theluvofamother

The great Salt Lake!

2010-09-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

Did you know you can float! Really this is Brooke floating. And It is WARM!
This is us who didn't go in the water, well, those of us who didn't STAY in the water. Rebecca and Sarah did go in for a little while. I not so much nor Kimberly. But what you don't see is that the ground is COVERED in little flies. I mean COVERED. Sarah was NOT fond of this fact and cried the whole time she was sitting there.
This is up at the visitor's center.
This is Autumn floating. The water is over her head deep. She could also float sitting up, but was to hard to stay that way.
Antelope Island where we went is also called buffalo island, where they let buffalo graze. And have these metal buffalo all over the island.
We were able to go to the great Salt Lake. It was an experience!

That time of year! School

2010-08-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

School time is always bittersweet. But without further adue, here are their first day picts.
Autumn going into 7th grade. So cute! Autumn comes home exhausted at the end of the day. She is in Jr. High and still on the shorter side, unluckly, so she has a hard time seeing where she's going when the whole school is in the hallways. But is taking french and is very excited about that!
Spencer going into 1st grade. I love his pants, I had to talk him into letting me buy them for him, he doesn't care about style. He knows his teacher's name, and thinks school is fun! Last year he never got the teachers name down correctly. His mom is excited!
Brooke is going into 5th grade. She has a snake as a class pet. She isn't so sure about it. And ALL things written in class, or handed in as homework has to be made in cursive. She is NOT excited for that at all! But does love school

Things I'm learning about Kimberly

2010-08-30T17:47:00.000-07:00

She smiles A LOT
She love to have her hands up by her face
She makes soothing happy sounds when she's happy.
She is more awake lately
she can sleep through all the noise our family is
Her eyes are clearing up
she can focus on me for a long time.
She does not like to be patted on her bum repetatively, it' make her jerk

Introducing Kimberly

2010-08-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

Kimberly Marie

Born August 10
Weighed 7lb 7oz
measured 19 inches
She is easy and wonderful little girl.
Dark hair, and Dark skin

These pictures were taken by my brother Carson, I am so grateful for his services.

I'm a super softy!

2010-07-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it's a good thing or not. But I am definitely treating my 5th child WAY different than my first. my husband commented the other night that not only is she spoiled by me but also the other kids in the family. She cries longer in her bed at nap time, because every one goes in there and tries to console her, not a good practice, but when she is so darn cute it is so darn hard to not go and hug her and have her snuggle into my neck as you are saving her from uncertain terrible fate. . . . a nap.

Last night I even let her sleep in my room on my couch, because she would wake up in the nite and cry and I didn't want to trek all the way across the hall and pick her up. Instead just 1 step to my couch.

I still feed her the majority of her meals. She's 1 1/2 and still gets spoon fed. Oh, my, I'm just saying out loud, I know she's spoiled, but really how much can it REALLY hurt. She will grow up soon enough. It's not only me, her daddy is her first word when she wants to get out of something like throwing her diaper away, and he swoops her up and carries her and the diaper to the garbage. She's got us all to her beck-and-call! That's not so bad is it?

End of may happenings.

2010-06-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

This post's for Mark

2010-02-14T22:18:00.001-08:00

I haven't blogged in a decade it seems.

But yesterday as we were walking into a building he said, this is something to blog about or no one would believe we came here.

So, where did we go you ask?

I'll start at the beginning.

I have been a closet Utah Jazz fan for over a decade! I will watch a game if it's on and no one else is too terribly interested in another tv show. Which is rarely. The other night Mark came into the room while I was watching a particularly sad game . . . when they played against the Lakers. It was their first loss in 8 games. He sat down and watched a little while. He couldn't help but tease and talk as if he'd never seen a basketball game EVER! So, I'll talked to him a little about the whole "game".

Then I tell him in a different life I would LOVE to be a referee for a high pressure game. (I use to ref. for college games on the side while I was going to college, nothing big or anything). He couldn't believe that.

So the next day, he calls me from work laughing, couldn't get out the sentence he was laughing so much. Finally asks me if I want to go to a BYU basketball game. I said with who? I was sure it wasn't with him. Afterall, he is NOT a sports guy. He said him of course. As my valentine gift. I said of course. . . . he then says where do you want to sit? I promptly said NOT in the student section, I don't want to have to paint my face blue and stand and cheer the whole game. Suprised I had any clue what that all meant, he bought the tickets.

So, Sat night. we walk into the Marriot center for the basketball game. I loved every minute of it. Even Mark saying "what just happened" a couple of times and "why is everyone cheering" a few other times. it was great.

like Mark says no one would believe I got my wife basketball tickets for valentine's day. It was a great game, I forgot how much I love a live game, and being able to watch all the dynamics they don't capture on the tv.

A great Valentine's day gift overall!

What do you think my chances of going to an actual Jazz game is? I think I would be shaking the whole first half!

Rebecca's adventure

2009-12-17T19:29:00.001-08:00

Little Rebecca broke her arm. . . This is them taking her x-rays.

This is her ATTITUDE lately. First the picture is of the outfits I made the kids for Christmas at church, and well, Whenever Rebecca doesn't want something lately she is GRUMPY, the broken arm just pushed her grumpiness over the edge!

This is her right after she got her cast put on.

These are the x-rays of her arm she broke.

Thanksgiving pt. 3

2009-12-17T19:20:00.001-08:00

They dug a hole the same depth as Sarah is tall. This is a half way pict.

There was a BEAUTIFUL sunset! I loved seeing a good sunset in a LONG time! We live in the mountains so I don't get to see one very often.

Finding Topaz in the rocks.

Building a fire for the mini campers.

Drinking hot cocoa by the fire.

Thanksgiving pt. 2

2009-12-17T19:09:00.001-08:00

We were camping IN-THE-MIDDLE-OF-NOWHERE! We didn't see another person in 50 miles! Mark feels the upside was. . . he could test out all his newest contraptions that he is working on.

Brooke had her mini camping trip and took probably 30 pictures of the friends. She had her barbies do EVERYTHING. Eat, cook marshmellows, build a campfire. All of it!

This is another picture of the hotsprings. it was really fun.

Us driving in the middle of nowhere looking for Topaz mountain. Like it was a desert and FLAT! It was really fun. I loved being just our family.

After it got dark, we started singing Christmas carols together. Autumn the ever organizer, keeping us on track for whatever we do. Keeping lists.

our Thanksgiving at Topaz Mtn.

2009-12-17T19:00:00.000-08:00

We stopped at a hotsprings. It was soooo HOOOT! But we were so cold, so it was great!

This is Rebecca trying to wake up. She didn't sleep the best. . . none of use did, man it was COLD, and all 3 of our heating systems failed. We did make it through, not my favorite camping night, but it was FUUUN other than that.

Rebeccca feeling much better.

Autumn not wanting me to take her picture because she didn't have her hair done. . . As beautiful as can be!

Brooke was having a GREAT time. she found Topaz in the rocks. . . and had a great time outside the whole time!

My boy goes to school.

2009-11-08T17:08:00.000-08:00

While we were at church today Spencer drew some pictures. I Just love them! The first one is of his family. (Oh my look at how many people!) Everyone has a smile and a hat on he was telling Sarah.

The second one is of Spencer and Dad when they are robots.

I love his little drawings. They are so darn cute!

Another Scrapbook page

2009-10-27T00:40:00.001-07:00

This is my not being able to sleep tonight project. It just looks so cute!

My latest little cutie pie!

2009-10-26T10:42:00.001-07:00

My dream, but never thought there was a possibilty!!!!!

2009-08-27T11:01:00.000-07:00

Yes. This is. I do go bike riding about 5 times a week. This is a true beauty. I just can't imagine the possibilities. THere is a contest, so, I am going to start promoting! I want this.

So click on the picture of the cute bike and begin to dream and maybe you can enter he contest to!!!!

Sunday and Wednesday

2009-07-22T23:35:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Marks ring. He got it from his mom when we were back home it is the ring his grandfather wore. It is the letter B for Blount his mom's maiden name. I think it looks great. I really like it.

This was at dinner, she got Watermelon for dessert, and sat on the shelf looking out the window eating it. So cute!

This is Rebeccas new trick! She can pull herself up to standing! I can't believe it!

I took a pict. of each kid before we loaded into the van, they are all so cute!

Sarah's got these cute glitter stars barrettes that she loves to wear. i love them to!

Sarah also wanted me to take a pict of her shoes for gwamma to see that she loves her red shiney shoes.

These are my toes that I love also. i got my first pedicure while I was home in Spokane, I just love them!

Mark has reminded me that I often take pictures of him sleeping. This is him just before we left the house to get in the van.

If you can't sleep. . . . by all means, blog

2009-06-13T02:25:00.001-07:00

I guess I'll do a little update. I was cleaning out the bottom of my dishwasher today, you know where the trap of all the grime goes. I decided to just grab it all, and throw it away, no, take the time to get the shopvac out etc. and well, I'm now regretting it. Because apparently there was a broken plate in amongst the grime, and well my fingertips are taking the brunt of it. And well, typing isn't my favorite thing to do.

But I will trudge forward.

Rebecca is to the point where she can roll and turn herself every which way. She is a tummy sleeper, and does everything else on her stomach also. She can inchworm herself wherever she wants to be. She has no interest in sitting up, just rocking back and forth in the effort to get on all fours. She is a spoiled little one. I had to tell the kids several times today, stop picking up Rebecca, she needs to learn how to be happy without being held. I just lay her down to fall asleep, and next thing I know she's being played with! I guess it's a good problem to have. She is loved!

And this little girl Miss Sarah well, she is absolutely funny! She cracks me up! She has 3 sayings that she repeats OFTEN!

1. "Mom, I hate this van" Everytime we are driving around, she says this at least 10 times. If you ask her why she has no real answer, but she is sure about hating the van.

2. Everyday we go on a walk, and she and Rebecca ride in the stroller, well, she says the entire 30 min walk, "are we going on a walk" My response when I do respond is "yes we are" and her response is "are you wearing your walking shoes" I say "yes I am".

3. If she doesn't want to do something like throw a diaper away, or put her shoes away, whatever it is she doesn't want to do "I can't want to" I think she is learning early that she can pretend like it's to hard and her siblings will jump to it and do it for her. I am thinking at some point it will get old. But right now she's nursing it for all it's worth.

She points out EVERY school bus she can see. I am amazed at how many there are in a normal day of going about the town. She sees them everywhere, and we aren't even in school, we are on summer break! But she can find them I tell you!

She also wants to match her clothes to anyone elses. And Autumn is all to eager to go along. They are trying to match everything they wear. It's amazing how many clothes they have in common, black pants, pink shirt is the most common one.

Did you know I have a son who's starting kindergarten in the fall, I am not to eager for that to happen. He's ready, I'm just not. Isn't that how it always goes.

Brooke is so fun. She loves playing games. SHe is always got on at the ready anytime there is a lull in the conversation. She is so willing to play just as much as you are willing. She and I do cat's cradle lately. I forget how addicting it is and how much one can pass the time by playin it.

Autumn got an amish friendship bread starter and followed it through the 10 days and made the bread at the end. It was delisious. She loved having to take care of it every day. I sometimes dread getting them, because I don't want the obligation. But she loved it. And of course we all loved the rewards. It was gone in a day. It was really yummy!

Hmmm, well that's all I can think of. . .
Oh, my camera got dropped, and it's broken . . . DREAD! I will have to see if it can be fixed locally if not, I will have to send it back to canon. Oh, to be without it, I wont know what to do. So, keep your fingers crossed!

Be grateful we don't have picts this week.

2009-06-04T12:11:00.000-07:00

Our family really knows how to do sick!

This week has been quite horrible!
Everyone except Dad and Brooke have been sick.

Mom has had hives from scalp to toe and very painful besides the feeling IIIIICCHHHYYYYYY! Like no other

the rest of the family have had the puke and other end stuff ! Even little Rebecca! Sarah's first experience with puking. She kept trying to talk thru the puking. Saying "what is this momma" Very sad!

Besides lots of rest and staying home. It is no way to spend our first week of summer vacation. But I am so glad I haven't had to get kids up and ready for school. Whew that would have been horrible!

So, you are very glad we have not given any pictures this week, our house is a wreck, and plenty of tired kids. I think I am past asking the kids "are you gonna puke?" Every 5 min.

I am grateful Mark wasn't sick he has held us together. He has had to work, so he comes home and plays nurse to all that aren't able to get up to get whatever they need. He has been amazing!

We are over the worst part I am sure. Mostly because I can be a contributor. I still have hives but I can at least ignore them enough to help the family manage. Spencer is still tired and taking naps which is not normal, and Sarah has worn the same shorts for 2 days and said this morning. . ."mom, can I change these shorts these ones are getting boring"

So I think we are on the mend, the dishes are all bleached and cleaned, laundry just need folded and a clean up of all the bedrooms and we are back in business. Let the summer begin, and don't you dare get sick!

continued

2009-05-24T22:12:00.000-07:00

This is my nature girl's hand Brookey bear.

I don't know if this is Sarah's or Spencer's hand, they both held these snails we found.

CRAZY KIDS!!! and DADDY!!!!

Can you see how comfortable and balanced she is on this fence? She is into brown now. She loves it!

Apparently I didn't take pictures well of Sarah's this outing. Whoops. she was there, and her true cute self.

A little update.

2009-05-24T22:01:00.001-07:00

We went on a drive today. We were able to really get away and get a chance to see what is happening in the world.

We went camping. And the kids were able to eat dinner on top of the motorhome. I love it. I sometimes could stay out there my whole life.

This is my little beauty.

Who is this little number 5. She is so huggable!

This little boy. Is so fun! He is going to kindergarten next year! Can you believe it?

2 more kids to add the updates for. Next post.

A video of Sarah

2009-05-13T19:06:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to upload some videos to this blog using blogger, and it's just plain stunk! I stop waiting after 2 hrs. because it doesn't upload! so I used youtube to upload it uploaded in like 10 min. so, here's the link

click on Sarah Singing

I hope it works. Just let me know what you think? Is it easy to see? TIA!

My little angel girl

2009-05-13T14:21:00.000-07:00

I just realized I didn't post Easter picts.

2009-04-30T19:50:00.000-07:00

My kids love doing funny faces!

This pict. is after church, so you know how cooperative they really were.

These are 2 of my girls. Spencer insisted on the cammo baby leg warmers.

This is one of my favorite pictures of her. There is pure beauty and sunshine on her!

These are for grandma and grandpa

2009-04-30T19:43:00.001-07:00

I had Autumn take the pictures while I was holding her sitting on the kitchen table.

She went to the dr. on Friday, she is 4 mo. she weighs 12lb 14 oz.

She is doing great. She loves to have you say "boo" to her and she giggles out loud! She loves to hold on to a toy. Her favorite is a butterfly. She does not like her tummy, so she can now roll from her stomach to her back with lots of effort put into it. She is always always smiling. Everyone that sees her says wow! She smiles! She loves to be held by Sarah, they are 2 little pals. She still sucks her middle and ring finger on her right hand when she is tired and hungry. She loves to be wrapped tight in a blanket and patten on the bum to go to sleep.

We love her a lot and she is so happy all the time!

I'm passing along 2 web sites I think are the tops!

2009-04-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

http://www.utahpreppers.com/

this one is on preparedness and I have really thought they have stepped it up since the swine flu has become apparent.

http://foodstoragemadeeasy.net/

This one is a GREAT resource for food storage thoughts. They have a whole program if you are interested! It's great.

What we've been up to part 3

2009-04-12T20:49:00.001-07:00

These are the things I've been sewing.

A blanket for RR

A changing pad with a pocket for diaper and wipes.

This is it wrapped up.

This is RR with her fingers in her mouth.

This is another blanket I made for her.

This is Spencer's art work on my bedroom wall.

What we've been up to part 2

2009-04-12T20:35:00.001-07:00

Spencer's most recent pict.

Sarah's Picture

Rebecca's Picture

Rebecca smiling.

Group pict!

Brookey's picture

Autumn's pict.

What we've been up to.

2009-04-12T20:25:00.001-07:00

Brookey's joined soccer. Here she is playing goalie! She stopped the ball the first time she played goalie. A good player and sport!

Our girls have been reading in a new program, this is their reward. They watched their principal eat fried worms. They cooked them and ate them in front of the students! He was on the local news. Pretty big deal!

This is Rebecca with her blessing dress on. She is so darn cute!

Some good advise for Food Storage guys out there.

2009-04-07T15:31:00.000-07:00

I would let you know that his blog is one of the best easy ways to get your food storage under control. I am here to tell you. I love it! I go here probably every day. I also use their discussion board to ask questions. There is everything you need to know to begin getting a successful and sustainable food storage. If you have questions about the binder, just click on the link above. It is very worth it.

I thought this didn't start until they were teenagers

2009-04-07T01:18:00.001-07:00

I am the human taxi. I'm not looking forward to it. I might need to re-adjust my thinking, but man, I really don't want to go to another thing the rest of this month, but I start again tomorrow at 7:00 am, and doesn't end till 8:00 pm. Man, I'm already tired and it hasn't started! I just need a good book, but all I want to do is stay at home and sew!

Camera dump

2009-03-23T13:41:00.001-07:00

do you see this baby, she is my little girl. She is already 3 mo. old. She is so fun, happy, cute, smiley. How fun.

We went to the dentist today. Spencer did a great job. No cavaties.
Autumn also went to the dentist. This is her getting x-ray's she got an impression so we can see what the consultation with the orthodontist.
I was able to go to a quilt show. I know this quilt isn't like the most flashy like I usually like, but the pure talent to make this quilt was amazing, it was all done my hand. Amazing.

Spring Cleaning

2009-03-16T23:17:00.000-07:00

I am going to be out for a bit.

Mark is going to be cleaning my carpets on Wed. I am going to try to have every part the carpet I can cleared off to get cleaned. I have a big task in front of me.

We are doing a food storage fair on April 11 th I am on the commitee, I am so excited. If you have any suggestions or questions we can make sure and cover, please comment!

Ok,

2009-03-08T20:31:00.000-07:00

Ok, so it's official, Rebecca has found her voice. She is LOUD-ish. She is so wonderful she smiles and coo's and she has soething to say. How fun is that! It is great.

A picture topic

2009-03-04T14:04:00.000-08:00

This is from a Speed scrap I did last night, I love my new babies in my family, niece and nephews, and my girl! The credits are here

A new blog I like has great photo ideas. Life is Sweet. She had this idea.

OH, "Can you hear me now?" Yeah, I said I love this new blog! She gave me this idea (Cell Phone Bars)

And this is my sweet Rebecca smiling! She is so fun and happy all the time, now she can actually smile about it!

I'm DONE!

2009-02-27T20:29:00.000-08:00

I'm done with it all. YES I did a good job to work on all the stuff I'm suppose to do. But I'm done doing it all. I'm finished with all the things. I just want to go to a movie, or something like that so I don't have to be responsible any more.

My kids are doing good. Except Rebecca, she sure doesn't like the shots she got, she is feeling rather uncomfortable. And I am sick of saying "GO TO BED" to my kids over and over again. I've been doing it for an hour now. I won't but am tempted to tie them all in their beds, and wait till they are asleep before I untie them. Only 10/1000 problems with that, besides against natural love and caring for them. But man, I do not like trying to put my kids to bed alone. Probably one of my biggest weaknesses in mothering.

But we did have a good dinner, beef and carrot asian noodle stirfry, and green drink with ACV in it. Yumm, and least my kids will be healthy.

I am going to sleep in tomorrow, and then work on sharing time. I will be done after this week I am not going to commit to anything else but taking a break from all that I am in charge of!

Ok, today's update

2009-02-25T21:25:00.001-08:00

So it started out making sure all my taxes were compiled for the accountant, having our own business, not my favorite! But it's all ready.

Then took kids to school,
the water was turned off
Took Rebecca to the dr. She did well, she weighs 10lbs. 5 oz. so she's gaining weight well. 4 lbs heavier than birth. She got her shots and was doing good. I have no concerns about this baby, she's doing great. a little reflux periodically, but not much.

Came home took a nap! I was TIRED! Got woken up by a mom in the ward I told I would babysit for her, totally forgot. Good thing I was home, very easy kids to tend, so no problem there. ANd it was only for an hour.

My kids came home, it was great to see them, the weather is so great lately, that my kids drop their backpacks off and go right back outside, they sure love it.

Got everything squared off for Joy School, it's going to be fun tomorrow

Made dessert for Blue and Gold and Mark made a map for the table. (Whew, Mark saved me on that one)

I went to the Blue and Gold, while Mark stayed home and sold a puppy!!!!!! YEAH! My kids are sad, but I'm exstatic! 2 more to go.

I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Not to bad, afterall, tomorrow is Thursday, can't be that bad, the weeks more than have gone!

Clean house and Joy School

2009-02-24T16:18:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I got a bee in my bonnet yesterday and I spring cleaned my kitchen. We were living in such filth that I couldn't stand it any more! It looks much better. However, my forearms are sore from intense scrubbing. Man, it was BAD! But now so much easier to keep clean.

Joy school, Oh what joy! it was so darn fun. I can't wait till Thursday! We had so much fun. I love the curriculum, it's very thought out and 4yo oriented! Very fun.

Just got a flyer from the construction people at the end of the road that our water will be turned off from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm tomorrow! EEKKKK! I guess we need to go somewhere tomorrow during the day that does not cost a dime, not even a penny, any suggestions?

A full week

2009-02-23T11:10:00.000-08:00

Joy school

I am hosting it this week for Spencer's class. It's on spontaneity and ironically it will take me quite a bit of prep time. Since this is my first time teaching, hopefully it will get easier.

blue and gold dinner

I am in charge of a table centerpiece that is about Washington state, hmmm, not sure on that one. And a dessert

2 mo. checkup

For my little girl. She's that old already! I can't believe it. I am curious to see how big she is. She's been sick this week, and not feeling the greatest and eating is not her priority, even though it is mine! I'm glad I get to take her in.

sharing time

Always a dreader until it's prepared then it doesn't seem that hard. Just don't want to prepare for it. I would rather take a nap.

homemade yogurt, oatmeal, granola, asian beef and noodle stirfry

We are really trying to take care of our family in a much healthier way. I made homemade yogurt last night with Keifer starter, in my CROCKPOT!!!! Here's the recipe. It has 10x the amount of probiotics than normal yogurt, and no artificial sweeteners or fat necessary. I sweeten it with fresh fruit! YUM! I had it on my home made steel cut oats. And I have a batch of my well tried and adapted granola recipe from my aunt. It is so darn good! And home made bread, that's on Thursday and for dinner we had the best asian beef and noodle stirfry with brocoli and my own concotion of ginger peanut sauce! I loved it, and suprisingly so did Mark.

sell those darn puppies! Yeah! And then have Mr. Handy clean my carpets and have it be a clean nice place to be. I'm looking forward to THAT one! Whew!

I'll try to update you on how the week goes. I hope to be able to do another speed scrap on Wed. night. We'll have to see and I have some felt that is calling my name. With some really cute fabric that would love to accompany it.

Until later, I have to clean my house!

2 things I know for sure

2009-01-19T17:36:00.000-08:00

1. I make the best lasagna in the world!

2. Autumn makes the best cake in the world!

We were lucky tonight for dinner. We had both!

p.s. I have a 2 1/5 year old that has potty trained EASY! Is that ever a true statement. Well I'll tell you it has been for me!

I've been meaning to do this, I finally did!

2009-01-15T10:00:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to take my camera with me on the way to take the kids to school, and take some pictures of the winter cold around here, it is beautiful!

Saturday

2009-01-10T21:20:00.000-08:00

Here is today's pict. of Rebecca, she seems to be changing so quickly lately. Man, I'm just amazed!

These are my kids doing whatever they can so they don't have to go to bed. . . . they are very cute! Ballet kids.

This is Spencer outside waiting for Autumn and Brooke to get home from school. He loves eating snow! Notice the hat. . . thanks g-ma Lois! We all still love them a whole ton!

Christmas vacation

2009-01-04T16:06:00.000-08:00

Here is Spencer after wearing goggles while swimming.

This is Spencer swimming. Full on bon-a-fide swimming. Mark usually has him wear a life jacket, but we forgot them. So, Spencer jumped in the pool and started swimming all on his own! He could probably swim 15 feet without stopping. He's amazing.

Sarah loves me taking pictures of her. She would play on these stairs all by herself for 2 hours. But of course all the other swimmers kept her a home base and loved showing me all their new tricks.

Here's a picture of the swimmers. They are all in the deep end.

Here's my 2 girls jumping in the deep end fearlessly!

Here is Spencer just coming up from swimming. Yes swimming.

I cleaned out my craft closet and made a new spot in my kitchen cupboard for my kids' crafts so hopefully my closet will stay clean and the kids will sta away from it! Well, this morning I woke up and Autumn had been in her own craft stuff and made this heart. Very nice!

Here is Rebecca yawning! Isn't she cute?

This is after she yawned. With her bright dark eyes.

Here are our mountains. Very pretty. I love them, they are beautiful! I love seieng them.

Introducing the newest member of our family!

2008-12-29T14:04:00.001-08:00

Rebecca Rose

Born : Dec 19
Weight : 6lb 5 oz
Length : 19 1/2 inches

She is doing wonderful! She is beautiful and welcomed into our family very GREAT!

Egyptian Licorice Tea

2008-12-05T07:56:00.000-08:00

Is the best stuff in the world! I love love love it! It is my new favorite! The favorite brand. . YOGI TEA. It is the most greatest flavor with that warm soothing going down my throat, makes me feel so good, especially with my sore throat! Num Yummy!

Just a few funnies

2008-12-04T09:28:00.001-08:00

Just the other day Spencer came up to me after being outside, (Our neighbor has a wreath on her door) and said "Hey mom, It's almost Christmas, that means you can have your baby now!" How cute is that. Then he stood there like I was suppose to have it right then. Don't I just wish.

Sarah is adamant that she is a BOY! She says it all the time, like 30 times a day. Then, she turns around and wants her princess dress up dress on, and says "see mom, I'm a boy" I just say yes, you are a pretty boy!

What else do you do. Only if we could get what we want when we are that small.

T-day shap shots

2008-11-30T14:18:00.001-08:00

This is the meal. How blessed are we!

We always have donuts T-day in the morning!

Brookey making speedy jello salad

Here's our cute boy!

Dad grilled the turkey. MMMMMMMMM it's our favorite way to eat it!

Sunday nights are the longest!

2008-11-16T21:12:00.000-08:00

Man, I think I find the nights longer, obviously in the Winter, but Sunday nights seem like they are the longest time in the world! I just don't feel like doing much and there is tons to get done! Especially since my kids have been home all weekend. Man, I am not looking forward to many more of these. I just need to pull up my bootstraps and find something to do with my time to help it pass more quickly. Hmmm, wonder what that will be. Any suggestions? Besides sleeping all afternoon and make it so I'm not so sleepy at bed time.

One word Meme

2008-11-08T14:13:00.000-08:00

so, I have had 3 different people tag me for this meme. so, I guess it's my turn. It is the one where you can only use one word to describe what is asked. Wish me luck.

Where is your mobile phone? purse
Where is your significant other? Work
Your hair color? helpless
Your mother? funny
Your father? sweet
One favorite thing? babies
Your dream last night? WIERD!
Your dream goal? contentment
The room you're in? kitchen
Your hobby? family
Your fear? pain
Where do you want to be in six years? settled!
Where were you last night? here
What you're not? ready
One of your wish list items? dresser
Where you grew up? Washington
The last thing you did? baked
What are you wearing? uncomfortable
Your TV? quirky
Your pets? puzzling
Your computer? LOVED!
Your mood? even
Missing someone? always
Your car? NICE!
Something you're not wearing? glasses
Favorite drink? MONSTER!!!!!
Your summer? Gone :(
Love someone? definately
Your favorite color? pink
When was the last time you laughed? today
When was the last time you cried? forgot

If you feel so inclined. Be my guest to comment and I will come check yours out.

Wrestling kids for family pictures

2008-10-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

This is my kids messing around, me trying to get them all to look at the camera, and smile. But I'm not sure this worked. . .

This is my Auutmn, and she has chosen her own poses and hair. Very beautiful

This is Brooke, and it is great to see that she has her own style. Isn't it pretty?

She bought the skateboard with her own money. She is so cute on it. She has hurt herself on it, but she's tough!

This is the girl who will not stand still for a picture EVER! I really do not want her hand in her face or the crap in the background, but will that be any different? Probably not, she's a spoiled little girl. How could you know
when she's so cute!

This is m boy. he is so adorable! He has the cutest smile, and he was very bad mouth full of caknersores. Poor guy, but still a good sport trying to look handsome. He was pretty tough to.

These are the kids' latest pictures. We took them in between conference sessions. I don't think there is much different happening, I still miss my girls when they are in school, and want them home. And Spencer and Sarah are so fun they are great to be with. And I'm ok, today with still being pregnant instead of holding my baby on the outside.

My want list is out of control! Where's that big money tree!

2008-09-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, so my desire to have so many things lately is overconsuming!

I want to buy so many things, it is not even funny! I will make a list of things that I want

1. A blendtec blender

2. A bosch mixer

3. A new dresser that will be big and out of wood. Not Naugahyde wood.

4. A cool new toy for my kids for Christmas, you know the one that is white, and starts with "W"

5. Able to go on vacation to anywhere we want! And fly so we don't have to drive!

The biggest problem is that all my money needs to go to more boring stuff, like power, gas, a place to live, clothes for my kids, and the dreaded phone. . .

Any money tree's out there? Would be greatly appreciated. but until then "I guess I'll stay home and eat cold dirt " mmmmm, at least I don't have to spend money on the dentist.

Clouds

2008-09-11T08:05:00.001-07:00

This occurrence is VERY Uncommon in Utah, it does not get rain very often AT ALL! But, I was able to have a little of the back home in WA feel this weekend. I can't tell you how incredibly nice it was to feel the air change from hot DRY DRY did I say DRY to . . . the smell of rain, humid, and cool.

My skin breathed a humongous sigh of relief. Everything in my body could finally breathe easier!

As I was taking these pictures, my neighbors all looked at me like I was simply CRAZY, because I was so happy about clouds. I then remembered my loving Grandpa had piles and piles of pictures of clouds and fire in his stash of pictures. I must say, he was right on the money when it comes to this day. I simply laughed to myself when I remembered him being in aw of the beauty of the clouds. Because we were in the same boat on this occasion. I LOVED these clouds. I won't bore you with more pictures. But I just need to say that the whole sky was covered.

And later than night we were at the library, where I didn't have my camera, and the sunset, was AMAZING! It was so nice to recognize and remember just how much I love the weather of the PNW, and yes I miss it!

A little late on the news!

2008-08-28T20:59:00.000-07:00

This is our newest little one! Due at the end of the year, or the beginning of next.

This is the baby's arms. It's hard to see most of these I know. Plus my u/s tech wasn't the best.

This is the baby's face. It is the little skull. The top of the head is to the right of the pict, and the chin is toward the left. The eye sockets are kind of a helper to see it better.

We are so excited. I can feel the baby move now, and already feel like it's a member of the family!

A little disclaimer!!!

2008-08-28T20:55:00.000-07:00

First : In order for the next 3 posts to make sense. You will need to go down to part 1 first and then work you way up to the top.

Second : For the little prize giveaway, you will need to
1. Not already know the age of the bishop
2. Leave a comment of your guess
3. Leave contact info for me to get back with you (a link to your blog, e-mail, etc)
4. The winner will be announced Tues. Morning. (I'm gonna enjoy the weekend)

Thank for your participation. I think this will be fun!

Luau (part 3)

2008-08-28T20:46:00.000-07:00

This is the hand slapping dance. They say it's because the American's introduced the mosquito (not really but it's funny)

This is our lovely Relief Society President. She is so beautiful.

And they ended with the fire dance. I have a ton of pictures of this but I don't want to bog you down. This is the RS pres. son, that just got back from a mission to Brazil. Do you think the young women in my ward were drooling. I can tell you they sure were!

Luau (part 2)

2008-08-28T20:33:00.001-07:00

Here is the bishop cutting the birthday cake! He always has a swarm of kids around him!

This is a Dance from Tahiti

Here's another hint for you. This is the bishop's youngest daughter. She is doing the dance about the ocean. The music was provided by those 4 who were singing earlier. Bishop, his wife, and the other 2.

This is me playing with my new lens. They are clear across the park from me. And Sarah ran from me to her dad! This is them welcoming her in.

Autumn is trying to learn the hula. She is in the white shirt and jean shorts.

Ward Luau (Part 1)

2008-08-28T20:17:00.001-07:00

Our ward has a Luau every summer, and this is this year's in pictures. I have to tell you there is nothing that comes close to this! It is also our Bishop's birthday. This is his party! He LOVES LOVES LOVES it!

Any guesses how old he is and I will send you a little prize in the mail!

This is the center piece. It takes A LOT of time to cut those fruits up!

Ok, here's a pict of the Bishop, the is on the far right! The one with a laie on. His wife is the second from the left in the green shirt.

This is the whole pig that was roasted on a huge bbq. It was SWARMED as soon as it was put down. People were burning their fingers on it it was so hot still.

This is the after picture! Pretty much picked clean! Amazing. Stay tuned for another post about the dancing!

Wandering Waif Collection GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

2008-08-28T20:11:00.000-07:00

Are you kidding me the most beautiful little outfit! This little girl and the blog are so fun to read and watch as she shares such lovely fun crafting Ideas! I simply love her designs and outfits! I could just do a simple hoodie with the cute pom poms also. Just so beautiful go check it out. Here's the link:

Wandering Waif Collection GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

Garden Party Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

2008-08-21T19:58:00.000-07:00

Garden Party Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

There is this beatuiful little dress this lady is giving away if I link to her blog, which i find very easy to do because I love her blog. Go by and check her out. She is lovely!

In no particular order

2008-08-19T17:56:00.001-07:00

Ok, so up at the mountain lake, Mark thought he was being followed by flies, so he wore this fancy hat, or swimming suit whichever you prefer. And, no it didn't deter the flies from coming after him.

This is Autumn and brooke eating oreos with peanut butter. Yumm, or something.

This is a picture of Mark's selling tires and wheels, why do I show you this picture? 2 reasons. One, to let you know he is still a wheeler and dealer. Second, he sold these so I could buy a new lens for my camera! YEAH! I love it.

Carson gave me a really cute camera strap for my birthday. I am in love with it!

This is Autumn and Brooke on their first day of school. Don't they look cute! Brooke is in 3rd grade and Autumn is in 5th. It looks like it is a nice fall day by the way they are dressed. Nope, it's still in the 100's but they had to wear their new clothes. They came home yesterday sweating and red faces. Today they wore shorts to school, and no sweaters.

2008-08-19T17:47:00.001-07:00

This is the kids on a day out with dad. He took them to Utah lake, were they planning on swimming? No, but that is the joy of going to the lake with dad and no mom. There is a friend in between Sarah and Spencer.

They also went to the shooting range. This is spencer with a bb-gun.

This is little Bean-a refusing to get out of the water! She is our little waterdog! Seriously she screams when she is taken out of any type of water. Sprinkler, bath, lake, pool.

This is dad fixing our tv, so we don't have to stomp every few seconds while watch a movie.

For my birthday we went up to a mountain lake to swim play and relax with friends. Autumn and Mark went up early to mess around on the motorcycle. Brooke went up the first time a while ago, but didn't have a camera with them that time.

I'll post some more in a minute.

A little chatch up

2008-07-19T13:53:00.000-07:00

I did a "speed scrap" which means online you get instructions of what is required every 10 min. for example. You need 2-3 pictures. A background paper that is patterned.

A pretty good turn out I would say. It was so fun!

This is Sarah my little water dog! She LOVES he water. She was swimming in the pool yesterday for 3 hrs. And she was shivering and purple. And she was throwing a HUGE fit to stay in the pool.

The lake above is a lake filled with water from the run off so it was FREEZING cold, everyone dared dad to jump in so of course he had to. It was GREAT.

This is them warming up together.

This is the whole clan of kiddies, on the 4th of July. It was great! We did fireworks in our friends yard. It was so fun! I felt like a kid again.

And lastly, I took this picture to show my new favorite way to do her hair. It is just knots.

Also, this girl scared us this week. If you know Brookey, she is always being active, running, swinging, riding bikes/scooters. ALWAYS! Well, she was swinging and I was around the corner getting the mail, and she came running out and fell of the swing backwards. She was pretty hurt, so I told her to go in and lay on the couch. I continued to the mailbox, got the mail turned around and came in the house. She was crying pretty badly, and saying "what happened to me" Come to find out she couldn't remember anything that had happened the last 2 days. So, I promplty called my dr. (so I could get a verbal referral to go to the ER (per my insurance). They readily gave the go ahead. So, we went to the ER, after a CAT scan, we find she has a concussion. So, we get the instructions how to take care of her during this time she remembered all that had happened. Which I am grateful for. Just the 24 hr. "bedrest" was torture, because she wasn't hurting anymore. Oh my! It was a great blessing to know she is ok, and will continue to be ok.

I the next day was EXHAUSTED! because I do not just simply fall back to sleep every wake up to check and make sure Brooke was ok and could wake up. Man, I was dragging. She was asking me every 5 min. it seemed if she was done and can go play outside. I kept saying no, 2 hrs. etc. So, not only tired, but also exhausted mentally.

But, we are glad she is happy and healthy. It is difficult blog in the summer, but just so you know I am still loving the SLURPPEE! There is nothing better!

Man, I've been behind in posting. . . sorry

2008-06-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

It's not because we haven't had anything happening. Quite the opposite. This is a picture of our Dearest Brookey Bear. She was baptized on June 7, 2008 by her dad. It was a great occasion! We were able to invite quite a few people that normally wouldn't come to an occasion such as this. We had some GREAT friends that we love to go camping with that came. And she had a cute little girl from school who also came. It was GREAT!

Brooke picked out her own dress, and did her own hair, (can you see the brown headband?)

I think we were both quite nervous. But it went VERY WELL! There was only standing room in the room after she got baptized, and her and I sang "I am a Child of God" I would only do that for a special girl such as Brooke.

True to Hilterbrand form, I had problems with my camera, so I had to use my little point and shoot "silly one" that I normally let my kids take on field trips and stuff. So, these are pretty good under the circumstances!

This was right before. Sorry for the silly face on Mark, it wasn't intentional, just my "silly camera"

She was a TROOPER!

Can you see her pretty new pierced ears sparkling in this picture? They are still beautiful. I have not had to reminder even ONCE to clean them and turn them so they stay clean. She has taken it all on herself!

Father's Day

2008-06-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

This is my dad. He is the best! SO, this is a very enjoyable father's day for me! I wish we were closer together! I AM his favorite daughter. He tells me a lot!

And his guy is my husband, who is a GREAT dad! Mostly because he loves to be a kid, and he loves to play! He also likes to teach his kids about how much he loves them and about "life skills" It is great. I love to watch him in action. Such a great FATHER!

Hmmm, not sure what to call this one.

2008-05-13T21:38:00.000-07:00

I SWORE, I would not post this picture, because I didn't want people to see the terrible haircut job I did on my poor husband. But here he is anyway. We used this pict. to put in a newspaper to advertise.

This is another picture of my cute man doing what he does best. Taking a ugly hunk of stump we found out camping, and turning it into income. He found this Box Elder Burl stump thing and he's cutting it up to make pen blanks to sell, and well, this was taken only 10 min. after returning from camping, and he's already almost done with the project. One motivated and self directed man. I LOVE IT!

I hesitate to share this pict. the memories it brings every time I eat toast with cottage cheese and pepper are very sweet. It reminds me of my sweet loving Grandpa. He use to eat this every morning for breakfast. And sometimes I get a craving for it, and it reminds me of Grandpa. Of his funny little manerisims that I have grown to love, and his love for his family, and especially me. I think that we had a good relationship, I know he extended quite a bit of effort to do so. Traveling to see us as often as he could. I do love him and miss him. He is a great grandpa!

We have some Great days ahead!

2008-04-28T22:31:00.001-07:00

Because, first of all. We get to have summer weather! My favorite season hands down! period!

We went on a camping trip this weekend, we went to Yuba Lake in Nephi UT.

And I made the best popcorn EVER! In a dutch oven. I ate probably 3 dutch ovens full of popcorn!

This is what we went in. It's our new camper! And that is my handsome guy! I will post a better pict down farther. WE LOVE IT!

Brooke LOVED bashing open rocks. She absolutely totally loves rocks. A girl after my own heart. We are a lot alike.

This is Sarah Bean-a vacuming the inside of our motorhome! She did this for probably 45 min. Just turning it on and off and also pushing it all.

This is a better picture of our motorhome. I can't wait till we get to be in it A LOT! IT IS GREAT!

Mark helped the kids fish. I love this picture, because it looks like they caught a fish, however, it was a big hunk of seaweed. So, just imagine!

Anyway. We are looking much more forward to this summer, because we will be able to take off and go to places we want to explore!

Just a little doodlin'

2008-04-23T23:07:00.001-07:00

I don't know if you guys know about this little new site: THE RED PORCH

I love to be able to doodle a round a little! I think that having a chance to get in on something at the start up is AWESOME! I was able to use a ton of great elements and papers from their store.

Check it out, they even help with posting it here, with the html code:

"Homeschooly" crafts

2008-04-01T21:55:00.001-07:00

I really would like to explain a little. When we were kids, we would see kids at the thrift stores and other less than "High Fashion" places. We would see things that we just deemed "Homeschooly", well, sometimes I get a hankerin' to do homeschooly crafts. So, I thought it would be fun to share.

This first one is a painting I have been working on for a couple of weeks (with about 6 mo. in between)

I have had a vision of this painting in my mind for a while, and have been wanting to put something like this up in my house for years. Well, I couldn't really find one out on the market that I really identified with, so with Mark's actually pushing me a little , I decided to paint one. So, without further adieu, it's called

"PEACE"
I went home recently to see my niece sealed to her family, and while I was there I met Cody's girlfriend. She was Wonderful! I like her a lot, and she wore a really cool sweater her sister made her. It was her name on the back, made out of felt.

That got my gears turning. And I decided to look for felt at the craft store. . .

And decided you can never have too much felt! Oh come on! That is a true homeschooly person at heart!

So, I busted out my girl's Easter skirts, and Spencer's shirt, and Put a little personalizing on them. And then realized they were very Lavern and Shirely! Oh well, I like them (Notice Spencer shirt isn't pictured, because I couldn't find it)

And last but not least I made a Carebear bag. For what I want to use it for!

There you have it. All of my homeschool crafts!

This Sunday

2008-04-01T21:48:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Easter this Sunday, well at least the Sunday best. Because I was gone on Easter, and this is one of my favorite parts of Easter, so I made them wait.

You will notice this is just THE NEXT DAY!!!!!!!

And that is snow on the ground! Honestly, how exactly am I suppose to comprehend and understand this all! I hate winter, and I hate snow. That has not changed! So, I am really looking forward to Spring!!! Imagine a lot of grumbling from my part. Not even trying to hold it back.

Saturday SPRING IS HERE!

2008-04-01T21:34:00.001-07:00

Saturday we went up Provo canyon, and Enjoyed every minute of it. It was a final breath of fresh air! Her are my 4 kiddies. Aren't they cute!

I was taking just random shots of nature, this one isn't particularly good, but what I found out after I took this picture, was that I has stepped in a decaying rotted old deer. Yes that's what I said! When I stepped into it, it had a poof of the STANKIEST smell EVER! (Why I share this half good pict, and the story? Because! I experienced it, and so do you!)

Mark saw the waterfall and absolutely could not resist. Yes, he is knee deep in the water!

This is a pict. of us, sorry it's sideways. Be glad I posted it at all.

All and all the best Saturday in a very very long time! We can't wait to have more!

Ok, so here's a funny, and then I will post picts. tomorrow

2008-03-31T02:47:00.000-07:00

so, Spencer went to Primary class today.
They learned about being thankful for animals.
The teacher asked all the kids lots of different questions,
The one that made me laugh was. . .

"Spencer where does hamburger come from?" (expecting from cows)
Spencer says "From Wendy's". . .oh, my, that is true experience of what our family does for a reward isn't it! Shh, don't tell the health conscious police!

Then she asked him what animal bacon comes from? He said "Bacon doesn't come from animals" the ironic thing, was this week we had eaten bacon for our breakfast-for-dinner meal on Wed. and we all tickled eachothers ribs, because that is the part of the pig bacon comes from. . .Apparently it didn't sink in!

Oh, well, at least he participated in class, that's a big step forward. And I am VERY grateful I am friends with the Sunbeam teacher and she already knows our wacky family is trying our best!

For all those Brian Regan fans out there

2008-03-12T21:16:00.000-07:00

I have to preclude this post with the person to whom introduced me to Brian Regan in the first place. One of my best friends, I bow to you and thank you. He has brought our family hours of joy.

Autumn's spelling words this week included
Geese
Moose
Oven

As I was giving her a test I just busted out laughing, Mark was in the other room I heard hearty laughs coming from him also.

Just brightened my day!

YUMMY part 2

2008-03-10T19:10:00.001-07:00

I found this recipe on my blogs I read daily today. And we had it for dinner tonight. I cannot believe how much I Love this woman's tastes : Pioneer Woman She is great at sharing her recipes and GREAT pictures. I really love this recipe. I love fresh veggies right now, and Chinese food flavor. Mark also suggested, that maybe we could stir fry the leftovers because my land it makes "enough for Cox's Army" As another blogger I know Hearrocks
She is creative and inspiring. If you have seen the movie PENELOPE, she likes her style, and knows how to make it her own!

YEAH, I finally got them loaded!

2008-03-09T22:48:00.001-07:00

I started a digital scrapbooking course online. At www.jessicasprague.com It is great! Clear understandable. I get TONS of help understanding all the things I have been wondering about! I LOVE IT! It is so fun. Because of so many reasons. Above is my first "layout assignment" I love it so much! FUN FUN FUN! My amazing neighbor who is a wiz at this got me turned onto it, we are taking it together.

These 2 "desktop layouts" Are what I have on the desktop of my computer. The top one is from shabby princess a blog she writes gives all sorts of "freebies". The bottom "desktop" is from another blog, but I can't find the link for the life of me. So sorry!

The last pict. is of my funny dear husband! He cracks me up! And what is he holding do you ask? Well, my Aunt Barb sent me the recipe for these SOFT GRANOLA BARS that my family devoured before I even got a chance to individually wrap them for take to school treats.

Here is the recipe:

Soft Granola Bars
Jean Facer

3 1/2 C. Regular Oats
1/2 C. Wheat Germ
1 1/2 C. Rice Krispies
1 C. Shredded Coconut
1/2 C. Butter
3 C. Marshmellows
1/3 C. Honey
2/3 C. Pumpkin Seeds (OR the recipe calls for chocolate chips)

Preheat oven to 350. Mix the oats and Wheat Germ and Pumpkin Seeds together in the pan and bake for 20-25 min. stirring every 5 min. until it is toasted (it starts to smell yummy!) Take out and add the Rice Krispies and coconut and set aside.

In a bowl or saucepan, melt the marshmellows, margarine and honey together.

Mix the melted ingredients into the dry mixture and after they are well mixed, stir in the cocolate chips (pumpkin seeds in my case) I also added a "glug" of vanilla (real technical huh?)

Pour into 9X13 pan and pat down.

Let cool and cut into 16 bars. THey can be wrapped individually in foil and kept in the freezer.

We didn't even get to the "let cool stage" We just ate them out of the pan. It was our dessert after dinner.

Really try it! It is way yummy!

TRY TO GUESS SECTION!

One last thing. I have been trying out this really fun exercise program in the mornings. I LOVE IT! There is only one person I know will agree with me. That's my Aunt Bev, she and I have a lot in common in this certain area. It is on Oxygen channel in the mornings. It is an hour long. I have been doing it for a month now, and I am a new woman! I look forward to it every day! I have new respect for my bodies abilities and how I am connected to it.

Guess I will post the answer later.

ugh

2008-03-09T19:53:00.000-07:00

I keep trying, but it keeps saying there is an error. . .so, never fear I won't give up

Something yummy to look at and eat.

2008-03-08T23:08:00.000-08:00

The blogger doesn't seem to be letting me upload pict.
So I guess I'm just teasing you. I will try in the AM

A little picture to keep you smiling

2008-03-04T23:32:00.001-08:00

I'm really not sure what these are pictures of. I know it was on Sunday because of Spencer's outfit. I must have been taking a nap or something. I just downloaded my camera tonight to get some pictures off for Mark, and this is what I was surprised with. So, I thought you might enjoy them also.

helicopters, and CABIN FEVER released!

2008-02-28T21:34:00.001-08:00

First of all, forgive me for some of the pictures, I have been working on some camera settings.

THE SNOW IS GONE! probably only until Saturday, but it is so nice, we have been playing outside for the last 3 days and we are remembering we have neighbors again. I LOVE IT!!!!!!!

Every time I would kneel down to take a picture of Sarah running toward me, she would stop and bend down just like I was. . .

This is my two kids, who are getting to really like playing together. It is so darn fun!

We were playing outside when Mark got home from school, and this is the kids loving the ride on the motorcycle, with a neighbor girl in the pict. A girl that is in Spencer's sunbeam class.

I finally got the ISO right on my camera, and the picture turned out WONDERFUL, I love the soft edges around her hair. She was pooped from riding her bike up and down the street for an hour. (thanks Kathleen for the pointers)

Didn't quite get this in focus, but she is precious none the less!

OK!!!
These are the helicopters! Each of those blue circles rotate around, so it is hard to get a steady grip! This is what Brooke lives and breathes these days.

And this is my precious Autumn, how beautiful is she? She got off her bike, and her thighs were burning, remember that feeling? I DO!

Brookey loves the Helicopters

2008-02-21T18:44:00.000-08:00

The helicopters are kind of like the monkey bars at school on the playground, but they have the bars are in a circle and you have to ride the circle around to the next one, and they have consecutive circles in a row I know I'm not getting the jist for you. . .I will take a pict of her doing them.

BUT I do have a picture of her hands from doing them every day both recesses and afterschool! She is AWESOME at them!

I know these aren't the best pictures, but we counted 8 blisters total! Most of them are on her palms at the base of her fingers.

A catch up

2008-02-20T21:15:00.000-08:00

ok in no particular order here are the pics. of the week. . .or maybe longer hey who's counting right. . .just sit back and enjoy.

This is my Autumn, not sure why but I can't seem to get a strait face out of her.

These are all the kids with their valentine's presents. Notice the two older girls got clothes. . .hmmm, I guess they are growing up.

Sarah lately is addicted to gloves on her hands, or socks she's not picky. She will go around the house for HOURS like this.

This is the kids and I getting our kitchen ready for our big Valentine dinner for dad, notice Sarah's hands, and Spencer was errand boy to put things away in other rooms. . .on his bike of course.

This is Spencer after he gets home from his little pre-school he goes to 1x a week for 1/2 an hour. . . he is always pooped. He just climbed up in my lap and fell asleep.

Mark has a new toy. He is trying to get "accurate" And we have decided Spencer is old enough to shoot a bb gun under close supervision. This is both of them with their targets after going to the range.

And this is what Mark came home from school on Valentine's day for a quick drop off in between classes. So sweet! It was the BEST sugar cookie I have EVER EVER eaten! He still won't tell me where he got this. Just a sweet thoughtful man!

This is Brooke and our neighbor with their Valentine's spoils from school.

This is my Awesome Autumn. I love her so much. She is learning long division right now, and she is so SMART! She has her own computer at her desk at school now she takes her math and spelling tests on, and is working on her biography, very neat stuff in school.

Valentine's tag!

2008-02-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

How long have you been together? 11 years! WOW!
How old is he? 33, just like me.
How old are you? I forget
Who eats more? Hmmm, I don't know but I'm saying Mark
Who said "I love you" first? I think it was me?
Who is taller? Mark, by a head, he puts his chin on the top of my head
Who sings better? Mark, no question
Who is smarter? Mark, easy, he's who I turn to every time!
Who does the laundry? Me, of course, I know what needs to not be put in the dryer.
Who does the dishes? Me, begrudgingly, and not very well.
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Hmmm, standing up at the foot looking at it? Me.
Who pays the bills? Both, best decision in the world!
Who mows the lawn? The landlord. . .But I LOVE TO! One of my favorite jobs.
Who cooks dinner? Me, do you have any ideas of what to cook? I never do!
Who is more stubborn? Hmm, depends on the topic.
Who kissed who first?Mark, to my suprise. . .he is so romantic!
Who asked who out? Mark asked me, and I was scared. . .but he put me at ease RIGHT away!
Who proposed? We decided together, and then Mark proposed officially at our first date spot.
Who is more sensitive? I Don't know
Who has more friends? Mark, easy, I like staying home with my kids.
Who has more siblings? We both tie.
Who wears the pants in the relationship?Like E. Holland says I am the head but my wife is the neck.
Who are you tagging? Kathleen, Arlene, Shiela, Shalise.

This week in review

2008-02-03T20:08:00.001-08:00

Ok, so, I think I am needing to take some picts of my older girls. Because All I have are picts of my "two littles" is what we call Spencer and Sarah.

Ok, I don't have a before of these two haircuts, but they look so darn HANDSOME! I went grocery shopping Sat. night, and said under my breathe, I don't want Spencer to go to church with his hair, I will be to embarrassed by his hair. IT WAS WAY WAY WAY to long! This is what I came home to. What a kind and thoughtful husband! He cut them both by himself, yes his own!

Sarah is so funny these days. She is FULL of personality. She will NOT take this hat off! Thanks Gma Lois!

Spencer has played with this dart gun for HOURS AND HOURS. I checked one day and he had it in his hand for 6 hrs. straight!

Sarah eats lunch on this everyday. She loves to play on it. Spencer and her fight over it often. (Thanks g-ma A) Notice her raggy hair? Wait till later in the post. I was SICK OF IT.

This is Sarah, because I made her take her hat off. Poor pitiful thing.

This is my sweet Sarah, she is ready for her first day of Nursery class. we took her in, and sat her on the chair to play with playdoh, and well, she looked at me , waved her hand at me and said GO! And then pushed me away. So I did, when I went to pick her up she was GREAT! Didn't want to come with me. Hmmm, how's a mom take that? I'm still not quite sure.

Ok, her hair. MUCH BETTER, she now has bangs.

The dress. Is so darn cute on her! My mom made it for me to wear, and Autumn, Brooke, and now Sarah have worn it.

I would show photos of my other 2 girls in these dresses, but they are hard copies. And I am not organized. . .Maybe some other time.

My goal this week, take some picts. of my older 2 girls. And show you what they are up to.

Ok, i'll try to post the picts. again. . .

2008-02-03T15:32:00.001-08:00

Ok, so the night I posted, blogger double posted, I deleted the one with the picts. in the post. That's why. Sorry, but here they are!

I am making one for Sarah next.

I swore I would never get into Scrapbooking!

2008-02-01T22:25:00.002-08:00

Well, I am now a Digital Scrapbooker! This is the wonderful culmination of my Christmas present, and a very patient and willing to neighbor to teach me!

I am so excited, There is no excess storing, of stuff in obscure places. So, I can keep all this on one little spot in my computer and be as happy as a clam. Turn off the computer and vacuum, do the dishes and cook dinner without the mess!

SO DARN COOL.

So a special thanks to Markers, and Kathleen my neighbor.
She is so very good. There is so much I can learn from her, this is just the beginning.

Picture of the day

2008-01-22T21:29:00.001-08:00

Ok, so it turned into more than one picture.

Monday night we sorted, organized, inventoried, and correctly stored our Food Storage. So, we are ready for W.C.N.! (inside joke) We were all in the basement, and Mark and I couldn't stand up all the way, so we sat on chairs and the girls did the dirty work. I feel SOOO good about having this set up, we now know what we need to work for to fill in the holes.
Example: More wheat, and protein.

I guess it doesn't matter exactly what my kids wear around the house, right? This is one of 2 outfits that he wears constantly. The other one is an outfit Jill and Brock got him that is a Spiderman outfit. HE IS SO CUTE!

Mark worked last night cleaning carpets, and had to go to school early today. This is a pict. I took today at 1:00 pm. I asked him to help Spencer get to sleep, he was more than willing. I went up and found that he had put both kids to sleep. What a good guy. It was so cute! I couldn't get a better pict, because the flash would wake them up. So, this is what I got.

GOTCHA!

2008-01-20T09:22:00.000-08:00

Summer and her Mom! Isn't it a beautiful sight!

Now you can take a deep breath!

The anticipation is building

2008-01-20T00:16:00.000-08:00

They have 2 hrs. to wait. I can not fathum the feeling in the hotel room.

I am SURE they are unable to breathe deeply until their "precious daughter" is in their arms.

I am praying for your whole family!

"AAAHHH that scared me"

2008-01-19T22:07:00.000-08:00

This Autumn's saying lately.

Like the other day we were all waiting for dad to unlock the van door so we could get in. He unlocks and opens the slider and Autumn Screams "AAAHHH that scared me!"

I have been doing some re-decorating (continual) and she walks by her bedroom door, and on the shelf on the wall is a statue that has been moved from the left side of the shelf to the right, 3 days earlier. "AAAHHH, that scared me!"

She walks outside on newly fallen snow in the morning to go to school "AAAHHH, that scared me".

I tell you we are living with a drama queen.

But a funny one at that.

pict. for the day

2008-01-19T16:48:00.001-08:00

It is so hard for me to believe they are going to be coming home from this foreign land with a new baby!

Amazing!

The Great Wall.

Where my thoughts and prayers are

2008-01-18T10:01:00.001-08:00

This is my new niece. She is living in China right now, in an orphanage. She is 7 mo. old. Her mom and dad went to get her this week. She will be home in 3 weeks. We really can't wait.

This is a picture of our family. They have been waiting almost 3 years. She is going to be here soon it is almost not real.

They landed in their hotel at 6 this morning. They have been able to see 4 other families that are going to get their babies also. They haven't slept in 27 hrs. Big travel day!

Well, did you sleep last night? I didn't!

2008-01-10T10:29:00.001-08:00

I was running between 4 pukers. Literally running. I'm exhausted today. But like I keep telling my family. I would much rather take care of sickies than be one! One good thing out of the day.

trying to catch up

2008-01-05T16:39:00.000-08:00

Probably my favorite picture lately.
This is Sarah with Grandma Betty.

For Christmas we put together 25 humanitarian kits for those in need. It was great seeing all the cousins working together.

This is or family on Christmas Eve with all the cousins except Taylor. I can't believe how big everyone is!

This is the fish Brooke picked for Christmas. Her name is MAX.

We went to Spokane for Christmas, and had a great time seeing family and friends. We were able to have a good time reconnecting with everyone.

Temple Square

2007-12-18T16:39:00.001-08:00

So we live here in Provo, and are able to experience the beauty of Salt Lake Temple Square, and be able to feel the joy and love of the Savior who is central in my faith. I will show you a few pictures of the experience. It was stunning and peaceful.

This is a Latin American depiction of the Nativity. Mary is in the cart with the baby in her arms. Joseph is standing with his hat off. And those are my icicle kids, at the end of the tour.

This picture is right in front of the fountain and it is very large and life size. Absolutely my favorite one there. Because of the white that really represented purity that the Savior brought to us. How joyous.

I don't know if this needs much explanation. Just the beautiful Salt Lake Temple at night. In all it's glory and beauty, lit as a beacon to all come bask in the light of the Savior.

This is the fountain with lights floating in the water and beautiful with all the lights!

This is Spencer in the Conference Center where we went to thaw out, and use the bathrooms. He asked me to take a picture by this the Savior resurected. A perfect end to the whole experience.

And as most of you know I am starting to collect statues of mother and child. This one is a BEAUTIFUL one. Really helps me feel like I have an important role in this, my love and faith in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints.

This is for Kathleen the first Tag I got.

2007-12-17T11:48:00.000-08:00

Well, Kathleen just tagged me, and so here are my answers.

1. if you owned a bookstore what would you name it: My favorite things, or Amy's things

2. which literary hero [male or female] would you like to be: Well, you might not think she's a hero, until you read the sequel, which I loved. Scarlet O'hara

3. if you were given the chance to be born in a different decade which one would you choose:
Well, I think I would choose my pioneer ancestors, I am amazed by their strength.
4. who would play you in a movie: Some geekey girl, maybe Drew Baryymore in First Kiss, before she grew up.

5. what was your favorite toy of all of time: maybe Barbies, I played with them for hours with the neighbors across the street.
6. what do you like to collect: I am just starting to collect statues of mom and child, and SHOES!

7. what is your guilty pleasure: Monster Energy drinks

8. if you had the power to change one thing in this world what would that be: That everyone in the world would know they are loved.

9. what is your most embarrassing moment: What I never do anything embarrassing
.
10. what is your favorite Christmas movie: National Lampoon's Christmas vacation

11. what is your favorite vegetable: sweet potatoes

12. tell 3 things about yourself (2 true, and 1 untrue ) and see if we can figure out which is fantasy: I don't lie very good, I love to eat fish, and I have read all night without sleep before.

And now I tag Jill, because she just tagged me on another one which will be next.

Favorites

2007-11-27T13:17:00.001-08:00

I am starting with my first Christmas present. Our neighbors took us to dinner and movies.

The movie :
If you haven't seen it. . .it is a MUST! It is funny, sad, happy, WONDERFUL!
Mark and I have been quoting it all day since we saw it. It is so darn good! I am buying it when it comes out no questions asked!

Favorite Babysitter :

It is official. I found one I LOVE! (thanks again to our neighbor) Her name is Janet. I came home to sleeping children and a clean house! And my kids love her to! I will use her more often!

Favorite snack :

Orville Reddenbocker this is the best popping, and tasting popcorn. I love it all flavors.

Favorite youtube video (this changes often, but this is a funny one).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMH0bHeiRNg

Favorite Commedian:

I think most of my family knows this. He's got a new one out.

Brian Regan

you can youtube him also.

Favorite Pastime :
Teaching Spencer his letters. We are on letter Dd

PLEASE SHARE YOUR FAVORITES!!!!!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2007-11-22T20:56:00.003-08:00

Ok, so we had a wonderful easy going Thanksgiving. We at the last minute decided to stay home, because we all were starting to have a cold, and Mark had a big project to work on.

Mark BBQ'd the turkey. If you haven't had one bbq'd, you are truly missing out! It was SOOOO good!

Here is a picture of our table. It was a FEAST! It was so wonderful! We all worked in the kitchen together and had a great time doing it!Sarah helped by eating olives. She was SO DARN CUTE!

The sun went down, and actually saw a sunset which is very rare!

Mark started sharing his "youthful excitement" with us all. Out of his "Backyard Ballistics" book. It was GREAT FUN! We laughed a lot.Then, while dad relaxed we played "SPA" I did the girls face, and they did mine. Brookey did the side she's standing on and Autumn did the other. WE laughed so much!

This is dad in his Turkey coma. We decided to play with him.

We have so darn much to be thankful for! I LOVE being with my family. They are the funnest! One of the best T-day to date.

What a weekend!

2007-11-14T22:53:00.001-08:00

Our family went to Auntie Barb's house to visit my parents. They were up there to visit. so, we snuck up there. This was a fun packed weekend.

This is a pict. of them playing with paper dolls. And G-ma Lois being the "ham" of the night. She gave us a GREAT laugh!

Auntie Bev, she came over to visit. So nice of her. ANd this was her show and tell! Could you do that?!? I couldn't, however it makes me want to start yoga. I just might. This is Mark working on their kitchen sink.

And while we were there our puppy finally had her puppies! She is such a GOOD momma. She had 4 in all. 3 boys and 1 girl. The black one is a girl. They were so tiny. About the size of a hampster.

This is Brookey holding one of the puppies. We had to steel a pict. while Rosiey was eating. She is so darn vigilant.

Brookey's Recital

2007-11-14T22:47:00.001-08:00

Brooke is in a dance class. She is learning how to dance, and it is so exciting and wonderful. She comes home so talkative and happy. They performed at a "Gingerbread Festival" Last Saturday. It was AWESOME! She did perfect.

This is a pict. of her class.

This is her doing a twirl. . . she did AWESOME!

So, I guess you never know

2007-11-05T11:19:00.000-08:00

I have a dog who is about to pop! I thought she was going to have her babies last thurs. But she still hasn't. I'm not sure what to do. She was able to have her babies last time quite easily. But now I'm starting to wonder if I should take her to the vet, but I don't know what they would do. She doesn't seem uncomfortable, well, considering she's gained 7 lbs. She weighed 3 when she started. . .I don't know what to do. This weekend we kinda had some plans, I don't know what do to. . .

That's how my Monday's going how is yours?

My oh my I am never doing that again.

2007-11-01T21:26:00.000-07:00

First off. Spencie wore this to target today, he was so cute! HE didn't want to stop dressing up.

First, at church they had a halloween party. They sent a sign up sheet around to help with the different parts of the party. I didn't want to run a game NO WAY! I have a hard time with those kind of party's way to loud and chaotic. So, I signed up to make a cake for the cake walk. No biggie right. Cupcakes are my standby for any signup. Easy, always have them on hand to make.

So, It took me 5 hrs. , 2 layers, 3 tubs of frosting, 2 bags of candy, and the most frazzled momma I ended up with a cake I wasn't absolutely embarresed of. I was so so so tempted to just dump it in the garbage and run to Albertson's. I am NOTHING like Kyla. I spent more time on this cake than ANY of my kids cakes for their birthday's combined!

So I take it to the church early (it's just around the corner) so i don't have to do cake on top of the whole halloween WHOOPLAAAHHH! No matter how clean my house is the day of halloween, by the end of the day it looks like there has been an earthquake, or my house had the flu and threw up all it's contents EVERYWHERE! Inside and out!

Needless to say I will never make a cake for someone else again.

So we go to the church I tell Autumn she has to go to the cakewalk, because I KNOW no one will pick my cake and she had to so I didn't feel bad.

We get in there probably 10 min. after the cakewalk started. My cake was already gone! It was one of the first to go. What the parent doesn't know is that it is more frosting than cake. MAN the kid will enjoy it right?

BOOO!!!

2007-11-01T21:17:00.001-07:00

My little puppy dog. He wore this costume for probably a week strait, I had to talk him out of wearing it to church. You had to call him puppy he would not respond to Spencer, I had to wash it before he could wear it this time for real.

Baby bat cried out in fright turn on the dark I'm afraid of the light. She wanted to see the pict. on the camera.

Hula Girl. Was the Bishop's favorite costume, he's from Hawaii
The necklace is what Jill and Brock got me when they went to Hawaii.

Witch girl. With the RED lipstick!

A happier Bat. With a pizza crust in her hand she carried around for abt. an hour.