. . Living The Dream!

I love JibJab

2011-12-02T20:12:00.000-07:00

For a good laugh, click this!

Stampin' Up! is having a sale!!

2011-11-22T22:05:00.005-07:00

Check out the sale going on at Stampin' Up!

(official link is located on the right hand column ------> )

Please let me know if you want anything! I'd love to help you get it ordered & in your hands!!!

When Life gives you lemons...

2011-10-09T21:59:00.005-06:00

That was the starting of my weekend. My eldest nephew was getting married and I had refinished some furniture for them. I was SO excited!! We were headed to Vernal when the yucky snow storm hit Utah. Long story short, we turned around and came back home. I was bummed. Really really bummed.

That's when we took those stupid lemons and made some mighty fine lemonade!!

When we got home, we decided to switch our winter clothes for our shorts and head to California... AWAY from the snow!

It was the most crazy fun spontaneous weekend ever!of course, with the spontaneous nature of our trip, it just so happened that my battery on my camera was dead for half of the time....

I had the greatest time sharing my most favorite place on earth with my family!

Dreams and priorities

2011-09-25T22:11:00.002-06:00

If I could have 3 simple wishes come true right now, my 1st one would be to have all of my chores magically and perfectly done for a few weeks without having to lift a finger.

My 2nd wish would be the time and patience to sit down and make this quilt...

And my 3rd would be the same for this quilt (x3. One for me, and one for each Grandma).
Someday my wishes will all come true, I hope...

Airport

2011-09-25T16:10:00.003-06:00

On Friday, I decided to take a drive and check out the new St George airport. It's been open for almost a year... so I figured it was about time to see it for the first time. I know, right? The last person in Southern Utah to see the new airport is ME! ;) The kids and I made a fun trip out of it. We parked. Went in. Bought a treat from the vending machine. and left. I can now say that I've been there. I know how to get there. It's beautiful. But, I must say, that my first impression was that it's little. I was expecting this big metro-area airport, I guess, because of all the hype. But, it's not. It's small, clean, quiet, and not too busy.

Ah, big city conveniences with a small-town feel. Now that's my idea of success.

Family pics 2011

2011-09-19T16:07:00.000-06:00

I love my quirky family!

First Day of school

2011-09-04T09:44:00.002-06:00

My "babies."

Ah, how they make my heart pitter-patter.

GREAT news!!

2011-08-29T22:29:00.002-06:00

Livvey's tumors turned out to be a case of mastitis! Yahoo! :) Whew. That's weird to be so excited about an infection.

But, we can deal with antibiotics!

We're thanking our lucky stars and counting our blessings tonight!

Livvey

2011-08-29T09:48:00.002-06:00

Back in January, when Livvey (our dog) found us, I wasn't quite sure I wanted to be a two dog family. In fact, I fought that feeling for a long time. Two dogs was just too much.

This morning, I took Livvey to the vet to be fixed. I had to face the fact that I was so nervous for her. Leaving her there was like leaving one of my children behind. Weird hu! When I got home the kids were crying because they couldn't find her & she wasn't coming when they called her. Okay, okay. I get it. We love her. She's a little ray of sunshine that we've all come accustomed to having around. Her spunky little puppiness is addicting.

I just got a call from the vet's office. Livvey has cancerous tumors.

I've read up (a few months back) that mammary tumors can be problem if your dog isn't fixed. My heart is so sad. I cant imagine life without her around anymore. (I know, I know. That's so backwards for me to say. I'm eating crow right now.)

The good news is: that once we have the tumors removed and she's fixed, we shouldn't have to worry about it anymore. That's a huge relief.

Hopefully in 5 hours, when I go pick her up, my heart will be able to relax and all will be back to normal once again. Hopefully............

Savoring the summer...

2011-08-06T19:45:00.007-06:00

So, about that goal of mine to make the last days of summer amazing.... um... well....

Tuesday, the kids wanted to play with friends - nonstop- all day. So they got their wish.
Day 2? Success. Check.

Wednesday? Ah, Wednesday. Ya, in SO many ways it wasn't the greatest day of my life. See, Tuesday night, I found a sprinkler pipe that was leaking a little bit... Enough that it needed to be fixed. No worries. My great friend, Jess, is a sprinkler whiz. One call to her and I had back-up to help me get it fixed first thing in the morning on Wednesday. One thing led to another, and every time we thought we had the problem fixed, it would break again- further up the line. UGH!!! Anywho, 4 breaks later (and almost 12 hours) I had water again. Ya. Wednesday, the kids were lucky enough to get to go to McDonald's for breakfast. They also got to play with my camera and take as many random pictures as they wanted...(there are some great ones! Paul jumping off Aaliyah's bed. Yep. On film. BUSTED! But he made up for it by doing the "Chicken Dance" frame by frame. Totally worth a good laugh!) That was about it. As for me? I had one of those "ah-ha" moments (No, not the 80's band, the other kind) when I sat back and counted my blessing for having such great neighbors and friends. They were there for me when I was in need. I am so blessed!!!
Day 3? Success? Close enough.

Thursday. Day 4. Perfect!! We headed over to the community rec center. I took a book & the kids had the time of their lives! I soaked in some sun and they swam their hearts out! Aaliyah found a friend from school...I tried to swim with my 2 kids and her 2 friends... but you know 2nd graders... Mom's are starting to not be the bees knees anymore.... a 3rd wheel. So, I got the hint, and let them swim solo with a constant check up every so often. :) See how nice I am?? We stayed until they were so tuckered out that they asked to go home.
Day 4? Absolute Success.

Friday. Day 5. Yep, we headed back to the pool at the rec center. SO happy to have a free 3 day pass! This time, we took friends! Friends that LIKE me hanging around them! HA~ take that 2nd graders!
Day 5? SUCCESS! I love my SUZ!

Saturday. Day 6. You guessed it! We totally headed back to the pool! :) With Suz and kids! I was actually sad when the clock said real time had to start soon & we had to leave so quickly. I'm pretty sure I could have successfully soaked up some rays. But the time we had was bliss. ;)
Day 6? Blissful success.

9 more days to go! At this rate, I'm going to be really grateful for school to start! All my "to-do's" are being put on the back burner and they're simmering!

SAVORING summer... or what's left of it.

2011-08-01T13:43:00.002-06:00

I realized this morning, that there's exactly 2 weeks from today until school starts.
Only 2 weeks until my "baby" starts kindergarten. Life will never be the same as it is right now.

So I decided to make a challenge for myself. Why not savor the rest of summer & really make an effort to do something fun everyday? My laundry will wait. My dishes will wait. Heaven only knows my dirty floors will wait. But my kids are growing up right before my eyes...and I can't make them stop and wait for me to me ready for them to older.

So today, being day 1: we made a chain to count down to the first day of school. A momentous occasion for them, a not-so-exciting adventure for me... I'm sure I'll enjoy it once I jump back into the routine. But hey, they're excited!

CHECK. Day 1 of fun complete.

Mark your calendars!

2011-07-15T15:39:00.003-06:00

On July 26th, I'm hosting a fabulous Lia Sophia party! It starts at 7pm... (shh.. but there will be a drawing for those that are on time! Yahoo! Freebies!) The theme for the party is PINK- so the more PINK you wear or bring or accessorize with, the more opportunities you have to win!

Oh, AND the other great thing is that the NEW catalog just came out! (YEA new stuff!!)

RSVP with me if you can come! It will be a blast!!

Summer vacation

2011-07-12T19:27:00.009-06:00

Aw, how I love me some summer...and when you throw a vacation in too, That's my idea of fun! This year, the kids and I went to see my family for a while. 3 weeks to be exact. It was amazing! For the first time in a long long time, I found myself really loving the small town feel... minus the times when I was shopping for something specific and couldn't find it ANYWHERE!!

So, here's the rundown of our awesome activities!! We saw our favorite cousins, rafted the Green River, camped in the same place that we did when I was 5 &6 years old- my kids got to play in the same stream I used to play in and climb and hike the rocks that I l.o.v.e.d. to play on.We crafted and made more hair "pretties" then I care to mention, we saw a parade...We enjoyed panoramic views of endless fireworks- despite the drizzle of rain- all thanks to the new law that ok'd the outlawed fireworks... oh, and the countless people that spent their months wages buying said fireworks... (thanks, by the way).

We "helped" Grandpa irrigate.... but decided to put all that water to a better use...
After all, it could just be considered "multi-tasking."then, I got to go "play" with my Dad. For the past few years, he's been involved in a shooting club. And old-fashioned-cowboy kinda shooting club. We practiced taking out a few "Evil Roy"s... and then I got to play "cow-girl" with him. The guns are pre-1900's manufactured (a requirement of the club) and we're supposed to dress the part... Ummm. Ya, was is my first time wearing a cowboy hat and wranglers.... but, the fun part was, that in 90 seconds, I shot 24 rounds of ammo with a shot gun, a rifle, and two pistols. I was the only person that day, to not miss any targets. ("Clean shoot"). It was a day for the journal! I out-shot my Dad!!

Did I happen to mention how much I love summer vacation??!!

I heart being creative!

2011-06-18T08:38:00.005-06:00

I can't believe I made this!! It's, by far, one of my most favorite items I've ever made!!!

And here's a few other things that I've been working on.... I swear, I really do get out of the house....(sometimes.)

They'll never know!

2011-06-11T14:28:00.004-06:00

I've been thinking today about how my children will probably never know that a kitchen table is supposed to be used for something OTHER than "craft central."
So here's a few of my latest creations...

Projects

2011-06-03T10:23:00.003-06:00

Just a few of my recent projects. Did I happen to mention how much fun I'm having with the Stampin' Up! products??? I L.O.V.E. them!

(By the way, a little side note, that WAY cute banner? Ya, one of my favorite die cuts... It's 40% off now ($24) and it's only available until the end of June or until it's gone... Let me know if you need one!)

Sit Livvey. Sit. Now Stay.

2011-05-14T15:35:00.003-06:00

Good Girl.

The kids went outside to play for a bit. Aaliyah was riding her scooter across the patio, back and forth. Back and forth. It wasn't until I looked closer that I saw Livvey enjoying her ride.
Nice, Liv. So glad you joined our family.

All in a day's work.

2011-05-13T10:34:00.003-06:00

I love how this kid's mind works. He amazes me everyday.

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-08T17:49:00.002-06:00

Mother's Day for me is usually very very blah. And that always makes me so mad. So, being the big baby that I am, I usually spend the day sulking and jealous of everyone else in the whole world but me.

But not this year!! YAHOO!!

The kids have been talking about Mother's Day nonstop for at least a week! I feel so special! It's like I've had another birthday this year without having to get any older! The kids have had "things" hidden around in their rooms with strict instructions to "not move the orange hat on the dresser." and to "not look in the window behind the closed blinds." Quite honestly, I have obeyed, and quickly replaced the objects that were hiding things, if I happened to accidently stumble upon them. It has been so fun! Aaliyah made fun things at school & church, and Paul made fun things at church. Yesterday I went to a vacant house in our neighborhood and cut myself about 2 dozen beautiful pink roses. And then, Friday night, there was the Beyond Charming Jewelry party that I hosted that was too much fun! (friends, chocolate fountain, making jewelry, and lots of laughter!) Oh, and breakfast in bed this morning, and an omelet before church, and I got to lay in bed this morning and read some of my book, the kids have been on their best behavior (I could get totally used to that!)... I feel totally pampered and loved!

Paul wanted to know when "Brother's Day" is so that he can have his own special day too...
My answer: "Not this week, bud. Dad's birthday is Friday, so maybe after that."

Happy Mother's Day to you!

update...

2011-04-25T12:34:00.003-06:00

This year has flown by & I can't believe it's the end of April! So, here's the Morris family update. My little lady turned 7. She FINALLY got herself a pillow pet. Yep, pretty much made her birthday.

Then she & Grandma set a date to get her ears pierced. She was SO brave! No major melt-downs and now her ears sparkle. It's something I've always wanted to do, but never had the courage to get it done. I was WAY more nervous then she was when it came time. I wanted to puke. She just grabbed a hold of the sides of the seat and held on tight.

Joey Logano's NASCAR came for a visit to one of our Home Depots. So we HAD to go. Seeing a race car up close was really cool- I must admit. Paul was beside himself with excitement, but he's very clear that Joey Logano is cool, but not his favorite driver. That title belongs to Carl Edwards. This mom is very behind on the times with NASCAR & I still have to ask my 5 year old who's who and what's what. Now what # is Carl Edwards?? Who's his sponsor?

Livvey is blending into our family and has found her place... she & Jon are fighting for "head of the household." So far, they're taking turns. :)

Oh, and we've also discovered how to get the kids to eat eggs. 3 dozen eggs. In about 2 days. The secret is to boil them, color them, and enjoy. Whew!

craft night!!!

2011-04-07T09:32:00.002-06:00

Last second decision!

Let's do craft night tomorrow (Friday) night
@ my house around 7:30pm.

Bring your own stuff-- or just come hang out! I need a girls night!

And if you're interested, I have the Stampin' Up "My digital Studio" (digital scrapbooking program) on my computer... come, and you can explore it to see what Stampin' Up offers for digital scrapping!

See ya then!

Do you have any secrets to share??

2011-04-03T22:26:00.003-06:00

Recently we were called to be the Emergency Preparedness Specialists in our ward. Cool. So now what? My thoughts have been stuck on the ideas of how I can be more prepared for everyday situations- You know, say, for instance, you're washing the windows and you run out of Windex. Now what? Quit cleaning & run to the store? Or how about if you're out doing yard work, and you start to notice how many nasty weeds are springing up. You've got your kids helping and the idea of handing them a bottle of ORTHO makes you uneasy. What's a quick and easy way to get rid of them (the weeds, not the kids) without breaking the bank? Which brought me to this:

Something to ponder and try out: 1001 uses for Vinegar. Click here for some really cool useful ideas!

Do you have any other fun "tricks" that you like to incorporate into your everyday life?? I'd love to know!

That's News to Me!!

2011-03-19T12:05:00.002-06:00

This morning, despite feeling quite yucky myself, Aaliyah and I took our little Livey to Petco (It's where the pets go- Sorry. I can't help myself from saying that.) They were having their "cheap" vaccination day. Since we don't know Livey's background, I thought that it was best- the vet was so helpful!

Come to find out, our "puppy" is actually 1-2 years old! Who knew?? I was sure she was only a few months! Which means, a big 'Hooray!' and hopefully she's full grown! 5lbs is Perfect for me! Another (not so big) surprise is that, the vet said because of her temperment- (she's so good and meek for us, although a bit sassy & she loves to cuddle with Diablo... but she wouldn't let the vet pet her or love on her & she growled at the other dogs there) it's most likely she was harshly treated and abandoned. Poor thing. We bought Livey a name tag and a polka-dotted harness. After all, in this Morris family, a fun personality is a MUST! hahahaha. Ya gotta have SPUNK!

All in all, my last minute decision turned out to be quite insightful for us! As for me, I want to find a quiet comfy hole & disappear until this awful sore throat & cough goes away.

Reflections.

2011-03-10T13:42:00.002-07:00

I've been thinking a lot lately and re-evaluating my daily life. Asking myself, 'What can I do to live my life more fully?'

One thought keeps coming back to me. Again. and Again. and again.

Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?
If not, I have failed indeed.
Has anyone’s burden been lighter today
Because I was willing to share?
Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way?
When they needed my help was I there?

Then wake up and do something more
Than dream of your mansion above.
Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure,
A blessing of duty and love.

There are chances for work all around just now,
Opportunities right in our way.
Do not let them pass by, saying, “Sometime I’ll try,”
But go and do something today.
’Tis noble of man to work and to give;
Love’s labor has merit alone.
Only he who does something helps others to live.
To God each good work will be known.

This my sound slightly cheesy, but these past few weeks have been so stressful for me-- and getting out and doing something has really helped take my mind off things. I'm so grateful for the Hymns and for what they teach us in our lives!!

So, here's my thought. What do you do each day to "lift one another's burdens??"

Why did it have to end??

2011-03-06T17:22:00.004-07:00

Yesterday was actually one of "those" days that I never ever wanted to end!

It started out by going to the Stamp-a-pa-looza of all stampapaloozas hosted by my favorite Jill Olsen. For $35 we stamped and crafted and had lunch and the party continued! Seriously. 9-4pm. So Many Projects!!! All I provided was... well, me. Everything else, including my own glue runner & lunch, was provided! Such a great deal!! My mom went with me & we had the time of our lives. So many new techniques that are WAY cool and WAY easy! The only bummer was that I had to leave at lunch time. Boo Hoo-- but the fun day actually continued!

You see, My wonderful hubby, got tickets for our family to go to NASCAR in Vegas. We've been to a few of the other NASCAR races as a family, but not "THE" real one. (Jon took just Paul last year). It was so much more fun to actually know the driver's of this race... actually, Paul (5) knows the drivers names and numbers- so I would ask him & then I could know what was going on. hahahaha. Anywho, Mark Martin won. It was intense. The car that had been in the lead for the last 35 laps or so had to make a stop for gas- and Mark took the lead in the last few laps. CRAZY!! My other favorite part was that Jon got us VIP parking passes, so we completely avoided the massive headache- AKA vacating the parking lot. We just smiled and waved as the other side of the freeway was at a complete standstill as far as the eye could see. WAHOO! We made it home early enough to have a decent bedtime.

I wish I could redo yesterday again and again and again!!

March craft night!

2011-02-28T21:26:00.002-07:00

March's craft night at my house will be held this Thursday the 3rd at 6pm. It will be a lot of fun. We will be making 2 projects and 2 cards for $10, or if you'd rather just socialize, bring your own stuff & hang out with us all!
If you want to do my projects, please RSVP by Wednesday so that I can make sure I have all the stuff I need!

Hope to see you there!

Can I get a WHOOP WHOOP?!!

2011-02-27T20:22:00.002-07:00

I can finally (after twelve and a half years) say that
my mission scrapbook is finished!!

When I came to the end of it tonight, I felt totally trunky to get home, and then all home-sick for Ohio all over again. Emotions. Emotions. It felt as if it were just yesterday that I had to tell all of my "family" good-bye. But, the great news is... IT'S ALL DONE AND DOCUMENTED!!

Can I get a WHOOP WHOOP!!

Finally!

2011-02-26T22:24:00.004-07:00

I'm so excited! I finally took a little while & explored "My Digital Studio!" and... I LOVE IT!

I am by all means a beginner- but I am starting to see why people digital scrapbook. I've wanted the program for a long time, but have never jumped in.

So if you need me, I'll probably be sitting here on my computer, creating and discovering a whole new world! Yipee!!

1 month

2011-02-26T16:47:00.003-07:00

This is Livvey. She came into our lives 1 month ago tomorrow. She was a little 4lb stray chiweenie (chihuahua daschund mix) wandering the neighborhood for a week before Aaliyah saw her. We went door to door. Checked with everyone. Checked the newspapers & internet.
No one claimed her or knew where she came from.That's when she melted our hearts with her love & we took her in. The rest is history.

Even Diablo likes her... well, mostly. She's such a busy puppy & he's such a older lil' fellow.
I've only tried to give her away a handful of times...
but then I look into her eyes, and forgive her for her puppyness.
It's hopeless. I'm a sucker for little pups....especially the ones who love to cuddle.

So, welcome to the family, Livvey. I'm so glad that you know where you "livvey" now.

First movie

2011-02-23T09:41:00.003-07:00

While Grandma & Grandpa were here, we took the kids to their very first movie... well, we took Aaliyah for the first time since she was 1 and it was Paul's "real" first time. We saw Tron Legacy in 3-D. The kids did amazingly well! I was so proud of them! They sat so still & watched so intently! I sure love these goof-balls!

Birthday Eve traditions.

2011-02-09T21:14:00.003-07:00

So here I sit, loving my life. Thinking I'm really enjoying the age I am. I walked/ran with the kids and the dogs today a few times, and didn't pass out... That's good, right? I stayed up kind of late last night volunteering to help clean the temple, and was able to get up and get going today without a nap. So, that's good, right?

Tomorrow is my birthday. I love birthdays. My favorite thing to do is to wear a new shirt (entire outfit if possible) so that I feel cute and special... So I went to the mall tonight, with an idea of what I kinda wanted. NO plain t's. I have a billion of those. I found myself in Hollister. In the clearance section, of course. I found what I wanted... and then it hit me.

I'm going to be 35?! Holy crappers. When did I get to be so old? And here I was, shopping in a hip-young-skinny person, store. (which is NOT how I see myself). The sales person was this tiny beautiful perfect Hollister model and I felt silly asking her questions. Anywho, back to my point. 35 and I found what I wanted to wear on my birthday---at Hollister. Actually, I got 2 shirts for under $20. Yahoo.

So happy birthday eve to me. Hopefully my new shirts will do the trick, and I'll look cute, young, and hip and not like I'm trying to be 19 again. AND, hopefully, 35 isn't too old to shop in Hollister.

And that's my random-ing thoughts for my last night of ever being less then half way to 70 years old.

Here's your chance!

2011-02-05T19:58:00.003-07:00

If you are interested in purchasing any products from Stampin' Up, I'm going to share my 30% off discount for this month ONLY! :) To top it off, the new Sale-a-bration book is out and there are TONS of way cute things, so if you spend $50+ you get to pick something out FOR FREE!! :)

Stop by, comment on my blog, drop me a note on facebook (or email), or give me a call!

Long distance friends!

2011-02-02T16:57:00.002-07:00

Okay! It's set up! If you don't live in St George, but still want to do my projects each month, let me know. The cost will be $15 (to cover shipping) for 5 projects. I plan to have a craft night somewhere around the first Friday of every month-

I'm so excited! I'm getting my Stampin' Up account all set up too, so if you ever need to buy/look at all of their cute stuff, I'll have my link up soon!! Hooray!

First craftin' the night away party!

2011-01-29T12:45:00.002-07:00

LET'S GET TOGETHER, YA YA YA!!

Our first party will be on Friday February 4th at my house starting at 6pm. You can either bring your own things to work on, or for $10 I will have 5 projects to do. My projects will be birthday and Valentine's Day related cards, etc. Please RSVP by Thursday, February 3rd, if you want to do the projects provided.

I was also thinking, that if you're not close by, or if you'll be out of town, but are still interested in the projects, we could work something out. My thought was, your cost would be like $12 and then I'd mail the supplies to you for you to put together or something?? What do you think??

Hooray! I'm too excited!

anyone??

2011-01-26T11:53:00.002-07:00

Hey, my brain has been running on overload lately. Is anyone interested in doing a card/scrapbooking/craft group like once a month? We can even do a card swap, and then work on a project & have a "show and tell" kind of table to show off your recent projects. Any one interested??

My big news!!

2011-01-21T16:04:00.003-07:00

Ok, so my big new adventure is....

I signed up to be a Stampin' Up demonstrator!

I am so excited, because of how far Stampin' Up has increased their product line!! For instance, did you know that they now sell FABRIC?? And CHALK BOARD VINYL IMAGES??? SO. CUTE!! It's not just cards and scrapbook pages anymore! And, the second (okay, maybe it really is the "tied for first") best part is, I signed up under THE Jill Olsen. She's been doing this for 22ish years, and she is amazing and has the best staff (two of my greatest friends, ever) who are willing to help 24/7. This is a huge answer to my prayers lately, AND I'm beaming with excitement!!! (As if you couldn't tell.)

So, girls, get ready to do some fun crafty get togethers while our kids run amuck and we ALL have a great time!! :)

by the way, if you want to see what's new, stop by or call me. I have the new catalog!!! WAHOO!!

So giddy!

2011-01-20T20:21:00.002-07:00

I'm so excited to take a new adventure in life! The opportunity has come to me to do something that I totally love- Something that will help me have more of a social life (I hope)- and something that I'm so so excited about!

Stay tuned for more info- The final details are happening tomorrow! YEA!!!

Merry Christmas from our house to yours!

2010-12-26T15:39:00.007-07:00

What a busy December we had at our house! Admist the chaos, we found time to be ginger bread house engineers-

Paul's "Great Wall of China" masterpiece.

Aaliyah's "secret agent house" (notice no doors or windows)

and Jon's "retirement chalet." Doesn't that look inviting!?

Then my brother got clearance to take his amazing wife through the temple, so we made an amazing trip to Vernal, making sure to take time to enjoy Temple Square.

The kids couldn't imagine why I made them take coats, hats, AND scarfs.
But, we stayed nice & warm!

When we made it to Grandma & Grandpa's house, there was LOTS of snow, and sledding, and games, and visiting and crafts & sewing... (and of course I forgot my camera charger, ugh.) Before we knew it, it was Christmas Eve & we raced home! We barely made it in time for the traditional Christmas lights drive & Santa.
Christmas morning, Diablo got his traditional "Jumbone,"

Paul got Thomas tracks, and race car tracks, and don't forget Hex Bugs galore.

I got a beautiful necklace, and an apron, and a few more of my favorite things.
Al got a car, and a dog, and a house, and her own animal clinic (for pet shops!).
(a car, a dog, a house, and a career. Nice. What were we thinking??)
And I love this pic of Jon! So animated! We FINALLY succeeded in surprising him which doesn't happen very often! He got a laptop desk & comfy reading pillows
& all the computer games he could imagine!
The rest of the day was spent playing, playing, and playing. Hope your house was as blessed as we were. What an amazing holiday season!

Missin' my Grandma

2010-12-07T22:51:00.003-07:00

I love this amazing lady. Today is/was her birthday. She touched my life in so many ways. I want to be a lot like her. She never missed a birthday, or anniversary, or special occasion. Her cards were organized in a file so that she knew which cards needed to go out on which days to make it to the person on time. Her hands were always so soft. She swore by Witch Hazel Lotion: it would fix anything; misquito bites, dry skin, etc. Her laundry smelled heavenly- a smell that my mom (who now does a lot of Grandpa's laundry) can't duplicate, even when using all the same soaps. When I got married, Grandma gave me a set of pillowcases. I stashed them in a plastic baggie & refused to use them for years- just so that I could savor the smell. She had the most beautiful alto voice. My favorite hymns are ones that I can still hear her singing to. She was so giving. So thoughtful. So heartfelt. So not afraid of telling you when she didn't agree with something you'd done...tactfully. She set the example of how to truly love your spouse. She and Grandpa always sat next to each other, either holding hands or touching each other. She always had a stash of lifesavers in her purse and a beautiful white hankey. After she passed, we found she also had a stash of candy in her desk drawer in her office. :) She always had ice cream in the freezer ready for the grandkids, and always had a spot for us if we decided to spend the night (even though I lived across the street from her). She loved Shirley Temple movies and Lawrence Welk. Eating at her house was always wonderful. Breakfast usually consisted of cereal, toast, milk, Orange juice, and a banana. I always thought having two glasses was cool. She loved her family and attended every family event until age would no longer permit. She knew each grandchild (all 30-something of us) and our spouse and our kids (close to 100 great-grand kids when she passed) all by name and age. She kept an amazing calendar with all our info & knew what we'd been up to or what we'd be doing. She made memories that will last forever.
My list could go on and on.
I love you, Grandma. Happy Birthday to one of the most inspiring & amazing women I've ever met. I'm honored to be your grand daughter.

All too familiar with this.

2010-11-30T10:36:00.003-07:00

Here's an update at our house: Jon's in the hospital. The kids and I are working on nasty colds. Emotions are running high. We need a vacation- preferably one that Jon won't get sick on because he took time off work. Mom will be here tonight. Then I will feel like I can relax a bit. We should know within the next few days if Jon needs surgery, or if we can get back to real life soon. (We've been thru this before. Thankfully this time I'm not 7 months pregnant.) I'm having anxiety attacks about how dirty my house is and how badly I need to do yard work (stress induced, naturally).

Diverticulitis is swelling (inflammation) of an abnormal pouch (diverticulum) in the intestinal wall. These pouches are usually found in the large intestine (colon). The presence of the pouches themselves is called diverticulosis

Small, protruding sacs of the inner lining of the intestine (diverticulosis) can develop in any part of the intestine. They are most common in the colon, especially the sigmoid colon, the lowest part of the colon.

These sacs, called diverticula, occur more often after the age of 40. When they become inflamed, the condition is known as diverticulitis. Diverticula are thought to develop as a result of high pressure or abnormal pressure in the colon. High pressure against the colon wall causes pouches of the intestinal lining to bulge outward through small defects in the colon wall that surround blood vessels.

Diverticulosis is very common. It is found in more than half of Americans over age 60. Only a small percentage of these people will develop the complication of diverticulitis.

Diverticulitis is caused by inflammation, or (sometimes) a small tear in a diverticulum. If the tear is large, stool in the colon can spill into the abdominal cavity, causing an infection (abscess) or inflammation in the abdomen.

Complications:

Abscess formation (CHECK)
Narrowing (stricture) in the colon or fistula formation
Perforation of the colon leading to peritonitis (CHECK)

GRRRR!

2010-11-24T07:57:00.002-07:00

Dear person who stole my wallet last night-
YOU SUCK. As you spend my hard earned $22 may your conscience be ridden with intense guilt. Please be haunted by the thought of me and my family every second of everyday.
Happy freakin' Thanksgiving, JERK!

Sincerely, Me.

Any guesses?

2010-11-22T11:38:00.002-07:00

Any guesses for at what age my children will be SO embarrassed and want to disown me?? This is my Thanksgiving creation for Aaliyah. Paul has one too- out of boy colors. :) I think I'll just enjoy their enthusiasm for my creations for now. At least they have cute/handsome/cool t-shirts to wear on "the BIG day!"

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T13:06:00.002-06:00

Halloween was a success this year! We all had a blast & gorged ourselves with candy & refilled the candy bowl & had fun with our friends! Can't beat that! Aaliyah was Belle from Beauty & the Beast, Jon was the Vault Dweller from the "Fall Out" games, Paul was a Pumpkin (he designed the face himself! He was very specific with the pumpkin's facial expressions), and I was Raggedy Ann. Also shown with us is Baby B- as a chick-a-dee. She's a great little girl that I bbsit & we absolutely adore! Hope your holiday was as great as ours!

It's that time again!

2010-10-09T21:36:00.002-06:00

Every year, I get to do something that I love. I really love getting new family pictures. I love displaying current pictures. I love comparing them to past pictures. I just love them. My walls are filled with my favorite memories from the past years. My hubby is such a good sport about it too. So, here's our amazing experience for 2010.

SO cute!

2010-10-05T11:14:00.004-06:00

I saw this lady on a show today- She has such CUTE Halloween and Thanksgiving ideas! Seriously, who would have thought about using tulle around a battery operated candle to give it a "mummified" look?? So cute & tasteful for family decorating! Or getting a few of the cheap plastic pumpkin candy buckets and painting them? I LOVE IT!

http://sassystyleredesign.blogspot.com/

Getting creative!

2010-09-30T20:44:00.003-06:00

So I had this idea. Make some easy pajama pants and create a shirt to go with them. A little strip of extra fabric and a little random ribbon and ta-da!! My creation is complete. What do you think??

FINALLY!!!

2010-09-28T20:39:00.003-06:00

I'm so pleased to announce that Aaliyah FINALLY lost her first tooth tonight! Hooray~ It's been hanging on by one thread since the beginning of August! We went on a walk through the neighborhood to find her "most important friends" to share her good news with! It was cute. Paul keeps saying that the tooth fairy is bringing her "Fifty-Thousand Dollars!" Good luck with all that, Paul.

For the second year!

2010-09-26T22:40:00.002-06:00

Yesterday we were able to go down to Las Vegas for the NASCAR Truck races. It was so much fun! Last year was our first time doing anything NASCAR related- and now, Paul is a huge NASCAR fanatic! Seriously, his "quiet book" is the program book from the races this past March. And may I dare say, it's amazing! Or, rather he's amazing! Since March, he has memorized the drivers of the cars, their numbers, the cars main sponser, and is currently working on the drivers' birthdays. So having a program book of the truck races (although not nearly as cool as the book from the car races) will open up a new adventure for him! Another great thing this year is that we were able to surprise our friends with tickets for their family to go with us! What a treat for us! It was a great race, with lots of suspenseful spin-outs & a great outcome! I can't wait for next year!!!
Thanks Les Olson Company for a great night out, and thanks to our friends for coming with us!!

Here Ducky ducky

2010-09-01T12:40:00.003-06:00

Sunday the kids and I went to the golf course to feed the ducks. It was our first time going... and I thought that I was prepared with a whole loaf of bread. Um, ya. Was I ever WRONG! The kids were just getting started when the loaf was gone. Now we know. Stock up on cheap bread/old bread before heading to the duck pond. There were a lot of ducks, so it made it even more fun. I learned I can skip bread (much like skipping rocks) and the ducks would chase it as it went out. I'm SO grateful that the weather is starting to cool down a bit so that we can get back outside and do fun activities like this again!! Wahoo!

Happy Birthday!

2010-08-17T12:50:00.003-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AVERIANA!

Today is a day full of mixed emotions at my house.
I'm SO thankful for the support we have and for the determination we have to make today wonderful! I can barely wait for school to let out for our celebrations to begin!

Oh, and thanks to Roberts Crafts for having a 50% off your entire purchase sale this morning! It was a HUGE mood booster! (THANKS RACHEL for telling me where you were when I called! Oh, and thanks to the hubby for supporting me and encouraging me to have fun!)

Here's to a Fabulous day filled with cake and balloons and fun projects!

Good-bye summer. Hello 1st Grade!

2010-08-12T09:43:00.003-06:00

Well, sadly enough, the summer is officially finished. Alarm clocks and schedules have now taken over free time and restful mornings.

This girl is so excited to be in the 1st Grade! She had a little anxiety over school lunch & if she'd like what they made for her-which gave me anxiety & thoughts of her starving to death all day- but after school, she announced that "school lunch is AWEESOOMMEE!" *Hooray!*

This is the beloved "Hello Kitty" backpack that was a surprise for her. I had her convinced that she needed to use the backpack from last year... upon further inspection, I realized that the bottom of it was worn OUT... hence, the surprise backpack! She was so uber excited for it!

Our tradition is that Daddy gets to take her on the first day. Aaliyah was all prepared for her first day, including a picture for her teacher. I hope her excitement lasts for YEARS to come!

Getaway

2010-08-10T14:16:00.003-06:00

This past weekend, Jon and I ran away together, WITHOUT any kids. We went to Vegas! This was our view from our room! We stayed at Bally's.

We met some friends (for the first time in person), that Jon has known for years via the internet/podcasts/online games.

We hub-bubbed with the big-wigs on lots of Sony games and marveled over the games and played a few too.

We met some people that were dressed as characters from different games... and we ate the most amazing Italian food ever created! It was so much fun! I love vacations!

um. ya. I need to ramble.

2010-08-01T23:08:00.007-06:00

Growing up, Christmas was always a double edged kind of holiday. My sister passed away unexpectedly on December 23 when I was 5. I remember that day clearly. In my family that day has always a somber kind of day. Always.

So, now I'm grown up, and I'm a mom now to 3 beautiful children. And it's August, once again. I've dreaded August for the past 11 months, yet here we are. 16 days away from my angel's 1st birthday. My mind can't help but be in "birthday countdown" mode! I usually really love birthdays- from sun up to sun down, it's YOUR special day. But instead, this time, it's in the quiet moments when I feel lost & unsure of what I should be doing and what I should be feeling. It's then that the quiet little reminder of my broken heart speaks up. I feel like something is missing. I should be preparing for a huge celebration filled with 2 cakes- one for my special girl, and the other for everyone else. Yet, here I sit. Thinking about what will take place on her special day. The tears that will flow. The empty arms. The laughter that never came. We will take balloons to her "spot" & eat cake. That's for sure.

In so many ways, I don't want August 17 to be a somber day. It should be a celebration. But, I'm torn. My heart continues to ache and I miss my baby. I dream of what she should be doing now. Of the funky ponytails and beautiful bows that would adorn her dark hair. I remember her little spunky personality and ability to make me laugh, whilst still in the womb. I dream of the relationship that would be had between her and her brother and sister. Of how different my life would be, had she been born, alive & healthy. Yet, so goes the rambling of a mother who has experienced loss. Who's life has changed and who's life will never be the same. Who's baby is no longer in her arms, but is in the arms of loved ones, on the other side of the veil. With our Savior.

I think of how my life has changed in the past year. Of how I didn't care if the sun ever rose again. Of how certain I was that I was a burden to my family and needed to go to the other side and love my baby. Of how, in the grand scheme of things, I'd convinced myself I was nothing- easily to be discarded and unnoticed. Of the endless heart wrenching tears. I've learned a lot about myself- whew. A lot. But the sun did rise. every day. And God carried me through the months when I couldn't walk on my own. I've seen His hand in all things, more clearly then I can understand or put into words. I've learned more about the human body & how hormones can affect everything- for a very long time- following a tragedy. And, oh, the countless blessings. The things I never knew would come our way. I've learned to look for miracles...ones that are always happening, and going unnoticed. I've learned to love more deeply and to understand more fully the teachings of our Savior. So many simple gospel principles are no longer simple to me. They are essential. Our Savior has promised us eternal life...a chance to be with my Averiana, and not have to say good-bye ever. again. You bet I'm on board. My foundation is on a rock (with a few grains of sand yet to be washed away- I'm FAR from perfect). I'm so vastly different from who I was a year ago. I'm so grateful for my friends and family. I'm so indebted to the Savior for teaching us compassion...and for Relief Society for showing us how to be compassionate and how to love unselfishly...and for Primary leaders who have taught my children the songs and the simple truths that I have relied on and desperately needed reminded of daily. I've learned in the past year that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is my everything. Without it's truths, the Plan of Salvation, and the Atonement, I am nothing. But with it, we are everything. We have everything.

I just want to scream and cry and throw a monstrous fit until someone gives in and lets me have Averiana back. NOW! And trust me, if I thought it would work, I would....but I understand, I need another lesson in patience- but, someday. Someday, I will see Averiana again. I will see my sister again. And someday, I will be in the presence of my Savior-kneeling at His feet. Thanking him for my blessings and -crazy enough- for my trials.

Until then, I will be striving to keep every August upbeat. I don't want my children to dread August. I want to be celebrating, dang it. Celebrating the fact that Averi is part of our eternal family. I will be doing my very best to be my very best. Because that's all I can do.

Camping & Flaming Gorge Dam

2010-07-17T09:17:00.005-06:00

It has literally been YEARS since I've been to the Flaming Gorge Dam. Growing up, we went at least a few times a summer. Can I just say, A LOT has changed since 9-11. The kids loved feeding the fish...

As soon as the food hit the water, swarms of fish (which were actually HUGE! The picture doesn't do them justice) would jump and eat the food. There was no question where your food pellets had fallen. For me, there was no question who had held onto their pellets the longest. Whew. Those things STINK!! When their hand fulls were gone, my kiddos were the ones scavenging the pellets off the sidewalk that had been dropped to continue their fun as long as possible... maybe my lectures of not wasting things have sunk in... probably not.
While we were there, we took an elevator down into the dam. The tour guide was discouraging the little kids from bouncing/jumping. Not too long ago, a boy scout group was taking the tour and they jumped while in the elevator - causing the elevator to stop. They (all 25 boy scouts & their leaders and the tour guide) were stuck in the elevator for 6 hours. It was a funny story until the tour was over and we were headed back to the visitor center. Our elevator that only had 1 level to change, broke. The inside part of the door would open, but the outside half was stuck shut. The tour guide had a little cell phone reception, so she called for help & eventually (maybe 10 minutes later tops) she figured out how to manually open the other half of the door. YAY! Talk about excitement.
That night, my cousin took the kids for rides on her Rhino Ride. They had so much fun. (Paul is in the red shirt, waving). They could have rode all night... darn that sun for going down and ending the fun. We had so much fun hanging out with our family and meeting new "friends" and the camping was AMAZING!!

Packing it all into one week...

2010-07-04T12:05:00.004-06:00

My niece, Maloree, came down to visit and we've done our very best to help her experience all St George has to offer! It has been a whirlwind of fun! We've gone to the splash park and swimming (trying to get her at least ONE good tan line!)...
We went to "most" of a St George Roadrunners baseball game. By the 6th inning, the kids were done, so we left. It was still great though.
We've hiked the DIXIE Hill. That is something that after living here for 10 years, I'd never done. Honestly, it was gorgeous! I will most likely take my kiddos up there more often. They did great hiking around and having a great time! We've watched movies while waiting for the 4th of July fireworks And we've seen St George's amazing display of fireworks!
More exciting adventures to come throughout the next two and a half days!! I love having Mal here. We've always been really close & it's always so much fun to spend time with her!!

Hogle Zoo part two

2010-06-28T14:19:00.003-06:00

As per popular request...here was our system we worked out. Paul and Maloree rode in the wagon. Aaliyah drove... it was an adventure! :)

Hogle Zoo

2010-06-28T08:46:00.003-06:00

This weekend we went to the Hogle Zoo with some of the loves of my life. It was so much fun. The night before, my Grandpa (who is 90) decided to go too. It was an amazing experience for me. He's so young at heart! He had a great time & requested to see the baby "Zuri" elephant, the monkeys and the kangaroos. When he got tired, they left to go home and I took the motorized wheelchair back to the rental place (after a brief tour of the park on it.) I just have to say, my grandpa - who is a retired school bus driver- has major skills! He managed to run the wheel chair in and out of the tightest places without a problem! I had a hard time making it go STRAIGHT! All in all, it was a great day and So many memories were made. I love my family!!!

Paul tired to get the Rhino to move.... don't worry. It's still right where it was before we got there.

BABY ZURI

It's the simple things in life.

2010-06-17T18:50:00.002-06:00

The best things in life can happen anywhere at anytime.
On days when you least expect it.

Some would say, "It's about time!"

2010-06-11T13:31:00.002-06:00

So, I did it. I finally broke down and watched Twilight. The suspense was killing me to know what in the world so many people were obsessing over. My feelings on it? Well, if a Matt Damon look-alike had played Edward I'd probably be an Edward fan. :) hahaha. I will say though, I will probably watch the other ones now. Anyone have a copy I can borrow?

A Day Out with Thomas.

2010-05-28T23:22:00.002-06:00

What an amazing fun-filled day. What more can I say? Paul tried to soak in every single minute of being surrounded with Thomas and trains. He was in heaven. The rest of us loved watching him and had a great time... I was in charge of the video camera and Jon had the digital camera... with over 200 pictures we should be able to remember almost every detail of today!! Did I happen to mention how LOUD a steam engine is when you're right next to it & it blows it's horn?? Holy smokes. No pun intended.

I really love spring!!

2010-04-22T13:44:00.001-06:00

There's no better time to sip on an icee and watch the roses bloom...

fun onsies

2010-04-21T09:52:00.003-06:00

I made these cute little onesies for a friend's baby shower. I love how they turned out!

26 cents worth of fabric and a little ribbon. I love it!

Free shirt

2010-04-20T21:49:00.002-06:00

Size: small/med. Perfect LONG maternity/dress kind of bottomed shirt. Woven fabric. Pull over style (no buttons or zippers). New. Never been worn. I cut the pattern out last year, and finished it today to get it out of my "project" box. Let me know if you want it, or if you know someone who would want it.

Look who's 6!

2010-04-14T10:27:00.002-06:00

Wow. The time has flown by. Happy birthday Aaliyah!

The results are in.

2010-04-09T09:25:00.002-06:00

So it's still a work in progress, but I'm in love with my work this far!

Our backyard... with just a touch more color... (the flowers are still coming in)

My roses. 8 of them. Red, Yellow, Pink, White, & tri-colored... More flowers coming in....

And the finished project. What do you think?
Personally, my love grows everytime I think about it!

Wanna know what else?

2010-04-08T21:35:00.003-06:00

Here's my other pass time that has got me hooked. We bought our house in October 2008. Here's what it looked like:

Notice the huge ugly trees next to the overgrown hedges under the windows?
I know, what windows? Right? They're almost hidden.

This should get an award for the most uninviting backyard ever. All rocks and one tiny palm tree in the midst. I'm not complaining, but it's so much better now...

Stay tuned for updated pictures.... I know. The suspense is killing ya. hahaha.

I gots me a new hobby...

2010-04-07T22:02:00.005-06:00

AND BOY OH BOY! IT'S ADDICTING!!
So here's the scoop. Our ward put together a service project- The primary was involved. The young women were involved. And yours truely was in charge of the Relief Society's part of it all. We made quilts for the humanitarian aide. It was amazing. I could really feel how amazing it must be for a mother, who has lost everything, to have a new quilt for her family. One week prior, I had never pieced a quilt together. My quilting frames were brand new- having never been used. But that all changed very quickly. I am, by no means, an expert at this, but I'm sure enjoying this new hobby!

This is the "practice" quilt we (my mom and I) made for my cousin who is about to have a baby.

Then Mom and I went shopping for more fabric. Can I just add how fun it is to shop with a fabriholic mother?? This was my first quilt to sew on my own...

Then there was this one. I really love this one because I borrowed a Big Shot from my friend to cut out the flowers... I love this one because it's so fun and unique!

This is the baby quilt that Aaliyah help me make. We actually quilted this one with a needle and thread. Aaliyah had a blast. She'd beg to just quilt instead of going to bed at night. Her seams weren't straight, but that wasn't the point. She helped me so that we could give it to a baby that needed a cute blanket. She was so proud of this one. I, in turn, am one proud momma.

So that's where I've been. If you need me, you can find me in one of the hundred quilting/fabric stores in town, or hovered over my computer figuring out which cute pattern I should try next.

WOW!!

2010-02-14T21:53:00.001-07:00

St George, Utah becoming a new mission seperate from the Provo, Utah mission (effective in July)? Wow. That's really cool.

good deal!!

2010-02-12T17:10:00.002-07:00

For those of you in the St George area, FYI. Target has a lot of "bulk" items on clearance in the back of the store by the outside furniture/patio stuff. Theres bars of Dial soap, liquid softsoap (2 big refills for around $5), diapers- Huggies and Pampers (!), mouthwash, Neutrogena face washes, feminine products, cereal, crackers, pillows, really nice towels (6 for $9.99), markers, picture frames, toilet paper, toothpaste, etc. So if you're looking for a good deal on the "every day stuff", head to Target!!

What's your favorite?

2010-02-08T15:14:00.002-07:00

I'm trying to help a Kindergarten room mother think of more ideas for a class party. What are some of your favorite Valentine's Day crafts?

"Mans best friend"

2010-02-08T09:51:00.002-07:00

I must admit. We really do have the coolest dog ever. He's full of spunk and personality...but in his old age, he really loves to cuddle. This past few weeks we've had the winter's best colds and now the flu. Our dog has been more then happy to just cuddle all day and all night with whoever is under the weather. It really warms my heart when he loves up to the kids. He takes such good care of us all. We love our doggie!

another good deal

2010-02-02T21:25:00.003-07:00

Even though both of my kiddos are officially out of the "baby section" sized clothes, I find myself wandering through them looking for a good deal. Why? I have no idea...

anywho- if you have a little girl up to a size 4T, the Washington Walmart has they're way cute Christmas dresses for $3 now.

more great deals!

2010-01-26T19:28:00.003-07:00

Seriously! The Children's Place in the outlet mall here in St George is crazy right now! Almost the whole store is $2.99 and $3.99 (that includes sweaters and dress shirts and dresses!)!!! 3-in-1 coats are now $9.99!! I know I'm a bit overly excited, but this cute sweater that I've had my eye on forever went from $35 to $3.99. AMAZING!

YUMMY!!!

2010-01-21T11:15:00.004-07:00

I was thinking. Today would be a great day to try and be a good mom and let my 3 year old make some cookies while sister is at school. Better yet, let's DOUBLE the recipe and have cookies for all our friends too!! Anybody want a cookie???

mmmmmm?.

Anybody wondering what happens when you forget the flour??? Hmmm.
Well, that was half of the cookies.

We added the flour to the rest of the dough... and WAALAW!
Magic! Cookies!

Little Chefz

2010-01-18T11:46:00.002-07:00

Last week, the kids got to use our certificate for a free class at the Little Chefz cooking place. I'm not sure who was more excited; Me or them?? They had so much fun. They got to wear little aprons and make their own pizzas to take home... of course, they wouldn't eat them because they put pepperoni's on them. Silly picky eaters. I can testify that they were good though. :)

Good deal!

2010-01-05T14:25:00.002-07:00

Since I love a good sale, I thought I'd post about my findings today! Osh Kosh in the Outlet stores is having a sale on shoes. Up to 70% off! I bought Paul some new ones for $9. (don't you love how in a matter of months their shoes go from HUGE to so tight and little!)

And they had way cute jeans for girls for $10!

Giggles

2010-01-04T21:31:00.002-07:00

I love it when my little boy looks so handsome that it gives me the giggles!

Deep thoughts keep running through my head.

2010-01-03T17:10:00.003-07:00

Have you ever had an experience, where a baby that you may or may not know (not your own), waits to get your attention and then makes eye-to-eye contact and never looks away? Then starts to get all excited and goo and coo and smile from ear to ear.

It makes me wonder what they're thinking or what they're trying to say to us.

That happened today during church. It was as if the baby knew something that I didn't know & she was desperately trying to tell me. Her mom kept changing her position, but the little baby wouldn't look away. After church, I had a brief conversation with the mom. She's new in our ward and her baby was born August 12. Only 5 days before my sweet Averiana.

Some days, I question my sanity. Was that little baby trying to tell me that we'd met before? Did she know my Averiana? Did she have a story to tell me?

I wish that I could've made the world stop spinning so that I could've focused and listened to what she was trying to say.

Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T12:38:00.004-07:00

This year was so much fun. I think my favorite part was laying in bed listening to the kids squeel when they saw everything. It was great! The kids got "wiggle bikes" but, I think I might take one of them over! They are so much fun!!! My second favorite moment was when I was on the wiggle bike and Aaliyah was pushing me around while wearing her roller skates! Good thing the whole house is tile! :)

Traditions

2009-12-24T22:25:00.004-07:00

Today we added a new tradition to our Christmas Eve celebrations. We were able to take a beautiful wreath to Averiana's "spot." It was a happy visit, but hard. Our family ornaments this year are beautiful crystals that reminded me of the chandeliers in the temple and of the message that rings loud and clear "FAMILIES ARE FOREVER!" Merry Christmas!

A good laugh for me.

2009-12-19T15:08:00.002-07:00

This morning, my hubby took my busy-son to Maverik to get us all a treat. Upon returning home, Paul quietly drinking his Icee, Jon begins to empty the bags. When to his surprise he finds a Gatorade. Come to find out, while Daddy was paying, Paul ran back to the cooler, picked out another drink, and put it on the counter without Daddy noticing.

So it gets better. Jon decided to just put it in the fridge and save it for himself for later, because the idea was for the kids to have 1 drink/treat. Not 2. Once Paul's Icee was to the point that it had to thaw a little before he could drink more from the straw, he went on the hunt for his Red Gatorade with the green top.

Seriously, who knew that a 3 year old could be so... so... organized to have a back-up plan for when he had to wait for his Icee to melt???

Needless to say, I had to turn away because I was laughing SO hard!

Our Tree

2009-12-03T23:04:00.002-07:00

We finally got it done. Our tree is up! I love it!

This is about how long Paul's attention lasted before he wanted to get into my "pretty" ornaments (aka the breakable ones)... so I gave him my camera for entertainment.

This is what I got. Aaliyah making funny faces for him. Oh, and 50 pictures of the tv.
Thank goodness for digital cameras!

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2009-11-21T15:31:00.001-07:00

This is a really great video that I came across while studying for my relief society lesson.

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

My handsome little guy

2009-11-17T14:54:00.004-07:00

I took Paul into the doctor's today because he has an ear infection. (tis the season, right?) As I was trying to talk to the doctor, Paul was being his wonderful busy curious self. I gave him a little bag of Swedish fish to bribe him to sit down and be quiet. (I know. Sugar to calm a kid? Whatever works.) To my surprise, what does he do? Shares his candy with the doctor. Hahaha. I love when doctors connect with kids. We heart our family doctor! :)

ahhh.

2009-11-15T19:52:00.003-07:00

It's finally done. Our baby-doll has her "marker" for her "spot." My heart is so full of gratitude today for the Lord's tender mercies and all of the unbelievable blessings that we've enjoyed over the past 3 months.
Today at church part of the lesson in Relief Society touched me. We learned that our trials are OURS. They are our opportunities to learn and grow and to become more like our Savior. As strange as it may sound, I'm grateful for the past 3 months. I'm grateful to know that we survived the trial of losing our baby. I'm grateful to have gone through the hard times that are included in the grieving process. I'm definately not the same person that I was, and I'm grateful for it. Most of all, I'm grateful that this "marker" doesn't signify the end of Averiana. It's just a symbol of all of the good times that will come- in the Lord's time. I'm grateful that she's waiting for us to join her. I'm grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ.

SEP conference

2009-11-11T13:18:00.002-07:00

On Monday, Aaliyah and I went in to meet with her teacher to talk about how she's doing in school. My heart was touched when her teacher explained to me the effect she has on a certain boy in her class...

There is a boy in her class who is autistic. He has a full-time aide to help him. Sometimes, the aide has a hard time getting him to do things. Aaliyah's teacher said that Aaliyah is very careful to watch him. She's very good with him & can get him to do things that the aide can't. She includes him in activities and encourages him with his work.

When I asked her about it & told her how proud I was of her, she responded, "He's my friend."

I love when little kids set such great examples for us.
It really is the small and simple things that count.

My new discovery

2009-11-09T16:05:00.002-07:00

I found a new talent of mine today. Come to find out, I'm EXCELLENT at making dust-bunnies appear. Crazy, hu! Who knew! Now, if I could just channel this talent and make a profit from it...

Family Pics

2009-11-08T16:05:00.004-07:00

We got our family pictures done this weekend... (prepare for picture overload!!) I love all of them! The only thing that could have made them better is if Averiana could have been in the pictures with us. My heart missed her so badly yesterday. It was a great day though, she was there... we just can't see her! :)

Get prepared Al. This WILL happen to your future boyfriends that bring you home late.

It was so much fun to do the traditional family pictures & then to throw in the silly ones too!

Too early?

2009-11-07T15:46:00.002-07:00

What do you think?
Since Thanksgiving is coming up, and I'm incredibly grateful for Christ, is it too early to put up my Nativity set? I don't have any Thanksgiving decorations! Would that count?

Halloween 2009

2009-10-30T10:31:00.002-06:00

I did done made my momma proud.

This year I made the kids' costumes. Ali is SilverMist (Tinker Bell's Fairy friend) and Paul is Luigi. I figured out that making costumes is actually fun - it makes your brain work to come up with things that will work - and the housework that you neglect actually just waits for you. ;)
Happy Halloween everyone!!

Fall time

2009-10-24T19:50:00.002-06:00

It's amazing the difference two weeks can make during when comparing fall colors! We were just in Zions a few weeks ago but when we went back on Friday, there was a whole new color pallet! It was such a nice afternoon and picnic. Thanks for going with us Suz!

wow

2009-10-15T12:55:00.004-06:00

Today is the big day. My actual "due date." I've tried to not let myself get too carried away with thinking about it. So it was a really nice surprise to see a hot air balloon while we were walking home from taking Ali to school... then we noticed it was LANDING right in front of us!! What a special treat! I've never seen one so close before! I'm such a geek and HAD to look to see what the inside of the basket looked like. Was there seats or straps to make sure the riders never fell out? From what I could see, no. The basket was SO small for 4 adults! I found it very fascinating! What a great way to start my day!

(Please ignore the sun-glare in the pictures. I only had my cell phone camera...dang it!)

VEGAS!!

2009-10-04T08:53:00.004-06:00

Yesterday we made a quick trip to Vegas to get Grandma from the airport...We decided to head down a few hours early so that we could hang out for a bit. I always forget how fast 3 hours can go while you're sight seeing! I love being on the strip and seeing the different hotels and the designs and layouts. It never ceases to amaze me. We tried to stick to the more "kid friendly" places (HAHAHAHA) since we were there in the evening time. Granted, last time we took the kids, Aaliyah was a tiny baby in a stroller. This was a DIFFERENT experience! I found myself wanting to cover her ears when the guy sitting in the middle of the intersection was handing out "passes" to a new "club." All in all, it was a great evening, despite the "joys of sin city."
We started out at Treasure Island but after waiting for 30 minutes, the show was canceled, due to the breezy/windy conditions. Bummer, since we had a GREAT spot to see the show. While we waited, the kids practiced their Pirate Eyes....Then, we crossed the street and went to Italy. Ok. It was really only the Venitian Hotel, but I've always wanted to say casually that I went to Italy.
Paul decided that there needed to be Pirates in Italy... He practiced his "eye" the whole night. Silly boy. But seriously, the Venitian Hotel is one of my favorites. I'm fascinated by the whole "gondola and river INSIDE and OUTSIDE the hotel" thing. We were laughing, because thanks to the cartoon, Little Einsteins, our kids knew all about gondolas and the pyramid (Luxor Hotel). Thanks Playhouse Disney for educating my kiddos!
I told Jon he looked all too natural in the picture with his dark Italian hair and other characterics, it was destiny, and we NEED to go to Italy one day. After all, that IS where his ancestors are from. :) It only seems right.

When the night was coming to an end, we found a place to get ice cream. Ben & Jerry and I go way back... I was so excited to see that they were there to let us indulge in their ice cream and top off a perfect evening! YUMMY!!!

Back Seat Driver!!

2009-10-02T20:59:00.005-06:00

Today we had a great time at the park with lots of our friends... on the way home, Aaliyah was being particularly inquisitive. I was being bombarded with "why" and "how come?" So, I broke down and gave my 5 year old her first driving lesson while she remained safely buckled in the back seat in her booster seat. Ironic enough.
"Why are you going so fast?"
"Because the speed limit is 45, so I'm going 45."
"How do you know it's 45?"
"Because of the white sign that reads S-P-E-E-D L-I-M-I-T"
"Is it always 45?"
"No, It depends on what road you're on."
"Is that other car going 45 too?"
"Probably. They look like they're going as fast as we are."
"What happens if you don't go 45?"
"Well, If you go faster then a police officer pulls you over and gives you a ticket."
"Oh. Then what happens?"
"Then you have to pay lots of money."
"Oh," (pause)
I take a deep breath, wondering if she's done or gearing up for more. We turn onto a different road.
"Mom, what's the speed limit now?"
"45 again."
"Oh. When's it going to change?" (Conversation continues for another 10 minutes with her noticing every time we passed a new sign...)

For the love! I am so happy that she's so much more aware of her surroundings now that she's in Kindergarten, but really?? She's 5 for cryin' out loud. By the time she's 16 I just might have the drivers ed manuals memorized, just for the sole purpose of answering her questions in depth! Until then, AHHHHH!!! I have a back seat driver!!!

NASCAR Truck series

2009-09-29T14:34:00.002-06:00

Thanks to Jon's job, we were able to get out of town this weekend for a new experience... the NASCAR Truck Races in Vegas. Our tickets were in the Executive Suite! It was amazing. I was slightly worried how the kids would do, since I pictured the races going on and on for hours on end. (See how little I knew about races going into this??They were only about 3 hours long total.) To my surprise, they did AWESOME! I feel bad for whoever had to wash the window where Paul was sitting though - his little face was pressed against the glass 99% of the time! I can't even explain how much fun it was. I love the rush of being at live events! The buzz of the trucks as they flew by was thrilling! We all picked our favorite truck and cheered them on... My lucky little yellow truck took first place while Ali's perfectly pink truck took second (or maybe it was third. It was close.) After the race, they had fireworks... that's always the perfect way to end an evening, as far as I'm concerned! Who knows. Maybe someday we'll be a NASCAR-junkie-family! It really was THAT much fun!

How do you watch TV?

2009-09-27T22:51:00.002-06:00

When we were first married, we noticed that our neighbors who lived below us always watched TV in the same spot - meaning, he would sit on his end of the couch & she on the other end with a big bowl of popcorn in between them. Every night we would see them through the front window on their respective ends of the couch. It's always made us laugh though out our marriage to take note of where we would sit while watching TV together.

One night, the kids were watching TV before bed time & I could hear uncontrollable laughter. I went to check on them. Here's what I found. They said this is their favorite way to watch TV!

What a good dad!

2009-09-25T18:22:00.001-06:00

Last week we went to "Math & Literacy Night" at school for Aaliyah. School activities are a totally new experience for us! One of the activities that night was to go to the library for a theatrical story time. Jon did a great job on his part of the "Praying Mantis!" The kids and I cheered extra loud for him when he read his part! Way to go Dad! You made the night even more fun!

And so it begins...

2009-09-24T18:26:00.007-06:00

*HUGE DISCLAIMER* This post contains my real, raw, feelings.

(Now that you've been warned, here it goes. Please don't take anything contained herein as offensive or weird. I really am mentally stable. lol.)

And so it begins. When we were merely 6 weeks pregnant (back in February), we were thrilled to share our good news with Jon's sister and her husband. We were even more thrilled when their response was "WE ARE TOO!" Oddly enough, L and I were due a little over a week apart.

It was an amazing experience to share with her. We decided a long time ago that we'd just drop the "in-law" part of the relationship title, and we'd just settle as "sisters." What a great blessing and honor that has been to me. I was finally a "big sister." Something I'd dreamed of since I was a little girl.

It was so comforting to have someone who really understood when I was so sick and tired that I wanted to die... and I could really feel her pain too! :) It was the best feeling to have someone asking my opinions to her questions on pregnancy & maternity things & to have someone to shop with for clothes & baby items. I have lots of other pregnancy-buddies, but having a sister experiencing the same things, was unreal. It was so much fun to be able to compare growing bellies and stories of when the firsts happened with my "sister"... the first kick, the first ultrasound, (or in my case, the second ultrasound, the third ultrasound... and the fourth ultrasound). The news spread quickly that she was having a boy, and we would have a girl. Jon's mom was beside herself to get "one of each" so close together that she planned and saved all of her vacation time to use at one time and be here for a month. It was to be a huge celebration. We had it all planned out. Babies at the same time. Blessings at the same time. You get the picture. 8 months of planning and talking and bonding. Our kids would experience life together being so close in age and living in the same town. It was perfect!

Then the unbelievable happened. After a picture perfect pregnancy with no complications and no hic-cups our perfectly healthy & busy little Averiana was stillborn at 31.5 weeks. It's been 5 weeks now, and it all feels like a dream. In the blink of an eye, we became the owners of a plot at the city cemetary. Our dreams and plans for the two babies were gone.

And so it begins. The REAL plans of what was supposed to happen. Tonight, L is sitting in the hospital preparing to welcome her little guy into the world. As a big sister would, I've given her my best advice & answers on what to expect & how things should go... and what food she HAS GOT TO ORDER from the hospital's room service. YUM! Seriously, it's good enough to have a baby- just to eat there... or at least go have lunch at the hospital's cafeteria once in a while. Lucky doctors and hospital staff!

I've debated with myself for the past few weeks how I'd feel tonight. Angry that I'm no longer pregnant? Hurt that we never got to hear Averiana cry? Confused because I was supposed to be 'almost done' when L finished or that my emotions and hormones are still trying to straighten back out? Excited? After all, it is her first baby. I guess I'm typing this, telling my story, as a last desperate attempt to still figure it all out. Tonight. Tonight is the night.

What I do know is, is that God's plan for us is perfect. I'm amazed by it & more grateful for it then I can express. Averiana is with Him. She's closer to us then we realize too. She's a part of our family. We have 3 kids. I'm trying to remind myself that we didn't get ripped off. We got an angel.

So how do I feel??? I'm anxious and excited. I've been invited to the hospital tonight & I feel deeply honored. Here's to another step forward out of my shell & my comfort zone that I've created for myself. I've tested the waters - and I feel as prepared as possible. I've got my goggles and scuba gear on. I'm ready to jump in. Tonight, I get to have a bonding experience with my "sister" and her husband, like no other. I can't wait. I feel emotionally prepared to handle this. Sitting here waiting for the phonecall to come, I feel like a football player who is in the hurdle, getting all pumped up to go beat their rival team. The game is on. I want to beat my depression & love this new little baby tonight. I want to hear him WAIL! I'm willing to admit that tomorrow I might bawl my eyes out, but that's part of the joy in this journey.

I don't want people to feel awkward around me anymore-searching for the right thing to say. I don't want people to feel "guilty" because they're still pregnant & I'm not- Turning away when I ask how they are or when I mention anything regarding our experience. Wondering, if I'm coping with the cards we've been dealt. I want to be "part of the crowd" again. There are too many babies about to be born & I don't want to miss out on the joy. Besides, those babies, KNOW my Averiana and they were just with her. I want to fill my empty arms momentarily with them. There's nothing like a newborn. I love my friends & want to celebrate their miracles along with them...

My only plea to those around me is, please forgive my pregnancy brain. It's still very much intact when it comes to trying to remember things and me being "weird" at times. lol. And please understand my 3 year old when he randomly walks up to you and strikes up a conversation that starts with "My sister, Averiana, died." He means well. ;) I'm not, by any means, perfect, nor do I profess to have this figured out. I'm just an average person relying heavily on Heavenly Father's love, the atonement of Christ, and the rest of what I know to be true. Why we were chosen to have this experience, I'll never understand... not in this lifetime, anyways. But, I'll take this trial. I'll do my best to see it as God sees it. Afterall, is it really a trial? Or is it a blessing in disguise? I'm a different person and we are a different family, than we were last year... all for the better.

My favorite quote from President Hinckley says "...Life is like an old time rail journey...delays, side tracks, smoke, dust, cinders, and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas, and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride."

So, again, here's to a night of excitement & anticipation & new experiences. (Deep breathe). Come on phone, RING!!!

I LOVE YOU L & S!!!

Thought for the day...

2009-09-23T11:42:00.000-06:00

August family reunion

2009-08-31T13:33:00.002-06:00

We went on our last camping trip of the summer during the first week of August. (I know, I should have posted this weeks ago.) It was so much fun to have Jon with us this time! I know I'm a sap- but this family picture was the last picture of our "whole" family (me being pregnant). It's amazing how sentimental this trip has become for me.

Paul loved laying in this hammock. At night he'd beg to go out and have a "good night's sleep" in his swing!

The kids LOVED having Jon around so much. He's usually gone to work when they wake up, so to have him around ALL day EVERY day was a huge deal! I'll admit, I really enjoyed it too.

Grandma was prepared for everything- so when it rained for a few hours, Aaliyah was able to keep playing outside... with Grandma's umbrella! It's SO much more fun outside in the rain!

Let's not forget all the great rides on the 4 wheelers! Let's just say, my kids are addicted! :) This camping is one of the best traditions to end the summer with!