Don't you just love it when you really have a day off....nothing that is pressing, the house is clean, you don't have a to do list to finish, (even thought there is so much to do).
This is wonderful lazy day; We slept in, we read the whole paper, no work to be done, now we are puzzling and doing what ever we want. We ate Thanksgiving (Sunday turkey) leftovers for lunch and we will probably go to mom's for her Thanksgiving leftovers.
Ah, the sweet life....the only thing better would be sitting on warm beach or snowed in in front of a roaring fire!
Just a month till Christmas and I am not going to worry about it until tomorrow......?!?!?!?
MCC
Friday, November 28
Thursday, November 27
YUM
Dinner at the Grand America Hotel was elegant and delicious. There were so many choices. It looked like the food scene out of the "Scrooge"movie Ghost of Christmas Present section. My eyes were bigger than my stomach. I tried to taste it all...except for the desserts, they all looked very hotel/cruse buffet generic...except for the bread pudding which was fabo!!! There was the traditional turkey, prime rib, and rack of New Zealand lamb. There was a table with shrimp, crab legs, mussels and fish. They had an omelet station, and other breakfast foods. Several good vegetable dishes, and and a bread table and one with cheese and crackers. On the dessert Table was several cheese cake choices, tarts, fruit parfaits, a chocolate fountain,creeps made to order, apple pear crisp and cookies and rice crispie treats. They had the cutest kids buffet with chicken nuggets,macaroni and cheese,veggies, and lots of candy and goodies. We saw one little girl with broccoli,2 chicken nuggets and lots of candy on her plate. I think that we all ate our fill and then some. I noticed that Hayden had at least 3 plated with mashed potatoes, and 2 big pieces of cheese cake It was a very nice dinner and I would not be opposed to doing it again another year. The only thing I will miss are the leftovers and the food that I would like to taste again later.
Yum!
MCC
Yum!
MCC
Happy Turkey Day---more blessings
Happy Turkey Day ---Well this is a day of first, the Call family is going to dinner at the Grand America Hotel. I guess we will be well and elegantly feed, and we will be with family, so we have some of the Thanksgiving feel...but it is just not the same as dinner at home.Anyway---Pie Party was successful. We had good family, family and pie....lots of pie.
We are all so blessed, and that is what is most evident as I write my list.....
62. My Savior Jesus Christ 63. friends 64. make-up 65. wheat 66. cows
67. airplanes 68. democracy 69. the Constitution of the U.S. 70. Free speech
71. coats 72. pumpkin pie for breakfast 73. Broadway 74. Football 75. President Monson 76. Pilgrims 77. Pioneers 78. bananas 79. fireworks 80. Macy's
81. History Channel 82. Cd's 83. Movies 84. The Music of Rogers & Hammerstein 85. Missionaries 86. memories 87. Apples 88. scrapbook supplies 89. News paper advertising 90. water colors 91. carpeting 92. gold jewelry 93. sugar 94. encyclopedias 95. Temples 96. my Testimony 97. Joseph Smith 98. blood 99. medicine 100. my life.
Wow...I am so blessed... I know that there are many, many more blessings to be grateful for...i will continue this day and hopefully all others, with a grateful heart and spirit.
Happy Thanksgiving Day!
MCC
We are all so blessed, and that is what is most evident as I write my list.....
62. My Savior Jesus Christ 63. friends 64. make-up 65. wheat 66. cows
67. airplanes 68. democracy 69. the Constitution of the U.S. 70. Free speech
71. coats 72. pumpkin pie for breakfast 73. Broadway 74. Football 75. President Monson 76. Pilgrims 77. Pioneers 78. bananas 79. fireworks 80. Macy's
81. History Channel 82. Cd's 83. Movies 84. The Music of Rogers & Hammerstein 85. Missionaries 86. memories 87. Apples 88. scrapbook supplies 89. News paper advertising 90. water colors 91. carpeting 92. gold jewelry 93. sugar 94. encyclopedias 95. Temples 96. my Testimony 97. Joseph Smith 98. blood 99. medicine 100. my life.
Wow...I am so blessed... I know that there are many, many more blessings to be grateful for...i will continue this day and hopefully all others, with a grateful heart and spirit.
Happy Thanksgiving Day!
MCC
Wednesday, November 26
Pie Party
It is time once again for the Annual Cole Family Pie Party, held Thanksgiving Eve. This year the Call's are the host. We have invited a small group this year...just family. In years past the pie party was held at Mom& Dads, the crowd of people has been enormous. But times have changed...thank heavens. One year there were more people in attendance that I didn't know than those I knew. Those parities came to an end when Mom and Dad were on their mission to Scotland. We are now a much more manageable group,and we move location from year to year, just like we do for Halloween Doughnuts...it keep the hanger ons guessing where we will be. Thus keeping the tradition for our family and invited guest.
The Pie Party began because we were always too full to eat the pie after Thanksgiving Dinner. Grandpa Butters thought that it would be good to have a sampling of the pie the night before so that we could really taste and enjoy them. You can eat one slice or have a sampling of all the pies...this is called a 'oneovitch' or a Russian serving.
For tonight's party I have made the following pies: Pumpkin, Apple, Mixed Berry,& Peach. Mom has made: Banana Cream, Coconut Cream,Cherry, & French Apple,Liz is making her Chocolate Cream Pies, and a Pumpkin Cheese Cake, Angela a Chocolate Chip Pie and I think that Christine is making Carmel Apple Pie. There will be plenty of pie for all.
What a tradition!
MCC
The Pie Party began because we were always too full to eat the pie after Thanksgiving Dinner. Grandpa Butters thought that it would be good to have a sampling of the pie the night before so that we could really taste and enjoy them. You can eat one slice or have a sampling of all the pies...this is called a 'oneovitch' or a Russian serving.
For tonight's party I have made the following pies: Pumpkin, Apple, Mixed Berry,& Peach. Mom has made: Banana Cream, Coconut Cream,Cherry, & French Apple,Liz is making her Chocolate Cream Pies, and a Pumpkin Cheese Cake, Angela a Chocolate Chip Pie and I think that Christine is making Carmel Apple Pie. There will be plenty of pie for all.
What a tradition!
MCC
Count Your Many Blessings
.... 26. Healthy body 27. good eyes 28. ears that hear 29. brain 30. hands 31. feet 32.legs that work 33. flowers 34. Cheerios 35. cream 36. spaghetti
37. the daily news 38. food network 39. salt 40. potatoes 41. water 42. sun
43. the Mo Tab Choir 44. scrapbooks 46. freeze 24 7 47. soap 48. snickers the candy bar 49. Snicker the dog 50. Rainbows 51. Roast Tomato Soup 52.Trees 53. Air 54. Clouds 55. Mountains 56. Snow 57. BBQ 58. Gelato 59. Elliptical Trainer 60. Puzzles 61. Scriptures
More to come...MCC
37. the daily news 38. food network 39. salt 40. potatoes 41. water 42. sun
43. the Mo Tab Choir 44. scrapbooks 46. freeze 24 7 47. soap 48. snickers the candy bar 49. Snicker the dog 50. Rainbows 51. Roast Tomato Soup 52.Trees 53. Air 54. Clouds 55. Mountains 56. Snow 57. BBQ 58. Gelato 59. Elliptical Trainer 60. Puzzles 61. Scriptures
More to come...MCC
Tuesday, November 25
A Thankful Heart
I received an e-mail from Andy Andrews today-- he is the author or the "The Travelers Gift" a great book with wonderful life lessons and Decisions for Success. His e-mail was about a grateful prospective. Here is an excerpt from his e-mail;
--Did you know that if you have cash in your wallet and a jar on your dresser that collects loose change, you are considered "prosperous" by more than 90% of the world's population? If you have food in a refrigerator, clothes in addition to the ones you are wearing, and a roof over your head at night, you are more fortunate than 75% of the people in the world.Did you know that there are more than two billion people who cannot read? If you attend church without fear of arrest or harassment, you have a freedom in your life that three billion in the world do not enjoy.
If you are healthy, you are conspicuous by your vitality. Current statistics show that 1,050,000 people will die this very week.
When I take stock of my blessings, I am embarrassed by the things that bother me. If the electricity is out, I can become unhappy quickly. Rarely do I think about the months of uninterrupted service. Cable television, the gas stove, heat in the winter, air conditioning in the summer, clean sheets ... all these are things that seemingly exist in my life without any grateful acknowledgment on my part. Yet there are billions of people who will never experience any of these luxuries.
One of my friends recently talked to an exchange student from an impoverished country. As they compared and contrasted her experiences in the United States with her home, she remarked, "You Americans get to complain about the nicest things."
Wow! Is that me? Sadly, I must confess to my share of complaints ...
This Thanksgiving Day, my family will team up to meet the challenge of a grateful spirit. We will all work on a list of the things for which we are grateful. If you'd like to join us, create a numbered list for your family that reaches at least one hundred. Place the list in a heavily trafficked area like the kitchen and add to it all day long. Urge your guests to participate. How far can our families go? How quickly can our families create a lasting, grateful spirit?--
Andy is great,he has such a positive outlook on life... I feel just like him,embrssed by my complaining when I am so blessed.
I love the idea of creating a list... I guess I already had the idea yesterday. So here it goes again....my first 25
(I will list what I am thankful for without the editorializing...maybe this will help with the tears!?!?!)
1. Gary 2. Family--Jordan, Laurie, Megan, Nelson & Hayden, also Mom & Dad, Grandma Butters, The Welch's,The Cole's,The Brown's, Liz & Al, Bill & Mary,The Call's...alright if you are family I am thankful for you..you are also supportive,kind,loving and great examples.
3. Membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 4.Nice home 5. Employment 6.Plenty of food 7. Washer & Dryer 8.Public Utilities 9. Working Autos
10. Air conditioning/central heating 11. Sundays 12. Telephones 13. clothing 14. Computers & the Internet 15. Mail 16. Chocolate 17. Diet Coke 18. Christmas 19. Four seasons 20. Grandmas Pool 21.Sunsets 22. TV 23. Movies 24. Photographs 25. The Book of Mormon
I am working on my grateful spirit.
Till tomorrow
MCC
--Did you know that if you have cash in your wallet and a jar on your dresser that collects loose change, you are considered "prosperous" by more than 90% of the world's population? If you have food in a refrigerator, clothes in addition to the ones you are wearing, and a roof over your head at night, you are more fortunate than 75% of the people in the world.Did you know that there are more than two billion people who cannot read? If you attend church without fear of arrest or harassment, you have a freedom in your life that three billion in the world do not enjoy.
If you are healthy, you are conspicuous by your vitality. Current statistics show that 1,050,000 people will die this very week.
When I take stock of my blessings, I am embarrassed by the things that bother me. If the electricity is out, I can become unhappy quickly. Rarely do I think about the months of uninterrupted service. Cable television, the gas stove, heat in the winter, air conditioning in the summer, clean sheets ... all these are things that seemingly exist in my life without any grateful acknowledgment on my part. Yet there are billions of people who will never experience any of these luxuries.
One of my friends recently talked to an exchange student from an impoverished country. As they compared and contrasted her experiences in the United States with her home, she remarked, "You Americans get to complain about the nicest things."
Wow! Is that me? Sadly, I must confess to my share of complaints ...
This Thanksgiving Day, my family will team up to meet the challenge of a grateful spirit. We will all work on a list of the things for which we are grateful. If you'd like to join us, create a numbered list for your family that reaches at least one hundred. Place the list in a heavily trafficked area like the kitchen and add to it all day long. Urge your guests to participate. How far can our families go? How quickly can our families create a lasting, grateful spirit?--
Andy is great,he has such a positive outlook on life... I feel just like him,embrssed by my complaining when I am so blessed.
I love the idea of creating a list... I guess I already had the idea yesterday. So here it goes again....my first 25
(I will list what I am thankful for without the editorializing...maybe this will help with the tears!?!?!)
1. Gary 2. Family--Jordan, Laurie, Megan, Nelson & Hayden, also Mom & Dad, Grandma Butters, The Welch's,The Cole's,The Brown's, Liz & Al, Bill & Mary,The Call's...alright if you are family I am thankful for you..you are also supportive,kind,loving and great examples.
3. Membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 4.Nice home 5. Employment 6.Plenty of food 7. Washer & Dryer 8.Public Utilities 9. Working Autos
10. Air conditioning/central heating 11. Sundays 12. Telephones 13. clothing 14. Computers & the Internet 15. Mail 16. Chocolate 17. Diet Coke 18. Christmas 19. Four seasons 20. Grandmas Pool 21.Sunsets 22. TV 23. Movies 24. Photographs 25. The Book of Mormon
I am working on my grateful spirit.
Till tomorrow
MCC
Monday, November 24
A Week of Thanksgiving - Gary
Why does it take a day to jump start my thankful heart. I am truly thankful for so many wonder people and things all the time, I tell HF that I am thankful every day, but for some reason I don't think to vocalize it to others until this time of year.
So this week I am going to compile a list from my thankful heart...which is probably futile because I know that my list of people and things would be forever long, and I will cry thinking of my blessings because I am so emotional...but here it goes--
I am thankful for my wonderful husband Gary he is my world, he makes me a better person and my life an adventure. I can't imagine life without him so I am so glad that we are stuck together for eternity. Hugs and kisses to my one and only, my true love! Thank you for putting up with me and my hair brained ideas, my mood swings, and loving me in spite of myself.
You are the best ! ---xoxox.
(more later the tears are getting the better of me, mascara is staining my cheeks and these are happy tears).
MCC
So this week I am going to compile a list from my thankful heart...which is probably futile because I know that my list of people and things would be forever long, and I will cry thinking of my blessings because I am so emotional...but here it goes--
I am thankful for my wonderful husband Gary he is my world, he makes me a better person and my life an adventure. I can't imagine life without him so I am so glad that we are stuck together for eternity. Hugs and kisses to my one and only, my true love! Thank you for putting up with me and my hair brained ideas, my mood swings, and loving me in spite of myself.
You are the best ! ---xoxox.
(more later the tears are getting the better of me, mascara is staining my cheeks and these are happy tears).
MCC
Friday, November 21
Rise & Shout!!!
The Battle of the Blue and the Red...BYU vs. U of U.... the brothers battle....the Holy War...whatever you want to call it, it is here, the big BYU-Utah rivalry football game.
We love football at the Call home. I have been watching football with my family forever...as a little girl we would have FHE and then watch Monday night football. My dad has been a true BYU fan since before they were good and gave his loyalty gene to the Y to me. As a family we have attended football games on some level for almost 20 years. One of our favorite things we do on Sunday mornings as a family is make our picks for the NFL games to be played that day. We have had a lot of fun attending games, little league, high School, college, and one of the highlights of a family trip a few years ago was seeing the Minnesota Vikings play the St. Louis Rams. You ain't seen football until you have seen the pros play it live. They elevate the game to an art form.
As a family we have learned a lot from football that is really applicable to all areas of our lives. Just the other day when Nelson was set apart the Bishop mentioned how in football the players are asked to give their all on the field and leave nothing behind. We have used football as a goal setting lesson on more than one occasion. As the boys have played football they have learned how to be part of a team, follow a leader, be loyal, strategies, mathematical odds, physical conditioning, how to be committed, have focus and most of all how to be good sports on and off the field.
To have a winner there has to be a looser...which is an awful word...the team with the lowest score isn't always the loosing team. The loosing team in my eyes is the team, players, coaches, fans, etc... that exhibits poor sportsmanship. Sportsmanship is what makes the game a game and not a battle or war. Good sports don't belittle others, use poor language or harsh word, or cause permanent rifs between family and friends. Good sports play the game or let the game be played with honor, and to the best of the players ability. Good sports allow the competition on and off the field be all good . I would rather be heralded as a good sport whose team lost than a winner who acts like a looser.
Good luck to both teams, The Y and the U, they have both worked really hard this season. The coaches and players all should be noticed as good players of the game -- good sports. It is so exciting to see two teams from Utah in the top of the rankings! BSC games for both teams would be fab!
So to what ever the outcome--The Call's will be watching comfortably from our home Saturday afternoon, all decked out in Blue --and I am sure that Nelson will be representing the Blue the best he can at the MTC (I know he packed BYU shirts, hats etc...). And to all of my family and friends decked out in Red remember I like you, and I like to see Utah win ever time they play--- except when they play BYU---Rise & Shout!
MCC
We love football at the Call home. I have been watching football with my family forever...as a little girl we would have FHE and then watch Monday night football. My dad has been a true BYU fan since before they were good and gave his loyalty gene to the Y to me. As a family we have attended football games on some level for almost 20 years. One of our favorite things we do on Sunday mornings as a family is make our picks for the NFL games to be played that day. We have had a lot of fun attending games, little league, high School, college, and one of the highlights of a family trip a few years ago was seeing the Minnesota Vikings play the St. Louis Rams. You ain't seen football until you have seen the pros play it live. They elevate the game to an art form.
As a family we have learned a lot from football that is really applicable to all areas of our lives. Just the other day when Nelson was set apart the Bishop mentioned how in football the players are asked to give their all on the field and leave nothing behind. We have used football as a goal setting lesson on more than one occasion. As the boys have played football they have learned how to be part of a team, follow a leader, be loyal, strategies, mathematical odds, physical conditioning, how to be committed, have focus and most of all how to be good sports on and off the field.
To have a winner there has to be a looser...which is an awful word...the team with the lowest score isn't always the loosing team. The loosing team in my eyes is the team, players, coaches, fans, etc... that exhibits poor sportsmanship. Sportsmanship is what makes the game a game and not a battle or war. Good sports don't belittle others, use poor language or harsh word, or cause permanent rifs between family and friends. Good sports play the game or let the game be played with honor, and to the best of the players ability. Good sports allow the competition on and off the field be all good . I would rather be heralded as a good sport whose team lost than a winner who acts like a looser.
Good luck to both teams, The Y and the U, they have both worked really hard this season. The coaches and players all should be noticed as good players of the game -- good sports. It is so exciting to see two teams from Utah in the top of the rankings! BSC games for both teams would be fab!
So to what ever the outcome--The Call's will be watching comfortably from our home Saturday afternoon, all decked out in Blue --and I am sure that Nelson will be representing the Blue the best he can at the MTC (I know he packed BYU shirts, hats etc...). And to all of my family and friends decked out in Red remember I like you, and I like to see Utah win ever time they play--- except when they play BYU---Rise & Shout!
MCC
Thursday, November 20
Movie Crazy
We have become Movie Crazy, What will be the best movie out this weekend, Disney's "Bolt"or "Twilight"? How much money will they generate in the opening weekend, will they have longevity at the box office? What movie will be number one,and can they knockout "Quantum of Solace"? Movies dominate our conversations, morning news casts, full sections of the news paper etc...So here is my two cents on the subject. I am often asked what movies I like or think will do well. Here are my picks and thoughts on some of the up coming movies for the holiday season.
"Quantum of Solace" if you haven't seen this one go see it,especially if you consider yourself a Bond fan...from mild to wild. This is a different Bond film. It literally picks up where "Casino Royal" ended. It is based on a short story by Ian Flemming. This is a revenge film so the save the world aspect is just a small element. I love Daniel Craig as Bond. He is so real, with cuts and bruises. If you love Judy Dench as M, you see her a lot in this film. I'd give this Bond an 'A-', but I am definitely a Bond fan.
"Bolt"is Disney's latest digital animated offering. It has been heavily advertised as in 3-D. When i saw it saw it in regular 2-D, in a film not digital format and it was fine...I couldn't tell how 3-D would make this film better. Anyway...it is a sweet film about a TV star Dog--Bolt. If you have seen any of the pre-views or commercials for this movie you understand that the Dog thinks that he is a real action hero dog, and that the dog gets lost in the real world. Bolts adventure to get home is highlighted by his encounters with various groups of pigeons, a cat and a hamster. The side kick animals are great. They each add so much to this very formulaic buddy cross country movie. I knew that the hamster was going to be good from the pre-views, but the pigeons were a delightful surprise. (I have loved pigeons since the "Animaniacs" cartoon series which featured a section called "The Good Fellows" a pigeon world that would do musicals and movies.) Back to "Bolt" --- It is good family movie, the kids should love it. I'd give it a 'B+'.
"Twilight" I wrote my thoughts on "Twilight" last week... see Friday Nov. 14. I only gave this film a 'B' which some of you have thought was harsh, but I still feel that if it weren't for the books fan base that this movie wouldn't have received so much attention.
Opening Wednesday Nov. 26 are "Australia","Four Christmases" & "Transporter 3". I have only seen "Four Christmases" but they all should be big movies.
"Australia" is the movie I am dying to see. I missed the screening because of our MTC commitment, but Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman and Baz Lhurman are a win,win,win combination in my book. I fell in love with Hugh as a actor after seeing him live in "The Boy From Oz" on Broadway. He is the real thing as an actor...he gets to the heart of the character and is willing to lay it all out there. This film should be pleasing to the eye as well since Jackman has been named People Magazines "Sexiest Man Alive". He is a Megan favorite and she can't figure out why it took People so long to figure that Hugh is hot.
Baz Lhurman is a great director. I loved his "Mulan Rouge" and expect this film about his homeland to as good as or better. He has a wonderful eye and usually takes a unique look at his subject. Nicole...what can I say she is not only beautiful but this Oscar winning actress is always on her game. I don't think that I have ever seen her do bad acting job. The film she was in may not have been great but she was great in it. The pre-views have looked really good.
"Four Christmases" this is not the movie from the pre-views but it is as good as the pre-views. I hate movies that show all the good bits in the pre-views. This one has held some of the best comedy bits back and definitely didn't reveal the heart of this film. Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaugh shine in this Christmas comedy and their supporting cast is also great. If you want a light movie with good laugh and feel good ending then this is the movie for your thanksgiving weekend. Because this is the only one of the three I have seen I'll give it a 'B+'.
"Transporter 3" I'm not into these type of films but if you can make three of them then there might be something of worth there. Jason Stathan reprises his role as a revenge-driven chauffeur in the sequel that is bound to be action packed.
All in all my guess about the November Holiday movies is that they will all be in the top 10 knocking out films like "HSM 3" and "Madagascar" from the top spots.
The Christmas season is hard on the film industry so I hope that these movies give us a good escape from these crazy economic times.
MCC
"Quantum of Solace" if you haven't seen this one go see it,especially if you consider yourself a Bond fan...from mild to wild. This is a different Bond film. It literally picks up where "Casino Royal" ended. It is based on a short story by Ian Flemming. This is a revenge film so the save the world aspect is just a small element. I love Daniel Craig as Bond. He is so real, with cuts and bruises. If you love Judy Dench as M, you see her a lot in this film. I'd give this Bond an 'A-', but I am definitely a Bond fan.
"Bolt"is Disney's latest digital animated offering. It has been heavily advertised as in 3-D. When i saw it saw it in regular 2-D, in a film not digital format and it was fine...I couldn't tell how 3-D would make this film better. Anyway...it is a sweet film about a TV star Dog--Bolt. If you have seen any of the pre-views or commercials for this movie you understand that the Dog thinks that he is a real action hero dog, and that the dog gets lost in the real world. Bolts adventure to get home is highlighted by his encounters with various groups of pigeons, a cat and a hamster. The side kick animals are great. They each add so much to this very formulaic buddy cross country movie. I knew that the hamster was going to be good from the pre-views, but the pigeons were a delightful surprise. (I have loved pigeons since the "Animaniacs" cartoon series which featured a section called "The Good Fellows" a pigeon world that would do musicals and movies.) Back to "Bolt" --- It is good family movie, the kids should love it. I'd give it a 'B+'.
"Twilight" I wrote my thoughts on "Twilight" last week... see Friday Nov. 14. I only gave this film a 'B' which some of you have thought was harsh, but I still feel that if it weren't for the books fan base that this movie wouldn't have received so much attention.
Opening Wednesday Nov. 26 are "Australia","Four Christmases" & "Transporter 3". I have only seen "Four Christmases" but they all should be big movies.
"Australia" is the movie I am dying to see. I missed the screening because of our MTC commitment, but Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman and Baz Lhurman are a win,win,win combination in my book. I fell in love with Hugh as a actor after seeing him live in "The Boy From Oz" on Broadway. He is the real thing as an actor...he gets to the heart of the character and is willing to lay it all out there. This film should be pleasing to the eye as well since Jackman has been named People Magazines "Sexiest Man Alive". He is a Megan favorite and she can't figure out why it took People so long to figure that Hugh is hot.
Baz Lhurman is a great director. I loved his "Mulan Rouge" and expect this film about his homeland to as good as or better. He has a wonderful eye and usually takes a unique look at his subject. Nicole...what can I say she is not only beautiful but this Oscar winning actress is always on her game. I don't think that I have ever seen her do bad acting job. The film she was in may not have been great but she was great in it. The pre-views have looked really good.
"Four Christmases" this is not the movie from the pre-views but it is as good as the pre-views. I hate movies that show all the good bits in the pre-views. This one has held some of the best comedy bits back and definitely didn't reveal the heart of this film. Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaugh shine in this Christmas comedy and their supporting cast is also great. If you want a light movie with good laugh and feel good ending then this is the movie for your thanksgiving weekend. Because this is the only one of the three I have seen I'll give it a 'B+'.
"Transporter 3" I'm not into these type of films but if you can make three of them then there might be something of worth there. Jason Stathan reprises his role as a revenge-driven chauffeur in the sequel that is bound to be action packed.
All in all my guess about the November Holiday movies is that they will all be in the top 10 knocking out films like "HSM 3" and "Madagascar" from the top spots.
The Christmas season is hard on the film industry so I hope that these movies give us a good escape from these crazy economic times.
MCC
Wednesday, November 19
Back to Normal??? & The MTC drop off
I guess you could say that the Call family is back to normal. No more big life changes planned for the next little while. Our new normal is...two adult parents, one adult daughter, and one teen-age son living at home, with our married son and daughter living five minutes away and Nelson gone very, very, 18 hours very far away for the next two very long years.
But here is the scoop for today. The MTC drop off.
We dropped Nelson off at the MTC today... At the MTC you rip your heart out and let the Lord take it ...oh you know that it will be in the best of hands, but it is still hard sending a piece of your heart away. Nelson was so ready and excited to get going on his mission. Last evening after he was set apart we asked if he felt different and he replied "No, but I feel like I want to act/be different." What a wonderful attitude and thought. He woke up today at 6:25 AM read his scriptures etc... and got dressed as a missionary. Showed me the time on his count down clock...very depressing 3 hours 45 minutes. He wanted to get going but we had a family breakfast planned then said good-byes etc... At the MTC he was all speed ... go,go,go ... fast to the luggage drop off, wanted to get photos taken care of quickly so he could get his tags,instructions etc... He then practically ran to the chapel for the meeting. He went to sit on the end seat so he could leave quickly, but I stopped that and sat on the end myself. We had a wonderful meeting and by the time they were showing the short video "Called to Serve" he was floating off of his chair...I promise you he was floating. I put my arm around him to bring him back into his seat. We all said a quick good-bye ... just like ripping off a band-aid. We all shed a tear or two ... they were happy of course, but just knowing how much we love him and having him around, we will miss his help, humor, and attitude,so the tears. I of course told him I didn't want to let him go and hugged him tight, he probably has a mascara stain on his collar... we are so much a like and I knew I was embarrassing him so I told him I was sorry that I was crying ( I'm crying even now as I write...bitter sweet tears), and then let him go. He was second out of the door...would have been first but he grabbed a tissue.
We sent him out the door with more stuff than he will need at this time, but I practiced on Jordan (Sorry J), and I think knew better what I thought he would need. Why, because he is just like me and I know what I think I would need.
OKAY, Enough of my crying, and thinking...I have to stop this! My bra is soggy with black streaks, my mascara dripped off my face hours ago, and now I have a crying head...stuffy, stuffy, stuffy.
So life is back to normal...the new normal, the soggy normal. Well, whatever the new normal brings and is we will adjust, and survive, we re the Calls.
MCC
But here is the scoop for today. The MTC drop off.
We dropped Nelson off at the MTC today... At the MTC you rip your heart out and let the Lord take it ...oh you know that it will be in the best of hands, but it is still hard sending a piece of your heart away. Nelson was so ready and excited to get going on his mission. Last evening after he was set apart we asked if he felt different and he replied "No, but I feel like I want to act/be different." What a wonderful attitude and thought. He woke up today at 6:25 AM read his scriptures etc... and got dressed as a missionary. Showed me the time on his count down clock...very depressing 3 hours 45 minutes. He wanted to get going but we had a family breakfast planned then said good-byes etc... At the MTC he was all speed ... go,go,go ... fast to the luggage drop off, wanted to get photos taken care of quickly so he could get his tags,instructions etc... He then practically ran to the chapel for the meeting. He went to sit on the end seat so he could leave quickly, but I stopped that and sat on the end myself. We had a wonderful meeting and by the time they were showing the short video "Called to Serve" he was floating off of his chair...I promise you he was floating. I put my arm around him to bring him back into his seat. We all said a quick good-bye ... just like ripping off a band-aid. We all shed a tear or two ... they were happy of course, but just knowing how much we love him and having him around, we will miss his help, humor, and attitude,so the tears. I of course told him I didn't want to let him go and hugged him tight, he probably has a mascara stain on his collar... we are so much a like and I knew I was embarrassing him so I told him I was sorry that I was crying ( I'm crying even now as I write...bitter sweet tears), and then let him go. He was second out of the door...would have been first but he grabbed a tissue.
We sent him out the door with more stuff than he will need at this time, but I practiced on Jordan (Sorry J), and I think knew better what I thought he would need. Why, because he is just like me and I know what I think I would need.
OKAY, Enough of my crying, and thinking...I have to stop this! My bra is soggy with black streaks, my mascara dripped off my face hours ago, and now I have a crying head...stuffy, stuffy, stuffy.
So life is back to normal...the new normal, the soggy normal. Well, whatever the new normal brings and is we will adjust, and survive, we re the Calls.
MCC
Saturday, November 15
Busy Day
What a busy day. As I sit here this morning doing my 'To Do' list, it looks impossible. But I have learned that the busier you are the more organized and efficient you become. So I am making my list and scheduling not only my day but the day for the family...Saturday is my day, they work for me. This is how they pay for their room and board. My family has learned the same thing I learned as a child...first you work, then you can play. Our reward tonight is dinner out and Bond, James Bond... for some of us for the second or third time at this movie, and it only opened yesterday. This is the last weekend out before Nelson leaves so we are celebrating him and the fam.
Well no more time to sort my brain. I'm off on my dead run.
***Marcie's hot holiday movie list is coming next week. I have been asked to give my opinion on upcoming films and my reviews... sometimes my reviews are skewed because I think "how much money will it make", thus the curse of being in the movie showing business.
MCC
Well no more time to sort my brain. I'm off on my dead run.
***Marcie's hot holiday movie list is coming next week. I have been asked to give my opinion on upcoming films and my reviews... sometimes my reviews are skewed because I think "how much money will it make", thus the curse of being in the movie showing business.
MCC
Friday, November 14
TGIF & Twilight Review
Yeah, it is Friday! What a week, it has sailed by.
Yesterday was my grandmothers 94 birthday. We have had some discussion on whether she was 93 or 94 but looking at the genealogy confirmed 94...that is wonderful! Eulala --Granny B, is in great shape and getting better. She has had some health problems and has had a long recovery... I guess it takes longer to recover the older you get. But she is a "long liver" (what size is your liver?). She complained to me the other day that she was not going to starve to death...and she won't on our watch. She accused us of being food pushes and I told her that I learned my pushing skills from the best, her.
Well, we are even closer to Nelson's leaving. I told Jordan and Laurie this morning about knowing how much I was going to miss Nelson was killing me and Jordan said "That if that was the case he will prepare Nelson for the fact that Hayden will be missed most of all." He really knows what I mean but likes to pull my leg.
Speaking of legs...my left knee/leg is still swollen and very sore. At least it is not as bad as it was the morning of the wedding. Everyone tells me to go to the doctor, and I will when I get Nelson sent off. The pain and swelling don't seem to be going anywhere.
Movie news: We saw the trade screening of "Twilight" the much anticipated pre -thanksgiving movie. It is based on a series of books by Stephanie Myers. They have been all the rage for women, pre-teen to young married in age.
My review: It is a movie made from a book, not spectacular, but it has some outstanding elements. Most movies made from a book leave the audience disappointed because the reader didn't visualize this or that like it is portrayed in the movie. This can be hard for the movie makers and actors. If this story didn't already have a following I don't think that it would be as anticipated or would make as much money as expected. So, to the outstanding parts: The acting by Rob Pattinson who plays Edward is excellent. His Edward is very layered and complex, just what it should be. He plays the tormented vampire with great depth and feeling. You really empathise with him in not wanting Bella or anyone else to suffer like he has. --Nelson commented on how all girls want guys to be like Edward and that it is interesting that Edward doesn't want anyone to be like Edward. -- Pattinson isn't bad to look at either. I know that there was some concern by fans of the books about his casting, but I thought he was perfectly cast in this roll. Kristen Stewart as Bella also does a fine job with her roll. I however felt that the screen writers and director didn't let us see Bella in her awkwardness; physically and socially enough to warrant her actions and comments. Both Pattinson and Stewart seemed to acting from the inside out, which is what you want from actors...internalization and layers. Bravo to theses two young actors. The other good things for me were the locations....Bella's home and that of Edward were just as envisioned and the great northwest was a beautiful and smoldering backdrop for a smoldering and sensual story. I'd give it a 'B'
Have a fab weekend all,
MCC
Yesterday was my grandmothers 94 birthday. We have had some discussion on whether she was 93 or 94 but looking at the genealogy confirmed 94...that is wonderful! Eulala --Granny B, is in great shape and getting better. She has had some health problems and has had a long recovery... I guess it takes longer to recover the older you get. But she is a "long liver" (what size is your liver?). She complained to me the other day that she was not going to starve to death...and she won't on our watch. She accused us of being food pushes and I told her that I learned my pushing skills from the best, her.
Well, we are even closer to Nelson's leaving. I told Jordan and Laurie this morning about knowing how much I was going to miss Nelson was killing me and Jordan said "That if that was the case he will prepare Nelson for the fact that Hayden will be missed most of all." He really knows what I mean but likes to pull my leg.
Speaking of legs...my left knee/leg is still swollen and very sore. At least it is not as bad as it was the morning of the wedding. Everyone tells me to go to the doctor, and I will when I get Nelson sent off. The pain and swelling don't seem to be going anywhere.
Movie news: We saw the trade screening of "Twilight" the much anticipated pre -thanksgiving movie. It is based on a series of books by Stephanie Myers. They have been all the rage for women, pre-teen to young married in age.
My review: It is a movie made from a book, not spectacular, but it has some outstanding elements. Most movies made from a book leave the audience disappointed because the reader didn't visualize this or that like it is portrayed in the movie. This can be hard for the movie makers and actors. If this story didn't already have a following I don't think that it would be as anticipated or would make as much money as expected. So, to the outstanding parts: The acting by Rob Pattinson who plays Edward is excellent. His Edward is very layered and complex, just what it should be. He plays the tormented vampire with great depth and feeling. You really empathise with him in not wanting Bella or anyone else to suffer like he has. --Nelson commented on how all girls want guys to be like Edward and that it is interesting that Edward doesn't want anyone to be like Edward. -- Pattinson isn't bad to look at either. I know that there was some concern by fans of the books about his casting, but I thought he was perfectly cast in this roll. Kristen Stewart as Bella also does a fine job with her roll. I however felt that the screen writers and director didn't let us see Bella in her awkwardness; physically and socially enough to warrant her actions and comments. Both Pattinson and Stewart seemed to acting from the inside out, which is what you want from actors...internalization and layers. Bravo to theses two young actors. The other good things for me were the locations....Bella's home and that of Edward were just as envisioned and the great northwest was a beautiful and smoldering backdrop for a smoldering and sensual story. I'd give it a 'B'
Have a fab weekend all,
MCC
Wednesday, November 12
Nelson Clock
Nelson Clock - 6 days 23 hours.
Nelson just told me that his count down clock is at 6 days 23 hours....in one short week I will send my second son off to serve the Lord on a 2 year mission...what a blessing, but I know how much I will miss him. Everyone tries to tell you that the second one is easier, but I was talking to a mom when she sent her 4 and final son on a mission and she told me that it gets harder. At the time Jordan had been out for one year and I knew how much I missed him, and I couldn't fathom that it could be worse....well it is, not that he is gone already, but the anticipation that his is leaving and knowing how much I am going to miss him is killing me. I have tried to not think about it,but I am a mom and so I do.
Anyway we just returned from a temple session which was wonderful as usual. I am so glad that I went into the Celestial room before Nelson so that I could get my emotions under control. I was a mess but had a wonderful confirmation that all will be well. A pleasant happy front is what he needs to see, and it is what my heart is mostly feeling...then I think and when I think the emotions bubble up...such is life.
A mission is the best thing for him and the best place for him at this time in his life .... 6 days 22 hours and 45 min......
MCC
Nelson just told me that his count down clock is at 6 days 23 hours....in one short week I will send my second son off to serve the Lord on a 2 year mission...what a blessing, but I know how much I will miss him. Everyone tries to tell you that the second one is easier, but I was talking to a mom when she sent her 4 and final son on a mission and she told me that it gets harder. At the time Jordan had been out for one year and I knew how much I missed him, and I couldn't fathom that it could be worse....well it is, not that he is gone already, but the anticipation that his is leaving and knowing how much I am going to miss him is killing me. I have tried to not think about it,but I am a mom and so I do.
Anyway we just returned from a temple session which was wonderful as usual. I am so glad that I went into the Celestial room before Nelson so that I could get my emotions under control. I was a mess but had a wonderful confirmation that all will be well. A pleasant happy front is what he needs to see, and it is what my heart is mostly feeling...then I think and when I think the emotions bubble up...such is life.
A mission is the best thing for him and the best place for him at this time in his life .... 6 days 22 hours and 45 min......
MCC
Tuesday, November 11
Cleaning/Moving Out
With help from Megan and Nelson, Jordan's bedroom was officially moved out of and deep cleaned. We vacuumed and dusted and washed walls and blinds. What a dusty mess...I told Laurie when she was helping him move stuff prior to the wedding that I don't clean adult children's bedrooms...that is why they have doors, so I don't have to look at the mess.
I have made a plan for what is allowed in the room for storage, temporary storage etc...
In this room I would really love to have an exercise room but fear that hiding the exercise equipment behind a closed basement door ... the equipment would become bigger dust collectors than they already are. So no exercise room for now, maybe when I become a more disciplined exerciser. In the long run the room may become Nelsons bedroom when he returns, but for now....The closet in the room is going to become temporary storage for Nelsons belongings while he is gone and also a costume storage closet. We have plenty of costumes to store. Currently the costumes are taking over Megan's second closet...a second closet that every girl needs, and they are in boxes in the storage room taking up valuable food storage space. As for the rest of the room it will be temporary storage for my scrap booking stuff until the office move is made in January. I will then move all of my stuff to the loft office. My hope is that by putting the scrapbook stuff in the bedroom we will be opening up the downstairs game room to more possibilities....a home theatre, I just love to dream of the remodel and re purpose possibilities that are now available to me with the boys moving out.
Nelsons room move will happen tomorrow, all but the bed and stuff he needs for his mission. As I said Gary's office move to that room won't happen until January...we need to get past Christmas, re-paint the room and amass some money to purchase new office furniture and equipment.
I guess the change is good...or at least I am making it better for me by planning for the future.
Change,Change, Change.
Nelson clock - 1 week left....he has a count down clock set in his room to the hour we leave the house for the MTC...he is so excited!
MCC
I have made a plan for what is allowed in the room for storage, temporary storage etc...
In this room I would really love to have an exercise room but fear that hiding the exercise equipment behind a closed basement door ... the equipment would become bigger dust collectors than they already are. So no exercise room for now, maybe when I become a more disciplined exerciser. In the long run the room may become Nelsons bedroom when he returns, but for now....The closet in the room is going to become temporary storage for Nelsons belongings while he is gone and also a costume storage closet. We have plenty of costumes to store. Currently the costumes are taking over Megan's second closet...a second closet that every girl needs, and they are in boxes in the storage room taking up valuable food storage space. As for the rest of the room it will be temporary storage for my scrap booking stuff until the office move is made in January. I will then move all of my stuff to the loft office. My hope is that by putting the scrapbook stuff in the bedroom we will be opening up the downstairs game room to more possibilities....a home theatre, I just love to dream of the remodel and re purpose possibilities that are now available to me with the boys moving out.
Nelsons room move will happen tomorrow, all but the bed and stuff he needs for his mission. As I said Gary's office move to that room won't happen until January...we need to get past Christmas, re-paint the room and amass some money to purchase new office furniture and equipment.
I guess the change is good...or at least I am making it better for me by planning for the future.
Change,Change, Change.
Nelson clock - 1 week left....he has a count down clock set in his room to the hour we leave the house for the MTC...he is so excited!
MCC
Monday, November 10
New Beginnings
Change, Change, Change! No, I'm not singing a song, but hearing the jingle of new beginnings for the family.
On Friday November 7, 2008 our oldest son Jordan was married to the charming and beautiful Laurie. We are so happy for them and cannot wait to see where their new beginnings take them. As a family we are glad that Laurie has joined us, she will shake things up a bit but change is good....she makes Jordan a better person and the family a better family.
The other change that is upon us is Nelson will be leaving for New Zealand to serve a mission for the LDS church. We are so excited for him. A mission not only blesses the missionary and those they serve but the mission will bless us as a family... We found the blessings very welcome when Jordan served in St. Louis, MO.
Change, Change, Change, November 2008 is a new beginning for the family. We haven't been a family of 4 at home since 1989, and at that time 2 of the members were young children and the adults weren't very mature. Now we will have 3 adults -- 2 that have matured a lot, a young adult female, and a teenage boy living under one roof. Family life should be interesting.
With our two biggest guys leaving there will be more space, everyone will have a bathroom! Less laundry, I will be able to do laundry when I want not on the boys schedule, Less wear and tear on the family vehicles, yeah, more silence, fewer helping hands, a smaller grocery bill and left overs. When we were first married we had a lot of left overs because I was adjusting from cooking for 7 to 2. I changed then and can do it again.
Change is the only constant and with change comes new beginnings.
We are excited to begin again.
On Friday November 7, 2008 our oldest son Jordan was married to the charming and beautiful Laurie. We are so happy for them and cannot wait to see where their new beginnings take them. As a family we are glad that Laurie has joined us, she will shake things up a bit but change is good....she makes Jordan a better person and the family a better family.
The other change that is upon us is Nelson will be leaving for New Zealand to serve a mission for the LDS church. We are so excited for him. A mission not only blesses the missionary and those they serve but the mission will bless us as a family... We found the blessings very welcome when Jordan served in St. Louis, MO.
Change, Change, Change, November 2008 is a new beginning for the family. We haven't been a family of 4 at home since 1989, and at that time 2 of the members were young children and the adults weren't very mature. Now we will have 3 adults -- 2 that have matured a lot, a young adult female, and a teenage boy living under one roof. Family life should be interesting.
With our two biggest guys leaving there will be more space, everyone will have a bathroom! Less laundry, I will be able to do laundry when I want not on the boys schedule, Less wear and tear on the family vehicles, yeah, more silence, fewer helping hands, a smaller grocery bill and left overs. When we were first married we had a lot of left overs because I was adjusting from cooking for 7 to 2. I changed then and can do it again.
Change is the only constant and with change comes new beginnings.
We are excited to begin again.
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