weekend with me!

5). And last, but not least there was a reason she came to play AND we attended this Expo downtown (which we decided at the last minute) We both registered for the PF Chang Rock and Roll Marathon. We may be crazy, but hey we're doing it together. Wish us luck!!

good deed: allowed Doug to watch 4 hours of his favorite show (and I never complained or said a word about it).

Five For Friday

Friday five randomness is something I look forward to each week. Often times it can sum up a few photos that you absolutely have no idea to elaborate about. It could be a funny moment in your week that you don't want to forget or even some off the wall comment you over heard at the grocery store. This Friday in particular it ended up being about one of my favorite colors. The odd thing is, it's not a color you find me wearing, but rather more accents here and there around my house. Especially the kitchen.

1. I am probably one of the last people on the planet to own one of these beauties. (it only took 13 years). I was beyond thrilled when my in-laws offered to get us one for Christmas. The best part, is this is the color I have been wanting. I went back and forth between the green apple and the red. And I think the red was definitely the way to go in my kitchen. I just LOVE looking at it on the counter.

2. This purchase was one of those last minute deals we passed on the aisle at the grocery store. Taylor has been on a panini kick lately and heaven forbid if it doesn't have those "grilled" lines on the sandwich. Since Panini's were on the dinner menu this week, I figured why not. We got this red George Formin for only $25. Not too shabby!

3. This next lovely is another red item I can't seem to live without. Doug bought me a set of measuring cups from here a few years ago. They are seriously awesome! They are not only super easy to clean, but they collapse down flat so they can fit easily in any drawer.

4. By now I am starting to sound like an infomercial. My last ticket item that we can't seem to get enough of around our house is these red box rentals. Seriously, who ever invented these and stuck them in grocery stores, Walgreens, and Wal-marts were genius! You can't beat a new release for .99 or this flick for that matter.

Weston 6 months, Taylor 8 years

5. This has absolutely nothing to do with the kitchen, but is one of my favorite photos of Weston as a baby. Ironically, it also goes along with the red theme of the day. There you have it, my five quirky things of the week. If you haven't posted a five for Friday I highly recommend it! It's quick, easy and fun.


good deed: helped Doug paint his office.

Five For Friday

1. Various topics come about at park play day. It's actually a great chance to get out of the house and get some adult conversation. Yesterday we got on to the topic of sex offenders. Ironically, the police officer spoke to the boys about this the other night and it peaked my attention. I have checked a few years ago to see if there were any in our neighborhood. Luckily, at the time there wasn't. However, yesterday I decided to once again check out the area (on this website) and I about fell out of my chair. We had two former offenders just walking distance to my house. I think it's time I get some mace! Scary!

2. Wednesday I went visiting teaching. I have been partners with Anna for about 4 months now. I thought I was on top of the ball with things, but I have to give her credit for making us go each month. She is definitely a great example. And if that wasn't enough, her and her husband have agreed to watch our dog when we go out of town. What a blessing to have wonderful neighbors!

Blue Bonnets 2007

3. We have had a really dry winter this year. I am a bit saddened by this because I have a feeling we won't be getting any lovely blue bonnets this year. Doesn't mother nature realize this is our last spring in San Antonio? Normally, you don't have to "jump start" the yard with water because of wet winters. Since we are trying to make our yard look more presentable I have been faithfully watering it each day. I can see little green blades underneath the dead grass, I just hope it works!


4. Last night was Jared's official baseball practice. This is the first year we are attempting little league. They had tryouts or "placements" a few weeks ago. Jared happened to be ranked in the top ten (which really surprised me) Not because I don't think he is good, but because most of the top kids played fall ball. Jared hasn't played since last season. Because of this placement Jared's coach hand picked him for the team (no pressure) Unfortunately, last night Doug said he had a tough time hitting the ball. Hopefully, it was just an "off" night. This is also the first time playing machine pitch. Should be interesting.


5. I've got my comfy clothes on (my uniform jeans and t-shirt) and am off to Angie's for a creative Friday!! Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend.

**Did anyone watch Lost?** (I think this is the best season yet!)
**What did you think about American Idol?**

blessing: having healthy children (the flu seems to be all around us!)

Five For Friday

Sweet Meg "enjoying sleeptime" during our chocolate indulgence.

Holy cow I have NO idea where this week went other than it's Friday! And I haven't posted since Tuesday. What's up with that?? I can't even remember the last time I have missed that long. I hope to catch up with you all soon. Without going into obnoxious detail, here is pretty much what my week has consumed of ...........

(left to right)
sara, ellice, jenny, angie, kristen, and nicole

1. Tuesday evening was Angie's shower. I originally was going to do a "favorite things" party in honor of her, but somehow it didn't happen. We ended up at the melting pot (which was my first time) and it didn't disappoint. We shared two pots of chocolate fondue. One was smores and the other was original. The smores was my favorite. The bummer part was we had a LAME waiter. I think once the gratuity is automatically added (for parties of 6 or more) they seriously quit working. I had a great time except for the morning after hangover. Oh, and we didn't leave until 45 minutes after it had closed. Whoops! (We were clueless as to when they closed until asking).

"Merry Maids" getting sonic drinks
Gotta love Happy Hour!!

2. As I mentioned in my previous post Ellice and I were up at Angie's to help get her house arranged and organized. I think it looks fabulous! We couldn't have done it without the help of Sara. She offered to take the little ones while we headed up to finish up. Yesterday we tackled the last room (the craft room). Which is HEAVENLY. (sorry no photos) I can't believe I didn't document more inside photos, I guess we were a little preoccupied. Maybe soon.............

Gordon Home

3. I took this photo driving up the other day. (without permission--I couldn't resist!) The photo doesn't really do the home justice. Is it not beautiful? They are the center of a caldesac up on a hill. Instead of digging the house down (which would have created 0 backyard) they built the house up. The bummer part is there are 2 flights of stairs from the garage to get to the main floor. (bummer for groceries, and box carrying) They are still without phone, internet and television--hence no new updates. They are hoping to be back in the world this weekend, but it's looking pretty grim. The cable guys are having to dig up yards to place in wires. Poor Greg just wants to watch the Superbowl inside his new home. I am crossing my fingers for them!!

4. This unexpected thoughtful package came at such a great time. I had the worst day on Wednesday and look what showed up at my doorstep? Thanks Amy for thinking of me. I have already started using the notebook!


5. One word to describe last night. EXCITING. I am so happy that Lost is back on. I was having some major new show withdrawals. I was a bit skeptical as to how they were going to do this season. You would think it would be over since they are now "rescued" But the writers did a great job and of course left us hanging, wanting more. I also got sucked into the new Eli Stone show. I thought it was cute and humorous. I hope to catch up with you all soon--thanks for all of the sweet comments you left. Every one gives me a smile. Happy Friday!!

**Did anyone watch Eli Stone?**

blessing: BOM scripture study as a family

Five For Friday --SPT Spin

1. Since I never got around to my SPT Tuesday I decided to insert it with my other 4 happens of the week. I think the name of my blog is pretty self explanatory. When I first began blogging I had titled it Clouse Clan M.D. Not because I wanted every Tom to know my husband was a physician, but we had three other Clouse family blogs (at the same time) and that was the way I made ours different. Since then I have gone around and around as to what name perfectly fits our family. If it's isn't portrayed enough on my blog my analness for organization is pretty obvious. Ha! Add that with my husband, 4 children and now dog you can pretty much just spell out MAYHEM. Hence the title. But, since I am not fully satisfied with that "title" I decided to change our blog header to our family motto. Doug has been using this phrase (happiness isn't found at the end of the road, but along the way) since the beginning of medical school and I actually really LOVE it. We have definitely been on a long "bumpy" journey and I think life is like that no matter who or where you are. I think this may be the birth of my new header (maybe with photo changes now and again).

2. Jared had his first cub scout meeting on Wednesday. He was beyond thrilled to start learning the skills of a "wolf" In fact he was SO excited he already read the cub scout "wolf" book from cover to cover. Kinda funny. I couldn't help but feel a little overwhelmed with the responsibility I am about to take up with it. Yes, I know I am not a leader, but still. Believe me I know this doesn't come close to the real "boy scouts" (those of you are laughing at me...Kelly A. :) It will take some getting used to (4 meetings a month), learning the lingo, buying the stuff and trying to understand it. This puts achievement days to shame for sure.


3. Today was moving day for the Gordon's. Angie was stuck at her new house and asked if I wouldn't mind stopping by to photograph the moving truck (for memory sake). I lost it emotionally when I drove up. Her house was nearly empty, the realization hit home. Hormones! On the flip side, I do know they are still close by and I will definitely make the most of our last 7 months with them in Texas!


4. I have been meaning to call Weston's PA (Dawn Youngblood) for over a week now. The only reason we have stayed in the University system was for her. I have not been impressed with any other of the pediatricians. I FINALLY remembered to call this morning and couldn't believe my ears. The secretary explained how she didn't work in the clinic anymore. What!?? After prying for some information she informed me that Tuesday was her last day because she was deployed to Iraq. I couldn't even bring myself to make Weston's follow up appointment. I was completely thrown off guard and so sad. The thought of having to explain all of his medical history to another doctor is just not appealing. I may be switching offices after all.

Waiting in the church parking lot, killing some time

5. My in-laws made it into town last night. (Dad Clouse really is as silly as this in real life). He has a great since of humor and LOVES to tease. I feel so fortunate to have such wonderful inlaws. I say that in the most sincere way, they really are great. Today we spend much of the morning running errands for Jared's big night tonight (Pump It Up Party) and last minute baptism things. I think I am officially ready for Jared's big day. My talk is written, matching ties/dresses found, (yes I am doing THAT again) shirts ironed, baptism bag ready and all of the other small details. Yay!


blessing: having a supportive family

Trying To Keep Warm

It is no secret I don't do well in cold weather. My body pretty much shuts down into veg mode and it's quite hard for me to function. I seriously force myself to exercise in it--blech! I also don't own many warm clothes, except for a few long sleeve shirts (if you want to count that). The past few days I have resorted to my workout clothes to keep me warm. Sad, but true. In fact, my husband called me the other day on a whim (this doesn't occur very often) to meet him for lunch. I had no time to shower so I threw on my cap, put on "my face" and was out the door.

My other uniform is this fleece. It has to be the best purchase I have ever made. It's not really my favorite shade of pink (and doesn't match many things I own), but it is SUPER warm. It has saved me on more than one occasion, including my trip to Utah.

Since we are on the topic of weather...........it never fails when it's cold outside that my husband will call me as he is driving out of our neighborhood. Why? He has a temperature gage in his car and likes to inform me of the "correct" current temperature. I think he secretly wants me to realize how nuts I am for going out in it. He claims I am torturing our children by taking them out in "freezing" temperatures for our morning walk. In my defense I have two blankets, two jackets and hats on their little bodies. Oh, and just so you know I didn't take them out this morning due to 35 degrees and drizzle. There is something about the wet that sends a chill through your body. BRRR!
Cold weather may stop me, but it doesn't keep the city from functioning (unless you are San Antonio--i.e. last year) I do feel for those who have to work out in the cold, such as my trash guys. I will say that the best thing I ever did for them was give them a little Christmas cheer. Ever since December my trash cans have been nicely placed by my garage door by one of the trash guys. As I was bringing in my trash to the back yard I actually spotted some snow flurries. Despite what you all think--Texas DOES get cold! The high today is in the low 40's not including the wind chill factor.

Five For Friday

minutes after he was born
Dr. Lottinger, me and baby Jared

1. I got the most heart wrenching phone call from a dear friend this morning. She informed me that my o.b. that delivered Jared (in New Orleans) has severe breast cancer and will be getting a double mastectomy. She was and is one of my favorite physicians. I feel terrible and so sad for her. Those of you who know Dr. Lottinger, please keep her and her family in your prayers.

falling on my bum ALL day

2. It's hard to believe I spent exactly a week ago doing this most of the day. Sadly, I can still feel the bruises on my body and it is still quite difficult to put on my pants in the morning. Ouch. I guess that is the price you pay for having fun eh?

the lovely song book that plays around our home

3. We bought Weston this book from the BYU bookstore. My boys both love to sing nursery songs so I couldn't resist this cute book. I never imaged it to be as big of a hit as it was. I haven't decided if it is a blessing or a curse to hear it 24/7. This has now replaced this book each night and day. The funniest thing is to hear the boys walking around singing......"follow the prophet, follow the prophet, don't go away....." instead of astray. Thank goodness it does have an off button.

Taylor's broken violin

4. I was so bummed yesterday (or should I say bugged) when I picked up Taylor from orchestra after school. She informed me that her violin fell off of a chair and the bridge of her instrument broke. Her teacher explained it really wasn't a big deal and is very easily replaced for about $15. Unfortunately, the repair shop told me differently and it was going to cost double that price (for a small piece of wood). I realize it was an accident and things like this happen, but seriously. **edit, I just took it in and forgot I had insurance on it--it may be free of charge or a small fee. Woo hoo!**

concentrating really hard cutting ribbon--quite the task. Ha.

5. I finally broke out my scrapbook supplies and tried to get some creativity going today. I blasted the ipod and attempted looking at a few idea books. I have been putting Jared's baptism invitations off for about a month. I still am not sure if I love them, but after about 4 hours this morning I WILL have to like them. Oh, the things we do for our children...........I'll try and post them tomorrow.


blessing Thursday: knowing that Jared made the choice to be baptized and went to his interview.
blessing: having beautiful weather the boys can go out and play in.

Five For Friday

1. Wouldn't you hate to be my trash man?? This has been sitting on my curb since last night. I am sure today was an extra long day for them. They just barely took the trash and it's nearly 8pm.

2. The weather was absolutely gorgeous today. The kids played outside all day. Their favorite is playing kickball with the neighbors. I love that Weston just proceeds to cruise on his new wheels.

3. I was a machine today. I decided to de-clutter all of our closets. (don't ask) I had nearly 10 bags of stuff for Goodwill. Sadly, our space is so tight we still had toys piled to the ceiling. Crazy! It also doesn't help that three boys share one TINY closet. It did feel good to get rid of stuff I should have LONG ago.

4. This is Doug's FAVORITE surgical hat. It sat all alone on Doug's dresser today. The Sun Devils did SOO poorly last night against Texas he couldn't even bring himself to wear it to work. It doesn't help that we live in Texas, I am sure he would have heard it all day long. **edit: I was just informed he was mocked all day. Poor guy.**

Mackenzi, Taylor, Maryn, Maci, Weston, Luke and Jared

5. I tried to convince Greg and Angie to leave their kids yesterday until Sunday so that it would be a "fair" trade come next week. I finally got her to leave them this morning around 11am. For now, we are planning a fun sleep over. My kids have LOVED every minute of it. I will be in forever debt with her kindness. She not only agreed to watch them next week, but at 37 weeks pregnant ta boot!

good deed: donated several toys and clothing.

Five For Friday

1. I am so excited that this coming Monday our Favorite Things party is FINALLY coming to pass. My friend was sweet enough to offer up her home for a girls night of fun. Doug jokes that our bunco night really isn't bunco and we only have it for a display. Well, he is sorta right we do end up playing at least a round then end up talking the rest of the time. I am anxious to see what everyone brings as their item. We were instructed to bring three of our favorite things wrapped up individually. Stay tuned.........

corner of my bedroom--blech!

2. Yesterday I was an elf the entire afternoon and into the evening. The corner of my room has seriously gotten out of control. I had no idea who had what and I had to take some major inventory. I literally wrapped until I dropped. Normally, I leave this until the last minute and am so glad it's done. This way I don't feel saddened by my kids ripping opening gifts just a few hours of me wrapping them.

I know, I look ridiculous!

3. Okay, so I stole the idea of the headlight from Jill, but I must say it works as a charm. I was sick of holding a flashlight in bed while trying to read articles or a book in bed. As we were browsing Brookstone a few weeks ago Doug encouraged me to pick up this beauty. I will say it is extremely bright and I found myself staring at the bright circle until my eyes adjusted.

4. This year for our family we opted to keep it simple. We decided to give each family member Rudy's BBQ sauce. I was surprised as to how well they received this gift and actually really liked it. It also helped that most of them has already tasted the liquid gold. We figured since this was our last year here it would be a Texas treasure. The bonus was I stole all of the display ones dressed up in reindeer. Aren't they cute? It also makes a great Christmas display eh?

5. Monday night was really therapeutic for me. I had the bug to go to the mall and shop for some things for Christmas. It has been super long since Angie and I have gone out together so I picked her up at 6pm and we had a girls night out shopping. Thanks Ang for the companionship, it always makes is SO much more enjoyable. I also should add I dragged her to Red Robyn since I was craving those delicious fries and campfire sauce--yum!

good deed: made the kids french toast for breakfast.

Five For Friday

ASU Institute Building
(very AZish look at the landscaping)

1. Last week when we found out we were going to the ASU game, Doug and I immediately headed out to the campus bookstore. Even though I never actually attended ASU, I was on the dance-line there for two years. How--you may ask? They allowed me to just take the band class required to be on the squad. Kinda weird if you think about it. Anyways, driving through campus flooded back memories of going to institute dances. Of course back in the day, the institute building was really old and pretty run down. I was amazed when I saw that they had a new building. Not many campuses (unless you are in Utah) have their very own building on the premises. It makes me excited to think my kids will have a seminary across the street from their school when we move back. Here and other places they have early morning seminary, which isn't bad just more convenient for the parents :)

2. I almost banned Sonic up until a few weeks ago. I think they would have lost one of there best customers--ha. Until........ours finally jumped the band wagon and are doing the half price drinks. I don't take the kids everyday, but twice a week after picking up Taylor we head out to the drive-in for treats. We all have satisfied tummies for under $4. Not too shabby! The only bummer part is it's from 2-4pm which means, I have to wait nearly all day to get a drink.

Jared is making some sorta freaky face--go figure
(maybe a little excited about the grape slush?)

3. Since football season is over and Taylor finished up basketball camp we have literally had nothing after school (other than Taylor's dance). Doug has also not been able to moonlight until he gets some mandatory certification, which means he is home after work. I know I have complained about how early the sun goes to bed, but I have to admit it is nice to have the kids bathed and fed by 6:30pm. This week we have done several things as a family. It's definitely nice for a change!

Doug playing "chicken feet" dominoes with the kids
Bones enjoys family time as well.
He is trained to sit right by the back door on his mat.

4. It's been three months since I have cut my boys hair. I originally started growing it out for our Halloween costume and then just plain got lazy. I really LOATHE cutting their hair. It's a screaming battle. After Halloween I decided to try and grow it out for the "California" long hair look. In my opinion, my boys hair just wasn't cut for that look. Actually, Luke probably could have gotten away with it since he has natural curl. My other boys were looking like helmet heads so I butchered them yesterday. I secretly think Jared was happy to have his "spiky" hair back rather than having to comb it everyday.

The boys loving the open windows with their new haircuts!

5. I really ho-hummed about this last piece of information, so hopefully I won't step on my friends toes by doing it. I didn't want to spill Angie's exciting news for her about their new house (hence why I am choosing the backside) Granted this photo was taken a few weeks ago, and sadly their house won't be done until after Christmas. I think the Gordon's were hoping to be in (as would I), but it doesn't look like it will be happening until the first of the year. They just barely put their house on the market *sniff, sniff* and are having to be out and about more (for showing purposes) Any of you who ever had to sell a house know exactly what I mean--leaving on a whim so someone can "look". Add that stress keeping it clean, being 8.5 months pregnant (AND NO STILL DOESN'T LOOK IT) you have an MIA Angie. I would have added in a belly photo of her, but I am not sure I could sneak one by. I will say she looks darling as ever and still can walk faster than me on our walks. I have no idea how--she continues to amaze me! I am still working on her to update her blog, I'll keep trying.........

Gordon's brick home--you would never find this beauty in AZ *sigh*
(back view)

good deed: donated a gift for tree

Five For Friday

I couldn't resist taking a photo of all those 5's

1. About a week ago I was due for an oil change AND that fun "car checkup" I put off last time. I always cringe on these occasions because they are a pretty penny. BUT, I always said if and when I got a new car I would take care of it. So here I am doing the deed. It's hard to believe that we have owned our car for three years now. I sensed that my breaks were wearing a little thin so I had asked them to check them out as well. I expressed that I had never gotten new ones and wondered what the approximate mileage you could get on them. Of course he said it depends on the driver, etc. Roughly he said around 20-30,000 is normal. That was when I said well, I guess I do pretty good because my car has 55,000 miles on it! Woo-hoo for my driving :)

Cute Patrick

2. We had a family move into our neighborhood this past summer. They have three boys and a girl like our family. This is Patrick and is seriously a crack up. He speaks like an adult and always wants you to watch him do tricks on his bike. I had to bring up Patrick because I was running with Doug a few weeks ago and he said, "Hi sister Gordon!!" I almost didn't correct him, but felt compelled to. I think he was a bit embarrassed, but it was pretty funny. I am waiting for the day people ask me, when did you have your baby??!

3. I put a rush on my Christmas cards this week and received them in the mail on Tuesday. I was a bit nervous since I have never ordered online cards. I checked several companies and found this one to be the most reasonable. I think they turned out pretty good, and hey their done right? Luke and I spent yesterday afternoon stuffing envelopes. Now all I need to do is address them and in the mail they go.

4. A couple of Sunday's ago I had to run home and grab something during Sunday school block of church. On my way back, I was driving through a residential neighborhood and being tailgated. This urks me to no end when people do that. What if there were kids near the road? I was doing the speed limit and it also happens to be an area that cops hang out. Well, the person behind me apparently thought I was driving much too slow and sped by me super fast. She sped by me to pass! I bring this up because it wasn't a teenager, but an OLD lady with handicap tags on her mirror. What in the world? Maybe she had to go to the bathroom, was late for somewhere or something, but geesh!


5. Is anyone bummed about the writer's guild going on strike? They are going on the second week. I know that doesn't effect reality shows, but Jon Stewart, The Office. Heroes, and other shows like 24 and Lost are halting. Good thing I have DVR'ed so many shows and haven't watched them yet or I may be having t.v. withdrawals!

good deed: replaced the fire alarm in one of the bedrooms