Just a moment...

Happy Birthday

2011-01-05T13:14:00.000-08:00

I can't believe you are one my sweet, little monkey. You have brought so much happiness and joy into our life this past year. You are one spoiled little man and get the love of your mommy, daddy, and sisters all day. I don't think we'd have it any other way!

Daddy's Boots

2010-12-14T18:00:00.000-08:00

"I can't wait to fit in these!"

These were Jim's cowboy boots when he was little. Ashtyn wears them now when they go over to the horses. Daddy always has a huge smile on his face when he sees her wear them. He never thought he'd have a son to pass them down to, but now he can't wait 'til Kian fills them out! That will be a very proud day for Daddy!

Aaahhh......

2010-12-13T16:32:00.000-08:00

Isn't he the most handsome little boy you've ever seen?
I can't believe he's already 11 months.

I might be in depression the next few months.

Please stay little...Please stay my baby...Please don't grow up!

We're Back.......

2010-10-18T21:24:00.000-07:00

My Firstborn...

2010-06-08T16:29:00.000-07:00

Wow! I can't believe my little girl is 8 today. Happy Birthday Ashtyn! You have brought so much joy and love into my life. I have always thought of you as my angel and "reward" for enduring some of the trials I've had. You changed me from the first day I found out I was pregnant, and my heart will always hold a special spot full of love just for you. You were such a happy, good-natured baby and have been the best 1st child anyone could ask for. I know you are growing up so fast and are already into fashion, friends, boys, and want a cell phone (will never happen!!), but could you please keep some of your innocence and sweet nature before this scary world takes it away! You are such a christ-like, compassionate girl who loves others and easily feels their pain. You are so willing to help and reach out in kindness to others. Your teacher even picked you as the kindest girl in the class this year. Your sisters adore you; your friends all want to be around you, and your mommy and daddy couldn't love you more! I hope you have a wonderful 8th year!

As for this guy....

2010-05-17T22:11:00.000-07:00

I don't think it's possible for a mother to love her child more than I love my little man. He is 4 months now and absolutely adorable. I am totally eating him up and spending most of my days just snuggling and playing with him. He is such a good baby: very laid back, happy, and hardly every cries (just whines a little!). He is the most smiley, playful baby I've had and has been laughing so much lately. We've had so many people tell us what a smiley baby he is cuz he seriously smiles all day, and it's the kind that shows all over his face (dimples and in his eyes). I sometimes forget he is still a little baby cuz he loves to be rolled around on the floor and fly in the air. Maybe it's just because he's a boy, but I am definitely "playing" with him more than I did with my girls at this age (you know "girls are fragile; boys are rough and tumble").

I thought he was a pretty chunky baby, but at almost 4 1/2 months, he is only in the 20% percentile weighing in at 13.6 lbs and is 25 inches long (48%). So he's actually quite a little guy but still has the squishy fat on his thighs that I love to kiss and tickle. Seriously, is there anything better?

Kian absolutely loves his sisters and will smile at them the most. He saves his most smiley, sincere, genuine smile for them and it brings tears to my eyes when he interacts with the girls. He's happy to be held by any of them, which is good since one of them is always wanting him. He loves attention and as long as someone is talking to him or looking at him, he is totally happy! (Uh oh, do you think we are spoiling him too much?)

He has been sleeping great and is getting on a more consistent schedule. He goes to bed around 9 and usually sleeps til 4-5 (sometimes 6!!!!) and then goes right back to bed til 7:30-8. There are times when I have to get up to put his binky in but it's usually during the first hour he goes to bed and then he's fine for the rest of the night. He loves to take naps in his car seat and can usually be found taking his morning/evening nap in the car seat, in the laundry room, with the fan on. (Hey, with the 4th kid whatever works, right?)

He is a great eater and loves his bottle. He doesn't care if it's cold, warm, formula, breastmilk, different from what he's used to; he just eats and doesn't complain-unless it runs out and he hasn't had enough. Then he makes the cutest little whine and starts kicking his feet until he gets more!

I am absolutely, totally, head-over-heels in love with this little man and if I could freeze him at this age, I would for the rest of my life. He could just be my doll that I would play with like a child! Couldn't have asked for a sweeter, happier, more adorable baby that has totally melted his family's heart. I am thankful every moment for the son I never thought I'd have or need.

Happy (late) Birthday Avery!

2010-05-17T21:36:00.000-07:00

Can't believe my baby is 4! Avery has been the baby for the past 4 years and we have completely doted on her. She has been such a fun kid with a spunky, fireball of a personality that makes her even cuter. She is the most grown-up 4 yr-old I know and can't believe how much older she seems when she is around other kids her age. Maybe it's because she's been around Jordyn all day, every day since she's been born and they seem like twins. They have the same friends and go to the same preschool class so sometimes I forget she isn't 5 like the rest of them! We've thouroughly enjoyed this kid and love her to pieces! Happy late birthday-sorry mommy can't keep up and post on your actual bday!

Jordyn and Avery got to have their 1st friend party this year and were looking forward to it for so long. The girls loved it, but it was quite interesting having 11 little girls in the house all at once (lot's of whining and competition: "my turn, my turn", "I want to be first", "it's not fair that she won", "I want a prize", etc.). Girls are definitely emotional and I think Jordyn and Avery picked up on it cuz they finally said, "it doesn't matter who wins, we can still have fun" and "let's all be nice". Maybe my teaching efforts are getting through!

They both got new bikes (Barbie and Princess of course!) and have been riding them everyday since. They are both growing up way too fast and for the most part, are the best of friends!

Happy Birthday!!!

2010-04-24T15:25:00.000-07:00

My sweet little Jordy is now 5! I can't believe how grown up she is. She is the most loving creature I've ever seen and just wants to love and kiss people all day. She will give up anything to make someone happy (even her sisters) and loves to help mommy. She is my most obedient child and is the first one to mind the first time I ask. She is absolutely gorgeous inside and out! I'm a horrible mommy and haven't had my kids' pics taken in almost 2 years so this picture is a couple years old but she's gotten even more beautiful. We love you sweet girl!!!

Just keeps getting better!!

2010-03-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

First a quick catch up on my little man. Is it possible for me to love him any more than I do? He is a total mama's boy and I am just eating it up! He is the most playful baby I've had so far and loves to carry on conversations with anyone who will listen (but especially me!). He started smiling and cooing at three weeks and hasn't stopped. I think he knows he has to get his voice in now because his sisters never stop talking. He smiles with his whole face and it keeps me mesmerized. He has the cutest dimples on each side that make me melt! I couldn't even watch American Idol last week because he "talked" to me for 45 minutes straight and I couldn't look away. My cheeks hurt from smiling back and I kept getting teary-eyed cause he's so dang cute and I love him so much.

Don't get me wrong, he definitely has his fussy moments and hasn't been sleeping the greatest the past two weeks, but usually as long as he's with me, he's pretty happy. Which can get annoying and frustrating since I don't get a lot done lately. I've had 3 piles of laundry to fold on the couch for 3 days, another 1 on my bed, and all of the girls' upstairs sitting in the baskets getting wrinkly. I'm getting tired of having to walk in my towel across the house to get my "underwear" out of the dryer each morning. But oh well-I'm determined to enjoy this little guy to the fullest since Jim is dead set that he is our last one (sniff, sniff!).

Kian adores his sisters and usually smiles at them whenever they look at him. He talks to Ashtyn and Avery and loves to listen to Jordyn's sweet voice. He likes to cry for daddy and only stops when Jim feeds him! Don't worry daddy, Kian is just giving me his time right now cuz he knows he'll be playing with you for the rest of his life!

Kian is growing so fast and even though he is only 11 weeks (today), he looks and acts like a 4 month old. I've had so many people comment on how alert he is and how big he is! I am definitely feeling a little jipped since he only seemed newborn for a week! His growth has been so different from my girls and he definitely loves his food! True boy! At 9 weeks, he weighed 11 pounds and was 23 inches long! I can't believe he grew 4 inches in 2 months! I'm sad because all of the adorable clothes I bought and spent WAY too much money on, he has only worn a couple of times and is outgrowing them so fast. Which is why I'm trying to convince Jim we need another one in a couple of years!

All in all-we are totally in love with our little man and I'm afraid he's going to get spoiled from having 4 mommies and 1 proud papa! We are all smitten with him and I think his little plan of getting us all wrapped around his finger is working!

Baby Blues

2010-02-23T20:24:00.000-08:00

No I don't mean the depression type of blues; I mean Kian's big beautiful blue eyes. They are enough to keep anyone from depression. I absolutely love this little guy's deep blue eyes. They are really big when he's content and just hanging out, and they get really squinty and rainbow shaped when he smiles. So adorable!

He started smiling at 3 weeks old and cooing shortly after that. His cooes are the cutest thing ever because they are so soft and gentle. He works up his whole face and body to get out the tiniest sound-love this stage! As long as his tummy isn't hurting, he is pretty happy, but he's had a couple of rough weeks trying to figure out his sensitive tummy and not going potty regurlarly (any suggestions to help a baby poop?). It makes me so sad to see him in pain, especially cuz he tries to be so tough and smiles right in the middle of cringing. He is definitely a mama's boy and I couldn't be any happier cuz I am pretty whooped myself. Yes, anyone that wants to say "I told you so" has my permission for all the times I said I didn't think I ever wanted a boy. Kian has totally proved me wrong!

And by the way, who says dressing a boy isn't fun? I went a little overboard with the shopping and am having a hard time dressing him in everything before he outgrows it. This kid has as many clothes as his sisters! I forget how fast newborns grow and am so sad he no longer looks newborn. I wish he would stay this small forever so I could always have a doll to play with!

Kian's Blessing

2010-02-18T16:45:00.000-08:00

Kian had a beautiful blessing day surrounded by family who adores him. He looked so cute in his little sweater outfit (even though the hat was huge!!) and was a good boy all day (except during the blessing of course!!). Jim gave him a wonderful blessing that I hope will guide his life and at the end, one very proud daddy held him up for all to see just like on Lion King when Mufasa held up Simba on the rock-very funny and touching. I love Kian's kissable cheeks-he looks like he has a small apple in each one and I can't leave them alone!

I am definitely in love with this little guy and am so thankful to all my family and Jim's family that were there to show there love and support. It was great to have Jolea and Calli's family here for the morning (wish it was all day!) and to have all the cousins together.

Happy little family! I'm so sad we didn't get a picture with all of us including the girls. I actually curled all of their hair and they looked so cute in their Christmas dresses. They were too excited that their cousins were at church to pose for a picture, but they are all in love with their brother and proud to show him off.

(I never realize how short I am until I see a picture of me standing by Jim-I even have heels on my boots!)

Farewell Ellie

2010-02-10T20:47:00.000-08:00

After much debate and even more thought, we decided to give Ellie to a new family last week. She was turning into such a great dog (training well, very obedient, good natured, not a barker, learning some tricks) so it was a very hard decision. It pretty much came down to us feeling guilty that she spent most of the time in her kennel-mainly in her dog house because of the cold. With a newborn and 3 other kids to take care of, a husband who travels, no fence, and me not wanting a dog in the house, I just couldn't give her the time she deserved out of the kennel. Jim doesn't even get home 'til dark so he did what he could after work but we felt it wasn't enough. A nice family in Victor was really interested in her and fell in love when they met her, so Jim and the girls drove her to Victor last week to her new home. It was a very emotional day for all of us-definitely harder than I thought to let her go. I cried, Jim cried, and Ashtyn sobbed for two days (nothing harder for a mom than to see her child heartbroken). I almost changed my mind at the last minute.

The only reason we felt okay about the decision is that her new family lives on 30 acres right on the way to Jackson. She will be able to run to her little heart's content and interact with another dog, horses, cats, and chickens. They also have 3 older kids who are the perfect age for playing with her and helping take care of her. They are even going to let her sleep in the son's room next to his bed. Much better than being stuck in a kennel and sleeping in a crate in the garage. We can also come visit her whenever we want or whenever we head to Jackson, which we usually do a few times a year. All in all, I think it was the best decision!

We will definitely miss her and it's pictures like these that bring tears to my eyes knowing that Ashtyn had to give her dog up. We will probably never find a cuter dog-her white polka dotted feet and white tummy are adorable! Word to the wise: before getting a pet, make sure and weigh every option/situation before making a decision (especially at the fair). I had a moment of weakness seeing how much Jim and Ashtyn fell in love with her as a puppy and it ended up causing a lot of heartbreak by getting attached and having to give her away. I'm so proud of Ashtyn for making an unselfish decision in giving Ellie a better life and making it through something so hard at her age. She definitely loved her first dog!

My Little Man!

2010-01-27T16:32:00.000-08:00

Just some pics of my sweet little guy! (out of order of course-the last one is of him just a couple days old)

Kian is absolutely adorable and stealing all of our hearts. I'm afraid he's going to be one spoiled boy because we all love him so much. He has a pretty content personality and is a wonderful sleeper so far. This past week has been a little rough because of his circumcision, but he is getting better and happier as each day comes.

He loves to be wrapped tight to sleep and snuggled on mommy's chest. We are loving all of the snuggly blankets he has since he is my only winter baby.

He loves his ocean bouncy chair with the vibration and "white noise" on. He doesn't like his swing (poor me)!

He thinks he is starving the past few days and has been eating every two hours. He should only be eating about 1 1/2 ounces for his age but easily sucks down 2-3 and wants more. Uh oh-maybe I"ll finally have a chubby kid!

He has big, beautiful eyes and is very expressive. He started smiling this week and cooed for the first time yesterday. He did it twice again today-absolutely the cutest thing ever when he works up his whole body to make one tiny sound. Love it!

I can't believe he is already 3 weeks old and wish I could freeze time since I love the newborn stage. It is a lot of work but so rewarding since he is so sweet, innocent, and straight from heaven. I definitely think we'll keep him!!!

He is here!!!

2010-01-06T20:37:00.000-08:00

Kian James Hassman

January 5, 2010

6:51 pm

7 lb 13 oz 19 inches

ADORABLE

I am so excited my little boy is finally here! Who knew I'd be so smitten with a boy but I definitely am already. I can't stop kissing him and staring at him. We are home and he is barely 1 day old but I can't stand staying in the hospital any longer than I have to. I'm still figuring out the changing a boy's diaper thing (poor guy already peed on himself twice), but I'm learning and can't wait for all the other adventures he will bring.

I will post more pictures later but for now, I'm exhausted and am going to bed while Kian is sleeping. He is completely tuckered out after a day of tests, visitors, and trying to figure out this crazy, scary world!

Aaahhh....

2010-01-02T13:54:00.001-08:00

This little baby boy of mine is being stubborn! I am so ready for him to come out. After trying to come early at 34 weeks (hospital stay and two weeks of meds to keep him in), I thought for sure he would have been here by now. I've been having "teaser" contractions for the last 4 weeks and am getting impatient. I think it's worse waiting when you get your hopes up that he might come early. We already missed the tax deduction for 2009 and the met deductible for 2009, so I don't know what he's waiting for! Anyone know of any tricks to get him here that I haven't already tried?

My doctor has been out of town since Christmas Eve so I haven't had a chance to be induced, but I'm planning on it for Tuesday when he's back in town. I've never had to be induced and have had all my babies with no "drugs" so I'm a little scared of whether I can handle Pitocin. I've heard it's bad! Anyway, just a little venting to get out my frustration. I'm so excited to have this little guy and want to see what he looks like (and I don't want him to get any bigger than he already is!) that I can hardly stand it.

Send any ideas my way if you have the "secret"-I'm sure I've already tried it, but I'm willing to try again!

Restored!!!

2009-11-10T16:34:00.000-08:00

So after technical support called me (my husband) and walked me through finding the picture folder I deleted (who knew to look in the recycle bin?), I now have all of my pictures back. Yeah-I'm so happy to have a computer savvy husband who saves me all of the time with my computer whoes. Here are the pictures that should have been with the last post!

NO PICS

2009-11-10T13:52:00.000-08:00

I sat down to post about Halloween and copy my pictures off my camera to my computer, but accidentally deleted all the pictures somehow. I am so sad! All of the Halloween pictures, Jim's hunting pics, our puppie's first bath, and some cute pics of the girls raking leaves were all deleted. I am so awful-sometimes I hate technology and wish I was smarter in the computer area. I know it is not that hard and I have copied pictures hundreds of times, but I guess I missed a step this time. WAAAHH!!!

Halloween was fun this year and busy as usual! The girls looked adorable in their costumes and came home with quite the loot! Ashtyn was a devel; Jordyn a bunny, and Avery a butterfly. This was one of their cutest years for costumes and I'm so bummed to not have the pics. I helped with both of the school parties and after bending over and over to pick up rings off of pop cans for 45 minutes, I decided it wasn't the best idea for a 71/2 month prego lady. It hurt for a couple of hours after!

Jim flew in around 3:00 Halloween day-just in time to grab a shower (he'd been awake for almost 60 hours and on a plane for 42 hours) and make my mom's Halloween dinner. He was such a good sport and when he accidentally fell asleep on my mom's couch, Ashtyn prodded him with her Devil's pitchfork to get him up to go trick-or-treating.

We didn't carve pumpkins this year because I didn't want to do it by myself, but the girls and I did make sugar cookies and read three new Halloween books one evening. Although three weeks without a husband was hard and lasted forever, it was nice being able to spend so much time with my girls. They truly are great kids and make my days pretty easy! We got daddy home for a whole week but he left again Monday morning for another possible two weeks.

I miss my husband

2009-10-20T08:07:00.000-07:00

I think pregnancy is making me an emotional crybaby. For the last two weeks, I can start crying in less than a second. Maybe its due to the fact that I haven't seen my husband in a week and he still has two more weeks out of town. He doesn't fly in until 3:00 on Halloween day. AAHHH! I'm usually fine when he goes out of town and have gotten used to it over the past 6 years that he's been traveling. But I've been so uneasy about this trip because he has to go to Uganda, Africa. Maybe it's my lack of knowledge about this country, or because I've only heard all the negative about tribal politics, raping of women/children, corrupt leaders, kidnappping of visitors, etc. All I know is I've had this fear in the back of my head and I don't know if it's me freaking myself out or something legit. Yucky feeling!

I just hope the next two weeks goes quickly because I really am missing my sweety. And not just for the help with kids (dog, horse, house....) because I'm tired and pregnant; I miss his companionship, humor, love, kindness, support, and overall great-guyness (no-not a word but I like it anyway!). He really is the perfect husband for me and it is times like this one that makes me realize it and appreciate & love him even more.

Thanks for letting me vent and if you see me with tears the next couple of weeks (months), just chalk it up to me being fat and pregnant! Now go kiss your husbands, tell them you love them, and be thankful they're home-even if they are driving you crazy!

Meet Jane

2009-10-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

This is our new horse Jane. She is quite the beauty with a very gentle, laid back personality. After deciding the two young colts would need more training time than Jim could give, he traded them both for this older, not-so-crazy mare. I feel much better about the horse situation now and even though I am still scared, I know Jane is a lot safer than the colts. The kids love her and have already ridden her a couple of times. Hay for one horse is also much cheaper than for two!

Jim is happy because he's been able to take her on a few long rides and says she's done great. He tried to get me to ride, but I think I'll wait till after I'm pregnant. Unless I get impatient towards the end and need a little bumpy ride to get things going!

BTW-don't you love the little girls socks and sandles? They are both into patterned, funny socks and like to pick out what they wear.No way would I have ever let Ashtyn get away with this when she was little, but hey, by the third kid who cares, right?

School Days

2009-10-08T16:25:00.000-07:00

Jordyn and Avery go to preschool together this year and are absolutely loving it. They have the greatest teacher ever (we found her with Ashtyn and will never need to look elsewhere!) and are excited every day to go. They ask almost every night, "Do I have school tomorrow?" Avery has been talking about homework lately because she brought home a practice sheet of A's on Monday. She came home, sat right up to the table and worked on her homework. Jordyn helped her write her A's and it was so sweet to watch. Now Avery has been telling everyone all week "yeah, I have homework. I always have homework". They are both growing up so fast, and both extremely adorable!

I can't believe Ashtyn is in 2nd grade. She absolutely loves school and is doing so great. She got the teacher she wanted this year and is excelling in everything. She joined the "homework club" because she wanted to stay longer at school everyday, and she just got put into the Discovery program for gifted/talented students. I know, just a little bit of bragging information. She has been great with her sisters the last few weeks and is playing school with them right now. She wants to be a teacher when she grows up (as well as a veterenarian and a "worker at Papa's restaurant") and loves to be in any leadership position. She will be starting basketball in a couple of weeks and I can't wait to see how she'll do already knowing she is the smallest on the team. She definitely didn't get Daddy's height jeans-poor girl-I hope she makes it to 5 feet!

As for me-I am loving having them all in school. I get 2 hours to myself three days a week and have been able to go to the gym (the girl's preschool is literally 1 mile from the gym and across town so I have no excuse to drive all the way back home). Although I have been finding excuses to skip the gym and go grocery shopping or baby boy shopping on some of the days all by myself! I don't know if working out is doing any good anyway with the massive appetite I've had lately. Carrying a boy has definitely been different than my girls and I am already huge-as big as I was when I delivered both Jordyn and Avery. Scary to admit but just giving you all a warning so when you see me you won't think I'm due next week. Kind of depressing that I still have almost 3 months to go. Bring on the chub!

It's a GIRL!!!

2009-09-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

The baby is still a boy (hopefully), but we have another new little one running around and keeping us (me) busy. I had a moment of weakness/niceness at the fair a few weeks ago and let the kids and Jim come home with a puppy. What was I thinking? I have been adamant about "no dog" the last couple of years-we don't even have a fence. I've also been pretty adamant about only wanting a Lab once we do get a puppy. Jim has wanted some sort of "cow dog" to be around his horses, but I think all of the "cow" breeds are ugly. Well this little girl is a black lab/heeler mix, which fits our criteria perfectly. She looks mostly like a lab with white spotted paws that make her so cute. I've never seen Jim get so instantly attached to a dog, and Ashtyn has been begging for one for the past couple of years. So I guess this is for my husband and daughter!

But guess who is taking the most care of her? Yes-Me! Jim has been out of town every week since we got her and is now hunting for 7 days. Did I mention she is only 8 weeks, not potty-trained, and loves to chew(especially the girls ankles)? So I am desperately trying to potty train her (yes, waking up in the middle of the night; yes, cleaning up "accidents" and scooping poo from the yard) and teach her some manners before I have another little newborn to take care of in a few months. Ashtyn has been pretty great with her and takes her potty before school, plays with her when she gets home, and makes sure she gets fed and watered.

We named her Ellie and she is pretty adorable, just a lot of work. I just keep imagining when she's not so little anymore and the poop piles get bigger (in the snow). What fun! Combined with the horse, cat, fish, suburban, and almost 4 kids, we are turning into the typical American "Fam Damily"! Maybe we should move to a farm 'cause the little girls are now wanting a goat!

The results are in...

2009-08-19T16:58:00.000-07:00

Let me just say our trip to Park City this weekend will be tons of fun because I get to do something I've never done before.

Shop for a BOY!!!!!!

That's right...I know it's shocking but there was no mistaking during the ultrasound this morning. We are definitely getting a baby boy and couldn't be more thrilled. Jim hasn't stopped smiling all day. I'm still a little shocked myself but will quickly get into boy mode once I hit the stores!

By the way.....Did I mention......

2009-08-11T16:25:00.000-07:00

Horrible picture, I know! I showed this to several people and they could not figure it out. They thought I was having a barbecue! I only had a hot dog bun in the house at the time and couldn't get the whole wall oven in without it being too far away. I'm definitely having more than a barbecue and am already getting big. We find out next week whether we'll be adding another girl or if Jim will finally get some more testoterone in the house--so excited and can't wait to find out!

Now I need to catch up on our summer before it's gone in a few weeks!

Catch Up

2009-06-01T15:21:00.000-07:00

I've been horrible-I know. I will try to play catch up over the next couple of weeks for the sake of journaling these events for memories later on. I promise we've been busy-I've just never been a camera happy person so I don't take pictures like I should. I need to change that and capture these darling girls more before they grow up before my eyes.

Easter was great this year! It was so nice to have sunshine. The girls looked beautiful in blue; the Easter bunny did not dissapoint, and the girls had fun dying eggs. We didn't make it to any easter egg hunts this year because I had to work over the weekend, but the girls always hide their eggs in the house over and over for eachother to find and have fun that way.

Happy Birthday Avery!

2009-05-06T14:33:00.001-07:00

Avery has been going to preschool with Jordyn for the last couple of months and absolutely loves it. She was the birthday girl today!

I can't get enough of my sweet Avery. I don't want her to be three today because it means she is no longer my baby. I have enjoyed her so much and want her to stay little. She is at the cutest stage right now, learning so much and acting like a big girl, yet still snuggling me and giving me kisses whenever I ask. She is quite the little spunk with a stubborn streak-but it makes her even more irresistible. I'm so glad she decided to join our family on her own terms-suprising the heck out of all of us and making things a little hard (with two babies!!) but bringing so much love and happiness. I love you little one and hope you have a great birthday (now stay little forever!!!).

Scary Night

2009-04-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

I am feeling very lucky and blessed this morning to have my sweet Jordyn with me. We all went to see the horses last night and while we were petting one of them, he got spooked and kicked Jordyn (it could have been avoided if I was being more careful). I was so scared because it knocked her a couple of feet to the ground and I thought for sure she was laying there dead. I thought she was kicked in the chest and worried about internal bleeding, so I just scooped her up, jumped in the truck and drove to the ER. She seemed to be okay but I still wanted her checked out because she is so tiny. I realized when we got there that the horse had actually kicked her in the thigh, which was a big relief. Everything checked out fine, and she left with a deep muscle bruise and a cute, green frog. She was so brave and looked adorable in the little hospital gown. Of course I didn't have my camera!

As I think about what could have happened last night, I realize how lucky Jordyn is to be just fine. Jim says because of the height of the the horse and the position of his legs, she should have been hit high in her chest or even her head. He believes there was an angel that pushed the horse's leg lower. I can't help but cry as I'm writing this knowing how many angels we have in heaven that could have been with her. A horse kick can be really serious, especially on such a little body. I'm just so thankful it wasn't this time.

This experience has me really confused as to what to do with the horses. I know he wasn't trying to hurt her or be malicious or anything; he just got spooked, which can happen any time to any horse. The unpredictability is what scares me so bad. Horses are such huge, powerful animals, and I have always been afraid of them. A friend of mine got drug to death by a horse in 6th grade; the people who we bought the horses from lost their adult son from a kick to the head; my mom has been bucked flat on her back by one; and I've heard of so many stories of horse accidents turned tragic. I don't know if it's worth having horses to me knowing my kids could be in danger. Unfortunately, as much as I'm NOT passionate about horses, my husband IS passionate about them. It has always been his dream to own horses and ride them with his family. I only agreed to get the horses last year knowing how happy it would make Jim.

So what should I do? Jim and I have been talking the last couple of days (before this happened) about how horses might not fit into our lives right now. They are a financial strain, Jim's schedule is so busy at work that he can't give them the amount of time they need right now to be trained, and although the girls do like them, they'd rather have a swingset. So would I... I know myself well enough to admit that I'll never be comfortable around horses enough to let go of my fear about them. Because I'm not comfortable/relaxed around them, I don't know the best way to handle them. If I did, I would have realized the girls and I weren't in a safe position last night and could have seen the horse's agitation enough to get the girls away from him. Jordyn being kicked could have been avoided, but I'm not experienced enough with horses to have realized that. The minute she was kicked, my decision was made to get rid of the horses. Jim doesn't feel the same. He thinks it is better for the girls to be raised around horses so they'll learn how to handle them and not be scared. He will also be heartbroken if he has to get rid of them.

Can you see my dilemma? Take away my husband's dream and happiness or risk my children's safety? It seems like an easy answer, but it could end up affecting our marriage if Jim gives up his horses for me and regrets it later. He would always blame me, and that's a lot of guilt to carry around. Advice anyone?

Happy Birthday Jordyn!!!

2009-04-22T15:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, sweet Jordyn!

She's going to break some hearts, huh? This is one of my absolute favorite pictures of Jordyn. She is absolutely gorgeous to me! I can't believe she is 4 today. I know all moms say that, but poor little Jordyn has been stuck in the middle and is growing up too fast. Just the other day she was telling me that 2+1=3, and 4+1=5, and so on until she got to 10. So cute! Watch out boys--she's smart and beautiful!
Jordyn has always been the sweet, lover of the family. She loves to kiss and hug her sisters and would snuggle me all day if I'd let her. Sometimes I call her the leach because she is always right by me, hugging my leg or trying to kiss my face. She wants lots of hugs at night and when I ask why, she says "I just love you so much, Mom!" I guess that's what matters most, huh? Jordyn has always been especially kind and caring. She is one of the best sharers I know and is always giving things up for Avery-the younger, persistent sister! She always brings a book home from pre-school for Avery and shares her treats before she even eats one. She always lets Avery have the spoon, cup, plate, color, etc. she wants and gives it to her without even being asked (I'm afraid this is spoiling Avery!). She does have an attitude at times but for the most part is a very sweet, little girl. She has the most infectious, sincere laugh that can't help make us all smile and laugh. She has definitely brought sunshine into our lives and I'm so thankful and lucky to be her mother.

"I like to move it, move it"

2009-04-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

Ashtyn had her first "research" project at school (in 1st grade). Their class was studying animals of the rain forest and jungle, and Ashtyn picked Lemur from the list. I totally thought it was some kind of leopard or cat of some sorts at first and before I saw a picture of one (I'm so stupid), but then Ashtyn told me it was like the monkeys on Madagascar. Their assignment was to look up a few facts about their animal (habitat, diet, looks, unique info., etc.) and make a habitat box. Do you know how hard it is to find a Lemur in this town. We went to every toy store trying to find some type of figurine or stuffed animal. I finally resorted to the internet and ended up ordering some from Duke University. Ashtyn could have just colored a picture of one or something, but of course she wanted one that looked real. Spoiled child!

The funny thing about her choosing a lemur is we used to watch Madagascar several times a day a few years ago when Jordyn was a baby. She loved that movie so much and wanted the song "move it, move it" over and over. She couldn't even walk yet but would sit and dance and scream to that song. We even had a "Madagascar Theme" for her 1st b-day party. It was fun that the girls got so excited over a school project. They play with the lemurs all the time and even named them "Blackie" and "Stripey". I'm sure this is the beginning of several school projects that will only get harder and harder. Good thing that's what a Dad is for!

Happy Birthday Ashlee!!!

2009-04-08T23:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my sister's birthday. It was a beautiful, sunny day---just like her. Ashlee would have turned 28, and I can't believe how many years have gone by. My mom mentioned that in 4 years, Ashlee will have been dead for as many years as she lived. That just sounds crazy--and extremely sad! I know Ashlee was meant to be with her Father in Heaven; that is one truth we were assured of in her sudden death. But every Spring on her b-day, I can't help but feel that she would be adding her own beautiful sunshine to this gloomy world. Ashlee was so much like the Spring-giving happiness and hope to so many after a long, dark, cold winter. Spring makes us feel alive again. It gives us purpose and motivation for warm, sunny days. It greets us with a smile when we feel we have nothing left to smile about. That is how I think of Ashlee-warming all those around her with her infectious smile; touching others with her caring and loving personality.
It was so fitting that just the other day (a few days before her b-day), I ran into a guy from high school that I hadn't seen in years. After Ashlee died, we received a letter from him explaining that he was inspired to go on a mission because of Ashlee. They had seminary together, and he wasn't having a very good year: not many friends, felt alone, didn't want to be in seminary, outcast, etc. But on the first day of class, Ashlee smiled and befriended him in a way that no one ever had. She continued to be kind to him each day, and they developed a special friendship because of her christ-like love for him (and everyone else). He told us he decided to go on a mission because he wanted the chance to make others feel as good as Ashlee had made him feel. I think that is the ultimate compliment and description of Ashlee---she just made you feel good! She didn't care who you were, what you looked like, what you wore, who you hung out with, or what others would think if she were your friend. She smiled and loved people anyway. I wish she was still here to show others just how important that is.

Even though it's been 12 years since she died, Jen and I still feel that we are missing a piece of our "sisterhood". When we pose for a picture together, she should be right there with us. It shouldn't be us standing over her grave. I've missed her so much, especially since I've had my own daughters. I imagine what my girls' relationship would be with her and how much she would love them. It makes me sad that they will never know her in this life; never witness how her smile touches other's instantly. Both Jen and I can see traits of Ashlee in our own children, and we are so thankful that little pieces of her are living on. I tried to explain to Jordyn while we were at the cemetery that her middle name is from Ashlee. Even though she was more interested in the pine cones, I think she understood that it is a special name and that Ashlee lives in Heaven with Heavenly Father. A lot to comprehend for a three-year-old!

(They put their hands up to block the sun right when I took the picture-Avery was sleeping)

I'm thankful for Spring and it's new beginnings. I'm thankful for the special time it brings each year for me to reflect on Ashlee and how beautiful she was in every way. I'm thankful for the sunshine to remind me of Ashlee's example of how to treat and love others. I'm thankful to be able to share her with my girls even though they haven't met her on this earth. I'm thankful to live within 2 miles of the cemetery-I can see it from my house and can see my house while standing at Ashlee's grave. (Maybe that's the reason I felt so connected to the lot before we built.) Mostly, I'm thankful for a beautiful sister who continues to touch my life in so many ways, and who I can't wait to see again.

2009-04-06T12:54:00.000-07:00

Did EASTER sneak up on anyone else this year?

Haircuts!!!

2009-04-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

I'm not even going to make excuses for not blogging because really, I just haven't made it a priority. But as I continue to look at all of your's, I miss not updating mine. I forget sometimes that this is my journal. This is where I keep track of my girlies! We are so not normal in that we have never had a video camera. Sometimes it makes me sad seeing others captured memories of when their babies are little and knowing I don't have those to look back on. I never thought we needed a video camera because I would "remember" everything. Yeah right! Now I regret not recording their sweet little voices and milestones as they are growing up. Thus-I need to make an effort at updating my blog. I
have never been a "picture taker" and hardly ever have my camera with me. But as I've read and heard about so many little ones who have passed away lately and seen the pictures of their short lives, I'm inspired to take more pictures of my sweet girls. How awful it would be to lose a child and not have pictures to carry you through the grief!

The girls all needed haircuts a few weeks ago, and Ashtyn took the plunge and wanted it short. She no longer does ballett (sniff, cry, tears, etc. from me-not her!! Another story, another time) so since she doesn't need long hair for buns anymore, I let her pick how she wanted it cut. Turned out so cute and makes her look older! She had about 7 inches cut off and it was kind of sad seeing her hair all over the ground. Avery has always loved haircuts and keeping her hair short. I love her little A-line! Jordyn loves her hair long and only got a trim. It's so funny to see how each of my girls are so different. I love taking them all to the salon and seeing them smile to themselves in the mirrors. What can I say? They like to be pampered like their mommy.

All so cute! I have always wanted all girls and have enjoyed them so much. I'm getting so baby hungry and think I have finally talked Jim into "thinking about it" sometime in the next couple of years. I want two more but will only get one so I'm hoping there is another sweet girl waiting for us!

Gracie Girl

2009-03-02T15:55:00.000-08:00

My heart has been heavy this past week as I've been following the story of this precious baby girl. Her family had to say goodbye to her today and my heart is aching for them. I'm so thankful they have shared her life through their blog, which has touched the lives of so many. I'm sure it will touch yours as well as you read through her incredible journey. I know the power of prayer can be so strong and I ask you to include Gracie's family in your prayers as I've done with hundreds of others this week.

http://thegledhillfamily.blogspot.com

Even though my heart is breaking for this family, I can't help but feel grateful that I have three beautiful, healthy little girls to hold onto everday. I am so blessed and lucky to be their mother. Stories like Gracie's are so quick to touch my heart and life and seem to inspire me to be a better mother each day. Even though I fail on numerous occasions, I hope at the end of each day my girls know how much I love them. How I wish the world would stop for a day so I could spend it just holding, loving, and hugging my precious daughters for the entire day. No dishes, No laundry, No work, No computer, No chores, No school, No carpool, No Nothing-Just love!

Still kicking, but barely....

2009-02-10T13:12:00.000-08:00

I know the winter sickness has been going around as I've read on several of your blogs. I was hoping it would skip us this year but to no such luck. I got influenza and bronchitis last Saturday (a week and a half ago) and now my two little ones have had it all week. We've been to the doctors 4 times since that Saturday and have kept the pharmacy in business this last week. The girls have croup on top of their bronchitis so we've had to go in and get steroid treatments to keep their swelling down. Avery also has a bladder infection so we had to go back for that! We're all on antibiotics and our kitchen counter looks like a fully-stocked medicine counter.

I had some codeine cough syrup for the night, but after it made my heart race and caused hallucinations all night, I got rid of it. I was pretty scared as I've never had that happen to me-especially since my hallucinations were of murderers in my room and me zipping myself up in a body bag. How strange, huh? I've never been a medicine taker, and this week has just validated why.
What a fun week! I usually am pretty healthy and keep going even when I'm sick, but this time it's knocked me on my butt. I spent three days in bed and still don't have all my energy back. The worst part about this is I had to miss the boot camp class I signed up for at the gym and wait til March to start it. AAHH! I swear the universe wants me to be fat forever!

I hope everyone else is staying healthy or else starting to feel better! Just know you aren't the only one who has stayed in your jammies all week and let your house fall apart! Or maybe I'm the only one cause the rest of you are superwomen!

My Crazy Avery!

2009-01-15T22:25:00.000-08:00

This is Avery's "funny face" that she loves to do lately. She had us all cracking up at dinner the other night doing this over and over. She makes herself look like a bassett hound! She has turned into quite the big girl this past two weeks. She threw her binkies away-Finally- in exchange for new Dora jammies (she is obsessed with Dora and loves to wear jammies all day-good bribe!). We made her crib into a toddler bed (since she was climbing out every day anyway), and she is officially POTTY TRAINED (thanks to Dora Saves the Snow Princess underwear!) Where did my baby go? I could kiss this child all day, every day if she'd let me. There's just something so sweet about her that makes her so loveable. She's also got a little sass to her, which makes her unique and so fun. I found a shirt at Old Navy that says Sweet, Sassy, Sweet and had to get it because that is Avery to a tee. I love her to pieces and am so proud of my little girl for making it through these big milestones the last couple of weeks.

Ummm-I mean, 8 Amazing Years

2008-12-30T13:13:00.000-08:00

Ok-so you'd think since we got married in 2000 I could easily remember how many years it has been. I guess not! Thanks Brit for bringing that to my attention. Did I mention I had a ton on my plate right now-where is my brain?

9 Amazing Years!

2008-12-22T23:03:00.000-08:00

I was suppost to do this post on December 16, our Anniversary, but do I ever get the tribute on the right day for anything? We got married on a blistering, cold day nine years ago the day after finals at BYU-Idaho. I always dreamed of a spring wedding, but as all of you know, horniness gets the best of us and we all play it smart by having the wedding sooner! Even though our wedding day was freezing, it turned out beautiful and everything I could have asked for. The pictures in the snow with my white wedding dress in front of the white temple were beautiful (if I wasn't so lazy, I'd pull out the album, scan in the pictures, and show you all-besides, I don't want to see how skinny I was back then-too depressing!).

It truly has been an amazing 9 years full of love, children, personal growth, relationship growth, excitement, and happiness. Jim is the perfect husband for me and the best daddy to his three girls. God knew what he was doing when he "got us together" in his mysterious ways even though I wasn't trusting at first. Every other man I know could never be as good a husband, to me, as Jim. I love him and am thankful for him everyday. (Yes he changes diapers; yes he does the dishes; yes he cleans the bathrooms, bedrooms, family rooms, the kitchen, and dusts-all better than me; yes he can fix things; yes he bathes the girls; yes he cleans up puke-the kids' and mine; yes he wraps presents; yes he watches chick flicks with me; yes he keeps the yard mowed, trimmed, and weeded; yes he watches the girls when Mom needs a weekend away; yes he takes them to church by himself-and tries to do their hair; yes he works hard everyday to make a nice living for his family) Yes he does have faults, but he truly is one of the most selfless, caring, loving men I know, and I'm glad he's mine!

We usually take a weekend getaway in SLC for our anniversary every year filled with shopping, pampering, and eating out. This year we went to the Carrie Underwood concert on the 7th row on the floor. It was absolutely amazing-that girl can rock and has one of the best voices I've ever heard. We've been to several concerts and her's was the best one! We were six people away from her and I think I have a new girl crush. She's so hot! We had such a good time and felt young again screaming and singing along with the crowd. (Thanks mom for watching the girls. They always have such a good time with you, and I never worry when they're in your care.)

This video does not do her justice. She sounded way better!

Happy Belated Halloween

2008-12-14T20:39:00.000-08:00

The snow has been falling the past two days-Beautiful!!-and I'm afraid winter is here to stay. Since I'm forcing myself to catch up, and we usually have snow on Halloween in Idaho, I thought it was a good day to post about Halloween this year. What awesome weather we had this year for trick-or-treating. I bundled my girls under their costumes and was planning on having to throw on coats and gloves, but we actually got hot without the outer layers. It was perfect!

I had great aspirations of coordinating our entire family as the cast of Wizard of Oz (Jim-tin man, Me-Glenda, Ashtyn-Dorothy, Jordyn-scarecrow, Avery-lion) but time slipped away and costumes became scarce. I'm planning to do this next year and convince my mom to make all our costumes! Ashtyn and Jordyn picked out princess dresses-of course-and Avery settled on the most adorable pink dinosaur costume. One problem: after seeing Ashtyn and Jordyn in their pretty dresses (which Avery is obsessed with right now-if they don't twirl, she isn't interested), Avery did not want to wear her dinosaur. Good thing we have a ton of dresses in the dress up box, and Avery was happy to be Cinderella. Crisis avoided! I think they make three beautiful princesses!

I also took the easy route on pumpkins this year and found these cute "accessories" at good 'ole Walmart. They were so easy, and the girls loved them. We did end up carving the Mommy and Daddy pumpkins (yes, mine is the fattest) but kept it pretty simple. All in all a great time!

Raining Leaves

2008-12-11T21:28:00.000-08:00

Okay! I have no excuse for not blogging the past two months other than I've been extremely busy. (But who isn't?) I've spent more time on the computer working than I have since college. Just no time for blogging. My freelance writing career has really picked up and I've been working on two different books for different clients over the last couple of months. I've also done a menu, some website editing, and will finish up another book over the next few weeks. It's been so awesome to work in my degree, stay at home, and get paid really well for doing something I enjoy. The writing has been challenging in several ways, but I have learned a ton and am gaining more confidence in my abilities. Hopefully soon I can work on my own books so I can someday be an author on Oprah's book club (ha, ha-but seriously one of my dreams!).

I have so many things to blog about that have been going on in our lives, but I don't know if I will ever catch up. I haven't even done my girl's 1st day of school or Halloween. Pretty pathetic! Because I want this to blog to be a journal to look back on in the future, bear with as I will probably be posting a lot of past events that I want to record for history (Ashtyn's surgery, Thanksgiving, Halloween, school, CARRIE UNDERWOOD concert-just to name a few).

I can't believe Fall is over already. We had such a nice-weather Fall this year and I wanted it to stay longer. We have a huge, huge tree in our yard that dumps tons and tons of leaves each year. One particular windy day, I remember Jordyn saying "Mommy, come here. It's raining leaves." She was looking out the window and it was seriously raining leaves. We walked outside and couldn't see around us cause leaves were falling and swirling in all directions. It was pretty magical! (Until we spent 5 hours raking those leaves into piles a few days later!) I wish the world would stop like that sometimes and let us just stand in the beautiful, swirling leaves with our children and enjoy the moment. I don't do that often enough, and those are the moments that children cherish and remember!

Hope you all have some time to enjoy the magical moments of the Christmas season these next couple of weeks. I absolutely love this time of year. Children's smiles are bright, their minds are innocent, and they show us the type of love that our Saviour's birth was all about.

Sleeping Beauties

2008-10-21T21:34:00.000-07:00

Since Ashtyn started first grade, Jordyn and Avery have become the best of little friends since they only have each other to play with during the day. It is so cute to listen to them playing upstairs and the way they talk to each other. I think Jordyn loves finally being able to be the older sister with all the ideas while Ashtyn's away. The other day they had been playing "house" in Avery's closet for most of the morning before I announced it was nap time. They had already gotten all the blankets down from the shelves in Avery's closet, and Jordyn said "can we sleep in the closet?" Usually I am a stickler for sleeping in your own bed, but they were being so sweet and I thought "why not?" So I let them and this is how they ended up! Jordyn slept for about an hour, and Avery slept for 3 1/2 hours. I think they got a little hot from the confined space and body heat 'cause their cheeks look flushed. It sounds bad that my kids took a nap in the closet, but it was too adorable not to snap a memory.

4th Picture Tag

2008-10-16T13:54:00.000-07:00

This tag seemed easy enough since I've been horrible at blogging lately. This is Jordyn a little before she was 1 (I think!). She has the finest hair that is always fly-away. Doesn't she look a little like Elmer Fudd?

Getting With It!

2008-09-25T00:30:00.000-07:00

I am finally catching you all up on the little "sneak preview" I mentioned a few weeks ago. I don't put things off, do I ?
The girls' first snow cones of the summer. This is one of our favorite things about summer, and the girls (and Jim) absolutely love them.
Avery couldn't get enough and was sucking every last drop out of her cup.

We took a lovely Sunday drive after church to Cave Falls. I hadn't been for a while and forgot how close you can get to the water. I dressed the girls in tennis shoes but should have put them in water clothes and sandals 'cause they all waded in the water. It was freezing, but the girls didn't care. Avery actually fell all the way under, cut her leg on a rock, and got a face-full of water. She shivered the rest of the time!

It was such a nice afternoon and the falls are really pretty. We could have stayed for hours just skipping rocks and splashing around. Jim and I should have plopped down some chairs and read a book while the girls played.

I love this picture. The girls adore their daddy, and Jim adores his girls. He always tries to teach them something on our little excursions-this time he picked rocks out of the water and turned them upside down to show the girls the bug larvaes on the bottom. It was actually pretty cool because we could break open their little cacoons and see the bug forming from a little worm. He told the girls that when these bugs hatch, the fish jump out of the water and eat them. And that's what his fly-fishing is all about-duplicating these bugs and trying to fool the fish! (Didn't you all want to know?)

Ashtyn lost her first tooth a couple of months ago. It finally got loose enough for Daddy to pull it out. Ashytn freaked out cause she thought it would hurt a lot and was screaming! Jim was trying to wait 'til she stopped crying, but I told him just to pull it since her mouth was open anyways. It popped right out of course, and Ashtyn calmed down 'cause she didn't even feel it. She also had to have the tooth right next to it pulled by the dentist because her two front permanent teeth were already coming in behind her baby teeth in the wrong spot. We definitely need to start saving for braces now!

And by the way, that strange stomach flu I mentioned-it started the morning of Ashtyn's dentist app. I had to call my dad to take her because I couldn't leave the bathroom for more than 2 minutes for almost three hours(so glamorous, huh? But I did lose 5 pounds that day!). I felt so bad cause I couldn't even go hold Ashtyn's hand during her first tooth-pulling. But my dad was amazing that day. He took all the girls to swimming lessons, brought them home to get dressed, then took them to lunch and to the park (and no, my mom wasn't with him). I was so impressed, and Avery even through a couple of little tantrums for him. Ha, Ha-she is a little monster! The girls love their papa!

Swimming lessons were such a blast (hell no!). It was Jordyn's first year, and she cried for the first three days. I had to pretty much just drop her into the pool. She absolutely hates to be cold (can you blame her? She doesn't have an ounce of fat warmth on her body) and her lessons were pretty early so it was chilly. I lied and said Ashytn was 5 so she could be in Jordyn's class to help her. Good for Jordyn-boring for Ashtyn. She already knew everything they taught in that level so didn't gain much from the two weeks. Oh yeah-while Jordyn was crying cause she didn't want to be in the water, Avery was crying cause she couldn't get in the water. She's not old enough yet, so everyday for two weeks, we stood outside the fence while she cried cause she wanted "to get her swimsuit on and go swimming". (Ashtyn is the one floating on her back, and Jordyn is the first one sitting on the bench by the edge of the pool).

Can I take your order? You are all just dying to find out what my new job is right? Well, even though I swore I'd never go back and got a degree so I wouldn't have to do this again, I started waitressing a couple nights a week at my parent's restaurant. They have been really shorthanded most of the summer and I thought we could help each other out. Who doesn't want a little extra cash, huh? I've actually quite enjoyed it! It's nice to see the same customers still coming in after 8 years. It's also nice to have adult conversation and come home to a clean house and kids in bed. I also get to work with my sister both nights so that is is plus! At first I was a little embarrassed to admit I was a waitress again: I'm 28, I have three kids, my husband makes 6 figures, I have a college degree, and I'm a waitress again. Doesn't it sound kind of funny? But oh well-I got over it fast cause who really cares in the end? I'm a damn good waitress and have been making killer tips. I'm thankful that my parents have this great business and am appreciative for a job in this crazy economy. So anyway, if you are in town, come visit me at good 'ole O'Brady's on Thursday and Friday nights. (By the way, I tried to curl my hair this particular night, which I never do and have no idea how to, and this is how it turned out. Aaahhh-I even burned my neck with the curling iron!)

This is my new "mommy vehicle". I traded in my Yukon (sniff, sniff) 'cause I saw no reason to have three cars. Jim had to buy a little car (Honda Civic) cause his office moved to Rexburg and his huge Diesel Dodge wasn't exactly the best gas option for driving up there everyday. We were filling up his tank every five days at $140. Not smart! (On top of my $110 every week for my Yukon) But he insists on having a truck, especially now that we have horses. So I decided I could drive a truck for a couple of years until we have another kid and need more room. Jim got rid of his huge Dodge, and we found this beautiful thing. I actually like it a ton-way nice model with leather/heated seats, sunroof, 6-disc cd, all the options. And now that gas has gone down a little, it was a way good decision! Hey, guys dig chicks in trucks, huh?

So anyway, sorry for the long post, and I know I didn't cover everything, but at least I got this info. down to put in the record book. I hope all of your summers were great and that fall is off to a good start! (Damn this cold weather!!!)

Random Nonsense!

2008-09-22T17:45:00.000-07:00

I saw this on a friends blog and thought it was hilarious. I had to share it with everyone at work. So, here are my alias':

1. Your Rock Star Name (first pet and current car): Marvin Silverado

2. Your Gangsta Name (favorite ice cream flavor, favorite cookie): Neopolitan Chocolate Chip

3. Your "Fly Girl" Name (first initial of first name, first three letters of your last name): C. Has

4. Your Detective Name (favorite color and favorite animal): Pink Cat

5. Your Soap Opera Name (middle name, city where you were born): Michelle Las Vegas

6. Your Star Wars Name (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first name):Hasch

7. Your Superhero Name ("the"+ 2nd favorite color, favorite drink): The Blue Dr. Pepper

8. Your Nascar Name (the first names of your grandfathers): Bart Dean

9. Your Witness Protection Name (first letter of mothers maiden name, fathers middle name): I.Lynn

10. Your TV Weather Anchor Name (your 5th grade teachers last name, a major city that starts with the same letter): Hulse Hollywood

11. Your Spy Name (your favorite season/holiday, favorite flower): Spring Lily

12. Your Cartoon Name (favorite fruit, article of clothing your wearing right now + "ie" or "y"):Watermelon Caprisie

13. Your Hippy Name (what you ate for breakfast, your favorite tree): Fiber One Maple

14. Your Rock Star Tour Name ("the" + your favorite hobby/craft, favorite weather element + "tour"): The Reading Sunshine Tour

What a totally random post but kind of fun since it is complete nonsense. We all need some of that every once in a while!

Hallowed Day

2008-09-11T12:05:00.000-07:00

As I pulled out of the garage this morning to take Ashtyn to school, I was caught off guard by the flag in our yard that the Scouts put out on holidays/special dates. I thought to myself "what holiday is today?" Then I realized it is September 11, and my mind instantly went into reflective mode. I remember hearing the horrifying news of that dreadful day 7 years ago. I was sitting in my Creative Writing class at BYU-Idaho when they announced it, and then I went to the MC and watched it happening on TV the rest of the day. I remember watching the news whenever I could for the next two weeks feeling the heartache for those involved and shedding tears for the victims and their families. I remember being hopeful after a few days when they still were rescuing people from the rubble, and then feeling the hope slowly burn out as it became too long for anyone to survive. This tragedy hit me to the core, and I will never understand how anyone could do this to another country (I have never really understood war or acts of terrorism). I will also never forget the courage and patriotism that arose during this tragedy and am thankful for all the service men who sacrificed their lives to help.

It just so happened that I had a poetry assignment in my creative writing class that same week. I chose to write about the attack on the Trade Centers, and this is what I came up with just two days after it happened. (By the way, our poem could not rhyme, and we had to use illiteration in the first line. I can only write poems that rhyme, so this was a struggle for me!)

BROKEN PIECES
(In response to the terrorism attack on the World Trade Centers on September 11, 2001.)

Cutting through the clouds with calmness
the passenger jets slice the sky.
The silent sun has already risen,
giving reason for another beautiful day.

But an unknown evil is lurking in the midst
with a destructive design on their minds.
Heading toward the heart of the nation,
the innocent people as their bomb.

A shining skyline is abruptly changed
as swarms of smoke fill the air.
Two great giants come crashing down,
and America is left standing in awe.

Our lives, our families, our nation
has been suddenly shattered apart,
broken pieces amidst the chaos and destruction
that can never again be glued together.

A mastermind plan has been carried out
with no second thought of pain or guilt.
The message is sent, a war is waged,
and the fight is about to begin.

Who are these beasts with hearts so hollow,
not shadowed by shame or thought?
Death and bloodshed upon their hands
only fuels their flasks of hatred.

They think their action has destroyed us,
that the damage done is beyond repair.
But the human heart can be broken
and time after time, still go on beating.

Now our hearts beat together
as a whole nation for one cause.
Hand-in-hand we are unified,
to pick up the pieces and rise again.

Gone Fishin'

2008-09-08T13:47:00.000-07:00

My husband-doing what he loves! My uncle, from Washington, came for a visit a couple of weeks ago and Jim took him to the river. They have kind of made this a tradition that every time my uncle comes, they go fishing. Jim has taught him a lot about fly-fishing the last couple of years, and they always have a great time together. He taught my uncle how to nymph (whatever???) this time and had great luck!

I remember after Jim and I were first married and living in Rexburg. He would take off fishing 3-4 times a week while I did homework in the evenings. Fishing has always been one of his passions, and he hasn't been able to fish much since that first year. He's lucky to get in 1-2 trips each season lately because he's so busy (mostly because of his travel schedule-and kids-and horses!!)
I'm so glad he was able to get out the other weekend and enjoy the river. It always makes him smile like a little boy! He wants to teach me how to fly-fish, but I'm just content sitting on the shore with a good book (yeah-like that ever happens). I also have this weird thing about not liking to kill animals-even fish; especially since I don't eat them!

Attempted Catch Up

2008-08-19T13:35:00.000-07:00

Avery is napping; I just built a big tent in the living room for Jordyn, Ashtyn, and their cousin, Liz, to keep them busy; and I am sitting down with my Diet Dr. Pepper to play catch up on the last couple of weeks I've missed blogging. But wait-I just remember that Jim has taken the camera to Washington D.C. (yes his travels have started up again-WAHHHH) with him this week, and I haven't downloaded any pictures since my last few posts. Since I hate to post without pictures, I'll have to postpone this 'til next week. But I will give you a sneak peak as to what the topics will be:

Swimming Lessons
Horse's new home
Ashtyn's first "lost tooth" and first "pulled tooth"
Christine's Stomach Bug
Christine's New Truck (bye, bye Yukon)
House for Sale (WAHHHHHH)
My Mom's Hawaiin Luau
School Supply Shopping (Hannah Montana anyone?)
Christine's New Job
Jim's sister's Jackson Wedding Adventure

I'm sure several of these topics are making you think "what the h..."; they are making me think the same thing. We've had quite a few changes these last couple of weeks, and I've been in a somewhat humble, depressed mood (thus the no blogging). But after a good dose of self-pity and a few swallows of pride, I'm happy with the decisions we've made and have a good attitude as to what lies ahead. As for now, even though I hate doing this because I don't like pressuring people to comment, I'm going to leave you with the "memory game" you've probably seen floating around blogs recently. I need a little "pick-me-up" and think your memories are just what I need (since this Diet Dr. Pepper doesn't seem to be working!).

So come on everybody, share the good, the bad, and even the ugly. I've had three babies- what else can you expose that will leave me more "naked"?

1. Leave a memory that you and I had together, as a comment on my blog. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

My Treasures!

2008-08-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love these pictures of my beautiful girls. A friend of ours (who use to baby-sit the girls while I worked) has kicked off her professional photography career. We got together a few weeks ago and she took some adorable pictures of the girls at Freeman Park. Unfortunately, she just moved to Tennessee so her husband can go to dental school. We are going to miss her so much but are so thankful she captured these special memories for us. She took a ton of shots, but these are some of my favorites.

Once Again.....

2008-07-29T17:07:00.000-07:00

I think my family deserves a discount at the local funeral home as we've helped keep them in business. My aunt died on Saturday and the funeral home workers (who are great!!) even commented on how much they've seen us, especially with my Grandma dying only a month ago. We first worked with Wood's Funeral home several years ago when my Grandma died, and they have since helped us with my nephew, my sister, Bryan, my Grandpa, my Grandma, and now, my aunt. Just a warning: you might want to stay away from my family; death seems to quite like us.

My aunt has been struggling with her weight most of her life and had some heart complications the last two years. She's been on a rollercoaster ever since-in and out of the hospital, battling infections, complications with diabetes, breathing problems, and several smaller ailments. She's been suffering for quite awhile, and even though she recently lost close to 100lbs., she somehow got a bacteria through her body that I think was the final straw. We are all glad to know that she's in peace now, but we ache for her husband and teenage daughter who are going to feel her absence so greatly.

I've come to understand that death is just an inevitable part of life and seems to be my family's personal trial, but it is still hard and heartbreaking each time it happens. I'm thankful for a knowledge of Heavenly Father's plan for us. I'm thankful that there is hope in eternal life, and that we will be with our loved ones again someday. I'm thankful for a loving Heavenly Father who sends his comforting spirit in times of sorrow. I pray that spirt will be with my Uncle and cousin in the hard times ahead.

Haircuts

2008-07-24T19:04:00.000-07:00

All the girls needed their hair trimmed so we took the plunge and headed out a couple of weeks ago. Ashtyn wanted to go really short, and we kept having to "take of a couple more inches off", but this was as short as I could let her go. I love her long hair and it's so much easier to put it in a bun for ballet when it's long. She got almost 6 inches taken off, and now we can barely get it in a pony tail. But it is easy because I never have to do it and it still looks cute. Jordyn just got a trim, and Avery got a little a-line, which looks pretty cute when it's styled. I can just imagine the fun days my girls and I are going to have at the spa and salon in the future. "Sure you can go hunting, honey; just leave us the credit card!"

Gotta Love It!

2008-07-21T13:34:00.000-07:00

I'm sure I'll have to break out this picture in a few years when the girls are all fighting and think having sisters is so awful. I'll have evidence to show them that they once loved each other. But for now, we savor these special moments, which still happen quite often. The girls are usually best friends and play together all day, but I heard it changes once the teenage years arrive. Please stay young...Please stay young....Please stay young!

Reflections

2008-07-16T09:35:00.000-07:00

I decided to put a playlist on my blog so I can represent who I really am. I absolutely love music! I have music on usually everyday, and it always helps me have a better attitude. My kids have listened to CMT since they were babies and know most of the songs I do. So why not put one of my favorite things on my blog that I usually check everyday? Maybe because I thought it was harder to create a list than it actually was. So dang easy!!!

As I was putting together songs this morning, I got caught up in the memories that most of these songs evoked. So many events and moments of my life are surrounded with music that will always have special meaning to me. I got carried away and started looking for songs that brought back tender feelings to my heart. I cried listening to a lot of these songs. Most of the songs I chose for this first playlist hold memories that a lot of you have shared with me. I bet they'll even make you remember, too! I included songs that remind me of highschool, volleyball, friends, Josh, Bryan, my sister, my husband, and my daughters.

Listening to the songs that remind me of the people I've lost in my life helps keep their memories alive for me. Yes, they do make me sad and shed tears because of how much I miss them, but the songs also make me thankful that I can remember such special people everytime I hear their songs. But then I'll hear a song that reminds me of my life now and feel so blessed that I've got to experience so many incredible things so far. Some of these songs are for the amazing love I feel for my husband and family; some of them are for the times I've shared dancing and having fun with my girls.

It's been a fun morning reminiscing about special people and special memories. I hope all of you have a love for music like I do. My life is enhanced by music; my soul is rejuventated through music; my attitude is better with music; and my memories will never fade because of music.

Girls Getaway!!!

2008-07-12T22:03:00.000-07:00

Britney has already beat me to this post and shared how much fun we had, but I had to give a shout out on my blog also to the girls that made this weekend so great. We had such a good time shopping, eating, laughing, swimming, and of course, talking, talking, talking. It was so good to catch up on eachother's lives and to reconnect with one another. We will definitely be doing this every year until we're old ladies stuck in our wheelchairs!

It was also so good to see them, and everyone else, the next weekend at our 10th year reunion. Everyone always says how they can't believe 10 years have gone by, but seriously "I can't believe it's already been 10 years since high school." I had such a good high school experience because of so many things: sports, student council, fun parents, hot guys, and most of all, amazing friends. I'm lucky to still see some of them pretty regularly, but I miss so many of them! It was fun to see that some people never change, and that a few people suprised us with how much they've changed. Of course I didn't take any pictures, but I'm so thankful to have graduated in the class of '98 with so many awesome people. GO BEES!!!!

In the arms of his love

2008-07-03T14:26:00.000-07:00

My Grandma passed away one week ago today peacefully in her bed. My grandpa, the love of her life, died almost one year ago this August. Even though Grandma has been miserable since Grandpa died, her health has been pretty good, and we all expected her to live for several years. Although this came as a shock and suprise, we are all okay knowing that Grandma is with her love again-the only thing she's been wanting since he passed.

We all hear about elderly couples dying a short time from one another, and now I've witnessed this precious blessing from Heavenly Father. I guess it's true that one can will herself to die as I'm sure that's what my Grandma did. What a loving, caring Heavenly Father (who knew the pain and heartache my Grandma has been feeling this past year) to bring her back to her husband.

I'm happy for my grandparents to be reunited again; I'm happy for the love they must feel to once again be in eachother's arms. I'm sad that I won't see them in this life again; I'm sad that my children won't be able to continue the special, tender relationship that was beginning to develop with their great-grandparents; I'm sad for my father, who has now lost both of his parents-what an empty, lonely feeling that must be.

I was able to share some of my memories of Grandma at her graveside service, and it was so special to take some time to reflect on her. Even though my grandparents lived in California all of my childhood, I was able to realize through my memories what an impact she had on my life. I always felt love from her; I was always excited to visit her; I always felt special in her presence; and I will continue to love her and keep her memory alive.

Another Successful Trip!

2008-06-30T11:40:00.000-07:00

Bear Lake was awesome this year! The weather was great; the beach day was perfect; the kids loved being outside; and the bugs stayed away. It was so nice not having a baby this year-the kids were old enough to play around the campsite without getting hurt or wandering off. Mom and Dad got to relax and have fun visiting, hiking, playing horseshoes, making crafts with the kids, playing volleyball on the beach, reading, eating (of course!), and staying up late at the campfire! We look forward to Bear Lake every year because it's such a fun, safe, relaxing getaway after a stressful spring. The only bad thing is the packing and the laundry when we get home. This picture doesn't give the real sense of how much laundry I had because a couple of hampers are still full and I hadn't sorted it into piles yet. I washed 16 loads by the time I was done including bedding, blankets, towels, swimsuits, shoes, and clothes.

By the way, we had a little scare when Ashtyn got a tick embedded in her belly button and when we saw a second tick the next day in our trailor. The ticks are out and Lyme disease is on the rise, so make sure and check your kids (and yourself) if you're in the great outdoors this summer!

Check out the slide show below for all the highlights of our trip this year. Sorry for including so many pictures-it is not even half of what I took!

Annual Bear Lake Reunion

2008-06-30T11:29:00.001-07:00

Ashtyn's Adventures

2008-06-23T16:05:00.000-07:00

Ashtyn danced in her annual spring ballet performance at the beginning of June. They did The Wizard of Oz for the first time and it was adorable. Ashtyn was a bumblebee who danced with a ladybug for Dorothy. I was really impressed with all the props, costumes, music, and narration this year. They also involved a lot of tap peformers, which made it very entertaining. Now Ashtyn says she wants to do tap and ballet. I don't think I could get my legs/feet to move so fast!Ashtyn turned 6 on June 8, and I feel so bad that I didn't wish her a Happy Birthday on my blog. Maybe it was because I ran around that day getting ready for her "dog/cat" birthday party for her friends and cousins.
It actually turned out to be quite a fun party! Everyone got whiskers and a nose painted on when they arrived, thought of their "dog" or "cat" name, and wrote it on their dog tags to wear around their necks. We also had dog races, played "I had a little doggy and he won't bite you", guessed who was barking and meowing, dug for mice in the kitty litter, and licked up ice cream out of their real dog and cat bowls. Even though it was a little crazy with all those kids, I think they all had a great time, and Ashtyn loved it! It's a good thing because she probably won't get to have a friend party for a few years!

Ashtyn has always been my angel child. She was such a good baby and toddler, and has only now begun to develop a slight attitude. For the most part, she is good-natured, a great helper, a good sister, and a beautiful girl both inside and out. We love her a ton and feel blessed to be able to raise such an amazing daughter.

Where Have the Lazy Days of Summer Gone?

2008-06-19T16:49:00.001-07:00

Sorry I've taken a little hiatus from blogging. Last month as the last days of the school year ticked by, it seemed like we all took a sigh of relief for the summer to come. Summer means warmth; summer means relaxin'; summer means lazy days and no responsibilities-right? Heck no! I don't know about all of you, but we've been way busier since school ended. And Hallelujah-the warm weather finally decided to make an appearance. Our little family has had quite a busy summer thus far with t-ball games, ballet rehearsals and a production, family get togethers, Ashtyn's birthday, the circus, and a family reunion. I haven't turned the computer on much in the last couple of weeks, and when I have gotten to it, I spend all my time checking all of your blogs instead of updating my own (that always seems to be way more fun!). And to top it all off, Jim left yesterday for the next 9 days. I usually stay up late whenever Jim is gone because I start freaking myself out at every little noise during the night so I'll probably get some good blogging time in the next couple of days and update you all on our "lazy, relaxing" summer!

Oh, and by the way, that Biggest Loser competition I started a few weeks ago- just start laughing now because who has time to lose weight with all of these festivities going on. My weight loss total as of now is a whopping 3 1/2 lbs. Maybe at this rate, I'll be skinny by my 15th high school reunion instead of my 10th in 2 1/2 weeks!

Why can't everyday be like this?

2008-06-07T14:14:00.000-07:00

I love it when my girls are lovey to eachother. It makes the day go so much better. They usually all pile together on our big chair and watch cartoons together. Tillie, our cat, took Ashtyn's spot so she had to sit on the other couch.

Ashtyn's 1st T-ball Game!

2008-06-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

Ashtyn had her first t-ball game yesterday at 8:30 in the morning-it was freezing! This is her first year playing, and she loves it! She plays on a boy/girl team, and they chose the name Wild Dolphins(you know, since Dolphins are probably the friendliest fish around; not too wild!). The game was hilarious to watch as most of the kids have no idea what to do. They'll either stand in the field and watch the ball right by their feet, pick up the ball and hold it while the runner thinks he made a home-run, or hit the ball and forget to run. The other scenario is all the kids will go after one ball and wrestle on the ground to see who comes up victorious with the ball. This is mostly what Ashtyn was doing. She is very competitive and good at most things she does. T-ball was no different. While most of the kids were standing there, Ashtyn would run her fastest after every ball, even if that meant getting there and grabbing it off the ground before her teammate could get it. It got to the point where I had to yell at her to let the other kids get the ball. I love Ashtyn's confidence and "go-get-um" attitude, but sometimes it is a little too much. We've always taught her to try her best at everything she does (and she truly is really good at several things and extremely well-rounded: school, ballet, sports, singing, arts, etc.), but I'm afraid this has turned her into thinking she has to be the best! We've tried to have many talks with her that it doesn't matter who's the best, who's the winner, who's the first, etc. as long as you're working hard and having fun. How can we calm down her competiveness and attitude of having to be the best? Is this a typical first-child thing? Is is good for her to want to excel at everything? Do I need to stop this before she gets older? Or am I just overreacting?
By the way, don't you love how the t-ball shirts are always way too big. It's so cute seeing all these little kids on the field in their huge t-shirts!

One Word Tag!

2008-06-02T21:37:00.000-07:00

(Sorry-I'm having bloggers block so I relied on a good 'ole tag.)

1. Where is your cell phone?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Purse
2. Your significant other? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Understanding
3. Your hair? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dyed
4. Your mother? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christ-like
5. Your father? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Generous
6. Your favorite thing? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Food
7. Your dream last night? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scary
8. Your favorite drink? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Pepper
9. Your dream/goal? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Author
10. The room you're in? . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . .Office
11. Your hobby? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reading
12. Your fear? . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Break-in
13. Where do you want to be in six years? . . . . . . . . . . . .Post-babies
14. Where were you last night? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bike Ride
15. What you're not? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Crafty
16. Muffins? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . Yummy
17. One of your wish list items? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tummy-Tuck
18. Where you grew up? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lincoln
19. The last thing you did? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Elliptical
20. What are you wearing? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tennis Shoes
21. Your tv? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dusty
22. Your pets? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sleeping
23. Your computer? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Addicting
24. Your life? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fulfilling
25. Your mood? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tired
26. Missing someone? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Friend
27. Your car? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Yukon
28. Something your not wearing? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ring
29. Favorite store? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Expensive
30. Your summer? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Busy
31. Like someone? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Love
32. Your favorite color? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blue
33. When was the last time you laughed?. . . . . . . . . . . . . Today
34. Last time you cried? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saturday
35. Who will do this? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anyone

Memorial Day!!!

2008-05-27T12:45:00.001-07:00

The rain really put a damper on our Memorial Day festivities this year. I have always loved to visit the graves each year. I have been going with my mom for as long as I can remember. We have a lot of immediate family and friends that we always make it to, and some years we even visit my mom's extended relatives spanning many different cemetaries. I took Ashtyn this year because she seems to have gotten my love for this as well and understands the respect and honor of visiting someone's grave. We only made it to my sister's, nephew's, grandma's, grandpa's, best friend's, and fiance's on Saturday before the rain began pouring, but it was really nice to get out and take flowers to each of them.

Memorial Day seems to have become more of a vacation weekend then a remembrance weeked. I think it's sad that people would rather go camping then take a moment to pay respect to their loved ones that have passed on. I will always consider it a special holiday because I have several loved ones who are waiting on the other side that I think of constantly throughout the year, and I always look forward to visiting their graves and honoring them for touching my life. On Saturday, we had 4 generations together to visit our family members' graves: my grandpa, my mother, me, and my daughter. It is touching that my family keeps this as an important part of their lives each year, and I'm excited to carry on this tradition with my daughters.

I Will Be Victorious!

2008-05-20T16:52:00.001-07:00

Some ladies in my ward started a Biggest Loser competition for the next 6 weeks. I totally joined in so I can finally lose those last 15 pounds. It started yesterday and we have weigh in every Monday at 6:30 am. The person who loses the most every week gets $10 and whoever loses the most in six weeks gets the pot, which will probably be around $220. Hey-that's a couple new summer outfits I could get! It was funny to see all the women running around the neighborhood (myself included) yesterday morning. I totally want to win but don't know because I was the second lightest person (I guess I'm not as bad as I thought!) to weigh in. I've heard that the farther you are from your goal weight, the easier it is to lose weight at first. But I'll give it all I got because my 10 year H.S. reunion is also in about six weeks and it would be great if I could be smokin' hot to make all the boys jealous (totally kiddin' but you know what I'm talking about Britney and Heidi!). Wish me luck; keep me motivated; and please no baked goods delivered on my doorstep (that's what I'll be doing to all the other contestants!!!).

Twins???

2008-05-14T21:21:00.000-07:00

Jordyn and Avery recently had their 3rd and 2nd birthdays. It's been amazing to see these little girls grow up so close together (12 months, 2 weeks exactly!) and develop a bond with one another. They definitely have their "enemy" moments, but for the most part, they are great friends and play well together almost every day. Because they are so close in size and age, I get asked if they are twins about 3-4 times a week (pretty much whenever I go out with both of them). I don't think they look alike, but I guess strangers see something I don't. I guess it also doesn't help when I coordinate their clothes, but it's just too much fun! The girls pretty much wear the same size of clothes and shoes and like most of the same things (which doesn't help the sharing factor).

They both had their well-baby checkups today (a lady in the waiting room asked if they were twins) and the appointment just reaffirmed how close they are. Jordyn weighs 25 3/4 lbs., and Avery weighs 25 1/2 lbs. Jordyn is 36 1/2 inches, and Avery is 34 1/2 inches. I guess they really could pass for twins, and sometimes I really just want to answer yes when people ask me. Although these little girls keep me on my toes and sometimes give me headaches with the constant noise, I'm thankful they came to me when they did and have the unique personalities they do. I love them like crazy!

WHAT THE ?!?!?!?!?

2008-05-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

My security level of protecting my daughters has just becomed heightened. Ashtyn came home from school yesterday and told me, "Mom, guess what? At school, Chandler told me I was SEXY and HOT." You would think I was talking about a teenage daughter, right? NO-Ashtyn is a Kindergartner! Come on-I didn't even know kids that age knew the word sexy. After freaking out in my mind for a minute thinking how the innocence of my precious daughter was being disturbed, I asked Ashtyn, "what did you do?"

She said, "I told him we weren't supposed to say that and if he did, he would have to go to the principal's office." Then she told her teacher! Yeah Ashtyn! I guess I have taught her a few things. I guess her innocence is still in tact (at least for another day)! Even though it was an eye-opening moment for me about what is yet to come with three daughters, it was also a proud moment for me that Ashtyn handled it the way she did.

(The hole in her sock is especially sexy, don't ya think? Time to go through her drawers and get rid of the"used".)

Just like kids!

2008-05-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

Last week we all worked together to vaccinate our horses. It took quite the crew since the horses are still young and not used to people. They had to be roped and harnessed (quite the circus!!! Chance tried to jump the fence!) to get them to hold still so Trent could stick the needle in. Thanks Trent for doing most of the work and saving us a vet bill-the vaccinations were pricey enough! Thanks also to Brad and Cameron for helping hold the horses.

I held a lead rope for the first time with my horse and did better than I thought. I started freaking out when they would start to run, but Jim talked me through it and I held on. They calmed down enough for us to pet them and brush them a little. It was so great, and I'm starting to get pretty attached to these little guys! Ashtyn absolutely loves them and was able to brush them a little also last week. Jim thinks they are like our children and wants to work with them every day to raise (train) them in the particular way he wants. He is very specific with what they need to learn and how they'll learn it. He thinks he is the new horse whisperer from all the videos, books, and magazines he uses to learn the "proper techniques." I'm glad he is getting to do what he loves-I just wish he didn't have to travel so much so he could see them everyday.

Getting the horses was probably a good thing for us to postpone having more kids. I'm starting to get baby hungry (I promise nothing will happen for another year or two!!) but Jim won't even think about babies right now because he has two already. He says the horses need our time right now and would get neglected if we had a baby. He wants to focus on them and get them all trained before we even think about a baby. Maybe this is God's way of giving us the sons we'll never have! I know-a long stretch but at least they are male!

Gotta Love Girls!!!

2008-04-25T15:28:00.000-07:00

Ashtyn had a couple of friends over after school for a princess party! They couldn't have their tea party until they were dressed-up, made-up, accessorized, and perfumed. How adorable! Girls are so easily entertained and have been up there for hours playing together. I never mind Ashtyn having a friend over because it actually makes my job a little easier. I don't totally ignore them the whole time, but I do let them have their space without Mom while I get a few things done around the house. Like updating my blog-hasn't that become a new household chore?

Happy Birthday Jordyn!!!

2008-04-22T14:33:00.000-07:00

Jordyn turned 3 today!!! I can't believe how fast the years have gone! We are so blessed and happy to have Jordy in our family. She is such a character and has the most infectious laugh. We always tell her to laugh because it is one of those genuine, make's everyone else laugh, adorable laugh each and every time. I just did a post on her a couple of weeks ago so I won't share a lot, just that we love her like crazy and think she is beautiful. We call her our little precious moments doll because she looks like one (this is a picture of her on her 2nd b-day). Her big loves right now are Dora, silly songs, riding her bike, and helping Mommy!

Is it a sign?

2008-04-21T14:48:00.000-07:00

We've had our house for sale for a while now and have had a ton of hits, but no sales. Could it be because our sign keeps blowing down? We've gone through about 7 signs in the last couple of months because they keep blowing away. We've tried a couple different frames, signs, and even placement to try and prevent this from happening again. I keep telling Jim that if our sign blows down again, we are going to stay here and not sell. We always end up buying another one. So I have to ask, do you think it's a sign that our sign keeps blowing away. Are we meant to just stay in this house and in this neighborhood? It's getting so frusrating, not to mention expensive with all the signs we keep buying. AAAHHH!!!!!

Motivation!!!

2008-04-17T21:09:00.000-07:00

Ok-so I think I just got the motivation I need to FINALLY get my butt in gear and FINALLY stick to a work-out/diet program. Our family went to see our horses tonight and I always get cold so I had about 5 layers on, including a bulky jacket. Then we had to run to the store so I was not looking my best (hay in my hair; ugly jacket on). I saw a girl from my ward there and she came up and said, "Ok- I have to be nosy. Are you pregnant cause your stomach is stickin' out." Awesome!!!! I looked down and did look quite pregnant cause my jacket's zipper made a natural, poke-out curve right on my stomach (not to mention the extra fat underneath-I swear having kids 12 months apart ruins your body forever. My stomach will never return to normal until after the tummy tuck that I'm totally planning on having after I'm done having kids).

I actually like to work-out but only will do it if I go to the gym. I'm not much of work-out-at-home girl; I always end up finding other things to do. The only problem with this is that Jim goes out of town a lot-he just got back from being gone for 6 days. I'll do really good for a couple of weeks, and then Jim goes out-of-town and I lose all motivation because I can't get to the gym. I know, Excuses, Excuses!!! I could take all my kids to the gym daycare, but when it breaks out with hand-foot-and-mouth disease every year, I don't even want to get near.

So anyway, whether Jim's home or not, I've got my clothes set out for tomorrow morning, my slim-in-6 dvd in the player (I love this workout!!!), and my resistance bands ready to go. The "pregnant" comment was just the kick in the butt that I needed. I'm probably the only person this has happened to since all the rest of you are so naturally tiny. Have I mentioned I hate you all!!!!

Christine's Cat Catastrophe

2008-04-14T20:03:00.001-07:00

I am feeling quite awful today. Last night I ran over my friend's cat! It was around 9:30 and pretty dark so I barely saw it dash out in front of my tires. I wasn't even going that fast because I had just stopped at a stop sign and was starting to gain speed again. I tried to slam on my breaks but I hit it anyway. I was so shaken up and it took me about 10 minutes to muster up the courage to go knock on her door. The cat had ran off and collapsed on a driveway a couple houses down, and I wasn't sure if it was hers but thought I would start there. We walked down and sure enough, it was her's. I immediately started crying and think I cried worse than she did. She was so nice about it, but I feel completely awful-especially for her kids who were already in bed and would have to find out this morning. Of course Jim is out-of-town so I didn't have anyone to cry to all night, which I did! I see this friend all the time and feel so awful.

Has this happened to anyone else? What did you do? I tried to call her today to see how everyone took the news, and I also wanted to take her over something I got for the kids, but I don't know what else to do. I also offered to buy them a new cat but she just called and said they aren't going to get another cat until they move out of this subdivision. This is their 2nd cat in a year and a half to get ran over (that makes me feel so much better). I think her husband is mad at me because he thinks I was driving too fast, but I swear I wasn't going more than 15-18 mph. How am I going to look at this friend in the future and not think about killing her cat? Any suggestions.....

ABC's of ME

2008-04-03T12:29:00.001-07:00

I've been tagged-thanks Amberlee!

A-Attached or Single? attached
B-Best Friend? Jim (does anybody dare not to put their husband?)
C-Cake or Pie? cake (yellow is my favorite!!)
D-Day of Choice? Saturday (usually means Jim will be home)
E-Essential Item? chapstick and baby wipes
F-Favorite Color? pink, blue, and chocolate brown
G-Gummy bears or worms? worms (I prefer the green and white ones)
H-Hometown? Idaho Falls
I-Favorite Indulgence? brownies, Milky Ways
J-January or July? July (does anyone like January?)
K-Kids? Ashtyn (5 1/2), Jordyn (almost 3), Avery (almost 2)
L-Life isn't complete without? family and gospel
M-Marriage date? December 16, 2000 (It was freezing!!!)
N-Number of brothers and sister? 2 brothers, 2 sisters
O-Oranges or apples? apples (only because I hate peeling oranges)
P-Phobia or fears? spiders, mountain lions, strangers breaking in my house while Jim is out of town (not that he could hear them when he's sleeping anyway)
Q-Quote? "It is never too late to become what you could have been"
R-Reason to smile? 3 beautiful girls
S-Season of choice? Summer-I am always cold!
T-Tag 3 people: Christine, Calli, Heidi
U-Unknown facts about me? I'm a little OCD in some areas (loading the dishwasher, silverware organization in the drawers, shoes in my closet, hangers all facing the same way and organized according to color and sleeve length-I know, I'm such a nerd-I even do it with Jim's shirts)
V-Vegetable? peas, green beans, cauliflower-I like most of them!
W-Worst habit? chewing my fingernails, and EATING!!! (you would think I'd be full from the fingernails! J/K-how gross!)
X-X-ray or ultrasound? ultrasound
Y-Your favorite food? pasta, sandwiches, candy (does that count as a food?)
Z-Zodiac sign? Scorpio

Ashtyn and Jordyn

2008-04-01T15:23:00.000-07:00

I'm finally doing the tag of Ashtyn and Jordyn (sorry it's taken so long Amberlee!). What can I say? Ashtyn and Jordyn have been different from the very start. Ashtyn was a very calm, happy, non-crying baby. Jordyn was a crier from day one and wanted to be held all the time (maybe she knew she'd only have 12 short months before Avery kicked her out of the baby position).

Ashtyn has always loved an audience and even when she was small, used to do the silliest things just to make people laugh.

Jordyn has always been shy around people and is usually attached to Mommy's leg in a crowd. She is finally starting to come out of her shell and enjoy other people.

Ashtyn is my pickiest eater while Jordyn is my best. Ashtyn loves anything unhealthy (chips, candy, fries, junk) and has been a meat and potato girl since she got her first teeth. Jordyn likes anything healthy and loves vegetables. She doesn't eat a lot of meat and doesn't like chips or fries (can this child really be mine?) She is also my best at trying new things. Ashtyn won't touch anything that is mixed up, saucy, or isn't plain or bland. If it looks weird or has more than a couple of ingredients in it, she won't eat it (frustrating!!!).

Ashtyn and Jordyn have both been early learners. Ashtyn walked at 9 1/2 months and was potty-trained at 22 months. Her first word was Elmo at 7 months and she hasn't stopped talking. She knew her ABC's, colors, and letters really early and is now reading in Kindergarten ( I can't believe she's almost 6). One of my favorite memories is Ashtyn's early love for country music. Before she was even two, she had all the country guys memorized and had a crush on Keith Urban. If we sang a song or heard one on the radio, she knew who sang it. We would ask her, "who sings 'itty bitty' and she'd say 'Alan Jackson', or 'who sings 'Live like you were dying' and she'd say 'Tim McGraw'. " Her memory is amazing and we used to always make her peform that talent in front of people. She still remembers small details from years ago that I can't even remember.

Jordyn walked at 12 months and was potty-trained at 26 months. Her first word was deer (we were at Sportsman's Warehouse and Daddy was so proud). She has also turned into quite the gabber. She talks and sings all day long (especially in the car), and sometimes Mommy has to say be quiet just to get a moment of silence to think clearly. Jordyn also knows her numbers, ABC's, colors and loves songs. She is so excited to go to pre-school this fall and always talks about going to school with her Pooh Bear backpack. She loves to be included as a big girl and trys her hardest to do what the big kids are doing.

Ashtyn has always been pretty obedient and respectful (until the last few months when she's turned into a pre-teen. I swear the drama in our house has risen, and I hope this stage will pass soon). But she is still a great helper to Mom and loves anything to do with babies. She says every day that she wants to be a Mom and I know she's got that natural "nurturer" instinct in her. She is also very compassionate like her Mom and crys when someone else is hurting. She has that deep empathy where she can feel other's pain. Last week she wanted to watch the Testamants and cryed the whole time they were nailing Jesus to the cross. She is very tender-hearted and has started getting embarrassed more.

Jordyn is my most stubborn child and does not like to be disciplined or told what to do. I can just imagine some of our "power struggles" in the future. She hates picking up her toys but is also my most lovey child. She is a total Mama's girl and always wants to be where I am. Jorde loves to snuggle and help me cook, clean, and do the laundry. I can totally see her as a Mom who is always baking and doing projects around the house. She loves to paint and do crafts that have small details and require a lot of focus. I think she has her Daddy's smart mind that is always going and analyzing things.

Ashtyn and Jordyn play really well together (although they have their moments) and are good at entertaining themselves (especially on Sunday afternoons when Mommy and Daddy take naps!) Ashtyn loves to act like Jorde's mom and dress her up in fancy clothes and do her hair. It's so cute to watch them get ready together. They'll be playing together and Jordyn always asks, "Ashtyn, are you my Mommy?"

I couldn't imagine life without both of my sweet girls. I sometimes tease and say we should have stopped at one so we wouldn't mess up perfection (Ashtyn has pretty much been my angel child) but I wouldn't change either of them for anything. Jordyn's spunk and sense of humor makes me laugh everyday. Sometime when I'm having a grouchy day, I'll just listen to Jordyn and instantly feel happier. Like the other day when she was singing "Baa baa black sheep" and sang "one for the little girl who lives down the drain".

I am thankful for my beautiful girls and feel so blessed. Anytime things get a little crazy, hormonal, whiny, or have too much drama, I just have to remind myself that this is exactly what I've been wanting my whole life. To have all daughters and a house filled with the love and innocence of children.

Lovin' our babies!

2008-03-26T21:37:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd post some pictures of the colts I've been talking about that we bought over Christmas. They are still in Rexburg because they were just weaned from their mamas. We try to go see them every other weekend until we bring them here, but it had been over a month since we had seen them. I can't believe how much bigger they are! They are so dang cute.

My horse is the lighter one on top, and Jim's is the buckskin on the bottom. Isn't he gorgeous? Jim has always wanted a buckskin and this is one of the prettiest shaped colts I've seen. Out of the ten colts we could choose from, Jim immediately saw him and wanted him. I've always wanted a Palamino and this was the lightest horse of the bunch. He's way friendly and loves to eat! Jordyn always tells me, "Mama, your horse is a pig" cause every time we go to see them, mine just keeps eating from our hands the whole time. I think that is why I was drawn to him-Gotta Love Our Food! I also like mine because he has blond highlights in his mane and white stockings on his feet!

Even though raising colts is going to be a lot of work, I'm so excited to start with them young. I've always loved horses but have been really afraid of them. I don't know if it's because they are so powerful and majestic, or because my friend in sixth grade was drug to death by one. I want to get over my fear and think being around them early will totally help. My girls absolutely love them and always beg to "go see the horses". Even little Jordyn and Avery aren't scared of them and feed the horses from their hands. I'm so happy that my girls can have this experience growing up and learn love and responsibility for the horses.

I'm finding myself getting caught up in the whole "horse" thing and wouldn't even mind having land so they could be right on our property outside the back door. I would love to be able to take the girls out each day and work with the horses. Heck, maybe I'll let Jim have his dream by getting a ranch someday. It would be a big adjustment, but I think I could get used to the lifestyle and love it. Except for the Wranglers part-my Wrangler BUTT would not drive anyone NUTTS!

I can't decide what to name mine. Horses are way harder to name than kids. Jim is thinking of Chance for his. Any suggestions?

Enchanted Easter!!

2008-03-25T14:49:00.000-07:00

Easter was great this year! It was just our little family and very relaxing. The girls went to Grandma's Easter egg hunt on Saturday and had a fun time trying to find their eggs using the clues Grandma had drawn. Sunday started early since we have to be to church at 8:40, so the girls got to peek in their baskets and really dive in after we got home. They looked adorable in their pastel dresses! Mommy gave them the Enchanted movie and we all watched it together after church (even Jim laughed a few times and thought it was clever-I absolutely LOVE it!!)

We all took a nap, ate a yummy dinner, and then made Easter sugar cookies. I kind of feel bad that it was basically like any other Sunday, but it was just what we needed. We read a few Easter stories and talked about Jesus' resurrection so the girls understood what Easter is really about! I found this scene after I woke up on Sunday afternoon.

(Poor Jordyn took forever to fall asleep and tried to come in and tell me that her hands were messy, but I didn't want to open my eyes and told her to go find daddy. She had eaten her chocolate bunny while we were sleeping and since no one would get up to help her, she finally fell asleep with her hands in the air so she wouldn't get anything dirty. They were covered in chocolate! Aren't I a great mother?)

Happy Birthday Babe!

2008-03-21T13:27:00.000-07:00

It was Jim's birthday on Wednesday and even though this is a couple of days late, I still wanted to wish him a Happy Birthday. Last year on his 30th b-day, he was alone on business and didn't have anyone to celebrate it with. So this year was definitely better because he was home with us!

We bought a couple of colts around Christmas, and Jim wanted "horse stuff" for his birthday. So the girls and I went to Vickers (Western store) to pick something out. Yeah right! First of all, shopping with Avery is a nightmare (especially when she poops, hides in the clothes, runs off, and pulls all the horse shampoo bottles off the shelf). Second, I have no clue about taking care of horses and what they need. I don't know the right sizes of halters, bits, lead ropes, and anything else just to get them in the trailor. I couldn't even pick out a brush without help. Jim wants to get some cowboy boots and a hat to get back to his roots (I've been clearing out that part of his wardrobe since we got married!) but I didn't dare pick those out either. So sorry Babe! I tried and ended up leaving with a gift card and a poopy, sticky toddler (the sales clerk gave them suckers!!).

Jim is the greatest husband ever. I know he is the only man I could have married. He is such a great father and absolutely adores his little girls. He always thinks of his family first and sacrifices a lot of his time and hobbies to spend time with us. He is surrounded by females and I know there are times when he'd rather be fishing, but he stays with us and supports us through everything (even Ashtyn's ballet peformances twice a year where he has to watch men dance in tights). Jim knows when Mommy is about to go crazy and always tries to let me have some time away whether it is a girls weekend out of town, working out at the gym, or even a late night run to Walmart.

Jim has never been afraid to change a poopy diaper, give the girls a bath, wipe a snotty nose, watch a princess/barbie movie, or read countless books to show his love for his daughters. I am so appreciative that he helps out as much as he does. He definitely makes my job a lot easier (although for the life of him, he absolutely cannot do hair-not even a pony tail).

Jim is one of the hardest workers I know. He often puts in 50-60 hours of work every week. He is a very dedicated and reliable employee and does his job the best he can. I am so thankful I'm able to stay home with the kids knowing how hard Jim works to provide a nice living for his family. His greatest dream would be to wake up every day and get on the back of a horse at his ranch. But he has put that on hold while I get more "accustomed" to the idea.

I love you babe! Thanks for always making me feel loved and beautiful (even though I don't feel like it). Thanks for giving up countless hours of "guy fun" to spend time with your girls. Thanks for being your little girls' hero, prince, teacher, horsey, and dancing partner. We look forward every day for when you come home!

(I couldn't find a picture of just Jim, so the first is one with his Grandma from New Mexico last summer. It is one of my favorites 'cause I think he looks really cute!)

Sunshine and Snowboardin'

2008-03-17T22:18:00.001-07:00

Jim and I went snowboarding together (finally!) on Saturday and had a blast. It was 40 degrees and totally sunny. We ended up taking off our hats, coats, and even gloves because we were so hot. Jim has the funniest sunburn on his face. He wore goggles cause it was so bright and totally looks like he still has them on. We are both still getting the hang of boarding but made a major improvement. I caught my back edge and biffed it hard twice. I mean head slamming the ground, hat and glasses flying off, me just laying there to get my bearings. I have been so sore the last couple of days, especially my neck. I think I got a good case of whiplash but it was still dang fun. Of course I forgot my camera, but I'll have to post a picture of our new boards when I take one-they are way sweet! By the way, new boards are especially slippery and fast! Be warned!

We had a fun weekend because the girls were at a sleepover at Grandma's (thanks Mom!). Jim and I went to a movie (10,000 B.C.-it was good) Friday night and spent Saturday together in Driggs (looking at a house we're interested in) and then boardin'. It's so good to spend time together without the kids every once in a while.

All About Avery!!!

2008-03-11T21:58:00.000-07:00

Avery was tagged by her friend Elle Eaton! Elle's mommy was my girls' awesome baby-sitter while Mommy worked for about five months. Avery misses her like crazy and whenever the doorbell rings, she runs to the the door and yells, "Kara's here!".

We were so excited when Avery came out with lots of dark hair. She didn't keep it very long, but we thought she was a beautiful baby. Although she came as a suprise only 12 months after Jordyn, Mommy was so excited to be having another girl. She was our smallest baby at 6 pounds and was so delicate and sweet!
Avery has always been a very happy, smiley, playful baby! She didn't sleep very good for about the first 5 weeks, but then she turned into my best sleeper and still takes a 3-4 hour nap every day.

Avery has loved to eat since day one and will eat just about anything. The only time she was ever grouchy as a baby was because she was hungry. After some food, she was happy as can be again. She's also my messiest eater! She loves to rub yogurt in her hair and smash food between her fingers. Her favorite foods are bananas, grapes, spaghetti, ham, chicken, soup, and tootsie rolls!
Avery has an extreme passion for shoes. She tries on 3-4 different pair everyday. It doesn't matter if they are mine, her's, Jordyn's, Ashytn's, or Daddy's. She's not picky! She started trying them on when she was about 9 months old and hasn't given it up. She walks down the stairs in Ashtyn's dress-up shoes better than Mommy walks in heels. Since she's always so happy, if we ever heard Avery whining or getting upset as a baby, I immediately knew she was trying to get shoes on and was having a hard time. I was always right! Now she's a master at it, buckles and all, and was even trying to tie laces today when she put on a pair of Ashtyn's friend's shoes.
Avery is the busiest baby I have ever seen. The only time she lays or sits down is when she's sleeping, playing a certain game, or eating (which after about 5 minutes, she stands in her high chair). We always tease that we got a boy, and his name is Avery. She gets into every drawer, cupboard, and anything else she can pull out, dump, scatter, or make a mess. I never had to baby-proof my house because my other girls were never into this, but Avery doesn't stay still for a second. She is really good at entertaining herself, but Mommy gets tired trying to keep up with her and clean up her messes. Luckily, she likes to clean up now and sings, "clean up, everybody clean up" to herself.
Avery is very playful and mischevious! She loves to make people laugh and will put on quite the show if she has an audience. She loves being chased, playing hide & seek, peek-a-boo, and dancing. She is such a fun little girl and always keeps a happy mood in the house. Avery has been a very early talker and will say anything we say. Her vocabulary is amazing! She loves books and songs, and loves to sing. At only 22 months, she can count to 12, knows her ABC's, and sings tons of songs almost word-for-word. At her 18-month check-up, she sang "I am a Child of God" to the doctor, and he was blown away. Her current favorite song is "Learn of Me", a Young Women's song I started singing to her a couple of months ago. It has three long versus plus the melody, and she knows the whole thing. She also loves the "Sound of Music" and sings "Eidle Vise(?)" and "So do la fa me do re". She also love the "Enchanted" Soundtrack, Brooks & Dunn, and Taylor Swift. Whenever we get into the car, she always says, "I want that stupid 'ole pick-up truck". It is so dang cute to hear her sing, and we make her do it all the time!
Avery is one of the sweetest, happiest, most fun babies I know. I can't believe she is growing up so fast. Even though she can get a little sassy sometimes and bully her older sister Jordyn (hey-they're 12 months apart. They are either best friends or enemies!), she loves her sisters and they love playing together! While Ashtyn is at school and before Avery takes a nap, she and Jordyn usually play together every afternoon. Most of the time it is fun, innocent play, but sometimes they can be double troube. Like the time they climbed onto the table and ate all the cheetos, or the time they scooped all of the toilet water out of the potty and were swimming in it on the bathroom floor. They keep things rolling!!!!

We love you Avery, and even though you were an unexpected suprise, we know you were meant to be here at this time. You have brought so much love, happiness, and smiles to our lives. (And a ton of craziness, too! Could you maybe just want to snuggle all day with Mom tomorrow and not make any messes? I'm feeling a little tired!)

Avery tags Olivia Thomason and Max Loveless!

I want a job with perks!

2008-03-07T12:35:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I wish I had my husband's job. Not the stressful, building of software, pressure of deadlines, management of people part, but the traveling and luxury part. Jim has been traveling quite a bit lately, and mostly to warm, sunny climates. He made me take this picture of him shoveling snow the day he left for Pheonix a few weeks ago. The other picture is him in Pheonix a few hours later. He put the pictures in his presenation to let the clients know how happy he was to be there. He's also been to California a couple of times, Chicago, Salt Lake, and soon to be in Dallas and Florida. Sometimes I wish our roles were reversed so I'd be the one on a plane to some warm destination, eating at nice restaurants, and sleeping at the Mariott. Jim says I'd get sick of traveling like he does and just want to be at home, but I think it would be quite a while before that happened!

Bodily Fluids Overload

2008-02-28T07:39:00.000-08:00

Ok-so yesterday Avery woke up covered in throwup. Today she woke up covered in diarrhea: up to her neck; in her toes; all over her blankets! Poor little girl-I don't know if this is connected to the chicken pox or if she has some sort of stomach bug. So into the bath she goes with little floating poop pieces allover, and I get to wash bedding AGAIN. It's not just changing the sheets mind you; it's untying all the bumper pad strings, taking out the mattress, washing the sheets, the mattress pads, the blankets, and the stuffed animals that she sleeps with. And then I get to put it all together again before she goes for a nap in a couple of hours!

Sorry for blogging about bodily funtions, but as most of you know, this is just a day in the life of a mom! I'm so excited to get out of bed tomorrow to see what suprise I'll find in Avery's bed. The anticipation is killing me! I think I'll start a new blog series: "The Chronicles of Crap and Other Yummy Fluids." Do you think it will be a hit?

I took this picture a while ago, but it looks like she's in the perfect "crouch mode" for dropping a load so I had to put it on here.

Mommy needs a Vacation!!!

2008-02-27T08:17:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd add to the craziness of the last few weeks. As if we haven't had enough. Avery woke up at 5:30 a.m. covered in throw-up (I thought we were done with that last week). Avery finally fell back asleep (in my bed) about 7:00 but then Jordyn came down and got in my bed and woke up Avery. They've been playing ever since, and I haven't been sleeping. Since Jim is out-of-town, I did my usual stay up 'til 2:00 a.m. so I got 3 1/2 hours of sleep. Yeah!

But I did learn one thing from the throwing up a couple of weeks ago: Chunks do not dissolve in the washer! So I was scraping the sheets, blankets, jammies, and elmo stuffed doll this morning with a spoon to get the chunks off before washing everything. Let's just say I don't have much of an appetite this morning (which could be another good thing!).

Happy Wednesday!!!

My Paper Dolls

2008-02-26T22:15:00.000-08:00

Do you ever find yourselves living vicariously through your kids? This has become my favorite thing to do. I love to shop-not for me because I'm way self-conscious and think I look too fat in everything, but for my girls. All the fashions and styles I wish I could wear I buy for my girls. Poor things-they are probably sweating in their thick sweaters and furry boots, but I can't resist. I put them through all kinds of torture: matching hats and hairbows; different shoes with each outfit; winter tights with snowflakes and sparkly stripes; poofy GAP coats with fur-trimmed hoods; flared jeans with rhinestone embellishments; mini-skirts and sundresses; little bikinis where their fat tummies stick out; the list goes on and on. Every time I see Ashtyn's little butt in cute jeans, I think "why can't my hiney look that good?"

Honestly, I find so many cute things in the baby section that I'd want to wear. Can they make that in my size? Umm....Except for the bikinis and mini-skirts. I don't think anybody wants to see my jiggly stomach and thighs hanging out.

It's been a while....

2008-02-24T16:16:00.000-08:00

I apologize for my lengthy retreat. Between an entire sick family with influenza and a computer bogged down with viruses, I haven't been able to blog. Let me tell you it's been hell! I almost had to check myself into a medical facility for withdrawal symptoms. And not from being absent from my own blog, but from being away from all of yours. I felt like I was missing everyone else's reality.

Anyway, I promise to do better this week after I download the pictures from my camera. And if my cat leaves me alone. Every time I sit at the desk, she jumps up and plops right in front of the computer so I can't see. I have to scoot her over, and then she sits and watches me for the rest of the time. I swear, if one of my kids isn't hanging on me, it's the cat. AAAHHHH!!!

Oh yeah, did I mention that Avery has chicken pox? And I just found spots on Ashtyn and Jordyn. What a year!!!!

Wishing away Winter!

2008-02-06T16:09:00.000-08:00

(My little family on a 4-wheeler ride last summer in the mountains. We stopped at a little spring to cool off, swig some gatorade, and snap a picture for posterity.)
Oh how I wish for sunny weather and snowless days. I wish my little family was in the mountains right now on a warm, summer day instead of curled up by the fireplace trying to stay warm. Don't get me wrong, I love living in a place where we get to witness the four seasons at their best, but this particular one has overstayed it's welcome at my house. We just received 6 inches of snow last night and are expected to receive 4-5 more tonight (on top of the tons of snow we already have-I think there is close to 4 feet in our backyard).

And of course Jim is out of town; thanks to my Dad and neighbor for plowing me out this morning. Can you imagine me and my three girls loaded up on the 4-wheeler in all of our fat snow clothes trying to figure out the blade to plow the driveway? I guess I could resort to the perfectly capable snow shovel, but who wants to get that much exercise in one afternoon. We have a very long driveway!

I'm thankful for all the snow we've received as our reservoirs will be full this spring and our farmers will have enough water for their crops. It is also so beautiful outside with the land blanketed in a glistening snow. I should hardly complain since the Lord is blessing us, but I am longing for the days when I can complain that it is too hot because my legs are sticking to the leather seats in my car. Will I ever be happy?

Book of Mormon Challenge

2008-02-04T16:42:00.001-08:00

To honor President Hinckley, a challenge has been made to read the Book of Mormon in 97 days. To be honest, I have never read the entire Book of Mormon. I have started it a thousand times but have never completed it. I have had such strong feelings these past few years that I need to read it, but I've let a million things (and excuses) get in the way.

I am excited and completely DETERMINED to achieve this goal and take on the challenge. I was so touched watching President Hinckley's funeral, and with tears rolling down my face, I felt in my heart that I need to do better to follow his great example and stand a little taller. I had an overwhelming feeling to go to the temple more, as it would have a direct effect on my becoming a better mother. I just felt so many different emotions during the funeral that I know need to be acted upon.

I am thankful for a loving prophet, who even in is death, has continued to inspire me and touch my life. Last month when I was writing my New Year's Resolutions, I decided this would be the year to have my testimony and spiritual growth my #1 priority. Yes, I need to lose weight. Yes, I need to stop biting my fingernails. Yes, I need to me a better mother, wife, and homemaker.......But in order to do all of this, I first need to recognize that I am a Child of God, and he loves me. I need to find a way to love myself so I can love and serve others the best I can-I think the key is in my own spiritual journey.

I hope all of you can strengthen your own testimonies in some way this year, also. I hope you will all rededicate your lives to living the example our great prophet has shown us. There has never been a better time than now. Jim and I recently heard a quote that we both loved: "It is never too late to become what you could have been."

I'm sure some of us will fall short at times; feel inadequate or think we can't possibly do anymore. I'm sure some of us will have small successes along the way; little moments of growth that will change us forever. But along the way, if we support eachother and remember we are not alone, I think it will be a really great year! If you want to take on this challenge with me, go to http://www.hinckleychallenge.com/ and let me know so we can do it together. Good Luck!

In his loving arms...

2008-01-28T11:45:00.000-08:00

What an amazing man! I was so sad to hear of President Hinckley's passing yesterday. Jim and I both shed tears over the great love we have for him. He truly is a prophet of God, and has touched so many with his gentle manner. We will miss him, but I'm so happy that he is once again in the arms of his sweet wife. I'm sure they are sharing their own glorious moment of peace and happiness.

Crazy!!!

2008-01-23T15:32:00.000-08:00

I think this is so sad! I really liked Heath as an actor-I love Ten Things I Hate About You. I feel so bad for his little daughter. He obviously loved her so much and she looks so much like him. Whether it was a drug overdose or not, this seems to be happening more and more. When is the world going to get a clue on the dangers of drugs-prescription or illegal? They are both dangerous!

Sad situations like these always put things into perspective to make sure you tell your loved ones how you feel. Too bad mine is on a plane right now heading to Texas! Hopefully he already knows how much I love him, but I'll tell him again when he calls tonight.

Three Amigos!

2008-01-22T16:12:00.000-08:00

I swore I'd never be one of those moms who dressed their kids alike. But it is just way too cute not to-especially having 3 girls. I usually only have them in coordinating colors but these overalls were too adorable to pass up. (Notice the slight difference in their pink shirts. Hey, they have to have a little uniqueness, don't they?) By the way, age 5 is way worse than terrible two's! Ashtyn decided to have an attitude and not smile. Oh how I look forward to the teenage years!

Writer's strike rediculous!

2008-01-21T16:31:00.000-08:00

This writer's strike is getting pretty dang annoying. I keep forgetting it's happening until I go to check my DVR for the latest episode of Desperate Housewive's (I'll repent later!!) and nothing is recorded. I know this sounds pretty lame, but I actually look forward to the show every Sunday night for a little escape from reality before Monday starts with all of the craziness of a new week. If every actor donated one of their cars or 10 pair of designer shoes to the writers, maybe they could get something worked out. COME ON, there are people starving all over this world, and Hollywood alone has enough money to change that. What's up?

Kids' Christmas 2007

2008-01-15T12:55:00.001-08:00

All Bundled Up!

2008-01-03T17:03:00.000-08:00

Help! I can't move! Little kids in snowsuits are so dang cute. Jordyn liked it for a little while, then felt a little too constricted and wanted it off. Idaho is so dang cold that to enjoy the snow, one must wear layer after layer as to resemble the little brother in "The Christmas Story". Hey, at least it's not a bunny suit

The Hassman Nativity

2008-01-03T16:51:00.000-08:00

I've decided this is as close to Angel as Avery is going to get. The children in our family dress up for the Nativity Scene every year, and Avery played the part of Angel. Too bad she has been acting like a little devil lately. I seriously think she is just too smart and gets bored so easily. She's into everything, and now she throws attitude into everything. She can talk better than most 2 1/2 year-olds, knows her ABC's, counts to 11, and sings several songs including "I am a Child of God". I don't know what to do with her 'cause she's do dang cute, but sometimes I want to slip a little tranquilizer into her sippy cup (not really for all of you who are worried about an impending breakdown-I'm Fine!).

Ashtyn was Mary, and Jordyn was the tiny little shepard with the white head piece and brown headband. She kept saying "I'm a wiseman". Who do you think enjoyed this little play more, the kids or the parents?

Whirlwind Christmas

2007-12-29T11:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas was great this year! The girls were so excited to see that Santa had come (well, Ashtyn was. Jordyn was mad that we woke her up, and Avery was just happy as usual). It was so fun to open presents and watch their reactions! To all those who had a nice, calm, relaxing Christmas, I'm a little envious. We've been back and forth from Rexburg and I.F. trying to fit in both families. It's been so great to see everyone (Jim's family from Texas and Utah are here), and I'm so thankful to have such close families on both sides, it's just a little hectic trying to fit it all in. But I'm still in my jammies right now, and I wouldn't have wanted to miss any family. It was so great for the girls to see all of their cousins, and Jim's family is always so much fun. I'll post more pictures of the festivities when I have more time. Right now I need to go shower so we can head up to Rexburg again!

Scarlet Fever Anyone?

2007-12-21T16:51:00.000-08:00

Ashtyn hasn't been feeling well since Tuesday, and I finally took her in yesterday after looking in her mouth with a flashlight and finding all sorts of yummy germs. Turns out she has Scarlet Fever! I know, I know....you are probably thinking about the mobs of people Scarlet Fever used to kill back in the day. I was a little shocked myself, but not to worry, it's not as bad as most people think as long as it is treated (which, back in the day, their was no treatment for anything). It is basically a severe form a strep throat that has progressed to a bumpy red rash allover. What a great Mom I am to have let it progress! They're treating her with a strong dose of antibiotics, and we're supposed to stay out of public for a few days. I think Ashtyn felt worse about missing the family Christmas party with her cousins than the actual sickness. Poor girl-I felt so bad for her (me too, since I also didn't get to go!!).

She's feeling a lot better today, but to our utter joy (not), now Jordyn has strep throat, and I'm sure Avery is on her way since she had a slight fever before her nap. Lucky us! A house full of antibiotics that taste gross and make for some yummy toilet/diaper experiences! Wish us luck! As long as the girls are better for Christmas, I won't complain. Especially since we have some of Jim's family coming to town to stay with us for Christmas. (Did I mention one of them is only 3 weeks old-they might want to consider a hotel.)

I hope this finds you all a little healthier than my house is right now. Warning to the wise: don't come near our house-it is full of nasty, little grinch germs that are trying to take away the Christmas magic. We will conquer!

Santa Claus Meltdown

2007-12-18T21:06:00.000-08:00

Avery has been loving Santa Claus this year and points to everything with a picture of him, gets excited, and says "Sanna Claus". It is so dang cute! We took the kids to the Mall a couple of weeks ago to sit on Santa's lap. Ashtyn wasn't shy at all, but seeing him in person (instead of on a kitchen towel) made Jordyn and Avery a little nervous. The only way to get them on his lap was for me to sit on it also. I guess I caught the Christmas spirit and the whole idea of why we sit on Santa's lap because my wish list just started spewing from my mouth. "Forget what my kids want, Santa, what about me?" I want; I want; I need; I need......

Ipod
True Religion jeans
New perfume
Snow board
Elliptical
Maid
Cook
Nanny
10 fewer pounds
Bigger boobs
Smaller butt
Tummy Tuck
Makeover
Shopping spree to dress my new, HOT self
I don't sound vain at all, do I?

The list goes on and on, and mall security was finally called to force me off Santa' lap. I threw a terrible tantrum ("I wasn't finished; Let me speak") and made an embarrasing scene, but hey, I bet it will pay off on Christmas morning when my new boobs are under the tree.

Of course I didn't act like such a brat, but the memories of me as a child sitting on Santa's lap came flooding back. My list is actually not that big this year as I feel pretty blessed to have so many wonderful things in my life. Most importantly, my family-my great husband and adorable daughters. I'm also thankful for a loving Savior who paid the ultimate price for me to be happy and able to return to him one day. I think teaching my children about Christ is the greatest gift I could ever give them. What a better time than Christmas to feel of his spirit all around and share his love with others.

Hope all of you are feeling the spirit of Christmas as the last week is upon us and the mad dash to get everything done sets in. Good Luck!

Anniversary Getaway

2007-12-16T21:44:00.000-08:00

It is Jim and I's 7th anniversary today (Love you, Babe!), and we just got home from a getaway weekend to Salt Lake. This has kind of become our tradition the last few years. We leave our kids with Grandma (thanks a bunch, Mom), stay in a nice hotel for a couple of days, and do whatever we feel like for the weekend. This year we ate at some cool restaurants, went to the spa for facials (Jim's motto is "don't knock it 'til you've tried it") and a pedicure for me, went shopping at the malls and Cabella's, worked out together (the best since we never get to), drove around looking at the gorgeous houses and Christmas lights, and just hung out, slept in, and laughed a lot. It was so great to be just the two of us again. A couple needs that every so often to remind each other why they fell in love and to get a fresh perspective on their marriage. I recommend it to all!

Recovery Week

2007-12-12T14:05:00.000-08:00

Now that ballet week is over, I'm finding myself very tired, lazy, and lacking in motivation. Ashtyn has gone to church and two days of school with straight hair; the cleaning supplies have been in the bathroom unused for five days; the presents are yet to be wrapped; and I've only cooked two nights this week. The one good thing is that I've gone to the gym every morning and spent more down-time with the kids.

The Nutcracker was amazing, and Ashtyn was so dang cute and really good. The Utah Regional Ballet Company (professional dancers) performed with the kids to make it a really awesome show-even my Dad enjoyed it! Ashtyn's dream is to be a professional dancer, and I know she has the talent to do so. The director of the pro. dancers even commented how good Ashtyn was for her age. Yeah-I'll have to keep in contact so they'll remember her when she gets older. Here are the costumes Ashtyn wore!

Ashtyn was a little girl in the party scene who got her bear taken away, then danced with all the other little girls at the party!

Ashtyn was an overture princess dancing for Clara at the Land of Sweets.

Ashtyn was a Madomoiselle and got to come out of Madame Ginger's big skirt to peform her dance. This was definitely the cutest!

I'm surprised how well Ashtyn survived the week. Ballet is truly her passion!

This is what I did to her hair five times last week (not including switching it to a bun mid-performance).

Before After

Ashtyn has thick hair and a lot of it so the whole process took me a couple of hours each time! Jim cleaned our bathroom last night (what a great hubby!) and had to scrape the hairspray off the floor.

Now I need to get off my butt and clean the girls bathroom. You know-the one that's been waiting for five days. But before I go, here's some pictures of Ashtyn after her last performance with the flowers she got from Daddy and her great-grandma! We love our little ballerina!

Great Job, Ashtyn!

Ballet on the Brain

2007-12-07T13:50:00.000-08:00

Sorry everyone for such a long break from posting. We are all breathing ballet this week because Ashtyn performs in the Nutcracker tonight (already peformed a matinee today) and tomorrow night. Ashtyn is only 5, but this is her third Nutcracker performance and she has three parts this year. Ballet is truly her passion and God-given talent (believe me-I don't have a dancing bone in my body; just ask my high school friends how horrible I was when they tried to teach me to move my hips!). If she didn't love it so much, I definitely would not go through this week.

She has had ballet every night this week for 4-5 hours. Most of the girls either dance Friday or Saturday night, but Ashtyn dances both. What can I say-she's amazing for her age. I am helping backstage so I've been there every night as well. By tomorrow's end, I will have done Ashtyn's entire hair in ringlets five times and in a bun five times, and also done her makeup 5 times (mascara and eyeliner included, which also means scrubbing her face in the tub every night). Ashtyn has three costume changes and I have to put her hair in a bun after her first part in the party scene. I think we've gone through an entire bottle of hairspray and a few hundred bobby pins. I also have to help 12 other little girls through two costume changes. Moral of the story: don't wear high-heeled boots every night! My feet are killing me!

I will post some pictures soon, but I left my camera at the theatre. Good thing I'll be there again tonight and tomorrow. One of Ashtyn's costumes is the prettiest purple, poofy dress and pantalooms. She looks so dang cute! My husband deserves a big thankyou for watching the younger girls so much this week and eating cereal for dinner on several occasions.

Great message for us all

2007-12-07T13:48:00.000-08:00

I saw this and couldn't believe the wisdom and faith of such a young boy. Definitely a touching moment. Check it out:

http://www.ksbj.org/eblogs/morningShow/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/logan-calf-story.mp3

My beautiful Girl!

2007-11-15T13:23:00.000-08:00

I know, I know... should I send her to Hollywood now? We got our family pictures taken last weekend (nightmare!!!) and this is one of Ashtyn's. Her's all turned out beautiful, which I can't say about the rest of us. I will be posting some in the next few days. I know I'm a little prejudice, but I think Ashtyn is gorgeous.

Until next week...

2007-11-15T13:22:00.000-08:00

Jim and I are working on our disco dance this week. When we master the disco fever, I will post our dance for your viewing pleasure.

We've been busy!

2007-11-15T13:21:00.001-08:00

Star in Your Own JibJab! It's Free!
Sorry I haven't posted for so long. All of my free time has gone to my dance lessons with Jim.