bundy

Christmas Eve

2011-12-31T09:43:00.000-08:00

We have loved this Christmas Season. The first of the month wasn't so festive, but we've really made up for lost time. It has been such a blessing to spend the season with my parents and all of my mom's efforts to make the Christmas Season special. I ADORE this photo of Emma and my dad. She and my dad have such a special little bond and I know I will treasure this photo forever.

We had a great party with our family that lives in Logan. It included a great marriage trivia, yummy food, and some games in the gym. Also at this party was an ugly lamp contest. Mine and Bundy's was decorated with ugly pictures of our family, we won :)

Emma continues to be the sweetest, polite, and obedient girl there ever was. This was her gift to us this year and it just warms my heart every time I look at it.

I was all prepared for Christmas by the 23rd. Everything bought, wrapped, and placed under the tree. What a wonderful feeling. We were able to have a night out and meet up with our dear friends Jed and Carrie to celebrate Carrie's birthday. We had a great time actually enjoying a conversation without interruptions from kids.

Christmas Eve is my most favorite Holiday of the whole year. We had a quiet evening at home with just our girls and my parents, it was a refreshing change. Watching the girls play so well and be such darling sisters the whole night was the best gift I could have.

My mom and I made home made rolls in the morning and did a pop in visit to my Aunt Carol. Then we had our big turkey dinner, a spiritual program, and the girls sang a great duet.

A family tradition is that we play the thimble game while waiting for the elf to knock. I loved that Bundy finally saw the beauty in the thimble game, and it's watching the faces of your little girls as they throw water on someone or have water thrown on them, classic.

The elf knocked to let us know Santa was on his way and the girls better be asleep. They DASHED into bed and slept together for the first time. They were both asleep (faking it) before we could even close the door. Another highlight of my Christmas.

We ended the night with matching pajamas for my mom and I. Then a few rounds of rook and some delicious pie. I LOVED setting out their gifts to look just right for when the girls came down in the morning. This Christmas Eve was everything I hoped it would be.

Dress Up Queen

2011-12-24T12:42:00.000-08:00

I have LOVED volunteering in Emma's class on most Tuesdays. It's so fun to see her amongst peers. I have become really fond of some of the boys and will miss watching them show favor to Emma.

A special thanks to Pinterest for giving us this snowman idea. We made these treats for Emma to hand out to her classmates on her last day at Bates Elementary.

This quality is shameful, but it's all I have. Here we are signing the papers and closing on our house. We took the last load to the storage unit that night and then went out to Zuppas with the Litchfields and promised that we won't let an hour distance keep us from being neighbors.

Emma's last day of school. We brought her teacher her favorite drink and Emma had fun giving treats and hugs to all of her friends. I am so proud of her for how easy she has made this transition in her life. It's not easy saying good-bye or being new, especially for a 5 year old. However, I can't think of another child who is so well adjusted and can handle all this change in stride.

We had our Skeen family Christmas party down town Salt Lake this year. My parents got us hotel rooms at the Temple Square Marriott and took us out to Olive Garden. We had a photo scavenger hunt at Temple Square (hence the random photos) and then all the cousins went swimming while we added up the game points and collected our prizes. A very fun night with the family.

Sunday the girls were thrilled to open up their sister angels that Paul and DeNae sent for them. I just love my aunt and uncle and am so thankful that they have such a warm place in the hearts of my husband and children as well.

Lydia is a dress up QUEEN!!! She is changing her clothes all the live long day! It's exhausting, it truly is. However, look at that face. Isn't this what childhood is about?

SOLD!

2011-12-12T22:24:00.000-08:00

While we were in Oregon we sold our house. Not officially, but we have a firm offer on it and will be closing the 15th of December!!! This has been the home of so many happy memories and I think this will be the all time favorite chapter in my life....so far at least :) Thanks to facebook I have had a chance to get to know the new buyers and I am just tickled about the darling little family that this home will go to.

Ryan and I started a carb free diet. I know right? It's pretty intense, but it's the only way we can lose weight. So we're sticking with it until the 15th when we close on our house, then we'll go out for sushi afterwards to celebrate.

My mom came and took Lydia to have a sleep over. All three of us were so excited. I just adore Lydia, but I love having alone time with Emma.

Being on this carb free diet really makes you get creative with what you eat. Our latest favorite is "popcorn cauliflower." It's rather delicious and taste a lot like tater tots.

Saturday I took the girls to a "cookies and milk" party at the tree house museum. Ummmmmm, kind of crazy, I wouldn't recommend. Unless you love your kids and want to give them a great childhood, then yes, definitely go.

Sunday was our last day at church. The girls wore their Christmas dresses and climbed all over the Litchfields. I will terribly miss having a family who is so into our kids and welcomes their business and antics during sacrament.

St. Nicholas Eve the elf left the girls their presents inside their shoes. It's a huge European tradition, and it was always one of my favorites as a kid. I just love starting traditions for my own offspring.

My mom came and stayed with us so we could have a date night. We hit up T-Roadhouse and did some Christmas shopping. Fun little night out.

Wednesday my mom and I had a whole day to ourselves. I had looked forward to it ALL week long. We went to lunch at Zuppas and then had a long list of stores to go to. I love having my mom to myself and being able to help her out with projects and things she needs to accomplish. We crossed off many names on her shopping list and got a few darling Christmas decorations too.

We had a great family fun night with one of our besties, the Malmbergs. We bundled up and headed to Ogden Cities Christmas village which is rather impressive. The kids loved seeing Santa and all the little decorative houses along the way.

In the midst of all this moving, our kids haven't had much Christmas ambiance in their lives. So we put on Charlie Brown to help them bring in the Christmas Spirit while we busied ourselves stripping our house down to bare walls.

The girls think this whole moving business is a blast! I on the other hand am rather bored of it.

This is my all time favorite photo. To go along with it is the ultimate inspiring video of Christ and his purpose here. We've probably seen this 100 times in the last year, no exaggeration. It still gives me goose bumps every time I watch it. Click here if you want to view it for yourself.

Monday we were thankful for the friends who came out to help us move. We want to give a special thanks to Cody, Jed, Matt and our neighbor Mike for helping Ryan move on such a cold night. I also want to thank my parents, Carrie, Holly, and the Litchfields for taking my girls so we can get things done. Ryan and I really struggle to ever ask for help from others, but when we do we are always over come with gratitude. It's so great to have an opportunity to find out who your friends are and we are so thankful for the friends and family in our life who have always been there for us. We've also had a lot of friends offer to help, and although it hasn't always worked out, we still appreciate the gesture. We just feel so blessed to have the love that we do in our lives.

A very Bundy Thanksgiving

2011-12-05T09:58:00.000-08:00

Our first night in Oregon was spent partying with the whole fam. 16 of us went out to Sweet Tomatoes for dinner and then another group of 7 joined us back at the house for a great game night of signs and the name game. Very fun way to start our visit and we really appreciate everyone's efforts in coming out to see us.

Saturday Emma and I went to see the Bundy girls have a dance performance. I was so happy to have the chance since we miss all of their recitals and competitions. Later that afternoon Ryan, Julie and I enjoyed Sushi and then more games with the family that night.

We were sooooo lucky to have such a beautiful day at the beach. The weather was perfect, for the Oregon Coast anyways. We had no wind and blue skies, nothing could be better.

We had lunch at Pizza A' Fetta and then enjoyed the tide pools at Haystack, feeding the birds, and hot chocolate at bella espresso. A PERFECT day in my book. The girls collected sand dollars and I let them each buy a sea shell and a post card. Julie and her boyfriend Scott joined us in the adventure and it was great to have them to ourselves.

Greg and Becky invited the whole famdamily to their house to watch "the civil war" game of Ducks vs. Beavers. We had yummy food and I made the first of many batches to come of Christmas Wreaths.

Lydia is SUCH a little DIVA! It's borderline cute, but also a little exhausting. Playing at the Bundy girl's house is her dream haven for dress up and all things girly.

It's been so fun watching Emma have some girl cousins to play with. They love teaching her dances and she is just a sponge soaking up all their awesomeness.

I was very thankful I had a chance to go spend the night at my sister Stacey's house. Emma had a blast running around with the Lake cousins who she hasn't seen in a long time. Stacey and I ran errands and had a great time chatting, as always.

We went out to Greg and Becky's and they took us out for pizza and then we came back and I did all the little girl's hair. We waited until midnight for Kiersten's song to be played on the radio for the first time. How IN-CRED-IBLE to be 13 years old and have your song played for all to hear! It was really fun to be apart of that memory and celebration with them.

We had Thanksgiving at the church around the corner. It was soooo fun to be together all day long and have such YUMMY, YUMMY food. I didn't do too well with taking photos of each table, but I tried my best. There was 30 of us all together and we were missing 3 family members. It's so fun to be part of such a large family.

We played the word game, dodge ball, wall ball, and four square.

I didn't see Lydia or Emma the entire day, it was lovely. The cousins take such great care of my girls and it totally shows on Lydia's face how much she loves them. Notice the black and white photo.....ummmm, Emma looks more like her Bundy cousins than me and my own sisters look alike!

My birthday was actually pretty great this year. Greg and Becky kept our girls so we could go to Thai food with Margo, Clay and Julie. It was delicious and I loved the company. Then later that night Margo and Julie watched our girls so Ryan and I could have a reminiscent date back where it all started for us. A fantastic night.

I do have to give a special mention about this little niece of mine here. Kiersten and I share the same birthday. Back when I turned 17 Ryan brought me a dozen red roses, took me to Olive Garden, and gave me a nice piece of jewelery. Then on our way home we stopped by the hospital to see his new niece. The whole family was there and I just remember thinking to myself that I wanted to be apart of this family. Then that night was the first time we both said I love you. Sappy little story, but Kiersten just holds the sweetest memory of how my marriage truly began.

So in celebration of our birthdays, just K and I went to the Washington Square mall at midnight. I was SHOCKED to see how crowded it was. It truly was INSANE!! People were buying pizza and Panda Express at 2 a.m. We did buy ourselves a fresh, hot cinnabon and devoured it. We were there until 3:30 a.m. and I scored a trunk full of deals for Christmas morning. Then we went back to K's house and I slept on her trundle bed. I was so tickled to spend the first part of my 31st birthday having a slumber party.

Another highlight of our trip was going to the Christmas tree farm to cut down our tree. This is the ultimate NW Christmas tradition. These trees were anywhere form $20-$40!! The tree lots in Utah are a JOKE!

Emma was delighted with the whole concept, and Lydia was just plum tuckered out.

Sunday I took photos of these two little nieces. It was pouring rain (what's new) but we still made an adventure out of it. These girls can't take a bad photo, so they made my job totally easy.
At night Margo made Ryan's favorite meal. We ended the night with more Christmas wreaths and a few rounds of games.

We really were SOOOOOO SAD to have to come home. This is my most favorite trip we've had since Emma has been born. The support and love from the family just meant so much to us. Margo and Clay are such loving parents and they really filled our cup so we can face what lies ahead. How THANKFUL I am to have such a loving family!

Welcome to Oregon

2011-11-23T13:50:00.000-08:00

Let me just preface this blog post by saying I have become very lazy with pulling out my camera. So please bare with me as I give an account of our day to day life.

Emma had a pajama party for her friend Lily's birthday. The sweet joys of childhood.

The girls and I went to Logan to spend Wednesday with my parents and my mom treated us to dinner at Kneader's bakery....di-vine!

Whoopsie, left the water running a bit too long. Lydia was tickled about it though.

Friday I went back to Logan to get mine and Emma's hair cut. While I was there I planned an itinerary for my my Aunt Lee's upcoming Mexico trip. I just LOVE planning things, even when I don't get to participate.

Ryan helped his friend Jed work on his massive garage all day.

We had the Litchfields over for Mexican Haystacks after church on Sunday. Love those guys and love this recipe.

My niece Rachel turned 18 and we had a fun outing to SLC. I just adore this girl and have loved being a part of her life.

Ryan and I had a date night to the dollar theater to see Harry Potter one last time before it leave the theaters forever. I have just treasured this series and am so sad that it's over.

Annie came and spent the night and brought dress up clothes with her, the girls were in heaven!

Ryan caught a black widow outside our house....yikes stripes!

We put our house up for sale. I think it's time for us to move on to something a little bit bigger than what Ogden has to offer. Not sure what, but we'll just see if we get any bites.

While people have been viewing our house we like to go up into an undeveloped neighborhood and play hide and seek with our cars. One of us will hide and the other car has to find them. It's actually quite fun.

I taught my last Relief Society lesson on Sunday. I've had this calling for a year and just loved it so much. The women in my ward are incredible and I have learned so much from them. This is my ideal calling and I was sad to see it go.

Last year I worked at Olive Garden during the Holidays and loved having the extra money. I got my old job back and am looking forward to some extra cash for the Christmas season.

Emma has made the most out of the last of this nice fall weather. She loves her bike and playing outside.

Sidewalk chalk, who knew it would be the best play date around?

We left for Oregon for a ten day adventure to visit the Bundys for Thanksgiving. Looking forward to good food, games, and family.

Farewell to Fall

2011-11-07T09:27:00.000-08:00

We have been enjoying more of our friends the Tippings. We took advantage of their smoke grill and had the yummiest cabo tacos. Then Ryan stayed to help Matt with their new entertainment center.

Emma has been loving riding her bike and going running at the track. She may fall down all the time at home, but outdoors she is a great athlete.

I took my dear friend Carrie's family photos. We just love this family. Then we had Addi join us for a sleep over. I love having kids the same age as my friend's.

My mom came and took a group of the grand kids to the dinosaur park. This was Lydia's first time that she could remember and she was in heaven.

I've been sending the girls outside to play every day so they can take advantage of this nice weather. They play so good together and I love not having to worry about danger while they're outside. We live in a little cul-de-sac that is perfect for kids.

Sunday we took the girls up North Fork to have foil dinners and enjoy the leaves. It was so fun to play hide and seek and no bears are out tonight. I just love the girl's ages right now.

I love clothes, I do. I love good quality clothes, like baby gap and such. However, I have no problem wearing second hand clothes, in fact I prefer it. So a big thanks to my sister Stacey, my friend Amanda, and kid to kid and ebay. They allow me to indulge but not splurge. Everything Emma has on is secondhand, except the jean jacket, but I got a killer deal on it.

Emma plays with this little neighbor boy Tristan almost daily. He's a funny kid who has become a regular around our place. This photo was taken at his birthday party.

I was pleased to find good use for Emma's Halloween costume last year as I incorporated it into a decoration.

Honey crisp apples are my new all time favorite. We dipped them in home made caramel, then white chocolate, and coated them with snicker doodle sugars. They're the perfect treat to take to the neighbors.

The girls played outside with sidewalk chalk literally ALL day long. The best $1.97 I've ever spent.

Ryan and I attended the adult conference session to hear Matt Townsend speak. He has his own show on KSL and did a fantastic job speaking on relationships. It was a perfect date night activity.

We headed up to Logan to help my cousin Jake celebrate his 18th birthday. Jake is such a great guy and it's heart warming to be around an 18 year old with such a bright future.

We played ultimate frisbee and then headed to my parent's for some gym games. A perfect family day.

I volunteered in Emma's Kindergarten Party and I just love seeing her in her element.

Halloween night was one of my favorite nights as a mother. The weather was ideal, and our neighborhood and setting is just everything I hoped it would be for my girls. I absolutely love the area that we live in. Even more, I love letting my girls create such fond memories here.

Sunrise hike

2011-10-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

These little girls are so funny. I'm not even sure how this happened, but they figured out the best childhood memory ever. This activity has kept them entertained for hours. It's relatively safe, and it looks like a blast. I'm rather jealous.

The Litchfields took us to dinner at Five Guys in Ogden. Ummmm, hello. Why are those burgers so yummy?! Loved the company and the food.

My mom came and spent the night with the girls so Ryan and I could have a date night. We met up with the Tippings and hiked into Ogden Canyon a ways and then built a fire, had foil dinners, and great conversation. This is one of my favorite date night activities.

The next day the girls and I took the train with Annie to the Gateway. We had lunch on the train and then went and saw Born To Be Wild at the IMAX. Soooo cute!

I picked my sister Stacey up from the airport and I loved having her to myself all day. We went to multiple consignment shops and out to lunch at Zuppas. Then that night we got together with my mom and sisters for dinner and a girl's night slumber party. This rarely happens and is just so much fun when the stars align to make it possible.

While I was having a girls night, Ryan took his girls on a daddy daughter date. They hiked up the mountains behind our house and had a fire and dinner. Emma was loaded down with a pack that I would normally carry. She is just the best outdoor adventure gal I know.

The sister's night continued into the next day when we all went to Witches Night Out. My niece Rachel, who I adore, also joined us. Witches Night Out just can't be beat! One of my favorite Fall activities.

Stacey and I posed with these random men who were there as well. I don't know why on earth a man would attend, but at least these men got into it.

Okay, this day is my most favorite and cherished day since being a mother. I woke Emma up at 5:30 to join me for a sunrise hike on Ben Lomond. She is such a champ! She kept a great pace and a positive attitude and really just soaked in the beauty and excitement of our adventure. I'm so excited for this next chapter in my life where I can find a true friend in my children.

All the adults we passed just couldn't get over what a trooper Emma is. She could have kept hiking much farther, but I knew that what goes up, must come down, and so I made us turn back before she was ready.

My little peacock and flamingo birdies were so good to let me take their photos. I love having matching costumes and I know I won't be able to get away with it forever, so I'm enjoying it while I can.

We originally had a hard time with potty training Lydia. She just didn't WANT to go on the potty. We tried everything. In the end it was the Phantom of the Opera that did the trick. We told her she couldn't watch that movie again until she went on the potty. Sure enough, next day she went. She was so excited and said "Yeah!! I get my barbie now!! And the Phantom is so proud of me!!" Go figure. In the photo below, Lydia is wearing some of Emma's panties, that's why they are tied up with an elastic. We have since bought Lydia her own, but they are still baggy since she is just a little minute.

Salem Witches

2011-10-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

School has brought out the absolute best in Emma. She is really thriving and just a constant joy to have around. Here we are at Lee's Marketplace for an after school snack. I love having one on one time with her.

We eat an insane amount of garden tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese. New to the group is a pesto topping that my sister gave me from Costco. The three ingredients make the best team ever!

Bundy went and helped our friend Jed work on the new garage he is building. I sent Emma with him and she, Addi and Jace had the best time playing in the dirt ALL DAY! We just love the Malmbergs and wish we saw more of them, but darn it, life just keeps us all so busy.

We went to Logan and spent the night at my parent's house for the conference weekend. Before the Priesthood session we all went out to eat at Indian Oven. We had fun hanging out with Sara and Cody and my parents. We played cards, had dessert, and watched the best of Saturday night live.

Sunday my parents hosted their Halloween party and I loved having it at the first of the month. We had fabulous food, games, and costumes. My parents go to so much work to create great memories for our family. I love having my children benefit from the talents and traditions of my parents.

My dad put on a frightening display of his butcher shop experience. I don't think there were tears this year, but it sure gave the kids a good fright.

We had our neighborhood bbq that took place in our driveway. We didn't have to do any of the work, we have very reliable neighbors. It was a great turn out and delicious food. I just love living in North Ogden!

I can't say enough just how much I love having two little girls who play so well together. It is so nice knowing that if Lydia goes outside to play, Emma will take good care of her. I love living in a cul-de-sac and feeling secure that my girls are out of harms way when they are outside.

I love to volunteer in Emma's class so I can check out what's going on. I picked out my favorite little girl and arranged a play date with her. Luckily for me, the girls had a great time and I am hoping that I can continue to choose Emma's friends for years to come.

Over six years ago we went to Martin's Cove and had the most amazing experience. The friendships we made there will always be near and dear to me. We met the Tippings on that trip and have remained friends with them even though they've been gone for the last four years pursuing higher education. We're so happy to have them back. We've had some great week day dinner dates with them and this night we went to check out their new house in South Ogden. I'm hoping they'll frequent my blog/life more often.

I would think that this far into the year I would be better with bringing my camera with me, but instead it seems I am getting worse. Oh well, thank goodness for google images. The Stowers (Cody and Holly) treated us to dinner at Zuppas. It is the yummiest place ever! We had a great long chat and then went to Farrs Fresh where Ryan won a free ice-cream. Now this is my kind of date night! Cody and Holly are our oldest friends (since being married) and I'm so proud of us for being good at getting babysitters and still going out as couples....it's soooo necessary.

My sister Sara had her annual Halloween party and my friend Teagen came as my date. We went as Salem witches. I was burned at the stake. My hair had ash in it and my dress was tattered and burned. It was fun to go as something other than a sexy witch...sooooo played.

Sara and her friend Tiffany totally outdid themselves. The food, games and prizes were a smashing success. We won a prize for best cat walk and also for winning the scavenger hunt. I'm already looking forward to next year.

Apple Dumplings

2011-10-05T13:44:00.000-07:00

I LOVE putting Lydia to bed. She is so easy and so snugly. We read Lama Lama Red Pajama every night and then we both sing songs. Nobody has to tell me that I'm going to miss this stage, I already know it.

Emma has turned into such a helpful little girl. She takes chores and tasks upon herself and loves to be appreciated. I don't know what I would do without her.

Emma grabbed my camera and snapped some photos of me spending an ENTIRE day working on the girls Halloween costumes.

For our family fun day we went to Willard Bay for a picnic and playing in the water. It sure was nice and close to our house, but not my favorite beach.

The Willard mountains are my most favorite mountains in all of Utah.

We had our neighbors, the Litchfields, over for apple dumplings on Sunday and enjoyed visiting with them as always. This recipe is INSANE!! HERE is the link, check it out :)

I think the girls would prefer horsey rides from their dad rather than a real horse. This is their favorite past time.

Emma and Lydia in their Halloween pajamas. Ohhh to be young and so easily amused.

'Lil Pumpkin

2011-09-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

Emma and Lily have been friends since birth. It's so fun to see them start this chapter of their lives together. They're not in the same class, but both have afternoon kindergarten so they get to see each other while coming and going from school.

Emma LOVES going to the dentist. I have to act like I do too so she'll keep up her enthusiasm. She has yet to have a cavity, so that may play into her enjoyment, and also she gets to pick out a prize at the end. The only part I like about going to the dentist is when I do have a cavity, because then I get the gas :)

We had a family hike and came across this tarantula right on the trail!! This photo was an attempt he gave to hide from us, you should have seen what he looked like while trying to defend himself and look larger than life.

Lydia loves picking strawberries from our little patch.

For our NINTH anniversary Ryan and I had a fantastic day together just the two of us. We took my parent's Ranger RZR over Avon and into Ogden Valley for a delicious lunch at Huntsville BBQ company.

Ogden Valley holds so much sentiment for both of us and we loved spending the day there. On the way home we were chased by dark storm clouds, but we made it back before getting drenched.

After showering and cleaning up we went out to my favorite restaurant, Elements. Then we saw a complimentary movie of Contagion, which we both loved. By complimentary I just asked nicely if they would let us see it for free, and the agreed. Never hurts to ask. We had the BEST day together! Thanks to my mom for keeping the girls all day :)

Sunday we went for a picnic over to Hyrum dam. The girls loved playing on the beach and the weather was perfect. I am kicking myself for not doing this more often, but at least we'll be prepared for next year.

Emma LOVES to take photos, even more than I do if you can believe it. I'm training her to get them just right, and she's actually doing a pretty great job.

Lydia is obsessed with her new pajamas that Annie bought her from Swiss Days. They're an early Christmas gift, and she couldn't be happier.

We had a long over due taco Wednesday date with our friends the Ferrins. This is their little girl Scarlet. They had to put up a good fight to get her to come on down here. She is sooo precious and it warms my heart to see their family grow.

I had a great photo shoot with my cousin Jake for his Senior pics. Isn't he such a good looking kid? He is a strong athlete, has great future goals, lives his standards, and has a fun sense of humor. He'll be a great catch for any girl, the kicker is that he just isn't interested right now, which makes him even better in my eyes.

Addi came up and spent the two nights with us while we stayed at my parent's house over the weekend. We absolutely adore Addi and her influence on Emma. I can't believe this is the only photo I have of the girls, but what can ya do?

I hosted a shower for my sweet cousin Sydney. It was so fun to try the new things I have discovered on Pinterest and to see my cousins who live out of town.

I'm so excited when anyone has a baby, but especially excited for Sydney. She is oober talented, has a rockin' marriage, and just as sweet and loving as can be. She's going to be a great mom who will likely fill me with jealousy when I see all the cute things she'll be doing for her kids.

These are the Smith wives (minus one who couldn't attend.) Some are blood related, some by marriage. I adore every single one of them and wish so badly that we lived closer so I could enjoy their awesomeness on a weekly basis.

Soooo, how often do you clean your kid's car seat? I hardly ever do. Let me rephrase, I NEVER do, unless vacuuming counts. This is how my husband does things. Takes it all apart, puts the cover in the washing machine, and scrubs the plastic in the kitchen sink. Yep....he's mine...allllllll mine.

This BEAUTY is my neighbor whom I ADORE. Stunning, isn't she? I had the best time driving around the valley with her and her parents while we hit up different locations. I could make a LONG list of why Sami is as pretty on the inside as she is on the outside. Let's just say, that I am the President of her fan club.

First Day of School

2011-09-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

My sweetest little Emma started school today. We spent the morning making apple cupcakes for her teacher that were so delicious. Then we did her hair and had her favorite breakfast. She was so excited to go to school and didn't show any signs of anxiety. I held it together until I got back in the car before I let the tears fall. What an adventure the last five years have been. I'm so thankful that as I stumble my way through learning to be a mother, I have a child as easy and good natured as Emma, who I know will help me reach my full potential.

Ryan has been working like a fool out in our yard. I love having a man who knows the value of yard work.

These little girls are just the best of friends. I LOVE that they play so well together (as long as they have a break somewhere in the day.)

My mom and I had the ABSOLUTE BEST day together on Friday. We drive to Midway to attend the Swiss Days Festival. We talked non stop the entire time. I can't think of any other person I would rather spend an entire day with.

These are just a few of the treasures I bought from the booths. Lydia made out like a bandit as well, but that will come in a later post.

Then we ended our day with lunch at my favorite hotel, Zermatt. What is better than a delicious salad and reuben sandwich out on the patio? Nothing.

Saturday my family went to Lava Hot Springs. There were 21 of us in total. Ryan and I had a blast! Largely in part b/c the weather was too chilly for my mom, so she kept Lydia by her side so we could actually have some fun. The river was wild and crazy, just how I like it. I made it to the second platform but couldn't go any higher to jump. We had a great time with family, yummy food, and fun water slides. A must for next summer, but definitely earlier in the year, it was rather chilly.

This is Tiger. Our cat for the day. He randomly showed up one day and made himself right at home in our yard. We fed him, pet him, and took photos galore. I like the girls to think we have pets, when in actuality they belong to someone else. I have no intention of ever owning a pet, so this works great for all of us. Tiger disappeared the next day and has never returned, but the girls still tell people about their pet cat.

Monday we had an insanely delicious breakfast at my aunt Lee's. Then we played some volley ball and had a great little Labor Day hike. The weather was fantastic!

I LOVE UTAH!!

2011-09-07T14:21:00.000-07:00

My favorite Uncle Paul was in town for the weekend and we had fun with him on Monday going to the Gateway. The girls loved the fountain and my mom and I loved the shopping.

We ate at our favorite restaurant, Thaifoon. The weather this time of year can't be beat. I am so thankful for what good girls I have. Every time we go out to eat usually at least one stranger tells us how well behaved our kids are, gotta love that.

My poor little Lydia has crawled out of her crib a couple of times and made herself a little bed on the CEMENT floor at my parent's house. It's rather disturbing when I go in to check on her before bed and I find her in a heap on the floor.

Ryan's dad and brother were passing through town and we had a fabulous time catching up with them over lunch. The little girls love their Grandpa Clay.

My parents took our little family hiking up Black Smith Canyon one night. It was great having the place to ourselves and I enjoyed sleeping in the pop up tent with Lydia and my parents. That's my kind of camping.

Ryan, Emma and my mom went for an adventure up to Old Ephraim's grave. He is a big scary bear that used to roam this area.

I had a great photo shoot with Emma. She is such a little diva.

Up in Paradise where my parents live, their little town hosts something called Trout and Berry Days. It's wonderfully UNDER priced and filled with great activities. One of which is letting the little kids catch their own trout.

In the collage below, the story goes left to right.
Lydia starts by being excited. They drop fish into the water. Lydia practically refuses to get in. I have to catch her fish for her, screaming all the while. Finally catching the fish. Lydia traumatized by the whole experience.

And this collage doesn't shed the best light on me, but what do you do?
Starts with Emma being enthusiastic. Emma tries to catch the fish for all of one minute. She realizes it's hard so she just gives up and stops trying. I give her a finger in the face lecture in front of a whole big crowd over why we don't quit, and she dang well better keep trying, even if she never catches one. Ryan calls me out of the viewing area b/c I'm making an arse of myself. Emma continues to stand there and cry. Some nice volunteer took pity on her and caught the fish for her (which is very nice since I was being so mean, but teaches her that if she quits someone else will pick up the slack) So this was my ugliest moment as a mother, but lesson learned on my end.

The cousins back at my parent's house with their trout they all caught. We enjoyed some of my sister Sara's fantastic cooking and grilled these up for Cabo Tacos.

We had a great little family hike up Cold Creek Canyon. I love family outings, and I love that they are right outside our back door.

We took my parents with us up to Big Cotton Wood Canyon to do some exploring. I can't get over how GORGEOUS this canyon is and all the hikes and adventures it has to offer.

We started with an easy stroll around Silver Lake and then took it up a notch to see Twin Lakes. Truly BE-YOU-TEE-FULL! I LOVE UTAH!

Welcome Home!

2011-08-27T08:18:00.000-07:00

We have had so much fun adjusting to life back in the glorious state of Utah! How could we ever live anywhere else? The weather, outdoor activities, and beauty are unbeatable. My mom and the girls and I took the Razor out for an adventure up Black Smith Canyon and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

Tuesday we went to Bear Lake with my mom and MY Aunt Lee, and the girl's Aunt Kylee and Uncle Brody. We loved seeing them again and just spending time together on such a beautiful lake.

Lydia tries with all her might to copy everything Emma does. Good thing Emma is such a good kid or else this could be bad news for me.

Wednesday we met Sara and the boys at the Logan pool again for another great day in the sun. Ummmm, can you tell my girls are comfortable in front of the camera?

Thursday was a grrrreat day! Well, it started off not so great when Emma got stung by a few wasps. Then she called Ryan and begged him to come home. Little did she know we were on our way to the airport to get him as she made that call. Our friends the Ferrins gave us a buddy pass and Ryan was able to zip home instead of possibly extending for a few more weeks. So at the airport I told Emma we were going to pick up Annie and asked her to get out of the car and throw something away for me. She was so surprised when she saw Ryan and both the girls are thrilled to have him home, as is he.

The next day Ryan and Emma had a good three hour adventure. They are such good friends and it warms my heart to see how alike they are and how very different their relationship is compared to mine and Emma's. The went exploring up in the mountains and Lydia and I enjoyed having time just the two of us while they were gone.

Lydia is my little helper. She is her mother's daughter and loves to clean, snuggle, and eat dessert.

I am so disappointed with myself for not capturing photos of the great family party my parents had with a large group of extended family. So I am posting this photo to represent the Sabbath Day, I must add that I DID NOT edit this photo, this is how the sunset looked.

Also fitting for this day of rest is this precious little girl who reminds us every day just how blessed we are.

Bucket List

2011-08-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

Well, we finally left Oklahoma. Our family had a great experience living her for three months, and I know we will always look back on these memories fondly. As far as Oklahoma the State is concerned....I'm not a fan. Too blazing hot, too many smokers, and not enough outdoor recreation. So farewell Oklahoma...I have no intention of seeing you again.

Ryan moved from Tulsa to Oklahoma City with the rest of the guys on his team. All the wives headed home so the guys could wrap up the last of the season. My mom was kind enough to fly out and drive the 18 hours back with the girls and I. We turned it into a three day adventure and stayed at hotels along the way. The girls LOVED having Annie back in their lives and all the fun, prizes, and sugar that always accompanies her.

The drive home was just as flat as flat can be. This view below is what it looked like in all directions as far as we can see. Kind of pretty, in it's own way.

We stopped at Taggart's, our favorite restaurant up in Morgan Canyon, on our way home. It was sooo very delicious and I was beside myself over how pretty these mountain views are.

The girls and I have spent all of our nights up at my parents house. We have loved taking their Razor out for adventures and just having so much time to spend with family.

Emma and Jaken.....reunited after a long summer apart. These two little cousins have a romance going on, they will be mortified in years to come, but for now, cousins or not, they have their hearts set on being married some day.

Alas! My long awaited Josh Groban concert finally came. This has been on my bucket list and it did not disappoint. I went with ten of my family members and had the best time.

The half of us that live in Logan rode the front runner to Salt Lake City to spare ourselves the traffic hassle. We enjoyed playing cards and visiting on the way down. Once we got to Gateway we all had dinner at Thaifoon...my absolute favorite!

Josh didn't razzle dazzle like some performers have to do. He simply just belted out his songs and that was all the entertainment I could ask for.

Sunday was my parent's forty first anniversary. They are such an example to me of constantly trying to grow, and learn, and develop new talents. I don't know any other people who are so diligent about educating themselves with every resource available. Talks on tape, education week, fox news, the Ensign, Institute classes, community college classes, seminars, educational blogs, you name it, they've read it or attended. I benefit so much from who they are and I am so thankful for their influence in my life.

heat and more heat

2011-08-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

I've enjoyed playing pranks on our friends out here. Nothing too mean, but plenty to greatly amuse me. This was a garbage can filled with water, so when the door was opened it flooded their entry way.

We have made good use of the local libraries and I have enjoyed not having to read the same stories every single night.

Vivint had Nike make custom shoes for their salesman. Ryan does plenty of walking for this company, so it's only fair.

The heat here....is RI-DIC-U-LOUS!! Truly, it's miserable. The humidity alone is annoying, now throw in 115 AND humidity....insane. Plus, the guys are walking outside for 7-12 hours a day! One of our friends actually got heat stroke and vomited multiple times. There have been 16 heat related deaths this summer, I'm surprised there hasn't been more.

We have enjoyed having a pool for our daily use. For a little girl who has never had swim lessons, Emma has really come a long way. I have tried to teach her, but of course, she learns best from anyone BUT me. I did the same thing to my mom, so I guess it's only fair.

Ryan can hardly catch his breath before the girls are begging him for a horsey ride. They sure do adore him, and I am already dreading being without him for the rest of the summer.

Misty and I drove the kids an hour out of the city to a place called kiddie land. Sooo bummed we don't have this in Utah. The rides were as good as the kid rides at Lagoon, except each ride was only .25-.50 cents!! Steal of a deal

We bought a kid pass to blockbuster and have loved renting movies on a daily basis. It's been a perfect good behavior incentive.

I can't believe what a beautiful little girl Emma has become. I don't know when it happened, but her looks really have matured and changed so much. She is still just as sweet and obedient can be, but definitely comes with her own thoughts and opinions
Emma had a great daddy daughter date to an arcade and to QT for drinks afterwards. Emma absolutely adores her dad.

I haven't really bought into the hype with the whole ipad craze...however...it has some incredible learning games for kids, and by summer's end I might be an ipad groupie.

It's a daily struggle, do we drive or walk to the pool? Both are miserably hot and it's a lose/lose. We usually opt for walking, and I enjoy watching Emma be such a doting, helpful big sister.

Do you believe in magic?

2011-08-05T14:26:00.000-07:00

Getting a "special drink" is a frequent event for us. There is a local snow cone shop that always hits the spot. It's no Bahama Bucks, but it'll do.

The apartments have a movie theater room where we usually gather with the other kids and wives here. It's the only place where I can get my blogging done by use of their wi-fi.

Tulsa has very little to offer in way of charm and appeal. This is the ONLY activity in Tulsa that I will actually miss. We try to visit this specific splash pad once a week or so. It's very unique and keeps the kids entertained for quite some time.

Our friends the Merrills taught us how to make home made sushi. It was crazy yummy and I can't wait to make it at home with my family.

Emma loves her bedroom here. It's covered in her coloring book pages and I actually let her jump on the bed.

Bundy has a dog crush on the Merrill's dog, Brewster. I think he would actually get a dog if I would allow it...but I won't ;)

We had the BEST family day at the lake. The water was refreshing and as we got away from the black top and the asphalt shingles, there wasn't anything for the heat to radiate off of and we found the evening to be pleasant...for the first time this summer. The day was capped off by having the yummiest foil dinners.

I have never seen Emma as delighted and thrilled as when I watched her believing in the magic that this magician was producing. It was a great free summer event.

Officially 30

2011-07-27T14:23:00.000-07:00

Ryan turned 30!! That means we are both officially in our 30's. I don't know why, but his birthday hit me harder than my own 30th birthday did. I'm older than Ryan, so now that he is 30, that means I am most definitely 30. Sounds silly, and doesn't make much sense, but it is truly what I felt. We celebrated Sunday with an authentic carne asada dinner made for the whole group by a Mexican friend out here. It was soooo yummy and delicious. I had a game for who is the most like Ryan, and Taisha and Bill won. Then on Monday, his actual birthday, Britney stayed with the girls while we went out on a date. It was a mellow birthday, but that's just how Ryan likes them. I'm so thankful for this summer I've had to spend with him and see him in a whole new light. I wouldn't trade him for anything and am so thankful I can call him mine.Nothing too exciting, but just another day at the splash pad, trying to mix things up a bit.

We had a girls brunch down by the pool while the guys were gone. We've all become so close. Seeing friends every single day can be so fun.

For the last month I have been applying this treatment to my warts. Yes, I have warts. There, I said it. But guess what? It didn't even work! Now all I have is a month of pain and discomfort and I'm left with a scar and my warts are still there!

Can you believe that there are no play places around here? McDonald's on every corner, but no play place?! So we finally ventured inside of Chic-Fil-A. I've never even eaten there but decided the girls needed to play, and it's too blazing hot outside to go to the park. Turns out that Chic-Fil-A lives up to the hype.

This summer Lydia made her first real friend in Sailor. Lydia hasn't had the opportunities that Emma has when she was young. Finally, two years later, Lydia has a real live friend.

We were all invited over to say good bye to the Bonillas as they headed back home. We had home made ice cream and the best lemon cupcakes. It was kind of crazy having 18 of us in one apartment, but the yummy dessert made up for the chaos.

Joplin, Missouri

2011-07-22T15:24:00.000-07:00

Sunday we took a two hour drive out to Joplin to witness the power of a natural disaster. The spirit there was just so humbling to see what it really means to lose everything. As difficult as our lives may feel some days, at the very least we still have our family and a roof over our heads. That's more than most people can say who have made their home in Joplin.

At first I thought it was just the older, weaker homes that were destroyed. But look at these quality, brick houses, nothing was exempt from destruction.

The houses were all painted. Some had inspiring messages of gratitude, and most had the name of their insurance company painted on as well. Every house had an X, and that meant it had been searched for survivors...the number on the left was survivors, the number on the right was the death toll.

These photos of just empty lots are so haunting. You truly do have to see it to believe it. Where these dirt fields are, there were once homes, trees and parks. It is just as heart breaking as can be.

The trees were stripped from their LIVE bark, what kind of force must it take to do that? Some trees had metal wrapped around them like toilet paper. These photos definitely speak for themselves, and yet still don't do justice to this disaster.

This is the high school. The elementary school looked quite similar. I'm not sure what the name of the high school was, but somebody got duct tape and added to the OP on the sign to read HOPE...I thought that was touching

This photo below is a true mystery to me. The house above is DIRECTLY across the street from the house below. How can that be? I can't imagine how it must feel to be the owners of the house that survived. Surely an overwhelming sense of gratitude, and guilt at the same time.

This is the hospital that we all saw so many images of. I just think about the women who must have been in labor, the doctors who were in heart surgery, and countless nurses who were just going about an average day at work.

I am so thankful for the day to day blessings of health and safety that we enjoy. We truly were humbled by just how vulnerable we are in this life. I am so thankful for this summer I have had to learn what is truly important in life, and the visit to Joplin just really solidified everything for me.

Happy Birthday America

2011-07-17T11:45:00.000-07:00

Every weekend we play games with 8 to 12 of us. We've had fun teaching everyone our favorite games and also learning some of theirs to take home and teach our family and friends.

The guys had to work all day on the fourth of July. We arranged a delicious breakfast for them before they went out and all shared our favorite aspects of living in America.
While the guys were gone we took the kids to a splash pad and let them buy a popsicle from the ice-cream truck....a perfect American activity.

The guys met us down town for Tulsa's fireworks display. It was nice to all meet up together and then we enjoyed motorcycle rides and Braum's ice-cream afterwards.

Emma gave an encore performance of reciting the Pre-Amble, this photo is of her new ending where she adds a very tender "Happy birthday America,"followed by a curtsy.

Britney and I have enjoyed taking advantage of the great sales and darling styles that Baby Gap always has to offer. Oh how I miss having one nearby.

I have been on the hunt to find something charming in Tulsa, and it truly is a difficult quest. Finally, after many outings, I did find this posh splash pad. The girls love it and I love being impressed by something charming for once since we've been out here.

I had a photo shoot to keep my skills up with these three darling little kids. They've become great friends of ours.

We decided to venture out to the zoo on what was supposed to be a cooler day, but the joke was on us, there is no such thing as a cooler day out here. Some of these photos may look like we are having a good time, but it's hard to enjoy yourself no matter the activity when the index is 112 WITH humidity.

As the wives we have a generous amount of time on our hands. Saturdays are especially long for us since the guys work 12 hours. I called a local nursing home and arranged for us to go down there and spend some time with their residents. It was a great experience for all of us and everyone really reached out and made a difference.

My baby is Two!

2011-07-03T13:40:00.000-07:00

Lydia got herself locked inside the shower. Bless her heart, but she couldn't figure out that she needed to push on the handle and not pull. Emma and I got a good laugh out of her little learning experience.

Taking some of the kids to explore a local park. It is so bloody hot outside that we don't even care when the kids submerge themselves in the sprinklers and water faucets.

These are long, hot, summer days. We try to stay as wet as possible to get us through.

We had a fabulous girls lunch at cheesecake factory. We learned to go BEFORE the guys go knock doors so they can stay with the kids. The Luau Salad is pictured below this one, it is my most favorite salad there ever was.

Keeping cool at the play area at the mall.

The bath tub really is like a swimming pool for the girls.

We celebrated Lydia's second birthday today. She is so sweet and gentle and our family just wouldn't be the same without her.

To celebrate her birthday we let her ride the carousel at the mall....

...and also go to the car wash, her other favorite activity.

I hopped on the latest trend and put glitter tattoos on the girls to celebrate Lydia's birthday.

We had a BBQ at the pool with all of our friends

It wouldn't be complete without rough housing from the guys

The one request of the day was that Brewster (Merril's dog) come to Lydia's party. She was thrilled to see him!

We've got a great group of friends out here who have been so good to treat our girls like family. It was nice to have so many people to celebrate Lydia's birthday.

We ended the night by opening her presents at home. It was a great day as a family and I'm glad it was so busy and fun so I didn't notice the ache in my heart that my baby is now a toddler.

Mondays is .75 movie day. I took the kids to see Hoodwinked 2 (worth .75 cents but that's all) then later that night a group of us went to see Soul Surfer, I highly recommend.

I love nothing more than having the whole pool to ourselves. Doesn't happen too often, but sure is nice when it does.

Vivint takes us out to eat a lot. Our group is always the first to arrive and the last to leave. It's like we can't get enough of each other.

If the girls have been really good I let them stay up until Ryan gets home and then go for a dip with him in the pool. It makes their day.

Lydia got herself locked in her bedroom and there weren't any door keys to be found. She had to wait until her scrappy dad got home to get her out. We slid her Nilla wafers under the door to keep her content.

Saturday night was a treat for many reasons. One was that Misty and Bill had our girls over for a "late night" with a movie and treat while we joined the rest of our group for dinner at Flemmings. For 13 of us to eat the bill came to over $1000!!! Yikes!! This is the perk from being on a very large and successful team, can't hate that.

The steak and sea food was truly the best I've had. The bread, spread, and salad were also on a whole other level. It was midnight before we left there, but it was a great way to end a long week.

We're not in Kansas anymore

2011-06-20T12:17:00.000-07:00

My little girls are so fun to shop for. They are so excited and appreciative of new things that I buy for them. Gap was having some wicked sales going on and I couldn't help but start Emma's back to school shopping. Lydia's outfit is baby Gap and only cost $11 for the whole shabang, again, I couldn't resist. But who wouldn't want to dress up these little loves?

For the team dinner this week they hosted a pool pizza party in lieu of having their meeting. They also had a belly flop contest and the winner got $100. The guys got pretty creative with how to create the biggest slap.

We had no idea but some of our old friends moved out to Wichita and we randomly bumped into them at church one week. So Hayley Beus and I met up for lunch and the park a couple times and it was so nice to reconnect. This photo below was taken as the tornado sirens were going off and she was kind enough to invite us over to huddle in her basement until the danger passed.
We have kept busy and just been having so much fun. Every day is a new adventure. The photo of Emma below is the day I thought I would be a good mom and let her enjoy playing in the mud. Sadly, it ruined her little outfit....guess that's what I get for going against my better instinct. But oh well, clothes can be replaced, but memories can't.
So I have been reading the Help and I find myself being so much more drawn to black people. We were feeding the ducks one afternoon and these little girls were just watching us. So I sent Emma over with some slices of bread and the girls had fun joining us in feeding them.

Sunday was a leisurely day as usual. We ended the evening with a few of the team members having a great game of football.

Hayley has given me some great tips on places to visit in the Wichita area. One of which is this unique doughnut cafe. Our favorite flavors were maple bacon doughnuts and also maple sea salt. Who would have ever guessed they could be so yummy?

We spend most of our spare time with the Wimmers. Landon was kind enough to take Emma on a motorcycle ride and it was the highlight of her day.

This was our last day in the Wichita area. I must say that Wichita has some VERY nice areas and if a person could live without mountains, I could definitely see them having a happy life here. Nothing is fast paced, very laid back, and very Christian. My favorite aspect of Kansas is that they know how to do neighborhoods. These neighborhoods ALL have an HOA. They have charm and appeal and everyone takes care of their property. The photos below are from Ryan's last area he knocked in. I just love the Kansas style of homes.

I am so thankful for my android phone. We spent three full days packing, moving, and unpacking down in Tulsa. Emma is happy as a clam when I let her play with my phone. The painting app. can keep her busy all day long.

I finally finished my book, the Help. Thanks Lee for the great recommendation, AND for providing the book. It has left me heavy in thought over how I treat others and what my character would portray if someone wrote a book about me.

It is so fun being out in Tulsa. The apartment complex is huge and has so much to offer. Our units are double the size of our Wichita units. The girls are so happy and it is great to have some new faces and new kids to get to know. Saturday the guys work 12 hours, so the wives all got together for lunch. There are two little boys, ages 6 and 7 and Emma has fun playing with them.
Also, it's nice to be playing games again. We were the last of the group to make our way down to Tulsa and we missed having friends to stay up late with. Notice that the clock in our apartment says 2 am. We really like the group down here and we all have so much fun together, especially once the kids are in bed.

We had a great Father's Day with Ryan. We ended the day by catching fireflies. They are SO BEAUTIFUL! They look like gold glitter in the middle of the woods. However, once you actually catch them, they are rather hideous. This was such a fun night, and Ryan and I might have enjoyed it more than the girls :)

SPARKLING lemonade

2011-06-06T22:34:00.000-07:00

Every Saturday night and Sunday night we gather in the lobby of the hotel and play games with a group of other Vivint members. We always have a great time and enjoy playing our favorite games.
We don't get much time off but this week we were able to go to Abuelos with Kylee and Brody. Our girls ADORE them which really solidifies their place as our favorite couple.

We get free passes to the YMCA and have enjoyed having that around the corner. The facilities really are SO nice and it is a great way for us to pass the time. The indoor pool is our favorite activity so far.

That's Kylee, just reading her book while we swim. Boring for her, but even still, we love to have her company wherever we go.

Kylee left to head back to Utah today, and we are so sad to have her go. She did leave us behind with the best discovery ever....sparkling lemonade!! Kylee introduced me to this product, and now our fridge is constantly stocked with them.

There are four YMCA gyms in the city, and all have their own draws. Brittney and Sailor joined us to check out this pool, it had a wave pool that kept us entertained the whole time and was a fun break from our daily routine.

This was the floor model at JC Penny in their patio department, and they let me buy it for $5. I can't believe I even debated about it. I have definitely got my money's worth!

This day was not so fun. I had a rather painful UTI. However, I am very thankful for the health care that is available to me, even when I am out of state. All was well in my world again within 24 hours.

These little sisters are just soooo funny. I LOVE how they play together. Seeing their friendship develop really does melt my heart. However, the sibling rivalry has begun. For now, it is kind of cute and comical to me, but I don't know if I will be singing that same tune by month's end.

We checked out the River Festival that Wichita hosts every year. It's no Rose Festival like Portland throws, but that's tough to compete with. I wasn't overly impressed, but it gave us a reason to see the city and get out with some other team members for an adventure.

I LOVED this day. We have had record breaking highs, so today was over 100 degrees. Sad for Bundy to be knocking doors in this heat, but the girls and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves laying pool side. We spent ALL day at the pool, and Emma and I stayed out while Lydia took a couple of naps. This is one little girl who is NOT home-sick, and I don't blame her.

Ahhh, this is the life

2011-05-27T08:33:00.000-07:00

Thursday we were all loaded up, ready to leave when we discovered the car battery was dead. A pretty rough start to the day. We finally gave in and just went and bought a new battery that my neighbor Mike installed and came to our rescue yet again. We were on the road by 2 and pulled into our Denver hotel at 11. The girls were so good, especially Lydia who won the grand prize for best behavior.

Friday we left Denver around noon and drove 8 hours to Wichita, Kansas where Ryan and his team are temporarily staying. The drive was incredibly boring and flat, but went by fast. We pulled in about the same time as Ryan was getting off work so we went and picked him up. It had been 32 days since we had seen him, I just don't know how Army wives do it.

The girls have been loving the hotel life. We have nothing to do but play. The hotel we're at provides a free breakfast and dinner, maid service, and free passes to the YMCA....who am I kidding, I am loving this life as much as anyone.

Sunday is the only day off. Most everyone goes to church and then we all met up for a day at the pool. The team met their goal so they hosted the yummiest BBQ dinner and we had fun getting to know some other families who we will be spending the summer with.

It's so nice having someone else to help put the girls to bed. It's not hard to do, they go to bed good, but it is still nice to have two parents in the family again.

The storms have been cause for concern. Luckily they keep just barely missing us. We enjoyed a great thunderstorm and down poor, but haven't had anything too serious......yet.
My cousin Kylee and her husband Brody also came out to sell for two months. Kylee drove out here with me to see her husband for ten days and then will fly back to Utah for work. It's been fun having a couple to rotate dinner with and just talk and visit with in the evenings.

Kylee is like an aunt to my girls. She adores them and they adore her. I will miss having someone so willing to play with them so I can run errands, or in this case, go and knock doors with Ryan. I'm so glad I went and am so proud of Ryan for the daunting task he faces each day.
The weather here is bi-polar. One day it will be freezing and storming it's guts out, then 12 hours later there is not a cloud in the sky and we spend the day pool side. The photo of Lydia expresses so well...Ahhhhh this is the life.

I was so pleased that Lydia was entertaining herself and being so quiet, until I discovered it was because she was playing with my jewelery. I was crushed when I realized she broke my most favorite necklace that I got in Thailand. I was upset until this little scene unfolded and Emma gave her such sweet comfort. My necklace may be broken forever, but at least I got this tender moment in exchange.

Closing up

2011-05-19T07:03:00.000-07:00

I know I am not an army wife, I don't even know how they do it. But for us, and our daily routine, having Ryan gone for a month has not been fun to say the least. I am so thankful for this chance we have had to really see just how much we need each other. It has also been a great chance for me to see who my friends are. I have to give a special shout out to the Stowers, the Malmbergs, my sister Sara, my parents and especially my neighbors the Litchfields. I know I couldn't have held it together without them. They pumped bike tires, tended the girls, played with the girls, fixed lawn maintenance, and even brought good-bye gifts for all of us. I am so thankful for my friends and family and to have had this chance to see just how much I need all of them.

Sunday we went to Logan for my nephew Caleb's birthday. The kids had a blast playing together and I know Emma will miss them so much this summer.

To celebrate Emma's pre-school graduation she and I went and got glitter toes down and colored extensions in our hair. I NEVER in a million years would have guessed that me and my daughter would both have short hair, but here we are, and it's actually kind of nice.

Before my dad left for Trinidad he and my mom came out and took us to dinner at Texas Roadhouse and then we ate at Farr's Fresh. Both of my girl ADORE my dad, but he and Emma have an extra special little bond that just completely melts my heart.

Today was Emma's pre-school graduation. Her teacher really went above and beyond all year long with her curriculum and program. Emma really grew and learned so much and I am glad I feel confident she is ready for pre-school. My mom had spent the night with us and joined us for the graduation and the rest of our fun day. It means so much to me to have supportive parents and sometimes I get overwhelmed with just how lucky I am to be their daughter.

So now I have my cousin Kylee with me and we are preparing to drive the 18 hours out to visit Ryan. We are all so excited to see him, but I don't think we are half as excited as he is to see us. It's been a long month and we're looking forward to our summer adventure as a family.

A Time To Keep

2011-05-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day was a very simple day, but I got to spend it with my girls who made me a mother, and my own mother who taught me everything I know. My mom is the EPITOME of who I am trying to be. She is always looking for the silver lining and she genuinely loves to serve others. What I admire most about her is that she doesn't need or take the spotlight. She has always made such great efforts to build strong family traditions and memories, and she receives very little of the credit. I also greatly admire my mom for constantly over coming her fears. Photographed below is my mom holding a cat, which may seem ordinary for some, but it was a big step for my mom, and it truly does inspire me to push past my little hang ups as well. My mom is my best friend, and I respect her and continue to need her wisdom and influence in my life now more than ever.

I have been consumed the last week with getting 32 scrapbooks ready for Emma's pre-school class. I have seen every Mathew McConaughey movie there is and been getting to bed around 2 a.m. every night. I couldn't be more glad that this is over and I learned a valuable lesson that doing "trades" isn't always worth the money you save.

We spent a couple nights with my parents up in Paradise and had Addi come and join us for a few days. She and Emma play so good together and they get along better than Emma does with even her own cousins. It's so much easier for me to let her have a friend. Who knew 3 kids would be easier than 2!

So....yeah....my hair is gone. This turned out to be QUITE a bit shorter than I had envisioned, but in the end I am happy with it. I have had the same hair style for the last 15 years, so this is a welcome change.

We had one last little photo shoot before leaving for the summer. Lydia was being a pill so I didn't get any photos with she and I, but what can ya do? A Time To Keep is a favorite book of my family. I tried to recreate a similar picnic for the girls that they had in the book, and although it was a lot of work, we still had a great time.

I know, right? My precious phone! Plus, the screen is glass, so although this phone is still functioning, I have little glass shards on my fingers every time I use it. No worries, a replacement is on the way, but until then I am a horrible communicator.

So today was actually a pretty fantastic day, but I didn't have my camera. I enjoyed lunch up at Eats of Eden with my mom and the girls. Then we had fun playing on the Liberty property with the girls. We also stopped by a little boutique and bought ourselves new matching summer purses. Later that evening we went to the Marriott hotel in Ogden where my parents were spending the night (just for the fun of it) and we joined them for swimming and hot tubbing, the girls were in heaven! A very fun week filled with great family activities. I think I will miss my parents more than anything while we are away this summer.

Star of the show

2011-05-09T23:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday we enjoyed a nice quiet day. Our neighbors the Litchfields (who are the best neighbors ever) took Emma with them to church and then kept her for a few hours so Lydia and I could enjoy some down time while we're both recovering from being sick. Then my sister Sara had us out for dinner that night. This was a very pleasant and easy day.
They're baaaack! It's that time of year again to get out the spider traps. Bleh!

My dad was out of town so the girls and I enjoyed a quick trip to Paradise to spend the night with my mom.

We enjoyed attending an over the top birthday party for our little friend Sailor Wimmer.

Emma's dance recital was just as cute as could be and I made her whole week when I told her she was the star of the show.

I have a rebellious nature, it's true. I get it from my mom. It usually builds and builds until I have to satisfy it. So I got my release from snipping some cherry blossom branches and giving a couple bouquets away and then keeping one for myself.

I loved joining my sister Sara (in the middle) and some of her/our friends for her birthday celebration at an all you can eat Sushi. We had to roll ourselves out of there but it was worth every bite!

Look-a-like

2011-05-06T22:17:00.000-07:00

Friday I attended a great temple session with my parents and two of my sisters.

My parents finally caved and bought a mouser cat. We have all fallen for her. (sadly, two weeks later this same little Kitty met her fate with a wild animal and she is alive no more. She had a good run though)

We spent Easter up at my parents house and the girls were delighted with the Easter baskets that the bunny left for them.

We had a progressive dinner with my family and two of my aunts. One of the stops was to have sandwiches and salads in my aunt's kindergarten class room. We all loved seeing her little chicks and eating at the Kindergarten tables.

All right, the next four days I didn't take ONE single photo. So the four following photos aren't significant of anything, but they are there for the sake of amusement.

Below: Ryan Bundy as Andy Samberg (Saturday Night Live)

Lindsey as Veronica (Archie comics)

Emma as Shirley Temple

Lydia as Boo (Monster's Inc)

Thursday night and Friday night Brittney and Sailor came and spent two nights with us. It was SO nice having an adult to talk to and the girls loved having a friend sleep over. We wore them out with a full day of playing and running errands.

We have all been missing Ryan like crazy, but Emma has had an exceptionally hard adjustment.

Las Vegas...round two

2011-04-21T13:34:00.000-07:00

Yep, a week later we returned to the Tahiti Village with our friends Landon and Brittney Wimmer and their little girl Sailor. The Wimmers are also doing summer sales and they talked us into joining them for one last hoo-rah before the guys move to Oklahoma. I'm SOOOO glad we went, we had the best time!

This is our first family vacation Ryan and I have been on that didn't include my family or going to see Ryan's family. We love taking our girls out door to explore and hike and Emma was a champ to climb to the top of this rocky mountain with Ryan.

In the evening we went out with the Wimmers for dinner at rain forest cafe. Yes the girls loved it, but the food quality did not much the prices they were charging, but the atmosphere almost made up for it. Afterwards Ryan and I took the girls to see the Bellagio water show and garden. Las Vegas Strip is rather disgusting and I will never take my kids out at night again. There were times when Emma just had to close her eyes and hold Ryan's hand because the papers on the ground were so disgusting. I am so glad we did not stay on the strip or have much to do with it. I do have to say that the photo in the bottom right corner on this collage is not painted, it is made with fresh flowers, it was worth the visit.
We were supposed to go home on Friday but just couldn't bring ourselves to do it, so we extended for one more night and I'm so glad we did. The hotel has a great grilling area and we had the patio to ourselves as we enjoyed the yummiest BBQ dinner, definitely my high for the day.

Our last day we just vegged and hung out at the pool all day! We had left overs from the night before so we grilled up another BBQ spread for lunch and we all just relaxed and soaked up the sun. We truly had the best time as a family, and also loved getting to know the Wimmers, especially since we will be seeing a lot of them this summer :)

The next day after our trip Lydia slept until nearly 3:00 in the afternoon!! I guess all that sun and fun finally caught up with her. We went to my parents for a thai dinner that my very talented sister made and then enjoyed crepes and four square with the rest of my Utah family.
Ryan worked in the yard ALL day in the POURING rain. The girls and I stayed inside, nice and warm and enjoyed life as usual.
I took Ryan to the airport at 6 a.m. for him to start his summer sales job. I'll be joining him in a month. Until then, I will eat as much girl food and salads as I can before I have a man too cook for once again.
I sure do love my most recent purchase from Real Deals.
The girls and I sat on the front porch and snuggled up watching the thunderstorm. They were both a little nervous about it, especially when the thunder literally rattled the windows. But it's moments like these that are the highlight of my day.

Peanut Butter

2011-04-17T11:32:00.000-07:00

I have been putting hair tinsel in Emma's hair lately and I love the little pizazz it gives her. I'm surprised how often strangers are stopping her to check it out. I'm so glad I just did it myself instead of going to the salon. One of many thanks I owe to ebay.

We had a date night with our friends the Wimmers. We took the Front Runner to SLC and played cards on the way down there. For a four person pass it was only $6 a couple round trip, that's cheaper than gas prices. Then we had our favorite dinner at Thaifoon where the Thom Kah Gai soup is unbeatable!!

Saturday we had another date night with my sister and her husband. We normally don't do back to back date nights but we're trying to get in as much of them as we can before Ryan leaves. In the photo below it looks like Cody is my brother, instead of my sister who I very sadly look nothing alike. We went to an all you can eat Sushi restaurant in Layton and it was DI-VINE!!

Sunday we had an early Easter celebration since Ryan will miss out while he's gone. The girls were so excited about everything and I just love doing for my girls what my parents did for me.

This is Peanut Butter, Emma's build-a-bear she got for her birthday. Because Emma loves it so much, then Lydia loves it so much. It's the cause of a lot of fights. As the oldest Emma has to give in to Lydia A LOT, this is one area where we don't make Emma give Lydia something of hers. So although this bunny can be trouble, it is also the cause of bonding when it's Emma's own choice to share with her little sister.

Tuesday I took Emma to Bates Elementary to register her for Kindergarten and give her the tour. My heart was pumping so fast the entire time we were there. I can't believe my little girl is leaving for school! There aren't really words to describe this melancholy feeling I have. I'm so happy for Emma to have this experience, but my heart just kind of aches inside. Oh, I guess there are words, that describes it just right.

Three generation girls trip

2011-04-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

My mom, Emma and I just had a three day blissful girls trip to Las Vegas. The first five hours were driving in the snow, so that made this trip an even better treat for us.

We started by going to the Excalibur so Emma could be in a real live castle. We saw three different 4-D movies/rides that were fun for all of us and also rather clever. My mom refused to go on the Sponge Bob ride but joined us for the Log Ride and Happy Feet.

We then ate at Rain forest Cafe which was the highlight of Emma's day, even at thirty I still get excited about their atmosphere. Then we hit up M&M world and walked the strip for a bit. This was conference Sunday and it was QUITE the contrast to how we typically spend our Sundays. Man alive, Vegas tourists are sooooo skanky! Where are they coming from? We were all too happy to not be staying on the strip.

Our hotel was bomb-diggity! It had a view of the strip, but we were spared the casinos, smoke, and pornography. I don't think I will ever stay on the strip again. Tahitian Village was the name and it was so nice and had the largest rooms and best pools, all for $72 a night! We were right smack in between two awesome malls and had a kitchen in our room so we didn't have to eat out every meal, even though we still pretty much did.

Monday we just laid by the pool all day. Part of the pool had a sandy beach entrance and Emma played there all day with her mermaid and various friends.

The lazy river is something that not even I have outgrown. We had a blast going between this pool and the main pool.

I loved that this hotel wasn't laced in rules. We could put our lawn chairs in the actual water as well as our table while we both enjoyed our books. My mom ordered us a Pina Colada, that is one of my favorite tropical vacation traditions, and it really added to the experience for me :) Silly, but it's the little things that make such a difference.

Tuesday we went back down town to enjoy some of the unique exhibits the big resorts offer. We went to the Secret Garden at the Mirage hotel to check out their Dolphin Exhibit. This was money well spent. I ADORE Dolphins, and this was the closest I've ever been to them.

There weren't the bells and whistles that Sea World has, but there also weren't the crowds and expenses either. It was fun to watch them play and seemed like a great environment, IF you have to live in captivity that is.

Emma has been saving her piggy bank money and so she bought herself this little dolphin, Bella, named after the baby dolphin that lives here. It hasn't left her side since she bought it.

There was a mediocre Cats exhibit with white tigers. It was much more like a zoo, but more unimpressive. Oh well, the dolphins gave us our money's worth.

We also went to the Bodies Exhibit at the Luxor hotel. I have wanted to see this for years! Photography wasn't allowed, so we had to be sneaky. This was SO fascinating and beautiful. I could have spent far more time here, but having a five year old in tow was limiting. This man I am standing next to was filled with medical body replacements. His knee replacement looked like a car part!! It was soooo incredible to see. I definitely recommend this to anyone who gets the chance. It's a true testament that God created us, we didn't just "evolve."

This is the only photo we have of the three of us. It was SOOO fun for me to be with my mom, and also my daughter. How often does that get to happen? My mom has always been my best friend and I could never ever get sick of her companionship. Emma was such a joy to take on this trip. She is at such a fun age, and I noticed that more when I didn't have a one year old demanding so much time and attention. She was so excited about everything and so grateful. I never understood before, but now I do understand why people travel with their kids. Spending time alone with my girls is always such a treat and really strengthens my relationship with them. I hope I do one on one trips much more often.

The hotel was right in between two fabulous malls and we enjoyed shopping at each of them. The Town Square mall is a step above all others I've ever been to. I will sorely miss the warm weather but I am so thankful I had a nice little break from the snow.

Wednesday we spent the day driving home. Lydia had missed me soooo much, sadly, I think more than I missed her. But once I had her back in my arms three days of missing her came to the surface. She hasn't left my side since I got home, and I wouldn't have it any other way :)

Reality Check

2011-04-07T10:19:00.000-07:00

Monday Ryan flew out with his Vivant team to get licensed and trained and get a reality check for the summer of knocking doors that is ahead of him. After four days he was missing the girls like crazy, I don't know how he is going to go SIXTY days without seeing any of us!

I kept plenty busy while he was gone. Tuesday I had a long over due photo shoot with my little "baby." It makes me sick how fast she is growing up. But until baby number three comes (which is still a couple years off) I will always think of Lydia as my baby.

This photo is my FAVORITE! This little girl knows EXACTLY what she is doing, and that little face just proves it.

Emma continues to take dance every Wednesday and is really learning a lot about technique, not just cutesy dance moves. I love her teacher and the dance program.

Emma had her first sleep over with her little friend Addi. We came up to my parents house to spend the night and the girls played so well. I never even saw them! I also never got a great photo, but this photo summarizes how most of their evening was spent.

In the morning we took the girls to breakfast at the local restaurant in Paradise. I hope Addi continues to make more appearances on my blog, she truly makes my job easier.

Saturday I took Lydia over to the Jensens where she would spend the next four nights with them while my mom, Emma and I went to Las Vegas. This photo looks like Lydia is trying to find a "happy place." It's just that her taggy blanket puts a spell on her. No doubt Lydia had more fun staying with the Jensens than if she would have come with us to Vegas. Thanks again for keeping her!!

Optimistic in Oklahoma (catchy phrase eh?)

2011-03-29T21:37:00.000-07:00

So for those of you who don't know, which is most everybody, I thought I should do a little update of what has been happening in our household. Everything went rather quickly and in the end we feel really optimistic about the next six months. Ryan decided to take a summer job and work for a sales company formerly known as APX, and has now branched out to bigger and better products and has become Vivant. He will be going with a team to work in Oklahoma City starting in April and will be gone for four and a half months. He will only come home for one visit at the end of June to join my family for a trip to Havasupai Falls. This trip will celebrate something different for most of my other family members, but for us we will be celebrating Ryan's 30th birthday. After hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and then climbing back out again, we will return home, get our girls, and head back to Oklahoma City. The girls and I will live with him for the month of July, and then head home for the last month of the summer. He will finish his work and then be done come September. Big news for us. It's tough times out there and we're hoping this is just the ticket we need to get ahead so Ryan can pursue more of his business passions. The photo below is a little irrelevant to this update, but it shows how beautiful Havasupai is and why our summer will revolve around this two night trip.

Going Gray

2011-03-27T19:50:00.000-07:00

My mom came up and took me and the girls to lunch at Wingers. Then turned around and drove the hour home. I appreciate both of my parent's efforts in not letting an hour distance come between us.

Emma has the BEST time at her pre-school St. Patrick's Day party, it might have even been better than our green french toast.

The girls in their Naartjie leggings, my favorite kids clothing item ever!

Capri Suns are a staple in our house. I feel like the Roaring Waters are better than actual sugary juice, but who knows. Lydia probably goes through three or four of these a day!

Sunday we went to my mom's for dinner while my dad was in China. We attempted to make bunny cake balls, but just turned them into cute characters. The kids loved them!

My aunt Lee sewed me this table cloth custom made for our dining table. I picked out the fabric from fabric.com and am just tickled to have a good tablecloth. Thanks again Lee!

The flu made a full circle through our house hold. It was a LONG week!

I started going gray at 14. I have had to color my roots since I was 25. It needs to be done every 3 weeks or so. I don't have any pity on ANY of my friends who have ONE gray hair here or there.

My parents have the best tub. It has air bubbles instead of jets and a light that changes color. It's the best babysitter around. I just sit in the room and read my book. I don't lave them TOTALLY unattended.

We LOVE this juice. It is loaded with fruits but also wheat grass, soy, barley, carrots, spinach and all sorts of other veggies. Both the girls go to town on it, and I would drink it myself but it's not super cheap, so Ryan and I refrain and just give it to the girls.

We borrowed Cody's truck and Ryan took a full load of yard debris to the dump. Good thing he did, because the snow returned the next day.

Woke up to snow this morning. I don't mind it because I know Spring is just around the corner. So is a much needed trip to Las Vegas.

We had a really fun week and there are a lot of events I didn't photograph. In no particular order we....

Spent two nights with my parents
Emma had a slumber party with her favorite cousin Milly
Ryan went to a Jazz game and got to slap hands with the players
We had the best date night with our new friends the Wimmers
Girls played at the Jensens while I ran errands
Watched Survivor and caught up with the Searles
Ordered bedding on etsy for my mom (I like spending other people's money)
Had the yummiest sushi rolls and visited with our friends the Craguns
Emma had multiple play dates with her friend Addi (they are kindred spirits)
Had my mom to myself a lot
Emma had time to snuggle with her Papa (my dad) they are each other's favorites
Ate at Texas Roadhouse twice and ordered the salmon and savored every bite
Had our favorite neighbors over for Sunday dinner
Happily put in my two weeks at Olive Garden

Date Night

2011-03-14T22:58:00.000-07:00

I don't make cookies. Ever. I think in our eight years of marriage, I've made them less than five times. My sister and my aunt make the best cookies there ever was, and so when mine aren't as good as theirs, I figure, why bother? I finally decided to give it another go, and guess what, they were delicious. Kid, I think I'm on to something here.

I was able to finish my projects with the fabric I bought a few weeks ago. Here is the finished result of the leggings I made for Emma and Lydia.

My mom came and spent the night with our girls and we went out with the Stowers for a Thursday night date night. We had dinner at Olive Garden, dessert at Farr's Fresh, and then games at the Stowers. I love the Stowers, and I love that they are always willing and know the importance of leaving the kids with a sitter and getting out for some adult time. Date nights when you're older just make all the difference. Thanks again mom.

Emma had been asking me every day to check the mail because she knew a package from her "Aunt" Kylee was coming. Sure enough, it was everything she dreamed it would be. Her very own miniature tea party set. Thanks again Kylee, you made her week!

The girls having a tub, the only place I give them popsicles.

My Aunt Lee used some of my fabric to make me this fleece tablecloth that is the ultimate for playing games and cards.

The girls are better and better at playing together. That three and a half year age gap is finally starting to close up. In our house we pretty much always have a musical going in the background. Phantom of the Opera, Mama Mia, or Annie can always be heard, either on the tv or from BOTH girls singing them ALL day long!

This is my project for today.....to fill the shelves.

High Five!

2011-03-07T07:10:00.000-08:00

The week leading up to the birthday we get out the birthday tree and put one ornament on a day. It adds to the excitement and helps Emma grasp the concept of time.

My parents had myself and my sisters and our husbands over for a tasteful seminar on intimacy in marriage. I've never heard of ANY other parents doing this for their children, let alone their son-in-laws. We all had such a great discussion and benefited from this evening greatly. I know it can be taboo to some, but I think every relationship needs to have this topic addressed. Thanks again mom and dad!

We spent the night at my parents and LOVED taking the girls sledding down their hill. Lydia was in heaven! It was an absolute beautiful day.

This photo speaks for itself. One of my favorite winter scenes I must say.

My sweetest little Emma turned five today! She is still the same joy, ENERGY, and light she was five years ago. Not much about her has changed over the years. She has a heart of gold, confidence like I've never seen, has trouble watching where she is going, and is the most obedient child there ever was. I am so thankful to have her as my first born.

Every other year we rotate between a friend's party and a family party, this year was a family party. My mom kept Lydia so Ryan and I could take Emma to spend the day with us. We went to see a 3D IMAX movie at the Gateway, took her to build-a-bear to buy a new friend courtesy of her grand-parents, and then we went to Firehouse Pizza for lunch.

My mom and Lydia came back and joined us for cake and presents. It was sooooo nice just keeping the day low key and spoiling the most deserving girl there ever was.

Laying out all of Emma's birthday presents from Ryan and I

Finally finished a LONG over due shower gift for my cousin Jessica. This is her marriage advice book. A big thanks to all of those who emailed me entries. For those who didn't, you will still have your chance.

I work at Olive Garden on nights and weekends. I love getting out of the house, and what can I say, the money is great! This is how much I WALKED with (after tipping out) last Friday night.

Ryan brought me flowers for no reason!

...So I made him breakfast in bed for no reason :)

Ohhh, Monday, cleaning day. Thanks to this "magic eraser" our house actually gets clean. This little friend of mine can get out just about anything, but is used mostly on marker stains left behind on the counters and walls.

J'adore la Paris Barbie

2011-02-24T14:21:00.000-08:00

Emma is such an obedient little girl, I know I am not fully appreciating it b/c I have nothing to compare it to. I also know that I am very blessed in this regard. She went 13 days straight without ever being asked to turn her light to yellow. So to reward her she and I went out to eat at Spaghetti Factory and saw an IMAX movie. It was a great day for both of us.
Ryan and Lydia flew out on Saturday to go see Ryan's family in Portland for his nephew's farewell. Ryan and I pretty much had to fight over which one of us got to keep Lydia, but he won out. She was sooooooo good for him and he had the best time with his family.
Modern Technology is just the best. That is Ryan's cell phone he is using to let her watch a movie, pretty sweet eh?
Emma and I had a lot of fun being just the two of us. We were hit with a huge snow storm and I was very thankful for my neighbor Mike snow blowing our driveway.
Sunday night Emma and I went to Logan to spend two nights with my parents. I loved taking my cousin Matt's senior photos on Monday and making them personal to him. Also I enjoyed dinner at Elements with my mom and dad and sister Jamie, and also finishing a huge list of craft projects.
I finished writing my history for the year 2010, and since I got mine done first out of my sisters, I won the prize of this amazing Paris Barbie. I love her so much!! It will be years before I let her out of the box for Emma to play with.
Emma is such a good girl. She just plays quietly in the mornings until I wake up. Ryan is long gone to work and it isn't until 9:30 or so that Emma comes in my room to finally rouse me out of bed. Sad, I know, but lovely.
Perfecting our Thai Green tea. Not nearly as good as Thaiphoon's at the Gateway, but always hits the spot for me.

Sunny Days

2011-02-17T09:59:00.000-08:00

The weather outside has been absolutely beautiful, and we've gotten outside to enjoy it as much as possible. Here the girls are at Lee's marketplace feeding the ducks.

I LOVE fabric. I have never sewed in my life, but I still find myself drawn towards sewing projects, I will admit it is under the assistance of my Aunt Lee and my mom, but I still love it. Here is my most recent order from Fabric.com. More to come on table cloths and leggings for the girls
Just another BEAUTIFUL 53 degree day in the middle of February. This is the view heading up to our street.
Sunday our neighbors had their missionary homecoming for Parker. We've heard so much about Parker and he has lived up to his reputation. I think it is the sweetest thing ever how much this family adores their brother/son and I think we should all brag about our family members and not be shy to express how amazing we think they are.

Valentine's Day we had my nephew Jaken join us for our red and pink breakfast. Emma helped me make cake balls that we took around to various neighbors and teachers and let Emma hand out her home made Valentine cards.
For dinner we had a heart shaped pizza, exchanged gifts and played games.

Been to the park as much as possible before the snow returns

Emma started a little dance class today and these poses are ALL her!!

This is the view I see when I look in my rear view mirror, this one photo summarizes so much of the joy in my life.

Love is Tweet

2011-02-09T19:19:00.000-08:00

This little magic trick was one that my first grade teacher used on me. To this day I remember the shame of being told to turn my light to yellow. How it works is that when Emma goes to bed at night if her light is green then she gets a star, five stars in a row equals a special mommy/daughter day. Yellow light at bedtime means no star, red light at bed time means no star AND no night light or book for bed time. She has the chance to earn her light back to green by doing something good or helpful that she was not asked to do. So far, no red lights. I'm happy to report this little "light system" works just as well on Emma as it did me when I was a little girl.

Emma had her little Valentine's party today with her three little girlfriends she's had since birth. Daviny Rasmussen, Lily Stowers and Addi Malmberg.

I bought a bird cookie cutter and had our local baker (Lee, from the Straw Market) whip me up some darling bird sugar cookies that we used as the party favor. Lee's marketplace made me some red bread to use for sandwiches.

My mom did this when I was a little girl and I just now remembered it a few days ago. Take some tiny flower pots, fill them with ice cream, top with crumbled cookies, a gummy worm, and silk flowers, voila!!

In keeping with the Love Bird theme each of the girls made a bird feeder to take home. Emma and I gathered pine cones earlier in the week, then the girls layered them with peanut butter and then we topped it off with bird seeds.

I am fully aware this as not a great photo. However, it was freezing outside and I forgot to adjust my settings for the lighting and just snapped a quick photo of the girls before letting them run back inside. So I did the best editing I could for what I had to work with.

"Hold you!"

2011-02-07T20:20:00.000-08:00

On Tuesdays I volunteer in Emma's pre-school. I LOVE her curriculum and I love that they say the Pledge of Allegiance every day.

Wednesday Emma had Addi over all day and I was able to work on my little Valentine's magnet project.
Ryan has been loving the Hunger Games series. I love a man who will read!

My friend Holly brought me these as a thank you for watching her daughter Lily, ummm, yeah, can you see how flat the bag is? This is how I spent my Friday, eating these all day long!

Emma rocking the shortie hairstyle!

Lydia's big thing right now is "Hold you." She likes to sit on my lap or be as close to me as possible. I adore it MOST of the time :)

I'm not actually trying to potty train Lydia, she's only 18 months, but the girl knows what she wants. It's rare that anything actually happens on the potty, but she sure loves to try :)

Butterfingers

2011-02-01T09:15:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love the quiet of a snowfall. I love the sound of snow underfoot. I love waking up in the morning to every branch of our trees frosted with snowflakes. It all sounds so cheesy, but I love winter.
My parents came out and dazzled our girls while Ryan and I had the best date night. We mixed it up from our usual routine and it was nice to have something different.
Lydia has a few loves in life, I've already mentioned her 'taggy' that she loves, but along with taggy is her 'piggy pillow' she got for Christmas. She takes it everywhere with her. Here she is enjoying some breakfast with piggy pillow.
Butterfingers strikes again. I don't know what is with me, but I have a reputation for dropping or fumbling things. It's ALMOST comical, almost.
Saturday night we had a family night at the Solomon center with Ryan's buddy from work, Brad, and his darling family. It's nice to have kids the same age.
Lydia is the funniest little ham. She is a princess on a whole other level than Emma ever was. She's only 18 months but LOVES to wear accessories, and keeps them on all day. Notice her slippers on top of her footed pajamas, her birthday crown, spider hat, baby legs on her arms on top of her pajamas, Emma's dance costume with mismatched hat. For now it's cute, I hope it's not a sign of the drama yet to come.
Mondays are cleaning days. How is it the weekends can turn a house upside down? But I spend the better portion of my Mondays cleaning and doing laundry for the week to come.

Locks of Love

2011-01-25T08:56:00.000-08:00

My friend Holly and I take turns running the car pool for pre-school. It is fabulous not to drive both ways. Plus, it makes Emma so excited watching out the window for them to come. Here she is off to hop in their car.

Lydia is the sweetest little love bug. She absolutely adores "Jethus." She can spot Him anywhere and LOVES to look at His pictures. Her most favorite thing ever is to watch the most beautiful video of him called Come See the Light. It's on every day in our house, and she likes to watch it over and over again.

All men have strengths, but I must say that I wouldn't trade my husbands for anything. Bundy is a fixer. He can and does fix anything and everything. My chi had finally given up the ghost, but not to worry, Bundy was on it. The cords had actually come detached from the plug, I don't even know how one would go about mending those, but Ry did it, and now I'm back in business.

For Christmas Ryan got me this hair crimper that I adore. I use it all the time on myself (when I actually get ready) and about every day on Emma. We call it mermaid hair.
Family Night we went and saw Narnia and then followed it with a game of Jenga. Emma is actually pretty good at it, especially considering how clumsy she can be sometimes.

My sister Sara surprised us all and flew my sister Stacey in for our girls night weekend. Me and my mom and sisters are RARELY together, just the five of us. I can't remember the last time we were. There are usually kids or husbands lurking in the background. It was so nice to spend time together and we really made sure it was quality and made up for lost time. I have two sisters that look alike, Stacey and Sara, we call them the twins. They are the same size, sound the same, dress the same, everything. Then my oldest sister Jamie and I are much more alike, personality, hair, etc. It's fun that way :) P.S. Stacey has a huge salad with every meal, and loads of salt. I think it's so funny, hence the photo.
We haven't been going to my parents every Sunday like we used to, but I sure love it when we do. This was just a typical Sunday evening....Lydia loving up on Papa and Annie (my parents who do not go by grandma and grandpa) playing cards, and wall ball and four square in the gym.
My sweetest little Emma has a heart of gold. One day when I was getting the tangles out of her hair and she was crying I told her how some little girls don't have any hair. She said she could cut hers off and give it to them. So we let her hair grow out until it was long enough to donate. VOILA! The time had come. A little bit of me died inside when the first chunk was cut off. But I have to say how VERY sick I am of tangles, hair washing, curling, clips, pony tails, etc. It will be nice to have a break. Definitely I will grow it back out again, but for now I am happy that some other little girl can enjoy Emma's thick hair.

Young Love

2011-01-16T21:45:00.000-08:00

We spent the weekend at my parents in Cache Valley. I took the opportunity to have an angel photo shoot with Emma. We found an old pioneer house that had stray cats as it's current tenants. The temperature was 6 degrees out and Emma was barefoot and coatless. All worth it if you ask me. She is such a champ to go along with all of my crazy ideas and schemes.

Monday I whipped up a fancy little camera strap. I must give credit to my friend Carrie for providing the inspiration.

As part of our new year we have all set goals for ourselves and our family. One of Emma's is to only watch one show a day. I thought it would be hard on the whole family, but she plays so well and is actually much happier and content throughout the day.

Wednesday we met the Foofs at McDonalds for a lunch date. Something we need to do much more often.

Lydia has a love of her life...Taggy. It is the tag on her beloved blanket. She can't go anywhere without it. She holds the tag in one hand and sucks her thumb with her other. Awww, young love.

Friday we actually had a date night. I didn't manage to take one photo even though I dragged my camera along. So this is a photo of our friends Cody and Holly Stowers who we went out with. They used to frequent my blog and journal much more often, something I hope they'll do again this year.

I worked all day on Saturday and so Ryan had the girls. But lets face it, a lot of sleeping goes on in this house, so really, it's like he only had them for a half day ;)

Sunday we had a nice time getting out of church at noon and just staying home all day. We had a fun family night with pizza, orange julius, popcorn, and a family movie. THIS is just one way that makes us a happy family and is the thing Ryan and I will miss the most when the girls are grown.

Photo a day challenge

2011-01-10T21:56:00.000-08:00

My friend Carrie inspired me last year by completing the "Photo a Day Challenge." I decided this year to have this be one of my goals. I know it will take some getting used to, and will be a time commitment, but I think it is a worthy project. So here we go. This isn't a great way to start off, but at least it's something :)

We had a fabulous New Year's Eve, filled with a sealing, brunch, reception, clean up, and then headed on over to a fabulous New Year' party at my parent's house. The little girls have been hauled around town and thrown off their schedules with all the Holiday events that by the time New Year's Day came around Lydia couldn't fight it any longer and spent most of the day sleeping.

Sunday my parents came out and joined us for dinner. Afterwards I showed them the video I made Ryan for Christmas. I tried to upload it, but our Internet is lame and after thirty minutes I gave up. So this day, sadly, has no photo.

January 2nd- No photo (I'm still new at this concept of a photo a day)

It is definitely winter outside!

I volunteered in Emma's pre-school class. Goodness me, I learned two things. One, it takes a special person to purposefully choose to teach little children all day. Two, the difference between boys and girls is almost frightening.
Emma, Lydia and I drove all the way to Lehi for me to buy various KSL items, one of which includes me new camera. Along the way we stopped at IKEA for the girls to play and us to have lunch with the Johnson girls. IKEA has got it going on!! Wish I had one close to us.

Spent a large portion of the day editing my cousins wedding photos.

For FHE we set goals for all of us, weekly and in the next year. Emma did a great job meeting all her goals so we had a mommy/daughter date night. These photos don't show it, but she was more excited than if it were her birthday. We ran errands and went to Olive Garden. I truly had a great time with her and just can't get over what a friendly, loving little girl she is.

I'm still new at this photo a day thing so it will take me a while to actually getting my camera out. Saturday night we went to my parents for a yummy, yummy dinner and then the Caspersons came up for a game of Zarahemla and hot tubbing. Great week to start the year!

Totally Tasteless

2011-01-10T13:11:00.000-08:00

My parents hosted a Totally Tasteless New Year's Eve party, and everyone really went all out.

That's Ryan sporting his chest hair, I accompanied him in a see through shirt with a colored bra, classy. Sara had her hair ratted and her jeans couldn't buckle up. Cody sported a Coors Light t-shirt and Brody made sure not to wear deodorant or socks, so he was ripe to say the least.

Each couple gave a 5 minute tasteless presentation: ~bragging about children's sports achievements~ reading a story for kindergarten children and telling what the teacher is REALLY thinking about the children~bragging about sports prowess (84 year old grandma)~ guest etiquette~buying a pension plan~doing a slow dance with your spouse and needing to "get a room"~weighing everyone and spotlighting their problem areas~passing a jar around for donations for a college couple~leading the group in a nursery song complete with body actions~~and my personal favorite....a video about tonsil stones. You should check that out on u-tube. Sick beyond words to express, that was our contribution :)

Fabulous, and unforgettable New Year's Party!

Before Julie headed back to Oregon we all went to Gateway and ate at Thaiphoon, our favorite restaurant. Everything about it was divine!!

Ryan and I went to Logan for a couple of days to go through the temple with my cousin. It was my first time I attended the endowment session for someone else and I was so happy to be there. Then we spent the next morning helping the Jensens decorate for the reception.

Jessica and Brad were married on New Year's Eve and even on her wedding day Jessica (the baby whisperer) still took time for the kids.

Christmas Celebrations

2011-01-02T18:50:00.000-08:00

My parents are notorious for hosting great parties. This Christmas they got us all a hotel room at the Ogden Marriott and we saw the Christmas villages, went out to eat, and then played games in their suit. Instead of an ugly sweater contest we had a crazy hat contest, and the competition was fierce as you can tell.
Emma has a good amount of girl cousins, unfortunately 8 of them live in the Portland area and only two live here, one of which is 17. However, if I could only pick one Emma's age to live here, it would be Milly anyways. They are like peas in a pod and get along great. In fact it's easier for the two of them to be together then have them one on one. Poor Lydia has no cousins her age, nor will she ever. But all the big kids dote on her and love to have her tag along.

For Emma's Christmas Program Santa came by for a visit. Good thing, because although I had the best of intentions, this was Emma's only visit with Santa this year. I am so thrilled with the pre-school I enrolled Emma in and really lucked out that the teacher ad curriculum are better than I expected.
Ryan's sister Julie came and stayed with us for just shy of two weeks over the Holiday. Sadly, we had a lot of family parties and other commitments, but she was good to stay with the girls and I got her hooked on LOST to keep her busy while we were gone.
This year for Christmas Eve we put luminaries in our cul-de-sac so Santa would know where to land his sleigh. We didn't leave my parents house when we planned so we didn't get the luminaries lit until midnight, and I used tea lights instead of votive candles. So next year we will use votives and get them lit sooner. Great learning experience though and looking forward to perfecting it next year.

I love this photo of the three cousins. The above photo was last year on Christmas Eve. They haven't changed too much. This was our first year NOT spending the night at my parents house for Christmas Eve. It was very "different." Not good or bad, just different. Might take some getting used to, but it was fun to be on our own schedule.

Emma woke us up at 9 and we were happy to have that little bit of sleep. Lydia was NOT amused to be up. We put her back to bed at 9:45 and she slept until 4 in the afternoon when we had her open up the rest of her gifts.

I went to bed at 6 am. I took a photo of the clock before I went off to bed. I like to have everything "just so." Julie gave us Jenga and we enjoyed playing the multiple times during the day. We had a yummy breakfast, napped for four hours, dinner, and then Ju and I saw a movie at 10. Fabulous, relaxing day filled with reflections of family.

We watched "come see the light," a six minute tear jerker video of Christ and all cried as we bore our testimonies to each other. That might be my favorite part of our day. I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and is enjoying their New Year.

...something blue

2011-01-02T15:14:00.000-08:00

My dear cousin Jessica ( the baby whisperer) just recently got married and that is one of many reasons for me lack of recent blog posts. So I am trying to catch up with events in order that they took place. I threw Jessica a shower at my mom's house and had a great time catching up with family. I invited Brad (the fiancee) so that everyone could have a chance to get to know him as well. We played a game in which we saw who of the guests was most like Brad, and some interesting tid bits about him came out ;) Also, we had the couple sit together as we all went around the room and gave them our marriage advice. Jessica was a great sport to wear the wig I bought for her to go along with the theme. Even with blue hair it is obvious she's a beautiful girl.

Christmas traditions

2010-12-13T20:30:00.000-08:00

Have a special stocking (preferably white) that is set aside as Christ's stocking. Each year have every family member go around and write down one gift of service they want to give Christ throughout the next year. For example, smile at five strangers every day, donate to the homeless shelter every month, visit the elderly every week, etc. Then the next year have each member of the family go around and share experiences they had while performing their gift. Then each person add s anew gift into the stocking for the upcoming year. We're starting this with Emma who is 4 and I think that is an appropriate age.

Luminaries were one of my favorite childhood traditions. In Arizona my parents went around to the neighbors and asked them to all have luminaries lining the sidewalks of our streets. It made for such an enchanted sight on Christmas Eve and really added to the spirit of unity. I will be asking the neighbors in our little cul-de-sac to participate this year with us. In Arizona brown paper bags worked great, but here we might have to use mason jars.

Lee's market place is my very favorite grocery store. They are always so great about baking bread specifically for you in any color you need. For every Holiday I like to special order colored bread and make a festive french toast or even just simple sandwiches. I have a buttermilk syrup recipe to go with french toast that is to die for and I like to color that as well.

A few years back my parents gave us all this book and encouraged us to read it by Christmas Eve so we could discuss it for our program. Then they gave us all jars and we started our own little collection of spare change. The next year we had such a great experience with finding just the right family/person to anonymously give it to. I think a mason jar and this book would make a fabulous gift.

The BEST TRADITION ever invented is the elf knock. The story goes that on Christmas Eve Santa sends one of his elves to go up ahead of him and knock on the window to signify that Santa will be there soon. The kids must then DASH off to bed as fast as they can, and if they wake up, or don't go to sleep, Santa will skip their house and not come. Sounds harsh, but we have yet to ever have a child not play along. Of all my nieces and nephews and all of the different personalities we have, we have never had a child get out of bed. I started this when Emma was two and it is just the cutest thing you've ever seen. Be sure to have your video camera out to capture the excitement. The best is that once the kids are down the adult program can start. It's nice to have a spiritual program without having the kids interrupting or worrying they might get up at any second while wrapping last minute gifts.

There wasn't a photo to show this, but this tradition started with my mom's dad, then passed down to my dad, and now this year Ryan will be doing it for our girls. On Christmas morning the kids wake up, etc. But they can't come to the family room where the gifts are until the dad goes to check and see if Santa has come, and if he has then he yells "Good ga'll he's been here!!" That's the signal for the kids to come running down the hall. I doubt anyone copies this tradition, but it was just such a tender part of my childhood and it meant so much knowing it all started from my Grandpa Earl.

Hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!

Noel

2010-12-08T16:07:00.000-08:00

I'm going to try not to write too many words since I am so sick of blogger. I will see it through until the end of the year and then I am switching to a different blogging world. Hopefully my words will match up with the photos....25 minutes later, nope, they don't. They'll be lumped down at the bottom for anyone who cares to read them and match them with the photos. But let's be realistic, people just want photos anyway.

Below is Lydia sporting this year's Christmas pajamas. I'm so glad I gave them to the girls early so they can be enjoying them.

Lydia is obsessed with "ANNIE!! Annie! Annie!"

I can't believe I don't have one single photo of my date night with my sisters and my mom, and a separate one of my sisters and my dad. But Ryan met me and the girls at the hotel after our date with my mom ended so we could take the girls swimming. They loved it, even though this is kind of a bad picture of all of us.

Emma is so good to let me do whatever I want to her hair. I did it up like Cindy-Loo-Hoo and got such a kick out of it.

Lydia is so good when Emma is in bed. She just plays quietly and loves to get into Emma's things knowing she can have free reign over her toys.

My parents had a delayed Thanksgiving dinner so my sisters could go with their in laws. We played some great game and all enjoyed our generous prize of the white elephant game....the kids especially :)

This is Elfie Noel. She lives with us until Christmas morning when she'll return with Santa. She moves through out the house periodically and keeps an eye on everyone. She makes sure there is Christmas spirit, love and service in our home. She reports back to Santa each night. She can only move if nobody is around to see her (like Toy story characters.) She is the best invention ever and I'm so glad we have her.
On December 5th was St.Nicholas Eve. If you leave your shoe outside your door the elves will put a gift in it in honor of St. Nicholas's birthday. Emma was lucky enough to have the "elves" fill the floor of her room with balloons. That meant more to her than anything.

This is such an accurate photo of my girls. Lydia trying to get on the computer to watch Shamu or Amals (animals), and Emma playing with her "friends" as she calls them. I don't know why, but these little girls love to take their pants off. Weird. I swear they are not just copying what they see at home.
Today I went over to my friend Carrie's house and she let me use her studio. She took all the photos for me and now I am green with jealousy that I don't have my own studio. Thanks again Carrie!!