To Be Young Again


It was Stephen’s turn to plan our date for Friday night and it ended up being one of the funnest we’ve been on for a long time. I say ended up because at the beginning I was feeling self conscience and a little skeptical, but by the end I had thrown caution to the wind and just enjoyed it. Here’s how it went down:

Stephen was given a Starving Student card last week for free, the only catch is that it is going to expire at the end of this month. He noticed that there are several great “Free” items. So this leads us to what our date was all about – everything we did had to be free and on the card. Guess what? I noticed that I had the same card tucked away in my purse – so everything listed is x2. It felt like a Scavenger Hunt and I also felt like a little kid in a candy shop trying to cram everything down. We both decided to pace ourselves better after the first couple of stops and brought a bunch of stuff home for our kids – they thought it was great.

Our first stop was to Little Caesars for some FREE crazy bread. We ate a couple of them and then pressed on to The Twisted Pretzel and BRC. We each got a FREE caramel pretzel, very yummy and highly recommended. (I will confess we paid 30 cents more each to have it caramelized – but well worth the splurge) At BRC we got a frozen ice cream custard bar, again yum.

Next we drove to The Backyard. We got a FREE large fry and FREE raspberry cheesecake custard. The fries were drenched in a scary amount of grease but that custard was delicious. (We had to share these items because Stephen had already cashed in on these when he first received the card) Seriously the raspberry cheesecake custard was my favorite pic of the night! I’ll be going back again for that one.

After that we drove over to Gandolfos for our FREE lemon mousse cake. We couldn’t even tempt ourselves because we were getting stuffed. We decided to save that to share with the kids (along with our greasy fries and left over bread items). Oh speaking of bread items we got a FREE roll from the Lion House Pantry at Deseret Book.

We ended up the night with FREE chips and salsa from Bajio. (I’ll also confess that here we splurged to buy some queso dip for a $1. We both love it!)

We also went to Pic a Flic and picked up a couple of FREE movie rentals. Whew it was crazy night and lot of fun.

It felt like we were in college again, and fun for one night! I’m glad Stephen is fun to be with and makes my life happy. I seem to take life too seriously most of the time and he is the perfect antidote for that (most of the time). 🙂

Comments:

Mom and Dad Parker said…

When you can have that much fun on a date with a time tested companion, it’s like winning the lottery, but better, because you can have that much joy and not worry about the money. We would love to double date with you guys anytime.

Monday, August 25, 2008 1:52:37 AM

michelle said…

I love that date! You guys are great! I love the rush of getting free stuff-good job!
Monday, August 25, 2008 12:38:53 PM

Jana said…

Way fun we did that too!! I think free runs deep in our blood and gets us Parkers going!!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008 9:57:34 AM

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!


School Bound CutiesCommonly one hears the phrase, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year” at Christmas time. Can I offer a better use for the phrase? And that would be BACK TO SCHOOL TIME BABY!!! Just for the record, I’m quite certain the feeling (from my children) is mutual. I have been known in previous years to feel melancholy. (yes you read that correctly) I couldn’t believe parents were excited about being away from their children – then five kids happened! Fighting, whining, bugging, tattling, complaining, laziness, crying, etc. Any mother with children knows my plight. I have had a several days this summer of feeling like I am going to literally pull my hair out!! You know the story about being in a hole and you can’t get out? That would be mine. Seriously though, I just need a few hours a day to regroup and tidy and be still!

Today was the day I have been waiting for. Three kids in school ALL DAY long, two more to go… It’s time for me to finally take a giant breath – AHHHHH. Don’t get me wrong, I love these little people more than life itself. They are my flesh and blood – they just sometimes create a lot of sweat and tears. It is good for all of us to have a little bit of space so that we can appreciate each other that much more, right? It helps that they are anxious to learn and enjoy their time at school.

Here are some pictures of our back to school FHE. We always have a great time kicking off the new school year. We had to coax Mason into the fashion show, but he is a good sport – doesn’t he look handsome as ever? They all like the bus cake the most, it is a must have.

It almost feels like Christmas! (smile, wink, wink)


Miss me, miss me, now I’ll have to kiss me!

Back to School FHE

crazy food for crazy people

Which one is going to teach Spanish at MHS?

The man behind the camera.

Playgroup or Bust!

First Grade and in Fashion!

Love my shirt with crossing wrenches!

and the semi truck on the back!

Sassy little sixth grader!

Reminding us that everyone is special!

Modern FHE


What do you get when you have family that lives in Boise, Provo, Austin, Cedar Heights, Salt Lake City, and Sugar City and a few technologically minded gurus? Family Home Evening over the internet! It’s a crazy concept but really quite amazing. There is a little delay mostly noticed when trying to sing the opening and closing songs, but how great it is to hear and see my brothers and sisters in such an instant fashion – what convenience. Last night we were able to take part in another modern FHE with the Baldwin family. My brother Scott came up with a cool way for us all to see/hear each other in five windows on the computer screen. (check out the pic – I stole it off of his blog)

Last night Brad’s family hosted and Dallen gave the lesson on Pioneer heritage. It has been such a wonderful blessing to hear the testimonies of my nieces and nephews. They are some very remarkable young people. I am extremely happy that my young family get to have such stellar examples!

Kudos

Comments:

Stephen said…

only drawback is getting the kids to sit still for that long.

Monday, August 11, 2008 5:10:49 PM

Scott Baldwin said…

That’s the beauty of the remote FHE, you can take your kids out of the room, or mute them when the start screaming and crying.

The trick to the audio delay on the songs is for everyone except the “hosting” location to mute their skype connection.
Monday, August 11, 2008 8:57:53 PM

John said…

Looks like a lot of fun. We should give it a try sometime. It could be amusing and worthwhile. Maybe mom and dad could participate if we had it at the right time.

Monday, August 11, 2008 9:52:42 PM

jana said…

That sounds like fun.. what an amazing way to keep connected!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:54:23 AM

Anne said…

So neat…technology really is cool! What a way to do what you can with what you have and still make family memories.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 2:44:02 PM

Hurdles


Hurdles…that is what we all keep jumpin’ over and over everyday, and this past week has been no exception. I realize things could be sooo much worse and I’ll take my lot, but it doesn’t make it any more fun. Then again, life wasn’t meant to be all fun and games right? How would we have opportunities for real growth? I’ve also heard the saying that bad things come in threes, here are my three from the past week that I hope to learn from.

#1 – The washer
My washer officially met its match. I realized this when I would try and load my washer and step away with wet socks. It had a leak that found it’s way through the floor board and manifested itself in the ceiling of the guest/JTs temporary bedroom. It wasn’t too bad, but still a little of a set back that we have yet to fix. After Stephen checked things out he declared that the washer wasn’t worth trying to fix. So on Thursday during Stephen’s lunch break as he was trying to prepare for his crazy mountain climb we went to Bingham and Sons and picked out a new washer to be delivered on Friday afternoon. That part was kind of exciting, but signing the receipt wasn’t! I have successfully washed 8 loads of laundry since then and I am really grateful for modern day luxuries!

#2 Renter’s Ousted
On Friday while Stephen was on his hike I received a certified letter in the mail informing me that (short version of the story) we are in violation with the law to rent our apartment out and that we have 15 days to do come in compliance with this or pay the penalty. Of course we want NOT to violate the law so we gave our renters the bad news. They understood and took it well. I am thinking I might have to start a preschool now to utilize the space? It even sounds kind of fun to me.

#3 Broken Arm
My little/big girl Alexis broke her arm today while doing a back handspring. Wow, I wasn’t prepared for the emotions that would surface. I love that girl and hated to see her broken and I couldn’t fix it! It made my heart ache – I even had to tell her to cover it because it made me so sad. She was so tough and sweet. The doctor and nurse complimented her on what a great patient she was. She remembered to use her manners and even generated a smile through the pain. I was very proud to be her mom. I’m sure to notice a loss over the next couple of weeks because she such a great help around here. It will probably be so nice for her to have a break and get a turn to be waited on!

Comments:

Mom and Dad Parker said…

It’s good to have your three over. Life sure is a lot like life. None of us will probably say, “boy that was sure easy”. Good luck this week. You are getting good grades in life. Stay tough and rugged and remember that you are surrounded by love.
Monday, August 04, 2008 12:42:31 AM

Mzb said…

Those are some hurdles, but it sounds like you are all on the mend. Good luck with everything, don’t stress yourself out to much with starting a preschool. Enjoy that baby.
Monday, August 04, 2008 8:13:50 AM

Anne said…

Jodi, Hang in there! Sounds like some craziness for you. Maybe this week will offer three good things for ya. Happy day!
Monday, August 04, 2008 11:01:02 AM

American Gladiators


HellgaLast night Stephen and Paul pulled up some recent episodes of American Gladiators for us to unwind with before bed. I don’t understand what propelled us to want to watch episode after episode, but something did. (You’ve gotta love the DVR approach to viewing television!) We were able to crank out 3 or 4 hours worth in half the time!

It cracked me up to watch them goad each other on and talk smack to each other. Do they really believe what they are saying or merely trying to get ratings up? And nothing tops the gladiators outfits. I wonder if they get to choose their own get up? Paul and I’s personal favorite was the guy with strap-on boots, I think his name is Hurricane. Oh, we also got to witness the unleashing of “the Beast” – the newest member of the gladiator team. He came down from the ceiling in a cage ready to rumble.

We watched an episode with twin sisters competing against each other … Stephen and Paul couldn’t decide who they would place bets on if Stacie and Stephanie enlisted – they are both pretty darn tough!

My favorite part of the show is at the end when the contestants go through the eliminator. Basically a glorified obstacle course challenge. We also got to see this guy make record time, completing the eliminator in like 1 minute 24 seconds. That my friends is pretty amazing! O.k. and last, but NOT least…we watched the oldest contestant, a woman who was 54 years old from Japan try her luck at the show. She really did great considering. On the obstacle course she fell off of the tight rope walk and into the balls below – we all thought she had vanished for a minute, until the camera spotted two little eyes peering out of goggles surrounded by balls, “Yo Ko”! It was really funny – I am glad Paul was here for the laugh, and really only he and Stephen will appreciate my comment about the little lady!

P.S. I have to admit that Gladiators, Militia and Hellga really do scare me!

Comments:

Jana said…

I love that show my kids think it’s pretty cool too. Wish I could of seen those funny ones you all watched! I am a bit intimidated by those girls too they are not feminine at all, not the kind of girls you want to run into on a dark night!!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008 6:43:06 PM

Paul aka Wolverine said…

Lets have a Parker Gladiator competition sometime. I think that would be pretty fun. We can avoid the scary outfits though. But it might be fun to see us al in spandex for a change.
Thursday, July 24, 2008 9:47:12 AM

Anne said…

Really not a fan of the gladiator’s outfits either or their beastly behaviors. Sounds like you had some good laughs. I will stick to American Idol though.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008 12:01:17 PM

In the meantime


What a great title for a song right? This is such a wonderful song written by Jenny Jordan Frogley for a mom to listen to when she has had a bad day! I’ve had a few and am glad I heard this song on one of them to help me remember what’s important and to stay positive.

Remember the scripture that says, “By small and simple things shall great things come to pass”? That is basically what this song is about. My favorite part of this song is when it talks about becoming sanctified – it is a process, something acquired after a lifetime of triumphs and trials. (just like the song says) I have now entered into a quest on learning more about sanctification and am very grateful for the Holy Ghost who is the sanctifier. He enables our souls to be cleansed from impurities and imperfections. Any thoughts on sanctification? I’m your student and would love to add your wisdom to my journal. Thanks. Scroll to the bottom of this blog to listen to the song.

Words to the song “In the meantime”:

In her heart she holds the dreams
That she’s carried since the day she turned 13
Of all that she would be when she was grown
Of all that she would do when she was finally on her own
She dreamed, she’d fly, and she’s still waiting for the chance to try

But in the meantime she’s a mother and a daughter and wife
Doing all she can to stay above the daily grind
She wonders when she’ll ever have more meaning in her life
She doesn’t know she’s being molded and refined…in the meantime

Someday she’ll go back to school,
When the carpools and soccer games are through
Cause deep inside she’s still the girl
Who’s always felt the fight to make a difference in the World
She dreams, she’ll soar, when she finally has the time to do more

But in the meantime she’s a sister, and a teacher, and a friend
Hours turn into days that turn to years that never end
But she wonders when she’ll ever really find herself again
She’s becoming one on who God can depend…in the meantime

Heaven feels the joy of every victory in her life
And Heaven hears her heart before she cries
Somewhere in the middle of the triumphs and the trials
She’s becoming sanctified.

But in the meantime she an answer and a blessing and a gift
To every empty aching heart that only she can lift
Still, she wonders if she’ll ever get to see where Heaven is
If she could only see her mansion waiting there,
If she could only feel how much her Father cares
She would know she’s being perfectly prepared…in the meantime.

Comments:

Dad Parker said…

Wow, the words to that song are touching and true. It is such a blessing to see the transformation of all of us little by little as we choose our way through life following or rejecting the whisperings of the Spirit. I have two favorite verses on sanctification, Hel. 3:35 and Alma 12:9-11. I guess we can become “de-sanctified too by our choices.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008 12:28:12 AM

Stacie said…

Jodi that is just what I needed to hear! I love that song!Great words! Thanks for sharing! How is the mastitis?
Monday, July 14, 2008 9:42:52 PM

Jodi said…

Stacie, I’m glad you listened and enjoyed the song. AND you crack me up with the mastitis inquiry! I am definitely a believer in taking advantage of modern day medical miracles. It would have been hard to be a pioneer during times like these. Yes, I’m feeling better.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008 6:53:39 AM

Talkin’ Trash


This is how it was when we lived in Ammon – they road on the truck and then ran to the side of the road, picked up the can and threw it in!I’ve been thinking about garbage – the stuff we accumulate day after day, the stuff that needs disposing of, disgusting stuff we don’t know what else to do with. We see garbage cans everywhere and for that I’m grateful! I am happy that I can just walk out into my garage and put my “stuff” for the garbage man to take every Thursday away from here. Have you ever missed a “garbage day”? Not fun, the garbage begins to smell as it grows out of its container. Imagine how it would be after a month, or a year!

I am also gaining more appreciation for disposing of stuff appropriately, i.e. recycling! I think a little bit goes a long way in that department. I’m not perfect, but I am way more conscience to the fact that the garbage man can only do so much – I need to do my part too. After all I do have an interest in the future of this great earth.

So basically all I’m trying to say is that I’m glad there is a place to put stuff we no longer need and that someone is willing to take it to its new home.

Comments:

Anne said…

The simple things in life, make a difference! Hooray for the garbage men and women out there.
Tuesday, July 01, 2008 7:50:32 AM

Mom and Dad Parker said…

Funny thing, as we started reading your blog, we were thinking more in terms of garbage that people accumulate in their minds and hearts as a result of negative thinking, smelly words or comments, or just not knowing how to get rid of pseudo-spiritual and psychological “junk”. Your opening paragraph was like the opening statement of a great speech on Keeping our minds and hearts clean. We also like the earth too.
Tuesday, July 01, 2008 9:36:18 AM

In the name of love


“(Pride) In the Name of Love,” one of my all time favorite songs by U2. So is Silver and Gold. Both songs are written about human injustice In the Name of Love was written about Martin Luther King and racial segregation and Silver and Gold particularly about apartheid in South Africa. I have had these songs rolling through my head as I’ve been reading the past few days.

I have just finished reading a life changing book, “Left to Tell” by Immaculee Ilibagiza. It is a personal account of the Rwandan Holocaust. (Genocide defined: The systematic and planned extermination of an entire national, racial, political, or ethnic group.)Just like all of the other holocaust books I have read, this one was so inspiring! Immaculee found the power to forgive and find peace after witnessing such horrific tragedies! She used her faith, the power of God and positive thinking. She was confined in to hiding in a bathroom for three months (with several other women) at a pastor’s house and spent all of her hours calling upon God and fighting the negative thoughts put into her head by Satan. She overcame so much and her story is quite amazing. Please take time to add this book to your reading list and take a journey on a remarkable tale, it will help you see how great your life is. I cannot even begin to describe to you how appalling the mentality of the Hutu killers were- it is unimaginable and I found myself having to stop and cover my head when I would read. Thankfully, I have never had to go there before.

I cannot believe that this tragic piece of history went so unnoticed to me, especially at the time of its happening! (1994, the year I was married – not too long ago)

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ll go listen to my songs…

“One man come in the name of love
One man come and go
One come he to justify
One man to overthrow

In the name of love
What more in the name of love
In the name of love
What more in the name of love”

Comments:

Dad Parker said…

There are so many human tragedies that occur as a result of evil men in high places, and it’s so hard for another government to enter into the fight. I guess we just try to keep our communities, states and country on the right path and hope world leaders have the wisdom to know the whens and hows.
Thursday, June 19, 2008 2:51:13 PM

mzb said…

I agree a life changing book. Highly recommended read. Are you ready for Pillars of the Earth next?
Thursday, June 19, 2008 4:40:03 PM

Steph said…

Wow! Thanks for sharing, I love to hear about good books. Our world is a crazy place, we are so blessed here in America.
Thursday, June 19, 2008 10:16:34 PM

Righteous Traditions


This morning me and my little family, along with Brad and Bridgit, were able to witness my parents turn into official missionaries. It was so exciting and very special. They will be serving a part time mission as Welfare Missionaries in the Employment Department right there in Orem, UT where they live. This is the first first of many to come, I’m sure. (My Grandpa and Grandma Baldwin served four missions: Calgary/Alberta Canada twice, Family History in SLC, and Navuou Illinois) My parents also serve in the Mount Timponogos Temple as ordinance workers.

It made it even more memorable for me, and I know my parents, because it is Father’s Day. I have always listened to my dad talk about the day when he and my mom would serve a mission. He has truly looked forward to this day for many years and made the necessary sacrifices required to make this happen! It took a giant leap of faith for them to sell their home they raised their family in for over 30 years in preparation for this day that has finally come. My dad has always taught me to choose the right and has helped guide me through life by reinforcing the righteous traditions that he was also taught by his father. How grateful I am for a loving and righteous father.

I am also grateful for Stephen’s father, Bruce. He has also demostrated wonderful attributes and characteristics and taught me many things. I appreciate his goodness, tender heart and natural ways of service.

I plan to continue on in the righteous traditions laid for me and hope my children will also come to understand and cherish these noble habits of their heritage.

Comments:

Mzb said…

They will do great work as missionaries.
Sunday, June 15, 2008 5:48:22 PM

Mom and Dad Parker said…

It seems like that forever people have been greatly affected by the “traditions of their fathers”. These traditions seem to be our basic foundation upon which we live our lives. Elder and Sister Baldwin are some of our heroes.
Monday, June 16, 2008 12:16:53 AM

Official Member of the Riding Hood


We drove to Logan with an intense wind prevailing. Siliently I was crossing my fingers that it wouldn’t be present in Logan the next day. (I have ridden my bike on a few occasions in the Rexburg winds and it is NOT fun.)

I was very happy and excited to have the help of Tara Thornock (Parker cousin) to help me out with my FIVE children – and wow was I feeling that number this weekend! I really haven’t been on a lot of outings with all of my kids and no husband and let’s just say, “WOW”! Needless to say I didn’t get a good night sleep – I think I saw every hour turn.

Friday night we (Jana, Anne, and I) picked up our packets at the event location. That always gets me pumped up and excited. We ate a little dinner (see Hannah’s Blog) and then Ryon took us on a drive to see what our ride would be like. It was gorgeous! The mountains and lush green trees were perfect.

When I awoke, I mean got out of bed, I was very excited about the bike ride. Ryon drove us there, we used the porta potty, washed up and waited. Finally the start time arrived. There were masses of women bicylcers – very cool. My favorite jersey said, “Ride like a girl!” It was worn by a mother/daughter team on a tandem bike – so cute!!! We pushed forward to begin and went for it. I have to admit we did really well, at least I know it was probably Jana and I’s best ride as far as our pace was concerned. We were having so much fun and it was a beautiful morning. At about mile 25 we noticed the black clouds looming over where the ride began, this was the same time we were patting ourselves on the back for setting a good pace. Five-6 miles later we dicovered just what those black clouds were, because we were riding ride in the middle of them! Yikes – but kind of cool now that it’s over and we said we did it. Needless to say, we finished the ride soaking wet, wind blown, and shivering.

It was a blast and I can’t wait for many more rides. I am very excited about doing a ride/race with Stephen. I can feel an obsession starting to happen and I love the fact that I can do it with my best friend as we walk out our garage door.

Anne, Jana, and I were commenting on how much fun “Little Red Riding Hood Ride” would be for a girls retreat every year – so Stacie, Michelle, Stephanie and Sharon get ready!!!! (there were plenty of girls on mountain bikes with slicks)

When I got back to the hotel, I sat under the hottest water possible for 20 minutes to stop shivering and then we went up to the Aggie Ice Cream shop for lunch. Such a fun little weekend (I missed my paparozzi husband a lot, so hopefully I can get some photos from Ryon, Jana, Lance or Anne!)

Comments:

michelle said…

Wow-you girls are the best! Good job, it sounds like a great weekend! I’m not so sure about 35 miles! ouch!
Sunday, June 08, 2008 6:50:33 PM

Mom and Dad Parker said…

Hard things aren’t as hard with people you love and enjoy being with. We are so proud or you ladies and your “keep on goin'” attitude. Sharon might be a hard sell on a bike ride, but who knows? It would be fun to cheer you all on.

Monday, June 09, 2008 1:35:12 AM

Anne said…

Good job Jodi! Glad I could be there with you! Fun to read your feelings of the day! Good luck with the kids while Stephen is gone.
Monday, June 09, 2008 4:57:34 PM

Stephen said…

Sounds like a blast wish I could have been there to see…we had a very crazy day today. More details later. We are in La Paz for the night and going on a great bike ride down death highway.
Monday, June 09, 2008 6:40:39 PM

Jana said…

I just have to say I am so proud of us…We rocked that ride! Thanks for helping me get there. I am all over doing it again!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008 9:12:44 AM

mZb said…

Can ride with you next year, my sister is hoping for another baby by then
Saturday, June 14, 2008 6:26:11 PM