The Johnson Family

Can't belive they are taking them so young!

2010-07-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

Yup, they let this in to the Boy Scouts!! I know he is way to young right?!?!

Not only that, but they took him on a over nighter...way to young for that right?!?!

But luckly Cory is one of the 11 year old leaders so he went with him...I was really glad Cory is a Scout leader, it made it not quite so unbearable to let me sweet little baby boy....oh fine....my handsome, nearly 11year old son go! Don't they look handsome in their uniforms?

Hope you all had a fun 4th! I know we did!!

Happy Dads Day!

2010-06-20T15:42:00.000-07:00

To my hot hubby.....your the best!!! I love you!! I am so glad that I got to make you a dad, that you love to wrestle, except at bed time...and that your kids adore you!

My dad....I love you! Thanks for not putting me out on the curb during my teenage years, daddisms (close the door, you raised in a barn, bus leaves in 5 minutes, floor sweepings, arms and legs painted on...I could go on and on!) , not murdering Cory and being the best papa!

My brother, Levi...or as I call him, Gavin Sr! You are an awesome dad, a great uncle and the best brother!!! Thanks for making me an aunt!

And my brother in law Johnny! You rock! Thanks for being a 'puter genius, IMing me at work when I am bored and letting me whine....oh and that adorable little guy...who looks nothing like you, by the way!! Miss you all!

Thank you all for being such good examples to my boys on how to be a great dad, a good man and for just being there!! Now go grill something!

Escape 2010

2010-05-28T17:02:00.000-07:00

Every year we get to go up to Park City curtesoy of Cory's parents. They have a time share at the Marriott MountainSide Resort.

This year we spent three fun and relaxing days. And even though this

is the scene we woke up to Monday morning, it didn't stop the kids from diving into the pool!

Well at least the nice warm hot tubs.

I take this picture every year

of the three kids posed on the rocks. I will try and dig up the first one I took for a little side by side comparison.

What a fun way this was to start off the summer vacations!

Too Cute not to share

2010-05-23T10:37:00.000-07:00

For my mom's upcoming 50th, er, I mean...29th birthday we threw here a suprise party. During the party we had several people roast her (I know we are so MEAN!) Some how I managed to talk Gunner and Gaving in to taking a turn. And here is there "performance" which was pretty funny actually!

What girs do...is not what boys would...

2010-05-04T19:43:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday gave Cory and I the opportunity to have a little fun with the kids. First Taya and I had a Fancy Nancy Tea party at her school. If you have not seen the Fancy Nancy books, they are ADORABLE! Taya loves them, not as much as Junie B Jones, but still quite a bit. So we dressed in our finest, Sparklest outfits

and went and enjoyed a really fun afternoon learning about manners from some "special guests"

eating some delicious crudette

and making bracelets

It was a very fun little party! We even got a sweet little flower planted all fancy in a little teacup.

Then that night the boys got their turn. Cory, Gunner and Gavin went with his brothers, dad and nephew to Super Cross at Rice Eccles stadium. They did not get home until 11:30 by which point the boys were tired and very cold.

So when I asked if it was fun, they only growled at me. But the next morning they had recovered and said even though it rained, then snowed, then hailed it was still pretty cool!

How do I love thee...

2010-04-17T11:03:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Cory and I celebrated out 13 year anniversary. We went to the Anniversary Inn were my awesome brother in law, Johnny, got us a great deal on a room (he is their computer guru). We got the early enough we got to tour all of the rooms available. We ended up staying in the Presidential Suite, mostly because it had a balcony and an awesome view of down town SLC.

We had a great time! It has been so long since we have been anywhere overnight without the kids...so it was nice to have Cory all to myself!

I love you babe! Here's to many, many more!!

Winner, Winner... Chicken Dinner!

2010-04-09T17:18:00.000-07:00

So first off, I have totally been neglecting our family blog. I have entered into a crafting competition that is consuming my life...but its a lot of fun! At least my craft blog looks good!

Now, for all of you who follow the crazy antics of the Tippetts family...here are the winners of our 5th (I think) annual Easter Egg Decorating contest....

Levi's "Opps, I missed the potty!" egg

Gavin's Egg Digger egg

Taya's Pink Bunny Rabbit egg

Bella's Beautiful ballerina egg

Dad's Freaky Skeleton...he carved all that!! egg

Teisha's "We don't want to die, like that guy!"

Paislee's Yummy Yellow egg

Kailia's Pretty Pink egg

Starlee's Team Edward & Jacob eggs

My penguin egg

Unfortunately I did not get a picture of Arbor's Adorable egg...

And in 3rd place

Cory's Octo Mom

In 2nd place
Gunner's Mario and Luigi eggs

And the winner!!!
Rosie's Little Bow Peep...there is an egg in the lamb and in the dress!

We all know, she cheated...but it is pretty cute!

Gavin & I...

2010-03-16T10:07:00.000-07:00

Gavin & I at the play If you Give a Mouse a Cookie.. being presented right now at the Scera. This play was adorable! I wish I could take the other two kids, but unfortunately it is sold out.

While I was at the school I popped into see Taya. She had just sat down to lunch and much to my delight...she was actually eating her vegtables! I actually have done something right as a mom.

You might be a redneck if...

2010-03-14T20:14:00.000-07:00

...you recognize where this picture was taken!

K I just had to get that one dig in...but don't tell Cory!

So Cory is really into Nascarr. I mean...really...yea I still love him. But he actually said, "Hey why don't you post some of my Nascarr Pictures on the blog" and when he actually shows an interest in this blog...I am going to jump on it! (Even if that means boring the rest of you with Nascarr pictures)

He actually had a once in a life time experience. A good friend of ours, Chad, got him pit passes with Karl Edwards, who drives for Aflac/Kellogg's. (Thanks Chad!)

Now normally, our house is a Jimmy Johnson fan through and through...after all the guy works for Lowes, who else would he route for...but he was still really excited to meet Karl Edwards. He got to like "meet" him, like how ya doing, meet him. Then he got feed all his meals, got special box seating, took a "back stage" tour of the neon garage, pit road and all the other areas, that I don't know the name of. This was so funny for him! (Thanks Chad!)

Standing on the back of something, that I am sure I am suppose to know the name of.

Should I be jealous?

Touching a tire!!! OHHHH! Angelic music planning...

Hey good lookin'!

The reason Cory never has the camera on our family trip...this is the one picture of him and Chad together and it took massive editing for it to make it look this decent...seriously, who takes pictures with the sun behind them?

48, Jimmy Johnson's car...who he normally routes for.

Taya..... Baby!

2010-03-10T09:16:00.000-08:00

Taya's Bday was last week. My Little girl turned 7!! It is hard to confront, but I am pretty sure that all birthdays from here on out will be hard for me to confront, cause she is just not my tiny little baby!!!

Star - Taya is the sweetest most well behaved little girl ever! I'm not just saying that because I'm her auntie! I love her sweet face! She's my home girl! I love teaching her new words. Oh and we look just a like!

Cory - I love her little toothless smile. I love it when she runs up to me after work, screams daddy and throws herself into my arms.

Nana - I love that she loves my rolls. I think it is sweet that she sleeps with one of my rolls!! That makes it all worth while making them every Sunday!

Gavin - She's cool most of the time.

Shilo - Taya is my sweet pink baby! I love that she is a girl, I also love that she does not so girl, that she screams at every bug. She completes our family so well.

Gunner - I like having a sister. We play DS together.

Teisha - I remember how cute and little Taya was on my wedding day. And she looked adorable in her little blue sunflower dress.

Lyndsy - I love that Taya and Bella are best buds! She is just so sweet with her.

Johnny - Taya is so sweet and loving. I love how she plays with Arbor. She takes care good care of him and he has so much fun with him.

Levi...your old!

2010-02-23T19:39:00.001-08:00

Yup, turning 30 officially makes you old!! But we still love you....

Mom - When Levi was about 4 or 5 he loved Bert and Ernie. During one episode Bert and Ernie were fishing, they weren't having much luck. So they began to sing out "Here fishy, fishy fishy." And the fish would jump into the boat. Levi and Kevin were fishing at Rob's and weren't having much luck. So Levi began to call out "here Fishy, fishy fishy" waiting and waiting....

Gavin - He taught me how to fart and burp. And he is funny.

Starlee - Probably when he came home from his mission and he wore his flip flops in the shower, couldn't speak English and he kept asking for permission to do everything.

Dad - When he was about 7ish, we were in the locker room at the rec center. He turns to me and whispers "dad, that guys black." I am just trying to keep him quite, so I say "yea, shhh, yea" then he says louder "Dad that guys black!" "shhh, yea, well talk about it later." So then he shouts "Dad, that guys black!!" Luckily when I looked over at the guy, he just had a big grin on his face.

Gunner - He is funny!

Shilo - We are only 13 months apart and that made us really close! We grew up being best friends and doing everything together. When we were in high school, I would spend every Saturday night braiding his and all our friends hair into to teeny tiny braids.

Lyndsy - One of my favorite things about Levi is that he always listens to me and shows me he cares even if he doesn't understand.

Cory - We went to Super Cross and got to meet Karl Malone.

Teisha - The time he hog tied me, put my big toe in my underwear and then put me on the porch.

Taya - He's cool!

I am still waiting on one answer...but wanted to get this up for Levi. Since it has been a week since his bday! Happy Birthday you old man!!!

Itty Bitty Bruins Cheer Camp

2010-02-16T19:30:00.000-08:00

Taya loves to participate in the Itty Bitty Bruins cheer camp every year. This year her cousin, Isabella was old enough to participate with her. The girls had a blast! And were so cute!
Her neighborhood friend, Kalie was also there to play and cheer with.

Don't beat a what?

2010-02-10T19:58:00.001-08:00

This morning I was picking all the random stuff up off the floor. One piece of paper caught my eye. It had Gavins name at the top and the one that caught my attention was the one that says Don't beat a... Gavin had written in "kid".

Having peeked my interest, I abandoned the random stuff clean up and read through the list. Some of them he got right on, like the early bird catches the...worm, and others are pretty funny, Don't bite the hand that...or it might come off. And some are just down right logical, the grass is always greener...in the summer! Now why did I not think of that!?

Funny kids...

2010-02-05T11:30:00.000-08:00

Talking about what Nana would make for my birthday dinner....
Me: "I don't know what to pick for my birthday dinner"
Gavin: "Why don't you just pick bacon, ribs and jello...that's what I would have"

While watching Say Yes to the Dress...
Me: "What do you think of that dress?"
Taya: "Not enough sparkles"
Me: "hmmm..your right"
Taya: "When I get married I am just going to walk in and say I would like to see your most sparkle, most puffy dress please!"

Talking about his extreme dislike of blood, guts and all other related items...
Gunner: "Mom? Do you think all girls want to have babies?"
Me: "Most of them, Why?"
Gunner: I just don't think I could handle watching my wife have a baby. Do I have to be in the room?"
Me: "YES! That's not really fair on her to have to go through that all alone."
Several minutes go by....
Gunner: "Mom?"
Me: "hmmm"
Gunner: "Do you think Rachel wants to have babies?"
Me: "I would think so."
Gunner, mumbling to himself: "I'm going to have to talk to her about that."
Me, thinking in my head: "NOOOOOOO you are to young, you are my baby, you don't like girls, stay small!"

Johnny its your birthday! (sort of)

2010-01-16T19:18:00.000-08:00

I think I should win the worst sister of the year award! This is the second year being late getting Johnny's birthday wish out to him! But, you know what they say...better late than never!
To wish Johnny a happy birthday I have asked everyone a favorite memory or something they love about Johnny and here are the answers:

Dad Says: "I remember fishing at Piute Lake with him...the fetcher caught the biggest fish, it was like 4lbs! He may not catch the most, but he always catches the biggest"

Mom Says: "The first time I met Johnny I made potty pudding....and yet he still married Teisha."

Cory Says: "He saved me from a boring family reunion. He brought his awesome remote control car and let me drive it...and still likes me even though I wrecked it."

Shilo Says: "Johnny has helped me with so many computer things...and is great to vent to"

Levi Says: "He and Teisha came out and stayed really late helping us frame our house, even though it was cold and I am sure they were tired"

Lyndsy Says: "I get to talk nerd with him."

Teisha (His Wife) Says: "He spoils me and is such an awesome daddy. The first time he told me he loved me, I was laying by him and had just fallen asleep. He said you know Teisha I love you, I have never said that to anyone!"

Star Says: "When he was living with us or even know, when he visits, he is willing to take me anywhere or just do anything...he is really generous."

Gunner Says: "He has taught me a lot about computers."

Gavin Says: "He buys me donuts"

Taya Says: "He does lots of stuff on the computer."

Happy (late) Birthday Johnny!

Have I mentioned I am not ready for this....

2010-01-16T17:14:00.000-08:00

Yup, I got kicked out of my family room Thursday night.
Gunner had a friend sleep over, since they had no school. Well I guess he talks about his "girlfriend" quite a bit at school, cause the first thing that his friend wanted to was see Rachel. So off they go to her house. Me and Taya at just settled into watch some girly girl show and in walks Gunner, Gavin, the sleep over friend, Rachel and her friend. Yea, they wanted to hang out and just watch a movie or something. And could you please go up stairs mom!

Yea...I am not ready for this!!

Tales from a 2nd grade class clown...

2010-01-12T15:26:00.000-08:00

So Gavin is too smart for his own good! I have been told by his past three teachers that they have to have extra activities (think word searches, mazes, etc) ready for Gavin. Because he is often the first one done with his assignment but if he does not have something to occupy that smart little brain of his, then he will distract his classmates! Poor teachers, they really should be made saints!

Here are a few examples of his work that I have pulled out of his back pack in the last two weeks. Maybe this will give you an idea of what poor Mrs Bischel is dealing with this year.

Assignment one: draw a volcano and label the various parts of it.

Gavin's completed assignment: Top word "Mane vane" , second word down "Volcano" Bottom left words "alot of lava" top right words, pointing to a stick figure man "running person that isn't safe". When I asked Gavin what this was his answer was "The parts of a volcano" didn't know that a stick figure and a lot of lava were really a scientific part of a volcano!
Assignment two: Read the story of the Emperors new clothes and complete the work sheet.

Question one: How would you feel if you were tricked like the emperor? Gavins answer: I would feel mad and embarrassed. Good answer!
Question two: Would you punish those who tricked you? Why or Why not? Gavin's original answer: I would pee on them! The scribble on the side originally was the teachers answer Really?!? But after I told a few people about this Gavin stole it off my table and changed the answer to I would make them smell my stinky socks and scribbled out the teachers comment Better answer?!?

Assignment three: A spelling/phonics test

Gavin was given a large sheet of paper to write this on. Yet all ten of his words are contained in a area about 3/4 inch by 3/4 of inch. As you can see the teacher has suggested he write a little larger! Her writing is the same size most people write in, if that gives you an idea of how small his writing was!

It is really hard for me to reprimand or suggest that was not a good idea, when I am smirking and giggling the whole time! Well, at least, the assignments are done right?

Christmas Fun

2010-01-05T19:44:00.000-08:00

I have been fairly neglectful of updating this blog and my craft blog, but the holidays really took me away...but it was well worth it, cause we had such a nice time!

It makes a world of difference working for the boss I have. Last year I worked through both holidays and could not take any extra time off. This year my boss gave me as much time as I could afford off. Which was not as much as I wanted, bills still have to be paid ya know?

Christmas Eve was so nice! This is the first year I have had Christmas Eve off and Cory was off too! So we took the kids to see Alvin and the Chipmunks. I think at one point I turned to Cory and said put me out of my misery! But the kids loved it and the look on Tayas face with her sweet grin, made the torture of the lame movie okay. Then we went home and passed out neighbor gifts. We joined my family at sizzler for dinner,

which is our tradition not to make our poor mommy cook twice. When we got home we let the kids open there Christmas PJs then we watched A Christmas story.

Once the kids were in bed we had to wait forever! Taya did not go to sleep until well after 12.

I think the kids got what they were after! Gunner asked for a telescope and Santa must have known Cory and I are to stupid to figure out a basic telescope, cause he got a really nice computer guided one. Now if it would just warm up a bit so that he can use it!

Taya asked for a pink DS, which she got. But she seemed most excited about the a hamster cage connect tunnel that she got. And loves the ZU ZU pet that she got a few days later.

Gavin also asked for a DSI. He loves playing with all the neighbor kids online with it. He was excited by all the beef jerky that he got too!

Cory spoiled me!! He bought a really pretty heart pendant the kids picked out for me. It is done with a several colors of stones so it looks like a rainbow. Love it! and he got me a new skillet, I have needed a new one for a while now!

New years Eve was fun too! We used the gift my parents got us, a gift certificate to Outback. We went with our friends, Chad and Danelle and then hung out at our house playing games. Discovered a good one we had in the closet, sequence, if you have never played it, give it a try, it is so addicting!!

The next day Cory and Gavin went rabbit hunting with his brothers. Gunner, Taya and I went and saw the new Princess movie. It is really cute! Even Gunner seemed to enjoy it.

I hope everyone else had a nice holiday. Now in the words of Soul II Soul "Back to life Back to Realty!"

School Program

2009-12-19T18:45:00.000-08:00

One of the best things about my job is my bosses complete understanding that while I do need a job and work for him that my family and especially my kids come first and he doesn't try to make me feel guilt about it. So when I told him about there upcoming Christmas programs I didn't even have to beg to take the some time off to go!

This also happened to fall on best dress day, so they all were wearing ties and Christmas dresses, it was really cute!

They are officially out of school for the rest of the year. Yea for them...hard on Cory and I.

Hope your Christmas shopping is almost done, cause there are only 6 days left!!

Party!!

2009-12-13T07:00:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was our ward Christmas party...If you have not heard we LOVE our ward. The day we moved in, New Years Eve mind you, we had more neighbors on our door step, ready to help than we had ever even meet in our other wards.

Cory was going through an in active moment at this point. I credit the people in this ward and the spirit in this ward 100% for him coming back. He is the motivator some weeks, that gets us to church, which is a huge switch in our marriage. The weeks that he has to work on Sunday, he definitely gets a little down.

So with that said, I felt this ward was pretty amazing and we have all said we will never be able to leave this ward.

Yesterdays Christmas party was no exception to the incredibleness of this ward. First, it was in morning instead of the evening. We sigined up to bring breakfast casseroles, I made a yummy creme brulee ala Rosie. There were so many, hashbrown ones, quiches, crumbles, yummy! And there was Shirley's bakery cinnamon rolls, these are the next best thing to my moms. OJ, Milk and hot chocolate rounded out the meal.

We had been told "special guests" would be visiting. So we went fully expecting the nativity scene to be wandering around. The last ward we were in did not allow Santa Clause to come. I think that the nativity is beautiful and very spiritual, but also know that for a kid, nothing replaces Santa clause.

Not only did Santa come, but the special guests were Scrounge, The Grinch and Mrs Clause.

Santa was the first to arrive. Gunner really could have cared less, Gavin hide and Taya had a little thrill before she went back to her breakfast. But when the Grinch was announced all three of them were out of their seats and screaming with excitement, "The Grinch! The Grinch!" Taya then jumped out of her chair, ran to the front and threw herself into The Grinch's arms!

I mean this guy was in full Grinch costume. And he had the walk down, the attitude and the anti Christmas spirit and all! I was a little frightened! That's kids for you!

Now Gavin has never been a fan of Santa:
Exhibit A

Just over two years, screaming at the top of his lungs!

Exhibit B

Age 5: This is the next time he would even consider Santa and this is the best picture I have of him with the The Man. But he is fighting tears hear

and Exhibit C

Age 6: Standing as far as he can be from Santa, but still remain in the picture.

So it should have come as no surprise yesterday when he would not get any closer than this

to Santa. And notice how thrilled he is with the idea of sitting on his lap!

So why then when the Grinch took a turn in Santa's chair did I find Gavin like this?

Gunner was a whole nother story. He has figured out Santa. Plus he was sitting by his little "girlfriend" So when I said I want picture of all three of you with Santa, so I can frame it (my tradition I have one from every year since Gunner was a baby, but most of them are just these two

cause of Gavins little phobia) he rolled his eyes and acted all put out about it. But when the time came he really was excited

This is Taya and he friend Jaylynn

and this is her at one of the little craft stations that were set up for the kids

If I were going to give this picture a title I would call it "visions of sugar plums"! The funny part was once she was done, she took all the candy off gave it to me and would only eat the marshmallows and the pretzels. Weird kid, who doesn't like candy or frosting for that matter!

Only a one more week of school for them and they are done for the year. They have a half day on Friday. They are more than a little excited about it! Now if only I were done Christmas shopping.........

Happy Dance!

2009-11-30T20:27:00.001-08:00

I am doing a little dance right now! As you all know I have been trying to lose some weight not only to help with the prediabetes I was recently diagnosed with but also so I can make Cory by me the designer jeans he promised if I get down to my goal weight. So far I have lost 40 lbs. I went back on the diet on Tuesday, but did not expect much with the holiday and pie - really because of the pie. So I was fully prepared for disappointment this morning when I got on the scale - but I have lost 5 more lbs! Bringing the total to 45 lbs.

Cory, I hope you are prepared to work some over time here soon, cause designer jeans ain't cheap!

Too funny not to post..

2009-11-05T16:12:00.000-08:00

Nana: Gavin what do you want for your birthday dinner?
Gavin: Ribs (with no hesitation)
Nana: Okay, what about for dessert?
Gavin: A wedding cake!
Nana: A wedding cake?!?!
Gavin: Yes, with flames on it.
Nana: With flames?!!?
Gavin: Yes and chocolate, lots of chocolate.

Have fun with that mom!

What a weekend!

2009-11-01T19:57:00.000-08:00

I must say I am a little glad it is over! Don't get me wrong...it was a blast...but I am TIRED! And day light savings did not help much.

First I have felt pretty lousy since Thursday. I am not one to complain alot, but this one knocked me out of commission all day Thursday and a good chunk of Friday. At this point I am grateful that I have a very understanding boss. I love my job! (If you think I am sucking up, my boss is not a follower of this blog...so there!)

So setting that a side, the big part of the weekend was Gavin's baptism.

Isn't he a cutie! I am so proud of him!! The man next to him is pretty cute too! This was Saturday afternoon. Yes, Halloween. I told Gavin at least he will always remember what day he was baptized on.

We live in a very child filled neighborhood. I had seven bags of candy. Yea we went through that by 8:00. I also had about 4 dozen little toys, yep, gone. And two boxes of fruit snacks later the kids stopped coming. It was alot of fun. We have never lived in this kind of a neighborhood. We had one neighbor putting on a continuous magic show, another had a witch that was flying around his house and his yard was full of tombstones and he was dressed as Frankenstein rocking out to music. Our bishop had a disco going on is garage. Another neighbor had a full buffet of nachos, hot dogs and hot chocolate. I didn't think our house looked to bad either.

We had a lot of people that would pose their kids on the porch and then take pictures. It was a real kick.

This year Gunner went out trick or treating with his friends. This is the first year he has gone without a adult. I will admit I had a hard time with it! I wanted Cory to trail him, but he said that might look a little scary to some other observant parent. (Probably true) But I was a wreck the whole time he was gone!

Taya and Gavin went with friends and parents from the ward. Yea, we totally pond our kids off on some one else!

What a fun, busy day!

Gavy, it's your birthday!

2009-10-28T15:14:00.000-07:00

Today our sweet middle child turns 8!

So keeping with tradition here are eight things about Gavin!

1. Gavin has had a mind of his own since he was in the womb. He was breech, so the doctors tried to turn him (much more painful and harder than it sounds!) He immediately turned back. I was scheduled for a c section and was told if I went into labor to get to the hospital immediately. The night before the c section, Gavin decided he wanted to come and I went into labor. On the way to the hospital we got pulled over for speeding, but got out of the ticket. The DR stopped the labor and kept me over night, he was delivered the next morning.
2. Gavin looks just like and acts just like his Uncle Levi.
3. Gavin's favorite words (I am not proud to say) include butt, poop and fart.
4. He loves to camp and fish.
5. When he was 3 he developed a deep fear of water. He has not ever really over come it, all though he does a good job suppressing it.
6. Gavins has a double calic at the back of his head, great for faux hawks, not so great for Sunday hair.
7. His middle name is Jason. He was named after his Uncle Jason, who passed away.
8. Gavin is my most social child. He loves to ruff house and play sports.

Gavin will be baptized this Saturday. I am so proud of him!! Happy birthday Gavy!! We love you!!

Gone but Not Forgotten

2009-10-24T19:18:00.000-07:00

Today our sweet little baby would have been 12. It is hard for me to wrap my head around the idea that we would have a 12 year old. October 24th is always a hard day for Cory and I. It always brings up the what ifs and if onlys. It is also on this day that I am most grateful for the knowledge we as an LDS family have of an eternal family. I know that I will get to see Shaylee again and I know that Cory and I will get the chance to raise her! Like it says on her headstone, "Born still to us, but alive to God".

Shaylee we love you! Happy Birthday angel!

Mom, have you seen the Sand Dunes?

2009-10-18T19:16:00.001-07:00

On Friday we went to Cherry Creek, which is near sand mountain with some friends from the neighborhood.
I have not been there since I was pregnant with Gunner. So yea it has been a few years.

I think this was our last camp out of the year though, cause it was cold that night!! We could not get Taya on the four wheeler for nothing! She is a little scared ever since Rob's.

So she took pictures, here is a nice one of her toes...

The next few weeks should be filled with fun! We have Gavin's Birthday coming cup. Along with a school party, a ward party, his birthday party and his baptism. It will be fun!

Hula Hoopin' queen!

2009-10-11T17:53:00.001-07:00

Isn't she cute!?! I can't believe how big big she is, I still think of her as my little baby until I see her doing things like this. Okay the blog is private, hopefully no one has problems getting in. If you hear of any email me at coryshilokids@netzero.com.

Going private...

2009-10-02T16:11:00.000-07:00

In addition to this blog I also do a craft blog. I do the craft blog to share ideas with other people. But I have noticed that the more hits I get to the craft blog, the more hits I get this, our family blog. I am not apposed to family, friends and even people I don't know so well checking out this, the family, blog. But I feel, in order to monitor who is viewing the family blog and our day to day going on, that it needs to become a private blog.
This will only affect the family blog and Gunner's blog (even though he has not blogged in several months, I hope that at some point, he may decide he wants to start blogging again.)
The craft blog will remain public.
If you want to be able to view this(the family)and Gunners blog still, please leave a comment or email me.
I will officially make the switch in one week (October 10th) to private.
If you are on the list of blogs at right, you will automatically be added to the people who can access our family blog.

2009 Family Photos

2009-09-27T19:01:00.001-07:00

You know any post that starts out with this pic is going to be good!

My sister in law Lyndsy, is a very talented photographer. Check out her blog, Pickle Head Photograph

She was sweet enough to take some photos of the family for me.

I have not had a really good shot of the three kids all together in a long time. So I asked her for one of the three kids.

I asked for a family shot for this years Christmas card.

A shot of Taya in both regular clothes...

and in her Tinkerbell outfit...

and a daddys girl shot.

Then I wanted one of Gunner...

and of him in his Scout uniform for a shadow box I am doing with all the mothers pins I have from him....(in the first one he is actually rolling his eyes, but it worked out good!!)

And then Gavin I needed a really good one for his 8th birthday / Baptism...

I needed one with me and the hottie man!!

I saw this same concept and loved it...luck me Lyndsy duplicated it so well!! A version of this may end up on the Christmas card...

I love this in sephia too!

I am not telling which one will end up on the card it is a suprise....okay I really just can't decide!

Thank you Lyndsy! I LOVE these! You did a great job. I know that we did not get any great ones of your family. So tell me when and I would love to come push the button for you...and get some cute ones of you guys!

Finally got me some Rob's Pictures

2009-09-20T19:52:00.000-07:00

...Starlee went all the way to St George to pick them up for me!
Here are some of my favorites

This is Gunner, waiting....waiting...waiting...for a fish.
This is Isabella, my three year old niece that Cory is cradling. Taya wanted nothing to do with shooting the gun, but Bella sure did!

This is the actual lake, Rob's Reservoir. My family has been going there since my great grandfather. We would meet up with all my cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents. I remember hearing the trucks way off in the distance and knowing that one of my cousins was almost there. We went up, rain or shine every year. My sisters were barely a few months old and we still went up! Levi caught the biggest fish on this trip. It was sure pretty with its unusual yellow coloring.

Cory and Gavin on the four wheeler.
Love this! So sweet! Momma and son.
This is the old mill. My dad said it use to be a grain mill along, long time ago. I always remember it as meaning we were almost to the base of the mountain. When I was little, it was not chained or fenced, so we would go in and explore. My grandpa would stop there every year to get himself some fresh watercress. It is now chained, locked and fenced with no trespassing signs posted all over it. Vandals were coming in and tagging it or taking the old barn wood. It sure is pretty and spooky at the same time. Wait until you see what we do with some pictures of this on the craft blog!
My sweet little nephew, Arbor who is almost two. This is actually pretty clean.

Teisha, I love your camera!

A Special place in my heart...

2009-09-11T16:58:00.001-07:00

This post is already on my craft blog but I thought I would add it here, for those who don't see the craft blog.

When strangers ask how many kids I have I give them the simple answer....three. When someone I know a little better asks I give them the real answer....four, three on earth and one waiting for us in heaven.

Gunner is our oldest child..here. He is 10 and a true miracle! That is thanks to his sister, Shaylee. Shaylee was stillborn at 42 weeks. Yes, I was two weeks over due. There was never any indication during the entire pregnancy that anything was wrong. We went into a routine appointment and the DR could not find her heartbeat.

After a long, difficult birth our beautiful baby girl was born. She was perfect in everyway, except she was no longer alive. We later discovered that I get a condition called IUGR - Intrauterine Growth Retardation. Essentially the placenta quits working at about 5 months. If it goes undetected, like in Shaylee's case, then it often results in the baby dying. Nothing can prevent it. But it can be controlled, with severe bed rest and around the clock monitoring of the baby and eventually an early birth. We did not know any of this with Shaylee, but because of her, we knew about it when we were pregnant with Gunner and Taya (both had the same condition). He was premature and had to stay in NICU for several weeks, but today he is healthy happy 10 year old.

After Shaylee was born, the nurses wrapped her in a blanket and we held her for several hours. When the nurses took her body, they gave me the blanket she had been wrapped in. I slept with that blanket for 3 months. And when ever I fell alone or like the pain of losing her is going to eat me up, I take that blanket out and hold it. I always fell closer to her when I do.

This is still tender and hard for me to share (even after 12 years), because the grief always overwhelms me when I get this far into the store, hence the reason strangers get the simple answer. But I felt sharing my store might encourage some of you to join my mom, sister (I hope all of them?) and I in participating in Greyson's Gift I know how much comfort that little blanket can bring to a mom or a dad when they feel like life will never be happy again.

I hope they call me on a mission...

2009-09-11T16:48:00.000-07:00

I was told by Starlee and my mom that I needed to share this picture with you.

This is Gavin's self portrait of himself in 11 years when he goes on a mission.

He brought this home a few months ago from church. He was suppose to draw himself. Apparently Gavin thinks in 11 years he will be a thirty year old Hispanic man!
Note the facial hair, note the all black hair, note the all black suit....I am unsure if he is going to be a missionary or James Bond.

When I told him missionaries couldn't have facial hair, he said that when he goes on his mission the rules will be different or he will make sure they are different! That is Gavin for you always trying to make it his way.

I do love the picture. I have saved it in his scrapbook. I think some day it may make a darling cover to a missionary program!

A Whiny post...

2009-08-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

Be forewarned this is a whiny, self absorbed post! So if you choose to keep reading, it means you agree to deal with it.

Besides we are allowed one whiny post every once in awhile!

In an effort to loss some weight, I consulted a doctor who put me on Phentramine, a appetite suppressant pill. It works great! So far I have lost nearly 30 lbs! The DR also did some blood work to make sure there were no underlying causes. Well, turns out there is an underlying cause. My insulin levels are VERY high. He called them pre-diabetic high. There is a history of type 2 diabetes on both sides of my family, so this a bit scary. The DR says if I can lose all the weight and with some medication (metformin) then the insulin levels should correct themselves. But he says this is what more than likely causes me to gain weight so easily and have a hard time taking it off.

Now to the whiny, self absorbed part. After the phone call set in the "unfairs"! I am not a big soda drinker and not a big sweet eater. So how could I be pre-diabetic!

After some research and visiting with the DR. I realize it is more an issue of carbohydrates. I love my carbohydrates! Pasta, breads, rice...heart them! But with some simple switches to whole wheat pastas and breads, DR says I should feel a lot better and lose weight quicker.

And he says take the Med. So here is the why on posting all this. The meds make me so nauseous and tummy cramps! Plus I am suppose to take them with food, which does not help. Any suggestions on how to tame this from any one out there? And any suggestions on good diet switches?

Cory (and a few others) say I am way to obsessed with it all. But the only reason I am obsessed with it is because I know it is important to get it under control while I am young (shut up I am too!) and before it get out of hand.

Any tips are appreciated!

School Daze

2009-08-21T15:40:00.001-07:00

Hopefully the grocery bill will go down now!

Gunner not feeling so happy about going back to school and waking up so early.

I hope his poor teacher knows what she is in for!!

A little nervous, but putting on a brave face.

The Cool 5th graders.

They are saying "Stop with the pictures!!"

I think she honestly wanted to cry at this point, but she did great!

Seriously, his poor teacher...I hope she doesn't retire after this year.

Happy Late B-day Lyndsy La-rue!!

2009-08-20T17:36:00.000-07:00

I am few days late, but I wanted to tell Lyndsy, my sister in law happy birthday!! I hope you had a great day and I still want to steal your camera!

27 facts and reasons we love you!

1. You are so good with a camera. I love having a photographer in the family.
2. Lyndsy makes the best guacamole ever!!
3. She loves Saturday Night Live and The Office.
4. She is a sweet mommy.
5. Three babies under 3 and she still has patience.
6. She introduced me to digital scrapbooking.
7. I got to do the flowers for her and Levi's wedding.
8. She is a Twilight fan.
9. She is currently serving as a cub scout leader in her ward.
10. She has a ton of brothers, and no sisters.
11. Her dad is Canadian.
12. She is a coupon a holic and proud of it!
13. She designed my families Christmas card last year.
14. We finally got her to see the wisdom from starting in the center of a pan of fudge jumbles.
15. She is a craft junky, just like the rest of us girls.
16. I think her eyes are one of her best features, they are SO pretty!
17. She will drink a glass of water over anything else.
18. She is not much of a carnavore,
19. but she does love dads london broil.
20. Her middle name is Jean
21. If you want to get your butt wooped at Texas Hold 'em, she'll do it for ya!
22. She was a cheerleader in high school
23. She meet Levi when they were still teenagers, but he dosen't remember, and she wasn't impressed.
24. I get to be an aunt to her three beautiful little girls.
25. She can be a bit scary when playing pit.
26. She loves calla lilies.
27. She makes the cutest bows, signs and bow holders.

Happy Birthday Lyndsy! I feel so blessed to have you as a sister! Thanks for all that you do!

A camping we wil go!

2009-08-18T17:22:00.001-07:00

It's august, time for the annual boys trip to Rob's. Only this year us girls decided to crash! But rather than stay up the mountain, we decided to stay at otter Creek Reservoir and just go up the mountain for the day. I was thinking it had been about 3 years since I have been there. But after talking to my BIL, Johnny, I realize it is more like 6 years.
I remember very specifically why I stopped going. I had the two babies, Gunner and Gavin, was expecting Taya. It rained the ENTIRE time we were there. So between the fussy babies, sore back and freezing cold all cramped in a tent. I swore I was done going. But I missed it and Taya kept asking to go, so off we all went.
On the ride there.

This is what Gavin wrote during the car ride.

I took some really great pictures, but I don't have many to show. I knew I needed to take pictures of Levi and Bella for Lyndsy. Plus my own. But when Teisha and Johnny got there, they had the nicest camera. So I pretty much took over there camera, much like a two year old steals the shiniest toy from her playmate! And just took a whole bunch of pictures with their camera. So now I am waiting to get a CD in the mail from Teisha with all the nice pictures! In the meantime, here are a few I took with my camera.

I forgot how beautiful and peaceful it is at Rob's. I really enjoyed just sitting on a chair watching the lake and listening to the trees.

Cory and the boys rode a 4 wheeler up. Levi and Bella rode one up too. Taya was going to ride with them. She got about a 100 yards and then FREAKED out! She hated riding on it. So she ended up riding in the truck with dad, Johnny and I.

Levi caught a couple of really nice sized fish. Dad caught a few. Johnny and Gunner mainly just got teased by the fish. And Cory lost interest in fishing after abut 45 minutes. But the best was Gavin! He got a fish on his line and just like a true fishermen, he reeled it in all by himself! The fish probably was a little on the small side and should have gone back in, but there was no way he was going to put it back!!

Here is Gavin's take on the fishing that he wrote the next morning.

On the way home, dirty and tired, but I know they had fun!

Happy Birthday, Old man Tippetts

2009-08-04T16:31:00.000-07:00

Today is my dads birthday. While he might say this is his 30th and we kids might say it is his 60th it is, in all actually, his 54th.

This is going to be such a looong post (ya know, cause he is so old JK dad, love you!)

Okay here is 54 facts, and reasons why we love dad/papa.

1. The day I was married was so hard for him (he never said that, but I knew). When he walked me down the isle and he "gave" me to Cory he whispered to Cory "I'll get my cows later". Cory had never seen John Lingo before and spent the entire ceremony thinking my dad was off his rocker!

2. Dad loves to fish.
3. His favorite fishing hole is Robs Reservoir (no, I can't tell you where it is at, he would kill me!

4. He would much rather have a cinnamon roll over a brownie.
5. Give him a pie not a cake with candles on it, cause cake aint his thing either!
6. Dad served his mission in Arizona.
7. As a child he was "forced" to vacation in the desert because his dad collected rocks and stuff.
8. When I was little he use to play the accordion, not so much now.
9. He is very talented at wood working.
10. We all hope he will draw our name at Christmas cause he usually makes something for that person.

(This is what I got the year he drew my name, he MADE this!)

11. He loves country music, but not this new Fancy stuff, give him the good old stuff! He introduced me to Dolly Parton, who I still love.
12. I think Levi and Gavin look just like him
13. and I think he looks just like my Grandpa Tippetts.
14. When gunner entered his first pinewood Derby, the first thing he said was "Grandpa will help me do it" not his dad (which was fine with Cory!)

15. He is a sucker for his grandkids.

16. He has 5 granddaughters and 3 grandsons.
17. He has 3 daughters and 1 son.
18. Are your arms and legs painted on!
19. On a free weekend, which are far and few between, he likes to throw his stuff in his 5th wheel (including my mom!) and head out camping.
20. He has 7 siblings.
21. He was raised in Lindon.
22. Ask him about his El Camino.
23. He and mom were married in the Provo temple.
24. He is a champion egg decorator. (seriously, that is an egg!)

25. When I was a teenager, on the 4th of July we would go and get Japanese food.
26. He introduced me to sushi.
27. When I was little, he would take me to get a new dress every year on my birthday.
28. Were you raised in a barn.
29. He prefers wranglers.
30. He owned the same pair of church shoes my entire childhood.
31. All that awesome stuff my mom makes at Halloween, yea those don't start awesome and she tries them out on him.
32. He currently works at Lowes but has also worked at Home Depot and Home Base.
33. Dad will eat pretty much anything.
34. When he is in charge of dinner, watch out...he doesn't use recipes and if it is in the fridge, then in it goes.
35. He has a soft spot for Zoe, his grandpuppy who lives with him, but he tries to hide it.
36. He has a big scar on his knee, from knee surgery.
37. When I was about 5 I found a picture of him as a teen on the trampoline doing a back flip, I thought that was the coolest picture!
38. He would take Levi and I to the park every March/April for kite flying. I don't know how he does it, put he can get a kite so far in the air almost like magic!

39. His marriage to mom inspires me.
40. Cory claims him as his dad and most people at his work thought the really were father and son not son in law.
41. Ask him to tell you the Timbuktu joke.
42. He is an amazing carver not just of wood but watermelons also.
43. Don't ever let him make the kool aid.
44. He loves Oatmeal Raisin cookies, which he passed on to Gunner.
45. He is the most easy going guy, unless you are a teenager caught sneaking out.
46. When I was little he worked for a counter top/cabinet place and he always smelled like saw dust, to this day the smell of saw dust makes me miss my dad!
47. He built the house that he and my mom currently live in.
48. He taught me how to garden and about plants.
49. He loves Columbine, I think it reminds him of Robs.
50. About 5 years ago my car broke down on the side of the freeway. It was 1 in the morning. He was who I called to come get me. And he did with out one complaint!
51. He has the best sense of humor.
52. He very rarely gets sick.
53. One of my earliest memories is of a Strawberry shortcake piggy bank that he made for me, I loved that thing!
54. He looks great in a flannel shirt!

Happy Birthday Dad! Thanks for always being there for us, putting up with our stupid stunts and making us laugh! We hope you know how much we love and appreciate you.

What's for Dinner?

2009-08-01T10:48:00.000-07:00

My answer to that on Tuesday was "Ask Gunner"

For scouts this week he was suppose to make a menu for the week, shop for the needed ingredients and prepare a meal.

On a normal week we each pick a meal for during the week, then Saturday is either out to eat or something easy like pancakes and Sunday we usually eat at my parents house.

Then I put it on the cute menu board I made with my craft group
and it is a quick reference to what to get out of the freezer and whats for dinner. (Seriously, they never ask any more, they know to just look at the board)

So when Gunner got to plan the meals for the week,(on the menu board is what he picked) it really was a treat and Gavin was mad and said when he became a scout he gets to pick all the meals too!

Then on Tuesday he cooked for us all. Here is what he made.

Chicken Patty sandwiches, baked beans (one of his favorites)and kool aid.

I was not allowed in the kitchen. He very much wanted to do it all on his own! He even dished everyones up for them.

I have to say this meal is not one I am particularly fond of, but that night I ate it all!

Sleeping Beauty

2009-07-31T14:58:00.000-07:00

Last night when I went to check on the kids before I went to bed, this is what I found.

I love her sweet little hand here!

Isn't she sweet, such a little momma. The doll is Baby Marker. That doll has been almost as well loved as Buggy, her beloved blanket. That was the first doll that she got. Santa gave it to her for her first Christmas. Not long after that Taya decided to do the babies "make up" with some markers. Hence the name Baby Marker. To be honest the thing is a little to "chucky doll" for me, but she loves it as you can see from these pics.

On another note I have finally got a job. The hours are perfect. 9 am until 3 pm. So I can drop the kids off to school and then I can pick them up! Which is exactly what I was wanting to do. I am mostly acting as a property manager for my bosses various apartments. But I will also be helping him with property appraisals, which he also does. So far it is great!

Two is twice as fun!

2009-07-29T15:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my adorable one year old twin nieces! I honestly, can't believe that they are one, the year went to fast. Here are a few of my fav pics...
91.5% sure that this Kailia.

Paislee looking pretty in pink!

Aren't they cute!

Happy Birthday Paislee and Kailiah! We love you!!!

2009-07-25T15:20:00.000-07:00

I love this blinkie

It reminds me of when Gunner was little. I use to read him this book every night and be so sad to think that he could be anything other than my little baby...and now he is at least the third or forth faze of that book....

The past week

2009-07-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Yea, it really was all about Gunner! His Birthday was Tuesday, went mini golfing to celebrate, he got his Bear on Wednesday, had a friend party at the bowling alley on Friday, then he went to day camp on Saturday and birthday dinner of fry night at Nana's house on Sunday. Talk about spoiled! I think his D (that's what he got from us and Nana and papa) was attached to his hand the whole time! Over all I think he had a fun birthday week.

Crafty Blog!

2009-07-15T14:50:00.000-07:00

I have been inspired by my mom and all the other cute craft blogs that I frequenlty haunt and have decided to start my own! I would love feedback and opionons on what you think! The address is http://craftyfuntime.blogspot.com/ Please visit and let me know!! Thanks!

Happy Birthday Gunner!

2009-07-14T13:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Gunner! Today my sweet little boy turns ten. I must say I am not cool with this whole getting older and becoming independent thing my kids are going through. Really meaning leaving there mommy!

Here is your list Gunner, of ten things that are great about you!

1. You healed our hearts after Shaylee died.
I have to add a sweet story here. I keep a picture of Shaylee on my dresser in my room. One day Gunner went in there to get something out of my room and his friend, Rachel, went in the room with him. She saw the picture and asked Gunner who it was. He told Her "That is my big sister Shaylee, she died." And Rachel says how sad that is. Gunner's response to her "It's okay, I came and healed every ones hearts and made them happy again." He said it so matter of factly, like it was common knowledge. I have told him this from the beginning and I am so grateful that he realizes it!
2. You are so smart!
3. You are a great big brother to Taya and Gavin.
4. I loved your snoppy dance when you were little.
5. Gunner loves tater tot casserole (Why I don't know) and usually picks it as his meal.
6. Gunner loves video games.
7. Gunner can run a computer better than me and has been able to since he was 3.
8. Gunner's favorite color is yellow.
9. He has a very sweet testimony of Heavenly Father and will make a great missionary.
10. Gunner is very curious. He has yet to grow out of the Why stage that toddlers go through. At times it is annoying, but I love the fact that he has a deep desire to soak up all the information he can!

Gunner, I love you! You are a sweet boy and I am so grateful to have you in my life!

4th of July fun!

2009-07-07T11:35:00.000-07:00

We had a blast on the 4th! Cory had to work that morning, but was off just in time to go to a BBQ at my families house. Mom had to handle the grill since Dad had to work. But there was every meat you can think of. We make no excuses or apologizes for being carnivores! And all the salads and yummy 4th musts like baked beans, corn on the cob and watermelon. Needless to say, we ate to much! But that didn't stop us from enjoying the yummy homemade ice cream. Dang, Now I am hungry!

Then began the fireworks! Cory's favorite part. We started doing some at mom and dads house.

While Levi rode Star's bike. I think he wants one for his own!

Then continued at home on the culdesac. Which Cory has named the culdesac of fire. Cory is now the hero of several teenage boys in our neighborhood! And his brothers and their families joined us.

It was a lot of fun! We had a great time and the kids even slept late the next day. So I know they had fun!

Getting ready!

2009-07-03T11:18:00.000-07:00

I have been really into hair blogs lately. I have found some cute ones for ideas on girls hair. so I found a twist braid star . And decided to do Taya's hair like it today.

Mine star did not stand out quite as much, cause I put the two side braids underneath and they should have gone on top.
Tomorrow Taya will be wearing little firecracker.

Here is what the family is doing right now.

Happy Birthday Bella!

2009-06-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

Today is Bella's (my niece) third birthday! These are a few pics I have of her that I LOVE!
Bella-boo, three reason why we love you!

1. You are Taya's best friend. You gave her a much needed cousin and play mate. You make going to Nana and Papa's house a little bit sweeter for her!

2. You are so wise for such a little girl. You have the wisdom of an old man. And it is fascinating some times to hear all the things you have to say.

3. Bella, you have the Tippetts carnivore gene! I think it is great that you will try anything once! And I think that their should be "steaken"

We love you! Happy, Happy Birthday!

Digital Scrapbooking

2009-06-22T12:32:00.000-07:00

My House is clean, fridge - clean, pantry-clean, laundry - done, yard - fairly weed free, car - detailed, I even dusted! All the things I needed to catch up on are done. Leaving me at the now what stage.
I have always wanted to try my hand at digital scrapbooking. My sister in law, Lyndsy does it and is so good at it. On Friday, I decided to give it a try.
I don't have photoshop, which is what Lyndsy uses and that whole unemployed thing meant I can't buy it. But I found a cute website Scrapblog and created my first digital layout using their program.

Every year on the kids birthday I "interview" them and make a page with their answers to their current favorites. I have needed to do Taya's since her birthday. So here it is in digital format. It was pretty fun I must say. I then got it printed at Costco in 8x12 size. And have added it to her book!
I don't intend to give up the "old fashioned" way of scrapbooking, but I will definitely be adding more digitally made pages also!

Summer Days

2009-06-18T09:23:00.001-07:00

I am currently unemployed. But I figure if I am unemployed, and home with my kids, we may as well have some fun and do a few things that we normally don't have time for. And even if we can't make the bills next month, at least we could say we had some good times!
So Gunner and I have been working on his Bear badge. He turns 10 next month and will "graduate" into Weblos, but it would be nice if he had his badge before he went in.
I have also been looking for free activities (going back to that whole unemployed thing!) that I could do with the kids.
So I looked up art museums online and found out there is one on BYU campus, that is free. Perfect, it would fill an afternoon and help pass off some of Gunners scouting.
I was a little unsure how this would go, Gavin can be a little rambunctious (that is putting it nicely!) so I took Star with me to.
I was surprised how much they enjoyed it. And I was surprised how big the museum was! It was really neat! But the best part came when we went to the lower level.

Walter Wick's art work was on display.
He is the Creator of the Can you See What I See books. Gunner has loved these books since he was two. There is a little yellow and red bead like man that is hidden somewhere in every picture of the books. When Gunner was little and first getting into these books, he thought that was him. So as Taya and Gavin have gotten into the books, we have always called the little guy Gunner.
When we got to the lower level and found this display, the kids went from picture to picture saying "I found Gunner".

I had to explain it to Starlee, I think she got it.

Here is Gunner posing with the little bean guy. And in case you are looking at this picture and think who beat that poor kid up? He crashed his bike the day before. Banged up his face, shoulder and ankle pretty bad!

Definitely a good trip! Now back to job hunting!

Happy Brithday Starlee!

2009-06-18T08:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Star! Here is your list 24 facts and reasons why we love you!!

1. Star is the designated baby sitter. She watches mine and Levi's kids. And the kids love it!
2. She just got back from girls camp.
3. She is the Secretary in the YW in her ward.
4. She is the baby in our family.
5. Star, heard any good Jed jokes lately!
6. Last year, she was very very ill, I am so glad she is better!
7. She loves old people....
8. and dogs.
9. Her nickname is pickles, which is the only one my dad did not give, Levi did.
10. She survived being babysat by Levi! (ask her about this some time!)
11. She can text like a mad women! In fact she sends out all the family wide texts for my mom!
12. She is the only one in the family with pin straight hair!
13. She was named after our mom.
14. She is always willing to help.
15. I don't think she realizes how creative she is.
16. I love her room!!
17. If your looking for a gift idea....she loves Old Navy.
18. She is not allowed to drink soda.
19. She is thinking about going to school...which I think is a great idea.
20. I love her hair, it always looks so cute.
21. She was the sweetest baby, so quite.
22. She is very generous.
23. She is a budding florist, thanks to mom always making her come help at work.
24. She has a great sense of humor, in high school she was voted the next stand up comedian.

Teisha, do you still love me?

2009-06-18T08:21:00.000-07:00

Teisha's birthday was actually on May 28th, but you know what a slacker I am! So here it is 25 (yes, shes old) facts and reasons why we love Teisha!

1. She is a awesome mom!
2. When she was in JR High, she tried to light a trash can on fire...luck for her it didn't work, cause she used wet paper towels. (Yes, we still tease her about that)
3. Her nickname is Scooter.
4. She is named after our Grandma Allen.
5. She is very patient.
6. She is a computer geek at heart, but tries to hide it.
7. When she was a teenager, she watched The Geek at lest 50 times.
8. When Gunner was born and I was sick, she took care of him, she was like his second mom and they still have a special bond.
9. She is a great cook!
10. When she was little, I use to dress her in all the frill dresses I could find in her closet.
11. She currently lives in Hurrcane, UT.
12. She is a great listener.
13. She just got two iguanas.
14. I got to do the flowers for her wedding, which were sunflowers and delphinium.
15. She is currently in the nursery in her ward.
16. Her family is very important to her.
17. She is very creative.
18. She is always willing to let us crash her house.
19. She loves to read.
20. Arbor follows her every where.
21. She has a cool car.
22. She was a flower girl in my wedding.
23. The princess braid!
24. Her and Star use to were matching dresses! It was so cute. (You guys could still do that ya know!)
25. She has a great sense of humor.

Mom!

2009-06-06T07:33:00.000-07:00

Okay I can't really just ditto Lydnsy's list. I am feeling refreshed and relaxed to this ones for you mom/nana (the kids are helping) 49 facts and reasons (even though she claims to be 29) why we love you!

1. Every Sunday she makes homemade rolls just for Taya.
2. She has fabulously huge curly black hair.
3. She loves everyone of her kids (in laws, grand, whatever!)the same.
4. She was a lunch lady.
5. Anything blingy, sparkly or just plain gaudy will get her attention.
6. Nana dimples!
7. Give her a Pepsi and you'll be her friend for life!
8. She has 4 children(me, Levi, Teisha and Starlee..
9. 3 "adopted" children, Cory, Lyndsy, Johnny...
10. 8 grandchildren, Shaylee Gunner, Gavin, Taya, Bella, Arbor, Paislee and Kailia.
11. She broke her ankle..trust me it wasn't graceful!
12. She has been married 31 years to the love of her life, my dad Kevin.
13. When we were little we each thought we were her favorite kid, cause she would tell us we were and tell us not to tell the other kids. It wasn't until we were adults, that we discovered she said that to all of us!
14. The naked boy song.
15. Cinnamon rolls.
16. She is a great cook!
17. She was adopted at the age of 5 by Marion & LaRae Allen.
18. She was raised by them on a little farm in Kingston Utah.
19. She attended Pleasant Grove High School (go Vikings!)
20. She loves the color red.
21. She love vintage costume jewelry.
22. When I told her I was pregnant, at barely 18. The first thing she said was "don't marry him if you don't love him... being pregnant is not a reason to get married!" You have to be one clear headed parent to say that!
23. She pulled mine & Cory's wedding together in just over a month.
24. She is the florist at the PG Maceys.
25. She is known there for her touch of bling the corsages she makes.
26. She has a great sense of humor.
27. I admire the relationship she has with my dad. Like I said 31 years of marriage, and they still make out!
28. She LOVES DI. And has a gift of seeing the potential in what may seem like junk.
29. Butternut squash soup.
30. At Christmas we all looked forward to our stockings the most, because we knew they would be awesome...thanks to her!
31. She let me cry on her after Shaylee, for many months.
32. Shopping moms pantry.
33. She is a closet Cher fan.
34. When ever one of us has a birthday, she lets us choose dinner. She has even made grilled hamburgers in February.
35. I know that whatever I am going through, good, bad or ugly she will listen.
36. The pinto...listening to Thriller.
37. She was a stay at home mom through out our childhoods.
38. She has one prizes for her costumes (the picture above)
39. She is quick to forgive.
40. Passion fruit snow cones.
41. She is very generous.
42. She loves to read, Mary Higgins Clark is one of her favs, but she still won't read the Twilight series.
43. She hates spiders and heights.
44. She has 3 sisters and 1 brother.
45. In the 80's she was a tole artist, very talented.
46. She can make anything better than most people, except Funeral potatoes - Aunt Cec, Potato salad - Johnny and Fudge Jumbles - me.
47. She is famous for her Halloween dishes, most particular potty pudding.
48. When Levi and I were teens she would often wake up on Saturday morning to her entire family room filled with sleeping teenagers and I never heard her complain about it!
49. She has offered each of us kids $100 if we would give one our kids the middle name Pepsi.

We love you mom/nana! Thank you for all you do and I hope you had a great birthday!

It's been awhile!

2009-06-05T18:00:00.000-07:00

So I have totally slacked off in keeping up on the blog! I can't believe it has been since April and that May is already over!
The kids are out of school. They really needed the break, especially Gunner, I think he had it by the last day. Before they got out I got to go with Gunner on his field trip to the Bean Museum and to the Pioneer Park Museum in Provo. It was fun and I got such a kick out of watching Gunner and his classmates. They are all in the stage were they are deciding maybe the opposite sex is not as icky as they thought! But they don't want to say it out loud, cause what if their friends still think that girls are icky! So they stand in two groups, one boys and one girls. And one will go "hey Camille, Gunner thinks your cute!" and then a girl goes "no, Camille likes Jack" and so a boy yells back, "Jack thinks Maria is cute!" and they go back and forth until one or the boys decides he needs to prove who he likes and goes over and pulls a girls hair! And then it starts all over again.

Gunner and his friends Jack & Christian.

But, that is not all we learned. The Bean Museum is really cool. And it is free. So if you or the kids have never been and you are looking for something to fill the summer days you should check it out.

I thought Pioneer Park was really interesting, but the kids were bored and lost interested in what the guide had to say.

Gunner took his digital camera with him. One of the best parts was watching what he would take pictures of.

I probably took more pictures like these than of anything else!

But the very best part was getting to spend a whole day with just Gunner. Sometimes I feel like I put so much pressure on him, cause he is the oldest. And I don't get to spend a lot of time with just him.

But, now that school is done that leaves us with the fun question, what do we do with three kids all summer? They don't need to be babysat, more just supervised to make sure they don't play video games all day. Lucky for us my mom and sister, Star are helping us out. Taya loves spending time with her Auntie!

I also did not get to wish my mom and sister, Teisha a happy birthday and do there list! But my Sis in law, Lyndsy did such a good job hers, I am just going to say ditto! Happy (late)Birthday mom and Teisha, love you both!

A couple more pics for my sisters. Remember the princess braid? Here is Taya sporting her very own version of it!

And the winners are....

2009-04-14T17:44:00.000-07:00

Okay for all you who follow along to the antics of the crazy Tippetts clan, you know of our various contests through out the year, the pumpkin carving contest, the ugliest sock contest and the Easter egg decorating contest. This is the contest we started first and it has been going for 4 maybe 5 years. It started simple, a little egg die, some felt, a couple hours and ta-da a prize worth egg. But now the planning starts at least three weeks in advance, and then the scheming and yes even the trash talking! For all you who are "friends" with any of us on facebook, you may have seen the trash talking going on (sorry!).

This year the kids really got into it. They would not even tell me what they were planning, until I told them if they needed any supplies from the store, the better let me in on their plans!

So here is how it ended up...

Gunners Polar Bear eating a fish.

Gavins President Obama sticking his tongue out. (Gavin was very into the election this year.)

Tayas dog chasing a cat chasing a rat.

Corys Deviled Egg.

Mom's Alien & Ship (The sign says "take me to your Beater")

Levis golf ball (which is funny, cause he doesn't even play golf!)

Teishas Egg mobile (Which surprisingly one the most colorful...go figure)

Bellas pink sparkle egg

Okay and now for the big winners...
In third place

Starlees Mr Peanut (Gunner & Gavin went home and googled Mr Peanut, cause they had never heard of him, and were shocked at all the websites for Mr Peanut.)

In second place:

Dad's Waki Waki ohhhh Aaaah bird

And the winner!

Mine! Mr Potato Head. (that's right, I kicked your butts!)

I know we are crazy, but it was a lot of fun!

Picture Princess for shabbyapple.com

2009-03-30T08:17:00.000-07:00

Taya Shay Johnson is your Picture Princess! She has the sweetest little smile and big beautiful eyes, that are always drawing peoples attention. Some her favorite things are her sparkle red shoes, her pink purse full of Polly Pockets and the feather boa that her Auntie got her for her birthday. She would be a great model for you!

The perfect dress for Taya to wear would be Gumballs . Little girls & Girls Dresses from shabby baby.

2009-03-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

Gavin has a very charsmatic personality, EVERYBODY know who Gavin is at his school, the little kids, the big kids, the teachers. I have seen 8th graders walk up to him in the hall and say "Hey Gavin how is it going?" So it was no big surprise when Gavin was chosen to be the star of the first grade play. He was Christopher Columbus. I have to say, coming up with that costume was hard, I mean really, what did Christopher Columbus wear? Even Wikipedia could not give me a good idea. So I ended up recycling his pirate costume, without the hat and the eye patch. And even though he was horrible sick (he had a fever of 101.6) he did great! And you know, he was the of course the cutest one up there! (I'm his mom, what else am I going to say!) So until he wins an Oscar, at least he has my vote!

Pay it Forward

2009-03-09T13:15:00.001-07:00

1. Be one of the first THREE bloggers to leave a comment on this post, which then entitles you to a handmade item from me (hooray for handmade!).

2. If you are one of the first three to make a comment, you are a winner! And you then agree to post this challenge on your own blog, meaning that you will pay it forward, creating a handmade gift -anything!- for the first THREE bloggers who leave a comment on YOUR post about this giveaway!

3. The gift that you send to your 3 friends can be from any price range and you have 365 days to make/ship your item. This means you should be willing to maintain your blog at least until you receive your gift and have shipped your gifts. And, remember it’s the spirit and the thought that count!

4. When you receive your gift, blog about it! If you are not one of the first three to comment on this post, you can still play along. Go ahead and start your own Pay It Forward chain, and encourage your blogging friends to do the same! It's all about paying it forward.Enjoy!!!!!!!!

Nascar Baby!

2009-03-08T09:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, sorry for so many posts in a row, but this is my version of a family journal and I am trying to get caught up!
Cory got the chance to go to Vegas last weekend to see the Nascar race. He has never been a much of a fan, but his brothers, Jared and Kyle went and invited him to go. So he took Johnny with him too! And oh no, we have a fan. He came home so excited about Nascar and even tried to convince me that I want to go! I am just glad that he had a good time! And apperantly he know has something to fill in between Jazz Basketball and BYU football!

Build A Bear Fun

2009-03-08T09:14:00.000-07:00

For Taya's birthday her friends Jaylynn and Rachel got her a gift card to Build A Bear. This was perfect, because she has been asking to go there for some time. So after school we took them. But you can't let one kid get a lovey and not let the others. So Gunner and Gavin lucked out and got to particpate in the fun!

Taya's Tinkerbell Party

2009-03-08T09:07:00.000-07:00

The birthday Girl!

Taya's Tinkerbell party was last week. It was a lot of work, but I think all the kids had fun! As the girls came, the got to put on a tutu, a pair of fairy wings and a fairy "crown" (a headband with a green flower). Then they went on a pixie treasure hunt. Then they got there nails painted and made a fairy wand. After that we did gifts and cake and ice cream. For the last little bit they watched the Tinkerbell movie. All in all it was great and most important Taya had a blast!

The party room

Taya Baby!

2009-02-27T15:47:00.000-08:00

Taya, our "baby" is 6 today. I can't believe my sweet little MayMay, is 6!! So in her honor...

1. Taya is my sweet little princess, the one we waited for after we lost Shaylee.
2. Taya is so patient, probably from having 2 big brothers.
3. She loves any thing mini - the smaller the better!
4. Taya is the only kid I know who would rather eat an orange or apple over cake and cookies!
5. Give her a box of cereal and her "buggy" and she is one happy girl!
6. When she was about 2 she was jumping on my bed, did a back flip and landed on her nose on a book case. It was 8:30 at night, I was home with the kids by myself. There was blood everywhere and she passed out. I called 911. They cops, fire dept and ambulance all arrived. She ended up being okay, after 11 stitches across her tiny little nose. But to this day she still has a very faint scar.

I love you Taya, you are my sweet little princess!!!!

Fight Bruins Fight

2009-02-16T21:00:00.001-08:00

Taya attended the itty bitty bruins cheer camp this past week. She learned to do a cute dance that they performed at the half time of the Springville/Mtn View basketball game. She also learned some of the cheers. She was excited to attend this year, because one of the girls from her school class was in it with her, as was her friend from the neighborhood. She sure was the cutest one there!

Happy Happy Birthday Levi B. Tippetts

2009-02-15T19:41:00.000-08:00

1. Levi is very hard working.
2. He was my first best friend.
3. Growing up without Levi would have been so boring!! He definitely made the teenager years a little more interesting!
4. Levi is a cute daddy to his 3 beautiful girls.
5. Levi builds amazing furniture, I am truly amazed at what he can create.
6. He is the only boy, and handles it very well!
7. He served a mission in Brazil.
8. He'll it a pan of fudge jumbles, by himself if we let him.
9. Gavin is a mini version of Levi in both looks and personality.
10. I wanted him to be my maid of honor, but he elected to do music duty instead.
11. His middle name is Bear.
12. He speaks Spanish/Portuguese.
13. He would kill for a Dr Pepper, although I am not sure if he is "off" them right now.
14. Levi built the home that his family lives in and did lots of the work building our parents home as a teenager.
15. Has a great sense of fashion, for a man.
16. He and his sweet wife, Lyndsy have been married for five years.
17. Levi loves to camp and fish.
18. Love meat.
19. Levi and I are 13 months apart in age.
20. A great friend.
21. A wonderful priesthood holder.
22. Loves to wrestle with his nephews.
23. Great on vocals for rock band.
24. Levi is addicted to facebook and has gotten the rest of us into it.
25. Levi has very sweet eyes.
26. Has a fear of clowns.
27. Is a good example.
28. Levi was a really cute baby!
29. Has a very strong testimony in Heavenly Father.

Johnny Umberger, Happy Birthday!

2009-01-25T19:00:00.000-08:00

So Lyndsy, my sister in law, saw this idea on one of my cousions blogs and borrowed it from her, I am now borrowing it from Lyndsy.
She did this for me, in honor of my birthday and I loved it! She listed one thing about me for each year I have been alive. I am only one birthday behind, Johnny, my brother in law, So I figured now is the perfect time to start! Johnny's birthday was a couple of weeks ago.

1. Johnny is an awesome dad.
2. Johnny is a computer wiz, he can fix anything or answer any question having to do with a computer.
3. He & Cory and great friends!
4. Johnny has 1 sister and 1 brother.
5. Johnny is so sweet with his mom.
6. He is very patient. Anyone who can have Teisha's ENTIRE family packed into their house and still smile...a saint really!
7. Johnny was a toe head, just like Arbor when he was little.
8. He currently lives in Hurricane, UT, but has lived in LOTS of other places.
9. He LOVES remote control cars.
10. Johnny and Teisha have a very sweet marriage.
11. He can make the BEST potato salad ever!
12. Very funny, after he gets to know you.
13. Extremely smart.
14. Very generous.
15. Has a great smile.
16. Beautiful blue eyes.
17. A champion egg decorator.
18. Always willing to help out.
19. Loves his Xbox.
20. Has a very sweet dog, Zoe.
21. Is a total carnivore, just like the rest of us.
22. Works from home.
23. Recently gave up soda pop.
24. Not much of a talker, but when he does it is worth hearing.
25. Loves his nieces and nephews.
26. Johnny is very proud of his little family.
27. Great listener.

Happy late B-Day Johnny! Hope your day was great!

2009-01-16T19:05:00.000-08:00

Have you ever?
Have you ever done anything on this list? If you feel like it, join the fun and highlight the things that you've done on your own list.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given generously to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Lived in Italy
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had chickenpoxs
17. Been to the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Sat in a jury
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Ran a marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Climbed the Leaning Tower of Pisa
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Had a baby girl
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Seen Grease in a theater
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Had you own business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Bought girl scout cookies
62. Gone whale watching with your child
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter with your child
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Book of Mormon
86. Visited the White House
89. Saved someone's life
93. Lost a loved one
98. Own a Blackberry
99. Been stung by a bee

2009-01-12T19:44:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebs - Collage - Morph

Honestly, I thought I would look way more like my mom, than my dad, but it is pretty even

The dreaded move...

2009-01-06T13:14:00.000-08:00

So we made the move over the New Year weekend. I had two nearly four day weekends in a row and had to spend the first one packing and the second one moving. Not My idea of a way to spend vacation time! But the move went relatively smooth. We had lots of family that helped out! My mom and sister, Star, got the kitchen in order. My sister in law, Sharla and mom in law got Gavin's and Taya's rooms up and going. And I got Gunner's room. I love Gunner, he is so neat and orderly, but he is not very good at moving. He freaked!! He would not use any of the bathrooms until I Lysoled them. His desk was put in his room and it was not centered and he went nuts. Plus, he could not play games for 4 days, cause they were not hooked up and he was so miserably mean because of it! But all is well now, his desk is centered, his books are on the shelf in order from biggest to smallest and all the bathrooms have been Lysoled. He even spent all day Sunday playing video games. Thank you, everyone who helped us move!!! You rock!!

Our Internet is not up at home yet, but as soon is it is I will be posting pics from Christmas. Hope everyone else had a funner New Year than us, at least I got my midnight kiss from Cory after which we fell into bed, exhausted!

2008-12-26T18:36:00.000-08:00

This is a fun tag! Open the folder where you keep all your photos. Look at the 3rd folder and post the 3rd picture listed with out cropping or editing. Now explain the picture.
I tag: EVERYONE!

This is one of my favorite pics of Gavin! This is from Rob's reservoir, a family fishing hole. It was taken in 2007 by my sister in law Lyndsy. I had sent to camera with Cory and told him to take pictures. Lyndsy took the camera from him and filled it with so many cute pictures. I know Cory would not have done this. (Thanks Lyndsy!) I used this picture some many times when I was working at Die Cuts.

The little things

2008-12-23T10:56:00.000-08:00

So the house problem worked out so nicely. But in addition to this BIG thing, I have really noticed all the little things the Lord has helped me with in the last few days. There was my quick dash to the store on Saturday morning. I was in a huge hurry to get back home as we had people coming over. I needed to pick up some crushed pineapple and I was at Walmart, which I HATE, so of course I could not find it. The pineapple was for a cake that Gunner had been nagging me to make with him. In my haste to get home, I decided to forgo the pineapple, even though I would face Gunner's wrath. As I was checking out at one of those self checkouts, I look up and there is a can of crushed pineapple sitting on top of the register! I know this may not seem like a huge deal, but to help a stressed mother not disappoint a sweet child, it really was!

Another instance, every year we donate a gift that we would have bought for Shaylee. So this year I was donating for an 11 year old girl. I had not done it yet, but intended to Saturday, but all the Toys for Tots bins were gone. Then Teisha suprised us with a visit. She & Johnny had been in charge of the giving tree for their ward. She was telling my mom and I about this 11 year old girl, who had been given a lot of nice clothes and even a book, but no toy. WOW! Just what I was needing. So again not a huge deal, but to have this drop so simply into my lap.....It just dosen't feel like Christmas until I donate that gift.

We aren't going to be homeless!!

2008-12-21T19:32:00.000-08:00

About three weeks ago, the property managment lady called and said that the owners son wanted to move into the house and they wouldn't be extending the least when it was up in February. She also said that if we would be out by January 9th, they would give us the full deposit back, without holding the cleaning fee. Knowing we were going to have to be out in February any ways, and that we could use the deposit instead of Decembers rent, we said okay.
So we began searching and searching and searching. If you want to see a shocker, look at the rent section on Craigslist and see how much people want for these run down, tiny homes. It is truly amazing!
We thought we had one about three weeks ago on the hill here in Springville. But there was someone who looked at it before us and they decided they wanted it.
So we started over, we found a cute one just down the street, a twin home, but pretty cheap. We were the first to see this one and were feeling pretty confident. We had an appointment to sign the lease at 7:30. We sat in the drive way for thirty minutes waiting for the guy to show up, when he didn't we went home and called him. He said another couple had looked at the place and they were commiting to a 4 year lease. And they could move in Saturday. We said we would commit to two years, move in on Friday and give him the deposit, december rent and January rent in cash. But he said he felt the other couple would be a better fit. This was last Saturday.
I was so discouraged by this point, I wanted to give up! A cardboard box was looking good at this point. Keep in mind we were trying to do all this in addition to all the holiday shopping and celebration.
So we started over. We were looking to live in Springville but were open to Provo and Orem too.
There was the niceest house posted on Craigslist in Orem, between work and the kids school. I had looked at it a couple of times, but it was a little more than we could pay. At this point I was desperate, so I emailed and made an offer. He meet with us, showed us the beautiful house and accepted the offer, if we passed a background test and our refrences checked out. No problems there! And yesterday we signed the lease! We move in on January 1st. It is a nice house, in a great neighborhood right in the middle of were we need to be. Heavenly Father knows what he is doing!

Dear Santa...

2008-12-10T20:28:00.000-08:00

So Gunner has never really commited to anything for Christmas at one point he wanted a telescope. But he brought this letter home from school today.

He is asking for a CTR ring, animal crossing city folk for wii, legos and Mario cart double dose for game cube and also a digital camera for his blog. And as every child his belife in Santa, he has asked santa to fix his beloved nutcracker.

Gavin was using it to crack pistachios and he broke the handle in the back that makes the mouth move up and down. So if any of you have ideas on how to fix that...My dad or Levi could probably do it, so I may have to give it to one of those experts! Help Levi, Help Dad!

On a brighter note, we finally got the tree and Christmas decorations up on Saturday. I think the house looks great! We ended up using a little mini tree I have and putting it on a tall box. We have a 10 foot tall tree, but in this house there are no ceilings that tall. So we improvised. And ALL the ortaments are on! Now you put that many on a 10 foot tree, they look great! You put them on a 5 foot tree and well...

They are all on the bottom branches!

We also found out on Saturday that we have to move out of this house by January 1st. The owners kids are moving to Utah and want to live in the house. So we have been frantically looking for a house. We found an adorable one up on the hill from were we live. We are hoping to get that one, we put in an application for it, but I guess a few other people are looking at it too. I am keeping my fingers crossed!

GO SEE TWILIGHT!

2008-11-23T09:31:00.000-08:00

Why you still sitting there...go!
Okay, maybe not this moment, but it is worth seeing.
I went and saw the first midnight showing on Thursday night/Friday morning. Having scored a TICKET (Thanks Danelle!)
I was prepared to be disappointed, cause I thought the guy playing Edward was not nearly as cute as he was in my mind. But the movie rocked!! And "Edward" even pulled it off. Unlike a few of the Harry Potters, it even put as much of the book in as a 2 hour movie could hold. Plus Jacob was adorable, Bella was perfect and the guying playing James was HOT!
Even if you have not read the books, I think you would enjoy the movie.
I will deffinetly be seeing that again.

Now a plug for my sister in law. go check out http://www.bellabooinc.blogspot.com/
Lyndsy does digital Christmas Cards. They are so cute and only $15 and you get a digital copy so you can print as many as you want. They are cuter than anything I have seen on snapfish, costco and walmart. Plus she can customize them. So if you have a favorite color or need more pics or less pics, she can do it. She is amazing. She has done my moms for the past couple of year. Check it out.

If I don't make it back on before Thanksgiving..Hope you have a good one. And happy shopping the next day, of you are like Cory and I then you will be out shopping!

Super Saturday

2008-11-10T19:12:00.000-08:00

So a few weeks ago I got to go to super Saturday. Here are the cute blocks I made for the kids for Christmas. And a set for me.

Quarter Collection

2008-11-08T19:33:00.000-08:00

Cory started a state quarter collection for the kids. They were either to little or not born to start it them selves when the goverment started the quarter series. There is only one state left to come out - Hawaii.
Once the kids got older, they took over their on collecting. I must admit, Gunner, with his obsessiveness is the best at reminding us to update them.

Today, Cory and the kids broke out their collection. Gunner and Taya's are about complete.

But they are all missing a few. So if any of you come across any of the following. Please let us know.

Michigan
Kansas
Delware
New Mexico
Nevada
Arizona
Colorado
Montana
South Dakota

Let us know if you have any of these.
Also, if you have been reading Gunner's blog, THANK YOU!! He is a bit obssesed with it, but it is encouraging him to read and write which was the goal!

Now I must share a rant!
In August, Cory and I went to Ken Garff Nissan in Orem to look at trucks. We didn't really intend to buy the day we went, however we we did. Or so we thought.
A month and half later we had not recieved any statement to pay on the truck, nor had we recieved plates for the truck. When we called them, they said they had been unable to get a loan and we would have to come and pick out something cheaper. When we got there the sales man (Shelton) tried to pressure us into a larger truck, older, which was what we were trying to avoid, for gas purposes, we really didn't need a bigger truck anyways. This truck had ALOT of miles on it and was only $5,000 less then the one we had. So we told him, we would just give them back their truck, we would take Cory's old tuck back (which was still on the lot) and call it good.
Shelton told us to give him a minute. 10 minutes later he said it had all been worked out, they would take $4,000 of the truck we were in and give us $500 more of our trade-in. By this point Cory and I were a little uncomfortable and asked if we could just walk away. We were told, oh no the loan has already been approved.
So another month goes by. We still have no plates and no bill from a finance place. I call to see were I need to make my payment and to get the plates and get the run around for the next two weeks. We finally get through to the laid who does the plates. She tells us the loan has still not financed! About this time Cory gets laid off. So know we are out of more than half our income. There is no way we are going to be able to make this payment, nor get approved for a loan. So the day after he is laid off, Cory goes to the dealer ship and tells them. They tell him he will have to come up with more money for the down payment (Uh, no money, he just got laid off!) or have a co signer. He says why would I have my family co sign for a loan, I know I can't make right now. They tell him not to worry about they will work something out! Huh? How?!? So two more weeks. And on Thursday we get a very rude message on our voicemail telling us we don't own the truck and to bring it back! So we go to the dealership and tell them we will just trade back, like we orginally wanted to do. But oh no, they have wholesaled the Cory's old truck! So now we are out a truck. Oh and did I mention in the process of trying to get us a loan they had our credit pulled over 20 times!!! When I point that out to him, he says that is no big deal, it will only knock our credit down a few points. To which I tell him a few points each time it is pulled! Then he tires to say that is standard. I point out when we bought our Charger 5 months earlier, they pulled out credit 3 times!

So bottom line, yes I am grateful I will not have to make the very large payment with out Cory's income. But, we strongly suggest, you stay away from Ken Garff Nissan!!!!!

Thanks for "listening" to me vent!

#1 Song

2008-11-03T20:19:00.000-08:00

http://www.joshhosler.biz/NumberOneInHistory/SelectMonth.htm

So this fun website will give you the #1 song on any given day.

#1 song when I was born.......Le Freak by Chic
When Cory was born....You Light up My life By Debby Boone
When Shaylee was born..Candle in the Wind by Elton John
When Gunner was born...Bills, Bills, Bills by Destiny's Child
When Gavin was born....Family Affair by Mary J Blige
When Taya was born.....All I Have by Jennifer Lopez featuring LL Cool J

I think this list just goes to show how old I am and how young the kids are!

Last one, the day Cory & I were married was Believe by Cher.

Check it out, it is pretty fun!

More of too much sugar!

2008-11-02T18:18:00.000-08:00

Okay so to continue...
On Friday afternoon we had several stops to make, we went to my moms house, my work, Grandma Johnson's work, then back to mom's house for pizza and my parents tradition of taking their grand kids around their neighborhood.Even Paislee and Kailia went out for a bit, until it started to sprinkle.

Then it was on to the Alphins house for donuts, hot cocoa and chili. This is another tradition of Cory's from when he was little. (By the way if you need a real estate agent, Don Alphin, is the best!!) Then back to our house.

Trick or Treating was kind of lame around our neighborhood. It is nice having a quite neighborhood, except there are no kids to play with and come trick or treating. So the kids and Cory headed out to get some candy. We only had about 10 trick or treaters to our house! I have so much candy left over!

Yesterday morning was super Saturday. I really wanted to go cause they had some cute things. So Spent the morning creating with my mom and Lyndsy. But I felt rushed because...

Yesterday was Gavin's birthday party too. I begged old man Johnson (that's my nickname for Cory when he is being grumpy) to let us have the party at Jumpin' Jacks or something. To save me from having 12 kids at my house. But no!! We ended up doing a Rock Band party for Gavin. He LOVED it! We played Rock Band, and Rock Band 2 (our gift to Gavin) had cake ate pizza-- you know whats scare, carrying in pizza into a group of 10 hungry boys! I almost lost an arm! Luckily Bella, Taya's cousin was their to keep Taya company, other wise the poor thing would have been lost! But Gavin had a blast. I intentionally did not put any candy into the gift bags, because I figured most parents were like me and disgusted with how much candy was already in the house! It was tempting though.

Saturday night we went to Tucano's (YUMMY!) with my family. Gavin really wanted them to sing to him with the drums. You should have seen how cute he was. I would post a picture, but I forgot my camera! So we were trying to be cheap and kids 6 and under are free. So we were trying to tell the waitress Gavin was 6 and he pipes up, "No, I am SEVEN!" Opps, got caught in that white lie! Serves me right I guess.

After that week, I woke up today intending to play slacker and skip church (I know shame on me!) I was all settled on the couch with a bowl of cereal and PJ's just starting to watch a marathon of Top Design. When I was pushed off my seat and yelled at by the spirit "Get up and go to church!" to which I argued "Why me? and I don't want to!" But he wouldn't leave me alone! So I got the kids ready and myself. And headed to church. We were even there early!
I had been praying and looking for a way to bring the idea of service and the meaning of Christmas to the kids. Since the gimmes have already started.
Our bishop was making the announcements that you actually hear when you are early. And the bishop began talking about the service project that our ward does every year. It is called Operation Christmas Child. And they do it in conjunction with the First Baptist church here in Springville. You get a plastic shoe box, pick a gender and an age and fill it with appropriate items. The items are then sent to a third world country. Every year Cory and I buy and donate a gift in honor of Shaylee that we would have gotten her, to toys for tots. I had already decided to do this project in Shaylee's honor. When it hit me, I need to let the kids see us do this and participate in this with us. So I made up my mind right then that we would present the idea to the kids tomorrow in family home evening. So I was already happy that I had come. And then the Relief Society lesson was about service! The spirit I felt there was amazing! I left that room in tears, knowing why I had been thrown off my comfy couch this morning. But, the Lord wasn't done! The kids, all three of them, had primary lessons about serving others! I could not ask for a better moment to present the idea of service to them. I get chills even now, thinking about how this all came about.

So what a week! I am sorry for the lenghty post, but I need to get it all down! So thanks to those who made it this far.

Too much Sugar!

2008-11-01T19:48:00.000-07:00

So much has gone on this last week! I am so TIRED! Monday we had our annual pumpkin carving contest at my parent's house. I am sad to say my pumpkin did not win. Here's the picture

Can you believe it! I think it was rig, because Gunner, Gavin and Taya took 3rd. Okay, it might have looked better had I actually had time to carve it. But Cory and I ended up carving the kids. Gunner's pumpkin was so hard, it could only be carved with Cory's skill saw, Gavin lost interest after about 5 minutes, but still wanted his done and we would not let Taya use a knife. But I thought they turned out good.

Tayas is the top one, Gunners is on the right and Gavin's is on the left.

Levi and Starlee - the cheaters, won! (CHEATERS!) They tied for 1st.

This is Levi's. I don't have a picture of Star's cause hers was texted from St George.
I thought mom and Dads were AWESOME!

This is Dad's.

This is mom's. The hand and the eye were both carved from pumpkins.

I hope everyone does not think we are strange or weird, but even if you do, we had fun and that is all that matters!

So then Tuesday was Gavin's Birthday. Yup, my little man turned 7!! It was not much of a day, cause we knew we were going to go big Saturday for his party and out to eat. We also had Pack meeting. Gunner was suppose to get his Wolf, but they forgot it, so he will get it next month. We are the Wolf and Bear scout leaders. I thought nursery was a horrible calling, nah, this is the harder one! We have one boy that tries our patience!!! But our den did preform a skit, which turned out well.

Gavin's asthma started acting up really bad on wed and Thursday. He stayed home Thursday and was passed back and forth between Cory and my mom. Poor guy. He went and saw the doctor, who said his oxygen levels were fine, but he upped the dosage on his preventive meds, which are now making him throw up every night for the last 3 nights!

And then came Friday. The constant sugar high starting with Frosted Flakes for breakfast all the way to the one piece of candy before bed that I let them have. Cory and I helped at the school with parties. I went to Gunner and Cory to Gavin's. I also popped into Taya's class too. The Spanish teacher came dressed as Taya for Halloween. And Taya and Mrs Anderson matched in their snow white costumes. They have to dress within their curriculum, so something they are studying at school. Gunner's class just finished Treasure Island, so his Link costume doubled as a pirate. Gavin's class was classics story's so his captain Jack became a pirate from Treasure Island. And Taya's was fairy tales, so she was Snow White from Last year.

This was taken before school.

My MISfortune Teller costume.

Cory and I together. This was taken by Gunner, which was actually pretty cute! Cory is a rock star!

Okay, I am tired, so the remainder of the week will include such highlights as Trick or Treating, Gavin's Birthday party and dinner. So stay tuned for more to come!

2008-10-22T20:12:00.000-07:00

Peter Piper picked a Pumpkin

2008-10-22T19:39:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to a pumpkin patch here in Springville and let the kids get their pumpkins. It was fairly busy because of the beutiful day! But we managed to find some good ones. We will be carving them this weekend and then will be kicking butt at my families anual pumpkin carving contest!

Family Pics and other stuff

2008-10-14T15:29:00.001-07:00

We had pics taken on Saturday. They turned out so cute! Jill Scott, our photographer, is the best! But the range of looks on Tayas face is truly funny. She wouldn't relax and so they all look strained. Their a couple of cute ones, but for the most part....! I will be posting some of the pics later.

On a slightly less fun note, Cory was laid off today. He was working for Contempo Tile in Orem. There sales have been declining (as have everyones with anything to do with housing). So they had to lay off the two newest guys, which included Cory. They gave him a decent severance check at least. Which sort of leads to the next topic....

We have always said we wanted to live in St George. We have always said someday. But we feel if we don't do it know, before the kids get much older, then we would not be able to it at all. If Cory is going to have to get a new job, why not look there? We are praying about it. We have talked to the kids and they seem excited at the idea. So we will see....

Tagged! 8 Things...

2008-10-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am a newbie blogger, so this is the first time I have been "tagged". But it seems fun, so thanks Karilyn, for introducing something fun and all about me (which doesn't happen often when you are a mommy"

8 Things I am passionate about:

1. Cory! Love of my life and best friend.
2. My kids, all 4 of them. Don't get me started on them.
3. My family
4. Living the gospel, and being an eternal family.
5. My friends
6. Staying out of unnecessary debt. Or as we call it "the Vacuum".
7. Ensuring my kids get a good education.
8. Scrapbooking, all though I am fairly far behind

8 Phrases I say Often:

1. Love you!
2. Walk it off.
3. I don't know how to make I don't know.
4. Are your arms and legs painted on. (thanks Dad!)
5. Turn off the games.
6. No, I don't speak Spanish.
7. Am I speaking Spanish again?
8. Good Afternoon, Traco.

8 Things I want to do Before I Die:

1. Go on a cruise.
2. Finish all my scrapbooks.
3. Make a "gourmet" meal.
4. Learn a foreign language.
5. Be a Size 8.
6. Visit Nauvoo.
7. See each of my children married in the temple.
8. Meet all of my grandchildren.

8 Things I want or Need:

1. To appreciate my kids and husband more.
2. To read to Taya more.
3. New dress shoes for work that aren't open toe.
4. A Gavy hug.
5. The economy to settle down.
6. A cricut machine.
7. Be more patient.
8. To stop coughing.

8 (or 5) People I Tag:
1. Teisha
2. Lyndsy
3. Laura
4. Athena
5. Michelle

Boys Will Be Boys?!?

2008-09-24T20:26:00.000-07:00

Not this time! Gunner is in 4th grade. Never had an complaints from any of his teachers. Never been in trouble for anything.

Gavin, however, oh Gavin! Gavin is in 1st grade. It took him half of the year in kindergarten to come out of his shell. After that there was no stopping him! He had been in 1st grade for only two weeks when he had a discipline note sent home saying he was disrupting the class and running in the halls. (I saved it and put it in his scrapbook..to someday prove to him he was a handful!) To be honest I have to feel some compassion and pity for his teacher.

So what happens when you take sweet, good, obedient Gunner and combine him with wild child, goofy, adorable Gavin and for fun lets throw in several bowls of wet, soggy cheerios? Combine all this with a handful of their friends and a big lunch room? That's right...Gavin and Gunner started a FOOD FIGHT!!! Were do they learn this?

Now let me elaborate on how I found this out. 8:00 PM: Me tucking Taya into bed:
"Mommy?"
"What?"
"Gunner and Gavin had to clean the whole lunch room today at breakfast?"
"That's nice, go to sleep."
"They had to clean up all the Cheerios"
"Oh?"
"Because they had a HUGE food fight!"
"They WHAT?, GUNNER, GAVIN"....

After a look in the back packs, I discover a note from Gunners teacher (conveniently located at the bottom of the back pack). Telling us about the food fight.

Bring on the punishment...Any effective suggestions?

A Roarin' Good Time!

2008-09-15T20:02:00.000-07:00

So this past weekend we (our family, my parents, my brother, Levi, and his little girl, Bella and my sister Star) headed out to Vernal, Utah to Dinosaurland. We got there late Friday night. We had just enough time to eat a bowl of soup (Thanks, mom!), set up the tent trailer, eat a smore and fall into bed. But the next morning every one was up and ready to go by 9:00. So off to the Quarry we went. Much to our disappointment the Quarry was closed because the building cracked in half. So we went on the little hike, which was a little disappointing, not a dinosaur insight!

So we headed back to Vernal were we spotted the Field House Museum. That was cool. We saw a movie about the different groups of Dinosaurs and how they dig and excavate for fossils. The boys were so into it. I haven't seen them hold that still for awhile! Then we went through the museum were we got to do a lot of hands on fun.

Then out to the cool garden, were we got yelled at for touching the displays! But they were so fun it was hard not to.

It was a little nip in the morning and at night. But we had a heater in the tent trailer, so it was not horrible.

On the way home we stopped at Strawberry were Cory caught the one and only fish, it was a good size one too!

Over all it was a awesome weekend!

A message to all Women

2008-09-06T11:10:00.000-07:00

This was sent to me by my Aunt Terry, it moved me to tears, I for one will now be voting,simply because of this story!

WHY WOMEN SHOULD VOTE

This is the story of our Grandmothers and Great-grandmothers; they lived only 90 years ago.

Remember, it was not until 1920

that women were granted the right to go to the polls and vote.

The women were innocent and defenseless, but they were jailed
nonetheless for picketing the White House, carrying signs asking
for the vote.

And by the end of the night, they were barely alive.
Forty prison guards wielding clubs and their warden's blessing
went on a rampage against the 33 women wrongly convicted of
'obstructing sidewalk traffic.'

(Lucy Burns)
They beat Lucy Burns, chained her hands to the cell bars above
her head and left her hanging fo! r the ni ght, bleeding and gasping
for air.

(Dora Lewis)
They hurled Dora Lewis into a dark cell, smashed her
head against an iron bed and knocked her out cold. Her cellmate,
Alice Cosu, thought Lewis was dead and suffered a heart attack.
Additional affidavits describe the guards grabbing, dragging,
beating, choking, slamming, pinching, twisting and kicking the women.

Thus unfolded the 'Night of Terror' on Nov. 15, 1917,
when the warden at the Occoquan Workhouse in Virginia ordered his
guards to teach a lesson to the suffragists imprisoned there because
they dared to picket Woodrow Wilson's White House for the right
to vote.
For weeks, the women's only water came from an open pail. Their
food--all of it colorless slop--was infested with worms.

(Alice Paul)
When one of the leaders, Alice Paul, embarked on a hunger strike, they tied her to a chair, forced a tube down her throat and poured liquid into her until she vomited. She was tortured like this for weeks
until word was smuggled out to the press.
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/collections/suffrage/nwp/prisoners.pdf

So, refresh my memory. Some women won't vote this year because-
-why, exactly? We have carpool duties? We have to get to work?
Our vote doesn't matter? It's raining?

Last week, I went to a sparsely attended screening of HBO's new
movie 'Iron Jawed Angels.' It is a graphic depiction of the battle
these women waged so that I could pull the curtain at the polling
booth and have my say. I am ashamed to say I needed the reminder.

All these years later, voter registration is still my passion. But the
actual act of voting had become less personal for me, more rote.
Frankly, voting often felt more like an obligation than a privilege.
Sometimes it was inconvenient.

My friend Wendy, who is my age and studied women's history,
saw the HBO movie, too. When she stopped by my desk to talk
about it, she looked angry. She was--with herself. 'One thought
kept coming back to me as I watched that movie,' she said.
'What would those women think of the way I use, or don't use,
my right to vote? All of us take it for granted now, not just
younger women, but those of us who did seek to learn.' The
right to vote, she said, had become valuable to her 'all over again.'

HBO released the movie on video and DVD . I wish all history,
social studies and government teachers would include the movie in
their curriculum I want it shown on Bunco night, too, and anywhere
else women gather. I realize this isn't our usual idea of socializing,
but we are not voting in the numbers that we should be, and I think
a little shock therapy is in order.

It is jarring to watch Woodrow Wilson and his cronies try to persuade a psychiatrist to declare Alice Paul insane so that she could be permanently institutionalized. And it is inspiring to watch the doctor refuse. Alice Paul was strong, he said, and brave. That didn't make her crazy.

The doctor admonished the men: 'Courage in women is often mistaken for insanity.'

We need to get out and vote and use this right that was fought so
hard for by these very courageous women. Whether you vote democratic, republican or independent party - remember to vote..

History is being made

One last Fling!

2008-08-31T09:35:00.000-07:00

So we promised the kids we would do something fun to end the summer this weekend. But the question was how to fit it in to this busy, busy weekend. Friday night was there school picnic, which was fun, but a little to school like. Then Saturday my Mom and I threw a bridal shower for my best friend from high school, Tammy (okay more like grade school.) We planned to take them to Seven Peaks on Monday, but then found out there was a huge storm expected Sunday/Monday. So we took them Saturday afternoon. We had a blast! We took the Hamberlin Kids with us (Hunter, Jade and Denver) Gunner and Hunter pretty much did there own thing. I tend to forget that Gunner is at the age, were maybe he doesn't want mom and dad hovering so much! Gavin and Cory were buds and did EVERYTHING, including the boomerang and the "toilet" as Gavin called it. So that left me, Taya, Jade & Gavin to do a few of the tamer things. I could barely get Taya on the tadpole area. So that nixed any of the slide for her. But we had so much fun, we will definitely be buying season passes next year, and getting the kids in some swim lessons.

First Day of School

2008-08-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

I am free!! Wednesday was the first day of school. After much debate, Cory and I decided to keep them in the charter school, Freedom Academy the boys attended last year. Gunner went into 4th. Gavin went into 1st and Taya started full day Kindergarten. I admit, I was a wreck when Cory and I took them to school. It was hard to watch them walk away and think that they really were all so big! It was really hard to let Taya go, cause she is so tiny and sweet. I worry about her alot more than the other two. They did great. Gavin has several of his friends from last year and I feel bad for Mrs. Frey, his teacher, she has no idea what she has gotten herself into! Gunner has a cute teacher. She is a bit young, and I will not even attempt to spell her name, cause I will butcher it! Gunner calls her Miss Cilantro. Taya has the same teacher Gavin had last year, who is awesome! So I know she will do great!
A cute side story, the kids were visiting their Nana. Nana asked how the first day of school was. They were telling her all about it when Nana asked Taya if she was the smallest one in her class, with out even hesitating Gunner says; "she's not the smallest, but she sure is the cutest!" It reminded me of when she was born and he was staring in the NICU window at her, he turns to his Nana and says "Isn't she precious!"

Employeed again!

2008-07-27T18:16:00.000-07:00

I am now, again, on the employeed list! I just got a job with Traco Manufacturing in Orem. I am there new receptionist. I am excited about it, they seem like a great company to work for! While I have enjoyed my three weeks off, I was getting on the bored side. The kids all start school in three weeks, so I was worried that I was going to be here, alone, bored...not to mention broke, trying to buy their uniforms! So It worked out good! If you made it to the BBQ, we hope you had fun...we enjoyed it, and plan on making it a yearly thing..hopefully next time the wind won't kick up next time!

Happy Birthday

2008-07-13T19:04:00.000-07:00

Gunner turns 9 tomorrow! I can't believe he is that old! He is going in to 4th grade. Wow! It just doesn't seem that he should be able to do that yet. I guess that if Taya is going to kindergarten, then Gunner has to be older then that! But wow! He asked for a fish tank. We got him one that fits in his room on his desk. I will be taking him, first thing in the morning to get fish.

I have started scrapbooking again. I have not scrapped since Die Cuts. But I finally broke out the adhesive and the straight edge cutter (cause I couldn't cut a straight line if my life depended on it!) It was fun! It was nice to get back into it and not have some one tell me how bad I suck!

The 4th was intresting! But fun. Hope you all had some fun too! As you can tell from the photo, Gavin had a lot of fun, but give Gavy a rib and he is in heaven.

The start!

2008-06-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

So Cory started the new job today. He was a bit nervous. He had to pass a background check. I said there was nothing on his background, but he was worried about a traffic violation on there from last year. I said everyone has some sort of traffic violation. He got to work this morning and was sent home!....because the back ground check had not come through. They have a strict policy that no one can work there with out a back ground check. But they called this afternoon and said everything looked great! He thinks he is going to enjoy it alot more than Nature's Way, it is way more in tune with what he knows...construction.

2008-06-06T18:19:00.000-07:00

So Cory Interviewed for the Contempo Tile job today. He felt the interview went really well! And sure enough he was not home even an hour when they called and offered him the job. They wanted him bad enough they even offered a lot more money than he is making now. He will be working directly with contractors and he gets day hours! I am so excited! He will be off at 2:30, just in time to pick up the kids when school starts! Now the question is what to do with the kids for the next two months? That is what we are trying to work out now.

2008-06-05T18:44:00.001-07:00

The last two weeks have been long and fun! We spent three nice days in Park City at Cory's parents timeshare. We swam and I bought all the kids summer clothes at the outlet stores there. We were home for two days and then went to St. George. We spent two days with Teisha and Johnny. Then we went to a Allen family reunion. It was so fun seeing all the cousions I have not seen in awhile. I can't believe how big all their kids are getting. Then when we got home all 3 kids came down with tonsolitis. Poor things! Lucky Gunner only had to miss one day of school. His official last day of school is tomorrow, which I know he is excited about. Cory is being interviewed for a new job, that would be days!! Yes I am a little excited to have him join me in the crazy evenings, just for a little help! Taya was interviewed for kindergarten and more than likely will go to full days kindergarten, or so we hope!

Home at last!

2008-05-22T09:45:00.000-07:00

Okay, so Gunner was not faking! About 8:00 on wed. night he asked to go to the doctor. It must be bad if he WANTS to go to the doctor. The Doctor felt he was sick enough. (because I don't want to embarass Gunner, I won't say more than that he was having some stomache problems) to be admited into the hospital. He had to have an IV...he didn't even flinch while the nurse fished around for 15 minutes for the vain that disapperead. He also had to have a tube down the nose...which was not nearly as easy. He was there for a little over 24 hours, but it sure felt a lot longer! And when you added in one bad night complicated by the "bed" they provided me with, we were both glad to come home late last night! He is fine, no complications, just some follow up next week.

Being sick?

2008-05-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

Okay if I don't post this now, while the kids aren't looking, I might not get a chance! Today has been rather hectic.

Story of the day: Taya had a dentist appointment this morning. Because she is so young and there was lots of work to do (a root canal and 2 caps) they decided to it under sedation. So she was not allowed to eat and drink after midnight. No one wants to get between Taya and her cereal. It's just a bad idea. I told her last night she was not going to get any cereal in the morning, just to kind of prepare her, hoping it might be a little easier in the morning. Not so much! She wanted dentist first thing, just like always. So after refusing her, repeatedly, she sat on the couch and pouted. Gunner woke up with a stomache bug, my punishment for letting him stay home yesterday. Now, Gunner sick, is not like a normal kid sick, if you ask Gunner it is 100 times worse then anyone elses illnesses. The kid is a drama king! So now I have Taya pouting and Gunner sicker than a dog. This makes Gavin feel, left out? So he says he has tummy ache. Can I say frustration! I tell Gavin, go to school, if you are still sick in an hour call me I will come get you. He wasn't happy, but school is almost out and I have not heard from him. But he says I'm the meansest mom. So back to Taya at 8:30 I have to give her a Vallium. Not fun, forcing that bitter pill into a cereal deprived little girl. But then she was fine...and so giggly. Everything was so funny. But that was nothing compared to the shot that they gave her once they got there. She cried and then all the sudden...asleep. Which is where she is now. But her teeth look so much better. I even got Gunner to take a nap. So this is what peace and quite feels like. I'll post a picture of the new teeth as soon as she dosen't look like a drugged princess. Have a happy day!

Getting Started

2008-05-19T14:18:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am taking a page from Lyndsy's book and trying this fancy new fangled thing you "youngsters" call a blog! If I make a blogging faux pas, forgive me, or better yet just stop reading this!

Story of the day: I woke up late this morning. In my rush to get going, I shook Gunner and Gavin awake. Now, normally, this is not that big of deal, but they did get a lot less sleep than they normally get this weekend. Gavy happily plopped into the bathroom, to start the daily ritual of getting the perfect faux hawk, that is just coll enough, but not over the top enough, to get him in trouble at school. I went back to my room to get ready. When I emerged 25 minutes later, Gavin was down stairs, all ready...Gunner was in bed, asleep, with the pillow and blanket over his head!! AHH! I was already running way late, so I pulled the blanket of him and told the little punk to get dressed! That was the last straw for Gunner! I have not seen him throw that type of a fit since he was in kindergarten! I was about to tell him to quite whining and get a move on, when it dawned on me, every once in a while you just need to play hooky and have a day where you indulge yourself! Which, for Gunner, the best way to indulge is to stay in your jammies and socks and do nothing but play video games and eat little snickers bars all day! So I told him that. You should have seen the look on his face! I am sure that was the last thing that he thought he would hear me say! But it worked. When I came home for work, the kid was totally calm and oh so happy! So I guess the lesson of the day is, its ok every once in awhile to take a break from everything and have some fun!