LETTERS FROM STEVO: Consider this your Christmas Card!

In the festive spirit of this time of year we would like to wish everyone who laboriously reads this blog merry Christmas and happy holidays! May your flimsy New Year's resolutions sputter out and die a quick death! 2008 was a great year in the Busch family! It was a great year for you too in that you have been blessed exceedingly with the birth of "LETTERS FROM STEVO". Amy and I would now like to submit to you our "brag letter" because YOU need to know just how awesome WE are!

Peyton- Let's see, he turned 3 this year...and um...hmmm...destroyed a few things, had a few THOUSAND temper tantrums and FINALLY learned to read, write and sing opera (for those of you who have heard his screams!)...sheesh it's about time, we thought he'd never learn! He says and does the most adorable things. Recent memorable quotes have included such priceless gems as, "NO!" and "AHHHH!" (with a stomp of his foot)...he's so coordinated! He's also dabbling in body building and floral work.

Mya- Turned 5 this year and now knows everything, just ask her. She is currently studying, Chinese, Spanish and algebra in her kindergarten class. She is so smart...I'll bet her IQ is astronomical! For those of you who know Mya, her real passion is sports and athleticism! She loves running...she starred on her soccer team this fall...she earned the moniker, "The Anchor". She runs so fast, it doesn't look like she's even moving! And did we mention dancing? She participated in a strenuous interpetive dance competition. She has two trophies thus far! Way to go Mya!

Amy- Where to start on Amy...hmmm. She continued her readings. Books she completed this year included, "The Catcher and the Rye", The Magna Carta and "Wealth of Nations". Amy has had the opportunity to serve in church as enrichment coordinator this year and is thankful that so many women were enriched by her coordination. Other eventful activities this year included going to Las Vegas to scrapbook, celebrating her "dirty thirty" and charity work which involved rescuing wounded barbie dolls. Amy had a great year with IBM as well...she is seriously the BEST salesperson in the world!

Stevo- After almost 4 years at Avis Budget Group, Stevo was told he was so good it was time to "retire" and was handed a small check as a token of the company's appreciation. However, his personality and skills are in such high demand, he was recruited and paid a large sign on bonus to work for some company in Golden. Stevo has put aside his passion for football and taken an interest in the incredible sport of trampoline dodgeball...he's so light on his feet, teamates call him "twinkle toes" and "noodle" for his great flexibility. Stevo has also become leader of his Sunday afternoon Bible study group. Memorable events included watching the Vols become Gator bait and seeing Metallica with his "entourage".

We look forward to a great 2009! Future "LETTERS FROM STEVO" topics may or may not include, The Mormon Tabernacle Choir, bio-chemistry and the sweet sounds of sea shells by the sea shore...We'll see you evolved amoebas next year!

Christmas time is here! (Amy breaks the silence)

When it is FREEZING here in Colorado, (after an incredible Fall) it is impossible to deny that Winter and Christmas time are here! We came home from a great Thanksgiving in New Mexico, and it was already December, so I immediately felt behind. (Yes, I always feel like I am behind!) My Mom and Dad had their house decorated even before Thanksgiving - so the pressure was on from the kids. They just LOVE Christmas. What kid doesn't?! But they especially love decorating (and undecorating, and decorating again!)


So, we finally got the tree up, the lights on, the ornaments in place, the garland on the stairs, and the stockings hung. I finally gave up on Steffan doing any decorating - I even put lights on the outside of the house. (Steffan hates all the decorating, but it must be genetic. My sister-in-law says the same thing about her husband, and she even got on the roof pregnant last year to get her house decorated.) But the kids LOVE it, so I let them go to town decorating as much as they want. This year we even got a Nativity from my Grandma. Mya and Peyton adore it. Mya even spoke about it in her talk last week.

I also got a lot of things done around the house this last week. I love to clean out the old toys and clothes of the kids and give them away to families in need. So, I took several days to go through EVERYTHING in their rooms. I like to include the kids in the action, so they understand that they need to give to kids in need. So, Mya jumped in and helped me out. You can see a picture of the chaos:


We had an incredible weekend this last week - doing all sorts of great Christmas things! We planned to go to the Zoo lights, but it was way too crowded. So we had to give up on that one....for now! But Saturday we went to Jen's Nordstrom store to wish her a Happy Birthday! And for their Christmas Party for the kids. We had a great time, and the kids always love to see their Aunt Jen. Then Steffan and I took Mya to the Nutcracker Ballet. (Yes, Steffan went to the Ballet see the proof below.) It was incredible, and Mya had a great time! Now she has to listen to the Nutcracker music each night, and play with her Nutcracker dolls.


After the Nutcracker, we met up with the entire family to go to eat at the Spaghetti Factory downtown and then go see the Christmas lights at the Denver City and County Building. This is an old Family tradition, and although dinner was a little crazy with all the kids, the lights were amazing as always! It really does feel like Christmas - I just love it!

LETTERS FROM STEVO: Gobble! Gobble! & other Random Warblings

We had a great Thanksgiving. We spent the lovely holiday in the thriving metropolis of Farmington. Big Dave and I played in a turkey bowl...and yes, it was tackle(because that is how we do it!). We stayed in our chairs, kept our hands up, kept our heads on a swivel and insert all the other football cliches here. The trip was good other than the flight home. Peyton threw a massive temper tantrum because he didn't get to sit by his mama. I was burning with so much fury, you could've fried an egg on my head! In other words, I was so angry, I wanted to shove gun powder up my nose, light a match and REALLY blow it! GRRR!

This last week, we went on a date night with the Shafs and the Cory/Tiff combo to watch the much ballyhooed "Twilight". I had heard of these illustrious books written by some mormon gal, but have not read them and was only vaguely familiar with the story. Emily in particular is a dedicated fan. The story is an estrogen filled teeny bopper's dreamland; full of unrealistic human behavior. An average girl with little personality being stalked relentlessly by a "dashing" young man of equally little personality but great looks. My favorite part was the vampire taking the girl up to the sunlight to show her what he really was. I remember thinking, "excellent! He's gonna be this cool looking demonic monster thing!" Well, not quite. Instead, he's "sparkly". Are you kidding me??? Sparkly??? Say it with a lisp for added effect. I often wonder what I was doing watching that movie that night...

On an unrelated topic, Mya needs to learn how to treat her boyfriends. This past week, one of her boyfriends complimented the dress she was wearing and she shot back that it was not a dress, but a skirt! It's called grace and tact Mya...sheesh! Even I know that! Graceless lady! You know who I am. You know I can't let you...slide through my hand!

LETTERS FROM STEVO: Oh Canada!...A Salute to America's Hat!

I once heard someone refer to Canada as "America's Hat". I find that description fitting. So, if Canada is America's hat, then what does that make Texas? California? Just think about it...imagining that the east coast is facing forward. How's that for a geography lesson! I'm thinking about the Great White North because I just spent this past week in Ottawa for work. I had never ventured into Canada before, so I didn't know quite what to expect. I found their native dialect to be eerily similar to English, with an occasional "eh?" at the end of some of the more jovial expressions. They understand the stereotype and they honestly don't think they say it that much. I had to inform them that compared to the distant land that I'm from, NOBODY uses that expression, so from my perspective it is used quite frequently.

I learned how to barter with these people in their native currency. I figured out that if you pay for something in American coinage, they will give change in their worthless Canadian currency. What is the name of their currency anyway??? I'm officially naming it the "canuck". So, the exchange rate would be the canuck vs. the dollar. Works for me! And, in case you may be wondering, it was freakin' freezin' up there! Ottawa is just north of New York state and the Great Lakes. I hadn't experienced lake effect wind chill since my days in Ohio! They use this strange temperature measuring system called celsius. I think they use celsius because it makes it seem colder. 0 degrees celsius is freezing...that seems colder compared to 32 degrees fahrenheit! They take pride in their colder weather! From a culinary perspective, Canada, like Colorado, isn't really known for anything...there isn't a specialty food. They do have a chain of joints called, "Tim Hortons" that has some great chili. My coworkers made fun of me because I would constantly refer to it as "Tim Hoskins".

From a historical/cultural perspective, I found it to be a mix of European and American culture. They can't seem to decide which way they want to go, so their stuck in the middle. Depending on who you ask, some people prefer the European vibe, while others prefer the American vibe...just personal preference. While we Americans violently overthrew the yoke of our oppressors from that quaint little isle across the pond, Canada got down on their knees and asked politely to be somewhat independent of the throne...and this was quite sometime after we had already taken care of business! Different strokes for different folks, eh? A fellow American traveller informed me to pay attention to the news and current events in Canada. He told me that when I come back, they'll be talking about the exact same things...I'll have to watch for that, as I'm going to be venturing up there every so often.

In summary, my trip was surprisingly pleasant, the people were nice, the food was descent, and there were some fun observations to made, eh? They really need to get the queen off their coinage though...weak!

LETTERS FROM STEVO: Caught in a mosh? Not quite...

I've been listening to heavy metal since I was an early teen. I had been around it since I was very young, thanks to a couple of older cousins who would listen to the likes of Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Motley Crue and AC/DC. I never got into the hair bands...unlike one of my brothers who shall remain nameless, but you can probably guess which one it is because he's such a BIG softie! My first metal band was Metallica, who I consider to be the entry level band into the genre for pretty much everybody. You start listening to Metallica, next thing you know you're listening to other metal bands, it's the natural progression. Before long, I found myself listening to Pantera, Slayer, Danzig, etc. This music fits my style and was theraputic in my rebellious, turbulent, testosterone filled teen years. Big Dave and I never got to see Metallica (or anyone else for that matter)because we lived in a small market... Reason #565 why growing up in a small town sucks is that you never get to go to concerts! I was finally able to see Metallica for the first time about 10 years ago in Utah of all places! However, Big Dave had still not seen them...Ahh! That's something we'll have to remedy now won't we!

Well, this past Tuesday, Big Dave saw Metallica live! Add one more to the bucket list! We found out a few months ago that they were coming to Denver on election night, so we got our tickets. Once Ma Busch found out I was going, she exhorted me, "you better behave yourself!" What initially was going to be just Dave and I ended up becoming a posse of 7. We had myself, Big Dave, Craig "He-Who-Thought-He-Would-Get-A-Headache" Thornton, Brother Cory, Dusty, Dvecchio and ACK! We had a blast! Metallica is so old now, they attract a more "mature" crowd to their concerts..."mature" translates to "lame" in my vocab. It was a pretty tame crowd. We watched the first band "The Sword"...they're pretty good, I like them. The next band was "Down" one of my favorites. I made dvecchio go with me and see them last year. They are composed of guys from other bands who originated in New Orleans. The lead singer, Phil Anselmo was the lead singer of Pantera and I seriously idolized that guy in high school...I'm not kidding! I warned Paw-in-law he's pretty outspoken and there's no filter with what he says. He's a pretty entertaining front man and by the end of the show, I could hear Paw-in-law saying, "I like that Anselmo guy!" I found that amusing because earlier that day, he was asking me if he was going to get a headache at the show...as if I know the goings on in that man's head...nobody knows what's going on in that man's head! During the show, we noticed this middle aged fruity guy dancing as if he were at an Abba concert. My initial thought was, "How did Bud get here???" Once I realized it wasn't Bud, we could only surmise that he must have thought he was at a Madonna concert. Had he been in Farmington, he wouldn't have survived the evening...the fact that he was among a "mature" crowd probably saved his life! Finally, we got Metallica, they've definitely gotten older as they only played for 2 hours...they used to play a lot longer! Big Dave loved it! ACK! was so into it he was going nuts! Cory and I were headbanging and singing along as loud as we could! Paw-in-law had a great time and has been talking about it ever since! The only regret is that we should've purchased general admission and gone to the front...I was hesitant because I didn't want to subject poor ol' Paw-in-law to a mosh pit...but it turns out there wasn't any real moshing going on, again, "mature" crowd. It was no "Metallica 10 years ago" or Slayer for that matter, but it was still good and I had great company!

LETTERS FROM STEVO...Amy's Dirty Thirty!

Contrary to popular belief, that devastatingly good looking, young, thin, irresistable to women, hunk is yours truly. That is not Amy's ex-husband, nor did I eat that guy...literally anyway. That picture was taken 8 years ago when Amy graduated (in 3 years as she was bragging about in her recent post) from college. Amy studied international politics and spent her final semester in DC working as an intern for Democratic Congressman Tom Lantos. So, in celebration of Amy's "dirty thirty" birthday, I'll post my customary blog roast in dedication to my beloved wife. My focus will be our courtship.

I first met Amy in Provo at a house I was living in with 8-10 other guys. Amy and her roomates came by our house for a get together with others...upon introductions, Amy couldn't take her eyes off me! At that time, I was working full-time driving a forklift for a soup manufacturing company in Heber City, I hadn't started college yet, but was working on enrolling...I know what you're thinking..."A rough, forklift certified hunk from New Mexico? How could Amy have resisted??" Since I was this unpolished, roughneck dude who hadn't started college yet, Amy viewed me as someone to hook up with (if you know what I mean!) on a strictly non-commitment level. I viewed Amy as just another BYU gal fawning over me. We remained friends and dated other people...we even joked that we would get married but still see other people! I noticed Amy was a little on the "bossy" side and once commented to her that I felt sorry for the dude who married her!

During these times I often reflected upon what exactly I wanted in a spouse. I decided certain traits took precedence over others. There obviously had to be a physical attraction, but I also put a heavey focus on gals who possessed personality, spunk, wit, intelligence and humor. I had to be married to someone I felt I could BS with and debate things with. I can get bored with people after a while, so I had to be with someone that would keep me on my toes! After sifting through many females and formulating what I wanted, I began seeing that Amy was someone worth chasing. For her part, Amy also began to realize I wasn't the bumpkin scumbag she initially thought I was! As these opinions were begining to materialize, Amy decided to go to DC for a semester.

Once I had a dream that I proposed to Amy, it was over for me...I was hooked and knew who I wanted. I was living in a different house at this point that was nicknamed "The Zoo" because it housed 10 college guys, 2 Egyptians, 2 pit bulls and a python...I'm not kidding! Three of my roomates were talking about dating Amy when she got back to Provo, and I'm not talking about the 2 Egyptians and the python! I realized I needed to be more aggressive and use all the game I had! So I began emailing Amy quite a bit and needless to say, the flirtations got pretty deep! This was all happening during a fall semester and in December I lost Ol' Ern to a car accident and had to take a sabbatical to New Mexico for a couple of weeks. Of course, I stayed in touch with Amy and we both returned to Provo around the same time. We immediately started dating...my roomates didn't have a chance! The rest as they say is history!

The following is a list of why I like Amy:

- She pretty much lets me do whatever I want
- She appreciates my twisted humor and sarcasm
- She is my biggest critic and will call me out on my BS anytime.
- I can be extremely honest with her
- We get our issues out in the open. This can be fun to watch since neither of us will back down from a good fight!
- She is the black sheep of her family, yet her sisters have a high respect for her and look to her for advice.
- She thinks she's always right and I LOVE it when she's wrong!!!
- Ma Busch thinks she's a saint
- Bud thinks she hung the moon

Happy Birthday Dork!

Time.....the Enemy??

Time is seriously my enemy!! There is never enough of it. It slips by so quickly, and cannot be convinced to slow down. I am about to turn 30 on Halloween....I am not sure how I feel about it. I guess I am mostly irritated that it came so quickly! But I guess it serves me right, since I have always filled my life as full as it can get. For as long as I can remember, I have been "busy". In high school it was International Baccalaureate and every extra curricular activity possible. In college it was the goal to finish in 3 years that kept me going full pace. And now as a working mother, I try to do it all as well. Family, Friends, Work, Home, and Church. (Hopefully not all of you noticed that Fitness was missing!) I wonder how long I can keep this pace? Each of them mean a lot to me, so it is impossible to give any of them up! No matter how Steffan tries, I fail to learn from him the art of relaxation and letting myself get bored every once in a while. (I have learned to get an occassional massage or pedicure, but even then I am trying to squeeze them in, instead of enjoying them.) I think this is maybe why I love shopping and scrap booking so much...in my opinion, neither can be rushed. This could be why I never get enough shopping and scrap booking in! :)
So, as I turn 30 and everyone asks, "what do you want for your birthday", the only thing that comes to mind is MORE TIME! Unfortunately, that is impossible to buy! The key is to just enjoy what we have of it. I guess time is not the enemy, it is just so precious and priceless. Hopefully, by 40 I will learn how to treat time as my friend!

Additions from Mya

Conner is my friend too. I sit by him at calendar time.

Musings of Mya

I like Jake because he plays with me. We play Star Wars. I also like Bryson, because I see him at church. Today I saw him at Grandma's riding his bike. Carson was funny at Primary. He was copying the music teacher and not singing. It was so funny!

Yesterday, I got a goal at soccer. We accidentally won. I felt happy.

I won my trophy from dancing...great! Now that's it!

LETTERS FROM STEVO...Smells Like Politics

Political season is upon us! Everyone starts talking about the issues and how passionate they are about them! Dinner table discussions turn from the everyday minutiae of who went shopping where and what happened at church to ill informed theorizing and grandstanding on economic policy...we all know how to fix the economy! Everyone's opinion is correct and everyone else's is wrong! If you vote for Obama, you're children will die! If you vote for McCain, the polar ice caps will melt! The Congressional candidates either party with terrorists or big oil tycoons...take your pick. The putridity of political punditry on the 24 hour news channels are closely watched and regurgitated...ratings are through the roof. Most of the time, we are pretty apathetic towards politics until "political season" rolls around. That is why I propose we change the name of "Election Day" to "Anti-Voter Apathy Day." It's the one day we can show how much we "know" about politics and how much we "care" about politics. Now, this leads to some tough questions. Is one side right and the other wrong? Is it really a matter of good vs. evil? Do everyone's beliefs fit into one of two very neatly defined pegs? My response is an emphatic no, no and NO.

Don't get me wrong, I have my beliefs and opinions...I get anti-apathetic around this time as well. I used to be more forceful about my opinions, but as I've gotten older I've realized that the more I learn the less I "know". Presently, when political discussions come up, I usually stay quiet until I interject that I favor clubbing baby seals...I really don't favor clubbing baby seals, but it usually gets a reaction! I prefer talking politics in a civilized conversational tone now. I will divulge my beliefs and why I believe them and I will listen to your beliefs and why you believe them, but I will not argue. I used to argue with Ma Busch a lot, because we don't agree on anything, but since I've learned how to tone it down, we can actually discuss issues with civility. She can make points that make me think and vice versa. And of course insulting condescension is a sure sign of stupidity...something I've been guilty of a time or two. At this point, it appears to me that political ideology stems from various factors that include personality, values, socialization, etc. In other words, it can be a very personal matter. I'm not going to change Ma Busch's opinions and she's not going to change mine, but we can enjoy each other's company and respect each other's opinions and beliefs. So, as a parting shot I state this: To Whomever is reading this rambling post, I respect your opinions...especially if you favor clubbing baby seals! Vote for Stevo!

LETTERS FROM STEVO: Saucerful of Secrets...The Unauthorized Biography of Craig!

Today, we celebrate the birthday of Craig "He-Who-Loves-BYU-When-They're-Winning" Thornton. He is my dad-in-law and I know how old he is but I won't divulge the exact number...but I reckon it's pert near 60. So, in honor of his birthday I decided I would construct the unauthorized biography and divest some little known facts about the mysterious persona that makes up "Craig".

We'll start with hobbies. Craig's hobbies include, golf, basketball, church basketball, softball, watching golf, watching the grass grow on golf courses, mashing potatoes, giving his wife grief, giving his daughters grief, monster tag with the grandkids, smarting off to his eldest son-in-law and knitting sweaters. He also carries a passion for cute, fluffy bunnies and kittens.

What are his favorites songs you ask? See below.
- Showtunes- specifically tunes from "Mama Mia" and "Cats."
- Anything Celine Dion
- "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond
- "Beer Drinkers, Hell Raisers" by ZZ Top
- "Girlz Just Wanna Have Fun" by Cyndi Lauper
- Pretty much anything Pink Floyd-Specifically "Dark Side of the Moon." Auto-biographical perhaps?

Favorite Movies:
- Joe Vs. The Volcano
- Titanic
- Gremlins
- Pee-Wee's Big Adventure

In conclusion, many dudes from church comment about how intense he is while playing sports, i.e, basketball and softball. All I can say is that I have a method of calming him down when he gets uptight like that. I simply grab one of ear and pull on it...he settles down in no time! He's also ticklish. He's really one big softie, all bark, no bite. He's a good dad-in-law who I enjoy talking trash to since he's such an easy target. He also does a good job staying active for an old codger...As the old bluesmen say, "a rolling stone gathers no moss." Happy birthday, brother!

I had made up a story about his childhood that involved potato farming QA, spam, green jello with carrot strips and funeral potatoes, but Amy didn't like it...I've been censored!

Quickie with Stevo...Amy's been tagged!

Looks like Amy's been tagged by our sister-in-law Nicole! This is exciting...neither of us have ever been tagged before so Amy will respond to the tag and I,"Stevo" will add my two pesos...or maybe it's the other way around!

8 TV Shows I love to watch (I have to pick 8?)!
- Grey's Anatomy
- So You Think You Can Dance
- Dancing With the Stars/football players because Amy loves them
- The Office
- The local news (gag me)
- Copious amounts of football
- College Gameday
- The History Channel

Amy also enjoys Nick at Nite, The Sci-Fi channel, knitting documentaries and PBS.

8 favorite restaurants:
- The Outback
- Qdoba
- PF Changs
- Heaven Dragon
- Cafe Mexico
- Famous Dave's
- Woody's
- B-dubs

Amy also enjoys $1 burritos off the street, foodcourts and concession stands.

8 things that happened yesterday:
- Mya's dance class
- work (loansharking)
- real work
- Monday Night Football
- Dancing with the Stars
- enrichment
- random acts of violence
- went to lunch with Grandpa Lee

8 things I am looking forward to:
- Halloween
- Las Vegas (you know the saying...)
- Christmas shopping
- any kind of shopping
- quarter end
- the weekend
- the end of soccer season
- vacation with Stevo...

Amy is also looking forward to her upcoming readings which include but are not limited to: the book of Deuteronomy, War & Peace, Das Kapital and Uncle Wiggly.

8 things I love about Fall:

- Halloween
- football
- Halloween
- fall on the farm
- football
- spectacular, colorful, amazing, beautiful Colorado mountains
- football
- dressing the kids up for Halloween

Amy also loves getting fallen leaves stuck under her shoes, getting a cold and the kids getting colds.

8 things on my wish list:
- retirement
- a permanently clean house
- happy children...nothing a few tranquilizers can't fix
- happy husband...nothing a few anti-psychotics can't fix
- exceed quota
- vacation
- world peace
- the end of election season

Amy also wishes for thicker phone books, more shopportunities and to escape the Matrix...

LETTERS FROM STEVO: "Just some good ol' boys...never meanin' no harm...

...Seen all you ever saw, been in trouble with the law since the day they was born... Ahh yes! The theme song to the Dukes of Hazzard, my favorite show as a child. I had a Dukes big wheel and I remember this girl down the street having a Daisy Duke big wheel...I thought I was in love at 6 years old! I'm conjuring up the Dukes because they drove an old Dodge Charger. What's your point, you ask? My point is this...I needed to buy a new car and once again I saught your help in deciding what I should get. I gave 6 options: Gutless Kia Wimp-mobile, 87 Toyota Tercel, 08 Dodge Charger, 77 Ford Pinto, some kind of grocery go-getter, or a Volkswagon Bus. Needless to say, you people let me down again! Three votes in favor of the Kia, 1 vote in favor of the Pinto, 1 vote in favor of the bus and finally one GOOD vote for the Charger...Again, thanks for nothing. So, as usual, I didn't take your advice (execpt for the one GOOD vote) and bought a Charger. I love muscle cars! I view a car as something more than just a vessel used to transport one from point A to point B, but as a toy or an attitude! I'm trying to teach Peyton these same principles. We play with Hot Wheels and I taught him a saying...whenever I ask him, "Peyton, what do we like?" He responds, "chicks & cars!" Now we're talking!!!

Now, my father-in-law, Craig "He-Who-Gets-His-Bell-Rung-By-Water" Thornton thought I was bluffing last week when I wrote that if he didn't get an entry into our college pick 'em, I would create an entry for him...and he wouldn't like it! Of course, Craig apparently didn't believe me because he made no entry. Well, I'm a man of my word and I don't bluff! Last week, I created Bud's entry under the guise "Enlarged Prostate." This week, I created Craig's entry under the moniker, "Plays With Kittens." So, we have Enlarged Prostate and Plays With Kittens getting their collective butts kicked by me every week in pick 'em!

I finally started my new job today and it went well! I get a blackberry pearl to use for my phone. Now, I just have to figure out how to use this fancy thingamajigger contraption!

"Fightin' the system like two modern day Robin Hoods...Yeeehawww!"

Mother of the Year??? Not Quite...

So often I hear only the bad things my kids are up to. Not listening, fighting, ignoring authority, screaming, not sharing, whining...the list goes on. So, I was surprised to read an email from the Mother of one of Mya's classmates. It reads:

I have a daughter in Mya’s class. She has been having difficulties when I have been dropping her off. She doesn’t want me to leave and gets quite upset. I have to say your daughter is amazing! This morning she was so cute and took her hand and walked her into class and helped her out! I thought you would want to know how impressed I was. She was thoughtful, caring, and very sweet! Thank you for teaching your daughter all those qualities as it made my day much easier! Once again thank you so much, she was absolutely wonderful this morning!


I guess I am doing something right for once! :)

Is it Halloween yet?

It is known by all that Halloween is my favorite holiday. I wonder why?? :) I am so excited about Halloween this year. I am turning 30, so I guess I should dread it. I have the kids costumes purchased and ready to go. They came in the mail this week. I love the internet! The kids LOVE them and had to test them out today. I never knew how well a Bear and a Fairy could get along. They have been coming up with all sorts of games and activities. I might as well get full usage out of these adorable costumes. (Mya's costume was from Hannahstutus.com, I HIGHLY recommend them!) I can't believe we have over a month to go for this beloved holiday. Candy Corn here I come! A day where we can be anything we want!! Who doesn't love Halloween!

LETTERS FROM STEVO: And the Heisman goes to...Stevo???

So I went to Tennessee over the weekend and won the Heisman...Just kidding! As real as this picture looks, I'm not "actually" on the cover of SI, nor did I "actually" win the Heisman. But that is "actually" one of the Heisman trophies. How did I get to hold the Heisman you ask? I was able to accompany Bud and Big Dave to the Tennessee/Florida game on Saturday. Sports Illustrated was sponsoring a tent that had one of the trophies. We were able to take a picture with it if we simply filled out a survey that had to do with Nissan cars or something...you can tell I paid attention to the survey, I think I did see something about 10% interest rate with 12 year loan at $550/month as I signed the document. The atmosphere of the game was great, with great traditions and obnoxious fans from both teams. Upon arriving, we were immediately met by some Florida fans who enthusiastically welcomed us to Knoxville! The Gator fans seemed a lot more excited about the game than a lot of the Vols fans (we were aware of our impending doom!) We watched the band march down the street towards the field...as they played "Rocky Top" and the Tennessee Waltz I think I caught a tear in Bud's eye. Of course the game wasn't so great as the Vols got their butts handed to 'em.

Other than the blow out game we had a good time. We went boating, spoke copious amounts of B.S., Bud's pet feline, Mr. Pusse' chewed up the headphones to my ipod...I'm not 100% sure it was Mr. Pusse', it could've been Big Dave, you should see him when he gets hungry. I accompanied Bud and Char to a small country/bluegrass concert in downtown Dandridge. The opening act was simply a glorified karaoke singer. Bud and Char got up and danced in front of the stage. I saw that coming a mile away...Bud's a total dancing queen, not to mention a bit of a diva! As we left, the gay dude who organized the event was trying to get Char to dance with him. I think he was just using her to get to Bud! I entered Bud into my College Pick 'Em tournament under the username "Enlarged Prostate", then proceeded to kick his butt this weekend. Craig "He Who Takes Softball Way Too Seriously" Thornton had better sign up or I'll do it for him and he may not like his moniker either. I also had the opportunity to finally ride in Bud's Kia...the most gutless, wimpy 4 banger on the planet, not just any Kia, Bud's Kia. I decided that from now on anytime I refer to something as a "piece of sh*t", I'll just use the phrase, "piece of Kia". In all seriousness, it was a lot of fun and Bud and Char are fun and hospitable. Char is a great cook, I really enjoy eating the meals she prepares! I thank you...my belly thanks you!

Quickie With Stevo...Mission Accomplished

Before I begin I'd just like to acknowledge that my sister-in-law, Jen, is now officially been labelled a "Sidecar Sally" after her little motorcycle adventure this past weekend with Dustin. Congrats sister-in-law!

I had my 3rd interview with ACT this morning at 7am with the General Counsel/VP of HR for the company. The interview went well. A few hours later I was offered the position and I have gleefully accepted! I start on the 29th. Now I just need to find a car. The company checked my references and fortunately I wasn't thrown under the proverbial bus too much! I like using the proverbial word "proverbial"...makes me sound like I know what I'm talking about...and, it always adds legitimacy to the proverbial blog post.

Just try it

I only have one response to Steffan's blog entry....

For those who could not picture it, here is the visual:

And just so you know, when I asked Mya who Chris Farley reminded her of, she quickly said, "Dad, he can dance that way, I know he can".

- Chris Farley with Patrick Swayze - try out4 Chippendale @ Yahoo! Video

LETTERS FROM STEVO...Survey Says! Male Escorting? Chip & Dip Party Consultant?

Now that the recent poll has closed, I have the results and I am a little shocked...3votes in favor of males escorting, 3 votes in favor of chip & dip party consultant, 2votes for professor of useless information and 1 vote for bouncer. Not a single vote for HR? Do you guys really want me to become a males escort? I'm glad I'm not relying on YOU PEOPLE to steer me in the proper career path!!! So thanks for nothing. By the way, Amy voted in favor of me becoming a male escort! That just coincides with what Amy has always thought about me. She is always trying to "objectify" me...I'm not an "equal partner" but merely an "object"...and not a very pleasant one at that. Why must men be treated like objects? I'm weary of the constant objectification of the male species! So anyway, Amy ordered the book above on ebay...it should be here any day now.

The job search has been going surprisingly well. I had a second interview yesterday with a company called ACT Conferencing. They are based in Golden. It is a small company that promotes audio and visual conferencing resources, as well as quality customer service to any business that holds conference calls and online meetings. I would be doing HR. This is also the company I interviewed with last Friday. I felt I interviewed rather well (a skill I've developed a lot over the last 4 years). I was even thanked for an answer I gave to a question...I know, I'm a pretty good bullshi**er! I learned it from Amy and Bud. She asked if I could please stop talking to which I responded in the affirmative to which she responded, "thank you, now moving on..." Just kidding, it really didn't happen that way. I'm qualified for the job...I'm up against one other candidate so it will come down to who the better fit is.

In completely unrelated news...We had watched one of the Star Wars flicks and Mya decided that she would pretend that we were all characters from the movie. She is of course Princess Leia, Peyton is Luke Skywalker and I'm Darth Vader...hey, if the shoe fits...She decided that Amy is Yoda! That is hilarious!!! Amy says it is because she is so wise...sure Amy...just keep telling yourself that!

LETTERS FROM STEVO...It's the economy stupid!

So I returned to work on Tuesday after a nice Labor Day weekend hanging out with Ma Busch and Big Dave, when, that afternoon, our Area VP flew in unannounced and came to my office and closed the door. He noted my Tennessee Vols football helmet and I started cracking jokes about their debacle of a game from the previous night, but he wasn't laughing...I can usually make this guy laugh so I got a little worried at this point. We sat down and he proceeded to tell me that the company is restructuring it's territory and that there was no longer a need for my services because of where I am located. I was shocked but not surprised. Business has been down quite a bit this year and for the last few months I had kept this scenario in the back of my mind. The company I work for has never done lay offs ever! What does that tell you about the state of the economy! So, my last day is Sept. 12. I was offered a severance package that includes keeping a company car for a month, after which, we'll need to buy a car. I haven't owned a car in 4 years! Amy and I immediately went into damage control mode thinking of what things we can cut out of the budget. Fortunately, Amy has a great job so we aren't in any dire straits.

Now that the shock, sad, angry phases have already passed, I'm in acceptance mode and am already looking for work. In fact, I've already got an interview lined up for Friday! One nice thing about HR is that you can work in any industry! Do you honestly think I know how to rent a car? I feel bad for ops people who have been laid off, especially those who have been with the company for many years because car rental is all they know! So now I'm spending my last days updating my resume and looking for jobs. I've asked my boss to write me a letter of defamation...EERRRR...recommendation, to which she has graciously agreed. We'll see what pans out. Who knows, perhaps I get into another career path altogether! That is a lot harder to do...I can probably find something in HR a lot quicker. If it comes down to it, I'll do whatever it takes...even flipping burgers??? My philosophy is such that whether you are a housewife or househusband or a CEO (ok, maybe not a CEO, or a politician for that matter!) there is nobility in all work!

LETTERS FROM STEVO...Chip & Dip Benders and Broncos Cheerleaders!

Yes, that is Peyton beaming and blushing with the Broncos Cheerleaders. He also managed to give them a kiss on the cheek! I've got to hand it to him, the boy has got some game! We were able to attend a Broncos family day at Mile High stadium (that's right! I said Mile High, not Invesco!) The festivities included three of my favorite things: food, football and cheerlead...EERRR...family! There were lots of games and BBQ sponsored by Brother's BBQ. And best of all...it was free. If it's free it's for ME! The kids got lots of free gear and got to meet Miles the Broncos mascot. I wanted to get a picture with the cheerleaders but I figured that would increase their suspicion that I'm just some dirty old man. I imagined them reciting some sort of "code of conduct" that discussed a "zero tolerance" policy in regards to "sexual harassement of any kind" and "creating a hostile work environment" which would result in my immediate expulsion from the peremesis. So I basically refrained from even giving them eye contact. Such are the personal battles within me! I am not a dirty old man! Not yet anyway...wait 'til I'm about 50ish. Peyton, on the other hand, can pull off the, "look at me! I'm cute and innocent!" act until he's a pre-teen at least.

Now for my analysis on the "chip & dip" poll. Based on the sampling, which is completely statistically insignificant, I have come to the conclusion that a variety of people read this blog! Perceptive, I know... Those who may have answered that they did in fact throw chip & dip benders are acknowledging that they were perceived to be really cool in junior high. I'm sure many pre-pubescent, voice-cracking, physically awkward, orthodontia faced colleagues attended. For those who anwered that they did not because they weren't cool enough...well, they were probably right. And thinking back on junior high...that probably isn't a bad thing! I count myself in this category with pride! For those who wanted to, but their parents thought chip & dip benders to be of the devil...all I can say is, your parents probably sucked majorly. It is my humble prayer that you didn't turn out as lame as your folks! And finally, for those who threw this party of potato chip & dip deliciousness, but no one showed up except your grandparents...all I can say is, your grandparents were probably a lot cooler than you and showed up to your party out of pity. In summary, let me just state for the record that there was no right answer to this poll because it is impossible to be cool in junior high. There are two types of junior high kids, those who tried to be cool and those who knew it wasn't going to happen no matter how hard they, or anyone else for that matter, tried!

LETTERS FROM STEVO..."Ode to Stevo" written by Edgar Allan...BUD???

Let me just start by saying we will not be implementing a playlist on our blog per the response I got from you. I have nothing against those who do playlists, it's just not our thing. Now, I am posting a poem that was written as a roast about me. Some background...I found out last week while talking to my grandpa, Bud Underwood, that he has a knack for writing poetry. Who knew??? Ma Busch didn't even know! So, I requested that he write a poem that roasts me and I would put in my blog. Well, apparently my wish was his command because I got it in the mail today! So, without further notice...I present "Ode to Stevo" by Bud Underwood.

One day he came a struttin'

Out of old New Mexico

Down there where the pinion

And that wild cactus grow

He ambled up to Ohio

To try to save a soul or two

Where he learned to watch the Buckeyes

While filling up the Mormon pews

Well, he didn't become a yankee

So we really have no fear

'Cause his heart remained Dixie

With those Tennessee Volunteers

Now he didn't care for Abba

Singing of the Dancing Queen

Or any of those cowboys

Twanging up the music scene

So he looked around

And I guess he had to settle

'Cause he ended up a jamming

To the sounds of heavy metal

Then he met that pretty Amy

And that really changed his tune

'Cause she showed him pretty quickly

Who had really hung the moon

And so we wrote this little song

From brother, friend, or granny

To show how much fun it is

To roast his big ol' fanny!

Thanks Buddy! I owe ya!

First day of School!

Mya's First Day of Kindergarten....

Told by Mya:

"Once upon a time there was a girl named Mya. Mya went to Kindergarten for the first time. She had a great teacher, and two friends. Lauren and Ella. She had a great day, and her favorite thing to do was play and play. She also had lunch with her friends. And she learned to climb a pole. She loves Kindergarten."

Told by Mom:

I am not sure how time flew by so quickly, but here we are! Mya was so excited for Kindergarten, but of course a little nervous too. We walked to school from my Mom's house, although she wanted to ride her bike. We took a couple of pictures, although the sun was really bright and right in her eyes. She was so excited to see she had some friends in her class. And her teacher, Ms. Frankenfeld is amazing. She is so personable with the parents and so personal with the children. She is just perfect for Mya. She even asked Mya to bring her new favorite book to school tomorrow, since Mya just figured out how to read it. "The Foot Book" by Dr. Seuss. Yes, she really can read it. I am amazed! Yes, I am an annoyingly proud mom! So, we branched out to a new book, "I Wish for a Fish" tonight. She can do pretty well with it too. I am so proud of her, and hope we can somehow teach her to love to read. So far, so good!

So, after we met up with her class and teacher in front of the school, Ms. Frankenfeld told the kids to hug and kiss their parent's goodbye. Mya got this look of fright in her eyes, but said goodbye, found her nearest friend from Preschool, Ella, and grabbed her hand and walked into the school. They paused for one last wave goodbye. And yes, I did cry a couple of quick tears. It surprised me a little, since I have been taking her to some form of preschool/daycare since she was 2 months old, but this is a big step. I am so happy for her! And for a few months I was happy for me and my wallet! But then I added up the full day Kindergarten and the After school program, and I am not really saving a dime! Oh well! Kids will never get less expensive! ;)

Quickie with Stevo...blog playlist??

As I have examined other blogs I have noticed that many create playlists of songs that play while the blog is being viewed. This got me thinking...should we implement a playlist? If so, what songs should we choose? I'll of course consult with Amy since we are a...ahem...team. But I want others feedback as well. Please post a comment and let us know 1.) if we should post a playlist and 2.) what songs should we use? I want your feedback!!!

Rain, Rain Go Away.....

As everyone knows, by the name of this post the Sun is always shining in Colorado! We rarely go a day without glimpse of sunshine. And our Sunsets are simply amazing! We have over 300 days of sunshine every year, which I have come to rely on. I love it! I crave it! You think I would have an abundance of it right now. It is August, our hottest month. We are used to the stray afternoon thunderstorm, but what we are experiencing now.....UGH! We are in the middle of a freak rain storm! And we only have a high of 50 degrees! I never thought in my lifetime I would see people in sweatshirts and coats in August (but anything can happen in Colorado, right?). It started on Thursday, lasted all day Friday, and they are forecasting an entire day of rain today, and more rain tomorrow! 4 Solid days of rain?? in Denver?? in August?? Impossible, right? After the hottest July on record, with over 25 straight days of 90 degrees or hotter (many in the 100's), I was feeling very spoiled. I just love it that way. We went boating at the lake, swimming, to the park, or generally outside everyday. No need to wash the car, just sit back and enjoy the sunshine! It was just GREAT! I know not everyone appreciates this type of weather. The grass and plants were certainly suffering. My Grandma Shirley has been praying for a blizzard. And apparently her prayers go straight to heaven! We have a road closed today in the mountains due to 30 degree temps and over 6 inches of snow. I know we need the precipitation. But still, this is getting ridiculous! I was already feeling rather irritated with life this week, and this weather is pushing me over the edge. I need a good dose of sunshine! I will have to wait, there is none planned today and maybe none tomorrow. If it weren't for 2 crazy kids, I would still be in bed - sleeping or reading or watching a movie. I could never survive the Northwest! Although, I hear they are supposed to reach 100 degrees in Seattle today, something is wrong with this picture..."The Sun is shining in Seattle"?....no way!!??

LETTERS FROM STEVO...It's time for ACTION!!!

...And I am a man of action! And I call all who are reading this quaint little blog to action in the name of Amy! As many of you know, Amy is a very passionate person. And every once in a while a "hot button" issue will come along that gets Amy's dander up. This particular issue has been weighing on her mind recently so I decided I would take matters into my own hands and sound the trumpet! Now, one thing I decided as I began posting on this blog is that I wouldn't get into politics...well I'm diving head first into the shallow end of the pool and no one can stop me! You're probably wondering what the issue is right?

The issue at hand is traffic light ignorance. You see, Amy takes issue with any car that is stopped too pre-maturely at the light. Stopping pre-maturely at the light fails to trigger the light to change...allegedly. I have been told many times as we are driving that if I would just pull up a few inches the light would magically turn green! The conversation usually goes as follows (I've already pulled up to the light and we are waiting, some more patiently than others, for the light to turn green)..."You need to pull up closer to the light." My response, "I'm close enough." Amy's retort, "no you're not, you need to move up closer so the light will sense that we're here and will turn green." Through situations like this I have been educated as to the ways of the traffic light. I also hear about it when we are behind a car that is at the front and the light hasn't changed in 5 seconds. "They need to move up! They're not far enough up to the light!" Who knew this??? I sure didn't! And by the looks of it there are possibly millions of others who don't know this either! I know what you're thinking...something must done, but what?

My proposal is that we create a fund that can shed light on this topic and educate (or opiate) the masses! We'll call it the National Traffic Light Education Fund, or NTLEF! All donations payable to Stevo. Also, we need to write our Congressmen...state and federal! If you're a Democrat, make it a federal issue, if you're a Republican, make it a state issue. This issue transcends party lines and must be addressed immediately! We must act! Think of the children!

Quickie with Stevo...stump Stevo???

If you want a chance to stump me, you'll get a shot by going on to my football blog (http://stevosfootballmadness.blogspot.com) and learning how to sign up for "Stump the Stevo". It's just a friendly little game of college pick 'em and it's FREE to do! Do you have what it takes to beat me at college pick 'em??? Well...do ya punk???

LETTERS FROM STEVO...Praise ye bw-3! We know we are not worthy to partake of thy delicious wings!

I served my two years in Columbus, Ohio, the birthplace of Buffalo Wild Wings! Of course, 11-12 years ago it was a fledgling chain of outstanding and thoroughly delish wings called "Buffalo Wild Wings and Weck" or "bw-3". The restaurant was started by 2 truly inspired dudes who I believe were in the Cleveland area. Needless to say, I dined there numerous times during my tour of duty! Every Tuesday was 20 cent wing day which was perfect for my meager, middle class (no extra funds from the fam) budget. As the resident zone leader, it was also imperative that I drag my fellow colleagues to this place...It didn't take much dragging as they were just as a big of fans! I lived in an apartment with 3 other dudes and we created our own bw-3 shrine that we frequently prayed and sang praises to with zealous fervor. The prayer/praise typically went as such, "Praise ye bw-3 for we know that thou art the greatest and thou maketh the most delicious buffalo wings!" We, as well as the other 200+ dudes-in-ties even had our own nickname for the restaurant...b-dubs.

There are now b dubs all over the country including 3 in my general vicinity! Needless to say my little family and I eat there every so often. Amy does boneless and the kids typically eat mac-n-cheese. I'm a spicy garlic guy myself...though back in the day I could handle the "blazin" but my palate has been de-programmed from the hottest of spices ever since I left New Mexico. But at any rate, we went to a new one tonight to break it in. Amy orders her usual combo of spicy garlic and Asian zing. Peyton decides he needs to try the wings! He licks them, takes little bites and of course it burns him! He whines a little...then takes another bite/lick...whines again...then proceeds to go at it again! This vicious cycle goes on for a while as Peyton just keeps burning himself but is so stubborn he has to keep trying it again! Dude is nuts, but he won't stop! I think by the end of dinner, he had drank all four of our drinks! As we walked out, Amy asked him if the wings were hot, to which Peyton in his 3 year old voice replied, "they're not hot, they're spicy!" I have to give Peyton credit, I wouldn't have done that at that age or even much older! Dude has some serious huevos! Or, issues depending on how you look at it!

Quickie with Stevo...mixed tapes!

Congratulations to Emily for finally picking up her much anticipated new book, "Breaking Wind"... I made Amy a playlist on my ipod that she can listen to while she runs. It reminds me of the teenage years when people would make mixed tapes for the objects of their affections. It typically involved some hair band ballads, some Chris Isaak and maybe even a little R&B depending on how into diversity you were! I recall Big Dave making numerous tapes for his women...it worked for the first couple of days, then they were usually broken up after a week, two weeks tops. I never made mixed tapes for anyone...mainly because I was too much of a retard to attract anyone of the opposite sex. The playlist I made for Amy is definitely not of the Chris Isaak variety. She wanted something to get her fired up while she goes on her runs, so I included a variety of "fire it up" music that includes Metallica, Slayer and Rage Against the Machine. I slipped the Slayer song in just to see how she would react and she actually likes it!

LETTERS FROM STEVO...Congrats Big Dave! Happy Birthday Lisa! Supplemental Material...Humble Pie!

Hailey Brooke Busch was born to Big Dave and his wife Lyndley on Thursday in Farmington, NM. She was 7lbs. 12oz. and 21 inches long. I haven't been formally introduced yet, but she looks like a cutie to me! Mya may have some competition in the diva dept!

Also, I would like to take this opportunity to wish Mom-in-Law Lisa a happy birthday today! I'm not sure how old she is so we'll just call it 27. She was the first of Amy's family to give me a hug and has always been very generous to me and treated me with great respect. She has a tough job being married to Craig "He-Who-Must-Always-Find-The-Closest-Parking-Spot" Thornton, but she pulls it off with style and grace.

Finally, I had the opportunity to try some events from the Highland Games. The Highland Games are an old Scottish tradition that involve things like throwing rocks and hammers. It requires some skill and core strength...two things I don't have in abundance. Needless to say I didn't do so hot and being the hotly competitive guy that I am it was a little...embarassing. I figure with practice and core strength training I could get better. Afterall, my own brother, Big Dave took state in shot-put in high school...so I know it's the genes, right? The whole experience was a big piece of humble pie...mmmm...delish!

LETTERS FROM STEVO...Are you ready for some #$#@&! football???

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Fall! Football! I'm like a kid in a candy shop! Saturday College football! Sunday NFL football! Monday Night Football! Female College Cheerlead...EERRR...I mean school spirit...yeah that's what I meant...I know it's still a month away but I wanted to announce that I am creating a blog specifically dedicated to one of my passions in life and you can probably guess what that is by now...scrapbooking!!!! Just kidding...football. The blog will contain weekly thoughts on college and pro football as well as those friendly and not so friendly competitive events that occur throughout the football season...complete with the chance to "Stump the Stevo" every week...that shouldn't be too hard. If you love the game (or even like the game...or are maybe somewhat interested in the game) check out my blog at http://stevosfootballmadness.blogspot.com. Refer your friends and neighbors! After all, we are a missionary people...

Mya....5 going on 15

As promised, I want to blog a little about Mya in celebration of her 5th Birthday! I remember every detail of the day Mya came into the world. As Steffan mentioned last week, it was such an amazing experience and a moment that simply changes you forever. Words and phrases cannot describe how I feel being a Mother. It is just a feeling and an emotion that is all consuming. Mya came into this world kicking and screaming about being disrupted from her peaceful slumber. She was born via scheduled C-section, since she was breach with the cord around her neck. She had a perfect round head and a gorgeous smile, dimple included. From the start she was independent, intelligent, and just amazing! She continues to amaze us! Mya loves to learn and explore and ask questions (I have already gotten the questions about child birth and where babies come from). She loves to meet new people and is constantly introducing herself to people everywhere we go. She has a bossy streak, no surprise to those who know me. And she is extremely stubborn, no surprise to those who know Steffan. She loves to dance, sing, play with horses and other stuffed animals and figurines. She always wants to dress up, put on make up, and glam everything up. She loves shopping and shoes, no surprise to those who know her Aunt Jen (Mya is a Nordstrom's Manager in training). And loves to bake and be a homemaker, like my Mom (this may be a surprise to those who know me!). She takes piano lessons from my sister Emily and loves music, thanks to Steffan's obsession with it. Her favorite thing is to "rock it out!" or do freeze dance. She loves our big family, and all the cousins and Grandma's she has, although she wishes we lived closer to Gavin and Grandma "LaLa" (where she gets the Drama Queen in her!). Mya has always been a joy in our lives! She has her moments of craziness and drama, but I love that wild streak in her. It keeps our lives full of adventure. We just love her!!

Mya Elizabeth

1 Year Old

2 Years Old

3 Years Old

4 Years Old5 Years Old

Quickie with Stevo- Sweep the Leg!

Since we were on the subject of 80's teen movies, I wanted to share a music video that spoofs "The Karate Kid". The music video is by a band I've never heard of called No More Kings. The song is called "Sweep the Leg" and talks about the antagonist in the Karate Kid, Johnny who was played by William Zabka. Zabka directs and stars in this video...which shows us what "Johnny" is doing in the present day. Ralph Macchio is also in it, as is the Sensei that tells Johnny to "Sweep the Leg". It's pretty funny...the link is www.sweeptheleg.com. You can also catch it on Youtube.

LETTERS FROM STEVO...Revenge of the IBM Nerds!!!

So Amy has a presentation today at work. She has to present to her managers how exactly she is going to achieve her quota for this quarter. The two distinguished gentlemen above are who she is presenting to...just kidding! Apparently, one of her colleagues has prepared 22 PowerPoint slides for her respective presentation...boredom called...it wants its livelihood back! So Amy and I were discussing this topic this morning and I came up with an idea of what she should do.

I recalled the spirit of the 80's teen flicks. The structure of the movie always entailed the protagonist(s) being rather nerdy and unpopular. The conflict involves said protagonist trying to eradicate the unpopularity somehow...whether it be some hair brained gimmick or learning how to fight, etc. And of course ultimately the protagonist is attempting to win the heart of the popular varsity cheerleader who just so happens to be dating the jock/antagonist who is out to foil our heroes plans. The cheerleader always has sympathy for the nerd, while the jock always hates the nerd. Then eventually the nerd and the cheerleader fall in love and the world is transformed into a benevolent utopian society. In many of these movies there is a sequence where the nerd has to perform for someone or some group for some sort of approval...(think "Revenge of the Nerds", or "Bill & Ted") So with Amy being the "nerd" and management being the group that has to "approve", I decided that for her presentation, Amy needs bring in a boom box, dim the room lights so that flashy spotlights and disco balls can illuminate the room and "perform" her presentation. I'm thinking something along the lines of 80's/white suburban/nerd rapping, complete with colorful, hip 80's attire. She can't lose! They will love it! In fact, I'll bet they start dancing on the table! It's win/win all the way! Now of course, this whole scenerio begs the question...with Amy being the "nerd"...does that make me the varsity cheerleader? Rad! Dreams can come true!

LETTERS FROM STEVO: Diary of a Madman!

Mya's birthday went off without a hitch (thanks largely to Amy)...celebrating Mya's fifth birthday made me reflect a little about my blonde haired, blue eyed diva. I recall the day she came out via C section (and yes I watched the whole procedure...I'm a sick man!) and Mya was placed on the table to be examined like fungus in a petrie dish. She screamed and screamed and screamed! She was seriously ticked after discovering these new sensations of light and dry air, I felt a strange sense of foreshadowing of future events... As a newborn she would wake up every morning at 5am and I would lay her on my chest to fall back asleep. Not even a year old yet, she would pick up on my rather blunt and coarse language...I believe her interpretation of my word was, "sit!" She would laugh hysterically after saying it! And yeah...so I curse every once in awhile! What are you gonna do about it??? In a nutshell, her birth may have been the single most euphoric event of my stubborn and sarcastic life!

Not to change the subject or anything, but...Amy has a strange habit of placing random things/clothes/scrapbooking materials on the dryer and leaving them there. I believe she considers it storage space. It drives me nuts! It's clutter and it's in the way! What could possibly be so wonderful about leaving random objects on the dryer??? I have a theory. I believe the act gives Amy some sort of high or something...that's the only thing I can think of. Maybe it releases certain amounts of seratonin in the brain like a narcotic...and Amy's addicted! I've been tempted to try this myself, but I fear the high may be too much for me to bear and I'll develop an addiction! Then imagine how much crap gets piled on that dryer!!! I don't even want to think about it...must...stay...strong... Wait! Maybe Amy has something deeply ENSCONSED in the pile of rubbish? I just had to use the word ENSCONSED because it's one I recently learned from Nat Gibson and I had been desirous to utilize this new little treasure. I get like that with new words...I have to use them. For example, my boss once taught me the word MOTIF and I was fascinated by it. You have to remember, I was schooled in small desert town academics where learnedness is not prized.

Peyton has decided that it's funny to pat my stomach and say, "big belly!" and then laugh hysterically! What gives! About a month ago, an opponent in flag football called me a "fat #%@!" after I mauled him a little...again, what gives! Like I need to be reminded that I have a bit of a weight problem??? So I'm a bigger guy...there's just more of me to love! I could not only bench press the guy in flag football, he would be my warm up! I've already put up my uncle Bill and Dustin (guy dating Jen)...and I've got my sights set on Cory and Craig "He-Who-Sunbathes-in-His-Backyard" Thornton.

Alive....barely

Yes, finally a post from Amy.....no really, it is me Amy. I need to write a tribute to Mya on her 5th Birthday, but feel like I must write up a quick post on all the happenings in my life and the Busch household. I know I am the biggest slacker lately when it comes to my friends and postings. I am really sad about it. And very sorry I have been missing so much around me. I have learned to despise my computer and I cannot be on it enough for work, so I avoid it completely when I can. I enjoy my job, and it is going really well. But it is tough to "disconnect" from it. I could literally work all day and night and still have more to do. A sales person's dream come true - but not a Mothers!

We are having a great summer. I love summer, even though I can't fully enjoy it while working full time. Mya and Peyton have had to stick to their school schedules too, which is sad, but they do have some fun days during the summer where they have field trips and splash days. So that makes it more enjoyable. Plus my Mom makes sure to take them swimming, and to the lake, and out to lunch, and lets them stay in their PJs all day when they need to. What would I do without my Mom?!? They just adore her and love their days with her.

We really enjoyed the Fourth of July! We had a bike parade for the kids and then spent all day at the Lake. It was so enjoyable to just be with my family and soak in the sun and water. I do love this country and all the freedom and happiness it allows me. Mya learned to sing "My Country Tis of Thee" and was so excited that we also got to sing it at Church.

This is such a rambling post. SORRY! I am not sure what to write, I just know I need to....

Rachel will be proud to know I have kept up my running - and although I am not up to her level of Marathons and such, I am up to running a 5K. I run as often as I can (when I can get up!), and have really enjoyed getting up early and taking some time for my health and strength (mind and body). My kids also notice it, which is good. It is very difficult to teach my children a balanced life with all I have to do for work, but I am trying my best. If only I could get in more scrapbooking and reading! I do miss having a good book around. Recommendations anyone?
I have been working hard at my calling as the Enrichment Leader, hoping I am enriching someones life out there! :) I enjoy all the activities we have at least. We are doing the Fitness Club, Scrapbooking, Humanitary Projects, Temple trips, and have spend the summer doing Mother & Son night and soon we are doing Mother & Daughter. I am lucky to be working with my Mom on this calling, as she is the Enrichment counselor in the RS Presidency. Again, what would I do without my Mom!?!

In June we had a great visit with Steffan's Mom, Laura. She came to town for a week and got to sleep in our newly finished basement! It was so much fun to have her here. The kids just LOVE seeing her and spending time with her. And Steffan loves talking her ear off and arguing with her. It gives me a nice break from it! LOL! Mya also had her dance recital in June. She did such a great job, and really enjoyed dance this year - even with her 6 weeks off from surgery. She taught the dance to all her boy cousins, and showed it off to everyone. Isn't her costume adorable?
Well, enough of my ramblings. I could probably write all night. I will also do a birthday post on Mya. Can you believe she is 5?!?!

LETTERS FROM STEVO...beauty is only skin deep! It's what's inside that counts! Supplemental material: Tonka Trucks!

As you can tell by the picture above, Peyton has a thing for fish. I just hope that particular fish is female! We were at Clay's pond and Craig "He-Who-Wears-White-Moccasins" Thornton had just given me some pointers on how to properly cast a line. I had some rookie luck and caught a couple of bass. After catching one particular bass Peyton was instructed to give the fish a kiss and without any hesitation proceeded with an attempt to give Big Mouth Billy Bass a big wet lickery kiss right on the slimy ol' smoochers! Needless to say he was restrained! I guess there's no accounting for taste! Dependent upon his mood, Peyton can either be extremely obedient or extremely defiant/stubborn...there's not much middle ground. He also possesses an INTENSE love of animals. He once tried to hold a newborn chick and smushed it...fatally crippling it! Had PETA heard about this, they would've doused him in fake blood! Also, in case your wondering, Peyton's hair was hit by a tornado and hasn't been the same since.

In other news, I had the opportunity of a lifetime and took full advantage of it! DIA has it's own Employment office and they have set up a CDL training program for those desirous to obtain a CDL. The dude heading this thing up invited me and other DIA employers to a lunch to discuss the program further. I was the only employer who showed up! After lunch, he showed me the course that they use which entails a large paved lot and copious amounts of orange cones strategically placed to either confuse people or induce seizures (I'm not sure which). Someone then pulled up one of those large, yellow, City of Denver snow plow/dump trucks because they had an appointment scheduled for a wannabe CDL driver. This person apparently didn't want to be a CDL driver that bad because he/she didn't show up. So the guy says to me, "hey, you wanna try out the course?" I said, "yeah, let me get my rental car and we'll see what it can do!" He said, "You wanna try the dump truck?" I said, "hell yeah!" So we hopped in and I got to drive the course! Only a few cones were destroyed...human casualties were relatively minimal. After the course, I figured we were done, but then he said, "you wanna take it out on the road?" I said, "hell yeah!" So I got to drive it down the road a ways and test out the dump bucket and everything! I thought I'd died and gone to heaven! Upon arrival, a woman who works for the employment office that I know made the following observation, " you boys never give up your Tonka trucks, do you!" To which I responded, "no we sure don't!" That made my week! The dump truck in the upper left corner is what I drove.

Lastly, in case any are wondering, Amy is still alive (Neil Entwhistle I'm not). I continually encourage her to write something, but she claims to be "busy". She tells me that she's got to raise a husband and 2 kids and work or something... I don't know, it's confusing to me...clear as mud?