My Boys and Me

A NEW TRADITION

2009-12-06T11:46:00.000-08:00

My family is big on traditions. Just recently they started a new one. Each year we go and stay in Salt Lake for the weekend. We eat at Spaghetti Factory, go back to the Hotel and swim, watch movies in someones room and eat a bunch of snacks, go Christmas shopping the next day, and see Santa vs. the Snowman in 3D. At least thats what we did this year. It was so much fun. It snowed on us all day Saturday at Gateway to it made it really seem Christmasy (if that's even a word). Thanks Mom and Dad for this fun, new tradition.

THANKSGIVING 2009

2009-11-28T14:56:00.000-08:00

This year we had Thanksgiving at my parents house. It is always so fun to get together as a family. We had a great dinner, talked and laughed a lot, and then all the girls went to New Moon again. It was our second time and I loved it just as much. It was a great day. Hope everyone else had a great Thanksgiving.

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE

2009-11-28T14:43:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite show in the world. I have watched it faithfully ever since the very first season. We went and saw it live when they came to Salt Lake. It was soooooooooooo good. Me, my Mom, and sister made a day of it. We went shopping, ate at Cheesecake factory, and the went to the show. We had so much fun. I know there are alot of dance pictures but the dancing was just so good.

HALLOWEEN

2009-11-28T14:40:00.000-08:00

My boys were little Jack Sparrows this year. They look so cute if I do say so myself.

DISNEYLAND

2009-11-28T14:21:00.000-08:00

In September we went to Disneyland. It was the boys first time. They loved it. But how can you not. We went with my whole family and it was so much fun.

LONG TIME NO BLOG

2009-11-28T14:00:00.000-08:00

I know it's been awhile so this is a really long post to catch up on what we have been up to.

First off the boys turned three back in August. I honestly don't know where the time has gone. They are growing up way to fast but are such a joy to my life. I don't know what I would do without my two little buddies.

We celebrated their birthday by having a swimming party at my parents pool.

ROLO COOKIES

2009-03-30T17:52:00.000-07:00

I had a request to post this recipe. So here you go Jamie. These cookies are one of my favorites. I make them way more than I should. I got the recipe from my cousin Amy. Hope you all enjoy!!

Mix in one bowl
3 cups flour
3/4 cup cocoa
1 tsp baking soda

Mix in one bowl
1 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup butter
2 tsp vanilla
2 eggs

1 Bag of Rolo's

Combine flour mixture and wet mixture. Mix together. Wrap just enough cookie dough around one rolo. Roll in sugar and bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes.

ICE FISHIN

2009-02-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

Today was the boys first time going ice fishing. We talked about going earlier in the week and that's all the boys talked about everyday. They couldn't wait to go ice fishin with Grandpa Reese. We went up to Mantua and couldn't have asked for a better day. The sun was shining and we actually got hot. Which was good because as my Dad said "the fishing was good but the catching was slow". It was really slow we didn't catch a thing. We still had fun. Especially Jeremy. Just kidding he hates ice fishing he was bored as crap. But at least he still went. The boys loved running around all over the ice, and dropping things in the fishing holes. Thanks for the great day Dad we still have to go one more time.

WICKED UPDATE

2008-12-03T22:24:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have been asking me when Wicked tickets go on sale this post is for you. Tickets will go on sale Friday December 12th. There are two ways to buy them. Your best bet is to go to the Capitol Theatre. They go on sale there from 7:00-9:00. I know that is early and you will need to get there to stand in line even earlier. I'm sure people will be camped out the night before. But I promise it is worth it. If you can't do that then you can go online at 10:00 to ArtTix.org or call 355-ARTS. But if you do it these other two ways the tickets don't go on sale until 10:00. This is honestly one of the best plays I have ever seen so it is worth it to get up early to go stand in line. It starts on April 8th and goes through May 3rd of 2009. So go, go, go get your tickets. If anyone has any questions just call me.

TWILIGHT REVIEW

2008-11-23T10:26:00.001-08:00

Friday night came. The wait was finally over. We had our tickets and we all had butterflies in our stomachs. Was it as good as the book? No, but what movie ever is. Did I love it? YES I DID!!! I thought they did a great job. I wasn't sure about any of the people playing the characters, but they all pulled it off and did a great job. Especially Edward. Going into the theatre I still was wishing they had picked Zack Efron. Not anymore. They picked the perfect person to play Edward. I will probably see it again and again and then buy it when it comes out. Go see it or call me and I will go see it with you.

AUSTRALIA

2008-11-13T12:56:00.001-08:00

I am a huge movie fan. I love movies. If I like a movie I can watch it over and over again. Each year when the holiday season arrives, so do all the good movies. This is one that I have been anticipating as much if not more than Twilight. Can't wait, can't wait, can't wait!!!!!!! Does anyone else look forward to all the good movies that come out during the holidays?

RUN FOR AMBER

2008-11-03T20:37:00.000-08:00

There is a woman in our neighborhood who has terminal cancer. She is only 30 years old and has five kids. She has been through so much this last year and has never once complained. She is a wonderful example to me and to many others. I can't even fathom how she keeps her faith through it all. And though she doesn't know it. I truly love and admire her for being so strong and keeping her faith through everything.

Saturday they had a fund raiser to raise money for their family. I ran in the 5k. It was my first. I am not much of a runner. All though I would like to be. It turned out to be a perfect day. The weather could not have been better. And their was an unbelievable turn out. Which goes to show just how wonderful a person Amber is. Her story is truly amazing. It will break your heart but you will be inspired. Her blog is http://amberchase.weebly.com/our-blog.html. If you have a chance you should really go and read her story from the beginning. Thanks Amber for your wonderful example!!!!!!

Me and the pinkest girl there!

And we're...

Off

YEAH!!!! We made it!!!!

Me and my running partner. Thanks for baring with me Krystal!!!

PUMPKIN WALK

2008-10-27T22:13:00.000-07:00

Tonight we went with my family to the Pumpkin Walk in Logan. This year we actually made it before they started taking things down. That happened to us last year. Jer and I invited some friends to go with us. But, unbeknownst to us we were a day late and they were taking it all down. If you have never been before you should go. It amazes me every year how creative people can get with pumpkins. And you get a free Pepperidge Farm cookie. You can't beat that!!! Afterwards we got to go eat at Fredricos again. We met my Uncle Brent. He lives in California and we don't get to see him very often. So it was great to see him for a little bit. Here are some pics from the night.

HOGLE ZOO

2008-10-17T21:22:00.001-07:00

My sister and I went to the zoo today. It was the boys first time of many I'm sure. We picked a great day to go too. It was UEA, deer hunting, and many people with Friday's off. It was so crowded we had to park almost a mile away from the actual zoo and walk. There were way to many people for my liking. But we had fun anyway. Ashton and Dalton loved it. Their favorite was the black bear and riding on the train. They love trains. They call them choo choo's. It was fun to see them so excited to ride on one. The pictures from the day aren't the greatest. It was a little hectic and my kids don't like to pose for pictures. But here are a few shots anyway.

Also, we finally got our couch a little while back and we are loving it. It only took a little over two months to get here. Our kids think of it as a trampoline and a jungle gym. Here is a little video of Ashton's new trick that he does all day long. The kid is fearless. I see many trips to the emergency room in our future.

A LITTLE HIKING AND BIKING

2008-09-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

Saturday we went to one of my favorite places on earth. We went to Porcupine Reservoir. It is so pretty especially right now with the leaves changing. Our goal was to go to Rosy's Mine. But with two, two year olds we didn't quite make it. We mountain biked half of the way and then planned to hike the rest. If you have never been to the mine before you should definitely try to go. It's really cool. There is an old cabin that looks like it is going to cave in at any time. You can carve your name in the wood. And then up from that is this old mine. My Dad and I have been all the way to the end of it before. It's really fun!!! A little cold, wet, and dark. But, fun. Also, in the fall the Kokanee Salmon are spawning and it so cool to see all of them. The Kokanee only have a three to four year life span. They have silvery blue scales but in the fall of their final year they turn bright red. They swim up stream and return to where they were born and then they spawn. A few days later they slowly start to die. It was amazing to see some of the places that they had to get through to get back to where they were born. It's amazing they make it. We had a great day and the weather was perfect. We got to eat at Fredricos Pizza afterward. They have the best pizza. But that's just a given because of the flour the use.

This is Porcupine Resevoir...

Here is Jer taking a rest. He started feeling sick.

Here are some of the Kokanee...

Oh how I love the Fall!!!!

HAVE WE REALLY BEEN MARRIED 11 YEARS????

2008-08-21T22:57:00.000-07:00

Yes we have. Holy cow. I don't know why this seems so crazy to me. For those of you who know us, you know our long history together. I fell head over heels in love with Jeremy the first time I saw him. I was 15 and a geeky freshman in High School. He was a gorgeous, popular Junior. He had a locker kiddy corner across the hall from me. I have always been really shy and have never really chased boys much. He was the first and only boy I really ever went after. My Mom was shocked because she had never seen me like this over a boy. I never thought I stood a chance. To this day I still don't know what he sees in me. I have been with him for almost 17 years now (well except for a few breakups, a mission, etc.). We have been through ups, downs, and all arounds. And I am still head over heels in love with him. So thanks Jer for sticking by me through thick and thin. I don't know what I would do without you.

We celebrated by going out to dinner without kids HURRAY!!!! We went to Black Stone in Logan. It is one of my new favorite restaurants. The food was amazing, there was live entertainment, and did I mention no kids. If you haven't ever been there GO THERE!!! It is amazing. Thanks again to Jeremy's parents for watching our kids. We had a great night.

A BUSY WEEK

2008-08-03T00:37:00.000-07:00

We have had a crazy week. So this is going to be a few posts in one. First off....My boys turned two!! Happy Birthday Ashton and Dalton. I can't believe I actually made it to see them turn two. I still remember when the Doctor first told us we were having twins. I was not very happy about it at the time. I honestly didn't know what I was going to do. These last two years have been busy, tiring, crazy, frustrating, fun, sad, happy, exciting, and something new everyday. But even though I experience almost everyone of these things on a daily basis I don't know what I would do without these two little boys in my life. I love them more than they will ever know.

They went from this....

To This.....
Dalton

Ashton

They are both full of energy. They never walk. They are always running. They love the water, jumping and climbing on anything, airplanes, their blankies, and making messes.

Ashton loves balls. He has got a great arm too. We are thinking maybe a quarterback or a pitcher. Ashton is kind of a bully to Dalton and has a temper but he can be the biggest sweetheart too. He is very daring which is good and bad. He is also very friendly. He says hi to everyone.

Dalton is just a big sweetheart. He has got the kindest heart and is always looking out for Ashton. He is very even tempered (most of the time). He is a great sharer. He loves to look at books and play with trucks. Dalton is a little shy and takes awhile to warm up to people.

We had a swimming/pirate party for them on Thursday. Here are some pictures from the party.

The night ended with our annual cake fight. Last year a cake fight was started by my Brother in Law Rex. It was so much fun that we decided to make it a tradition. Every year on the boys birthday we will have a cake fight.
Thanks to all our family and friends that came. We love you all and appreciate your support.

Friday I went to High School Musical. It was nice to have a night out without kids. The play was really cute and super fun. Thanks Mom and Dad for the great night out.

First off dinner at Olive Garden

Then it's off to Capitol Theatre for the play

My adorable neice Maddy who is getting way to grown up

Saturday we had a swimming party with some of our good friends the Small's and Mitton's. We had so much fun. They are all a blast to hang out with. And Krystal and Marcie I love you guys. Thanks for being such great friends!!!

WHILE GRANDMA'S AWAY, GRANDPA CALLS US TO PLAY

2008-07-24T23:12:00.000-07:00

My Mom took my niece Maddy to California. It has been her dream to go to Hollywood. So they left today. My Dad called us to see if we wanted to go fishing. The Mill belongs to a fishing club. This was the first time I had been up there. It was so pretty. And it is my kind of fishing. Catch and release. I hadn't been fishing for a few years so I was really rusty. I forgot how much I really love to fish. I had so much fun and haven't been able to stop thinking about it all night. I would really like to start going at least once a week. I am so grateful for a Dad that taught me to love the outdoors. If I could I would live in the mountains. I just hope my boys love the outdoors as much as I do. I need hiking buddies. Here are some fun pics from our night.

Here is Jer and My Dad getting the poles all ready to go.

My Dad caught the first catch of the night. Of course he is a pro.

Jeremy Fishing.

Me fishing.

Being boys and getting dirty!

You better watch out or Mommy might hook ya!

Grandpa showing us the proper way to fish

Yeah!! I finally caught a fish!

It was a pretty slow night as far as catching fish goes. My Dad said he usually catches about 20 a night. Tonight he caught three, I caught one, and Jer didn't catch any. But that's because he didn't fish a whole lot. Thanks for the great night. Let's do it more often!!

MOTHER AND DAUGHTER NIGHT OUT

2008-07-15T22:14:00.000-07:00

I was able to have a girl's night out with just my Mom. We don't get these kind of days much anymore. It was so much fun and very relaxing. My Mom actually got a Nordstrom pass to go and preview the sale before the sale actually starts. It was so much fun. This is totally the way to do the sale. My Mom called and made an appointment with her favorite sales girl Robyn (who was the funnest, sweetest person). She takes you into the backrooms of the different departments where they have everything set up. You go through all of it and pick out what you want and buy it before the actual sale on Friday. We got first dibs on everything and you didn't have to fight the crowds of people. I totally felt like VIP. I hope we get a pass every year. And then we went to Cheesecake Factory for dinner. Ah.... what a night. My two favorites Nordstrom and Cheesecake Factory. Thanks for the great night out Mom. Your my favorite shopping buddy.

Dulce De Leche Cheesecake is the best!!!!

I'm very happy about all our fun finds.

BEAR LAKE 2008

2008-07-07T19:24:00.000-07:00

We just got back from our annual Bear Lake Reunion. We have been going for 20 plus years now. It has been such a fun tradition that everyone looks forward to all year long. It's a tradition that no one wants to see end. I have a lot of great memories from Bear Lake and some not so great (remember the sweaty guy at the Bear Lake Dance? Yeah, you all had a big laugh at my expence). My boys LOVED IT!!! They loved the fireworks, playing in the sand, and especially loved playing in the water. They are fearless. They kicked and screamed when we made them get out of the water. They are a lot of work but it is so fun to watch them experience things for the first time. Especially since they are so animated. Here are a few pictures from the weekend.

Ashton chilling on the deck with his lollipop.

I just thought this was a cute picture of Dalton. Even if he has a chunk of food on his facae.

Jeremy and I watching the fireworks from our balcony.

Grandpa and the boys after the fireworks.

Grandma and Ashton.

Playing in the sand.

My cute cousin Amy hangin at the beach.

My Aunt Liz.

My Uncle Gary and Cousin Ryan.

My Aunt Becky.

Oh how they loved the water.

Cousin Paceson

Cousin Maddy

Amy and Kylie

Bear Lake Rocks!!!

Fun with the sliding screen door. This kept them laughing and entertaining each other for a long time.

A Bike Ride into Town.

The boys really worked up a thirst.

Thanks Grandpa for this wonderful tradition you started so many years ago. WE LOVE YOU!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY MOM!!!

2008-06-27T13:56:00.001-07:00

This is my wonderful Mother. She is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside. I have never met anyone who doesn't just fall in love with her instantly. She has a unique way of making everyone feel like they are a part of the family. Even if she has just met you. She was always the cool Mom growing up. When I would have sleep overs she would be right there with us talking girl talk. She always had and still does have great advice. My Mom is the only one who can outdo me in shopping. We have closed down the mall several times together. I have always appreciated my Mom and all she has done for me but I don't think fully until I became one myself. I definitely have a greater appreciation for all she has done. Especially now. With the illness I am going through she is the one who has spent countless hours researching, finding doctors, taking me to appointments, listening to me, wiping away my tears, and listening to me some more. I don't know where I would be right now if it wasn't for her. She is also a wonderful Grandma to my boys. She has helped so much. More than she will ever know. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for being my Mom and for not giving up on me(I know I can be difficult sometimes). I love you so much. I hope you have a great birthday.

LOVE THE PLAY, CAN'T WAIT FOR THE MOVIE

2008-06-26T23:50:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to see Mama Mia. I have seen it twice when it was here in Salt Lake. It is one of my favorite plays. It is so fun, high energy, get up out of your seat and dance in the isles kind of play. No really it is. As shy and reserved as I am I couldn't stop myself from getting out of seat and dancing at the end. I love how they are taking plays and turning them into movies. It gives people a better opportunity to see them. I will be there opening night July 18th!!

ALWAYS THE MESSY EATER

2008-06-22T21:26:00.000-07:00

Holy Cow!!! My little Ashton always, without fail gets so messy every time we eat. Does anyone else have this problem? Dalton gets just the usual kind of messy, but Ashton WOW, yeah you can see for yourself. When he eats he holds his hand by his mouth as he is chewing so the food gets gooped all over his hand. Then he likes to rub his hand all over his face and hair. This equals a gigantic mess. And everyone knows how much kids just love to get their faces and hands cleaned. Ashton takes forever to clean because he is always so messy and while you are cleaning him, he is screaming, hitting, and throwing himself back. Meal time is so fun at our house. (These pictures don't even show how bad he really was)

Here is our messy little Ashton.

See, Dalton is just normal messy.

But Ashton...

Oh, by the way we got our new couches. Just kidding. Jeremy said to me last week "Don't you think our couches should be getting here pretty soon?" I said "No it's only been a week." Jeremy said "No it's been longer than that." Then I reminded him of the date that we went in to order them and he realized that it only had been a week. We really didn't think it would be so bad just sitting on the floor. But it is. We both looked at each other and said that it was going to be a long six weeks. So my parents are letting us borrow their huge bean bag until our couches get here. It's a lot better than the floor and our boys love it. Thanks Mom and Dad for coming to the rescue!!!

FUN IN THE SUN

2008-06-19T22:09:00.000-07:00

We had a pool day with Jade, Tyra, my sister Jamie, my Mom, and all the kids. We had so much fun. I love days when you just hang out by the pool and eat junk food all day. Thanks everyone for coming over!!! I can't wait until we do it again. Here are some fun pictures from the day.

I wouldn't let my kids get in the pool until people showed up. So we played with the hose until people came. Here is Ashton watering the flowers.

Ashton and Dalton fighting over the hose. When there are things that we don't have two of there is usually a fight over who is going to get it. Ashton usually wins.

Ashton wanting to get in the pool so badly.

Ashton pouting and not looking at Mommy because I wouldn't let him get in just yet.

Here is Tyra with her new hair style. I love it, love it, love it!!! Tyra you are one HOT MOMMA!!!

I also just need to thank my Mom and Dad for the rest of my life because my Mom called me on Monday and said that they got our tickets for Wicked. Wa Hoo!!! It's official I've got a ticket and I am for sure going. April 28th is the day. I can't wait!! Thank you, thank you, thank you. It will be so fun. We have a group of fourteen or so going. I am buying dinner that night so don't fight me on it.

ONE OF THOSE DAYS! ! !

2008-06-07T21:27:00.000-07:00

This is a long story and most of you probably don't care, but I haven't posted anything in awhile and the day is over and I am still stressed so I need to vent. It all goes back to when we finished our basement....so Jer finally got it finished but we didn't have any money to buy new furniture to put down there. So we got two hand me down couches and that's what we have been using ever since. A little history on the couches. They were my grandma's from the eighties, have been handed down a couple of times,they don't match and the dog slept on one of them. Need I say more?!! They were in bad shape. And you know they were bad if Jeremy who is mister practical approached me with the idea of getting a new couch. Yeah it wasn't my idea it was his. He was embarrassed for anyone to come over and have to sit on them. Needless to say I was shocked but then immediately knew what I wanted to go down there. But he did also. He wanted a sectional that he had seen in a newspaper add. OK here comes a fight. I HATE SECTIONALS!!!! This wasn't what I had in mind at all. But then he reminded me of another problem. The way our basement is designed the couches I wanted won't fit down there. In fact it is a problem getting almost any couch down there. I won't go into all the details because that's another long story in it's own. Well I still wanted to try. So we went to a furniture store and talked to a friend to see if there was anyway we could do it. So she called a friend that works for the company that makes the couches to see if there was anyway we could do it. Nope, there was no way. So I agree to go look at the sectional. I looked at it and didn't mind it. We also went and looked other places at other sectionals. This one was the only one I could stand. So I agree to get this sectional. Jeremy thought for sure this was the answer because it came in two pieces. So it had to fit. We ordered it and they told us it would be four weeks. Well we got a call this week and they said the couch was in and it would be delivered Saturday. So last night Jeremy and I took out the old couches and this morning he took them to the dump. Yeah they weren't even DI worthy so they went straight to the dump. We waited around all day. Finally they showed up. I was getting excited to have something new down there. Most of our furniture in our house is hand me down. Well to make this long story shorter. It didn't fit. In fact it was so tight that when they got to the bottom of the stairs they managed to completely tear up our door frame, and they scratched and made gouges in our brand new door and to top it off one of them had mud on their shoes that got all over our carpet. I am not a happy camper at this point. Oh and did I mention that the store doesn't give refunds. In store credit only. We called Jeremy's parents who gratefully took our kids for a few hours so we could go down there and look through catalogs to find something that would fit. It took us forever because this was the only sectional I could stand and all the other couches that I really like will no way no how fit down there. Well we think we found something that we can live with but it ended up costing more money and it will take at least two months to get here if not longer. Remember when I said that Jeremy took our old couches to the dump....oh crap. We don't have anything to sit on down there for two months or longer. But, just when I am thinking that we at least found something that will fit that we can both live with I find something else out. After we picked the boys up from Jeremy's parents we went and got a yogurt with some of our friends and was telling them about our day. The asked where we got the couch from and we told them. And they said they ordered something from the same place and were told that it would take a couple months. Well it has now been three months and they still don't have it and every time they call down there to talk to them they always say the will call the back and they never do. Great!!! This day just gets better and better. Do you think we will ever end up getting a couch? I will keep you posted.

Our empty basement with the hand me down furniture we have left.

NO PATIENCE

2008-05-16T09:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday when I went to give the boys their bath, Ashton just couldn't wait. I was getting Dalton undressed and Ashton just decided to climb in clothes and all. I started laughing so hard. He didn't even seem to notice that he had his clothes still on.

SUMMER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER (HOPEFULLY)

2008-05-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

With the weather starting to get a little warmer finally, it has made me realize that I have to start seriously thinking about swimsuits. This is the one and only thing I absolutely HATE shopping for!!! It is so hard for me to find one that looks half way descent on me. And they are WAY OVER PRICED!! For some reason the only ones that look somewhat good are the ones that cost a fortune. Truth be told I have been searching for one for the last three months. I mean I have looked everywhere. And I mean everywhere. You name it and I have looked. I have already ordered two and they are being sent back. Your probably wondering why I am stressing about this so much. Well it's because my parents have a swimming pool. So I spend most of my summer in a swimsuit. It's a good thing for cute cover ups but when that has to come off I want to feel comfortable. Does anyone else have this problem or is it just me? Well if you are struggling like me I finally found a few places that have swimsuits that fit great, are very cute, and are very affordable. The first is Layers Clothing. This is the one I like from there. It's only $65 for the whole thing.

The second place is Down East Basics. This is the one I like from there. This one is only $45 for the whole thing.

And the third is Modbe Clothing. This is the one I like from there. This one is $74 for the whole thing.

If you have been struggling like me you should go check these places out. They have lots of styles to choose from. Happy swimsuit hunting!! Now I have to decide which one or two to get. Which one do you guys think I should get???

TWILIGHT MOVIE TRAILER

2008-05-07T11:07:00.001-07:00

This is for my girls Krystal and Marcie. I hope you guys are saving the date. Can't wait to see it!!!!!

WOMEN'S CONFERENCE 2008

2008-05-03T20:55:00.000-07:00

Another year of Women's Conference has come and gone. It has been a tradition (yes another tradition) in our family for at least the last ten years if not longer. We always have so much fun. How can you beat great food, great shopping, girl talk, and most importantly wonderful classes that teach us to be better and strengthen our testimonies. I found that in every class that I went to no matter what the topic was all focused on how important it was to keep our faith through all our trials. This is something I haven't been very good at lately. In having a life long trial and then adding more to that one has pushed me over the edge the last couple of years. Sadly, I have lost a lot of faith and my testimony has not been as strong as it once was. I have been very lost, confused, and have had a lot of questions about things that no one seems to be able to answer. So it's funny that this was the main focus at the Conference this year. It seemed as if everyone was speaking directly to me and answering all my questions. I walked away feeling very spiritually uplifted. I felt as if I wasn't alone for the first time in a very long time. I feel like there just might be hope for me after all. There was a huge surprise in store for everyone there this year. In the first morning session they announced that the speaker for the closing session would be.......President Monson. Yeah, our Prophet. I could not believe it. I have never been in the presence of a Prophet. Words can not describe how awesome this was. It's no secret that I am very emotional and dramatic. So I was proud of myself that I was able to hold it together all the way through his talk. After it was over they asked everyone to stay in their seats until President Monson and his wife walked out. Well, he stood up and then we all stood up. He started walking out and before exiting the building stopped and waved to everyone. Simultaneously thousands of women's arms went up to wave back at him. At that moment I lost it. I felt the spirit so strong and knew without a doubt in my mind that this is the true church and that President Monson is our true and living Prophet.
I know that just because I had some questions answered and had a really spiritual experience my trials are not just going to be taken away. It just doesn't work that way. I need to have a better attitude towards my trials and really try to see them as an opportunity for growth. This is not going to be easy but it's just one of those things in life that I just have to do. And I know that there are going to be days a plenty that I will probably have a bad attitude and want to throw in the towel. So hopefully with a lot of faith, prayer, and love and support from family and friends I can stay on the right path and one day lay some of my trials to rest.

Our Awesome Group!!!

My Mom and I

Our Prophet

Jeremy took time off work to stay home with the boys so I could go. So a big thanks to him. And thanks to my Dad who pays for my Mom and I to go every year. I appreciate it so much. Thanks again Jer and Dad. We had a great time.

Tyra's Baby Shower

2008-04-24T20:57:00.001-07:00

Yesterday Jade, Lindsey, and I threw a baby shower for Tyra. I have to say it is one of the funnest baby showers I have ever been to. Tyra had a great turn out. It was fun to meet some of her neighbors and friends. After everyone left Tyra, Jade and I stayed up talking until 2:00 in the morning (sorry Todd, Richard, and Jeremy). I think we are all really tired today. But it was worth it!! I really needed a night out to just talk girl talk. Thanks guys we really need to do that more often. Can't wait until Monday Tyra to meet our new nephew. We will be thinking about you and hope everything goes well.

Jade and Tyra

Opening the Goods

Lyndsey trying to push the baby out

Some of Tyra's neighbors

The Bischoff Girl's (we missed you Mia and Christina)

HAPPY 85TH BIRTHDAY GRANDMA! ! ! !

2008-04-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

My Grandma turned 85 yesterday. We had a birthday party over at my Aunt Becky's and Uncle Steve's to celebrate. It is always so much fun when we can all get together. It ended up being an indoor barbecue because of this dang weather. The wind was blowing so hard that you didn't even enjoy being outside. And today and tomorrow we could possibly get snow. Is Spring ever going to come? It was still a great party though. Hope you had a great Birthday Grandma!! We Love You!!!

The Whole Gang

Maddy and Kylie

Make a Wish

All the Girls (and two boys)

Grandma and Ashton

OOOOH..Jer and I

Aunt Becky serving up the cake

My cousin Amy and Uncle Steve

Opening presents and reading the funny cards

Grandpa and Ashton

Maddy, Kylie, and Zack

Something WICKED this way come

2008-04-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

YEAH!!!!!! Wicked is coming to Salt Lake City. I am more excited than words can say. I saw it in New York a few years ago and love, love, loved it. It will be here this time next year (April 8 to May 3, 2009). Now I have something to look forward to for a whole year. Can't wait!!!!

A bad outcome!!!

2008-04-07T23:04:00.000-07:00

Ok, so we have been living in our house now for almost eight years. When we moved in all the walls were white. Just so you know I am not a big fan of white walls. It just seems cold and uninviting to me. So when we moved in we said that we would slowly paint all the walls. Well almost eight years later the only room we have painted is the living room. Yeah, if you haven't guessed already it takes us years to achieve our goals. So this weekend we decided to paint the kitchen. When I go to do something I usually have a picture in my mind of what I want it to look like. So I had my paint choices down to two colors. Unfortunately I went with the wrong one. I now look like I live in Tijuana. Just for the record I have nothing against the Mexican motif look. It just wasn't the look I was going for. If you have ever painted a kitchen you know what a pain in the butt it is. It took us all day Saturday. I can't decide if I can live with it or if I am going to change it. Yeah I am very frustrated. Every time I walk into the kitchen I feel like I want a Margarita (virgin of course). If you live around here I may need you to come over so I can get opinions. Anyway, since Jer and I were painting all day Saturday my boys kind of got neglected and were cooped up in the house all day. So Sunday we went up to Eden to my parents condo (my parents were up there for the weekend) so they could get out of the house (and so I wouldn't have to look at the kitchen any more). I love to go up there. I can't even describe how beautiful it is and peaceful. Here are some of the pics from the day.

What is it with little boy's and water? They could have played in this same spot for hours if we would have let them.

Best seat in the house! ! !

I'm not doing anything! !

Check out my new, cool trick.

My Trip to Texas

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

For Valentine's Day Callee got me plane tickets to go visit Mom and Dad in Texas on their mission. Here are some pictures I took. Thank you Callee, and Mom and Dad for having me down there.

Easter 2008

2008-03-24T17:19:00.000-07:00

This year for Easter we went to my parents. My kids still don't really know what's going on. But they were funner than last year. The day before we went on a family hike to Mantua. We used to do it all the time when I was little. It was fun to start the tradition again. We hiked for two hours and not once did my boys ask to be held. In fact if you even tried to pick them up or help them they would scream at you. They just wanted to do it all on their own. I am so happy that they like to hike and explore (since this is one of my favorite things to do). Now I have two little buddies that will go with me. Easter Sunday we had a great dinner and then had a fun egg hunt. Then we watched all the kids open their Easter baskets from Grandma and Grandpa. It was a great Easter weekend. Thanks Mom and Dad!!!

Make a scrapbook - it's easy!

Rub a Dub Dub our first bath in the new tub!!

2008-02-21T16:33:00.001-08:00

Ashton and Dalton had their first bath in the brand new tub today. They actually had fun. Lately they hate their bath time. But they seemed to really like it in the new tub. Change of scenery I guess.

Ashton all relaxed after his bath

We are getting closer!!!

2008-02-19T22:18:00.000-08:00

We have been working on finishing our basement for at least six years now. Yes, I said six years. But we are almost finished. We just had the plumber come today and hook up our shower. So now we are pretty much finished with the bathroom (other than a few touch up's hear and there). Now all we have left to finish is the laundry room.
Here are a few pictures of the final project. It is at a weird angle so I couldn't get very good pictures.

Two of My Favorites

2008-02-11T09:46:00.000-08:00

I don't know if any of you watched the Grammys last night. I only watched parts. But luckily I was watching when Josh Groban and Andrea Bocelli performed. They are two of my very favorite singers. It is a dream of mine to see each of them live in concert someday. I think their performance was amazing. Every time I watch it, it brings tears to my eyes.

In my opinion they are two of the greatest singers of our time.

With All This Snow What's a Person To Do? ? ? ?

2008-02-04T15:13:00.000-08:00

Why go skiing of course. My Dad called me on Friday and said that him and my Mom would watch the boys Saturday if Jer and I wanted to go skiing. So we took them up on their offer and headed to Beaver Mountain. It snowed all day and was a little chilly but the snow was great to ski in. After skiing we met my parents at Fredricos Pizza for dinner. It's one of our favorite places to eat. The pizza is the best (because they use Big J flour). Thanks Mom and Dad for watching the boys for us. We gad a great day.

Here is Jer driving us up to Beaver

The first wipe out of the day

We can barely smile because our faces are so frozen

Good Bye Beaver Mountain...Until next time

IV'E BEEN "BAG TAGGED"

2008-02-01T10:29:00.000-08:00

I got "bag tagged" by Kelly

So here is what you need to do....

1. Show a picture of your bag.
2. Show a picture of ALL the contents of your bag
NO CLEANING OUT FIRST!!!!
3."Bag Tag" five people.

Here is my bag...

And here is what is in my bag....

-My Favortie Lotion
-New York and Company Coupons
-A Notebook
-The Checkbook
-Sun Glasses
-Hairspray
-My Doctors Card
-Gum
-Toothpicks
-Cell Phone
-Comb
-Mirror
-Wallet
-A Pen
-A Nordstrom Receipt
-Three lip glosses
-Ponytail Holders and bobby pins

Nothing too exciting. I kind of have a lot of crap in my bag though.

I am now tagging: Mia, Jade, Tyra, Becky, and Annie.

Not Much Going On

2008-01-28T21:49:00.000-08:00

I just realized tonight that I haven't posted any pictures of our family in almost a month now. Sadly we really haven't even done anything worthwhile to blog about. It seems like it has been snowing nonstop for a month and if it's not snowing it's to cold to go outside. Plus last year both the boys got RSV twice. So we are being careful in hopes that it won't happen again. So far so good (knock on wood). We are trying to get our basement bathroom and laundry room finished. So Jeremy has been working on that some. It will be so nice when this 6 year basement finishing project is done. Here are just some random photos that I took of the boys tonight. They are getting so fun.

Here is my cute little Dalton hamming it up for the camera

Ashton is getting so fast and he can climb up on just about anything and he does this extremely fast. He is my little Bam Bam because is he so fast and so strong. But along with being this way comes ouches. He got this one by falling off the couch (because he was jumping on it) and hitting the sub woofer on his way down. It's a doozy. This is probably our worst wound so far.

Dalton loves our new vanity.

And he loves to be Daddy's little helper.

This was from the other day. I was in the other room and all of a sudden I heard both of the boys screaming bloody murder. So I go running in and this is what I find......

All I could do was laugh. I wanted to take a picture so I leave the room to get the camera and this just makes them cry louder. I'm such a mean Mom. I don't even know how they got themselves in there. They were stuck in there pretty good though.

As for the hair coloring update. It has been two days since I had it colored and I still have hair. This is a plus. As for the color....I'm not so sure yet. At first when I looked at it, it didn't look much different. When I got home to look at it closer it looked quite a bit darker than it did before. And there seems to be a lot of red in it. I don't know. It's going to take me awhile to get used to it. But I don't have any grays anymore. Yeah!!

There Is A First Time For Everything

2008-01-23T22:16:00.000-08:00

O.K. so there are some things that I have never done. Not because I haven't wanted to but I just haven't yet. I have never been to a spa, never had a professional massage, never had a facial, never had a manicure, never had a pedicure, never had any type of plastic surgery (hopefully in the very near future), and I have never colored my hair (this is bad to admit but I have only had two professional haircuts in the last six years). I have had high lights put in a few times but have never colored the whole thing. But with old age comes gray hairs a plenty (thanks Dad, see picture below). My grays are getting out of control to the point that I am finally giving in and having it colored. Needless to say I am scared to death. I know this may sound silly to most of you. But I am. I am afraid it might all fall out or it might turn some new undiscovered horrible color. Please keep your fingers crossed for me. The day of dread is Saturday. Wish me luck!! I will keep you posted.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LITTLE SIS ! ! !

2008-01-21T21:48:00.001-08:00

This is my little sister Jamie. The one who borrowed my clothes without asking, the one I had countless fights with over the car and everything else you can name, basically the one who drove me crazy all growing up. Needless to say we pretty much hated each other 98% of the time. But those days seem so long ago now that we have gotten so close over the last few years. We have been through a lot of good times and bad times together. Since I am the big sister I should be the example, the one to look up too. But I am the one that looks up to her. No matter what problems she may be having she somehow always manages to keep a smile on her face, she is always so friendly with everyone, and she is always and I mean always doing things for others. Almost every time I talk to her she is making dinner for someone, watching the whole neighborhood's kids, or volunteering here there and everywhere. She also has such strong faith even with everything she has been through in life. I have never seen such a devoted Mother. She loves her kids more than anything. She puts every ones needs before her own. I am honestly in aw at all she does. I wish I were more like her. Thanks for always being there for me. I love you! ! Have a Happy Birthday! !

Happy Birthday Dad! ! !

2008-01-16T22:56:00.001-08:00

This is my awesome Dad who I love so much! He is one of the funnest people to be around. My Dad is not one who likes to just sit. He always has to be doing something. If you want an adventure he is definitely the one to call. But no matter how old he gets he still manages to outdo me in any activity whether it be hiking, skiing, or mountain biking. He is a hard one to keep up with. But I love to try. My Dad is the best person to watch a funny movie with. He has the best laugh. It makes you laugh just to hear him laugh. Hearing that laugh helps me on a really bad day. My Dad is also a wonderful Grandpa. You can already tell that my kids love him so much. Whenever they see him they reach out to go to him. And you can see in his face how much he loves them. My poor Dad has two daughters and no sons and therefore has had to sit through many dance recitals, cheerleading competitions, many, many, many, many shopping trips, and mood swings. And has been there and has been supportive through all of it. I am so grateful that he is my Dad. I look forward to many more years of adventures with him. I love you Dad. Hope you have a great Birthday! ! ! ! !

Edward and Bella

2008-01-09T13:46:00.000-08:00

I'm sure most of you know already but those of you who don't and are interested....Robert Pattinson (who played Cedric in Harry Potter) will be playing Edward in the Twilight movie

And Kristen Stewart will be playing Bella

I wasn't so sure about who they picked to play Edward at first because I was always picturing Zack Efron as Edward

Yeah.... I still think he would have been a really, really, really good choice.

But then I found this picture of the two actors for Edward and Bella together and
this Robert guy totally looks the part. He really looks like he could be a vampire(if there were such a thing). I am so excited now. The books have been so awesome I hope the movie is not a let down. But finding the right characters is half the battle and I think they have done good so far. Can't Wait!!!!!

Weight be gone (I hope)

2008-01-08T10:01:00.000-08:00

OK so I just heard about this amazing website. Over this holiday season I kind of went out of control with eating sweets and gained quite a bit of weight. I have been wanting to get it off and start eating healthier but I haven't known what to do. Well today my answer came to me. There is this great website called sparkpeople.com. It is all totally free. You can put in how much weight you want to lose by a certain time. They will set up a menu for you as well as an exercise program. You can set up daily goals as well and it will keep track of all of this for you. You can also join support groups and talk with other members trying to lose weight to keep each other motivated. I joined it today and am totally excited about it. Just thought I would put the word out if you haven't heard about it already. Seriously it is the coolest thing ever it plans out everything for you and if you don't like it you can change it to how you do like it. Even if you don't need to lose weight (I hate you, just kidding) it will help you to maintain a healthy way of eating.

Dance War

2008-01-07T23:18:00.000-08:00

Yeah!!!!! I have been so excited for this show to start. I love all these dancing shows. I especially love it when someone from Utah goes on the show and kicks butt. And this dude (Zack is his name) totally kicks butt. He will be a fun one to watch (he better not get booted next week). Well my Monday nights for the next 5 weeks are booked. Is anyone else watching?

Happy 2008 Everyone

2008-01-02T16:24:00.000-08:00

We hope everyone had a great New Years. We went up to my parents condo in Eden. It is beautiful up there. They have 24 inches of snow. I haven't seen that much snow in years. We actually stayed awake until midnight too (well Jeremy fell asleep for awhile but he woke up to ring in the new year). There was a fireworks show which we could see from the balcony. The next day we attempted sleigh riding. It didn't last very long. It was freezing cold and my kids didn't want to keep there gloves on. My parents kept telling Jeremy and I to go skiing on New Years day and they would watch the kids while we went. I said that it would be funner to stay all together and go sledding. I don't know what I was thinking. It snowed all New Years Eve day and the next day you woke up to not a cloud in the sky. Fresh powder and sunny skies all I could think about that whole day was...I wish I was skiing. We will take you up on that offer another time Mom and Dad ha ha. Since we didn't go skiing we went up to Snow Basin to watch everyone else ski. We thought it would be fun to get a hot chocolate, sit outside and watch the boys play in the snow. That didn't happen. Like I said before it was freezing and there were a bazillion people at Snow Basin. My kids kept running into people and if you would pick them up they would start screaming. Needless to say were weren't there that long. Ah..such is life (with kids). We really did have a great New Years even though our attempted adventures didn't turn out the way we thought. Hope everyone has a great 2008 (hey that rhymes he he).

The Fireworks.

This was our beautiful New Years Day morning. The person in the balloon is very brave to go up in this freezing cold weather. Eden is well known for their hot air balloons. They have a balloon festival every year.

Ashton by his new best friend the bear who is just his size.

This is how Dalton's hair always, always, always, did I say always? Always looks. No matter what I do to keep it down it just pops back up like a rooster tail. I still think he looks cute though.

Here is the faux moose that hangs above the doors as you leave the building to the condo. I prefer this one instead of a dead animal head.

Ashton playing with someone else's ball.

MOM I DON'T WANT TO WEAR ALL THIS CRAP!!! I CAN'T PUT MY ARMS DOWN!!!

Daddy and Dalton sledding.

Grandpa and Ashton sledding.

Dalton's last run.

Finally....warm air.

Just chillin after sledding.

Grandma and Dalton up at Snow Basin.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!!!

Christmas 2007

2007-12-26T10:13:00.000-08:00

This year for Christmas we went to my Aunt Becky and Uncle Steve's house. We had an amazing dinner. There was shrimp cocktail, prime rib, brisket, rolls, salads, potatoes, etc., etc. Everything was so good. My pants fit alot tighter the next day dang it.

This is my Grandma. She broke her hip for the third time a few months back and has been in the nursing home recuperating. She is quite the trooper. We were so glad that she could be there. My Grandma never has been one to miss out on a party.

This is my amazing Grandpa who is so patient, loving, and devoted to my Grandma. He is a wonderful example to me of unconditional love.

Here is my super handsome Dalton in his Christmas outfit (doesn't he look GQ).

Here is my super handsome Ashton. He likes presents just like his Mom.

Jeremy with an arm full.

Dalton being silly.

My sweet little Ashton.

Brotherly love (at least some of the time).

Christmas day we were home all morning and then went to my parents house in the afternoon to exchange gifts and have dinner. We had such a wonderful Christmas. Things were a little crazy this year with little kids that don't really know what is going on and that get tired from the business of the season (they were crying, no screaming in a lot of the pictures). It has been so much fun for me to see the excitement in my children's faces as they are experiencing and seeing things for the first time. They love to look and touch the tree, the don't like to touch the cold snow, they love the Christmas lights, they love to ride in empty boxes, rip up wrapping paper, and eat tape just to name a few. It has brought back the excitement and the magic of the season. We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!!!

Santa's Reindeer in Corinne?

2007-12-26T00:09:00.001-08:00

Saturday we went to Corinne to see Santa's reindeer. It was freezing cold. That's why we all look like Rudolph. My kids were really happy to be there as you can see. It was pretty cool though. It was at someones home. You just walked around their house. They had a lot of different animals and a Christmas village that you could walk around and look at. My kids didn't notice much they just liked stomping around in the snow. It was a fun but cold outing.

Ah....The joys of motherhood

2007-12-20T14:55:00.000-08:00

WARNING...The picture you are about to see is fairly graphic. Look at your own risk!

Today was an eventful day at our house. We had our first poop in the tub (courtesy of Dalton). He started screaming a scream like I had never heard before and I couldn't figure out what was going on. And then I saw it.....the brown floaters(dry heave). Ashton was already out of the tub luckily. So I get Dalton out and he instantly stops screaming. Now that he is away from the brown floaters he is no longer afraid but is curious at the things that he created. He kept looking in the tub at them. And then, oh what joy what fun I get to clean up the poop. Ah good times, good times.

(See even the fish went belly up from this traumatic experience)

Welcome Karson Paul Keller

2007-12-17T11:01:00.001-08:00

Here are some pictures of my new nephew Karson. He was born on December 7th. He is so cute and seems to be a very good baby. I'm jealous that he has more hair than my kids. Congratulations Jamie and Rex!!! We love you.

A Night In Bethlehem

2007-12-01T20:43:00.000-08:00

Tonight was our ward Christmas party. They turned the gym into Bethlehem. We had to bring canned food in exchange for tokens so we could buy our food. We ate on blankets on the floor from tin pie trays. Jeremy was one of the Shepard's in the nativity. Outside they had a manger with real animals. There was a donkey, sheep, goats, and the big hit was the real life camel. It was so cool. Ashton and Dalton loved touching the camel.

Here are our friends the Small family.

Here is Jeremy (the Shepard) trying to get a room at the Inn (The Bethlehem Marriott).

Here is Ben (the Inn Keeper) who wouldn't give us a room.

This is my good friend Jamie Hadfield.

This is another good friend Marcie Mitton who is holding Ashton.

Dalton was a little angel all night can't you tell?

Ashton and Dalton running around.

Kristal, Marcie, Dan, Ben, and Jeremy

Our Christmas Tree

2007-11-29T20:20:00.000-08:00

I was bored tonight so I am just putting up random photos. I like to see what every ones Christmas trees look like. Especially when they are falling over (just kidding Shalyse). So here is a picture of our tree.

Isn't this just the cutest little human candy cane you have ever seen? Ashton loved having the hood over his head. He would go in front of the fireplace, touch the hood on his head and look at his reflection in the fireplace glass. He loves to look at his reflection.

Happy 31st Birthday Callee

2007-11-27T12:10:00.000-08:00

Today is Callee's birthday, She's an awesome wife and mother. I really love her, and admire her for the strength and courage to do things on a daily basis that are a struggle for her. I love you baby, have a great day. And here is a an old picture of Callee being a little goofy. She'll probably kill me for posting this picture

Love,
Jeremy, Ashton & Dalton

Happy Thanksgiving ! ! !

2007-11-21T10:01:00.001-08:00

This Thanksgiving was kind of crazy. Last night Jeremy and I had to take Ashton to the Doctor because he had had a high fever most of the day. He has been a little sick for about a week but yesterday he got really bad. Today Dalton is getting sick. Jer and I are sick my Dad has been sick, my sister has two kids that have been sick for about three months, and to top it off she is ready to have a baby any day now and has been having contractions for the last two days and is also very very very sick. We didn't even know if she would be there. My poor uncle Tracy and his friend Bob who came for Thanksgiving had to go buy Airborne in hopes that they wouldn't get sick. So basically everyone was sick. It was still a great day though.

Here is my Uncle Tracy, his friend Bob, and my super cute niece Madison. They are munching on goodies as we are waiting for dinner.

The Turkey. Yum!

The Table. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the occasional birthday are the only days this room is used along with China.

Here my Uncle is ready to fight all those dirty dishes with his super awesome rubber gloves.

After dinner we all go down to the basement to burn off those extra calories (or at least that's what we like to think). We play Dance Revolution on Xbox. We are a very competitive family so some times this game can get a little out of control. But since my sister is pregnant we didn't let it get out of hand today.

Me and my super cute sister competing. Check out her concentration face. We probably get into this game more than we should.

My Dad's Dance Revolution concentration face.

Here is Ashton enjoying a little game of air hockey.

Grandma and Dalton.

Grandpa and Ashton.

Dalton got a cut on the bottom of his toe and we don't know how he got it. It was a pretty good cut and was bleeding quite a bit so today he got to have his first band aid (I am sure it it just the first of many).

Sometimes in the busy scheme of life I don't think I take time out often enough to really really think of the things that I am truly thankful for. And I think at certain times in our life we are more thankful for things depending on our circumstances at that time. So as I have reflected on this past year the thing that I am truly thankful for is my wonderful family. My Husband who has done nothing but stand by my side through everything and has not given up on me. I am Thankful for his patience. My parents who also have stood by me and have done everything in their power to see that I get well. I am thankful for their love and support. My Uncle Tracy who has spent countless hours talking to doctors, arranging appointments, taking time off work, giving us a place to stay, and so much more. I am just so thankful for his example of unconditional love and service. I am so thankful that he is a part of my life. I love all of you more than words can say.
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!

Our Halloween

2007-10-31T21:54:00.000-07:00

Our Halloween was pretty boring. Ashton and Dalton are still too little to go trick or treating (Jer wouldn't even let them dress up....I just have to give him a hard time). We just hung out and handed out Halloween candy and when we were just about out we bailed. We went to my parents house so they could see the boys in their Halloween pj's (they had to have something if they weren't going to dress up). Grandma and Grandpa Reese had a little treat bag for them that had many fun items. They were very excited. I think their favorite from the bag was a plastic cup that had a straw. Ashton thought he was pretty hot stuff with his cup. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for the Halloween goodies. Hope everyone had a Happy Halloween! ! !
glitter-graphics.com

After years of waiting....It's finally here!!!!!!!!!!

2007-10-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

That's right, Cheesecake Factory is in Salt Lake City. It is by Nordstrom at Fashion Place. My two favorite things right by each other. It opens Thursday November 1st at 5:00. This is my favorite place to eat. Words can not express how excited I am. I am hoping (and begging) Jeremy will take me there this weekend. I am already craving the Dulce De Leche cheesecake! ! !

Pumpkin Carving

2007-10-29T22:03:00.000-07:00

Last night for family night we carved pumpkins with my parents and my sister and her family. We had Jack O Lantern pizza's for dinner in honor of our pumpkin carving. It was a really fun night. I think we did pretty good if I do say so myself. Thanks for letting us borrow your house Ken and Mary Ellen.

THE HISTORY OF HALLOWEEN! ! ! ! !

2007-10-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

I have never been really big into Halloween. I have never even known why we have it. So I did some research to see why we so called celebrate this day. Most of you propably already know but those of you who don't and want to know why this is what I found out......The modern holiday of Halloween has its origins in the ancient Gaelic festival known as Samhain (pronounced SOW-in). The Festival of Samhain is a celebration of the end of the harvest season in Gaelic culture, and is regarded as 'The Celtic New Year'.[2] Traditionally, the festival was a time used by the ancient pagans to take stock of supplies and slaughter livestock for winter stores. The Ancient Gaels believed that on October 31, the boundaries between the worlds of the living and the dead overlapped and the deceased would come back to life and cause havoc such as sickness or damaged crops. The festivals would frequently involve bonfires, where the bones of slaughtered livestock were thrown. Costumes and masks were also worn at the festivals in an attempt to mimic the evil spirits or placate them.[3][4] When the Romans occupied Celtic territory, several Roman traditions were also incorporated into the festivals. Feralia, a day celebrated in late October by the Romans for the passing of the dead as well as a festival which celebrated the Roman Goddess Pomona, the goddess of fruit were incorporated into the celebrations. The symbol of Pomona was an apple, which is a proposed origin for the tradition of bobbing for apples on Halloween.[5]

Sunday Drive

2007-10-21T20:43:00.000-07:00

Fall is my favorite time of the year. I love everything about it. Every year I have wanted to have a family picture taken up in the fall leaves, but never have. So today we went for a drive up to Mantua to have some pictures taken in the fall leaves. But we were about a week or two late. They are all gone for the most part. But it was still pretty up there anyway. (We just had to stay clear of all the deer hunters). Now I will have to wait another year to get my fall family pictures.

Ashton's First Word............Uh Oh!!!!

2007-10-17T12:59:00.000-07:00

Ashton's first word was uh oh. He is a thrill seeker and not afraid of anything. He does before he thinks. We have alot of oopses at our house with him. he almost always has a scratch, bumb, or bruise somewhere. I feel like all I ever say to him is no, and uh oh. And he caught on to the uh oh. We also call him mister chuckels because he laughs over everything. I have never in my life seen anyone who is always so happy. I hope it never changes.

Dalton's First Word............What's That?

2007-10-17T12:15:00.000-07:00

Dalton's first word was What's that. He is very observant and cautious of his surroundings. He observes everything. Right from the minute I get him out of his crib in the morning he starts saying what's that to everything. Especially lights. He loves to look up at lights. He is also quite photogenic. Can't you tell?

Let The Healing Begin

2007-10-09T21:14:00.000-07:00

As many of you know I have been struggling with a disorder most of my life. This last year has been especially hard. I very rarely go anywhere, or talk to anyone because I hate the way I look. I have Body Dysmorphic Disorder. There I have said it. I am a little embarrassed about people knowing, but I also want people to know why I am the way I am. I have been to a lot of doctor's and have been on several medications in the last ten years. But, nobody in Utah really knows how to treat it. There is a clinic in L.A. that specializes in treating this disorder. I have been down there for evaluation, and have decided to move to L.A. for one month for intense therapy. If all goes well I will be going in March. Then I will continue therapy in Utah for at least one to two years. I want all of my family and friends to know how much I appreciate all the love and support they have given me. I couldn't do this without all of you. I love you all so much!

Grandma Bischoff

2007-10-02T22:02:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday after Jeremy went on his helicopter ride, we went and saw Grandma Bischoff. We hadn't seen her since the family reunion. She is the sweetest person in the world. Ashton and Dalton had so much fun. They explored every inch of her house. We Love you Grandma Bischoff.

Jer's First Flight

2007-09-30T13:22:00.001-07:00

This year for Father's Day Ashton, Dalton, and I got Jeremy a gift certificate to ride in a helicopter. But, not only did he get to ride he got to take over the controls and fly it. Here are some pictures from the day. We hope Jeremy had a fun time. We love him tons. He is the best Dad in the world.