I wish I Were...

13 Years

2011-05-27T14:30:00.006-06:00

We spent our 13th Anniversary at Disneyland. It was really really fun!

Lizzy's Baptism

2011-05-27T14:26:00.003-06:00

Lizzy was Baptized this year. She is a great girl and we are so proud of her!

A Royal Wedding

2011-05-27T14:22:00.002-06:00

I love the Royals and I especially love a Royal wedding. We had a grand time and stayed up all night long! It was spectacular! i made scones and clotted cream, served with blackcurrant jam and tea. what an occasion!

The Last Day of School

2011-05-27T14:07:00.004-06:00

Today was the last day of School. We went to the Dance festival and then to La Casita for lunch. It was a grand day. Lizzy did a Chinese Ribbon Dance and Max did a Caribbean "Salsa".

I love this

2011-04-28T14:05:00.001-06:00

Check this out. I really would love one to complete my wedding obsession!

Wax Museum

2011-02-22T14:36:00.002-07:00

The 5th grade at Wasatch had their annual Wax Museum today. Max's hero was George Lucas.

Re-do

2011-02-22T14:28:00.005-07:00

We expanded and here are some pictures of what we have done. More to come as we finish more rooms.

Check out this blog

2010-02-18T12:04:00.002-07:00

Check out this blog. Interesting and sickening all at once. What is wrong with us?

"I swoon in fear"

2009-11-13T12:57:00.005-07:00

Madeline is starring in the play A Midsummer Nights Dream at school. Last night we went and saw her on opening night. It was a really fun production and Mad did an amazing job. I may be biased but I think she stole the show. Lizzy laughed through the whole play and Max melted into a puddle of giggles when Madeline (Hermia) yelled to Lysander as she hung to the tree "I swoon in Fear!" Way to go Madi! I am looking forward to many more performances!

Backstage before the show listening to Miss Mecham

The Star

With the cousins and Max

More cousins

Swooning with fear

The Fam

With Lysander

Star Wars In Concert

2009-10-17T09:14:00.004-06:00

For Maxwell's 10th birthday we surprised him with tickets to Star Wars in Concert. We took him to dinner at the Gateway and gave him the tickets at dinner. We then walked across the street to the energy Solutions Arena. Before the show they had displays set up of props and costumes and story boards from the movies. We looked at all of them and took some pictures, then we made our way to our seats. The concert was great! It was narrated by Anthony Daniels the guy who plays C-3PO in all six movies. The symphony was tremendous. A good time was had by all!

They need your help

2009-09-23T07:10:00.001-06:00

Protect Insurance Companies PSA from Will Ferrell

PSA

2009-09-15T10:30:00.001-06:00

Don't forget to vote!

Look who's getting Big!

2009-09-07T09:11:00.002-06:00

Lizzy lost her first tooth and the tooth fairy visited her!

The First Day(s) of School

2009-08-31T08:50:00.007-06:00

When asked how his forst day of school went Max replied " Let me put it this way... We got to chew gum,.... in class,... on the first day" Lets hope the whole year stays that awesome!

The Best Girls Camp Skit EVER!!!!!

2009-08-09T16:35:00.002-06:00

Here's the thing

2009-07-28T11:18:00.004-06:00

I want to get an i-phone for my birthday. The 3G is 8 gigs and only $99.00. This would be great for me, but as I was looking at it I saw the 3Gs. It is 16 gigs and $199.00 but....it has a digital compass. You can walk and it shows you on a map where you are. And as you move the you move on the map. How cool is that? That is my idea of heaven! Hmmmm what to do?

My Kind of People

2009-07-25T12:43:00.000-06:00

Fine Art

2009-07-18T17:24:00.004-06:00

While at the mall today searching for a birthday gift I ran across a beautiful piece of art. It is copyrighted and so I can not share it on my blog. I can however link to it. Click to see the masterful One Nation Under God. Be sure to scroll over each figure for an explanation. It is the best part!

Do you know this song?

2009-05-18T11:00:00.001-06:00

2 of my faves combined as one!

For Meg... who loves this song

2009-04-01T09:09:00.001-06:00

I love this too...

2009-03-18T13:54:00.000-06:00

Where the Hell is Matt? (2008) from Matthew Harding on Vimeo.

I LOVE this....

2009-02-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

Collage

2009-02-28T09:36:00.003-07:00

London

Disneyland

Jayson found a cool new program. I thought I would share.

Geneology I am doing it...

2009-02-25T14:33:00.006-07:00

St. Dunstan after Wren

One of my favotite places in London is St. Dunstan in the East. It is in the East End and has been there for ever. The original building was destroyed by the Great Fire in London and then the church, like most, was designed and rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren. It was bobmed and destroyed during WWII and was not rebuilt but turned into a lovely garden in the City. It is a lovely garden and one of my highlights to visit.

I am taking a family history class during Sunday School at church and I love it. I have been entering in all the information that I have into PAF and ran into a dead end. I looked on the family search sight and found some relatives that I did not have the information for. My Great-Great Grandfather is Henry Aldous Dixon. He was born in South Africa and I had nevber really known anything about his Father or where he came from. This line was on that I found information on. His Father is John Henry Dixon who was born in West Ham to Thomas Dixon and Sarah Reville. Thomas Was born in Aldgate in London and Sarah was born in St Leonards London. When I saw where they were married I was thrilled! Thomas and Sarah were married February 16, 1779 at St Dunstan in the East, London, England!
No wonder I am so drawn to the place- It is in my blood! We have real Cockney ancestors!

St Dunstan in 2007

25 Things. Meme from FB

2009-02-01T21:48:00.003-07:00

1. I like to be busy and so I keep myself that way.
2. One of my life goals is to run a marathon.
3. I have not run in years so.... #2?
4. I would love to get paid to travel.
5. I want to go everywhere in the world. I am most comfortable in Europe and Asia makes me nervous because...
6. I do not like rice. Something about the texture.
7. I would love to live as an ex-pat in London.
8. I have a great sense of direction. I can go somewhere once and remember my way around the next time I am there. Madeline calls me the walking GPS. I got this from my Dad.
9. I like to study maps, Google Earth, Live Maps etc. and imagine which route I would take if I were there.
10. I love useless trivia.
11. I love to read and usually have 5 or 6 books going at a time.
12. I love 80's music. Erasure and U2 topping the list.13. I also love some of the new stuff that is out now. Coldplay, MIka, Metro Station, Keane, The Killers etc.
14.I love going to concerts and have been to more than I can remember. The highlights being: Depeche Mode, Erasure, U2, Coldplay, Siouxsie and the Banshees, OMD, Mika and more.
15. I love to talk politics. A lot. I find them fascinating.
16. I am always right. :) hehe
17. I am the oldest of 5 kids. I have 3 sisters and 1 brother. I love them all and we are all good friends.
18. I love my church calling. Being the YW president is my favorite calling EVER!
19. I am the only sibling who has taken less then 1 year of classes at BYU. Everyone else is graduated or almost graduated.
20. This bothers me.
21. I would like to get my degree. In what I don't know maybe nursing, maybe teaching I have never been able to decide what to do "when I grow up".
22. I have been married for almost 11 years. He is really funny and has some great one liners that catch you off guard.
23. I have 3 kids. They are really fun and make me happy.
24. I hate the cold. I love summer and heat does not bother me. I live in the wrong place!
25. I love family history. I like knowing where I came from. It gives me a sense of connection that brings me peace. I like to go the cemetery on Memorial Day and tell my family about our ancestors.
26. (yes I am a cheater) I HATE laundry. It is the bane of my life. It is the one thing I would hire someone else to do for me.

Stuff that has been going on

2008-12-18T14:01:00.005-07:00

Max had a Choir Concert

Madi had a Choir Concert too

Madi got a White Elephant Gift

She also turned 13 (yikes)

and last but not least Max got a haircut.

The End

For Katy, Wherever I may find her

2008-12-09T21:59:00.002-07:00

Dear Katy,
You are not alone in your dating issues. Here is a fine example of someone who feels like you do.
Love, Omily

This is SOOO FUNNY!

2008-11-21T08:30:00.001-07:00

Go and Vote!

2008-11-04T06:41:00.000-07:00

Whomever you are voting for be sure to go and vote today!

A Bad Disney Movie

2008-10-07T14:20:00.000-06:00

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

Tina Fey is My Hero

2008-10-05T09:47:00.001-06:00

Welcome Back

2008-09-25T08:40:00.002-06:00

Tonight tonight tonight hot dang it's coming tonight!
Enjoy!

You Decide

2008-09-20T17:08:00.004-06:00

Aren't these a kick in the pants?

On Being a Democrat

2008-09-10T09:01:00.004-06:00

I have been thinking quite a bit lately on politics. I have been watching the election closely and have been cheering and despairing as things go up and down for my chosen candidate. I have also been thinking a lot about WHY I agree so much more with the democratic platform and I think I know why. To me the Democrats seem to jive much better with my belief system.

In church we are taught to care for the poor, look out for our fellow man, take good care of the things we have stewardship over, and we are taught the plan of salvation. In the war in heaven we chose Christ's plan. The plan where we would have agency where we could make our own choices. We fought against Satan and his plan to make everyone do the right thing. So after being taught this all my life the Democrats offer to me a platform that conforms to the way I believe.

A lot of people say that welfare is a bad thing. For me personally, I think it is a good use of my tax money. I find it appalling that in this day and age in a country as rich as ours there are people who are starving. Children who have nothing to eat except for the free school lunch they get once a day. It makes me so sad. I know there are those who say that their parents should pull themselves up by their bootstraps and make their lives better but maybe they can't maybe they are mentally ill or maybe they lack the education because of their upbringing. We are taught not to judge-we should leave that up to God. For me using tax money to help these people feels like the right thing to do. I am not independently wealthy and so by contributing to the economy and the government programs that help the poor I feel I am doing what little I can. I feel the same about health care. Ours is the only country in the world where you have to worry about going bankrupt because a family member gets sick. This is so wrong! I am not necessarily for socialized medicine but there needs to be some sort of health care reform so that people like me do not have to worry about whether or not an illness will bankrupt us. We have a moral duty to "Feed His sheep" I take this to mean both literally and spiritually.

The environment is also a huge issue for me. Global warming is a scary thing and the way we are such a throw away society is having a huge impact on the earth. Even if you do not believe in all the environmental "mumbo jumbo" doesn't it make sense as stewards over the earth that we should take care of it? I mean how hard is it to recycle? But just that small thing makes a huge difference in the landfills. I think as Mormons we would be at the forefront of the green movement but it does not appear to be the case. Sad.

For some reason each time an election rolls around the "morality issues" are thrown as red herrings to cloud the real issues. I mean really abortion is such a non-issue to me. We have had a Republican President with a Republican congress and a conservative Supreme Court for most of the past 8 years. Did anything change in Roe v Wade? No! So why would it change now? I personally am pro life. However does that mean that my religious views should be those of the whole country? Should everyone have to believe in God just because I do? No absolutely not. Didn't people come to this country to avoid religious persecution? Doesn't the constitution guarantee freedom of religion? I think that issues like abortion and gay marriage and other moral issues should not be legislated. Let people live their lives and let God judge them for their choices. You can not force your morals onto other people. They, just like I, fought in heaven for agency and so they should have that here on earth. The right to choose how to live their life. I think there is a saying that my rights end where your nose begins. I think that applies here.

There is an excellent article by Marlin K Jensen that talks about the need for political diversity in the LDS church. Click here to read it.

So after much thought this is why I have decided that I am a Democrat.

Help!

2008-09-09T21:08:00.001-06:00

I Heart Jon Stewart

2008-09-04T10:59:00.003-06:00

Click HERE for the best thing EVER!!!!

Hell Hath Frozen Over

2008-08-30T19:33:00.002-06:00

Yes yes I am posting. I have some random thoughts to share.
First- loved the DNC. Obama was truly inspiring. I am ready for the change that he speaks about. I especially liked when he was talking about the social (non) issues and saying that we can all find common ground. Good for him focusing on things that matter.
Loved this video. Thought it really introduced him well.

Second- I can't stop thinking about the Nielsons. I check obsessively for updates on their condition. The blogging community is a very strong force. It has been put to such good use in this terrible situation.

Third - Summer was great we spent almost everyday by the pool. Max and Madi are becoming expert swimmers. Lizzy will now swim underwater with a life vest. Huge improvement from the beginning of the summer when she would not even leave the steps.

Fourth- All the kids are back in school. Madi has started Jr. High, if that doesn't make you feel old then I do not know what does. Max is in third grade and Lizzy has started kindergarten. She loves it and will ot let me walk her to her classroom because she is big. This also means the Fall Festival is coming up and since I am in charge this year it is a little nerve wracking. So if you are around on September 19 come on over to the school and play with us.

Fifth- Madi's choir will be performing at the Utah State Fair on September 13th at 2:30 PM. The fair might be fun so come and see her sing.

Love and smooches to you all!

Watch This

2008-07-30T09:24:00.000-06:00

A quiet moment

2008-05-17T07:34:00.003-06:00

Well I guess I am still busy.. hehe. It has been a fun couple of weeks. Last Friday Max had a sleepover with 5 of his buddies. They came over and we made homemade pizza, played some Wii, played wall ball, and watched a couple movies (Indiana Jones and Star Wars). I finally got them all to sleep by one and then they were up by 6:30. We made pancakes for breakfast and then sent them all home. We then got out all the bikes and tuned them all up and then we went for a little bike ride. I have decided that this is the year of the bike! I had a lovely Mother's Day. Jayson made breakfast and then Madi and I went to the church to put together all the Mother's day gifts from the ward. The Bishop asked the Young Women to do it and since I am a young woman (wink wink nudge nudge) I helped too. Tuesday was a crazy day. I picked the kids up from school, took the kids to Costco for a quick bite to eat, took Madi to choir at 4:15 left choir at 4:45 to make it to the church for YW by 5:00. Headed up Rock Canyon for a fun Rock climbing activity with the YM/YW. Madi did awesome and loved climbing. On the way up the canyon I ran in to an old neighbor of ours Peter DeSchwieitz with his HUGE son Ben (Allison Werner used to babysit for them a lot) and his cute little girl Ming Lu. She was adopted from China. It was fun to run into them. Max had his annual art show at Wasatch that night so Max, Lizzy Emma Barton (who also had items in the art show) left the canyon early and headed over to Wasatch where we met with Jayson and toured the art show. It was a huge hit and looked great! 3 teachers are retiring from Wasatch this year Mrs. Hannig, Mr. Rencher and Mrs. Chantry so they held a retirement open house that same night for them. It was really fun because Mrs. Nielsen, Mrs. Lee, and Mrs. Busco were all there too. Mrs. Busco sends her love to everyone! On Wednesday Max had scouts- I went through and updated his records and he is almost done earning his Wolf badge! Thursday Madeline's choir were the "opening act" for the state PTA convention at BYU. We had her there buy 7:45 AM where they sang some songs and did a fantastic job! I had a fun PAWS (PTA) picnic and meeting where we got started on planning for next year. I will be doing the Fall Festival and I will be the safety commissioner again. That evening I watched The Office and Lost. Holy Cow!! Any takers on a fun discussion? Yesterday Max and Lizzy had no school and Madi was out at noon and so we went to see Prince Caspian. Oh my heck y'all! See it and see it soon! I really enjoyed it. In the previews they had the Kit Kitteridge movie opening July 2nd so we of course would love to see that with Lucy Jane Hastings! Any way Prince Caspian was great and I would love to see it again. Max went to a sleepover birthday party last night and then this afternoon he has another party to go to this afternoon. I am taking my Mom to get a manicure and pedicure for Mothers's day and we are cleaning the house. So that is the update- maybe things will slow down a bit soon... hehehe ya right!

So Busy!!!

2008-05-05T08:48:00.002-06:00

Hi y'all I am back. I have been super busy and so I have disappeared for a while. I had checkouts that lasted for a full week, then check ins and once those were done I helped with the huge rummage sale that Wasatch/our ward does every year. All of that is now over and so now maybe life will be a bit calmer.
Yesterdy we went to Jayson's sister Laura's house to celebrate 2 birthdays. It was a fun Cinco de Mayo theme and we had delish Mexican food. It was really fun and after dinner a little Rock Band was played.
I am now working on Youth Conference and Girls camp. I can't wait. I think they are going to be really fun. I found some really ugly clothes at the Rummage Sale and so we are well fitted for camp!

Star Spangled

2008-04-19T10:23:00.002-06:00

Madeline's choir sang at the Blaze game last night. They did a fantastic job they even added fireworks at the end of their performance. We stayed for part of the game. It must be a demolition derby crowd or something. :) I snuck my camera in and taped them singing. Not the best quality video but you can still hear them pretty good.

Spring Cleaning or Digging Out

2008-04-17T17:49:00.004-06:00

Having reached critical mass and having no room for anything else, I decided that we would spend spring break cleaning out the house. Madeline asked why we couldn't do something fun and I told her we did that 2 weeks ago. LOL. So yesterday we started with Max's room and spent the whole day going through and getting rid of stuff. Then we organized what he kept. Today was spent in the girls' room trying to make order out of chaos. I am pretty pleased with the results and have filled the Wasatch rummage sale boxes with lots of stuff! Hooray it is not at my house! I still have the rest of the house to do but thought I should share my progress!

Taxes can bite my big toe

2008-04-15T09:03:00.003-06:00

Yes I just finished preparing my taxes. I just think that if I HAVE to pay for the government I should be getting more bang for my lots of bucks. So on this joyous day of taxes I am giving the government the big fat finger!

Happy Birthday Katy!

2008-04-13T07:48:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday Katy! You are so funnt, smart, crazy, funny and beautiful! I am lucky to have you as my sister even if you don't like 80's music! Have the best day ever!!!

Peter Pan

2008-04-10T15:38:00.002-06:00

Madeline was Wendy in her 6th Grade production of Peter Pan. She did a fantastic job and the kids at the school LOVED it!

The Day has Come!!!

2008-04-10T07:47:00.001-06:00

Lets all enjoy it!

Disneyland

2008-04-07T10:21:00.003-06:00

BubbleShare: Share photos - Powered by BubbleShare

We had a FANTASTIC vacation. We spent 2 days in Fresno with Jayson's family which was a lot of fun. The kids played and played and played. They had sleepovers both nights and were in heaven. We went to Ryan's baptism and Jacob's missionary openhouse he leaves Wednesday for the West Indies. Leandra took all the girls to Color Me Mine which was a huge hit. There were several games of capture the flag and kick the can played. Jayson got to go to Yoshino's (his favorite place to eat in Fresno) and it was fun to visit with everyone. On Monday we left and headed down to LA. We stayed at the Castle Inn which was on the divey side but it was OK because all we did was sleep there. We spent 4 days at Disneyland nad saw and did everything. Every show, parade, ride we did it all. On Thursday our friends the Thomases who live in Burbank came down and joined us. Their daughter Mallory is so cute and quickly became Madeline's rollercoaster buddy. Some of our favorites: Madeline: Indiana Jones, Max: Splash Mountain, Lizzy: Teacups, Emily: Indiana and Thunder Mountain, Jayson: Frozen Bananas and Space Mountain. Lizzy rode the Matterhorn 3 times! The crowds were not bad at all and we LOVE the fastpass! We can not wait to go back and do it again!

The Backdorm Boys

2008-03-28T17:52:00.002-06:00

Found on Will's Blog. Looked them up on YouTube! Hysterical!!!

I especially like the roommate in the background playing his video game. Classic.

The Happiest Place on Earth

2008-03-28T17:44:00.002-06:00

We are off to Disneyland for a week. Look for lots of fun pictures to be posted when we return!

Happy Birthday Dad!

2008-03-27T06:52:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday Dad! You are the best! Thanks for being you. Thanks for all the fun memories of growing up. Thanks for taking us to London and Paris when we were little. Thanks for Dickie Days. Really just thanks! Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday Dear Maren!

2008-03-25T06:57:00.002-06:00

I found you a cake with lovely flowers beacause that is what you always have liked! I hope your day is great! I love you and I am glad you are my sister. It is also nice to have royalty in the family. So Happy Birthday to the Princess of the Taylor Tigers!

It Was Easter..

2008-03-24T19:14:00.004-06:00

and we dyed some eggs with the cousins ay Grammy and Pop Pops house.

We woke up to see what the easter Bunny brought.

We went to church in our new Easter finery. (but no bonnets)

We had dinner at our house. Lamb, mint sauce, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, and cake. Then we hunted for some more eggs.

The best part? 60+ degree weather! Oh and getting together with the fam!

FYI

2008-03-17T20:16:00.002-06:00

Jayson has a blog now. You can check it out here. It is also listed in my links under Jayson.

Jayson is getting older

2008-03-16T20:13:00.004-06:00

Yesterday was Jayson's birthday. To celebrate we went to the Village Inn for breakfast. Then we watched some Planet Earth in the afternoon and went to Magelby's for dinner. We got Lenore's Chocolate cake for dessert. It was delicious! It was a very relaxing birthday. Happy Birthday Jayson! You are funny, thoughtful, smart and I love you!

A Change

2008-03-13T17:16:00.004-06:00

What do you think?

Happy Birthday to Will!

2008-03-11T09:39:00.004-06:00

Happy Birthday Will! I found you a "green" cake. Thanks for making me think. Thanks for making me laugh. Thanks for so many fun childhood memories. Thanks for just being you! Happy Birthday I hope it is the greatest!

Lizzy is 5!!!

2008-03-10T08:27:00.010-06:00

Today is Lizzy's 5th birthday. She is getting so big and is really a funny person. She knows what she wants and she likes to be in charge. She is my helper in everything and likes to boss around her older siblings. She has a goofy sense of humor and has the best laugh ever!
We had her party yesterday at my parents house after Sunday dinner. She chose a Tinkerbell party this year. I think it came together very nicely and she had a great time so it was a success.

With her cake

The cake

New Birthday outfit

The party

Blowing out candles

She woke up this morning to a new bike in her room. She is already riding it around and around like a pro! Happy Birthday Lizzybeth! We love you!

Where the Wild Things Went Today

2008-03-07T19:35:00.006-07:00

After school today we went with the Hastings to the zoo. It was a great afternoon. The weather was great and the animals seemed to be quite active, Well not the big cats except the cougar who tried to jump through the fence at a little boy who had lost his hat and was trying to retrieve it. We saw the baby giraffe and baby orangutan. They were very cute. The Ghost of the Bayou was actually moving and out of the water so that was cool to see. My least favorite part was when two kids started chasing the geese towards me and then they took off. But it is OK because I hid behind Anna for protection. The peacock was in full glory. The kids loved it I on the other hand did not. I kept thinking get me OUT OF HERE! Ahh birds... YUCK! After the zoo we met up with Jayson and Rob for dinner. We tried the Cheesecake Factory- we tried to call to see how long the wait was but they can't give that information out over the phone if they did that the terrorists would win. So any way we drove from the zoo to the restaurant and it was a 2 hour wait at least (this was at 5). No thanks with 7 starving children. We drove down the road and had a lovely dinner at Mimi's with no wait. It was a great day and I think the Wild Things may be tuckered out!

The Ghost of the Bayou

I HATE this thing

Rock and Roll!

2008-03-05T08:52:00.004-07:00

Lat night for our Young Women's activity we had a planning night. Those are always boring so wedecided to spice it up a bit by playing Rock Band. The girls were awesome! It was a lot of fun and we are going to have to do it again soon!

oh ***P

2008-03-04T23:10:00.002-07:00

Thanks to Erica's Blog for the picture

I am so disappointed. Clinton won both Texas and Ohio. Shoot. Oh well there are still more delegates to be won. Go Obama!

May 22nd!

2008-03-03T10:45:00.001-07:00

Weekend Review

2008-03-03T09:18:00.002-07:00

This weekend was really fun. On Friday we went up to Salt Lake for lunch. We met up with Jayson and ate at the Nauvoo Cafe. They have delicious sandwiches!

After lunch Jayson went back to work and Max Lizzy and I took TRAX to the Gateway where we caught a fountain show at the Olympic Plaza and then we walked down to the theater where we saw Spiderwick Chronicles. Max really liked it and Lizzy did too.

Saturday was a lazy day. I spent the day doing laundry-my least favorite thing in the world!

Then on Sunday we went up to Taylorsville for Tuckers sixth birthday party. It was a lot of fun and we had a good time watching Tuck open his presents.

Thanks Todd and Court for the photo

It was a lovely weekend and a great kickoff to birthday month!

Well

2008-02-25T12:04:00.003-07:00

I am finally feeling better. What a knock out that was! Just a few odds and ends to catch up.
1. The Office returns on April 10. Oh I can't wait.
2. Soilder Hollow is a way fun place to go tubing. The stake YM/YW went on Friday. They all had a marvelous time. I went but did not tube (did not want to get sick just as I was getting well).
3. I hope that Obama wins Texas and Ohio. Clinton is turning dirty. I think she is scared.
4. I am so glad that Falling Slowly from Once won an Oscar last night. If you have not seen this film I would HIGHLY recommend it. It was shot in 3 weeks for under $100,00.00 and no permits. It is lovely!
5. Jayson and I saw Michael Clayton Saturday evening. I would also recommend this movie. George Clooney and Tilda Swinton were awesome as was Tom Wilkinson.
6. What the heck is going on with Lost? I love this show but I am ready for serious answers!
7. I missed you all!

Sick

2008-02-18T08:44:00.002-07:00

I have been sick since last Wednesday. I have been in bed and have nothing to report. Regular posting will resume once I feel better.

Oh Happy Day

2008-02-12T20:15:00.004-07:00

I am loving the news today. First Barak Obama swept another 3 primaries, and THE WRITERS STRIKE IS OVER!!!!! It is breaking news as of five minutes ago! Hooray what a good news day. Things are looking up!

Week in Review

2008-02-09T14:45:00.000-07:00

This was a pretty good week. I went to the BYU vs, TCU basketball game with the Young Women in my ward. BYU killed and so it was not a very eventful game, but still fun.

Thusrday I went to BYU to aprticipate in a research project called. Deliberative Justice. It was very interesting and I really enjoyed it. Then I came home and watched Lost. Holy cow! What the heck is going on? Any answers? Please leave them in the comments box. Man I enjoy that show!

Then last night was the Coup de Gras. I went to the MIKA concert in SLC. His equipment got stuck in the mountains with all the snow, so he and his band did a stripped down acoustic version of the show. All I have to say is if that is teh bad version of a concert I can't wait to see a good version! It was amazing! That man can sing! It was so fun and so amazing! He said he was worried it was going to be a disaster but it was the most fun he had had at a show. The crowd was LOUD and knew every word to every song. I think he was surprised at the reception he got and he said he is definitely coming back to Utah. I will be there with bells on!

Like this but better!!!

Don't Forget

2008-02-05T07:30:00.000-07:00

GO and vote today!

Superbowl Part-tay

2008-02-04T11:47:00.000-07:00

The food was plentiful. The game was great (yeah Giants). And it was a lot of fun!

I am Excited!

2008-02-04T11:22:00.000-07:00

President Monson

President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

President Eyring

First Counsleor

President Uchtdorf

Second Counselor

I look forward to their leadership. What do you think?

New Glasses

2008-02-01T11:45:00.000-07:00

Our little baby is all grown up!

Is it just me

2008-01-28T12:02:00.000-07:00

or is this the longest winter ever? Sheez it is snowing AGAIN!!!

A Well Deserved Rest

2008-01-28T08:57:00.001-07:00

When I heard that President Hinckley had passed away I had an immediate flash of Sister Hinckley giving him a huge hug and a kiss. I love President Hinckley and will miss his witty remarks and great sense of humor, like when he used his cane to "knight" President Eyring. I am not sad for him though. He is in a great place with those he loves. I will miss him but I know that he is happy and no longer missing his sweet little wife. Thank you President Hinckley for your lifetime of service and your example to me.

Potty Training, Check

2008-01-26T19:05:00.000-07:00

Lizzy is FINALLY done potty training. She has gone almost 1 month accident free (day and night). She earned her kitchen and today we wemt to Toys R Us and picked it up. Is bribery wrong?

Dave Barry is the Bomb

2008-01-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

I was reading some blogs and came across this link and it gave me a great big LOL. Dave Barry has a marvellous sense of humor. My cheeks still hurt from laughing so hard. Enjoy!

Ummmmm

2008-01-24T09:04:00.000-07:00

Well I really have nothing to post about. January is really my least favorite time of year. It is too cold to really do anything fun and it seems like I am just waiting for spring. I can't wait for soccer and Easter and being able to play outside. I am not cut out for cold. Oh well, spring will come and then I will be happy!

A new Car for ME!

2008-01-16T16:24:00.001-07:00

I've done it. I went today and traded in the Passat and am the proud new owner of a CRV. It has better gas milage than the Oddesy and more room than our Pasasat. And the best part-it takes regular not PREMIUM gas!! WAHOO!! I am excited for a change!

Shake Your Groove Thing

2008-01-12T18:13:00.000-07:00

Last night Wasatch had their annual Spirit Week Family Dance. We went in the afternoon and helped decorate and set up then last night we went back and got our groove on. Max had a great time with all his buddies and Madeline reconnected with all her old friends from years gone by. Lizzy even got in on the action and shook her booty with the best of them. They passed out glow sticks, did the electric slide and the hokey pokey. The evening was a resounding success!

Max loves glow sticks!

Lizzy Dancing

Max and Adam putting together handcuffs

Treats: Snow Cones and Popcorn

The 6th Grade Dance Circle

Lizzy and Max watching the dancers on the stage

Madi mid dance move

Feed the World

2008-01-11T11:55:00.000-07:00

I came accross this website in blogosphereing. For each word meaning you get right they will donate 20 grains of rice to a 3rd world country. Help without leaving your desk! Check it out!

She's In!

2008-01-10T19:20:00.001-07:00

Madeline's Audition went really well. The choir director told her she had the biggest range he had heard. Check out the Choir's website here.

Audition

2008-01-09T09:46:00.000-07:00

Madeline has been invited to audition for the Utah Children's Choir. The audition is by invitation only and it is quite an honor to be asked. This is the children's choir that sang with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir for the 2002 Olympics. They go on International tours and it would be an amazing opportunity for her. She got called yesterday and will audition tomorrow. Good Luck Mad!

A Good Chuckle

2008-01-08T17:35:00.000-07:00

This goes with Anna's post from the other day. It made me laugh quite hard!

Mix Master Max

2008-01-07T07:31:00.000-07:00

Max inherited Madeline's old i-Pod after christmas this ear. We were at Target on Saturday and Jayson found a speaker for it. He does not like the idea of Max using headphones. Anyway, we got home and Max wanted to use his new find so he set up a dance party. He used Madi's old disco ball and his new speaker and I-Pod. Lizzy's blanket made a nice dance floor and they were off, dancing the afternoon away!

Me, Politically Speaking

2008-01-04T07:51:00.000-07:00

I just took this quiz and my top 8 out of 13 were Democrats. Am I surprised? Not at all. My top 3 were Clinton, Edwards and Obama. My bottom 2 were Romney and Paul. So Hee Haw from me!

The Holiday Roundup

2008-01-01T09:21:00.001-07:00

We had a lovely Christmas this year. We had all sorts of fun. We started off with a bowling party at BYU on the 22nd. We went with our Padilla cousins and bowled and had lunch from the Cougar Eat. I did pretty well bowling 124 and 103. I beat Jayson the first game, but he rallied and beat me by 10 the second game.

The Cousins

Adam's Fantastic Moves

After bowling we went to my Mom and Dad's where my sister Anna had arranged a "C" party- Cousins, Caroling and Candy bar exchange. It was good fun and the kids loved their candy bars.

Candy Bars!

On the 23rd we went to the Padillas for a Christmas Eve Eve dinner. We had Turkey and Funeral Potatoes and had a great time with them. Max had so much fun that he spent the night. On the 24th Lizzy and I spent the day delivering gifts, cleaning the house and as a special gift to myself I washed and folded all the laundry. That evening we all met at my Mom and Dad's house for a Christmas Eve dinner of Prime Rib, Mashed Potatoes, Brussel Sprouts, Rolls,Stuffing and desert. It was fantastic. My cousins Will and Jamie were in town and so were Maren and Gavin. After dinner we did the Nativity and sang some carols. We all went home after that to get ready for Christmas. Lizzy and Max had a sleepover in Lizzy's room.

Uncle Steve and Dad carving the Roast Beast

Desert Anyone?

Will and Jamie were very happy to be here

The Nativity (Lizzy wanted NOTHING to do with it)

Sleepover!

Christmas morning came and Lizzy was the first awake. Max slept and slept. Lizzy asked if she could wake him up. After he was awake everyone opened their presents and had a great time doing that. We had breakfast here and played all morning long.

I went and picked up Madi at one. We got back and Grammy and Pop Pop and Maren, Gavin, Finn and Harry David Jr.Jr. were here so they watched as we finished opening the presents. We got Rock Band as a family gift and so we had a fun afternoon playing that.

Lizzy was tired of course and fell asleep right in the mix of the loud music playing.!

That evening everyone came back over for some snacks and more visiting. We had my personal favorite Spinach artichoke dip. MMMMMM delish!

The 26th was spent playing with cousins. We had a girls day while my Dad watched my kids. Anna, Katy, Maren Mom and I went out to lunch and then to the movies where we saw Juno. I really enjoyed it. My Dad and Gavin brought the kids up to Salt Lake where they played in the snow for the afternoon. we had Pizza for dinner and then had a slide show. It was a lovely day. The 27th was Madeline's friend Birthday Party. She had 13 friends over where they made homemade pizza and then we went and saw National Treasure 2. Kate hosted the whole party and I just kind of helped. It was a fun party and Mad had a great time. After the party I met up with Mom and Dad Maren, Gavin Finn and Harry David Jr.Jr. at Pizzeria 712 for dinner. While I was waiting for them Steve and Tiffany showed up. Then Kreg Calder (my dad's cousin) and Dorothy and then Anna Rob and the Hastings clan and then Stephen and Ann. We all have such good taste! Friday we had another slide show at my Mom and Dad's . I love a good slide show!

Saturday was Lucy's baptism. We all headed up to the WVC for the great event. It was really nice and Lucy was so happy. Max kept telling me how proud he was of her.

Sunday came and we went to church. The kids got to wear their new christmas outfits to church. I picked them out in England and I think they look smashing!

Monday was New Years Eve. We spent the morning running errands and then in the afternoon we went sledding at Kiwanis with Gavin Finn and Maren and Harry David Jr.Jr. We were having a great time and Lizzy decided she wanted to try a solo run. I started her half way down the hill and was running along side her to make sure she was OK. She started gaining speed and she took off with me chasing her. She got going really fast and BAM crashed into the big Pavilion and hit her eye. I ran to her picked her up and her head was gushing. Madeline came down the hill right after her took one look at the blood and took off running as fast as she could to my parents house to get help. Maren came and picked us up and took us to my house where we met Jayson and we went to the Dr's office. They were really good with her and gave hher chocolates and fairy stickers which made her very happy. After looking at the wound they decided to glue it shut instead of stitches. She came away fine and telling me that her head feels fine it is just warm.

After that whole ordeal Max and Madi had gone to LaCasita with the family and so Jayson, Lizzy and I went to dinner. Then Gavin, Dad and Katy came over for a little New Years get together. Mom was not feeling well and Finn and Harry were asleep. Gavin taught us how to play settlers and then we waited for midnight.

I hope your holidays were wonderful and look forward to a new year!

Madeline is 12!

2007-12-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

Madeline turned 12 on Monday. We had a birthday party for her on Sunday evening. We had a ham dinner with funeral potatoes and salad and rolls and for desert birthday cake and ice cream. She got some lovely gifts and loved them all. She has always been a great gift receiver she oohs and ahhs over everything.

On Monday Kate and I took her out of school and out to lunch at Mimi's Cafe. After lunch we headed to the mall for ear piercing and a makeover at the Clinique counter.
Madeline has been wanting her ears pierced for ten years at least. I told her she had to wait until she was twelve though. Monday was the big day. Kate picked her up from school and on the way to Mimi's Madi had some questions as to the pain involved in the process. She wondered if it hurt worse than child birth and do Kate think that she would have to miss school to recover. We were walking through the mall after lunch and Madeline started to get VERY pale and she was breathing harder and harder the closer we got to Claires. When we got there I thought she was going to burst into tears. We tried to get her to look at the earrings to choose which ones she would like but all she would say was "I just want something simple." We finally got her to choose some earrings (very cute crystal daisies) and she got up in the chair. She was even paler at this point and very close to tears. She asked if the blood would drip on her shirt, we assured her there would be no blood. I asked her if she still wanted to do this and she adamantly said she did. The two girls got ready and she said she needed to hold her Mom's hands. She held both of our hands with VERY sweaty palms. She closed her eyes very tight and squeezed our hands and the 1,2,3 they pierced her ears. As soon as they were done she dropped our hands opened her eyes and said "That was it?". I had a good laugh. The drama runs high with her! We went to Macy's and she had her makeover where she learned how to put on makeup. It was a very successful afternoon and very entertaining too!
So Happy Birthday Frushka! I can't belive you are 12!

Will- This One's for You!

2007-12-18T11:08:00.000-07:00

This just in- Peter Jackson to produce The Hobbit!

And really bad eggs...

2007-12-13T18:10:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching all 3 of The Pirates of the Carribbean movies. Oh how I love them. They are witty and fun and just great. I love all the one liners. Oh man I would like to be a pirate. Well not a real one just a movie one.

Flashback to 1992

2007-12-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

My Dad posted on his blog about a trip they took to Walthamstow yesterday on his blog. It got my mind going. Back in 1992 I was a nanny in Switzerland and I watched a lot of TV. There were 3 English channels, Sky TV, Sky Sports, and MTV. There was a group that was HUGE on MTV called East 17- they were from Walthamstow. I thought the blonde who does a little rap was particularly good looking. So for your viewing pleasure a video from 1992 that reminds me of my nanny days.

Gotta love the early 90's!

Funny

2007-12-07T09:41:00.001-07:00

Saw this one on Dooce. Enjoy.

Max the Cub Scout

2007-12-06T09:05:00.001-07:00

Max earned his Bobcat this month and has started working towards his Wolf. He really likes it and looks forward to Wednesdays when he can go and do cool things with his friends.

Excited to See

2007-12-05T12:40:00.000-07:00

The Trailer for Prince Caspian came out today. It looks really good and I can't wait to see it. Any takers?

May I Recommend

2007-12-04T21:43:00.000-07:00

The Cocoa Latte Machine. This makes hot cocoa easy and fun. I wake up, put in water and mix and voila hot chocolate for all in less than 5 minutes. It makes hot chocolate for breakfast very easy and on a winter morning the kids love it! It has recipes for homemade hot chocolate too. I love it!

Surreal

2007-12-03T20:14:00.000-07:00

I was just browsing all the blogs I check regularly and started thinking how strange it was that we are all adults and have these crazy lives. It sometimes freaks me out that I am an adult, a Mom with 3 kids. Madeline is turning 12 in 2 weeks and I find that very strange. Heck, I remember turning 12 myself. It is fun to read all the blogs of those I grew up with. But do you ever stop and think holy cow we are all adults with kids! It is fun to read about everyones lives but occasionally I think that we are all still to young to be this grown up. So that is my craziness this evening-just thought I'd share.

I Miss You

2007-12-03T12:36:00.000-07:00

Please come home soon.

Haul out the Holly...

2007-12-02T17:48:00.000-07:00

We put up our tree yesterday. We braved the snow and got one at Baum's.

Putting on the lights

Lizzy is a fabulous helper

So are Max and Madi

The finished product

Christmas Lights (Non Griswald Style)

Merry Christmas to all Y'all!!!

SNOW

2007-12-01T15:08:00.001-07:00

We awoke this morning to snow. Lizzy was very excited and got on her snow things right away.

After ballet and the primary activity the kids bundled up and headed out to play. They threw snow, built a mini fort, got wet and freezing so it was a successful day.

They had a good time and are ready to play again soon.

Warning... TMI Ahead

2007-11-29T10:30:00.001-07:00

We are having great success with Lizzy and her potty training. She caught on quick to the peeing but number 2 was a little harder. We resorted to a cold shower if she messed in her undies. She hated that and was soon trying for number 2 as well. It has been 3 days with no accidents and so I feel we are nearing completion. Lizzy is a very funny girl tough she always lets me know what she has done. She will say "Mom I did pssssst" My very favorite is what she says when she needs to or has gone number two. She says " I need to drop a poop." She is very into how things sound I guess.

On the potty

She was sooo proud she insisted I take this photo for the world to see. I know-sick!

The Grand Opening

2007-11-26T18:24:00.000-07:00

My cousin Colton used to be the head chef at Sundance's Tree Room. Earlier this year he decided he would like to own his own place and so he and two of his friends have been working very hard to open their restaurant. Tonight was the night. Pizzeria Seven Twelve is now open! Man oh man is it delicious. We left satisfied and full. Max claims it is the best pizza he has ever had. He said he liked the pizza better than the dessert. For Max that is saying something. Thanks Colton it was WONDERFUL! Good luck to you and Millie on this excellent new adventure. We will be back soon and often.

The Pizzeria Seven Twelve

Midtown Village

320 South State Street #147 Orem

Colton and his fab. oven

The gang getting ready to eat

Jayson and Lizzy

Phillie, Millie, Holden, Jayson, Lizzzy

'Cause it's Thanksgiving.....

2007-11-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely Thanksgiving. Everyone came here for the food and fun. I made a 3-D turkey cake for fun. There was a fantastic game of football where the rules were optional. We had a lovely dinner followed by lovely deserts. Then we played 80's trivial pursuit were Jayson and I were killing until the wimpy siblings decided it was too hard and quit, and then we played Scene it. It was a very satisfying start to High Dickie Days.

Happy Dickie Days!

2007-11-22T08:38:00.000-07:00

Today marks the start of Dickies Days. Wahoo! The turkey is in the oven, the pies are made, the cranberry salad is in the fridge- now all we need is 2:00. We miss those who aren't here but wish them all a very Happy Thanksgiving. May your turkey be moist and your nap be long!