HEAPS AND HEAPS OF FUN

Ditchers

2011-11-29T16:15:00.001-07:00

Yeah we ditch out on Thanksgiving this year and we went to Legoland. It was actually really fun and I am only a little sad I didn't have a traditional holiday.The boys had a blast and it wasn't crowded at all we had almost no lines throughout the day which was a relief with Evan and his 2 year old patience.

Evan said he was having fun on all the rides but his face looked like this most of the day.

We are pretty sure Porter is a heterosexual because he felt up this poor lego lady and then posed for a picture with her.

Now the decision for next year is should we stay or should we go somewhere else....maybe Hawaii?

Sneak Peak

2011-10-25T08:58:00.005-07:00

(We almost went as Mexicans because we couldn't pry the sombreros out of the kids hands)

Halloween is here! This is my favorite holiday, and really what's not to love, there is dressing up, food, FREE candy!

The fun all starts with Grandma's fabulous Halloween party. Her and her friends go all out and the kids (and adults) have a blast!

The best part of the night was watching Evan bob for apples.
And now we just have to wait for 2 more parties and a night of trick or treating, (when did Halloween turn into a multiple day celebration-I am not complaining though).

We ate their brains!

2011-10-11T16:43:00.003-07:00

Over the weekend we got our of town and went to the cabin. I invited my brother and his family (so glad they moved closer to us) to come and we had a great time! My sister-in-law is super creative at making boring things like, dinner really fun. She had the kids cut out "pumpkins" (orange peppers) into jackolanterns and then we ate the "brains" (spaghetti) out of them. The kids also make their own cookie cutter garlic bread. It was super easy and took almost no extra time and the kids loved it!

Then we went up to the ski resort, it was get a Jr. ski pass for free day (not sure if we are going use them, but wishful thinking is always nice).
It was so cold and windy, I was expecting fall weather not winter conditions! So needless to say we weren't totally dressed right, but we survived.

It was really fun to be cold and play outside with the kids, I was a little bummed to come back to 90 degree weather.

Birthday, Swimming, & School...

2011-08-17T11:52:00.006-07:00

The summer is over (can someone please tell the weather) and I am happy to report that we made it, it even went by a little too fast. We tried to go swimming as much as possible and since we have no pool we relied on some good friends and family to help keep us cool.

I love how they are all smiling. They must just be underwater with big smiles the whole time. With all the happiness it really make me want a pool.

Summer for us also mean birthday time, we have 4 birthdays in just our immediate family, and Evan and I practically share ours being only 2 days apart. He was so cute this year, he hated opening presents (weird) but loved the cake (normal).

Then to end it all school starts, it didn't feel like it was "time" but now that we are back to routine I love it. Collin told me this after his first day of school "I think it is going to be a great year with a great teacher". I sure hope so.

A Riddle?

2011-06-28T19:39:00.004-07:00

What do you get when you have a few of 7/8 years at your house, some cake, presents, a trip to Krispy Kreme's, lunch with grandma... and many more fun things?

A SUPER AWESOME BIRTHDAY!

And a mom who is tired and feeling a bit to young/old to have an eight year old.

Where are all the sisters?

2011-06-23T07:56:00.003-07:00

I had the pleasure of watching a friends children yesterday (actually it was a treat for me because all of the kids got along and played well it was easy for me). We had a little girl over and she asked me "where are all the sisters?" "Well we don't have any sisters here, only brothers" I answered. "You mean no princesses, and no doll houses?" Yeah that right, no princesses. But she made the best of it and dressed up like a "cowgirl" while the boys were pirates and batman.

Then they went to played outside in the splashzone and the poor thing, I had to put her in a rash guard and swim trunks. Good thing she is only 3 and not totally embarrassed by all our boy ways!

Maybe I should invest in some girls toys for the few times we do have girls here. Then they can play with doll houses instead of pirate ships.

Blood, Sweat, and Tears

2011-05-29T08:42:00.005-07:00

Okay so maybe not blood, but there was definitely sweat and maybe a few tears shed out of frustration. But they are done and I did it mostly by myself. Awhile ago (way back last fall) I got a crazy idea in my head that maybe I could build some furniture. Yeah what was I thinking. I blame it all on this blog. She makes everything seem easy and effortless and beautiful all at the same time. At least I decided to start small and simple and if it went well I would go on to the bigger thing I have in mind.

I decided to build some toy shelves to help with our incredibly disorganized play room. I don't have a great before and after but many times it looked like this...

But now with a new coat of paint all the walls, my toy shelves, along with some cute buckets and bins it now looks like this...

I am so excited with how it turned out. Of course I am looking at it with a critical eye and I see so many mistakes and I would change many things if I could...or felt like it. I have some plans to turn that crazy corded area into a reading corner. And I have some fun ideas for artwork and other things to go on the wall. Hopefully I can still get things done through the summer. I am mostly glad I finished the hard stuff before 100 degree weather comes.

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Even though it was super hard and time consuming, I have my next project planned(crazy I know)...but it will have to wait for cooler weather and kids to be back in school!

Date Night

2011-04-10T15:39:00.003-07:00

Yeah that's right I got to go on a date this weekend. But not with my husband like you all are thinking but with another man in my life. I actually have 3 other men in my life...aren't I lucky.

This week this little dude accomplished some things he has been working really hard on at school and I decided that it deserved a reward. So we went on the standard dinner and a movie date, boys choice.

We saw Diary of a Wimpy kid:Rodrick Rules, which was actually a pretty funny movie that had me giggling pretty hard and some parts. (glad he picked it over Hop)

Then of to In and Out to eat. Even though we were stuffed full of popcorn and candy and feeling kinda sick we still managed to stuff a cheeseburger and fries down.

We was an awesome date and he even held my hand. I think I was in Mom heaven for awhile because he loved me the whole night and didn't have to compete with any brothers. I might have to start a tradition.

Just for a laugh

2011-03-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

Hope you enjoy!

Highlights

2011-03-20T07:46:00.007-07:00

We went to Disneyland this week for Spring Break. We had tons of fun and here are a few "highlights" from the trip.

We went with Grandma and Grandpa and the cousins (minus Evan we decided to leave him home, a sad decision but kinda worth it)

Waiting in line for Toy Story Mania, even though we got there when the ride opened we still waited an hour because the ride was broken...but it was worth the wait because it was a fun ride!

Making the kids go on fast scary rides was definitely worth it. They loved it, in Porter's words... "see I was not scared I had a smiley face the whole time" (And yes I am kinda cheap and just took a picture of the screen instead of buying the picture)

Other fun things not pictured where me running into a wheel chair TWICE can you say watch where you are going please. Seeing World of Color in CA Adventure. Loosing Porter in Tarzan's tree house, but he was not really lost he said just playing some more. And us breaking our backs because the kids wanted to be carried constantly!

But some of the best entertainment was seeing so many people and their choice of clothing.

How would you like to have a round house kick to the face with someone wearing these babies.

A little scifi

2011-03-12T22:04:00.005-07:00

I read this book this week, and I couldn't put it down.

Then the star aligned and my amazing Mother-in-law called to see if she could take the kids for an evening, (heck ya) so we went and saw the movie. It of course wasn't as good as the book, (they never are) but it did not disappoint.

2011-03-08T09:06:00.000-07:00

Sometimes this is how it needs to be....

2011-01-30T19:37:00.004-07:00

Ever wonder what is going through your child's head? I now know...

This is what my oldest brought to me after church today. He explained if they loose their double light sabers they are going to be okay because they also have their black belt in karate. (He also pointed out that they have blue light sabers which mean you are a good guy).
I just smile and nod.

What a Life

2011-01-24T12:18:00.006-07:00

They don't know how good they have it!

This is my middle child wrapped up in MY bed all warm and cozy this morning...I was doing laundry and exercising, it was really hard not to get back in bed and snuggle.

And this kid, he gets to sleep in any time he wants. This is 9:00am last week and I had to get him up because of a Dr. appointment. Must be nice to have this luxury of sleep anytime and anywhere you want.

Brotherly Love

2010-12-13T14:36:00.010-07:00

Porter was doing his big brother duty and was making sure Evan got in on the goodness of this treat.

And Collin was helping Porter with the tree, they even figured out how to get the balls up in the high spots...good thing I don't have any breakable things on the tree this year. (I am actually a little bummed that I didn't get a picture of them chucking the balls into the air- but don't tell them that).

I really considered leaving it like this, I think they did a pretty good job.

Take a trip down memory lane.

2010-11-17T19:44:00.003-07:00

Remember those days as a kid and the most important thing you had to do was PLAY. I would play for hours outside riding bikes, playing with friends, jumping on our tramp, swinging getting all sweaty and out of breathe. And sometimes I would hear twinkling kind of music. At first it was distant and then it grew louder and louder and then you new it was the ICE CREAM MAN!

This happened to my kids today and they were in Heaven. Thank goodness for my secret stash of $1's so I could help make their afternoon perfect.

It was a hard decision, too many to choose from....

I think they were happy with their choice, and a free lollipop too.

My Kids...

2010-11-04T14:12:00.001-07:00

make me smile.

Have a great day!

Let the Festivities Begin....

2010-10-26T07:28:00.006-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN EVERYONE!

Well 1 down with 2 more to go... it all starts with the fabulous party Grandma and her friends throw every year. They go all out with the decor and games plus the food is great. They really know how to throw a great party. My costume had a little wardrobe malfunction, good thing I have 2 more parties to go to this year (so you will just have to wait-that is if I get around to posting anymore Halloween stuff)

Can you tell how much the baby likes Kris's costume? It makes me want to get a babysitter this week, because he probably won't like mine either.

A little cheating never hurt anybody, especially when doughnuts are involved.

Have a great week everyone!

Music Lovers

2010-10-21T09:32:00.003-07:00

Anybody out there love music? I sure do, I just wish I could play or sing and make it sound good. Oh well maybe there is not much hope for me, but I have 3 boys who are gonna learn! So I signed them up (well the older one for now) with Let's Play Music. It is an awesome music class that last three years and when they are done they are more than ready for traditional piano, but it is not just a piano starter class, they learn to play, compose and internalize music and the bonus is they don't even realize they are learning because its fun!

2010-10-06T14:03:00.003-07:00

This what playing in the rain looks like in AZ...shorts, rain boots, and a jacket in 80 degree weather. It has been really fun and interesting these past few days. I think fall has finally arrived. Hallelujah!

In Paradise

2010-09-30T18:27:00.004-07:00

I have let the playroom get away from me. It looks like my youngest is taking full advantage.

2010-09-11T16:06:00.004-07:00

I think I need to stop blinking because my kids are growing up to fast.

Porter is already old enough to go to preschool. His first day/week went really well. I am not sure he totally loves going because he doesn't like to "talk about it" (his words) and he asked me if I can go with him next time.
He is so cute and I love this kid so much, he just really makes me smile.

Summer Fun!

2010-08-18T16:16:00.011-07:00

It appears I have missed a few weeks of blogging...oops. I had big plans to tell about our fun summer as it was happening, play by play in every detail. (yeah right). But here is a quick recap.

Swimming lessons...lots and lots of swimming lessons which for me equals a big sweaty mess for the whole month of June.

Then off to California, but unfortunately the pictures are on the other computer. Sorry to disappoint I know how sad you must feel, but it will all be ok.

A dental appointment, Yea! No cavities.

A little bit of camping and shooting some innocent creatures. Yeah, I won't go into detail but picture me rolling my eyes and trying not to be grossed out. It was actually kind of sad Porter kept telling me he wanted it to move.

We also took a quick weekend trip to Colorado to see my brother and his family and he was kind enough to take us on his boat for some super fun.

There was also a whole lot of video games, LEGOS, playing with friends and brothers and fighting all the normal stuff we do.
Well that was our summer in a nutshell, hope you enjoyed, I know we did...well most of it anyway.

getting old

2010-06-28T16:01:00.005-07:00

Just when I start to think I am still young and cool (yeah right) something slams me right back into reality. Yesterday it was a 19 year old calling me Sister Heap-oh the horror. And today it is Collin turning 7.

(Yeah, we had brownies, we do it up real fancy here).

What the ______ how can I be so old and how can time go by so fast. My little guy is growing up so fast, I still think of him like this.

A sweet little 3 year that could do no wrong (at least that how I remember it) and here he is so big. I never thought I would actually miss my "little kid" but I do.

This is what happens....

2010-06-01T16:13:00.003-07:00

When my Husband goes to Costco unsupervised.

He really is such a big kid at heart and thank goodness we have him or the boys (and Me) would have no fun with boring mom. At least its a fun new toy for the start of a fun summer

Did you know....

2010-05-06T15:58:00.005-07:00

That I have 3 children?
Well I do, I am not sure why I haven't blogged about Evan much, maybe its because I wanted to keep all his cuteness to myself, I don't think it has anything to do with that fact that I have only been averaging 2 post a month.

He is super grabby and tries to get his hand on everything!
He has the best blues eyes ever, and can you believe I have a blondie.

He is not crawling yet and I thank him every day for that, because once he is mobile it's all over. It is pretty funny to see him try though, he ends up going backwards every time.
And no teeth either, which is pretty sad for him because he loves to eat and he has the chewing reflex down! (not really sure if it's a reflex but go with me)

He is such a great baby and I just love to squeeze him!

6:17am

2010-04-17T12:08:00.003-07:00

This is the best and worst time of day for me.

Resourceful

2010-04-08T11:15:00.003-07:00

I don't think Porter is lacking in critical thinking skills, because I find him in situations like this daily.

Yes, mom prevails the candy is still to high for him to reach!

Tales... from Potty Training

2010-03-05T11:08:00.005-07:00

Let me set up the scene for you....
Porter and I were in the bathroom after he took care of some business and I feel his little finger wiping my leg.
Me: Porter did you just wipe poop on me?
Porter: No.... it was just my booger's.
Oh well if it was only your booger's....I suppose that is one part of being a mother.

I do have to say I am very pleased with how this little booger is doing, I thought we was never going to use the toilet.

2010-03-02T12:17:00.004-07:00

This guy makes me smile....

When he is not whining over doing homework and chores.
(photo taken last March, how time flies)

Getting organized

2010-02-16T14:28:00.004-07:00

Oh my it feels so good to get a closet cleaned out, and in this case it was the pantry. I saw this can organizing thing awhile ago and my OCD kicked in and I had to have one, but then my cheapness overpowered my organizing obsession so I never got it.
But now, I am happy to tell you that still after a year of wanting one I broke down and bought two.
So here is the
BEFORE

and
AFTER

Also, here is Porter playing in the box that they came in, he really wanted to sleep in it all night.

facebookers

2010-02-04T09:35:00.002-07:00

I saw this on someones blog and decided to copy to show all of you! Its pretty funny if you are acquainted with facebook and with people that post about how awesome their lives are.

It was bound to happen.

2010-01-28T10:58:00.003-07:00

I am just sad it happened to him so young. (Oh well the younger the better right?) With 2 very active boys (soon to be 3) accidents do happen, in this case they were at the park playing kinda rough, and well one got mad at the other and pushed, Porter fell and landed in just the wrong way. It isn't really fractured, the growth plate separated and the cast will keep his arm stable while it heals. I hope I got all that right, my kid was screaming through the whole appointment with the doctor and I only caught bits and pieces of what he said.

He has been a real trooper and now he has a nice accessory for 3 weeks.

Missing

2010-01-26T20:00:00.002-07:00

We have lost a few things around our house.

I hope they come back soon.

Puddles

2010-01-21T10:52:00.003-07:00

I told Porter I didn't want him to get in the puddles because his pants would get all wet.

Well he figured away around that.

Once upon a dream

2010-01-02T10:49:00.003-07:00

I stumbled upon this website and I thought I would share it with you. Its a good reminder that life is not a fairy tale. Click here to enjoy.

I especially like Snow White and Little Red Riding Hood.

A Little Confused

2009-12-21T16:08:00.008-07:00

Porter has loved this Holiday Season and all that goes with it. Teaching him about them has been pretty fun. For a while he liked to tell me "mom you know what comes after Halloween?! Thanksgiving, you know what comes after that...Christmas!!"

Halloween was a hit I think it was his favorite (really who doesn't love getting candy).

He also had fun at Thanksgiving, seeing and playing with family. Well and eating good food was also a bonus.
Aren't we a good looking bunch?

And now that Christmas is here I thought he understood about Jesus and Santa and all that comes with the Christmas and how each holiday is separate and different but he keeps asking me "Mom what do you want for Halloween?"

Maybe he should go to work for Jack.

FIANLLY

2009-12-17T10:41:00.003-07:00

Ever since the baby has been born I have heard "oh good thing you have a older child so he can help you" I just smiled and nodded thinking to myself "yeah right." But yesterday it finally happened. I asked Collin if he could feed the baby while I made dinner and he happily said Yes. I was thrilled. Actually Collin was a little saint yesterday. He offered to help me clean a dirt mess that Porter made, he did his regular chores without whining and played nicely with Porter all afternoon.
He did tell me he is trying to be really good so Santa's elves can watch him being nice. Well, whatever is making him this sweet I will take it!

Chrsitmas List

2009-12-09T15:19:00.004-07:00

This year has been nice because Collin has not had a case of the "I wants" It has made Christmas shopping a little more challenging but I would rather have me getting him things I want him to have rather than what commericals want him to have. But today I realized maybe I don't need to get him anything because he has been making his own toys.

First up the DS he seems pretty content pretending to play all the video games on a piece of paper.

And spending 5 bucks on a pack of Pokemon cards, not us, just some crayons and imagination and we are covered.

And lets not forget about these beauties we made last month.

So maybe just some paper,tape and crayons for Collin this year.
Do you think he would be upset??

Good Job Kris!

2009-11-24T15:03:00.004-07:00

Over the weekend Kris rode in the El Tour de Tucson. He did the 80 mile race and totally rocked it. He didn't get to train as much as he would have liked, you know with a new baby and a big ward calling and all. He got 16th out of 400 which its not to shabby if you ask me.

Seeing Kris race again made me remember how it was in the beginning of our marriage and one of the reasons why I fell i love. Ahhh memories.

p.s. This was the only picture I got, I was trying to get him racing but a little 2 year had other plans and I had to run after him. And a big thanks to my mom and dad I really wouldn't have been able to get it altogether if they didn't come with us.

Gettin' crafty

2009-11-18T13:39:00.007-07:00

So I have been loving the girly style that is out there lately. Anything with flowers, ruffles, beads I have been all over. (Which is surprising because I am such a t-shirt and flip flops sorta gal).

I love this from gap.

This cute little number is from jcrew.

And this shirt from a place that I love... anthropologie. (Don't even get me started I could spend way to much at that store).

Anyhow while I love the style I really have a hard time spending money. Yes I know I am cheap, and I actually love this about myself and consider it a quality -most of the time.
So I decided to get crafty and try to make something on my own. The shirt only cost $5.00 -I love Target- and the material for the flowers was only a BUCK. I was a little worried it would feel like I was wearing a corsage but it doesn't at all. I think all in all $6.oo for a shirt is a price I can live with.

For hire

2009-11-17T09:20:00.003-07:00

This is how I keep my house clean....

Just give Porter a toothbrush and some water and he will take care of things.

(Just don't tell Kris that it is his toothbrush).

Funny Things

2009-11-11T07:24:00.006-07:00

Lately I have and some funny thought rolling around in my head so I thought I would share with you.
So when writing how excited I am I usually write Yeah! but I am not sure if this is right. I have seen some write YAY!, YAE!, YA! and even Hooray! I am just not sure what is best way, do you?

I have also thought of some ways that would make my life easier but they involve some sort of super power. Such as having super stretching skin, like Elastigirl, I could totally be nursing the baby and help Porter by not gettting into the cupboard and pull everything out. Oh I could go on and on over the things I could do without having to get up.
Also the ability to read minds would also be nice, again this would be super helpful when raising kids, sometimes I just wish I knew what they were thinking.
The next one I hope they invent someday, the ability to take pictures with your eyes. (I know you could technically call this a memory). But how many times do you say quick get the camera but by the time you get it the moment has passed. It would also be helpful to catch the funny images we see by just driving down the road.

I also think it would be nice if blogger put in a "like" button, kinda like on facebook, because lets face it sometimes commenting is a pain.

We have also been getting creative over here and organized enough to follow through (shocking I know) and the boys made some rockets, impressive huh? The best money spent. It was all Collin and Kris I was just there to tear the tape.

Wow that was a lot of rambling.

Halloween

2009-11-03T20:24:00.004-07:00

Ok I know that Halloween has been over for a couple of days but what kind of blogger would I be if I didn't share our fun day and pictures. Actually by the Saturday I was done with Halloween and I was almost tempted to put our decorations away, I know what a party pooper. But when it was all said and done we had a really fun night I even dressed up. And I live in the best neighborhood because after trick or treating we all come together for a party, Kris even won the chili cook-off.

Collin and his friend were so cute running around together, and Porter had a blast shooting his guns.

We also had some ghost show up. Don't worry they were nice but only if we gave them candy!

Crazy

2009-10-25T14:13:00.005-07:00

That is how I am describing how things are going over here. Random people and friends keep saying things to me like "It will all be over too soon" or "Wow! you have your hands full" or "you are doing a great job with these .... energetic boys" this last one is said with a look of pity. I never have been good at keeping my feelings off of my face I guess I should practice so I don't keep getting these comments while I am out with the boys.
Some days I really do have it all together where the house is clean and everyone is relatively happy and dinner on the table, but other days the house is a wreck and everyone is crying including me.

In other news we got some family pictures taken. I love how the pictures turned out I can really see how the boys look like Kris and that makes me very happy.

randomness

2009-09-29T15:44:00.007-07:00

I feel like I should blog since I haven't in about 3 weeks but I don't have much to say because not to much has been going on except for the usually craziness of adding a 3rd child to the family. You know constant diapering, feeding, burping running around after Porter and I have major case of mommy brain, I have not been able to remember anything and often loose my train of thought in mid sentence or task. (I think I have rewritten this sentence 4 times now). But we have been "hanging in there" (that is what I like to say when people ask how the whole bishop and new baby thing are going).

Anyway, I now bring you the cute picture part of the post. enjoy.

Oh Crap-Literally

2009-08-31T07:11:00.003-07:00

There is nothing quite like the feeling of the kids in bed and your newborn, bathed, fed, changed and all bundled up cozy in his bed and knowing you have a couple of hours by yourself to sleep. BUT as you are leaving the room you hear the wonderful sound of him filling his pants.

sigh.

start all over again.

Good thing they are so cute.

The first 2 weeks

2009-08-24T09:22:00.006-07:00

We are all a little sleep deprived, the house is a mess and quit often we are still in our pajamas at 10 in the morning, but we have survived the first 2 weeks with a newborn in our house. I am actually doing pretty good and everyday I feel a little bit more "normal" I even made it to church yesterday, I really couldn't have done it without my sister's help especially when Porter decided to spit out his water and throw a toy 3 or 4 rows up during the meeting.

This little guy is doing great. He is eating and sleeping awesome for a 2 week old, I really can't complain about only getting up twice in the middle of the night to feed him (even though I do).

Collin started 1st grade and is loving it at least he says he does, he mostly talks about how fun the bus is and how he gets 3 recesses. We will see how this week goes now that homework is going to officially start. The first day and the first week of school were pretty much a blur to me thank goodness Kris is around to help him get up and off to school or else we wouldn't have made it. I will be much better this week.

For Porter, he is adjusting to not having Collin around and a new baby as well as any 2 year could. He misses Collin a lot and ask "where did Collin go" about 100 times a day. I really need to step it up on having fun things for us to do during the day, any ideas out there?

I swear I only walked away for a second and when I came back he had marker all over his arms and face.

The New Guy

2009-08-15T17:00:00.004-07:00

So I am finally getting around to posting about our new little baby but it has only been a week and I have been a little busy and TIRED. But what's new? Right.

This is our sweet little guy, we named him Evan Miller he weighed 8lbs even and was 22 inches long. We waited all day for this little one to come out, so long in fact we started regretting our decision to be induced. But he finally came and all was well.

So far he has been a good eater and sleeper, the first couple of nights were rough because all he wanted to do was eat! and poop! But things have fallen into a good groove.

The other 2 kids are absolutely in love with him, they always want to know if and when the baby's eye are open so that they can hold and lub him.

Sunday Snooze

2009-08-02T16:24:00.004-07:00

There is nothing like a Sunday nap, and hey look my husband is home today. I guess that is the advantage of 8:00 church.

I see my spot right in the middle.

2009-08-01T18:59:00.003-07:00

This is how I feel some days. Take your pick: chocolate or soda, I pick chocolate.

More info-merical fun!

2009-07-27T07:47:00.004-07:00

So I have to admit my kids and I have have watched entirely too much TV this summer, I am going to blame it on the pregnancy and heat. But I have discovered Collin like me has a little obsession with info-mericals too. These are his top 3 things that he says we need to get.

OXY CLEAN

He says this one is for me so I can get our clothes cleaner. There is something about Billy Mayes screaming at you that you just can't resist. He will be missed.

Next up, this is for Porter

He says Porter would really love it and we should TOTALLY get. I think secretly he wants it too.

This is his favorite

He says this would make it so much easier for him to brush his teeth everyday. I have to admit this one caught my eye as well, but as I thought about it it really is just a bug waste of money, I can guess my kids will still get toothpaste everywhere and I would have one more thing to clean in the bathroom.

I'm a widow

2009-07-26T11:20:00.004-07:00

No No Kris is not deceased or anything, but....

He was just called to be....

BISHOP
(Most of my readers are LDS, but if you need to know what that means let me know, and I will explain).

I really think he will do an awesome job, he is such a great leader who is very kind and patient and I look forward to the good experiences we get to have. Or maybe I am just very naive and clueless.

EEWW!!

2009-07-21T15:57:00.005-07:00

So last night I was looking out the window to see the rain coming down and enjoying the quick cool off of the night, and I noticed some of my kids toys outside, being a good mom that I am I decided to go and get them so the wouldn't get wet. As stepped outside I noticed a huge spider web with a huge black spider in it, I immediately call to Kris to kill it for me but of course his first instinct is to take a picture of it instead of squashing it.

As he is clicking away I notice another web with another black spider it in, this one was a little more skittish so we didn't get a picture but luckily the bug spray got him. And yes folks look closely at the red hour glass shape on it.... a black widow. 2 black widows to be exact.
And just when you thought a bug story couldn't get any longer, it does. I decided this morning to clean up all the leaves that blew into the web last night and as I am sweeping I see little dots running around everywhere, yep it had babies, I think maybe I need to call a bug guy.

I did it!

2009-07-18T07:54:00.003-07:00

I have finally joined up on facebook. I think this makes me really hip and cool now, well that statement probably knocked me down a few notches but still. So if you want to be my friend send me a request.

LEGOS and SAND

2009-07-15T14:31:00.005-07:00

Our children have a little obsessions with LEGOS so we thought we would feed into it a little more and take them Legoland.

Porter had so much fun going on most of the rides, he loved it and kept asking for "more rides" I was very happy he could go on most of them it made the day very pleasant that he didn't have to stay in the stroller all day.

Collin of course was tall enough to go on everything and he had a blast, I think his favorite was the fast roller coaster rides. But really he just couldn't wait for the end of the day to spend his birthday money on a LEGO set. Maybe next time we will buy things first and run them out to the car so we don't have the constant nagging. (Look at that concentration, maybe he will be a good driver someday).

Next we were on to the beach for some real fun.
For me anyways, I love the beach!

Our kids had a great time, I couldn't keep Collin out of the water, he kept splashing and playing and even tried the boogie board out. He kept getting sand in his pocket and it was weighing his pants down really bad, it was pretty funny.

Porter had a little more fun on the shore, he did go in the water but he had more fun with the shovel and the bucket. When he did go in the water he was plastered to one of our legs or in our arms.

At the end of the day we went back down to the beach to get some good sunset pictures, the lighting was great and we got some fun shots. I think I am pretty lucky to have such great looking boys around me.

I hope the movie is better

2009-07-08T14:31:00.004-07:00

Book Review Time.

I usually only post books I really enjoy and want to share, but not with this one. I was really disappointed by this book, it started out really good and interesting but then it went down hill somewhere after 50 pages or so. Its about a guy that time travels forward and backwards in time and has no control of when and where. He meets his future wife when she is 6 and he is like 40ish and the story goes on from there. But it just is so boring no surprises because he (and the readers) already knows what is going to happen and blah blah blah. Also the author felt the need to put the F word in almost every chapter and she also used some other raunchie words, it got really annoying.
There is a movie coming out in August and it look pretty good, but I think I am going to wait for it to come out on video and then I can get it from redbox and only pay $1

6 YEAR'S OLD

2009-07-01T08:13:00.006-07:00

Collin's Birthday was last weekend and we had some real LEGO fun. He wanted a LEGO themed party and I have to tell you I was clueless as how to incorporate games and stuff into a b-day party, but I pulled it off alright. The most exciting one was going on a treasure hunt for "the golden brick" and inside was a small Lego set each of the boys could put together... umm maybe I should say Kris and I ran around helping each boy put theirs together, that's why there are no pictures of that.

I made a LEGO shaped B-day cake that I will not show too closely because I think it could have turned out better, the frosting was too thin and it was too hot and it kept sliding off the cake. Luckily for the lack of good looks it made up for in taste, it was delicious, I will thank the Pillsbury Dough Boy for that.

Collin got some really fun things from his friends that he loves and plays with! But I kept the gift he really wanted for the end and I could tell as he opened each present he was thinking "this isn't the Thunder Driller", so he was really excited in the end when he got what he has been asking and saving his money for for the past 2 months!

Then of course what would be a summer birthday party be without water, so we borrowed the old blow up water slide from the in-laws and let the boys play. Every time we get it out and set it up we hold our breath hoping it will still inflates and every time we are surprised it still works, especially when the boys play so rough on it. We are lucky there were no casualties.

Pet Peeves, Annoyances, and Gratitude

2009-06-09T14:06:00.004-07:00

Well the summer is well on its way at our house and we are settling into the new summer routine, Collin is in a basketball class that he loves and soon they both will start swimming. I have really enjoyed both boys being home all day long and being able to play with both of them. I am not saying things are perfect but they are alright.
Well I did say I have some pet peeves and here they are: signing up and paying for a class and it taking forever to cash my check -like 2-3 months! Come on don't you want your money.
Another is pregnancy pants. Come on designers medium is not a one size fits all, make them medium. Not small, not big, and please put some back pockets on the butt. Everyone knows that back pockets make your butt look so much better, and if you do put them in make sure they are real, nothing is worse than thinking that you have pockets and then your hand gets stuck at the top because they are fake.

But I do have some things to be really grateful for, for instance my husband, he decided not to work out this morning so instead of sleeping in he went to the grocery store for me and did some of my shopping because he knows sometimes I just feel to tired and overwhelmed to get it done. Also, the nice weather we are having, I decided to ditch out on some house work this morning to feed the ducks at the park and I didn't melt in my own puddle of sweat.

I am also very grateful to see this, even though it makes my kitchen look messy it makes me smile to know how much fun my kids had coloring and how proud they are when we post them up on the frig.

Hiking at Red Mountain

2009-05-24T20:44:00.002-07:00

We went on a little hike on the Hawes Trail by Red Mountain this weekend. Here are some pictures from the hike.

A Surprise!

2009-05-21T07:29:00.004-07:00

Kris calls me up the other day around 4:30 and says, "make sure you feed the kids and be ready to go out at 5:30, and I took care of getting a babysitter." My thoughts were this: What? An unexpected night out, whoo hoo, oh shoot my hair is in a ponytail and I have no makeup on. Where are we going? and what are we doing? I better get moving.
Well he surprised me with tickets to see these guy!

They have a show on HBO and they are known as The Flight of the Conchords. If you don't know who they are you are missing out on some laughs.

I mentioned months ago that it would be fun to see them for our anniversary, (which is Sat.) and I thought he had completely forgotten, I know I had. But no he remember the other day and bought some tickets. We got pretty good seats for last minute sales (row 21). The only problem with our seats was the guys next to me, his poor date had to listen to him singing all the words mostly incorrect in her face almost the whole time and he got up at least 3 times to get more drinks so I am sure he smelled lovely, I really wanted to lean over and tell her she could do better. Then there were two loud and crazy drunk guys behind us everyone was annoyed at them and was telling them to be quiet, they kept refilling there drinks as well. But overall it was so fun and a great surprise, I love it that Kris likes to surprise me, I wish I was as clever and could do the same for him.

Hungry Monster

2009-05-18T13:46:00.003-07:00

Well I actually like to think of it as the Ravenous Monster that wakes me up in the middle of the night and if I don't eat something he won't let me go back to sleep. He usually only shows up during my 1st trimester and I am ready for him but he is back all the way in my 3rd trimester and with a vengeance. You are probably thinking "big deal, you are pregnant live it up, its the only time you can eat like this" but have you ever woken up in the middle of the night starving? First of all I am tired, I don't want to get up, secondly what my friend sounds good at 2:00 in the morning and doesn't require much preparation? Thirdly if I do get up I will probably have to make at least 3 stops at the bathroom. Well tonight I am going to be ready for him, I think a PB&J will do the trick, and maybe wash it down with a glass of milk, that will show who is boss.

Bubbles at any age.

2009-05-16T18:37:00.002-07:00

I got the bubbles out to play with Porter and the other two joined in. I have a 2, 5, & 7 year old, and I have to admit I really enjoy them too.

I got tp'd

2009-04-29T11:13:00.003-07:00

This is what happens when you ignore your children for too long, and this is also what 24 rolls of brand new toilet paper looks like when its get unrolled, the pictures really doesn't do it justice.

And for those of you thinking "hmm they still don't have living room furniture, haven't they had the house for awhile?" and the answer is no, and we probably won't ever get any. :)

Baby Stuff

2009-04-27T15:46:00.005-07:00

So as my due date approaches I find myself looking at all the cool new baby stuff that they didn't have 6 years ago when I had my first child. Yeah stuff has changed that much and we didn't buy a lot with the 2nd- I think only a double stroller and some bottles. Anyhow all the new cool stuff has really fun patterns and prints and I find myself sucked into all and I want it!! But I don't need another stroller or swing and a bouncer and pack n' play etc, etc. and chances are this might be my last kid so why put in the investment for stuff I only need for a year or so.
So here is my list of things I have decided I need/want to buy.
A bumbo.

This is a must, someone let us borrow theirs with Porter and it was a dream to have we used it all the time, I am trying to score one on ebay but have been out bid 3 times good thing I have 4 more months of trying to win one.

A hooter hider.

I have never been good at nursing in public in fact I am terrible at it and I hope this will help with my anxiety. I am also trying to get one through ebay or other discounts ways, I only nurse for about 4 or 5 months so I don't want to pay retail for a short term item.

And a car seat!

What a dumby I am giving my other one way. I was in total cleaning mode about a year ago and just thought hmm this is old it probably won't last through another child. Aahh!! I told Kris he needs to protect me from over cleanliness sometimes. So yes, I am on the hunt for a car seat, I am hoping to find a decent one through craigs list or someting because wow they can be expensive.
Well of course I will probably be getting more things but these are the ones that are on my mind the most. I am glad to be having another boy more use out of all of my old stuff. That is were my over cleanliness has come on handy it all still looks pretty good.

SEA WORLD

2009-04-19T19:27:00.004-07:00

We were itching to get away just for a short trip so we decided to go to San Diego to visit Sea World. Collin has been telling us for the past couple of months that he just NEEDS to go to Sea World (they have been "studying" sea life in his kindergarten class and he has really gotten into it). Over St. Patrick's day he came home with a 4 leaf clover with his special wish on it and it said "I wish I could: go to Se Wrld", I thought it was really cute.
Anyways we had a great time the weather couldn't have been more perfect and the kids had an amazing time. Collin really loved to touch all the sea life he could (if you know Collin he has come along way) and Porter of course was practically diving in the water. They loved seeing the dolphins up close, we were dissapointed that we couldn't feed them this time I guess that part is closed for now, Collin was way into the Shamu and Dolphin show. Today he told me he needs some wood so he can carve a whale fin out if it (its in the whale show for those of you haven't been to Sea World in awhile). We decided not to sit in any of the soak zones, maybe next time (something about wet jeans and a wet 2 year is just not appealing to me).

The next day we decided to check out the beach. We learned that even if you think it is to cold to let your kids go into the water put them in a bathing suit anyway, bring towels and chairs and especially don't check out of your hotel early.

They were pretty timid at first and very careful to just get their feet wet, but before to long they were running and jumping and even diving in the water. They were soaked and didn't care good thing for that extra change in clothes.

Book Review

2009-04-10T15:12:00.003-07:00

This book was recommended to me by my book group, everyone said it is a great book and worth reading and it was! It is a true story about a family in Holland during WWII who were hiding Jewish people in their home. It was really interesting and exciting reading about their clandestine work. I was very worried throughout the beginning of the book that they would be caught and then sent to a concentration camp, but this is a WWII book so I knew is was coming. But the characters were so wonderful and faithful to God throughout the book and they found miracles in small everyday things. They never gave up on their faith in God and were always sharing the Bible with others and brightening the lives of people around them because of their attitudes a willingness to share their faith. This book and the characters will stick with me for quite awhile.

Let the chaos continue!

2009-03-25T15:36:00.004-07:00

So for the past week we have had my nephews staying at our house while their parents are on a trip (remember when we went to Africa, they watched our kids and now it is our turn). So we have four kids to take care of and let me tell you its crazy how much you are needed when you have 4 little boys running around, I either have to wipe a nose, get someone a drink, give attention to someone or I catch someone being naughty, etc. etc. etc. But really its not all that bad just exhausting, Kris and I have really learned how to work as a team to get everyone taken care of. We have had some fun nights though.

First up we had a pirate treasure hunt complete with awesome cookie treasure. We have actually have done this a lot- the boys especially Collin has gotten into it.

Do you like the blanket boat the boys did.

Then we had a movie night with the new flick Bolt out on DVD early at Walmart total score and some yummy popcorn.

We also have a couple things up our sleeve to make it through the next week (Wed. to be exact but I'm not counting) so hopefully the kids are not missing their parents too much and our kids are not going too crazy over the change in routine.
So wish me luck that I don't go crazy for the next 7 days.

It's a Boy

2009-03-23T14:39:00.003-07:00

Well I haven't officially made the announcement to the blogging world so here it is: We are expecting our 3 child in August so that puts me around 19 1/2 weeks and yep you read it right we are having ANOTHER BOY. We are so excited to add another boy to this group, we were a little surprised because we thought for sure it is going to be a girl, you know we were just going with the odds, but I am glad I don't have to buy all the girl stuff (well my check book is happy) and Kris is excited to play basketball with all the boys when they get older. Overall I am happy with the outcome it sounds so cliche but I just want it to be healthy the older I get the more I worry, I wasn't worried at all with Collin but as each child comes I worry more and more over its health so hopefully everything comes out ok with this one!

Walmart vs. groceries stores

2009-03-06T13:30:00.003-07:00

I have been wondering for awhile if it really is cheaper to shop at Walmart. So I have stopped going to Walmart and my grocery bill has actually gone down. I couldn't quite figure it out so I went there today to do my shopping. (Keep in mind I add match and use coupons when I go). And this is my conclusion, I am actually saving money on groceries, but it is groceries alone! You see the regular groceries stores don't have kids pajamas for $6 or workout shirts for $5 so you end up getting 3. And Walmart is a little cheaper on things like spaghetti sauce, mayonnaise and crackers etc. so I decide to buy more than I need. So when I check out and the bill is a little over $100 and I get home and check the receipt and realize I only spent $65 or so on actual grocery store items and $30 on stuff I probably don't need or isn't in the budget for the week, I think maybe I should stick to the grocery store. After all it is cleaner, less busy and your not treated like a 2nd class citizen by the employees.
I suppose I will miss looking and the weirdos and old people...... no probably not

Mouth Breathing

2009-03-03T13:49:00.003-07:00

For the last couple of weeks I have had a cold, and with it has come a cough and stuffy nose, causing me to breath out of my mouth. Let me tell you it is not not having to breath out of your mouth for a few reason, some of them are: my lips are chapped, my breath is bad, my teeth feel really dirty all the time, and my tongue had taken on a whole new feeling. I really hate it, sometimes I do have a few moments of non stuffiness and it is bliss. ahh. BUT Kris was telling me that there are lots of people who breath out of their mouth all. the. time. What! eew gross. So people out there try to close your mouth and breath through your nose it is a very pleasant feeling, one that I miss very much and have taken advantage of in the past.

Well In other news my parents came over last night to hang out, aka see the kids. My dad loves to get on the floor and wrestle with the boys and I think the "monster" loses quite a bit because they are always doing flying jumps to pin him on the ground. They really do love their grandparents, especially Porter because he keeps asking for them to come over. I am not really sure which set he is talking about but I don't think it matters to him.

Infommericals

2009-02-19T13:18:00.010-07:00

I am crazy and addicted to infommericals here is my story.

Over the years some info-mmercials have really caught eye and had me watching and wanting a product that I really don't need or come to find out want.

For instance item number 1: The Magic Bullet.

This is an item I have wanted to buy so many times but have resisted the temptation, but even though I never bought the product I still watch the commercial like it is a TV show, any time I am flipping through the channels I stop and watch for about 20 mins or so.

Item number 2: The ped egg.

Yes I own this one. The commercial actually made me a little scared of this product, it looks like a cheese grater for your foot, but I got one and it is amazing, it actually does what it promises.

Number 3, lets not forget about proactive.

Who hasn't seen this commercial, I mean it is on all of the time. I do have to admit I have stopped watching this one because the joy and newness has worn off, and proabaly because I bought it and didn't like it.

And now onto number 4: Shamwow

Yep, this is my new info-mmercial product. I have used it once and so far it is ok, I think maybe a regular towel could do the job, but it was fun using the product.

So there it is the story of my obsession, I love infommericals.

Here are some others that are funny and I would never get but none the less I can't help but watch.

Birthday Boy

2009-02-14T13:16:00.007-07:00

Porter has turned 2!
I can't believe time goes by so fast I feel like we just celebrated his first birthday. The boys had a fun time blowing out the candles and eating the cake.

I don't think I will ever buy a cake this bright and with so much frosting again, because as you can see it stained everything it touched. It was an impulse buy, I was all ready to get the plane white frosting cupcakes with sprinkles but decided to get the blue one instead. (I just need to remember impulse buys are almost always regretted). I actually should have made my own. But everyone especially the kids had a good time and that is all that matters.

Wasting Time

2009-02-04T14:29:00.003-07:00

Have you ever sat down to your computer with full intent to get stuff done, for example pay the bills, read emails, do scrapbooking etc. the list could go on. But you think to yourself "I am just going to look at my blog (and others) for a second", then you look at the clock and an HOUR has gone by and you think well I blew that one. It happens to more often than I would like to admit. So here is to wasting time in 09. (I am so clever)

Book Review

2009-02-02T07:46:00.006-07:00

Wow, this book is a great book I would say it is one of my new favorites. I am going to describe it as: Survivor and Lord of the Flies combined. Its about a girl who lives in a place called Panem and the Capital of the place chooses 1 boy and 1 girl from each district to compete in the Hunger Games. It was interesting and exciting the moment I starting reading and there weren't a lot of places in the book that you had to "get through" it was all very good. I definitely think you should pick up a copy and read it, or borrow mine. There is one problem though... it has a sequel and it doesn't come out until September, so if you don't want to be in agony waiting for months to see what happen next, wait until August to read it.

Snow Much Fun

2009-02-02T07:22:00.003-07:00

This weekend we decided to take advantage of what little snow is left up in the mountains. And as you can see at our families cabin almost no snow is left. But we drove around and found a sledding spot.

Sledding is so much fun but on this trip we found out it is kinda dangerous. Kris took Porter down the mountain a few times and one of the times he got as little out of control and Porter's boot came off and scraped his foot on the ice and Kris put his hand down wrong and hurt his thumb. A trip to urgent care told us it wasn't broken but I think next year we will be a little bit more careful and maybe get some get some snow tubes instead. (The ride looks a little softer).

Collin had no problems sledding by himself and with his cousins (sorry no pictures by this time I am holding Porter) But Collin had a blast and they both loved walking around and playing in the snow.

Friendship or Rivalry?

2009-01-25T14:12:00.003-07:00

Are my thoughts as I come out into the family room and see my 2 boys sitting very close to each other on the couch. At fisrt I think oh how cute they just want to be next to each other to watch TV, then as I hear "hey my blanket, no my blanket," "scoot over mmmm you're in my space" I realize what is happening. It is the fight for the coveted spot on the couch. And even though Collin is bigger, my bets are on the little one.

Blahhhgg

2009-01-15T16:09:00.003-07:00

Well its time to get back to it and get the blog updated, I really just haven't been feeling like doing anything since the holidays and I am coming off a massive head cold that I thought was going to take me out!
On New Years Day we went for a morning hike and it was so pleasant and fun that I think we might make it a tradition. We went about 3 miles and the kids did great, Porter walked about half way and Collin was a trooper we went the whole way and with almost no complaining.

Collin insisted on bringing his backpack full of essentials (Tie Fighter, Darth Vadar, Luke Sykwalker, and Indiana Jones). He also found a great walking stick that he got rid of half way through the hike because he thought someone else might find it and need it more than him.

Well I mentioned that I was really sick for awhile and I do have the greatest husband so he took the kids for the whole day while I caught up on some reality TV, I mean rest. (No I really did sleep quite a bit). But here are some great pictures he took at the park.

Porter's smile is so contagious!

And he is a dare devil not afraid to crawl, climb and jump on anything.

What's been goin' on?

2008-12-16T13:21:00.004-07:00

Well I don't know where the time goes, I can't believe I haven't updated in awhile, especially because I do look at your guy's blog almost everyday!
Well not much excitement has happened around here just the regular old routine of taking care of kids. Collin did have a kindergarten presentation last week called "Mother Goose Meets The Gingerbread Man" he was so cute and sang and did his little actions to the songs the whole time and was so cute. Unfortunately my pictures turned a little blurry and I got ones where he wasn't smiling which is hard to believe because he has a huge grin the whole time.

Porter has discovered a love for trains recently which is awesome because the train set Collin had is now being used and not collecting dust anymore. (I am glad to know my money is being put to good use). All he wants to do is play "choochoos" and he wants one of us to be in the playroom at all times while he is playing, heaven forbid I need to use the restroom because if I leave he is right on my tail saying "choochoos, choochoos", I really so love playing with him I promises.

Its raining, its pouring.....

2008-11-26T15:13:00.003-07:00

I have found out today that Porter loves the rain. As soon as it started coming down all he wanted to do was go outside. He stood by the door for a good 5 minutes just watching and saying "side, side". Well when the rain was over for the morning I took him out and he absolutely loved the puddles, he new exactly what to do, jump in them, put his hands in them and he even tried to drink it. (gross, I know) He was so happy to be out in the cool weather, I wished it rained more then twice a year here.

1 down 19 more to go!

2008-11-12T15:23:00.004-07:00

It has finally come out, Collin's first loose tooth has come out! He has been working on this tooth for a little over month. And of course he decided it absolutely needed to come out in church with his nice white shirt on. He was pretty excited though and even more excited to have the tooth fairy come. He couldn't decide if the tooth fairy was a girl or a boy but then he said "mom fairies where dresses and have wings so it must be a girl right?" and that decided it, the tooth fairy that comes to our house is s girl.

Halloween

2008-11-03T16:07:00.002-07:00

We were feeling pretty safe on Halloween night with our very own super heros living at home. Trick or treating went very well, our neighborhood is this best, they all came out and sat on their driveways which was nice because it made it go faster. Porter wasn't interested in going so he help Dad pass out the candy and eat all of the lollipops he probably had about 5 but never finished any of them in fact I found one stuck to his bum but not until I was getting him undressed for the night... oops
Hope everyone had a fun night!

Africa

2008-11-01T14:24:00.010-07:00

So many of you have asked for pictures and now here they are...

The first stop of our adventure was Zimbabwe. We actually had to fly into Zambia then drive over to Zimbabwe because Zimbabwe Air only has 1 airplane that flies into Victoria Falls and it was booked. We stayed in a really nice place I think they call them bushmen camps, our rooms reminded me of an upscale girls camp cabin. Fully equipped with mosquito nets, so you know, you don't get malaria.

After settling in we were off for some adventure! First stop the bungee. The best way to describe jumping is crazy fun, crazy because your body really doesn't want you to jump off a bridge (I am glad I have survival instincts) and fun because it was so exhilarating soaring through the air, I was also concentrating really hard on keeping good form because at the top the workers make you scared if you don't, I guess you can spin if you don't and that's not good.

We also did the zipline which felt like an uncomfortable roller coaster ride, but it was fun going with Kris. We also did a flyng fox, and gorge swing. The gorge swing was as scary maybe even more scarier than the bungee because you jump feet first and you free fall before you swing, and you are more aware of things upright than upside down.

After all of that fun we went to Victoria Falls. It was beautiful, and very wet, my shirt and hair were damp because of all of the back splash from the falls and this is the dry season. During the wet season it is a wall of water across the rocks and sometimes you can't even see the falls due to the spray of the water.

The next day we went river rafting, it was the funnest day and not scary at all. We flipped our raft twice and had to swim back to the raft and flip it back over. The paddling wasn't too bad because there were so many rapids that it did the work for us. And our guide was the really good at getting us to the best possible spot to ride the rapid.

This is my favorite picture because you can see my mother-in-laws feet sticking out of the water as she is falling out of the raft and because you can see everyone hanging on for dear life not to fall in themselves.
Zimbabwe was a very fun and beautiful place with very kind and giving people. They are having a hard time right now because of bad leadership in the government and there is no food. All of the grocery stores were closed and even the 7-11 only had coke in it and it cost $3 a bottle. We ate very well and I was actually very guilty about eating veggies and meat while they are eating bread in sour milk (apparently they like that).

THEN ON TO BOSTWANA
We went to the Chobe river and the Chobe National preserve. It was so much fun to see the animals and be so close to them and actually hunt for them, because they like to hide. So get ready for a lots of pictures of animals!

Elephants! They were my favorite animal to look at and watch. Even though they are so big they are actually very peaceful and quiet animals.

Crocadiles. I did not like these guys, they were creepy and scary. And all over the place, all over the water and I was a little scared. But we got some good pictures of them.

Baboons. They were everywhere, but the cutest part of them were the babies. Their mothers were always close by and very pretective.

Hippos. The hippos were pretty cool they always hung around in families, I don't think they liked us because they bumped our boat and blew water at us.

Leoprads They were the prettiest and hardest animals to see, this one just finished eating a turtle.

Lions. This Lion just killed a kudu and was so tired from all of her food. Don't you love the guts coming out of the kudu, real pretty hugh?

The Mighty Zambezi

2008-10-22T22:49:00.001-07:00

Hello from Africa!
We just got back to Johannesburg from our trip to Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Botswana. We got to go whitewater rafting on the greatest one-day rafting trip in the world! The river is called the Zambezi and within just a few hours you tackle four class 5 rapids, five class 4, and a ton of class 3. It is 23 major rapids in about 4 hours.
Here is one of the pictures we got. That's me and my dad in front, then Sarah and my mom right behind. It was so much fun! Can't wait to see you guys!

Kris

Dear Cooler Weather

2008-10-13T08:13:00.004-07:00

Thank you cooler weather for coming this weekend, you really have made me feel happy. I could wear my jeans all day without breaking a sweat and I left my windows open and didn't have to run my air conditioner all weekend. I know you are just teasing me by coming today and leaving soon (high next weekend is 90) but thanks for the short preview of how winter will be.

New blog on the block

2008-10-06T07:48:00.005-07:00

So if you haven't noticed on my side bar Kris has started a blog! Hard to believe I know. But it is actually really funny, he has the great ability to find really great and hilarious things on the internet. So go ahead take a look and have a laugh. Click here.

Follow in his father's tread.

2008-09-28T10:51:00.003-07:00

He is riding! Collin has overcome his fear and is riding his bike. He has known how to ride for awhile now but he just didn't want to get out there for the fear of falling. But yesterday we gave it another try, and he did awesome! Kris didn't even have to help him much. He just got him started and then he was off.

Kris even had a go at the bike and did a great job. A great job at not breaking the thing.

!?QUESTIONS?!

2008-09-14T08:07:00.004-07:00

Lately Collin has been asking me a lot of questions, many questions in fact and I find myself knowing the answers but not enough to answer them the way he wants me to. For instance these are some of the questions he has asked over the last week.

1. Why does our flag have stars? Why do we not use the old flag with the circle of stars?
2. What about the stripes, and why is there blue on the flag?
3. Can we go to Venus? and Mars?
4. Why do we have a sun? Why can't we look at the sun?
5. How come they don't make rockets powerful enough to get to Neptune?

After I try my hardest to explain some of these things I usually have not answered them sufficiently and he asked even more questions that I'm not sure how to answer. At this point I am tired of talking and I am very tempted to sigh and say "I Don't Know!" (I have to admit I have done that).
So now I am thinking about buying a book like this to help me out with all the things I should know but don't.

Play Time

2008-09-10T15:21:00.002-07:00

So my boys don't really "play" together that much because their age difference is so big, but when they do they have a great time. They got on the skitter one morning and they were zooming around the house with lots of laughs. Collin is such a good big brother and Porter loves to copy and be just like his big brother.

Photo Booth

2008-09-08T21:16:00.002-07:00

I have had this fun program on the laptop for 2 years and I am just finding out about it. Just think of the countless hours I could have wasted playing with this over that time!

Talk about a hook nose, mmm Collin your face smells good.

Maybe a new hair style would be better for such a small face.

I must be a very secure person to put these pictures of myself on here.

Rocks

2008-08-24T08:02:00.005-07:00

Disclaimer this might be only cute for me, the mom.

Collin came home from school the other day and was really excited, this was our conversation.

Collin: Mom guess what I got, it is really cool you are gonna love it.
Sarah: What? I can't guess just show me.
Collin: This really cool rock, oh and this rock and this rock. Oh... and and this string oh and I forgot some sand.
Sarah: Thats really cool. (in my mind: eewh its all over my nice clean table, don't say anything to dampen his spirits he is really excited about his rocks and it is pretty cute he brought them home in his pocket, I wonder how long he has had them in there.

1st Day Of School

2008-08-12T15:59:00.007-07:00

So I know there are going to be a lot of post like these in the next few weeks but I don't care so here it goes.
My baby is 5 and he went to kindergarten yesterday. I can't believe I am old enough to have him in kindergarten, where did the time go? (He picked out his own outfit I had something cuter planned but I got shot down).

(For some reason he wanted to try posing for the camera). If you think he looks a little tired it is because he is! He woke up 3 time the night before, I'm not sure if it was nerves or just like he said bathroom, bad dream, and can you tuck me back in. But I had to wake him up twice now which is funny because he is a 7:00 on the dot kind of kid.

He was very excited to go and was all smiles. When he got home I asked what was the best part of the day and he said "riding home on the bus", and the bad part of the day was "going to school". Not sure what to make of it but later he told me he got lost after lunch and that is why he didn't like school.
But the second day was great and he didn't get lost at all, he said "it was better than the first"! So hooray school is a hit, maybe I can stop worrying about him... well probably not.

Done and Done

2008-08-05T21:35:00.006-07:00

I told myself I wasn't going to read this book so fast, at least let it take me a week, but no just like her other books I just get hooked and can't stop myself and I finished in 3 days. It was good and I liked it, but I have to say it was not my favorite of the four books, but I am glad the story was nicely wrapped up for every character.

Family Reunion

2008-08-05T20:33:00.003-07:00

Over the weekend we went camping for the ever so famous reunion. It actually was a lot of work. I never realized how much parents actually do when planning for a camping trip. (Thanks Denise I never let you do it alone again) Phew. I am glad its over but we had a great time and the kids had a blast!

The kids really lived it up this year and they got amazingly dirty.

Stick, marshmallow, a dirty face, what else do you need?

Porter figured out real quick where the treats were, and he never hesitated.

Collin had the best time with his BB gun. They were doing target practice most of the day and then they tried out the real thing. He came back from "hunting" very proudly saying he shot a rabbit and a squirrel. I was just glad the gun was pretty weak and the BB's just bounced off the poor creatures because I didn't want any dead animals laying around.

It was a lot of fun and we learned what to do and what not to do, so next year will be more fun. And I know my kids are going to have a lot of memories of the reunion camping trips for the years to come.

Nothing is Safe!

2008-07-18T09:45:00.002-07:00

You are probably looking at this picture thinking "no big deal a kid on a chair playing with some toys." Well that is true but it also means Porter has learned to climb up on a chair by himself and play with the ever so easily lost or swallowed legos that we only keep and play with on the table on purpose to keep him away from them. Oh he really is giving me a run for the money.

Another thing he can do:

I was in the kitchen and I hear someone calling my name, it was my neighbor, no she didn't just walk into my house, she said Porter answered the door for her! He can open my huge big wooden door all by himself.
He is definitely keeping me on my toes.

2008-07-16T11:01:00.002-07:00

So every morning when I go to get dressed this is what goes through my mind...

Hmm... what should I wear, well its going to be hot I will probably get a little sweaty, its going to get hotter as the day goes on, I will probably have to go outside with the kids a least once, I will get sweaty-er. Oh ok fine I will wear these ugly shorts and this T-shirt again since it so HOT.
Cooler weather please hurry up and come so I can wear jeans and a cute shirts again without having to peel them off.

Family Fun

2008-07-09T16:17:00.005-07:00

We have been busy lately do you want to see what we have been doing? Read on if you do.

First off it was Collin's Birthday, he turned the BIG 5. We had our first kid party and I wish it was my last. I had 9 little boys running around wanting to do all the activities I had planned in the first 5 min, all they wanted was to get to the good part, cake ice cream and presents off course. Well I held them off and I think they had a good time.

The next day we went to my parents to see my older brother and his family, they flew in from Colorado for my younger brothers farewell. Since we had everyone in town my parents wanted to get family pictures, OUTSIDE, an hour in June is not fun. But the kids were happy to see and play with each other. I am so happy they are good friends.

(Do you like the new Indiana Jones homemade shirt by Laura?)

Then it was my brother's farewell. He is going to the Conception, Chili mission. He left last Wednesday, I am so excited for him to go. He is going to be a great missionary he has such a good personality and a great heart.

Lastly, I invited my family to my in-laws cabin for the 4th of July. It was so nice and cool up in the mountains, it really makes me wonder why I live somewhere so hot, I guess I get my answer from October-May. Collin, Kris, and Nick (my sis boy friend) worked super hard on our fort it looks awesome I hope it holds up. And for the girls we got lot of phase ten and scramble under our belts. It really was a nice weekend.

Phew, I am tired of writing, are you tired of reading?

AHHH, you can open doors?

2008-06-26T15:48:00.005-07:00

All week long Porter has been bringing me cereal boxes and I keep thinking did I leave the pantry door open? Well I guess not because today I caught him. And he brought me another box of cereal, and nuts, and chips, dried fruit, and the list goes on and on. No wonder I have been trouble getting him to eat at meal times, he has been snacking all day! (And yes we bought the frosted flakes just to get the cool Indiana Jones spoon, clever marketing).

Pictures

2008-06-18T19:48:00.003-07:00

While we were in Colorado, Kelly took some pictures of our family. She did and does an awesome job, she is so talented at taking pictures, and she knows when you have little kids it best to just start clicking away and not wait for the perfect picture moment. I think she did a great job at capturing my beautiful family. Here are some of my favorites.

Thanks to Kelly for the wonderful pictures. If you want to see more of her pictures she is on my side bar at Kels Creations.

Precious Moments

2008-06-11T20:55:00.004-07:00

I'll probably take some heat for these but the "Precious Moments" figurines are just so easy to mess around with in Photoshop. They may not seem funny to you but they crack me up...a lot.