Mother Jones

Former Life Friday

2011-06-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to be a bit circumspect about my past life as a workaholic, political junkie (heretofore referred to as PJ), I am dedicating Fridays to recalling some cool moments in my career. Most non PJ's (especially Republican ones) won't think they are the cat's meow, but for posterity sake, I've got to put them somewhere!

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Queue last December when I returned from a post campaign cruise with friends only to find that amid my junk mail, a large envelope with the return address of the White House--yes THE White House popped out. Much to my surprise, it was an invitation to one of the 18 Holiday Parties at the White House with the President and the First Lady (I kept the invite in a safe place, but apparently too safe since I can't find it to take a photo of it for the blog). I called Justin to tell him pastedGraphic_1.pdf">the news--I didn't think we were going to be able to go because we had just got back from the aforementioned cruise--but he said we had to go and we would make it work. My fabulous mom wholeheartedly volunteered to take care of the kids and gave me one of her free Southwest tickets, my friend Kelli gave me some jewelry and fixed my dress, Jen encouraged me to buy some knockout shoes and get my hair done, Justin found a deal on priceline for a last minute hotel room, and we left for a 48 hour trip to DC. pastedGraphic_2.pdf">

We had to do some juggling on where and how to get dressed as our hotel was no where near the White House and in the process, Justin forgot his tie. He felt slightly out of place, although he looked quite dapper. He kept joking that he was going to ask the President if he could borrow one of his.

It was such a fantastic night. Justin and I kept

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saying to each other--"We are at the White House Christmas Party!" We were greeted at the gate and escorted to the front entrance of the White House. There were two large dining rooms with huge buffet spreads, decorated trees in every room and the Armed Services orchestra playing Christmas carols. We didn't really know many people there, but we made some friends from Beverly Hills, Texas, and met Supreme Court Justice Alito. We were also given a designated time to get in a photo line to take our photo with the President and FirstLady.

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Having organized a photo line or two with the President myself, I can tell you it goes super fast. Someone takes your purse right before you get to front of the line, you are introduced to the President, and then you have about 30 seconds to say hello before they snap your photo and move you along. I was determined to get my rehearsed elevator speech out to President and Mrs. Obama. I expressed how thankful I was for their last minute trips to Nevada (both came to campaign for my boss in the last days before the 2010 election) President Obama told me "Job well done. Anyone who is on Senator Reid's team is on my team too." As you can see from the photo below, I was a bit excited.

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Above is the photo the "official" photo sent to us after the party. It is now in my library/den so I can reminisce, especially on those days I am cleaning up drool, patiently trying to calm a pre pre-teen tantrum, and changing dirty diapers, about that time I got gussied up to go to the White House.

Liam's Abode

2011-06-02T22:01:00.000-07:00

This is the room where Liam sleeps. I think it is officially my favorite room in the house. Special shout out thanks to generous friends who chipped in for Liam's Dwell bedding and my husband, who moonlights as an artist when he is not in court, for the very chic tree mural to match.

Gabby Turns 6

2011-05-22T22:31:00.000-07:00

So I haven't really blogged since Gabby's fifth birthday party. That was a bit of a blow-out party. Tons of kids, tons of food, and tons of work. This past year, I was in the middle of campaign hell with literally less than 60 days until the end of the race and I couldn't really take all that on in my life. So we had a little neighborhood party with just a few of Gabby's good friends and my family. Gabby wanted a rainbow colored theme and I commissioned my brother to do a rainbow cake. We had a homemade photo booth where the kids put on a rainbow clown wig and nose and then they played some games and left within an hour and a half. Perfect--short, sweet, and Gabby felt alittle love amidst the chaos of our lives. Some pics below.

A Family is Forever

2011-05-22T21:51:00.000-07:00

One of the most precious things happened in our life during my blogging hiatus. We were able to adopt a darling little boy. After much debate about what his name should be, we landed on Liam. We have had our little Liam since day one. I was able to be in the delivery room with our amazing and courageous birth mom and after some speed bumps we were able to officially adopt Liam about one month ago. He is our family's little cup of cheer.

Two weeks ago we went through the Las Vegas LDS temple to be sealed with Liam for time and all eternity. Gabby was able to be a part of the ceremony as well. I think it's safe to say that she had her first real connection to her spirit while we were at the temple. She started to cry shortly after the ceremony and she said that she was crying happy tears because the Holy Ghost was giving her a hug and she felt loved. I told her that is just what I felt too. The room was filled with many of our family members and loving and dear friends. I think we all felt a little glimpse of heaven that day.

I may not have come to motherhood in a traditional way or the way that I planned, but I know my children are meant to be mine and going through a ceremony in which you are given the promise of eternal life with them reminds me of the perspective I need to have as a mother.

Photo courtesy of the very talented and life long friend, Jennie Slade.

Back in the Saddle

2011-05-22T21:40:00.000-07:00

I won't even attempt to catch everyone up on all the comings and goings of Mother Jones and co. for the past year and a half. Writing took a back seat to the craziness of everyday life. I have often lied to myself saying that I don't have the time (even though I spend time looking at other blogs). I sometimes think that it's better to be living life than reporting on it, but I think in truth and is far too often quoted in blogs round the blogosphere, "You write to taste life twice..." So I am back in the saddle again for now.

Party Favor central

2009-10-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Photo Essay of a Party Favor

Photo below courtesy of Angie Gubler at Blonde Designs. Original ice cream photo of Gabby courtesy of Haley Ann Warner photography.

Melting Ice Cream

2009-10-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

Some scenes from Gabby's Ice Cream Party

1. Gabby and Friends 2. Gabby wearing the top of the Ice Cream Pinata

3. Enjoying Ice Cream Treats 4. "Pin the Cherry" on Gabby's Ice Cream

For more pics check out my dear friend, Angie. She designed the invites, and party favor tags and was kind enough to think our soiree warranted a post on her all things fabulous blog.

Notes to self:

1)Next time check to see if party location (aka Spring Mountain Ranch) is hosting an annual festival on the day of the party that would prevent you from hosting your own annual festival! In my defense, Spring Mountain Ranch is one of Las Vegas's secret jewels--no one is ever there when I'm up there, so I thought I was safe!

2) File under "Whose Party is this Anyway." I spent a lot of time, 2 weekends, prepping Gabby's adorable party favors (see angie's blog and my next post ) which melted in the unseasonably hot sun of late September. Next time, Simplify!

3) 20 kids is a lot of kids! Gabby is quite the social gal. She simply couldn't cut the guest list down and in fact added to it on a daily basis. After church one day when a girl in her Primary class was quite rude to her, Miss Gabby informed me that she needed to give XX an invitation to her birthday party. "That will make her so happy and she wouldn't act the way she did today if she were happy."

As I finished writing this post, I was reminded that today marks the actual day that we brought Gabby home 5 years ago. She was a mere 12 days old and the most beautiful baby I'd ever seen. I still see in my mind's eye that little baby every night I tuck her in to bed and I'm so proud of the sweet girl she's become.

Gabby's hit the big 5!

2009-09-23T22:15:00.000-07:00

Today marked the birthday of my dear Gabriella. She turned the big 5 today and feels very grown up. As she said, now she can say she's five like everyone else in her kindergarten class.

She woke up uncustomarily early for her (7:30am) and told me she wanted pizza for her birthday breakfast. I told her I couldn't really whip that up before school so she decided a blueberry banana smoothie and some cinnamon toast sounded like a good Plan B.

Her celebration today included delivering custom cupcakes (shown in picture above) made by Mimi (my mom) and her Ellie Lou (Ellie Lou is what my mother calls Gabby), a post-school dip in the pool, and a night out on the town at CheeBurger where the balloon lady whipped up a Princess Ariel and the whole restaurant clapped for Gabby's big day. Gabby said it was "the best day ever!"

Saturday is the official birthday bash. Angie, my dear friend, who is a better Martha than Martha, designed the invites, thank you cards, and favor tags. Photos to come of the party next week.

Back to School

2009-08-24T11:58:00.000-07:00

So today marks a lot of things in our household. While the weather hasn't changed much, my summer is officially over, it's Gabby's first day of big girl school, aka Kindergarten, and our 13th wedding anniversary. I know you readers are thinking we look far to young to be married 13 years.

Today began with me rising earlier than my daughter--shocking--to make her requested breakfast. She wanted a smoothie and pancakes for breakfast. The whole family then escorted miss gabby to school and did the photo thing. She picked her ensemble out, complete with knee highs. My fancy nancy loves those accessories.

I held up bravely until I got home and then I cried like a baby. I have been sitting on the couch working and secretly trying to plan out how I could make it back to the school playground in sunglasses and a wig to see how she's doing, but I think I'll refrain--we don't want the cops to pick me up on the first day of school.

I am looking forward to after school where I can chat with Gabby about her day over cookies and milk.

I am also planning on a retro dinner for Justin tonight. Retro, as in 13 years ago--which means I will light the stove on fire, burn the dessert, and we'll head for take-out.

One Quick Thing

2009-07-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

So I am technically on Summer Hiatus from blogging--I know I didn't really clue you readers in on my hiatus, but you are smart readers and have figured it out for yourself by now.

I had to quickly put this one down for posterity though:

Today, July 30 at approximately 8:00am this morning Gabby walks into my bedroom after waking up for the day. (Yes my daughter takes after my love of early mornings and doesn't rise until she absolutely has to!)

Mommy: Good morning miss Gabby!

Gabby: Mommy I just have to say that you are the best mommy ever and I am the best Gabby ever and Daddy is the best daddy ever because he cleans up after us!

Love that Gabby girl.

Happy Summer--only a few weeks left and then I'll be back at blogging school.

Oh the Places You'll Go!

2009-06-13T16:39:00.001-07:00

Gabby reached her first educational milestone--she graduated from Pre-School. My 4 year old is a true smarty pants. I'll brag for grandma and grandpa's sake--she's mastered 52 sight words and read 46 books on her own. As a mom, moments generally fall into two categories: 1) moments you want to freeze time because it was picture perfect or 2)those you want to fast forward because in the words of Miss Kara, you've gone to "crazy town." I can honestly say that seeing my girl ready to take on the world of big time kindergarten, I was so thrilled for her possibilities, I just wanted to fast forward just for a moment to see a glimpse of what she will become.

Congratulations my sweet Gabby--in the words of Dr. Seuss "OH the places you'll go!"

Gabby's New Do

2009-06-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

Off the Reservation

2009-05-11T14:41:00.000-07:00

I am sorry I have been MIA lately. I haven't been in the blogging mood. Not that I haven't had some fun things to say, but just no umph to say them to the 5 faithful readers of my blog :). But I have decided that I break healthy habits way too easily (in this case using my blog as a journal) while I continue to embrace empty habits all to often (watching too much reality TV). So here is a photo essay of what we've been doing the last month.

If you didn't write in the captions yourself--lots of SOCCER for miss Gabby, a quick trip to Disneyland with the Jones Grandparents, and Justin finished his first triatholon. I finished two month's worth of book club books and highly recommend both of them--one for some in-depth looks at good and evil and the other is a quick read, but amazingly written, heartbreaking and thought provoking.

Our New Addition

2009-04-03T14:11:00.001-07:00

Her name is Kit and she was born in 1923, but didn't arrive until Santa brought her to our home in late December of last year, Christmas Eve to be exact. From day one, Kit has been attached to Gabby's hip, but just recently it has taken on a whole new level because I decided to surprise them both with matching nightgowns.

Now, neither Kit or Gabby will take the nightgown off until I get them another matching outfit! I am no seamstress, nor am I made of American Girl dollars, so if you see Gabby and Kit shuffling around in their nightgowns please don't judge :).

Happy Friday!

Update on last week's post: For those wondering, I created a full week meal plan on Sunday night and we stuck to it. We had a nice family dinner together every night but Thursday (because of my book club posse).

I'm Bringing (Sexy) Dinner Back

2009-03-27T15:01:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lame attempt at using a JT song for my post, but I just watched him on Oprah today and he is just so yummy!

Last night was our Church's Relief Society Birthday Party dinner. A shout out to miss Angie and her team--it was a fabulous event! We had a guest speaker, the talented miss Erin Buck, who talked about making family dinners a priority.

Among other great nuggets, Erin cited studies from Columbia University that found children who have family dinner consistently (5 nights a week) are less likely to engage in drug use and promiscuous activity--fascinating stuff!

The stars must all be aligned on this family dinner thing because I was also reading Design Mom today and she had a guest blogger discussing family meal time. She referenced a fabulous article from Cookie mag. There are lots of reasons that we get in ruts--many of us have kids who are picky eaters, we work full time and can't imagine fitting in one more thing, husband's work late, or we just generally have a lot on our plates (no pun intended). But I've been re-awakened to how important this time is for our little family.

I found a fun weekly meal worksheet, complete with space to make your grocery list. Go to http://www.theprojectgirl.com/2009/01/19/menu-planning-form-free-download/.

I am energized and inspired. Share some of the recipes and ideas that work for you!

“Creating this ritual where you turn off the TV, ignore the phone and just spend quality time together is crucial to helping your children feel emotionally, spiritually and mentally balanced. We all can generate a list of reasons why we cannot possibly fit dinner with the family into our schedule. The time has come to say enough with the excuses and just do it. Trust me, it means more to your kids’ futures than you think. If I can find the time to have meals with my family, so can you. ”
Jamie Lee Curtis

And of course, for Grandma Lue and cousin M, a Gabby picture for your weekend--we played with make-up and curling irons this week!

First Signs of Spring

2009-03-16T16:47:00.000-07:00

Gabby was taking a nap today, yes my 4 year old still naps on occasion--it is lovely! I cleaned the bathrooms on Saturday, did a load of laundry yesterday, so without guilt, I decided to take the opportunity to soak up some sun in the backyard and read my book club selection.

I was not really paying much attention to how much time had passed, but I heard the porch door open and looked back to see Gabby dressed in her bathing suit with a copy of Alice in Wonderland. Truly the first signs of Spring are upon us--Las Vegas style that is.

(I love how gabby created her own little Zen space, complete with a little bud vase of flowers)

Out of the Mouths of Babes

2009-02-25T22:28:00.001-08:00

Some days, you get gems that are too funny and you just have to write them down.

7:14 a.m."Dad, how does Santa know what we want for Christmas? He must talk to Jesus and Heavenly Father and they tell him what I want from my prayers."

7:27 p.m."Poop is strong. People are strong. Peepee is not strong."

Takin Time to Love

2009-02-13T21:56:00.000-08:00

So I stole this idea from my gal pal over at Focus Jennie!

This Valentine's Day week I am loving:

Giving the ducks a little love at Sunset Park.

A rockin' Yoga workout complete with some Chocolate Dipped Strawberries.

Letting Gabby create her own Valentines and being just fine with her getting glue and glitter all over the kitchen and the office and the bathroom, etc.

Seeing my Gabster so excited about getting love notes from her friends at preschool.

Having AHA! moments at Parenting Class this week. Thanks Kara!

Taking in a celestial experience with family. Congratulations Emilee, Danny and baby Summer!

Throwing a surprise dinner party for an old *not in age* friend.

Celebrating the birthday of another old (not in age) friend.

Running on a crisp February morning with this dear friend.

Decorating the dining room table for our pre-V-Day dinner.

Making a mess with Gabby as we cooked Daddy a home cooked pre-V-Day dinner

The Menu

--Parmesan Crusted Tilapia

--Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

--Tomato Avocado Salad

--Fresh Bread

--Panna Cotta with Blueberry Compote

Runnin' Rebels game tomorrow night with my honey!

Have a lovely LoVE day!

The Party!

2009-01-24T10:12:00.000-08:00

After the solemn afternoon, it was time to celebrate! The pictures pretty much say it all.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Part of History

2009-01-23T15:44:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox postcard

As you can see, we had a truly incredible time in Washington, D.C. Gabby stayed with our parents (THANK YOU!!) and we partied like Barack Stars! We started off at the Washington Monument Jan 18th for the Concert of ONE--Bruce Springsteen, Garth Brooks, Bon Jovi, Patti LaBelle, and U2. It was giant love fest. We were packed in like sardines, but nobody seemed to mind.

January 19th--We celebrated Martin Luther King Day with my boss, Senator Harry Reid at his lunch for Nevadans.

January 20th, Inauguration Day! We woke up EARLY and put on the thermal underwear to truck down to the Capitol for the big moment. I have never seen so many people in one area in my life--but everyone was so happy to be there and the unity was palpable. It felt like the whole world was celebrating.

One of my favorite passages from Obama's Address:

"On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.

We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness."

I feel so blessed to be part of the historic moment and so inspired to continue to participate in our government. There are times where I am cynical--I have been in the "business" of politics for a long time, but this feels different. Even if you don't agree with all of Obama's policies, his campaign has shown that we can make a difference when we work together. As they say--Obama's slogan is "Yes WE Can."

Off Like A Herd of Turtles!

2009-01-16T23:16:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I am off to our NATION'S CAPITAL where 2 million people will be crowding the city I once lived in to see history and I am thrilled to be a part of it. But I can guarantee it will be one large herd of VERY COLD turtles. I plan to post some pics while I am out there to my FACEBOOK account--hopefully you all are my friends :).

BTW--on a totally unrelated topic and if you didn't already know--NIE IS BACK!

Jones Winter Olympics 2008

2009-01-07T11:53:00.001-08:00

The day after my family Christmas we piled into the car bright and early to get over to Utah to celebrate Christmas #2 with Justin's side of the family. Our timely start turned into quite the adventure as we--and when I say we I really mean JUSTIN--ran out of gas about a mile from Cedar City. A nice couple picked Justin up while Gabby and I waited in a freezing car. He returned with some gas and some profuse apologies, but the car decided not to start. So we sat in the same freezing car for another 45 minutes waiting for AAA to come give us a jump. Twelve--yes 12 hours later we arrived at our destination.

Once in Salt Lake though, we wasted no time. Justin's family rolled out the red carpet for us. We first hit the Nutcracker, complete with a Sugar Plum Fairy backstage party after the ballet ended. The event sealed the deal for Gabby and she now wants to be a prima ballerina when she grows up.

Day 2 of our Jones Winter Olympics included a morning of sledding and an afternoon of ice skating with a dose of hot chocolate and a nice nap!

Did we stop there you ask? NO--we decided to go skiing/snowboarding (Me on skis and Justin on a board). Gabby hit ski school and had a ball with "Fancy Nancy," her instructor. I don't think Justin could have been more proud of his little snow bunnies.

I have to say, looking back at December, we really packed everything possible into one month. I'm not sure if I would do it that way again, but we did have a wonderful time. Come on--snorkeling AND skiing in the space of a couple weeks--Joie de vivre!

2008-12-16T14:48:00.000-08:00

From this....

As you can see, we had a fabulous time in Cancun--visiting Mayan ruins, swimming in the ocean, snorkeling in natural lagoons, eating plenty of fresh fish, searching for the perfect cup of horchata, and attempting to teach Gabby some Spanish so she could speak with the locals--it was a perfect escape.

To This...

That is my backyard in a blanket of snow!

Photo of Red Rock Canyon near my home today (Courtesy of Las Vegas Sun)

Nothing short of a total 180* shift in climate and change of scenery, but it is good to be Home for the Holidays!

Off to Paradise

2008-12-07T21:17:00.000-08:00

I will be off the blog-o-sphere for a week soaking up the sun with the family in Cancun. I am sure we'll have lots to catch up on when I get back.

Happy Holidays!

Self Talk

2008-11-24T17:33:00.000-08:00

Today Gabby and I went for a bike ride (part of my post-election 'get off my arse' program!). When the slope of the road turned slightly uphill, Gabby started to struggle. My confident daughter started saying out loud to herself, "Gabby you can do it, Gabby you can do it!" Over and over she repeated the phrase and she made it up the road.

At first I chuckled and thought I have to write that one down because it was just too entertaining listening to her coach herself up the hill, but the more I pondered the experience the more profound her positive self talk became. This might be too "deep thoughts" for a Monday, but I wonder when do we start telling ourselves we can't do something. When do we give up on dreams because we tell ourselves we can't achieve them. Working in the LDS church's Young Women's program and seeing first hand some of the negative images and negative self talk they engage in, I have come to believe that the best gift I can give them as a leader is the example of confidence--the type of confidence that comes from making good choices.

I think I tend to live a lot my life wandering around in my brain and I needed a good Monday morning reminder to tell myself I can do it--whatever the "it" might be.

**In the interest of full disclosure, Gabby had a complete and utter meltdown on that same bike ride about 15 minutes later...leaving the "Gabby you can do it" attitude nowhere to be found. Such is life!

And the Winner Is...

2008-11-17T16:05:00.000-08:00

Yes, I went with my gut and the majority of voters and chose the green velvet jacket despite the heavy lobbying from my darling fashion forward daughter. For those wondering, Oprah was very cool and totally undiva-like and NO we were not on "My Favorite Things." Our topic was for mature audiences only--SEX 101. It airs Jan 9th and we ended up being pretty much front and center--3rd row, so we may get our shot at 5 seconds of fame.

The Ya Ya trip to Chicago was wonderful--a total recharge for my spirit. Let me tell you, my gal pals and I packed it in to 3 1/2 days. I had never visited Chicago and I LOVED it and not just because it is Obama mecca. We hit Blues Chicago to listen to some great live music, enjoyed true Chicago deep dish pizza, acted like ladies who lunch as we listened to a lovely harp performance during tea time at the Drake, bought plenty of Garrett's famous MIX popcorn, shopped and shopped and shopped, devoured every last morsel at the Frontera Grill, and talked and talked and talked until we silly. We even got last minute tickets to WICKED. Many thanks to our team of wonderful husbands who let us be spoiled brats for 3 days.

Everyone could tell we were "Oprah girls" from a mile away--from our bellhop to the Starbucks cashier. It became kind of the running joke. Thanks girls, it was the time of my life--until next year.

Holy Oprah!

2008-11-11T14:09:00.000-08:00

So the day has arrived. The ya ya's leave for Oprah Land, a.k.a. Chicago, tomorrow. Our taping is Thursday and of course I am fretting about what to wear. The audience always looks like they just stepped out of O Magazine and I don't know if I'm up to the task.

(Photo courtesy of Flicker and Saturday Night Live

**Notice the late great Chris Farley in this circa 1987 Oprah audience.)

I am going to need your help in selecting an outfit that is worthy of HARPO production. We don't know what the topic will be, but the outfit I choose needs to be versatile. I will need look good whether I am jumping up and down in utter joy because we will be getting free stuff or I will need to look somber and empathetic if we have a guest who has experienced tragedy.

Below is a short home video on the possibilities that I filmed with my FLIP. Please vote with your comments by 7am PST Wednesday 11/12.

Of course if I choose your outfit and happen to get on "Oprah's Favorite Things" episode, I will share some of the booty with you.

Victory Is Sweet

2008-11-05T20:36:00.000-08:00

I was going to attempt to write something eloquent about the election results, but Gabby captures my feelings perfectly.

By the way, I am giving a shout out to my good friend Marc for giving me the Flip. It is the most user friendly (a.k.a. idiot proof for folks like me) gadgets around.

All Hallows' Eve

2008-10-31T21:36:00.000-07:00

Gabby debuted her superpowers as Super Girl for Halloween 2008 and my talented husband showed he's got skillz with his rockin' Barack-O-Lantern. Props to my brother-in-law for upping the ante with his entry into the "Yes We Carve" contest!

MIA

2008-10-25T21:55:00.001-07:00

For those of you wondering when I will be updating my blog...never fear. 10 days to go until my "So Called Normal Life" returns. In the meantime:

Walden Pond

2008-10-07T22:56:00.000-07:00

(Walden Pond Photo courtesy of Brian Riccio)

When Justin and I graduated from the BYU, we decided to make a move to the East Coast. Being a bit of a homebody, it was the furthest I had ever lived from my family and friends, but we knew it would be an adventure. We lived in the Washington, D.C. area for about 5 years. Justin was attending law school and I was working for Senator Reid on Capitol Hill. We didn't have much money but we somehow we managed to take full advantage of the living history around us.

We had a wonderfully spontaneous group of friends who were all in similar situations--no family living close by, no money, no kids, etc. Many weekends, we would pick a spot on the map and just go. We took countless road trips to West Virginia, New York City, Amish Country, and the North Carolina beaches.

I was reminded this weekend of one of those trips as L. Tom Perry, an apostle in the LDS Church, gave a thoughtful sermon this weekend about living simply. He talked about a place that I have a wistful fondness for--Walden Pond. It was about 7 years ago that we were on our way to Cape Cod for Thanksgiving and we stopped in Concord, Massachusetts. We stood on the bridge where the "shot heard 'round the world" was fired, took in some other revolutionary war sites and then went to a place where time stood still. When you see Walden Pond, you understand immediately why Thoreau retreated to such a place. As Elder Perry explained, Thoreau came to the conclusion that you really only need 4 things to survive--food, shelter, clothing, and fuel.

We all can do better at stripping away the things we don't need, of focusing more on the things that matter. My goal is to re-evaluate my 'to do' list and make a 'to be' list that focuses more on the stuff that makes life matter. We certainly were not without its stresses and bad days in DC, but we lived simply. We lived life in the moment. We forged friendships that will last always.

The next 29 days will probably be far from simple for me but I am re-focused as Thoreau states, to "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you've imagined. As you simplify your life, the laws of the universe will be simpler."

My First Tag

2008-10-06T19:24:00.000-07:00

So my former YW advisor (I am sure that announcement makes both of us feel old!) and great family friend, Jan, tagged me. It happens to be my first tag and I will not disappoint. Here goes:

8 TV Shows I Like to watch:
Anything on Bravo TV--Top Chef, Top Design, Project Runway, Rachel Zoe Project, etc.
Desperate Housewives
Amazing Race (Bryce and I want to apply)
Rachel Maddow on MSNBC
The Office
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart

The Colbert Report

Those addictive HGTV makeover shows!

8 Restaurants I like to eat at:
Sushi Fever
Archi's Thai
Origin India
Cafe Rio
Sensi
Nora's
Verandah Cafe
The Egg and I (I am a sucker for Breakfast anytime)

8 Things I Did Today:
Unpack from a lovely weekend trip to Newport Beach
Wish my wonderful, smart, talented Mom Happy Birthday!
Work,work, work--only 30 days until the 08 election is over with!
Attend a fundraiser for Dina Titus
Read Fancy Nancy's Fancy Words to Gabby
Blog read, blog talk, blog stalk
Put out some Halloween decorations, including a fun new tablecloth
Write some thank you notes

8 Things I am looking forward to:
Sleep
Justin coming home from L.A. tomorrow
Yoga class Tuesday night at my house (8pm for those of you who want to join us)
Our Young Women's Mother/Daughter activity on Wednesday
November 5th, 2008
Girl's trip to Chicago in November
Our trip to Cancun in December
January 20th, 2009

8 Things on my wish list:
Lose some of the junk in my trunk
Become certified to teach yoga
Join the Peace Corp and live in Africa
Buy this for my bedroom
Buy a beach house
A little baby brother or sister for Gabby
A little daughter or son for Justin
A little son or daughter for me

8 People to tag:
I don't know 8 people that read my blog :), so...

Posh Party

2008-09-26T09:26:00.000-07:00

As we learn from the fabulous Fancy Nancy series, posh is a fancy word for fancy! Gabby and her little girlfriends had an stupendous, a fancy word for great, time at her birthday tea party.

My brother served as the Mad Hatter maître d' at the soiree. Both maître d' and soiree are French and everything French is oh so fancy.

The girls played dress up, made fancy jewelry and dined on tea sized pb&j and other hors de oeuvres with frilly toothpicks. Nancy would have been pleased as punch.

All About Gabby

2008-09-24T08:39:00.000-07:00

Day 3 of our week of "All about Gabby." I know you (as in grandma lue, mimi, and kelly) have been waiting patiently for the embargoed release of Gabby's first blog interview, so here you go.

Mom: Favorite color?

Gabby: Pink and blue and fuchsia and red and sparkles.

M: Favorite animal?

G: Tortoises

M: Favorite letter?

G: A

M: Favorite thing to do?

G: Open presents

M: Favorite food?

G: Cereal and tomatoes and avocados and oatmeal

M: Describe your momma

G: She likes to play and do yoga and give kisses.

M: Describe your daddy

G: He always plays with me everyday and we play nicely together

M: Favorite book?

G: Fancy Nancy and Alice the Fairy

M: What do you want to do in your 4th year?

G: Play with my friends and paint my mom's nails.

M: What kind of work does momma do?

G: She does typing and conference calls.

M: What kind of work does daddy do?

G: He does Obama's work.

M: Really, daddy is a lawyer, who is Obama?

G: He's dad's friend and he's president.

(Yes we've succeeded at brainwashing our Young Democrat)

M: Favorite song?

G: I love to see the temple

M: Name some of your favorite friends?

G: Caleb and Benjamin and their mom Lindsey, Makayla and Kayla, and Charlotte and Amelia

M: What do you want to be when you grow up?

G: A firefighter and then a flower.

M: Do you want a baby brother or sister?

G: A big sister and baby brother. Their names should be Fayne and Johnny.

M: Any last thoughts you want to share with people reading this?

G: Write to my father, he's nice and he helps me clean up my messes.

In Day 4's installment of "All About Gabby," we will attempt to capture Gabby's posh, that's a fancy word for fancy, Fancy Nancy Birthday party.

48 Months Old

2008-09-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GABRIELLA

(pink is her signature color)

Gabby, 12 Days Old

Gabby, 48 months old

I prefer the sound of 48 months to 4 years old--48 months sounds younger somehow and it seems we hit this milestone faster than one of Michael Phelps's Olympic swims.

Gabby agreed to go "On the Record" in an interview that will catalog her 48 months and what she hopes to accomplish in the next 12 months. The transcript will be available tomorrow.

You're Never to Young to be Pampered!

2008-09-22T15:12:00.000-07:00

With Gabby's 4th birthday coming up soon, I decided it was time for her first professional pedi/mani combo. We arrived at Fantastic Nails on Saturday morning and Gabby was told to pick a color. She was very intent on getting just the right shade of pink, finally settling on a bubblegum pink. I am not sure if Gabby was taking it all in or a little shy, because I've never seen her so quiet and focused--very unGabby-like.

After our nails were done, we went and got lunch at her favorite place--she likes the chicken and wild rice soup. Then we made a stop at the dollar store so she could pick out a treat. When we got in the car to go home, Gabby said, "Mom, we had a great day!" Couldn't have said it better myself!

What I Learned on My Summer Vacation

2008-09-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

The summer months are officially over, although in Las Vegas, the temperature still hovers in those summer 100s. I'm in a reflective mood and thought I would jot down some of the lessons I've learned this summer in the hopes that I carry them with me throughout the rest of my year.

#1 It is always good to make new friends. Gabby is particularly good at doing this. Because of my work schedule, we often go solo to things. But we are never lonely for long. Recently, at a local water park, Gabby met another Gabby and her twin sister. Upon leaving the girls gave each other big hugs as if they had known each other for years. When Jesus talked about becoming as little children, I think this is part of what he had in mind.

#2 Old friends are the best! Time seems to fly faster the older you get. I so appreciate my "old" friends who know me--flaws and all--and still want to hang out with me. Photo: Stephanie, Lindsey and myself enjoying a summer night. We dearly missed Museum Mama at this somewhat spontaneous gathering prompted by Steph's 'drive-by' on her way to Utah.

"It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them." ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

#3 Live for today. Tragedy filled the heavy summer air as we grieved for dear friends who lost loved ones. For a time, my heart was heavy and it seemed that death's fingerprints were everywhere. Even as I searched for solace, President Monson's August message, I thought at first glance, was about death. But the more I pondered his message, the more it became about living. Monson exhorts us to live for today by stating that "If we live only for tomorrow, we’ll eventually have a lot of empty yesterdays." He also challenges us to ask ourselves the question from the hymn "Have I Done any Good in the World Today?"

#4 Slow Down. #3 has forced to re-evaluate, slow down and realize that as Gandhi so perfectly puts, "There is more to life than increasing it's speed." This quote is our new family motto.

#5 Jump in the water's great! Again, being taught by my 3 year old to enjoy the spontaneous moments that make life great. Much of my summer was filled with endless cannonballs and underwater tea parties. I end the summer with a tinge of green hair, a stretched out swimsuit, and few more laugh lines and I wouldn't have it any other way. Here's to summer!

(Pre) School House Rock

2008-09-03T08:53:00.001-07:00

Gabby's 4 year old preschool kicked off yesterday with flying colors. Can you tell how excited she was? Her teacher, Miss Heather, is a rock star with street creds in teaching kids how to read by the time they leave her class. We are excited to add a little structure back to our lives after a crazy summer.

Change is a Comin'

2008-08-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

I'm on my way to the Barack Obama acceptance speech in Denver tonight (in the interest of full disclosure, this picture was not taken at the convention, but at an event in NV last year).

My boss and Nevada's own Senator Harry Reid fired up the crowd last night with his speech about moving the country towards energy independence.

It has been a whirlwind of a week and I am sure to return to my native land even more opinionated than I already am--I know, I know, some of you may be thinking, "Is that possible?"

But in the words of the great Stephen Colbert, "I'm not a fan of facts. You see, the facts can change, but my opinion will never change, no matter what the facts are."

More to come when I return from the Mile High City!

I Wish They All Could Be California

2008-08-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

Whoever said "Happiness is a journey and not a destination," clearly never spent time at the beach. This "destination" always puts a smile on my face!

Zuma Beach, California August 2008

California Dreamin'

2008-08-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

It truly has been a whirlwind couple of weeks, after returning home from Girl's Camp on Saturday, I literally had time to take a shower, pack my bags, and grab a good beach read (well maybe my book is a bit heavy for the beach, but I am enjoyed it nonetheless). Then we were off to California.

Let me tell you, going from Las Vegas to Mt. Charleston to sitting in a car for 4 hours to CA does wonders for your circulatory system. My ankles turned into the dreaded cankles and oh the bloating!

Justin, the homeopathic husband that he is, decided that what I needed was some retail therapy and a good detox. When we arrived in CA, my wonderful in-laws watched Gabby as Justin and I took off for Santa Barbara and the spa in Ojai.

Before my spa treatment the resort had a yoga class scheduled. I figured, perfect, I'll get in a good workout and get in a zen state of mind. I walk into the room and they have spin bikes out. Turns out the class is Spin Yoga. What the !#*@? I guess I am more of a purist. I don't like to mix my version of insanity (crazy lady yelling at you to pedal faster) with my Adho Mukha Svanasana.

All in all it was pure, blissful Heaven! Perfect weather, perfect food, perfect company.

And don't we look like the perfect couple! Just kidding, we had such a good time that we forgot to take any pictures--I know BAD Blogger, BAD! (Photo courtesy of Ojai Valley Inn and Spa).

10 days

2008-08-11T11:18:00.000-07:00

Last night was the first night in over TEN DAYS that I have slept in my very own yummy bed. I am back in town and will post pictures later today of what I was doing during my long blogging absence.

Kumbaya

2008-07-30T09:16:00.000-07:00

I will be spending the next few days getting in touch with my inner Kumbaya. That's right--I'm going to Girls' Camp! I know you are all jealous of my upcoming commune with Mother Nature (a.k.a latrine duty). But I do have to say, I actually find myself a little excited about the cooler air and a few days of virtual radio silence.

See you Saturday!

Enchanted

2008-07-29T17:05:00.000-07:00

I am enchanted with Enchanted. Gabby and I took a sabbatical from the movie for a couple of months, but we picked it back up for our rainy day special a week or so ago. My eyes well up every time I see the movie. I've told this to a couple of friends and a quizzical look comes over them as to why and what part I get weepy over. No it is not the utter cuteness quotient of Patrick Demspey, although I've loved him since his Can't Buy Me Love days. It is not the brilliant seamless way that the creative folks at Disney have incorporated a nod to almost every animated feature they've created in the past 70 years.

The scene that sums up my waterworks: Patrick Dempsey with his daughter in the cab and he is explaining that Nancy will be coming over the following morning for some "grown up girl bonding time." She looks at her dad and says, "Dad I'm only 6!" His reply, "Yes, but you won't always be."

(Princess Gabby at Disneyland with her cousin and Princess Aurora circa 2007)

Artist in Residence

2008-07-25T12:03:00.001-07:00

We are pleased to announce that we have hired an Artist in Residence for the Chateau de Jones. GMJ Studios, has recently taken over the living room for an exclusive showing of her latest collection.

Thanks to the semi-private tutelage of two master artists, Gabriella's work will now be featured world wide (or at least on the world wide web)!

Chateau de Jones will be keeping several pieces for our permanent collection, but grandparents feel free to place your bids for any work that you think would complement your current collection (or refrigerator).

Notice GMJ's wide arrange of genres-from Van Gogh to Mondrian and from pop art to cubism, she does it all!

Will the Real Mother Jones Please Stand Up?

2008-07-21T10:01:00.000-07:00

I became a Mother Jones by marriage, so I thought I would take a minute to post the about real mother jones. As many of my dear readers know (all 10 of you), I definitely have an opinion about most things and consider myself a bit of an old school feminist (think Susan B. Anthony type). It should not surprise you that Mother Jones, my blog's namesake, is one of the original feminists.

Mary Harris Jones, aka Mother Jones, will be celebrating her 171st birthday on August 1st, although she was known to lie about her age. She often gave her birth year as a decade older because she felt like an older age would lend more weight to her opinion. Living in a culture obsessed with youth I think...How fabulous is that? Age=Wisdom?

Mother Jones is best known as a labor organizer who worked tirelessly for economic justice. While her opponents called her the “most dangerous woman in America,” fellow organizer Elizabeth Gurley Flynn called Jones “the greatest woman agitator of our times.” Jones combined dynamic speaking skills and radical organizing methods to mobilize thousands of laborers and working-class families. She said of herself, “I’m not a humanitarian, I’m a hell-raiser.” A woman after my own heart!

The publication that bears her name states that "the nickname 'Mother' Jones was no mere rhetorical device. At the core of her beliefs was the idea that justice for working people depended on strong families, and strong families required decent working conditions." AMEN! (I am thinking about current health care, energy, mortgage crises today)

If you want to learn more about her hell raising efforts go to http://www.motherjones.com/news/special_reports/2001/05/motherjones_gorn.html.

In true post feminist fashion, I am off to do my Monday chore--laundry!

Well Laid Plans

2008-07-16T14:45:00.000-07:00

You know what they say about well laid plans! So my plan to do this today...

turned into this...

A real Vegas flood in the backyard! After a good soaking, Gabby and I dried off watching Enchanted. It reminded me of the good old days on Patrick Lane where sometimes after a downpour **, the basement would flood. The family would literally haul buckets of water out, roll back the carpet, and bring in industrial fans to dry everything out. Good times!
**At least one time the flooding was not due to mother nature, but to your very own mother jones because I left the front yard hose on overnight--sorry Mom!

The Dreaded Second Post

2008-07-15T14:22:00.000-07:00

The first post--a piece of cake. I actually thought it was kind of fun to see my name in lights and to actually get 8 whole comments! Well now comes the "Dreaded 2nd Post" and the reason why I entered into the 12 step program for blog addicts in the first place. I don't want to fall into what I see are the 3 traps of blogging:

1) Blogging just to have something up there to satisfy the addicts (that includes myself!). How many times I have gone to my favorite blogs to be left only in withdrawal because they have no updates. No cute pictures. Where does the average blogger's responsibility start and end to accommodate their readers, family, friends, et al? I can't believe how many people have already asked me about a "next post." Such pressure! (Miranda, don't worry I am not cracking under said pressure!) Keep in mind that I am not talking about someone like our witty friend over at http://www.dooce.com/ who gets paid (quite) handsomely to keep the junkies happy.

2) That is so "bloggable." Bloggable defined as doing an activity or taking a photograph with the thought in mind to post it immediately on your blog.

3) Blog Envy. Similar to number 2 but blog envy is focused on making sure you edit your entries to make sure others envy your perfect children, perfect husband, perfect homemaking skills, etc. I think most of the time this is an unconscious decision, because who really wants to waste a post writing about a recent screaming match with their kids or photograph that junk room in your house where all good goes to die? (Although I have read some great honest posts regarding those very things)

Disclaimer: I don't mean to imply that any of my dear readers do this with their blogs, but I think we have all seen examples where the blogging goes too far and you are left wondering why you aren't as perfect as they are--or maybe I am the only one?

Feel free to weigh in here--am I off the mark? I welcome honest discussion on the subject and advice on how I can keep it as real as you guys seem to be doing on your own blogs.

For now, please enjoy a picture of where I will be spending my time today, tomorrow, and the next day--in my (of course, perfect) backyard where the budget that was once allocated to feed my shoe habit now resides and where I will probably be shuffling around in a bathrobe when I am 80 because I have no equity left in my home to ever, EVER leave.

Approved

2008-07-11T09:14:00.000-07:00

I am entering the blog world kicking and screaming! After being a blog stalker, then a blog addict, I am now in blog recovery. One of the twelve steps is to identify there is a higher blogging power and if I truly want to beat 'em, I might just have to join 'em.

The other reason to post the daily (or what will probably turn out to be weekly) happenings in our world into the great WWW, is that we are officially approved to adopt again and we need your help to spread the word that we are by far the most talented, patient, creative, attractive, world-traveled adoptive family ever.

Photo courtesy of the great Haley Ann Warner