Bestie...

Today is your birthday shout "Hooray!"

We wanna sing to you today.

One year older and prettier too,

I love playing Ticket to Ride. Sometimes we play with teams and I love it when Bestie and I are on the same team. We think so much alike and are so insync we kick trash! In the above picture we weren't playing teams.

Happy Birthday, To You!

Happy Birthday Cutie! So glad we're friends - my sista from anotha mista!

Happy Birthday to ME!!!

I had a great birthday last week. Because my in-laws were going to be out of town on Tuesday, we went to their house for cake and ice-cream on Sunday evening. It was great. Mister's parents gave me a nifty gift card, his one sister gave me a way cute purse and wallet and his other sister gave me a book and a drawing of Lewlew. She has drawn a picture of Mister and each of my kids and they are, in a word, precious. I never walk past them that I don't look at them. Sometimes, even after having a couple of them for years, I stop and really look at them. They really are incredible.

On Tuesday - my actual birthday, we went over to Bestie's house for dinner and fun. We ate steak, salads, veggies and dip and chips and dip. It was so yummy! There was quite a crowd and no small amount of laugher. After dinner, Mister and Mr. Bestie played "No Bears Are Out Tonight" with the kids. The kids had such a great time. Then we all played "Red Light/Green Light." The neighbors probably hated us for all the noise we made - but it was worth it! Bestie's bday is just around the corner. I can't wait to do it all again!

Then Mac gave the kids a ride on his bike. Here he is with Noodle,

And Buddy,




And Lewlew. She was probably the most excited! He even gave me a ride but I chose NOT to post that picture!











Mac decided he needed to tighten something so Lewlew was his helper. I think, I'm not sure, but I think Lewlew has a tiny crush on Mac. O how I wish I could stop him from aging and save him for Lewlew. I would love for either one of my girls to marry a guy like Mac. He's one of the best!

Lewlew didn't even falter in her helping duties. She waited right next to him holding all his tools and gloves until he was finished. Then Mac thanked Lew for helping him by giving her a squeeze. It really was a sweet thing to watch.

Double Digets!!

Isn't it crazy how time flies?? 10 years ago today, I became a mom. Buddy was born at 3:30 in the afternoon. The hospital papers say he weighed 8 lbs 10 oz. But his birth certificate says 8 lbs 9 oz. Anyway - he sure was a cutie!! It sure doesn't seem like it was 10 years ago!!! He is still VERY tender hearted and doesn't ever want anyone left out and doesn't want to hurt feelings. He exceptionally knowledgeable about animals. He's had such a difficult time with his back, but we got him into a very good chiropractor (that is VERY reasonably priced) and he's going SO much better. He's like a new kid. He also got braces in March and had them off in October. He now wears a retainer and likes that much better! He starts Webelo scouts today. He received his Bear award a few months ago. He enjoys scouts and that couldn't make his dad prouder! It must be in his blood! Tonight he has chosen to go to Nickel City to celebrate his birthday. So we'll be meeting the rest of the family there for some fun. We love Buddy so much and are so grateful he's apart of our family!

Can it be??

It can't possible be 5 years already. I checked the birth certificate and did the math. Then I had Bret and my mom check my math. Yep, Lewlew is 5 years old today. It's almost unbelievable to me. I see pictures of her when she was 3 and I think that is her today. Where has the time gone?? She is very excited to not be 4 anymore. She woke up very happy today (not a surprise - she's a morning kid). Everyone she has talked to, she has been VERY excited and louder than usual. We are going to "McDonald's with the slide" for dinner tonight. As for me? I've know this day was coming and yet I still shed a few tears. I can't really pinpoint why I'm emotional. I guess it's a combo of a lot of things. *A good friend of mine has a friend who just lost their 3 year old to inoperable brain cancer. *Lewlew wasn't supposed to be my baby. *I feel like the time is going by so fast and I'm missing so much. *Not only are my kids getting older, but so am I! *We are moving into a new era of our lives and I'm not sure I'm ready to leave this one. However, there are advantages to having older younger kids. Camping is SO much easier! Going to the store, or anywhere for that matter, is much easier and faster. They can all put on their own coats and shoes, etc. NO DIAPERS!!!! I do have almost 2 hours to myself Tues thru Fri. Sometimes that's not such a good thing, but most of the time it is. They are bigger helpers now - but not as much as I'd like them to be :)
To summarize, it doesn't matter how I feel, Lewlew is still 5 today, Austin will be 10 in a month and Emma will be 8 in 4 months. Time still moves on. I am grateful for all of them. They truly are my blessings!

Bestie's Birthday!!

Happy Birthday Bestie!! 50 and still going strong!

WOW!!! 50 seems sorta old, but it just doesn't seem like you're this old! (Seriously!)

Here are just 50 of my favorite things about Bestie:

~She likes to talk and we talk everyday - sometimes for just a few minutes, sometimes for hours - literally

~She's a great organizer and decorator

~She's ALWAYS willing to help - no matter what

~We think so alike - sometimes it's eerie

~My kids call her "Super Aunt Val"

~No matter what she's been through, she always rises above

~She has SUCH a strong testimony

~She is a Wonderful example

~She has great advise

~She's humble

~She's forgiving

~She LOVES my kids

~She's a Terrific mom

~She's cute

~She's one of the busiest people I know, but amazingly she always has time

~She's generous

~She's thoughtful

~She's patient

~She's smart

~She's sassy

~She has style

~She's willing to do or try almost anything

~She's not judgemental

~She has amazing endurance

~We are great friends even though there's a gap in our ages

~She doesn't act like she's 50 - but then when I think about how old her kids are and some of the things she's been through, she is very much 50.

~It seems like we've been life-long friends

~She's a great wife

~She's good at whatever she does

~She does nothing half way

~She's has inspiration and is inspiring

~She's an answer to prayer

~She always looks put together - One time I stopped by her house and she was just getting out of her car from doing yard work for her mother-in-law. She was sweaty, but her hair and make-up still looked good.

~She's SUCH a great sister - she has weird family dinamics, but that doesn't stop her from being a great sister

~She has great recipes!!

~She usually attends the temple once a week

~She's sentimental

~She does great nails

~We seem to never run out of things to say

~She's happy - there have been numerous times when we have laughed so hard our stomach was sore the next day

~She's fun

~She has great hair

~She's a great Primary President. She's always on top of things

~She collects Raggedy Ann and Andy

~She likes and has an eye for antiques

~She has an AMAZING voice. She sings so beautifully pure. It's really hard to describe unless you've heard her.

~She is content with what she has

~She's a mover and a shaker - she's fast. I'm still a little amazed when I watch her clean or something. It's done before I can even get out the broom. She runs from point A to point B and hurries once she gets there - but when we are doing a project, I never feel rushed. It just gets done quickly.

49~She almost ALWAYS gives people the benefit of the doubt.

~She is the best friend ever. I don't know what I did before we met or what I'd ever do without her.

Have the best birthday ever - you certainly deserve it!!! With much love.....

I Can't Believe It!!

Well, my little man, Buddy, turns 9 today at 3:35 p.m. I went into labor with him at about midnight. And the pain got really intense, really fast. So about 3:00 am we got to the hospital. My contractions were spiking high on the monitor but I was only dilated to a 2. So they monitored me for an hour and then called my doc. At 4:00 the contractions were still spiking high but I hadn't dilated any more. So my doc said to give me some Demerol and watch me for another hour. After the hour I was at a 3, so they admitted me and gave me an epidural. I dilated all the way to a 5 and stayed there from 10 A.M. to 1 P.M. when my doc came in. Because the baby's heart beat seemed to be dropping a little and his vitals were starting to dip and I wasn't dilating, we decided to do a C-section. Finally at 3 P.M. I was in the O.R. and I was ready for them to open me up. When they started, I could feel - alot. So they hurried and put me all the way out and quickly opened me up. Well Buddy was posterior with his head looking up. He never engaged down the birth canal. So they tried to pull him out and he wouldn't come. According to my family who was watching from the window, one doc got up on the table and reached in for Buddy and pulled, pulling me off the table about 6 inches. YIKES!!! Glad I was out for that. But fortunately, we recorded everything on a mini tape recorder. While I was still out, a lady came to the hospital nursery and happened to catch Bret as he was going in. She told him she needed a child's cry for their ward party that night and could she record our child's cry. Tears come to my eyes as I think about our sweet little baby "playing" Jesus for in a ward nativity. He had just left Jesus' arms. WOW, that seems just like yesterday. Fast forward 9 years - Not quite as sweet as he was. He can certainly be a challenging child - but those challenges bring great rewards! His favorite color is orange and he loves animals - especially dogs and tigers. He knows SO much about them - he knows a lot about animals in general! When ever we see a "stray" dog, Buddy wants to pick it up and help find it's home. "It's the right thing to do, Mom." Sometimes we do, but mostly we don't. Most dogs have a tag and find their home fast. He's in the 3rd grade. He doesn't hate school, but given a choice, he'd rather stay home. He's doing ok in school. His teacher says he's a joy to have in class. She "NEVER has to get after him and he's so well mannered." He doesn't like to wear ties to church and still wants to take toys with him. We're trying to break him of that. He's the best son and big brother in the world - when he want to be! We sure love him and are very thankful for the part he plays in our family. Happy 9th Birthday, Buddy!!

4??? Are you sure?

Today my baby is 4. I can't believe it. I keep thinking she's only 3. I have to say I'm quite emotional about the whole thing. I'm just not ready to have her be 4. I feel like I didn't treasure every moment, because I thought we'd have at least one more. So now that it looks like we aren't, I feel like I've missed so many things. Lewlew is so different from Austin and Emma. She's quite her own. She's also different when Austin and Emma aren't here. She's much more clingy and less whiney. I love the time we have alone. She LOVES flavored chips. I think Dorito's are her favorite, but it might be Pringles. She LOVES chocolate milk. She has MANY Polly Pockets and plays with them everyday. Her lastest "phase" is Strawberry Cake - a.k.a. Strawberry Shortcake. She likes doing things with her hands. Lately she's loved puzzles. We put together puzzles several times a day. She likes Darby, Pooh, Tigger, and Piglet, Hannah Montana, Scooby Doo, and playing the "puter." Her voice sounds like she just took a hit of helium and she talks really fast. She's really sweet and I'm so thankful to have her.

Here are a few pictures of Lewlew through 2009.

A Great Day

This is for my wonderful hubby!

Happy Birthday Hunny!! I love you!

Happy Birthday Dad! We love you so much!!

Great Day

A big shout out to my mom today!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM!! YOU'RE THE BEST!!!

Birthday

A week ago on June 7 was my birthday. The day before, we went to the Mayan in SLC with all of Hubs' family. It was great! On Sunday, we went to Bestie's house for dinner. MMM it was good. The picture is the cake she baked for me. I got lots of great stuff, but more than anything it was just nice and relaxing. I got to spend time with family and friends and it was nice. A BIG thanks to everyone for everything!

Happy Birthday Noodle

Noodle 6 weeks old

Noodle is 6 today and is growing up so fast. She loves pink, Hannah Montana, singing, dancing, playing with her friends, pretending and helping. She is very smart and so grown up. Sometimes when I talk to her, it's like talking to a 12 year old and in the next minute she's playing like an 8 year old. She is my extra eyes and ears. She keeps me posted on the happenings at our house, school, family and church. Her teacher uses her as a little helper. She finishes her work and then gets to help others. She is always going to the office for her teacher. The other day a guy asked Noodle if she knew her ABC's. She looked at him and said, "yes." Then he asked her what came after Z. She looked up at him with the most rediculous look and said, "nothing." (Using her "duh" tone of voice) She's got beautiful blue eyes and l o n g eye lashes. Her hair is a pretty brown with some natural curl- which she is letting grow out. She's quite opinionated and at times drives her dad nuts. There are so many times when Bret just doesn't know what to do with her. But if you sit down and talk to her, almost like an adult, you'll get pretty far with her. She says I am her best friend and I love that. About 6 weeks ago, she asked Bret if he knew Santa's phone number. Bret said no. Then she said, "Well how did you call him at Christmastime?" Uhhhhh. She just so quick and puts things together. Nothing gets by her. For all of this and SO very much more, I love my sweet Noodle.

Noodle 17 Mar 2009

Happy Birthday Buddy!!

Buddy 6 weeks old

My first born in 8 years old today!! Sheesh!!! Where has the time gone. 2 years ago, Hubs and I walked to the church to attended a baptism of a friend of ours. That day we said that in just 2 short years we'd be doing the same thing for Buddy. Little did I know just how short these last 2 years have been. He was the absolute BEST early Christmas present ever. It brings tears to my eyes to see him, to see how big he is, to watch him with his sisters, to see him participate in FHE and Primary, to see him help his dad. He is such a sweet, tender young man. Buddy has such a special relationship with his Nana and I wouldn't change that for anything. He's in 2nd grade, loves Transformers and is quite good with the computer. (His favorite sites are Ebay and You Tube.) His favorite color is orange and he likes going to the cabin and playing with Zach. I'm so thankful for Buddy and the part he plays in our lives. Happy Birthday Buddy!

Buddy Oct 2008 - Almost 8 years old

PS He's going to be baptized Sat. For more info, leave a comment and I'll get back to you.

Lewlew is 3!

Happy Birthday Sweet Baby Girl!!

Lewlew - the day she come home from the hospital. She was

so beautiful. She had great color and wasn't wrinkely and

absolutly NO cone head what so ever. Thank you C-section!

Lewlew and Mom - Avrie 6 weeks old

This is one of my very favorite pictures. I wish I had a

black top on though. Look at her rolls!

Lewlew 1 year old

I love her mouth in this picture. I reminds me of my

Grandpa Bud.

Lewlew 2 years old

Just look at her Budda Belly and pig tails. Her

hair really grew a lot from year 1 to year 2.

Lewlew 3 years old

Look at her grin. Pure sweetness or is it orneriness?

I made this dress as a model garment for Emma a

couple years ago.

I cannot believe your 3. The years have gone by WAY to fast. I had to stop and think about it to make sure you are really turning 3 and not 2. I know you're not a baby anymore, but you'll always be my baby. It took a long time getting you here, but we've enjoyed you every second. I'm SO glad you're apart of our family. You have brought much joy and love and laughter to our home. You are so dang sweet! You are either smiling or crying. I love when you like to snuggle with me. I love your hugs and kisses. I love your sweet voice. I just love you!!

Happy Birthday, Mister!

Today, the 19th, is Mister's birthday. He is 33 years YOUNG!!

When I asked Buddy what his favorite thing about his dad is, this is what he had to say:

"I like when we play tackle. I like when he transforms my transformers. I like when play action figures and dinosaurs together. I like when he helps me with my homework. When I grow up I want to be just like my Daddy. I love you Dad!"

This is what Noodle said:

"I like to play tackle. I like him to push me on

the swing. I like when he reads me a story and

then snuggles with me. I like when he plays horsey. I love for Dad to carry me. I also like him to tickle me. He's the best dad!"

Lewlew sorta said:

"I like to play 'Daddy the Human Slide.' I like when he carries me on his feet. I like to have him push me on the swing and chase me. I like when he sings the "Whopdedooper" song. I just love him!!

Before I met Mister, I didn't think there were any guys like him left. I thought I could find a good enough guy, but to actually find one of "those" guys that "other people" talked about was not even a distant hope for me. Imagine my surprise when we started dating. There was at least one of them left. Yipee!!! Marring him was probably the best thing I've ever done. Our life hasn't been perfect (is there such a thing) but I've never been unhappy. He is very considerate and kind to others, especially his loved ones. He has a strong testimony of the gospel. He's one heck of a husband and a terrific dad to our kids. My life would just not be complete without him. Before this gets too mushy, I love you, Hunny. Happy Birthday!!

The bottom picture is during one of Hubs' many Karate tournament. He eventually earned a second degree black belt. He also earned his Eagle Scout when he was 14. You wouldn't know it now because he keeps his hair so short but he still has really curly hair. Thankfully a little was passed on to our girls.

Happy Birthday, Mom!!

Tuesday, the 16th, was my mom's birthday. I'm a little late posting because I've been sick - again! Anyway her sister came from Colorado. As a family we went on the Heber Creeper and Mom and Aunt Kate spent the days driving and visiting. It was so fun for my mom. Thanks for coming Aunt Kate!

Besides Bret, my mom is my best friend. She's always been there for me - even when I wasn't at my best. She has a strong testimony of the gospel and lives her religion. She's very caring and giving and compassionate and humble. When I was growing up, it was just the 2 of us most of the time. Several times I asked her to "borrow" money. She would go to her purse and literally give me the last $5 or $10 she had. She gave service all the time. She went back to college and graduated in three years with a BA and was on the dean's list

every semester. She's awesome! She's been a fabulous mom and she's

a fantastic Nana. I don't know what I would do without her. I'm so very thankful she lives with us. We love her and wish her a very happy 60th birthday!

I'm not sure how old she was in the baby picutre. But the picture of her in the blue sweater was her senior picture. The other one she was 26 years old.

Wasn't she pretty?? I mean once you take away the big hair and outdated clothes.