The Book of Moon 2011

Here is this year's chapter in "The Book of Moon."

CHAPTER 23

The Moon Family rejoices and is blessed.

BEHOLD, in the twenty-third year of the Tom and Terri Moon Family, there was much rejoicing.

2 And it came to pass, Cameron, having served honorably in the wilderness of Florida for the space of two years, did return home. Yea, the Moon Family was filled with much joy and rejoiced at his return. And, he did tarry for a short time, before traveling to the land of BYU in Rexburg.

3 And it came to pass, Courtney continued in her rebelliousness, and became eighteen. Yea, she accomplished high school, and worked mightily over the hot months that she might travel to the land of BYU with her brother. Yea, she did heed not the warnings of her mother and her father, and found favor in the eyes of a young man.

4 And it came to pass, Maddy continued in her love of her horn and Phantom and of bacon. Yea, she marched upon the wilderness and blew her horn. And she took possession of her sister’s bedroom on the first morning of her leaving. Yea, she rejoices much in her new room. Now, Maddy, being fifteen continues to gain knowledge as a sophomore in high school.

5 And it came to pass, Mckenna being eleven; increased in knowledge, insomuch that she became a sixth grader. Yea, she did prosper in middle school. And she did continue playing music, yea; she began to learn the bass clarinet. And she also rejoiced at having her own room.

6 And it came to pass, Tom, having labored diligently and with much love, for the space of nearly 6 ½ years, was released from his calling of Bishop. Yea, he did hearken to the words of his wife, and began to finish the basement. For, lo, Cameron and Courtney have no place to dwell in the home.

7And it came to pass; Terri did continue to find joy in her family. For, family is the most precious and desirable above all things.

8 For behold, the Moon family’s burdens have been made light, Insomuch that the windows of heaven have opened and poured blessings upon them.

9 And, verily, the Moon family makes an end of writing concerning these things for a time.

Merry Christmas!

Family time

Yesterday, our little crew decided to take a spontaneous trip. A little adventure to a place not far from here. The girls had new shoes to break in for the pioneer trek in August, and Tom wanted to have some much needed family time. So we packed a lunch and drove off in our newly cooled Suburban. (Thanks, honey!)

Palouse Falls, is about 90 minutes from here. The drive there was desolate. I think we only passed a handful of cars. When we arrived, I was surprised at the crowds milling around the parking lot and viewing area. I am not sure where they came from.

After Tom talked to the park person, he was confident our little group would have no problem hiking to the falls. We started out, confident we were up to the task. Within seconds, Maddy started expressing her discomfort. "I'm cold." "I'm hot." "This is hard." And my favorite. "Are you trying to kill me?" I was tired of hearing her whine, I felt like we must have been on the trail for an hour or more when I turned around and saw the car not too far from where we were.

I was trying to help her down a particularly rocky part of the trail when she said.

"If I die, I'm going to sue."

"Who are you going to sue? Heavenly Father for putting the rocks here?" I asked.

"Yes, and he will have to give me Eternal Life. I deserve it." She answered.

I took a few steps away from her and looked at the clear blue sky and wondered when the lightening was going to strike.

"Maddy, I think I am glad I won't be your Ma for the trek."

"I know," she said, "My company is going to hate me."

I thought for a minute and asked, "What if (crush boy) is in your group?"

Without hesitating, she said, "Then, I will stand there and look cute."

Honestly, her comments and observations had us laughing for most of the hike. We had ourselves convinced that we were going to be on an upcoming episode of I Shouldn't be Alive.Especially when Tom tried to talk us into a very narrow, complete drop off on one side part of the trail. We backtracked the way we came and made it safely back to our car and enjoyed a wonderful picnic. All in all, it was a day we needed. Being together, laughing, sweating, a little whining and eating. What more could I want?

The Book Of Moon 2010

CHAPTER 22

The Moon family continues to endure and prosper.

NOW in the 22^nd year of the Moon family, they did labor not in their basement or their wilderness. Yea, their weeds grew and did multiply abundantly across the land.

2 And it came to pass that Cameron did continue in his labors. Yea, his heart did swell in his love for the people of Florida. And he did wrestle with the gator, and he did eat its flesh and beheld that it tasted like unto chicken.

3 And it came to pass Courtney danced across the field, carrying her flag. Yea, she rejoiced in traveling across the wilderness. And Maddy, also marched across the field, carrying her large horn. Yea she did murmur at her afflictions and did rejoice mightily when the football team was defeated.

4 And it came to pass that Courtney became infected with senioritis. Yea, her hand did cramp from her writings to places of learning. And also, her schedule was full. Yea, she did not fall into idolatry. And she did find joy in the suffering of her father, for she did enjoy mocking him all the days.

5 Now, Maddy being fourteen became a freshman in high school, notwithstanding her small stature. Yea, she did partake of bacon and ice cream, and her mother was filled with much envy toward her.

6 And it came to pass; Mckenna began to be a fifth grader. Yea, her friends were numerous throughout the land. And also, she continued in the traditions of her family, and is learning the clarinet.

7 And it came to pass that Tom did continue in his service as Bishop. Yea, he did attend meetings, which begat visits, which begat service, which begat increased love, which begat meetings…

8 And it came to pass that Terri’s burdens became lighter. Yea, she did run and not faint, for she did run 3.2 miles and perished not.

9 Behold, the Moon family has old chariots. Yea, all their chariots have many, many miles on them. And yet, verily, verily, the Moon family prospered in the land, and received all manner of blessings. Yea, they did find joy in one another, and in their loved ones.

10 And again, the Moons’ make an end of writing concerning these things for a time.

Our latest project

Several months ago, my niece posted on her blog a bench she had made from plans she found on a do it yourself woodworking blog. I was curious, and after a lot of snooping around, found some plans that were just what I had been wanting in our laundry room/mudroom.

I had in our house plans, a place for built in cubbies for the kids stuff. (I would have posted a before picture, but was too embarrassed by the piles of shoes, papers, and other junk that was lying all over the floor.) The plans I found, were really close to what I had pictured in my head. Her plans were for only two lockers, but I found it was very easy to adapt it to three. Her bench was designed to have a shelf, but I wanted a place for each kid to have a basket for their shoes. Again, it was simple to change to what worked for me. I am definitely someone who likes to follow a recipe I was so glad to have someone post a plan that was easy to follow.

I know I am making it seem like I made this myself, but I couldn't have done it without my hubbies skills, and patience. He was willing to try to help me build something that was very out of our comfort zone.

It didn't take to long to build this, it sat in our garage for weeks waiting for me to fill in the nail holes, sand and paint. We got it done just in time to be put in full use for the school year.

Thank you Ana! It might take me some time, but I will be working on my sweetie to build something else for our home.

Why I broke the Sabbath....

Sunday, after dinner my very busy husband asked if I wanted to go with him to do a quick visit. I jumped at the chance to be with him. I kinda like him, so I grab any opportunity I can to be in the same vicinity as him. We drove around looking for a street that was nowhere to be found. After chatting and driving for awhile, he decided to try another time and we started for home.

I was gabbing away when he stopped and asked me if I saw the tennis ball in the street. I said no and he started backing up, telling me it had moved and looked up at him. I unrolled my window and heard loud kitten mews. I opened my door and saw an impossibly small kitten crouched on the road. I scooped her up and looked around for anymore. When I didn't see or hear anymore, I climbed in the car and tried to think of what to do. I didn't have anything, and by the way she was yelling and searching, I knew she was hungry. I told Tom to head over to the Pet emergency place by rd 100 to see if they could help us. They gave us a bottle, told us she was about three weeks old, a few instructions and sent us on our way. I had to run into Walmart to buy some kitten formula. I don't shop on Sunday, so I felt strange buying the formula, but she wasn't getting much from my fingers.

We didn't tell the girls until I walked in the house with her in my arms. Kenna and Maddy fell instantly and totally in love with her. Courtney is a bit of a hard sell. She claims she is a dog person, but I've caught her softening up a bit.

It has been almost ten years, but I am back to two to three hour feedings. She seems to be getting stronger and thanks to our dog Roxie, she is well groomed. Roxie has taken to cleaning her like a momma cat would do. I am most grateful.

Tom keeps telling the girls that she gets to stay for two weeks and then she has to find another home. He's so funny!

What Mother's Day looks like in our home this year...

I spent most of the day eagerly waiting to talk to Elder Moon, serving in the Orlando Florida mission. I was not disappointed when, at 3:47 pm our phone rang. I will need to apologize to the Relief Society president and another member of our ward that called and got my obviously annoyed response before 3:47 pm.

He sounded so good! For the next hour plus we grilled him on every aspect of his life. He is working hard, eating good, falling to bed exhausted every night, getting hot in the Florida steamy weather, serving and all around loving his life right now. I am now refreshed better than any spa day could do for me. I know my son is happy and healthy. I know he is learning and growing and his testimony of the gospel is expanding daily. For me, as his mom, that's all I need or want.

I love Stake Conference Sundays!

Yesterday was Stake conference. I love these few Sundays a year where I get to sit by my husband and he doesn't have as many responsibilities, which means he gets a much deserved relaxing Sunday.

He actually came home from his duties right when the potatoes hit the table. (A rarity, believe me.) We talked about the meeting as we passed the rolls. This is where I try to find out if the girls heard anything, and also to help jog my memory of the talks and messages that were given, so when it is my turn to share what I got out of the meeting, I will have something to say.

When it was Mckenna's turn she said, "I learned that you shouldn't play games during Stake conference." I turned and gave her dad the look that said, "You are in trouble mister."

We found out later that Courtney had been paying attention, at least to President Wamsley's talk. He spoke about a post-it note from his little grand daughter that had been on his mirror for two and a half years. It said something like "You are handsome." Courtney decided to post her feelings for her dad.

Awww! Isn't she sweet!

Merry Christmas…..The Book of Moon 2009

CHAPTER 21

The next year in the Tom and Terri Moon Family.

AND now behold, in the twenty-first year of the Tom and Terri Moon family, they did pack up their lamps and their Rubbermaid and their not so precious things and they did travel for the space of five minutes to their house that was built upon the rocks.

2 Now, Cameron did grow in his testimony of the gospel. Yea, he did desire to teach the good word. Therefore, he was called to the land of the mouse and the mighty winds. And he did seek after those who desired to know the truth. Yea, he did rejoice in those who were converted and entered into the waters of baptism.

3 And it came to pass, Courtney's afflictions were sore, for she did depart from her old school and friends to the great and spacious building that was the new school. Yea, she did not march in the wilderness, and her sorrow was great. And yet, she delighted in her stature, for she did grow taller than her father.

4 And it came to pass, Maddy continued in her love of volleyball, yea she did increase in her power in setting and bumping. Therefore, her opponents did durst not give the ball unto her. And she being thirteen has been heard to say, "Oh, woe is me. Why must I be subjected to this, my family?"

5 And it came to pass, Kenna did heed the prophet's council, yea she did pierce her ears with one hole, and she wept not. And she delighted in serving others. Therefore, her friends were many, and her family found joy in her service.

6 And it came to pass, that Tom and Terri did strive to hold on to the rod, notwithstanding the adversities of old chariots, church callings, and unfinished basements.

7 And behold, it came to pass that we did rejoice and be merry, yea; we did give thanks unto the Lord for the many blessings that have been bestowed upon us. Yea and we did pray for his blessings to be upon you.

8 And again we make an end of writing concerning these things for a time.

Deck the Moons'

This will be our first Christmas in our new home. I was looking forward to decorating for the holidays but had some challenges I didn't know how to handle. One of the sacrifices we made during the building and budgeting process was to forgo a finished fireplace, complete with a beautiful mantle. We decided we could finish that on our own. (Along with a LONG list of other projects we thought we could finish. HA!)

Anyway, the first Christmas we had Cameron, I decided to make stockings for our little family. I remember staying up very late Christmas Eve sewing them together. Every time we added a new family member, I would make a new stocking for her. I had visions of a gorgeous fireplace mantle that would one day be the perfect spot for these stockings.

When I stared at the blank wall where I knew I wanted to put the stockings, I happened to glance at the sled Tom had brought in with the rest of the Christmas bins. I decided to try something a little unusual. Before I could even finish my thought, my sweet hubby was in his car heading to Lowe's to get the stuff to make my idea a reality.

A couple of hooks, some garland I had, and some dollar store picks were all I needed to make something I really love!

A closer look at the stockings.




An even closer look at Cameron's stocking. sniff sniff

Did you know popcorn will last forever if you put it in an airtight container and store it in the attic, storage unit or garage? We realized, as we were decorating our tree this year, this popcorn string is at least fifteen years old. It was hard work! But worth it.

I LOVE Christmas!

The Number One Reason I Love the Internet!

Yes, I know, it has been awhile since I have posted. It is not like I don't have anything to post about. Our lives are crazy busy, a good crazy. It took a comment on a previous post that forced me back to my dusty, neglected blog.

Two days ago, I checked my email and read a comment from a reader that caught me completely off guard. She was from Florida and had been given my blog address from MY SON! Her kind words had me in tears. She reached out to a mommy in a way that gave me great comfort. I know he is o.k., I am so grateful to her for taking the time to connect with me. Through her facebook page, I was able to access some pictures of him at her Halloween dinner. She is so creative and fun!

Thanks Brenda!

Where's the values?

I am finding it hard to be a parent these days. It is frustrating to me to fight so hard to keep "the world" away from my little family. I am so not a perfect parent, but I don't need any help from outside forces to mess up my kids. I will do it all by myself, thank you very much.

I feel the need to rant. At dinner last night, that hubby graciously offered to cook at Jack in the Box after I had run late fitting high school band uniforms, our kids let us in on aspects of their daily lives we don't see. Courtney has been practicing with the color guard for their performance tonight at the football game. As they were working out the details for the uniforms, she realized she would, once again, be the only girl wearing a sleeve under her costume. One of the other girls didn't like that she would look different from everyone else and asked her if it was against her religion to not wear the costume the way it was "meant" to be worn. My mommy heart grew three sizes when she said. "No, I don't feel comfortable showing that much skin."

I haven't seen the color guard uniforms, I don't know what they look like. She didn't use the "My mom won't let me" and I was pleased. I am frustrated that she has to defend herself in choosing the right!

Maddy is thirteen years old. Yesterday, she brought home a paper from her science teacher asking permission to watch an unedited rated R movie. She explained in the paper, the movie taught the concept she was trying to teach. What! We don't even watch unedited PG-13 movies in our home! I was shocked this teacher was bold enough to even ask, and more disappointed in the parents who don't have a problem with their children being exposed to so much so young. If this is what is happening now, I don't want to think about what will be surrounding my grand kids.

I know we are taught to "be in the world, not of the world", but why does the world have to make it so difficult?!

First days of School

The obligatory first day of school pictures.

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School started this week, and it has been very quiet around here. It is time to start working on all the finish projects I have been putting off all summer. I have doors to paint, trim to caulk, nail holes to fill, a basement to Sheetrock, underground sprinklers to put in, seed to plant, landscaping to do....(O.K. when I say I, I mean mostly not me;)) But I will do the painting and am a bit excited to see the smudged doors with a fresh coat of shiny white paint.

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While I am working, I am sure my mind will think often on my kids. They are growing and changing so fast. I feel like I just barely took Kenna to Kindergarten last year, and here she is starting 4th grade! She has a great teacher and makes friends easily. (Perhaps she is too friendly, she admitted to me that she got in trouble for talking.)

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Maddy is in eight grade and in full volleyball mode. She loves to play, and she loves her new long socks she wears to practice. I am looking forward to her games. I wonder what they will be like compared to last year. (Maybe this year, my prayers will help get her serves over the net.)

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Chiawana High School. For months and months, I have heard from my oldest daughter what an awful place this was going to be. Courtney has a tight group of friends. They are a good group of good girls. All of them will be attending Pasco High, because of the ridiculous boundaries the district has decided on. As a junior in High School she started this new school with no close friends. She has come to accept it. She always has a smile when I pick her up. She is trying to make new friends. Seminary has been her sanctuary. There are times when I wish I had a magic wand to make things perfect. The problem is, my idea of perfect and her idea of perfect may not be what is best for her.

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So tonight, this flag-twirling, half-time performing, purple bleeding girl; will be sitting in the stadium at Edgar Brown, cheering on her best friends at their first football game of the season.

Our Summer

School starts in just a few days. I am going to miss the unscheduled laid back days. The days of sleeping in are almost over, it is time to get back into a routine for the school year.

I remember when I had to write a paper about what I did during the summer when school started. So here is a report of our summer of 2009.

:: We watched this silly girl walk the 4th of July parade with the summer band and color guard as an assistant.::

::Kenna (aka MNM) celebrated her ninth birthday complete with a yellow M&M ice cream cake::

::We played hide and seek in the dark. It is very painful when you sit on a patch of tack weed.::

::We got wet!::

::Our old college roommates came from Logan for a visit with their five kids. We had a blast! ::

::My wonderful hubby had a birthday. Courtney made a delicious lemonade pie for the occasion.::

::We shed tears!::


::I nearly gave a sweet man in our ward a heart attack when I heard a noise outside my bedroom window one Saturday morning. I thought it was Tom, and jumped out of bed to wish him good morning in my "special underwear". I was quite shocked to see that it wasn't my husband. Gratefully, I don't think he saw me. I jumped in the shower after I told Tom that someone was in our yard. As I showered, I heard the rumbling of a large piece of machinery outside. Tom came, with tears in his eyes, to tell me that their were over 100 people outside. They were pulling weeds, moving rock and leveling donated top soil. We were deeply touched. Thank you doesn't seem to cut it.::

::Last week, we literally threw our son out on the curb at the MTC. We took a couple of pictures near the temple before he was to report. I wasn't warned about how hard it would be to say good-bye for two years. I felt like my heart had been ripped out of my chest and thrown on the MTC sidewalk. The hole was there as we drove away. We will miss him.::

::We LOVE you Elder Moon!::