THE CODNER'S

Early Thanksgiving in Lavercan

2012-01-21T23:27:00.000-07:00

Above is Spencer using the force. I am very far behind so I am guessing a little on the date. I think it was November 11th thru 17th that we went to Lavercan to meet up with Family (Grandma, Matt, Tom and Chelsea) and go to Zion's National Park. We also had a Thanksgiving celebration since we weren't going to be able to meet up with family on the actual day of Thanksgiving. Lavercan is this great little town right outside of Zion's. When I say little you really don't get it, there is all of one stop light at the very end of town. Small town aside we sure did have a great time. Steve even got to come with us, we love it when Dad comes. Below we are all doing P90X together, everyone except me, I had just had knee surgery 3 weeks earlier and was still having trouble with it. Only to find out about 3 weeks later I had to go back in for another surgery. I need to write about all of that business in some other post.

At the house in the backyard was a very "awesome" tree house. my kids loved it. They also loved the hammock that sat right below it. They spent a lot of time laying on it all curled up in a blanket reading.

Eliza loved this rope swing, I'm surprised she let Uncle Matt have a turn.

We played a lot of games this trip, sequence was a popular game, so was Uno. It got a little competitive to, below you can see how upset Grandma was getting. Dallin kept putting down, draw fours, and draw two's. Dallin was down to 2 cards and you can see how many he got Grandma up to.

It was a little overcast the day we went to Zion's, but still spectacular.

On the way home everyone was obviously very tired. It's only a 10-15 minute car ride home and yet they all managed to pass out.

Everyone else had to get home to work but the kids and I got to stay for a few more days. We went to a ghost town one day, I can't remember the name of it but we took some fun pictures there. Those three kids are defiantly my GOLD.

Dallin and Eliza having a shoot off.

This dog was the funniest part of the whole Ghost Town trip. While we were there we literally saw NO one. We were going down this rode just checking out the homes in the little town and we drove up on this little dog in the rode, he didn't move a muscle. We drove up on him, went in reverse, and drove back up on him. We sat there for a while then even honked the horn at him. This little dog sat right in the middle of the rode for a good 5 minutes. Finally it got up and ran up towards our car. The kids were looking out all the car windows trying to find out where the dog went, they were spooking themselves out saying the little dog was a ghost. It was really funny.

Just being goofy and pointing towards town.

We also went on a tour of Brigham Young's home, below we are picking almonds.

We went hiking one day at our favorite slick rock park in St. George.

I have no idea what they are playing but I love it.

Steve with his kids in the tree house, best Dad ever.

We went to our favorite spin park in St. George.

After the park we stopped by Mia's burial spot. Our very dear friend's the Dodge"s lost their sweet baby girl Mia a few years ago. Stopping by was to say hello to her, was bitter sweet. I'm so glad we did. Funny story about visiting her. I haven't talked to Julie, Mia's mother in a good 6 months. We were passing graveyard on the way to the park and I said to my kids, "On the way home after the park, let's go by and say hi to Mia." About a minute later Julie called me. It sent chills all over me. That is just not a coincidence.

it was such a fun trip, very relaxing. I got to hang out with my kids, do fun things, we read books, played games, talked about nothing, watched movies. We piled up in the same bed every night and read. Some of my favorite days, ever.

Dallin's Lego my Eggo Team is in the news

2011-12-08T10:00:00.001-07:00

http://northernarizonanews.com/blog/2011/12/06/naztoday-show-december-5-2011/

If you give the link a little bit of time it will pull up.
The clip on Dallin's Lego my Eggo team, starts at, 13 min and 40 sec, (right around there) and runs for about 2 min. You don't see Dallin until the very end and it's just the back of his head, he is standing next to his best buddy Blake at the computer. You do get to see what he and his Lego team have been up to for the past couple months. His team is the youngest, 4th graders. They competed against 8th grade teams and they took 3rd out of 33 teams. We are off to Phoenix this Saturday for the state competition, at ASU.

Spencer wishes you all, "A Very Merry Christmas"

2011-12-04T18:45:00.002-07:00

The Destroyer

2011-11-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

Tonight was to much, Steve and I thought the situation was so funny, but it turned bad so quickly. Eliza was building a fort down stairs. Spencer kept knocking it over and destroying it, she was getting a little hysterical over the whole thing so we said, "if you want to build a fort go upstairs and build one." our upstairs is a big open loft so when Eliza yelled down, "I need some help." Spencer flew out of his seat and yelled,"OK." While running up the stairs to help her. Eliza got hysterical and starts yelling, "No, you are not a HELPER, you are a DESTROYER." I wish you could have heard the fear and anger in her voice. I guess at this point we should have intervened. However I was working on scouts and Steve was watching the Chiefs. Also it was kind of funny. Next thing we hear is fighting, "Spencer get away, get out of here you destroyer." What we didn't know was he picked up a sword on the way up the stairs. Next thing we hear is a blood curtailing scream, we think Eliza is being dramatic. We were wrong, she has a huge bruise across her cheek. Spencer took a swing at her while she was trying to push him out of her room. I know, it's not funny that she has a bruised cheek, but the whole incident is really funny to me. Sorry Eliza!

Seven Peaks

2011-11-16T23:15:00.000-07:00

August the 16th

My kids think they are so grown up. They don't need me any more to hover over them at water parks. They each got to bring a friend. I could barely get sunblock on them before they ran off. Of course they came back for food and money. Matt went off with Dallin and Ford for a while. Eliza and Emmy spent a lot of time at the lazy river and the wave pool. Emmy does not like water slides, so of course Eliza gave into pier pressure and said they were to scary for her to. Don't worry Matthew and I drug her onto one, and then she realized she loves water slides and couldn't get enough of them. Dallin and Ford raced all over doing a lot of the slides. They spent a lot of time on the rope swings, I did to they are a lot of fun. Eliza and Emmy are having some dip-n-dots under the umbrella.

Uncle Matt and Spencer soaking up the sun. I know summer just got over but I really miss the heat and the sun.

Dallin and his best buddy Ford. I love these two boys.

They think they are so cool, and they are.

Of course they had to pose for a picture hurting each other. This is one guy thing I will never understand/

Spencer spent about half of the day with us. He was the only almost 2 year old in the pool with out floaties. I took him to the pool for the 4-6 year olds. I helped him the first few times going up the stairs to the water slide and then stood by while he tried to figure out how to get his feet under him at the bottom of the slide. He got it after a few times and then I just sat on the side of the pool while he went down the water slide about a hundred times. He and Eliza are water babies. they could possibly have gills. I will have to check.Thomas came and picked him up around 1 to take him home for a nap. Matthew and I got to go on all sorts of slides that I really didn't want to go on. But thanks to pier pressure Matt talked me into it. Yes, I think I was actually shaking on a few of them.

After Matthew and I finished up with all the terrifying water slides, we rounded up the kids and went over to the racing slides. We did that a few times, and I call for a redo. Matthew thinks that he won every race. I only lost because I just had knee surgery and could not bend my leg to push off as well as the rest of them. After all the racing, we had to leave a little earlier than we wanted. That night there was a shower for Chelsea at my parents house. I wish I would have taken more pictures at the shower, but I got caught up catching up with everyone.

Camping at Tibblefork

2011-11-16T22:13:00.001-07:00

August 11th and 12th

We got into town on the 10th for Tom's wedding, the wedding wasn't until the 19th so we had lots of time to play. We went to Tibblefork, in American Fork Canyon in Ut.on the 12th.

It really was such a beautiful place. Steve and I used ti camp here all the time during out college years.

Uncle Tom and Uncle Matt came with us. Thank goodness because I couldn't of done it without them. I was post knee surgery only 3 weeks on this camping trip, so I didn't get to do a lot of hiking.

I was busy running around trying to get all the camping gear ready so I asked the kids to pack themselves. BIG mistake. It gets really cold in the canyon at night and no one brought pj's. I even forgot Spencer's, and since I didn't want my kids to freeze I gave them mine. I layered everyone up the best I could. Eliza is wearing one of my shirts and my bathing suit cover up. Spencer is wearing one of my shirts and my socks on his hands and arms to try and keep him war. Dallin is in my sweats. Thomas and Matt gave up some of there clothes so I didn't freeze. However it was a cold night seeing as how we didn't have blankets or pillows. We had sleeping bags and about 2 blankets but it didn't help much.

Thank goodness we had a great fire. We all stayed warm as long as we stayed close to the flames.

The morning after a very long night of NO sleep and i wasn't the only one. Eliza, Spencer and myself ended up in the back of the pilot and left the boys in the tent with a few more blankets so they could bundle up and stay warm. We used the heat in the car.

Just a cute picture of Spencer with his Uncle Matt.

Honestly my kids have the best Aunts and Uncles. Our kids are so spoiled and lucky to have them. I hope they realize someday how loved they are.

That Blondie, is me in the back of the pilot. Just trying to get a little bit of beauty rest.

We packed up camp and headed over to the lake to fish. Uncle Matt was so sweet to help the kids fish.

Eliza attempting to swim, however the water was way to cold. Spencer fell in and came up with a look of total shock and terror because of how cold it was.

We spent about half the day up there and made it home in time for dinner. Later that night Uncle Erik helped Spencer get in full camo. He looked so cute.

Taylor Swift Concert

2011-11-16T10:29:00.001-07:00

October 21st-23rd

This was the best weekend. Eliza and I need to do this at least once a year. The boys are going to copy us. They are taking a weekend and going to the Chiefs vs. Cardnials football game soon. Liza Lou and I had so much fun they want in on the party. This is how the weekend went. We left for Pheonix early, did some shopping, and let me tell you Eliza is a great shopper when it's about her. We then went and got our nails done. After our mani, pedis, we checked into our room and got all ready for the concert. Then Eliza and I went out to eat and headed over to the big show. It was so much fun to just be with her.

When the concert finally started Eliza had to leave her head and ears hurt. So I got a napkin and made ear plugs then we went back in sang and danced the night away.

The concert got over around 11:30 so of course on the way home she fell asleep. (This si when I wish Steve was around) I had to carry her in from the car all the way to the room. We slept in a little the following morning and then headed out to the pool. Eliza got her lunch pool side, with a smoothie and thats when she told me, "we really should do this all the time Mom." Agreed!!! We swam till 1 then went in got all ready to do some more shopping, went out to eat one last time, then headed home. We got home pretty late that night, and yes the whole way home we had microphones and sang to the Taylor Swift CD.

Halloween Party

2011-11-16T09:54:00.001-07:00

October the 15th
Tradition!!! I guess now, not only is it tradition for my kids, but from what I hear from other parents their kids look forward to it to. Almost as much as trick or treating. One mom told me her daughter put her costume on the morning of the party and couldn't wait for it to star. It's those comments and the excitement for the kids that makes the 2 weeks of hard work (1 week of prep and about 1 week of clean up) ALL WORTH IT. My kids obviously love it to. This year was a little different we invited some parents. I think next year will be even bigger and we will just have to invite everyone. It's hard to choose who gets to come and who doesn't. As tradition goes the kids bobbed for apples, had a doughnut eating contest, this year we had a pinata, and of course as tradition goes I made a ton of food.

Bobbing for apples and the doughnut contest

Spencer was Darth Vader, Han Solo was there and he so kindly shared his gun with Spencer.

Han and Leia

Some Pirates

Ann Marie, trying to bust in on Kevin and Claudia. Lucky, Kevin.

Eliza and Tabby. Just in case you can't tell what they are, they are fish. Tabby, is a goldfish. Eliza is a angelfish. Dallin is to cool and was off with his friends the second they showed up.

Dan and Marisa, she is a Pink Lady.

Candy GOODS!

Monster cupcakes!

This year, I climbed trees and broke branches to make my front porch a little spooky. Yes, I really climbed trees. I spent about 3 hours hanging branches and putting crows all over.

I drug this big old piece of wood over for the owl to sit on.

These pretzels were easy to make and a huge hit.

One of the many food stations.

I would make a few changes, but over all such a fun night. I wish I had pictures from the pinata but I was to busy spinning kids and making sure no one got hit by the bat.

Portland, Oregon

2011-11-11T19:15:00.001-07:00

Steve's surgery October the 4th, Oregon trip October 6th-10th

When it's just Steve and I, I really stink at taking pictures. We came home with 4 pictures from the whole trip. Steve had to take some CE classes and since he didn't work it out to take them in Hawaii or on a cruise we went to Portland. It was fun to get away with Steve for a few days. I had forgotten what it's like to be alone. Truthfully, we didn't do to much. Steve had shoulder surgery 3 days before we left, he was a little sore and uncomfortable. We did go out on the town, a few times. On Saturday we went to the market downtown, we went out Saturday night and got GREAT seafood. We did a little bit of shopping. They don't have sales tax, so I'm sure we ended up saving money. :) We got to sleep, sleep in, and even take a nap if we wanted. I'm already, ready for another vacation away from the kids.

Downtown at the market. This tattooing happened before we left on our trip. It took him maybe 3-5 minutes to color both of his legs.

Washington DC

2011-11-03T14:37:00.001-07:00

September the 20th through the 27th

Any time the neck is cracked, a major artery is threatened. If you happen to compress this artery while cracking your neck, it could cause a stroke. This is why I took off to DC. My little sister Sarah cracked her neck and landed herself in the Nero ICU for 10 days. They ended up having to remove part off her skull to allow room for her brain to swell. It was a pretty nerve racking 2 weeks. Sarah, is a walking miracle, "Watson." She is still struggling with some side effects but is doing amazing and is almost back to 100%. We love her and are so thankful she had great doctors and our Father in Heaven on her side. It was really good timing on her part, it was my sister Rachel's birthday and we were lucky enough to fly out there to stay with them for a week. While it wasn't an event filled week it was fun to hang out with my sisters and we did manage to shop, see a few sites, and eat some great food. Spencer got to take a tub which I know he loves. We only have showers at our house. We decorated for Rachel's birthday, sweet 16 style.

I took Spencer to the Natural History Museum. He was running from room to room screaming, "whoo, you see that." He was having the best time.

Eliza's class is doing Flat Stanley, we were going to send it off to Sarah anyways so while we were there we just had Spencer hold him up every where we went. After a couple of times he had the drill down and would grab little Stanley hold him up and smile. Spencer and Stanley in front of the White House.

Aunt Rachel Spencer and Stanley in front of the capital. There was a walk for the cure that day, the finish line was at the capital, so the music was playing. We could barley get Spencer out of there he was having such a great time dancing.

Rach with her new pilot boyfriend.

Spencer and Stan, at the Lincoln Memorial, and below we are at the World War 2 Memorial

Of course we couldn't leave without a hair cut, Spencer was so good during this one, shooking! His last one it took 3 of us to hold him still.

Out to eat in Georgetown.

Rodeo

2011-11-03T13:56:00.001-07:00

September the 5th, Labor Day

Before we jump right into the rodeo, Spencer loves books and his Dad loves to read to him. Anytime Spencer sees letters on a sign or in a book he says, "E, R, O." Not to sure why he says those letters and in that order, but that's what he does. Over Labor Day weekend we went to the rodeo in Williams with the Grahams. It was fun enough.

Just waiting for the big show to start. Below is Eliza and Tabby.

Lucy is such a trooper to put up with Spencer, she is not always this patient.

Spencer's 2

2011-11-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

I don't have a complaint about this kid. LOVE EVERYTHING about him. He loves sports, football, baseball, basketball, soccer, (in that order) and is honestly amazing a every single one of them. :) If you make him upset, or try and take something that belongs to him he yells, "Hey!" While squinting his eyes and protecting his things. He loves cars. He loves Darth Vader. He is the most popular 2 year old I know. Everyone in the halls at Dallin's and Eliza's school knows who he is. All the ladies love him in the school office. They all call him into their rooms or come out of their rooms to take turns shooting him dead, and watching him stagger around until he dies. I always get from parents, "If you could promise me a Spencer, we would have another baby." Most kids say if they could pick a little brother is would be Spencer. He is the life and joy when he walks into a room. He is starting to try me a little, but it's not tough, I think it's cute. OBVIOUSLY, the BABY of the family. He is talking a lot, and we are going to work on potty training as soon as this next vacation is over between a dozen vacations since May, and 3 surgery's I haven't had the time. He loves to make people laugh. He loves books, Steve reads about 3 to 5 every night one of his favorite parts of the day. He is obsessed with his "uh uh", and blanket. His "Uh uh." is his binki, he has named it his "uh uh" because every time he buts it in his mouth and he is not in bed I say, "uhuh" give me that." There for it is the "Uhuh." He loves his Dad, but which of my kids doesn't love their Dad. He is every one's little buddy and was so worth all the heartache and patients it took to get him here.

Happy Birthday, Spencer we all love you.

Tom and Chealse's Wedding, Aug 19, 2011

2011-11-02T11:50:00.001-07:00

This was the best wedding ever, everyone is talking about it. It was beautiful weather, great families and friends, the venue was perfect and the food was the BEST. It really came down to the two that were getting married, we love Tom and Chelsea can't even explain how perfect these two are for each other. Besides how perfect they are for each other the best part was the DJ and the dance party. My kids and myself, even Steve and Thomas danced the night away. Spencer and Eliza spent the most time out there about 3 hours those two never left the floor. Spencer may have even stole a little of Tom's thunder that boy can dance. Dallin even got paid to do his dance moves.

At the temple waiting for Tom and Chelsea to come out.

Cousin Alexis, Aunt Laura, Uncle Clark, Kendall, Grandma Goesch, my Mom

All the cute flower girls in waiting...

Desi and Erik

Desi, Grandma Estelle, Aunt Linda, Steph and Suzanne (in the back), Grandma Goesch

Yea, Thomas!!! It's official

At the luncheon

Starting to wear on the kids, Eliza

Dallin

Spencer, time to head home for naps.

But first we got to hear all the speeches and I have to say everyone did a great job and it was a very touching afternoon. I love these two.

Let the party begin, the candy bar. Eliza and Spencer were thrilled. The candy was to fancy for Dallin, where's the skittles?

Liza'Lou getting her flowers.

The Frederickson Girls

Sarah, Emily, Aly, Rachel

They had different bars of food and drink stations set up all over. You could get smoothies, crepes, shrimp and chicken, there were two other set ups but those 3 were my fav's.

Lucky Matt, with, Kat, Corrine, and Juliet.

Friends from California, Jon Andersen, The The Nummela's, Vebaka Andersen (my dance teacher growing up) and Sue.

The first dance

the kiss, don't look girls

Let the dance party begin, me with my cousins.

All my Aunts and Uncles came, we have the most supportive family, Lucy, Kris, Stacie, Grandma, Thomas, Bruce, Clark.

Spencer busting a move, honestly everyone was in love with him. I got so many facebook messages about this kid.

Sarah and my cutest Dad

Steve even danced with me

Dallin's favorite part of the night he got to help decorate the car

These two shut the party down

This is the move Dallin racked in the money on, 5$ cash, a party thrown by Sarah, both Diary of a Wimpy Kid movies. I think that's it, and look how cute Spencer is trying to be like his big brother.

We had such a fun vacation beforethe wedding we got to visit other family, we went to seven peaks, we shopped, we went camping. Now that i am typing all this I am realizing I have pictures of all this looks like I have even more to blog i will never fall this far behind again.

Dallin's Birthday Party

2011-09-06T21:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Dallin, We Love You! I typed up the whole long story and lost it all. I am just going to retype it tomorrow.

Family Pictures

2011-08-29T21:26:00.000-07:00

When we went home to Utah we had Aly take our family photos. She did our last ones and did such an amazing job, I only wanted her to take our next family pics. She did not fail. they turned out fab!!! Thanks Al, love ya. To check them out go to http://www.alyloves.blogspot.com/

Happy Birthday Dallin

2011-08-04T23:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Dallin, I Loved Today. We went swimming in the morning, then had ice cream out by the basketball court. We shot around for a little before we went home. A couple of Dallin's friends came over. Steve came home for lunch, Dallin got to open 2 presents. A Lego game, and a fishing pole. The boys played the game for a while and then were going to come fishing but had to go. So it was just he Codner kids. We always have a million kids with us and today it was just mine. I loved it. I kind of sat back and just watched them plat in the backyard with my camera. Honestly, I love our backyard.

Handsomest 10 year old I have ever laid eyes on. I love this kid.

Spencer chasing the duck.

Eliza told him to stop and got him to start feeding them. Then he chased them.

Dallin taught Eliza how to fish.

There's is that best big brother I always talk about. Dallin is always telling me he can't wait for Spencer to grow up so they can really wrestle.

My deck, I just found a chandelier I love.

Tomorrow night is Dallin's friend party. He is having a water fight, movie on the lawn and a backyard camp out. Eight boys, tomorrow night, can't wait. Right before we went out to eat tonight for his birthday he started saying he didn't feel well, hopefully we don't have to cancel a party.

Bearazonia

2011-08-04T22:52:00.000-07:00

It's been almost 2 weeks since my knee surgery, and I'm not going to lie.... It was a little tough. Times like this and every Sunday night, oh yea and holidays, I wish we lived by family. I didn't have to much help so there wasn't much recovery time. Turns out my right incision split, and got infected. I went in on Friday to get it all resealed. On Tuesday I took the kids to Bearazonia, with friends. It was a fun day.

Obviously you drive in your cars, through a wilderness park. They have wolves, buffalo, big horn sheep, ect... and bears.

Liza and Tabby

It was great having Spencer around he was carrying around his baked Cheetos. All the animals could smell them and came right to the fence.

He was chasing this poor chicken all around, u weren't supposed to go off the trail, but since I couldn't keep up with him, he torched the poor animals at the petting zoo.

Spencer saying hi, and bye to the goat.

Best big brother ever!!! Dallin road with his buddies through the park. Once we caught up with him at the walking park ,he was such a big help with Spencer.

My girlfriend Gretchen got to be the audience help. She was a mouse while this huge owl snuck up on her.

Dallin and Eliza getting a close up.

I was counting 1, 2, and. When I said and the bear covered the kids eyes.

There's their cute faces.

Spencer being his cutest self.

Notice the girls posed so cute with the bear in their picture, The boys wanted to hook Dallin's head phones up to the bear and blow out his ears.

Spencer's in a BIG BOY bed, kids trip with Grandparents

2011-07-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

So my kids left for their grandparents on July 18th. they were gone until the 16th. The first 24 hours was an adjustment after that was smooth sailing. I spent 3 days cleaning. I cleaned out every room even the garage. The next 7 days I had all to myself, and Spencer. We went out a lot, Steve would get home from work and instead of being wiped out we would run errands. We went shopping one night. We went out with friends, went to a concert. I tell you we were living large. The morning they left, Steve pulled out Eliza's other tooth. Now she has a big gap in the front. Dallin got his spacers put on the day before they left. Phase one of braces, I guess there is 3, keep working Steve.

To bad the kids missed this, one night at dinner we walked out to eat a saw this rainbow. It ends right in front of us, we put dinner away and went looking for the pot of gold. Never found.

We switched Spencer into his big boy bed, since he started climbing out not to long ago. Here he is at bedtime.

Big surprise he wasn't in his bed when we went in to check on him.

There he is, Dallin's bed. He climbed into Dallin's bed every night he was gone.

We went to the Chris Izaak concert and had the most fun. My girlfriend Gretchen and I danced the night away.

The kids came home on Sat. afternoon, I was so happy to have them back. I realized how much I missed them :). Eliza has promised to never leave me again. The week after they got home we spent every day at the pool, and just hanging out. On the 22nd i got knee surgery. They took out the rest of my meniscus. I guess I shredded it and split it in two. On my way to recovery. My kids have taken excellent care of me.

4th of July

2011-07-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July

We got home from Cal, on July the 3rd. So there was no time to plan anything major. We bbq with the neighbors down a few houses they have boys my kids ages, and a few other families came over. The kids got to decorate their bikes for a parade later that night.

Plenty of good food.

There was a silly string war, they shot bows and arrows, fished and fireworks. That's right fireworks, even though they are illegal.

The bike parade.

San Diego and Southern Cal

2011-07-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Every time I go here I remember why I LOVE CALI.

The trip there was an experience. The GPS took us on every back road. Then about 10 min. from Uncle Clark and Kathleen's home, I hit something huge in the freeway. It flew out of the back of some one's truck and landed right in front of my car. Popped out my front fender and light. I was, "really mad." The first 3 days we spent in Carlsbad, San Diego. We stayed with My Aunt and Uncle Wardle. We spent a lot of time with Uncle Erik. We had such a fun time. The first day we went to the beach, I forgot my camera. The next day we went to Lego land and The Sea Life Aquarium.

Sea Life Aquarium, they got to hold star fish,

build a sand castle out of lego's,

check out sharks and sting rays,

and touch sea enemies.

Steve wasn't around so I hooked up with Indie. He keeps calling but I had to break it to him that I am happily married it was just a Lego land hook up.

They road roller coasters, and road every ride.

They flew chopper's,

and drove cars.

This was kind of fun. There was no track for the kids to follow they got to drive actual cars. So yes, they think they can drive.

There was a water park area. I wish I had pictures of the pirate boat ride, but Eliza was lost and I was more worried about finding her. She got back on the ride and Dallin forgot to tell me. Even though he sat and watched me run all over like a crazy lady looking for her.

MINI LAND

Mini land was amazing. They just opened Star Wars Land about a month ago. Just in time for us.

NEW ORLEANS

NEW YORK

WASHINGTON DC

SAN FRANSISCO

We were so lucky Uncle Erik got to come with us. It was fun to spend time with him.

More roller coasters

This was there favorite game. Eliza's job was to run around and gather ammo, load the gun. Dallin's job was to shot people.

Dallin on the boat ride at lego land.

Hermosa Beach, after 3 days in San Diego, we headed to Aunt Lucy's in Rolling Hills Estates, for four days.

We spent every day at the beach or swimming.

We went to Venice, to Muscle Beach.

He was standing there for a while flexed, finally I realized he wanted me to take his picture.

I told Steve if I die, he should go to Venice and find this lovely lady to marry. At least we know she cares about her body.

Aunt Lucy, my partner in crime. We had so much fun together. SO MUCH!

Future Body Builders

Yes we went out on the town and had a blast. We went to a movie documentary private showing, we went to some parties, and some clubs. It was fun but I was happy to come home. The simple life is a good life.

Dallin has Pneumonia

2011-06-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

Poor guy has Pneumonia, isn't it summer? At least now we know what it is, and my little guy can come out of quarantine. We got him all the right meds and he should be his Normal Happy Self in Just a Couple Days, YEAH!!!!! We can have our summer back and California, here we come.

Just stuff

2011-06-24T01:29:00.000-07:00

A few people have asked me if any of the fires are by us. Well one small one was right in our backyard. The helicopter was dipping into the lakes right outside our back door. Spencer was in heaven. Below is such a cute picture of Dallin and Madyson walking Spencer home. Spencer loves Madyson

Eliza with friends at her school play. She was a sailor and crab.

The weekend after school got out we went with the Graham's to Scottsdale to see Les Miserable. It was the BEST.

The Graham's, we always have the best time with them.

I have been playing a lot of softball lately, about 3 games a week. I got this pretty new injury sliding into third base. I guess I'm still a little competitive. You should see the new bruise on my knee from a collision on second. Truthfully, I'm having the best time, and at least it's not my face this time.

I went to my girlfriends baby shower, she is finally having a baby boy. It only took her 5 tries. I made the cupcakes for her party.

So the first week of summer I let the kids have no schedule an I went CRAZY!!!!!!!!! Really I came pretty close. We now have a pretty good routine going. The wake up, get dressed. Come down for breakfast. They then do 3 pages of school work, reading, then clean rooms, make bed, and do a job for me. Then the rest of the day is theirs. We have been going to the pool a lot. We are supposed to be in California right now but poor Dallin caught some sort of virus and has had a temp for the last 3 days. Today it went above 104, tomorrow morning I am taking him to the doctors. Dallin is also in the process of getting braces, and spacer's. Eliza had to get a tooth pulled today. Steve has lost around 30 lbs now and is looking so hot. He's starting to get muscles and does P90X with Spencer and the kids every morning. He also finally went in to get his shoulder checked out and has a torn rotator's cuff. Poor guy but he wants to finish out his softball season before he does anything about it. I also finally went in for my knee and found out I have 3 tears in my meniscus and some cartilage floating around in there. But I already kind of figured that. So it looks like our cleared of schedule is starting to fill up. Hopefully we get to leave for Cali on Monday. I"m praying no one else gets this nasty virus.

REDNECK FUN

2011-06-24T00:55:00.000-07:00

As great and fun the baptism was, it was stressful pulling it all off. I made the invitations, the programs, some of the food, all the main stuff I had catered. I did the flowers, and decorations. Plus I had 12 guest to feed for the weekend. If it wasn't for my Mom and Rachel and all there help with making food every meal and cleaning up, I would have totally lost it. Thanks Rach and mom for ALL your help that weekend. So after the party we needed a stress relief. We went and blew stuff up. Steve really wanted to take Matt out to shoot, so we headed out to a shooting range. Matt was having a great time out there, I'm pretty sure he shot more than anyone. Steve helping Dallin, it's the first time he has shot this gun.

He's got the hang of it now.

Spencer was there with his gun in hand.

On to bigger and better.

Alright I'm going to brag a little. Anyone who knows my Mom knows she is a little competitive which makes her great at everything. She hit 4 of the targets, we now call her 007, oh wait.... She's been making us call her that for years.

I take after my Mother, I hit a couple of targets and this was my first time shooting the rifle. I nailed one of the farthest targets on my 3rd shot.

Steve's a show off,he hit the farthest target on his first shot. Kind of sexy, well i think so.

I wish I had some of the pictures from Rachel's camera. She was there too, and I might add she looked awful hot with a gun in hand. Send me some pics Rach.

Finally Eliza's Baptism

2011-06-23T23:58:00.003-07:00

I feel so blessed, and someday Eliza will realize how lucky she is to have so many people who love and support her. I know it was a sacrafice for people to get here for her baptism, and it meant so much to me, and our family to have you all here. I defiantly felt the love, so thank you. Picture above, my Little Liza Lou. I am so blessed to be her mother, she is such a good girl. Below, Eliza and her main man.

I love this picture of us, it makes me smile.

The Codner Clan.

These two girls are the very best of friends, so are there mothers. Kind of fun how that worked out. It also worked out they they were the only 2 scheduled to be baptized on the morning of June the 4th. We made it very personal for them. It was really a great service and I'm so happy we were able to share the experience with the Graham family, I love them!

All the family who came for the baptism, Eliza is one blessed girl.

My Mom, sister Rachel and myself. I just want to make it clear I am the younger sister. Ha, Rach now everyone will know.

Eliza with her BFF's. Emme was so sweet to come all the way from UT to support Eliza. We love you Emme.

Those crazy boys. Dallin kind of had a rough time, with all the attention Eliza was getting. Also she got so many presents and he never gets a thing, POOR KID. I did try to do some special things for him, but they were overlooked with green eyes.

Rach and her favorite niece.

We love these two boys, Taige got to stay with us and come to the after party.

Thank goodness Debbie was here to decorate the cupcakes. I was running out of time, and instead of staying up till 5 in the morning trying to get everything done for the baptism and party. I was able to go to bed at a reasonable 3 in the morning.

Behind the cupcakes are the bouquets we used at the baptism. Liza and Tabby had matching ones.

Eliza at her party, she invited a couple of her friends from school, and we invited some close family friends.

Aunt Mel and Uncle Sam, who came in from UT. Poor Aunt Stacy came too, but got terribly sick and couldn't make it. I was so sad for her and she was very missed.

SISTER'S, can you tell?

I love this picture of Gretchen and Madison.

and Sabrina

There was a intense backyard baseball game going on. I was busy hosting, otherwise I would have been on second for sure.

My Mom went down and got in on the action.

Uncle Jer, Aunt Amy and Zack came all the way from Texas. I know it was a big sacrifice and again I feel so blessed to have had them here. It really meant a lot to our family. Also as you can see, Ame's was such a huge help. Couldn't have done it with out her, loved having her around. I even trusted her to make the cupcakes and she did them perfectly. She filled the cups perfectly and didn't leave any nuts and bolts in them. She really has come a long way :)), love ya Ame's

It was a fun party, with GREAT FOOD (that always makes the party), great family, great friends, it was a perfect day. I forgot to tell you about some of the baptism. We woke up late, but thank goodness I stayed up till 3 in the morning getting everything done. Eliza's witness were her two Uncles, Jerame and Sam. My Mom gave the talk at the Baptism and made it so special for Eliza and Tabatha. She told them how great it was to have the Holy Ghost and what he would help them with through out their lives. Especially, let them know that they have a Father in Heaven and that Jesus Christ came to this earth for them to be forgiven of sin. She also shared 2 stories when the Holy Ghost spoke to her. One of the stories was when she saw a picture in her mind of hitting a little girl on a bike, and swerving the car to the left to miss hitting her. Within seconds of that running through her mind a little girl on a bike came jetting out from behind a car and right in front of my mom's car. She already knew what to do. She swerved to the left and just missed her. Eliza still talks about that story. My last but one of my favorite events of the weekend was when Eliza's friend Sophie got up in sacrament meeting to bear her testimony, and just said the cutest things. She is 8 and stood up in front of 100+ people and just owned it. She said, "I am just so proud of my 2 friends Eliza and Tabatha. I just love those girls. Where are they? (she's looking all around) Oh, there they are! I'm so proud of those two girls, for making the choice to get baptized, They are just my great friends and I am so proud of them." Honestly, she was the star of the month at church. She is so full of joy, and such a fun, caring girl. It made my Sunday. There was a lot of other great moments, but those were my favs.

Eliza's Birthday

2011-06-21T14:29:00.001-07:00

JUNE 1st

Eliza had a big surprise for her birthday. Her Grandma, Uncle Matt, and Emme came into town and picked her up from school. She was so excited to see them all. That night, we had baseball games. Then we had a family birthday party, she got a new bike. Turns out Emme has the same one. Her birthday was on Wednesday, company started to flow in after that. Ame, and Jer got in Thursday morning, Rachel that afternoon. Debbie, Stacy, Mel and Sam got in late Thursday night. Let the party begin.

Eliza's Tea Party

2011-06-16T17:52:00.002-07:00

I really hate blogging out of order, but I wanted to put up Eliza's birthday party. It was so much fun decorating for this party. I spent LOTS of time making it cute and girly. I think time well spent! My deck was transformed into an angelic, delightful venue, only fit for my Eliza'Lou. I had so much fun setting this up for her and her friends, to enjoy an afternoon together being, "Little Ladies."

Eliza helped with the place cards. She wrote all her friends names out, picked out where they were going to sit. She put so much thought into it. Example; Tabatha, her BFF sat to the left of her, she had to give her a pink plate, with the gloves that had pink trimmed lace. Kiarra, had to have a blue plate because she is a little bit more of a tom boy. She did this for every friend. I think she is so sweet and thoughtful.

I wish I would have uncovered all the food before I took the pictures, but I didn't, so oh well.

I decided to try and get fancy with my tips (frosting tips). I played around with them for a little, until I taught myself how to make flowers and a couple of other styles.

I had to set up 3 tables, Eliza invited 9 friends. So in order to seat everyone comfortably and with company I added an extra table. I wish I had one large one to out them all at but I didn't. I hope no one felt left out.

First, we made hats. Then we went over Emily Post table manners. I took my opportunity to go over etiquette. I HATE bad table manners. Eliza read them to her friends.

After, etiquette. We went out to the backyard, went on a walk around the lake and fed the ducks.

When we got back we were still waiting for 2 friends to come, so we opened presents and then started to eat. They showed up just as everyone was sitting down. I made everyone fancy glove, but I made Eliza's to match her tea party dress.

I spent all day yesterday making the food for the party. I made mini chicken croissant sandwiches. Mini corndogs, and chicken nuggets. I cookie cut cheese, into the shapes of stars and flowers, for crackers. I mixed strawberries and raspberries together, put them into individual cups and sprinkled powder sugar on them. I also put cherry tomatoes into little cups. I made cupcakes, and these adorable baby cakes that I died Eliza's favorite color blue and filled them with vanilla frosting. At the end of the party I had a candy bar, with rock candy, a fruit bouquet made of suckers, and licorice, for them to fill up their bags. No sugar at all! Right?

All the girls in their hats and gloves. It was the perfect day, except for one thing. The WIND. I am so tired of it. That's my only complaint so who am I kidding such a fun party for Eliza and great friends.

My Testimony

2011-06-07T13:40:00.001-07:00

On the car ride home from church this Sunday, we were talking about all the testimony's that were offered in sacrament meeting. I mentioned that I don't like to stand up and give mine, because, I don't like to cry about my feelings. My Mom said I should. So, for all of you who read my blog, which is mainly my family and friends (those that matter to me) here it is.
Lately I have been trying to pay attention to feelings, like at Eliza's baptism. I could think, of no place, I would want to be, than in the young women's room at my daughter's baptism. It was very peaceful, and just this calm sense of joy, through out her whole program. One testimony, that was offered, struck a cord with me. Bishop Gilliland was talking about over coming sadness after he lost a child. While, I don't suffer from the sadness of loosing a child, there are things, that I still carry from my past, that make me sad. I still have a hard time, letting go, of shame, and guilt. Which ultimately lead pain and sadness. The bishop, talked about the Holy Ghost, as the comforter. One day he and his family knelt in prayer asking for some relief from all there, pain and sadness. It clicked with me, that maybe??? that's the one thing I haven't tried. It's so simple I've heard it all my life, yet for some reason I was still reaching out to family, friends for guidance. Thinking to my self, "But, I'm doing so much better. I'm fighting everyday to be the person I want to be." I'm saying prayers, reading Scriptures, going to church, all the things I'm supposed to. I just haven't knocked on that door yet. I was grateful to be in the room, to hear that testimony. It's just what I needed to hear. Answer to my prayers. I've been telling my kids the last few days the definition, (in my words) to testimony; "what you know to be true." This is what I do know. I know that I have a Heavenly Father and Savior, who love me. I know that they answer prayers, even my personal prayers. That miracles, "Great Miracles," happen on in my life, my families lives, and all over the world. I know that when I'm sitting in church, I have the feeling that this is were I should be. I know that Joseph Smith, a 14 year old boy went into the woods to pray. He had a specific question, and it was answered by Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, in the Sacred Grove. I know that Thomas S. Monson is our latter day prophet, here on this earth, to guide us in these last days. I am so blessed to have a Father and Mother who live the gospel to the fullest every day. They have always loved me unconditionally and been such a constant in my life. They are a wonderful example of the gospel. I have wonderful brothers and sisters, who love me despite all my weaknesses. A husband, who honors and loves me. There is no one on this earth, who knows me better. He is still my best friend, and my first go to guy. I couldn't make it with out him. I have 3 wonderful kids, who make me want to be better person, a better Mom, and a better friend. They are the light and joy in my life.
I'm grateful, (not really I don't know if I'm there yet). I'm defiantly on a journey in this life and I'm just so grateful I don't have to do it alone.
I say these things, in Jesus name, Amen. And while you all couldn't see me, I'll let you in on a little secret I did cry a few times. Love you all.

Cutest Kid EVER

2011-05-31T22:38:00.000-07:00

I honestly think it is going to be the greatest day of his life when he gets to play T-ball.

Memorial Day weekend

2011-05-31T13:36:00.000-07:00

I was finishing up my work-out on Thursday right before I had to go and pick up the kids. I heard this crashing on the back fence. I jumped up and was at the screen door, the same time Leah (our ex black lab) came crashing into our screen. I let her come in and run around with Lucy. My kids were not home so I decided instead of returning Leah right away I would surprise the kids and let them all play at the park with Leah. So I only kidnapped her for a little bit, then we took her home. Everyone was SO HAPPY to see her. On Friday we spent the entire day at the pool, swimming in the sun and having the best time. On Saturday we worked, that night we went over to the Graham's. Aaron and I had a joint birthday party. Gretchen is the best, my birthday would have SUCKED if it hadn't been for her. I had so much fun that night, thanks GG. Aaron pulled out his big new gun for everyone to see. All the girls wanted to get a picture with it, but none of us could keep a tough face long enough with out laughing.

Sunday morning we went to church, then hopped in the car and head out to meet friends camping. It was so windy and cold on Sunday but we stuck it out. Monday we rode quads and rhinos all day. Monday was my actual birthday and I am not going to pretend like it was a great one. Steve was camping with us but had to leave in the morning because he had to work. He didn't even wish me a happy birthday until mid afternoon, my kids didn't even wish me happy birthday, until i told them it was my birthday, around 3. Even then it was a, "oh, it's your birthday, happy birthday. Gretchen remembered half way through the day, thank goodness because I was starting to feel very unloved. The only thing that kept me happy was my family (the Fred's) and some close friend's from UT and MEM, texts me the sweetest birthday wishes. Also Spencer made me smile all day. He was made for this. He loved everything about camping. Here he is wearing motorcross gear, that he never took off.

This is about 1/4 of the kids that were camping. I think there was about 9 families up there, it was so much fun.

Eliza and Tabby waiting to go on a ride.

Spencer really wants to go too.

He spent a lot of time sitting on quads and dirt bike pretending to ride.

Spencer's first 4 wheeler ride. He didn't stay back there for long, Scott moved it to the front almost immediately.

Motorcross gear and an arrow, life couldn't not be an better.

Garrett and Dallin riding around. I took Dallin out and taught him how to drive one. He really loved the dirt bike. He and Garrett spent most of their time shooting guns and carving things.

We got home from camping around 3:30, I spent about 2 hours hosing everything down, I have the biggest pile of laundry and my car is so gross. When Steve got home, he went right back out because if we were going to celebrate my birthday he needed a cake and stuff. Eliza tried her best to make it a magical birthday party for and it was so thanks Eliza, I love my card and my pin. Thanks Steve for taking her.

Weekend maddnes continues

2011-05-23T13:40:00.001-07:00

Tron Dance

Dallin and Eliza each had 3 dances and the finale. They both were in the glow stick dance. Dallin was in, Atomic Dog and Tron. Eliza was in, Some Day my Prince will Come, and Never had a Friend Like Me. Atomic Dog

This is how we kept Spencer entertained between dances. He would climb in the lockers and shut himself in.

Aladdin, dance. Eliza in her Genie costume

Some Day my Prince will Come, Dance. Hopefully Eliza waits for a long time.

After the recital, it was over for a while. We went home and took naps. I NEVER nap, but I did that day. That night I had 3 softball games. So between the 4 of us we had 10 games this week. Crazy, but fun. I was surprised when the kids wanted to stay at the ball field for my last 2 games. Steve took them home anyways and got the to bed. I hit my first home run, this weekend. A 3 run, home run. Steve got up and hit a home run right after me. Codner back to backs. It's so much fun playing with Steve again.

I forgot to add Steve and Eliza went shooting, I stayed home and took a nap with Spencer. Maybe I'm

getting old!?!?!

Weekend MADNESS

2011-05-23T13:21:00.000-07:00

Friday was the jog-a-thon, I was at the school from, 8:30-11:45, helping out with that. Then at 11:30, we went up to the school for the volunteer luncheon. It's the school's way of saying thanks to the parents for all there help through out the school year. Eliza and a couple of friends are giving Tabitha birthday spankings.

Dallin with all his buddies.

Spencer rarely leaves the house without his mitt and ball.

He started running with the kids, Jack picked him out of the pile of kids and ran with him. Spencer is the most popular 1 1/2 year old I know. I guess he was thirsty after all that running.

I have been trying to get Eliza invites out for her baptism, I finished those up on Thursday night. I can't believe she's already getting ready for her baptism. Thank goodness she is such a good girl and doesn't need a lot of parenting.

After the crazy morning we had, dance rehearsal from, 4-7. But we also had, A baseball game for Eliza at 5, and a game for Dallin at 7. Steve also had a double header at 6 and 7. Everyone made it to games. Steve got home at 8:30 and met me at the ball park to cheer Dallin on, they won. After the game they headed up to the Father's and Son's camp out. Steve talked Dallin into sleeping in the back of the car. They were home by 9:45 in the morning and met me over at the ballpark to cheer Eliza on at her game.

I wish I had better pics of Dallin at his game, but the ump wouldn't let me use my flash. Dallin in the back of the car at the camp out. Honestly, he has the best Dad to drive him up there at 10:00 at night.

Eliza's game Saturday morning, I'm out on the field, telling them where to move when the ball is hit.

Eliza got to stay for the whole game, but as soon as it was over I pulled her off the field and ran to the car. We had to get her to her dance recital with in 30 minutes. That meant costume, hair and make-up. We just made it

MAGIC KINGDOM

2011-05-23T12:18:00.000-07:00

On our way over to the most magical place on earth!!! Everyone was very excited to finally get there. When you first walk in to the right you can go and meet, Mickey and Minnie. Spencer is obsessed those two mice. Spencer seeing Mickey and Minnie Mouse for the first time.

Rachel bought everyone a hat. My kids are so lucky to have her.

We went home half way through the day, took a little break and then went back around 7:30. We took the ferry again.

Everyone split up and went on rides I took Spencer to the carousal, of course he loved it.

All of us on, "It's a Small World."

You would have had to been on our boat to understand this picture below.

The last ride of the night, The haunted house. It was Eliza's pick. Shes a nut, she loves spooky things. I am acting like a statue, at least I wasn't kissing this one. I think it might be an obsession of mine. I might have to put together a book of all my statue pictures.

Leaving the park at midnight. We stayed for the firework show, and shut the park down.

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS, May 3rd

2011-05-23T11:51:00.000-07:00

Spencer LOVES the parades, so do Dallin and Eliza. They are up in the front, so I can't get pictures of them.

I wish I would have taken a few more pictures at Hollywood Studios. Truthfully it was SOOO HOT on this day, everyone was in a crabby mode. However we did get to ride Tower of Terror a bunch of time, we also went on Rock-n-roller coaster, a few times. We went and saw the Indian Jones show, and a couple of other shows. Hopefully Rach has some cuter pictures.

ANIMAL KINGDOM

2011-05-18T00:35:00.000-07:00

We all loved Animal Kingdom, such a cute park. I loved all the different countries. The Kilimanjaro Safari was a lot of fun. We got to see hippos, giraffe's, crocodile's, water buffalo, elephant's and a whole lot more.

The elephant was our favorite. The trucks had to stop because down the road the gazelle were crossing the road. Our truck was lucky enough to stop right in front of the elephant water whole. The Mom and baby elephant just happened to be there at that time. So fun, for us to see.

Picture at the Safari check in.

Eliza (Dallin didn't want to), got to play in the African band. Wish I knew what the band was called.

Our favorite rides; Kali River Rapids. We went on that 4 times, we were dripping wet. It took all day for us to dry off. Dinosaur Land, and Dino-sue. Rach needs to learn to say no to my kids. She went off with them to play games at $4 a pop. I think she was taken for $30. But I tell you what, they think Rachel is the BEST. Expedition Everest, was another fun one, road that 3 times. We saw the Nemo musical, Everyone loved it especially Spencer. The tree of life, and the parade were some other favorites. I really need to get all the pictures off Rachel's camera. Our battery died and we didn't bring the charger, oops.

EPCOT, May 5th

2011-05-17T23:32:00.000-07:00

Epcot was one of our favorite parks. Steve's childhood dream came true, he finally got to see what was inside the giant ball. This park had something for everyone in the family. We finally figured out how to get Spencer to sleep, while at the parks. We had to go for a car ride, drive around until he feel asleep and the carefully move him into the stroller. He would sleep for about 1-2 hours, long enough to keep him from having a total melt down.

Two of my favorite pictures and for very different reasons. The first one I just like. I love all the mirrors and how they catch all the color.

I was people watching, while waiting for the kids to come off of Test Track and saw this couple. They are my favorite, simply because they were there all by themselves, and they don't walk they shuffle. I should have video taped them. It was so funny, and cute to watch them. My favorite part of the whole trip, the best thing to happen at any of the parks happened at Epcot. We are walking out, passing the lake were all the floating flowers are, and there is a huge crowd gathering. We are trying to figure out what is going on and then we see it. There is a teenage boy trying to swim across. To bad for him there are security guards on both sides and police officers walking in.

Spencer, watching the train run through the village, just outside of Germany. He could have stayed here for hours. He threw quite the fit when I had to pry his hands off the rail.

This was so cute, I want one of these as a tree house in my backyard.

If you ever go to Disney World see if you can find Pascal?

Everything amazed Spencer. He LOVES all the characters in Mickey Mouse Club House , he can say all of their names. So anytime he saw one of them, he would say their name run to it, and well you can see the joy on his face.

Day 4 we spent at Epcot. Day 5 we split up between the parks. We asked the kids what rides were their favorites and what they wanted to see on their last day. Dallin choose Buzz Light Year and Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom. Eliza choose Splash Mountain, and then wanted to head over to Hollywood Studios for Tower of Terror, and Rockin Roller Coaster. She is the BIGGEST roller coaster junkie, she LOVES, LOVES, LOVES them. After that it was off to Epcot for Test Track, and Space Mission. The kids also wanted to go to Japan. I think they were hoping I would change my mind about buying more stuffed animal, specifically the Pokemon ones, I didn't. We hung out for a little and listened to one of the Monkey's band members sing, before the laser light show. It was a great fire work show, it was a good way to end all the park fun.

Dallin watching the show. The globe floats through the water, to the center the lake. When it opens there is huge ball of fire and then more fireworks.

You can see how exhausted Eliza is, it's how we all felt.

Rachel started this really cute idea of having them jump in the front of each country land mark in Epcot. We carried on the tradition the next day.

MEXICO

CHINA

GERMANY

JAPAN

ITALY

Rachel has the other countries, I need to get the pictures from her. Thanks again for the great idea.

Daytona Beach, Florida

2011-05-17T15:24:00.001-07:00

After 6 days in Orlando, and going, going, going, 2 days at the beach was just what we needed before heading home. We got a hotel that was beach front so we could spend as much time there as possible.

Everyone was so excited to get to the water. Honestly we checked in and were in the water within 15 minutes.

Spencer ran right in. He was a little nervous of the waves at first but it didn't take long for him to get used to it.

Dallin and Eliza wasted no time.

Eliza is so sweet with Spencer. She wanted to bury him but he was going to have nothing to do with that.

RIDING THE WAVES

Seriously I LOVE this kid. There is nothing about Spencer I don't enjoy, I can't help but smile every time I look or think about him.

Liza'Lou enjoying the water.

That night we put the kids down and left them with the phone. We walked down to the boardwalk for about an hour. It was fun to get out with Steve for a little. When we got back to the hotel both Dallin and Eliza were passed out. Spencer popped right up in his port-a-crib when we walked in. We took him down to the beach for a walk that night. Just Dad, Mom and Spencer.

DAY 2, at the Beach. We got skim boards and had such a fun fun day. I had to drag Dallin off the beach, he loves skim boarding.

Eliza kind of likes it, but she really just likes to ride the waves.

I should have put up the pictures of Steve on the board, but this one is way better. Dallin and I were dying laughing. I'm not making fun of you Steve, I'm laughing with you. You know I think you can do anything, love you.

It didn't take Dallin very long to get the hang of it.

Eliza loves to go out in the water, especially with her Dad.

Yes, I am at the beach to. I handed the camera to Steve and asked him to get me in a few.

See what I mean??? This kid is the BEST,

and the CUTEST!!!

Spencer and Mom, we are going to make a sand castle.

Liza'Lou riding the waves.

The first day we didn't see a single sting ray. The second day we saw a ton. For the most part it was 2 here, 2 there. We did see a school of 6 once, but they didn't keep us out of the water. We just walked down the beach a little and tried to avoid them, but it was hard there was a lot of them. Thank goodness no one got stung, just a really really fun day with my FAMILY. Rachel flew home on Friday morning so she didn't get to come to the beach. Through out the day every single one of us commented on wishing Rachel was there with us. Eliza commented a lot more than once.

We flew out at 7pm, by the time we caught our lay over everyone was so exhausted. We could hardly get them off the plane when we landed. We got home at 2am our time. 5am Florida time. The next morning we were all up by 6:15 for dance, exhausted and back to the real world. I am finally feeling like we really have over done it this time with sports and activities. I am now coaching which has added to the chaos. I was talking to Steve the other night and said, "I just can't do it." Which is not something I say very often. I have signed us up for nothing this summer, we are traveling quite a bit. So that will be enough we are just going to relax and enjoy. I hope I can do it, I will probably be board by week 2. I also decided we are going to have to cut a activity if I want to continue to coach, which I do. I really enjoy it and I know my kids like having me involved. Steve and I just played in our first softball games this weekend. We are on a team together and we each play on separate teams. He plays on a all guys team and I got picked up bu another co-ed team. So between all of us we had 8 games this last week, busy but so fun.

Pirates Cove, Lake Mead

2011-04-23T22:51:00.004-07:00

William's, it was so much fun. Loved spending time with all of you. It's just not enough. Love you all and miss you. See you all soon, such a great family!!! It's a lot of pictures hang in there, they are well worth it. I have never seen such an amazing home. James is the designer behind it all. Craig is the $$$, about 28 million. Anyone can stay here as long as you have $10,000, to spend on one night. The house, (homes, there's about 5 on the property) has 20 something bedrooms, 25 bathrooms, who knows what else pictures don't do it justice.

Spencer is ready to swim. That's pretty much all we did the whole time. There is 3 pools, 2 hot tubs, and 2 water slides. One of the slides is a shorter one, it empties into the pool at the grotto. The other water slide starts at the top and takes you through the ship wrecked pirate ship. It's amazing. Brittany with Liv, Brittany has the 2 cutest girls. It was fun to watch Spencer and Ella play together.

Steve helping Spencer get ice cream. They had a self serve ice cream machine and Slurpee machine next to the pool. This was the kids favorite part.

Spencer waiting for another bite of ice cream, so patient. HAHAHA!!!!

Aly and Justin with their new little one. Isla, is so sweet and cute. can't get enough of her.

Dallin in the hot tub over looking one of the gazebo's, right behind Dallin is a teeter-taughter. It sits on the ledge, it's crazy looking and kind of scary.

The Williamson's came up, it was fun to catch up with them.

Caught them in this photo, just hanging out enjoying the view.

Then I told them to pose for me.

Steve and Dallin went exploring. I had to join in.

Spencer came along.

A over look from the top. This is the view off to the left.

View of the middle.

View middle, right.

This is the second pool. It is an old ship wrecked pirate ship. The floor moves when you walk on it so it really feels like you are on the ocean. The water slide runs through it and empties into the pool, where you can cliff jump from anywhere. There is also a huge rope swing which is so much fun, of course. Kate jumping from the boat and the crows nest.

Dallin on the rope swing.

I paid Dallin $20 to to jump. It worked, he jumped again after this jump. It took him a little and a lot of encouragement. Thanks, Cameron.

And he jumped, it was a good 40ft.!!!!

Eliza in in the action.

One of the 10 bars, on the property. Everywhere you turn you see something unbelievable like this.
The bar,

The dining are:

When you go through those doors on the left, (picture above) you walk in on this pirate. He is motion activated. He starts to talk to the dog holding the keys when you walk in. You continue to walk up the stairs to more pirates and gold, of course.

Emme, Eliza and Dallin, having the time of there life.

The 3 of them are making a train, and going down the water slide.

This is the grotto, the bottom pool. You can swim through those arch ways into a bar. There is couches and tables back in there. There is also hamocks hanging from the ceiling, over the water, Spencer loved them.

If you swim into the waterfall, just right to the left of it is a cave. You canswim into it, in the cave is an aquarium, so it's kind of like you are swimming with fish.

This is the big main water fall that starts at the top and runs all the way through the property.

Everywhere you look the is pirates, skeletons, they where even in the trees.

This was so much fun, thanks for thinking of us. Love you guys. See you soon. To see some of his other buildings, check out his blog. http://aeurbia.blogspot.com, James Williams, enginer of Pirate's Cove. Aly Williams, photo's, http://alyloves.blogspot.com/search?q=pirates+cove&updated-max=2007-10-28T22%3A22%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=20 I am hoping Brittany will also post some of her pictures from this last trip, she is also a very talented photographer. http://www.brittanyandersenphotography.com/

Opening day

2011-04-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

We got home from St. George and jumped right into the real world. Dance, both D and E. Scouts, both D and E. Baseball both D and E, also Steve is on a team and so am I. Opening ceremonies was on the 16th. Looks like Eliza has a good friend on the team. She is sitting by Zeke in both the top and bottom picture. He is seriously a cute, cute kid. "Puppy Love???"

Dallin, with his best buddy Blake. They have been on the same team for 3 years now.

Eliza at her first game, she is a serious hitter. I love watching her.

That night we invited about 20something people over to watch Narnia, "Voyage of the Dawn Treader." It was a fun night. Thanks everyone for coming over.

I think they need another baby. Or your welcome to Spencer anytime you want him, he obviously loves you!!!!

Saint George Trip

2011-04-13T12:32:00.000-07:00

Movie night, I had to stop watching and get this picture. I have no idea why Spencer is so upset, but it's cute. The weekend before we left was conference weekend. It was a great Sunday, loved all the talks. Baseball might put me over the top, it's busy. On Wednesday night I taught the young women how to make jewelry, on Thursday I packed us all up. Friday morning we took off for St. George. We tried to leave early enough before the snow storm hit, but it didn't happen. Flagstaff got 12 inches while we were gone.

I was so excited to drive through Colorado City. I was determined to get a picture of the polygamists. This is one of the home. Seriously, they should put some of those kids to work. The homes are run down, the main streets are paved, but the side roads all dirt. I just thought this one, below, was great. The master suites each have a balcony. Oh yeah, I also got pulled over, AGAIN. Still no ticket.

LOOK at ALL that milk in the trunk and there is still some in the carts.

After the stalking we finished the trip and made it to St. George. On the way up to the condo we had to stop off at this house for pictures. I will have to try and find the old ones of me in front of this house.

I have this same picture, running alongside the road runner.

We went swimming when we got there. It was not the greatest weather, thank goodness for the indoor pool. Spencer ready to swim. Probably, should wipe off that face.

Eliza and Emmy, she road up with my family so she could spend a few extra days with Dallin and Eliza.

Spencer feel asleep before dinner the kid was exhausted. Thomas has a girlfriend who came down on Friday night. It was so great to finally meet her. I approve to which I'm sure they were both happy to hear. Kidding, I loved her.

Saturday, we worked out, Plyometrics. Matthew and my mom did it with me, because she is awesome. We were all sore the next couple of days. Oh well good work out. Then we got ready, and went shopping. The boys went golfing. On Sunday we went to church, walked around the temple, and then went to the Spin Park. Or as Dallin calls it the Future Park. First we played baseball.

Sorry first we played, throw rocks into the river. I don't know if other families play this game but we do. Find a object somewhere across the river and the first one to hit it wins. I was the first one to hit the bolder with a rock, first round. Thomas won the second round.

This park was the BEST!!!!!

Matthew was flinging the kids so high, they loved it. It's a teeter-taughter suspended in the air.

I think this is what made the kids come home with an upset stomach. Poor Dallin did a face plant when he stood up off this thing.

Uncle Tom trying to help Eliza stay on her feet.

It was my idea to do this. I really wanted Thomas to do it but I had to show him what to do first.

Thomas did it.

Chelsea did it.

Matthew did it.

The kids did it. I tried to get my Mom to do it but she said no.

Spencer did a version of it. Tea cup spinner, he looks terrified but he was having fun.

The next day we went hiking all over the red rock, we went through slit rock canyon which is always fun.

Then we came home and swam. Later that day the rest of the William's got there. It was so fun to see them. I finally got to meet Isla, and she is adorable. She looks just like Aly when she was a baby. We went to Pirate Island and shut the place down. Then we came back to the condo and stayed up until 2:30 talking and laughing. The next day we spent the day and the pool and then head home. It was such a fun, and one of the less stressful trips we have gone on. Loved it. Thanks everyone for the fun time.

Pinewood Derby

2011-04-06T23:18:00.001-07:00

The stress of pinewood derby!!! I always stress a little for Dallin he gets so into his car. He drafts different cars and then narrows down his pictures until he thinks he has his winner. This year he came up with a new paint technique. It was cute to listen to him explain it to us. "I want to paint the first coat all black, then on top of that use different colors and blob it on. Then use a q-tip to blotch it all over, until the different colors blend together." I'm not to sure were he came up with the idea, but it looked really cool by the time he finished it. So yes this year I was nervous for Dallin, however I had stress of my own. Myself and my committee were in charge of the race, and all the awards, and everything else that goes along with it. Thank goodness my committee is great and I have a lot of people who want to do a good job, so this year was a lot of fun. Dallin is getting ready to weigh his car at check in.

The car has to weigh 5oz. or less. Dallin's car weighed 5.04oz. Steve was not there so I was left to drill out some of the wood. One of the men there wanted to help, I explained to him the the back of Dallin's car was loaded with weights in the back. Steve and Dallin drilled 3 holes through the back and slid weights into it. They were all hidden in the wood. So I explained to the guy all of this. He drilled right into the back, split the back end of Dallin's car wide open and shot the weights out the side. Dallin's little face was horrified, I'm sure mine was the same. I know he was trying to help. I tried not to make him feel bad, but of course he did. He helped me repair it. I took over then and did the best I could, I drilled little holes all over the underside of Dallin's beautiful car that he worked so hard on. I felt so bad for him and Steve. Steve finally got off work after Dallin had already raced through his den. He ended up taking first in his den. Even with it shaking down the track.

All the boys waiting for the racing to start.

Here we are still trying to repair his car.

Finally everyone is ready.

Dallin racing for first place. I'm so glad he won, after everything we went through.

Of course Spencer wants in on the action.

The boys with their car. Getting it ready for the Grand Champion Race. Dallin ended up taking 3rd over all, shaking all the way down the track. The winning car was a little questionable. We want to know what it was made out of???.

I made the treats. I turned zingers and marshmallows into little cars.

Dallin's champion car. He wanted to make it like his Uncle Matt's kind of, Matt's had 1 hole, he wanted 2.

Dallin getting his trophy.

There they are, with their winning car. At the end of the night Dallin asked to ride home with just his Dad. He wanted to talk about his car, he was a little disappointed with it, and wanted to know why it was shaky and can't decide if he wants to go to Districts this year.

I made these cupcakes for the Flat Tire winner. This is the boy that comes in very last. We sashed him this year with a real flat tire and gave him his plate of cupcakes.

So glad it is over. these past 2 pack meetings have been really big ones. For the next few months they are pretty low key and then the summer. So we will have a couple months of a break. Steve just got a new church calling. I have to wait until Sunday to announce it on my blog. It's a busy one and has me wondering if I will ever see my husband. We are getting ready to go to Saint George for the next 5 days. We are going to meet, my Mom, Dad, Matt, Tom and Chelsey their. Then on Monday the William's are coming. Can't wait to see them. I am going to meet Isla for the first time and am getting excited to see her. Just 1 more day, I should go pack.

Cupcake Class and Fort

2011-04-06T22:37:00.000-07:00

Once spring break and all the party planning was over, I had a lot of catch up to do. My house was a disaster and the laundry was ridiculous. I spent the week catching up. Also it was March madness, I did my best to move on after the BYU lose. Not going to lie it was a really tough lose around here. It still stings a little. Eliza made these cute cupcakes at cupcake class which turned out so cute.

Fort's have been very popular around this house lately, along with the shark tent. Our kids have been sleeping in them for about a week and a half. One night they made Eliza's entire room into a fort, and her room is huge. It was really cool looking except I had to crawl on my tummy to tuck them in or put clothes away. One day they made this fort to watch a movie and eat dinner in.

Spencer is so cute. He noticed I had the camera on him. I was waiting for him to look at me before I snapped the picture.

Then he gave me this look, because he didn't want me to take his picture. He was busy watching the movie and I was bothering him. Obviously!!!

Dallin is the official popcorn maker in this family. It's really cute to listen to him tell whoever comes over, about his very important job. He tells them, (usually his friends or Eliza's) he is the best popcorn maker in our family, so if you want some I am going to have to make it, because I am the best.

Baseball has now started, it is the busiest sport. We are at the ball field Pretty much every day, except, Wednesday and Sunday. I am helping coach Eliza's team which should be really fun for the both of us. She is the only girl on her team, so I'm sure she likes to have me around. Although I think she kind of likes all the attention. Poor thing has a busy schedule on Tuesday's She is up at 6am and to dance by 7, then in school from 8:30- 3:30. Home by 3:45, homework and snack. 5pm tap dance. The rush to baseball till 7. finally home, dinner, shower and bed, which she is more than ready to crawl into. At least it's only 1 day a week and dance will be over half way through May. I'm not going to lie it's a little much but she enjoys it.

End of Spring Break

2011-04-06T22:14:00.000-07:00

To finish off spring break we spent Thursday in Sedona, it was a total blast. I am waiting on pictures, my camera died the very first picture I took. as soon as I get a copy of Gretchen's, or the Moore's I will post the. On Friday I spent the day getting decorations, and making this birthday cake, for my very best girlfriend Gretchen. We pulled of a surprise birthday party for her. She was dead set on going away for the weekend which made Aaron's job, getting her there very tricky. But we did she had no idea. It was a really fun Saturday night. The cake took a while to make, but I would do it again for her.

It's a bad angle it looks really off centered in this picture, it kind of was but I did fix it.

The party venue, we had the back room at Cuvee's all to ourselves.

Me with Gretchen, the birthday girl and Michelle.

Make a wish!!!

GO COUGARS

2011-03-24T17:21:00.000-07:00

The boys came over for a BYU, Jimmer party. Hope they've been paying their tithing.

Sycamore Canyon

2011-03-15T22:41:00.001-07:00

Today we hiked into Sycamore Canyon. It was about 6 miles, we crossed 2 rivers, thank goodness for the 2 older boys, they were such a huge help getting all the little kids across. So today we hiked, cliff jumped, swam, played in the mud, Spencer threw a lot of rocks into the water, they shot bows, rode on polarises, played baseball, roasted hot dogs, then marshmallows. After the smores we called it a day. We got home around 9:15. Threw the kids, who of course were asleep by the time we got home, into the shower. Then got them into bed, but not without a meltdown from each of them. Spencer was ticked off about, well everything. Eliza just needed someone to get up to her room and tuck her in, RIGHT AWAY. And Dallin, well he didn't feel well at all, and was positive something was very wrong. Over all a great fun day.

Spencer loves being outside, every time I turn around he is off to explore something new. He was running through the mud trying to keep up with the older kids. He spent most of his time gathering up rocks, and sticks to throw into the river.

Hallie always takes such good care of Spencer she was blowing bubbles for him back at the camp. When Eva tried to take them away from him, she let her know they were not hers and to leave Spencer alone.

Eliza and Sophie, they make me laugh. They played make believe the whole hike.

Target practice with their bows and arrows. Of course this was another highlight of the day for Dallin.

Spencer loved to pretend he was driving the Polaris. Couldn't keep him out of there.

Obviously it is time to go home and to bed.

Grand Falls

2011-03-14T19:50:00.000-07:00

We had a super fun, muddy day. There was about 7 other families there, we all hiked into together.

First we played in the black sand. The older boys started jumping off the cliffs into it. Then the little boys started jumping, then the girls.

Spencer tasted the sand for us, he kept putting it in his mouth so he must of loved it. So gross, I did my best to keep it out.

I had to go up there and convince Eliza to jump but she did it, again, and again, and again.

Dallin and his buddy buried Brent

After we played in the sand we hiked down to the waterfall. It's all lava rocks and I had Spencer in a pack on my back. It was a tight fit in some spots, kind of made me nervous. Some moms bowed out at this point.

I can't believe these crazy kids went in, it was freezing.

Spencer was having the best time. Every time I put him in the backpack he screamed to get back out and run around.

Then the MUD FIGHT started.

This is the end result.

Eliza was stringing mud through her hair. She was having everyone cover her in mud. It was fun until she wanted it off and had to lay in the freezing cold water to try and rince some of it off. Which is kind of pointless, since the water is basically mud.

Eliza and I hiked to the other side of the waterfall, we hike about 3/4 of the way up but the rest was really muddy and slick rock. I didn't want to come down with Spencer on my back, so we said good enough.

A look down the canyon, they call this the Little Colorado, obviously it empties into the Colorado River. I was a great kick off to Spring break. Now I have to get ready for Sycamore Canyon tomorrow and all I really want to do is go to bed.

Spencer playing in the black sand and loving it.

Spencer slidding down the black sand hill like al the other kids. He was laughing the whole way down.

Dallin following his peers, and jumping off the cliffs into the sand.

Spring Break in full swing

2011-03-13T18:16:00.001-07:00

Before I get into spring break, today after church, Dallin said, "An eagle just flew by our window." Of course my first thought was he was mistaken. Sure enough I was wrong. We have been outside most of the day watching him fly over our heads and the lake. We can see him perched on the tree (picture right below), from our back windows. He sits up there for about 30-40 min. then flies around the lake for about 5 minutes. We figured out why he is here, all the ducklings are starting to hatch. Because we sit right on the lake, he literally turns right above our house and swoops towards the lake right in front of us.

Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday were all early out days. The weather has been so beautiful we have spent as much time outside playing as possible. On Friday I checked the kids out early along with, Brooklyn (so she could babysit Spencer), Tanner, Taige and Brody I took them all up to ski and snowboard for what I think is the last time this winter. The lifts stayed open until 6. So it was a very fun, long day. Everyone was tired by the time we were done. Saturday, chores, but then we played. We rounded up some boys and played baseball for a while. Then the kids came back over to our house for a late night. We got pizza, the boys ding-dong-ditched us for about an hour. We sent Lucy after them. Then we loaded everyone one up and went hot tubing over at the country club, and then back to our house for these owl cupcakes (below) that the girls and I made. Thank goodness today was a down day, so I can get ready for the upcoming week. Our plans for the week go as follows. Monday- Grand Falls aka Chocolate(mud) Falls, Tuesday- Sycamore in Cottonwood, we are meeting friends up there who are camping and riding 4 wheelers for the day, Wednesday- a take it easy day, Thursday- going to Sedona with friends for the day. Friday and Saturday I'm not to sure about yet. I'm sure I will come up with something. I do get to go out on a date with my hubby Saturday night that will be fun,

Sarah, these are for you. As soon as it gets a little warmer, I will put everyone in there Hawaiian outfits that you sent, and get a picture.

He is still playing with this frog all the time. I have to say I'm getting a little sick of the song. But don't worry my kids aren't, and neither are all of their friends that come over.

Visit from Aunt Stacy

2011-03-09T21:51:00.000-07:00

Spencer enjoying a cupcake at the last b-ball game of the season.

Aunt Stacy came for a visit. It was fun to have her around. I did feel bad that Saturday was so crazy. She got in Friday night at 8:30. We were at a Mardi Gras Party, which was so much fun. The Graham's always have a good party, friends, music and great food. Then Saturday, we had our last basketball game. Eliza had to cheer for a game. Home for lunch and nap by 1:00. It was also baseball tryouts, but we decided to go on Monday. At 3 I had to be back over to Trinity, (that's were they play ball), to help set up the gym for Awards night. At 4:45 it was the coaches banquet, then at 6, we met our team in the gym for the Awards. It was over at 8:10. My kids stood in line to get a basketball players autograph. This guy came who could do some amazing tricks with basketballs and showed of for the kids. he also shared his testimony of the Gospel with them. Then finally home.Oh yeah and Steve had to work all day. It was a fun season we went 8 and 2. Proud of them. Basketball season over and right into baseball. They asked me to coach Eliza's team, should be fun, and busy.

On Sunday we went to Sedona for the day.

Stacy, "Someday my Prince will come!"

Emily don't be greedy, you already have a Prince.

Eliza, not ready for her Price yet. She still has her Dad.

Spencer being oh so funny, and OH SO BUSY!!!! Monday night the family was sitting around the table talking and I had just got Spencer out of his high chair. Steve said to me, "Have you seen him do this yet?" I turned around to see him climbing up the chair and onto the kitchen table.

We were trying to find a park to have lunch, and we found this one. I have been to Sedona a hundred times, and have never seen this park. I just happened to catch a glimpse of this park from the road. We drove around until we figured out how to get in, and SOOO well worth it.

Not only did it have a giant chess board, they also had booce, horseshoes, miniature golf (free), a river to feed the ducks and fish, and a swing set. Also it was so clean, we spent a few hours there, just playing.

Yep, they also had a maze.

I feel like I am going to run out of energy soon. Spencer is giving me a run for my money, and I'm not giving anything up. If anything I am adding to the schedule. Monday, up bu 6 to take hip hop carpool. I watched Hallie who's Dad was getting knee surgery. And cleaned house all day, I did squeeze in a work out, P90X, kicking my trash. For family night we played a fun game of hide-n-go-seek, and went over Family rules.Tuesday, up by 6 to get Eliza off to dance. I was out the door by 9:30 to run errands or should I say chase Spencer through the stores. I came home made cupcakes for my girlfriends birthday lunch-in that was Wednesday morning, worked out, took Dallin to baseball tryouts. He did really well. Rushed Eliza over to tap dance which she ended up missing because tryouts ran late. Finally made it home by 6 and then pulled out leftovers, did homework. I was in bed by 9. Today was supposed to be fun. I went to Traverna's for Gretchen's Birthday lunch, Spencer had to come. I think i got to take a couple of bites of food and talk to a friend a couple of times. i mainly chased Spencer in my heels through the restaurant. He will not stay in his highchair. he stands up and climbs out. He managed to change the TV channel about 4 times and broke open the remote about 4 times. He ran into the kitchen twice. I had to change a dirty diaper, and try and feed him. HAHA he only feeds himself now a days. The best part is, some of there decor was a bowl of pine cones, I turned to watch Spencer running and throwing 2 of them across the floor. He's only one kid right? The best part was when Cindy asked Spencer, "Your a good boy, right?" And Spencer shook his head, NO!!! The rest of the day was busy but not rush, rush from one place to the next. Next week is spring break, our plan is to ski and hang out. We are trying to save for Disney World 1st of May.

Skiing

2011-03-09T20:28:00.000-07:00

On the top Agassiz. We have talk Eliza into any new run we want to go on. We have been doing the top of Agassiz since last year but we finally convinced her going to the left is just as easy as the right. She loved it, and skied down with ease.

Eliza and Steve on the lift. The first jumps of the day. Not the best but these are the only pictures we took.

Christmas 2010, Utah

2011-03-09T20:17:00.000-07:00

The first day we were there we spent most of the day at BYU. We played basketball, football, and played around on all the track and field equipment. It was lots of fun. The second day a big storm rolled in. It snowed for about 2 days and was freezing. So we postponed skiing till the weather warmed up a little, but we did go sledding.

We bowled.

This was so funny, Dallin makes me laugh. So does Matt, he about took out a column, a little ways down the lane. He caught the corner of it, ball on the fly, while he was trying to spin the ball. Too Funny.

Rachel with Eliza at Grandma Estelle's.

Rachel, Eliza, Grandma, and my Aunt Stacie.

We were playing hide and go seek, while we were at their house. This costume, was hanging on the wall when I was hiding. I put it on and stood in the corner, but Dallin still found me. Then everyone wanted to try it on.

Spencer need a nap. The only place I could find that was totally black, was one of my Grandma's many closets. It took a while but he finally passed out.

Spencer with Grandpa Charles and Grandma Estelle,

We went to a BYU basketball game.

Spencer with Uncle Tom, Uncle Tom Is the best babysitter. Spencer loves him.

I forgot my camera but we also got to ski.

Spencer playing B-Ball

2011-03-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

This kid is the biggest HAM. He knows how to work a room and loves attention. He has just started throwing some real fits to get what he wants and he screams. If you have something he wants he screams at you, until you give him what he wants. But honestly he is so darn cute and funny it's hard to ever get upset with him.

Sledding

2011-02-25T10:39:00.001-07:00

Me with some of the ladies. Tabby and Eliza, Eliza is always trying to talk me into pulling her back up the hill. Looks like she convinced Tabbitha.

Even Lucy found a friend, she ran around the whole time. A lot of times she ran down the hill after Eliza and myself.

Cute girls and great friends.

Eliza and Mom, with Lucy on our tails. We try to put her on the sled but she just jumps off.

The jump was not the funnest landing when you went off it on he sled, kind of hard. On the inner tube, it was tons of fun. You can't see the ground but I caught a lot of air, like I said tons of fun. Until later that afternoon when my neck was a little sore.

See the landing on the neck, that would explain the stiffness.

Me and Eliza, we had lots of fun. Poor Dallin was home sick so he could not come. He was very missed, Spencer was at home as well asleep, so Liza and I got to play. Thanks for the great day Little, Lou.

Good Day

2011-02-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was such a fun day. The weather has been so nice the past few days, high 50's low 60's. Yesterday Spencer and I spent most of the morning on a walk. Then when he went down for a nap I got my house spotless, which always makes me happy. Steve came home for lunch, we were out the door by 3pm to pick up the kids. That gave Spencer and I an extra 20 minutes to play at the park. Eliza's friend came home with us, so she had a friend to play with, while Dallin, myself and his friends played a intense game of football. We played for about an hour. Then everyone came back to our house. The girls had a great idea to have a lemonade stand, the boys then wanted in on the profit so they sold all the candy, left over from Halloween and Christmas. They stayed out there and sold till 6 pm. Each of them made around 3$. Not a bad afternoon. Even when I was tucking the kids in, they were still talking about what a fun day it had been. I blame it all on the sun.

Kidnapping

2011-02-11T13:31:00.001-07:00

THE KIDNAPPERS

I was not allowed to go in the house, because they were going in top secret. They had all of these plans and every time I tried to tell them that might not work, or, of course he is going to know it's you guys. They would tell me I was wrong. So, I ended up just keeping quite and saying, that sounds like a great plan you guys. It kind of ended up being more of an assault, than a kidnapping. They jumped him, when they got in the house, Taige's job was to duct tape his mouth, Dallin's job was putting the pillow case over his head, and Tanner's was to strangle him.

Once they got him out to the car they dressed him in a scarf, a kitty cay mask, and a crown, which he had to wear to breakfast. They kept him bagged till we got to the restaurant.

They lead him out of the car and into, "The Place," were we ate breakfast. Spencer just follows the big boys were ever they go. Even at breakfast he wanted out of his high chair to go sit in their laps. I think he took a turn sitting in each boys lap. After breakfast I dropped them off at school, they made Brody go in his PJ's. After school Brody's Dad picked them all up and they went bowling for his birthday party.

They all had lots of fun, and are a really good group of friends.

Spencer before the kidnapping. I had to jump in the shower so I asked Dallin to watch him. When I cam out of my room I found him dressed up just like Dallin and helping himself to some breakfast. I guess since Dallin put on a hat this morning, Spencer went into the room and got down another one of Dallin's hats, so he could match his big brother.

Not only is the cereal good but so is the bag. He was licking off all the powder from the lucky charms.

He has just realized hes been caught, I don't think he cares.

3rd Black Eye

2011-02-03T14:49:00.001-07:00

Here he is showing you his THIRD Black Eye. Thank goodness there aren't a bunch of bruises all over the rest of his body otherwise I'm sure someone would call CPS on me. Even right after he tripped into the stepping stool and got this nice shiner, I had to hurry and grab him of the back of the couch. He was trying to climb over to the top of the computer desk. His firs one he fell off a bed, his second one he was climbing up on the speaker box and fell off. Hopefully he can keep that cute face in tack.

Spencer, reading books, which lasts maybe 3 minutes, or eating that's the only time this kid is not moving. Eliza is home sick, the school called yesterday she had a fever of 103. She seems to be better today, just a cough, and fever. I've said before, that she is SUCH a rule follower. If she is told to do or not to do something she WILL NOT disobey. For instance, I got her home for school and all situated in my room. I was asking her when she started feeling sick. She told me, "Almost all day." I asked her why she didn't go to the nurses office earlier. She told me that she had to get a slip from her teacher to go to the nurses office, and since before lunch she didn't have time, because her teacher was asking her to do things, then at lunch she couldn't find her. After lunch she finally got a chance to tell her that she was sick, so she could get the NOTE before going to the nurses. I wish I was as good as her.

On my mind

2011-02-01T20:13:00.001-07:00

This is a super random blog so you don't have to follow my thoughts if you don't want to.

There's lot of things on my mind right now, always is. first before I complain I will comment on all the things I love about my family. This last Sunday was the 5th Sunday, so we got to come out of primary the last hour and go to grown up class. My good friend Christti Hibbert taught the lesson. She is a psychologist, for postpartum, so her lesson was on women, and men dealing with us women. So, she gives her whole lesson and asks the question to the men, "what do you do or how do you handle your women when they are all stressed, pms, "whatever?" Kind of a loaded question. However it did run through my head, Steve should answer this question. I am very lucky with everything I have been going through this past year, he has been great. He just listens, does what he can to help out with the kids to take some of that pressure of me, and loves me unconditionally. The loving unconditionally is the best part so thanks babe. Pretty lucky I know. Now the reason I wrote. I told Steve the other day I know why I some times wake up mad. It's because, everyday all day, all I do is clean and when I wake up to a mess knowing I have to clean again it makes me mad. This morning I after organizing my pantry, Spencer decides to unload every canned good and carry them all to my closet, who knows why? Last night, when I asked Dallin to clear off his plate his response was, "Why, I just sat down, and you really should tell me when I am by the table that way I don't have to come all the way back over there to do it." Eliza's response every time I ask her to clean her room or her bathroom, "I'm tired." I know pretty normal kids, I just really hate housework, it gets old and it always gets messy.
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Spencer is turning into the funniest little guy. He is a total ham and will try to make you laugh if you are watching him. He is starting to get mischievous. Yesterday he kept trying to get a hold of a music box that is behind a glass door. I wound it up so he could hear it and was holding it so he could see it. Once he started swiping at it I put it away and went back to my room to put clothes away. When I peeked around the corner, he was reaching for the handle to open the door, to get a hold of the music box. When he spotted me, he looked away and slowly pulls his hand away, and starts swaying back and forth to the music. We did this a couple of times and then I picked him up, while laughing. Telling him he is to little to be trying to trick me. He has to bring a ball with him where ever he goes. He is starting to talk a lot more, hot, shoes, our names, ball. He is pointing to his eyes, ears, nose, ect.. He is starting to hit and if he is really tired and mad he will bite. On the flip side he is a total love he blows kisses to everyone and love to kiss Eliza's American girl dolls. He's running and not usually towards me, but away from me with whatever I am trying to take away from him. He tries to leave with whoever comes over. He hates being inside. We have to go on a walk everyday, if weather is decent. I just follow him, he will run all the way down the street stopping to do whatever he finds important. I could go on and on but I do have to go work out before he wakes up.

Winter Wonderland Ball

2011-01-29T22:34:00.002-07:00

Eliza has been counting down the weeks, to this night. Eliza and I got her dress about 2 weeks ago and safely got it home and into her closet before Dad could see it. Every Tuesday Steve gets up early to take her to Jazz class. He has to get her up help her pick out her clothes and get off to school. Well since Dad is not allowed to go near her closet, I have had to sub these past 2 weeks, that way Dad would have NO chance of seeing her dress. It is so fun for me to get her all dressed up for this BIG night with her Dad. She told me yesterday she was starting to get nervous because we hadn't decided how we were going to do her hair. Then this morning when she woke up I was already down stairs so I could hear her let out a big sigh in bed and then say, "I'm so excited tonight is the ball." I know she won't ever forget these date nights with her dad, and I love watching them go on them. She remembered that the last time she came down the stairs she couldn't stop giggling she didn't want to do that this time, she shared all of this with me while we were painting nails, and doing hair. I love the look in her eyes in the picture above. It's right when she came around the corner and she is looking down at her Dad.

She was so hoping her Dad was going to wear a shirt, that matched her dress. She told Steve that I had to pick out his clothes, but he could wear whatever he wanted, kind of.

Dad and Eliza off to the Ball. Steve said that the last ball they went to, they sat with all her friends and danced with them to. Tonight when the got there, her friends asked her to come sit at there table, she told them she just wanted to sit with her Dad. I was told they also danced the night away, I got to see the between the leg move when they got home. So glad you guys had a wonderful night.

Steve's 34th Birthday

2011-01-29T22:10:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Dad. Steve started off the day with getting to sleep in, till 7:30!!! Lucky guy! I got lunch for him at Wildflower Bread Company, then he came home to a decorate house and party waiting for him. The kids helped get everything together. They picked out the over sized Steeler's cookie. I guess that's the team Steve is routing for now? Dallin really wants his Dad to cheer for the same team he wants, Go STEELER'S. Mom Eliza and Spencer are cheering for PACKERS!!!

Spencer got a hold of the football rings and started throwing them all over the house.

Some how it turned into a Ninja party, started by Steve. Aren't streamers great for everything.Ok, this is to cute. We were in Target a couple of days before his birthday, I asked the kids what they wanted to get their Dad. Right away Eliza says, "You know that stuff he uses everyday, under his arms?" I wasn't really paying attention the first time she said it so I said, "No, what are you talking about?" Eliza, "You know that stuff he loves because it makes him smell goo, he puts it on under his arms." Light bulb moment for me, "You mean deodorant?" "Yes that's it. He will love it."

Ninjas

I hope all your birthday wishes come true, babe. We love you.