the Rest of Forever

First snow

2011-01-13T23:19:00.001-07:00

On our way to grandma's house today Sariah saw and recognized snow for the first time. She saw it last christmas but was too little to get excited and won't remember much from when she was 18 months old. Today she was beyond excited and demanded that we stop the car so she could touch the snow. I vow to one day live in a city where it snows regularly during the winter months. Both of my children, myself, and my husband love the snow.

On my mind...

2011-01-13T23:10:00.001-07:00

My little man is amazing! Oh how I feel so blessed to be his Mom. He is smart, handsome, thoughtful, loving, kind, so funny and witty, and the best hugger! Yes there are days when he drives me crazy, he is only 9 and not perfect yet. But don't all kids drive their parents crazy? His mind is always on the go. He is never just sitting there thinking nothing. He is also very perceptive to all that is around him. He is so much like his father that sometimes I don't know wether it is a blessing or a curse.
I love my little man and all that he is!

Happy Birthday Jesus

2010-12-27T00:03:00.001-07:00

My favorite tradition each Christmas is the birthday party we throw for Jesus. The last two Christmas' we have been with all the Utah relatives staying at my Mom's. Having our big meal and party to celebrate the Savior's birth all planned out for us.
This year we weren't able to go up to Utah so I got to plan my own birthday celebration. It was awesome. I prepared lots of middle eastern/ Greek food, made a birthday cake and invited over some friends. Our house was full of people just like I was at home with my family. Seriously it made my whole Christmas.
After we ate lots of yummy food we took a moment to talk about the greatest gift the savior has given us. We also wrote down our present this year for the savior. It was such a wonderful evening.

Buddies

2010-12-23T13:36:00.001-07:00

Sariah is loving the fact that her brother is able to play with her all week. She might yell and scream at times but he is her favorite playmate!
Justin has been so patient with his little sister. When she is nice he loves it. When she is cranky he is normal and gets frustrated.
I call Justin bud or buddy often. Today for the first time Sariah keeps saying Justin buddy as she plays with him.
I love watching them play happily together, it makes all the fighting they do seem nonexistent. I love Christmas break!!!!

Santa at the Mall?

2010-12-14T21:48:00.002-07:00

Went to the mall today with this little cutie to get her picture taken with Santa. We stood in line and waited our turn to find out that they weren't going to let me take a picture with my camera. I had to buy their cheapest one photo package at $17 if I wanted to get a picture with him. So disappointed in the mall but life will go on.
Little Miss is getting so big and has sooo much personality. Love it! She keeps surprising me with her vocabulary and her ability to do anything she puts her mind to.

Bedtime

2010-11-17T12:20:00.001-07:00

At our house we try to get the kiddos to bed by 8pm. Most nights this comes with some whining and excuses of the need to use the potty one last time, a drink of water, one more story, and whatever they can come up with.
One night last week the whining was nonexistent. Giggles were heard and lots of hugs were being given. I snapped a few shots with my phone and fell in love with this shot. These are my 3 favorite things I am so eternally grateful for!

Little singer

2010-11-17T12:08:00.001-07:00

Last night as little miss was going to sleep she started to sing a song about our day together. It was such a needed boost to my mothering skills. Since she is two her day consists of lots of instances where she tries to exert her free will. Sometimes this can be trying. We went to see pictures of jesus yesterday and talked about him for 15 minutes. Last night as she sang her song she sang all about Jesus and loving him and He loving her. It was the sweetest thing. She has been singing her song today too! Love it. Love her.

Attitude of Gratitude

2010-11-12T14:04:00.001-07:00

Kids Club

2010-11-06T08:28:00.003-07:00

Sariah and I have our little routines through out the week. You know things to look forward to while big brother is in school. Sariah so wishes that she could go to school with her brother but not for a few more years.
Once a week we go to a free kids club at the mall. They sing toddler songs and dance around. She loves it. It is so much fun to watch her dance all around. I love my one on one time with my little gal. She has so much spunk and personality.
I snapped this picture with my new phone this last week. She is doing the wheels on the bus. Here she is with the mascot for the kids club. Looking a little skeptical.

Beautiful smile on such a beautiful girl.

Halloween!!!!

2010-10-31T22:15:00.003-07:00

Okay so it has been forever and a day since I last posted but I am going to do my best to get all caught up from the summer and post what is happening now. I want to get everything on here because this is counting as my journal and I don't want to miss out on the memories.

We are going to start with Halloween. Halloween this year was on a Sunday. At church we had a trunk or treat party the week before Halloween. Then the Saturday before Halloween I took the kiddos over to a neighborhood we used to live by that was doing trick or treating a day early.

Cute little Sariah had multiple outfits she wore for her week leading up to Halloween. The night we officially went trick or treating she chose to be Super Girl with crazy color hair.
Sariah twisted my arm a little to color my hair too. I put my wings on from last year and pretended to be the tooth fairy.

Justin was a crazy soccer player...crazy because he has greenish hair and it's sticking up all over the place. I love this picture because it's a genuine Justin smile.

This is the fake smile but still so handsome...isn't he getting so big.

Sariah was fascinated with the glow bracelets and kept trying to show her Pops how to put them together. She loves her Pops.

James was unable to go trick or treating with us on Saturday night due to some work he had to get done so it was the 3 of us. We had lots of fun.

In these pictures you can see the craziness that started the night off...and it was before they got sugar in their blood streams...can you imagine how it turned when they had sugar? We had lots of fun and walked over 6,000 steps. (I know the steps because my bodybugg told me so.)

I am His Daughter (EFY 2010)

2010-10-29T00:36:00.001-07:00

Heard this song for the first time at Girls Camp and fell in love with it....hope you enjoy,

I am His Daughter by Nicole Sheahan

The photos in the magazines
Don't dictate who I'm supposed to be
The world can't recognize, all that I am inside
But I know in His eyes, I am a part of, the bigger picture,

There's so much more to me
He helps me see that I have so much to offer
I am His daughter
He loves me the way I am,
He's my strength when I stand
He is my King, and my Father,
I am His daughter.

The people on the TV screen,
The leaders, rulers, and queens
I watch them shape the world,
And though I'm just a girl, I still know for sure,
That I am a part of, the bigger picture

There's so much more to me
He helps me see that I have so much to offer
I am His daughter
He loves me the way I am,
He's my strength when I stand
He is my King, and my Father,
I am His daughter

And when I'm feeling small,
And wondering if I'll ever, find courage to stand tall
Through His love I remember

There's so much more to me
He helps me to see that I have so much to offer
I am His daughter
He loves me the way I am
He's my strength when I stand
He is my King, and my Father,
I am His daughter

Coming Back.....Girls Camp Memories

2010-10-18T14:49:00.002-07:00

Okay so it's been way too long since the last time I posted on my blog. I have so many pictures to post from this summer and beginning of school, that I don't know where to begin. Life has been going great with it's ups and downs and all the in betweens. I wanted to begin my come back to the blog world with just some quick words and one picture.

I spent 4 beautifully cold days with these 17 people at girls camp last week. It was amazing. Yes it was cold, cows mooed all night, coyotes scared us to death, my legs ached from repelling, caving, and hiking, and I managed to get sunburned but I would do it all over again!
Our camp theme was "Your Happily Ever After" based on the talk by Dieter F Uchtdorf. Great talk check the link and read it!
I was naive enough to think that girls camp was for the girls and the leaders were just there to help. I learned so much and loved every bit. So thankful for the opportunity I had to attend and hope I will be able to go many more times.
I will post more pics from camp at a later date.

January visits from Texas

2010-08-16T00:27:00.000-07:00

Seriously wish this lady lived next door. She is the best and I can talk to her like no other person. I look up to her in so many ways. She is an amazing mom, knows everything about homeschooling, health, natural birth, chiropractic, and loves to watch movies. She is the best. We have so much fun when we are together. I am glad she was able to come out to AZ to visit her family who live out here and spend a few days with me as well. Hopefully next time she visits I will take a picture of her and me together.

Her kiddos and mine watching a movie.

Are they just so beautiful?

Seriously Sariah looks like she could be their sister.

Playing at Peter Piper Pizza

Climbing on the Merry-Go-Round is totally allowed.

Such a happy baby.

Sariah loved playing with her friends.

Sariah also loved January's lap.

The kids had fun one day out in the water.

Even though she is blond and wearing a similar swim suit this is not Sariah....it is her twin from another mother.

To much

2010-08-15T21:17:00.002-07:00

There is way too much to catch up with and I don't even know when I will have the time to do it. But know that we are alive and well. I am going to try and get some posts caught up before we leave again. The whole summer has flown by and Justin is in school again. Lots of fun pictures to post. Sure do love you all.

Lukas visits Arizona

2010-08-14T00:14:00.005-07:00

I was so excited to have Luke for 2 weeks. While he was here we went swimming, played games, out to eat, to the movies, shopping, church, and lots of other fun things. There is a 19 year age difference between me and Luke but that doesn't keep us from having an awesome sibling relationship.
He is so much fun and at the same time so mature for his age. Being the youngest of 12 requires a lot of strength and love. He loves everyone of his siblings and their attachments. (Attachments being spouses and children.) I was so glad he got to come down and visit for a bit.
We went out to IHOP for dinner one night with Luke. He started the entertainment off with a spoon.

Grateful for the man who took us all out to eat. Love him.

Then Justin joined in the fun.

Of course Sariah wants to do everything the boys do.

Justin had to see if the fork would work too. :)

Playing around on the bike rack.

Copying her big brother.

Seriously can these 3 be any cuter? Oh I doubt it.

Watching movies with January's kiddos.

Same people, same couch, different day.

Playing in the sprinklers

Having fun in the water on a hot August day.

I really hope Luke can come down every summer. I promise to take better pictures next time.

First Day of School 2010

2010-08-11T23:04:00.001-07:00

For some reason school starts in the middle of August in Arizona. I personally think it starts so early because they feel bad that the kids are stuck at home all summer and can't play outside because it's sooooo stinkin hot here. I hate that it starts so early but this year Justin was so wanting to go back to school.
He started 4th grade with a whole new challenge. This year he is part of a combo class. It is a 4th/5th combo with all the ELP students. ELP stands for extended learning program. It is a program for gifted students who need a little more of a challenge. You have to take a test to get into the program and once you are in it you don't have to test again. Both his ELP teacher and his main teacher seem amazing and so experienced with students like Justin. It might be a little rough for him not being the best in the class since he will be surrounded by a whole bunch of kids at the same level. Really looking forward to see how this year turns out.

Morning Buddies share some smiles before we take Justin to school.

All dressed and ready to go. He didn't want to wear anything new to school. My boy who used to love his kahki's and polos is now in love with t-shirts and athletic shorts.

Love this face.

Snapped a shot right before the bell rang....I think this is the I am embarrassed that my mom is here taking this picture.

Uncle Luke was with us when school started so I had to get a picture of the 2 buddies. He helped me caarry Justin's school supplies. I can't believe he is in 4th grade.

Trip to Utah: Driving Home Day 7

2010-08-02T23:58:00.001-07:00

We left Utah bright and early and got a good start on our trip back. Everyone did pretty great in the car and we took the trip home slow, making a whole bunch of stops.
Here we stopped at the Utah/Arizona state line with Lake Powell in the background.

The bridge that we drove over.

Lukas and Justin being silly.

Opps forgot to read the sign.

Luke was nice to let Sariah decorate him with stickers.

The largest dream catcher I have ever seen.

Cute little guys.

Sticker queen

The girls

We made it home safe and sound with no speeding tickets.

Trip to Utah: Sunday Day 6

2010-08-01T23:39:00.001-07:00

Sunday at the Hinkson home is always filled with lots of people, food, sleeping, and more people.
Little Miss Sariah found a quite spot to color for a moment.

James fell asleep with lots of people around, this is a skill that you get when you grow up in a house with tons of people. You sleep where ever you can.

Bruce is the youngest of the Hinkson clan being the last of the 5 grandbabies in 2010. Bruce is Ralph and Julie's youngest.

Amber is their oldest and she loves her Papa Kent.

Handsome Paul is getting ready to go on his mission. Papers are almost finished to be turned in. He will be 19 in October.

Look at this cute face. He loved being surrounded by older boys to play with.

My sister Rachel made her famous popcorn and everyone is enjoying it in this picture. Love how all their hands are in their mouths.

Sariah loves her uncles.

Grandpa Kent and Grandma Ladybug with Bruce.

Ralph getting kisses from his daughter Amber.

Cute Hannah and Amber, sisters.

Give me a kiss, momma.

Cousin popsicles

I love that they still kiss each other after 19 years of marriage.

Sariah loves her Aunt Tallie.

Learning how to weed from Grandpa

Tallie and her hubby Nick.

We said goodbye to everyone this night since we driving back to AZ in the morning.

Trip to Utah: Visiting Grandma Gifford Day 5

2010-07-31T23:35:00.000-07:00

While we were in Utah I got an opportunity to drive up to Pocatello, Idaho with my brother Ian and his family to see my Grandma Gifford. I was glad that I got to see her on my trip.
We took Grandma to ButterBurs for some yummy food and good laughs.
This was the first time Grandma got to meet Constance. Her 8th Great Grandkid.

Sariah wanted to do whatever Sean did. He laid on the floor. She followed.

Grandma spending time with her Great Grandkids.

My cute cousin Katrina came over with her two girls to visit for a second. Her girls are on the right and the girl on the far left is a girl she babysits.

My Grandma and Me with the cuteness in the middle.

Oh how I love you Grandma Gifford. I wish you didn't have to get old.

I still wish Justin would of come with us on this long road trip to see my Grandma but he chose to stay and play with his uncles. Here are Ian's kiddos and my Sariah with Grandma.

Trip to Utah: Park City Mountain Resort Day 4

2010-07-30T23:12:00.001-07:00

I really can't go to Utah without visiting my Park City family. I love these ladies. They are so wonderful and have seen me thru many different stages of my life. It is so hard not to see them every day.
Lou, Deby, Me, and Jennie Lee

All of us with the kiddos. Turner is Jennie Lee's boy that I used to babysit. I can't believe how big he has gotten.

I told you Justin was the best big brother. Here he is entertaining Sariah after our lunch.

We got some free passes from my friends for the alpine slide and coaster. Justin was a little afraid of the ski lift that took us up. Can you tell?

Little Miss wasn't afraid at all....I had to hold on tight to this one cause I thought she might just jump right off. Scared me to death.

Waiting patiently in line for our turn on the slide. It rained a little bit so we had to wait for it to be dried off.

Kiddos practicing for the real thing.

It was a lot of fun going down the slide with Sariah. She kept saying wee this is so fun, I like this mom.

While the boys stood in this long line for the coaster.

Sariah and I played on the little kiddo rides. Here she is on the airplanes.

She made friends on the train ride. They almost look like they could be sisters.

I love Park City Mountain Resort! After working there so many different times it almost feels like a home away from home. I will continue to go to PCMR whenever I am able, not only to see friends but to enjoy the mountains.

Trip to Utah: Family Dinner Day 2

2010-07-28T22:57:00.001-07:00

After a good nights sleep I forgot to get my camera out until the family dinner when everyone started coming over for dinner at Mom's. I got to meet more of the new babies.
Cute Constance sleeping was number 4 of the 5 babies born this year.

Sean is her big brother and we just love him to pieces. They both belong to my brother Ian and his amazing wife Sarah.

Love it.

Lots of grandkids playing in Grandma's play/tv room.

Baby Dragon was number 2 of the 5.

Cynthia is married to my brother Kent and the mom to 4 kiddos. She is amazing.

Little Miss Constance and her Daddy.

Cute Ezra again.

After the dinner I couldn't find Sariah. I looked all over.

And this is where I found her peacefully reading a book all by herself. She can be a social butterfly one minute and happy as a clam all by herself.

Trip to Utah: Driving Day 1

2010-07-27T22:31:00.000-07:00

I got the opportunity this summer to drive up to Utah for 2 trips. We were so lucky to hang out with Utah family this summer. Our first trip to Utah was to visit with all the newborn babies and bring Lukas back to Arizona with us for an extended visit.
My kiddos travel soo much better during the day. I like to drive at night but to keep peace in my car and mind I would much rather drive in the day time so they are happy. I woke them up at 7am and got us going in the car right away. Yes they stayed in their jammies. Please disregard that this photo was taken while driving.

Justin got a hold of the camera while I was driving and took a close up of the tater tot.

While waiting in the drive-thru for our lunch I snapped a shot of the dressed kiddos. He is such a handsome little man and helped so much this trip. We had fun making noises and laughing most of the 10 hours.

Justin is a good camera man....our wait at the drive-thru was like 15 minutes.....we stopped at a little mom and pop diner that had a drive-thru. The officer who pulled me over for speeding recommended it. It was really good food and I didn't get a ticket either. I was speeding, so he did pull me over for a valid reason. He came to my window, all ready to give me a ticket when this little sweet 2 year old voice from the back said, "Hi". The officer seriously became mush. He was smitten with my two year old and gave me a warning. Isn't that the best?

How I love being their Mom, they are the best!

As soon as we got to Grandma's house my kids ran around like crazies with their cousins and uncles. Being couped up in a car for 11 hours is rough.

Sariah and Abe play so good together.

Can you tell that we are sisters? Neither of us wore makeup that day....

Rachel hardly ever smiles for cameras so this has to be documented.

I love my mom, Grandma Ladybug. I really do love spending time with her whenever I can. She is a little crazy and yes it is herititary.

This little chunk was number 3 of the 5 babies born this summer. I was so excited to see Mr Ezra.

He loves talking to his Momma. He even wore a turtle for me.

Sariah loves her Papa Kent.

So happy to be out of the car and playing.

Family Fun at the Park

2010-07-25T22:15:00.000-07:00

Some Sundays we take a walk as a family to the nearby school park to play outside together. We love spending time outside when it's not too hot. Even though it was a July afternoon here in Arizona the wind was blowing hard enough to make it bearable.
Justin and Sariah running in the big open field.

Candid Shot of me and the man I love with all I have to love!

Daddy and his princess

Little Man is amazing! Ready to send the Helicopter flying high.

Sariah's face explains the excitement.

Look at it go. Daddy just helped her send the helicopter into the sky.

Running to tell me what had happened.

I love him!

Taking a break.

Where we spent a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Backyard at Pop's and Honey's

2010-07-23T14:24:00.005-07:00

We love to hand out at Pop's and Honey's house. It is so much fun for my kiddos. They love their Pops and Honey. They also love their Brynn, Menleigh, and Laurel. One night this past June we went over to hangout for a bit and played in the backyard for awhile.

Sariah loves one on one time with her Honey. Can you just tell in that smile?Swinging with Honey.

The rest of the kiddos and I played a random rendition of Badminton.
Here are some pictures taken by Laurel and myself.

Menleigh helping Brynn serve.

Trying to teach Justin how to catch flies while he serves.

Being silly

I think they might have scored.

Action shot.

Is Menleigh done with me taking pictures?

Yep

Love hanging out with family and playing games.

Morning in the Park

2010-07-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

Before it started getting too hot this summer break we took a few early morning bike rides to a park not to far away. We would feed the ducks, play on the swings, and run around. Getting home before 9am was the goal...if we were out after 9 then we were too hot.
The kiddos love the bike rides to the park and I can hardly wait for it to cool down a little so we can do it again.
See the happiness in his face?

One happy little gal.

Chasing the ducks.

Chasing the brother or the sister? Who is chasing who here?

Fruit Leather snacks are the greatest!

These 2 can get along so wonderfully. I love it when they are playing with each other and not screaming.

Final Soccer Game of the Summer

2010-07-17T21:47:00.001-07:00

Summer soccer wasn't Justin's favorite. Most likely we will not do it again but I had to post about his final game.
I took some great pictures at this game but I love this one the most! These 2 really are the greatest kiddos and love each other sooo much.

Here they were pretending to sleep during Justin's half time. It was so stinkin hot. We do live in Arizona.

Even though she was sweating to death she still found the energy to run around like her big brother.

The star of the team for sure. He really was all over the field defending the goal like crazy. He sweats like a polar bear in the desert. I love this shot of him running.

Here he is getting his trophy!

Sariah wanting to be in with the big kids.

The whole team. They did go undefeated but they only played 6 games and it was the same team every game. (lame)

Shooting with Pops and Honey

2010-07-16T21:56:00.001-07:00

James and I took Honey and Pops shooting at the range. It was a fun double date for the 4 of us. We were celebrating Honey's belated birthday present.
Here is Honey shooting the 22.

Me trying the 22 out.

James is an expert.

Then we pulled out the AR15 and boy howdy was that thing loud!

Pops totally loved shooting it.

I love my army man. It was very hot at the indoor range....there were a lot of people and the air conditioning wasn't circulating properly. Too bad Pops wasn't working he could of fixed it for them. You can tell we were sweating pretty great in this picture.

I was complaining about the kick of the AR15. I wasn't holding it right. I was scared of that loud boom.

James loves his new gun and could of just shot that thing for hours I am sure.

Some of my favorite people. Thanks for the great date night Pops and Honey!

Sprinklers

2010-07-15T11:20:00.000-07:00

As most of you know Arizona is really hot in the summer....really, really hot.
To keep the kiddos cool and happy we spend time outside once in a while under the sprinklers. They love it. Of course it isn't a pool but it is water and they are happy for what they get.Love this picture of Sariah, my favorite from the whole set I took. She is such a beauty and so happy here.

Cute man Justin is so funny when he sticks his face in the sprinklers.

Here the 2 of them are just having fun .

Sariah trying to be brave liker her brother but only gets her arm in the water.

This is his really happy crazy face...he is so funny and I love to hang out with him.

Summer Visit from Grandma and Grandpa Peel

2010-07-11T10:49:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to have Grandma and Grandpa here for Justin's birthday that we did not take too many pictures while they were here. We got a few of them at Justin's soccer game with Sariah. It was so hot and humid. I don't know how Grandpa survived it in his long sleeve shirt.

Sariah loved putting on "Papa's" Hat and glasses while he was here.

Papa loves being silly with Sariah too. Can you tell what is wrong with this picture?
(his glasses are on upside down)

Justin's 9th Birthday

2010-07-10T10:20:00.001-07:00

This year for Justin's birthday we were so blessed to have Grandma and Grandpa Peel visit. This was the first time they were able to spend time with Justin on his birthday and we loved having them with us in our new house.

Justin's Birthday started off bright and early with a summer soccer game. It was such a humid day for Arizona too. Grandma and Grandpa were so glad they got to see there great grandson play soccer.

We got home just in time to decorate for the party and make it over to the pool.

Our wonderful friends the Knights let us use their pool for Justin's swim party. Justin and Sariah both love the water.

This was the first birthday party that I have thrown for Justin were he got to invite more then one friend. He was sooo excited. The boys had a blast in the pool.

I love this photo of James and his Grandma. Love it!

The Happy Birthday Boy!

He asked for a carrot cake this year and I was so glad that the grocery store had one, because I did not have time to make it this year.

Last year Justin didn't get a big birthday with presents at all. So this year we went all out. He was so happy. He loves presents. Grandma and Grandpa got him a DS game.

Pops and Honey got him a rock tumbler.

All the boys at the party! He had so much fun.

Have to have the crazy picture too!

3 Years

2010-07-07T23:38:00.002-07:00

I can't believe that it has been only 3 years since the day that I married this wonderful man. It seems like a life time has passed in these last 3 years. So many twists and turns have occurred on our journey together in this life. It has been an adventure that I have been truly enjoying with him by my side.

We are far from perfect and our life so far together hasn't been perfect either. But we are perfect for each other and I feel so blessed to have him in my life. So far the greatest day in these last 3 years was the day that we knelt across the alter in the Salt Lake Temple and were sealed for time and all eternity, to each other and then to our children. Oh I will cherish that moment forever.

James, my love, you are my forever! Thank you for understanding my type of crazy and loving me still! I will love you for the rest of forever! Happy Anniversary Babe!

Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God

2010-07-02T14:51:00.001-07:00

Watched this video today and was so grateful for the wonderful mothers in my life, especially my own mother. I am also so grateful for the opportunity I have to be a mother and pray every day that I am up to the responsibility!

Summer Soccer #1

2010-07-01T15:12:00.000-07:00

This summer we decided to try out a summer soccer league here in AZ. The league we tried out wasn't the greatest but Justin enjoyed being the best player on the team. He was so much fun to watch as he pretty much took the ball from everyone and defended like crazy. But what was I thinking? Summer in AZ is so hot and soccer is outside. Next year we will look for an indoor summer league but this year we had fun with the one we signed up for even if it was super hot.

Here is Justin before his first game. He is getting so big. This kid loves his shirts to be big and his shorts to go past his knees. He is so handsome too!On the field with the rest of the players

Throwing the ball into play.

Sariah trying to stay hydrated and keep the sun off her head.

Love this little gal...isn't she just so cute!

Half time break with Dad always brings out the smiles.

Sariah didn't want to miss out on the fun either.

Wahoo they won!

Birthday Party #2

2010-06-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

Wahoo thank you blogger for letting me finish this post. I must admit I haven't even come close to trying to post this everyday. I don't normally sit down at the computer to blog that often. But tonight was my lucky night and all the stars aligned for me to be online and the pictures to upload. Wahoo again!
Sariah loves Elmo. When I found this recipe online , I just had to have a Elmo birthday party for her. The cupcakes were so much fun to make.
Cute Justin helped me decorate. He spelled Sariah's name out in pink cupcakes.

Pops and Honey came out to celebrate with us too!

I loved this picture of Sariah. She is just such a cutie all excited to open her presents.

Honey helped her open the presents from her and Pops.

Oh my she got an Elmo doll from Pops and Honey!

Elmo grew a number 2 candle in between his eyes and nose.

Big girl blowing out her candle.

Eating the candies off of her cupcake.

Sariah had been sick all week before her birthday so her appetite wasn't up to finishing her cupcake...can you see her eyes asking..."do I have to finish this"

We went to a park and BBQ'd for the party and had lots of fun. The kiddos played on the field and at the playground until way after it was dark.

We love the Z fam! They are an awesome family that are in our new ward and they came to celebrate with us. Here they are playing on the slide.

This lttle gal loves to play at any park I will take her too.

Seriously these 2 are so adorable.

Honey and Sariah with my sisters and Crystal. I had to post this picture even though it is blurry. Cause there was still excitement way into the night from all the sugar they ate on those cupcakes. We had tons of fun celebrating Sariah turning 2! Thanks to everyone who came and played with us!

Frustrated

2010-06-13T22:49:00.003-07:00

I am super frustrated with Blogger...I have been trying to upload photos for the birthday party part 2 for an hour this evening and it's giving me a horrible time. RRRRR! I know that I need to post pictures and will as soon as I can but until now know that our little fam is doing well.

Birthday Part 1

2010-06-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

Finally I was able to upload pictures! Wahoo for Birthday Part 1, hopefully Birthday Part 2 won't be too far behind.
A few days before Sariah's birthday we had the puking episodes. After all the puking was over she was fine the day before her birthday. But of course, Sariah woke up with a fever on her actual birthday, seriously no fun. I think I might have been looking forward to the big day way more then she was because I was so bummed we couldn't celebrate. I had her day planned every hour. Anyway, I called all of our friends and family who were coming to celebrate with us and canceled. Then little miss and I ate waffles on the couch and opened her first present....Elmo and Abby's Happy Birthday movie. Needless to say we watched movies the entire morning.
Her hair is getting so very long. Such a cute little 2 year old!

When she woke up from her nap she was feverless and wanted to play outside with Daddy and Justin. The boys were outside washing the car and Sariah just had to get on her suit and play in the water. I was just happy the fever was finally gone.

Big Brother teaching Little Sis how to wash the tires.

Daddy Man drying off his car.

Washing all by herself.

Getting some pointers from Daddy.

Justin cooling off.

Sariah wasn't brave enough to put it on her head but she loved playing with the hose.

Birthday present number 2 came when Pops and Honey came over to deliver one of their presents that they didn't think would last till the undetermined rescheduled party. Oh Sariah squealed so loud when she saw her birthday balloon. I don't know if she was more excited to see her Honey and Pops or the balloon. Since she hadn't seen them in almost a week. I was so thankful they got her a balloon. She loves them and it was on the list of things to do that morning, before I knew she was going to be sick.

She is holding her balloon in this picture, such a happy face.

Justin was able to give Sariah present #3 that night before he went to bed.

2 pink puppies!!!

She also got some stickers.

A memory game which she loves to play. We play it as a matching game right now and she loves to find the cards that match as the are turned face up.

A book for church.

And her big happy birthday doll house.

Sariah and I actually found this doll house at a 2nd hand store called Treasures here in Mesa. About a month before her birthday we were in the store browsing and I had stopped to look at a game on the shelf in front of me. Behind me was this doll house. Next thing I know I hear Sariah saying Mommy and I couldn't see her anywhere. She had crawled through the front door of the house and was laying down inside looking out the window. At the time their was only entrance to the house since the backside was up against the other items in the store. Sariah immediately wanted to take it home with us. I made the mistake saying well maybe we will get it for your birthday. My birthday? Was her little response. Then for the next month every time we passed by the store she would ask to go see her happy birthday. Thank goodness no one else thought this little house was a treasure since it was still there in the store the week before her birthday. I made her Daddy go pick it up for her and hide it in the garage. Daddy got to be her hero by bringing the happy birthday present into the house.

Poop

2010-05-31T22:09:00.003-07:00

This post might be a little to much information for you about Sariah's poop. If you don't like to talk or read about poop...don't read this post. Since I use this blog as a journal I am writting it down because I don't want to forget it. The author can not be held respobsible if you have issues with poop and continue to read. You have been warned.

Little Miss has not fully recovered to her 100% functioning intestines since she was sick with the puke almost 2 weeks ago. She has been having issues with the pooper. Seriously no fun.
Yesterday she had a problem going down for her nap. I let her read a book to herself in bed until she is sleepy. Most the time she is asleep within 15 minutes. Yesterday, she took about an hour before she fell asleep and then woke up an hour later.
For some an hour nap might be great but for my 2 year old...not so great. She was a mess when she woke up. At first I thought her problem was that she was so tired....which of course was a small bit of the problem but not the heart of it. Just as I started to get her calmed down she would scream in pain. My husband thought I was crazy and came and took her outside to distract her. When he brought her back in all she wanted was for me to hold her and I got her to almost fall asleep when she started crying again in pain.
This time I noticed that her tummy was tight and came to the conclusion that she had to poop. So I massaged her tummy and did some exercises with her legs hoping to help. Every time she tried to poo she would cry so hard and ask me "mommy tell me what to do". Finally I came up with an idea to put her in the bathtub and see if the warm water would help her tummy relax. I have a huge tub in my bathroom and the kiddos hardly ever get to use it. So I filled it up as a special treat to see if it would make her feel better.
Oh my goodness is all I have to say. Sariah and I were in the tub for 5 minutes when she asked to go potty. So she got out of the tub and successfully got a itsy bitsy turd out of her pooper into her little toilet. Congratulations were going on since that was the first time she pooped in her toilet. I wiped her, shocked that such a little turd was the problem, and put her back in the tub with me.
As we were playing in the water after a few minutes she says, "Mommy I have to go poop." The next words from me to get on the toilet don't even make it out of my mouth when I see this ginormous poop floating in the tub. It was huge. No I did not take a picture of it....that would be way gross. But it was huge and I don't know how it was able to fit inside my little girls intestines. Seriously it scared Sariah it was so big. She thought the poop was trying to get her and harm her. I would be afraid of that thing too if it had been in my body causing pain.
Well we clean her up and the tub. She proceeds to have 3 more poopy diapers....all diarreah. She seemed to make it through today with out any problems. She ate normal and had a normal range of diapers. I am hoping yesterday was the last of this but I don't want to hold my breath. This flu bug that hit our family is horrible and I am sorry if any one else is getting it. Our intestines are a mess, especially my little gal and I am just hoping that all the spinach smoothies I have been making will help repair the stomachs much faster.

Youth Conference: Be Strong!!

2010-05-31T14:47:00.001-07:00

As I back track to the beginning of the summer I come to Youth Conference with the 14 to 18 year old kids in our area. I was lucky enough to be asked to be one of the group counselors and had a blast. The theme for the conference was based from Joshua 1:9. "Be Strong".
It was a 3 day conference. First we had a BBQ and swimming to kick off the conference. Then our first day we had classes on various elements of living strong. The class topics were based from The Strength of Youth Pamphlet. Our next day we did service in the community. That night after our service we had a fancy dinner and dance that was loads of fun. James and I got to go as chaperon's for the dance since I was one of the group counselors. The following day was Sunday and we all went to church and then had a guest speaker that evening to close the conference.
I only took pictures during the time we were doing service. Why I forgot my camera all the other days I do not know but had an enjoyable time nonetheless.
For service the group of 5 I had with me got to paint fire hydrants.
Here they are at the beginning of the project.
During our lunch break they still had smiles

This kiddos were so much fun.

Painting our very last fire hydrant.

It was the dirtiest hydrant by far....doesn't that look like blood on there?

Here they are in their gq poses' after all the hydrants were painted....we painted 15 of them all around town.

Wanting to post

2010-05-27T21:40:00.001-07:00

I am totally in the mood to post Sariah's birthday pictures from her eventful weekend of birthday stuff but my computer is not working with me in the uploading of the pictures. So sorry you must wait till my computer savvy husband is feeling better and can spend some time fixing whatever is wrong with my computer.

Sickness

2010-05-24T21:42:00.000-07:00

If you have a weak stomach please do not read!! If you continue to read know that the writer can not be held responsible for what happens to you!

I wrote the puke post the day after the tater tot spent puking, not even thinking that I would have another experience with puke with in a few short days. Seriously Heavenly Father didn't think one puke day was enough for me he had to give me another one.
Saturday morning everyone woke up pretty healthy. I had taken Nyquil the night before and all my aches and pains were gone. I was determined not to be the one puking with this flu. So since everyone seemed great...since I was only checking Sariah and my temp....we rescheduled the Birthday BBQ and went forward with our plans. I spent the day getting everything ready for an awesome party.
The party was great. It was so great that we even ended up staying at the park later then expected. It was a Saturday night and we could all take good Sunday naps the next day, is the thought that went thru my head. So I got the kiddos in bed by 10pm and started cleaning. Cleaned the kitchen with the hubby and then took a long needed shower. As I was snuggling in my bed with my computer and reading email I heard Justin get up to use the bathroom....being almost midnight I was shocked. He never wakes up at night...he is a heavy sleeper!
I went to check on him as he was getting out of the bathroom and he said he woke up with an upset tummy. His tummy doesn't do well when he eats hot dogs....he loves hot dogs...but his intestines don't...he is hot dog intolerant...you know like lactose intolerant. He knows what happens when he eats them so I gave him a glass of water and tucked him back into bed thinking that was the last I would see of him. He giggled as I left him because when he jiggled his belly he could hear the water swishing around. That was the last time he giggled for 36 hours.
The next thing I knew, I was sitting in my room with my computer and I heard a very loud splatter and a moan. As I jumped up and grabbed the dirty towels on the floor from my husband's last shower, visions of puke everywhere was horrifying me. The only positive thought I had in the . 5 seconds it took me to get to his room was, I am so glad we still hadn't carpeted the house. The only positive side I can think of for living in a construction zone.
Thank goodness Justin had made it half way down the bunk bed ladder before he started to puke. But oh my poor little man was spewing red hot dog chunks everywhere just like I had visioned. (Red because the cupcakes for Sariah's birthday party were elmo.) It was nasty...oh so very, very, very nasty. His daddy's office is right next to his room so daddy got there first. I threw the towels on the floor where he was puking. I was amazed at how much had already come out. Seriously I didn't think he ate that much and he said he only ate 2 hot dogs. When he took a breath, my strong and smart husband picked up the puking kid and ran him to the bathroom. Where he continued to puke for what seemed like forever.
I would like to say that is where the puking ended and we all went to bed peacefully. But for the next 4 hours he puked every 30 minutes. It was so miserable for both of us. Miserable for little man because he got everything in his stomach out with the first puke session. Which meant he was puking what little fluid he would consume between each puking and then dry heaving the rest of the time. This is painful. I know from personal experience that I will spare you the details.
Miserable for me because, I sat next to him each time praying that it would stop. He was in so much pain and exclaimed at one point that he was going to die because someone was strangling him to death and he couldn't breath. His normally happy little face was so pale and sad.
Finally around 4:15am he had his last puke session for the evening. He moaned for about an hour and I would go check on him every 15 minutes just so he would know I was there. He hates to be alone when he is feeling normal so you can just imagine what he was like when he is feeling like he is going to die. Poor little guy was so miserable. By 5:50 Sariah was waking up and I checked on Justin one last time and encouraged him to do his best to fall asleep. He slept until 12:30. So almost 7 hours of sleep with no puking.
By the time little man woke up I was so exhausted from spending all night up with him and then all morning with Sariah that I could barely keep my eyes open. Sariah was so excited to see Justin that she kept trying to hug him and lay on him. Of course that didn't work too well with Justin. So I got her to eat some lunch and then lay down for a nap. As I got Justin started on a movie and encouraged him to drink something, I kept telling him that he was over the worst part of it. Dad came out of his office and told me to go take a nap while Sariah slept.
I was into a deep slumber when I woke up to Justin screaming Mom. He was puking again! After 8 dry heaving sessions the night before....9 hours later he was at again with puke number 9. As I ran to his side in my so not awake at all state, I realized that Dad was there next to him and returned to my bed before the dry heaving had begun. I was so tired.
I am happy to say that was the last time he puked. We battled a fever the rest of the day and he barely ate a thing. I think I got him to consume 3 crackers and half an astro pop. He went to bed with some children's tylenol and a bucket later that evening praying that he would not wake up to puke.
He woke up Monday morning all smiles but with a very little appetite. His fever was gone but I wasn't letting him go to school. Since the fever stayed away all day today he gets to go to school tomorrow. As he ate his Eggo waffles with no syrup this morning, he vowed never to eat hot dogs again. We will see how long that lasts....I probably won't ever buy hot dogs again which will make it last a lot longer.
I realize that there are parents out there who have sick kids all the time and I am so grateful in the almost 3 years that I have been Justin's mom this is the first time he has been horribly sick. He has had a runny nose or a small cough. He did have pink eye for 2 days once. But never anything this horrible before and I have a new found gratitude for the health of my children. I hope they don't get sick again any time soon. If it continues to happen every 3 years that is fine by me. If all it takes is me continuing to feed them healthy foods and getting them adjusted regularly by a chiropractor then I will keep that up!

Happy Birthday Little Miss

2010-05-21T12:51:00.001-07:00

All week you have been talking about your birthday and it is finally here Little Miss! We get to celebrate you! Wahoo!
I can hardly believe that it has already been 2 years since this picture was taken.

This year you have grown so much. You are walking, running, climbing, talking, singing, giggling, playing pretend, putting away the silverware, reading books to yourself with your own words "no more monkeys jumping on the bed", hugging, kissing, oh the list goes on. It has been an eventful year that is for sure. Wouldn't change it for a minute.

I feel so blessed to be your Mom. You are one of a kind. Not another like ya. Each morning when you wake up and give me that great big hug I thank Heavenly Father for sending you to me. I love you Sariah Marie and look forward to many more birthdays.

Puke

2010-05-19T23:50:00.002-07:00

I have pretty healthy kiddos. I am grateful for their health everyday. Today I was even more grateful as I held my almost 2 year old while she puked 11 times. Yes from the wonderful waking hour of 4:30 am to the early afternoon of 1:45pm she successfully puked 11 times. There was a 2 hour break from about 9:30 to 11:30 where she slept. So technically she puked 11 times in a 7 hour period.
I know I might be a little crazy for counting the number of times she did this but it was a bit frightening and I wanted to be able to answer any doctor's questions if asked. Plus I did 3 loads of laundry with enough towels and clothing items to fit a small family for at least 4 days. I have never been puked on so many times in my life. Seriously one time I thought I was going to vomit along with her it was so nasty as it ran down my shirt. Oh the joy of being a mom.
It was a rough day as we watched movies on the couch with her puke bucket and liquids. She laid so lifelessly it was sad to see. As she rested between vomit sessions she would say to me in her sad little voice "Mommy tell me what to do." I so wanted to take it all away from her and make her better instantly. When she fell asleep on my chest after the 11th puke I kept hoping it would be the last.
Thankfully it was and she was all smiles when Daddy came home. Which allowed me to get ready for my meetings this evening. She went to bed without puke and let's hope it stays that way. My day was less then productive and so sad for us both. Plus I want her to be better by Friday for her big birthday...yep...she will be 2.

Awesome Giveaway!!

2010-05-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends is having a birthday this Saturday and she is doing a birthday giveaway on her blog.
I blogged about her store a while back when she was doing the giveaway for these cute towels...

Go check out her giveaway
If you don't want to enter yourself...you can always do all the things and say you would like to give your entries to me... :)

Wolf!!!!

2010-05-18T20:53:00.005-07:00

Little Man had a pack meeting last night and earned a whole bunch of stuff. He worked really hard to meet his requirements to be a Wolf before he turned 9!
Here he is entering on the red carpet...it's a little fuzzy because the lights were out. Doesn't this picture just make you want to smile?

Doing their skit as a wolf pack.

This was little miss pretty much the whole night....can you here the whine?

I love that the give the Mom's pins for each badge the earn....here he is pinning me my wolf pin.

As a tradition in his pack he has to "wolf" down some whip cream to find the dog treat...or starburst. (as a side note please disregard my roundness in these pictures...no I am not pregnant)

Cleaning off all that whip cream.

Congrats to our little man! He is amazing in so many ways and we are so proud of him!

1st Place Reader!!!

2010-05-17T08:43:00.000-07:00

Last week was Little Man's last AR assembly. Each Semester they have one rewarding kids who meet their reading goals for the semester. Justin doesn't just reach his goal, he exceeds it every time. I can't remember if I have told you how brilliant my son is for a 3rd grader. He is a freaking genius! He reads at a 6th grade reading level. Soccer is his first love but reading comes in a very close 2nd. This year he seriously was reading everything.
Well all his reading this year paid off. He got the highest percentage for the entire 3rd grade. He worked so hard at getting his points. 4 days before the final reading test he read a book worth 21 points just to make his goal that much higher. (Most 3rd graders read books between the 3 to 10 point range.)
I was able to go with Sariah to school to see Justin get his award. My cute sister who is also in 3rd grade got 1st place for girls. He got a shirt, certificate, and medal. He seriously is such a handsome little man.

It was cute to watch Sariah cheer for Justin. When they said Justin's name the whole school cheered super loud. It was awesome! Justin took this picture.

After school we took Justin to Amazing Jakes to celebrate his award. Sariah loved to ride the horses with Daddy.

Justin and I hung out a bit having fun. Here he is waiting in the line for bumper cars.

Getting ready to bump.

Bumping around.

The little family before we left amazing jakes around 9.

It was such a fun Friday night with the kiddos. We are so lucky to be the parents of these 2. So many blessings, so many good times, so many smiles and tears....I am the luckiest by far.
Congrats again to Justin for reading the most! Love you!

Pedicures.....Sariah style.

2010-05-16T09:34:00.000-07:00

I know I have posted about pedicures before....I love them! They are the greatest things. Seriously, you can never go wrong in giving the women you love a gift certificate to get a pedicure....that is of course unless you are with a woman who hates to have her feet touched.
Anyway, for mother's day my husband had me go get a pedicure. I normally go by myself or with a girlfriend to get a pedicure but this time I decided to take little miss. It was her first time to go to the nail salon and she did such a great job. She sat on my lap and dipped her feet in the water as I soaked my feet and got them clipped.
Then when there was an extra gal to paint her toes they took her to her own seat and painted her toes. Oh she loved it so very much! Sariah picked out the color and we got matching purple toes. Hopefully this will become a mother's day tradition for the 2 of us.

Cute and Cuddly

2010-05-15T07:43:00.001-07:00

Here are some of my favorite things that I think are cute and cuddly.
Little MissLittle Man

The 2 of them together....Seriously these 2 make my days so much brighter....especially when they look this cute and cuddly.

Then we went to the park and enjoyed some other cute and cuddly things....like baby ducks.

Sariah and I got this close and she sat so still watching the baby ducks. I was amazed that I got pictures of it.

Menleigh's Talent Show

2010-05-14T05:50:00.000-07:00

Super Talented Piano player Menleigh was in a talent show. Here is the crew watching her.

Here she is performing.

First Pinewood Derby

2010-05-13T06:05:00.001-07:00

We experienced our first pinewood derby in the month of April. Justin had a blast making his car with Daddy...I wasn't there for that part so there are no pictures of the making process. They had such good bonding time.
Then the big day of the Derby came and they were all excited. All the cubscouts waiting for the race to begin.

Pinewood Derby is a serious event....look at this track.

Patiently waiting to race their cars.

Awesome leaders setting their cars on the track.

a look at the track

Justin's car is on the middle blue lane.

Oh he is so cute.....intently listening for his number.

Cheering squad.

Big Smiles

She really is laughing in this picture even if it looks like she is in pain.

Little Man didn't win but he had so much fun!

"Too Blessed to be Stressed"

2010-05-12T06:42:00.000-07:00

I blog stalk. I admit it and I am not ashamed. Some nights I go to random people's blogs that I don't know and get inspired. This poem was on a gal's blog and I loved it so much I wanted to share. I don't know the gal who posted it. She is a friend of a friend. But It was so inspiring. I keep getting reminded on how I need to be grateful for and love what I have now.
I am truly so blessed in this life and I am trying to love each day as they come to me.

Someone will always be prettier.

Someone will always be skinnier.

Someone will always be smarter.

Some of their houses will be bigger.

Some will drive a better car.

Their children will do better in school.

And their husband will fix more things around the house..

So let it go, and love you and your circumstances.

Think about it!

The prettiest woman in the world can have hell in her heart.

And the most highly favored woman on your job may be unable to have children.

And the richest woman you know, she's got the car, the house, the clothes~~~~ might be lonely.

And the word says, 'If I have not Love, I am nothing.'

So, again, love you.

Love who you are.

Look in the mirror in the morning and smile and say,

'I am too Blessed to be Stressed and too Anointed, to be Disappointed!'

'Winners make things happen~~ Losers let things happen.'

Be 'Blessed' Ladies~~~~~ and encourage another woman.

'To the world you might just be one person, but to one person you just might be the world!'

BBQ with our favorite Neighbors!

2010-05-11T13:31:00.001-07:00

Cute Justin had to plan and cook an outdoor meal for one of his cub scout wolf requirements. We planned on going to the park and having a little bbq as a fam but right before we left my loving husband said to me..."Who is coming with us?" Needless to say he wanted someone to talk to and hangout with while we grilled. So I called a few people to see if they had plans and one of our most favorite neighbors were not busy. Thank goodness they didn't mind the last minute BBQ invite....they even invited us over to their place to swim while the grilling took place.
Mind you this was in the middle of April so the water was a little too cold to enjoy for long. Here is Sariah testing out the water. Justin could careless if it was cold....he jumped right in.

My sexy man heating up our little camping grill.

Yummy veggie kabobs.

Awesome neighbor husband helping sexy husband with the grill.

The Carne.

Cutie Neighbor Son

Seriously I am so glad they live so close to hang out....just wish we could hang out more often. We had so much fun with our wonderful neighbors and I can't wait to do it again.
Awesome Neighbor and her hubby!

Thank you guys!

Eggs, Silly, Stickers

2010-05-11T06:16:00.000-07:00

Our first attempt at coloring eggs this year was done with brown eggs and Justin was a little disappointed that the colors didn't turn out so great. Lucky for him all the coloring stuff for eggs went on sale and I bought some more for us to try coloring eggs 2 weeks after easter. He loved it.
Such a happy boy with the finished eggs. All the eggs

so cuddly

Super Justin standing on top of my counter?

seriously I am so blessed to be their mom.

After our egg experience Sariah wanted to get out the stickers and decorate herself.

How could you not want to kiss this face?

She put the stickers all over....

Even on mommy.

Justin kept laughing and being silly the whole time.

Strategically placing the stickers

YW Volleyball

2010-05-10T21:49:00.001-07:00

3 weeks of Wednesday night activities were dedicated to volleyball. Here are some random shots of the awesome and amazing gals I get to be with every Wednesday and Sunday.

These 2 girlies are awesome and took some time to pose with the beautiful sunset before volleyball started.

An attempt at a group picture from our first set of games.

Seriously there are only 3 leaders in this picture...me, the coach, and the ref. None of the other leaders would get in the picture. We had so much fun with the gals the whole time.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T02:20:00.001-07:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!TO ALL THE WANNA BE AND SOON TO BE MOMS, MOMS, GRANDMAS AND GREAT-GRANDMAS OUT THERE!

Before I was a Mom,
I never tripped over toys
or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn ' t worry whether or not
my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind
and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held down a screaming child
so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night
watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a sleeping baby just because
I didn ' t want to put her down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces
when I couldn ' t stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small
could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom,
I didn ' t know the feeling of
having my heart outside my body..
I didn ' t know how special it could feel
to feed a hungry baby.
I didn ' t know that bond
between a mother and her child.
I didn ' t know that something so small
could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night
every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth,
the joy,
the love,
the heartache,
the wonderment
or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn ' t know I was capable of feeling so much,
before I was a Mom

Snuggling Siblings

2010-05-08T19:08:00.000-07:00

One morning in April I came out of the bathroom to find my kiddos peaceably watching a movie like this.....all snuggled up on the couch together.

They stayed this way for a good 20 minutes after I came out and I don't know how long they were this way before I got there....

Sariah really loves her brother and Justin really loves his sister....sometimes their moments aren't so loving as this picture but I love it when the moments like these are captured for me to remember when they are screaming at each other.

I am so lucky to be your mom!

Sunday Attire

2010-05-08T05:29:00.000-07:00

Here are my cute kiddos making faces...Justin is all serious and Sariah...well she is sassy!I think this is the greatest pic of these 2 together in a long time. These pictures were taken for the Sunday after Easter...

Here I got a smile out of her but she is shrugging those shoulders...I love these dress so much and it was only $5 at WallyWorld....it is so cute and matches one of my favorite hair bows from Cherry Blossoms.

Cherry Blossoms makes some great bows and this one is my favorite right now. My great friend Kiley is the founder, owner, designer, and okay...she does everything for Cherry Blossoms. It's hard for me not to buy every single one that she makes. Go check out her store or her blog . She is doing giveaways daily on her blog.

Kontiki Women's Rugby

2010-05-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

One of the leaders in Young Women's is a rugby player....yes a rugby player. Some of us got together and went to her rugby game....Love these ladies!

Would you be scared if you had to play against this line?

Trying to get the ball.

Wahoo they got it out of the pile.

We love #16!

The cheering squad.

Spring Celebration!

2010-05-07T07:36:00.000-07:00

This was my favorite part about coloring all those eggs....the kids getting up saturday morning to find them all.

I really love this man!

A mixture of plastic eggs and real ones.

The last egg to be found...

He finally found it!

Counting his loot.

Freestone Park

2010-05-06T19:27:00.000-07:00

The Friday before Easter the kiddos had no school. So I got my sisters and took them with us to the park. We love the fact that Freestone Park is so big and has so many different things to do for free.
Playing soccer and running around a huge field....free! Like climbing soccer goal posts....totally free.

Feeding the ducks tortillas. Bring your own bread and it's totally free too.

Climbing trees....yep...free. There is a person in this tree....can you see her shoe?

Rolling and running up and down the hills....Gratis!

Making new friends at the store...free!

Playing in the sand and getting oh so very dirty....while it is free...not my favorite!

Having treats isn't free but we love Mesa Frozen Yogurt.

Egg Coloring

2010-05-06T07:08:00.001-07:00

My cute kids are all ready to color some eggs. Eggs in the dye.

We had an outdoor activity while we waited for the eggs to color. Nothing like sidewalk chalk to pass the time away.

The funny thing is that as I write this post a month later the chalk is still out there on our sidewalk....it hardly ever rains here.

Sariah snacking on her popcorn.

Back in the kitchen to see the results of our first set of eggs.

You think she is excited? I don't think so.

There is the happiness that I love! They are truly the greatest kiddos in the world.

You can see that the fridge still wasn't installed in this picture.

Justin made this egg and it was our favorite one.

Smiley Crane and House Update April 1st

2010-05-05T18:43:00.001-07:00

It was such an interesting April Fools when you wake up to a huge crane in your front yard taking an air conditioner and 2 swamp coolers off of your roof. The new unit to replace the broken one.

Here comes one item off the roof.

All 3 are off and we are ready to set the new one up.

Thank you smiley crane for getting our new unit up on the roof....we are looking forward to air conditioning....

YW Tie Dying

2010-05-05T05:53:00.000-07:00

This was the first activity that I went to with the young women in my ward. We tie dyed some t-shirts. I don't have pics of the final products but I do have ones of the making.
These are such awesome girlies and I love being able to work with them each week.

My New Life

2010-05-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

Watched this video today and it made me so grateful for what I have been given in my life.

Posts

2010-04-18T22:21:00.002-07:00

I have a whole bunch of pictures uploaded with titles to each post but no words on them. I am in a posting funk again and maybe it was because I tried so hard to get caught up that I overloaded myself and most likely you with too many posts. I have a love hate relationship with my blog. I love that my family all over can be involved with our lives. I hate it when I just have no words to share. Maybe I will post them all with no words...just the titles and you all can figure out what is going on and make up your own captions? Really I just need to get out of my funk and move forward. What is your opinion?

Track and Field Day

2010-04-15T19:49:00.000-07:00

Track and Field day was fun for Sariah and I to attend.
Here is Justin's teacher Ms. G racing all the boys in the class....Justin is the one in the orange shirt. Justin is one strong little man and his team won all of the tug of war contests between the 3rd graders.

Sariah had a lot of fun cheering with me for Justin. She would say "Go Justin Go!"

My cute sister Laurel is also a third grader and Sariah got to spend sometime with her during the event.

Goodbye Utah

2010-04-15T07:59:00.001-07:00

3 Generations....Sariah squished in the middle. Seriously I think they are going to be bestest friends.

Fun with the Balmanno's

2010-04-14T20:19:00.000-07:00

I got to visit with some of my old college friends while in Utah. They are not old it's just been 12 years since we were in college together. I actually new them before there oldest was even a twinkle in their eyes...now she is 13.
I didn't take any pictures of my friends ... I just forgot. But I got the kiddos.
Here are the kids running around with the wagon and the dog. Sariah loved playing with these guys.

Thanks for letting us come over for dinner and play. We need to get together more often that is for sure!

Wing Night

2010-04-14T09:38:00.000-07:00

There are some people who just make you smile every time you are with them. When I worked up in Park City one season I made some friends who do just that, make me smile! 2 of them still live in PC and one now lives in Idaho. When they heard I was coming to Utah and they wanted to do a wing night just like the good ol'times. Matt drove down to PC from Idaho and they all drove down to Orem to see me.
We had a blast hanging out for a good 4 hours. Seriously, I haven't laughed so hard in such a long time. The weird thing about this group of people is that none of us are even remotely close in age, 2 of us are mormon and 2 of us aren't, but we have sooooo much fun together because we have the same sense of humor and goofyness. I love these guys and can hardly wait for our next wing night reunion.

Beautiful Deby and MattLovely Lou and I....Lou actually got carded for the first time in years at this fine establishment.

Mormon gals and their Diet Dr. Pepper

The Budweiser Water crew. :)

All 4 of us in front of the wings place being silly.

The Reason

2010-04-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

This lovely couple is the reason why I went to Utah for an extended weekend.
This is my best friend from High School, Leeonna with her husband Carlos.The wind was blowing like crazy and blew straight up my dress right when the picture was taken, so my dress looks a lot fuller then in should be.

Cousin Lovin

2010-04-13T07:56:00.002-07:00

Seriously these 2 cousins are going to be best friends. Sariah could not stop giving Abe hugs and loves. They are so cute together, I couldn't stop taking pictures of them. Love Abe's face

Will you share your M&M's with me.

Airplane! Trip to Utah

2010-04-12T20:26:00.004-07:00

Sariah and I got to leave on a jet plane to go visit Utah for an extended weekend.
Sariah was so excited to finally go on a plane that while we were at the airport she watched the planes intently. She would say, "Big Plane, Sariah's Big Plane?" Then I would ask her where we were going to go on the big plane and she would respond with, "Tallie and Ebe" Ebe would be her cousin Abe.

While in Utah we stayed with my cute sister Tallie and her little family. Sariah instantly wanted to follow Abe around every where....
Here they are pretending to take a nap.

Abe isn't really asleep.

Neither is Sariah.

This year my mom is getting 5 new grandkids. The one pregnant lady who is missing from this picture lives in Texas and actually had her baby boy a month early in February. All the pregnant ladies are so cute and so excited. My mom is getting 4 boys and 1 girl out of all the grand babies this year.

My brother Hugh wanted to be a part of the picture so he pretended to be pregnant too.

Left to Right: Cynthia is due in May, Tallie is due at the beginning of June, Sarah is due at the beginning of July, and Julie is due at the end of July. Aren't they all so adorable.

Sariah playing with some of her cousins. I took this picture to show how long my nephew Kent's hair has gotten....he is the one sitting on the floor with long blond hair.

Cute relaxing pregnant ladies.

My Mom and Dad Kent, with Tallie's hubby.

The first day I was there we celebrated my brother Kent's birthday...here he is blowing out his cupcake candles.

This gal knows what the good stuff is...she only eats the icing.

Kent enjoying his cupcake with the long hair.

Happy Craziness

2010-04-12T08:25:00.002-07:00

What happens to your 8 year old after he has had some sugary treat?
This is what happens to mine....happy craziness!He gets a little bit crazy and my once boy who doesn't want his picture taken starts posing.

Justin my little man, even though your happy craziness might not come at the right times....I love it, almost as much as I love you!

New Additions in the House March 21st

2010-04-11T20:18:00.002-07:00

I love craigslist for many reasons but the reason why I love it today.....we got a beautiful dining room table and big screen tv for a major deal. Here you can see both purchases....we got them from the same owners. I actually had been looking for a dining room table for some time on craigslist, waiting for the perfect find. When I found one in our price range and it looked from the pictures to be in great condition I emailed them immediately. The table is solid wood and so beautiful and so very heavy. When we went to pick up the table...did I mention that it came with a credenza too...the couple who we got it from asked if we want to buy their tv.

James of course had been wanting a big screen for a long time and asked them how much they wanted. They said make us an offer...which he did and they accepted his $200. Seriously, it was a great price for such a big tv and we love having it.
We brought the couch in from the garage so we could have a place to sit and watch tv. The doors were still in the picture and have yet to be put back in place since they are still not painted....that is another post at another time.

Gretchen, Mark, and Hank come for a visit!!

2010-04-11T08:08:00.002-07:00

Gretchen and Mark had a good friend get married in Arizona during the month of March and got to come visit us! I was so excited that Gretchen was coming to AZ for a visit, that I forgot to charge my camera battery before she got here. The only pictures I got of their weekend visit, were of us at the park when they first got here and then right before they left. We had so much fun while they were here and can hardly wait for them to come back and visit.

Gretchen took this picture of Hank and Sariah in the tunnel together and I love it!!!Gretchen also took this picture of Hank on the slide. He is such a cutie...and no I did not pull is arm out of the socket.

Here is Sariah in her favorite place at the park....right in the middle of the twisty slide. She will climb up it and look around to find who she wants to play with....right now I think she was looking for Justin.
Sariah and Hank got to swing together.

Justin loves his soccer ball and will play with it over and over again. He loved that Gretchen played soccer with him multiple times while she was here.

One of the great things that we did with Gretchen and Mark that we didn't take pictures of is when we went to Organ Stop Pizza. I blogged about Organ Stop Pizza a year ago when we visited it for the first time. There are some great pictures of the Organ from our first visit.
Gretchen asked me before they came if I knew of a good pizza place. Mark and Gretchen like to visit local pizza joints whenever they are in a new city, trying to find the best pizza. Since we are cheap and always get our pizza's at Sam's club I couldn't think of anything local to be the best pizza. Organ Stop Pizza is not the best pizza in town but is my far the most entertaining.
Mark and Gretchen loved it. I so wish I could of had a working camera when they saw the Organ for the first time. It was a great night.

Gretchen and I managed to spend the saturday morning before they went to the wedding, jumping around garage sales while the boys installed the microwave in my kitchen. We found many great things and both only spent $25 for a whole bunch of stuff.
Here is Hank playing with a chair Sariah earned for being so cute. The lady gave it to Sariah for free. You can also sort of see the little kids table I got for $7 in the background.

Right before they left to go back to California
Gretchen, Hank, and Mark

They bought be beautiful flowers before they left as a thank you for letting them stay with us for the weekend.

We love the Lewis family and are so glad they spent some of their trip with us!
Please come visit us again!!!!!

Mesa Arizona Main Steet Sculpture Photos

2010-04-10T20:28:00.002-07:00

During spring break we got together with my cute little sisters and some of Patty's nieces' and nephews for a tour of downtown Mesa, Arizona. They have these awesome sculptures/statues positioned all along Main Street. We went on a hunt to take some pictures with the sculptures/statues.

Here is cute Brynn with her cousin Phoebe. Our first set of statues that we found were of a Grandma sitting on a bench and what looks like her husband standing up with their lunch in the middle. Justin and 2 of the other Stark cousins are sitting on the lunch. When we walked up to the sculpture I sat Sariah down on Grandma's lap and she freaked out. She was totally not a fan of the stiff looking people.

But when I told the kids to make a crazy faces, little miss Sariah joined in and did a great job. Menleigh looks like she is getting tooo personal with Grandpa.

The Momma Bear feeding her cubs some fish.

Justin is pretending he is one of the cubs.

I don't even remember what this one was...but they all have such cute faces.

This was a huge shoe and the kids really had a good time trying to get on to it.

Cute little Zeke was to tired to be in the first few pictures and he took a snooze in the stroller.

This is the sculpture I wanted to see. I think this pink chair is so awesome. I should of made them take a picture of me in it...but I was too busy taking pictures of the kiddos.

My little sisters looking so cute. The lighting wasn't the best with it shining in their eyes.

My kiddos looking so little in the big pink chair.

Isn't he just the handsomest?

Is Menleigh kissing this guy too?

As you can see some kids started opting out of the pictures toward the end of our wal.

Peek-a-boo

I see you

Loved this one of Patty looking at the scrapbook with the kiddo sculpture.

Two cuties taking a break.

This pig was lots of fun....Justin jumped right on top of him.

We love Brynn!

Once again Sariah was afraid of the statue and her Honey had to show her how to kiss the pig.

Wahoo Sariah kissed the piggy.

Then she lovingly picked it's nose.

Looked at his toes.

Found his tail.

And gave him a love goodbye.

Our last sculpture for the day were these huge people. This was by far my favorite shot of the big kids in front of the tall people. They are sitting on top of the suitcase and I am on the ground.

Here are all the kiddos at the feet of the big people.

Funny facese

Brynn is so short.

Thanks to everyone for being good sports on our photo shot of Main Street. I had a lot of fun and the kids enjoyed Mesa Frozen Yogurt afterwards.

St Patrick's Day Bike Ride to Pioneer Park

2010-04-10T08:33:00.001-07:00

This year Justin's spring break was in the middle of March. Which meant he was home for St. Patrick's day. He was sort of bummed he didn't get to have the fun of pinching people who didn't wear green at school...made me wonder who exactly he wanted to pinch. To celebrate we dressed in green and had a fun bike ride that led us down to Pioneer Park.
Justin is a pro on the monkey bars.... 3 seats and only 2 children...another sign that I need to have another kiddo.

The great thing is that you don't need 3 kids to make it work when one of them is 8 and uses his smart tart brain to make the ride work for his little sister. Seriously...this kiddo is amazing!

Next time I will invite one of his friends to the park with us so he isn't so bored. But I loved that he played with Sariah.

Love this!

There was this little guy who fell in love with Sariah while at the park. He was following her everywhere and she was totally playing with him...she would sit down next to him.

Then get up and run away. It was cute. I am sure I won't think it is cute when she is 16. I have a feeling with all the cuteness that she is we are going to have to prepare her for all those boys who will want to follow her everywhere.

While Sariah was playing with the little boy Justin took a breather and swung on the swings.

Already to start the bike ride back.

Justin got a little too hot...can you tell?

On our way out of the park Justin asked to pose with the statues. There was no sign to say stay off so I let him climb up and get personal with the pioneers.

He totally fits right in!

Plastic Popping

2010-04-09T20:11:00.000-07:00

One morning before Justin had to go to school he entertained Sariah while I made his lunch....Can you see the piece of plastic that they are jumping on?

A good 20 minutes was spent popping this sheet of plastic. So much fun for all involved.

Kids will seriously entertain themselves with very little if you let them be themselves.

Flowers and Silly

2010-04-09T08:33:00.000-07:00

From these lovely pictures taken March 12th, you can see that some of the house is finished and some of it is still plastic. To the right of the beautiful flowers you see that the dining room is covered in plastic for James to finish the ceiling. To the left of the flowers you see the doors that are some what finished...all of them are primed and some are painted but none of them are finished as of today's date. Silly Justin with a ball in his shirt. Seriously this kid makes me giggle.

He makes Sariah giggle much much more.

A way to cure the construction zone blues is one get beautiful roses from my hubby for no reason.

And two have this kiddo as a son.

Even though life is far from perfect by many peoples standards...it is perfect for me and I love it!

Dessert and Show in a box

2010-04-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

Here is the entertainer and his prop. Now you see him

Now you only see his fingers

Here is the audience eating her yummy carrot cake.

Where did he go?

Ta Da...There he is!

Love you mom!

Getting back into the box...thought this was so funny.

Sariah was laughing the whole time.

I see you!

Such a ham.

Opps the box won't stayed closed.

Sariah didn't care what way he came out of the box...she loved it all.

Justin is the best big brother around.

House March 10th

2010-04-08T08:06:00.001-07:00

After the painters were fired the house work had to stop so we could move in to the rooms that were semi finished. James would do what he could for the next few weeks but I didn't take any pictures.
Here he is with Sariah taping the walls. He had to tape up the walls so he could texture and paint the ceilings in 3 rooms. Sariah was doing her best to make things smooth.

Yes my baby and hubby are so cute. And yes she is 21 months in the picture and still fits into her Bjorn. She is so darn tiny and cuter then ever.

Day at the Park in March

2010-04-07T20:18:00.000-07:00

As the house isn't the best place to hang out in with unfinished everything. We have tried to find other things to do. The park is one of Sariah's favorite things to do and if we have time before Justin gets out of school we go early to pick him up and play for a bit.
Her favorite part of the park is the slides. She loves to go up and down the slides as often as she can while there. Here she is at the bottom.

Oh wait...I want to climb up the slide.

And she kept going...I thought for sure she wouldn't make it up to the top.

But she totally made it and said "Ta Da" when she got there....these kids kindly got out of her way. Well maybe she might have screamed at them in her piercing way....I can't remember since we have been trying to break her of the screaming at other children habit.

When school gets out Justin comes to play with us. Justin is really Sariah's favorite playmate.

She wants to do everything he does.

Most of the time he doesn't mind.

Notice that Sariah's little feet are at the opposite end of the tunnel to Justin.

He was trying to surprise her but she just climbed in the tunnel to take a snooze.

So instead of going out the way he came in he climbed over the snoozing Sariah.

House February 28th

2010-04-07T08:14:00.000-07:00

The painters got the hallway half doneJustin's room completed

The kids play room completed

And then they also half finished the family room and kitchen before they got fired. I didn't take any other pictures of what they didn't do because it would be too many pictures.
It is a long story but the short version is that they weren't doing what they said they would do and what they were doing wasn't a good job. We paid them half in the beginning and regret doing that...but they didn't get the rest of the payment before they were told to go away. James has been working hard on the house and yesterday he finished painting all the rooms. We are boring and painted every room the same color. Maybe one day I will be adventurous and change it up. But for now it was the best option for the money we had to put into it.

Love these Faces!

2010-04-06T20:12:00.000-07:00

Living in a construction zone can be stressful but when you have these cute faces to look at you remember why you are sacrificing to give them a home.
Seriously she is looking so grown up with her cute Cherry Blossoms hair pretty and long hair. I can never get tired of his smiling face.