Steve & Teresa's Great Adventures!

Missin’ My Blog

2011-02-01T07:37:00.001-08:00

Yep, life is crazy busy. I miss life when it was such a slower pace and I was actually home more. I keep up the blog where I work sometimes – and it makes me miss my own.

Now that my girls have their own camera, it’s fun to go on the computer and see what kind of things they’ve loaded. Nothing too bad yet. Just pretty stuff like this.

Or stange stuff, like this….

Life isn’t boring, that’s for sure.

Viva Las Vegas!

2010-09-05T09:12:00.000-07:00

I have never been to Vegas. Yes, I know, I have lived in Arizona off and on for 15 years and have always wanted to go. Somehow, I convinced Steve to drive home via the Vegas route – with enough time to explore and spend the night.

We arrived around 4pm, checked into the Excalibur Hotel – which is HUGE!

This gave us enough time….actually, plenty of time to get settled, grab some dinner and EXPLORE. I can’t say there were many kids in Vegas – just mainly couples. Great people watching place, that’s for sure.

We walked the strip…..and walked…and walked. It was a WARM night – low 100’s….but hey, we’re from AZ, we can handle it.

The monorail was free and took us to the 3 hotels next to us. We rode it a few times….the boys liked how fast it went.

And who needs Disneyland anyway, when we have these guys….

Lots of character’s dressed up. Pretty scary, actually. We passed them by QUICKLY.

But my kids most FAVORITE PLACE EVER….

They LOVED M&M World. Four stories of nothing but M&M merchandise (grammie, you would love it).

More pictures as the strip was starting to light up more…

Vegas, glad we stopped, but sort of a been there done that kind of place.

Next Stop….SLC

2010-09-03T08:46:00.000-07:00

After saying our ‘goodbyes’ at the reunion, Jeff and Starr returned home with their Grandma and Grandpa Hartman back to Washington. Steve with the rest of us drove Becca back to Rexburg, only stopping long enough for Steve to get the 1 hour campus tour from Becca he missed on the drive up.

Speaking of Steve, I neglected to mention he flew up to Missoula the Wednesday I was driving up with the kids. He wanted to spend a few days with his good friend, Ken Kanenwisher, before the reunion. He had a great time helping his oldest son with his Eagle Project, floating the river, and just catching up on life. Terri picked him in Missoula and drove him to the reunion.

Okay, where was I…..after Rexburg, we heading to SLC to spend a full day. It had been at least 4-5 years since we had been to SL, and realized our little kids would have been to young to remember much. So we spent the morning at Temple Square…

Toured the visitor centers, the museum across the street, the Conference Center and, of course, a stop for lunch at the Lion House fit in there somewhere.

What a great day!

Big Sky Country

2010-09-01T16:40:00.000-07:00

After spending our first day in Montana, my kids asked if we could live here permanently. It really is gorgeous. I was thinking….ya, that would be awesome, but then I remembered what the winters are like…and on second thought……..no thanks. My husband would argue that – he tells me we would move back in a heartbeat….hummmmm.

But July in Montana is heavenly…..and the cabin resort we stayed at was top notch. There were pine trees everywhere…green grass….and the deer would just walk by you only a few feet away. We loved it. And to top it off, together with cousins and extended family was marvelous.

This is the pond just down the hill from our cabin…..

But who needs a pond when we have an indoor pool and Jacuzzi….

Favorite faces…good times….

The Hartman Clan…..

Usually, one the best things about a reunion is the food….this one was no exception!

And cousin Leona did not disappoint on the last night with a luau theme….Josh was so afraid of the roasted pig!

And after the auction and dinner we thought the fun was over…but NO WAY….Leona whips out her cotton candy machine. WOO HOO! After cotton candy was the marshmallow roasting and making smores. Forget about trying to get the kids to bed at a decent time with such a sugar high – and it doesn’t help the sun doesn’t go down until 10pm. Oh well, we’re on vacation, afterall.

Good times! No, GREAT Times. So worth the trip!!!!

Rexburg…

2010-08-20T09:04:00.000-07:00

I love Rexburg. Minus the cold. Lots of history….20+ years ago when the school was called Ricks College instead of BYU-I, was where Steve and I met. I worked in the college cafeteria, and he ate there…..three long years later…waaalaa….married with 6 children.

I had only been back once or twice before leaving, so when our drive to Montana took us through Rexburg to pick up Rebecca (my niece) for the reunion, I jumped at the chance to spend a little time there looking at the campus and enjoyed seeing how much it changed. Becca gave us the ‘quick tour’ … we had 4 kids tagging along with the 2 little boys whining….but it was still fun.

For dinner we picked up pizza and went over to the park and also let the kids play in water – it was a warm day (for Rexburg), so they loved it.

and no trip to Rexburg is complete without a stop at COCOA BEAN!

Rexburg, it was good seeing you….can’t wait to return someday!

“The Best Stop, Ever!!”

2010-08-20T08:14:00.000-07:00

So the night before we left my mom’s house, I googled Napolian Dynamite and found out where the movie was filmed. Preston, Idaho….yep, that would work. We were leaving Thursday morning for Rexburg and we would just have to go north through Logan to find it. The kids were so excited…..

After we arrived in Preston, we plugged in the addresses of the specific places in the movie (I got them off the internet), but the GPS, wouldn’t recognize many….it did take us to the elementary school where some tetherball scenes were filmed.

We stopped at a cute place for lunch…..they served kids meals in cowboy hats….so adorable. We then them asked for information – they directed us to the Chamber of Commerce downtown where we picked up a real map. SCORE!!

We located the High School….

Pedro’s House….

And of course…outside of town…..Napolian’s house….

And the field next door where they kept the llama….

On our way to Rexburg, I listened to quotes from the movie the rest of the way….ha ha. The kids thought it was the BEST STOP EVER!

Onward…Ever Onward….

2010-08-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

After picking up Starr near Provo – who just finished floating the Provo River with her friend Jillian, we headed to South Jordan to have dinner with my two stepsisters, Kristi and Karen, and meet their families. I’m ashamed to say I hadn’t seen them since HS. I’ve always tried to keep up with their lives through my parents and Facebook, but it was so good to see them in person.

That evening we again drove to Evanston, Wyoming to spend the night with my mom and Paul. We got in pretty late – but they had their new large camping trailer waiting for us and my kids thought it was the best. To wind down the kids, they watched Napolian Dynamite…..which gave me an idea…..more later…..

We spent all of Wednesday with mom and Paul, showing us the Buffalo Preserve and enjoying the park – the weather was amazing….probably low 80’s high 70’s. That night my mom threw a barbeque with more family members, inviting more family living close by. My kids had no idea I have so many step-sisters…and that they had so many cousins.

Nostalgia

2010-08-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

It was fun to travel with just the boys. Leaving Moab and heading up to the SLC area to pick up Starr left us driving through Green River and Price to get there. Oh, the memories. My grandma and grandpa Curtis used to live in Green River…since I can remember. And so did their parents. This is where my dad was raised and where my parents met – when they eventually married, they even lived here briefly at one time.

The sad thing about Green River, is that it really hasn’t changed much during the past 40 years…okay, maybe just a little. The population is under 1000…and holding. The town just seemed older to me this time as we drove through it. Buildings were shut down and falling part, paint peeling, and doors and windows boarded up on what used to be the main buildings downtown. It just wasn’t the same, especially since both my grandparents have since passed away. It seems so strange to drive by their old house and not stop to visit them. I miss it….a lot! It brought back a flood of emotion to see their old house, the baseball field across the street from their house where we used to sit and watch games. The big awesome park with the huge rocket that had the best and fastest merry-go round. And then on the same street as their house, the LDS church building where we would often walk to church with them – and everyone could tell we looked like a ‘Curtis’ ….the same building my grandparents celebrated their 50th anniversary over 20 years ago – and a place where I said my last good-bye to them – 13 years ago and 5 years ago. Oh, how I miss them.

This is their old house where my great-grandparents lived..as well as my grandparents. Even my grandparents on my mother’s side lived in this house.

Eventually, my grandparents put in a manufactured home next door and moved there.

Jeff asked to see the cemetery – I guess he’s heard us talk about it. It’s a very….ummm unique cemetery. It’s just not very pretty – lots of dirt and sagebrush. But my family is here – so it will always mean a lot to me.

After giving my son a brief family history lesson on Green River, we drove on to Price – an hour long drive of nothing but dirt, and sagebrush along mountains I have more than memorized during my lifetime.

I was born in Price and lived there until I was 11. So I had to find the house to show my sons….

Yep, looks the same, except for the fence in the front. It’s a corner lot so we always had people cutting through our lawn – I guess this solved this problem. I drove to one of my best-friends house up the street and saw her mom sitting on the porch – how fun it was to stop and introduce myself briefly – and yes, 30 years later, she still remembered me. Or so she says…:)

I showed my boys our neighborhood, the great parks….and the swimming pool 2 miles away we used to walk to as kids.

It was mentally exhausting – but therapeutic. Two hours later we made our way up near Provo where we explored the BYU area and finally picked up Starr. During this time she had been on her ‘girl trip’ (see below posts) and we hadn’t seen in her almost 2 weeks. So slowing I’m accumulating family as we make our way up to Montana.

Side Trips – Moab!

2010-08-14T08:19:00.000-07:00

It was an uneventful drive from Mesa up to Moab. Driving through small towns…the reservation….just your normal 9 hour drive. Jeff downloaded the AZ Driving Manual App on his itouch – so he and I spent many hours doing the ‘flash cards’ on that while the two little boys watched movies in the back seat. Afterall, he gets his driving permit in March…..aaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhh.

The next day, my dad took the 4 of us up to the Lasal Mountains for hiking and a picnic. So pretty…..so green…so COOL…it was great.

Then back to grandparents house…..

On Monday Jeff and grandpa went golfing…..Jeff says it’s his favorite golf course because it so gorgeous! Oh, ya!

While the guys golfed…I took the boys to the park – Moab really does have the best parks!

Monday evening, my parents invited several family members who lived close by come over for a BBQ. So fun to see everyone! I missed my hubby and girls – but the boys were so fun!

Summer Road Trip…..Montana here we come!

2010-08-01T08:31:00.000-07:00

Honestly, the idea of making a long road trip with 5 kids was making me nervous. Afterall, our family can’t drive 15 minutes from our house without the kids fighting with each other. The most we drive is 6 hours to San Deigo once or twice a year and that’s torture enough. So to make a 2-3 day trip up north….well you can imagine the dread. Don’t get me wrong, we’ve made numerous family trips before….but in an airplane…duh. However, when the economy took a dive, well, so did our paychecks…..on top of our expanding family. It’s no longer become so affordable.

But yep, we promised cousin Leona we’d come. She was in charge of the family reunion in Montana this year. And Montana…how I love Montana. Steve and I lived there for 2 years while he was getting his Master’s Degree in Missoula. One of the best times of our married lives. And sooo gorgeous – well, summer time, anyway. How could we not go?

I mentally planned (yes, I’m a planner) for a while…and honestly, it got to the point were I was actually looking forward to this trip. The biggest obstacle, however, was making the trip in our van. Let’s just say, “Vanna” is 11 years old – 135,000 miles and not that dependable these days. Steve’s truck, that seats 6, is half the age…half the miles. So it was decided we’d take the truck…but how to fit of 7 into a truck that seats 6.

The plan….

Emi flys up 1 week before to spend a week with grandparents and meets us at the reunion.
Steve couldn’t get much time off work, so he flew up to Missoula on Wednesday – to hang out with the Kanenwisher clan for 2 days until Terri picks him up on the way to the reunion.
Starr is already in SLC on a ‘girls’ trip – so I’ll pick her up on the way.
Leave the Saturday before with only the 3 boys. We spend Sat. night – Tues morning in Moab with my parents.
Pick up Starr in SLC on Tuesday,
Visit my mom in Evanston on Wednesday,
Rexburg Thursday – picking up my niece, Becca for the reunion.
Arrive at the reunion Friday.

Coming home….

Steve drives home with me. Yes, Steve…all the way home.
Jeff and Starr go home with Grandpa and Grandma Hartman and fly home a week later.
Drop off Becca in Rexburg on the way home.
Steve and I have the 3 little kids, so we’re going to do the ‘Temple Square things’ on the way home…oh, and go through Vegas….a first for us.

With this plan in mind…..let the trip begin!! (Yep, Josh…I feel your pain!)

Starr’s Sensational Summer

2010-07-31T09:04:00.000-07:00

Ya, that Starr is one lucky girl. She went on a girls trip with good friends -- Carmen, Ally, and Janae to SLC for a week – mainly temple hopping. Since the 3 girls that went were all recently 12, this was a new experience. EIGHT temples in ONE week – Amazing. They loved doing all the baptisms and seeing all the beautiful temples. They also found time to go to the Stadium of Fire in Provo (on July 4th) to see Carrie Underwood. And of course, no trip to SL is complete without a day a Lagoon!!!

The BRAVE mom – Carmen….

And being into fitness as much as Carmen is….she dragged the girls up to hike the ‘Y’ in Provo. Bribing them with the Provo Creamery ice cream afterwards didn’t hurt either.

Our future missionaries…..

I was on my way up to Utah as the girls were suppose to return home…..so Starr was dropped off at Jillian’s house (her good friend who moved to SLC a few years ago) to spend a few days while I made my way to pick her up.

What a great experience for Starr. I’m so grateful. And they’re already planning another trip for next year!

Summer - NYLT

2010-07-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

I know it’s been a while, I but I just wanted to go back to record our summer break. It was good. Real good. Everyone was so busy this year – perhaps that was the trick to a good summer….yep, I think so.

Jeff went to NYLT (National Youth Leadership Training) for Boy Scouts. How we talked him into that, is beyond me. I think we were just so convincing, he didn’t feel like he had a choice. When he did rarely complain (at the end) ,we would remind him how great it would look on his resume and college applications…then he was fine. He started taking the classes in February – they were monthly and took up many of his Saturdays and by the time June came, he had went through the program and was able to serve on staff for new boys in NYLT. His assignment was kitchen Quartermaster – so he was assistant cook all week….and actually loved it. After coming home, he gave me an entire lesson on cutting watermelons….I had no idea I was doing it wrong all this time. He also had to teach classes. What a great experience! I love Scouting!

Spring Break – March

2010-04-29T18:22:00.001-07:00

Okay, I’m testing out a new program – a blog writer in Windows Live Writer. I thought I’d try it out on our Spring Break pictures since I haven’t posted it yet.

This was the first time in AGES we haven’t been in San Diego during Spring Break. With Tate going through his chemo again, my sister and her husband back in college and our week not being the same as my sister’s kids spring break, we decided to just hang out at home. Yes, I did my share of pouting. At least the weather was gorgeous.

We did some indoor rock climbing……

We had to spend time at Mignon’s and get our “Jack fix”. We just love their puppy….and my kids have become quite attached.

Our big highlight was going to the Wild Animal Park and Aquarium with Terri and Jessica – it was a first for our family. We normally just go to the Phoenix Zoo, so this was something different.

Feeding the giraffe – yes, that’s Starr….ugh.

Lots of hands on stuff, as you can see. It made it all…..ummmm…interesting. Great fun.

Magical Maroons.....

2010-03-07T12:06:00.000-08:00

All good things must come to an end.....and so must volleyball. Starr and her 2 'besties' joined volleyball together in January -- all have never played on a team before -- but they had the best time. Steve was their assistant coach and learned ALOT. Their team name was the 'Magical Maroons' (Starr's idea). One of the girls on the team made all the girls yellow flowers to wear in their hair at the games....yes, probably the most fashionable team. At their practices, the girls would come up with with twists and turns coordinated together in a drill team like fashion...but the coach was a little 'rigid' and wouldn't let them do it at the games. Below are few pictures of their last game.

Coming FULL CIRCLE

2010-03-07T11:41:00.000-08:00

Steve and his best friend, Mark, from Seattle still continue the tradition of rocking out at the Bon Jovi concert whenever they come to Phoenix -- they usually tour every 2 years and this is the 3rd time the 'boys' have come together for the concert. Once again, they took Jeff with them and the 3 of them loved every moment. According the boys review.....it wasn't his best concert, but he still puts on a good show.

And since Mark was here in town for a few days, they played hard. The highlights was touring Chase Field - where the D-Backs play, getting a VIP tour of the USAirways Arena where the Suns play, movies, and sitting at home playing Mike Tyson PunchOut on the an old Nintendo. This is the same video game they played when they were roommates at Ricks (aka, BYU-I) over 20 years ago. Last spring, Mark surprised Steve by finding the game, and so Steve surprised Mark by finding an old Nintendo game system to play it on. It kept the boys occupied for hours.

We found snow!

2010-02-24T12:03:00.001-08:00

It's been on the calendar for a few weeks now. The kids had a half day of school last Wednesday, so Steve took the day off and as soon as the kids walked in the door at noon, we took off for Happy Jack (30 min. north of Payson). Believe me, I was not sure if we were going to find snow....they did have a lot of snow up north earlier this year, but it was near 80 in Mesa...and it cooled to 60's when we arrived in Payson....no snow anywhere to be seen on the way.....we kept driving up the mountain...saw a few patches here and there. We drive a few miles more above Strawberry and finally we see SNOW....lots of SNOW. Whew - what a difference a few miles makes. We were the only ones there all afternoon and had a blast. We'll definately come again next year.

Ha ha Starr...I no idea what this is about.

For Joseph, this was even better than video games!

Mom and Joseph resting...

Yes, Josh is wearing pink and purple...it's all we had in his size...haha. He enjoyed throwing snowballs at everyone.

Jan/Feb Recap

2010-02-24T11:39:00.000-08:00

This is what our family has been up to since 2010!

**Our annual New Year's hike in the superstition mountains.

**Steve assistant coaching Starr's volleyball team.

** Parent night/orientations for Jr. High and High School...not to mention helping kids figure our school schedules.

**Boy Scouts --trying to get caught up, organized, and have almost succeeded. Just finished putting on a Scout Court of Honor last week.

**In the middle of another art show at Costco....done this weekend and then I can tackle the next project...yeah!

Coming up....yard work (thanks to all this rain), garden planting, anniversary, and softball season....gotta love it all!

Carrot Pudding

2010-02-24T11:30:00.000-08:00

My sister and I have fond memories of my grandma Curtis' carrot pudding. She always made it during the holidays and it was definite family favorite. This holiday season Katie and I wanted to see if we could come close to duplicating it. We found the recipe, forgot some ingredients (opps), but it was still super yummy - and we'll try again soon. So here's to you grandma....we sure miss you!

Temple lights

2010-02-24T11:13:00.000-08:00

After Thanksgiving we saw the temple lights with our children and extended family. We like to go early enough in the month so we're not freezing....although it was very busy! Here are some favorite pics....

Jeff and Jessica....
Me and my mama...
Thanks to Terri for the rest of these pictures....lovely.

2009 Christmas Recap

2010-02-24T10:40:00.001-08:00

I believe the technical word for what I'm about to do is called 'blog barf'. Don't pay attention to the smell..haha. And I think I did this last year too -- my apologies.

Our ward Christmas party included visits with Santa. I'm so glad there's a picture of Emi wearing her boots, as I don't think she took them off the entire month because she loved them so much.

Doesn't Joseph look excited?

My big Joshua....wasn't even scared. Brave boy.

We made gingerbread houses....the boys house....

verses the girls house....
Our Family Christmas Eve party. Two cousins....I love this picture.

The pinata. I couldn't find a Christmas themed one, but this one did great. However, he was almost too cute to break!
But we did it anyway.....poor thing.
The favorite white elephant gift exchange.
We have a tradition of opening pj's on Christmas eve....however this year, as Steve's mom's gift to us, she made us all pajama pants......we loved them. Steve and I got frogs on ours (yes, there's a story in there somewhere that I won't go in to.)
This year they all matched what the kids loved....the little boys have Curious George on theirs, Emi has butterflies/flowers, Starr has stars and Jeff and sports. Can't wait to see what she comes up with next year.

Christmas morning.....

Our December.....

2010-02-24T10:25:00.001-08:00

One word describes our December....puzzles!

After getting reaquainted with an old friend, Eric Dowdle, from High School (thanks to facebook), we got to talking and when he learned I work Costco Roadshows with another art company from Utah, he invited to work his show in December. It was by far the hardest and longest show I've ever worked. It started black Friday in November and went through Christmas. Dowdle Folk Art hired both Steve and myself -- which involved Steve driving a large truck up to SLC, driving it back, and then keeping 3 Costco's stocked with 42 different types of puzzles every day. It was exhausting...fun...and just plain hard work. However, since Steve works in the construction industry, we were grateful for the extra work. Would we do it again? I don't know....I compare it to having a baby -- perhaps after a while the pain will be forgotten. We shall see.

Soaring with the Eagles....

2010-01-15T10:10:00.000-08:00

Scouting is huge in our family. Steve is an Assistant Scout Master (4+ years) and I'm the Scout Advancement Chair....so there was NO WAY Jeff could avoid scouting...not that he has ever wanted to. He's always loved scouts....loved going to scout camps....monthly campouts...and his favorite, the winter campouts...burrrrrr.

It all began in Cub Scouts.....(this is Jeff as a Bear (9 years old)......awwww....and he's still good friends with the 2 boys on both sides of him, Logan and Carson.

Jeff absolutely loved having his dad attending the campouts with him. The 2 of them have great fun together...and I have to say, Steve has enjoyed every moment too.

Having fun at a snow campout!

Just last September, Jeff earned his Eagle rank (a week after his 14th birthday). Steve and I scheduled Order of the Arrow to put on his Eagle Court of Honor on December 19th. He shared this special day with his good friend, Jake...who earned his Eagle a month after Jeff. They've been best friends since they were 4 and were even baptized on the same day when they were 8.
Jeff was inducted into OA a few months ago and looks forward to participating in this service organization.

Jeff, Jake and their Scout Master..and 11 year older leader, Jay Lunt.

We're proud of you Jeff...you've work hard and you deserve this! We love you!

Bound for Missouri....

2010-01-10T18:29:00.001-08:00

Last month, early December, I was able to fly to Missouri....with my dad....NO HUSBAND...NO KIDS...(all whom I dearly love)...just me and dad. My nephew, Richard, was getting married in Kansas City - so I was able to go to his wedding...along with seeing 2 brothers and their families and 1 sister and her family who all live in Missouri. As an extra bonus, another nephew, Corban, was expecting his mission call and received it the day of the wedding - it was fun to all be together when he opened it. It was so great to see everyone and just enjoy the family I don't see often enough. By the way my Missouri family....it's 70 degrees here in Arizona right now.....a great time of year to come visit me!

So these are the highlights of my trip....

My nieces can make up some seriously cute raps. You go girls!

We had a girl picture......

And a guy picture (my brothers and dad)!

Of course, mom 'read' some feet.....that was fun....

And I even got a foot rub in.....(she's getting her reflexology training hours in)...glad I could help out.

My siblings and I at the wedding.

My cute nieces -- yes, I have adorable nephews....somewhere....

Oh, here's a few of them.

My brother and mom.

My nephew Richard and his new bride Sarah.

As I mentioned at the beginning, my nephew received his mission call the morning of the wedding. The only time our entire family was together was at the wedding in the evening. So after the bride and groom cut the cake, several of us disappeared into an empty room so Corban could open up his call.......sooooo exciting -- he was called to serve in San Jose, CA on Feb. 10th. Congrats Corban!

Christmas surprises....

2009-12-22T07:51:00.000-08:00

My 3-year old (who thinks he's actually 4)...Josh took matters into his own hands when it was halfway through December and our tree still wasn't up. I came downstairs one morning after getting the older kids off to school to find he had pulled this little tree inside the house from the garage and was trying to put the legs on it. I helped him out and then he pulled it into the front room and placed it where we usually put our tree. Later in the day, he managed to find these bulbs I had put aside and took matters into decorating the tree himself.

The finished product.....

Later in the week, we did manage to put up our BIG tree. He's thrilled. I love 3 year olds at Christmas!

Oh as a side note...Josh remained attached to his Santa throughout all of this year...having to sleep with him every night! After pulling out the Christmas decorations, he was so excited to find a bunch of 'ho ho's' (his name for Santa). Starr took these pictures when he discovered them....

Thankful moment.....

2009-12-22T07:23:00.000-08:00

My favorite cousin, Mignon, hosted Thanksgiving this year...as she does every other year. I love it when it comes around -- I get to see so many family members from out of town -- even ones IN TOWN that I don't see often enough. It was a good day.....

Mignon, Bruce, Austin and David.....all more like my siblings than cousins....

My aunt Jackie and Uncle Jim. I love that we get to eat outside. The weather was simply gorgeous!
Steve, Terri, and Jessica...
Bryce, Heidi and Heidi's family....

Turkey taking it's effect on David and Bert.
Me and my sister Katie.
After dinner -- it's off to play games...
And other's playing Rock Band....
What a great day!!!

Joseph's big 7!

2009-11-22T12:28:00.000-08:00

Remembering back 7 years ago....Joseph's due date was on the 15th, which was a little too close to Amanda's birthday (the 16th) for my comfort. Amanda's b-day day is always a rough day for me, so it was a tender mercy that he came 5 days late -- and now I have a few days to breath again before celebrating my healthy happy Joseph's birthday.

SEVEN words that would describe Joseph would be....peacemaker, happy, decisive, smart, loving, consistent, and calm.

He decided he wanted a Curious George/Monkey party this year with a few friends. We held it after school on Friday and the weather was GORGEOUS, so everything was done outside....sweetness!

These are the yummy cupcakes he took to school to share with his class.

Let the party start...most the monkey's are now ready to monkey around!

One of the activities was to paint some monkey's.

When then got bored with that, they started painting a banana used during a previous game.
Pin the birthday hat on the monkey...
The cute Curious George monkey....Joseph loved this mask.

Instead of birthday cake, Joseph wanted banana boats. Everyone had a banana, we sliced them open - still in the peel...and put in chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, and marshmallows...and then wrapped them loosely in foil. While they were in the oven getting gooey, Joseph opened presents. Before we ate them, we topped them with ice cream, whipped cream, and sprinkles.

I had to have something to put the candles on for him to blow out - so I bought a few small cupcakes. They worked perfect.

The opening of gifts...he received some great stuff and was thrilled with everything he received -- although he doesn't show excitement very easily. His grammie sent him a gift card to Wal-Mart. When I asked him what he was going to buy with it he said, "Cereal. There are so many kinds of cereal I want to try!" Poor deprived kid.
We sure do love you, Joseph!

Halloween....better late than never!

2009-11-12T07:07:00.000-08:00

I know....someday I'll get caught up with my life. Halloween seems like it was so long ago -- which made me think I'd better add pictures before Thanksgiving sneaks up in a few days.

Of course this year was pretty typical of other years, which included, Trunk or Treat at the church beginning at 5pm, and then some of the kids taking off with their friends -- the little boys with Steve-- to do their some trick or treating while I sat outside with my sister, Katie, and my dad, to hand out candy.

This is Steve (punk rocker) with our scary guy Joseph and Farmer Josh. (Yes, still obsessed with farms.)
Our farmer Josh posing with movie star Emi.
Emi posing with a scarecrow that Starr and Emi made with their dad the week before at a daddy-daughter Primary Activity Days night. Of course it's a Nacho Libre scarecrow.

Starr made a cute Alice.

Senor Jeff and the cute little Bee, Jessica. Jeff had to sing for all the people before he could get candy.

Our trunk or treat fun....with a dinner of hotdogs...thanks to the bishopric.
Home after taking the boys trick or treating and handing out candy in the driveway. The weather was gorgeous.

Jeff's friend Logan (we love Logan) dressed as the Mad Hatter so we made Starr pose with him -- she wasn't very happy with us...haha
Once again....a great time!

Mexico update....finally

2009-11-09T12:41:00.000-08:00

Our 4th trip annual trip to Rocky Point, Mexico with friends from our ward was a blast! Our group was a little smaller this year due to tighter passport rules and some having safely issues, but none-the-less, worth every second and we braved it out just fine.

It always seems to take me at least a week to get ready for this trip ... but when we tent it and pack for 7 of us, including 3 meals a day, that's just life. This year we left Tuesday afternoon and returned home Saturday late afternoon....perfect length. And I enjoyed being home on Sunday -- with one day to empty out the sand, unpack, and actually attend church before everyone leaves me with a mess come Monday morning. I had no idea how we fit it all in the back of the truck. Next year, I'll have to take a picture of the 'blue turtle'.... (the truck with a blue tarp covering it). We usually caravan over with the Tidwell family -- Starr enjoys taking the break from her siblings and riding with her bff, Janae. Our truck only fits 6 - so we usually have to pawn off one of our kids. And then it's only a 4 hour drive...much closer than the 6 hour San Deigo drive we sometimes take. And driving to Mexico is usually pretty eventful, especially when you pass the border.. it's getting dark, all the signs are in spanish...which you can't read anyway because they don't use reflective tape, and to top it off, some of these Mexicans don't believe in driving with their headlights on....sheese! Anyway we returned alive and unscathed.

These are just a few highlights....

Josh playing with his new truck in the sand...he was in heaven.

Josh is just happy to be playing outside...in the sand...for 5 days...
Starr walking the beach...
This is where Joseph was most of the time...playing in the sand...
The kids LOVED the banana boat ride. Of course they had to ride EVERY day.
It was only cool enough to wear these pj's on the first day. The rest of the evenings were in the 70's.
Emi and Alyssa.
Jeff and his friends getting snorkling gear on to go spear fishing....
Steve snorkling with Jeff -- and I have to add that I also snorkled for my FIRST time this year. The water felt great -- not too cool.

Starr showing off the necklace she purchased from a beach vendor....cute!

Love this picture of Josh...
We escaped with the Tidwells one afternoon and went shopping and stopped for tacos - this was the view from the restaurant.
Look how pretty the water is....and that cute Emi.
Emi slept in the back of the truck with some of her friends each night...talk about a slumber party!!

Can't wait until next year!!!

Fun on the Farm!

2009-10-26T14:44:00.000-07:00

Josh has been studying farms at preschool and I was lucky enough to go with him on a field to to Superstition Farms....a HUGE dairy farm just a couple of miles from our house a couple of weeks ago....

This is his teacher helping his pet the donkey.
Josh was very cautious of the animals -- loved them from a distance. I was only able to get him to feed the animals food out of his hands once.
A little bunny rabbit was much safer to pet. So soft!

The kids ate treats of ice cream and flavored milk.

A happy boy....who was not happy to go home when it was over. It took bribing him with McDonalds to get him to leave. What a fun morning!

All About Jeff....

2009-10-25T11:41:00.000-07:00

Do I have other children? Just kidding....
I would be remiss if I didn't go back and mention Jeff turning 14 on August 30th and 10 days later becoming our first EAGLE SCOUT! Wooo hooo...way to go Jeff. We're so proud of the young man he is - honest, brave, clean, trustworthy, etc. On top of that, he's wanting to do more in scouting, so last weekend Steve took he and his good friend Logan to be inducted into The Order of the Arrow....so he's now an OA member. Steve signed up to be an Assistant Chief in the Chapter. We're currently in the process of planning Jeff's Eagle Court of Honor....stay tuned for an official date.

Long Lost Blogger Returns......

2009-10-25T11:15:00.000-07:00

So after disappearing for 2 months, I have a new goal to update the blog every Sunday -- no excuse for not doing at least that much. Keeping this family journal updated, along with keeping our connection to long distance family members is too important not to keep this blog going.

Love Jeff's tie? In late Aug/Sept., Steve was in the garage digging through boxes looking for his old scout shirts and stumbled across his dad's bow ties (4 of them) he wore in his early days. Jeff thought they were 'the bomb" and has been wearing them to church EVERY Sunday since then. Perhaps they'll become his new trademark...how knows. But I thought grandpa Hartman might enjoy seeing a picture....

Look Who's 9!!!

2009-08-24T08:54:00.000-07:00

We certainly had a busy week last week. Two days after school started, Emi celebrated her 9th birthday! She decided this year she just wanted a little family party - so that's what she received!

Emi and her triple layer fudge cake she requested...yummy!
Make a wish! She said her wish was to have her own Zune (it's like an I-Pod).

And it's just what she got! She was sooooo happy! (Can you tell?)

Then we went bowling for about 2 hours. We all had so much fun!

Josh had fun cheering for EVERYONE. His favorite thing to do was watch the balls come out of the machine after someone bowled.
Josh was even able to bowl -- and had to carry the ball and put it on the rack himself! (Don't worry, it only almost fell on his foot once.)

What a great day! Thanks for sharing it with your family, Emi!

First Day of School....

2009-08-19T21:42:00.000-07:00

Someday I'll be caught up on my blogging, but for now, I'm pleased to announce the kids started school last Monday (Aug. 10). So far so good -- we had fun this summer, but I was ready to get back into a routine.

Josh is in a preschool class...and of course rides a bus -- still loves it!
Smartie Joseph (who claims his teacher needs to stop giving him 'baby kindergarten work' is in FIRST grade.
Cutie Emaree is in 4th grade -- (wow, already?)
Starr is in her last grade of Elementary school -- 6th grade. She is fortunate enough to have tons of friends in her class too.
My big 8th grader, Jeff, wasn't in a posing mood -- so this is the best shot we got. He received a new bike for an early b-day present and was ANXIOUS to ride it to school. It's been a few years since he's had a working bike, and enjoys his new found freedom (especially riding to QT freedom).

Farewell to Summer of 09'!

2009-08-11T10:18:00.000-07:00

Well, technically, summer isn't over. But since school started on Monday, it may as well be. Just thought I'd review some of our summer highlights....it went by so quickly!

**Loved our trip to Moab at the beginning of summer!

**My cousins, the Johnson, invited us to Prescott during the 4th of July. How could we refuse getting out of the heat and heading over to beautiful cool Prescott! We had so much fun hanging out with them and Steve's commentary during the parade was immensely entertaining. They've invited us to make this a yearly tradition with them -- how could we refuse!

Yummy berries Joseph picked...and ate....and picked....and ate....
Cousin Bert teaching Emi how to make flower necklaces....

Joseph sitting with cousins waiting for the parade to begin!
Starr, Jessica, and Emi ...waiting...and waiting.....
My aunt Jackie and Mignon say "HELLO"!!!

**Also, during the summer, Jeff took some golfing lessons and was practing his skills on the course at least once a week.
Jeff looks a little like Tiger Woods in the picture, doesn't he?

**Aaahhh....can't forget the Eagle Project....the summer long on-going project of Jeff's. This kept us plenty busy with Jeff and I out soliciting donations from businesses plenty of hot afternoons and then Steve and I hounding him to finish it before school starts! Almost done... he's having a hard time getting a hold the hosp. coordinator to drop them off, but is almost finished with his write-up. With any luck he'll be an official Eagle Scout by mid-September.

**Last, but not least....our trip to San Diego to see my sister and her family. The trip my kids look forward to the VERY MOST!!! They really do adore their cousins that live there -- okay, and the beach!

The "boy party" the boys plan and do every year....Krispy Kreme donuts were the featured attraction.

Now the "girl party"...chocolate dipped goodies and soda.

We LOVED Uncle Tim's tacos!!!!

The kids swimming at my sister's pool!

And we spent one afternoon park-hopping. This is Starr jumping up catching bubbles.

Tate and Jeff
Starr's riding in on a wave. (Personally, you couldn't get me in that water -- it was freezing!)

Fun in playing in the sand.
This is what Joseph spent most of his time doing. A boy's paradise!

Jeff's eagle project

2009-06-23T16:01:00.000-07:00

This is Jeff.

I am collecting items to put together Personal Care Kits for Phoenix Children’s Hospital for my Eagle Project. These kits are given to the parents when their children are unexpectedly checked into the hospital for an extended stay. I will be collecting items for the next three weeks if you would like to contribute any of the items below please contact me.

Items for Personal Care Kits

Toothbrush
Toothpaste (travel size)
Deodorant (large or travel size)
Shampoo (travel size – or hotel bottle)
Bar of soap
Comb or Brush
Disposable Razor
Lotion (travel size or hotel bottle)
Quart size zip-lock bags

Optional Items (all travel size)
Hair conditioner
Hair spray
Shaving cream

Moab Trip!

2009-06-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

Our big summer trip was heading up to Moab to visit my parents and to show my kids where I spent MANY summers growing up. You never know what the June weather will bring since it's a desert climate, but we lucked out and had the most PERFECT weather -- the hottest it got was mid 80's with lows in the 60's. Perfect for dragging all these kids on lots of hiking trails.

Our first hike was at Arches National Park. We decided to hike to Delicate Arch FIRST -- getting the hardest one over with. And actually, it's the most beautiful and famous one also -- the same arch seen on all the Utah license plates. It was 3 miles round trip -- but seemed MUCH LONGER, especially since we're taking along a 3 year old!

Joseph and Jeff starting up the trail.Taking a water break....we're almost there!
We made it!
As we rounded the corner...Starr was mumbling how it better be worth it! Then as soon as it came into view, she yells, "THAT WAS TOTALLY WORTH IT!"
Delicate Arch!

We were relieved our next arch was .2 miles round trip. Whew? That's a nothing'...we can manage that. It's called Skyline Arch.

The kids loved all the rocks to climb.

Balance Rock.
Our day trip ended at the Visitor Center. And boy, were we wiped out!

Every time we visit, my parents take us up on the MOUNTAIN close by. It's so gorgeous up there and NORMALLY a nice reprieve from the heat. This time it was soooo COLD. Maybe not cold...just a little COOL. But we always have a great time in the tall trees...the kids played hide and seek, and we enjoyed the nice cool fresh air. After our picnic, Steve took took the kids on the 2 mile hike down to the lake.

Grandpa and Jeff...
Starr's having fun!

The boys at the Lake.

The view by the lake was gorgeous!

Grandma enjoying eating watermelon with the kiddos.

They have great parks in Moab -- perfect for laying around on REAL GRASS and RELAXING!
I think all my kids learned how to play Frisbee....and got pretty good too!

The little boys enjoyed throwing rocks in this stream near the park.
My dad lives down the street from the movie theatre....so my family was excited to see UP was playing while we were visiting.

We had so much fun at Arches National Park, we did even more hiking a couple of days later....so here are some random hiking pictures.

Joshua insisted on taking this picture....

Yep, on my shoulders at Windows Arch......

This is Double Arch...where they filmed the beginning of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. (We had to watch it at my dad's house after we hiked it.)
Sand Dune arch was sooo cool...and tucked away in these rocks. The sand was so fine and was everywhere. My little boys were wishing they had brought their buckets and shovels.
Posing under Sand Dune Arch.
MORE and MORE rocks to climb (oh ya, they were loving this)!
We had such a wonderful time. And amazingly didn't even see the whole park -- we have an entire section yet to explore in a couple of years (more advance hiking -- so it will be good when Josh is older). My dad took Jeff golfing one morning while we were there and now created a monster -- the golfing bug has bit him. Another big thanks to my dad and Ruth for hosting us and for those AWESOME dinners. Such great memories were made!

8 Things

2009-06-21T08:00:00.001-07:00

See Shari....I can play along. You probably doubted me, didn't you? Besides, these are good things to know for a family journal.

8 favorite TV Shows
The Office
American Idol
Medium
Rachel Ray
Wipeout
Most anything on HGTV
Most anything on Food Network
Late Night with Conan (sometimes)

8 Things I Did Yesterday
Went to Sams Club
Purchased a twin bed
Moved Jeff into his own room
Organized Josh's and Joseph's room
Ate pizza with my family
Unpacked the last suitcase from our trip
Listened to 10 kids playing in the house
Worried over whether we'll make it to our Family Reunion next summer

8 Favorite Restaurants
Outback
Gecko Grill
Costa Vida
Olive Garden
Daves Farm Grill
Rubio's
In and Out Burger
DK's (in Ephrata)

8 Things I am Looking Forward To
A quiet day with my family (today)
School Starting
Seeing who my kids new teachers are
Jeff's Eagle Project ending
Going up to Prescott for July 4th!
Seeing my sister in San Deigo next month!
Josh finally getting potty trained
Some family visiting (anyone?)

8 Things on My Wish List
My closet organized
More time to get stuff done during the day
My baby to talk more
Garage cleaned and organized
New carpet
A new vehicle
My closet organized
Job security for my husband

Eight People I Tag
Terri
Kre
Chrisine
Barbara
Heather
Crystal
Callie
Julie

Reappearance!

2009-06-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

I'm back! I know...since school's been out, it's been crazy ... and family has been reminding me they need updates! So here it is. I even uploaded my camera card in hopes of discovering some interesting stuff. This is all I have folks .....

Well, there's the slip and slide we got out for Memorial Day weekend --- and in one short day totally killed the grass underneath it -- so we won't be doing that again anytime soon!

Josh's version of "sliding"...ha ha!

We finally have time to get out the Rock Band again --- and since this picture was taken, the boys ALL have buzz hair cuts.

Last but not least....Starr's dance recital was at the end of May. Her entire recital was based off of the movie Oliver Twist, so this was a song she performed for it...it was wonderful! (Starr is wearing a tan vest -- and is dancing with her BFF, Janae.)

My kids are so fun this summer -- I was telling a few people this week that I wish I could just freeze all of their ages. Finally, I don't feel like the entertainment committee constantly, we either have friends over or they are hanging out with friends. Even my 2 little boys seem entertained enough.

Watch for more updates soon as we have some good stuff coming up this summer....such as:

Jeff's Eagle Project (he'll be soliciting help as soon as he gets the rest of his approval signatures -- but at least write-up is done!)

A family trip to Moab, Utah -- I should be packing since we leave in the morning!

Some potty training -- Starr and her friends have been working on that with Josh for me.

San Diego --- my kids look forward to this trip the most (hummm...cousins and the beach...fun fun fun).

I haven't even started my count down to school starting --- that's good for me. You'll know when you see it that I've officially had it! Happy Summer Everyone!

A Home Run Season!

2009-05-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

WE DID IT! We're still around to report we survived 4 kids on 4 different softball/baseball/t-ball teams...and once again, this is a picture of my view during the past 2 months (in general...it's actually been 4 different locations).

We've enjoyed it....although it became tricky to juggle 7-8 games Monday-Thursday on top of school and church activities --but with the help of friends and family we managed just fine. (We actually recruited many of the kids friends to sign-up to play ball so carpooling was a huge bonus!)

Jeff seemed to play much better being in a more 'relaxed' league. He was even able to pitch some games.

Starr and her best friend, Janae played on the same team together. Go Red Devils!

Emi was the lucky one whose turn it was to have her dad coach her team. Next year he'd like to coach Starr's team. I think Steve was just happy their shirts weren't pink this year.

And poor Joseph. Everytime I went to his game, I'd forget my camera. He was adorable playing t-ball....but grew tired of it near the end of the season. His last game he decided he was bored with the whole game and decided to hit the ball and play outfield LEFT-HANDED....he sure had his coach confused.

And these are our cheerleaders!!!!

Until next season!!! Bring it on!!!!!!!

Transition.....

2009-05-15T21:09:00.000-07:00

We didn't even realize Josh was old enough to move out of his crib until last week, at his INSTANCE, informed us he no longer wanted to sleep there. He communicated to us (a bit tricky) he wanted to sleep in his brother's room. So immediately that same evening, we moved the toddler bed from the garage into the boys room --- he was so excited! He did great the first night...however, the second night and third night I would come into boys room to check on them and this is what I would find....
Poor Joseph, he's such a good sport and so patient with little brother.

I Give Up!

2009-04-23T14:55:00.001-07:00

Josh has been going to preschool for a couple of months now...and since his 2nd week of school, has become obsessed with school buses. Making the 15 minute drive to his school and coming home, he points out to me EVERY bus. And usually when he points to a bus, he says "me". And to top it off, he has a toy bus he has to carry with him on his lap on the way to school. See what I mean...completely obsessed! So with only 4 weeks of school left, I finally gave in and beginning last Monday, allowed the bus to pick him and and bring him home (it's at my doorstep). It was heart wrenching the first day -- but he is SOOOO EXCITED. Loves it....and I'm just discovering what to do with all this free time at home -- for the time being, it's been helping a friend pack up her scrapbooking store, and laundry laundry laundry. Can't wait to see what next week brings!

Happy Birthday, Steve!

2009-04-19T20:46:00.000-07:00

So tired of birthdays, but we managed to pulled ourselves up and have one more celebration for Steve on Thursday. We decided to just have a small family party with his favorite and requested EVERY year pineapple upside cake....so with a night off from mutual and ball games, he just wanted to play Rock Band with the family and chillax!

Saturday night we went out to dinner with friends to celebrate AGAIN.... these pics are taken with my phone.

The ice cream dessert!

Starr's 11th B-Day!

2009-04-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

It doesn't seem like that long along ago, our little Starr was just a baby...she's grown up so quickly and is blossoming into a beautiful young lady.

This year for her birthday, she decided she wanted us to take she and 6 of her best girlfriends to the drive-in to see the newly released HANNA MONTANA MOVIE! We loaded up our van and our truck with her friends and all of our own family and ventured out on a cool rainy Saturday. Knowing earlier they had Easter festivities planned, we arrived 3 hours early and ate pizza, watched Starr open presents and then went to the main area where the theatre had FREE train rides, a jumping house, games, magician, bunny walking around, and balloons. It's like they did my party for me -- and for free! And because it was cooler than normal -- there was hardly anyone there....it was awesome!

Once the movie started, we filled the back of the truck with blankets and sleeping bags and let the girls have that area while my family took the van. Every time Hanna Montana would start singing, they would get up and start dancing....so cute. What a fun age! Starr said it was her 'best birthday ever'!

The group of girls eating pizza...

Starr really really wanted a Yo Gabba Gabba Cake (go figure....)
She's a happy girl!
Getting ready to open presents....
Yes! Yo Gabba Gabba toys!!!

Now to play.....rides on the train were first on the list....however, they rode over and over and over again! The Easter Bunny rode with the girls most of the time.

The EB posing with 2 of Starr's friends.
I had to FORCE Starr to pose with him -- she tried to avoid him most of the time.
Steve's having way too much fun! What a good sport!
My kids playing this game -- pick a duck and see what prize you win!
Starr and Josh in the jumping house!
The girls settled in the back of the truck getting ready to watch the movie!
The boys set to watch the movie, also.

Three Years Old!

2009-04-06T21:38:00.000-07:00

My BIG BOY (so he thinks), Josh, turned 3 yesterday. And NO people....this does not mean it's time for another one. Joshua is absolutely wonderful and makes the perfect LAST child. Besides that, we can hardly keep up with the ones we have have.

So Sunday was the big day, we celebrated Spongebob style, of course! The Urie's came over and joined us for cake and presents after the afternoon conference session.

He has been practicing his 'blowing' all year long for this moment!

We love ya Joshua!

Ephrata Anniversary Trip Highlights

2009-04-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

I really need to finish getting this trip blogged....ball game practices have started and my life has become crazy, which is only going to get worse. So hopefully this is it!

Of course, no trip to Ephrata is complete without a trip to DK's restaurant....where we scarfed down huge burgers, onion rings, tarter sauce, etc. It's our favorite place and usually first stop when we're in town. Jeff and Jessica enjoyed it -- along with all of us!

Grandpa and Terri are fed well.

Here we are eating yet again.... On Friday late afternoon, we reserved a room at Time-Out Pizza where family and close friends from out of town had a place to gather and eat dinner before the reception that evening. It was sooo fun and the pizza was wonderful!

THE BIG NIGHT! The reception at the Ivy Chapel was a success. Steve's sister, Terri was the brains behind the operation while the rest of us helped her out. It really was beautiful. Here's the happy couple celebrating 50 years!

Standing in line with Steve's mom was her original maid of honor from her wedding.

Emi's job was clearing tables -- she did a nice job.

Starr's job was sitting at the sign-in table. This is a rare glance at her actually sitting there.
Barbara had her actual wedding dress displayed. It was so beautiful!

My sister-in-law Kreanna and her daughter Aleigha. Something must have been funny -- can't remember what it was!

Joseph --- "See mom, it's only water THIS time."
Steve and Starr standing near the receiving line.
Jon, Terri and Aunt Ronnie

Taking time to enjoy some cake.

The wedding cake. It was really gorgeous.

THE FOLLOWING MORNING....
Steve and Jeff ran in the Canal Caper 10k .... an annual race Ephrata has that Steve used to run in while he was HS. It was so fun for him this year to actually run with his son! Jeff's goal was run it in less one hour...his time was 56 minutes. Steve was about 20 minutes later....

Our good friend, Mike Perry, from our days in Montana, came over (he lives near Spokane) to cheer Steve on and to spend part of the day with us.

One of the last things we did while there was to visit the cemetery and the grave site where our sweet Amanda is buried. The cemetery is much prettier during the summer when the grass is green.

What a great trip. It was so fun to re-connect with family members and friends. Looking back, we're so happy we went and can't think of a thing we would change -- except for perhaps left Arizona earlier in the week so we could have had a longer stay!

Snow Fix - SOLVED!

2009-03-29T21:43:00.001-07:00

I know for most of you across the country, you're sick of seeing snow! But we in Arizona, specially my children, have been whining all winter long about not being able to go up north and play in the snow. So after we finished our sight-seeing day in Seattle during spring break, we headed out of town and were driving across the beautiful Snoqualmie Pass and we see TONS of snow. We stopped at a recreation area on the summit and found a perfect place for us to play. (Everyone except for poor Josh who was asleep in the van.) Fortunately, it was only 6pm and still light outside. It was an unexpected surprise for the kids!

Mounds of snow everywhere to climb on from the snow plows.

I'm trying my best to work on a little snowman. My "gloves" are actually socks we all pulled from your suite cases.
Our work of 'art' finished -- the kids were wet and cold after 30 minutes and ready to leave!

Emerald City Side Trip....

2009-03-27T21:58:00.000-07:00

With plans to go to Ephrata, Washington during our spring break for Steve's parent's 50th wedding anniversary celebration, we had already booked plane tickets into Seattle for earlier in the week and decided we needed to spend ONE day there to show the kids the highlights of this beautiful city! Steve and I spent our honeymoon in Seattle 18 years ago to the day there. My other memory of Seattle is not so pleasant. This was the city where Amanda received treatment for her cancer at the Seattle Children's Hospital -- for 6 weeks during June/July she and I lived at the Ronald McDonald House and once in a while we'd be able to venture out and see the city.

As quick as it was, this was a much more pleasant trip.

Oh man, Josh was the best on the plane....just give him a DVD player with Spongebob and some snacks and he's a happy guy. Next to him Steve and I sat TOGETHER ...what a treat! Usually, we have to divide up with kids sitting between us and I'm usually holding a lap child. The other 4 kids divided into 2's and sat across from us. They were all so good.

From the airport, we drove to our friends, Mark and Erica's house where we spent the night. They have been close friends of ours FOREVER -- almost forever. Steve and Mark were roommates at Ricks -- and we all got close again and when Mark married Erica and we lived in Ephrata. They saved my sanity many times while I was in Seattle with Amanda. We take every chance we can to see them anytime we're up north.

It's really fun that they have 5 kids close to our kids ages. Our girls really hit it off. The day after we arrived, we all headed to our first stop ... the SPACE NEEDLE. We have a small statue of it at home and my kids were excited to see it in person.

Mark and Steve

The top of the Space Needle -- poor Josh wasn't tall enough to scope out the city.

What a gorgeous view!

It was COLD AND WINDY up there!! burrrrrr

Taking a break....

And of course we can't leave Seattle without riding the MONORAIL! I tried to convince my kids it was as fun as a roller coaster -- they didn't buy it.

And what trip would be complete without a stroll from the monorail down to the famous Pikes Place Market. Thanks to Marks parents meeting us there, we ate our way through it. Yummy stuff!

The boys sitting on the gold pig -- hey, where's the girls?

One last picture of all the kids before we take off on our 3 hour drive to Ephrata. Thanks Mark and Erica and family -- it was an absolutely wonderful day!

Say CHEESE!

2009-03-25T15:28:00.000-07:00

I know I still need to post our Spring Break pictures....and I will, but I needed to quickly post Starr getting her braces put on this morning.

Why is it braces seem to make kids look older...and adults look younger?

Eighteen Years and Counting!!!

2009-03-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

So, does it make us old when Steve and I are both at Scout Committee Meeting this morning and we're talking about how our anniversary is coming up and low and behold, thanks to our fellow committee members reminding us of the date today -- we then realize it's actually TODAY. I guess you had to be there, but they got a kick out it!

Family BBQ

2009-03-15T21:30:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, we had a family BBQ to celebrate...I guess to celebrate...my mom and Paul visiting from Wyoming....ummm...my dad and Ruth buying a house down the street from me....ummmm...the kids starting spring break...ummm....my husband still having a job. Well heck, who needs a reason...we just like to all get together and gab once in a while.

My brother showing off on roller-blades...ya whatever! I can do that -- just don't ask me to try and stop.My most favorite uncles, aunt and cousins!
My mom, bryce and Heidi -- ya, the sun was in their eyes....I'm cruel!
Jim, Aunt Jackie, and mom!
And my most favorite and cutest cousin, MIGNON!!

One Down....

2009-03-06T06:03:00.000-08:00

....with one to go! Jeff finally got braces put on yesterday. Starr is scheduled to have her's put on right after SPRING BREAK. Steve and I thought it might kinda be fun to have them be miserable together --- you know the saying, misery loves company. Besides, some good ol' fashion sibling rivalry may even encourage them to take even better care of their braces. I know what you're thinking....and knowing what braces cost these days...NO, we did not win the lottery. Close, we discovered the Ortho/Dental School just a few miles away. The facility is awesome...people awesome....and I can still use my insurance too.

How's Jeff feeling? Not bad yesterday. Today....SORE.
I tried to get him to give me a decent smile for the picture to post, but this was all I could get!

Silly Girls!

2009-02-27T21:45:00.000-08:00

Ever go to upload your pictures on the computer and find some strange stuff? That was my recent experience....and boy, did I get a kick out of it! So this is Starr's punishment -- nah...I'm kidding, she gave me permission to post this. I only wish the lighting was better. I thought the funniest part was Emi trying so hard to imitate Starr.... girls girls girls.

Growing Up!

2009-02-24T20:19:00.000-08:00

Joshua finally qualified for the Amanecer preschool program with the Gilbert School District last week (due to his speech delay) and started his very first day of school Monday.....ahhhhhh
He has been so excited -in a very non-verbal sort of way. He really did seem to somewhat understand what was happening. It was so fun to go shopping with him to pick out his new backpack -- I had no idea they made them sooo small!

What a sweet guy...already to leave for school!

Crap, I forgot to feed him lunch at home before we left...good thing it's a good 10 minute drive there!

Taking one last look -- I see a bit of hesitancy. And there were only a FEW tears (from both of us).

This is his ENTIRE class. They just opened up a new classroom last week and hired a new teacher. So right now there's only a teacher (the redhead), an aide, and one other little girl. The teacher said she's hoping to have around 5 kids by spring break and the class will eventually top out at 10 kids.

What did I do with part of my free afternoon? Went to lunch with my good friend, Julie, of course! She always makes me laugh!

I had to take a picture of this sign because between Julie and I, we have 10 kids...and I think this is the first time in 10 years we've ever gone out together "childless"....so as we walked into the restaurant we started laughing because the ONE TIME we bring no kids we see this.....figures!
Oh, and I show up to pick of Josh and there's a firetrucks, ambulance, a half dozen police cars and policemen all over the playground. Pretty much scared me half to death to drive up to this. Come to find out something had happened to someone in the area and had to be transported by ambulance to the school because the school yard was the only place big enough to land a medical helicopter for this person to be airlifted. No kids from the school could leave until this was done (and it was well after 3pm)....so I waited and waited and waited.....

But he survived and LOVED it! His teacher is determined to get him to talk -- and I love her optimism....more power to her!

Colors of the Rainbow!

2009-02-24T07:13:00.000-08:00

My blogging has seriously been slacking lately....I'll try to do better....just prepare yourself for the mundane...like this post.

I just discovered Bountiful Baskets...I've lived here for YEARS and just barely found out about them -- what gives? Anyway, you bring your own laundry basket to your closest pick-up location (ours is the city park down the street) and you transfer the basket of goodies to your own basket. It's strictly a volunteer organization and I was amazed with all I brought home for a mere 15 bucks! These baskets however are nearly over flowing with produce. Of course you have to order and pay online (before a certain deadline) and be on time for the EARLY pick-up on a Saturday morning (the loss of sleep is worth it, believe me). But it's perfect for my family of relatively non-picky eaters...they were so excited. Oh, and you never know what you're going to get each time -- they just say it's 50% fruit, 50% veggies....a surprise basket -- how fun is that!??

Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary!

2009-02-13T08:16:00.000-08:00

A very long time ago....50 years exactly to this date...there once was a couple who was brave enough to be married on the superstitious date of Friday the 13th. Legend has it that these 2 are still happily married to THIS DAY!

These 2 are truly amazing people! I feel privileged to have had them in my life for the past 20 years. Steve is a large of part of who he is because of them. They are wonderful examples and we couldn't have asked for more supportive parents. Even though they live thousands of miles away, they make it a priority to be at every baptism, baby blessing, or any other special event in our family.

Next month (our spring break), our family will head up to Washington to celebrate with family and friends the 50th anniversary of this marriage! Steve and I can both remember attending each one of our grandparents 50th wedding anniversaries and we both remember what a special event each one was and we're so grateful our children will have their own memories of this special occasion with their own grandparents!

So, here’s to you two, George Philip and Barbara Allene Hartman! May you continue to be blessed in your posterity and have many more days of health and fun!
Oh, I checked to see if that “Shot Gun Wedding” at Raw Hide, Arizona at Dad’s 70th birthday party bash was legal and binding in all 50 states, including Puerto Rico…………………..it is.

They're off!

2009-02-05T20:54:00.000-08:00

The training wheels, anyway! Jeff took them off Joseph's bike this afternoon and then Joseph got on his bike and just zoomed off! He even knew how to use the breaks. No need to run beside him so he wouldn't fall off or anything....talk about ready!
Guess I underestimated him.....
Steve liked being right about this one.
I hate it when that happens.

Sunny Afternoons.....

2009-02-04T20:45:00.001-08:00

Some of you are complaining I haven't blogged in a while...well, it's been pretty uneventful around here -- so I just thought I'd record (for journaling sake) how I spend most afternoons between 3-5pm.

I usually sit right here in my front yard and watch my little kids play in our extended front yard...otherwise known as....the church parking lot.

Just a bunch of cuteness they are and so happy to be outside playing!
Joseph BADLY needs his training wheels taken off...but not sure if he has the confidence yet to handle it. Or maybe I'm just too lazy to teach him. Yep, that's probably it. That will be a later post!

And this little guy waits by the door anxious to get outside and play when the kids come home from school -- his short legs don't quite reach the pedals on his Diego trike -- so he rides it "Flintstone style" and is pretty darn fast, too!

And if I get REALLY lucky, Starr and her cute friends show up on their Ripstiks! They are usually traveling through the neighborhood....

I need to appreciate the convenience of sitting in front of my house while I can because in 6 weeks, 4 of the kids will start softball/t-ball/baseball until May...and then my sitting location changes! But, I love this time of year....I need to enjoy it while I can....because before I know it the HEAT will arrive!!!!

Oh and totally off the subject.....Josh needed some dental work done -- we couldn't decide between gold or silver...but thought the silver looked best.

Just kidding...fake teeth.

On Track for Eagle.....

2009-02-04T20:43:00.000-08:00

Jeff had a Boy Scout Court of Honor on Thursday night where he received more merit badges and his Life rank. He's now officially finished with all of his required merit badges and only has his project left to do...but first he needs to find one -- (I think this is the hardest part) and he's finding out that the right hospital workers for him to talk to are hard to get ahold of. (So if anyone out there has contacts with Phoenix Children's or Desert Banner let us know). For the next little while, I'm serving as our ward Eagle Specialist, so Jeff and I are learning about this process together!

New Tag!

2009-01-13T21:17:00.000-08:00

I got this tag from my friend Cheryl. It's a little disturbing....really.

Okay, this is what you do...
Google...your name and the word "needs"...for me that would be "Teresa needs", for you that means insert your own name....write 10 of them, if you choose.

1. Teresa needs to lay off the sauce! (Oh my...and this was the first one, too!)
2. Teresa needs you. (Yes, all of you!)
3. Teresa needs one more miracle to become a saint. (Yes..well, what more can I say?)
4. Teresa needs to quit trying so hard to "not just be a pretty face." (LOL)
5. Teresa needs to make hard business decisions to keep the cash flowing . (Yes, I do!)
6. Teresa needs our support.
7. Teresa needs your prayers.
8. Teresa needs to buy 4 new tires for her car. (I really don't)
9. Teresa needs to find herself again. (um...sure, why not?)
10. Teresa needs to find some good drivers. (In Arizona? Good luck.)

Actually, that was pretty fun....and quite interesting. Anyone else wanna give it a try?

Josh's Best Friend!

2009-01-07T19:20:00.000-08:00

Well, Josh has attached himself to a new friend, or should I say toy, a few weeks ago and will not allow it to leave his sight. Yep, it's Santa...or as Joshua calls him in his own slowly growing vocabulary "ho ho ho". He sleeps with him, eats with him, rides on his trike with him...you name it...they're buddies. And in his own true Steve's son way, "ho ho ho" even sings "Jingle Bells" in SPANISH. Gotta love those 2 year olds! I wonder how long this will last. Perhaps in April his new comfort toy will be an Easter Bunny. I'll keep you posted.

San Diego

2009-01-01T17:19:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks home with kids warranted a quick trip to San Deigo last week. My 14 year old nephew, Tate, is THANKFULLY at the end of his intense chemo treatments (for bone cancer) that puts him in the hospital often and for several days at a time, so with that said, our family was going to visit during New Years, but Tate was scheduled for his LAST chemo treatment during that same time, so we bumped it up and left immediately after Christmas so he would be at home. But this meant, we had to leave Steve behind to finish year end inventory at work. I actually don't think he minded the quiet house for a few days...and I know he did go see several movies. My brother and his wife caravaned over with me -- so we had a houseful of people at my sisters -- 14 in all. My kids absolutely ADORE their San Diego cousins and have been bugging us for months to visit. With only 2 full days there, and Tate's immune system running low, we just hung out at her house and let the kids PLAY. They were in heaven.

We played lots of Guitar Hero World Tour.....

This is Tate -- I thought he looked great --- if it wasn't for his pale skin and bald head, you wouldn't even know he was fighting cancer.

I was able to take our truck down, so I loaded up their Christmas bikes and ripstiks for them to enjoy!

This is me with my sister Crystal and little brother Bryce.

The boy cousins -- man, they have so much fun together.

Cooper trying to push Joshua....

Everytime we get together the boys would plan a "party" -- pull their money and buy lots of snacks and sit in a room and play video games.

And while the boys played at their party, the girls would dress up and have a "tea party"....complete with little sandwiches and fancy chocolates.

We're all wishing their family a fun time in Florida at the end of this month for Tate's Make-A-Wish trip to the SUPER BOWL and side trip to Disney World. Can't wait for pictures. Wow, what are the chances of 2 sisters being able to compare Make-A-Wish trips...pretty pathetic if you ask me. We'll be counting down to July when we can visit again -- and bring Steve along with us!

December Dizziness....

2008-12-30T21:36:00.000-08:00

My hope was to finish getting December blogged before the month (and year) ended. Looks like I'm just making it! I wanted to record some of our Christmas memories now that the madness has calmed down and I can actually look back at the pictures and smile and think...maybe I can do this again next year. I know these things mean a lot to my children, so that makes it all worthwhile for Steve and I.

A family in our ward invited us to go on a caroling hayride with them for Family Home Evening a couple of weeks ago. It was a chilly evening -- raining somewhat, but hard to tell until we would shake off the umbrella and see all of this water come off of it. But since we have no snow here, it made it feel all the more festive.

Another Sunday prior to Christmas was spent decorating gingerbread houses....one for the girls, one for the boys. We also had fun decorating some gingerbread people also. I think Josh had the most fun - mainly eating all of that candy.

Now look at these 2 matching smiles....see why we call him "chompers"?

Painting Christmas cookies is another tradition my family WILL NOT allow us to do without. Steve's mom did this activity with he and his siblings growing up, so now my kids are sharing the same kind of fun. This is so smart -- you put egg yokes in individual bowls and then add food coloring...this is the paint used to paint the sugar cookies once they are cut out. We also use sprinkles for extra embellishment. Then bake and DONE! Each child then picks out their most beautiful painted cookie to leave for Santa on Christmas Eve.

Steve's sister, Terri, and her family hold an annual Christmas Eve Party that my family looks forward to attending every year. We all bring a favorite appetizer to share for dinner and then we break a pinata - the Christmas Eve pinata tradition was started by Steve when he was in H.S. Then we proceed to the all-so-popular white elephant present game. And finish the evening with a reading of the Christmas story in Luke and cherry cheese pie. Most of the time, we're done by 8pm so we can get the kiddies home and ready for bed before Santa arrives.

Terri was tired of the pinatas breaking so quickly so she decided to make her own this year. Her pride and joy!

Waiting for the white elephant game to begin!

Actually, on Christmas Eve, we had a slumber party at my house consisting of my sister, Katie, and my newlywed brother Bryce and new bride, Heidi. None of them wanted to make the early drive in the morning (my brother lives in Maricopa) - wanting to be up to see my kids first wake up. My parents are also snow birds in Mesa and drove over early in the morning to arrive before the kids were up (this is their 10th year with us). So this made 12 of us Christmas morning -- let me tell you, that's ALOT of stockings for poor Santa to fill. We love the large group, even though it takes up a couple of hours to open presents. And a larger living room or family room would be nice to accommodate this crowd, but we made due! The more the merrier!

The kids all have to come down together Christmas morning....

I would say the theme this year would be bikes and ripstiks...

Then on to opening stockings and then a breakfast of Christmas breakfast casserole, cinnamon rolls, and hot chocolate.

Steve loved his new BON JOVI shirt and hat.....

And Joseph LOVED his ORANGE bike. Actually, all of the kids were happy with what Santa gave them.

So then, I guess it's Merry Christmas to all....and to all a good night! Until next year!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-23T20:59:00.000-08:00

Well, Christmas cards just did not go out this year -- for the first time in .... I don't know... a LONG time. Truth be told, I'm just not feeling it this year -- but hopefully most of those near and dear to my hear read my blog....hopefully. This month has just flown by so quickly -- and I've been having a hard time feeling that "Christmas Spirit"...but it's my own fault -- more service is on the list for next year, that always helps. That and a reminder to myself to START EARLIER AND DO LESS. I seem to forget that every year. So to all of our friends and family members, we wish you great peace and comfort in the message of this season of Christmas and thank all of you for your love and friendship.

Season Finally Over!

2008-12-14T21:05:00.000-08:00

Well, after spending the past few months coaching Jeff's basketball team, Steve gets his life back again. Their last game was Saturday night -- we don't want to talk about how many games they won or LOST for that matter....do we? Believe me, we don't want to go there. Steve says the important thing is that the boys had fun and continued to learn the fundamentals of the game. Jeff had a great season and we saw a lot of progress - okay, so Steve saw alot of progress, I'd have an opinion if I actually went to more than one game. But who feels like chasing around 4 other kids. Way to go guys!

Ward Christmas Party...

2008-12-12T21:10:00.000-08:00

I know, I'm quick. We just returned home from our Ward Christmas Party where the theme was a Country-Western Christmas. My kids are finally in bed, and I've never uploaded a video before, so I was anxious to give it a try.

Starr and several girls her age in the ward are in a clogging class together -- they performed at the party tonight and did such a terrific job.

Steve played a duet with another ward member (Bro. Hulsoff). He also did a great a job playing "The Little Drummer Boy" so well and respectfully, even through we know the rocker in him wanted to just jam out.

And of course, no Christmas party is complete without a visit from Santa (again) --- Josh wanted NOTHING to do with him this time. No candy cane in the world was worth it in his opinion.

Visits with Santa

2008-12-08T12:40:00.000-08:00

With an afternoon available on Saturday and beautiful warm weather - we decided to spend some family time at our Christmas HOA fair just a few blocks away from our house...and perfect for my budget since so much of it was FREE. An extra bonus was having pictures with Santa overwith...not that we don't enjoy it, but one less thing to have to worry about this season. My little ones were so excited....

Josh wasn't quite sure what to think. Actually, we're suprised he would even sit on Santa's lap. Don't ya just love that look on his face??

Sorry, no pictures of Jeff. He said we couldn't pay him enough money to pose with Santa.

They had a few drawings, and his is what we won. A Home Depot bucket full of an assortment of tools. Steve was thrilled. I kinda liked the wind-up flash light with built-in radio. My kids thought it was the worst prize ever! :)

Thanksgiving Weekend in Review

2008-11-30T19:27:00.000-08:00

It's been a fun 4 days....and seemed to go by so quickly.

On Thanksgiving day, my parents and sister came over for dinner. This is probably the smallest group I've hosted/or helped to host in a LONG TIME....but all the more fun. Notice my nice china....it's even green. Nothing but the good stuff for my guests. And this is the cute little "thankful tree" my kids were in charge of making. This is our 3rd year with this tradition and it gives the kids something to do while I finish up dinner. Everyone writes down on the paper leaves several things they are thankful for and then, after dinner, we read them and guess who wrote them. Pretty fun. Most of the good pictures are on my dad's camera....which I will download later.....I didn't get many since my battery was dead and my charger was MIA.

Also, right before dinner, Emaree fell down the stairs...the first set, anyway. We didn't think much of it until during dinner she kept whining about not being able to get up and get things....it wasn't until then that we finally looked at it and saw it was beginning to swell. I know....good parents....turns out it was a sprain and she stayed off of it the first day or two....and fortunately, we still had Starr's crutches from when Starr broke her foot last year on Christmas Eve, so she was using them the rest of the weekend. However, as of tonight....she seems as good as new...just in time to go back to school...hurray!

Hummm...other fun things we did this weekend... Terri (my sister-in-law) and I, of course, had to get up early, 5:00 am, Friday and do our Black Friday shopping. The crowds were minimal compared to what we were used to. And, for the first time ever, we were able to get everything on our list. My favorite find? At Macy's I found a regular priced $50 skirt - completely adorable- marked down to $5. Okay, not a gift..something for myself...hey, aren't I allowed to do that?

Family pictures were taken on Friday afternoon. Not really fun -- more nerve racking, and I'm so very glad to have it over with - I think I'd almost rather have a root canal.

Steve, Jeff along with 4 of both of their friends went to the ASU vs. UCLA football game Friday night (thanks again, Bert, for the tickets) -- Steve says one of the best games he's been to. They had such a great time! If it wasn't for the defense that scored the 4 touch downs, 2 from interceptions and the rest from fumbles, they wouldn't have won the game.

By Saturday, this head cold thing going around (and I think staying up until Midnight the night before screaming at ASU didn't help) caused Steve to feel horrible and he stayed down most of the day. He did find enough energy earlier in the day to help me move some furniture around and set up the Christmas tree. It's so nice to have most of Christmas set up. Next weekend, we'll work on the outside of the house.

We enjoyed our Sunday today -- we finished decorating our tree with the kids and had fun playing with them. Now on to the countdown to Christmas.....

Joseph's Big 6!!

2008-11-20T20:42:00.000-08:00

It's so much more fun to write about happy occasions....especially when it entails a certain adorable blond haired little boy turning the big 6 years old today! This kid knew exactly what he wanted -- from the types of gifts to how he wanted to celebrate. I love a kid who can make a decision -- no wishy washy stuff going on here.

And since my young mother journal writing ambition has gone by the wayside, I need to take a moment to record the things I love so much about my little Joseph (these reminders are good to look back on...if ya know what I mean).

**He plays sooo well with ALL of my kids -- from Jeff down to Josh. He just gets along with everyone!

**I really was disappointed when I found they had FULL day kindergarten --- he's so much fun to have at home -- not to mention great entertainment for Josh, but really --- I miss him!

**Soooo loving -- loves to give me TONS of hugs and kisses. Big time "mommy's boy" and I love it!

**No kid loves monkeys and the color orange more than this one, which makes him so unique -- not just a passing phase....it's been a couple of years now.

We love you, Joseph...you light up our lives....happy birthday, buddy!

Feeling Blue....

2008-11-15T23:20:00.000-08:00

I've dreaded this day for sometime now....

I really do okay the other 364 days, but not this one. I'm entitled to one day to feel sorry for myself, aren't I? I need at least one day to REALLY miss her, have a good cry, and even be selfishly angry. Amanda would turn 16 today. Steve and I should be taking her to get her drivers license soon, worrying about her starting to date, and dealing with the difficulties and joys of having a teenage girl, but instead we get to just grieve today. I couldn't sleep tonight --- so I came downstairs to read through her very short journal I kept for her and look through her pictures. I thought I'd share a couple of journal entries....

November 18, 1995

Amanda's 3rd birthday was on Thursday. She was up at the crack of dawn (6:30am) ready to celebrate. Grammie and grandpa made her french toast, then we got her ready for school -- mom was going with her to work at her preschool (she loves it when mom goes to school with her!) Daddy stayed home and watched baby Jeffrey. She had a great time at school - her teacher, Mrs. Green, made her a birthday crown and her class sang "Happy Birthday" to her. Then she and mom did some errands wearing her birthday crown everywhere she went so that everyone would know it was her birthday. She was thrilled about the Barney balloon at Wal-Mart I bought for her. Amanda fell asleep on the way home and dad carried her into the house and she slept for 3 hours -- very unusual for her to even take a nap. But it worked out great, I was able to decorate the dining room and bake her cake. Later Katrina came over and babysat while her dad, grandpa and I went to a ward adult dinner. She had a great time with Katrina -- as soon as we all got home around 7:30, we let her have cake, ice cream and presents. She received a lot of Lion King presents and just loved her birthday. She's been wanting to have another birthday everyday since then.

There's been such a big change in Amanda lately -- she's just acting more grown up and she plays by herself so much better. She's just talking different. Today, we were driving in the car and she told me she wanted me happy and she wanted to see me smile. What a cutie! She's just about fully pottie trained -- I'm so proud of her! She loves going to school and playing with her friends. She's so quiet at school, but at home she's just a little chatter box. She still loves her trips to the library and reading her books every night until we take them back and check her out more. She's constantly making up songs with her daddy and is developing quite the sense of humor. She talks so clearly and adores her 13 week old brother. She's the best little helper a mom could have.

Okay, I have to add one more entry...this one made me smile...

October 1, 1996 (Almost 4)

Amanda bore her testimony in Sacrament meeting yesterday for the first time. Halfway through the meeting she kept bugging her mom and dad to take her up the podium to have her turn. Her persistence paid off, and towards the end of the meeting her dad took her up to the stand to bear her testimony. She spent the first 3 minutes (literally) saying "What dad?" repeatedly every time he whispered something to her to say. She finally blurted out "I'm thankful for my primary teachers." After which, was followed by about 2 more minutes of "What dad?" She then managed to say "I'm thankful for Jeffrey." This was again followed by a couple more "What dad?" Then "I'm thankful for mommy and Jeffrey." Then you could hear Steve whisper something about being thankful for a Prophet, after which she looked at him puzzled and replied VERY LOUDLY... "I AM NOT!" She ended there. She did great for the first time! Her parents are very proud.

Sorry I have to grieve so publicly today -- but actually, I'm feeling better now. I'll spend time with my kids today talking about Amanda, and fortunately there's church and scout meetings and then dinner with my parents and siblings at my house tonight. Enough to make this day go by quickly - which is really what I need. Thank heaven for Forever Families!! I'd be a billion times worse today without that knowledge. Tonight I'll say a prayer of gratitude for the 5 wonderful years we were blessed to have her in our lives -- we miss her dearly.

Starr's New Look!

2008-11-13T18:39:00.000-08:00

Hey, this is Starr! Guess what? I got glasses! I can't believe the world looks like this! I can't believe everyone around me looks and sees the world like this. The world looks so pretty now that I can really see it! I first realized I needed glasses at the beginning of the school year. I haven't been answering many questions at school and I could not see the board. So now that I have glasses I can start doing better in school.

Who Doesn't Love a Parade??

2008-11-11T21:26:00.000-08:00

I know it already....my kids have been deprived. They have spent their whole entire short lives without ever going to a parade. Yes, even a Disney parade. I guess that's what happens when you live in a large city --- we hate to deal with the crowds and fight the traffic, so we watch on them TV. This ended today when Steve (who is serving as Assist. Scout Master) took his troop to participate in Mesa's Veteran's Day Parade -- they had the honor of marching in a group of around 185 scouts holding the picture and story of a fallen soldier from Arizona. Steve said it was so wonderful to hear the hush go across the crowd as they would pass and most would stand up to show respect.

These are the boys in our Troop 217 - what a great experience for these boys. Jeff is the one wearing blue basketball shorts -- when they told the boys they only needed to wear their scout shirts, he took it seriously. Nothing like comfort -- I'll catch that one next time.

My girls were making themselves comfortable. The weather was gorgeous...can't beat those 70's! And they were especially impressed with all the candy that was thrown. They all did pretty well for a 2 hour - lots of marching - type of parade. What a great way to spend Veteran's Day -- honoring those military persons who serve us and those who have served us so well!

Bread anyone?

2008-11-05T14:41:00.000-08:00

Okay, since my gloomy mood was continuing this morning, I dusted off my mixer after our long hot summer and decided it was the perfect day to bake some bread....thinking that perhaps it would cheer me up. The bread turned out so pretty and fluffy, and for once I didn't underbake it or overbake it...but after biting into a warm slice, I realized I FORGOT to add salt. GREAT --- so this shows how rusty my baking skills are --- what in the world am I suppose to do with all this UNSALTED bread....besides smothering it with a big slab of salted butter? Maybe my kids won't notice.....

Any ideas?

And on a cheery note --- I'm so relieved all of the marriage amendments in Arizona, California and Florida have passed. Maybe now California won't fall off into the ocean-- really, my little sister lives there and that would not be good. **snicker**

Change!

2008-11-04T21:33:00.000-08:00

Anyone else depressed out there? I gave my kids an extra long hug tonight as I was tucking them in to bed....

This quote was on Glen Beck today as he was talking with Senator Orrin Hatch....

"President Benson from the 1960s said Kruschev told him that Americans are so naive, we'll spoon socialism down their throat, you know, and over the years; before you know it, you'll raise the red flag. And here we are. We're at a point to where our country and our Constitution is slipping through our fingers."

Frightening.
Guess I'd better go work on my food storage.

Halloween Fun

2008-11-02T08:08:00.000-08:00

We made it through another exciting fun-filled Halloween. The evening was spent at our ward trunk-or-treat where the bishopric barbecued hot dogs for dinner. This ended early enough to allow the kids to trick-or-treat around the neighborhood also --- since you can't ever get ENOUGH candy!

Jeff dressed as a princess, Starr was a pirate, Joseph loved dressing as Spiderman, and Emi was an adorable black cat. Josh was another story....I tried 3 costumes on him, and each time he would kick and scream and try to pull it off. He then proceeded to pull me upstairs to Joseph's closet and pointed out to me a tropical theme Sponge Bob shirt he wanted to wear. OF COURSE! Needless to say, the 2 year old won!

We're never quite sure what costume Steve's going to throw on until right before we leave. And when the kids walk by to get their candy, he enjoys taking to them with a strange accent --- many of the small kids will avoid our trunk all together -- a little scared of him, I believe.

Joseph with is best friend, Reese.

Josh wasn't sure about this whole idea -- but soon "sweetened" up after the first couple of cars!

Steve, again! You put a wig on the guy and he really comes out of his shell! :)

And Steve's sister, Terri --- she and her daughter Jessica joined us for the fun!

The 2 "girls" .... actually Jeff and his good friend Jake.

The Newlyweds....Heidi and Bryce, aka....ASU fans....joined us also!

The best part, dumping out all the candy at home --- Josh thought he was in was HEAVEN!
Heidi and Bryce told the kids they were "quality control" to inspect the candy ...he he... having first pick of their own goodies....
...and the sugar high continues!!!!!

Tagged....

2008-10-25T21:44:00.000-07:00

I was tagged over a week ago and I'm finally getting to it. I must say....THIS IS NOT EASY...but I enjoy reading others, so I guess it's my turn.

Here are the rules...you have to list 7 random facts about yourself and then tag 7 other people at the end of your post. Okay, here we go...

1. I hate hearing people chew their food (unless I'm eating also). While growing up, I shared a room with my sisters, and my youngest sister would always come to bed with a carrot to munch on...oh man, it's like nails on a chalkboard!

2. I'm obsessed with clean feet --- I wash them every night (after I wash my face). I'd have pedicures monthly if I could afford it.

3. We've lived in our current home almost 5 years now (from moving up the street)....I grew up moving quite a bit, so the itch to move hits me often. It's just rare for me to live somewhere this long. Steve, who lived in ONE house growing up is my stabilizing force!

4. I'm a talk radio junkie....Glen Beck, Dave Ramsey, etc...I love it all. I don't know beans about music -- however, I do like to listen to it when I clean.

5. I have this administrative mind --- I love the spreadsheets, budgeting, etc. If only I were more organized. I'm working on that.

6. I spend way to much time blog hopping --- dang, it's addicting! I know if I spend less on the computer, my house would be cleaner... and I may even have more time to ORGANIZE!

7. I've never read a Harry Potter book, NOR have I ever seen a Harry Potter movie. SHOCK...I know.

Okay, now I tag Crystal, Heather S., Tiffany O, Holly D, Terri U, Kreanna H, Barb H.
Lets get crackin' ladies!!! :)

New Plan

2008-10-22T10:37:00.001-07:00

After eating my way through fall break...I may have to try this tactic....

Mexico!

2008-10-21T09:37:00.000-07:00

Hola, amigos!! Well, we survived yet another trip down to Rocky Point this year. I believe this is my family's favorite vacation, after all, what other vacation do we go on where the kids get to hang out for days on end with their closest friends. Sun sun sun....lots of sunshine, but NO wind (I hate wind) - we couldn't have asked for better weather -- except for some overcast skies while we were packing up would have been nice. Last year we did our top 10 list of things we loved about Mexico, but this year I was interviewing the kids on the way home and was going to post their favorite moments/activities, but everyone had the same favorites....riding the banana boats and staying up late playing cards with their friends. Mine and Steve's favorites were also the same -- sitting on the beach under the shade with our feet in the cool sand and visiting with our friends while watching our kids play on the beach. Aaaahhh...heaven!

Always a matter of priority to get the hair braided first thing....

Then there's the famous banana boat rides (or whale boat ride). Thanks to Bro. Loves price negotiating (or economics lesson to the boat owner), each person was charged $3/verses $5 in past years. Our large group sure kept their boats going all afternoon most days.

This is part of our large group -- colorful, aren't we? See my Joshua sitting in the sand? Everytime I would take a picture with him in it, he would shake his head and say "noooooooo" and start crying.
Emi and her cute friends...

Between everyone's contribution - we had lots of "toys" to enjoy in the water. The most popular by far, was the ocean kayak the Evans family brought along.

Enjoying the beach!

Steve and the kids did lots of snorkeling....the water was clearer than we've ever seen it!
One of my favorite memories of this trip would be with Joseph and his best friend Reese (both 5 years old) -- they are pretty inseparable. Anyway, our last day on the beach, towards the end of the day, I spot Reese all decked out in his brothers snorkeling gear...fins, snorkel, etc.) flopping to the edge of the water with Joseph following closely behind wearing a life jacket -- according to Reeses story, he was going to go snorkeling in the "deep water" and if he started drowning, Joseph would be right behind him wearing his life jacket to save him. I just couldn't get to my camera fast enough...but I laughed so hard. Cute boys. This is my only picture this year I could find I took of Reese and Joseph. Reese is the one of the wave runner with Joseph next to him on the crab.

And yep, a few sunburns were discovered. Ouch.

What a fun trip. Our many thanks to the Anderson family who coordinate this trip every year. We can't wait until next year!

Family Zoo Fun

2008-10-21T08:54:00.000-07:00

To begin our Fall Break, we spent a day at the Phoenix Zoo...we couldn't have asked for more perfect weather (in the 70's). I usually get to the zoo pretty often with my younger children, but in 10 years, Steve's only been there once, so having their dad with us made it really fun for my kids. Also, my sister, Katie, tagged along with us --- for some strange reason, loves to hang out with my kids.

For some reason, my family really enjoyed the animal statues. Perhaps we should have visited a museum instead!

Let Fall Break BEGIN!!!

2008-10-10T13:49:00.000-07:00

As you can see, my kids look very happy and relieved since officially at noon today began our Fall Break!! For those of you who don't live around here, the school district gives the kids a week off this time of year, and I LOVE IT! I never grew up with a fall break, so this is different for me, but they can add on a week at the end of school, or make the kids go a week early as long as we get this week off every year.

To begin this break, we have a family zoo trip planned for Saturday morning (rain or shine...probably rain). And then we'll be finishing the final preparations for our annual trip to Mexico on Wednesday and return home on Sunday. For those of you who don't know, we travel down to Rocky Point with around 20 other families in our ward and camp near the beach. Yep, there's a bunch of us....close to a hundred total, but we have soooo much fun and we look forward to it all year long.

Starr received a Kid of Chararacter Award at school today --- just in time, since she was feeling a little unappreciated and "invisable" at school these past few weeks. See Starr, your teacher DOES know you're awesome!

Conference Weekend!

2008-10-05T19:58:00.001-07:00

Wasn't conference good? I was listening to talk radio a little too much last Thursday and Friday and it really got me down. I couldn't wait until General Conference to get that boost I needed...and it succeeded. The talks were just excellent and were just what I needed to hear -- especially about gratitude - finding joy in our journey.....and then learning from our mistakes and doing better. I know we all hear different things - but these are the things that rang true with me. I can't wait to study them more next month.

We had the most perfect weather this weekend --- on Saturday it was cloudy all day with the temps in the high 70's...maybe low 80's. Almost chilly...hey, I said ALMOST. Anyway, it put me in the perfect baking mood -- so I rolled out a big batch of cinnamon rolls that my family almost entirely consumed at this hour. Conference and fresh cinnamon rolls -- is there a better combination? Today we had another gorgeous day -- beautiful enough to get a break from the kids once in a while since they would hang out in the backyard....because once conference ends at 3pm, it becomes a VERY LONG SUNDAY!

Starr's Strings Concert

2008-10-05T19:29:00.000-07:00

Starr really wanted me to post her first strings concert held last Thursday evening. She's playing the violin this year and is so cute...and you just can't hear "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" too many times. I didn't take my camera to the concert -- my flash stinks....but instead I took pictures while she and Janae were practicing a few minutes before they left.

Old Friends....

2008-09-26T16:29:00.001-07:00

A friend of mine flew down from Minnesota on Wednesday -- this would be the 2nd time this year seeing each other -- amazing! Ann and I were friends at Ricks College (aka, BYU-Idaho) during the late 80's. We had the same major, so most of our classes were together, and we became fast friends. We stayed close friends the entire 2 years we were there -- she was one I could go to when my roommates were driving me crazy, and we'd hang out on the weekends. She even had classes with my Steve (he and I were dating at the time) -- so we were actually all friends. We even fulfilled a big dream of ours - which was to move to SLC together after Ricks, get jobs, and PLAY -- I lasted a summer and then decided SLC was NOT for me. Ann however, stayed, and that's when we parted ways...Mary Ann (currently in my ward) was her roommate at Ricks -- and it's thanks to her I was able to get reacquainted with Ann several years also. So now, since Mary Ann and I live so close to each other (we can see each other's houses), Ann's able to visit with both of us at once when she comes down.

We went out for Mexican...(opps...Ann is closing her eyes, should have had the waitress take ONE more shot - sorry, Ann)

7th Grader Again....

2008-09-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

Wow, I am just on a posting roll....what can I say. Today the Jr. High had a 7th grade Shadow A Student day since it was just a half day. My friends all told me this was one not to miss...no matter what my 13-year old said! In fact, Jeff wasn't even too thrilled when I told him I was going -- he just told me to "not embarrass him"... who does he think I am anyway, his dad? (kidding) Let me preface by saying, I am NOT a morning person...so typically, since Jeff has A-hour Jazz band, Steve usually gets up early and makes sure he's ready and drives him to school on his way to work. So this morning, Steve and I traded places and I was up by 6am dressed and headed out the door by 6:45am with Jeff -- that in itself was amazing. And yesterday, I TRIED to talk Jeff into letting me come later in the morning, this was our conversation:
Mom: Do I really have to be at your A-hour class?
Jeff: Yes, mom. You need to get the whole experience and come to EVERY class with me.
Mom: Really, I couldn't just come after 3rd hour and get the entire experience?
Jeff: No mom. (I think he likes to torture me sometimes.)

Oh, the one great thing about A-Hour....ROCK STAR PARKING...we got an awesome spot.

And I tried to grab my camera on my way out the door -- but he wouldn't let me bring it. Imagine that.

Today was really was so much fun...and I had to pause and reflect upon my own Jr. High School days....all of which I can't remember. Honestly. I think we lived in Springfield, Missouri and then Oklahoma during that time. Really, I honestly blocked it out -- Not even a year book to look at. It must have been really bad. I hope my son has a better experience -- and from what I saw today...he has a great start!

Tagged!

2008-09-23T22:37:00.000-07:00

My friend Lisa tagged me a week ago....sorry Lisa, been busy, but I'll play along now.

Two names you go by:
1. MOM
2. Tia (when I was a child)
Two things you are wearing right now:
1. jean shorts
2. black t-shirt
Two things you ate today:
1. 1/2 of a leftover Krispy Kreme donut
2. leftover mashed potatoes
Two things you did last night:
1. work on my cub scout stuff
2. start the Eclipse book (Twilight series)
Two things you want very badly at this moment:
1. to loose 15 lbs.
2. pedicure
Last two people you just spoke to:
1. hubby Steve
2. son Jeff
Two things you're doing tomorrow:
1. shadow a student at the Jr. High
2. get together with my friend Ann and the Metcalfs
Two longest car rides:
1. Arizona to Washington state
2. Actually, any place seems long when 5 kids are in the car with me
Two favorite beverages:
1. Diet Dr. Pepper
2. Green Drink (in case my mother reads this)

Now I'm going to tag Terri U., Mignon, and Kreanna

Washington Visitors...

2008-09-23T08:51:00.000-07:00

We were fortunate enough to have had Steve's parents come down for Emi's baptism, and since they only come visit a couple of times a year, and are both retired, we had them to ourselves (almost) for almost a couple of weeks. Steve's sister, Terri and her family, only live a mile away... so what luck to have so many grandkids and kids in one close area.

Typically when they come visit, we do some fun things like the train ride to the Grand Canyon, Rawhide, etc., but we officially ran out of ideas this year...not to mention the kids were all in school, so they basically kept me company at home -- Barbara did a wonderful job keeping my laundry caught up, and Phil did an awesome job keeping my kitchen clean and doing my morning vacuuming. Steve's sister would whisk them off now and then for lunch or shopping or to just hang out with her. And not to worry, it wasn't all chores for the grandparents, we did manage to get in quite a few family dinners with extended family, a Diamondbacks baseball game, introduction to Rock Band (they didn't appreciate that as much), blogging lessons, and lots of bonding time with grandkids.

Having fun at the D-Backs Game -- they even won!

The family at Pro Bass (at least it had A/C) and the first time visit for grandpa and the kids.