Little Party of 7

2009-09-23T21:13:00.002-06:00

15 YEARS - WOOHOO!!!

Happy Anniversary to my Hunny Bunny!!!

2009-03-28T23:51:00.002-06:00

WOOHOO!!! WE DID IT!!!
Today Brandon graduated from ITT with his Bachelor of Science degree in Information System Security!! We were talking on the way there about his first day being on March 17, 2003. It took nearly 6 years, but we stuck it out & got it done. When we arrived and were greeted by his program director, we were informed that Brandon was awarded the SALUTATORIAN for his class!!! This is quite a feat for any student, but even more for one that is married with 4 young children & who works full time. I could not keep from crying as I saw the rewards of so many years of hard work, dedication and determination. Brandon's desire to do his best has been his priority throughout his education with ITT and I admire him so much for excelling in so many areas. The Lord gave Brandon a keen mind & the ability to retain information and I'm glad he has had the desire to fill his mind and feel he will be blessed for utilizing his gifts. I feel so blessed to have been able to be beside him in this quest and am so grateful that we are still all in one piece. There have been many ups and downs, but I'm so glad this day is finally here!!! I am also so thankful to the many wonderful people that have donated their time & talents to getting us through these last few years-Thank you, thank you!!
CONGRATULATIONS DEAR!!! I love and ADMIRE you!!! : -)

2009-03-26T01:14:00.000-06:00

Heading home
I think they now knew the long ride home they were in for. We stopped in Vegas & had lunch with Tiffany and her family along with Bill, Jeanette, Tracy & Ray who were visiting Tiffany. We stayed over night & left early to get home & do some unpacking.
This was such a fun vacation for us & the memories made were incredible. Each of the kids wants to go back again so bad, but they understand the sacrifices that are made in order to get there and they know it will be another year or two before we're able to go again. I'm so glad we got to share it with my parents and for the memories they have helped create with us. Thanks MOM & DAD!!! We love and appreciate all you do for our family!!!

2009-03-26T00:51:00.005-06:00

Saturday Day 7 of Disneyland Vacation
Today we went to the San Diego zoo. It had been probably 20 years since I had been there and it was a great way to slow down before the long ride back home.

Pretty Peacock

We loved the Panda....I think he loved us too. He was smiling at us.

They had just had a new baby & so everyone had to be really quiet.

I was happy to have the people mover. My legs were so tired.

Having fun

Photo op

This kid loves animals. He was in heaven at the zoo.

I thought the hippos were kissing. But maybe fighting....

After we left the zoo we took a minute to drive around by the ocean and saw all the ships

Back to the hotel & prep for home!!!

2009-03-26T00:24:00.001-06:00

Friday Day 6 of Disneyland Vacation
Today we went to Disneyland/California Adventure for the last time this trip. It was really sad because we had saved the final day for the weekend day when they have a bunch of extra shows that are not during the week.

One was the High School Musical show which we had to see. And they added a few participants from the audience. So the girls got to be celebrities for a few minutes.

They were so excited!!

I love this picture-It just makes me laugh!!! I love my man!!!

Goofing around

Xanna and her DaddyO

Atticus taking the wheel

My Little Chicks posing in the O

We had to go back to Disneyland to see the Parade of Dreams.

Xanna posing outside the Tiki Hut This is one of my Dad's favorite events. I think it's a Grandpa things. Although Atticus was entranced as well...which is rare.
We had to go back to California Adventure as we couldn't miss the Main Street Electrical Parade.....Sniff, sniff, cry, cry. This was on of my all time favorite parts of Disneyland growing up. It's so fascinating. The music alone brings tears..... I know I'm a bawl baby-I don't care.

It's finally here!!

Beautiful Cinderella

And Elliot

By the end of the parade Atticus was completely checked out. He missed the end of day fireworks...But we still needed to go back to Disneyland to see Mickey Mouse in Fantasmic. Well, Brandon and I and my Dad were the only ones that braved the crouds to get back over there. The kids went back to the hotel with Grammy and Ty & Carrie. We went back & forth from one park to the other about 5 times that day just to see it all & the kids were exhausted. I'm not sure they really appreciated it all worth their tired little legs, but now they talk of it & the memories emblazened on their minds will last forever!!

2009-03-25T23:04:00.007-06:00

Thursday Day 5 of Disneyland Vacation

Today we went to Universal Studios Hollywood.

I just love the walk to the entrance-The Gorilla is my favorite!!

It took a little longer to get to the gates because of this little guy that LOVES the water!!!

It was so sad to make him leave.These statues were pretty cool...until one of them began moving and walking around the park. The girls just love Dora. Especially Xanna-she wants to speak Spanish so bad.And we found Shrek and some weird Fiona.... I'm not sure if she even had eyes. Atticus loves Shrek!!
These guys fit right in!
I was looking forward to the Miami Vice show, but I guess that has been gone for some time. At least the cast of the Waterworld was equally entertaining. Alaina loves the movie Waterworld- She and Brandon watch it all the time.

The contestants of the Incredible Hulk look-a-like contest

Alaini Lou Hulk

Braxty B Hulk
Xanna Du Hulk
Mamma Hulk
Daddy Hulk

I totally won that contest hands down....I've had lots of practice!!

And, of course, the get wet ride.

I don't know where this guy came from???

But this is just the cutest little Football player ever!!!

Unfortunately, we lost Atticus's Buzz Lightyear hat somewhere inside Universal Studios...... What a sad, sad day!! Good thing we're going back to Disneyland tomorrow.

2009-03-25T22:35:00.000-06:00

So I've determined that I absolutely refuse to get a year behind on my blog. So, I plan to speed through the remainder of the year and get back to date. Don't think I won't get behind again soon, but at least for the day I am motivated & moving on.....

2009-01-17T10:21:00.002-07:00

Wednesday, Day 4 of Disneyland Vacation

Wednesday we went to Sea World. I love the drive down to San Diego. I remember it from when I was little. Being right next to the ocean and the dense fog that seemed to always be there. It was a pretty day, perfectly overcast.

Pictures with the Clydesdale

My little girls

The main attraction:

Gotta love Shamu!!

However, our family could spend the whole day at the Forbidden Reef petting and feeding the

California bat rays

Appetizing.....right??

You'd think she'd done this before....if it weren't for her somewhat disgusted face.

I think it went for his finger

Everyone gettin' in on the action

Bright shining smiles!!

We watched the flamingos for a while & all I could think about was this song from when I was a kid "Mr. Stand on One Leg is such a funny bird, standing there on one leg is so absurd!" Anyway, just a little tidbit for ya...

The dolphin show

Atticus was mesmerized!

Anxiously awaiting the Clyde & Seymour show

And there he is.

The shark attraction

The underwater tube is extremely cool

Duh dum, duh dum, duh dum....

Penguin Encounter-One of Brandon's favorite attractions

Cutest penguins EVER!!!

Atticus loving the Commerson's dolphin.

Next we went back over to Journey to Atlantis

We had checked it out when we first got there, but

decided we would wait until the sun came out to get wet.

And there we are.

Brandon stayed back with Atticus as he was too little to ride. We got off the ride and met back with Brandon who was laughing hysterically, but trying to be nonchalant about what he was doing. He kept feeding money into the spray guns at the end of the hill and blasting poor, unsuspecting passengers that he had never before seen in his life!! The guns are placed perfectly so you think you are finally out of any possible range of water, and have finally managed to put your hair back in place and then you get pelted right in the face with a blast of water. He probably blew 20 bucks just in the time it took for us to get off the ride. I have to admit, it was pretty hilarious though.

The star fish at the California Tide Pool

I love all the hands-on exhibits at Sea World!!

Even Atticus got to touch them.

Waving goodbye to Shamu, until next time!!!

2009-01-11T17:29:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, Day 3 of Disneyland Vacation

Tuesday we went to Disneyland!We had purchased some autograph books and pens for Braxton, Laini & Xanna as they were certain they would see many celebrities & wanted to have proof that they had acutally seen them. It was a good thing because upon arriving we were greeted by several celebrities!

Goofy-(I know, I couldn't tell which was which either),

Chip N Dale (at least that's who they said they were),

Donald Duck (notice the handy autograph books),

Pluto,

And our gracious host, Mickey Mouse himself!!

Atticus stared in amazement at most of them - Cutest picture ever!

Poor Pluto could barely see to sign the books.

We went on some rides

This Kid had such a good aim!!!

Only the non-pukers braved this ride. Although part way through Laini looked like she might lose it any second!!

Atticus was sad he couldn't go on the teacups, but Cotton Candy is a cure all!

We visited Toon Town which amazes me every time I see it.
It's so cartoony, but real.....weird!
I wish I could have this mailbox...It's so cute!!

Little Pumpkin Seed

Then the contest of strength:

Braxton
Laini

Xanna

Poor Minnie couldn't keep them out of her fridge either...

He wanted to slide down that banister SO BAD!!!

So I let him!! : -)

She's always wanted to play the piano. This really is the place where dreams come true!!

A few celebrities made random appearances

My little princesses.

One day she'll be a celebrity!!

And of course the wet photos. A great way to end the day!!!

2008-11-05T19:31:00.001-07:00

Monday, Day 2 of Disneyland Vacation

Monday we went to Disney's California Adventure. Our family had never been there before as the last time we went we only did Disneyland for one day. So this time, we had to see California Adventure and all the fun Pixar characters there. After sucking down a few Dramamine (I hate getting old!!), we jetted off to some rides. Then over to the playland for the kids.

Cute little guy

Unfortunately the older 3 went missing for about 3 minutes in the playland, so we didn't get may pics of them in there.

Then we took in a couple of more rides.....Bummer-the Dramamine didn't work quite as well as I'd hoped on the California Screamin' or as I call it, the Mickey Mouse ears ride. So we headed over to the Ferris Wheel for some leg rest and mental relaxation. Well, we were in for quite a surprise.

Before pictures- see the smiles??

More before pictures. Check out the "too cool kid".

Another before picture......

Well, I didn't get any after pictures, but a brief synopsis of the event goes a little like this. On this particular ferris wheel the individual carts are enclosed in a cage and we sit across from each other. As the ferris wheel moves around, the individual carts slide on a track and sway freely, while still being held "securely" to the track. We viewed this prior to stepping into the cart & also chose a cart that would sway freely. Some are just stationary and don't slide around. Well, as we began our ascent and to go around... Our cart took a little zoom down it's track..... we all just kind of laughed the first time. But as the ferris wheel was loaded with other passengers and we went higher and higher the little zoom became a huge zoom and a couple times even I wondered if we may just detach from the ferris wheel. Eventually the real side of Braxton emerged and he yelled "We're all gonna die!!!" and on came the tears....Every kid was bawling and screaming for their lives: "We're gonna die...We're gonna die!!!" Aside from laughing almost hysterically, the adults maintained their composure. I finally reminded Braxton to get control of his brain & that he was not going to die!!! Once he calmed down, Laini & Xanna realized that it probably wasn't that serious and eventually the tears ceased... Unfortunately we didn't get any after pictures while trying to maintain control of the seemingly doomed passengers in our cart. But oh they are stuck in my mind!!! One thing I was reminded of is how much the kids look to each other for strength. And in this situation one of them totally lost it & therefore the others followed close behind...
We also saw the fabulous characters in the parade:

Lightneen Akeen (as he is known in our house)

Sulley

Mr. Ebble (sort of sounds like apple...)

Buzz Ligghhcckkyear (he throws in some throaty sound with this one)

Woody, Jessie & Rex

And lastly, Mater.
There were tons of others, but these were the ones we came for the most.
I think Atticus' finger was stuck in one position the entire parade:

Pointing

A little kinked, but still pointing

And still kinked

I totally love that last one. The pure delight on his face just brings tears to my eyes!! The kids loved this place! And the older 3 thoroughly enjoyed watching Atticus' excitement over every little thing! Not that I'm biased, but we totally have the best kids in the world!!!

2008-11-04T22:14:00.000-07:00

Sunday, Day 1 of Disneyland Vacation

Because Sunday is a day of rest & relaxation we decided to go to the beach on that day. I didn't take tons of pictures there.......Not a big fan of a bathing suit......But, boy it was fun to watch those around us!!

So after about being run over by probably 4 bikes trying to get down to the beach, we finally got setup.

Just as the guys decide to go out into the water, we dared Tyler to run out in just his Speedo. Well, he totally did it!! Just dropped his shorts & took off into the water!! My camera was not ready so I missed it, but I was definitely there to see it. Needless to say he stayed in the water for a VERY long time after that. It's one thing to run into the water with everyone watching your backside.....But, clearly another to come in with everyone watching your frontside!! Has anyone seen a certain episode of Seinfeld??? Sorry Ty, you'll never live it down!!!

Brandon in the middle holding Xanna in the water. Braxton & Tyler behind him & Laini just walking out there.

The girls loved playing in the water & collecting seashells!!! After a while they got tired of the salt & came in to play in the sand.

Finally coming in from the water!!

After playing on the beach & in the water we walked up to where the shops were and walked around. We went to Venice beach which is apparently called muscle beach, too. They have an outdoor weightroom right on the beach. One guy was wearing a speedo and looked to be at least 60 and carried his "boombox" down the beach with just the speedo & tennis shoes on. Apparently he's a regular there... There were lots of entertainer type people set up wanting your money & they were fun to watch. There was also a group of boys playing the marching band type drums. They were really good!!

Then we went back to the hotel & swam in the pool some more & sat in the hot tub some more & watched the fireworks again. Then off to bed!!

2008-11-01T22:13:00.014-06:00

Earlier this year (much earlier, I might add) in May, we had the pleasure of going to Southern California with my Dad, Mom, brother Tyler & his wife Carrie. We had so much fun and then came home and next thing I knew it was summer!! I totally lost myself and had very little time to think. So my blog has totally been neglected. Anyhow, I am going to do my best at getting the summer festivities on this blog & try again to get in the groove!!!

Brandon purchased a larger memory stick for his camera so we had the opportunity to take thousands of pictures of this memorous occasion.....No I won't bore you with all of them (I think that's part of why it's taken me so long to complete the post for the week).

When we left our house on Friday afternoon driving in our mini van, I had my camera out & taking pictures the whole while planning my posts.......Well, at least I had good intentions!! I know, I know blah, blah, blah is paved with good intentions..... whatever, I'll try harder!

Happy smiling faces!! Oh so excited to finally be going to Disneyland. The last time we went Braxton was 4 1/2, Laini was 1 1/2 & Xanna was 3 months & Atticus.....well, wasn't even a thought!!

Well, they didn't last long.

Before long they were all checked out!!! I love road trips!!!

I, of course, stayed up to keep Brandon company while he drove. I think he was maybe a little sick of me. I tend to get a bit obnoxious after midnight.....

We saw lots of

these.

(nice photography I know, Brandon wouldn't stop for the sake of my blog.....Can you even believe it!!!)

We saw even more of

this.

And plenty of

these. Poor little stupid bugs!!! Honestly.....get out of the way!!!! We're on our way to DISNEYLAND!!!

We stopped in Las Vegas and stayed Friday night with Brandon's sister Tiffany. Sadly we didn't get there until 1:00 am (Vegas time) or so if I remember, so we just zonked right out. We hung out a bit the next morning before taking off again. We met up with my parents in Barstow and continued on to Anaheim-Woohoo!! Tyler & Carrie were waiting-they flew down the day before to have some ALONE time with their Ford Mustang!!

At last our new home for the next 8 days!!!

Saturday night we just got settled in our room & went swimming & sat in the hot tub! We could see the end of day fireworks at Disneyland from the balcony so we watched them and, like a dummy...I had tears in my eyes in anticipation of watching my kids fall in love with DISNEYLAND!!!!

2008-09-08T20:12:00.000-06:00

APPLES, PEACHES, PUMPKIN PIE-IF YOU'RE NOT READY HOLLER "I"!

Wow, I feel like I've been playing an incredible game of hide & seek.... Many have tried to "seek" me out, but to no avail-I was hidden way too well! Maybe in my office, or buried in the laundry room, sometimes out of town & quite often simply OUT OF MY MIND! Man it has been a crazy few months!! We've had lots of fun, some trials, a few tears, but overall a pretty fun summer. The last of my 4 school aged "children" starts his classes this Wednesday so hopefully I will be doing some major catching up.

2008-05-28T18:11:00.006-06:00

I LOVE MOVIES

So I just realized what many of you probably already knew-They are making a movie Mamma Mia!! I'm so excited!! I saw this production on stage in Las Vegas & I am so excited to see the movie.... How can you go wrong with Pierce Brosnan's accent???

For a link to the trailer click here

2008-05-16T11:03:00.008-06:00

BRANDON IN THE NEWS

No, not nude.....News. This morning as Brandon was driving to work he came upon a car that was turned upside down in the river next to the parking lot at Snowbird.

The Ambulance & Fire Department were just arriving as well. For some reason, this is like the 3rd car this year that has driven off the road up that canyon. The funny part is that the KSL team of photographers must have a knack for finding the cutest butt around! Check this out:

Wow, what a hottie....That would be my husband-Hey, get back to work!!!! He definitely is a "Stop & Gawk" type when it comes to accidents.

Sadly, this seems to happen far too often. The poor families that have to deal with this stuff. That is the one part of Brandon's job that makes me a little nervous. Not only does he gawk at accidents, I don't think he can get enough of the beautiful scenery when he gets out of the city. Luckily he is a very cautious driver. Love you Babe!!!

The developing article, if your interested, can be found here: http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=3319154.

2008-05-01T21:47:00.000-06:00

The past couple of years we have met up with Jess & Wendy & their cute girls to go hiking up Neffs Canyon. We finally got a few rays of sunshine & decided we might be able to make it without sinking in the mud. So off we went.

Laini is always posing for a picture!

Jess and Wendy had to leave early for some other fun to be had. This year we invited Tyler and Calli to come up with us.

I think Calli was in heaven!!!

I just love that we are able to go up to the ski resort and watch sledding action, then go fishing & do some hiking all in the same week!!!

As you can see we still encountered quite a bit of snow, not to mention a few scrapes & bruises (of course). It's so nice to have some great hikes close by so we can just pack up and go and still be back by noon!!!

2008-04-29T21:32:00.001-06:00

It's fishing time again!!! Brandon went up to East Canyon a couple of weeks ago with a friend of ours to set a couple of hooks on the river.

He just loves that he can be there and let other people know who can & CANNOT fish on that river. I think he sorta owns it..... Maybe one day we'll buy a stretch of land on some river bank and then he can have sole ownership.....That would ROCK!!!

2008-04-26T21:20:00.008-06:00

A little over a month ago, I had my last 2 wisdom teeth extracted. I had them in my mouth for over 10 years, but decided that I wanted them out. So, as the day approached I started getting a little nervous...DUH! I had to confess to the dentist, while sitting in the chair, that I was a little nervous. I think he got a good chuckle out of that, young little teeny bopper dentist.....ppppffffhhhhh.....Since when did I get older than the dentist??......Whatever!!! Anyhoo, he proceeded with the numbing & extracting & when he was done I asked to see them.

First of all: GROSS!!!....And secondly: HOLY COW!!! Now I totally know why I've been losing my mind......Every brain cell I have has been going to these oh-so-wise wisdom teeth!!!! I'm hoping I will see an improvement in my mind power now that they are gone.
So, as I was looking at these teeth, I asked the dentist if I could take them home. I'm sure he was thinking "what kind of weirdo is this?"-but then I said "I could totally get at least 50 bucks out of each of those suckers!" He laughed & they packaged them up & informed me not to touch them without a good cleaning first as they harbor bacteria....Great that bacteria can be in my mouth, but I shouldn't touch it with my hands!!!.... Wow, I'm analyzing everything!!! It must have been the medication?? So I discreetly slipped my little package into my purse & went home. I showed the kids & my sweet hubby & informed them all that I fully intend to place them strategically under my pillow......Brandon laughed, I have no idea why??? But, due to his little chuckle I think I'll wait until after the Economic Stimulus checks are sent out...so I have a pretty good chance the ol' tooth fairy will have some bulging pockets!!!!!

I'll let ya know how it turns out!!

2008-04-17T20:49:00.003-06:00

Last Friday morning Brandon & I went with the kids to school an hour early for a family breakfast the PTA was putting on. When we first walked through the door Brandon noticed an image on the wall & immediately, without checking, knew it was Laini's profile.

As we looked closer we noticed there was something sticking out of her forehead! What the heck??? Then we looked at the others around hers. Then we realized they were her lengthy lashes!! Here's a close up:

Wow this girl has really got some long ones-we have always known this, even as an infant they were really long. All of our kids have great lashes.

Since then I've been considering having mine done. I mean, I think they're okay, but isn't there always room for improvement? Anyway, I'm a little nervous so I thought I'd ask some opinions.

What do you think about these:

Or maybe that's too much colorl??? Maybe I'll try these:

Oh, no no-I should get these:

No wait-I think I've found them. I'm so getting these!

Oh, I don't know, maybe that's too extreme.......Well, maybe not ifI were a super model!!!

2008-04-14T22:46:00.007-06:00

5.....4.....3.....2.....1.....BLASTOFF!!!!!

Tonight we went to the 11th annual Daredevil Dummy Downhill at Snowbird. What a riot!!! They served pizza and drinks on the mountain. Everyone is invited, in advance, to participate in constructing a sled, of sorts, to plunge down a ski run with barriers on either side and launch off of a huge ramp made of snow at the end. The contestants are judged on various attributes including speed, air obtained, and distance. Today there were 9 entries and an extra "just-for-fun" entry. The "just-for-fun" entry was an old ski boat that had all the equipment pulled off and was sent down the hill. Each sled has a dummy that is created to ride the sled. One department at the resort built a ship titled "Pirates of Peruvian", Peruvian being one of the runs at the resort. They attached the ship to a couple of skis and it was sent down the hill. One sled was a spring loaded rocking horse and another was literally a shopping cart-both were attached to a sled. Items used to add weight to the sled consisted of baking flour, trash and cans full of beer-to name a few. A couple of sleds didn't get very far and were tossed off the run halfway through. Most launched off the ramp and slammed back to the ground and busted all up in the process-It was quite funny to watch!
Here is a clip of what it was like.

We have really enjoyed being part of the many events that go on at Snowbird. They have tons of activities for employees & their families. The kids get so excited to go up there, because they know it will be such a fun time!!!

2008-04-13T10:36:00.001-06:00

On March 29 Alaina was baptized and confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It was such a beautiful day and I felt the spirit so strong. Alaina has such a beautiful singing voice & wanted to sing 3 musical numbers in her confirmation meeting. We didn't want it to be too long, so we let her sing 2. She sang "I Love to See the Temple"with Xanna and "Love Is Spoken Here"with Braxton.

Alaina was baptized in the same dress I was baptized in, that was made by my mom. I was so excited when my mom had it tucked away with some of my other dresses!!

Alaina was baptized and confirmed by her Dad. How lucky we are to have the Priesthood in our home!!

A gift from her Uncle Tyler & Aunt Carrie-An embroidered towel with this cute little poem on it:

My Baptism Towel

Today you will be baptized

Your sins all washed away

And I will be there waiting

Excited in every way

For I'm a very special towel

With an important job to do

And I will be the one they take

To wrap around you

You can keep me as a reminder

Of this very special day

When you were baptized a member

And your sins were washed away.

We are so proud of the choice she has made to strengthen her relationship with her Heavenly Father and make the covenants that she has made.

Congratulations Laini-I love you!!!!!

2008-04-05T15:17:00.003-06:00

Phew! We made it through March-And what a great month it was!!! So much excitement and fun was had!!! I've realized, however, that nearly every post I compose is at least a week behind... at least. Forgive me for my hectic time sheduling and let me indulge in some fun memories of 3 of my beautiful kids!!

Atticus turned 2 on the 6th. He has been such a fun addition to our family. We once thougth 3 kids would complete our family, but he has filled our home with so much laughter & happiness, I don't know what we would do without him!!

We were amazed at his long body!

A tough start hidden in the "Bili-bed". We called him the little glow worm!

But then he was always grinning!

More grins!

With big sister-Laini.

No grinning here. Took a tumble out of the car. Anesthesia puts you right to sleep.

Cutest little ghost on Halloween with Xanna.

On his birthday this year!

Happy Birthday Atticus!!!

Laini turned 8 on the 8th (hee hee). She is such a caring, sweet person & is always aware of the feelings of those around her. She is a great student & is always eager to please. She is so helpful around the house with everything. Laini is very creative and is always making cute little crafts out of whatever she can find. She has a beautiful singing voice & has a natural ability with gymnastics. I am so happy to have her in our home & part of our family!!

Strawberry Shortcake for Halloween age 2 1/2.

This chick could fall asleep absolutely anywhere.

Cute in curls!

Petite little ballerina.

Posing like a movie star.

With her funky new hairdo!

Pretty little flower girl!

Sweet picture!

On her birthday this year. I think she's pretty excited about the stack of tickets she has. I wonder what she'll buy with them??

Happy Birthday Alaina!!!

Braxton turned 11 on the 30th. Braxton is a very loving and affectionate young man. He has grown up so much the last couple of years and is getting too close to the teenage years, although I think mentally he has been there for some time. Braxton loves to play games & is a great friend. He has written a couple of lyrics to songs & is trying to write the music to go along with them, although Dad will probably have to help him with that part. Braxton loves to read and was in the top 5% in the nation in reading when he was in 3rd grade. He is very smart and excels at nearly everything he tries. He contributes so much to everything we do and I am overjoyed to be able to be his mother and have him in our family !!

First day of kindergarten.

6th birthday at Joe's Crab Shack-his birthday dinner of choice!!

He always knows how to get his own way-look at that lip!!!

Cutest little pilgrim in the place!

Displaying the beautiful butterfly he caught.

Hiking at Snowbird.

Chillin' in a limo.

Hiking with his "Best Bud".

Snowmobiling at East Canyon.

Happy Birthday Braxton!!!

Of all the things I love to do.....I love being a mother the most!!

2008-03-25T20:31:00.000-06:00

And it's back to the slopes! Here are the Mighty "Little" Men hitting it hard on another day at the slopes.

They go......

.....and go.....

.....and go!

What a HOTTIE!!!

2008-03-23T13:40:00.013-06:00

Who knows what Grandma Larsen eggs are? Well at our house we all know. Growing up my husband, many know him as Brandon, spent many a Saturday night sleeping over at his Grandma Larsen's house. And spent many a Sunday morning eating the now famous, well in our house, Grandma Larsen eggs sitting next to Grandma Larsen herself. Well, with the abundance of hard boiled eggs around this time of year, it is an excellent time for making Grandma Larsen eggs. As we make the eggs we are reminded of the times that have been spent with Grandma and the memories that were made. All of these thoughts bring to mind how fortunate we are to have a Savior that was resurrected so that each of us can live again. And how blessed we are that we can be Eternal families & live together again.

You might call them something else, but we call them Grandma Larsen Eggs.

Grandma Larsen Eggs
Hard boiled eggs
Butter, to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste

Peel and chop eggs (discarding shells, of course :-)) and place in microwave safe bowl. Add butter and mix. Microwave on high approximately 1-2 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.

This is delicious over toast as well.

2008-03-20T22:42:00.004-06:00

So I've been fishing through some of Brandon's photos checking for things that apply to the posts I'm working on & I found this adorable video of Atticus.
Holy cow-He's just the sweetest little thing!
Anyway, I had to share it.

He really is a smart "Little" cookie! You wouldn't believe the vocabulary on this kid that just barely turned 2 years old!

2008-03-13T22:51:00.000-06:00

Birthdays! Birthdays! And more birthdays! March gets going & never stops with birthdays. I think that nearly every mother has had or was a March baby! We have 4 kids & 3 of the 4 were born in March. Hmmmm. Not to mention the aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, parents, grandparents, etc. that are celebration birthdays in March. 2 of the 3 that were born in March were born on a relative's birthday. And 1 of them had a due date on another relative's birthday, but was born on a different day. So needless to say, we've already had our fair share of birthday cake this month & it's not even half over. We celebrated Atticus & Laini's birthdays at Fat Cats and had pizza from Pizza Factory. This is such a fun place for the kids to go & they had such a fun time. Braxton took Atticus for a ride on the motorcycle.
Who knew if you were less than 3 feet tall you could actually get the Ski Ball in the highest scoring hole? Go Atticus!!
Braxton will be 11 on March 30. I think we may have to have cheesecake or something!!

2008-03-12T20:31:00.024-06:00

Braxton hasn't been snowboarding much the last few years because he broke his wrist right before the season ended a couple of years ago & he hasn't gone out much since. So sad!

But, wouldn't you think that as a family member of an employee of a major ski resort you would spend a good portion of your time in the winter skiing or snowboarding? Well, Braxton got his first run of the season last Thursday.
Contrary to how the photos look, I think he did spend a fair amount of time upright, in fact, he informed me that he got to go down a "black diamond" run. WOOHOO! I guess that's what you get when you have a thrill-seaking Dad! If Mom was there, we'd have stayed on the bunny hill, and I would have spent most of the time on my rear end.
I guess they had a great time & Brandon has now committed to at least 2 days a week taking in a few runs on the slope for the remainder of the season.
I think we have the makings of a pro snowboarder in our midst-What a cutie!!! Sorry Braxton, but you are! Love ya!

2008-02-23T17:31:00.014-07:00

We live in an area that overlooks the valley toward the west. The view is beautiful.

Periodically my 2 daughters ages 6 & 7 and I will drive a little farther up the hill to a Junior High school. We park in the parking lot and watch the sun setting. It's such a fun thing to do and we've had many fun times. In the summer, the girls will get out of the car and dance around on the lawn and just play and have fun. Once the sun gets close to disappearing behind the mountain, they get back in the car and we just sit and watch until the last little sliver of the sun is gone. Then we gaze at the beautiful colors that are cast into the sky behind the mountains. It's crazy the thoughts that come into mind from such pretty things in our world.

It is this that brought me to my presidency message for Primary last Sunday. This year the theme in Primary is "I am a Child of God" . As I have thought about ways to help the children comprehend that they truly are children of God, I decided that if they can liken the love their parents feel for them to the love their Heavenly Father feels for them, maybe they will have a better understanding. So, for the message on Sunday I took some pictures from the Gospel Art Kit.

Picture 100 "Creation-Living Creatures"

Picture 325 "The Gold Plates"

Picture 600 "The World"

Picture 605 "Young Boy Praying"

Picture 613 "Administering to the Sick"

Picture 616 "Family Togetherness"

These are the ones that I took as well as a picture of President Monson. I went through each picture asking the kids what it was & what they thought about it, etc. I asked if they could identify any similarities in the different pictures. In the end I told them that each of these represents a gift from our Heavenly Father and that when we see these gifts we can think of our Heavenly Father and how much he truly loves each of us. Of course, by this time, I was choking on my stupid tears-as always-but I think it was helpful for the kids to be able to think of these things as a symbol of the love our Heavenly Father has for us.

So, when I was talking to my mother-in-law Sunday afternoon, she mentioned that she had given the Relief Society lesson that day. I asked her if she saves all of her lessons, because she always puts so much thought and preparation into them & has the cutest handouts, too. I'm sure one day I will have need for a few Relief Society lessons and it would be oh-so-nice to have some great ideas to go on. Anyhow, this is why I decided to share my message with you. It is always nice to have some ideas even if they aren't so perfectly fabulous.

As my girls and I have sat in our car overlooking the view, we have had many discussions of things in the world-good and bad-but in the end we see the beautiful sunset and think of the next day that is before us. And know that each day we have is a gift from God and our Heavenly Father.

In the past I have taken pictures of the girls with my camera phone, but this time I made an extra effort to take my real camera, not only to post on this blog, but also to have for memories. This day was a little overcast with many clouds that obstructed some of the view, however, the moisture the clouds bring is needed for the beautiful flowers blooming in spring. We won't always be within 3 minutes of this view, but I want to have those memories close by.

2008-02-10T00:56:00.000-07:00

So I think this may be a bad thing. I've been working on my cute little blog for only a few hours (my how the time flies by). I take a trip downstairs & you'll never guess what I found. Obviously, I have been spending WAY too much time with this blog thing.

What do you think???

Just kidding-Thank heaven this is not my kids' room!!! At least not today.

2008-02-04T19:55:00.000-07:00

It was Thursday morning at 2:36 AM and I was awoken by a fretting husband who is apparently in excruciating pain. By 3:30 AM he is doubled over and strongly suggests a visit to the ER is in order. While a visit to the ER in the middle of the night isn't exactly what you want to do, at least the waiting room isn't filled with people coughing until they nearly vomit, or sleeping with their feet up on the couch as if it is their home. We were taken right in & told that "Women have babies & men have kidney stones." The entertainment that night was nearly a pole dance (minus the pole and robed in an "oh-so-sexy" hospital gown) by my husband. The nurses had seen the dance before and, matter of factly, informed us that he most likely had a Kidney stone. After 3 blown blood veins, the second male nurse got the IV going & we were back on our way to sleepful bliss. A CT scan confirmed the diagnosis & we were sent home at 6:00 AM with funnels in which to catch the wayward stone. After 4 days (and nights) of dry heaves, heating pads, prescription refills, home remedies, massages, phone calls to the poor on-call doctor and another x-ray, my husband has given birth to a disgusting brown KIDNEY STONE!!! There will most likely be no surgery needed at this point & hopefully the future looks bright.

2008-02-04T19:44:00.000-07:00

Okay, so every now and again I cave to Peer Pressure. Yes, I am an adult female 32 years of age & I have given in to peer pressure. The other night at a birthday party listening to everyone discuss everyone else's "BLOGS", I felt like I had been missing out on all of the fun. However, as an employed & married mother of 4 with a "pampered pooch", I was a little overwhelmed just thinking about the task. Nonetheless, I have entered the world of fellow bloggers. So please, bare with me while I scamper through this unexplored terrain. Hopefully it will be a fun adventure, as I am always looking in that direction!!!