The Dunn Family

2012-01-15T19:12:00.000-08:00

Oh that Bailey....She keeps us laughing. We went to California a couple months ago and for the long car ride I gave the kids their own baggie of "muddie buddies". (It's a Chex cereal with chocolate, peanut butter, butter and lots of powder sugar). So at some point in our journey Taylar looked back at Bailey who was sitting in the very back of the car and started laughing. We all wanted to know what was so funny....Bailey was quietly minding her own business and eating her muddie buddies. Little did she know that was covered in powder sugar. She looked like she had been eating with her feet??? How does one get so messy at the age of 10. Did I not teach her manners? We all had a good laugh over that!!!

Jessey's turns 8

2011-12-14T22:12:00.000-08:00

Well I'm a little behind but I'll get there....Jessey's birthday was October 29th and she turned the big 08. For some reason she keeps growing up without my permission, I don't understand! Not only did Jess turn 8 but she also got baptized as well. I never imagined how bitter sweet this would feel. I am very proud of her and her choices, but that means I'm getting old! Yes, I said it OLD. You don't believe me? I have the wrinkles and lines to prove it. Anyway, when I was uploading my pictures I did them out of order....(not exactly my fault, blogger changed their format and now loads them differently)

These two pics are proof that my rules don't seem to apply when I'm out on a date night with Michael.

Rule #1 NO pets on the beds....let alone MY bed!

Rule # 2
The girls need to go to bed in their OWN bed, not mine! We've come home many times to find them all asleep in our bed. It's so hard to get them OUT!

So these next few picture are of Halloween!! It was fabulous! I love this time a year with all the beautiful colors and and the cool air. For the past 4 years we have started a new tradition with Halloween and ALL the candy that the kids bring home from trick or treating. So each child is allowed to keep 5 of their favorite treats and then we pile everything thats left over into a sack and give it to the "Halloween Witch" The witch comes in the middle of the night and takes that sack of candy and in return she gives each child a little toy or something. It's amazing how easy it is for the girls to give up the candy for a toy. But I'm not complaining ;)

Finally we get to Jessey and her Baptism (out of order of course). It was such a wonderful day. We had all our family up to celebrate with us. It was also FREEZING cold, but that never stops the cousins from playing soccer! Below are some pictures from Jessey's special day :)

For Jessey's birthday we had play off tickets for REAL Salt Lake soccer. Jessey wasn't sure she wanted to go to a soccer game on HER birthday. But she ended up LOVING it!! Plus as an added bonus REAL won!

We LOVE you Jessey and hope you had wonderful birthday!

A walk to remember...

2011-11-27T20:55:00.000-08:00

We are so blessed to live in such a beautiful Valley, especially in the fall with all the amazing colors!!! One sunday afternoon Michael wanted to go for a walk to the lake and "take it all in." I'm so glad we did because it was very humbling!

San Diego 2011

2011-11-23T22:00:00.000-08:00

This is probably without a doubt our most favorite trip we take as a family! Every other year the whole Dunn family spends a week in San Diego. Unfortunately the weather was a hit and miss (mostly miss) with warmth and sunshine! BUT, we wouldn't trade it for anything! AND, somehow the kids still boogie board....even if the water and air was freeeeezing!!!!

Below is a glimpse of what it looked liked most of our days.

For some reason Sunday's are always nice and sunny.....(too bad we don't get in the water) This year we went to Balboa Park to hear an amazing outdoor organ concert. And as usual we head to La Jolla when the tide is low so the kids can explore!!!

We made a friend while visiting the beaches of SD.... he's Frosty's cousin, Sandy!

(Ha ha, I'm so funny)

Yep, we're pretty much the only ones on the beach....

I still can't believe all the kids (and adults) got in the water....I think I'm the only one that didn't!!!! I took a lot grief for that! (ask me if i care)

I thought this picture was kinda funny....I don't think we ever cleaned our windshield!

So long San Diego...see ya in 2013.

What is going on?

2011-10-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

I am experimenting with "Blogger's" new Design options. I think this one is pretty cool, we'll see if it lasts....

So much has happened since the last time I've blogged. And it makes me sad that I'm not taking the time to capture them on my blog. Therefore I thought I would do a quick update of the fun we've had during the summer and into the fall! (You know I do this mostly for myself, so I can remember all the good times. I'm convinced I will get Alzheimer's and forget every precious little moment we spent as a family).

ps. these photos are all out of order....I'll do my bests to explain. :)

We have to start out with a cute picture of Maisy. She follows me everywhere in the house so while I was putting on my makeup she decided to to take a little nap on our clean towels. Awwww!

My dad was so kind to get tickets to Joseph and The Dream Coat and this is right before the show started. Thanks Dad!!

Now below are a bunch of GNO's while Michael had to travel for work. We had so much fun, I love my girls!!! We spent the night in Park City and went shopping, we skipped school and went to Color Me Mine and after one of Bailey and Taylar's soccer games we went to California Pizza Kitchen at the Gateway.

Flaming Gorge is becoming a regular summer vacation (at least twice in one summer). I don't know why I don't have more pictures to show? I must of been a bad photographer this summer! I have to share this pleasant picture of Michael and Jessey. Don't they look so happy with their sunburned faces! (I think this was around dinner time because Michael looks especially happy :0)

I know I know....not the most flattering picture of me :)

I think this is Morgan getting ready to swing and jump!!

Most of you already know about these next pics....I chopped 13 inches of my hair and donated to a friend of a friend with cancer. Best decision ever made!!!

(btw, Michael misses my long hair so I'll be growing it out again for him!)

Here's another cute pic of Maisy sleeping... ha ha!

Below are pictures taken at Tepanyaki in Layton. We went for Taylars birthday and they absolutely loved it....So fun!! Bailey's catching the shrimp in her mouth.

We had LOTS of soccer this summer....Bailey's team took first in the Park City tournament!

Maisy's first 4th of July parade!! She loved it. :)

Michael was a proud father this summer with two of his girls getting up on slalom ski. Bailey was funny to watch because she looked like she was wakeboarding while skiing. Taylar was the other one to get up.... but I don't have a picture. Sorry Taylar. (I do have a video!)

Oh ya and Jessey got up for the first time on the wakeboard!! Whew hoo!! Morgan also wakeboarded but no pic :(

Back a Flaming Gorge again....we took the "dam tour" and learned a lot. It really was fun :)

Taylar's first year of EFY. LOVED IT! This is her councilor and her cousin Gabby.

More soccer.......and another 1st place medal for Bailey's team!

Awwwww...

2011-08-14T20:21:00.000-07:00

It's so sad....they grow up so fast! Yes, I am referring to our puppy, Maisy! Isn't she soooooooo cute!!

Lake Powell 2011

2011-07-09T15:28:00.000-07:00

Well we had another fabulous week in Lake Powell with some Fabulous friends! Lots of good weather, friends, and food! Here are some pics from our trip :)

Here they are playing a game called Hand and Foot. Which I hate for two reasons....1- I am horrible at it (too much math) and 2- It takes foooorrrreeeevvveeeerrrr to play.

Gotta love the mud!!!

One of my favorite things to do in Powell is just hang out and talk with everyone.

Below are pictures of all the dads getting a "Father's Day Spa Pedicure" It was hilarious!!

btw, all the dads left their beautiful toe nail polish on for the whole trip. (Michael's is still on)!

Taylar's friend Emily was able to come with us. This was her first time to Lake Powell!! She loved it!

This is just about the whole gang!

Thank you everyone for such a great time!!! :)

His and Hers

2011-06-02T21:40:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my bedroom....I was straightening up the other day and laughed to myself as stood back and looked at Michael's nightstand, compared to mine. I think you can tell a lot about a person by how the keep their personal space...ie, hobbies, interests, bad late night habits, lack of order, what's important to them etc. etc.

The first two pictures are of Michael's nightstand and the last two are mine.....I promise I did NOT re-arrange anything. (I like how my scriptures are on top of my "self image" pile of magazines ....kinda funny)

Just a side note....I don't know if you notice but most of my magazines are how to be healthy, exercise, yada yada yada....and on Michael's side he's drinking a coke and eating candy. Funny!

Miss "Thaaaaang"

2011-05-24T14:18:00.000-07:00

In our house we have a saying for someone who is:

-full of herself

-has attitude

-thinks she owns the place

-is better than you

-princess

-acts like life is over as we know it

.....and the term is, MISS THAAAAAANG! (as you say this you snap your fingers from left to right with your lip curled up and having a look of disgust in your eyes.)

Now from time to time, Miss Thaaaaaang will show up at our house...un-invited!! And I have been able to capture her in action....take a look

Are they not the cutest?

2011-04-14T20:27:00.000-07:00

There's no going back now!!! Once you have the bug to get a puppy and then you go see the actual puppies....you can't say no to that face!! And the faces of your kids!!!! Hook, line, and sinker....thats me! WE are in LOVE with her, a female, fawn pug. She comes home next week and we cannot wait!! (Michael can). Here are some photos from my phone.... there not the best but I had to share them with you ;)

So CUTE!!!

Pizza anyone?

2011-03-28T14:12:00.000-07:00

For family night we made pizzas and cooked them in Michael's pride and joy....The Big Green Egg. (It's like a grill but better!) We had so much fun making our own creation of edible art, I had to capture the moment! I love these girls :)

Btw, the pizza's turn out soooo dang good on the "green egg" We'll have to have you over so you can try it too!

The Look...

2011-03-23T20:13:00.000-07:00

Michael and I have been married for almost 16 years and I've taken a lot of pictures of him in that time. And every couple of years I capture a very honest reaction of Michael getting annoyed by me saying "smile". I don't know why this is so funny to me but I laugh to myself every time I see them. (It's also fun to see how he's...... ummm....."filled out" over the years.)

this one is just 4 years after we were married....I think?

This picture was taken in 2004 and he is clearly happy with me :)

And finally, after 15 years of marriage I get a closed mouth smile. But don't be fooled I can still see it in his eyes!! Love you Michael

My quotable kid...

2011-03-08T08:50:00.001-08:00

This book has got to be one of my favorite purchases ever. I found it at Hip and Humble in bountiful but I know you can get it online at Amazon too. Anyway, it is meant for you to write down random things that your kids say that you want to remember. Here are a couple examples for you...

Taylar and I like to play a game in the car that whenever you see an Audi car you you shout, "Audi" and you get a point if you said it first. Well we were playing this one day and all the girls in the car where kinda playing along....when all of a sudden Jessey thinks she sees one and yells, "Inny". She's thinking of the belly buttons...outy and inny! We all laughed and laughed.

Here's another one.....

Morgan thought that Relief Society was called Security. So at church she says to me, "Mom, are you going to Security now?"

Here's one more that I hesitate to write, but keep in mind it was from an innocent child....

We were in the car again with the Meyer family going to lunch. To pass the time we played a fast paced game called the candy bar game. Everyone has a candy bar name and if your name is said you have to quickly say someone else's name so you don't get out. And this is all done to a quick beat with your hands slapping your legs and then clapping. Anyway, someone called out Bailey's candy bar name and she was so caught up in the game she quickly called out, "Reeses Penis" (instead of reeses pieces) We all paused for a second... and then BUSTED up laughing. For a second she didn't even know what she said. The funny part was there were two older boys in the car who she loves to death. It was so funny! My girls kept quoting Bailey over and over until I had to tell them, "Okay, Okay that's enough." (keep in mind we have no brothers in this family so anything to do with..."that " is very funny to them).

I love having these memories written down so we can laugh together as a family. Which we do often! Now go get one for your family or make your own.....but don't wait.... start writing this stuff down. ITS PRICELESS!!

Do you remember this...

2011-02-27T10:37:00.000-08:00

I love taking time and looking through our photos of years passed. It's fun to see how we have changed and grown up. It's also fun to see the crazy things we've done. This next post is no exception!!! I still can't believe I did this to Jessey! I'm so glad it turned out in a positive...It could have been a disaster!

Here we have a current picture of Jessey on her birthday. But rewind almost 2 1/2 years and this is what happened....

I had the idea of how fun and exciting it would be to cut that big fat pony tail off. Jessey was all for it and without a moment to process the consequences....we did it!

Crazy HuH!!!! It turned out DARLING... thank goodness! But now I look back and think, What was I thinking?? (Oh and Yes, we donated her hair. She was very proud of that.)

I think this video sums it all up for me :)

2011-02-20T18:41:00.001-08:00

I'm Back....

2011-02-20T12:19:00.000-08:00

Well I have had some time to think about what I do (as far as blogging) and how I have shared it with all of you. Most of you are my family and close friends whom I trust and appreciate! But having my blog not private, I have opened myself and my family up to complete strangers. That is a risky thing to do. We would like to believe that we live in a perfect world where no harm will come to us....but we don't, and for that comes the risks we take!

I recently had some hurtful things said to me anonymously about my blog and who I was as a person. I was immediately filled with anger and wanted to say horrible things back to him or her. But with time I realized that would only make things worse and I would be setting an example to my kids of how NOT to handle criticism. At one time or another we have all had something said to us that made us feel we are of no worth and that we should give up. I believe those are the times when we can use those hurtful words for fuel to become our best selves yet!!

Therefore, I am back! I will continue to blog about my life as a mother, wife and most importantly a daughter of God! I know who I am and I know where I came from. I also know where I want to go when this life is over and its not going to be hanging around a bunch of angry, mean, and bitter people!!!

SMASH video

2011-02-05T09:11:00.000-08:00

Happiness found from the internet....

2011-01-19T17:52:00.000-08:00

Decorating makes me happy.......No wait, finding really cool rooms that are decorated better then I could ever imagine make me Happy!!! Here are some of my happy finds....

I love bunk beds!!! Wouldn't this be so cool to have all four of my girls in one room! Then I would have more rooms for me i.e. craft room, exercise room, make up room, dressing room....

I love this idea for all your children's books! I remember stressing over how to make all my kids books look cohesive and organized and cute!! (Now I have them all shoved in a closet.)

This craft room just makes me happy! (maybe it's the big bright windows) My favorite thing is the giant sized bulletin board!

Wouldn't your kids love this....a whole wall painted with chalkboard paint! I really like the sconces and vinyl lettering too. I promised Morgan I was going to do this for her!

Recap of 2010...

2011-01-07T09:23:00.000-08:00

Well it's taken me a long time to gather these photos for a "quick" recap of 2010. The problem is that I am not computer savvy and we have two Mac's that have two different sets of photos. So some of the pictures below are really small and can't be enlarged. One of my goals this year is to take some Mac classes and organize all my photos!!!! Anyway, lets get started!

Morgan turns turns 10 :)

I try to make healthy eating look appealing! (Didn't work....they went right for the oreos)

Going to a Jazz game, on the front row and watching Kyle Korver!

I finally talk Michael into having his back surgery....which was a success!

Morgan broke her pinkie toe and having a cast put on....(her choice) and then relaxing in the hot tub!

Taylar and I going to the Michael Buble concert.....which we LOVED!!!

A surprise trip to San Diego for the kids!

Jessey's first time to DisneyLand. (Hopefully her last, Michael and I are not Disney park lovers)

An awesome scuba diving trip to Fiji!

Bailey finally gets to enter the "soccer" world!!!

Cocoa our cat had her first and last litter of kitties! (4 to be exact)

Going to Rainbow Bridge for the first time!

Camping in Flaming Gorge with cousins! (We went again that year with a bunch of friends but I couldn't get the pictures to work.)

Taylar becomes a teenager :0

Michael completes his first LOTOJA!!!!!

Jessey turns 7 :)

Skinning my legs doing box jumps!

Bailey turns 9 :)

Taylar and her friend Emily going to their Jr. High Christmas dance.

Spending New Year's Eve with the ones who matter most...my family!! (Michael and Bailey had already passed out and Tay is taking the pic ;))

Now to some of you this may seem like a "Okay" year. But I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world! I love my family and the time I get to spend with them! I am truly blessed!

Breakfast of champions...

2010-12-19T19:59:00.000-08:00

You know when you find something that you love and you want to share it with everybody you know? Well I was introduced to this BetterOats oatmeal cereal by a friend and LOVE it! It's a nice change from the regular oatmeal that I normally eat, and do you want to know my secret ingredient with any oatmeal cereal......

COTTAGE CHEESE!!

Don't knock it tell you try it! It's a breakfast of champions....like myself. (ha ha)

So sad...

2010-12-01T12:39:00.000-08:00

I was looking through our pictures of San Diego the other day and Bailey comes up to me, seeing what I am doing and says, "mom, I'm gonna cry if I look at these pictures any more cause I want to be there right now!" That comment caught everyones attention and they wanted to know what Bailey meant. When she explained it to them they all agreed.

I will never be forgiven by my kids for hesitating on an opportunity to spend a week in SD this past month. I have a wonderful friend who will sell me her time share to SD at random times. She is never sure when they will pop up.... so when they do we have to act fast! Well, I didn't act fast enough this last time and somebody else got it before us. So sad......

below are some pics from years past.....our most favorite time to go to SD is with all the cousins on the Dunn side.

My wish list....

2010-11-23T21:31:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,

I have been a very good girl this year. I hardly complain when my husband is off riding his bike (for hours), or going on "work" trips (golfing) and especially during the winter months when he is gone snowmobiling!! I happily stay home and take care of the kids like a good wife. I do all the cooking, cleaning, laundry and other things ;) What I am trying to say is, I think this is the year for a AUDI! I've done my homework and I want the 2011 Audi Q5 in black with the big sunroof.

I have enclosed some pictures so you know exactly which one I want.

P.S. I've always had a thing for older men in a Santa suit ;)

Love,

Karra Dunn

P.S.S. I also want a juicer. Thank you so much!

Ouch!

2010-11-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I go to bountiful twice a week for a workout with my trainer...(her name is Kathy Gunther, she is sooo awesome and she owns Crossfit 22 in bntfl. I had to throw that in) Anyway we were doing a killer workout which involved "box jumps". I am always afraid of not jumping high enough and skinning my shin.....which is exactly what happened! It really didn't hurt that much but I think I had a lot of adrenaline running through me at the time! Kathy, of course felt awful but it wasn't her fault, it was my lack of concentration that did it!! Lesson learned!!! This picture is day one of the accident, if it looks worse later on I'll be sure to take pictures and blog about it! :)

Happy Halloween and Jessey's birthday...

2010-11-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

October was a crazy month for us! Luckily we made it through some how :) We had a lot of fun this year with Halloween and Jessey's birthday! Here are a few pictures to re-cap the tender moments!

Morning of Jessey's birthday

finally Jess gets a DS of her own and look who's taken over.....

Jessey wanted to go to Color Me Mine in Ogden for her birthday. It was a blast!!

Cocoa helped with the annual pumpkin gutting and carving fun!

Bailey, Morgan and I were testing out the fun toys we gave out to the trick or treaters!

Conference Weekend....

2010-10-29T08:24:00.001-07:00

I am really getting behind on my posts... Here we go anyway :)

I look forward to General Conference every 6 months, it's a great time to be with your family, listen to our beloved prophet and have good food!!! This time of year with Halloween around the corner we made caramel apples. As the kids get older they really want to get more involved with cooking and baking (which is good for me because I don't always love to do those things). We had so much fun making these little beauties....but most of all we had fun EATING them!

Below is a favorite sunday breakfast for my family. (just so you know I usually buy the pre-cooked bacon, cinnamon rolls from a tube....Oh ya and orange juice already made!) But this time with it being Conference sunday I made waffles (from a box) and cooked the bacon myself! I really went "all out". Look how happy they are! :)

Parenting.....

2010-10-11T13:32:00.000-07:00

I was really touched by this video clip that the Church put out recently on parenting....I hope you take a minute to watch it, it really hit close to home for me as I am sure it will with you. :)

2010-10-06T19:04:00.000-07:00

I can't resist posting this video.....Jessey had the camcorder one day and wanted to film our kitty, Cocoa. It's so funny what she says about Cocoa, she has no idea what she is saying....just watch ;)

Btw I copied this blog idea from my daughter, Morgan. So go check her out at "With a hint of mint" and leave her a comment! It would make her day!!!

Four eyes....

2010-10-01T16:26:00.000-07:00

My cute little Morgi is growing up....one of the signs is needing glasses!

She got these about a month ago and she is in love with them, thank goodness because glasses are not cheap :) I think she looks darling, as usual!

Jessey's cheer clinic

2010-09-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

"Weber"...clap clap....."Warriors" I think that is the only cheer Jessey remembered from her cheer clinic at Weber High! But who really cares when she looks that cute! (I'm her mother I can say that :)) This post is a little late but still worth it. Jessey had such a great time doing the clinic with her friends. I stayed and watched some of the practices and it was pretty funny! She always makes her way to the front of the crowd so she is right by the cheerleaders and she sometimes knocks down a kid or two trying to get her moves right!

We missed Tesha that night, but still had a lot of fun with the Pack's

Gracie Pack, Jessey Dunn, and Lexxy Sa. So cute! And yes, my kids are always the shortest of their friends!!!!

LOTOJA....

2010-09-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

HE DID IT!! Can you believe it? Michael rode his bike for 206 miles, 12 hours, or 720 minutes. (Whatever sounds most impressive to you) There was five guys total that rode the whole thing (michael included) and they stayed together throughout the day. Michael thought for sure he would be the weak link because he didn't train as long as the rest of the group (back surgery, work, vacations) but with all the wonderful hills/canyons that surround us in the Valley he worked very hard to get in as much as he could while he could and in return it made him a very strong competitor! He also had an amazing brother-in-law and friend who weren't about to let him fail.

We are all sooooo proud of you Michael, Congratulations!!!!!

Michael and Jay after the race....Their team name is, "Green Gecko Racing" and they put the jersey's together themselves. I think they look pretty dang cool!

Below is all five members of the team plus someone from a relay team. From left to right is Cody Hunter, Clayton Stucki, relay guy, Kevin, Jay Meyer, and Micheal

And last but not least....Jay and his cute family, Rebecca, Conner and Taylor. We love you guys and thank you Jay for encouraging Michael to do this!

Happy Birthday Taylar....

2010-09-02T14:06:00.000-07:00

Where does the time go??? I officially now have a teenager. AHHHHH..... Can anyone guess what she wanted to do on her birthday.....go shopping! I had no problem with that so Taylar and I headed to Gateway for a day of mother daughter R and R. It was a blast and this should be 13 year old tradition with the rest of my girls.

For Taylar's birthday cake she chose ice cream sundae's.....Believe or not but my kids have never had one of these. They all had so much fun and we ate every last drop!

Happy Birthday Taylar, I love you very much and I am so proud to be your mother!!

First day of school...

2010-09-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year when we pretend to be sad to send our children off to school for 7 hours a day 5 days a week. :) I know I sound like a mean mom, but I'm just being honest....it's time to party!!!! Here are some pictures of my precious little treasures on their first day of school!

"Have a good day, I love you! Now hurry and go catch the bus!!"

Our last day of summer fun

2010-08-25T21:31:00.000-07:00

Every year my good friend Jamie (sorry jamie I didn't get pic of you that day) invites us to go swimming at her in-laws pool! We tried all summer long to plan this event but some how got too busy! (you all know how that happens every summer) Well we finally planned our day of fun and it was literally on the last day of summer before school starts. (And Taylar's birthday, I'll do a post on that later) Here are some pictures from that fun day!! Thanks Jamie :)

the next couple of pictures are some sweet dives into the floaty tube!

"Okay, everyone jump on the count of three. One, two, three....."

Jamie was pretty confident that Luke and Lulu would be left standing after that jump ;)

Lauren may not get in the water very much but she finds a way to cool off!

"Peace Out".......until next year!

Random Catch-up.....

2010-08-08T14:30:00.001-07:00

This is a new approach I am taking to bring you all up to speed about.....well......just random things that have gone on in the Dunn home.

First of all, most of you may know that the Jazz's HOTTEST player has left us for another team. I am not sure how I will be able to endure another Jazz game without some "eye candy"!

Moving on.....below is a picture of Michael coming home after having back surgery. (He still looks a little drugged) Btw, his back is doing a lot better and he is a lot more careful these days.

Cocoa our kitty, had kitties of her own. Jessey fell asleep next to them one afternoon.

They are kinda ugly in this picture but you should see them now....they are soooo cute!

Bailey's life long dream to play on a comp soccer team has finally come true. They are known as the Valley Vipers.

GO VIPERS!!!!

My lovely sister Sadie had her 4th baby in June. She is a wonderful mother.....someday I hope to be like her :)

The girls hit JACK POT at Fat Cats. It was quite a site, we were all screaming and laughing!

This last picture is a pet peeve that I have with my kids. They go into the pantry and get some gum or a band aid (which is fine) but they leave their wrappers! It drives me crazy, how hard is it to throw them away?

Flaming Gorge....

2010-08-01T16:02:00.001-07:00

Flaming Gorge is starting to become one of our favorite vacation spots. We recently returned with sunburned faces and full tummies. (nothing beats camping food!) This year we went with Michael's side of the family although half of them were missing. It was such a great time hanging out doing crafts, telling stories around the fire, boating, boating and did I mention boating! Below are some memorable moments from our trip :)

Here are the three pre-teen cousins!! Ya, that means trouble, just look at Taylar's expression!

These two may not be pre-teens but DON'T underestimate them :) (Especially the one with blue eyes)

Below is Bailey cliff jumping against her mothers will!!

And now we have Michael jumping off the rope swing against his wife's will!!!

It's time for crafts! This year they painted their own t-shirt.

These two may look innocent but don't be deceived.....together they have the power to take me down!

When we go to the Gorge we usually stay at Sheep Creek....here is a view of our setup.

You may not realize how hard it is to get everyone together for a family photo, But I won this battle!!

2010-07-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

As I was "blog hoppin" the other day I came across this wonderful blog post made just for me! (not really but it sure seemed like it) The blog is called V and Co. and I loved the great advise it gave for getting organized. I don't know why this is such a struggle for me but it is. After reading this cute blog I felt so inspired and I wanted to share it with you, I hope it inspires you too :)

2010-07-14T21:42:00.000-07:00

Well I took the advice of my 12 (almost 13) year old daughter and started reading this book called, "The Hunger Games." I had no idea how addictive this book can be.....But, now I know! I am almost done with the second book called, "Catching Fire" and I am dying!!!! How is this going to end???? Will Katniss survive???? What about Peeta and Gale and Finnick etc. etc etc. There is nothing I hate more than a unfinished ending! I guess I will have to wait until the third book comes out which is August 24.....(Taylar's birthday) Until then I will be worried about all those "hungry" people trying to survive.

Lake Powell 2010

2010-07-02T19:04:00.000-07:00

Well it's that time of year when we head to Lake Powell with some really great friends. This year did not disappoint! It was filled with sunshine, good food, boating, and awesome friends and family! We would like to thank the Nelson family, the Whitaker family and the Gold family...you guys treat us so good and a we love you. Thank you :)

Fiji

2010-06-15T21:04:00.000-07:00

Bula! That means Hello in fijian. Michael and I were very fortunate to have this opportunity to go scuba diving on an island off of Fiji called Taveuni! It was very beautiful and the weather couldn't have been more perfect. The local Fijians were so good to us and helped make this trip such a memorable one!

we hiked to some waterfalls and this is the view from the top.

Micheal and I having one last kiss before we said goodbye....(I had to force him to kiss me!)

I know what your thinking...we look so awesome! We are coming back from a day of scuba diving. And below we are on a hike!

When I first saw this plane I about died!!! This was the plane we took from Nandi, Fiji to Taveuni. It was soooo small and old, and LOUD! Somehow we survived.

The Fijian's that worked at the hotel where we stayed sang us a welcome song and a goodbye song. It was so awesome to see!

Below is a picture of when we FINALLY made it! They had fresh flowers in our room everyday :)

Here is one of the waterfalls we hiked to. Michael and I went swimming in there. It felt so good because it was SOOOO hot! Below is a picture of a bat. Just outside our room was this big tree filled with bats!! Gross!

I tried to put together a couple video clips of our trip...I hope it works out for you!

Good Luck

2010-05-14T08:06:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to give a shout out to all you dedicated runners! Tomorrow is the Ogden Marathon and I can't wait to SIT at the bottom of my driveway and watch all the trained athletes run by. We will be cheering for you as you burn all those calories and if you need to throw your jacket, sweater, or whatever, we'll be happy to hang on to them for you....unless it fits me of course! Good Luck everyone.......LIVESTRONG ;)

A little joke...

2010-05-10T22:10:00.000-07:00

Some days Jessey and I have too much time on our hands......

Music :)

2010-05-03T14:19:00.000-07:00

I have to laugh because I changed all the songs on my playlist and it drives my girls CRAZY...(especially Morgan)! I was in the mood for something old but good! You know that bring back a memory or two. One of these days I should do a playlist of all the songs that reminds me of past boyfriends, believe me it wouldn't be a very long playlist!!! So for now I hope you are enjoying the classics of good (mostly country) music!

Btw, if you think I have forgotten a oldie but goodie that you like, let me know I might add it!

Disneyland...

2010-04-30T16:21:00.000-07:00

Well I think these are the last of our San Diego trip pictures. We were able to spend one day in Disneyland which turned out to be a beautiful day. The mad rush of spring break was gone and we were able to go on all of the rides as many times as we liked with minimal waiting! Now the kids can say we have all gone to Disneyland.....because Michael and I both agree we don't need to go back :).

Good bye DL thanks for the memories....

2010-04-22T12:38:00.000-07:00

Here is a cute clip of when we surprised the girls with the news that we are going to San Diego! Morgan's face is so funny to me because she immediately assumes that the "important message" is about a new chore chart or something along those lines!

2010-04-19T06:42:00.000-07:00

Here are some more San Diego pictures....

My girls are making the moves on these boys with their soccer skills.

We made friends with this really nice family that was from Lindon and they let us join in on a soccer game on the beach! The girls LOVED it!!!!

I want everyone to know (especially the Dunn side of the family) I got in the water and boogie boarded! This is not something I normally do, but for the sake of my kids.....I did it!

2010-04-11T16:26:00.000-07:00

So here are some pictures from our first day at the beach.

The girls had me spray them with suntan oil so they can be like their mom!

As you can see Michael loves to get his picture taken :)

We had the opportunity to go to Elder VanLeer's ward.....thanks to his mother. He is currently serving in the San Diego California mission. We are so fortunate to be friends with the VanLeer family....they are a great example to us.

Greetings from San Diego.....

2010-04-10T08:31:00.000-07:00

Michael and I decided to surprise the girls with a trip to San Diego. I packed up everyones bags and packed up the car, when they got home from school we told them to come sit down on the couch because we needed to "talk" about something very important! Immediately Morgan's smiley face turned to defensive mode, as if she was guilty of something! I told all the girls that we are all ready and packed to drive to San Diego right now!! So hurry and use the bathroom so we can leave. They screamed and laughed at each other... it was so cute! (I have it all on film but I haven't figured out how to download it yet)

I hope to have some pictures for you soon!

Michael Buble concert

2010-04-02T09:33:00.001-07:00

Taylar and I were able to go to Michael Buble's concert the other day and we are both hooked!!!! We missed the first half because of traffic but once we were in......it was LOVE! We had soooo much fun, he was amazing, and funny :) My hubby was supposed to come with me but he had a business trip that same night.... hhhmmmmm? Personal he would of been bored, but not Taylar. She was so much fun, we both screamed and laughed and had a great night! All my songs on my playlist are some of the songs he sang that night.......enjoy :)

Crazy Hair day.....

2010-04-01T16:15:00.000-07:00

Jessey's kindergarden class earned a "crazy hair day" at school. They have been looking forward to this for a while (at least Jessey has). So Jess wanted to follow in her big sisters footsteps and do the same hairdo as she did..... basically you turn your head upside down and rat that hair as best you can and then hairspray it to death! Then the magic happens, you flip that head back up and see your master piece! And then you laugh and laugh and laugh as we did. For a added touch we sprinkled some glitter all around to give it that special something!

I told jess to go upstairs and take of picture of herself on the computer because we were running late that morning. Later on I checked to see if she took some good shots and .......I see this distorted one that made me laugh so hard! I love this kid :)

Name that kid....

2010-03-14T21:12:00.000-07:00

Okay you smarty pants....can you guess who's who below? I'll give you a hint... they're my kids. This might be easy for most of you. The first person to get them all right will get a plate of homemade cookies.

My experiment....

2010-03-08T13:09:00.000-08:00

I've been trying to add more fruits and veggies into my snacking habits. So one day while I was shopping at my favorite local Valley Market ;) I stocked up on all kinds of different and colorful produce. When I came home I thought I would make a beautiful display of natures goodness and see if my kids would want to partake of it.....Well, sadly they come home and said something like, "why do you have all this healthy stuff? Where are the oreo's?" My little experiment didn't work out as I hoped it would, but I keep trying.....

I'm itching for a change....

2010-02-24T18:29:00.000-08:00

I've got a itch that I can't get.....I want someone to repaint my main great room/kitchen area, but I can't seem to convince Michael that it won't be as expensive as he thinks it will. So my question to you out there is this...What do you think it will cost to have all of yellow/golden walls repainted? Seriously, I need to know if I have a case here or not, because if I do I want it done sooooo badly!!!!! (This color has haunted me from day one!)

2010-02-22T14:07:00.000-08:00

Is it summer yet??????

The Bachelor.....

2010-02-16T20:47:00.000-08:00

Okay you Bachelor fans out there....I know you exist, I just want to let the world know how HAPPY I am to see cry baby, pot stirrer, my hair is always messy...Ali... GONE! I laughed so hard when I saw her fall to the floor after she left Jakes room. She was torn between keeping her job or staying on the show. Oh my heck, could she be any more dramatic? Sorry if I have upset you that wanted her to stay.....(Tesha)...but the world seems like a better place with her gone from my monday night Bachelor obsession!!!!

Happy Valentines Day...

2010-02-14T09:14:00.000-08:00

Can you read my secret message? I'm trying to get all the letters of the alphabet so I can spell different words and frame them. I'm sure you have seen this before....I LOVE you all, Happy Valentine's Day :)

Turquoise....my new favorite color!

2010-02-09T22:15:00.000-08:00

I am in love with this new designer blog I have come across....House of Turquoise. Here is just a sampling of all the great pictures she has to share. As you scroll through these you can see that she has a common theme or color....Turquoise. I love it and now have a new favorite color.

Re-gifting??

2010-02-09T13:18:00.000-08:00

I came across this photo the other day and it made me laugh because here we have Taylar and Morgan in matching nightgowns with a pretty see-through robe. And Bailey is wearing my "bridal shower" nightgown (which happens to be see-through also).

I remember Bailey being so sad because she didn't have a pretty nightgown like her sisters. So I gave her one of mine and look at the smile on her face......she is as happy as can be....now she feels like she is a part of the group.

More design idea's.....

2010-02-03T19:40:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love this pool? Someday I hope I can convince Michael that we NEED one! (Ya right) But until then I can dream can't I?

I love these picture collages.....

Here is another kitchen I love

When we were building our house I tried to talk Michael into one these built in beds for one of the bedrooms. I think they are so cute....he just didn't see my vision. But I'm telling you next time (if there is a next time) he will!!!!

A Quick Recap of 2009

2010-02-02T09:54:00.000-08:00

I have wanted to do a 2009 recap for sometime and I finally finished it.... bear with me because it is kinda long. We started out the year on a sad note with the death of Bailey's beloved hermit crab. I think he lived to be one week old. If you don't know by now Bailey has a very tender heart and can kinda be DRAMATIC! Good bye Hermmy. :(

Morgan's Birthday with all her cousins around to help her blow out the candles.

Michael and I were invited by the Plummer's to go to a Jazz Game on the FRONT row on the floor! It doesn't get any better than that!

Michael finally went to a live Nascar race! He is hooked!!!

Easter morning. This is the end of matchy matchy.......maybe ;)

St. George Tri. Probably Michael's last one here.....it is soooo windy and they cancel the swim everytime!

My very first Half Marathon!!!!! And my sister, Sadie's first full Marathon!! Whew whoo!!

Jessey's first tooth to come out!!

Michael broke down and got the kids a trampoline....(still no broken bones from it)

Lake Powell and Father's Day!!!

Taylar's cut foot in Lake Powell!! Six stitches :(

Taylar's first girls camp

My last girls camp :( .....and no I am not the center of attention!!

Taylar FINALY gets her ear's pierced!!

Flaming George with some awesome friends!

Taylar's birthday and first day of Jr. high!!!

That's me sad because everyone is gone to school!!!

My second half marathon with my friend Madi, in Logan. And probably my last. I have worn out my knee! (What a wimp)

SAN DIEGO!!!!! We love it!!!!

Watching Bailey kick butt in soccer!!! That poor girl in the orange doesn't know who she's dealing with :)

Watching Taylar kick butt in soccer too. (Even if she is the smallest one on the field!)

Nachoooooooooo!! Michael being the best Nacho Libre ever!

Carving pumpkins as a fam! Good times :)

Jessey turns 6! Watch out!

Halloween (Taylar's last time to dress up)

Cocoa becomes a part of our family :)

Bailey gets baptized! We are so proud of her :)

New Year's Eve with the family....playing games, watching movies and lighting off fireworks...and I'm eating! What a surprise :)

And last but not least a beautiful sunset from our front porch over looking our new driveway and landscaping.... We are so blessed!

2010-01-28T19:31:00.000-08:00

I love interior design....It's something that I have always wanted to do. But I have a lot to learn. Someday I want to go back to college and get my degree in design. Lately I have been hooked on this show called Sarah's House. It on every saturday on the Fine Living Network channel. She bought an old ugly house and is renovating/decorating it room by room all on a modest budget. I LOVE her idea's and final results, she is so good at what she does. So below are some of her pictures of a house she is working on now....

This is the entry...I love the stairs and the color scheme.

Here is a girls bedroom in pink....it is so pretty and yet it's not screaming LITTLE GIRL.

This is and extra homework/kids lounge. If you could only see what it looked like before. She is a amazing!!!

...again I love the color scheme!!

Okay these next few pictures are some I found randomly on other blogs. This one below caught my eye because of the framed chalkboard with a quote by Theodore Roosevelt. I don't know if you can read it or not but it's a good one :)

I love this mud room with all the black chalkboards and the black cabinetry! So clever!

If we ever build again, I like this idea for a pantry....double doors with the frosted glass!

And last but not least I plan on living in a similar place like this someday. An open room that opens to a covered balcony over looking the ocean!!!! Someday!

Jessey's Tooth

2010-01-23T09:32:00.001-08:00

In all my years of tooth pulling I have never seen a more ugly, stubborn tooth! Some of you may remember this tooth every time you tried to have a conversation with Jessey. Well we finally had to take her to the dentist and have them do it because she was NOT going to let anyone tug and pull at her tooth anymore. As you scroll down and look at these pictures (sorry they are so blurry) you will see how flippin big that tooth was. I am so glad to see Jessey's beautiful smile without that thing hangn' down. :)

Mr. Sugar....

2010-01-20T20:23:00.000-08:00

Okay so "Mr. Sugar" and I have come to an agreement. He can stick around only if he promises not to be bossy or controlling.

It was so weird, he was hiding out in my fridge waiting for the right opportunity to come say hi. His timing was perfect because he new that I was lonely, and Mr. Protein and Mr. Veggie just weren't keeping me happy. You know when you find that special someone there is no point in trying to cut them completely out of your life. You try to work things out and and get along. So we are doing just that. So far it's working out pretty good and I must admit we have a lot of catching up to do if you know what I mean...;)

There was one condition though.....the only way he can come around for a quicky (sorry I had to say that) was if I could still go see Mr. Spin and Mr. Bodypump. He said that would be okay and that I have to promise NEVER to do that again. We are both happy again.

Beware.....

2010-01-15T12:57:00.000-08:00

I have made a goal to go without sugar and carbs for 3 months. (Just shoot me now!) I have a friend who's a trainer in Phoenix. She says to eat every 2 hours a protein and a veggie and 2 fruits a day. So 6 meals total...... I am on day 5 and have been VERY good, but I am getting VERY cranky not having any sugar! There is one good side to this, I can have one cheat day a week. That means I can eat ANYTHING I want, as much as I want. She also says I have to strength train 3-5 times a week. Soooooo, like I said I am on day 5 of all this and we shall see if I can follow through and reach my goal! (once I have reached my goal I can add complex carbs in sparingly. And by that time I won't crave sugars.) We shall see!

In the meantime watch out for this scary, crazy women!

To Spin Or Not To Spin.....

2010-01-10T06:59:00.000-08:00

I have slowly become addicted to spin classes at Gold's gym. I don't know another cardio workout that burns so many calories, doesn't have any complicated moves, and doesn't make my knee hurt!

I want you to close your eyes and imagine your body in so much pain, begging you to stop, sweat dripping off your nose, and then someone yelling at you to "add another gear"! Then as the music starts building you find an inner strength that you didn't know you had, and you conquer that mountain you've been climbing.

I have added one of those songs on my play list to give you the full effect! I LOVE it when they play this song and the goal is to push a little harder than the last time you were there.

I'll see you at spin!!?

Finally.....after 5 years.

2010-01-08T09:58:00.000-08:00

My girls have begged every winter since we have moved to Huntsville......"Can we go sledding on Trappers Loop?" My first response was, "Are you Crazy?" But I have since learned that it really is the best hill in the Valley and it's fairly safe! So I teamed up with my sister Sadie and her family and went for it! The kids had a blast and want to go again, and again, and again.....

Morgan's ears were popping and hurting so I kindly sat out with her!

New Year's Eve...

2010-01-05T09:11:00.001-08:00

We had such a wonderful New Year's Eve just by staying home and playing as a family. We started off the night with plenty of junk food and then played guitar hero. Taylar is by far the champion on this game and Michael is right behind her. As for the rest of us.....well we are good at eating junk food! Below are some pics from that memorable night.....

Jessey and Morgan got out ALL their Webkinz and lined them up. (we have way too many)

Bailey playing her DSi

Michael is behind us on the couch taking a catnap while we are playing Mario Cart. (btw, I'm still much better at eating junk food than playing Wii games!)

And Jessey was off playing dress up with a build a bear robe and something yellow and whatever else she could find.

We ended our night with some good 'ol fireworks! Happy New Year everybody!

Where does the time go?

2009-12-30T12:42:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I have blogged and I know you have missed me......right? Well, instead of trying to catch up I am going to jump right into it!

I am going to take a different approach of our Christmas fun and just focus on Michael and his family. This year Michael's dad, Richard, had a wonderful idea for a family tradition. He gave each member of his kids (Michael and his siblings) an old classic movie. One's that have had great impact on him and who he is today! Some of these movies represent a personal characteristic, or moral standard that is so easily forgotten and lost in today's society! Some of them are just fun and innocent. Whatever the reason we can enjoy these long time classics and not worry about the language, violence or immorality that most movies have today!

The plan with these movies is to watch them as a couple and then trade with someone else that has done the same. That way everyone gets a turn watching them all, and next year he will surprise us with 5 more. (one for each of his kids again.) So let the fun begin...... Thanks Richard ;)

How to do......

2009-12-06T18:44:00.000-08:00

Morgan has come up with this very useful instructional video on how to learn a backbend. Pay close attention because this will come in handy someday! Oh and Taylar is doing the filming, which is also as good as the backbend! :)

Copy Cat.....

2009-11-27T13:03:00.000-08:00

My favorite source for 'copy catn' is Pottery Barn. I love their ideas for every season, especially Christmas time. Here are a few of my favorites.....

Bailey's Baptism

2009-11-24T12:46:00.000-08:00

What a day this will be to remember! It all started with a letter in the mail that said our power will be off from 9 to 1pm for some work they were doing in the canyon. So Michael planned ahead and got our generator up and running so we could have power all that morning to clean and get ready. (Without power at our house we have no water!) Bailey's baptism was planned for 3pm. I thought that would give the power company plenty of time to do what they needed to do. Well, I was wrong. Two o'clock rolls around and no power, then 2:30....I was beginning to panic because Michael's family and my family were traveling from Bountiful to be at the church at 3. Finally at 3 o'clock or a little before 3 the power turned on and the Bishop brick went to fill the font (which takes an hour and a half!) At that point we tried to talk Bailey into getting baptized in the hot tub....how cool is that? She would not go for that!!!! She wanted to be baptized where Taylar and Morgan were baptized. So at 4 o'clock we headed to the church and performed a very special ceremony for Bailey! She is now a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints! It was perfect...I am so proud of her and her choice! I love you Bailey :)

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2009-11-20T08:45:00.000-08:00

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

This is a great little message for this wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday.....I hope you enjoy it :)

Meet Cocoa....

2009-11-14T19:59:00.000-08:00

Somehow we talk Michael into letting the girls get a baby kitten. Our neighbors down the road just had a litter and was giving them away for free. We thought as long as she stays outside what's the harm right? Well little does Michael know that when he's at work those girls sneak that kitty in the house and eewww and aahhh over her. You have to admit though she is sooo cute!

A Diamond in the rough.....

2009-11-09T11:52:00.000-08:00

I wanted to give a little shout out to my wonderful husband. He has been so supportive and helpful with me! I don't want to make him sound like he never is that way but lately he has kicked it up a couple notches. I can't help but think that all those years (13 1/2 to be exact) have finally paid off! Patients and perseverance is my secret....I'm thinking of writing a book on how to find that Diamond in the rough in your husband. Ha ha just kidding! Seriously though, I wanted to say, I love you honey....Thank you for putting up with me!

I need to have my eyes closed.....but I have to watch my back with this one :)

Grandma Hansen's Halloween party...

2009-11-02T17:57:00.000-08:00

It was that time of year for Grandma Hansen's Halloween Party and she does not disappoint. I love to see all of my nieces and nephews all dressed up. Don't they look cute. (Sadly, Taylar is not there because she got to go the Salt Lake Real soccer game that night.)

These two are ready to save the world!

Nachooooooo...

2009-10-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, get ready to see some pretty hilarious pictures. The Booth's had their annual halloween party the other night and it was so much fun! (Thanks Kelli) I don't know how I was able to talk Michael into his costume, but he was by far the best looking Nacho I have ever seen!!!! He was such a good sport especially because he is not the type to draw attention to himself. We had a great night and look forward to next year......(I don't know how we'll ever top this?)

Below is Kid Rock and Pamela Anderson

Then we have Warren Jeffs and one of his happy wives

Next is a glimpse into the future for the Martin's

And how can anyone forget about Jon and Kate plus 8.

Now we have Bob the warden and his/her prisoner....she's excited about that.

Chad and Kelli are a soccer pro's ....Kelli's the one that ripped off her shirt after a big game a while back. Sorry I forgot her name.

Next is John Travolta and he has found himself a "Gold digger"

No more tears!

2009-10-20T10:24:00.000-07:00

Taylar has found a way to cut onions without crying! Goggles!!! Genius I know! (after all she does take after her mother!) So all of you out there saying, "no way" try it, it really works!

Pumpkin carving.....

2009-10-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun the other day carving pumpkins as a family. We haven't done this for the last 3 or 4 years because of the mess it makes, so I bit my tongue and went for it! Everyone had a great time, including Michael. He is actually pretty good at it too. I was helping Morgan carve hers and kinda screwed up on the eyes and mouth so next year she is having her dad help her. Over all they turned out pretty dang good!

In Love....

2009-10-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

I have found the kitchen of my dreams. Don't you LOVE it! If we ever get the chance to build again this will be my inspiration!

2009-10-10T10:19:00.000-07:00

I added this, "Spiritual Thoughts to Ponder" link to the right of my posts. If you haven't noticed it yet you should check it out. The topics change automatically every week or so and I have to say that I love them. Its always good to have a reminder of what's really more important in life and help re-prioritize.

Jessey.....

2009-10-05T10:23:00.000-07:00

Our little "chunky monkey" is going to have a birthday this month. I think out of all my girls Jessey has changed the most as she has gotten older. She was by far the fattest baby I had, you'd think she was breast feed by looking at her cheeks, but no! In fact I had to buy the most expensive formula for her because of her reflux problem! I hate to think about all the money we could have saved if only I could have nursed her longer. Looking back at her pictures makes me kinda sad knowing that she is the last one. I am also reminded of the labor pains I had with her....Lets just say, those memories are enough to cure me of baby hunger.

Jessey looks huge next to her cousin Anna. Below I can't tell who's cheeks are bigger Michael's or Jessey's. (Just kidding honey)

This is Jessey last year at her birthday when we chopped off her hair and now look how long it's gotten!

Announcement.....

2009-10-04T12:35:00.000-07:00

Taylar has started her own blog! She has seen the light and wants to follow in her mothers footsteps. After much frustration and despair we have decided on a name (that has not already been taken). It came to the both of us while we were testing out a new recipe for breakfast. It is called...... With a hint of Lime. Go check her out and give her a noogie from me! Oh yes, before I forget, we have recruited Taylar's friend, Emily, into doing a blog also. Check her out also at...... Emily Rain. ENJOY! (just keep in mind this is a work in progress with both of them!!!!!)

So Cute!

2009-09-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

Is this not the cutest picture of a baby? I came across this the other day while I was "blog hoppin" and had to post it on mine. For some reason this picture makes me smile and want to ponder :) (I must give credit where credit is due, this picture was taken by a very talented person who I don't know. But her website is, tracyraver.com)

Why?

2009-09-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

Why do they have to grow up? Somedays I wish for them to be older! But, when I look back at these old pictures........ I wish they would stop! I think about what was going on in our lives when these pictures were taken, and I remember the good and the bad. You know what I am saying? Life will always have good and bad days, but your kids won't stop getting older and therefore, ENJOY the moment!

The pic above is Taylar and Morgan caught playing in the toilet paper and Taylar looks totally quilty! The one below is a classic, Morgan eating waffles with syrup! To this day that is her favorite breakfast. (She eats at the counter now ;))

The picture above is when Bailey was about a month old and she was the same size as her sisters baby dolls. She was tiny! The picture down below is my naughty Taylar playing in the mud! She LOVED it, but those kind of opportunities were far and few between!!!!

And last but not least is little "Jessem baby" asleep in Michael's arms as he works on the computer! It wasn't very often that Michael held a baby and put her to sleep! That was my job, and I miss it! (Not enough to get pregnant again! I just wanted to make that clear)

San Diego 2009

2009-09-21T21:00:00.000-07:00

Well get ready for a long post...... We just got back from a trip to San Diego with all of Michael's side of the family. It was soooooooooooooooo much fun! We do this every two years and look forward to it everytime! This year we kept our agenda wide open, which meant tons of beach and boogie boardin time! Michael did take Taylar and Bailey to a baseball game and then Michael and I were able to do baptisms for the dead with Taylar. (It was her very first time). When it was time to go home all of the kids begged us to stay one more week! If only....but, I must admit, it is nice to be home again!

Bailey took this pic of the beautiful sunset

Michael is helping Morgan head out to catch some BIG waves. She did great the first time, but then when made her do it again, she came in crying because she had been thrown around like a rag doll. It scared her pretty good!

Bailey decided to try and surf....she did awesome.

On the last day we were there Michael's brother, JD rented a surf board. Michael is getting ready to catch a good one.

It is tradition to go to Sea Port Village at least one night before we go home. It is a great place to eat and do some shopping! My two favorite things!! Below is a pic of Michael's cute parents.

Then we have Michael's sister Angie on the left with her family and then his little brother JD on the right with his wife and son.

What are the odds....

2009-09-14T19:55:00.000-07:00

We did a little Park City shoppin' on Labor Day and guess what we saw......two adorable pugs! Everyday the girls tell Michael that we are going to get two pugs before Christmas, and everyday Michael tells them, "not a chance in______ you know what!" So while we were shopping you could imagine how excited these girls were to see two girl pugs, with bows! Unfortunately Michael wasn't with us to enjoy this moment, so I pulled out the camera to capture it for him :) Just look how happy they all are!

My sweet hubby....

2009-09-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

Michael was so good to me the other day and bought me a new road bike and all the "gear" to go with it. He has been hearing me complain about my knee when I run, so one day we went and looked at some bikes and tried a couple of them out and then left. I really didn't think twice about it. Well a couple days later he says, "kids be good while I take mom to run errands." We all know that Michael hates to run errands so that was my first clue. The whole way down to the store he would not tell me where we were going, but as we got closer I knew what he was up too! I felt like Julia Roberts in Pretty Women, you know when she is on her shopping spree and Richard Gere just nods yes or no on the different outfits. It was awesome!

Below Michael and I are outfitted and ready to go for my first ride.....I loved it! Thank you so much Michael!

Happy Late Birthday....

2009-09-04T08:36:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone? My little Tay Tay is growing up! We celebrated her birthday a couple weeks ago and I am now getting it on the blog! (What kind of mother am I?) Every couple of years Taylar's bday is also on the first day of school....which happened to be the case this year! So you can imagine it was a very busy day from sun up to sun down! Taylar is now 12 years old and started Jr high. She is also a beehive in the Young Women's. Life is great for her and she loves every minute! As I was looking through the photos on my computer, I came across this one.....It was her first day of kindergarten.....she is so excited and ready to take on the world! Sadly, to me, that is the exact same look on her face when I dropped her off at the Jr. High on her fisrt day of school. That look says, "I'm ready to grow up now mom, and I won't need you on this one." (just a side note, Jessey, as you know started kindergarten and on her photo she has the same look on her face!)

Poor Taylar didn't get her birthday cake on her bday....She specifically asked for a scotcharoo cake and for one reason or another I got too busy and forgot! Scotcharoos are kinda like rice crispy treats but with peanut butter! Way better! So she wanted it in the form of a cake.....well, I did the best I could and it turned out looking like a pile of *#!0*?@! .....poop! We all ate it anyway :)

Happy Birthday Taylar......... stop growing up!!!

The first day of School

2009-09-01T07:51:00.001-07:00

Well this post is a week late because Jessey didn't start school till this week. But we are all now busy in the mornings getting ready to catch the bus to school. Taylar's birthday was on the first day of school and with all the hussle and bussle that was going on that morning, I forgot to take her picture. So this is a picture of her after her first day! (I will do a post on her bday soon) Doesn't she look like a Jr. High student! She continues to grow up before my eyes!

Morgan and Bailey are waiting eagerly for the bus....don't they look cute!

And last but not least, Jessey started kindergarden this year. She couldn't wait! I can't believe she is old enough.....I'm sorry but now I know why mothers baby their "baby"! Its hard to let go!

And then there is me.....left all alone (for at least half the day) with nobody to take care of! :(

Top of Utah 1/2....

2009-08-30T20:03:00.000-07:00

Well after I finished the Ogden half, I was on such a high that I signed up for the Top of Utah half....after completing the second half, I have come back to reality! I can not do stairs very well and it hurts to sit on the potty, not to mention my right knee is starting to give up on me! (I know there are a couple of full marathoners that think I am a whimp......well, their right!) So I have decided I am going to stick with leisurely running .....and then maybe sign up for another race later....(with Tesha, right?!) Or anyone one else that can talk me into it!

These are the only pics I have from the race, and they were taken after! Madi, in the white top, spilled her gatorade on herself while running and drinking at the same time! (I made that same mistake on my first half! She'll learn..... ha ha) Luckily her friend Brooke in the white capris had a tide pen! Even though I didn't actually run with them, I had a blast rooming with them! Thanks for putting up with an old women!!!

Goodbye to summer!

2009-08-25T21:32:00.000-07:00

Here is a little recap of the summer of '09.....Sunshine, water, food, and family! What more could you ask for?

Taylar's ears....

2009-08-23T07:03:00.000-07:00

Well the day has finally come when Taylar can get her ear's pierced! She has waited years for this day, and we were able to be a part of this mile stone in her life. (At least that is how she feels). It was fun for her to have her friends be a part of this also!

Before.....

After!

2009-08-22T21:31:00.001-07:00

This is my latest weakness!!!!! These precious little treats are packed with goodness, and for whatever reason, I can't stop with just one or two..... This reminds me of a friends blog where she mentions a bunch of things that she will and will not have in her world that she will create someday....So in my world these scrumptious, moist cakesters will be a food staple!!!!!

Flaming Gorge....

2009-08-17T19:45:00.000-07:00

Michael and his snowmobiling buddies have been wanting to take to the families to Flaming Gorge all summer. I think they picked the weekend with the most rain and cold temps. (not on purpose) We ended up having so much fun and the kids did NOT want to come home!

Isn't that a so pretty!

Let me give you some advise.....If you go camping, invite the Pack's! Justin and Tesha bring more than enough food and they cook it for you too!!!

On one of the cold, rainy days we went and toured the Gorge....It was beautiful!

The first night was warm enough to watch a movie outside!

This was one of our nice rainy days.

Justin and Michael managed to talk Tesha and I into doing an evening ski. I have to say, it was Awesome! And Tesha got up on the first try......the last time she did this was 4 years ago! I think that is pretty good, it usually takes me 2 or 3 tries to get up.

This was our dinner one night.....jk!

We are having another fabulous meal by Justin and Tesha! Btw, notice the nice sunshine....This happened to be a Sunday, the day we were leaving to go home!! Go figure!

Here's the gang....(we are missing Paul and his family) Thanks guys for a great weekend!

Girls Camp

2009-08-10T13:22:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to post about girls camp for a while but just haven't been home long enough to do it! So I finally found a minute......Our theme this year was "Princess, Daughter of a Heavenly King." Our Laurels planned and carried out most of it, and they did a fantastic job! We wanted all the girls to know and feel how special they truly are! On the last night we had them get all dressed up with hair and makeup and had a dinner fit for a King! I know your thinking this is girls camp.....not a spa camp! But, here in our ward we do it with style and comfort!!! I know there were some girls that would rather camp under the stars and not even look in a mirror, but if I'm a counselor in Young Women I will do all I can to avoid that! Ha ha just kidding, kinda :) This camp was especially exceptional because Taylar, my oldest was able to go! I loved every minute being there with her!

One of the days at G.C. we went boating....It was a blast! What makes it even more fun is when all the leaders get involved and go out on the torpedo too! (Sorry I don't have a picture to prove it)

With any calling you have to be flexible and spontaneous!!! So on day 3 we had to rearrange our plans and ended up at a cemetery playing in the ditch! Ha ha, well sorta, Sister Wood, one of the leaders does this as a family tradition! They take off their shoes and straddle the canal and try to jump up and touch your feet together without falling in! It was so funny to see all the girls get up the guts to try it! Taylar barely was able to straddle the thing.....she has such short legs.
We have the best group of Young Women around!! They are all so wonderful! They make this calling the best ever!!!
I absolutely LOVE my calling and who I serve with!!!! These women are such great examples to me! I will be sad when we will have to move on and get different callings! In this picture above we are missing two other lady's that had to get home early for one reason or another! They were missed. Thank you everyone!