Lopsided

Abby has become obsessed with her hair. She loves to pull it, comb it and wash it herself. I only wish she was as obsessed with me doing fun things with it as well. She allowed me to put these lopsided pigtails in for a grand total of five minutes. I only had to smack her hand away from them about 200 times to get these photos. I have so many wonderful ribbons, bands, pins, and flowers, that are just sitting in her drawer gathering dust. She just recently allowed me to put a hat on her head; although she has been known to take it off and throw on the ground when I'm not looking.

Any suggestions on how to "dazzle her up" without losing my mind?

Wasted Time

Does anyone else stay up late finishing the pages in their kids coloring books? I just can't seem to keep her interested in finishing a page before starting another one. Needless to say, my OCD is going into overdrive. Don't even get me started on staying between the lines....

Jabberwacky

This is just a fun video of Abby hanging out while Jeremy was cooking. I mostly wanted to get those crazy curls on video. She is such a jabberwacky. I love watching how her brain works and what crazy stuff pops out of her mouth. She is so amusing.

Daredevil

I love this video of Abby doing daredevil tricks when wearing her "purse." She can't just walk around on the floor. Oh, no. She must get herself all tangled up on the side table and then jump to freedom. I have no idea where she got such an adventurous spirit.

Guest Blogger in Nikko

So Denise has been hounding me, Jeremy, for quite some time to post some blogs and I usually use my mad manipulation skills to weasel out of it -- "But you're such a good blogger! Everyone's always saying what a great writer you are and how funny your stories are. You should be the family blogger." That usually works pretty well (at least it did until I just let me secret out) but on this trip, Denise didn't come with me so I had to break down and start blogging. It turns out that it takes forever, isn't as easy as it looks, and I'm having a hard time getting this dumb program to do what I want (like change the order of the pictures in the blog after they are uploaded). Who knew?

Anyway, last weekend I discovered that there was a couple of open seats left on a tour the base was doing to a place called Nikko. Nikko is a place I've always wanted to visit and while Denise was on board initially, when she found out the bus left Camp Zama at 0430... well lets just say it was mighty convenient to say "That's a really long day for Abby; I should really stay home with her." So, I went by myself. The bus ride there was a little over 5 hrs, we spent 5-6 hrs there, and then another 5 hrs back; in the end I was pretty happy she and Abby didn't come because Abby would have driven us all crazy!

So the bus ride up was pretty nice. Getting anywhere in Japan takes FOREVER and even though Nikko is probably less than 200 miles from where we live, it still takes over 5 hrs. Luckily I was able to busy myself with some new podcasts I discovered in the iTunes store. If you have an iPod (and come on, who doesn't have an iPod... I have 4, 5 if you count the one Denise has claimed as her own) and haven't explored the podcast section of the iTunes store, you are really missing out. 99% of them are free and you can learn some REALLY cool stuff. My current favorite is this:

http://www.intelligencesquared.com/

The website goes to the British version but there is a link for the US version. Both are super interesting and you can find the podcast in iTunes.

Anyway, I digress. The bus ride up was nice and relaxing, mostly because it was me and a bunch of old people. I guess pretty much everyone that has kids was staying home that day because it was Halloween. Yes, I chose to go on a trip instead of take my daughter trick or treating. The guys at work already hassled me to no end when Denise showed up at their houses without me. Back to the story... The most entertaining part of the trip, other than my awesome podcasts, was right when we were leaving, which was well before the sun came up. Now, buses in Japan leave at the EXACT second they say they will. When the big clock at the front of the bus flips over to 0430, the driver starts the bus, closes the door, and we go. Knowing this, some of the ladies on the bus where starting to get a little worried when at 0426 one of their friends had not yet arrived. One lady busted out her cell phone to call the friend and sure enough "You're still asleep! We're leaving in 4 minutes!" 3.5 minutes later a car came roaring into the parking lot and a lady came running up to the bus. She climbed on, a little out of breath, looked down and then shouted out "Oh my gosh... I forgot to put on a bra!" You can imagine all the guys on the bus (all older dudes) turned bright read but all ladies in the group (probably all in their 50's) started cackling with laughter. One said "I forgot my spare or I'd loan you one." Needless to say, that lady spent the entire day with her coat on and done up. Oh and yes, we left at the stroke of 0430.

Alright, I've digressed again. Nikko is a beautiful place; one of Japan's national parks and a World Heritage Site. It is especially beautiful in the fall (and Cherry Blossom season of course). Denise doesn't think Japan has nice fall colors; I think she's crazy. Now, while Nikko is beautiful, its close proximity of Tokyo means that me and 200,000 of my closest friends decided to visit on this beautiful Saturday. The place was packed! I managed to crop/photoshop out some of the people in my photos but I'm definitely not alone here. Anyway, because I can't figure out how to reorder the pictures without re-uploading them, there is no particular order here. You should click on the pictures because the full-size ones are pretty nice if I do say so myself.

Most of these pictures are taken inside the Toshogu Shrine but there's a few from outside as well.

This is the path that leads to the gate of the Shrine. Luckily I was able to crop out the guy that almost kissed my camera lens right when I took this picture.

This is the same picture, just from 180 degrees the other direction.

Here are some of the snacks offered for sale. Cotton candy, peanuts, hot dogs... Nope fish on a stick. Those that know me know that I took this picture with the zoom lens!

So, for those that have a chance to visit Japan some day, put Nikko on your list of places to see; just don't forget to bring your own lunch!

P.S. After seeing how long this is, Denise is probably never going to ask me to blog again :)

Happy Birthday!

Jeremy turned the super sweet 29 on Friday. We had a little party to celebrate. Abby loved playing with the balloons and opening presents. She also loved to yell "Abby's Birthday" over and over. Jeremy was mature enough to share his day with her. What a gentleman.


Jeremy mostly got CDs and Blue Ray DVDs. He also got a subscription to Organic Gardening. I think I'll pass on that snoozefest.

This video is of Abby refusing to pose for pictures. She was OBSESSED with the balloons. We immediately had to take them all down so she could throw them around. Beth popped most of them. What a party pooper.

Naughty Abs

Here are some videos of Abby playing at the park. She is such a nut.

We're really working on "Grandma" and "I love you." She's almost got it.

Butterfly Kisses

I had no idea what Abby should be for Halloween. It was too late to order anything, and there were only four different options for costumes 12-24 months. All the costumes had bare arms and legs, which is dang cold for this time of year.

Thankfully, my friend Kim sent this awesome outfit for Abby when she was just a wee babe. I'd packed it away for a later time and forgot about it. I was thrilled that it fit when I came across it last week. Totally adorable. The best part is, I'm sure Kim doesn't even remember this outfit. She'll be as surprised as Abby was to see it. Kim has saved the day on more occasions than she even knows.

Here were a few shots before the big outing....

Abby thought is was hilarious to give daddy kisses while "flying" in the tree. She is such a daddy's girl.

Even the strongest butterflies get tired from all that flying. Good thing her dad was here to give her a piggyback ride.

Our friend Lou does holidays like no other. He's to the far right scaring the crap out of Japanese trick or treaters.

Abby had to take a time out by these awesome pumpkins.

I was pretty hardcore about her not eating the candy, but she did manage to sneak a chocolate bar and some suckers by me. I couldn't resist her hilarious grin.

Here she is getting some flying lessons with dad.

All Ready

Abby's Utah garb arrived in the mail this week.

The cute pea coat is courtesy of Old Navy and the beautiful knitted hat was made by friend Jena.

The disgusting My Little Pony mittens are from my local Military "Walmart." Delightful. Everyone should have purple mitts with plastic ponies to go with their holiday look. It would just be crazy to have plain mitts in a variety of colors. Who needs options?

Note to self: Utah + credit cards + real malls + extra suitcase = heaven. See you in 19 days.

Snap!

Awesome: my totally cool glasses that I REALLY need to wear when driving in the dark.

Not awesome: Abby wrecking my glasses and having no idea how to say Lens Crafters in Japanese.

Jokes on her -- who do you think will be driving you around in the dark without her glasses? Better hope your car seat is strapped in well.

Halloween Trickery

I try to expose my English students to as many Western things as possible. A Halloween party was just another way for me to do that.

A costume was required to enter my house. About 90% of them came as witches. Alright, I'll let that pass. It's their first time dressing up. No points for originality.

I created a pumpkin carving contest mostly because I really wanted some cool pumpkins for my porch and I was too lazy to carve them myself. Genius, I know.

Abby went as a super cute bee. This was her second place Halloween costume. She spent the whole night eating off my students plates, stealing the door prizes and trick or treating in their purses. That's my girl.
I know it's hard to see where I am in this picture. I'm the one NOT in black. That's right; I'm a super snazzy solider. I just reek of discipline and authority. Don't you all wish your neighbour flew black hawks and wore the same size clothes as you. It's Halloween every day here on base.

Abby's looks thrilled the night is over. Wait until she sees me put all the leftover candy in the garbage. Nothing says Halloween like a little extra junk in my trunk. HOORAH.

Jeremy was shocked how natural I looked in this uniform. Maybe I'll join the reserves and take my turn in the sandbox. If only I could find a recruiter.....

My Last Quarter

Today I reached another milestone -- 175. That means I'm down 45 pounds with 25 more left to go.

I finally gave in and got rid of my fat pants, which I've been holding on to as a crutch. Now I'm sporting these Old Navy wonders that I picked up on the way to Peru. It feels good to be in a regular 14 again. Who would have thunk that would be so exciting?

I'm still running four times a week -- 14 miles total -- and loving it. I only wish I could be running outside where the leaves are changing and the weather is crisp. Japan is still in Typhoon season and that is not the least bit welcoming.

I've started a health group called Mormons on the Move. Basically we meet up once a week and discuss our progress, exchange recipes, offer support and keep each other motivated. Some members send me their weekly weigh-ins and other people just let me know how much they gained or lost so I can send out congrats to the group. It's hard to slack when the other members are counting on you to lead them and set an example. It's been just what I needed to stay on track.

As a group we are going to run a Christmas 5k, which is pretty impressive considering a good majority of the group has never run and we range in age from our 20s to the 50s. Each and every one of them inspire me every single time I see them. Seriously, they just radiate with happiness and success, You can't help but be impressed by them.

25 more pounds.... I can do it!

Owen's Big Day

Jeremy and I had the privilege to attend Owen's baptism on Friday. Mass was held in a small personalized chapel on Camp Zama. Owen was an absolute doll and barely made a peep. It was fun to meet Kristin's mom and brother (the Godparents).

The priest has hilarious. After the baptism, Jeremy and Father Paul had a super-long chitchat about all things Catholic. It was super interesting. Military chaplains have an extra-special spirit. The work they do is amazing. It's always an honor to hear them speak.

This week I attended Protestant bible study on Thursday, Mass on Friday and my regular LDS church on Sunday. Does that make me good for November?

Full Circle

Abby will never need drugs. She's got her own way to get dizzy and let loose. She refuses to spin on the carpet where it's much safer -- she's all about living on the edge. Rebel yell.

Boo Hoo.

It's amazing how fast Abby can go from happy to crying, albeit totally fake crying. Her drama cracks me up. I think it's the 80s mullet that makes it all worth it.

Boo, fakity-fake, hoo!

Run, Beth!

So glad Kristen bought Abby this popper :(

Sunday Notes

Abby loves daddy's ties. This one is no exception. She wore it the whole time daddy napped, which was a long time. Luckily she didn't draw on it with a pen. She's known all over the base for her mad doodling. Instead, she ripped the control key off Jeremy's keyboard. You can't have it all.

Abby started taking the sacrament while I was in Peru. It's always a joy to see her participating in the gospel, especially in something so important. However, she took the meeting down a notch when she belched after the water and bread. Ah, delicious. Next week's lesson: reverence.

Pumpkin Gospel

Here is a good FHE idea. A lady at my scripture study class gave us the idea and I found instructions online. I'm teaching the youth this month, so maybe we'll do it in class as well.

Theme: We become a new creation when Jesus comes into our hearts.

Supplies: Pumpkin, large bowl, newspapers, sharp knife, spoon, candle, matches, Bible

Activity: Cut an opening in the top of the pumpkin and have your kids pull out the seeds and scrape the inside of the pumpkin while you read Matthew 23:25-28 and Revelation 3:20

Ask: How is the stuff we pulled out of the pumpkin like sin in our hearts? (They’re both yucky, sticky…)

How is the way we cleaned out our pumpkin like the way Jesus cleans us out when we confess our sins?(Jesus scoops the yucky stuff out, etc)

Draw a happy face on your pumpkin, then carve it out. When your pumpkin has a happy face read 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Ephesians 2:10

Ask: How have we made this pumpkin a “new creation”? How do we become new creations when Jesus comes into our hearts?

Share: When Jesus comes into our hearts, we become new creations, just as our pumpkin has become a new creation. Read 2 Corinthians 4:7-10

Read aloud: Matthew 5:14-16. Then light a candle and place it inside the pumpkin. Turn off the room lights and have everyone stand or sit so they can see the light coming through the pumpkin’s face.
Discuss how God wants our light to shine before others. Read 2 Cor. 4:6

Ask: How is the way the candle light comes through the pumpkin like the way God wants our light to shine?

This can be a wonderful way to glorify God on this day and olders kids can help read scripture while the younger ones will have fun learning the Gospel in a way that will stick with them forever.

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The VanRobertsons

I'm officially a soccer mom! You can call us the VanRobertsons.

Check out our brand-spanking-new van that is currently being shipped to Berlin as we speak. Dual remote sliding doors, heated seats and an upgraded engine -- we'll be riding in style. This sweet ride is red, but ours is black. I had to draw the line at a GPS system (we can get an after-market one much cheaper) and a video monitor system (Abby will just have to look out the window to entertain herself). The economy's tanking, so we got almost 25% off this beauty.

Try not to be too jealous of our coolness. If come to Berlin I'll drive you around in my cougar-mom-mobile :P

Animal Farm

I love when I catch Abby playing quietly by herself. In this video I caught her doodling and humming. So cute!

Head and Shoulders

Abby started out as a sourpuss today, but was kind enough to show off her mad skills. She learned this number in nursery. I couldn't be prouder, unless she was able to find her knees, mouth and nose.

Trek On

So who wants to hike one of these across-Europe trails with me?

Seriously, anybody in for a portion of one of them?

Bubbles Times Three

This video is pretty long, so only watch it if you're bored. I mostly posted it for the grandmas. They're all about long Abby videos.

Abby chasing bubbles around the yard...

This video is Abby trying to blow bubbles...

I love this video of Abby....