Happy Times

Project Life

2012-03-13T06:29:00.000-07:00

One of my many, many goals that I set for myself in 2012 is to start scrapbooking with Project Life. If you aren't familiar with this genius, wonderful, creative, simple idea, you can find out more about it here: www.beckyhiggins.com. Back in 1998'ish I was lucky enough to meet Becky Higgins at a scrapbook retreat at Sherwood Hills. I had seen a lot of her stuff in Creating Keepsakes magazine and loved her style. Who knew then that she would turn into the icon that she is today? I remember her looking at some of my scrapbooks and having her tell me that I needed to submit some of my pages to the magazine. Maybe I should have listened, but I didn't. I've always been grateful that I was able to meet her, she is such an inspiring woman with amazing talents. Anyway, I have dug in and worked on my version of Project Life and have been diligently taking more photos of the "everyday" and celebrating the little things that happen my families lives. It has amazed me how much more aware I am of the things that we do and see that we take for granted. Normally, I wouldn't think to photograph that one certain meal that I seem to fix every week cause let's just face it... it's just dinner. But someday, when my kids are older, they may look back on that and say how much they loved that meal mom made or want to fix it for their kids too. Who knows? All I know is I am having a blast documenting this year with photos and memorabilia. Things that may not be real important now, but years from now will. I love that I am getting my photos printed and being able to hold them in my hands instead of just looking at the images on my camera or on the computer screen. I'm loving all the inspiration there is out there on blogs or of my friends taking this same journey with me. I love making time to work on my album and being able to use all of the product that I have "collected" throughout the years.

"Hooked" on Fishing

2012-02-28T06:23:00.000-08:00

It took a week of begging, to get me to cave and let Conner go fishing at Wellsville Dam "by himself". He had worked hard all week getting some missing assignments in to get a better grade in one of his classes. This boy lives for fishing!! Fly fishing, ice fishing, it doesn't matter as long as it involves fishing he is a happy camper. He studies everything that has to do with it. I love that when he finds something that interests him, he digs in and consumes himself with it. Now if I could get him to do the same with his school work, the kid would be a genius!!! LOL Anyway, not quite an hour after he had got there he called to say "somehow he had got a fly (I think he specifically named the fly) stuck in his finger and it was going to need attention". YIKES!!! Luckily, he had met a guy there that was a Youth Fly Fishing Coach and was bringing him to my mom's so I could take him to the doctor. Super, super nice guy!!! Conner was so excited to have met this man and considers him his new friend. :) Needless to say, we spent our Friday night at Instacare and unfortunately having to wait nearly 2 hours to see the doctor was the worst part.

Getting his vitals...

Waiting for the doctor to come in the room...Ouchie!!!!!The doc deadened his finger and then used some sort of string and pulled the hook right out. It took about a half a second. I didn't watch cause I have a weak stomach for stuff like this. Conner was a trooper and relieved to have it out!After this adventure, Conner had to suffer through a haircut... another part of the deal!

Love you bud!! ;)

Christmas Day

2012-02-23T05:24:00.001-08:00

I love this picture!! The glow of the lights on the Christmas Tree in the corner the evidence that Santa stopped by in the night to deliver treasures for the kiddos. Kinda like the calm before the storm so to speak. I love that this moment is frozen and you can almost taste the anticipation!

You have been and always will be my Clark W. Griswold. Sparky even sported the appropriate shirt for the celebration!Every one getting spoiled at Grandma & Grandpa's...Waders!!!!??? No way!!!!And back home to see the goods Santa brought...

Ice fishing rod.... AWESOME!!Her prized possession!! A NINTENDO DS!!Their gifts to each other! Happy kids!From what I've been told, this was Lilly's favorite thing she got this year and has played with it quite a bit! I knew she would love it!I gave Clay a Keurig and it's been very much enjoyed! :)Merry Christmas everyone!!

Christmas Eve

2012-02-22T13:13:00.001-08:00

I love spending time together as a family around the holidays. Even though Christmas is a crazy, stressful time of year it's so nice to continue the same traditions that I had as a little girl and start new ones with my kids. Unfortunately, my kids' Christmas traditions are split between Clay and I and their dad. And this year I only had them for an hour on Christmas Eve and for 6 hours in the afternoon on Christmas. We have to make the most of the time we get together. I hope my kids will always look back on their Christmas' with happy memories just like I did. I can't even imagine how hard it is for them to have divorced parents. :( Now that it's almost March I will try and get caught up and post about Christmas! :)

Books from Clay & I

PJ's from Grandma & Grandpa NielsenReading to Hadley... so stinking sweet!Continuing the PJ tradition...And a rare hug.... this is what it's all about.Happy Christmas Eve!

Teacher & Friend Gifts

2012-02-10T06:31:00.000-08:00

Wanted to share these cute SIMPLE Christmas gifts that we made for Courtney's teacher and all the kids in her class. The wood apple was for her teacher, which I bought at Wood Creations.

For her classmates, I bought small notebooks at Staples and we covered the spines with scrapbook paper tied jute around them and attached a pen. Then we put all the gifts in brown lunch sacks that I had used a border punch along the top to cute them up. Added a label and tied on a tulle bow. Easy and perfect! I'm not a fan of singling out individual friends to give gifts to and I feel if you give to one, you give to all! We went with a fairly inexpensive gift that I hope everyone loved!

Christmas Eve Morning/Afternoon

2012-02-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

On the morning of Christmas Eve, we got up pretty early and took the kids to breakfast at IHOP and then stopped real quick at Inkley's to see why my camera wouldn't take a decent picture. Yea, found out that I had accidentally switched the lens to manual focus, ugh!!! We are all good now! I'm just relieved that's all it was. Then we stopped and visited with Clay's dad at the nursing home and wished him a Merry Christmas!

The kids were then off to their dads and Ashley brought Lilly over to see us for a while, so we let her open a present. She was so happy and excited!! It was the cutest thing!!The proof is in the pictures! Happy little girl with her new cow doll. :)

Christmas Tradition

2012-01-25T10:51:00.000-08:00

Every year it's a tradition to spend a Saturday in Layton doing our Christmas shopping. My mom, sisters and aunt are always there and this year we had an added bonus! Clay came with us! He was our chauffeur and hauled us all down south. Honestly, Clay is the best shopping company and we had a blast!!! I remembered my camera this year but it was on the fritz so I apologize for the poor quality photos but I think you will get the point.

Our first stop on the way was at Maddox Drive In for some lunch. Quite orgasmic, if you ask Breck! ;) She is our entertainment every year and has earned the nickname "Tour Guide Barbie". It definately wouldn't be the same without her!

Breck & Keesha having lunch in the car! Mmmmmm
Modeling in front of Tai PanWhen we came out of Tai Pan we saw this sweet muscle car, had to take a quick photo. Breck posed in front of it but my pictures were all blurry.Never a dull moment with Breck around! Had to take advantage of the toys at the mall! Biker Babe!!

Breck and Clay throwing a ball back and forth in Target.Looks like we made a haul!! Seriously always have a wonderful time with my awesome family! Can't wait till next year! ;)

Gingerbread Houses

2012-01-16T09:53:00.000-08:00

I decided to start a new tradition and let Courtney decorate a gingerbread house. I cheated and bought a pre-made kit and wrapped it up for her as a surprise. She was pretty excited and begged me the rest of the week to put together. So finally we had Kenzlie over and they both decorated their houses (well, they did for a few minutes and then Keesha and I finished them) I should have known that's how it was going to go. Oh well, the girls had fun anyway and that's what it's all about. We just might continue this tradition. :)

Pepper

2012-01-10T09:05:00.000-08:00

About three months ago our Pepper had to have some surgery. She had a tumor in one of her nipples and had to have it removed and also was spayed. The vet said if we didn't have her spayed she had a greater chance of having another tumor return. She did really well and I was relieved to have it taken care of. Within a week or so she was pretty much back to normal. Then once the weather turned cold I noticed she was moving a little slower than usual and had figured that it was due to the cold and recovering from the surgery. Unfortunately, there must have been more going on than we knew about because she passed away on Tuesday, December 6th. It was so sad to have to tell the kids and it has effected me more than I realized. I came to depend on her just being there to protect me and keep me company when I was alone. There is definatley a huge void in our family since losing her. Pepper was a very loyal, well mannered dog and even when she escaped from the yard she never left our property. She just sat on the porch and waited for me to come home. Silly girl. Sure, Pepper has been a VERY expensive dog, (chewed up lawn mower bags, chewed up 4 wheeler controls and grips, numerous dog beds, gloves, shoes and other random items) I love her. ;) She always loved us unconditionally and minded really well. I really miss my snow shoveling buddy. Rest in peace sweet girl. We love you!

Our Trick or Treaters

2011-12-15T09:41:00.000-08:00

This year we had the cutest little spooks stop by for Halloween.

Lilly the Ladybug

Two cute little witches, Hadley & KenzlieJensyn the cow. (I remember when Conner & Courtney wore this)Sweet little pumpkin MaysaThen later, another witch came to visit, Courtney

And Conner... I can't remember the technical name for his costume, so use your imagination. ;)

It's beginning to look a lot like...

2011-12-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

C H R I S T M A S!!!!!

I've been staying caught up with my wrapping this year! Getting things wrapped as I go instead of waiting and having to do it all at once. AND, I'm almost done Christmas shopping! I made a goal to get it all taken care of so that I can actually enjoy the month of December and not stressing and having the financial burden of it all. I think I only have like 4 more gifts to buy and I'm DONE!! :)

"Give Thanks" Banner

2011-11-23T08:47:00.001-08:00

Just a little banner that I made after finding the inspiration online! I love being crafty! Just wish I had a better place to hang it than on my curtain rod. Oh well! I hope everyone has a very Happy Thanksgiving. I am so excited to be spending the holiday with my husband, kids and my family. There's nothing better in this world!! :)

My New Ride

2011-11-10T06:41:00.000-08:00

After driving my 2001 Honda Accord for over 10 years I decided to say so long and upgrade my vehicle. It was either put a bunch of money into my Honda or get something a little newer. As you can see I went with the latter of the two. My Honda brought my new baby girl home from the hospital, got me to work many, many times and has always been a great car with very few repairs. I think Clay had a harder time getting rid of it than I did. He said it was part of who I am and my identity. Love this man! I guess now I have a new identity! LOL

We had been looking for several months and knew we wanted somthing with 4 wheel drive and the extra seating. I really wanted a GMC Acadia but they were way out of our price range even for a used one. We both fell in love with the Nissan Pathfinder and had kept our eye out for one with the options that we wanted and low miles. Clay showed up at my work one day with this '08 Pathfinder and took me for a ride and well, we made the purchase a couple of days later. I feel so completely spoiled!!! It has so many MORE options than I have ever had, leather, power, HEATED seats!! Yikes! Always wanted bum warmers! ;) Plus it has third row seating so if we needed to we can transport 7 people! Obviously the addition of 4 wheel drive is awesome so I can arrive at work safely and I won't have to stress about getting stuck with all the stupids out on the roads. YES, it is a gas hog, but we knew this going into it but the peace of mind is so totally worth it! I have to put a plug in for Wilson Motors, they are WONDERFUL to work with and I would highly recommend them to anyone! Great, friendly people!!

Bathroom Makeover

2011-11-02T09:32:00.000-07:00

Back in September, Clay and I refinanced our house and got a killer interest rate which saved us quite a bit of money so I decided that our house needed a little makeover to celebrate!! So, the main bath got a fresh coat of paint and some new towels, rugs and decorations!! Thanks to my sister Breck for the FREE paint! Feels good to have a new updated look in this bathroom. These poor green rugs have lived in 3 different bathrooms in the past several years and had seen better days! Out with the old and in with the new!!!

BEFORE

AFTER

Halloween Treats

2011-10-25T08:34:00.000-07:00

Courtney was asked to bring a treat to share with her Cheerleading class today. I had this cute pattern for these bats and decided to give it a try! I love the googly eyes, it gives them a little personality! ;) I don't like the real bats but these paper bats are pretty darn adorable! Kinda fun so I wanted to share!

Happy Halloween!!!

Vinyl Pumpkins

2011-10-25T07:53:00.000-07:00

I have wanted to try decorating my pumpkins with vinyl ever since I saw the idea online somewhere over a year ago. So here is what I came up with... I used my Cricut for the poka dots and all of the other images I used my Silhouette. Then I added a little bit of ribbon and tulle around the stems to add a little more craftiness! (Is that a word?) So much fun!!! I really like how they turned out! And THE very best part.... NO MESS!! Let me know what you think.

Lilly's 1st Birthday!!!

2011-10-07T09:13:00.000-07:00

Lilly turned one on September 18th! Clay and I were both able to be there at her party and celebrate with her. I can't believe it's already been a year!?

Lilly & GrandpaShe was a little overwhelmed with all of the presents! She got spoiled rotten! :)Lilly knew exactly what to do when given the chance to have cake!She dug right in and got messy!!She even shared cake with anyone who wanted it! Too cute!

Modeling one of the outfits that we gave her. And waving bye-bye...

Happy Birthday little one!!!
We love you so very much!!!!

Camping

2011-09-29T08:56:00.000-07:00

This summer we made a few camping trips and although I took my camera each and every time, it only got pulled out and used the last time we went. Ugh! I need to do better and take more pictures. I look forward to our weekends away spending time with family and relaxing. It's a ton of work to get ready to go but so worth it! And the best is being with the kiddos and this handsome devil!

Maysa modeled several rather stylish sunglasses...And Courtney had to join in on the modeling. What a goober?Getting ready to go for a ride to Ephraim's Grave.Nice dust mask bud!Sorry Yensy, you didn't get to go with us but cool helmet anyway!Keesha captured this adorable smile while we were on our ride.On our way back we got POURED on!!! We were all drenched, COLD and filthy! Quick showers for everyone! Quite an adventure! But, wouldn't trade it for anything!

Back to School

2011-09-27T08:39:00.000-07:00

I'm finally getting around to posting about the kiddos first day of school. I can't believe how fast the summer went by this year. We had such a long, wet spring which made the summer seem so much shorter. I think I was more upset about school starting than the kids were. I enjoy the freedom that comes with summer time, no schedules, no homework and less grueling routines. But irregardless the time came for school to start and this little man is now in the 8th grade! Ugh!! He now attends South Cache which is nice since it's closer to home and he can walk to school, and he starts a little later so that's just an added bonus. He is now officially taller than me which doesn't take much but I'm not too happy to have to look up to him! What happened to my little boy?? Time goes by too fast!!!

I was nice and gave him a ride on the first day and didn't follow him inside with my camera. ;) As much as I wanted to I resisted the total, utter embarrassment.Then there's my Courtney. After we attended back to school night we made a quick batch of homemade chocolate chip cookies for her to take to her teacher on the first day. So cute!And it's always nice to have a willing (and cute) 3rd grader to photograph on the first day! She was so good to model with her sign for me. Love her!!We still have a fettish with owls so this back pack was just icing on the cake! Cutest thing EVER!!! Thanks Keesha for finding it for us! And also thanks to Breck for the coupon!We arrived early enough to get a shot in front of the school before the buses got there.So far Courtney has had a "new" teacher to Lincoln every year. And this year she has her first "boy teacher", Mr. Amott. He is fresh out of college and this is his first year teaching. So exciting! Courtney loves him and enjoys being in his class.Rather than buying a boring pencil box, I decided to get my craft on and make one! I thought it turned out pretty cute and won't be like everyone elses. Let's hope it survives through the end of the school year.

Angry Birds Birthday

2011-08-18T06:08:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it! I officially have a TEENAGER!!! Conner turned thirteen on August 1st and we celebrated on the 2nd with an Angry Birds party. Since I have always done something special for Courtney, I thought I had better do it for Conner as well. It was so much fun browsing the internet for ideas to go along with the Angry Birds theme. Instead of a cake I made rainbow cupcakes and decorated them with different treats to make them look like the birds...

And I found these cute patterns that you tape to balloons...

Finally got to use my balloon wreath I made back in March...Grandma & Grandpa gave Conner new coveralls for work.

And Breck & Ryan took the liberty of getting him razors and shave cream, so embarrassed! ;)Being silly ;)

The highlight of the party was when he opened this box to find a girls t-shirt with Justin Beiber on the front of it. LOL. We had to pull his chain a bit since he loves JB soooooo much! NOT!!!

Once he looked under the JB shirt he found a tackle box and a fishing license! It was worth it!And a new fishing pole!!And last but not least.... A NEW LAPTOP OF HIS VERY OWN!He has been saving his money and he put $250 towards it and Clay and I covered the rest! So proud of him!Happy Birthday Con Man! 13 short years ago you were just a pup!! You have grown into such a handsome young man and I'm so happy to be your mom!

Fancy Toes!

2011-08-09T10:59:00.000-07:00

I don't exactly have the best looking feet in the world but I had to share this pedicure that I gave myself. I was reading a blog and one of the girls shared a new product from Sally Hansen. So the next time I was at Walmart I found them. Kinda pricy ($8.50) but they have several different designs. Basically they are stickers that you put on your nails, then trim and file away the excess sticker. Pretty easy and you don't have to wait for them to dry. I did put a clear coat on top just to make them last a little longer. Mine are supposed to look like lace, do they? Sure we will say that they do! LOL

Tractor Boy

2011-08-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I watched Kohler and Hadley while Breck was teaching Zumba. We kept Kohler entertained the ENTIRE time by playing with Conner's tractors. He lined them all up on my kitchen table and was perfectly content! I couldn't resist taking a few pictures! He was definately in tractor heaven. :)

Mr. Beef

2011-08-01T06:23:00.000-07:00

This spring Conner decided that he wanted to purchase a calf. He had saved all of his money that he had earned working at the dairy farm and paid for his calf. He lovingly named him Mr. Beef. Once Mr. Beef was old enough he was moved to my dad's pasture which is only about 2 blocks from our house. Conner was on cloud 9! He makes SEVERAL trips each day to check on and feed Mr. Beef. I am so proud of Conner for taking on this huge responsibility. He never forgets about Mr. Beef and has been so good about taking care of him. He doesn't complain and enjoys his new pet!

C-P (Conner Petersen, aka: Mr. Beef)

My Weekend in Review...

2011-07-29T06:24:00.000-07:00

Quick disclaimer: I was bored this weekend and that triggered the lame picture taking and the following post. :) And sometimes it's good to post about my accomplishments, no matter how minor.

I have always hated how our ever growing collection of DVD's had been stored in the past (stacked at least 3 deep in the entertainment center, some in our bedroom, some in the kids' bedrooms). Now they are ALL in one place and get this.... Alphabetized! I spent Friday and Saturday night putting together the new shelves and organizing all of the DVD's. I originally bought one bookshelf for BOOKS but that changed to DVD's and a few books.

Saturday was my usual routine, dropped the kids of to their dad at noon :(, Clay was home so he took me to Cafe Sabor for lunch/dinner and then we did some shopping in Logan. Clay is seriously so much fun to shop with, whether it's wandering around Walmart or where ever he is quite entertaining. I love this man!!!

Unfortunately, Clay had to leave Sunday morning so after he was gone I put these products to work and got the house all cleaned and smelling good!!! Now if that's not a HUGE accomplishment I don't know what is! ;)Monday was a little different for me, I have never got the day off for the 24th of July before. I was home and ALONE. No kids, no husband. If I don't stay busy, I go crazy and get really bummed out so I kept busy from the moment my eyes opened in the morning. First thing I went out and took a spin around the house a few times on this....

Then decided that this needed a bath and her insides cleaned up a bit! Love my ride!!

Then got a knock at the door and this fun packaged was delievered! MADE MY DAY!

Put these two machines to work pretty much ALL weeekend long!

Made my way to my favorite place and finished up a scrapbook page! WHAT??? Did I just say a scrapbook page?? It's been a long time, needless to say! But I'm back!
Ahhhh, my sweet baby girl! Did I mention she's EIGHT??? I miss having a baby! (Sometimes)

And last but not least, my mommy stopped by Monday night and thought I should shake the dust off these puppies! LOL I love walks with my mom! Thanks for the motivation! It hurt, but it was good pain! I've missed this!So there you have it! I know I'm weird! Forgive me. It's me.

Courtney's Special Day

2011-07-28T11:04:00.000-07:00

On July 2nd, my sweet 8 year old, Courtney, was baptised by her Uncle Bryan (my older brother). It was a wonderful day and I am so proud of her and the choice she made to become a member of the church. I am so grateful to my brother for baptising and confirming her, he did a wonderful job and gave her a wonderful, special blessing. I hope she will always remember this day!! I'm also so thankful for the support of my family who were all there for Courtney.

Courtney & Uncle Bryan

Annual Peonies

2011-07-28T06:16:00.000-07:00

Each year the walkway to my front porch is lined with these beautiful peonies. They bloomed a little later than usual due to the late spring we had this year. I look forward these the hot pink beauties so much! And this year they didn't disappoint! I'm not much of a gardener and don't really enjoy doing yard work but I love seeing these peonies come to life. It means summer is just around the corner and warmer temperatures.

Rice Pudding

2011-07-13T06:22:00.000-07:00

When I was a little girl, there weren't many meals that my dad cooked. But one thing he was famous for was making us Rice Pudding on Sunday nights before bed. Sure, it's not hard to make but this was something my dad always did for us. And it still hits the spot to this day and brings back so many memories of my childhood. I decided to buy some and let my kids try it to see if they liked it as much as I did. Conner loved it! Courtney is still aquiring a taste for it! ;)

Stiring away! Can't let it scald!

Family Picnic

2011-07-07T07:52:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks before school got out I got to go have a picnic with this beautiful little girl! It was fun to spend some time with her and have lunch together!

Love this girl whole bunches!

An attempt at pictures...

2011-07-05T10:58:00.000-07:00

Why is it no matter how hard we try to get a decent picture of all of these kids it never works out. Oh well. We tried. And failed. Miserably.

Love this one!

My stud muffin Conner.Courtney

HadleyKenzlieKohlerJensyn

Dance Recital

2011-06-27T06:08:00.000-07:00

Back in May, Courtney performed at her Dance/Cheer Recital at Mountain Crest. She was such a cutie and did a fantastic job! This is the first year that she has taken cheer and she loves going to her class each week. I am so amazed at her progress and what a great little cheerleader she is turning out to be! I am so proud of you sweet girl!

Summer

2011-06-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

One of MANY unfinished projects that is now finished! Thanks to my dear friend Christy and her husband for their woodworking skills. :)

Menu Plate

2011-06-20T09:14:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a little project I made for all of my friends for their birthdays. I cheated and ordered the vinyl pre cut and installed it on a plate. (I have since designed my own vinyl that I have been using and giving for shower/wedding gifts) I included the easel and a dry erase marker. Oh and some homemade crocheted hot pads to go along with it.

*You might be wondering why my menu doesn't include Monday or Saturday?? Well I don't have my kids those days so what's the point? Typically it doesn't include Sunday either but it just so happened that it was my turn for Sunday dinner! :)

Teacher Appreciation Week

2011-06-16T07:31:00.000-07:00

Ok, sorry for the lack of my blogging lately. I've been so frustrated with blogger!! I posted this post a few weeks ago and it just disappeared. Ugh!! I'm going to try harder to keep my little ol blog updated, but I think I've said that before....

The first week in May was Teacher Appreciation Week. The PTA president called me and asked if I would make a poster to hang on the door of Courtney's classroom. Even though I didn't know how I was going to pull it off I agreed to do it and made it happen. I stayed up until 3am to get it done. But as many of you know me... I can't say no and I also couldn't pass up an opportunity to be creative. My Cricut and I burned the midnight oil and came up with this....

I have an obsession with owls lately...

To keep along with the owl theme I decided to make these cute little treats for all of the kids in Courtney's class. Did I need to? Was I asked to? NO!! But, like I had anything else better to do! ;)

I love how they turned out!"Hoot Hoot Hooray for Mrs. Petterborg!"

And finally, a little gift for Mrs. Petterborg. (Yes, this photo was staged, I can't help myself!)

Bear Lake Projects

2011-05-03T17:09:00.000-07:00

Every year my closest friends and I spend an extended weekend at a condo in Bear Lake. It is something we plan months in advance and look forward to each and every year. It's a nice escape from reality and the routine of every day life and we always have a great time. This year we went a little later than usual towards the end of March, instead of January or February. We chat, scrapbook, play games, work on crafts, watch tv, chat, sit in the hot tub, go for drink runs and enjoy a relaxing getaway. This year I completed 3 crafts!!! Go me!!
Birthday Balloon Wreath

Bunny

Chicks

Cheer

2011-04-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday Courtney had her pictures taken for her cheer class. After they were done, I did a mini photo shoot with her on the front porch. I'm a total rookie but what a willing, adorable subject to photograph! Love this girl and the fact that she will always be my model! Such a cutie! Oh and I must give credit to Breck for the hairdo! Thanks for your help Breck!

Farmer Conner

2011-04-18T08:49:00.000-07:00

Conner needed some pictures of the dairy farm for a school project he was working on so here are more fun cow pictures...

I love this photo of him observing the cattle. So cute! He looks pretty official! The cows just love him!

Miss Maysa

2011-04-15T08:26:00.000-07:00

My little sister, Keesha's new sweet baby girl!!

Maysa Rinderknecht

March 30, 2011

4:58 p.m.

5 pounds 13 ounces

18 inches long

Wrinkly new baby feet with bandaids! :(

Long fingers like her mommy!

Once I freed her little hands to take a picture she started sucking her thumb! Cutest thing ever!

We are all so excited to have Maysa here!! It's so much fun to have a new little snuggly bundle to love!!! I was pretty proud when Keesha decided to name her Maysa!! Clay and I had chosen that name if we had a little girl!

Snuggles with Daddy

2011-03-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

I love the relationship that Courtney has with Clay. She is content to be by him watching tv or whatever as long as she is with him. Plus I think she might know that she has Clay wrapped around her little finger. I'm just glad that they are mine!!

Cheerleading Battle Wounds

2011-03-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

Courtney came home from her Cheer class a few weeks ago with these lovely bruises on her little knees! She must really be giving it her all! Ouchie!!!

100 Things...

2011-03-14T06:24:00.000-07:00

This is what I made Clay for Valentine's Day. Cheap and simple but from the heart. I guess sometimes those kind of gifts are the best. It was quite easy to come up with 100 things that I love about this man. Valentine's Day was pretty rough for me this year, spending the day working and then going home alone. I wish I could have spent the day with you babe. I do love you and all the things about you.

'Owl' always be your friend...

2011-03-06T13:33:00.000-08:00

These are the Valentines that I made for Courtney's Class this year! There's just something about homemade Valentines that I love!! I got them done way back in January and I truly enjoying working on them. I have a bit of an Owl fettish...

"Owl always be your friend"

It's a Party!!!

2011-03-04T06:04:00.000-08:00

Friday, February 11 was Courtney's 8th birthday! EIGHT years old!!! I don't know where the time has went!? Court is such a sweet, smart, talented girl and is growing up way too fast! I did my best to make her day special. She was really sad that Clay wasn't going to be here to celebrate with her so we did our best with cell phone videos back and forth, next best thing. She could barely sleep the night before her birthday because she was so excited. I was worried she was going to be disappointed because we weren't having the "friend party" like we did last year. But she was a good sport and we still had a party, family style.

Beautiful Birthday Girl!!

We started the day by putting her name on the radio and she won the daily birthday drawing for the second year in a row!! What a lucky girl? Cept this year I won't be a loser mom and we will actually use the certificates!

She won a cake from Shaffer House, lunch or dinner at Papa Kelsey's, ice cream at Casper's and a special gift at Hallmark.

I stayed up late the night before and decorated the kitchen for her!

And.... made an attempt at Cake Pops. Cute, pretty to look at, quite tasty, but A LOT of work! Good thing you are worth it Courtney! ;)

I ordered 'Hello Kitty' cupcakes from Sam's Club as her "cake" for something different this year. I think this is the way to go, less expensive and still cute. 30 cupcakes decorated as I requested and half of them were white cake and the other half were chocolate, only $13!!

Invited the family over and we partied it up! Even Lilly had a good time!

Court got spoiled rotten with gifts!

Hannah Montana snuggie from the Lott's...

An outfit for La La Loopsy from the Rinderknecht's...

A teacup piggie from Grandma & Grandpa...

Fuzzoodles from Conner...

And finally a decent digital camera from mommy and daddy.

Stuck candles in some cupcakes... and taaadaaa!! It's a Party!!

Then we had a sleepover with Kenzlie and Hadley!! The girls had fun playing her new Head Bandz game. They got to watch movies and had homemade waffles for breakfast!

I hope that you had a wonderful birthday baby girl! And yes, you will always be my baby!

Lilly's First Pig Tails

2011-03-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

The pictures say it all...

What a cutie!!!

Random OCD

2011-02-28T10:25:00.000-08:00

Call me crazy, I really don't care. OCD? Maybe, but one of the many routines of my day is to set out the kids' clothes for the next day. Our mornings go so much smoother if this is done the night before. It eliminates any drama in the morning and everyone is happier, especially me. I even try to do this with my own clothes and jewelry and life is just better because I do. I'm so not a morning person so anything to keep smiles on everyones faces works for me! Give it a try, it just might be one of your new routines.

7 going on 17

2011-02-26T12:03:00.000-08:00

Courtney got these press on nails for Christmas and she has been begging me to wear them. So I finally gave in and here are the results...

She really does have pretty hands...
7 going on 17 I tell ya! I still love having a girl! Even with the drama! ;)

Little Bookworm

2011-02-25T06:41:00.000-08:00

The other night I found Courtney in her room reading the book she got for Christmas. I'm so glad that she has a love for reading like her mommy and brother. AND it's an added bonus that she's reading one of my most favorite books from my childhood. I remember begging my mom for the book at the Book Fair at school and only wanting the book because I thought the picture of Ramona on the front cover was the cutest ever! Luckily, the book was a great read and I read almost all the books written by Beverly Cleary. I found my old copy of Ramona Quimby, Age 8 the other day and told Courtney how it was my favorite! Love nostalgia! :)

I mean seriously, how could you resist this cute little face??

Farm Boy

2011-02-24T06:18:00.000-08:00

Conner has been working for Paul Parker's Dairy Farm for several months. Every day after school he goes and helps feed and milk the cows. He looks forward to going to "work" everyday and has learned so much about earning money and being responsible. It has been so good for his self confidence and I am so proud of him. He pays attention more to how much things cost and really wants to purchase a cow of his own. He has saved over $200, which is pretty impressive for a 12 year old. I hope that you continue this great work ethic and enjoy every moment!!

I snapped these photos one day as he was coming out of the "Milk House"
What a handsome young man?? Love you sweet boy!

The Morning Routine

2011-02-23T05:56:00.000-08:00

Weird photo I know. This is my morning, my routine, my life. The title says it all. Some girls need all the help they can get. Nuff said.

My Favorite Day

2011-02-22T06:59:00.000-08:00

Yep, my most favorite day of the week is Tuesday. Why Tuesday? For lots of reasons, Monday is over, the week is on the move and more importantly it's when my kids come home!!! I can't wait to get off work so I can see their little faces and welcome them home! I love hearing that they missed me and they look forward to Tuesday as much as I do. Their hugs are the best and our home isn't the same without them. These two are the light of my life! Tuesday is a great day!!!! :)

Upgrade

2011-02-20T11:48:00.000-08:00

As many of you know my cell phone is ALWAYS with me! I even sleep with the darn thing! When you have a husband that travels the United States, my phone is more of a lifeline. I don't know what I would do without it. I have had this old Blackberry for just about 4 years and it's seen it's better day! If it wasn't for the rubber case I wouldn't be able to keep the cover over the battery. Yikes! Needless to say it was time for an upgrade...

Goodbye Blackberry :(

Hello iPhone!!! :)

I've had my iPhone for about 2 weeks and I'm so glad that I switched! So much more user friendly and FAST!!! I love all of the functions and now have an addiction to Angry Birds!

A Home Lunch

2011-02-18T09:17:00.000-08:00

One of my goals for 2011 is to take more photos. Photos of the everday, mundane things that make up our lives, who we are, the things we do, and then hopefully document them and put them into a scrapbook. So you may see some strange posts from me this year of these random photos. But like I said, it is who I am and part of my everyday life. Here goes...

Ever since I started working at my new job I have made a point to bring a lunch from home everyday. One item on an ever growing list of ways I could cut back. Every little bit helps. This is a new routine for me. I bought this cute little insulated lunch bag at Old Navy a while ago and have put it to good use!

Brownies

2011-02-17T07:15:00.000-08:00

Thought I would share my favorite recipe for homemade Brownies. Give them a try, you so won't be disappointed! These are Keesha's favorite too and she hates chocolate! ;)

Brownies

4 eggs

2 tsp. vanilla

Melt together:

2 cubes butter

1/2 cup cocoa

1/2 tsp. salt

2 cups sugar

2 cups flour

1 tsp. baking powder

Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Top with marshmallows and bake 10 minutes. Ice when cooled.

My cute brownie helpers!! Courtney and Hadley
Enjoy!

What a kid??

2011-02-15T09:01:00.000-08:00

I got the camera out and of course Courtney went into modeling mode! I love that she likes her picture taken and will pose for me and smile that beautiful smile for me to capture forever! (I know it won't last, so I enjoy it when I can.) This girl is so much fun and has been saying some of the funniest things lately. I posted a few of them on Facebook but I need to blog them as well:

One night Courtney came into our bedroom and was acting all stressed out and said with a sigh.. "Mom, I have a crush crisis! I'm in love with two boys!" WHAT???? Needless to say we got the giggles.

Me: "Court, what's the name of the boy that you like?"

Court: "You mean my true love?"

Wow! She is way too young to think that she has already found her true love! LOL

Last week she woke up with a swollen eye and said, "What? I have bags under my eyes!! Bags are supposed to be cute accessories not things attached to my face!!!" Never a dull moment when this little ham is around!

I love you Courtney!!

Happy Valentines Day!!

2011-02-14T11:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Blocks

2011-01-22T07:22:00.000-08:00

More projects that I have been working on:

And these are actually for sale if anyone is interested, $20 per set.

Front (SOLD)

Back (SOLD)
Front
Back
Front

Back

Front

Back

Christmas Day 2010

2011-01-20T07:12:00.000-08:00

Twas the night before Christmas...

Santa was here!!!

He brought some fun things for Courtney,
and Conner too!!

And even though Lilly got woke up for the celebration she was still happy!

Checking out what Santa brought.

And what??? Grandma made the girls blankets that matched their pj's from Christmas Eve. Could it get any better?? Too fun!

And Conner got some insulated coveralls, a hat and some gloves so he can stay warm while he goes to work. He has been helping out at Paul Parker's dairy for the last couple of months, which he loves to do. I'm so proud of him for it!

Love this!!

I was a little lacking in photos this year. I had a pretty bad cold and wasn't feeling real great for most of the weekend. :( Other than some yucky sickness in our home we had a wonderful Christmas. I am so thankful for this time of year and for the true reason we celebrate! What a wonderful time of year!

Christmas Eve 2010

2011-01-18T07:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve will always consist of mom's yummy homemade chili and rolls for dinner, watching Christmas Vacaction and opening pj's from Grandma and Grandpa! I love this tradition! This year she made Courtney, Hadley and Kenzlie matching pj's that were absolutely adorable! Courtney was SOOO excited, she looks forward to them each year. And it's so special that they are hand made by grandma.

Grandma found these matching monkey slippers!! Too stinking cute!

Conner's pj pants! Thumbs up! Your so cute bud!

The triplets modeling their new pj's and slippers. ;)

And a book from mom! I totally spaced taking a pic of Conner with his new "Diary of a Whimpy Kid" book. What a slacker mom?? Sorry Conner!
I remember reading this book when I was about Courtney's age, had to share one of MY favorites with her. Love Ramona books!

Visiting Grandpa

2011-01-16T14:41:00.000-08:00

On Chrismas Eve we made our traditional trip to Sunshine Terrace to see Clay's dad. This was Lilly's first trip to see Great Grandpa. He was really excited to see everyone and we all loved visiting with him.

Lilly Bug

The whole clan! :)

Christmas Baking Day!

2011-01-14T07:33:00.000-08:00

The Sunday before Christmas my sisters and I got together at my house and made all kinds of treats to give as gifts. We made an entire day of it and was lots of work but even more fun!

We made caramels...

Andes Mint Cookies
Pretzel Hugs
A double batch of Sugar Cookies

and even more sugar cookies

and Peanut Butter Bars!!

A big thanks to both of my sisters for their help! Ok Breck, you should be able to master the sugar cookies on your own! ;)

Teacher Gifts

2011-01-12T07:13:00.000-08:00

The yearly tradition of note cards for all of my kids teachers.

Conner has 5 teachers at Willow Valley.

And Courtney really only has one but after the first month of school they added a new 2nd grade teacher and Courtney was chosen to move to the "new" class. We wanted to remember her original teacher as well. :)

Halloween 2010

2011-01-10T07:11:00.000-08:00

I didn't get to see my kids this year for Halloween, which made me really sad! But I did have some cuties come say 'trick or treat'.

Hadley the Good Witch

Kohler the Cow

(I remember when Conner and Courtney wore this costume handmade by my mom)

Kenzlie the Pumpkin

Jensyn the Turtle

And finally little Lilly the Duck

Wood Projects

2011-01-06T07:03:00.000-08:00

A few of my craft projects from this fall, so glad to have them done! Now I need to work on all the other unfinished projects, so when they are complete I will post more photos! :)

Hadley's 5th Birthday

2010-12-29T07:54:00.000-08:00

Back in October, sweet Hadley Jean Noelle turned the big 5!!! Ok, so I turned 35 as well but I'm not really wanting to post about me. When we arrived at Hadley's house for her party, she was sitting on the front porch with her little table and chair waiting for us to arrive. We all had to "sign-in" for her party. It was THE cutest thing!!!

Hadley is in preschool now and her teacher made her this little mini birthday cake just for her!

She REALLY wanted the Michael Jackson DVD for her birthday so that's what I decided to give her. She was SO excited!

It was a fun birthday and I'm so glad that I get to share it with Had!!

Home Makeover

2010-12-28T07:29:00.000-08:00

This is the house where Clay grew up out in Smithfield. Ever since his dad has been in Sunshine Terrace it has been in need of repair. Luckily, I was able to call in one of my connections through work and we transformed this.....

Before

Into this...

After

I'm so happy with the way it turned out! The outside was all insulated before the new siding was installed, so that should help keep Mary warm! Thanks to Maughan Construction for a job well done! Since these photos were taken we have recarpeted the living room and put vinyl flooring in the kitchen! Happy home makeover!!!

Change

2010-12-23T07:19:00.000-08:00

It's been a really long time since I have blogged so I will try and catch up. First of all, Wes, Ashley and Lilly moved in with us back in October. It's fun to have a baby in the house and to be able to get to know them all better. We have all had to make adjustments and are enjoying having them with us. Lilly is growing like a weed and is now 3 months old! The time goes by so fast!

Secondly, on November 19th I lost my job. Nothing could have prepared me for this change. I was told that because of the economy they were having to let me go. I worked there for 5 years and dedicated many, many hours to them. My position changed quite a bit during those years and I had wore just about every hat in the company. I really enjoyed my job and miss my coworkers, homeowners and subcontrators. It was heartbreaking and is still hard to talk about. I had a strange insecure feeling during that week but tried to shrug it off. I have never felt so worthless and yet in desperate search of my next career path. This was the worst possible time to be job hunting and with the holidays right around the corner I had to move fast. After many tears, I updated my reseme and dropped it off to a local company. I had also changed my status on Facebook that I was looking for a new job. Luckily, one of my sweet friends read it and informed me that her position was available and that I should send her my reseme. I was given the opportunity to interview with both companies that had received my reseme and was actually offered both jobs! I accepted the position at Raymond Construction and felt this decision was best for my family. Luckily, I was only out of work for 6 days!! What a blessing! I started at Raymond Construction on December 1st and am loving it so far. Commercial construction is a lot different from residential, but I am grateful for my previous experience so it's not too foreign. My new coworkers are so nice and fun to work with. I just wish I would have been able to enjoy the little bit of time off I had instead of being so stressed out and worried about employment.

Change is good, it forces us to be stronger, learn from the past and move forward to the future. The following quote has stuck with me through all of the "changes" throughout my life and it definately rings true.

"As your faith is strengthened you will find that there is no longer the need to have a sense of control, that things will flow as they will, and that you will flow with them, to your great delight and benefit." -Emmanuel Teney

Andes Mint Cookies

2010-11-10T07:07:00.000-08:00

Andes Mint Cookies

3/4 cup Butter

1 1/2 cup Brown Sugar

2 tablespoons water

Melt in saucepan over medium heat until melted and add:

2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips, stiring until completely melted.

Cool for 10 minutes. Pour into a mixing bowl and beat in 2 Eggs.

Add: 2 1/2 cups Flour

1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda

1/2 teaspoon Salt

Mix together and chill for about 45 minutes. Roll into balls (1-1 1/2"), flatten slightly and place on cookie sheet. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes... out of the oven place an unwrapped Andes Mint on cookie, allow to melt, swirl chocolate like icing. Let cool.

The End of Summer

2010-10-22T08:33:00.000-07:00

The weekend of September 17-19th was the official end of summer. :( Our last camping trip. I hate seeing our weekends away come to an end. I enjoy every second of the escape to the mountains of Blacksmith Fork. This particular weekend was a little more memorable than most because for starters I pulled the trailer up with the pickup ALL by myself! Clay was working and I could stay home and be miserable or buck up and do it myself. So, of course I chose the latter of the two. Hooked it up and here we are!!! I was a nervous wreck, but it really wasn't that bad. My dad helped back it into our spot and we were set! Proud of myself, heck yes I am! And I think I'm entitled. ;)

Clay didn't end up arriving until the wee hours of the morning on Saturday because his little grand daughter, Lilly was born at 12:03 am. I'm glad he was able to be there with Wes and Ashley, I will post more about this...

The leaves are just starting to change colors, love this view of our campground!!

We snipped green beans and mom bottled them while Clay and I ran to the hospital so I could meet the little Lilly Bean.

We had dutch oven bbq chicken, vegetables and apple cobbler! DEEEELISH!!! Makes my mouth water just thinking about it!

So sad that the summer is over and Fall is in the air. I am so grateful for the time that we get to spend together as a family and make memories. There is no place I'd rather be.

My Hair Girls

2010-10-21T08:09:00.000-07:00

Ever since school started, Hadley comes to my house in the mornings three days a week so I can fix her hair cute for preschool. Breck has to be to work at 6:30am, which makes a very early morning for Hadley. Usually, Hadley always wants her hair fixed "like Court" so most mornings they sport identical hairdo's. What some cute girls?!?!

Announcing...

2010-10-20T08:18:00.000-07:00

The sweet arrival of

Lilly Annelynn DeMille

September 18, 2010

12:03 a.m.

5 lbs. 14 oz.

18 1/2 inches

Proud parents, Ashley and Wes

Proud Papa

It's official! I'm a grandma! Yikes!! Ok, ok, so I'm just a step grandma but still happy about it! Lilly is so teeny, tiny and we love her so much!

Happy First Birthday Jensyn!!

2010-10-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

Little Yensy is one!! It seems just like yesterday he was born! Where does the time go? Keesha had his party up at the pavillion at the square. We all had a great time! Opening presents

Jensyn is testing his little cake that he could play in...

He did NOT like it AT ALL!!! Cried and cried the whole time! What a kid?
Pirate cake
Happy Birthday cute boy!

More Camping...

2010-10-12T06:08:00.000-07:00

Just some random pictures of one of our camping trips this last summer.

Conner, Presley, Courtney and Tallen

We had corn on the cob for dinner and decided this was a redneck corn cob. :)

Clay and his buddy Jensyn (aka: Bert)

Jensyn thought he was pretty cool riding Graysen's bike.

Clay and Pepper in the trailer....grrrrr!!! No dogs in my trailer!!

The girls making bracelets...

One injury this particular weekend. The kids were playing on the ramp of Grandpa's enclosed trailer and Hadley stepped on a HUGE sliver and had to go to Instacare to have it cut out. Ouchie!!!

Hadley's sliver

The kids will spend hours playing in the gravel! Good thing they have shovels and buckets.
Lots of 4 wheeler rides given by Conner. What a stud?

Kenzlie and Graysen, ahhh, look they're holding hands. So sweet!

Kohler snacking on a Cheeto.

Fishing with sticks... hummmmm?? Conner said they were fishing for halibut, good luck bud!

Another great weekend with family and friends! So glad the Voth's and Nielsen's were able to join us!!! I'm already wishing it was summer again...

First Day of School 2010-2011

2010-09-24T06:47:00.000-07:00

I was so dreading the start of school, but it came quickly anyway. Where on earth did the summer go?? I was happy for the routine that school brings but not looking forward to the homework that comes with it. Not fun when you have a 7th grader!!!

I was good this year and didn't follow Conner into school with my camera in tow and embarrass the poor kid! This was hard for this picture taking mom!! I'm hoping for a fantastic year, sweet boy!

Courtney, on the other hand, is still young enough and doesn't mind the camera. Thank goodness! Before I know it she will be in middle school, uggg, don't EVEN want to think about that! Anyway, Court started 2nd grade this year and was SO excited to head to school.

Courtney & Mrs. Kenyon

What a cute 2nd grader! You are going to do great baby girl!

My Personal Gardener

2010-09-24T06:42:00.000-07:00

This summer, Conner has taken up the hobby of gardening. He had me plant 3 tomato plants on the side of the house. Unfortunately, we have only seen one, tiny tomato but, I think we planted them WAY too late in the season. Next year I will have to make sure we start much earlier. He has watered, fertilized and tended to his dear tomato plants and has enjoyed the process of watching them grow. I wish I had his desire for gardening, yard work and the like are not my favorite. I'd much rather be inside cleaning. Once that tomato had turned red he picked it and I made bacon & tomato sandwiches so he could eat the reward. I am so proud of you Conner! Keep up the good work! Next year we will do better.

Summer Fun

2010-09-23T06:24:00.000-07:00

Just some pics of Courtney one summer evening when she decided to run through the sprinkler in her clothes!!! Crazy girl!! Thanks for always being my model!

Summer Party

2010-09-22T06:23:00.000-07:00

Every year, my work has a summer party for the employees and their families. We have a cookout and the kids get to swim in the pool. Unfortunately, this year we had ugly black clouds, pouring rain, lightning and wind when we first got there. Luckily, after dinner the skies cleared and the kids were able to swim until after dark. It's always nice to have a get together outside of the workplace. It was just Courtney and I, but we had a great time!

Happy 12th Birthday Conner

2010-09-07T09:14:00.000-07:00

After we got home from the Family Reunion we celebrated Conner's 12th Birthday! I can't believe that I have a 12 year old! Where did the time go? It seems like yesterday I brought him home from the hospital and I became a mom! I love you son and I'm so proud of the young man that you are!

Conner has been quite the landscaper over the summer. He has enjoyed watering the lawn, mowing and helping with other outdoor chores. He is growing his own tomato plants so we threw in some fertilizer to help his plants. I couldn't resist!
Grandma really paid attention and got Conner a huge box of his favorite gum! What a funny kid??

Some GameCube games for entertainment! Not easy to find anymore.

And finally as requested, German Chocolate Cake!! I hope you had a wonderful birthday son!

Family Reunion

2010-09-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

Over the first weekend in August we had our annual Johnson Family Reunion. It's something that I look forward to each and every year! It was held at the Hyrum City Power Plant Campground and we were able to take our trailer up and stay the whole weekend. Courtney was especially excited this year and had asked about when we were going to have our "family meeting"? It took me a while to figure out what she was talking about but once I did, she meant the family reunion, not a family meeting. So cute!!

Jensyn & Jeremie

Breck & Keesha

Kohler

My dad

Part of the fun at the reunion is the raffle. Everyone brings items to raffle off and then we all buy tickets and enter to win the things that we want. Courtney wanted the flip flops that grandma brought and ended up getting two different pairs!

This is one of the raffle items that I made for the raffle. I think it turned out really cute, Happy Birthday for a girl on one side and...

Happy Birthday for a boy on the opposite side! My mom ended up winning them in the raffle, too funny!
Courtney with one of her many prizes! The kids had a water balloon fight and got drenched. Good times had by all!! Thanks Uncle Dave and Aunt Sheryl for making the reunion a success.

Courtney, Hadley, Kenzlie, Kortni and Natalie

Another Camping Weekend

2010-08-31T06:16:00.000-07:00

Our 2nd camping trip was much better in the weather department, in fact it was H-O-T!!! We had so much fun! Rode to Old Ephriam's grave on the 4-wheelers, made delicious meals, took naps, enjoyed the sunshine, colored and most importantly, relaxed! I could be here every weekend!!!

Pepper and Clay chillin in the shade.

The Rinderknecht's on the 4-Wheeler

Keesha and Kenzlie coloring, a camping tradition.

Jeremie basking in the sunshine! :)

Jensyn napping in the playpen with the bug net.

Hyrum Parade

2010-08-17T06:57:00.000-07:00

This was the first year that I haven't had my kids for the 4th of July parade, I missed them so much! Luckily these cuties were there!

Hadley & Kohler

Jensyn

Hadley & Kenzlie

Awesome military! So honored!

My dad, the Hyrum City Fire Chief!

Yea grandpa!!

Hyrum City float

Hyde Park City float, this was my very favorite, so cute!!MCHS
And Visionary Homes, my work peeps!

I hope everyone had a wonderful and safe 4th of July! One of my most favorite times of the year! So proud and blessed to live in the United States!!!

Kohler is ONE!!

2010-08-16T06:43:00.000-07:00

My little buddy Kohler turned ONE on June 25th! We gave him his present the day before his b-day which was on Keesha's birthday and I didn't even get any pictures of her! Probably cause I took all the pictures of her with her camera and not my own. Sorry Keesh! Kohler is such a cute little guy and he is so much fun to have around! I can't believe your are already one! He has just started walking on his own and it is the cutest thing ever! He blows kisses, says "hi" and waves bye to me every morning. He also does this pointing thing that his dad taught him when you say "you the man". Love this kid!!! Happy Birthday Kohler and Keesha!

Book Worm

2010-08-15T08:20:00.000-07:00

This summer Conner has finished reading the Cirque Du Freak series, that's 12 books people! I am so proud of him and I'm so glad that he has enjoyed reading to pass the time. It's one of my favorite things to do and wish I had more time to do it. He would read a book a week and then ask if I would buy him the next book. Luckily I got weekly coupons from Borders so it made it more affordable. I got these pictures of him one evening while he was reading, I love it!! Keep up the good work Conner!

Cookie Cutters

2010-08-14T08:01:00.000-07:00

Courtney went with her cousin Hadley to get a hair cut at Cookie Cutters and ever since, she has been begging for me to take her too! I caved and let her cut several inches of her beautiful hair off!! Yikes! It was pretty fun, she got to watch a movie while they cut her hair, they styled her hair, sprayed it with glitter, got a balloon and a cookie cutter. She was so excited and happy! And as it turns out she is still a beautiful girl! She is so much fun to pamper and take for stuff like this! Happy Times! :0)

Before

Wait!!!! Oh no! Yikes!!!! CHOP!!

During

After

Clay's Happy Birthday

2010-08-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

Nearly two months late posting this! Had to share some quick photos of Clay's birthday. We celebrated a day after his actual birthday so that the kids could be there. We had my family over for cake and ice cream and opened presents. He had just got off work, but he made it in time to party! :) I hope you had a great day! Love ya babe!

Grill basket for shrimp out on the grill!

A cute shirt! ;)

Weed eater from mom and dad.

German Chocolate Cake, yuck! Just kidding, it's just not my favorite!

1st Camping Trip

2010-08-12T18:39:00.000-07:00

The first camping trip of 2010 was a cold, rainy, miserable one. We didn't get to ride the wheelers and we spent most of the time in the trailer, except to cook. It was still nice to get away and relax! A much needed weekend!

Our home away from home! And with a new water heater! (long story there)

Yummy breakfast!

Hey there handsome!

The scenery, I love this place! No where else I'd rather be!

Guard Dog
Jensyn modeling his winter wear!

Peony Photoshoot

2010-08-12T06:40:00.000-07:00

I've been such a blog slacker!! I'm going to try to do a little catch up, so for starters I wanted to share my usual traditional photos of my peonys in bloom! They were a little slow this year because of the cold spring but once they decided to bloom it was a beautiful sight!! I LOVE these flowers and I'm so glad that I get to enjoy them each year. I just wish they lasted a little longer!

Happy 5th of July

2010-07-05T10:11:00.000-07:00

I love seeing the American flag in front of my house during the holidays that involve the flag!!! I hope everyone has a safe and fun day! I am so proud for my freedoms and for all of those who have fought and given their lives to keep us safe! God bless the USA!!

MFT Part 7: Books

2010-06-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

Books!!! I love to read and enjoy any opportunity that I get to dive into a good book! I've always been a Danielle Steel fan and I try to snatch up all of the books she has written. Thankfully, the Jenson Book store has a lot of her books that I can fill a bag for just $5.00. Haven't been there? If you need a new read, check it out! You can find them at 1977 Blacksmith Court, Suite B in Logan. For my local peeps! They have anything you can possibly imagine!

Happy Birthday Kenzlie!!

2010-06-26T07:14:00.000-07:00

On June 5th we celebrated my niece Kenzlie's 4th birthday. It was finally a nice day and we were able to have her party outside! There were a lot of people that came to see her open presents and have cake and ice cream! So much fun!

Blowing out the candles on her iCarly cake!

My sister made these darling cupcakes! Aren't they cute??

It was an iCarly birthday for sure!! :)

The sky that evening was absolutely beautiful!!!!

Humm, party pooper??? No, just a cutie pie!

Kohler cheesin it up for me!

An Interview with Courtney

2010-06-25T07:11:00.000-07:00

For Mother's Day, Courtney made me this little book "An Interview with Courtney, All about my mom!" It was THE cutest thing and I will treasure it forever! I had to take a few pictures of the pages to share.

What makes mom happy?

ME!
What do you and your mom do together?
Skrabook (scrapbook)

My mom always says...

I love you!

How are you and your mom the same?

Hire (hair)

How are you and your mom different?

Eyse (eyes)

I love that she tried spelling all of her answers! So, so sweet! Thank you Courtney! I love you to pieces! You make my day!

MFT Part 6: Scentsy

2010-06-18T06:08:00.000-07:00

I'm back sharing some more of my favorite things!!! I know everyone has heard of or use Scentsy products, so if you haven't tried "Simply Irresistible" yet, you should. It is by far, my favorite of the smells. I love getting my house all cleaned and then warm up a little "Simply Irresistible", the name says it all. LOVE IT! It might just be one of your favorite things as well.

Cataract Surgery

2010-06-17T06:58:00.000-07:00

On May 27th, Clay had his left eye operated on again, this time to fix a cataract. Two years ago when he had sugery on his eye when the retina detatched, that surgery, in turn caused a cataract. He has had a horrible time with his vision lately and so we decided to move ahead to correct the cataract. I know how frustrated he gets when he can't see and so far it has helped out a lot. We had a great doctor and the surgery was quick and easy. We will find out next week if he still needs to wear a corrective lens in that eye, but we are hoping that he won't have to. Clay was only down for a couple of days and is pretty much back to normal, his eye is still pretty tender but with time it will heal and be good as new! I hope!

First Grade Program

2010-06-16T06:55:00.000-07:00

The week before school got out the cute little first graders put on a program for all of the parents. Each class had several lines that they all said together and they sang all of the songs that they have learned throughout the year. They all sounded great together and it was fun to be able to go and watch.

My little performer.

Gotta love the ragamuffin hair. Sorry love!

Dance Recital

2010-06-15T06:42:00.000-07:00

Before I get too far behind with my blogging, I better get busy posting some of the things that we have been up too. Last month was Courtney's Dance Recital at Mountain Crest, she did such a great job. She has really turned out to be quite the little dancer! So proud of this beautiful girl!

Courtney & Presley

Crock Pot Roast

2010-06-11T06:12:00.000-07:00

I just had to share a little trick when making a roast in the crock pot. If you want THE most tender, juicy roast you have ever tasted you need to try this! I made this roast last Saturday, simply to use the meat for sandwiches, and it didn't last long. Thaw your roast, then unpackage and generously rub Kosher salt all over the roast and then wrap it in plastic wrap and put in the refrigerater over night. Remove the plastic wrap and put in the crock pot with one package of dry Lipton Onion Soup Mix and a little bit of water on high for approximately 8 hours. The roast will fall apart easily and is de-licious!!!! The Kosher salt is the trick!!! AMAZING!! Easy dinner that everyone will love and will request again and again.

Spring

2010-06-10T06:41:00.000-07:00

Here is another set of letters that I finally finished up, now that Summer is here. Well, I'm hoping that summer is getting close! If we could get rid of this rainy weather. Now off to my next project!! (Believe it or not I'm already working on Christmas gifts!)

MFT Part 5: 101 Gourmet Cupcakes

2010-05-31T08:29:00.000-07:00

Although I don't own this cookbook, I have given it away as a gift to a couple people. One of those lucky people being my mom so it's easy enough to borrow when I need a quick, easy recipe for cupcakes. There are some amazing "gourmet cupcakes" in here that make you feel like quite the top-notch baker. I have tried the Peppermint cupcakes and also recently the Root Beer Float cupcakes. Y-U-M-M-Y!!! Loving it!

MFT Part 4: Apothecary Cabinet

2010-05-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Words do not describe my LOVE for this... my apothecary cabinet. I splurged a few years ago at Pottery Barn and added this to my scrapbook room. It is the perfect way to organize all my scrap crap and whats even better is that each of the individual drawers pull out completely and allows me to see my treasures! Not to mention that it's just stinking cute!! And a perfect addition to my decor.

MFT Part 3: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

2010-05-23T08:25:00.000-07:00

Ok it has been established that I am a bit of an OCD clean freak. And I have to admit that it's something that I'm proud of. No, my house is not always as clean as I would like but it sure is nice to find products out there to help with my obsession. If you haven't used the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, you are missing out. This little inexpensive tool is the bomb!! And truly MAGIC! I challenge anyone with stainless steel sinks to use this instead of Soft Scrub like I used to use. My sink is clean more often and in less time with no gritty residue. It takes crayon off of walls and a few years ago, removed black permanent marker from my brand new micro fiber couch! Another one of my VERY favorite things!

Happy Birthday Breckie!!

2010-05-22T08:31:00.000-07:00

Last Monday was my little sister, Breck's birthday. We had a little party at mom's, unwrapped presents and had cupcakes and ice cream. Breck is so funny! Always the life of the party, there's never a dull moment when she is around. She got an Ipod Nano, Itunes gift card and some jewelry. I hope you had a wonderful birthday Breckie! Love you!

The Best Job in the World!!

2010-05-18T06:34:00.000-07:00

The job that I am talking about is being a mom and it truly is the best job in the world. Mother, mumma, mommy, mom, ma and sometimes Conner calls me woman! Today was Mother's Day and thankfully I was able to see my kids for a couple of hours. Although it wasn't as long as I would have liked, I am grateful for the precious hours I had with them, taking pictures, playing chess and admiring their smiles. Being a mom is by far the hardest job I have but it is also the most rewarding. There is nothing sweeter than hearing "I love you's" from my children and feeling them wrap their arms around me after work on Tuesday's. I always used to worry that I wouldn't be able to have kids and I am so glad that I had two precious angels choose me to be their mom. Conner and Courtney, it is an honor to be your mom and I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. Always know that I am here for you for anything you could possibly need and I will be your biggest cheerleader and supporter. I want you to both learn and grow and be respectful human beings. I am so proud of you! I miss you so much when I am not with you and I think of you always. I love you 'mountain to mountain, sky to ground'.