a bit of "Mason" madness

Family update....

2009-06-13T22:40:00.000-07:00

You would think that since I'm unemployed, I would have plenty of time to update our family blog, NOT!!!! The past month has just flown by! We've been staying busy with football, school ending, family visitors, swimming and so on. Along with all of this, we have been very busy trying to decide what our families next steps are. Jeff and I have LOVED living in Las Vegas, but have decided that we are going to move back home to Idaho Falls. We can't think of a better place to start over and raise our family. So, Jeff left a couple of weeks ago to try and find work and will come back to get the kids and I at the end of this month! What a surprise, another big move for the Mason family!!!!!! Let's pray that this is the last one for a very long time. Here are a bunch of recent random pictures. ENJOY!!!!

Aunt Emily came to visit....YEAH!

Little Jane-Marie sound asleep, finally!

Jane-Marie all smiles!!!!

Mr. Zach smiling like always

Cole and Brock hanging with M&M man

Zach & Jane-Marie had to hang too!

My sister Kim and I being silly on the strip. We are so CUTE!!!!!

Rose family photo....The twins are getting soooo tall!

Zachary being sweet Zachary

Cole looking too cool like always

Just never stop trying!

2009-05-12T00:51:00.000-07:00

Great Movie Scenes 17 of 50 - Rudy

I had to share a clip from my favorite movie......RUDY If you've never seen it then you need to pop some popcorn, grab a blanket and a box of tissues. I've been suffering from major insomnia and found Rudy on TV early Tuesday morning and thought I would share. I thought it was quite ironic that during a time when I'm feeling so beaten down and just want to quit, I come across this movie. The thing that I love about this movie is the determination and passion Rudy displayed to overcome the obstacles that he faced in his journey. It has reminded me that hard work does and will pay off and you can't quit or "they" win. In the end, you will achieve your goal, it might not be on your time frame, but you will win!

Okay, enough "inspirational moments" by Christie Mason...I need to go to sleep!

Life....

2009-05-03T21:59:00.000-07:00

Ahh what to do when life keeps throwing lemons your way? I would usually make a some "sweet" lemonade, but right now I'm just too tired!!!! These past couple of weeks have been very, very busy. Cole and Brock are getting close to finishing school and are both very busy taking test after test. In between studying, Brock finished the schools J.A.W.S program in 2nd place winning a medal! If your wondering what J.A.W.S is....it's basically a program that award kids for every mile they walk or run at school. Brock ran 135 miles putting him 2nd in the whole school!!! Pretty awesome!

We also had some old friends visit us....my dear high school friends, Jenn Campbell, Angie Field and Kim Longhurst(not in the picture cause she left early) came to hang in Vegas! We spent 3 days talking, shopping, eating and talking some more. They even got "scared" Christie to go to the top of the stratosphere and ride the "wonderful" rides. They loved every minute, I thought I was going to die! Honestly it was wonderful seeing them and spending time together. I think we've decided to make this a yearly tradition.

Last Tuesday, Jeff and I took the kids swimming at our pool. I decided to run to the store to get treats and while gone, Zach decided to put his hand in a uncovered 2inch vacuum hole in the pool. Zach quickly realized his hand/arm were stuck and screamed for his dad. Jeff and another man desperately tried freeing him for several minutes worrying they were going to break every bone by pulling so hard. Once Jeff heard Zach say "daddy I'm just going to die" he decided to yank his arm out with all his strength. I got back to the pool just a minute later and we rushed Zach to the emergency toom. After a very scary, long night in the ER and seeing a specialist the following morning, it looks like Mr. Zach will be making a full recovery. The color and swelling are getting better everyday with elevation and massaging! I can't tell you how thankful I am to have my sweet little boy with me! I have never known fear like that and I pray I will never again. Here's a picture of his injury..

We got Zach home and thought all was settling down when Jeff and Cole found themselves broke down in the Altima off I-95. Our little "Sally" has been our car since Cole was born and we knew she was getting old, but we hoped she could hold out for a little while longer....but nope, she's done! We are still looking into all of our options, but it looks like she has driven her last mile!

Which leads me to the final "lemon" of the week...I went to work on Saturday afternoon and was handed termination papers! My two direct supervisors finally decided that I was not worth keeping around and fired me listing "unsatisfactory job performance" as the reason! I knew this would be coming, but I'm still shocked by all of it! I knew that my career was going to end and I could resign with my head held down or get fired with my head held high. My head is high because I was fired for speaking the truth, upholding my values and defending those who couldn't defend themselves. For the next few days, I'm just going to breathe and try to digest everything!

So...hopefully the Mason family will be spared some "lemons" for a little while, so we can use up the ones we already have!

My job update......

2009-04-28T01:28:00.000-07:00

Since I have so many friends and family that want to know what the heck’s been going on with my job and I can’t get to everyone…I thought I would update you all through our blog! As you know this transfer has shown me many challenges including leaving my family, selling our home, getting the kids settled into a completely new world and then suddenly loosing my mom. Ultimately the most challenging part has been adapting to the way things are ran in a Las Vegas store! I jumped into the store with both feet forward and started breaking down each and every broken piece of the business. I quickly found out that the business was much more “broken” than I was lead to believe and that my two direct supervisors had very specific yet contradicting expectations on how to repair and rebuild the store. For the first 61/2 months I tried to fix/run/excel the business the way everyone else wanted me to do while including my own ideas whenever possible….ultimately making my job 3 times more difficult and only giving me average results. Now don’t get me wrong, average results are pretty darn good with the current economic conditions and the condition that this store was in! But….average doesn’t cut it in THIS store. After much thought and consideration I decided to go above my direct supervisors head and speak to her boss regarding my frustrations with the lack of and inconsistant direction/leadership being given to me. Basically I told her that I was hired to do a job and am being challenged and judged that the job isn’t being done to the fullest potent ional, but am not getting the support needed to achieve all goals. I also spoke to her about some concerns I had with the “quiet expectations” to work off the clock, which is a big “no, no”. By doing so I knew that I was either going to get the much needed support and direction or I was going to end my career!!!! I ended my career…..within 1 week the communication towards me went from “we want you and this store to succeed” to “we don’t think you are the right person for this store and if you transfer to another store you will avoid the probability of being remove involuntarily from the store and company”. When I didn’t jump at the chance to transfer and take a pay cut, the communication was elevated to include the Vice President of all stores telling him how much damage will be done if I’m allowed to stay in my store. Knowing I had nothing more to loose and clearly seeing I was being set up because I had stepped out of bounds with my “clear feedback” I once again opened my mouth! I decided to once again take responsibilities for my errors within this business but also point out the lack of leadership I’d received. The conversation ended with the understanding that all of us would come together the following week and create a plan that worked for me and the company. Last Tuesday, instead of creating that plan, I was asked to resign immediately! If I resigned that day, the company would graciously waive my relocation contract therefore ensuring I wouldn’t have to repay the money spend to move me to Vegas. Oh, and I had about one hour to make my decision or the “generous” offer would no longer be available! In that moment I found myself saying “what horrible thing did I do that would prompt this company to quickly turn on me”? My answer….I opened my mouth and followed my gut! So, I turned down the offer for resignation, called my dear friend Robyn (who’s husband just happens to be a lawyer), called and left a very direct message on the Vice Presidents voicemail, spoke to the head of our HR department telling her what was ‘really” going on and that I refused to enter into any further conversations without HR present…and so on! They now knew I wasn’t going to quit so Friday morning they complete the first step in firing me and delivered my annual performance review along with my first ever corrective action (with HR present) rating me a 1.87, which is the lowest job rating I’ve ever received. If I’d wasn't there myself I never would have believed what they said about me!!!! Here’s a sample for your enjoyment:

Christie has not created an environment where associates want to do there best. She has difficulty assessing her team and coaching each associate individually to get the best performance out of them. The lack of accountability has shown the overall store is not compliant in any area of operations, service or talent. The team has not been successful and so morale has been low and the team lacks the passion, drive and enthusiasm to drive results. Often times they don’t want to do their best because expectations aren’t communicated and Christie never follows up with training or involves herself in this area.

Yet, just a few weeks ago I helped a customer in my store and she emailed this to our company customer service department:

I would like to take a moment to say “well done” to Christie and the staff at the Las
Vegas Blvd store. I walk into this store just to look but Christie’s quick acknowledgment of me and her insightful questions and suggestions soon led me to a dressing room. I walked in with nothing in mind but walked out with several items that I love!!! She was not pushy and was extremely honest. I then walked over to J Crew to exchange but I was not ever approached or greeted and I ended up returning not exchanging. I wanted to try on but know one would help me. Christie was so up beat and alert…she managed and the customers and the staff with expertise. It was clear to me that she enjoys her job and that WHBM is fortunate to have her representing her product.

Thank you,
Camille/Richland, WA

Hmm….a little difference in opinion don’t ya think!

So today and everyday until July I’m going to go to work and do my job, the job I was hired to do and just breathe. Once my contract ends, I will be hanging up the “high heels” and retiring from the wonderful world of retail management. Jeff and I are still trying to figure out what our next steps will be, but we are both in agreement that I can no longer do this! I got into this business because I had the biggest love and passion for every part of the customer experience. I woke up each day feeling like I was making a difference for someone by ensuring that they could look in the mirror and love what they saw!!! In the last 8 months I have had every ounce of that love and passion sucked out of me along with the most hurtful personal attacks anyone should ever hear. I’m finally going to take some time to relax and find me again while being a mom/wife!!!!

I can’t say enough how thankful I am for all the love and support I’ve been given these past months. Their hasn’t been one day or even one hour go by without Jeff, my dad, one of my sisters, Jeff’s family or my friends and mentors reaching out to me to see what they can do to get me through the day! I love you all and know that my Heavenly Father is watching over me because he has surrounded me with people like you! I’ve added an email that my dear friend Cathy sent to me that I thought you might enjoy……

One day a farmer's donkey fell down into a
well. The animal cried piteously for hours as
the farmer tried to figure out what to do.
Finally, he decided the animal was old, and the
well needed to be covered up anyway;
it just wasn't worth it to retrieve the donkey.
He invited all his neighbors to come over and help him. They all
grabbed a shovel and began to shovel dirt into the well. At first, the
donkey realized what was happening and cried
horribly. Then, to everyone's amazement he
quieted down.
A few shovel loads later, the farmer finally
looked down the well. He was astonished at what
he saw. With each shovel of dirt that hit his
back, the donkey was doing something amazing.
He would shake it off and take a step up.
As the farmer's neighbors continued to shovel
dirt on top of the animal, he would shake it
off and take a step up.. Pretty soon, everyone was amazed as the donkey stepped
up over the edge of the well and happily trotted off!

Life is going to shovel dirt on you, all kinds
of dirt. The trick to getting out of the well
is to shake it off and take a step up. Each of
our troubles is a steppingstone. We can get out of the deepest wells
just by not stopping, never giving up! Shake it off and take a step
up. Remember the five simple rules to be happy:

Free your heart from hatred - Forgive.
Free your mind from worries - Most never happen.
Live simply and appreciate what you have.
Give more.
Expect less.
NOW ............

Enough of that crap . . The donkey later came back, and bit the farmer
who had tried to bury him. The gash from the bite got infected and
the farmer eventually died in agony from septic shock.

MORAL FROM TODAY'S LESSON:
When you do something wrong, and try to cover your ass, it always comes back to bite you.

One more...

2009-04-22T21:45:00.000-07:00

As I said I recently received two emails that spoke "loudly" to me, so here is the second one! Thanks Dad for knowing just what I needed!

We all know about the original Ten Commandments, but have you ever heard of "The Second Ten Commandments"? These pearls often have been attributed to one Elodie Armstrong; here they are with my spin on them:
•Thou shall not worry, for worry is the most unproductive of all human activities. People get so busy worrying about yesterday or tomorrow, they forget about today. Today is what you have to work with.
•Thou shall not be fearful, for most of the things we fear never occur. Every crisis is multiplied when we act out of fear. Fear is a self-fulfilling emotion. When we fear something, we empower it. If we refuse to concede to our fear, there is nothing to fear.
•Thou shall not cross bridges before you come to them, for no one yet has succeeded in accomplishing this. Solve the issues before you right now. Tomorrow's problems may not even be problems when tomorrow comes!
•Thou shall face each problem as it comes. You can only handle one at a time anyway. Problem solving is not easy, so don't make it harder.
•Thou shall not take problems to bed with you, for they make very poor bedfellows. Problems seem much worse at night. If I wake up thinking of a problem, I tell myself that it will seem lighter in the morning and it always is.
•Thou shall not borrow other people's problems. They can better care for them than you can. I confess that I have broken this commandment because I wanted to help someone without being asked, or I thought I was more equipped to handle a situation. But I wouldn't have to deal with the consequences, either.
•Thou shall not try to relive yesterday. For good or ill, it is forever gone. Concentrate on what is happening in your life and be happy now! We think life will be better after we get a better job, make more money, get married, have a baby, buy a bigger house and so on. Yet, any of those may not make any difference. You are responsible for your own happiness.
•Thou shall be a good listener, for only when you listen do you hear ideas different from your own. You can win more friends with your ears than with your mouth. Hearing is a sense, but listening is an art. Success could hinge on whether you have mastered it. Most people won't listen to what you're saying unless they feel you have listened to them.
•Thou shall not become "bogged down" by frustration, for 90 percent of it is rooted in self-pity and will only interfere with positive action. Better to take a break, collect your thoughts, and redirect your attention to a positive first step. Then go on from there.
•Thou shall count thy blessings, never overlooking the small ones, for a lot of small blessings add up to a big one. We all have something to be grateful for, even on the worst days. Hey, you're still on the green side of the grass, aren't you?
•Thou shall be a good listener, for only when you listen do you hear ideas different from your own. You can win more friends with your ears than with your mouth. Hearing is a sense, but listening is an art. Success could hinge on whether you have mastered it. Most people won't listen to what you're saying unless they feel you have listened to them.
•Thou shall not become "bogged down" by frustration, for 90 percent of it is rooted in self-pity and will only interfere with positive action. Better to take a break, collect your thoughts, and redirect your attention to a positive first step. Then go on from there.
•Thou shall count thy blessings, never overlooking the small ones, for a lot of small blessings add up to a big one. We all have something to be grateful for, even on the worst days. Hey, you're still on the green side of the grass, aren't you?

Just what I needed!

2009-04-21T23:00:00.001-07:00

I had to share this with all my family and friends! Tonight I opened my email and had received two very "interesting" notes/thoughts from my dad and a very dear friend/mentor Cathy Capri! It's no coincidence that these came to me the same day that I was presented with yet another challenge/decision within my job! I thought I'd share one tonight and the other tomorrow! I hope the "wise words" help you as much as they did me! Thanks again Dad & Cathy...love you both!

ENLIGHTENED PERSPECTIVES

Please Read all the way to the bottom: If you will take the time to read these. I promise you'll come away with an enlightened perspective. The subjects covered affect us all on a daily basis:

They're written by Andy Rooney , a man who has the gift of saying so much with so few words. Enjoy.......

I've learned.... That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.

I've learned.... That when you're in love, it shows.

I've learned.... That just one person saying to me, 'You've made my day!' makes my day.

I've learned.... That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.

I've learned.... That being kind is more important than being right.

I've learned.... That you should never say no to a gift from a child.

I've learned.... That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.

I've learned.... That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.

I've learned.... That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.

I've learned.... That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.

I've learned.... That life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.

I've learned.... That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.

I've learned.... That money doesn't buy class.

I've learned.... That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.

I've learned... That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.

I've learned....... That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.

I 've learned.... That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.

I've learned.... That love, not time, heals all wounds.

I've learned.... That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.

I've learned... That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile....

I've learned.... That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.

I've learned... That life is tough, but I'm tougher.

I've learned.... That opportunities are never lost, someone will take the ones you miss.

I've learned... That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.

I've learned..... That I wish I could have told my Mom that I love her one more time before she passed away...

I've learned.... That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow he may have to eat them.

I've learned.... That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

I've learned.... That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.

I've learned.... That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.

I've learned.... That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.

To all of you.... Make sure you read all the way down to the last sentence....

It's National Friendship Week. Show your friends how much you care.. Send this to everyone you consider a FRIEND, even if it means sending it back to the person who sent it to you. If it comes back to you, then you'll know you have a circle of friends. HAPPY FRIENDSHIP WEEK TO YOU!!!!!! YOU ARE MY FRIEND AND I AM HONORED! Now send this to every friend you have!! And to your family. This was sent to me by a friend..

A special thank you....

2009-04-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

I just had to shout out a very special thanks to my sister Kim for taking the great pictures of our family! It's been SEVERAL years since we've had a family picture and Kim did such a wonderful job, even with me in the photos!!! Love you Kim very very much and I'm so grateful for all that you do for me, everyday!

2009-04-19T23:55:00.001-07:00

I’m finally updating all of you on what’s new with the Mason family! Please forgive my rambling….I’m not the best writer which is why I don’t update the blog very often!

Jeff….is keeping very busy taking care of all the kids since his wife is never home. He’s gotten pretty good at car pools, school projects, grocery shopping and so on! He would be mad at me if he new that I was saying these things because he thinks he’s not the best person because he stays home, but I’m here to say….he ROCKS! We’ve finally decided to break down and figure out a way to get him a “smaller” version of his dream Mac computer. He wants to start doing some more designing and can’t do anything with the crappy computer we have, so Apple store here we come!

Me….. still trying to do the general manager thing and be somewhat of a mom and wife at the same time. Many of you already know that this job/company is not being very kind to me and I’ve been having a really hard time. It's gone from me just being tired at the end of the day, to me being mentally and physically exhausted at the end of the day. I think I’m seriously thinking of retiring very soon from the wonderful world of retail! I think after 15yrs I’ve paid my debt to society!

Cole….just keeping busy with football and friends. He’s on a team that is still undefeated for the season! Sports continue to be his #1 love after that it’s his mom. I love that he’ll still come lay in bed with me and watch a lifetime movie, right after he’s brought me a Diet Dr. Pepper! He’s doing so great in school and has made some great friends. We went to Idaho a couple of weeks ago and I loved watching Cole with his little cousins. He is the one that is always watching over then, making sure they have just what they need and aren’t getting left behind!

Brock…..is still Brock, always happy! He’s gotten so big, now taller than Cole (which we don’t say out loud)! He is doing awesome in school, so awesome he just got an award for his GPA which is a 3.95!!! Not only is he a smarty pants, he’s become quite the runner at his school receiving an award for running over 100 miles! It’s a program that his PE teacher put together and Brock jumped right in and is in 2nd place even though he joined the school/program mid-year! Finally, Brock has decided that he loves to swim! My kids have always been natural “fishes” so when Brock asked me to show him how to swim like me….I jumped for joy! He’s amazing in the water and is currently perfecting his breathing techniques.

Mr. Zach…..is being wonderful like always. It’s amazing how he still is the sweetest boy ever, unless Jane-Marie wants his cars! Speaking of cars….we now own stock in NASCAR! Not really, but we do own a lot of cars! Last month Grandpa Toombs came to Vegas to attend the races and gave Zach a Jimmie Johnson hat and well the rest is history….thanks a lot Grandpa . Zach has always loved cars, but now is hooked on NASCAR, to the extreme he prefers to watch the races on TV instead of cartoons! Jeff’s sister Nicole bonded with him over his NASCAR cars and now is receiving multiple phone calls regarding the race results!!!!!!

Janie girl…..is now quite the “drama queen”. I have no idea where her emotions come from (it can’t be the Toombs blood running through her) because she has become a major pain in the butt! While in Idaho, Jeff’s mom got to see how she can work up some tears rather quickly. Yet just as fast, turn those brown eyes around to melt your heart. Aunt Kim and Uncle Darren babysat on night and quickly had her Uncle Darren wrapped around her little fingers. We’ve decided that if anything ever happens to us, Jane-Marie will live with them….no questions.

I guess that’s enough talking for now! We miss you all so very much and wish we were closer! The following are some recent random pictures….ENJOY

This is the only picture that needs some explanation! Zach came into my room one night and sAid that he needed some paper so he could "stamp" his toes!!! Very creative don't ya think!

2009-02-24T23:47:00.000-08:00

Surprise, surprise, and surprise another birthday post! I know it seems like that’s all I post about, and it is but I do like to wish my loved ones a very happy birthday! Jeff celebrated his 25th birthday on Monday (hee, hee)! I won’t share how old he is, but I’m going to share “41” great and random facts about him!!!

1. He’s very funny
2. He’s cute
3. He has a lot of compassion for everyone
4. He’s very, very smart
5. He makes a “mean” cheeseburger
6. He loves being a dad
7. He hates to wear socks and will only wear sandals
8. He’s a night owl
9. He makes his boys a home lunch every morning with whatever they want
10. He has un-conditional love for me
11. He wishes he had more hair, so he’ll only let me give him a haircut
12. He hates to swim because he doesn’t like water to get into his ears
13. He’s a complete “smart ass”
14. He really hates talking on the phone but will talk to me just to make me
happy
15. He’s an amazing artist
16. He created a comic book in junior high and sold issues to his friends
17. He loves to golf and wishes he could do it a lot more
18. He loves the Denver Broncos
19. He hates the Oakland Raiders
20. He loves salt and vinegar potato chips
21. He can do almost any math problem in his head...
22. He really doesn’t like any type of Italian food
23. He will do anything that I ask him to do ANYTHING
24. He loves his parents and sisters very much and wishes we were able to closer
to them
25. He is completely the most “selfless” person I’ve ever known
26. He wishes he could buy his “dream” Mac computer
27. He gets up with me every morning at 5am just so he can spend time with me
before I leave for work
28. He hates to camp
29. He loves the sun so moving to Las Vegas was a “no brainier”
30. He hates feet…my feet especially
31. His favorite type of food is Mexican
32. He loves fruit…peaches, pineapple, strawberries and red grapes
33. He is the master at Excel and has stayed awake many nights creating/fixing
documents for my work
34. He would love to buy a corvette, but knows he’ll probably end up buying
something for me instead and that would be just fine for him
35. He hates people that gossip
36. He drives the boys to school everyday so they don’t have to get up any
earlier to catch the bus
37. He a very hard worker doing anything and everything to make life easier for
those he loves
38. He loves to stay up late at night watching old movies. For example….he’s
currently out in the family room watching his 2nd Dirty Harry movie.
39. He loves to get a back scratch after I get my nails done
40. He always wanted a little girl named “Jane”
41. He’s a great loving dad and husband and I’m glad he’s mine

Happy Birthday Jeff……I Love You

Our princess turns "3".......

2009-01-30T22:33:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe that Jane-Marie is already three years old. I'm a little late in posting about her birthday(nothing new for me when it comes to blogging) but I still wanted to share some of my thoughts about our sweet little girl, and of course PICTURES! I will never forget the day that I found out that I was pregnant "again" with Jane-Marie. I don't think I've shared this story with very many people because I truly am very embarrassed by how upset I was. It all began like a normal Monday work morning for me at Ann Taylor with me opening the store, setting up my management meeting schedule and preparing for my afternoon conference call. Then....it all changed!!! Mindy(my Asst. Manager) was working with me that morning and started talking about how crappy she was feeling due to that "time of the month"". I was surprised to hear that Mindy was already experiencing "that time" because our cycles were almost identical. Mindy clearly saw that look of "what" on my face and immediately said "you're late"!! I quickly disagreed with her and told her that our days were just off! Mindy of course wouldn't shut-up about it the was convinced that I was pregnant...to the extreme that she spent her lunch break driving to the grocery store and buying me a pregnancy test! Long story short, I took the test at work, got a positive result and completely freaked out! Of course I was in no condition to finish my day at work(being completely hysterical) so I decided to go see my Obgyn immediately and check for sure. After two pregnancy tests and an ultra sound, I was finally convinced...I was pregnant AGAIN! I really couldn't believe that I was going to have another baby and I really didn't know how I felt about it. After getting home and sharing the "big" news with Jeff, I thought that I would calm down and be happy. NOT!!!!! I wasn't happy for several months, to the extreme that I really just tried to pretend that I wasn't pregnant. I was having a bad dream and I would wake up and all would be "normal". Well, I finally did "wake up" and realized that I was going to have another baby and well...."thank heaven for precious little girls"! We were blessed with our sweet little Jane-Marie on January 11, 2006. I now look at my wonderful family and cannot imagine life without her. Jane-Marie is vibrant, sweet, beautiful, loving, spunky and well practically perfect in every way(at least I think so). Everyday, I thank my Father in Heaven for allowing me to be her mom and pray that I can raise her the way he would like me too. So, Happy Birthday my sweet little princess.....I'm so happy that you're my daughter!

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2 months old

Blessing

1st. Birthday

Jane-Marie is now 2yrs old...can't you tell

Just trying to look happy

3rd Birthday

Dora the Explorer/Jane-Marie posing for her b-day picture

Dora again

Jane-Marie's favorite look which says "whatever"

2008 Family Photo Album....

2009-01-16T18:48:00.001-08:00

2009-01-16T17:31:00.000-08:00

This was sent to me and I just couldn't resist forwarding it onto everyone I know and of couse...posting it on my blog! I hope all the men reading it, ENJOY!!!!!

NINE WORDS WOMEN USE

(1) Fine : This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up.
(2) Five Minutes : If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch TV before helping around the house.
(3) Nothing : This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end in fine.
(4) Go Ahead : This is a dare, not permission. Don't Do It!
(5) Loud Sigh : This is actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you about nothing. (Refer back to # 3 for the meaning of nothing.)
(6) That's Okay : This is one of the most dangerous statements a women can make to a man. That's okay means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.
(7) Thanks : A woman is thanking you..do not question, or faint. Just say you're welcome. (I want to add in a clause here - This is true, unless she says 'Thanks a lot' - that is PURE sarcasm and she is not thanking you at all. DO NOT say 'you're welcome'. That will bring on a 'whatever'.
(8) Whatever : Is a woman's way of saying Up Yours!
(9) Don't worry about it, I'll do it : Another dangerous statement, meaning this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking 'What's wrong?' For the woman's response refer to # 3.

Did someone say Neil Diamond???

2009-01-01T20:37:00.001-08:00

Stay tuned for full concert details........

Happy New Year.....

2009-01-01T17:33:00.000-08:00

Well, 2009 is finally here and we celebrated it for the first time in Las Vegas! We decided to stay away from the craziness of the city and have our own celebration, including dinner at the Olive Garden, movie's for the kids, games and ginger ale in champagne glasses! It was pretty simple but very fun to just be together as a family. We hope you all had a fun and safe New Years!

The Mason family wishing all of you a Happy New Year!!!!

Family Update.....

2008-12-21T22:03:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry it's been so long since our last post, but life had been a little crazy for the Mason family. In the last month, we sold our home in Utah, moved the family to Las Vegas, enrolled the kids in school, celebrated Thanksgiving, sold alot of clothes and so on and so on........ The time has certainly gone by very fast, and we can't believe Christmas is just a few days away. We wish you all the very best throughout this holiday season and wish we were spending it together! Here are some recent pictures we've taken! I hope you enjoy the variety...we've got some of the kids, our Christmas tree and what it looks like in Vegas when it SNOWS. ENJOY!!!!

Happy Birthday to my sister Natalie.......

2008-11-24T21:44:00.000-08:00

So. some of my sister's have started this "tradition" that on one sister's birthday, another sister will post something about her on their blog. I decided that I would go ahead and make a post to wish my little sister Natalie a very "happy birthday". I'm still buried in boxes so I don't have any funny, embarrassing or classic pictures of her, so I posted her recent family picture...which is "very" cute!!!! Here are some great memories and facts about Miss Natalie.......
1. Natalie was actually born on Thanksgiving day in 1977. She loved that fact so much that she would remind the "whole" family of it every year! Hee Hee
2. Natalie has always been able to out EAT anyone...and not gain a single pound. She has no butt and chicken legs, but is still very, very beautiful. I've always been jealous of her cute figure.
3. Natalie is a very kind, loving and sensitive person. She will always be the first to step in and help someone in need. She is a true example of the "silent servant".
4. Natalie is a great wife and mother. She had a very TOUGH first marriage to a man that may I say was quite a JERK!!!!!! Nat always held her head high and maintained strength and dignity even when many around her worked and worked to bring her down. She met and married a great man and now has 4 beautiful daughters. Natalie's days completely revolve around her family and it truly shows in her wonderful family,
5. Natalie can be very annoying at times! When we were little, Natalie would pick and nag me to the point that I would seriously beat her up to shut her up! Now at the age of 31, she doesn't do that anymore...but she will keep saying the same thing over and over until one of the sisters, Quinn, or someone actually listens to her! We still love ya!!
6. Natalie is actually very smart. She's always been very hard on herself because sometimes things just go "right over her head", but that's because she's too sweet and nice to catch the "crap". Natalie started her "adult" life very young and is a very good wife, mother, sister, friend, neighbor and church leader. Now you can't be all of those things without being VERY smart.
7.Finally, Natalie is a great sister. When we were little, we shared a bedroom and we would play and play for hours. We would dance, sing, play house, whatever we could think of. Natalie was the type of sister that would play whatever I told her too!!!! Natalie is still the one that will do anything and everything for her sisters. She is usually the first to place a random phone call just say 'hi" or be there to help with anything that is needed! So to my very Beautiful, Loving, Compassionate, Annoying and Smart sister.....HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2008-11-03T20:45:00.001-08:00

My Mom....

2008-11-03T20:06:00.000-08:00

I've had a very difficult time bringing myself to create this post! How do you post pictures of your mother after she suddenly passes away? I have gone back and forth with whether of not I truly had the inner strength to put something together that would appropriately show my love for her. Since I'm currently living in "2" places, I don't have access to all my pictures! I was able to find these and I hope that by looking at the few I've posted, you will see how beautiful and wonderful she really was. I'm so thankful that I was able to talk to my mom just a few days before she died. Since moving to Las Vegas, my parents became very concerned about me and on Thursday evening, she called me just to "check" in, making sure I was doing okay! Over the years, I learned not to lie to my mom because she always saw right through me, so I shared with her the "truth" of how I was doing. As you probably guessed, it had been a really hard day. That night she said several things to me(that she had said 100 times before)but one thing stood out to me. She said "Chris, remember what the Lord said; "I never said it would be easy, I only said it would be worth it". That night I related this to our move, my job, etc. Now, I relate it to loosing her so suddenly! I miss you mom very much! It's not easy, it's the hardest thing I've ever dealt with, but I know it will be worth it because you are now in paradise and we will be together again.

Happy Halloween.......

2008-11-02T21:49:00.000-08:00

I thought all of you would like so see some very "cute" Halloween pictures. I was able to get home for a few days to spend some "spooky" time with the family!

The Mason goblins.....

Jane-Marie and Mom!!!! Sorry, I don't know how to rotate the picture!!!!

Zach...Lighting McQuenn...need I say more!

Dora or Jane-Marie?

Brock dressed as some Star Wars dude!!

Finally...the best costume award goes to......Cole Mason

Please Pray....

2008-09-25T01:42:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a long time since I've updated our family blog, but life has been a little crazy for the Mason family. Jeff and the kids are still in Utah while I'm here in Vegas, just shy of being apart for 3 months!! I'm not one to complain, but this separation/relocation had been extremely hard on our family. Jeff is working extremely hard to take care of "4" busy kids, while keeping the house immaculate at all times, because you never know when someone wants to stop by for a home tour! For any normal mother, this would be a big challenge....for any normal father, this is impossible! Jeff has done an amazing job, but he can only survive alone for so long! As for me, my challenge is different, yet still difficult. I'm trying to run a multi-million dollar store in a strange city, live alone for the 1st time and not loose my mind because I can't tuck the kids into bed or hug Jeff each day!

So...let me get to the point of this post. I'm asking that all our family and friends please say an extra prayer for our family. Please ask that our house will sell very soon(without another price reduction), the kids will continue to know and understand why our family is apart, Jeff will continue to have enough strength and patience as a single dad and that I will soon know that all of "this" was the best thing for our family's future.

"4" Random Things....

2008-08-25T20:54:00.000-07:00

I got this from my sisters blog, thought I would copy!

"4" random things I like about my husband~ his patience, his wisdom, his ability to show endless compassion, his talents
"4" movies that I would watch more than once~Hope Floats, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Sweet Home Alabama, The Notebook
"4" Shows I watch~ Private Practice, Desperate Housewives, Brothers and Sisters
"4" places that I have been~ Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York City and Puerto Rico
"4" people who e-mail me regularly~ My sisters, my friends.. Heather, Jamie and Jenny
"4" favorite foods~ Anything Mexican, chicken salads, pasta salads and cheesecake
"4" places that I would like to visit~ Italy, Hawaii, Alaska and Germany
"4" things I am looking forward to in the coming year~ Selling my HOUSE, Completing the move to Las Vegas, Having more quality time with my family, Relaxing(maybe)
"4" people I tag~ Anyone who has the time to complete!

My "temporary" home in Vegas

2008-08-24T18:38:00.001-07:00

Cole's heading to Junior High.....

2008-08-24T17:00:00.000-07:00

I didn't think anything could be harder than getting Cole ready for Kindergarden until I had to get him ready for 7th grade. After lots of panic attacks, tears, and some "intense" shopping at American Eagle.....he was ready to go. Don't let the "non-smiling" pictures fool you, he's very excited! Just trying to look "cool".

Brock's First Day of 5th Grade...

2008-08-24T15:37:00.000-07:00

So hard to believe that the summer vacation has ended! You would think that Brock would want his vacation to continue.....but nope! As you can see, the smile on his face tells everyone he's ready to go back to school!

My Husband!!

2008-07-24T23:37:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I've been transferred to run a store in Las Vegas! In my absence the "huge" job of running a household has fallen solely on Jeff. To tell him how thankful I am for all he's doing and how much I love him... I thought I'd list "10" things that make Jeff so great:
1. Jeff is by far the most "selfless" person I know. He'll put everyone else ahead of himself, usually resulting in him going without.
2. Jeff loves his children more and more everyday! He spends the majority of his time teaching them, playing with them, laughing with them and ultimately ensuring that they are safe.
3. Jeff is so artistically talented. He was always at the top of his class, making the professors have to think extra hard to find any fault with his work. Many don't know that he's won numerous local and state awards for designs that as he would say were "just okay"!!!
4. If you haven't figure it out yet, Jeff is humble...sometimes a little too humble. He very rarely will allow anyone to praise him for anything, always saying "it's no big deal".
5. Jeff is very very smart. So smart that we've all given up trying to beat him at the game "are you smarter than a 5Th grader"! Seriously, he always got straight A's in school with very little effort I might add. Thank goodness our kids are taking after him.
6. Jeff is a very caring compassionate person. He has such a sweet way of letting everyone know how much he loves them! Sometimes it's through his words, but usually he'll just place his hand on your shoulder letting you know he's thinking about you!
7. Jeff is good looking! Once again he won't agree, but I think he gets cuter and cuter the older he gets, and man is he getting old!!!!!
8. Jeff is a very hard worker. One of the reason why I fell in love with him is because he had the same work ethic as my dad. He'll do the hardest, dirtiest, most time-consuming job usually without being asked. Not only does he still do carpet cleaning/restoration work 25 hrs. a week, he is building his logo business while meeting every need for 4 children and a "very" high maintenance wife.
9. Jeff has extreme patience. It takes ALOT to make Jeff angry and it very rarely happens. Usually I'm the only one that can push him to the point that he raises his voice, and believe me it takes alot of "Toombs" pushing.
10. Finally, Jeff is great because he loves me unconditionally. I'm sure that all would agree that I can be a little emotional, dramatic, unreasonable, impatient(I think that's enough). Through it all, he's always there with a hug and a kiss telling me that "he loves me and all is okay". I wouldn't be "me" without his constant love and support.

Thanks Jeff for all you do to just be "you"!

Mr. Cole and Mr. Brock

2008-07-12T23:41:00.000-07:00

Cole & Brock recently had their birthdays, so I had to make a special post just for them! Since their so close in age, they have always been raised like twins. What one does, the other copies and what one wants, the other must have! I feel so blessed to have such loving, caring and responsible boys. They hardly ever complain and are always eager to help with anything whether the're asked or not! Sometimes I look at both of them and can't believe that someone like me was chosen to be their mom! So to my "best buddies".... you make me very proud and are loved very much!!!!!

Happy Happy Birthday

Signs of Summer

2008-06-19T00:51:00.000-07:00

For all of you who "truly" know me, know how much I love spending time in my yard! It doesn't matter if I'm mowing the lawn, pulling weeds or pruning my roses...I love being outside! Since I was young I have spent MANY long, hot hours working outside and let's just say it's my favorite part of summer. I had to post a recent picture of my roses. What a beautiful sign that summer is finally here. So, to all my family and friends....enjoy the hot, sunny, summer days and don't forget to "stop and smell the flowers!

Happy "late" Birthday Zach!!

2008-06-17T21:46:00.001-07:00

Jane-Marie...Our Princess

2008-05-18T18:23:00.001-07:00

The Mason Family

2008-05-14T21:03:00.001-07:00

Okay, I know it's not professional but here's a picture of our family. Someday I hope to get us in a studio, but for now you'll have to take us dining at the famous "Cliffhouse" restaurant in San Fransisco. We hope you all enjoy the following entry's of our recent family vacation to California.

"Holiday roll.....The Mason truckster going on vacation!

2008-05-14T20:36:00.000-07:00

We're all smiles, ready to head out on vacaion. Hopefully the smiles will last for a few miles!!

It's Reno.....

2008-05-14T20:27:00.001-07:00

First stop Reno, NV. Who new this place was so big!! I was enjoying the town until two half dressed women tryed flirting with Cole!!!!! Not Good.

Wow...the Ocean!!

2008-05-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

As you can see by the pictures.... we were all excited to finally see the ocean, except for Jane-Marie she wasn't quite sure what she thought

We found San Francisco!

2008-05-14T19:37:00.000-07:00

Well, our first "big" city stop on our road trip was San Fran..... The kids saw everything from bridges, to Lombard Street, Alcatrez and Fisherman's Warf. We had a great time and can't wait to go back(without the kids)!

Random Scenery

2008-05-14T18:54:00.000-07:00

Disneyland..........

2008-05-14T18:43:00.001-07:00

EXHAUSTED!!!!!!

2008-05-14T18:37:00.001-07:00

Zach finds Lighting!!

2008-05-14T18:24:00.000-07:00

After days of searching, Zach finally finds Lighting and Mater in the Pixar Parade. This was the highlight of the trip for him.

Just a day at the beach!

2008-05-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

After 2 great days at Disneyland, we decided to head to the beach. Here are some pictures of the kids enjoying the ocean.

Final Day at Disneyland....

2008-05-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

Our last pictures at Disneyland. Whew....what a trip!

Small Detour....

2008-05-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

On our way home, we found ourselves traveling right through the area my parents were stationed at when I was born...George Air Force Base in Victorville,CA. I have never been back to the area, so I couldn't resist taking a look. Sadly, the base closed back in the early 1990's and almost everything has either been torn down or vandalized. The above pictures are of the "family" housing units where we would have lived and the security gate at the main entrance. Seeing this was so neat, yet very sad. Sometimes I wish I could travel back in time and see my dad in uniform and my mom raising 4 little girls in that tiny house!

Almost Home.....

2008-05-05T19:55:00.000-07:00

Some pictures taken outside of St.George, UT. Too beautiful!!!!

Home At Last!!

2008-05-05T19:28:00.000-07:00

After 10 "wonderful" days together, we finally arrived home and even though we had a great time, I think you can see by the pictures we were all happy to be back in Utah....

Tagged!

2008-04-03T14:58:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a very long time since I posted anything on our blog. I am so sorry!!! I have had the darnest time figuring this whole thing out. Hopefully I won't post something wrong. I thought I would share this recent tag from one of my sisters, followed by some recent pictures of our family. ENJOY!!!!

Where were you born? Apple Valley, Calf.
Middle Name? Marie
How old will you be this year? 33
Nicknames? Chris... Mama Bear(Jeff)... Crispy Critter(Dad)... Boss(work)
Are you taller than you mother or your father? I seriously doubt it. I am very, very short.
Do you cry often during movies? Sometimes. It really depends on my mood at the time.
What is your biggest pet peeve? People that gossip! It doesn't matter what they say or why, I think it is so rude and very hurtful.
Favorite Color? Red and Dark yellow.
Favorite Foods? Mexican and Seafood.
Favorite Restaurants? Cafe Rio, McGraths and Olive Garden.
Favorite Beverage? Diet Dr.Pepper and Raspberry Lemonade.
Favorite Smells? Jeff's aftershave, a new baby, roses and vanilla.
What brand Shampoo/Conditioner do you use? Pantene
Favorite make-up products? Hard to say. I love make-up. I would say.. I couldn't live without powder foundation, eyeliner and mascara.
How many pillows do you sleep with? Only 1...
Do you play an instrument? Yes, the piano.
Have you ever been skinny dipping? Nope,and never plan too.
Did you play any sports in high school? Cheerleading, volleyball and track.
What was the last movie you saw in the theatre? Untraceable.
What is your favorite article of clothing? Well, I have alot of clothes since I sell them for a living, but my all time favorite is a matching sweatsuit outfit, a baseball hat and sandals.
What is your dream vacation? Anywhere with the ocean!
What was your first impression of your spouse? I remember thinking that he was very, very nice. He worked for my dad and whenever I was working with him he always seemed so caring and attentive to everyone. I have always admired that about him. He would do anything for anyone, even if it meant a personal sacrifice for him.
What is your favorite "me time" activity? Shopping and going for long walks.
Favorite TV shows? The Apprentice, Law&Order, and Brothers&Sisters.
What is your dream car? BMW X5
What is one of your weaknesses? Worrying too much what other people think of me.
What do you fix for dinner when there is nothing to fix? Tacos! YUM-O
If you could live in a different decade/era, which would it be? I think the 1960's. Lots of change was happening and I think it would of been a great thing to be apart of.
Do you consider yourself outgoing? Yeah, I think so.
What is something you're constantly working on? My yard. It is never exactly the way I want it.
Any hiddens talents? I have been told that I can sing pretty good, but I don't really know.
What is a word or phrase you overuse? Probably plenty of swear words!
What is the hardest thing that happened to you this past year? Watching Jeff say goodbye to his Gram ma Lindsay. He had such a deep love and admiration for her and was deeply saddened by her death.
What is the best thing that happened to you this past year? Paying off our debt. It feels wonderful to be debt free.
What is one thing you hope to accomplish this year? Only 1 thing? Finally get the District Sales Manager job that I have been working for since I started in retail management.
The best piece of advice you learned this past year? Actually I learned this a very long time ago, but I love it! Live... Laugh... Love... Live each day to the fullest, laugh when you want to cry, and always love others more than you are loved yourself.
Who are 7 people you're going to tag? everyone who wants to do it.

Some recent pictures of the kids.....

2008-04-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

Visit from Gramma and Grandpa Mason

2008-04-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

We were so happy to have Gramma and Grandpa at our house for Jeff's birthday. The kids love it when family comes to visit. We miss our family so much and wish we lived closer.

"He said, She said"

2008-02-14T15:46:00.000-08:00

So I am posting our first comment about the Mason family, and who better to talk about than Jeff....

What is his name? Jeffrey David Mason

How long have you been married? 13 years

How long did you date? A little over a year before we got married. But we like each other much longer!

Who eats more sweets? I do! Jeff really doesn't like sweets.

Who said I love you first? He did and it was the sweetest words I had ever heard. He was very nervous because he worked for my dad and was afraid of falling in love with the bosses daughter.

Who is taller? He is!

Who can sing better? Hard to answer because Jeff really doesn't sing. I would probably say me.

Who is smarter? Jeff by far! He is so smart it makes me sick. You would never know because he is so humble.

Who does the laundry? Both. It's a team effort in this house.

Who pays the bills? He does. Jeff is very good with money.

Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? That would be me.

Who mows the lawn? I do always! I love yard work so it just makes sense for me to do it.

Who makes dinner? Whoever is home. Once againg, it is

Who is more stubborn? That would be me! I have the Toomb's blood running through me!

Who kissed who first? Can't really say. We kinda just kissed each other.

Who proposed? He did. He took me to Sandpiper in Pocatello and gave me a set of new scriptures and inside the front cover he had written my proposal.

Who has the most siblings? Me, 5 sisters.

Who wears the pants in the house? Hard to answer. Jeff is much nicer than me and more patient so I guess I would say "me".