Saint George State Meet!! 3/28/2009

My sister Lisa, her two kids (Nate and Mitchel) plus Gab's best friend, Tia all made the beautiful trek down to St. George this weekend for Gabee's last meet of this year (toyota jump in the air with a silent scream of joy).... IT WAS BEAUTIFUL!!!! They kids played in the pool for 9 hours straight!! The weekend was incredible. PERFECT. Too bad, so sad we hit a WALL of darkness and storms 60 miles out of st. george heading back to salt lake. I WANT TO GO BACK TO THE SUN!!!!

Anyway, Gabs did great and a fun time was had by all... ENJOY!!

This picture is blurry, but, it is a split leap during Gabee's floor routine. My camara isn't the greatest, plus, you can't use your flash..

What would I do without my sister. We are total opposites yet have a blast together. Lisa, you are truly my best friend... I AM SO HAPPY SHE CAME THIS WEEKEND!!!! It has been a LONG time since my sister and I hung out for a weekend. We laughed so hard and played. Thanks for comin' down Lis. Gabs appreciated it, but, I LOVED it!!! (and I love you!!)

This is Izee singing a song from Seusical The Musical. She has heard the music so much, she knows all the songs. This is her favorite one!! It is called "one feathered tail of Gertrude McFuzz"....

I love this girl!!

JOY SCHOOL ROCKS!!!!

Today we went to the Dinosaur Museum. It was our very first field trip in our JOY SCHOOL. Totally awesome experience, I must say. This is Lydia (Erin is her mommy) and, of course, Izee is on the right... That green stuff in her mouth is her gum..

A couple friends of mine (erin and aimee) have gotten our two year olds together and teach them some learnin' (smile) for one hour per week. It has turned out to be a great experience. Today was "D"... Izee is actually learning a lot!! We teach them colors, shapes, numbers, letters, the days of the week, weather, and much much more... Thanks girls!! Can't wait til "E" on Wednesday!!

Brock on the left, Lydia in the middle and Iz on the right. examining things.

I didn't realize it, but, there is an actual lab with paleontologists working!! it was pretty awesome to see them assembling dinosaur bones in front of us!!

Diva's anyone?

Suited up and playin in the water!

It's always fun, til you roll backwards and hit your head on a dinosaur bone!! (like Izee did)

This is after hitting her head. Much screaming did commence upon the whacking of her noggin!! Poor Izee...

She actually looks like she is working that mouse!!! (yea, I'll let you think that at two, my daughter has mastered the computer... that's right. she is THAT smart!!)

Not really sure why, but, this little girl on the right walked over and shoved Lydia seconds after this pic was taken. No idea why!! what a bully!!

Lydia would not let got of the wall for a while!!! AND I really need to teach Izee NOT to get into Lydia's personal space!!!

Izee explaining how to beat up BOB!!!

Ever heard of RAD KIDS??

Izee and I have been at Legacy Prep for the past three weeks straight, 1 1/2 hours every day, helping out with the RAD KIDS program... Have you heard about it?? It is TOTALLY AWESOME...

Children are taught how to react in stressful, life threatening events... "I" have learned so much, myself!!

The problem is, Izee has been watching 24 children beat the crap out of each other and laughing while doing it. She particularly enjoyed watching the kids beat up BOB, the life sized dummy...

I hope this video doesn't scare any of you away. I know she is the town bully already, but, I am telling you, she really IS a darling little girl!!! REALLY!!!!

Gabs Team Pictures!!

Isn't She BEAUTIFUL!!!

Gabs and Tia. Best Friends. Same Age.. Compete against each other in their age group, yet, remain tight as ever... We love miss T in our house!!

This is "part" of the team. I could only scan a few people... Gabs is third from the LEFT and Tia is fourth from left... Love my gymnasts!!

Gabee and her first level SEVEN meet (that is a big deal!!) St. George 2009. pictures under the videos!! GO BUGS GO!! I'm her biggest fan!!

Gabee's "FIRST" level "7" meet.

What a fabulous trip we had. I was on the tail end of pneumonia and almost didn't go, but, I AM SO HAPPY I DID!!! Gabs did AMAZING!!! She has really turned into a little gymnast in the past year. I couldn't be more proud of her.

This is the beginning of our trip. We drove with Tia and Cyndee.

Gabs and Tia (her best friend. They compete against each other but as still best friends!)

Gabs jumping over the tape

Gabee doing the worm.

Gabs and one of her coaches, Sara.

2nd place on floor 9.05

Had to get another pic of her on the second place podium.

Fun Fiesta is just like Boondocks. I never get Gabs alone anymore, so, Cyndee and I took the girls away from the team party and played at this place. It was a blast!

Tia and Gabs

Hole in one!! Gabs is kissing the ground!! (she is so weird)

Again in the cars. They really are so fun!

A little air hockey

Gabs upside down in the toddler area. She decided to throw a backflip...

coming home

VERY bored on the way home (nearing Murray by this point, so, they were both really tired of being in the car!!)

Izee's SECOND day at gym!

As you all remember, Izee's first day at gym was a TOTAL DISASTER!! She bawled the whole time, ran around and tried to do whatever "she" wanted... I vowed I would not take her back until she was ready!! Guess what??!! SHE IS READY!!! Thursday mornings, with Tara as her coach, she is finally ready to be a tumbler!! She did great!!! When she is three, we will start her in Miss Mo's dance class!! Can't wait for that, either!!! WAIT A GO, IZEE!!

These were the papers saying what she accomplished today!!

Donkey kicks

Attempting a hot-dog roll... Maybe we will do better at this one next week (smile)

jumping jumping jumping.

This Picture is for you Cheryl!! I LOVE this garland!! YOU SO TOTALLY ROCK CHERYL!!

Merry Christmas to everyone!!

Gabs on her new electric vespa!

Izee and Gabs opening up stuff

Baby doll with stroller, car seat, back pack and bed. SANTA TOTALLY SCORED WITH THIS GIFT!!

What did Gramma get you, Gabs?

An I-Pod cover... Not really sure why we didn't get her one sooner, but, better late then never

Izee thinking she is going to ride this beast. Not yet, honey

Skullcandy head phones... they are actually pretty good headphones!

Dora Dora Dora. Dora everything and the world is good

my girls

Gabs on a little drive

Sittin' proud!!!

Gabee's FIRST babysitting job!!!

Happy!!! Gabs was packed and ready to go to the Watt's house 30 minutes before Lynettey picked her up!!

Don't let her fool you, she was TOTALLY excited about her first babysitting job with Madi Watts...

practicing on disciplining!! LOOK OUT MADI (laughing)

This is her bag. Watch the video to be filled with love and understanding!!

Seriously. This video is going to crack you up, Lisa.. This video was supposed to be about Gabs, but, as you watch, you will experience my second by second life with Izee. She is a PILL!!!!!

IZEES NEW BED :(

Tonight, Izee's new Dora Bed was delivered by UPS!! She SCREAMED when she saw the box. By the time I got the camara, she had calmed down, dangit, but, was still excited (video at bottom of pics). Anyway, this is Izee in her crib for the VERY LAST TIME (mommy, crying hysterically!!

Crib taken apart. standing in the middle

Helping me build the bed

Climbing into her NEW bed

Standing on the new bed!!! and LOOKIN' PROUD!!!

jumping into the covies!!!

Gettin' clean for the new bed! She told me she wanted a bath to be clean for new bed (smile)

CLEAN AND READY TO BECOME A BIG GIRL!!!

Here she is. In her NEW BED :(

Lovin' the new bed

Nightie night, my beautiful big girl, Izee..... zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

No more monkey's jumping on the bed!!

This is Izee seeing her Dora box, after the UPS guy left.

She was screaming "DORA BED!!! DORA BED!!!" before I grabbed the camara!! oh well. Don't be afraid, that the box actually fell on top of her at the end of the video. That is why I had to stop filming immediately!

What do YOU do on a Sunday afternoon?

This past Sunday, the girls and I didn't even change out of our pajamas!! It was a totally, uneventful day. No church, nothin'. Just playin at our house...

Izee wouldn't leave Gabs alone. She wanted to climb inside her shirt. WHY YOU ASK?? Who knows how the mind of a two year old works!!

Almost through!!

So proud that she did it!!

Then to get her out of the shirt......

nearly dropped her!

TA-DA!!!!

REETA WINS!!!

This is Gabs and Izee playing tug-of-war with Reeta. I am continually amazed at our dog. She is such a perfect animal. She will play as rough as Gabs wants, but, when Izee starts to play, she goes easy on her and lets her take the sock...

After she knocked Izee down, she kept licking her to see if she was okay... LOVE YOU REETA!!!

Gabs, the concert Cellist

Last week was Gabee's debut with her cello!!! It was awesome, and she did perfectly. I was so proud of her..... Notice that all the other girls are wearing "black", but, Gabs chose to stand out, a bit!! GO GABS

Halloween Pics

What a great halloween night!!! Except, Gabs was gone... She is old enough to go with her friends (sniff sniff)... BUT, we had a ball. Izee was hilarious!! She LOVED having all of our crazy neighbors at our door!!

Thanks for comin' to our house everyone... With our animated, creepy guys talkin', our sound system blarin "the nightmare before christmas, halloween song", and the doorbell dingin' all night long, it was an AWESOME evening!! I bought 15 bags of candy and I only have about 30 pieces left... That is what I call a successful Halloween!

Why is it illegal to beat your children??

Erik told me that he and Cindy put Katie in timeout in her room, so, I tried that today. Usually I just plop Izee in a corner in whatever room we are in. So, I tried the Erik Reaveley technique.

Thanks for the pillow, Auntie Lisa!!

Lisa, you totally SCORED with this pillow. She will not let anyone touch it, breathe on it, look at it, or attempt to desire it in any way. This is HER pillow!!!

Couldn't get her out bed today, because of it!!

Our day at Wheeler Farm

Don't you just love hangin' out with your friends?? Shalee, thanks for chillin' with Izee and me every month!! Can't wait til our next adventure!!

Izee, lookin' at the ducks!!
Shalee and Liza. My favorite thing about Liza is that she won't keep her shoes on!! Is this a girl after my own heart or what!!

Izee running down the stairs to go feed the ducks!!

wheeler continued

Liza and Izee... lookin' at the pig

mom, what's that?
These two are always tryin' to hug each other. Iz is movin in for the hug!! Notice Liza reachin' for her mom, after full body contact ensues.

Mikes 45th birthday!!

45 years ago, on a day just like today... Mike was born..... We had a great dinner with his mommy tonight... Lonestar Steak House... Sweet potatos... Prime Rib... I MISSED VIDEOING THE Happy Birthday SINGING, that was sweeeet!! and ended the night with a giant sugar rush!!

Isn't she a total hottie??!! This is Mike's cute mom. I love this woman!
That is HUGE!!
yummmmmm... chocolate!!

Izee was not interested in the brownie sunday. She only wanted to eat the cinnamon/brown sugar dry mix, that came with gramma's sweet potato.... ewwwww!!

We've Been BOO'd!!!!

I would love to say that I didn't know who boo'd us, however, I was actually on the front porch when "the mystery neighbor" walked up and handed our cute gifts to us!!!

This is Izee's first time on a bouncy ball. I didn't get on video her first five minutes, which were actually pretty hilarious. GO IZEE!!

OUR LATEST AND GREATEST!!!

This was Bryan and Lisa's birthday gift to Mike... PERFECT for our "HOUSE OF HORRORS!!"

I sure hope all my neighbors will come visit us on halloween... we just LOVE to EAT little children!!! oooops I MEAN... we just LOVE to give children treats!! yea yea, that's what I meant!!

Izee!!! YOUR WINGS "AREN'T" REAL!!

This is our little family, TRYING to watch the last 5 minutes of Iron Man with our FULL BLOWN TWO YEAR OLD!!! AGGHHH she tires us out!!

Could someone please tell her, those wings aren't real!!????

(before I get the emails, yes, she DID do a belly flop and, yes, she is fine!!!)

be afraid.... be VERY AFRAID!!!

I can't wait for all of the unsuspecting little children who will stumble upon our humble abode on Halloween eve....
Don't be afraid, my little morsels...

Last year, only a handful of children ran away screaming and crying from our door step!!!!! (eviiiillll laugh!!)

FALL IS HERE!!!

Well, Fall is here!! We already have some of our halloween decorations out. Gabs and Mike LOVE halloween and I LOVE the entire season...



This is Mikes mask. He adores this ugly thing!!!

I put it on and tried to scare Gabs two nights ago!!!

I slowly opened up the door and jumped out screaming in gutteral, creepy sounds, and waving my hands up and down!!!

Unfortunately, it wasn't Gabs.. It was Izee in the hallway and she fell over backwards CRYING and SCREAMING and FROZEN with fear!! (laughing)... It took our family over 30 minutes to calm her down, but, before long, she was friends with the mask...



Great impression of the mask, Gabs!!
Oh yes...I almost forgot....

Beware neighbors.... We intend to scare your children on halloween!!!!

World War II

Gabs had to do a report on something old we had in our house. She did it on this WWII German helmet. (also on a bullet from the civil war and a trunk that came across the plains with mikes family)... She wore the helmet around school the next day... (laughing...)

Mikes Little Boots

Izee

has discovered Mikes boots, from when he was a kid. She loves them.. Wears them a lot. Today she had clothes on, usually she is in her diaper only, and these boots... What a goof

HELP!!! I'M GUCK!!!

Wow... What a shocker... Izee is up to no good again!!

She is OBSESSED with our dvd/video shelf (thank you Matt, it is both beautiful and well secured to the wall!!)

ANYHOO, she climbs it on a daily basis, then lets out her blood, curdling scream, "I'M GUCK!!!"

Here's a thought!!! STOP CLIMBING UP THE WALL, YOU LITTLE PILL!!!

This is an interesting week

This one's for you Jude!!!

One of my greatest friends, Judy Allen ( http://www.judyallen.com/ ) came over yesterday for her monthly nail appointment. I always look forward to her appointments, because she is one of THE MOST positive people I have ever met.. She gave Izee a few bucks for a birthday present. We ran to Target that afternoon, and Izee picked out a phone and a mini-dora-doll... She wouldn't share those darn toys with anyone who came over that day... NO TOUCH and MINE were her favorite words...

This video shows what an attitude my darling little girl is developing... All I wanted was for her to say thank you, to Jude... WHAT THE???

Naughty Little Izee

Seriously.. What the heck is going on?? Agggghhhhh. This video is nothin'. I should have taken a picture of her yesterday, on her THIRD body-art attempt... I thought I hid every single marker in this house, but, I guess not!! Right before I started filming this, Izee got in trouble, so, she looks verrrry sad.. I feel bad that I got so angry, but, how many times can you bathe a kid in one day for doing the same, dang thing over and over and over and over and over.... Seriously?? I cannot turn my head for one minute?? SERIOUSLY??

Izee Has A "Pre-Birthday" birthday

Mike and I didn't want to have a giant party this year for Izee. She really has no idea what is going on, however, I did have Sunday dinner with my family and we pseudo-celebrated her birthday a couple weeks early. It was a a fun evening with my fam. Izee looked confused most of the night, but, she loved the attention and the gifts (smile) She opted for the cookie uncle Craiggy brought, instead of her birthday brownie!! yummy
Katie and Mitchy were more then happy to help her open up her presents!
By the way, THANKS A LOT FOR THIS GIFT!!! She toots this dang thing ALL DAY LONG!!! TOOT TOOT TOOT TOOT!!! AggggghhhhhH!! I WANT KATIE'S NAME THIS YEAR FOR CHRISTMAS!!!! (revenge is sweeeeet)
Thanks Cindy, this was the greatest gift. My friend, Stefie Munk let us borrow her video that goes along with it. Izee is doing great with her letters and sounds!!

MUST HAVE DORA

Izee is SOOO into Dora. Auntie Lisa SCORED with this gift. Izee sleeps with her (notice the pic of her unconscious, with her arm around Dora), she carries her everywhere. An most excellent choice, Lis!!

Izee's Birthday Suit!!

On Izee's pre-birthday, I gave her a choice to march around all day in her birthday suit! This is what she opted for... I'd have gone naked, but, hey, that's just me (smile)

LAGOON WITH FRIENDS!! a totally, terrific, perfect day

Meet Brad, another of Gabee's friends. He's great. We have wanted to take him with us "somewhere" this summer, but, never got around to it. It only took about $50 but, they finally won these stupid ties (laughing)
First ride... Cliff Hanger... Got very wet.
This was Brads FIRST time on Wicked. He is biting his nails, and Gabs doesn't look like she is doing too well either!!
Wild Mouse

COLOSUS

The Hot Dog

So, Brad had never gone on the hot dog. He needed a "little bit (cough, a LOT)" of coaxing, but, he finally decided to take the plunge. They are harnessed and ready to fly!!!!

This is a classic. Typical Gabs, explaining what is going to pass before his eyes.
TRIUMPH!!!
WHEEEEE SUCCESS

Brad, you did it!! I am so proud of you, bud!! YOU SO TOTALLY ROCK DUDE!!

more gabs and brad

These two were hilarious.. I was laughing the whole day! You can't see behind them here, but, the skycoaster is in tha background... CONGRATS BRAD on conquering your fear!!

Oh yea, love this pic...
Sometimes I feel like doing the same thing, Brad!
Hangin' on the sky-ride

What would we do without our friends...

Many Decades Later

This is Eliza. Izee's newest friend. She is hilarious. She is the daughter of one of my best friends, when I was 8 years old. Shalee. Most of my memories, before my mom died, included some crazy adventure with Shalee (laughing).

Today we got together for the first time in nearly 25-30 years (AGGH... man we're old).Eliza found a brown marker in the house, and while Shalee and I were catching up on our lives, Liza colored all over her legs!!! and the computer screen and a couple cd's (laughing)... Thank goodness it wasn't a permanent marker!! Totally funny little girls... Ya gotta love the terrible two's...
Here are Liza and Izee piggin' out on fishies, juice boxes, granola bars, grapes, and whatever else we could put in front of them (smile)
Isn't she adorable?!!
Sorry for putting this one in, Shalee, but, I just love this picture...

Here she is.. Shalee Snow... She looks exactly the same as she did 30 years ago... only prettier... Thanks for making the drive up north, Shalee. Can't wait 'til next month!!!

What do you do, when sis is at school all day??

This video is something that happens "every day of the week"...

Izee climbs up on her sisters bed, snuggles with Gabee's blankey, watches Gabs tv and waits for her to come home from school, or gym...

She drags her books and toys into Gabs' room, and wants to play in there all days. Today, she was very sad and missed Gabee a lot.

Re-visiting my little Gabbers

Wow... Gabee just turned 11 years old. I can hardly believe that. Time really does fly by. I fell in love with this little girl, the minute I laid eyes on her, and we have been inseparable, ever since.

Here's a few pics of her life, thus far...

Gabs had a headache

Gabs had her friend, Ashley, over the other day. Gabs had a headache (she never gets those). They were lying on her top bunk, watching t.v., so, I bounded in with my pedicure stuff and did all their toes (Gabs on the left, Izee middle, and Ashley right)

Gabs. She and Ashley wanted polka dots... Not very exciting nail art.

I LOVE this green.. I love the blue also... Cute girls

Remembering Witness, I mean Providence, I mean Witness !!!

Truly, NO ONE will appreciate this entry, except Camilley and Kerilyn!! This was our first picture taken, as the "rogue gospel-rock-band" Witness!! (laughing)... Taken in front of a FULLY packed Volvo, in Holladay. Picked me up, then off we went to our awesome adventure in Estes Park, Colorado!!

Serious Hotties!! Camilley, Heidi, Jules and Kerilyn. We're babes!
Okay, I think this was taken after our first concert. WE TOTALLY ROCKED THE HOUSE. Unfortunately, that was the best we sounded the entire trip :) However, we still took 3rd out of 1,800 other bands! I still say, we were black listed because we weren't Baptist!!
Isn't this Chris?? Who is this guy? I think he is the one who wrote "Falling in Freedoms Arms", right?

This was our very, mysteriously, dressed in black teacher, who taught us how to move around on the stage. Truth be told, he kind of creeped me out, but he really knew his stuff, didn't he??

more estes... What a fun trip with the girls

I have totally drawn a blank on her name. Anyone know who this woman is. GREAT VOICE....

What a fun trip this was. I'm not really sure why Kerilyn and Camille are showing me what is in their mouth, but, EWWWW...
These elk were outside our front door one morning. We had the quaintest little cabin we stayed in.

The girls .... Good Times.......

The Johnson Family Reunion!!

Well, we were only going for two days, but, for some reason, our Ford Escape was fully loaded!!! This pic was only 1/2 our stuff... WHAT THE HECK??


Started out with Gabs trying to watch King Kong on the way up (a big NO on that one).

Once we got there, it was a blast. Catch, Cookouts, Cousins, Swings, Horses, Blowup Bouncers, Tents, Sleepouts, Fun, Fire Crackers, Laughter, Tears.... It was a blast!!



What a hottie!

Nothin' like Grampa's Tire Swing!!!

Is there anything better then swingin' at your grampas ranch?? Izee and Gabs just loved it.....

Actually, Gabs has almost outgrown these swings, but, she still had fun.

Izee, on the other hand, was smooshed inside one of these three swings, nearly our entire trip.

What cute girls I have!
We even had to bring Izee's food to the swing. She did not want to get out for one minute (except to see the horses)

Horsey Horsey On Your Way!!

Of course, on the ranch there are horses. Beautiful horses. Izee had never really paid much attention to horses before, but, she LOVED them this trip!!!

Mike had told Gabs about his horseback riding stories when he was her age. Three different times. Three different horses bit him. He has put the fear of you know what into her, so, she was timid around these poor, helpless horses!!





Izee wasn't afraid at all. She couldn't get close enough!

This is a video of Izee, immitating the horses and their noises!!

Farewell To Snarr Road

On the way home, we stopped by old "snarr road" to say farewell to the house Mikes father was raised in... To our surprise, "snarr road" has been renamed "1100 North", and the house his dad once lived in had been demolished.... We knew that was coming, but, didn't realize it had already happened.

It really affected Mikey... He has a lot of childhood memories in this place.

In the upper left-hand corner of some pics, you will see some furniture and miscellaneous things... Amongst these, was the front door of the house. Mike reallllllllly wanted to go to Fred Meyer, buy some bunji cords and take it home.





The ball says "Lee Snarr"... So, Gabs took it home




This is what the lot looks like now... Houseless :(

He was definitely going to take something home from this site, and he actually found something of use!!

Lots of little wood pieces were strewn about... Very sad to see "no house".....
Farewell Annabell and Farewell Dads House......

Gabee's Birthday!!

This was the FIRST time Gabee wasn't home for her birthday. She was asked to go white water rafting with her friend, Tia... Gabs had a blast. They camped, visited Yellowstone, and ended up on the Snake River, where they rafted for two days. The first pic, Gabs is in the the front of the boat with her mouth WIDE open (Tia is next to her with her eyes shut tight)!! The second pic, her raft was submerged. Third pic, notice the guy in the lower left-falling out of the boat (Tia is next to Gabs with her eyes shut tight), and in the last pic, he is no longer on the raft and Gabs mouth is STILL wide open(Tia, still sitting next to Gabs, eyes glued shut... laughing)... They lost 6 passengers on this particular voyage...

I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Gabrielle, truly frightened. It takes a lot to scare her!!! Funny pictures...

Anyway, she had a blast!!! Family Trip Anyone??????

Our little musician!!

Although, Gabs looks homocidal in second picture, she is really looking forward to learning to play the cello. I hope they teach her how to hold the bow on Monday, during her first class... Music is required at her awesome little fine arts school, and she chose this instrument. I just know she is going to be a virtuoso!!!!

Today Gabs went back to school!!!

I can't believe summer is over... It flew by this season... not happy

Truly, I was so sad to take Gabs back to school today... I feel like we needed another month to hang out... It happened way too soon.. Anyhoo.... Here is a pic of her in her "casual" uniform.
Cutie
She really isn't onery in this pic, she is finishing up a disco move..... Quite a diva
Of course, we ran into Ashley Counter, Gabs bestest bud. They are not in the same class this year, and she was BUMMED OUT!!!! they both are bummed not to see each other in home room, but, I'm sure they will meet at recess every day!! What would we do without best friends??

Munkies returned too!

Hayden, Harley and Hunter

I missed these little Munkey's this summer. Was fun to see them again, all duded up and ready for a new year.... Awesome new glasses Hayd, and Har-I LOVE your hair!!! Hunter, I miss your glasses, but you look great anyway!!

Remembering Marilyn

Sad thing.... This is a picture of my dearest friend, Marilyn Adams... She passed away this week, in her sleep. I am extremely sad about her passing. We just spoke two weeks ago, and I had just received an email from her the day she died. When my mom died (I was 12), Marilyn stepped in and became my "surrogate" mother... She was hilarious. I do not think I have ever laughed harder, then the times I spent with Mare. Liquid has spewed through my nostrils on many occasions, becuase she made me laugh so hard. A kid at heart, without a doubt the most positive influence on my life, service oriented, never put herself first, stalwart in her beliefs and religion, LOVED her family. She taught me what a family is supposed to be. I will miss my second mom.... I will miss my friend....

Unfortunately, her funeral is on the day, Gabs and I were supposed to go to California. Therefore, I have cancelled the trip. Gabs was so broken-hearted about the cancellation of our trip. She was really looking forward to some "alone time" with her and I again.

She is too young to understand the importance of this woman in my life, and life-saving role she played.... but, when she is older, maybe she will.

Is it just me??

Last night, while Mike and I were watching the mens, usa, gymnastics team, we could NOT get over how much Chaser looks like Justin!!! I mean, in a few years, this is what Chase is going to look like?? Is it just me?? I wish I had a better picture of Chase, but, you get the drift... We have a look-a-like in our family!

HELP!!! My dog is killing our lawn!!

HELP.... Our little, female bundle of joy, is killing our lawn...

Apparently, her urine is deadly......

Any ideas?? Any suggestions?? Anyone have any advice?? Ditchin' the dog is NOT an option.

Sunday Dinner....

I don't know about you, but, I LOVE having dinner with my family on a beautiful, sunny, Sunday afternoon. Cindy, Erik, Katie and Joshy came over today and we had a great time. I love you guys!! This is Cindy, with the girls, doing summersaults!! I missed YOUR summersault, Cind!! (i think i am mis-spelling somersault?? sommersault?? SUMMERSAULT?? you get the meaning)

Katie, upside down
Gettin' dirty in the sandbox. (this was a good dirty. Katie fell in the mud one hour after this pic was taken... sorry about that, guys!!) Reeta has a new friend... I learned something new about Katie... She LOVES dogs... !!

Dinner with Cindy and Erik

This is Erik and Joshy. He is the BEST baby... Never makes a peep, unless it is one with laughter. What a cutie!! Katie and Izee are really beginning to play together. I am looking forward to a long and fabulous friendship between these two....
Katie, you are so cute...

See you next time!!! Thanks for the fun afternoon Guys!!

Surprise Gabs!!!

While Gabs was at gymnastics camp this week (park city, 4 days)... I MISSSSSSED her. I am NOT going to do well when she actually has to leave me and go to school, or married, or whatever... AGGH!!! Anyhoo, while she was away, I tried to make myself busy by over-hauling her room. She had made a comment that she wanted an "older" room, not so toddlerish... SO.... I madly painted her room, then Leigh Okleberry came over and painted the flowers (THANK YOU LEIGH, you're AWESOME). Lynettey Watts did the vinyl (absolutely perfect!!) And I frantically tried to get Gabee's room "older". She LOVED it!! Just to see her smile makes life worth living!!
This is a little video showing Gabee's room... I ran out of time, so, there isn't a border yet.... Leigh and Lynettey, thanks a million!! Gabs loved it!

Mikes Family

We spent most of last week with Mikes family. His Aunt and cousins were in town (D.A., Laura, Erika and Aubrey). As well as his mom and dads best friends, "the hallocks" (whom we love and adore). Thanks for Mexican Train and the fish fry Dale!!! You're awesome!

two little buddies

My niece, Ari, is such a darling little girl. On the 25th, we hung out with Mikes family at my cute mother-in-laws house. Ari is only 1 and Izee is turning 2 in a few weeks, so, they don't exactly play together yet, but, they seem to really like being around each other. I can't wait for them to get a few years older and become great friends!!

Gabs first homemade cake!!

Today, Gabs made her very, first, homemade chocolate cake and frosting "from scratch"!! We used my moms recipe and it turned out awesome. She did fabulous andit tasted DELICIOUS!! GO GABS!!

...THE 24th...

What a fun day... Izee's first experience with fireworks. She did awesome, til she grabbed the firework on the hot end and burned herself... much fun had by everyone

Pedicure/Manicure Day with Izee!!

Well, I wouldn't say it was a raging success, but, Izee wanted her nails painted again today...

Trying to get Iz to sit still while soaking her feet, polishing her nails and painting flowers was, as always, a challenge!! But, she is hilarious afterwards... I love this girl!!

Fun at Bear Lake

You can't tell it from Mike or Gabee's pictures, but, our summer trip to Bear Lake was so much fun. (Mike insists on talking while his picture is taken, so, he always looks onery!! and Gabs is in a new phase.... The "I'm not gonna smile" phase..WHATEVER) Anyhoo.... This year we took a couple of Gabs' friends from gym, Tia and Brynn. Izee, me and the girls played at the beach and the pool every minute, of every day. Thank goodness, Mike was able to make it up for half the trip. I LOVE him not working weekends, and nights!! Family time is so much better when the whole family is there to enjoy it!! Check out my hottie hubby!! OH YEAH!! Go babe!!

Bear Lake Continued

Seriously, how can you not love hanging with your kids and their friends?? This trip ended WAY too soon. Thanks Gabs, Tia and Brynn!! You made this trip a blast!!
Check out this video!! Gabs double front into the pool, and her cute gymnast friends and their dives!! woo hoo!!

JULY FOURTH WITH THE REAVELEYS!

Can I just say how much I love my family!! Every One Of Them!! We missed the Ken Reaveley's, but, we all had a blast hanging out together. Craig, you are being very naughty with Brayden in this picture... Lis, can Bray hear after this water torture?? I mean, MY GOODNESS!! Thanks for another fun fourth of july, guys!! I love you all...
In my opinion, Sandy City has THE BEST fireworks in Salt Lake. They might even give New York a run for its money!! For those of you who missed them, watch my "sandy city fireworks finale" video. Doesn't do it justice, but, maybe you can feel the love!!

July 4th with the Reaveley's!!!

Most of these pics are of Cindy and Erik's kids. I can't help it. I'm drawn to the babies!!!!! Also, I want to point out that Cindy is actually eating an apple.... For those of you who know her, it is a miracle when you see Cindy put any fruit or vegetable into her mouth!!! GO CINDY GO CINDY!!! I just had to capture it, in case it didn't happen again...!! (smile)

July 3rd....Our Celebration with the SNARR'S!!

Wow, July 3rd was an absolutely FUN day!! We LOVE hanging out with Mom, Chris, Amber and their kids. It is always a great time had by all. We headed up Park City to party with the Disco Drippers. Chris, as most of you know, is their amazing percussionist, and they totally rocked the Canyons. We danced, watched fireworks, played together, swam together, then retired to our homes, completely exhausted!! Thanks for inviting us Chris!!! As always YOU SO TOTALLY ROCK DUDE!! (we're watching Finding Nemo a lot these days, forgive the surfer jive).... P.S. Is it just me, or is my mother in law a TOTAL HOTTIE!!!!
Izee is a Drippers fan already... Gabs has loved the Drippers since Izee's age, and now Izee is a groupie... not to mention, she is practically a SOLID GOLD DANCER, YES!!!!

JULY 3rd...the Snarr's Celebration Continued....

Lots of pics of our family, hanging out... Great day.... By the way, Mike and Amber DO make a cute couple, however, they are not together!! (smile) And for those friends of mine who live in New York and Chicago, Mike is NOT a polygamyst... I SWEAR!!! SHE IS MY SISTER IN LAW!! (laughing)

Mom and Izee at Lagoon

Those of you who know Mike, know that he has defended Lagoon from the time he entered our family 14 years ago... He lived in Farmington as a youth, and he even worked at the pool during his highschool summer years!!)... Well, it's official. Izee is definately his off spring!! She is addicted!! So are Gabs and I. The people who frequent Lagoon, are, hmmm how can I put it nicely... questionable... But, we don't go for the people, we go for the rides and Lagoona Beach!! Here is Izee on a couple of her favorites!!

Fun State Meet

This is Tia (one of Gabee's bestest friends and teammates)and Gabs, after their LAST meet as "level six" competitors!! It was state, and they both had a great meet, but, I think they enjoyed the ribs we ate afterwards much more (as you can see from the sauce on Gabee's chin)... Although, this was not Gabee's best meet (those are her words, not mine) because she wobbled on the beam and didn't stick her back extension roll on floor (WHATEVER!!) I attached a few videos for you to see what she has been up to the past year. The next time you see her in a competition, she will be a level seven ... She will have her own routines on all the events with her own music!! We don't expect her to begin another competition season for 1 to 1 1/2 years, so, Congratulations to Gabs for being moved up another level in gym. Level "7" Here You Come!! YOU GO GIRL!!

Gabs, you are totally awesome and I couldn't be more proud of you!!

I "love" my girls.. I mean, I "LOVE" my girls!

My great friend Camille (from Providence) called me two days ago and asked if I would accompany her at a funeral in Pleasant Grove today.

So, I did. I was gone all day, then dropped my kids at two different houses and took off to the funeral (it started at 5:00).

When I got there, to my surprise, it was a tragic, tragic sad death.

A beautiful 17 year old boy had committed suicide. Shot himself. I don't know where the bullet went in, because it was an open casket and he looked as peaceful and beautiful as he did in his pictures...

His mother had taken, it seemed, "every" picture she had of her son.... and, well.... the entire relief society room was plastered with them... There were so many things to remember him by... I wil tell you there were as many shoes as there were pictures. They had them all displayed (So many shoes.. he was obsessed!!)

SOOO tragic. Everyone was "bawling", of course. This little 16 year old girl took me aside and asked me, "why didn't he feel he had another choice"....

This kid was captain of the football team, soccer team AND baseball team, if you can believe that..
He took his mom to his "last and final" prom two weeks ago... Here was his first "fault", his grades had slipped so he was grounded from taking the girl he asked. Rather then miss his prom, he opted to take his mom instead----Their families best friend mentioned that in his talk. He said that Ty's mom called this friend the day after the prom in tears, saying she had had the perfect evening with her son... She couldn't remember a more fun night---coincidence?? Or tender mercy??

He worked full time at Golds Gym. He had bought a car two weeks ago and had just signed a contract last week to do something with the pro-golf tour!!

WHAT??

He was the ultimate child. Happy, confident and full of a million opportunities at the beginning of his adult life... He was the kid we all pray that we have...

Listening to everyone talking in the room, it seemed that they expected ANYONE but Ty to end their life this way...

I don't know why, but, this next part was devastating to me...
He was an only child..
That broke my heart.
Not saying that losing a child would be easier if you had more then one. Of course it would be devastating in any circumstance, but, he was their only child... Their pride and joy, and my heart was breaking the entire service as I watched them and their sadness...

I couldn't wait to get home and hug my girls and praise them and hug them again, and tell them great things about themselves....

I've been so sad thinking of what those parents are going to endure the entire rest of their lives.... They are only in their early 40's.... So many years without their their child!! AGH... SAD

Anyway, Give your children a hug today and tell them great things about themselves....

WHAT A FUN DAY AT THE ZOO!!!

Today Gabs, Izee and I went to the zoo. We were headed to Raging Waters, but, with the wind and the cool 77 degrees, we opted for the zoo instead. What a total blast. Izee was in awe at the awesome animals. And, surprisingly, Gabs was loving it too! I love hanging with my kids!

Total blast at the zoo

Here are a few pics of some of the animals that we loved!

Check out my Slide Show!

Sad but True... These ARE snowmen

Well... It snowed, of course, this past winter. And Gabs decided to go build herself a couple snowmen. Here they are. After we laughed (didn't mean to, because she worked REALLY hard on them), but, anyway, after we laughed, Gabs, Izee and I all went out and built another snowman... It was a totally awesome day! ps.s Thanks to Monique Draper, who lent Izee a snow suit!!! LOVE YOU MO!!

SO AWESOME!! This was the Second Time Around. What an AMAZING DAY

Sometime in Bear Lake

We love to go to Bear Lake. This particular time we took Gabs good friend, Sophia!! They partied and had massive crushes on Ben Hornes three sons!!

Izee and her books

Honestly... Izee "loves" books. She would rather have you read for two hours, then sit and play with her toys.... She DEFINITELY takes after her daddy on this one... I just can't relate... Hopefully she will be interested in either Math or Music at one point in her life, but, until then, I think we have a "daddy's girl" a-brewin'!

Daddy Time

Honestly. I cannot get Michael to stop talking when I take his picture!! This is, however, the closest Michael has ever come to actually smiling in one!!

Little Josh

Well, I can't believe Josh is old enough to be blessed. I didn't get a good picture of him in his blessing outfit (Cindy or Lis, you need to post one, my pics didn't really turn out!).. ANYHOO... But, Josh (who is a little heavier then Katie was at this age.. smile), had to wear braces for a few weeks, so, I thought I would post this picture so we can all see his "before" pictures!!

Josh's Blessing

Here are the typical pics you will always see of my family. Craig with his hand in front of his face (very annoying!!), Cute Kenny, just hanging out... Bryan with a smile on his face... I love my family!

Josh's Blessing Pics

Here is Deniece and Josh. You can't really see Josh very well, but, he is extremely beautiful! Also, in case you haven't heard, Deniece has lost over 60 pounds!!! GO DENIECE!

Fun at Josh's Blessing

In these photos, you get to see, Nathan, Gabs, Kyle, Mitchy, and Brayden. I think these five kids alone, gave Erik another migrane!!

Our Newest Family Addition!

Well, we were supposed to have had a baby by this time, but, instead, we adopted this darling little doggie... Her name is "reeta" and she is the "perfect" dog. Izee lays on her, pulls her hair, pokes her teeth and tried to ride her like a horse today, and all without any wounds!! This dog does not bite. EVER!!! We love her!

Dads Game

Michael is on two softball teams this season. Tonight he had a game with the "men's team" and they won 26 to 9 !!! I actually felt bad for the other team for a while (smile)....

Izee on the trampoline

What a great day!!

Trampoline and Sprinklers. A great combination!

It was FINALLY sunny today... Two days ago it was snowing, and as I type this, there is rain falling all around, however, the sun was hot today and the girls and I took full advantage of it!! That's right... We partied!!

SUMMER BEGINS!!

Today we blew up the swimming pool and turned on the sprinklers... When I say we blew up the swimming pool, I mean, Gabrielle and I LITERALLY blew up the pool... Also, Mike had taken our hoses to the storage unit, so, I had to fill that 100 gallon pool up by hand... It took a little while, but, was WELL worth it!!

What goes UP

must come down!!

Kangaroo Zoo

Well, this is where we will be celebrating Izee's b-day, so, I hope you all enjoy these pics. Gabs, Izee and I went to Kangaroo Zoo today and had a total blast!! We all played really hard, climbed, went down slides and jumped. It was so much fun, we bought a pass for the next few times.... Enjoy!!

Gymnastics in St. George

Well, ya'll, we just got back from a gymnatsics meet in St. George... And guess what, Gabs took her very first, FIRST place as a level six competitor. It was such a nail biter this weekend. They compete in age groups, so, there were MASS amounts of 10 year olds, but, only 6 eleven year old competitors, etc. For some reason, in her age group, there were nearly 20 competitors.. Now these gymnasts are at the gym, working out for 9-15 hours per week, and they are allllll very good, but, NOT as great as Gabs this weekend!! She took 5th in the all around, but, she kicked butt in her vault and her floor routine!!! GO GABS!!!

Way too much fun at the Petting Zoo

Thanksgiving Point has a little petting zoo. This was Izee's first time looking at these animals.... Gabs is such a great big sister....

Petting Zoo

We went on a little road trip to Thanksgiving Point. It was a fun time at the petting zoo...

Easter 2008-more pics

Awesome day...

Easter 2008

Easter was really fun this year because Gabs was still into it and Izee was one, so, she wasn't entirely clueless!! What would we do without our kids??

uhmmmm GROSS!

Could someone please tell this kids mother that she is licking that?? Ewwwww!

Your Royal Highness

Princess Number "one"..

your highness

Princess Number two....

awwww

I love this girl. Our cute Izee..

nothing like a cruise

Here is our ship off the Port of Ensenada or Catalina.. I can't remember which... Either way, it was a beautiful sight.

yummy!!

Nothing like deep fried everything at the Disneyland Park.. I think their apples are even deep fried there...

mike and jules

Now, what ride sould we go on next... hmmm let's think about that one...

catalina island was awesome

In November of 2007, our family headed off to DisneyLand, then onto a cruise. One of our ports was Catalina Island. It was beautiful. We had an enormously unhealthy breakfast at a quaint little restraunt. We rented a little golf cart and tootled around the entire island. I was amazed at its beauty!! I think Gabs and I added to its beauty, don't 'cha think?? I mean... Can you say "hotties!!!"

Tired Much??

This is how we all felt by the end of the day.. I was pregnant, so I was VERY tired, but, couldn't go on any rides... Maybe I was tired of not going on any rides!! Anyway, we would get back to the Dineyland Hotel and just D-I-E!!! we all loved this trip

yet another

Yet another handstand in Bugs Life!! Watch out Gabs!!! Hopper is right by you!!

Catalina Handstand

One of the cool things Bugs does, is handstands around the good ol' U.S.A. (Someday it will be, handstands around the world, should we ever dare to cross the ocean!!)... BUT for now, it is handstands across the U.S.

Here is here beautious form in Catalina Island.. fun fun fun

HOLY COW

But then...... He realllllly got excited on Catalina Island!! He saw two lonely, little friends... Just staring at him.. calling to him.... mike.... mike... bring us home with you... place us next to your OTHER ceramic cheesburger and wooden indian in your home.... you want us... you realllllly want us..... take us home... And then I whacked him upside the head and said, NO WAY!!!

Mike was almost in heaven

You would think Mike had died and gone to heaven, when he saw this "life-sized" indian on the side of the road, in Disneyland........ For some weird reason, we all know he is drawn to these weird things......