Crouse House

Don't Carpe Diem

2012-01-18T14:28:00.000-08:00

I just read this article that my sister posted on facebook.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/glennon-melton/dont-carpe-diem_b_1206346.html

At first I was annoyed by it honestly, until I read it to the end. I see people get slammed for being optimistic in their blogs, and I even hesitate in my own to go too far negative, and too far positive sometimes. But honestly? Who is even reading this, and who cares. The point of writing my blog is for my children, and for them to remember their childhood.. the good, the bad, the hard times, the amazing times.

What I took from the message was this: There are two types of time, Chronos & Kairos. Kairos is used to highlight an extremely significant event in time, while chronos describes a span of time- waiting in line sort of time. Much of our time spent parenting would be classified as chronos. Motherhood is hard, frustrating, tedious, scary, annoying, dirty, thankless, and exhausting. BUT it's those tiny, brief moments of each day where you stop and take it all in for just a moment that make it worthwhile (Kairos). I have to remind myself each day, and really work at noticing the smallest things, and when I have these little moments, I am so thankful. This week I made mental notes each day when I had those "kairos" moments. And so... here they go.

-Jared had officially declared Ryann falling asleep in our bed a "no-no" and so I jokingly said, "Well I'm too heavy to get into her bed, aren't I?" "No," he said. So that night, after much whining and promising to be good if she could sleep in my bed, I told her I would be right back with my jammies on. She watched big eyed as I climbed up her little ladder and snuggled in next to her. She had the biggest smile on her face and she just softly said, "You're nice." I laughed as she tucked me in. She rested both hands gently under her soft cheek and closed her eyes... and I just stared and watched her closet light fall softly onto her face as her breathing got slower and deeper. Kairos.

-Changing two poopy diapers within 5 minutes of each other while the doorbell rings, and the baby grabs the poopy diaper, and the cell phone rings too. Chronos.

-As most mornings go, little Ry ended up in our bed, but this morning dad was in between us. She woke up and immediately cried out, "Where's mom?" I peeked over dad's chest and she sighed out a deep chuckle, "Oh hi mom!" I laid my head on Jared's chest to get a better view of her, as she snuggled up in the curve of Jared's arm to see me too and said, "Hold my's hand mom." So with cute daddy in the middle, we held hands across his chest and he kissed us both and smiled. Kairos.

-Shaking it to my music in the kitchen with my boys while they unknowingly happily do their chores. Kairos

Girls Weekend with my Sister

-Laughing at so many inside jokes that we nearly peed our pants. Kairos.

"I have a camera (sister)"

Bryan. Kairos.

Hot tubbing in our hotel room. Kairos.

Sitting in the jacuzzi with drunk teenagers. Chronos.

Getting some crazy make up done at Sephora. Kairos.

Spending much needed time together. Kairos.

Love you Jules.

-Sorting through mounds of paperwork, bills, and junk in my desk. Chronos.

-Finding two old talks written by Cole with his testimony written down. Kairos.

-Listening to my sons read a letter from their bestie who just moved away and their reaction. Kairos.

Lifetime friends who mean the world to us. Kairos.

Little sister's drama

Chronos.

Cole's words and his drawings. Jared's beard.

Kairos.

Ryann's lower pouty lip when she kisses.

Even when there is moist mac'n'cheese smothering her face.

Kairos.

I didn't realize I was prettiest when I was mad. There is some contradiction here in this little letter. LOL! Kairos!

Fingerprints

Now: Chronos

Later in life: Kairos

-Friends who stop to listen to me vent my frustrations, and validate me as a mother and friend. Kairos.

Friend who gave up her entire day to help me with my house, and brought me lunch. Kairos.

A husband who tells me several times a day he loves me, and tells me how beautiful I am. Kairos.

Lots of crying, tongues sticking out, spitting, and hitting

Chronos

And some days I need to be reminded just how neat my handwriting is.

Lots of teasing between siblings, crying, hitting, and whining

Chronos

Enjoying my first baby girl.

Absolute Kairos.

Reading Cole's letter as he tries to use descriptive language he is learning in school.

Very entertaining. Kairos.

Once again, we have good hand writing and we can cook! Kairos.

Celebrating 13 years of marriage to my best friend.

Kairos!

Beautiful, happy, and healthy kiddos. Kairos.

So yes, most of our time is spent in chronos and things get hard, and some days we feel like giving up. But when we stop to appreciate those little, precious moments, we DO want to go climb another Everest because the view is spectacular, and the journey is worth the while.

Moving on...

2012-01-01T14:15:00.000-08:00

I have really let the ball drop on taking real pictures with my camera. Whatever ends up on my phone is sadly it right now. New Years... nada!! We ordered pizza, cheered the new year in at about 10:00pm and lit some fireworks in the street, and watched Pirates of the Caribbean. My favorite part was snuggling with Ryann, and falling asleep on the couch! Happy New Year!

Cheers with Ruby Red Sierra Mist

Grandma's hot chocolate

Carolyn's sugar cookie recipe we made at Julie's

3D chalk

Pony rides after the movies Christmas Eve

One of my favorite chocolates... anniversary wish that came true

Ry at the park

Me and Jared on our anniversary. Happy 13th!!

Good-Bye

One of my dearest friends, Martha, moved to Thatcher this past week. I don't think a week went by in the past 11 years where we didn't see each other. I have literally watched her babies grow through the years, and our children adore each other. She has been my children's second mother. My friend Heather and I spent a few hours letting the kids play while Martha wrapped up loose ends at her house. The little ones covered the sidewalk in 3D chalk (so cool!!). Molly and Devon always had their driveway written with messages to my kids when we would do date swaps. There is too much to write about my friend Martha, and I could never do her justice with my words. In the afterlife when we don't need to use words, she can feel how much I adore and love her. I will miss you sooo much!!!

Mini Golf with Alli and Logan
I loved how Ryann didn't golf much, but she loved holding on to her pole and ball. She felt very important. We were losing balls left and right.

Sunbeams

Ahh, my little baby started sunbeams on Sunday. She held on to me, and wouldn't let me go. It didn't help that she didn't have a teacher there to make her feel secure. Thankfully my friend Nichela came, and took over, and she said Ry did great. I am mourning the chance to be able to continue teaching music to the little ones in primary. They are so fun, and so easily entertained. I will miss their darling little hugs, and smiley faces.

I'm so glad she has her bestie Ethyn with her, and her friend Jane.

Newport & Balboa

2011-12-23T20:38:00.000-08:00

I had been waiting a long time to get my little family to the beach. It was a freezing cold day, but we made the best of it. The kids had their little adventures, found souvenirs, a pet, and got plenty wet.

My little lifeguard Will

Sand dollar find

Daddy carrying Ry

Da boys

Will's little hermit crab Himry. He spent the night at the hotel with us.

It is my dream to shoot a family on the beach.

The boys watched the seagulls closely as they would swoop down for snacks. The second they dropped them, the boys would chase them. We barely missed a starfish.

Carter on an adventure across the rocks

More goodies dropped by seagulls

Seashells smothering the rocks

My sweet boys

I love-love-love pics of Ry and her daddy

Epic failure trying to keep clothes dry

Thank goodness we brought a few extra scrubs. Although we let Ry run around in her diaper for a while... got plenty of dirty looks.

Ry scaled that beach on all fours, and chased seagulls non-stop!!

Ry rarely looks at the camera... the old trick worked here.

"Don't look at me!"

The fam

Of course sister was caught in the wave that snuck up behind her.

I love that no matter where we go, my boys find adventure in anything.

So Will.

The perfect ending to our day. The boys saw dolphins swimming together as we walked down the pier.

The next morning we took a trip back to the beach to return our little hermit crab friend. We decided to take a jaunt out to Balboa Island to see what all the fuss was about. We splurged on a little salt water taffy, and a frozen chocolate covered banana. It was yummy!

I loved that the ferry was so cheap.

On the island there was a little row of shops that we browsed.

This sign rang true to me... minus the cold beer.

All in all, a fun day... and a new adventure.

Wrap up

2011-12-22T22:36:00.000-08:00

A few things that happened in the past 2 weeks:

The temple is moving along!! Wahoo!

I found sister some knee-highs that I have been DYING to find.

Ward Christmas Party: The Polar Express- beautifully done!

Primary Party- Donuts, juice, and stories (Carter & Ry snuggle, Teacher: Kristin Rogers)

Ry decided what she wanted for Christmas in the Target ad

Hosted playgroup: Made, and decorated cupcakes, pretend dinner (rainy day- so good)

Visit from the ice cream truck- bought some cotton candy

Ethyn & Ry play date = exhausted together

I loved those socks enough that they made it twice apparently! LOL

No they DIDN'T!!!

2011-12-22T21:10:00.000-08:00

I can just see the sharing time lesson, and the question is asked:

"Your mom has just finished doing the laundry and there are freshly cleaned towels, waiting to be folded and put away. You should:

A: Help her fold them, and put them away.

B: Let your mom do it herself

C: Pee on them.

DING, DING, DING, DING!!!

Sounds pretty simple. I literally left the house for 2 minutes to run Cole a few blocks away and they were in charge of watching their baby sister... in her room. I even started a fort that they could play in. Seriously? How hard is that? Yes, we had been putting away laundry together previously, but still. Well Carter and Will dared each other to see who could pee their pants. So they took my towels, laid them down in Ryann's room on her floor.... and peed on them.

I about lost it. I wanted to laugh, but I knew I had to get my point across...because this was Will's response to me, "You wash Ryann's all the time. Well I'm sorry, but we were just trying to have some fun." No remorse whatsoever.

So...

I went into my room, took the clothes that he had just put on hangers, and shook them all over my room. He looked at me disgustingly and said, "Why are you doing that?"

And I said, "Well I'm sorry. I was just trying to have some fun."

Point taken!

I then showed them how they just made a new batch of laundry for me, when I WAS done...

peed on laundry at that.

Jared comes home. I pull him aside to inform him of the incident.

BELLY LAUGHTER!!!!

and then...

"I better go get mad at them." LOL.

Disney Christmas Surprise!

2011-12-18T23:32:00.000-08:00

I think I drove Jared insane... trying to convince him to let me tell the kids earlier. "No!" he would say. "Ahhh!!" The excitement was too much for me and I had to tell somebody!

So... I told the one person who could keep it a secret. Ryann!! Oh, she did spill the beans several times, but her brothers laughed it off, since Molly and Devon had just been there and she had been asking to go. One day in the car she said, "We going to Dinny Lann!!" Will responded, "Yep," and went about his business. It got funnier and funnier as Jared and I would spill out our excitement to Ryann, knowing our secret was safe. But boy it felt good to tell her and get excited with her.

Our plan was to rent a car (due to our record of vehicle malfunctions). The night before, I went to the rental place, a bit nervous because all 4 kids were going to share the backseat of a small car, and it was going to be a very unpleasant 7 hour drive. I sheepishly offered a small prayer that somehow we would get a vehicle that would fit us all. Small prayer, but a huge answer and blessing... the guy offered me the mini van for very little over the price of the car. I wanted to kiss his feet!!

Since we were missing lots of school, we had the boys working their little tails off, trying to turn in projects, assignments... choking it up to.. "Hey, if you get this all done, you can just come home and play the rest of the week!" They were sold, and surprisingly they went along with it very well! Wednesday night I packed like crazy, while dad finished up his school work.

We made sure the tree was up and ready to go, since Santa would be visiting early!

We woke them up at 6:00AM. Dad told the boys that I had breakfast all ready downstairs. They drug their little legs down the stairs, whining, and complaining about how early it was. Of course, Carter had to go to the bathroom. So they saw the backpacks, the tree, and me (with no breakfast) and waited for Carter. Once he was out, he volunteered to read the letter from Santa. I think the boys tuned him out because once he read, "You're leaving right now," there was no response. LOL. It took some explaining, and then came the excitement!!

At least it's on video!

We spent weeks looking for cheap Disney paraphernalia. Ordering t-shirts from ebay, trinkets from Frys, and I scored Mickey and Minnie at Walgreens on black friday. I was so giddy. Total: $8.00 Wahoo!!!

Letter from Santa

I got the book "Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell #25" for the ride.They absolutely loved it! We listened the entire way there and back, and finished it an hour before we got home.

My cute hubby driving in 60+ mph winds. It got a bit hairy for a while and I was nervous about whether we would be going to Disneyland at all.

Found this cute pink and black minnie hat at Target for $7. LOVE IT!!
We arrived in Anaheim around 4:30pm and were a bit anxious, so we walked to downtown Disney and looked in the shops, and got all worked up for the morning!

One of our first rides! Dumbo, of course.

While me and Ry were in toon town, the boys found us just as Goofy decided to plop down on a bench. We all went RUNNING!

Dad and Ry on Dumbo Ride

I LOVED her face!!

Splash mountain line was next to nothing, so me and the boys went running!! Cole remembered where the camera was and so we made faces :)

Whew! This little chica wore her parents out!!!
Will was HILARIOUS!He held up every car behind him. His little leg couldn't push the pedal down hard enough to get it to continue going. He brought a little bit of Phoenix to the people of Disneyland.I kept turning around and could NEVER see the kid. He had a blast though. Once he caught up at the end, his face was all smiles.
We found one of Jared's best friends Travis in line at Pirates. We got to visit for a bit at their hotel, and the kids had a blast together. Wish we could have had more time together!

Again, I love her enough to get sick on the Merry-go-round!
The boys prepping me for Star Wars... I was the spy on the ride and was quite shocked to see my face appear on the screen. It was amusing... Definitely won't be riding that sucker again. It made me so nauseous!!
First day done at Disneyland. These guys were POOPED!!! So much walking, cold, and exhausted.
The next morning we thought we were late, but California Adventure hadn't even opened yet. We were the first ones on the Tower of Terror. We were escorted down the streets as merchants, wearing huge mickey hands, waved at us and played happy music as we strolled down the streets. It was pretty cool.
Bugs Land
It's tough to be a bug. Still scared everyone silly.
We had earned Disney Rewards through the year and it was fun to buy little treats, eat lunch in the park, and get the kids a little souvenir!

Tink's friends

On our 3rd day, Ryann and I spent time hunting down the princesses and characters. It was so worth it!! She was so shy, but she hasn't stopped talking about it!I totally did a screenshot of these off the disney website. How bad am I?? I didn't have my camera with me. Duh, what was I thinking?

Princess and the "fwog"

Stand in this line for 1.5 hours, but the end result was worthR-A-P-U-N-Z-E-L!!!!!

Tinkerbell was missing, but her fairy friends were fabulous!

The last night was AMAZING. After 3 days of being at Disneyland, we were ready! We found a great spot on a bench to watch the fireworks. It was freezing, but we waited the hour. I wanted my kids to not only see the fireworks, but the snow, and the amazing song they play, "I"m Dreaming of a White Christmas"
This trip was so worth it. It was WONDERFUL!!!

Phone Dump

2011-12-18T22:02:00.000-08:00

-So far this year we have avoided the flu... but we've had our share of coughing, and countless breathing treatments. I love the picture of Ryann snuggling up to Will because she knows he is having a hard time breathing.

-Grandpa Bowler visited one day at Grandma Crouse's house and took each kid for a ride on his scooter up and down the street. It was so darling.

-One day after school I decided to take Ry to the park with the boys and on my way I saw a little boy trying to fly his kite on the street. I noticed how windy it was and so we ran back home and grabbed our dusty old kids. It was so much fun and the kids from the park all joined us, including the boy who was desperately trying to fly his. We got his up really high.. and he was happy. Ryann's muddy hands afterward.

-Girls night in Scottsdale. Fun huge game of scrabble at Anthropology.

-I love to tease Carter every time we walk into Target. He gets a good wipe down.

-My sleepy girl.

-And last but not least, hilarious halloween candy me and Carolyn found in Lethbridge. We got a good laugh. Candy cigarettes for the little munchkins? Great neighbors!!

-The Gilbert Temple a few weeks back. So exciting!!-Ryann enjoying the ocean at the library-Knick knacks at Anthropology-Bestie Ethyn-My sleepy gal-Cole watching the kite fly-Prepping for the big "D"!!!

Renzo's Funeral

2011-11-13T22:29:00.000-08:00

I woke up Sunday morning to Jared handing me the phone with a worried face and he said, "It's Carolyn. She's crying." I shot straight up and said, "Hello?" She gave me the sad news and I just started shaking. "No!" My brother Kelly had been trying to reach me but he couldn't. They had found Renzo and his three friends early that morning and they had all been killed in a car accident. They were supposed to be home at 11pm, but by 5:00am Kelly got a phone call from one of the parents asking if Renzo had made it home yet. He hadn't. They all met at the fire station. None of the kid's cell phones were on or working. They had taken a back road home on gravel (very common around there), and apparently approached a bridge where they lost control, hit a guard rail and flipped upside down in the creek. All of them were killed instantly. I couldn't move for the rest of the day. I just sat and stared at my computer trying desperately to be in contact with my family SOMEHOW. Seriously? Facebook was the best we could do? Yep. At least I was seeing the events unfold and being kept up to date. Everyone was in too much shock to be on the phone. I just cried as I thought how badly I wanted to be with my family NOW! It bothered me even more as I realized I couldn't even go home for the funeral because I didn't have a passport still. If there ever was a time I needed my family, it was now. I tossed and turned all day long trying to figure out what I could do. I finally called the border to check the possibility of me crossing over without one. BINGO! They would. So then with the help of some amazing friends and family, I was able to find a flight to Utah and drove from there with my sister Carolyn.

My brother, his wife and kids and my other niece at the accident site.

(newspaper picture)

This is where I grew up. Small town of over just 2000 people. Very small LDS community in southern Alberta. Everyone knows everyone and 4 of their youth had died that night. It was surreal seeing all of the support and community outpouring.

This building is usually painted back and forth each year between rivalry towns.

It sits between Magrath and Lethbridge.

I thought it was so cool that their friends did this.

I knew that seeing my family would be emotional, but I wasn't aware that this would be a spiritual high for me. The veil was very thin and I knew we were not alone the entire time we were at Kelly's house. It was the the most amazing experience. I was so thankful to be there in that sacred place. We spent much needed time together and were able to share our memories of Renzo and to just be there for each other. It felt amazing. I thank Heavenly Father for the tender mercy of allowing me to feel and experience what I did and to be there for my brother. Renzo is on the most amazing mission. He was such a happy, good kid. I love that his last post on his Facebook was....

"I LOVE LIFE!"

Me and my brother KellySo grateful for the many friends and family who helped me in different ways to get there. Thank you all so much. I sure needed to be there. Love you Kelly.

My cutie pie niece Cassandra

My brother Chris, and sister Darla

My niece Natalie, me, sister Julie, brother Chris

A very surreal experience.

My dad's brother, Gordon and sister, Audrey.

These two were quite the novelty to me and my siblings. They reminded us SO much of our dad and our grandma that they were like rockstars. I could not believe the flood of memories that came rushing back as I saw them. It was a small taste of what it will be like to see my dad and grandma again.

Cassandra

Autumn

Me and my siblings, minus one.

My mom and her husband Grant, Uncle Gordon, and Aunt Audrey

My nieces and nephews who flew in from Ontario. I do not feel like their aunt. They feel like my little brothers and sisters and I love them to pieces.

Nephew Adam

Niece Reagan

(Her son Nicholas is the same age as Cole and they look like twinners!)

Nephew Brady

Sister in law Rowena and niece Patricia

Nephew Brady and niece Cassandra

Me and Patricia
Life is short. This trip made me so grateful for my family. I miss them dearly. My family does not have the best track record for staying in touch. I am hoping if anything comes of this, it's that we let each other know we care a bit more often and share more of our lives with each other. I sure love you all.

Ry's Makeover

2011-11-12T22:19:00.000-08:00

Sister loves to help me get ready. Very often while I am putting on my make-up, I feel her watching, and wandering around at my feet, her little hands sneakily reaching up into my make-up bag and suddenly disappearing into my closet. This day was different. I hoisted her up onto the counter and let her go to town... AND she wanted her hair put back into a piggy like mommy's too. Her hair is finally growing!

Cute, satisfied little face.

Ry & Cole

2011-11-10T00:07:00.000-08:00

Ryann adores her big brother Cole and he adores her. He is her protector.

Her dad saw it on Youtube!

2011-11-09T22:54:00.000-08:00

Carter: Mom, did you put my letter from Peyton on youtube?

Me: No!

Carter: Well Peyton's dad said he saw it on youtube.

Me: No he did not.

Carter: Well she said her dad saw it on there.

Me: No honey. I promise.

(He COULD have seen it on a text though)

Carter had been talking about and calling Peyton over the past few weeks and I finally figured out who she was before this letter came home or I would have started worrying. Thankfully her mom is someone I kind of know through photography and she is in our stake. LOL. I texted her mom and shared this letter that he came home with. She laughed.

Translation:I love you Carter.I want to marry you.You are hot ( oh dear )"Fone" number...
So funny!

Hiding Behind the Camera

2011-11-09T22:28:00.000-08:00

My friend Julie is always telling me how much she wishes I could be on the other side of the camera for once so my kids could see us interact. While shooting her office a few months back, she snatched my camera and asked if she could please get some of me and Ryann while we were reading. I didn't want to post them, but I've let these pics go for a long time now. I am going to be brave and add them. Me and Ryann read a lot together. Every night before bed we have our little ritual as most moms do with their little ones. Instinctively they know the exact order things are to be done in... how many and what type of kisses, moving the pillow just right for stories, how many books to read and how to read them funny, which songs to sing, how to pray (even though right now there are still intermittent giggles. She says Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen). We're still practicing the middle. I love our little time together at night and secretly look forward to any stirring in the night that allows me to sneak in more hugs and kisses.

Julie had fun new books in her office. Ryann wanted to read them all. They were darling and fun.

Thanks Julie!!

Funny Chain of Events

2011-11-09T21:16:00.000-08:00

They play so well together on the trampoline.... but this day was a bit different.

Ryann really wanted that pointer and she had begged and chased Carter for it.

Carter mostly got a kick out of the chasing.

Then she got mad

Carter still thought it was funny but gave her the pointer... nice kid.

SMACK!

Kissing Carter's owie

And pointer is removed from her little hands and play resumes

Carter needed a little sugar for his head

A blue candied tongue makes it all better

Man I was so happy I happened to catch this little event. It felt terrible that I was taking pictures as each thing happened, but darn it, I wanted it captured.**Mother's Disclaimer**I did stop to discipline and assess the situation. LOL.

Crazy Halloween Night

2011-10-31T22:06:00.000-07:00

Each year I envision an amazing Halloween Party with creative and fun decorations... yummy desserts, appetizers, and drinks and close good friends to share it all with.

Yet... I seem to fall short every time. I had great intentions of at least throwing a costume of some sort together for myself and spending time chatting with my girlfriends. We would ogle over our children's costumes and listen to their squeals of excitement as they discover another lit porch with glowing pumpkins awaiting them.

However, this is very far from reality. Within minutes of getting off the bus, my house was flooded with every child from the neighborhood because they had heard there was a "party" going on at the Crouse's. They also heard there was going to be a haunted house in the garage and everyone wanted to help get it ready. I couldn't help but wonder who else my children had informed and how many people I would actually be hosting. It got a little hairy for a while. I hadn't even combed my hair for the day, never mind whip together a random costume. After my two friends showed up, they suggested that I make myself a stop sign for my front window that lets neighborhood kids know when it's "okay to come over." I can NEVER say no to them. More to come on that handy sign.

Jared was still at work by the time the party started and I was madly running food, drinks, chairs, tables, and goodies out to the driveway. Needless to say, it didn't turn out as I had hoped and I barely got a word in edgewise to my girlfriends. But darn it, nobody was going to stop me from taking pictures despite the madness and my kids seemed to have a great time. The weather was beautiful and my little kiddies delivered on the goods.

Note to self: Directions on a make up kit... WORKS AWESOME.

Ryann's buddies

Will as "Percy Jackson"

Kim handin' out toothpaste of course... and candy too.

Cinderella
Oh yeah, another thing I didn't get to do very well. Her hair or her costume. Still cute.

Random Thoughts

2011-10-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

Every morning Ry calls for me to come get her and I whisk her away into my bed for a quick snuggle. Morning breath, wet diaper and all.

Ryann: Mom you holding me?

Me: Yes!

Ryann: Thank you for holding me!

Me: You're welcome!

Ryann: I love you hold me! (giggle)

Me: I want to eat you up!!!!

OLD SCHOOL'N IT

My older sister Julie and I sat inside her closet a few weeks back and browsed through old boxes of school memories and came across two pairs of old glasses that she used to wear. We were rolling on the floor as we put them on and made faces. Ryann was no dummy and saw how much fun we were having so she had to join in. She had us laughing pretty hard.

Holy funny!!!

SLEEP TALKIN' AND SLAPPIN
Ryann while sleeping last night: Grandma, I LOVE your books!! (repeated 3 times)

Poor girl is used to repeating herself in order to be heard that even in her dream she had to repeat it. She talks, screams, hits, slaps and kicks in her sleep. I try to keep her sleeping in my bed to a minimum, as I'm not fond of being double-slapped in my sleep. It's pretty crazy how she manages to get 2 in there so quickly!!! It's quite shocking. LOL.

MY LITTLE HELPER

She loves to help cook, bake and clean.

BABY MILKSFor a couple of months now, Ryann pats my chest and says, "This is baby milks! You have two baby milks." Mom: YepRyann: And that's a baby (pointing to my belly)Mom: NopeRyann: Yes!Mom: No, there's no baby in there
And then she began nursing her baby, and the dragon puppet. She pats their little backs while they "drink" the baby milk.
She had me worried for a while that she knew something I didn't, but it's confirmed. No baby in there!

WELCOME SIGNSMy good friend Martha is always up for a good date night swap. Every time we bring our kids over, there are chalkboard welcome signs for our kids and family. I just LOVE it. I finally whipped out my phone to capture the latest ones. Thanks Molly and Devon! We sure love you!
Every time Ryann and Molly see each other, they have to run and hug. It's so cute. They are sisters.

IS SANTA FOR REAL?

Carter: Mom, when I grow up and I'm a dad, will I know what to do?

Me: What do you mean?

Carter: Like when it's Christmas... Are you guys Santa?

Me: Oh, you will grow up and know what to do. I promise.

Carter: ARE you Santa?

Me: What do you think?

Carter: Well I think you are because the Easter Bunny isn't real.

Me: Why do you say that?

Carter: Well rabbits don't talk mom. It's fake.

Me: Laughing

Carter: So are you Santa?

Me: Do you think me and dad could come up with that much money for Christmas?

Carter: No.

Me: Exactly.

Walking to get the mail. So pretty.

The Play Group

2011-10-03T15:41:00.000-07:00

She's just like her momma. I hope it will change... for her sake. I love my friends one-on-one, but put me with more than a few at once, I turn into a social nerd. The day we held playgroup at my house I witnessed it for myself. I don't think she played with one person. She sat back and observed and cried on the floor at one point. Apparently she hangs out with her friend's mom's at their houses and sits back. It's hard to watch her little insecurities, and it makes me take inventory of my own. I wish I could tell my kids to just spread their little wings and take life in. She'll get there one day.

A few girls brought their contribution to snack time! So cute.

Love it.

The List and a little cleanin'

2011-10-01T22:18:00.000-07:00

I think we all want our families to appreciate the time and effort us moms put into one single day. Non-stop dishes, picking up constantly, endless laundry, feeding babies, vacuuming, dusting, making sure everyone is fed, clothed, teeth brushed, turkey tails brushed down smoothly for school, homework signed and reviewed, nagging kids to do their chores, mustering up semi-healthy meals, grocery shopping, babysitting other's kids, taking a moment to play with the kids, kissing boo-boos, sweeping, mopping, potty-training, journaling or blogging, cleaning up "accidents," answering phone calls while changing a poopy diaper and maybe even answering the door too, texting and checking in on friends in need, baking for visiting teaching and probably home teaching too, finding time for your calling, exercising, yard work, soothing a crying child, budgeting, bills, doctors appointments, reading scriptures and praying (both personal and family), volunteering, finding time to do my job, baths and showers, school projects, sick kids, couponing, covering my grays, getting dressed and ready (rare) and making time for your spouse! These are just a handful of things that need to be done at the house, never mind the demands others put on us.

Enter... THE LIST.

How else are we expected to remember SO many things?

Some days it sure feels like a thank-less job. Especially when it's all undone within minutes of the kids coming home. I know it has been a long day when after a short drive to pick my husband up from work, my body is stiff upon exiting the van.

**That's what happens when you sit still**

And at the end of the day, I either fall asleep at the computer... pressing random keys or clicking my mouse or literally falling into my bed. My mad book readin' skillz amount to a quarter of a page read (at least 4 times over and over) until it collapses on my chest. Unfortunately I will never have the pleasure of attending book club with the gals from the ward. I honestly try. Jared has removed that collapsed book from my chest many-a-nights. I usually end up re-reading that paragraph the next night too.

This morning I put my family to some serious work.

The kids were most excited about this job. It was the last one on my list.

Our poor van doesn't get washed maybe once a year. And of course

the weather is cooling down. I'm sure rain will follow!!

I had nightmarish visions of her falling in headfirst as she teetered on her tippy toes to reach the soapy water. So I made them fill it up a bit higher so she didn't have to reach so far
And Ryann turned it into bath time
And Will did a little tanning

It was impossible to NOT get each other wet. To end it all... I had very wet, tanned, happy children... and a happy still dirty van.It'll just go on a list for another day.

2011-09-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

Well it's a good thing Jared didn't let me get rid of the legos a long time. Suddenly my boys and their friends are playing with them all the time. It makes a lovely decorated bedroom. But I must say their little productions have been quite impressive! I'll forgive the mess.

If it ain't black or white... paint it black or white. I have a serious problem with color.I have no imagination... so I stole this little blue shelf from a garage sale for $1 and painted it...white.

And good old Heather helped me with my other furniture too.

Playing in the Rain

2011-09-26T16:46:00.000-07:00

It's funny how a little rain can change your day.

This was not the shoot I was expecting. I was supposed to be taking pictures of my friend and her kiddos and preserving some memories for them, but instead I was spontaneously creating my own and I loved it.

The sun was still peeking through the clouds and lighting up our street. Cars drove by slowly, watching these cooped up Arizona kids running happily through the streets. It gave me a deep sense of hope and excitement that the heat is nearly gone.

Ryann entranced by the feel of the rain... you go girl.

I think she was still wondering . . . if this was truly okay to be doing.

I think even at this young age, the feeling of fall creeps up and lifts their little spirits too.Amen to the smell of pumpkins, candles, crisp leaves, homemade stew and the sounds of a crackling fire, and of course, family and friends.

And then I threw dad out into the madness. I've been craving some family spontaneity.He didn't last long with the icy cold rain.

But they definitely made a little memory.

Bits of hail began to fall.

And to top off the evening, we had a huge hail storm that covered our backyard. It was a typical friday night at our house... kids everywhere. Just how I like it. We made naughty "hail" jokes and laughed guiltily and sat back and watched the kids run through it. Dad stood outside to prove his manliness to his children. Yeah honey. You are one tough cookie. The kids and I grabbed little bowls full of "snowballs" and threw them in our fridge as a souvenir.

I love days like this.

Torture Time and Sweet Letters

2011-09-08T21:47:00.000-07:00

TORTURE TIME
Driving home the other night, we passed by a small strip mall and out of Carter's mouth came,

"What is torture time?" It took me a second to figure out what he was asking and as I glanced to my left I burst out laughing. "Honey, it says Tutor Time." He then talked about how a little girl in his school class gets picked up by their bus every day. It was so funny. So all this time he thought that poor girl was being tortured after school? Bless his heart!!! I love it.

SWEET LETTERS

Before leaving for California, I wrote notes to my kids all over the boy's bathroom mirror. Upon my return, I had sweet little letters all over my bathroom mirror in return. I loved it! I drew a picture of myself for Ryann and she would touch my face and one day she accidentally erased part of my face and made dad re-draw it. So Jared helped her draw a picture of herself for me. So cute.
She also knew her avenue to talking to mom was dad's phone. I loved her little phone calls.

FROM CARTER
Dear Mom: I missed you and I love you very much. From Carter
P.S. Here's a sign

FROM COLE
Welcome Home Mom!!!
I missed you so much and I'm so excited for the date I earned from chores. I hope you had a fun time in California with Em! I also had fun texting you and playing games while waiting for a response.
Hugs and Kisses

FROM WILL
Dear Mom,
Mom, I missed you so much. It's amazing how you saw a baby crab and dolphins. I hope you had a great time.
Kisses and hugs

FROM RY
Luv U! Heart, kisses and hugs

I didn't have the heart to erase them for days. Pictures would have to do eventually.

Girls Jaunt to Cali

2011-09-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

Emali asked me to come with her on a quick trip to California to see her friend in an upcoming TV show taping of "The Sing Off". I felt so guilty leaving my kids and Jared to fend for themselves and taking a weekend off... but man I needed it. We have been a one car family for a few months now and that means I am stranded at home most days and I needed fresh air . . . and not "115 degrees fresh air."

I felt like a little kid on the beach and of course all I could think about was how much I wanted my kids to be there to experience it with me. After all they are my little subjects.
And I braved the sand with my actual camera AND camera phone.
THE SING OFF

That is some crazy stuff watching a real life episode of TV being filmed. I was pretty much tired of clapping by 1AM. We also got interviewed by some guy (Famous, but don't know who he was). We had JUST barely made it into the show by the skin of our teeth. We had stood in line for 3.5 hours and by the time we sat down we were a sweaty mess and within seconds there's a camera in my face. I was not happy. I hope that little segment disappears somehow. Nick Liche is a little-little man. I guess in comparison to my height, he is very little. Fun to see all of the action though! I also got to see Sara Bareilles too (one of the judges this season).

VENICE BEACH

We started out on the boardwalk and had fun looking at all the vendors and . . . the odd little ducks along the way! Just in case you didn't know where Santa goes during the summer...

Whoa. It's been a rough year for Santa.

Two headed turtle

Fresh homemade donuts. Yum!!
AND A ROAMING STARAs I started down the little aisle of shops, a familiar face happily passed me and I had to do a double take. I knew she was familiar!! It was Andie McDowell.She was taking pictures of this little Rasta band and I was taking pictures of her!
After the beach we ran over to the mall to meet Em's friend and I thought I'd try contacting my long lost nieces . .. THANK YOU FACEBOOK!! They literally responded within seconds and just happened to be minutes away from me. Last time I saw them was ten years ago. They are all grown up and so beautiful!! Our visit was short, but it was so good to see them.

NEWPORT BEACHI sooo wanted a sunset picture and we missed it by literally minutes!! We reached the top of this hill and Em pulled off the road and I ran to the top of it to snap a few pics.

After the mall we headed down the coast about an hour to Newport Beach. Complete 180 from downtown LA. It was so nice. We had booked a great hotel and headed down to the beach. I walked down my first pier. It was pitch black out on the ocean and there was a cloud cover and slightly foggy. All along the pier there were families fishing with their kids, babies, friends. I loved it and a little restaurant at the end. And of course all I could think about was Jared and the kids.

I was sadly on a diet this entire weekend trip and it literally killed me to be on vaca eating NOTHING good. So I planned a sweet cheat on the pier.
Mmmm!!! My downfall. Chocolate Gelato with crushed almonds and walnuts... and a slice of pizza. Uh, yeah, so worth it!
We sat at the edge of the beach and S-L-O-W-LY savored my ice cream. Then I walked next to the water and drew in the sand. It felt so good.
HUNTINGTON BEACHAfter sleeping in til 9:30 AM we grabbed some breakfast and headed to the beach for a little R&R and some reading. I did my usual (few pages) and was too restless and instead I went and found shells for my kiddos.

Baby sand crabs
Huntington Beach was flipping packed!! All in all it was a very relaxing trip and I had a great time. Thanks Em for the spontaneous trip and for some good memories!

Iphone madness and a birthday

2011-08-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

My upstairs is vibrating with screams of laughter. Cole has finished his 30 second shower and streaks down the hallway excitedly as he hears his siblings having a good time without him and slips on anything that will pass as pajamas. My natural instinct is to tell them to settle down, but I've heard nothing but whining, fighting, and sad voices since school let out. I sit still and silent... and smile. They are showered, jammied, chores done, and my house is clean. It feels good to hear them be happy together.

And so it's finally happened. I have stopped taking my camera along with me and have found a fun little app on my phone. I need to go back to the camera... but for just a while, it has been fun to mess around.

Off to school

Cole's Birthday Bash

Laser Tag

Cake Madness

I love her enough to get sick on the merry-go-round

This definitely needed its own explanation. These were Cole's birthday gifts he asked for.

The Girls went to a late showing of "The Help" and cousins slept over.

and

in the morning we had an early swim

I love having dad in the pool with the kiddos

Cousin Lo-Lo (Lauryn) and Ry

Mom and Ry shopping Date

Mom braving the grill. Wahoo and yummm!!

Cole earned his arrow of light and is now in 11 yr old scouts

Ry and Sydney helping Grandma with her window cleanin'

You know how kids like to eat your food when YOU finally get a chance to sit down?

This is new ground Ry. Sheesh!

Ryann's favorite foods!

Chicken nuggets, ketchup, beefaroni, ketchup, turkey, ketchup, "baby cheese," and more ketchup.

Ry's typical breakfast. Fruit, yogurt and toast

Evidence of Papa's yummy ice cream!

Did you know that polly pocket hats will stick to your face? Thanks Ry!

Relief Society Sale-a-bration

I'm bummed I never took a picture of my "window shop" but here is part of it.

My shop was "Things Remembered," showing blogging, photo decoration ideas, journaling etc.

This is one of my greatest treasures. Playing cards from Artscow.com

So stinking cheap and cute.

Grandpa Bowler's Prayer Rugs

My kids got their own rugs from Grandpa Bowler this past week. They were all so excited to have their own. Each boy has theirs next to their bed and have been using them every night. Love, love, love that he made them for my kids. I love their history. Thanks Grandpa :)

Gma's got a new toy at her house!

Papa's flowers

Friday Phone Dump

2011-08-12T15:45:00.000-07:00

I've been frustrated with what to do with the pictures on my phone. Saw this idea on Kelle Hampton's blog and I'm gonna run with it! Quick summary of our little adventures through each week via phone :)

Love it. Thanks Kelle.

Top: Left to right

Ry and Uncle Sky eat'n papa's brownie ice cream

Ry and Carty snugglin'

Ev's new super cool (don't touch it) haircut

Ry and her buddy Ethyn

Papa's yummy Sunday waffles

Ry and Molly baking

Ry and her buddy Ethyn

Julio Too's for lunch on our date with the boys

Free Krispy Kremes for the boys A's

Ry and Ethyn playin' trains

Ry and Tegan at the pool

Ry in the car sleepin'

Ry sleepin' on me in bed

Ry shoppin' with a purse and heels at Kohls

"Choke and Puke" menu from back in the day

(We think Grandpa Patey painted this one)

Date at the movies with the boys (Rio)

Will and mom's bike ride view

Ry asleep on me again!

Moi

Thoughts on motherhood

2011-08-09T00:27:00.000-07:00

I'll admit some days I feel guilty when I can't spend hours just laying around and snuggling with each child and having meaningful conversations with my children. I give what I can and feel guilty plenty enough for the times I can't. I just pray my kids will somehow tuck these little moments into their long-term memory and remember just how precious they are to me. It's a feeling I remember well as a child.
When I think of my mother when I was tiny, I don't have many distinct or detailed memories.It's simply a whirlpool of feelings I had when I was around her.
Secure.Loved.Warm.Special.
I knew there was plenty going on in the lives of my parents and there was plenty of heartache and trouble to go around, but she did an amazing job despite those things. I remember little things that made me feel safe. Washing my hair in the sink, sitting on the counter next to her while she prepared and baked bread and cinnamon rolls, watching her cook and breathing in the amazing smells as I came home from school, her dimples, watching soap operas with her in the afternoon while stealing bites of her salads, snowball fights in the house, ice cream (one massive bowl for the family), her kissing my dad and snuggling on the couch, family prayer, her singing, always telling me I was beautiful whether or not I wanted to hear it or believe it, her testimony, music blaring through our house and always having a clean house despite eight crazy children running around.
As I have these precious little moments with my children, I wish I could fly back through time to watch little moments with my mom. I know we had plenty of moments together.. not because I can recall them, but because I obviously learned how to love them from her.
I love-love-love my babies. I just pray they will always remember and feel how much I loved them too.
Will they know how many times a day I kissed their soft round cheeks?
Will they know about the pit in my stomach as they left to go back to school this morning and how I held back my tears?
Will they know how much I loved to dance with them around our kitchen, in my room, on the bed, and while we clean the house?Will they know how happy it makes me to see them happy?
Will they know how many times I REALLY wanted to kiss and hug them at bed time (even though I insisted they get one) and wished I could just snuggle in next to them and fall asleep next to them each night and whisper how many ways I love them?
Do they know JUST how much I want to do silly fun things like take them on an airplane just for the day so they can say they've been on one? Or take them to Disneyland just to see their little faces light up? We do with what we have and I hope they realize it doesn't mean I love them any less. Will they know how much I love looking through my kitchen window (fingerprints and all) to find them playing together with their baby sister?
Today Cole entered junior high. I have been an emotional wreck this week, thinking about time.I remember everyone telling me how quickly it flies. But I swear it's increased in speed. It has to have!I am mourning the fact that my children are growing out of their "little" years and what I am going to do with myself. Maybe this is why I've been allowing Ryann to go unpotty trained for sometime. Jared wants to close the door on having more, but I'm just not ready to shut it. Sunday morning as I was getting my make-up on I just started sobbing and couldn't stop, thinking about no more little ones in my home. So much for my make up. He walked into the room and just hugged me and kissed me and asked if I was listening to church music again while trying to put on make up. Yep. I am just so thankful for the knowledge that I will always be a mother and that when we die, we will still be a family and I will remember these times together.
There's only one thing I want time to speed up for.... being a grandma so I can love on my grandkids just as much.

Good old Utah

2011-08-08T22:35:00.000-07:00

The irony is ridiculous. We are seriously cursed when we leave the state of Arizona and step into Utah. Two years ago, it left us stranded in the dessert without an engine, dead cell phones, separated, and any money we had left snatched up by the greasy (sorry can't take your wife and kids) tow truck driver. Stuck for 2 days... an extra hotel bill, food, rental car and much more heartache. We swore Utah off.

Well as summer was closing, I was feeling a bit sorry for my children as I watched post after post of people leaving the state for Disneyland, oceanside properties, SeaWorld, beach days in Mexico and trips just for fun all over the flipping place. Our big trip this year was Payson. Summer always starts out with great intentions of days cooling off poolside, picnicking, crafty-baking days, friends, late nights, barbecues, swimming, and list after list of activities for my children. With 3 weeks left to go, my kids had that look in their eyes... "Really? THAT was our summer?" It pierced me to the soul because we never have the money to do THOSE types of things... but gosh darn it, my kids are sooo good and deserving and I was having a pity party. Well one morning I had a crazy idea. WHAT IF... I schedule some photoshoots up in Utah? They will cover my costs! I didn't have to babysit for 2 weeks. Jared was working. The plan was there and it stuck for days. I started working figures, strategizing, pondering, calling friends and family, praying, crying and pretty much completely stressing myself out.

After praying one night, I had no feeling either way whether I should go. Hello. Discouraged. Do I take the car? The van? Which is more likely to break down? After a beautiful blessing from Jared, an answered prayer in the scriptures, someone to check out my van, and a family to caravan with me up there, I had made my decision! I would follow my friends to Vegas and spend the night with their family, then drive the rest the next day. Jared would fly up the following weekend and drive back with us. It was perfect! The day before I left, I was told I had to have my fuel pump changed ($450). Son of a gun. Unexpected, frustrating, but at least I was safe from breaking down. Right?

Our first night was GREAT!! Much thanks to Jen and Franklin. Their family was so welcoming and the kids swam for hours, ate pizza, stayed up late eating popcorn, playing with kids and dogs. We hit the sack and shot up early in the morning. I was anxious to get driving in the early morning. We said our good-byes and I was confident enough that if they were behind me and I broke down, at least they would drive by me. I put the pedal to the metal and I stopped one time for gas and refused to stop anymore. Poor kids. Boys have water bottles, Ry has a diaper!!
Made it in great time and before rush hour!! Wahoo!!

The kids had made us a cute welcome sign!

Hello 20 degrees cooler!!
That night Chris made the yummiest chicken and barbecued like no one else. He is an amazing father and husband. I love spending time with their family. I sooo wish they would move to Arizona!!Their dog Molly had just had puppies. My kids were in H-E-A-V-E-N!!

That night the fireworks came out in abundance! They had just passed a new law that allowed the massive fireworks to be set off by anyone. We sat on the street, lathered ourselves in mosquito repellent and held our babies close as the screams of fireworks danced through the streets.
We sat in our chairs, ate ice cream and snuggled up in our blankets. Ryann dozed off in my arms, and I ate up every moment! I eventually peeled her soft, sleepy body off of my shoulder and laid her in her bed. The kids had discovered a new game that would echo through our ears for the next 8 days. Dancing with the Kinect. Lady Gaga over and over and over. But man, my boys were dancing fools by the time we left. We lit tiki torches and a warm fire in the backyard while we visited and the kids played, "I never," and danced.
Saturday included some shopping, lunch with the kiddos and a photoshoot.
After a good sunday morning sleep in, I woke up to the smell of homemade blueberry pancakes, bacon and eggs. Yummers!It was very hard for me not to feel guilty continually as they cooked me meals and fed my children.
We went to sacrament meeting. It was fun to hear that a boy was called to my mission. I got up and bore my testimony. After sacrament meeting Ryann knew it was time for "class." I held her hand down to the nursery to show her that we weren't at her class, but a new ward. She did not care one bit. She was clawing at the wall to go in. She screamed all the way home. I had never seen her come that unglued. Whoa. Her auntie Carolyn and her cousins walked right into the house and catered right to her little desires. A room was prepared, snacks were made, crafts and music magically appeared... just for Ry. I think the older kids enjoyed it just as much!!Thanks guys for being so sweet to her.

Those first few days I was receiving sad little phone calls from Jared, missing us. It's always harder when you're the one stuck at home alone! After the kids were in bed, we'd call each other and talk like we were dating again. Loved it.This was his flirtatious text to me. I laughed so hard.

Monday the 4th of July - Kaysville Parade or....I was SO excited to take my kids to their first parade. We raced to grab drinks, treats and enough chairs to enjoy the parade. 3 miles down the road... my van dies. Are you KIDDING me?(photo courtesy of Chris)
My I-15 parade

I'm on the phone with my insurance company, waiting for a tow truck. Van ends up in the shop for an entire week as they are trying to recreate the issue. Bad fuel pump. AGAIN?? I was not a happy camper.

Thankfully our mechanic and the new shop worked together and after ordering parts from the east coast, our van was ready to go the day before we left. I was so thankful that Carolyn had a work vehicle to use and she was gracious enough to let me use her van for the week!! (Another $670)

I get a phone call from Jared later that week.

Jed: "Hey guess what?"

Me: "What?"

Jed: "My car broke down too."

Me: "Shut up! Are you freaking kidding me?"

Jed: "Nope. I think it's something simple."

Me: "So you're saying I would have broken down regardless of which vehicle I took?"

Jed: "Yeah. Pretty much."

Me: "Nice."

Ends up it had blown the head gaskets. $2000 dollar fix

STILL not fixed. I just wanted to cry.

on a lighter note...

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!

We celebrated our native land as well

O'Canada!

Chris ran to the dollar store and bought tons of treats (he WAS the treat man)

and lots of glow sticks for the kids.

I ran into my two close friends, Areta and Julie. It was fun to see them!

I spent a few days home with the kiddos and they ran through sprinklers, played with puppies, danced, and danced some more!

TEMPLE SQUARE Wednesday I had planned a trip to temple square with my kids. I was so glad we did.It was hot, but not 115!

The church museum for kidsNephi's boat

Enos Praying Little Lamanite Ry

Building and tearing down!
Feeding the missionaries

Sewing quilts

John Taylor's watch that saved his life
Joseph and Hyrum
Pioneer Wagon
View from the Garden restaurant

My mission companion, Keva Gneiting met me for lunch at the garden. We hadn't seen each other since the mission! She was so much fun.
Found out I missed the popular Haboob. It was big news! I guess our backyard was a mess!

ARETA'S HOUSESpent much of the day with my good friend Areta. We planned to just hang and swim and celebrate Ry's birthday. It was such a fun day. (a pic from her shoot)

Areta's backyard

Ry and Claire

Jules was there and had helped make Ry some cupcakes.

THE GREAT TURKEY WALKAreta's neighbor had done a little reading group for the boys in her neighborhood. She invited us to join them at the school park. At the end of the book, their activity was to see how hard it would be to get the "turkeys" across a field, never mind thousands of miles. She also gave the kids cookies after. So stinking cute!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LIL SIS We swam at the pool for a couple of hours and brought the cupcakes to decorate.

The kids had a blast

That night was also Chris and Carolyn's orthodontist's pool party at the Roy Pool.The kids seriously went nuts!Free: Dinner, snow cones, cotton candy, balloons, donuts, dunk tank, water slides, pool, diving board.I didn't want to take my camera in there. Carter said it was the best day of his life.

Came home and opened a few gifts from friends and family.

FRIDAY GIRLS NIGHT OUT Friday night Chris watched the kids while me and Carolyn finally got to spend some time together. We went out to dinner, laughed really hard (felt so good), went shopping and just visited. It was what the doctor ordered.

Saturday Daddy arrived!! He was so cute at the airport. He was dressed in my favorite outfit, cologne and all and gave me a huge kiss. It was so good to see him!! Ry missed her daddy.
DOUBLE DATE NIGHTSaturday night, Chris, Carolyn, me and Jared went on a double date. It was super fun. We all love to hunt deals. So we started our date out at Cafe Rio... bought four entrees and total cost was $6 after coupons. Oh yeah.

Next we hit two Targets and scoured their clearance aisles. We have done that in the past with them, but over the phone, making jokes, taking pictures of funny finds etc. It was fun to do together for real. We found a lot of fun little treasures.

Then we went out for ice cream at DQ in the pouring rain.

My favorite part at the end of the day is putting the kids to bed and just visiting 'til the wee hours of the morning. Those Featherstons are some good fun peoples.
LAYTON PARKSunday we went to the Layton park to spend time together. It was fun to see our kids together at an old park merry-go-round.

THE DANCE COMPETITIONWhile making Sunday evening dinner these little signs began to mysteriously appear all over the house. We were being invited to a dance show: Dancing Dragons VS Dancing FireWe videoed their little show. It was so stinking cute!

All in all, my trip to Utah was a blast and it was so relaxing and just good! I loved being able to spend time with my sister and her family, letting the cousins bond, seeing old friends, and getting out of the Arizona summer heat. Thanks a million you guys for making us feel so welcome and for letting us invade your home. You guys are awesome. Love you tons!!

My cute big sis Carolyn.
I have many people asking me about her cancer status.
So far, she has been clear and doing well!! We are so happy for her and pray she will continue to do well! Love you Carrie!

My Little Bug Lover

2011-07-24T23:29:00.000-07:00

During our hike at Fools Hollow, Will stumbled upon a few little bugs. He has always been a lover of bugs. (Won't touch them) but very fascinated with them. Okay, except the time he ATE an earthworm for a $10 old school game for the wii. What??

This boy is such a great kid. He has a very distinct personality and he definitely stands out.

Will... named after his Grandpa Willard (Skip) Crouse.

His nickname is "Ev" (middle name Evan)

Things that describe him today at age 9:

Cool

(love hearing him talk with his friends when he thinks I'm not listening)

Loves music

Loves to dance (good moves)

Loves to sing (Great voice)

Loves to snuggle

Loves video games

Spending time in the mountains

Time with family

Movies

Already into girls (Rosalie his crush for 2 yrs)

Loves the gospel

Loves to ride his bike

Loves his friends

Loves Ramen and helping cook it

Loves animals

Loves to invent

Loves to play pretend

Jumping on the trampoline and play fighting

Soccer and basketball

Is growing out his hair

Starting to smell like a little man!!

Sweet on his mom (love that)

Very friendly to everyone

I always tease him that he smells like a newborn after he showers and I can't help but kiss his soft

little cheeks. He tells me there's a secret to it. LOL.

A little stick bug

Creek at the Hatchery

2011-07-24T23:13:00.000-07:00

Days like these are oh so good. We ventured down to a creek near the fish hatchery outside of Payson. The sun felt extra hot today and we were so excited to find ourselves a little creek. At first we just sat creekside and devoured snacks and shared ice cold water and capri suns. Juicy oranges never tasted so good.

Slowly one by one everyone dispersed and began their own little adventure.

Dad found a shady rock and was soon deep into book. I sat on my own little rock and just observed as one by one, the boys began undressing and pressing through little trails. I was a bit jealous that Jared had found a great little place and had the forethought to bring a book. I NEVER seem to find the time. I kept interrupting him, vying for his attention. He seemed pretty content so I gave up.

I gathered up the evidence of our snacks to keep ants from joining our little place and picked up my camera. I was going to have my own little photo adventure.

I sat and pondered this rock for quite a while. How on earth did it get there?

Water skeetersI love their little shadows of padded feet

These guys were everywhere near the water. Baby water skeeters?

Eventually Jared began harassing me back. He wanted to go explore further down the creek. Soon enough he was beckoning me to come towards him because he found our own little swimming hole.

And the stripping began . . along with some betting.We paid out quite a bit.

Carter's face depicts exactly how cold that snow melted water felt.
Fish were swimming all around them

Ryann was not to be left out. She was soon unclothed as well.

I adore watching Jared with Ryann. It crushes me to believe that I could possibly be done having kids. She has his full heart. He dotes on her and I love watching his soft squishy side.
Post creek swimHeaded back to the van. Ryann helped out her baby with a little ride on her shoulders.

Definitely made some good memories on this day

Cart's Cast

2011-07-24T22:46:00.000-07:00

After six years of living with a trampoline and boys who love to wrestle and play rough . . . we finally broke something! Dad took the kids swimming. Carter jumped in the pool and hit his pinky finger on Will's head! That's all it took. He broke his pinky above the growth plate and whallah.. a cast. Carter loved the attention it got him and made sure everyone had a chance to sign it. I felt so bad for him because he couldn't swim in 110 degree weather for 3 weeks. BUT this boy just adores attention.

If offered, he will snuggle with you ANYTIME! Snuggling to him means several things: Caressing his legsTickling his armsLiterally tickling the snot out of him (feet (his favorite), chest, underarms, neck)KissingLaying next to himHugsAnd who wouldn't want to kiss those full little red lips that his father passed on to him?I try my best to "snuggle" Carter a bit each day. It means the world to him.
Love you Carty.

Pinedale Cabin

2011-07-24T00:15:00.000-07:00

Our first official summer trip! We went to Pinedale, Arizona to the Mollenhauer's cabin. We drove up through Globe for some different scenery. Among the "Are we there yets," "I gotta pee," "I'm hungry and thirsty," boys fighting and little sister being tired and randomly letting out ear piercing screams, I thoroughly enjoyed the drive. I was determined to get this family out of the valley of deathly hot temperatures and make some memories in the cooler temps! Regardless of the blistering temperatures, Arizona definitely has some beauty to it and I am here for good.

We stopped at a little pull out and looked at the view. As I was taking this picture, a nice little old lady was doing her best to get back in her van, although it was OUR van. You can see Jared watching her with a giggle as she realized her mistake. Cute.

How did she miss the pillows, blankets, spilled cheetos, chips, licorice and electronics splattered all over our van?

Mollenhauers Cabin

Our first event was a family game of scrabble. With the recent explosion of "Words with Friends" on our itouches and our kids playing it, it was a solid choice.

Next was "Harry and the Hendersons"While the boys watched the movie, me and Ry made our favorite cookies!

We all snuggled up in the loft. Ry wanted to be near her brothers, but moved back and forth from mom to the boys until she finally zonked out next to me.
THE BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS!Hello! Can we say junk food?? Only on holiday, right?
Okay we actually did eat somewhat healthy.
Venturing behind the cabin on a morning walk

Cole stole my camera while Jared and I crawled underneath the barbed wire fence. He thought it was funny to catch us in our struggle, and Jared's saggy butt after losing 30 lbs. He was laughing so hard.

Scary Fall

2011-07-23T23:29:00.000-07:00

After a morning walk at Fools Hollow we walked up to the playground and let the kids explore and play. Carter was doing a great job on the monkey bars. After he got off, he stood on the top bar (below). His foot slipped and he fell straight on his back on to the top bar and then straight down in the wood chips below. Youch!!! He had the wind knocked out of him and he really struggled to breathe for a while.

I thought for sure had broken a rib or something. He was in pain for quite a while.After about 30 minutes he was doing WAY better and eating lunch.Phew!! I was so glad he was okay.
Pre-Injury FunMe and Dad decided to see if we could make it down the tight little tube slide.Yep, sort of! The kids really enjoyed laughing at us going down and helping us get out.

Fools Hollow

2011-06-25T22:03:00.000-07:00

This summer we planned a couple mini vacations around the valley. This one was near Show Low. We spent three days in our brother-in-law's family's cabin in Pinedale. We spent one evening at Fools Hollow Lake. We had attempted the visit earlier in the day and had a picnic but it was hot and Carter ended up getting hurt pretty good. We thought he broke a rib. He fell backwards from monkey bars and landed on his back on a low laying bar that you would step on to reach the bars. Poor kid. He got better throughout the day and we returned to "swim". The kids mostly threw rocks into the lake and looked for crawdads. It was the only time Jared and I got to actually sit down and relax. It felt so good. In the distance we watched the smoke clouds rising from the fire in Greer. Scary stuff. Felt so good to just be with the family.

Sister was undressed within minutes.

Jared kept throwing in rocks and scaring Will into thinking there was a huge fish nearby. He caught on eventually.

One seriously messy face.

Nice throw baby girl

We had a few visitors who scared Ry a bit. They nipped at her fingers while she tried to feed them some bread.

A Little Vandalism

2011-06-20T14:59:00.000-07:00

While venturing into the woods with the boys and hiking along a stream, we found the perfect swimming hole (pics soon), i spotted this tree smothered with lovers names etched into it. I felt a bit guilty, but not for long and proceeded to mark our own little spot on the tree. After all, we will be back and it will be fun to see it for years to come.

Morning of Super Heroes

2011-06-20T00:03:00.000-07:00

I love having my boys home during the summer. Their little adventures, forts and ideas are so fun to watch unfold. This morning was all about super heroes.

And my little bambino Tegan who I watch everyday is growing up so fast!! She was close to walking!

Father's Day Creativity

2011-06-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

This is what a little Arizona summer heat mixed with boredom created. A family tree made with a magnifying glass, leaves and some bark. I loved my boy's creativity with this.

The Wash with Friends

2011-06-11T21:48:00.000-07:00

My photog friends all met me down at the wash near my house and we took pictures of our kids and we also turned our cameras on each other. Mostly Julia though. It was fun to play next to the cornfield and to watch my friend's kids completely destroy their brand new pajamas. It was well worth the pictures! It took Ryann a bit to figure out that the mud was safe and "okay" to play in.

Ryann had never met Julia before, but she just ate her up!

My favorite shot from the night!

Showers before church

2011-06-10T21:38:00.000-07:00

Yeah, not what I expected to see when I went outside one Sunday morning.

I couldn't get mad. Just grabbed my camera. Nothing like a good friendly shower.

Boys were still in their pajama bottoms, but sister knew what the occasion called for. The swim suit.

Her "go to" outfit.

LOVED the succession of these next four pictures.

Happy Sunday :)

Will's Amazing Race Party

2011-06-09T20:28:00.000-07:00

Why do I do this to myself? This isn't even my cup of tea, but sometimes I feel bad that it isn't.

I wish I were more talented in the details area, but I do what I can. I really want my kids to feel special and once in a while I try really hard, despite the insanity and chaos that ensues. I guess we just do what we can.

With that said, all Will wanted was his friends to come over and "hang out." I had to do better than that. I needed a bit of organized madness. So I pulled out a few ideas that he could choose from. Amazing Race was the winner.

Clues
Map of neighborhood

The Teams

Feeding "baby food" to their teammates

Moving skittles with straws

Spaghettios (alphabet)They had to find and spell"Happy Birthday Will"

A few acts of serviceChewing 15 pieces of bubblegum and blowing a bubble
First team to make 10 in a row

Presents

Balloons around the ankle chase

Will's cheesecake. He always wants the cheesecake!Love you Ev. You are an amazing kid.

Mom's S Bomb

2011-06-08T22:29:00.000-07:00

Well... I'm finally paying for it. My boys made a deal with me. Every time I drop the "S" bomb, I owe them each a dollar. I personally think it's a little unfair and have tried to talk them down to a dollar TOTAL. But dad disagrees. Maybe he's right. It's probably better motivation.
My 3 downfalls:
SPORTS, BEING SCARED AND GETTING HURT.

Well as we were having this little conversation one morning at breakfast and how much I owe the boys so far...

ok wait...

this wasn't all due to my lousy mouth. Some of it was dares from Jared.

Anyway... I had just told Carter to come back and sit down at the table and finish eating.
Well Ryann follows up with,

"SIT!"

And along with her cute little accent, it sounded, well.. just like her momma.

And dad says, "YEP, THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID!"

We were rolling on the floor.

Moving on and mourning

2011-06-06T22:04:00.000-07:00

She's growing so fast. Each day brings more and more, "No! I do its." I feel like I'm slowly... little by little letting go of my baby and entering into Big Girl Ryann stage. I'm in a bit of mourning. She moved into the big girl bed and she's staying in it. She's demanding she dress herself. Maybe this is why I take so many pictures of her. I'm trying so hard to capture this stage in her life before it goes flying by.

She means the world to me and I always want to be the world to her... but I know this isn't the way it goes. I just need her to know how crazy-in-love with her I am and how happy I am to be her mom.

She will understand one day when she's a mommy herself. I just don't think heaven will be perfect without being a mom. I'm so thankful to know that we will still be a family.

Still struggle with "hair." Ha, ha. At least I'm trying.I love being a girl mom.Never believed I would.

I'm awesome with nail polish. Evidence.

Happy dirty feet

I want her to love music as much as I do. I can't put into words what it does to me.

Round 2 with Ethyn

2011-06-05T21:44:00.000-07:00

Since the last round of craziness... every time Ethyn comes over now, it's cushions off!

"Ka-tee? Can we take these off and jump?

(insert darling smile)

I can't resist my little buddy's requests

He knows I love him

And he is oh so cute with Ry

Cortina Teachers

2011-06-04T20:27:00.000-07:00

MRS. SUMMERS

1st Grade, Cortina

This was her first year teaching. Carter really loved her. She started the year out as Mrs. Roberts, but was married a few months before the year was out. It took her class a while to catch on. She did a great job!

CARTER'S CONCERTThey sang:"Ladybug Picnic""Daddy's taking us to the Zoo Tomorrow"and"Bees"
MRS. KORSMO3rd Grade, CortinaWe got Mrs. Korsmo a few weeks into school. She was a new teacher and recruited a new class. We really loved her.She was a 6th grade teacher in Utah. She loved the class and they loved her back. Somehow she got the kids to believe they were the best class in the district and the smartest. You can't help love your teacher when they love you!
"Daniel Boone" bottle project.
MRS. WADDELL5th Grade TeacherI'm sad we didn't get a picture of her with Cole this night. She was AMAZING with her class.I wish he could have her every year. I highly, highly recommend her. Especially if you want your child pushed. Cole also won 3rd place in the writing contest and won a book.

Memorial Friends

2011-06-04T19:49:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while our old friends come in to town and we love it when they get to stay with us.

Our kids LOVE being together and they get along SO well. I want them all for my own! They have 3 boys and one girl like us. You would never know there are 8 kids running around. Cora has always been my future daughter-in-law. They are still super cute together. I was happy to watch from a distance as Cole still interacted with her and was still his silly self and even though as they get older it can get more awkward, they still played and were still kids. We had to separate Cole and Cora so they would be distant friends and not get too sick of each other. I remember Lynn joking a long time ago about us moving to Colorado so they would be eyeing each other from a distance. But it actually happened the other way around. They moved to Colorado for nursing school and are now back in Arizona, but in Snowflake. We miss them and are so happy when they visit.

Now I've got my eye on little Ez. Him and Ry played pretty great too!

Jonah, Cora, Will, Granger, Cole

Lynn and Ez
I love how boys can make fools of themselves and then laugh at it.Jared's chair folded right out from under him. Bus was there to make sure he was okay.
We swam and barbecued. It was fun.

Ry trying to swim "under" the net. Hee, hee.

Incoming!!

Those juicy red lips. I just want to kiss them!

When their shirts come off, so does hers.

2011-06-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

These boys know that when they go outside, she's comin' too.

"FIVE MINUTES MOM!"

"Okay," I say.

1 hr later they are still playing hard.

It's getting hotter here and the shirts have definitely started coming off.

I can't keep clothes on her much lately. She's either in her swim suit, some strange concoction, her shirt is off or she's in a plain old diaper. But she is happy and the boys still love the idea of "Ryann."

And after she DOES get off, the play fighting begins.It never ends well.My poor neighbors.

Mother's Day Date

2011-06-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

After 12 years of marriage, I think he's catching on. Jokes have been made throughout the years with my girlfriends how Mother's Day is always the worst day of the year due to expectations.

All us ladies REALLY want on that day is to do nothing, have a clean house and sweet notes from our loved ones. At least that's all I want. It doesn't have to be a big production.

Last year I decided I needed to drop the expectations and treat it like a regular day and it would probably end up being just fine! Well I shot a wedding all Saturday in the hot sun and by nighttime I was exhausted. Jared already had our little date planned and a sitter squared away. We met up at Sauce and he told me to order for the both of us (which never really happened). I like him too much so I let him pick his. LOL. The food was fabulous. I found this little note on the table that had a spreadsheet of our "envelope" system (finances) and in my envelope (her spending) was a little chunk of change for me to spend and a little note written to me on the side. It was too cute. I would have taken a picture, but it had food all over it. He told me we were going to go shopping. My legs were so tired, but we ended up in Target for a short while and I found a cute shirt. Happy Mother's Day to me!

And of course, I requested we stop at my favorite place for dessert. BUT... I was very sad to find out it was under new management. My favorite "mix" was taken from the menu and the new manager lady was sitting there watching all of her employees like a hawk. It reminded me of my waitressing days where my boss would sit and stare at us and would put cameras up. WHO likes to be micromanaged? HELLO???? NOBODY. Even as the little cute teenage boy brought us our ice cream, she stopped him and told him right in front of us, "That's too much. A little less next time." Well... I'm done with that place sadly. It was a little night of mourning on the side.I WILL MISS YOU HAWAIIAN DELIGHT!

Kami's Party

2011-06-01T23:14:00.000-07:00

I believe this was Ryann's first official birthday party. I worried about how she would react when she had to give the present away and if she would be a big girl. She was very excited the day Kami gave her the invitation to her party. I found Ryann sleeping with it, carrying it around and bringing it in the car with her. I don't quite know what she thought she was holding, but she definitely knew it was something special when Kami handed it to her. Plus... it was pink and beautiful.

It started with a warm welcoming hug from Kami as she held her hand and guided her into the party.

THE CUTE DECORATIONS

I'm going to hire my sis-in-law for my next birthday party.

She always makes super fun-adorable cakes!

THE GUESTS

THE DRESS UPS

FOLLOWED BY DANCE PARTY

PRESENTSCould Kami be any cuter with her level of excitement?
BALLOON SEND OFFMAKE A WISH! LOVE IT.

NAIL PAINTING

AND STORIES!

TREAT BAG**Mine looks awesome**This is why I can really appreciate other's talents!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAMMERS!! WE LOVE YOU!!

Easter

2011-05-30T14:50:00.000-07:00

The Decorating

Super Pickle!

Easter Morning Hunt It all made more sense once Ryann understood we were looking for "blues clues." This is her "aha moment"

The rewards

Daddy re-hiding eggs over and over throughout the week And his sweet reward

Caulitaters

2011-05-30T14:36:00.000-07:00

It seems like my kids are getting pickier about the foods they eat. Especially when it comes to vegetables. I keep trying to convince them that their taste buds will change and they WILL eventually like vegetables. So with the help of a friend of mine, I played a little trick and hoped that it would work. And... it did!

Carter's taste test.

Will was the first one to taste them. He just figured I was making mashed potatoes and he kept running by, spooning out big mouthfuls and continue running through the kitchen. After his third bite, I just stared at him, waiting for him to realize what I had done, but nope! Just happily skipped off. I finally called him back in and asked him how he like them, which made him second guess my intentions. He said, "Why? They're really good!" And that's when I whipped out my happy dance!
Hello mashed cauliflower!

Mommy, I drive?

2011-05-30T14:20:00.000-07:00

As I drove down our dark street one night, coming home from a long day, Ryann asked, "Mommy, I drive?" I was feeling pretty open to that, so I pulled over at the park near our house, hoisted her up into my lap. She squealed with excitement and I'm not quite sure she believed this was really going to happen. I stepped on the gas and that girl was driving. She got a bit crazy at times, but as we slid between cars parked on the sides of the road, I would slide my hand under where she couldn't see that I was helping. I was feeling pretty generous, so I took her on a longer jaunt around our little circle of a neighborhood. I think she was pretty impressed with herself.

Well little did I know that this would create a small problem each and every time I got in the car from that day on. "MOMMY I DRIVE!" And she would cry, and cry, and cry all the way to our destination. So I would have to gently calm her down and tell her she has to be sixteen! I'm still not sure she has grasped how far away that number is, but at least now she asks politely, "I sixteen?" "No, love. Not yet."

I must admit on my more peaceful nights, I still let her slip out of her car seat and drive down our street just so I can feel her soft little legs and smell her sweet hair.

And I'm so glad she isn't sixteen yet.

And for now, her friend Karin will be in charge of driving. She seems pretty capable.

She even stopped to make sure they had enough gas

And to make sure they're both buckled in tight!

Library

2011-05-22T23:34:00.000-07:00

Something Ryann and I love to do together is go to the library.

There's just something to the routine that makes her happy and feel so big.

I want her to love books like her daddy.

She gets many requests from other patrons for her to return their books for them.I love it when older people are kind and join in on supporting her routine and cheer her on.

She does it so well

I am still trying to teach that the library is a quiet place. No screaming.

The stool is key to a successful check out and she's got it down.

And every library visit ends with her driving this thing outside.

i totally rock

2011-05-22T23:11:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the new cartoon Bubble Guppies?

Well there is an episode where they have to sing to get across a bridge. They sing, "We totally rock"

So the other night Ry busted out our guitar hero guitars and came in... rocking away

singing, "I totally rock!" Eyes shut and all.

I even have it on video jumping on the bed.

**Even better, she pulled out a shirt of mine from when I was her age and begged to wear it.**

Totally sweet get up.

happy hunting

2011-05-22T23:00:00.000-07:00

I love random meetings at the park. Good friends, scattered and shared lunches, messy faces and a spontaneous egg hunt.

We hid eggs over and over during easter this year. Ryann couldn't stop.

Every day since... she has grabbed her basket, begging to go hunt down more eggs.

And daddy obliged over and over . . . hiding them throughout the house while mom is making dinner, instead of her pulling at my apron strings crying for this and that. I think she is hooked.

a little therapy

2011-05-22T22:53:00.000-07:00

My friend is an amazing therapist who works with children.

I am always amazed at the resilience of some children in this world.

While I realize that the challenges my children will face can only make them stronger... for now I just want to hold them and make their world a safe, healthy and happy place. It reminds me of the country song, "Let them be little."

I want my kids to be little for a good while yet.

   So me and ry visited Julie's office to see what she does and to take pictures.
And Julie made a note of reassuring me that she wasn't "analyzing" Ry.Haha!

Dress ups   Trying to dive into the water.

Love her imagination

And I am happy to report... that she is still little, healthy, happy... and oh so good.

Ward Easter Breakfast

2011-05-22T21:23:00.000-07:00

With the disappearance of an activities committee, the Sunday School Presidency was put in charge of the ward breakfast. If you know Jared at all... it's breakfast burritos all the way! So his plan was to get there 15 minutes prior and get things going. I laughed so hard... so hard. So yeah, the primary chorister took over the planning. But he still got to do the cooking.

Some good folks

She loves her daddy's burritos!

Some of my primary buddies. They were being so cute.

The Easter Egg Hunt Madness

Here is Ryann attempting to steal from a mom's basketThis field was cleared of eggs in minutes.The weather couldn't have been sweeter.

chocolate face

2011-05-01T12:25:00.000-07:00

I remember my mom telling me how her friend would lick her children's face after eating.I just imagined the ketchup, mustard, boogers etc. It made me gag. LOL.Now chocolate icing... Yeah, still no desire here for licking her face.

Carter's all about the cake. Ry's all about the icing!

Fellow Photogs

2011-04-30T12:23:00.000-07:00

I met Sarah at LA Fitness one day while we were in the kids care. I started talking to her because first of all, she looked familiar, but she also had a photoshop book in her hands. We started chatting about photography and she mentioned getting together sometime. I'm used to people suggesting things like that but never really meaning it and never following through. And to be honest it has always felt like photographers are snooty and don't want to share anything with each other. (Ahem, certain camera stores even) Well Sarah was neither of those things. We have exchanged photo shoots, shared our frustrations, worries and questions with each other. I love that about her. Recently she suggested we get together with other photographers and shoot, chat and discuss photography. This was our first meeting.

A random guy came flying by on his rollerblades. A lawyer in fact. I bugged him to let me shoot some pics of him going super fast. I don't know why. It just made me laugh. I want to do more random, spontaneous things and get out of my comfort zone. Just asking him was a big deal for me.

Some fun camera accessories!

temple grounds

2011-04-28T22:57:00.000-07:00

A little miracle happened one Saturday in April. We had nowhere to be!

It was beautiful and cold outside so we took off to the temple to see a new display of artwork. I was so sad. The display was shut down due to the pageant. I couldn't believe how much my kids just loved hanging out on the temple grounds. They made up games, explored and founds lots to do. There's something about just being on the grounds. Maybe it's because it's the Lord's. It's always so peaceful and just so good.

Homemade tunnels and a spanking machine

Flowers

Water . . . of course! Always an attraction.

A little friend

A goose bump from running down the ramp too fast.And a kiss and a love from dad to make it all better.

Her brothers forgetting about their friend to check out her injury.

They are adorable with her.

Cole practicing his photography skillz

And Will too

The visitors center.

If you haven't attended the easter pageant in Mesa. You should. It is free and it is beautiful. You can bring a blanket, picnic and your friends!Learn more here

uncle lance

2011-04-27T23:00:00.000-07:00

Em's husband Lance graduated Chiropractic school a few months ago and he had an open house for his new office! We got to tour his office and visit with family and friends!
Learn more about him here

Love the welcoming hug from her cuzzies
The kids had to try out the tables.
Dr. Ryann handed out treats for good behavior after their check ups.

And we ate the goodies too

Aunt Alli, you did amazing.

And then we tried out all of the equipmentSeemed to work great.

**This was the funniest**I could see my brother-in-laws cracking up as I walked down the hallway.Ryann was on the roller. She sat so still as her whole body rolled back and forth.
Not sure why he's giving me crusties... maybe it's just because he's so hard core.Love that face.

I spy

2011-04-27T14:56:00.000-07:00

I love catching them in these little sweet moments.

Cheers to our snack!

Big Girl Shower

2011-04-26T22:12:00.000-07:00

My big girl in mommy's shower. Some days she'll stay in there for 20 minutes while I do my hair and make up. Mostly she just stands there with her back to the water.

And of course, after the shower, a random guitar jam session. I don't know where she gets this from, but it's dang funny.

Swimming in the driveway

2011-04-23T16:27:00.000-07:00

Our second official "swim" of the season. Our neighbor Erin invited Ry to come swim with her daughter. She had so much fun. I have loved getting to know Erin. She is an amazing mom and has been through so much. She is also a photographer, so it's fun to chat about our lives as "photographer moms" and snapping away at their cute little faces.

Ry loved watering their flowers!

Ry Art

2011-04-23T16:21:00.000-07:00

One morning I caught Ryann doodling.. and as she doodled, she named each thing she drew.

I love it!!

Photo Project

2011-04-23T16:18:00.000-07:00

So I joined this photo project along with 300 other photographers. Each week we have an assignment.

We are several weeks into this thing and I STILL haven't posted any of my pictures. Many assignments

have been self portraits. If you know me AT ALL... you know how much I love attention on me! Not.

So I've really struggled. This week I thought I'd sneak around HAVING to be in the picture and draw what I wanted to capture. The assignment was to take a picture of how you are feeling at this time in your life. And here it is...

And my attempt to capture this for real.
And embarrassing as it is. A selfie. So uncreative, but I have to figure out my timer without a remote! I think I will start posting my assignments here for now...the ones I actually complete that is.

Loving my island

2011-04-22T18:07:00.000-07:00

This is "the island"It is the part of our community ripped apart by a fast road cutting us off from the rest of our development. But over the past year, many good, good people have moved in and joined us here! Our island has become a little safe haven for my kids after school. I feel like they have been given the chance to play as we did as kids. I know every kid, nearly every adult and we all watch out for each other. Even a cop lives across from the park and we all secretly love him for being there. He has been known to honk his horn at kids if they are alone and if some random stranger is walking around on our island (usually creepy salesmen) . . we all know about it. Love it!! A few weeks ago we shared our island with our cousins and brought our lunches!

Syd and her chocolate dessert. Hee hee.

Kami coming to the rescue for Ry... What a sweet cuz.

The girls. I love it when they are together. They are so fun.

Teen preview, flag football and the "shake down"

2011-04-22T17:53:00.000-07:00

My girl thinks she's sooo big. I caught her in a very serious conversation with her friend elmo.

I just picture her talking with her friends as a teenager.

"Sup girlfriend?"

"Oh I know. He is so cute."
"Did he really say that about me?"

"Like. . . yeah."

"Uh huh. Keep talkin sis."

Oh I love her. It scares me to think that there will be a day where she won't beg me to hold her all day or squeal "Mommy!!" the second I walk into the room. She is my little buddy and I can't kiss on her enough. My friend told me the other day that her daughter pretty much doesn't want anything to do with her and is barely 12. Oh man. Time goes too fast.

And my Will... His first flag football game. He was lookin' super tough. Maybe it's the mouthguard.Speaking of growing up too fast. Whew~ These boys after some running around... they are little "men"Our water bill has gone way up this past year!

And Carter . . . he's tough too. check him out.

I ran into my missionary companion at the game and Ry got to play with her puppy.
Love them together

Normally when daddy is on his way home, there is a "shake down". This is the 15 minutes before your husband walks in the door where the house is a disaster and it appears as if we've done nothing all day. Well it's amazing how much we women can do in 15 minutes before he arrives.
However, when dad's are in charge. . . there ain't no shake down. In fact a tornado may have just as well hit the inside of your house. One piece of evidence.