Playing catch up

Okay, so I am a LITTLE behind on some of the things that happened over the last few weeks. So, this BLOG is going to have a few pictures in it with brief explanations of the event. I missed a few, so here we go:

June 5, 2008

Here are a couple of Tevan's firsts: milk and cheese. He wasn't sure about the milk, but he LOVED the cheese.

Daeson is my little helper. He loves to water the flowers with his duck watering can. He is so proud of it.

Mother's Day, May 11, 2008. This was supposed to be a great family shot...Tevan looks happy. :) Actually, I think it turned out okay.

Daeson learned how to cross his eyes today. I think it is hillarious!!

May 25, 2008
This is my super-cute niece, Brooke. Jesse and Carlie's daughter. She and Daeson LOVE to play...they just don't get to very often. I think we probably see them about 6-8 times a year. The sad thing is that they just live 45 minutes from us...I KNOW!!!!

Happy #30 Justin!!! YOU ARE SOOOO OLD! This is my brother. I really don't think that 30 is old...I'm rapidly approaching it myself!!!

Daeson got two cakes this year...this is his actual Birthday day cake. I cheated and bought it from WinCo. But, it was DELICIOUS and he was thrilled it was Spiderman!!

May 28, 2008




May 29, 2008

We bought Daeson a gumball machine for his birthday. He is so excited when Troy has change in his pocket so he can have a "DUMBALL".

May 31, 2008

Kayla and girls, Richard, Peggy, the boys and I, Heidi and Kaden and a friend went to the Tautphus Park Zoo. We had a good time and the kids LOVED it. This is my mother-in-law, Peggy, my nieces, Adalyn and Mieley, and Daeson by the monkeys.




Daeson and Tevan with the lion.

Daeson and Tevan had fun in the giant swing. There is a new park by the zoo. I just found out about it. It is such a great park. There was so much for the kids to do.

June 10, 2008

Tevan loves that he can stand up next to furniture and "cruise". He also loves to play with anything he can get his hands on. These just happen to be my shoes. He loves to put things up on tables, chairs, etc. and then take them off again. What a cutie pie!!!

June 11, 2008: Do I really have a child old enough for a big-boy-bike? Daeson suprised us both that he could hop on and ride. This is his first time and Troy and I were SHOCKED! He is growing up so quickly and I am so proud of him!!!

Daeson loves books. We try to read several each night. After we read to him, we tell a story and then sing a song. Then he is off to dreamland. It, sadly, is sometimes the only one-on-one time I get with him. We seem to keep pretty busy through the day!!!

June 15, 2008

RUB-A-DUB-DUB: June 13, 2008. This is Ryker, my nephew, Adalyn, my niece, and my big boy Daeson. We were happy Ryker could be here with us...what a treat. The kids LOVE bathing together.

June 14, 2008: THE BIG FIVE-OOHHHH BIRTHDAY PARTAY!

This is my parent's fiftieth birthday party. My mom turned 50 on the 13th and my dad on the 28th...I am so sure they are just ecstatic I am posting this!!! Ha-Ha! You can post it when I turn 50. These are some of our friends from 100 years ago...or about 30. Rick and Teresa Jackman and Karen and Lyle Scow. They are very good friends and I am happy they came...as was everyone else.



Here are some more long-time friends and some family. I cannot see very well in the picutre, but Cheryl, Jaden, Ron and Lindy, Darrold and Viginia, Grandma Lish, Chad Ridlesbacher and Kalene Larson, and Ernie ans Sue Moser...really long time friends.





This is family...let's see: Mitzi, Shalese, Shawntel, Shailee, Miki, Tucker,Eli, Dee, Shade, Hailey, Jess, me, Tevan, Carlie, Troy, Grandma Smith, Brookie, Katie, and Daeson. I didn't get everyone, but almost.

I asked Mom if she knew something was going on, she said they suspected something, but not this! This is them walking in. I told them it was Tevan's birthday party. I hope they enjoyed it...we sure did.



It's chow time...yummy food was brought. We had a TON of everything. Too much...I ate potato salad and cake for a week!!! But, it was sure great!

Family picture time...Hailey and Justin, Jandy, Tevan, Troy, Daeosn, Jaden, Brooke, Carlie and Jess.




Brookie and Daeson had a lot of fun playing on the stage. I know there were some who didn't like it, but it kept them occupied and happy. They weren't doing anything wrong, so I didn't care. To each their own.

It was adorable...thanks for the picture, Hailey!! Daeson was doing such a great job sharing with Tevan. What a good big brother!!!!





The birthday king and queen...We love you both very much!!!

No middle man...

Tonight was one of the greatest nights I have had in a while. I was able to clean the Idaho Falls Temple with some other members of our stake. I was really neat. We scrubbed lockers, dusted furniture and put rooms back together. After we were all done, we got a tour of the temple. We got to go underground and in the work shop areas. I met really nice people and we had some laughs. It was hard work, but the cleaning manager told us before we started that "when ye are in the service of our fellow beings, ye are in the service of our Lord." ( I don't have a ref, but it is from the scriptures.) Then she said, "There is no middle man. You are here serving the Lord Himself. This is His house and you are serving him directly." I thought that was really neat. The time went by really fast. We were there at 6 and finished at 9:30 pm. I had a lot of fun and it was a great opportunity to serve.

It has been a LOOOOOONG time since I have been to the temple and a TON of things have changed. It is so beautiful...not that it wasn't before, it's just all new now. It is so wonderful that we have a house of worship. It is so wonderful that we can serve our Lord in EVERY capacity...one no greater than the other. He doesn't care if we clean the toilets in the church house, or if we are "just a visiting teacher". All of His work is very important. We are so lucky to be able to accept the things He asks of us and it is so great that we can serve Him in so many ways.

Oh, and by the way, I am very supportive of the visiting teaching program. It is sometimes harder to give our time to visit the sisters and really feel their needs than to do other things we are asked. I don't mean to slander the VT program with the afformentioned statement. :) GO VT!!!

Movie Mahem

WALL E was the movies we went to see at 4:55 pm today. Yes, that is the movie we went to see but saw none. The reasons? A three year old and a one year old. I thought Daeson would be good having sat through Kung Foo Panda...the whole thing. However, today was not the case. He was AWFUL!! He ran up and down the ramp...even managing to escape Troy and I and running out the door. Not to mention the billion trips to the bathroom!! Tevan? Not much better. I took treats, waters, we bought popcorn...but all efforts were in vain. Nothing worked and I ended up leaving the movie theater early. Troy stayed with Daeson and I came home with Tevan. What a WASTE of money that movie was. I didn't even get to see the end...the best part in my mind. But, oh well. I guess if my kids were miserable, I should be too, right? For all of you wondering if you should go...sure. What I saw of it was really cute. Kind of a cute little love story. Or, if you have small children, maybe wait until it comes out on video. Save yourselves some money. My question is this: Why do they put 30 minutes of previews in kid's movies? That is 30 minutes my children would have seen the movie instead of getting restless towards the end of the movie. ???

ROCKBAND JUNKIE!!

For Father's Day, Troy got a Wii. I was hesitand because we have and XBox (for 5 years) and it doesn't get played very much. In fact, we have 32 games and they just sit...wasted money. But, the other day Troy brought home Rockband. We have now played the Wii almost as much as the XBox. I LOVE ROCKBAND!! Troy and I stay up late on the nights he doesn't have to go to work early and rock out. Troy is on the guitar and I on the drums. I played it so much that my arms are sore and I have a little blister under my ring. I never thought of myself as a rocker...but I am lovin' me some Rockband. If you haven't tried it, I suggest you come on over. We are in need of a singer as Troy and I are not the best in the world. But, seriously...you are more than welcome to come jam with us!!!!

Happy Birthday, Tevan!!!!!

Happy Birthday, Tevan!! We are so happy you are in our little family!! I cannot believe that you are one already...time flies! You have had a rough little life and I am so proud that you have made it thru all your surgeries and sickness. You mean the world to me, and I love you so, so much! You add excitement and laughter to our family. Daeson and Daddy love you, too.

I was quite pleased with the way the party went. Grandma Grover (Troy's dad's mom), Peggy, Kayla, Adalyn, Mieley, Heidi, Brad, Barbara, Austin, Cameron, Brother Gallup, Mahana, Troy, Daeson, Tevan and I were all there. Thank you to all of you who made it. We went to the new playground behind Funland at Tautphus Park. It is a great play area and it had a shelter we were able to use for the party. After the kids played, we ate cake and opened presents. I had a great time making his cake. I was sorely disappointed that the clowns melted in the heat. Bummer. It is a good thing I took pictures of the cake on the way there. We stopped at Jack in the Box for the kids a small lunch and actually won tickets to Taste of Idaho from Z103. They just happened to be giving away tickets in front of Smith's. It was a special treat for Troy and I. We have wanted to go, but tickets are $25 each. It was so nice to be able to go. Our cute little neighbor girl watched the boys. Troy and I hopped on the bike and went. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was great. They had a live band and a ton of people. It was a great day. I felt bad leaving Tevan on his birthday, but I think he might understand. :)

This is one of the four clowns. I had a great time making them. But already he was starting to sag.

Here is a side view of the cake. It had four clowns and four circus animals: seal, elephant, lion, and bear. Tevan was so excited when he saw it. He tried to grab it and squealed for joy. That made me feel good.

Tevan did not like getting his hands dirty or sticky. He hardly ate any of the cake. I was hoping for a real mess, but he just got a little messy on his hands and face. It was still cute and HE is so funny to watch all the expressions.

This is one of the cool toys at the park. Tevan sat on it and Grandma Blue turned him round and round. He loved it!! The turf was too hot for him to crawl on, so I am glad he had a toy that would work for him.

Tevan got so many great gifts, Thanks everyone!! He didn't quite get the open the present part, but he had a lot of good helpers. We got everyone a ride ticket. Troy and Tevan rode the Ferris Wheel with Daeson and Austin. Brother Gallup and Mahana rode the octopus, Cameron, Tevan, and I rode the train. Daeson, Mahana, and I rode the octopus; Adalyn and Mieley rode the carousel horses. We had fun, I hope the kids did too. Here is Troy and Tevie.

Austin and Daeson did really good on the Ferris Wheel. I personally hate the Ferris Wheel, and I was scared Daeson would bail. But, they did really great.

Tevan and I had fun on the train. Everyone was standing by the gate, waiving. Everytime we went around, he watched them and smiled. As soon as we were no longer facing them, he would start waiving. I am not sure what he was waiving at, or if it just took that long to get it processing...it was adorable!!!

The octopus was a love hate ride for me. And yes, for all of you wondering, those are tears. I really cried on the ride because I was laughing so hard...and crying because I hated it. It was fun though and I would do it again.

Our fun day ar Riot Zone

Troy took us to the Riot Zone Tuesday. We had a good time and it was nice to play with the kids. Here are some of our shots. I didn't get very many, but I did get a few. After the Riot Zone, he took us to eat at Stockman's Rest. by Rigby. It was tasty and I was very impressed with the kid's menu.

Daeson had so much fun on the giant slide, until he got a massive rug burn on his elbow. Then it was time quit.

We also had fun with the gladiator ring. Daeson could barely lift the sticks...they were pretty big for a little guy.

Tevan liked the blow up toys, too. I pulled him out when he started putting strange objects in his mouth. I think the leaves and the buds from the trees blew in to it. Yuck!

I think he might be the next Tiger Woods. Maybe not. He did have fun though. We all golfed...I only golfed for a while because Tevan was getting pretty impatient. So I did nine holes. Next time I go golfing, it willbe without my children. But, Daeson and Troy had fun.

Thanks, Troy for a fun afternoon!! It was great!!!

It's official...

Okay, so tonight it is official. I am weaning Tevan. He is not liking it much...he is screaming in his crib. I don't know what else to do. He will be one on Thursday, but I am completely out of milk. This cow is dry. HMPH. Well, I hope he comes out of it okay. He is so devastated right now and my neighbors probably think I am beating him or something (the window is opened). Augh! Wish me luck!!!

Happy Father's Day...a little late

Happy Father's Day!! I know I am a couple days late, but better
late than never!!! :) I just wanted to let my husband, dad and grandfather know how important they are to me.

First, I will start with Troy. He is a good man and I am so thankful for all that he does for me. He often is up around 3 am, goes to work and a lot of times ends his day around 9 pm after which he helps me get the kids to bed. He is a great dad and my children love him. He always make us feel special, and I appreciate all he does for us...I love you, babe.

Second, I would like to tell my dad how thankful I am for him. He worked hard for my family growing up and I know it wasn't easy. I know I wasn't an easy child to raise...DRAMA DRAMA, but he was patient with my and allowed me to make my own mistakes. He is very good with my kids and they love him so much. I can probably count the number of times I told my Dad that I love him, but I really do love my dad. He was there when I had Daeson, but not able to be there with Tevan. I was so sad he wasn't there. I love you, Dad.

Third, my grandfather. He is a good man and I am so glad my children have an opportunity to know him. He is healthy and I think he will be around for a while. Whenever we go to their house, he goes downstairs to find the toys for Daeson. He plays with the boys and takes them outside. He is a very kind and patient man...he is a very HARD worker, too. He has been an example to all of us. Love you, Grandpa!!

Happy Birthday, Grandma Tom!!!!

Happy Birthday, Grandma Tom!!! Daeson named my grandma "Grandma Tom" when he was about 1 1/2 yrs old because she has a cat named Tom. Grandma is a big part of our lives. We love to go visit her and see her as much as we can. We love our Gram!!! We hope she has a good 75th birthday, we wish we could have been there.

Be careful what you wish for...

Be careful what you wish for, it might come true. If you read the last part of my latest blog, I wrote that I wanted released from my calling. I am not even sure why I typed that, but I just got off on a tangent. I got a phone call this morning about 9:30 am from the Exec. Sec. telling me the Bishop wanted to talk to me. So I went in and after visiting for a minute, he issued me a release. Maybe last night HE was preping me for today. I am not sure. But, my name had been submitted for another calling...I cannot say what it is as it was not issued, I was just interviewed for it. I am not sure what to think. My mind is unsure of what is going on around me. I am barely staying afloat and I know that another calling...especially of that magnitude...would be very time consuming and put additional stress on my family. Troy voiced his opinion (I later went in for another meeting with Troy...like an interview for him) and the Bishop decided maybe he should hold off on the calling. He said he would be in touch and that Heavenly Father loves us very much.
I kinda knew earlier what he was going to talk to me about, and I have not had a feeling one way or another all day. However, in RS today a quote really stood out to me and it brought me to tears. It read, "No matter what may come upon you, round up your shoulders and bear it, and always sustain and defend the interests of the Church and Kingdom of God." Was that really talking to me? I don't know. But it still stands in my mind. Yes it is true that I am barely staying afloat and I have a lot on my plate right now, but I want to do what the Lord wants me to do. I have a very good friend who lives in Rexburg, she has two children and she has been called as RS Pres. She is amazing to me and I look up to her with much admiration. I don't know how she stays so calm and collected, but she does and she has the happiest disposition. ???????? I know the Lord loves me and He knows what is best for me. I just have to figure that out and decide to be happy. Prioritize...that is what I need. And FlyLady!!! :) We will see what happens, until then I won't hold my breath...

Partied out

Today was the big party day. It started out chaotic and ended in the same. I got up this morning to make two sheet cakes and finish the BBQ beef. Then I had to get two kids fed and ready to go. Troy ended up finishing early today, so he was here and able to help me a bit. I tried to find something to wear, but nothing looked good. Troy decided to take me shopping for some sandals and a new pair of capris. We found some darling sandals and some cute capris...and it only took one store!!! That is a first. I told Troy I wanted to get him a couple of different things for Father's Day, but he had to pick which one. I told him I wanted to get him a Wii or a season golf pass. He decided the Wii would be more fun, but we couldn't find one. Bummer. But, we should be able to find on next week. I think we are all excited about that. We never played our XBox, but I LOVE the tennis on the Wii...and there is a fun cow riding game Daeson likes. So, after looking but not finding a Wii, we finished errands and I frantically loaded the van. Katie, my cousin, rode with us to my mom and dad's partay.

We had a good turn out. For my mom's sake, I will try to name everyone who came. Max and Jan Shaffer, Dannette Shaffer, Ernie and Sue Moser, Dee, Eli, Tucker, Miki, Kip, Mitzi, Shailee, Shade, Shawntel, Shalese, Shad, Grandma Smith, Grandma and Grandpa Lish, Lindy, Ron, Aunt Virginia, Darrold, Cheryl, Lyle and Karen Scow, Rick and Teresa Jackman, Chad Rindlesbacher, Kalene Larson, Justin and Hailey, Jesse, Carlie, and Brooke, Jaden, Troy, Daeson, Tevan, myself, Bruce Bowers and girls...I hope I didn't forget anyone. We really had a great time; however, there were twenty-five more who RSVPed and didn't come. We had a ton of left over food!!! I think my parents had a good time at their fiftieth birthday suprise party. My brothers did a great job helping. We suprised them with a cruise. Yup, my parents are going to Cabo SanLucas and Ensanada in November for four days. I am happy to have them as my parents. We love you both!!

After cleaning up the church, I loaded things once again in the van, drove to IF (going as fast as I dare), unloaded the van from that party and loaded it again for the bridal shower. I am so glad Katie was here to help me. Troy was asleep in the back and was not about to wake up to help. I was irritated that I had to get everything done myself and as a result, I had to turn around twice and come back to the house for things forgotten. But, we made it to Rexburg via Ririe a half hour late. I missed most of the shower. But, they waited to do the presents until I arrived. She got a lot of great things. I also got to meet my soon-to-be-brother-in-law, Brad. He seems like a good guy.

We got everything put away, made more messes, cleaned up, made more messes...the cycle never ever ends. My kids have not been in bed before 11 pm the last three nights and they are just wiped out. Troy, of course, went to bed as soon as we got home. I unloaded and vacuumed the van (pretzels and chips make a terrible mess). The boys are sleeping and I am trying to decide if I should wait until tomorrow to clean, or if I should do it now. I am so tempted to wait. My eyelids are getting heavy. I know I should probably get it done tonight because tomorrow is Sunday, but Ithink I will wait.

I have a ton of stuff left on my to-do list and I hope that next week I can get it all done. My list seems to get longer and LONGER. Do you ever have the days where you just don't want to be home because it is easier to be away than to look at the messes and get discouraged? I promised myself that I am jumping back on the FlyLady wagon and start Monday. She is good for me and I slack way too much. So, maybe tomorrow I will just relax and let things slide one more day. I am so tempted to hire someone to do the little things that I never get to. Just once it would be nice to have someone else do the cleaning. I am just wiped out...tired of doing too many things. I would like to be released from my calling because I have done it for three years and it takes up a ton of time, but I will continue doing it. I must not have it right yet. And it keeps me going to church on those days that it seems like an unbearable task to sit thru 3 hours of church by myself. It is getting harded now that Tevan is active. He wiggles and does not want to sot still during Sac mtg, and then in SS he usually falls asleep...RS he is up again and wanting to play and jabber. Troy says church is my free time...but I am not seeing the freedom of chasing two small kids around for three hours. I think it is just his excuse not to come. Maybe one day Troy will be active...I am not holding my breath by any means, but MAYBE one day. It would sure make my life easier!!! There are times that I question why I am putting myself thru all of this, but I know that it is the true church. I know that my Savior loves me and died for me upon the cross. I am not perfect and I will be the first to admit that...but I can sure try to do the right things. I love my Savior and my Heavenly Father and I know they love me. It gives me hope to know that one day I might be able to live with them. What a great day that would be.

Well, I am headed off to bed to get some sleep...much needed sleep. I will have to load pictures tomorrow and put them on. I got some good ones. Good night and sleep well my friends!!

Pictures from our little trip...finally

So finally some pics!! I didn't take a whole lot this trip...





This is Bray-Bray and Daeson in the pool. They had a great time. They were excited to see each other.

Isn't this the cutest sun baby you have ever seen??? Tevan had fun in the pool. He did manage to go under a few times, but he survived! He loved it, but it only lasted a short while.

Tevan is my little climber. I looked up and here he was...climbed into the chair and tried to shut the toy box. He has it all figured out.

Daeson had a great time making homemade noodles with my mom. We had the most delicious chicken noodle soup. He loves going to Grandma's because he usually get to cook something from scratch.

I am not sure this is appropirate, but this is one of our many pee stops. I opened the van door, he peed right outside, and then back on the road. Thank heavens for wet wipes and hand sanitizer. Going up to my mom and dad's there are not a lot of pee stops...it works!!!

Happy Birthday, Mom!!!

Today is my mom's birthday. She was born on Friday, June 13...1958. Yup this year she is the big FIVE-OOOHHH!! Actually I feel really lucky to have parents as young as I do. I have friends with parents in their 70's, so, yeah, I am lucky.

I have never seen someone so dedicated to their children as my mom. She had four kids in six years and did a fine job raising us. She had hard times and had to do it on her own...mostly without family around. We moved a lot and she adjusted...it was a hard thing to do. She always helped with our projects and taught us to do all different types of things. I feel really lucky to have her in my life. When she was just twenty years old, she had heart surgery and was told not to have any more children...she had three more and I am sure glad. Elder Nelson of the Twelve performed her surgery and I think that has something to do with her being here with us today. We love you, Mom!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

We made it back!!!

Well, we made it back finally last night. ( I actually started this Wednesday) Pictures are going to have to wait, but I will do a quick run through of the trip.

Monday, June 2, 2008: I was up all night Sunday packing to leave. I think I crawled into bed about 3 and then the boys were up at 7. I worked on laundry and left some clothes to dry in the back seat of the van. The trip there was pretty good. I stocked up on treats (crackers, cheese, raisins, goldfish, etc.) and we only stopped three times before we got to Boise. I had the GPS, so I was feeling pretty confident that I would not get lost. We stayed with our good friends, Harley and Kelly and their two kids, Brayden and Kayla. We took the kids swimming at the pool near their house and the kids had a blast. Even Tevan did pretty good. He only went under a few times. :) I was glad I had a good grip on him. We then went back to their house and Kelly had made some really great food...alfredo, garlic bread, and broccoli. Tevan had three servings. Daeson was WAY too BUSY to eat. But, he managed a couple of bites here and there. After we got the kids to bed, Kelly and I watched Mad Money and then went to bed.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008: We were up early...well, Tevan and I. I showered before Daeson stirred and got ready. We were actually gone right around 10. The kids got to play and again, Kelly made really yummy french toast for breakfast...delicious! The kids were sad when we had to leave, but Daeson was excited to see his Dramma Cindy and Papa Ty. I cheated and gave them Benadryl before we left. It didn't work on Daeson, but Tevan slept for a couple of hours. I felt guily giving it to them, but I knew we had a long drive. The drive went really well though. I was shocked. We arrived at my Dad's office right about 3 pm. Daeson was just falling asleep...wouldn't ya know? But he was so happy that we were with Grandpa. We made great time getting there. I even suprised my dad. After we saw him for a minute, we went out to the house. It is just a couple miles out of town, but it seemed like it took forever. My mom was really glad to see us. Daeson had to check everything out and Tevan immediately gave my mom hugs and kisses. I unloaded while the kids were playing. Then we got back into the van and went into town. Volcanic Farms brings their fruits, vegetables, and homemade pies into town on Tuesdays and sells them...it was well worth the trip. The raspberry pie was delicious!!! We later went to Barb's Cafe to eat. That too was yummy. Then bed time. I was so glad to get to bed, and I think the kids were too.

Wednesday, June 4, 2008: My dad took a couple horses to the vet in the morning, so we just kinda hung around. I ran a couple errands with Tevan and Daeson stayed with my mom. My dad found out one of his horses has to be put down because of it's arthritis in his joints. It is always a sad thing when that happens. The other horse has lice...GROSS. But the poor thing is really sick with it. Did you know that the lice is carried thru birds? Ya, crazy. So, it was a sad turn out fot the horses, but atleast the one should get better soon. About 4 pm we got into the van and went to Lewiston. I drove there and then dad drove home. We had to pick up some shingles for my dad's shed he is building. Troy and I just had shocks replaced on the van and I am sooo glad. We stuffed the van FULL of shingles...my dad said it was about a ton...2000 pounds! We barely fit. Then we went to a cowboy store where my dad and mom bought the kids the CUTEST boots. This is Daeson's third pair of boots, and Tevan's first. They look adorable in them, and Daeson just beams. Then we went to Costco and ate at Pizza Hut. I took the kids' pjs with us and changed them in the Pizza Hut bathroom (that was a challenge and I think that my mom was getting flustered), but we did it, got back into the van, and the kids fell asleep...I think Daeson might have been awake, but Tevan was out. I bought invites while in Lewiston or Clarkston (whichever we were in) and stayed up making them out. It was nice to finally get to bed...Daeson made my mom read to him, and he continuously got out of bed. I had no idea because I was in bed and thought that he was too. But she was a great sport and stayed up with him. Thanks Mom!!!


Thursday, June 5, 2008: HAPPY BIRTHDAY BROOKIE!!! My niece turned 3 today, we love you Brooke!! The days all ran together, so I think this is what we did??...We went to the Post Office and it rained. I think this is the day we went grocery shopping too. I am not sure, but I think so. Mom got a birthday cake and Daeson blew out the candles. It rained some more, and more. In fact, it rained so much that the mud was about one foot deep.


Friday, June 6, 2008: It rained more, Daeson enjoyed Dora and Diego (since we don't have TV in our home, he thought this was great...except when a commercial came on, then we had a bit of drama), and I worked on my FHE packets for enrichment. I have to get a move on them or I will never get them done!! My letters are N, M, O, Z. So I chose to do Nine Be Attitudes, Mission Work, Obedience, and Zion. So if any of you have ideas for a lesson, song, scripture, treat and activity for any of those, let me know. :)

Saturday, June 7, 2008: My dad went to a farm auction after he got off call. Daeson and I went out there while Tevan was asleep. It rained some more. We were only out there a short time. We came back and I started to pack. I wanted to go to Lewiston to get some things done, but we didn't go. I was going to leave this day, but after my dad threw a fit, I decided to wait until Monday....See dad, I DO listen to you. But, I got some things tied up and put away so I wouldn't have to do it all later.


Sunday, June 8, 2008: Happy Birthday to...ME. Yup, the big 28. Daeson went to church with my mom and dad, I stayed home with Tevan who was taking a much needed nap. I read in the Janette Oke series, Love Comes Softly, and enjoyed myself. I also packed some more. It was a beautiful day so I took Tevan out to see the horses. Daeson, Mom and Dad got home, and I walked down to get him. Dad, Daeson, Tevan and I then walked back up to see the horses and the boys even sat on a couple. Tevan didn't like it much. Daeson loved it until the horse started moving and my dad yanked him off. He didn't like it much after that. Mom was busy making a dinner...we took it to the park and had a picnic...hamburgers, salad, beans, watermelon and corn on the cob...YUMMO!!! We played croquet and the boys played on the play ground. There were a bunch of big kids...like teenagers...who took over. I was annoyed because Daeson couldn't play without getting ran over. I was really bugged. Anyway, we soon packed up and headed home. I got the kids bathed and ready for bed.


Monday, June 9, 2008: I had to get my brakes checked in the morning, then I did laundry and packed everything. I couldn't get it in the van, but it was ready to go. Mom ran me in to get the van, I ran to the store to get snacks for the trip, and loaded the van. We met Dad for lunch at Paleques ( a pretty good mexican rest) and headed out. We drove to Boise, I hit right at rush hour, but did okay. We arrived to Kelly and Harley's at about 7 pm and was glad to be there. The boys did pretty good...or not. Daeson managed to pee his pants five minutes before I could stop, and somehow Tevan peed thru but his diaper was dry. Go figure??? But other than peed in car seats and a cranky mom (me), we did okay. Kelly made some really great lasagna. It was so yummy. Then we ran to Old Navy so I could get Fourth of July shirts for the boys. They are pretty cute and I am excited to see the boys in them. It was a bit harded to get the kids to sleep tonight because of our late arrival. Daeson would not go to sleep to save his life. Tevan did okay. Harley, Kelly and I played tennis on the Wii. I love it!!! It was fun.


Tuesday, June 10, 2008: We got up, ate and headed out to Babies R Us. i found a new diaper bag and a couple new rompers for Tevan for summer...if it ever gets nice. We ate at Carl's Jr and let the kids play...The terriyaki burger, by the way, is to DIE for. I loved it!! The kids meals were HUGE, and we were all happy. Delicious. Then it was time to leave. We were set to go, I knew Tevan would fall asleep and I was glad he slept until just before Jerome. We stopped at a gas station to fill-up and Daeson picked out some treats. This is where the drama started. My mom and Troy both gave him $5.00. I put it in his wallet and put the wallet in the diaper bag. However, when we got up to the front to have him pay for his treats, which he was sooo excited to do, the money was gone. DRAMA!!!!! So, I put the kids in the van, ran back in to pay with some cash that I had...luckily I had cash or I would have made a dollar debit purchase, and proceeded to call Kelly to see if she found find the money. He told me he put it in Brayden's train table, but it wasn't there. So, the money remains missing...he is totally devestated. He asks me every day if his monies are found. I have to tell him no and then he throws a fit. So, I finally got the kids settled down and we were on the way again. The last half took forever. It seemed like the road was never going to end!!! But, I finally called Troy about American Falls and asked him to get some meat out for dinner and told him I would make spaghetti and garlic bread and corn. We were just about to Idaho Falls...the Rose Firth exit...when my boys just couldn't take it any more. Tevan cried so hard that he was litterally turning blue. Daeson was screaming his head off, so we pulled over for a spell. We could have been home by the time we stopped and got going again, but it was okay. When we got home, Troy had a great dinner made for us...he even made the sauce from scratch. It was GREAT, thanks Babe! He then bathed the boys and I cleaned out the van. IT WAS A DISASTER!! I smiled at how nice it looked...a fresh clean van. We put the kids to bed and I stayed up til 2:30 am cleaning. Oh, Troy gave me a birthday present, too. A NEW DIGI CAM. I am so excited about that! It is great! Thanks, TROY!! I LOVE YOU!!

Wednesday, June 11, 2008: Busy, Busy...Tevan has a double ear infection, and hates his new medicine. He is miserable. Troy took Daeson to Rexburg to play with his cousins, Adalyn and Mieley, and Kayla came down here to shop for Heidi's bridal shower. We spent a LONG time shopping, but finally found something we think she...or maybe mostly Brad, will like. I got home just in time to finish dinner (Troy actually did the rice) and we ate. I had homemaking at 7 and Troy took Daeson to Kung Foo Panda. He said it is super good and that it is one we will buy. Daeson absolutely loved it and cannot stop talking about it. We had a good time at homemaking and I actually won a prize for the heaviest purse ( I use my diaper bag...but it goes with me everywhere. It weighs more than Tevan!!!). It was fun and we had a great time.

Thursday, June 12, 2008: I worked on party stuff today. We finally got our parents' present figured out, but I cannot say what it is because my mom reads this. I was in a bad mood today even though I tried really hard not to be. Every little thing irritated me. I guess it is all the meds and junk that I am on to clear up some cysts that I have. I will be glad when there are no more pills to take and the cysts will be GONE!!! I am so cranky sometimes I just want to hide! But it will soon be over...a couple more months. I took the boys to dinner last night at Papa Kelsey's and then got them bathed. Troy and I then took our boys on a walk. Daeson actually rides a big boy bike now with training wheels so he rode that. He did a great job and only crashed twice. He is such a big boy now!!! Daeson and I stayed up and watched Nancy Drew (not too bad, I kinda liked it) and ate popcorn. He fell asleep shortly after the movie started, but I enjoyed just holding him close. There is something so sweet about sleeping children. About 12:30 I went to bed...with my house a mess.

I will get the pictures on here as soon as I load them.

Am I CraZy???

Okay, so I decided today at about 3:00 p.m. to leave tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. to drive to my parent's house: 10 hours away. Yeah, I know. CRAZY...my two children and I. So, I am frantically packing, doing laundry, cleaning out the van (which I just did a few days ago, so it's not bad) and trying to remember EVERYTHING I will need for a week. Daeson really wants to see his grandparents, and I could use some fresh air, too. I am excited, a bit nervous, but excited nonetheless. I might blog while I am there, I might not...we'll see. I am driving to Boise tomorrow to stay with a good friend, and then Tuesday driving the rest of the way to Grangeville. It will be nice breaking up the day. We are going swimming tomorrow...Tevan has never done that...and Daeson will get to play with Brayden and Kayla. They are so excited to play together. I think my dad is really excited, too. He already has plans for Daeson. So, everyone take care and we will see you next week. :)

Our Trip to Jackson Hole...Happy Memorial Day

Okay, so we decided to do something FUN on Memorial Day since Troy only did tortillas in the morning. We love to go different places...I didn't want to stay in IF with nothing new to do. So, we packed the kids and picked up Heidi (Troy's little sis) and headed out to Jackson Hole, WY. We were so excited for the day's activities: walk around, do some shopping, eat at a really great place, and attend the cowboy shoot out. About Rire I remembered that I didn't pack jackets for Troy and I, just the boys. The weather forecast said 40 degrees with thunderstorms and rain. So there was strike ONE.

Strike TWO: We pulled into Jackson and it was RAINING. Not just a little rain, but at times, POURING. But, luckily I had bundled up the kids and packed the double stroller with double umbrellas. The first store we found was Eddie Bauer. I decided I love this store. Not only do their pants fit me well, but a size SMALLER!! That was super great. Oh, and the two pair I bought were on SALE: $20.00! Troy and I also found coats on CLEARANCE. They even had hoods on them. So, we were then set to go out, yet again, in the rain. We ventured the streets of Jackson Hole, WY finding some fun stores and cute things to look at. I wanted to buy so much more, but I was feeling guilty about the money already spent on jackets and pants.

The rain increased and finally, after searching out the candy store, found refuge. We spent a good twenty minutes to a half hour in the candy store. I got a piece of fudge, Troy picked a haystack and Daeson got a HUGE lollypop. I was, however, very disappointed. The fudge was not that good and Daeson broke his HUGE lollypop into pieces. Strike THREE. I would much rather have fudge from the PLAYMILL!!! Delicious.

Yes, there are two more strikes, here is strike THREE. We then decided we were starving. Not just hungry, but fussy kids, grumpy wife STARVING. We were not expecting to find a cheap place in Jackson, but reasonable would have been nice. We walked into Teton Steakhouse (I think that is it...I had heard good things about it) and looked at the menu. $29.00 each person? Are you out of your minds? We had three adults and two children to buy dinner for...I don't think so. We left that restaraunt and went back to the car. We found a Village Inn just on the outskirts of town and decided that is where we were going to eat. We all got full and it didn't cost us a fortune, but the service was not great. In fact, it was on the verge of TERRIBLE. So, if you are looking for a place to eat pretty good food at reasonable prices, but not have great service, Village Inn is your place.

Now finally strike FOUR. (you didn't know there were four strikes in the game, did you?) We didn't get to see the cowboy shoot out show. The rain was beating down and it turned COLD. I was so glad that I had packed extra outfits for the kids because we ended up using them. Daeson was extremely disappointed that he didn't get to see the cowboys, but he got over it.

I know this probably sounds like we didn't have a great time...but, we really did. We got to spend the day as a family and that is something we don't get very much. Troy is so busy all the time between his three jobs that we hardly ever see him. So, it was very nice to have that. And, I got new clothes :) now who wouldn't be happy with that? Here are some pics from the trip...a picture is worth a thousand words, right? It really was a good time, there was the good points in with the bad.

Pictures from Jackson Hole

This was the weather to and from Jackson Hole, fun, fun!

Daeson and Heidi waiting for their food at Village Inn...waiting...waiting...

Yes, I will have the filet mingnon and the creme brulee...and your finest bottle of milk.

All tuckered out...long day....

I love the naps...especially after a HARD days work....

Aunt Heidi couldn't resist the lull of the van as we drove home. I fell asleep for a bit, but I woke up just in time for a square icecream cone...I was the only one awake...oh, and Troy of course. But he, too, couldn't resist the sleep so I drove the rest of the way home. And here is yet another weather picture...do people really take these?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAESON

Well, today was the BIG day...Daeson's third birthday party. We were supposed to have it at the park, but instead we had it at Leo's Place. He absolutely LOVED it, and I think everyone had a good time. We had a great turn-out...Grandma Tom, Great Grandma Grover, Mikayla, Shalese, Katie, Grandma and Grandpa Blue, Adam, Kayla, Adalyn, Mieley, Jaden, Brayden, Kayla (a different one), Harley, Kelly, Brother Gallup, Sasha, Bianca, Ashley, Heidi, Kaden, Baisden's (some of the family was there having dinner and they came in for cake and icecream), Tevan, Mom, Dad and, of course, The Birthday Boy. We had pizza, salad, icecream and cake. He recieved a TON of great things: bubble machine, 101 Dalmations, a couple of monster trucks, a swimming pool, shoot guns and a cowboy hat, money, bubble gum machine, clothes, books, Wiggles DVD, Tball (actually he got two of them :) ) and some other really great things. I have drawn a blank...it is late. The kids had a great time playing in the play gym and the adults had a great time chasing them...right Kayla??? I am so glad we had changed it from the park. It looked like a nice day early this morning, then about 1:00 it poured. I was happy that I had already made reservations at Leo's...they were packed today. Thank you to all of those who could be here, and for those who could not, we missed you. We are so proud of our little 3 year old. He is such a joy in our lives...he is so smart and fun. WE LOVE YOU!!!

Our celebration day

Well, I guess I am not too great at the picture organizing. I wanted to have these after the next blog, but can't figure out what to do. Here are the pictures from today's festivities.
This is Daeson after the party in our kitchen with his new shoot gun.

This is Tevan at Leo's riding the ride. At first he loved it, then not so much.

Happy Birthday, Daeson loved the prestents. Thanks again everyone.

Thanks Grandma Blue...Daeson did this last year all by himself. This

year he had help witht he idea. I can't believe a year had gone by already!!!
These are my cousins. Super cute girls. In fact, Katie and Shalese hung out most of the night with us. Way fun!!!

Katie and Shalese...cute girls!
Grandma Tom and Tevan at Leo's before the partay began...the hat didn't last long.

Three Dog Night

Three Dog Night? I know, a little bit before my age...a little...but I am so stinking excited they are coming to Idaho Falls July 26. I already have tickets purchased so all I need to do is get a sitter!!!! My parents are coming, too. And Troy's mom and dad. It will be a regualar partay!!

I grew up listening to my dad's music and to this day that is the music I prefer. The 70's was such a wonderful era...aside from the war and hippiees :)! Actually, I love the hippiees. But, I get to experience the music first hand. We have seen ZZ Top, Styx, and now Three Dog Night. What great experiences.

Tagged again...

Tagged again by Mandi...here it goes.

4 jobs that I have had:
1. secretary for my dad's Dr. office
2. front end manager at Broulim's in Rexburg
3. bookkeeper at the same place as above...AKA Hell (pardon the language, there is not another word to describe it)
4. vault teller at Bank of Commerce in Rexburg (loved this job)

4 movies I could watch over and over: (this is a HARD ?)
1. The Other Sister
2. Simon Birch
3. Pursuit of Happyness
4. anything from the Shirley Temple era

4 places I have lived:
1. Pocatello, ID 1980-1987
2. Kirksville, MO 1987-1991
3. Denver, CO 1991-1994
4. Malad, ID 1994-1998...Pocatello, Malad, Rexburg, Idaho Falls...Hopefully here to stay

4 places I would rather be:
1. Scrapbooking, I am sooo far behind
2. Reading my book from the library that is due soon
3. On a fun vacation with my family
4. On a romantic vacation with Troy

4 things I am looking forward to in 2008:
1. Not being Pregnant or nursing
2. Daeson's 3rd bday party on Saturday
3. Tevan's birthday in June
4. My basement's remodel finished

4 people I am tagging:
1. HAHA Kayla
2. Kristy
3. Nicole
4. Kelly

A Knack for motorbiking

Uncle Adam with Tevan on the motor bike...his very first time. I was freaking out because he didn't have a helmet on. This is probably why they did it while I was inside getting the cake ready.

So, I think riding a motorbike comes naturally for me. I was absolutely brilliant last week when I gracefully rode my father-in-law's motorbike. I really wanted to learn to ride...I have tried once before and did okay, so I thought "How hard could it really be?? I have ridden 4 wheelers and jet skis, so really how hard is this?". Let me just say that it was much easier said than done. I actually think I gave my brother-in-law, Adam, a heart attack...or atleast made him sick to his stomache. Let me back up and tell the story of my brilliant skill.

My sis-in-law, Heidi, turned 19 on the 15th. Yes, I said 19 and she is getting married!!! Oh, so young. But that is another story all together...back to the bike riding. Happy birthday, Heidi! After we ate a delicious BBQ dinner, we played outside. Daeson knows that everytime we go to Damma and Papa Blue's he gets to take a ride on either the 4 wheeler or the bikes. So the guys fired those babies up and away we went. Troy and I have been riding our Honda Shadow around a lot lately and I think I have the bike bug. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the bike. So, I thought why not try to ride one. Troy explained to me what handle does what and away I went...very unsteady. I did okay, until I came around the corner. Let me try to explain this as closely as I can for you to picture in your minds. My in-laws live on a huge piece of land. Their house sits in the middle and they have a circular drive way. As you come around from the back of the house to the side, there are big trees and then the drive way. On the other side of the driveway there are more big trees, big, full pine trees. On this particular day Adam had his Ice truck and trailer in the driveway, there was a trailer with snowmachines on it, Heidi's car, Adam and Kayla's Acadia, our van and Peggy's car. Well, as soon as I cleared the trees I saw all of these lovely things parked not two feet from me...keep in mind I paniced and could not remember, to save my life, which was the brake, the clutch or the gas. So after frantically trying all of them, I sped up...this is the point Adam had a heart attack. Well, I thought to myself, "I either hit the very expensive-brand-new Acadia, or I go through the trees and take my chances. So, I ran through the trees. Atleast I did it gracefully...I threw my hands up in the air and I think I even screamed. I still couldn't remember how to stop, so I was extremely grateful the bike killed and stopped on its own. Adam came running, thinking I had hit his car, and took a sigh of relief when he saw that I chose the trees instead of the cars. The worst that happend was all the scratches from the tree...OUCH!! and my bleeding knuckles. I was so disappointed that Troy missed the whole thing...he was inside getting the camera. But, they let me back on and I did okay. I am not ready to buy me a Harley yet, but we are getting there. I asked Troy if I could take his Honda out...he just laughed. The last time I tried to move his bike, I nearly killed Daeson and me...and Tevan as he was in the womb. But, that is another story in itself.