The "Crazy" Turners

Pity Party for 1

2012-01-30T22:25:00.000-08:00

Today has been rough. Not sure if it was harder on me, my dear son, or anyone else that came in contact with me.

I haven't blogged in a really long time. I guess life gets busy and time gets away from me. But, I've had a nagging feeling that the best way to cope with this new trial is to write about it.

It's been a crazy couple of months and weeks. But we finally had some answers on Friday. Our sweet boy Alex has been diagnosed with ADD. He is also showing strong signs of OCD and Anxiety. This diagnosis has been a blessing, because we've had a "hunch" with his behavior and his struggles at school for the last few months. We are also able to get some resources to assist him. He's been struggling in school and having a hard time with a lot of changes that have been happening at our home. (That's another post!) He was having more meltdowns that ended up with him and/or me in tears and feeling completely deflated and exhausted. We knew it was time to look into some testing and additional resources.

With our new information, we started working more closely with his teacher, the principle, and we've started organizing our home to help him with routine and consistency.

Today, I am not even sure what happened! He started saying last night that his stomach hurt. Kevin spent some time with him and talked with him a lot about having a nervous stomach and that school is great and we're here to help him however we can. There had been some talk about moving him to another teacher because he has been struggling so much with his current teacher. I guess this was on his mind more than we picked up on. When he woke up this morning, he immediatly started with the tears and stomach ache. I wasn't sure if he was faking or not. He really is good at convincing me that he's sick! So, I gave in and told him he could stay home.

He crawled into bed with me and we cuddled for a few minutes. Luke got up, and he was out of bed and wanting to play. I kep telling him that if he wants to play, he is well enough for school. After a while, he did come to me and said that he wasn't sick and he was faking it and should probably go to schoole. We talked about the rules of him going to school, what is bothering him, his teacher, kids in his class; I felt like we really covered all the bases. And then the meltdown came. And it came with the thunder.

After going back and forth, lots of screaming (him, not me!) and talking, he finally broke down in tears on the stairs. At some point, something clicked in him and he came running into my bathroom and threw his arms around me. He looked up at me and said, "mom, what's wrong with me? Why do I do this? I'm so sorry for yelling at you and I love you very much." I will never forget the moment I felt so completely helpless as a mother. My heart broke. I held him and we both cried.

I told him that there is nothing wrong with him. He just needs some extra help in processing his thoughts and emotions. We talked for a while longer and then headed over to the school. We were there for almost 2 hours putting a plan together and getting us, the teacher, and the principle all on the same page. (If things aren't going the way I think they should...you'd better watch out. The mama bear has been poked!)

I was anxious when he came home from school. I was watching the clock. When he came bounding in and telling me what a great day he had, I knew he was ok.

I know I'm taking the diagnosis much harder than he is. But like I said, I feel so helpless. I don't know what his triggers are. I don't know how he's processing information in his sweet head. I don't know how to calm him as he rages and has no idea why he is feeling so out of control. I fiercly want him to know that he is ok. That we are only wanting him to be happy, healthy, and at peace. I want him to know that he is so loved and that he is not so different from anyone else. I know we will receive more answers and information as we are more educated; but I also know there will be more days like today. Days that have left me with buring eyes from crying all day, and simply defeated. And feeling like I've failed him. So, this is my pity party. And believe me...I've been crying.

I love my Alex. With all of my being. I am widly protective of him; even more so now. He is my boy with the biggest heart. He LOVES everyone and is so empathetic to others and their needs. He will be ok. He will be stronger, and he will still be the light of my life. We'll just take it one day at a time.

The UP and the DOWN

2011-07-07T22:16:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile, but feeling like tonight's a good time to write. LOTS has changed in my world and I'm getting a headache just thinking about everything that's different...even from a few weeks ago!

I started the summer off on a HIGH! I ran with one of best friends/sister-from-another-mister a HALF MARATHON. Yep, I said that right. I still can't even believe it myself, but I did it! We did it! I couldn't have made it across the finish line without her. So, thank you Karalee, for not only keeping me going, but pushing me to do something different and challenging. Yet again. I also have her to thank for my crazy obsession with Crossfit. (In fact, a little side plug...the only training I really did before the 1/2 marathon was Crossfit. The farthest I had run total was 3 miles. It works, and I am a total addict!!) And now, it's one thing I get to cross off my bucket list! Anyway, the most awesome thing about the day, besides finishing the race was the fact that it was on my brother Aaron's birthday. June 11th. A day that I never forget and will have a wonderful feeling each year now. There were a few distinct times I felt him with me that day. I felt his hand on my back pushing me on several occasions. I dedicated my run to him. I know he was right there with me, every step of the way. I am grateful I got to be a part of Aarons life; for the short time he was on the Earth. I love and miss him, every day.

So, the NEXT day, I got up and drove to Arizona with the kids. I was a little stiff, but was able to make the journey just fine. The kids were fantastic in the car and only had to say, "if I have to pull this car over"... a few times along the way. My B girl was a HUGE help and was my co-pilot for the trip. She even stayed awake the whole time to make sure I had someone to talk to and keep me going. She was also my extra set of eyes in the disgusting gas stations we stopped at to make sure the boys weren't being watched! We had planned on Kevin coming down for a few days and driving back with us. However, the airlines decided to jack up the prices that weekend, so we opted to save our money. So, I made the dreaded drive home on my own. I really missed him this trip. Road trips just aren't the same. Once we made it to Arizona, the trip was a great one! We got in a lot of family time, swimming time, cousin-playing, friend visiting (thanks Linds, Beth, Skye & Christa!), more swimming, walks with my dad, shopping with mom, swimming, swimming and more swimming!! My kids are FISH! Alex is a pro at cannonballs and diving. Luke mastered swimming without the use of floaties this year. B would have stayed in the water all day and all night if I would have let her. In fact, they all would have! We rolled in at about 8 pm AZ time (9 pm UT time!) and the kids said HI to my parents, got their swimsuits on and they were straight in the pool. And it started again at 7 am the next morning. Needless to say, we spent a lot of time in the water. But, that's what we love to do on Arizona! We also celebrated Alex's birthday with all the family while we were there. (I'll have to upload some pics) It was fun. Although he misses out on the birthday celebration during the school year, we always get to celebrate when we go to AZ with all the cousins. It's such a treat, every year! Also, since this year we were there right around Father's Day, all of us kids decided to pitch in and get dad some new running shoes. (The ones he had were terrible and he was getting the "need" to run again. The man needed some good shoes!) It was fun to take him shopping and let him pick out a pair that we knew he'd put to good use. In fact, my dad, me, Kevin and my brother Jeff are all training for another Half Marathon to do in the Fall! I can't wait. It will be so much fun. On our way home, the TV decided to crap out before we even got to Wickenburg. I was worried the boys would get restless, but we had a BLAST! We sang songs, played games, and sang more songs. I haven't laughed that hard in awhile. I will treasure that trip home always!

Once we were home (it was GREAT to be home and back to Kevin!) it was back to REALITY. And reality had a big kick in the teeth for me. The DOWN part was the falling out I had with my business partner. I ended up buying her out. I wish the transition could have gone smoother and that we could have communicated better with each other. The sad part is; a relationship is lost and feelings were hurt. Everyone keeps telling me that we were like sisters and we need to work it out. I hope eventually we can do that. Time will tell, I guess.So, I will continue with the Boutique for a while until I figure out what I am going to do. I am wanting to go back to school and I've also been given the opportunity for more hours with my work. I want to be home more with our kids.

And an update on the family:

Kev is doing great! He broke his ankle (roller skating, yes...you read that right!) in January. He had to have pins, metal, and something called a tight rope holding his ankle together. Surgery was a success...I got some pretty funny videos of him coming out of anesthesia. He is hilarious! Blackmail...one day. All I can say is he has a mean right hook and the nurse was a good sport. He also sings "Saturday Night" (Bay City Rollers) really well. Me and his sister and his mom had a great laugh...at his expense. Anyway, he's all healed up and after months of physical therapy, he's even doing a lot of running. I've been dragging him out with me on Saturday mornings for our long distance running. I've really enjoyed getting to spend that time with him and I love that we push each other harder and faster! You're a good workout mate, babe!

B is getting so big and gorgeous! She's 12 now and in Young Women. She LOVES it! She's really growing up to be a wonderful young lady. She has grown her hair out and has decided she wants to keep it long for awhile before she donates it again. She babysits a lot for us and we've loved having the opportunity to be able to get back to Saturday Date Night again! She takes great care of her brothers and loves the responsibility. (She also likes the money too!!) She did well in her last year of elementary school. She will soon be off to Junior High. (Wow, how did that happen!!) She took summer band this summer as well and has started playing the drums. I am in awe of her natural musical talent. I hope she sees what a gift she has and continues with it.

Alex is 9! He had a birthday on June 24th. He's such a good kid! He is really into Legos and Pokemon right now. He can usually be found on YouTube watching videos of both. (Typically with Luke watching over his shoulder!) He's a great big brother. He watches out for Luke. My favorite sounds are the two of them laughing and talking with each other. Some days, they would rather play with each other than with their friends. Those are my favorite days! Alex decided he wanted to take a break from his karate. So we decided to let him take the summer off. He has also decided that he wants to participate with a swim team. And, after seeing him at my mom's, I have no doubt that's exactly where he needs to be! So, swim team it will be.

Luke is Luke. Still crazy, sneaky, loving, cuddly, disctruct-o, funny, and yummy! He has been hit hard with his allergies lately, but he's been a real trooper. He takes his medicine and eye drops like a pro now! He graduated from preschool and will be starting Kindergarten in the Fall. He's pretty excited. He had some wonderful preschool teacher which helped him LOVE school. (We appreciate ALL the work and patience they put into a great program. Thanks Knowledge Explorers!) He is writing his own name, sight reads a few words, counts, sings, and tells some pretty darn good jokes! He mastered swimming at my mom's too. Yay, no floaties! He LOVES his family and tells us all several times a day. He's my little love bug!

As for me, I'm just trying to bounce back from the crazy hurdles that have been thrown. I was called to Young Women about a month ago, and now that I'm getting my feet wet, I'm LOVING it! It's so fun to see the youth in the ward growing up. They were just 5 & 6 years old when we first moved in. It's been a nice change from Primary. I've also been keeping busy with my store and my job from home. I LOVE my job and the flexibility it gives me. The store has been busy and taken me away from home more that I want to be away. But, time will tell how it will all play out. I just know I want to be home more! I am also going back to school in the fall to finish up by teaching degree and get my teaching certificate. I'm thinking 4th or 5th grade is where I want to be. We also decided to take our house off the market and stay put for awhile. We LOVE our neighbors, the kids have such great friends, and we love that more than we want to move. So, here is where we will stay for awhile. (We had to beat ourselves upside the head several times before we finally figured that one out!!)

Any who, now that this is the longest post ever...you're all caught up with our family. I'll upload some pictures soon, so everyone can see how the kids have grown.

Shriek...a new post!

2011-06-02T20:46:00.000-07:00

but not really...just an updated family picture! I'm too tired to blog now. Maybe tomorrow!!

This is one of my favorite pictures of us. We took the kids to stay at the Little America in Salt Lake. We had a blast swimming, seeing a movie, and going to "the Bakery". Plus, we all look pretty damn good in the picture!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T21:11:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, from our family to yours! We hope you had a wonderful day and are enjoying your holiday.

Love,
The Crazy Turners

Lots & Lots & Lots

2010-10-01T22:15:00.000-07:00

First, the kids did a MILE fun run for a school Fund Raiser. I LOVED this idea. It got the kids excited about exercising and they raised some money for the school in a way that didn't involve selling candy, wrapping paper, or stationary. Bravo to the PTA for doing something original this year!

Anyway, the kids did great. Alex ran first and he did great! I was so proud of him. He ran hard, fast, and finished!! Nice job son. I'm glad I was able to be there and see you accomplish this!

All smiles at the finish line!!

B is getting ready to start!

B did great too! So glad you ran hard B and you trained for a while for your race. You did good! Thanks for letting your old mom take some pics too!!

THE LION KING WEEKEND......

Me and Kev rented a hotel room, went to dinner, shopping in Park City, and then the following day went to see the Lion King. It was FANTASTIC!! We had so much fun. It was nice to have a relaxing weekend and to finally see the play that I had bought tickets for months ago!

We were all smiles as we were headed to Little America for the Buffet. It was real good!

After the buffet...we're trying to suck in!!

The Play was AMAZING!! I'm so glad we were able to go!!

My jewelry business has been booming too! We've done several jewelry parties over the last few days and have several booked over the next few weeks. Busy time for us! (SassyChic Jewelry!!)

I have also started reading to the kids at the Library on Monday's. I get to take Luke and we had a great time! We read, painted, did some fun songs. It was great!

I also get to work at the school and in Alex's classroom every Thursday. I love seeing his face when I walk in the classroom. He's not a very affectionate kid, especially in front of his friends, but I can see by the look on his face he's glad I'm there. I'm grateful that I get to work from home now and I get to do these things with the kids. I have enjoyed every minute of it!

B just signed up for Basketball again. I love this time of year. I love to watch her play, see her excel, and see her learn new things. We love sitting at her games and being the only parents yelling in the stands!!

Kev is working, working, working. He works hard for our family and we all love and appreciate him for it. It makes me happy that we can steal away a few minutes here and there for each other. And he gets a little time to relax once in awhile!

We've been busy, but busy is GREAT! Time is flying and we're enjoying every minute of it!

Alex gets Baptized!!

2010-08-26T17:05:00.000-07:00

Alex made the honorable choice to be baptized. We are so proud of him and the awesome choice he made. We love him! We are blessed as a family to have him! He has such a great heart and so many qualities that I look up to him for. He teaches us new things everyday.

Sara's Balloons

2010-08-26T16:52:00.000-07:00

On July 27th, we as a family, get balloons, write notes on them, and then let them go. We do this every year. We have the last 2 years. It's been a great way for us to heal after my sister Sara passed away.

Sara passed away unexpectedly on July 27th, two years ago. It was a blow to all of my family, including my own little family. We write a note to Sara on our balloons, shed a tear, and let them go.

Just like we have to let go of our pain. We visit it each year because we still miss her. But, the holes in our heart are getting smaller each year. We still long to have her here with us, but it's getting easier to celebrate her life and not be so angry.

We love you Sara and miss you all the time.

We hope you liked your balloons.

Not my favorite day...

2010-07-27T15:17:00.000-07:00

Today is not one of my favorite days. In fact, I dread today. I have for the past 2 years. From the time I got the early morning call from my dad. Whenever today comes around, I carry a lump in my throat, a knot in my stomach, and a feeling of the wind being knocked out of me. Today will come and go. Nothing will change the outcome of today; except for the fact that I am always grateful for my blessings and the "little" things that happen. I am grateful my brother was here today. It was a wonderful surprise and I loved him being close. Helped make today just a bit more bearable. Tonight we will have a picnic dinner with daddy at work, and we will do our traditional letting go of pink balloons with little notes written on the outside.

We love you Sara and miss you everyday. Today is just the day it hurts the most.

Alex our Scout

2010-07-18T22:38:00.000-07:00

Alex turned 8! He not only is getting Baptized in August, but he also has become a Scout! He had his first Pack Meeting and received a few new merit badges.

He also completed his Bobcat requirements. He was accepted into the Pack! Dad got to paint Bobcat marks on his chin.

He also had an arrow broken over his shoulder. He got the feather end of the arrow and once he receives his "Arrow of Light", he will get the other end of the arrow. It's a great accomplishment and gives him something really awesome to work on.

We are so proud of Alex and his excitement to begin the Scouting Program. He can follow in his dads footsteps...and become and Eagle Scout!

Way to go Alex! We love you!

In Arizona

2010-06-17T22:08:00.000-07:00

We are in Arizona. It's awesome. It's hot. It's exhausting. We have done a lot of swimming, eating, walking, talking, and laughing. We are having a blast.

Last night I got to hang out with a few of my favorite people. People I don't get to see very often. It was exactly what I needed; after a 11.5 hour drive down. Of course, I forgot to take my camera.

I did take pictures of the my water babies today. I will post more tomorrow. Looking forward to hanging out with my brothers and their families tomorrow, more walking, more swimming, and more eatting!

We are having a blast...heat and all!

I Know...

2010-05-27T23:36:00.000-07:00

I know, it's been too long since I've posted, and some people out there are still waiting for pictures from the rest of our trip. They will come. Eventually!

Tonight though, it's about being grateful.

Life has been...well, pretty crazy. I have quit my job and have been working from home for 3 weeks now. I LOVE it. I am so grateful for the opportunity to stay home with my children. I know these opportunities are few and far between. We are very lucky and blessed that this one came along.

Because I get to work from home and my schedule is flexible, I've been able to start an exercise program that I LOVE too. It's a workout unlike any I've tried. But it's more than a workout for me. It's about mind over matter. Finding my confidence and knowing what I am actually able to accomplish. And it's ALL me. No one else is going to do my 185 squats for me. If I want them, I have to work for them. And it feels good.

I'm grateful for my friends. Girlfriends that introduced me to my ever-loving workouts. One girl in particular that we have been friends for the past 14 years. Funny how our friendship started. We aren't the "say all our feelings" kinda friends. After my sister died, we didn't talk much. We didn't have to. She came up to me, handed me a tile with some writing on it. The tile said it all: "A friend walks in when the world walks out". Nothing else needed to be said. I knew all I needed to know. Another friend; after meeting in HS, became good friends. We lost contact for awhile there, but when the timing was right, we got it back. And it's as if it never dropped off..except we are so much funnier now! My day doesn't seem complete without at least 5 texts from her. (Thank goodness for unlimited texts!) I am a few very close friends. My friends have become family. I am grateful for each friendship that I have. I have also been blessed with a few "new" friendships. I love the things that these girls bring to my life. It feels good to laugh.

I am grateful for my extended family. My own family as well as Kevin's family. I think it's more the ab-normal to get along so well with your in-laws. I love mine! I was very blessed to have married into such a great family. And my own family. I couldn't have asked for 2 better parents. I am grateful for the relationship that I have with my parents. I look forward to our Sunday afternoon chats. I love and look forward to going running early in the mornings with my dad when we go to Arizona to visit. I love that I can talk jewelry with my mom! I have great brothers that I love very much. I probably don't tell them often enough. They have pretty awesome families as well. I am grateful we all get along and enjoying spending time together.

I am grateful for my husband that works hard. He is so good at what he does. I love that our kids adore him. In fact, it pretty likely that when he's sitting down he'll have at least 1 or 2 kids sitting on his shoulders, his lap, or climbing all over him. He is patient and doesn't shoo them away, he welcomes the fun! I am grateful for his understanding of things. (He understands way more than I do!) I love that he is so handy. I love that he fixes everything. I love our compromises and the way he makes me laugh. (What to do, now that Biggest Loser is over...that's the show we always watched together.) I am grateful for my husband.

I am grateful for my children. I had an awesome moment with them today. We got to participate in the Special Olympic Torch Run. We got to run with special needs kids and Officer's. It's the 3rd year I've participated. This year, we took all the kids. We rode in a trailer with some of the special needs kids. We got to watch these kids run, bike, and run some more. Their determination was inspiring. It must have inspired B and Alex because before I knew it, they were asking to get out and run. And run they did! Alex ended up running about a mile. B did about 1.5 miles. She kept right up front too, with all the runners. I jumped off with about a mile to go before we handed the torch off to another city's officers. As we rounded the corner to head into the park for the pass-off B was running next to me. I looked back to see Alex come running up the side. And Kevin and Luke were right behind him. We all got to run into the park together. It was a pretty awesome experience for all of us. B and I carried on with Lehi City for a bit. B kept me going. My kids inspire me everyday. They make me want to be a better mom. I am so grateful to be a mother to these 3 amazing children. The sky is the limit with these 3!

Lastly, I'm grateful for the different blogs that I have access to read. Some are purely for entertainment. There's one in particular that I find a lot of advice, example, sympathy, and love from. This one has made me do a lot of pondering. Made me think about what I can change in myself to be better; to do better; to be a better mother. She's a mother to 8, that's right 8 kids. And to her, it's just another day-in-the-life. We live quite similar lives. Our husband are away from home some nights and we are left to single parent. Sometimes, when I feel like I've had enough...I find myself reading her blog and seeing that she has more kids than I do... and she's doing it. I appreciate her quiet confidence. She has no idea how grateful I am for her blog. (It's on my list to send her a thank you...one of these days!)

Anyway, when I've written some of the things that I am thankful for, it is a lot. And I am grateful. I am blessed. I am a better person for the people that are in my life. I am grateful for each one of you.

Our Adventure Began...

2010-04-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

I can't get the captions under the pictures, so I'll just have to go from top to bottom.

After our 2 day delay in Minnesota, we were finally able to make it over to England. We arrived in London and picked up our rental car and drove straight to Birmingham England. We got in to town and Kev of course was looking for the first Fish & Chip shop. No luck finding one that was open though. The quest was on then.. to find as many fish shops as we could.

Kevin's cousin Joanne and his aunt Iris were waiting for us to arrive. Jo had made us a traditional English Breakfast. It was really good. It was sausage, eggs, bacon, hash browns, beans, and tomatoes. Kevin and Rob were in heaven. Jo has 2 of the cutest little boys ever. It was fun to have boys crawling all over us. Reminded us of home! Of course, Iris couldn't get enough hugs from her favorite nephew! After leaving Jo and Iris's house, we drove around Birmingham and Kev showed us some of the places he used to hang out.

Then we made it over to his friend Pete's house. It was late, but we stayed up for a bit and had a chat and a good laugh. Kev and Pete picked up just like they were young lads again. I think I even heard a little bit of his accent come back! Pete's family was lovely and it was nice to visit with them. They children were so cute with their English accents! I loved hearing them talk.

Then we drove around the town a bit more before heading back to London. I loved the picture of the car. The big "L" on the back of it is a driver just learning to drive. I think we should adopt something like that here. At least you'd have a heads up!

Then we went past the Chapel that Kev and Pete help build when they were younger and also the Mission Home. We stopped and chatted with one of the Elder Missionaries and he was from Logan Utah. (We met lots of people from Utah on our journey!)

We had a great time in Birmingham. We wished we could have stayed longer. It was a bit of a whirlwind, but we enjoyed seeing all of it!

Just needed to write it down.

2010-03-10T21:37:00.000-08:00

I had a dream last night that left me a little rattled and wondering what it meant.

I think I was being tested.

I am pretty sure I passed.

I saw my brother last night in my dream. He walked past me. I think he was testing me to see if I would recognize him. He was thin; his hair and beard short and didn't look at all the last picture I have of him. He came quickly towards me. He made eye contact with me and carried on walking past me. I called his name and he stopped and turned around. We hugged. We cried. We hugged some more.

This is the first dream I've had of Aaron. I have felt him close to me, especially when he first past away. But this has been the first time I have seen him. That I have gotten to hug him and really tell him how much I love him and miss him.

I don't know why I dreamed what I did. I can't help but feel like he was testing me to see if I'd remember what he looked like, if I saw him walking by. It's been 2 years since he passed away. It's been 16 yeas since the last time I saw him. I miss him. I would love to talk to him. I'm glad that I had that dream. I will tuck it in my memory and think of it often so I don't forget any of the details.

Right down the white and red track suit he had on.

Amongst the Madness....

2010-02-24T20:59:00.000-08:00

Amongst all the craziness of B's birthday parties, working, and just life, B decided this year she wanted to PLUNGE. Every year the Police Department plays a big part in the Special Olympics Polar Plunge. B helped me last year sell T-shirts. This year, she wanted in on the action...she wanted to JUMP. (Crazy little girl!) I told her she could do it, if she raised the $25 fee herself. I printed off her form and she took it to school with her. By the end of the day, she had raised the money. She received another last minute donation and her total donation to the Special Olympics was $45!

What a trooper. She didn't even hesitate at the side. She walked right out on the ice and as soon as they said her name, she was straight in. She jumped with our friends' boy named Austin. Me and Kev were standing at the ramp waiting for her to get out. She jumped right out, went around us and made a bee-line for the hot tub. I barely got her out of the hot tub to get dressed! She was so glad she got to jump and she was happy that she was able to raise a bit of money for the Special Olympics. What a fun time!

Just before going in!

Ready, Set, GO!

Burrrrr, and it was COLD that day!

Gettin' out as fast as she could!

Happy Birthday B and Uncle Paul!

2010-02-24T20:43:00.001-08:00

B turned 11 on the 18th of February. Lucky little bugger, she got 3 parties out of us because we couldn't fit everything she wanted to do into one day. So, first party was bowling with a few friends. (Of course, I forgot my camera!) Second party, friends over for a movie and some games. And the third party - family party and celebration with Uncle Paul, who shares the same birth date! We had fun. She is spoiled. But in a good way!

The Friend Movie Party:

The Family Party:

Spoiled Rotten By Her Nanny & Papa - she got an Electric Guitar!

Aunty Debbie brought a YUMMY Ice Cream Cake! (Alex came running up and pushed the tray it was on. Uncle Paul ALMOST was wearing the cake!!)

Happy "11" Birthday to this little lady...

2010-02-19T08:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday B! We love you and are proud of the beautiful young woman you are becoming!

In about 5 weeks...

2010-02-09T20:51:00.000-08:00

I will be here... and I'm kinda excited about it!

The Funny Things They Say & Do...

2010-01-25T20:21:00.000-08:00

My two little boys are funny. Funny when I least expect them to ever be. Here's a few highlights of the last few weeks:

Last Sunday in Sacrament:
Kevin was at work, so I took the kids on my own. We were all clean, dressed, matching, and looking pretty good; considering the 9:00 am time! The kids are being reverent and listening. Much to my delight, I look over during the hymn to see both boys not only holding Hymn books, but their mouths were even moving! I was pretty pleased. So, I leaned over to hear what they were actually singing. I do believe, I hear with my own ears...both boys singing..."The Eye of the Tiger". So, I leaned over and asked Luke if that's what they were singing. He said, "Yep, then we are going to follow it up with "She's My Cherry Pie". So me, trying hard not to laugh, nodded and said...carry on boys! (At least they were at least looking like they were singing church songs!)

Luke was sitting in the bathtub today:
Again, I hear him singing, "The Eye of the Tiger". (Man, who knew Guitar Hero was such a big influence in our house!) He was singing to the animals he had all lined up on bathtub. He even changed it up a little and added MORNING in there sometimes!

Why I LOVE my boys:
Alex got up the other morning and made Luke's bed for him, just so they could get to playing Lego's faster.
I LOVE hearing the sound of my boys playing in their room and the sound of their laughter as they are building Lego's and playing Star Wars.
I love they way Alex protects not only Luke but B too.
I love their smiles
I love their personalities
I love their individuality
I love their ability
I love their manners
I love the love they have for all of us!

I love that even when I look and feel miserable, they still tell me I'm pretty.

I H-E-A-R-T my boys!

B's Basketball Greatness

2010-01-25T19:57:00.000-08:00

B has started Jr. Jazz again. I gotta say, we L-O-V-E watching our oldest child with her mad basketball skills. She loves playing. She played before Christmas in the Saratoga League with all girls. Now, she is playing in the co-ed league with boys and girls ages 10 and 11. She is doing so good! We are so proud of her and her efforts. Each game she plays, she gets a little bit better. I can tell she really enjoys it as well because she is practicing and trying to improve. She did a basketball camp over the summer and I'm hoping Westlake HS will do it again this year. She played with 2 other girls in our area and enjoyed improving with both of them. B seems to have a natural talent when it comes to basketball. As her parents, it makes us proud to see her improving on her talent and doing something she really enjoys!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-22T15:38:00.001-08:00

Christmas pictures...finally! Here's an over-view of our photos from the day. We had a great day spending the day with family. We are spoiled every year with Kevin's parents usually spending the night on Christmas Eve. Then we get up, open presents, and eat a huge breakfast. Then we clean up just in time to start on dinner. We spend the day munching, playing with our gifts, and spending time together. Sandra brings over Christmas Crackers. They pop when you pull them apart and inside they have a joke, a toy, and a crown. We spend the rest of the night with the crowns on our head. Makes me laugh every year. Of course, I didn't get a picture of us with our crowns! Maybe next year. It was a fun Christmas this year and I love the traditions we have been creating as a family!

The Road Home

2009-12-25T20:54:00.000-08:00

On December 23, 2009, we did something that was big for our family. We celebrated Aaron's life by putting together a donation and taking it to the homeless shelter The Road Home.

I started with a flier and word of mouth. From there, everyone's little bit turned into a lot. I had people donate to us that have never met me, but heard our story. I just wanted to thank everyone who donated items. We all helped to do a really good thing and help so many people.

Just over a month ago, I received an email. It was one that I wasn't expecting at all. It was from one of our friends that we grew up with. In fact, it was a girl that Aaron dated. She asked if her sister and their families could not only donate, but come with us when we took the donation. Of course we wanted them to be apart of this special occasion. So, we have been emailing over the last month and getting all the details in place.

We met before heading up to Salt Lake and shed a few tears. It's been about 15 years since I had seen Dani and Nicki. I can't even explain the rush of emotion I felt seeing them. It was like having a piece of Aaron there. Both of them, to me, represented the time when Aaron was happy, healthy, and around us. It was very comforting to have them there. (Thanks girls and your sweet families for coming and doing this with us.)

Then we arrived at the shelter. We went during the day that they were doing a big radio-thon. A bunch of radio stations were there raising money for the shelter. We dropped off our donation (so much, that we were directed to the loading dock to unload 23 bags of clothing, coats, hats, gloves, blankets, baby needs, toiletries and some food). Since all the radio stations were there, the shelter opened it's doors for a reception, pictures with Santa, hot chocolate, and goodies. When we went in, I located one of the radio stations I listened to. We took our picture of Aaron, so at least they could put a name to a face. We gave them some monetary donations that we had collected as well, and we told the DJ a little bit about Aaron. (Of course I am totally sobbing, being over taken with the emotion of the moment!) He asked me if I wanted to come on air and tell Aaron's story. I asked him for a few minutes to compose myself and I agreed. So, we went over, took some pictures with Santa, and did a little bit of catching up with Dani, Nicki and their families. (On a side note...and I was really touched by this. We got a lot of snow a few days before we went to the shelter. Dani's boys went around to their neighbors and asked if they could shovel their walks to earn some money. They then took their money and bought more gloves, hat, and other things to take with us. I was so proud of them, and I hadn't even met them yet!) And then I did the interview. It went well. I didn't cry. I got to say what I wanted to say. The reason we were there.

We went outside and took a few pictures. Although it was a difficult thing for me to do, I am so glad that I followed it through and we were able to do as much as we did. I usually have some good ides. Sometimes I follow them through. Sometimes I don't. I had wanted to do this before, but just never got it together to do. So, a month ago, the idea was there. I wasn't sure if I'd have it in me to finish it. But, I know that Aaron was with me along the way and pushing me forward. I am so grateful for the opportunity to feel his presence so strongly over the last month. I feel that he was proud that we did this on his behalf.

I hope that this is a tradition we can carry on each year. (Maybe not as big, but being able to do something). I am grateful for friends from long ago that came to support and remember with us. I am grateful for the healing and comfort I was able to gain through this experience. I know me and my family will always remember this day.

(Thanks Dani for the pictures!)

2009-12-25T20:17:00.000-08:00

ZOO LIGHTS - DECEMBER 2009

The kids were excited to get inside the Zoo and see the lights. B and Alex were being soldiers, just like the lighted statue!

Us standing by the train. It just started to snow.

Luke on the Lion at the merry-go-round.

B picked the penguin.

Alex picked the wolf.

This was the first year that we have done the Zoo Lights. I'm not sure why, because they were AWESOME!! We all had a lot of fun. Although it was SOOO cold and had just started snowing, we had some great family time. We will for sure be back next year!!

B's First Band Concert

2009-12-25T19:44:00.001-08:00

B playing her Saxophone.

Aunty Deb, B, and her friend that is in the band with her.

Uncle Paul conducting the band.

B getting ready to go on stage for her first concert. (She did say she had a few butterflies in her tummy before she went on stage!)

Me and Luke waiting for the show to "get on the road"!

Nanny, Dad, Alex, and Papa came to see the concert as well.

B has been been playing the Saxophone and the piano this year. She started with school started in August. She amazes me with her musical ability. She played so well and we were all proud of her. It was exciting to see her play with the band as well. They all did a great job!

My Birthday

2009-12-25T19:18:00.000-08:00

My birthday party this year was a surprise dinner with family and friends at Chili's! It was a lot of fun and I got a lot of really nice stuff.

The gang together for dinner.

Kev & Kids got me some workout gear and an awesome watch that monitors your heart rate and counts your calories while you're working out. It's way cool and I love all the stuff I got from everyone.

Kevin's mom and sister collaborated with my mom to get some pictures of me and Sara. They picked this one and got this frame for it. We all cried when I opened it. It was a very thoughtful gift. I very much appreciated it, as I was really missing Sara, especially on my birthday.

Lots of updating..Alex Tae Kwon Do Tournament

2009-12-25T19:10:00.001-08:00

Tae Kwon Do Tournament 2009

Alex getting ready to being his "form"

Practicing with the mouth guard; getting ready to spar

Alex sparring. He did SO good. He placed 2nd in this category and got a Silver medal! This was his first Tae Kwon Do tournament. He was a bit nervous to participate, but with some encouragement from dad, he did it. We are so proud of him and he continues to learn and improve with each class. It was a great accomplishment for him!

It's time..

2009-12-22T20:55:00.000-08:00

Aaron Michael Taylor June 11, 1971 - December 25, 2007

Tomorrow is the day we are making a donation to The Road Home Homeless Shelter on my brother Aaron's behalf. Thanks to everyone who has donated items, it is going to be a LARGE donation. I have been so impressed with how much people are willing to give, if the opportunity is given.

I wanted to write a few things down that I learned about Aaron, after he passed away.
1. He was selfless. If he had a little bit of money, he would go into the Subway, buy a foot-long sandwich and find one of his friends to share it with. Even though he was usually hungry enough to eat the whole thing himself, he knew that many others like him wouldn't even get half of a sandwich to eat.
2. He was a protector. We talked with one of the older ladies that worked at the Subway. She told us that if she was ever working late, he was always there at the end of her shift to sit outside with her until her ride came. So she didn't have to sit outside by herself. He watched out for her and made sure she was safe.
3. Although he was homeless, he was still my brother. I love him and I miss him very much. His death was tragic and incomprehensible. I do not understand how one human being can treat another so terribly.
4. I know that Aaron is in a much better place. I feel that he is at peace. I know he is watching over us as we give back a little bit, the same way he did.

I have pondered a lot about making this donation. I hope that we can offer a little bit of comfort to people that have nothing. We have been so very blessed. We are grateful for the opportunity to help others.

I know that Aaron is proud of me. I am honored to make this donation on his behalf. I know that he is happy because I can hear him laughing.

Service for someone else.

2009-11-15T17:48:00.001-08:00

This is my brother Aaron. He was homeless.

On Christmas Day this year, it will be 2 years since he has passed away.

Our family is putting together a Service Project for Christmas and we would love your help.

Many homeless people don't have warm jackets, socks, or blankets to give them some sort of comfort during the winter.

I know I often wonder how we can help, even if it feels small and insignificant. Well, if we all work together, we can make a big difference.

We are collecting coats, blankets, and new packages of socks. Any size, any color, anything is appreciated. We will collect the items and then we will take the donation and make it on behalf of my brother Aaron. (If you would like to go with us when we take the donation - sometime in December - we would love to have you come!)

If you are willing to donate, you can drop it off at my house or shoot me an email (nmturner50@hotmail.com) and I will come and pick it up.

Tis' the season to lighten someone else's burden.

Thank you in advance for your help.

****If you would like to donate in the Phoenix Area, please email me and I'll get you my mom's information. We are getting such a good response after only one day, we decided to make this a family tradition. My family is collecting is Arizona and we are collecting in Utah. ****

If you would still like to donate, and you cannot get us your donation, please just take your donation to your local homeless shelter. Please remember that EVERY homeless person is loved and wanted. They are someone's child, sibling, family.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-02T15:43:00.001-08:00

Happy Halloween 2009!

This is Luke's BumbleBee mask. Not sure if he's in there or not, but I found this picture on my camera and I thought it was way cool!

Luke-BumbleBee, Alex-Optimus, Addy- Punk Pirate, B - Mix-n-Match, Noah - Whoopie Cushion. Great friends+ Candy+ Costumes= One Fun Night!!

Our carved pumpkins. Not too spectacular, but fun nonetheless! B's is up at the top, then Alex's, then Luke's. They all sketched out what they wanted and dad helped carve them.

My kiddos. Anticipating Halloween night!

Luke got to go with Kev to the parade at the kids school. He was pretty excited to wear his costume. He's sitting with some of his friends, waiting for the fun to start!

I don't know what the title of B's costume is...so I called her the Mix-n-Match. Tattoo sleeves, Orange shirt, and striped hair. (I hope it doesn't stick!)

Optimus Alex in the parade.

So I should get "Mom of the Year" award for this. We went out trick-or-treating and were going along having a great time. I looked at Luke's feet, as we were making our way down the last street on our way home. I couldn't figure out why he was walking so weird. Then I saw his shoes. The wrong feet. Awesome! I was really on top of things that night!!

We had so much fun on Halloween day. I met some of my friends on Lehi Main St and we did some trick-or-treating along the store fronts. Apparently this is a yearly tradition. It's the first time we've gone. It was fun. Maybe we'll make it one of our traditions. Then it was home for a bit. I made Taco Soup (which was so yummy!!) and our friends, the Allen's, came over. After filling up on dinner, we got the kids costumes on and out we went. My kids are crazy. They RAN from house to house. I could barely keep up! We got to our friends house - he's a fireman, and she's a police officer. I was saying to Rob and Simone that we should have the kids say, "my back cops, my back"! (It's a line from a movie!) Next thing I know, I can hear Luke saying it up at the door. I laughed so hard. Between the shoes on the wrong feet and that, we had a few good laughs. What a great night!!

Luke Turns "4"

2009-11-02T14:40:00.001-08:00

My baby turned "4" on October 19th. What a fun day!! We did a lot that day. I was able to take the day off. Me and Kev took Luke to lunch, then we had a small friend party at the house. We played a crazy wild game of "Duck, Duck, Goose", and "Pin the nose on the Clown". We had dinosaur cupcakes and lots of fun toys!

Blowing out his cupcake with all this friends!

He got a new Tranformer, which he LOVES!

Luke and his friends.

THEN...it was off to the Skating Rink for some wild skating, more cake, and even more presents!

Uncle Wade, Aunt Julie and cousin Violet gave Luke this Hulk. Luke danced to it all night and is still playing with it! What a great gift. It does the "Hulky Polky"!!

Uncle Rob, Aunt Simone, and the Allen kids gave Luke this BumbleBee. It was fitting..since he was going to be BumbleBee for Halloween!

This is one of my most favorite pictures! Luke had been asking for the Wolverine Claw for ages. We kept telling him he may get it for his birthday. He was SO excited to open his bag and find this little beaut in the bag. I think it made his night.

He also got a new Spider Man bike from Aunty Deb and Uncle Paul and Nanny and Papa. He rides it almost everyday and he's getting very good at riding.

Happy Birthday my sweet boy. The last 4 years have gone by more quickly than I'd like. We love you!

Lagoon

2009-10-25T13:04:00.000-07:00

The "Wicked" Survivors. (I volunteered to stay with Luke!!)

Alex: Dad, does that go upside down?
Kev: Don't know for sure.
Alex: Ok, I'll go.
After they are strapped in...
Kev: Well, it may go upside down.
Alex: Oh crap.
He went..he loved it..he went again! Way to go Alex!

Still walking around after 9 hours!! (Barely)

Because of this little lady...it's was the reason we actually went this year! Thanks for wanting to go with our family Linds. We had a great time with you!

Kev and his girl on the Big Pirate Ship.

"Thriller" came on the radio and B had to get to moves on!

The first ride of the day...this was a new one as well. Oh, the excitement!

Before Luke knew what he was riding, he was all smiles. He cried and wanted off once it got going. Needless to say, he stuck to the kiddie rides the rest of the day!

Me and Luke had our own photo shoot while the others were riding Wicked. He makes me laugh. We had fun!

Outside the "Spider". (My favorite ride!) The spider spits water. Luke thought it was awesome!

Everyone on the "Wild Mouse". I DETEST this ride, but the kids insist on going on it. I again, volunteered to stay with Luke. Alex did get me to go on it one time with him. (No one else would go again....now I remember why I really, really dislike this ride!!)

On the airplanes.

B and Alex were riding "Puff". I am such an awesome photographer!!

Luke on the planes. They loved that the guns made noise!

The Cars. They boys LOVED this one!

Odessy. B and Alex were the only ones that wanted to ride it. They love it, we don't. You get wet. As long as they had fun!

Thanks Aunt Sharon and Bop for the tickets. We had such a fun time and made some more great memories! We loved having Lindsy come with us and B had a ride-partner for everything!

We are sooooo lucky.

The Witches

2009-10-21T20:51:00.000-07:00

Ahh, the Witches.....

This Witch came right up to us just as we went into Gardner Village. The kids were a little freaked out by her, but once she started talking to them, they warmed up and really liked her. The fun part about going to Gardner Village during Halloween time is all the amazing Witches they have all around the park. It was awesome to see and I love seeing the wonder on their faces as they find a new one. I think our favorite is the "Witchy Poo". She was in an outhouse sitting on the toilet. I thought I got a picture of her, but I guess I didn't. We laughed and went back to check her out again before we left. (The witches posted around the Village are fake, just FYI!!!)

In the beginning....

This is one of my favorite pictures. I laugh every time I see it. I told the boys to be afraid of the big spider behind them... cracks me up!

The kids wanted to get their hair painted. Luke got green with a black strip on his mohawk. B did red and black stripes with lots of glitter. (I think she left 1/2 of it in the back on Lindsy's rental car!!) Alex wanted just black. Made me laugh because he looked like he just had a black helmet on his head. I kept doing a double take.

Luke with the "Witch with the really big boobs"...as my kids called her!

B

My kids are awesome. We had a GREAT time and I am so glad Lindsy wanted to go see the Witches. Otherwise, I am not sure we would have gone this year. It was so fun and we all had a great laugh. We ate yummy food from the bakery and me and Linds got some fake eyelashes put on. We looked pretty dang hot. Of course, I didn't get any pictures of us looking smokin' hot! After about 5 hours with them on though, we both got so sick of having them on...we had to rip those bad dogs off!

A fun time was had by all. We missed Kev...he had to work. Maybe next year...

Linds Trip

2009-10-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

My friend Lindsy came up for a visit. What a fun time we had!! We did A LOT while she was here. We barely sat for 5 minutes at a time. But what we did do...was make some wonderful memories that me and the kids will cherish always!!

First up, we did Park City.

We look exactly like we did in High School!!!! ;)

Lindsy with the boys in front of Bridal Veil Falls.

Me and my boys! (B was with her friend)

The boys were so good while we were shopping. What great friends.

Because they were so good while we were shopping, they got to raid Lindsy's wallet and took ALL her quarters to ride some rides before the ride home.

We had a great time!

Happy Birthday Luke

2009-10-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Luke!

My little man is 4 today. I took the day off and me and Kev took him to Chili's for a special birthday lunch. We had a nice time. Yesterday we spent the day at Lagoon. Today is a little party with some friends, dino-cupcakes, and then off to the skating rink for some good ol' fun times and cake with the family.

Happy Birthday Luke. You are getting so big, so fast. We love you!

Clear Creek

2009-10-16T19:34:00.001-07:00

Clear Creek Pics

2009-10-13T21:57:00.001-07:00

Will have to wait til tomorrow. I can't get the dang things to download.

Busy, busy, and even busier

2009-10-07T20:08:00.001-07:00

Me and B @ Miley Cyrus

Me, B, Addy, and Simone. Our BFF's!

B and Addy enjoying the show! Look at her face. Made it worth every penny we spent on the tickets!!

Miss Miley is down there somewhere!

We have been busy. I keep thinking it will slow down, but it doesn't. Ever. I am ok with that though, it keeps things moving and keeps me sharp!

Here's a quick highlight. I'll post pictures as soon as I get them downloaded off my camera!

Last Tuesday, we convinced Kev's parents to come and watch the boys for us. They took Alex to Tae Kwon Do because we didn't want him to miss it. We were so excited to get a phone call from Alex to tell us that he had received his first strip on his belt. YAY!!! We were so proud of him. He's been working really hard and it is starting to pay off. The following Tuesday, he went again and was tested on another form and got ANOTHER stripe. (Not sure how many he has to get to advance to the next belt, but we are SO excited for him.) Back to my story...so Kev's parents took the boys for us because Kev had to work and me and B were off to see MILEY CYRUS with our good friends. We had a BLAST.

MetroStation opened up for Miley. They were pretty good. (I am still a bit confused how guys can wear "skinny" jeans. It's just not a good look...for anyone.) Anyway, Miley started singing and into her 2nd song she ran off the stage. We weren't sure what was going on and neither was her band! Her back-up singer finished the song and eventually her manager came out and said she has been sick. She was taking a few minutes to see if she could pull it together and finish the show. She did. Probably wasn't the best concert we've ever been too. I was worried that B didn't enjoy herself. I asked her on our way home if she like it. She said she was sad Miley didn't sing as much as she had hoped, but she was very excited because she sang all the songs B wanted to hear. I was glad. It was a great way to start our few days of girl time.

On Wednesday, we got up early to head over to the school. It was the girls day/night up at Clear Creek. (A school-owned property that hosts an educational camp. The 5th graders go just one night, but they do a week-long camp in the summer.) Anyway, I volunteered to go along. I am so glad I did. I had so much fun w/ B. It was great to see her with her friends and do all the fun things the overnighter held for us. We did a lot of great activities. Kudos to the teachers. They did a great job organizing everything and keeping everyone entertained. I thouroughly enjoyed myself and I am so glad I didn't pass up on the opportunity to go with B. We will both remember this always. (Pictures will be posted next!)

Saturday morning me and Kev were off to do our physical test for the Police Dept. It was tough. One of the hardest things I've put my body through. Kev helped me get through it and we both completed the whole test. We passed everything but our run. We will re-test for the run soon, as we continue with our training. I know I gave it my "all" because I puked on the football field after our run. It was pretty awesome.

Then, a mad-dash over to a jewelry party that my girls were doing. They did a great job too! They had one of our best parties and I really appreciated their putting it on, so I could have the afternoon with my fam. (Kev's still working a ton, so any time we get to spend together, we take it!!) So, after I dropped in there, it was off to the Circus. I love the Circus. No matter how old I am, it's still magical to me. The kids had a blast...even though we didn't splurge on the $10 cotton candy or the $15 snow-cones. (Seriously...who can afford that??!!!) We did however, take them to Walmart afterwards and let them pick out a reasonably-priced toy that they will actually play with after we left the Circus. (I'll post pictures of this too!)

The rest of the week up til now is all kinda a blur. I am actually not really sure what we've been doing. We are busy and the days are blending. All I know...I am having the time of my life with my kids. B is going to be starting 2 basketball leagues that will run through January. Along with Band and Piano, she's on the go too. Alex is doing Tae Kwon Do 2 times a week and getting better every class he goes to. We are so proud of our progress. Luke, well, Luke is still crazy. He repeats everything he hears and is constantly cracking us up. He keeps me on my toes. There really is NEVER a dull moment around our house.

Well, that's our busy time. Pictures will come!!

This little one...

2009-09-22T14:28:00.000-07:00

I love this kid, but he seriously is shortening my life span.

Seriously.

Last week, was a LONG one. He seemed to be in top form. He made us laugh and cry - all at the same time. Here's how the week started off:

Monday - Kev was home with him because it was daddy's day off. (Mom was home sick too!)
Luke was in the bathtub...and it was quiet. Too Quiet...
Dad: Luke - what are you doing?
Luke: I don't know.
Dad: Luke - tell me what you are doing?
Luke: Cleaning the bathtub....and my butt....with your toothbrush.
Dad: What the????? How many times have you done that?
Luke: I don't know.
Mom: AAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA.

It took us a minute to recover before we could go in a scold him for doing that. Not that he even got disciplined for it - since we couldn't stop laughing!

Tuesday - Kev was at work. I took the kids to Alex's Tae Kwon Do class. It was 7 pm by the time we got home. The boys asked if they could jump out and play with their friends for a couple of minutes before we went inside. I said sure. I got out and visited with my neighbors for a minute. So, while I was talking, my neighbor said, "um...what's Luke doing?" (Never a good statement!) I saw this white streak go by. A little naked boy with NOTHING but his socks on. Then...he stopped. He bent over and showed everyone all his business. Needless to say, the chit-chat was cut short because I had a little naked boy to rush into the house...before all the moms decided their kids can't play with Luke. Now, instead of saying to Lukel when he goes outside - "be careful and have fun", I say, "remember Luke - we DO NOT take our clothes off outside."

Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday were a bit more slow - or maybe I just blocked some of it out.

Saturday on the other hand...
Saturday was a work get-together. A "Fiesta". And there was water close by. Luke is like a fly to poop when it comes to water. I should have just brought a swimsuit and a towel and just saved myself the headache. Not 5 minutes into it, he was soaked. From the waiste down. Literally. I had to wring the water out of his socks. Once the sun went down and the mosquitos came out, we were outta there, so luckily it didn't last for too long.

Sunday: Church day. Started right off with the refusal to get dressed - because he didn't want to go to church. 3 kids and one parent = outnumbered. Separating the two boys, not enough snacks in the world to keep those 2 boys quiet, and several trips to the potty. At least this week we didn't get "shooshed". But we made it through and were glad for the feeling we had in our home this week so far.

What does all this lead to? A mom with walking pneumonia and a dad with a few nights off. Maybe I'll get some sympathy from him!!

I am still very grateful everyday for Luke. Even though he can make our lives so crazy, he also brings our family so much joy. As do all of our children. I may have a few more grey's because of this little man, but every grey is worth it!

Gratitude

2009-09-18T07:04:00.000-07:00

5 Things I am Thankful for Today:

1. A workout last night. (A good one- that leaves your body tingling, knowing I've pushed it to the limit. Also hearing Jillian in my head - yelling at me to not quit.)
2. A husband that did a lot around the house so I wouldn't have to while I was sick.
3. 3 kids that make my day - everyday.
4. New/renewed friendships.
5. A good job with good people to work with.

In a good place.

2009-09-10T22:14:00.000-07:00

Tonight feels right; for many things.

A lot has been accomplished, a lot has been realized.

On days like today, I am grateful for an hour to workout. It does wonders for me. For my mental health, for my sanity, for my patience.

Here's a few more things that I have been enlightened by tonight:
1. We are busy. ALWAYS busy. When I think it will slow down, it gets even more busier. I don't fight it, I just go with it and make the most of it. It's a reality in my life right now and I am ok with it.
2. I am grateful for my children. They bring me joy. I am grateful that they have good friends and are good friends!
3. My friend posted on her blog about "Trying". It fits. That's all I can do, and I like the fact that I have accepted that I can't do it all; but I can try.
4. I am grateful for my health and the health of my family. We take it for granted. I just wanted to write down that I am grateful for it.
5. I am in a great place right now. It's taken awhile, but I am there. I think everything that I am doing now is working and paying off. I will keep at it. Always room for improvements, but one day at a time is what I can do.
6. Being angry doesn't do anything except make myself miserable. Might be time to let some stuff go.
7. I have some really awesome people in my life right now. I am grateful for each one of them.
8. "I got this"!
9. McDonald's on an even-more-than-usual busy night = 3 happy kids!
10. My sheer determination can push me farther than I thought.
11. Italy...here we come! (in the spring time)
12. There are just things that I can't change. I just have to make the most of it. (The fact that I am blogging at 11:30 pm - hey at least I still have a few scraps of energy left to put it down!) I will take what I can get. Once my kids go to sleep, it's my time to do what I need to - even if it is at 11:30 pm. I can be a "night owl" and a "morning person", right? We shall see....

Now that I have written those down, I hope they don't backfire! I love that I can write stuff down and use this as my journal. I have never been a journal writer. I wish I was. I have tried. It's not me. But this, I can do this! I am in a good place right now. It isn't all going "right", but at least it's going!

Time Flies When You're Having Fun.

2009-09-07T21:29:00.001-07:00

The past few weeks have been full and busy.

The kids are back to their school routine. Just in time for a long Labor Day weekend. We have had fun and made the most of our time. Kev has been working A LOT doing extra shifts at work, so me and the kiddos have stayed busy. Dad did have one day off and we made the most of it by taking the kids to Chuck-E-Cheese. (I thought I had already downloaded my pics, but guess not. I'll have to post those later!) We had a great time. It was Alex's turn to bring a friend so he invited Cody. We had some coupons, so we still were able to keep a lot of our money and the kids played until they were exhausted!

We have also done a lot of "gym" time, swimming, playing with friends, Tae Kwon Do, and watching movies. We've made the most of our time. I thought that when the kids went back to school that we would have more down time. Not so much. Seems like we are busier than ever!

My mom also arrived last Thursday and she spent a few days with us. On Sunday, we took her up to Farmington where she is going to spend some time up there with one of her friends (aka....Aunt Sharon) and they are going to be doing some canning. Well, since I won't be able to stay up there with them to do some canning, Aunt Sharon said we could go and pick some blackberries while we were up at her house. So, picked we did. (And got scratched!) But we had FUN. I am pretty sure my kids will always remember our experience. I know I will! It was fun to go on a nature walk and look for the blackberry bushes. We didn't get a whole ton of black berries, but we did managed to fill a bucket and then Aunt Sharon sent me home with a bag that she had frozen.

Which leads me to this:

I convinced Simone to come over and help me make jam. (Since I've never done it and Simone is quite handy in the kitchen...and she's already made some strawberry jam, I guessed she knew what she was doing!) So, after a yummy BBQ at my house, we made some jam. Yummy, delicious, pretty colored jam! We ended up with a few tubs, so I sent her home with some, and now my freezer is well stocked! I also bought some strawberries today at the store, so I am going to test my own hand tomorrow at that. So far, so good. I am pleased with our results. (I even had to shew B out of the kitchen because she kept opening up the containers and putting her finger in it to taste!) It turned out well. Thanks Simone!!

I'll post more pictures soon. I am doing a Jewelry Show at Rio Tinto Stadium this Saturday. (Sept. 12) It's a Fund Raiser. I'll post all the info, for anyone that wants to come and check it out. Maybe after that, things will slow down and I can catch up....but I wouldn't hold my breathe! We'll see how it goes....

What an experience.

2009-08-24T20:54:00.001-07:00

Sunday was a different kind of day for us. The Oquirrh Mountain Temple was being dedicated today. Bailey and I had tickets to see the dedication. Since it was being broadcast in the Stake Centers, we were able to go. We went to the session at 3pm with some of our dear friends. What a wonderful opportunity and experience for both B and myself. I have never been to a dedication before and was really looking forward to this new experience. It was moving and reverent and exactly what we needed on Sunday. I am so grateful that B expressed and interest in going and that I was able to share this awesome experience with her. It is one we will both always remember. (In fact, when she was heading out the door to go outside, I heard her singing, "I Love To See The Temple".) Kev and I were both very proud of her. I hope that she does go to the temple.

It reminds me of some pictures that me and 2 of my good friends took when we were around 14 or 15 years old. (I think?) We borrowed wedding dresses from some ladies in the ward. We wore them to the temple in Mesa, Arizona and we had our pictures taken. I remember that day vividly. It made such an impression on me. I knew it was where I wanted to be married. I hope B always keeps that desire within her to go to the temple one day. It is beautiful and lovely and such a blessing.

Anyway, B wanted to wear her Baptism dress to the dedication. She looked beautiful as always. Thank you for going with me B. I love you!

Saturday is a special day...

2009-08-24T20:31:00.000-07:00

After we got ready for church for Sunday (that's for you Beth!!!) we loaded up to go Ranger Ridin' with our friends. Kev had to work Saturday night, so our time was pretty limited. After leaving the house on time, we got about 10 min down the road and realized we forgot our key to the Ranger. So, we turned around and went back. Once we met up with our friends in Lehi, (only a 1/2 hour late!) we headed up American Fork Canyon. (I haven't been up AF Canyon in awhile...it was really beautiful!) On our way, our truck started vibrating. We had no idea what it was. Then, just as we were getting off the freeway at our exit, we heard a "pop". Dang. I was REALLY hoping it was something on the trailer and not the truck. So, we pulled off at the closest gas station to find this:

YIKES!! Luckily, it was the trailer and not the truck! That was a close one. So, Kev and Rob took the tire off, and me and Simone too the kids over to Kneaders to have a treat while we waited. Long story short, and two tires later...we were back on the road and all was well. We had a great time. Here's some photos...

Milestone..and a big one!

2009-08-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

Alex is FINALLY riding his 2-wheel bike! What a happy day. He is always careful and slow when he's not sure about something. So, last summer when all the kids were riding their bikes with training wheels, Alex was on his scooter. (He is freakishly fast as well!) Now this summer, everyone has their training wheels off. This is really the first summer Alex has even taken to his bike. So, we let him ride with the training wheels for a while. Kev kept bending them up (thanks Matt and Rachelle for the great tip) til finally he wasn't even using them hardly at all. With all the neighbor friends and a little peer pressure, he decided it was time to take them off. He asked Dad to help him take them off. B said she wanted to have a go at taking them off. She got them off and Alex was GONE! He hasn't looked back either! Me and Kev were and are so proud of him for taking that leap! Now he has no problems keeping up with his friends! What an accomplishment. Way to go Alex!

PS... he's only had one minor crash. Other than that, he's got it down!

1st Day of School

2009-08-20T21:27:00.000-07:00

FINALLY...brother and sister are home!

Alex - Before heading into class.

B getting ready to head in!

The "gang". All the neighbor kids getting ready to walk over to the school.

Alex, Luke, B. Luke wanted in on the action as well!

Ready to go. They weren't even nervous!

Cheese!

Alex was ready to just go - no more pictures mom!

Our beautiful girl. She's so big.

So I couldn't figure out how to move all the pictures around and put them in order, so start at the bottom and scroll up! B is starting 5th grade. (That kills me - means next year she will be in 6th, then Jr.High!!! WOW. It really comes fast!) Alex is starting 2nd grade. Seems like just yesterday we were walking him to Kindergarten!

We started last night getting ready for school. Kev does a father's blessing at the beginning of each school year. My dad always did it for us and it was a tradition that I wanted my kids to experience as well. Kev started w/ B, then Alex. As soon as Alex was done, Luke jumped over and said "my turn". No resisting that request! Then it was upstairs to lay out clothes, get book bags ready, and then ready for bed. B said she woke up 18 times during the night because she was SO excited. Alex has been counting down for days. I am so grateful they have had good school experiences so far and are so eager to go to school. We have really tried to instill in them how important an education is. I am glad we are seeing progress. We'll see how long it lasts!! ( I know it's only the 1st day!)

Luke did well with the kids going to school today. Yesterday when I dropped the boys off to Michele's house for daycare, I told Alex it was his last day there for a while. Luke was really sad. I told Michele that Luke was sad that Alex wasn't going to be coming with him anymore. So she spent the day talking with all the kids and showing them who was going to be going to school and which kids will still be there at daycare. So, when I took Luke this morning, he was relieved and excited that his regular friends were still going to be with him. He did miss Alex and B while they were at school though. He was so excited when I told him it was time to go outside and wait for them to come home. He was pretty excited too, this morning when we were taking pictures. He kept trying to jump in all the pictures!

Alex and B had a great first day! They were excited to get back to it. They have great teachers and are looking forward to a great school year. B will have the opportunity to be in the band this year. She is way excited. So are we. She has really impressed us and her teachers how quickly she picks up music. She has been playing piano for about 8 months and is catching on really fast. She is taking Sax lessons as well and so she is looking forward to actually playing in the band.

Alex is still doing his Tae Kwon Do and is getting REALLY good at it. He stays engaged and focused for the whole hour long class. I am hoping he can integrate that dedication into his school work. He's an active boy and I can't believe how much he has grown this summer. My little boy isn't so little anymore.

Here's to a GREAT first day of school!! I love you kiddos!

Tonight feels like a good night to write.

2009-08-12T21:18:00.000-07:00

Tonight felt like a good night to write. Nothing in particular, just a time for me to write down a few thoughts that have been swirling around in my head today.

I read books. A lot of books. I re-read "My Sister's Keeper" recently. Now I am reading "The Lovely Bones." Both books main characters were sisters. In both books, one of the sisters' dies. I don't know why I picked them up. (I guess I am a "judger" of the cover!) I was sitting outside with they boys tonight while they played. I was reading "The Lovely Bones". - just a little background - one sister is murdered and watches her family from her version of heaven. (That's the really short version!)

As usual, I think. I laid my head back on the chair and was watching the clouds. I marvelled at how quickly they moved. I watched as most of the sky filled up with dark clouds and how, in one spot, there was a white part that was so brilliant white against the sun. It made me think a few different things. 1. I think the people that pass on don't really go "up" to heaven. While I was looking up at the sky, it didn't really seem like heaven was up. I think it may just be here, with us. Just altered to fit whatever their desires are. I am sure that they are places that they get to see and move around, but I just don't know about it being "up". I just can't wrap my brain around that part.
2. I think that heaven is all around us; if we stop to look and see it. "There is beauty all around". I know sometimes I forget to stop and marvel at all the beautiful things that surround me and I am too busy to stop and notice. If I hadn't stopped and looked up, I never would have even noticed the brilliant white cloud among the dark ones. I think that these are little "gifts" that we receive to let us know that we are surrounded by people who are cheering us on.
3. And it was calm. And then the wind blew. Not a big billowy wind, but just enough to sway the tress. Another "gift" to let me know that they are here and watching. That's what I think anyway.

As I sit here now and write, I have a lump in my throat. I have spent some time reflecting. Contemplating lots of things. How to slow down a bit and enjoy a lot more. How to be a better mother, daughter, sister, friend. I feel not just for all that I have lost, but all that I have gained. A greater understanding of my Heavenly Father's love. A beter understanding of the plan. An opportunity to sit at a dedication with my daughter; the first for both of us. How to look for the gifts everyday that are given to us to remind us that we are not alone here. That they are still very close and are cheering us on. Pushing me forward. I have a wonderful husband and beautiful, healthy children. I don't think it gets any better than this life, right now. I am enjoying every minute of it!

Thanksgiving Point

2009-08-12T20:38:00.000-07:00

Luke on the pony ride - look at that cheezer!

B on the pony - but not in the best mood since she had just been to the dentist and had 3 cavities filled. (She didn't even realize she had shots in her mouth! What a trooper!)

Alex - loving every minute of the pony ride.

This week we have been busy. Well, we are always busy, although I am never quite sure what we do! I guess it's just the joy of parenting and raising children. This week though, I do recall we made a trip to Thanksgiving Point. We were supposed to go last week but ended up not being able to because Alex had the stomach flu. He was so sad that we didn't go last week, we had to make it a priority this week. So the "deal" was; it's $2 on Tuesdays for any venue only during August. I guess everyone in Utah County had the same idea we did. It was PACKED!! But, we were there so we braved the crowd. We only had about an hour and half before Alex had his karate class. So, we got in and looked at the line for the Pony Ride. (This was the reason we went to Farm Country - the Pony Ride. It was a "must".) It was long. I've been to Farm Country many times, so I sent Kev around with the kids and I stood in line. About an hour later, we finally made our way to the front. 2 short minutes later, the ride was over. Oh well, the kids were happy. We ate dinner at McD's and then to karate. It was a fun family night.

***And since our camera fried and we just got it back, I will post better pictures from now on!!!!

It's time.

2009-07-30T22:27:00.000-07:00

This week has been full for me. My week started off re-visiting a very painful time which was the death of my sister. July 27th was the 1 year anniversary of her death. It's been a long year. Over the last year, I have spent a lot of time working on healing, forgiving, loving, and moving on. I still have my moments where I miss her terribly, but they are just moments, and not days. Her death affected every aspect of my life. I was unmotivated, unproductive, and down.

There was an end in sight. This week marked many changes.

Before my sister died, I had lost 50 lbs. After her death, I had gained 30 back. (I am down 5 now though!!!) This last year, I have been working really hard on healing, finding the place I need to be, and moving forward. I have found that as I have been working towards my goals, that all aspects of my life need to be in order to make any measurable progress. When one area was working, another was failing. I had to figure out a way to sync myself. 2 of my big goals have been achieved. One of the biggest ones was finished Tuesday night. It was time, and I was ready. I can't wait to get back to the one place that I really need to be.

My second goal I achieved tonight. While achieving this one goal, I realized I had to let one of my other ones go, for now. I really wanted to do a triathlon this year. I am not ready. Not physically, mentally, or emotionally. I am on the path and maybe next year will be the year. It's still a goal, just not one front and center. So the other goal I reached tonight was to run. I wanted to run at least 2 miles. As I finished my last lap I thought to myself, "I got this." And then I kept going. I will toot my own horn for a minute...I did 2.5 tonight. That was huge for me. It felt great to push myself harder than I have in a long time. It felt good to be focused and how easily it fell into place when all the aspects are in sync. For the first time in a long time, I felt really, really good. It feels like a lot has changed and the healing is well on it's way.

I know that I am going to be ok. I know that my family will be ok. I am so blessed to have a wonderful husband that loves and supports me. We have fun together. He makes me laugh even when I don't want to. We are going to Italy next year. It's time to have our honeymoon! I have 3 beautiful children that bring me so much joy that my "cup runneth over". They push me to my limits. They wear me out. But they are mine and I am a better person because I have the opportunity to be their mother.

I have wonderful friends. Friends that I have re-connected with who are more important in my life now than they ever realize. Family that accepst me and loves me. A new friend that stops by to give a hug because she understands what it's like to have a "moment". Friends that know when a good movie and a cry is exactly what I need (and go to Italy with!!). Friends that bring their babies over so I can munch on them when I have a moment of weakness and think I may want another one. (It passes quickly...every time!) A friend who has become like a sister to me. A friend who has been a friend for many years and knows that our standing date w/ Kenny Chesney is important and a priority and I know that if I need her she is a phone call away. I am so blessed.

I also have a very supportive Bishop that has made an incredible difference in my life over the past year and has helped me get to the place I need to be and haven't been for a long time.

It's time. Change is happening now and it feels right.

My date went well....

2009-07-26T21:31:00.000-07:00

My one most favorite person in the whole world!! My usual date!

He's up there somewhere!

He was singin' to just me. There was a vibe. If I could have been up closer....I would have been up there sining' with him. Oh well, there's always next year! (It's not the best pic, but considering it was my with my camera phone...not too bad!)

Me, Karalee, and Shenagh. What fun girls night. Same time, same place next year girls!

2009-07-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

I have a long-standing date with 3 of my favorite people tonight. One of them is this guy.

I am SOOOOOOOO excited.

I have a date....

2009-07-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

More to come...

2009-07-20T21:40:00.000-07:00

There's a lot more to post, but since I have other motherly duties to attend to.... I will have to post more later!

The Japanese Garden

2009-07-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights on our trip was riding MAX downtown and going to the Japanese Garden. It was absolutely beautiful. Kev was mesmerized and I know he was taking mental notes on what he could implement in our own yard! We had a great time and it was a fun day trip!

Alex was ready to go!

Luke showed us around with his map!

Wearin' them out!

A short break. Luke was mad because he totally biffed it on the rocks!

My favorite people!

Loved this little archway thing.

(Note to self...this is not a good look for me!!!) Everyone else looks so good!!!

The beginning of our Oregon Trip!

2009-07-20T20:49:00.000-07:00

Trying to keep everyone entertained on the first part of the trip!

B had to "create" her own space away from the boys. This was her solution!

The "Big Daddy" doing all the driving. (And gettin' a bit of sun on those pasty white legs!)

Still being good!

Just checking things out!

Time for a pit stop!

Headin' out of Idaho and on our way to Oregon!

July 11, 2009

2009-07-12T21:33:00.000-07:00

July 11, 2009

Yesterday was my sister's birthday. My mom and dad took some flowers to the cemetery for all of us. But, being in Utah, we wanted to do something up here. Me and Bailey talked about it the day before and we decided we would get some balloons and let them off on her birthday. So, when Kev got up on Saturday, we ran a few errands and stopped to get some balloons. When we got home, we all wrote a little note on the balloons then we let them go. It was a great thing for us to be able to do something for Sara. Not only for me, but for the kids too. B has been missing Sara a lot these past few days, so I wanted to make sure we did something to remember her and let her know that we are thinking about her; especially on her birthday. We love you so much Sara and miss you.

Father's Day

2009-07-12T21:12:00.001-07:00

The boys treated dad to a "stinky" foot rub on Father's Day!

Happy Father's Day to a GREAT dad! We love you!

Happy Bithday

2009-07-06T22:15:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Kevin!

On the Road..

2009-06-27T23:04:00.001-07:00

We are finally in Oregon. We rolled in around 6pm tonight. We stayed in an awesome RV park last night in Meridian Idaho. It was fun. We swam, we watched movies, then we used the public shower, got ready and back on the road. (Maybe a 13 hour drive to Oregon w/ 3 kids wasn't one of our best ideas....) We have been watching movies, and trying to keep the kids from beating each other up. Bailey resorted to putting a blanket up between her and Alex. Oh well, builds character right?? We have had a fun time so far and have seen some beautiful scenery. (Well, I saw most of it. Kev was getting a smidge annoyed with me because I have had my nose in the "Finger Lickin' Fifteen" Janet Evanovich book - he said he didn't understand how I can read while we were passing such awesome things to look at. My response - you obviously have never read one of these books. Then I put it longingly back down and looked out the window..wondering how much time I have to wait before I should pick it up again. Needless to say, it's late, everyone is asleep and with some luck, I'll finish it tonight!! Thanks Jaime!!!!!!)
Anyway, back to my post. So being the awesome mom that I am, I actually remembered to get the camera. I did however, forget the little thingy to download the pictures. I'll have to post them when we get home.
We are having so much fun. Tomorrow we are off to ride the train downtown and go to the Japanese Garden, then to my cousins house for a big family dinner. Can't wait!

Birthday Boy

2009-06-24T11:58:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALEX!! Our boy turned 7 today. We feel old!

This Kid...

2009-06-15T17:08:00.001-07:00

This kid...it's a good thing he's so stinkin' cute and makes me laugh because yesterday he pushed me right to the edge of the cliff. I have to just blog about my day yesterday because I lived it and I am still not sure we experience what we did in one 24 hour period. Our day went like this.
Got up, got the kids in and out of the bath. Got ready for church. About 30 seconds after I put Luke's shirt, he found chocolate and managed to wipe it all down the front of his shirt. I whipped that one off, found another and out the door we went. After church, we picked up McD's and headed to Kev's parents for a visit before they headed off to Oregon for a month. The kids ate great and we stayed for about 1 1/2 hours. Then we needed to head to the Mall to pick up Kev's gift for our Anniversary. On our way, Luke decided to put a pen down his throat. He managed to throw up all his lunch all over the back seat of the car. And there was A LOT! We pulled off, and luckily I had 2 towels, napkins, and some baby wipes in the car. I mangaed to get most of it cleaned up. Back in the car and off to the mall. (I almost gave up at that point, but what the heck - we were already out!) So off we went- and Luke's saying how hungry he is! I talked to the kids the whole way up saying that we aren't buying any toys, but if they behaved, we would go on the Merry-Go-Round. So, we get into Dillard's and of course Luke has to go to the bathroom. We hit the bathroom, and then we head down the escalators. I am reminding the boys - hands in the pockets, don't touch anything, and just give me 5 minutes to get dad's gift then we can go ride the ride. They turn w/ their little Angelic faces and say "ok momma". No sooner did we get to the counter, did Luke spot the glass jar that held the coffee beans on the counter. He picked it up and before I could tell him no, he dropped it and it shattered on the floor. Needless to say, I made my purchase fast and we got outta there. Then we went to ride the ride. No problems there! As we were walking out of the Mall, I wanted to stop at the T-Mobile store and see if there was any deals. I asked B to keep an eye on the boys for a minute while I looked. (There was a fish-tank across the path that they were looking at.) After a few mintues, I turn around and B is standing next to me....not watching the boys. I said where's the boys - she pointed out of the store. They were climbing all over the gum ball machines. I didn't want to wait around for the crash of one of those, so we loaded up and left. We had to stop at the store for a few groceries. Again, I gave the schpeel - no toys. Every time I turned around, one of the boys was laying on the floor, or they were chasing each other around, or throwing fruit around. About this time, I am done. At wit's end. We get to the checkout and Alex starts in about a toy. I tell him no repeatedly. After about the 50th time, I just ignore him and get everyone out to the car. We play the quiet game the rest of the way home and 2 sets of Legos are in time-out. As we pull into the garage, Luke somehow manages to fall out of the car and hit his cheek on the door. He sobbing - like the not breathing sobbing. I bring him in and console him. He's fine, starts running around and chasing Alex again. I get the groceries and the "vom" towels from the back of the car and start putting everything away. The boys are jumping around upstairs. No one is crying...yet, so I am not too worried. I have everyone get jammies on. It's 7:30 pm. Too early for bed, but close enough to get ready. They are all still playing upstairs, so I continue getting things done around the house. Then I hear it...cries of pain. Alex comes down the stairs and says Luke just kicked him in the eye. Sure enough he did.. Alex got it right in the corner of eye. Just enough to make it black and blue. That's it...EVERYONE to bed. I am done. Someone is going to get beat if he doesn't get to bed NOW. He was out cold about 5 minutes later. I quite enjoyed the rest of the night in silence. What a long day!

Soaked

2009-06-15T16:59:00.001-07:00

Here's me and Cristy. We are wet. Not just wet, but SOAKED to the bone. We signed up to do our Vendor Booth at the Saratoga Splash. We were busy selling our jewelry and bam, we got nailed with rain AND WIND. By wind, I mean 60 mph wind. We just about lost our tent! Luckily our Chief and one of our other Officer's were there and they quickly helped us gather everything up and loaded it into Cristy's car. It was hysterical to watch and participate. There was one point that I couldn't even move because I was doubled-over laughing so hard. The poor Chief almost blew away with our tent. Needless to say, we have a lof ot sorting to do because we litterally "threw" everything in the back of Cristy's car to get out of the weather. Once we saw the lightening overhead (and screamed like little girls - literally) we knew we had to make a fast get away. What really sucks is that we were actually selling a lot of stuff and making some good money!! Oh well!! Lehi Days is next weekend. Hope there's no more rain in the forecast!

Adrenaline

2009-06-09T20:38:00.000-07:00

http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=6758657

This is where I spent my evening last night with Kevin. Not the evening we had planned. Debbie and Paul said they would take the kids for us because Kev and I had some training on Tuesday that started at 7 am. So, we dropped the kids off at Debbie's, picked up our friends. We headed out for some dinner and a movie. Well, we got the dinner - the movie was a bust! We have been waiting for a month to see this movie too, so I was really torn. We got our drink, hit the bathrooms, and were heading into the theater as Kev's "super magic" phone went off. It was a SRT call-out. Not a drill - full call out...me included. (I was asked to join the SRT team as the record keeper on calls. I keep a time line of the incident as well as who's on the call. Lots of little details, sitting, and listening; but a totally amazing experience/opportunity). Anyway, we told our friends we had to leave (sorry Rob and Simone - but thanks for waiting to see the movie with us!) and we rushed back to their house to get our car. We ran to our car, and Kev peeled out and we were rushing back to our house to get some gear and I needed shoes. (I love shoes, but I really couldn't go to a tactical operation in 3 inch wedges!!) So we grabbed our gear and headed to the meeting spot. Kev got changed and all the guys put on their tactical gear. (What an awesome sight to see everyone dressed out in their gear!) Then we waited for an update - barricaded suspect. Wife and kids had made it out; not sure his status - but 2 shots were fired. A full County SWAT call out now. Our SRT team goes in first. I stand at the perimeter and take notes - as best I can. (I haven't been fully trained yet and this is my first tactical operation - I was flying by the seat of my pants!) As more of the county guys showed up, we set up a Command Post up the road from the target location. I sat in the CP with the other guys running the County SWAT team and took my notes. I recorded everything that came over the radio. Kev was down with our SRT Team, right in the middle of everything. Once all the county guys were in place, our SRT team was relieved and came back to the CP. Kev is a Bomb Tech and they have robots with cameras. The robot was ready to be deployed - Kev went down to help drive it. As the minutes ticked by, I was nervous for our guys (although I knew they were well trained and would absolutely not let anything happen to any one of them), but I was also so proud to be a part of something this huge. The outcome was not what we all hoped for, but we did help a wife that was battered and she was able to get her children out of the house before he turned the gun on himself. It was a sad outcome, but for our SRT Team, we got to put our tactical experience to use. We did a great job and I am proud of not only myself, but my team. What an experience. I am pretty fortunate as well because I got to see my husband in full swing of what he does best. We rolled in around 3 am and got to bed just to get up 3 hours later for training. What a long night/day/night. My adrenaline is coming down. I am ready to crash!

Karate Kid

2009-06-02T22:11:00.000-07:00

Alex had a HUGE night tonight. My big boy has started Tae Kwon Do. We have tried for the past 4 months to get him into this class. Well, as luck would have it, there was a spot this month and his first class was tonight! We are so proud of him. It was great to take him in and see how much he's matured from the last time he did Tae Kwon Do when he was 4. He's much more disciplined and way ready to take on this challenge. He asked his teacher at the end of class what he has to do to earn his belt. I was excited to hear exactly what he needed to hear - practice, come to class, listen. Alex has his eye on the prize...a new belt. We are super proud of him and can't wait to see him move forward with this!

Camping with the Fam

2009-06-02T22:04:00.000-07:00

We went camping at a place called Mud Creek - and it was just that. MUD everywhere. But it was fun. We survived 2 thunderstorms - thanks to the TV and some movies, a BB gun being used by all the kids, pocket knives, a dog fight, and a good book. It was a lot of fun and we are looking forward to lots of weekend camping over the summer. It was a great way to celebrate all the kids hard work at school and the end of the school year.

Lots and Nothing

2009-05-25T21:05:00.000-07:00

A Memorial Day indeed. So much I have to say, but not much wanting to blog about it. I wish that I was closer to my family. I am grateful for the family I have close to me here.

We have been super busy and I am hoping once school is out things will slow down so I can actually post some fun family pictures of the stuff we've been doing.

I don't want to say "Happy" Memorial Day, but I am thankful for those that have given their lives to fight for our freedom. Memorial Day has been a day of remembrance for me. I am grateful for what I have.

It's Go Time...

2009-05-13T21:49:00.000-07:00

I am training for a triathlon. I am scared, worried, nervous, but sure that I will at least give it my all and complete it. I know that I will get out of my workouts what I put in to them. There's something very powerful about when you've worked your body to it's limits. A great sense of accomplishment. I have set goals for each workout (I am trying to be more visual with my goals...thanks Ann, it's working!!) and I have committed to doing something 6 days a week. I've trimmed a lot of the "fat" out of my diet and up-ed my activities. So, I guess I am in training right now. Some of us from work are preparing for the race. It's in September at Juab. I am really excited that I have something this big to help me focus. I am feeling that self-determination coming back. I am feeling that "maybe I can do this" coming back. I am feeling more and more confident every day. (And the weight loss is a plus too!!) When I think I am done, I give 10% more and finish on a high note.

Lately life has been busy as the kids are wrapping up the school year, B is adjusting nicely to her braces, and they boys are ALWAYS outside enjoying the weather. We all experienced the first sun burns of the season, with more to come, I am sure. I am loving life. I am finding myself again, and it's feeling great.

2009-05-13T21:28:00.000-07:00

Here's some pictures from the zoo. Kev's parents got us a zoo pass for Christmas last year and we finally went. The pass is good for 1 year from the 1st use. So, we've got some good zoo time coming our way! And from the looks on the kids faces with every animal we saw, we'll be using the pass often. We had a great time as a family and it was so fun to see how excited the kids were to see all of the animals. I love going to the zoo. So do my kids. The bird show was great too, as it is every time we go. I am always so grateful when we get to make such fun memories as a family.

2009-05-09T22:04:00.000-07:00

I am grateful for the opportunity to be a mother. I am blessed times 3.

Ps... Thanks mom, for being a great mom too!

Around the world...

2009-05-05T22:40:00.000-07:00

It sure feels like we've been around the world. It's been a buys few weeks. I will have to post more pictures tomorrow, but here's some of what we've been up to:
1. Me and the girls put on a successful Boutique and we managed to sell a good amount of jewelry.
2. Lots of "out-side" time.
3. A trip to the Zoo
4. Workouts
5. House cleaning
6. Mountain of laundry..really a mountain.
7. Working
8. Trip to the new Walmart
9. New Fish
10. Hannah Montana movie with my date B.
And to round it out...

A morning at the dentist w/ B so she could get her braces on.
Isn't she cute! She's been a real trooper!

Mother's Day Boutique

2009-04-27T20:45:00.001-07:00

SassyChic Presents:

Mother’s Day Boutique

Come buy your Mother’s Day gifts and have money left over to buy something for yourself!

Who: Anyone and Everyone. Tell all your family, friends, and neighbors.

When: Saturday, May 2, 2009

11 am to 4 pm

Where: 371 N. 100 W., Lehi

(Behind the Legacy Center)

We will have several different Vendors at the Boutique offering everything from Jewelry, children’s hair bows, Infant car seat covers, Scrapbooking materials, and more! Door prizes will be offered and light refreshments will be served.

Tappin' out and 10%

2009-04-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

Not sure why everything is underlined, but let's just say it's par for the day! It has been quite the day. In fact, I am tappin' out and going to bed soon. It all sort of set in after work. Kev and I are on the Police Dept Special Response Team. Tonight was training. I got the call last night that a large salad needed to be prepared for this afternoon after our training. So, after work, I picked up Luke and headed to the store. Then home for a quick change into my man-gear, dropped the kids at the neighbors (I have to say on a side note - I have the BEST neighbors that are always willing to help watch our kids. I am glad that they are all for trading!! ) Anywho, after standing outside while the boys on SRT team completed their team tryout (I am the scribe for our team, so I kept time for each member.)I was speeding home to pick the kids up and I remembered that the lady that bought our shed is coming tonight to pick it up. Crap. I have a trailer to move (Kev was supposed to get that moved earlier today..guess he forgot about the shed-lady too!) and I am in my car. The truck is at the Police Station. Detour - I ran to the PD to get the truck. Ran home, hooked up the trailer (I was super proud of myself for doing this all by myself...I haven't done it yet with this trailer and I was a bit nervous.)So, after I accounted for all the kids, I pulled out slowly and headed around the first curve. And I didn't swing wide enough and wiped out a few of my neighbors plants. Ouch. I managed to get the trailer around to the front and told Kev that's where it's staying til he can move it tomorrow. I know my limits and backing the trailer back into the driveway was NOT going to happen unless he was prepared to pay for a new side of the house. (I am pretty sure I'd have wiped that out too!!) So, the shed lady shows up; they get the shed up on thier trailer. Just as they are leaving, Luke quite loudly announces that he has just peed in his pants. Note: there are rocks and dirt (which I will add, he has peed on with no problem all last summer)just right next to him. Dang. I get him inside and get him changed. He is a mess...he's overly tired, overly exposed to the sun today, and overly ready for bed. It's only 7:15 pm. Oh well, he's done and so am I. I send him and Alex up to get their pj's on. I go to the kitchen to get their chocolate milk for the night. Alex comes down stairs and says,"mom, you might want to come upstairs and see what Luke's done." Not only didn't I pick up on the fact that it was entirely too quiet upstairs, but when Alex comes and tells me that, I just know it's never good. Hence the picture below.

That's shaving cream. All over the bathroom floor. I rolled up the rug, put the can on the counter, and then I shut door. Kev can clean it up tomorrow. I am tapped out. I am done for the night. I took a picture and sent it to Kev. Then I gave him my notice!

Next up was actually getting the kids into bed. After family prayer, everyone was sent to bed. Mama is done and needs some quiet time. By the time I got Alex settled into bed, I went back in to check on Luke. He was already OUT COLD! Nice..I am grateful for the little things! 1 down, 2 to go. At least the other 2 are in bed and quiet. So, I go in and wash my face before heading downstairs to watch GemsTV. (My latest addiction!!) I wash, then I pull out a cotton ball to put some cleaner on my face. I am wiping away all over my face. I think to myself," this smells different than usual." DUHHHHH, it's not my usual stuff...it's NAIL POLISH REMOVER. What the?? How did that happen. My face is on fire. I'll let you know if it clears it up or breaks me out.

So, this brings me to the 10% part. I read a book about giving and extra 10% of yourself. It could be in your marriage, in exercise, in family, in relationships, patience, giving, etc. So, I have put it to the test. Yesterday I gave my extra 10% by taking the kids for a walk AND bringing the dog too. (A whole other story - 6 kids and a large dog. And because the weather was nice..everyone and their dogs were out too. Needless to say, I have one sore arm from trying to keep my dog from chasing all the other dogs!) So my 10% for today? Exercise. As you can tell from all the above, I was already done. Exercise was not on the list for tonight. The donut on the counter and a few TV shows were. Then the 10% crept up on me. I didn't indulge in the donut AND I manged to get in a workout - running up and down my stairs. And then when I was done, I gave 10% more and did one more set. I gotta say, yea me!! I am loving the 10% thing. Next up...my vision board. I love the power of positive thinking!!

Happy Easter, pt 2

2009-04-12T21:51:00.000-07:00

So after our disastrous Egg Hunt at the local park, I thought we'd make it up to the kids and have our own Egg Hunt at our house tonight. So, 3 kids, dog in the background, 3 Easter Baskets, several eggs, and lots of hiding places, our in-house Egg Hunt was a success. You can see the excitement and anticipation on their faces. We made them wait for a minute until I got a picture of them. They must have been really excited because they went up and got their pj's on while we were hiding the eggs..without being asked to do so. I love these little stinkers! Hope everyone had a lovely Easter. I know we did!

On a side note..I got to teach the Primary lesson today. What a blessing to be able to teach these children more about Christ and the Atonement. I enjoyed teaching the lesson and I learned much more about the Resurrection and the Eternal Plan. We are so blessed to have this knowledge. What a great day.

Happy Easter

2009-04-11T23:34:00.001-07:00

B at the Easter Egg Hunt

Luke at the Egg Hunt

Alex at the Egg Hunt

The fam, minus dad...he was at work.

The 3 with their EMPTY Easter baskets. Yes, EMPTY. We got there literally about 5 seconds after the horn blew. My kids hit the field and looked around and ALL the eggs were gone. Luckily, we saw one of our neighbors walked by and his boy had a whole backpack full of eggs. (Wonder what time they got there to get up close enough to actually come away with more than 1 egg?) Anyway, his son so graciously gave each of my kids an egg. (Which is quite funny because I told B that I didn't want to go to the Egg Hunt because there would be millions of kids and they will probably only get 1 egg anyway!!!) Needless to say, the Easter Bunny will be hiding eggs around the house tomorrow for them to find. Happy Easter!

New Do

2009-04-11T23:31:00.000-07:00

Got my hair done by my fab friend who was in our area last week. LOVE it! She did such a great job. Love the color, love the cut. It's darker than I thought it would be, but it looks good! I like the way my complexion looks now with the dark hair a lot better than the blonde. I don't feel like I have to wear a ton of make-up with the darker hair. Anyway, here's a picture of the new do!

Baby Steps....

2009-04-08T18:41:00.000-07:00

Baby steps...day 3. No caffine and only a minor headache. Got my hair done, so that took my mind off the driving want/need for a couple of hours. I love good distractions like that.

Still fighting the urge now, but my youngest boy has his arm around my shoulders and just told me that my hair looks pretty. How can I give into temptation when I have such good support here?? I love my family. They are always pushing me to do better and be better.

Deflated, but not Defeated

2009-04-06T20:19:00.001-07:00

The last few weeks have been a bit interesting for me. I have done a lot of internal investigation. I don't know everything, but there's a lot that I know. I have a family that loves me dearly. I am blessed in so many ways. The heart, mind, and body will eventually put itself back together, the best way it can. With a healing heart, some self destructive behavior can become part of a daily life. Before my sister passed away, I was on the "healthy" life plan. After she passed away, I kinda let it all go. I have put on a few "lb's" and have not kept up on my fitness..at all. So, I had some choices to make. Kev and I have started the P90X workouts, and are doing them as we can. I haven't fully committed to them yet. I am working on it! Then, last Tuesday we were able to go to the gym together. It's been awhile since we have been able to do that. Last time we were there, we were able to run 2.5 miles without stopping. Well, going back into the gym, I knew that it was intimidating. Everything I worked so hard to gain before was gone. Or so I thought. I couldn't do the 2.5, but I did manage one. Today, I'll take it. I wasn't totally defeated. Just deflated. So, I am throwing myself into a better lifestyle, a better hobby, and a better me. Wish me luck!

Boys and their imaginations

2009-03-29T10:01:00.001-07:00

I love my boys and when they are left alone with only their devices, this is what they came up with. A pillow in the pants. I laughed so hard when they came down with the pillow in their pants. I love my boys.

Poetry in Motion

2009-03-29T09:32:00.000-07:00

B and her friends.

B had a 4th Grade Poetry reading the other night. I was so impressed! She learned several poems and memorized a bunch too. She didn't forget any of her lines and she wasn't even nervous. That's our girl!

Lots of Fun

2009-03-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

Me, Loni, and Rachelle. Me and Rachelle went to a Body Building competition on Saturday night to support our friend Loni. Loni has worked hard to compete and not only did she look absolutely fabulous, but she also placed 4th. I was so proud of her not only for her dedication, but also getting up on that stage in the tiny outfit and heels!!

This guy is the poo. He is a Body Builder Champion or something to that fact. I am not up on my lingo, so I am not sure what his exact title was. One thing I do know, he was HUGE. I don't honestly know how he was even walking. He looked really uncomfortable. But, he obviously had a lot of dedication to put that much work into his body. Very impressive.

Loni is second from the left.

Here's Loni workin' her thing. She totally rocked it out.

Before and After

2009-03-23T21:25:00.000-07:00

We had a bit of a crazy week and into the weekend. The weather was AWESOME, so one afternoon we took the kids out on the Ranger. We had a blast. As we were coming home, we saw a few deer run right in front of us. (I tried to get a picture, but the sun was going down, and there just wasn't enough light to capture it). The kids thought it was really cool. They haven't seen a deer that close up before.

On Thursday night, I made a deal with Alex. His hair was long and he looked a little..well, mangey. I kept telling him that it was time to cut it. He asked if he could keep it long for Spring pictures that were to be taken on Friday. I said of course, knowing full well that these pictures were not going to be purchased. Deal done. Saturday morning, it was time to cut. I thought I was only doing a trim; I was going for a bit of a faux-hawk look. Didn't work out...at all. So, we went for the Buzzed look. Alex saw it, he sobbed! He wanted all his hair back. I told him to give it a week and it would be just right. So, I put him in the bath and he and Luke played in there for about an hour. When he got out, he looked in the mirror and said, "I really am handsome. I do like my short hair!" I had to agree- I think he looks incredibly handsome with short hair. Here's a before and after.

Before - Not quite sure what to expect...

After - Wow, look at my handsome boy!

This was just a funny picture of Luke that I took. We were out putting up a shed on Saturday. I came in to get something and this is how I found Luke. He makes me laugh. It's also a picture of his cute Buzzed hair. He didn't mind his hair cut as much as Alex. What a good sport!

Notice...there aren't any pictures to post of B from the weekend. She was off with her friends socializing all weekend. I didn't see her much at all on Saturday! Oh to be young again...

Tiny bits of randomness....

2009-03-18T21:09:00.000-07:00

Yowza...I didn't realize this would be the first picture! Not the best of me, but a picture none-the-less! We had a fun afternoon out in the sun playing with friends. After a bit, we kissed dad and sent him off to work. Then, I fired up the Ranger and we went around the neighborhood a few times. We usually picked up one or two neighborhood kids and took them too. I tried to run Maggie next to us for a bit to get her some exercise. (I know, pure laziness on my part!) Didn't work too well. She tried to run in front of us and I was worried I'd run her over. So I put her up front with me and off we went! I love the wind in my hair and spending time with my kiddos on a wonderul Spring day!

Just a random picture of my Maggie-doodle.

Luke and Big Daddy. He stopped home for a bite to eat before heading back out to "fight some crime".

I just love this picture of the boys. Alex is just chillin' lookin' fly with his long hair. (We've been trying for about a month now to get him to cut it. No can do...yet.) And Luke - his sweet little Angelic personality is blazing right through!!

My sweet B.

We started St. Patrick's Day at the Orthodontist. The kids had all the pictures taken of their teeth and these were the last to be done. When I saw them, I burst out laughing. They looked so funny! I had to snap my own picture of this. I'll use it against them when they are about 16!!

As we finished up with the Orthodontist, we were directed to the "Finance Dept". I knew it wouldn't be good... Alex needs "Spacers" - he's been blessed with a very narrow mouth. (You wouldn't think so with all the talking he does!) He has NO room for his K9 teeth to come in and he's been without his front teeth or almost a year now. So, his Orthodontic care will cost us about $700. Not bad, but that's just Phase 1. For B, she will require at some point soon, a full-work up. A full mouth of braces to not only straighten her teeth, but align her jaw as well. Her bill - $4200. Not sure what the Insurance will cover - I am hoping a huge chunk of that. Let's hope for a good tax return this year!

I like to move it, move it

2009-03-16T21:07:00.000-07:00

First off, I gotta say, my kids are totally awesome. Not only are the best thing to ever happen to me, but they make me laugh...all the time. (Except for the times that I want to beat them!)

We bought Madagascar 2 for the kids and under the "Special Features" there are some music videos. Well, as we were going through them, they picked their favorites and we played them over and over. Then they got creative. I looked to do something, and when I looked back up, they had raided my cleaning closet and got out 3 handles off of the broom, the mop, and then the whole Swiffer. They used them as microphones. At least they were resourceful!

This is just a really cute picture of the boys with Maggie. They love our new addition.

Fountain o Knowledge...

2009-03-15T20:53:00.000-07:00

This is B practicing w/ her buzzer..making sure it works.

B just before the "big" competition. (She does look a bit nervous!)

These are the mates on B's team.

We had a big Saturday this weekend. For the last couple of months, B has been going to the school an hour early and practicing for the Knowledge Bowl. Saturday was her big competition. She had to be in Lindon by 8:00 am. (We almost made it on time..we were only about 5 minutes late!) B was very excited to compete this year. It is very competitive as some of the teams have been practicing since last summer. I could tell B was a bit overwhelmed and not quite sure what to expect. So, once the first round got under way, she found her grove. Her coaches said this year was a huge improvement as last year, the team barely even answered any questions. This year, they were at least attempting the questions.

There were 4 rounds of 14 questions w/ an additional bonus question if you answered the first question right. Each round took about 30 minutes. The questions were difficult and they came from a study guide that is given to all the competitors. The topics were related to paintings, and music. There were several questions where they had to listen to a piece of music and name the composer, what type of music it was, and the name of the song. I was so impressed that these kids actually knew the answers! B did a great job in the competition and we are super proud of her.

Out of the mouths of babes...

2009-03-09T18:32:00.000-07:00

We are watching Dancing With The Stars with Luke and Alex.

Alex: She's hot.
Luke: No, she's cold.
Dad: What does she's cold me?
Luke: She's cold like she needs to have warm toys.
Alex: She's hot, like she's pretty and I want to kiss her and marry her.

I love my boys!

What works for one...

2009-03-04T21:39:00.000-08:00

What works for us, may not work for others. I have been asked many times, "what's it like working with your husband?"

Here's the answer. It just works for us. There are some rotations of his shifts where we don't see each other hardly at all.

Then, there are shifts where we get to work several days at the same time. This time, is awesome. I really enjoy this time.

On the days that we do get to work together, we still carry on our usual banter that we share at home; at work, we just understand ALL the inside jokes, instead of having to explain them to everyone else.

At work, I can order him around like he's my employee (like, "get me a drink") and he won't say much because the Chief is just right next door. But, then, he gets to call me his "secretary".

On top of it...we get to not only work together, but we share an office. A small office.

I know what he's thinking, he knows what I am thinking. All it takes is a look.

He's my hero, my best friend, and a co-worker I really like to hang out with!

2009-02-23T21:00:00.000-08:00

I am missing my sister...terribly.

2009-02-23T18:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday B!

B and her gang at the birthday party at Classic Skate. We celebrated her day on Saturday. Her and 10 of her friends went skating and had all sorts of fun. This was her year for a big party and she chose to go roller skating. In addition to the roller skating, she got to go into the "cash blower" (I think that is the name, if not, it is now!)and she got to spin the wheel and get a prize. She had a blast!

(Sorry, I tried for 20 minutes to rotate this picture, but to no avail. So, it is what it is!) The boys had fun too, except when Luke was skating on a couples skate and Alex didn't like that he was out there at all. Here he is, trying to pull Luke off the rink. It made me laugh!

Luke was on the go almost the whole 3 hours we were there!

Nanny, Papa, and Violet

Aunty Julie did a GREAT job on B's SpongeBob cake. B loved it! Julie went the extra mile on this one!!

We all had a great time. B had an awesome 10th birthday!

10 Today

2009-02-18T21:41:00.000-08:00

My girl turned 10 today. It's a happy and sad day. Happy because she is growing into a fantastic young lady. She is developing her talents, she is kind to her brothers (well, most of the time!) and she is just a loving girl who really tries to be a good friend to everyone. The sad part is...she's growing up. It makes it real that I am aging and time is going faster than I can hold on to.

We had a nice day today. We were going to go swimming after school, but had to bag the idea when Alex came home from school with a fever. So, we hung out. I made grilled cheese for dinner - at B's request. We waited for dad to come home so she could open a few presents. Her big party is on Saturday at the skating rink. She and 8 of her friends will get the "Royal" treatment at the rink. She is excited! I am excited to see her face when she opens all her presents. She is getting some good stuff this year!!

I love my girl and I am proud of the young woman she is becoming. As I wipe a tear from my eye...my baby is growing up!

Man...that stinks!

2009-02-09T21:14:00.001-08:00

So we have been a bit boring these past few weeks as we have all been getting over being sick. The most we ventured out was to B's Jr. Jazz game and a movie on Saturday. The rest of the weekend was spent in our lovely home, de-germing, sanitizing, and washing sheets. What a fun weekend. We did however, catch up on a few movies that we had been wanting to see. Top of the list...Madagascar 2. I love that movie. So do the kids. We also rented Igor..haven't worked up enough to watch that with the kids. They watched it though and really enjoyed it. After the kiddies went to bed, me and Kev watched Burn After Reading. Man, that is 2 hours of my life that I will never get back...not my favorite movie. It was weird and not in a good way. In a Fargo-kinda way. Wished I would have done something better with my time! Then, we watched Eagle Eye. Now THIS was a good movie. Kev and I both enjoyed it. It was fun to just snuggle on the couch with a big blanket and watch movies. It's been awhile since we've done that! Sunday we had the in-laws over for dinner. We had a good laugh with them and always enjoy their company.

Other than that, there's nothing going on. I was just sitting here, browsing FaceBook and my dog, Maggie is laying at my feet. She is a great dog. It's been a while since we've had a dog that I "care" a ton about. But, there's something different about Maggie. She just fit in with our family the first 5 minutes we had her. She pushes my buttons on some days, but other days, she's my great protector when Kevin is at work. I love having her in our home. The only down side...she farts. Not only farts, but can CLEAR a room!! It's so bad. I forgot this little gem of information when we went to look at Maggie. Boxers carry this special gift and they use it often. I guess it's the one thing I can over look as she is a great dog. We are buying Fabreeze in bulk now!

I guess tonight is a slow blogging night.

What a ride!

2009-02-04T16:55:00.000-08:00

We have had a busy/fun/hectic past few days. We started with B finishing her book report. She did it on "Diary of a Wimpy Kid". For any parent who has a child that has not been introduced to this book, I highly suggest it. B devoured the book in 2 days. She couldn't put it down! Anyway, she finished her book report w/ a little help from dad. This was her finished project.

Friday treated Alex to a day a vomiting. He woke up and vomited several times. Poor kid. After a few hours though, he was running around. I thought he had eaten something bad. Turns out it wasn't bad food, but a bit of a stomach bug. It hit him again at 3:00 am Saturday morning. He ended up going back to sleep and woke up feeling much better. We, however didn't leave the house just to be sure. Until Kev got off work. By this time, I had already cleaned the house, entertained 3 kids all day, so I needed to get out of the house. And since I had missed FUN FRIDAY at work and our weekly Cafe Rio meal, I had a craving that needed to be filled! (I stayed at home w/ Alex on Friday so Kev didn't miss out on the over-time he had already accrued.)So, we packed the kids up and went to Cafe Rio and dined on my favorite food. Kev got a little bit of food stuck in his teeth. Nice.....it made us laugh.

Friday night...I left the sicko and the wild child with daddy and me and my girl went to the Jazz game. We had a BLAST! We took 2 other girls that played on her Jr. Jazz team with us. We were in the very last row in the upper bowl. But, we could still see the specs running around on the floor..somewhere! It was fun and not bad for free. Because we went with the Jr. Jazz, with our ticket we even got a hot dog and a drink! You can't beat that!! It was a great night out for the girls.

Me and my girl!

B and her girls! (I've never heard so much screaming from 3 little girls...my ears are still ringing!)

This beauty...I just thought was downright funny! I was driving behind a big truck and I looked up and saw this. Struck me funny....

And lastly, we started off our weekend with a me calling Kev on Sunday and begging him to come home because I was not feeling very good. My throat was on fire..again. But this time, I knew it was strep. I was going to go and have it swabbed on Sunday, but of course nothing but the ER is open on a Sunday...and I wasn't about to pay that co-pay!! So, I drugged myself and slept. Kev said he wasn't feeling very good either. By Sunday night, we both had full-blown strep. We decided Monday I would go to the doctor and get enough drugs for all of us. B has also developed a sore throat and a bit of a fever. So, after a painful swab...I even knew I had strep by the 3 large white lumps planted firmly in the back of my throat, my results were in...Yep, I had strep. So I asked the DR. for a prescription for B and Kev. He obliged. (He must understand that we are in a recession!) So, me and Kev (well..mostly Kev) fought the kids all day from our death bed. The boys were going stir crazy! So were we. Thank goodness there was no school on Monday. We didn't do a darn thing. Tuesday we were granted a little piece of heaven...and undisturbed rest by Kevin's awesome parents. Not only did they come and bring us meals, but they entertained the kids, let us sleep, and disinfected the house! What a blessing and a huge help! We are so grateful for their generosity and unselfish acts. I love and appreciate their willingness to serve and it is much appreciated. So, back to work it was today for me and Kev. I had the better end of the deal though..I only had to go for a few hours. Kev's on for 12. We were both worn out just getting ready for work. Oh well..at least we are feeling a lot better today than we have in the past few. Our conversation was something like this, this morning. Me: "Do you remember much of the last couple of days?" Kev:" Nope". Me:" Me either...maybe that's a good thing." Here's to the worst sickness we've had in our house in a long time!

100 Days

2009-01-28T21:29:00.000-08:00

Yea...it's 100 days of school. Alex got to make a poster that will be hung up at school for a few weeks. It could be anything that could fit 100 things of on the poster. So, being the super-cool mom that I am, I found these little foam sea creatures. So, last night as a family, we sat down and peeled and stuck 100 foam sea creatures to the poster. Here's the final product. He did a great job and was excited that we all pitched in to help. He's such a great kid and I can't believe he's half way done with first grade. Boy, time really flies!

FHE Done Right!

2009-01-26T19:57:00.000-08:00

Do we know how to do FHE right or what?? After a gourmet meal of hot dogs, cereal, and pineapple, we watched a little America's Funniest Home Videos. Then, we broke out the new BB gun and got down to business. We had a bit of a shoot-off. B won. She has the natural shooting ability. Luke did a great job with a little help from dad. Alex just held the gun and shot it. (He almost shot the window...if dad hadn't lined it up a bit better for him first!) Me and Kev were about even. It was a fun night! Oh yeah...the best part...we were shooting in the basement...with an old diaper box that is lined with wood, cardboard, and some old jeans. Man, do we live in Eagle Mountain or what??!! One word for you...AWESOME!

Popeye Luke's shot

My shot

Big Daddy's shot

On-Target B's shot

Random Alex's shot

Good times!

Great Quote

2009-01-21T21:49:00.000-08:00

“Other things may change us, but we start and end with family”

Can you dig it??

2009-01-15T20:02:00.000-08:00

Me and Kev got to get out tonight for a date night. (Thanks Auntie Debbie and Uncle Paul!) We went to see Gran Torino (or as Alex calls it...Grandpa Reno!) and then to; where else?? Cafe Rio. We went with some of our friends. It was fun. It's always fun to have a date with my sugar daddy!

CLASSIC SKATE NIGHT W/ THE SCHOOL...
Every couple of months, the kids school has a fund-raising night at the skating rink. I LOVE to go skating. We have a fun time and the kids always sleep really well after we are done! Plus I get a good workout in too. Me and B skated, and Luke and Alex rode their scooters. Well, Luke went around a couple of times, then I pushed him around. It was fun.

Me and my date....since dad was at work.

B and Alex

Alex...he cracks me up. I went to ask him if he wanted to skate w/ me on the first "couples skate". Much to my dismay...he was already out skating with a little girl from his class. He's such a ladies man. Must take after his dad!

My mom and dad worked really hard on these quilts for the kids. They made 11 quilts for all the grand kids. Each quilt had a few pieces of jeans that were my sisters. It was a labor of love! B uses hers a lot and is very sentimental about having it. They turned out great and are keeping all the kids warm while we are freezing our buns off this winter!

I just thought this was a super cute picture of Luke and Maggie. Maggie has quickly become a part of our family. We all love her and she is fitting well with us. (It's about time!!)

The wheels are always spinning.

2009-01-08T20:32:00.000-08:00

I usually blog about family stuff, but this one is about me. These are a few random thoughts that I have been having and needed a place to write them down.

I was in my car the other night, and I pulled over for a minute to do something since the weather was terrible and I didn't want to explain a crash to Kev. As I was sitting there, I was going over some things in my mind. A song came on the radio and it's been playing over and over in my head the past few days.

Now everybody stands up
The congregation sings
It's a song of sweet forgiveness
And as the chorus rings
The wind blows clear my memory
The pages start to turn
Then suddenly I'm singin'
The moment that I learn

One of these days I'm gonna love me
And feel the joy of sweet release
One of these days, I'll rise above me
And at last I'll find some peace
Then I'm gonna smile a little
Maybe even laugh a little but
One of these days I'm gonna love me

Funny how when you are listening, you hear the things you are supposed to.

The wheels are always spinning in my head these days. I had someone ask me, why do you think you are here? What is your big purpose to be here? I said, "I have no idea." It really caught me off guard, being asked that. I have been thinking a lot about that too. I know I am here to be a mother, a wife, a daughter, a sister, and a friend. I am sure there is more; there's a lot for me to still learn. I did have a moment when I was sitting in Primary with my class last Sunday (I teach the 10 year olds - B's class!) and I was listening to the songs that I haven't sang myself for years. A thought popped into my head....Be like a little child and go back to the basics again. So, that's what I am working on right now. I know it's a process and I am really trying to be open to hear the direction and the words that I need to hear right now. Steady the course for now...

Fun, Fun, Fun

2009-01-02T22:06:00.000-08:00

What a doosie!! Kev would like you to think that he "duked" out a few bad guys and walked away with only this beauty, but...the harsh reality is..a barricade got the best of him. He was trying to release it, and it popped up and got him right in the eye. No long term damage, just this sweet shiner. (It was getting to be about time for another work-related injury!!) He's making a full recovery, and milking it for all it's worth. (He does look pretty tough though!!)

Next up...SNOW DAY!! We finally got ourselves together and took the kids sledding on New Year's Day. It was a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. The kids have been begging us to go and it was finally bearable outside to go. So, we bundled up and headed out... it was awesome. Our kids are...fearless. They grabbed the sleds and they were gone.

Here's the BIG kids...we had a few good runs too.

Luke was hillarious...he was determined to sled...with our without a ride down. He has a butt..why not make the most of it!

Here he is on the sled that Grandpa restored for him for his birthday. He loved it!! We watched him go down...his arms were stretched out to the sides...he wasn't holding on as he was flying down the hill. We could hear him laughing though.

B and her friend were sledding too. She was on another little hill and cruising as fast as she could go as well. She found the hill with a jump...

Here's are biggest dare-devil. He couldn't get back up the hill fast enough. He'd just get going, then dump himself over the edge and roll down the rest of the way. His cheeks were bright red by the time we were done. We wore them all out!!

We had a great time sledding with the kids. It was some great family time well spent! Now that the kids have all the "proper" snow gear...I guess we'll have to take them more. It was fun and I have to say...we made it with no injuries. (Quick,knock on wood!!) Even better, we were the only ones on the hill. Mom and dad weren't so paranoid. We even jumped on the sleds and had a couple of runs ourselves. We even got a bit of a workout in!

Happy New Year's Eve

2008-12-31T09:46:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's Eve... may tomorrow bring a New Year, New Start, and a much better freakin' year! Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas and Happy Boxing Day!

2008-12-29T21:20:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas and Boxing Day. Christmas day was full of family fun and memories. Alex woke us up promptly at 6:00 am, literally shaking with anticipation and excitement. We told him he had to go back to bed for about 30 more minutes. That lasted for about 10. So, we figured we would just get up and get on with it. It was a lot of fun. We had Kevin's parents and his sister and her hubby spend the night. (Thanks Santa for sending the helper elves...we got our wrapping done really fast this year!!!)Our pictures from Christmas are on our camera and I haven't had a chance to download them, so I'll post them later. We had a wonderful Christmas dinner, watched movies, and after the family left for their homes; me, Kev, and the kids headed down to the basement for 2 hours of Guitar Hero World Tour. It was awesome. Good times. Here's a few pictures from the rest of our long holiday.

The day after Christmas is an English holiday called Boxing Day. Basically, we get together with family and friends and eat, and eat, and eat. (As if we didn't eat enough on Christmas!! Now we get to eat all the leftovers!) We went to the Turner's/Lemen's for dinner and some fun on Debbie and Paul's Wii. It was a lot of fun. The family made a lovely dinner and we over ate...again! Here's a picture of Wade's little girl. (Side note... the crown on our heads... they are courtesy of the Christmas Crackers. Basically, it's a rolled TP container that's wrapped, and you pull the ends and it "pops" and inside there is a little gift, a paper crown, and a joke. The funny part is, on Christmas Day, Sandra brought some over and we popped them open. Paul got a shoe horn. On Boxing Day, we popped open our Crackers, and Paul got...a shoe horn. What are the chances of that?? It was pretty funny. It made me laugh. Luke got a bottle opener and Julie got a cork-screw. We all had another good laugh.)We all sit around with our crowns on our head. It's awesome to see! It's a family tradition...one of my favorites.

Me and Violet

The kids with their Cracker Crowns. (Prying them away from the Wii for a few minutes to snap a picture.)

I wanted to keep this cute little graham cracker house that Alex made, but it wasn't going to happen. So, I told him I'd take a picture. So, here it is. He made it at his 1st grade Christmas Party. He did a great job.

Kevin snapped this picture today while I was at work. I had to post it. I thought it was so cute. I love my boys!

Amidst all of the festivities, after the tree was down and all the decorations put away, and the house clean...I decided to take a "day off"!! I asked one of my girlfriends if she wanted to go to Park City and check out the Clearance deals. Of course, she was on board! We left at about noon, and didn't get back til 6:30 pm. We left all the kids w/ the hubbies and made a run for it. It was great. We had a wonderful time looking at all the shops. We stopped first at Wilson Leather and I found this beauty...calling out to me!! I was pretty excited to find it. I love it. Even better because it was discounted so much...it was actually cheap!

And lastly, we said farewell to Miley. We found a lovely family that had a Jack Russell already and were looking for a friend for their dog. So, we let her go to this family. The funny thing is...no one was even sad to see her go. I didn't even feel bad because they had a Jack Russell... they knew what they were getting! B stayed at Debbie's house, and we took the boys w/ us to go and meet the family and drop Miley off. I asked B if she was sad that she didn't get to say bye to Miley. Her response..."no, not really." I guess Miley wasn't quite the fit we had wanted for our family. No more dogs for us for awhile!

Anyway, we hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas too. I am already looking for presents for next year. We want to wish everyone a safe and Happy New Year!!

Update

2008-12-22T14:41:00.000-08:00

We have had such a busy couple of weeks, as I am sure everyone has. I guess that's just the season that we are in right now. To start off our holiday season, we started with our work party that me, and the other 2 girls I work with, planned and decorated for. It was a lot of work, but it turned out really nice. We were all glad when it was over!!
Up next, our Ward Christmas Party. (Sorry, I don't have any pictures!!)I am on the Activities committee, so it was another party that I helped plan, set up for and cleaned up after. It again, was a lot of work but it turned out really nice. I know the kids had fun!

This is me and B at our ward RS Christmas night. We got to invite our girls. We decorated Christmas cookies, made gift tags, ate some really yummy food, and made Angel halo's. It was a lot of fun and I love the opportunities that I get once in awhile to spend a little mom-daughter-time with B. She's growing up faster that I am ready to admit. We had a great time.

This one is kinda random, but it was really funny. I went upstairs for a minute and came down to see Luke with his shirt off, eating a Push-Pop, and rocking back and forth to the music that was on the TV. I laughed hard when I saw him. He just stood there, smiling away at me, like he was doing something he did all the time. (He's never done it since!!) I thought it was a cute picture moment.

On one of Kevin's days off (the have been rare these past few weeks!) We went to the mall to do a little shopping. We promised Luke a ride on the Carousel if he was really good. Well, he was really good, so he got to go twice. He loved it! Here's a picture of my boys.

And lastly, yes, that is Neil Diamond. Me and Kev got invited to his concert last minute on Friday. So, I quickly canceled Book Club (sorry girls!!) and we found a babysitter and braved the newly dusted-with-snow roads and headed up to SLC to see the show. It was fantastic! He rocked out for 2 hours straight and I gotta say...he still looks pretty good! There was a train wreck of a couple sitting a couple rows down from us. I had a hard time deciding which show to watch... they were pretty comical! I thought for sure, at one point, the girl was going to go right over the railing. She was dancing away, leaning WAY over. Her date for the night...had his shirt all the way unbuttoned and was totally in the Neil Diamond zone. Never thought Neil would have groupies...I guess he does! Anyway, back to the story. So, we met up with our friends and enjoyed a great date night. It was much needed for both of us!

On Saturday, we went to see the Temple lights with some of our close friends and their kids. It was COLD, but fun. We rode Trax for a couple of blocks as well, so the boys were pretty excited to ride on the train. After the lights, we went over to this yummy bakery and warmed up with some hot chocolate and goodies. We had a great night. It was fun "family" time.

And last night, we went over to some of our other friends and had dessert with them. Almost all the kids are the same age, and they were excited to play with some friends they hadn't seen for awhile. I guess our social calendar has been a little full these past few days. Tis' the season!!

As for today...cleaning the house, wrapping presents, and getting ready for family to come for the holiday. We are looking forward to spending some quality time with our family and friends.

Rings for sale

2008-12-15T20:39:00.001-08:00

Rings for sale! My sister-in-law Cristie is selling these super cute/original rings. She sent me one for my birthday and I LOVE it and have received so many compliments on it. I talked her into selling some! Each ring is custom made to fit your finger size and with which ever color beads you want. She can do beads on the back or these silver glass beads. (They won't tarnish.) They are very comfortable to wear and bend with your finger. Email her with your order, ring size, and color of beads. Her email is cristie_t@hotmail.com. The cost is $25, which will include shipping. The turn-around time is pretty quick. Any other questions, drop her a line! These are great b-day gifts, Mother's Day gifts, anytime gifts. They are unique and super cute.

B's Selfless Act....

2008-12-15T17:56:00.000-08:00

Today was the day. A few weeks ago, B decided she wanted to cut her hair again (this is the 2nd time)and donate it to Locks of Love. So, we measured her hair, and it was long enough to donate. Over the past few weeks, we have been talking about the choice she was making and why she was making it. She said that she wanted to donate her hair because she is fortunate enough to be able to grow her hair long enough and fairly quick. (She cut 13 inches off last time she donated - just under 2 years ago.) She also said that the reason she grows her hair long now is so that she has the opportunity to give it to others that don't have hair. She has made this choice on her own and very selflessly. She is such an example of giving something and expecting nothing in return. She is our sweet girl with a heart of gold!