Real Life Live

Learning...

2011-06-22T23:44:00.001-07:00

"We women have a lot to learn about simplifying our lives. We have to decide what is important and then move along at a pace that is comfortable for us. We have to develop the maturity to stop trying to prove something. We have to learn to be content with what we are."

Marjorie Pay Hinckley

maybe my most favorite moment of the entire weekend...

2011-02-20T22:55:00.003-07:00

there is nothing cuter than a 3 year old playing soccer.

...especially when there are 8 of them on the field all running in opposite directions.

...especially when one of them (namely: Ty) runs off the field 10 minutes into playing and says, "I'm tired."

...especially when their socks are so big they cover their entire leg.

...especially when asked what their favorite part of the game was - answer: "The tunnel was awesome!"

I'm so glad I have eight more weeks of this to look forward to.

obsessed

2011-02-18T13:31:00.006-07:00

the girly-ness of these... the smell of this...

the taste of this...

the fun of this...

the cleaning power of this...
(because my day is not complete unless I've cleaned something, right?)

Happy Friday!

you know who you are...

2011-02-13T22:43:00.002-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Quotable

2011-02-02T22:08:00.000-07:00

"Any powerful idea is absolutely fascinating and absolutely useless until we choose to use it."

Richard Bach

Quotable

2011-01-29T22:07:00.001-07:00

"If you only do what you know you can do - you never do very much."

Tom Krause

Quotable

2011-01-21T22:04:00.001-07:00

"A fool with a plan can outsmart a genius with no plan."

T. Boone Pickens

Quotable

2011-01-19T22:03:00.000-07:00

"There are no shortcuts to any place worth going."

- Beverly Sills

So I've been thinking...

2011-01-04T14:56:00.002-07:00

...which can be good or could be bad

But almost always includes an extra long list of things to accomplish which is an {almost} perfect way to start a new year. Dontcha think?

So here's a preview of the list

clean out garage cabinets
organize office closet
refold linen closet
decorate a baby room
move the washer and dryer and clean underneath ***really looking forward to this one

The real list is a bit longer - those are just the highlights :)

Happy January 4th

Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T23:12:00.002-07:00

2011 is going to be a good one. I think we're due for a GREAT one!

Looking forward to a few things...

Eric D will turn 37

I'll get to snuggle Baby #4 (a G-I-R-L!!!)

Drew will make his first trip to Disneyland and go to kindergarten

Celebrating an 11th anniversary :)

Ethan will turn 8 and be baptized

Ty will get to try out his independence in preschool

YEP - a good year is coming our way.

sometimes it feels good to be bad...

2010-11-05T14:50:00.002-07:00

I shirked all responsbility this week and went to Disneyland - with my sister Val. Left the kids at home and it was a really spontaneous trip. I totally owe Eric D now but it was worth it. We had fun, we laughed and we wore bug glasses.

This weekend my sister Becky is in town and so I'll do a lot of abandoning of responsibilty but closer to home.

For now though...I must be responsible and go pick up Ethan from school.

Happy Friday!

the boys... and me

2010-10-21T23:37:00.003-07:00

I often call them my entourage as they get toted around to meetings and on errands - usually walking a few feet behind me as I rush around - often carrying a toolbox full of trucks or a bag with coloring or (Drew's favorite) a "spy" notebook. They're usually good sports unless of course I beg them ahead of time to be on their best behavior and then they try to be as naughty as possible.

Here's the latest on my entourage:

Ty starts every sentence with "HEEELLLLOOO" - very 11-teen-year-old-ish.

His favorite response to anything I ask is "NO WAY MOM!" (Unless I ask Ethan or Drew to do something and then he's all over it)

He has incredible dancing skills. All my kids have rhythm but Ty takes it to a whole new level.

Sick and tired of his carseat - he begs to sit in a booster.

He'll still let me cuddle him when he is tired or lazy but wipes off every kiss I give him.

Drew just makes life so easy.

He loves to play with friends and would have someone over every day if I was up for it.

Eats like a bird but is always on the lookout for sugar, sweets and dessert.

Just learned to drop in on his skateboard and moved up to Rippers 1. Was so proud of himself that I almost cried.

Ethan gets funnier every day.

Quotes movies and gives nicknames to his friends.

Doing really well in school but has a hard time sitting still (ahem... Eric D)

Loves to read, learning to love piano and is a really good big brother - cheers them on and comforts them - at least when he isn't torturing them.

Really glad that I'm their mom.

something to look forward to...

2010-10-11T09:03:00.002-07:00

We are recovering from the sort of weekend that you have to keep watching the clock.

Be there at 10 - next stop at 12:30.
Ready by 2 - cleaned up by 4:45.
Hot food at 5 - on to the next by 7.
...and over and over again.

Needless to say we made minimal efforts on our day of rest.

Today starts fall break and so we're cleaning and lining up a week o' fun. I'm craving me some fall colors so if I get my way (which I usually do) - we'll be heading north and I'll have to bring a sweatshirt for everyone. I'll probably convince Eric D to stop and get some hot chocolate and I'll try hard not to worry about muddy shoes or mountainy bugs. It'll be lovely.

Looking forward to this new week...

October - 75 degrees - PERFECT

2010-10-08T12:12:00.003-07:00

It doesn't take all that much to make me happy. Really. All it took this week was 75 degrees, some rain and a house decorated for Halloween.

Been planning the annual HALLOWEEN PARTY - we always look forward to it.

Putting together the last minute details for a baby shower tomorrow. All it took was one creative idea and taaaa-daaaa - SUPER CUTE SHOWER with minimal effort.

REALLY enjoyed Conference last weekend. All the sessions I didn't fall asleep in. Plus Eric was home from a long (too long) trip so it made it extra fun to lounge around with him.

A few things I learned this year while being inspired to be a better me:

sacrifices are made out of pure love

victory tunnels are important

listen to a Prophet's voice

"Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel" is my favorite hymn

we cannot love what we do not know

work & leisure are great companions

milestones can become millstones

am I practicing selective obedience?

black out evil from our homes and lives

choose FAITH

the prophets will teach us when we are listening with our hearts

agency is a precious thing

marriage stands!

refuse to remain in the realm of negativity

Harvest Moon, Pumpkin Bread and an Ice Cream Truck

2010-09-23T14:11:00.004-07:00

What do those three things have in common??? They've occupied my thoughts for the last 48 hours.

Tonight is the Harvest Moon - so I hear.

(wiki says: The harvest moon is the moon at or about the period of fullness that is nearest to the autumnal equinox. The harvest moon is often mistaken for the modern day hunter's moon.) Now you know.

I hope I catch a glimpse of it tonight.

Made pumpkin bread hoping it would make fall come faster in AZ. Unfortunately, while tasty, I think the oven mostly just heated up the house. Oh well.

Summer must not be over here because yesterday I spent 20 mins online searching for one of these for sale. Guess I was hoping that someone was giving one away. No such luck.

Alas... I slack.

2010-09-17T21:32:00.004-07:00

It was bound to happen. This week has been a doozy. I think I've been gone every night. Not complaining, just sayin'

This could have been me the other night since I procrastinated something kinda important. Except I don't drink anything out of a mug, or wear an earpiece or gold jewelry. And I NEVER wear lipstick.

But...

Home tonight and catching up. I wiped three days of milk, syrup and cheese off of my counters. I should prob mop but the only mop solution I have right now is Pine Sol and I'm not sure I want my whole house to smell pine fresh for the next three days. It can be kind of nauseating.

My laundry really wants to be folded. If I wait too much longer it will prob want to be rewashed and I'm not really up for that. I already found a load in the dryer that was wet. I'm thinking I forgot to turn it on but I'm really not sure how long it has been there. My car could use a good cleaning out since Ty threw one of those drinkable yogurts at Drew yesterday. I'm going to have to do it myself since the local carwash is really good at avoiding anything that resembles dirt.

Tomorrow I want to buy a big curling iron. The kind that will give me fat curls like Jennifer Aniston in the movie Switch that I just saw tonight. All by myself. Haven't done that since Boston. Only that time I cried in the movie theatre, by myself, because I was so lonely. This time I really enjoyed it. What a difference a decade (+1) makes.

Her hair was a bit cuter in the movie but let's face it - after one day in AZ this is what my fat-curling-ironed-hair will prob look like only a little shorter and prob greasier.

Till next time... with a funny story to share about Ty.

do more & be more

2010-09-11T14:25:00.004-07:00

I've got resolutions that are unfinished from two years ago. 2009 was going to be a really good year. I accomplished a lot but fell short of the goal. It's typical. What can I say, I dream big.

2010 has been a bit of a whirlwind. I can't believe it is September 11th - I can remember that day - just like everyone else. What I ate for breakfast, how I found out about the attack on America, and not a single plane in the sky for days. But for the life of me, I can't remember much of anything about 2010. It's been a bit of a blur.

Is it really September? What happened to the last 8 months?

Miss ya Mom. She'd tell me to "get over it" and to stop wasting so much energy on worrying about myself. She'd tell me to get busy serving others and everything else would fall into place.

So I'm gonna do more & be more. Starting today.

(P.S. Ethan took this picture in April 2008 - Mom came to visit for my birthday)

motivation

2010-09-09T09:32:00.000-07:00

...is lacking here.

I have less of a desire to clean up, pick up, make dinner, organize or be productive in any way, shape or form.

I call it a slump (a.k.a. a hiccup, speedbump, slacker day or L.A.Z.Y.)

And of course we all have them. Mine is just very obvious since it is spilled out on every floor, counter and corner in my house.

I went to the gym today ... first time in a month or so. I thought that getting my blood pumping would help. But now I just hurt and I think lounging sounds more my speed.

Spent a couple of minutes looking at some old pictures the other day. Reminds me of my favorite parenting advice EVER.

THE DAYS ARE LONG BUT THE YEARS ARE SHORT.

Now that's some motivation.

make yourself happy

2010-09-08T08:30:00.001-07:00

the tuesday that feels like a monday

2010-09-07T14:53:00.003-07:00

I'm a little thrown off by Monday holidays. I think all holidays should fall on Fridays because everyone looks forward to a weekend but you have to change your whole mindset to get excited about a Monday.

Another little thing about September...

I keep hearing that Fall is coming but in Arizona - we've still got about two more months of summer. When Nordstrom sells boots during its anniversary sale I actually find myself depressed knowing that if I buy boots, they are more than likely out of style by the time it makes any sense to wear them here.

So for those who keep writing or alluding to the fact that fall is surrounding us and pumpkin lattes taste good right now. Please know that I hear you but I won't be listening until mid-November.

if i have my way...

2010-09-04T11:19:00.003-07:00

Sometimes I get a bee in my bonnet. Sometimes those bees take up my time. Other times those bees take my money. Usually they take both.

I'm feeling the need for wallpaper.

Which leads to new flooring and baseboards and paint and ... well you can see where I might end up and who has the time and money for that.

Sometimes doing nothing is the best therapy.

Here today...Gone to Maui

2010-08-30T22:23:00.003-07:00

Awesome vacation - lots to brag about.
Missed the kids enough to get on the plane and actually come home.

When in Maui...

Ride a zipline

Get a massage

Lay by the pool

Order the Mahi Mahi

Drive the road to Hana

Shop

Snorkel

Try Aloha Mixed Plate - yummy!

Go to Big Beach - best sand ever

Sit in the hot tub

See a rainbow

Drink a Lava Flow

Stop at a roadside stand and buy pineapple

Hike to one of two blowholes in the world

Jump off a waterfall

Eat banana macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup... a lot.

For optimum vacation fun - bring great friends and live it up!

Words to Live By

2010-08-19T12:00:00.001-07:00

It's kind of fun to do the

IMPOSSIBLE

-Walt Disney-

Candy Shops & Bakeries

2010-08-18T09:00:00.002-07:00

Gilbert is in desperate need of candy shops and bakeries - a Nordstrom and Crate & Barrel wouldn't hurt either... baby steps people.

And being the sugar loving, tasty treating, lover of all things deliciousness that I am (I inherited the gene - it's really not my fault) I sometimes dream about sweet stuff.

Which leads me to this place...because I don't even know if I could have dreamt up something this amazing.

Can you believe it?

Visit Sweets Indeed and enter into a visual sugar coma.

tuesday

2010-08-17T08:03:00.002-07:00

tuesday

martes

mardi

dienstag

tisdag

martedì

火曜日

utorak

tiistai

What's not to love about Tuesdays?

Particularly when this place has a

delicious martes lunch special that calls my name

And 200 of my closest friends at exactly the same time = long line but worth it

Upgrade - Redo - Start Over

2010-08-16T10:23:00.004-07:00

been upgrading my blog, my hair-do and my laundry routine...

more changes coming soon to my real life.

In the meantime - read the article YOU HAVE SUPERPOWERS for a little inspiration.

Everyone needs a few of those.

I should be _________

2010-06-01T22:04:00.003-07:00

Ever have one of those nights when you should be ______________ but instead you are _________ ? Let me give you a "for instance"...

Tonight I should be folding laundry but instead I'm blogging.

Today I should have been cleaning up my kitchen but instead I was swimming.

This morning I should have been working out but instead I was dreaming about Sweet Tooth Fairy cupcakes.

Tomorrow I should get my oil changed and my car washed but I think instead I will read a book.

I JUST LOVE SUMMER!!! It gives me a license to put off the necessary and to make time for slacking. I've got that "I can just do it tomorrow" attitude. And it feels GREAT!

I think he's cute

2010-05-20T16:34:00.003-07:00

Don't you?

He's also a TON of work. I could follow this one around all day and make cleaning up after him a full time job. (He's banging on a metal bucket RIGHT NOW - a metal bucket that is very loud that I've hid from him a half a dozen times.)

But....

He's also a TON of fun and has this fantastic personality and I'm loving getting to know this little boy. He is in full-swing of becoming himself - and I really like him.

And yes those are his real eyelashes - it's one of the real inequalities in life that a boy would get such fabulous lashes.

I've Been Away

2010-04-18T23:29:00.002-07:00

I've been gone a while - seems like forever. Trying to make this week normal - the "NEW" normal.

Anytime someone asked how we were doing last week, Eric would answer "We're digging out." It has actually felt like physical work to make ourselves get back into the swing of things. Plus, I don't think I realized how physically exhausted I was from all that we've tried to accomplish over the last several weeks and months.

My to do list is long...but I need to do the IMPORTANT things first. The "URGENT" things can wait. My mom seemed to understand that better than most.

P.S. I've really missed spending time with my sisters this week - I kinda got used to being with them. I liked sharing clothes and hair products and makeup again. Miss you Beck & Val!

VALENTINES - Coming soon!

2010-01-12T14:31:00.001-07:00

Will you be my V-A-L-E-N-T-I-N-E?
If you do you'll surely know how happy I will be.

Sugar Spice and all that's nice
That's what you are to me

Will you be my V-A-L-E-N-T-I-N-E?

Home

2009-12-13T22:07:00.004-07:00

Just got back this afternoon from spending the weekend with my Mom and family in Utah. It was a great weekend away and I'm feeling lucky to have spent the time with some of the most amazing people :). As always, it is nice to be HOME. There is something so comforting about HOME.

Moments like these...

2009-11-29T21:58:00.002-07:00

Caught this quiet moment between Eric and Ethan - a quick shoe-tying lesson in the midst of Christmas Lights and bike riding. Makes me love both of them even more.

What are YOU thankful for?

2009-11-22T08:29:00.002-07:00

(Turn of the music by pushing pause way down at the bottom.)

Did I tell you that...

2009-11-21T16:57:00.006-07:00

Ty has a girlfriend and her name is Addi and when Eric says to Ty "Do you love Daddy?" he says "NO! I wuv Addi!"

And....

We all got to be in the Gilbert Days Parade last Saturday and the boys LOVED it - although I'm not sure that in the years to come they will agree to wearing I LOVE GILBERT tees.

And...

Did I mention that we are having PERFECT fall weather - with just enough cloud to cast the coolest shadows - the kind where you say goodbye to the sun to just say hello again.

XXOO
Jenn

A Perfect Fall Day

2009-11-20T16:12:00.002-07:00

We are all outside now - waiting for Eric to get home from a long week of driving. The boys are all riding around on something with wheels {they don't discriminate} and I'm glad it is Friday. A perfect Fall Friday to be exact. We have a couple of things to look forward to tonight but mostly I'll just be glad when we are all together. Eric really does make everything more fun.

XXOO
Jenn

Meant to post these but....

2009-11-10T17:45:00.004-07:00

I'm not so good at reporting on Holidays. So here's the low-down on our HALLOWEEN fanfare (PS It's one of our favorite holidays and so we try to really do it up around here.)

The Wallin-Daniels Annual Halloween Party was a smashing success - thanks to the Wallins who know how to throw a REAL party. Ryan's band, (who's name escapes me at the moment) was really good - and I hear they like to play for Weddings and Bar-Mitzvahs in case you're looking. {Almost} Everyone came in costume and the mechanical bull was a nice touch. Lots asked how we were going to out-do ourselves next year - short answer is - stay tuned - we've already started planning Halloween 2010.

Here are some of the highlights (thanks to Rob Konieczny for walking around all night and capturing the action)

Did I mention that my bro and his FIANCE came down to party with us? We had a blast with them!

Be Where Your Feet Are

2009-11-01T17:13:00.002-07:00

I loved that quote... just thought I'd share - I'm trying really hard to live it.

P.S. Happy November!

nothing like cotton candy, curly fries, indian fry bread, funnel cakes, deep fried twinkies and chocolate dipped ice cream cones on a friday afternoon

2009-10-16T22:07:00.005-07:00

So glad we took the time to go to the Arizona State Fair today. We had so much fun and I forgot how fun carni rides are. and the food - don't get me started on the food. I'd love to go back at night to see the lights

{but really its to people watch cuz really there is nothing like a fair to bring out EVERY walk of life}

Take it Outside

2009-10-16T21:31:00.003-07:00

October is a near-perfect month. And so we take everything outside

- even a movie.

Where to go...

2009-10-04T22:46:00.002-07:00

I NEED a vacaction - where should I go?

Lovin' this MELLOW Weekend

2009-10-04T20:53:00.002-07:00

Although it may never come again, I can't help but be glad that some weekends are like this one. Very little on the "must do" list - even less on the "honey-do" list (Eric's been a bit under the weather) and whole lot on the "whatever you feel like" list. This amounted to bikerides, cinnamon roles, bubbles, forts, naps for some and folding laundry for others. Three words for a lazy weekend like this one - LIVE IT UP!

Staying up late...

2009-10-01T23:55:00.004-07:00

Have you seen this kid lately? Probably not because this is the best picture I can get of him because he doesn't sit down or stop moving and he never, ever, not ever, stops playing.

I have four minutes until October 1st is over and I think I'll share bits and pieces of my day (cause frankly I don't think you want to know about cleaning out the fridge - but I did that too)

Took E & neighbor boy to school - they laughed hysterically as Ty pointed out the "Poo Bus" (i.e. School Bus) - Made some pumpkin cookies that didn't look that pretty but tasted very fall-ish - Colored a little boy's hair for "Blue Day" - he told me he had FIVE blue things on - "My underpants, my shirt right here, this eye, this eye and my spiky hair." - Worked a little but snuck in a mini-nap too - played at the park - rode bikes - washed out the blue & the sand - went to a meeting - came home and opened all my windows to celebrate 70 degrees and the first day of my favorite month

Been waiting for you October - so glad you're here! {Please don't bring a single heat wave}

Looking very forward to this weekend!

Oh yea... decorated last weekend for Halloween - my very most favorite holiday to decorate for. Said goodbye to sand and shells and lemons and hello to lots of orange and black and glitter. [sorry about the bad pics but you get the point]

I'm watching you...

2009-09-24T13:43:00.005-07:00

Found this picture of Drew from our trip to Panguitch this summer... I love this picture - one of the rare times that I've caught one of the true and unaltered moments of life with my camera - and it actually turned out! In case you didn't know, Eric is the paparazzi around here. I always trick myself into thinking that I'll remember that moment - but who am I kidding - I can't remember what I ate for breakfast this morning... wait, did I even eat breakfast this morning?

And so I vow to carry the camera with me - it really does no good in the office closet.

Some things I miss...Some things I don't

2009-09-24T13:20:00.002-07:00

Had our carpets cleaned last week - we've only had it done 2x in the 4+ years we've lived here {gross I know} - we like to wait until we really can't stand it anymore, until we're ready to tear out the carpet and get the memory foam carpet pad that we dream about {nevermind that we'd have to take out a second mortgage} and then we spend a small fraction of that pricetag and get them cleaned and everything seems right {and clean} again in the world.

We moved all the furniture, paid Ethan $2 to clean ALL the baseboards {money well spent I might add} and took apart all the cords for the tv/cable/dvd. It has been nearly a week and those cords are still left dangling. I haven't missed that tv/cable/dvd mess one single second {take that back, for one second when Ty was crying and I knew the Monster Truck DVD would do the trick, I did miss it} but our house has been eerily silent of something that brings big smiles and lost of stress relief - MUSIC!!!

Oh how I've missed my music - the songs the kids really dance to, the songs that make me feel like I'm making a *delicious-unmicrowaved-dinner* for my family, that songs that get my bootie going when I MUST, MUST, MUST clean up our messes and then the songs that I play when the kids are asleep and the house seems calm and then so do I.

So today, I'll be reconnecting the speakers but I think I'll just ignore the tv/cable/dvd mess and we'll go ride bikes in our FALL 96 degree weather instead. Sounds like a plan.

How to be Creative...

2009-09-13T16:19:00.002-07:00

I'm no expert. I actually covet other's creativity since I seem to be lacking in this department since...well...forever. The good news is that I am an excellent copy-cat. And so I am taking Rhonna Farer's 21-day Challenge. Come along if you feel like it.

{21 days from now is actually conference weekend so you can bet that I'll be catching up while filling up my spiritual well}

Is there a rule that the creative juices won't kick in unless it is after 10pm, 44oz. Diet Coke and some form of real sugar/chocolate closeby? Let's just hope I can avoid the late-nite run to Circle K!

A day or two at HOME

2009-08-27T13:47:00.006-07:00

Happy 4th of July - What do you mean that was almost two months ago????

I needed a day or two at home to get myself out of crazy mode and into organized-happy (those two words are actually interchangeable for me) sane mode. Too bad Ty had to be sick for me to cancel appointments and make myself actually realize that my priorities need a-fixin'. My excuse is a good one and so far, the results are just what we needed around here. I'm spending the day cleaning out files, checking a few things off the LLLLOOOONNNNGGGG to do list and realizing exactly what's been missing for the last few weeks/months. Thought I'd take a sec to post a few pictures too. Trip to Iowa, 1st day of school, Erin's wedding party, a birthday or two and some randoms that at one point I thought would be a good idea...poor follow through :)

I've been feeling the need to be a little more creative in my life - so don't be surprised if you end up with a handmade {but let's be real - prob only half-finished} Christmas present this year. Always the best of intentions...

Important Lessons from a Professional

2009-07-11T17:14:00.004-07:00

I taught my son how to impulse buy today. It is a lost art you know...

Went to Toys R Us so that Drew - now four - could spend some of his birthday money. He picked up a killer Batman guy with looming alien and then on the way to check out spotted these BATMAN shades that he couldn't live without - and I completely understood.

These other guys are pretty cute too...

It's Official!

2009-06-16T22:48:00.002-07:00

I got sworn in tonight and now all complaints, comments, problems (and solutions!) can officially come to me! Thank you GILBERT! I'm feeling like one lucky girl! Pictures coming soon...

It's time...

2009-06-06T16:39:00.003-07:00

I can't believe how long it has been - sorta kinda busy lately - I almost forgot my username and password it has been so long. I'll put up the update tomorrow, complete with pics, and then we'll move forward - since life obviously is moving forward at a pace I simply can't ignore.

I'VE MISSED YOU TOO!

Family Pics

2009-03-13T15:35:00.003-07:00

Took some pictures with the family when Joel came home and just got my CD in the mail. Dion Seneca was the photographer - she is super talented and made it easy so if you are in the St. George area and need a good picture, check out her blog and get in touch with her.

And the WINNER is...

2009-03-13T14:50:00.002-07:00

What a great Tuesday we had. I'm feeling terrible that I haven't posted the results and I know that there may be a few of you out there who just might be afraid to ask...you know, for fear that it will make me start crying or something.

I will keep you in suspense no longer...SUCCESS!!! I received the 2nd most votes out of the seven candidates which means that I go on to the General Election on May 17th. It was great day and I am just thrilled with the results. Less you think I will now have time for scrapbooking and more blog posts, I must dissapoint. We now have 9 MORE weeks of campaigning and NOW the REAL WORK begins. I am not afraid. I am not discouraged. I have more resolve than ever that this is something I NEED to be doing. But... I also know that I cannot do it alone. I do know that WE {that means me + all of you} can do it together!!!

So...thank you for all the support and WE will keep working HARD!

Can't Hardly Wait till Tuesday

2009-03-09T23:11:00.003-07:00

It is 11:11pm as I write this. In less than 24 hours I will have a pretty good idea if I'm still going to be a candidate for Gilbert Town Council. TOMORROW {actually in 48 minutes} it will be Election Day and I'm very excited about the day, the voting, the unknown opportunities, all to be born on March 10th. You see, I've never been to the polling place to vote for myself - it is a bit surreal, a bit overwhelming, and a bit nail-biting jump up and down exciting!

Regardless of the outcome, I've never been so glad that I took on such a humongous challenge. It brings new respect for that old saying, "If it wasn't hard, it wouldn't be worth it." It's TRUE!

I'm feeling like ONE lucky girl - no matter what happens tomorrow.

Lessons from Peter Pan

2009-03-04T23:02:00.002-07:00

Just before dinner tonight, after I had called all boys to the table, told them to wash their hands, verified beverage choices and finally asked someone to give the prayer, Drew said,

"GIRLS TALK TOO MUCH."

When I gave him my dissapproving Mom look - I've been working on it a lot lately - Drew said,

"WHAT?!! IT'S FROM PETER PAN!"

The things that stick - never ceases to amaze me.

Daniels Family by the NUMBERS

2009-03-01T17:50:00.002-07:00

{3} sick kids

{9} days till the election

{2} hours that Drew will spend in speech therapy each week starting tomorrow

{1} eighteen month old who is absolutely the

most work of any of our kids put together

{32} cadbury mini eggs consumed by Jenn just today

{11} number of projects on Eric's honey do list

{85} degrees today - the pool is heating

{217} friends Eric has on facebook

{4} average hours of sleep nightly for Jenn

{29 and a half} Jenn's age published by the East Valley Tribune - seriously

{4} dinners Jenn cooked last week

{0} dinners Jenn will cook this week

{7} loads of laundry to fold tonight

{3} baths to give, jammies to put on and kids to snuggle

{1} productive day in March so far - not bad

BIG FAVOR!

2009-02-26T20:07:00.002-07:00

If there is anyone left who reads my blog, I'm asking for a BIG favor! Many of you know that I am running for Gilbert Town Council and one of my biggest challenges is getting my name out there. To increase my visibility in Google and other search engines, I was wondering (hoping, pleading, begging) that you might be able to put a link to my website somewhere on your own blog? Here's how it works best - if you could write in a post my name (Jenn Daniels) and then put somewhere that I am running for Gilbert Town Council - (here's the little bit tricky part) - hyperlink Gilbert Town Council with my web address www.voteforjenn.com - sounds harder than it is - (to create a hyperlink just click on the green earth symbol when you are creating a post and follow the prompts). MANY, MANY THANKS as we work to really make a big push during these last few weeks before the election.

He's Home!

2009-02-20T14:43:00.003-07:00

My bro is home from the Philippines. We had a great weekend with him and he is officially available for dates with cute, smart, kind girls in the 20 - 25 age range. Spread the word! Just another note about Joel - some people come back from the mission a little ... how shall we say... socially inept. Not my brother. He's still funny, easy to be with, happy and a little bit cocky. Post-mission we can now add the following characteristics: smart, spiritual, hard-working and thoughful. Really - he is the new and improved version of his former self. Gotta love him!

LOVIN' AZ

2009-02-03T21:55:00.003-07:00

Just thought I'd throw this out there...

Feb 4
Partly Cloudy
High 85°

Low 47°

Looking forward to it!

A Little Post about Eric D

2009-02-01T23:08:00.003-07:00

While I certainly deserve to go to bed right now, my husband deserves a mighty good blogpost even more. He did in fact have a birthday this week - and now he sports the number 35! When I look at all that he has accomplished in this life I can only say "I KNEW IT!" - it has always been easy to see the potential in Eric and it must be said that he has exceeded all expectations. And I must share with you his most amazing qualities...

1. Supportive - we recently attended an event that required nametags - his read "Eric - Jenn's husband" Seriously, that is an act of solidarity.

2. Funny - he still says some funny stuff that makes me laugh until I cry, or pee, or stuff comes out of my nose. ***because it is nearly midnight I can't actually think of anything funny but I can tell you that I spent most of last night at Eric's birthday dinner with my legs crossed :)

3. Great Dad - you've never met a guy who would rather play with his kids than do ANYTHING else - it is actually hard to think of a hobby that Eric has simply because he spends any and all free time with the boys

4. Ingenious - Eric is always coming up with creative solutions to our everyday problems. Most of those solutions include zip ties, glue, duct tape or a special trip to Home Depot but they always result in problems solved. I wonder sometimes if this is why he has a hard time sleeping.

5. Totally the most observant man alive - I try to sneak stuff past him, I really do. He notices everything!!! This has its downsides - but he can remember directions anywhere, has a great eye for style and he'll tell me the honest truth when I need help with an outfit or picking out bedding.

6. Last but not least - Eric is supremely thoughtful! He'll bring me a cup of water, often stops at the grocery store or Costco without being asked, he is ALWAYS willing to watch the kids or give me a break and he is quick to respond to others in need.

Happy Birthday Eric D!

This was breakfast in bed - biscuits and gravy - at his request!

His fav is homemade blueberry pie - hence the birthday pie instead of cake!

Gotta LOVE January in AZ!

2009-01-24T21:50:00.002-07:00

Try very hard not to be too jealous of these pictures...

Truth be told, I triple dog dared him to jump in the pool. It might be another couple of months before I can get Ethan back in the water. Moms have to have a little fun :)

I've been meaning to post pictures of this very cool FORT that spent nearly four days in my family room and was constantly being remodeled. I just couldn't take it any longer...plus there was enough food stored inside to = food storage. I was afraid we'd attract rodents if we didn't vacuum.

GG - YOU ROCK!

2008-12-28T14:16:00.004-07:00

My grandma / a.k.a. GG / has been here this entire week. I have LOVED having her here as she instinctively knows how to add her two hands to my two hands and we've gotten so much done! I literally had Christmas taken down by Friday at 11:00am - and my china cabinet was cleaned out too! That seriously would have taken me two days to get all that done! Not only that but GG has been a great shopping partner, mani/pedi accomplice and she gives some of the very best advice around. She should totally have an advice booth at the fair - people would walk away feeling so loved and so empowered!

GG also helped me get over my fear of the English Toffee recipe the failure of which has haunted me every Christmas since I got married (story is that my mom has made it every year since forever - it's not really Christmas without it - only when I have tried to do it myself, RUINED - an entire pound of butter scorched! Turns out I was making it far more complicated than it actually was. Who knew?!!!).

Mostly I'm just grateful that GG takes the time to sit and chat and that she uses lots of flowing adjectives (lovely, wonderful, gorgeous, exceptional, adorable, the list goes on...) that just make me feel good about myself and the little life that Eric and I have created here. She has a talent for talking to people, making them feel appreciated and leaving them better than before. My boys have LOVED having her here...she has played with them, hugged them, fed them and when needed, scolded them (she's never has much patience with an ungrateful child!). Mostly GG has just LOVED 'em and that was all they needed.

Last night, after a fun dinner and movie, Drew took one look at GG as she came around the corner and said "WHOA! You are having a bad hair day!" Eric and I couldn't stop laughing - GG had her hair done just before we left to go on our date - it was a little bigger than usual. But how does a 3 year old know what a bad hair day is??? GG just laughed and told him how cute he was.

Oh, and her favorite channel is Hallmark which means that we've been watching lots of "feel good" movies that make me grateful I'm not some washed up childhood actress - thanks mom for ignoring my pleas to go to the Barbazon School for Modeling and Acting - that totally could have been me!

If you have a GG, consider yourself lucky! I'm forever grateful for her wisdom, her energy and that she shared this great week with me! LOVE YOU GG!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T22:29:00.000-07:00

We hope you had a wonderful Christmas!

Love,

The Daniels

Seven Days

2008-12-17T20:30:00.005-07:00

Christmas has been pretty crazy around here. I thought that I was super prepared. But as we tore another link off the chain tonight - I counted just SEVEN days until Christmas. WHAT???!!! That means that December is nearly over and I have been so busy getting Christmas ready that I forgot to worship Christ. That sounds a little sacreligious and I certainly don't mean to be but I'm pretty sure that lots of you feel the same way I do. Every girl/lady/hot mama that I have talked to over the last few days has said that exact same thing: "My house looks like a bomb went off and I have so much to do!" or something along those lines. While I'm so glad to know that I'm not alone in my quest for perfect holiday house, treat plates and Christmas cards - we've got to do something about the chaos. And so I share this link with you - one I stole from my friend Angie (who is super good at putting things into perspective) - and I beg you to read it. Take ten minutes out of the next seven days to put Christ back in Christmas. I feel better already.

Lucky!

2008-12-15T20:46:00.003-07:00

Feelin' sorta lucky these days. I have healthy, happy kids - three of 'em - with big blue eyes and silly-ness that is just part of them. We laugh everyday with these guys. And I can say this now as they are tucked quietly into their beds snoring away...they are pretty dang cute (says their mother.)

I have a husband who still thinks I'm cute and laughs at/with me even when I probably deserve a time-out (the ultimate punishment/reward depending on the offender).

We have a house and a job and lots of opportunities to serve and be served. And while I'm feeling a little crazy because of this....

I'm feeling extra blessed because I know that win or lose, it's what I'm supposed to be doing. So mark your calendars all you Gilbert people - March 10th is THE VOTE. To the inevitable question, why in the hec are you doing this? My pat answer is because I have lots of spare time. The real answer is because I simply don't think that we can the leave the values and morals of our communities in the hands of other people. For the long and lengthly version of this answer, just call me.

Blogging Failure

2008-12-02T15:58:00.002-07:00

I just want to let everyone who still reads my blog know that I am actually admitting the true and undeniable: I SUCK AT BLOGGING.

I am overwhelmed and let's face it, we're understaffed around here. The cook hasn't been showing up and when she does it's just chicken nuggets and mac & cheese. The maid has thrown in her dusting rag and it looks like she hasn't washed the windows for months! The nanny spends all her time driving kids around and is always one step behind the kids messes. The groundsman, landscaper and part-time janitor have colds - the miserable kind that makes you whine and beg for breakfast in bed and hack up some stuff. As you can see, I have lots to blog about but just not enough energy to blog it.

I think the bottom line is that the people who are good at scrapbooking (i.e. my friend Amy - who is pretty much good at everything) are also good at blogging. So much for my hope that blogging would become my new scrapbook. No pressure.

Magic Grandpa

2008-11-07T16:01:00.003-07:00

Magic Grandpa (a.k.a. Jack Daniels) came over and helped us set up the head on a table magic trick. We had this going on Halloween and made lots of new friends while people stood there and tried to figure it out. Can you guess?

It's a little more impressive when it's live but you get the point. The kids are all about magic and it's really funny because lately, they have been making my money disappear. :)

Halloween Pics

2008-11-07T15:47:00.004-07:00

We had a fun Halloween. Three little boys - high on sugar - into costumes simulateously is no small task. I had plans to get dressed up but didn't quite make it. Here are some pics from the Ward party and then the big night.

You have to click on the picture above to get the full effect of exactly how 3-year-old boys act when they've eaten an entire bag of skittles.

Pies for sale!

2008-11-07T15:28:00.006-07:00

But not the kind you really wanted.

Sent the Ethan and Drew with their buddy Carson outside for some sandbox time. Ended up with this. Good thing I grabbed the camera.

I'm pretty sure that this is what little boys in heaven do all day long. You've never heard such laughter! Wanna know how we got them cleaned up? A garden hose and a swimming pool. Good as new!

PROP 102 PASSED!

2008-11-05T22:12:00.002-07:00

....and now we can all sleep for a few days before it's back to work! Seriously how blessed we are!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-28T16:52:00.003-07:00

Eric and I had our "sometimes" annual Halloween Party last Saturday. It was SUPER FUN!!! Thanks to the Wallins for making it all come together...it seriously woundn't have happened without them. The decorations were spooky, the food was yummy and the Karaoke was off the chiz-ain! We took lots of pics to prove it.

See if you can find Eric in the mix. He stayed in character all night which made for some very funny moments. Kinda reminded me of Eric D. 1999-ish - for those of you who were around then you know exactly what I'm talking about. You'll appreciate the fact that 10 years later, it only takes a costume and a Red Bull for the "good-time kid" to reappear. We're not so old after all.

Adios Mullet!

2008-10-28T15:04:00.003-07:00

Gotta document the mullet being chopped off. He still doesn't have much on top but he sure had a party in the back that I just couldn't wait to get rid of. Ty was so excited to sit in the driver's seat but when those clippers started buzzing he just about jumped out. I should have expected it from the kid who is deathly afraid of the vacuum. When it was all over, I think he liked his new 'do.

Before....

After... Ty is a constant source of entertainment. We just love this little guy!

Everything I Needed to Know - I Learned in Conference

2008-10-12T22:29:00.002-07:00

Last weekend was another inspiring weekend - I just love General Conference! I wondered today (when I spend the majority of the time chasing Ty through the church halls) why we don't always have church in our pajamas in front of the TV. Then I remembered that little thing called The Sacrament. (Plus I'd probably get fat(ter) because it's so easy to run to the kitchen during the choir songs)
I learned lots...here are the highlights.

The BEST is yet to be.

Teach patriotism to your children.

Be a missionary.

PEOPLE are the most important.

Find your own Waldon Pond.

A testimony is a process.

Hope fills our lives with happiness.

Reach out to others.

I'm a good shopper - therefore I found a good husband.

Ponder.

Be a peacemaker.

"True disciples of Christ speak with quiet confidence,

not boastful pride."

Virtue matters.

Boys wear a white shirt to church.

Care for yourself and sacrifice for those in need.

"You don't know everything, but you know enough."

Pray that the gospel will be spread to every corner of the earth.

"You pile up enough tomorrows and you'll find

you have collected a lot of empty yesterdays."

Peace be unto thy soul...

CHECK IT!

2008-10-08T08:51:00.002-07:00

My sister BECKY is rockin' her food blog this week with BROWNIE WEEK. Go there and sign up to win a cookbook - I can't win 'cause I'm her sister but I want someone that I know and love to win.

P.S. I will not be held accountable if you gain weight or break out just from looking at her DIVINE bites of chocolate lovin' - that's my disclaimer :)

Good Morning Fall!

2008-09-22T15:57:00.004-07:00

TODAY is the first day of Autumn - I'm ready for pumpkin bread, soup, sweaters, some leaves and yes, cozy socks.

My boys found some "cozy" socks in my drawer. Yes these are mine...but for the record, they were gifts that were given to me. 'nuff said about that. After some "skating" in the kitchen, the boys begged me to wear these to bed. Nevermind that it is still stinkin' hot around here.

My 1st Climber

2008-09-17T15:37:00.005-07:00

Ethan and Drew were never ones for climbing. They found little use for chairs and tables until they were old enough to sit and eat. Now older, of course they climb everywhere. Just the other day I caught Ethan trying to walk down the banister of the stairs. I had to explain that someone created stairs for walking down and so trying to balance on a 3 inch piece of wood isn't necessary anymore.

Ty is a completely different story. Perhaps he has learned from watching his brothers. I am constantly pulling him off of chairs, tables, stairs, couches and most recently BUNK BEDS. I guess the little fear of heights I was worried about does not exist. No sooner has Ty been dragged back down then he is right back up. And so I find this picture a little disturbing

...and now the ladder has been tucked away.

Silly me...who needs and jungle gym when you've got bunk beds.

P.S. See the cute stripe that my friend Annette and I painted on the wall? It goes all the way around and it was super easy - with Annette's help anyway.

CALL 911!

2008-09-17T15:37:00.004-07:00

Dinner was cleaned up, the kids were bathed and playing and I was getting ready to do a little bit of scrapbooking when Drew yells "Mom!!! Mom!!! Fire! Fire!" As with any emergency alert, I rush into action. Hmmm...doesn't smell like fire...I knew at that point that there wasn't a fire but Drew keeps saying, "Mom, there's fire! There's fire!" With an eyeroll I go over to where Drew is sitting and say, "Where is the fire?"
"Right here!" he says pointing.

"Oh," I laugh. "A spider."

"That's what I said. A fire."

Either I need my ears checked or we really need to work on Drew's pronunciation. Disaster averted...again.

Back to School

2008-09-17T15:37:00.003-07:00

Ethan and Drew both headed back to preschool a few weeks ago. Ethan goes Monday, Wednesday and Friday and Drew goes Tuesday and Thursday. Am I crazy? Who wants to drive to preschool five days a week? I guess the answer is me. On the brighter side, they are both LOVING it! Just put a "taxi" sign on top of my car - I'm going to need it for the next 18 years or so.

What's a spurt?

2008-09-17T15:37:00.002-07:00

I go in “spurts” – do you? Do you know what I mean? For the past couple’ov’weeks my house has been clean, the laundry has been done, there’s been something representative of dinner on the plates of my fam. Errands? Check. Grocery store? Check. Relief Society calls made? Check. Exercise? Check. Hair straightened? Check. Check. Check.

But today…(after having cleaned the 3rd bath of the morn) I sat down and absolutely could not {would not} get up. And so, the house has fallen apart around me. But here I sit, BLOGGING the afternoon away.

Today is not a “spurt” but hopefully, for the sake of the health department and CPS, I will wake up to a spurt in the morn. Today I am just plain ol’ tired and my couch was so happy to see me.

The Procrastination Continues

2008-09-16T16:19:00.009-07:00

So once again, I've totally fallen off the blogging-wagon. I don't mean to. I can't believe how fast time goes. I've been a little busy with this

and this

and some of this too.

I've been watching a lot more of this

what with the hurricanes and election and everything.

Most of all I've been happily working with these...

Life is good. Just extra FUN and extra busy. Muah!

What do the Daniels do in August?

2008-08-28T10:10:00.011-07:00

Oh we've been busy...chop your head off, run around like a chicken, BUSY! So here's the round-up:

IOWA - We visited Eric's darling Iowa family who treated us like royalty and spoiled us rotten. We went to the Iowa State Fair, Eric came in 2nd place in the Adel Sweet Corn Festival Corn-Shucking Competition [he lost to his sis-in-law Brandy who shucked 18 ears of corn in 1 minute!!! Take that "America's Got Talent"] we went to the parade, rode 4-wheelers and golf carts, took our annual trip to the toy store, we bbq'd and swam and enjoyed great company. A terrific trip that we've been taking every year for the last five years or so. We look so forward to re-connecting with family and we sure appreciate all that they do to make us feel right at home.

This is the playhouse...that I want to move into.
Ethan got his golf cart driver's license - I'm still not sure about riding with him.

All-you-can-eat sweet corn - is anything better?

Grandma Mimi won 1st place at the Iowa State Fair for her Gypsy Wagon in miniature. Great surprise!!! We were so proud!

Learning the ropes at the Iowa State Fair - we call this "training" for their future summer jobs.

WE CELEBRATED A BIRTHDAY

a little boy turned 5 ... and we celebrated like crazy. Ethan - we love you. We think you are so funny and sweet and you have such a sensitive heart that makes me want to squeeze you. You are a great brother and such a happy kid. You are smart and you figure things out so quickly. You have an amazing memory and you are the high-energy, spirited kid that I like to think your Dad was when he was your age. You'll do great things and I can't wait to be there to cheer you on! Happy 5th Birthday Ethan!

Ethan got a "big kid" bike.

The traditional breakfast in bed. Ethan ordered eggs, bacon, sausage and steak. (we skipped the steak)

We spent the morning at Bounce U for a little bouncy fun!

No one was really sure about the firecracker candle...especially when the smoke alarms started going off! Ethan and Uncle Scott have close birthdays so we celebrated together!

WE TOOK A TRIP TO CALI!

We took off for a weekend and went to California. We hung out with some of our favorite people...Tony and Michelle (+kids), John & Kelley (+kid and they even had another baby while we were there - welcome to the world little Georgia!!), the always amazing Kraus family and we even got to spend a few minutes with some of my family that were there for my cousin Chris' mission farewell (HE'S GOING TO ROME!!!) We spent a day at the beach and took a day to go to Legoland. Our trips to Cali always seem to be rushed and so fast but we sure pack the fun in!

Rock band is a fun, albeit slightly embarassing game.

Who doesn't want to be friends with this guy?

This is the one ride that Ty got to go on...the rest of the time he pretty much hung out in the stroller. But he was such a good sport about it!

Good Thursday Morning!

2008-08-28T09:55:00.002-07:00

Nothing says {good-morning-thursday-i'm-happy-that-you're-here} more than a BUBBLE BATH. It was meant for Ty [who found breakfast a little too exciting], but a bath full of bubbles is just too sparkly - and so there was a party - in my tub. I think I need a bigger bathtub.

A Letter to a Long Lost Friend

2008-08-28T09:39:00.002-07:00

Dear Waistline,

Hi! Do you remember me? I vaguely remember you from about 5 years ago when we last parted during pregnancy #1. I remember how I could wear a belt around you and button the top button of my pants. Oh, those were good times, weren't they? I've missed you. I know I've put you through a lot lately - three babies in four years is hardly easy to ignore - but I know you can do it and I've been working very hard to find you. I search for you every morning at 5:30 and then I think about you many times during the day. Even though I try to ignore it, I have guilt that I let you go. Can't you please come back, even if it's just for a short time? I might find out that I like Oreo Cakesters more than I like you and if that's the case, so be it. We'll part ways once again and I'll feel better knowing that it was me and not you. So, if it's not too much trouble, I'd love to see you again and I'd love it even more if you stuck around for a while. I'll be waiting, but please don't expect me to be patient forever.

Your long, lost friend,
Me

Ty turned 1

2008-08-12T15:55:00.003-07:00

Can't believe this little baby is already 1!!! Time has gone by so quickly this past year. He is such a happy baby - lots of fun and he always has a grin that looks like he is getting away with something. He is learning to hold his own with his brothers and we love his amazing dance moves - seriously he is talented!!! You've gotta see this kid's eyelashes - so long and his eyes are BRIGHT BLUE! His smile lights up and entire room. He will eat anything and everything that you put in front of him and he loves cupboards - opening and closing and fishing out whatever he can. He is a magnet to the stairs and knows that he isn't supposed to be going up and down yet - just a little mischief in him. Ty fits in perfectly with our family! I can't wait to see his future :) Love you Ty-ger!

I have a sister...

2008-08-03T15:55:00.003-07:00

... named BECKY who just started her food blog. She already has some great recipes which I will be copying when I decide to give up this horrid "eating healthy" thing that I wish I never even started. Check it....

http://www.satisfyingmysweettooth.blogspot.com/

John Mayer Got a Haircut!

2008-08-03T15:38:00.002-07:00

Eric took me on a date. It was a Wednesday but I guess that because it is summer, Wednesday night dates are okay. Besides, it was awesome and he might have a hard time topping this one...we went to the John Mayer Concert! Eric scored some great 6th row tickets. I knew that I liked John Mayer but he sounds even better LIVE! He's pretty funny too and he is dating Jennifer Aniston which makes him even more appealing. Don't you think??? Now even though John was wearing CAPRI SWEATS (yes it was odd) and really funny high top sneakers and he had a lot of tattoos which I guess I've never really noticed, he is VERY HANDSOME and his new haircut was all the buzz (no pun intended) when he walked onstage. I would imagine that longerish, straggly hair would get extra sweaty and hot in 100 degree weather while rocking out onstage. Good call on the new 'do John. When you get back here to Phoenix (when it is a little cooler please), call me and I'll come to your show again. Can I bring Eric? He made your concert extra fun! Thanks Eric D.

Utah Rocks!

2008-08-03T15:05:00.005-07:00

The boys and I drove up to Utah a couple of weeks ago to get out of the heat, to see family and to get out of the heat. Eric had a business trip to San Diego so I figured what the heck -take a little drive north. We had LOTS of fun in Hurricane with Val & family. We went to the new Washington Rec Center and swam at their great new pool, we shopped at Tai Pan and John was nice enough to watch the kids while Val and I went and saw The Sound of Music at Tuacahn. We knew all the words to all the songs and we knew that if Liesl and Gretyl broke a leg onstage and they needed some quick replacements, we could do it thanks to all of our childhood experience at Los Ayres Ballet Studio. Alas, it was not to be but we had oodles of fun anyway! So after a few days in Hurricane we headed north yet again and traveled to Grandpa Brian's in Panguitch (population 2000). Now I don't know if you have ever been to Panguitch, but they do things a little differenly around there. Nonetheless, it is a place where kids can run free and be one with nature and all that good stuff. There really is something special about small towns. For instance, we went to the grocery store while we were there. It's called Joe's Market and when we walked in you'll never guess who we met....Joe, the owner of Joe's Market. I don't know about you but I've never met Frye or Safeway or Albertson before. It was nice to know that the guy that owned the market really was at the market. (Joe did say that he probably should have named it Zion because he owes them for the next 40 years...too bad!) Grandpa Brian and his family own a restaurant in Panguitch called Foy's Country Corner Cafe and as a patron of that establishment, I can tell you that the house omelet is the tastiest omelet I have ever had. I was amazed at how many people walked into that restaurant and peaked their head into the kitchen to say hello to Brian's 90-year-old mother Mary (who is still the head cook - although it seems like they might be breaking some labor laws or something). There is just something special about a little place where "everybody knows your name. And their always glad you came." (SING IT!) So thanks Grandpa Brian for letting us invade your house and your restaurant and your town. We had such a great time and we hope you let us come back again soon!

Our little fishing trip was a HUGE success!

Ethan caught a fish!!!

All of the walking cousins!

The highlight of the parade - Darth Vader and Boba Fett. I'm so glad they didn't disappoint!
My nephew Tallen. I love this kid!

Sarah, Ali and Ethan - just hanging out.

My cousin Cole who came down to work in the cafe.

We mow lawns! Only $10 a lawn!

We drive cars!

This is my niece Ali - running through the sprinklers!

The two week birthday...

2008-08-03T14:57:00.002-07:00

Because we were out of town on Drew's actual 3rd birthday and because when we got home we had his "Dinosaur Party" and then a party with Eric's family, his birthday was celebrated many times. So many, in fact, that by #3 - he knew exactly how to put his own candles in. After the third round of presents he happy yelled "THIS IS THE BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!" At least he knew how lucky he is!

4th of JULY

2008-08-03T14:49:00.002-07:00

Another favorite holiday...it always means good food, fireworks, flags, swimming and great friends! What's not to love???

New Phoenix Children's Museum

2008-08-03T14:41:00.005-07:00

I love it when we discover a new activity (INDOORS) to do with the kids in the summer. A few weeks ago, my friend Becca and our kids all headed out to Phoenix to check out the new Phoenix Children's Museum. It was so much fun and our kids just loved it. They still have a few things to finish and there are more exhibits to come but we were greatly impressed. We'll be back!

My Birthday!!!

2008-08-03T14:36:00.004-07:00

A long, long time ago I had a birthday. It was a fun day. For reasons beyond my control (we thought we lost our camera) I never blogged about it. But my camera has been brought back from the dead (hidden under the wires behind the desk) and I now have documentation that I did in fact have a birthday, that I did go out with the Wallins to Benihana and that it was a super fun night.

Still Alive...barely

2008-07-06T21:25:00.011-07:00

I might be exaggerating but its really, really hot here. I should be used to this but it surprises me every summer. I always forget what 91 degrees at 5:30am feels like. We've had a great few weeks...a family reunion in San Diego, a 3-year-old birthday (DREW!) a trip to the lake with the Wallins, a super fun 4th of July and lots of other stuff in-between. (more in the next post) So here are pictures (in totally random order) and the quick update... (WARNING: Ridiculously long blogpost ahead. Only if you really love us will you want to keep reading!)

Drew is a happy kid celebrating his actual birthday with cousins who love him so much they bought him new SUPER JAMMIES - with a cape and everything!

This is my kid who LOVES treats. Any and all treats. He is in heaven.

We had a GREAT dinner with some friends from Eric's work - we just love Nancy and Jeff and their families are so kind. Thanks for a fantastic evening!

We found lots of places for sand to hide.

Ty touched the ocean for the first time...he loved it!

Drew found shells with Great-Grandpa Joe! I just found out a couple of years ago that Grandpa "seeded" the beach. I always thought he was just a really good shell-finder.

My family (minus Joel!) at the big 60th Anniversary Bash at our hotel in La Jolla. Looks like we're in Hawaii...

The walking cousins at Sea World - babies Lauren, Ty and Keslie were in their strollers. FUN!

Celebrating Grandma's 80th Birthday! Her crown says "The Queen"

Almost all the cousins and their kids. We were missing a few but look at the crowd!

Drew learned to Boogie Board...and loved every minute!

Making breakfast for Daddy on Father's Day - Drew tells me he is a good "cooker"
Daddy's old mission buddy P.F. Sundahl dropped in for a visit! We hope you can stay longer next time!

This is Grant...we love Grant. Grant is the lucky son of John and Kelley who we also love oodles.

My boys think they are soooooooooooooo very funny when I ask them to smile for a photo-op.

Ethan and his buddy Crew who were lucky enough to play in the dirt pile - Eric (almost) finished the landscaping!

Daddy got goggles for Father's Day - and a shot with the handsome young men who make him a daddy!

We got a new box of band-aids. And now we need another. Those are Drew's legs.

Boating with the Wallins at Canyon Lake - we LOVE the Wallins! Always up for a good time and thankfully inviting us to come along!

Eric surfs the wake - isn't he HOT!

We played in the mud. Is anyone noticing a theme here? I give LOTS of baths!

We set up the tent in the house - because it's too dang hot outside.

"B" DAY

2008-05-29T21:52:00.003-07:00

Today the boys and I celebrated "B" Day. Which is somewhat ironic considering that today is my sister Val's B-day. So first, HAPPY BIRTHDAY VAL!!! Love you! Hope it was good.

On to our "B" Day...

We first made a list of all the things that start with the letter B. It was going great until Drew said "Belly Button" which set off some sort of strange belly button dance by Ethan and uncontrollable laughter by Drew. Gotta love how an educational exercise turns into slapstick comedy.

We played baseball.

We made lots of bubbles.

We ate brownies.

"B" day success.

P.S. When asked by a friend if we were going to do a different letter every day...the answer is no. This was a complete coincidence. Ethan begged to play baseball. Drew is obsessed with bubbles. I wanted brownies. "B" day was born.

Happy Memorial Day!

2008-05-26T10:27:00.004-07:00

Morning Walk

Yard Work

Clean House

Bake Cupcakes

Shop for FUN

BBQ with Friends

Swim like Fish

THE PERFECT DAY

SUMMER: WEEK 1

2008-05-25T09:59:00.003-07:00

I love SUMMERTIME! No, not the 110 degree weather but everything else that comes with it. Preschool is out and it feels like we can do anything. (Silly, I know but we lead a small life around here!) On Thursday the boys and I sat down and wrote a long list of everything FUN that we want to do this summer. The list is long and summer just isn't so we've already gotten started. This week we made our own playdo (complete with scents), went to that bouncy place, the library, hit up germland at the mall and managed to squeeze in a bikeride. I LOVE SUMMER!

My favorite things about SUMMER:

1. BBQ's are totally acceptable...for every meal. My fav things to BBQ are hamburgers, hot dogs (surprise, surprise), foil dinners, corn on the cob and of course...a good ol' steak for Eric D. I'm going to really try some new stuff this summer. (like actually learn how to turn on the BBQ myself)

2. Swimming at 8:00am and then again at 8:00pm. Because we can.

3. The freedom - nothing to run to. No pressure. Each day is a whole new day for projects and/or FUN!

4. The accessibility of babysitters. So much easier to plan a morning of "me" time. More realistically, I can go to the dentist and the grocery store without my entourage.

5. Jammies become loungewear for the better part of the day.

6. Road Trips!!!

7. Watermelon, lemonade, popsicles and snowcones.

8. Tan lines = a good day

9. Memorial Day, 4th of July, kids bdays and other excuses to make a yummy treat!

10. Dbacks games. Totally fun for the kids and an easy night out for me and Eric. FUN!

What do you LOVE about Summer? What's your on your list?

Because RANDOMNESS Defines Me Lately

2008-05-15T22:18:00.004-07:00

Here's the update:

1. My sis Becky had her baby girl Keslie (isn't that the cutest name!) last week. Yay for no more kankles. :) Yay for three kids = partly insane. Can't wait to meet her!

2. Ethan hair is growing vvvveeeerrrryyyy slowly. I seriously don't know why this is such a big deal to me. But I really miss putting "glue" in his hair and making it spiky. He does not miss it.

3. I had a very nice mother's day. I got my first homemade gift - a recipe card and magnet holder from Ethan. It was adorable and cute and now I get why people can't just throw these things away.

4. Drew is over his super high fever and we are all sleeping through the night again...for now.

5. We got to talk to Joel over the weekend! It was DELIGHTFUL! He still has his sense of humor and is a GREAT missionary. On a sadder note, my bro got his camera stolen ... from the mission office ... with a full memory card. Bummer!

6. Today was Ethan's water party at school - can you believe school is almost out here - next week is the last week! He has a really great class with some funny little kids. Today when we picked up his carpool buddy, they were comparing belly buttons (who's was more round, who's was really in the middle). It was hilarious!

7. Tomorrow is my Dad's birthday. I can't believe he has been gone nearly five years. I sure miss him and have been thinking about him so much lately. He really was an amazing man.

8. I'm just about done with these invites to a Relief Society meeting. Why am I making invites to a meeting? Because it gives me a creative outlet. (that was a recent "discussion" between me and Eric D.)

9. The SPRINKLES CUPCAKES opened last week in Scottsdale. And the KRISPY KREME re-opened in Mesa. Nothing like having high-fat/high-calorie - deliciousness so convenient. How lucky am I? How lucky are my drawstring pants?

10. Ty is hilarious. These pictures say it ALL.

11. It rained this week. Sort of random but everything looked so pretty, smelled so good and it sounded so soothing out by the pool.

Let me explain...

2008-05-09T14:15:00.005-07:00

This was self-inflicted. Not a haircut gone bad (like the lady at the grocery store thought today - thank you very much.)

Long Story SHORT...

cutting Drew's hair.

ethan is next.

eric says he needs help with his car.

go inside house.

lock back door.

help eric for 5 minutes.

come inside.

ethan says, "don't worry about me mom. I already cut my hair."

mom has mini-meltdown.

ethan now looks a lot like ty.

mom realizes now that she overreacted.

it is JUST hair.

I really think that he thought he was helping. When he saw his hair in the mirror, he had his own meltdown. Said he looked "crazy" (hence the tear-stained face). Now he likes it and won't stop touching his head. I guess crazy is what we're going for around here.

"Someday we'll look back at this and laugh."

They might have to put that on my gravestone.

Other Happenings...

The older boys went to Father & Sons - they had a blast and came back very DIRTY and with two new additions to the family. A wolf spider (thank you Ethan) and a potato bug (much better Drew).

Who had fun camping with Dad????

MEEEEEEEE!!!!

Eric asked me if I was glad that he took the boys so that I could have a break - they were gone for 12 hours and that's about how long it took me to get them ready to go. I call that a wash.

Ethan is a STAR!

2008-05-02T12:07:00.002-07:00

That might be a slightly exaggerated title...if I wasn't his mom! You see, he is a star to me. Last night was his Let's Play Music recital! If you haven't heard of this program and you're interested in having your kids play an instrument later in life, this is a great (and fun) stepping stone. Anyway, last night was his little performance and he was great. He is a pretty HAPPY kid and loves the stage (can you say Eric D. jr.?)! I'm amazed at his abilities, his growing independence and his sense of self. You ROCK Ethan!!!

[Life] - Lessons

2008-04-29T00:13:00.002-07:00

…but the biggest mistake I made is the one that most of us make while doing this. I did not live in the moment enough. This is particularly clear now that the moment is gone, captured only in photographs. There is one picture of the three on them sitting in the grass on a quilt in the shadow of the swing set on a summer day, ages 6, 4, and 1. And I wish I could remember what we ate, and what we talked about, and how they sounded, and how they looked when they slept that night. I wish I had not been in a hurry to get on to the next things: dinner, bath, book, bed. I wish I had treasured the doing a little more and the getting it done a little less.

{Anna Quindlen}

Obsessions...

2008-04-23T06:53:00.004-07:00

This is Darth Vader holding a red lightsaber.

The obsession lives on. Love you Ethan!

The Gate Keeper

2008-04-21T10:31:00.005-07:00

Ty is officially mobile now. He scoots and crawls and wiggles his way around the house. He just started pulling himself up and is always looking for something to wrap his fingers around. Really, anything will do. Just make it a challenge and he's in. Funny how their little personalities emerge long before they can talk and walk, isn't it? So we had to put a gate on the toy room door. It's not so much to keep Ty out as it is to keep Ethan and Drew and their thousands of Legos (a small obsession at our house) in. I just wanted there to be a clearly defined line for where Legos should be and shouldn't be. Have I made myself clear? (not always to a four year old) So lately the gate is Ty's favorite place to be. He crawls over, pulls up and just stands there, drooling all over the place and fantasizing what it will be like to put those little pieces of plastic heaven in his mouth. Gotta love this baby!

GREAT Weekend!

2008-04-21T10:19:00.005-07:00

So I have to brag about this....my Mom came to visit and we had so much fun! Of course if you know my Mom you know that she can't just come for a FUN ONLY visit. We had to get something done too. So we worked in the yard and got the whole front of my house all fixed up! How lucky am I that my Mom wants to come visit and help me scratch some of the to do's off my list! My Mom is multi-talented and is always my first phone call whenever I have a question about gardening, sewing, music, church callings, child-raising and anything that I need a logical answer to. She is really just the best and the older I get, the more I am in total and complete awe of her! But it wasn't all work this weekend...thanks to Eric and some well-behaved boys we were able to squeeze in a few fun things too... like a movie, shopping, lots of walking, lunch and of course, swimming! Thanks for all your help Mom and for all the fun! Come back again soon!!!