We Love Family

Grams is 92

2012-01-30T11:50:00.000-08:00

My Grama A turned 92 on January 14. My Aunt Janice planned a fun party for her that day. We had a lot of people come - some as far as Boise! It was a fun day.

My aunt told Grama that the present was a practical one and Grama said, "handkerchiefs..." Sure enough, that's what it was.

Here is the yummy chocolate cake.

Grama was cracking up trying to blow out the candles. She finally did get them after quite a few tries.

My Grama is doing well and we feel lucky to have her in our home. She brings a sweet spirit with her and I am grateful my kids are getting to know her. What a blessing this has been for our family.

Happy Birthday Grama!

This N That

2012-01-19T11:49:00.000-08:00

Well, we have been up to this and that since Christmas. Here's a quick update. The kids were out of school for MLK Day so we went to Creativity Studio to do some painting.

Jack and dad painted an army tank bank.

Maddie painted a heart box that she is going to keep her jewelry in.

Grama thinks all my kids are artistic geniuses...I agree.

Jacee painted a fairy. The owner of the studio was fascsinated with her. He said, usually kids come in, slap some paint on and there you go. Jacee was so meticulous with hers. She could have spent another 1/2 on hers but we rushed her in the end to finish so we could go. Which reminds me, we need to find some art classes for her...

We've also been to the kids workshop at home depot. Race cars and tool boxes this time.

Now that mom has a new computer (dad's old one) the kids get their own (mom's old one). Maddie is making the space her own by making a booster seat out of the regular seat - where does she get this stuff?

I have discovered pinterest and was determined to not only find fun things - but actually try to do some of the things I have found. I have never known how to french braid - here is my first attempt on Maddie - not bad. Thanks Pinterest!

And here is my second attempt - not as good but fun! My husband sure does love me. What a good sport!

Another pinterest find - glow in the dark bath time. The kids had a BLAST! Of course the glow sticks did turn into light sabers fairly quickly.

And that's what we've been up to so far this year.

Copy Cat

2012-01-18T18:24:00.000-08:00

I use to be a writer. I loved English class. I wrote a fabulous paper now and then. I use to really care about being clever...now for some reason I don't. As I got older and my life changed, my energies were focused elsewhere and some things just had to give. So I guess the energy I used to use in writing was not to much a talent as hard work and I have traded that. Those with a true talent for writing can write clever things while the timer is beeping on the stove signaling that dinner is ready, one child asking for help and another child just hanging on her. I am not one of those. So while I gravitate towards some of my favorite blogs with clever writing and wish I had the time and energy to write that way - I will settle for stealing ideas from the those blogs and call it good.

One of my favorites if from my cousin Becky (is she my cousin? second cousin? Officially she is my cousin's daughter so whatever that is.) We really have only spoken in person a handful of times, but I feel as if I know her. And I feel as if I knew her in "real' life we would get along splendidly. She is clever and talented and funny. I'm lucky to be able to call her family - however extended.

So, I am copying her latest entry - just filling in my answers. If you want to read some clever writing - here is her blog. Click here.

listening: to Jack play Lego Star Wars

eating:Dove Chocolates - love them!

drinking: DP of course...

weather: freezing

wanting: to do some home improvements...but where to start?

needing:to organize my recipes and try something new for dinner

thinking: that my kids have grown way too fast...remember when they were all little and home all day?

enjoying:Pintrest...I've actually followed through on two things I have pinned!

wearing: my fuzzy sweats...they have John's approval

feeling:unsettled...when is the snow coming? Are we going to get it from Feb - May?

The Party that was not a Birthday Party

2012-01-13T14:24:00.000-08:00

Sometimes Maddie is content to be at home with me, just the two of us and sometimes she is not. The other day she announced she was going to have a party that was not a party. She wanted pink cupcakes and to play games. She made invitations and we took them around to her friends, and then they came.

We started with cupcakes because Maddie had been looking at them all day and just couldn't stand it anymore.

I had them all frosted but each girl got to put her own sprinkles on. They actually did very well. It's kinda weird to be at the stage where my kids don't douse their cupcake until it is just a pile of sprinkles. My kids are growing up!

Maddie tends to get a little silly when her friends are around. What do you do? Most of the time I just go with it. I mean - she's so stinkin' cute I just can't help but laugh.

It was a successful party and she is already planning her next one!

Yep, that's my girl!

2012-01-10T11:48:00.000-08:00

Maddie and I get to spend alot of time together since Jackson is in school all day now. We run errands, we play, we watch movies. I just love her spirit and individuality. I think she's going to be just like me! Here are two examples of her outfits on some of our errands. Yes, I let her dress like this while in public. We do have rules for church or if we are going someplace nice so there are times she doesn't get a choice - and yes, usually those times involve tears. But when going to Costco or Target, I think it's ok.

Love you Maddie Moo!

The Hair Cut

2012-01-08T15:56:00.000-08:00

Jacee walks a fine line between wanting to grow her hair out or having a sassy hairstyle. She does grow it and then just wants it cut. We went to get it cut and afterwards she was twirling and whirling around and said, "I feel like me again!" It is darling and I love it and I love her. You are beautiful my sweetie!

Father of the Year

2012-01-02T08:42:00.000-08:00

My husband seems to always be busy and this Christmas Break was no exception. He was busy playing with our kids! Here's a little preview of some of the activities he did this past week.

Helicopter with Jack (ok, so the helicopter is his but he let Jack hold it!)

Battle ship and Guess Who and Trouble

Bug Maker and Grinder - don't ask

Christmas Tree Game

Chinese Checkers

Shrinky Dinks

More Chinese Checkers

Just Dance 3

Teaching Jack to Shave (this will warrant it's own post later)

Lego Star Wars

Yep, he's been busy this break - being a fabulous dad. Thanks honey. I have never loved you more.

Christmas Day

2011-12-27T12:04:00.000-08:00

We had a fabulous Christmas. We started with our traditional - everyone in mom and dad's bed. This proved to be a challenge with our new home. The kids sleep down stairs and to get to our room they emerge from the basement right into the family room, right where Santa had laid out all the presents. We practiced the night before - running up the stairs right into mom and dad's room with only one small peek allowed. No, detours of any kind allowed. Jacee took her one peek but Jack ran right into our room without even looking - he is such an obedient boy.

Jacee writes a note to Santa every year - and this year he wrote back!

My mother-in-law told me when I married John that I needed to by him at least one toy every Christmas - this year it was a remote controlled helicopter.

Grama and Grampa got to stay with us this year - we love having them!

Maddie wanted a waitress cart and luckily Santa came through.

More bey-blades and launchers.

I think we wore out Grampa.

On Christmas eve we have a tradition of making gingerbread houses. I think they turned out great this year.

We always get a special visitor each Christmas eve who gives out one present to the kids - of course it's pjs.

Jacee got an electric scooter this year. One good thing about no snow is she could go outside for a trial run.

The kids left carrots for the reindeer outside this year. Luckily the reindeer found them and nibbled on a few.

We wore out dad also.

I got some dr. pepper jammies from our AF family. They know me so well!

Santa always brings something for Jackson to build. This set builds a bunch of cars/planes and other things.

Our darling kids by the tree.

John showing off his Christmas socks he wore to church.

We had such a wonderful Christmas. My husband works so hard to make it the best day of the year. Thanks honey - you rock! Lover you.

A Serendipitous Meeting

2011-12-26T16:14:00.000-08:00

Our family tries to hit temple square every year and this year we just "happen" to go on Jacee's birthday at 5pm starting at the Assembly Hall. You can imagine our surprise when the Fishers showed up and also the Jupiter Petersens. Hooray!

John had to stay home with Gams because they were both sick.

Michael, Jack and Sammie were best buddies. They held hands most of the time. Maddie just joined whatever group she felt like.

Our favorite place to pose - the bridal pedestal.

Need to include Maddie!

The boys - this time we called it the groom pedestal.

The teen-age girls. It won't be long until they are here in white as a bride.

Afterwards we went to Chilis for Jacee's bday dinner. We waited, and waited, and waited. Finally we got a table and ate LOTS of chips and Salsa - yum!

Afterwards we came and had a giant cousin sleepover under the Christmas tree.

Somehow Sammy scored the couch.

A group pic with Grama A.

Daniel was on his way home from CA so he rendezvoused with the Fishers at our house. He is such a great cousin - he raises the fun level everytime he comes.

We are so glad the Fishers are willing to drive to Utah in the middle of all the busy holiday stuff. We sure love them. We have a motto in our family - everything is more fun with the Fishers! Thanks for coming - we loved it!

Christmas Performances

2011-12-26T15:55:00.000-08:00

Jacee is in her school choir this year and they put on a Christmas Concert. It was so fun to go see her perform.

Maddie is a natural performer also, she was very entertaining while we were waiting for the concert to start.

Our school also does a sing-in each year. Each grade learns a song, files in and sings it for the parents and then off they go so the next grade can come in. Jack is in a green shirt on the second row.

Here is Jacee for her sing-in.

And here I am with Mads - just enjoying the whole thing!

Jacee is Nine!

2011-12-26T15:11:00.000-08:00

In our family we have some pretty good traditions and birthdays are no exception. We decorate with streamers and balloons, wake up to donuts and chocolate milk and open ALL the presents at breakfast.

This year she was all about Monster High. Her favorite is Cleo-de-Nile. She got the "barbie", Drop Dead Diary, Three books, and some other fun Monster High Stuff.

Happy Birthday my first born!

Jingle Fest

2011-12-26T14:44:00.000-08:00

So...we have a friend that is, what is the word? Creative, let's just say that. Well, she put on a Jingle fest and we got together and played a combination Bingo, White Elephant, and Musical Chairs. It was great! Instead of trying to explain it all, I'm just going to let you enjoy the pictures.

The adults played the last round, guess who was the first to get Jingo? Yep, my man! (And he also won the second round...Winning!)

This is one of my favorite pics. We might spend a little bit of time at their house - and Jackson just cuddled right up to Troy for this pick - love it!

We were recently asked why we want to live in this neighborhood - and the answer is because of our NEIGHBORS. We love you guys and are so glad we are friends.

(Oh, and the pool is pretty awesome too!)

Thanksgiving Re-cap

2011-12-26T14:21:00.000-08:00

Jackson's class did a healthy tasting party for Thanksgiving. The teacher times it so that they are studying the food pyramid and wraps it up that week. It is great. A very creative mom send in this turkey for her son's tasty treat - isn't it awesome!

I am Jack's room mom so I get to spend a lot of time in his classroom. Lucky me!

We have a tradition of getting our nails done the day before we leave for our big Thanksgiving trip to Burley. Jacee picked metallic gold polish with a stenciled flower design - so cute.

This year Geni organized a turkey bowl. One thing I love, love, love about John's family is the older kids really include and take care of the little ones. What great young people we have.

John was the ref but he couldn't help but get in on the action.

Maddie and Jada spent most of their time on the swings.

Jack tackled each big boy randomly - he sure is tough!

Grampa Brent had knee surgery right before Thanksgiving so it was up to the big boys and John to wrangle all the trees and drag them down the mountain. They did a fabulous job and I LOVE the tree they brought to me.

This is Jacee's first time to go wrangle trees. John said she dragged an entire tree off the mountain herself.

Our Thanksgiving week is steeped in tradition. Here we are at our annual bowling night. Jack wanted to try it without the "thingy" so here he is giving it a throw.

Jacee is getting better and better. Sometimes I can't believe how grown up she is.

All Maddie cared about was that she got a pink bowling ball - kinda like her mom.

We love Thanksgiving and are so glad Grama and Grampa are willing to host every year. It's a fabulous time!

Lady Jacee

2011-12-26T11:34:00.000-08:00

In Jacee's third grade class they live in the Queen-dom of Durfee. After earning many jewels to put on her shield, Jacee was knighted Lady Jacee. She was the third in the class and the first girl. We are so proud!

Her emblem she picked for her shield was a dragon. We love you Jacee - great job on working so hard to achieve your goal!

The Perfect Gift

2011-12-16T07:50:00.000-08:00

Maddie is really into wrapping presents this year. She wraps whatever is handy with whatever paper is handy - and sometimes it doesn't even need to be paper. I have been given special gifts of old paper clips and broken necklaces wrapped in her blankets. The only constant to her wrapping - a bow and scotch tape. This little girl is something else. Here is her latest gift to me. Upon first glance you might not be able to tell what it is (I sure didn't).

Upon closer examination, you may see the very handy button on the top.

And you may notice the nifty little "cleaning rag" on the bottom. You just put this in the middle of your room, press the button and prest-o - you have an automatic floor cleaner!

Since opening this wonderful present, I find it in various rooms around the house. Maddie picks a room that obviously needs the floor cleaned, sets it down, presses the button and walks away.

I guess she thinks I need to vacuum more often!

This n That and a Visit with Santa

2011-12-08T13:09:00.001-08:00

Jacee's first trip going up to the mountains to wrangle us a wild tree. Love this tradition and they did a GREAT job. Love the tree they brought back.

Yes, Miss Lehi and THE Hilary Weeks. One day Jacee will know who she is.

Another fun kids workshop. We now have three snowman napkin holders.

I love our neighborhood. They bring in Santa and Mrs. Clause right to our clubhouse. This year we only had to wait in line for 15 minutes and then got free donuts and juice afterwards. No more waiting in the line at the mall!

Maddie did NOT want to talk to Santa at all. She desperately wanted the candy cane and tried to make many deals with me to get one without actually talking to Santa...mom - will you get me one. Mom, will tell Santa what I want. Mom, mom, mom. She did finally get the courage up to go get her picture and whisper that she wanted a waitress cart. Whew...

Randomness

2011-12-02T08:58:00.001-08:00

I have been trying to organize my picture files and I came across a couple of pics that I love. This first one is Jackson's tennis shoes. Yep, I think it's time for new ones. Funny how he has three pairs of shoes and my girls have so many...why is that?

Maddie finally old enough for preschool. She loves to do things but she is also very shy. She is such an interesting combination of John and me. Sometimes it drives us crazy but most of the time it makes us smile.

Building a temple with the jenga blocks - but gotta keep it cool with the peace sign.

Jackson and I get to spend some time together going to some of his dr. appt. His ENT is in Provo, so every time we go there we stop at Krispy Kreme on the way home. I am amazed at how well he does with hearing in just one ear. He just tells people to talk in his other ear or turns his head to accomidate. Love him.

Here we are at kids workshop. Jacee wanted a picture with the Home Depot girls. They thought it was so funny. We go again tomorrow. Fun FREE projects.

One day I went to go out to the car to find this cute note on my white board. Jack's creation. He is tenderhearted and thoughtful. He loves that he is starting to figure out how to spell and read. And he has pretty good penmanship for a first grader!

Daddy Daughter Date

2011-12-02T08:44:00.001-08:00

John was judging a dancing with the athletes competition at Lehi High School tonight so he took Jacee as his date. The director of the team was on our team when Jacee was born. Time has just flown by. It seems like yesterday that we were taking our newborn little baby on a tour bus to SF. Now look at her. They had a great time and John got to judge with the current Miss Lehi and Hilary Weeks - yes, THE Hilary Weeks. Pretty cool night and some good bonding for father and daughter. Yep, in spite of it all we have a pretty good life. Love you two!

Mom and Dad's Visit

2011-12-01T20:34:00.001-08:00

Mom and dad got to come home in October for some new temple president training. How lucky for us they got to come a few days early! We had most everyone come to our house because it is easier with Grama A if we are going to be up late to be here. It was a wonderful visit, though much too short. Everyone was enjoying the love - especially Jacee and Ashley!

I love this picture. When I think of my dad I think of a loving, happy man full of laughter. He rarely smiles in pictures so when we get one of him laughing and smiling - we have captured a more true essence of him. It just makes me smile to see him smile!

We of course needed to do something to entertain the kids so we made jack-o-lantern jars. Pretty easy - orange, black and green crepe paper stuck on with a little glue water.

They turned out darling! We have been doing this craft for a couple of years so I now have enough to line our sidewalk on Halloween.

Of course Grama A loved to visit with mom and dad. She thinks they are pretty special - and so do I!

So glad you got to come visit - can't wait to see you in March. You are coming in March right?

Trim the Wild Tree

2011-11-30T08:11:00.001-08:00

Every year at Thanksgiving, our family goes up into the Idaho mountains to wrangle a wild Christmas Tree. This was Jacee's first year to go and I must say they brought home a beauty! We tie it to the top of our van and then we decorate the Monday after Thanksgiving. Props to my husband who did a great job on lights - it looks, in a word, magical.

This year, John and I just let the kids put the ornaments on wherever they wanted. My plan it to eventually get to it and balance it out. We'll see if that happens or not.

This picture just seems so full of innocence to me. My little Maddie having a quiet moment because this is the first year she gets to help put on the glass ornaments. Before she was too young because she would break them. She couldn't believe she is one of the big kids now. It was a special moment for her to put on her first glass ornament.

John was in charge of ornament dispersal.

Jacee had the honor of putting on our last ornament this year. Quite a few years ago my friend Quinnette (thanks Q!) gave us a nail with a small red ribbon tied around it. It symbolizes the Savior and His sacrifice for us. It is always given a place of honor on the tree and the kids always want to be the lucky one to put it on. Maddie is so darling, she calls it "the nail of Jesus Christ". It is her turn next year and she can hardly wait.

This was totally an impromptu moment. I LOVE IT! Check out that expression. It is probably because of the season, or that I am just a cry baby naturally, but I just seem to be overcome with emotion when I look at this picture. I am pretty lucky to have these three precious children. They complete my wonderful life with my wonderful husband. I am blessed.

Let the holidays begin!

The Day After

2011-11-05T20:32:00.000-07:00

Yep, you know it's the morning after Halloween when each kid gets a bucket o' candy for breakfast!

Halloween - oh what a night!

2011-11-01T09:24:00.000-07:00

Here are my little spooks before leaving for school. Jacee is Cleo d'Nile from Monster High. Maddie is Dorothy, and Jackson is a Samuri Power Ranger.

Jacee in the school parade. She held a sign so people would know what she was. What a smartie!

This is right before they left Trick-or-Treating. I have no idea what the peace signs are all about...but we just went with it.

Somtimes I can't believe how grown up she is. She went with Jackson and Maddie for a half hour and then went with Kimble and Carter because they are the Kings of Trick-or-Treating. She said she had fun and the boys took such great care of her, but she missed being with her family in our neighborhood (ahhhh) so she thinks next year she will stay with us...we'll see.

Jackson, my sweet boy, he went for about an hour and then just hung out with us in the garage eating scones and corn chowder. He likes candy but just likes hanging out. Love him!

Grama wanted to be a witch so we ran and got her a hat at Wal-mart. I couldn't believe they were putting things away already and getting out Christmas stuff...it was hard to find Halloween stuff on Halloween! She opted out of hanging out in the garage for the scone fest but enjoyed seeing our kids count their candy in the family room.

Jacee's haul...

This is one of the first years we have had the Sunrise Petersen's over because they are usually in Mapleton. We are so glad they came! We loved having them over.

We our on our second annual Scone Fest. We gave out everyone of our 204 scones and could have given more. We need to remember when the weather is warmer, alot more people come out. We ran out of honey butter and butter and napkins, but still had a good time. We made corn chowder in bread bowls and had some friends over the entire time. It was great! We had so much fun I forgot to get the camera out during the actual festivities. It is great to have people come in and hang out and chat instead of just a quick hey at the door. WE LOVE OUR NEIGHBORHOOD!

Overall, it was one of the best Halloweens ever! Great weather, fun costumes, fun company and a yummy night.

It is raining and snowing (a little) right now but that's ok...let the Holiday Season begin!

Another Great Pumpkin Carving Party

2011-10-30T22:01:00.001-07:00

Corn Belly's

2011-10-24T20:55:00.000-07:00

I have to say, since living in Utah, we have been pretty loyal to HeeHaws Pumpkin Patch. This year, we got some coupons for Cornbelly's so we decided to give it a chance - and we LOVED it. With the coupons, it was cheaper than Hee Haws and everything was included in the admission price - so the kids could do everything instead of us saying, "No, you can't do that because it costs extra." Hooray for Cornbelly's! John got three shots out of the corn cob cannon for helping with the pig races - Jack loved it.

Maddie was in heaven at the Pumpkin Princess Playground. She had to have one serious shot and one silly shot in the carriage.

This might have been one of my favorites of the evening - the hippity-hop horses. John was awesome! I tried to get some action shots of his hair bouncing around - it was great!

The castle changed our entire design for our backyard playset - we will now have a two-story castle instead of a boring old fort. It's going to be awesome - someday!

Duck races were Jacee's favorite.

The corn snake was more fun to take a picture by than to actually walk through.

These peddle cars were Jack's favorite thing of the evening. We were pretty lucky and came when it wasn't too busy so not a lot of lines. They got to ride the peddle cars a few times.

The BEAST! Jacee and Jack made it with dad while Maddie stayed out with Grama and me.

Getting ready to watch the pig races. Both Jacee and John got picked to help cheer for the pigs -

good times!

Maddie consulting the map while munching on a cracker. She is a crack up!

We also went on two hay-rides. One Grama loved and the other was way too bumpy and she couldn't wait to get off. I think Grama's favorite part was sitting by a huge fire pit.

I must say, we had a wonderful time and will make Cornbelly's our new go-to place in October.

(PS - only six days until Halloween!!)

Jackson is Seven!

2011-10-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my little boy is seven. He is such a wonderful boy, I don't think there is a sweeter boy on the planet - and I'm lucky he belongs to us! Here we are at his birthday breakfast.

This was the year of the weapons. Double sword that comes apart to make two swords, a killer hatchet and a transformers mask from Grama A.

We took him AC for lunch. Here he is with two buddies - Carson and Wesley.

Instead of a cake he wanted cupcakes and thanks to daddy, mom now has a thingy to frost them with. Fun!

Did I mention it was the year of the weapon? We made marshmallow guns for the birthday party and then had a marshmallow war.

I just wanted him to make marshmallow guns, but in his usual fabulous way - John gave them enough parts to make two different kinds of guns. It was great!

Of course we had to have protective eye-gear!

Here they are in the "safe way to have a marshmallow war" seminar.

Let the war begin!

We found very quickly that they wanted to remake and remake their guns in different configurations - something that my girly mind didn't even consider. I guess I should have wised up when John was making the prototype and had to show me 80 million different ways you could make a marshmallow gun.

Even Grama got in on the action - she even did a double marshmallow shot!

Jack blowing out candles.

Jack and Sammy showing off their guns.

Overall, it was a fabulous party. Jack had a ton of fun and just enjoyed the day. Sometimes I look at my little boy and realize he is not so little anymore. I am enjoying the stage he is in right now, but some days I long for those warm cozy days where I would just sit and rock him for most of the day. I love this guy!

Final El Salvador Post

2011-09-28T11:12:00.000-07:00

Finally - the rest of the pics posted. My sisters and I decided this was a once in a life time experience. Everything about it was amazing! Here are my parents and their counselors on either side of them on the front row for the Youth Cultural Celebration. Amazing!

Here we are in VIP seating at the Celebration. We saw three groups of people come and then get ushered out and more important "VIP"s came. Luckily we got to keep our seats!

Here is a fabulous YW from El Salvador. She received her medallion when she was 13. It was pretty great seeing a yw with her medallion in a foreign country. All YW across the world are working on personal progress!

My sister entertaining a young girl with her iPhone. She was pretty good at it!

Pres. Eyring speaking. This was taken without any use of a zoom lens - we were that close!

At the entrance to the temple at the open house. Yep, it's in the middle of the rainy season - hence all the tents.

At the entrance to the temple at the dedication. It was the middle of rainy season - hence all the tents.

At the sign.

At the sign with the temple in the background.

The cornerstone. Yes, our pictures made it into the cornerstone box - long story. Don't ask.

Just hanging out at the temple during the dedication. It was so fun to walk around and talk to people and just feel of the Spirit.

This was taken from my parent's kitchen window. It is the most spectacular view!

After all three sessions of the dedication. We finally got to walk around with my parents. And my dad's stress level had gone down so now he could just enjoy it all!

Presidente and the Directora!

The next morning at 5:30am - leaving for the first training and endowment sessions at the temple.

My dad waving goodbye to us as walked over to the temple. What an amazing experience. We love you mom and dad and are so proud of your willingness to serve. You are wonderful people!

Second Post of Many

2011-09-15T19:23:00.000-07:00

My fabulous mother, this was another sneak attack photo. She is so great!

We ate lunch at the cafeteria on the first floor of their apt building. After the meal they offered us ice cream. They brought out one dish and served it to my father. Hmmm, I think he feels the love. They did eventually bring out more and then some bright red ice cream cones. Very fun.

This is my attempt to look useful during "cooking" time. Yes, when I am with my mother and sisters, I let them take over in the kitchen. Not one of my many talents for sure.

We did a lot of this, sitting and talking. It's so fun to be all grown up and talk about grown up things and then be able to be silly sisters also.

I have never seen my dad work so diligently on a talk. He practiced, he revised, he discussed, he studied. It was wonderful to see.

And if speaking in front of one of the First Presidency wasn't enough, he put on his "dr" hat and took out an ingrown toenail for my sister. She said it didn't hurt that bad but you couldn't tell by the look on her face.

First Post of Many

2011-09-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

So, many of you know my two sisters and I were able to go to El Salvador for the temple dedication. I knew it would be a wonderful trip - a once in a life time. What I didn't count on was all the fun we would have. Three grown women visiting their parents sans children and husbands. Let's just say - it got a bit goofy!

Now, I have done my fair share of world travel - albeit a while ago. Both my sisters currently travel internationally, quite frequently, and we were going to visit our parents. Yet, once we got to the airport in San Salvador - we realized we were woefully unprepared and were actually lucky to make it out alive! But that goes with the pictures a little bit down in the post.

This is all going to be random because I don't have the patience to post all the pictures in the right order - so just go with it.

Here are Jen and I. We were all tucked in bed for the night when a blinding flash of light burned our retinas! Janie had snuck in to take a pic. So that of course woke us up and let the mayhem begin! After we got riled up - we decided to go jump in my parents' bed. They have a beautiful four poster bed with TONS of pillows. Yep - it was like we were little kids again. (See first pic in the post.)

Here we are in at the airport. We got through customs and came to this...an outdoor courtyard with a few authentic food choices and a pizza hut. There were a total of about 12 chairs that were highly prized and you really couldn't get a seat. We were there about 11:30am and my mom wasn't coming until 3pm. Once we were there we realized we didn't have their phone number, address, or a phone that worked internationally...yep three intelligent women were stranded at the airport!
Here is a nice guy who was going to try to call our parents but we only had a skype number for them...didn't work out so well. More waiting. We kept wondering about places to sit and to eat or shop - after all, this was an international airport. Come to find out, if we would have walked about 75 feet down the sidewalk we would have found the indoor waiting area full of shops and restaurants and even air conditioning. We had to laugh - what a great way to start our trip. (Oh - and at customs - we put our destination as the Mormon Temple - the guy thought we were crazy - he just wanted to know which city we were going to...)

Anyway, my parent's did end up coming at 2:30pm and luckily we found each other and we just laughed and laughed all the way to their house. My dad told the Bishop that we were riding with we were a little bit loco - he didn't disagree!

Thanks for all the great memories - Hainey and No-eye! Sure do love you. More to come. Love, Julia!

Back Yard Bash

2011-09-05T06:10:00.000-07:00

Our neighborhood does a great party every August - the Backyard Bash. Movie in the park, vb tournament, games for kids, 5k Run, a BBQ. It's very fun. This year my friend and I got a group of girls together to be the Back Yard Bash Dancers. They danced to Party Rock and it was awesome!

John and his team got 2nd in the Golf Tournament. Check out all his loot! I think the hat would have been enough - he loves it!

Here we are ready for the movie in the park. It was on a giant blow up screen - Rio.

Maddie and Jack with Grama in the afternoon during the kids games.

Maddie and Jada were not part of the dance routine - but they were both made-up like they were. Free spirits, those two.

Here they are practicing for the big performance. Her teacher was so great - here she is during "80s day". She was so fun!

El Salvadoor

2011-08-27T11:25:00.000-07:00

Well...I didn't take my camera on my trip to El Salvador because I figured I would just use my phone camera - which is what I always use now. Well, in Atlanta, John totally freaked me out and told me to just completely shut off my phone because he didn't want to explain how to turn off my data plan. He was worried we would be charged $80million if I had my data plan running in a foreign country. So, for once, I was very obedient and didn't turn on my phone. So, as a result, I have two picture - both in Atlanta.

The above is of Janie trying to steal the Delta Airlines blanket. She thought if she wore it as a scarf they would not notice it was one of their blankets - even if it did have the Delta logo stitched to the corner! She even told me if I didn't rat her out, I might be lucky enough to get a similar red scarf for Christmas!

Here we are trying to sleep on the floor in the Atlanta airport. Our flight from SLC left at 12:50am and arrived in Atlanta at 6am local time (4am our time) and our connecting flight left at 10am local time. Well, we were exhausted, because instead of sleeping on the plan, we chatted all night. We tried to find a piece of comfy floor and arranged our purses and lumpy pillows to try to catch a few zzzzzzzzz...well, we didn't sleep very well.

Every time I looked over at Janie she seemed to be comfy and sleeping peacefully, she said the same about me. After an hour or so we realized neither was comfy or sleeping, so we went to find some hot chocolate since we were FREEZING and wait it out.

Even with adventured like this, we had a fabulous time. More info to come...

Back To School

2011-08-25T15:28:00.001-07:00

Hmmm, I am trying a new app from my phone. The pics turned out weird but oh well.

Maddie eating her After school snack.

Jacee at lunch with some best friends.
Jack's awesome pose before school.

After dad's back to school priesthood blessing.

Yummy treats!
Maddie would not be left out of any pictures. We did get her a new outfit to wear, she put it on for about a minute, declared it itchy, and went to put on her traditional non-matching ensemble.

Our traditional 1st day of school - after school treats.

She looks so grown up - I'm freaking out a little bit.
Maddie insisted on pics with mom and dad. Glad I actually woke up and showered!

Yes, I did go for his first school lunch. I was so glad it was pizza instead of the potato-crusted fish they served today.
Jacee's blessing with dad.

I keep wondering when it is going to be easier for me to send my kids to school. So far I have cried every year. And I miss them so much. They, on the other hand, can't wait to get out the door to the school bus. I should be grateful they love school. I sure love them. At least I still have one more year with Mads.

Off They Go

2011-08-11T19:53:00.000-07:00

I went home to help my mom and dad pack up and drive them to the airport. We worked pretty hard all day. We all took a break on the stairs and didn't seem to get back to work very quickly. It always is a daunting task to get them ready to go, but we do it, and they go...

4am - time to leave for the TF airport.

My mom was very good this time and followed all the rules. One was that you could not take a purse if you were carrying on a laptop. Well, we got there and all the other women had purses with them. My mom had packed hers and they were already whisked away with her luggage. The only thing I had in my car was a "U" bag. Here she is transferring her stuff into her make shift purse. When you are desperate, even a "U" Bag will do.

She told me she carried it with the "U" facing the inside most of the time, except the layover in SLC. She figured it was ok there.

My dad trying to work out VISA problems. It seems there is something wrong everytime they fly out of Twin. Luckily this was easily solved and did not cause too much stress.

My mom waving goodbye once she passed through security.

Finally getting ready to go.

I have missed them so much. We haven't really figured out the phone thing so I've only talked with them once. I can't wait to see them next week. I love and miss them so much!

Bricki Reunion 2011

2011-07-28T16:15:00.000-07:00

My Man

2011-07-22T08:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I just have to shake my head at my luck that I got my man. He is amazing. Here he is by the fire he started with just his knife...that's right folks...no matches at all. For Father's Day, my sister was getting her husband this crazy camping knife and suggested I do the same for my hubby. Well, a better gift was never given. In fact, he had hooked it to his belt to wear to church on Father's Day. Luckily it didn't quite make that appearance.

Since then the knife has been used on many occasions, a few of them to create sparks while sitting in the lounge chair - not smart but who can stop the boyful-glee that is on my husband's face when he is "playing" with his knife.

Right now my husband and children are up in Provo Canyon camping. It all happened very quickly so when I went up for just the fire pit, there were a few essentials missing. I have been teasing my husband that I don't really know who I was camping with because that NEVER happens. He is always prepared not only for our families needs, but for everyone who goes with us as well.

But alas, I know I truly don't have to worry because my children will be safe because they are with my husband and his camping knife.

Love you buckets can't wait to see you tonight.

PS this post brought to you courtesy of Jen.

Too Quick

2011-07-17T15:46:00.000-07:00

It is weird how you wait for something for so long, then it is finally here, and then over just like that. My sister (a.k.a. wonder woman) came out with her family in June. I can't even type her schedule while she was here, my fingers would fall off. Let's just say that she tackles life with gusto with five kids in tow (at one point she was going to take her 20 month old to hike the Y - and I have no doubt she would have done it had not saner heads prevailed!)

Here is just a very small sampling of her trip out west. Picture above - fire pit up AF canyon.

Salon day with the girls - cut, style and new hair accessories.

Trip to Eagle park - Ben in the fairy hole...I have a feeling he won't fit when they come out next year.

And getting ready to drive to Rexburg for the 2nd (or was it 3rd) time in a 20 day period. Wow, sure am lucky she is willing to do all the hard stuff (driving, hauling kids around, being flexible, living out of suitcases, etc, etc) so that the cousins can spend some quality time together. Sure do love ya Jen!

My Working Man

2011-07-16T18:51:00.000-07:00

John recently undertook remodeling my parent's game room into a master suite. There was delay after delay and so the night before my parent's were expecting ALL seven kids in Burley, John was up painting at two in the morning. The top picture is of him the second coat - he "borrowed" one of my mom's shower caps because the first time his hair ended up a nice egg shell white. I am so happy that he has a good worth ethic to try to get the job done even if it requires a two am paint job. Lover you!

Friends and Siblings

2011-07-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

I love it that my kids love each other. There is just something about seeing them all piled up on the couch reading a book together. Here are a few moments caught in time that show some of the fun they have together, or that just touched my heart. Love you monkies!

We are loving the new jet tub at our new house - it makes the bubbles go crazy!

Just a tender moment caught when moving Grama out of Highland Cove - all three holding hands in a train.

It's going to be hard having Jack at school all day. Maddie and Jack would have the best time in the mornings before he had to leave for afternoon kindergarten.

Easter

2011-07-11T16:37:00.000-07:00

Hooray! I have finally figured out an easy way to get to the pictures I take on my phone...so now it will be a picture bonanza! Here is Jacee dressed up as a boy in some of Jack's clothes. Yep, still pretty cute (and not a very manly pose!)

On Easter, we had a neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt. It was AWESOME! I love this neighborhood.

It was pretty cold that day...but still fun. You can see Maddie is without a coat. She is our "hardy stock" child. Love these three monkies.

Maddie is Four!

2011-07-08T07:37:00.000-07:00

I can't believe this little monkey is four. She sure keeps things exciting around our house. When she was three she was banned from chewing gum until she was four - so she got a bubble gum machine (and yes, ate all the gum that day!) I love to just sit and watch her. You really never know what she is going to do next. I also like to watch my husband - because he reacts to her in the exact same way he reacts to me - either laughing in that you-are-so-crazy kind of way, or is so frustrated he can hardly talk. Yep, she's mini-me.

I mean come-on. Look at that face. She is adorable!

Just one of the many get-ups she has on throughout any given day. We have decided she is always dressed up because you never know when the opportunity might present itself to put on a show. She also carries a bag with her "stuffs" in it everywhere she goes. It is quite traumatic if we leave the house without it.

This just makes me smile so I put it in. As many of you know, my husband is pretty good at about everything he does, cooking being no exception. Well, he went to make me a chocolate cake and this is how it turned out...we don't know why and it bothers him a little bit but hey, it's the thought that counts!

Thanks to my Parents

2011-07-02T09:44:00.000-07:00

"The strength of any community lies in the strength of its families. The strength of any nation lies in the strength of its families. Strong family life comes of strong and clear religious understanding of who we are, and why we are here, and of what we may eternally become. Strong family life comes of the perception that each of us is a child of God, born with a divine birthright, and with a great and significant potential. Strong family life comes of parents who love and respect one another, and who love and respect and nurture their children in the ways of the Lord. These are under-girding principles of our teachings as a church. To the degree that we observe these teachings we build strong families whose generations will strengthen the nation."
--Gordon B. Hinckley,

Thanks mom and dad. You are wonderful parents and I am glad I have a great model for my own little family. I love you.

A Quick Peek

2011-07-01T05:21:00.000-07:00

Yep, swimming in the warm-springs pool with the snow-capped mountains in the background. We are pretty spoiled in our little neck of the woods.

Jack has finally embraced the pool. Loves his "swimming lessons" with momma and spends most of his time diving for cars.

We never really know where Jacee is - she loves to explore every inch of the pool. By far our most adventurous swimmer - a fish from the day she was born.

Maddie likes the pool but hangs out on the steps most of the time. She finally has donned the floaty suit and kind of floated for the first time last week. Hoping she will have a breakthrough this summer. We'll see.

Hope you are all having a wonderful summer so far!

Last Day of School!

2011-06-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

Here is my big Kindergarten graduate. I can't believe he will be in school all day next year. Luckily we have the summer to play, play, play!

Jacee wanted a crazy pony tail for the last day and I also let her take the camera to school...some interesting shots.

Jacee with her teacher Ms. Peterson - no relation.

Jackson with his teacher Mrs. Ashworth.

Jacee with the school secretary, Karla Harris. We taught her daughter in ballroom years ago so we knew her quite well...we also were late quite a bit so Jacee go to know her quite well!

I have a couple of "super moms" in the neighborhood, I can only keep up with about half of their ideas. This one I thought I could handle - making a candy bar poster for the kids on the last day of school. Pretty fun and easy and of course the kids LOVED it! Thanks Camie...

Love school but Love when it's out...now if the weather would just cooperate.

Fun to have Brothers

2011-05-18T20:50:00.000-07:00

I have spent the past two weeks sorting through boxes and boxes of my mother's pictures. If you know my mother, you know what a task this was. I thought I would be efficient and get the task done fairly quickly, but what I didn't count on was the walk down memory lane.

One thing I know for sure -I sure love my family and I'm so grateful for the childhood and life I have had because of them.

Now, these pictures were actually sent from my big brother. We are only 16 months apart. We have been through some pretty good times together. I have made his life rough, but he seems to always stick by me and support me - even when I had big hair! I am lucky.

As I watch my children play, I can't help but be grateful that they love to be together and have fun playing together. I hope they stay close and are able to be friends when they have families of their own -that is the best gift.

I'm sure being only 16 months apart - my brother didn't get to be the baby for very long. I might have stolen some of his thunder. I think he did pay me back (dent on my forehead).

And talk about an amazing mom. Now...we are children #4 and #5 of seven - so it's not like it was just the two of us for her to look after. She is amazing and I'm grateful for all the stuff she was willing to do for us - especially stuff like pudding art!

You really can't blame him - I was a pain - and probably still am! Love you Dave and thanks for the fun pics!

New Temple President

2011-05-02T09:12:00.000-07:00

Walter R. and Eileen Petersen

Walter Ray Petersen, 77, Burley 3rd Ward, Burley Idaho Stake, called as president of the new San Salvador El Salvador Temple. President Petersen's wife, Eileen Marie Albertson Petersen, will serve as temple matron. Currently serving as a sealer in the Twin Falls Idaho Temple, he previously served as president of the Mexico Mérida Mission, stake president, patriarch, bishop, temple ordinance worker and Central America Area medical advisor senior missionary couple. A retired family physician and surgeon, he was born in Wendell, Idaho, to Raymond Orlinzo and Jane Maria Prescott Petersen.

Sister Petersen currently serves as an institute teacher and temple ordinance worker. She previously served with her husband as he presided over the Mexico Mérida Mission and as a senior couple missionary. She has also served as a ward Young Women president, ward Primary president, and gospel doctrine teacher. She was born in Twin Falls, Idaho, to Arnold George and Verna Beth Huffaker Albertson.

This new temple will be dedicated August 21, 2011. The temple president and temple matron are to be in San Salvador one month before the dedication. The calling is for three years.

I am trying to be positive. I just will miss them so much. I love you mom and dad.

St. George Temple

2011-04-12T16:52:00.000-07:00

While in St. George, we went to see the temple. It was beautiful. We couldn't get over how white it was. What a great day.

The kids touching the temple. Jack looks like he is under arrest.

Be the beehive at the bottom of the stairs.

Our forever family - sure love these guys!

Dance Dance Revolution!

2011-04-11T18:34:00.000-07:00

One of the funnest parts about dancing is the hair and makeup. It's kind of crazy to see what the studio wants each year. This year we have blue and pink eyeshadow and for the hair we have the Jo-Hawk. We had to practice before her first comp and it came out pretty well. Maddie of course, had to be included.

Close up of that great blue eyeshadow.

My two cuties - sure is fun to play with hair and makeup with my girls.

Jack's MRI

2011-03-24T16:27:00.000-07:00

Jack was born with hearing loss in his right ear, we have always known this, but for the past year I felt that we didn't know all there was to know about his hearing loss. I had noticed he was starting to compensate and turn his left ear towards whomever is speaking.

I took him to the ENT that has worked with Jack since he was 1 month old. After doing a series of audiology tests, it was determined he has very little hearing in his right ear at all and the dr. wanted him to have an MRI to see "if there was something in the brain that was causing the hearing loss." (His ear inside is perfect - he has all the right parts and they are all fine.)

In the above picture, Jack had to be sedated. I hate it, they are so suddenly still and it doesn't look natural at all - in other words he looked dead. He did much better with the sedation than Jacee however, he did not fight it at all and just slowly closed his eyes and went under, no fuss. He did, however, scream bloody murder when he got his IV in, that was not fun.

Here he is trying to wake up. When I pulled out the camera he gave his best effort at a smile...he was SO tired. When the dr. called later that day with the MRI results, the first thing he said was, well - there isn't a brain tumor. WHAT? This is what we were looking for? A tumor is what he meant when he said, "Let's see if there is something in the brain causing the hearing loss..." I'm actually so glad I didn't know this before hand because I would have been a mess waiting for the results. As it turns out, the hearing part of his brain is a little underdeveloped. So, he will never have hearing in his right ear, but his left ear compensates and he will live a normal life. The biggest problem will be that he will not know exactly which direction a sound is coming from. Oh - and his girlfriends won't be able to whisper sweet nothings in his ear.

Overall, we are grateful for the news. As you can see, he is a happy, healthy, very fun boy. We are so thankful he is in our family and love him with all our heart. Love you big guy!

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T10:45:00.000-07:00

The Hospital Stay

2011-03-03T11:49:00.000-08:00

I have just avoided blogging this, but here I am with a slow day and so here goes.

As mentioned in the previous post, Jacee knelt on a toothpick. We went the week with the knee swelling and not looking much better so I called my brother Brian on President's Day to ask him about it. After describing it and answering a few questions about it, he was quiet and said, "It's either nothing or something pretty bad, I need to see it." We agreed to meet in Park City. He didn't have to look at it very long before he said, "I need to stick a big needle in it." Yep, Jacee was officially freaked out! (As was I...)

We discussed the options of going to Primary Children's or to his office in Evanston, WY. The problem with going to Evanston was that he was pretty sure she would be admitted to the hospital with possible surgery and John and our family were in Utah. We decided on Primary's so John could come sooner and someone could help with the kids.

While driving from Park City to SLC, I talked with my brother David who graciously agreed to come get Jack and Maddie and keep them for the day (I think this was around 1:30pm and they had them until about 9:30pm - thanks David and Julie!)

On the drive Jacee and I took turns crying. I would start so she would start. We would get composed and then she would start so i would start...not a fun drive.

Brian was following us to Utah and had called the hospital to tell them we were coming. It was so reassuring to have him there and to help us. I made sure each dr. that came in knew "we had brought our own surgeon!" He stayed with the us until the last test results came in after 7:30pm that night. Thanks Brian for being with us and thank Michelle for letting us have your husband that day.

Well, the initial reaction from all the doctors was that she would most likely need surgery. Her knee was swollen in such a way that it indicated that the joint had gotten infected and they would probably need to go in to clean it out.

One thing was weird, she was not in much pain. The doctors would poke and prod and twist her knee and she just sat there. They said with this kind of infection that she should be in great pain. They finally settled on aspirating her knee (the big needle) and running some tests.

Here is her I.V. I think this was the worst part for her. It hurt and she was sure she wanted it in her arm not her hand, but the tech talked her into the hand. And while doing this they had to get some blood for tests and that wasn't super fun. Luckily the tech won her over when he brought her a warm fuzzy blanket and a big stuffed dog - he was ok in her book after that.

When they decided they had to aspirate her knee, they put her under. There was quite a few syringes of medicine they put in her I.V. At the time I knew what they were because I asked Brian about each of them and he assured me that is what he would use if he were doing it. (I was glad that even though he couldn't do the procedure, he was there telling me that was they were doing was the right thing, and explaining everything to me.)

This was my least favorite part...her going under. They told her her nose would itch and as she was getting sleeping, she kept trying to rub her nose. Then she tried to curl up in the fetal position and then she was OUT. It happened so fast and her eyes were partly open and her mouth was open. She was so still, it was creepy. I tried to shut her eyelids but they wouldn't close. I just held her hand and did not watch when the big needle was brought out.

Here's the needle going in. I was glad to hear my brother giving a few words of encouragement to the ortho resident but not so encouraged when they pulled it out and I heard him say, "Yep, it's cloudy." All the early test results came back looking like we would be going into surgery. John's parents also came for a while and sat with us in the ER. David brought some oil and Brian, John, and Brent gave Jacee a blessing. I also found out my parents talked to some good friends and asked them to pray for Jacee and my mom put her name in the temple. Many of our neighborhood friends helped out and made sure the sheets got into the dryer and prayed for her as well. It's good to have supportive friends and family.

We waited and waited for all the results, and when they all came back, it was determined she would just stay in the hospital that night with some I.V. antibiotics and see how things went the next day. Brian got to go home, John went to pick up Jack and Maddie and went home and Jacee and I slept in the hospital that night. I am convince our friends and family prayed the worst of the infection away so she wouldn't have to have surgery.

We only had the clothes on our back, so before John went home he ran and got us some treats, books, magazines, and some fake fingernails for Jacee. The hospital provided Jammies for Jacee and a pair of sweats for me along with tooth brushes and toothpaste. We started out in a private room but had to move to a shared room about midnight. Jacee was out - they just moved her bed into the other room and banged into a door and a wall and she didn't stir at all. The other family came in about 12:30am with a sick toddler (and watched t.v. until around 2:30am).

They pushed the i.v. antibiotics all night. The attending surgeon came in the next day and told us Jacee she was the conundrum of the dept because they couldn't figure out why she wasn't in pain. The were waiting on results of one more test that finally came at noon - and then they released her. They gave me antibiotics in pill form (which I told them she couldn't swallow and they suggested I open the pills and mix them with soft foods...) and said to have a follow up in a week. My parents came to the hospital right when we were being released. They brought a bag full of fun stuff and it was good to see them.

It ended up being such a blessing my parents came. John was in charge of the Blue and Gold Banquet that night and I also had New Beginnings that night. Once we got home, the frantic preparations began, with my parents being key in running MANY errands for us. We pulled off both events with MUCH help from many people.

In the mean time - I was trying to force Jacee to take her anti-biotics. She was a bit warm and I was worried this was a bad sign. I tried the pills in ice cream and chocolate milk. She just threw them up and cried. I finally had to leave her with my parents and they tried to mix it with mac and cheese. Finally, both my brother Steve and my dad tried it and said it was so horrible they wouldn't even take it! They Brian and got a liquid prescription that seems to be doing the trick.

Boy, when they say it takes a village to raise a child - they were talking about my children. Thanks to everyone for pitching in and helping us. Jacee is doing so much better. She has gone back to school and dance class and seems to be doing fine. Her knee is still a little swollen but she is no longer walking with a limp. We are so grateful she is doing better.

We sure love this little gal.

Yep, I'm 40!

2011-02-24T10:25:00.000-08:00

On my birthday, there was a knock at the door - and when I went to answer it there was no one there but an arrow (made out of dr. pepper cans) on my doorstep. It was pointing to...

The number 40 made with dr. pepper cans on my drive way - who could have asked for more - 40 cans of dp when I turn 40 - love it!

Thanks Steve and Kimble - one of the best birthday presents ever!

I did have a great birthday. It started the night before with a bowling party with some friends. Then off to the Survivor premier that had the BEST tribal council ever - I think just for my birthday. The next morning we had donuts from Lehi Bakery and then lunch with some girl friends at Kneaders. At lunch, they gave me a present of a girls night out - skiing and then an overnighter in Park City -complete with hot tub! Can't wait!

I also got a 2 liter of dp from my friend and gift certificate for a fill on my nails! Perfect timing as they had grown out so far I was almost going to start prying them off! A yummy edible bouquet was delivered from the blueberries that was pretty and delicious. My YW made a flag and hung it at my house that had a HUGE 40 on it - so no keeping my age a secret in our neighborhood! Got a lot of phone calls, texts, and fb bday wishes - I sure felt loved.

John did have to work that night (hence the bowling party the night before) but I took the kids swimming so they all went to bed early and I had some quiet time.

All in all a GREAT birthday.
Thanks for all the birthday wishes. Have to say my husband has gotten a lot of mileage out of telling people I'm 40 and he's still 36. What can I can - he obviously married "up" in more ways than one! Love you honey!

Yikes!

2011-02-18T08:18:00.000-08:00

So, I can hardly look at the above pictures. I know it's not gory and bloody, but it's the thought that an entire toothpick is jammed into my little girl's knee...

On Valentine's Day I got a call from the school saying Jacee was sick - she had complained of a sore throat on Sunday so I wasn't entirely surprised. I got to the school and she came out of the nurses room, limping...what? Why would a sore throat make her limp? And she was as white as a sheet. After a few steps, I picked her up and carried her because she could hardly walk. As soon as we got outside she started crying and told me she had a toothpick stuck in her knee...what? I set her in the car and sure enough, there was a little thing poking out through her pants. I tried to pull it out but it was stuck fast.

She said it was time to start cleaning up for her Valentine's Day Party and she dropped to the ground under her desk to pick up trash and landed right on the toothpick. She tried to pull it out but couldn't. She just went up to her teacher and said she was sick - she was pure white (now we know she was in shock) so the teacher sent her to the office. She said she tried to sit so no one would notice the toothpick sticking out of her pants - she didn't want anyone to touch it.

Anyway...

We raced to the Dr. office and he pushed around a little bit and said he was not going to try to pull it out because it was in so deep and could be in a joint so off we went to the ER...and out came the pliers. The ER dr. gave Jacee the option of deadening it or just going for it - she just went for it! The dr. told John to distract her and not let her look and then he just yanked it out with pliers. We got an X-ray but it's hard to detect any wood on X-rays so we are just suppose to watch it for infection.

Her knee is very puffy and swollen but no redness. Today (Friday) is her first day back at school. (In addition to not being able to walk very well, she has thrown up everyday.) She has been a trooper. She was not very brave at the Dr. office but as soon as it was decided she needed to go to the ER she got all brave and tough about it. Of course we went to Cafe Rio afterwards to celebrate her bravery.

I'm still a little nervous about all the swelling - she is on anti-biotics and we went for a follow-up appt yesterday and the Dr. didn't seem concerned. Glad she went to school today, we'll see how long she lasts. Love you Jacee!

Valentine's Day

2011-02-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

Here are our sweeties with their Valentine treasures - a make up kit for Maddie, Star Wars Legos for Jack, and a tub of air dry clay for Jacee. They also got a giant Hershey's kiss from Grama and Grampa Mission...

Notice the three differences in each of their Hershey's Kisses - Maddie - open and already bite marks all over it, Jack - out of the wrapper, Jacee - still in the box.

We had quite an eventful Valentine's day this year...I'll post more about it when we get the pictures onto the computer. Let's just say this is about all the celebrating we did - and that was at breakfast.

Parent Prom

2011-02-17T19:52:00.001-08:00

One of my Laurels decided to put on a parent prom for one of her PP Projects. Our ward got really into it. For some reason, we all decided our husbands had to actually ask us. So, one day I came home from some errands and found this in the kitchen...

How fun is that? When John took that picture - he took it of himself on his camera phone while on top of a roof, measuring a chimney during a wind storm - hence the lack of a smile. But, I got asked! We went to eat at Texas Roadhouse with 25 other people and then went and danced the night away - it was fabulous! Thanks Katie for putting on such a fun dance.

While Mom's Away...

2011-02-08T09:25:00.000-08:00

Last Friday I had a YW overnighter at a cabin in Heber. It happened to be the same night as the school's free Classic Skating night. Jacee and Jackson had been looking forward to this night for some time. I tried to prep them that they probably wouldn't get to go because daddy had to drive to Logan early in the morning, build a house all day, and then drive all the way home again and he would probably be too tired. Well...being the great dad he is, John took them to Classic Skating. All three kids by himself after a looooong day at work.

On the way into the rink, Maddie was running and tripped in the parking lot. She had her hands in the pockets of her coat so the only thing she had to catch herself was - her face!

John said she sat on his lap for a while but then seemed to recover and spent the rest of the evening on the bounce houses. She is none the worse for wear and tells me periodically, "My face feels better mom."

So - overall it was a successful outing with dad and the kids. I'm feeling pretty lucky to have such a great family. Lover you honey.

The Blahs

2011-02-07T16:02:00.000-08:00

Things have been pretty blah around here lately. It seems I'm not too excited about much. I wonder what's wrong with me and then remember we are in the winter blahs with no end in sight. I start to get down mid-February and it gets worse in March and I start to feel better in April. One of my counselors told our new camp director that the real Julie will show herself again in the Spring - it really gets bad.

Well, I was having an extra bad day (week) last Thursday for a myriad of reasons. Later that night there was a knock at the door and to much joy and happiness, I found this beautiful valentine hanging on it.

I was suppose to channel my inner Martha that day with friends but cancelled because of the blahs...they made me one anyway and brought it over. (I know, you are all thinking it's a good thing I didn't show because it would not have turned out like this if I would have made it!)

Thanks Cammie and Jodi for helping my bad day. Another reason I love living in this neighborhood - great friends.

Jacee's Baptism Slide Show

2011-01-22T07:28:00.000-08:00

Jacee's Photo Shoots

2011-01-19T14:09:00.000-08:00

Jacee was able to have two photo shoots for her baptism (pure heaven for her!)

The outdoor photos were taken by one of my YW - Kelti. It was very cold but both the photographer and model were patient and the results were fabulous! Thanks Kelti - you are awesome!

The indoor photos were taken by one of my best friends - Jessica. She has taken many pictures of my children over the years and I am always amazed how she captures their personalities. I appreciate your time and we LOVE the pics - you're the best Jessica.

Yep - the Peterson girls go-to pose...even in a baptism dress!

Wow - in Jacee's own words, "I can't believe I am actually baptized!"

Jacee's Baptism

2011-01-17T08:25:00.000-08:00

Jacee had a great baptism day Saturday. She has been very excited for a long time. After she was baptized and we were walking back to the chapel she said, "I can't believe I'm actually baptized!"

Her best friend Chloe was able to come. These girls are two peas in a pod!

She was lucky to have both sets of Grandparents there. She sure loves them.

Here is John's side.

Here is my side. I'm thankful that we both have family close and that we get so much support from them. We are lucky.

Christmas Morning

2011-01-13T19:43:00.000-08:00

We had a very fun Christmas. John loves this holiday and he does everything he can to make it memorable - thanks for all your hardwork John - I love you.

Jack loves all things legos and he got plenty of them this Christmas.

Jacee is starting to transition from toys to clothes and older things for Christmas...I'm not ready for this!

Maddie with her new purse/shoes/headband/outfit/doll.

BonJovi tickets baby!

Christmas Eve Tradition - it's official

2011-01-12T14:22:00.000-08:00

We have now had our Christmas Eve Tradition of making "gingerbread" houses for three years in a row - so it's official - it's a tradition!

Grampa Brent was able to make one with us this year. Luckily our kids care more about the making part because the eating part was out this year - the candy was a year old! Still fun and oh so cute.

There Were Five in the Bed...

2011-01-11T09:12:00.000-08:00

Here is a traditions we have kept that I had growing up...before we go downstairs we all must get in the mom and dad bed. This picture looks like we are all tired but it was at 8am! Our kids have yet to wake up early for Christmas...in fact we have to wake them up most of the time. I know! Weird right?

Christmas Picture

2011-01-05T13:03:00.000-08:00

Here is our annual picture in front of the Christmas tree. I must say - Love my kids!

Reindeer

2011-01-04T12:31:00.000-08:00

We went to Thanksgiving Point this year to see the Light Extravaganza and to feed the reindeer.

Even though the children called them, held out straw and food pellets - the reindeer would not come to them.

No worries because we got to go to the bakery afterwards for ice cream and hot chocolate floats.

Luckily it was very warm inside and the ice cream tasted yummy.

Jack showing off his missing tooth.

Even now, when I look at the following picture, I burst out laughing. It is the best timing I have ever had in my life. Right when I snapped this, both Jacee and Maddie started to sneeze. Priceless!

We had a great night and is now on our list of new Christmas Traditions - we'll see if we make it two years in a row!

Trim the Tree

2010-12-29T19:02:00.001-08:00

This is just going to be an overload of pictures of the night we trimmed our tree. It is so fun that the kids are old enough to remember our ornaments and get excited when taking them out. Wow - we are the parents creating the traditions for our children. Will our children think it just happened or will they realize we do it consciously to help create lasting memories for them. As a child I thought it all just happened - now I know how hard my parents worked to make a wonderful life for us. Thanks mom and dad.

Mr. and Mrs. Clause - as Jack put it.

I want to kiss you Mrs. Clause!

Stockings go on feet of course!

Luckily we have just enough for every one to have a pair.

And a tree skirt...

...perfect for twirling.

Yep, this one too.

Our special ornament. It is the last one we put on right in the front and center of our tree - it was Jack's turn this year.

Maddie has broken more ornaments than the other two combined - I think we've talked about it so much she would only put on ornaments that wouldn't break - which isn't many on our tree.

Jack was quite particular when placing his ornaments.

Jacee was in charge of it all!

I love this one. He is such a sweetie.

Now that the bustle of the holiday season is over - I can sit down, go through some pictures and blog - more to come!

A Cousin Christmas

2010-12-09T15:41:00.000-08:00

WARNING: If your name is Jennifer Brewer - STOP reading now!

Boy, I wish our family liked each other. If they did, we might get together the first week of December for our annual Cousin Christmas Party.

If we liked to be together, we might compare how big the kids are getting - even outgrowing their moms.

If we liked each other, there might be some smiling.

If we liked each other, we might enjoy being with three generations under the same roof.

If we liked each other, we might enjoy sharing our sugar cookie masterpieces.

If we liked each other, we might let the little ones use almost ALL the sprinkles on one cookie.

If we like each other there might be kissing and frivolity in the kitchen.

If we liked each other, we might smile instead of look tired and grumpy (just showing you it wasn't all fun and games Jen).

If we liked each other we might like to listen to stories about how Grama stole Ricey in the fourth grade when his girlfriend was out of town.

If we liked each other, we might not care who looks taller in all the pictures.

If we liked each other, there might be some hand holding in front of the Christmas Tree.

If we liked each other, we might be happy whenever anyone gets a 12 during the Christmas Tree Game.

If we liked each other, we might like to get close for pictures.

If we liked each other, we might not eat our cousin's m&m's.

If we liked each other, we wouldn't have spent so much time in the garage trying to bust open the holiday burrito/submarine (can you guess this is what Uncle Steve was in charge of - notice the array of weapons to choose from behind Jack.)

If we liked each other, we might take a break from frosting to smile for yet another picture!

And if we liked each other we wouldn't compare what hot chocolate mix-ins were the best (hmmm, no pic).

Yep Jen, we just want to assure you that we don't like to be together and party was no fun at all!

2010-12-08T15:26:00.000-08:00

So, I finally decided to do something with my kids that was a little school-esque. We made a Thankful tree this November. I told them they had to put one leaf on everyday of something they were thankful for, they did a little bit more than that! It was nice to have this daily visual reminder that we are surrounded by blessings and all we have to do is look for them. Maddie mostly just drew circles or mo-mucks on hers. I plan to save the leaves and we can look back at each year's blessings. It was a fun November activity. (I have a computer file full of December ideas - haven't done any of them yet!)

Thanksgiving

2010-12-06T12:32:00.000-08:00

As many of you know I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Thanksgiving. Mostly because we all cram into one room and sit and enjoy each other. This is what is usually happening the majority of the time, just hanging out being together.

I think grampa prefers it when there is snow on the ground by Thanksgiving - that way he can get out the snowmobile and take the kids on rides. They love going on the bump and over the canal.

The talent show is always a highlight. Jacee and Jasmin doing an original dance to Justin Beiber's Baby. This year it seemed to be the Jacee/Jasmine/Nia/Tayler show. The best was when they put on a skit about how grama and grama met. According to them grama was quite forward and making quite the moves on grampa!

Nia on clarinet while Jacee and Jasmine sang.

Jack also did an original performance to Justin Beiber's Baby. He had some sweet moves!

I think he was channeling his father's days as a break dancer.

Just more general silliness.

We always keep some ramen noodles handy for when my picky children won't eat anything.

Maddie and Kiera. She finally warmed up to some of the older cousins.

SiSi and Jada.

Jacee and Jasmin sporting some ill-gotten loot from Grama's jewelry box. I hope she can find all her jewelry that was sported by her granddaughters during the weekend.

More of the aforementioned jewelry.

Some of the more hearty stock of the family.

Love just being together and strengthening family bonds. I will mention that things were a bit off. Two families couldn't make it and it just seemed weird all weekend. Everyone got a room at the house, there was leftover turkey on Friday (something unheard of in these parts) and the treats seemed to never run out. We sure missed the Steadmans and Ackermans!

We did get snowed in and didn't leave Idaho until Monday afternoon. After trying to figure out what to do, we all just sat back, played some games and enjoyed each other for one more night.

Sure do love our family!

Losing It!

2010-12-01T11:14:00.000-08:00

Jack has been losing teeth like crazy. He lost two the same week so they both went under his pillow at the same time. He is in hog heaven thinking he's the richest kid ever! The money is burning a hole in his pocket - he can't wait to get to the store.

I know this is quite the picture - but when I asked what he was doing - he said he was being a pirate - arrrgh!

This is a pic of the hole on top before his tooth started coming in at light speed - and you can see the one on the bottom is pretty loose. He's really not a fan of loose teeth - he babies them. He doesn't really brush around the loose tooth and he will NOT wiggle it with his tongue. But - they finally practically fall out when they are ready - no pulling required!

I'm in Denial

2010-11-18T19:59:00.000-08:00

Wow - I have been putting off this post. I can't believe my baby has started pre-school. I join the neighbor hood preschool and this year we didn't start until October, which was actually fine with me. I almost didn't put her in it. If we don't have another baby - this is it. My youngest starting school. It makes me a little sad. It seems with Jacee I was gung-ho to put her in everything but now that I know how fast the time flies, I just enjoy Maddie being at home. There's time enough for all the activities in the future.

She wanted a picture by both the witch and the scarecrow. The scarecrow was outside and she could barely open her eyes for the pic. I tried to shade her but you can see it didn't work so well.

I have discovered she's going to be that child that is wonderful for everyone else, but a stinker for me when I'm the teacher. Yep, she has been sent to her room for a time-out every time I have taught so far. Good times!

Love you Maddie, try not to grow up too fast. Mommy loves you.

Let the Family Time Begin!

2010-11-17T18:53:00.000-08:00

It's funny. We live close to three of my brothers and four of John's sisters - but sometimes, weeks and weeks go by without us seeing them. Last weekend, we finally got to spend some quality time with John's side.

My niece, Cassie, was Marian the Librarian in her school's production of The Music Man. Everyone who lived in Utah, plus Grama and Grampa, plus Camille and Linsee from Elko went to see the play. John had to work and I had Maddie and Jack so we didn't go - but luckily Jacee did. She loved every second of it! (Except the kissing her cousin was doing on stage!) Lori hosted everyone before the show and then kept all the little girls for a sleep over. The next day we all met up for some lunch and eventful shopping. We are lucky Lori was with us because she chaperoned all the little kids for free ice cream at Coney's while the rest of the adults sat at Paradise Cafe - thank Lori!

This little get together just made me excited to get on with the holidays! It seems once Thanksgiving hits we get together with family a ton. I can't wait!

To all those heading to Burley - watch out because we are leaving bright and early Wed morning...the race is on!

Leaves, Leaves Everywhere!

2010-11-13T19:36:00.000-08:00

Here is my fabulous daughter who has been posing for pictures her entire life. Even as a baby she would pose. Right now she is into the "pensive" phase. (Looks like she needs a new pair of leggins.)

Anyway...we had a great weekend last week. My nephew was baptized so we got to hang out with family. We always wait for the leaves to fall from the giant trees by the pool. We had been watching them for days - and they finally fell! We took a couple of rakes and had a grand time. Jacob and Jacee were more interested in climbing the trees but Abby, Isaac, Jack and Maddie loved raking up the leaves and then jumping in them. It was nice and warm so we didn't even need jackets. All in all, a perfect Fall day!

Yep - posing mid-jump!

Maddie getting in on her jump. There were smiles as I took it - 2 seconds later there was one mad face and one delighted face. Maddie seems to thrive on pushing people's buttons.

Abby had a great jump and slide. (Notice Maddie in the background trying to get in on it again.)

This one might be favorite pic of the day. Right now, John has to use my camera everyday to take pics of houses - so I am stuck with the camera on my phone. It's not bad except the shutter speed is horrible. It can take anywhere from 1-5 seconds, so getting an action shot is tricky. He's the only one I actually got in mid-air. Love it!

Did I ever mention I have a nephew that's part monkey? And this is not the highest he climbed that day.

I always love the pics with just the face showing. What's a day of playing in the leaves without getting buried?

Maddie's shot.

For some reason Jackson always looks kinda like a zombie when I take this pic - he's done it for years.

Cute Abby.

I would like to say Maddie is going for the pensive look like Jacee - but no - she is just mad because I wouldn't let her crawl over the fence to play with the leaves that were in the street.

I love this "before" shot.

And the "after".

Halloween 2010

2010-11-04T20:24:00.000-07:00

Here we are - all ready to go Trick-or-Treating. I finally gave in and let Maddie wear whatever she wanted (she has on a Vampire costume, adult witch wig, and kid witch hat). She did have a darling Minnie Mouse costume, which she wore the the Fall Festival - but what is the fun of wearing it twice? Anyway - here is what she came up with - isn't she cute???

Since Jack has spent some time with his cousin Jake - he has learned all about policemen, firemen, and S.W.A.T guys. So - here is my S.W.A.T. guy. He made it for about an hour of Trick-or-Treating and then was content to sit by mom while I made scones, pick through his candy, and just hang out.

This is the first year Jacee has changed her mind on costumes. Usually she knows what she wants to be in early September, but this year we bought one costume (movie star) and ended up returning it for the Go-Go Girl. She did have cute white "fake" boots -but didn't like them so went with the warm brown ones. Since it was raining I was ok with that.

We had a great time. John and I have talked about making scones for our Trick-or Treaters since we have been married and have never done it - we went for it this year and it was great. We took turns manning the fryer and the other went out with the kids. There was a light rain but nothing that stopped the fun. Steve, Nat and Jena came over to hang out and with it a second wind for Jacee - who took Kimble and Carter to the houses with the best loot (Grahams - FULL size candy bars and Miners - play dough). Good times!

I love Halloween - it marks the start to all the holiday madness - now on to Thanksgiving!

My Very Favorites

2010-10-26T11:52:00.000-07:00

Here are my very favorite photos. My heart bursts with love when I look at these kids. How did I get so lucky?

My Inner Self

2010-10-21T20:50:00.000-07:00

So...after a little persuasion (yeah - I'm sure you all know how much persuading I need to throw some attention on me!) I am posting the pics that I'm sure will one day make Emily famous. Click here to see her photography blog - she is amazing! Love you Emily!

Family Photos

2010-10-18T18:39:00.000-07:00

We finally got some great family photos this year. Thanks to our miracle worker, Emily Garrard, who did this shoot on a holiday because we really only had one day to drive to Burley and back when Mikayla was in town. Wahoo! I love them! Thanks Emily - you are spectacular!

Jacee had her own poses already picked out. She loves the camera!

I can't believe how many cute shots there are of Maddie - she was not being very cooperative but Emily was patient and it paid off.

Jack, what else is there to say...

Ours even turned out. Isn't my hubby handsome!

And grown up Mikayla. I can't believe she is 14. She was 3 1/2 when John and I got married. So glad she is able to come visit us.

I'll post more - because I love them.

Addendum for the Deck Post

2010-10-14T08:11:00.001-07:00

So...it is true. John did not build the deck all by himself. He had a LOT of help from our trusted friend Nate. Even though it is hard to believe that he could help when a girl can beat him at boxing. He will try to tell you otherwise - but I have picture proof of the outcome of the very first ever "Wanna Box" Match. Love you Nate!

The Deck

2010-10-04T19:24:00.000-07:00

John was able to build one awesome deck this summer.

I couldn't even begin to get pictures to do it justice.

The awesome stairs.

It was in three sections and had three different doors into the house. It turned out beautiful and I'm proud of him for working so hard - oh and thanks Steve for throwing some work our way.

So - all I have to say is, "What a man, what a man, what a man, what a man, what a mighty fine man - say it again yeah." (Throw back to my Salt-n-Peppa days.) And he's all mine!

My Mom's Stuff

2010-10-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

My mom came to visit last weekend and asked me if I happen to have any of her fall decorations. I replied, "No, I think I left them all in Burley." Well, we started to unpack our fall boxes and I noticed I might have kept a few of my mother's things. I started to put all of her decorations on the table. When all was said and done - the table was overloaded with my mom's decorations.

No mom, I don't have any at all!

Love you!

Let the Holiday Season Begin!

2010-09-28T10:38:00.000-07:00

I use to be a firm believer in not decorating for Halloween until the first weekend of October. Well, I must admit I have succumbed to the commercial peer pressure that has been heaped upon me since the last week of August. My new tradition is that we will decorate the last Monday of September. We'll see how it goes in coming years.

My traditional "decorating hat".

John's main duty - putting up Harry the Spider and his web. We all love it and I'm so glad he's willing to do it year after year after year.

Maddie's favorite is getting out the costume box.

She is posed this way so I could capture the wings on film.

The witch hair is always a big hit. Jacee now is thinking about being a witch this year, or Cleopatra, or a bat fairy, or Galinda the Good Witch...the list goes on and on.

This is what I am hoping (trying to manipulate) Maddie into wearing this year. This is what Jacee wore when she was this age and I think it's so cute. Maddie has said she would be a witch if she gets to wear the long black witch wig. We'll see....

Two Wheeler

2010-09-24T10:39:00.000-07:00

Maddie - always game for a picture.

I have been asking John, forever, to take off Jack's training wheels. Well, right before school started - the kids came running in shouting that Jack was riding a two-wheeler. The little neighbor girls had teeny tiny bikes without training wheels - and there was Jack on one of them zooming around the street. Well, that's all it took - John went to work and that afternoon Jack was riding his own two-wheeler - without any coaching from us.

He has never liked to ride this bike - but now that he has freedom - he loves it and boy is he FAST! He's a little crazy and it worries me and sometimes I think I might want the training wheels back on for no other reason than to slow him down.

But he's happy and he loves it and as he says, "Now I really am a big boy!"

The "Cabin"

2010-09-20T16:54:00.000-07:00

Jackson and Maddie decided to make a Cabin out of the couch cushions. They soon discovered that it was only big enough for one of them to play in at a time-so we had to build the deluxe cabin...

...so they could both fit in it comfortably...

and have it complete with a home theater and chocolate milk....

they could even fit suitcases, sleeping bags, and Maddie's baby doll. They were very happy and comfy in their cabin.

Jack's 1st Lost Tooth

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

Jack has had a wiggly tooth for a while so on Thursday night - John yanked it out!

He didn't cry but he was none too thrilled. Jack, like his mom, is not a fan of blood - especially his own. It's to the point that I might need to buy stock in a band aid company because anytime he finds a speck of blood anywhere on his body - out comes the band aid box! I think he would have put one on his gum if he could have figured out how.

Here he is checking it out. The Tooth Fairy brought him two dollars and he was pretty excited about that - now he wants to go buy a toy! I guess this officially makes him a big boy.