Got Kids?

Nothing like starting the week with 16 kids! Good morning Monday! Yep, 16 kids! Good times. We do a baby sitting Co-op in our neighborhood and I have every-other Monday morning. Meaning I have to be home from 9-12 to watch kids for whomever may need it. I usually only have about 4-6...today was especially busy. We have tickets to pay and keep trackof time and I can say when I'm too full (um, like today!) Although today was a bit crazy, they were all very well behaved. I really love being part of it...errands, volunteering, lunch, whatever I need

*without kids*

is available to me any day of the week until 3pm.

Pretty good trade off!

Easter Highlights

*COLORING EGGS*DINNER AND EGG HUNT WITH BOTH GRANPARENTS*HAM & POTATOES*TOO
MUCH CANDY*LOTS OF FUN!!

Start 'em young

I hoped that starting the dental visits when my kids are young would curb the fear and the cavities. I've only had partial success with this theory...genetics has it's way of making itself known! (Sarah got her mother's teeth...so sorry) While the older kids had their cleanings and check-ups, I thought it would be a good opportunity to introduce Jenna to the comforts of the dental chair (something her mom knows a little too well). After watching her siblings, she quickly got into the chair and opened her mouth right up! I was so impressed that she did so good. Dr. Dan (as we call my brother) got a quick look. Hopefully when we have a more extensive visit with her (i.e. cleanings, x-rays and heaven forbid, cavities) she'll be ready.

Her Special Day

Julie is the primary journalist in our family (she does a great job on this blog stuff). She rarely features herself in any of her posts and I thought it was only appropriate to add an entry for her. She celebrated her 3Xth birthday last week. I decided to refrain from posting her age although most of you most likely know it already. On the evening of March 14th, Julie took Sarah to a local production of Beauty and the Beast. Since that day was so busy with activities I asked if we could celebrate her B-Day on the 15th. I can tell she was a bit disappointed but conceded nonetheless. While she was gone the boys and I wrapped some gifts, hung some streamers and put candles on her favorite cake (the lemon creme cake from Olive Garden). I had the boys stay up with me so that we could surprise her when she got home. We got the camcorder ready and shot her as she came in. I'm pretty sure she was pleasantly surprised.

Julie is the ingredient in our family that makes things turn out perfect. She typically is the one that makes our kids birthdays so special. IMO, she deserves to have a day where she can fell celebrated as well and not just because it's her birthday. WE LOVE YOU, MOM/JULES!!

Another milestone for Josh

I am quickly finding out that we are reaching many milestones with Josh right now! Last week, he had the opportunity to go to the Jordan River Temple to do baptisms. He was so excited to have the chance to go inside the temple. This was such a special opportunity to have a conversation with Josh about temples. I am amazed that I have a son that is maturing to quickly...soon to be a young man.

Girls Night Out....with Sarah

Sarah and I went to a community production of "Beauty and the Beast" on Friday night. It was so fun to be together and such a delight to see her so taken with the music, costumes and the acting. Two girls from our ward were in it: Cassie played 'Babette' the feather duster and Kelly played 'Belle.' They (and the whole cast) really did a phenomenal job....I was really impressed! Kelly was born to play Belle...she sounded just like Belle (and didn't miss a note either!). When the cast was singing a particularly long note, Sarah commented, "They can hold their breath for a long time." She also said, "Their acting is really good!" So fun to hear her observations. After the play, many of the cast members greeted people in the foyer. She was so excited to have her picture taken with Cassie and Kelly. She was taken by the whole thing she asked Cassie to take her on stage and backstage. She loved seeing the set close up and getting a look at all the costumes backstage. What a fun night!

Glory Hallelujah!!!!!!!!

And an Amen, Sista!!!!!! I have finally finished the staircase and I love it! It was every bit as hard as I thought...and then some. Mostly because of all the sanding I did to prep for staining. Even though the finished product took a turn from my original plan, I actually like it better this way. (If I didn't have the metal spindles I really would've wanted the walnut/white combo, but w/ what I have, I think this was the best route) It came out super smooth and even. I wanted it to look like it had always been this way (i.e. the builder did it)...and I think I came pretty close. I finished it up last Friday and spent the weekend cleaning. Holy moly....you wouldn't believe all the over-spray dust. It was everywhere. No joke.

Eventually, (I'm a little burnt out right now) I would like to paint a darker color so there is more of a contrast and pop between the walls and railings (and mantel). I would LOVE suggestions of paint colors from anyone....please! I need it to be pretty neutral since I will most likely have to repaint most of the house (open floor plan + rounded corners= no good starting/stopping points!)

BEFORE ...................&..................AFTER

I've also inlcuded a picture of the mantel. Not loving how it's decorated right now...another day, another time.

Upon returning home this morning...

I found this taped to my computer desk. Love the illustration Sarah included. Hmm...I think it's pretty good evidence that my off-track kids were really "enjoying" each other while I was gone. I asked Sarah why there was a note for Josh left by my computer. She replied, "I didn't mean it. Josh and I had an argue, but we're over it now." Well, I'm glad they worked it out on their own....here's to another two weeks off track!

No sweeter surprise...

than seeing these bloom! Ahhhhhhhhhh....this brings cheer to my soul like nothing else (sorry, sounds corny, but it's true). Hands down, spring is my favorite time of year. Granted it's still only 40 degrees outside, but these flowers mean warmth and beauty is right around the corner. Can't wait to plant my Zinnias, tomatoes, basil, and cilantro (my gardening repertoire is still very limited...maybe I'll broaden it this year). Ohh and flowers in pots for the porch...I can't wait!

Love it, love it, love it.

Did I say I like spring?

WHAT THE???????!!!!!!!!!!!!

Holy cow, I cannot believe we are doing this already. What you may ask? We just attended JR. HIGH registration with Josh. I vividly remember the hallowed halls of KJH like it was yesterday and now it's my child's turn to enter the cruel world we call Jr. High. As much fun as I had in my Jr. High days, I don't think there is a more awkward and insecure time, don't you agree? As we attended the meeting, I couldn't help but feel that I was getting ready to throw my child to the dogs. I know, I know....we all did it and I know he will be fine.

And yes, I was a completely dorky mom snapping a photo in front of the school. Luckily, he doesn't know any better (yet) to be too embarassed to allow me to do such a thing! :)

Fabulous weekend!

What a fantastic weekend in Phoenix! This last weekend we headed south to celebrate the marriage of my brother Ryan to Jodi. The gorgeous spring weather was such a nice break from the cold and snow here. After a looong drive, we arrived Thursday night. We had a great time visiting with my brother Jeff, who rode down with us. Friday, the girls got to shop and eat out...yummy fish tacos and great deals were found! That night we had a rehearsal dinner at "Monti's"...it was great to meet Jodi's family and see so many other family members and friends that we don't see often.
Their sealing took place at noon on Saturday in the Mesa Temple. Just as we were waiting to go into the chapel I ran into Annalisa Semadini!! I haven't seen her since...well, a really, really long time! It was such a sweet surprise to see her and quickly reunite. The ceremony was beautiful...they were both so relaxed and calm. We are just thrilled to have Jodi be a part of our family...she is such a sweet, wonderful person. The weather was just perfect as we waited outside for the bride and groom (about 80 degrees!). After waiting, Ryan finally peeked his head out to let us know she was almost ready. Finally they came through the revolving door and right back in...that is so Ryan. Jodi was glowing and Ryan looked so proud. From her hair to her dress, Jodi looked stunning. Really, I think that is the most beautiful dress I've ever seen. I know my pics don't do it justice. It was originally a strapless dress that had to be built up. It was a soft ivory and with the rhinestones it had such a vintage feel to it. Later that evening we met at Gainey Ranch Country Club for the dinner/reception. It was so beautiful. We had the best time dancing to the fabulous wedding singer (really, he was good!) It was so cute to see Josh dancing with Sarah. Sarah was so excited to meet her "new cousins" (Jodi's nieces). They had so much fun together. I have to give kudos to my kids, they were so well behaved (esp. Jenna who hadn't napped). Needless to say, they were beyond tired at the end of the night and quickly feel asleep.

Sunday we had a brunch at my Aunt Janis' house, went to the Temple's visitor center and had a BBQ with my family at Heidi and Dave's. While at the visitor center, they had the most amazing photography exhibit by a local photographer, Mark Mabry. He creatively photographed recreated scenes from the life of Christ. Just beautiful...I'm so glad we saw it.

Monday morning, we went on the most beautiful hike in Fountain Hills (where Heidi and Dave live). I'll admit that I haven't always been a fan of "desert beauty, " but it really was beautiful. Later in the day, we hit In and Out Burger (mmmm!). The girls went shopping (of course!) and the boys headed to a spring training baseball game (A's vs. Angels). The day ended with the kids going to the movie with G'ma and G'pa and Chad and I went for sushi with Heidi and Heather.

We had so much fun this trip (minus Sarah throwing up all over me on the way home! lol). Heidi and Dave were the perfect host and hostess...thank you so much. We so enjoyed visiting family...especially catching up with aunts, uncles and cousins that we don't see often. We love you all and are so very grateful for the time we had together this weekend.

(this pic is for you Jackie!) >>