Holdman Family

2011-11-30T19:14:00.002-07:00

This is my incredibly cute smart nerdy brother Doug. I adore him and so do my kids.

This is Cari, his cute girlfriend. I don't know her very well, but I adore her too......because she wants to marry my cute smart nerdy brother.

I'm really happy for them both. And their getting married the day before our wedding anniversary. So I would take that as "they love us most!" :)

By the way i stole these pictures from their blog without asking, but don't tell......

Carving pumpkins

2011-10-25T13:17:00.004-06:00

Last night for family night we carved pumpkins and made yummy baked pumpkin seeds. We had lots of fun, although don't ask the kids to admit it, it's like pulling teeth!

Canyon my little comedian showing his crazy side. Yes that is a deadly sharp knife....

Posing for mom.

Showing off the creations. We have love and vans in our world.

Ridge of course wanted a picture of his pumpkin, he couldn't have been more excited. I wish they were all this easy to please...lol

Aspen and her creativity

2011-08-02T07:12:00.002-06:00

Aspen has such a creative spirit. She is always amazing me with the things she makes. This is what "mom can I make cup cakes" turned out to be.

Alligator cupcakes.

Silly Ridge

2011-08-01T21:19:00.000-06:00

Ridge is constantly coming up with crazy things to say and a day or two goes by, and then I've forgotten them, so I'm trying better to document them more often, so well, we can laugh our heads off when he's older. Some of his recent ones:

He told me that Patrick and Sponge Bob sing this song: Idiot friends, dah dah. Idiot friends dah dah. I said well thats not very nice and he said, but mom it makes them happy!

He was on a visit at our next door Neighbor, who has a second home here She invited him for a treat and then turned on the TV in her bedroom for him while she was working on something. He looked over at her while laying on the bed and said: I'm not sleeping the night you know? She was crying it was so funny.....

Another time she took him for ice cream at the Dairy Keen and he informed her that he still loves his mom more! LOL

Ridge told me to get him something and I told him he wasn't allowed to boss me around. I told him I was not his slave, and he said: Yes you are! I should have seen that one coming.

Here mom, here is a special treat! (hands me his vegetable)

Sacoya asked Ridge what happened to the clouds, and he said that Jesus ate them up!

He asked Sacoya if she like "hot boys", she laughed and said yes, Ridge, do you? He said no silly, I only like "HOT Girls!!!

Wow! look at that Rainbow, it goes all the way to Park City!

Thomas the Train

2011-06-09T07:02:00.005-06:00

Every year, Thomas the Train comes to our town. This year we decided to take Ridge and his cousin Beck. It is totally commercialized, total hype. But the boys didn't care. They wanted to see Thomas, take the three minute train ride, buy a toy ten times the original price and buy cotton candy. I'm sure glad we did!

trip to the ZOO

2011-05-17T09:05:00.005-06:00

We took a trip to the Zoo a couple weeks ago with some of Willies family. They have a new dinosaur exhibit. The weather was just about perfect.

Cousin Sierra helping with the new Utahceratops

Ridge enjoying the show

Train ride.
Mom and Ridge with a dinosaur. Ridge was pretty freaked out by him, but you wouldn't know it by that smile!

Sacoya And Cousin TJ being eaten by a lion :)

Sacoya and Canyon with the Elephants.

SCARY!

Ok, well not that scary.

Riding the animals.

To much fun.

Grandpa.

Grandma.

It was a fun day, Aspen was there too, not sure why she was left out of the pictures, o and of course Willie, he was behind the camera. Surprise :)

We opened a cute little shop.....

2011-04-14T14:23:00.003-06:00

I know it's been forever since I posted, but it seems I run around crazy lately trying to balance home, family and and my growing little jewelry business. And now I'm happy to announce that Willie and I have opened a little shop. So cute, a little crazy I know. I'm not super excited about the going to work part of it. I haven't worked in like 14 years. We didn't have a single customer last night. But we haven't done any advertising yet and it was only our second day. We will have a grand opening in May. Hopefully it picks up enough this summer, we can hire some help and I won't have to be there always :)

This is the front! We need flowers, I know, but technically it's still winter here! I mean we've had snow 3 mornings this week! Snake Creek Grill is just to the right of us. They are a pretty established restaurant, and get a lot of Park City/Deer Valley tourist. So that's a big plus.

Inside shot of my jewelry.

Inside shot of Willies photos!

So make a trip up to Heber and come see us! We are open Wednesday-Saturday nights.

Who is ST Patrick?

2011-03-17T10:14:00.002-06:00

My 4th child Ridge is killing me. Seriously the things that come out of his mouth sometimes leave me laughing in the floor. Today he wanted to go see St. Patrick. No matter what I did to try to explain what this holiday was about he insisted on seeing "Patrick" I finally told him to go ask his dad. Well his dad explained that St Patrick died a long time ago and that we couldn't go see him. When he returned upstairs he then he asked me "Is Sponge Bob dead too?" Gotta love that kid..........

Duct tape

2011-03-04T12:51:00.003-07:00

Did you know they have colored duct tape! Yes, lots of it. And it's not for taping things together or repairing stuff. It's for fashion apparently.

Aspen has been making all kinds of things with it for months. Wallets, bracelets, hair bows, rings, shoes, and now skirts. I'm thinking I don't have to buy her anything but duct tape for clothing now. Only I'm not really sure it is saving me money. It actually might be more expensive. But hey, it's all about creativity right?

Off to school to show off her new skirt. She can't sit down in it, so I'm sure it will be an entertaining day! I'm sure her teachers loves me!

SAD

2011-02-26T08:10:00.002-07:00

I think I have this, every year about Mid January I start feeling so not like myself. I can't seem to kick that feeling of despair. I'm always so anxious for the trees to start blooming. It's overwhelming.

Seasonal affective disorder (also called SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at the same time every year. If you're like most people with seasonal affective disorder, your symptoms start in the fall and may continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody.

Symptoms usually build up gradually in the late autumn and winter months.

Afternoon slumps with decreased energy and concentration
Increased appetite with weight gain
Increased sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness
Lack of energy and loss of interest in work or other activities
Slow, sluggish, lethargic movement
Social withdrawal
Unhappiness and irritability

I have all of these. Wondering how common it is. I feel like I could sweep this under the rug and pretend I'm fine. I usually do. But knowledge is power right? Next year I can be prepared to ask my doctor for help to see if I can skip this crappy mood.

Mother Nature won't you please bring spring early this year.

Not so happy skiier

2011-02-25T06:55:00.005-07:00

This outdoor kid somehow really hasn't enjoyed skiing. Last year he wouldn't even stand up, just kept putting his legs limp. This year he was so excited to go, then after the first run he was ready to go home. Silly boy. We asked him if he wanted to ski again? He ran and hid. Maybe he is a bit more like his mommy. Sorry daddy......

Not so happy little skier. At least he looks adorable.

Happy Birthday Baby

2011-01-08T15:42:00.003-07:00

Happy Birthday to our baby, who really is not a baby anymore. Big 4. It's hard to believe. We love you and are so happy you bring the wild, the sweet, the crazy, the laughs to our family..... You are amazingly animated and interested in the "big" things. I guess thats what happens when you have older siblings who teach you everything you know.

Happy Anniversary

2011-01-03T12:18:00.004-07:00

Sixteen years ago today, we started this journey. A journey to forever. It hasn't been easy, we've struggled, but has all been worth it. We have a beautiful family and most of all we still have each other. Love you.

Hope

2010-12-21T15:18:00.003-07:00

This is a painting of the Saviour in a local church building that burned to the ground. Literally. It gives me hope and peace. It's a reminder to me that amongst the chaos and challenges of life, there is a Saviour who is there for us, if we will but follow him.

A classic

2010-12-13T06:33:00.001-07:00

Love this photo. We all have one like this of ourselves. Poor baby :)

2010-12-09T09:38:00.006-07:00

This is my sister-in-laws new shop, check it out. Such cute things.
click here

Santa

2010-12-08T20:24:00.002-07:00

This is the first year Ridge has been excited about Santa :) At our ward Christmas breakfast he was so excited he kept asking and asking when he was coming. Then he asked me "do I get to see mrs., mrs., mrs., ya know Santa's girlfriend". I rolled. This kid cracks me up. He told santa he wanted a potato head santa for Christmas. I hope he can deliver.

Reindeer

2010-11-30T09:39:00.005-07:00

Last night i opened the front door to unplug Christmas lights and i was greeted by a large deer, only feet from me. We were both a little startled. They love eating our bushes, darn-it. Anyways, rather than running off, he (or she) locked eyes with me and stood quiet. It's a little scary to be so close to a deer. Then sweet little Ridge walked up and loudly said. "HI REINDEER". Of course the deer then ran off. Sacoya and I just burst out laughing. I don't know why it was so funny, but we got a chuckle out of it. :) Now he insists on seeing Santa with his Reindeer and sleigh. Not sure how to pull that one off.

halloween a little late

2010-11-23T15:30:00.003-07:00

I'm a little late but hey. Here are my "scary kids" Gone are the days when we all have homemade matching costumes. I guess that's what happens when your kids grow older!!

Even my baby (who is really not a baby) picked his own costume. I really don't blame him. Even though he is suppose to be scary, he's still pretty dang cute :)

Cinnamon Rolls

2010-11-12T06:52:00.003-07:00

I'm not a huge fan of cinnamon rolls. But as I passed these at Costco yesterday, they caught my eye. I remember my sister-in-law mentioning their goodness. i couldn't resist. Well let me just say: DONT BUY THEM!!!! You'll hate their ooey gooey goodness. Their to die for cream cheese frosting. Their not doughy centers. And their caramel underside. You'll hate yourself for loving them so much, you might just eat the whole pan :)

Smart Car?

2010-10-26T13:15:00.001-06:00

I was at Costco the other day and I saw one of these Smart cars. At first I was like wow that's crazy small. And then I thought why is it at costco, I mean what could they really fit in there? And then I noticed a car seat crammed in the front passenger side. I felt mad. I mean why would they put a baby or toddler in there? Could it be worth the risk?

Seriously? This is a smart car. Maybe in Europe where it's considered an average size car, but out on the rode next to this:

or this:
You wouldn't have a chance in a accident.

I really wonder some times in the name of the "Environment" if we go to far?

New Ride

2010-10-10T10:17:00.004-06:00

My new ride. A birthday present from Willie. Super excited. Sad it's getting cold and I'll have to store it away soon. All I need now is cute basket in front. You know to hold important stuff. Like my drink form the gas station :)

I'm a lady....

2010-10-05T07:45:00.000-06:00

The other night when I was putting Ridge to bed, he was reminding me I was a girl and he was a boy. (as he often points out) Then he said, Mom, you're a LADY......i smiled and said you are right! Love that child :)

A-give-away

2010-10-01T19:08:00.002-06:00

I'm doing a give-way on my Jewelry site daisymedesigns in case you were interested :)

Happy Birthday Canyon

2010-09-30T12:33:00.002-06:00

My boy is 10! I can hardly believe it. He really is such a handsome, smart, funny, and sarcastic BOY! We love him and are grateful he is ours.

Favorite thing to watch

2010-09-15T10:36:00.002-06:00

This movie (mini series) is my favorite right now! I love it and want to watch it over and over again.

First Day of School

2010-09-12T16:42:00.002-06:00

Three kids in school, three different schools, three different drop off, pick up times. Thankfully they are all loving it.

Sacoya 8th grade at the Jr high. Seriously can't believe she will be in High school next year. How does that happen?

Aspen 6th grade at the middle school. she is loving it and meeting lots of new friends.

Canyon 4th grade at the charter school. Has his first male teacher. He so loves that. Can't wait for the ski season to start. Already been on two field trips. Gotta love those outdoorsy charters.

Potty Training Day 1

2010-09-06T20:59:00.002-06:00

Accidents-0
Trips to the toilet-0
Watered trees-5
Happy mama-priceless

Mr Mischief

2010-08-26T17:54:00.003-06:00

Now before you go and blame Ridge for being so bad, you must know that, well, I'm not stupid. I know that I was risking some kind of disaster when I told him to go wash his hands. But in the mist of other things going on, a mom can hope that her child will do just as he is told. And I thought maybe a short amount of play time in the sink could be harmless......

I was wrong, that little stinker. And although the pictures don't show so well, he sprayed the windows and floor in hopes of helping me clean I am sure :)

Oh and by the way, I do loan him out on occasion if your interested.

Random photos

2010-08-03T16:05:00.001-06:00

I have a bunch of photos I thought I would share. Cause i want to, and I know your all dying to see them :). Ok well it doesn't hurt to wishful think.

These are some beautiful lilies my neighbor who has a second home here brought me. I couldn't wait for them to bloom. They remind me of my grandma, my Neenie. Not because they were her favorite flower, but because one of her favorite songs was "Consider the Lilies". A family friend sang it at her funeral. I'll never hear that song again and not have my grandma in my heart.

This pile of fabrics, I want to get to, cut up, finish, sew. But it continues to occupy my shelf, waiting patiently, much more patiently than me.....

I actually have a son old enough to mow the lawn...I never thought the day would come. My toes are no longer stained green all summer long. The joy, the freedom.

This toothless smile, melts my heart, or is that boils my blood. I can't remember.....

Just because you buy 30 pairs of character underwear, doesn't mean your three year old will want to wear them. Who knew!

Broken, seriously, I'm that stupid I have to put a sign up. Yep, it's true. And I still tried to use this thing, even with the sign up. (just call me retard) Luckily, Willie took it out and let Canyon take it apart, wait I don't think I liked that part. A new one should be arriving shortly and not a minute too soon.

3 weeks

2010-07-29T15:18:00.002-06:00

It's been three weeks since I posted, sorry. I've been keeping up with my Jewelry blog, making and posting lots of fun stuff, but every time I seem to have a topic for our family blog, I get distracted. I have a file of random pictures I want to post so hopefully I can get to that soon. Summer is coming to a head. Sacoya is leaving to her cousins on Monday for 10 days. We have a family trip planned, the Park City festival coming up for Willie and a 1/2 marathon for me. Then school starts (yea.) I'm ready to get back to a schedule. Not so happy about homework and packing lunches everyday, but having some free time. The kind which still involves a three year old but still. Then maybe I can get to the potty training he desperately needs but refuses to do. (ok so I'm the one who needs it) and some sewing projects I've been putting off. And that stack of leather scraps I just ordered, and those new recipes I want to try. Or at least catch up on all the episodes of "Cake boss" and "Say yes to the dress" that I've missed.

passing by..

2010-07-08T16:32:00.004-06:00

Summer seems to be passing by awfully quickly. I haven't spent much time blogging, mostly because I spend my spare time making Jewelry these days :). Yesterday though, we had our second encounter with a tick. First it was Aspen, now Canyon. Not sure if it's a bad year for ticks or we just got lucky, but I do know this: Every time I feel something crawling or itchy on me, I kinda freak out. I don't like bugs. I'm just saying.

This is the tick on canyon, He was attached like super glue.

This is the one on Aspens back, he must have been there a while.

Question of the day!!!!!!

2010-06-26T17:19:00.002-06:00

After Ridge's shower, he likes to watch a show bundled up in his towel before he gets dressed, so this morning he came running into my studio and said: Mom what's wrong with my "THING" it's really hard. Ummm well ummmm where is your dad....... I'm not equipped for questions of that nature. I'm just saying.

Catching up

2010-06-25T12:03:00.000-06:00

Paper crafting has always been a favorite pass time. And although I still enjoy it, it has taken a back seat to Jewelry design, a very back seat. I was getting very low on cards for birthdays and such, so I spent some time recently making cards and finishing some pages I've been working on for months. I thought I'd share:

Cards were so easy, they all have the same basic idea, but with different papers or page elements. Love a quick and easy card.

A camping we will go

2010-06-04T09:04:00.003-06:00

I think most people who know me, know I don't love to camp. Not even a little. Growing up we car camped and my mom made gourmet breakfast. And then we packed up and left. I only had to miss the comfort of home for minutes really. On the other hand I think most of you who know Willie, know that he loves camping. In fact love is probably not a strong enough word.

Below is an image of an actual camp trip he took. No tent, no protection from bugs, snakes, wild animals, axe murderers. I mean really. I might have had an anxiety attack sleeping like that.

If I am forced to brave the elements, this would be my ideal camp site. It's not asking to much is it?

The problem is, while Willie has come to terms with this fact, the Bishop of my ward obviously has not, as he saw fit to call me to girls camp this year. In tents no less. When I suggested the Marriot in Salt Lake, I was laughed at. When I stated I had a bad back, I was offered a pad for my sleeping bag. Seriously, can I survive, will I survive? At least I don't have to pee in a hole.....or do I?

Worms are so good to eat.....

2010-05-27T13:13:00.004-06:00

Our little Canyon, what a character he is. On Mothers Day my brother Doug dared Him to eat a worm, or should I say bribed him with $5 bucks. I'll tell you he doesn't get that from me, cause I wouldn't eat that thing for $100 bucks. So if you want a little gross in your day, watch this: (you can tell by me in the background that I was way more excited about the yummy dip than anything else going on)

Not so little anymore....

2010-05-18T10:58:00.000-06:00

My little girl, what happened. She just seems to be growing up faster each week. You always hear they grow up too fast, but then your stuck in the terrible two's and it just doesn't seem possible. Then all of a sudden they're asking if they can hang out with their friends and get dropped off at the mall.

And then comes the make-up thing. I look at her and just smile cause she has no idea how beautiful she looks. She wants to ruin that with make-up. She gets to wear mascara and lip gloss. And still she insists she's the only girl in America her age not allowed to wear make-up.

She's borrowing my razor, asking what to use to wash her face, wearing my sweatpants and shirts. Seriously. How does this happen.

But the one that threw me over the edge, was when she asked this week for me to buy her some "self tanner", huh, is all I could muster.

I know I can't stop it, I know I might actually love it once she gets past that teenage thing, but right now I'm wishing for that magic wand that could take me back to baby gap size 2T.

A favorite....

2010-05-13T11:26:00.002-06:00

Just thought I'd share a favorite. I keep saying I'm going to, but then never do. So here we go. I'm only fanatical about a few things. Like socks. I have to have good socks. And lots of them. If I find a pair I love I buy dozens of them. Another thing I'm crazy about is a good writing pen. I hate squeaky thin pens. Like bic. My house is full of them cause there cheap, but I won't write with them.

A few years ago I ran into this baby by Paper Mate. It's called "Profile". It's smooth, it's fat (that's a good thing), it doesn't smear.I hoard them. I have them in my purse, my nightstand, my office, my car. I hate to admit I don't like to share them. If someone is using one, I steal it back the first chance I get. Not because I don't like to share, but what if I need it? What if I can't find one? I told you, I'm fanatical. I don't even know what that means, but it sounds about right........

Go buy some, you won't regret it....if you do, you can always give them to me :)

Houston, we have a problem.....

2010-05-07T12:21:00.002-06:00

Have I neglected you, did I ignore your email, did I forget to call you back, did I skip our lunch date, or forget to fold your laundry? Did I even wash your laundry? (I can't remember :0). There is a good explanation, jewelry. I've been making it all day, in my sleep, at three in the morning. All in the name of the Tulip Festival which by the way got rained, no, snowed out.

And so my sweet friend Brooke threw me a last minute open house. And it was such a huge blessing in disguise. It more than made up for my snowed out show x10. And because I sold so much, I had to stay up all night for two additional days making more for another party the same week. I'm so grateful. I've had a lot of support from friends and from Willie and my kids.

So, yes I have been busy, but not because I don't love you all, it's because of my passion for beads. So forgive me. And I'm back on track, all caught up. At least until my next show :)

Yard work

2010-04-26T11:00:00.002-06:00

It's that time of year, when you actually start caring what your yard looks like. Most of the bark in our front had blown away. So we got a butt-load delivered. And then we let Ridge do all the work. He's half way done in this photo, didn't he do a great job :).........

My quilt

2010-04-18T18:55:00.003-06:00

Thought I would share this beautiful quilt my friend Sha Ree made me. She makes amazing quilts and I told her I had childhood memories of a denim quilt with pockets my moms friend made us. We used to fight over it. Next thing I knew I had this quilt and a beautiful letter to go with it. Thanks Sha Ree, I love it.

Opps....

2010-04-18T18:53:00.003-06:00

I think I may have waited to late to put him to bed. I walked in a saw him just "hanging" there on the couch..... :)

The Big Boat

2010-03-18T13:48:00.019-06:00

Willie and I recently went on a week long cruise to the Mexican Rivera. Great time, good food, a running track. We had a really good time. This was our first cruise, hopefully not our last. I guess you could say it was celebrating our 15 year anniversary. That's no easy task. Willie's brother Richard and his wife Jodie went with us, well technically we went with them.

I call it the big boat for two reasons: first it is a big boat. I was blown away when we first pulled up to it. I think it would take up my whole block if it parked out front of my house. And second, Since we got home Ridge keeps saying he wants to go on the "BIG boat".

Here is a run down of the trip:

Big boat, enough said.

Another shot of the Big boat.

This was the first morning before we set sail. Jodie and I taking it all in.

A shot of the outdoor pool area. This boat holds 3400 passengers and 1200 crew members. I think that's bigger than the town I live in.

Enjoying the sunshine. Not missing the snow at home whatsoever.

The boat had some amazing things to do, Here is a shot of willie rock climbing. Go baby go. Of course he had to take the hardest path up.

The boat had a golf coarse. It was kinda a challenge with the waves and the motion of the boat. They also had inline skating, but we never gave that a try.

We did hit the ice skating rink. It was small, but still kinda fun. The skates were painful though. The ice show they had was amazing. It put the olympic athletes almost to shame. They were that good.

Willie off the deck in Cabo. We went to "Lover's Beach". Can't tell you what happened there. You'll just have to go there to find out.

Our first Formal night. It was crazy how dressed up some people got. I only brought one formal outfit, so I had to wear the same dress twice, next time I'll know. :)

This was a boat ride we took. Kinda fun. We saved ourselves about $100 finding our own ride after we got to the port.

Just a fun shot at sunset.

Doesn't get any better than this.

In Puerto Vallarta we did a Zip line tour. It was pretty fun. Except they painted our faces. Some how Willie got out of it. We did about 12 different lines. It was awesome.

After the zip line Willie jumped in the freezing water. Pretty fun, pretty cold.

The Zip line was at an old moving set for Arnold Schwarzenegger movie "The Predator". I think it was made in the 1980's. Never saw it, but I guess now I should.

This is a shot of Richard, Jodie and I shopping the markets in Mazatlan. Not much but junk to buy, but I did get some Mexican vanilla.

We hung out on the beach after shopping, but we couldn't escape the venders. Even the kids were playing on the tourists. We had a little boy come up and sing a song with his little toy guitar. His sister stood next to him holding out a cup. Kinda cute, and sneaky. Yes I folded and gave them a dollar.

Big Boat continued.....

2010-03-18T13:11:00.011-06:00

Willie and Richard playing in the waves in Cabo. Waves were pretty big, Jodie totally got taken out, lost her glasses, earring, and hair band. Willie lost his wedding ring. He didn't even realize it tell later.

Every night our room attendant would make these towel animals. It wasn't always apparent what they were, but it always made us smile.

This was one of my favorites, the monkey. We had to take him down before we slept though. I didn't want to wake up and be scared to death :).

Enjoying the sunset every night was awesome. There is something about the ocean and a beautiful sunset that is magical.

This was one of our "Formal nights" where you get to dress up for dinner. Kinda fun.

The boat had a wedding chapel on the 15th floor (yes there were 15 floors on this boat). We were goofing off.

This was our last night, we took a photo with our waiters. They served us every night and were a fun group. Every time he tried to sell the Lamb dish he would make us laugh. He kinda baaaa(ed) when he presented it. Apparently it was his favorite dish. never sold us on it though.

One of my favorite features was the running track. I ran every morning. It was awesome running on the ocean. The first morning I wore my sports watch and it said I ran 16 miles. More like 4 but since the boat was moving it couldn't keep an accurate chart.

We had some fun clouds and rainbows, of course Willie was happy about that. made for some great photos.

Shot of outside the boat where the pool is. Notice the double rainbow, we never got rained on, but it was raining around us.

Last night shot. It was kinda windy, so my hair was the entertainment. At least that's what Willie thought.

Just a fun shot with the boat life preserver.

We had a great time.It was the perfect trip to catch up on doing nothing. No laundry, no cooking, no cleaning. We could sleep in and still have breakfast. If you haven't been and have the chance, I highly recommend it.

How come.....

2010-03-17T09:10:00.003-06:00

How come some days, you just want to shut the bedroom door, climb under the covers, turn it all off. No more dinner clean up, no more temper tantrums, no more tattle tailing, homework help, jammy time, dishwasher loading, tear wiping, clothes folding, or bedtime kisses........how come.

"Surprise"

2010-03-14T16:35:00.003-06:00

Because Willie and I had a trip planned over Aspen's birthday, we decided to throw her an early "SURPRISE" party. And was she ever surprised. She had no idea. I think she really thought I was a horrible mean mom to be gone for her "birthday". Thankfully I redeemed some of my niceness by throwing her a surprise party. She remembered we really did love her.
In this photo she was in complete shock. It took her a minute to realize, hey these guys are here for me.

Aspen taking her friends for a ride in the elevator. Who knew they could have so much fun going up and down two floors.

Present time.....

and a little dancing.

We had pizza and cake before we headed off for "Jump on It".

Aspen enjoying a little down time, all that jumping can really wear a girl out.

I think the party was a success, everyone seemed to have a great time.

Aspen sure did, wish I could pause time and enjoy her happiness a little longer.

Oh and Canyon's suicide jump....yes, he survived.....barely.

Happy Belated 11th

2010-03-08T11:16:00.004-07:00

Happy Belated Birthday to my sweet, funny, creative, loving, messy girl. My life would not be complete without you. You add just the right spice to our family. Love you and thanks for forgiving me for missing your birthday! I promise I won't leave on vactation again.....well on your birthday. xoxo

makeover

2010-02-27T15:22:00.003-07:00

For Sacoya's birthday we did a room makeover. For about a week, she had to "stay out" while we put everything together. It took some twists and changed a little from my original idea, but it turned out pretty awesome in the end. And she loved it, so happy.

13!

2010-02-25T08:59:00.002-07:00

Happy 13th Birthday Sacoya!

Thirteen? How can that be, how can I be the mom of a teenager? Only just yesterday I brought this tiny perfect angel home. Now she's thirteen. She's beautiful, smart, kind, creative, dependable, a great babysitter, great shopping companion. I couldn't be happier to have such a wonderful daughter. Love you babe.

Ice Cold

2010-02-08T08:47:00.003-07:00

This is what my bedroom looks like right now..........ok well that might be a bit of an stretch, but it feels like it. Our furnace has been out on the main level going on four days now. Can't get those darn furnace repair men to call us back. We have a gas fireplace. It's been running for 72 hours strait and hasn't raised the temperature even one degree. I woke up this morning and it was 59. I went up stairs and it was only 64. I freaked out. The furnace wasn't working up there either. We are going to freeze. That had been the only thing keeping me from going over the edge. The only thing left to do was jump.........I decided to reset the furnace. Jumping might be a little to drastic. I should at least explore my options right? Thankfully it worked. Up stairs is nice and toasting again. Problem is I don't spend time up stairs. My bedroom, my kitchen, my office all in the red zone right now. (i mean blue, ice blue) I'm wearing my ski parka right now as I type. Where are you furnace guys. Don't you know I'm freezing? Please come, before I have to take matters into my own hands........that could be bad. If you see smoke coming out the windows, don't be alarmed......

New Favorite Salsa

2010-02-02T10:40:00.004-07:00

let me first just say that this salsa can in no way replace my dads recipe. for those of you who have had it, you know what i'm taking about. he makes the best homemade salsa ever. problem is, i can't duplicate it. believe me I've tried. it never turns out right, never turns out quite the same. i've had lessons. frustrates me, probably frustrates my dad. i'd all but given up. then i came across this recipe from "the pioneer woman". really like her recipes. so i decided to try it. it's good. yummy. get up in the middle of the night to sneak it, that good. And best of all it calls for canned tomatoes. you can't tell one bit. i hate store bought tomatoes. so unless there garden grown, i'd just soon skip them. try it, i think you'll like it.

Restaurant style Salsa

Ingredients
1 can (28 Ounce) Whole Tomatoes With Juice
2 cans (10 Ounce) Rotel (diced Tomatoes And Green Chilies)
¼ cups Chopped Onion
1 clove Garlic, Minced
1 whole Jalapeno, Quartered And Sliced Thin
¼ teaspoons Sugar
¼ teaspoons Salt
¼ teaspoons Ground Cumin
½ cups Cilantro (more To Taste!)
½ whole Lime Juice

Preparation Instructions:

Combine whole tomatoes, Rotel, onion, jalapeno, garlic, sugar, salt, cumin, lime juice, and cilantro in a blender or food processor. Pulse until you get the salsa to the consistency you’d like—I do about 10 to 15 pulses. Test seasonings with a tortilla chip and adjust as needed.
Refrigerate salsa for at least an hour. (make sure you do this step. it takes a while for the flavors to marinate.)

A Mystery

2010-01-26T12:18:00.002-07:00

New washer broke...
New washer flooded laundry room...
New washer flooded bathroom...
New washer flooded part of basement...
Swore at new washer....
Called repair man for new washer...
Repair man looked at new washer...
Repair man took apart new washer...
Repair man said new washer not broke...
Repair man started new washer, didn't flood...
Repair man left me with not broke new washer...
New washer washing clothes right now, not flooding..

All I have to say is ?????????????

Christmas

2010-01-19T07:31:00.005-07:00

Christmas 2009 was a special year, not because we got lots of gifts or went somewhere special, but because we were together, we can truly understand the gift that was given to us by our Savior, and we realize what really matters, what is most important. Now, on to the pictures:

Kids posing in their Pj's. It's a photo I require every year, unfortunately Ridge would not cooperate, thus he got left out....(I'm sure he'll regret it when he's older and realizes, hey I'm not in that photo)

Santa showed up, but he couldn't fool Ridge. Good thing, he might not have sat on his lap.

Sacoya and I enjoying a quick moment.

Holdman's Christmas tradition is this amazing collection of houses and trains. It grows bigger every year and the kids love it. At our house it's called grandpa's choo choo.

Aspen's favorite gift, her electric scooter. Now she can keep up with me while I'm running....wait maybe it's the other way around.

Sacoya and her new phone, I think she would rather give up a limb than part with it.

Canyon's Christmas list:Legos, what else, Legos, anything else, o ya Legos.

Ridge and his choo choo. Best gift Santa every brought to our house, (except Sacoya's phone of course)

Aspen and Willie at the Thompson house Christmas day.

Sacoya and her cousin Connor exchanging gifts. Stop growing you two, just stop.

And of course no Christmas would be complete without a meal slaved over by my mom for hours, which is consumed by us in minutes, thanks mom.

Toothless

2010-01-16T10:25:00.001-07:00

Love this shot of him on his birthday showing off his toothless grin. Sometimes I worry about that missing tooth, but this photo reminds me that he is still stinkin cute without it!!

Birthday Wishes to our Baby

2010-01-08T07:11:00.004-07:00

Look who's three. It's hard to believe you gotten so big. You will always be our baby. Some of Ridges favorites right now are:

choo choo trains

tractors

dinosaurs

trucks

treats

pop

mickey mouse

"cars" the movie

santa hat

"owie" blankie and bink

Missed You

2010-01-05T10:35:00.003-07:00

I've missed you blog, I'm coming back I promise. Thanks for being so patient with me. :)

Grateful

2009-10-26T04:33:00.015-06:00

Right now it's 4:30 in the morning. I've been suffering from sleep depravation for months now. Well i should say for years on and off, but right now seems to be the worst it has ever been. it's not fun. Knowing you will wake up in the dead of night and be wide awake. Most of the time I just lay in my bed and toss and turn. But lately I've found getting up and doing something for an hour or so helps me get back to sleep quicker. Tonight, (well this morning), i started thinking of all my blessings. My life has not exactly gone the way i pictured it. Some due to my own choices. Some not. But i have never been lacking of blessings. I have the most amazing kids in the world. I miss them when they aren't with me. Not knowing where they are or what they are doing is hard for me, but it makes me all the more glad to be with them when they are home. I'm grateful for a husband who is wants to spend time with them and do fun things with them. I'm grateful for friends who sacrifice to help me in a time of great need, or are just there in case i need them. Friends who send kind words via text message, email or voice mail. Friends who invite me to be with them, so i'm not alone. i am grateful for brothers who i sometimes forget i have, but when it really matters, step up to the task and support me. i have five of them and I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm grateful for temples that seal families and children together forever. To feel that joy and know that no matter what, it will be alright. For the protection we feel when we are there. I'm grateful for parents who never give up, or stop caring, or stop loving, who are probably lying awake worrying about me right now as I type. Grateful to walk into a ward I left a year ago and be embraced as if I never left. Grateful that me body will carry me while I run. It's such a therapeutic time to just be able to think and feel, time that's just for me. Grateful for sister-in-laws who support, understand, and love unconditionally. Grateful most of all for a Savior who suffered what I suffer, who loves me so much, He never gives up or turns away when I fall and stumble. Who shares my joys and my sorrows. Grateful for a Heavenly father that does answer prayers. Who does care that i am happy. Who understands what we need even when we don't. I'm GRATEFUL.

Weighted down no more

2009-10-15T10:18:00.006-06:00

It's funny how we perceive ourselves. I've worked really hard. I've lost 23 lbs. I'm not saying that to brag. Only to prove a point. After all that work, I feel better, I watch what I eat and keep exercising so i don't gain it back, and yet when I look in the mirror I'm not sure what I see looking back at me. Am I thinner, thin enough, still fat, was I ever really fat? I have two scales. I call them the fat scale and the skinny scale. Most likely the fat scale is more accurate. But I always weigh in on the skinny one first. I usually like the number I see. Then I weigh in on the fat scale and it's not so happy I feel. Why do I do this, why does it matter. Does anyone who truly loves me really care if I weigh 134 lbs or 139 lbs? Or the original 160 lbs to start. So today I threw away the skinny scale. I told my weight for the whole world to see, and I feel better.......... I think?

School Projects

2009-10-06T08:13:00.002-06:00

Aspen's first school project this year was on "Watersheds". She had to design something that showed the cycle of water and where it is used in our community. Our little town is a great example of this. Anyway WIllie helped her build this replica of where Aspen would like to live. It turned out awesome. She "blew her teacher's mind" literally. (that's what he wrote on her grade) She of course got an A and even some extra credit. Way to go Aspen.

Jewelry

2009-10-04T13:43:00.006-06:00

I just updated my jewelry website for those of you who have been asking what I have new. Just click here

Happy Birthday Canyon

2009-09-29T10:46:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday Big Guy. Hope you have a great day. We love you so much and are grateful for the fun and crazy you bring to our family.

O joy.

2009-09-24T15:31:00.002-06:00

It's one of the best day's of the year! The bead show, Friday at noon. You'll know where to find me, but i won't be answering my phone. I'll be to busy drooling all over the beautiful beads. O happy day!

Hiking Timp.

2009-09-17T09:28:00.002-06:00

Willie and the kids hiked Timpanogos on Saturday last week. It's a second for Sacoya, first for Aspen and Canyon. 14 miles, not bad for a days play. They all slept good that night. Maybe they should do it every Saturday?

Looks like one of his photos.

I think I see my house!

Good thing they've got peanut butter- just in case!

I cut my hair..

2009-09-17T09:23:00.001-06:00

not drastic, just enough. Feels good for a change, change is good.

Behind

2009-08-26T12:35:00.004-06:00

I'm behind-

Behind on laundry
Behind on cleaning bathrooms
Behind on organizing closets
Behind on making beds
Behind on unpacking Lake powell
Behind on making jewelry
Behind on mopping (ok I'm always behind on this one)
Behind on washing my car

But............ School starts in 6 more days!!!!!!

Enough said.

Race

2009-08-14T14:14:00.004-06:00

Saturday Willie and I ran the Prove half Marathon. I had Several friends also run. My friend Kellie ended up running along side us and her husband and kids followed us to several spots and took pictures.

It was an awesome race. I didn't think I would like as much as I did. All that training paid off.

Here we are on the home stretch. I'm glad I did it, I'm glad all the training is over, and I can't wait until next year to do it again.

new additions

2009-08-06T17:53:00.002-06:00

No were not having twins! We added a new trampoline and a sandbox to our yard. I know that may seen like no big deal, but seriously, it made my week. The kids finally have something to do in this crazy little town and I don't have to chase Ridge down the road near as often!

Hit my Target!

2009-07-25T11:12:00.002-06:00

Yep, it's true. I got on the scale this morning and hit the mark. 18 lbs that is. Gone. Gone forever. Never to return. Had no idea what I was getting into when I started 3 months ago. But I feel great. It wasn't easy, I missed a lot of great dessert, I ran more miles than I ever imagined my legs could take me, I ate chicken and broccoli until my skin turned green and I started baulking, but it was worth it. Ya I still have flab, and stretch marks, and a little pooch on my tummy, But I know I've done part of the work to be a better me. Thanks to all of you who have supported me, who hid their treats from me, who told me I was looking great, or just followed along.

Can't stop

2009-07-20T15:49:00.003-06:00

Can't seem to tear myself away from making Jewelry! It's too much fun.

Harley Trip

2009-07-16T09:16:00.004-06:00

Wanna see what Willies been up to?

click me

Missing her

2009-07-15T15:09:00.005-06:00

Today it has been one year since Ginger left us. I was feeling really sad because I ultimately made the decision when it was time to put her down. I actually had to drive her to her death so to speak. Today the kids and I made chocolate brownies in honor of her. We each had a candle and told what we loved about her and then blew them out. It was sweet. I came across this photo of her taken about a month before she died, and I realized that she was sad, and sick, and miserable. This photo doesn't tell the story of a happy dog. SO instead of feeling sad today, I will remind myself that she is happy and running and playing. That she is free from all the pain she suffered in her short life. And best of all, I'll get to see her again someday.

The mountains were one of her favorite places. We made her a little grave site and visit it sometimes. She woud have loved to have gone there with us!

Losing libs?

2009-07-14T19:08:00.003-06:00

So at dinner tonight the kids were joking about how slow I have been losing weight, I was trying to explain that 17 lbs in 11 weeks was actually pretty fast. Aspen thought it had been 6 months. Then Canyon blurts out, Mom, you should try losing 300 libs, like the women on those magazine covers. It took me a minute, then I realized he thought lbs was pronounced libs. I was laughing so hard, I think I lost another lib!

Girls lunch out

2009-07-13T17:24:00.004-06:00

Today, I took my awesome friend Kellie to lunch for her birthday. It's a fun tradition we started quite a while back and thankfully have continued to do. I decided to take my camera and of course forgot until after desert came, but the waiter was happy to take a photo for us. We went to the amazing Pizzeria 712. We both love that place. We sat out on the patio and were almost the only ones there for quite a while. It was tons of fun and a good chance to catch up. I'm so grateful for good friends.

We had this chocolate pudding which, normally I'm not a big fan of, but this stuff was like chocolate silk. Yum.

Boring!

2009-07-13T16:42:00.007-06:00

I'm pretty boring when it comes to clothes. I really try, but almost always come home with the same style, same color, same jeans. I even buy two or three of the exact same shirt in different colors, like black, brown, and white. So I've recently tried to break out of my solid colored bubble. And to my credit, I have bought a few colored pieces. Yellow, green, and even turquoise. But still boring no pattern clothes. Look at my closet, it's full of nothing but solid tees.

In my whole casual closet, I have two prints. One is brown with small cream polka dots barely visible, the other is a shirt I bought when I was pregnant with Ridge to hide my growing belly, (going in the DI pile today, Scary) I need some serious "boring" clothing intervention.

At least my church wardrobe has a little more excitement in it, but really, I wear black most of the time.

So today after my fun lunch date, Kellie and I went to Ross. I thought it would be a great place to find off the wall cute prints without a lot of price commitment. Start small right? I picked a big pile of prints I really did! This jacket was darling made me look skinny mini. But it's black!!!!!

Next, this cute shirt had the same effect. Waist cinching thinness. (Yes I've been watching too much Stacy and Clinton), but dang this one is black too!!!

Ok, well this one is black, but it's got a print to it, right?

Ok, I really scored with this one, see brown, and green, and cream! Makes up for the other ones, really it does! Ok well 1 out of 4 isn't bad? I know, send the boring police on over. I need help, serious help.

Got Nap?

2009-07-06T12:56:00.002-06:00

Don't you love those Sunday afternoon naps. Canyon is pretty sacked out. Guess we stayed up too late watching fireworks.

New favorite

2009-07-06T12:53:00.002-06:00

My new favorite Jewelry creations! Super cute for summer.

Not a fun place

2009-06-25T10:51:00.003-06:00

Just got back from the laundromat. My new washer came yesterday, I did a little sigh of relief when they brought it through the door. Had my ten thousand loads sorted and ready to go. They hooked it up, plugged it in, turned it on, and out poured water all over my floor. *&%$##!! Yep I said that too. Defective part. Have to wait another week. Do I count this as # 5 or can I pretend this one never existed?

On a happier note.......

Had my First Jewelry party yesterday, it was awesome. Thanks to everyone who came and supported me. I really appreciate it. I had so much fun, can't wait to do it again. Kathy- thanks for hosting it for me, it was perfect.

2009-06-23T12:55:00.007-06:00

After 8 days without a washer things are getting out of control.......

Thankfully, This baby is coming tomorrow. And not a minute too soon. This is my 4th, yes 4th washer.I didn't buy it because it was the most expensive or cheapest, I didn't buy it because it was the sales clerks recommendation, I didn't buy it because it's a famous brand. I bought it strictly on consumer reviews. Out of 117 reviews, 91% recommended it. I hope the people don't let me down. Otherwise I might go into the Guinness book of world record for the most washers purchased in a 14 year span.

Party!

2009-06-22T18:23:00.003-06:00

I'm having a Jewelry Party this Wednesday in my old neighborhood. If you didn't get an invite, and you want to come, email me and I'll give you the details!

Fun at the Lake

2009-06-17T16:56:00.012-06:00

So bare with me cause there are lots of photos but had a hard time narrowing them down. I did leave out a lot!

Sacoya and Shay showing off the boat.

This year we let Sacoya bring a friend (Shaylee). They had a great time together and she was an angel. Shay, you can come with us anywhere.

Ridge playing in the sand, he never got in the water but loved the beach.

My little niece catching a lizard. She loves those things.

This is the famous water slide many of you have heard about. The boys make it every time we go down.

Sacoya trying it out.

Opps, she's gong backwards.

Here is Shay, so happy she loved it.

My sister-in-law Jodie with her son. See that lizard, yep he went flying in the air.

It's really not as scary as I made it look, it's just fun to scream on the way doooown!

Another little niece. She forgot to sit on the tube.

Willies brother Tom and his daughter. Tom likes to catch air

My nephew, I just love that little smile on his face.

Willie on a plateau. It may not appear that high, but if you look closely, ya pretty high up! He had to drill holes in the rock and put up a rope so he could get down.

Willies self portrait.

Most of you know I have been running like a crazy person and eating really well. I'm down 14 lbs. And I thought it was finally paying off. That was until I saw my thighs in this photo. I hate thighs, they are evil. I guess I'm going to have to start lifting weights again. Dangit.

Canyon and his cousin enjoying the tube of death, really it is.

Even though it wasn't very sunny, Sacoya still managed to get sunburned. Ouch.

The making of our sweet little mermaid Aspen.

Doesn't she look cute.

Oh and of course we had to add crush, I mean Canyon, the sea turtle.

We had a great time and can't wait to go back later this summer.

New nephew

2009-06-15T17:23:00.004-06:00

I just got back from a week in Lake Powell (more on that later) and came home to this sweet gift from Heaven. My brother and his wife had there first baby. Oscar. I have yet to actually meet him, but Isn't he sweet. Funny thing, he was born on the same day as my niece Daphne, and my niece Victoria, and my sister-in-law Marin. Wonder what holiday is nine months earlier?

Running the river

2009-06-05T09:00:00.004-06:00

Willie and Canyon ran the Muddy Creek this week, and Richard, (willies brother) took some video. It's kinda long but if you want a good laugh, watch the first minute where Mark, (willies friend) takes a spill. It made me laugh! Clink link below.

muddy creek

2009-05-30T16:15:00.002-06:00

This picture might not seem very exciting, but it means we are almost ready for grass!!!!! Willies been working hard to get the sprinklers in and now we just need to spread out the dirt, pop on the sprinkler heads, and were ready for sod. No more dirt in the house. I promise I won't ask for anything else all summer, except maybe a trampoline, and a swing set and a playhouse, and a garden and a sandbox, and a...........

2009-05-22T09:14:00.003-06:00

Check this out! You can win this cute bike. I stole the idea from my sister-in-law. Now we are in a fight to win it. Well ok maybe I didn't tell her yet. But wouldn't I Look cute riding it around my neighborhood? You can win it too, just click on the link below.

And we all go marching on

2009-05-18T21:51:00.004-06:00

So we've had this little ant problem. I first noticed them coming in the house around the fireplace. They were these tiny little ants, which I've heard people call sugar ants? Anyways, I sprayed bug spray and that was pretty much the end of them. Or so I thought. Then they started crawling around in my bedroom. On my dresser, my bed post and even in the bed with me! I kinda started freaking out, cause I couldn't tell where they were coming from. About a week went by and I had a neighbor call and tell me that cornmeal would kill them. But no such luck. They never even crawled near it. Then on Sunday, I was getting ready for church. I noticed one crawling on my shelf. I was thinking to myself, why are they in my closet, there is no food in here? Then I looked closer and saw several more. I lifted up my clothes and this is what I found!!!!

If you look closely. They are crawling all through that sucker. They must have been there awhile, because they had eaten a good portion of it for how small they are. I had forgotten about hiding that sucker from my little snack boy! I feel ants crawling all over me!!!!

Good week

2009-05-15T18:00:00.004-06:00

It's been a good week here at our house (if you ignore the hourly 2 year old temper tantrums). Kids are getting anxious for school to end. Canyon and Aspen just finished soccer, and Sacoya has her dance recital this weekend. I'm loving the weather. I ran 21 miles this week (YA!) and it's been just cool enough that I don't feel hot while running, but warm enough I don't need a jacket. I've added 2 more pounds to my lost pile, and even though it feels slow, I'm noticing a big difference in my stomach, which was defiantly where I've gained it. I made a good chunk of Jewelry this week and am getting ready to have a Jewelry party soon. I'm super excited about that. Willie is still in China, but will be home middle of next week. Ridge has been asking about daddy at least 20X a day. Everyone is anxious for him to be home. I'm sharing just a few of the things I made this week:

These are fun turquoise and they look great with a t-shirt and jeans.

Cute and only $4

The key to my heart-----

I love these earrings, maybe I should keep them!

Loosing it!

2009-05-07T18:12:00.006-06:00

When we moved here last fall, I stopped running and I started to put on a few pounds. Then a few more. I really felt sad and didn't feel motivated to exercise or eat very well. It's funny that when you need to take care of yourself the very most, you usually choose self neglect. But I've decided to turn the tables. So I've been on this diet where you pretty much eat chicken and broccoli and dry toast and egg whites and fiber or protein bars. It's really not that fun, but to my surprise, it hasn't been that hard to follow. I've certainly had week moments, and even a few slip ups, but after 18 days (2.5 wks) I'm happy to report I've lost 6 lbs. I guess I should include that everyday at 3' clock I drink a glass of 1% chocolate milk. It helps curve my cravings, but still has protein and is relatively low in fat. I'm running about 17 miles a week and it feels so awesome. I'm finally sleeping better than I have in a long time. Sacoya quickly jumped on board and has limited the treats she eats to "one a day". I told her she is perfect just the way she is, but it's fun to see her make wise food choices on her own. For me, it feels different when you are actually choosing because you want to, not because you feel pressure to. I bought this swim suit today, and I'm hoping before summer is over I can actually wear it!

Everest Bound

2009-05-02T08:12:00.003-06:00

Yesterday I drove Willie to the airport, where he would fly to Hong Kong, and then Kathmandu to start his trek to Everest Base camp.

This is base camp where thankfully he will go no further. Elevation approx. 18,000 ft.

These are the native sherpa's that carry most of their gear, and set up camp for them every night. Oh and cook their meals. These guys (women included) are amazingly strong. It is a 19 day trip, 14 of which is hiking, the rest is travel and a day of sightseeing.

I'm excited to see all the photographs of the culture and sights along the way. His sister Tiffany went with him. It's in their blood I tell ya, in their blood!

Fun new stuff

2009-04-30T14:22:00.003-06:00

Been making some fun new stuff for my Etsy store! I think you should all go buy something!

Oh Deer! and Tulips

2009-04-24T09:38:00.007-06:00

I've always loved deer, such graceful beautiful animals. They have adorned our property regularly since we moved here.

I also love Tulips, one of my favorite flowers. When we moved here in the fall, I hurried and planted dozens of them so I would have something to enjoy in the spring.

Well it's spring, and this is what deer+tulips = snack time.

I'm not sure I really like those deer so much anymore!

Scar face

2009-04-20T08:57:00.002-06:00

Saturday night we ended up in the ER for stitches. Ridge decided to dive off the computer station right into an open drawer. Or at least that's what we think happened. It wasn't to big of a deal until they put him under. It was kinda scary to watch him react to the drugs. Because it was on his face, they couldn't have him moving around so they gave him something that more or less paralysis you. It was almost like he was dead, only still breathing. Because he couldn't swallow, they had to suck his saliva for about an hour, until he started to come around and could start swallowing again. He was wacky coming and out of consciousness. The ER staff was really great with him. He was screaming SCARY! SCARY!, so it's probably a good thing they put him under.

Sunday morning it was all a distant memory.

Unless of course you reminded him, then he made sure you knew he had an oweee!

Death Valley

2009-04-16T13:42:00.004-06:00

Sharing some of the pictures of Aspen and Canyon in Death Valley. They went to the dunes and it was a long way up!

Keep going guys.

They made it to the top and were way excited. When they came home, there was sand in every pocket they owned.

Death Valley is 178 feet below sea level, good thing it was April. I think Willie said it only got up to 80 degrees while they were there. It gets up to 125 degrees in the summer, yuck!

They stopped at this old ghost town and saw a lot of cool stuff. Then they realized that people still live there. Population of 27 or something like that.

Lots of the houses had old stuff hanging on them, like this old bike.

It was a fun trip but I'm still glad I was home safe in my house with the snow, (ok well maybe not so happy about the snow).

Quote for the day!

2009-04-15T19:47:00.002-06:00

If fear's what makes us decide our future journey, then I'm not along for the ride!

Fear always seems to hold us back from what we really need and want. Why is that?

Enjoying spring break

2009-04-07T15:27:00.003-06:00

Sacoya, Ridge and I have been home enjoying spring break. WIllie, Aspen and Canyon went off to Death Valley. It would have been nice to all go together, but I don't do places that:
#1 start with death
# 2 Invlove only a tent.
#3 A tree, some toilet paper, and you know what.
Some people may think that I'm wimpy or spoiled, but I just say I'm smart.

Love that the sun has been out all day, it probably won't last, but it lifted my spirits today! Ridge and I ran around in the yard and rode his bike. Now we just need some grass.

Made a really fun Necklace for my Etsy store. I've added a few things this week, but this one by far will be the hardest to part with so far.

Making Jewelry

2009-04-02T15:45:00.004-06:00

So I went to the Salt Lake Gem faire a couple of weeks ago. I was in heaven, wish I could have stayed all day. Making jewelry has quickly gotten out of hand! So I had to open one of these.

My shop

The not so best mailbox on the block

2009-04-01T12:43:00.003-06:00

This is our mailbox,(well it's not our actual mailbox, but you get the drift) and it's a great one at that. You don't have to worry about anyone getting into it, or getting to full if you skip getting the mail for a day or two. In fact, you can go on vacation and no one has to pick up the mail for you. I'm really happy with it. It only has one draw back. IT REQUIRES A KEY!

This is what happens when you've lost both keys, and you try to use your arm to get the mail out of the secured box. I don't know if I will try it again, although I was able to get our mail out! So i guess it's not as secure as I thought, hmm.

Rescue your stainless steel

2009-03-27T09:14:00.003-06:00

This is a little gem I thought I would share with any of you who have stainless steel appliances. I have bought several products over the last few months and pretty much, they all suck. That is until I found this. It doesn't clean, but it polishes like nothing else. Kinda like washing your car. It's the finishing coat. Go buy it, you'll be happy.

Photo of the Week!

2009-03-25T16:33:00.004-06:00

Or maybe the Year! This is such a classic photo, I had to share. Thanks to my sister-in-law Jodie for letting me steal it from her. These are her two children, and I probably don't have to tell you what they were doing! I think the walls and floor faired better than they did. I'm glad I don't have the only child who writes on everything.

Random Picture Day

2009-03-18T15:11:00.005-06:00

This chair goes in my office, it used to have a cream top. I bought it at Target about two years ago with the intention of recovering it. It didn't take my that long did it?

This picture should get me the "BAD MOM AWARD" I let the water get so high, it almost covered him. Although I must say, he didn't seem to mind!

This old bear chair, I said I wouldn't bring you to my new house, but after 5 months without you, I couldn't "Bear" it any longer. You've been with me since the beginning. Maybe I could get you a slipcover.

This was the scene in front of my house a few days ago. Cows on the run. Good thing it wasn't the whole herd of 200. Only a few rebels on the run.

Luckily they picked the empty house next door to damage and leave there "mess" if you know what I mean.

Except this gal, she came after me for a second. Scared the heck out of me. Guess she didn't want her picture taken.

Post card reminder in my car that should have been mailed 8 days ago. Yes, Mara, I am a loser, but it started out as a good intention. Tell Kalli I'm sorry.

Parting shot, Kids with Grandpa T, taking there Sunday lawn mower ride!

Our old house

2009-03-16T09:30:00.003-06:00

I don't really like to call this my old house. It doesn't look old or feel old. But it is where we used to live. Maybe I should call it my favorite house, ya that makes me feel better. I have so many wonderful memories there. Anyways the reason for this post is because a few of you have asked if we sold it, moved back in, etc..., and no to all of those, we just recently rented it to a nice family. So if you see lights on, kids in the yard, and a car in the driveway, no it's not us (don't cry!) it's our renters. Be nice to them, take them cookies, and most of all don't try to scare them away. We need them to pay the rent!