The Forbush Family

SURPRISE....

2010-05-19T16:00:00.001-07:00

Can I just say that I have an amazing husband and friends who somehow was able to throw me a surprise 25th Birthday party without me having a clue! I can honestly say I had no idea but it was such a wonderful surprise and I ended up having a great birthday thanks to all those that I love:) Thank you again to everyone who participated and came to my birthday you are truely amazing and I love you all!!

*Please be aware it wasn't the best day and so I'm not looking that wonderful so be warned!!!

After we had cake and a little girly talk Sam rushed me to get dressed and then took me to a yummy birthday dinner and movie. And he surprised me again when I got in the car with flowers on my seat:) Thanks Babe again I love you so much and am truely blessed to have you for all of eternity!

Some December Randoms

2010-05-19T15:36:00.001-07:00

Here we have Parker and Haley playing in the first snow on December 8, 2009! I don't think we really got to enjoy the snow that much this winter. The kids seemed more content in staying inside than playing in the cold. Sam blamed me whenever Payton would say things like, "I hate the cold I want it to be summer!!". Who knows maybe one day it'll grow on us:)

My little snow bunny!! December 13th, 2009

Grandma (my mom) surprised the kids with a ginger bread house that they could put together. It was quite a task and in the end I think it was really Grandma who had all the fun!

Thanksgiving 2009

2010-05-17T15:11:00.000-07:00

For Thanksgiving my grandmother, Jackie came up from Phoenix to enjoy the holiday with us. So instead of having a large Thanksgiving we decided to keep it small and just have my family and The Duckers over to celebrate. It was so nice to be able to enjoy my families company and to eat yummy food. Thank goodness everything turned out so well:)

Again Already?....Part 2

2010-05-17T14:26:00.000-07:00

Since there is so many of Payton's friends birthdays within weeks of his we all decided to throw the kids a combined birthday party at Blast Off in Idaho Falls! The kids had so much fun playing in the ball pits, dressing up in the make believe section and getting to play arcade games. It was such a blast to watch all them enjoy themselves and then before we left the birthday kids got to go into the balloon box and however many balloons they were able to catch was how many prizes they got!

Birthday Kids: James (4), Isabell (4), Payton (4) and Ian (4)

Parker

Mia

Avery

Quentin

Tessa

Carson and Ellie

Emmett

Lincoln

Are you a Recessionista?

2009-11-20T15:33:00.001-08:00

The Recessionista ladies have to decided to show Thanks to their customers by giving away an authentic Coach purse!!!!!!! There are many ways to win so go over and check it out and put your name in the drawing. And then while your over there you should check out the rest of their products. I am really digging the newsboy hats with bracelets and hoop earrings.

Sweet and stylish giveaway!

2009-11-19T09:10:00.000-08:00

I recently went to a Recessionista party with a good friend and got some really cute boots for a really reasonable price. They offer so many great products that won't break the bank. I definitely recommend checking out their site. Also if you love giveaways then your going to love theirs! Who wouldn't want to win a pair of shoes or a cute handbag? Right now they are giving away a scarf so go check it out.

AGAIN ALREADY?...part 1

2009-11-03T15:25:00.000-08:00

That's right that little thing you see below was once the big thing a little further down. Can it be? Has it really been 4 years? I can still remember waking up at 4 in the morning November 2, 2005 wondering if I was in labor. Soon after my water broke which definitely confirmed that I was indeed in labor and then 9 hours later Payton was here. 8lb 9oz and 21 1/2 inches long, he was beautiful and perfect in every way! Fast forward 4 years and now look at where we are. He is definitely bigger and has changed so much but I still think he is beautiful and perfect in every way even when he is picking on his sister! Happy Birthday bubbas we love you so much:)

*Please keep scrolling down there are quite a few more posts!!

Halloween 2009 edition!

2009-11-03T15:15:00.000-08:00

Here are the kids all decked out in their Halloween costumes ready to go trick or treating in our neighborhood!

Let me just say that Parker was a little trooper. She walked our whole neighborhood and would not let me help her carry her bucket that I have to say was pretty heavy. She is so independent she even had to do all the stairs by herself, and if I tried to help she would yell at me!

Trick-or-Treat at the Snake River Landing

2009-11-03T15:03:00.000-08:00

I may have gone a little overboard this Halloween with all the activities for the kids but there was so much going on and where they are both at a good age I thought why not!! So on Friday, October 30th I took the kids to the Trick-or-Treat at the Snake River Landing where they had all kinds of businesses there with their trailers all decorated handing out candy to the kids. The weather was a lot warmer which was nice and they kids had a lot of fun. There were a few radio stations there playing music so the kids had a lot of fun dancing.

Here's Parker shaking her thing.

Optimus Prime!

This was at the end after they got all their candy. I took the picture right before a lady unplugged it and it fell on the kids. No one was hurt physically but I do think that Paytons feelings were hurt. I think he thought they did it on purpose so I had to calm him down for a bit. After we were done here Sam met up with us and then we took the kids over to the river to get some more candy.

Boo at the zoo 2009

2009-11-03T14:48:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe Halloween has come and past us already this year has gone by so fast!! And once again we tempted to attend the annual Boo at the Zoo at our local and lovely Taughus Park Zoo on Thursday, October 29th!! So we stood in line where I think it was like 30 degrees outside to get our tickets. Payton was being kind of a little grouch because he had fallen asleep in the car and was woken up way too early. We went with our friends Melissa, Carson, James and little Tessa and of course Grandma! Even though it was really cold out the kids seemed to have a lot of fun and candy especially Parker. She would not let go of her bucket it was so cute. All fun aside though I think this will be our last Boo at the Zoo since it is $4 a person and it only takes like 15-20 minutes to walk through!

The ballerina waiting in line.

Optimus Prime!

Payton's first field trip

2009-11-03T14:28:00.000-08:00

As some of you may know Payton is going to pre-school this year and we are both loving it. He goes 3 times a week: Monday, Wednesday and Friday. One of the reasons I'm really enjoying this pre-school is because it is right in our neighborhood so we can just walk there even if the weather isn't that great. Well once a year Mrs. Jaime takes the kids on a field trip so for this year she took them to the pumpkin patch in Idaho Falls where they also had a hay maze and a train that the kids could ride, and then when they were done on the way out they could pick pretty much any pumpkin to take home. Of course of all the pumpkins that Payton could pick he picked the small one lol and then also one for Parker that was even smaller! It was kind of cold but it really didn't seem to matter to the kids, they all had a great time. Thanks Mrs. Jaime for all the fun!!

Here's Payton and his friend and classmate Daison inside the big red barn.

The boys at the beginning of the hay maze.

And now at the end and heading to the train.

Payton and Emmett taking a ride on the train. Emmett is also going to Jellybean Junction but he goes on different days as Payton.

Daison.

The little pumpkins that Payton picked out for himself and his sister.

Payton's 1st trip to the dentist!

2009-11-03T14:16:00.000-08:00

After his field trip Payton got to go to the dentist for the first time. I was a little nervous cause I really didn't know how he was going to respond but he did excellent. We decided to let him watch me first to see that it wasn't anything to be scared of so once I was done we put him in the chair. He listened very well and did everything the hygienist told him to do. He even let her take x-rays or at least try to, she said his mouth was too small so they would try again next time. I sure am glad its over and the good news is he isn't scared and he had no cavities which was another thing I was worried about. Now I can rest for another 6 months before we have to go in again.

Taking another trip to Bear Gulch!

2009-11-03T13:50:00.000-08:00

Well we ended up having a really nice Saturday the end of September so Sam and I decided to take the kids to Bear Gulch one last time this year for a little hike since they enjoyed it last time. We ended up walking a lot further this time and saw so many beautiful sites. Luckily no bears though!! By the time we were done and to the car we all were pooped out.

Yes I did take my Phil & Teds stroller on the hike with me and really it came in handy as you can see from the sleeping baby!!

Another Zoo trip with our friends!

2009-11-03T13:40:00.000-08:00

Since it seemed the good weather was soon going to be getting to an end my friend Becca and I decided to take the kids to the Taughus Park Zoo in Idaho Falls on August 18th! Luckily my mom also came with so we had an extra hand to help with all the boys. I happened to be babysitting that day so we had a few extra kids that weren't ours but they all seemed to have had a good time. I would say that this was probably one of my favorite times taking the kids to the zoo and I think it was because we had the older kids with us.

Here's Lincoln and Payton riding the lion.

Mason and Parker.

Grandma and Parker taking a picture with the lion.

This was a fun picture can't you tell? They really did have fun:)

Our Madera, Ca trip!!

2009-11-03T13:17:00.000-08:00

In the beginning of August the kids and I took a little road trip (well maybe not little it took us about 15 hours one way to get there) to Madera, Ca with my mom and Marvin to take Marvin's grandkids: Teyah and Kyran back to their parents. It was an ok drive and the kids did better than I thought they would. We drove all the way through not stopping at any hotels along the way. *Note to self: next time we decide to drive to Cali make it a two day driving trip!! By the last hour or so Parker was so done with her seat poor baby, but she did really well and the kids were for the most part entertained so that was very good.

The kids and I on our way to Madera!

An old good friend and co-worker from Old Navy hanging out with the kids by the pool.

Parker and I enjoying the heat:)

Payton playing with his rolly polly. I'm pretty sure it didn't survive!

Aunt Heather and Parker taking a dip in the pool.

Courtney and Parker.

Courtney and Payton. I think Payton had such a good time with Courtney. She is going to make a good mother one day!

Aunt Heather and Parker showing Cali what babywearing is all about!!

Payton being silly at Claim Jumpers.

Parker hanging out by the fountain outside of the Cheesecake Factory in Fresno. She loved this fountain, I couldn't keep her away from it. Every time I would turn around she'd be running over by it again!

Payton playing in the bounce house before he decided to disappear on Courtney and Jessica little stinker!

All in all it was a good trip. I really enjoyed seeing all my old friends but I am bummed because I didn't get any pictures with them. I guess we will just have to plan another trip next year! The drive home was a little lonely since we were down two kids. And even though it was a fun trip the kids and I were happy to get home to Sam.

Cute giveaway!!

2009-10-23T16:00:00.000-07:00

Go check out this way cute blog! Giveaway ends tomorrow night so hurry over for a chance to win some cute Halloween decorations!!

Any body interested?

2009-09-03T08:23:00.000-07:00

So I have been feeling really bad because I haven't been working out consistently like I was before. I thought maybe someone or a few people wanted to start doing ChaLean Extreme with me? I think having that little extra motivation to work with someone might help me to get me going and make it a little more interesting and fun. The workout is three month program, five days a week. I thought we could do like every other day together or even two days if that's too difficult. And then the days where we don't work out together it will be our responsibility to do it on our own. Also I think we would have to workout early in the morn so it doesn't get in the way of our families and such, so like 6 or 6:30. If your interested let me know I think I want to start the Monday after we get back from the cabin. This workout is great and if your dedicated you will see results:)

*I forgot to mention that this workout requires either weight or bands. I have both so I have an extra but if more than one person wanted to do this with me you would have to have your own.

Shrimp Boil Louisiana style!!

2009-08-25T16:50:00.000-07:00

I suppose you could say that I have been somewhat of a slacker lately when it comes to blogging. Our summer hasn't been too crazy, but crazy enough to where I have had no time really to get our pictures on the computer and organize them. So finally I was able to sit down and get things done. So keep scrolling down cause there are going to be quite a few posts from our fun summer!!

Since last summer I have wanted to do a shrimp boil. I had it one time when I was younger at a church function and never forgot how yummy and different it was. So for my moms 54th birthday we decided to give it a try. We borrowed a picnic table from my in-laws and covered it with freezer paper. Some of you may be asking what exactly is a shrimp boil? Well first of all it usually consists of crawdads instead of shrimp but because we don't live near where we can get fresh crawdads and also cause they look a little scary we did shrimp instead. So you take all your stuff and cook it in a big pot and when its done you pour it out over your table. It was so good and I can't wait until next summer to do it again!!

Before:

The kiddy table! They were so excited and ate almost everything on their table!!
After:

Happy Birthday Mom!!

Ross Park

2009-08-25T14:27:00.000-07:00

On a Saturday in July some of us from playgroup and a few others went to Ross Park in Pocatello,Id. It was again a little overcast but still pretty warm so it ended up not being too bad of a day. I don't know really what I was expecting from this place but I think I thought it would be a little bit bigger but oh well. It was actually quite an adventure to say the least. Poor Sam stood in line with Payton for the big water slide but then when they got to the top found out that he couldn't go down with Payton and so they stood up there for like 20 minutes trying to get him to go down. At one point the lifeguard asked Sam if he wanted her to push him down? Needless to say they ended up walking down the stairs. The rest of the day was not as crazy and so we were able to enjoy the lazy river and the kiddie play pool.

Look at that face. I don't remember why she was doing this but it sure is funny to look at the picture now!

Silly girl:)

Mom, Marvin and the grand kids minus Payton!

Qwest Family Night at Tautphaus Park and Zoo

2009-08-25T13:15:00.000-07:00

So every year Qwest does an employee family night activity. This year they had it at Tautphaus Park, Zoo and Fun Land where they fed us and gave us tickets to ride rides and see the animals.

Here Parker and I are after eating our hot dogs and chips. Can you figure out what kind of chips she had lol?!

The kids taking a picture in front of the big snake.

Playing in the water. What kid doesn't right?

Payton in with the goats and sheep. This was actually the first time he has ever been able to do this. Every other time we have been to the zoo the goats where already in their little house.

We weren't sure at first how Parker was going to react when we put her in with her brother but she loved it. And actually she almost got knocked over a few times and she didn't cry at all.

I just had to take a picture of this parrot. He was just hanging up side down like it was nothing.

Payton and Sam on th e Ferris Wheel. Payton was actually scaring Sam on this ride. He kept looking over and wouldn't hold on. That kid has no fear!!

Here they are on the spinning ride( I forgot what its called).

After we were done seeing the animals and riding the rides we took the kids over to the park and let them play for a bit. We had so much fun doing all these things and spending time as a family. We may complain about Qwest sometimes but I have to say, it was pretty cool what they did paying for us to do all those things.

4th of July

2009-08-25T11:55:00.001-07:00

Our 4th of July was pretty productive. I was a little worried how the day was going to go because we stayed out so late the night before at Rigby Lake but the kids surprised us and did pretty good.

We started out the day getting up early and going over to grandma and grandpas for early morning breakfast. We had pancakes, sausage, eggs, hashbrown and juice. It was super yummy and a great way to start out a day. Then we headed to Rexburg to watch their parade. I couldn't believe how many people were there. Poor Payton and Avery didn't have a chance when they were throwing the candy to the kids. The streets were crowded with children and some were actually pretty aggressive and was pushing to get candy. I don't think we will be going to that parade again next year. After that we took the kids home for a little nap and then we were off to Idaho Falls downtown to see what they had going on!! We didn't stay for the fireworks show even though we've been told it is the best around. We figured since the kids got to see fireworks the night before they wouldn't know the difference if they had missed this one. So we headed home to do our own fireworks with my family.

Parker at the Parade in Rexburg

The big Broulims cart!

Payton in the bounce house in downtown Idaho Falls.

Sam, Teyah and Kyran

Teyah with her eyes closed little stinker.

Say "CHEESE"!!!

3rd of July Celebration at Rigby Lake!

2009-08-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

So for the 3rd of July we decided to check out the Celebration of Liberty at Rigby Lake! It was a little cloudy out but warm so we packed up all the kids and went to the lake! They had all kinds of fun things to do there and lots of yummy food which I'm pretty sure we tried all of it lol. It did end up raining on us so we just took the kids to the car and waited it out. After it cleared up we went back out and played some more until the fireworks show started. I really think it would have been a nice night if not for the rain. It ended up being pretty cold so we all cuddled under some blankets for the show which was pretty amazing!! Unfortunately I didn't get any pictures of the show but here are some of the stuff we did during the day.

The kids waiting in line for the National Guard thing. Payton looks a little nervous, but I think he was just tired!

Mason going through.

Sam helping Payton get up!

Look at him climb! He did such a great job.

.....And he WON!!! Payton ended up beating the other kid. After this he didn't want to do anything else but. I have to say it did look pretty fun and if I could I would have done it myself:)

Bear Gulch & Mesa Falls!

2009-08-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

Bear Gulch Canyon:

Here the kids and I are in the beginning of our hike! It was a little rainy but that didn't stop us from having a fun family adventure.

This was an old railroad tunned built in I believe 1907. They had to build the tunnel for the trains because of rock falling onto the tracks! Unfortunately they closed it down so you can't go through it anymore as you can see.

Mesa Falls:
It was so pretty here. All the flower smelled yummy, but the mosquitoes were out of control.

Garage Sale!!!

2009-08-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to put it out there that Sam and I are going to be having a garage sale this coming Saturday, August 8th @ 7am 375 N. 4th W. #4 in Rigby! I have been going through the whole house and adding to the pile. Some stuff that you might be interested in:

a baby swing
vacuum
gently played with toys
childrens table with 2 chairs
womens and mens clothing
shoes
electronics(a phone w/ answering machine, radio, lamp,etc.)
scrap booking stuff
pans

If anyone wants to add stuff to it your more than welcome but let me know before tomorrow night!!

Our "CRAZY" month of May!!

2009-06-04T16:10:00.000-07:00

*Here is a long over due blog post! It seems like it has been forever since I posted anything so hopefully everyone will be satisfied with this post. Quite a bit has happened in May so I thought I would just blog it all together, so keep scrolling down.

Vegas!
First off was our trip to Vegas! Let me just say that it was a very much needed trip and I, myself felt so much better after wards. Of course if you asked Sam he might feel a little differently about the trip, but that is only because every where you went people were trying to sell you something and so he got a little irritated at times, but all in all we both had a good time. While we were there we hung out by the pool, slept in, caught a show and ate some really good food:) Even the weather I thought was perfect. It wasn't too hot and at night you could walk the strip and not get all sweaty and yucky! I think out of the whole trip the only complaint that I had was our hotel. We stayed at the Imperial Palace which was right on the strip. We thought we were getting a really good deal and come to find out we were staying in a parking garage! Well not really, but that was what our view was. So we stayed the first night and then we had to change rooms. So for $20 more a night we stayed in the main building with a room that over looked the strip. Bonus feature was that the band downstairs would play until 3 am!! FYI NEVER STAY AT THE IMPERIAL PALACE!!! It was a whole especially after you would go through like Cesars and the Bellagio. On a positive note we heard they will be blowing up the Imperial next year and building a newer nicer hotel!!! So other than the hotel we had a good time and if you are in need to get away I would recommend Vegas, but don't bring your kids (just my opinion).

at Cesars

New York New York

The Botanicle Gardens at the Bellagio

this is what you get when you have a stranger take your picture lol

outside at the Flamingo after a late breakfast

Mommy and Daddy Day!
After we got back from Vegas we thought it would be good to take the kids out for a Saturday and have some fun since we were gone for a whole week so we took them to Taughus Park, the zoo and let Payton ride some rides!

Payton and Parker on the swings

she looks scared right here but she was loving it

Payton on the carousel

and Parker waiting patiently

riding the train

Randomness!

I decided that it was time to change my hair...well at least a little bit. So I had Crystal cut my bangs. What do you think? They have actually been cut for a while now! I am really enjoying the change. My hair still isn't as long as I'd like it but it's getting there.

Here Sam and Payton finished this puzzle together in just a few hours on and off. It was a great activity for the both of them and Payton actually did a lot on his own. I was very proud of him. He sure does love to do puzzles, I just wish they made more for kids his age. They are either really easy and they have them done in like five minutes or they are really hard with like 500 pieces.

He is probably going to one day hate me for this but I just thought it was so cute!! This to me is just such a boy way to fall asleep.

Payton riding his 1st big boy bike!
I don't know why we waited so long to get Payton a bike, but finally after him going over and taking the neighbors bike I decided enough was enough and so my mom and I took the kids to Wal-Mart and got Payton his first bike with training wheels. And now he LOVES his bike. That is all he wants to do now, which I love because for a while I had to threaten his life to get him to go outside and play. And now its even greater because school is out and he has other boys to ride with. We are still learning boundaries and not to go in the road but other than that he rides like it was second nature. I have a feeling that it's not going to be long before we can take the training wheels off.

Parker!
Parker first took her first steps when we went to Phoenix for Easter. It was so big, bigger than when Payton first walked I think. Is that sad? I say that because for Payton it was like he took his first steps and then he was walking every where. He picked it up so fast that there was really no time for excitement plus he wasn't even one yet and Parker didn't take her first steps til she was 13 1/2 months old at least. So needless to say it was pretty exciting. But then she took her sweet time and would only take a step or two every once in a while when ever she felt like it. Before we left for our trip she was doing a lot better but still crawling. But when we came back from Vegas this is what we saw! (FYI this was taken today, she wasn't walking this great at first but it didn't take long. I just wasn't a good mom and record her at first but you get the idea.)

Also Parker is talking a lot more now. One of the things she says that gets me every time is "stop it"!! She'll go around telling her brother to stop it, it is so funny. For such a little person she has quite the big attitude! I wonder who she got that from lol?! Also she says "no, hot, thank you and of course SHOES". I think I may have created a monster.

Easter

2009-04-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

The Grand Finale!!

"The Easter Bunny came"

Payton and Parker's Easter baskets that the Easter bunny left them!!

Dyeing Easter eggs. This is the first time that we have done this. I don't know does that make me a bad mom? Well in my defense this is the first time really that he was old enough to do it and look it was so beautiful out that we did it on the patio:)

left to right: Nana, Uncle Bob, Me and Marian at my Uncle Bills house on Easter Sunday.

Sam and I

Sam and Parker. She had him walking all over the place!

Payton finding eggs.

Second cousins Courtney and Cameron

left to right: (back)Aunt Anke, Chris, Cousin Sam,(front)Nana, Serena, Timo's girfriend and Timo

Family picture

Grandkids:Tracy, Me, Cousin Sam, Chris, Marco, Timo and Nana

My family: Dad, Sam, Nana, Marian, Me, Parker and Payton

Nana, Parker, Me, Sam and Payton!

We had such a wonderful Easter that I wouldn't mind if we made it a yearly thing to go to Phoenix. The weather was just perfect and the kids were actually able to go swimming. I love it:)

Part 2 of our trip to Phoenix

2009-04-24T08:47:00.000-07:00

Finally part 2 is here of our trip! I hope I was able to build the anticipation lol:)

While on our trip we took the kids to my grandmothers preschool for their Easter celebration! The kids have never been here when there were other kids so they had a lot of fun making new friends and trying new things. Payton was even in an Easter parade! After all the fun the kids didn't want to leave so Sam and I were able to leave them and have some us time and go to the Outlet mall. I have to say it was really nice being able to just drop them off and go have fun!

Parker in one of her Easter dresses after we dropped her off in the Lambs room.

Payton getting his Easter hat on for the parade!

Off they go.

So I have to say like every where we go Payton would not let Sam out of his sights. So here is Sam participating in the parade as well.

Payton pouting (wouldn't be him if he didn't do it a little).

Parker and Mommy!

The Easter egg hunt! So this is the first year that Payton was able to do an Easter egg hunt outside lol!! He didn't know what to do so I kept yelling at him to "Get the Eggs"!!! He did good and the teacher helped a little also.

After the egg hunt Payton went into his room and they had treats and did crafts and took a little nap! That's when Sam and I skipped out and had some In-n-out burger, it was sooo good!! And then we went shopping which I have to let everyone know was in fact not My idea but Sams:)

Our trip to Phoenix:Part 1

2009-04-23T20:49:00.001-07:00

Here is the beginning of our trip, the Idaho Falls airport. Our flight left at 6:55 am so we were up very early but I have to say it was really nice not having to drive all the way to Salt Lake. The kids were really excited so you could never really tell that it was that early by looking at them. On the other hand Sam and I showed the signs all over!! As we were waiting to board the plane I decided I would take some pics of the kids and Sam!

Here is Paker with not one but TWO cereal bars!! She didn't care if it was 6:30 in the morning she was hungry and let me tell you she ate almost all of both of them!!

Here is Payton smiling patiently for the camera. He was so excited to go on an airplane and go see GG.

All in all it was a good flight. The kids were very well behaved and we didn't have to waste very much time in the Salt Lake airport which was nice. When we boarded the plane from Salt Lake City to Phoenix they actually had little televisions with satellite so we all got to watch our own stuff.

Some Interesting advice from Jillian Michael(The Biggest Loser)

2009-03-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

As most of you probably know by now I have been on a huge "get into shape and eat healthy kick"! So far so good:)

I have to admit I don't watch The Biggest Loser. Not because I don't think its a good show but just because I don't watch a lot of tv. I do however get these daily emails from Jillian Michaels one of the coaches on The Biggest Loser. She is the one that yells I believe! I saved the ones that I thought were really helpful for those in need and I thought I would share some of it with all of you so enjoy!! (Take the time to read these, trust me its worth it *summers on the way)!!!!!

Find the Middle Ground
What's your favorite treat? Come on now - if you could eat your way out of a room filled with one kind of food, what would it be? Cake? Potato Chips? Chocolate? Cheese? Ice cream? When you know that you can never have just one potato chip, it's tempting to swear off that food forever - especially now that you're focused on improving your health, diet, and physique. But as many of us have found out from experience, labeling something as "forbidden" makes it all the more appealing!

A critical step in renouncing the destructive, all-or-nothing mind-set is knowing how to walk the line between self-denial and self-indulgence. It is the middle ground that offers the best foundation on which to build your new life. Denying yourself little pleasures such as an occasional glass of wine or a chocolate truffle will only make you feel deprived, frustrated, and ultimately hopeless about maintaining your discipline. A temptation is a lot less powerful if it isn't totally forbidden. This is where moderation comes in.

There is room for all foods, no matter how "bad" they are; it's just a matter of being conscious and careful of how often and how much. It's fine to have a piece of cake now and then, just not every day, and not the whole cake.

It's Not Just About Weight Loss
Who doesn't want to look totally hot? If you asked 100 people who were starting to exercise for the first time (or returning to regular workouts after a long time off) what their main motivation was, the majority of them would say something like, "I want to look good," or "I want to fit into a size __ again." And hey, whatever gets you on track initially is good enough for me. But when that scale hasn't budged in a few weeks, it's time to remind yourself that there are lots of other reasons to make exercise a habit.

Research has clearly linked coronary heart disease, diabetes, and cancer to lifestyle. Apart from aiding in weight loss, physical activity offers a positive, healthy way to release anxieties and alleviate tension, which can help reduce your risk of many lifestyle-related diseases. Exercise also supports mental well-being: Physical activity actually changes your brain chemistry, which directly influences your mood and frame of mind for the better. Among other things, physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which act on the brain as natural tranquilizers.

In addition, exercise will boost your confidence. As you start working out and getting stronger, your sense of strength in other aspects of your life will naturally flourish. Bottom line: The more physically fit you are, the longer you'll live and the better your quality of life will be.

Move It to Lose It
Know someone who's getting amazing results from an insanely low calorie diet? It may be tempting to try severely restricting your calories to lose weight fast, but don't even think about it! The reality is that very few of us can stay on those kinds of crazy diets for more than a couple of weeks. And to make things worse, most people on starvation diets gain back all of the weight (and more) just a few months later.

In weight-loss terms, fat is energy and the best way to lose it is to use it. You have to do it with diet and exercise. If you diet without exercise, the majority of your weight loss will be from muscle. The minute you stray from your diet, the weight will come right back.

The only way to lose it for good is to get moving! Exercise not only helps you burn calories, it also helps build, strengthen, and maintain lean muscle. Exercise has another benefit called "afterburn." A great cardio routine keeps burning fat not just during your workout, but for hours afterward. Not bad, eh?

Doing any kind of physical activity is healthier than sitting on the couch downing a bag of chips. Activities like bowling and golf burn calories, but not enough. To see dramatic weight loss, you must do cardio. Cardio is defined as any activity that is rhythmic, continuous and requires large muscles like the legs, back and chest. While bowling and golf get you moving, the action is stop and start. There's no reason to give up those hobbies, just be aware that you must put in time on the treadmill (or some other cardio activity) as well.

*This next one I think is really important because we are all out there looking for the easy way and it can become really dangerous or it may work but you will eventually gain that weight back!! The best and safest way to loose weight and be fit is to work out( and no walking to your mailbox is not consider excercise!) and eat well! It can be hard but if the motivation is there you can do it and if you need a little push I am willing to help:)

Still No Magic Pill for Weight Loss
Who doesn't want to be fit and fabulous with little or no effort? Well, as much as we'd all love to have one, there's no magic pill for weight loss. If all of the pills, shakes, and supplements that claim to work really did, everyone would be thin. And even then, we'd still maintain a steady diet of ice cream, chips, pizza, and candy. Let's not kid ourselves, people.

For now (and let's face it, forever), successful weight loss still comes down to a simple formula. You have to burn more calories than you take in. Calories are a measure of the amount of energy provided by the food you eat - the more calories you eat, the more energy you are giving your body. If you give your body more energy than it can use - well, honey, that's stored as fat.

Let's break it down. A pound of fat is equal to 3,500 calories. If you want to lose one pound in a week, you have to create a calorie deficit of 3,500 calories a week, or 500 calories a day. To lose two pounds in a week, you have to create a calorie deficit of 7,000 calories a week, or 1,000 calories a day, and so on. Get the idea?

There are two ways to create a calorie deficit - eat less and exercise. If you want to meet your weight-loss goals, start by comparing your calorie intake against your exercise expenditure. It's not a magic pill, but it's very simple. Find a way to cut and burn more calories and the weight will come off!

All of these things have become very important to me and I have seen a change!! I will be posting a blog later on to show the new me and also the program that I have been using!! If you can't wait til then then go check out Chalene and get a preview. This definitely isn't your mothers workout video!!

The first day of SPRING!!!

2009-03-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

I think that the first day of spring here in Rigby was perfect. The sun was shining and even though there were a few clouds in the sky the weather was wonderful. I would even go far enough to say that it was shorts weather. Well maybe not for all but for the daring maybe.

So since it was such a beautiful day we decided to pack up the kids, the stroller and the dogs and go to Rigby lake. All of us loved it, especially the dogs. They chased eachother and played while we walked around the lake.

Here is Payton in the beginning caring his big stick. I think this is totally a guy thing:) He carried it for about half way around the lake and then he got tired so he climbed onto the stroller with Parker!!

I can definitely say that we started spring out right. Of course its a few days later and its rainy and it snowed earlier today. Luckily it didn't stick so so far we're in the clear. Hopefully it will be a nice week this week and we can go again. I know we could all use the fresh air and sun shine:)

Shopping with the Kids

2009-03-22T19:13:00.000-07:00

Since this past week was the first of spring I thought what better than to go shopping, especially since I've lost weight!! So my mom and I packed up the kids and headed to the mall on Thursday instead of going to playgroup (sorry girls). We got one of those car carts to push them in and surprisingly they were very well behaved as long as we kept them happy. So I was able to browse the stores with leisure and found a few cute shirts and some sandals! Then of course I had to get Parker some stuff from Old Navy!!

And of course once we walked down to Dillards and Payton saw the toys to play on he asked politely if I had any money, stinker. So I emptied my change and one dollar bills and off him and grandma went to play on the toys. After I was done dreaming of shoes and purses Parker and I joined them at the play area. As you can see Parker had to take a ride with her big brother and I was fortunate enough to have my camera handy!

Aren't they adorable?

She really does love her big brother:)

Sam and I always have a horrible time at the mall when we go, but I'm starting to think that its him and not the kids lol. Of course now that I say that I'm sure it'll come back and bite me:)

Payton's Update

2009-03-08T11:19:00.000-07:00

Well we are going onto the third day and things have been going pretty well. The surgery was a success and really didn't take too long. The doctor told us that he had big tonsils and adenoids so it was good that we got them out.

I was going to take lots of pictures to show everyone but of course the batteries died at the hospital and all I was able to get was one picture and it wasn't very good so you will all have to use your imaginations!!

When we first got to the hospital Payton was a little hesitant on what was going on. The nurse came in to give him the hospital gown and he didn't want anything to do with it. He was ok when they were taking his vitals but didn't want his dad to leave his side. We watched cartoons for a while and then they came in and gave him his medicine. This was when I got really upset that the batteries died on my camera cause this was pretty funny. I don't know what it was that they gave him but he was pretty relaxed afterwards! I guess some might say he was acting a little drunk lol. At one point he was grabbing at air and when we asked him what he was doing he just looked at us and laughed. It was pretty humourus. So after about fifteen minutes they came in and put in his IV. He did really well with that and didn't cry or anything. Then they took him off to surgery and about a half hour later they came to get us and let us know he was done and awake.

It was kind of hard seeing him all incomopacitated and hurting. But it seemed that once I layed with him he was ok and went back to sleep. After that he was in and out of it for a while. Family stopped by and that was nice. Then as the anestesia wore off Payton started to get a little onry! Actually he kicked us out of his room. So Sam and I and Parker hung out in the hall for a little bit until he decided we could come back in.

After a while the nurse felt he had had enough liquids and let us come home. It was a little rough when we came home. But now we are doing good and I think he will be back to his old self in no time!!

My Princess is ONE!!!:Part 3

2009-03-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

Friend Party

Mason and Carson

Payton and Ian

Teya and James

Mia

The Birthday Girl!!

The Family Party

Our little man is having surgery....

2009-03-04T20:01:00.000-08:00

Some of you may already know this but we are taking Payton in tomorrow morning at 7:15 to get his tonsils and adenoids out. It started out with snoring and so we didn't think much of it, but the snoring turned into sleep apnea which is pretty scary. My sister in law had taken her son who is a month younger in to get the same thing done and was happy she did. So we followed suite and had Payton's tonsils looked at. They rate them one to four, four being that they touch. Payton was a three!! So we made the appointment and now the day is here. We (and when I say we I mean me) are a little nervous but we trust the doctor so we're staying positive. We appreciate all the prayers and I will keep you all updated on how everything went and Payton's recovery!!

My Princess is ONE!!!:Part 2

2009-02-27T10:39:00.000-08:00

Here is a view of my babies first year, ENJOY!!

My Princess is ONE!!!

2009-02-26T12:33:00.001-08:00

I can not believe that my baby is one already. This last year just flown by. With so much going on I feel as if we've kind of missed some things. I guess it's true what they say about the second born. They have more patience, a little more tolerance to pain and a lot of love! Ok so maybe people don't say all of that but its true about Parker. I couldn't ask for a better baby. She has been great from day one and always smiling. To tell you the truth I don't know a more happy baby which I thank Heavenly Father for all the time!! Parker is a true blessing to our lives and I don't know what life would be like without her. I just wish that time would go a little slower so we would be able to enjoy all the small steps she has taken in her first year.

Some of Parkers milestones: (not in order)
says momma, dada and sometimes hi!
has eight teeth(four on top and four on the bottom)
crawls
can go up the stairs
pulls herself up onto things
*puts up with her brother and the dog
waves hello and goodbye
claps

I know that every baby does all these things and some before others but I never really posted anything before or put up pictures of these things and for some never let you know she was doing them in the first place so there you go!!

Sam's website!!

2009-02-25T13:41:00.000-08:00

Drum roll please??? DADADADADADADADADA...........
..............................
............
..
IT'S HERE!!!!

WWW.LEAVEAPRAYER.COM

I am proud to announce that Sam's website is up and running and waiting for you all to check it out. We both would really appreciate your support so please please PLEASE go and check it out! And if you really love me you will leave a post on your blog to get even more people to check it out:)

The website is pretty self explanatory, but basically you just go on make an account then you can visit the different forums depending on your situation or the persons your on there for. It is a non-denomination site so no matter your religion you can go on and get the support that you need.

This site is going to be great for people to connect especially in these hard times so what are you doing reading this blog go check it out...........

HERE

*I want to thank everyone who has already shown support we both really appreciate it:)

Simply Lulu Boutique Olive Garden GIVEAWAY!!!

2009-02-22T10:04:00.001-08:00

Alright all you mommas, I know I have been posting a lot of blogs lately about all these different giveaways! All fun but all but lets face it they were all for the kiddos. Finally here is one for US!!! All you do is go HERE follow the simple steps and oh yeah check out what she's got:) Good luck!!!

Too quick to judge?

2009-02-19T15:51:00.000-08:00

As most of you already know I am a "BIG" Britney Spears fan! Have been probably since the beginning of her career. I saw all of it, the breakup with Justin. Then there was her first marriage that lasted I think like less than a day. And then when she really started going down hill and met Kevin and then had her two boys and shaved her head!! It was all crazy and I have to say that I judged her more than once for some of her choices. Like that infamous picture of her driving on the freeway with her little boy on her lap!! I think we all remember that. Of course its gotta get worse before it will get better right?

Well I'm sure by now your wondering where I'm getting at with all of this and I'm probably don't doing a very good job and changing your mind about her but I think that everyone needs a second chance and I think we are sometimes too quick to judge, especially those in the spot light.

So I was bored one day and just checking out what was on mtv.com thinking maybe I would watch a little of The Hills if push came to shove and that's when I came across this documentary that mtv did a while back called "Britney: For the Record". Well of course I was entranced from the beginning and really didn't know what to expect or take from it. Especially after that reality tidbit that her and Kevin did a few years back.

Anyways, I watched it and even from the beginning you really see her for her. You see what she goes through and how she feels about things. And of course some would probably say that they choose that kind of life when they go into that kind of business, but I don't think any one chooses to be confined to their own home because they are scary stalked by poparazzi the whole time!!!

So you make the choice check it out here!!

Take some time out of your day its not very long but I think that you will go away with a different perspective on Britney Spears and little more of an understanding of what her life has been like!! Please?

Cute Giveaway!!!

2009-02-13T14:54:00.000-08:00

A blog that I follow posted about this giveaway!! It's called My Tiny Sweet Cheeks. How cute is that? She has all kinds of fun stuff on there. And actually I guess they do a giveaway every Friday so that's pretty cool. Anyways here's the link so go check it out and sign up!!

Cute stuff Great giveaway!

2009-01-24T09:53:00.000-08:00

I was browsing and found this cute site on blogspot called Baby Blvd. Go check it out here http://www.babyblvd.blogspot.com/

Definitely worth checking out so don't wait go see!!

GAME NIGHT INFO!!

2009-01-13T19:27:00.001-08:00

Ok so here it is, the "official" post.

Game Night is here and we're gonna have some fun!! Too corny? Oh well, well were going to try it out and see how things go. Hopefully we will be able to relax and have some fun without the kiddies for once. Don't get me wrong I love my children but sometimes its nice to have a break. Any who hopefully everyone will be able to make it and we can start making this a monthly thing.

When: Saturday, Jan. 17th @ 6:30
Where: Jen's house, 375 N. 4th W. #4

There's going to be some snacks, pizza and drinks! So hope to see you there.

*it can be couples or singles for all of those husbands who can't be there

I need your opinion!

2009-01-06T11:34:00.000-08:00

So I got some tall black boots for Christmas but they weren't what I wanted so I'm sending them back. I found these others but I can't make up my mind of which ones I like best. I am looking for something that I can wear over my jeans and walk in the snow with but also that I could wear to church maybe! So tell me what you think please?!

1.Ugg 'Cardy' Classic Boot in black
(*note this is not the color I want but you get the picture)

2. Jessica Simpson Yana Tall Boot in black

3. Tsubo 'Messala'

4. Bronx 'Anette' Tall boot in black

Ok so now vote in the side bar and let me know what you think!!!

What do you think about.....

2009-01-05T13:02:00.000-08:00

having a game night?

I have been thinking about this for a while and thought I should put the idea out there and see if any of you would be interested. We could do it once a month, no kids and each time we can do it at a different couples house. I think it would be really fun and am nominating my home for this month if you guys want to try it!! We can take a little vote and if you do want to do it then just leave a comment or call me!!

Hello Mr. Snowman

2009-01-02T16:06:00.000-08:00

This post is for my Aunt Anke who I have been telling now for like two weeks about all the snow that we have gotten! While you enjoy the Arizona sun this is what we are enjoying....

Grandma building "Payton's" snowman

our snowman has blue eyes!

Christmas day:Santa came!!

2009-01-02T15:55:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve Part 3

2008-12-29T09:57:00.000-08:00

After all the excitement at Grandmas and Grandpas we headed home to get ready for Santa.

Payton opening his gift...

awesome, Cars pjs and robe

gotta make cookies to leave out for Santa!

Payton putting the cookies on the cookie sheet

Mommy reading, "Twas a night before Christmas"

leaving the cookies by the fireplace for Santa

the kids in their new pjs on Christmas Eve!!

This Christmas Eve was so much fun for all of us, but especially for Payton. He was so excited he wanted to sleep down stairs to wait for Santa. Of course Sam and I told him that if he was down stairs that Santa wouldn't come so we ushered him into his room and put him to bed. Once the kids were asleep Sam and I started putting toys together and put all of Santa's things down under the tree!

Christmas Eve with The Forbush's Part 2

2008-12-29T09:31:00.000-08:00

After all the ugly sweater excitement it was on to presents. With Sam's family being so big we do secret santa with the families and then they do it with the cousins.

It seems that everyone was very happy with what they got from their secret santas, especially the kids.

Chrismas Eve with The Forbushs Part 1

2008-12-29T09:12:00.000-08:00

So the day before Christmas Eve Sam has this great idea to challenge all the Forbush men to an ugly sweater contest! I was a little hesitant because it was so last minute but then was reminded that all the Forbush's are very competitive! Soon after Sam sent out the text message they all responded with a "heck yes!" Ok maybe not exactly like that but you get my drift. Needless to say Christmas Eve will never be the same. Here are some photos from this exciting event.

AND THE WINNER WAS.....

Russel with his awsome 80's sweater!!!
And the prize was....

a jock strap, size small!!!

My 25th Birthday!!

2008-12-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

(This is a little late, but I wanted to post about it.)
I can not believe I am 25!! I know it isn't old but I remember being little and thinking it was!

Unfortunately my day didn't start out too well because my grandmother had to go into surgery and then also I had to babysit. So I was kind of a wreck until Sam came home and made me dinner and then I got word that my grandmother was ok so I was finally able to sit back and relax and enjoy what was left of my birthday. I didn't get many pictures but I was able to get a picture of Sam's surprise for me.

I didn't get a picture of the meal he made for me but it was crab legs, tilapia, baked potato and veggies with rolls!! It was really yummy.

I am so blessed to have the husband that I do. He always goes above and beyond for his family and we are so grateful for everything he does!! Thanks babe for my birthday!

"Where's your reindeer?"...

2008-12-14T15:50:00.000-08:00

...That's what Payton asked Santa when he went to sit on his lap!! You know this time of year can be trying on all of us but things like this is what makes it all worth it. Before, Payton use to be scared of Santa. So I am really happy that he is old enough to understand and get excited over it finally. Parker on the other hand wasn't quite sure at first when we sat her down as you can see from the pictures. Then in the end all Santa had to do is offer a candy cane and then it was good enough for her!

Oh Christmas Tree...

2008-12-11T15:52:00.001-08:00

First off we would like to thank my brother and sister in law for going out and cutting down our Charlie Brown Christmas Tree! This year instead of going to the tree lot like we've done in the past we opted for the less expensive route and got our tree from the wild!!! Isn't it great? It's definitely different. I tried to get both kids in the picture but Payton wouldn't stay put and since Parker isn't walking yet she had no choice but to be in the picture. We were going to decorate it as a family for family night but that ended up not working out and so I did it alone, which is ok cause when it comes to stuff like this I have a little ocd and want it done my way. All in all it was fun and I can't wait to celebrate this Christmas with my family!!

Lets all read the Book of Mormon!

2008-12-04T16:12:00.000-08:00

As you all may already know our economy is not what it was and with our city bills going up and Christmas around the corner, maybe it would be a good idea to put a little faith into this mix of debt and stress. I don't know about any of you but I find it very difficult to sit down and read The Book of Mormon as I should be doing. I know I should and sometimes when I'm reading something else I'll even think I should read my scriptures but then I go back to my book and get pulled into the characters lives and forget of anything else.

Therefore I wanted to start some kind of Book Of Mormon club or competition even. Whatever helps us to to get it done. And if you don't fall into the catagory of haveing a hard time reading The Book Of Mormon then you could either just do it with us for fun or not, there's absolutely no pressure. Melissa and I were talking about it earlier that we should do something cause if other people are involved then maybe we'll do it. It's like trying to loose weight. You do it in a group cause then you're held accountable!

We were thinking of starting out small. So starting Sunday you can start with either reading a verse to a page a day, seven days a week. Of course if you want to do more you can. We're starting small cause if we do too much we'll get discouraged and not finish. Also it gives you time to take in and pray about what you've read.

I hope that at least some of you will do this with us. There is no pressure and if you did want to make it a compition let me know and maybe we can come up with some kind of prize or something!!

Leave me a comment if you want to do this with us.

My little angels

2008-12-02T11:14:00.001-08:00

So my little angels got into a bag of cookies and here's what happened.....

One in each hand!! I guess they were just that good.

A Day To Be Thankful For!

2008-12-02T10:46:00.001-08:00

Well here I am finally blogging about my Thanksgiving. All in all it was a wonderful day that ran pretty smoothly! I tried to get as much done as I could the day before because as you all knew I was feeding 20 mouths (yikes)!!! I was a little nervous about the turkey because I had never cooked one before but it turned out so yummy and it was so simple I couldn't believe it. Everything else after that pretty much flowed. We didn't end up eating on time but who does really? Other than that everyone I hope had a good time and was satisfied with the meal. I was asked a few times if I would do something like that again, but just calmly replied to ask me after it was all done and now as it is four days later I can surely say that I would definitely do something like that again. I love cooking and trying new things and decorating any kind of space although that to me is the most stressful. But I really liked having the chance to have Thanksgiving at our house and if given the chance again I wouldn't hesitate!!

Now as far as pictures are concerned I was so busy and Sam was in charge of the camera and he didn't really get any goods ones so I'm not even going to bother to post what we have, sorry! So you'll just have to use your imaginations how great it all looked!! Hope everyone had a great holiday and was able to think of things that you were thankful for!!

AMAAAZING!!

2008-11-13T17:00:00.000-08:00

I decided to listen to a little Christmas music tonight and as I'm sitting here blog stalking and waiting for Sam to come home I was almost brought to tears by one of the most amazing voices ever, JOSH GROBAN!!! Acompanied by The Mormon Tabernacle Choir. If you have ITunes or you want to burn the cd from me let me know but his Christmas cd is the best. The song with him and the MTC is O Come All Ye Faithful.

O come let us adore him

Christ the Lord

Come and behold him

Born the King of angels

O come let us adore him

Christ the Lord

Sing choirs of angels

Sing in exaltation

O sing all ye citizensof heaven above

Glory to God

Glory in the highest

O come let us adore him

Christ the Lord

Yes Lord we greet Thee

Born this happy morning

Jesus to Thee be the glory given

Word of the Father

Now in flesh appearing

O come let us adore him

Christ the Lord

This is just one of the most beautiful songs ever written and I just wanted to share it!! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

Payton turned 3!!!

2008-11-13T12:48:00.000-08:00

On November 2, 2005 at 1:11pm, Sam and I welcomed our little baby boy into this world! He was 8 lbs. 9 oz and 21 1/2 inches long and perfect!! Now three years later (which has just flown by) he is our little man and big brother. Sam and I are so grateful to have Payton in our lives. He is a true blessing and has taught us a lot.

I can't believe how much he has changed, how much we've changed in these three years. I remember how shy and dependent he was on us just a few months ago. Never letting go of our legs when strangers would stop by or when we were in the store. Then just a few weeks before he turned 3 we went and got a hair cut and he just sat in the ladies chair like a little man(which he has never done before mind you) and let her cut his hair without any whining or crying or needing me or Sam! It was like a total 360!!

The BIRTHDAY DAY!
So instead of the regular birthday parties that I usually do Sam and I decided to just do a family day and take Payton and Parker out. We took him to Leos Place where he had a blast. He was so excited that he couldn't even sit down long enough to eat!

Opening his awesom Crayola Camera for big boys!!

Payton got his Crayola camera from us! I thought it would be a great gift for a big boy since he always wants to play with ours or see the picture evertime we take one! So now he has his own and its great cause he can drop it and it won't break.

Here are some picture that he has taken with it so far!

(He's an artist!!)

Cake!!

Halloween!!

2008-11-13T12:40:00.001-08:00

I know that its been a few weeks since Halloween but I wanted to post these pics of the kids in their costumes!! Payton had a total blast the whole week of Halloween. I can't believe all the activities that we went to it was great. He got a ton of candy which Sam and I have been enjoying.

I was a little unsure if Payton was ready for trick or treating but he did awesome!!! He was such a little man. He used his manners and kept on going. We dragged him and his friends all over and when they were through they all had their buckets full of yummy treats!

Batman!

Batgirl!

Lots to come!

2008-11-10T15:40:00.000-08:00

I know it seems like forever that I have posted anything. Its not that I don't have anything to post I just have been very busy! So I just wanted to let those who cared that I will be posting new blogs and to be patient!!

Pumpkins

2008-10-31T12:53:00.001-07:00

Just some random pictures of the kids cleaning and carving pumpkins!

Daisy

Drew

Payton

Grandma and Parker

All of them(look at Daisy waiting patiently)

And Mason

Rigby 14th Ward Chili Cookoff

2008-10-31T12:45:00.000-07:00

BEST OVERALL CHILI WENT TO.......

ME!!!

We had a good time at the Halloween activity our ward put together and my chili actually won! I could'nt believe it, although it was pretty good!

Who are you?

2008-10-23T16:01:00.000-07:00

So this is my results from the quiz!

http://twilightersanonymous.com/Quizzes/Find-out-which-female-character-you-are.html

GEEZ

2008-10-15T20:14:00.000-07:00

The other morning again I realized that Haley had gotten out of the backyard for like the trillionth time. Therefore I went to the front to find her. Well....as she runs up to the front I see that her nose and front paws are bright red! So at first I thought that maybe she had hurt herself as she was going under the fence, but then I thought that she may have gotten to something also like another animal or something. Don't get me wrong she is a really nice dog and she wouldn't hurt a fly but I had no idea at the time what had happened. so I put her in the garage and went out to make sure there wasn't a dead animal or anything like that. Well I didn't find a dead animal thats for sure. What I did find was a torn bread bag that had wet red spray paint all over it, and of course my bright dog was chewing at the bag and probably getting high off the fumes.

And oh yeah, her nose is still pink!!!

My Men

2008-10-15T20:05:00.001-07:00

The other night my two men finally got to work on filling the wonderful holes that our dog Haley had dug up under our fence to get out! Since we have had her the poor thing had to be left in the garage of fear she would escape and never be seen again or worse get run over! So finally Sam and Payton of course took their shovels and filled the wholes with dirt. I love these pictures, Sam showed Payton how to put the dirt down and then how to pat it down with his foot and shovel. I don't know really how much help he was but it was great to watch. He just loves to be right beside his father in whatever he is doing!

*You should also know that these two can be labored out if your willing to meet my pricing!!!!

Craft time!!

2008-10-13T15:55:00.000-07:00

Since October is here I thought it would be great to do a little craft with Payton! I found a cute idea in a book of mine to make a pumpkin out of a lunch sack! It turned out really cute. Payton had a lot of fun painting and putting the face on the pumpkin.

...if you want to try this all you do is stuff a lunch sac of your choice with papers, tape the top for the stem and have the kids paint it orange. Then you cut out the mouth nose and eyes and put it on while the paint is still wet. It is a fun project to do and then you can use them as decorations and your kids will be happy to see their work on display!

Qwest Bravo Night, "The Monster Ball"

2008-10-13T15:25:00.000-07:00

So if you know me then you know that my husband works for Qwest, it pays the bills so it'll do for now although lately he has been coming home really hating it and I just keep reminding him that its just for now and that he won't be doing it for forever!! But anyways so every six months they recongize the top sellers in IF and he was one of them. They threw this monster ball and told everyone to come dressed like the old horror movies. It was fun and surprisingly enough I was able to find something that worked!! I kept telling Sam that he should rent a tux but he kept telling me NO cause there won't be anyone dressed formal! Of course a few days before the event he tells me that he regreted his decision not to get a tux because when is he going to get a chance to dress up again!! Silly boys. All in all it was a fun evening. They had an open bar so we had a lot of entertainment! It was really good Sam got recognized so it was neat to hear his name called and see him go to the stage. We had fun and can't wait to see what they do next year!!

Don't you just love it

2008-09-28T21:00:00.001-07:00

....when your trying to have dinner and your kids are running a muck? So here we have Parker playing with the hamburger buns which she tore into tiny bits. Look at here concentrating, I think she's trying to figure it out lol.

But wait here is another bun that is still entact! I guess she felt she needed to feel a part of dinner?

And then there's Payton! My sweet loving son. Sam didn't think I should post this but if you have kids then you'll understand. Payton got mad because after I took the plate away from Parker he thought it would be funny to do the same thing, but I did not and so I got mad took it away and this is what happened!...

and then this cause he got mad cause I was taking his pic! I just couldn't resist though. After I think about the situation and even though I was mad at the time, it is kind of funny now, or maybe not funny but a bit amusing!

So all in all it was a wonderful family dinner. Oh yeah and did I mention that after we did finally sit down to eat my drink got tipped over by my over curious daughter. I'm just glad we weren't in public!

Goin to West Yellowstone!

2008-09-28T20:41:00.000-07:00

On the last day of my grandmother and aunts trip we took a road trip to West Yellowstone and then to Jackson Hole! Of course by the time we got to Jackson it was getting late and it was raining so we really didn't get to do much there but eat dinner and buy Payton a new pair of pants because his diaper soaked through his pants he had been wearing. So needless to say we have no pictures from Jackson! But here are the pics from W. Yellowstone. We had a good time, we got to see buffalo roaming down the road and then in a feild.

Above is some pictures from hot springs I guess. I can't remember what they were called but it was pretty neat. If you look at the pool of water in the background you can see how blue the water was. I've never seen anything like it! Then to the left is "Old Faithful"! While we were waiting for the old man to blow we experience quite a storm with lightning and thunder and rain! My grandmother and Aunt loved it and they can't wait to come again next year!!

Bear World

2008-09-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

While my grandmother and Aunt were here visiting from Arizona we went to Yellowstone's Bear World! We had so much fun I was shocked. I've lived here now for three years and we always pass it on the freeway and I never thought it looked that fun especially for what they charge to get in. But as we entered I realized how wrong I was about this local animal park. As we entered they told us to keep to keep our windows rolled up at all times which was interesting I guess. Of course we did not follow the rules for the first part of the park....

here is the mountain goats. It is a mother and her two babies,one from this year and one from last!
This is the Albino Elk. The mother had something like one in ten million or one million (I forget) chance of having an albino baby!
Here's where we realized we better keep our windows up for sure!! When we entered into the bear part of the park the lady told us not to stop or we would have some hitch hikers for sure so we kept yelling at my grandmother to keep going when she would slow down cause these guys get close! They had 32 bears in there just wandering around. Two grizzlies and 30 black bears!
Payton really wanted this guy! But opted for something smaller.
The baby bears. If you wanted to you could actually feed them but it was expensive so we just watched. They were so cute and really playful! I guess I can kind of understand why people would go up to them lol!!

Payton was being a little stinker and wouldn't take the pic with me so I'm all alone:(
Payton feeding the ducks and fish!

In the petting zoo. They had a pot billy pig and deer and goats. It was pretty neat. Never thought we would ever get to pet deer.

Riding the rides. We were lucky there were no other kids there that day so Payton got to ride the rides all by himself and didn't have to wait in line. The girls were really nice there and just followed him to any ride he wanted to go on at that time.

The Curator Tour!

This was really fun. We all loaded up on the white truck and we each got a tray of food to feed to the animals. This here is the buffalo that they just got a week ago!

These guys were so stinkin cute! The guide lady told us that over the years that these guys figured out that the better the tricks they did the better treats they got so this guy was clapping at us and sitting on his bum!
This was our last stop on the tour and so by this time all the bears were following us.
And lastly the moose. The guide told us that fish and game found him tangled in a fence and so they brought him to Bear World and put him in the petting zoo but then he got bigger than the kids so they put him out near it. She said its funny cause he doesn't realize he's a moose so he likes being near the kids and thats why they put him there!
We had a lot of fun and I think I would recommend for those with families or not to go check it out and you could really make a full day of it!

Our new addition!

2008-09-18T07:51:00.001-07:00

Well I guess we are following suit with the Hodge family and just adopted this pretty girl from the Idaho Falls Animal Shelter. We have had her now for three days and she is the cutest thing! Her name is Haley and actually that was the name they gave her and so we just kept it. Haley is three months old and so sweet. I still can't believe someone would take her to the pound. She is a Border Collie Mix and very smart. Payton loves her and Parker has her moments. I think that when Haley learns not to jump Parker will really love her but right now Haley just gets so excited to see her that she jumps all over her and so Parker gets upset. Overall though we are so excited over our new addition to our family and I would recommend to anyone looking for an animal to first go to your local Animal Shelter first because there are a lot of sweet dogs and cats there that need homes that are just as good and any pure bred dog or cat!!

Parkers eating cereal!

2008-09-18T07:51:00.000-07:00

I was very nervous about this invevitable step in my daughters life because when it was time for Payton to start eating rice cereal he did not like it! So needless to say as the time got closer for me to have to start giving the rice cereal to Parker I was a little hesitant because I didn't know how she was going to react, but......

she loved it!!! So now every night before bed she has a bowl of cereal and some of mommies milk and goes to bed! She is such a good baby and we are so blessed to have her in our family.

You've got to spend money to save money,

2008-09-10T16:56:00.000-07:00

...so this morning Natalie was great and invited me to go with this group of people (one of them being Kimber) to go super early-super saving grocery shopping at Albertsons!! I got up at like 4:45 am and we got to the store about 5:30ish. I couldn't believe it, first of all there was quite a group of people there already and they were like sprinting down the aisles, it was kind of crazy!! I am not a morning person at all but after somewhat figuring out how the whole coupon process works I actually did really good, at least for my first time. Everyone was really helpful and patient which made things a little easier also. I would like to continue going and hopefully I will be able to get the hang of things to where I can just fly threw the store and get what I need. We didn't get done until like 7:30 and I barely made it home in time for Sam to go to work (SORRY BABE). Although I don't think he was upset after I told him how much I saved going this morning. I probably could have a done a little better but everyone said it was pretty good for my first time so that was good for the ego! So do you want to know how much I saved????

I spent $50 and SAVED $170!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Crazy huh? Thanks Kimber and Natalie! I actually had a lot of fun even though it was super early in the morning but it was totally worth it. And you know what some of the girls that kind of started this I guess is doing a class and teaching newbees like me how to do it and be good at it so I might do it! If anyones interested and don't know Kimber and Natalie I can give you their number although I warn you it sounds as if their class is filling up so you might be put on a waiting list.

All in all it was a great experience and I kind of can't wait to do it again next week and see what kind of great deals there will be!

Russ' New toy!

2008-09-05T09:18:00.001-07:00

So my brother in law got a new toy and so of course we all had to go out and try it out! Of course when I say we I'm not really talking about me cause there's no way I'd get on that thing I know I would probably kill myself so for my childrens sake I declined the ride. We ended up taking it a ways from my in-laws over by the river and my two brothers in-law, father in-law and Sam all took turns taking it for a spin, while my mother in-law Kitty and the kids and I watched. Of course Payton found something boyish to do and threw rocks into the river! Over all it was pretty fun and no one got hurt so that was a plus!! Of course none of them wore the helmet they brought,even Sam. I was getting on his case about it and everything but it didn't work. I guess I didn't do that good of a job.

My father in-law Brian!

Payton throwing the rocks into the river. It must have been fun cause he did it the whole time we were there!

20% Discount for Childrens Place!!

2008-08-28T12:40:00.000-07:00

Hey all you moms! Well if you hadn't noticed the weather is changing!!!! I guess it was inevitable that summer was going to be over eventually. So here's the thing if your like me and I'm sure you are, you've probably been freaking out a little cause you weren't ready for this wonderous weather therefore you have no fall clothes to put the kiddos in. Well, do I have a deal for you! I have a webcode for 20% off your entire purchase at Childrensplace.com. They have a lot of cute fall stuff and some good deals too. The webcode is good til September 2 so hurry up. The code is N28LKG6IBQ88!

All done!!...

2008-08-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

Well that's it I have completed the Twilight Series!! I finally finished the last book this morning at about 12:30am! It was great I had no idea what was going to happen and therefore I hated having to keep puting it down. It took me a little longer just because of that reason. I just wanted to sit and read all day but I got it done and now on to Harry Potter since all of my reading buddies say that's what I should also read I am going to take their advice.

Parker

2008-08-17T21:14:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it! Time has just flown by and now my baby girl is sitting up!!! Only two weeks shy of being six months Parker is now sitting up on her own and on top of that she has two of her bottom teeth. If I didn't know any better I would think that she was in a hurry to grow up (sigh). Even so Sam and I are very excited with this new development. We just hope that it takes her a while to crawl!

On to Eclipse

2008-08-13T14:23:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm all done with the first two books to the Twilight series. I know I'm behind and totally jumped on the bandwagon late but I'm gettin it done and let me tell you everyone was right about those books(Melissa and Natalie)!! I love it so far and I had to have Sam pick up the third today on his lunch cause I didn't want have to wait too long to start on the third. These books are very good and I showed Sam the trailer to the movie and he actually said he might be interested in seeing the movie when it comes out which I was so surprised by lol. Also I have to say that she was smart or maybe its the publishing company but putting the first chapter to the next book in the back was brillant cause it drives you crazy if you don't have that next book to keep going! Well I'll be starting the third here real soon when Sam gets home so I'll update you all when I'm all done which by the way I've been going will probably be next week sometime!

Giving in to peer pressure

2008-08-01T20:56:00.000-07:00

Alright so today I gave in and bought the first book of the Twilight series. I haven't started it yet, so as soon as I get some quiet time I will sit down and start it!

Co-homeowner!!!

2008-08-01T13:40:00.001-07:00

Well it's official Sam and I got the last of our stuff out of the apartment last night so we are in our new home!! I'll have to post some pictures up later but it's great. The kids have their own rooms and their own bathroom its wonderful. Now I'm just trying to put it together getting things out of boxes and putting them in their new homes. Of course eventually I would like to paint to give it some character but it's good for right now although I did tell Sam that I at least need to paint one room to get it out of my system lol. As soon as we get settled we will be having a little barbeque so everyone can come see our little investment as Sam would like to see it!

These are some of my most favorite things

2008-07-21T08:51:00.000-07:00

My Fave Baby Finds!

So as you may know if you know me well that I love to shop! In the beginning it was just for myself, then I had Payton but even so boys are very easy to shop for unfortunately. You’re in and out with boys no matter the age. But then I had my princess, Parker! So my love of malls has become a love of baby boutiques. So I thought it would be fun to share my awesome finds, so I hope you will check them out and enjoy as we do!!!

Phil & Teds Sport Double Buggy!

You could say it was love at first sight with this bad boy!! I never had thought about a double stroller until we had our second and then as you look around it all looks the same. It's either side by sides or the doubles that are in front which make them super long and hard to turn. This thing is incredible. This picture really doesn't even do it justice. You can also lay the front seat down if your baby is sleeping and put the back seat in front so your other child can sit up front and see whats going on. I'm sure your thinking yeah but can you really run with it? YES! Isn't that great? Granted this stroller is a little pricy also it is also very worth it!! And when we were in California on vacation we turned so many heads and had so many people come up to us and ask about it it was great. This trulely is the next big thing!

http://www.philandteds.com/

Noodle and Boo

This stuff is amazing. I know I keep saying that about all of it but this really really really is. The sunscreen especially. I put that on Payton and Parker and nothing, especially with Payton cause he's in the sun all the time. He comes in the same as he went out and the best thing about it is it’s hypoallergenic for those with sensitive skin.

“Celebs from Gwyneth Paltrow to Denise Richards are slathering their little ones with Noodle & Boo’s hypoallergenic baby toiletries.” People Magazine

http://www.noodleandboo.com/

Baby Hawk The Cure for the Common Baby Carrier!

My first baby carrier was so uncomfortable. It was one of those slings made by one of those big companies. My baby hawk is so awesome I love it. Its really comfortable and way cute. You can choose from all kinds of fabrics and colors. You can get toy rings and pockets! And not only is it a great product for you but also a great gift. OH YEAH and they even make then sturdy enough to hold a toddler!!

http://www.babyhawk.com/

Dryer Balls

These things are revolutionary. If your wanting to go green then here's your chance....

"The unique design of the Dryerballs lift and separate fabrics while relaxing fibers. The result is less lint and wrinkles, softer clothes, more absorbent towels and a reduced drying time of up to 25% - saving you moolah! Best of all, it's toxic-free, environmentally friendly, and guaranteed to last up to 2 years. That's equivalent to a whole lotta dryer sheets."

http://www.dryerballs.com/

Bebe au Lait

I am so grateful to the ladies who created this product! I know I'm not the only one to hear about this plroduct but I just had to let everyone know that it's greatness!! No more hiding under a sweaty blanket trying to maneuver without shower the room your goodies. It is a little pricy but so worth it! http://www.bebeaulait.com/

BABY LEGS

I wasn't sure about this product cause I just thought well if it's cold out then just put some pants on them but as I was planning for our trip to california I gave in and bout a pair because we were going to be going to a few amusement parks and instead of having to bring extra clothes I thought that these might be good for at night when it starts to cool off. They worked so good and they are super cute and if you check out their website they have all types of fabrics!! http://www.babylegs.com/

Bink Link

The Bink Link is really neat. We kept loosing Parkers binky and so I picked one of these up and I love it. Its made out of wood and she even likes to play with it. Before we had this one we had the soothie brand but its so big and awkward! This product definitely gets my vote!!

http://www.binklink.com/

Our trip to California!

2008-07-11T10:22:00.000-07:00

We went to the beach....

Shamu never went in the water,
Busters under the towel after getting soaked by waves,
These two had so much fun playing in the water and chasing the waves!

We went to Seaworld...

these guys were so funny, we got to feed them. Everytime you would feed one there would be another close by yelling at you to remind you he was there also, it was great!

We got to Dine With Shamu...

these whales were literally this close to us while we were eating,

waving goodbye before their next show,
Shamu Rocks,

We went to DisneyLand....

rinding the monorail into the park....

Dad and Payton on the rocket ride...
meeting Mickey...
and of course Goofy. Payton was so cute. We had to stand in line to meet Goofy and the whole time he waited very patiently but with his hands on his hips it was so cute. Then when it was finally his turn he took his autograph book up to him and got his autograph and then his pic!