a jagged thought

Wow a new year already!?

2011-01-10T20:44:00.000-08:00

In some ways it doesn't feel like it should be a new year yet? In other ways it totally does and I am excited for the new year and the eventual spring that will come. Hoping it shows signs around here much earlier than last years.

So far I have only shoveled the driveway a couple of times.. That's how I get my cardio and peace. Its serene out there in all the white snow that is until the kids realize you are out there and want to come and help or build snow forts and throw snowballs. My kids know they are in big trouble if they dare throw one at me. I tend to get bad migraines otherwise maybe I wouldn't be so grinchy.. Maybe. probably not.

The end of the year was supposed to be filled with family fun but ended up being filled with my car front end getting a bit crunched up followed by the next day Den crashing his motorcycle after a chiropractor visit. Bad back problems then the dreaded stomach flu. Though it was the stomach flu that thwarted our fun filled family reunion trip it kind of was good not to spread germs but Den's back was out of whack and wouldn't have stood a chance on the drive. So we had a boring second week getting over the stomach flu then S got it New Years Eve Day. So that made the decision of what to do that day settled. Tending to a throwing up boy while trying to keep his little brother away and entertained. Den had work which he has most new years. It was supposed to be me going with him being. A first trip without the kids in ages. AGES.. Thwarted by my initial attack of the dreaded bug..
Den got it the end of last week and felt my pain.
K is the only on that it hasn't hit yet and him being super tiny I hope it doesn't.
We got amazing gifts from our amazing family and heard they had an amazing time. I am jealous and sad I missed seeing everyone. But so happy they had a good time. Thanks for mailing the things to us
My Mom and Dad had a great and yummy Christmas eve dinner and all the siblings and cousins were there. My Mom made a super yummy cheese soup in sourdough bread bowls and gave us great gifts and a family stocking filled with things that we typically received as kids growing up. It was wonderful.
Den got sick of S asking to play Pokemon cards and then said he had to learn a game he enjoyed. Chess. S ate it up and begged to play a few times since.
K is nearly 4. I can't believe it.
S had his first piano lessen today and he wished tomorrow was today so he could have a second lesson. This is a trial basis to see if he can stick with practicing.
He is one of only a handful in his class that is a top reader. He devours books.. In fact he told me he wished he could eat them because then he could get the books into his head faster. He is doing really well in all his subjects. He loves video games and is really, really good at them. He loves learning all sorts of things.
I am looking forward to what the new year brings.

Photo recap of most of the year..

2010-09-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

trouble maker

bed hogs

fave family game

friend did a photoshoot kevin snuck in.

someone turned 7 and had 2 cakes.

batmen always

best friend & birthday boy

The Deniro face.. I call it that... He tries not to smile and ends up making this face.

Mom really loves cotton candy

Thanks Dad!

Best Friends

I thought I was the Queen of the house but clearing I am not the princess has overrun my house. She acts like the queen.

hula boy

Kevin turned 3 back in January and this is him singing Happy Birthday to himself. He loves to sing

Mmm Cake

Peek a boo!

Kevin wanted a dirt and worms cake the candles even curved and looked like worms sticking out.. if you want a messy cake I am pretty good at them.

Yay Dad and the boys!

Playing Hide and Seek with Dad

She loves the boys

slacker

2010-09-23T09:18:00.000-07:00

So I've been slacking a bit on the blogging front. It's not on purpose I just sit down look at the screen and then go blank like the blank page in front of me..

So here's a general re-cap of the last year's events thus far.

Denny toured most the year, Sam finished 1st grade, A niece got married, Sam started 2nd grade and we love his teacher and all his buddies are in his class ( I don't know if that's good thing) but he is happy about it.

Kevin started a Pre Pre school.. We love it and love the teacher so much he goes twice a week.

Denny has a different sound position with a different band (more touring) But its exciting but we sure do miss that guy. He is our rock and sounding board

Denny and I reached our 12th anniversary this year.. Amazing.. It doesn't seem like we are old enough.

The school year started with a lot of sickness, exhaustion.

We had a visit of one of Denny's friends and got to take him out to the local fave Mexican eateries.. He is such a nice guy we are happy he got to visit our humble abode. Then we went and saw Pat Benetar courtesy of him.

We had my awesome Mother in Law and Denny's youngest sister Sarah visit from So Cal. We had Kevin blessed by a good friend of the family, picked sweet corn, ate the corn.. Sherry cleaned up the corn to cook. My mom made a yummy dinner for our visit with them. We saw Swan falls, corn fields etc. While Denny was studying for his new job.. He did a great job combining visiting and studying which can be tough.

It was fun to show Sherry and Sarah around it was sad to have them go.. Then Denny left the next day so it was bittersweet and fast visits by all..

We took a summer vacation to So Cal. Denny worked some of it but we got to visit with our good friends, family and have some beach time. Drove Denny's truck from So Cal through Utah to visit family on the way back home. The boys loved seeing the cousins and dinosaur museums, swim party, swimming pools at hotels. Kevin asked if we could buy a hotel room to put in out backyard . we got spoiled having breakfast in our rooms. The trip seemed too short too.
Obviously I need to update more as this is just a mess.

Farm etc...

2009-08-28T13:58:00.000-07:00

Tire swings are the best. Sam and his good friend enjoying the ride
My beautiful friend and son (kev's bestie) It was alot of fun and very nice of our friend to let us invade her farm and backyard she even got out the popsicles for the kids. My friends kids and my kids had a blast there. so fun! She also showed us a kitten which we have since adopted into our family. It's a girl!

farm..

2009-08-28T13:54:00.000-07:00

cow checking out Kev

"HAY"

To the farm!

2009-08-28T13:52:00.000-07:00

Kev and his best fried

skinny cows

The little cows liked the little boys

"you talkin to me"

Going to see Pat Benatar with the sisters!

2009-08-28T13:05:00.000-07:00

Concert etc.

2009-08-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

Sam singing along to the song he knows.

Posing with cardboard joe

Cute cousin (my neice) Sarah posing with cardboard joe

Cute cousin (my neice) posing with cardboard joe.

They didn't have cardboard nick or I wouldve taken a pic with him. Haha.

Sam's 1st arena concert

2009-08-28T13:01:00.000-07:00

Jona's brothers He likes them alot. My sister won tickets for us from the radio station and gave them to Sam and me to go..

cool stage

Nick is so talented

But Joe is Sam's Fave

Cali fun etc.

2009-08-28T12:58:00.000-07:00

S's best Cali friend.

so serious

Brady and Desirae

Sam's other good friend Lily

More bmx and Cali fun

2009-08-28T12:56:00.000-07:00

S got to hang with his cousin. He had a great time. They both like to build with legos!

Bmx continued

2009-08-28T12:54:00.000-07:00

I know I did it the wrong way but anyways here is my with Dad helping him start.

Hooray

July August fun!

2009-08-28T12:53:00.000-07:00

My handsome 1st grader and handsome hubby

Me and Kevin, The stinker didn't want to pose so he will just burn holes into the table with his eyes.

Sam's 1st ride at the bmx track! He did awesome. He is so cute.

Noodles

2009-06-10T19:42:00.000-07:00

My kids like to eat "noodle soup" with chopsticks. This is thanks to my neice who likes to do the same and they learned from her. So I keep chopsticks on hand for said occasions!

Sam loves chinese food anyway. He does a pretty good job of it.

Kevin really tries hard at it and will eat it all very slowly and with the occasional use of his fingers. They also like it in the straw bowls to slurp up the juice, That on the other hand doesn't get finished all the time.

YEA, NOOODLE SOOUUP. YUM!

Sam Graduated Kindergarten!

2009-05-29T10:31:00.000-07:00

The wonderful Mrs. Ryan

We will miss having you as our teacher!

Sam and his friend.

on the way to graduate

Cute puppy and hubby. No it's not ours we just got to play with it.

Excited

2009-04-29T16:51:00.000-07:00

Okay.. As my sister says I am a total nerd.
Because of these I am sure.
This may and summer are looking to be really awesome movies releases.

Come on XMEN
Star trek
the 2nd transformers
and
Christian Bale in "Terminator Salvation"
Oh and my friend's husband is working on one of my fave childrens books
Cloudy with a chance of meatballs!!
I am like the hamster in bolt when he says

" Aweeesommmme"

blues

2009-04-29T16:44:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling them hard again lately. I know I am blessed to have a loving husband who supports me and my children and what I want to do (within reason) he is my sounding board. Kind of ironic i know considering his job. I am his. I hope he feels this way.
I love that he thinks of ways to get me out of my funk. He is wonderful. My boys are wonderful.
I just read about a woman that I have had the luck to have met but she had the funks too and didn't make it. It didn't help hearing about her when I was in mine, with hubs out of town, mom sick,people around me in depressions and my youngest asserting full 2 year old tantrums. It was a hard weekend. My sweet Sam's face smiled at me alot and gave me lots of hugs so that helped me.
But Hubs is back in town, boys being sweet and now I need to figure out what to do to help with income.
I love my family and my friends.
love,
me

Picnic Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-04-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

I am in need of new dresses isn't this beautiful!

Picnic Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

Kindergarten asking what it means to "go green"

2009-04-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

Shoshone Falls, Idaho

2009-04-18T18:52:00.000-07:00

The Niagara of the West.

Today me and Sam went on adventure to Shoshone Falls. This is the time of year they flow this heavy. I even caught the rainbow in this picture. hooray. It was fun. We followed my sister Mollie there with her girls and my neice's friends. It was beautiful!

Easter Sunday

2009-04-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

Guess which one isn't happy? Too much easter candy!

Sam's Big Day out with Mom

2009-03-24T11:52:00.000-07:00

Our trip to legoland!!!

Daddy's present to Kevin

2009-03-05T22:42:00.000-08:00

Kevin got a truck!

Sometimes it gets stuck!

Kevin loves his new truck!

Kevin is a lego master!

This is for Marg.

2009-02-24T09:29:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JC2gIPnUCgw

Thanks for link Tisha. I love this commercial. It makes me laugh.

Yum

2009-02-09T10:33:00.000-08:00

I am craving one of these right now. The frosting is just like homemade frosting...mmm.. It passes Denny's flavor test as well. I just don't want to drive there right now and I don't really need it.. I just like to look at it. mmmm.

Sam's so witty.

2009-02-01T12:53:00.000-08:00

This morning I was catching up on Saturday Night Live. Sam comes in and is watching with me.. I usually jumped through the commercials but some catch Sam's attention.

So I have to rewind to the car commercial.

Sam says "hmm that car looks pretty cool. Huh, Mom?" I say "its okay" Then Sam asks "do you think it has jump jacks?"

If you don't know what jump jacks are then you need to rent and watch speed racer. It's making its rotation on the dvd player quite regularly. I enjoy it alot too. So I don't mind it.

I laughed and laughed and told Sam "no, it doesn't" we laughed together and I said "but that would be cool wouldn't it?" He nodded with his great Sam smile of his and dancing smiling blue eyes and we giggled some more.

Still brings a smile to my face when I think about it!

Drums

2009-01-26T09:51:00.000-08:00

I knew I wanted to get rockband or guitar hero for the wii. But now I need to get it sooner so Sam can stop asking to go to his cousin's house so he can practice the drums.

I tried to help him with kick drum and he told me I was making him lose.

I got 100 percent singing with his drumming he smiled so proudly and walked over and gave me a kiss. I have a very sweet boy. A bit wild and crazy and loud at times. But he is my sweetheart ready for hugs and kisses.

2 Day is the Day

2009-01-21T12:41:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Mr. Kevin

I am so happy you came into our lives 2 years ago. Granted you are pushing major buttons right now. But I fell in love with you instantly and I now go between you are sooo cute and my sweetie to you are driving me crazy.

You are, well you think you are the boss around here. You mimic everyone and even picked up mom's yelling skills. We both need to work on that.

You love kids and want to play and run around but you have so much energy the kids are surprised and look confused at your excitment.

Winter has kept us in alot but every chance you get you try to go out and play.

You can say most anything. Some things are clearer and some need deciphering.

You love to dance and play star wars games and try to sing. You have great rhythm and bob your head and shake your body the instant a song comes on.

I love you Kevin.

Happy 2nd Birthday~~

My Soy-Bean is turning 2!!

2009-01-13T16:53:00.000-08:00

Our boy Kevin is turning 2 in a week from tomorrow. I can't believe it. Sam and I asked what kind of party he wanted and listed some.
1. Cars. He said "cars'
2. Wall-E. Kev said "waaalleee"
3. Speed Racer Kev said "carrss"
4. Elmo? Kev said "elmo"
Sam asked him over and over. So I think its going to be a cross between cars and wall-e because speed racer falls into the catagory of cars apparently! With a "Vrooom, Vroom" thrown in there.

He has been so cute and sweet lately but a bit of a stinker to Sam. But Sam taught him to be that way so what can I say or do but let them know its not alright to yell,hit or scream at each other. Me included in the screaming like a banshee when I get really frustrated. That's a new years thing I need to work on! Staying calm.

Kevin can repeat most things you say to him with a smile and big eyes and occasional giggle.
I call him our Soybean because he is lean and mean. He is tall, but skinny, full of energy and very smart and bright.

This is for Kristin

2009-01-13T07:41:00.000-08:00

As I am writing this. We are texting. I have been sick all weekend with an upset tummy so I have been looking lovely.
D has been so patient with me and boys its been wonderfull to have him in town to help. Besides that he has been hard at work with his work as well.
Thanks Den!

Whirlwind etc...

2008-12-24T08:06:00.000-08:00

So the next morning I woke up early and started making more cookie dough. (because it has to set in the fridge for a bit) My neice Tai was over and sleeping on the couch I don't think she appreciated the 6:30 am noise on a saturday morning. Surprisingly she didn't wake for another hour.

Then I cleaned up the mess from the night before and started to figure out what we were to make for the party that night.

So the day went like this until we went to the party that night at 6pm and my brother's new house. With a few interruptions in cooking/baking. Sam going to a bday party at chuckecheese then home then delivering some goodies to some neighbors we miss the night before. Some still not home to get their goodies! Then home then walked Sam around the block to another neighbors bday party.

Then back at home Den was beginning his creation of tomato,pesto yumminess. I finished up baking up the bacon wrapped jalepenos recipe courtesy of the pioneer woman cooks. Den was very worried about them. So was I at some point. They crisped up to partially burnt, But it had to be done to ensure the bacon was cooked all the way. To my surprise they were still delicious and HOT!

Earlier in the day when I was cutting, scooping out the seeds of the jalepenos my neice was grossed out because she thought it looked like fish guts or something.

They were a hit at the party. My family except for my mom and sis. angie love spicy food. Mollie couldn't have them because she is a vegitarian and pregnant and do in a couple of weeks( hope that answers you liz!) She is having a girl and we are all very excited!

Den's pesto things were a hit as usual. I know his family knows about them because we have brought them to their family functions as well. YUM.

Candice did a great job hosting and it was fun to see the house all decorated and things in their place since the last time I was there she was still unpacking or we were delivering furniture,boxes to her new castle!

We sang christmas songs and ate yummy food and desserts the neices did some solos well one of the neices mainly. It was beautiful and fun. Nice to see Candice's parents as well. They braved the icy, snowy roads coming from out of town.

My mom brought her most delicious Potato Cassarole. I love it! There are usually no onions in her version because my brother like me HATE onions. Well me to a point I don't mind some. My big sis brought some yummy sweet potatoes!

It was fun to be all together with my brothers family and sister's families and my parents. We actually took a pic together first in a long time! Kevin sat perfectly for the pic but the adults were to slow figuring out where to place others so he got back up and wouldn't calm back down. It reminded me of Teresa's wedding where one of the pics I had to put Sam on my shoulders (for a formal wedding pic) to calm him down.

All in all it was fun.

Tonight (Christmas Eve) We get to go the my sister Angie's In- Laws. We pretty much go to it every time we are in town. It's alot of fun.

Merry Christmas Everyone.

Yes Marg we will make some snow angels for you! We have shoveled our driveway so much on both sides are perfect forts to lob snowballs against someone, that is if we had some people here to do that. Sam built a igloo through one of the giant piles with a window with a neighbor boy. Denny hit kevin with a snowball and he turned surprised and then laughed. Kevin Laughed that is. My boys. so crazy.

Whirlwind

2008-12-21T18:03:00.000-08:00

So the last few days have been especially festive. First with Sam's kindergarten party which was sooo fun complete with a pinata and cookie decorating and making christmas cards. Sam has the best teacher. We love her.
Then we decided to make plates of homemade goodies to give to our friends in the neighborhood and the new friends that just moved in. We had a list of 16 families to complete!!!
So Denny decided we should make almond toffee, because I have gotten good at it ( but not as good as Mom, Sherry I am told) My pumpkin bars and a new recipe that Denny thinks I have gotten good at is the cut out cookies. Basically sugar type cookies. But the whole family gets to frost those with powdered sugar frosting. Denny counted out the plates and stratigically placed all the goodies and wrapped them up. we got Kevin's wagon and bundled up ( because a foot or two of snow has fallen lately) And treked out to deliver at 6:30 at night. It was cold and dark and alot of our targets were not at home.

It was alot of fun to see the surprised look but satisyfying that we are spreading our own holiday cheer and Sam yelling "Merry Christmas " as we walk away. It sound abrupt when he yells it but it is meant sincere. So I think!

I love my family!
Oh Denny had to take over making the toffee at some point cuz Kevin woke from a nap and didn't want anyone but me. He did great and wanted to keep doing it. It was nice to have so much help!

xmas party

2008-12-21T11:11:00.000-08:00

HOORAY!

2008-12-17T11:32:00.000-08:00

I got my computer back today after being down for almost 2 months!! It feels so nice to have it back. YEA!

So true

2008-12-12T19:05:00.000-08:00

"Girls are like cell phones...we love to be held and talked to but if you push the wrong button you'll be disconnected." - Anonymous

I came across this quote today while reading a blog I enjoy. Its called pots and pins. its a nice blog. I think it's fitting the way I have been feeling lately.

Feeling better.

2008-12-11T10:20:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry to those who read the "poor me" post. I don't usually like venting like that but it was nice to get it out but of course I took it down because it is too personal and embarrassing to have it left on here.

Happy Holidays

2008-11-27T09:39:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Movin back to Cali?

2008-11-25T15:21:00.000-08:00

So this may come as a shock to some but not to others. Den is claiming we have to move back to California and within the next month or so. I kind of knew but at the same time I didn't want to think of it. Granted I DO miss it. But just like when I moved away from Cali to here I just started to meet some nice, fun friends here.
Plus I will miss Sammy's teacher here she is so great and helped him trasition into kindergarten so well.
This means a downsize of living space by at least 1200 sq. ft. I don't know if that's enough room for Kevin's dancing and newly aquired love of wrestling stances and today's sudden love of tackling his grandmas wall while watching the movie "We are Marshall". I think he is taking after his uncle Jeff with the football thing. That means he will fit in well with Jeff's boys. Sam is more my performer.

So I thought I would post this. It's bittersweet. Or Sweet bitter in some ways. I REALLY love my house.

I am anxious too. Everytime we move like this. This fast that is, the oppisite effect happens. Den gets a job away from us and then I complain. Poor guy.

Just so you know I will miss all my new friends that haven't really had a chance to get to know me and I will be excited to see my cali friends when and if I am back there.

Any thoughts?
This is what I call the winter "sound" slump.
bummer deal.
This also means we will be selling most of our belongings. like the big stuff.

Twilight Etc.

2008-11-07T18:55:00.000-08:00

So my sister and neice gave me their cherished twilight book to read. Before I started I found that spoof and posted it and another blog I follow had a "which twilight charecter are you" quiz.

I took the quiz.

I and I know you all with be shocked was "Bella"

Now that I started to read the book it is very similar to my teen years in how I felt out of place and awkward and misunderstood and alone. I am sure it hit a chord with most people that have read it.

I was friends to all but at the end of the day. I was still alone. I only had one "close" friend growing up and that was not until high school that I met her.

Then when I met Denny and his huge group of friends I was in awe. I couldn't even fathom that sort of friendship and even still today the huge group is bigger with wives and children included and their twice yearly get togethers to meet up. Denny hasn't always participated but they still try to include him and with hopes of him attending.

Its nice to have a great husband that supports us so well and pushes me and the boys to be are best. ( I still resist at times) But I am grateful.

I know I went on a tangent at the end. But it was nice that I met someone like Edward that sends those electric currents an aches when he is near even now 11 years later. He still makes me swoon when he walks in the door and is feisty and argumentative and handsome.

I know I am a dork but you all know that who know me.

Sorry D. for resisting so long to read it. You were right that I would like/love it. But it makes me remember my still awkwardness towards people and my awe that some actually want to be near me. Thank you also D. I miss you and all my friends and family down in so cal.

Happy Anniversary to us!

2008-09-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today we got married ten years ago. Wow, how time flies. I am so happy I met,fell in love and married this man. He is the best person, Dad, Husband, friend that anyone could ever hope for. I am excited to spend the rest of my life with this man. Yes we have had our ups and downs. But I don't think there is anyone in the world that can weather the ups and downs I have and still be here. He pushes me and inspires me to be the best person I can be and can envision and support the person I am.

He is my best friend, my love of my life and the father of the my wonderful children. He has built a great family.

He is amazing, handsome, adventurous, ambitious, trustworthy, talented and the best dad and provider I have met.

Thanks for being with me for these short but long ten years.

Here's to ten more!

Our engagement pic from ten years ago. He looks the same, huh! Handsome/Sexy as always!

I love you Den!

Love,
heather

I am vanilla

2008-09-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

You're Vanilla.
You're as popular and relaxing as vanilla ice cream. You go with the flow, and get along with all sorts of people. You appreciate peace and simplicity, so you sometimes find crowds and loud noises overwhelming. You are a chilled-out, calming influence on the people in your life, and your friends appreciate how supportive and flexible you are.

Has the potential!

2008-09-05T19:01:00.000-07:00

Our spring lawn. Ahh how beautiful it was. I know it has the potential to be beautiful again and maybe a garden or zen garden somewhere or maybe some toys in it with maybe a patio set too.. Ahh someday. Lots of lawn to mow. Den does a great job.

2008-09-05T18:57:00.000-07:00

Yes she is my cute friend. Here let me help you with that drink.

summer recap photos

2008-09-05T18:54:00.000-07:00

Singin

2008-07-25T15:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Sam was singing under his breath and playing with his geotraks trains. I recognized the tune but could not recall fully what it was.

So I asked "Sam what are you singing?"

He replied "how does she know that she loves her"

I said "oh does it go like this" I tried to sing what I thought he was.

He said "no, mom its this way" he proceeded to mumble through some of the middle parts.

I said " do you want to learn to sing" " we have to enunciate your words and we can find lyrics and practice."

He said "yes, Because I want to earn lots of cash, cuz I only have a medium amount."

Ha ha.

He has been singing along with most every theme song and songs on Cd's or radio lately. Just more than usual.

I guess I should stop talking about how things are too expensive and lay off the price of things. But at least he is understanding it and wants to do something about earning it so he can buy stuff that he wants.

2008-07-03T23:16:00.000-07:00

multitasker

2008-07-03T23:15:00.000-07:00

2008-07-03T23:14:00.000-07:00

2008-07-03T23:13:00.000-07:00

2008-07-03T23:12:00.000-07:00

My good friend Michelle

Water

2008-07-03T23:11:00.000-07:00

Water fun

2008-07-03T23:09:00.000-07:00

watcha doin. Kevins thinking.

funfun

2008-07-03T23:07:00.000-07:00

"Let me help you Tabitha"
Tabitha lookin cute and kevin caught in an almost smile pose.
Sweetness
Hello there

Fun.

2008-07-03T23:05:00.000-07:00

Tabitha and Kevin looking at bird books in the hands on childrens are of the birds of prey
The kids walking each other
The nice lady brought out a hawk for the kids to see.
Looking at feathers through a microscope

More fun

2008-07-03T23:02:00.000-07:00

Mia and Sam playing the wii
Mia and Sam 2
Entering the birds of prey. Our good friend Terry and his Daughters Mia and Tabitha plus Sam
Birds of prey, The california condor.

hmm

2008-06-02T09:09:00.000-07:00

Take the Quiz here!

2008-05-31T21:08:00.000-07:00

2008-05-31T21:07:00.000-07:00

2008-05-31T21:05:00.000-07:00

2008-05-31T21:04:00.000-07:00

2008-05-31T21:03:00.000-07:00

2008-05-31T21:02:00.000-07:00

2008-05-31T21:01:00.000-07:00

2008-05-31T21:00:00.000-07:00

Release water(from a Dam that is)

2008-05-31T20:58:00.000-07:00

It got bigger but not in this picture. Big event for people here.

5th birthday cont.

2008-05-22T10:03:00.000-07:00

Sam chose to have flower pots with pound cake, mint ice cream and crushed oreos for the soil. I was supposed to put real flowers in the ones that you see straws coming out of. But I ran out of time. I got the idea from one of my faveorite blogs The Pioneer Woman Cooks. It is an amazing blog and website.
Sam was very happy with the results.

His cousin Ethan enjoyed them! Thanks for coming Ethan!

Sam's 5th Birthday adventure

2008-05-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

Sam loves Indiana Jones right now. More than star wars because he "hunts for treasure".

But there are limited indiana jones party stuff right now. So I got his second favorite Star Wars

Star wars cont.

2008-05-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

So today we went to a somewhat local cupcake store. Since I googled "star wars birthday" and "cupcakes" I found a cupcake shop. How exciting! I have some blogs that I frequent that have mentioned cupcakes. I was so happy to finally find one here. We went there and they have a great array of cupcakes. They said they could do planets and stars for special order. I just have to decide whether I want to do them myself or pay for them that would look much better.

So a few hours later I am looking at msn homepage and there is an article about yummy desserts around the nation and this place was mentioned. Pretty cool!

I don't know what we will do it is still all up in the air. I don't know why I stress about it so much. I know just a regular cake or cupcake would do but I want it to be special and something he would remember.

I had an E.T. cake and a strawberry shortcake cake when I was little that my amazing aunt made. It made an imact on me. Why not for Sam?

1 month away

2008-04-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

And Sam will be 5. It's so hard to believe. 5! He told me he wants a darth vader, spongebob squarepants, hot wheels party. Hmm I wonder how I will do that. Then he told me he want a boba fett cake. Then he changed his mind to wanting a darth maul cake. CRAZY!

I think I am going to do cupcakes. Maybe mix them up with a little of all of those.. or maybe NO theme for the cakes. Just cake or cupcakes. Anyone have any thoughts or ideas they would like to share?

Outings with Daddy

2008-04-21T11:24:00.001-07:00

Sam getting his hair trimmed. We love our hair stylist. She is going to have a baby soon! Sam loves to have his hair washed by her.
Kevin likes to make a mess of the hair salon!
Kevin loves to sing. If you ask him to sing he will go.. "ahhhhh" He is really meant to be in our big family of entertainers. ha ha

Costco shopping err well eating

2008-04-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

Kevin wanting to be big
Sam taken by surprise
Kevin looks a bit crazy but it was very cute of Den and Sam

2008-04-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

Hail Hale Ok I don't know the spelling
Sam is loving star wars. So our eggs were all about that. We had some normal ones but these made Sam very happy
Sam getting excited to go look for eggs

2008-04-02T08:15:00.000-07:00

I just looked at my brother and sister in laws blog. They crack me up. I love it so much. Eric is so creative and it looks like an amazing father. But that didn't surprise me the way he takes care of his beautiful wife and my sister in law ( they are the same person!)

It made me smile. I love to see their new baby. I can't wait to meet her. She looks beautiful.

We had a nice Easter. I made my potato casserole and broccoli salad and went to my sister's in law's house. They have a beautiful view of Boise and the mountains. Plus a swimming pool for the warmer weather. She had baskets for my boys and had an egg hunt for all of the kids.

Then we got to go to the airport and pick up my sweet husband and amazing dad. The kids were very excited to see him. Kevin too. He remembered him from the last time he was in town. It was such a nice visit. Albeit too short. But at least we enjoyed it and he took extra time tending to the kids and the house and lawn. We miss him but understand why he is gone so much. Bummer.

The spring weather has brought more building of houses and the neighbors put their horses out in the bigger pasture to run around. That means its closer to our house but my camera fails to show the beauty and makes things look further out then they are. It is truly beautiful out here.

My sister and I and her daughter and friend went to get familiar with tying the belay at the local rock climbing gym. It was alot of fun. I haven't done that in about 10 years or maybe more since I was teen anyway. I still have my shoes somewhere. We want to do it every week. So that might help with my ups and downs. Plus the spring weather warming up should help.

Sam has been so wonderful he has been playing with Kevin more and more. He is totally into Star wars lately. The other day we played Lego star wars and I got to drive the millennium falcon into the death star and blow it up. It was like watching the movie except I was Lando.. ha ha.

Sam is signing up for kindergarten next week. Acck. He is getting so big I can't believe it . We also have to go back down to visit Cali to go to Lego land with Aunt Marg. We are excited.

Kevin's Birthday

2008-03-24T12:53:00.001-07:00

Eating grandma's yummy cake
My first birthday with cake courtesy of grandma j! Yum!
Making faces at aunt marg. I am so sweet.

2008-02-12T10:31:00.000-08:00

Sam's Bounty from Christmas. Thanks Eric and Teresa for the Sweet transformers and Grandma and Grandpa L.

Sam is nice to Kevin for photos otherwise Kevin is a bother to him Kevin loves his brother though!

What we came home to

2008-02-12T10:27:00.000-08:00

from 80 degrees to 40 degrees. Look they are building a new house in our neighborhood. We won't be the only house in our culdesac anymore!

Where Grandma is layed to rest.

2008-02-12T10:25:00.000-08:00

Grandmas' Funeral

2008-02-12T10:24:00.000-08:00

2008-02-12T10:23:00.000-08:00

2008-02-12T10:22:00.000-08:00

Disneyland fun.

2008-02-12T10:21:00.000-08:00

2008-02-12T10:19:00.000-08:00

Fun at our friends in Cali

2008-02-12T10:18:00.000-08:00

Power outages are lovely

2008-01-14T20:02:00.000-08:00

So I finally decide to write an update about the holidays but in the middle of it all my baby starts to cry so I leave (without saving) to check on him and while that happens my power decides to go out and I lose it all.

Who know if I can sum it up. But I will try but for now I have kids to get to bed!

Christmas

2008-01-03T18:46:00.000-08:00

I love these guys SO much!

Snow dayz

2008-01-03T18:45:00.000-08:00

Our driveway. Yep I shoveled it courtesy of my mom and dad bringing Sam and I shovels!!

Snow dayz

2008-01-03T18:43:00.000-08:00

Sam was playing

2007-12-24T11:24:00.000-08:00

Sam was playing on the Norad Santa website.. I came into the room and I heard the song "grandma got ran over by a reindeer" So I sang the title and Sam swiveled around and Said "YOUR MOM".
Cute quote of the day from my boy Sam

2007-12-24T11:23:00.000-08:00

Sam and Kevin
My cuties
He IS a sweetheart!
The Boss around here!

2007-12-24T11:20:00.000-08:00

First Day of Preschool
Kevin trying to see Aunt Mollie trying clothes on!
He loves grapefruit
Sam weilding the camera, quite well too!

front yard snow

2007-12-24T11:16:00.000-08:00

Snow and Spinouts

2007-12-24T11:15:00.000-08:00

how would they figure that?

2007-12-19T15:19:00.001-08:00

My blog is worth $1,129.08.
How much is your blog worth?

Joy Joy Joy

2007-12-14T20:05:00.000-08:00

So my husband offered to dog sit this weekend for my brother and sister in law. I said "you are in charge" But really it is nice to have another female around even if it is a dog. She has been a good girl overall except for the poop and pee in our garage. She howls when she gets lonely. But really she hasn't done it much. Kevin keeps trying to get into her water dish and lets her come up and try to lick his face. Kevin loves dogs and babies. Sam is so excited to have a dog around too. I think husband likes it as well. She is growing on me. I just think I prefer the lab type of dogs. She is cute though. I kind of interuppted her nap trying to take this picture of her. Sorry Chloe! Sam and I worked on some coloring to send to a few lucky souls and we went out to the mailbox to send them off. The mail had already come and we both squeeled with joy to see not one but TWO packages on our doorstep. Of course Sam was disapointed to find out they were for me and even more disapointed that one of them I told him I have to wait until Christmas to open. But to my pleasant surprise and his my wonderful cousin in the San Franscisco area went to visit family in Czechoslovakia in September and brought me some yummy "spa wafers" She even sent gummy frogs and a milk chocolate ritter bar for the boys. Sam is afraid to eat the frogs so we decided we are going to make garland out of them for our tree.
My cute boys this was taken back in July. I just love it though!
TA DA! What our house looked like early one morning as I was taking Sam to preschool. Also a picture so you that wonder what our house looks like! Notice the famous "band van" in the RV parking. I love it. So far!!. Its been cold. Especially on our walks with miss chloe.
I hope you all have a wonderful holiday this year. I am excited to be with my family but I do miss my family and friends back in California. I still think of all of you all the time. Yes Michelle I miss you too up in montana. Can't wait for our visit!

First Day

2007-11-14T15:30:00.000-08:00

Sam went to his first day of preschool yesterday.

He was excited, so excited.

It was pouring rain when I dropped him off. But he let me take a picture of his smiling face to capture the moment. Then I gave him his backpack and headed inside.

It was nice and I think a surprise for him to see so many kids the same age as him. At our free classes at the library there is usually maybe one other his age and the rest much younger.

He didn't even turn his head to say goodbye. I said "bye Sam" "are you going to be ok" He said "yes" without looking up from the transformer toy the teacher promised him he could play with. They have a a half hour of arrival time to get settled and play.. Reminded me of when I was in kindergarten.

I picked him up and he didn't really want to talk about the day just that he said he liked it and it was a good day.
Then I got out of him that the teached said they use their pencils to write their names and markers to trace and crayons to color. It was cute. He also told me he asked the teacher why she didn't give him the fruit snacks I bought for the class. She gave out goldfish his first day. She told him they would have them on a different day. He also thinks he made at least 1 friend but he doesn't know his name and that there are 10 kids in his class.

He is excited to go to his 2nd day.

Most of these kids know each other already and have been going since September. Sam handled himself really well.

I am so proud of him.
I was a bit emotional about driving away after dropping him off. I didn't think would be but I guess my heart isn't all stone. Just most of it.

Out for a walk!!

2007-11-13T13:31:00.000-08:00

Trying to keep up with Sam and his bike
Look at this sweet move!
Hi Grandma and Grandpa!!

My handsome family

2007-11-13T13:22:00.000-08:00

Shopping is over

2007-11-05T21:14:00.001-08:00

We have made the transition! Well we are still in the middle of it. It's very exciting. Even though we are "house poor" now its so exciting to actually be in a place that we are not renting after ten years of marriage and renting. It is crazy and wonderful.

We were driving down the road from some errands, it's a family event when husband is in town. that way we get time with each other and visiting as well even if it's not a date or some kind of cool thing like go kart racing or rockclimbing. Its time spent as a family together which I may complain about but if I hated it so much I wouldn't do it. I just love being with my husband and boys. Husband makes me sane.

The house is beautiful the yard is a giant field that has potential for many things plus a space for a garden.. Seriously this yard could have a. a tennis court b. a basketball court c. lots of cool toys I don't know what yet.

We are peicing everything together. bit by bit. I don't know where alot of our stuff is or somehow got lost on the way even things as mundane as a can opener. The first few nights were very european. well to me.. just chunks of bread, cheese and tomatoes and water. Very yummy especially when you are REALLY hungery.

I am about 20 minutes from my parents and somewhat close to my other family. Its fun. It is a small community but next to a large community so it's perfect and quaint.

I will have to post more later.. My computer is undergoing stuff and set up still that is why I haven't been able to post or actually email anyone.

Kevin is stirring... I better catch him

Shopping

2007-09-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

So we were shopping for a house in my hometown and we found one just outside. I should know more in the next week or so.. Its been a whirlwind of moving so quickly and staying at my parents during the transition while hubby is touring. Only a couple more weeks and he will be home and we might be in a new house. Hooray!

more to come soon!!!

Ultimatums and Optimus Prime

2007-09-03T22:53:00.000-07:00

We are in the middle of moving. It is crazy around here. Husband took a job so no packing was done. I was busy with kids and meeting with fabulous cousins of ours! Our friends had a labor day lunch slash going away party for us. Swimming, slip and slide, Good food and good friends. They will be very missed.

I packed as much as I could. My friends daughter came over to help rein in the boys for me. She didn't want pay since it was her project for her young women's in excellance to help us move and babysit our kids. It was sweet of her and a bonus for us to not pay her. We would pay her and wanted to but she said she just has fun with us anyway and wouldn't want pay. Silly and sweet.

So they don't have the "fast action battlers" with optimus prime or bumblebee anywhere in stock. So I had to dish out more then I should have for a sweet optimus prime that has flashing lights and sounds but still converts.

The fast action ones are great they are a level 2 transformer which is great for 4 year olds to change back and forth from robot to car or whatever they transform into. The one I bought is level 4. it's alot harder to convert. But still fun I enjoy sitting changing them when I can for him. But its hard, like a rubix cube.

I also lost a good friend too.

So alot has happened and I am going to bed. I will post more later.