Reach for the Starr's

{KelSee EdYth StArR}

2011-08-20T22:00:00.000-07:00

{I Love To See the Temple}

2010-08-22T21:34:00.000-07:00

THIS IS THE PLACE!

2010-08-22T21:28:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at, This is the Place Park. We had never been there before, so this was a new experience for us. It was a lot of fun for Kelsee and Luke. And what made it even better was that we enjoyed this time with our cousins and Grandma.

SPRUCES with CATENZARO'S

2010-08-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

{CaRmeL}

2010-08-22T17:45:00.002-07:00

So to celebrate our final week-end of the summer, we decided to have a camp out in our backyard. This adventure included putting up the tent, roasting marshmallows and reading the story of King Benjamin in the Book of Mormon. After bringing out all of our bedding and getting settled in the tent, we realized that having Doc (our dog) back there might be a little tricky. We had to watch him carefully to make sure that he did not find something to play with that was not intended to be a toy for him. Other then a small hole in a sleeping bag, we fared pretty well.
We woke up early the next morning to get ready for a primary activity. While we were at the activity, Luke was hard at work in the backyard. He was attempting to replace some old cement. As he was working, Doc got into the tent and found Kelsee's little teddy bear Carmel. Before Luke had a chance to stop Doc, he had managed to rip Carmel's head off and tear him half apart. Carmel was headless and very, very dirty when Luke discovered him. Luke called me on the phone to tell me the bad news and to give me time to prepare for the conversation that I would need to have with Kelsee. I quickly informed him that he needed to have the conversation with her because he was witness to the event.
Carmel was Kelsee's forever friend. She received Carmel from Grandma and Grandpa Catenzaro when she was an infant. She has carried Carmel around her entire life. Picture after picture captured their love and adventures. Carmel was in Kelsee's backpack the first day of Kindergarten, he brought comfort during visits to the doctor, he has come on every vacation and even trips to the grocery store. Carmel was dearly loved!
After arriving home from the activity, Kelsee immediately started looking for Carmel. I tried to distract her hoping Luke would make it home soon from his errand, but she continued looking for her favorite stuffed animal friend. Finally, she asked me to join the search. I then realized that I was going to be the 'bearer' of bad news. As I started to tell her, tears filled her eyes. As the story continued, she buried her head in my chest and sobbed. I could not be strong any longer and I too began to weep. We talked about her sadness and finally about how important it was to forgive Doc. At the end of our conversation, Daddy came home and retrieved Carmel from the garbage. The sight of poor Carmel made it a reality and we realized that we would need to move on without him. Daddy promised a new stuffed animal and the day proceeded smoothly. I went off to work Saturday evening and arrived back home late Saturday night to a quiet house and sleeping children.
I awoke this morning to Kelsee saying, "Carmel is BACK!" She ran into my room and pounced on my bed holding Carmel in her hands. I was so surprised and encouraged her to go find Daddy! Luke was getting ready to leave to a farewell, and Kelsee ran downstairs and thanked her Daddy with lots of hugs and kisses. Then she ran back up to her room and told all her other stuffed animals that Carmel was back. I laid there in my bed thinking of my sweet husband staying up half the night cleaning and restitching Carmel and then quietly tucking him safely under his sleeping daughter's arm. Apparently hearing his daughter cry herself to sleep was too much for him to 'bear'. Who knew that it would be possible to wash, stuff and stitch up Carmel again? The thought never crossed my mind. Carmel was too torn and broken! I like to envision my sweet husband washing Carmel, stuffing him and then sewing him up ever so carefully. HE looked as good as new. I realized at that moment as I laid in bed that my daughter will never forget her Daddy for that amazing act of love. No matter where Kelsee goes, or what choices she makes she will always know that her Daddy loves her and will always be there to wipe away her tears and mend her broken heart.
As I have pondered this experience today, I have thought a lot about my Savior. I have ran through the events leading up to the Savior's death and resurrection. I have pondered on the suffering and sorrow that He experienced in His short ministry. And I have marveled at his love for me that He willingly provided a way for my torn and broken heart to be healed. Providing a way for ME to be whole again, no matter how broken I am. I will be eternally grateful for his selfless act, and for a husband who is always trying to be like Him.

My Two Lukes

2010-05-20T12:13:00.000-07:00

I am blessed to have two Luke's in my life. Both that bring me true joy, many smiles, and help me keep an eternal perspective. I know that Heavenly Father has blessed me to be near some of the most noble spirits. These are two of them. I never want to forget their kind words. Their willingness to serve with pure intent. I don't want to forget how their hugs make me feel safe and warm. Nor do I want to forget their ability to make a rainy day bright. They make me laugh when I am sad, and cry when I am happy. They have taught me so many life lessons that I could not have learned any other way. When we thought of names for both our children, I wanted to choose people whose example and lives would be a guide for our children to follow. As I watch Lil Luke follow in his Dad's footsteps, it makes me smile. I hope that someday he will know how blessed he is to have such an amazing dad. I know how blessed I am to have a husband that is my best friend. And grateful to have a son who makes me want to be the "Best Mom in the Universe." I am definatley their number one biggest fan. And will be for Eternity!

{Red Butte Gardens}

2010-05-20T11:02:00.000-07:00

Luke's Pre-school went on a fieldtrip to this amazing garden. It was his first experience of this sort. His first bus ride,and he loved it!

The morning was cool, but we did not let that get in the way. We enjoyed all the beautiful flowers and landscaping. It was an adventure trying to keep up with three high energy 5 year olds. There were times that I worried we might be going home minus one of them. There was an incident with one of Luke's friends who fell into a pond. Other then the minor hiccups, we had a great time and want to go again soon. I'm grateful that I get to be a Mom which affords me the opportunity to have such sweet experiences with my children.

{EASTER}

2010-05-02T21:23:00.000-07:00

My Baby Boy

2010-05-02T20:49:00.001-07:00

My baby boy is 5 years old if you can believe it. I still don't believe it! I try to convince myself that my children will stay little ones forever, but the size of their clothing indicates otherwise. At times I feel like weeping at the prospect of them "leaving the nest", but I am hopeful when I hold them that they will always be my babies. This year we had a Diego birthday party for Luke. He invited some of his friends and cousins and we had a great time. It was fun to celebrate his life and the joy he has brought into our home. Even though there are times now that I wonder where my sweet, obedient, cuddly child has gone, I am grateful to know that he is becoming the BIG boy that Heavenly Father intended him to be. I love being Luke's Mom! I count myself blessed that I get to watch him grow and progress. And even though my arms feel empty at times, I know this is all part of Heavenly Fathers plan.

TULIPS

2010-05-02T20:27:00.000-07:00

Every year as Spring approaches, I look forward to one thing. TULIPS! I don't have a green thumb, but the one thing I have always had success with is our Tulips. Since we are in a new house this year I have a larger flower bed and we had a plethora of Tulips. I love the colors, the texture, and that they come up so early and give a break from the dull grey winter months. It's a tradition in our family to take picture in front of our Tulips each spring. Kelsee and Luke love posing with the tulips because it is the only time that I let them get close to them. I am grateful for all of Heavenly Fathers creations that I enjoy!

It's All About LoVe!!!

2010-02-02T11:32:00.000-08:00

The other day one of my friends reminded me that Heavenly Father has given us the easy job. All He asks us to do is LoVe. He does not expect us to stand in judgement or preach, just LoVe. What a great reminder during this season. The scriptures are full of evidence of His love for us, and examples of how to follow. Let us remember it's all about LoVe! True LoVe!

The Starr 2010 Calendar

2010-01-02T16:25:00.000-08:00

I love creating our family calendar each year. Here is the finished project!

Let it Snow!!

2010-01-02T15:39:00.000-08:00

Our ChRiStmAs tReE

2010-01-02T13:14:00.000-08:00

Since Luke and I have been married, we have purchased one ornament for our Christmas Tree each year. So although we have been married for almost 10 years now, you can imagine our tree looking pretty empty. This year along with Kelsee and lil' Luke picking their one ornament, I bought some background fillers to give it some color. I thought it looked absolutly lovely! HaHa! Ok, so it was my best attempt yet. I think it was the first year the Linge family (Traci) would be kinda proud to call me friend. As a family we had a wonderful time decorating and preparing for Christmas. To place the beautiful nativity's on display makes the evening feel complete. Really what is Christmas with out the baby Jesus?! The lights, colors and sounds all reminders of that peaceful silent night when the Savior was born. I love Christmas.

The LiGhTs on Temple Square

2010-01-02T13:10:00.001-08:00

Yearly, our family bundles up and braves the weather to go and see the lights on Temple Square. It is one of my favorite parts of this holiday season. Breath taking is the only word I can use to describe this experience. I love being near the Temple and feeling the spirit of this Holy building.I know that because of the Savior and the Temple, our family will be together forever.

{Halloween Traditions}

2009-10-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

With the Halloween Season approaching, we took a moment to put together this fun Jib Jab. The characters are Eliza, Hunter and Ethan Jefferies and Kelsee and little Luke. We thought this only fitting because during this time of year our families have so many traditions together. Halloween Parties, pumpkin patches, and the Witches at Gardner Village to name a few. We will miss them this season, but they will be with us in our hearts. Meanwhile, we will think of them often!

2009-10-11T16:26:00.001-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

{Dr. JoNeS}

2009-09-19T17:28:00.000-07:00

SuMmEr FuN

2009-09-19T17:16:00.000-07:00

SumMer FuN

2009-09-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

This summer has been {CrAZy} to say the least! In the last 3 months my world really has changed dramatically. It all started when my dearest friend moved to Washington. Then I started a new job, packing up my life and moved my family in with Mom and Dad while waiting to finish our house,planned a Stake YW Camp, and then both my children start school. I have felt sad and lonely at times, but also joyful and peaceful. During all the craziness, we have had a lot of FuN this summer. We went to Lagoon, camped at the Spruces, played with friends and family and purchased a little puppy. We have had a great summer and I am sad that it is over. But as I look back over the passed few months I realize that there have been ups and downs, but we have welcomed them all (sometimes reluctantly) and done our best to rise to the occasion. I have said before that when we are mindful of the Lord, He is mindful of us. I know that to be true and know that His arms are always reaching out to help lift us amidst all the change. God is in Charge!

{DR. jONeS}

2009-09-01T11:43:00.000-07:00

We recently met the sweetest little puppy in the WorLd!! He is the cutest little black lab and blue heeler mix. We told Kelsee and Luke, that when we moved to a house we would think about getting a dog. It happened a lot quicker then I expected. A friend at work fosters little puppies for the Human Society. She had this little puppy that we all fell in LoVe with immediately. Because he was a boy, Luke got to pick the name. If you have had a conversation with little Luke recently, you will understand why we named him "Dr. Jones". Little Luke loves Indiana Jones and would "love to grow up to be him, and the prophet." Kelsee loves the dog and mothers him every chance she gets. But I think that Doc's biggest fan is Dad. Luke loves him and cleans up all his messes. He also loves running with him. As he gets older he will be a great workout partner. He is a kind dog and we feel very blessed to have such a great playmate and friend. Heavenly Father's creations are truly amazing!

How Do You Say Good-Bye????

2009-06-26T22:34:00.000-07:00

I have anticipated this move for along time. I remember the day that Traci told me that she was moving to Moses Lake, there were many tears and hugs exchanged. Time passed and it seemed so distant from the present that I just tried to pretend that it would not happen. The days passed and finally the time arrived to say good-bye. The Jefferies are gone! They will never be forgotten, but will be missed. I remember the first time we went to the pumpkin patch, our trips to the State Fair in the fall, all the fun times spent watching our little ones play and make huge messes, and the late night talks and laughs. I remember the green park, bug hunts, fairies and roses, the buzz game, visiting teaching, Puerto Rico, scrap booking, lazagna, swimming, birthday cakes, make-up, halloween parties, mission stories, scriptures, creating, christmas, talks about mothering, hugs and smiles, the list goes on and on. I will never be able to replace the Jefferies, (nor would I try) but the memories that we share will forever hold a place in my heart. There are no words to express the love I have for each one of them. Kelsee said it best, "It's hard to say good-bye to your best friend mom, and it's ok to cry." When I look at the stars I will think of Eliza and Kelsee. When I watch my son play with bugs, I will think of the boys. When I watch a talented performer, I will think of Will. And when I see kindness and love I will think of my Traci! Thank you Will, Traci, Eliza, Hunter and Ethen for being part of our family. There will not be a day that goes by that I will not think of you and miss you. I can only hope that I will see you all again soon and we will begin were we left off!

LAdY BuGs

2009-06-24T21:26:00.000-07:00

Like most BoYs, my son loves BuGs! Small or big, slimmy slugs, dirty worms and gross snails. At times it is hard for me to watch him play with them. But I know that it is one of the greatest parts of childhood. With that said, we are having a hard time getting rid of all the cottony aphids on the trees outside our front door. So we purchased some lady bugs to try a natural approach to the problem. After releasing these little bugs, we all sat and watched them climb the trees. While watching, Luke found a friend. After an hour of being outside watching these cute little creatures, I asked Luke to come inside with the rest of the family. He refused, saying that he needed to build a house for his friend before coming in. So he found a few twigs and built a tent and then fashioned a sleeping bag from a leaf. He had so much fun building a home for his friend and playing with him. Just a reminder of all the simple things in life that bring such joy when you are 4 years old.

LaSt DaY Of KinDeRgArTen

2009-06-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

The pictures say it all! Kelsee loved Kindergarten. Every thing about it, but especially her teacher!

We both will miss Mrs. Adams, but we look forward to the adventures that will come.

Thank you Mrs. Adams for such a great year

Downata Hot Springs

2009-05-31T20:51:00.000-07:00

The Starr family decided to go on an adventure this week-end. The destination? Downata Hot Springs in Idaho. We slept there over night and then swam all day. It brought back such great memories of my childhood growing up. With 7 children, Mom and Dad did not have a lot of money to travel. But they always made time to see the beauties of Utah. Sitting around a warm campfire and singing together are memories that are forever burned into my mind. Words can't describe how important those bonding times were sleeping snugly in a tent all 9 of us.
During this trip I took the opportunity to stop and see Heavenly Fathers creations. As I sat trying to entertain a small niece, I noticed a bunch of ants trying to build their home. Piece by piece they gathered the grains of sand and constructed the hill. I stopped and thought about all the beautiful creations that Heavenly Father has blessed us with. Even the simple small creations are miracles. I thought of the primary song,

"I feel my Savior's Love, in all the world around me.

His spirit warms my soul, in everything I see.

He knows I will follow Him.

Give all my life to Him.

I feel my Savior's love, the love He freely gives me."

We had so much fun together and gained a greater appreciation for the blessing of our Earth and our Savior who created it all.

It's Official Kelsee's a Genius

2009-05-26T11:28:00.000-07:00

We had Kelsee's kindergarten assesment today.

She did wonderful. I am impressed with the skills that she

has acquired this year, and the friendships that have bloomed.

Her kindergarten experience has been magical,

and for that I am truly grateful. I have tried to convince

her to stay in kindergarten, but she is excited to move on

to first grade. I know that change means progress, but it

is also very hard. I am so proud of her success!

And can't wait to see what 1st grade brings.

Creating

2009-05-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

I have always loved creating. I take every opportunity to make something fun to give away! Kelsee attended a birthday party the other day for a little girl in her class. So together we created a little fairy skirt for her gift. (the theme of the party was fairies.) The little girl loved the gift and we loved creating memories.

Recently, it was teacher appreciation week. We wanted to express gratitude to Kelsee's Kindergarten teacher for her kind ways. She has made kindergarten so magical. So as a class, we presented her with a basket with all her favorite things. This book I made, and presented it to her with the basket. I gave each child a letter to write words or phrases that represent Mrs. Adams.

This is how it turned out.

2009-04-15T22:15:00.000-07:00

Easter is a beautiful time of year. A time to reflect on the life of the Savior and the beauties of His earth. The Catenzaro Family take this opportunity to get together and have some fun. We had our traditional Easter egg hunt on Monday, which was a riot like always. It is during these times that I count my blessings. One dear husband that is my eternal companion. Two children (Kelsee and Little Luke) who are my greatest joys. My incredible parents who have lived such valiant lives and are such great examples. Six faithful siblings that are my best friends. Their supportive spouses that fit right in. Twenty-seven nieces and nephews that are unique and special. And most of all my testimony of the Plan of Salvation that allows us to all be together forever. Who could ask for more.

My Eternal Companion

2009-04-14T18:46:00.000-07:00

We returned home this week-end from Idaho Falls. We left Salt Lake City, on Friday to see a great friend sealed in the Temple. The event was magical for many reasons. Not only because of our friend's union, but also because it caused me to reflect on my marriage to Luke. I don't remember all the details of that day,but I recall the feelings of complete happiness. I feel so blessed to be his wife and friend. I know that my Heavenly Father loves me, because he gave me the gift of my husband. I don't have adequate words to describe my love for him. He has been blessed with so many qualities that enrich my life, and the life of our children. I would marry him again and again. Thanks for your love Luke! I love you!

The Lego Man

2009-04-06T22:11:00.000-07:00

Little Luke got Legos and Knex for his birthday.
I am not sure who likes the toys more Little Luke or Big Luke!
I have always known that Luke was a kid at heart, but this proves it!

You Only Turn 4 Once

2009-04-06T20:52:00.000-07:00

Luke is 4 years old, and so excited for what this upcoming year of life will bring! He had a wonderful birthday full of many memories. As we were hanging out with our dearest friends, just having a relaxing evening. Little Luke said a blessing on the food that was so sweet. He prayed that Heavenly Father would "bless his cake to be decorateded well." Funny thing was that we had already eaten his birthday cake. We had no plan to make a cake! The prayer pulled at Traci's heartstrings, so of course we made a cake. So here it is. We were a little rushed {the cake was still warm}but the children had a great time creating it.

The big 4 year old boy!

Sissy helping with the pirate ship/train cake!

Luke's best friend in the world Hunter!

Here is the finished product!

Only a child could find this creation worthy of love.

They all had so much fun.

Take Two

2009-03-03T21:48:00.000-08:00

Last year I tried to start a blog and made one entry and never returned, even though some of my dearest friends and family are professional bloggers. So I am going to reach for the moon and try this blog thing again. Hopefully I will fall among the Starrs!