Keeping up With The Jones'

{February 6, 2012}

2012-02-06T20:01:00.000-08:00

"There is no one perfect way to be a good mother... Each mother has different challenges, different skills and abilities, and certainly different children... Some may have to work part-or full-time; some may work at home; some may divide their lives into periods of home and family and work. What matters is that a mother loves her children deeply and, in keeping with the devotion she has for God..., prioritizes them above all else."

Elder M. Russell Ballard

{Sundance}

2012-02-02T14:41:00.001-08:00

Montage "Words" After Party

Operation Mearriage: Meet the man of my dreams.....Oh wait, your name is Bradley Cooper?!?! Sounds familiar.

{2012}

2012-01-19T09:58:00.001-08:00

{Christmas 2011}

2011-12-27T12:24:00.001-08:00

We spent Christmas with family in Idaho Falls this year. Another amazing Holiday with family!

The kids enjoyed sledding with grandpa while my mom and I did some last minute Christmas shopping

Candy Cane Lane

The music house

Went to Great Grandma Serr's for a Christmas eve party

Opened pjs on Christmas Eve

Christmas Breakfast, prime rib dinner ..... food is a neccessity

Holden asked Santa for a watch, "hawkie talkies", and remote control car

Addy asked Santa for a America girl doll, matching pjs with her doll and makeup

Christmas Pjs

Favorite presents

I am thankful for this Holiday Season and the reminder of our Savior's birth. This time of year always helps me reallign my priorities and makes me thankful for the loved ones in my life. I've been blessed with wonderful family and friends and am greatful for all of the memories I have made with them this year!

{Elf on a Shelf}

2011-11-29T11:45:00.000-08:00

Buckey is back.

{Thankful}

2011-11-27T21:31:00.000-08:00

Addy: mom and dad, money, Thanksgiving, grandma and grandpa Bud, Santa Claus, bathrooms
Holden: Jacob and Ryder and Carson, Jesus, eyes
Mom: Atonement and our Savior, my children, family, positive and inspiring friendships, running and dance

It is not HAPPY people that are thankful,

it is THANKFUL people that are happy.

{October 31, 2011}

2011-11-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

{Homemade Icecream}

2011-10-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

Homemade Icecream: I don't remember it ever tasting so amazing, this icecream has sadly made me a dessert snob. We make it at least once a week and it still makes us this happy.

{October 1, 2011}

2011-10-03T09:49:00.000-07:00

Perfect weekend to start out October

General Conference: Had a picnic breakfast on the Living Room floor while we watched the morning sessions.

Pumpkin Patch: Addy and Holden each got to pick out a pumpkin; I normally pick out the ugliest one because I feel bad for it, this year they all looked too good.

Movie Night

Family run/bike rides: The kids basically ride their bikes as fast as they can and watch me struggle to keep up.

Witches Night Out at Gardener Village

{September 14, 2011}

2011-09-20T14:12:00.001-07:00

I can't believe this little guy is 4!

Happy birthday brother, bubba, turkey, baby bear, champ! We sure do love you and life would just not be as great as it is without you!

{September 12, 2011}

2011-09-12T10:58:00.001-07:00

Life is to be enjoyed, not endured

~Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley

{Finishing the Bucket List}

2011-09-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

We went to see grandma and grandpa in Idaho so they could help us finish our Summer Bucket List. This two day trip was packed with items to check off. Thanks mom and day for helping us finish our list.....maybe we will create one for Fall :)

Lady Bug Jars

Hammock Naps

Jumping on the trampoline

Sand Dunes

Play with sidewalk chalk

Pizza picnic in the park

{Jason and Dawn Sargent}

2011-08-29T14:01:00.000-07:00

I've only known Dawn for a few years, but lived with her during one of the hardest times of BOTH of our lives. This is also the time when she started dating Jason and fell in love :) Jason is one of the most patient, loyal people I know. He is loyal to his friends, his family and especially Dawn and I belieive she is a better person because of it. Maybe Dawn isn't quite as patient as Jason, but she is probably the most honest, loyal friend I've ever had. If I want the truth, I go to Dawn. She is my go to girl when I need advice, and she ALWAYS has my back (even if we both know I'm in the wrong). I love these two together and am so thankful I got to be there when they became Mr and Mrs.

{August 21, 2011}

2011-08-23T10:19:00.000-07:00

Sugarland and Sara Bareilles Concert

Amazing singers, overpriced nachos, team shirts, amazing company, entertainment from drunk dancing couple(s), perfect weather, etc. Loved this night.

{August 13, 2011}

2011-08-23T09:39:00.000-07:00

Summer Hike

{1. Bees Game}

2011-07-12T15:32:00.001-07:00

One check off the Summer bucket list! This night was filled with hotdogs, icecream, a big fat coke, Holden trying to steal a ball from the innocent/grumpy kid in front of us, fireworks (mostly red and green, which made us wonder if Christmas fireworks were on sale), a tired mom who should have put her kids to bed earlier the night before, Addy and Ashlee dancing, Holden getting his foot stuck in a fence, and racing to the front of the crowd hoping to catch a ball for A and H. Loved this night.

He doesn't like pictures

My date

Family pic attempt

{Summer Bucket List}

2011-07-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

1. Baseball game
2. Movie in the park
3. Feed the ducks
4. Fly kites
5. Wheeler Farm
6. Boating
7. Get snow cones
8. Play with chalk
9. Bike ride/run
10. Go on a hike
11. Go to the zoo
12. Sand dunes
13. Make lady bug jars
14. Go to Cherry Hill
15. Summer Picnic
16. Play tennis
17. Make homemade ice cream
18. Pizza in the park
19. Fireworks
20. Get watermelon
21. Jump on the trampoline
22. Learn to tie shoes
23. Go to a parade
24. Farmer’s market
25. Drive in
26. Learn to ride two wheelers
27. Go to the church history museum
28. Lagoon
29. Run a race as a family
30. Have a BBQ

{Duck Beach 2011}

2011-06-29T13:27:00.001-07:00

Duck Beach 2011: Where 1200 LDS singles go to a small town in South Carolina to relax...or something.

Highlights:

Met Heather and we immediately started calling each other sister

Coke runs...a little more difficult when there aren't soda machines ANYWHERE

1 hour drive to church

4 AM dance parties...every night

Falling asleep in hammocks

Acoustic night

Avoiding the documentary at all costs

Playing football

Cooking zucchini, squash, and sweet potatoes for 90 people (takes about two hours)

AMAZING gourmet meals every night!!

Sharing a bed with two of your close friends and calling dibs on the middle every night

Laying out, beach walks, and dropping water bottles in front of hot guys so you can perfect your bend and snap

Hanging out with the lifeguards and promising to help them even though I have to plug my nose when I jump in the water

Catching/ running away from crabs

{Words of Wisdom: from Holden}

2011-06-13T12:01:00.000-07:00

Conversation I had with Holden in the car this morning:

H: Mom those people awe smoking, they need to go on top of da temple.
Mom: That's silly Bubba, why would they go there?
H: You know....like the gold man on the top
Mom: Ohhhhh, Holden...that's the Angel Moroni. He's not smoking, he's blowing his trumpet.
H: Long pause.....those people awe smoking twumpets?!?!?
Mom: Uhhhh...yea

{Seaworld}

2011-06-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

Day two of our Disneyland trip was spent at Seaworld. This place for some reason made me feel like a mediocre parent. These people were able to train fish better than I can train my own kids....kindof depressing in a weird way.

Bella and I were motivated to sit in the front row for EVERY show....Treasure said yes as long as we wore those garbage/rain coats (Thanks Trea). After seeing how wet we could potentially get, Addy tried to talk us into sitting further back for the second and third event. I proudly announced that there way no way we would be doing that, we were not a back seat kind of family....she's used this against me twice since we've been home.

The first show....before we purchased the garbage coats

We loved Biff.

Soak Zone

Soak Zone...again.

Those whales wore us out.

{Medieval TImes}

2011-06-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

Trea and I thought that the Medieval Times would be the perfect opportunity to teach our young ones how to NOT act in front of boys. Trea flirted it up with every knight there, I acted like a damsel in distress, and we encouraged the knights to fight and gave Trea away as the prize...we humiliated ourselves so our daughters could have flowers thrown to them. Luckily, neither of us brought a video camera so we can deny any of that took place.

The Torture Chamber....the kids acted wonderfully for the remainder of the night.

Tough Love

We embarrassed ourselves for a good cause...

The kids ended up with a total of eight flowers and the moms walked away with some weird confidence of winning over every drunken knight's heart that night.

{DISNEYLAND!}

2011-06-06T09:17:00.001-07:00

What better way to celebrate "6" than a surprise trip to Disneyland with close friends!? Addy has been talking about Disneyland since she went last year, probably mentioning it at least once a day (seriously). My friend Treasure and I decided to plan a girl's trip and not let little Addy in on the secret until the day we left. Addy and I arrived at Trea and Bella's with her thinking we were going to the park to play. When I pulled out her luggage I think she was in a silent shock when she realized this park was going to be in Anaheim.

This was the same face we got when she found out. We couldn't tell if she was excited or not.

Once I saw this face I knew she was happy.

...and this face.

We should have brought grownups on this trip. We spent the week:

Eating bad food (and a lot of it)

Going on "surprise" rides we didn't think the younger ones would love
Staying up way too late
Having jumping contests on the bed
Flirting with the knights at the Medieval dinner
Experiencing Seaworld on the front row (soak zone) for every show

Dance party in the middle of the Seaworld park

One Legged seagull stealing Bella's hotdog
Room service
Character chasing
Churros and ice cream everyday...oh and corn on the cob

She loved having big sister Bells

We all got ice cream right after this pic.

Daycare

Addy should have drove.

{May 1, 2011}

2011-05-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

{Six}

2011-04-27T12:11:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Addy turned six this week. It's both fun and hard to see your first grow up so fast. She's my little sidekick and has been attached to me since day one. She's a better sister than I ever was, the most empathetic child I've ever met, and the best little cuddler ever! The things I've learned that are of most worth knowing, I've learned from my littles. She has influenced my life more than I feel I can ever influence hers. She influences what I think, how I feel, and what I pray for most. I love ya sis, thank you for bringing so much love and absolute joy to our family.

{Tulip Festival}

2011-04-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

The kids were on Spring Break last week so we decided to take advantage of the somewhat good weather and go to the Tulip Festival. It supposedly features 250,000+ tulips spread throughout the Thanksgiving Point Gardens.....except we didn't walk around the 55 acres, we went straight through it. There was a massive hill that I talked the kids into rolling down. I would have rolled down but Treasure wouldn't do it with me, so I decided to act like a grown up too. We probably missed the most beautiful parts, but what we saw was still gorgeous. Plus, it gave us time to shop the vendors and eat the carni food. We'll be doing this again next year.

Our little family isn't known for taking good pictures.

Attempt #1

Attempt #2

Attempt #3

Attempt #4 (we're missing one)

{April 16, 2011}

2011-04-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

I ran a half marathon last year and hated every minute of it. Why am I training for another one? The little midgets thought it was the coolest ever thing that mom came home with a medal....now they want their own. We did our first "training" for our family 5k and Addy is motivated to win. They stopped twice for a "grass break" (you lay on the grass for five minutes and pretend to be dead) so it's a good thing they give everyone a medal just for making it to the finish line. I may have to make them some trophies and say they won for their age group.

Go us!!

{March 1, 2011}

2011-03-10T15:41:00.000-08:00

Addy and Holden have LOVED sledding this year. My friend Ashlee and I thought it may be fun to test their sledding skills in Park City. Pure sledding luxury. They provide the tubes AND the rope so you don't have to walk up the hill. Holden wasn't big enough to go down the biggest hills, but wanted to. I paid for Addy to go down with us, but she opted out and chose Holden's hill. Once we got to the bottom she changed her mind and wanted a re-do. Us girsl are so confusing.

Sidenote: Ashlee stole her roommate's fuzzy socks because I couldnt find gloves for my kids. They didn't know any different and Ashlee's roommate is probably using them right now. Genius idea Ash.

{February 19, 2011}

2011-02-23T08:19:00.000-08:00

Grandma and Grandpa Serr came to Utah to play. It decided to rain, which took sledding and the Chocolate Festival at Gardner Village out of the picture. We resorted to Boondocks...just as fun. Holden spent the majority of his tokens playing basketball, Addy spent hers trying to win an Ipad. It made me wonder if this was another sign into my future...Addy will be getting a scholarship for academics,and Holden will only go to college if he can play sports. I think I need a manny.

Thanks for coming grandma and grandpa...we sure do love your visits!!!

{February 2, 2011}

2011-02-03T15:26:00.000-08:00

I've been home sick lately {dramatic sigh}. Instead of sulking {kindof}, I've decided to bring home to me. Since I've moved to Utah I've been missing out on our family weekly lunch dates...until now. I took my kids out of school, like a mediocre mom would do, and went to lunch with my little fam. Holden double, triple, even quadruple dipped his chips in the ranch, queso and salsa {we didnt know which was which by the end} and Addy invented her own soup. We had semi-adult conversation about how school was going and how mom was working hard to earn money for candy and such. It was perfect.

{January 25, 2011}

2011-01-25T09:32:00.000-08:00

"Finish every day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your old nonsense. This day is all that is good and fair. It is too dear, with its hopes and invitations, to waste a moment on the yesterdays."

-Emerson

{New Years Resolutions}

2011-01-04T09:31:00.000-08:00

The kids and I went to dinner to discuss our goals for the New Year...this is what we came up with:

Holden: "Basebaw, Basketbaw, Soccer...all thwee, not just one"

Addy: "Play piano, learn to do a cartwheel and take sledding lessons"

Mom: "Focus on me and my kids, we come first :). Read the Scriptures with a study guide, focus on the basics rather than finding the meaning behind each verse and how it can be applied. Get rid of my overpriced gym membership (then spend that money on cute workout clothes). I've come to the realiziation that a cute pair of running shorts or running skirt from Lulu Lemon will motivate me WAY more than going to a gym with hot sweaty meatheads :) ....then run two half marathons. Take up tennis (and piano) with Addy."

{Merry Christmas}

2010-12-18T10:09:00.001-08:00

{Sledding}

2010-12-13T08:38:00.001-08:00

The kiddies and I had grandma and grandpa withdrawls so we took a small road trip to Idaho Falls. Our weekend was packed with good food, sledding, Christmas movies and 24/7 entertainment with grandpa. I saw a diiferent side of my son while I watched my perfect, innocent, baby Jesus of a child tackle gramps and give him titty twisters (I'm blaming it on his preschool, because he did NOT learn that from me). Addy spent most of the time "gaming". (I guess there are games on the Barbie website...There are also coloring pages you can print too. She printed off her own coloring book. (Sorry about the ink grandma and grandpa).

Addy would only go with grandpa Bud (my sled always seemed to go straight for the trees)

One of the few times he let me go with him...after that he was on his own

Addy pushing mom and Aunt Nikki down the hill

My independent "innocent" child

Stole Grandpa's coat....so nice of him

{Polar Express}

2010-12-08T13:40:00.000-08:00

I get so excited for our family traditions. I think I love them even more this year than I ever have. Our little family has gone through so many changes this past year, so our traditions have helped us feel some sort of normalcy throughout the chaois. We've had our share of trials this year, but I've learned to be thankful for them. Without them our family wouldn't be as close as we are, and for that alone, I wouldn't change a thing.

We thought it would be fun to go to Polar Express this year. Just the three of us. It was perfect. We decided this would be a new tradition for us. Hopefully next year Addy won't spill her hot chocolate all over the blanket that was supposed to keep us warm. And maybe Holden will deicde to go to the bathroom BEFORE the 45 minute train ride. I love them.

{October 31, 2010}

2010-11-08T10:03:00.000-08:00

Grandma and Grandpa Serr came to play for Halloween/Grandpa Bud's birthday. We all went to lunch together and then came back to the house to make a haunted house. We're a talented bunch, but I'm going to blame it on the icing again this year. The roof didn't want to stay up, so it later became a "retractable roof" (genius idea). It put up a good fight of continuously falling, but in the end Roof 0 vs Us 1.

Hard at work

Still working hard (I was hard at work taking pictures)

Refused to let that thing fall.

We did good. Kindof.

{October 31, 2010}

2010-11-08T09:14:00.000-08:00

The kids went to Disneyland in September and had their minds made up on what they wanted to be for Halloween ever since. Addy chose Minnie Mouse and Holden chose Woody and Buzz. My poor buddy couldn't fully grasp that he couldn't be both. He reluctantly decided on Buzz, the one costume that was then sold out at the Disney Store. Thankfully, I found one on EBay. At that point I didn't care that the overpriced costume was now even more expensive...ugh. (Side note: Addy loves to dress him up and we only have princess and ballerina costumes.....this played a big factor on why I didn't mind paying a little bit more).

We first went to my work to pass out candy, which Addy and Holden didn't necessarily love. Addy was a great help in getting rid of our bag of candy....throwing in HANDFULS to each kid passing by. They loved her. Holden helped by sleeping for the first hour, then stealing and eating the candy himself when he woke up. (Who would've known super heroes need naps too!?!)

Mommy's Little Helper

Mommy's little sleeper

Excited for Trick or Treating

We met up with some good friends from Farmington and went Trick or Treating with them. Daddy wanted to come and see the kids do what they do best ( beg :) ) so he came along for the fun. It rained, it poured, it was freezing! The kids didn't seem to notice but us moms definitely did. We followed them in a truck as they went door to door until my guilty conscience once again played tricks on me, and I eventually got out in the rain and went with them.

Mad Hatter, Alice, Minnie Mouse, and Buzz

Love them!

One of these bags may or may not be in my purse right now. They went trick or treating three times this year....stop judging me.

{30 Seconds of fame...}

2010-10-28T19:06:00.000-07:00

Coats for the Entire Family

Addy and Holden keep getting suckered into this by their mom....

{Sunday}

2010-10-27T15:12:00.000-07:00

{Witches Night Out}

2010-10-27T14:44:00.001-07:00

Holden loved the "Baseball Witches" best and felt the need to tell us that witches have big bums everytime we passed by one.
Addy was mesmerized by the Halloween decor and asked if it could be a new "family tadition"...she knows how much I love family traditions. She liked the "Ride to a Witch" the best.
Tyler enjoyed it, but wanted to experience Gardner Village on his own...he kept walking away from the group.
Dawn was stressed about work, but I know she secretly loved every minute.
My mind was racing (as it always is at Gardner Village)...If I had a boutique here what would I do now that Sassy Babies is here? How can I dress up like a witch for Halloween and not look like a weirdo? If I made that dress I SOOO would not have used that floral cotton print...but it would look good with my boots. Oh, wrapping paper...red and white polka dots or lime green and white stripes? Etc....

{Family Pics}

2010-10-19T14:36:00.000-07:00

Just got our family pics back that were taken by my cute friend Annie Randall. Thank you for devoting your Thursday night to walking around Sugarhouse with a camera attached to your face :)

I'm now needing to invest in more photo almums, frames, ....maybe a new bed spread to tie in the colors to the pics...and yes, I'm looking at paint swatches while I'm typing so I can repaint my office at work.....

{Haunted Provo River}

2010-10-17T19:01:00.001-07:00

The munchkins and I got a little daring this weekend, so we took a small road trip to Provo. This family friendly haunted boat tour,followed by icecream of course (because we got soo hot in our life jackets), will become a new Halloween tradition.

They were so excited that they would float if the boat tipped over.

Family photo...this may be on our Christmas cards this year

She was scared.

So was he.

{Sand Dunes }

2010-10-07T09:31:00.000-07:00

When we grow up....

We want to be just like Grandpa Bud

We spent the weekend with my family in Idaho Falls with the intention of going to Oktoberfest. We immediately felt too classy, so we spent the rest of the day at the Sand Dunes!

...and this is what I do when I think no one is looking.....stick out my stomach like I'm 8 months pregnant and make shadow puppets....soooo classy

{Holden is Hitting Three: Sports Party}

2010-09-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

Holden turned three, so like his sis, I gave him his first friend party. He picked his own theme, which after deciding on Cars, Hero, Buzz Light Year, Candy....he finally chose Baseball... I includd all sprots because I had a small feeling the sport of choise would change (which it did- four times). His party was filled with sports decor, ice cream Sundaes (from a NY Yankees sundae cup) and a pinata....the rest of the time was spent eatting and playing with friends. Happy Birthday Bubs...we love ya!

{Holden is Three}

2010-09-14T08:46:00.003-07:00

I love this guy!

"My Holden" has finally hit the big 0-3, and I think I deserve bragging rights with this little one. He is honestly one of the happiest kids I have ever met, and it's contagious....he makes me happy :)

Things I love and hope never change:

He says he's my boyfriend and is extremely protective of me. If someone gives me a hug, he will immediately make sure he gives me one too...and that it's better

He's also protective of his sister. He calls her "my Addy"

If he wakes up at three in the morning he has been known to come into my room with a coke. "Here's youw pop mom, can I sweep with you?" (sigh, he knows how to win me over).

If he falls and you ask him if he's okay, he replies "Of couwse" with a smile

If you ask him what families do, he yells "Stick togever!"

He's so stinking cute whenever he does anything that requires athletic ability....he can ride a bike, dribble a ball, play soccer, ride his razor like nobody's business, superman over our couch, play the Wii better than his mom..... it makes me feel better whenever he comes downstairs in one of Addy's dressups.

Best cuddler (along with his sis). He still lets me hold him, lay with him, and loves sitting on my lap. I'm realizing this isn't common.

He tells me he loves me everyday.

After a long day at work or a weekend with his dad, he runs up to me and gives me the best loves like he hasnt seen me in weeks!

He loves his sister and calls her "his best fwend". They rarely fight and I'm starting to realize that this isn't common either.

{Love This Girl!!!}

2010-09-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

Got to have a sleepover and play with my little Adds this weekend; I couldn't stop laughing at some of the advice she gave me on boys:

She confessed she was "going out" with a boy named Jack. (Mom doesn't allow this until she's 16). Luckily, she broke up with him. I asked her why and she said, "Because he lied to me mom. He said he couldn't go across the monkey bars and he can". Too bad Jack, you missed out on a great girl Advice 1: Don't date a liar.
We were walking through the dinosaur museum and Addy yelled for me to cover my eyes! I did, thinking there was a snake (she knows how much I hate them and my mind automatically thought of reptiles). She then ran up to me and told me some boys were looking at me and if I make eye contact with them they will make me fall in love with them. (These boys were about 6). Advice 2: Don't fall in love.
Addy is our empatheic child and spontaneously walked up to Holden, gave him a hug and told him she loved him. Immediately following, she stated, "But you aren't my boyfriend." Holden, confused, asked, "Why Addy? Becuase you said no?" Addy answered, "You silly. You didn't even ask." Advice 3: You have to ask.

{One Check off the Bucket List....}

2010-09-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

.....went Paragliding!

(Yes, I am signing my life away right here!)

To be perfectly honest, I didn't put paragliding on my Bucket List until after I did it and realized it needed to be on there. I spent an hour and a half in the air gettting to know my instructor pretty well....I could ask him ANYTHING, he was stuck with me :) He told me (in detail) about his last 20 years of flying...people getting air sick while he was instructing them, his favorite places to glide, his MANY competitions (yes, they have paragliding contests), etc.... I told him (in detail) about my newfound fetish for serial killers and scary movies. I talked about the documentaries on killers I watch on the History channel, Dateline episodes, and Ted Bundy. (I'd like to point out that this new found hobby of mine did not start until after my divorce). After we talked about our hobbies we spent the rest of the time combiining our two fetishes....flying and searching for dead bodies.

(My kiddos are pointing to me :) Love them).

First Day of Kindergarten....and Pre-K

2010-08-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

Addy and Holden had their first day of Kindergarten and Pre-K today! We got the new backpacks, went school shopping (they got to pick out their outfit for the FIRST day, mom got to pick out the rest ..... :) ), made cookies to go in their lunch box for day one, read "Kissing Hand", and had our last sleepover of the summer in mom's bed last night (so excited to sleep without snoring, teeth grinding, and sleep talking).

We got a little stressed this morning when we couldn't find Holden. After searching the house, I found him outside patiently standing at the sidewalk with his backpack on, waiting for the school bus.....he was pretty disappointed when I had to explain that I drive him to preschool.

....and I'm proud to report that I didn't even cry until I got to my car! Exciting, scary, sad, and so fun to see my little babes grow up!

{Crazy Hair Day}

2010-08-23T10:23:00.000-07:00

What do you do when the whole family wakes up with a bad hair day? We made a day out of it....Crazy Hair Day.... if your hair didn't look bad that day, you were the weirdo, not us....

{ Where does she come from...?}

2010-07-29T11:31:00.000-07:00

Found these cute pics on my camera and couldn't resist....I wonder where she gets it?!?! Weird.

{The 'D' word...and what I've learned}

2010-07-16T11:32:00.001-07:00

My life as a single mother has demanded a lot of me as I’ve tried to meet the needs of my two children, work full-time, clean my home, have meals on the table, etc. I have also learned to do things I had never done before. (Plumbing, shoveling, mowing lawns…my dad would be so proud!) However, through all of this, my children and I have grown even closer than I had ever imagined.

I’ve learned to not sweat the small stuff. I wasn’t put on this earth to accomplish a “to-do list”. Heavenly Father is more interested in what I AM than what I DO. Who cares if every meal doesn’t turn out, if my house isn’t perfectly clean, or if my kids end up in bed with me at night. In fact, my favorite moments have been the exact opposite…instead of dinner we occasionally go to a movie and splurge on hotdogs and popcorn (so what). I love being sandwiched between two kids throughout the night and having both of them have their little arms wrapped around me ( it’s not the most comfortable, but I wake up happy in the morning…with a sore neck).

I’ve also learned a lot about myself. I often wondered what I would do when faced with a hardship or trial that was given to me. I wondered how strong I could be, and if I could look adversity in the eye with a smile and easily walk away from the temptations I was handed. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as strong as I would have liked to be, but no matter what, I promised would always stay active in the church and rely on the Savior. I am constantly feeling a need to reevaluate my life and where I stand in living the Gospel. As soon as the papers were signed I immediately made the most important decision- I would stay active in the Church, even when I had to go alone.

I’ve learned that life is a continuous series of problems, and it’s up to me to decide how I am going to react to those adversities. I think it’s because God is not necessarily interested in making my life on earth “happy”, but using this life to build who I am. He is more interested in my character and growth than making my life pleasant. I’ve seen how difficulties can become opportunities for growth that may come in no other way. I’ve come to appreciate aspects of the Atonement I’d not noticed or understood before.

“I used to think that life was hills and valleys - you go through a dark time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don't believe that anymore. Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it's kind of like two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and something bad in your life”.. No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on. And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good you can thank God for.

{September 14, 2009}

2009-09-18T18:25:00.000-07:00

Holden's 2

My little guy just turned the big 0-2! We had a fun time celebrating his birthday....we ghettoed it at Chuck E. Cheese with grandma and grandpa Bud and Aunt Nikki, followed by presents and cake and icecream. The kiddos then went over to Aunt Nicoles and had a birthday dinner celebration in honor of our little guy!! He is such an amazing boy, with the best personality ever. You seldom see him throwing a tantrum and he ALWAYS has a HUGE grin on his face, from the moment he wakes up all the way to night night! He's our little daredevil...he was kicking and throwing balls as soon as he was walking, tackling his sister by 18 months, and learned how to ride a bike...while he had a broken collar bone. Bubba is our go-go kiddo that is running around like crazy right until bed time. He gives the best loves, kisses, and hugs and melts your heart with his big smile. Happy Birthday Holden....we all love you so much!

{August 1, 2009}

2009-08-08T17:06:00.000-07:00

First Bubble Bath!

Addy and Holden enjoyed their first bubble bath together....who would've known jets make the bubbles rise! I had to watch the little guy like a hawk, he got lost in them so fast. After seeing how fun bathtime can really be, they enjoy their baths a little more and mom gets to add bath bubbles to the grocery list each week.

{July 4, 2009}

2009-08-03T21:20:00.001-07:00

The kids and I spent the 4th of July weekend with Grandma and Grandpa Bud. This trip included:

*a 4:30 AM wake up call so we could get ready to see the hot air ballons take off at 5 AM. {Holden saw a horse along the way, and I think he appreciated petting its nose more than the balloons.}

*a ghetto fabulous Driggs parade. Luckily, the kids were more into the candy being thrown then the floats driving by and the horse droppings.

*the all too famous Idaho Falls fireworks. They are usually my favorite. This time they were exploding on the ground and it got pretty scary. It was kindof fun to see the firework people running for cover every few minutes though.

*yummy BBQ

*trying to keep up with Grandpa Bud

{Took a Break....}

2009-06-28T21:06:00.000-07:00

We've been out of commission......but coming back

{5/17/2009}

2009-05-21T16:50:00.000-07:00

{1935-2009}

Grandpa Jim passed away on Sunday morning after suffering form Dimensia since 99. He was a wonderful role model for me growing up as both a person and a parent. He loved people in general and was one of the hardest workers I know. He loved his wife, his children, and left an impression on everyone he met. I love you grandpal I will remember you always!

~Loved life in general....his family, friends, and even his work.

~Worlds best raspberry picker: taught me where to find the best ones

~Only way you could make him upset was if you didn't listen/disrepected grandma: you were threatened with a belt, although I never got it.

~always had peanuts for you...you were welcomed with a can everytime you saw him

~had friends everywhere...a 15 minute visit always turned into at least and hour.

~ Smitty's was a tradition: wanted to go there everytime we went out to eat together.

~ best at giving horsey rides

~ fun sense of humor: loved playing pranks, and you rarely if ever saw him in a bad mood.

{biker chic}

2009-05-19T09:24:00.000-07:00

Watch out neighbors...this little chica is a little out of control! She loves her new bike and looks like she is in a bubble with all of her safety gear! We had to go up a size in helmets {my kids have extremely large heads to fit their extremely large brains}, and because her pads come with it....her knee pads cover her shins and her elbow pads cover her arms....

...but she needs all the safety she can get....

To be continued....

my devil monster boy has almost got the hang of it too...just waiting to grow about two more inches.

{Life of the Little Guy....}

2009-04-30T15:36:00.000-07:00

The following timeline is not an exaggeration, merely a minute by minute timeline of an 18 month old monster......

6:00 AM....wakes up and screams for his "bobble" { bottle/sippy cup}, mom gets it and sits on the couch with him as he guzzles the drink while watching cartoons

6:15 AM....throws bottle at mom/dad and orders "moe" {more}

6:16 AM ...gets sick of the refilled sippy cup and goes for the toy closet, destroys what he can reach, then remembers the shelf with bins of toys. Yells for "ma" and points for her to get them down.

6:25 AM...gets sick of the toys and goes back to the sippy cup.

6:30 Am...diaper is overflowed, if mom doesnt change it in time he decides to take it off himself and go to a corner for his mid morning potty.

6:45 AM goes to the bath tub/toliet and decides to fill up his third sippy cup of the day. Then, everytime, decides to pour it out on the floor instead.

6:50 AM makes himself to the counter, in which he climbs on top of with the stools, and decides to take apart the flowers that are in the vase on the kitchen island. Goes for mom's big gulp from the night before and throws it off the counter. Laughs as mom comes running in realizing where he is.

6:52 AM Watches as mom cleans up the big gulp then decides to walk in it. Notices mom is upset and runs to her closet to hide.

7:00AM After mom has cleaned up the mess she goes to closet where Holden is hiding. He has pulled all her shirts off the hangers and is wearing one over his head. Mom sighs, rolls her eyes at another mess, but then goes to get the camera bc he looks cute with the shirt.

7:30 AM Big sis wakes up and he wants to take a bath with her. Mom turns on the water and Holden throws himself in with all his clothes. We get him undressed and he refuses to get out for about 45 minutes. During this time he throws toys at his sister to get a rise out of her and splashes water in her face continsuously.

8:15 AM...Mom gets the kids out and Holden takes off his towl and runs away to the same hiding spot in mom's closet again.

8:30 AM...pees on all of mom shirts on the floor that haven't been cleaned up yet from 7:00 AM disaster. Mom cleans up mess and starts her first load of laundry full of peed on shirts

9:00 AM ...Holden is found on the kitchen counter again. This time he is eatting the flowers. Mom makes breakfast and cleans up mess while he is in the high chair.

9:15 AM ..Holden decides he is done and throws his half eatten bowl of cereal on the kitchen floor and squirms to stand up. Mom hurries and grabs Holden so he doesn't fall out. Cleans up him and another mess.

9:30 AM mom gets everyone dressed and ready

10:30 AM Mom cleans up more messes from both kids that were created while she was getting the other child ready.

11:00 AM Go to the park. Holden attempts sliding down the pull; mom dashes to save his life right as he is about to go down.

11:01 AM Holden tries to walk off an ungaurded side of the playtop...mom dashes to his resuce before he jumps.

11:02 AM Holden slides down the slide face first, mom scrambles to get the end of the slide right before he biffs it onto the ground.

11:03 Am Holden walks to the swings. All of the swings are taken, so he walks in front right as a child is swinging forward. The little guy gets knocked in the head, and gets up just in time for the child to swing back and knock him down again.

11:15 After mom holds and consoles Holden, he gets up and goes back to the swings just to have it almost happen agian. Mom runs and gets him out of the way.

11:16 AM Holden sees birds and chases them for the remaining park time.

11:45 AM Mom gets the kids into the car and we drive away.

11:46 AM Holden opens the door and laughs as it flies open. Mom pulls over and closes the door, this time putting on the child safety lock. We get home safely.

11:55 AM Holden is knocked out, asleep for about two hours....

2:00 PM Holden wakes up screaming for a "ducka" {sucker} the only food word he knows. Mom goes and makes him a late lunch. Halfway through the lunch he decides he doesnt want it anymore. This time he throws his food into the blinds.

2:20 PM Mom cleans up the mess he made on him and all the blinds.

2:40 PM We read together...Holden gets bored and throws book at mom's head. He laughs and does it again...then attempts another time, before mom takes the book away.

3:00 PM Mom starts cleaning and turns around to see another mess he made, and another, and another and another....

4:30 PM Gets the house looking somewhat decent and hauls the kids into the car to do a pop run. Mom is ready to fall asleep.

5:00 PM Mom starts making dinner and gives up on cleaning as she watches Holden tear apart everything.

6:4P.M. Dad comes homes....mom collapses on the couch, exhausted!

{Ugh Moment}

2009-04-27T15:54:00.000-07:00

Stained Carpets

Holden, the little stinker, out smarted me 0nce again!! I went to put away the little devil's laundry and came back to a FULL carton of chocolate milk on my carpet. He then sees my shocked look, laughs, and starts jumping in the massive puddle of milk.......if words could describe!!!

I am so thankful Casey is home.

{April 21, 2009}

2009-04-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

Addy started off her big Number 4 with a Tea Party. We had fun decorating our spring/ top hats, getting manicures, face painting, getting dolled up in jewelry or bow ties and watches, and learning about table manners from grandma Debbie We then had our "tea and Brunch" then played musical teacups. Opening presents was still Addy's favorite, and by the time the cake and ice cream arrived she wanted everyone OUT....just because she wanted to play with all of her exciting new toys.

My baby girl just turned 4...it's the best/worst feeling in the world to see her grow up way too fast. Addy is an amazing little girl, with such a sweet spirit. As a mother I have tried to teach her everything I need to, but whenever I sit back for a little bit I realize she has taught me SO MUCH more. She has taught me that:

...when someone is sad the best cure is giving them a hug and reminding them how much you love them

...that helping other people is the best way to tell them you love them

...you can make the worst days so much better just by dancing

...that Jesus is ALWAYS watching and, so you have to be on your best behavior at all times

...when people are mean they get over it so much faster if you try to be nice back

...if someone tells you something mean or trys to put you down, it's because they don't know who you really are.

...if you wake up with a smile you will go to bed with a smile

....that Jesus needs balloons too..she lets them go in the air to give one to him if she thinks she was naughty.

...the older you get, the more responsibility you GET TO have and this responsibilty is a good thing.

...praying to Heavenly Father makes him happy.

....if you have a bad day you should never take it out on your family, they will understand more than anyone else why you are upset.

....you don't have to accomplish everything in one day...sometimes you can wait for a day to clean your room. You don't always have to try to be perfect.

{Easter}

2009-04-19T21:27:00.000-07:00

We started off our Easter vacay by going to Logan, UT to the "Baby Animal" days. Addy LOVED picking up the baby chicks and bunnies, going into all the olden day homes, and running after candy when it was shot through a cannon. Holden loved holding a balloon the WHOLE time, without speaking. { He just stared at his balloon, content in his smooth ride aka: stroller} The kids attempted to get money down from a grease pole, while Debbie { my mother in law} and I cheered them on...we forgot to bring cash, so this was going to be our lunch money. We only lost one child, and it was only for about 30 seconds.....and Addy only dropped one baby animal. We all left pretty happy. Addy and Sawyer loved this adventure so much they decided to make thier own turtle farm..

The kids and I then traveled to good ol Idaho Falls. We had our own little easter egg hunt, colored on really big paper, Addy danced with grandpa Bud, and we had tons of really yummy meals. the easter Bunny stopped by and brought the kids TWO easter baskets....they were either really good or grandpa Bud paid him off. The kids got to go to dinner with Great Grandma Rae, which is always a fun treat for them.

The kids and I then met busy daddy at grandma and Grandpa Jones for easter Dinner....yummmm. They had so much fun playng with the cousins and finding more eggs. Holden enjoyed holding his balloon {Suprise}.....

...and then there's the EASTER dress that wasn't officially complete until the week after. Yes, I ran out of fabric two days before we left and the fabric arrived the day after I left to Idaho Falls...pleasant. I guess we can call this the Spring Dress.

We loved Easter, and Addy can't believe how good Jesus must have been to get a bunny that delivers her presents. She doesn't quite grasp the concept of the meaning, but we're working on it.

View a wonderful Easter message Here

{April Fool's Day}

2009-04-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

My hubby LOVES to give me a hard time about giving the kids enough veggies , so for dinner we are having these......

....It's actually Shephard's Pie....don't those mashed potatoes look so much yummier in pink and blue?!?!?

I also decided to do this.......

this "pink Lemonade" is actually Jell-O. I can't wait to see him struggle to get a drink of this!!!! Muhahahah......my kids will probably be pretty dissappointed after taking a bite out of their cupcakes....and my husband probably thought I forgot the significance of this day when he went to his drawer this morning and found his underwear was still there.....Happy April Fools Day!

*I'll post pics of my VICTORY tonight!

{March 17th}

2009-03-23T19:10:00.000-07:00

First off, my mom's birthday dreadfully falls on St. Patrick's Day ( total bummer bc she hates to wear green). The kids and I celebrated this day by banning the color from our wardrobe as a tribute to my mom. We've decided to never do that again, bc we have little bruises from getting pinched all day. Instead, I heard and found the cutest little tradtions I am going to start next year.

First, a leprechaun trap. If you get lucky you will catch one. However, the sneaky little buggers are so fast that this rarely happens, but they will usually leave some gold coins for the kiddos. When the kids wake up ( mine do at 5:30), the first thing they do is check the traps. Second, my sister in law started the cutest tradition with her little fam. Her kids get leprechaun kisses. Every St. Pattys Day they wake up to a big green spot on their nose....leprechaun kisses { which may or may not just be a magic marker that daddy colors on thier nose when they have fallen asleep.} Last tradtion: green milk for the babies...a friend and I walked into the kids club of the gym to find Leprechaun milk {which, again, may or may not just be green food coloring} in her infants/toddler sippy cup....cutest thing ever.

Happy birthday Mom....love ya, but....the kids and I don't think we will ever be able to ban green on your birthday again...but we did try.

{Feb 14-Feb22}

2009-02-24T19:41:00.000-08:00

{Day 1} Our Valentine's Day started out in Ft. Lauderdale where Casey got reservations to a "nice" restaraunt neither of us had obviously been to. It was a 60 year old steakhouse that had received great reviews on the internet, and when we got there it definetley looked 60 years old...every person there was at least that age+20 as well. The food was great, and the 80 year old waitress got us out of there in 3+hours....thankfully we weren't in a hurry. It was, however, so exciting for us to be together, alone, to celebrate this special day. Casey is an amazing huband and I am so thankful to have in my life. He makes me want to be a better person, loves life, and is a wonderful father to our kids.

The next day we left Florida and boarded the ship to Half Moon Cay, Grand Turkes and Caicos, the Cayman Islands and Cosmel. Casey's work takes the attorneys' and their spouses on a trip every other year and we were lucky enough to join them this time around. We met some great people that we know we will continue to be friends with and had so much fun just being together. Some of our favorite memories are:

~ Half Moon Cay's beautiful white sand and bright blue beach. We loved the Cabanas, the "Survivor" atmosphere, and the chips, salsa and guacomole that I hoarded in every Cabana that Casey's work reserved.

~ Grand Turkes was hit by a hurricane last September, and it was humbling to see the devastation,but upbeat people that lived on the island.

~ Caymen Island was the most beautiful place I have been. We swam with the stingrays, and BOTH screamed like girls. {We did eventually pucker up and kiss one.} I later held a big iguana {another first in my life}

~ We experienced Margaritaville....twice. I could live off their pina coladas {virgin}

~ Casey and Jared snorkled and got stung by jelly fish, while Sade and I layed out on the Cosmel beach. We had the most amazing Mexican food which we all felt later on in the trip, and spent about 6 hours bargaining with the locals. Casey and Jared got tatoos ( they say they will last two weeks, I'm afraid it will never come off.) Jared got Winnie the Pooh, Casey got a lizard ( which is weird, because he was too scared to even touch one this whole trip).

~ Took a boat out to the Everglades and searched for alligators...I was brave again and held a baby croc....I am proud to award myself the Steve Irwin award.

Half Moon Cay

Caymen Islands

The Sting Ray

Casey before he got stung by a jellyfish

Casey and his boss...buddies

Me before I got homesick

{Like Mother, like Daughter}

2009-02-09T09:33:00.000-08:00

Since Addy turned three, she has fallen in love with jewelry, but has become a little obsessed after Grandma and Grandpa Serr got her a jewelry box for Christmas. You will rarely see her without a necklace {I wonder where she got it from?!?!} For the past week, she has HAD to wear mommy's jewelry, instead of her own. Today, we picked out a cute little starfish necklace with a small crystal on it. She put it on and told me that the shiny rock was in fact a crystal, not a diamond. She then stated,

" Mom, I love diamonds, they make my "hawt" happy"

{hawt means "heart" in three year old language}

I think I am raising her well.

{Holden Moment}

2009-02-09T09:27:00.000-08:00

Holden is finally at that age where I can never leave him alone. He is the most adventurous, on the go child I think I know. I noticed {after only 2 mintues, I swear} that it was a little too quiet in the house. I walked into the bathroom, and found this little monster/drag queen: This little guy had gotten into my WATERPROOF mascara! Ask anybody, the mascara stayed on his face/fingers/hands for almost a week....and YES I will be using this picture as blackmail when he is older.....love you Buddy!

{Going Private}

2009-01-26T19:58:00.000-08:00

After way too much consideration, I have finally decided to go private. No, I don't have blog stalkers.....I've just decided that I really want to make this blog a family journal. My blog will now not only tell the fun {as fun as we get} times our family has had, but the bad days we encounter too. I want our blog to be TRUE journal, which means I may have to get a little more intimate if it is going to be about my REAL life and show who I REALLY am.

Don’t ever think, “I’ll never forget this day, this person, et cetera.” 40 years is a long time and you might not be able to remember your phone number, let alone the special person you liked in the third grade. I personally write about things that happen in my life each day, whether secular or spirital, along with my personal thoughts and ponderings. I mark those entries that have great spiritual significance to me such as answers to prayers, testimony, and other spiritual experiences from the temple or scriputre study. Elder Richard G. Scott said, “Knowledge carefully recorded is knowledge available in time of need. Spiritually sensitive information should be kept in a sacred place that communicates to the Lord how you treasure it. This practice enhances the likelihood of your receiving further light.”

If you'd like to continue to read our blog, please email or leave us comment with your email....

January 17, 2009

2009-01-26T11:58:00.000-08:00

After 5+ years of dating, my sis and Aaron tied the knot. We had a wonderful time in Idaho Falls last week getting to know Aaron's family ( so cute, btw), finishing carmel apples ( never want to eat/ look at another carmel apple......unless, Holly, it's from V's), and setting up for the big day. My mom was our little wedding planner for this event, and did a wonderful job as usual.

Nikki looked beautiful in her dress (probably better than I did when I wore it for my own wedding), and they looked so happy together. I'll admit, it was kindof hard seeing my lil' sis become a grown up ( weddings seem like the right of passage to the grown up world in my eyes) but I am so excited for her and for her future as Mrs. Westfall.

Congrats you two....we wish you a life of happiness together ( with all the grown up stuff you will get to encounter and endure)

"Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around and shouting that he has been robbed. The fact of the matter is that most putts don't drop, most beef is tough, most children grow up to be just people, most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration, most jobs are more often dull than otherwise. Life is like an old time rail journey...delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride."–President Hinckley

December 21, 2008

2009-01-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

Jason and Chelsea Baugh

This day was picture perfect for the new Mr. and Mrs! They had a beautiful ceremony, there was a beautiful bride, a beautiful cake...and wedding...

Our little family

Addisyn and Daddy

{ Their first dance }

Congratulations Chels and Jason! We're so excited for both of you!

Christmas

2008-12-28T21:01:00.001-08:00

Christmas was an eventful time for the Jones family....I'm excited to announce that we accomplished all of our family traditions this year. (phew).....

We started off our holiday season traveling to my hometown....good ol' Idaho. ( I will eventually get some pics up).... There, we followed every tradition in the book...we went to my grandparents for Christmas Eve, took our family journey to look at Christmas lights ( Addy threw up in the car because she had too many olives that night.....it REALLY put a damper on that routine), opened our Pj presents ( mine had little feeties....most comfortable things ever) and then made my mom suffer until everyone woke up to open Christmas presents ( she's always the first one up!) The kids were so much fun to watch this year; I think Holden loved the candy in his staocking the most...he wouldn't let go of it, even while opening presents. This year Addy understood that she got to keep the presents, which made her pretty excited. For the last 6 montsh she has been asking for EVERYTHING in the store....I always said yes when she said she wanted "this" and "that" for Christmas....I said yes too it all, and was nervouse she would be disppointed come Christmas morning; luckily she wasn't. We loved every minute of it.....I love going back to my hometown, there's something about Idaho Falls that is so relaxing to me.

Christmas morning we took our little fam to Logan where we celebrated Christmas day with Casey's family.Addy and Holden loved being with their cousins and I loved the Day after Christmas shopping. I couldn't help but buy more stuff for our Christmas tree. I became a shopaholic....I felt the more I bought, the more I save. My husband, I'm sure, would beg to differ. I was supposed to spend another day there, but got too excited to put up my Christmas tree decorations....and YES I am keeping my tree up as long as possible....

(this isn't my tree...but I have all these same ornaments......I'm going to be a little bit prideful and say that I like mine better:) ....but only because I know how much work it took to get my tree up.......this lady probably had help

We are so thankful for the Holiday Season and for our Savior and his sacrifice. We're greatful we were able to spend this time with our loved ones and want to thank you all for making this such a wonderful time for our family.....we love ya!

My Tiny Dancer....

2008-12-22T20:17:00.000-08:00

Our little Addy has become quite the little dancer....I didn't know if this was something I wanted her to do ( mommy living vicariously through my child) or if it was something she truely loved....until I see her cute, cheesy little grin as she performs. This year she was pushed around a little by some of the other little dancers in her class, but she jsut continued to smile and danced around them...so cute...

When she walked on she immediately went front and center, Miss Katie had to aske her to step back and line up with the rest of her class......

After her recital she came up and said "Mom, I don't want to go to dance practice anymore....."I gulped a little, devastated, then reminded myself she needed to do something SHE loved...but then she said...." I just want to have wee-citals all the time so I can dance on the stage..." phew.....I can still keep living my little dream through my three year old.....

....and I have this cute little blonde bobbed cutie to thank for Addy loving dance sooooooo much....Halle you were a rock star on that stage.....you two are adorable together!

Bring on the Traditions

2008-12-11T15:51:00.000-08:00

I love traditions. I love them so much, I can't ever give one up after making a new tradition. Therefore, I see my list coninuously get longer and longer, and my stress level raise higher and higher, but still I am unwilling to compromise and let one go. Along with the list above, I also have "Started" my Black Friday sales, I have to make soup on the first day of snow, have family Sunday drives to look at Christmas lights.....and I better say "etc." because I know myself too well...I will be getting more.....

We accomplished the infamous gingerbread house this week...and had to share. Who wouldn't want to live in this house?!?!

Casey's mom is a wonderful house designer....sadly, I don't think any of those talents passed on to my husbands genes.....unfortunately, they didn't pass on to my daughter's either.

P.S. My contribution to this lovely home was the icing.....my husband said it was the consistency of soup.....this could be a contributer to our sad looking house.

Mellow Yellow....and some blue

2008-11-18T13:18:00.000-08:00

I cant express how much I love this book. The first thing I want to say to someone when I meet them is "What color are you?" Take the test here. It helped me see better ways to communicate with a white(my husband) and how to overcome my weakness as a yellow (and some blue).....still working on it. If anyone has any tips on how to overcome obnoxiousness, perfectionism, or being over sensitive....please let me know. Oh, but please don't be too overbearing....my sensitivity may not be able to take it...thanks;)

Shabby, Jonesy, and Nie Nie

2008-11-10T18:41:00.000-08:00

Jonesy Baby and Shabby Baby have joined together in their efforts to help with the Nie Nie Recovery. ALl proceeds from these fun gift packs will go directly to the Nielson's for their recovery . It's at the shop
In late August Stephanie and Christian were in a private plane crash, and the result is months of recovery. Stepahnie's site continues to have re-posts from her, I reccommend reading her blog if you ever get a chance. This woman is truely inspiring as a mother and a person. Her sister, just as inspiring, continuely gives updates on Stephanie's ( Nie's) recovery as well as her husbands. I wish I knew about these blogs and the family before their tragic accident, but have loved reading and seeing how faithful and strong they are as a family since. We are all hoping for the best; youre in our prayers.

2008-11-07T13:18:00.000-08:00

Outside the Los Angeles temple Thursday, dozens of protesters screamed "Bigots" and "Shame on You" at half a dozen men in button-down shirts and ties who looked out at the demonstration from behind the temple's closed gates. ~LA TIMES This distrurbing article shows that this only seems to be the beginning

Allegations of bigotry or persecution made against the Church were and are simply wrong. The Church’s opposition to same-sex marriage neither constitutes nor condones any kind of hostility toward gays and lesbians. Even more, the Church does not object to rights for same-sex couples regarding hospitalization and medical care, fair housing and employment rights, or probate rights, so long as these do not infringe on the integrity of the traditional family or the constitutional rights of churches.
Some, however, have mistakenly asserted that churches should not ever be involved in politics when moral issues are involved. In fact, churches and religious organizations are well within their constitutional rights to speak out and be engaged in the many moral and ethical problems facing society. While the Church does not endorse candidates or platforms, it does reserve the right to speak out on important issues.

Voters were not trying to take away any rights of same sex couples. They will still receive all of the benefits they have, they were just trying to preserve the definition of marriage as being between a man and a woman. Family is so important and they felt the urge to protect it.

MISSING!

2008-11-07T07:58:00.000-08:00

Addy 's CANDY!

Last seen in mom's hands, purse, pockets, and drawers. If you have any leads to where this may have gone, please contact Addy...not mom ( I don't trust her with it)

Happy Halloween

2008-11-01T10:37:00.000-07:00

fRoM....

Our little PirAte

TiNkerBelL and her broken wing

WaRReN JeFfS aNd His PolygaMouS WifE

happy 29th Birthday Grandpa Bud

2008-10-19T17:10:00.000-07:00

My side of the family came down from Idaho Falls to visit us for Grandpa's Birthday. For some reason, he keeps turning 29 every year, but nobody dares ask why. ( kidding).

We all went to the U game, spent too many hours at Tai Pan, ate tons, and searched for wedding stuff for the soon to be Aaron and Nikki Westfall.....
Addy was so excited to have them come....and thought they came all the way just to sign her cast.....how special.
Thanks Mom, Dad, Nikki, and Aaron for coming to visit....we love you all!!!!

A Visit To The Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

Our Family visited the pumkin patch this year!!! Minus the nats and mosquitos, it was so fun!!! We felt like we were at a pound.....we wanted to take them all home with us, but we each decided we would pick one. Dad decided on a white one ( we heard they are the best for pumkin pies....not that I am going to make it!), Addy of course chose the biggest one she could find, Holden chose the smallest ( it's all he could carry), and I chose the funniest, most awkward looking pumkin ( if it was even a pumkin?!!?!?) because I felt bad for it.

Thanks Case for taking our family to the "Patch".....we all want to go back...... And.....I promise I dont favor Addy. She gets all the pics......but it's because she is the only photogenic one in the family....poor Holden.

World's Worst Mom goes to......

2008-10-19T16:46:00.001-07:00

ME!!!

Because of this......

Yep, that hot pink decor is indeed a cast...the aftermath of my little Addyisn breaking her funny bone. (seriously). Last Sunday Addy thought it would be fun to jump off the chair in our living room and land on her elbow. After hours in the insta care, Addy and I came home to her in a sling and tears in BOTH of our eyes.

Luckily, she will NOT be getting surgery like we thought. In fact, she only has to keep her cast on for three weeks....so for Halloween this year our little Tinkerbell is going to have a broken wing :(

So yes, I think I deserve the above trophey. If you disagree....you may want to look at the picture below ...( I took this the day AFTER Addy broke her arm.....)

Ministry of Angels

2008-10-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

While watching conference this last week, I couldn't help but think of Jeffrey R. Holland's talk on the Minsitry of Angels. The sacrifice and service from friends and family proves that Heavenly Father answers our prayers through those that are faithful and in tune with the Spirit.

Holland stated, " when we speak of those who are instruments in the hand of God, we are reminded that not all angels are from the other side of the veil. Some of them we walk with and talk with—here, now, every day. Some of them reside in our own neighborhoods. Some of them gave birth to us, and in my case, one of them consented to marry me. Indeed heaven never seems closer than when we see the love of God manifested in the kindness and devotion of people so good and so pure that angelic is the only word that comes to mind."

This talk proved true this last week, when my daughter went to a birthday party for the sweetest lady who had just turned 60 ( nope that number is not a typo). I don't know how long this lady has been doing this, but every year for her birthdya she throws a Barbie party for little girls. When I asked why, she simply stated that it's fun for her to see the children so happy....and what a great birthday present it is for her to see these little girls get so excited to dress up and feel pretty.

Addy walked into a house filled with over 100 barbies ( some of which she gave away for games) and was given a crown. She then walked into a room where a bunch of cute girls were doing the childrens hair. She was able to make bracelets, have her nails done, make a cd case, and was given dress up items and a purse filled with goodies. Jody's niece later told me that she prepares for these parties all year.

This small act of kindness and selflessness will be remembered. Addy still talks about it, and asks when she can go again. I know this is something I will always remember, and want to thank you Jody for making my daughter's day. You have inspired me to be a better person!

Celebrate Fall With .....

2008-10-09T20:55:00.001-07:00

Chocolcate Pumpkin Cake!!

MAKES 14 SERVINGS WORKING TIME 20 MINS TOTAL TIME 55 MINS CAKE1
½ cups flour
2/3 cup cocoa
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup buttermilk
1 cup canned pumpkin
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¾ cup butter (1 ½ sticks) softened
1 cup dark brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, plus one yolk
Heat oven to 375ºF. Line the bottoms of two 8-inch rounds with parchment paper and lightly butter. Sift the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. Stir the buttermilk, pumpkin, and vanilla extract together in a small bowl. Beat the butters and sugars together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and yolk, one at a time. Reduce mixer speed to low and alternately beat in the flour and buttermilk mixtures in thirds. Pour the batter into the prepared pans. Bake until a tester, inserted in the center, comes out clean – about 35 minutes. Cool layers completely before frosting the cake.
...............................................................FROSTING
6 ounces cream cheese
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons cocoa
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
¾ teaspoon vanilla(separate bowl)
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup powdered sugar
orange food coloring
Beat 6 ounces softened cream cheese using a mixer set on medium-high speed until fluffy. Add 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, 2 ¼ teaspoons cocoa, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, and ¾ teaspoon vanilla and beat on low speed until well combined. In a separate bowl, beat 1 ½ cups heavy cream with ¾ cup powdered sugar and orange food coloring on medium-high to soft peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. (may need to add more orange food coloring to your liking). Spread 1 cup frosting between the two layers and use the remaining frosting to ice the top and sides of the cake. Makes 3 cups. Chill 30 minutes and proceed to glaze the cake.
...............................................................GLAZE
4 ounces chopped bittersweet chocolate or semi-sweet)
1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter
3 tablespoons corn syrup
½ cup heavy cream
Place 4 ounces of chopped bittersweet chocolate, 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter, and 3 tablespoons corn syrup in a medium heatproof bowl. Bring ½ cup heavy cream to a boil, pour it over the chocolate, and let sit for 3 minutes. Gently stir until smooth. Let sit for 3 to 5 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly. Pour the glaze onto the center of the frosted cake and smooth out to the edges to allow the glaze to drip over the sides. Makes 1 cup.

Who is Nie Nie?!?!?

2008-10-02T17:06:00.000-07:00

I recenly put up this lovely little button on my blog after becoming obsessed with the recovery of Stephanie and her husband Christian. In mid August, the Nielson's were in a private plane crash, and the result is months of recovery. I read about this incident from my sister in law's blog, back in September and for some reason, cannot stop thinking about this family and what they have gone and continue to go through.....

Stepahnie's site continues to have re-posts from her sister in law, I reccommend reading her blog if you ever get a chance. This woman is truely inspiring as a Latter Day Saint and mother. Her sister-in-law, just as inspiring, continuely gives updates on Stephanie's ( Nie's) recovery as well as her husbands. I wish I knew about these blogs and the family before their tragic accident, but have loved reading and seeing how faithful and strong they are as a family since. I hope for the best; your in our prayers.

My Little Man Is One

2008-09-19T18:12:00.000-07:00

Holden is one!! I can't believe how big he has gotten these last couple months, but his personality has stayed the same. We had so much fun last weekend celebrating our little guy turning the big -1-. My family came down on Saturday and we all decided to make a day trip out of it and travel to Park City. We, of course, took more family pics ( I hate myself in all of them, so you don't get to see any this time) It's always so fun to see my fam, especially in Utah. I still believe I will convert them to utahism.....

On Sunday, we then got to see Casey's family and I made a small dinner for them. We had the traditional dinner, oipening of presents, cake and ice cream.....then got to start planning Chelsea's wedding ( which is only the funnest thing in the world for me to do!!!!) I am so lucky to have two sisters getting married within the next few months.....I lvoe seeing them both so giddy and happy ( not that they weren't happy before)......anyway, back to my man Holden....

Why I love my little Dude:

1. He can sleep anywhere....in my arms, on the floor, in the stroller, car, he even fell asleep while his dad was pushing him in a swing at the neighbors.
2. He is constantly happy and always happy. Actually, when he was about 6 months I took him to the doctor because he seemed too. happy. I basically was laughed at.
3. He loves to cuddle....my favorite thing in the whole world
4. He loves his sister....he could watch her for days.
5. He loves to laugh......in fact, if you laugh he HAS to laugh louder. Sometimes it becomes a family competition to see who can laugh the loudest. Holden always has to win.
6. He's a mommas boy. I like this only because Addy was such a daddy's girl.
7. So easy going
8. Whenever dad comes home, he does his little duck waddle and yells, "dadadadadad" until dad picks him up and hugs him.
9. He snorts.....the cutest thing ever.
10. He snores, so cute when they are babies, so unattractive when you are married to them.
11. He loves to tease me. he looks at me and says "dada"...then laughs, because he sees he can get a rise out of me. He eventually gives in and says "mama" then gives me a hug.

Growing Up....too fast

2008-09-07T20:29:00.000-07:00

Addy's first official day of preschool was last week!!! She absolutely loved it and.....I absolutely cried. She was so cute with her little buddies; none of them seemed to notice us moms standing in the background as we dropped them off, hoping they would look back and pretend to need us for something. Addy has been looking forward to this day for months......so excited for her!!!!

Now to the "too fast" part.....she LOVES boys! This is coming from a mom who didn't know boys even existed until I was about 17. I am slightly freaking out......

Her a are a few examples of my daily stresses:

1. We went to a "meet the teacher" event for preschool. When she saw her friend Parke her cheeks turned flaming red as she looked to me and said..."mom, I want to play with that boy....and then maybe we can go on a date"

2. My sister in law and her boyfriend watched my kids for my birthday date with the hubby. When we got home they had story upon story of her wanting to hold hands with him, have him tickle her back, sitting next to him, etc.

3. We had a family talk about Addy wanting boys to be her boyfriend. We let her know that the only boy she can go on dates with until she is 16 is her dad. She replied with, " well, I'm all growed up now. I'm thwee. Aunt Nikki said I can share her boyfriend with her..."

What to do?!?!!? I AM WELCOMING ANY SUGGESTIONS AND UN-WANTED PARENTAL ADVISE....PLEASE!!!!!

Dam

2008-08-31T19:50:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Labor Day this year by attempting to camp at Palisades Dam. Casey and I hadn't actually full on camped ( this means tent) for years.....so this was a huge adventure for us. We had so much fun though.....my uncle brought up some horses and four wheelers, some of us fished, went to the Dam Store ( that is the name I promise) and we got the all too famous square ice cream cones.....Addy riding a horse by HERSELF for the first time....
The after math of Addy falling in the crick ( that's creek in Idahoan)

Aunt Nikki and baby Holden....the day after none of us slept

Addy and mama four wheeling

I forgot how fun camping could be when you are actually roughing it without a cabin. I also remembered how paranoid my husband was ( I learned about this nice little characteristic when we moved to Sacramento for a year) . At one point in the night he thought a bear was attacking our tent.....it ended up being a bat.

Family Portraits

2008-08-31T19:36:00.000-07:00

Every time we come visit my fam my mom pops out the camera and we attempt some family photos.......our goal is to get a family picture in every color of shirt ( kidding).....last time our shirts were white, now black, and her next idea is a wheat field and a barn ( do my posts even make sense?!?!?)

After an hour of flashing lights in our face, we decided the pictures weren't what we wanted....so we are making another attempt in a few weeks......yeay

Family Reunion!!!

2008-08-31T18:29:00.000-07:00

This year we had our annual ( well every four years) family reunion in good ol' Island Park, ID. Every time we plan this fun filled event we try to make it in a different state.....IDAHO had to be included......

My mom spent so much time planning this reunion......and every detail was planned out. We went horseback riding, played golf, went floating, fishing, canoeing, played "scum" , air hockey, .....rockband........ and of course over the top food ( do I always mention food in my posts?!?!?)

Addy loved riding the horses and spending time with her " new friends" ......there were two other girls her age. Holden, of course, was never put down and loved all the attention. And I .....loved seeing everyone again.......Thanks Mom for planning such a fun little part...ay!!! Too much fun

Catching up!

2008-08-19T18:10:00.000-07:00

Fourth of July:( Has it really been that long since I have blogged?!?!? The Fourth of July started on the third for us this year. We went to see grandma and grandpa, and were able to watch some fun fireworks on the third. ( I still don't think they are as good as Idaho Falls'.....Casey and I agree to disagree.....) Addy had so much fun playing with her cousins....and Holden didn't make a peep. It was so much fun to be with Casey's family and relax for a weekend before Casey headed off to work and night time Bar Exam classes again.

We then went to Bear Lake, and had SO MUCH fun just hanging out on the Lake. My sister-in-laws' family brought their boat.....( totally forgot to ride it!!!) and the kids all loved it!!!! However, the picture above will always be most memorable moment. We got stuck in the sand. Thankfully, there were a few macho men that helped while Nicole and I took pics.....
Next, We headed off to the "Car Show" and "Cruise-In" . If you haven't done this, I reccomend it at least once.....after that you seem to see the same cars year after year. The kids loved it though....and they all picked out their favorite car......Addy's had a Tweety Bird on it......that's all she cared about it. Mine was pink. I think after we left every polished car on display had little tiny hand prints.....sorry proud car owners........

We celebrated Taya's birthday throughout the day...and ate cake during the cruise-in.....it was so fun to see her and Ryan again....it seems like I never get to see them enough....they do always come to Utah looking beautfiully tan though....jealous. Happy Birthday taya......hope you had fun.
After Casey took the bar we headed to LAKE TAHOE.......and the cold bug followed. Holden and I seemed to be sick the whole time, but if I had to be sick and relax anywhere it would be here!!! We got to celebrate Casey's grandma's 29th ( again) birthday. Casey's mom arranged this fun filled birthday bash.....and Grandma Sharon seemed to love every minute of it! It was so nice to see them again, they were always our dating buddies/mom and dad/ grandparets while we were living in Sacramento and we have missed seeing them on a weekly basis. We love you guys!!! Lake Tahoe was so fun...we went rafting, running, played tennis, ate at fun places( you always eat really well when Grandma Debbie is there....thanks Debbie! ) and of course went to the beach daily.

And one more random moment:

Holden has been eatting for awhile now, since about 7 months, but had his first official piece of human food a few weeks ago. ( I know....I am so late ...but had to share: ) ) This "after" shot is from one....ONE....small cookie. He loved it! Ever since this one cookie, he has to have what's on our plate...

PArt 2 of Catching up will come shrtly.....jsut need to find my family reunion pics.....you don't want to miss this one;)

A Day At the Pool

2008-07-14T16:04:00.001-07:00

Last week some girls from the ward decided to do something a little different from the "Cherry Hill" pool get togethers......we tried out a different pool. ( We can get WAY creative in the summer) Lindsey's mom was nice enough to let us use her pool for the day ( I don't know if she knew we used it or not, but thanks Linz's mama!)

Addy loved every minute.....she got to play with all of her neighborhood pals and spent most of her time in the playroom I could only dream of playing in as a kid. She didn't get much sun, but who needs it when you can be hanging out with all the play kitchen sets and barbies imagined!!!

We should have taken a before and after picture...unfortunatley, we only took the "after"....why is Kelly still so happy?!?!?!

Thanks Lindsey for another fun play date......I had a blast!!!

P.S. Thanks Callie for your mad photography skills...I fill like a celebrity everytime we are together!

2008-07-03T09:54:00.000-07:00

St. George Girls Trip: I love these girls!! Thank you Misty for inviting all of us to your condo for the weekend! Notice there are no kids!!! ( we have 23 all together!!) Who could ask for anythin more! We spent 90% of the time at the pool (I forgot how fun this could actually be without two children strapped to both of my hips) , diet coke runs, shopping, interesting convos............"THE FUUUUUUN HAS ARRIVED"!!!

ABC's...I've been tagged

2008-06-10T08:46:00.000-07:00

A- ATTACHED OR SINGLE: Single...oh wait, Attached. I almost forgot because my hubby comes home at 11 every night for his night bar review class
B- BEST FRIEND: Casey, Addy, Holden ( Holden is a GREAT listener)
C- CAKE OR PIE: Cake....that means it's my birthday...only my favorite holiday ever!!
D- DAY OF CHOICE: Saturday
E- ESSENTIAL ITEM: diapers....I left without them a few times, and Holden was not a happy kid
F- FAVORITE COLOR: grey or kindof a robins egg/turqouise
G- GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT: besides having kids....probably going off on my own and creating Shabby Baby...soon to be Olive and Addy ( I dropped a little secret)
H- HOMETOWN: Idaho Falls..
I- INDULGENCES: shopping.....it can be clothes, groceries...ANYTHING....
J- JANUARY OR JULY: July.....January is depressing becuase I never follow through with my New Year's resolutions
K- KIDS: 2....sometimes I think Addy counts as five kids though....way TOO much energy sometimes
L- LIFE IS INCOMPLETE WITHOUT: .....family
M- MARRIAGE DATE: 3-6-04
N- NUMBER OF SIBLINGS: 1.....I'd like to give a shout out to NIKKKKKOOOOO!
O- ORANGES OR APPLES: oranges....unless there is caramel on the apple
P- PHOBIAS OR FEARS: snakes...almost moved out of our new house b/c there was one in our front yard last week
Q- QUOTES: rock on tampon....okay I'm not really a quote person
R- REASON TO SMILE: Addy and Holden, or Pepsi
S- SEASON: summer
T- TAG FIVE FRIENDS: Lindsey, Kelly, Teigan ( does that mean you have to do it twice), Amber, Summer
U- UNKNOWN FACT ABOUT ME: ( look at I).....I love to go to a store and fill up a cart and then put it all back....it gives me some weird pleasure to think I am buying all of it, and then another weird pleasure to think I have self control not to buy it all
V- VERY FAVORITE STORE: Nordstroms
W- WORST HABIT: Addy says I pick my nose
X- X-RAY OR ULTRASOUND: right now...an xray....I hope I don't have an ultrasound for another four years
Y- YOUR FAVORITE FOOD: Mexican....americanized
Z-YOUR ZODIAC SIGN: Virgo

This weekend.....

2008-06-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

We had an extrememly eventful weekend with the kids. First, TREVI came to Utah and got to spend the night with Addy. It was so fun for Addy to stay up until midnight ( sorry Taya :) ) watching Little Mermaid and sleep with cousin Trevi. Trevi has the funnest personality, so it was never a dull moment whilie she was here. Thanks Trevi for staying with us!

After playing with Trevi, Addy went straight over to have a sleepover with her other cousin Sawyer while Casey and I went to Park City for the night. ( Casey had a work thing, so we decided to make a one day trip out of it). We then picked up Addy the following morning to take her to a dance recital. She was our shining star! I've been going to dance with her every Tuesday, and can't even remember the dances she is taught....how does she do it?!?! Her and her little dancing friends were the cutest, funniest little girls ever and had no problems being up on the stage.

Next, golf. Casey decided after the recital that he wanted his kids to be golfers....so we headed out to the golfing range. Addy brought her plastic clubs and Casey taught her how to hold the club, how to stand, how to watch the ball, how to shoot.....I think we all got confused with every detail of golf he thought we needed to know. Casey did a great job, Addy started to catch on, and I ...need more lessons....but we all had tons of fun...even Holden ( even if he just sucked on clubs the whole time).

Bummer.....

2008-05-26T20:42:00.000-07:00

After two months of religously trying to teach Holden to say "mama", he babbled the dreaded word..."dada". Casey is loving that Holden said this first, and loving even more that Holden knows he can get a rise out of me for saying it. As soon as he wakes up he tells me "dada....dada" and just laughs. Holden....you are now a stinker.

P.S. I still love you

Kudoos and Hello Mickey!!!

2008-05-16T19:14:00.000-07:00

This picture ( especially the robe) signifies the longest three years of our lives. Needless to say Casey has FINALLYYYYY graduated law school and has become an official grown up!!! We are so excited and proud of all of his hard work...we are so proud of you!!! His family and mine ( thanks mom and dad for the longest drive ever at the wee morning of the hours) came to celebrate this special day with us!!!!

Now to the fun stuff: the day after!!! Casey's parents rewarded us ( because if he is in law school we basically all are) with a trip to Disneyland!!!!! Addy LOVED it, and was able to bring her best friend and cousin Sawyer along to enjoy all the princesses with her ( he of course was a bigger fan of the pirates) These are the only two kids that can spend a full week together and still love each other...it was great...thank you Sawyer for coming with us!!

Sawyer and Addy loved all the characters....this was a huge relief to us. ( See the April blog with Addy's tramatic experience with the Easter bunny. ) The first day was spent running around trying to find Mickey and the princesses. At the end of the first day we asked the kids what their favorite part of Disneyland was. Sawyer of course loved the pirates ride, and Addy just smiled and said, " I loved Ariel, even though she wasn't there..." Ughh....a full day of meeting everyone, and Addy noticed we missed ONE character....you can probably figure out what we did the whole second day.And, who said Holden was too young to enjoy the experience?!?!? This kiddo seemed to understand everything that was going on....I don't think he made a peep. No crying, whinning, nothing. He loved just sitting in his stroller and watching everything!!!!

And of course, who goes to Californina without going to San Diego?!?!? Addy went here and picked up seashells the ENTIRE time.... most children pick up the best and biggest.. Not Addy! We had a bag full of every shell ( I know this is frowned upon) she saw on the entire ocean.....at the end of the day she said she loved that Disneyland better ( sorry Mickey Addy likes the ocean ride the best!!!) Oh nooo...we didn't stop there. We couldn't leave without hanging out with LC and the Laguna crew..( okay we only went to her hometown) ...Laguna and all of OC is our newest vacation home dream spot. Sorry Lc maybe we will meet ya next time

This picture explains it all!! At the end of the week Sawyer and Addy were dead...asleep. This is the first time I think I have ever had Addy crashed before me....victory is mine!!! Thank you Russ and Debbie for such a wonderful and overly due vacation!!!! We loved every minute of it!

Milestones

2008-05-07T15:43:00.001-07:00

BEWARE: IF YOU HATE BRAG BLOGGING DO NOT READ FURTHER!

My little Holden has finally reached a few milestones in his life. As of a couple weeks ago, all I thought he could do is lay down, smile, and laugh when we played peek-a-boo. NOW, I feel like my baby is finally growing up...well kindof. Holden decided to finally grow teeth ( three of them in fact), eat crackers, sit, and crawl ( okay, army crawl but it's all the same). He's still maintained his cool collective self while enduring all these ( especially the teeth) We're all so proud of you little guy!

"i'z all growed up!"

2008-04-21T20:49:00.001-07:00

I can't believe our little Addy is ALREADY three! She is so excited to be "all growed up" and finally as old as her older cousins Sawyer and Trevi! We celebrated with family on Sunday and she gets to have her first friend party this year on Wednesday.

Addy was so excited to have her family with her to celebrate this HUGE day with her. Both sets of grandparents were able to come....even Granpda Bud ( she's been asking him to come to her party since December!!!)

She, of course, was the life of the party .....and KNEW it..... we love you Addy bugs...Happy Birthday!

My Favorite things about Addy:

1. I lovc that every time we go grocery shopping she pretends she has to go to the bathroom just so we can look at the toys ....( I secretly love looking at them too.)
2. She loves to dress up.....it's great because I love to dress people up, so it works.
3. She tells me when she is tired and wants to take a nap....I know this is random, but so far she is the only 3 year old I know that will admit that they need to sleep
4. Before daddy leaves for school she MAKES him give me a hug and kiss....love it!
5. I love that she is the messiest eatter ever. ( I used to be the messiest, so she kindof takes the attention off me when it comes to food now!)
6. She always tells me I'm her best friend.....even if it's right before she is about to ask for something
7. She wakes up with a smile on her face ready to conquer the world....it's very motivating in a I'm tired leave me alone kindof way?!?!
8. She's easy to please....give her a sucker and she'll love you forever
9. She's quick to forget.....I hate hate hate getting mad at her ( those that know me best know that I am the biggest pushover when it comes to my kids)....so if I do have to get mad, she forgets in seconds ( that sometimes works against me though too)
10. She's a wonderful influence to our family....when we pray she tells us we have to get on our knees, she sings the clean up song to me when I am cleaning up after her ( it puts me in a better mood somehow!?!?) and can outbeat anyone when it comes to praying.....she's thankful for EVERYTHING and EVERYONE. Above all, she is always letting everyone know she loves them and is the most empathetic...3....year old I know; she is the first to notice when someone is sad and the first to go over to them and offer them a hug and kiss!

"Dinkin Flicka!"

2008-04-16T22:09:00.000-07:00

The Office is FINALLY back!!! To celebrate this wonderful day, we met up with the Bensons' and Wangalastros' for our season ritual..."The Pie" pizza and some comic relief!!!

Thank you Michael, Dwight, and the Office gang for bringing joy back into our Thursday nights....."that's what she said"!

P.S. Thanks for letting me borrow your pic Teigan....and Casey left Taylor his really cool denim jacket because he knew he wanted to borrow it.

For Casey's Reading Pleasure

2008-04-06T20:35:00.001-07:00

I got my first tag....and then a second one the day after ( Francesca...I promise to do it sometime this week)....I figured talking about my husand would be a little more fun for me tonight....
1. What is your husband's name? Casey William Jones.....he thinks it's the coolest thing to be named after the baseball player that struckout at the world series, a train driver, and a character in the ninja turtles. He loves it so much he wanted our first boy to be named Indiana....Jones. It was a fight all the way to the delivery room. Holden will thank me one day.

2.Who eats more? Casey

3. Who said I love you first? Hmmm...Casey swears I said it first, but I don't believe him. I fell asleep at the pool and he said I told him I loved him while I was sleeping....I've been known to talk in my sleep, but YEA RIGHT Casey, it was totally YOU!

4. Who is taller? Casey, although I am 5'6" I am considered a midget on the Jones side

5. Who is smarter? We just had this discussion....unfortuately Casey is street smart and book smart, I'm only book smart

6. Who is more sensitive? me..

7. Who does the laundry? Casey thinks it is him, but his idea of doing laundry is taking the clothes out of the dryer and dumping the clothes on the bed for me to fold....definetely me.

8. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Casey....it's the closest to the door next to our mini wooden bat and a machete in case an intruder comes. Beware.

9. Who pays the bills? (cough) Casey...he takes pride in his credit score

10. Who cooks more? Me. Casey has cooked a few times though....but that's why I always cook.

11. What meals do you cook together? See question 10.....he's better off paying the bills:) I love you Casey

12. Who is more stubborn? Me, Stubborn?!?!?! Okay, it's me.....he's pretty stubborn though too.

13. Who is the first to admit it when they are wrong? I'm never wrong ( Question 11)....so it would have to be Casey

14. Who is more clean? Me, but on Casey's behalf he has a really clean mom that always picked up after him, so he grew up thinking he never made a mess....so it's not his fault that he thinks he has a magic fairy following him cleaning up after him.

15. Who has more siblings? Casey. I only have one sis.....hive five Nikko!

16. Who wears the pants in the relationship? Addy....she's 2 going on 20.

17. What do you like to do together? Everything!!! Fortunately I married a shopper! We love to go on family drives, watch movies and Lost and The Office, we love to travel, workout, etc etc...

18. Who eats more sweets? Casey...his work is loaded with every kind of pop imaginable and his boss has an office full of candy jars. Addy thinks he's paid with candy so if he works all day she thinks she's going to get more treats.

19. Guilty pleasures? Casey has great self control.....but I think he likes Pepsi as much as I do. He's always the first to mention an icecream run.....and he likes Taco Time......maybe he doesn't have as much self control as I thought.

20. How did you meet? At the USU HOWL....we both have different interpretations of this.....my side of the story is that he walked up to me when I was dressed up as an angel and gave me the CHEESIEST pick up line ever. I laughed at him, so he walked away.

21. Who asked who out first? Casey, I never asked boys out.

22. Who kissed who first? Casey....

23. Who proposed?Casey......he drove me out to the campsite we always roasted marshmallows at. There we signs that said Will....You...Marry...Me. I never saw them, but luckily that wasn't the end of the proposal. I was invited to our camping spot with roses everywhere, and a fire ( why he left a fire unattended while he was picking me up....I don't know)...he wrote me the cutest poem that I don't really listen to....I was looking around for the hot dogs becuase he said he was taking me out to eat.

24. Best features? Smile, and the prettiest brown eyes with the LONGEST eyelashes ever....thankfully he passed those eyes on to our daughter....he might get mad if I don't mention his arms....I think he REALLY likes his arms.

25. What is his best quality? Casey is the closest thing to my dad in a very uncreepy way. He would do ANYTHING for anybody, and is the cutest father to our two kids. He is very romantic, and did I mention he loves to shop....?!?!?

I tag Malissa, Andrea, Francesca ( haha sucker, that's what you get for tagging me:) ), Amber, and Taya

{Easter....in an eggshell}

2008-03-24T21:06:00.001-07:00

Easter was so much fun this year. Addy was able to get the grasp of things this year, and Holden was, well, Holden ( happy as ever!) We started off our Easter weekend at Casey's sister's house on Saturday morning. She planned this HUGE neighborhood easter egg hunt and brunch...nearly 200 people showed up.....inlcuding the Easter Bunny (Nicole talked my husband into it, and he got a lot of chester molester jokes that day!)

Addy H-A-T-E-D the Easter Bunny. Casey took off the head to show it was only him, but she was not tricked.....she KNEW the Easter Bunny was trying to pretend he was her daddy. ( She kept yelling, " Stop talking to me. You try to trick me..you not my dad you the Easter Bunny!!") She held onto me for well over an hour shaking, and wouldn't let me put her down until that crazy bunny was out of sight. ( We decided not to put her Easter basket by her bed that night. Instead, we put it clear in another room, so it wouldn't freak her out that the Easter Bunny got too close to her while she was sleeping). She's still tramatized about it.

We spent Easter with Casey's family, and everyone had such a fun time. We had a toy hunt for the kids that day, and another WONDERFUL dinner by Debbie. We are so thankful for this time of year and for what Easter is REALLY all about.

{Happy Half Birthday!!!}

2008-03-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Holden is ALREADY 6 months old. He has been such a blessing in our lives, and I can't imagine not having him in our family. He is our happy little guy that can put a smile on ANYONE'S face guaranteed!!! Here's a tribute to our "lil' bud":

1. He wins the happiest baby award hands down

2. He will laugh at/with you....so he makes us feel good about ourselves when we do something the least bit funny.

3. He loves his sister more than anything....he could watch her for hours and will still be entertained.

4. Cutest big blue eyes!! ....He's already learned to flirt with them

5. He's a cuddler...if you hold him, he'll love you and give you the cutest, sloppiest kisses ever!

and number 6......

6. He's a sleeper ( what mom wouldn't love that!)

So even though he may not be sitting up, crawling, or even walking like his sister was at about this age....he still wins the cutest, happiest, funnest baby award! We love you Holden and are so HAPPY you are with US!