God Bless us Everyone!!!!!!

Merry Christmas!!!

Happy Birthday!!!

I am officially 30 years old!!!! AAAAAHHHHHHH, Happy Birthday to me!!!!! I love life! I love my family! I love my friends! Today was a good day! My husband and I went out to the city to shop last night and stayed in a hotel with no kids. The bed was awesome, I have never slept on a bed that good at a hotel, so I had a wonderful nights sleep!!!
We got to my mom and dad's to pick up our kids! They each had a gift for me, it was cute, some of the things they picked out....Thanks mom, for all your help with that, and for always making my birthday stand out from Christmas!!!! I loved everything I received, but loved being with my husband and kids the most, and my parents and sisters! Thanks you guys! I love being around family!
And the one thing that I got to do, which was better then I thought...... My daddy taught me how to play chess. I know.... I should have known, growing up in a houseful of boys right??? Nope, never learned so I learned something that I haven't learned in 30 years!!!! I would always tease my dad about how he never taught me how to play because he favored the boys!! (I think it was because I never had a desire to learn) Surprisingly, I liked it. I think I'll be able to play my husband or any of my brothers (or my dad again) and keep up a good fight!!! Yeah DAD!!!!! Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to teach me! I had fun, and I know you never favored the boys over me because I was always toooooooo DANG CUTE!!!
Thanks to everyone who thought of me and called or gave me something special for This day!!! Especially Ragan, my house smells great!
Have a Merry Christmas everyone!!!!

Reasons why???

I hate it when it has been a while since I have blogged, but here are the reasons why????
Saturday December 6th: My grandpa passed away (my mom's dad)

Sunday December 7th: Get together with the family

Monday December 8th: Mom and I went to Salt Lake to get flowers for the funeral.

Tuesday December 9th: Went to Tabiona to help with casket spray and flowers, and just to be with my mom (she was feeling lonely and sad)

Wednesday December 10th: Went to mortuary to help dress my grandpa! Then went for a late breakfast (a different feeling after dressing a dead person) But I have to give it to my aunt Brenda for stepping up (with my mom) and doing it, I'm not sure she has ever been to a funeral, ever... or atleast a viewing, she doesn't believe in funerals, but this was her dad, and she did great even though it was hard for her!

Thursday December 11th: Finishing odds and ends, practicing singing (someone roped me into singing at the funeral, got together with the family again!

Friday December 12th: Got up, got all the kids ready went to the viewing and the funeral! Went to the graveside in Myton.....yes, Myton (what a hole! no punn intended!) Went back and ate at the church! Got together at Uncle Rod's house for our traditional family Christmas party, that wasn't traditional this year. Some of the family felt like we shouldn't be celebrating since grandpa just died! So we honored their wishes! I think grandpa was disappointed though, he wouldn't have wanted us to do that!

Saturday December 13th: Emotionally drained, but had to drive to mom and dad's.... Jacob was out from Texas and I wanted to spend as much time with him as we could. Stayed over at mom and dads

Sunday December 14th: Went to church with my mom and dad, because my dad was put in as the first counselor in the bishopric in his ward. Crazy. I thought he had his turn, but looks like they need him again!!! He is an amazing man, and I am grateful for his strength and support. The new bishop put it nicely..... My dad is a "ROCK". And he is! Later that night, we went to family night at my cousins!

Monday December 15th: AHHHHHHHH.... relaxed and read my scriptures for almost two hours in bed (after I got the kids to school) Cleaned the house etc. etc. etc.

Yesterday was a regular day, and today it's back to normal. I am exhausted. I don't even care about Christmas right now!!! BAHHHH HUMMMMMM BUGGGGGG!!!!!

Long post, but thought I would explain my last week and a half!
CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I saw this on my friends blog and thought it would be fun

My Eight Alter Egos
1. My rock star name: *Sandy Excursion*
{First pet and current car}

2. My gangsta name: *Butterfinger, no bake*
{Favorite candy bar and favorite cookie}

3. My detective name: *Purple Monkey*
{Favorite color and favorite animal}

4. My Star Wars name: *Allja of none*
{First three letters of last name and first two letters of first name then the word "of" then a medication you are on}

5. My superhero name: *The Red Fiji*
{2nd favorite color and favorite drink with "The" in front}

6. My Nascar name: *Evelyn Martha*
{First names of your grandmothers}

7. My "lover" name: *Brown Sugar m&m's*(that could be a new m&m's flavor)
{Name of your favorite perfume/cologne and your favorite candy}

8. Witness-protection name: *Ralph* (My mom doesn't have a middle name
{Mother's and father's middle names}

More

I am thankful for

1. Electricity
2. Organic food
3. Genealogy
4. Flip-Flops
5. The Priesthood
6. My parents
7. Paper weights
8. My friend who designs blogs (I wish I had a Christmas Design!!!) Oh, and by the way if you guys want to enter a drawing for a free Christmas blog design, there is a link to your left (blogger boutique), just under our picture, click there and enter!!!!
9. Coconut cream pie (I apoligize to my family for my coconut cream pie this year, it was not the specialty that it was supposed to be, I tried something different and it just didn't work! Next time.)
10. Voss water bottles!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone, I hope you were able to spend time with your families and were able to roll home(ha, ha....... from eating so much!)
I have had a good time, Last night our family just sat around visiting! It ended up at the end of the night being me and Dave, my brothers,and my dad, conversation drifted from gospel subjects to politics to anything in between! I have an amazing family and I am so thankful for them.
Here is my List of more things I'm grateful for!
1. My siblings (especially my brothers, I miss them a lot.... It's o.k. twins.... I still love you, just see you more!)
2. Modern transportation
3. Chilly winter nights
4. Pumpkin pie
5. Holiday Movies
6. Christmas decorations
7. Music
8. Calculators (especially for big figures...sometimes the calculator works better than my brain.... well most times!)
9. Time
10. Thanksgiving FOOD,,,,, YUUUUUMMMMMMYYYYYYYY!!!!!

Gratitude!

It has been a little while since I posted. I just liked my 100 list soooo much I decided to keep it up for a while!
Of Course Thanksgiving is tomorrow. And for the next few days I am going to post of something that I am really grateful for! Some may be profound, some may be simple and some may be crazy, who knows, I haven't even thought of any to put down yet, I'll do it as I'm typing! Here it goes!
Things I am GRATEFUL for!
1. I'll start with the obvious.....MY FAMILY, Who mean the world to me!!!!
both immediate and extended!
2. The gift of LOVE!
3. Literature!
4. The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints!
5. The smell of Apples and cinnamon!
6. That I am healthy!
7. My friends, with which life would not be the same without!
8. That my house is sold and may close before Christmas!!!
9. My Heavenly Father, My brother, Jesus Christ and the blessings they so willing give to my family!
10. LIFE!!!! Thank you, Thank you for my life, it couldn't be better!!!!!!!

100th Post......Celebration

I had planned on posting something fun for my 100th post, but almost let it slip away, thanks Ragan for catching it. I think my friend Julie posted on her 100th post, 100 things about herself, or something (I could be wrong!). I'm going to do something similar, I am going to give you 100 lines of words to live by. It took me a while to think of all of them, but I think I have 100 now! To be a little more morbid, these are words of advice I would give to my kids, if I were to die. Since I'm not dying......These are my living "Words to LIVE by.". These are as much for myself as anyone! I know 100 things is long, but read them, maybe it will inspire you, they work for wherever you are or whatever situation you may be in!!!!
These are in no particular order!

1. Follow your dreams
2. Don't be afraid to cry!
3. Laugh out LOUD!
4. Find new friends, but keep the old ones!!
5. Forgive Faster
6. Love longer
7. Kiss softly
8. Speak wisely
9. Celebrate LIFE!!!
10. Hug often
11. Remember quickly
12. Have fun
13. Drink lots of water
14. Let your light shine!
15. Control yourself
16. Deal with it!
17. Give 100%
18. Give Service
19. Get a massage
20. SING
21. Read the dictionary
22. Live with purpose
23. Search
24. Ponder
25. Pray.....Always
26. Educate yourself
27. Be surprised!
28. Use your imagination!
29. Go on a road trip!
30. Have respect!
31. Mind your manners!
32. Play in the rain!
33. Use air freshner
34. Go camping!
35. Be grateful for each new day!
36. Stay out of trouble!
37. Go to Church
38. Take a ride on a motorcycle!
39. Grow a garden
40. Visit the nursing home!
41. Pick fresh flowers.
42. Learn a new language
43. Wear a scarf
44. Hang Christmas lights!
45. Watch an eagle in flight!
46. Encourage others.
47. Read a good Book!!
48. Go out in STYLE!!
49.Have family night!
50. Wake up HAPPY!
51. Give someone a smile, and let them keep it!
52. Work hard
53. Find your talents and.... Use them!
54. Pay your tithing!
55. Shave regularly
56. Learn to swim.
57. Play the piano.
58. Own a good supply of coloring books!
59. Get a good hair cut!
60. Spend time with your loved ones...(you never know how long you may have them!)
61. LOVE MUSIC
62. Cherish the little things!
63. Get a good nights sleep!
64. Brush your teeth!
65. Stay fit!
66. Save money!
67. Get good insurance.
68. Be organized
69. Take a great vacation.
70. Learn about other cultures!
71. Take a class on etiquette.
72. Get a good pair of FUZZY socks!
73. Own a full length mirror (but don't look in it while wearing your fuzzy socks!)
74. Take mini classes
75. Take a breathe of fresh air
76. Know your homeopathic remedies.
77. Never grow up!
78. Have a good set of power tools!
79. Have family pictures regularly.
80. Keep and make traditions!!
81. Be honest
82. Be humble
83. Be a good cook!
84. Be romantic!
85. Have strong morals!
86. Eat your fruits and veggies.
87. Walk on the beach....Barefooted!
88. Keep an open mind!
89. Hold tightly!
90. Listen to Christmas music...all year!
91. Learn a unique trade!
92. Talk well, listen better!
93. If you need something....ASK
94. Attitude is everything
95. Keep a journal.
96. Turn Fear into Faith!
97. Look for the good in everything.
98. Forget the bad.
99. Dance by the light of the moon!
100. AND....If all else fails.....Use coconut oil!
That was fun. So fun, that I think I am going to make this into a TAG. But you don't have to do 100. Here it is: Think of 10 different "Words to live by" and post them! I tag, Amy, Michelle, Ragan, Julie, Jana, Jen Rook, Rebekah, Cindy, Darsha and anyone else who is reading, but link us back to you! Maybe I'll add to my list once I see yours!!

Halloween

Well I don't have any pictures for Halloween yet! I had to use my mom's camera so I am waiting for them to email them to me and then I will post!

Will things ever get better?

O.k..... so everyday I wake up thinking....."This is the day.....that something is going to turn....and things are going to get better, it's bound to happen right?" I have a good attitude everyday, well almost!! I keep thinking, o.k this week one of my houses will sell, I'll be able to be more financially secure, we'll have money to finish the home we're in, I finally got stuff for countertops (after 9 months without them, if I can get it done this weekend it will only be 9 months) so what happens???
A little over 2 weeks ago, I had to go into our pantry closet, which houses along with the food....our hot water heater! I noticed there was a little water on the floor and I thought "Oh, the kids probably spilled something here" so I cleaned it up, and went about my business. So a couple days later I went back and I grabbed a box of food storage off the floor and the bottom of it was pretty wet, so then I thought, "o.k. that is odd, that my kids would spill something in this tiny closet...TWICE. Yes, low and behold, my hot water heater had been leaking, for how long do you ask? Well when we pulled it out to see, the whole bottom of the hot water heater just broke off. I guess after 28 years they begin to rust.....REALLY BAD!!! So we had to go get a new hot water heater....plus new subfloor....plus new flooring, plus.....new plumbing parts because.....you guessed it, when we went to turn the water off with the valves on the wall next to the hot water heater, they broke!!! Luckily it didn't squirt everywhere just started leaking badly, so Dave ran to the pump house to turn off the water to the whole house (which can be bad, when people have to poop and you can't flush it for who knows how many hours the project will last.) So things went well considering, it only took us into the night on friday night and all day saturday and we had hot water by 11:30 at night (Which made it so I had no children ready for church the next day....so I didn't go) Project complete.
Since I had gotten some marble tile for my countertops before this whole incident I was anxious to start laying it, but didn't have the right materials to be able to do it, so the other day we got the stuff we needed to be able to start and finish this project, and it was going well... until last night, when Shally came in and told me..."Mom....you know the bathroom dad takes a shower in?" Of course I know.... "Well, when I just went in to go to the bathroom, there was a towel on the floor with a couple clothes and they are soaking wet....So I looked around and saw that behind the toilet was really wet, and I saw water coming out of the toilet." "Oh, and mom......the floor where the toilet is.....is really high now!"
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! Yep, my toilet has been leaking and the floor in that bathroom is now ruined and has to be replaced.....I went in that bathroom on Monday to clean it, and the clothes and towels on the floor were pretty wet, which in a home with no children.....may seem out of the ordinary, but it's normal here, Kids play in water and get things really wet all the time....right? Well, I thought I was right.... I cleaned it up, swept the floor, cleaned the bathroom and left, and no I hadn't been back in that bathroom (it's not used as much as the others)until last night when I got the bad news. So it has been leaking badly for atleast 4 days, and I'm sure a small leak has been going on for quite some time (judging by the looks of the subfloor, popping up). Atleast we can just get a new part for the toilet for now and put the flooring project on a back burner until my countertops are done.
But this is my question......WILL IT EVER GET BETTER???? Or am I doomed to a life of torment and leaky plumbing???? (That sounded funny didn't it...not my plumbing, my houses plumbing)
Anyway, I guess I feel like you guys can feel sorry for me today. In a little while I won't want you to, but for the moment that you are reading this, you can think,
"oh poor Jaime, she definately needs help (in more ways then one)" and "if I had a million dollars, I'd just buy both of her houses for her, so she can build one again like she wants to!" Really you guys would? So which one is the millionaire???? You can come to my house today at three, I'll be waiting for the check!!!!

Oh, and I would have posted pictures with my camera, but....I'll let you guess......WOW, You're good....how did you know it was BROKEN!!!!!

Family pictures!

So, since I have a best friend that lives here now, she gets to do my family pictures. I haven't set it up with her yet, but I did mention it to her! Anyway, I really want a fall background, trees, leaves, etc. So it has to be soon! This is what I need from you guys, there are pictures of all members of my family on my blog, after really looking and careful deliberation......I need you to tell me what colors our family should wear for pictures. I like to color coordinate... Leave me a comment!!!!!!

I got tagged so here is how this works. Post the 4th Pic from the 4th folder in your "My Pictures" folder.
And I tag....Ragan, Julie, Amy (if she's not too bloated!!! Sorry, Amy... I hope the fluid goes down!) Michelle, Jana, everyone on my list go ahead and do this!!!
Here it is.....ADORABLE!!!!

Who are you???

I found this on Doni's site. I wanted to try it and thought that you fans out there might want to also. Did anyone read this series? and what did you think?
I'm not sure if the description describes me or not. But I think it does a little!


Take the Quiz and Share Your Results!
You are observant, diplomatic and often aim to please. You are unaware of your attractiveness and despite being uncomfortable with any form of attention, people enjoy your company. You can be impatient, stubborn and headstrong, but you are true to your word and mature for your age, often taking care of your family and enjoying a good book over chatting with girlfriends on the phone.

Fun Ideas?

In case you are wondering....I do feel a little better today. Still yucky..but better.
Anyway, I was just wanting some fun ideas to do for Halloween or fall? Do you have any? Some activities to do with kids or somewhere to go you think might be fun!
Let me know!

UUUGGGGHHHHH!!!

My tummy hurts!!! I have the flu, I think. blahhhh, no fun. I lost 4 pounds just from yesterday morning, I'm sure I'll gain it back as soon as I start drinking more, but I never knew someone could have so much in them. I'm not talking about vomit either....you guessed it, the big D word. I feel like my rearend was permanently fused to the toilet all through the night. Not that you needed to know, but I wanted to tell!!!! Anyway, I'm feeling a little better, but found out someone wants to come see our house on Saturday.... yikes..How am I ever going to get it clean and looking decent, hopefully I'll be toilet free by tonight!

Tagged: Seven Things You Don't Need To Know About Me (But I'm Sharing Anyway!)

My friend Julie tagged me... and actually I love being tagged! Sometimes though I let you know little a too much about me! You guys will really end up thinking I am a nut case after reading my blog for so long! But who cares....I have no secrets!!

1. When I drive in the middle of winter, in the middle of the night, and have the heat up soooo high that it is really hot in the car I absolutely love pressing my face against the very cold window, I still stay warm...but still have that refreshing aspect to the moment also. mmmmm mmmm mmmmmm
2. I love to lay flat on my back on the floor, and lift my feet up in the air and have Dave grab them and hold them up. I'll post a picture of this sometime. I feel so great in this position!
3. I love to crunch Ice...(which Dave hates to listen to)
4. I love to sing and write songs and poetry(some of you may already know this, but I'm betting not all of you did)
5. I want to have triplets!!! (yes, I know you all think I'm crazy and think I have enough, but I really want triplets....2 boys and a girl)
6. I am a coconut addict. I absolutely love coconut......I am going to start a "coconut lovers of America foundation" (not exactly sure of the purpose......)
7. I would love to be a detective. I think I have always been good at putting 2 and 2 together, I love it, I love mystery, and I'd love to solve them!!!! Nancy Drew here I come baby!!!
And one more for kicks!!
8. I think I saw Ted Bundy once!!! Maybe I'll share the experience in a different post!
Oh, and I tag....Amy, Michelle, Cindy, Darsha(who I am so excited we found eachother), Jana, Monaca, Jen Rook.... and whoever else wants to.... I would Say Doni, but I'm not even sure if she reads my blog! So tell us some things we don't know about you...unusual or not!

ARRRGGGGGHHHHH!!!

Can I just tell you that some days are definately better than others. So my kids have to walk to a corner by our house to get on the bus, because the bus doesn't turn in the direction of our house it goes the other way. It is a fairly busy corner in the mornings, cars, truck, cement truck, semi's, you name it, and they all don't pay attention to well. So for the safety of my children I take them to the corner. So this morning my husband called me (usually its me calling him to find out) and told me that he left my car keys on the dresser by the t.v......NOPE no keys, so I said are you sure you took them out of your pocket...Of course he did, so I said "you have 5 minutes to think about where you put them and then call me back when you remember." So he calls back, "did you look on the other side of the t.v?" ...."YES they are not there either" I said.... he asks "what about the fireplace", "not there either Dave..." I am getting more frustrated by the minute. "What about in the family room by the other t.v.?" he's hoping....."nope, checked there too, Dave." I said trying to be nice but wanting to ring his neck!
"Oh crap, you're going to be really mad," he says hesistantly. "What.....they're in your pocket aren't they?" ...... "Yep" ...... ARGGGGGHHHHHH....... I said MADLY "this will not work for me, you have to bring them back"..... "I'm almost in Vernal" He says....innocently "Well then you turn around, bring me my keys and you can be late for your stupid meeting." I said! OF course he can't so I'm stuck at home and I really wanted to go to the store to buy some Glade, fabric and air spray! Dang it!
So I am mad at him and he better have a surprise for me when he gets home. You may think I am hard on him, but this happens more often then it should! With anything, MY keys, MY debit card, MY purse (the last one is because I happen to leave it in his truck...but still).
And to add to all the stress, I had to evict the people in my house last night. The lady was not happy, but I don't care. They smoke, they have animals....blaaaahhh in my house, I have told a number of times to get them out. Get this, 2 dogs and a rooster. YES...I SAID ROOSTER!! In my house!!!! And they haven't paid rent. So they have to be out in 3 days and then I'm left with 2 mortgages again!!! I'll figure it out sooner or later I'm sure!
My mom went to the doctor last night and they found some things wrong with her, my grandpa went in for a procedure this morning on his heart and at 84 years old, it is risky, my best friend moved back home and doesn't like it!!! And there is really nothing I can do about anything!!!!!AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHhh someone please help.
So I'm not going to let this post be a negative one! I still love life, there are only...5 areas out of 11 in my house that are not clean right now (unfortunately it's the main part of the house that is still messy) It might still be a somewhat warm day today.... I ate my homemade granola for breakfast which makes me happy.... My kids rooms smell awesome because I found some apple cinnamon spray (I love that smell, especially this time of the year)... The holidays are coming... I get a paycheck this week from a loan I closed... the leaves are changing colors and are beautiful.... I still have a little gas left in my car....There is meat in my freezer (thanks to my wonderful in-laws)... I still have food in the cupboards....My best friend did move back, and is staying, I hope....I get my mail early in the mornings (and I love that) I am not wearing a bra(and I love that too)..... And I'm convinced that my husband is going to bring me flowers today to make up for his absentmindedness (is that a word) and I think he'll love that I'm not wearing a bra too!!!!
Life really couldn't get much better than this. I know the Lord has things in store for us, and everything will be fine, we just have to leave no room for fear and fill all the space with FAITH!!!!!

AHHHHHH!! Photo TAG!

Alright, I have seen this a few times on some blogs but have never wanted to do it, for fear that I would be really embarrassed. But to be quite honest, any one who knows me, knows that I have a lot to work on, and cleanliness and organization is definately at the top of the list. I decided that I'm not going to care anymore, there is no point in making people think that my house is perfect when at any given time they could show up at my home and see it the way that it is..... so here it goes I'm finally going to do it, and I am NOT going to apologize for what you are about to see.
1. kids (They are not home so I had to find a picture I already had)

2.My closet and laundry room are best friends right now (until our remodeling is finished) and since I'm sure that you are wondering, I'll add a picture from a different angle so you can see how horrible I am at doing laundry!


3.Bathroom, this one is our masterbath for the moment, in the remodel.. excitingly we have added plans for a bathtub and shower!

4.Kitchen sink, I have already done dishes this morning, but I didn't do any yesterday that's why my sink isn't empty!

5. Fridge (yes, my husband thrives on Chocolate milk or should I say survives???)And yes... those are electrical wires hanging down from the ceiling!

6. Favorite shoes. These aren't particularly my favorite, but this is my favorite style of shoes....Of course....what else is there?

7. Favorite room in the house????? I definately do not have one!! Sad huh.. So here is a picture of our future laundry room, it's dark and you can't see around the little corner.

8. Dream Vacation! I have always and will forever love this place! I Really want to go here some day!

9. Hobbies... I love crocheting right now. This is a hat that I crocheted and... no addi was not happy to help me out with taking the picture!

10. No one needs to see a self portrait right now. Just use your imagination!
I think that is about it! So if there is anyone who hasn't done this and reads my blog than do it! SHOW ME YOUR MESSES! Because I'm not the only one right?

Change and Change

O.k. so that is crazy, guess what was my favorite talk of general conference? If any of you have read my last post you would know (if you listened to conference) Last talk of the first Session on Sunday......Did you hear President Monsen's talk about change?????? Like my sister-in-law said we must have been on the same wavelength, that's amazing. Actually me and the prophet go way back, we were hanging out the other day and the subject of change came up!!! NOT! (do people use that word anymore....NOT?????) Anyway I actually got emotional during the first part of his talk because it has been on my mind and it's not any easy thing sometimes. Anyway I thought it was pretty cool! If you didn't listen to it you need to, or read it! It was good!

Change

So I have been thinking..... it has been slightly over a year since my parents decided to GO work on their new home (an hour away from me) one weekend, and never came back! Although they have a new beautiful home on the river I have truly missed them. These are the things I have missed!

1. My kids waking up and being able to walk out our front door and go right to grandma and grandpas (indecently exposed....or not)
2. Jumping in the car with my mom to run to town.
3. Jumping in the car with my dad to go take pictures or do an appraisal
4. When my mom and dad need to go somewhere... being able to have my sisters stay with me!
5. When Dave is at work and I'm bored and just need someone to talk to, being able to be on my mom and dad's bed within 60 seconds! I miss laying on their bed with them and watching t.v. or just talking (this was a nightly ritual for me in highschool)
6. Losing my children and not worrying because I know they are safe... at my parents house
7. Being able to leave my kids home or let some of them still sleep if the others have missed the bus or I need to run to town, because mom and dad were next door and one or the other would always come check on them!
8. Waking up and being able to look out my window and see if my parents are home or at any time of the day for that matter!
9. My dad calling me....everytime...he had to stop at the grocery store to see if I need milk or not?
10. The home I grew up in!
11.Watching my dad on sunday afternoons or each night ride on his four wheeler to check HIS trees and having my kids run out the door to jump on... with him!
12.When Dave is gone (out of town or working late) knowing that I'm still o.k. because my dad is right by me. (I feel safer having a man around)
13. Hearing a sound outside and going out to see that my dad decided to bring his backhoe over and "do something" in my yard.
14. Riding 4-wheelers anytime I want on my parents 40+ acres!
15. Watching the sunsets with my husband and my mom and dad sitting on our porch or vice versa.
16. Waking up Christmas morning to my parents and the twins and grandma H. waiting for us in our family room to be able to watch my kids open their presents and then walking over to their house to do the same!
17. Going to mom's for dinner when I don't want to cook! (and if I was out of an ingredient or didn't have the right cooking utensil, guess who had it...my mom!)
18. Spur of the moment shopping trips to Salt Lake with my mom, and we could do that because dad was always there to watch my kids or get the other kids off the bus!
19. Having my sisters come over anytime to help me...babysit, clean or just hang out!
20. Being able to do my sisters hair anytime they had a special occasion, (my mom can cut hair... but let's face it... she just isn't as good as me at styling!!!)
21. Watching my kids run down the drive way because grandma or grandpa just got home! (they do this with me and dave too, it makes being a parent fun!)

22. And last....Just having them there....so close....

Even though, they are soooooo happy and absolutely love their new little town....and it's been a good year, It's also been very hard. I have really missed having them so close. But I have realized that change comes....on any given day, whether it is easy or hard, it is always change, and even though we may not always want it, I have to give it credit.... we become stronger for it (most the time) and almost always learn from it, and once things have changed.... they most likely are never the same, but we move on and continue right? Because what else can we do, but accept that life is a never-ending journey and around each bend is guess who??? CHANGE....just waiting for us!!! So we may as well not run from it, but embrace it and hope that we will be able to SEE what the Lord sees, and KNOW that everything is going to be o.k. BECAUSE IT IS!!!!!

Another one!

Thanks to my sister-in-law Michelle I have these fun things to add to my blog. Although this one hit right on the year that I was born, I'm not sure if it fits me...What do you think?

You Belong in 1978

Bold and brash, you take life by the horns. Whether you're partying or protesting, you give it your all!

What Year Do You Belong In?

This is completely true!!!

Especially the pat about me being chaotic. Anyone who has been to my house recently would probably not even laugh at that statement, they're probably thinking... how sad...that is completely true about her!!!

What Your Bed Says About You

Outward appearances are a concern of yours, but not your primary concern. You try to take care of yourself and your home, but it's not an obsession. Your life tends to be completely chaotic. You aren't a very organized person, and you tend to be slow in cleaning up messes. You are not very high maintenance in general, but you are high maintenance about a few things. In relationships, you tend to kick back and let the other person be in charge. You tend to be a dreamy, head in the clouds type of person. You think in terms of possibilities. You are a bit of a homebody, but you can also make yourself at home anywhere.

What Does Your Bed Say About You?

Diaper Cake and best friends!!!

I made a diaper cake, which Briella's response when I told her was "EWWWW"
I love making these! They are so fun and I have a sense of satisfaction when I'm done, because they turn out so cute!!! My sister in law is on her 4th boy, due in November. So since her youngest is almost 6 they decided to give her a baby shower. Which I was happy for, because I only do the diaper cakes for CLOSE friends and family because they are just expensive! Anyway everyone loved it and they used it as the center piece at her baby shower. Did I mention I love making these?? LOVE IT!!!
OH, and I don't think I have mentioned that my best friend moved back home!! If anyway looks at my blogger buddies you might already know, but if not then I'm telling you. I am really excited to have her home, even though she isn't quite sure she is happy to be here. I can't say I blame her!! I've been ready for a change for quite some time, it's just not meant to be right now, and I have to admit having her back may make it a lot more bearable!! Her husband is liking his job so far, atleast that's what my husband thinks..... hopefully he will love it so they will stay here indefinately! Even if you're not that excited to be here....
WELCOME HOME RAGAN!!!!!!

FOREVER STRONG

This was on my cousin's blog..so without her permission I copied it to put on my blog to pass it on. This movie looks awesome you have to watch the trailer!


Rugby Movie "Forever Strong"

I just recieved this email from Desert Book, and I thought I'd post it on here since I'd not heard about the movie as of yet. It must be pretty important if Deseret book is sending letters like this one. I would love to see better movies in the theaters, the ones that you can take your family to and not cringe at words that were said, or a scene that you hoped was not in this film. So here's the letter if you're interested:
-----------------------------------

Dear Deseret Book Customer,

Two weeks ago we made you aware of the upcoming film "Forever Strong," about a former LDS seminary teacher turned sports coach who has helped shape the lives of hundreds of young men. If you missed the email please click on this link to read it.

There was an overwhelming response from our customers regarding this film and we thought you would want an update on the film's progress. The national press is rallying around this inspiring movie with possible interviews Wednesday or Thursday morning on "Fox and Friends", Thursday on CNN's "The Glenn Beck Show" and possibly Fox New's "Hannity and Colmes" Friday night.

The film opens nationwide in select theaters this Friday! If inspiring movies matter to you, help send a message to Hollywood that you want to see more of them by taking your friends and family to the theater on opening weekend. If the movie doesn't do well on opening weekend the theater will drop it and you may miss your chance! Also, help spread the word by forwarding this email to your friends and associates.

To get tickets online, visit:fandango.commovietickets.commoviefone.com

If tickets online are not available yet, please check back during the week as some online ticket companies (listed above) are still adding "Forever Strong" to their line-up, Please see the following list below to find a theater near your ward. Visit RugbyMovie.com to watch the trailer.

HOLY...........GAS

I just got done filling up my gas tank on my more modern bus!!! If I were a swearing woman.......... Oh my goodness... Usually when you go to a gas pump and use your debit card it automatically stops at $50 and you have to do it again, I thought I'd go in and get addi a treat while it was filling up, when I got back out to the car it was still filling up so I buckled her in thinking it must just be pumping slowly today. YIKES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
$125.00 oops. luckily Dave got payed yesterday. So I get in thinking it obviously topped it off right???? nope it was still just under the F. So now I got thinking o.k. if I have 470 miles to empty and I need my gas to last me for 30 days that means I can only drive about 16 miles a day, which is very doable when most days I don't even go anywhere, but I was headed up to Tabby, that's why I filled it up. So that means I can't go anywhere for approximately 6.875 days. So someone may need to come and pick me up!!!
p>

I BOUGHT A BUS!!!!

We finally broke down and bought a new car. I have always said I would never own an economy van,but I knew that I needed something a little bigger, because we are (hopefully) not done having children plus I like to be able to take my little sisters with me wherever we go if I can. (it's harder since they live an hour away now) So after my van started falling apart, literally, Dave and I decided that it was time. I hated the idea of a monthly payment. My van has 150,000 miles on it, and I was really going to try to get it to 200,000 first, but everything was breaking on it and it was just a big pile of poop!!!
So we did it, and guess what? It seats 12, that's what sold me on it, it has a bench seat in the front and 3 following that one, all leather interior (which is a must with children, atleast mine) a DVD player, and the seats are soooooooo comfortable. I'm so excited about it.
I'm going to find as many friends as I can to go with me to the General Relief Society meeting next weekend,and we're all going to ride in MY BUS!!! YEAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

ADORABLE

Can I just say my baby is adorable!!! Shally is in 3rd grade,Geege is in 2nd, and Dawson is in 1st and Briella goes to headstart monday through thursday. So this is who I get to spend my days with. It is so fun and quiet. Addi plays so well by herself, but a million times through out the day will come to me and kiss me, wherever she can reach, my hand, my arm, my thigh, my forehead, my cheek, my eye, she loves to give me kisses and tell me how much she loves me. I have thoroughly enjoyed being with her. I wish I had time with each of my kids like this! I am going to make more of an effort to have one on one time with my children, even if they don't like their mom anymore! I do love being a mother!!!!!!

List of 7's!

I have a new blogging buddy Rebeckah, She tagged me and wanted me to do these lists!
Sorry it took me so long!!!

7 THINGS I PLAN TO DO BEFORE I DIE

1. Become a millionaire

2. fly to a different country with my children

3. Help as many people as I can in ways someone else might not be able to.

4. Kiss my husband by candle light at a restraunt in Rome!

5. Swim with a dolphin

6. Start my own business

7. Oh, and last but not least.... Learn to bail hay!

7 THINGS I CAN DO

1. Laugh

2. crochet

3. A back flip, yes I can still do this, but unfortunately I don't always land on my feet.
4. Talk for hours

5. tickle my kids

6. Buy things online.... I know how to do this too well.

7. Make a mean coconut cream pie, hmmm hmm hmmmmmmmmmmmm

7 THINGS I CANNOT DO.

1. keep my house clean

2. Eat beets.

3. Chemistry (although I've never tried)

4. twist my leg up and behind my head

5. fly

6. hate

7. the splits

7 THINGS THAT ATTRACT ME TO THE OPPOSITE SEX

1. Smile

2. Skin color

3. Humurous

4. Hard working

5. Determined

6. Being grateful

7. Eyes that twinkle, I like that one Rebeckah

7 THINGS I SAY MOST OFTEN

1. Dont give me that crap (yes, I say it all the time to my kids, and yes, they have picked up on it too, what kind of a mother am I?)
2.Thank you.

3. I love you

4. You're funny

5. I was thinking today would work (mostly I say this to my husband when he doesn't do something I ask him in the time frame I was thinking. We instantly start laughing)
6. Don't bite!

7. Explain to me how whining is going to make dinner magically appear!!!

7 CELEBRITY ADMIRATIONS

1.Jeniffer Aniston, because I read an article one time, talking about pre-nups and she said, "Why would I want to get married and plan to get divorced!"
2. Julianne Hough, She's a great dancer, and has good morals!

3. Keifer Sutherland, I'm totally in love with him after watching all the seasons of 24, and we share the same day of birth!

4. Vincent Dinoffrio, he's great, funny, a good actor, LOVE HIM!!

5. Tom and Katie Cruise, I know, it seems like most people don't agree these, days but I think they are genuinely nice good people!
6. Maksim Chmerkovskiy (he's a celebrity to me) He's hot and sexy!!! Don't tell my husband though, or he won't let me watch dancing with the stars again!
7. Any of the celebrity women who don't believe in posing for playboy!

7 FAVORITE FOODS

How do you choose just seven...

1.Coconut

2. My homemade blueberry granola

3. Chicken Alfredo, Made by my mother

4. ohh, ohh, How could I forget, mmmmmmm the jalapeno cheddar melt at wendy's mmmmmm, it's to die for!!!! It is hot and steamy yum yum yum!
5. Hot fudge Sunday

6. Chicken Quesadilla's (From Stockman's) a local restraunt!

7. MMMMMMMMM, my favorite, Peanut butter fingers!!!

7 PEOPLE WHO NEED TO DO THIS

1. Ragan.

2. Amy.

3. Michelle

4. Jen Rook

5. Julie

6. Jana Monsen

7. Any one else who is reading my blog, but link us back to you!!!

Last Summer Vacation....or First

Well, we went on our last vacation of the summer, and I say last because it is the last one we will have this summer, but also the first one we have had, sad huh. We did go to our family reunion, which counts, but this one was just our little family. Dave and me and the 5 kids. It was a lot of fun. We just got a hotel for 2 days and let the kids swim ALOT, and we went to the zoo and to alot of restraunts. I was going to call my brothers to see if they could go with me, but if you can understand what it takes to do 4 girls hair and get them ready, I didn't dare call and say we're going to go to the zoo at 10:30 and then not end up going until noon, which is exactly what happened. Maybe next year I can have them go with us.
All in all I have to say that my kids did fairly well, well to me, may be chaos to someone else, but it went o.k. One lady went to the same place as us to eat, and then we ended up seeing her at target a little bit after we ate, and she just had to ask how old our kids were and if they were all ours, she said they were very well behaved (yes, my mouth dropped) and I said they have their moments! She said so do her kids but we have to remember that they are in training. And that is sooooooooooo true, but I'm not thoroughly convinced that I am a good trainer. I need a little work.
Anyway it was fun and good for our family to spend "Fun" time together, but I do have to say, Dave and I are ready for a vacation after our vacation! If that makes sense!
Nothing is better than family! So all of my family out there, I want you to know how much I love you all and how fun it is for me to be around you!!!
Oh, and check out, our getto hotel room. The ceiling was going to fall in on us. It was cheap, isn't it great! Oh, and if you are wondering why my sons face is sooo swollen on the right side. It's a bee sting. He's allergic, so much so ,that this is two days after the fact!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Thoughts

It seems like time flies so quickly, I can't believe school is going to start in less than 6 days. Crazy. I have enjoyed having my children home for the summer, but I am also looking forward to being able to clean and keep it that way until 3:30 every day.
So I was thinking about a few things the other day. I wanted to know some other peoples thoughts on the subject. If you think you are going through a trial and it has been going on far too long, what is the purpose? I know people go through trials but sometimes I'm not sure the purpose of them and why they last so long? Any ideas on that would be good.
The other thoughts were, if I can explain in a way to understand, what is the purpose of some of the people that come and go in your lives. Friends, that aren't friends anymore, people that you have a connection with but don't know why, and why sometimes out of the middle of nowhere do you suddenly have a dream about someone you haven't thought of for a while or seen for ever. (I haven't had any of these recently, but was just thinking) If this makes sense and you have any ideas share with me.
Oh and the next thing, Zion... where is it? Is it a certain place or can it be in your home or can it be an attitude so that wherever you go, you can take it with you??? I know that your comments might be long on these questions, but that's o.k. I just want to know what you guys think.

Oh, and this picture is of a house that I love, I saw it while in the city and thought I would share it,I have always wanted to live in a castle, and figured this is one way I could do it!!

BLOG...BLOG....BLOG.....

Doesn't that sound alot like blah blah blah. Sorry if any of you feel like that's all I say, it may not be too interesting for you, but I LOVE TO BLOG..... most the time anyway, but I have been really busy lately. So I actually don't have anything to blog about today except that, if you are going to take a picture of yourself on someone else's camera, make sure you always brush your teeth first!! I love you UNCLE RAYMOND!!!!

Happy All the time!!!

Thanks everyone for all of your comments! Atleast now I know, even if I don't get comments that someone is reading it. I was gone all week last week to a family reunion. The crazy part of the family (my side). It was soooooo great. I am such a people person and love being around everyone and visiting. There aren't many families that still have an extended famiy reunion like this one. We have any where for 100 to 160 people come at any given time. It is a blast and so much fun. I'll post pictures later, of course my camera ran out of batteries and I had to use my moms, now I have to wait for her to get them too me....mmmm maybe in about 6 months!
Anyway, I have made a personal decision to be Happy all the time!! So if any of my posts are negative from here on out, just reprimand me and keep me in line.
Life is good, kids are great, summer is almost over, I haven't sold any of my houses, but I have one on ebay, and I already have quite a few bids and a lot of people watching it, I have 7 days left on the auction. It's definately not up high enough but will get there in the next week!!!!
Thanks to all my friends who support me and read my, sometimes boring, blog!

comments

HOW COME NOT VERY MANY PEOPLE COMMENT ON MY BLOG???? I WANT MORE COMMENTS, SO FROM NOW ON YOU CAN'T READ MY BLOG UNLESS YOU MAKE A COMMENT!!! OH, AND AMY, YOU HAVE BEEN 33 AND LOVING IT FOR WAY TO LONG NOW!

Responsibility

I have come to the conclusion that I am bad at managing time, unorganized, and in a complete disaster. I don't know how to get out of it, and I have no idea where to even start. When I think about it I get sick! I know living in a house while remodeling can take a toll on someone and it can make it hard to keep the house up, but this is getting really old. Does anyone want to buy one of my houses, then the problem would be solved. I could be in a home that is finished or have the money to finish the one I'm in. I don't care anymore. Is that a bad sign? A sign of not much motivation, or depression. I don't want to do it anymore! I quit! My kids keep telling me I can't quit being a mother and a wife, but right now a lack of responsiblity sounds really appealing.
I just want to curl up in a nice relaxing, clean area with a calm breeze blowing a hint of lavender through the room, while I am indulging in a great book listening to yanni and eating cheddar jack cheez-its all night long in my underwear with a sheet around my bottom (i feel more secure with something wrapped around my bum if I'm in my underwear, not that you needed to know, but I feel better having explained myself???)
Hey, look at that, just the thought of it cheered me up! Maybe since I'm happier I better go organize............OR NOT!!!!

Going home!

We had a good friend pass away 2 weeks ago. With having an autopsy done and a memorial in New Jersey, it took a while for them to get his body here. The funeral was today. I haven't had many people close to me die, this was probably the worst I have ever cried at a funeral!! He was such a great friend. When I found out he died I wrote a poem and shared it with the family. I went to the funeral today with every intention of being TOUGH, as I was in the line for the viewing my dad picked up the program, scanned through it and handed it over to me. I looked at the front and turned to the back and was completely caught off guard, on the back of the program was the poem I had written. I had NO IDEA they were even going to use it (good thing I had already gotten a copyright)! My dad hadn't seen it so when I started bawling he looked at me and I handed him the program back, then he started crying and passed it to my mom and yep, you guessed it, she started crying too. It was a very humbling experience for me, and everyone of the family members thanked me and said I was an answer to many prayers and that it fit perfectly for Teryn. I couldn't get my composure back the whole time! But they say a good cry is great for the spirit. I feel emotionally spent tonight, but feel great that I didn't let fear get in the way of sharing my talent! It was a hard day, but also a good day. I loved Teryn and feel like my poem being put on the back of the program was his way of saying "Thank you" for writing this for me(if that makes sense) I can't say that I felt him there with me when I wrote it, but I was definately inspired and maybe he was there, I was just to tired to notice (I wrote it at 1:00 in the morning).
I will definately miss him, it will sure be fun to see him again!
Here is the program. You have to click on it to get a bigger picture!!!

I've had so many things going on that I forgot to post our 4th of July holiday!! We went up to mom and dad's and had sooooooooo much fun. We had a lot of family that was able to come. All-together we had total of 26 people there, and most of us slept in the house!!! Crazy. We had 14 children total. WOW. It was soooo crazy and noisy and just plain fun. I had so much fun visiting with all of the family and the kids played in the canal, they would have slept there if we had let them, they hardly got out of the water. Which made for a lot of wetness!!! I did however miss my brothers! None of them were able to come. I do like to see them, but it doesn't happen as often as I'd like!
Anyway HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!!! I'm very greatful for our FREEDOM!!!
Here's a slideshow of the weekend. And look at my 4th of July breakfast, yummy gingerbread waffles with strawberries,blueberries and whipping cream.

Free MySpace slideshows, photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Happy Birthday AMY!!!

I have never been very good at sending things in the mail. Today is my sister-in-laws birthday and since I didn't send her anything, what better way to say Happy Birthday then on my blog, which is read by millions!!! :)
Anyway Happy Birthday Amy, hope it is a good one! Sorry I don't have an updated picture!

Broken Again.....With Dr.'s Supervision

Briella had to go back to the hospital first thing this morning and get her nose rebroken (closed nasal reduction in medical terms).
It was about a five minute procedure that took 2.5 hours. With anesthesia, procedure, recovery, and waiting for her to wake up. The Dr. said he hasn't seen a break like this in a child this small. It was the right side of her nose that was crooked and that is because the bone was broken into 3 pieces. He said this is an injury he would expect to see from a major car accident. I told everyone it would have been a home run, looks like I was right. I guess we know where Jennasea's career should take her!!!
Anyway, she's good, a little sore, but has a great attitude!

Getting her oxygen checked before putting her out!


Coloring!! They hand out a cute coloring book that tells kids about the surgery!

Ready to go!!!! Surgery, here she comes. She left and the lady across from us (who's boy was having the same thing done) said "Wow, she's not scared a bit!!!" She was right, She is definately a tough little girl!

Back, rebroken, and on the road to healing....barring any punches or kicks from siblings!!

Her little cast that has to stay on for a week. We'll see how that works out!


Ready to go home!!! What a trooper! Sometimes I think it's harder on the mother then the child. I hate to see my children hurting! Good job Baby, you were so TOUGH!!!!

Make-over

My blog just got a make-over. I wish I could get as nice of a make-over as my blog did, for as much money as I paid (the owner of the blogger design business is my best friend) so if she were a cosmotologist I would have just gotten a make-over for less than I have ever gotten one before, oh wait, I've never gotten one!!!

So I totally and absolutely love the new design!! I liked the last one, but I LOVE this one!!!

Two thumbs up for change!!!

Day # 3

Day #2

This kind of puts a damper on the family picture idea this week! Maybe we can still do it!

Warmth, Fun, and Broken Noses!

It seems like summer time brings the warmth of the sun and tons' of fun, but along with the fun there always seems to be some sort of craziness.
We were gone and had some babysitters over, all the kids were playing baseball, and YEP, you guessed it, Jennasea went to hit the ball and Briella was standing too close, and instead of the ball, Jennasea hit smack dab in the middle of Briella's face! The good thing is.. is that it would have been a home run, the bad thing is.. is that Briella's head isn't a ball.
The nasal bones are definately broken, but it is too swollen for them to see if they are too far out of alignment or not. We have to wait a week for the swelling to go down and take her into the plastic surgeon and make sure cosmetically that everything will be o.k.
Bruises always get worse as time goes by, so I'll try to post updates of Briella's unwanted make-over.

I'm a princess

So, I saw this on my sister-in-laws blog and loved it. What do you think? Does this sound like me at all? What about you guys, who are you??



You Are Pocahantas!

Free-spirited and wise. You have a strong passionate spirit that touches and changes all who know you. The wisdom and common sense that you have is really what guides you through life. Even so, you also have a very playful side that loves adventure and excitement.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

More remodeling

Dave loves to come home to me and see all of the new things I have started! I will have to send a picture of my mess! For some reason I really like tearing things apart! It's the putting back together that I'm not a big fan of. So that's why Dave and I make such a great couple. I tear apart, while he fixes it back up!!! What a great husband, and he does it most of the time with out a complaint (or atleast a lot of complaining!) I'll try to post some pictures tomorrow!

This blog is for you!

Ragan, this blog is for you. I am ready for a new blog design! I think I go to yours so often and see all the changes and have decided it is time for a change on mine. So are you up for it. I may have some different pictures too. Let me know if you are wanting to work, I don't know since you are so into your digital scrapbooking!

Summer--Time

Just to let you know...... It's summertime and I have lost all interest in blogging at this point. I have 5 kids I have to keep up with and entertain, so time isn't quite as free! I love having my kids home though, (most days). And I will still keep in touch, it might just be really sparse!!
LATER PEOPLE!!!

???????????

I'm sorry it has been so long since I have blogged. Or at least it seems like it to me. I guess it must be getting close to the end of the school year, things are just crazy. I spent labor day weekend at my mom and dad's sewing!!! YES, I said sewing. I made a dress for each one of my girls! Much more then I bargained for, but I got them done and now just need to put the buttons on. I am making them all some summer dresses and skirts and shorts, I know.........insane, but I already have all the material so it is cheap, just time consuming!
Nothing else is happening around here! Kids are being kids and ready to be out of school, I'm looking forward to the chaos soon to enter our home in 4 days, 5 kids, no school, ALL SUMMER! Dave's job is great, and I am....................NOT pregnant!!!!! Yet.....

WFTW.........

Expect the Unexpected!!!!

No DOG......Yet!

O.k. , so I am not the kind of mom that makes my kids go to pet day at school without a pet! So guess what? I got them a pet (Shal and Geeg!) They had pet day together so I had to get them a pet right???

When I brought it home, they were so excited and said "Mom deserves a hug and a kiss!" So they both gave me one, Next to me was Dave that said "She doesn't deserve one from me!" (I'll have you know he does still love me!

Yep, Parakeets. They are surprisingly very easy to take care of.....so far (we've only had them for 3 days) but you can leave them in their cage their food and water last a while and they are surprisingly not that noisy! I hardly know they are there, besides the occasional chirp. They loved it when I vaccuumed today and chirped while I was doing that, but they are very easy! I am not regretting it yet!

Crazy! But the kids love them! And they are cheap to take care of!

To DOG or Not to DOG!!!

My daughter really wants a dog. She has saved her money for the last few months! She has about $80 dollars. I don't want a Mutt, and I'm not sure I want an inside dog, enough occupants already, but I'm not sure I want an outside dog because they are bigger! I don't really care for big dogs, I love little dogs but don't feel like I'm ready for a dog in the house.....YIKES!!! Shally has a pet day at school in the next few days, and I'm debating on surprising her, any suggestions????? Help me... I'm thinking the best dog to get is one that is free, but for some reason I am in love with the high end dogs! Help me out!

Blaaaahhhhh!!!!!

I hate cleaning out refridgerators! It has been soooooo long since I cleaned mine out last. I know, it's horrible. I don't have any outdated food by any means, it's just the little spills my kids make and little pieces of food that are dropped behind things, etc. What a pain! Any ideas or little tricks you have learned to make this job easier!!! No wonder I haven't done it for so long, I really do not like doing it! But it is clean and sparkling, and now we can REALLY see how empty it truly is!!

Happy Mothers Day!!

I found a few poems that I thought were good!
Happy Mothers Day Everyone, and especially to my mother!
I love you mom and am grateful for all your love! You are
the best!!

MORE THAN A MOTHER
When God set the world in place,when He hung the stars up in space,when He made the land and the sea,then He made you and me.
He sat back and saw all that was good,He saw things to be as they should.Just one more blessing He had in store;He created a mother, but whatever for?
He knew a mother would have a special placeto shine His reflection on her child's face.A mother will walk the extra milejust to see her children smile.She'll work her fingers to the boneto make a house into a home.
A mother is there to teach and guide,a mother will stay right by your side.She'll be there through your pain and strife,she'll stay constant in your life.
A mother will lend a helping handuntil you have the strength to stand.She'll pick you up when you are down,when you need a friend she'll stick around.A mother is one who listens well,will keep her word; will never tell.A mother never pokes or priesbut stands quietly by your side,giving you the strength you need,encouraging you to succeed.A mother is one who can be strongwhen you need someone to lean on.
You're more than a mother to me;a reflection of Him in your face I see,a love that knows no boundaries.I'm glad that you chose to beall this and more to me.You share a love that knows no end,you're more than my mother,you are my friend.
~By Kari Keshmiry~

A MOTHER'S LOVE
There are times when only a Mother's loveCan understand our tears,Can soothe our disappointsAnd calm all of our fears.
There are times when only a Mother's loveCan share the joy we feelWhen something we've dreamed aboutQuite suddenly is real.
There are times when only a Mother's faithCan help us on life's wayAnd inspire in us the confidenceWe need from day to day.
For a Mother's heart and a Mother's faithAnd a Mother's steadfast loveWere fashioned by the AngelsAnd sent from God above.
~Author Unknown~

YOU WERE THERE...
You were there when we took our first steps,And went unsteadily across the floor.You pushed and prodded: encouraged and guided,Until our steps took us out the door...You worry now "Are they ok?"Is there more you could have done?As we walk the paths of our unknownYou wonder"Where have my children gone?"Where we are is where you have led us,With your special love you showed us a way,To believe in ourselves and the decisions we make.Taking on the challenge of life day-to-day.And where we go you can be sure,In spirit you shall never be alone.For where you are is what matters most to us,Because to us that will always be home...
~Author Unknown~

Fun Fact

So it has been a REALLY long time since I have posted any fun facts, so today I thought I would post a few more!

1. A baby octopus is about the size of a flea at birth! (yummy, yummy... octopus salad!) How's that for your GAG reflex AMY!!!

2. An Ostrich's eye is bigger than it's brain!

3. The world's youngest parents were 8 and 9 and lived in China in 1910 (WHOOOAAA!!! That would be like Shally having a baby, and I'd be a grandma!)

4. The IRS employees tax manual has instructions for collecting taxes after a nuclear war. (You can never be too prepared!)

5. Dragonflies can travel up to 60 mph. (too bad they aren't life sized, we could ride them around and save on gas!)

I think that's enough for now, I'll make another google pages on my sidebar later!!

I am fascinated with facts like these!! So share one, if you have any!

Extra curricular Activities

Does anyone have any thought about activities for children and how much is too much or how little is too little.

I want to have my girls in dance again, but it is so hard having 3 different classes (4 if I were to put Addi in, you can start at 2) and then if Dawson wants Karate, that is 3-5 different classes at 3-5 different times. Not only can I not afford the classes but the gas or the time spent traveling to and from.

So what do you think, do you think I should find extra money and time and put my kids in all the things that they would like, or would I be an o.k. mother to let them just play after school like they do now. They don't even notice that they aren't in anything until one of their friends mention something.

Give me your opinion!

Bar-B-Q

Wow, I didn't realize that I didn't update my blog the other day, I sat down to do it, and must have gotten distracted. I dont' remember what I was going to blog about but here's a new post anyway.

Yesterday was a beautiful Sunday, other then the usual Sunday morning feelings of "WHY am I going through all this hassle, just to get to church and have the kids act CRAZY! I actually ended up not going to sacrament meeting. I woke up at 6:30 and decided to take advantage of the quiet and read my scriptures and do a little meditating and time got away from me. My mom called and asked if we were going to church and I said "Yep, we're just starting to get ready, I might be a little late though!" Then she said "Jaime, you're going to be more than a little late, it's 8:45" Yikes church at 9:00 and half my family wasn't even awake!!! So we missed sacrament meeting.... to which my children all said "SWEET" when they found out. Naughty kids!

Anyway, to the subject of my post, it was so warm and beautiful that we fired up the camp chef and barbequed our meat! It was a nice family day!

Addi dressed herself, in Shally's shirt, Shally had some sour lemonade, Briella could live in her pajamas all day, Dawson has become Spiderman full-time, and Jennasea is just watching them all, thinking how crazy they are!