Lofgreen Family

Summer Fun!

2011-07-29T16:42:00.001-07:00

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-14T14:03:00.000-08:00

2010 has been very good to the Lofgreen family of seven

First, we finally got our little girl straight from heaven.

Eden Garland was born in April healthy and well

She’s the cutest little thing and has cast a love spell

Her brothers, daddy and mommy just can’t get enough

And everyone tells us with four big brothers she’s sure to grow up tough.

At 2 ½ years old, Reef is a darling independent little man.

He’s tries to do as much on his own as he can.

He asks to eat chicken, play with the dog & in the kitchen sink he will bathe.

When his brothers to return home from school, Reef has it made

Mayer, age 5, started kindergarten, reads and writes his name.

He loves art, reading and playing Uno the game.

On Saturday morning, he’s mommy’s little garage sale buddy

Earning his allowance is teaching him how to be clever with money.

Payson, age 8, is active, jumping and slam-dunking the basketball

There’s nothing this kid can’t do; in other words he does it all.

Great grades at school, especially in math

Everything is a race and he does his homework and chores really fast.

Chandler, age 10, is a focused student and motivated young man

He scores well in school and helps with babysitting when he can.

Being a big brother means helping Mom when ever she asks

But he still finds time to play basketball, scouts and other tasks.

Laura enjoys staying home full-time and taking care of the crew

Working on a novel and selling on eBay is also something she’ll do

My Dear Trash.com is her blog where she writes about thrift store finds

Giving garage sale tips, craigslist advice and anything else on her mind.

Derek is the head chief and a loving daddy to his little ones

He brings home candy from bunnies and likes to plan fun.

Playing basketball, hiking, camping and visiting the zoo.

Organizing chores & keeping up with the kid’s homework will do.

A trip to Newport, California to visit the beach

Vacationing in Flagstaff to get out of the summer heat.

Swimming, housework, neighborhood walks as the sun sets in the sky

We love being together & sharing in this beautiful life as time goes by.

Heavenly Father is love and His son in the Reason

We wish you love and peace this Holiday Season.

Merry Christmas 2009

2009-12-19T06:19:00.000-08:00

The sun has set in the Arizona sky

And 2009 is about to slip by

With lots of love and plenty of fun

We’ll give the annual Lofgreen poem another run

Chandler is in 4^th grade and plays in a basketball league

He makes hoops, grabs rebounds and is never fatigued

Writing and reading are his favorite subjects in school

But playing with his brothers is always more cool

Payson is a math & reading whiz and loves 2^nd grade

He dominates his basketball league with every shot being made

He runs like a blur and his nickname is Dash

Just about everything he does, he does really fast

Mayer is an artist, coloring about 12 hours a day

Preschool is his favorite; he always wants to stay

He zips around on his scooter and rides his little bike

Snuggling with mom and dad is another thing he likes

Reef is just so cute, getting love throughout the day

He looks for his daddy and older brothers when they are away

Playing with the garden hose, covered in water is his thing

The dogs are his buddies, such joy they do bring

Derek stays busy at work, helping clients who come his way

“We’re grateful for our blessings,” he says when he prays

He takes the boys hiking, to the park and the zoo

With this growing gang there’s always something to do

Laura continues to work on her blogs, books and writing

Sending manuscripts to editors and agents is always exciting

A baby girl will join us in April 2010

We were shocked it wasn’t a little boy again

We love watching our sweet boys grow into men

We wish you a Merry Christmas, Amen and Amen.

How to make and sell money on Ebay.

2009-11-12T10:21:00.001-08:00

A lot of you know I’ve sold on EBAY for years and love it! I'm expecting my fifth child and still find the time and energy to sell on EBAY because it really pays off. I get lots of interest/questions from friends and family (and people standing behind me at the post office when I have 100 items or more to ship). How do you do this? Where do you find stuff to sell? Do you make lots of money?

With this in mind, I have started a blog at www.mydeartrash.blogspot.com, posting my weekly, even daily EBAY experiences and how I do what I do.

Also, you’ll learn a little about my philosophy; finding value where others may not see it. I make money off what people throw away. There’s a bit of joy too, recycling items for this beautiful green Earth. And yes, I make money.

I hope you can learn something and perhaps, in this crazy economy, make a little (or a lot) of money. I also hope you laugh, because some of this stuff is really funny (like the pink Care Bear hoodie sweatshirt I purchased for $1.00 at Goodwill and sold this week for $24.99).

Please feel free to forward this to others you may know who either sell on EBAY or may be interested in learning about selling on EBAY and I’d love if you’d become a follower too.

Have a happy day.

Laura

Halloween and Hair Cuts

2009-11-12T09:23:00.000-08:00

Derek wins the prize this year for most original costume. He was a baby, yes, a binky-sucking, diaper-wearing baby. Now's a good time to mention Derek's a kid at heart.

All my boys are so cute.

Haircuts around here are a bit like pulling teeth, especially with Chandler (he hates change). Here are a few before and afters.

Sunday with Grandma and Grandpa Lofgreen

2009-10-11T15:14:00.001-07:00

Thanks for the songs, pushing Reef in the swing, the tickles and love.

Smile, Reef

2009-10-11T15:09:00.000-07:00

I asked Reef to smile for the camera and he really got into it. This kid has it figured out.

Payson & Mayer caught in the act.

2009-10-11T14:56:00.000-07:00

Q: "Boys, have you seen Mommy's camera?"

A: "No, Mom we don't know where it is."

Q: "Are you sure? Chandler said you were playing with it earlier."

A: "We haven't seen it."

The proof's in the pudding, so to speak.

Rain in Arizona

2009-09-20T10:05:00.001-07:00

A rare occasion – it rained. The boys spent all morning following leaves and sticks down the gutter. Even Reef got into it. He has to keep up with the big boys.

Going to the circus only to watch our kids.

2009-08-09T23:39:00.000-07:00

“We’ve never taken the kids to the circus,” Derek says to me and by the regretful tone in his voice, it’s obvious we’ve made a terrible mistake.
My mind scrolls through highlights of amusement parks, parties and special events we’ve taken our kids too and I say back to him: “Yes, honey, I’m sure the lack of circus exposure qualifies as child abuse for sure.”
But Derek is serious about this, let’s call it “circus neglect”, but he’s also a big kid in a man’s body. He loves to play with bouncing balls, watch animal tricks on you-tube and eat Halloween candy until he’s sick. So what he’s really saying is “I want to go to the circus.”
Am I a lucky wife, or what!
I purchase 5 tickets to the circus (Reef’s still free because his little buns don’t take up much space) in downtown Phoenix. The circus is big business now. It’s no longer in a red and white striped big top tent held together with ropes, but a 40,000 seat cosmopolitan air-conditioned arena.
We find our seats and watch as the elephants make there way onto the massive three-ring stage when something magical happens.

Our kid’s faces start to glow, their cheeks turn rosy and their eyes light up. They’re on the edge of their seats watching with such delight that it takes my breath away.
And so for most of the night, I watch Chandler, who’s almost 10, but he still has so much innocence about him, he’s quite taken with the tigers, especially the albino one.

And Payson, my little boy who rarely sits still is mesmerized by the racing motorcycles in the metal mesh balls.

And Mayer, laughing at the clowns chasing the poodles, pointing out to me the silly costumes.

“That dog is wearing pink shorts,” he says.

And Reef, overly-stimulated by the lights and live elaborate band, but he’s good as long as a bottle is in his little paws.

And Derek, enjoying every minute because he wanted to take his kids to the circus.

But the fun doesn't stop when the curtains close, because the escalator provides even more entertainment.

Thrill of the Hunt

2009-08-01T01:44:00.001-07:00

I’m working on EBAY again. Why? Because I’m an addict.
It’s simple. If there is a way to reverse gambling or be on the other side of a winning jackpot, that’s what EBAY is to me. There’s never a risk and I win big every time.
It starts the night before with a somewhat anxious sleep. Dreaming of racks of clothes, designer jeans and long glamorous dresses. I can never sleep the night before dollar day at Goodwill. By 9:00am the next morning, I’m out the door, practically running to the car, tripping over my kids good-bye kisses. I fumble for me keys, secure my water bottle in my purse, pull my hair ties from my wrist and wrap my hair up in a tight ponytail. The hunt is on.
I dodge through traffic, stopping briefly for the old woman crossing the road, mumbling under my breath while my fingers tap on the steering wheel. “Come on,” I say to her impatiently. The store opens in 3 minutes. When did I become so rude?
The red balloons near the sidewalk in front of the Goodwill are a good marketing ploy, announcing dollar day like an actual celebration for drivers passing by and it may pull in a few meager patrons, but I know other addicts like me mark their calendar for this special day too. Balloons or not, we’d be there with our own helium.
Goodwill has a funny smell, like the dishes are still in the sink from last night’s supper. Yes, tangy, but to me it’s the smell of opportunity.
Once I step inside the slightly malfunctioning sliding door, more balloons wave a color, another color. A clue. Yes, today there are pink balloons. This means all pink tags are $1.00.
What can I get with $1.00 at another store? A pack of gum? No, gum is not like what, $1.29? Seriously, Goodwill is different. Oh, look at that pink tagged item on the rack in front of me. I leap and reach. With the grace of a ballerina I pull at the hanger and it clicks off the rack like gold bracelet’s clanging together. Let’s see. First the label.
Yes, Juicy Couture.
I LOVE Juicy Couture. I’d marry it if I could (not really, honey, I’m just joking). Fabric, Linen. Size, Large. Any spots, tears, stains. I’m like an emergency room shopper scanning my patient for injury with x-ray vision. Relief washes over my face as I look at a perfect $1.00 item. I might earn $15.00 with this shirt posted on EBAY. The listing will read: Juicy Couture Large Linen Empire Waist White Cute Shirt. I’m such a writer. I can’t escape it. By the way, I’ve really bonded to Lady GaGa. I think she loves clothes as much as I do, but I digress.
I slow down as I approach the jean rack. If I’m lucky, I’m the first to browse. Slowly now, to saver it a bit, I look at the first pair of jeans as I lick my lips. American Eagle, but no, they have a green tag. A causality, but I can’t let it get me down, knowing all too well it will be a distant memory in mere seconds. Next, Tommy Hilfiger, Size 7. Juniors don’t sell well on EBAY, so I pass. Plus, the style is pre 1990’s, not for my EBAY page. I have the highest standards. Now, what do we have here? Volcom Stone Jeans, pink tag, they smell a bit like bud, yes I mean dope, I don’t know how I know this because I’ve never smoked weed, but someone how I instinctively know. Someone’s been getting high in these beauty’s, but there mine now. I remove them from the hanger, perform a brief examination, scan the size, and make sure the button and zipper works. Another score. I’ll post these for $9.99.
What’s this? Another pair of hot low-rise jeans, but I’m not sure the label. Joe’s? Joe’s Jeans? Never heard of it, but I can tell by the European labeling, plus the jeans are sized by waist. Waist 26 inches, and the back pockets are gleaming with fancy embroidering. I’m gushing. How can I not? I have a feeling these will sell for big money.
So, let me fast forward. I’ve purchased over $100.00 of merchandise and it’s all sitting in my living room. My living room now smells tangy and I haven’t eaten lunch yet. I wash my hands and watch as the water turns brown. Yes, it’s dirty work. I grab an apple and pick up Reef. He’s so cute. Kisses and more kisses with his tongue hanging out. Love it.
I’m sitting at my computer and log into EBAY. I search Joe’s Jeans, remember, Joe’s, the mystery designer that sounds more like the name of a mechanic than a clothing designer, but they look too good for me to stereotype. Dozen’s of Joe’s Jeans fill the EBAY page and I find most sell for anywhere between $60.00 to $175.00. I knew it. And this is where the gambling analogy comes into play. How much will I win? Will I hit the jackpot? It’s exciting. Even Chandler’s getting into it, asking every day before the jeans sell “What is the bid for Joe’s Jeans up to now, Mom.”
I have many crushes, including Tommy Bahama, J. Jill, Janeville, FLAX, CP Shades, Hot Cotton, Diesel, Sevens for all Mankind, Citizens for Humanity, any thing Ralph Lauren for women in plus sizes (size 16 or higher). I could go on and on, (White House Black Market, Chico’s, J. Crew, can anyone say Rock and Republic) but I already have. Who donates this stuff?
It’s so bad; I can actually predict the designer label just by looking at the clothing on the rack. Without even touching it I might think Ann Taylor, and I’m usually right. And I can tell if it’s Wal-mart (White Stag), Target (Merona) or JC Penney (too many to list). More than once I’ve brought home a mystery item because the quality is too good to pass up. Last week, I found a pair of XVCI pants and find out they sell new at Anthroplogie for $140.00. I list them as XCVI Medium Wearables Cropped Drawstring Cargo Pants and sell them for $24.99.
Is there an EBAY Anonymous? But I won’t stop, I already know. Denial big time.
But I make cash, have fun, donate to charity, shop green and keep the post office busy with plenty of business. In this economy, I’m a princess in so many ways.
So, guess what I found out. Saver’s Thrift store has a dollar day on Mondays. Looks like Sunday nights will become restless for this addict.

I need to get Reef off the table while I'm working.

A brand called Horny Toad. It sells well for being so froggy.

Armani. Georgio, I love you like family.

A Tommy Bahama knock-off. I lost money on this one, better luck next time.

Portrait of a Lady

2009-07-27T01:22:00.000-07:00

“I need a photo of you for your book jacket,” Doug says, my great publicist.
A photo? Of me? Sure, I’ve got plenty of pictures. Let’s see, there’s several from the beach this summer. Payson and I at the aquarium, Chandler with me at the dock, Derek and I at a concert.
“No,” Doug says. “I need a photo of just you.”
Just me? When was the last time I took a photo of just me?
My senior year in high school I poised, my chin tilted just so, my smile held a little too long, looking more like a mug shot than a yearbook photo.
There was a photo of me for my mission plaque. It hung in the church for 18 months. Before my mission I might wear a vintage psychedelic mini dress, or something like that, but my commitment to my mission meant real change. The day of my mission photo I wore a long cream white rayon dress, pinned cameo at the neckline and a baby doll bow tied around my waist. My mom took the photo and I certainly looked like a sister missionary, but funny, I don’t remember wearing that dress ever again.
So now? There hasn’t been a photo taken of me without a baby in my arms for almost 10 years.

I tell Derek about Doug’s request and he volunteers to be the photographer, suggesting after dinner we go outside, near the antique light post in the back yard. I find a dress that makes me feel pretty, apply my makeup, fix my hair, fluff it some and pull it behind my ear. Let’s do this thing.
We go outside and I stand next to the lamp post. I put my arm around it, leaning into it like it’s my child and I smile for my close up.

We download the first round of photos on the computer. I look, really look and realize the dress is all wrong. This is not the photo I thought I was taking. It’s like staring at a twin I never knew I had. The dress, among other things, is not working. At first I’m naive enough to blame it on the dress.

I change into a different dress, a black dress, with a little bow at the neck. Black. Slimming. Classic.
We try again. Derek lines up the camera and I’m not sure if I should smile or not. This is not a photo I necessarily want to pose for. I need to look savvy, yet humble, confident, yet vulnerable. But how?

So, we start a series of shots, me looking up to the sky, looking over Derek’s shoulder with what I pray is a hint of youth coming through in my smile; my artistic talent gleaming in my eyes. Or at least that’s what I hope.

We download the photos on the computer and again, I’m disappointed, in an “Am I really that old?” type of way.

Payson likes a few, but points out the photos he doesn’t like with the look on his face like he’s eaten a bad egg. The kid is so cute; he couldn’t take a bad photograph even if I paid him.
The next day we decide to try again. It’s 114 degrees, 95% humidity and I’m outside by our red front door wearing a lavender cashmere sweater.
“You look like you’re hot,” Derek says and flashes me his gorgeous smile just as I wince, my eyes glaring. Click. He takes a picture. Delete that one.

I think of Stephenie Meyer. Her photo on her book jacket is stately, her in a studious library, sitting on a burgundy velvet couch, her thick healthy hair bouncing over her shoulder like a shampoo commercial.
Can I produce a photo that represents me?
I change clothes again, put my hair up, go outside by the red door, than rashly let my hair down again. With the patience of Job, Derek clicks the camera again. He’s actually enjoying this and takes a moment to tell me I’m pretty.
“You’re my china doll,” he says, smiles and looks into my soul. The man understands me like no one else. I smile and I contemplate the moment, this very moment, like our first kiss or the first time he said “I love you.” This is sweet. Click.
Once again, the photos are downloaded and I consider my options. I can go back to the drawing board and start over or I can be gracious, forgiving even, of my imperfect features and appreciate that I’m not 75 years old yet. Ah, but there’s a third option.
It's called Photo shop!
I work the retouch button like a joy stick. Good bye wrinkles, blemishes, unwanted freckles. It’s a computer game I can’t loose. And when I’m finished I have an audience of my little boys pointing, giggling, and enjoying the computer screen full of mommy photos.
“I love that one,” Chandler says, spotting the photo of me smiling, one of the few photos of me smiling actually. It’s the photo Derek took as I day dreamed for just a moment about our first kiss. Thank you, honey.

A Jewel of a Night

2009-07-20T11:17:00.000-07:00

I love Jewel and when Derek suggests we go see her in concert, I jump into his arms and kiss him on the mouth.
I buy the cheap seats off the internet, it’s a thing we do since we’re raising four kids, have two dogs and own a thirty year mortgage.
It’s never fun, climbing the stairs to the balcony seats, getting further and further away from the stage, but the exercise is fine and once we get passed the fourth floor, I figure it can’t be much further.
The opening act is great; Ashley ______________ (can’t remember her last name). It’s hard to tell if she’s wearing shoes or not, my vision’s a bit blurry from way up here, but I love the no-shoe thing (like when Julia Roberts was married), very earthy. I nestle into Derek’s arms and close my eyes. Perfect. Why do I need to look when what I really want to do is listen?
After an hour, the lights turn on, a 15 minute intermission until Jewel arrives. The theater’s gorgeous. I have a great view of the ceiling chandeliers and Derek’s ocean blue eyes.
“Excuse me,” someone says and we both look at a lovely lady standing in front of us. “I have two extra seats near the stage, would you like to join me?”
Is she a fairy godmother in jeans? Her blonde hair almost glitters against her beautiful face and something about her glows.
“Thank you,” Derek says, looking back at me with surprise. “We’d love too.” And he takes my hand as we stand up.
So we follow her to the elevator and descend back into the valley below.

(Our seats were way up there, somewhere)!
We introduce ourselves and find out this postmodern dream maker is Gwen Foster, Morning D.J. on Camel Country 108.

“So . . . I have extra seats,” she smiles, aware of the happiness she’s shared.
It’s like moving from Pluto to Mercury to get a better view of the sun. I can see everything. I blow a kiss to Jewel and she catches it. Her music is spectacular, I cry when she sings about being her own best friend. I take that to heart. I will be my own best friend. She sings somewhere between innocence and seduction. Back and forth, between low and high range octaves, belting it out and then lassoing it back into a sound like tender youth. We recognize many songs, top 40 hits and when it gets personal, I realize this sweet woman has poured her soul into each presentation. She’s a song writer, a writer, who was once homeless, but she kept writing and as she says, “My life turned around and here I am.” When she yodels I’m certain she’s super woman.
“Thank you for coming,” Jewel says near the end of her performance. “I like to write songs and package it with a little cleavage so it goes down easier.” Laughter, applause as she sings her last tune. Standing ovation and she graciously performs another.

Yes, Jewel you are gorgeous, curvaceous and lovely to look at, but your music stands on its own. We’d love it even if you didn’t come in such a pretty package.
After the show, we hug Gwen, our new best friend, and Derek and I sneak to the back of the building. Jewel’s tour bus is a white stallion on 16 wheels. Her assistant Amy greets several fans waiting near the bus.
“I’m sorry, but Jewel will not be able to sign any autographs tonight.”
“Can I give her something,” I ask as the crowd leaves the parking lot.
“Absolutely,” and I hand Amy some information about my book. On a “Colors of the Sea” bookmark is a message I write that read’s “Jewel, will you read my book?”
I dream big and don’t apologize for it.
Derek carries my high heels in his hands as we walk back to the car. An after-thought monsoon blows it dry wind and hundreds of tiny leaves escape a mesquite tree, falling to the ground like over-sized snowdrops.
If Jewel emails me and requests a manuscript, I’ll let you know.

Peach Pie Angel

2009-07-11T20:01:00.001-07:00

Excuse me a moment while I take another bite of peach pie. A homemade delicious fresh peach pie, but I didn’t make it, oh no, my life’s too busy. I’m just the one who has found it – on my kitchen counter – placed there by a peach pie angel. Isn't it pretty.

Derek has reminded me more then once, I’m embarrassed to admit, to lock the doors when I leave the house. Most days I do, but some days, in a hurried state, racing to start errands before Reef needs a diaper change or a nap, trying to find shoes for Mayer, checking to see if the dog has water, grabbing Reef’s bottle and waiting for Payson to change out of his pajamas, asking Chandler to help me find my car keys, I rush out of the house, only to be reminded later by Derek that I forgot to lock the door again (please no lectures at this point, I already get plenty by my beloved).
This morning my house is a wreck. A demolition crew is on my doorstep when I wake up and I kindly inform them I didn’t order a wrecking ball. The ball has already hit! It did several days ago.
A trip to the dollar store is the only bribe I need to motivate my kids to help clean the kitchen, the family room, the laundry room, Oh! the laundry room. They do a great job, it looks brilliant and as we rush off to an afternoon birthday party, I make sure we have the gift wrapped, the card filled out, all the boys swimsuits, sun block, diapers, bottles, and I double-checked the dog’s water bowl, turn off the T.V., find a band-aid for Payson’s hurt toe, help Mayer find socks (this is after I suggested he wear flip-flops to a pool party), put the milk back in the refrigerator and finally, comb my hair.
I return home, walking in the garage door, looping around the hallway into the kitchen, Reef in my arms, he’s squirming, tired for a nap and crying for his bottle, and I noticed something on the counter, like Cinderella has put it there herself.
A pie.
A beautiful, warm peach pie, waiting, just waiting to be enjoyed. Suddenly I feel a bit nostalgic, like when I received a surprise as a child and a colliage of friends and family who would do something like this for me run through my mind.
But who did this? Why? How?
Ah . . . I left my door unlocked and I smile.
I take a fork out of the dishwasher and pierce the crust and it sings with aroma like a vocalist who’s finally been discovered. The peaches serenade me in a sugary butter sauce, a church choir of dripping juice, a combination of sweet and sour flavors chanting on my fork. I bring it up to my mouth and then Reef stops crying, opens his mouth and enjoys the first bite.
Thank you, my peach pie angel, who ever you are. I love you and if I lock my door, will you still come?

A father's day picture worth a thousand words

2009-06-28T01:14:00.000-07:00

A father’s day idea turns a photo session into well, you decide. I had to use it for something productive, ah yes, a blog posting.
So, imagine, all four boys, decked out in their Phoenix Suns jersey’s, looking good and ready for me to take a picture to give daddy for father’s day. Simple thing. Sweet, right?
They’re all on the trampoline and I turn my camera on. It’s a little slow, an older camera.
“Just a minute now boys, smile, hold on let me get this ready, alright - SMILE,” but suddenly Reef’s not happy, he wants me, crying, screaming, reaching to me like we’re being pulled apart by a ferocious monster demon from hell. He’s hyper-ventilating until finally I realize taking a photograph at this point will actually incriminate me. Notice how Chandler is still smiling. I've trained him well, but Payson and Mayer are confused, still young and innocent.

I pick him up, hold him and say a few endearing words as a bead of sweat runs down my back. He calms down, but there's no way he's letting me put him back down. We jump off the trampoline and walk over to the hammock. They love the hammock, so many great memories on the hammock. This should turn out great, but Payson stops and yells out. He’s crying now, a painful shout.
“It’s a splinter,” he blares while I conclude it’s probably a pine needle from the pine tree just above us, darn things. This happens all the time, so it will be alright, let me just take that thing out. O.K., let’s try again over to the hammock.
“Lay down, guys. Cuddle up. This is for Dad.”
“Mom, the suns soooooo bright, it hurts my eyes. Do we have to do this,” Chandler says while Payson wipes his last tear away from his eye. He’s still in pain from the pine needle/splinter (they’re called needles for a reason). His face is flushed and wants a band-aid, but Mayer used them all yesterday during a melt-down of his own. Note to self: stock up on band-aides.
I want to lay Reef next to Chandler. Still holding him, I stretch him away from my body and he reacts like I’m pushing him off a tall building, like off a moving airplane. He thinks he’s falling.
“You’re alright, Reef,” I say, but he doesn’t think so. I can tell by the way he’s arching his back and screaming. Reef’s grabbing for me, reaching and pulling my skin like he’s peeling a banana. The physical pain’s too much so I pull him back into me, hold him and pat him gently on the back. In the mean time, Payson, always joking, rocks the hammock and off they all fall. Mayer’s crying, “Hold me, Momma, I’m hurt.” Chandler’s dirty, mud on his elbow he can’t get off.
The camera goes into my pocket while I calm Mayer and Reef down. Chandler has an idea. The grapefruit tree.
“Great idea, Chandler. Let’s do it,” I say.
He examines the limbs of the tree and suggests Reef sit near the higher branches, straddled some how.
Climbing up, he reaches back and expects me to hand Reef to him.
“I don’t think that’s such a good idea, buddy,” I say as Reef wiggles out of my arms. He’s spotted a ball on the ground.

Payson’s cooperating, climbing right behind Chandler and suddenly I realize this might work, but as Mayer get’s situated Payson hollers out about the branch that just pocked him in the arm. Chandler is concerned he won’t be able to get down, after all Payson is in his way and now Mayer is actually falling, holding onto his branch like a one-foot fall to the ground would do him serious harm.
“Look guys, Reef’s happy. Can you smile? It looks great,” I say in my best impersonation of a happy mom. Yes, they go for it and they’re all smiling, except for Reef. The ball’s rolling away, but wait! Our dog Sadie jumps in front of Reef, distracting him from the ball. Reef’s smiling and bonus: Sadie’s in the picture.
Everyone’s happy, smiling and I take three shots before Reef starts to crawl away.
Take a look. Here’s a clue: Sadie! This is the best shot I got and it just won’t do!

2009-06-20T00:49:00.000-07:00

Derek and I went to the beach with all the boys and we have nothing disastrous to say about it because we all survived. This trip took us to Winona’s hometown in California, Long Beach and the adjoining beaches Huntington, Newport and Laguna. In case your wondering who Winona is, check out my website at www.lauralofgreen.com to get glimpse of my book Colors of the Sea.
On Sunday, we started at the Aquarium of the Pacific, celebrating their annual Hawaiian Festival. Petting sting rays and watching sharks, we couldn’t get enough. Mayer fell apart when the aquarium mascot, a man dress in a shark costume, passed us by. Thankfully, we caught up with him later for photo opts and Mayer is still talking about how happy this made him.
Monday we checked into our amazing timeshare hotel and watched cable television for a whole 24 hours. With three TV’s, we each had our pick of channel surfing. Derek and I watched Mr. and Mrs. Smith, the history channel and E!. I think that night we had popsicles for dinner, and chocolate chips. Nothing like mom’s home cooking.
Tuesday we meet up with Katie, a.k.a Butler, my beloved and long lost missionary companion from Santa Clarita. The girl has the funniest sense of humor and the cutest kids. They stayed the night, but the next morning rushed home when Emma, Butler’s oldest girl, woke up with strep, just one of many adventures involving bacteria.
Wednesday we went to Crystal Cove State Park, a delightful tide pool and we played until sunset. Reef ate sand, but learned how to walk despite his many face plants. The boys found a transparent jellyfish that had washed up to shore and poked at it with a stick (it was already dead).
Thursday I went thrift store shopping and rummaged through what the locals donated. Thank you Citizens for Humanity, Juicy Couture and Seven for Mankind, your discovery made my trip that much more fulfilling.
Friday we went to Laguna Beach, full of heavenly tide pools with hermit crabs, starfish and a charming sea lion that popped up several times throughout our stay. The waves were a rush of energy. Payson and Chandler and I chased them until I couldn’t move my legs anymore.
Saturday we raced to Balboa Island for Whale Watching, literally (they held the boat for us). It was a thrill to find a pod of dolphins, racing and playing. A mother and baby dolphin swam by the boat while baby nursed. No whales, but more sea lions socializing on a buoy. Later, we played football on the beach and walked the board walk.
The last night we stayed at a hotel near the John Wayne airport. Two double beds, one holding three boys, the other holding Derek and I. Derek’s feet hung at least six inches off the bed, while Reef slept in a port-a-crib in the middle of it all. I have to joke, because despite the close proximity, it was the best night sleep of the whole trip.
Happy to be home, but dreaming of getting back to the beach with my boys and my beautiful man. I'll forever be thanking him for giving me it all.

All About My Family

2009-06-03T00:08:00.000-07:00

I am the mother of 4 children and have the belly with stretchmarks to prove it. I don't get enough sleep and should use moisturizer more often, but am too tired to apply it. Most days I eat handfuls of cereal, the crusts of bread from my kid’s sandwiches and have to fight for my turn on the computer. When I dress like a hippie I feel happy and carefree. I've tried to name my children names like Willow, Sunshine (when I thought I might have a girl)and Neptune. My favorite part of the day is swimming with my kids. I finally relax, water has that effect on me. If I some day have a 5th boy, I'd be thrilled. I am married to the kindest, most loving man who I find incredibly sexy. Kissing a man everyday with a beard is wonderful, the scratches from his whiskers linger on my lips long after he’s gone. I look up to him every chance I get (he's 6'5). He can still surprise me. I stay home full-time and make chocolate chip oatmeal cookies at least twice a week. I've had a huge impact on Derek's life. Because of me he only drinks soy milk (good bye dairy), is an accomplished cliff jumper and is the owner of a beautiful border collie (they don't get along). Derek's had a great influence on my life. Because of him I listen and recognize different bird calls, I buy smoked cheddar cheese and know who Carlos Santana is.

My oldest boy, Chandler (9) is amazing, tender, bright. He's my light. Let's just say at parent teacher conference both the teacher and I end of crying because of how wonderful Chandler is. Currently, he's writing a book about basketball, he loves playing with his baby brother, Reef, he just loves hanging out with his family. He is a home body and offers to help me with jobs and errands throughout the day.

Payson (7) is incredibly coordinated, the class leader and class clown all rolled into one. He has mastered every sport he's tried, and that's about all of them, especially basketball. He already flirts with girls and has such a sweet spot I call him "My peach." He makes me laugh (when he's not in trouble, that is) and the more I get to know him the more I know I'm the luckiest mom alive to have him.

Mayer (4) is a love, sensitive, cuddly and very social. He loves his friends, I actually have a play date for him most days. Swimming must happen everyday as well as hot showers afterward (he doesn't like to be cold). He can be sentimental about toys, chocolate milk and tries to keep up with his big brothers. He's a whiz on the computer and is my only child who will cry for his daddy when he get's hurt.

Reef is my baby, my inspiration for my book Colors of the Sea, my little monkey who is constantly climbing to get up me. If I'd let him, he'd sit on top of my head. He's a picky eater, my only child with food allergies and has been sick too much for me to be comfortable with. I continue to take him to the doctor, but mostly I've had to nurture him back to health holistically. He loves balls, dogs and bottles (currently, he's drinking almond milk, thanks to his lactose intolerance). The fourth baby is a breeze, considering I adjusted to the chaos of three. I've realized chaos plus chaos equals chaos, so I'm good.

Payson's Birthday

2009-05-21T10:31:00.000-07:00

He turned 7 and on his birthday we did different hair styles (Payson loves doing his hair).

Ten things that make me happy.

2009-05-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

Here is my top ten list of great things that happened this week (a little overboard, but it was a great week).

I had diner with my publicist, Doug and his wife Tawyna. Great people.
Doug Johnston is the president of Sublime Expressions (sublimeexpressions.com), a full service Public Relations and Motivational Speaking company located in Utah. Doug blogs daily at Dougjohnston.blogspot.com

Painted my front door red.

Taught Reef how to hold his breath underwater. He already loves swimming.

Went to an herbalist and had reflexology down on my feet. Who knew I was low on iodine?

Planning an end-of-school party with Chandler and Payson for boys only.

Found out my brother Tadd got a job after being laid-off for 4 months. He’s not moving!

Worked out at the gym and mowed the lawn, all in the same day.

Went to hear Paul Young speak about his book, The Shack. I cried the whole time. It was great rocking out to Christian music.

Brushed about a pound of fur of our lovely border collie, Sadie. Hopefully the shedding and pockets of dog hair deposited around the house will stop. Held her in my arms and told her how much I love her.

Watched Reef learn to walk. He’s talking 7 to 8 steps at a time. He says “dog” over and over again. It’s music to my ears.

Planned a trip to the beach, plus I’ll get to see my dear missionary companion, Butler.

Found out my trainer from my mission is adopting a baby. So happy for her.

It rained.

Went to lunch with Derek and Pita Jungle, loved the hummus and tazachi.

Picked peaches from my neighbors tree. Made a peach cobbler (thanks Joyce).

Took the kids to T.J. Maxx (need I say more).

Sleeping, or maybe not.

2009-04-30T22:52:00.000-07:00

Chandler's been coming into the office late at night, at least an hour after going to bed and says, "Mom, I can't sleep."
He's usually sweating, rosy cheeks, crazy curly hair and the most beautiful green eyes ever. It's the only time I see him without his glasses on.
We cuddle, he sits in my lap while I write, we talk, he convinces me to keep scratching his back so I have to type one-handed, but his skin is so soft (still baby skin).
We talk about things, like why I listen to music from the Hawaiian Islands when I write, how late I will stay up and where is his favorite basketball(he's so worried about it, those things can roll into the strangest places).
When we walked back down to his room, this is what we saw. No wonder he can't sleep. Three boys in a futon. I can't use the excuse anymore that we just moved. It's been 8 months. So, I moved Mayer over to his mattress on the floor (it's just temporary, like the futon) and Payson sat up and kissed the wall next to him, so tenderly I was jealous.
So, I gave Chandler a kiss goodnight and now, he's back on my lap, listening to Sweet Lei Mokihana by Hui Ohana. Her album Territorial Airwaves is really great. I have to thank my trainer from my mission, Mrs. Rachelle Lewman-Marshall, the lovely Somoian goddess that she is, for making me ever convinced I'm a brown-skinned Polyensian. Thanks a lot, Lewie.

Easter 2009

2009-04-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Sunday at Grandma and Grandpa Hinze's and Monday at Grandma and Grandpa Lofgreen's.

Diamondback Opening Season Game

2009-04-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

In 2005 Mayer was born on opening day of the Diamondbacks. The hospital was running a program with the Diamondbacks that any baby born that day would receive free tickets to every opening day game for life. Thanks for the game, Mayer and Happy Birthday.

Pinewood Derby

2009-04-11T00:51:00.000-07:00

And I quote "Mom, this was the best day of my life."
Chandler Lofgreen after building his pinewood derby.

Desperate to be an artist

2009-04-11T00:36:00.001-07:00

The sea! My blessing, my inspiration (my greatest inspirations are all asleep right now), my every source of creative expression and I realize anything and everything I’ve done artistically, academically or professional in the last twenty years has something to do with the sea. So. . . I’m trying to get my book published and brainstorm all the time about what I have to offer that is unique to this crazy competitive industry and I find my art work around the house and realize I should use it to promote my book. I can see it now:
Local artist and author oozing with talent. She’s able to write about and paint the sea. What a marketable combination.
Or even better:
National bestseller Laura Lofgreen donates millions of dollars to the Rachel Carson Homestead Foundation and The Ocean Conservancy from auctioned artwork, her own hand-painted interpretations of the sea.
I wish, but I do love to dream!
You can visit my website at www.lauralofgreen.com

Our Camping Boys

2009-04-11T00:30:00.000-07:00

Aren't they all grown up. Thank you to Daddy for taking them camping to Apache Lake. They look forward to it every year.

Scorpion Sting Blues

2009-04-11T00:13:00.000-07:00

The night was pitch black, a bit cold, and I tip-toed across the room to my side of the bed, hoping not to trip on a toy. Derek was fast falling asleep as I pulled the covers up over my body.

“Good night, honey,” he said and leaned over to kiss me.

I shifted my weight towards him and felt a prick in my leg, like I rolled over on a piece of dry grass. I didn’t think much of it, especially when considering the things my boys bring into my bed, but as I rolled back I felt it again. It was now a tingle, like my leg was falling asleep and I shifted it around again. Suddenly, I felt a pain in my arm and I jumped out of bed.

“Going to write,” Derek said with sleep running through his voice, but of course, the sarcasm was still there. He loves to remind me I can’t sleep unless I write for several hours before hand.

“I think I just got bit by something, like a scorpion.”

The bed was a firecracker of blankets and sheets as Derek exploded out of bed.

“Where is it,” he shouted with my hair brush suddenly in his hand, ready to pound it.

“I don’t’ know, but it got me five or six times,” and I rubbed my arms around my body. My own touch freaked me out and in less then a second I was in the buck, but not completely naked if you count the scorpion I was wearing on my arm.

I correct myself, as it momentarily was on my arm and then crawling out of my shirt as I threw it on the floor.

The weapon of choice that Derek courageously picked (a natural wood therapeutic brush, if you must know) was then used to smash that creature. In moments of Cheverly, my husband will use profanity and I thank you for that, honey.

So, the bastard was dead and I began the search of puncture wounds on my thigh and arm. How many would I find? Seven, eight? Does a person survive that many scorpion stings? And just as I started to feel helpless, I was over it. I do try to be dramatic, maybe even hold a grudge, but it’s just not part of my character. I’m usually too tired for this sort of baggage and I was actually grateful (talk about stretching the whole look-at-the-bright-side-of-things) that it got me instead of one of my babies, so we said a prayer and I calmed Derek down so we could go back to bed.

The next morning was a bit like a hangover (I hate to use this specific cliché’ especially since I’ve never actually had a hangover), I was numb, tingly, a little unsteady. When Payson came into my bed early that morning, a bit under the weather, we snuggled and then started on a series of pictures recounting the event. Please be sure to comment to Mr. Payson next time you see him for re-capturing the scorpion sting(s) in digital accuracy and yes, a scorpion was killed in the making of this documentary.

Don’t feel sorry for me. I’m a writer and I beg for things like this to happen so I can always use it in my next book.

Reef's Fine Day

2009-02-23T20:47:00.000-08:00

A day with Reef and another moment to reflect on how fast he's growing up. Reef is such a funny crawler. He drags a foot behind him, propts himself up and bounces up and down. In this photo shoot, he will be helping me, his mommy, with the dishes, eating chalk, eating a stick, a pine needle and finally, eating Sadie's leash! A new creative way to take the dog on a walk. He takes a moment to stop and watch an airplane fly by. You will see his attempt to create a lucky charm beauty mark with his dad and play bang on the couch with Mayer. I try to get a kiss through his day, but he's too fast for my lips. He hangs out with dad, once again, and proves its cool to have a bottle. Lastly, a much needed bath, hence, he had advocado for dinner. It's great for his hair, just where he put it!

Basketball and the Suns

2009-02-08T23:07:00.000-08:00

Derek is a huge Suns fan, so . . . with great pride, he's passing this passion down to our boys. But, I love the Suns too, a.k.a, my days when I loved Charles Barkely. Anyway, I digress, so he took the boys to the game on Chandler's Birthday. I love Reef with his poker face. Anyway, the next week as Tempe introduced the new light rail, Leandro Barbosa was there (he pulled up in his black Bently)and wouldn't you know it, we got a not so great picture, but good enought for us picture to put on our family blog. Great fun.

My New York Minute ( more like six days)

2009-02-08T18:07:00.000-08:00

I was leaving my husband and kids, both. . . at the same time. . . something I’d never done before, so I could either have a complete nervous breakdown or I could just deal with it. I reminded myself there was a time when I was single, adventurous, maybe even seeexxy, who knows, but my rose-colored glasses quickly turned a foggy gray when my five hour flight from Phoenix to New York turned into six. Due to bad weather, we had to circle the airport for an hour before landing. Did I mention I have a fear of flying and a close relationship with anxiety, so I wasn’t surprised when it (the anxiety) presented itself as a freezing pale-faced sweat. All of a sudden it hit me, if I’m not holding my baby then who’s holding me?
But the plane did land safely and my dear friend Chandra was waiting for me at the gate. The two hour subway ride from Brooklyn to Upper West Harlem (I have to clarify upper west, as it’s important to know this according to the New Yorker’s I met) was a crash course in urban living and there was that continuous reminder that if I got separated from Chandra I’d fall down a deep black hole, but my luggage rolled on until we arrived at her doorstep (I know, I’m the queen of run-on sentences, something I’m very proud of).
“We’re home,” Chandra said as she buzzed us into her building.
“Let me guess,” I said huffing and puffing, dragging my all-too-heavy carry-on luggage (why did I bring that extra blazer?) up to the top of the fifth flight of stairs. “You live on the top floor.”
And Chandra, as peppy and agreeable as ever nodded her head yes, but once inside the view to Central Park made it all worth it.
My first full day in New York was a whirlwind of cold wind, yellow zippy taxis and a million and one commuters—all in a blustering, blaring, bilingual rush. Chandra and I were on an adventure, locating an agent who briefly looked at my manuscript last fall. Her office was on 75th. Surely, she’d remember me. She’d want to see me in person, talk to me and she’d realize how nice I am. She’d want to sign me? My smile was most sincere and I was ready for my big break. I’d paid my dues, I have been trying to get published for eight years. But I never did get to meet the agent.
“She’s on a long-distance call,” her receptionist said in her black knee-length tailored dress and her fifty-styled framed glasses. The receptionist was nice, like the receptionist you see in the movies about writers trying to get their big break. Yes, she was that nice, but she was also a New Yorker and she knew her business.
My mom, a writer, once published with Simon Schuster, suggested I look up her old agent. I had googled him before ever leaving Phoenix, but these agent’s are so sneaky; it’s almost like they don’t want writers to find them. But with Chandra at my side, we researched more and found out he’s now an agent with Putnam Publishing on Hudson Ave.
The subway was my best friend that day, taking me to and fro, gently rocking me all the way. The bodyguard/receptionist at the Putnam office was just plain scary and nobody even got on the elevator without an appointment, but the vibes of that huge publishing house were intoxicating and just being in the lobby was enough for me. I promised myself someday I would have an appointment.
This was Thursday afternoon and the Society for Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators Conference didn’t start until Saturday morning. I weaned my baby for this, so I was going to have some fun.
From this point on it went to sight-seeing and Broadway plays: Rockefeller Center, Trump Tower, FAO Schwartz, Time Square, NBC Studios and Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, Opera at the Met and finally front row at Chicago. New York City spoiled me rotten.
The conference itself was a religious experience, like General Conference for writers. I heard from the apostles of publishing and writing, they spiritually enlightened me. Comments like:“You are the next generation of children writers” and
“You have an incredible responsibility, to share your story to young readers.” or
“How to publish your book in twelve years or less,”
We’ll, at least this author was realistic.
Of course, I had the thought, as I looked around at the 1,056 other people who were in the audience, what exactly am I doing here? Is this something I want to compete with?
And the answer shouldn’t have surprised me, but it did. I realized I do want to be a writer and I do want to fight the odds and even if I never get published, I want it so bad I will continue writing because more than anything, I love to write. I have to write. That understanding was the greatest gift I received from the conference. I now treat myself like a writer and that makes me happy.
Just when I thought New York couldn’t be any better to me, I lost my special barrette. I’d just made it back to Chandra’s place, by myself, on the subway with the rats and the scary stinky homeless guy, in 17 degrees, walking past Central Park and up five flights of stairs and I realized, my barrette was missing. This just wasn’t any barrette. Several years ago for Christmas Derek gave me a fancy crystal studded barrette he’d seen Drew Barrymore wearing in one of those gossip fashion magazines that I keep around the house. Such a waste of time, I know, but we do love them, don’t we ladies. Anyway, Derek had seen this cute barrette on Drew and wanted it for me, so he contacted the designer and for a meager $100.00, he ordered one for me. Christmas morning, 2005, I opened my small gift-wrapped box and there was the barrette and price tag starring back at me. Unable to get past the price, I told Derek I really didn’t need something this fancy and he shouldn’t spend that type of money on me. Derek is a “What ever you say, Dear,” type of man, so he’s reaction was a bit out of character.
He said, “Why won’t you let me express my love to you?”
Of course, I swallowed my pride and realized it was more important I let my hard working husband indulge in me than worry about grocery money.
So. . . my barrette, I lost my dear lesson-learned barrette. That night I turned around in Chandra’s tiny apartment in Upper West Harlem and although I was sad, I thought, “This barrette will be my gift to New York. I will give New York my barrette and hopefully some poor over-worked aging woman will find it and wear it and feel pretty again.” When I talked to Derek that night before falling asleep, I didn’t even tell him about the barrette. I was at peace with it.
The next morning as I rushed down the stairs with my briefcase (I hated carrying a briefcase, mermaids do not carry a briefcase) to catch the subway I stopped on the fourth floor, because low and behold, my barrette was teetering on the stair-rail banister, just so, like someone had seen it on the floor and realized it must belong to someone special and perhaps that person would walk the same path again. I picked up my barrette and started laughing, in a reverent praying sort of way, and I felt like God was looking out for me. I wrote a note of gratitude on bright yellow paper and left it teetering on the fourth-floor banister.
Yes, New York was good to me. At one point I missed my children, especially my baby, so much, I called my mom in tears. She coached me through some visual imagery, helping me feel more grounded, more in the moment and told me my kids were having a blast. Thank heavens for my mom. I was able to remain in the moment until. . .
Sunday evening, my fifth day in New York, I was at Whole Foods off Columbus Ave. eating my organic spinach and dumplings, wondering what they put in these dumplings; perhaps a mixture of ginger and cilantro, and everything came crashing down! I saw a mother nursing her baby. It wasn’t an American woman, discreet and all with her patented Hooter Hider (seriously, have you seen these, there just great for discreet nursing American moms). No! This was a European woman and she just lifted her sweater and whipped it out and positioned her baby. He latched on and she just drifted off, not really looking at anything in particular, maybe she was exhausted, but you know, when you nurse how you feel so content you don’t realize what’s going on around you because it’s just you and you’re baby and you feel more love than you know what to do with. Suddenly, I no longer wanted to be in New York, this place that was so far from home. I wanted my babies and they weren’t with me. They were most likely at the park in Mesa Arizona, playing kickball with Derek. And the baby, the baby was probably crawling around in the grass picking up who knows what and putting it in his mouth, his adorable drooling little mouth. I just love the sound and smell of his breath. I no longer had the desire to sight-see or watch a Broadway play or listen to the apostles of writing. I held on one day longer and by the next morning, I was on a two-hour subway ride back to the John F. Kennedy airport. I didn’t have any anxiety on my flight home. I was too grateful for the experiences New York had given me.
I’ve been home for a week and I realized I left my yell in New York. I am such a happier mother, a better person, I can see clearer; I know what I’m doing. I just hope it lasts longer than a New York minute. I think it will because New York is unforgettable.
I love my kids. I will not place writing as a higher priority than them, or sleep, or cooking or living, but I am writing, not because it’s a hobby, but because I am a writer and I love that.
Thanks for all your prayers and support. I feel so blessed.

Christmas Rhyming Newsletter (A Lofgreen Tradition)

2008-12-05T21:27:00.001-08:00

The Lofgreen Family will remember the year of 2008
As the year of running continuously late
Late for church and late for school
Being late (unfortunately) has become an unwanted rule
With four darling children ages 9 months, 3, 6 and 8
Let’s just say our comings & goings have become quite elaborate
We started the year with Laura 32 weeks pregnant on bed rest
Our unborn child tried to flee early from his prenatal nest
On March 3 Reef Carson Lofgreen joined our family of boys
He is a welcomed addition and has plenty of hand-me-down clothes and toys
It was an extensive search to find another Arizona town name
Reef is a ghost town in Cochise County; it’s a stretch but all the same
Mayer is 3 and recently removed his training wheels from his bike
To be like his big brothers, that is what he likes
Payson reads like a whiz and is doing great at school
He’s in first grade and makes sure his hair always looks cool
Chandler is in third grade, reads plenty and always has a friend
He plays with his brothers and helps Mom with errands
Laura is currently writing her 2nd young adult book
She’s hoping an agent or publisher will give it a look
Colors of the Sea is about Winona Ray, a marine biology student aspiring to save the sea
She falls for a cute boy and strives to over come her past memories
Derek is THE man, working hard and always saves the day
Laura loves his distinguished beard, although it’s turning gray
He counsels full-time, plays ball and occasionally works out
For the first time this year, his children have heard him shout
It takes lots of patience running this crew
And sometimes Daddy has to lay down the rule
We have a new dog named Sedona, she is a Border collie
We also moved into a new house, a foreclosure, so we saved lots of money
We traveled to the mountains of Flagstaff and later, the San Diego coast
But home is where the heart is and our comfy beds we love the most
Dear family, friends and loved ones we send you our best
Merry Christmas to you, peace, joy and plenty of rest zzzzzzz.

Family Pictures

2008-11-30T21:27:00.000-08:00

I had all my siblings, plus nieces and nephews in town this year for Thanksgiving. We worked around nap schedules and diaper changes to get these shots.

Black and White

2008-11-30T21:22:00.000-08:00

I followed the kids around today with a camera. I'm exhausted, but I got some great shots.

Home Sweet Home

2008-11-11T23:06:00.000-08:00

I took some pictures of the new house. I decided to conduct an interview and ask it a few questions. Here's how it went:

Laura: Hello, house. We are happy to live here. I hope you are happy to have us.

House: Well, I was vacant for two years. Let's just say I don't get lonely anymore.

Laura: What do you think are your best features?

House: I'm long, so I make a good runway for the kids. I have marble floors for easy cleaning and the living room windows let you look out at the cottonwood trees and the pool.

Laura: Yes, that is nice, actually my favorite thing about living here is the pool, although I think the runway is a necessary feature for all the boys and their scooters.

House: Despite my flair, I have a flat roof. It's uncommon, I know, but I've learned to live with it. Can I ask, why did you move here?

Laura: Well, you were a foreclosure so the price was right, plus you're bigger than our old home. By the way, do you think we could fit a couple more kids in these four bedrooms.

House: I don't see why not, as you usually have a dozen or so people here anyway; between playdates, your family that lives close by and let's not mention all the baby showers you've thrown lately.

Laura: I can't help it. You're so beautiful. It's like you're just begging for me to have a party.

House: It's true. Home is where you hang you're heart.

Laura: I enjoy the kitchen, with the big front window as well as the office. This home is just full of wonderful windows.

House: I can look out too and see your parent's dog, Rocky, walking up the street again. He's over everyday.

Laura: He loves you too, plus our new dog, Sedona and Rocky are buddies.

House: Never a dull moment.

Laura: You can say that again. Thank's for being a great house, Mr. House.

House: It's my pleasure. By the way, it's time to clean the bathrooms.

All About Chandler (written by Chandler Lofgreen)

2008-09-14T12:33:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Chandler Derek Lofgreen. I love my family. I have three pets Bisbee my dog, Rose my hamster and Parker my fish. I am 8 years old. My birthday is December, 20th, 1999. I have three brothers, Payson, Mayer and Reef. We are all named after Arizona cities except my Mom and my Dad Derek and Laura. I live in Mesa, Arizona. My room is the biggest room in the house; it was the living room before we moved. If I could have any animal in the world it would be a Tiger. I go to church every Sunday. I have curly blond hair, my eyes are hazel and my skin is peach. I love to collect hot wheel cars. When I grow up I want to be a Doctor. I am 4 feet 7 inches. When I grow up I want to be 6 feet 4 inches. My favorite thing to do at School is reading, my favorite book is Cam Jansen; she has a photographic memory just like me. My favorite thing to do is play with my Webkinz. My favorite thing to do in the summer is go swimming in my big pool. I wish my name was Landon. I live two houses down from my Grandma and Grandpa. My other Grandma and Grandpa live in Scottsdale. When I grow up I want to live in Chandler. My school is only four houses away. I go to Hale Elementary. My teacher’s name is Ms.Melvin. She is really nice. I love myself!

I finished my first novel.

2008-09-01T15:51:00.000-07:00

Here is a synopsis for a book I wrote called Colors of the Sea. I am currently seeking an agent.

For California State marine biology student and aspiring writer WINONA RAY, college is like breathing; she needs it to survive. While researching mysteries of the sea, her internal struggles surface and she faces unwanted memories from the past. More than ever, the ocean is the greatest source of peace she can find.
Since her dad’s death, Winona endures disturbing nightmares. Her dad’s arrogance and ominous temper lurk in the shadows of her mind, leaving Winona vulnerable. In her early teens, a menacing swim coach inappropriately fondles her. Nighttime flashbacks symbolize each abusive memory and to survive, she studies and writes. Unless it swims and has fins, she’s not interested.
DARREN MICHEALS doesn’t have fins, but he is definitely a swimmer. Raised near the beach in Australia, Darren is an ocean lover; but like Winona, he is damaged. Darren carries guilt from his brother’s recent death, making him skeptical to resume his award-winning nature photography talent. A photography major at the University of Sydney, Darren leaves everything behind, including two years of college credits, and transfers to California State as a marine biology freshman. He’s on the run from the memory of his brother.
Professor DR. BURNS volunteers sophomore Winona to student train Darren for the school year. Thrown together on the marine biology homecoming float as mermaid and King Triton, Winona and Darren reluctantly learn to lean on each other. As his teaching assistant and brightest student, Dr. Burns submits Winona’s research essay on Rachel Carson to an acclaimed writing publication.
While studying at Darren’s apartment, Winona finds a certificate awarding him first place in a prestigious photography contest. She asks to view the winning photograph and while looking at it, he breaks down. His photography partner and dead brother, DOUGLAS, is the reason Darren excelled in photography. They were best friends and other than Darren’s curly hair, they looked like twins.
At a random yard sale, Winona discovers a collection of first edition books written by her hero: famous scientist Rachel Carson. An inscription on the inside cover leads Winona back to the home. There, she meets LYNN BARROT, an elderly woman whom the world has forgotten. Graciously, Lynn invites Winona into her home. Winona recognizes timeless seashell sketches on the wall in the back of the den and puts two and two together: Lynn was Rachel Carson’s sketch artist.
A class sea excursion in the Monterey kelp forest could turn deadly. Seconds earlier Darren and Winona were watching a moray eel near an underwater cave. Winona remains underwater tangled in branches of twisted seaweed and Darren is on the hunt to find her. Finally, he sees her blonde hair drifting in the motion of the tide. His rescue demonstrates his true character. He is a protector.
Winona nearly lost her life, but more concerning is the fact that she loved having Darren’s arms around her. Winona trusts Darren, maybe even loves him, but through a letter he accidently leaves behind at her apartment, she concludes he has a secret girlfriend in Australia.
CLAIRE WATSON writes letters weekly to Darren covered with hearts; as a cardiologist, she’s obsessed with them. Claire’s relationship with Darren develops in the hospital where Douglas is treated for leukemia. As a friend, she stands by Darren’s side; fighting for Douglas’s recovery, but in the end, watching him die. Claire is a grandmother figure to Darren, not a girlfriend.
Winona avoids Darren, but finds it’s like keeping a dolphin from its pod. Darren insists she join him on a day trip to Coronado Island. At the beach, Winona identifies marine life in a tide pool and Darren recognizes her gift for personifying nature. Nearby, children playfully bury their dad in the sand and Winona is shaken by a memory of her dad’s death. Darren inquires about her mood change, but she remains silent; wondering how the starfish in her hand survives the pressure of the sea.
Darren and Winona volunteer at a local aquarium. Winona stands in front of a tank of luminous jellyfish; both are entertaining a room of children. Because of their assigned partnership, Darren keeps his unspoken attraction for Winona to himself. He never expected to fall in love with her. Later, Winona stares at an ocean exhibit and tells Darren she understands death; like his brother, her dad is dead too. Darren asks several questions, trying to get Winona to tell him more, but like the aquarium, she is closed.
Winona’s essay on Rachel Carson is published. She wants to share the news with Darren, but celebrates by reluctantly going on a blind date. Once again, Winona’s vulnerable past leaves her faltering in the arms of a sexual predator. Thankfully, she finally has someone to run to. She spends an innocent night in Darren’s arms and confesses the truth about her dad; his cause of death was suicide.
Lynn mentors Winona, sharing experiences about her field assingments with Rachel Carson. A late night visit enables Winona to stay overnight in Lynn’s mansion. Haunted by another nightmare, morning finds Winona stumbling into the arms of a handsome man. JEREMY BARROT is Lynn’s loyal grandson. He is kind and instantly attracted to the lovely Winona Ray.
While at a local bookstore with Darren, Winona runs into the owner: Jeremy Barrot. His interest in Winona is obvious, but Darren isn’t buying it. With the intention to get closer to Lynn, Winona agrees to go on a date with Jeremy. The reality of her choice causes Darren to spiral into a depression and he spends lonely nights feeling sorry for himself. In the mean time, Jeremy sweeps Winona off her feet.
A class whale watching trip out at sea finds Winona pale with motion sickness. Darren puts his emotions aside and catches her just as she faints. Relieved that Darren is speaking to her again, Winona relishes the time in his protective arms. Darren apologizes and recommits himself to Winona; even if he can only have her as a friend.
While working at Jeremy’s bookstore, Winona helps a customer with a purchase and makes a startling discovery. Her father has authored a book and on the cover, his face is staring back at her. Winona feels ill and Jeremy takes her home. She wants to be alone, but once Jeremy’s gone she calls Darren.
Winona is nominated to be part of a study-abroad program at the University of New South Wales; only upcoming junior’s need apply. She will do anything to bring Darren and his buried photography talent with her. Winona wants her writings to make a difference in protecting the oceans of the world. In her day, Rachel had Lynn as an illustrator—Winona wants Darren as her photographer. Like Winona, Dr. Burns agrees Darren’s past college credits should apply to his current curriculum. A board meeting is held and through a compelling argument, Winona convinces the head chair that Darren can test out of the course work. There’s little time to study, but Winona is convinced Darren can pass.
Like Rachel Carson, Winona is a writer first, than a scientist. Getting her degree is more than just an education, it’s living her dreams. Their upcoming junior year finds Winona and Darren in Australia exploring marine life and potential love near the Edge of the Reef.

Reef Loves His Toes

2008-09-01T15:47:00.001-07:00

Reef sucks on his toes and they are a great source of joy for him.

Loving Life

2008-09-01T15:34:00.001-07:00

Reef is getting bigger, almost 6 months old. He bring so much joy to his older brother's ( and of course, his mom and dad). He is a smiler and most times, you will find him with his tounge out. I took the boys to Legoland with Becky and Jann Wyler. We had a great time, I especially loved watching the boys play at the beach. Mayer looked at the pictures of us in California and said "Mom, I wanna go there."

I'm a big boy.

2008-07-29T13:15:00.000-07:00

Reef is joy, completely adorable and sweet. He fits in with the rest of his brothers. Since he has been born, I finished a novel, our family moved into a new home and the kids are out of school for the summer. Can someone say busy? Reef is very easy going, smiley and patient and I love being his mom.

Flagstaff and Sedona

2008-07-29T12:48:00.000-07:00

Of course, cliff jumping runs in my blood. The boys had lots of fun, but nothing compared to the tadpoles we found in Oak Creek Canyon! Grandma Hinze, Rachel and Anna joined us. Then we meet Grandma and Grandpa Lofgreen in Flagstaff and had a wonderful time there, playing at the park and watching the trains.

We've been busy

2008-07-29T12:20:00.000-07:00

We are so happy to welcome our new baby boy, Reef Carson Lofgreen (yes, Reef is an Arizona city, its a ghost town actually). We has been such a delight. Born March 3, he was 8 pounds, 21 inches. His older brothers love him to pieces. While pregnant, we went to Disneyland (remind me not to do that again) and spent time in Newport and Laguna. The water was wonderful,especially the tidepools. We found starfish, hermit crabs, sea urchins. After boogey boarding, we saw dolphins in the horizon. In the spring, we headed to Sabino Canyon in Tucson. There was a lovely creek with warm water and we had fun exploring, finding frogs and fish. We just got back from our annual trip to Flagstaff where we say the 4th of July parade. We also spent a couple of days in Sedona and had fun cliffjumping. Our most surprising news is that we moved, just two houses down the street. It is bigger and has a great pool. The yard is filled with pine and cottonwood trees. Don't worry, we still have plenty of citrus. Derek and I will be celebrating our 10th wedding annivesary in September. I also finished Colors of the Sea, the first book in three part series I have titled The Carson Trilogy. The novel follows young marine biology major, Winona Ray as she discovers her relationship with the ocean holds the key to healing herself. A startling treasure leads on a quest where haunting memories and unforeseen love collide.

I am enclosing a part of a talk I gave in church:

We have four wonderful children, Chandler, Payson, Mayer and Reef.
A funny fact about our family is our children are named after Arizona cities. Derek is an Arizona native and this trend has been quite special. Recently, a friend of mine offered to give us a dog that needed a home. We meet the dog and really liked it. Chandler and Payson got on the internet and googled Arizona cities. I guess we’re naming the dog Bisbee.
With four young boys, you can imagine some of the comments I get when I take them out. “My, you’ve got your hands full.” Or “Are those kids all yours?” When I was big and pregnant with Reef, I was out shoe shopping with my other children. A woman stopped my in the store and said, “Please tell me you’re having a girl and not another boy.”
These type of comments have never really bothered me, but they certainly haven’t been a source of inspiration.
On other occasions, I have been told more positive things. While on a trip, I had all the boys I matching shirts. They looked so cute. A woman came up to Derek and I, looking with much excitement at our children. “My, where did you get those beautiful boys,” she said. And a sales clerk noticed the boys in line with me. “My, God must have a special place in heaven for you.”
This type of interaction is a lot of fun and lives me motivated. I appreciate good things people have to say about my children.
Mothering and parenting in general is not easy, but it is certainly worth it, for we know children are an inheritance unto the Lord. Brigham Young said “Blessed is the man who has his quiver full of them.”

Prophets have many positive things about mothering. Not only are these comments inspiring, but they are what Heavenly Father wants mothers to hear.
In the April Ensign Conference issues, Daughters of God, M. Russels Ballard as said,
“There is no one perfect way to be a good mother. Each situation is unique. Each mother has different challenges, different skills and abilities, and certainly different children. The choice is different and unique for each mother and each family. Many are able to be “full-time moms,” at least during the most formative years of their children’s lives, and many others would like to be. Some may have to work part-or full-time; some may work at home; some may divide their lives into periods of home and family and work. What matters is that a mother loves her children deeply and, in keeping with the devotion she has for God and her husband, prioritizes them above all else.”
“Cuddle your soft bundle and tuck your little ones close to your heart, embrace your husband tenderly and rest assured there is no more real spiritual path than motherhood.”
Qahira Qalbi
Some mothers are very organized, with a house full of order. Others keep wonderful scrapbooks full of special photos for their children. Some volunteer in their child’s classroom, working with the teacher to insure a well-balanced classroom. What are your strengths? What traditions are you creating for your children?
I am a cookie mom, and we never have a shortage of them at our home. I love to take photographs of our children, especially on trips. I love to dance with my babies to the music of Celine Dion, wishing the moment will never end, but it most often does.
Author Anna Quindlen reminds us not to rush past the fleeting moments. She said: “The biggest mistake I made [as a parent] is the one that most of us make. … I did not live in the moment enough. This is particularly clear now that the moment is gone, captured only in photographs. There is one picture of [my three children] sitting in the grass on a quilt in the shadow of the swing set on a summer day, ages six, four, and one. And I wish I could remember what we ate, and what we talked about, and how they sounded, and how they looked when they slept that night. I wish I had not been in such a hurry to get on to the next thing: dinner, bath, book, bed. I wish I had treasured the doing a little more and the getting it done a little less” (Loud and Clear [2004], 10–11).

Mother Teresa said “The child is God’s gift to the family. Each child is created in the special image and likeness of God for greater things – to love and to be loved.

23 And he spake unto the multitude, and said unto them: Behold your little ones.
24 And as they looked to behold they cast their eyes towards heaven, and they saw the heavens open, and they saw angels descending out of heaven as it were in the midst of fire; and they came down and encircled those little ones about, and they were encircled about with fire; and the angels did minister unto them.

President Hinckley tells a story
of ancient Rome a group of women were, with vanity, showing their jewels one to another. Among them was Cornelia, the mother of two boys. One of the women said to her, “And where are your jewels?” to which Cornelia responded, pointing to her sons, “These are my jewels.”
How much more beautiful would be the world and the societies in which we live if every father and mother looked upon their children as the most precious of their assets, if they led them by the power of their example in kindness and love, and if in times of stress blessed them by the authority of the holy priesthood; and if they regarded their children as the jewels of their lives, as gifts from the God of heaven who is their Eternal Father, and brought them up with true affection in the wisdom and admonition of the Lord.

Prayer has played a crucial role in my mothering. Some days are harder then others. Personal prayer can make all the difference for me. In addition to family prayer, I may pray with one of my children if they get hurt or have a need. At our new home we have several large pines trees. While playing in the yard, my children found an injured bird. It had flown into a large window. Concerned, Chandler and Payson suggested we pray.
Matthew 10:29 - - Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.
30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

I know that Heavenly Father hears our children’s prayers. I know He hears the prayers of mothers and fathers. In the same chapter of Matthew we read:
39 He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.

As mothers, we give all we can, but are counseled to fill our own cup. Water cannot be drawn from an empty well, and if you are not setting aside a little time for what replenishes you, you will have less and less to give to others, even to your children.
Elder Ballard said, “I know something of a mother’s emotions that accompany her commitment to be at home with young children. There are moments of great joy and incredible fulfillment, but there are also moments of a sense of inadequacy, monotony, and frustration. Mothers may feel they receive little or no appreciation for the choice they have made.
He continues, “As a Church, we have enormous respect and gratitude to you mothers of young children. We want you to be happy and successful in your families and to have the validation and support you need and deserve.
I can honestly say I have felt that support. Actually, there is no other place in the world where I feel more support then among other LDS mothers whom are striving to live the commandments of God and teach them to their children. We are such a strong force for good, as we love and nuture our children. A mother who understands the truth of Psalm 82:6 which read Ye are Gods; and all of you are children of the Most High. Watching a loving mother interact with her child is something I wish I could capture and keep. Sometimes, when my patience is thin, I’ll draw on a memory or an experience where I have witnessed another mother being kind to her own child and I will be better than I could have been.

Life is Good.

2007-09-21T15:29:00.000-07:00

Chandler, Payson and Mayer are so good to each other. I love to see how they play together and the way they communicate. Mayer misses the older boys when they are at school. Yesterday I said to him "Do you want breakfast?" And he said "No. . . Payson, Chandler." Mayer rides his little tricycle up to the school when we go pick the boys up in the afternoon. Everybody loves to see Mayer, including the crossing guard, who usually has a comment to make about Mayer's wardrobe (he dresses himself these days and he is potty training - - use your imagination). I have had to drive up to the school a few times because I have been so sick with this pregnancy. It seems a little odd to drive 300 ft. to go get one's children, but it is what I had to do. Chandler and Payson are in tennis twice a week and Chandler also takes piano. With homework and the occasional playdate, we keep very busy. Yes, life is good.

The boys taking pictures with Daddy

2007-09-21T15:09:00.000-07:00

Look at these gorgeous pictures our little boys took! Derek took Chandler, Payson and Mayer out for family home evening (I was in bed, where I am most of the time,--16 months of creating a baby is exhausting) and he helped the boys develop their talents in photography. They came back home after touring our neighberhood and taking lots of photos. We downloaded them and I gave them a lesson in Photoshop. You get to see the results of there work. Someday they will be as good as there Daddy.

Ben's Visit

2007-08-20T09:41:00.001-07:00

We had so much fun when Ben came to visit this summer. Ben is my cousin, my dad's sister's son. Chandler, Payson and Mayer loved having a teenage older brother, although Payson got a little too comfortable trying to beat Ben up and wrestle him down. Ben was so patient and kind to the little boys. Derek and I felt very blessed to have him here. I took Ben thrift store shopping several times, out to eat and to Sun Splash and Big Surf. He also loved slushies at Water and Ice. Derek took him and the boys to a Diamondbacks game, bowling, hiking and to the movies. Ben also helped with mowing our massive lawn, although over whelming he never complained, although he did say he had never sweat so much in his life. The highlight of the trip was the great monsoon we had, with almost two inches of rain in two hours. Ben was jumping up and down with excitement. He had been waiting for one of these and he played like no kid has ever played before. We walked down to the park and had a boogie board to surf in the parks 3 foot lake that was about the size of two football fields. I did the back stroke across the park. The side walks were all flooded and it looked like our street was almost under water. Chandler said he loved playing water ballons with Ben. They filled up little ballons with water and then you can imagine the rest. Ben swam every day and is truly like one of my boys, he is a fish. We miss you Ben and love you very much.

Flagstaff July 2007

2007-07-16T15:05:00.000-07:00

Flagstaff was loads of fun and was great. We stayed out at the Country Club in a studio loft. It will be rememered as the vacation with no sleep. Mayer was up at least three times each night, upset and crying, looking for Mommy. Juice and lots of cuddles got us through it. On our way up we stopped in Sedona and did some more cliff jumping and Chandler found a water centipede. Derek jumped off the big 30 foot cliff, thus conquering his fears and forever being better for it, although I did not think he could get any better. Once in Flagstaff we found it unseasonally warm, so we swam every day, spent time playing some tennis, goofy golf, watched videos and ate popsicles. In other words, it was a lot like our time in Mesa. Derek's parents made it up for a couple of days and we loved the 4th of July parade.

Utah Summer 2007 - A special time.

2007-07-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

I took the boys to Utah to see my Grandpa Hinze, as he started hospice. Derek was not able to come as he had to work. We flew up to Salt Lake City on June 20 and drove up to Ogden as soon as we arrived. It was wonderful to see my Mom and Dad and Grandpa and Grandma. Chandler, Payson and Mayer were very sensitive to Grandpa's health and wanted him to know that they loved him very much. They had fun playing with cousins and aunts and uncles. Mom and Dad took us up to Utah State University and showed us where they met and fell in love. We had some Aggie ice cream and walked around campus. We also went to Lagoon with Grandma, Grandpa, Becky, Austin, Rachel, Anna and Ben. The kids loved the log ride. This was the same ride my Dad took me on over and over again when I was little. I took lots of pictures and Mayer got to the point where he knew how to smile when I said "Cheese." The highlight of the trip was seeing Val and Gary sing and play the guitar. It was so lovely and we all danced, loved and laughed. I stayed with my girlhood friend, Kristi Bone. She has 4 kids plus my 3 kids definetly made the home a party place. I also took the boys to Temple Square to see there Momma's mission. We have now been home almost a month, and my Grandpa passed away on July 10 with my Dad by his side. The last time I saw my Grandpa I spent about an hour with him while he slept. I layed by his side, but he never awoke. I prayed for him and just kept looking at him. After my time with him, I went out to the garden and picked some raspberries. I came inside and ate them with milk. The day my Grandpa died I sat down with Derek and cried and told him how much I loved Grandpa. I had some raspberries with milk and had the impression that Grandpa did know I was there that last time.

Chandra - A big sister and best friend to us all!

2007-06-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

Chandra is such a special part of our family. She is our best friend and all the boys just love her. I meet Chandra when she was 8. I was her nanny. She is now 23 and is starting her master's program this fall at NYU. We are beyond best friends and she is an angel in our home. She has come up with a phrase called "Paysonism's". These are cute things Payson says that make no sense but crack us all up. For example, today when Payson was getting ready for church, he combed his hair and said, "Mom, do I look like an airplane." Unless an airplane wears a white shirt and tie, he did not. This is the humor that dominates and when Chandra is around everything is funnier, happier and well, there are just a lot more things that remind us of chocolate chip cookies. A couple of months ago Payson asked me which was stronger, an ant or a crab. Chandra and I have had several serious conversations about this very topic. Know that a crab would have a very difficult time picking up an ant with its pinchers, yet surely an ant could not bring down a crab, unless he crawled inside a very small opening of the crab's exoskeleton and took a bite or two, anyway, you can see why this is such a diffuicult question. And this is the very humor and good spirit that carries most of our days. Chandra is very pure and her good nature and amazing optimism is a blessing to our lives. She reads with Chandler, sings with Mayer, plays Peter Pan with them all, while jumping on the trampoline while holding Mayer while they are all in their swimsuits because they have just finished up swimming while I make another batch of chocolate cookies while I have a smile on my face because we are so blessed to have Chandra.This page is dedicated to her.

Cliff Jumping in Sedona

2007-06-17T23:39:00.000-07:00

With perfect weather and some very daring little boys, we set off to our favorite Sedona cliffjumping spot, Grasshopper Point. Payson was amazing and wanted to immediately jump off the 35 foot cliff with his Momma. Mayer and Chandler had a good time off the more age appropriate cliff, at 15 feet. We went with Jann, Brennan, Chandra, Kera and Aurora. Derek had to stay home and work, but he said he will be jumping off an even higher cliff next time we go and if you believe that then I have some oceanfront property to sale you here in good ole Mesa. I taught this leisure activity to Becky, Matt, Sam, Rachel and Anna when they were younger and my mom did not really appreciate the jesture. I am most at home when I am in the water and I guess my free spirit loves free falling. We had such a wonderful time.