A happy day indeed...

So yesterday was a happy big 5. Sean called home around noon and asked what we should do for the night so I figured that he TOTALLY forgot about our anniversary (and honestly I don't think I would have gotten mad with everything on his mind lately). Well about 5 minutes into the conversation he said "oh my gosh I can't even believe I forgot, I am so sorry.." Well, I thought he would just leave work early and head to the mall, but he was just pulling my chain. He got home around 5 and I had his presents and balloons on the table and then he went into the garage (on the shelves) and pulled a huge package down. He is so sneaky!! He didn't forget at all! He gave me a beautiful picture of the Bountiful Temple.. where we were married. I love it. The picture doesn't really do it justice.

Anyway, I gave him new scriptures, the big one's that are separate. We had his name engraved on the front and then on the back inside cover the girl engraved "I Love you" I thought it was sweet and told him it was just in case he forgot! I also got him some BYU plates and bowls and some other misc. things. Afterwards, we headed out to dinner and a movie, but we only made it to dinner before it was too late. We went to Ruby's Steakhouse-- pretty good-- and then headed home. It was a fun evening out.

Tonight was our ward Halloween party and Chili cook-off. It's amazing how many people come. The kids had fun. They get to trick or treat to each door in the church. All the doors are decorated so cute and the young women and young men usually man the doors. I think they are set with candy and it isn't even officially Halloween. Yikes!! It's a dentist's dream I tell ya! Tayler decided to go as Belle (however I talked her out of the wig tonight thinking it would get all over in the food) and she was okay with it- THANKFULLY. Rylee went as a cute little lady bug. I think Halloween night she will use the TIGGER costume. I didn't get a picture of Rylee, but here is Princess Belle herself.

Now it is time for nighty night!

Happy Anniversary!

So today is the big 5 year mark! I feel blessed to be married to such a great man. I am grateful for all that he puts up with (and it's a lot)!! He has been there with me through good times and the not so good times. I am grateful to have him as my companion. Thanks for 5 good years babe! It's only the tip of the ice berg!

Things have been good here! Tuesday I had a complete meltdown, but other than that everything is great. I stopped taking my medication because I had to take care of my kids for a few hours during the morning and then at night while Sean was gone so I figured I best not be on a narcotic to do so. Well by the end of the night I was in so much pain that I lost it. Poor Sean! He didn't know what was wrong, but was so nice and understanding. He did a great job as the "stay at home dad." I am so grateful that he was able to take off so much time (even thought he is SO behind at work now). I don't know what I would have done if he hadn't been able too. He did all the:

• cooking
• vacuuming
• cleaning up messes
• playing with the kids non-stop
• sweeping
• some laundry
• folding clothes
• brushing teeth
• fetching for me the things I needed

etc. It was nice to sleep and not worry that they were at someone else's house being a burden.

Anyway, my throat is still killing me, but such is life. I actually went into work yesterday. It was a day with only 3 cases so I thought I would try it out. It went well and it was so nice to be out in fresh air after 1 week, but it zapped all of my energy so I was tired when I got home and apparently not the nicest mom because Tayler told me I was mean. I am trying harder! :)

I hope that you all have a weekend full of fun, combined with Halloween parties and pumpkin carving! We have our Ward Party tomorrow night so we will see what the kids costumes end up as?! Loves to all!

Update..

I feel GrEaT!!!
I can't believe it is done and over with and I have been up and about. After surgery we got home around 2:30 and I went straight to bed. I didn't feel bad, I was just super tired with all the drugs in my body. The procedure went well and they actually had to take out my adnoids as well since they were still intact.

Thursday night I got up and tried to help Sean feed the kids before his class, but then the light-headedness set in. After getting the anti-nausea pills everything went much better. I can't wait to not take the Loritab also. I hate how it makes me feel tired and groggy.

Friday I just laid around and Sean played with the kids. He took them on a picnic for lunch and then brought them home for naps.

Yesterday Sean went to the BYU game so my mom came up to help (I actually didn't know she was coming, so it was a happy surprise). My kids were over at a friends house, but when Mom got here we went and picked them up and then she helped me with everything (putting them down for naps, feeding them, etc). It was nice to lay on the couch and not get up to do much. I keep thinking that I can do everything like normal, which I can to a point, but then my body says "enough already."

Today was the Primary Program at Church so I got the girls up and ready along with myself. Sean came home about 8:40 to help me carry them over to the Church. The program was cute and it was so fun to see little Tayler participating. I remember thinking how crazy it would be when she would be old enough to be up there and now she is. Time really does fly.

That is the update so far. I am grateful that everything has gone as well as it has. I have heard horror stories so I'm glad it is all okay and over with.

Splish Splash

So yesterday after dinner I decided to take the kids swimming at the Aquatic Center. It is such a great place, and so close and convienent, that we decided to make use of our "yearly pass" and go. The best part about it is the 2 for 1 deal.. it's fun for the kids and it totally and completely wears them out for bedtime! I actually took their p.j.'s to change them into since it was bitter cold outside and then it would be an easy transfer to bed. They both were a little hungry when we got home around 8:30 so they had some applesauce and crackers and then it was nighty night! They were both sound asleep and snoring in less than 5 minutes! We had a great time. Rylee was a little unsure at first, but then she loved it and pitched a fit when it was time to get out. Next time I will take my camera.

Today I had to go into the hospital to pre-register and take a pregnancy test before my surgery tomorrow. I think we are A-okay in that area. It isn't until 9:15 a.m. so we get to sleep in. Sean will be home tonight (after Church interviews) and then he doesn't have to go back to work until next Thursday.

So Rylee's new thing is sleepwalking. I have to shut her door so that she doesn't end up anywhere crazy. She usually will get out of bed and fall back asleep RIGHT by the door so that when you try and open it-- there she is. She is crazy. This is her latest place to sleep. The other morning I found her on the 4th stair up and the time before that right on the top of the stairs landing.

Looks comfortable right?? Silly girl!!

Tayler is such a great big sister. She is SO nice and sweet to Rylee and really doesn't get jealous of anything Rylee has or does. She is such a big helper too! I love this girl!

Can you believe how long her hair is getting and how curly it is. She is a cutie pie!!

They love playing together and it is so fun that Rylee is at the age that she can play. I love it!! It warms my heart.

Well I may not blog again for a few days.. so happy days everyone! Loves and Hugs!

The day is approaching..

So this coming Thursday morning I am scheduled to have a Tonsilectomy!! Scary huh? They say it is a pretty bad recovery (when you are older) so we'll see. Luckily Sean is taking a full week off to help me and take care of my cutie pies.

Yikes.. I am a little nervous, but I'm sure it will be fine and it will be so nice to have them out! They are HUGE and always make me feel like I can't breath very well, so all in all it will be a good thing.

So last Thursday I totally missed Grey's Anatomy (and was NOT happy about it at all)-- Sean can attest to that. Well we double recorded it on TiVo again and then Friday it recorded for some reason. (I am so glad they aired the same episode again). Needless to say, then I was happy! Loved the episode, can't wait for more. Am I totally addicted?? YES!! Pathetic I know.

Sean has been working on two 20 page papers that are due tonight and Thursday night for class. He also will fly out tonight after class to St. George for a meeting tomorrow morning and then will fly home. So from work he will go straight to class and then straight to the airport. His life is so crazy!! I don't know how he does it and I feel so helpless because I can't help him with anything.. except keeping the kids quiet (which I guess is no small task, making him dinner, and making sure clean clothes are available.

His life is pure Stress and Chaos, but somehow he keeps a positive outlook and doesn't get too stressed, although he is getting pretty close. Tomorrow night as soon as he gets home he has Bishopric interviews all night. Anyway, all I meant from this is how grateful I am for him! He is such a wonderful person. I think while I am laid up in bed he will enjoy a break with the kids. I hope his work doesn't bother him too much!!

Anyway, hope that you are all doing well and are happy and healthy. Take care my friends and family!!

Such fun!

Sean and I had such a fun afternoon/night yesterday. For his birthday I reserved a condo up in Park City so that we could have just a little get away. My mom had UEA this week (Thurs. and Fri.) and didn't have to work so she kindly came up to watch my little one's. THANKS MOM!!!

I picked Sean up from work and we headed up to Park City. The drive was beautiful and the weather was sunny and perfect. We checked in and our Condo was pretty nice. (It was only a few yards from the outlets.. literally!) HOWEVER I didn't even shop. How is that for self control? It was Sean's birthday night so I stayed away. I'll have to go up another day with my kids.

After check-in we changed our clothes, and went up to the Alpine Slide. They have a new ride called the Alpine Coaster, but it was temporarily down so we did the slide instead. It was a blast. The lines were incredibly long and we didn't get to race each other, but it was fun still. Afterwards we went to Main Street Pizza & Noodle for dinner and to warm our chilled bones (well mine at least) and then hit the Chocolate Factory down the road afterwards for some dessert. After dinner we were both tired so we went and relaxed at the condo. It was great fun!! I love hanging out with Sean and actually getting to see him. It was lovely!!

New Drapes.. finally

Happy Birthday to me! This was my present from Sean and I love them!! I can't wait to hang the big clock I will make at a Super Saturday this week. I will put it right above the window on the big wall! Then the room will be complete.

Last night after school Sean came home and hung them up for me. It's so fun!! They totally make it feel more warm and friendly and definitely complete the room. Now I want them on my bedroom windows too. They are a bit costly after you buy the rod and everything, but totally worth it! Thanks babe!

I went back to Bed, Bath and Beyond this morning to get the tie backs today. That will be our next project along with the other valance (which is the same design and color) to go on the little window at the bottom of the stairs. Anyway, it's coming along!

Then we will hang up my kitchen curtains too, (which I love) as well! So many things to do :)

Pictures from Bowling

My great sis sent me these pictures from our day of bowling. What fun we had! Even though
Rylee and Alyssa didn't bowl they loved running all around the bowling alley.

Sean and little R

Hooray for Tay! She was so proud of herself.

Love this one! Meg was so proud of Tayler or vise-versa. Cute girls!! They would give each other big hugs after each turn. What support on their lane.. ours was a different story :)

Jessica chokes, Steve laughs, Sean just acts proud.. I'm sure this is when Sean beat me in the last frame. Hee Hee :)

Rylee was proud as well!

Tay awaits the # of pins to be knocked down.... such suspense!

Needless to say we will do that again sometime in the near future. I'm not sure why we haven't done it for so long. It will be a great FHE activity too!

I finished a sign that is going in the girls room. It says "Princess, daughter of a Heavenly King" I loved the saying when I saw it at the quilted bear (while shopping with my great pal Carolyn). I took a picture, but it doesn't show up very well. I painted the board light purple and the writing is in Pink with a crown (in a grayish) color behind. It's cute! Now I have to finish my Splish Splash board (with pegs) for the bathroom and my calendar-- STILL!! Someday soon since my nice brother-in-law cut the wood for me.

Wonderful Weekend

So I loved having my sister, brother in law, and all the kiddies here for the weekend! We had so much fun. They arrived Thurs. night a little before 8:30 p.m. The kids were so excited to see each other (in fact I didn't know how much longer Tayler was going to be able to hold out Thursday afternoon!) We got beds situated and then got kids in their beds. Steve and Sean watched the Utah vs. TCU game and then Jen and I were antsy to watch Grey's Anatomy.

Friday we woke up and made a big breakfast (actually Sean made it for everyone, even on his birthday-- he took the day off). It was so tasty! Then we went Bowling and out to lunch. The kids loved bowling. Tayler, Emmy, and Meg had their own lane with the bumpers up and actually did really well. They did their own thing while the 4 adults played as well AND by some miracle of miracles, Sean beat me :) (just kidding babe! You played a good game). He did it in the very last frame. I guess since it was his birthday I was okay letting him take 2nd. We haven't been bowling forever so it was fun. I will post some pictures of us bowling as soon as Jen send them to me.

Sean chose KFC for lunch. Afterwards we came home and some went down for naps and others just played X-box or had quiet time. Friday night, Sean signed us up to do Sealings so we went to our Ward Temple Night and Jen and Steve offered to keep the kids. THANK YOU!!!!!

Rylee reading her new favorite book with Uncle Steve

I felt sooo bad leaving them. Sorry!!!! It was POURING rain and it actually took longer than I thought so we didn't get home until after 9. We stopped at the PIE Pizzeria and brought home dinner for the adults. The little kids had Jen's yummy grilled cheese sandwiches. Emmy made brownies for Sean's birthday treat, so we had brownies, ice cream and hot fudge. Thank Em!

Daddy and his girls with his birthday dessert

So about 4 a.m. Sat. morning, I had this feeling that I needed to go and find Rylee. When I checked her bed she was gone so I knew she had wondered off somewhere (which was a first). I checked all over and finally found her right on the edge of the stairs sound asleep. She must have been sleep walking because she didn't come into my room. I was so glad that I found her because I think she would have rolled down the steep staircase at any wrong move.

Saturday, Steve went and played with his brother Glen and had a great time and Sean went to the BYU vs. San Diego State, so Jen and I took the kids and met Mom at Kohls and did
a little shopping. It was fun. Then we went out to Mom's house to help her clean up her basement which had flooded again! We did that and visited while the kids played. She also made a yummy lunch.

Mom, Meg and Alyssa

We headed out about 6:00 to get the kids home, bathed, fed, and tucked into bed since we had 9:00 church. We did that and then went to meet Jen's friend, Jen Flinders from Las Vegas, at Applebee's in Bountiful. It was fun. I don't think I have laughed that hard in a long, long time. We ate a little dinner and then had dessert, but stayed there for a little over 2 hours. It was a nice break too. We got home around midnight so we went straight to bed.

Sunday we made it to Church on time (with 5 minutes to spare even)! It was fun to see Sean up on the stand. He had to bear his testimony and did a great job. He will really be excellent at his new calling. After Sacrament we left so that Jen and Steve could get their things packed up and eat lunch.

Cute cousins- Emmy, Alyssa, Rylee, Tayler and Meg

They left about 12:30 and I was sad to see them go. It was so nice to have them here. I wish they lived closer. They did make it home safe and sound so I am glad. I am sure it was nice to be back in their own beds (not that air mattresses aren't comfy :) ) Just kidding!! Can't wait for Thanksgiving to see them again!

At 1:00 the girls and I headed to another Sacrament Meeting. Shelly and Mike blessed Emma yesterday so we went to their Church. Rylee fell asleep the minute we started singing the opening hymn. She was a tired baby! Afterwards they had a luncheon at their house so we went and hung out for the afternoon (since I knew Sean would be gone all afternoon). He came about 4:45 and finally was able to eat. We visited a little longer and then came home. Rylee and Tay actually went to bed by 8:30 and were sound asleep within minutes.

Hope that everyone had a great weekend as well. Loves to all!!!

Happy Birthday Baby!

So today is my hubby's birthday and I just have to express just how much I love him. He is the best thing that happened to me and I am grateful to have him in my life. He is such a wonderful father and companion. He helps me in so many ways. I just love being around him. He is the BEST!!! Happy birthday babe!

My sis, Jen, and bro-in-law, Steve, and their kiddies came into town yesterday. We were so excited to see them! Today we went bowling and out to lunch (pictures to follow). We've had a good time so far. Tonight Sean signed us up to do Sealings so we are going to go and do that for a while and then come home and play some more.

Hope everyone is having a great Friday!

Rainy again.. I LOVE it

I am so glad that I mowed our lawn yesterday because it is rainy again today.

So I have to say that my little girls had to have come just for me. All those who know me- also know that I love to sleep.

Well I have been having troubles getting to sleep because of my leg, and so I typically some night don't go to sleep until 2 a.m. or so (some night are better). Anyway, this morning I woke up at 9:00 (after going to bed SUPER late) and I looked outside my door and there is Rylee just laying in the hall with her blanket on her starring up at the ceiling (Tayler wasn't awake yet). She was so quiet that I didn't hear her and when I called her name she came right in and snuggled. Tayler use to do that as well. They are so quiet I don't understand it. If Tayler would see us asleep Sat. morning (which is rare) she would just lay quietly until one of us woke up. Isn't that crazy? They really are my little angels!

So yesterday on Kendi's blog she had this cute getting to know you theme where here 3 year old answered some questions so I thought I would try it with Tay. Here are her responses (and I didn't help her at ALL)

1. Something I do well – “Play with Rylee”
2. Something I'd like to improve on – “go swimming” (? I guess being able to swim or maybe just that I will take her swimming)
3. My favorite food – “Happy Meal”
4. Three words that best describe me – “happy”
5. My happiest moment – “going to Disneyland”
6. The most important thing in my life now – “Loving my mom” (I guess she knows I need it)
7. My favorite movie – “Sleeping Beauty”
8. My favorite book – “Snowman book”
9. My favorite person in the whole world – “Daddy”
10. Instead of going to school, I wish I could – “but Mom, I love preschool” (so I guess nowhere)
11. My favorite place to go – “Lagoon”
12. My favorite thing to draw –“Mommy, Daddy, her and Rylee” (so true!)
13. Something I want for Christmas - “An Analese doll”
14. My favorite color is – “Blue”
15. At recess, I like to play – “on the swings”
16. When it's raining, I like to – “stay inside”
17. My favorite animal is - "Cow” (seriously??)

I just have to say I really really do love my children sooo much! Sean really is Tayler's favorite person in the whole world so that wasn't surprising and it really makes me happy when she says that. I love to see her bond with her daddy grow. I had a special bond with my Dad and it helped me through a lot of things.

Happy Wednesday everyone! I can't wait to see my Sis tomorrow!!!! Hooray she is coming. Can't wait!!!!!!

Pumpkin Patch

Beginning October 9th, Day Farms in Layton will open a pumpkin patch and hay ride to the general public. The cost is $4.00 per person, and includes a pumpkin. Children under 1 are free.

The hay ride event will take place on Mondays , Wednesdays , and Fridays from 4-7, and on Saturday from 1-7, through October 30th.

Just thought I would let those in Utah know in case you are interested. It sounds like fun for kids.

Have a great day!

Weekend Getaway

I first have to say how much I love Conference weekend. Not because we don't have to go to Church , but because I love to listen and feel the Spirit. I can't wait to finish watching all the sessions.

This weekend up at Bear River Lodge was awesome. The weather was PERFECT! Seriously, it couldn't have been any better. We didn't end up leaving until 7:00 Friday evening because Sean was held up at work and then remembered that he had a quiz due for school that needed to be submitted by 12 midnight that night so he did it quickly. We made it up there around 9:30 after we stopped for dinner. The lodge/cabin was great. Yesterday we went four wheelin' all day. Rylee came with us in the morning and then went down for a nap in the afternoon and Kirsten's brother and fiance were there so they said they would watch her if she woke up. It was so much fun and Tayler has a blast. I wasn't sure how much she would like it, but she LOVED every minute of it. She was such a great sport. She kept telling Sean to go faster and laughing the whole day. The morning trails we went on her pretty groomed so it wasn't to bumpy for Rylee. Little Rylee hated her helmet, but loved riding on the 4 wheeler. She fell sound asleep after about 15 minutes of riding (I'm not sure how you do that??). We saw deer on the trails, but nothing else. Anyway, it was a great time and so nice to get away.
Everyone had a meal they were in charge of, so that was nice too. We ate really good!! Last night the guys headed down to Evanston to Priesthood session and got home about 8:30. We ate dinner and then sat around and talked. There were 5 couples total. Luckily we got one of the bedrooms which made it nice for sleeping.

Friday this was my project for the day!

Before


After
Ahhh, a little better. Now you can actually walk into the room.
I decided to leave the crib up so that little one's have a place to sleep when I tend them. That way I don't have to set up and take down the pack-n-play every time. Now I just need to figure out how to decorate it and get some more rubbermaids for everything. Man we have a lot of toys.

I hope that everyone had a fabulous weekend as well!!

We're Off to Play

We are going to Bear River Lodge this weekend to play. We are taking our kids and have a cabin with Pratts, Shultz', and the Detricks. It should be fun!! We all rented four wheelers for the day tomorrow so I hope the girls love it. It will be a little nippy since it is in the Uintahs, but I am hoping there isn't snow up there anymore because of how warm the weather has been here. We will take lots of warm stuff anyways!

Sean actually took me to this place 4 years ago for my birthday and we left little Tay (who was 6 weeks at the time) with his Sister. We had a great time then so I hope it's just as nice this time. I love to get away. We have of course Tivo'ed General Conference to watch all day Sunday and Sean and the guys will go to Priesthood Session tomorrow night either in Kamas or Evanston.

I hope that everyone has a great weekend as well. Loves and Hugs!!

Let the Good Times Roll..

So yesterday was a fun and eventful day. I love my family & friends. Thank you SOOO much for all the birthday wishes, phone calls, cards, gifts, comments on the blog, etc. You guys are great.

When I woke up and opened my blinds I found my porch and yard decorated. My cute neighbor did it all. She also bought 30 balloons, but I didn't get a picture of those. Sadly, at 6:30 p.m. when we were leaving to dinner the sprinklers came on (because the power had gone off so it reset the times..) I was so sad. The sign was destroyed! I am glad that it lasted as long as it did for Sean to see it.

Anyway, it was a fun day. A lot of friends brought the sweetest gifts. After I took Tayler to preschool at 1:00, my friend took me out to lunch. We went to Chili's and it was yummy! She has a little boy a little bit younger than Rylee so they played together. Rylee was so tired at the end so she came right home and took a nap.

I went and picked Tay up from preschool and she wanted to take a nap too, so she slept for 3 hours. It was nice! I cleaned up a little, went and got Happy Meals for the girls dinner, and then got ready to go to dinner with my cute hubby!

He brought me home yummy chocolates from Mrs. Cavanaugh's and is letting me pick out the curtains I want. I didn't realize how expensive the nice ones are, but I am excited! Last night for dinner he took me to Kobe's in Ogden. It is like Tepanayki or Benihanas (sp?), but I think it is WAY better! I loved it. We came home and ate some caramel apple from Rocky Mountain Chocolate factory and went to sleep. I think I gained about 30 pounds which is fitting so all is well!

It really was a great day and I do appreciate everyone for their kindness and love. XXOXX

The Eve of leaving my 20's

It is really hard to believe that I will be 30 in a few hours.. HOLY SMOKES.. did I just say 30?!????????

I am leaving behind my 20's, but it was a good decade.

• I served a mission,
• met my eternal sweetheart,
• had 2 beautiful little girls,
• and played hard

GOOD TIMES!!!

It's good to know that there are always people older than me though :)

Anyhow, today was a good day. I went to a vinyl party my friend had tonight and she has DARLING things that she has created. I will have to take a picture when I get my things. My sister in law watched my kids so it was a nice break. Her husband is the Bishop in their ward (just around the corner from us) so I think we are going to trade once a week for a few hours just to have a break.

Sean had a Bishopric meeting after school so he is just barely getting home (it's 10:35) and he left this morning at 5:30 a.m. I'm not sure how he does it, but man I'm glad it isn't me!! He definitely has a gift, that's for sure.

I have decided to make the nursery a play room until we have another baby (which may not be for a VERY long time now!). I need projects to help me stay busy and not out spending money. I took every single toy out of Tayler's room and put it in the new "play room." I think I am going to love it! I love that her room is clean and really doesn't have a lot in it. Just their beds and the big lazy boy chair to sit and read stories in. So mainly, it will be just for sleeping, except I have a sneaky feeling that many toys will migrate there way back in. At least there will be a place to put them when they are done. I'll have to take some pictures later.

We are also getting a quote soon to finish our basement. That will be so nice (but more to keep clean). I can't wait.

Have a great day everyone!

Life is Changing..

So we had a wonderful day today. There are changes taking place in our lives. Today Sean was sustained as the 2nd counselor in our Bishopric. (Sorry everyone for not saying anything sooner, but he wanted me to keep it quiet). I am excited for him and know that he will do an amazing job. I have wondered how he will find time with work and school, but he is a low stress individual so I know that he will learn to juggle everything and do really well.
That Is Our Big News of the Day! As I was coming out of Sunday School Mom was in the hallway talking to Sean so I was excited to see her. She had to teach R.S. today and they set Sean apart during the first part of Sunday School so she missed that, but we still went to my R.S. together and then came home and hang out for a while. It was fun to have her there with me and a very nice surprise. Thanks Mom for being there.

Sean's Mom and Dad also came up and were with us in Sacrament Meeting and then his Dad ordained him to the office of a High Priest. He did an amazing job and of course I sobbed through the whole thing. He was then set apart as 2nd counselor by the Stake Presidency. It was a neat time and now it is official! Scary!!! I love him and am so grateful to be married to him! He will continue to teach me a lot and for that I am excited.

(I will get some better pictures when I have cute bedspreads on both of the beds)

Yesterday we bought bunk beds for Tayler's room. She has been bugging us forever to get them so that Rylee could sleep in her room and so we finally found some for a decent price that I loved so we bought them and put them together last night. The girls were both excited and didn't get to sleep until late, but Rylee did really well in her new bed. I'm not sure I am ready for her to be in a "big girls bed" because that means she is growing up too fast and I'm not sure I am ready for that.

Sean took Tayler to the BYU game yesterday. They played Utah State and he knew that they would score a lot because.. well.. Utah State Sucks (sorry Ry, Brent, Steve, and whomever else LOVE the aggies!) so they got to sing the BYU fight song a lot. Tayler has been excited to go with her daddy for a long time and since it was a beautiful day it worked out well. She was even invited to 2 different birthday parties, but still wanted to go with her Dad. I think all the treats that her daddy purchased helped to make it a fun time :)



Rylee and I drove down with them so that I could drop them off close and then we went shopping, but instead I searched for the best priced mattress down there. I found one and we strapped it in the back and headed home. Tayler only lasted for half the game, but had a great day out with just her Dad.

When we got home I went to Target to see if I could find the same Comforter that I had on Tayler's bed, but of course that one isn't made anymore.. so I searched for a similar one or 2 that were okay priced. I went to several stores, but came up empty handed. I really want to find some I love so we'll see. After 3 stores I had a bad headache which turned into a Migrane so I missed Women's conference. Thank heavens for Tivo! I will watch it tonight.

I hope that everyone had a great weekend. Love and Hugs to all. Thanks to all for the comments on my blog. It really makes it fun and I appreciate it SOOO very much!

Never a Dull Moment

I really do yearn for the moments of sitting on my couch and being completely bored with nothing to do. Those were the days..
Now it seems I can't keep up (okay that seems a little dramatic), but it seems like our lives are pure chaos.

For the first part of this week I have been a mother of 4.. (no I did not birth twins recently!) My sister-in-law had some major surgery so we have been taking care of her kids while she recovers. She has 2 kids, ages 4 and 1. They are great kids, but man it can be challenging. It seems like there is hardly a second to breath between cleaning up messes, fixing another meal, playing games, remembering where they are at all times, bath time, bed time, hair doing, etc. etc. The worse part is I don't have a car that seats 4 in the back so we were home bound. I think we were all a little stir crazy by yesterday afternoon so we bundled up and went outside for a little fresh air anyways. It was good for all of us.

It is pouring rain again this morning, but I love the rain. I need to make cookies or bread or rolls or something.

I am very sad to see Summer coming to an end. I love Fall, but I also love summer walks, and sitting on my porch and talking to all the neighbors. It seems like everyone hides inside and no one emerges until March or April.

I have been re-organizing the kids closets again - taking out the summer clothes and replacing them with long pants and long sleeved shirts. Next week is suppose to warm back up to the 70's again so that will be nice after the 50 degrees we have been experiencing.

BUT with Fall begins the new season premiers of shows. I am definitely an addict, but it keeps me company while Sean is away all the time. I can't wait to see Grey's Anatomy tonight. I think Kirsten and Katherine are coming over to watch it too. It'll be good!

Happy Days everyone!

Fall is almost here!

I can't believe how cold it was this weekend-quite nippy. We received plenty of moisture though. It rained and rained and rained, but it was nice. Today the sun came out, but it still isn't very warm. Today for Church I broke out my boots and wore them again. I love it!!

Friday the girls and I went over to a friends house for lunch. She has 3 girls and we have never gotten together so we finally did. One of her girls, Melia and Tayler are the same age, but in different Sunbeam classes. We had a great time with them and at 2:00 my girls were completely worn out and ready for naps. She is my new Visiting Teaching partner and I love her! She is from Argentina, but has been in the states for many years. She is helping me pick my Spanish back up again because heaven knows I need it. That night was rainy and cold, but we went out looking for bunk beds. I think Rylee is still so tiny, but she would love it and so would her big Sis. Tayler has been asking us for the longest time, so we started looking. I can't believe how expensive they are! I found some at Down East that I really like, but they are pretty costly. I would rather get myself new bedroom furniture! We ate at Golden Corral for dinner.. I know you are all thinking- sick Jess, but they have changed it and the buffet is actually pretty good.

Saturday morning there was a breakfast for all the sisters that read the Conference talks from April. I finished Friday night so I qualified to go. It was yummy and a nice little get-away. Sean even watched the neighbors kids as well so that my friend could go (her husband is a dentist and had to work). When we came home the house wasn't even too big of a disaster! :)
Then at 12:30 Sean had his 2nd BYU party. This time everyone's families came along too because it was "Family Saturday" in our stake. We had pizza and salad for lunch and the kids played really well together. The game was TiVo'ed so it went by much quicker and wasn't so painful.

That night we went down to Bountiful to my G & G's 60th wedding anniversary party. All 6 of my Mom's brothers and sisters were there and a lot of my cousins that I haven't seen in YEARS. I had to step back and make sure I recognized them all and knew their names.. thankfully my Uncle Steve helped me out in that department. It was fun. I went shopping after the breakfast and found these little outfits for a killer deal at Children's Place. I love to buy clothes for my kids and lately I have been so into matching.

Anyway, it was a fun day and night. We came home and all went to bed.

Church was good today. I filled in as the Ward Librarian since ours didn't show up and that is one of Sean's responsibilities to oversee as Sunday School Pres. Most of the copies came out a bit crooked, but hey I did my best.

Well I hope that everyone has a happy week. Take care!

Really....

Could she seem any bigger or be any cuter?

We have watched my little niece Emma a few times in the last few days and I think Tayler feels like she has died and gone to heaven. She has been so cute with her as well. I think she would be a huge helper with another baby! She holds her so well and can feed her too! Do you think we need another one or what? Ummm.. maybe?!? We'll see?!?It started pouring rain on my drive home from work this afternoon. I love rainy nights. I feel like taking a bath and putting on my pajamas and just relaxing, but wait I have to clean up a little, fix dinner, get kids ready for bed and then that can come to pass. Sean will be home tonight after school-- Yeah!

It feels like I haven't seen him for a while- only in passing when we give a high five to each other at the door and reintroduce ourselves. Isn't it sad how crazy life can get with everything going on? I know there is always time though if you prioritize and make good use of your time.

Last night we got a lot accomplished but it wasn't exactly the fun plans I had in mind. We were going to go to the children's museum, but we didn't quite make it. Some time soon we will go!

My friend had her ACL repaired or maybe it was her meniscus (and a bunch of other stuff) on Tues. so we took her over a treat basket and some other fun things to do while she is immobile. She was in some major pain and I felt so sad for her. Thank heavens for drugs though! She has got a long road ahead of her.

I then had to go visiting teaching and figure out a birthday present to take because it was her birthday as well. I found the cutest p.j.'s at Walmart for the kids so I put them in those and brought them with me. And then like most nights the phone rang numerous times and there were many knocks at my door every few minutes. But.. we still managed to go to bed by 10:00. It felt so good because I was SOOO tired from the night before.
Well I hope that everyone had a happy Thursday and just think tomorrow is Friday. HOORAY! Have a great one everybody!!

Half Way

I love Wednesday's! It's the half way mark of the week and they are usually relatively easy with Nothing going on except Tay's preschool.
It's great!!

This week I went to an ENT to see about getting my tonsils out. They are very large and I always have a sore throat so we are taking them out. I have heard that it is pretty painful but it will totally be worth it in the long run. The funny thing is that I haven't ever had strep throat (at least as long as I can remember, which is only about 5 years ago.) Anyway.. I am scheduled for the 19th of Oct. This seems like a crazy time with birthday's and anniversaries and everything. That date seemed to work the best with Sean's schedule as well so that he can take time off and be home.

Today and tomorrow my babe is up at a conference in Park City. They wanted all of the spouses to come and I wish that I was with him, but I couldn't find a babysitter for my kids. It's okay though because the girls and I have lots of fun activities planned. This way I won't miss work tomorrow either so all is well.

My friend and I are doing the CUTEST calendar with vinyl on sheet metal so you can use it as a dry erase board. The days are on little round magnents, so that you can change it each month. It seriously is so awesome. I love it and can't wait until it is finished. I will definately take a picture when it's all done. That is my project for the week.

Sean is having another BYU party at our house on Saturday and I have a breakfast for Relief Society. That night we are going to the reception for my Grandma & Grandpa's 60th wedding anniversary. Holy cow that is a long time. It will be a good day.

Happy day everyone!

Weekend Comings & Goings

We had a fun weekend! On Friday we were in charge of the ward BBQ and I think it actually went well. We had a huge turnout and it didn't rain (thank heavens!) We rented a blow up bouncer that all the kids loved and had a treasure hunt. I didn't take my camera so we didn't get any pictures, but it was a success and now it is over!

Saturday Sean went to the BYU game down in Provo. He went with his friend Jeff and had a great time (minus the down pour-he was still soaked when he got home). He must be a true fan. If it were me, I would have left at the sight of black clouds. (I guess that's why I don't get to go :)

The kids and I had a fun & productive day. I mowed the lawn, cleaned out both cars and the garage. Then we took naps and went to the park. By the time we got home Sean and Jeff were pulling into the driveway so it worked out well. Of course he had to buy the girls some BYU shirts while in Provo.

This is them all practicing the BYU fight song- Rylee and Tay love it!

I was craving Rumbi's rice bowl Saturday night so I went and got myself one and then stood in line forever at Cafe Rio for Sean's dinner. We were all tired so we actually went to bed by 9:45. I think that is a record for us.

**Also, Happy Birthday to my sister in law Katie! I hope you had a great day girl.

Today was a wonderful day. Church was good as usual. Afterwards we came home and Sean grilled up some burgers and then it was naptime. Tonight I had a meeting because I am on the Enrichment committee for Super Friday. I volunteered for the food so then I was off the hook for a lot of other things, but it isn't until Nov. 10th so it should be good.

Anyway.. nothing too exciting. Have a great week everyone!

New Loves

The big purple dinosaur has once again invaded our home. Rylee has now discovered Barney and wants to watch it ALL the time! She also has a baby that she confiscated from my moms house when we were there on Friday. She had a small time apart from her when she was left at Aunt Shelly's house, but the reunion was oh so sweet! I love when they start having opinions about things and show signs of really caring about what they want. She is such a fun and sweet little girl.

Today has been a low key day. Tayler is at preschool right now. It really is so nice to have some time in the afternoon to get things done. I really need to have a goal or plan so that I actually accomplish things and not just waste the time away.

I started looking through my wedding pictures today and the picture book my mom put together for me when I got married because I want to put a collage together of pictures of my dad. Of course I sat and sobbed in the quietness of my home. It was a tender moment to reflect back on all the times he appeared and to think of the circumstances of each individual picture. I really miss him so much. There is such a void in our lives, but I have to say I really do love my family-- each one of them for different things and different personalities and perspectives they bring to my life. I know that things haven't been the "best" lately, but I really love each of them and their spouses more than I can express. Thanks for being so great- all of you!

I also am so grateful for the relationship I have with my mom. I have always known that she has been there whenever I needed her, but I didn't take advantage of that much growing up, and for that I have many regrets now that I am a mother, but since I can't change the past I can only go forward to make things right and I really appreciate her and her kindness and unconditional love towards me and my family. I love to be with her and find all the things we have in common.

Each day is a new experience to learn and try to better ourselves. I hope that I can do that and make those I love realize that both in the things I do and how I express myself. I am truly blessed in this life!

A friend emailed me this Movie today and it totally touched me. Enjoy

I think it is about to pick Tayler up so I hope everyone has a great day!

1st days...

It was Tayler's first day of Dance this morning with her new class and new teacher. I am WAY more impressed with this teacher which makes me happy, but the class is double the size it was before. She loved it and didn't miss a beat (literally :)

It was also her first day of 4 year old preschool. I can't believe how fast she is growing up. She now goes 3 days a week for 2 1/2 hours. It is the same teacher (Heidi) as last year who I think is the best teacher in the whole world. She was so excited to go and will do wonderful. There are 5 other kids in her class this year so it will be great.

Yesterday was a stinky holiday since Sean had to do school work all day. (10 a.m. to 11 p.m.) I guess this is the life of being in school huh? I wasn't in the best of moods either, but we survived and now it's another day. I feel bad because he is so busy and I just cause him grief. Sorry honey! I love you.

Anyway.. I was suppose to watch a little boy today at 3:00, but his mom just called and cancelled. Now I can get some things done. He is very easy so it wouldn't have made a big difference, but I have to run some errands so now it will be easier.

Have a great Tues. everyone! XXXOXX

Labor Day Weekend

It has been a good weekend and time with my hubby and family!
Friday we met Sean at work and headed out to my Mom's house to power rake and seed. It turned into a long day and lots of work, but I think the outcome will be awesome! (fingers are crossed)... The only bad thing out of it was that Sean lost his wedding ring. NICE! After we power raked we had to rake and then bag all the dead grass. Well there were about 20 HUGE black garbage bags full of grass when he noticed it was gone. I figured it was gone forever until we took the bags to the dump Saturday morning and thought "we will just go through each bag and see if we can find it." I had no idea how long it would take to sift through 20 bags of grass. 2 hours later we were filthy, tired, thirsty, and Rylee was grumpy (Tayler was at a birthday party).. but do you think we found it????

Negative! It was so depressing, but at least we gave it some effort. The people at the dump were so nice and at the end they had radioed for a police man and he offered to go get us a metal detector, but we were almost finished so we declined. A nice young boy started helping us at the very end when he and his dad pulled up next to us to dump their load off. Oh well, maybe it is still out on the grass patch at my mom's.

Anyway.. back to Friday- it was still good to be out there and finish up with the yard. Mom came home about 3:30 from work and Tayler was thrilled. She put on her work clothes and started helping us too. We left her house about 9:30 and got home around 10:45 (we had to go back and get the car).

Saturday was errands and doing yard work and cleaning inside for the big Football kickoff party. Sean was so excited. He had a few guys come over and they intently watched the BYU vs. Arizona game. Sadly, the Y didn't pull it off so there were tears shed (kidding).. but he was pretty bummed.

Sunday Sean had to say the Opening Prayer so we had to make it on time. 3rd time in a row. It was a good meeting block. After church we ate and took naps. I love Sundays! That night we had a party at Shelly and Mike's house for Sherra's birthday and then had to leave after an hour to pass out flyers for our block party this Friday.

Today is just a relaxing day. Sean will be home in a minute and then I will go to the gym. I am sure I will find other errands to run and things to do, but we are still in our p.j.'s so we best get up and running!

I hope that everyone has a wonderful Labor Day!