Fascinating

**A 69 year old woman gave birth to a healthy baby girl. This woman holds the record.

**In the year 2000, the average age of a woman giving birth for the first time was 25 years old.

**In Niger, Africa woman have an average of 7.5 children, the highest average in the world.

**In the United States a woman can expect 2.0 children in her lifetime.

**Utah tops the birth rate in U.S at 2.6 children.

**4 million women give birth in the U.S every year.

**Most popular day and month to give birth is a Tuesday in July.

**Jacob and Emily have been at the top of the most popular names for several years.

**The highest officially recorded number of children born to one mother is 69, to the first wife of Feodor Vassilyev (1707-1782) of Shuya, Russia. Between 1725 and 1765, in a total of 27 confinements, she gave birth to 16 pairs of twins, seven sets of triplets, and four sets of quadruplets. 67 of them survived infancy.

**LONDON - A woman with two wombs has given birth to triplets, in what is believed to the first case of its kind, a hospital official said Friday.
Hannah Kersey, 23, gave birth to three girls in September, said Richard Dottle, a spokesman for Southmead Hospital in Bristol where the babies were born. The children spent nine weeks in the hospital.
The girls — identical twins delivered from one womb and a single baby from the other — were delivered by Caesarean section seven weeks early, the British Broadcasting Corp. reported
**Bobby McCaughey gave birth to septuplets in November of 1997.

**The ratio of baby girls versus baby boys has stayed constant over the last 60 years.

**Multiple births has increased 400 percent over the last 20 years.

Which one of these newsworthy headlines

caused the Spurgeon kids to react like this:

(Actual pictures, not re-enacted.)

Elizabeth: "Are you serious?"

Kenley: No words, just smiles.

Dallin: Scared face followed by disbelief.

Dallin: "You're kidding, right?"

Britton: (thought bubble) ("I have no idea what you're talking about.")

Cameron: Just a big grin.

Actually, it was none of the above headlines, it was this one.

"Middle aged mother of 5 in Pasco announces that in early 2009 they will be expanding their home by two feet."

Proud

As many of you know, I was not born in the United States. I came to America in 1981 when I was 10 years old. It was a difficult change because I was extremely shy and self-conscious. At school I felt I stuck out like a sore thumb. Everyone was really kind and friendly, but wanted me to talk all of the time so they could hear my English accent. Within one year my accent was almost completely gone, and an American accent took it's place. I couldn't have been more thrilled.

Over the years we visited England often to see family and friends. I love England and think there are some beautiful, quaint places with so much history and in my mind England remained my HOME. I felt this way for years and years.

At the point when I had lived in The United States longer than I had lived in England, my feelings began to gradually change. Several years ago my dad became a United States citizen. I couldn't do it though. I liked the fact that my British Citizenship made me different and kept me attached to my homeland. Then something changed. I'm not sure the exact moment, but it was after the events of 9/11. I decided that I was indeed an American. I saw citizens doing amazing things, fighting for life and liberty. I felt proud of this country and I realized that America was now home. This was again confirmed to me on our most recent trip to England this year. I absolutely loved our time there, but I was anxious to come home.

During the Spring of 2003 I had my first interview with an immigration officer in Spokane. I had to take a test to demonstrate my knowledge of the United States system of government and history. I had taken American history in school many times, but needed a refresher. This test I was studying for I believed to be one of the most important ones I would ever take.

A few months later, in August of that same year my mom, dad, Brent and I traveled to the Courthouse in Spokane for my mom and I to be sworn in. We stood in a courtroom in front of a judge with our right arms raised and repeated The Oath of Citizenship where we promised to:

"Renounce all allegiance to any foreign Prince, potentate, State or sovereignty......

and to support and defend the constitution of the United States against enemies."

The judge reminded us that everyone living in the United States had, at some point, had ancestors who came to America. She told us that this was our time. It was a very emotional experience and now Independence Day has a whole new meaning for me.

As July 4th approaches, I consider the blessings of this country and the opportunities that I have had because my parents brought me here almost 27 years ago. We fly an American flag outside our home to remind us that we are blessed.

Giveaway

Want to be involved in a fantastic giveaway?

My little sister, Sarah (pronounced SAWAH by those who love her) received all the talent in the Barnes family.

Sorry other Barnes family members, but you have to agree she got all the stuff at the bottom of the pot, and the pot hadn't been shaken in a long time.

Click here:

Fantastic Giveaway

to enter.

What I Love

It's only fitting that my 100th post be about two of my favorite subjects:

Food and Family.

There's nothing better than a home cooked meal, prepared by someone else. Do you agree that food just tastes better when someone else prepares it? We don't go out very often, but it is nice to have a break and support our local eating establishments. I find myself wanting the things I know I love and I don't try new things. It's OK by me. Here's my list of the best eats in the Tri-Cities, according to ME.

Fiesta Salad from Fiesta Family Restaurant: The chicken and mushrooms on this salad are like a dream.

Spicy Chicken Caesar Salad from Casa Mia: Even though they charged our debit card twice the last time we went here, I'm going back for this scrumptious salad.

Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos from Anthony's: I'm in love. (The truth is this picture is of the Mahi Mahi fish tacos from Chico's, but after a taste test, I'm voting Anthony's the winner on taste, Chico's the winner on cost.)

Maui Zaui pizza from Roundtable: My absolute, hands down favorite pizza. We make it at home, but sometimes we splurge and go out.

Tropical Smoothie from Sonic: A delicious blend of pineapple, low fat ice-cream and banana, so refreshing.


Harvest Grain and Nut Pancakes from IHOP: Number one!


A completely naughty, can only have one every ten years, mouthwatering Western Bacon Cheeseburger from Carl's Jr: This seriously is the only fast food hamburger I like and my one a decade is coming up. (Can't you just feel your arteries clogging?)


And my good old trusty treat, a small chocolate dipped cone from McDonald's.

What's your favorite eat-out meal in your neck of the woods?

We've been lucky to have had a few delightful visitors this last week. This is my sister-in-law's parents who visited from California. Maria is a wonderful story teller and it was great to see them.

Jose and Maria

Below is Michael and Leslie, our "England Relatives" who are over for a few weeks. It's been fantastic to see them. They are off tomorrow to Yellowstone, Provo to see my sister Sarah and Las Vegas to do a scenic flight of The Grand Canyon. I can't wait to hear the fun stories.

I love food and I love family.

Put them both together and what do you have?

It's going to be a party.

(Sounds like a cheer!)

Third times a charm.

I'm notorious for washing items that are definitely not meant to spend 30 minutes whizzing around in a washing machine.

Not my actual washer, just a dream.

I've washed this:

Funny thing about this is that after 6 months of sitting on a shelf I picked it up and IT WORKED! I guess the lesson here is, never give up.

I've washed two of these.

No second life for these.

Crayons, pens, markers, candy, gum, money galore, you name it, it's been through my washer..
So, today I received my second replacement cell phone.

As I was checking out my new phone, Dallin said,

"OK, Mommy, now don't flush this one."

(It was the washing machine sweetie, not the toilet.)

Some of you are probably thinking, DUH!!, she really is the air head we always thought she was!! Others may have had similar experiences.

I promise to check my pants pocket

before throwing them in the washer.

Ever washed anything odd?


My niece Lauren is turning 17 on the 24th, we had a little family celebration this evening. This girl raked it in with the cash and gift cards. Happy shopping and Happy Birthday.

You think Elizabeth thinks Lauren is cool?

Here's another Summer Fun activity to add to my last post:

Sidewalk Chalk Self-Portraits.

Summer Fun

Dallin's feet first dive a few years ago-one of my favorite summer photos

We were paying for our purchases yesterday at the store and the very friendly sales clerk said,

"Bye, Have a FUN DAY."

I think I stopped for a minute and smiled. I was a little surprised she said that. You usually hear have a nice day or a great day, but a fun day?

On my way out of the store I thought to myself,

You bet we will (but I need some ideas.)

Ok. Here is what I know about fun during the summer. I know this is by no means everything. So, add your input, maybe you know some fun places that I don't, and I'd love to hear. If you're from out of town, what's your favorite summer activity?

*Free movies at Columbia Center 8. T-W-Th 10:00 a.m.

June 24, 25, 26- Doogal and Shrek The Third.

July 1, 2, 3- Jonah and Bee Movie.

July 8, 9, 10- Pirates Who Don't Do Anything: A veggie Tales and Ninja Turtles.

July 15, 16, 17- Nancy Drew

July 22, 23, 24- Charlotte's Web and Water Horse.

July 29, 30, 31- Wallace and Gromit and Surf's Up.

Aug 5, 6, 7- Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium and Alvin and the Chipmunks.

Aug 12, 13, 14-Everyone's Hero and Fantastic 4.

Aug 19, 20, 21-Arctic Tale and Firehouse Dog.

*Free movie at Fairchild Cinema in Pasco T-W-Th 10:00 a.m

I was just there this evening, but didn't write down the line-up. Anyone know?

*Free movie in Columbia Park. June 28th- Water Horse, July 5th-Bee Movie, July 12th-Shrek the Third, July 19th- Surf's Up, Aug. 2nd-Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium, Aug. 9th-Nim's Island.

*Circle Pool at Howard Amon Park. This park offers ample shade, just not near the pool. With the new and improved, "Spurgeon Cove." Since Nicole Z. said this once, that's what we call it.

*Children's museum at the Outlet Mall- you love it or you don't.

*Float down the Yakima River. We did this for a family reunion activity last summer and then again for Labor day. This is about a 2 hour leisurely float. You put in the water in W. Richland off of Van Geisen and take your boats or rafts out just behind those apartments on the bypass. (Let me know if you'd like more specifics)

*Fabulous State Parks are so close by: Sacajawea, Charbonneau, what else?

*Has anyone been to the nearby water parks in Moses Lake or Hermiston? I've heard they are great.

*The Water Squirters. There are three great water parks: By Trac in Pasco, by the Playground of Dreams in Kennewick and Behind the Kennewick Library. What I love about these is that no-one's going to drown.

There must be so many fun things to do during the summer.

Please share your ideas!!

Boys Days

Want to see the source of my anxiety for the last few months?

Imagine being responsible for 150 scouts each with one of these sharp tools.

Imagine my relief when it was over.

The cub scouts were very responsible and it really was a lot of fun.

We have some great boys in our Stake.

The boys also did archery,

which was probably the source of anxiety for someone else.

Meanwhile,

Cameron and his cousin Tim visited the airport with Grandpa Barnes to see and tour airplanes which were in town for the fiftieth anniversary of the city of Richland.

Cameron's favorite part?

The guns and the bombs on the airplanes.

Here they are in front of a P-51 Mustang.

Want a ride?

$2,100 and you get a half hour scenic flight of the Tri-Cities in this fighter jet.

Oh, come on. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Ok, so if it weren't so spendy, would you do it?

And the winner is.......

If I was ridiculously wealthy, I'd give each of you a prize.

I really appreciate your comments,

sweet words

and the fantastic people you are.

The one winner, chosen randomly, from among the best of the best...........

IS.....

I can't just say the name. So, play the video if you've got two minutes to spare.

Congratulations!!!

I could get used to giveaways, they're a lot of fun!

After reviewing this video, I am now, more than ever, convinced that we are out of our minds. The kids had a blast coming up with this creative announcement, and after all, that's the most important thing.

You want to see what made me smile today?

We did a little makeover on our coat hooks. We replaced these:

With these :)

They even got wet today, Yeh!!

95th Post Giveaway!!!!!!!!

I know it's a little different to have a

95th Post Giveaway,

but why not?

I wanted to follow up my previous post and raise the awareness that June is

National Home Safety month.

I wanted to choose a giveaway prize that followed this theme. After much thought and consideration, my practical side won and I've decided to give away this awesome

Red Cross First Aid kit.

Great for home, office, car, boat, R.V. etc....

Leave a comment by Monday evening at 7:00 p.m.,

and you'll be entered into the running. Winner will be selected randomly.

Everyone is welcome to enter.

GOOD LUCK!

Naps and Safety

The transition between two short naps and one longer

(much more mom friendly)

nap is tough.

Last week nap time didn't come early enough for this little boy.

Today, dreamland was much more appealing than applesauce.

(Note: Britton was successfully put to bed following the photo.)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Home Safety

June is National Home Safety month. Last Monday evening we did our Home Safety check and fire drill. Should we have to escape our home, our meeting place is our mailbox. As the kids were going about their activites, I rang the fire alarm. A predetermined item was placed where a fire might be so they knew they had to choose their escape route carefully, but quickly.

Note the lack of urgency in this photo.

You have no idea how much the kids wanted to try out our second story escape ladder. We know which window we will use and the order we will escape, but the ladder manufacturer suggests not opening the ladder until needed.

Do you have a Home Safety plan?

It's a serious subject, but we had fun practicing our family plan together.

Rain or Shine..........or a little wind!

Never mind the weather...

Rain or Shine the Livingston Elementary choir swim party at Memorial Pool happens. I hear that lightening is the only thing that cancels this yearly event. These pictures made Monday look like a lovely summer day. I sat on the side with towels wrapped around me: BRRRRRR!

Kenley and Morgan

Last night the girls performed at Sis. Montierth's Studio piano recital. The girls did an awesome job. Kenley played From a Distance and Elizabeth played Angel Eyes.

After the recital, a little dinner at R.R.

Elizabeth took this photo of me in my element. Ms. Pac-Man and I are friends.

Rain or Shine this annual event must go on. Here's Dallin hurdling the hurdles at Livingston Elementary Jelly Bean sports day.

An hour and a half standing in the rain running the garbage can toss will result in a mom who closely resembles a drowned rat: sorry, no picture available.

Two more days of school. We've got so many fun things planned for summer.

Time to turn on the sun...........!

How Many Spurgeons............?

How Many Spurgeon have graduated from Preschool? Cameron brings the total to 4.This little boy is Kindergarten ready and can't wait.

How many Spurgeons are excited about our shop that will be completed this week?


We all are, but I think one in particular that is looking forward to filling it with tools and such.

How many Spurgeons loaded and ready for the camping trip?

All 7.

How many Spurgeons enjoyed the pretty drive to Teancum Timbers?

Just 2, the rest were engrossed in a movie.

How many Spurgeons does it take to build a fire?

Everyone sure wanted part in this one.

How many Spurgeons took off with the hammer and the axe to blaze a trail?

One!! Why is it the sharp, dangerous things are so appealing?

How many Spurgeons enjoyed the fresh air and time together?

It's sure nice to get away together once in a while. I've realized we need to do this more.

How many of us enjoyed our hot dogs cooked over the fire with chili?

Why is it they taste so much better this way?

How many Spurgeons froze their tails off in the cold tent?

I think I saw every hour of the clock all night.

How many Spurgeons got a strange look from the nice lady that worked at Ray's Drive-in in Dayton when I asked her if they had "lite" dressing?
Just me! I suppose if everything is fried, "lite" dressing shouldn't be a big concern.

Hope you enjoyed your weekend!

We sure did.