Home Of The Almost Sane

Facebook is my friend?

2009-07-13T11:08:00.007-06:00

It should be because it takes all the time away from my blog! I thought I should stop neglecting my darling little blog and update it for once!!!

The first week of July was pretty eventful. Gabe was baptized on the fourth of July (pretty lucky day!) and we had an Edwards Family reunion that week after.

Here is Gabe before his baptism

He got baptized up in Mendon Utah ( near Logan) with his cousin. It was easier to get all the family up there together that way! It was a great day.

Here is a pic of my side of the family. My parents, and my sis and her family too. (We are missing Kelsey because she was practicing for the Stadium of Fire!) I'm not sure if there is a lens wide enough to capture all of Lance's family together.... ;)

After that we spent the day at Lance's brother's house and had a cook-out and fireworks that night. It was a long day but the kids went swimming and caught up with all the cousins. We went to the car show parade in downtown Logan later that evening(see photo above). It stank like cars but the kids enjoyed it......

The next few days were spent catching up with Lance's side of the family. By the time we got to his brother's wedding on Wednesday, I could feel the sickness starting. You know that feeling when your back starts to ache and your skin is sensitive? Yeah, that. Ohhhhhhhh joy.

See this picture? FEVER. ME. Not feeling too well.

By the time we got in the car to make the hour drive back to Kaysville, I was shaking and shivering and miserable! What is with that? Mom's can't be miserable! I have things to do! Food to make! Rooms to clean! Errands to run! A certain Utah Jazz player to follow around a Layton golf course!!!! Jeesh! Needless to say I am still NOT BETTER. I finally got a prescription for a sinus infection (of course!). So I am seeing the light at the end of the tunnel now. Hopefully.........

So here are some comical photos from the wedding where I was really wanting to put on some pj's and go to sleep. But instead, I snapped random pics of my kids to pass the time.

This is Olivia and her little sweet cousin from Texas. FULL of personality, those two.

Gabe was clearly tired of me taking pictures at this point.

Madelyn is always beautiful. Even while re-enacting scenes from Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Savannah and her favorite cousin. Partners in crime.

Couldn't resist posting this one. I felt the way she looks in this pic. I know, Olivia, I know.

A little more sane than usual

2009-05-14T10:46:00.006-06:00

That's right. A post about groceries. You may have seen them on other people's blogs. And now you're seeing it on mine.

After going to a coupon class a month and a half ago, I've been storing up coupons and have finally gotten around to putting the system to work for me!!!! I purchased 6 boxes of cereal, 2 boxes of toaster strudel and a gallon of milk for $10.36(at Albertson's). That's right folks! I saved over $23.00.

That's cheaper than Wal-Mart could ever be.

It's just the beginning (so I hear) of the savings when you use this method.
I will never shop the same way again!
Who's with me?!

Oquirrh Mountain Charter School

2009-04-28T14:35:00.004-06:00

There have been a few people asking about the new charter school that is opening up here in the Fall.

So I decided to post the link about it for those who are interested! My kids are enrolled there for this Fall. All but Madelyn, she's too old! I am really excited about it!

http://www.oquirrhmountain.org/

If the link isn't working, just copy and paste...hope that will do!

Vocabulary, Schmocabulary......

2009-04-02T10:56:00.002-06:00

Everyday when the kids get home from school, I check their backpacks to see for homework assignments, and any graded papers. I pulled this one out of Gabe's backup a couple days ago.

So....... yeah. Good thing we can't have any more kids, huh?

Friday Night Lights?

2009-03-21T16:11:00.004-06:00

Ok, maybe not lights... but STARS.

I knew that Twilight was being released on Friday at midnight. I knew that I wasn't going to go at midnight and get it, when I wasn't going to stay up and watch it that late anyways. I knew I was just going to go to Target on Saturday morning and buy it and have a lovely day watching it for the 7th time. Nice weekend plans.

That got thrown OUT THE WINDOW when I discovered that a cast member from the movie was coming to SLC for the release. "WHAAAAATTT? Okay, what am I going to wear? Who is going to be? Could ROB be coming to our cute little Utah? Why isn't Kara picking up her phone I need to TELL HER?" Those types of things were going through my mind.

After much web surfing and detective work, we found out that this mysterious cast member would be going to the Walmart (can you say white trash?) in Riverton. Plans were made.

Madelyn, Kara and I arrived around 8pm and got in line. The line would take you to get your DVD and the actor would sign it. Employees had little contests throughout the line. One was a screaming contest. Which I WON. Yes, I am thirtysomething. But evidently I can scream with the best of them. Then I had to answer a trivia question about the books to win. BRING IT WALMART BOY. Of course I got it right. I won a charm bracelet and gave it to Madelyn. Mom of the Year. I know. Here a some pics of us waiting....

Finally, about 10:30 ish...... our actor arrives. Robert? Is that you? No. Honestly I didn't think it would be him, but a girl can hope! But it was my FAVORITE girl from the movie.... VICTORIA!!!

The actress Rachelle LeFevre.

It's nice to have your handy professional photographer friend with you.... ;) Your pics are soooo much better than mine, Kara!

Prettier in person! And completely normal and nice. Here's Madelyn behind her...almost our turn!

It was all fast, but she was gracious and sweet.

Here is the autograph!!!

SO much fun last night!!! Got home at 1:30am. Slept until 8:40am. Watched the DVD at 9:45 am. Yep, that's how I roll.

Young Women

2009-03-07T15:11:00.005-07:00

(Can you find me? I am the INSANELY TALL one in the back. Freak.)

Let me start by saying that this group of fine ladies above has morphed over the last two and a half years. Some of the girls grew up into women and left us, while some grew from little girls into fine young ladies and joined us! And, a little tender to my heart, some leadership has changed as well. Changes happen all the time, we always adjust and the love we have for each other never changes!

This picture was taken at New Beginnings last month. It's the time where we talk to the girls about their goals and hopes for the year. It was such a great night. Our YW President, Kara Elmore (who, by the way, is LEAVING US- you poo-head) gave a beautiful message to the girls. And we had the girls involved so much! From leading the music ( MADELYN!), pianist, talks etc,. they pulled together nicely.

And I can't post about YW and NOT talk about the CHEER. Yes, when the leaders got on stage and cheered our Mutual theme to the teenagers. All of them.Yeah. But we totally got them back and made them do cheers too. Sweet justice, folks. So here are some pictures of the groups and their loveliness!

Okay, so this group is Madelyn, Ally, Amanda and Autumn...

Matt looks great in this one.
But it also has Danielle, Dusty and Lauren!

Rachel and McKenna....

AHHHHHHH! The beloved Wednesday night mutual.... always fun to escape with those gals!

And this next photo is a poll of sorts... should I make my hair this color? Darker?... redder? Help! My appointment is March 19th. And I am not not coloring it. TOOOOOO many grays.....
.

Lights! Camera!!!

2009-02-23T11:36:00.009-07:00

Let me start by saying that I usually am completely BORED by the Oscars. YAWN! They always chose to nominate wack-a-doo movies that hardly anyone has seen, just to make an artistic statement of some sort. But I knew I would be watching last night. I had read that there would be a TWILIGHT presence at the show this year and I said "Set the Tivo and call the girls!"

So, that's what I did.

Lance went with the other husbands down to our neighbor's house, while his wife and all my girls (it's a grand total of 3 dear friends, 5 including Madelyn and myself) came here. So, we were free to giggle and act like idiots. Well, some of us did anyways, and for different reasons....

Lilian brought M&M cookies and I made a chocolate cake. Kara was supposed to bring chocolate bars but something happened and they never made it. hmm.... And Allison doesn't eat junk anymore. She claims it's the reason she's crabby all the time. I say it's the reason she looks so fabulous!

Hugh Jackman started out the event with a hilarious musical number that had Lilian all flustered. ( Me too, okay? ) Well, here, if you don't believe me...

...and who wouldn't be? He's freakin' Wolverine!

But, by far the house got pretty dang loud when a certain pale, messy haired Brit walked on stage. ( breathe!) Allison got busy taking snapshots as we turned out all the lights and rewound the Tivo to watch it over a few times. This is what she captured:

Please note that some of us (Kara) look giddier than others.... and the remote is in my lap hahaha! Need to be ready!

I mean seriously, people......

Okay, enough of that. Need to concentrate.....

The best part of the night was just hanging with the best ladies EVER!!! And my sweet daughters of course! We passed the camera around and I have dozens of odd pictures that I did not take. Various ear lobes, noses and foreheads. Lovely! I won't post those, Ali and Kara. But I will post these, because they make me happy. Hope they make you happy too.

Please, don't ask about the one below.

Can't wait 'till next year!

Recitals and Updates

2009-01-31T13:07:00.002-07:00

I am such a SLACKER!!! But oh well, I will start fresh and talk about the cute recitals of my two youngest girls. Lulu had a Ballet/Jazz recital....which is HILARIOUS to behold. 4 year olds on stage.... dancing to 'Bop to the Top'. Priceless! This was the Winter recital (obviously) and they will have their fancy costumes for the recital in June.

And Savannah had her tumbling exhibition. She's pretty darn good. I could never, EVER, hope to do a cartwheel in my entire life. Not as a child, certainly not now! But there she goes, whippin' 'em out like nothing! I was trying to upload the video of her performance, but it was taking FOR-freaking-EVER!!!!! So, I apologize. Hopefully this post can sustain us all for a few days.?

Merry Christmas!!!!

2008-12-17T15:22:00.001-07:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Where have I been

2008-12-13T12:26:00.004-07:00

I am sorry. I have been so negligent of my blog lately! The world of Facebook/ Holiday-ness has taken over. But I vow to keep up with things from now on. So I will let you know what you missed! Olivia's Fourth Birthday at Chuck -e- Cheese, Thanksgiving (which was wonderful and glorious!)

and Twilight in the Theatre's a few or more times....

This was my friend Kara and I going for the millioneth time.... YAY!!!

So, that's what's been happening in my life this past month!

JAZZ GAME

2008-11-18T09:21:00.008-07:00

Lance and I received free tickets from his boss to the Jazz game last night. We usually get them a couple times a year but these were great tickets! And seeing Korver up close made me a wee bit giddy.....

Sorry for the nose shot up above.
We sat directly behind the opposing team, Phoenix Suns, and heard all their comments, plans and complaints( cuz we kicked their tails!) Shaq fell down......

Kyle!

And again....

Warming up after halftime

It was a lot of fun. We haven't had too much fun lately, Lance and I, so we really deserved a night out by ourselves. hee hee hee

Maximus?

2008-11-12T09:55:00.003-07:00

Second day in Rome we went to the Colosseum and the Roman Forum! Way cool.

Besides telling us great facts about how and why the Colosseum was used, we got an account of how the movie 'Gladiator' did NOT depict the way it really was. Shocking, I know. And the letters S.P.Q.R. are everywhere!!!! On the sidewalks, street signs, buildings. It basically stands for, the Senate and People of Rome.

Inside the colosseum

Next we went to the Roman Forum. It was the center of all Political goings-on during the time. Not a lot left of it. I have a secret wish to be transported back into that time and observe how it all worked.

This is an old temple built for an emperor and his queen.

Lance and I walking around the Forum.

ROMA!

2008-11-11T15:19:00.011-07:00

Sunlight inside St. Paul's Basilica

I don't even know where to begin. We visited so many places, The Colloseum, Vatican City, Sistine Chapel, The Pantheon, Circus Maximus, Roman Forum! I haven't even posted about Halloween yet! I will start with some photos from St. Paul's Basilica.

It was Sunday, November 9th during Mass. I had a very strong feeling of the Spirit there. Mass was being conducted, but they allow tourists in to most sections. You can hear the organ playing, and the choir of priests singing. It was beautiful. But it was what happened to me while we were standing there that will be with forever.

A testimony that I belong to the true church, and that the man standing next to me (Lance), looking like a typical tourist, actually holds the keys to the priesthood, overwhelmed me. Of course, I already knew the church was true, but we need to always be worthy and willing to build upon our testimonies, especially now. Needless to say, I had to put my sunglasses back on inside the Basilica because of my tears.

Mosaic on the outside entrance

Look at those gorgeous marble columns

St. Paul's sarcophagus is said to be here

Lance and I at the St. Regis Grand Hotel Farewell dinner

Sisters....Sisters....

2008-10-13T09:20:00.008-06:00

There were never such devoted sisters.... okay, that's from White Christmas in case you didn't know. I am a HUGE fan of that holiday classic. But I'm rambling. This post is about my one and only (favorite! But still the only sibling, really) sibling on the planet...my SIS! We don't LOOK anything alike, (I know, bless her heart) but we talk the same and have the same mannerisms so that's as good as it gets.

And I KNOW she appreciates the photo of her mouth full o' food from California Pizza Kitchen!
"YA mon". Jamaican Jerk!

She and her hubby came down a couple weekends ago and took us out to dinner and, as always, we have tons o' fun. Her 3 kids stay home with my crew and they all love each other to death, so it works out. We always have fun eating, playing scattergories, eating, getting ill, and making new memories. Not to mention discussing the good ole days of our childhood. (Thanks Mom and Dad!)

Please note the Diet soda addiction runs rampant here, too.....

This is Lance and I that night, having some fun with my sis and her man. We don't have that many pics of us lately, so here ya go!
Yay for family and to making new memories over UEA! Idaho... here we come!
(We'll probably have a toast to that with some Diet Pepsi....)

Did you know this?

2008-10-10T10:03:00.003-06:00

I have been tagged! Thank you, Jessica! As you may know, I don't usually do these, but this one was short and quick so I decided to take it on!!!

10 years ago I was:
1. Living in an apartment.
2. Totally into ER.
3. The mother of a 3 1/2 yr old.
4. Taking fertility drugs.
5. Much too skinny.

5 things on today’s to do list:
1. Wash the bedding!
2. Take Savannah to tumbling class.
3. Clean
4. Watch the new Twilight trailer a zillion more times!
5. Promise myself NOT to watch any news about the election or the economy!

5 snacks I enjoy:
1. Chips and Salsa
2. Snickers bar
3. Chocolate Chip cookies
4. Salt and Vinegar Chips
5. Cheese

5 things I would do if I were a millionaire:
1. Take all of my family and friends on a vacation around the world.
2. Teeth bleached, maybe new teeth all together!
3. Start a business
4. Hire someone to clean my bathrooms!!
5. Go to Disneyland!

5 places I have lived:
1. Spotsylvania, Virginia
2. Victor, Montana
3. Catamarca, Argentina
4. Fredericksburg, Virginia
5. Rexburg, Idaho

5 jobs I have had:
1. Bookeeper
2. Secretary of Housing Dept. Ricks College
3. Retail
4. Substitute teacher
5. Domestic Engineer

Ah....Edward we've missed you

2008-10-09T08:54:00.002-06:00

At 9 pm tonight...the new trailer!!! Hey, I gotta find something to take my mind off the economy!

TWO WORDS

2008-09-29T12:34:00.003-06:00

BOO-YAHHHHH!!!!

Skins beat the cowboys(YUCK!)!!!! Skins beat the cowboys!!!!
This is a rivalry that has been in my blood since birth. I have always loved my team in bad times or in good, and now...they beat the nasty cowboys on their own turf!!! WOOO-HOOOO!!

All together now..."Hail to the Redskins!!! Hail victory......."

Sick of it yet?

2008-09-22T13:28:00.009-06:00

I know I have posted a bazillion times about our trip, but I thought you might want to hear this story!!

At Goofy's Kitchen dinner, a bunch of characters come around to your table and sign autographs, take photos, etc. We had our fair share of creatures....Goofy, Pluto, Minnie Mouse, Alice, Chip and Dale, Brer Fox ....

Savannah eyed Fairy Godmother in another section of the restaurant. We were close to leaving, and there was no way she was going to get to us in time. And, if you don't know Savannah, then let me tell you that you would have thought we had just sentenced her to death. She was devastated. Bawling. So as we passed the front desk to leave, the amazing 'cast members/employees' noticed her puffy, red face and whispered to me to stay put for a second.

And just like that....

Bibbidee-bobbidee-boo.

"Were you crying for me, my dear?"

If you look close, you can see how Savvy is instantly content. That is one of my favorite pictures from the whole trip. Fairy Godmother stayed and talked with her for a while and Savannah had her life complete.

Lance and I have discussed what the pull is while you're there at Disneyland. What is it that makes you so happy? The escape from reality? What makes you so willing to throw your money around? The ever present soundtrack? I suppose it's different for everyone, but I think it has something to do with 'when your heart is in your dreams...no request is too extreme...' They believe it there, those wonderful Disney folks.

Those Childhood Moments

2008-09-20T13:00:00.002-06:00

Surf City, U.S.A.
Huntington Beach, California

What on Earth is going on????!!!!

2008-09-18T21:41:00.003-06:00

You can't see it clearly, but that is Madelyn out there in the lovely waters of Newport Beach, California!!! Can you guess what it is she is doing? Surfing, searching for clams? Leave your best guess in the comments!

Also, this same wonderful daughter of mine can be seen here. MUCH better photos I think!!!

Yay for Vacations!!!!

2008-09-16T08:55:00.008-06:00

Just a few more photos of our awesome trip!!!!!!

I love me some Dumbo!!!

Can't get enough of Jedi Gabriel.

Please excuse the risque princess. It is just her culture to dress this way. (?) Too bad Lance was on the Indiana Jones ride with the older kids and missed Jasmine....shoot.

Savannah got called on stage during this show!!!

This was us on Tom Sawyer's island, wondering where the _____ Jack Sparrow is, and wishing these lame ole pirates would just stop singing.

Lance and Gabe (front row) and Madelyn and Savannah (second row) on California Screamin! Definitley one of the best rides.

Sea World post tomorrow!!!!!

When you wish upon a starrrrr......

2008-09-15T09:02:00.009-06:00

Are you singing the tune in your head yet? If not, then.... get to it!! This post is bound to force some much needed happiness upon you! Brought to you by the "Happiest Place on Earth!"

We had the best week ever last week as we spent our time (and most of our money) in California! This is a huge deal for us, since we haven't been on a real family vacation for 8 years. EIGHT. So we went all out and had a blast! 3 days park hopping at Disney, one day at Sea World, and a beach day...ahhhhhh. we splurged for a Goofy's kitchen dinner at Disneyland Hotel Monday night, and met just about every character....

Please note that in most pictures, Lulu is in princess attire...

Gabe got to live his dream ( okay...maybe it's my dream too... maybe) and was trained to be a Jedi and got to fight Lord Vader himself. Savannah was selected as well, but for Gabe it was just a bigger deal. This short video clip explains the coolness....

We didn't meet a Disney Princess until late in our second day... and then we came upon... Cinderella. Please note the utter joy on Lulu's face.

And please note that all of our kids (3 year old included) LOVED the Tower of Terror and rode it 3 times.

Lance and I thoroughly enjoyed Pirates of the Caribbean (HELLO Jack Sparrow!!!), Madelyn loved everything so much, she couldn't choose a favorite. California Screamin' was Gabe's fav ride and Savannah loved Space mountain. As for Lu? She will tell you that her favorite was the "one where you go up and down, up and down." Yep, Tower or Terror..that's my girl. I'll post more adventures of our past week in the next few days!!! Lots of laundry to do!!!!

Now hear this!

2008-09-03T11:39:00.008-06:00

I have been in dire need of a hair trim.

Bangs especially.

I need color, too.

But I have been nervous because my regular gal quit her styling job recently! The HORROR!! So, I found a new stylist just last week!! Yay!! I didn't do color, just bangs and such, but I feel so much better. It's nothing new, so no one get excited. But I feel good, and the price was FABU!!!!

A BIG thank you to the newest Salon in the Kaysville area!!!! KE Salon!!! Here is the link... she's pretty busy but a BLAST to talk to!!!!

**KE Salon**

And so it begins....

2008-09-01T14:08:00.008-06:00

Tonight is the beginning of the official 'Fall' feeling for me? Why, you ask? Because one of my shows is starting....duh! After a summer of The Office reruns and enough Olympic coverage to make me a bona-fide judge, tonight...after we put the kiddies to sleep and slap on the TiVo, we get to start the 4th season of.....

Yay! I don't know why I love my 'shows'. I feel like an old lady. But when you have bedtimes and early mornings, the best way to escape with a date night is to watch some good T.V! (Chips and salsa, anyone?) And....only a few more weeks until the rest of my guilty pleasures return to primetime.

Could you please at least LOOK like you're happy?

2008-08-29T10:00:00.004-06:00

This is my attempt at a photo shoot with my kids. I have many photographer friends, and I concede to their skills. This is not my calling/talent in life, and actually, I'm okay with it! But, my kids are dang cute, and they (begrudgingly) posed for me!

What to do...what to do...

2008-08-27T18:03:00.007-06:00

JUMP FOR JOY!?!

Yes, that was the scene on Monday, when my pals and I walked out of the school without our children. With only one at home, it's almost like I don't have any at all. The house stays REALLY clean and it's pretty darn quiet. But Olivia gets bored and tries to escape outside every second of the day, so that keeps me on my toes.(See above picture for visual)

Madelyn is already hard at work in the homework department....
my wonderful 8th grader!

Savannah has never been more excited to start school. She was absolutely thrilled with her 4th grade teacher this year! (Mrs. Herbst)

And my handsome little Gabe is a second grader and has really started to take off in his love for learning. He just started reading Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone and does quite well.

So, it is back to the schedule of routine bedtimes, homework and practices. And as much as I love the leisure time of summer sleeping in, and casual days, I always look forward to back-to-school! Maybe it's because Autumn is my favorite time of year. Or maybe it's because it's clean and quiet. Yeah...it's probably that.

My goodness, Mr. Darcy.....

2008-08-22T22:06:00.005-06:00

I am having a mini-obsession with this character. I probably don't need to elaborate.

And this... well this is for my friend, Hilarie, back East.
(And maybe a little for me?)

Viewer discretion advised!!!

Love, ya Hil!

Ummm..Hello!!!!

2008-08-21T09:25:00.001-06:00

Does anyone actually SEE the countdown over there?---->

It's getting so close!!!!!

Livvy's old flame.....

2008-08-18T12:02:00.005-06:00

It's official. Olivia misses her Hayden. She asks every day if she can go over to his house (which used to be right next door to us, but they moved a week or so ago)and I have to tell her, "Olivia, Hayden doesn't live there anymore, remember?" And then she proceeds to put her face in her hands, and bawls. It is sad.

So, to remember happier times...here is a post dedicated to Lulu's little love!

SLAPFACE

2008-08-16T15:51:00.001-06:00

This made me smile.....

U.S.A.!!!!!

2008-08-11T14:37:00.009-06:00

It's official...I am an Olympic NERD. I would watch the games 24/7 if I could. As it is, my kids are now obsessed and can tell you how to accurately score a beach volleyball game, and what it takes to get a high score in springboard diving. And Gabe now wants to grow up and be Michael Phelps.

Did anyone see the Mens Team swim relay last night? The French team was talking some SERIOUS SMACK about us beforehand, saying that they would "SMASH" our team. Well, guess what...?

Yeah...we won.

And it was by 8/10ths of a second. But still, WE GOT GOLD! As a wise man once said, "If you ain't first, you're last!" In your FACE le francais! Lance was screaming so loudly he woke up the kiddies. Yep...we're havin' some fun at our house for a couple weeks.

Savannah's 9th Birthday

2008-08-09T10:55:00.007-06:00

8-8-08

Well, my little preemsters is 9 years old! I look back to when she was born( all 3 pounds of her)and it seems like another lifetime ago. You wouldn't know by looking at her that she had such a rough start in life!

For her birthday, my Mom came down and we went out lunch and bought Savannah 2 hermit crabs. Then, for dinner went to Chuck-A-Rama. Savannah originally wanted to got to Golden Corral(my kids LOVE the buffets) but I put my foot down because it's disgusting. The Bountiful Chuck-A-Rama was much cleaner and it was fun.
We came home and had cake(which my Mom made for her)and opened presents. She got new school gear and some clothes( and don't forget the crabs, Gary and Larry!)

And here's my wonderful Mom, whom Savannah can't get enough of.....

Happy Birthday, Savannah! We love you.

Alright...alright...!

2008-08-07T08:58:00.003-06:00

I've been tagged by my dear friend. I normally don't like to do these. Reading other peoples' tags is fine, I just kind of think I don't even have enough people read my blog to tag anyone else!!!!
So, here goes!!!
4 Places I visit frequently
1. The grocery store
2. Church
3. The laundry room
4. the bathroom
( see? I told you I'm no good at this!)

4 people who call/text/email me regularly
1. Lance
2. My sister
3. My Mom
4. Madelyn

4 favorite foods
1. chips and salsa
2. chicken enchiladas
3. funeral potatoes
4. Jamaican Jerk Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen

4 movies I'd watch over and over
1. Gone with the Wind ("Frankly my dear.....")
2.Phantom of the Opera (Yes, Lilian...Gerard.)
3. Any of The Lord of the Rings( yes, I know)
4. Harry Potter!

4 bands/groups I like to listen to
1. Coldplay
2. One Republic
3. Michael Buble
4. Chicago

4 people I'm tagging...
1. Allison
2.Tammie
3.Tracy
4.Madelyn

Okay! I did it! I fulfilled my duty!!

Fun Friday!!!

2008-08-04T15:46:00.006-06:00

It has been a while since I've posted, but life is crazy sometimes. I volunteered at Barnes and Noble Friday night, for the midnight release of Breaking Dawn. I have become 'Twilight' obsessed since March and was SOOO excited! The perk was, the volunteers didn't need to wait in line to get there books. At 12:01 sharp, we were the first to pay and leave! Check out the line that went ALL the way back to Michael's....

Another fun perk was...hanging with Stephenie Meyer's sister!! She was there and let us take pictures with her and when they closed the store down at 11:15 to start the line outside, we (as volunteers) got to hang out with her in the break room until 12:00. She told us some interesting things about Robert Pattinson's take on Edward.
Here is our photo with her.... by the way she's the Emily that 'Sam's Emily' is named after.

She was a good sport about it all. We are all so crazy and obsessed!
Here is Madelyn in the Bella look-a-like contest. She didn't win, (a little girl did), but it was so fun!

Now, I did finish the book on Saturday, and for those of you who have not yet read it, I will edit my thoughts/opinions. But in short....WHERE THE HECK WAS MY EDWARD????? That's all I will say for now.

Holy History, Batman!

2008-07-26T16:58:00.007-06:00

Well, we've lived here for over four years now, and finally went to the Hill Air Force Museum this week. And, surprisingly enough, it was pretty cool! My kids were especially proud of their great Uncle Harry Culbertson (on my Dad's side), who was a pilot during WW2. He was shot down over Germany piloting his B-24 Liberator. He is buried in Belgium. He was quite young, early twenties I believe. Never married or had children. But a war hero and we are proud of him! Here are a couple of pictures of the huge plane he flew....

And of course, Gabriel NEEDED a picture of himself next to a 'real' STARSCREAM. (from Transformers)......

There were so many cute photos of the kids, but this is one of my faves.....

Please note what she is standing in front of.... a force of destruction equal to herself.... any guesses?

Oh, and why is the title of this post, "Holy History, Batman"? Well, my kids had a little history lesson at the museum and it was a really good day. And Lance and I went to see 'The Dark Knight' later on, and well, it was the BEST movie I've seen in a LOOONG time. Loved it! Just thought I would recommend!

Windows and snaggletooths!

2008-07-21T12:55:00.003-06:00

Don't you just love kids teeth? My kids take FOREVER to lose their teeth, (which works out great for school pictures kindergarten through second), but, when the adult teeth do come in, LOOK OUT! 'Crazy teeth' kid coming through!!

This picture, I love. It's her way of trying to get me to feel pity.

And here's a rare treat... these two together!!! How I love my girls.

New Twilight Trailer!!!

2008-07-18T18:57:00.002-06:00

Oh My gosh... oh my gosh... oh my gosh!!!!

CHUCK!... and bike riding

2008-07-16T13:56:00.004-06:00

Here are the long awaited photos of Chuck the magnificent! He is the only pet in our humble abode (unless you count the fish). This was Gabe's 7th birthday present about a month or so ago. He is quite the character. I know what you're thinking..."He's just a boring turtle!" NO! He is an exciting 'tortoise' who provides loads of fun to our sometimes mundane lives. As you can see in the picture above, he loves to go outside and eat my petunias! Naughty little guy.... But we make sure he doesn't wander too far and we lose him forever (Elmore!).

(And don't worry, everyone's gotten used to washing our hands after playing with our dear reptile.)

Now, onto other important bits of information!!! Gabe can now ride his bike! (meaning, no more training wheels!) His Dad kept reminding him that he could ride his bike when he was 4.( Lance can do all those types of things well.) But Gabe is a really cautious kind of guy and decided that 7 was a good age for him. He spends every spare second out on the street practicing his new skills! Yay for you, bud! Congrats!

And Now.... another 'The Office' moment.....

2008-07-07T14:09:00.003-06:00

This one never fails to make me laugh out loud. I love Jim.

Oh...and...'that's what she said.'

Happy 4th!!!

2008-07-05T11:20:00.009-06:00

STADIUM OF FIRE, 2008

Wow! We have had a crazy couple of days! We started off our celebrations with the annual Kaysville parade. It's always hot but we go anyways to get our years supply of crappy taffy....

It's always fun, though! Then we went home and girded up our loins for the...."STADIUM OF FIRE!!!!" ( you have to say that whilst singing the jingle). Madelyn, Savannah and I were able to go thanks to Lance's boss. We had pretty good seats and the fireworks were fantastic. My camera caught a tiny bit of video of Miley Cyrus during her song..."Good and Broken". We love Miley.

Sorry it's so short !
We sat so close to the fireworks that we got attacked by ashes and debris. But it was definitely a night I hope my girls will always remember. Glenn Beck was the host and he knows how to make you feel all patriotic. We teared up at the flag and soldiers (especially when they skydived into the stadium with the flags attached to them). VERY cool!!!

Proud to be an American!!!

As Time Goes By......

2008-06-22T18:54:00.017-06:00

Look at these two cuties! Can you believe that this was Madelyn and her cousin Kelsey about 12 years ago? Ever since they were born they have always had this special connection. They were born only three days apart, my first baby, and my only sister's first baby.

For a while we lived to far apart to see them often, but now we are close enough to see each other several times a year! Yay!

Aren't they still so cute?! Trying to be serious, but in reality they're a couple of goofballs (just like me!--and my sister...)

It all started in February 1995.....!

And here's a picture of their lovely smiles! It's been a great weekend having them together! Cherry Hill, Ward water party, Tepanyaki.... Fun! Love you two!!

The Twiddlegy Begins.......

2008-06-17T22:40:00.005-06:00

Ok, so I had a revelation tonight, whilst eating dinner with one of my favorite friends. We decided that if my daughter could marry one of her sons, we would be sealed together! And then we could spend Christmases together without any family tension! And then, our other friend(who couldn't be there at our GNO) could have her son marry my youngest daughter, and therefore we would have a TRILOGY. But, you know me, it didn't quite come out of my mouth as 'Trilogy', but more like 'twiddlegy' or 'twilligy'. Anyways.....it is the new WORD OF THE WEEK!!! And, if things work out as planned....it is the word of a lifetime! (No pressure, kids.) And so, without further ado..... here was what the twiddlegy is REALLY all about.......

An eternity of this is what I'm talking about!

Oh my holy cow. What a trio.... This will definitely be on the wedding reception slide show! You've never met a bigger bunch of dorks. But, completely happy dorks, nonetheless. Maybe I should speak for myself.....

Summertime Begins!!

2008-06-16T13:41:00.005-06:00

Finally, it feels like Summer is here! It has warmed up for good, and the Summer festivities have begun. (And the countdown to when school starts again....for me, at least.)
We started off with an end of the year party for my seventh grader and her friends. I think they had fun. They're all pretty dorky at this stage in life, but they're a great group of kids!

And, of course, the annual trip to Hogle Zoo. We normally go during Spring Break, but since there was NO SPRING BREAK this year, we went the week after school. But, no worries, it was just as freezing on June 5th as it would have been in April. We still had a great time!!

And, more recently, we celebrated my sons 7th birthday! He was so excited to be 7. His big gift was A Russian Tortoise we promised him last Fall. He named him 'Chuck'. I will post another entry all about Chuck later. He has many antics and deserves his own entry(with photos, of course!) But, this picture of my soon-to-be 2nd grader just makes me smile. We were at the Mall food court, (yes, I know--FANCY) and he says, "Mom, Take a picture of me like this..." and proceeds to strike a pose. I love it. 7 years old MUST make you cool.

In Financial Trouble?

2008-05-30T12:56:00.002-06:00

If you ever need a break from your normal boringness.... here is a little something to brighten your day! This is most definitely my FAVORITE scene from The Office. (okay, one of them!) I laugh out loud, very hard, whenever I see this one. Here you go.... You're welcome.

Word of the week...

2008-05-22T08:52:00.002-06:00

I was inspired last night to launch a "word of the week" post. We were watching American Idol (yeah David Cook!) at my dear friends house, and some of her sons' teenaged friends were there as well. I just needed to give you an image in your mind before I tell you the word. The guys got to talking about body builders and funny Kevin Killian said, "I think they have something that's the opposite of anorexia...... like BIGOREXIA."

I couldn't contain myself.

So.

There it is...word of the week.

Bigorexia.

Tabernacle Choir!

2008-05-16T16:39:00.009-06:00

Last night our mutual group took a trip to temple Square to watch the Tabernacle Choir rehearse. Sometimes I think people in this part of the world (the bubble that is SLC area) don't fully understand how lucky they are. I would have passed out as a youth to have an experience like this!

It was a beautiful experience. I am so glad I get to go with my daughter on things like this. I love being a Young women leader!

Here is a picture of the youth that went last night. The temple is the background. A lot of people are missing because normally we have mutual on Wednesday's. But we had fun! Plus, our van we rode in stopped for ice cream on the way home, so you can't go wrong! ( Thanks, Helen!)

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

2008-05-11T18:59:00.005-06:00

AHHH..... you know it's a good day when you get to sleep in, and then get a bacon and egg breakfast in bed. That's how I got to start my day! My husband and kids were so wonderful to me this morning. While I was busy relaxing, my hubby took pictures of the cuties on the couch.

And after a leisurely morning, we all got ready for church. My children are so dang cute that I had to take a couple of pictures.. My son, of course, wanted nothing to do with it. I guess he doesn't want evidence of himself dressed in church attire. I'll sneak up on him sooner or later..

I hope all my wonderful friends who are MOMS, had a wonderful day today!!! And i just want to say to my Mother that you are the most wonderful example of how a mom should be! I love you!!

2008-05-05T13:48:00.003-06:00

Twilight

Holy cow of America....... an official trailer!!!
My friend Alan tried to tease me with this, but I beat him to it! Ha!

Lulu's Photo Shoot

2008-05-05T09:28:00.010-06:00

Okay, so I was bored Friday and decided to be a nerd and take some pictures of Lulu. She is such a natural. I'm seriously wondering where I can find an agent for her. This first picture is just a plain ole cute one.

Ok, this second one is when I asked her to say "I love Mommy!!!" while I took the picture, just so I could see her cute little mouth move. Annnnnndddd, that's the look I got......... she looks stressed out by it!

And this third picture is just me trying to be creative with editing... I'm such a novice. Oh well. We had a lot of laughs doing it!(well, mostly me, Lulu just kept posing).

I Love being a mom!!! (Most days....:D)

OUR FIRST POST!

2008-04-29T19:58:00.001-06:00

Hello everyone! I have been inspired to create a blog by a couple of 13 year olds! So, here goes......