Brown Town

Footy Pajamas

2012-01-11T21:07:00.002-07:00

Ever wonder how to properly put on footy pajamas? Well Hugo has it down to an art and has graciously provided us here with a picture tutorial.

First you need to make sure you got the right ones. Make sure everything is right, no arms are inside out or anything.

Next find a clear enough work space and lay your PJs out flat on the ground. Make sure the arms and legs are outward.

Then sit right down in the middle and put your feet into the foot spot.

Then (with your serious face on) put your arms in the arm holes.

Then start the zip, still in the siting position.

For best results, lay down when you get to the hips and continue zipping until you get to the top.

Stand up and what do you know!!! You did it!

New Year's wishes

2012-01-02T18:29:00.004-07:00

We went to our friend's Ryan and Becky's for New Years eve and had an absolute blast. We haven't been to a NYE party for years. We had great company, excellent food, fun games and after we rang in with kisses, cider and fireworks, Becky had paper lanterns for everyone that we all set off together. We grabbed one (thanks Becky!) to bring home and do with the kids.

So Sunday as soon as it got dark we took it to our parents for a little activity that I think will be our new, New Year's tradition.

(Jack was excited!)

Before unfolding it we each shouted out and then I wrote some one-word hopes we have for 2012. I started with my hope of health this year. Some others were spirituality, unity, peace, happiness, love and Logan even shouted out, a 6-pack.

We then took it out to the drive way, opened it up, lit the bottom and waited for it to fill up with hot air. We then all talked about how much better this year is going to be and all that we hope for ourselves and each other.

We watched our hopes float slowly above us.

Up above the palm trees

It was so magical.

I hope 2012 brings peace and happiness.

For you

for your family

for your kids

and for me.

Christmas

2012-01-02T17:11:00.003-07:00

We had planned on going to Prescott early in the week and then celebrate with the Browns on Thursday, but with us just barely out of the hospital we had to reschedule everything. Thankfully it worked out for everyone (well Mom, Ryan and Krista's family, Patrick and Chaz and our family. We missed TJ and Adelia and Kelly and Heather). We had a beautiful breakfast Christmas eve morning at Patrick and Chaz's house. We then opened gifts from each other and sat and visited while the kids played in the front yard.

Later that night we had a quick dinner with the Fullers and opened gifts that night. We were going to do it after church but Logan and Clarissa had to hurry over to his grandparent's so they could talk to Cole, Logan's brother, who is on a mission. It was a last minute switch but it worked out perfectly. Especially because I woke up throwing up Christmas morning. I think it must have been food poisoning because I was the only one hit with it and it left 24hrs later.

Shawn took the kids to church Sunday morning and then him, the kids and my parents came over and we opened presents at home. We had an early dinner with the Fullers, everyone but the Baxters were there. My dad's parents even stopped by. It was a great evening, even though I didn't feel that great.

Monday we had a great day playing croquet and spending a beautiful day outside. We then went to Prescott on Shawn's birthday (the 28th) and spend a few days with his mom and Ryan and Krista. The first half of our Christmas break was pretty tough, but the second week was great!

Our kids made out like bandits and got more toys than ever before. Shawn and I got lucky and got a REAL, grown up, camera!!!

YAY, no more phone picture updates.

Our Hospital visit in pictures via my phone

2012-01-02T15:33:00.009-07:00

Hugo getting checked out.

They just told us we were getting a room. I guess Hugo doesn't know what he is getting into. Other wise he would not be smiling.

He was a little unsure of the CT machine. He did very well and laid perfectly still. He was so brave!

Jack came in for a visit and sat with him in his bed and they watched movies together. Little did we know, Jack would soon be getting his own room. The boys really missed each other those 6 days.

He was so brave getting his IV. This is on our way to the TOY ROOM where he got to pick a prize. He got to go twice and pick two toys. We only captured the first time. He was still his silly self.

He was so over-whelmed. He stood there for 5 minutes before deciding. There were so many cool things in that room.

He picked a box of blocks. He called it his machine. He would put in on his lap and arrange it lots of different ways, pushing buttons on his machine.

Grandma and Lacy brought him a bunch of gifts. This monkey was his favorite. He kept his "magic straw" (IV) safe.

After 3 days stuck in a hospital bed we asked for permission to go on a walk. They brought us a wagon and let us go with the IV on battery. We took a walk down to see the trains. He loved it! We ended up walking down there 4 times the next two days.

We had to snap a couple pictures of his room

He had lots of visitors. Grandma and Lacy thought he needed some Christmas in his room. He loved his tree and his Santa. As did all the nurses and doctors that came through.

He was such a trooper.

Lots of toys.

Some on loan from the Hospital.

This was on his way to get a second scan. We woke up this morning thinking he would be going home. Shortly after this picture we learned he would need surgery and we would be here another day.

While he was in surgery my parents took Jack into the ER. Some people at the hospital called me paranoid for thinking Jack had the same thing. I guess it goes to show that it is always better to be safe than sorry. I had two wristbands on. Something no mother should ever have to go through. They were put 3 doors down from eachother. At least they were close.

He was so sick, poor guy. They said his was way worse. That is why the opted for surgery right away, rather than trying to fix it with anti-biotics like they did with Hugo. I was glad because Hugo was immediately feeling better after surgery.

I opted to let Grandma stay with Jack for his CT. I had had enough radiation for a while. Jack was not as happy or still. He needed to be papoosed. Poor guy!

He cuddled with Grandma a lot that night.

He had a super high fever and two ear infections on top of everything else. We had to keep him undressed all night just to cool him off!

Hugo came down as soon as Jack got to his room. He brought him his Santa to help keep him safe. As soon as Hugo walked in Jack held up his hand and said, "look Hugo, I got a battery just like you!" That is what Jack called his IV. His cheerful attitude didn't last long. Poor guy felt so cruddy!

This is right before Jacks surgery. They gave him some meds to calm him down. You can tell he looks a little high.

Hugo came down to the waiting room with Charmaine while we were waiting for Jack to be done.

This was right before Hugo was able to go home. He's unhappy because they told him they were about to take his magic straw out. He wasn't happy because he was in there so long they had to change it once already. I think he thought he was getting it out to get a new one in. He was happy it was just out!

After Hugo woke up from surgery he was quiet and sweet. His biggest concern was that he was having a hard time keeping his eyes open. He was cuddly and sicky sweet. He just wanted someone to sit with him and love on him. My sweet boy Jack did not respond so well. I think it was a reaction to the Versed, Lacy had the same reaction after getting stitches once. Jack screamed for hours and hours. He ripped his IV out, kicked Shawn in the face, punched and scratched anyone that came near. It is absolutely heartbreaking when you are trying to comfort your baby and he is out of control. There was no calming him. The nurses had to keep telling me that this is a common reaction, he has no inhibitions, and he will not remember any of it. I was a complete wreck. It had been a very, very, very long week.

He was released the next day, doing much better. We were all ecstatic to get home before Christmas. It was such blessing.

Both the boys and Shawn's cultures came back positive for strep. While we were in the hospital Lacy was in Prescott with Shawn's mom. She called me and said she thought Lacy had chicken pox. They took her to the Dr and they cultured her red bumps. It turns out she also had strep, it just expressed itself in a different manner. She then broke out in a head to toe rash a week into taking her anti-biotics. The Dr. said it was erythema multiforme It reacted just like he said it would and is now 90% gone. We then took Roxy to the Dr. She has double ear infections and Broncholitis which they said is caused by RSV. Luckily we have a nebulizer from when Hugo had RSV so my pediatrician gave her some albuterol and her own mask. She seems to be doing much better as long as I give her treatments 2-3 times a day. While we were at the Pediatrician with Roxy he told us a little more about the retropharengial abscess He said in his whole career he had only seen two. He told us how uncommon it is. He also told us how serious it is. He said there is nothing you can do to prevent it, nothing that will help guard you against it, no immunization that will prevent it, nothing. He said we should really be counting out lucky stars that we were celebrating Christmas and not 2 funerals. It really struck me that day.

While we were going through it all I was kind-of drone like. I was trying so hard to keep calm. I knew that it was happening and there was really nothing we could do except be there, say lots of prayers and hope for the best. I am now trying to be a little more patient, a little more kind, and to hug my kids a little longer. I don't know what I would do with out my two sweet boys. I am saying prayers of thanks everyday that we were one of the lucky ones that did not have to experience such a tragedy. I know there are lots of people out there that are a lot less lucky.

My little 4yr old cousin was not so lucky. She passed recently after a 4yr battle with down-syndrom. She was such a trooper. I know she was a blessing to the family and she will now bless them from the other side.

I don't know why different people have different trials. I don't know why some end in tragedy and some end in celebration. All I know is that there is a plan for each of us, and right now I am grateful for the lessons learned and for all the health we do have.

It has been a very hard December for the Brown house but we continue to thank our Heavenly Father for all that we are blessed with and ask for guidance for things that try us.

Whaaaat?

2011-12-20T09:25:00.002-07:00

The first thing I thought after talking to my husband this morning was, "I can do anything you can do better, I can do anything better than you!"
I am completely loosing my mind. Yesterday the hospitalist came in and said she was going to discharge Hugo and that I could follow up with the ENT in a couple days. I told her I was not comfortable leaving without him seeing Hugo and giving him his ok. (I really had to throw a fit about it) so in a couple hours he came in and said they put your discharge orders in but I wanted to see you before you left. I told him I thought Hugo was doing worse than the day before, he took one look and said you can absolutely not leave, I want another CT scan right away, and then we went to surgery right away.
He did great and is feeling like his old self this morning. Well while this was all going on, Shawn and Jack have been quarantined at home, sick. Well I went home to take a quick shower before Hugo's surgery and gave some love to Jack. I immediately thought he is burning up and also not moving his neck. I called the Dr and asked him if it could be contagious. He reassured me it is not. Well during Hugo's surgery Shawn, my parents, me and Jack were all down at the hospital and Jack cried the entire time. We decided to let grandma and g-pa take him to the ER, you know, since we were already here. I figured it was a bad ear infection or something like that and it would be best to get it looked at. Well he does had a bad ear infection and a temp of 103 that they were having a hard time beating, and after a lot of bloodwork and a CT scan it is confirmed that Jack does in fact have the exact same thing as Hugo, in the exact same spot, only worse. He is going to have surgery today and he will be put into the ICU following surgery because his abscess is causing so much swelling it is obstructing his airway.
We are very confident in his Dr., especially after Hugo's success. I am making Shawn go see a Dr. today also just to be safe.
I don't know why or even how this is all happening. I haven't eaten well or slept well since last Wednesday, and my emotions are all over the place I am just really greatful my wonderful MIL has Lacy and my parents and brother have Roxy, who is doing great. Thanks for the prayers. Keep em coming.

This whole thing reminded me of my brother and me. When we were babies we had our adenoids out the same day, had tubes in ears the same day, and when we were teenagers we had our turbinates scraped the same day and the day I had my tonsils out he had his deviated septum fixed. Crazy stuff.

Miracles do happen.

2011-12-18T17:05:00.002-07:00

So glad we felt inspired to take Hugo to the hospital after Urgent Care telling us nothing was wrong. We caught it early and after 4 days of IV antibiotics he is going to be able to go home with oral antibiotics and no surgery. Thanks for the many prayers and well wishes. It's gonna be a Merry Christmas after all.

No fun

2011-12-16T21:48:00.002-07:00

I have a bazillion things to do to get ready for Christmas and I'm missing Lacy, Jack, Roxy and Shawn but there is no where I would rather be than here next to my buddy Hugo

He has been complaining of a sore neck and ear the last couple days so Shawn took him to Urgent Care last night around dinner. I wasn't really happy with what they found (or didn't find I should say) We put him to bed and he was back up around 12:30 not feeling well. Then again at 3, not able to move his neck or head really and he was just burning up, even with IBProufen and Tylenol. So I woke Shawn up to let him know we were on our way to the hospital.

After lots of blood work, tests and a CT Scan they have found out that he has a Retropharyngeal abscess in the back of his throat, behind his right tonsil. The muscles all around the spine and neck are swollen, and his right tonsil is really big! We are super lucky we went to the hospital because we caught it early. We talked to a surgeon today and will meet with him again in the morning. He wants him to get a good 24 hours of medication and then probably surgery tomorrow. We will see what happens in the morning. The dr says it is pretty serious and he will be in the hospital for 5 to 6 days at least. We are hoping and praying for the best. My dad and Shawn gave him a blessing. He is really acting like he is in a lot of pain. Thanks everyone for your thoughts and prayers. We will keep you updated.

Here is a link to what he has, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retropharyngeal_abscess . Don't know how accurate wikepedia is, but its pretty much exactly as the surgeon described it.

3 months already!?

2011-11-30T01:02:00.001-07:00

This Thanksgiving I am especially thankful for such a perfect little angel.

She is my gift.

Happy 3 months pretty girl!

HOARDERS: Purse edition.

2011-11-09T09:49:00.002-07:00

After an embarrassing moment out with a friend, where I couldn't find my wallet, I decided it was time to reach into pandora's box and empty out my purse. This bag is evil... rather than ever looking what was in there, it was just added to. It became a serious problem.

Hi I'm Jenny, and I have a problem.

This is the evil bag that became a black hole for all things purse-like (and some really random stuff too!)

The contents of the bag were as follows: (no joke!)

*Pile of change

*my wallet
*my phone

*3 smaller bags (2 of them empty?)

*4 (Yes 4... why?!) finger nail clippers

*2 chapsticks

*a small tube of Aquaphor

*3 arm&hammer garbage bags (should have filled the bags)

*a bottle of baby lotion

*Random notes, papers, receipts

*2 bags of peanut m&ms

*bag of m&m cookies

*a Down East Basic catalog

*yellow notepad

*2 sets of keys

*Pen

*Watch

*Silly putty

*12V AC/DC adapter (Random!!!)

*6 diapers of varying sizes

*Wipes

*Garage door opener

*Formula

*Bottle

*Vintage compact mirror

*Gum

*Playdoh

*2 burp rags

*Kitty Cat baby pjs

*Pink baby leggings

*3 pairs of socks and 2 random socks with no match

*A ghost

*2 pacifiers

*A ziploc bag of legos

*3 hot wheels cars

*A pile of McDonalds napkins

*and last 8 headbands!!! Why 8?!

My wallet was in a pouch on the inside corner of the bag I never knew exsisted. I'm sure Jack put it there, he is often found rummaging through my bag. He may have put lots of stuff in there.

You don't have to worry about me, though. I cleaned it out, threw a lot away and put things back in their respective places. Its all good and my bag is now much lighter! I know literally have a lot less weight on my shoulders.

p.s. I owe you 2 treats now, Megan. I LOVE YOU!

Where's Alan?

Halloween

2011-11-02T23:30:00.003-07:00

I LOVE HALLOWEEN. This year we went all out. I let the kids pick out their costumes (via pinterest) and for the first time in 5 years, we did a complete homemade Halloween. Yay for us. Shawn and I even got into it! Although the only picture we got was one taken by the lovely Lacy, which in turn means super blurry. I had to post the proof though, for those who were not blessed by our presence sometime this last weekend. We were dressed up as Jane Fonda and Richard Simmons. Roxy was my mini work out partner with boom box and all. And while the 3 of us had a pretty rockin theme going on, I let the other kids do whatever they wanted.

Lacy came into the bedroom one day and found me cruisin around on pinterest. We ended up looking at halloween costumes and she found this one . She said she wanted this, but rather than the face on her shirt, she wanted to make her own mask. So we did... It turned out pretty adorable if you ask me! Plus she was the only owl she saw all weekend, which she loved.

As for the boys... my kids have been watching the Cat in the Hat movie, the one with Mike Meyers, nonstop all month. Hugo knew he wanted to be thing 2 and Jack just went along for the ride. Last minute he changed his mind and wanted to be thing one. We got asked a bazillion what the Chocolate Thunder was about.. just to clarify...

Aren't they precious!? They played the part perfectly too (unfortunately!)

Oh dear

2011-10-26T19:51:00.003-07:00

I love my husband, I adore my kids, but its day's like today I just want to go out (or stay in) with one of my girlfriends and cry over a stupid chick-flick.

Night school is hard. I have to keep reminding myself, dreams take time. I takes a long time to reach the stars but once we get there, I know it will be beautiful!

Lucky me

2011-10-17T16:57:00.001-07:00

Last night as we were laying in bed, I was almost asleep when Shawn rolls over and kisses me. He then says, I don't want you to ever fall asleep with out knowing how much I absolutely love you. He makes me happier than any girl deserves. I sure won with this one!

Roxy's blessing

2011-10-17T16:32:00.003-07:00

Roxy was blessed yesterday by her daddy. It was such a special day with our family. He gave her a beautiful blessing. She is lucky to have such a wonderful, righteous daddy. My mom made her blessing dress from a pillowcase that my Gran Butler hand tatted. It turned out lovely. She also wore these beautiful slippers and sweet pearl bracelets that her aunt Clarissa hand made for her. She is a lucky little girl to have so many people that love her. She is such a blessing with her sweet calm spirit. I adore her!

These are the sweet slippers. All I did was add the button.

This is her beautiful dress.
She looks thrilled, lol.
Just the girls.
Can't expect too great a picture after making the kids sit through church and then try and sit for a picture while all their cousins are over running around. Still, we are pretty cute! (oh and haha, Shawn and Hugo both have their eyes closed. classic.)
Just had to throw this in. Jack is such a character.

Trying to be creative.

2011-10-17T16:25:00.003-07:00

Although we have had a couple cool weeks, mostly we have been dying with this crazy heat. Not being able to spend too much time outside, I have to get creative to try and entertain my boys while Lacy is at school and Roxy is napping. Naptime seems to be the hardest because we are stuck at home and the boys quickly get restless.

What started out as Dr.Seuss reading time, turned into making a winding road with all the books. Gathering all the cars and then having a race!

Boys are so simple and fun. For now at least. Heaven help me when I have two teenage boys a year and a half apart. What will I do?

Random phone pictures

2011-10-17T16:09:00.003-07:00

I feel like I have been running around like crazy, nonstop, for a whole year. Who has the time for anything anymore? I don't update much, so for make-up, here are some super random pictures that came off my phone. Not in any particular order, all unedited.

We are alive!

We always say Roxy has her boxing gloves on or her punchers up. She loves to have her hands right by her face. So cute!
For fall break the kids, my mom and I went to Kingman to visit Chantal and help her unpack a bit. It was crazy having all the kids and no husband but all in all it was a great trip and all the kids did really well. (as did mom!) This was the only picture I took, as we were getting some stretches out at McDonalds after taking a wrong turn and a major de-tour. Always and adventure!
For another fall break day, we went on an adventure that started with lunch in Fountain Hills. We took a picnic to the park, which was by the way, an awesome park and sat down right in time for the fountain to go off. The kids loved it!
Bullseye, a tie and a squirt gun. He is ready!
I snapped this because we were all cracking up that she looked like a superhero getting ready to fly away and save the day!
Last week when it was cool out we spent a lot of time at the park. Roxy even got a turn (her first turn) in the swing.
She doesn't even complain when mommy plays dress up in Wal-Mart. She is so good!
We were sitting out back one cool Sunday night and I looked at Lacy and thought that I have the most gorgeous little girl. She gets stopped EVERYWHERE we go, people telling her how beautiful she is, especially her red hair. I am so lucky, and (horrible to say) jealous of her striking beauty. I thought she looked "glamorous" here. What a character!

1 month already?

2011-09-21T12:33:00.003-07:00

Can you believe my perfect little princess is already a month old? I took this picture yesterday which was actually her one month. She is so perfect. She is calm, sleeps and eats well and puts up with a lot from her brothers and sister without complaining. I just adore her!!!

Jack Jack

2011-09-21T12:08:00.004-07:00

Jack is such a character right now. There are a few things I must write down so I don't forget.

He insists on running everywhere and at the end of every run, he jumps. It is the funniest thing. He doesn't stop with out a little hop.

Speaking of jumping, he also jumps off everything. Like from the top of the table and lands on both feet into a run. I am still amazed he hasn't broken any legs. We gotta keep an eye on this one.

He talks up a storm... my favorite it the way he says Yaacy, Gogo, Rockies (roxy), and muscles. I know, muscles is random, he says it with kind of a nasely voice and it is so cute.

Anytime he says no, he says NO WAY... and his yes is always a YEA SURE. Where do they come up with this stuff?

My most favorite though is when he says "I lub you". If you say it back, he will say it again in his angry voice. If you keep going, he gets raspier and louder I LUBBBBB YOU. He isn't really angry, just silly, but it is hilarious!

He also loves to give kisses, he loves to suprise you and every now and again he will say I LUB YOU and come to give you a kiss and instead you get a wet raspberry right on the lips.

He loves to play fight. Which I don't know why Hugo hasn't learned yet that his younger brother is much stronger than him. Hugo will start with a laughing HEE YAW and after about 5 punches Jack is still going and laughing and Hugo is screaming in pain. What do you expect though Hugo, when you throw the first punch?

Jack is also such a sweetheart. Every owweee can be instantly healed with a kiss. Really, I know kids that love kisses on their owweee's but Jack actually stops his tears or whines when you kiss it better. Plus he always says Thank you.

He can be such a stinker and he makes me crazy... but it is these things that keep me laughing through the day. I know I've missed some... I will have to edit again when I have more time.

Roxy Marie

2011-09-04T23:40:00.005-07:00

Roxy Marie Brown

I have been such a bad blogger lately but seeing as this is my only form of journaling I currently have, I really need to write a few details before they all slip my mind.

We went into the hospital on Friday the 19th at about 1 in the afternoon. I had a plan to be induced at 3 but I wasn't feeling so well. After we got the kids squared away and a yummy lunch, we headed on down. They got me all ready and hooked up pretty fast. We all took our guesses, and away we went.

It took a while before she decided to make her entrance. Once I got my epidural I tried to get some rest but about every 30 minutes some crazy alarms would go off in my room because I guess my blood pressure kept on dropping too low which made her heart rate drop. I had to be given some bp medicine through the iv.. no fun! I was getting so anxious and nervous, it was so scary. I could not rest at all, I kept throwing up and I guess on top of it all, she kept on turning the wrong way. Finally after hours and hours of being a 5, I turned uncomfortably on my left side, with a giant kidney bean looking ball helping out, she turned and bam! I was a ten and ready to push! Only 4 rounds of pushes later, she came out looking sideways. I guess she was still turned to the side, but she came out easily! It was 2:34 in the morning, she weighed 8pounds 7ounces and was 22 inches long.

She is super long and super skinny now. She has actually lost a lot of weight, which is no good. We are having to give her lots of formula to try and fatten her up and we have to go in for regular weight checks now until she gets back up to birth weight. Other than that though, she is a perfect little baby. She sleeps pretty well, is content most of the day. She loves to be held, she doesn't get too bothered by the crazy commotion of her 3 siblings. She is aware, and just such a joy.

Having 4 is still overwhelming, we are still getting used to it all. I have yet to leave the house for more than a couple hours... just give me a couple more weeks.

some random pictures, in a random order... these are all from Shawns and my camera phone... so don't expect professional...

Chantal snapped this of me right before we left.
We thought this sign was funny in front of Jimmy John's. We were hoping for such once we got there (a fast delivery, that is)
Some cuddle time with Lacy at the hospital
A blurry but cute picture of Hugo's first visit.
A random shot of Roxy's first bath. Clearly, she loved it!
The kids all beg, all day long to hold Roxy. Jack loves to have her on his lap this way and he cracks up when she kicks him. So sweet!
She sleeps with her mouth wide open, just like mommy.
Her most recent picture. She makes the cutest faces!

Lacy's first time holding her. She is SO EXCITED to have a sister!!!

Hugo's first day EVER!

2011-08-16T22:33:00.002-07:00

Hugo had his first day of school EVER! He was so excited, he actually cried when we left the "meet the teacher" open house because he wanted to stay. When we got there on his first official day, he ran in so fast he almost forgot to say goodbye. He was adorable, he said he loved his first day!! He asks to go every morning, I think he doesn't like that Lacy gets to go to school every day but he only goes twice a week. It's ok buddy, slow down!His teacher sent out some adorable pictures of the class, this was the only one where he was semi looking at the camera. What a stud!
While I'm on the subject of Hugo, I have to tell you a funny story about him. The other night I was really needing some ice, so I grabbed my buddy and we went for a quick run. On the way home it was pretty silent in the car for a couple minutes when all of the sudden, Hugo burst out,

"HEY MOMMY, YOU READY TO ROCK AND ROLL?"

I laughed first, then said "sure, why not."

"Alright, here is your guitar"

... then I promptly get hit in the back of the head with one of his sandals...

"Now give me some good rock and roll music"

so I turn on the radio and some super popular "pop" song was on, he was disgusted...

"THAT'S NOT ROCK AND ROLL!"

so I flip through the stations until some other song he is pleased with comes on... don't remember what it was, it was on 103.9 though...

"Perfect, now rock out on your guitar"...

He is such a riot. I don't know where he comes up with this stuff. The funniest part to me was that he was so particular about the music. He found the Iron Man theme song on Shawn's ipod one day and it has since then become his favorite song. Black Sabbath???? Who's child are you?He is so hardcore...

So...

2011-06-06T12:08:00.002-07:00

So I cut bangs a few weeks ago. Big change for me, I felt like it. What do you think?

School's out for summer!

2011-06-01T10:03:00.003-07:00

Lacy just finished kindergarten. I can not even begin to tell you how smart she is and how proud of her I am. She did so good, she is reading like crazy and most of all she had a wonderful, beautiful teacher who will be missed. I am excited for summer and all the crazy things we need to get accomplished. Excited for little Roxy to join us, excited to move, excited for 1st grade and another in preschool. Wow, wish us luck. As for now, here are a couple pictures I took on Lacy's last day.

Lacy and Ms. Wilburn

Lacy, Finny, Madison, Charlie and Grace

Doing their final performance. It was so cute. All except for the fact that the riser Lacy was standing on collapsed. Everyone was fine, they ended up putting her section up on the stage. They were all a little shook up, but did great anyway!

Anthony, Lacy, Ms. Wilburn and Roman. So sad to walk away on that last day!

Kristina's reception

2011-06-01T10:00:00.004-07:00

My little sister's best friend got married and had her reception in my parents barn. It was absolutely gorgeous and she was the sweetest, smiley-est bride ever. I love Kris as a sister!!! She had a super fun photo booth and of course when nobody else was there we all went a little crazy! I stole these from her FB page, they were too cute not to share.

Art Masterpiece

2011-04-04T15:12:00.005-07:00

I have been going in to Lacy's classroom every week to volunteer with random things. It is so fun to be around her and all the other Kindergartner's. Every few weeks I get to go in and do an Art Masterpiece with the kids. I did some training at the beginning of the year and so far have absolutely loved it. I saw one of the boys in her class at the park and he says "Hey Mom, thats my art teacher". It was adorable. I am far from an art teacher but it is fun to go in there and talk about art and do fun projects with them. I wish I would have snapped pictures of each project we did but alas, I am still with out a camera and have to rely solely on my I-phone. I snapped a couple of the last two projects. They were both a huge success (we have had one or two flops but the kids still loved it, none the less)

This is the one we did during Dr. Seuss week. We talked about self portraits and looked at some Monet. Then we read The Sneeches and talked about being proud of who you are. I then gave them each the quote, "Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you." From Dr. Seuss. Then I gave them each a skin colored oval and some white ovals for eyes and let them make a self portrait with some tempura cakes and yarn for hair. It was a huge hit, they all loved it, they were all so creative and cute.

This one we did just on Friday. They are having kind of a "Spring Week" talking a lot about flowers and plants and planting. We did our art then we made these flowers with some cut out stems and leaves, then they each had 4-5 different circles they could cut and shape into petals or whatever. The stems and circles were just scrapbook paper and magazine cuttings. We then secured the circles with brads. They were so adorable all hanging on the wall. The little Kinder-garden. (cheesy!)

Jack

2011-03-31T14:18:00.003-07:00

In case there is someone who hasn't heard yet, I am now 20 weeks pregnant. We found out that we are (most likely) having another little girl. Lacy is so excited. But with being pregnant comes lots of fun stuff. Like throwing up, heart burn, being tired no matter how much you rest and everyone's favorite, my roller coaster or emotions and moods. That being said, I have neglected the blog. Which makes me a little sad because there is so much my kids are doing that I need to record. Things I never want to forget. So with no further adieu, a quick look at my kids, as of March 2011.

Jack is all stinker. He is funny and super sweet, but he is often referred to (lovingly) as the pile of stink. (Most of the time, literally, I swear the kid poops more than any other on the planet. Speaking of, give me a minute, I need to go change his diaper)

Ok, much better! He is our curly haired spit-fire. He wakes up every morning and runs strait for the door and says GO! He loves to be outside and he is ALWAYS dirty! Usually when we have to take Lacy to school, a big fit follows when we pull back into the driveway. He does not like to sit around while I get dressed, put my make up on or do my hair. That is NO FUN for him. He, unlike his very content brother, is always on the go. He does not like to sit for a movie no matter what. The only time he will, is if it means he is in Daddy's arms, and not in his bed. Speaking of, there has never been a bigger "Daddy's boy" than Jack. He squeels in excitement everytime he see's Shawn. Grabs on to his legs, gives him big kisses and hugs. In fact, if I ask Jack for a kiss, and Shawn is in the near vicinity, Shawn will get some, and not me.

He is also super sweet. He always says sorry, and when he is not tugging and fighting, he is hugging and kissing. He is really the best of both worlds. (the other world being terrible twos). He is certainly a handful of fun!!!

It's hard getting a good picture of Jack because he refuses to sit still. This is about the best we got. The picture in the back of the bike is my favorite, he is so excited.

Hugo Boy

2011-03-31T14:08:00.005-07:00

Hugo is my sweetheart. He loves everyone. Everyone is his best friend, and if we ever do anything remotely fun, it is the BEST DAY EVER. I am constantly the best mom ever, Shawn the best dad ever, Lacy the best sister ever, and Jack the best brother ever. He is so excited to see everyone, giving them a big hug and always telling you how much he missed you or how happy he is to be here, or you there, etc. He, on lots of days lately, is my saving grace. He gives big hugs and kisses, cleans up well, and (for the most part) listens to what he is supposed to do. He is easy to reason with. With all that being said, he CAN certainly thow his tantrums and always finds a way to NOT sleep, or find his way into our bed. We would put him back if he woke us up, but usually we don't notice until he is already asleep and kicking one of us in the mouth. He is as much of a stinker as he is a sweetheart. He makes everyday fun, thats for sure!

He can't go ANYWHERE without someone commenting on how much he looks like his Daddy. He even tries by dressing in his clothes!

This was just taken this weekend. He's so handsome, and getting SO BIG!

Lacy

2011-03-31T14:02:00.004-07:00

Lacy is a STAR!

She got her Kindergarden pictures back in the fall and I think she could not be cuter if she tried. Her hair looks so short and she looks so innocent and adorable with her closed mouth smile, dimples and all!! Her little dimple right by her left eye is my favorite feature. You can see it when she is being shy, sweet, or belly laughing like she has been lately. A few times in the past month she has laughed so hard that Shawn and I had to join in.

One happened one night, she wanted to play a "big kids" game once the boys went to bed. She picked Quelf to play with just Shawn and I. It is a very silly game, if you have never heard of it. She got a card that said something along the lines of making 5 fart noises. She started making them (with her mouth), giggling the entire time, then on the 5th time she let a real one slip, and it was loud and hilarious. I know one day she will be embarrassed for me telling this story, but she erupted in some very loud and contagious laughter. She could not be calmed either. It was a fun moment that made Shawn and I realize, out little girl is growing up. (Fart humor and all- wish us luck!)

She looks so young!

This is everyone in her class, including her teacher and principal.

This is her on her special birthday dinner. So stinkin cute!

Christmas Eve- Stolworthy Style!

2011-01-24T13:53:00.004-07:00

We had so much fun Christmas Eve, thanks to the Stolworthy's hospitality. We enjoyed pizza and making cookies, a visit from Santa and singing performances from the young girls. It was a perfect evening, followed by going home and spreading reindeer magic food in the front yard and reading some scriptures. Perfection!

(Pictures courtesy of Chaz, thanks!!)

Christmas Eve Eve - Ollerton style

2010-12-24T15:06:00.006-07:00

We had our annual Christmas Eve Eve party and it was as fun as ever. Eating breakfast for dinner, silly skits, embarrassing ourselves, delicious treats, the much anticipated sisters (aunts) singing, and watching a new video of all the aunts and grandpa's favorite Christmas memories. We also got to see Santa, but of course I didn't take a picture!!! I didn't take any pictures, except for the last few minutes I went a little crazy. Well at least I have proof we all had fun!

WARNING: Silly picture overload!

my adorable baby

this one is quite possibly my favorite... Chantal's face is priceless!

Each face is exactly how I felt after the party was over

He thinks we are gross!

She is heeelarrrious!

Charmaine looked uber fabulous all night.

baaahahaha

She's my idol

we have fun

my hero!

Wonder where all my silles come from?

Even Grandpa Grandpa got his sillies on!

This is what he gave me when I said make a funny face...

LOVE THAT MAN!

Christmas Eve Eve Eve - Prescott style!

2010-12-24T14:52:00.006-07:00

We decided to trek the whole family up to Prescott for some Christmas celebration up at Ryan and Krista's. We started off with a trip to the dentist. It was Jacks first time... he was super happy until he realized what was going on. Hugo and Lacy were both perfect.

On Wednesday we spent the day with everyone, eating a fantastic dinner, opening presents, and just having an overall great time. We stayed until the next day, while everyone else left pretty much right after dinner. We are so glad we stayed, we went on a drive to see some fun lights and then, later that night it started to snow! How fun!!! I have never seen such big snowflakes. We woke up the next morning to slushy snow all over the place. The kids found a fun little hill in front and played for hours on the sleds.

Thanks for hosting the party, Ryan and Krista, we had a blast!

My Bunny is 3!

2010-12-20T21:58:00.002-07:00

HUGO BOY BROWN

Hugo turned 3 in November!!! He is getting so big. He is such a smart, witty boy. He cracks us up on a daily basis, and he knows it! We love him so much, it is so fun to see my babies grow up and to see their adorable personalities shine. He is my snuggle bunny, my big helper, my angel, my BOY!! Love you buddy!

Halloween

2010-12-20T21:46:00.003-07:00

I guess I haven't even talked about Halloween. Lacy was Dorothy and she was absolutely perfect!! She loved it and totally played the part. She said she was so excited every time she dressed up and people told her "Hi Dorothy!" or "You are so adorable, Dorothy". She loved that she was recognized. She had a parade during school, and she was surely the cutest girl there :)

The boys took turns being a tiger and a dragon. They weren't too into Halloween this year, which was totally a bummer because I LOVE Halloween.
I even dressed up, as an angel, of course, with my devil sister. We were adorable!!! The picture doesn't capture it, we were having technical difficulties, really, this is the best we got!

I'm a goof, get over it!

Thanksgiving

2010-12-20T21:07:00.005-07:00

Its been so long since I've posted, even I was wondering where the HECK I've been!
Shawn started this semester on his way towards Architecture in school and he has been busy busy, which in turn means I've been busy busy busy! So anyways, now that the semester is over, I have a second to blog a little.

For Thanksgiving this year, all the Browns (minus TJ and Adelia... and you guys were missed) packed up and headed over to Huntington beach.
We had so much fun, and it was a much needed break.
We started off with a little surprise visit to the Schvaneveldts in Laguna Niguel. As far as HB goes, we did the usual, walked down the pier, shopped on main street, went to the freezing cold beach, spent Saturday at the swap meet, Balboa bars and a delicious turkey dinner surrounded by family. I am so grateful for all the love in my life. Happy, very late, Thanksgiving to all.

my very own HB

somebody was too cold to play... he decided to stay snuggled up on the sidelines.

we LOVE you California... we will be back soon!

all tuckered out... We ended up going strait to the hospital when we got home. We thought Jack might have an ear infection or something because he had been so fussy the whole ride home. Turned out he had some major stomach issues. Hopefully they are all resolved now, only time will tell!

2010-11-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

I really want to wim one of these!!

Its your buuurrrrrtthhh-day!

2010-10-14T10:07:00.005-07:00

Okay.. one more birthday I want to add to the list.

Allison has quickly become one of my very best friends! Today is her 19th birthday- HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRL!! We have so much fun together.. even if it is late at night acting crazy while grocery shopping.

Or dancing in the rain - her first time. WHAT?? Thats too bad. But we had oh so much fun the other night when it started pouring, we ran and danced and jumped in the puddles, splashed each other. Shawn loved it too!!
But one of my favorite things and some of the most special times in my home, has been her allowing us to invite the missionaries to have discussions with her (for her second time around). It was spiritual and fun and exciting. I am embarrassed to say that this was the first time that I had a friend of my own have the discussions at my house. My sisters and brother were always great missionaries but I was always shy and whatever the stupid excuse, never invited anyone. Well I finally did and it was so fun! We looked forward to them and miss them now. Allison has taught me so much about myself. She has taught me to be bold and to not be afraid to stand up for what you believe in. She faces so much adversity all the time and she always stands up stronger and braver than the time before. I am so grateful that she was introduced to Shawn and I because we love her so much. She is part of the family now, she always will be! Thank you Allison for being my partner in crime, my listening ear, an awesome babysitter, a best friend- I LOVE YOU!
byeeee

September Birthday!

2010-10-14T09:54:00.003-07:00

I started doing family birthday posts at the beginning of last October. I decided I would do a whole year. So with this last September birthday, I have finally come full circle and end here on little Mr. Elijah's birthday.

Elijah is a little stink pot! He is cuddly and sweet and a total spitfire! I am so happy to have him here in AZ where I can see him all the time. He is a total crack up, walking everywhere with his blankie and 3 paci's. He is adorable with is sweet smile, big adorable blue eyes and curly blonde hair. He is such a cute boy, I LOVE HIM. Happy 2 years little man!

Super-Powers

2010-10-01T10:25:00.002-07:00

Somebody asked me the other day,

"If you could have the powers of any SUPERHERO, who would it be?"

MARY POPPINS! She can fly, talk to animals, transport herself and her friends to magical places, clean up with songs and a snap of her finger. She can carry anything she wishes in her bag, no matter the size. She can fly and float with laughter and even those around her, weather or not they are magical. She is amazing, and she is so classy and beautiful.

Who's superpowers would you like to possess?

A lesson on HONESTY

2010-10-01T09:59:00.003-07:00

A lot to be said about Lacy lately...

On Sunday we went up to Ryan and Krista's to spend time with the family while Sharon and Don were there, but lucky Lacy got to go the day before with Mimi and have a fun sleepover with one of her favorite cousins, Anna. She had so much fun, Mimi and Krista both said she was perfect, and she begged to go back as soon as possible. On Monday night we were unpacking her backpack when we discovered something odd. It was a beautiful purple crown, a princess doll and a wand. All of which were not Lacy's. We asked her about it and at first she said, "These are Anna's, she's letting me borrow them."

Oh really Lacy?

After a little more talking with her, tears starting running down her face, she said her tummy hurt really bad and that she took them with out asking. She was scared to tell Anna or Aunt Krista because she was afraid they would be so mad that she wouldn't be allowed to come back to their house. She just wanted to drive up there and quietly put them back in her room.

While that is a good idea to return them, that is not the lesson we want her to learn. I always remember hearing in primary or YW about the kid that steals from the convenience store and their parent makes them go back and tell the clerk they are sorry and return it. I was a perfect child and never had anything happen like that :) jk... I had my moments.

So anyways, we taught her about repentance and forgiveness and how Heavenly Father would be very happy with her if she could ask Krista or Anna for forgiveness and tell them how sorry she is. If she could call them up and tell them what she did. She had a hard time understanding that Krista would be proud of her and happy with her for telling the truth and that she wouldn't be mad. She was so scared. She kept saying her tummy hurt. We had to teach her a little about guilt and how you feel sad when you do something you know is wrong.

She finally got the courage to call Aunt Krista and she was very brave and sweet when she told her she was sorry and she would keep the toys safe in her backpack and she would return them as soon as she could. She would never do anything like that again. I was so chocked up and teary watching my little 5 year old so scared and crying doing something so scary for her but I know she learned her lesson.

The next day she came home from school and told me about a girl who got a red card in school (thats bad!) She told me that three of the girls left the class when they weren't supposed to, to meet up with their book buddies in the bahroom (I'm getting the story from a 5 year old... so who knows how accurate it is?). She said they asked her to come but her tummy started to hurt so she said she didn't think they were supposed to do that and she would rather stay in the class where they were supposed to be. She said those girls got a red card and she got a green. I was so proud of her. She is such a rock star! I LOVE HER!!!

Thanks Krista for being so sweet to Lacy and for helping me teach her such a valuable life lesson. I LOVE YOU!

Oh Jenny Jenny Jenny

2010-09-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

Well since I put Lacy on blast and I love Shay enough... I will tell you my most embarrassingmoment as of recent that happened at Target. The day after it happened I called Charmaine and told her and she had to pull over because she was laughing so hard (at my expense) she almost crashed her car!!

Well anyways... it was late one night when I needed to do a quick Target run for somethingreally really important. Something like toilet paper or toothpaste. I can't really remember what it was. All I know is that it was past Jack's bedtime and I had him with me and he was a little cranky. So I ran it planning to run quickly out when I spotted the dang cutest little ruffly black tank top right in the front of the store.

And if you know my Target, you walk right into the women's clothing section. It's a smaller Target, so its also right by the dollar spot, the the left of the food court and caddy corner to the check out. Needless to say, I was visible to tooo many people! Well anyways... I had on a tight grey shirt and I thought to my self, I can just try it on real quick in front of this mirror, right on top of this shirt and be quick and done with it.

Well I tried it on (and to make the story worse, it wasn't even cute on!) So I quickly took it off, with Jack whining and clawing at me and I started my way to the pharmacy section... (YES, I didn't notice right away..) When I looked down in my hands and realized that with the tank top, I had REMOVED MY SHIRT!!!! YES.. I was standing in target in my over the shoulder boulder holder... LIKE A FOOL!!!

And you know how when you scream, DON'T LOOK, everyone looks? Well I said, at a far too loud decibel, "OH MY GOODNESS!" And everyone turns and looks at me like I am a total and complete FREAK... what is that crazy lady doing with her shirt off, I try and turn my shirt the right side out, and get it on while running to find an alone space that doesn't seem toexist anywhere in the universe!! And by now my shirt is certainly made of GLUE and will not cooperate and Jack isn't helping. By now the toilet paper doesn't seem so important. Except IT IS... I HAVE to get it!!! Oh my heavens. I am sure the perv security guards if they even exist, enjoyed watching the surveillance tapes on repeat.

Kill me!!

No, not really, I am definitely one to laugh at myself.... after a few months :)

The kind that beavers build

2010-09-27T12:52:00.002-07:00

Oh that Lacy...

The other day we were driving to get an after school treat when she was playing her FAVORITE game, the rhyming game. It hardly ever ends well.... this time it went a little something like this,

" bat, rat, Lacy, bacy, Hugo, bugo, shoe, two, slam, dam... Oh but mommy, its not like a bad word or anything, its the kind that beavers build."

at first I died laughing, then I thought, "What the HECK are the teaching my kid in school!!"

This doesn't even compare to the night before we were at Target, (yes for those of you who know it was the Target and if you ask real nicely and I really love you, I will tell you of my most embarrassing moment which happened at Target) well Lacy was once again playing the rhyming game and she was in the cart and we had a conversation that went like this, starting with her rhyming game

Lacy: itchy, b****y

ME: Oh Lacy don't say that, thats not very nice.

Lacy: What, itchy?

ME: No, the other thing

Lacy: b****y?

ME: YES LACY, don't say it! (I was a little flustered, ok, don't judge!)

Lacy: What does b****y mean?

ME: Lacy stop saying it! Its just not a very nice word, its very bad, and you say it when you are being very mean. (I'm not very good under pressure, OK!)

Anyways, she went on to say it another 7 times and I was blushing as the other moms around me were laughing and giving me funny looks like, "control your potty mouth child!"

Ahhh!! What are we to do with children!!

Mee too

2010-08-28T12:40:00.006-07:00

I also had a birthday in JULY.. on the 23. It was an interesting day spent the entire day cleaning, packing and then driving up to Yosemite. It was worth the drive... but it was still an interesting day. Before we left I got to spend some time with my girls. Lately (besides time with Shawn and the kids) time with my girls is my FAVORITE! They keep me laughing and I just loove them. I really just wanted to blog about my favorite gift I got (the pink shoes and bird print come in a close tied second) BUT... my hottie hubby sold his precious mountain bike and got me a TOWNIE! He loves me so much. I LOVE my bike.. isn't it the cutest thing you have ever ever seen?

Sooo behind on my birthdays.

2010-08-28T11:21:00.006-07:00

I started in October and I wanted to do a whole year around. Well I was pretty on top of it. Then we had a mad computer crash, a few in between and then we finally got a much needed new computer (more on that later). Well I didn't have my calendar (because of no computer) and I really wanted to make sure I didn't leave anyone out.

Now enough excuses, here it is, a much needed family birthday update!

JUNE:

16 - Brian is a big fancy lawyer working at some super-famous law firm now. He is motivated and driven and does so much for his little family. Brian is a wonderful husband to my seeester and a great father to my precious nieces and nephews. He loves to tell stories and he is an endless vault of information. He is sarcastic and hilarious. I LOVE YOU BRIAN, hope you had a wonderful birthday.
27 - Paxton and Bodee share the 27th for their birthday, only a year apart. Paxton is so fun right now. We just spent a week with him at Yosemite and oh how I miss those kids!! He is brave and sweet and has always had a laugh that will have you putty in the palm of his hand. He is fun and I miss him like crazy already! Love you Pax!

Bodee is such a sweet little cuddle bug. He loves to give kisses to his big and younger brother. He is kind and playful. I love him so much and especially love it when he climbs up onto my lap and curls up to give me hugs. He is such a sweet heart, happy birthday Bodee!
JULY:

22 - Braxton is getting so big. He is the big boy over at his house now with 2 younger brothers. Him and Hugo and best buds and Hugo often begs to play with Braxxxon. He is fun and a little spitfire at times, I love Braxton and want to steal him and claim him as my own!!! Jk... but I just love my nieces and nephews so much!
28 - Krista (to my left). Krista is absolutely adorable. She is thoughtful and smart. She is selfless always making sure everyone else is taken care of before herself. She is wild at times, and I love when I get to see that side come out. She is funny and speaks her mind, and I wish I was more like her. She is brave and beautiful from the inside out. I adore her and love her so much. Happy birthday sister!
30 -My dear mamasita also just had a birthday. She is absolutely stunning, this woman. She is superwoman and if you have ever met her would would agree. She can do absolutely anything!!! She has taught me to be strong and to take care of myself. She is handy and a powerhouse! She is also so stinkin hilarious and I know if I ever need a good laugh or a shoulder to cry on (even at 12:30 at night) she will be there to give it to me. I love her and I always say that all things good I have, came from my her! (and maybe a few from the old guy, her hubby). She is perfect, LOVE YOU MOMMY!
AUGUST-

3 - Billy boy had a very very special birthday this year and we are so lucky we got to share it with him. He turned 8 and made the choice to be baptized. I am so proud of him for being such a good example. He is such a sweet caring boy with a sensitive soul just like his Aunt Jenny. He reminds me so much of me when I was younger. Shy at times, super sensitive with a little mischievous streak that will make an appearance when you are watching closely. He is a peacemaker, and a great example. I love you Billy and I am so proud of the sweet, handsome boy you are!
6 - TJ (right in the middle) TJ is another powerhouse in he family. He is a go-getter. He can do anything at all that he sets his mind to. He is inspiring!! We all wish we could take a little of the ambition and success that TJ has in every aspect of his life. He is a wonderful husband and father and that is really what counts the most. He is hilarious and such a tease (I'm pretty sure all the boys LOVE to tease!!) Happy Birthday TJ we love you and miss you guys like crazy!
9 - Katie. Katie is such a cutie. With her blue eyes, sweet dimples and curly blond hair. She has the sweetest voice and dainty delicate walk. She is fun and adorable. She loves to be creative, crafty and adventurous. Sometimes it gets her and the ones she is with into trouble, but later in life it is going to be to her advantage. She will be like TJ, ambitious and successful, I can see it now! She has a sweet heart and really just wants to be cared about. She loves being the center of attention and how could she not, being that cute! Love you girl, happy #6!
20 - Koby is the top left. He is the leader of the pack. He is the oldest Brown grandkid and my oldest nephew. He is a rockstar, that kid. He is insanely smart, he loves to read and do whats right. I watched him a lot when we were camping and what I saw made my heart melt. He stands up for what he believes even if it isn't what the rest of the boys are doing. He cares more about doing good than being popular. At his 10 year old state is is inspiring me to be better. I love you so much Koby, thanks for being YOU!
27 - My one and only blood brother is a 1/4 of a century! He is getting sooo old :) He is also a rockstar kind of guy. Much like Koby he stands up for what he believes in and inspires me on a daily basis to do better. He is kind hearted and cares about everyone is his world and is so aware of everyones needs. He is hilarious and silly and will have you belly laughing within moments of meeting him. He is one of my closest friends and I am grateful so much for everything he is constantly doing for me. He is always serving others, he is so selfless and I love him so much for everything. Happy Birthday OLD MAN!!

Such big kids!!!

2010-08-10T19:49:00.002-07:00

Lacy had so much fun getting ready for her first day of KINDERGARDEN!!! She went with me grocery shopping to pick out her breakfast and lunch for her first day, we did some shopping, and Mimi also took her on a special back-to-school clothes shopping trip. G-Pa and Grandma took her to get a new backpack and gave her some money for some back to school clothes. She was so spoiled and was so excited. She didn't feel great all last week and even woke up a little under the weather, but there was no way she was going to miss it! She had a great first day. She said it was a LOT of fun and a little scary. I can't wait to hear more! Hugo is also getting so big. He is now wearing BIG BOY undies!! He is so proud of them and the first thing in the morning when we were getting Lacy all ready he wanted his picture taken too, I'M a BIG BOY!!

4th of July

2010-08-10T19:48:00.002-07:00

We had a pretty low-key 4th. We had a BBQ over at my parents on Saturday and then went to Pioneer Park right across from the Temple and watched fireworks with the Jones' and popped popcorn in the park and played with glowsticks. It was a lovely cool evening, it was perfect. I didn't get great pictures but Mimi got the kids adorable 4th of July outfits, so I had to share.. Hugo isn't so happy, Jack on the other hand...

Lacy just wants to hurry and get in the pool.
Maybe he just needed his mama!

Getting ready..

2010-07-14T10:28:00.002-07:00

Shawn's maternal family has been going to Yosemite every year for the past... well, forever and we are soo looking forward to going next weekend. Lacy has been talking about it since the minute she got back last year and the same the year before. It is by far the highlight of her year, and will be for us this year as well. We can all hardly wait. We got a new tent this year, seeing as last time we went we took my parents pop-up tent trailer that they no longer have. We are ecstatic to be in a tent this time and to not have to tow that thing again! Well we got the tent and we HAD to try it out before going, just to make sure all the pieces were there. Well the thing is HUGE. We had to clear out both couches in the family room... Enlist some help from three little munchkins...

and voila our whole room was filled from wall to wall and floor to ceiling. The kids of coarse loved it! It was an easy set up, It will fit us all nicely and we are all even more excited then before to get on going. We will report more on the trip when we get back!!!

Here is a better picture of what it actually looks like!! It took up so much room in the room that I couldn't back away far enough to snap a shot!

Lightrail-date

2010-07-14T10:10:00.002-07:00

Chantal, Clarissa, and I and our husbands all went on a super fun, note-worthy date last weekend. We took the lightrail over to Chase field and had dinner up at the TGIFridays and watched the last little bit of the diamondbacks game. We then took the lightrail back to Mill Ave and walked around and ended up hiking A-mountain. It was a little warm but it wasn't bad seeing as it was breezy and 10pm. We had so much fun laughing and playing like kids, without our kids! All except for the one moment on the lightrail when I got lost and thought everyone had left me. (Hence the sad-face).. they were all watching me squirm and thought it was pretty hilarious... punks!

Soccer Camp

2010-07-14T10:05:00.002-07:00

Lacy just finished a 4 week soccer camp that she absolutely loved! We loved it too because it was indoors and kept her nice and busy. On the last day we noticed that she was the only girl in the class. It obviously never seemed to bother her (or us for that matter) seeing as it took so long for us to even see it. She loved it, learning about the game, the different positions, learning how to dribble, pass, and much more. She was so enthusiastic and most of all, she loved waving at us and making sure we were watching her "sweet moves!"

The only picture I snapped was the last day, with my phone, after the game when they were sitting around getting a thank-you and good job from the coach!

Shake it!

2010-07-02T09:18:00.001-07:00

Lacy was playing on the wii doing some hula-hoop and it was just too hysterical not to share. The girl has got some serious moves! She is so funny!! I love this girl!

I wish I could dance...

2010-06-27T13:46:00.003-07:00

Somehow dance gets me..

This dance didn't get the best reviews but it got me- kind of story of my life.

old life

so pretty

new life

I dont know why, But I just loved this week. So many pretty, meaningful dances. The first dance hit close to home, I cried my eyes out! The second dance was pretty and kind of an in-between dance and the last one was just plain sexy! You know they must have spied on Shawn and I for that idea, because we totally do that dance all the time!!!
Whatever, you are weird!

2010-06-25T09:26:00.003-07:00

On Wednesday we had a super-fun boat trip with some awesome friends. The kids absolutely loved it, almost as much as we did! The lake is one of my most FAVORITE things about Arizona. (everything except the fish!!!) This time I took my first stab at wake surfing- it was SOOO FUN! Hugo got a hold of my phone this morning at deleted my video app which deleted all my video proof from the day. I did have this one saved with my pictures so here is one. Its my first attempt so its a little shaky.

I wish I could post the time Shawn was surfing and I hopped on the board with him, or Lacy being handed to Shawn on the surfboard and her freaking out, or Issac getting attacked by Shawn... or Shawn doing some wicked awesome moves on the wakeboard. Anyhow, thats a whole different story (me loosing my videos... boooo hoo)

Thanks so much Randal, Reed and Sara for inviting us to chill on your boat, it was an absolute blast!

Jack's Birthday Cupcakes

2010-06-22T12:02:00.002-07:00

So I'm not a huge fan of cake so I was looking for something new for Jack's birthday. I decided to be a little adventurous and try something new. This is what I came up with and it was super easy and a HUGE hit!

First I got some neapolitan ice cream, let it melt and then I scooped just one or two scoops of it into cupcake liners and put them into the freezer and let them freeze into little ice cream disc's just the right size!Next I baked some rather small cupcakes. I just put the batter in the cupcake liners and didn't fill them as full as I normally would. Some of them were too big, but its okay, I was experimenting!

Then when they were all cool I took them out of the liners, put all new liners in the pan (this took a lot of liners!) and cut all the cupcakes in half. Then I put the bottom half of the cupcakes in the liner, then the little ice cream disc that I had frozen earlier, then the top of the cupcake on top of that. Then, to top it off I just used cool-whip for icing and stuck it back in the freezer to get it a hard again.

I think these may have been the absolute best cupcakes I have ever eaten!! They were absolutely scrumptious!! I just wish that more people were here to enjoy Jack's birthday with us. I think the whole family was out of town! Its okay though, it was a nice low-key day and he got lots of love!! Anyhow, you should try these out, it took a lot of time but they were actually really really easy and I felt my kids were actually eating less sugar. They didn't eat as much cake as usual and no additional ice cream than what was in the cupcake, and the cool whip is a lot better than the frosting would have been. They loved them too, I still have a few in the freezer and Lacy and Hugo beggggg for them every time they see them!

Lots of May Birthdays!!

2010-06-03T15:42:00.004-07:00

First off in May was Chaz's birthday on the 3rd. I love Chaz... I wish she was either a few years older or me a few younger because we lived so close growing up and really didn't get to know each other until we were already sisters. I know we would have been best friends :) Chaz is funny and sweet and so thoughtful. You can always count on her to be the one to remember birthdays or to bring you flowers when you are sick or just call or text to tell you hi or how much she loves you! She is one of those "glue" personalities.. the type of people that keeps everyone else together. I love her so much, happy birthday pretty lady!

Then we had Mom's birthday ON Mother's day. She always gets so jipped when her birthday falls on Mothers day. She deserves 365 days each year to celebrate her aweseomeness! She is the rock of the family. She is strong and brave and I have NEVER met a more Christlike, selfless mother. She has given everything she has to her son's and I could not be more grateful. (If you know me well, I will openly say I have the best marriage of anyone I know... and I mean it!) Shawn is amazing and I know right where he learned it!! Its one of the first things I fell in love with about Shawn was how much he loved his mother. Kathy is also such a hilarious, fun partner in crime. I love having her as a shopping buddy or just to hang out with. I am so lucky to have a mother in law that I love as much as her, but even more so I consider her one of my dearest and closest friends. I love you so much mom.

Randal turned the big 3-0 this year on the 12th. He gave us all the best present and decided to come visit for the summer :) I love Randal. He is a genius!! He must remember everything he has ever read, heard, seen, etc. He is always up for good, intelligent conversation and I just love it. He is sweet to his boys and his wife and for that (among a million other things).. I love him!!
Happy Birthday Randal!

My sweet sweet baby Jack turned 1 on the 29th!! Jack is amazing!! I tell everyone (joking-ly... well sorta) that Jack is my gift from heaven for putting up with my first two. They were hard babies for me and so far... except the sleep thing, Jack is so sweet. He hardly ever cries, unless of course he is hungry then its just the end of the world! I am amazed at how much personality a one year old can have, but it is just exploding out of him. He loves music and loves to dance. He loves to be around people and to entertain. He loves to follow Hugo around and play with him, although to Hugo, its mostly torture. He loves to be thrown around by Lacy... He has the cutest laugh and has his Daddy's adorable dimples. He loves the bath, he loves to be outside, anytime the door is open he runs as fast as he can to the open door and if he misses the chance to get out, he isn't so thrilled. He already loves trucks, and he loves his mommy and daddy. We just adore Jack and every moment we get with him is such a treasure. Happy Birthday Jack Jack!!

Anna Banana turned 4 the day after Jack's birthday. She had given us all a huge scare a couple days before her birthday and so we are all thanking our Heavenly Father for Anna right now, along with all the miracles He is always giving us. Anna is such a spitfire. She is Lacy's little red-head twin cousin. We love Anna so much, we constantly just want to kidnap her and claim her as our own :) jk... but really she is such a sweet heart. She is thoughtful and imaginative and just so darling. We all love you so much Anna. You are the best!

I couldn't do May's birthday's and not include my BFF Elise's birthday on the 4th. We have been friends since middle school. Elise and I can not get together and not laugh like crazy. We have so much fun every time we are together. She has always been there for me and me her. She is the kind of friend you know you will talk to when you are 90 years old! I love her!! Thanks for being my BFF Elise, I LOVE YOU!!! Happy Birthday!

Dinner

2010-05-19T23:26:00.003-07:00

What is it with kids and spaghetti?

(before)

(after)

they all just love it!

Piano

2010-05-11T16:19:00.004-07:00

I have been procrastinating blogging lately. I'm in search of a camera that takes half decent pictures. I got this gorgeous piano from my aunt that I had to do some major renovating to, and my after pictures I took with my camera don't do the piano justice. I'll still post them but I wish I had something better.

This is the original picture my aunt sent me. It was being stored in a garage, it needed a LOT of work, but I could tell immediately I LOVED it and it was a prize! They had also had it recently tuned and it doesn't sound too bad!

This was my before picture I took, it was after I had been sanding it for a while. (You can also notice the walls, after finishing the piano I was inspired to paint my family room walls!)
a close up before

My lovely mother came to help me. We had to take some of the piano apart to clean and paint it. Bet you can't guess who is who?

We're twinsies!

Here are my after pictures. We got it all sanded, cleaned up and painted black.. I also painted my room blue. I still need to hang the picture- I'm excited to change the decorations with each season or holiday. Isn't it a treasure?!

Check it out

2010-04-20T07:53:00.003-07:00

I posted about a very cool giveaway on my boutique blog.

And I put up info about 50, yes 50 bags we will be giving away the morning of the boutique. They are going to be awesome! You must come to the boutique May 1st. Check out the blog, here.

Words can't even describe

2010-04-13T15:04:00.005-07:00

My sister is MY HERO!!

On Saturday Brian Jr., Katie, Lacy and Susan were swimming in the pool while my mom, Chantal and Clarissa were sitting on the porch watching them. Hugo and Bou were playing in the yard watching the kids swim. They told all the kids in the pool that if Hugo or Bou were to get too close to the pool or to fall in to scream like crazy HUGO/BOU ARE IN THE POOL over and over. Well Hugo was close and having a ton of fun taking turns pushing the kids in and they were all laughing like crazy. Well one time he pushed Lacy in and she must have grabbed his hands or shirt and taken him in with her (on accident). They all did their jobs perfectly and screamed like crazy, HUGO FELL IN THE POOL!! Now all three of the adults were watching carefully but none of them saw him fall in so it was so lucky they screamed. Chantal was the farthest from the pool, but with out one single moments hesitation she jumped out of her seat, hoped over the table, ran to the pool, leaped over the spa and jumped in fully dressed to rescue my bobbing 2 year old who does not know how to swim. She said he was holding his breath and when he got out he didn't cough up any water, but even at this very moment I can barely contain my emotions. I am so lucky to have a sister that reacted so fast. I was in the house doing some other work and when Clarissa came in screaming my name and I heard Hugo crying all I could think of was what would I do without that sweet boy! Thank you so much Chantal, words can not even describe my gratefulness to you. I always hope that I would be the one who's pants are on fire, who jumps up out of my seat and rescues the baby... I still hope I am. I know Chantal is. I have always wanted to be like Chantal, I still do, I always will, she is amazing, she is my Hero. I love you, thank you for saving my precious Hugo!

Hug your kids a little longer tonight, kiss them, talk a little sweeter and thank your Heavenly Father for all the blessing and miracles he does give you! (like sisters like Chantal)

This clip reminds me of Chantal. No Hesitation... If you watch Modern Family, this clip is so much funnier. (yes Elise... I'm hooked!)

Happy Birthday!

2010-04-13T14:37:00.002-07:00

April 7th was Adelia's Birthday (second from the right) isn't she gorgeous? She lives in Idaho and we all miss her and her family like crazy! I talked to her on her birthday and it made me miss her and her babies even more. She is talented and always so perfectly put together. To be honest she has always intimidated me with how perfect she is! But she is also so down to earth, she always makes you feel like you are her best friend. She is giving and sweet and I love her to death. I can't wait to see you this summer, I love you! Happy Birthday.

Heather's Birthday was on April 9th. (far right). Heather is hilarious and funny and she totally gets me :) She used to live just a couple doors down and I totally miss it. It was the best thing in the world to have family so close and she really became my best friend. She is helpful and sweet and always gives with out ever asking or expecting anything in return. She has more patience than anyone I know! She is a beautiful, strong, gorgeous woman, friend, wife, mother and example, I love her to death. Happy Birthday girl!

Israel is turning 5 tomorrow. I haven't seen him in over a year I think... I can't even remember. Well I see him all the time via Skype.. but its not the same. They are kinda sorta planning on coming in May/June and I swear if they don't, I might just have a nervous break down. I miss those boys like crazy. Israel is such a witty funny sweet obedient Mama's boy. I love him so much. He is sweet and kind, just look at him! Don't you just want to kiss his face, I do!!! Right now! I wish I could be there to give him a big Birthday hug. I love all my brothers and sisters (blood and in-laws) but mostly when they move my heart breaks because I miss those babies!!!! Come home to me Israel and give me a kiss. I love you little man, Happy Birthday!

On the move

2010-04-06T09:59:00.002-07:00

Guess who is now officially a pro at walking...

Easter

2010-04-05T08:50:00.002-07:00

Since Easter fell on Conferencce weekend this year, my kids wore their new Easter outfits last week. We quickly snapped a few shots of them before running off to church. Aren't they the cutest?

Spring Break

2010-04-05T08:34:00.004-07:00

For spring break we took a much needed trip to Huntington Beach. We stayed in Aunt Sharon's pop up trailer on their drive way and it was HEAVEN! We honestly loved every minute of it. Shawn's mom drove with us and she slept with Jack inside so it was really perfect. Hugo and Lacy both slept perfect!
While we were there we... went to main street and to the pier and happened to go during a fun kite flying festival. We took Lacy and Hugo to Disneyland for the first time. Jack was lucky enough to stay home with all his Aunties and his Mimi. He was really happy about it!! Aunt Lorie works at Disneyland so she got us in. She is amazing! She got Lacy a lanyard with pins on it and Lacy was so excited trading pins all day. She came in with us and went through the castle and a couple rides. Lacy adores all her aunts (as do I). Thanks Aunt Lorie, we LOVE YOU!!Lorie's son Tyler came with us too. It was so nice to have an extra pair of eyes to help out with the kids. He held Hugo a ton, Hugo just loves him! Thanks for coming, you were a great help and you are also so much fun.We got to meet Pluto, Mickey Mouse and Peter Pan, we saw Goofy, Buzz Lightyear and Minnie Mouse from a far as well.We could not go all the way to Cali and not go to the beach. It was FREEEEZING, but we could still not pass it up. We were the only ones on the beach that day and it was gorgeous!

I already can't wait to go back when its a little warmer and lay around on the beach all day soaking in the warm sun and letting the waves beat me up!

ps... we forgot our camera so all of these pictures are taken with Shawn and my i-phones. Not bad, eh?

Brian and Kelly

2010-03-14T21:53:00.004-07:00

My very first nephew turned seven at the beginning of the month. I can remember when he was born I was on the phone with my sister just wishing so badly I could be there with her in Utah. I dumped out all my change and counted every penny (I think it had quite a bit, like $200 or something) I tried so hard to get enough money to fly to go meet him. I cried like a baby the first time I met him, he was so beautiful! Anyways, Brian is so sweet and spunky! He is smart and loves to do what is right. He is a cuddler and can have the whole room laughing. I love him so much and can't believe he is so old!! I love you Brian.. and I KNOW I'm his favorite!!!
Kelly turned 32 on Saturday!! Holy cow, we are getting old! When Shawn was on his mission I always felt like Kelly was my guardian angel looking out for me. Like he always "had my back". I'd see him at parties and I felt like he was just there making sure I was okay. I'm sure that wasn't the case, but I liked seeing him and he always made me feel safe. I love Kelly!! He is such a fun dad, you can just tell that his boys adore him. Heather too, she is just head over heals for him.. he is stubborn and sweet at the same time, I love you Kelly, Happy Birthday!!

Oh the drama...

2010-03-14T21:28:00.004-07:00

Remember me telling you about Lacy and Carson on the first day of Preschool? Well the drama has continued. They are on and off and bff's and boyfriend girlfriend. They have a love/hate relationship, much more like siblings than anything else. They decided they didn't want to get married anymore and then the other day Carson said in the car, "Hey Lacy, maybe we could work it and and get married after all." She said, "ya maybe, we'll see." They are so hilarious. We just found out they are moving to dobson ranch, which is only a couple miles east of us so I'm sure we will still see them but I am sooo sad! They have been the best neighbors and I am sad that Carson isn't going to go to Fuller with Lacy anymore. Kristin has been my visiting teacher since I have moved into the ward and she has been the best one I have ever had. She has done so much for me, more than she'll ever know, and I love her and and am so grateful for her and all she has done. Thanks Kristin!! On Wednesday as Carson was getting out of the car he looks over at Lacy and says, "Bye ya little brat" and with out a moments hesitation and with a little giggle she responds right back at him, "Bye ya little monster!" It was the most adorable and almost horrifying thing I've seen the two of them do. So in love!! Hehe...

oh TV..

2010-03-10T13:16:00.003-07:00

Oh Tv…
Sometimes when I am baking or crafting I take my laptop and watch episodes from some of my favorite TV shows. Well this morning I was watching the season finale of Hero’s that was just a couple weeks ago. It got me thinking…. also about last night’s Lost. Anyways it got me thinking about CHANGE.
In last night’s Lost Ben Linus shows that he is kind-of changing. Also in the last episode when he walks away from Sayid (who is changing for bad, or worse I should say, it seems) and it looks as if Ben is changing for good. Then he chooses not to go with Locke and stay at the beach and also to give Alex the recommendation instead of taking the position as the principal. He seems to be changing for good. And Jack and Richard with the stick of dynomite. Is Jack finally accepting his position as leader of the island? What do you think? Can people that bad (Ben) actually change for good?

Also Hero’s… if you watch Hero’s you should re-watch the last finale, it is SOOO good!! Also if you don’t watch it, you should! I think it is a brilliant under-appreciated show. So the finale…
Claire and Bennet are trapped underground, Tracy saves them.. no surprise there. Then they go to the carnival to try and save everyone from Samuel.
Samuel and Doyle are disgusting. They are those characters that make you just want to scream! That you actually route for them to die (like I was doing watching the Lovely Bones hoping the creep would die!) That is kind of what Syler used to be for me.
The last episode before this one Peter gets into Sylers head and they are stuck there for what they think is years. They grow close and my favorite scene is when they hit the brick wall and it starts to crumble. I absolutely love the symbolism. I have always loved Peter. This also reminded me of an episode years ago where Peter goes into the future and walks into Sylers house and he is baking and greets Peter with a hug and I think calls Peter, “uncle Peter” to a little girl. Anyways… then Syler and him finally break out of their dream and out of the basement and escape. Then they also go to the carnival. I get so excited when he shows up and saves Emma and says “I’m here to save you” then when Doyle says, “Your like me,” Syler says, “No, I’m a hero” I LOVE IT!! I love Syler, I so hope he stays good. He gives me chills!
Hiro and Charlie remind me of Peter Pan and Wendy how he is young and wants a life with her and she has grown old and is happy with her life. (Sorry, sidenote) Hiro then goes and saves all the special people. Its awesome!
At the very end Claire says to her dad, right before telling the world her secret, “You’re right, people don’t change” then it goes to Peter and Syler… he is so changing and it seems so sincere.
The foreshadowing and lines are killing me. Can people change?? I think in reality people can and do change. I think we all go through crap in our lives. I believe strongly in forgiveness and that we can be forgiven and we can truly change. What do you think?

Weird how stupid TV shows can get you thinking so much..

Prepare to be AMAZED...

2010-03-03T14:21:00.005-07:00

Okay... I know I can be crafty sometimes and I don't usually like to brag but this was a project definitely worth bragging about. It wasn't my brains but it was my brawns and I did execute it all on my own. Its a project I did with my sisters Chantal and Clarissa and Chantal's super genius mother-in-law just sat down and designed in 10 mins when Clarissa told her what she wanted to do. She helped us and guided us through every step of the way. She was amazing and with out her there is no way we would have been able to complete such a task... but still... LOOK WHAT I DID!!

step 1: materials and all the right tools
step 2 (or 3 or 4 maybe): after cutting 2x4's in the appropriate size screw them together in squares (it is all actually very exact and if it wasn't just right we would take it apart and do it again!)step 17: take a rest

step 35: screw in pieces for your seat (the master-mind, Jane, below helping fix someones mistake)step 77: put the back on the chair. finally started to look like a chair, with the help of a cute little boy who loves tools! (working is always a lot more fun if the kids are happy!)

step 102: write love notes and positive affirmations on your seats that will never be seen. I believe in good karma and positive attitudes. I believe that my kids will feel the love that was put into these chairs when they read stories or play house, or whatever it is they will do. I LOVE MY MESSAGES.

step 145: (was also step 3, 15, 18, 37 and 88): find more screws! and a cute lady to collect them never hurts!

step 161: wrestle over staple gun

step 162: staple fabric

step 190: upholster foam under fabric

step 250: cardboard, staples fabric, foam - its coming together!

step 300-815: staple, unstaple, upholster, unupholster, attach, unattatch, reattach, stretch, cut, rip, stretch, match, hammer, screw, staple, glue, sweat, etc. etc. etc... and so I have a semi 99% kind of wonky finished product but I could not love it anymore. Lots of love and sweat, a little bit of tears and blood, hardly any money at all (only going to IKEA and letting the kids pick out their own fabric) and voila...
THE FINISHED PRODUCT!

Ladies Night!

2010-02-26T09:19:00.003-07:00

All of Shawn's maternal aunts came into town and a few girl cousins and we all had a blast! I love these ladies like they are my own blood family, like I have known them my whole life. They are hilarious, sweet, caring and oh so much fun to be around. We had a ladies night one night and took the light rail into downtown Phoenix and ate Mi Amigos and did a little window shopping. It was so much fun and as always the visit was far too short!

Nebulizer

2010-02-19T11:03:00.002-07:00

When Hugo was a baby he had RSV and he got a Nebulizer to take home (back when we had really good insurance) It worked like a charm and we never had to admit him to the hospital and since then we have used it a few times for some reoccuring asthma for him. Well Jack has been sounding not so good in his chest lately and the dr reccomended trying the same medicine with the nebulizer on him just to see. For the past week Jack has been sleeping horribly!! He has been waking up in the middle of the night and screaming for an hour or more so last night we tried the breating machine. He loved it! We tried the mask first and he just played with it, then we tried the mouth piece and he just held on and breathed the medicine. He slept much better!! He only woke up once and went back down pretty easily. I dont know if it was a fluke or not, but he looked cute, he was breathing much easier and seemed much happier. What a cutie!

Happy Birthday February

2010-02-13T14:14:00.003-07:00

Happy Birthday to my beautiful sister Charmaine. This one was a doozey :) She is the oldest of us 5 and she is such a perfect oldest sister. She looks out for us all and keeps us in line! (Right now she is sayin "you better recognize!") She is gorgeous on the inside and out. She is absolutely hilarious and can keep us all rolling for hours on end. Its always a party when Charmaine is around, and even when she is not, (seeing as she lives in Iowa and we don't get to see her as much anymore) she can have us laughing via phone, skype or even remembering fun times. I miss her like crazy and she is honestly one of my very best friends. I love you Charmaine!!! And she gave me one of the best presents saying she might come visit this summer. YAY!!!

Happy Birthday Logan and welcome to late 20's... its fun here! Logan is so sweet in his very humorous own quiet way. He has a very interesting sense of humor and I love being around him. He makes Clarissa and Bou so happy and for that I love him more than he knows!

Happy Birthday you two, you deserve everything you could ever want... I LOVE YOU!!

I have never felt so stupid...

2010-02-05T14:18:00.003-07:00

So I don't really know if this is appropriate to blog about, so maybe just don't read it, its my blog :) But if you do choose to read, especially my sisters, moms and girlfriends, tell me what you think.

I have had this lump under my arm since I was pregnant with Hugo about 3 years ago. When I was prego they sent me to get an ultrasound to check it out. They said that they were slightly concerned about it but since I was pregnant they couldn't really do anything about it and to come back after not being pregnant if it gets worse. Well at first it was this hard marble like lump with no feeling really. I only noticed it shaving my arms. I didn't really want to go back though because that place was awful! They had me topless on the table for about an hour with doctors in and out. I think the technician must have been new and didn't know what she was doing, but still it was so embarrassing and I was scared the whole time. Well anyways, the lump grew bigger and softer and I was going to bring it up again to my doctor but I got pregnant again pretty fast so I pushed my concern away and left it alone. I know too sometimes with all the hormones and milk, etc. it probably wasn't a big deal. Well I had Jack and it was still present. So I went it for my yearly exam a couple weeks ago and brought it up to the Dr. He recommended I see a specialist, so I called the specialist who required me to have films from a ultra sound and mammogram first. So I called to get that, which a needed a prescription from my doctor. SERIOUSLY!!!

Anyways... I finally got in to get a mammogram and an ultrasound (different place from before) and they have me fill out a ton of paperwork and listen to a million risks. They have me scared out of my mind now. They call me back have me change into some tissue paper and come and get an ultrasound. The technician takes a zillion pictures and seems to be getting lots of info??? she then says she needs a radiologist to come in and let her know what she can tell me. My heart is racing. So he comes in and is so irritated and quick with her and doesn't care one lick what the crap I have to say. He looks and is asking her "is that what you see, is that what you see, is that what you see?" He then tells me to get up, tells me that some lymph can get swollen when you have a cold and I can get dressed and leave.

I was MORTIFIED! First off, I don't have a cold, or have at all this season. I have had this lump for 3 years!

I had a friend that had a lump and they stuck a needle through her chest to lift up tissue in order to move it to find the lump better which sure enough needed to be removed. That is not what I want (ouch!), but he seemed to not even give a rats you know what. He didn't ask me to move into the "position" where I can feel it, nothing! I wonder if he thought it was my age- I was clearly at least 15 years younger than anyone else in the waiting room. Was it because I am on AHCCCS? I don't know.... In my heart of hearts I don't think I have breast cancer, but how many times have they been this insensitive and not given patients the attention they deserve. I think of Susan dying of colon cancer in her early 20's. She was a super healthy college track athlete. Its scary!!!

So anyways, My mom and Shawn both think I should write a letter. I'm no good, so actually my mom wrote the majority of it, but this is what I have so far....

To whom it may concern.

I have many concerns about my recent visit to your facility. I came on the recommendation of my doctor after I had found a lump under my arm. I was to receive a mammogram and an ultrasound. I did not receive the mammogram. I filled out all the paper work, read the warnings and I signed the form saying that I understood the risks. I did receive the ultrasound. The technician seemed concerned and helpful. I told her that I could only feel the lump in certain positions and that I have had it for approximately 3 years and that I have been observing it grow slowly. The technician allowed me to move into a better position so that she could get a better picture of the area. After she looked for several moments she suggested that she would like the radiologist to look also. She seemed genuinely concerned. A doctor came in, I told him my same concerns, but he did not allow me to change my position to better view the lump and he seemed very unconcerned. He said that lumps are common and that getting them with a cold is of no concern. I told him that I did not have a cold and that I had the lump for several years and that it is changing. He told me that I could leave and not to worry about it.

I have read several self exam instructions and they tell us to check yourself laying down, with arms above the head, in the shower, sitting, standing, every position except standing on one’s head. I have been very concerned about this lump for some time and feel like I was dismissed curtly, possibly because of my age or circumstances. In any case I do not feel that I was given the best care, I left feeling embarrassed and pushed aside.

I am simply still concerned about a lump in my underarm that I feel still needs attention. Thank you for your time.

Anyway.... sorry for the long rant. I usually try to be such a positive uplifting blogger, but hey, this is life! Tell me what you think. Should I bother even sending the letter? Should I change it? Am I over or under reacting?? Tell me honestly.

A perfect day for...

2010-02-04T13:30:00.004-07:00

Lacy and I took advantage of perfect weather and went out back to read while the boys took naps.
Lacy got bored of reading after a while and decided to give her animals a "ROCK CONCERT!"

Hugo woke up and did not want me reading. He wanted me to play, Mommy, play!

Yay! Mommy come play!

Jack was not happy that I was in the cold grass. He was very unsure. He usually gets a nice blanket rolled out for him, like a red carpet. It was perfect today and his little toes needed to feel the crisp, cool grass!
Now he is REALLY mad. I took the ball and lured him too me. I'm coming Mommy, but not happily! (this picture makes me laugh out loud every time! It may be my favorite picture of all time!!)

Hey, this isn't so bad!

Now I am going to scream a bunch of jibberish at you Mommy for making me go through all that trouble when you could have just picked me up and placed me in the grass yourself!
As always, Lacy looking gorgeous doing a dance in the grass!
If you aren't in Arizona, you should be jealous, its heavenly right now. If you are, GO OUTSIDE! This includes me, peace out, I'll be in my back yard!

Lacy turns 5!

2010-02-02T09:46:00.003-07:00

Lacy turned 5 this past weekend!! Holy cow she is so grown up! She had a wonderful week picking out what to eat for dinners all week, having lots of parties and going to the zoo. I let her pick out dinners all week and this is what she picked, pancakes, tomato soup and grilled cheese, sloppy joe's, candy meat (that's what she calls sweet pork) and on her birthday she picked her favorite... RIBS. The doctor asked her what her favorite food was yesterday and he burst into laughter when she said ribs, he said he has heard it all but never heard that one! She is so hilarious and is always making us laugh.
We let her have some friends from preschool and church over on Saturday and they had a blast doing crafts, hiding treasures, playing in the yard and eating treats! She loves to entertain and loves to be the center of attention. We also had family over on Sunday and once again she loved having every ones eyes on her! I took her to the doctor yesterday and told her she had to get some shots. She was crying and carrying on.. I told her I would take her to QT if she would be super brave and she did scream and beg the nurse not to give her any more (she had to get 4)! But overall she did really good. Once we got into the car she said, "Mommy you are so awesome for keeping me healthy!" She is always saying things like this that make being her mom so rewarding and so fun! She is sweet and always aware of the feelings of those around her. We love Lacy and thank Heavenly Father daily for sending her to our family.

I did this last year and thought it was so funny, so once again I did a little get to know you quiz with all Lacy's answers. I didn't edit... so here you go.

If you HAD to change your name, what would you change it to?
Lacy Little Brown
What would be your dream job?
a mom
If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go?
everywhere except for bad peoples houses
Are you mostly a clean or messy person?
clean
You're given 1 million dollars, what do you spend it on?
the zhu zhu pet land, and I’ll answer the rest of it tomorrow
If you could be any animal, what would you be?
a butterfly
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
super flowers, I would shoot flowers out into the air
What is usually your first thought when you wake up?
eat breakfast
What do you usually think about right before falling asleep?
have a drink of water, brush my teeth and give mommy and daddy hugs and kisses
What's your favorite color?
rainbow, every single color
What's your favorite animal?
a dog
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
heaven… (then I said, Lacy you will be 10 in 5 years) then she said, oh yea I’ll be having a party for my 10th birthday
Do you plan on getting married?
yea, yes to Andin
Ninjas or pirates?
ninja, whats a ninja?? and no I don’t want Andin to be a ninja or a pirate I want him to be a dad!

Stormin

2010-01-25T11:11:00.004-07:00

We woke up to quite the surprise out back on Saturday...

The storm was a doozey and it broke off a large branch from our tree!

You can see in this picture below the only thing it really hit on the way down was our picnic table. It only barely cracked the right bench, it will still work just fine. Shawn had moved all the patio furniture out of the way a couple days earlier so the kids could ride the power wheels all around. SO LUCKY!

My hot husband cleaned it all up by himself. He is such a stud! We are just so glad it didn't hit the house. It seriously hit right in the middle of the patio, we didn't even hear it crack or fall- If Krista and the kids hadn't come over to play, who knows how long it would have taken us to notice (probably just later that day, but you get the point!)

Bou

2010-01-25T11:08:00.004-07:00

Happy Birthday princess Bou! We went out to Logan and Clarissa's for Bou's first birthday party. Bou is such a sweet girl. She loves her mama like nothing else. She is so sweet with her big beautiful blue eyes. You could look at her all day! She walks with a cute swagger and has the sweetest little voice. I'm so glad she lives close and that we get to see her as much as we do. I love you Bou, Happy Birthday, from your most favorite aunt!

Cruise 2010 - part 3

2010-01-14T14:46:00.006-07:00

In Cozumel, Mexico we rented a Jeep and explored the whole entire island. It was raining and a little cold, but it was perfect for us. We feel like we got to do so much more and spent so much less money than we would have doing an "exploration" with a guide or whatever. Plus we got be be alone!!

I love the nice cold ocean on a hot day.. but I have never experienced a nice warm ocean on a cold day. The water was a warm 80-85 degrees. We literally got in the ocean to warm up!

We were the only ones in the ocean for as long as we could see, it was like we had our own private beach. Isn't it stunning!!!?? The sand was almost pebble like but so soft!! I am definitely coming back here when the sun is shining and I can spend a whole week in my suit just laying around in THAT sand!

We also couldn't come all the way and not see some ruins. They were pretty amazing how old they were and the walks to them were breath-taking!

The plants were growing EVERYWHERE!

Shawn was a pro with this shot of the day!! It should be in some magazine or something if you ask me!

Cruise 2010 - part 2

2010-01-14T13:58:00.003-07:00

Our night-life was so much fun on the cruise! Dressing up, going to shows, getting in the spa! It was a blast!Our first night was mostly exploring the ship, seeing 3 shows, and delicious food. We had so much fun!
Our second night was the FORMAL night. We got all dressed up and fancy, went to dinner, a show and almost as soon as we got all up, we changed and went exploring. We were all alone on the ship, it felt like, and again... we got in the spa! (my favorite!)

The third night was the day we went to Mexico. It was the most fun day I have had in I can't even remember how long (more to come on that, later) We continued it with one crazy night! We went to a hilarious magic show then to the "Newlywed Game" The cruise director talked about it the past few days and was saying he wanted a true newlywed couple, old pros (50 yrs+ married) and someone in between. You had to sort of "audition"... we made out in the isle of the theatre in front of thousands and they picked us (as the couple in between)! We were on the show and we took home first prize!! We won a painting, a bunch of little nick knacks and a bottle of champagne.... well we gave that to the newlyweds, lol. It was so fun though and the rest of the cruise we felt like celebrities. They re-played the whole thing on the tv's in every ones room on a loop all the next day. People were coming up to us non-stop. It was hilarious, Shawn is such a riot!!

During the newlywed game the night before they put us each in this sound-proof elevator shaft like room while the other answered some questions. Also that night there was 40 mile an hour winds (hello, earthquakes and hurricanes not too far) and the boat was a rockin!! Well needless to say Shawn got pretty sick. As soon as the game was over he went strait to the room and spent the next day all sicky! We finally found out they were giving away free nausea medicine and he got some and felt good enough around dinner time to go eat and get in the spa. It was freezing and they had closed them all, but we had fun, none the less!

Cruise 2010 - part 1

2010-01-13T14:33:00.003-07:00

Shawn is so excited- he's dancing!!

We were sailing on the Navigator of the Seas, we were 20th in line to get on and we found out its the 2nd biggest cruise ship in the world. What?! Crazy!!

This is a picture of part of the mall, one of the theatres, the elevators, a stairway and one of the dining rooms!Our first full day on the cruise was spent at sea. We went full out and took advantage of EVERYTHING (well almost everything)!

We slept in until 11 our first day (9am AZ time) then did tons of sports stuff. We also went to a live show on ice our first day, saw a Vegas-style welcome show, lots of hot-tubbing, some ping-pong and lounging around the pool. We saw a parade down the promenade from the window in our room. I didn't really get a good picture of our room but we had an inside cabin with this huge bay window with a couch in front of it that over looked the inside mall. It was fun to be able to see the two parades from the comfort of our own room. The people watching was fun and only ONCE did Shawn open the curtains at a very in-opportune moment when I came out from the bathroom completely nude getting ready to change into my swim-suit. We were pretty high up, I don't think anyone saw (or at least I keep telling myself so).

Susan, Jaden, Ryan, Grandpa and Daddy

2010-01-12T11:19:00.003-07:00

Happy Birthday...

Susan Cheyanne Jones- she turned 3 on December 2. Susan is such a spitfire. She is so cute and fun and spunky! She reminds me a lot of me :) But the me now, not the me when I was little, she is much braver and funnier than I ever was! She is more like the little girl I always wished I was. She has this adorable raspy voice and I love her to pieces!! Happy Birthday Susan- from your favorite Aunt!!Jaden Rockwell Brown turned 4 on December 27. He is hilarious. Just look at this picture, it says it all. He is Mr. man and one day the ladies are going to be swooning all over him (I'm sure they already are) he is sweet and funny and I miss him like crazy (along with is sweet brother and sister) and I look forward to seeing them again the minute they leave! I love you Jaden, from your favorite Aunt!! lol :)

Ryan is who knows how old... just old :) I think every family has a "glue" ... for the browns, at least as far as siblings go, its Ryan. He is smart and caring and is always aware of what and where everyone is. He is the loving oldest brother and you know you can always count on him. He is genuine and Christ-like but also fun, spontaneous and hilarious! I love being around Ryan, he is always positive and fun to be around!! Happy Birthday Ryan from your favorite sister in law!!!

You know how I feel about Grandpa. He just turned 84... sorry Grandpa, now the world knows :) He is fun and I love him to pieces. I love sitting and chatting with him for as long as he can stand it. He has so much history and charm and he is an absolute delight. I could go on for hours about him, but I'll just say Happy Birthday from your favorite grand-daughter!!
And last for this time around is my sweet Daddy-O. He is the best daddy a girl could ask for. he is genuine and giving, to a fault :) For his birthday he watched my kids for a week and got up every night with them 3 or 4 times in the night and let my mom sleep. This is typical for my dad. He is the most self-less giving person. His best gifts to himself are watching the people he loves be happy and taken care of. He is so sweet and for as long as I can remember he has always been the person that can cheer me up no matter what. We all have our talents, his is being happy and having a positive outlook on life no matter what. I wish so much to be like him. I love you so much daddy, from your favorite spunky daughter!!

**p.s. I know I'm not really every ones favorite, I just like to pretend to make myslef feel better :)

Tomorrow...

2010-01-05T22:55:00.003-07:00

Right about this time tomorrow....

with

Merry Christmas to Shawn!

see you all in a week

December in pictures

2010-01-03T23:20:00.007-07:00

Sorry... trying to play catch-up. I'm a little behind so I'm just going to throw you a few pictures.

December has had some very lovely weather which, for us, meant a lot of back yard play! We finally have lots of grass out back and an awesome swing-set. We also have a gorgeous patio (picture to come later!) that is used all the time!We had some fun setting up the Christmas tree, I wish I would have gotten a picture of the outside of our house at night before taking it all down- with the white lights up and our window open with the tree lit, it was GORGEOUS! *Notice the tree on the table?? It was a genius idea stolen from my mom's charlie brown tree so that Jack would not kill himself pulling the tree on top of himself. It worked perfectly!! Lacy's preschool party. She was so excited-- we dressed up her broken thumb with cute fabric and a silk flower. It was hilarious and she loved showing it off- I wish I would have gotten a picture of that! :)

I spent a lot of time this year home-making Christmas gifts. One because it is more cost efficient and also because I think it is more heart-felt and so much fun! In addition to these adorable clothes-pin dolls, about 50 necklaces, and this apron, I also made my kids these adorable backpacks they absolutely love, some blinged out note-pads (thanks Krista for that idea), and a ton of different treats in the kitchen. Home-made gifts are one of my favorite parts about the holidays. It makes me sooo happy!! This is grandpa, my mom and all her sisters and the famous Christmas eve-eve party. I didn't get any pictures that night (thanks Toni for this one) the night was fantastic, the food divine, the company pleasant and the sister singing worth the year wait. I already can't wait for next year!

Christmas eve with Shawn's family was perfect. Then after our own family time Christmas morning we went back for breakfast and was surprised when Ryan and Krista and their family showed up right when we were about to eat. It was awesome! I seriously was getting so excited I almost cried, it was like something from a Hallmark movie when the walked in and surprised us all -especially since mom had cooked a delicious FEAST and was gracious and just kept cooking, all excited when they arrived.

Christmas day at the Fullers was tons of fun as well. We had fun exploding things and playing with trains. My parents got enough trains for each kid to have their own remote and enough track to cover the whole family room floor. It is now the big hit and Samuel has to compete for the kids attention :) We had a ton of fun at their house, kids and adults alike! They (my parents and Grandpa) spoiled us with tons of food storage and a wheat grinder. We got our pantry all organized, its awesome - I'll blog about that another day!
Santa spoiled our kids with lots of toys too!! An Escalade and lots of games/ toys/ cars and more!!

with all of this, we did not forget the true reason for celebrating. We are so grateful and aware of the Savior in our lives. We are blessed beyond measure and thank our Heavenly Father every day for sending His son and for all He has given us.

I hope you all had a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Happy 2010!!!

Oh Lacy...

2009-12-30T13:48:00.004-07:00

The night before my big boutique all HELL broke loose. Every one kept asking me how it was all coming and in all honesty, it was falling together perfectly. Well at about 5pm the night before I was at my parents when Shawn calls and says, I hope you aren't too busy because I think we need to go to the hospital. He then brings a screaming Lacy to me. After about 30 minutes she finally lets my mom and I look at what seems to be raw hamburger (the end of her left thumb) Its definitely hospital-worthy. We pack her in and head on over. They do the x-rays and every time she lets go of her thumb to take the pictures she gushes blood all over the place. Too much for me to handle. I am being less help than good trying to keep her calm, and in tears and getting queasy. Plus when my dad shows up at the hospital she immediately shows him her thumb and tells me I can leave (way to break a moms heart, pretty girl!) so I go home and Shawn comes to the hospital- he is WAY better at this kind of stuff. She has to get 5 "Frankenstein" stitches as my mom called them and she CRUSHED the tip of her thumb. It was opened in the car door and got crushed in the hinge. It is all black and blue now, no cast or anything like that. We have been to a special pediatric plastic hand surgeon (or something like that) and he said she is going to be just fine as long as she moves it often, keeps it clean and takes all her medicine. It is pretty grouse looking but it will be just fine!

A few pictures from the night at the hospital

in the waiting room

They had to put her in the papoose to give her stitches. My mom said she did just fine- she just told her it was a burrito- just like Uncle Samuel does... so silly! (this was also after they gave her the happy drugs)

Happy GOLDEN Birthday Babe!

2009-12-28T12:36:00.004-07:00

28 ON THE 28TH! So here is 28 reasons why I love my hottie:

1: Today is HIS birthday and he let me sleep in because I was up all night puking. Just one example of how un-selfish and kind hearted he is.

2: He is a worthy priesthood holder and my eternal companion.

3. He loves to turn on music and have dance parties with me and the kids

4. He makes it a point to make the kids and I laugh every single day (and he is very good at it!)

5. His adorable dimples

6. He teaches me something new everyday

7. His adventuresome side

8. He is so accommodating and gets along with everyone

9. He is brave and daring

10. He is sweet and makes me feel like a princess

11. He tells me he loves me every time he sees me or says goodbye

12. He tells me I'm beautiful everyday and I believe that he means it!

13. He is clean and helps so much around the house

14. He loves his family and mine and does all he can to keep peace with everyone

15. He never speaks un-kindly of anyone and keeps me in check!

16. He does cute things like set a "read scriptures" alarm on both our phones.

17. He is such a good saver and is so frugal.

18. He is handsome and looks hot no matter how he is dressed or where he is!!

19. He gives me these cute little winks to let me know he loves me from across the room.

20. He makes me feel sexy and tells me all the time I am the most beautiful woman he knows.

21. He is honestly my best friend!

22. He loves getting in on the girl talk and actually has really good input and is so fun to have at girls night (hope that's not embarrassing babe)... but all the girls love having him there!

23. He cares so much about the well being of others and never wants any ones feelings to be hurt.

24. He gives the best hugs and will hold me in his arms as long as I want!

25. He supports me in all my endeavors no matter how crazy they seem.

26. He keeps me sain and makes me a better mother and woman.

27. He is drop-dead gorgeous... honestly what is a hottie like that doing with a girl like me :)

28. HE'S ALL MINE!

I could tell you a million more- Shawn is so wonderful! I hope you have a fantastic 28 babe, you deserve it! I love you to pieces!

Holy Moses!

2009-12-18T21:23:00.006-07:00

I can't believe how behind I am! I was talking to a friend about it the other day... I am so behind on blogging I don't even know where to start. I have been so busy with my boutique, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and so many million other projects... I have just not had the time to sit down and record my life!!!

First I'll blog about my boutique. It went so surprisingly well. I am so glad we went through with it. I was so happy with it, the vendors were so happy, everyone was happy! We will definitely be doing it again, maybe even as soon as mothers day! Please if you or anyone you know want to be a vendor pass along my e-mail to them, mwahoo@gmail.com or jennylynnbrown@hotmail.com . I have been having so much fun with all of this and so has everyone involved. Thanks for all your help Mommy, Daddy, Chantal, Clarissa, Charmaine, Samuel, Megan, Andrea, Kailin and everyone, everyone else. I LOVE YOU ALL!!
(my baby even stopped by- he was pooped!!)

I was so busy the day of the boutique I forgot all about taking pictures (WHAT, me??) So thank you Clarissa, all of these are ones I stole from her blog :)

also, check out my etsy shop (click here) ... I posted a bunch of my stuff that I didn't sell there. I love etsy!

I am Thankful For....

2009-11-29T23:24:00.002-07:00

Oh I had such a lovely Thanksgiving...

My family got together in the morning. Everyone was there except for Charmaine and her family. I miss them more than I can even tell you!! I so badly want to hug and kiss my sweet nephews. Anyways, we had a lovely time eating on the back porch. Lacy got to go over the day before and peel potatoes and cook all evening with Grandma. She was so excited and talked all week about how excited she was to do it. She had so much fun! After we ate they got out the BB guns and showed the kids how to do target-practice. They had too much fun! Thank goodness nobody got hurt!

Later that afternoon we went over to the Browns for our second, absolutely delightful feast. It is the first time the whole family has been together since before Kelly and Heather have been married. We had so much fun all being together. I miss my sister in laws! My mother in law had an absolutely gorgeous set up on her back patio with an adults and kids table! I loved it! We had family pictures the next day at the asu research park and spent the afternoon having lunch together, shopping, playing, etc. The visit was far too short before TJ and Adelia headed off to Monaco. Overall it was a perfect Thanksgiving.

I must say the absolute best part of my Thanksgiving day was when we were at my parents house going around the table saying what we were thankful for and my dear sweet grandpa said he was thankful that he lived long enough to meet Lacy. Awh... I love you grandpa!!

Boutique Blog

2009-11-23T14:28:00.003-07:00

Alright, its official, the boutique is on! December 12, from 8-5. Everything is coming together so nicely, its almost scary! Come check out the new blog my amazing sister and talented graphic designer, Charmaine put together, {click here} You definitely need to put it on your calendars and come check it out. Its for a great cause and you can get some amazing gifts doing last minute Christmas shopping. You won't want to miss it, and be sure to check the blog often as new stuff is being added daily!

Recent Pictures, so random!!!

2009-11-20T08:46:00.004-07:00

This was from my dobson ranch boutique. Even tho I said it was embarrassing, I'll post pictures anyways!

Jack is just adorable. He is crawling all over the place now. What?! Crawling?! Yes, you heard it! Crawling at 5 months! I just had to show these adorable pictures. And I have to plug these shoes. They are called skidders and they have them at Target. Lacy and Jack both have/had these huge marshmallow feet and they are/were so hard to find shoes for. These are perfect! If you have a baby with huge feet, you need to buy these shoes!
Last night I went with my sisters, my bff and my Laurel Kay and her bro JD to go see a pre-showing of New Moon. We were total nerds, went all out, and absolutely loved it! It was so good, much better than the first.

Elise might as well be my sister :)

Mama's Holiday Wish List

2009-11-18T00:07:00.002-07:00

Mama’s Holiday Wish List MemeTodaysMama and Provo Craft are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What 5 items are on your holiday wish list this year?

1. This cool prize :)

2. A longboard

3. A hot pair of boots

4. Clothes that fit!

5. a TV for my room

2. What is your favorite handmade gift you have received?

Too many to name. The temple picture Samuel etched into a mirror is definitely up there on most special.

3. What handmade gift have you always wanted to tackle?

I would love to learn to crochet better and make a ton of scarf's.

4. What was the best Christmas gift you received as a child?

I remember the year we asked for carpet, that was an especially awesome year!

5. What items are on your kid’s wish list this year?

The wish list I'm making them or the ones they are making themselves? If you asked them Lacy would want dolls and make up and crafts and clothes and on and on and on and hugo would just want trucks. Jack just wants to be held :)

6. What is your favorite holiday food?

I LOVE left over dark cold turkey with salt, its prob my favorite holiday food.

7. What will you be hand-crafting for the holidays?

My answer is the same as Megans (p.s. thanks for introducing me to the giveaway!) My home crafted items are currently a surprise!

8. What is your favorite holiday movie?

The Elf

9. Favorite holiday song?

Oh man I have SO many. I like the classics!

10. Favorite holiday pastime?

Singing and lauging with family. Sitting around in PJs by the fire snuggling with kiddos and the hubby!

To enter to win all these cool prizes below simply answer the questions in this meme, make sure to post links back to TodaysMama.com and Provo Craft (use this link: http://bit.ly/4ikY3c )

Boutique Bust!

2009-11-16T12:29:00.002-07:00

So thanks to everyone who DIDN'T come to my boutique on Saturday. (and a bigger thanks to those who did :) Sounds sarcastic, but I am being totally serious. It was embarrasing. It was raining and muddy all day long and I wasn't happy at all with the location. There was beer tasting right next to me, a scandalous lady in front of me who smoked cigarettes all day, three different kinds of music all being played too loud around me and just the over-all quality of everything being sold. I guess that's just how life is. Sometimes you win sometimes you loose. I didn't make very much money and I'm pretty sure my booth-neighbors didn't sell a single thing.
SOOO... Moral of the story is, if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself. I know it is really close but I am going to do my own boutique Saturday December 12th. I already have a lot of people interested in being vendors. If you or anyone you know is interested, send me an e-mail with a quick explanation of what you sell and maybe some pictures. I'll e-mail you back with an application and voila, it is going to be so easy! I already have a location and credit card machine. Its all coming together perfectly. PLUS, We are going to be supporting "Families Supporting Adoption" (I hope that's right, correct me if I'm wrong, Megan) with some sellers raising money for adoptions. Its going to be amazing. Let me know if your interested in selling and save the date to come shop! You'll be hearing from me again soon.

jennylynnbrown@hotmail.com

I Love Hugo

2009-11-09T10:33:00.003-07:00

My sweet little boy is 2!!! We had such a fun birthday with him yesterday. He was excited all day and kept trying to put two fingers up to say "I'm two!" We had family over for dinner, presents and cake, and Hugo loved every minute of if (Lacy on the other hand, did not like Hugo getting all the attention and gifts, she had a couple melt-downs during the day)

(I LOVE this banner I made!!!)

Hugo is such a sweet boy. He had a rough time coming into this world and had to fight to live those first few moments. I am so glad he is such a trooper and fought through them so he could be in our family everyday. He loves to give hugs and kisses, he loves truck and cars more than anything and he has the absolute sweetest voice. He is strikingly handsome and turns heads wherever he goes. He loves his grandparents (especially great Grandpa), his aunts and uncles and his cousins so much! He loves being home, he is by far my best sleeper. From the time he could walk, he would go strait to bed when it was time and hold his hands up with his blankie until we put him in. He loves being outside and doing anything at all with his Daddy. He is my most reverent at prayer time and he makes my heart melt every time he says, "Mommy, I wove woo" I am so happy he is part of our family, he is the sweetest, cutest little boy I have ever seen. (plus Jack, of course)

Happy Birthday baby boy, Mommy and Daddy love you more than you will ever know! Thanks for being you!!

Boutique

2009-11-06T08:33:00.005-07:00

People keep asking me the specifics on the Boutique I'm doing next week, so here you go.

I don't know if you can enlarge the map, but if so, my booth is E10. I am in the bottom right corner right by the park.

I am so excited, this year it is out doors at the beautiful Dobson Ranch, right by the lake. I'm doing some really cute necklaces and chalkboard / magnet picture frames. Come check it out and get some early Christmas shopping done.

And if you plan on coming - BRING CASH. They are only accepting cash or check this year so dong forget! We are trying to work something out to be able to accept credit, but just in case, bring your mulah!

Check it Out!!

2009-10-29T15:38:00.001-07:00

My mom and her genius hearts blog decided (per the request of my lovely aunt) to make her pictures and little sayings into greeting cards to sell. She started her very own little Etsy shop and I think they turned out absolutely divine. She is so talented and if you have ever thought that I had any shred of talent, I can promise you that it has all come to me from my beautiful mother.

Check it out HERE

FOR KRISTA

2009-10-23T23:44:00.002-07:00

Your kids all pinned me down at the park and went on and on and ON about how much they loved the video of my kids and they had watched it a thousand times. They were so cute and so enthused about it... I thought I would make a couple for your kids to enjoy. Have fun!

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Hope you guys like it!! Have fun, I love you!!

Quick Cali Trip

2009-10-20T12:57:00.003-07:00

Samuel called me Wednesday night and asked if I wanted to go with him on a quick trip to San Diego. Can't pass that up! So Thursday morning I went and got the fluids changed and tires rotated on the car- and we were off!

We...
met my newest, sweet baby nephew Gordon
played with the kiddos
went to a couple parks
stayed up to ridiculous hours laughing and chatting with my fav. brother
went to the swap meet
went thrifting and got some amazing finds!
went to the beach (can't go to Cali and NOT go to the beach- even tho it was freezing, we all LOVED it!)
went to a friends pool and swam/ sat in the hot tub
mid-night Denny's run- kids in bed, babysitter chillin
my first time dumpster diving (didn't actually get in or even touch anything, that's just what we called it)
and as always we all laughed until we cried and had so much fun! I love anytime I get with my siblings and like I've said before I miss them all terribly when they are away.
To top it all off I came home to a beautifully clean house and my husband bought two new gorgeous house plants. Pics of those to come later- I LOVE THEM!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Cameron, Alex and Patrick

2009-10-20T08:20:00.003-07:00

Lots of family birthdays in October.

Cameron turned 5! I can't believe he is growing up so fast. Cameron is sweet and fun. He is a bit of a stinker and I'm sure he keeps Krista on her toes non-stop, but she lovingly refers to Cameron as her "delightful". I can definitely see why. He has the sweetest side to him and I absolutely adore Cameron.

Alex is such a princess. She is strong and beautiful and knows exactly what she wants. She just turned 6! My nieces and nephews are growing up too dang fast. Alex is a friend to everyone and everyone that meets her loves her (and vice versa). I wish she lived closer so we could see her all the time because we all miss her dearly!

Patty is every ones best friend! He just turned 26 and is Shawn's youngest brother. Patrick is one of the most giving, selfless people I've ever known. He is always giving and serving others with out ever expecting anything in return. He is absolutely hilarious and will have us all rolling on the floor laughing hysterically. He is so quick and witty! He is Shawn's best friend and we are so lucky to have him and Chazilyn so close.

Happy Birthday guys, we love you!

I'm going to get in trouble for this!!

2009-10-13T22:21:00.003-07:00

sorry, its super long.

Shawn asked me to take his flash drive last night to my computer (which is hooked up to the printer) and print out this report he had to write for his sociology class. When I pulled it up, the heading at the top of the first page said...

"Attributes I was looking for in my spouse."

Well I got super curious so I read...

1. Beautiful
1.1. long hair
1.2. bright eyes
1.3. nice legs
1.4. tight butt
1.5. in shape
1.6. clean
1.7. fresh

2. Smart
2.1. intelligent
2.2. well spoken
2.3. outgoing

3. Religious-LDS
3.1. High Standards
3.2. Faith in God
3.3. Testimony
3.4. Desire to have a Temple Marriage
3.5. In pursuit of an Eternal Family

4. Adventurous
4.1. Likes to camp (in a tent/ under the stars)
4.2. Likes the lake (swim/ wakeboard)
4.3. Likes to hike
4.4. Likes to mountain bike
4.5. Likes road trips

5. Sense of Humor
5.1. funny to me
5.2. can have fun
5.3. can take a joke
5.4. can give a joke

6. Good Family
6.1. Has a good relationship with parents
6.2. Has a good relationship with siblings

(I love that he threw tight butt in there- such a boy!!)

Then he had a second page that broke down that list once more to the essential attributes (the one's he wouldn't budge on or whatever) then the third page he had to write a short essay on the attributes he wanted compared to what he got.... in me :) He's going to be mad at me for posting this, but its so darn cute and made my week. He makes me so happy... just look at this.

The Comparison
In comparing what I wanted and to what ended up with for my spouse I want to say I got lucky. In reality I believe I got what I was looking and working for. I was raised in a LDS family and was taught from my youth that I marry who I date. So when I started dating at the age of sixteen. I always had that thought in the back of my head. Jenny, my wife, was raised in the same area, from the same type of family background, and the same long term beliefs. That it what I think makes us different from most sixteen year olds. We had a different perspective. I was from the start of my dating career looking for someone I could not only spend a lifetime but an eternity with. With these standards I feel we pretty much got what we both were looking for.
My wife is the love of my life. Jenny brings me joy on so many different levels. She is an absolute perfect ten to me. She had those items of beauty I was looking for when I was dating and still carries them today. She is very smart and determined as it showed with her graduating early from high school and moving straight onto college. She received an associate in massage therapy and is licensed to practice. Jenny could have stopped there as most due with massage therapy but she is looking to further her education and get a bachelors degree.
As for my religious desires, my wife and I share the same beliefs. Because of this I know she was preparing for me as I was preparing for her. This is the main reason I feel my wife met my dating standards. Not because I feel she was the only one for me but because we had been raised in the same area, same type of family background and with the same long term beliefs.
She meets my other needs of adventure, humor and family relationships. Jenny continues to surpass my expectations even now six years into this relationship. With the last statement I made that we had been raised in the same area, same type of family background and the same long term beliefs my wife and I met not only our dating attributes but we also met the essential attributes.

pretty sweet, right!? i've got to say- he's a perfect 10!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SISTERS

2009-10-11T19:24:00.004-07:00

In our family on our birthdays we always go around and say why we love the birthday boy/girl. Its a fun thing and it (to me) if my favorite part of birthdays, more than the presents, cake, etc. So here I go, doing mine publicly, they deserve it!

Happy Birthday Chantal!!!

I love Chantal because..... Chantal is hilarious and we spend all our time laughing when we are together. Mostly at stupid things that nobody else thinks is funny. We have so much fun when we are together, crafting, shopping, cooking, cleaning, playing with our kids, whatever! She inspires me more than most people (well all my sisters and my mom inspire me). She is a wonderful friend, sister, mother, daughter, wife and many more. I am so glad she came into this world 28 years ago- she has always been my best friend and confidant. I LOVE YOU SISTER, Happy Birthday!

and... Happy Birthday Clarissa!!!

I love Clarissa because she is always a ray of sunshine and happiness. She is wiser and smarter way beyond her years. She is amazing at everything she does and inspires me to try new things and to step out of my comfort zone. She is bold and confident and gorgeous and I wish I was more like her. She is also my bestest friend (hey- a girl can have as many as she wants, don't judge me!) I love all the time that we get to spend together and I love that she is close enough that we can do it most anytime we want. She too is a strong and beautiful woman (mother sister etc). I LOVE YOU SISTER, Happy Birthday!

p.s. i did half the siblings.. so I just had to shout out to the other two. i miss Charmaine terribly and I am so jealous that my parents are visiting. I am even jealous that our friends just drove through Iowa. I want to go so bad!!! I love you and think are super fabulous and you are amazing at everything you do. i get to see Samuel more than any of my other siblings. He is one of my most favorite people to talk and chill with. he is hilarious and confident and i know that everyone that knows him absolutely adores him. I'm lucky to have such awesome siblings!

its just so.... BLACK

2009-10-09T00:15:00.004-07:00

So I am super poor and can't really afford the amazing hair stylist right now that I want to go to. So I went to Target, shelled out $6 and bought myself a box dye (shhhh.. dont tell). Elise came over for a lovely day of chillin with my girl and voila, I got me some black hair. Yay!! Now I just gotta save up for the good stuff- I'm countin my pennies- it is sooooo worth it!
p.s. I'm hiding my face in the pics because I just got out of the shower. I shouldnt worry, I should "love myself now" as Ashley would say... I'm workin on it...

Painting!

2009-10-07T17:48:00.002-07:00

One of our most favorite crafts for the kids over at the Browns is covering the whole kitchen table with butcher paper. It keeps the kids happy for hours and hours!! Lacy was dying to craft, and have a friend join her. We called Andin over and the two of them had so much fun painting the whole table. Hugo had fun with stickers and crayons.

I too had fun painting, more on that later!

Devin... and tempura

2009-10-02T10:15:00.004-07:00

So I am totally going to blog about...

This is Devin. He is Andreas husband. He is so funny- he has a mad love for food. I think anytime you ask him what time it is or whenever he looks at a clock, he says "its eleven- time to eat", "its 2 in the morning - time to eat", "its 7 am - time to eat" Its pretty hilarious. Well anyway, a couple Sundays ago they invited us over for lunch and while Andrea and I were out visiting teaching the boys watched all the kids and Devin made some really yummy vegetable tempura. I have been craving it ever since. He told me a little of how he makes it and I also looked around online and came up with some yummy stuff.

I was really proud of myself. I am not good at "experimenting" so this was scary- but it turned out absolutely delicious.

I cut up some fresh veggies. I did ONE potato, ONE zucchini, a handful of baby carrots (I would have used regular carrots but this was all I had) and ONE HALF a sweet onion. I thought I would only do a tiny bit in case it didn't turn out right. Okay it made A TON!!! I'm glad I didn't do the broccoli or mushrooms. We had to throw away some as it is, it doesn't really keep well.

Then I made the tempura batter to go on the veggies.

I first mixed

1 C flour

1 tsp baking powder

a couple pinches toasted sesame seeds (my own addition)

then added a couple eggs and 2 drops sesame oil (also my own add.)

then once that was all mixed I took about a quarter cup water and added it to the mixture until it was a good consistency. Thick enough it would coat the veggies but not too thin it would run off or not coat it enough.

I then heated a bunch of oil in a pan and coated the veggies in the batter and dropped in the oil for only a minute or two. I actually have a deep fryer I just need to buy more oil for it. I think it would work PERFECT in the fryer and be a lot faster.

Anyhow... it made a TON! I set out some dips one of fry sauce and one a mixture of toasted sesame dressing, yoshidas sauce and water. SOOO DELICIOUS.

I also baked some shrimp on skewers and covered them in terriyaki sauce.

I was really proud of my yummy meal.

And nothing tops off a yummy meal like some fresh baked cookies and an ice cold cup of milk.

Was It Worth It??

2009-09-30T12:49:00.004-07:00

Okay I DO pride myself on being quite the bargain shopper. I have always loved cutting cupons and finding deals. But I have never been much of a THRIFTER.

(there is a BIG difference)

Last Saturday I went with Clarissa around town stopping at different Garage Sale's and Goodwills. And the Saturday before that at Goodwill's with Andrea. I have learned to really loved making someone else's trash, my treasure. I found some really cool stuff and have already done some fun things with them. I'll post "after" pictures soon of some stuff I have been working on, so just watch out!All this for UNDER $20!!!

An awesome picnic table, a kitchen table and chair (that is my new crafting table and we think was also once my in-laws table) some cool jars and box's, a couple of frames, a night stand, a cool iron vanity chair, a jewelry box, a mini cake plate, some jewelry, just to name a few.

Plus (more not pictured)... Clarissa got a really cool old vintage camera for Charmaine, a cute shelf- the kind you usually put above a toilet, and I got a HUGE bag of crafting stuff (thread, batting, fabric, glue... and more!)

I'm pretty proud of my thrifting skills- I'm awesome.

P.S. "Was it worth it" is a total rip-off of Charmaines thrifting posts. I thought I would name it the same just to show her how much I love her and how much I want to be like her!!! :) I'm trying!

Field Trip

2009-09-29T09:37:00.002-07:00

Lacy had her first field trip of the year and I think it was overall a success. They went to Jungle Jims. I didn't even know the place still existed. I remember going there for Clarissa's birthday when she was 8 maybe? I don't think I have been there since. Lacy had so much fun riding all the rides. Hugo had fun playin on all the cars, trains, etc. We did have to bail out a little early because the boys starting getting restless but luckily Jamie came to the rescue and took Lacy home for me (so she didn't have to leave early).
I feel so lucky to have such a wonderful network of moms that I know look out for my kids. I love my ward, neighborhood, schools, and especially all the mothers of the kids nearby.
Don't you love that picture of Lacy and Carson in the middle? They are on the mini-roller coaster thing. I think its priceless. Lacy is squealing with joy- Carson looks a little bored. Maybe he is annoyed he has a face full of Lacy's hair :)

Remember Megan?

2009-09-16T23:29:00.003-07:00

Remember this post way back in February? Well Megan and Shane finally got picked and got the sweetest little girl just a month or so ago. Her name is Ruby and she is absolutely precious. (read their story here)

Anyways, they have one little boy already and were just blessed with a girl. Well girls are so dang fun and she came so soon, with little preperation, Megan definitely needed a shower! :) Plus I am in love with throwing showers. Shane's Aunt Claudia was fantastic enough to let us do it at her gorgeous home. I had so much fun making cute things and baking the day before. I am so glad she let me do it, it was so fun! I love Megan and her little Ruby, they are adorable!

a couple really random pictures from the night. It was one of the funnest showers I've done or been to in a long time. Set up and clean up was a breeze, it all looked adorable and there was a good turn out with tons of good conversation. I was in need of a girls night! Plus it is so rewarding doing cute things for such wonderful people!!