The 4 That We Adore

Day 11

2012-02-13T17:56:00.000-08:00

Day 11

I LOVE...

SURPRISES!!!

(Picture via Pinterest...my pictures wouldn't load! Bummer!)

Craig surprised me in November, and I realized that I haven't blogged about it, so here it is...Craig planned an entire trip, babysitters and all for me. He took me to Disneyland for 3 days. It was just the two of us...and we had a blast! We were as giddy as a couple of jr. high kids! We had great weather, great wait times, and even learned our lesson when we tried to cut the short lines even shorter. Thinking we were SO SNEAKY we jumped the line for Indiana Jones, only to realize we jumped into the exit line and totally lost the chance to go on it our first night! Whatever, you live and learn! It was a great trip, we snuck over to the beach, did a little Christmas shopping, saw a darling missionary couple who was serving there from our ward, and just had a blast! It was the perfect surprise!

(Now what will I do to surprise him??? Ideas?)

Day 10

2012-02-13T17:33:00.000-08:00

Day 10...

I LOVE...

SPENDING TIME WITH THESE GUYS!

Although this photo is a few years old, and it has a couple of cousins in it, this is an amazing bunch of people! Craig also comes from an wonderful family! This photo was taken at our annual Couples Valentine's Dinner. It was held on day 11 (Feb. 11)...and once again it was a great night, full of fun, food, and laughs! Again, I am very blessed not only to have a great family but to have married into one!

Day 9

2012-02-13T17:16:00.001-08:00

Day Nine...

I LOVE...

SPENDING TIME WITH THESE GUYS!

I have mentioned how incredibly blessed I am to have such a wonderful family! We were all together tonight, and the laughs were non stop! We always have such a great time together! I love these guys so much. I can't believe how lucky I am!

Day 8

2012-02-08T18:51:00.001-08:00

** DAY 8 **

I LOVE...

Chasing these....

With this kid telling me which way to go.

Brit has super good hearing. He always seems to hear sirens way before anyone else around here. He loves it most when they come up our street. We were playing outside on a very warm winter day and he heard it from far away...he stopped playing and said, "let's chase it mom!" So me being the nice mom I am, we grabbed the keys and took off. It made it easy for me because by the time I was out of the garage, it was coming up our street. So we took off following it, only to see it making a U turn just up the hill. Brit couldn't believe it, this Fire Truck was lost! We flipped the car around and followed it. They were driving all around our neighborhood and after a wild ride, they found where they were supposed to be. I hadn't ever seen a lost fire truck. It helped make our little adventure that much more fun! Brit loved every minute of it! Good times with my little shadow are something I really love!

Day 7

2012-02-08T18:10:00.000-08:00

** DAY 7 **

I LOVE TO...

Whether they be big or small, there is something about setting a goal and even better achieving that goal. At the first of this year I set a goal...A BIG GOAL! This may not be a big deal for some, but for me it's huge. I thought I needed to be fair with myself, and give myself plenty of time to complete this goal. I am really stepping out of my comfort zone with this. But I want to do this...I have wanted to do it for some time now, but finally got the courage to set the goal, make those who are close to me aware of my goal, and make plans necessary to achieve my goal.

What is this goal, you may ask? Well, I have decided to RUN A HALF MARATHON on or close to my 40th B-day!!! (That gives me 21 months to train!) THIS IS HUGE FOR ME!

With goals I have found that it is easy to get discouraged, well, it could have discouraged me when I went running for the first time and just about DIED after one lap around the track. Keep in mind this was NOT the first time to the track, however; it was the first time I got the nerve up to RUN. I was breathing really hard, and I am sure I sounded like a herd of elephants coming up on other running along side of me. But I made it around one time, (go ahead laugh, cause it is pathetic!) and had to stop running. I started laughing (not outloud, seriously, I would be considered a FREAK if that were the case) in my head. I thought ... "what are you thinking? a 1/2 marathon? That's like 13.1 MILES and you are dying after one lap!"

Discouragement set in just a little bit. But then I found this quote, and I printed it out and have it hanging with some others in my office & in the bathroom.

Somehow, it gives me enough courage to continue! I am happy to say that I have been back and yes, I can now run two laps with out feeling like I am going to die from lack of oxygen. Small steps...but it is an improvement from the time before!

And just because when I saw this I totally thought of myself...one last photo!

YEP, THAT PRETTY MUCH SUMS ME UP!
WISH ME LUCK!

Day 5 & Day 6

2012-02-06T16:48:00.000-08:00

(So I sort of forgot to do this yesterday, so I am playing catch up today!)

** Day 5 **

I LOVE...

Whoever thought of Pinterest is a GENIOUS! I can't tell you how many ideas I have seen online (before Pinterest) and thought I would for sure remember where it was found and every detail of the idea...WRONG! I really don't know how long I have been on Pinterest, but I have loved knowing I can go right to the one thing when I need it.

A word of warning: It can be VERY ADDICTIVE! It is a time waster...but so much fun! I have to be careful, because I am pretty sure I could spend all day long on it! NOT A GOOD IDEA!

** DAY 6 **

I LOVE...

Some of my favorites...

return to me

the notebook

my best friends wedding

a walk to remember

beaches

27 dresses

the help

13 going on 30

{...and the list could go on and on...}

There are few coming out this month that look great also! Call it what you want, but sometimes a good chick flick that ends with a good cry is just what the dr. ordered! (at least for me!)

Day 4

2012-02-04T18:25:00.000-08:00

** DAY 4 **

I LOVE... BEING PAMPERED!

(image found via Google...not the best, sorry)

Craig surprised me for our 17th Anniversary last month and gave me an AWESOME Spa Package. I got to go today and spend 5 Hours at the Amara Day Spa!!! Seriously, 5 hours of relaxation! It was FABULOUS!

When I walked out of there and got to the car, I just sort of laughed...

{I had just had my muscles rubbed, my fat kneaded (massaged), eyebrows plucked, face greased up and washed off (facial), nails clipped, and polished, dead skin scrapped from my heels, hair washed, dried, & styled} And I couldn't have been happier! It was a very thoughtful gift. I LOVED IT!

(here I am in the car just after leaving the spa)

Locals: I highly recommend Amara Day Spa! They take very good care of you. I hope to return again soon.

Day 3

2012-02-03T20:04:00.000-08:00

**DAY 3**

I LOVE...

DATE NIGHTS!

(By the way...this never happens! But I think it's funny!)

Tonight was date night! After a busy week with family, church & work we always look forward to our dates. Tonight we started with Chili's, & then to Hobby Lobby just cause we'd never been there before. (That store could be dangerous!) The best part is that we got to spend time together and enjoy each others company! I love my husband!

Day 2

2012-02-02T19:43:00.000-08:00

** Day 2 **

I LOVE...

This could be on my mind because I stopped there for lunch today! I will try not to do too many days about food. Although, I do love food!

Taco Amigo is a great fast food place here in PG. It is always fresh and super good!

I LOVE TACO AMIGO!

14 Days of LOVE

2012-02-01T20:39:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year...when I get to list the 14 things I love...a sort of countdown to Valentine's Day. Back again this year, hopefully I won't repeat anything, but I won't make any promises!

*DAY ONE*

2/01/2012

I LOVE HEARING THE WORDS "I LOVE YOU" SPOKEN TO ME...

How can it not bring a smile to your face! Sometimes it's my cute students at school who run up and give me a hug and say "I love you, Miss Cricket". Other times it is my sweetest parents who say "We sure do love you". When any of my darling children say it, it melts my heart. The younger ones say it often...but I have noticed that as they get older it just doesn't roll off their tongue as often. A few days ago, I got a call from Caleb, at the end of the conversation, he said, "I love you, Mom!" I got giddy hearing it from him. I think it meant that much more because I knew that his friends were standing right next to him. It just made my heart happy! Last but not least, to hear it from my amazing husband makes me so happy, I really can't explain it.

Everyone wants to feel loved. I do! I know that I am loved, but there is something about hearing it said that just makes my day!

Christmas 2011

2012-01-31T17:53:00.001-08:00

Christmas in pictures...(kind of out of order, but you'll get the drift!)

With Christmas being on a Sunday, we made a deal that the kids could see what Santa brought them, then they had to get ready for church and if there was enough time before we had to leave they could open gifts. Keep in mind we have 9:00 am church!

Craig and I couldn't believe that the kids didn't wake up until 8:00 am. At 5:30 Craig was chomping at the bit. Finally, after being up forever, the started stomping around upstairs and still they wouldn't wake up. He finally woke them up, mostly because we needed to leave by 8:40 am. Don't you worry, the kids were able to get a lot accomplished in the short amount of time they had! Stockings were checked, and dumped, candy wrappers were left all over the room, luckily Santa doesn't wrap at our house, so those were easily seen and loved. Church close were on, hair was combed, teeth were brushed and a few gifts were unwrapped all in 40 minutes. Which has to be a record for us! To bad every Sunday isn't that way!

The day was magical...my vote is that Christmas is always on Sunday. I LOVE IT!

Check out the fun photos, somehow, I need to have someone take a photo of me next year! I am NEVER in the photos. Oh well, we all had a wonderful day!

Christmas tree full of presents waiting to be opened.

Santa has been here and kids are still sawing logs in the basement!

It didn't take long for the room to look like this! This photo was taken after church.

Zach showing off his new helmet.

Craig looking at the Disneyland photo I had made for him.

Caleb so excited for the wheel spacers for "his" truck!

Brit couldn't wait to get the packaging off his Mack truck!

On Christmas Eve I told the kids that we were going to have a contest. Of course, out of all the shopping I did, once again this year I didn't buy pj's. I always kick myself...I WILL NOT FORGET NEXT YEAR! The contest was for each of them to come up with the best elf looking pj's. I didn't think it would be as good as it was!

Zach wasn't very into the idea! But those socks are pretty good.

Liberty looked good...she was all red! Cute girl!

Caleb on the other hand....I was shocked when he came up the stairs. He went ALL OUT! I laughed my HEAD off! Needless to say, he won in my book!

Check it out! Don't you agree, winner hands down! He even put the stockings on his feet, and had bells dangling off of him. FUNNY BOY!

One more note to self...make sure you take a photo of entire family next year. Very important!!

Merry Christmas (a month late!)

Christmas Eve at the Christensen's

2012-01-26T12:18:00.001-08:00

This year we had the chance to go to 2 parties on Christmas Eve. Peterson party was held earlier in the afternoon, and that night we headed over to Christensen's house. Again, we ate wonderful food, I wish I would have taken a photo of all they goodness that was ours for the taking! DELICIOUS! After eating tons, Lori says okay, we are going to play the paper bag game. Now if you have never played this game, it is ALOT harder than you would think!

HOW TO PLAY:

Place a paper bag on the floor

Hands have to be behind your back & one foot off the ground

All players must pick up the paper bag with thier mouth

Everyone gets 3 tries, if you don't make it you are no longer playing

Once everyone has sucessfully picked it up, you cut a portion of the bag off

Sounds easy enough, but I promise...MUCH HARDER THAN YOU THINK!

This game tends to hurt more then next day then it does while playing! HA! HA!

The laughs are everywhere! All I could think about while playing was...I must look ridiculous!

Here's Libby's 1st try

Caleb's turn...

Craig's turn...this was taken after the first round...the bag is shorter
Zach in the first round...

Me in all my loveliness in the 2nd round...

It is very funny to watch. We only made it a couple of rounds, we were all full from eating so much and the combination of the two wasn't working so great! If you can believe this I have seen this game played where only the bottom of the paper sack was left and people were still able to pick it up. CRAZY! Seriously, it is a very fun game, give it a try! But don't say I didn't warn you!

Randomly, I ended up winning the game! It came down to 4 people still in and we went ahead and picked numbers to see who won, it was my lucky day! I won the iTunes card! Funny thing is I don't even have an iPod! So my children were really nice to me and of course I let them use it!

One last shot from the 2nd floor of their house. Everyone there, playing Pictionary!
Thanks for a fun party Christensen's!

Christmas Eve Peterson Party

2012-01-26T11:59:00.000-08:00

This photo pretty much sums up what Christmas Eve is all about. Being surrounded by family. Once again the Peterson Family Party was held at our home. It is always wonderful to be with family. We had a great talent show, yummy food, great laughs, and fun presents. I must say that a nice working piano really kicked up the talent show. So much fun! As the family gets bigger and older, I am always amazed while spending time with them how blessed we are to have each other. It was a wonderful party!

*panoramic photo of everyone in the family room*

*cute girls in Santa hats*

*Zach sporting his hat*
*Grammy, Caleb & Libby singing Silver Bells*

*Libby playing Silent Night on the piano*
*Brit (with my help) singing I'm Getting Nuttin' For Christmas, which he really can sing all the words and really well for a 2 year old, but of course he chose not to sing for the family. So sad, cause it is DARLING!*

Another great year to celebrate Christmas, being with the ones you love and enjoying every minute of it!

Merry Christmas 2011

He's Permitted!

2012-01-24T14:34:00.000-08:00

Caleb got his permit in October. He could have gotten it last April but thought he should read the book before hand. It didn't take him 6 months to read it, we were just so busy that it kept being pushed back. Finally, without even really reading the book we went one afternoon on a whim. He had to take the test 2 times, doing pretty badly the first time and then coming to the car to take the practice test on my phone a few times then returning to pass with only missing 3.

It was rush hour when we left the DMV and he was begging to drive home. I couldn't let him, as a mom, I just was sort of freaking out! However, when we got closer to home, I pulled over and let him drive the back way home. I know, I am really nice right? He has had lots of practice since then, and only one time scared the TAR out of me! Let's just say I saw the lives of all my kids, my husband and myself flash before me eyes...seriously 15 seconds of TERROR on the freeway! But he will be a good driver. Maybe it's just the fact that I can't believe that he is old enough to be driving. I know, I know, I need to face the facts, my boy is growing up!

Caleb driving for the first (legitimate) time 11-11-11

Temple Square

2012-01-15T19:05:00.000-08:00

The Friday before Christmas we got all bundled up and headed up to Temple Square to see the lights. This has become a tradition for us along with going to dinner at Sizzler in SLC. Its always fun to see the beauty of Temple Square sparkling with millions of christmas lights. Photos of our night below...

We parked in the new City Creek parking lot, which proved to be a trial...you see they lock the doors early and we had to pound on the doors until a janitor would open the doors so we could get back to our car. On the search for the car!

Caleb and Zach think they had finally found it!

A quick photo of my cute clan!

Someone is pretty excited! So cute!

Cute, traditional photo of all of us inside the Tabernacle. (maybe I should have taken my hat off, I really do have eyes!)

Brit and I waiting for the rest of the family to come out of the Assembly Hall

A family photo surrounded by the awesome lighted trees.

Dinner at Sizzler... not sure what Lib is doing.

The other half of the family at Sizzler

There is nothing I love more than spending time with these guys! I love Christmas traditions both small and large! Until next year!

Zach's Football Season

2011-11-11T17:17:00.001-08:00

This year Zach's team did great! They made it to the playoff's. The team was lucky enough to have some very talented parents who were willing to take photos of every game. Check out Zach's season in photos:

Zach #1 and Stockton (his cousin) #5

Zach blocking

Zach in action

Randomly our team had two #1's on it. I was grateful for Zach's yellow mouth piece because it was one way to help tell them apart.

Until the last few games when Stockton gave Zach a new mouth piece which he called his Binkie...love the pink!

Zach running onto the field after 1/2 time.

Zach tackling someone

Zach making his way through the parent tunnel after a win

Zach blocking

Listening to a half time pep talk

More blocking...

and more blocking....

and, not sure what is going on in this one!

Awaiting kick off

Looking for a tackle

after a tackle

Probably my favorite photo of them all! Look how cute this kid is!

Another great year of football...until next year!!

GO VIKINGS!

Caleb Football

2011-11-05T18:39:00.000-07:00

Caleb's Sophmore Football Season

Caleb had a great season in football this year. He started as Sophmore Quarterback and started on Varsity as Guard on the Punt Team. He was so excited to play Varsity his Sophmore year. One week he was moved up to JV starting QB. All great experiences. He loved it. It was fun for Craig and I to be in the stands watching him improve. The last few games of the season he played QB, Middle Linebacker (defense) and punted. He rarely came off the field. He is a good player, and he realized there is always room for improvement. His heart is in it. And that is all that matters.

I had to grow thick skin this year as the mom of the QB. It is a hard position, if we win all is well, and if we loose or if the team is struggling many comments are made. It was sometimes hard to hear people yelling at my son. I am not sure if I will ever get used to that.

As always I can't wait to see what happens next year. Great Season Caleb!

A couple of photos of my favorite QB! Isn't he cute!

Summer Tea Party

2011-10-13T09:19:00.001-07:00

Towards the end of summer Grammy and Papa had a Summer Tea Party for the younger girls. They of course made it perfect for the girls. They had a good time making trail mix, and doing crafts and of course eating outside under the tree. It was a fantastic day for everyone. One thing I learned (well I have always know it but this just reinforced my knowledge) was that my Mom has a wonderful talent for making ordinary things EXTRAORDINARY! She is amazing. It's all about the details. I LOVE IT! She makes everything so special. The girls definately felt it. The best part was after we had everything set up and Dad, Cortney and I went inside to eat while Grammy and the girls stayed outside, just watching the girls interact with their Grammy who they all ADORE! Laughing and just pure love and happiness on all of their faces. I wish I would have taken a picture of that. Thanks mom for making another day EXTRAORDINARY!

(just a little side note: Liberty is totally picking up on the fun things her Grammy does. It isn't odd for me to come to the dinner table that has been set by Lib with name cards, small dishes with little treats at each place setting, goblets, and random flowers as a center pieces. I must say that I LOVE THIS!)

Liberty showing off her yummy cupcake.

The girls coloring Lady Bugs and puzzles.

Making trail mix

Liberty's turn to mix it.

Sweet Tooth Fairy cupcakes! YUM!

The tea party food. Seriously how cute is that?

Grammy giving the girls some great advice!

Pinkies UP!

4 cute girls with Grammy & Papa

Thanks Grammy & Papa for another great memory!

39 and Holdin'

2011-09-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

I remember when my mom was turning 39, my dad played a record with a song on it called "39 and Holdin'". I remember thinking that seemed so OLD! It is funny that this year my cute hubby turned 39 (I am not far behind him!)...I wanted to get my hands on the song but didn't. But not to worry, his birthday was still complete with decorations, balloons, cake and of course an embarassing sign hanging on the house (all day without him realizing it when he left in the morning) that read...

"HONK! IT'S THE BISHOP'S BIRTHDAY!"

(Sorry photo taken from my phone)

We got a few honks, but mostly people sent him messages on facebook or texted him. He felt loved. And really isn't that what a b-day is meant to be about? To feel the love! We celebrated with a trip to 7 Peaks with Craig's family (which happens to be Craig's least favorite place in the world!) but we were cut short by a wicked thunder/lightening storm which honestly was pretty cool! I hope he had a fun day!

So many candles it took 3 people to light them!

The cake all a-glow

Making a wish! Ready to blow them out.

For as long as they took to light...he blew them out in one blow!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE BEST HUSBAND IN THE WORLD!

Handprints

2011-09-12T19:49:00.001-07:00

One afternoon we decided to have a little fun and make this house which we have lived in for almost 8 years a little more ours! Who doesn't love seeing handprints in concrete.

After a little bit of prep work, we mixed and laid the concrete and waited for just the right moment for everyone to put their hand in.

Prep work...

Caleb mixing the cement
Craig smoothing everything out

Liberty taking her turn....(well really she is posing, cause I was washing my hands when the kids actually did it)

The final product.

So yes, we feel sort of famous!

One Of My Favorites

2011-09-09T15:13:00.001-07:00

{Brit giving Caleb knuckles after his big win!}

Do you ever take a photo that melts you heart when you look at it?

Well, this is what this does to me!

I LOVE THIS PICTURE!!!
It pretty much sums up how a little boy looks up to his big brother.

Definately one of my forever FAVORITES!

(If only I could have taken it with my camera not my phone! Oh well!)

BACK TO SCHOOL!

2011-08-24T18:58:00.000-07:00

***YES THERE IS MORE SUMMER TO POST, BUT I HAD TO INTERUPT SUMMER BECAUSE THESE PHOTOS JUST CAN'T WAIT!!!!***

Cause we are BACK TO SCHOOL! The first part of August I took down the Patriotic decorations and decided to do this display in our front room. To be honest, it added some excitement and some complaints. Summer FLEW by, just as it always does. By the time the big day came, the kids were ready!

Zach just about ready to jump on the bus...can't you see the excitment!

Zach is starting 5th grade! Getting bigger everyday, happier than ever, and just an all around great kid!
Liberty just as the bus is driving up. Yep, she complained about being the only girl who had to wear a skirt on the first day. Oh well, deal with it! (that's what I told her!)

Liberty is starting 3rd grade. She is my social butterfly, loves to play with her friends, loving doing crafty things, and as she grows up, she reminds me more and more of myself.

Caleb leaving for HIGH SCHOOL! McKinsey (cousin) is kind enough to pick him up everyday. This was quite hard to watch him walk out the door and drive away. He is growing up! Next year he'll be driving himself! YIKES!

Caleb is now a HIGH SCHOOLER!!! WHAT???? HOW CAN THAT BE??? He is starting his Sophmore year. Hard to believe. He is growing up so fast. He is a great athlete, and hilarious (just ask him!), and just like his brother a great young man!

(side note: Last Saturday night he asked me to take him to the Stake dance. This shocked me cause he has been old enough to go for over a year and hasn't gone. When I asked him what changed his mind he said, "I'm in 10th grade now Mom, I am a new kid!")

Brit officially started school at Kids Village. Last year he came with me but didn't attend a class. Here he is with his cute apron on, he was pretty jazzed, until I left and had a rough first day, but he did great his second day! Keep your fingers crossed.

Brit thinking he is pretty hot stuff posing by "the tree" for back to school pictures. He knows the drill from watching his siblings! Look how cute this kid is. He puts a smile on everyone's face! Man, I love him!

When everyone was out the door and things calmed down...I found myself organizing bedrooms and listening to music while Brit played. The song "Slipping Through My Fingers" from Mama Mia came on...I sat on Lib's bed and tears just started streaming down my face. The words hit home!

"School bag in hand, she leaves home in the early morning

Waving good-bye with that absent minded smile

I watch her go with a surge of that well-known sadness

And I have to sit down for a while

The feeling that I'm loosing her forever

And without really entering her world

I'm glad whenever I can share her laughter

That funny little girl

Slipping through my fingers all the time

I try to capture every minute

The feeling in it

Slipping through my fingers all the time

Do I really see what's in her mind

Each time I think I'm close to knowing

She keeps on growing

Slipping through my fingers all the time."

I sat there for a while, then had to pull myself together! My kids are growing up...that's what they are supposed to do. Why is it so hard? But hard or not, I couldn't ask for 4 better kids! I love them to pieces! Good luck in school Caleb, Zach, Liberty & Brit! Make a difference!

Two of a Kind

2011-07-22T12:32:00.000-07:00

One afternoon the phone rang it was Papa. He asked if Zach wanted to play catch. Zach said yep. Papa got in his car and drove 30 minutes to play catch with Zach. It was so fun to watch them on the side of the house throwing to each other. An afternoon Zach won't forget.

{Thanks Dad for making his afternoon! You are great!}

Still Laughing!

2011-07-22T12:21:00.000-07:00

So while sitting watching Liberty play Rock Band, I see Brit walk up to the wood stove open the doors and say

"hello, anybody home?"

For the 5 people who read this blog, most of you will totally understand why I think this is so funny. And just for the record he said it just like Ruby used to at our screen door.

That made this mom laugh on a day I am NOT feel good at all.

Thanks Brit!

Bear Lake

2011-07-21T06:14:00.001-07:00

For the week of the 4th we headed up to Bear Lake. We went with Papa & Grammy, Cari, Craig, Cortney and their families. It was a blast! Ideal Beach Resort was a perfect fit for our family. It had something for everyone! Check out our do-ING's of the week!

(some photos taken from my sister's blog...thanks Cari)

BEAR LAKE ING'S

(get it...everything ends with ING)

just danc-ING

swimm-ING

smil-ING

goof-ING off

apostle meet-ING

(Elder L.Tom Perry happens to vacation at Ideal Beach every year over the 4th of July week. We all had the opportunity to see him, talk with him over the week. Pretty cool!)

firework watch-ING

feet soak-ING (in dirty lake water)

eat-ING & snack-ING

beach go-ING

canoe-ING

sand digg-ING

lake swimm-ING

park play-ING

tennis play-ING

racket swing-ING

miniature golf-ING

puddle jump-ING

lake explor-ING

bike rid-ING

volleyball play-ING

chatt-ING

paint-ING

snorkel-ING (well just after snorkeling)

Other ING's not pictured...

napp-ING

cry-ING

laugh-ING

cry-ING due to laugh-ING

color-ING

sidewalk chalk-ING

movie watch-ING

finger & toe nail paint-ING

ice cream cone buy-ING

sun burn-ING

lov-ING every minute of the week!

Great week, great company. I loved it! Hope to do it soon!

Football Camps

2011-07-19T07:34:00.001-07:00

June was a very busy football month for Caleb. He was gone more than he was home all month long. The first week of June he went to Utah State for his team camp. This was a great experience for him. I think he grew alot. Craig went up to watch him and said he was doing well.

The next week he went to a U of U 7 on 7 day long camp. The following week he went to a day camp again at the U of U. Then he headed to a BYU 7 on 7 day camp, and then spent the next week at BYU Football Camp. That was the camp that I was able to go watch him at (all photos were from that week). Even with all of this going on he still managed to go to morning workouts at the high school and also T/Th night practices when he could. So basically, football...football....football, all month long! But really I don't think he minded AT ALL!

My grown up QB Caleb!

Caleb and his roommate Joe from California. Joe learned early on that Caleb is a man of few words. I think it was a perfect match because Joe was a very outgoing young man. I think it was just what Caleb needed.

Caleb on the field...

Getting ready to throw

Throwing

Another throw

and another

Helping clean up the field after the game is over

My cute Quarterback! This is his signature sideline stance. I love it!

Not only did he have so much football he also went to Scout Camp (more on that later)

Keep up the good work Caleb!

Zach Baseball Season

2011-07-18T19:57:00.001-07:00

*DIAMONDBACKS REGULAR SEASON*

Zach at bat!

Sliding into home, and looking to the Umpire for the call. SAFE! He hit a HOME RUN!

Zach showing his teammates where on the bat he hit the ball.

Craig was one of the many times that Craig showed up a game after Bishopric meeting in his suit. That's my cute hubby!

Craig in his suit giving the after game pep talk!

*DIAMONDBACK STATE TOURNAMENT*

Notice my lucky photography! Somehow I finally managed to capture a hit. Zach in full swing with the ball flying towards the outfield. FINALLY, I don't know how many photo I have taken that were so close!

Zach and his teammates cheering on the team who came in 2nd place. One thing about the Diamondbacks they are great sports. They beat some teams pretty badly but they always held themselves with dignity. They were great winners.

Zach recieving his trophy and t-shirt.

Just after the game ended, the Umpire handed Zach a water cooler pretty full of water with a smile on his face. Zach knew just what to do with it. He (we the help of a teammate) drenched Jeff. I really don't think Jeff knew what was coming. Zach sure was proud of himself!

After the trophy ceremony, one of the parents brought a cooler full of Sprite. Jeff told all the boys to get a can, shake it up and open it. Zach was having the time of his life. The large stream of Sprite flying thru the air is coming from Zach's can. The boys loved this!

Diamondbacks back to back State Champions! Way to go boys!

Craig and Zach showing who they are...we're number ONE!

We got home late after the games, waiting for us on the front door was this great congratulations sign. We were all surprised. Zach thought it was pretty cool. Thanks Aunt KyLee!

*PLEASANT GROVE ALL STARS 2011*

Zach at bat

Pleasant Grove All Stars Team 2011

Zach showing off his trophy.

The went undefeated in this tournament. They played so well together, considering they are usually playing against each other. They were really fun to watch!

This season Zach played 1st Base. He did a great job. His hitting has gotten better. In the State Tournament his batting average was over 800. NICE JOB!

Great season Zach! Can't wait for next year!

Last Week Of School!

2011-06-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

The final week of school was jam packed with events for the kids. Tuesday came and we hit the ground running and it seemed we didn't stop until Friday. With Awards Assemblies, Fun Run, Dance Festival, Lagoon Day, and everything in between it was a whirlwind week.

Luckily my school got out a week earlier so I could attend all of this...

Caleb's Awards Assembly

Blurry picture, he would NOT look at me for anything. I was in the 2nd row and he saw me but knew I had the camera and refused to look at me.

Caleb walking up to recieve his awards...I love how everything is blurry but him. Really I meant it that way!!!!

Strangely enough while at the Awards Assembly they didn't announce what awards the kids were recieving. I thought it was a silly way of doing it. Like a friend said, they could have just given them out in class. After it was over I tried to catch him in the hall, but it was like a sea of teenagers and I never saw him. Again, he knew I had a camera...he probably RAN! When he got home from school he showed me his awards. I was so proud of him. He had a great year and finished his Freshman year with straight A's!!!! I was so happy for him.

Fun Run 2011

The kids always look forward to the fun run. They also complain and talk like they aren't going to run. When the complete it they always feel great after doing it. Although they aren't the front runners...they run and complete the race and that is what I expect of them. None of this walking the laps. Drives me sort of crazy to be honest.

Zach finishing his second lap around the track...

Liberty just after finishing. I love the looks on thier faces.

I caught Lib standing next to her teacher, Mrs. Pratt.

Dance Festival 2011

The dance festival is always my favorite. I love watching the kids have fun dancing. This year was probably the most pleasant weather we have had in ages. Not hot and not cold.

I found Zach the day earlier with his teacher, Mr. Johnson.

Zach and Lib just after the Dance Festival

Liberty doing her dance to a Broadway tune, something like Shake, Rattle & Roll. I wasn't familiar with it, but it was one of the cutest dances this year if you ask me.

Zach's class did a dance to Footloose. I LOVED IT! It was perfect for Zach who is quite the dancer. I LOVE watching him every year. He was certainally cutting loose!

Caleb went to 9th Grade Lagoon Day...but of course with his love of the camera, there aren't any photos of that.

It was a fun week. I always love the end of the year, because I know Summer is coming. My favorite.

Arrow of Light

2011-05-28T19:28:00.001-07:00

It seems weird to think that Zach is old enough to be done with Cub Scouts. Last week was his last Pack Meeting. He has been working hard to complete all the requirements for his Webelos badge and also his Arrow of Light. At pack meeting he was awarded both of those. He was excited to be welcomed into 11 year old Scouts.

Zach while just after the Arrow of Light presentation. I LOVE THIS PHOTO! It captures my Zach perfectly.

Zach pinning on my Mother's pins. We always get a good laugh at this, I don't know why.

So good bye belt loops, pins & badges...we are on to rank advancements and merit badges and onto his Eagle award. Great job Zach!

Liberty's Baptism

2011-05-26T16:52:00.001-07:00

On May 7th Liberty was baptized. She has been looking forward to this day for just about a year now. It finally came!!! She looked so cute, she wore the dress that I wore when I was baptized (many years ago!!). I am so happy that it fit her perfectly! Grammy made her a dress out of the same fabric as her blessing dress & my wedding dress to wear after she was baptized. It is absolutely darling! For whatever reason I can't get that photo to open. I will work on it. Just take my word for it, she looked darling! It was a wonderful day for her, she was surrounded by family and friends who love her very much. I hope that she never forgets how wonderful it was!

Liberty in the same dress I wore.
It may not have been Brit's big day, but he was dressed to KILL! He looked so cute in his suit. He was screaming at the beginning of the baptism because he wanted to "get in the water"! He was so cute, he fell asleep after he calmed down and ended up sleeping through everything!
Grammy started to cry when she first saw Liberty.
One of my favorite photos EVER! I love that I happened to capture this moment between Craig and Liberty. So sweet!
Liberty & Craig just before the baptism

Eight Is Great!

2011-05-08T12:28:00.000-07:00

Liberty and Adam (they share birthdays) getting ready to blow out their candles.

My little girl is growing up! Lib turned 8 years old. She is a darling little girl, who is friendly to all and I love her very much! Her birthday happened to fall on Easter weekend this year so she was able to celebrate it with our extended family as we celebrated Easter with them. It was really fun for her, she loves the excitement of it all! Just before her b-day Grammy & Papa gave her an American Girl doll. It was a total surprise for her. We had been looking online at them and she had picked one that she mentioned maybe she could ask for it for Christmas. I quickly then ordered it from Grammy & Papa.

Here she is with her Emily doll a couple of weeks before her b-day!

For her birthday from us she got a certificate for a girls night out and 3 outfits of her choice for her Emily doll. It is always fun to have a girls night with her. She is way excited!

this is her reading her card/certificate on her b-day.

Happy Birthday to my little girl! It's a big one, eight years old. Very exciting time for you.

I LOVE YOU LIBERTY!

Caleb Birthday

2011-05-05T18:45:00.000-07:00

It just seems strange to me that my "little man" (as he was once called by me) is now 15 years old. Seriously, how can this be?? I ask this for 2 reasons...

1. it was just yesterday that we brought him home from to our house in Lindon.

2. I can't be old enough to have a 15 year old, RIGHT? I was just 15 not that long ago! HA!

Like it or not, my "little man" is growing up and getting big...really big! Even though I do sometimes struggle with the idea, I love watching him grow, make decisions of his own, and I love watching him become such a great young man. He puts a smile on my face!

This year his birthday landed on the first day of Spring Break. His wish, snowmobiling with his dad and brother. Wish granted! They had a great day! Fresh snow, sunshine, and who could ask for better conditions? They loved it. At about 1:00 I got a text from Craig's brother Scott...attatched was this photo. I just laughed. Check it out (I know it's small!)

You see in the meadow in front of the cabin there is one of those UDOT commuterlink cameras. Scott happened to catch Craig on his phone and told him to go stand by the camera. They were caught on film. Pretty funny, huh?

While they were gone Lib and I decorated the house and made his strawberry cheesecake. He came home to balloon, gifts, cheesecake, and because he left too early for us to go on our birthday donut run, we had some donuts waiting for him also. He had a great day!

And in case you were wondering...just like his shirt says...he's a keeper! We love you Caleb!

Glow

2011-04-17T14:23:00.000-07:00

At Grovecrest the 2nd Graders put on an original play called GLOW. It's a cute play about how everything has a place in the world. We were excited to watch Liberty perform. She did great. She had a solo, and nailed it!

Check out how cute she looked, and her whole class was awesome!

I love that she enjoys singing and performing.

Where does the wind go? After it rains?

Lib as part of the chorus. She was fun to was so funny to watch, she was like a mother hen making sure the kids that surrounded her had all their props at the appropriate times.

Butterfly #1 singing her solo. She was awesome! But I could tell how nervous whe was.

She was all smiles when it was all over and the nerves went away.

Showing off her wings

Liberty with some of her friends from her class.

Grammy and Papa came to watch her

The boys both had scouts and missed the play.

She did a great job!

General Conference Weekend

2011-04-10T21:14:00.000-07:00

You know it's General Conference Weekend when...

you wake up to unexpected snow...

Liberty begs to sleep on the bean bag so she can have that spot during the first session.

It sort of is the coveted spot in our family.

Brit plays with his trucks and cars all through every session Black paper is put over the windows so we can see the screen clearly.

I use almost a 1/2 ream of paper to print the many different Conference Packets to keep the kids quiet.

At 12:01 the phone starts ringing for the Bishop

Zach is happy when he gets the coveted spot.

Caleb gets cozy on the couch while listening

Brit snores through the last session

Zach tries every conference to get a photo that looks like he is singing with the chior.

and at the end of the day...a wrestling match takes place. All the cooped up energy is let out.

the family room looks like a pile of blankets, pillows, snacks, toys and who knows what

One of our favorite weekends of the year. We always look forward to being able to listen to Conference and enjoy being together all weekend.

Experiences

2011-04-02T19:22:00.000-07:00

Craig's brother Todd was able to get tickets for the boys to go to the Conference Center for Priesthood Session. I love that Caleb (and the others) had the experience to go and sit at the feet of the Prophets. It can only strengthen the testimony that is growing within him. It still is hard for me to think that my first little man in old enough to go with the big boys.

Here are Caleb and Hayden just before the session started.

(look at them...they are growing up to be handsome, good young men. I LOVE IT!)

Brit's Big Day

2011-04-02T19:06:00.001-07:00

Last Tuesday I had Parent Teacher Conferences, Craig had a ton of work to do so Brit had a chance to spend the day with Grammy & Papa. He was way excited. His day was of course fun. They went to the mall, ate lunch, played in the treehouse slide and had the chance to go to Build A Bear. He made a dog and named it DOG. He's a clever one isn't he? I was so happy to see that Grammy and Papa took photos of the fun day. It was so cute to listen to Brit tell the older kids about his day. He kept saying slide...tree...dog over and over with a big smile on his face. A big thanks goes to Grammy and Papa for making the day so much fun. Look at the smile on his face in these photos. I think it shows how great of a time he had.

Getting ready to slide down into Grammy.

Papa helping fluff DOG after making it...so cute.

Thanks Mom & Dad for helping us out!

St. Patrick's Day Fun

2011-03-24T16:47:00.000-07:00

A Leprechaun visited our house again this year...(highlight of my day, actually happened the day before, when Liberty excitedly asked Zach if he thought the leprechaun was going to come again like last year!) Our day started out with rainbow waffles, green milk, and Lucky Charms. We all sported green to school and work, except for Zach who once again was the rebel and said..."don't worry mom, if anyone tries to pinch me they will get into trouble!" he wore jeans and a BYU shirt and later at school drew a green shamrock on his hand. Too cool...whatever!

Sure enough while at school the leprechaun visited the house and decorated it with shamrocks EVERYWHERE! He left green balloons, green streamers on the outside of the door blowing in the wind for all the neighborhood to see. (Caleb asked me if next year the leprechaun could possibly stay inside the house so everyone didn't see....TEENAGERS!) Of course we had our green dinner. We had, sloppy joes (NOT GREEN) on green buns, green & orange jello, green bagged chips, cabbage salad, deviled eggs, green apple soda pop, and green rice crispy treats for dessert. As always it was fun...we had a guest, Liberty's friend Evrest over. I don't know if she thought we were fun or crazy...but she was jazzed when Craig gave her his bag of gold. (everyone got a bag of gold on their plate). Good times...even if Craig sometimes shakes his head at me, and Caleb is getting "way to cool for it". I look forward to it EVERY year! Check out our fun night!

Breakfast is served! Aren't those waffles to die for?

The gang just before eating.

Brit chewing on his green straw.

The green meal...if you look in the background of most of the photos you can see how the leprechaun decorated with tons of shamrocks.

Added this one to show the cute green pins that Lib and I made for the big day. So easy and so cute!

My boys are getting WAY TO BIG! (and they really need haircuts)

Everyone dishing up

Zach's "green" for the day.

Cute pot of gold at the end of the rainbow center piece.

Hope your St. Patrick's Day was fabulous! Until next year!

Vegas Baby!

2011-03-20T19:55:00.000-07:00

Craig and I took the chance to go on a little getaway. It was fabulous! We decided to head to Vegas to see The Lion King. We really enjoyed the play, felt totally out of place on the strip, ate at the same places we would have at home (McDonalds, Chili's), went and saw Hoover Dam, got upgraded to a very cool suite at Mandalay Bay, visited/stayed with some amazing friends, and loved every minute of it. We were able to stay in touch with the kids via texting, and it was great to come home to children who sincerely missed us and were very happy to see us. That will make any mom & dad feel loved. The hardest part is waiting until we can do it again!

Waiting for the Belagio Water Show to start.
Craig's first time seeing the water show. Always very impressive.

Hoover Dam...pretty darn cool, if I do say so myself

Craig at Hoover Dam

AHHH! Cute.

Quick pic just after the play

One last shot of the sign

Final shot of the two of us, just before leaving our cool hotel room and heading to church.

Vegas Trip 2011

Nothing Better Than...

2011-03-11T04:19:00.000-08:00

A list of current (There's) Nothing Better Than's....or NBT

NBT - listening to Brit say his ABC's

NBT - the smell of Easter Candy

NBT - open windows, cool breeze blowing thru my house

NBT - 19 Patriotic Programs being over...and a success

NBT - Spending a great evening with my parents & sisters

NBT - a getaway with Craig (well deserved if I do say so!)

NBT - watching my family play ROCK BAND

NBT - a good night sleep

NBT - a clean house

NBT - recognizing how blessed I am

NBT - Caleb getting excited for football

NBT - Lib practicing her solo for the school play

NBT - Zach funny movie quotes (make me laugh every time)

NBT - Brit singing "Skinamirink"

NBT - a WONDERFUL family

NBT - a long weekend!

and...

I could go on and on...but I will stop there. Have a WONDERFUL weekend!

Daddy Daughter Ball 2011

2011-03-11T03:48:00.000-08:00

Liberty knows that late February means she gets to go on a special date with Craig.

Kids Village puts on an AWESOME Daddy Daughter Ball each year. This year was perfect if you ask me. They chose a 50's theme. Liberty and I searched the internet for the perfect poodle skirt. (she chose the color, I chose the price! We got a deal, $12! I couldn't make it for that!)

Aunt Jen was nice enough to help out with her hair...and it looked DARLING!

Best part was Liberty loved it! Thanks Jen!

Check out the do...

I was asked to help at the ball so I had to leave before Craig and Liberty. I asked that the boys take a photo of Liberty all dressed and also one with Craig. Then I asked for Craig to bring the camera to the ball so I could take more photos. Well, as I was checking my camera and card...somehow all the photos that I took of the evening (Craig and Lib dancing, making crafts and others) have been deleted. I have and idea who may have done it. But I am not saying anything!

This was the only shot I have of Liberty dressed up....doesn't she look cute.

Kids Village was decked out! It looked so cute! Liberty chose just the right color of skirt, it fit with the color scheme of the decorations. Great music, a diner with burgers, fries & a soda fountain. They made a darling picture frame that held their photo for the night. It was a perfect night...except Liberty wasn't feeling all that great. Their night was cut short due to this but it didn't seem to phase Liberty. She is already asking about next year!

Such great memories for her!
Next year...I promise I will have more photos!!!

Brit's Birthday

2011-03-08T17:55:00.000-08:00

Well there is nothing fun about being sick on your birthday...

and even worse having to get a shot on your birthday...

but Brit dealt with it all pretty good.

It helped that he was turning 2 because it seemed like any other day to him.

He was very cute, he could hardly walk because of the pain from the 4 shots he had.

(he walked by leaning on things, walls, chairs, couch, fridge, whatever was closest)

He got a bright green t-shirt from us, and let's just say it wasn't the best color on a sick little boy.

He tried to be happy, and smile when asked even though he wasn't feeling all that great.

(Papa and "Bunny"/Grammy came to see Brit. Grandpa and Grandma did too...but he was asleep)

He had visitors, some he saw and others he slept through.

He opened presents and from time to time we would catch that excited look.

Luckily he started to feel better a couple of days later and that is when he really started to enjoy all the fun things he got.

It's hard to believe that my little man in now 2. He is getting so big, he is a happy and funny little boy who is loved by all of us.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRIT!!!!

Signs of a SICK baby

2011-02-23T09:12:00.000-08:00

Brit hanging out in my bed...at least I got a smirk!

Signs of a sick baby:

1. random old towels strewn over every surface he may sit or sleep.

2. mounds of laundry, from all the throw ups due to coughing so much

3. sippy cups and bottles full of all kinds of liquids hoping he will ask for a drink

4. a quiet house so Brit can get his rest and not be woken up after he falls asleep

5. two parents who are so sleep deprived that they may or may not be on the verge or craziness!

6. nebulizer, with albueteral ready at hand to help with breathing (spelling is very questionable)

7. brothers & sister who are worried along with parents

8. phone calls anytime mom and dad leave the house for an hour, throwing up again

9. a pale, sad faced little boy wandering/laying around

10. tub filling up and emptying at least 3 times a day, with a very skinny baby boy in it

11. full plates of food, trying to get him to eat anything, and he'll only take a bite or two

So for the past couple of weeks Brit has been sick. About 12 days ago we took him in and found he had double ear infections...total shocker for us. He didn't show any sign that his ears were hurting, we took him in because of his cough. He got a shot of antibiotics (because he REFUSES to take meds) and we saw signs of him being better. Then about 5 days ago it all came back! Not what we wanted to have happen. He and I spent the weekend just hanging out on the bean bag sleeping, and trying to get him to drink and eat. Yesterday, I was done, I wanted him better. So I took him in AGAIN! Nothing makes me crazier than having to go back to the Dr's. Sure enough, the first round of antibiotics didn't work and both his ears were still infected. This time we have to have a series of shots...3 days in a row. He won't be too happy about that. I wasn't too happy about the amount of moo-la I have to spend. YIKES! But, you do whatever it takes to make your child better, right? He already seems to be getting a little better, he woke up at 1:15 am last night asking for cereal, which is great, but his timing wasn't the best. So here we are just hanging out hoping he is on the mend.

Day 14

2011-02-15T18:38:00.000-08:00

Day 14

I LOVE...

being married to Craig!

{not the best photo of us...but the most recent}

I am very blessed to have such an amazing husband. He takes such good care of me, and our children. I love him VERY MUCH! I love everyday we spend together.

Day 13

2011-02-15T18:36:00.001-08:00

Day 13

I LOVE...

my children!

I have hilarious children. They are constantly making me laugh. I love their smiles, their laughs, their fun personalities! My chidren are pretty great!

{these photos were taken at Liberty Land}

Zach riding the Frogger! Check out that smile!

Caleb and Liberty at JCW's before heading to Liberty Land. So cute!

Brit riding on the Pirate Ship Swing at Liberty Land. He had a blast and giggled the entire time we were on it. Then we had to go on it OVER and OVER again.

My kids make me HAPPY!

Day 12

2011-02-12T18:48:00.001-08:00

Day 12...

I LOVE...

what I do!

(photo courtesy of Homegrown Hospitality)

Although my days seem to run into one another, and they seem to be chuck full of busyness, and sometimes even craziness, I LOVE every minute of it! I feel blessed to live the life I live. I am a happy, loved, successful (at least I think I am) gal who loves the life I live. When I first saw this quote above...I fell in love with it. What a goal...to love what we do and share what we love. My hope is that I can make a difference in someone's life as I go throughout mine.

Enjoy the journey!

Day 11

2011-02-12T18:40:00.001-08:00

Day 11...

I LOVE...

That I won a PAID DAY OFF at work today!

It was staff appreciation week (our bosses are AWESOME like that!) We had lunch provided for us everyday, fun gifts and treats each day, and a daily raffle for gift cards and the final raffle was for a paid day off. HUGE! I will admit I put all but 4 of my tickets into the day off! (I think I had 22 tickets in the bucket, but I wasn't the only one who did that! ) You should have seen my reaction...when they called my name I jumped for joy. Don't get my wrong, I love my job, but who wouldn't want a paid day off? Craig and I are planning a long weekend in March and now I have an extra day with pay! GOT TO LOVE SURPRISES LIKE THAT!

Day 10

2011-02-10T13:09:00.000-08:00

Day 10

I LOVE...

chocolate covered gummy bears

(These sort of have a Hans Solo ... Empire Strikes Back look to them. STRANGE)

These have become my favorite treat! I love them!!! I think everyone has to have some treat that makes them happy! This would be that treat for me!

If you haven't tried them, you should!

Day 9

2011-02-10T12:59:00.001-08:00

Day 9...

I LOVE...

when our kids play together! It is one of the happiest times around here.

Our children are spread out...Caleb almost 15, Zach almost 11, Liberty almost 8 and Brit almost 2 (AHH! that sort of freaks me out! They can't get any older!!!) When they play together I LOVE IT!

This photo was taken just after Christmas, they pulled out Zach's marble track that he got for Christmas in 2009. They spent hour after hour on building different tracks. I loved that they let Brit be involved in it, even if he wasn't always cooperative and trying to wreck it.

Good times!

Day 8

2011-02-08T15:36:00.000-08:00

Day 8

I LOVE...

spending time with these great people

Today Craig, Brit and I went out to lunch with my cute parents. I am so blessed to have such amazing parents. We laughed and chatted about life, kids, old times and just about everything in between.

I love them very much! Thanks for a great afternoon!

Day 7

2011-02-07T11:47:00.000-08:00

Day 7 ...

I LOVE...

having a day off!

not that I am having as much fun as Ferris Bueller (classic movie in my book), but it has been great! Craig got the kids up and out the door this morning and let me sleep in until 10:00, which NEVER happens. I am doing exciting things like cleaning, vacuuming, laundry and other glamourous activities, but I am not complaining. The kids have early out today so the quiet will be gone soon. I better make the most of it while I have it!

Maybe on my next day off I should do something like this...

Enjoy your Monday!

Day 6

2011-02-06T12:52:00.000-08:00

Day 6...

I LOVE...

CUTE, COMFORTABLE PAJAMAS

I admit that I don't own a pair as cute as these, but I would love to. If it were up to me, pajama time would be right when I get home from work. I love to be comfortable. Is there anything wrong with that? But seriously, don't you want a pair of these...I found them here:

www.womenspajamas.com

Day 5

2011-02-06T12:42:00.001-08:00

Day 5 ...

I LOVE...

the smell of fresh laundry

Please don't mistake this for doing laundry...which I really dislike. It's just that yummy smell of laundry soap and fabric softener that makes me happy. Funny thing I have a fresh laundry smelling scentsy candle. Now if only I could grow to love doing laundry...I don't see that happening anytime soon! You should see the mountain I have waiting for me!

Day 4

2011-02-04T15:12:00.000-08:00

Day 4

I LOVE...

this view.

This is the view from my front door. I know that when I see this view, I am HOME! I love being home with my family. I feel happy, safe, & content.

Day 3

2011-02-03T20:29:00.000-08:00

Day 3

I LOVE...

Holiday Deocorations

I don't have a photo, but I am sure that this love comes from my childhood. My mom would decorate for every holiday. I LOVED IT! I have tried to do the same thing. Making the holidays more exciting. With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I put up the red & pink hearts everywhere. It is just a simple way to put a smile on my face. I hope that I can pass this simple tradition on to my children. Today, I made a heart garland out of red heart paper plates, and it may need some tweeking, but it's cute! I like it because it allows me to be creative. Picture may come soon...if I get around to it!

Fat Lips, Pink Sponge Curlers & Student Of The Month

2011-02-02T19:09:00.000-08:00

Brit got the fat lips. He was climbing into his high chair for dinner and slipped off. He was holding a play phone and it came back and him in the mouth. SO MUCH BLOOD. Luckily Craig was home because I don't handle blood so great. I will do it, but if he is home he does it for me. It left him with fat lips (upper and lower). He still has a cut on the bottom lip that is healing.

I took this picture of him a few hours after it happened, when he was calm and asleep.

OUCH!

Liberty has been begging for me to curl her hair. We finally got around to buying sponge curlers. After fixing a few spots with the curling iron it turned out pretty cute. The best part is it has lasted for 3 days. I love that idea.

Lib with her boing-a-boing-a curls.

Today when I went to pick up Caleb after weight lifting. He got in the car and told me that he was chosen as Student of the Month. He was given this certificate, a notebook, a Viking cup, pen and money (to use at the school store or something), a free meal at Cafe Rio, a free donut, and a free haircut. Pretty cool, huh! His picture will be hanging in the school this month also. I am going to have to go over and snap a photo of that soon. He has been working really hard at getting and keeping his grades up and it was noticed by his teachers and administration. Way to go Caleb! Keep up the good work!

MY STUDENT OF THE MONTH!

Day 2

2011-02-02T18:58:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day Countdown...

Day 2

I LOVE...

My phone. HTC Droid Incredible

I never thought I would ever say that. Because I am not huge into electronics (not at all)! But, I love this thing. It does everything I need it to do, call, text, check internet, take photos, play games, watch movies. I can't tell you how many times this has helped. Nothing better than quickly turning on a movie for Brit to settle him down.

Random I know... but I do stress when I don't have it with me when I leave the house.

Valentine's Day Countdown

2011-02-01T18:30:00.000-08:00

Because I loved doing this last year, I decided to make it a tradition. Starting today, Feb. 1st I will countdown things I love, until Feb. 14th...yes, there are more than 14 things I love but I will only list 14 of them. So here it goes!

Day ONE

I LOVE....

You can ask Craig...I get sort of giddy when I enter the store. I have definite favorites...which are: Scotchmallows, Tiperary Bon Bon, Scotch Kisses, Cashew Brittle to name a few. It's probably good that I don't go very often. But when I do I will purchase some candies (in a bag not a box) and hide them in my office. It's that kind of candy. It doesn't get put out on the counter. It is hidden. Maybe I am a a bit protective of my scotchmallows, sorry!

I'll Paint You A Picture

2011-01-23T14:10:00.000-08:00

This week has been great!

It went something like this...

Monday: Caleb taught a great lesson in FHE

Tuesday: I was able to go to a Stake RS Meeting in which Sister Julie Beck (General RS President) spoke to us. She was amazing! I loved every minute of it. She opened my mind and heart to many things.

Wednesday: I put some of the things I had learned Tuesday night into action and made the decision that it feels good to be aligned with good things.

Thursday: Craig and I were able to go to Ward Temple night. I always love going to the Temple but being surrounded by so many neighbors and friends makes it even better.

Friday: Craig and I went out on a date. That always make the week good.

Saturday: The Adult Session of Stake Conference. The speakers seemed to be just for me! I loved every one of them.

Sunday: Stake Conference General Meeting. Which again was very good. The talks and testimonies were presented so well. During this meeting I had a very unique experience. Let me paint the picture for you...

We were all sitting together which hasn't happened for about 6 months ... I thought to myself, this is great! Well, Zach was already squirming around asking if it was almost over. Brit was talking way to loud, Liberty was asking me to hand her crayons while she was trying to draw a picture, and Caleb said he needed some popcorn and had a wedgie. So that gives you an idea of how much I was hearing just before the rest hymn. When the rest hymn was announced as "Called to Serve" I got chills. So there I was in the middle of the chapel, and we all stood and began to sing. I looked to one side and had Zach standing next to me, sort of dancing as he sung, and I smiled. Brit begging to be picked up, so I did. Tall Caleb on the other side of me singing out, Liberty standing on the other side of Craig, trying not to be seen as she tried to step up on the pew. We all were standing and singing, I loved listening to my family sing this song, knowing every word to it. I teared up, and at that moment I realized that I was surrounded by my missionaries! My boys are growing so fast, it seems like just yesterday that it was Caleb begging to be picked up! It was a sweet experience to know and feel the strength that they all have. They have testimonies and they have a love for the gospel. I cried the entire song, and even after we all sat down. I feel so blessed to have such an amazing family. I love watching them grow up and yes it does make me cringe to think that in 5 short years Caleb will be heading out on his mission. I cringe from nerves and excitement. Just like every mother. I thought to myself...am I doing the things I need to to be able to teach my children by example. I realized again that I have a huge responsibility and I need to do more, be better and teach them. More tears came. My little moment was probably not noticed by any, but to me it just made my week all the better. I don't think I will ever forget today.

There's the picture, I hope I made it seem clear and not blurry. It was a great week for me, and I hope you too!

WHAT'S NEW???

2011-01-13T18:59:00.000-08:00

so far in 2011 i have been really bad at updating my blog...i will have to try to be better.

so if i were to run into something and they ask me "what's new?" this is what i would tell them...

*we all got back into school only to get sick and have to miss a day or two. no fun to be sick.

*i started teaching a new class. i now teach music m/w/f all day and a 2 year old class t/th mornings. yes, you heard right, i teach 2 year olds. i have 22 two year olds, (only 11 at a time), but i have my hands full, but i must say they are all adorable. I already love them!

*last sunday evening we went with liberty to her baptism preview. yes, i am struggling with the idea that she is going to be 8. i can't believe how fast she is growing up. she is very excited for her birthday and to be baptized, which makes me happy.

*brit finally learned the word yes...this was huge in our home! Considering he has been answering everything with the word no forever! we all jumped for joy when he first said it. he now will not only use yes, but also, yeah, and sure. it is very cute.

*craig and i celebrated our 16th anniversary. it is hard to believe that we have been married for 16 years, but we do have a son who is going to be 15 in 3 months so it all adds up! we had a fun date on tuesday night, dinner and movie. man i love that guy!

i can't think of anything else out of the ordinary. we still are busy everyday, but that is the way i like it.

just for fun, check out some great photos i have taken over the last few days.

brit with his favorite glasses...he wears them ALOT!

zach giving brit a ride on his rip stick...i am sure this is dangerous, but brit loved it!

caleb sporting liberty's snuggie upside down. snuggie pants he called it. nice!

2010 Highlights

2011-01-04T18:18:00.001-08:00

Before it gets further into the New Year...I thought I better jot down a few highlights of 2010!

Isn't it great that so many wonderful things can happen to one family? I must say that I am very blessed, beyond belief really. Many things happened some more memorable than others but here are a few I will never forget....

*Watching Caleb start as Quarterback. It was a rough start, but he ended up shining. He is a great player. I was one proud Mom.

*Craig being called to be the Bishop of our ward. Life changing, it really is.

*Witnessing a miracle (at least I think it was) happen to someone I LOVE very much.

*Brit turning 1. I can't believe how much joy one little boy can bring to a family.

*Liberty learning to cook and loving it. She looks forward to her cooking classes.

*Zach hitting a game changing hit in the Little League championship. He hit it to the fence and brought in a couple of runs. It was a tied game until that point. I was jumping up and down screaming like a mad woman!

*Being surrounded by AMAZING people everyday. Family, Friends, Co-workers, & Neighbors. I just hope I can be a great as they are.

Many great things happened in 2010! Mainly, just the day to day things that put a smile on my face made it a GREAT year! So here's to a SUPER 2011!

Christmas & New Years

2011-01-02T12:49:00.001-08:00

Just like every year Christmas and New Years came so quickly and is now past. Every year I stress myself out and then end up enjoying the season beyond belief. There is nothing better than spending time with family, eating all the yumminess that comes with the season, listening to Christmas music (and on occassion, singing them at the top of my lungs), having a break from school, and seeing the exciment and anticipation of the season. This year was TONS of fun! I must admit there were many simple traditions we didn't get to, because of schedules and meetings, but it was a great time of year for all of us! I took a ton of photos and after reviewing them I always think of other shots I wish I would have taken, but here's what I've got!

I warn you there are lots of photos!

*Christmas Eve @ Veenker Home*I wish I would have taken this photo before all of the festivities. We all look a little hashed, and I don't have a clue what Zach is doing, but here's our little family.

Caleb and Grammy, I don't know what was so funny.

Dad and Craig singing White Christmas (a tradition) but this year a nice kick line was added.

Brit waiting his turn to ring the bells.

Cousins hanging on the bean bag. I love these kids!

Cute photo of Grammy and Papa!

My cute children! Caleb 14, Zach 10, Liberty 7, Brit 22 months

*CHRISTMAS MORNING*
Note to self...Christmas PJ's are a must next year...they make photos so much cuter!

Liberty playing with her new iTouch. She loves it!

Caleb modeling some of his new clothes.

Zach with his new bike.

Brit checking out his new Shop Vac (it's a long story, but he LOVES it!)

Craig and the boys got remote control helicopters. Of course, one crashed on its first flight. This seems to happen every year, someone ends up crying about a broken toy, but we have been lucky enough to some how fix it or at least order a new part. This year it was Craig's who crashed. He was as sad as any little boy I've ever seen.

After all gifts were opened, I walked into the family room to see this. Brit loves his big brother.

*CHRISTMAS BRUNCH @ GRANDMA & GRANDPA'S HOUSE*

Craig and Brit, hanging out waiting to eat.

Flying helicopters

Traditional Nativity, complete with songs, narration and bells. (not photoed)

*WILLIAMS FAMILY CHRISTMAS PARTY @ MUTUAL DELL*

Liberty doing her part in Minute to Win It game. She was part of a human conveyor belt.

Brit just after his first time sledding, he had to be bundled up because it was COLD, but he is grinning ear to ear. When I opened up his hood, he smiled and said, "Again, Mom!"
Needless to say, he LOVED it!

*CABIN TRIP DECEMBER 28-31 @ FAIRVIEW LAKES*

Brooklynn, Brit and I riding in the snow cat to the cabin.

Kids watching one of the many ping pong tourny's that took place. While we were there we got about 3-4 feet of snow. So most of the time there was spent inside the cabin, not snowmobililng.

Craig in the middle of one of his games

The little girls planned an art show this year. It was a cute idea.

Brit enjoyed sitting by the window watching anyone who was brave enough to venture outside. It was FREEZING! At one point it was -4 degrees. That is without the wind chill. CRAZY COLD!

Everyone had a good time, even if we couldn't do what we came to do, snowmobile. The snow put a damper on that idea. The kids dug snow caves and tunnels, jumped off the roof into the snow, played games, painted fingernails, and thank heavens for itouch games, they saved the day! We joked that next year's Christmas cabin trip we need to order much better weather! We will have to see how that goes.

That's some of what we did, we had a great 2 week vacation and I am having a hard time grasping the idea of going back to school in the morning. I guess all good things come to an end.

Happy 2011!

Merry Christmas To You!

2010-12-23T15:38:00.001-08:00

Wishing you and yours the best Christmas! See you after the big day!

My Little Helper

2010-12-20T21:04:00.000-08:00

Seriously, who wouldn't want a LITTLE HELPER as CUTE as this guy...

I must admit, this boy puts a smile on my face everytime I look at him. He can make a mess like no other child I know, but he can also melt my heart in a second!

Check out how cute he looked as we walked out the door for church. After his hair cut he looked so grown up, that I had to lather him up in baby lotion, so he at least smelled like a baby.

My cute little helper!

Christmas Lights? Well Maybe Not!

2010-12-19T08:19:00.000-08:00

Last night I thought that we needed to spend some quality time together and do something to help the Christmas Spirit. We have been so busy this year we haven't had a chance to do many things to celebrate the season like we normally do. I thought okay, lets go see the lights at Temple Square. So we all bundled up and headed out the door.

We stopped for dinner and on the way out we were approached by a young man asking for money. I didn't have my wallet and Craig only had 3 dollars in cash, which he gave to him. (That plays into the story in a minute).

We headed to Temple Square, little did we know that it was going to be so crowded...our normal parking spot was totally full, and so was pretty much everything else. We decided to go for the pay parking, we were desperate. (can you tell how cheap we are) I pulled out my wallet and discovered that I only had 3 dollars cash. Just FYI there is nowhere in to park in SLC for $3. This is where the other $3 we gave to the young man could have been helpful! But we did a good thing by helping him out. (RIGHT?) So with some unhappy children we decided to see the lights just by drive-by. One child was very BUGGED! But we were stuck, in the middle of very busy, crowded, not a parking stall in sight (at least one we had money for) SLC. So, we made one more pass by, saw a few lights, and left!

(This is what we went to see...but sort of got jipped)

On the way home, with Brit asleep in his carseat, and one child still giving us the stink eye everytime we turned around. I had a brillant idea...Thanksgiving Point lights. They are drive thru. (And after making a phone call, I found out they take debit card.) Perfect solution, right? WRONG! Of course after we mentioned this to the kids and they seemed pretty jazzed, we drive up to the entrance only to find the line to get into the lights area was probably 4 miles (at least) bumper to bumper at a stand still. To this I had to scratch my head, it is a DRIVE THRU right? We quickly vetoed that because of the time and how slow it was moving...or not moving! Again our plan was busted! More stink eye!

(This should have been what we could have seen!)

So I took matters into my own hands, pulled out my phone and found great Christmas Light displays on YOU TUBE! We watched them the rest of the way home. I know, I know, nothing like the real deal, but I made everyone laugh when I pulled it out to show them some lights. Seriously, not what we had in mind but it will be one we remember that's for sure.
( You never know when You Tube will come in handy!)

One last idea of mine that actually worked! We stopped at the new Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in AF and grabbed a couple of apple pie carmel apples. They were a hit! Not to mention delicious! After one bite, the stink eye was gone and a smile lit up her face!

An interesting end to a very interesting evening! But it ended sweet!

Have a great week before Christmas!

Thanksgiving Day

2010-12-05T07:58:00.001-08:00

*Thanksgiving 2010*

This year for Thanksgiving we headed up to Draper to spend the day with my parents. It was a small group this year, a little bit different than normal, but still fun. For dinner we only had my parents, Cortney & 3 of her children (the others weren't able to come), and my family. We had a great day together, Craig & Sarah came over later in the day/evening too. I got all the photos mixed up and out of order, but oh well! Have a look at our fun day!

This was at the end of the day, Brit had so much fun, he zonked out on Grammy & Papa's bed.

Brit, Zach & Ross tackled/wrestled to entertain themselves.

Liberty and Julia had a great time with Grammy's melt beads.

Here we are getting ready to eat.

This year I was in charge of the Apple Salad. This is a tradition in the Peterson family. I have no idea who came up with the recipe, but it is tasty. Grandma Runner used to always make it and put it in this exact bowl. For tradition and sentimental reasons, I decided to use her bowl, I thought that was pretty cool.

Zach was sure he wanted the drumstick... After a few bites, he went with the white meat. He is his mothers son.

Liberty is ready and waiting for the FEAST!

Dad asked Craig to carve the bird this year, this was a first...I love how Dad is watching over Craig's shoulder to make sure it is getting done right.

I guess Brit was missing those of the family who weren't there, because I found him talking to the family photo.

Dad giving Craig instructions on how to carve a turkey.

Grammy and Liberty making a favorite treat of Grandpa Great's. Pecan filled dates rolled in powdered sugar. Adam liked them but none of my kids did.

It was a fun day! The food was great, being with family even better! I love Thanksgiving for more than just the food, I have so many things to be thankful for and it's always good to stop and reflect on those many blessings. I hope your Thanksgiving was as great as ours!

What Happens When Brit is Quiet

2010-11-24T15:55:00.001-08:00

While folding some clothes yesterday morning I had the thought...Brit is awfully quiet. Just after my thought, I heard Craig say, "Cricket, come here right now". I had no idea where Brit was, but headed into Craig's office to talk to Craig. As I walked down the hallway, I smelled something, but didn't think much of it. I got to the doorway of Craig's office and found Brit, covered in baby powder, but not just him, the whole corner of the room. Funny thing about this is Craig was in the same room and didn't notice it. He was one happy kid! Thinking he was pretty funny. All Craig and I could do was laugh.

Check it out!

Brit with powdered striped hair.

Part of the mess...look how proud he looks.

Here he is thinking this is great fun!

After I took a few photos, I grabbed the vacuum and with Brits help got it all cleaned up. We even vacuumed his clothes, which is wasn't too fond of. Oh well!

At least it wasn't Vaseline ... Caleb did that when he was close to Brit's age. That was horrible!

Scott and Andrea's Wedding

2010-11-18T05:57:00.000-08:00

*November 2, 2010*

Craig's little brother Scott was married to Andrea Gomez in the Mt. Timp Temple. It was a goregous day! They really lucked out with the weather. The bride and groom were both darling. It is strange to believe that Scott was only 5 when I met Craig now look he's all grown up and married. CRAZY!

The day was great filled with family, photos, food, laughs, and seeing friends that we haven't seen in a while.

Check out some of the photos of the day...

Scott and Andrea just after being sealed.

One of the nicest things about the day was having all of Craig's siblings together in the temple with their spouses. He comes from a great family.

Brit enjoying some time outside.

The bride and groom...snap shot taken by Liberty

Liberty posing by another sculpture.

Brit made me pretty nervous running around these sculptures...especially when I saw the price tag! YIKES!

Brothers...man I love these two boys!

Brit and me...before the reception started.

Veenker boys striking a pose by one of the many bronze sculptures.

All the cute Veenker girls...making funny faces.

Zach and Stockton found many different ways to kill time...ipod touch games was a favorite.

Liberty couldn't take her eyes off the cake. She was so excited to watch the bride and groom cut it.

Zach "helping" with decorating the car...looks to me like he is helping himself to the oreo cookies.

By the end of the night...Brit was one tired boy!

Congratulations Scott and Andrea!

Good One

2010-11-06T18:55:00.001-07:00

Before I tell you the full story, you need to know that this week I haven't done a thing in my house...it was a mess! Toys, laundry, 2 crock pots that were used this week "soaking" by the sink. It has been a busy week as usual and when I had the time, I didn't want to touch it. So to say that my house needed some attention is an understatement. I had nothing going Saturday morning so my plan was to get it cleaned up. So with that...

Last night we were getting ready to say our family prayer, all kneeling in the family room...and yes, we all had to scoot something out of the way before we knelt. We all went to bed early last night, mainly because Craig had an early morning meeting with Elder L. Tom Perry. After the prayer this is the conversation:

Craig: "You know, you may want to get the house cleaned up tomorrow"

Me: "I know, I plan on it."

Craig: "Cause it would be really awkward if Elder Perry asked to come over to our house tomorrow after the meeting for lunch."

Me: "YIKES! That would be embarassing, wouldn't it?"

Caleb: "I hope he likes Mac & Cheese!"

We all got a laugh...and yes it was a great motivator for me to get my house cleaned. There wasn't really a chance that it would have happened. But it made me laugh the way Craig finally found a way to get me to clean the house. Seriously, I would have been so embarassed if anyone had come over, (which some people did), but I would have DIED if Elder Perry came over with my house looking like it did. This morning was a very productive morning. I got almost everything done, of course there is still a few loads of laundry to do. But my house is cleaned up, so if you were thinking of stopping by, now would be a good time.

Freshman Viking Football

2010-11-01T18:48:00.000-07:00

Caleb had an exciting football season. This year he played both Outside Linebacker and Defensive End, and also played Quarterback. The final 2 games (playoffs) he started as Quarterback. He did a great job all year. He is a big kid, and does a great job wherever he plays. It was both exciting and nerve racking to watch him at QB. There season ended in the second round of the playoffs, but overall they did great! Caleb has had a unique experience, he has played with the same team and same coaches for 4 years now. Sadly, that came to an end on Saturday. The boys will continue just with new coaches next year. There were tears both from the boys, coaches and parents. It's been a great run! I can't wait to see what next year brings. It is always exciting! Here are some of the shots we took of Caleb's season...

Caleb talking to his head coach Joe after a win.

Caleb was one of the captains for a few of the games.

Here he is ready to jump off the line.

He wants it...bad!

Waiting to get back on the field

Caleb is in the middle of the wedge. (I promise)

Caleb making a pass, I took this one from high up in the stands, I love how you see him, the ball & the receiver.

Caleb handing off the ball

Watching the outcome of the play

The season is over...it's been a ton of fun! We are already working for next year. Can't wait to see how it all plays out! Great Job #8!!!

Zach Football Season

2010-11-01T17:52:00.000-07:00

Zach had a great season! We were able to use a friends camera, to try and get some action shots. I am far from a photographer but I tried. This year Zach played both ways & on special teams. He played Center on offense, Outside Linebacker on defense, and was the kicker on special teams. He rarely sat out, it was fun to watch him. His team made it to the play offs, and lost in the first round. Good Job Zach! Can't wait to watch you next year!

Here are some of the shots we took...

It wasn't unusual to have Craig give Zach a pep talk, or give him pointers.

Zach jumping to get the tackle
Getting ready to kick off

Waiting for the quarterback...

Down, Set, Hike

Waiting for the second half to start

This year Zach's cousin Stockton & his cousin Shafer joined the team. It was so much fun to watch them all. (This picture was taken just after the playoff loss, that is why Shafer is in tears.)

Blocking, blocking, blocking

Zach rushing in...

Way to go #1! Go Vikings!

Fall Break Fun!

2010-10-18T16:07:00.000-07:00

There's nothing better than having a break from school! We always look forward to the Fall Break that falls in mid October. It is a great way to rejuvinate and enjoy being with family. We started the break off with McKinsey's 16th Birthday party which was held at Jump On It! I don't know how I didn't get a photo of the birthday girl but the party was tons of fun!

Here is Liberty doing a front flip...

Brit was in HEAVEN! Wall to wall trampolines...what else could a kid ask for?
Caleb catching some air while jumping...

Liberty was loving doing kart wheels all over the place
Zach doing a front flip off the platform...

Even Craig got in on the flip action...

It was a great party!

The next morning we gathered up our stuff and headed to the cabin. We decided to actually go somewhere for the weekend. It was so nice up there, the weather was perfect, the leaves were crunchy and falling, a perfect fall weekend. Sadly, just after Craig and the boys got home from scouting deer, Craig got sick, and the following day Zach wound up throwing up also. That was a bummer, but even with that we still managed to have fun!

Brit couldn't get enough of the 4 wheelers...he loved them, but still can't get used to the weight of his helmet and would wobble all over the place. That didn't stop him from wanting rides.

Here's some of the group making campfire pizzas.

Liberty relaxing on the elk statue

This boy was in heaven...drinking apple juice and eating cheetos all weekend long.

Zach still feeling a bit yucky.

Liberty waking up Saturday morning...I wish she woke up this happy every morning.

Zach in deep thought, waiting his turn for the swing.

Some of the kids eating cinnamon rolls just waiting to take off to go to the Snow College football game in Ephriam.

It was a great weekend. I love that we were able to go and do something. Nothing is better than spending time with family!

Fall Ride

2010-10-10T17:40:00.001-07:00

Every year we talk about going on a Fall drive to the Alpine Loop. This year we actually did it. We probably missed the peak of the awesome colors but it was a very fun day. We put everyone in the car and took off.

We headed up Provo Canyon...of course honked all the way through the tunnel and headed up to Sundance.

Here I captured some of the colors out my window. It was a goregous day for a drive. Windows down and nice breeze coming into the car.

More colors out my window. The nice paved road all the way up the canyon was lovely...little did I know we were in for an adventure!

I caught Caleb in my side mirror hanging out the window.

Seriously, it was beautiful up there!

Just after taking this photo Craig decided to be adventurous...he turned on to the bumpiest road EVER! We were driving along the face of Mt. Timpanogas. It was pretty cool but he bumps, and dips, and jiggles weren't my favorite. Just look at the road...we drove on this road for like 2 hours. It was so bumpy! I wasn't loving it.

Craig kept telling us to watch for wildlife...I really didn't think we would see anything. We headed into a tree filled area, when all of the sudden Craig (looking to his left) yells, "THERE'S A MOOSE!" We all sort of freaked out, some with excitement, some thinking get me out of here! We were all watching the moose on the left when Caleb freaks out and yells... "THERE'S THE BULL MOOSE!" It just happened to be on my side of the car...if you know me, I don't like animals especially in the wild. I freaked out, yelling at Craig to roll up my window and he wouldn't...Zach was jumping up and down in the very back, Lib was hiding under a blanket, Craig started snapping pictures, Caleb and Brit were laughing. I didn't handle myself very well...I was sure it was going to charge our car and we would be stranded up on the crazy road for days. Craig started driving and honking trying to push the moose out in front of us...which meant I freaked out more. I was able to get this photo of the bull moose while shaking. It was staring us down, I swear it was!

After it ran across the road Craig continued on and found a spot to turn around, on the way back down the road, Craig saw them again and decided to get out of the car and take some more photos...he tried to get there attention by whistling, and having Caleb honk the horn.

It was a great adventure! One I am sure we won't forget. After all was calm and we were on the bumpy road heading home...we all got a great laugh at how I was freaking, and Craig said it wasn't a very big moose...but it seemed pretty big to me!

Next year we will be going a few weeks earlier, hoping to see the colors at their best!

Happy Fall Y'All!

One Year Older & Wiser Too!

2010-10-03T11:54:00.001-07:00

My birthday came and went...it was such a great day. I was spoiled by my family and friends and it made me that much better! :0)! Craig surprised me at work by delivering a cake that had candles lit and teachers singing when I walked in to lunch. I came home to another surprise...a new dishwasher! I was jumping for joy, after not having a working dishwasher for over 5 months, it was a perfect gift. I love it! The family tried to make me a cake, the first round was a disaster, the second time it came out fine and the kids did a bang up job decorating it. By the time it was finished, Craig was beyond frustrated. Thanks for the great day!

Here is the first attempt...pans were over filled and then spilled out.

attempt number 2

the finished project...the kids decorated it.

don't mind that i can't put an outfit together at age 37! I was in my jammies and it was cold so i threw on a sweatshirt. I know it's a great combo!

me making my wish! let's hope it comes true!

It was a great birthday! Thanks to everyone for the wonderful facebook wishes and all the love sent my way!

Grovecrest Carnival

2010-09-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

Grovecrest PTA Fall Carnival

Nails painted by Mrs. Day (I think) a sixth grade teacher. Of course she picked bright pink!

Lib gettting her hair done.

Liberty sitting very still to have her face painted.

Lib racing her teacher...Lib won...(I'm sure that wasn't intentional at all!

The finish products...both up-do (above) and face paint (below)

Once again the elementary put on a great carnival...the kids had a great time! This year it was just Liberty and I. Zach for whatever reason didn't want to go, so we counted it as a GNO (Girls Night Out).

This year they had some great booths...girly things (even better if you ask me!) But still had the traditional carnival games as well. Lib took full advantage of having her nails painted, hair done and face painted. She was all dolled up by the time we left. She was even thoughtful enough to use some of her tickets to get the boys a treat at the bake sale booth. Of course she got them the "Y" sugar cookies.

After glam and fun we stopped and grabbed some nachos (a perfect carnival snack) and headed home. One of the things I loved about this carnival is watching Lib interact with so many of the other kids. It is so much different with her then with the boys...she is social. Not that the boys are mutes, but they don't run around saying hello to everyone they see like she does. So fun to watch!

The PTA did a great job! It was a perfect GNO for Lib and I!

Labor Day 2010

2010-09-09T10:45:00.000-07:00

LABOR DAY 2010

Brit was in HEAVEN all day long. He loves being outside, so maybe this day was for him!

Both these photos are blurred, but you can see just how much fun he has! He's such a cutie!

If only you could see his grin clearly!

See I was there...lugging my little man up the mountain.

Caleb with the falls behind him. They really are pretty cool.

Liberty posing on a cool rock.

Zach at the falls. This kid is so funny, the first thing he did was find a hiking stick along the trail.

The gang (minus me) taking a break while heading down the trail.

We all slept in a little bit on Labor day, which was nice. We are constantly going and doing and any chance we get to sleep in is super exciting around here! After breakfast we were trying to decide what to do...after many ideas were thrown around we decided to take advantage of our surroundings and take a hike. It is so funny that we live right at the base of the mountains and we hardly visit them.

We decided to hike up to Battlecreek Falls (I really don't know if that is what the true name is but that is what we call it!) We grabbed our water bottles and the baby pack and took off. It was a great activity. It didn't take forever (which was nice, because we were packing a 30 pound toddler on our back!), it was different and way fun. I won't lie to you, both Craig and I were huffing a bit, and yes we felt the burn! We blame all that on Brit! It was a ton of fun! After we got to the falls, we played around a little bit but it was still a bit cool, and the water was FREEZING! We snapped a few photos and headed back down. We grabbed some KFC and headed to the park. One of our favorite parks in AF. There is nothing like watching Brit at a playground, the kid is in HEAVEN! The older kids just let the inner child out and we all have a ball.

It was a great activity for our day off. I am sure we will venture out and do it again soon. I hope your Labor Day was as exciting and as fun as ours!

Mighty Caleb

2010-08-31T09:26:00.000-07:00

While checking out some blogs that I haven't looked at in a while I found this photo on my niece McKinsey's. Even though I was all alone at the time...I busted out in laughter. I don't know why but this just doesn't seem like my Caleb. I guess EFY does some things to your child and you don't realize. Everytime I look at it I laugh. The caption said "Caleb being Mighty". I can't wait to hear the story behind this one.

It's so unlike him...but I guess what happens at EFY stays at EFY!

HA! HA! HA! (Me still laughing!!!)

I love my MIGHTY CALEB!

Back To School

2010-08-28T14:21:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that summer is over and we are back to school. Check out how cute my kiddos are on the first day of school.

BRIT

When we asked him who was going to go to school with Mom he raises his hand. So cute. Brit is only 18 months but comes to school with me 2 days a week. He is doing pretty good...both days he has ended up sleeping in my classroom. I'm not complaining!

LIBERTY
Liberty is in 2nd Grade and even though she was disappointed that she didn't get the teacher she wanted, she loves her teacher. She will do great! Check out the cutest skirt and flower I made her the night before school started. I think it turned out so cute!

ZACH
Zach is in 4th grade. He LOVES his teacher and can't stop talking about him. Seriously, he is the topic of many conversations around here. It should be a great year!

CALEB

My big 9th grader. This photo is a bit dark but he is such a cute kid. I love how he handles new unchartered territory. He has some good classes. It will be a great year.

Have a great school year!

He's Our Bishop!

2010-08-28T13:56:00.001-07:00

On July 11, 2010 Craig was called to be the Bishop of our ward. We had known for 2 weeks about the call and during that time we were both amazed at the comfort we felt. I struggled with doubt of how we would handle everything, but the day before the announcement had a wonderful comforting experience. Truly an answer to prayers. We feel very blessed to be able to serve our great ward in this capacity. We love the members of our ward so much. It was said the day of his call that we were in for a "new adventure", which is so true. But we feel blessed and happy to take on the adventure.

He was so embarassed to have me take this picture, but come on we have to document these things! This was a week after he was called.

After church every week the kids go in and see Craig before we go home. It gives them a chance to say goodbye and talk to him a little bit.

Just Me Rambling...

2010-08-10T19:52:00.001-07:00

*Let me first say that I am BORED! Although I have a list of things to do that is a MILE long...I still feel bored.

*I can feel summer slipping away from us, which makes me sad and happy at the same time.

*I want to take these last few days of summer SUPER DUPER for my kids but everyone's schedules are crazy right now so that is being put on hold.

*If I have to pick up one more wrapper off the ground, when a trash can is 5 steps away from it, I just may scream.

*I don't want to do anymore laundry, I will NEVER be caught up completely! It's time to face it.

*I NEED a vacation! I don't have the money for one but I think I NEED it!

*My kids are growing up WAY to fast! Every once in a while I stop and just stare at them, and wonder where the time goes.

*My computer is broken, something weird...who knows. It's buggy!

*I think I need to add some color to my house...I am drawn to blues right now, do you think that means anything?

*Is already thinking about Halloween costumes...I guess when you are in charge of the school Halloween programs you begin to worry about these things!

*Is excited to announce our Back To School Theme (a new tradition for our family) next week at FHE...I think it will be fun!

*I love that Liberty wants to play with my hair on a nightly basis...I LOVE having my hair done.

*I miss Craig...he is VERY busy right now, with work, being Bishop and everything in between, I miss seeing him all the time.

Okay, enough of my rambling! Don't worry, I am fine...I just needed to say what I have been thinking!

(hopefully fun photos to come of what we've been up to...just as soon as my computer is up and going! Can't wait!)

Someone's 38 Today!

2010-07-27T19:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Craig!

Got up

went to work

worked really hard

computer decided to delete all work that had been done today

got stressed out

came home to a decorated house, balloons, banners, presents, and cake

ate his favorite meal...steak, garlic lime shrimp, and fruit salad

changed into suit

went to meetings

Another happy day in the life of Craig!

I got some awesome photos of Craig blowing out his huge flame of candles. But the computer/photo thing still isn't working.

He is such a great dad, and husband. We all love him so much. Thanks for making our family such a great one!

Happy Birthday to YOU!

2010-07-21T16:58:00.001-07:00

I am pretty bummed my computer is totally flipping out right now. I haven't been able to get my photos onto Craig's computer which sort of makes me even more crazy! I am a blogger who loves pictures...but this post will just be without!

Tons has been going on around here...both boys had there State Baseball Tournament last week, we went to 12 games in 3 days. In 100 degree weather (okay, I don't know if it really was 100 degrees but it sure felt like it!) I will admit the thought crossed my mind that it would be nice on the crazy schedule if they both lost in the first round. Well, that's now how it panned out...which was even better. Both teams made it to the final round. Caleb was playing in Lehi and Zach in PG both at the exact same time. We had to divide and conquer! Craig went to Lehi and I was in PG. We sent texts back and forth to keep each other up to date.

Caleb's team battled back in their first game and but still lost by 1. So sad! They ended up taking 3rd place all around. It was a great team! Caleb played hard and got some great hits and made some great plays. His batting average for the season was 802. Pretty good, or so I'm told...I really don't get all that jazz!

Zach's team did super! They completed a perfect season. Winning every game including all their tournament games. The championship game was going great and then the other team rallied and came back to tie the game, sending us to extra innings. Zach got an AMAZING hit in the extra inning...hitting it all the way to the fence bringing in a few runs! The crowd went wild...I started jumping up and down but had to quit cause I thought I was going to wet my pants I was so excited. They ended up winning because of that hit and some great playing in the field.

Two Sunday's ago...a big change came about in our home. Craig was called to be the Bishop of our ward. We had known for 2 weeks, and it was so hard knowing and not being able to talk about it. We both were in sort of a haze, but once he was called the haze was lifted and he jumped right in. It is so strange to hear people refer to him as Bishop Veenker. I am still not used to it and he still thinks they are talking about his dad. Things are running smooth at the home front, we are just adjusting to not having him around in the evenings. But knowing what he's doing seems to comfort everyone. Brit makes him feel so great, he is always so excited to see him when he walks in the door. He even thought it would be fun to join him on the stand this past Sunday. His behavior was perfect up there...I jokingly said maybe he should just sit up there every Sunday.

Summer seems to be winding down. I can't believe how fast it goes. I honestly don't like the thought of it being over! But, I sadly have no control over that! Football is just a week away...which means the crazy schedule will begin again! The 2 week break was nice!

Happy Summer!

Oh What Do You Do In The Summertime?

2010-07-06T19:14:00.000-07:00

WHAT DO YOU DO IN THE SUMMERTIME, WHEN ALL THE WORLD IS GREEN?

DO YOU...

Hit a baseball...

*caleb playing in the pg city tourny. (he did hit this ball...it just bounced straight down...and yes he made it to 1st*

Do you scoot on a scooter?

*brit loves to ride the scooters*

Win a trophy...

*zach just after awarded his trophy for the dbacks coming in 1st*

Go play tennis...

*brit and i hanging at the tennis courts*

*lib taking a swing*

Swim in a pool, to keep yourself cool...

*zach and lib while taking swimming lessons*

Play Quarterback...

*caleb playing quarterback while attending a football camp at the UofU*

Go to Strawberry Days Parade...

*brit, lib, and i went to the grand parade together. brit loved it to say the least*

Do cart wheels all the day long...

*give lib a little bit of space and you will find her doing this*

Live at the ballpark...

*zach at one of his Irish baseball games*

Swing in a swing...

*brit loves being outside, and put the boy in a swing and you have one happy camper*

Is that what you do??? SO DO I!

*hope your summer is going as great as ours! i just wish it would slow down, it is going by way to fast!

Caleb Goes to EFY

2010-06-22T14:11:00.001-07:00

The second week of summer Caleb and his 2 cousins, Christopher and McKinsey went to EFY down in St. George. They seem to have had a great time. I wish I could get more info out of Caleb...it will come in time. He just isn't a man of many words. I totally forgot to send Caleb with a camera so I stole some of McKinsey's photos. (Thanks Kins!)

Each night I either texted or talked with Caleb, it was fun to see how on Monday he was still worried about what was going on at home and as the week went by he asked less about his baseball team (who played 2 games that week) and wanted to tell me what had happened that day.

Neither Craig or I went to EFY but when the opportunity came for Caleb to go we sort of made him. I don't know that he was thrilled about it but I think it was a great experience and to be able to go with his 2 great cousins made it that much better. He got to know many new people who were from neighboring states.

One night he called and told me they had a dance and he said it was fun. A girl had asked him to dance and in his words, "it was fine, until she told me she was 17!" I just started laughing. I knew people would assume he was older. That had to boost the ego a bit!

He had fun and learned lots. I guess the 3 of them are trying to figure out where they want to go next year. Which makes me happy!

Check out some of the photos of his week...

Caleb and McKinsey

Caleb in class (he looks so excited, doesn't he!)

Who knows...Caleb and Christopher jumping.

This one caught me off gaurd, but made me laugh at the same time. The caption on facebook was written by this girl (ella) it said,

"Me and Caleb.. In case you didnt know.. we were secretly in love!!"

What? I need to get to the bottom of this one! But what makes me laugh about this photo is...notice he isn't even touching her! That's my boy!

The caption on this one was I actually got him to smile! Maybe he was a grumpy gus all week long!

Caleb and more girls...cute!

Caleb making blankets for a service project. I asked him how that went and he said, "I sort of messed it up!" That sounds like him, when it comes to crafty things.

Chris and Caleb they must be tired, or hot, or both.

Cute cousins, I love these guys

This was on the drive down to St. George early Monday morning.

While packing, I think I stressed Caleb out a little bit, I made him worry about making sure he matched and not to wear certain shirts with certain shorts. I know, my son is 14 but I didn't want him walking around looking a mess. So he finally asked me to label everything. I hope I don't have to do this when we pack for his mission! :0)!

Of course we had to send snacks of all kinds! Funny thing, he came home with almost half of them untouched. He told me it was because they weren't in their hotel room enough.

I hope he had a great time!

I know he grew closer to his great cousins!

Liberty's Gymnastics Recital

2010-06-11T12:30:00.000-07:00

Liberty had her gymnastics recital in early May and I am just getting to blogging it. She has been taking gym for a few years now, and it is so much fun to see how she has improved. Not to mention how cute she looks in her little gymnastics suits. (Oh, to have the cute body of a 7 year old!) What was really impressive was how far up the climbing rope she got, she is one strong girl. She was so close to the ceiling...I kept trying to cheer her on, to get her to go to the top, but her strong arms were shaking. She went WAY higher than I could. She did her floor routine to a song that has become a new favorite. It's Dream Big, written for American Idol David Cook. Great song! Look how cute she is...(the photos are out of order but no biggy!)

Balance beam.

Liberty on the bars

Cute cousins, McKinsey and Liberty!

Liberty doing the "ta-da" pose!

Liberty patiently waiting to do her floor routine.

Nice bridge!

Liberty doing the warm-up number.

Starting this summer she has been moved up a level and will now go every week for 90 minutes. She is pretty excited to learn how to do a back handspring. WHA-HOO!

Keep it up Lib!

Big 10!

2010-06-09T16:55:00.000-07:00

This is the birthday boy! My cute Zach turns 10 today. It has been a pretty low key day, which is totally how he likes it. He had visits from grandparents, which is something he loves. He asked for a tennis racket and got it, and told me "look out mom, now I am going to whoop you!"

That's my Zach. I love this kid, I love watching him everyday, I wish that I could jump into his thoughts and listen...he comes up with some pretty funny things! He's a great athlete, fun to be around, sensitive, adventurous, friendly, easy going, and has a great personality.

Happy Birthday Zach!

We Love You!

Proud As Punch!

2010-06-06T12:22:00.001-07:00

Yes, I know that I still have many things to blog about ... but I had to do a quick post on something that is currently going on. Craig's work is in the Utah County Parade of Homes. He has put in a ton of time and effort into making this house amazing...and well, pretty much it is! If you live near by you should check out house #16. It is spectacular! Thursday I had a chance to walk through and I was so proud of Craig. Craig did some amazing designs. I love the entire thing. If you don't know, Craig designs cabinets. Check out some of his work!

Oh first...check out this house! I told you it was spectacular! It's like 15,000 square feet. CRAZY BIG!

One view of the kitchen...I love the hood and stove/oven.

Another angle of the kitchen.

While we were walking through Craig got a call that he had to take. I love this photo! Can you find the fridge and freezer? Someday! I can always hope!

One bathroom on the main floor.

The basement kitchen...so cool...they have a brick pizza oven just off to the left of this photo. Very cool!

One shot of the craft room...this room is a crafters dream, tons of room and tons of cabinets to hide all your stuff!

The mater bath...very nice!

These photos are okay but the real life house is incredible. I love how they turned out. I only took photos of the cabinets, you should see the other parts of the house, murals, fun kids rooms, indoor pool, cool fish tank, flat screens EVERYWHERE! But I must say, I am a proud wife...my hubby done good! Way to go Craig, we found out he won some time of award, we just aren't sure what it is yet! WHA-HOOO!

For info on the Parade go here:

http://www.utahparade.com/bf/mem/

Week of Fun!

2010-05-27T18:31:00.000-07:00

Here's what's been going on around our neck of the woods this past week!

RANDOM LATE MAY SNOW STORM

We looked at the window and what did we see...our poor tent almost flattened.

Monday we woke up to snow, lots of it, and it was HEAVY! We had the tent up drying from the Fathers & Sons outing which was over the weekend. I knew we should have put it up on Sunday but we didn't and due to the heaviness of the snow and the trees that have grown leaves we had a slight mishap. Our poor tent was the victim, which I must say I am glad it was only the tent. While Craig and I were out trying to drag the huge branches off the tent, another large branch came cracking down...we scrambled to get out of the way, and had to wait until the snow stopped to clear it off. Surprisingly we only got one L shaped hole (about 6 inches) and one crushed pole. But considering a huge part of the tree fell on it, the damages weren't as bad as it could have been.

CHARACTER DAY @ KIDS VILLAGE

Storybook Character dress up day...can you guess who I am? The Man in the Yellow Hat from Curious George. A big thanks to my cutest neighbor for letting me use this costume. It was a hit. But let's just say, yellow isn't my color!

DANCE FESTIVAL @ GROVECREST

Liberty doing her elephant dance to that elephant march song from Jungle Book. (I don't know the name)

Zach striking a pose while doing his dance to "I Can Fly" from Peter Pan

Zach with his wonderful 3rd grade teacher Mrs. Guerrero

Liberty with her AWESOME teacher Mrs. McKell

WACKY WEDNESDAY

Seriously the things you have to do as a teacher, but it all paid off when I walked into my art room and had all the kids chanting CRICKET! They pretty much think I'm cool! (Not all teachers did this, only 4 of us) Craig just shook his head when he saw me, and wouldn't even help me take some stuff to the car, he was too embarassed. I can only imagine what the guy at the bank drive thru thought of me.

FUN RUN 2010

Liberty after running 3/4 of the track. She did great she placed like 6th. Way to go Lib!

Zach refreshing himself with some Powerade after his run...he came in 6th. Both he and Lib said that they didn't want to run this year! Sorry, not an option! I made them!

EIGHTH GRADE COMPLETION CEREMONY

Caleb heading to pick up his certificates, just missed the handshake with the principal.

He did it, he completed 8th grade with a 3.3 GPA. I am having such mixed emotions ... he is such a great kid, but as his mom, I can't believe he will be in 9th grade! It stresses me out one minute and then I get so excited for him and for what is coming up for him in a few years. AHH this motherhood thing is such a roller coaster! Great job Caleb!

BRIT TRYING TO HANDLE ALL THIS COMMOTION!

Overall he did great, but he did have his moments! If you haven't heard Brit's new way of communication, feel lucky. He has a very high pitched scream, and I am sure that everyone was happy see him at all these events. I keep saying, "I can't wait for him to talk". The scream is crazy!

So there you have it! All this and throw in a few baseball games, meetings, and parties, and that's what we've been up to! Can you say we are SO ready for summer break!

Miss Veenker 2010

2010-05-22T17:13:00.001-07:00

Miss Veenker 2010

It's that time of year again...Miss Veenker Pageant took place last weekend. We had to plan it while Jen and Clint were visiting...so it was sort of a quick throw together but as usual it turned out great! This year the men decided while we were having fun they should to, the went and played Laser Tag and Bowling and after everyone's fun we all met up for ice cream sundaes. The girls did great presenting, active wear, evening wear and talent. We had everything from, dancing, piano, singing, violin, poem reciting for talent. The evening gowns were darling as usual. And just watching the girls all being together and involved was the best part. We invited Scott's girlfriend Andrea and her little sister to join us. Andrea is a Zumba instructor, so after the main event we all did Zumba. It was a BLAST! I can't wait to do it again. It was such a fun night, just being with family enjoying each others company. Here's just a few photos of the night!

Grandma crowned all the little girls.

Liberty in her evening gown.

Liberty doing her talent...she didn't just stand there, she is singing The Climb.

Liberty's active wear

One of the funniest things of the night, Mom pulled out her video camera to tape everyone. No need to say it's old...it speaks for itself!

Great job girls...I can't wait for the next one!

Sprouting Simple Seeds of Faith

2010-05-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

Back in March my mother in law was asked to prepare a booth for the BYU Women's Conference. The booth would be part of the Sharing Stations which were held Thursday evening. She asked my sister in law Lori and I to help her. Honestly, the timing wasn't ideal but I willingly said yes. I will admit it was a great experience. I had a lot of fun preparing everything and actually having the chance to sit at the booth on Thursday night. We spent many hours compiling ideas of what we wanted to share with the sisters who would come and visit our booth.

We went with a gardening theme, and our topic was Sprouting Simple Seeds of Faith. (I laughed when ladies would walk by and start to ask me about sprouting broccolli...which I know NOTHING about, they just assumed when they saw the gardening things in our booth we were sharing ideas on actual gardening.) We came up with ideas that can be used in families of all ages to encourage and help faith to grow in each individual. We had to make up some handouts,

which can be found here:

http://ce.byu.edu/cw/womensconference/archive/2010/sharing_stations/19.cf

They are full of awesome info that I am sure every household could use some of the suggestions. I learned a lot, my eyes were opened to what I could and should be doing in our home, and I loved having a chance to be a part of the whole event. We had a great response to our booth, it looked great, and I am sad that for whatever reason they didn't post a photo of our booth, but luckily I took on of my own, check it out and see for yourself. I wish I would have taken a photo of the 3 of us who worked on it in front of the final product.

The night of the event, I was totally excited. I have been to Women's Conference before and in all honesty there is a strength that I get when I am surrounded by women. I loved the feeling I got talking to women from all over, even seeing people from my ward growing up and just being surrounded by women who are trying just like I am to do what is right.

Many people asked how we were asked to do a booth, and for us my mother in law had a friend who asked her...and at first she was overwhelmed (and I don't really know if that ever went away for her. I think we all were overwhelmed...however, when it came down to the wire, I LOVED IT! I am so glad I had the experience to be a part of such a great night.

Check out the link...there is tons of great info...there were about 50 booths, all with wonderful info...I promise it would be time well spent. Enjoy!

Here's The Scoop

2010-05-12T19:18:00.000-07:00

So here's the deal...for whatever reason today while driving down to work I was thinking about growing up. One thing I totally remember doing was walking to Thrifty's to get an ice cream cone. I remember it looking a little like this with some slight differences. Even down to the window being covered by the menu.

(photos found on Google)

The thing about Thrifty's ice cream that made it different was the shape of the scoop. (Maybe no one even has a second thought about the shape of the scooper but I do!) It wasn't the norm...it was way cooler! (I can even remember how the scooper sounded. I know I am strange!) It looked something like this (see photo below)...but this doesn't do it complete justice. It was much more boxy when first scooped.

I remember it didn't cost more than like 30 cents for a double...(maybe I am way off my rocker, but that is what I remember!) If you got a double it was almost a balancing act to keep the second scoop secured on the bottom scoop. A triple was a joke, if I do say so myself...it wasn't uncommon to walk out of Thrifty's and see dropped scoops of ice cream of all flavors, because someone wasn't paying close attention to the top scoop.

I'll never forget my favorite flavors...Chocolate Malted Crunch and Pistachio Cashew (it was green). I don't even know if Thrifty's is still around, and if it is if they sell ice cream. Those days are long past maybe, but for some reason I thought about it on my way home.

After thinking about it for awhile, I somehow (in my own crazy way) tied it into how I have been feeling lately. We are SO busy around here! It isn't uncommon for our family to have multiple things every day and night of the week. Everyone is involved and I love it that way, with baseball games and practices (Caleb playing on one team & Zach playing on 2 teams), gymnastics for Liberty, church callings, work, Caleb's quarterback clinic at the high school, and just everything thing else that is thrown in, we are CRAZY BUSY! But I can't complain too much because everything we are involved in is good and fun. We are happy. But for whatever reason, I can't seem to find time to complete laundry, mop my floor, you know just the general house cleaning stuff that should be getting done. I sort of feel like I am living a Triple Cone life right now....where I am having to balance it with everything I have to enjoy it. (There I finally got to the tie in). Oh, just like the ice cream, life is great, but I am having to seriously concentrate on keeping it all together. There that is my deep thinking of my drive home today, I know it is as crazy as could be. But just like all the many times I went to Thrifty's with my family or friends and loved it, I will look back on this time of life and love it too....RIGHT???

So there, that's my scoop!