Enloe

Enloe's in Powell

2009-10-04T10:46:00.001-07:00

The first week in September was spend in Lake Powell with the Enloe's courtesy of Parker and a super fun houseboat that was going unused this year....until the Enloe's snatched it up. I have fallen in love with Powell and I have the Enloe family to thank, they are the ones who first introduced this amazingly beautiful place to me. Hopefully, our children will have many fond memories with aunts, uncles, papa, grandma and cousins in Lake Powell.

Rhys learned how to wake surf and loved it!
He even started tossing the rope back to the boat like he saw the older kids doing.
Hang Loose Buddy!

We found a really great spot to park the houseboat, there was a great beach that the kids played on most of the days.

The "ladies" spent most of our days playing cards. We really enjoy each others company, we have a ton of fun when it comes to games. We even got the guys to join in a few rounds!

Hilly and Jeff brought their kids, Toby and Chuck (the two cutest pugs ever). The kids love having them around, they are super well behaved and really take the abuse the kids give them very well. Chuck even got to wake surf, that was pretty funny to see.
This is Malik and Jackson having a dance party with Chuck.

Lindsey's friend Steve also came with us and brought his two wave runners to share with us. The kids loved zipping around with anyone that would take them for rides.

This is Grandma Needers, Malik on back and Owen in front.

Growing up, Grandma Skousen had a friend that lived with her and helped out with her day care. Her name was Anna Mae. The kids thought that everyone had an Anna Mae just like a Grandma or an Aunt. I think we have found our Anna Mae, this is our Jessie. She is a good friend of Hilly's but has become a staple with the Enloe's. She is great with the kids and super fun to be around......Don't we all have a Jessie?

Camden turned 6 while we were at Powell, we had a fun party for him which included a chocolate cake without frosting that Yaya made special for him, presents and roasting marshmallows. Rhys was so glad that he got to spend Cam's birthday with him!

The girls playing cards...

I love my sisters in law!

Grab a soda, you're gonna be here awhile!

2009-06-25T09:28:00.000-07:00

Alright, here we go.... back by apparent popular demand.... the Enloe Blog!
I have to admit, I have been cheating on my blog....with Facebook!
I am repenting of my evil ways and I am back on the wagon, so graba a soda, get comfy and check out what the Enloe have been up to! There is much more to come so you better prepare yourselves for some serious adventures!!

Hogle Zoo with our Besties

BFF's FOREVER!

"Do I have my cute on?"

Jorie found the outfit that YaYa brought back from China for her in her closet. Up till now, it's been way too big, she wanted to try it on and it fit. We pulled her hair into a bun and put in red pick up sticks to match. She went to the mirror in my room and checked herself out at every angle. As I walked out of the bathroom, she asked me, "Mama, do I have my cute on?" Yes baby, you do have your cute on!! (not to mention you sass!)

Thomas Lakes Hike

We were so impressed with these kids!! Malik and Rhys hiked the whole 8 mile treck and Jorie rode in the pack like a champ, until right at the end when she crashed.

Yes, you are looking at snow!! You know it's been a weird year when you still have snow in June. I guess maybe not so weird when you realize that we were over 8000 feet.

Rock Bottom Ranch
2nd Grade Overnight Fieldtrip

Getting settled for bed. We slept under the stars, I realize it was a field trip, but I had a blast with Malik. We laid in our beds and talked for ever, I eat these moment up!! I hope it meant as much to him as it did to me.

Holding the new baby chicks.

Pond skimming for nasty stuff to look at under the microscopes.

Ladies Night

I know I have said it more than once, and I'll probably say it many more times..... I LOVE my girlfriends!!! I am also so lucky to have my sisters fall into that catagory!

Malik's Baptism

You know how there are days that are just better..... this day was definitely better than most! We were so proud of Malik's decision to be baptized. He was so happy, it was written all over his face. He is really trying hard to make good choices, he wants to be the best he can.
You are an amazing kid Malik! We love you!

Malik's Birthday

They are such cute brothers! (most of the time)

Flag football set from Mom and Dad

Malik choose waffles with Nichole's yummy syrup (at Malik's request) for dinner and a cheese cake (I was so proud) decorated with his Star Wars action figures.

Easter Morning

New Easter clothes

Chairs from the bunny

Rhys, Malik and Jorie after the Easter Egg Hunt at the clubhouse.

Our NEW home!!

YOU ARE IN SO MUCH TROUBLE!

2009-03-16T17:39:00.000-07:00

It sure is a good thing she's cute because she sure is a turkey sometimes! The boys were never this mischievous, Jorie sneaks away and within seconds, not minutes, she is making a mess. Let me give you a quick run down on the recent incidents (I didn't have the presence of mind to take pictures of all of them, we all know how I am when I'm grumpy).

1- Pink lip gloss smeared all over her face
2- Cut her own hair
3- Destroyed my blush and eyeshadow (two items, one incident)
4- Tried to apply mascara (she actually made it on some of her eyelashes and left the incident with both eyes in working order! Kind of impressive!)
5- Needed lotion, 1/2 of a bottle smeared all over her head, face, hand and arms (it was kind of sad, she got it in her eyes) - There have been reoccurring incidents involving lotion one in which I was upstairs and hear Corey shouting, "You are in SOOO much trouble Jorie Marjean!!!"
6- Floods the bathroom on a daily basis trying to "brush her teeth"
7- Sprayed half a bottle of Fabreeze all over the laundry room (keep in mind, there is actually no fabric in the laundry room, only tile and cabinets)
8- Loves to fill the toilet with toilet paper and then flush........
9- Wanted more "eggies" and cracked 2 on the counter and started to licked her fingers before I got to her.
10- Pooped in the bathtub and almost made Rhys throw up.

She is sure a sweetie when she wants to be, but she definitely gives me a run every single day! I'm sure I will continue to add to this list in the near future, but I had to share our misadventures thus far. Love that Binks!

The Mascara Incident (look closely at her lashes!)The Lip Gloss Incident

The "Eggies" IncidentThe Lotion Incident
(the picture doesn't do it credit, it was EVERYWHERE)

Big News for Binks!

2009-02-25T06:51:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in my last post, Jorie has been very interested in potty training lately so we let her pick out some fun prizes as rewards for going in the potty. I hat to speak too soon, but she is doing GREAT! I love to watch her get so excited when she has remembered to tell me she need to go and then after she is done she is so proud! I realize we aren't there yet, but I think she is well on her way!!
Big News = No more Diapers!!!

Way to go Jor Jor Binks!!

But that's not all for the big news, this may be even bigger news!

As many of you know, Jorie has has a pretty severe dairy allergy that makes her pretty sick if she eats dairy. So, since she was about a month old, we have withheld as much dairy as humanly possible. If she mistakenly gets her hands on dairy and eats it, within 2-3 hours her tummy is pretty upset and we end up using 50 diapers the next day. Our pediatrician told us that she may or may not grow out of this, so we should test it every 6 months or so. About 4 weeks ago, Jorie flipped out and wanted a bowl of mac and cheese, we ended up giving it to her and hoping for the best. The best happened!!!! Absolutely nothing! So needless to say we tested it again with yogurt. Again, nothing!!! We then let her have a piece of cheese.......nothing!! Alas, we have not withheld anything from her in the last 4 weeks and she is doing remarkable!

Big News = No more Dairy Allergy!!!!

Super FUN Saturday!

2009-02-22T15:14:00.001-08:00

We all have a bit of Spring Fever and have been cooped up a little long. We just needed to get out of the house before we all went crazy!

We started our day at Target, getting some potty training rewards for Jorie then went to Costco for lunch and a few groceries. (this may not seem super fun to you but our kids LOVE lunch at Costco and since we moved and have to travel an hour to get to Costco it is even more of a treat!) Then we gave the kids the choice between a movie or bowling and of course they choose bowling. We love to bowl together, I love to watch my kids be so supportive of each other and give high fives all around EVERY turn! I think we kind of bugged the family in the lane next to us, but they definitely weren't having as much fun as us. Then, in true awesome parent form, we went to City Market (the only place we can rent movies) for a movie (Madagascar 2) and popcorn and ice cream (for dinner, best parents EVER!)

I LOVE spending time with my family! I truly don't think many other things give me so much satisfaction! I Corey's words, "My kids make me happy!"

Corey, after he knocked a pin into the lane.

Rhysee doing the happy dance!

Malik putting on a show ( I told him to be super happy for the picture)

This is how Jorie bowls, so cute! I had a picture of her happy dance afterward but it was so blurry you couldn't see it.

Nice hiney shot of Corey huh?

My Family, My Babies, My World!!

2009-01-24T19:15:00.000-08:00

I can't help myself! I have to share the cutest pictures of my little family. I LOVE these pictures, if I could freeze our kids I would!

We were so lucky to find such a great photographer, check out more of her work at - www.carlycarlsonphotography.com - she is amazing and super talented!

Thanks Carly!

Silly kids!!! I LOVE it!

This one is for Papa Craig, he loves old trucks and Malik needed to take a picture for him by this cool old Dodge!

Rhys Turns 5

2009-01-23T16:04:00.000-08:00

Rhys' 5th Birthday!
When asked what Rhys wanted to have for his birthday dinner. his reply was, "I like those haystack things (Hawaiian Haystacks), but you know what I really love.......Breakfast!" We ended up having waffles with strawberries and whip cream, scrambled eggs, and chocolate milk. YUMMY
Happy Birthday Rhysie!!

Party Crew

Jorie, Caden(upside down), Connor, Wheeler, Rhys, Malik and Riley

Malik and Jorie got a Lizard Webkin for Rhys (he hasn't set it down since)

Rhys and Wheeler

They have become fast friends. They go to preschool together and have been come really close! Wheeler has some medical issues that make him appear smaller than other kids his age, he and Rhys are the same age.

Rhys chose a "skeleton dinosaur" cake (???), he never seizes to amaze me, I never would have guess this one, but he absolutely loved it!

Jorie's Birthday

2009-01-21T07:50:00.000-08:00

Jorie's 2nd Birthday - Ariel Party
Having a Christmas day birthday, for some, might not be too fun, but for Jorie it's a blast! Christmas stops at our house in the afternoon and we go into full birthday mode! Balloons, streamers, birthday cake and presents wrapped in non-christmas paper! We had a fun party and Jorie loved her Ariel cake that she picked out!
Happy Birthday Princess!

The day Jorie picked her cake, she was actually singing to the cake lady like Ariel does and saying "I wub it, my Ariel" - she was so excited!!!

"A present for me?!?!"

Ariel doll from mama and daddy.

"It's my Pony's!!!!" From Rhys and Malik, which she happened to find in mom and dad's closet a couple days before. I need to learn to hide better.

Papa Ron and Grandma Needers sent a Curious George stuffed animal and book.
She "wubs" "Curdidus Goege."

December in Colorado

2009-01-09T08:45:00.000-08:00

Brrrrrrrrr

Simply put, it's been chilly.
Anyone for a Polar Bear Party?

Although, you have to admit, this is beautiful!

The Sunday before Christmas, we went to church, then over to Corey's hotel for a few picture opps of the family and the kids in there christmas clothes.
(Thanks to Hillary and Grandma Needers for Jories dress.)

Don't be decieved, she has promptly and right on schedule moved into the terrible two's, complete with spontanious crying and uncalled for bossing of everyone around her.

Wow, she makes me smile!

The Munchkins

We really did miss all the Christmas chaos with family and friends, on the other hand, our first little Christmas alone was very relaxed and peaceful. Thanks for all of you cards and Christmas wishes, we love and miss you all very much!

And the WINNER is.....

2009-01-05T18:20:00.000-08:00

The votes are in and the polls are closed.

17 to 5 is ts the final count,
and the winner, of course, is ME!!!

Thank you all who recognized the masterpiece in it's entirety. Complete with custom ice skating pond, gazebo and festive holiday wreath. (not to mention, the matching and patterned roof kissables)

Thanks for your vote, and thanks to the 5 people who voted for Corey's eco friendly home, he really need your votes for his self esteem. He really did do a great job...... mine was just simply better:)

Gingerbread House Competition

2008-12-29T09:21:00.000-08:00

So, Corey and I got a bit competitive with our Gingerbread houses.......then, of course, we both were convinced that ours were the best. Really the only thing we could agree on was that we should let our friends and family decide. So, VOTE on the poll to the right.......

Gingerbread Houses

2008-12-29T08:19:00.000-08:00

The last time we tried to do gingerbread houses, we made them from graham crackers like I did when I was little, but we apparently didn't have the right "glue". The frosting we used wouldn't let the houses stick together and it was super frustrating. So, this year I was proactive and used the glue gun to put them together before hand. Worked GREAT!

Rhys got really into it and even made a pond in the front yard! Such a cutie!

Malik, true to form, made his a masterpiece, he spend a great deal of time on the design and made it just right. Our little artist!

Bet you can't guess which one Jorie did.....

Clue, most of her decorating went right in her mouth!!!

Salt Dough Candle Holders

2008-12-22T16:32:00.000-08:00

Malik got a book at school called Craft Ideas For Kids. He and Rhys looked through it at least 50 times then announced that they would be making Salt Dough Christmas Candle Holders for their teachers and Grandma's and Papa's for Christmas. After looking over the ingredient list and making a list on Saturday we headed to the store. Then, yesterday after church, we began our 7 hour project. Mind you it's not a difficult project, my children are just perfectionists! They spent almost 4 hours painting them after they had cooked! Fun project, even Jorie and Dad got into it!

Check out the green paint on Rhys' forehead and red paint on his cheek....When Malik is really consentrating he sticks his tongue out the side of his mouth....

Enloe Update!

2008-12-19T09:33:00.000-08:00

Hello all! Just thought I would rejoin the land of blogging and give you all an update from our new little neck of the woods.

The move went without a hitch and we have temporarily moved into a 3 bedroom home that a friend of our is giving us a great deal on. We are currently in the middle of trying to make a decision (which you all know isn;t an easy thing for us to do) about more permanent living arrangements. Hopefully, by February, we will either be breaking ground for a new home or have found one that we love and in the purchase process. For now, our rental is just fine and in a great location.

Malik started into his new 2nd grade class and loves it!!! Initially he was so sad/mad about the move but to his surprise he has fallen right in step and has made some great new friends. I also have been pretty inpressed with this new school, don't be jealous, but there are only 15 students in his class!!! It's a dream!

After hours on the phone trying to find a preschool for Rhys with openings, I finally found one. The only one in the whole stinkin' valley with an opening! In hopes that we might be able to pay Rhys' tuition in January, I will be selling a kidney. Let me know if you are interested. Rhys loves his school! They have movement classes on Mondays, gymnastics on Thursdays, and they get to play in the bounce house once a week. The play yard is like nothing I have ever seen! The have a bear cave, tunnels and hills, a treehouse and most recently (and Rhys' fav), sledding hills and sleds. They have a great time and Rhys always leaves with a smile!

Jorie and I spend a couple of hours on Monday at a play gym called GiminiKids. There are always kids her age to play with and I think the change of scenery is very welcome for Jorie. She misses her brothers while they are gone but is so happy when they get home. She is very chatty and is going through a phase where she asks thousands of questions, not only once but 5-6 times! Cute but kind of annoying. She is getting so big!

Corey is definately in his element! He loves his new job (not to mention the 5 powder days he has had in the last 3 weeks, thanks to 3-4 feet of new snow). This job in this area was made for Corey! He has always been very content with his job but now I see a huge difference in him when he comes home at night, he is so happy! He is getting ready to put the kids in ski school and can't wait for spring so we can all bike and hike the thousands of trails availabe to us.

I am very happy here but more than once a day I miss my old routine and my girlfriends and family. I love being a mom and I love my family. I am happiest when I am with them!

We love you all and hope you all want to take fun and exciting vacations to visit us, we will make it worth your while!!!! Promise!!

Yesterday afternoon it warmed up by about 10 degrees (which brought it just above freezing) and some of the snow on our tin roof began to slide. Although not for long, the temp dropped well below 15 degrees pretty quick. This morning the kids were facinated by this scene in our backyard. The snow was curved and the icesicles curved in toward our house!!! Crazy, but really pretty cool, just thought we'd share!

Chicago

2008-11-20T16:51:00.000-08:00

I really look forward to, what seems to have turned into a tradition, making the annual trip with Corey to Chicago for his budget reviews in the late fall. Last year, Ty and Carrie were able to make the trip with us, which was a blast! This year it ended up just the two of us and Corey knowing how much I wanted to see "Dirty Dancing", was able to finagle great tickets for us!

Over our 10 years of marriage, food has become our hobby and not just food......GREAT food, which in turn has lent us the nickname, "Food Snobs". This night was no different, we had dinner at a restaurant called 312 Chicago, which happens to be managed by a friend of ours, it was amazing! Then off to the show! Super fun and entertaining (even Corey loved it!), if you have a chance to see it, I would highly recommend it!

Our last night in Chicago we went to Sushi (ever try super white tuna? DELISH!) then to a renowned comedy club called The Second City. We had never heard of it but when we walked in we instantly recognized tons of the alumni pic all over he walls, everyone from Alan Alda to John Candy and Steve Carell to Tina Fay got there comedy start here! I could never explain how seriously funny it was! My cheeks hurt and my belly ached from all the laughing! I really hope to see these Comedians around someday, they were great!

Sushi - Yum Yum!

PS -After all of this I really need to make sure my mom knows how grateful we are to her for being able and will in to come stay with our kids while we went and played. She is a wunderful woman and our children adore her and are so lucky yo have her in their lives!
Thanks again Grandma Marj!

Punkins, Parades, Cousins, Leaves, Trick-or-Treat, and FIRE

2008-11-03T13:57:00.000-08:00

Punkins

For family night, we carved our punkins, much to Corey's dismay. Corey wishes every year that the kids would just plan forget about carving pumpkins. The smell and texture of the inerds hits the gag reflex and it's all down hill from there. So, with the fans on and the windows open wide, we attempted to spend a bit of quality time as a family. Dad cut off the tops, then retreated to his happy place while and mom and the kids scooped out the guts. Incidentally, Jorie and Malik love the inerds and have no problem, but Rhys on the other hand may have a bit of the dads weak stomach. He tried so hard but I think he may have turned green.

Parades

Malik's Halloween parade was on Thursday, due to the fact that there wasn't any school on Friday this week. I'm pretty sure I don't have any shy children, including Malik, he walked the whole parade acting like a Transformer and ate up all the attention, he was Bumblebee this year and acted the part to the T.
Malik and his friend Tyrell

Cousins
We are so lucky to have cousins! Jorie especially eats up all the attention that Cedar and Tannen give her. She has so much fun with them and they are so good to her. Jorie and the girls had a blast playing in the leaves all afternoon before we went trick-or-treating. So Cute!
Tannen, Jorie and Cedar
Trick-or-Treat
Traditionally, the kids and I go to dads work and trick-or-treat around the hotel. The kids eat it up, they get so much attention from everyone. Hanging out at dads work is always a highlight for the kids. Then later, that day all our cousins came to play, have dinner and go trick-or-treating. We were such a heard walking up and down the street, not unusual though, we are for sure the Martin heard when we are all together. I wouldn't trade it for he world, I love my family!
Optimus Prime (aka:Rhys) Ladybug (aka:Jorie) Bumblebee (aka:Malik)
Trick-orTreating at Daddy's hotel
CousinsIvy and Jorie
Uncle Papa (or Uncle Kevin) and Jorie
(she started calling him Uncle Papa tonight, so so cute)

FIRE
After we all had our fill of trick-or-treating, we went back to our house to light the fire pit and have hot chocolate in the circle (good thing, it was a chilling 65 degrees out!) All in all it was a great day and a super fun night. Thanks all for helping us make fun memories!
Rhys and Cam
Malik and Christian

So Proud I May Actually Burst!

2008-10-24T18:33:00.000-07:00

Last night I received a phone call from Malik's teacher telling me that during the assembly on Friday he would be receiving the "Principal's Award" and if we could attend that would be great. I was so excited for him! Many of you can relate to this feeling, it begins with a little lump in your throat, your heart jumps a bit and finally, when you can't hold it back any longer, you cry tears of joy for your sweet child. As his mother, I have the amazing opportunity to know how smart, creative and funny Malik is, but it is always makes a mom proud to know that others see those same things.

I love you Mal, you make my heart happy!
Sorry, it's a little blurry, Malik is dead center in the stripped shirt.

News

2008-10-22T08:35:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess it's time to make it official. My amazing husband has hit one of his top professional goals. Corey has been offered the GM job at the hotel he used to be the controller for. (I don't want to be to specific about where and when on the blog but if you want details, give me a call or email me) So, I guess the point of this post is to let everyone know we are moving! We are excited for this opportunity but at the same time we are very sad to leave everyone/everything we love here and start again. It was a hard decision, but we definitely have been guide and we know this is where we are suppose to be.

Wish us luck and PLEASE come visit soon!

4 and 4 Tag (then maybe 6 and 6?)

2008-10-21T17:33:00.000-07:00

Ok, this is fun! Marinda and Carrie did this fun tag where you had to pick your fourth folder and your fourth picture from your photos on your computer, post it and tell about. Fun right? I thought so, so here it goes......

Christian, Malik, Rhys
Such fun memories, I will take any chance I get to remember super important events. This was the day we blessed Rhys, he was 2 1/2 months old and looked so cute in his little newsboy cap. Malik was so excited to have a new baby, he took every chance he could get to hold Rhys, but on the other hand he was so mad at Corey and I for months.
Also, my nephew Christian and Malik were born on the same day one year apart, they are lucky to have a cousin who is one of your best friends.

Now, everyone else, show me your 4 and 4 too........ and while you are at to maybe your 6 and 6!

Here's my 6 and 6, this is kind of addicting!
Carrie and Ty
What a crack up!!!!! For Carrie's 30th birthday I put together a book with some pictures for her about her life, Ty sent me a bunch of pics and....... apparently this is my 6 and 6! I don't even know the story behind this one (maybe Carrie can shed some light) but I do know that this is very typical of them. Ty, mellow and doesn't really like to smile for pics and Carrie, silly, beggin' for more and lovin' the camera!

First Snow........ Now It's Gone

2008-10-12T16:09:00.000-07:00

Malik and Rhys woke up this morning with wide eyes and big plans for our first snow of the year. Snowmen, sledding, snowball fights, they couldn't their ideas out fast enough. They were so cute as they ushered Jorie to the back door to show her the snow, or as she calls it, snowman. I know you can't see it very well but the snow is coming down pretty hard, then it stopped and before church at 1:00, it had melted. The boys were so disappointed, I really don't think the snow will come to soon for them. I don't know if I can agree, I really want a few more weeks of fall!

Clone Wars Party

2008-10-09T11:12:00.000-07:00

I think I have mentioned it before, but Malik and Rhys are super freaks when it comes to Star Wars. Last Friday night was the premiere of a new show on cartoon network, Clone Wars - The Series. The boys counted down the days, then as the day arrived, the hours until it started. Malik invited two of his friends, Easton and Cannon, and Rhys invited his friends Jacob and Owen to have a Clone Wars premiere party, stalked with treats of every kind to get them through the hour. They were so funny, what a fun late night!

All the Ladies in my life...

2008-10-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

If you are a lady in my life, this is for you! I started a new blog, just for me and my ladies! Nothing spectacular, just random thoughts I'd like to share that really have nothing to do with my family blog, it's really just an outlet for me. Check it out, come be silly with me! motherof3andstillme.blogspot.com

Flag Football or aka Organized Chaos

2008-10-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

Malik started flag football on Tuesday. Seriously, who ever thought teaching a bunch of 7 year olds to play flag football was a good idea? Two words, total chaos! Although, there is an entertainment factor that can't be overlooked. I am just going to give then the benefit of the doubt and wait til after a few practices and games, maybe they will start to catch on. Thankfully, they have great coachs, thanks for your patients JD and Eric, it might pay off.

Malik - dead center

"Pissess Dess"

2008-10-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

The other day Jorie was super angry with me and screaming "pissess dess" at me, I just wasn't getting it! Finally after close o an hour I figured it out, she wanted to wear her "princess dress"!!! Oh right! Silly mommy!
We put on her dress from Hillary's wedding and
she made Rhys "twirw" or twirl with her in the living room.
She was so funny, I think I know what she should ask for for christmas.........

Mal's last soccer game......until Spring!

2008-09-27T07:52:00.000-07:00

Thursday night's victory over the Wildcat team marked Malik's last soccer game until spring. They won 3-2 and were ecstatic! They are a pretty good little team for their age and hopefully they will keep getting better. I can't wait for spring, I love to watch him play!

Malik's team was the Cobras and when we went to pick up his jersey he choose number 1 and was so excited to be number 1. When we arrived at the first game, every kid had the same jersey, number 1. Maybe they got a good deal on jerseys this year. He was so disappointed!
Malik is just left of the ball in the white jersey, he was getting ready to steel the ball!

Jeff and Hillary's Wedding

2008-09-25T13:07:00.000-07:00

After much anticipation, Jeff and Hillary were married in the Bountiful Temple last weekend. What an amazing sealing. Their Sealer had a lot of great advise and words of counsel.

The reception in Vernal the next day was a bit crazy what with the rain and all, but in the end it turned out great. Anita spent over 100 hours on Jorie and Olivia's dresses, but it was well worth it! They were almost more beautiful than Hillary.

Welcome to the craziness Jeff, you are going to fit right in!!! Congratulations, Hillary and Jeff!

Grandma Velva (GG)

2008-09-25T12:58:00.000-07:00

I am very behind on my family posts, granted the last two weeks have been crazy.

On September 9th, we received word hat Corey's grandmother, Velva Skousen (Enloe), passed away. She has been progressively not as healthy in the last few months and we knew that we didn't have much time left with her. The funeral was nice and there wasn't a dry eye. I learned some things I hadn't known about her and I'm sad I didn't take more opportunities to talk with her. She was a fun loving, strong woman who will be remembered with much love.

Rhys' First Day of Preschool

2008-09-04T19:14:00.000-07:00

Rhys went back to school yesterday, 4 year old preschool. This year is going to be great! Rhys is so lucky to have the best teacher in the whole preschool, Mrs. Dansie. It just so happens that she is in our ward and we were able to request her for this year. Malik was able to ahve her in preschool too so we knew just what to expect, tons of learning fun!

Just outside the door if the blue room there is a board for each child to sign in on. Rhys watched Malik do this for a year and was so excited to get his turn. As he signed his name I turned to talk to Mrs. Dansie and when we looked back Rhys had signed his name in perfect mirror image. I told her I had never seen him do that before and her response to me was that writing his name backwards was actually very talented. She went on to tell me that kids his age start to get bored with the whole name thing as they start to learn more new things with their letters, numbers and words. It becomes old hat and they start to try new things when writing their name. She said don't be surpeised if he starts writing it perfectly upside down either. Silly kid!
As we rode home after his first day, he could n't stopping talking about his monster picture he made. He said that was his favorite thing about his first day of school.

What happens in Vegas...Stays in Vegas!

2008-09-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official, Hillary and Jeff are engaged and getting married in three weeks. To celebrate, all the ladies met for a "wild" weekend in Vegas (Hillary's new home).
After arriving on Friday night, we stayed up talking and laughing until about 4am, then up again at 8am, in just in time to arrive at the JW Marriot Spa for an amazing five hour relaxing
experience and one of the best facial I have ever had
(probably because it wasn't an ordinary facial, it was FULL body facial, awesome!)
After the spa, we all went to Hillary's friend Jessie's house for her third and final (oh, sad, that's all) bridal shower. To wrap up those couple of hours, Hillary and Jeff's first week of marriage should be "super fun and eduacational" to say the least.
Then were off to shop and have dinner and hit the club. Some of us spent way to much money, bought way to many bags (you know who you are), and drank way to much caffine (that would be me), trying to stay awake for our long night of shakin' it at the club, which we didn't even arrive at until midnight!!! Zowie Bowie was the name of the club and super fun coverband, I really think Bowie thinks he is David Bowie and Zowie..... well, I guess you had to be there, right ladies?! I caught my second wind just before we arrived, good thing because as we moved to the front row just by the stage the music took hold and we all (including all the mormon mamas) "busted a move!" That lifestyle is so foriegn to me, but it sure is fun to watch people make fools of themselves!Dinner at Archi's Thai BistroReady to hit the town....Could someone remind me to try not to look like an idiot in EVERY picture we take!Hilly, thanks so much for a fun girls weekend in the city that never sleeps!
Let's do it again next year!

First Day at a New School

2008-08-25T18:30:00.000-07:00

What a brave kid! Actually, what a brave mom! I was way more nervous for him than he was today, but I guess that's what we do as moms. I just wanted him to fit in and find new friends. He pretty much hadn't even though about those things yet, he was just excited to go to school and start something new. I don't really know why I worry, he is the type of kid that if no one is talking to him he'll scope the scene, pick out some kids that look like they are having fun, introduce himself and jump right in to whatever they are doing. And, true to form, that's exactly how he explained his day, he made himself right at home. I am so glad he trusted me and Corey that this move was for the best and he would do great! I love you buddy, you are such a great kid, I could learn a lot from your example.

2nd Grade (or peace out, whatever)Malik and Madi
(I hate this super cheese face, can't you just do a normal smile! He was just this excited!)

Final Friday Fling Before School Starts

2008-08-25T16:51:00.000-07:00

Friday was our last outing before school started. We were so excited to have our cousins to play with for the whole day, so we decided to hit the zoo. My sister Colette and My nephew Anthony also joined us for the day.

Oh sweet! Check out how cute my little princess is, can you see her? She's the one in the middle with her finger up her nose!!!!! Nice Jorie!!!

I don't have any super funny stories from this rip but every time we go to the zoo, I always remember my favorite story from a few years ago when Malik was 3 or 4. We were looking at a small squirrel like animal and the zoo keeper had attached tissues to the branches in the cage for it to play with. As Malik walked by and his comment went something like this, "Oh look that squirrel's been decoratin'." My sister and I fell to the floor laughing and Malik had no idea what was so funny. I had to get a picture of the cage, so here is the actual picture from that day.

Summer Countdown

2008-08-24T13:58:00.001-07:00

It's official, it's our last week before school starts on Monday. Our neighbors, the Hunter's, invited us over to play on their super cool blow up, water slide and pool. The day was so hot and the water was very welcoming. The stairs on the slide were kind of tricky to get up so everyone helped by pushing each other up and when the top person would slip they would take out everyone below them. It was super comical to watch!
Thanks Jamie and Colton for a fun afternoon!

The long awaited "Clone Wars"

2008-08-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

On Monday, Corey and I loaded up 6 kids, took them to dinner and FINALLY went to The Clone Wars. Malik and Rhys have hardly been able to wait to see this new addition to Star Wars. Malik invited Madi and Easton to come and Rhys brought along his best friend Jacob, could it seriously get any better, awesome movie and awesome friends! We had tons of fun, but it sure made Corey and I realize that there is no way we could have 6 kids!

Lunch, Animals, Bees, Trees and Dr. Gray

2008-08-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

From this picture you may not think our day with friends at Wheeler Farm was anything thing to brag about, quite the contrary, it was a blast. We met the Tolman's, Gray's and Rex's for a picnic then walked around looking at the animals. After all the animals had been named and given birth dates we headed for the kids favorite old tree that they can play on with a cute little playhouse for the wee ones. Not more than a minute after we arrived at the tree there was a blood curdling scream and Avery running towards us with her hand over her eye. Every child not screaming was talking over each other to explain that a bee had stung her just below her eye. Luckily, we were in the presents of greatness, Dr. Gray. She immediately whipped open her "mom medic bag" and prescribed one piece of Orbit Sweet Mint which immediately took the pain down to a manageable level. Just then, another blood curdling scream from behind the tree, it was Rhys with his had over his eye. That's right, another bee sting, right on his eyelid. And I bet you can guess what happened next, Dr. Gray to the rescue! Our Hero!

At the conclusion of this quite comical scene, Malik had a small piece of wisdom to add, " Well, you can be happy that those bees won't bother you again, because once a bee stings someone they die." Thanks bud, I bet they feel so much better that they had been the last ones to piss off those particular bees.

Anyway, fun day....

Spokane - Family Vacation, third leg

2008-08-07T09:39:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Spokane a couple hours ahead of Ryan and Nichole, which gave us a chance to clean up and settle in a bit before we went to dinner to use the gift certificates that the boys won from their last golf tournament. Great food, great company and a bit of shopping made this night super fun!The next day after Parker and Aria arrived we headed for the Cour de Alene lake house to spend a few days in the water and sun. Malik tried wakeboarding and rocked the ski skimmer. Rhys after he got the hang of it, owned the ski skimmer and didn't want to get off. We were so proud of them wanting to try so many new things. There they go making their daddy proud again!! Malik, Jackson, Hayden and Tyler were inseperable, if they weren't tubing, playing in the water off the dock, or wakeboarding, they could be found watching Star Wars because tehy were too exhausted to do much else. Rhys, Olivia and Cam were also pretty cute together, I can't wait to watch them grow up together and become good friends.
Tyler, Hayden, Malik and Jackson
Ryan and Nichole
Rhys, Hayden, Olivia, Tyler and Malik
Shar and Brenda

The SHOCK Game!
Saturday night Eric and Shar treated us to the last of the regular season Shock Games against the Boise Burn (of course..........do they play anyone else?) I was a blast, we were able to sit in the owners box and have dinner brought to us while watching the game and enjoying each others company. The highlight for Corey is that Eric also has 4 seats right on the front row, it's so fun to watch them get so excited!
Eric, Ryan, Parker, Corey
All the Cousins (minus Jorie and Carter)
Rhys was so excited to get signatures from the players after the game, he was so patient and so excited to meet some of them.
Brenda and Aria - Can I just take a minute and tell you all how much I love my sister in law Aria. I am so glad we have been abe to become friends. I would do anything for her! She definately has become one of my best friends! I love you Aria!
Ryan. Ron, Baby Leif, Parker, Corey, Eric, Kevin
The ladies - Anita, Nichole, Shar, Brenda, Aria, Robyn
They Sister-In-Laws - Nichole, Shar, Aria and Brenda (missed you Lindsey and Hilly, it wasn't the same with out you!)
Shar, after taken' a Lickin!

OK, one more sappy moment! I love SHAR!! We have a lot in common and have a tons of fun together. She makes me happy and I am so glad we married into this same crazy family because I don't know what I would do with out her. Thanks for being my sister/friend, I really wish we could spend more time together, the little time we spend just simply isn't enought!! Love you Shar!

Eric, Shar and Fam.... thanks for such a fun trip, we want more!

Glacier - Family Vacation, second leg

2008-08-07T09:30:00.000-07:00

Wow, just call me super mom..... I just realized I didn't take a dang picture for the whole 3 days we were in Glacier!!! We must have been having too much fun!

Our camp site was just inside the park near McDonald Lake. I think this was one of my favorites. We even had our own private access to the lake from our site. Our 3 days here were spent playing in the chilly lake, hiking, riding our bikes, roasting marshmallows, playing games and oh yes...... the long awaited public shower.

Malik and Rhys' favorite part was sitting around the camp fire asking Corey and I questions about when we were little and wanting to know as many silly stories about us growing up as we could remember. We stayed up for hours talking, I love this time with my little family!! These are the memories that are permanently burned into my mind, I will treasure them forever!

Yellowstone - Family Vacation, first leg

2008-08-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are still alive, but just now being able to breath! We have had a whirlwind past month. SOOOO fun but we are glad to be home and getting back to normal (what ever that means).

We spent 4 days exploring Yellowstone and camped just north of West Yellowstone (accompanied by virtually every bug in North America). The boys loved to check out the maps and help decide what we were going to see next. We hiked a ton and saw a lot of things the boys were fascinated by. Jorie also loved the wawa (water everywhere!). They even did 328 stairs down and up so I could show them my favorite thing in Yellowstone, the Lower Falls! They were such troopers!
Lower Falls - My Favorite!!! I love waterfalls!!!Old Faithful - We only had to wait about 20 minutes (or 3 hours, in Malik's mind) for it to erupt. They were so cute, their eyes got so big as they were screaming "COOL!"
One of our favorites was the bear sanctuary. This is where some baby bears are brought after their parents have been killed. They can't survive in the wild because they don't know how to hunt. Interesting side note, eight years ago, Corey and I stayed in West Yellowstone and visited the bear sanctuary when two of the bears (a brother and sister) were just brought to live there. They were so tiny and cute and now they are huge and beautiful.
My little bears..... (Jorie hated this bear, she was not happy to take this picture)

Man Down!!!

2008-07-09T21:37:00.000-07:00

I have to brag on my Rhysie for a minute. Although Rhys and I are not at the best point in our lives with respect to communication, I truly love him and his sweet little laugh and quick sense of humor. Corey has been working with him for quite awhile on learning how to ride his bike without training wheels. Pretty scary for a little kid, but also pretty frustrating for the dad helping. Finally, last night, Rhys took off and did great! Tonight, they went out to practice again and Rhys was even more confident and super proud! He wanted everyone to watch him.... until he went man down in the middle of the circle without even attempting to catching himself. Rhys was left with some serious road rash to the forehead, nose and lips, and a pretty sweet headache. Thank goodness for helmets.... how are we all still alive, I never wore a helmet when I was younger? I love you buddy, I am so proud of you and so glad you were able to get over your fear of riding a bike. I love to watch you do new things!!

Good Luck Net!

2008-07-09T13:39:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to tell you all about what my sister Annette is doing. She has decided to become "Fit and Fabulous!" She has started a blog to help track her progress and help motivate her, also she is started using a new product to aid her in her progress. Check out her new blog, www.fitand fabo3.blogspot.com, she has documented each day of her last week before starting her new diet and she's pretty excited to start, I am so excited for her!

I have a lot of respect and admiration for my sister. She means a lot to me and my family, we are here for you and support you 100%. Love you sisto! Good Luck!

Girl's Night!

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

top row: Carrie, Becky, Brenda
bottom row: Diana, Joanne, Ameila, Marinda

Last night was Girl's Night. We all haven't been out together in so long and really needed to reconnect. We went to dinner at Asian Star and sat and talked and laughed forever. I really forget how much I enjoy my girl friends, each of you are very special to me and have given me fun memories. I may not express it often, but each of you have truly impacted my life in some way and your friendship means the world to me. I love you all and hope we can all be friends for many years to come.

Potter's Pond...and oh ya, 4th of July

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

This last weekend was a blast! Ty and Carrie's family introduced our family and the Gray's, to one of their favorite places to camp, Potter's Pond. It was great, I can see why they love it, it is beautiful . Malik was so addicted to their 50 (kid's motorcycle) and was so confident on it. Corey even took him on a single track ride to see how he would do. He did great until he got into a rut he couldn't pull himself out of and the bike threw him one way and it went the other way. The next morning he woke up with a huge bruise on his butt and thigh and spent most of the morning in the trailer listening to music and nursing his first awesome bruise. Corey was so proud! The rest of the weekend was spent playing games, riding dirt bikes and four wheelers, talking and eating. Good Times!! Thanks Tolman's, Julie, Hall's and Gray's for fun times, we love ya!!

Rhys on the 50 with training wheels

Malik - Showin' the 50 who's boss!

My babies just waking up in our trailer.

Jorie, a little blurry, but stinkin cute.

Palamino Filly.....

2008-06-30T17:54:00.000-07:00

That's right y'all, a Palamino Filly! We have purchased a barely used pop-up trailer from a cute older couple in my sister's ward, and when I say barely used I really mean mint condition and used maybe 15 times in the last ten years. This past weekend was the Filly's maiden voyage to Upper Stillwater Campground just north of Duchesne. What a blast! The spillway from the resevoir was like having a waterfall in camp with us and we lucked out with a spot that we could watch it all day long from out trailer and our site. I was so relaxing, the kids played in the river, in the dirt and road their bikes while Corey and I just enjoyed being with our little family.

Saturday afternoon, Corey's parent's and our friends the Tolman's, came to spend the afternoon and evening with us. Papa and Grandma brought their new toy, the Rhino, for all of us to play around on and take the kids for rides. Ton's of fun, for everyone! Thanks Papa and Grandma! Thanks Tolman's, what loyal friends to drive almost 3 hours to hang with us!

Malik, Rhys, Corey
Jacob, Owen and Ty Tolman
Madi Tolman, Jorie, Brenda

Before we left for home, we hiked up to the lake and played in the water for a bit, chilly.....! We decided that we made a great purchase even if it takes us a little closer to redneck status! I guess you can take us out of Vernal but you can't take Vernal out of us!!!!

Here are a few more pictures of our "princess" who couldn't help but wallow in the dirt all weekend, she is so funny, what a mess!

This is my favorite, Jorie decided she was done waiting for the Rhino to come back so she started off up the road, I started calling to her to come back, she turned after a minute, straightened her back, firmly said "no" with a huge grin and proceeded up the road. She is such a monkey! I wish you could see her expression a little better in this picture, it was pretty funny!

MLS Soccer Camp and a New Bike!

2008-06-30T17:53:00.001-07:00

Malik seriously put a smile on his dad's face this last week! MLS Soccer Camp was the topic of the week. Mal attended camp last week for 3 hours every morning, and loved every minute of it! His coach's were real REAL soccer players, Coach Greg and Coach Eden, from Europe (I think they were Irish possibly). Corey is just about bursting at the seems with excitement that Malik is starting to show interest in things Corey has real passion for.

Which brings us to our next hot topic, Corey and the boys drove to Vernal to order Corey's new bike and pick up Malik's new mountain bike this weekend. Malik has grown so much in the last year that his bike was simply too small for him. He loves to ride his bike and has been asking Corey to take him mountain biking (I know, can you see the small tear coming from Corey's eye) our Daddy's dream! We are going camping this weekend and the boys are already planning when they can go on a ride.

Running away to Aspen

2008-06-29T23:03:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned a few posts ago, Corey and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary this year and to celebrate we ran away last week to Aspen, CO with our good friends Ty and Carrie (who also celebrated their 10 years this year also). We started out our trip right, or at lest the guys did, Corey and Ty lucked out and were able to golf on one of the most amazing private courses for free and Carrie and I went to the spa for one of the worst facials I have ever had!! After our disappointment, Carrie and I drove into Aspen to get checked in and found that Corey had left me a letter and flowers, as I read my sweet letter, I completely forgot about how disappointing our trip had started and sat in my room sobbing as I read Corey's letter to me. If I ever had had any doubts about us, (which I didn't) it would have been all cleared up, I truly believe I fell in love all over again.

Then, to make a long story short, the rest of our weekend was filled with hiking (at a 15-35% grade for 4 miles!), biking (I love going down... hill....stop it!!!), snowball fights (yes in June, at 12,500 feet at the end of our hike), GREAT food (not including the "big ass pickle" which I intend to try next time), movies (a little uncomfortable sitting next to a 10 year old during the Love Guru) , shopping (when we can't really afford anything in the stores, unless it's the "hand towel" Carrie bought), ice cream (we never went back for the other flavors!), awesome breakfasts in a bar (only in Aspen), hand stand contests (ssshhhhh!), and much more that you may just have had to be there for!

Thanks Tolman's for celebrating 10 years with us, here's to 10 more!!!!

(pictures to come....right Carrie?)

6 NEW POSTS

2008-06-17T15:02:00.000-07:00

Stay with me everyone, I am really behind on all the things I wanted to write about, so keep going to see what we have been up to in our crazy world, that's right, there are 6 NEW POSTS to follow!

Stupid Woman!!!!

2008-06-17T13:50:00.000-07:00

OK, don't be scared, I'm really not just posting pictures of me in my swim suit to show how sexy I am, there is a pretty stupid story behind it.

This past weekend was pretty unusual in that Corey was in Spokane and the kids spent the weekend playing with grandma and papa in Vernal which left me with Friday night and Saturday all to myself. Here's the event timeline of my Friday night...
7-8:30pm - Sushi with Lindsey (Yummy!!)
8:30-10pm - Shopping at the Mall (Found super cute board shorts!)
10pm - Arrived home, locked doors, started getting ready for bed
10:15pm - Amy text me and asked me to come next door and sit in the hot tub.
10:20pm - Left house out front door, locked door behind me, thinking I would come in through garage.
10:25pm-12am - Chilled with Amy in the hot tub (super relaxing!!!)
12:05am - Returned home to find that I had locked myself out of the house (remember, Corey is in Spokane, all the keys to our house are in the house)
12:05-12:15am - Began popping out window screens in the hope that I had left a window on the ground level open..... no luck..... but, every window on the 2nd level was unlocked and open!!!
12:15am - Grabbed Amy to help "stupid woman" figure out a plan.
12:20am - Pushed the new pop up camper under the playroom window and put ladder on top (I know not the most safe option , but what else was I going to do?)
12:22am - Climbed ladder, stood on "Do not sit or stand above this level"
12:23am - Popped out screen and hoisted myself into window, unfortunately, my hip bones got stuck on the window casing and I had to swing my legs to tip myself into the room (ouch)(can you just see my big ol' but hanging out of the second story window? Not a pretty scene, gratefully I don't have a picture of this!)
12:23am - Carrie, looks out her window to see me hanging out the window and thinks to herself, "What is she doing?" Then she goes back to bed. (Apparently I have to be doing something really bizarre for Carrie to be worried.)
12:25am - I'm in!!!!
12:27am - Amy and I are laughing so hard that the neighbors slam their bedroom window shut. (Once again, I guess I have to be doing something really odd before anyone is worried!)

Moral of the story: Is your house as safe as you think it is if two chicks in their swim suits can break in in the middle of the night and no one thinks it's odd?

Daddy's Day - 3 days early

2008-06-17T13:41:00.000-07:00

Due to an Enloe's guy trip and kid's spending the weekend with grandma and papa, we did Father's Day three days early this year. The kids ordered a HUGE Daddy's day golf cookie and got Corey a new flip waffle maker. They were so cute waiting for daddy to come home from work to surprise him and take him to IHOP for dinner (their favorite place), before we had to rush him to the airport to play in a golf tournament with Eric and Parker in Spokane. I should have thought 5 minutes ahead and took a picture before we dug into the delicious cookie, oh well. Corey is such a great dad, his children adore him and he always has time to make them feel special. Happy Daddy's Day!!

June 11, 1998 - 10 Years

2008-06-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

I can't let our anniversary go by without letting the world know how much I love my husband. 10 years ago Corey and I were young, happy, in love and utterly smitten, and today I am happy to say I still feel all these things (young is slowly slipping away but I haven't lost it quite yet.) This picture is my favorite of hundreds taken the day we got married, he still makes me this happy and I hope I will always look at him with this kind of admiration.

Corey, thank you for all you have given me; eternity, our children, love, endless happiness, belonging, support, and encouragement, just to name a few. I love that I still get excited to see you at the end of the day and that you never fail to single me out when you come home and make me feel as if I'm the only one in the room (what an example for your children). You are my hero, my husband, my eternal companion, and my very best friend. I can honestly say I love you more every day, for different reasons and in different ways. Love Always, BE

Off to the Hogel Zoo!

2008-06-17T13:09:00.000-07:00

Pictured L to R - Owen, Carrie, Madi, Jacob, Malik, Jorie (stroller), Rhys, Lexi( behind Rhys), Sami (white shirt), Becky (behind Sami), Brenda

In an effort to keep the kids entertained and the mama's sane, we, Carrie and I, bought a family pass to the zoo for he year and went for the first time last week with Becky and two of her three girls, (we missed you Kenzie). We haven't been for a year or so and Jorie has never been. She love the monkeys and can say it quite well. The elephants freaked her out a bit, but she love the train ride. Malik and Rhys' favorite was the white alligator, the monkeys and the bird show. Can't wait to go again, let us know if you want to come with us!

Shock Game in Boise

2008-06-17T13:01:00.000-07:00

What a fun weekend with our Spokane cousins/aunts/uncles/papa and grandma! This is the second year we have met Eric and Shar's family in Boise for a fun weekend including a Shock game (Eric is part owner of the Spokane Shock, an indoor arena football team). It was a blast! Initially we had planned to hit the water part but the weather was a little on the chilly side for swimming so we went to the opening weekend of Kung Fu Panda instead. It was super funny and the kids loved it. Thanks Eric for the tickets and the fam for another fun memory!

Goodbye Liberty!

2008-06-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

It's the end of first grade at Liberty Elementary and soon a new beginning at McMillan Elementary in second grade for Malik. Malik loved his teacher Mrs. Flower, she was great and Malik learned a ton! In the fall we are changing elementary schools which has kind of been an adjustment for Malik mainly because he didn't want to leave his friends, but since he was in a first/second split class this year he wouldn't be in the same class with his good friend Connor again next year (he is a year older than Malik). He is now much more excited about ohis new adventure next year in Miss Bryant's second grade class at McMillan! See you there Madi and Easton!

Wacky Mohawks!!!!!

2008-06-02T12:10:00.000-07:00

What started out a a nice normal haircuts turned into wacky mohawk's last night. Rhys decided he wanted a mohawk and Malik jumped on that bandwagon as fast as he could. I though it was an OK way to welcome summer, I can't think of a better time to let them. Wacky Boys, I Love you! (Shar, I can't decide what is worse, mohawk or scroungy, it might be a tie)

Schools Out For Summer (you know you're singing the song in you head)

2008-05-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

Malik is so funny. I woke him up this morning and said, "It's your last day of school!" His reply was, "No, I don't want it to be the last day, I love school!" I quickly answered with a grin "Oh good, cuz you have 10 years left!" I love that he loves school, I hope he keeps that attitude. It has been so fun to watch my oldest grow up and find his person. He makes me proud.

My Rhysie, Fact or Fiction?

2008-05-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

Rhys is at a hard age for me right now but he is so funny sometimes. I have to tell one of his most recent stories. Rhys has a super imagination, and I wonder sometimes if he really believes his stories.

Last night about 3ish, Rhys came into our room crying hysterically. When I got him to calm down enough to tell me what was wrong he said, "My shoulder hit my head really hard!" At this point I usually think he is sleep talking, like he, Malik and Corey do quite often. Then this morning at breakfast an even better story was told...
Me - "What happened to your head?" (Scratches on his forehead, top right side in picture)
Rhys - "Member, last night?"
Me - "When last night, I don't remember?"
Rhys - "Member when I came in your room last night after I fell off my bed?"
Me - "No, I didn't know you fell off your bed, I thought your shoulder hit your head."
Rhys - "Mom, that's wacky."
Me - "How did you fall off your bed?"
Rhys (totally straight faced) - "Well the wind was blowing so hard I couldn't hold on and it blew me right off my bed onto the floor on my toy and I banged my head."
Me - "Wow!"

I really think that he believes there was a pretty stiff breeze in his room last night and the fan wasn't even on. Silly Kid!!

Rhys' Preschool Program

2008-05-20T21:13:00.000-07:00

Rhys had his end of year program and art show today for the parents. He was so cute, they performed some of their favorite songs that including you are my sunshine in sign language. Then, at the end they made the parents stand up and do the kids favorite song with them, The Freeze, we had a blast dancing and freezing. Rhys pulle me around the room showing me all his fun art from the year and had me take a picture with him and his teachers, Miss Jenn, Miss Mullet and Miss Connie. We also took the opportunity to takes pictures with our good friend Colton and Rhys' "girlfriend" Audrey. Preschool has been great for Rhys this year, he has learned ton and can't wait to be back for one more year before kindergarten!

One LUCKY MOTHER....

2008-05-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

That's right, I am one lucky mother! Corey and the kids were so sweet to me on Mother Day. My day started with breakfast in bed, then, you may want to sit down for this one, I was able to shower and get ready for the day ALL BY MYSELF! As if this wasn't already enough, my cute family made me the BEST dinner and we all sat down and ate at my my mother's day present, my new table. Malik made me a cute sign out of scrabble letters wishing me happy mothers day and set them next to my place at dinner, he is so cute! So you're saying to yourself, "What a lucky mother," yup, because after dinner, Corey cleaned the whole kitchen (keep in mind he used every dish in the house for his awesome dinner). I can't imagine not being a mother, I love you guys! Thanks for making my day so special and relaxing. Corey, thanks for being such a great example to our boys. Man, I am one LUCKY MOTHER....

Blog Help

2008-05-12T13:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I am still a bit of a blog beginner, so I have some questions I hope someone can answer. How do I spice up my header, I can't find any sites that I can do this with. I realize you can change the size, color and font right in you settings but I WANT MORE!! Anyone savvy enough to help?

Rock on.....

2008-05-07T08:40:00.000-07:00

Malik started guitar lessons just over a month ago and is loving it. I was listening to him practice last night and was so impressed..... he sounds great! He got to choose his first song to start learning, Malik chose to learn Star Wars, it's pretty cute. I am so proud of his determination and his effort he has put into learning how o play the guitar. Great job buddy, ROCK ON.....

MINE ALL MINE!!!

2008-05-07T08:35:00.000-07:00

I know it seems trivial but I finally have my very own craft room!!! I can't even express the happiness I have!! I don't have to put away my projects I can just keep them out until they are finished and I don't have to listen to Corey gripe about my stuff always being in our bedroom. Thanks honey for working so hard to get it done for me, now his next project is to finish the rest of the basement!!!

That's my Girl!

2008-05-07T08:32:00.000-07:00

OK, I just need to post some pretty funny pictures of my baby, she is so fun!

Daddy Update...

2008-04-25T10:16:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd let you know how Corey's trip ended. Yes, he returned in one piece, on the other had, he had a pretty nasty wreck that broke his handle bars in half! Crazy I know, Ty said that in all the years he has been riding he has never seen that happen. Supposedly it's pretty difficult to do. But don't worry, it didn't quite ruin their trip, he headed straight to Moab to get it fixed and a bill or two later he was back riding. They had a great time, thanks for your prayers!!!

Pray for our Daddy!

2008-04-18T07:26:00.001-07:00

By the headline, it may sound like there is something wrong with our Daddy.......well there is! Corey has recently morphed into somewhat of a redneck. His "life partner" (my affectionate term for his best friend who I think he sometimes prefers over me) Ty, has talked Corey into buying a dirt bike. Now, many a mancation is planned without "mothers" (their affectionate term for Carrie, Ty's wife, and me) although seeing their ladies on a dirt bike just might be one of the hottest things they can think of. So, this weekend is the maiden voyage of the season and they are off to Moab for their first dirt bike trip. After a brief conversation with Corey last night, I ask for your prayers that our Daddy will come home in one piece. In his own words "I didn't have breaks for a bit, but luckily it was before we started down the canyon." Are you serious!!!!!

Tagged!!!

2008-04-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

Thanks Joanne!
-Who do you Love? Corey, Malik, Rhys, Jorie, my Family and in law Family, Friends, the list goes on and on!
-How long have you been married? 10 whole years in June
-How long did you date? Date, whats that....
-Where did he propose? The first or second time? First, he carried around he ring in his pocket all day, then after a soccer game he gave it to me, I can't even remember if he actually asked me. Second, much better than the first, he sneekily got the ring back and took me on the mountain in a field of perfect snow and got down on his knee and asked me.
-Who is taller? Corey, by a long ways.
-Who is smarter? Silly question, he might think he is but I know better.
-Who does the laundry? Mostly me, unless he wants to go to bed and the pile on the bed is in his way.
-Who pays the bills? I strategically got that job taken away years ago!
-Who mows the lawn? I have never mowed the lawn. Corey actually enjoys it!!
-Who cooks dinner? Me 50% Corey 50%
-Who drives? I would rather have him drive than I can tell him where to go!
-I now tag!! Leslie, Mandy, Shar, Aria, Shaylah and Kyndi

Big Girl Bed!

2008-04-09T07:59:00.000-07:00

1 white baby crib=FREE
1 new big girl bed and matress=$139.00
Keeping baby confined for nap and nightime=PRICELESS

So a few months ago, Malik and Rhys broke Jorie's bed by standing on the outside rail while they were playing with her. Corey thought he fixed it but come to find out Jorie herself can push the rails apart an d pull out the bars. Then, Sunday night it finally died when the lever that you use to lift the side rail up was broken off. (it's has been a great crib and much appreciated handmedown from Colette, used for 3 kids) With Jorie only being 15-16 months old we needed a new bed. But first, I tried a few other options that didn't work. Pushing the crib against the wall, (not the safest option), crib mattress on floor, (she napped fine but she spent the night on the floor since she couldn't stay in the mattress) and finally her new big girl bed that adjusts and gets longer as she grows. She loves it and has slept her first night all the way through on it (not on the floor). Send me good juju that this works!!!

A 7 year old!!!!

2008-04-01T09:12:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe we have have a 7 year old. (well, almost...) Malik's cousins Jackson and Hayden came to visit last week so we had the perfect time to have his birthday party even though his actual birthday isn't until April 11th. Malik choose a Star Wars party and I spent most of the night before the party making a blue light saber cake (ya, I was pretty impressed with myself too!!). Unfortunatly, Malik had been sick for a few days before the party. He went inside to blow his nose while the other kids were rinding bikes and started to feel bad again. I went in a few minutes later and he was asleep on the couch. Who falls asleep during their own birthday party!!! Luckily, he's feeling better now and really did have a great time at his party.

Easter Sunday

2008-04-01T09:10:00.001-07:00

OK, let's be honest.... could they be any more cute?

Neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt

2008-04-01T08:04:00.000-07:00

There are so many kids in our neighborhood that we have a huge Easter Egg Hunt in the circle each year. The kids love it. This year was fun because Jorie started to understand the concept. Rhys ran around like a mad man and of course, Grace (Malik) couldn't go the whole hour with out going man down and dumping his whole basket all over the driveway. Silly boy!

Easter

2008-04-01T07:59:00.000-07:00

Ready To Shread!

2008-02-24T10:54:00.001-08:00

I am so proud of my boys!! And truth be told, Corey is a little choked up that his boys finally wanted to go skiing with him. Malik and Rhys started ski school on Saturday at Brighton with their friends Madi and Jacob, they loved it!! Well more specifically... Malik loved it and Rhys faked loving it. Malik did great and wants to go more but Rhys had a death grip on the teacher most of the time, but when I asked him if he had a good time he says he loved it. They are getting so big and brave!!

Playhouse Disney LIVE!

2008-02-11T08:23:00.000-08:00

What a fun day!! One of the sales managers at Corey's hotel gave us tickets to Playhouse Disney LIVE! yesterday. It was so fun! Malik, Rhys and Jorie danced, sang and had a great time seeing Handy Manny, Pooh and Tigger, Little Einsteins and a bunch of other Disney friends. We weren't sure how Jorie would do but she was way cute and couldn't stop dancing!! Malik and Rhys even got to go down on the floor in front of the stage for the end dance party, they loved it!!!

Rhys is 4!!!

2008-01-29T21:20:00.000-08:00

Rhys also had a birthday this month. He was so cute deciding who he wanted to come to his birthday party and what kind of a party he wanted to have. He finally decided on a jungle animal party, each kid had a different jungle animal hat and he had the cake lady put his jungle animals on his cake. He had a great time, I can't believe he is so big!!

2008-01-29T21:17:00.001-08:00

Put it right here Mama...

Jorie's First Birthday

2008-01-29T21:11:00.000-08:00

I hardly seems like a year has gone by since Jorie joined our family, but it has!! On Christmas day, after all the hoopla we had a little birthday party for Princess Jorie complete with her own cake. She was so funny! At first she didn't want to di in but with a little help from Mom she dug in and had a blast!!

Yes we have arrived!!!

2008-01-29T20:48:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone! We are blogger virgins and our good friends Mandy and Gavin have corrupted us once again and introduced us to a whole new world and a whole new way to keep everyone we love up to date on our family. Hope you enjoy!!!