Our Blog

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T19:04:00.000-07:00

Brandon-Buddy the Elf (he wore this hilarious costume to the office)
Nash-Mummy
Canyon-Vampire
Paige-Bee
Our pumpkins before:

And after.

Growing up...

2010-09-23T16:48:00.000-07:00

Anyone still out there?? I have been horrible this summer, and almost gave up on it completely. Until, I read through my blog and decided I needed to keep going at it since scrapbooking around here has not been happening, and doing this keeps things organized for future reference.

So Paige is now 18 months old and I can hardly believe it!

She has developed such a fun personality. She loves to run into a room and say "boo". She loves to do silly things to make her brothers laugh. She loves to play outside. She is such a sweetheart. She loves to snuggle and give long cuddles to everyone, and she's a great hugger. She loves people and most always has a big smile on her face. She just brightens up my day! The boys really enjoy having a girl around. Nash loves to take her outside to swing. Canyon is the sweetest with her and they definitely have a strong bond. Coleman likes to talk to her in his cute baby voice, and he likes to make her scream by bugging her. And she is a HUGE daddy's girl! We are so grateful to have her in our family. Here are her favorites, and what she is saying these days.

Favorite Song-BINGO and Animal by Neon Trees (she loves to sing the "oh,oh" part)
Favorite Animal-puppies, she will stop and want to pet every dog she sees. She loves to say "I see a puppy".
Favorite Book-Any book with puppies or kittens
Favorite Toy-Balls, purse, baby doll
Favorite Foods-Spagetti, Pizza, bananas, grapes, salad (yes, she is weird)

Recent Phrases:
"I see a puppy"
"Guys, EAT!", she likes to yell this down the stairs to the boys when I am setting the table.
"All done"
"Eyes, Nose, Mouth"
"Night, Night"
"Help you", she says this when she needs help with something.
"drink"
"Mama, Daddy"
"no,no"
"I gotta go potty, poo, poo."
"I did it, Yeah!"
"more"
"Woof, woof"
"Meow"
"oink"
"Moo"
"Sheep", "Bah, bah"
"bye, bye"
"up"
"owwweee" (ouch)
"pretty", as she points to her hair
"slide"
"I got it"
"Good girl"
"Don't"
"MINE!"
"kitty"
"Boo"
"Na" (Nash)
"I wanna eat"
"Peek-a-Boo"
"stinky"
"cookie"
and this week she added "candy" to the list

My first Triathlon

2010-04-14T09:07:00.000-07:00

So I did it!!! It was such a blast, and I can't wait to do it again and improve my times, or do the Sprint which is twice as long. This was a perfect beginner Triathlon! It was a 200 yd. swim, 5 mile bike, and 1.5 mile run. I know, really short huh?! I didn't do as well as I wanted, but I did okay. I placed 12th out of 24 in my age group. I really need to work on my transition time, it was way too long.

Here we are in the transition area getting ready for the race.

Here I am after the race with my cute and patient family as they waited for me to finish. I know I look like a drowned rat, but I really did have fun, even though I don't look very happy.

It was so fun to do this race with my Brother Ryan, Nikki (Ryan's girlfriend who kicked all our butts) and my sister Amy. We will all do it together again soon!

7, 8, 9, 10 & 11 months

2010-03-24T20:53:00.001-07:00

Obviously I haven't updated on Paige in months. Just want this for my records. I can't believe she will be one year old tomorrow!! She has been so fun, and we have all enjoyed having her in our family. Can't wait to celebrate her birthday this weekend. Happy Birthday Baby, we love you!

7 months (Oct-Nov):
First Halloween-Kitty costume
Loves gerber baby snacks
Smiles at everyone

8 months (Nov-Dec):
clapping hands
First Thanksgiving
Cut her first two teeth.
Loves to smile her big cheesy smile.

9 months (Dec-Jan):
First Christmas
First word-"kitty"
LOVES to wiggle and dance to music, at home or at stores.
Likes to eat most everything, except for green vegetables.
LOVES finger foods the most.
Reaches pretty far for toys without falling over.
Refuses to get up on her knees.
Pushes herself backwards and rolls to get where she wants to go.
Still reaches for anyone to hold her.
Likes walk around holding one of our fingers.
Clicks her tounge.
Loves to rub and try to bite daddy's head.
Tried a little sleding for the first time.

10 Months:
Says "ma ma", "da, da", "kitty", "hi", "bye,bye",
Started crawling
Still loves finger foods
Refuses to eat vegetables, I have to sneak them in little by little
LOVES to snuggle with mom and dad
Gives brothers hugs
Loves to tell her brothers "bye, bye" at bedtime
Loves to smack her lips and give kisses
Likes to pull the kitty's tail, still does it even when the cat retaliates
Starting to get into cupboards
Pulls herself up to the coffe table and stands up
Loves to groove to music. She bops her head and wiggles her little hips (so adorable).

11 Months:
Tries to sing with "Ba, ba, ba's".
Still dances whenever she hears music.
Gives her brothers high fives.
Loves to be pushed around on Lightening McQueen by her brothers
Says "Ohhhhhh" when she gives hugs and snuggles.
Pats her baby dolls back when she holds her.
Loves to wash herself with the wash cloth in the tub.
Cruising along the coffee table and couches and beds.
Loves to explore the house now and gets into a lot of things.
Likes to eat anything she finds on the floor, but when we tell her "no, no, yucky", she will hand whatever she has to us.
LOVES to take a bath.
She loves to drop things on purpose just so she can say "uh-oh".
She likes to drive cars and around and say "vrm, vrm".
Cut four more teeth.
Touch and feel books are her favorite.
Her newest words I can add to the list are: "uh-oh", "nigh, nigh" (night, night), "puppy", "all da" (all done), "mo" (more) when she wants more food and she always nods her head when she says it.
She is starting to scream and tenses and shakes her little arms now to get my attention, or when the boys are bothering her.
Eats almost anything, she is just picky about what vegetables she will eat.
Still struggles drinking much out of a sippy cup, and she doesn't like cow's milk (not sure what to do about this).
Loves and sometimes hates all the attention she gets from her brothers.

Tiger

2010-03-09T08:59:00.000-08:00

Our cute little kitty died over the weekend. I noticed on last Tuesday that he was seeming more tired than usual, and he wasn't drinking as much as he usually did. Then he disappeared for a few days, which he did sometimes, but he would always come back. I was starting to get worried about him. I checked in our shed thinking he got locked in there, he wasn't in there. I called for him in our yard and he wasn't around.

On Saturday morning Brandon went out in the backyard and saw Tiger under one of our big bushes trying to stretch out a little into the sun. Brandon said, "hi, Tiger", and he didn't meow he just looked at him with sad eyes. He brought him inside and I was so sad cause he looked so tired and sick and he had been laying in his own excrement.

Brandon took him to the animal hospital. In the ultrasound they found his kidneys to be very enlarged and a little unusual looking. His red blood cell count was really low. There wasn't really much they could do for him. They weren't sure what caused it, but they were thinking he had some kind of kidney malformation or disorder that he was born with. I told her that he drank at least 3 bowls of water a day and was always up at our sinks meowing for more water. They said that was pretty unusual for cats. They said we could sent him up to get an autopsy done, but we didn't want to. So I guess we will never really know what caused him to get so sick.

So I took the kids there to say their good-byes and it was heart wrenching! Nash and Canyon cried and cried, then we were all crying and the doctor came in and she was crying. Tiger had looked so miserable at my house, but now he just looked peaceful and was giving up. It made me sad. So they put him to sleep and we left. It was a good life lesson for the kids and it was a good opportunity to talk about the Plan of Salvation. And to tell them that we will all live again together in heaven some day. We just need to focus on doing what is right while we are here on this earth, so we can have that blessing.

Nash cried about it for a few days. Canyon asked through his tears if we could get a picture of Tiger and put it in their room. What a great idea. So this is the picture that will be up in their room so they won't forget their Tiger.

We love you buddy and we are missing you!!

Brandon's first love, and his new love

2010-02-18T16:09:00.000-08:00

I am sure you are all thinking that I was Brandon's first love. Grievoulsy, I have to tell you that I was not (sigh). Brandon first fell in love with a girl who was born in 1979, yes one year younger than me. She was a tough and sweet little thing. Not everyone would say she was beautiful, but Brandon would say she was stunning. He loved taking her to new heights and taking her on new adventures, many of which I have heard about with some jealousy and admittedly, a little fear. He always took good care of her and I know that she really appreciated him. I am sure she appreciated him as much as I appreciate how well he takes care of me now. She was one lucky gal. But, he had to end that relationship shortly after we got married, it just wasn't working out anymore. It was just getting to be too much and things were getting a little complicated. And we were moving across the country and he knew the relationship would rust if he couldn't care for her everyday. And the expense was too much for us.

He recently had a a chance to rekindle the old flame with a newer version of this true love. She was born in 1997 (I guess he likes them young now, I can't say that I blame him). I didn't have a problem with her at first, but after him being gone for hours and hours with her I started to get REALLY frustrated. Then she started having all these problems and some of her physical aspects needed improving. So Brandon was gone often trying to fix her problems and improve her self esteem. It was almost the end of us-until I saw the new and approved version of her. I felt much better and I knew all his efforts and time were worth it, and I could tell that he was happy too! And that made me happy. She stands taller now, in fact she is quite a bit taller than Brandon. She is comfortable, constant, stable and reliable now, and she is gorgeous!! Who couldn't be with a man such as Brandon, working so hard and taking such care? I have come to appreciate her too, and in some strange way she has brought our little family together. I think a lot of you probably know her or one of her sisters. They surely get around (if you know what I am sayin', wink, wink). Let me just give you a hint...

Wow! Just that small glimpse might set Brandon's heart a flutter!! Okay, one more hint...

I think you might have guessed it!

Yes, her name is Toyota Land Cruiser. (We have yet to give her a nickname.)

Isn't she a beauty? This isn't even with all the improvements.
She has brought our family together (more thoughts on that to come). Although she did take a lot Brandon's time and caused a lot of stress in the beginning, it was worth it. I know Brandon isn't done with all improvements, but I am glad he has found her.
(I hope everyone understands that I am being totally dramatic, except for the part about it taking too much of Brandon's time, ha, ha.)

Our Valentines

2010-02-14T08:25:00.000-08:00

This is how we started out our Valentine's this morning with a little holiday inspired breakfast, heart pancakes, heart strawberries, eggs and ham. YUM!!

Brandon ate by candlelight and dined with music (provided by Nash). Sorry about the pictures, I was too lazy to set up my tripod.

Then the boys got their treats from us.

We will spend the rest of the day being lazy, going to church and then eating a Valentine's dinner at Grandpa and Grandma Weeks' house with all the cousins. Yeah! Hope you all have a great Valentine's Day!

Alibis for my Absence

2010-02-03T19:50:00.000-08:00

Besides raising 4 kids, this is what I have been doing besides NOT blogging.

1. Keeping up with this cute thing. She is now crawling and needs her mommy more these days.

2. Trying to keep both of these kids occupied and entertained during the day.

I might also add that my afternoon alone time is now limited due to Coleman laying in his bed for an hour and not falling asleep for nap-time (6 days out of the week). I am sure he is done with naps, which is really sad because for the last 6 months or so he was taking one almost every day. We will see what this month holds, although it isn't looking good.

3. Reading The Mortal Instruments trilogy (which I loved).

I am finding that I really love fantasy books, they are so entertaining. They are making the first one into a movie and I can't wait!

4. Swimming, running, and biking 5 days a week.

My training for a Mini Triathlon I am doing in St. George in April. I have wanted to do one for a long time. It is a really short one- a good place for me to start. I am really excited!

5. Washing, folding, hauling and putting away this every week. It seems to be growing more each week. I had to mention it because it is a HUGE part of my day.

6. Attending Nash's basketball games and practices.

7. Planning and attending scouting activities each week. Including the Pinewood Derby (pictures to come). Yes, I am a leader of the Wolf pack, and I really like it.

8. Decorating and trying to at least complete one room in the house. I am almost finished with Nash and Canyon's room.

A big step up from their purple room -2 years in the making. My boys wanted a "camo" room, so it was their idea. I thought of the pattern, and my sister-in-law was the one who helped me pick the colors and helped me lay it all out. I couldn't have done it without her. I think it turned out so fun! Next I need to complete the finishing touches on Paige's room.

9. Researching and shopping for healthier foods. We are trying to get in better shape around here. It has taken a lot of my time surfing the web and a lot of time at the store reading food labels. I am going to miss you white pasta, white rice, white flour and white bread. I am going to miss you Peanut Butter Crunch and Fruity Pebbles. I am NOT going to miss you chocolate because there is no way I would give you up-I just might not eat you as often (maybe).

I am also trying to come up with a different dinner menu. We are so tired of our spagetti, taco, lasagna, stroganoff, and BBQ chicken and rice menu. Anyone have any recipes they love? I would love any ideas in this area.

10. Playing Super Mario Bros. Wii with my boys. I love that game, it takes me back to the good old days.

11. Going on fun little outings with my little family. Here we are in Park City...

we stayed at Brandon's uncles condo. It was a nice relaxing weekend of sitting in the hot tub, eating yummy food, sledding and taking walks. We stopped in Midway to see the ice sculptures and eat at a local Mexican restaurant. Good times.

Hopefully I will make blogging more of a priority while continuing to do all the necessary things.

Should I be worried?

2009-12-10T16:18:00.000-08:00

I was busy cleaning up the kitchen the other morning when I heard Coleman say, "I need a blanket mom." I looked over at him and this is what I found. Funny boy!

My Home

2009-11-17T18:35:00.000-08:00

I recently took an intermediate photography class. One of my many assignments was to take a picture of something that represented my home. I thought of a million things I could do, but nothing really stood out as being spectacular. I had remembered seeing some cool pictures of reflections on bubbles and had always wanted to try it. I thought that my home was kind of like 'my bubble' and it would be pretty cool to capture that. So, for half an hour I blew bubbles and frantically chased them around in my front yard with my camera. (I am sure my neighbors thought I was a little looney.) This picture isn't as cool as some I have seen, but I managed to get a few decent ones after Brandon came out and helped me. I will definitely keep trying to get an awesome bubble picture. Anyway, it got me thinking about what home is for me. Well, this is what home is for me...

Hugs, kisses and I love you's
Fits, tantrums and time-outs
Dirty, sticky fingerprints on doors
Rowdy, loud wrestling boys
Smiley, happy, and giggly Paige
Shutting the fridge and turning out lights
Fevers, coughs and cold cloths
Warm blankets and hot water bottles
Telling childhood stories with snuggles in beds
Dancing, singing and being so silly
Disagreements, investigations, hearings and rulings
Teasing, taunting, and some name calling
Making beds, scrubbing toilets, and vacuuming floors
Giving encouragement, drying tears, calming fears
Clipping nails, brushing teeth, doing hair
Wiping noses, and wiping bums
Playing UNO, Slamwich, Incredible Hulk Smash, and Dominos
Squeezing cute bums (little ones that is)
Squishing cute cheeks, and kissing cute noses
Laundry, laundry and more and more and more laundry
Sleep and lack of sleep
Baths and holding wrinkly kids in towels
Pearler beads, crayons, and paints
Homework-science, math and reading
Bouncing, rocking, and patting backs
Dinners, dinners. The. Same. Old. Dinners.
Little baby snuggles and little baby hugs
Movies, game cube, legos and Wii
Basketball, friends, scouts and soccer
Asking and reminding, and asking and reminding again
Bedtime stories and a Bushel and a Peck
Scriptures and breakfast, FHE and family prayer
A lot of "It's not fair!"
'Ugh's', rolling eyes and throwing up arms
Tag, Leap Frog, and Hide n' Seek
Pushing swings, and sliding down slides
Disappointments and frustrations
Up the stairs and down the stairs and then back up again
Kids slamming doors and yes, some yelling here
Snuggling Brandon on movie nights
Proud moments and happy tears
Me-flushing unflushed toilets again and again
Packing lunches with little notes
Feeding my babe-Again? Didn't I just do that?
Little fingers squeezing my face and pulling my hair
Tucking kids up TIGHT in their beds
Kissing each soft, peaceful, sleeping child
Waking up to start again

Paige: 6 months update

2009-11-12T09:53:00.000-08:00

*Loves to giggle to her brothers in the car
*Sleeping better at night (usually only up once)
*Sick for the first time-no fun
*Loves to see her daddy walk through the door
*Getting more unsure of strangers
*Is content to play in her saucer now
*Sitting up really well, and can reach for things
*Snuggles mommy and daddy
*Holds tight around our necks when we hug her
*Likes to rip my hair out, and she does it fast
*Can't sit in bumbo anymore-she can almost get out
*Has a silly, funny personality, she loves to giggle
*Refuses to get up on hands and knees
*Perfected rolling
*Getting longer and leaner
*Acts coy with strangers
*Happy baby
*Loves to splash in the tub
*Snuggles with her favorite stuffed animal giraffe at nap/bedtime
*Can pick up food with two fingers and feed herself

Mr. Distracted

2009-11-06T13:04:00.000-08:00

I thought I would continue on with my "Mr." theme. It makes me write down stories that I just don't want to forget, and I think it gives you all a good idea of what my kids are like.

I could have MANY different titles for Nash, like Mr. Active, Mr. Social, Mr. Giver, Mr. Kind, Mr. Thoughtful, Mr. Talk back, Mr. Sass, Mr. Affectionate, and Mr. Messy Face and Shirt. But, the one I chose for this title fits him the best lately.

Nash is easily distracted. He gets distracted when he gets ready in the morning for school. He gets distracted in school, and he gets distracted when I ask him to do things at home. We have been dealing with it for a while, and it is slowly getting better. But, when Nash really focuses-he does a SUPERB job at what ever he does and really goes the extra mile to make us happy. (Which is why he is currently still living.)

In the morning, my boys are expected to get up shower (if necessary), get dressed, make their beds, and have socks on their feet before we go down to read scriptures and eat breakfast. We call these things "automatic" things. Whenever they hear the word "automatic" they know what we are talking about. It's doing those things they are expected to do automatically without having to be asked. Like putting on their seat belts in the car, taking dishes to the sink when they are done eating, and getting ready in the morning. There are some mornings when Nash gets up and does all those "automatic" morning things before I am even out of bed. Those times I usually find him down stairs, ready, and waiting for me. (I love those mornings!). Then there are those mornings where I have to ask him to do EVERYTHING 5 to 6 times. He even gets REALLY frustrated at himself and is constantly saying, "sorry, I got distracted by my legos, or by that book, or by my Star Wars guys". I know he is trying, and he is starting to get better. Then there are those mornings where he gets mad at me because those "automatic" things I am asking him to do are wasting his time. Oh boy, something happens when little boys turn 7. They get an attitude and somehow we are the bad guys. So, I never know what is going to happen on which morning. Although, lately he has been doing it automatically.

How does this affect him at school?-Nash has been missing a few assignments (either lost in his desk, or just not completed). A few weeks ago he kept forgetting to bring his Math book home so that we could finish them. So, one day when he got home from school, I drove him right back and we went into his classroom to get it. The classroom was set-up so that 3 groups of 6 desks together were in the back and 4 desks were up in the front in a row all about 2 ft. apart from each other. Nash showed me where his desk was. He is front and center in that front row which is separated. I asked his teacher if he was up there because he talked a lot. She smiled. "Yes." She said. "Nash is very social, and he gets distracted easily. I would love to have him sit right here up by me against the chalkboard, but I think that would make him feel bad. I think he would probably focus a little better though." Nice. Oh my poor little Nash. That made me feel bad, but frustrated at him at the same time. Despite him getting distracted, he is a good student and likes to participate and he really is doing pretty well in school. He just has to bring a lot of work home because he doesn't finish it. I think that other kids can hurry and finish their work and then have some "free time". But, it takes Nash a little longer and then those having free time are distracting to him. He said he is doing better, and he has brought less work home. He just needs to find ways to keep himself focused. I think I have found that when he talks out loud to himself while doing his school assignments, he can focus better because he is listening to himself and not other noises around him. Anyway, we are working on it.

Nash LOVES to be outside, and I love that! He is either riding his bike, playing soccer, basketball, or exercising (as he calls it). He loves to play with friends and has quite the little social life and social circle. Sometimes I have to remind him that he is only 8 years old. He would love to hang out with friends until late at night, every night. He is a good friend too. A nice one you can always rely on. And he is a FUN friend. He always knows how to make things fun.

He doesn't like people to feel bad. He won't let people make fun of other people. He will say, "hey that's not nice to say that about so and so, that's making fun of them". One time Nash and I were watching American Idol. The episode where the really bad singers are on. I was laughing pretty hard at someone singing. Nash looked at me like 'what are you doing?'. He said, "why are you laughing? Don't laugh mom, he is trying to do his best". Oops, he put me in my place. He is most always concerned about how others are feeling. Isn't that so sweet!! What a great quality to have.

A few summers ago we went to Lava Hot Springs with all of Brandon's family. We took several pennies and put them on the railroad tracks to smash them. When we went back later a lot of them had fallen off without getting smashed. The kids all scrambled to find a smashed penny and there just wasn't enough for everyone. His little cousin Gracie started to cry because she didn't get one. Nash was quiet for a few moments, then he put his penny in her hand and said, "you can have mine". I was so proud of him. I knew Nash really, really didn't want to give up his penny-he had been looking forward to it all afternoon. I could tell that he was trying not to cry. He just knew he should give up what he wanted because he didn't want her to be sad. I love that little man! He's so sweet sometimes.

Last month we had a FHE where we went around and shared what we liked about each family member. Nash had SO many nice things to say about everyone. He went on forever and he really enjoyed expressing his feelings to us, and the spirit was so strong! It was so nice to see that. He really does have a GREAT desire to be good. He's a good boy (most of the time, just like I am a good mother half of the time).

So we will keep working on helping Nash not get distracted. Any other ideas out there that might help with that? I know a few of you are teachers. Anyway, we love Nash and he is a such great older brother to Canyon, Coleman, and Paige!!

Recessionista Party

2009-11-04T12:16:00.000-08:00

If you haven't heard about Recessionista Party you really need to check it out! They have some really cute stuff!! And, they are having a giveaway right now.

My sister is co-hosting a Recessionista party on Thursday, November 12th here in Utah. You can read more about that on my sisters blog-The Idea Room. If you want an official invite you can email her and she will send one to you. It sounds like a blast. I will be there for sure!

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

My boys weren't willing to get their costumes on and pose for pictures today. Guess that will have to wait until they are all dressed up tonight. But, I did get my little Paige to pose for me. Doesn't she look so cute in her costume? Can't wait for all the festivities tonight. The kids are so excited!

Here are the rest of the troops...

And, the rest of the troops in action...

Poor Baby

2009-10-21T15:14:00.001-07:00

Brandon came down with something icky Saturday night. Paige came down with it two days later. (I guess Daddy gave her too many kisses over the weekend). They thought it might be the Swine Flu, but she tested negative.

I haven't had a sick baby for a while and I forgot how much snuggle time they need. I have loved snuggling my little girl, but I hate seeing her feeling bad. She's such a happy girl, that she still gives us those charming smiles in between her grumpiness. Hope you feel better soon baby. And hope it doesn't spread anymore. I LOVE the fall, but hate the cold and flu season!

California!

2009-10-16T19:28:00.000-07:00

So our trip was such a blast, the weather was pretty close to perfect, and it was so fun to be able to surprise the kids. We told them we were going to Disneyland in November, so they were expecting to go there eventually. They were counting down the days. Our flight left at 8:00pm on the 7th of October. So I was able to get all the packing done while they were at school. I left my bag out and told them I was going on a small trip with my mom (cause she was going to take our car home after dropping us off at the airport). They were a little bummed that I was going somewhere and they were staying home.

We picked up my mom and drove to the airport. When we got there we said, "okay, everyone out of the car". They all said "What?" We said, "we are going to Disneyland right now!". They didn't believe us at first, and Nash thought it was a dirty trick to play on him. But, as soon as it sunk in they were all cheering, except for Nash. He looked a little nervous. I asked him what the matter was and he said, "I am going to miss a lot of assignments at school". What?! What eight year old would worry about school when they were going to Disneyland? Anyway, he was done worrying about school as soon as we got on the plane.

So we spent 3 days at Disney. It was so fun to go back and experience it again. Brandon and the kids had never been, so it was fun to show them things I remembered. And it was fun to see all the new things. I talked my kids in to going on all the rides they were tall enough for even though they were a little nervous at times. Coleman and Canyon were both pretty brave boys. They don't share Nash's enthusiasm for adventure parks.

Nash's highlights: The Jedi Training Academy (which was pretty awesome)! As you can see he was pretty into it.

He also loved spending his earned money (probably on the top of his list, ha, ha), the Indiana Jones ride, Jungle Cruise, Splash Mountain and the churros! Here is a picture of all the boys on Splash Mountain. You can really tell that Nash loved it.

Canyon's highlights: Splash Mountain (although it doesn't appear that way in the picture above), Jungle Cruise, and Pirates of the Caribean. Making his double light saber. I am not sure any of them liked the Haunted Mansion although they didn't cry on the ride. (I am not that mean).
Coleman's hightlights: Buzz-Lightyear ride, Jungle Cruise and the Nemo submarine, and being a complete dancing, jumping SPAZ from lack of sleep, but he was SO happy.

Paige's highlights: being entertained by all the comotion, riding in the stroller, taking naps, and snuggling with mom all night because she wasn't a good sleeper at the hotel (yeah, for mom!). And putting on her adorable Mickey Mouse hat.

We were able to see the Halloween firework show which was pretty cool. The boys were all half asleep and they were so tired, but once the show started they thought it was pretty awesome.

The boys made out with Light Sabers that they designed themselves, some lego guys and Mickey Mouse hats.

And you can't go to Disney without a picture of the castle. This was the only place I could get one without a million people around. I seriously just wanted to yell, "okay people, everyone just step back for 5 seconds while I get a picture of the castle, please!!". But, Brandon wouldn't let me.

We hit all of the big rides and most of the little ones. I really felt like 3 days was perfect. We had just enough time to do everything we wanted, and we didn't get too burned out. So then we had to leave Disneyland.

The next day we drove one hour South to Legoland. The kids LOVED this place, Brandon and I thought it was pretty fun (not as clean as Disney). They had a "Brick-or-Treat" trail which was pretty fun for them. They were able to ride some fun rides and build race cars and race them. Nash and Brandon especially enjoyed riding this Bionicle ride.

The last day we went to Huntington beach. I forget how much my kids love the beach. It was the coldest day of our trip (in the low 60's), but that didn't stop them from getting a little wet. Paige enjoyed watching the birds flying, watching her brothers playing in the sand,

hanging with her daddy,

and discovering the ocean with mommy,

She was such a great trooper on our trip (except for her 4-5 nightly feedings)! We thought about leaving her home, but I am so glad we took her with us.
The boys loved playing in the sand,

and being buried in the sand.

Brandon's highlights: Star Tours, the Jedi Show, Matterhorn, and Splash Mountain, and talking to random people in line.
My highlights: spending time with just US, laughing with Brandon, seeing the boys so smiley (with some grumpiness in-between), and getting several big random hugs from Coleman because he was so happy! I can't wait to go back again in a few years!

Shhhh....

2009-10-07T13:59:00.001-07:00

...don't tell, it's a surprise! We are headed to this magical place tonight!

Family

2009-10-04T20:29:00.001-07:00

I really enjoyed listening to General Conference today. Just feeling very grateful for my forever family. I am so lucky.

Breaking News

2009-10-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

THEY FIT!!......My pants that is. Not my size 8 pants I bought at Deseret Industries a few months ago. But my cute brown, once baggy, size 6 pre-pregnancy pants! The pants that came only mid-thigh a few months ago. The pants I have tried on weekly for the past 4 months.

I tried them on in the morning like always, only thinking that they would have to be placed back on that big stack, high up in my closet. But, my usual 'UGH!' was replaced by a falsetto 'Hallelujahhhhhhhhhhhhh!' I could pull them all the way up and zip AND button them.

Unfortunately Brandon wasn't there to share in my excitement, but Coleman ran into my room to see what all the noise was about. I yelled, "they fit!". And Coleman said, "they fit...they aren't tiny anymore?" "NO, they aren't tiny anymore", I said. "YEAHHHHH", he yelled and gave me a big hug. That was followed by some singing and jumping up and down. Then my other boys came in the room. When I told them about my pants, they gave me a weird look, a half smile, and left. I guess with all the excitement they were hoping to find something more exciting. But, I was excited!

Yes, they fit, they finally fit! Okay, so maybe they were a little snug, and I wasn't certain I was going to be able to sit down in them without busting a seam or two, or popping off a button. But, as the day wore on they got looser, just like any other pants you wear. But, I sat down to eat lunch, I sat down for the 1-1/2 long movie in the movie theater, and I sat down for dinner. And they held up as loaded and unloaded the washer and dryer all day long. All was well.

Until the end of night, when I sat down on the floor to fold my heaping pile of laundry. I sat and heard a 'rip'. Oh no, I thought, there goes my button. I looked and sure enough my button was holding on to tiny threads. The rest had been torn. They had been holding on for dear life all day long. Hopefully I can fix the the pants. But, I don't care what anybody says, they still fit!

Mr. Sensitive

2009-09-29T08:07:00.000-07:00

Canyon is our sensitive guy. He is our homebody, our snuggler and our worrier. He is always worried about everybody. He is also pretty darn funny and he LOVES to laugh. He is our sweetie!

Lately our Mr. Sensitive has been having a hard time getting used to being gone all day long for first grade. It can be so hard sending your kids off to school when you know how sad and lonely they feel there at times. But, you have to do it and they put on a brave face because they know they have to do it too.

The first week of school Canyon said he cried two or three times a day, but he always came home happy. It is was difficult for me to pinpoint the exact cause because he has a hard time talking when he gets emotional (which I can totally relate to).

I laid down by him in the dark of his room one night that first week of school and tried to get more details. I asked him what makes him cry at school, and what he's thinking about when he starts to cry. He then started to cry just thinking about crying. He said, " I miss you, and I miss Paige". "And I didn't have anybody to play with at lunch recess." I told him that I missed him too, but that I was happy he was able to go to school to learn so many new things. I asked him if there was anybody in his class that he thought might be really fun to play with. He named a few boys. I told him to ask those boys before recess if they wanted to play with him. That way he was sure to have someone to play with. That cheered him up a bit. We also went over some techniques with him that usually help him when he starts to cry. Like counting to five, taking deep breaths and telling himself that he will be okay. We talked for a little while about other things and I kissed him goodnight.

Sunday, the night before the beginning of the second week of school we were at Grandma Nanette's house. He started to cry and told me he wanted to go home. He said he didn't want to leave me and go to school. He then asked me through his tears how to spell the word 'played'. He was nervous about not being able to spell the word right in his school journal. He was so stressed! I told him that he just needed to write the word the way he thought it sounded and it didn't matter if it was exactly right. He wanted me to write it down on a little note for him so he could look at it at school. I told him I would.

The next morning he cried and cried and hugged and hugged me. He didn't want to leave. I wrote my cell phone number down on a post it note (and the word 'played') and told him to put it in his pocket. I told him that he could call me anytime he felt sad. Nash said "and you can come find me at school if you feel sad because that's what big brothers are for". What a nice brother! That made him feel a little better, but I still had to send him off to school crying. And I cried when he left.

When he came home from school he had a big smile on his face. He said "Mom, I didn't cry today, I just took deep breaths and counted to five and calmed myself down!" "And I looked at the number in my pocket and that made me feel better!" I was so glad!

The rest of the week he did the same thing everyday. Left crying, with a note in his pocket, and calmed himself down when he felt sad, and had no tears at school. Progress.

So now he has to have the note in his pocket and if it is not there when carpool honks their horn he gets a little stressed, but we always make sure he has it. He also likes to have home lunch everyday. I think he just likes that little piece of home to take with him.

One morning when I drove the kids to school he ran out the door and when he was half-way to the school I realized he had forgotten his note. Well, I thought, maybe he doesn't need it anymore. Then I saw him turn around and run toward me. He had a look of utter despair on his face and big tears were streaming down his cheeks. He couldn't even mutter the words, "I forgot my note". I wrote cell number on a piece of paper and gave him a big hug. He stood there for a few minutes to calm down a bit. I said, "hey buddy, you are going to be alright once you get in there and start doing fun things". He put on his brave face once again and ran for the school. And I cried again. I miss him too. These are the moments I love to be a mom. To be able to help, to comfort and to give courage to my little guys.

We love Canyon's sensitive side, we just need to help him deal with his emotions a little better sometimes. He will learn as he grows, and he has been doing pretty well- All this last week he went to school with the note and no tears. We love this little guy!

Sitting

2009-09-28T08:31:00.000-07:00

Now that Paige is sitting pretty good it is so much easier to take pictures of her. So you are just going to have to bear with me, because there are going to be a lot more of her in the next little while. She not old enough yet complain (like the other kids), or run away when I practice my photography! And who can resist taking pictures of this cutie?!

Paige updates for 3, 4 and 5 months

2009-09-24T10:07:00.000-07:00

More updates on Paige and pictures for three, four and five months. Mostly so I have it all recorded when I go to do her scrapbook. (Whenever that may be)

Month Three:

More smiley and giggly
Grabbing things pretty well
Another trip to St. George/took a splash in the pool.
Loves to curl toes together
Loves her hand on her head, rubs it sometimes when she goes to sleep.
Holds hands together straight out in front of herself.

Month Four:

14 lbs. 15 oz., 26 inches long
Lava Hot Springs trip
Loves talking, cooing and laughing to people.
Sits up for about 5 seconds by herself
Boys love to hold her, and Nash carries her around at times.
Loves splashing around in the tub.
Loves splashing around in the Grandma Nanette's pool.
Trying rice cereal and baby food.
Likes to be layed down with binki and stuffed animal for nap time.
Fussy time at night from about 10:00pm-11:00pm
Tried rice cereal for the first time (only eating it about once a week), not sure you like it.
Holds hands together a lot and likes to keep her feet together as well. (Hard to explain).
Doesn't like to be in her carseat, cries quite a bit in the car.

Month Five:

Sitting up by herself but gets tired after a few minutes.
Perfected rolling over, but still doesn't do it that much.
Says "Ba, ba, ba, ba, ba" and "Ma, ma, ma, ma, ma".
Talking loudly (especially in the car).
Starting to like her car seat a little more.
LOVES to laugh and giggle at Dad and Mom and her brothers.
Puts her finger on her chin when she says "ba, ba, ba".
Moves her mouth around like a guppie (it's so adorable).
Loves to rub her face into mine and eat my chin or cheek.
Rolls her feet when sitting in the bumbo.
Loves to hold the hair on the back of my head when held.
Camping Trip to Granite flats and Timpanogas Cave, she was a trooper.
Happy, happy, smiley baby.
She moves her whole body and squeals when she gets really excited.
LOVES to get her diaper changed, she thinks it is so funny.
Still getting up 1-2 times during the night.
Has mastered and likes eating rice cereal and also tried a variety of fruits and veggies.
Likes playing with her toys and shaking them to listen to the noises they make.
Likes to eat small pieces of bread when we eat dinner.
Likes to smile at new people she meets.

We love our Paigey girl!!

Jammin'

2009-09-15T13:21:00.001-07:00

There is nothing better on a roll or a slice of bread than homemade freezer jam. I haven't made freezer jam for the past two years and I have forgotten how much I LOVE it. My sister-in-law invited me over on Sunday night to make some with her extra peaches. It was so yummy that I went out the next day and bought some more peaches, and raspberries and blackberries. After another evening of making jam I now have the following jams:

Now it's time to get those rolls ready for tonight! YUM!

Daddy's little girl

2009-09-08T13:12:00.001-07:00

Brandon has definitely been enjoying having a little girl around the house. I love watching him with her, he is such a good dad. Sometimes when I see them together I can't help but laugh because she looks so much like him! She's so lucky to get him as her daddy, he loves her so much.

Mr. Independent

2009-09-03T15:23:00.001-07:00

Coleman is known around here for being very contrary and very independent. I know that he is three and that's what comes with 3, but I know Coleman is more independent than most, and he is not afraid of anything. Sometimes I think it is great that he likes to do things for himself, but most times it puts us in some interesting situations.

Like the time Brandon filled up our wheel barrel with water to find the hole in one of our van tires that kept going flat. After checking the tire, he forgot to dump out the water and left it in the backyard. Later, I went in the backyard and this is what I found-

Coleman had stripped down and climbed right in. I always wonder what my back door neighbors think, they never talk to us when we are outside. I am sure they think we are weird. I will just say that wasn't the first time Coleman had been out there naked.

Or last month when we were at Lava Hot Springs in the pool and Coleman asked me if he could go on the water slide as he pointed to it. "Sure, go get in line and I will catch you," I say. He swims off and when he exits the pool he takes off running, he passes the slide I expected him to go to and keeps running. I then realize he was pointing to the LARGE slide in the distance. So I hurry out of the pool, pass off Paige to my sister and take after him. (Can I tell you how fun it is to run in a swimsuit post baby?! But I did it anyway for my crazy man). As I get to the bottom of the towering stair case, I can see Coleman pushing and butting his way past everybody and nearing the top. I run faster up the staircase. It is too late. He jumps right on the slide (that he isn't even tall enough for) and goes down without waiting for the guy to tell him to go. Agh!!! So now I have to run back down the stairs (in my swimsuit) to meet him at the bottom. I meet him there and I just see him beaming!! "That was FUN mom!" I couldn't help but smile when I saw him despite my frustration.
This isn't the picture that time, but it is a slide he went on, just later that day. I just wanted you to see how happy those slides made him.

Or another time when we were at Dylan's Restaurant a few weeks ago eating dinner. I looked over and realized that Coleman (who was sitting right next to me three seconds ago) was gone. After checking several places, I decided to check the bathroom. There was Coleman sitting on the toilet in a one stall bathroom (luckily he had chosen the women's and hadn't locked the door). "Oh, hi Mom," he says. "What are you doing Coleman, I have been looking ALL over for you?" was my reply. "Gooooing Poooootty!" he said back with a tone insinuating I should have known.

Or the time a few weeks ago when I heard someone at my family reunion yell-"Whose kid is that?" I perked up with that question, knowing it was most likely one of mine doing something weird. I see Coleman standing 10 ft. from the picnic tables (where 30+ people were eating lunch) with his pants down, peeing on the grass. "Coleman honey, you can't pee out here where everybody can see you!" I quickly pull up his pants. He only replies with, "I just had to go potty mom." very matter- of-factly. Thankfully my Mom's side has a great sense of humor. My Aunt actually snapped a picture of him in the act. Wish I had it to post here.
(The more I am thinking about this, I don't know why a lot of these times usually involve going to the bathroom. He's just likes to make things easy I guess.)

But, my little Mr. Independent came into my room this morning with his room lighting smile and said, "I made my bed mom, all by myself!" I went to his room and this is what I found...

And he did a GREAT job too! I guess maybe there might be a few rewards instead of frustrations coming from his independence as he gets older. I sure hope so, he is wearing me out!

Anne

2009-08-27T14:19:00.001-07:00

My friend Anne passed away last Saturday after fighting a hard battle against cancer. This is a picture of her and her three lovely daughters. I was lucky to be able to get to know Anne for four of the years we lived in Cleveland. She made such an impression on me then and has left such an impression on me in recent months.

In Cleveland I remember watching her as a mother and thinking-I want to be a mother like her. I remember the first time I heard her bear her testimony in church and thinking how amazing she was and how much faith she had and how strong her testimony was. When ever I was with her I wanted to be a better person, a better mother and a better wife. For one who struggles to find the right words sometimes, the only way I can think of to describe Anne would be...PURE.

Being able to follow her blog this last year I continued to learn from her. At her funeral today someone had said of her that she handled her trials perfectly, she grew in faith instead of growing bitter. That person was right, Anne trusted in the Lord and she didn't ask 'Why', she asked 'What can I do?'. She really knew that Heavenly Father had, or still has a plan for her.

The spirit was so strong at the service today and I am renewed. I will never forget my experience there today. I am so grateful I was able to attend this service and to see what a strong little family Ward and Anne have. Even though Anne is no longer here on this earth, she is continuing to serve the Lord. And she is still an example to me. I am so grateful for being able to know Anne even if it was for a short time. I am so grateful for the gospel and for Eternal Families. I will hold on to my little angels a little tighter today and tomorrow.

I pray for Ward and the girls, but I know that because of their faith and trust in the Lord that they will make it through this trial. Thank you SO much Anne for your impact on me!

Fun at Grandma and Grandpa's pool!

2009-08-20T09:31:00.000-07:00

Summer is coming to an end and we are definitely going to miss a lot of things, especially swimming!! My kids LOVE the water! As you can see in these pictures. They can be crazy in the pool, especially Canyon. He is a dare devil. Just wanted to share these fun pictures from the other day.
Here's Canyon...

and Canyon again...

and Coleman...he could use a little more practice.

and Nash... attempting a back flip

and my little splasher Paige...

It is rare I am in a picture (I like to be behind the camera), so thought I would share these of me and my cuties!

The Idea Room

2009-07-27T15:11:00.000-07:00

My sister Amy started a blog a few months back called The Idea Room. She is super talented and wears me out with all she does while juggling 5 kids. On her blog she has many great tips and great ideas. She has had and will continue to have many giveaways. You should check it out!! Just click on the link below.

THE IDEA ROOM

Eight

2009-07-15T16:52:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe Nash is eight years old, his birthday was on July 1st. I just sent these invitations out for his baptism. We are so excited for his special day! He is such a fun boy. He has been enjoying cub scouts now that he is eight. I am a Wolf den leader and am lucky enough to be in there with him. He still loves to build things with his vastly growing lego collection, he is an excellent drawer and he is starting to really love reading. We love having you in our family Nash, can't wait for your baptism day!

2009-07-03T14:25:00.000-07:00

Blessing Dress

2009-06-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

Brandon's mom made a beautiful blessing dress for Paige. I had to take some pictures of her in it to show it off. Thank you SO much Nanette for all your hard work. I LOVE it!!

MoRE PaiGe!

2009-06-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how BIG Paige is getting. She is now 3 months old and is growing up WAY too fast! It seems to go faster and faster each time. Here are some pictures and some updated stats.

First Few Weeks:
She loves to sleep a lot and cuddle with M & D and her brothers.
She eats every two hours a day and about every 3-4 at night.
She is a content baby, but hates a getting a bath getting dressed after a bath.
Had her first trip to St. George and was so good.
Your first smile was to Mommy at 4 weeks old.

Month One:
More awake and alert and starting to focus her eyes better.
Still content
Started sleeping a 5-6 hour stretch at night.
Had her second trip to St. George and was once again a trooper.
Starting to love bath time, but still hates getting dressed after.
Holds hands up by chest tightly, it makes her feel secure.
Started cooing at about 5 weeks old.
Holds head up pretty well during tummy time, but not much control yet.
Plays with her tongue a lot and sticks it out.

Month Two:
12 lbs. 6 oz., 24" long
She's happy and smiley girl, it doesn't take much for her to give us a sweet smile.
She is most happy in the early morning and in the late evening.
Took her third trip, this time to Hawaii and she was so great.
Holding head and upper body up well with good control.
Loves to have her hands together all the time (She gets that from her mommy)
Starting to suck on her hands and fingers which really makes her drool.
Sitting up well in her Bumbo chair, but doesn't last very long in it.
Has great control of arms and legs.
Gets really excited when talked to and kicks her legs and swings her arms.
Getting pretty good at talking and trying different sounds.
Her first giggle was at 12 weeks old.
Still sleeping 5-6 hour stretches at night.
She can now hold her own weight on her legs.
Starting to cry when getting set down (She got spoiled in Hawaii).
She is a noisy eater and clicks her tongue constantly.
Blessing: by daddy on June 7th, 2009.

Paige -3 weeks old

2009-05-31T15:16:00.000-07:00

Lame-o Blog-o

2009-05-05T20:58:00.001-07:00

Sorry my blog has been so lame lately, but I guess I have some good excuses. Just wanted to let you know that it is still going to be lame for a few more weeks. We are busy with the school year coming to an end, soccer and Brandon, Paige and I are headed to Hawaii in two weeks. So check back later, cute pictures of Paige coming soon...

Paige Lynne Jones

2009-03-26T19:06:00.000-07:00

Well she is here! Here are the details mostly for my keeping. So if you don't want all the details you can skip and go to the pictures.

I had been having a ton of regular and strong Braxton Hicks contrations for weeks (just like I always do). The week before my due date I was dilated to 3 cm and about 50% effaced and really soft. I went to my appointment the next week on Wednesday. I was one day past due. I only had a handful of contractions that day and went to my appointment at 3:00pm. I was going for a VBAC this time and couldn't be induced so I was going to discuss my options. She checked me and I was dilated to 4 cm and 70% effaced. She stripped my membranes and since I was overdue I had to get an ultrasound and a Non-stress test. During all of these test I started to get some painful contractions. I drove back to my sister's house (she had my kids) at about 5:00pm. The contractions stayed steady and strong. Our families ate dinner together and Brandon met me there. I was starting to have to walk around to feel better with the contractions. We decided to go to the hospital.

We got to the hospital at 7:15pm. They checked me and I was almost 5 cm dilated and 80% effaced. I got my epidural (yeah!) at about 8:45pm. and I was so grateful because the contractions were close together and pretty strong. She broke my water at about 9:00pm. At 10:00 pm they were getting stronger and I had to push the epidural button a few more times. I told Brandon I wanted the Nurse to check me. She checked me at 10:15pm and I was fully dilated and she was right there. Yeah!!! I started pushing at 10:30 and she was born at 10:46pm.

8 pounds 4 ounces
22 inches long
Apgar: 7/9

She is our biggest baby by 2 lbs.!!! She is beautiful!! We love her so much and we were so happy the VBAC went smoothly and we had no complications.

Due Date

2009-03-24T14:50:00.000-07:00

Today is my due date and yes, I am still here. I hope she comes soon I am getting pretty sore and slow on my feet. I am trying to be patient. While I have been waiting for my sweet baby's arrival I have been working on her nursery. I am almost done. So I thought I would share some pictures.
We still need to put up crown molding. Brandon is going to build me a frame around a large mirror to go above the dresser. And I need to finish painting some details in the room. Anyway, here is what we have so far. Thanks to Hilary and Amy for all their help!!

38 weeks

2009-03-08T16:08:00.000-07:00

...well almost 38 weeks. I think this baby is going to come sooner than later. I am feeling SO ready to have her here and not be pregnant anymore. Time has really gone by quickly with this pregnancy though. I guess having three kids to take care of and a busy husband keeps me pretty distracted. Wish me luck on a smooth delivery, and lets pray I don't have to have another C-section this time around!!

We have a new family member...

2009-02-24T15:25:00.001-08:00

...his name is Alvin! He seems to be someone who doesn't always want to follow the rules because I constantly hear Coleman in an angry voice yelling "AAAllllvvviinnn" down the stairs. Alvin likes to come and ring the doorbell at dinner time. Coleman always answers the door for him and says, "how nice to see you, Alvin". Coleman then makes sure he always has somewhere to sit at the dinner table.

Alvin follows Coleman around where ever he goes and sometimes Coleman likes to boss him around, saying "no, don't do that", "come on, let's go downstairs", or "you need a TIME OUT!". Apparently he is a big talker in the car. He has many conversations with Coleman and sometimes I can't understand what the conversations are about, but they seem to enjoy each others company.

Sometimes at dinner it's Aunt Hilarys' or cousin Logans' turn to come and sit with us for dinner and I am not sure where Alvin has gone. Coleman doesn't seem to worried about him though. He is SO happy to have Hilary over or Logan to play with.

Just a few seconds ago Coleman yelled to Alvin, "come cut some play dough". In a high squeaky voice Alvin just answered "okay". Wow, sometimes it is really fun when Alvin speaks, he is usually pretty quiet!

I am not quite sure how I feel about our new family member, actually it kind of bothers me. He makes Coleman look and act a little strange at times, and frankly kind of crazy. I definitely don't encourage him to have Alvin around. The boys sure like having Alvin around, they think it is hilarious!! They will try anything to bring him back if he has been gone for a while. We will have to wait and see how long he sticks around. I don't know if I am ready for an even more crowded house!

Another hat

2009-02-03T10:24:00.000-08:00

I knit this hat for my boys. I think it turned out pretty cool. I will have to make another one, as soon as I finish making my baby blanket, crocheting a baby hat, painting the baby room, knitting some booties, knitting a baby hat... Why do I do this to myself?

Honduras

2009-01-28T12:09:00.000-08:00

Brandon went to Honduras with a dental/medical team a few weeks ago. This is the second time he has gone there with this group and he has really enjoyed helping the people in that area. The team stays at a orphanage in a city near Tegucigalpa (I believe). Here are some of the kids at the orphanage who got attached to Brandon. He always seems to be a magnet for kids-they love him!

Each day the team would take a bus to different villages in the mountains. Brandon said the people were so appreciative for everything. One village even had balloons, and a sign that said "Welcome", and laid down grass for them to walk on when they arrived. Hundreds of people would stand in line all day to get medical or dental care, and several would walk many miles.

The staff sets up outside somewhere. The dentists mostly just pull teeth out. After just two brigades (the second day) they had pulled over 250 teeth. Wow! Here are some pictures of the people lined up for care.

Here is Brandon with Father Mike, the leader of the team.

Here he is with the two other dentists on the team

I will post some pictures that some other people took from the trip of Brandon in action when they become available. He really did have a great time. But, he was SO ready to get back to our country by the end of the trip. He brought the kids home some Honduras soccer uniforms and me a nice decorative bowl, and our baby girl a cute dress and sandals!! Thanks dad for being such a great example of service and always working so hard. We are so glad to have you back home, we MISSED you!!

Baby Name

2009-01-17T13:00:00.000-08:00

So, as you all know we like names that are a little different. We are trying to agree on a name for our baby girl and are having a hard time. I tend to like the boy names for girls and Brandon is seeming to like the more traditional names this time around.

I am going to list some that each of us like, and if you want, you can tell me which one or two are your favorites. Or you can tell me don't like any of them, but if you do that you have to give me some other suggestions. That would be so helpful! And, hopefully after all this work this baby really will be a girl. It is still a little hard for me to believe. I have another ultrasound next week to see if my placenta has moved up-so I will have them double check- and then maybe I will stop worrying about it. Here are the names:

1. Hadley
2. Peyton
3. Emerson
4. Ajay
5. Paige
6. Ember
7. Laney
8. Avery
9. Jade
10. Tate
11. McKinnley
12. Corie
13. Summer
14. Reagan

THANK YOU!

Help, please!

2009-01-12T11:16:00.001-08:00

I am in need of a new infant car seat and stroller combo. Does anyone have any suggestions? I of coarse want one that is safe, but don't really want to pay top dollar. I am considering Britax because I know that they have the highest safety ratings, but they are a bit pricey for the stroller and car seat combo. Is Chicco good? Are there some cheaper car seats that still have good safety ratings? I have been researching online, but there are too many to pick from.

I am also looking for a baby swing that is nice, not too expensive, quiet and one that isn't ginormous. Has anyone found one they really like?

And in the next 6-8 months I need to get a new high chair as well. I would like a wooden one. Has anyone tried any wooden ones. I like the look of the Eddie Bauer one that Target carries, but it seems a little pricey and the reviews all say that it is hard to clean and that the paint chips easily.

Any suggestions would be great, I haven't looked into this stuff for over seven years, so I am feeling a little overwhelmed!

28.5 weeks

2009-01-03T09:29:00.000-08:00

I decided it was time to take a few snap shots of me, because I haven't taken any yet for this pregnancy. Coleman actually was my helper and pushed the button on this shot- not too bad for a 3 year old. I am almost 29 weeks now and time is passing quickly. I am getting so excited to see my baby girl!

2008-12-22T09:48:00.001-08:00

We are LOVING the snow!!

2008-12-18T12:34:00.000-08:00

Pregnancy and Exercise

2008-12-09T09:39:00.000-08:00

I am trying to be better at staying fit this pregnancy. My first two pregnancies, I didn't really exercise and only gained about 25 lbs. with each one. I tend to loose weight quickly when I nurse and got too skinny after nursing both of them for about 5 months. So with Coleman I tried to eat ice cream with peanut butter every night to gain extra weight to see if I could nurse longer with him. I definitely gained the weight, somewhere around 40 lbs., but still was only able to nurse about 6 months for different reasons. Anyway, I was wide hipped and my body was weird, it looked like it belonged to someone else. So this time I am trying to stay fit and just nurse as long as I can.

I have found a pregnancy workout video that I really like. Since a lot of you out there are expecting I thought I would recommend it. It is called The Perfect Pregnancy workout. It looks low budget on the cover, but it is by far the best one of the four I have tried.

I also like the Pilates Pregnancy workout, although the lady is weird and talks WAY too much!! It focuses a lot on the core.

Does anybody have an aerobic pregnancy video they would recommend?

Coleman turned 3!!

2008-12-01T12:32:00.000-08:00

Coleman had his third birthday on the 29th. We love this little guy!! He has SO much personality, he is so fun and loves to do new things. We love you buddy and are grateful to have you in our family. Happy Birthday!

HaPpY ThAnkSgIviNg!

2008-11-25T09:31:00.000-08:00

I tried the recipe for these cake pops found here. They may look great, but the inside of mine turned out all soggy and mushy. I should know by now that I am one who needs to practice things like this over and over to get it right. And I should have started with something a little more simple because they took almost all day long to make. I was planning to give them to all the people in my family (adults included), but now I think I will give them to just the kids. Well actually, the more I think about it, they might just end up in the trash. I am looking forward for my next attempt!

Hope you all have a great and safe holiday!!

New Orleans

2008-11-24T11:41:00.000-08:00

My boys and I flew to New Orleans last week to go and visit the Liddles, our good friends who lived by us in Cleveland (most of you know who they are). The boys loved seeing their old friends again that they used to hang out with a ton, and it was so great to hang out and laugh with Kristel again!
We did a ton of fun things. We took the kids to an awesome Aquarium, and saw the Mississippi River.

We went to a park and fed the crazy hilarious ducks, and the mouse beavers, which were disgusting and looked like huge rats swimming in the pond. The kids loved chasing the wild chickens and roosters. It was so weird to me that they just run wild all over the place. It was pretty funny- Ummmm, Hmmm (that's for you Kristel).

We also searched the swamp lands for alligators and spotted a few, which was surprising because it was close to hibernation season. The kids thought that was great. I thought I got a picture of them, but apparently I didn't.

We also went and played along a lake shore which was so nice and the weather was gorgeous even though we had clouds most of the time. We were able to have GNO with Amy Norby and went to see 'The Secret Life of Bees'. It was fun to eat the food out there, and believe me we ate a lot!! It was also so great to see the kids just pick up where they left off. Coleman and Kate played pretty good together as well.

Thanks Kristel and Justin for being such great hosts! It was so fun to see where you have been living the last year and a half.

Just to let you know...

2008-11-05T19:22:00.000-08:00

...things are going to change around here!

We couldn't be more excited!!!! Everything is normal and the baby looks healthy.

Considering going private

2008-11-04T07:52:00.000-08:00

I have been worrying a lot more and thinking a lot more about going private with my blog. It's too bad there are such weirdos out there. It does make me a little sad, because it drives me CRAZY when someone looks at my blog and I go to look at theirs and it says 'this blog is open to invited readers only'. So, if you would still like to view my blog leave me your email address and I will invite you, and if you think I would like your blog you can invite me too!

Just to clarify- no I am not getting weird comments. I just have been nervous about plastering my kids all over the web, but like I said, I am still thinking about it. Plus, I don't want people stealing pictures off of my website. I don't know what to do, I love finding new fun blogs all the time. What do you guys think?

Happy Halloween!!

2008-10-30T09:35:00.000-07:00

Tagged!

2008-10-28T21:39:00.000-07:00

My sister Amy tagged me about a week ago and she will be glad I am finally finishing this post. So here it goes:

1. If you know me well, you know I have really long fingers. Well, I guess you couldn't miss them even if you didn't know me, but anyway, ever since I was little I have loved finding my "comfy spots" for them. I can't really explain the different positions I put them in, so if you are that curious you can ask me what they are and I will show you. But, once my hands are in that comfy spot I don't want to move them. 'No, I can't grab that remote or change the channel on the radio, or write down that message for you-I don't want to move my fingers'. If it is something easy that I can do and still be able to keep my hands in that position, then fine I will do it for you. Weird I know, but it relaxes me.

2. Sometimes when I drive I have to try REALLY hard to not think about what could happen if I accidentally yanked the steering wheel to the right and made us all fall off the cliff to our death. Or accidentallly opened the car door and leaped to my own death. If I think about it too much I feel like I have to really have to stop myself from doing it. Scary, huh! Hopefully you won't worry too much when you get a ride with me (ha, ha). I haven't done it yet!

3. I worry about death WAY too much. It has gotten a little better since I taught a Relief Society lesson on death a few years ago. But, when I start to worry about it I can't stop thinking about it, and I usually play the whole scenerio out in my head. The person (usually my husband or one of my children) dies, and I think about how I would feel, what the funeral would be like, what life would be like without them, the regrets I would have, etc... I usually cry myself to sleep when I get in these moods, or I will wake up from a dream and cry and cry and cry until I fall back asleep in my hubby's arms. Brandon hates when I worry about it so much, it usually stresses him out, so I try to just keep it to myself (hopefully he doesn't read this, he doesn't know that). But, like I said it has gotten better in the last few years.

4. I secretly like R&B music (when it is clean). I know, that is so embarassing! I like Chris Brown-but, it does drive me crazy when he sings like he has never been taught proper English. Not that I am any expert in that area, but can't you say "Forever" instead of "Foreva"? I also like Usher and Justin Timberlake. Moving on...

5. Certain things belong in certain places in my house. 'No honey, your keys, wallet, and phone don't go right on the island in the kitchen, they go over on the table in the tray, in the corner.' Infact, I go crazy if anything is out on the kitchen counters when we are not preparing a meal or eating. Not that my house is clean all the time, because it can't be with three young boys, but it just feels better when things are in their place. Nash is starting to like things in their place as well. When the house is extra tidy and everything is in place, he will come home from school and say 'Oh mom, good job, I love when the house is SO clean'. But that doesn't mean that he keeps everything clean or puts all his things away either.

6. I really hate putting laundry away. I don't mind doing the laundry or folding it, but it might sit folded in the laundry room for a few days. I don't know why, I just don't like doing it. And it does drive me crazy that it is not put away where it is supposed to be. I have to talk myself into doing it, or plan it in part of my day.

7. I can't really think of anything else that is weird or random right now. Maybe my sisters could add this last one if they can think of anything.

I tag: Mandy, Hilary, Kristel, Andrea, Jen I., Krista, and Melissa K.-if they reallly want to do it!!!

The N Twins

2008-10-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

I had fun following these two cuties around a few days ago. I love taking pictures of two-year olds (when they are not mine). It usually doesn't take much to make them smile and have fun. They did great for this 1 hour photo shoot. Here is your sneak peak A.

I am having some problems with my pictures being washed out and having a blueish tone on the computer even though they usually print out fine. Will you let me know if they look washed out. I am curious to know what you are all seeing so I can try to fix the problem. Thanks.

A NEW (and maybe improved)...

2008-10-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

... Anthony Michael Hall?!

Remember that great movie "Sixteen Candles"? Although I am not sure I should recommend it, it is still one of my favorite all time movies. Nash is sure a lot cuter than Anthony Michael Hall and definitely has a bit more style, but I sure can't help thinking about the dance scene in that movie when I see this:

"Whooo, whoo, whoo, whoo, very Hot, very Hot".

Just in case you haven't seen the movie -thanks to my sister Amy, here is a short clip. Too bad it doesn't include my favorite dance moves. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpocxjPU2oc

or this...(I think this dance is mostly inspired by "Happy Feet".) What a fun kid Nash is!

****Sorry these are so long, I couldn't shorten the clip on my program for some reason.

The "B" Family

2008-10-19T17:03:00.000-07:00

I took pictures for my friend/neighbor and her cute family. Here is a sneak peek, just a handful of several pictures. Hope you like them!

My Grandma Donna

2008-10-14T12:59:00.000-07:00

My Grandma Donna has passed away. We are going to miss her. Driving down to California for her first funeral service with my parents and sisters really gave us an opportunity to talk and remember all the great memories that we have of her. We have so many traditions that come from her and some great treasures, and some great stories. We love you Grandma and we will miss you, but are so excited for you to be in heaven with your family! She will be buried in Vernal, Utah and we will have another service there on Wednesday.

Mary Donna (Erickson) Weeks 1913 ~ 2008 Mary Donna (Erickson) Weeks died October 4, 2008, in Thousand Oaks, California of causes incident to age.She was born March 20, 1913, in Greenwich, Utah to Peter A. Erickson and Alversia Savage Erickson. She went to school and was raised in Vernal, Utah. She married William B. Weeks in the Salt Lake Temple on June 9, 1932, and they later divorced. She moved her family to Salt Lake City in 1952 and then to Bountiful, Utah. She is survived by her children, E. Nordell Weeks (Carol), Coy Phillips (Ben), and Susan Horton (Dennis), and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Sister-in-law, Lois Erickson, Gloria Erickson and brother-in-law Hal Thorpe also survive her. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Barbara Fay, in 1937, her granddaughter, Lynda, Grandsons, Marlo Horton and Sean Burbidge, siblings Merrill Erickson, Dennis Erickson, Bryce Erickson, Georgia Erickson, and Rubee Thorpe. This devoted and hardworking mother raised her three children by herself, usually working two jobs at once. She was employed briefly at Southeast Furniture. She then worked as an instructor at Darrell's Beauty College and Painter's Beauty College in Roy, Utah. She was also simultaneously self-employed in her own beauty salon at home. She was later employed at Little America and as a hostess at the Lion House, a job that she relished - greeting and meeting the guests. She was always dressed beautifully and in good taste, and was an incredibly gracious and elegant woman. As a mother, she provided only the best for her children and endeavored to overcome adversity. She was an excellent cook and her children always had homemade bread, pastry, and meals, and she loved to experiment in the kitchen. She was an excellent seamstress and she continued to learn new things. The last nine years she has resided in the Thousand Oaks Care Center. Her daughter and son-in-law being her caretakers with the loving support of her daughter and son. Funeral services were held in Thousand Oaks, California on October 10, 2008. A memorial service will held on Wed., October 15, 2008, at the Vernal Sixth Ward, 350 W. 100 N., at 1:30 p.m. She will be laid to rest in the Vernal Cemetery.

Picking Pumpkins

2008-10-14T11:52:00.000-07:00

I just got back from California on Sunday. My grandma passed away last week and her service was there in Thousand Oaks, near LA. (I will post more on that later). I didn't take any kids with me with was really nice, but I missed them. So Monday I was ready to go and do something fun, so for FHE we went and picked pumpkins and went to dinner after. I really do love spending time with my boys, they are all so different and all so fun. We had a great time.
Here is Canyon's pick,

Here is Nash's pick-I promise I don't tell this kid how to pose I just take the picture. He is in this stage right now where he thinks he is SO cool. He is such a character.

Coleman is sitting on his pick,

And of coarse another one of the willing subjects

Nap-time terror

2008-10-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

So off and on Coleman just won't take a nap no matter what I try and then by 5:00pm he is crying about everything and even more particular and stubborn about everything. But, the last few months he was back to taking one everyday again. Until Sunday came. So for three days now I have been battling him and he has been wining. AGGHHHH!

Here is how this afternoon went:

1:00pm- "Coleman it's time for nap buddy." His usual reply is "no, nap mommy!" But despite his refusal we go upstairs, and I lay down with him for a few minutes while he wiggles and wiggles and jabbers and jabbers. So I give him a kiss and a hug and leave the room. "If you get out of bed I will have to shut your door, so don't get out of bed okay buddy". "Okay mommy". I go down stairs to see what Canyon is doing.

1:15pm-I hear Coleman upstairs and he has gotten out of bed and I go upstairs again and shut his door. He cries and then the crying stops. The first time this happens at nap time, I shut the door for a few minutes and then open it and tell him one more time and then he usually stays in bed after that. If he gets out of bed again the door is shut for good. But this time he got out again and the door got shut for good. So he cries again and then the crying stops again. 'Oh good' I think 'he has gotten back in bed and will be asleep soon, just like usual'. Nope, when I peek in he has gotten books and toys out all over his bed and is jumping around the bed having the time of his life.

1:30pm- Get Canyon and Coleman and head to the car. I have too much to do today and tonight for him to not have a nap today. I am going to drive him around and MAKE him take a nap. So we start our drive which I have done with him before in desperate times. The drive usually only lasts 5-10 minutes.

2:15pm- Still driving...Coleman is jabbering about his cousin Logan and all the letters and the sounds they make, about his cousin Hayley, and saying "Stop driving Mom, go to sleep!", while Canyon and I don't say a word in the car. (Canyon wants to get back home just as much as I do). I am getting pretty frustrated at this point, mostly because I don't want him to win three days in a row!! So we head back home and I tell myself that I am going to win this battle today.

2:20pm- We are back home and I take Coleman straight up to his room. I lay down with him again for a few minutes while my sweet content Canyon waits quietly for me again downstairs. Coleman jabbers about taking turns with Logan (his cousin) and jabbers about things I can't understand. Sings his version of 'Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star', pretends his hand is a big Excavator and is dumping dirt, puts his feet on the wall, his feet in my belly, his feet in the air, and his feet on the head board. I fall asleep for a few minutes and wake up to something poking me in the face. When I open my eyes I can see that it is his finger and he starts laughing at me. So I tell him to lay down and to NOT get out of his bed. Surprisingly enough he stays there.

3:15pm- After several peaks and seeing that Coleman is staying in his bed, I take one final look. He is still awake. Man!!! I have so many things to do and I have wasted 2 hours. So I guess I will get Coleman out of bed and he will win this one for today. I get him and take him downstairs and put in a movie.

Wow! If you have read this far you must really be concerned about me. Am I crazy or what? I know he is learning what things to do to keep himself awake, but I know he still needs the nap. I don't like this stage. He is almost three and I am sure his time for taking naps is coming to an end. Hopefully tomorrow I will win the next battle, as for now the score is 3 to 0. Good job Coleman, you always know how to trick mommy and win!

Say Cheese

2008-09-28T19:18:00.001-07:00

Did a photo shoot with the kids tonight...this should give you an idea on how things went. Why is it so much easier to photograph other peoples kids?

Gettin' Crafty

2008-09-23T14:03:00.000-07:00

So now that I am on to my second trimester I have been feeling up to doing a few projects. My latest project were these pumpkins I saw here. I just finished them (well almost). They were pretty easy and fun to make. My mom and sisters made some as well. I have been so excited for the cooler weather to come so I have been knitting recently as well. I will post my knitting project when it is complete. Now I need to make some Christmas stockings. Does anyone have any cute patterns or ideas for Christmas stockings? I would love some ideas.

I love this time of year!!

By the way... thanks for all the nice comments on my last blog, and thanks for sending the girl vibes my way. We find out what we are having the beginning of November, so I will let you all know. Yeah!!

My Family: by Nash Jones

2008-09-13T09:24:00.000-07:00

March 24th, 2009!!!

Thanks Sarah for letting me use your cute idea!

Happy Birthday Brandon

2008-09-04T14:03:00.000-07:00

Brandon is 33 today! Happy Birthday Honey! Here are the many things we love about him:

He loves his boys and me SO much, and would do anything for us.
He is fun and funny and the kids love to do anything with him.
He is a hard worker and great provider.
When he sets his mind to something he won't quit until it is done, and will research and research to make sure it is the right thing for us and our family.
He is a great example to his kids in the church.
He can fix anything, and if he doesn't know how he will find out how.
He loves Land Cruisers.
He is a great Pediatric Dentist and is great with kids.
He loves to help others.

Nash said:
"I love him because he does a lot of things for me. He helps me build stuff and helps me make lego ships and stuff. That's it. I just love him a lot."

Canyon said:
"He's funny and I like him to play legos with me."

Coleman said:
Do you love daddy Coleman? "Yeah" (in his deep husky voice)

We love you Babe!!!

What we are up to...

2008-09-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

...potty training a stubborn two-year old and enjoying the last few warm days. This kid cracks me up!

Back to School

2008-08-25T13:49:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year when the kids are excited to go back to school. And I am so excited to get back into a regular schedule. We had a busy and fun summer, and it went so fast, but I am ready for the Fall.

The kids had their first day of school today. Nash is in 2nd Grade and Canyon started Kindergarten. They were both a little nervous and excited this morning, Nash even tried to fake a stomach ache and a sore throat, but it didn't last long. They were both too excited to put on their new backpacks. I find myself a little nervous as well. I have been driving by the school everyday and getting butterflies when I see it. I am not sure if I am nervous for my kids or just getting those feelings back from when I was a kid, probably both.

Coleman had to run and grab his backpack as well this morning and get in the pictures. He thinks he is such a big boy. I love that quirky kid. Hope your kids all had a good day as well.

Busy, tired and reading

2008-08-04T13:03:00.000-07:00

Brandon and I just got back for Youth Conference a few days ago. I am so exhausted!! It was great and the youth were wonderful, but I am so glad we don't have to invest anymore thinking or anymore time into it.
So, for now I am trying to get my house in order (after catching up on my sleep) and reading Breaking Dawn. Then, in a few days we are off to Lava Hot Springs again...So I will have to catch up on posts later. Here is a picture I took a few weeks ago of Coleman and his daddy who he loves SO much.

Boating

2008-07-22T19:13:00.000-07:00

Brandon's uncle and aunt took our family to Pine View to go boating last Friday. We all had a blast!! Nash especially loved the tube ride and kept telling us to go FASTER with his thumbs up gesture. Brandon and I even did the Wake board. Yeah, I know we look like dorks (we both need to get in shape) in the pictures, but hey we had fun. I forget how much fun it is being out on a boat in the warm sunshine, I LOVE it!! We ended the day by letting the kids play at the beach, they could have stayed there all night. Thanks again Todd and Kim and girls we had a great time.

More Twins

2008-07-21T06:54:00.000-07:00

Twins

2008-07-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

My friend Jen had twin boys and we did a little photoshoot the other day. It was great to be able to meet them, they are sure cute! I had a hard time telling them apart when editing the pictures. Let me know if I got both of them equally Jen, especially the ones with you in them. That is where I struggled the most. It was great to see you again. I added one of her son C. Hope you like them Jen.

I also took pictures for her friend Brooke who also had twin boys about the same time Jen did. Those to come soon.

The Huntley's

2008-07-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

These adorable kids belong to my sister Amy and her husband Vance. Aren't they a nice looking family!? I had to add a few extras of their youngest cause she is just too adorable!

Friends from Japan

2008-07-14T12:18:00.000-07:00

My brother went on a mission to Japan and baptized this man. He and his cute family came to visit my brother and his family. I took pictures for them. Thank you guys!! It was so nice to see you again. Hope you like them.

Missing You Guys

2008-07-09T08:56:00.001-07:00

As you all know the Whitemarshs' moved. It was sad for me to say good-bye to them. We are missing you guys!! Hope things are going well with you in Washington. He are some pictures of the kids playing together for the last time.

Lava Hot Springs

2008-07-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

We went to Lava Hot Springs with Brandon's family in June (there are going to be quite a few pictures for the benefit of my family). The boys were so excited to go and use our camping trailer for the first time since we got it. Here she is-she isn't new, that's for sure, but it was so much nicer than sleeping in a tent!

We stayed at Cottonwood Campground right along the river, and there was cotton-EVERYWHERE!! It snowed cotton the entire time we were there. Luckily nobody had any allergies.

The kids loved playing on the play ground right by our campsite.

We went to the BIG local swimming pool. Which was a ton of fun, they have really high diving boards and water slides. We also got square ice-cream cones. Soaked in the Hot Springs-which were steaming HOT. We hiked around a little bit with the kids while the boys went golfing. And we put pennies on the railroad tracks...

And found railroad spikes...which Justin was pretty excited about as you can see.

And went fishing...

Here is the bunch!

Here are my boys on Father's Day! They love their daddy SO much!!

At the end we all presented a little gift for Grandpa Mike for Father's Day-an apron we all personalized and decorated with memories from our 2008 trip! Thanks again Nanette and Mike we had such a great time-our kids will remember that trip forever, just as your kids do. Let's do it again next year!!

Happy Birthday Nash!

2008-07-01T14:18:00.000-07:00

Nash turns 7 today. Happy Birthday buddy! We love having you in our family. Thanks for being such a good boy and a great brother to Canyon and Coleman. Here are some things we love about Nash.

He is a planner, he has a plan for each day, which usually differs with mine, but we are grateful he seems to think ahead and plan things out.

He is creative-loves building with legos, set up obstacle coarses outside or draw.

He is athletic and adventurous. He loves being outside playing basketball, soccer, baseball, bad-mitten, or going for a hike,
walk, or bike ride.

He easily makes friends and loves to be with them.

He is funny and has a big personality, which you will surely see if you know him well.

He is always kind and usually puts others before himself when someone is in need or sad. He loves to show affection for others and has such a big heart.

We LOVE YOU Nash!!

Liddles Photo Shoot

2008-06-22T13:24:00.000-07:00

We did this photo shoot in about 10 minutes because that was all the time we had, and it was freezing outside. But, I feel like we got some cute pictures, here they are.

BBQ

2008-06-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

Our BBQ with Cleveland friends turned out great despite the freezing cold weather. We ended up all having to cram in my house, but it was great. We were able to see Walkers, Binghams, Larsons, Liddles, Whitemarshs', Slivkas, and Norbys. It was so fun to see everyone and catch up. It felt like old times. We cherish your friendships.

Friends from Cleveland

2008-06-16T10:05:00.000-07:00

Some of our friends from Cleveland, who now live in New Orleans, came to Utah and were able to stay with us for a few days. It was so great to see them again. We were close to a few families (The Liddles and Whitemarsh's) and all our kids were best buddies. It was so nice to have close friends when you are so far away from family.

My boys couldn't wait to see them, Nash was counting down the days of our vacation in St. George (which is very unusual) because he was so excited. Once the kids saw eachother, they took off from where they left off. It was fun to laugh with Kristel again-we sure have fun together. Now we just need to go visit them in New Orleans!

I was able to take some family pictures of them, those are coming soon.

Friends

2008-06-11T12:50:00.000-07:00

I was so lucky to have grown up with such great girl friends! Most of us have been friends since grade school and have been through A LOT together. I love all of them!! It has been great to be able to keep in better contact with them more recently. It seems like blogging and emailing are what really keep us connected. Several of us have lived out of state, so when people come to visit Utah we try to get together. Last Friday we met at Rocket Park and only a few of us were able to make it, but it really took me back to old times.
Here is a picture from our day at the park. I hadn't seen Steph for I bet almost 10 years...it was so great to see her. We missed the rest of you who couldn't make it. Krista, Melissa, LuAnn, Jen I., Jen W., Jen F., Steph, Amy, and Ali- I love you guys, thanks for being such great friends! See if you rememer these good times I have listed below:

Remember when we went to Rocket Park in 6th Grade at the end of the school year. We went into the girls bathroom and filled up water ballons and had a huge water fight with the boys?!

Remember when we walked to Krista's house for lunch the day of the"class sale" and picked up deer poop and a rotten apple (I believe) and we wrapped it in tin foil to sale. We tried to convince everyone that it was something so awesome and Allison A. bought it with most of her money?! Wow, that wasn't very nice was it.

Remember in Mrs. Mann's class having wet paper towel fights against Lawrence and his friends when she would leave the room? I seem to remember the "brewer Lawrence" always having to take the blame.

Remember our fun club house in the trees at Oak Hills Elementary where we would play at recess? Also, when we didn't want to go to recess cause it was cold we would hide in the bathrooms and stand on the toilets so we wouldn't be seen. Then we would all flush the toilets at the same time over and over?

Remember going to the roller skating rink in sixth grade with all our "boyfriends" and holding their hands as we skated? We had to hop the fence one time and I ripped my pants and was so mortified. I also remember having to cram in one car and I had to sit on Nate's lap and I was hoping he didn't feel how bony my butt was.

Remember when we used to run outside of the Jr. High building to go to Chemistry (our teacher was weirdo Mr. Dean) and we would try to trip eachother while running? I remember it well because Jen S. got me so good one day I face planted and all my books and papers went flying.

Remember when we all dressed up in those tight pants and took posed pictures of eachother? I still have those pictures, they are hilarious.

Remember when we all danced with Nick G. at some school dance! It was only a sweat shirt-geesh! (Let me know if you don't, that is a funny one)

Remember when we were in that toilet papering war with Wade and his friends? We got him back SO good with Miley and Hope. We put glue all over his driveway and honey all over his lawn and drapped his house in toilet paper. The cops drove by and I dove to the ground and was covered in honey, but they didn't catch us.

Remember throwing snowballs at cars at the bottom of the hill at Oak Hills and we were laughing our heads off. I think we only managed to hit one car between all of us. Pathetic.

Remember all the drama there was in High School with boys. I know I was WAY too boy crazy!

Remember hating to dance with Steve M. cause he would hold you so tight you could barely breathe? That was a little uncomfortable wasn't it?

Remember when we went exploring in those water tunnels under the church? That was freaky. We had to hoist eachother up over the fence at the end, and as we were holding up Steph, she peed on us cause she was laughing so hard. Or was that LuAnn?

Remember getting our pictures taken together at the house by Jen S's? Gotta love those pictures of my short shorts! I wish he would have told me that most of my thigh was hanging out.

Remember all the good times we had in Huntsville, or just going boating with just us girls and pulling Jen's boat? One time it was dark and we were driving up the canyon and the headlights made weird shadows on the mountains and would freak us all out. Everytime we would come around a bend we would all scream at the top of our lungs. Hilarious.

Remember when we were all packed in a car by Benj's house and some shouted something, can't remember what, but whoever was driving slammed on the brake as we were all screaming, we all got out of the car and looked under it? For some reason we thought we had ran over something, but we didn't. Maybe one of you could clarify that story. All I know is we couldn't stop laughing.

I know I could go on forever, but this is getting way too long. Let me know what else you guys remember. I love reliving those days. We had such great times together!

Summer getaway!

2008-06-08T19:37:00.000-07:00

The day after school we headed to St. George yet again. Brandon came down for a few days again, which was great. Of coarse we had a blast. And the weather was really nice! We swam, hiked, went to the Sand Dunes, and to Sand Hollow Lake. We also went to the St. George temple to look at the statues they have on display there which were created by Angela Johnson, you can see them at this address www.ajsculptures.com/#. They were breath taking and it was such a neat experience.
Here are a few, well okay, a lot of pictures from our trip. We are always ready to come home, the condo gets more and more crowded each year as we continue to multiply and replenish the earth. We had 4 adults and 11 kids. Wow! It gets a little noisy, but the kids were really good.

More spring

2008-05-28T20:29:00.000-07:00

Canyon got a few rockets for his birthday and a few weeks ago we set out to launch them. Of coarse I took pictures while Brandon got everything set up-the field was just too fun! I was too slow and didn't get a picture of the rocket blasting off, which I was bummed about, but we got some other fun ones.

Preschool Graduation

2008-05-23T10:31:00.000-07:00

Canyon has his preschool graduation party yesterday. He was so cute singing his little songs for his program. I forgot my camera and I didn't get pictures for the first half, but after a while I ran home and got it. After their program we had a picnic inside (cause it was raining), then outside the kids swung at the pig pinata. Canyon looks funny in a few of these pictures. It was just too bright for him to look at the camera he said. Oh-well.

Their teacher rented a big bouncy and they loved it of coarse. She got in there with them-she is such a spaz, she cracks me up. Canyon has really loved her. She was tackling all the kids and jumping around. It was hilarious.

This is Canyon's best buddy at school. He talks about her all the time. Isn't she a cutie? Apparently Canyon is quite the ladies man. I have had several of the moms and his teacher tell me that through out the year. Not quite sure what that means or if it is a good thing or a bad thing. I think he was so used to having so many girl friends (there were no boys his age) in Cleveland that he is just drawn to them more. I can't complain. I LOVE when he plays with girls, which doesn't happen as often anymore, there are lots of boys his age on my street. With girls around, my house goes from boys running around playing guns to kids quietly playing house. We need to have girls around more often!

Anyway Canyon loved preschool, and I feel like he learned a lot. Now we just have to do some more Kindergarten preparation this summer.

Spring brings many things

2008-05-16T09:19:00.000-07:00

The older my kids get the busier life gets. Spring this year has been SO busy. We have had many school activities because the school year is coming to an end. We have soccer or baseball for Nash or Canyon Tuesday-Saturday. Neighborhood kids are wandering the streets and running from house to house...one reason I love spring and the kids are having a blast, but some days we just have to lock our gate and front door and hide out in our house just to slow down a little bit. I feel like I am running from this game to that game, this practice to that practice, this kid's house to that kid's house.
Although we have been so busy with sports, I do LOVE having boys and being able to play soccer, baseball and basketball with them almost everyday. We have a lot of fun together. I think once they each find the sport they really love (which will hopefully be in a few years) we will just stick to one. But for now we will continue to run around crazy in the Springtime.
Despite all the craziness, we have really enjoyed various Spring activities. For FHE a few weeks ago we doodled with sidewalk chalk. The boys drew x-wing fighters and tie-fighters (star wars jets), and then we played bad-mitten in our back yard. The boys had a blast. It is so nice to just be together as our little family sometimes!

Sneak Peak

2008-05-10T12:40:00.000-07:00

I was able to take pictures of these adorable kids a few days ago. Thanks L, your kids were great! Here is a peak at some of their pictures. I thought they turned out great. I love taking pictures of girls because they tend to just pose themselves, and these two were naturals. I was able to get a few of the littlest, but he sure was a busy body. Hope you like them. Thanks again.

Some yummy new finds!!

2008-05-07T19:25:00.000-07:00

I just discovered some new organic and natural food products made by Wild Harvest. Apparently they just came out with them and they have just hit stores this month. I usually stroll down the cereal isle and wonder what same old thing I am going to buy. I have tried some healthier cereals that I like but I get tired of them and haven't LOVED them. Then I found this:

Wild Harvest's Wild Berry Crisp. So, so yummy, and natural!

Then I went back to the store and tried this:

Blueberry Flax. Equally yummy and natural. I have also bought several others that we have yet to try. So after going online to www.wildharvestorganic.com, I found they have over 150 products that are natural or organic. You should check it out. I have only seen them here at Albertson's, but you can see on their website where they are selling them. I think I am going to try these next:

And maybe these:

Canyon's Day

2008-05-05T21:29:00.000-07:00

Canyon ended up having a great birthday. We spent the day with cousins at the park on Friday (his birthday). On Saturday he had a birthday party. He wanted a Star Wars theme (of coarse). We had a Jedi training course, had pizza, opened presents and then had cake and ice-cream.

After his party we went to Lagoon for the first time this season...my parents got all of us season passes for Christmas and birthdays this year. We had a lot of fun and are so excited to be able to spend our summer there!

I let the boys run through the fountain. They had so much fun, but they were soaked afterward, and it was a little chilly. I stripped them down to their underwear for the ride home so they wouldn't be so cold. They sure got a kick out of riding in the car practically naked-they were so giggly. Then they had to hurry and run inside when we got home so all the neighbors wouldn't see them! They thought that was pretty funny. Boys!!
And, Canyon got a kitty for his birthday! We are not huge cat lovers and would pick a dog over a cat any day. But, we weren't up for all the work a dog takes. He really is a cute kitty. Canyon was so excited and is loving the responsibility. He was so excited that it was his job to feed the kitty and make sure he has water. He named him Tiger. Hopefully Tiger can survive Coleman!! I can't leave the cat alone with him. I have some funny stories, but I will save them for another post because this is WAY too long. Anyway, he had a great day!!

Happy Birthday Canyon!!

2008-05-02T11:01:00.001-07:00

Our sweet Canyon turns 5 today! He is such a good boy, we love having his little spirit in our home. Just thought we would share some of our favorite pictures of him.

Cookies and Kool-Aid

2008-04-29T16:07:00.000-07:00

My boys have been begging me for weeks to let them have a cookie and Kool-Aid stand. The weather was going to be nice, and I finally felt I had the time to help them. So last Friday we set up shop in front of our house. I baked chocolate chip cookies and Nash made the Kool-Aid. Each cookie and each cup of Kool-Aid was 25 cents. They had such a blast. They made $17.00, and they couldn't have been happier! It made me so excited for summer.

Which one?

2008-04-21T11:08:00.001-07:00

I am putting together a collage of B&W pictures for a picture frame I have, and just recently took these of Canyon. Which one do you like the best? I can't decide which way I like Canyon positioned. Thanks for your input.

Zachary part 2

2008-04-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

My nephew Zachary had his baby blessing last weekend. I was happy to be able to take some pictures of him in his blessing outfit for my sister. I posted pictures of him a few months ago which you might remember, and he is getting to be such a cute chunky guy. So, I just couldn't resist getting some pictures of his cute little baby chubbs.

My photography class

2008-04-16T07:53:00.000-07:00

I have been taking a photography class and I am loving it! Just thought I would share some random pictures I have been taking for various assignments.

Such a bummer!!

2008-04-10T20:44:00.001-07:00

So I had planned out my night:) Right after dinner give the kids haircuts, baths, have Nash do his homework, and then let the boys watch American Idol with me... then it's off to bed for them!

So kids were in bed by 8:15. Good, I have 45 minutes to take a hot bath-which is badly needed cause I still am feeling cruddy with this darn cold/sinus infection I have had for two weeks.

After my nice soak I go downstairs-Brandon is watching the Jazz game-good it is over in 1 minute. The Jazz sadly loose by 3 points. What an exciting last minute of a game!

So, now I am really excited cause now it is MY time to watch MY favorite show. But, guess what? I didn't realize that I wasn't looking at central time. The Office was on at 8:00, so I missed it!! Please let me know how funny it was and what happened. I am dying to know! Oh well, since Brandon is off playing B-ball, guess I will go upstairs get in bed and read myself to sleep. What a bummer!!

So excited for prime time tonight!

2008-04-10T11:59:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to watch The Office tonight! I am so excited that they are finally starting their new season again. Just didn't want anyone else to forget.

Tagged!

2008-04-08T08:47:00.000-07:00

So I was recently tagged. Here is goes:

ABC tag!

A. Attached or Single? Attached, 9 years in August.

B. Best Friends? Brandon, mom and sisters, and my friends.

C. Cake or Pie? Pie-especially my Grandmas apple pie which I love to make!

D. Day of Choice? Friday, who doesn't like the weekend?

E. Essential Item? My camera, I take it everywhere and take way too many pictures. I am the annoying person who is always getting a group together for a shot or saying "Look at me, look at me", or "smile". I drive my kids and Brandon crazy sometimes. But, I love it!

F. Favorite Color? Green

G. Greatest accomplishment? Having a family or finishing my Nursing Degree.

H. Hometown? Bountiful, UT

I. Indulgences? Chocolate or ice cream.

J. January or July? I LOVE the summer time. I can't get enough of the sunshine!

K. Kids? 3 silly boys

L. Life is incomplete without? My family around me.

M. Marriage date? August 16th, 1999

N. Number of siblings? Four (2 brothers, 2 sisters), I am the youngest.

O. Oranges or apples? Oranges-but my most favorite fruit are red seedless grapes.

P. Phobias or fears? One of my family members getting hurt or dying. Natural disasters (I worry about this WAY too much). Germs- I don't go anywhere without my hand sanitizer or my antibacterial wet-wipes.

Q. Quotes? " Life is what you make it"

R. Reason to smile? Being relaxed, somewhere fun and safe with my family around me.

S. Season? Still summer

T. Tag three friends? My two sisters who just started blogging-Amy and Tara, and Kristel. Have fun girls!

U. Unknown fact about me? Nothing. I give out WAY too much information! I have obsessive compulsive tendencies, but if you know me you already know that.

V. Very favorite store? Costco or Target

W. Worst habit? Eating too many sweets! I am married to a dentist and get lectures quite frequently (I am trying to be better).

X. X-ray or ultrasound? What a strange question. Guess they couldn't think of anything else for this letter. Ultrasound I guess.

Y. Your favorite food? Italian-The Olive Garden is my favorite restaurant. I always order the same thing-Chicken Parmesan.

Z. Zodiac? Pisces

Mr. Geocacher (a.k.a. Brandon)

2008-04-02T11:44:00.000-07:00

I am SO glad Brandon is starting to have some hobbies! Over the last 6 years with dental school, working two jobs, being Young Mens president and spending time with us, he never had time to himself. He is still busy, but I think he is really making sure he takes the time to find things he loves. His new love...Geocaching!

Geocaching is an outdoor treasure hunting game in which you use a GPS to hide and seek containers hidden by other participants. There are city caches and mountain cahces. The city caches are geared more towards kids and hidden containers usually contain small toys. The geocaches in the mountain are geared more toward men with some cooler treasures. Once you find the cache you are free to take your treasure, but then replace it with another treasure for the next seekers.

There are quite a few in Utah and we have found several close to our home. It is funny to think of all those places you have been and not realizing there are hidden treasures at your feet. We think it would be so fun to find all the caches hidden in Utah and maybe even hide one ourselves. Apparently there are a lot in Zions National Park. Why not add a treasure hunt to your beautiful hike in Zions? We are planning a trip there this summer sometime; if we can fit in with all the other places we want to explore.

The boys have been having fun with it, but not as much fun as Brandon! Here are some pictures of our latest hunt several weeks ago. Our niece Morgan came along and had a great time. Here they are deciding what direction to go by looking at the GPS (doing this has helped Nash to know where N,S,E and W are).

Getting closer...is it under here?

We found it!!

Hunting for another one...

Here it is!

And our last hunt for the day, we head to the pond by our house...

I think it is by this big tree!

We found it!! Here are the kids deciding what treasure they want to take with them.

We will keep you updated on our future treasure hunts-we know there are many more of them to come!

Sun, sun, sun...

2008-03-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

...that is all we saw and felt in St. George. Even though I was ready to go home and get back into my routine, I didn't want to say good-bye to the sun and 78 degree weather. We had such a great time there! We went hiking quite a bit in Snow Canyon. We hiked to this cave (I'm not sure of it's name). Here are some of the cousins sitting in a hole by the entrance of the cave.

Here is a picture of those red sandy rocks, but I liked it better in black and white.

And of coarse Coleman had to do everything by himself. After a few small tumbles and falling on a cactus, he finally figured out it is a lot easier hiking when holding a hand. He's so funny!

We went to the sand dunes twice because all the kids had so much fun there (as always). They loved running down the big hills, digging holes in the ground, and smothering ants and beetles with sand.

The rest of our time was spent at the pool or eating out. My two most favorite things!! Brandon thought about coming up, but decided not to, he would only be able to be there on Saturday and Sunday. We were missing him so we called him and he said he was bored at home just hanging out. We hung up the phone and about an hour later Brandon was at our door. We were SO happy to see him! What a great surprise.

And this morning...we woke up to snow on the ground and I have a cold. At least the snow has already melted and my cold will hopefully only last a few days.

Erika

2008-03-19T07:24:00.000-07:00

I had the priviledge to take pictures of this adorable baby, Erika! Isn't she sweet?! Her grandmother was visiting from Japan and I was able to get a few pictures of them together. Plus of coarse some with Mom. I was able to try a few new things this time, it was great! Thanks Chifumi. Let me know when you are ready for a family picture, I would be happy to take one. I enjoyed our time.

Miss Taylor

2008-03-13T15:15:00.001-07:00

I was able to take pictures of my niece the other day. Isn't she SO cute! She was so good for us. After a long time of shooting, we tried and tried to get her to fall asleep, but she wouldn't for a long time. She ended up being so tired. But, despite her being so tired, she couldn't stop smiling. Finally she fell asleep for a few minutes and we got a few of her sleeping. Just thought I would share the pictures (sorry there are so many, I just couldn't decide which ones to leave out). I am going to start blogging my "photo-shoots" on here, which may usually only consist of family. Hopefully you will find them enjoyable and not annoying. I love the picture of Taylor drooling, so cute!

(I have a Mac and the colors on the monitors are calibrated different, so those who have PC's the pictures are pretty bright and the colors aren't as brilliant. I will be working on a solution for that.)

Crazy Coleman!

2008-03-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

You have to love this kid! I get this look several times during the day...I was glad to have captured it. Coleman makes me laugh (and almost cry) everyday! He is so particular about everything.

Don't think about carrying him to his room after his bath-he wants to walk!

His food has to be just the right way in just the right place or he has a little tantrum, followed by a time-out on the stairs.

He does manage to use "please" and "thank-you" quite frequently, but if you try to give him something he doesn't like he will cry, fall to the floor and scream "NO THANK YOU!".

His (three) blankets have to be just right for bed time. His feet HAVE to be covered completely. Sometimes he likes the frog blanket first, then the animal blanket, and the turtle blanket on top. But sometimes is it the animal blanket first, then the frog blanket and last the turtle blanket. But, sometimes he likes just two blankets the frog blanket first etc... Anyway, you get the idea.

He loves to climb up and get snacks out of our cupboards. He is constantly in the fridge looking for food. I have to tie it shut-which of coarse leads to another tantrum.

If you do something he doesn't like (like sing in the car) he will yell "Stop it!". Wonder where he got that from?

He is not afraid to torture Canyon, and makes him cry at least once a day. He will take his toys and run and hide, hit him with a toy or push him off the seat and steal his food. (Canyon is too tender hearted to fight back, but he is learning to hold his own).

When he doesn't get his way in public he is very LOUD! I usually ignore the behavior or try to distract him, but I still get quite a few stares. I wish I could take him to the library, but he is just to loud. Now I prefer to go when Brandon is home and I can concentrate while I am there looking for books instead of chasing him around.

He usually goes around the house "acting" most of the day. He finds any toy and uses it as a gun, and points it at me while he give me the 'evil eye', and then makes shooting noises toward me. Lovely! I guess he learns that from his older brothers. He also loves to "act" like Buzz Light-year and yells "to infinite n beyond" while jumping off of the couch or a table.

I could go on and on....

But, despite his stubbornness, he is really quite a good kid. He really makes me smile most the time. He has such a cute personality and he is such a clown!! The boys and I laugh at all the silly things he does all day long.

I love when he gives me little kisses and little hugs and when he says "Love you" at night. I love that he will now snuggle with me after he takes a nap. I love that he says "sorry" all the time (even if it means he has done something he shouldn't). I love how he says "HI, I'M HERE" really loud when he enters a room to capture every ones attention. I love the look on his face when he is being ever so sweet. He loves people and doesn't hesitate to talk to anyone or say "hello". He is my little buddy! I love this little guy!

The Yellow Bee!!

2008-03-04T15:08:00.000-08:00

Brandon decided last month to get another remote control airplane (called The Yellow Bee). We had one a few years ago, took it out once and it crashed and burned. His friend here in Utah also has a Yellow Bee and has taught him a few tricks. They definitely came in handy. We have taken it out a few times, and that thing can fly! We all love it, especially the boys! It is pretty fun watching it take flight and trying to steer it. We have had a lot of laughs! Brandon is like a kid again with that in hand. It is fun to see him play with the boys, he is such a good dad. He always makes sure he does something fun with them, something they will remember forever. We are ready to go flyin' again!

Do you notice something missing from my smile?

2008-02-22T07:42:00.001-08:00

We knew it would happen eventually, but I still am NOT READY for Nash to loose his top front teeth. I really feel for this little guy!! Does he have the ever so monstrous bucky Weeks (my family side) teeth, or the nice, pretty and perfectly aligned Jones teeth? It is obvious what I hope he has. Unfortunately we can't escape genetics. Let me tell you, if you take Brandon's "bad" genes and my "bad" genes and put them together, you would have a real winner! Hopefully all our kids will be a mixture of our "good" genes. I know this sounds terrible to say, but it is something I worry about quite a bit. But, just know that I will LOVE them no matter what, and that goes with out saying.

We can see the teeth coming in his x-rays and they look big, but it is hard to tell. He will deal with whatever he has. I dealt with it, and still do. But, I am going to miss those perfect, cute little baby teeth. My boy is getting so old!! I can't believe it. So lets all pull together and say a little prayer that my baby has the Jones teeth!

Our Blog

Halloween 2010

Growing up...

My first Triathlon

7, 8, 9, 10 & 11 months

Tiger

Brandon's first love, and his new love

Our Valentines

Alibis for my Absence

Should I be worried?

My Home

Paige: 6 months update

Mr. Distracted

Recessionista Party

Happy Halloween

Poor Baby

California!

Shhhh....

Family

**Breaking News**

Mr. Sensitive

Sitting

Paige updates for 3, 4 and 5 months

Jammin'

Daddy's little girl

Mr. Independent

Anne

Fun at Grandma and Grandpa's pool!

The Idea Room

Eight

Blessing Dress

MoRE PaiGe!

Paige -3 weeks old

Lame-o Blog-o

Paige Lynne Jones

Due Date

38 weeks

We have a new family member...

Another hat

Honduras

Baby Name

Help, please!

28.5 weeks

We are LOVING the snow!!

Pregnancy and Exercise

Coleman turned 3!!

HaPpY ThAnkSgIviNg!

New Orleans

Just to let you know...

Considering going private

Happy Halloween!!

Tagged!

The N Twins

A NEW (and maybe improved)...

The "B" Family

My Grandma Donna

Picking Pumpkins

Nap-time terror

Say Cheese

Gettin' Crafty

My Family: by Nash Jones

Happy Birthday Brandon

What we are up to...

Back to School

Busy, tired and reading

Boating

More Twins

Twins

The Huntley's

Friends from Japan

Missing You Guys

Lava Hot Springs

Happy Birthday Nash!

Liddles Photo Shoot

BBQ

Friends from Cleveland

Friends

Summer getaway!

More spring

Preschool Graduation

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