A View Thru Many Lenses

Girls Weekend!!

2009-11-16T09:03:00.008-07:00

I have been a terrible blogger lately! I haven't had the time for my own blog let alone to look at anyone else's blog. Sigh.

Oh well, I did have a fun weekend though! Unfortunately I completely forgot to take any pictures. Bad Kami. (Slap the hand.) We started out our night Friday with a dip in my mother in law's hot tub.

Can you say ahhhhhhhh. So relaxing. It was absolutely FREEZING outside but who cares when you're in bubbling hot water?

Of course we did facials and nails. You have to do that on girls night right??

Our night fell on Friday the 13th so we had to stay up really late watching scary movies. By really late I mean 4:00 a.m. You can say that I was tired the next day!

We got up the next morning to put highlights in my cousins hair. It's something that I have always been too chicken to do. One of these days I will have to try it! Now we were ready for a day of shopping, eating Mexican, and watching a movie!

Collin was the only boy allowed to come. He was so excited to watch the new Christmas Carol movie in 3D. He kept saying, "Whoa!" and reaching out in front of him. It was so cute! Carlee fell asleep in my lap. I just about nodded off too since I was so beat! It really was a cute movie. I loved the animation and how they kept the story more true to the book.

Sunday my mom, Tina and I played the new Band Hero game. We had such a blast! They even have a section where everyone can just sing along. We all sang a few songs together and ended up singing YMCA a couple of times so Collin could do the hand motions and dance. It's an awesome game for get togethers!

Thank you to Dee, Kaitlyn, mom, and Tina!!! We definitely need more girls only days!!

Oh what a week...

2009-11-05T12:15:00.003-07:00

This week it feels like I have

just been go, go, go!!

Monday

I left work early to head over to Idaho Falls to my doctor's appointment. I found out that my stage 4 sleep is only 50%. For those of you that don't know, stage 4 is your deepest sleep. You know, the time you're almost in a coma with drool coming out of your mouth? Anyways, he told me that in order to obtain better deep sleep I would have to fit excercise into my life. Hmmm...how am I going to do that? I should have got a prescription for more hours in the day.

Tuesday

Not too long after I got to work I got a phone call from Carlee's teacher that she had puked twice in her classroom. Yippee, I think. Just what I need. So I go grab the little sweetie (who looked miserable at school but as soon as she left she was bouncing off the walls) and called her grandma to come and get her. After work the kids and I snarffed down some cereal and got ready to head to the church. I am one of the activity days leaders in our ward. The girls are so stinkin' adorable! I love that job. When I got home I had to hurry and bake a cake for our cake decorating class the next day. By then I was so tired and in pain so I just collapsed on the couch.

Wednesday

Wednesday I leave at 2:30 instead of 5:00 since I've been going to work earlier. It's a good thing too since I still had to make the frosting and frost my cake. Not to mention clean up my kitchen! We learned how to make buttercream roses. First time I've tried.

So fun! I loved making these.

With practice I'm sure I'll get better.

Chocolate = good!!

I left class early to race to the kids parent teacher conferences. They are both improving in school so it was a good visit. Gotta love that as a mom!

(Collin, Gunner, and Ben)

After that we raced over to Collin's very first den meeting. How cute are these tiger cubs!! They are so fun to be around. I am so psyched to be cubmaster for them. I also love their moms. They are so supportive to the boys and willing to help out. It makes me so happy when people cooperate together for such a wonderful scouting program.

Thursday

Today I am soooo tired. Miss Carlee kept us up. She didn't go to bed until late because of her eczema. Then she woke up at 1:00 with a soaked diaper. Aargh! I got her cleaned up and back in bed. Of course she tried to sneak into our room again at 4:00. Double aargh!

I'm going to sneak out of work at 3:30 for my cousin Kaitlyn's basketball game. She is so fun to watch! After work my cousin Dee is bringing a movie over for some girl time. Hope she doesn't mind a kitchen full of frosting mess! I haven't had time to get it all cleaned up yet. That's on the agenda tonight too.

Friday

I can't wait for Friday! So far I don't have any plans. Woo hoo!

Saturday

Relief society in the a.m., cleaning in the middle, and serving at a wedding reception at night. I have a feeling that by Sunday all I will want to do is this:

Actually that sounds good right now!!

Alas, it's back to work I go...

Carnival and Costumes!

2009-11-02T08:56:00.005-07:00

Friday night was carnival night! I had to work in the fish pond from 6:00 until closing and I was so excited to be assigned to that one! All the little ones always come to that booth.

Collin had to try it...

...and got a sticky eyeball. Ew!

Kaitlyn helped Carlee get a little koala bear.

Collin tried his hand out at the ring toss but didn't make it to win a pop. Like he needs more sugar anyways, LOL.

Carlee's favorite game is digging for treasure. Her teacher Mrs. Snyder is behind her in the prison outfit.

Saturday we all got ready for some trick or treat fun!!

Eric and Collin were the army brats!

Carlee and I were the sailor sweeties!

I tried to sneak a nice kiss but all I got was tounge. She is just like her daddy!

So fun to dress up!

Tina and my mom were spooky ghosts.

Miss Kaitlyn was an adorable tootsie roll and my cousin Dee was a "scary" witch.

Those army boys sure love us sailor girls!

We had a very fun night! I just love Halloween!!

Friday Fill Ins

2009-10-30T12:34:00.007-06:00

1. It was a dark and stormy night, Halloween night to be precise. It is the night of ghouls and deamons, spooks, and scary noises that go bump in the night. I cast my gaze out the window eagerly awaiting my cousin Annabel. Tonight we were going to settle in with some spooky movies and popcorn. A slight movement caused me to shift my gaze to the left. I stopped breathing when I saw two bright green eyes staring at me.

2. Visions of monsters formed in my brain. The green eyes started coming closer as I threw the curtains closed. My heart pounded in my chest as the doorbell rang. Since when do monsters ring door bells??

"Come on let me in! I'm getting soaked out here!" Annabel's voice shouted through the door. My cousin! I sighed with relief as I unlocked the door and let her in. We had a good laugh when I told her I thought she was a monster. "So are you ready for a scare fest or are you too scared already?" She smirked as she headed to the DVD player. Ha, ha, I thought.

Halfway through the first movie Annabel sat straight up and covered her mouth with her hand. "I totally forgot to bring Michael his books! He said he had to have them for a report due Monday!" Michael lived only two doors down and Annabel was still trying to dry out so I offered to take the books myself.

3. Rushing out, I tucked the books under my raincoat so they wouldn't get completely soaked by the relentless rain.

4. I was almost to Michaels house when I slid to a stop on the slippery sidewalk. I stammered to myself,"...I think I heard a howl!" I turned around and saw the bush I just passed shaking unnaturally. Luckily for me Micheal saw me coming and motioned for me to come inside. I didn't hesitate as I raced into his house and headed immediately to the window. I pressed my face against the glass waiting for a werewolf to pop out any second.

5. "Shhhh..." I whispered to Michael. "There's something outside your house." I then turned to look at Michael and instantly my fear was calmed for a moment as I saw his ridiculous disguise.

6. "What, you don't like my mask?" He gasped in pretended offense as he wiggled his eyebrows up and down. I just shook my head and smiled until a light knock sounded on his door. All silliness was whisked away as I remembered what could be right outside the door. Michael ran to the door and threw it open before I could stop him.

"No!!" I shouted. All I saw was teeth and fur as I slammed the door with all my might and turned the lock. "What in the world are you doing?" Michael questioned, looking at me dumbfounded. I just opened my mouth to answer him when I heard a childs muffled voice yelling, "Hey! Trick or treat and give me something good to eat!" I just groaned as I sheepishly opened the door to reveal a child in a werewolf mask. Michael gave the boy a handful of candy as I sputtered out an apology.

"Oops, guess my imagination got the best of me," I shrugged. Michael just laughed as I handed him the books and quickly stepped back out into the pouring rain. "I have got to stop scaring myself just because it's Halloween." I whispered to myself as I made my way home. "That's the last time I get spooked tonight." One pair of shining green eyes watching me from a bush however didn't agree...

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to the Elementary school's Halloween carnival, tomorrow my plans include goofing off and going trick or treating with the kids and Sunday, I want to catch up on cleaning and sneaking the kids candy!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-28T22:00:00.005-06:00

Pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere!

2009-10-28T12:01:00.003-06:00

This weekend we got some of the family together for Mexican food and pumpkin carving!

Everyone had a different pattern and it was so fun to see their creations.

Kaitlyn found out she was allergic to the "pumpkin guts" as she gutted hers out.

I just love Halloween preparations!!

Here is Tauna with her "batty" creation.

I was busy working on ol' Mr. Frank.

Mom wanted to do a dragon on her pumpkin. Sorry it didn't work out ma! Her paper got messed up halfway through the process.

Here's a cute little boy making a Halloween candy necklace.

Carlee was really getting into the spirit of things as she drew on her mini pumpkin!

Collin is so proud of his pumpkin face!

Here's a close up of Carlee's pumpkin.

And Collin's!

Here's my flaming skull of death. Mwah ha ha!

I loved Frankenstein!! Kisses!! Hee hee...

Anyways, thanks fam for the fun night.

Dee I hope you get your pumpkin finished today!!

Can't wait for Halloween!

Rawr!!

2009-10-21T12:38:00.007-06:00

It all started out innocently enough

with a simple flier in my sons backpack.

Before I knew it I was signing Collin up to be a tiger cub in the Boy Scouts of America program.

And me? I am now Akela. Cubmaster Akela to be precise. The job is going to take alot of responsibility, time, effort and planning.

I have been getting a lot of flack for volunteering to this program but I am so excited! It has been so fun seeing how excited the boys are. I organized our very first pack meeting on the 17th. Collin was super excited to wear his uniform and was bouncing off the walls. He helped me so much getting ready for the meeting. What a sweetie!! He colored, cut, hung and placed up most of the decorations. I could not have done it without him. Plus Eric helped me set up too which was so nice! He would be a good cub scout leader. I'm trying to convince him of that, hee hee! We will be starting our first den meeting the beginning of next month. We only have 3 tiger cubs but Collin is working hard trying to recruit some more!

I'll have to post a picture of Collin and I in our awesome uniforms later. I forgot to take pictures of our first meeting. Wish our tiny troop success! I might need the extra encouragement. I'm looking forward to having fun with the boys and learning new skills. Yea for fun boyish scout activities I never got to do because of being a girl!

Krazy Kids!!

2009-10-13T12:41:00.002-06:00

I felt something like a string touch my arm. I ignored it and pressed forward. As I walked further I felt a new sensation on my arm; something that felt like eight tiny legs. I frantically brushed off the black creepy invader that dared touch me and ran screaming up the stairs like a baby. Yes, I am a baby when it comes to spiders. They give me the willies!! This is why I had my husband rescue our Halloween crates from the black widow infested basement.

As I was going through the decorations my kids were out of control excited. They wanted to pull everything out and set it up right away! They found a couple of witch hats and immediately had to model them for me.

They go perfectly with PJ's and pink rain boots don't you think?

Carlee's eczema was so bad that day, the poor babe!

Dancing up some trouble!

Where did that cute witch go??

There she is!!

What a face!
My kids are krazy.
Krazy hilarious!

My baby is 4!!

2009-10-09T15:22:00.002-06:00

Oh I can't believe that my baby is 4 years old! She's getting old enough that people think I'm strange for still calling her my baby. I don't think moms ever outgrow calling their babies "babies" though do they??

Thanks everyone for coming out and sharing Carlee's last minute party. I wasn't really in the mood to even throw a party in the first place. Unusual for me I know. Oh well, I'm certainly glad that we had some family there to share in Carlee's tragic fast ending of number 3.

My mother did such an awesome job in decorating the cake! (see slideshow below). Carlee absolutely loved it! Grandpa and daddy were in the basement and Carlee couldn't wait for them to come up. She devoured the whole fence on one side of the cake in about two seconds flat. The fence was white chocolate and boy did she enjoy it. I should have had that on video. It was too cute.

Anyways, thanks everyone for coming over to celebrate with us. Carlee, happy birthday!! We love you!!

2009-10-09T15:20:00.001-06:00

Alma

2009-10-06T09:33:00.000-06:00

I was very excited to review Heather B. Moore's latest novel titled "Alma". This book continues the story from her previous book titled "Abinadi". Once I read that book I was hooked! Heather is one of those authors that writes with such passion that you can't help but fall in love with her characters. You'll end up begging for more when the last chapter ends.

Her characters jump off the pages with raw emotion and conviction. Get ready to experience a tilt-a-whirl of emotions including heartache, joy, hatred, suffering and elation. This is truly an inspirational book!

Synopsis from Seagull Book:

King Noah is thundering with rage. The former high priest Alma has vanished from the city of Nephi, and every night more of his believers manage to escape. The king blames Amulon and threatens certain punishment unless Amulon recaptures Alma-a seemingly impossible task. But Amulon has a plan. An equally valuable prisoner is at his fingertips: Noah's wife, Maia, whose newfound faith means bitter humiliation for the king and an opportunity for Amulon to seize power.

Amulon's disavowed daughter Raquel has plans of her own. Despite her grief, she is determined to begin a new life in the colony Alma and his followers are building. When Lamanites plunder and burn her settlement, Raquel and her young son are forced to flee to the waters of Mormon.

Drama and danger escalate as Alma the Elder organizes the Lord's Church and baptizes its members, bringing an outpouring of divine grace and power. But even as they rejoice, the believers have profound and perilous trials to face, from the outward threat of Amulon's treachery to the inward threat of pride and disobedience. With poignant emotion, gripping suspense, and rich inspiration, this new epic story from H.B. Moore vividly brings the Book of Mormon to life.

I have always adored books based on historical fiction. H.B. Moore not only brings the Book of Mormon characters to life, she captures the imagination. It's truly fascinating to read what the early prophets may have acted like. I was actually inspired to pick up the Book of Mormon and study. Any book that can inspire readers to more faithful aspirations must be a powerfully written book indeed!

This was a delightful, enticing read and I can't wait to read "Alma the Younger" next fall!

To nominate Alma for a 2009 Whitney Award click here.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-30T07:13:00.004-06:00

Signs of the Terrible Threes.

2009-09-29T09:08:00.002-06:00

My sweet innocent Carlee passed by the terrible two's. I thought I would be home free and skip the whole ordeal. But, alas, she has moved into the even scarier Terrible Threes!! Eeek!

This is Carlee right now:

Throwing tantrum after tantrum! She has the whole arm crossing, pouty lip, and "Huh, hmmmp" thing going on. I guess she learned it from the best. She sees Collin doing the same thing and just has to copy him.

Attitude. What a diva! If she doesn't get her way she screams and cries.

Blaming her brother for things he didn't do. She'll come over to me bawling, point to Collin and say, "Him!" This is after watching them and seeing Collin do nothing to her. Onery!

Refuses to use the potty. She's only actually peed on the potty a couple of times. She throws a tantrum if we try to get her to sit on it. Then she lies when I ask her if she is poopy.

Thinks everything is hers. Mine! Mine! Mine! Enough said.

Doesn't want to do her work at school. Aye, aye, aye. She throws a fit in class if the teacher actually makes her work. Such a hard life to draw straight lines. She does a little better if she gets to sit by her favorite girl in class for some reason though.

Carlee is almost four and I hope she grows out of this stage soon. Momma needs Calgon to take her away!! Just kiddin'. Love you Carlee!

People are so funny...

2009-09-28T14:10:00.004-06:00

I just had to laugh this morning when a gentleman came up to my window in my office. He was asking a few questions about our town while his wife was in the E.R. He said, "That main street, is that it?" Yes sir. We are a small town.

He then commented how we had no lakes. Do we need a lake in every town? People would be a whole lot crowded if there was less dry land to build on. He just seemed amazed that people would actually live in a small town. Well, I actually like my small town. Give me less traffic any day!

Friday Fill Ins

2009-09-25T11:56:00.003-06:00

1. One week ago seems so long ago. It seems weeks have gone by since then.

2. I've learned a lot since when I was young. If only I knew what I know now back then!

3. Mama told me how to make her yummiest recipes. Thank you!

4. This is just between you and me. My Dove chocolate moment for the day is, "Life may change us, but we start and end with family."

5. Take your time when sampling Dove dark chocolate squares. Hmmm...I should be a Dove spokesman. Enjoy the smooth, creamy, melt in your mouth flavor!

6. Sadness will pass! I hope...

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to picking up Collin early from school, tomorrow my plans include who knows and Sunday, I want to rest and try to come to grips with my life!

Wanna play? Go here.

The Cuties

2009-09-24T23:21:00.003-06:00

My happy place is...

...where my children are.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-23T11:59:00.003-06:00

Mommy Priorities.

2009-09-22T14:59:00.008-06:00

Have you noticed that once you become a mommy your life takes a drastic change? Instead of personal time spent on recreation and leisure you become a whirlwind of parental duties and diapers. I get completely worn out by the days end. I guess that's why I passed out last night on the couch.

Carting the kids to and from school, activities, homework, fixing dinner, packing lunches and getting clothes ready for school, scrounging up show and tells, etc. all has me on a non-stop roller coaster screaming for a halt.

I remember the days of pre-mommihood. I definitely had more time for:

Reading novels whenever I felt the desire. Now my reading is done late at night or not at all.

Writing and dreaming up stories. I used to spend hours and hours thinking up new plots and short stories. Now I find myself to be too mentally exhausted to write anything except this blog.

Socializing with buds and pursuing interests. I really miss my carefree college days and our 11:00 p.m. ice cream runs to Albertson's. Hanging out in the boys dorms just listening to music and talking or going to the hot springs with my roommate was so fun! I also used to scrapbook a lot. Now I do all of my scrapbooking online. I really need to make time for scrapbooking and friends again.

Long luxurious bubble baths by candlelight. I used to soak forever with chocolate in one hand, a book in the other. Heaven on earth! Now if it's not the kids bugging me it's the hubby.

Eating out in restaurants. Well, I still eat out in restaurants when I go shopping but there is a lot more whining, uneaten food, and McDonald's involved.

Having more money. We spend a fortune on diapers for my daughter that still doesn't want to use the potty. School supplies, the never ending replacement of holey jeans, snacks for school, sports and scouts, and the necessities of raising two kids can really kill the pocketbook!

Despite all of this I still wouldn't trade being a mommy for all the money in the world. They are my life, my joy, my every happiness. Seeing their smiling faces makes my heart want to literally burst from joy. I love their strong personalities and the off-the wall comments they come up with.

Collin is growing into an active, social, kind-hearted little boy. He is sensitive of others and it pains him to see anyone get hurt. He loves everyone. He tries hard to please others, especially his teacher at school. I just love him so much! He is such a special boy.

Carlee is learning to communicate better and to be active with her peers. She is also getting more strong willed every day which could be good or bad, depending on the situation. She is so sweet though when she comes up to me out of the blue to give me a hug and say, "I love you!" It melts any frustration away. She is mommy's sweetheart.

My kids are my world and I would be devastated if any tragedy ever befell them. They are so beautiful and the closest thing to angels on earth. I love you guys!! Thank you for letting me be your mommy. I treasure you always.

Talk Like a Pirate Day!

2009-09-21T13:25:00.002-06:00

Aaaaaarg! My little shipmates love to celebrate "Talk Like a Pirate Day"! They love a good excuse to talk like scalawags and dress up like pirates.

This year we made Cornish hens, biscuits, corn, and grog. Non-alcoholic grog of course!

Aaaaaarg! A pirate I be!

In retrospect, I probably should have got Carlee dressed or at least brushed her hair before taking her picture. Oh well, she'd fit right in on a pirate ship with her unkempt wild hairdo.

Collin loved the grog the best! We mixed Mtn. Dew (I know, but I was out of 7-up), cranberry juice, sour apple juice and frozen cranberry pirate ice cubes. The kids especially loved their pirate umbrellas.

Carlee kept saying, "Ummmm....chicken!"

Collin enjoyed his hen legs but wouldn't eat his body.

"That be a good chicken bone!"

Collin shared their umbrella with his skeleton friend. He enjoyed his brief stay at the "beach".

We ended up our adventure with Pirapple cupcakes.

They were really yummy! You can find the recipe on my food blog.
Thanks for the fun night kids!

Friday Fill Ins

2009-09-18T09:00:00.003-06:00

1. That's a bad place to be. Just seeing the bathroom and someone is taking their sweet time. C'mon I gotta go!

2. Hey home depot worker; I'm over here! So hard to find good help in there.

3. The possibilities include: carrots or pumpkins. Which recipe to use first? Probably the carrots so they don't go bad.

4. Anything Mexican is one of my favorite cool day recipes. Mexican food is great 365 days of the year though!

5. How will you know what to get the kids for Christmas? I like to buy early but then again I kind of have to wait and see what the kids request from Santa. I hate waiting...

6. Hot chocolate and a stormy sky.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to attending my sleep study: NOT! but I am looking forward to some shopping alone time, tomorrow my plans include making a Walmart trip in the wee hours of the morning, traveling home, and enjoying some "Talk like a pirate day" fun with the kids and Sunday, I want to enjoy the Primary program and see if my kids will actually sing, catch up on some housework, and relax!

Can't wait for Halloween!!

2009-09-17T07:02:00.004-06:00

I am so excited that Halloween is just around the corner! I am already starting on my Halloween recipes. Check out these Wizard hats Collin and I made last night. They were beyond yummy! I needed to make more though because by the time the hubby got home they were gone. Oopsi! Sorry honey. You probably wouldn't want to take Wizard hats to work anyways. I could just see you getting teased!

(recipe on my food blog)

Anyways, I thought I'd share a few links of my favorite Halloween recipe spots. Just type in "halloween" in the search box. I can't wait to start experimenting with more spooky recipes. Enjoy!

Family Fun
Bright Ideas
Hershey's
Better Homes and Gardens
Better Crocker
Food Network
Taste of Home

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-16T14:52:00.001-06:00

Get ready for Autumn days!

2009-09-14T15:06:00.005-06:00

The first day of Autumn is almost here!
I'm so excited!

Fall makes my cravings for the sweet spicy smell of apple cider to waft through my kitchen. It tantalizes the senses, soothing the soul on a crisp fall evening.

The leaves start their dramatic change into a striking array of bright colors.

As they swirl to the ground later in the season the inevitable "crunch" can be heard underfoot. The sound reminds me of my youth as I longed to jump into a huge piles of leaves. I still do!

Pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere! The season beckons them to get ready to be baked, carved, painted and decorated.

Apple picking season will be in full swing. Oh how I long to be near an orchard!

Scrumptious pies will be served to many smiling faces. Their aroma daring you to eat only one slice...

Of course we can't forget about Halloween! Second only to Christmas (in my opinion) the holiday provides fun and laughter to all ages. Scary decor, ghoulish treats and and a good excuse to play dress up are my favorites!

Yea fall!!

Hey there Delilah (I'm at the MTC)

2009-09-09T14:59:00.001-06:00

Blackfoot Fair

2009-09-09T10:20:00.001-06:00

We can never stop by the fair without visiting the petting zoo. The kids get crazy excited to pet the roaming animals.

Mostly roaming were goats...

...and more goats.

Carlee loved the donkey and kept calling it, "Horsie!"

I wish we could have held the baby piglets but mama was very protective. Not to mention they were behind a fence.

Collin thought they were, "So cute!"

More goats, or maybe the same one? I think Carlee was fascinated.

We all loved the turtles!

They each had to feel how hard his shell was.

And now for:
more goats!!

Now we can move onto other animals.

Like bunnies!

And miniature horses!

They are way too cute.

As for the big horses?

Carlee was scared of them again. Poor girl. I think they are beautiful. She did a little bit better when she could just see their faces from the front. I think their huge legs scared her. She loved the chickens though. Birds are one of her fav's.

We didn't go on any rides, eat any tiger ears (scones) or cotton candy, or play any games. We are trying to save some money to buy more Halloween decorations. We did however have to eat a little dinner and we even tried some alligator tails! Very spicy but otherwise had a chicken feeling to it. Hopefully next year I'll get my tiger ear!

Eastern Idaho Cake Show!

2009-09-07T10:44:00.015-06:00

On Saturday the kids and I attended the Cake Show at the Blackfoot fair since my mom entered a cake. She is a very talented cake baker so of course we had to go and show our support! She also entered the sugar flower competition which this year's theme was water lilies.

You can sort of see her holding up her trophy for winning grand prize in that division.

She did an amazing job. Even the rocks she put on the outside where sugar. The other entries paled in comparison.

Here is the beautiful wedding cake my mom entered. The theme was wedding dresses so they had to use a wedding dress picture as inspiration.

She ended up with a second place ribbon! Great job mom! Whoo hoo!

Close-up of her awesome job!

The dress was so pretty that she picked out. I think she did a great job of interpreting the design into cake.

I just had to take a picture of the grand prize winner in that division because it was remarkable. The mirror and accessories were made out of sugar. So adorable!

This must have taken forever!!
This same woman entered the all occasion cake division too. The theme was holidays around the world and she chose Chinese New Year.

She definitely deserved to win with this cake. It's phenomenal!

I love watching the cake show and seeing what people come up with. Now mom has to start me on lessons so I can learn how to do some of these amazing cakes!

Friday Fill Ins

2009-09-04T08:57:00.002-06:00

1. I feel tired! It was hard to go to sleep after the Boise State game against Oregon last night. Can you believe Oregon's tailback LeGerrette Blout? Talk about a good way to sit the rest of the season out.

2. Baking is always fun. I'm addicted!

3. Right now, I can hear these things: an air conditioner. That's about it. It's pretty quiet.

4. I'm hungry and I'm glad I brought a cereal bar to work (even though I already ate).

5. The last time I lost my temper was this morning. Collin really knows how to push my buttons. I get tired of him saying he won't do something if he doesn't get his way!

6. I get Monday off this Labor day weekend. Woo hoo!!! I really need a day off.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to playing around with a muffin recipe that will use the rest of my fruit cocktail, tomorrow my plans include cleaning and going to the Blackfoot fair and Sunday, I want to do some more baking (I really have baking on the brain, can you tell?)!

Wanna play too? Click here.

Carlee's turn!

2009-09-03T07:26:00.008-06:00

Back to pre-school!!

Carlee was EXTREMELY excited to head back
to her old classroom with Mrs. Snyder.

She picked out this outfit and was very excited to wear a girlie scarf. I think we have another Kaitlyn (our girlie cousin) on our hands. You can't tell but her nails were painted with pink sparkles. Plus she had on brand spankin' new white tights. The tights turned out to be a mistake. By the time I picked her up from grandma's house they were filthy and full of holes. Sigh.

When I asked Carlee about her first day of school she just mumbled something very fast with lots of hand motions. I picked out the word "teacher" but that's all I got. Grandma said she danced with Joel the maintenance man. She adores him!

We were able to go to Back to School night later that evening and ask her teacher what really went on that day. She said Carlee did excellent! She had more interactive play which is awesome. Last year she did more parallel playing and stayed more to herself. It's very good to see her interacting with the other kids.

Carlee had a couple of opinionated moments when she thought another little girls shoes were hers. Tantrum time! Then she decided that she had to have a pink construction paper circle for their art project even though she already had help cutting out a blue circle. She shoved it across the table and didn't want anything to do with it. Crazy girl.

I was very impressed that the teacher got 12 students down for a nap. It's a very hard task! Carlee wasn't even grumpy after she woke up. Woo hoo!

Carlee has improved so much mentally since she started pre-school last year. The teacher and aides do such a great job with the kids. I just love them! I'm so happy that Carlee gets to return with them again to gain more knowledge and skills that she needs before kindergarten.

What a cute little first grader!

2009-08-31T15:03:00.009-06:00

Doesn't every mom have to post back to school pictures??

Of course they do!

Collin thinks he is pretty big stuff for being in the first grade.

When I asked Collin what he did today he said, "We had two recesses!" Typical. All he remembers is the recess. Later he did remember that they worked on something involving big and small, made a storybook, and he remarked on how long of a day it was. Yep, going from half a day to a full day is quite different. I think he'll do okay. I'm just hoping when his sissy goes back to school on Wednesday she'll be able to handle a full day too.

Collin was sooooo excited that Kolton and Blake, his two best friends, were in his class. He also said that he had new kids in his class. "I should have made one of them a friend today," he said looking thoughtful. "I'll do it tomorrow." Isn't he cute!

After school we celebrated his first day with popcorn and Nestle chocolate Sno-Caps. He kept coming back to the chocolate saying, "I'm attracted to these!" That's one way of putting it...

Welcome to the first grade Collin!

Welcome to school going by in a

blink of an eye mom and dad. :(

Hogle Zoo

2009-08-31T13:37:00.002-06:00

Our 2009 Lagoon Trip

2009-08-26T20:23:00.026-06:00

Ahhhh,
water slides, amusement park rides,
entertainment, and food.

Is there anything better?

I think we may have started a new summer tradition down in Farmington, Utah. Last year only Eric and I headed to Lagoon. This year we brought along Collin, my cousin Kaitlyn, and my mother in law Tina. We were really bummed that Larry couldn't go. This was supposed to be his birthday trip! I know he would have had a blast in the water park. I just really hope we can get him there next year. We also missed Carlee. We made the decision for her to stay home with my mom this year. She is just too little to go on much of anything. She would have loved splashing in the water park though!

The sun was doing a great job of heating things up so we headed to Lagoon-A-Beach first. Eric probably would have spent the entire time there if we would have let him! As it was we spent most of our time on Eric's favorite attraction where you go down little curvy slides on a tube and splash into pools of water. (No idea what it was called.) The line goes quicker so you can have fun without the long wait involved on the other slides. Kaitlyn and Collin wouldn't try the body slides. I didn't want to either though since I tried them last year. I just think the tube rides are more fun. Tina went down a big body slide though! Way to go!

I didn't get any pictures at the water park but I did get some pics on some of the amusement rides:

Poor Collin had to ride the helicopter himself since everyone else was too tall. I don't think he really cared though.

We went on the Terroride and Collin put on his best scared face. Unfortunately, he really was scared! He does not do good in the dark.

Tina convinced Kaitlyn and I to ride the Jet Star with her. Yikes! I didn't really like it. Now I was the one who was scared.

Isn't Collin getting to be a handsome boy!
He was riding on the ski lift thingy with his daddy.

View of the fountain from above.

Kaitlyn and Tina rode in the car ahead of them.

Nice view of the swings!

And of this one, whatever it was called.
I'll have to try it next year.

Where was I while the others were riding? I took a walk and beat them to the other end by like five minutes or so. It's so much faster to just walk. Plus, to tell you the truth, I hate riding that thing! My fear of heights gets me again. Yeah, I'm a wimp, what about it?

When the others finally caught up to me we passed by this gentleman. Maybe he was a Carney. He could have been; just look at his feet! Ew! He showed us how he could turn them backwards and walk. Talk about flexible joints!

We all got completely soaked from head to toe after riding on Rattlesnake Rapids. I made the mistake of wearing my blue jean capris that day and it took for-e-ver to dry out.

Collin on the train.

Aren't these two precious! I took this while Tina and Eric stood in line for this:

The rest of us chickened out and didn't ride it.

This first drop looked too scary to me. Like I said, I'm a wimp. Next year I need to ride it first and get it over with. Then maybe I won't chicken out! Maybe...

Collin was waiting in line to go on the Tidal Wave for a second time but his stomach was upset. Tina and I got in line for the swings instead. This time Eric wimped out. Hee hee! He said the swings make him sick.

The kids made new friends while waiting for us.

Yaw hoo! So much fun!

All us girls rode the scrambler together. I thought it might make me sick but I did okay on it. I actually didn't get really sick until the last ride when we rode the old rickety roller coaster again. Thank goodness it was the last ride! That roller coaster I can handle better than the others. I don't know why. Anyways, the park was closing soon so we hurried up and got a pretzel and caught the end of one of the music shows. I absolutely love watching the entertainment there! The performers love what they do so it makes watching them fun.

Overall it was a fun trip. We can't wait to go back next year. Hopefully we will get even more of our family there. That includes you too mom and dad! Start planning!

Copper Basin Campground

2009-08-24T20:34:00.021-06:00

When you think of camping don't you just naturally think of S'mores? I know I do! This year we did a different kind of roasting. I never would have thought of it in a million years, but thanks to my brother and sister in law we were introduced to a new campfire favorite. What was it?

Can you tell?

That's right...it's Starburst candy!

I was skeptical at first. How were the sweet little candies going to hang on without slipping off? Well, for the most part they did hang on. Would the candy even taste any different? Yes! The outside was crystallized and the inside was ooey, gooey, warm and chewy. Yum! Seriously, try it on your next campout. You won't be sorry.

I think Kaitlyn roasted the most. She was loving them!

We were lucky that one of our favorite Copper Basin campsites was available. In this campsite was a little mountain trail that leads to a meadow. The kids were heading partway up the trail with Collin's little bike and then racing back down.

Woo hoo!

Go Collin!

Go Kaitlyn!

They even convinced Metny into giving Kaitlyn a ride down with her. You are such a good sport Metny! We tried to take a few bike rides on the road but Collin kept crashing or complaining that we had to ride his way. Needless to say, we didn't go too go far.

Oh well, I think Collin had more fun in the dirt anyways...

...and racing boats down the stream.

He was so cute.

I just can't believe Carlee didn't get as dirty as last year. I was prepared to take home a little girl with more dirt than hair and with two shining white eyes blinking under a soot covered face. Maybe she wasn't as dirty because she can walk better this year although she didn't really play much in the dirt at all.

Well, except when she helped me build a stick garden!

We had so much fun (for the most part)! It was just so nice to get together with my family to play cards, enjoy each others company, and enjoy nature. We missed Matt's campfire entertainment involving a lighter though! Maybe he'll come next year. Thanks fam for all your hard work putting this camping trip together. It was exhausting but fun!

August 15th Green Lake Trip

2009-08-24T15:22:00.001-06:00

I am finally getting around to posting some pictures. Whoo hoo! What with camping, unpacking, repacking, heading to Lagoon and the zoo, unpacking again, plus being completely lazy this Saturday and Sunday, I haven't had the time! Okay so I could have posted sometime this weekend, but like I said, too lazy. So without further adieu, here they are. Our pics going up to Green Lake!!

First of all, I must tell you that it felt like fall and not summer. We haven't really had much of a summer weather wise. We all bundled up in coats, hats, gloves and layers. It turned out to be a very good thing for two reasons.

Number 1: We wrecked on the motorbike. That's right, we wrecked. Little miss Carlee was holding onto the front. Eric was in the middle and I was hanging on the back. Usually that would be just fine but as it turns out the fallen tree up the trail didn't think so. We smacked into it and we all tumbled over to the right. Thankfully Carlee and I only scraped up our knees a little. Eric's hand got all cut up (yuck!) but at least the gloves he was wearing protected him somewhat. Carlee's hat and coat saved her from being scraped up too. She was a trooper though and handled it fine except for a brief stint of not wanting to get back on the bike. Who could blame her? I know if Collin had been the one in the wreck it would have been near impossible getting him back on. Plus we would have seen a lot more tears. Carlee is much tougher than her brother.

Number 2: We were greeted at the end of our motorbike ride with snow. SNOW! In August! Soooo glad we were dressed warm because it was freezing!!

We can only take the motorbikes up so far before we have to get our lazy butts off and climb the rest of the way. Carlee only wanted her mama to carry her up the mountainside. Why Carlee why! I had to oblige even though I was huffing and puffing and had to take a few, okay more like 10, breaks.

We are almost there!

The poor little flowers are cold! The snow came down in little balls which I was told still doesn't qualify as hail.

Our first view of the lake was so rewarding because now we could rest! Oh, plus it was beautiful of course.

Backside of the lake.

Cute Mr. Wayne was nice enough to pose for a quick picture.

This trip was the first time we have EVER built a fire at Green Lake. It is usually so hot that we have to shed clothes not put more on.

Carlee was worn out by the time we got there so she laid by the fire and napped for awhile under an umbrella. I'm so glad I remembered to bring umbrellas! I thought I would be using them for shade though, not for snow cover.

I had to take this picture because Kaitlyn thought it was funny that crumbs were sticking to Carlee's booger nose.

Everyone was ready to do some fishing and see if they could pluck out some of the yummy red-fleshed fish. They are the yummiest! Don't know what kind they are though...

Eric of course got the first fish.
Carlee giggled in glee as it wiggled!

Eric is always the first and last one fishing.
Maybe that's why he catches the most...

Everyone else had fun fishing too. Despite getting wet.

Go Kevin!

Tauna, Kaitlyn, Collin and I made our way around the entire lake for some exploring. Aren't the kids cute!

Kaitlyn was dared to climb up to the snow pile by her uncle Kevin so up she went.

She brought back a sample in her candy bag but it didn't last very long.

Kaitlyn and I hiked up one hill so we can see the upcoming storm. We were just hoping it wouldn't come and get us before we got back down the mountain. She climbed up this tree below right before she *shudder* fell off it. I tried to catch her but she biffed it too fast. The poor girl fell right onto a sharp rock. I felt so bad! Thankfully she only got a bruise and scratches on her back.

Turned out to be a cute picture though!

We had a fun time despite the accidents, snow, and poor quantity of fish. At least Carlee let daddy pack her down the mountain on the way back and even got back on the motorbike with him! I just hope next year will be back to all of its sunny glory.

By the way...

2009-08-11T12:10:00.003-06:00

I won't be posting any more this week since we're too busy getting ready for camping. Whoo hoo! We're excited. I just hope everyone is going to be feeling good by Thursday. Carlee is still sick and I've been too tired and in pain. Hoping we both get over it so we can have fun!

C-Ya!

Happy Birthday Sweetie!

2009-08-11T11:46:00.003-06:00

My sweet hubby has turned the big number 33. It's okay though since he loves that number. After all, it was Larry Bird's jersey number whom Eric grew up watching!

Here's my hubby in a nutshell:

funny
athletic
chatty
reliable
loving
jokester
easy going
cares for his kids
fun
s-e-x-y!

Hope you have a great day today honey!
Can't wait to see you tonight!!

Friday Fill-Ins

2009-08-07T12:17:00.002-06:00

1. Being able to go outside without freezing my behind off is my favorite summertime opportunity. There's just something about leaving for work without having to grab a jacket that is very appealing.

2. My favorite John Hughes movies are "Sixteen Candles", "Pretty in Pink" and "Ferris Bueller's Day Off". Bueller...Bueller...Bueller...

3. A tiny baby chick is something I love to touch. So soft and cute!

4. The full moon is always welcomed when Eric is on night shift!

5. I want to fall asleep right now. I had a really hard time getting out of bed this morning.

6. When daylight fades so do I.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to having girls night with Dee, tomorrow my plans include cleaning and what not and Sunday, I want to head to church then make sure the camper is ready for next weekend!

To play go Here.

Back to Bear World!

2009-08-06T14:54:00.002-06:00

Yesterday afternoon we loaded up my mom's van and headed over to Yellowstone Bear World! In total between my mom and I we took 483 pictures. Pathetic I know but I just can't stop myself! I didn't want to spend all night uploading pictures so I made a series of slideshows of the different areas of the park.

Below is our driving tour.
Windows up,
peepers opened,
ready to go.
Enjoy!

Curator Tour - Feeding the Bears!

2009-08-06T14:27:00.002-06:00

At the beginning of our adventure the tour guide said, "If you don't listen to anything else this entire trip listen to this." She then proceeded to tell us to hang onto everything precious to us including our cameras and kids. She said that once they go overboard we can't have them back until the bears get done with them. Whatever remains they will put in a little ziploc baggie and give it back to us. Yikes! Better hang on kids!

I've only drove through the park so it was really fun to be able to get a little more up close and personal with the big bears. They looked like little puppy dogs begging for food. We were told that one bear refuses to eat her breakfast until she gets two twinkies first. Who wouldn't?

Thanks Tina for treating us to the curator tour. I'm so glad we went!

Petting Zoo at Bear World

2009-08-06T14:03:00.002-06:00

Hmmm...of course Carlee was chasing all the fowls in the park.

Baby bears, a moose, ducks and kids!

2009-08-06T13:41:00.002-06:00

The baby bears at Bear World are just so darned cute!
Loved them! So did the kids.

I can not believe that the moose lazing by the water let us pet him. He was big but gentle. Very cool experience!

If there are ducks around then you can bet that Carlee will not be far. I don't know what her fascination is with birds and ducks but she can't get enough of them.

Rides and Silliness!

2009-08-06T13:17:00.002-06:00

They don't have a lot of rides in Bear World Amusement Park but of course I had to test out what they had. Even if I was too big for them!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-08-05T08:12:00.006-06:00

Just Need Washing

2009-08-04T12:06:00.003-06:00

My mother in law sent this story to me in an email. Some of you may have heard it, others may have deleted it without reading. If you need a little spiritual lift you MUST read it! It is a sweet reminder of the innocence of children. They truly are some of the best examples you could ever follow.

A little girl had been shopping with her Mom in Target. She must have been 6 years old, this beautiful image of innocence.

It was pouring outside. The kind of rain that gushes over the top of rain gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout.
We all stood there under the awning and just inside the door of the Target.

We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their hurried day. I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of running, splashing so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve from the worries of my day.

The little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught in 'Mom let's run through the rain,' she said.

'What?' Mom asked..

'Lets run through the rain!' she repeated .

'No, honey. We'll wait until it slows down a bit,' Mom replied.

This young child waited about another minute and repeated:
'Mom, let's run through the rain.'

'We'll get soaked if we do,' Mom said.

'No, we won't, Mom... That's not what you said this morning,' the young girl said as she tugged at her Mom's arm.

'This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?'

'Don't you remember? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer, you said, If God can get us through this, he can get us through anything!'

The entire crowd stopped dead silent. I swear you couldn't hear anything but the rain. We all stood silently.. No one came or left in the next few minutes.

Mom paused and thought for a moment about what she would say. Now some would laugh it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said But this was a moment of affirmation in a young child's life. A time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith.

'Honey, you are absolutely right. Let's run through the rain. If GOD lets us get wet, well, maybe we just needed washing,' Mom said.

Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They held their shopping bags over their heads just in case. They got soaked. But they were followed by a few who screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars.

And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing.

Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions, they can take away your money, and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take away your precious memories...So, don't forget to make time and take the opportunities to make memories everyday.

To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.

I HOPE YOU STILL TAKE THE TIME TO RUN THROUGH THE RAIN.

Just a Few Cute Kid Pics!

2009-08-03T21:16:00.007-06:00

Friday Fill-Ins

2009-07-31T13:42:00.002-06:00

1. It's time for the other half of my 3 musketeers bar. All I've had for sweets today is a free piece of cake. If your cake is free does that mean it's calorie free too?

2. Pass creek; it's not a bad place for throwing rocks.

3. I must be crazy for trying to convince my hubby to take me to a concert in September. Come on honey! It'll be fun!!

4. Family is the best thing I have ever known. I have the best family in the world!

5. My house is simply a disaster. I watched a movie last night instead of cleaning. Oopsi!

6. The last time I laughed really loudly was when Carlee was wearing Collin's underwear on her head.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going to check out the Mackay fair with my mom and my kids, then cleaning the house, tomorrow my plans include cleaning out the camper, maybe going to the Arco Duck Race, and then heading over for a BBQ and Volleyball with friends and Sunday, I want to hopefully teach a good lesson for the 10 yr old class I'm substituting for and doing some relaxing!

Wanna play? Go here.

Pioneer Days

2009-07-30T20:39:00.030-06:00

I missed half of our pioneer celebration because frankly, I forgot about it! My sweet friend Tara was gracious enough to let me steal a few pictures that she took of the celebration. Her daughter is in the polka dot apron pictured below. Tara sewed all of her families pioneer clothes. Wish I was that talented!

Tara rode with my kids on the wagon while my dad and I waited behind. She got some cute shots!

Collin with his buddy Zane

Sweet Carlee and Collin pics

Here's a few pics of the parade we missed.

The robust pioneer men.

The beautiful pioneer ladies.

Pioneer children sang as they walked, and walked, and walked, and walked, and walked!

How cute is this wagon and baby!

The rest of the pictures I took. Collin was glad he got to participate in some races.

He ran three total.

He said he was exhausted by the last race. That's better than mommy can do!

But at least he got a prize after each race!

He just had to pick out an airplane for each prize. He was even gracious enough to give one plane to his sister. She didn't want to run any races.

The kids couldn't wait to get a ride in the wagon!

Carlee absolutely adores horses.

We had yummy pork BBQ sandwiches for dinner. Carlee only wanted to eat the top of her bun and then nibble on my sandwich. She also thought that my drink tasted a whole lot better than hers even though they were the same. Silly girl.

Collin shared some of his sandwich with the flies and then a roaming mongrel, I mean dog, finished it up for him. My kids never eat much. If only I could take half of my appetite and share it with the kids! Too bad it doesn't work that way.

A peek inside the teepee. I pretended to be a bear outside and they kept running away from me. ROAR!!

They were sneaking in and out from the bottom instead of the door.

Grrrrr....I'm gonna get you!

This is my adorable neighbor Kailey. She is way too precious.

Snarl! I'm gonna get you too Kailey!

Collin poked his head out but quickly ducked back inside when he saw my camera!

Bridger and Collin had to check out the Indian wardrobe.

Bridger tried to tackle me for taking his picture but I managed to get some shots anyways. Ha ha Bridger!

Next year I'll have to get some pioneer clothes for the kids. Everyone was so adorable! The kids had so much fun that they didn't want to go home. We'll definitely have to go again next year. Who knows, I might even remember next time!

Happy Birthday Collin!

2009-07-29T14:35:00.003-06:00

Collin is so spoiled that he got two parties again this year! It's more work but he's worth it. I'm just posting the family party on this blog. The crazy kid party will be posted on his blog.

This year Collin wanted to have a Pokemon themed party. I really don't know how he started liking Pokemon so much in the first place. Anyways, he wanted grandma to make him a pokeball cake and this is what she came up with.

Isn't it cute! She made the pokeballs and lightning out of white chocolate and candy melts. Collin thought it was the coolest. Like my grandma Brewer said, "We're so lucky to have Rhonda in our family!" My mom is very talented.

Since the birthday boy gets to pick out what is served for dinner we made homemade pizza - one of his fav's. I should have taken pics of us making it. I was really scared to make the dough since I always ruin everything asking for yeast but it actually turned out great! Yippee!

Thanks fam for coming over and celebrating Collin's birthday with us. It meant a lot to us and to Collin. We even had all three of my brothers together again for one last time before Ryan left to go back to Florida and warmer temperatures. Yea for family get-togethers!

Love you Collin! Hope you had a memorable Pokemon birthday.

2009-07-29T14:30:00.001-06:00

Friday Fill-Ins

2009-07-24T12:23:00.002-06:00

1. Having a few pieces of wilted lettuce in my salad is not the end of the world. I'll just eat around it.

2. Sitting here, listening to the sound of rain falling, I want to grab my umbrella, head outside, and splash!

3. A twice-baked potato tastes so good! Thought I was going to say chocolate didn't you!

4. Sometimes, putting others first is the best thing you can do in a relationship.

5. Coming home to a clean house is breathtaking, really. Too bad it doesn't happen very often.

6. Well, maybe there is one more chance to get all my brothers together before Ryan leaves. I'm hoping so!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to finishing Collin's last party details for his (TWO, spoiled boy) parties this weekend, tomorrow my plans include surviving his kid's party with his friends and possibly checking out the pioneer activities going on this weekend and Sunday, I want to have all my family over to have a celebration dinner for Collin turning six! How is it possible that he is six!!!

Wanna play? Go here.

Our hike out past Mackay.

2009-07-24T08:40:00.012-06:00

Tell me what you think. Was this picture worth a four mile hike up and treacherously across the slippery hillsides? Worth crossing streams? Worth enduring stinging nettle plants scratching your legs and hands?

Well, in my opinion: Yes!! I love hiking though so any cool view up in the mountaintops is worth it. Being out in nature is so calming and peaceful. I've really got the hiking bug and can't wait to go again.

(Kaitlyn loved this tree.)

Larry, Tina, Eric, me, Collin, Carlee, Levi, Cher, my brother Ryan, my mom Rhonda, and Kaitlyn all trudged up the mountainside. I'm so glad that my mom went too although I don't know if she'll ever go hiking with us again! We thought it would be a simple quick hike but it took a lot longer than we were expecting, and it was a lot harder.Plus we got rained on for a bit. It was refreshing though!

The kids favorite activity is throwing rocks into the river to see the big SPLASH!

Not to be outdone here's Larry joining in the fun.

We saw these wires with lumber inside all throughout the hillside. Definitely an interesting way to get wood down the mountainside!

Pretty posing.

We all (I think...well, for the most part) had fun that day. Thanks Levi for suggesting the trip. SO much fun!

2009-07-24T07:12:00.000-06:00

"Rock the Falls"

2009-07-23T08:19:00.006-06:00

This past Saturday I finally got to go to a rock concert! Yea! I've been wanting to go to a concert forever! I don't have any friends that love rock 'n roll like I do so I never have anyone to go with. Lame! While my little concert lovin' bro Ryan was in town I decided to find us a concert to go to. Firehouse was playing in Sandy Downs, ID so I immediately bought three tickets. I remember listening to their CD when I was younger and singing along to their tunes on the radio. They were AWESOME performers. Loved it!

Eric was supposed to go with us but he bailed on me (sheesh) so I took my 12-yr old cousin Kaitlyn instead. It said right on the ticket that it was an all ages show but I don't really think that was true! I think she got more of an education than she was bargaining for. Oopsi!

The night started out with a local band named 2AM Logic. I was impressed with how good they were. I guess Idahoans really can rock! Unfortunately they shouted out a few "F" bombs and I started questioning if my sweet Kaitlyn should have come. The lead singer had a really fun personality though and he was making jokes to make the audience laugh. They even had an adorable woman playing on one of the guitars. She was the only other woman on stage besides the hostess.

We were about four people back from the stage; right in the "mosh pit". Just kidding Tauna if you are reading this! In the front row was this older man with long hair that kept head banging and doing the rock symbol with his hands. He also kept shouting, "Oh yeah! Are you gonna shred it! Whoo! Yeah!" and various other phrases that kept cracking me up. He had two curly haired short women next to him so when they all started head banging all you saw was hair. HIL-arious! I really should have taken a picture of them. In fact, I can't believe I got out of there with only one picture my brother took of me and Kaitlyn. I usually take pictures of everything!

The second band on stage was called Still Standing. Never heard of them. They all had the hard core rocker look though, tats, leather and all. I was mesmerized by one of the guitar players and spent more time paying attention to him than to the music. He just looked too pretty to be a guy! His body frame could even be a woman's. Heck, he already had on the eyeliner so maybe he really was a woman. Okay I'll quit now. The lead singer to this band wasn't as much fun as the beginning band but they were okay. Ryan said all their songs sounded the same. Yeah, pretty much they did.

By now there was lots of smoking and boozing going on. At least Kaitlyn got to see how drunk people act. She said she's never drinking! See, I guess she got a good education out of it after all.
It was starting to get HOT, HOT, HOT too by the time Firehouse came on. They were definitely worth watching perform. I've been singing, "Don't treat me bad", "Love of a lifetime," and "When I look into your eyes," ever since then. Anyone remember those songs? It really brought me back in time. My throat started to hurt from screaming by the time they left the stage.

We were starving when Great White came on so we headed for some grub and sat down on the grass to watch the last performance of the night. I didn't really know who they were. They were kind of boring though so we only stayed for a couple songs and then we headed out of town. Thanks Ryan and Kaitlyn for going with me! Sorry about the bad parts Katie-Kate but I hope you had fun with us anyways!

Rodeo Time!

2009-07-23T07:41:00.036-06:00

On Friday the 17th we packed up into my mom's van and headed for a little rodeo action! Last year at the rodeo Carlee just kept on saying, "Horsie! Horsie! Horsie! Yee haw!" This year was no exception.

This is my grandma Brewer, Tina, and my mom Rhonda.
I love getting out with my family!

Hungry, hungry Carlee was non-stop eating that night. Here she is snitching Collin's cotton candy.

Yep, she was a sticky mess afterwards.

Here she is after stealing grandma's snowie. We bought her one without red dye but she wasn't having it. Everyone else had red so we gave in and gave her a red one too. I think she is sick of being different.

Carlee had to swipe some of grandma's hamburger too. Yes, we did feed her before we even came to the rodeo but she still acted like she was starving!

Grandma bought some popcorn and of course she had to eat that too!

Collin loves to participate in the Bob Sherman's Memorial Stick Horse Race. I wonder what he liked better: the race or flirting with the cowgirls. Hmmm....

Ready...set...

Go!

Whoo hoo!

Get around that barrel Collin!

Collin swears he was neck and neck to this boy but it looks like Collin was trailing a bit. A picture is worth a thousand words Collin!

Everyone that participated got a squirt gun. Collin immediately wanted to fill his up with ice water and squirt daddy. Good job Collin!

This is the first year that Collin participated in the calf scramble. I think that's what it was called, I don't really remember.

Anyways, Collin had to chase a calf with ties on it and try to pull one off. Whoever did got a prize.

Collin didn't get one but he did have fun. That's all that counts right?

The little clown dancers were so cute! Collin said he wanted to dance too. Maybe next year!

We always love to see the flag presentation before all the action begins.
Don't you just love America!

The rest of the pictures are of the bare back bronco riders and a couple bull riding shots in no particular order. We love the action! I still can't figure out why I can't get any good action pics at night though. Sigh.

We had a blast and we're glad we went. We'll have to go again next year!

Atomic Days!!

2009-07-22T07:38:00.019-06:00

Our little local town of Arco, ID celebrates
Atomic Days every year. Why? Because:

"On July 17, 1955, Arco became the first city in the world to be lit by nuclear energy! Electricity, generated by the Boiling Water Reactor III (EBR I) at the internationally renowned Department of Energy Idaho National Laboratory, was switched by local technicians to light our little City of Arco for approximately 2 hours on that historic day. Arco’s Atomic Days, sponsored by the Butte County Chamber of Commerce is held annually on the weekend closest to the July 17th anniversary, is a community-wide celebration of this historic day in our community’s history. High school graduation and family reunions, as well as the wide variety of things to do and see, draw folks from across America to our hometown. We hope that you will stop in and enjoy the celebration, activities and history Arco has to offer!" (blurb taken from visitidaho.org)

The kids favorite part of the celebration is the parade, fun at the park, and the rodeo. They definitely had a blast this year. Check out a few pics from the parade!

This is my father in law Larry lounging on the lounge chair. So nice to see him there! We were also graced with our uncle Johnny and Aunt Patty's presence. We don't get to see them enough.

Collin had to take a picture of his cousin Kaitlyn.

(Collin, Kaitlyn, Tina, and Carlee)

Oh look! Here comes the parade!

Yummy ICEE's!

We love our veterans!

Here's a pic of me with the kids before Eric handed the camera duty to me.

Check out my candy!

Carlee still thought the sirens and horns were too loud.

Brotherly love.

Kaitlyn and Collin had to watch out for Carlee a lot this parade. There were some really bratty boys that kept trying to steal the candy right out from under her. Poor little Carlee is too slow and they took advantage of that. They also kept going past us to steal the other little girls candy next to us! So rude. Kaitlyn and Collin had Eric's permission to knock 'em over but they were too nice. They were really frustrated with them though. We try to teach our kids to be nice and fair but this parade we had to tell them to push the boys outta the way and get that candy! You know, if they don't get any candy then momma doesn't get any candy. Momma has got to eat you know. Just kiddin'. Sort of...

Yea! Horsies!!

The parade always has a collection of older cars rolling by. I should have got a picture of all the cars later at the park but I forgot to take many pictures there.

Usually we have a short display of wheelies and stunts from local motorists. The kids love it! I had to take a picture of the littlest performer because he was so darned cute. Daddy says when Collin gets a dirt bike he'll have to practice so he can be in the parade.
Ummm, sure.
Someday.
In the future.
WAY in the future!

After the parade we headed down to the park to check out the fun. They had craft booths, jump houses, food and games. Eric participated in the horse shoes this year but got beat out by an older retired couple. I'm sure they had more time to practice!

The kids had to go on the cute little tractor ride that was touring the park. So cute! Collin is riding with his buddy Zane.

The girls had to ride in the back. I wish I would have got more pictures of them playing but oh well. It was soooo hot I think my brain was melting anyways. It was a fun morning though and we're glad we went.

Just a quick update.

2009-07-21T13:13:00.004-06:00

Gotta Love
Tuesdays!!

This weekend flew by with a whirlwind of adventure! We went to the rodeo Friday night, our Atomic Days parade and activities Saturday morning, a rock concert Saturday night, a major hike up to a waterfall on Sunday afternoon, and we got back at midnight last night after watching Transformers 2 and some shopping. Whew! I had major fun and I hope everyone else did too. Tonight I hope I can get started in posting some pictures of our fun but as you can read I just haven't had the time yet. Hope everyone else had a fun weekend too!

Friday Fill-Ins

2009-07-17T13:08:00.004-06:00

1. Tortillas and beans make a quick and easy dinner. We eat an alarming amount of burritos at our house. I'm surprised that the roof hasn't blown off our house from all the tootin' the boys do.

2. Of Goodly Parents is the book I'm reading right now. Well, truthfully I haven't started it yet, but I plan to soon!

3. July brings back memories of T-ball, my cousin Kaitlyn (love her!), fourth of July activities, and the fact that summer is slipping away faster than we can enjoy it.

4. That I needed help was obvious. I was trying to lift a heavy bookcase I got for $5 at a garage sale this morning by myself. Thank heavens a man came to help me drag it to my pickup.

5. They say if you tell your dreams to not be scary they indefinitely will be.

6. I probably shouldn't have eaten chocolate pudding AND Snowcaps to cure my chocolate craving to think it over. One or the other should have been enough.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching our local rodeo with the family, tomorrow my plans include going to our Atomic Days parade in Arco and then heading across the desert to a rock concert and Sunday, I want to go to church and then hike up to a waterfall with some of my family including my brother-in-law Levi and his wife Cher!

Family Get Together

2009-07-16T07:40:00.017-06:00

This past weekend was all about family. I was lucky to be able to spend time with both my side and Eric's side of the family all at once! First of all it was my father-in-law's birthday. Secondly it was the first weekend of three that my little brother was home from Florida so I got my other two brothers to come home too!

My nephew Alec and Collin were OBSESSED with playing Super Smash Brothers on the Wii. Alec didn't even stop when my brother Mark and the other kids all went to the park. Yeah, I think he liked it.

My sister-in-law Liz, me, and my three brothers JoMax, Ryan, and Mark all played a little Hokey Six. I haven't played in probably over 10 years so it took me awhile to get back into the rhythm of a fast paced card game.

Here's my beautiful cousin Kaitlyn with Carlee. How cute are they!

My mom snuck a pic of my lovely cousin Dee. She was playing with her new phone she got for her birthday. I'd love a new phone too!

This is grandma Brewer, Eric, uncle Steven (though you can't see him), aunt Tauna, the birthday boy Larry, and my cousin Matt.

Yummy! This is the ice cream cake my mom and I put together for Larry. Aren't the little chocolate tools cute!

It was a long process of layering and freezing but definitely worth it! Yum! I'll have to post the tutorial on my food blog when I get a chance.

My mother-in-law Tina was gracious enough to take a picture of my parents, bros, plus the sister-in-law and nephew all together in my living room. It's been a LONG time since we've all been together for a picture.

Carlee couldn't resist sneaking her uncle Mark a hug. She absolutely adores him!

Here are the bratty ones together...umm excuse me, I mean the cuties together.

Eric even posed for a family picture. It was a rare occasion indeed!

Me, Mark, JoMax and Ryan. Love you guys! We need to get together more often!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-07-15T07:24:00.002-06:00

Out of the mailbox

2009-07-14T07:32:00.012-06:00

I love checking the mail. There I said it. I just find it exciting to pull up to the mailbox and see what mystery will be there waiting for me. Will it be a fun recipe book? A clothes magazine? A vacation guide? (Which by the way are SO fun to look at even though I'll probably never visit most of them.) Of course I don't like seeing the bills though. :( Bleh!

Lately I had two exciting packages in the mailbox. The first one was some yummy popcorn and an organization book in a cute Orville Redenbacher bowl.

I can't even remember now which site I got this from but I'm happy I won! They must have known that I am in serious need of a little organization help. I'll have to read it soon. I need to get rid of a lot of stuff I hold onto. It's ridiculous really. Plus the popcorn was heaven sent. The kids and I are huge popcorn fans!

The second package was from the author Heather Moore. I was REALLY excited to get this one. I've only read one of her books titled Abinadi but it was fantastic! If you haven't read it yet then get it. Heather has such a delightful way of bringing her characters to life. She is truly one of the best historical fiction writers I've read.

I can't wait to curl up with Of Goodly Parents late at night. Thanks so much for sending this to me! I love good mail!

Friday Fill-Ins

2009-07-10T12:30:00.004-06:00

1. The last thing I ate was a Hawaiian personal pan pizza and a diet Pepsi. I completely forgot to pack a lunch today. Well, maybe I just didn't want to since I have no food in my house! I need to go grocery shopping.

2. A few Pokemon party supplies is something I recently bought. Collin is insistent on having a Pokemon themed party this year. He's even enlisted grandma Christensen to make him a pokeball cake.

3. When it rains, it reminds me of how bad our little valley needs moisture. This year with all the rain has been awesome!

4. My mother in law was the first person I talked to today. She called at almost 7:30 and I'm glad she did since I was still in bed!

5. Hugs are wonderful! Especially the one I got this morning from Carlee. She said, "I loves you!" and gave me a huge squeeze. Priceless.

6. I like to read the little quotes as I unwrap my Dove dark chocolate squares for extra comfort. Today they read: "Find little ways to make part of your day like a day off" and "Happiness is contagious". Oh okay so I ate another one that says: "Share our similarities, celebrate our differences" but I swear it was the last one I ate...

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to seeing two of my brothers! My baby brother flew in from Florida last night (woo hoo!!!) and one of my older brothers came home the weekend from Pocatello (double woo hoo!!) tomorrow my plans include goofing around with my bros and family ( especially since I already did my weekend housework!) and Sunday, I want to cook yummy Mexican food for all three of my bros (yea I get 'em all home!) and take family pics, plus celebrate my father in laws b-day!

All kinds of agua!

2009-07-08T07:51:00.024-06:00

It all started out with an innocent toss of a water balloon.

Not much harm, right?

"Think again!" says a soaked Collin.

Now it's a full fledged war!

"I'll get you Steven!"

"Take that dad!" screams Carlee.

"Oh man!"

"You're gonna get it for that one Kaitlyn!"

I think Mr. Wayne got the brunt end of the water fight. He looked the wettest. The kids all had so much fun. (I think their daddy and uncle Steven did too!)

Steven also had fun putting up Kaitlyn's new pool. The kids had to get in immediately.

"Oh, I'm so thirsty."

"Ahhh, this is the life."

"Brrrr....!"

It was not the warmest day on the 4th and I can't believe that the kids got into the pool at all. There was no way I would have! Oh well, it was a wet, wild, afternoon anyways.

4th of July Parade

2009-07-07T07:22:00.024-06:00

Wearing red, white, and blue? Check.
Flags? Check.
Buckets for candy? Check.
Camera? Check.
Ready for the parade? Double check!!

Every year my kids get super psyched for our humble local parade. Especially since they know they'll end up with a bucket full of candy!

Usually I would have to douse the kids from head to toe in sunscreen but it was overcast and on the chilly side. In fact, I was just hoping that it wouldn't rain! We were in luck though and the morning was rain-free.

Collin, Kaitlyn, and Carlee all posed with their flags. They were ready to wave them at the start of the parade.

Carlee was acting really silly as she waited for the fun to begin.

I actually remembered to get a pic of me in here since I'm usually just the one behind the lens.

We got our perfect parade spot which is by the school. See even the tree thought it was a good spot!

Let the candy grabbin' begin!

I'm ready! I'm ready!

Carlee thought the fire engine was too loud!

Here she is putting on a hat one of floats was handing out. Collin has since claimed it as his own because according to him, "Carlee already has a shady hat! It's not fair that she got another one and I don't have even one!"

Ahhh, the spoils!

It was so cute to watch them have a good time. We let 'em eat a few pieces of loot before heading to the park to check out the vendors and get a Snowie. Yep, more sugar on top of sugar. Hey, it was a holiday!

Baby Blvd Give-away

2009-07-06T15:02:00.005-06:00

I LOVE the baby boulevard website! Ever been? If not then click here to see all of their fun products including aprons, scripture covers, bows, etc. I really want one of the darling scripture covers for Christmas. Anyone, anyone? Just kiddin'. I'll have to get one sometime. Anyways, right now they are having a giveaway for the cute bows you see here. The contest ends on July 16th so hurry up this week and check it out. No seriously, check it out!

Friday Fill-Ins

2009-07-03T09:20:00.005-06:00

1. When I heard that I had to work today I was bummed. Oh well, Collin is here keeping me company for awhile! Plus I only have to work half a day. Yea!

2. I don't care who you are, chocolate is ALWAYS the best medicine.

3. It's late, but still I stayed up to make raspberry peach cobbler. Yum!

4. I love the fourth of July always. It's so much fun seeing the kids enjoy the parade and react to fireworks! And I'm looking forward to homemade root beer. Love it!

5. My eyes have seen the monuments and graves of those who have fallen to win our freedom. We will be forever in their debt.

6. I feel that we should have three day weekends, strongly.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to having my cousin Kaitlyn over to play with the kids and hopefully having time to create some kind of yummy fourth of July treat, tomorrow my plans include watching the parade, celebrating Kaitlyn's b-day, cake, and fireworks! Sunday, I want to rest, relax, snooze and be lazy!

Just a few t-ball pics.

2009-07-02T07:56:00.015-06:00

Okay, so I enrolled Carlee in the Smart Start T-Ball program because she wanted SOOOOOOO badly to play last year. Well, this year is a completely different story. The little stinker will have NOTHING to do with it. She doesn't want to catch, throw, hit, or run. She'd rather just play with weeds. Sad but true.

Tuesday was picture day and she had a complete fit! She HATES with a capital "H" posing for pictures. I hope the photographer got at least 1 good pic out of the bunch. We'll see. Plus I think she kept her thumb in her mouth for the team pic. Aaarg!

I don't think I'll enroll her again next year. We'll just look forward Collin moving up to ragball.

Speaking of Collin here he is with his coach Lennie. He has been doing SO good! He's been hitting far and almost every time he remembers to drop the bat before running to the base. Silly kid!

Go Collin!

I think he must have been giving out instructions. I don't remember what he was saying!

Run home!

Gimme my mitt. I'm ready for outfield!

He did great as a catcher. (When he was paying attention!)

Hurray!

I'm looking forward to watching Collin play tonight but I don't know if I have the patience to try and coax Carlee into playing. We'll see...

Upcoming fun!

2009-07-01T12:50:00.008-06:00

Well, I do believe that summer
has finally arrived!

I started looking at the calendar and
now I'm excited for all the fun
coming up!!!

We've got b-days!

Larry (father-in-law)
Collin (my baby boy)
Eric (my sweetie)
Granny & Gramps Metcalf

My brother Ryan is coming home
for a visit from Florida!

Little

Ryan!

Eric, Ryan and I are going
to a concert featuring "old"
80's and 90's rock bands!

We're going to the local
rodeo. Yee haw!!

Lookin' forward to some
camping...

...and fishin'!

Hopefully we'll get in our
sprinkler system and some
grass so we can play outside
without being covered in dirt!

We're going to
Lagoon-A-Beach!
Yea!

Eric and I will be celebrating
our 11th anniversary!
Muah!

And of course we have to make an
appearance at the Blackfoot fair!

I'm so excited!!
Yea for summer!!!

Confessions of a Shopaholic

2009-06-30T13:55:00.010-06:00

This post is not a review of the movie "Confessions of a Shopaholic" (even though I'd like to see it!)

No, this post is about my little miss Shopaholic Carlee.

Carlee used to throw such HUGE fits over shoe shopping. I mean she used melt down into an instant don't touch my feet-I hate shoes mode. These days the switch has flipped and I can't seem to keep her AWAY from shoes! She excitedly squeals, "Let's see! Let's see!" as she makes her way over to the shoe displays. She will then proceed to touch every shoe and say, "Pretty!"

My cousin Kaitlyn was trying on flip flops yesterday and she grabbed a size 6 (Yes a 6! She needs to stop growing!) and Carlee just had to try them on too. She was so cute trying to walk around in shoes five times too big. Well, she was cute until I told her to take them off. Then she started a diva tantrum and refused to remove them from her feet. After all, Kaitlyn and mommy got shoes so it seemed only fair to her that she should get some too right? Well, life's not always fair girl.

Kaitlyn thought it was funny when Carlee saw something she liked in the store. Carlee would run up to it and laugh a wicked "Heh, heh, heh!" almost as if saying, "Oh this should be mine!" She did that with an adorable little monkey purse that caught her eye. We handed Carlee a pair of shoes to keep her hands busy just so we could pry it off her arm!

All the sparkly jewelry in the display cases have caught her eye now too. I've never seen her so intrigued! She looked just like this little girl:

We took her to Claire's to look at some "cheaper" jewelry (even though mommy didn't buy her anything!). She grabbed a basket and started filling it up. Every time she turned her back mommy would take something out and put it back on the shelf. Yep, I'm soooo sneaky! She was disappointed when she didn't get anything so she played tug-o-war with Kaitlyn over a pair of cupcake earrings I bought for Kaitlyn's b-day. Sorry Carlee! You gotta have pierced ears to get those!

Anyways, I think you can see that my little miss Carlee is just starting to be a shopaholic. By the time she turns five we might have to let her join a kindergarten shoppers anonymous. I guess I shouldn't have complained that Carlee didn't used to like shopping. Complaining usually backfires!

Friday Fill-Ins

2009-06-26T12:17:00.005-06:00

1. She had a great big slice of homemade bread with butter. Now that's heaven!

2. God is by my side, always. He's the one person I can always turn too, even though I screw up once in awhile.

3. I know this: I really love my children. I just wish they weren't constantly pushing each others buttons and fighting! I feel like I'm going to have to be committed into the insane asylum soon if I don't get some peace!

4. A Twix candy bar is in my drawer still. I hope I have the willpower today to keep it there. :)

5. These words apply to me: my heart has good intentions in abundance, it's my body that's weak.

6. It's about time the sun was shining! I have been enjoying the moisture we received though. Our little valley REALLY needed it!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to getting my car back from the mechanics (do they train mechanics to be rip-off artists??), tomorrow my plans include trying to save my trees from the weeds that have overtaken them and Sunday, I want to rest (I hope)!

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T21:44:00.020-06:00

I LOVE to bake, yet I hate to cook. Does that make sense? Desserts are just more fun to bake than say, a rack of lamb. This father's day the kids wanted to make daddy a special treat. I came across a recipe for Snickerdoodle cake that sounded delish so we decided to give it a shot.

First the kids wanted to dress the part for some serious baking.

How cute is she?

And check out this adorable future chef!

Collin measured out the flour...

...and baking powder.

Carlee stirred the sugar. Sort of.

Collin was VERY excited to use the beaters. Luckily he didn't make a horrible mess which was nice!

Little flour face.

Carlee did some last minute stirring before we put the batter in the pan. I'm pretty sure she did a little bit of tasting too. :)

Here's the result! A yummy cinnamon snacking cake! We put a little whipped cream on the top with some cinnamon just to dress it up a little.

The kids are big fans of whipped cream. Can you tell?

I think everyone liked it and you can see the recipe on my food blog. Hope everyone had a good Father's day!

When it rains it pours.

2009-06-17T13:36:00.000-06:00

All the rain that we have been getting for weeks has been awesome! Sure I complained that they postponed t-ball for two weeks and the weeds are starting to grow higher than our baby trees but now we have water running through the river in our backyard! I hope it runs all summer long.

One of the kids favorite summer activities is throwing rocks in the river. They'd stay there for hours if I let 'em. Yet, there's only so many times mommy can say "wow" at another splash in the river before she's ready to go. We had a blast and we're waiting for another rain free night to go play some more.

See how close it is to our house?

See my stick?

That's not a stick.
Now this is a stick!

Ahhh..summer!

2009-06-16T08:13:00.022-06:00

Well, summer has just begun and already the kids are bleeding me dry!

Swimming lessons...

...basketball camp...

...and now T-Ball finally started!

It's been worth the money to see their little faces light up with joy and laughter. It's probably a good thing we don't have gymnastics close or I would have been suckered into that too!

Gotta love summer!

Now THAT'S my kind of diet!!

2009-06-11T16:22:00.005-06:00

Tonight I am baking cookies and eating with both hands! My ultimate favorite cookie would have to be the sugar cookie. What's yours?

All's Fair

2009-06-10T12:13:00.002-06:00

I absolutely love a
good FREE novel!
If you like that too
then click here.
Anne Bradshaw is
hosting a giveaway
of this book:

You can read the
synopsis on Anne's
blog but this sounds
like a great read.
Hurry though, the
contest ends on
June 17th!

Wordless Wednesday: Alec

2009-06-10T08:09:00.002-06:00

The birds are back! Run!!!

2009-06-09T13:21:00.012-06:00

For the past two days I've felt like I
was on the set of a movie. Not just
any movie either.
Remember this one?

The birds have been sitting outside
the hospital on the pine trees
just waiting for unsuspecting
prey. Once they spot you with their
beady little eyes they swoop down
with a reckless abandon. You begin
to cringe when the loud "caw" comes
from above.

The fear of this looms in my mind:

Yesterday they tried to attack my
coworker through the glass window.
When they couldn't reach her they
started pecking the poor squirrel
that unfortunately came too close
to their nesting grounds.

Bad birdies! Bad! They dive bombed my
head earlier this morning when I was
heading to the post office. I felt the
"swoooosh" of my hair ruffling as
the winged monster flew back to the trees.

Could these be Hitchcock's birds back
on the rise? Only time will tell...

Body Count so far:

Birds 1
Humans 0

(one bird was accidentally hit in the parking lot...or was it? Mwahh ha ha!)

The Trandy Wedding

2009-06-04T22:07:00.015-06:00

My sissy in law Mandy and her new hubby Trent tied the knot, got hitched, heard the fat lady sing, oh you get the idea. They're married! They are so perfect for each other. We are so happy that they found one another and chose to be married for time and all eternity in the Draper, UT temple. I think I was the only one in the sealing room blubbering into hysterics. There is just something about a temple wedding that is indescribable. Here's a few pics outside the temple.

Granny B and Collin

Levi, Cher and Justin

Collin with his grandpa Jensen

Little miss Carlee

Mandy and Trent right after the wedding.
All smiles and kisses.

Their affectionate behavior must have rubbed off because Collin and Carlee were all hugs after they came out.

Picture posing time!

Me, Eric, granny B, Collin, Larry, Justin, Tina, Mandy, Trent, Carlee, Trent's mom, Levi and Cher. Phew!

They had the reception in the Draper historic park. I should have taken a pic of the gazebo because it was beautiful...and huge! Carlee went around smelling all the flowers.

She was very excited to get one pinned on her dress too. She wouldn't let me take it off! It was a fun time and we wish them the best!

Like free stuff?

2009-06-04T12:45:00.003-06:00

Over at Anne Bradshaw's blog there is a giveaway for this!

That's right, you can win a $50 gift certificate from LDSWA online store. Why not head on over there right now and check it out! Everybody needs something free every now and then right? Hurry though because the contest ends on June 10th.

It's T-Ball Time!!

2009-06-02T13:05:00.003-06:00

Is there anything
cuter than little kids
playing t-ball?
I just love watching
them attempt to catch
fly balls or hit a
home run.
Too precious!!!
Unfortunately on
our opening night
we're gonna have
lots of this...

D'oh! Oh well,
hopefully the little
tikes will get to play
next week. I know
Collin is disappointed,
poor kid. On the
bright side maybe
now I'll have time to
unpack my suitcase
from this weekend!
I'll try to post a
few wedding pics later.
I don't think I have
much since we were
too busy to even think
about it...
Plus I'll try and get
back into blogging
now that the craziness
is over. (I hope!)

Washington D.C. Trip!

2009-05-25T16:38:00.003-06:00

Sorry, I still haven't had time to blog about the trip but at least I threw a few photos out of the 400+ that I took into a slideshow! I'll have to make a photo book with the rest...when I have time!

2009-05-25T16:35:00.001-06:00

C-Ya!

2009-05-05T16:01:00.002-06:00

I'm not going to be blogging this week (except for this one of course). I am STILL not packed and I have to have everything done to-nite! Don't ask what's taking me so long. Just life basically. Plus I've got my adorable Activity day girls tonight. As soon as we're done I'll be in whirlwind mode trying to get all my stuff squished into one suitcase, packing Collin's stuff, trying to get dishes done, packing Carlee's bag to take to grandma C's house, last minute laundry, etc, etc, etc. Whew, I'm tired already!

Collin is definitely ready to go. He's so cute as he keeps on counting down the days. We're leaving right after work tomorrow to head to SLC for the night, then off to D.C.! Mandy get your hugs and kisses ready because Collin can't wait to see you.

I'll post lots of pics when I get back. I'm already wondering if two 2G SD cards are going to be enough. I love taking pictures! I took 200 pics during the Easter hunt alone this year if that gives you any indication...

Loves to all! We'll be back next week!!