Mason Family

Last Call for Fall

2011-12-06T18:27:00.000-08:00

Before the first big snow storm hit this season, we took one last trip up the canyon. I love that we only live 10 minutes away from this! We love going to this area to roast hot dogs and have s'mores. Fall went by way too fast this year. It is my favorite time of the year and never seems to last long enough. Goodbye until next year!

Daddy Daughter Date

2011-11-10T20:09:00.000-08:00

McKenna had a Hawaiian Daddy/Daughter Date a few weeks back and the two of them had a blast. I wish that I could have sneaked in and taken some pictures of them in action. McKenna was so excited to go and have her dad all to herself. I love that her and Lloyd love each other so much and that they had a great time!

What's a Mom to do?

2011-10-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

Tate is almost 19 months old and couldn't be more independent! I tell Lloyd everyday that it is a good thing that he is so cute and that he has the funniest personality. He is such a jokester already. I didn't think that I could get another stubborn child, but he proved me wrong. But man do I love this kid!

He won't let me feed him at all now and refuses to wear bibs. Needless to say that this kid gets like 3 baths a day :)

Tate could not adore his dad anymore! They are quite the little buddies.

I always know when Tate is doing something naughty because he gets super quiet. The other day I had been in the back of the house folding laundry when I realized I hadn't heard from him for a few minutes. I walked out to find him in his walker and he was unloading the crayons as fast as possible from my cabinet that he had somehow undone the lock on. I can't even catch him now when he runs away from me!

It's a . . .

2011-10-06T19:00:00.000-07:00

GIRL!!!!!!!!!!! I am so excited I can barely stand it. We went in for my ultra sound today and everything went just as we had hoped. The doctor checked all the vitals and said that everything looked perfect. 10 fingers, 10 toes, and much to my relief, no cleft lip and/or pallet. Then at the very end, he confirmed that, yes, this sweet new little thing was in fact a girl. He checked every nook and cranny that he could see to make sure that nothing was hiding :) I knew there was another girl that needed to come to our wonderful family. Lloyd informed me that this was my last shot at getting her before I had to find myself another donor :)

It's Fall Y'All

2011-09-23T16:48:00.000-07:00

So, I won't even talk about how much I need to catch up on. I've decided I won't even try. I am starting fresh from today and moving forward. Today is the first official day of Fall and I couldn't be more excited! This is by far my most favorite time of year and I am in Heaven. I decided that I would kill two birds with one stone today by making the kids a yummy after school treat and satisfying my never ending pregnancy sweet tooth. Carmel apple were the obvious choice! And by golly, it did the trick. The kids were ecstatic and my belly was too.

Recipe:

10-12 Tart apples of your choice

2 Cups brown sugar

2 Cubes butter

1 Cup Karo Syrup

1 Can Sweetened Condensed Milk

1 TBSP Molasses (optional and only if you have on hand, don't run out and but it)

1/4 tsp salt

2 tsp vanilla

Directions:

Add all ingredients besides vanilla to a medium size sauce pan on medium high. Stir occasionally until temp reads 245 degrees on a candy thermometer. Pull off of heat and add in vanilla. Let caramel cool to 200 degrees before dipping. If you are using apples that have a wax on them, boil 6 cups of water with 1/4 tsp of vinegar and dip them in for 5 seconds then dry thoroughly. I use craft sticks for my apples and then dip away! Place on wax paper or buttered tin foil. If you want to add fun topping, dip your apple in right after you do the caramel. I prefer my caramel apples naked. So, I don't usually use the toppings. But whatever tickles your fancy!

HAPPY FALL EVERYONE! HOPE YOU ENJOY IT AS MUCH AS I AM GOING TO!

Getting so BIG!

2011-04-05T20:15:00.000-07:00

I am a little late with this entry, but I couldn't miss Matt's Birthday Blog. 7 years old and he already knows more than me :) Matt is such a funny kid and makes me laugh all the time. I am so glad for him in my life.

The day started with our traditional birthday breakfast: doughnuts and chocolate milk

Matt chose instead of a friend party that he wanted to go to Pirate Island.

The kids giving their best Pirate faces.

Then that weekend we celebrated with family for a Super Bowl/Birthday party.

Mason was so excited that I was taking her picture!

Tate loving his first taste of cake!

Papa Thompson always the life of the party

We had such a great time celebrating and being with family. I can't believe that my little guy isn't so little anymore! I was looking at baby pictures of him and I cried. The time really does seem to slip through your fingers. I just hope that I never forget to make the most of it!

So much FUN!

2011-03-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

That about sums up Tate. He is in to everything and is keeping me on my toes. We all think he is the best and can't get enough of him.

absolutely obsessed with balls

such a big helper

Clean Enough

2011-02-08T14:15:00.000-08:00

So I have been feeling a little down; having a hard time feeling "Joy in the Journey" but more "Monotony in Motherhood". Not the motherhood part per say, but the constant house cleaning and laundry. It just is never all done. But does it have to be? I recognize that I am putting too much stress on the less important things. My sister calls it Christmas Postpartum. I can see that. It happens to me every February. Anyways, as I was eating my healthy lunch of Doritos and apple juice, I came upon this inspiration. Thank you for breaking it down and letting me off of my own hook a little. I can do this! Check it out :) I don't know how to do those cute little link tabs, so this will have to do.

theinspiredroom.net/2009/08/08/four-daily-routines-how-i-keep-my-house-clean-enough/

Moments

2011-02-03T14:10:00.001-08:00

I had one today. The kind that you know will stick in your mind with you forever. I was dropping Tytan off at preschool, nothing special about that task. I watched him as he ran to the front door, backpack bouncing and his BYU hat on backwards. He turned with the biggest grin and then blew me a kiss before he closed the door behind him. It was then that I felt my breath catch and asked time to freeze. Let my babies stay this way forever. Sometimes, in the mundane acts of motherhood, I find myself wishing time would somehow move faster. But not today. Today I will hold them closer and a little tighter. I am thankful for these moments. They fill my life with meaning and remind me that there is nothing better or more fulfilling than being a mom.

You have a hair where?

2011-01-29T02:59:00.000-08:00

The conversation went something like this:

Tytan: "Mom, I have hair growing!"

Me with a smile: "Oh yeah, where?"

Tytan: "Right here." (As he points to his unmentionables)

Me shocked and a little disturbed as he is only 4: "No honey, I don't think so."

Tytan: "No mom, I promise I really do."

This situation obviously needed further inspecting . . .

Tytan: "See mom."

Me with a sigh of relief and instant laughter: "No sweetie that is just fuzz from your sweatpants!"

Just a note: the fuzz was dark gray, thus the confusion :)

Polar Bear Club

2011-01-19T08:21:00.000-08:00

While we were in Arizona, Lloyd thought it would be "fun" to go swimming in the 41 degree pool while it was snowing. I have questioned his sanity for a while now and this just solidified my conclusions! He is CRAZY! But man I love him :)

All the kids cheering him on from the spa. He joined them quickly after jumping in the pool exclaiming, "Man that is cold!" I love that he was surprised at that.

Christmas come and gone!

2011-01-12T20:16:00.000-08:00

Santa definitely found our house this year and left a few things behind! We had a great Christmas. It was filled with everything that it should be: family and such a wonderful spirit of love and fun!

Santa loved the cookies and milk and the reindeer loved their oatmeal and carrots. Santa accidentally left his glove and glasses behind.

McKenna found Santa's "Naughty and Nice" list and a piece of torn suit by the fireplace.

We loved having Papa and Grandma with us! It made our Christmas morning complete.

McKenna has been asking Santa for an American Girl Doll for 3 years and finally got her wish!

Matt was thrilled with his basketball game!

Tytan finally can practice baseballs for hours on end with his baseball throwback.

The boys got these straw glasses in their stockings. They were hysterical!

We love having our Aunt Christi with us on Christmas morning

It always seems like Christmas goes by in a blur, but we had such a great day and loved every minute!

Tate Crawling

2011-01-06T12:37:00.000-08:00

The kids and I are in Arizona right now and Lloyd knew that he would miss this. Love you babe!

Let it SNOW!

2010-12-21T16:06:00.000-08:00

We woke up to this wonderful sight this morning. 2 feet of snow. Thank you Weather Man for the heads up. His forcast was rain and light snow, a possible 2-4 inches.

They got in a snow fight in the middle of me taking pictures. Lloyd thought I would be a great target, and yes he is in shorts! Can you see the snowball flying my way?

I guess we got our white Christmas :)

Gingerbread Fun

2010-12-15T20:28:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year where we have our annual gingerbread house night. My sisters and their families come over. This year was so fun. We decorated, ate, then headed off the see Narnia. It was such a fun night. Making all the pieces and then trying to put them together is such a pain, but worth it. I swear I ask myself every year "Why didn't I just buy premade ones?"

Lloyd has just as much fun as the kids!

9 ALREADY?

2010-12-13T11:48:00.000-08:00

McKenna turned 9 on November 16. I can't believe she is already so big. Where have the years gone. It seems like just a few years ago I was rocking her to sleep and playing peek-a-boo! She had a birthday week instead of day this year. We had our family party on Sunday, actual birthday on Tuesday, and then friend party on Saturday. We had lots of fun celebrating our special girl.

Friend party included 3 hours of:

*Decorate your own fairy wings.

*Pin the wings on the fairy.

*Treasure hunt planned by fairies.

*Make your own Pizza.

*Balloon popping/bubble gum game.

*Musical Present.

*Fairy pinata.

*And of course - cake, ice cream and presents!

The Family party was very low key:

*Family

*Food

*Lots of smiles!

Last call for Fall

2010-11-10T20:54:00.000-08:00

We decided to take one last run up the canyon before the snow hit to enjoy the Fall colors and have a weenie roast and s'mores. It was so beautiful and the kids had a blast. We went with my sister Becky and her crew and with my sister Christi. Love having them all close by to do these fun outings with!

Don't let the bed bugs bite!

2010-11-07T19:16:00.000-08:00

About two weeks ago, McKenna woke me up in the middle of the night because she had woken up to a cricket on her bed. When she tried to catch it, it managed to escape her and she could not go back to sleep until it was found. Well ever since that night she had been paranoid about bugs in her bed and room. A few nights ago when I went to go tuck her in, I starting teasing her that if she didn't want bugs hiding in her room, she might want to try cleaning it. Well, before Lloyd and I went to bed that night we went in to check on her and this is what we found . . .

McKenna with long PJ bottoms, a sweatshirt, gloves, socks and . . .

she has tied string and yarn around the bottom of her Pj's so that no bugs could possibly crawl up them.

This is her covering her face and crying because us taking pictures woke her up and she couldn't find the humor of the situation.

Get Your Trick On

2010-10-31T19:38:00.000-07:00

There is something about this time of year that brings out the little girl in me. The smell in the air and the fall colors make me all tingly inside. Halloween is the event that starts it all. Our week leading up to the much awaited night has been a blast. Carmel apples, booing neighbors, annual trip to Gardner Village and finishing up costumes kept us busy and happy. We celebrated Halloween on Saturday night. We had Truck-or-Treat with our ward and then went to our old neighborhood for good old fashion "tricking" as Tytan calls it.

McKenna, Matt, and Tytan with their cousins Matilda and Sarah

McKenna was a mime

Matt was a mummy

Tate our courageous lion

Tytan had wanted to be a ghost and I made him the cutest costume. Well at the last minute he decided that he wanted to be a football player instead. The little stinker. It is a good thing he is so cute!

Tate getting his first taste of a sucker.

My brother-in-law Dan looking awesome along with my sis Christi.

My sister Becky loving on Tate.

My BFF Sara rockin' the Richard Simons outfit. She is the best!

A little peek at our pumpkins

What a fun night. It always goes by way too fast. But now at least I have a lot of candy to help eat :)

The History

2010-09-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

*May 2000 - Married and lived at mom and dad's house in Loomis, CA

*January 2001 - Bought our own condo in Rocklin, CA

*August 2002 - Moved to Springville, UT

*July 2003 - Moved to Colorado Springs into an apartment

*August 2003 - Moved into a house in Colorado Springs

*July 2004 - Moved to Highland, UT

*May 2005 - Moved to Eagle Mountain, UT

*January 2006 - Moved to Payson, UT

*July 2007 - Moved to Granite Bay, CA in with Lloyd's parents while our house was being built

*November 2007 - Moved to Plumas Lakes, CA into our new house

*March 2008 - Moved back to Payson, UT

*October 2009 - Moved to another house in Payson

*September 2010 - Buying a house in Payson, moving in this weekend and planning on staying for a LONG, LONG time!

The Result = 13 houses in 10 years

(For the record, I found 2 white hairs this morning)

LOVE

2010-09-12T20:48:00.000-07:00

The kids have been having too much fun with baby Tate. Tytan especially is in love with his little brother. I was worried about them not being close buddies because they are 3 1/2 years apart, but as far as Tytan is concerned, they are best friends. Nothing makes my heart more warm and fuzzy.

Matt thought that Tate needed to try on his Boone skin hat.

Tate with his daddy's baseball cap and dimple :)

The boys snuggling in my bed watching a little show together.

I can't believe that he is almost 6 months old. Time really is flying and we couldn't love him anymore!

Catch of the Day

2010-09-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

Lloyd went fishing this weekend and brought home his success, 3 trout. The kids couldn't have been more excited to help him cut them open and clean them out.

Tytan wasn't too sure but was trying to be brave.

I was shocked at how McKenna got into gutting the fish! She was awesome.

After they were all clean, Tytan was my little helper in getting them ready to grill. We salt and peppered them, then put on butter, garlic and lemon juice. Tytan got a little crazy with the lemon juice :)

We didn't get an after shot of when they were all cooked. I am not a fish eater, but I have to admit that they were pretty good. Lloyd and I couldn't debone them fast enough for Matt and Tytan. They devoured them.

Happy Onion Days

2010-09-11T20:13:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was Payson's annual Onion Day Festivals. It is a celebration that last from Friday until Monday and is the place to be! And no, I have no idea why we have it, but I know that it is dang fun. Friday night starts out with the Varsity Football Game. McKenna and her two cousins, Matilda and Sarah, got to do a Jr. Cheer clinic and perform at the game and then at halftime. It was too cute to watch them.

Pre-game at my house getting ready to cheer!

At the game Tytan got his Lion painted on the show his school spirit.

Matt thought that this would help to show the other team they should be scared.

(That is really what he said)

I love watching Lloyd with his players.

McKenna having a blast cheering.

Monday morning was the parade in downtown. Papa and Tate love eachother.

The girls got to ride on the float with the other cheerleaders.

I had to get this shot. These girls love each other so much it is so cute!

After the parade, we headed over to the carnival. Tytan getting ready for some rides!

1st stop the Ferris Wheel

For the record, I wasn't even on the ride and my hands were sweating the whole time!

I couldn't believe that Tytan wanted to go on this one. But there he is with his hands up.

Crazy kid! Matt and McKenna were loving it the whole time as well.

This is what Lloyd tried to get me to go on. Not a chance.

So, he went on it with my best friend, Sara.

Lloyd was actually stumbling when he got off the ride. Wish I had video of it!

We had such a great weekend. I love living in our little town!

Thumb Sucker?

2010-09-07T21:19:00.000-07:00

I went to check in on Tate during nap time the other day, and this is what I found.

I really don't want to talk about it!

2010-09-07T21:07:00.000-07:00

Even though I know that it is coming, the start of school is always a little bitter sweet. Especially when they both seem WAY too big all of a sudden. McKenna started 3rd grade and Matt started 1st. I never realized how much they entertained Tytan until they started going to school ALL DAY LONG!

Big sigh . . . can't wait until the end of the day.

BYU Dinosaur Museum

2010-09-07T20:50:00.000-07:00

Before our summer fun came to a close, Lloyd and I wanted to take the kids to the BYU Dinosaur Museum and the Bean Museum. Both free and super fun. As you can tell the kids were a little camera shy and didn't want to pose!

Even Tate got in on the action and thought the lion was pretty fun.

I have to admit that I hate to see school starting again. We had such a fun filled summer. Not only am I losing all my little ones, but Lloyd has had the summer off and now has to go back to reality. BOO!

Tytan Turns Four

2010-09-07T20:17:00.000-07:00

Tytan turned 4 on August 10th. I can't believe he is already so big. We started the day off right with his requested chocolate sprinkle doughnuts.

Then we headed to Chuck-E-Cheese. I am a total germaphobe and usually avoid these kinds of places at all costs, but I have to admit it was a total blast. It was super clean and not busy at all. I'm pretty sure it helped that they had a germX dispenser about every 5 feet.

Lloyd and Tytan battling for Air Hockey championship.

At least my kids get their love of ski ball from me!

Tytan was a rockstar at the basketball shooting game

Tytan's face is priceless in this photo. Chuck E came out right as we were about to leave, but Tytan was not having any of that. So, this is about all that I was able to get.

Then, that night was had his little family party. I was going to make him a baseball cake as he requested, but when he saw this one at Sam's Club he had to have it.

McKenna, Matt and Tate gave him a bucket of baseballs. He practices his pitching everyday and then sets up the bases so that I can pitch to him and he can hit and run. I tell Lloyd that by the time we are done raising him, I will be able to play pro ball!

Next came the skateboard that Lloyd and I got him. He was in LOVE!

Papa and Grandma Mason got him a soccer net. Which came right in time for him to get ready for his first season of soccer.

We had such a fun day celebrating this special boy. Papa and Grandma Thompson as well as Aunt Christi came over to celebrate and gave him some cash to go shopping with. He is still deciding what to spend it on! Tytan has so much personality and cracks me up all the time. I am so thankful for him in my life and love that he is always making me smile :)

My not so little Project

2010-08-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

My kids were gone for a couple of weeks in California with Grandma and Grandpa Mason (thank you). I was pretty sure that I was going to go crazy with just me and the baby, but ended up going crazy with all the projects I gave myself. The first and most fun was redoing McKenna's room for her. Tate has just been in our room with us and it was time for him to move to his own room. I didn't want to put him in the basement, so Kenna was the obvious choice. I thought that if I gave her a big girl room and made it her own little retreat her feelings wouldn't be too hurt :) So this is the finished product. Sadly, looking at these pictures doesn't even come close to showing the HOURS spent on this room. I bought the quilt but decided to make the curtains, dust ruffle, duvet cover, and pillows. I also make her a memory board and modge podged her old "DREAM" letters. The colors are a little different in these pictures then in real life. I apparently had the night mode on while taking the pics. Anyway, you get the general idea. Well, when she got home, she was so excited that she almost cried. The moment couldn't have been any sweeter!

Little tribute to Nick and Justin

I modge podged her night stand too to make it fun.

This is the bottom of the dust ruffle and the bedskirt.

The duvet cover is the polka dots and these are the pillow I made, except for the sham.

I am so happy that she loves going to bed every night and keeps thanking me for her "big girl" room. I was also able to gut the whole house and go through everything and have a yard sale. I was also able to sell her old bedding and decor for $60. YAHOO! No more clutter around for me!! HEAVEN!

Lots in a Little

2010-07-20T20:40:00.000-07:00

So, I am feeling overwhelmed with all the posts that I should do, but that I am so behind on. I decided to just jam all of it into one. We have been going none stop since the summer has began. So here is what we have been up to . . .

This little guy for starters is the best baby in the world!

McKenna's been having a lot of fun with Irish Dance

Matt Graduated from kindergarten . . .

. . . and played t-ball

Tytan striking a pose at one of the games

Loving our summertime BBQ's

Enjoying our snuggle time with baby Tate!

Heading out to Arizona for our Summer Vacation at Amy's house.

Matt rockin' the hoola-hoop at the resort competition

Sooooo cute

Our trip to Sedona and slide rock

McKenna and Matt going down the "slide"

Then we headed home for Tate's Blessing

We had a wonderful at home blessing with our family. It was such a beautiful day and I am so thankful to have this sweet boy in our family.

Next was Tate's cleft lip repair. This is him before with his Uncle Christian who is doing his residency at The 'U'

Tate giggling for the nurse while she prepped him

Very sad guy after the surgery

The surgery went great and his recovery has been good. He is such a trooper.

The following week we had our Thompson Family Reunion (those pics will come later). Amy stayed afterwards with her crew and her and I took that opportunity to take McKenna and Cait the the Justin Bieber Concert. We all have Bieber Fever!

My cute girl. She was in heaven. It was so fun being there with her!

These are a few of the shots that McKenna got at the concert.

Ok. . . so those are just a few of the things that have been occupying our summer. As if that wasn't enough: the kids have been to California twice, the Thompson Family Reunion over 4th of July weekend, including the Stadium of Fire with Carrie Underwood, a weekend trip to Roy to celebrate with Lloyd's family for our two nieces birthdays and the next day was the new twins' blessing! As for me, I am just trying to recover from it all. I honestly have loved every minute of it!

Easter

2010-04-15T20:14:00.000-07:00

This Easter was extra special this year with little Tate's arrival. It also made things a little more chaotic than normal! We did manage to fit in time for dying eggs and making cupcakes. Could life be any more fun?

Our little "Mad Scientist"

Happy Easter!

Finally!

2010-04-07T11:55:00.000-07:00

My sweet baby boy is finally here! I had my C-Section on March 25th. Tate Jackson Mason was born at 10:01 am and weighed 7 lbs 13 oz and was 20 inches long. He had to be in the NICU for the first 2 days because his oxygen levels were low. But was able to come home with me on Monday. I couldn't be more in love!!! He is the best baby and the kids just adore him. He has a little cleft lip that should be an easy fix. We will be meeting with the plastic surgeon in a few weeks to find out exactly what needs to be done and when. I am recovering great and so happy to have this sweet little Spirit in our home!

The red marks on his face are from the tape from his oxygen. But he smiles all the time. Cute Boy!

Matt and Tate playing footsies

Welcome Home Tate!

Ode to Amy

2010-03-23T14:42:00.000-07:00

There is something to be said about a fabulous big sister. Someone who is not only a sister but your best friend. The person you can call everyday and never get tired of talking to. The kind of sister who comes out a week before your baby is born, on her kid's Spring Break, to save you from having a mental breakdown before baby #4. The girl that knows just what you need even when you don't. Thank you Amy for a fun filled week of: Quilting, organizing, shopping, cleaning, chatting, laughing, fun drives, but most of all for the best sanity check a girl could ask for! Love you Aimster!

Robo Fairy

2010-03-17T20:50:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when little boys start playing in or should I say sneaking into their sister's room. Dress-up time gets an entirely new element. Result= Tytan wearing his policeman helmet accompanied with Tinker Bell wings.

Brothers

2010-03-11T19:25:00.000-08:00

Matt and Tytan have become quite the buddies. I loved that they bundled up and went out while it was snowing to play some catch. I hope that boy #3 fits right in with them!

I couldn't resist the shaving cream beard picture!

Tonsils

2010-03-01T07:57:00.000-08:00

Matt had been having a lot of problems with his throat, so they decided to take out his tonsils. So we decided right after Christmas would be the best time. He couldn't have been more excited. The prospect of getting them taken out drummed up visions of pudding, Popsicles, and ice cream for weeks on end. Need less to say, the experience didn't let him down!

This is right before he went in for surgery. . .

. . .and this is after

The first thing he said when coming back to reality was, "Mom, did they save my tonsils in a jar?" Sorry honey, didn't even think about that one!

Daddy Daughter Dance

2010-02-25T19:36:00.000-08:00

McKenna had her first Daddy Daughter date night with her activity group. They had a masquerade ball and dinner. McKenna made the masks and I thought they looked so cute. They had a great night and McKenna was so excited to get to Waltz with her dad!

Fort Night

2010-02-22T10:37:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, I decided that we needed to build a fort. I was feeling like quite the boring mom because we had never built a fort before. I remember as a little kid we built them all the time and even nailed the blankets into the wall to make them sturdy! How I survived that is still a mystery. The kids loved it and we ended up keeping it up all weekend. They watched movies in it and ate popcorn. Then lloyd told them stories to fall asleep to. SO MUCH FUN!

McKenna nestled down in her private little cove.

They pulled out their flashlights so they wouldn't be scared.

6 and counting!

2010-02-17T09:15:00.000-08:00

Matt had his 6th birthday on Feb. 4. We had a family party on his birthday and then he had a friend party 2 days later. What party would be complete without: pin the tail on the donkey, bingo, musical present, balloon popping relay, bubble blowing contest, and of course the beloved pinata? We love this boy! He makes us laugh every single day.

Some things Matt loves:

*To joke

*Kindergarten

*Baseball

*Video Games

*Teasing his sister

*Talking on the phone

*Reading

Matt wanted a baseball cake for his friend party. I forgot the stripes on the ball, oops!

Bubble blowing champ!

Matt and his crew

Cake and cupcakes for family party

When we went to check on the kids before going to bed, we found that Matt had snuck into bed with McKenna and they were snuggling her night light moon. What a way to finish out the perfect day!

I should be mad but . . .

2010-01-31T20:07:00.001-08:00

I have not been able to upload any pictures with my new camera that I got for Christmas because I accidently stuck a disk in my drive that wouldn't come out. Well, I had been dreading taking in my computer and having them charge me tons of money for such a simple extraction, that I kept putting it off. Well the other day Matt came walking into my room carrying my computer. I quickly started chiding him and reminding him of the rule that you "DON'T CARRY MY COMPUTER AROUND" (I said this in a really nice voice though) He then says to me, " But mom, I accidently dropped it and look what came out!" I was momentarily stuck on the "I dropped it" part, "it" being my computer, and as I was reaching out to man handle him, I noticed that the "what" was the disk that had been stuck inside my computer and he was handing it to me. So there I was . . . what to do? Strangle him or kiss him? I calmly asked him if the computer was alright? The answer was thankfully yes. BIG SIGH! I then told him to please not carry around my computer anymore. I had to be tough still ya know, even though inside I was super excited to have my computer back to normal! As for Matt, he quickly told me sorry for dropping my computer, but I saw a little sparkle in his eyes when he said it. He knew that he had just secretly saved the day! So, that means that there will be lots of pictures to come. I have still been being a good girl and taking them!

In Loving Memory

2009-12-20T20:48:00.000-08:00

My Grandpa Pillsbury was such a huge influence in my life. He had such a love for life and for his family. He passed away on December 5th at the age of 89. I will miss him tons, but am so grateful that my kids had the opportunity to get to know him. Thank you for all the love and support Papa. I will never forget your BBQ chicken, silver dollar pancakes, fishing in Portola, playing cribbage together, pizza nights, your tender heart, and most importantly, constantly encouraging me to be the best me possible. I love you!

GInger Bread Houses

2009-12-20T20:38:00.000-08:00

We had my sister Becky and her family and my sister Christi come over for some serious Gingerbread house decorating. The kids were in heaven and had so much fun. It made the day of baking, swollen ankles, and numb thighs totally worth it (all from being prego of course).

I have to say watching Tytan was my favorite. He couldn't believe that it was legal to just squirt as much frosting as his little heart desired and eat enough candy for 10 kids. He really did do a good job at his decorating and was actually pretty meticulous.

We love our Aunt Lexy

2009-12-20T20:36:00.000-08:00

Is there really need for an explanation?

Oh Christmas Tree?

2009-12-20T20:24:00.000-08:00

The hunt for the Perfect Tree is OVER! Lexy and Matt found it this year while we were on our annual Christmas tree outing. I guess it's not the size or limbs of the tree that count right? It's about the quality bonding time with the family, the chili and cornbread, and laughing ourselves down to the local tree stand to buy ourselves a tree that doesn't have to be nailed to the wall for support.

Papa and Addie

The kids with Uncle Christian

Tytan and Aunt Brookie

Nothing like riding in the back of the truck with the tree.

The Polar Express

2009-12-20T20:12:00.000-08:00

While Lloyd's parents were in town for Thanksgiving they took us all to the Heber Creeper for The Polar Express. The night was filled with elves, stories, hot cocoa and cookies, singing, and of course, SANTA! It was pure magic. Thank you Grandma and Papa for an absolutely perfect night.

The boys with their Aunt Brooke

Tytan's glasses were a little foggy!

Tytan wasn't so sure about Santa to begin with, but decided later that he liked him.

The kids with their cousin Mason.

McKenna's Baptism

2009-12-20T20:04:00.000-08:00

The Saturday after Thanksgiving we had the wonderful opportunity to have our McKenna baptized. It was such a special day that I will never forget and I hope that she doesn't either. Lloyd baptized her and she had a lot of family who were able to be there. She was just glowing and could feel the Spirit so strong. It was such a great day!

McKenna with her Grandpa and Grandma Thompson

McKenna with her Grandpa and Grandma Mason

The whole crew

Let it SNOW!

2009-11-21T22:02:00.000-08:00

I have to admit that I have been dreading the snow. It is always my hope that the weather holds out until after Thanksgiving. We usually get a few small storms that sneak their way in and this was the first one. Well, my boys couldn't have been more excited, and that means ALL my boys. Matt and Tytan started as early as possible and Lloyd joined in as soon as he got home.

At first there wasn't much snow to work with. But apparently it doesn't really matter.

Matt was so excited to make a snow angel.

The snow started coming down more heavily. Then it was down to business!

And yes. . . Lloyd is in shorts.

Kenna turns 8

2009-11-19T19:43:00.000-08:00

So, as a mom there are always mile markers that you know your kids will hit and you don't think it will freak you out. Well, it does. I can't believe that McKenna is already 8. She is such a big girl and as much as I love all the fun things we get to do with her being older, I want my little girl forever too. We had a fun little party with just our little crew Monday night to celebrate. She will be getting baptized on the 28th and so we will have a big family get together after that. We love you Kenna girl. Happy Birthday!!!!!

She got quite a few "girly gifts" from her brothers and a desk from Lloyd and me, but I have to say that the one that made her smile the biggest was the body glitter brush from her Aunt Amy. I guess it doesn't get any better than that!

October Overview

2009-11-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

In my defense...we just went through a move (again) and in the process I misplaced the cord to my camera. Thus why October's post's are all going to be put together. At least I wasn't a slacker at taking the pictures though. October was a great month full of tons of activities and family fun!

Pumpkin Patch for Grandma Thompson's Birthday

McKenna with cousins Matilda and Sarah

Matt, cousin Cait, and McKenna

Ryan and Tytan on the hayride

McKenna and cousin Matt

Girl's trip to Gardner's Village with Aunt Amy, Caitlin, Grandma, and Aunt Christi

Girl's weekend for Kenna and I to California with Aunt Lexy and Aunt Brooke

McKenna doing Papa's hair

Going to the Bishop's Pumpkin Farm

The goats started eating my dress

McKenna and I went to go see Papa Pillsbury and Grandma Eleanor

Carving Pumpkins

From left to right: Tytan's, Mom's, Matt's, McKenna's, and Lloyd's

Carmel Apples

Finally Halloween!

Matt the BYU Football player

McKenna as Fancy Nancy

Tytan chose to be a pirate again

Now that October is over, let the craziness begin! YEAH we love the Holidays!!!!

WEEnie Roast up the Canyon!

2009-09-27T19:05:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year! Fall is definitely coming on. Beautiful colors, a chill in the air, and a campfire . . . what could make a better scene for weenies and s'mores?

Onion Day Carnival

2009-09-14T19:57:00.000-07:00

In typical "Payson" style, we kicked off our Labor Day weekend with the Onion Day Festivals. There is something about a carnival that I just can't resist. Of course the main pull is to go for the kids, but I have to admit that there is something about funnel cakes and carmel apples that makes it impossible for me to stay away. We had a blast and didn't want to leave.

Lloyd spending $10 on a dollar store stuffed animal.

McKenna and Matt had to practically pull Tytan on this ride, but he laughed the entire time.

Matt was being too cool for a photo opt.

This is the ride that Matt desperately wanted to go on, but was ruined when he found this out . .

Tytan didn't care he just thought the bear was cute.

We had to compromise on this ride, which was a little anti-climactic for the big kids.

McKenna's fancy new headband that she found for $1.

Tytan Turns Three

2009-09-13T20:35:00.000-07:00

So, Tytan's birthday was on August 10th, yes I am a little behind. I can't believe that it has already been 3 years. We decorated the house so that when he woke up on the morning of his birthday there were balloons and streamers and presents on the table. He couldn't have been more excited, of course no pictures of all this! Anytime we left the house that day he would ask me where his birthday was, because we left it at home. That night my parents put on a big party for him and his twin cousins that turned 9 and that whose birthdays are the 10th also. It was so fun to get together with everyone. We love you Tytan.

Things that make up 3:

*Running, non-stop

*Playing baseball, football, soccer, basketball . . . (I think you get the idea)

*Kisses

*Snuggling and reading books

*Prayers that include everyone he has ever met

*Independence

*A smile that melts just about anything

*Teasing his brother and sister

*Adores his daddy

*Puts a smile on his mom's face everyday

How old are you?

This is his new camera smile :)

Let me just mention these are his new glasses that they ordered the largest frames instead of the smallest. So the poor kid had to wear these until his real frames came in. Bless his heart!

P.S. He dressed himself to go out and play football, hat and all!

Of course the favorite present of the day . . . BALLS!

Birthday Cake decorations done by professionals: Mckenna and Matt (they insisted)

GOOOOOAL!

2009-08-31T19:31:00.000-07:00

Soccer has started and the kids are loving it. We are at the fields every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday night. So, a lot of lunch sack dinners. McKenna has been goalie a lot and is really good. She is a great defender!

Matt is the speed demon on his team. He scored 2 goals his first game and I have to constantly remind him that we don't practice soccer in the house. I found him outside the other morning with just a t-shirt, underwear and his soccer cleats on doing drills in the front yard while everyone was walking to school. And of course I didn't get a picture!

School Begins

2009-08-30T20:05:00.001-07:00

Well as much as I was dreading letting go of my buddies and sending then off to be away from me all day long, it is hard not to be excited for then when they are so excited. McKenna started 2nd grade this year and Matt is now a big Kindergartner. The first week of school proved to live up to all of their expectations and more. Here they are on their 1st day.

SUMMER SUMMARY

2009-08-27T19:55:00.000-07:00

Ok, so since I have been a little absent at blogging, there is a lot to catch up on. And to be honest I don't want to have to take the time to blog every single event that has happened. So I decided that I need to be able to wrap Summer up in one post so that we can move onto the present. So here it is . . . our Summer, well at least a glimpse.

Memorial Day in Manti, Utah

Dad and his brother Eric

Tytan has loved taking rides with his dad this Summer . . . very short ones!

Thanksgiving Point Farm

This baby pony was only a week old and couldn't get enough of Kenna.

I stole these pictures from my sister-in-law's blog so sorry if you have already seen them.

The kids at their cousin Mason's Birthday Party.

The Hogle Zoo

McKenna's favorite face paint of the Summer. She couldn't believe I would make her wash it off before bedtime!

Arizona trip to go see Aunt Amy and the crew. They had just gotten in their new pool.

McKenna was able to take horseback riding lessons while we were there and fell in love.

While we were in Arizona we went to Sedona and visited Slide Rock. Super COOOL.

Tytan and Ryan riding on the cooler.

McKenna was riding down the slide and couldn't stop herself before that yellow tape you see. Well she soon found out there was about a 4 foot drop off down rocks. She twisted her ankle and so I was in charge of carrying her out of the canyon. Oh the drama!

Utah County Fair

Dad is coaching football again this year. The first game and the kids are so excited for the games to start!

Payson Lake with Uncle Dan, Aunt Becky, Uncle Travis, Aunt Lori, and all the cousins.

SOOOO FUN!

The Big Red Barn Toad Hunt

Our annual raspberry picking

WHEW! This is not all, but just some of the highlights. We had such a great summer and got to spend so much time with our family. I am sad to see the days getting shorter and our schedules getting back to crazy. Is it so bad that I just want to still be waking up lazily, snuggling on the coach in our jammies and watching Animal Planet. I guess those days will have to wait. Next stop SCHOOL!

It's been a while

2009-07-26T21:09:00.000-07:00

Ok . . . So I know that I have been non-existant for the past couple months. What can I say besides it's SUMMER. We have been having too much fun for me to sit myself down to the computer very much. I will give some news of why I have been a little preoccupied . . . I am pregnant with #4! Now I am not too far along, but the process of trying has taken up quite a bit of my extra time :) I am due at the beginning of April. We couldn't be more excited. So I will try to be better at blogging, that is when I am not throwing up!

Mister Tumble Bear

2009-05-26T21:11:00.000-07:00

Matt has been doing gymnastics this year and is in the Tumble Bear class. He had his final performance this week and was quite the little showman. It was beach themed and super funny to watch.

I know this picture is fuzzy, but I had to show Matt rockin' the glasses.

Matt receiving his participation award. Is it just me or is this picture very "Rocky" esque?

I tried to upload the video of him, but it wasn't working :( I guess I am not as advanced at this blogging thing. I will keep working on it.

Softball Season Begins

2009-05-26T20:45:00.000-07:00

McKenna started softball this week and is having so much fun. She is on the Sting Rays this year with a few of her good friends, which of course is priority. The first game went well, with the exception of her visor crisis. She wanted to wear pigtails, but her visor was having a hard time sitting normal on her head with them in. After a few tears and a pep talk about how this is a ball game not a fashion show, we were ready to play. Gotta love the drama! Sorry about the fence . . . I thought it might be a bit too much to go inside the cage to get the shots. Lloyd wouldn't hear of such a thing :) By coincidence, McKenna picked the #12 which just happened to be Lloyd's number when he played. He was all smiles.

Matt's Preschool Graduation

2009-05-24T17:45:00.000-07:00

Well Matt had his Preschool Graduation on Wednesday. He has loved being at Miss Amy's but he is ready to take the next step to Kindergarten. He keeps thinking that he starts in 2 days instead of 2 months. As for me, it tugs at my heart strings a little and has brought a few tears to my eyes. I don't know what it is about the preschool to kindergarten leap that makes me feel that I am losing my little ones. It makes you realize that you really do only have a few short years with your babies. I guess they are always ready before we are to take the next step!

Matt marching in with his classmates.

Miss Amy went through and told a little story about each one of the kids. The story that she shared about Matt was that on a Show and Tell day he forgot to bring something. Well, he didn't let that stop him. He quickly informed her that he had a talent he would like to share. He happily proceeded to show his class the skill of armpit farting. We are so proud!

Matt doing the Dino Ditty song. I really should have gotten video of this. Matt was a rock star!

Matt with Miss Amy

Sunday up the Canyon

2009-05-21T20:35:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year again. YEAH! S'mores and throwing rocks in the river. What a way to spend a sleepy Sunday afternoon.

This was the rock McKenna picked to throw in.

Trip from . . .

2009-05-07T21:22:00.001-07:00

So, mom invited me to take a crazy road trip with her for Spring Break. She was going to babysit Amy's kids for a week in Arizona, so she recruited me to go with her. We decided to drive to California first to see my cousin Gina who was visiting from France and then headed on out to Arizona for the week. Sounds fun right? Well this is how it played out . . .

1. Drive to Cali on Thursday = 14 hours due to Tytan getting extreme diarhea.

2. 1st night in Cali at the in-laws = Matt waking up at 2 am vomitting.

3. Vommitting = Me disinfecting the entire house in the middle of the night and packing our bags back up realizing that we are going to get everyone there sick if we have the flu.

4. 6 am Friday morning = Booking a motel room on Priceline to stay in while we figure out what the heck we are going to do.

5. 7 am = Arrive at Motel snuggle in and make everyone rest. And of course jump on the beds in our room.

6. 2 pm Friday afternoon = Take kids to the motel pool. Hey chlorine kills bugs right?

7. 4 pm = No more puking or pooping so we take a chance and go visit my Papa in Sac.

8. 7 pm = Kids still going strong, no flu here, so we go miniature golfing thanks to Grandma Mason.

9. 9 pm = Kids down. Me falling into bed exhausted.

10. Tytan apparently feeling that the double bed just wasn't big for both of us = Me up ALL NIGHT LONG!

11. 6 am Saturday morning = Kids still on Utah time and rip raring to go.

12. 8 am Saturday morning = Checking out of motel and finally getting to go see Grandma and Papa Mason and Lexy, Matt and their two girls.

13. 10 am = Meeting up with Gina, mom, brother Travis, Lori and their crew at the park in Roseville. We didn't get the memo that it was big brother/sister day at the park. So we shared it with about 300 other kids. It was nice and relaxing. Didn't worry about the kids at all.

14. 1 pm = met up with the Mason crew again at Earth Day in Rocklin.

15. 3 pm = Went to the Folsom Zoo.

16. 4 pm = Back to Papa and Grandma's house to finally relax. The kid's swam and we had a great birthday dinner for Grandma.

17. 7 am Sunday morning = Headed out for Arizona (This drive only took 12 hours)

18. Sunday - Sunday in Arizona with 7 kids (mine plus Amy's) = Nonstop: laundry, cooking, cleaning, bathing, crying (the kid's not me), holding, reading, playing, driving, entertaining, and last but not least . . . REFEREEING.

*I guess that only thing to say is: Thanks mom for inviting me. It was the best Spring Break a girl could ask for!

Here are some of the highlights:

Gina's baby James

The kid's golfing

The park with Lainey, Luke, McKenna, and Matt

Tytan fell in love with his Uncle Turk

Grandma Eleanor with the kids

Papa and the kids

Temple

2009-05-03T19:08:00.000-07:00

Well, like I said in my earlier post we decided to go to the Provo Temple on Easter Sunday morning. It was so great to go and feel the Spirit that was there. The kids loved walking around and mostly loved the water fountains. It was a perfect start to a wonderful Easter Sunday.

Easter Eggs and Hunt

2009-05-02T10:10:00.001-07:00

So, I know that Easter was forever ago, but I won't even go into the drama of the past month. Just know that this is the first chance I've had to catch up. Our Easter was great. Nothing out of the ordinary, but so fun. On Saturday we did the egg decorating thing and saw the creative sides come out. It was funny to see how much time the kids took. This was serious business. Then we read our Easter story to talk about why this occasion is so special. The Spirit was so strong. It was neat to see that the kids could feel it and really were able to get why Easter is so important. Then, Easter morning came and the hunt began. The best part is after that was all done and we had our breakfast, McKenna suggested that we should go get ready for church and then go to the temple. We don't have church until 1:00 and so we had plenty of time to do that. It was such a special day. The temple pictures will be coming next!

Band Aids

2009-04-03T10:11:00.001-07:00

As I was folding laundry this morning Matt came in and informed me he needed a band aid for a cut on his leg. I helped him get them out of the closet and then went about my business. The next thing I knew I heard giggling behind me and turned to see the funniest/disturbing sight. Need I say more?

I'm a big kid now!

2009-04-01T20:23:00.001-07:00

Well our little Tytan has finally conquered the toilet! He has been great at going pee for a month or so, but the whole #2 has been a bit dramatic. I don't know why it is so scary, but the poor kid just couldn't bring himself to do it. No amount of bribing was doing the trick. Even the poo-poo dance didn't do more than make him giggle at us. Then one day Lloyd decided instead of us coming up with what we thought would be a good prize he would ask Tytan what he wanted. After a few hummms and hahhhhs the final decision was a yellow bike. Ok so now we had the bait. So we went down to Walmart let him pick out what bike he wanted and told him when he could do his business on the toilet the bike was his. I will add that the original bike that he picked out was $80 and we strategically guided him to the "rocket bike" for $38. CHA CHING and the rest is history!!! Not bad, potty trained by 2 and a half.

This is his new "picture" smile!

And now we are flexing our muscles

For some reason this is the position of choice. Hey buddy what ever works!

Last Monday night we went and got the bike and at 6:40 am Tuesday morning I woke up to Tytan breathing in my face telling me that he wanted to go ride his bike. He hasn't wanted to get off since. The snow hasn't even slowed him down.

Thought of the day

2009-03-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

The Infinite Power of Hope

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

No matter how bleak the chapter of our lives may look today, because of the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we may hope and be assured that the ending of the book of our lives will exceed our grandest expectations. "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him." God will wait with open arms to receive those who give away their sins and continue in faith, hope and charity. And to all who suffer --- to all who feel discouraged, worried, or lonely --- I say with love and deep concern for you: Never give in. Never surrender. Never allow despair to overcome your spirit.

Embrace and rely upon the Hope of Israel, for the love of the Son of God pierces all darkness, softens all sorrow, and gladdens every heart.

GIRLS WEEKEND

2009-03-20T18:08:00.000-07:00

So my sweet sister Amy decided that for my 30th birthday her and I deserved a little get away. She flew me out to Phoenix on March 5 so we could have a little girlie time. I have to admit that along with the excitement of getting away, I was having complete ANXIETY! If it wasn't for my fabulous hubby I probably wouldn't have gone. Don't get me wrong... I wanted to have a little break from my mommy craziness, but would the kids survive without me for 5 days? Would McKenna get to and from school OK? Would Matt make it to preschool and gymnastics on time? Could Tytan possibly survive that long without me without needing therapy? Could they really make it without me? YES! YES! and YES! Thanks to my husband, parents, and awesome friends. For all of you who made it possible: Thank you for helping me see that I am still a girl who loves to sleep in, go shopping, not have a schedule, and most of all... help me see that after all the fun and partying, I couldn't wait to come home and be mom again. AMAZING!

Amy picked me up from the airport in her new convertible VW BUG!! How cute is she? I couldn't think of a better way to cruise... top down and radio blasting. I really felt 16 again. Her and I spent Thursday and Friday night in Scottsdale. Mainly shopping, sleeping and eating :)

* FABULOUS *

On Saturday we headed up to Sedona and stopped off at the Montezuma Castle. It is this really neat historical site where Native Americans carved out their houses in the side of the cliffs. It was pretty amazing.

We made it to Sedona and cruised the main street. We hit some fun shops and paid way too much for chocolates and ice cream. It was heaven!

Saturday night we made it back to Amy's house and I enjoyed 2 days with my darling niece and nephews. It was so much fun to be the main attraction and to be able to give them my full attention. Thank you Amy for such a great weekend. I needed it more than I realized. It is like my mom once told me, "It is important to get away once in awhile so you can remember why you started it all in the first place." So true right? Being single and free was fun for the weekend, but I sure couldn't wait to get back to where I belong.

Dr Seuss Day

2009-03-12T18:59:00.000-07:00

McKenna had Dr Seuss Day at school and this is the fun outfit that she came up with. She is a funny girl! She had so much fun being silly.

Confessions of a now 30 year old

2009-02-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

The things I've learned about me...

*My husband is perfect for me, makes yummy cinnamon rolls, and is great at snuggling.

*Nothing makes me smile like my 3 beautiful kids who smother me with kisses and surprisingly think of me as perfect.

(slightly skewed insight I know, but hey I'll take it!)

*My favorite pair of jeans are uncomfortably snug, but I can still breathe when I button them.

*I can survive night after night of interrupted sleep.

*Justin Timberlake makes me feel like the 15 year old groupie I never was.

*I still need my mommy when I'm sick.

*I have the best friends a girl could ask for.

*A good haircut can make the extra 10 lbs just seem to melt away.

*There is something to be said about spending the moola and buying a Victoria Secrets bra.

*Exercise is overrated.

*Chocolate is not.

*I can still play a mean game of hide-and-seek.

*A mini van excites me more than I would like to admit.

*Diet DR Pepper is a girl's best friend.

*I am still afraid of the dark.

*I know that chest hair should gross me out, but I kind of like it? (only Lloyd's of course)

*I am finally starting to accept I will never have another growth spurt.

*I couldn't imagine my life without the Gospel and am so blessed to have it.

*I couldn't be happier and have had the best birthday a girl could ask for.

... and my diet will start tomorrow!

Not just any Rice Crispy Treat

2009-02-19T09:39:00.000-08:00

Matt was in charge of the treat for FHE and after much deliberation, decided that rice crispies were the best option. But we couldn't just leave well enough alone. We decided to put strawberry marshmallows in them, cut them out in star shapes, dip them in white chocolate, and then last but not least top them off with sprinkles. SOOOOO GOOD!

My BIG Helper

2009-02-17T09:33:00.000-08:00

Call me crazy... I had never thought to just remove and disassemble the entire dishwasher when I was unloading it. Makes sense right?

Matt turns 5

2009-02-16T12:45:00.001-08:00

So Matt is the BIG 5!!! The day started with his requested doughnuts for breakfast, then off to preschool, then that night a pizza party with his cousins and grandparents. We had such a fun day and I can't believe that he is already 5. He requested this football cake (like the one he had last year) We can't get enough of his fun dance moves and his great smile. WE LOVE YOU MATT! Happy Birthday.

Matt with his cousins Matilda and Sarah, McKenna and Tytan.

Grandma and Grandpa Thompson

Aunt Christi

Matt with his new WEBKINZ. He loves these things.

Cool new bike.

Tytan's Candy Necklace

2009-01-20T14:11:00.000-08:00

So we got our Valentine package from Grandma and Papa Mason yesterday and the kids were too excited. They couldn't wait to pull out everything and see what they had got. Well Tytan's favorite find was a candy necklace. Now mind you this was not just any candy necklace it was like a 3 foot long candy necklace. Well we had been in the kitchen a little while when I hear his new favorite phrase, "Oh my dosh mom, oh.... my.... dosh." I turn around to find this.

Free at last! And please don't comment on the hair. We were having a bad hair day:)

2009-01-18T19:42:00.000-08:00

Of course he is in his shorts!

Lloyd's family all was able to come down for the holidays and it was so fun. They stayed with us a couple of days and we partied like rock stars. Lloyd made his world famous turkey for Christmas Eve and it was sooooooo yummy! He has turned into quite the little chef. Isn't it pretty! Everything was super good and it definitely started off the holidays right!

Ok Dad, don't kill me for this picture. I think you look cute!

My crew and Lexy's two little ones in their Christmas Eve PJ's.

2009-01-18T19:34:00.000-08:00

The best part about this was that Tytan figured this out before he even unwrapped it and was hopping around on it wrapping and all! Didn't get that shot though :(

Our True Blue Cougars Fan

I promise he is not abused.

I think that we have found the new musician in the family.

Cooking Classes

2009-01-18T19:28:00.000-08:00

Well, I am following in my big sister's footsteps and started doing cooking classes for the wee ones. We have so much fun! I have about 15-20 students each time (not all in one class!) and I teach them basic cooking technics along with making yummy new foods for them to try, and give their little taste buds a new adventure. I do it one day a month a have a couple classes throughout the day. It is fun being able to share my talents while playing!

Road Trip 101

2009-01-18T19:20:00.001-08:00

When you go on as many road trips as we do, it is vital that you become one with nature. On our way to Cali for Brooke's wedding these two had no problem pulling off of the side of the road and giving this tire a renewed sense of purpose as target practice started. McKenna and I just longingly stared wishing it were that simple.

Kenna Benna turns 7

2009-01-18T19:04:00.001-08:00

I can't believe that time really does fly by as fast as they tell you it will. It just seems like I was in the hospital a couple of years ago having our first special blessing enter into our lives. McKenna has been such a blessing to our home. She arrived on November 16, 2001, 7:39 at night weighing 7 lbs 11.2 oz. And we were positive that she was the most beautiful thing that we had ever seen. (Our opinion may have been slightly jaded :) But she has turned into a babe!

McKenna had a super spa party with a bunch of her friends from the neighborhood. They went on a scavenger hunt, played musical present, made bath salts, opened presents and had yummy cupcakes. McKenna is such a good friend and it shows by how many happy faces are surrounding her.

Small family party at home with just our little crew.

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl! We Love You!

I know.... I know

2009-01-10T19:16:00.000-08:00

For all of you who keep yelling at me about updating my blog.... I am officially sorry that I have been such a slacker. The holidays were a little crazier than normal and I haven't been good a good girl, I know! But I promise when I do upload my pics it will be lots. SO BE READY!!!!!

Quote of the Day

2008-11-06T18:48:00.000-08:00

Matt: "Hey mom, I'm thinking of a word that starts with 'P' "

Me: "Ummm, party?"

Matt: "Nope"

Me: after a few more guesses, "Honey, it is going to take me forever to guess. Why don't you just tell me."

Matt: "Mommmm (as in this is super easy) the word is 'Po Po' .... like the Po Po are going to take you to jail!"

Of course it was. Can't believe I didn't get that one. My bad!

Bring it on!

2008-11-06T17:58:00.000-08:00

Well we woke up yesterday morning with our first official snow of the season. The kids were dying all day until dad got home so that they could have their traditional snowball fight. Unfortunately, a lot of the snow had melted by the time Lloyd got home, but they didn't let that slow them down at all. And yes... Lloyd is in shorts.

In the middle of the night...

2008-11-02T17:37:00.000-08:00

It was 1:30 in the morning when I hear:

"Jessica... Jessica.... did you fall asleep with gum in your mouth?"

"Ummm, I don't think so. Why?"

"Did one of the kids have any?"

"I don't know. Lloyd what it going on?"

"I have gum all over my legs and arms!"

I turned on the lights and sure enough, the poor kid had gum melted all in his leg hair and arm hair. Apparently some gum had gotten on our blanket, from the Halloween stash I am sure. Well as my little Lloyd was snuggled up for the night he shoved the blanket in between his legs like normal, and the gum had slowly but surely transfered from the blanket to his nice warm legs. I was trying so hard not to laugh hysterically as I was pulling out the gum with clumps of leg hair attached. It took ever fiber of my body to not say, "Hold on babe, I just have to grab the camera. These pictures would be great for the blog."

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-01T11:10:00.000-07:00

The Spook is on! What a fun night we had last night. The kids were sooooo excited.

McKenna came out of her norm of princess/fairy this year and was a Vampiress. I have to admit she even scared me a little! For the record this is her real hair!

Summom the spirit of the "Tiger". GOOOOO Power Rangers!

AAAAARGH! Once he finally let us get his costume on, he thought he was pretty cool.

How cute is Grandma?!

All of us went to Grandma's and Papa's house for our yearly popcorn balls and goodies.

Could the joy be more evident? It finally hit him that candy was involved and it was all over!

Raking Leaves

2008-10-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

The kids decided that today they wanted to go in the back yard and rake up some of the leaves so they could jump in them and play. Doesn't that just bring back fun memories... Oh to be a kid again!

We started out happy...

especially Tytan...

then he decided it would be fun to run through the leaves while Kenna was raking...

So she had to have a little talking to him and you can see how that worked!

Daddy even decided to come out and help

The kids decided the shopping cart would be helpful in picking up leaves from the yard.

Oh.... this is the life!

Peeling Potatoes

2008-10-28T18:30:00.000-07:00

I was making potato soup for dinner tonight and McKenna and Matt immediately jumped in to help peel potatoes. Well Tytan thought it was pretty rude that he didn't get to help. He kept hollering at all of us that he wanted a turn too. I finally decided that he wouldn't know the difference between a potato peeler and some other random kitchen tool. So, I pulled one out for him and then he decided to go to the drawer and try out a bunch of different ones. These were his favorite picks...

Spatula

Cookie scooper

Garlic Press

And a whisk!

He was very happy with his success and was singing...... "Yeah Baby, Yeah, Baby" the entire time he was "peeling." I never knew potato peeling was so exciting! It's got to be the Irish in him :)

Carving Pumpkins

2008-10-28T18:10:00.001-07:00

So we decided to try our skills at pumpkin carving. The kids are getting bigger and figured that it was time to start doing the real art. You know what kind I mean... big kid pumpkins. Not just the silly little faces, but the kind of pumpkins that make you feel like you have really accomplished something! 3 hours later, this is what we came up with...

Look at those muscles!

McKenna's Witch

Mom's "Trick or Treat"

Lloyd's Skull

He gets sooooo serious!

Yeah we were a little done by the time it came to Tytan's. Aren't we creative?!

And Matt's little devil boy.... my personal favorite!

This is S'mores stuff...

2008-10-13T19:06:00.000-07:00

"First you take the graham. You stick the chocolate on the graham. Then, you roast the mallow. When the mallows flaming, you stick it on the chocolate and cover it from the other end. Then, you scarf!"

Best quote ever from? Anyone? Anyone?....

For FHE we did a bonfire in the backyard and had a blast. We won't talk about the fact that it was 40 degrees outside!

I don't know? Is it perfect?

OOOOOOOOOOOOH!

Tytan's first S'more ever. He thought it was pretty yummy, but decided to just go for the bag of marshmallows. After about 10 I had to cut the poor kid off. Child abuse....I know!

The decision is in. An official S'mores fan has been born!

Did she just say that?

2008-10-07T18:02:00.000-07:00

I took McKenna, her friend Sadie and the boys to go get ice cream cones and then to the park after school. This was the conversation that took place in the car while eating our cones....

McKenna: "My mom doesn't like us to watch Sponge Bob, but Matt sneaks it sometimes."

Sadie: "My mom let's me watch Sponge Bob."

Me: "Well, honey most kids can watch Sponge Bob. I just think that if my kids are going to watch TV there are a lot better choices to watch. That's all.

Sadie: "Oh, did your mom not let you watch it when you were little?"

Me: "They didn't have Sponge Bob when I was little."

McKenna: "Yeah, my mom was born in the 70's."

Sadie, with an understanding/sympathetic nod: "Ohhhh."

Me laughing really hard then saying, "Kenna how did you know that I was born in the 70's?"

McKenna extrememly surprised and with a huge smile: "You mean I was right?!!"

Pickin' Pumpkins!

2008-10-07T09:32:00.001-07:00

Well it is that time of year YIPEE! It was Grandma Thompson's Birthday. So, to celebrate we all got together and went on a hayride, picked pumpkins, and then roasted weenies back at our place. So good to have our family around us. We missed those that weren't with us though and we thought a lot about our Papa Mason who also had his birthday on the same day. We love you and miss you!

Miss McKenna is a little grumpy trying to find the perfect pumpkin.

2008-10-07T09:15:00.000-07:00