Caddywumpus

Disney Fun

2011-11-05T20:10:00.000-07:00

Okay, Okay, I know I haven't blogged in a year but I needed some where to put our cute Disney pics. This trip was so special to us. We got to have Nana and Papa and our best friend cousins the Steels with us. The kids had such a blast. Every one of them cried the day we got home. I guess we'll have to make it a yearly thing.

Big Kid

2011-03-01T12:07:00.000-08:00

My baby Wade turned 4 yesterday....Holy Moly!!! I can't even believe it. We love this little guy so much. He makes us all laugh like crazy. He had a week full of birthday fun with a trip to Fat Cats (no pictures, boo), a new car, and an exciting dinner at Chuckarama.

My Sugarplum

2010-12-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

It's Nutcracker Week again. Paige loves this so much. She got an extra special little part this year as the tumbling misfit Gingerette. I was so nervous for her but she has done great. She has practiced and worked so hard for these shows and we are so proud of her. Thanks to all of our family and friends who have come to see her and cheer her on.

Another Cabin Trip

2010-12-19T20:37:00.000-08:00

With all of the fantastic snow this year we were able to take an extra early cabin trip. This really is one of my very favorite vacations. I love to ski and it is so fun now that Gabe can keep up. There is no tv and hardly any phone reception up there so we are really removed and it is so relaxing.

I have to explain this last picture. My brother is such a trooper! We all rented skis this time so to prevent us from having to pay for an extra day, he skiied and carried all of the skis down to the lodge and then snowshoed the whole way back up to the cabin. I know I cannot explain how far this hike was but just imagine climbing a really tall mountain in a blizzard in the dark. Supposedly it is something he always wanted to do. I just think he was being nice. It was amazing!

Boo!!

2010-10-31T20:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween from us. I'm so glad it's over! Ha Ha!

Witches Feast

2010-10-18T11:18:00.001-07:00

We took a trip with my mom to Gardner Village for Breakfast with the Witches. They put on such a funny show and the food was delish! The kids had such a fun time.

San Antonio

2010-09-17T14:36:00.000-07:00

We went on a little overnight with Dean to San Antonio to see the Alamo. What a cool city!

Birthday Girl

2010-09-05T15:30:00.000-07:00

Paige turns 7 today. Crazy! I know I say that on all of their birthdays. Here are some things about Paige...

-She is a good friend and always thinks of others.

-She loves everything that's pretty

-She is so easy going. Half of the time I have no idea where she is because she is so content to just play by herself.

-She loves to tumble and is getting really good.

-She loves to be outside climbing trees, riding bikes, and jumping on the tramp.

We love this girl!

Once again the birthdays get bigger and bigger. She got a new bike and a Lainey doll (from her Nana). She loves them both!

Limbo Rock!

2010-08-31T11:59:00.001-07:00

We celebrated Paige's birthday Saturday (a week early) with an exciting LUAU. She invited all of her best little friends to come Hula with her. I seriously lucked out by having an awesome mom who knows awesome people. She had some friends of her come, Sati, Mapu, and Tupu, who recently moved here from Hawaii to make flower clips with the girls and teach them how to dance. It was such a great party. You've never seen so many eyes light up when Mapu and Tupu performed for them. We finished off the party with a yummy lunch, a hula hoop and limbo contest, and sand art. Thanks to everyone who helped out!

School Days

2010-08-25T20:02:00.001-07:00

First day of the first and third grade! They were bouncing off the walls with excitement, I was not. They are growing up way too fast. They looked pretty dang good though!

FORE!!!

2010-08-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

Gabe got be be part of a junior golf association all summer with his good buddy Parker. They golfed once a week for the entire summer, then finished off with a tournament and banquet. They were both intense and wanted to do their very best every week. I have to say this is the first activity that my any of my kids have done that I am so sad to see come to an end.

Cousins Weekend

2010-08-15T21:31:00.001-07:00

Kate and Tate got to come and spend a few days with us while mom and dad took a little trip. We did a ton of fun stuff and they all loved getting to have three sleepovers in a row. We love these kids so much and miss them already!

Walking on the parkway

Painting Swirly Stones

Kate and Paige are the best of friends and are so cute together

Sidewalk chalk paint

I think this was the highlight of the weekend. I'm a little sad the picture didn't turn out so well and I took it before they all got so wet. The firefighters were out practicing their water spraying techniques which they do every once in awhile in the church parking lot. Well, we are special enough to know Uncle Dane the Fireman so he pulled some strings and had them spray the water right on top of our house. Have you ever been sprayed by a fire hose? I would describe it as a monsoon. My house, yard, cars, dog, and children were DRENCHED! It was awesome!

Ice Treasure Hunts. Have you done these? If you want something to take up some time and keep your kids very busy, hide treasures in ice sculptures. They loved it.

Ballerina Girl

2010-08-12T17:28:00.000-07:00

Paige's ballet company took a little break during the summer so she was so excited to start back up again yesterday. She loves her ballet class. She has such a beautiful teacher and all of the girls are so adorable.

Fishy Fishy

2010-08-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

We kind of skipped out on a camping trip this summer, which we usually do at least one, so we decided to take the kids up for one day of fishing at the lake. For some reason there is nothing I love more than being up away from everything where the kids can just explore and play in the dirt. It was a fun day.

Camp and Grandma's House

2010-08-07T13:40:00.001-07:00

Gabe got to go to a BYU sports camp this past week with his friend Nate. He had the time of his life. He loved being coached by all the "real" coaches that he sees on tv and playing in all of the places that the "real" players play. It was such a good experience for him. In the meantime we all got to spend a little much needed time at Grandma's house with the cousins. I am so thankful my kids have so many fun cousins that they can be friends with. We love them all so much!

This is the Indoor Practice Field where they spent a lot of their time. It wasn't there back in my day. It is such a cool building!

Paige loved playing mommy to Olive. She told me that she wishes Olive could be her sister.

These two were pretty much doing something silly the entire time we were there. They are so cute.

This is Hazel. We became good friends. I love her!

It's so much fun when Grandma's house has a park right outside. Wade was in heaven.

SWEET Day

2010-07-15T19:21:00.001-07:00

Today we took the kids for pizza and to tour the Sweets Candy Factory in SLC. It was such a fun day with the cousins. The kids loved seeing how all of the candy was made and the stop at the candy outlet on the way out was definitely the highlight.

These two cuties are really into posing lately. They are such good friends.

Candy definitely makes them smile.

Ty and Kate modeling the lovely "Candy Makers" hats. Yes even the babies with no hair had to put them on. It was pretty funny.

Reunion

2010-07-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

We attented the "L" family reunion this past weekend in New Mexico. Dean's family is so big that we hardly ever all get together. It was so much fun to have all of his 8 other siblings there and most of the cousins. My kids loved getting to know the cousins they never see.

These girls loved each other so much. This was our trip to the sand dunes the first night. The kids had a blast. I have no idea what's in Gabe's teeth. Either sand or nacho cheese doritos. He ate some of both!

The Bar D in Durango

We took tons of family pics at the park which I am still waiting for, but these are just some cute ones of the kids and their cousins.

Let's March

2010-07-06T11:05:00.000-07:00

Paige and Kate got to be little cheeleaders in the SO parade. They walked so fast and so far but they were such little troopers with smiles on their faces the whole way. Their favorite part was definitely when they finally let them up on the float!

Tate, Wade, Gabe, and Aunt Jaime of course love parades and all of the candy involved. I warn you if you have small children you shouldn't sit by us because me and Tate will win!

It's Summer!

2010-06-12T11:21:00.000-07:00

We aren't getting a whole lot of summer where we live so we decided to head to the warmth. We took a trip with my family (minus my brother, boo!) to sunny Las Vegas and St. George. Las Vegas is our very favorite place to vacation, as most of you well know. It was so fun for the kids to be there with their cousins. We swam, got sunburned, swam some more, saw some free shows, played some games, shopped, and then head to St. George. It was free day at Zion and my kids have never been so we decided to try it out. It was such a perfect pretty day to go. One of my children did not enjoy it at all and we had a minor family meltdown, but all in all it was a great trip!

Wade either had his sunglasses or goggles on the entire trip. He thought he was so awesome in the airport because he got to pull a suitcase for the first time. It was pretty funny.

They had so much fun swimming with Nana and Papa. Thanks to them the parents got a little laying out time.

Such cute girls!

Laying on the street watching the Freemont Street Experience. Yes, they are laying right on the street. Pretty gross I know but it was a perfect view. Have you been to this show? Go, if you haven't!

Tate and Wade must have sat here and squirted people for hours.

The Bellagio Gardens. Paige loved these. They were so pretty.

Playing in the river and Weeping Rock at Zion.

Party!!

2010-05-23T18:47:00.000-07:00

I swear I can't believe how fast these birthdays come around. Gabe turned 9 today. We've had an exciting birthday weekend. We started off Friday with a big bash. He planned on doing night games so I had the party really late and of course it poured! I couldn't get any of them to come in so by the end they were soaked. Saturday we went to Lagoon, picked out his shiny new bike and had a special birthday dinner at Kobe steakhouse. Our birthdays get bigger and bigger each year. I'm worried for what the future holds. We can't seem to stop spoiling them. I'm so sad they are all getting so big but I'm so proud of the the person Gabe is growing into. We love him so much and are so glad he is part of our family.

Chicago

2010-04-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

Dean had to work in Chicago this past weekend so we all decided to tag along. None of us have ever been into the city and this was the first time we have been somewhere that we had no tour guide and seriously no idea where we were going. It was pretty funny but I think we did alright. I'm sure we missed quite a bit but we had fun anyways. Very cool city by the way. I would like to go back and explore with just Dean. The picture by the building was my attempt at the Sears Tower. I think we got a little close. I am definitely no photographer.

To The Hunts

2010-04-03T14:04:00.001-07:00

As I've mentioned before this is my very favorite day of the year. Even the snow can't stop us, in fact it makes it that much more fun because besides the normal madness of the hunts, there are children slipping and sliding this way and that. Once again, my well-trained offspring did not disappoint! I barely even had to steal any other kids candy this year. I told my mom that I didn't have to help Wade even once but looking back on the video, maybe I helped just a little. While Gabe was watching he asked me why I kept picking stuff up and putting it in his bag. He said, "Mom, that's CHEATING!" I know how grateful they all are for their excellent egg hunting role model! My mom kindly reminded them all though how this was nothing compared to the egg hunt of '04 when their mother was yelled at over the loud speaker for crossing the line with the other small children, "No Parents Allowed!!" I have just decided that I've got to get an adults only egg hunt going for next year.

Spring Ski

2010-03-28T19:16:00.001-07:00

We just go home from our Spring Ski trip to Alta. This is always one of my favorite vacations and we are seriously spoiled to get to do it, thanks to my fabulous parents and all of their sweet connections! It's so removed and so relaxing. My kids love every minute of it. The weather was fantastic and I've got the sunburn to prove it (nothing like some in the past if any of you remember those!)

Spring Has Sprung

2010-03-24T18:47:00.000-07:00

The blossoms are officially out on our trees so we brought them inside and made an Easter Tree.

Oh Baby

2010-03-24T18:18:00.000-07:00

We had a baby shower for my sister in law this last weekend. This is her first baby boy and all of us are so excited for her. I'm pretty sure that this is the first baby shower I've done. It was fun and turned out cute. I was sad I didn't get a picture of all the gifts. She got such cute things..

The Big 3!

2010-02-28T19:58:00.000-08:00

Wade turned 3 today. It was a fun filled day with cinnamon roll breakfasts, new bikes and toys, birthday cards, grandmas and grandpas, nanas and papas, cousins, lots of redos on candle blowings because other people blew them out, and too many but yummy birthday cakes and treats. I love this kid to pieces (I mean seriously who could not?)

Snow Angels

2009-11-14T18:12:00.000-08:00

It's Official! This day (the first snow day) has been declared my children's very favorite day of the year. It may be even possible that I do not see this much excitement on Christmas Day. I actually think we've had snow before this but we were out of town so it didn't count. You should have heard the shrills when it started falling this morning. You can tell we aren't quite ready by our lack of snow gear but they didn't care. Also, I have a new invention...actually it might not be my invention at all. I'm sure I heard it from someone else, so if it's yours, sorry about that. After our freezing cold day, Hot Chocolate was a must! They all love it, but I seem to have a problem getting the temperature right for Wade. I had the idea today to drop a scoop of Peppermint Ice Cream in it instead of ice and it was an instant hit. Try it....Hot Chocolate + Peppermint Ice Cream = Creamy Deliciousness!

Paige's Turn

2009-10-27T17:45:00.000-07:00

I know all of our pictures seem to be of us in New York, but it seems to be our second home these days. I figured Paige needed a turn. We had such a fun time.

Happy Day

2009-09-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

Today is Paigey's 6th Birthday! I know it's so obvious by some of my posts how much a I love this girl, but I really do. I just can't help myself. Happy Birthday Paige!

Chef Boy r Ronald?

2009-09-05T06:54:00.001-07:00

Today I found out how much my children enjoy my fabulous cooking when I told my little girl that she could choose anything that she wanted for me to "make" her for her birthday breakfast in bed and this is what she chose...A Mcds Breakfast Burrito and a Parfait!

School Days

2009-08-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

This is Paige on her first day of Kindergarten. Hooray! I am so happy for her that she finally gets to go. She looked so cute and was so excited.

Our Summer

2009-08-31T08:49:00.000-07:00

We have had such a fantastic summer. It went way too fast and I am very sad to see it go. I am having a slight panic attack today because I'm sending my second one off to school. I am so not ready to be an empty nester. Here are a few of our favorite summer memories...

So many fun nights with our cousins Katelyn and Tate and lots and lots of Fireworks!

Paige and Kate at the Sadium of Fire...Fantastic!

Paige lost her first tooth and got her ears pierced

Gabe's trips to Yellowstone with Nana and Papa and to New York with his dad. Spoiled, I know!

Our Trip

2009-06-25T08:54:00.000-07:00

We are back from our trip to New York. We had such a great time. We ended up missing the red eye flight so by the time we got there the next day, we really ended up only have one full day to see everything. Have you ever tried showing someone who has never been to NYC the entire city in one day? We literally ran the entire time we were there just to get everything in. I think we did pretty well too. I won't bore you with the details, but some of the important events would include eating at Cafe Lalo (from You've Got Mail), spotting Gilbert Godfrey at Gramaldi's Pizza in Brooklyn (exciting I KNOW), the Met (I didn't think this would be my kind of thing, but I loved it), and me passing out in Tom's room because of the strange lump in my neck (I always have to add some sort of excitement with my weird episodes). It was a great trip and anniversary. Thanks Tom!

9 Years And Counting

2009-06-20T09:24:00.000-07:00

This week Dean and I will be celebrating 9 Years of Wedded Bliss. Crazy! We are attempting an anniversary NYC trip tomorrow night. Now I don't want to jinx anything but it's actually looking like we might make it on so cross you fingers for us. Do you recognize the restaurant in the picture???

Baptism Day

2009-06-10T12:03:00.001-07:00

Gabe's baptism was on Saturday and what a fun day it was. He has really been looking forward to this and loved his big day. He was so excited that his best friend and cousin Abe was able to come down to see him and got to stay for an extra couple of days. Both of Gabe's grandpas took part in the baptism and we were so happy to have them both there. We had a fun family barbeque after. Thank you so much to all of you who took the time to come.

Fishy Fishy

2009-05-24T09:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a day at Lagoon for Gabe's birthday. This is the first year that Wade is old enough to ride some of the rides, so I decided to try him out on a couple. He's never done anything but the train and the merry go round. He wanted to start out with the Little Fishy Ride. This ride may look like the most gentle ride in the park, but actually it's the one to be feared. It's so old that it bumps and jerks the kids around worst that the old white roller coaster. This is Wade at the start of the ride...

But it wasn't long before the terror set in. His face stayed like this the entire time...

And that was the end of the riding adventure. The funny thing is that I have the exact same picture of myself on that very ride. Here are a few more pics from the day...

Another Year Older

2009-05-21T20:32:00.000-07:00

A Very Happy Birthday to my Gabe. He turns the Big 8 on Saturday. I seriously can hardly believe it. The years really do fly by but I do have to say they get funner and funner as the kids get older, so I love watching them grow up. Gabe has been such a joy to our family and I have loved watching him grow into the funny, sensitive, kind-hearted kid that he is. The 8th birthday brings on the baptism which he is also very excited about so you'll be hearing more about that soon. Happy Birthday Gabe!

Get Your Lemonade!

2009-04-21T12:55:00.000-07:00

Finally! Warm enough to sell lemonade! My kids have been waiting along time for this one. This is Paige and her cute friend Katie. There is nothing better than watching two innocent girls sell lemonade. The anticipation in their faces when they see a car coming their way and then the big, "AHHH" when the car drives right on by without stopping. They came in a minute ago asking for candy to sell too in hopes that would drive some business.

A Hunting We Will Go...

2009-04-12T14:56:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time at the hunts yesterday. We hit three of them all together and came out with more candy than at Halloween. This is all due to the fact that I cannot control my competitive instincts and might sometimes "help out" a bit by slighty bumping other kids out of the way or stealing their candy, if necessary. If there was a giant woman out there snatching the candy before your child could get to it, no doubt it was probably me. Just kidding (not really)! This was Wade's first time hunting, and of course he did EXACTLY what his mother told him NOT to do over and over again and that is get distracted by that one all too yummy looking piece of taffy so that you can not focus on the obect of the game. That's okay, he will learn all in good time. Anyways, I hope your Easter was great!

Spring Pictures

2009-04-10T20:12:00.000-07:00

I took the kids in for Easter pics today. This rarely happens for me that we come out with three pretty good pictures, i.e. no goobers on the shoes, no unmatching socks, no eyes closed, no boogers, etc. I was actually really happy with the results. I can finally put a picture of Wade on the wall now. He hasn't quite made his way into the house yet, due to the screaming in the photo studio and the lazy mother. I love how his turned out.

The Village Inn Bathroom Story.

2009-04-10T07:32:00.000-07:00

Here's a special Easter Story for your enjoyment....

It was exactly one year ago from tomorrow. Egg Hunt Saturday to be exact when we were racing around from city to city trying to catch every Egg Hunt possible. Mrs. L is an extreme egg hunter. We decided to stop for a quick bite to eat at Village Inn in order to maintain the energy we needed to win! (Yes, in our house, you WIN at Easter Egg Hunts). We went in and before we sat down, I took Paige into the bathroom. I decided that while she was going I should go too. It was at this point that the story took a turn for the worst. I walked inside the stall, turned around and WHACKED my funny bone on the coat hanger in the stall. For those of you who know me best, know that I am very quick to pass out. I felt it coming on, but thought if I could just hurry and sit down to pee, everything would be alright. It didn't work! The next thing I knew, the room was spinning, I was laying on the floor and I could hear Paige calling my name. "Mommy, Mommy, why are your legs in my bathroom?" I looked up to see my half naked body sprawled out across the two stalls. My head in my own stall and my body in Paige's. (I know, so gross!) I jumped up as fast as I could hoping that nobody saw what just happened. My head was pounding, so I looked in the mirror and there was already a GIANT goose egg forming right in the middle of my forehead. This was seriously all in a matter of 3 minutes. I walked out of the bathroom pale as a ghost with a huge bump sticking out of my head. You can imagine what my family must have thought. Happy Hunting! Beware of Village Inn Bathrooms!

Jelly Bean Cookies

2009-04-07T08:05:00.000-07:00

Here's a fabulous recipe and free printable for all you super domestic ladies out there. How adorable are these Bite Sized Jelly Bean Cookies and the Free Printable Pillow Box from The Decorated Cookie ? Fabulous Easter projet!

Winner Winner!

2009-04-02T21:05:00.001-07:00

Congrats to Heidi who is the winner of the Birthday Banner Giveaway. I'm starting to hate that I can't pick you all. A big thanks for reading and entering!

Happy Birthday Banner Giveaway!

2009-03-30T07:49:00.000-07:00

What?? Another Giveaway! That's right ladies, I know how you love 'em. And who can pass up a good giveaway when the chance comes your way, right? This one's a great one too! Design Stash is giving one of you lucky readers this FABULOUS Happy Birthday Banner. Oh how I wish I would have had this very banner for my daughter's carnival. The banner was created with a "fun polka-dot, balloon, and good-enough-to-eat icing with sprinkles frosting paper." It's tied together with cheery ribbon and an adorable cherry-topped cupcake pops out in the center. It would be the "sweetest" addition to any birthday party. Design Stash sells a number of custom banners for different occasions and if you can't find exactly what you're looking for, they will custom create a banner just for you. All of the banners are a one of a kind design and are reinforced with chipboard to prevent bending or tearing so that they can be treasured for years to come.

* Anyone can enter. To enter this giveaway, just leave a comment below. Gain a second entry for posting about the contest on your blog and then leaving a second comment. This contest will close on Thursday April 2 at 10 PM MST.

5K Fun

2009-03-29T09:00:00.001-07:00

Yesterday Gabe ran in his very first 5K. For those of you who know my Gabe, he is not one for discomfort, if you know what I mean. If he is uncomfortable, the whole world knows it...just like his mama. What a proud mother I was watching him run (and walk) with a big smile on his face for the entire race. Good Job Gabe!

Trip Pictures

2009-03-27T09:09:00.001-07:00

Alright, so I've learned something new. It's really hard to take pictures of yourselves as a couple when all you've been doing for the past nine years is taking pictures of your kids. We ended up with four pictures. One on the beach (as seen below), a blurry one at a lookout point, a funny one of Dean body surfing, and our friend the turtle.

Hawaiian Getaway

2009-03-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

We just returned from our fabulous Hawaiian Getaway. It was such great weather and so much fun to spend the time together. I have never left my children for more than one night without seeing them and I'm not going to say that it was easy for me. I actually had a meltdown two nights ago when it looked as if we may not get on a flight for a couple of days and I thought I was never going to see the kids again! A word of warning...do not put Mrs. L in a high stress situation. Other than that one moment though, the trip was very relaxing and I am so thankful we had the opportunity to go. Thanks to all of you who made it possible.

Hula Pop Winner!

2009-03-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all of the entries for the Hula Pop Necklace. Once again I wish you all could win. Then winner selected is...KARINA!

Hawaiian Giveaway - Hula Pop!

2009-03-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

In celebration of my upcoming vacation I decided to hold a Hawaiian Giveaway. I am absolutely "In Love" with this Hula Pop Necklace from Lychee Kiss and one of you lucky readers will be winning it! This "retro hawaiian inspiration" would be perfectly paired with that new spring dress. Lychee Kiss has a fabulous selection of beautifully inspired pieces that are unlike any I've ever seen. She is an amazing artist so be sure to check out her work!

*To enter this giveaway, just leave a comment below and remember for a second entry you can post about this contest on your own blog and then come back and leave a second comment. That's two entries per person but don't forget to comment twice! Anyone can enter. This giveaway will run until 10 pm MST on March 25. Good Luck!

AG Craziness!

2009-03-19T17:08:00.000-07:00

Meet Mia! As you may have remembered she joined our family at Christmas time this past year. Mia has become just like a fourth child to us and is treated just like a member of the family. She comes everywhere with us, has to be tucked in at night and kissed on the cheek just like the rest of the children, and has to be dressed every morning in her new outfit which I SWEAR takes longer than dressing all three of my other kids together. Paige looks forward to the American Girl magazine that she gets in the mail once a month so that she can pick out and dream about all of the things that she hopes one day she can get for her Mia. A magazine came the other day and Paige asked if she could put a check mark on some of the things that she would like to get. Of course I thought this was a nice idea and it would give her some things to save up for. About an hour and a half later, she came out of her room, proudly finished with her work. "Here, Mom, I'm all done. Now you can see what WE need to buy." I opened up the magazine to find this...

Now look very closely. As you can see almost every item on each of these pages contains a check mark! This is just a very small sampling may I remind you. The entire book is filled with check marks. I would say 95% of the items are checked and that is only because she has the other things. I decided today it would be funny to total up all of the things Paige wants. Keep in mind that this does not include other dolls, it is accessories Only. Our total American Doll purchase will be a whopping...$2,936!

A Fairy Tale Friend

2009-03-16T19:25:00.000-07:00

Once Upon A Time...Mr. L met a fabulous man named Scott. For some odd reason or another, Scott took a liking to Mr. L and they became great pals. In fact, he liked him so much that he decided he enjoyed giving Mr. and Mrs. L presents. Yes, you heard that right, PRESENTS! All kinds of presents. Anything ranging from a pile a gifts under the Christmas tree, birthday extravaganza's for the children, a barbecue grill dropped off as a house warming gift, even a fridge full of milk and cream from the milk truck he drives. Yes, Scott might very well be called the most generous man we have ever met. Well, now he has gone and added another gift to the long list...A week's stay in his timeshare in Kona, Hawaii...Free! How cool is that? They had the condo reserved for themselves but were unable to go, so of course he insisted his favorite friend Mr. L takes the condo. So in this time of busy Hawaiian travel we will be attempting to make it over there on Saturday, all by ourselves for a romantic getaway. Mrs. L really likes Scott! The End

*This photo was taken 11 years ago, the last time I went to Hawaii. Mr. L and I had just started dating. Can you read what it says? Ahhh, young love!

Sunny Weekend

2009-03-13T12:29:00.001-07:00

I hope your weekend sees some sun. I'm hoping to find myself and my honey somewhere like this next week. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. More details to come...

Marriage of Figaro

2009-03-13T09:10:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is our next and final Opera for the season and it is the much anticipated Marriage of Figaro. Mr. L has been waiting for this for a long time. Neither of us have seen it and I guess it's a pretty big deal in the World of Opera. We are taking our friends with us and it will be their first Opera Experience. I'm a little bit nervous for them. Should be Exciting!

Carseat Covers

2009-03-13T08:56:00.000-07:00

My cute niece just started making these adorable Carseat Covers. These would make a great gift for any new mom. You can choose from the styles they have and they also take custom orders. So go and check out Baby Cabana and Cover Up Your Cutie!

Yoga What?

2009-03-11T18:36:00.000-07:00

Last night, I went to my very first ever Yoga Class. After I watched Denise Richards on DWTS amazingly jump in to the splits after "obviously" having no dance experience and then hearing her credit it all to Yoga...I mean hey, who doesn't want to do the splits right! I knew I had to climb on board. Now keep in mind that after this post I will continue to attend Yoga, but these are just a few things I learned for all you beginners...

*It's very important to Get Your Giggles Out before you enter the room. You will SEE lots of funny things and HEAR lots of funny noises.

*Do Not, I mean Do Not Disturb the Yoga-Serious! You can do this by walking in late, falling over on top of them, or even laughing while they are in the "out of reality" zone.

*Wear some pants that can give a little. You wouldn't want your pants to split right when your bum is up in the air (Right Ash!)

Little Angels

2009-03-10T23:35:00.001-07:00

Right now I have a very good friend going through something I cannot imagine having to bear. She found out a few months ago that the little angel baby in her belly has a heart that's not quite right. My friend is so worried but is showing such courage. This baby and her family have both helped me to start noticing the small moments and blessings in my own life. I am beginning to realize lately that I spend way to much time for myself and not enough time for the angels of my own. I am thankful they are mine and for every moment of laughter we share. For a story of courage and to add some encouragement of your own, go and visit Libbi's Blog.

Popped Full O' Luck

2009-03-07T14:45:00.001-08:00

I'm not too into St. Patty's Day, but this Going Green Popcorn will be happening at my house.

Be Happy

2009-03-07T12:18:00.000-08:00

Last night I lay sick in bed, very sick! It was late and my Bugga didn't want to go to sleep so I had him come lay by me. He didn't make a peep. He just layed there and watched me, excited that I was letting him lay in my bed and wondering what was going on. If I looked over at him, he grinned, hoping it was time to play again, but when I rolled back over he realized it was sleeping time, so he layed still again. This is my very favorite age of life. I cannot get enough of a squishy 2 year old!

Photo Here

Happily Ever After

2009-03-05T11:40:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted about this yet because I didn't have pictures so thankfully my sister in law put them up on her blog so I could steal them! Mr. L's Twin got married last week and I picked up the cutest new sister in law. We've waited for a long time for this and it was the sweetest wedding. They looked so great and it was so wonderful to see everybody. The second picture is with my mother in law, sister in laws and nieces. Love you guys!

Perfect Party

2009-03-04T11:38:00.000-08:00

Ooohhh how I love this Birthday In A Box from Polka Dots and Pirates. I will have to say maybe a tad bit pricey, but I also have to add that I swear everytime I take myself to Zurchers for party supplies I end up spending a fortune and it's definitely not this cute.

Found on Mighty Junior

Seedlings

2009-03-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

We have a massive garden at our house which I love. The kids are always very involved with the planting and weeding, but I thought it would be fun to try something new this year. I am going to let them start all of the vegetables indoors, everything but the corn at least. There's just too much of that. We usually start from seed in the ground, but I hear they do better if you start them inside a little early, plus it's a fun project. We always do corn, peas, tomatoes, zucchini, squash, and cucumbers. I will also be attempting pumpkins this time in hopes that we can at least grow a pumpkin per kid. I want some suggestions on some of the things you love to grow and how you enjoy it!

Photos found here.

Shocking!

2009-03-02T21:39:00.001-08:00

Shocking "J"! Truly Shocking!

Pretty Day

2009-03-01T17:46:00.000-08:00

I'm excited tonight for my upcoming week of nothingness. No weddings, no birthdays, no anything. Not that I don't love those things, but still it's nice to have just a regular week of regular things. The snow is almost melted off the grass and I noticed the little tulip buds popping up along my path on the way out the door. I can't wait to bring them inside. One special girl even got to wear her flip flops and springy dress to church today. My favorite time of year. I know we've got a little more winter to come but I will enjoy it for now.

Photo Here

Hair Ties

2009-02-28T00:10:00.000-08:00

Today I crafted up some pretty hair ribbons with an idea I found via Angry Chicken. This is my kind of project. Find some cute coordinating ribbon, double knot it around an elastic and you're done! My daughter is not around to try these on so you'll just have to imagine.

Spring Awakening

2009-02-28T00:01:00.000-08:00

Pretty Spring Things on Etsy!

Garden Gift Tins, Personalized Bird Stationary, Blossom Necklace, Flower Cupcake Toppers, Scroll Invitation, Soap Sticks, Berry Bowl

Party Time

2009-02-27T12:29:00.000-08:00

So Wade is more than "In Love" with his good friend Elmo so I knew this was the only way we could go with his party. There is really no way that an Elmo party can't be a little cheesy, but it still turned out pretty cute. Wade didn't know what to think of the attention and he wanted all of his presents to himself, so he kept yelling at everyone. Many apologies to our guests! The top picture really explains it all. Thank goodness for Elmo's yummy furry red frosting!

You Say It's Your Birthday!

2009-02-27T00:01:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my baby is already 2. He's my last baby so he'll always be my baby of course, even though he's not a baby at all. The big day is actually tomorrow but his party's today so I thought I'd start a little early. Wade is my little Wild Man and he definitely keeps me on my toes. He makes us all laugh every day. He is my loviest child I've had and I love his snuggles. I am so thankful for how healthy he has been. I know how blessed we are to have him and I am thankful that he has been watched over. Here are a few pics of his first 2 year. Happy Birthday Wade!

This looks like it's a few days after his birth. He was so tiny at just 2 lbs. 14 oz.

This is my very favorite picture of him in the hospital. I love his tiny hand.

First Birthday. What a chunk!

Big Boy. Two Years Old!

5 Ways To Know You're Obessed With The Bachelor

2009-02-24T19:16:00.000-08:00

1. After each episode, you google for an hour trying to find any hints as to what happens next.

2. You have to leave Empty Nesters FHE early so that you don't miss the show and when your RS Pres. says, "You watch that? Isn't it just a bunch of people making out?" Your reply is, "Yeah! That's why it's so good!" I won't name any names on this one but you know who you are.

3. You have dreams that you are actually Melissa and Jason loves you! (That one's for you M)

4. You text your friends for the next 6 days after debating over who will leave next.

5. You are a happily married woman with 3 children and you sit and plan out what you will do and wear when you get to be on the show.

*This is just what I hear. I swear it's not me. Ha Ha!

Young Love

2009-02-24T18:59:00.000-08:00

This story was so sweet to me. This little Jayla Cooper is expected to lose her battle to leukemia in the next few weeks at only 9 years old. Her dying wish was to Get Married. The town pulled together and threw her a beautiful wedding where she was married to her best friend that she met in the hospital. She said, "He is very cute and I love him." They vowed to be friends forever. I just love how little girls dream of a fairytale wedding. What a sweetheart.

Dunce?

2009-02-24T08:08:00.001-08:00

It's that time again for Parent Teacher Conferences and I was looking forward to it this time because of something that happened a couple of weeks ago...

If any of you know my Gabe, you know he is anything but a Dunce! He is much more on the lines of biggest Teacher's Pet. He has not had one mishap as of yet in his school career. Well, on a certain day, he came home from school almost beaming. I asked how his day went and he replied with this, "Mom, guess what? I got my name on the board today!" I'm serious when I say, you have never seen a child more proud of himself. I asked him what happened and he said that he was just "Goofing Around" and his teacher got mad. Well, of course I had to laugh a little but I did go on to enforce that the first offense is okay but he's not to do that again. Of course he hasn't gotten in trouble again, but he is still very proud of that moment. Well, I was excited to go visit with his teacher to see what she had to say about it until I got a call from her the other day. She was calling about the reading schedule, but I thought I'd throw in a "How's Gabe Doing?" while I was at it. She went on to say that he's doing great and there's nothing to report, so I proudly reminded her, "Well, he told me about how he got his name on the board a couple of weeks ago." She paused for a minute to think about it and then said this, "Oh, No! His name wasn't on the board for being bad. It was just up there because he was one of the ones who hadn't done his report yet!" Silly Gabe. Here he is thinking he was so cool because he'd been goofing around. I had to laugh. I love that kid. Still Mishap Free And Proud Of It!

Girl Time

2009-02-23T00:10:00.000-08:00

I've just returned from a Fabulous Weekend Getaway with my two favorite girls, my mom and my sister. We spent three days in the beautiful, sunny, oh so sunny St. George touring the ever so fabulous homes in the Parade of Homes. This has become our yearly tradition and I'm already looking forward to next year. I was telling Mr. L last night that because it's so snowy and cold here and so beautiful and sunny there, one of these times I'm going to come home the owner of a new house. I am so thankful for the time spent laughing, gossiping (yes, we gossip), eating junk food, sharing memories and just enjoying the peace and quiet of grown-up time. It also rejuvenated me and made me ready to come home to some serious mommy lovin! And believe me, I got it. Thanks Mom and Ash for making it so great!

*No this is not us swinging up high in our fancy bathing suits. I just saw the picture and had to have it. If I ever get the pictures from my sister I'll put them on.

Woo Woo Winner...

2009-02-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all who participated in the Rose Ring Giveaway and thanks again to Royal Princess for their generous donation. I forgot how much I like doing these giveaways so I will try and do one again very soon. I wish I could have picked you all, but the winner is...
Missy from Simply Red. Yeah!

Spring Fever GIVEAWAY!!

2009-02-17T05:10:00.000-08:00

I've noticed a lot of you out there with a case of Spring Fever, and I'm starting to feel it myself, so I thought what better way to cure the case of the Fever than a GIVEAWAY! Royal Princess is donating this beautiful Pink Rose Ring from their new Spring 2009 Collection for one of you lucky ladies to win. This open bloom Real Rose is mounted on a a white gold plated adjustable ring. It retails at $29.99. Royal Princess has an incredible selection of natural petal jewelery.

**Anyone Can Enter! For a chance to win this pretty ring, all you have to do is leave a comment below. I am also adding a chance to gain a second entry this time. If you post about this contest on your own blog, come back and leave a second comment, you will have DOUBLE the chance to win. This giveaway will run until 12 PM on Sunday, February 22. Good luck to everyone!

A Good Date

2009-02-14T21:42:00.000-08:00

Our Valentines Date turned out so great today. We have been wanting to try something like this for awhile now where we just hop on a plane and go somewhere for the day and come home, and of course it had to be Vegas, because "Why Wouldn't It Be?", and it's always our favorite. It really turned out to be so much fun. I have to give huge props to Mr. L as well for planning this romantic escape all on his own and keeping it a secret! At least until yesterday when I snooped a little. Thanks also to my always amazing Mom and Dad for watching (and playing) with the kids. I love you all!

Love Story

2009-02-13T19:59:00.000-08:00

I hope your day is full of love. I am being whisked away for a romantic lunch at Mon Ami Gabi in Las Vegas. I'm excited to spend a day with the very handsome Mr. L.

Apple Of My Eye

2009-02-11T19:10:00.000-08:00

Twig and Thistle has provided everyone with a free download for this adorable Mini Pie Box for Valentines. I actually think it would be cute all year round. There's also a recipe on there from Epicurious for the tasty little pies.

Gonna Make A Pie

2009-02-10T22:09:00.001-08:00

Desserts must be my thing this week because that's all that's drawing my attention for some reason. What's fun about this yummy Chocolate Mascarpone Cheese Pie is that it uses Philadelphia's new Chocolate Cheesecake Filling which sounds delicious to me.

And speaking of PIE, here's a fun film suggestion for the weekend. Okay so the story line of Waitress is a little questionable, but I still loved it and actually Mr. L kind of liked it too. The reason I loved this movie though is because it contains the sweetest lullabye that the girl sings to her baby. Every time I think of pie, the song pops into my head. Anyways, you have to hear it to love it. The character in the movie bakes pies that are all based off of different circumstances in her life. It's pretty random and funny but trust me it's a good one. I linked the song at the end of the post.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RVZsizvRP4&feature=PlayList&p=6BBE6206BE04FE31&playnext=1&index=34

Cream Puffs

2009-02-09T06:47:00.000-08:00

Here's a little delicacy I found that would be perfect for your sweethearts this week. All you need for these Valentine Raspberry Napoleon's is frozen puffed pastry and instant pudding so they are very simple and so pretty.

Button Button...

2009-02-07T07:50:00.001-08:00

Aren't these candy buttons fantastic? They were featured on Creature Comforts, but it's the Bake It Pretty blog who provides the magic. If you head over there, you can find the recipe and FREE Labels. All you need to buy is the Vintage Button Mold Pan that you can get for just $2.25.

What Is Love

2009-02-06T14:13:00.000-08:00

Love On A Park Bench! Don't you love the last picture?

Heart Box Cake

2009-02-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

This sweet heart gift box holding Bakerella's Red Velvet Cake Balls is actually cake itself and she tells how she made it here. Tricky but Amazing!

Pink & White

2009-02-06T12:38:00.000-08:00

These adorable Party Favors/Valentines are acutally part of the new Pink & White spread by Amy Atlas. Most of her ideas are never to be recreated because she is so amazingly talented, but these simple gift bags are definitely doable and so sweet.

As seen on HWTM

Happy Day

2009-02-05T07:19:00.000-08:00

A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my good friend BECKY and my sister in law DIANA! I hope you both have the most wonderful day. You deserve it!

Photo via Oh Joy!

All Things Pretty

2009-02-04T00:01:00.000-08:00

It's like they always say, "Once you start, you can't stop." And this one appears to be true with my dress buying. I do have quite a few "Dress Up" events coming up, so it is somewhat justifiable, but I promise I will try and gain some control after this. So here is my new dress that I just received in the mail today and I love it! Thanks to my friend A n' D for pointing me in the direction of Shabby Apple. If you've never been there, go there...they've got so many cute finds for both mom and daughter. I had a hard time choosing.

And with my new dress, I just purchased a new ring. I've been wanting one of these giant flower rings for awhile so I decided now was a good time. This is the Cherry Blossom Ring from LuLu Coco Designs.

Letter Holders

2009-02-03T06:29:00.000-08:00

I just found the best site ever. No Fuss Fabulous has a ton of awesome, easy, no sew crafts that even amateurs like me could put together. These Valentines Chair Backers are a copy cat version of the Pottery Barn ones that I've always loved. All that is involved is cutting and gluing. My cute Sister made a version of these a couple of years ago that I just love so I think I'll try my hand at them this year. While you're there, be sure to check out the Chocolate Dipped Krispie Pops. They are not to be missed!

Pucker Up

2009-02-03T00:10:00.000-08:00

Since it's the season of LOVE, I decided to do a post on the KISS! What's funner to talk about during Valentines than kissing right? Do you remember your first kiss? I do, and it's so the worst and most horrible memory of a first kiss ever. It was with some weird French guy in Cancun. Jill and Jenny...do you remember? Needless to say I've had a few better "first kisses" since then, Mr. L being the best and last of course. Anyways, here are some fun facts about the kiss for your enjoyment...

*A total of 34 facial muscles and 112 postural muscles are used during kissing.

*Indian text written in 1500 BC contain the first description of people kissing.

*The Romans started the tradition of kissing after the wedding ceremony. They considered themselves betrothed after kissing passionately in front of a group of people.

*Before the 1400's, kissing under the mistletoe was very serious and meant that the couple was engaged.

So I also thought it would be fun to take a poll. Do you think Kissing is LEARNED or INSTINCTIVE?

*I chose the Titanic picture not only because it's one of our favorites, but if you ask Mr. L about it, his first response is "Now That Was True Love!" Referring to Kate and Leo. So funny.

Sweet Fortune

2009-02-02T00:10:00.000-08:00

I am loving the Felt Fortune Cookies for Valentines. Here is a simple tutorial. This would be an easy one for the class parties. You can also make them with foam and glue dots. I think they'd be perfectly packaged in these Love Takeout Boxes.

Paper Bouquet

2009-02-02T00:01:00.000-08:00

Here's another fun Valentines Bouquet that the kids can easily make. All you need is tissue paper and pipe cleaner. I found the photo here, but you can get the full instructions from Wondertime.

Big Game

2009-01-30T08:47:00.000-08:00

Since all I could possibly care about during the Super Bowl is the food...I hope your FOOD is FABULOUS! Have a Great Weekend!

*Image featured is the Swedish Meatballs from the Food Network's Super Bowl Party Spread.

Pop Pop!

2009-01-30T00:01:00.000-08:00

Do your kids love bubble wrap? Well I know mine do. Just the other day we were somewhere and someone opened up a gift and Paige squealed out in excitement, "I LOVE THAT STUFF!" Referring to the bubble wrap, not the present of course. How awesome are these Bubble Wrap Calendars. You get to POP a bubble a day!

Flip-Dee-Doo

2009-01-29T10:38:00.000-08:00

I try to keep the BLAGGING (Blog+Bragging) to a minimum, so I'm sorry about this one, but I have to put it on and tell you I'm really excited about it. Paige did her backhandspring without a spot for the first time today at tumbling. She's been working on it all week on my bed and she was so excited to show her teacher. This is something I get really into and kind of hope that she does and likes because it's something I did and loved...yes I'll admit it, I'm one of "those" mom's. I try not to show Paige that I'm too excited about it because I want her to only do it if she likes it and she's excited about it, but inside I'm doing a little "Flip-Dee-Doo" myself.

Heart Wreath

2009-01-29T07:52:00.000-08:00

Check out these simple directions for an Easy Heart Wreath. I know I did something just like this back in elementary school with tissue paper. All you need is a foam heart, fabric squares, glue, and a pencil. So cute!

Let's Draw

2009-01-28T19:50:00.000-08:00

Help your child learn to draw faces, animals, cars, etc. with these great step-by-step Drawing Books by Ed Emberley. I saw these on Babyccino and knew they were something my 7 year old would just love. I remember having a book when I was little that taught us how to draw cute faces and I loved that it actually helped us non-artistic people draw something decent. My favorite of these Drawing Books is definitely the Great Thumbprint book. I may do some of those tomorrow without the book.

I Love To See The Temple

2009-01-28T19:49:00.000-08:00

We had the chance today to go down to the open house at the Draper Temple. I was a little reluctant about it, worried about how "reverent" the kids could really be, but they actually loved it and did really good. I was so glad we went. I am just in awe at these magnificent structures. I cannot believe the detail that goes into them. The kids of course loved the giant chandelier and the mirrors in the sealing rooms. I am so happy we all had a chance to go. Thanks to Mindi for sharing your tickets. I also have to mention cute little Jade. I will say that Wade has a new best friend.

Paper Books

2009-01-27T11:54:00.000-08:00

These Paper Photo Books from BHG would make the sweetest and simplest little V-Day Gifts for the Grandparents.

One Fish Two Fish...

2009-01-27T10:04:00.000-08:00

Around my house, the Dr. Seuss Collection is legendary. My kids love both the books and the movies. Gabe picked up One Fish Two Fish, Red Fish Blue Fish when he was just beginning to read and I completely credit that one book to the whole reading thing clicking with him. I saw these fun Dr. Seuss Facts put out by CNN first on Kirtsy. They really are interesting so check them out. For example...Did you know that the book "If I Ran The Zoo" contains the first recored instance of the word "Nerd"? And did you know that Yertle the Turtle actually represents Hitler? See I told you they were good.

This Book Belongs To...

2009-01-26T17:59:00.000-08:00

Right before I finished college and had my son, I already had a very large collection of Children's Books so I decided to purchase a "This Book Belongs To..." Stamp and mark each of the books. It was the sweetest little stamp with a mouse and I bought a new pen to sign my proud family name in each of the books. I have no idea what has happened to the stamp since, but each time I open one of our books, for some reason I cherish the idea that it is personalized just for us and I love that I did that. Everyone should have a personalized book stamp! Here are couple of very cute ones from The Paper Princess.

Write Stuff

2009-01-26T17:40:00.000-08:00

Sorry there is just too much LOVE going around to pass it up. What I love about Valentines purchases is that hearts and love are always in season so really they are good for all year. Something else great about these Love Pencils from The Spoon Sisters is that 10% of the sale will be donated to fight Breast Cancer.

Barbie Love

2009-01-26T06:55:00.001-08:00

I've noticed quite the attack on my good friend Barbie lately in the blogging world so I thought I'd give my shout out to her. Barbie, you were my good friend and I'm sorry they don't like you because you are pretty. What's so bad about being pretty? I never remember feeling like I needed to look like you Barbie. My friends, yes I always tried to look like them, but Barbie, no not you. You were just a toy we all played with and liked to dress up. I will not abandon you Barbie no matter what they all say.

Made With Love

2009-01-26T06:30:00.000-08:00

Lots of LOVEly cooking supplies at Beau Coup.