Life in the Leavitt Lane

Thanksgiving at the Cabin

2012-01-13T16:25:00.001-08:00

James loves anything that goes...he stayed on the snowmobile if it was going or not...he LOVED it!!!

We all took turns getting our hair done this day!

Logan!

2012-01-13T16:14:00.000-08:00

Since I'm just behind....and I'll have to find a week to catch up...here is the best part of my mornings!

And I have to say that my friend Maxine left (I'm soooo sad) and she needs to see this sweet boy.

Family Photo

2011-11-28T09:46:00.001-08:00

Yes...I am way behind in a lot of things but wanted to post our newest family picture. We are still just loving the new addition in our family...he is so sweet and such a great baby.

In Case you were wondering

2011-11-06T16:30:00.000-08:00

Every day IS NOT perfect. Some days my kids don't get a bath. Other days they get three.
Jenna had told me the day before that the dirt she was putting in her hair and James' was so they could fly! Well I hope he flew a lot this day!
James had already had a bath...was ready for bed but decided to have a quick dip.

And this was the end of the day.

Precious Logan

2011-11-06T16:26:00.000-08:00

Day of Blessings and Joy

2011-11-06T16:03:00.001-08:00

What a great day! I even made it through without crying! I love my sweet little kids and the wonderful spirit they bring into my life. Even after hard days I can say I am grateful to have the family that I do. I have a fabulous husband who loves in spite of all my shortcomings and treats me with more love and respect than I deserve. We have been so blessed and I am grateful to my Heavenly Father every day for these four special blessings.

More Pictures

2011-10-26T13:21:00.001-07:00

Need a smile?

2011-10-26T13:07:00.000-07:00

Don't you feel better now?

Sweet Baby Logan

2011-10-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

Well...its been a bit too long but at least I'm trying to catch up now! Here is our sweet baby. Born September 22, 2011 at 1:21. 9lbs 3oz and19" long. What a lug!

Proud dad! I think Scott was so happy to have another boy!!!

We had a few extra days at the hospital because Logan had some fluid on his lungs. It was super weird to be in my room without my baby. Kind of depressing but I'm glad he got the care he needed. We really did have great doctors and nurses and help while we were there. I'm so grateful! Scott didn't leave my side for more than an hour here and there to go get normal food. He slept on the really nice plastic couches they offer to dads. Not one complaint from him!

At the Lake

2011-07-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

Eliza waiting for someone willing to take her out on the boat.

James was happy being on anything with a motor...

...even if it was a little canoe with an electric motor.

The frog

2011-07-23T16:27:00.000-07:00

Every year we torture the nature around us...in years past it has been fish only...this year someone was so nice as to donate the frog. Thankfully Uncle David "accidentally" tipped over the jug at some prime moment and the frog was saved to be a prince to someone else. Jenna took it pretty well!

This is Jenna with her cousin Michelle.

2011 Hill Family Reunion...On the farm

2011-07-23T16:23:00.001-07:00

Who knows how many posts will come of this but I thought I'd start with a few cute pictures... Enjoy!

On the Boat...

2011-07-08T14:46:00.001-07:00

James, the little cheese ball! He was such a good boy to be on the boat!
This is how Eliza did most of her fishing...looks comfy huh?
Grandpa hanging with the kids!

Eliza's Fish

2011-07-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we were able to go camping with Grandpa Jim and Granny Lee at Panguitch lake in Utah. We had a great time. Eliza and Jenna got a new fishing pole from Grandpa and were so excited to fish. The girls and James were great out on the boats on Saturday. Eliza was able to catch her first fish too! Except, it didn't make it in the net. It was a whopper but broke the line before it was netted.

Monday morning we went out again to try and resolve that problem. Eliza scored again! The minute I could see the fish in the water I started taking pictures but here it is in all its glory! Almost 19 inches of cut throat trout.Unfortunately that is exactly the wrong size cut throat and we had to put it back...so with the excitement of catching this nice fish we had the tears and anguish of releasing it back into the lake.

Date Night...pretty much

2011-04-30T16:12:00.000-07:00

Scott and I got out for a date last night. Finally using a gift certificate to a restaurant we've had since Christmas! After dinner we tried going to a movie but it was sold out so were heading to another destination when we get a phone call from the mom of the babysitter...never a very good sign.

Apparently James was stuck in the chair...can we cut it off? Ummmm....well, we'll come home and check it out. Sorry the picture isn't so good but it was moments before Scott had to cut the chair and James had been stuck for about 30 minutes.

Let me explain what you are looking at. Basically he is wearing the chair like a backpack. His head and arms are stuck between the rung (between the two front legs-he arms are right over the rung) and the bottom of the chair. He was so exhausted by the time we got home all he wanted to do was sleep, with or without the chair attached.

The boy James

2011-04-30T16:05:00.000-07:00

James is always good for a laugh...he loves to be silly...he loves to play and he loves to try new things. Here are some of the most recent pictures of James.
James is very particular about his clothes...he has to be wearing shorts of his choosing. Lately it is these shorts...swimming shorts or his basketball shorts which he can find just about anywhere. He's like my sister and chocolate...if its in the house he can find it. Freshly folded and on the shelf, in the dirty laundry...makes to difference to him. Anyway he changes at least a couple times a day.
His other favorite thing is to be like dad...here he is wearing his dads basketball shorts. Perhaps this is the true inspiration for the others.

One more Dance

2011-03-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Here are the older girls in their traditional competition dresses. They are really fun to watch.

How we spent March

2011-03-25T15:37:00.000-07:00

Ok, this is my first attempt to put in a video...

We spent a few days and nights watching Eliza dance this last month. Honestly the cutest thing ever. She loves to be dancing, on stage and with the other girls. The big girls are so sweet to these little dancers and just a positive influence. Over all I have been super impressed by the quality of people in this small "Irish" dance community. So fun.

First Dance

She is third from the left and very cute.

Here she is second from left but a little hard to follow because she gets behind some other girls. She does take a little spill, stands up and finishes her dance! What a girl!

Second Dance

This is my favorite dance with the older girls. They are awesome and just have fun on stage.

Some things....

2011-03-21T09:05:00.001-07:00

Well, if I was all caught up and on the ball you'd have a picture with each blog. But just be grateful for what you get these days. Between getting Eliza to all her Irish dancing, filing my taxes and trying to keep up the cleaning after James...most days I'm just happy to be alive.

Eliza has had a great month of dancing. I'm hoping to figure out how to get the video to come across from Scott's phone. She came home from her performance on Saturday night, which was to a senior residence, and said "mom, they LOVED me!" She was so happy. Scott said the crowd was totally into it and enjoyed the show.

James is a walking disaster area. He is a quiet kid but when he wants something he starts bellowing my name. If I don't hear it frequently enough I know he's up to no good. Last week he covered the bathroom with a nice layer of bubble gum toothpaste. He had the help of Jenna who just stood there surrounded by the sticky stuff and said "James did it". Ya, sure. This morning while I was showering he covered the kitchen counters and one cabinet in butter. That's my favorite to clean! Then while I had my back turned he poured the last few ounces of a water bottle on the book shelf. OF COURSE IT HAD BOOKS ON IT!!!

So we begin a new week doing the same things I did last week...avoiding cleaning until it is totally destroyed (because that may be just a few minutes away) starting laundry that I don't ever want to finish putting away and playing with the kids. Life is good.

Who is this cute boy?

2011-02-23T15:29:00.000-08:00

Adorable right? Yes this is Scott and his older sister...He just wanted to make sure someone looked like him... What do you think?

For the love of...

2011-02-11T16:39:00.000-08:00

PICKLES!!!

Duct tape to the rescue

2011-02-11T16:38:00.000-08:00

Ever have one of these days?

Who dressed you?

2011-02-11T16:36:00.000-08:00

Yes...this was as we were walking out the door and we were seen in public with her. Good thing she's so cute though!

Who is this?

2011-02-11T16:33:00.001-08:00

This is my mom at 8 years old.
This is Eliza at 6 1/2.
I think the genes skipped a generation!

Elizas First Performance

2011-02-01T10:28:00.000-08:00

Ok...the video isn't great but hopefully you can see her. She is the last little group that comes forward and has no clue what is going on or how to get off the stage.

Watch out baby!

2010-12-21T15:11:00.000-08:00

I've been waiting almost 2 years for James to wear this suit! Oh my...ADORABLE!!

Just so you know

2010-12-21T10:16:00.001-08:00

Isn't he awesome! I had a weak moment and thought he could handle the pudding...whatever.

Where have we been?

2010-12-21T10:13:00.000-08:00

Well, life has been a little busy and actually right now...yes, the week before Christmas, I am less busy than I have been in months. Partly due to the lack of a computer for 2 months and moving right after that I have not been able to post anything. But, as of today I have a functional computer, internet that actually works and time to sit and stare at the screen! Wahoo!!

I just downloaded all my pictures onto my "new" computer so hopefully I'll be able to do cliff notes of the past couple of months and catch up on our lie a bit. I know you all have missed me something terrible so ease your mind...I'M BACK!

Life is Great!

2010-08-18T18:18:00.000-07:00

I've just been reminded over and over today how good life is. I have been pondering things, enjoying my day to day with my kids a lot more and enjoying the little things they do...even if it usually means more work for me later. I am so happy to have the sweet family that I do. I love the learning process with each one of them. I enjoy the stages and ages that they are each at. I love my day to day interaction with my kids. I am so blessed to be able to be home with them every day. What a gift in my life!

A Day on the Farm

2010-08-11T08:06:00.000-07:00

Here we are on our way to do a little yard work...yup, the whole gang came along to "help".

The Many faces of Bridger!

Here is our actual destination...clean up the newly cut grass so the Young Women's camp can have a nice place to spend the week...It is a beautiful place to camp down by the river!

James...not so interested in the dead grass...just the motorized stuff!

And just because he gets cuter by the day you get to see him again.

The Jenna Boo...

2010-08-11T07:53:00.000-07:00

Jenna spent hours out running around. I tried to make sure she was lathered in sun screen before she left for the day because I had no idea how long she would stay out.

Here she is sporting the Princess Diana look...totally happy, soaking wet. (Note the potato field in the background...this will come in handy in a later post.) This is where I usually found Jenna in the mornings. We finally got her out of the cages but she was usually with the bunnies for several hours every day.

Who me, get out? I'm not supposed to be in here?

Since I can climb in that way, I'll try this way!

After a full day being outside, two changes of clothes and plenty of mosquito bites...

This is one happy little girl who must be a farm girl at heart.

Foust Farm-the BIRD story

2010-08-10T19:13:00.000-07:00

Sunday, after attending church with Grandma and Grandpa, we headed over to the farm. One little chore that couldn't wait another day was to put the newly hatched pheasants out in a bigger incubator. With all this help, I have no idea how Kath kept track of how many there were...she tried to count them.

My, oh my, the girls were happy...I was a bit scared Jenna was going to squish one to death but she was quite good at simply holding the little thing. They are soooooo cute and soft its hard to resist!

The problem is, they have to be really warm so had to go back home...Aunt Kathryn was the meanie who told Jenna...

I'm such a good mom...I just sat there and snapped pictures of this sad little face.

Okay, okay, Aunt Kathryn is a softie and said she could hold it for a minute longer...oh, the joy!!!

But no, really this one needs to warm up...the time had come....

Ya...I'm such a good mom...can you tell I'm trying to console her and comfort her...(click, click, click)

Aunt Kathryn let her have a different bird...we could rotate them all night and let her be happy.

At this point let me tell you the story of Eliza's little bird...she had one to start with as well. She also had to give it up for a newer, warmer bird. As she got her new bird her sweet cousin Bridger said "watch out, its going to poop on you." Unfortunately, the bird had just had a drink and had water on its mouth. Eliza freaked, thinking it had peed on her and dropped it on the ground. Before anyone could react their dog, Diesel, snatched it up. It was so fast and sad. He carried it around for quite some time before coming over and dropping it and then eating it. We had to relive the horrible scene all over again. Poor Eliza kept saying "Bridger made me do it!" So sad.

Here is the true farmer. Everett Foust is my brother in laws dad. He has been here on the farm forever. He is in his 80's and spends as much time out working in the sun as anyone else. It is really what he loves! He is the sweetest most kind man. I just love being around him.

Welcom Back to the Cabin

2010-08-10T18:46:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the long delay...I hope you weren't holding your breath...just kidding.

We have arrived back at the cabin after our little visit to the farm. This is where my parents currently reside and where we like to play. They bought this piece of property 20 years ago and over the span of a few years were able to build the main part of the cabin. The building on the right is actually their garage which was added once they decided to live up here full time. The winters deserve a garage. Here are the Foust kids...out with the two kayaks roped together. Those two girls got a workout that day!!!

Little James could not find room in his mouth for his tongue...I have a dozen pictures of him doing various things with his tongue hanging out. Cute boy!

James was content to sit on the grass in the kayak.

Jenna wanted to go for a real ride...of course...

Grandpa needed a bit o help to fix that seat for the canoe. The canoes haven't gotten as much use since the purchase of the kayaks...much easier to take out when you are little.

Jenna's kayak ride...thanks MacKenzie!

Grandma...well, being grandma! Cotton candy anyone? Really after selling this for a few summers down at the local pool this stuff almost makes me gag. Actually I like a small amount and then I'm done...the grandkids LOVE LOVE LOVE this!

can you tell?

Here's my sugar girl.

The lake is for playing and making memories. We had so much fun spending hours playing in the water...it was absolutely wonderful!

Back to the Lake

2010-08-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

For all my adoring fans who have been wondering where I grew up...here it is...the famous Locust home. Isn't it cute?

There is a park about a block away from the house that I love to visit...I had a couple hours without the kids so went for a walk to try out my new camera. Welcome to Greenough Park. Many hours were spent in the water trying to catch minnows with my friend Sarah...I still can't imagine letting my kids go down and do what we did.

My sister let me take her kids to the lake with me for a few days...which was just a blast! The kids had so much fun playing together.

This is Eliza jumping into the lake for the first time...

Jenna just liked to drink the lake water...she survived but that was gross.

Glacier Park

2010-08-10T09:06:00.000-07:00

I'm just a little in love with this little man. Before we left for the day he was outside checking out the farm and enjoying the sunny weather which had finally come. Madison, my niece, watched all three kids ALL day for me! She is an angel. Lots of pictures here...not too much to say except that Glacier is beautiful and this year especially with all the rain and cool weather. I was also able to start using my new camera that Scott got me for graduation....I know what some of you are thinking "but you didn't graduate, he did"...oh yes I did...I graduated from having survived without him for years. It's so nice to have him around. Sorry, totally side tracked...enjoy the pictures.

Lake McDonald

Here's a chance to check out my new telephoto...see that waterfall across the way...

Pretty awesome huh?

This is my favorite view of the valley...I can just imagine how the glacier slowly carved its way through the rock. Can't you see it?

These are my favorite colors...I'd decorate my house in colors like this if I knew how. They are much better in person, but I tried to capture it so I could remember.

Our Time with Maxine

2010-08-10T08:51:00.000-07:00

This is my sweet neighbor Maxine. She sacrificed a week to come and help me on the drive...by the time we got to Montana we both realized we hadn't packed enough WARM clothes. It was cold the first week we were there...high's in the low 60's...basically winter for us. She was a trooper though and layered up with every article of clothing she had. Eliza was able to help Grandma make cookies...because thta is what Grandma does!Due to the bad weather we didn't stay at the lake like we had planned but headed over to my sisters farm to spend a day there before we headed to Glacier in hopes that the weather would clear and we'd be able to see the mountains.

This is a view across one of the fields on the farm.We headed down to the river but I hadn't brought any swimming stuff for the kids...oh well, it was all fun except Jenna was eaten by mosquitos...only the beginning though.

Bridger and Eliza tried to stay warm.

Let us Begin...

2010-08-09T13:36:00.000-07:00

The drive was thankfully uneventful to Salt Lake, July 2. I was so grateful to have Maxine in the car who took care of James and throwing down all of his toys one at a time and changing DVD's for the girls. We made it to my Bryce's house in the afternoon and the kids were able to get out of the car and run wild with the cousins. We were even there to welcome Finley home...the girls were SOOOO happy to see a new baby. Kind of makes our baby look like a giant!

Next we headed to Temple Square...it really has changed quite a bit since I was there. The South Visitor center is so nice now and has a beautiful display about the temple. The Tabernacle has had new staircases put in and rows removed so people can walk more freely...looks like it has always been like that. It was wonderful to be back. The grounds were beautiful, as usual, and the sisters were so sweet.

We spent the night with our friends, the Hubrichs, just north of Salt Lake. It was so fun to catch up with them...to see Sean just before he left on a mission and to see Katelyn who just got home from hers.

Saturday was another fun day of travel. We now had Grandma with us to help with the kids, so the car was full and happy. We drove straight into Missoula for a quick bite to eat with family and then to a baseball game where our nephew/cousin was celebrating his 8th birthday. He even got to pitch the first ball!

This is him just after he threw the ball. He was soooo cute! Happy Birthday Boston!

I'm Back

2010-08-07T18:03:00.000-07:00

I know you have been wondering where I have been...but I am back! I've got TONS of picture to share and don't want to get started on blogging until I download those. That is next on the agenda so hopefully soon I can start updating. Oh, we had a great trip! So much fun in Montana.

Breakfast

2010-06-22T12:46:00.000-07:00

Could you be any more relaxed?

For No Good Reason

2010-06-22T12:45:00.000-07:00

Except that he loves me! What a man!

Brian Head Utah

2010-06-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

We went up to Brian Head and spent a nice long weekend since I totally messed up Memorial Day! I thought I was being soooo cool and getting my reservations done in March for Memorial day camping at Zion National Park. I checked dates...reserved three nights, since it was the long weekend...only to find out that I had reserved them for the week BEFORE memorial day. I was so good to give this to Scott for his birthday present....no present for him. So, Dix and Kaleen said we could go use the cabin. Oh, it was BEAUTIFUL!Can't tell you how much fun James had just walking up and down this road...he thought he was such a big boy.Jenna and her bugs! She likes to kill them, put them on her hand and bring them to me. It's like a cat with a dead mouse...

Like always we owe the Jarmans for such a wonderful weekend...really, if we didn't have such good friends we'd never get out of the valley!

Eliza's Kindergarten Program

2010-06-22T12:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am a bit behind with this...actually the whole month of May went very fast and June is even worse so I'm really behind. So, at least you get this. Eliza's class puts on this cute program. She even got to hold the world. She was darn cute!
Eliza had such a sweet teacher all year. I was able to go and work in the classroom once a week and got to know her. I am amazed by teachers even more! What a sweet lady.

Dad thought this was cute.

2010-06-22T12:29:00.001-07:00

So did mom.

Sister Kallon...AGAIN!

2010-06-22T12:26:00.000-07:00

Once again I got to see Sister Kallon! What a fun day with her. We listened to her speak to the Lakes Stake Relief Society. After they had rooms and rooms of projects for the sisters to work on. I was able to be with her during the afternoon and take her shopping and drop her off at the airport. She has a wonderful way of making everything in life sound manageable and easy. She is a true inspiration!

My friend Sandra, me, Sister Kallon, her friend who lives here.

Happiness...

2010-05-26T07:48:00.000-07:00

This morning has been so darn pleasant...I think this is the last week of spring here but May really has been quite delightful. A bit windy here and there but the AC has been on for just a couple of days this whole month! Last year I remember trying to hold out until May to turn it on and I didn't make it by a day or two. So, soon I will bid farewell to my low power bill.

Scott has started his diet and exercise program. Last night as he was upstairs working out it sounded like the ceiling was going to crash down on me. But, at least he's doing it! He is still trying to sell me on joining him but I have no desire to work out the hour before I go to bed. I prefer mornings...when I actually get up...which brings me to this morning. I actually did get up and go running. Not too long or hard but I got up! Made such a difference in my morning. The kids seem more pleasant I was ready to go earlier. I actually had time to make beds and tidy up upstairs. Now everyone is enjoying breakfast. I don't know if they had a good sleep as well but perhaps it has just been me waking up grumpy that makes the whole day seem bad.

California!

2010-05-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

I need to write about our incredible vacation. Scott and I were able to go to Oceanside for 3 days with no kids. Never happened before. We got there late Thursday night. It was so weird to not worry about driving with kids in the car and having to get there before bedtime. It didn't matter! So, I don't have too much to say about it because we really had a weekend full of doing NOTHING! It was fabulous. What a joy to wake up not because of kids. I think that was what I was looking forward to the most. Also worth mentioning is the fact that I didn't cook all weekend! We ate out and went to a farmers market. I think the market was my favorite part! We got fresh fruits and veggies and some yummy bread. We stopped at a grocery store on the way home, picked up some meat and made sandwiches and salad for lunch. I think it was the best sandwich I've ever had. The salad actually had flavor! The carrots still had dirt on them when we picked them up. The strawberries were so good we stopped later and got a whole flat so I could make some jelly. Just incredible.
We did eat out at a very nice fish place. I had to make sure it was nice because I'm not a huge fish fan and if I'm going to eat it I want it to be good. Oh, my, was it ever! I had this macadamia nut crusted halibut. And the BBQ'd artichoke appetizer was perfect too. We wandered around, went shopping, saw two movies, had breakfast at a local diner, sat on the beach (it was too cold for swimming...at least for me), rode bikes around like tourists, ate coldstone ice cream and watched movies in bed. It was a perfect weekend.

I guess even better than the farmers market was that Scott and I never did anything apart. We were within eyesight of each other all weekend. He is so sweet and wonderful and getting to spend some time with him is heaven.

My Jenna

2010-05-20T15:41:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that Jenna is quite the handful...somedays I can't keep ahead of her...actually that is most days. But then I found her like this one afternoon. I had to remember the moment. I'm thinking of making a shirt for her to wear so I don't forget how adorable she is when she's asleep...a total angel!

My Handsome Boy

2010-05-20T15:39:00.001-07:00

I mean seriously...do they get any cuter than this?

Mother's Day Tea

2010-05-20T15:37:00.000-07:00

Eliza's school did Mother's Day tea...it was way cute. The kids were all so excited to be with their moms and to serve them! Jenna was happy to be there too.

I don't know what to say about these...Jenna is just funny.

Graduation!!!

2010-05-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

Here Scott is!! Due to my spectacular telephoto lens this is the best I got! We were lucky enough to be about parallel with him on the correct side of the arena. Not bad for never knowing where you should sit. Jim, LeeAnne, Loraine and Daniel were all there for the graduation. What a great family!

Here are our little munchins. Had to redress for this since they were at the babysitters! Thank goodness! That was a 4 hour ordeal. Even though our seats were good we were right under the AC unit and thought I was going to freeze to death! Serious cold.

Boring!

2010-05-06T15:55:00.000-07:00

I'd like to say that today I really celebrated that we are done with school...I guess if you call cleaning the three toilets and bathrooms celebrating then BOY did I ever! However parts of my room look better but still there is this underlying grossness around me, and very little desire to do anythig about it. Instead I cuddled with the girls on the couch and let the answering machine get the phone.

We Made It!!!

2010-05-06T07:06:00.001-07:00

Scott took his last final last night. The kids and I were at a friends' Court of Honor so he joined us through. When I saw him walking through the door it was like heaven. I was so proud of him and excited to have him home and happy and wanted to tackle him and plant a big kiss on him and scream and shout! I didn't do any of those things but probably will this weekend after graduation! What a man - and he's all mine!

Eliza's Award

2010-05-05T15:19:00.001-07:00

Eliza was Student of the Month for her class. We went to the assembly. She was so cute and so happy to be up on stage. Here she is with her pincipal...Mrs. Alamshaw.

(note: James' hair...this was Thursday morning.)

My baby boy

2010-05-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

I went to a RS meeting last Thursday and left the kids in the care of dad...I came home to this...

He is still mine...but it has taken me almost a week to get used to the hair being gone. Perhaps its because he looks so much like this...

Same little buzz cut as my two oldest brothers...I actually think the cheeks look a bit more like David (darker hair) but with blue eyes. He is a keeper though! Dad did a great job!

Just a Few things...

2010-05-05T14:55:00.000-07:00

I've been a little more than obsessed with a new website...
http://nieniedialogues.blogspot.com/
makes me feel so blessed and so happy to be who I am but really, she was like this all before her accident. What a sweet story. I've only started reading it but can't get enough of it. So, if you call and ask what I'm doing, I'll probably be reading this blog.

Also...today is Scott's LAST FINAL!!! I can hardly believe it! What a man! He made it through working full time and having a family and a very needy wife! We have graduation on Saturday. I can hardly believe it is over. I'm sure we'll fill the time with other things but really this is HUGE!!!

I'm so looking forward to next weekend away...I'm totally nervous to leave the kids but I know they will be in great hands.

I have a lot of little posts to do but my mind is soooooo wandering today...and really all I want to do is take a nap. Perhaps that is because I was up for hours last night with one cute little boy who had a fever.

Fun in the Snow!

2010-04-06T17:19:00.000-07:00

This is a weekend we look forward to every year! We head up to Brian Head Utah an play in the snow! It's a blast. This year there was just a little snow.One of the best parts is that Scott gets to be around ALL day! The kids just love having dad around! James sat like this for a good 10 minutes. I don't know who loved it more, dad or James.

Isn't she so cute an innocent? Ummm....

Yup, just standing outside the window teasing her brother!

Now we are ready to go play in the snow...aren't they cute girls

James was totally content to sit for quite a while.

After all that coldness the best part is the hot chocolate.Easter morning was so fun! We were a little shocked the bunny knew where to find us.

Bellies

2010-03-25T17:15:00.000-07:00

James is so content. That is the best word to describe him...I think. He is also very quiet but I never worry about what he is doing because he is just a good happy baby. Today I didn't hear him for a while and then heard the sweetest sound...giggling. I went into the living room to see him standing next to the couch, holding his shirt up, tickling himself. I couldn't help but laugh. He is too funny. I then had to tickle him for a good 5 minutes which he loved. He is a little obsessed with belly buttons right now and loves to peak at anyone who will let him. I think it is adorable!

Priceless Moment

2010-03-24T16:13:00.000-07:00

I don't even know where to start with this story, because it goes back so far...almost 10 years!

Saturday, March 20, I had a glorious experience. I was able to go and see a sister that I served with while on my mission, Sister Kallon (in yellow). She has a beautiful testimony of the gospel and of the need for humanitarian help around the world. She travels frequently and shares her story to inspire people. Her story has also been published in the New Era

http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=7d5a35c4ceeae010VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=024644f8f206c010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD

It is much better if you can just read it rather than me retelling it! It was just a fabulous reunion with a friend who has truly changed my life for the good!

I was able to go with my friend Maxine, who also enjoyed the presentation. I'm glad I'm not the only one who likes things like this! After listening to Mariama Kallon you go home and just want to give all you can to help those around you. I wanted to clean out and share, reduce what I had and find ways to serve more. I have so much to work on and don't even know where to start. If you EVER have the chance to hear Mariama it will change your attitude..I promise. She travels around to cities when asked but also is part of Time out For Women and regularly speaks with them. She has a beautiful spirit!

Eliza's Cleaning Ability

2010-03-15T20:43:00.000-07:00

Tonight while Eliza and Jenna were both in time out for the last 10 minutes before bed...

Eliza calls out, "Mom, I cleaned the toilet."
Me, "you cleaned the toilet? With what?"
Eliza, "With a toothbrush." Holding it up...
Me, "You cleaned the toilet with a toothbrush! That is disgusting! You brush your teeth with that!!!"
Eliza, "Oh. It's Jenna's."

My Menu Plan

2010-03-13T14:46:00.000-08:00

Lately I have had a few challenges. I've been working on losing my last few pounds for WW and living on our food storage. It has been quite fun and I have learned a lot. I'm trying to find the balance between spending and saving and what is worth it and what isn't. I have been keeping a journal of the experience but don't know if its worth posting because I don't know that people really want to hear about that. But I can report that in the last 9 weeks I've spent about $300 on food. That includes a HUGE restocking of chicken when it went on sale but does NOT include some long term storage that will last a lifetime...don't know where to put that. Anyway, I don't know what to think about all of it but I am using the things in my house on a more regular basis. I haven't bought bread since the beginning of the year and didn't run out of chicken for 2 full months...

Well, I have wanted to get a better grip on my menu planning. It makes life a bit easier just to know what I need to cook for dinner. It also helps me keep on track better for WW. The better I plan the better I eat! Duh. I have a few obstacles with my menu planning.

I'm lazy

I don't take the time to think things through

It's a pain!

Who knows what I'll have in the house

What if I don't want it that day?

I just have to push past my first obstacle... #2...last week when I sat down to do this I didn't take into consideration certain things like

a) fast Sunday - a simple sandwich isn't going to cut it

b) am I having company this month?

c) are there nights I am too busy to cook and want something SUPER fast

#3...once again - I need to get over this

#4...I realized that I eat a LOT of the same things, especially since I'm living on my food storage and the staples are all the same. Really all my variety comes from veggies. Usually I just buy what's on sale so this is an easy fix too.

#5...I'm able to change the calendar! I don't HAVE to fix what's there! I'm the MOM!!!

Now the freedom of having a calendar!

I have heard of people doing a month at a time...which I have tried but I really do make the same things over and over. This is my solution. I made 7 weeks of meals which can be rotated to suit my mood. At any time I can add a new week... So the "month" calendar has Velcro on the front which my "weeks" stick to. I did spend quite a bit of time making sure that the meals were "balanced" throughout the week.

This was my thought process:

Sundays I cook a bigger meal because Scott is home and I have the time now that church is in the morning.
Monday is quick and super easy because we have dance at night and Scott isn't home. I really cook a lot lighter on nights when he's not home
Tuesday and Wednesday could be interchangeable
Thursday Scott is home for dinner so I put in a bit more effort
Friday we have salad and eat our leftovers. I like my salad night because I weigh in on Saturday morning so it keeps me eating a salad and the family full.
Saturday I like to BBQ since Scott likes to help with dinner.

Then I went through and made sure I didn't have too many "chickens" in a row. We don't eat a lot of red meat so I only put that on once a week. I tried to incorporate a few cheaper meals like soups and potatoes. Now I feel like my weeks are pretty balanced. I'm excited to see how it works out!

The last thought I've had about this is that I really do enjoy trying new recipes. I have learned though that this is can be expensive. I've decided that I will only try new ones every once in a while and wait until the ingredients go on sale.

James' First Birthday

2010-03-13T14:38:00.000-08:00

James turned 1...what a big boy! We were able to celebrate with Grandma Bev and Typhany while they were here for a visit. It seemed like the visit wasn't long enough for us but I think the Canadians were ready to get home. Once again my picture taking abilities are lame. At least I got a couple though. James is such a sweet pleasant boy. He tolerates quite a bit from his sisters...we love having him in our family.One of our favorite family traditions is to let the birthday kid eat their own cake. James got his own basketball and then we had one to share! He did enjoy his cake!
Isn't he adorable!

Jenna's 3rd Birthday

2010-03-13T14:35:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Jenna's third Birthday on January 29th! It was fun to have Grandpa and Granny Lee come over. They got her a new Barbie bike which she LOVES! It even has a place for her barbie to ride.
I made her a cat cake but it looked more like a bear because the ears were not triangles...Eliza should have told me that sooner! Obviously I didn't take enough pictures though because this is all I have. Happy Birthday sweet girl!

Ok...I'm a slacker!

2010-03-13T14:15:00.000-08:00

Well, let's state the obvious here! It has been a LONG time since I have posted anything and things have been passing without notice. So sorry...we've had a couple birthdays and a visit from Grandma that I need to catch up on!

Monkey!!

2010-02-07T20:35:00.000-08:00

Ok...I obviously don't know how to add a video to my blog...but this is the funniest and grossest thing I've seen in a long time! Thanks Liv!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DBuk91phkI

"Snap-the jobs a game" Mary Poppins

2010-02-04T09:49:00.000-08:00

Well...some things in life are just a chore! Recently we have had some decisions to make regarding our home. I have needed to make some changes in the way I handle our money, meaning I'm trying not to spend any. This started out as being so hard! I felt like a bad mom because I was going to make powdered milk for my kids to drink. I was going to cut out meat from some meals. We were going to eat beans. We were going to eat a lot more potatoes. Wow! I felt so much self pity with this whole decision. With a word of encouragement from my friend I made up my mind to make it fun. She called it "the GREAT pantry challenge". I think she had read it on a blog from some frugal lady... Anyway, I decided this was my challenge. So, for almost a month we have been only buying fresh fruit, veggies and milk products. I also do buy diapers, deodorant and other hygiene things but only after they are totally gone from the house.

I have learned so much lately. I am learning what is really important to have in food storage and what isn't. Like, I thought Rice a Roni was such a great deal at $1 box...well, the weevils love it and so that went in the trash. Now I have learned to make my own with my own rice. I've learned I need a lot more rice in my storage. I would really like powdered eggs. I need more oil. I need to have a lot more applesauce. I know applesauce doesn't sound essential but with my young kids it is a great filler. I think in the future I will buy apples and make it myself. I need more sugar simply for canning when items do come on sale.

Well...that list could go on and on. I am also learning the joy of price matching. Living in Vegas has some perks. We live in a highly Hispanic area so we have Hispanic grocery stores. They have the most fabulous deals on food. I simply print their ads online and go to Wal-Mart and walk out with lots of food for cheap...let me show you what I did last week.

All of this cost me $6.27. I didn't even have price match for the celery or bananas! Even a week later I still have a head of lettuce, tomatoes and peppers that will be fine to use this week. Yesterday I went and bought a 10 lb bag of potatoes for .59! Like I said, we are eating a lot more potatoes! I'm not really great at all this but truly if we have food like this and can make it last with what is in the pantry I don't feel deprived at all. We are truly blessed! I'm glad I have my food storage to use and when the time comes I will supply it again and perhaps a bit differently. So, I am learning that my happiness does not come from finding a great deal, but being happy with what I have.

Assymetry and flat bread

2010-01-20T12:37:00.000-08:00

You may be wondering how these two things are related... they aren't too much. Except they happened to fall on the same day (pun intended). While my mother was here for Christmas she taught me how to Crochet. I have really enjoyed making this afghan. I haven't made one before so choosing how much yarn and how big to make it were a bit hard for me. Thankfully mom helped figure all that out. I asked Scott how big to make it (not the right person to ask). He thinks it should be big enough for the family to fit under. Well, I had good intentions. I kept on measuring him and trying to figure out where the middle should be so I could repeat my pattern back to the other side. Finally he thought it would be a good length. About half way to the end I realized with that much added yard it would be way to heavy to even lift off the floor. So I stopped. I can't even tell you how hard it was for me to stop and to not have a symmetric afghan. I'm trying to think of it as my attempt to be "new age"... or something. I really like it but I like it best being under it when I can't see that the pattern doesn't finish. The original half way is just under Jenna's knees. Don't you think it is big enough? I actually goes a little bit past the top of Jenna's head.

On the same day I finished my afghan I decided to bake bread. I have learned that living in the desert it is best to NOT add all the flour called for in any recipe. I always skimp. So making bread I just add enough so it sticks together and then it does great. I didn't take into consideration the fact that it was raining. I have three of the ugliest loaves of bread to eat. Thankfully it tastes fine, unlike the Weight Watchers wheat bread recipe which I tried and about gagged on...it looked even worse.

Now you have heard the two sad tales of a day. No biggie

Why it takes me all morning to put away veggies

2010-01-20T11:01:00.001-08:00

Okay....so this morning I made it to the bank and then to the grocery store. I just had a few veggies to pick up. Not much. Should be a quick trip then home and put them away. So, after I've fed the two little ones its time to start the bags. I got a few non-kitchen things put away and then opened the fridge. I can't put food in there, I think to myself. I have to clean it first. So I go to the laundry room to find my Lysol. I look up and notice all my cleaners are in a bit of disarray. I have to organize those. As I'm doing this I remember the downstairs shower door is looking pretty filmy and should be sprayed out. I spray it and go to get a towel to wipe it out. Hmmm...all my cleaning rags are gone. Oh...in the dryer. So, I have to fold them all. With the help of James this is a fairly simple process. I now have a towel to scrub the shower. It didn't look quite right so I grab my windex to finish it up. Might as well do the mirrors and the mirror in the hallway too. Wipe all windexable surfaces clean! Now I can start on the fridge!

I just got back from picking up Eliza from school. Now it is lunch time. Then I will clean that, then I can work on the fridge... It might get done before tomorrow but don't hold your breath!

Lunch Time Conversation

2010-01-15T13:51:00.001-08:00

Eliza was holding a Disney water bottle that has the characters on it...Donald Duck, Mickey Mouse, Goofy, Daisy... Eliza turns to Jenna and says, "Jenna say these names really fast." Jenna, "Say these names really fast." Eliza, "No, say who these are really fast." Jenna, "Say who these are really fast." Eliza, "No, no, no...say..." I was laughing so hard by this point! This is what it is like communicating with Jenna. Perfectly innocent, but sometimes irritating.

My New Obsession

2010-01-10T09:57:00.000-08:00

Mom and dad were here for Christmas and with them they brought my grandpa's life story. I have had more fun reading about his life in the last couple of weeks. It has been a nice break to see what they really lived like. He had so many adventures and I'm just shocked at some that I have read. Like...when he was 11 he went on a 180 mile train ride and spent the week in someones home for a school activity! Can you imagine? I was also amazed that moving from northern Utah to Drummond Montana took 4 days! I didn't even think about the freeways not being there! How little I know. I wish there was a little more about car adventures because I find them quite amusing for someone else to have car issues...the number of flat tires, mud holes, dirt roads, and mountains is simply amazing to read about. I also enjoyed the story of how his girlfriend, someday to become his wife, played a huge joke on their friends by faking their breakup for a few weeks. They learned who were their real friends and were much closer after the episode. Very cute. Anyway, now I spend at least a few minutes every day learning about my Grandpa Hill. I'm so glad he left this book to read!

Talent

2010-01-10T09:52:00.000-08:00

Potty training is always an adventure. At our house I thought it would be more simple because we have GIRLS. Little did I know they can cause just as much problems as boys. I remember when Eliza was learning and she had the ability to pee between the seat and toilet so it dribbled all down the front. Poor Scott was accused a few times but I finally figured out what she was doing. She had good aim! Jenna has not let her game down in this area either. Yesterday before she was getting in the tub she showed me how she likes to pee...amazingly enough it went a good 4 inches above the seat. At first I was quite impressed with the clearance and distance and then totally grossed out as I chased James away from the puddle that was forming on the floor. I think she actually pees better when nobody is around to watch the show. At least she is trying! I'm back to only one in diapers...most of the time.

Christmas 2009

2010-01-04T13:00:00.001-08:00

I'm having a hard time with the words for Christmas...it was just fun! The kids had a great time having dad home way more than usual and we enjoyed the company of Grandma and Grandpa Hill.

Brilliant...of course I didn't get any good shots of GGHill...duh. I guess they will have to come and visit again! I really am getting worse and worse at documenting things.

More fun

2009-11-28T11:29:00.000-08:00

We took this little train down the coast. It was fun...now the girls can say they've been on a train! Unfortunately they were more interested with the little cards than the actual train ride.

Here's the bubba...

We couldn't find the seals in La Jolla so we went to the temple instead!

Fun at the Beach!

2009-11-23T15:53:00.000-08:00

The kids with their cousin Maddi...I have to admit that I am aweful at taking pictures of everyone. This is the only one I have of my sisters kids...oops! Kathryn and her kids were fun to play with!

Bad shadow by the photographer!

Oh, yum!

Aren't those the cutest, fattest little feet!

Jenna was in heaven! The biggest dirt/mud box ever! Oh, the joy

Fun in Disneyland

2009-11-23T15:45:00.000-08:00

Alice in Wonderland...our first character! The girls loved it!

Mulan- We waited the longest for this little event. Three princesses to take pictures with. It was by far the favorite thing for the girls!

This was the one thing Eliza wanted in Disneyland wo we got their faces painted. This was the sweetest lady who did them. She had a great time with the girls.

And at the end of the day this is where Jenna finally had had enough...tuckered out!!!

We had a long fun day!

Aviation Nation

2009-11-23T15:43:00.000-08:00

This is one of the funnest things to do....hang out with the planes at Nellis. We had a great day!

My Sweet Baby James

2009-11-23T15:41:00.001-08:00

Okay, okay, I know you think I'm crazy but he is adorable. I actually went over to take a picture of him as he slept in the jumperoo but he woke up and this is what he did...just giggled and laughed. He is soooooooooooo fun.

My Gentle Heart Thinker

2009-11-12T16:39:00.000-08:00

Last night I thought I was being such a good mom. I sang the girls a couple bed time songs. I was much better at that with just Eliza but last night was fun. I decided to sing one I used to sing to Eliza every night. "You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are gray, you'll never know dear how much I love you, please don't take my sunshine away." I went downstairs and a few minutes later she comes crying down the stairs. She said he had a nightmare. Was she even asleep? So, thankfully dad came walking in and saved the day. He took the girls to bed. After he comes and asks me if I sung her a new song. I told him what song it was. Eliza was scared someone was going to come and take her away. Poor little thing! But really what 5 year old can make logical connections like that. I felt bad for her but then got a little impressed that she even made a connection. I have thought about some of those lullabies before... tree tops breaking, down will come baby, ring around the rosy, ashes, ashes.... I'll have to be a little more selective in my nighttime music!

Miracle on Sandcastle

2009-11-11T08:59:00.000-08:00

The last couple weeks have been a bit busy. One thing I have been doing is helping this sweet lady in our ward. Karen fell a few weeks ago and thought she broke her arm so I took her to the ER where it was confirmed that she had. Poor thing was in so much pain. Later in the week we took her to a DR who said the sling was perfect for her break and didn't need a cast or anything. Well, things didn't get better and after the weekend she couldn't be reached. Her son called to have me go and check on her. I picked up her visiting teacher and we headed out. I'm so grateful to Debbie for dropping everything and coming. We were able to get Karen on the phone but couldn't get her to unlock the door. After waiting for her for 25 minutes we called 911 and had them come and help. After a bit longer they were able to neatly break into her home. I have no idea what they did but they were fabulous. So... we headed back to the hospital. This time she had to stay for a few days. Her son came down the following weekend to take her home to Utah with him....

Here is the miracle. He had no way of getting her around. Really she couldn't walk and needed a wheelchair even to get to and from the car. He was also concerned about her using the bathroom. My friend Pat had a chair thing that can be used in the bathroom and was delighted to get it out of her house. I went over to pick it up and on the way I see a garage sale on Sandcastle. There was this wheelchair. It was Sunday so I debated for a moment and then decided it was worth at least asking about. The wheelchair was quite old and bulky but it would serve its purpose. After picking up the bathroom chair I got in the van and went to the sale. I pulled up an asked "How much for the wheelchair?" "Oh, sorry, this man just bought it." "Darn, just a minute too late." The other lady there says..."Oh, I have one in my garage, come and have a look."
I crossed the street into the neighbors house. Out come a perfect little chair. It is wonderful! It was little and looked about 50 years newer than the other one. So here I am wheeling and dealing on Sunday...ummm...
"So, how much for the chair."
"$10"
"No problem, let me get it. It is perfect, she just got out of the hospital."
"Oh, is it for an older person?"
"Yes. She just got home the other day and doesn't get around very well."
"Just take it."
"Are you sure? No, take the money."
"No, its fine, God provides for the bigger things in life."

I wanted to jump for joy. A miracle if I've ever seen one. Someone had a need and God did listen! A true miracle!

Squeezable!

2009-11-02T18:31:00.000-08:00

Is he not the cutest ever? Ok, you don't have to answer but seriously he is scrumptious! This would be his second bath of the day. The first happened because breakfast was so much fun and messy. I even took the opportunity to cut his hair. So handsome! Tonight Eliza was helpful enough to feed him spaghetti while I was out of the room for a moment. She is such a good helper and had the best intentions. He happily played in the water while I washed most of the dinner dishes. He's by far the cutest thing I've had in my sink lately...

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-02T18:04:00.000-08:00

Oh the sugar and fun. Here are the munchkins...James was the perfect elephant, Jenna was so happy to be a giraffe and Eliza was Dorothy! Scott's is so obvious I don't think I need to explain... and if you don't get it you need to watch the office from this last week.

My tired Jenna

2009-10-15T13:29:00.000-07:00

She had asked me to cute up more chickenfor her less than 10 seconds earlier.

Conference Weekend

2009-10-15T13:06:00.001-07:00

So, I'm just a little behind...but only a few weeks. Here are some pictures from our Utah trip. We had a fabulous time. I'd give you a blow by blow but I'm too lazy and only have about 5 more minutes... Here's the cliff note version

We went to my friend's house in Hobble Creek...ABSOLUTELY beautiful! We could have spent days there... the kids obviously had fun in all the leaves!For those of you family members...try to guess who we visited next... I rode on this merri-go-round many-o-times.Here's a great ride for the grandkids! The girls loved it!Lawrence Flake! How cool is that. He lives almost next door to my friend I visited earlier! He had horses and cats...I cannot say they went unharmed.Isn't he cute! Sunday we interrupted other friends... I'm so grateful for good friends!Wynn and the girls.Grandma and the chubbubHere's the whole gang. Corey was ready!!! Herb was able to work on my back this night. I couldn't walk for 2 days but it feels much better now!

Sorry for skipping so much. It really was a great trip. We stayed with Aunt Ellen and had a great time with her and her dogs. So nice to see family!

Some things shouldn't happen twice in the same day

2009-10-14T18:14:00.000-07:00

Ok...I just have to get this out into cyberness because it is STILL haunting me. Yesterday, Tuesday, morning I woke up to James...casually did my thing...took him downstairs and fed him. Since he was up a bit earlier than usual we just hung out for a while. Finally I decided it was time to shower...about 6:30am. I had him in my arms as I entered my bathroom only to see a cockroach the size of Texas on the floor. I SCREAMED, but didn't drop the baby...Scott made an attempt to sound...um...awake. Holy Crap - I've never seen a bigger creature! My knight in shining armor rolled off the bed and came in to... scare it into the closet. THANKS! Now it was in my clothes. With all the sympathy he could muster he said "It's probably been there for a long time anyway." Are you kidding me? I wanted to die. There are just a few things I don't deal well with...jumping bugs (including crickets, grasshoppers) and COCKROACHES! He promised to spray as soon as he got home from school that night.
I went through the day and every time I entered my bathroom I scanned the floor expecting the little creature to be sitting in the EXACT same spot greet me....duh! No such luck. At the end of this very long day full of the usual Jenna exibitions, tutoring, schooling, meetings and such I was ready for bed. I went up to my room, carefully scanned the bathroom and decided it was okay to enter the closet. I took off my shorts, folded them and was about to set them in the pile of clothes when I looked and saw my little friend from the morning. No screaming allowed! The kids were asleep. I shoved my shorts into my mouth and ran out of my room! I whispered down the stairs at Scott to come and kill the thing. Thankfully he came equiped with a shoe - mine.
After smashing the bug Scott picked it up to put in the garbage. Are you kidding me? The thing might come back to life! It was ENORMOUS! Nothing is impossible for those things. So we flushed it. Then I couldn't sleep thinking it was going to swim up the toilet and bite my bum the next time I went to the bathroom.
Oh the joy of living in the desert.

Peaches Peaches Peaches Pickles

2009-09-16T09:45:00.000-07:00

My parents came down this last weekend and brought 4 boxes of peaches and half a bushel of cucumbers for me! Oh the joy! They also brought a bunch more peaches, like 14 boxes, for friends. What great parents! Even though their stay was short we accomplished a lot. They got in Saturday evening... we just hung out and distributed the peaches. Sunday was full of fun things...Like Eliza's 5th birthday!

I spent the morning decorating her cake, making a peach pie for the grown ups. We were pretty spoiled!

Monday mom and I did 35 quarts of peaches, froze 2 bags of peaches, 2 batches of peach jam, 13 quarts dill pickles and 8 quarts sweet pickles.

When I say we... let me explain that mom did most of the work. I kind of felt like the manager while she cut peaches. She would get a set in the processor and then ask what else I wanted as she kept cutting. So we froze them, jammed them...whatever we could. My mom is a HARD worker! We our last batch of peaches was in the water within 4 hours of starting! She is amazing. It also helped that dad entertained the kids and ran to the store when we needed!

So we will enjoy these for the rest of the year and hope they come down to help next year!

Panquitch Lake Camping

2009-09-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

Here is our camping trip from about 2 weeks ago. We had a great time with Grandpa and Granny Lee at Panguitch Lake in southern Utah. The kids were great and the fishing was fun!

Going Back In Time

2009-09-16T09:33:00.000-07:00

Wow! It has been a long time since I have posted. Sorry. Well, we did have an awesome camping trip in July with some friends so here are some pictures from Mt. Charleston.

This was my favorite picture of the whole trip. My kids have the greatest dad ever!

First Day of School

2009-09-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

Here is our sweet girl off to school.... She was so happy to go that I didn't even cry. I did tear up but nothing too bad. Scott was able to come with the family. It was a great day!
Eliza still loves going to school and loves her teacher. I can't believe how much she is learning already! What a great kid!

Women are born this way

2009-09-03T12:59:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR_G6EjYRUo

I hope you watch this...its 25 seconds...it will put a smile on your face!

July Family Pictures

2009-07-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

Somehow I was able to trick Scott into family pictures. I decided I had to take James in again since he has changed so much and the week of pictures he got two teeth... so these are mostly for him. Not only because he's the youngest but the easiest to get to cooperate! So, even though the family shot isn't great, at least we have one. The girls get way too excited to have their pictures taken so they are a handful...I'm glad Scott was there to help!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love Tennis

2009-07-28T14:38:00.001-07:00

Ok...I don't play real well...but I do love to watch it and play when I can. Here is a clip of a favorite moment in Tennis. You have to know a bit about the players for it to be funny... but if you know the two players that Djokovic imitating this is FUNNY!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8y2ORlHxIL8&feature=related

My Favorite Commercial

2009-07-23T17:51:00.000-07:00

This makes me laugh every time I see it...I don't even have a kid who dreads going to school. I just laugh and laugh....hope you do too!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPIIMbG9R4w

Fat Feet

2009-07-23T15:03:00.001-07:00

If I was making this comment about myself it would not be as cute.... Holy cow... Look how cute these little things are! I think he's 20 pounds. My back sure thinks so.

We lost Maggie

2009-07-22T17:10:00.000-07:00

Well, that about sums it up... Saturday night she left our backyard while we were sleeping. No sign of her. I feel aweful because I took her tags off because sometimes they just hurt my ears and I thought she was waking James up at 5am by jingling them. So, they came off a few weeks ago and of course she decides its time to check out the neighborhood. I check the shelter listing about 7 times a day but so far nothing. I just hope she's safe somewhere. I miss the dumb dog.

Happy Fourth

2009-07-06T11:46:00.000-07:00

We went up to Brian Head for the weekend....our favorite little gettaway! Our friends came with us and we had a great time. Of course I didn't take pictures of the whole gang but I did get some cute little girls!
Jenna couldn't give Ryan enough cuddles. So cute!

Evia and Eliza are so cute together! I don't even know if I saw them all weekend. They just played and played!

The girls had a great time on the zip-line. Jenna loved it even though she didn't smile more than this. Eliza couldn't go fast enough. SOOOOOO fun!

Remember This??

2009-07-06T11:36:00.000-07:00

Oh, was I bragging or what!!! Remember how Scott LOVES to have a clean garage...

In fact he likes it so much he wanted to get carpet for me to drive on so I didn't mess up the floor!

Here it is today!

We have been housing these awesome dirt bikes for over a month...more like 6 weeks. The deal was we would have them for 2 weeks. Now, I have to admit that working on the dumb things to get them running has been a good little project. That is UNTIL you break your foot enjoying the fruit of your labor! UGH.

On a side note...It's only about 110 degrees, so putting the kids in the car out in the heat isn't at all inconvenient. It's not too bad unloading the kids then making 4 or 5 trips out to the curb to unload groceries. I figure I don't need to go to the gym!

The Rest of the Story

2009-06-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

After a long week I have to say....we survived...barely. I'd try to write something funny but at this point I'm just glad we are all not in bed watching movies all day. Actually, that would be a nice break.
Friday Scott got a call back from the DR and his foot is fractured in MULTIPLE places. Scott told him it didn't hurt too bad so the doc said he didn't need to have it casted. He was told to not play sports for 5 weeks. Well...apparently sports are only tennis and basketball because this weekend we are going to our friends cabin and he thinks he can four wheel and paintball. Real smart!!! I've tried to talk some sense into the matter but I've run out of will power for that!
We did have to put the cherry on the cake for the week, while at church yesterday. I was out in the hall with James when I hear Jenna screaming at the top of her lungs from the chapel. I walk around the side to see Scott and her coming down the hall. I asked...so are you heading to time out...Jenna was quite tired so I assumed she was having a moment. Scott pulled her away from his shirt and I noticed the blood. She put her top tooth through her bottom lip. It was like one layer away from popping through. To make things a little more unsettling we were both teaching second hour so had to put her in nursery being tired and bloody. Of course there wasn't ice to help her feel better. But she was a trooper and we all survived church. Scott taught his lesson with a bloody shirt, I stepped in for a missing teacher and then taught Relief Society the next hour. I thought Sunday's were to be relaxing....?????

Eliza's New Look

2009-06-24T08:31:00.000-07:00

The dentist appointment went as predicted. Her two front teeth needed to come out. I could have made another appointment and done it another day but good grief, I already had a babysitter for Jenna so why come back. Before I knew what was happening she was smelling laughing gas and watching a movie. The dentist came back and numbed her up. Had I been thinking clearly I would have left the room at this point. But I lost my senses sometime on Saturday so I was left alone. The next time the dentist returned it was a swift wiggle, wiggle, rip and the teeth were gone. Here is my sweet girl! She is a trooper. She even had a visit from the tooth fairy!

And for your viewing pleasure here is the cutest boy ever!!!

Really?????

2009-06-23T09:27:00.000-07:00

Where did the month go? We had a great holiday weekend then came home and I think it took about a week to catch up the laundry. What else have we done this month...Jenna was sick for a few days, not too much excitement there but here is the latest. About a week ago I noticed some bumps in Eliza's mouth so we are on our way to the dentist to have them looked at. From other's experience they look abscessed and she will end up losing her two front teeth. I'm pretty sad about the whole thing because the dentist really shouldn't have to pull the first tooth you loose, right?

Saturday I had my first Pampered Chef party. I decided to sell something in my spare time. It is great because I get to think about something during the day besides cleaning the house. Now I have something I have to do without kids around. It will be a little harder once Scott is in school but I think we can do it. I had a ton of fun on Saturday and will have my second party tonight!

As I was finishing the party Scott came home with the kids and got ready to do his new hobby...dirt biking. He left with his friend for the afternoon. He came gimping through the door a few hours later. He wiped out pretty bad on his way back to the truck. The bike fell on his foot and then slid for a bit. He is in some sort of cast now but still needs to get an MRI to decide if it is broken. All I know is it looks bad.

So besides the teeth, possible broken foot, and starting my own Pampered Chef there isn't too much going on.

Since I have no great pictures of any of these things, well I do have some of Eliza's teeth but I'll not share those, here are some cute ones of Jenna. I love when kids are kids. She had a great time making a mess and blowing bubbles a few weeks ago.

Really? Could he be any cuter?

Memorial Weekend

2009-05-27T19:32:00.001-07:00

We decided to go camping for Memorial Weekend. We were too late to go to Zion but started to look around at other options. A few months ago I had hooked up with my cousin using Facebook - which is the best way to find people! Well, I decided to ask if we could come and visit over the long weekend. She lives in Pinetop Arizona and I thought it would be an adventure. She was up for the chaos. As the week started out we were watching the weather get worse and worse. Cherilyn called on Thursday to tell me it had dumped rain all day. UGH. Is there anything worse than camping in the rain for 3 days? Scott was determined to go so here we go....

The kids were okay, things were cramped but everybody was in. We survived the Hoover Dam... with delays as usual. The bridge they are building is quite impressive - and frightening. Can you imaging driving that far above the gorge?

Cherilyn, David and their 5 kids went camping with us on Friday night. We spent Saturday hiking around, catching up around the fire and taking rides on the funnest toy ever. Eliza couldn't get enough of it and poor Cherilyn was forced to take her out.

Family is great! You can miss each other for 10 years and meet up and its like time stood still. The girls had fun with their new friends. And guess what - no rain until we were in our tent on Saturday night. Here is the georgeous area we camped in. It was so nice and the weather was perfect.

Emily found another great toy...poor thing was about dead by the time the kids got done with it.

Jenna doesn't look like she was having fun at all! Here's the whole fam! We really did have a blast. The girls were so happy and dirty!

Jenna cuddled up with the rock for quite some time. She'd pet it and talk to it and want me to give it a little love...um, no thanks.

Here's my sweet cousin who put up with our craziness for 3 days!

And what camping trip would be complete without the potty making its way home for the next trip!

Thanks for a great weekend Halls Family! We had a blast!

Memorial Weekend - Part II

2009-05-27T19:22:00.000-07:00

As if the weekend couldn't get better it did...it was actually at the beginning but it made for fun throughout the weekend. As we pulled into Pinetop we were meeting Cherilyn's husband at the third circle K. Yes, directions are in the number of circle K you passed. We were just hanging out when David pulled in. I met him a long time ago... the details are quite fuzzy, but I'm pretty sure I did. Anyway, Scott looks over and says, "I know this guy." Sure enough he had served in their ward in Cleveland while on his mission.

They even carved Halloween pumpkins together. Who knew! The world just got a bit smaller!