She dreamed she could.... and she did

swapping faces and losing teeth

2012-02-11T16:45:00.000-08:00

Jaxon is turning into a little man right before my very eyes. This morning Jax lost his first tooth. He is so proud of himself. I think it's because most of his friends have lost 5 by now. He can't wait to see what the tooth fairy leaves for him tomorrow morning. I think I will put his tooth in a gLocket! baahaaaaa

Sometimes we drive around town and take pictures of ourselves and send them to Daddy or my Mom

Ivy went to her buddy Sookies 2nd Birthday at The cutest store-bistro ever (Dear Lizzie)

Ross and I swapped faces. Ross looks like a 70 year old waitress at a diner and I looked like my little brother if he just attended a Mary Kay party...

Aunt Char even wanted in on the fun

gLOCKET for her G spot

2012-02-10T14:06:00.001-08:00

Go Jazz

2012-02-09T00:27:00.000-08:00

Ross took Jax to a Jaz game over the weekend. they were accompanied by PaPa Leo and Uncle David. Nobody love the Jazz more than Dave. They were waiting for the elevator with a few Jazz dancers and Uncle dave got so excited that he grabbed one and would not let her go... She was a great sport and apparently had a big impact on my little Jax. Ross said that all the way home he asked strange questions. He asked his dad where the Jazz girls lived... He asked his dad if they could go to their houses and play with them sometime soon.... and he mentioned several times that he really liked pretty girls............

Jaxon and Ross both had a great time at the game. I am thinking about getting season tickets next year for sure. Jaxon can't stop talking about how, "His team won"..... The Jazz girls sealed the deal for this kid.

SUPER BOWL SUNDAY

2012-02-05T22:34:00.000-08:00

Scroll down to see my slow demise into a gluttonous BSU fan

Yes this is Jax and I at Tyler and Jills for the Super Bowl and not at a Boise State game. We did'nt have any Patriots or Giants team gear so I tried to keep the football theme by wearing Boise State get ups because it what I had to work with. They all made fun of us.... We thought we looked cool anyways.

I kept eating Jalapeno Poppers and fried shrimp... This is Shannons prediction of what I will look like at next years party if I continue eating this way for a year. At least the Boise State jersey will still fit...

Ivy dances to "purple rain"

2012-01-27T13:42:00.000-08:00

Before I forget

2012-01-27T12:59:00.000-08:00

Before I forget these cute and funny things my kids say I have to write them down. I lose important papers daily and can never find a pen, so I blog them..

Jaxon and Ivy were in the bath together the other day and having a blast with a can of shaving cream. Just when I was wondering if they were getting too old for sharing the tub, I hear Jax say to Ivy: I will make you a shaving cream Zucchini (bikini) if you give me a boutique (goatee)... This reminded me of how little they still are.
Fast Forward a week later and Jax and I are sitting in those little tiny chairs at his Parent-Teacher Conference and when it's all over and done his teacher asks him if he has any questions for her. He perks up and says, "You mean something I've always wanted to know". She tells him he can ask her anything. He looks up at her and politely says, "Mrs. Collard can you please tell me how god really created bats"?

Jessa got hitched

2012-01-25T13:36:00.000-08:00

We had this amazing babysitter in Victor that we all loved and adored. Times flies and this amazing babysitter turned into a real woman who met a man and was getting married. Lucky for us she married a guy from Heber and so we made it a family affair and went to their gorgeous wedding. Congrats to Jessa and Colton Bangerter. We wish you the best and a real happily ever after.

God bless Martin Luther King

2012-01-15T16:26:00.000-08:00

Martin Luther King gave us a long weekend. May he rest in peace. We cruised on over to my moms to do what we usually do when we are here. We cook, eat, do hair, nails, and attempt to conflict manage 7 little kids under the age of 8.

Ivy eats as many popscicles as her little heart desires

Laynie gets force fed one as well

Ivy, papa and bella pass out on the couch

Jaxon brought his Red Rider because Papa promised he'd take him shooting and Jaxon remembered. He loved shooting targets and learning some gun safety. Ivy was super concerned about Bella being shot and even made Jax promise he wouldn't shoot her.

Rosscoe wondered why I washed his clothes??/

He was afraid he'd have to borrow some pants from papa leo because his pants were in the washer and would be forced into this "Plaid Bandit" costume. I did'nt want him to feel alone is his dorkiness so I put on a face mask and posed for a picture.

He got his pants back and so we color cordinated our clothes

Jaxon went back outside for round 3.. Bella was spared and we

continued eating, drinking and over processing our hair.

New Year

2012-01-05T15:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! There's really nothing like the feeling of a fresh start. This year I hope everyday I wake up with that great feeling of a "fresh start". We don't have to wait a whole year to set goals and feel new again. I have a sneaking suspicion that this is MY YEAR... Make it yours too.. Cheers to 20212

Chistmas at the Carsons

2012-01-01T17:43:00.000-08:00

Only in this neighborhood would a horse drawn sleigh pull up and take kids for a ride. Things like this make me miss this fridgid little town

Jaxon and his hero, Dallin

We were impressed with the Chrismas Eve Blintzes that these two whipped up

Emily the Drama Major produced and directed a puppet show about
The birth of JESUS

Emily was surprised to see the plus size jammies she opened up

We even made it to Church by 10:30

Jess and Ryan dressed down after church into some hot jerseys

Randy shopped around Sportsmans for way too long one day and bought his girls these sexy footie pajamas! While the pajamas were a total bust this year.........Christmas was so great in every way! Thanks to everyone who hosted us weary travellers. We love and miss you all.

Happy 30th birthday mommy

2011-12-29T12:59:00.000-08:00

Christmas Part One

2011-12-29T10:46:00.000-08:00

We took to the road this Christmas. We were a traveling clan that looked much like the Clampits. We went to the mountains first and had such a great time with Ross's brother Randy and his family. We stayed with them and ate the most amazing food I can remember eating in a long time. The kids played in the snow and followed around their "Hero Cousins" the whole time. Catherine the Christmas Warrior stayed up till 5:30 am on Christmas Eve and woke up ready to roll at 7:30 for the big Santa Reveal.

There is something so magical about being in the mountains for Christmas. It made me miss my old home and the people we used to see daily. We had a delicious dinner of Seafood Chowder at Ross's moms on Friday and opened the first round of gifts of the weekend. We went to my moms after church on Sunday and were greeted with an amazing prime rib dinner and a whole new batch of gifts to open. We always love being at my moms and all the perks that come with it. Here's some photos from my moms house........................................................................................

Vanilla Ice 1 and 2 keepin it real for the holidays

I am Davids favorite niece. If you don't believe me just ask him.

Seawolf loves Bobbie

Papa Ivan played legos with Jaxon FOREVER. Jaxon was in heaven and Papa Ivan was a great sport

We payed little Laynie a visit at home at she showed off her new tricks of letting you hold her until she saw her mama walk by and then she would make the saddest face in the world and hold out her arms for mama!

Sophie and Ivy are always good for a pose when the see a camera....

Santa drinks Margaritas

2011-12-18T22:06:00.000-08:00

We spotted the real SANTA at MI RANCHITO in American Fork drinking margaritas and enjoying an enchilada. The kids were so excited! Ivy was batting her lashes across the restaraunt at him and Jaxon was folding his arms in reverence at the pure though of him being in the same room.

Christmas Card Practice

2011-12-11T22:16:00.001-08:00

We have these awesome neighbors. One of them secretly moonlights as a Christmas card photographer.

Lucky for us!

Here are a few of the wannabe Christmas card photos that we took today. This way if I never

send them out in time, I feel a little better that I posted them on my blog.

This is not the big winner

31 Flavors

2011-12-07T13:27:00.001-08:00

31 flavors of LOVE

(in celebrating Ross turning the big 31)

He is a great kisser
He wrestles with me and the kids
He loves his family and extended family
He is feircly loyal
He can fix anything
He can make killer omlettes
he can polish concrete like "nobody's business
He says his prayers
He is a sexy dancer
He can organize a fridge like a true pro
He can (sorta) braid hair
His nostril flaring is intense
He does push ups every night in the living room
He secretly likes the Bachelor and The Real Housewives
He worships his brother
Helps his Grandma
Tells me I'm a ten
works in the cold
Rarely complains
Makes coffee in the morning
Can cry at a movie
He is a wuss when it comes to Ivy
He has big dreams for our future
Says he's sorry when he really is
Worries about me driving (ha ha)
He can bust out some moves with glow sticks that could rival even a rave pro
He loves to win
He did my make up (once) and it looked pretty good
He is honest and trustworthy
He is such a giver
He makes my days so much better

Dang AUTO CORRECT

2011-12-07T12:58:00.001-08:00

gLOCKETS

2011-12-02T17:17:00.001-08:00

I am so excited to announce the launch of my new website, gLOCKETS! These are such a great gift for anyone on your list, including you! This is a glass locket that opens so you can put in little birth stone charms to remember all the little "GEMS" in your life while keeping them close to your heart! Whose stones would you put in your gLOCKET? Leave a comment and you may just win a gLOCKET.

Medium-Fat Elves

2011-11-30T00:32:00.001-08:00

I have felt like a big loser-mom for not having the "Elf on a Shelf" for about a year now. Not really a year, but close for sure. All of the sudden there's a movie about it on TV and so of course my kids are talking about it and wondering why they are so unfortunate and don't have the elf flying around their house everynight, yaddayadayadayaddda. I told them that "chippy" was coming in the mail straight from the North Pole after school today. Well... We went to Target right after school and that crazy "Chippy" was spotted on an end cap by Jaxon. I think all the Elves that come with adoption papers and a book were long gone by Midnight on Black Friday sooooo, We ended up with the plush version of the "Elf On a Shelf" and a long explanation of why Chippy was confused and flew to Target instead of our house.

Turned out that Chippy was hungry and wanted some popcorn at Target and was so happy that we somehow knew he was there and came to take him home! Phew

This is my version of an ADVENT CALENDAR... I filled a bunch of Christmas socks with little toys and treats so my kids will know exactly how many days there are until Christmas! The bad news is that there are socks hanging from my patio door. The good news is that I have a lot of Christmas socks when this whole thing is over and done...

P.S. Ross and I both still remember our childhood Advent Calendars. I'm telling you... This is the stuff they will remember. We still do.............

P.P.S. Today on the way to school Jaxon told me that because there are two teachers in his class he sometimes forgets their names and sometimes even mixes them up, He just kindly refers to them as.... Wait for it.... I about cried.... "The Skinny One" and "The Medium Fat One".

Thanks Again..

2011-11-29T20:44:00.001-08:00

I am THANKFUL today and everyday for a million things. I am so THANKFUL for the health of me and my little family, My warm home and full pantry. I am full of thanks for my family and Ross's family who treat me as if I am their own. I am THANKFUL that I know my prayers are answered in one way or another.

Tasha and John hosted Thanksgiving this year. They pretty much host everything.. I am so grateful to have a place to go wear I am am fed, entertained and drinks are flowing on any given holiday or any other day of the week. Truly Grateful for Tasha (especially since I moved here).. I brought this sexy salad to Thanksgiving along with a slush drink that everyone seemed to hate. Dang...

Thankful that sweet little Witney is really not drinking this wine. Tori Jo is THANKFUL too (More for TORI). It's always so fun when "My Tori" and Blaykers come to town. I miss those girls so much.

And then the Hostess of the year had Santa come to sit in the Pergola and give the kids a gift on Saturday while they sipped Hot Chocolate that was accompanied by Pintrest worthy Marshmallow stirring sticks. Santa was really shy and happened to live next door to her. This is the best picture I got so it looks like we will be headed to the mall for another shot at the 2011 Santa photo.

And I am grateful for a tall and sexy husband who works so hard for our family! I love this guy (Most of the time)!!!!!

2011-11-22T16:30:00.001-08:00

So... My dad sent all his girls and all our kids to California for a little pre Thanksgiving celebration. We watched the Bonita Bearcats chew up Pasadena poly and spit them out in the CIF championship game. My little brother was smoother her than silk in the water at the game. We had such a great time with everyone! Thanks again for entertaining us and taking such good care of all of us, I hope Matt plays in college so I can watch this little brother of mine dominate the pool for a few more years!

Spider Girl shakes her Money Maker

2011-11-15T17:08:00.001-08:00

missing shopping cart

2011-11-15T17:00:00.001-08:00

While helping Granmonica move into her new Senior Apt community I spotted this posted on the bulletin board in the elevator.

a PERM? at 3 years old....

2011-11-07T08:54:00.000-08:00

The daily battle with Ivy's stick straight, baby fine hair drove me to desperate measures. A PERM
She did great as the "QUEEN OF PERMS" put in the rods at record speed. Stay tuned for how curly and sassy Ivy's new do is. My sister Calyn was not quite as lucky after the former " QUEEN OF PERMS" got a hold of her bleached locks.

HALLOWEENISTA

2011-11-01T23:40:00.000-07:00

This year Jaxon's dream finally came true! He was painted up by a pro (not mom) and turned into the scariest Werewolf I have ever seen. Ross's cousin, Eric is an artist and was so nice to give Jax the best paint job before school on Halloween. Since Jax is my first baby in school this was the first time I got to help in a class party. thought about doing a cake walk. baked 4 cakes on Saturday. All of them stuck to the pan and the counter tops when I turned them over to decorate. I freaked out! I had no choice but to make my classroom debut with candy and tattoo's as treats for the winner of my SORRY game of broomstick limbo. It was a hit (thankfully).

Jaxon thought he was a real life movie star. Thanks again, Eric.

The good news is that I finally got to meet the mysterious girlfriend, "EMMA". I think it's official. I saw them holding hands during carpet time. I still have no idea who her mom is which is probably a good thing since I have made a You Tube video with her name and (now infamous) white skin in the title.

and then..... Joe Dirt, Axle Rose, Randy Carson (as a teenager), or Brett Michaels, Bat Girl, The Baby Witch, and the Werewolf did some old fashioned trick or treating in Shannons neighborhood. Her birthday is on Halloween and she calls herself a professional Halloweenista. That she was for sure. The kids got tons of candy and a SODA???? in their Trick or Treat bags. This was the first year my kids didn't have to wear coats over their costumes. I'd like to say it all ended nicely but......... It was time to play turn " The Werewolf" back into Jaxon the kindergartner for school the next day. Lets just say it ended with me in the shower armed with a pumice stone and every species of soap in our house and....... a wrinkly, whiny and red faced boy whose face apparently wanted to remain a Werewolf for time and all eternity.

Zombify

2011-10-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween you filthy animals, and a happy NEW YEAR

Jaxon is in love...

2011-10-26T22:55:00.000-07:00

Tattos

2011-10-25T20:50:00.000-07:00

We played Tattoo shop tonight. Ivy was the customer, Jax was the artist! I used the opportunity to snap a few photos while they were happy and high on their new tattoo BUZZ.

Game Day

2011-10-20T01:14:00.000-07:00

We went to Tasha's the other day to let the kids play, brainstorm crafty neighbor gifts to make, talk about CHINA, go on a WINE WALK, and take too many pictures of our offspring while the leaves and lighting were both on our team. We made the treats.. Click here to see just how crafty and neighborly we are. Having only one neighbor makes it easy!

This is semi creepy but way too sweet to not post! I love that they are still little enough to kiss each other for the camera. Jaxon has a girlfriend now in his Kindergarten class. Her name is Emma. He isn't quite sure if he is her boyfriend, but he has no doubt that she is his GIRLFRIEND. Maybe he's practicing on IVY. I hope not.

Ivy loves Camden. You know she loves you if she requests your hairdo. There are only a few who have made it into her wannabe hairdo club that are not animated characters. At my desperate attempts at her letting me brush, curl or even touch her hair I have created a little game. It goes something like this...

ME: Can I please fix your hair pretty today?
IVY: No. No way, I like tangles, I want spiky hair like Jax.
ME: Only boys have spikes. You are a girl. Lets make your hair gorgeous like Rapunzel.
IVY: I want Kung Fu Panda hair
ME: Okay, Kung Fu Panda loves pony tails.
IVY: I don't look like a panda with this pony
ME: You do. Trust me.
IVY: I want Emily hair. I want to be gorgeous(her new favorite word) like My Emily.
I was happy I could at least pull off the Emily for a month or so, but when it turned into the Camden I was at a loss again. This morning she asked for the best one yet.. The BUBBA. My mom has the typical mom do that she rocks like a Rock-star and has proudly for.. WAIT. MY whole life. I tried, lied and told Ivy she looked just like Grandma. She looked in the mirror and pretty much chanted the words, "No I don't" until I found her a hat and told her she was a DAD!

Looks like we need some Patriots jersey's if we wanna hang with these boys. Even their dad was sporting one. Too cute!

Mr. Potato Head Pumpkins

2011-10-17T23:07:00.000-07:00

Much easier than carving and pretty dang cute

These two are pretty darn cute too!

Lets just pretend

2011-10-16T02:04:00.000-07:00

Today I made these perfect treats for my perfect family. I had these gorgeous raspberries laying around(local, of course). I tossed in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise! yummy...

Then I felt like my makeup brushes were lacking a proper home, so I let them live here instead of in a drawer.

I had an extra hour and so little old me added some funky lace to Ivy's "baby legs" for a hot and sexy fall look. To die for! Seriously....

I threw together this darling kids art display while they napped.

and added a little style to the whole art room when they woke up from their incredibley long naps.

and then I ordered these hot little numbers online throwing my fear of "Cankles" to the wind.

I treated my family to this Candy Corn Cheesecake for desert because... Let's face it. Cheesecake needed a update.

I wanted original Halloween yard decor..... So I threw the ratty old scarecrows away, and hand crafted these lovely ghost dress silhouettes instead. I think they turned out great. What do you think?

I finally found a way to make my stairs more functional. I can't believe it took this long..............

I worked out.

Got my nails DID..............

I wrote a long overdue entry in my, "Gratitude Journal" about how grateful I am that my husband looks just like Rob Lowe. Grateful. Grateful. Grateful.

I was so grateful that I put a photo of the two of us in a mason jar with olive oil and then I remembered that none of this stuff was real at all, and the people in the picture wasn't even us. I was just clicking around on PINTREST pretending that I was so awesome.

Lake Havasu

2011-10-13T09:48:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago my brother-in-law Trevor called Ross in a panic and said the two buddies he was planning on going to Havasu with had to bail on the trip last minute. He was looking for a "replacement". Ross was excited. He said, maybe so. Next thing I know. He said, NO. Guess who was the replacement? That would be me. I drove to my moms, dropped of the kids, packed a bathing suit and caught a flight with Trevor the next morning. So my dad, Trevor and I had a few days in Havasu doing whatever it is you do in Lake Havasu with your dad and brother-in-law.

We had such a great time on the lake. We went scary fast on a seriously sick boat. We met some pirate wenches, hung out with 100 howards, enjoyed the sun and enjoyed some people watching that only the river can provide.

This is the Lake Havasu mascot. This crazy looking bird was at the marina each day greeting the boaters and enjoying their half eaten bags of chips in the afternoon. I have never seen a bird like it. The "real-life" ugly duckling is a alive and decided to retire in Lake Havasu, working as a volunteer dock hand to escape the Mrs. and an occasional flash of girly parts from a cute spring breaker.

This crazy device was something I'd never seen before. Jackson Lake needs one of these for sure.

2011-10-12T01:08:00.000-07:00

This is my new favorite! So simple yet so thought provoking. Everyone needs a banner, mantra, quote, manifesto ,post it note of importance, etc... This is mine(for now, today and maybe even tomorrow).

Eviel Knevil wears a Tu Tu

2011-10-11T22:07:00.000-07:00

This morning she told me that she hates me

This afternoon she threw rocks at me

She sweetened up a little by evening

and then she rode into the sunset, laughing quietly to herself...

Sister Wives

2011-10-09T21:57:00.000-07:00

It's really fall here now. Not the freezing, mitten wearing weather that we are used to in October, but it's fall for sure. I am watching, "Sister Wives" now on TLC and creeping out at how bizarre these people are while I secretly marvel at how functional it really is (at least on TV). Maybe this is my new must watch TV show because I now live in the same county where they lived before they had to flee to Las Vegas. It's no secret that Ross and I both are the product of polygamist ancestors. Maybe that's whats got me hooked on the show and weighing the pros and the cons.

Pros
1.Lots of hands in the kitchen(Doing dishes at record breaking speed)
2.Built in babysitters(I could finally go to the gym and wander around Target for hours on end all by my lonesome)
3.Fashion consultant sister wife(unless she opted for the bonnet and homemade dress look)
4.Someone to make me midnight turkey sandwiches and spray tan me at will
5.Built in book club members
6.Lots more shoes(assuming they all wear an 8.5)
7.Marathon screenings of Desperate Housewives and The Bachelor without having to text any friends or sisters about whats happening live.
8.A plethora of homemade holiday wreaths to chose from when a holiday arrived

Cons
1. It's illegal
2. One may be much sexier than me.... not to mention lots nicer
3. One could make better treats and turn better tricks
4. Fear of a sister wife cutting my hair while I slept
5. Me cutting another wife's hair while she slept in a jealous rage
6. Buying plane tickets for 14 instead of four
7. Trading in my car for a shuttle bus
8. Eating green jello with shredded carrots
9. Wondering if my husband is really a prophet or a pimp

Ivy turns the big 03

2011-10-03T20:06:00.000-07:00

She's 3. She's sassy and so sweet. Loves to snuggle, kill bugs, dance to techno beats, stay up all night long, swim, my little ponies, strawberry shortcake, her grandmas, her "Emily", Popsicle's, cleaning with Windex, and her big brother. We just can't get enough of our little, "Poison Ivy". I just love having a mini me more than I ever knew was possible.

live to ride..ride to live

2011-09-27T12:15:00.000-07:00

I finally have the internet!! I've never felt so out of touch with the world for this long in my life.The big news is that Jax can ride a bike without training wheels(sort of). This is it in slow motion, baby!

No big news or clever story. just pictures

2011-07-09T21:02:00.001-07:00

2:09 am

2011-06-01T01:08:00.000-07:00

It's 2:09 so I will spare you all the story of how cute she is. It's coming later for sure. xoxoxox

Jaxon Lies...ha ha

2011-05-30T21:34:00.000-07:00

Jaxon is on a little vacation in Victor right now with Randy, Cath and kids. Catherine just texted me this a minute ago... "Okay.... so we were at Big 5 sporting goods today getting Jessica some things for softball. Dallin was showing Jaxon the baseball cups explaining what they were for. On the way home Jaxon mentioned the cups again and said...."My dad's weenie is really big, if you guys saw it you would freak out". We are laughing so hard right now....I love the things that come out of his mouth sometimes.

Its all in how you look at it

2011-05-24T23:42:00.000-07:00

2011-05-24T23:29:00.000-07:00

"oh the comfort - the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words - but pouring them all right out - just as they are - chaff and grain together - certain that a faithful friend will take and sift them - keep what is worth keeping - and with a breath of kindness - blow the rest away".

Quick trip

2011-05-17T23:46:00.000-07:00

Last minute... Thursday evening..I loaded up my kids and dog and headed north. My mom's best gal was turning 50 and we just needed a debbie-bubba fix really bad. We cooked, cleaned, celebrated 50 years of life, rough housed with cousins and caught up with my sisters. There's no feeling like being with your mom when you are a mom. I feel so relaxed and comfortable. It's truly the only time I feel like I don't have to be "everything to everyone". The mattress is still worse than any one I have ever slept on or would ever sleep on unless I got to wake up with that feeling that only being home can bring.

Easter in the Hood

2011-04-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

Easter came and went. We went to a new and interesting church with Ross's Grandmonica,Complete with a dramatic interpretation set to holy music. What a treat! He lives....I promise

spring

2011-04-20T13:35:00.000-07:00

They just keep coming

2011-04-03T17:01:00.000-07:00

The other Carsons came for a visit. Ivy followed Emily all over the place. Jax would'nt let Dallin leave his side. I remembered just how much I love and miss my sister in law and just how much Ross needs his big brother around.

Jax is all about doing his hair just like Dallin's these days.

My mom paid us another visit too. This time she brought along her partner in crime and sister, Diane. The crazy duo stayed in last night while the hubby and I grabbed a drink downtown. Thanks, Ladies!

Ivy got dressed up like a barbie in this wig created by "Paris Hilton". She looks like shes 7 when she's wearing it. We almost had my mom talked into picking up her sister from the airport wearing it. ALMOST..

We hit up this fun piano bar downtown called, "keys on main" last week with Tasha while John was in China doing all things Chinese.

Who new Mary poppins had a Brazilian Grand daughter?

2011-03-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

Now that I'm sort of a working girl I had to figure out someone to watch my kiddo's. They have never been to daycare and for some reason everytime I thought about it I would tear up. Lucky for us, we met Renata. She is recently married and just found out she is pregnant. Jaxon thinks he speaks Portuguese now and Ivy kisses her the second she walks in the door. The other day I told her that Ivy called her, "Tunata" and Jax calls her, "granata". She laughed and told me that I have been pronouncing her name wrong too. I guess the "R" in Renata sounds like an "H". Well, whatever the hell her name is.......... We really love her! For some reason my mom busted out, "head,shoulders, knees, and toes" the other day in Portuguese. I'm still laughing about that one for some reason.

All the cool pictures were fuzzy

2011-03-29T09:52:00.000-07:00

Rachels sisters were out in full force this weekend. They were here for a funeral but managed to add in a little fun. We loved seeing them all together. It makes me miss my sisters. More pictures to come from someone who's camera didnt go buzzy.

We miss mom, cali, drake and baby Laynie

2011-03-25T08:48:00.000-07:00

Mom, Cali, Laynie and Drake came for a short visit. Way to short.. Drake and Ivy are so fun to watch together because they are pretty much exactly the same age. They sorta love each other. Sorta! Laynie is so chubby now and looking so cute. Jaxon was sad that Uncle Trevor didn't come with them.

We are alive..

2011-02-22T09:01:00.000-08:00

Playing with cousins at the Provo beach resort...

Seriously... Both these little girls are named, "IVY TAYLOR".

2011-01-31T22:32:00.000-08:00

We are so Hip

2011-01-29T20:21:00.000-08:00

This is us in all our Glory. We are so exciting these days that I can't even put it on a blog. You feel me?

"I'd Rather be poor than annoying"

2011-01-13T22:46:00.000-08:00

I'd rather be called fat than,"Chunky".

I'd rather be the girl that puts the date stamp on the pretzel bags for 8 hours a day than be the girl who mops the floors at the porn theater for only 4 hours a day.

I'd rather be eating something better than these Teddy Graham"s right now.

Is this me in 20 years?

2011-01-13T19:24:00.000-08:00

Today I am so greatful for my children. This lady is what I imagine myself being if I never had kids and just happened to live in Siberia.

I could do this all night long>>>>

2011-01-11T01:19:00.000-08:00

Cover-Boy

2011-01-04T07:31:00.000-08:00

My dad finally made the cover of a magazine. He was hoping it was Forbes instead. He's the smiley guy in the back of the boat smiling and waving.

30 IS NOT SO DIRTY

2010-12-13T19:52:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 30TH BIRTHDAY YOU FILTHY & SEXY ANIMAL.THE DREADED DAY CAME AND YOU TOOK IT LIKE A CHAMP. YOU SMILED EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE FORCED TO CELEBRATE WITH BRETT MICHAELS.IT'S OFFICIAL... YOU ARE A REAL GROWN UP NOW. I LOVE YOU!

DEAR PAUL, PLEASE HURRY ALONG WITH YOUR ORAL SURGEON PROGRAM. I'D REALLY LIKE THE CRAZY TOOTH THAT MY DAD GAVE ME FIXED ONE OF THESE CHRISTMAS'S.
THANKS IN ADVANCE, SNAGGLE TOOTH...

My favorite SNow BuNNy"s

2010-12-01T18:19:00.000-08:00

THANKS AGAIN

2010-11-27T21:52:00.000-08:00

I am so THANKFUL.... for healthy children, an amazing family, freedom, and..

Great friends. I don't have many but I sure do love the ones I have....

Thankful for this funny little boy of mine who loves to dress up in 5 costumes a day. This is him dressed up as a "DAD"....

Thankful for my babies daddy. Double thankful for the drawer organizing he pulled off today.

Thankful that I am almost done with Christmas shopping thanks to the ad hunting-crowd fighting momma of mine. We seriously did'nt go to bed on Thanksgiving night. Ross, mom and I headed out at midnight. Ross kinda got into it. We told him it was a competitive sport and he was in the Championship game. This time there were no balls involved though. The balls have been swapped for wild housewives, zhu zhu pets and a whole bunch of other strange characters that only a Wal Mart store on Black Friday can bring toghether. My mom and I battled out the last few hours on our own in a two hour long line that she seriously forced me to wait in with her. Did you know that they make men's Shape Up shoes? Yeah, Neither did we. Needless to say we were horrified and had the whole line talking about this creepy shoe that somehow makes your buns tight and your calves slammin just by walking. I thought the womens ones were scary enough. I can only dream of the day I get to spot a real man wearing these suckers. Please take a picture for me if you find one.

I am very thankful that I don't really have a lazy eye or semi Tangerine tinged skin. Just in this picture....

Mammy makes me thankful for so many lessons learned. Thanks to her I can bake bread, make jam, and drink a (cool one) all at the same time.

I am thankful for Blaykers and the sweet way she has finally captured Jaxons heart. (Finally). She is getting so close to walking and we can't wait till we can chase her around.

Thankful that IVY can tell us what she wants these days. Its truly life changing. This is her talking to Grandma on the phone. She asked Santa for a cell this year.

And very thankful that my kids are turning into the cutest friends. This is them performing dance routines while we watch DWTS. And yes, Ivy loves wearing Jax's Undies. I could go on and on forever and a day with all the blessings in my life I am so THANKFUL for today. GRATITUDE..... Here's to hoping we can all express it more and more.

Cat lady's need turkey too.....

2010-11-15T13:24:00.000-08:00

For a former "Cat Hater" I seem to have turned over a new leaf. This one has been living with us for a month or so now and we all secretly love her. We named her Lizzie and hope she is a girl. She is the sweetest thing and a killer in the mouse department. She just showed up here one day and never left.

I promise I'm not turning into a cat lady. Please stop me if she makes an appearance on our Christmas card. I realize that may be crossing the line.

Every day Jaxon has been talking about how he needs to practice painting daddy's face. Practice for what? I don't know.. I'm just hoping it's a phase. Ross finally gave in and I can't believe how great he did. Jaxon's career hopes of being a Power Ranger are somehow looking better than a face painting clown or a makeup artist.

The Griffins had us over yesterday for the most delicious pre Thanksgiving dinner. It got me so excited for the real thing. The turkey was better than any turkey I have ever had. I think resting the bird for a good amount of time may be the secret. Jordy knew how to make, "real gravy". I believe the gravy can really make or break the whole dinner. Gravy should never ever come from a jar or a packet as far as this girls concerned. Lauryn's mom made the most amazing cream cheese pound cake once while she was in town. (I frequently fantasize about it). Lauryn made it just like the one her southern mama made for me. It was amazing to say the least.

Ivy and Whit trying to figure out what is "MINE" "MINE "MINE"

Jaxy and Jenzi.... They were adorable together. They almost made up for the bad behavior Ivy was recklessly throwing around.

Jazz and park days...

2010-11-10T11:20:00.000-08:00

My mom got some Utah Jazz box suite tickets from work. She could'nt make the game so Ross and I took full advantage of them. We had such a great time at the game. I'm spoiled now and never want to have to sit in a regular seat again.

small pleasures

2010-11-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

Where have you been for all these years? I'm so happy that you came back...

The longest Halloween ever....

2010-10-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

When you have the most costume loving five year old in the world, everyday resembles Halloween in our house. Is it just me or does in seem like Halloween has lasted a month already and its not til tomorrow. Jaxon dressed up for three days in three different costumes. He said, "mom, did you you know that some kids only have one costume"? every year I'm starting to feel more like a "grown up mom". It's official now. I made my little girls Halloween costume! If that doesn't make me OFFICIAL... I don't know what does. She was the cutest little poison Ivy. I did a witches brew thingy at Jaxon's school where I was dressed as a ugly green faced witch in the morning. Never again will I paint my face green. NEVER! It is still sorta green and nasty in some spots. Rachel came and helped control Poison Ivy at the school carnival. Thank goodness she did because lately this little girl is outta control. She used to be so sweet. I'm praying it's a short phase. I miss the sweet version.. More Halloween pictures to come.

The weekend

2010-10-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

While sweet baby Laynie was at Primary Childrens Hospital working on getting better so she and her mom could come home....

We were having such a great time with her big brother Drake. Ivy and Drake became the cutest little buddies. There were a few fights and lots of laughing....

MAKE THIS TONIGHT...

2010-10-26T19:01:00.000-07:00

Dinner in a pumpkin

1 medium pumpkin
1 chopped onion
2 pounds ground beef
4 Tbsp soy sauce
4 Tbsp brown sugar
2can cream of chicken soup
4cups cooked BROWN rice (or you can use white…I prefer brown since it’s healthier)
2 can sliced water chestnuts drained(optional)
2 can slice mushrooms(optional)

Cut off top of pumpkin and thoroughly clean out seeds and pulp. If desired draw a face on outside of pumpkin with permanent marker or acrylic paint. (This is a great thing to let kids help you with)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large skillet cook onions and hamburger until hamburger is cooked and onions are tender.
Drain drippings. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, and soup.
Simmer 10 minutes stirring occasionally. Add cooked rice and water chestnut, and mushrooms.
Spoon mixture into cleaned out pumpkin shell.
Replace pumpkin top and place entire pumpkin with filling on a baking sheet.

Bake 1-2 hours (depending upon the size of the pumpkin) It will be done when the inside of pumpkin is tender. Put pumpkin on a plate. Remove pumpkin lid and serve meat and some of
the cooked pumpkin.

Listening in on my kiddo's

2010-10-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

Ivy can pretty much say anything these days and I love watching her put words together now. Besides this new awful high pitched growl she does now at anything that does'nt go exactly her way these are some of her favoites...
* "Ivy do it"
* "push play momma"
* "no pee pee in the potty"
* "Diaper on please"
* My favorite is when I catch her talking on her play phone and says,"hey,baby"!

Jax is so full of new ideas and insights into the ways of the world.
here's a few of my favorites......
* Jax told my mom the other day that there is a boy at his school that washes his hands and they are still black. (Only in Idaho).
* "When I grow up do you think I'll have hairs on my nipples like dad"
* He looked at me in the eye yesterday and said, "Seriously, mom. Who do you think you are".

Why I can't make mom friends

2010-10-10T22:00:00.000-07:00

We are so glamorous....

2010-10-10T20:05:00.000-07:00

Drakes birthday was on Friday. These little cousins are becoming the best of friends.

I realize that most pictures you try to take of yourself are most likely going to turn out hideous. That's just why I keep on trying to get a good one. Maybe next time.

Today I painted Jax up like Frankenstein. I can't believe how scary he looked.

So......While there is no target store, most women my age are a little hairy and pimp out their Subaru's,people still say,"Ain't", and last week several people called my car an, "OUTFIT". It sure is a beautiful little spot in the world.

So beautiful that I have resorted to making homemade mouse traps. This is very advanced indeed. All you need is a bucket, coke can, peanut butter and a couple sticks. Thanks Deseree for sharing your mountain mama wisdom with me.
This is the before picture of Roscoe's hair. I forgot to take the after when I finished cutting it into a semi normal looking coif. You get the idea....

just look at her

2010-10-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

I just had to show the world how gorgeous my little niece Sophie is. STUNNING

IVY is 2

2010-09-30T14:30:00.000-07:00

My baby is two. I know everyone says it goes by so fast. It really does. I love how from the very first kick in the belly, they have such a personality already. I love watching her discover the world. Ivy got a baby kitty and could'nt possibly be more excited. We have been fighting with mice for months now and I broke down and got a cat. Lauryn has been on the same hunt for a good mouser and hooked me up with this little kitty on Ivy's birthday. Sooo perfect. I'm planning on semi starving this little kitten so he gets hungry for mice. Jax got Ivy a pillow pet. He has been reciting the commercial now for a few months. "It's a pillow, it's a pet, it's a piillooww pet". he even goes into the, "it's machine washable" part. This litlle girl has my heart in such a huge way. She is such a girl in so many ways. I love experiencing the boy-girl difference everyday. I am so bleesed to be Ivy's mommy.

We are alive

2010-09-27T19:19:00.000-07:00

iN NO PARTICULAR ORDER.... here are a few happenings in the last little while. The bbig news is my hot mama turned the big 50. I can't even begin to put how I feel about my newly 50 year old mama into words. I'll just say that "50 never looked better and she is my one and only hero". Love you mama...

Davey Jones lives with us now. He is very scary to put it lightly. He only grunts and says, "arrrg". This is the newest bin the costume collection. On another note.. Last night while driving jaxon was watching a sesame street movie that was all about dancing. (Ivy's movie). Out of nowhere he says, "Dad, can I please get some tap shoes and take some tap dancing lessons"? We are loving the Davey jones costume more and more everyday day now if it keeps him outta Tap class.
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Ivy is two in two days and I still loves a good snuggle from her mama.

I was upstairs for a total of 5 minutes and returned to see this little sneak sitting on the couch with a poscicle and her own bag of chips that she got all by herself. I could'nt believe it. At least I know she could survive in the wild..

My prayers have been answered. Three back tickling-rubbing midgets at my service. I knew the day would come.Dream big people. Carmeled apples Rock my world. Sometimes if I have to make a bottle in the middle of the night, I scarf onbe down in a minute flat. They must taste better at 3am.

This was my enthusiastic apple making team. I swear they liked it. can't you tell by this picture?

and now I'm to tired to post anymore lame captions.........Use your imagination.

Laynie Deborah Petersen

2010-09-16T09:56:00.000-07:00

A litte late on the post but HERE SHE IS... Calyn and Trevor welcomed sweet baby Laynie Deborah Petersen on August 14th. She was a tiny little 5.3 pounds. Her cleft lip and palette was discovered at a 20 week ultrasound. Laynies parents have been on the ball with everything that comes with it. She has her first of a few surgeries next month. I knew from the minute I held her that this little girl was sent here to do amazing things. I had a dream that she won Mrs. Universe and helped so many kids in less fortunate countries with clefts. Who knows what the future hold for this little girl but for now I am so happy she is in the most loving hands. Love you Laynie Bug! Check out my sisters blog (it's on my sidebar)for all sorts of information and cool links to Kids with Clefts.

underwearless

2010-09-16T09:43:00.000-07:00

Finally! After many failed attempts at preschool, we have a WINNER! Jaxon loves his new school. He thinks he is so cool. He wakes up ready to go everytime. I catch him telling Ivy all the time about school and how she just doesnt know about all sorts of things because she's not in school yet. Ivy screams the whole way home every time we drop him off and then once more when we pick him up.
While driving to moms yesterday he said, "Im so sick of my sweaty weenie". I had to explain that is one of the best things about wearing underwear.(He wears None)! I went on and on listing the many benefits of wearing underwear. One reason was that if someone pulls your pants down it would be much better if you were wearing underwear than just a naked bum. Fifteen minutes later he says, "Mom, can you please just tell me who is planning on pulling down my pants so I can just be ready to fight that mean kid or go buy a belt or something"? Im always amazined at the way his mind interprets these talks of ours.

We are going to miss this place..

2010-08-26T00:43:00.000-07:00

We are home in the mountains now. It's raining and blowing like a son of a B. DANG...

Beach bums

2010-08-21T22:52:00.000-07:00

Seems like yesterday Melissa and I were begging my dad to buy us bathing suits and let us go on MTV Jams. It was not exactly yesterday.But,this is how we roll these days. We are official moms now. Melissa has a whole beach toy-chair system. She has these chairs that turn in to backpacks. They also have pockets for towels and toys.(Costco Rocks)! The kids and the moms had such a great day at the beach. We will be back for more soon. There's nothing in the whole world like a good day at the beach.

And I thought I was cool

2010-08-12T10:27:00.000-07:00

This was a couple months ago but when I saw the pictures I knew I had to document this night and share a few pictures of my new B.F.F with you all. These girls took me out for a mellow night of listening to the band and a cocktail or two. And then... out of nowhere...things got much more entertaining...

Out of nowhere comes this awesome lady. The outfit was amazing. The dance moves were legendary. Her love of life was simply contagious.

Just when I thought this lady could'nt get any cooler. She seriously hopped on a pink razor scooter and headed off into the sunset.

Closing Time

2010-08-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

Whityn turned the big one.

Ivy manhandled chickens

Summer is closing in on us way to quick. We haven't exactly been on a bunch of tropical vacations this summer, but we have spent it with the people we love the most. My mom always said, "Only boring people get bored". We are never bored and here's some picture evidence to back it up. Hey, I didn't say, "exciting"... Just not boring.

Zya< Jaxon> Breslynn... chased around some chickens at Whit's 1st Birthday party..

When the four of us get together I think people wish were were more boring.....

Jaxon makes a splash at the Judo picnic...

Ivy peeps out of the bouncy TeePee... She was taking a quick break from yelling the word, NO at every other kid in the thing.

Ivy latched on to Jazzy. Anyone that knows Ivy knows that thats a rarity.

Yep, we still have spa nights at the Carson house. I have stepped it up a notch lately and have been giving my spa treatments in a "scary slime mask" (as Jaxy calls it).

happenings

2010-08-01T09:21:00.000-07:00

It's so crazy to me to think that if wasn't for these two men... Jax and I would not be in this picture. My grandpas share the same birthdays and the same love for sexy women and big fish....

So this is the face I got when I told my dad to, "make a sexy face". I'm not sure if its sexy or scary. You decide.

Oh, how I just love a good round pregnant belly. Especially one that I don't have to carry around. My littlest sister in due in a few weeks and looking so adorable. Even her ankles have been good to her this pregnancy. Last time she was this pregnant, I was too. This time the little sister braved it on her own. I can't wait to love on this little girl that she has already named, LAYNIE...............

What a great weekend we had. My cousin Allie got married. That means all sorts of characters were in town to wish her well. I love it when my dad and his crew come to visit us here.

I sometimes think that my kids look so alike, and then I see a picture like this and for some reason they look so different to me.

My grandpa Dan.... Doing what he does best. Napping only comes in second to drawing, playing the harmonica,and copping feels on unsuspecting grand daughters.

Blayke is such a hit with with the little girls. They love playing "mama" to her and Ivy both.

Cousin Allison got married last weekend and was such a gorgeous bride. Jax thought she was a real live princess and was too scared to go near her. Sophie wanted to know, "Why that lady wear a tutu to church"?

Here's proof that we were all there. In all our glory.

This little belly button is so funny to me for some reason.

Cousin love

Bustin a move

2010-07-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

Seeing how I for some reason never seem to be embarrased, even when I should be. Tori is always embarrased for me. At least someone is!

She is embarrassed when I am the only one dancing. When I bust out 80's routines. When I pretend I am Shakira, etc

It's taken only 7 years but Ross is finally over being embarrased for his wife..

It's our life

2010-07-23T16:40:00.000-07:00

Driving Miss Ivy... Eat your heart out Britney spears. My kids sit in the drivers seat sometimes too. Well, maybe just this once and I'm having a rough time getting her in her car seat ever since.

Everyone with children needs one of these. I can't imagine how nice my summer tan would be or all the books I could read while this jumpy waterslide babysat for me.

Backyard Carson girls and the Carson babies. I look like such a snot in this picture. It's cracking me up.

love it

2010-07-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

Jaxon and Carson are the cutest little cousin buddies. Jax loved having a buddy that was over the age of two and a boy........

Riley and Ivy were just kissing for the camera this time. I have a sneaky suspiscion that in 12 or so years this could turn into the real thing.The good news is that Ivy would have a rad mother in law.

Speaking of Mother in Laws... I just love mine and so do the kiddo's........

For your viewing pleasure

2010-07-17T00:04:00.000-07:00

Me and my team......... I could'nt ask for anything more (really)

Like I said before, "I need my own damn hammock"!

Ivy is madly in love with this orphan of a kitty. He sometimes gets dropped off in Tori's garage and his mother is nowhere to be found. We think she may be dancing with random green card seeking Europeans, but we don't know for sure. We all call him a different name. Ivy just refers to him as, "kitty, kitty".........

Can two men marry in Idaho?

2010-07-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

I laughed for 5 straight minutes when I saw this picture of Ross and Brogan. I don't think I've ever even seen a real gay couple looking this cute together. This is a classic picture for sure. The best part is that these two boys are so far from lovers it's not even funny!

Summertime in our hood...

2010-07-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

Ya Ya and john had a barbecue last night because some cousins were in town on their way to a mountain bike race in Colorado. This hammock is always the hit of the night. We all love it. I really need to get one asap.

I have battled this hammock before. A couple years ago while over at my in laws I proceeded to fall off this same hammock twice in one night. I was dead sober, scraped up my knees and felt like the coolest girl at the party for sure.

The only thing better than lounging in the hammock in the summertime would be having a midget to tickle your back while you swayed in the wind.

I'll let these pictures do most the talking... Who is this guy? I have no idea. Ross< Brogan and I went out in Jackson Saturday night and had way too much fun. So much fun that every picture besides these next ones have this mysterious cowboy in them. All we know for sure is this guy thinks Uncle Bryan was, "The baddest son of a B" to ever live.....

Fun times

2010-07-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

What else is there to do on the 4th of July besides??????

Sit on daddy's lap in the sunshine

Take random family photos, play kick ball, eat burgers, flag football and of course

light up some good old fashioned sparklers with your cousins..........

Fun on the fourth

2010-07-05T15:25:00.000-07:00

Breanne and her kiddos spent the 3rd of July with us. We had lots of fun and even attempted to see Glen beck with the whole slew of kiddos. We did'nt last long, but heard it was great........

In the morning we attended the, "Oh so painful parade".

Ross and I headed out on the town to celebrate our 6th anniversary!

Ivy loves to tan her little bummy just like her mommy.....

I did'nt exactly end up with a tan... I had three kids on my bed in this picture. One spraying vinegar out of a 409 bottle, the other two rubbing me down with lotion. It was the only help I could find...

I'm all healed now thanks to the Aloe plant from Ya Ya.........

Got goats milk?

2010-06-22T16:09:00.000-07:00

Jax and I had a secret one hour date the other day at the pool. I'm so in love with this little boy. i can't think of a better date in the world than eating ice cream and going for a swim...

My baby will be 5 tomorrow. I'm hoping he will snuggle me forever anyways...

If only I had my very own 7 year old to travel with me everyday to hand the baby girls their Binky's and entertain them in the backseat wherever we went. I just secretly wanted to keep little miss Hana.....

Sometimes I have to get out and embarrass my best girl with my famous moves.

We are vagabonds to put it lightly... This is our new pad.I love it just like I love all the others. I have such a great time making each new house "A Home"..

Tori and I had some wieners the other night and couldn't help but dive in to the fascinating reading material they have available for their most valued customers.

We just love looking at hot naked chicks while we feed baby goats and eat the most delicious weenies in town.

LAZY BLOGGER

2010-06-09T13:07:00.000-07:00

Lazy blogger is my new name. Hmmm, What's the most important things to write about? Rachel turned 50 and was so surprised to be sent for a spa day and surprised later on that night with a party at her house with her mom, sisters, kids, grand kids, and a bunch of friends. There's just nothing like a surprise that really is surprising! Ryan had a baby... Named him Chance. He's blond and rowdy. We had such a great time entertaining family at our house. We stayed up late every night laughing and telling stories. I caught a mouse in my pantry. Yippee. I promise the old blogger is still there inside me somewhere, I just can't find her today!!! I have a lot more pictures too I'm just having a hard time posting them right now because I don't speak computer mumbo jumbo. Maybe if I would have graduated from college I could! Life's rough when you have Giarrdia..

Hangin with Halle

2010-05-26T22:51:00.000-07:00

Halle spent a few days with us in the wild west and we had lots of fun. There were a few fights and several lack of sleep meltdown. Jax had such a great time that I think it might have even been worth the nasty pink eye he caught from Maddox.

Breanne came to pick up Halle on Sunday with Sophie and Maddox. Maddox vaccumed for 3 hours straight. He became so attached to the baby Dirt Devil that we let him bring it home. I wonder where he got that from?????????????

It snowed like crazy all weekend and so I was forced to get creative with some inside activities. This is the cute little cousin lovers with makeup on hoping to look just like Hannah Montana and Jack Sparrow! It's amazing how many hours of fun my makeup bag can produce.

We ate S'mores that we made with the help of the fireplace. Halle insisted on wearing my nighties everynight instead of her jammies. She is so old now. In the car on the way here she told me that there is a boy in her daycare that's 8. He thinks she's cute and asked her if she would marry him. Honestly, this is what she said when I asked her what she thought about that: "I really want to tell him that I think he's cute but I really think we should get to know each other a little better before we get married. Plus, I'm not sure if an 8 year old may be a little old for me".

The Graduate

2010-05-18T22:06:00.000-07:00

Ryan did it! the little sucker finally graduated. We went all by ourselves sans children for two whole days. I shopped without a stroller and tried to sleep in. We are so proud of our favorite graduate and wish him luck and love forever. To make a long weekend into a short story of a blog, here's the key parts in no paticular order. I apologize for the lazy blog and no explanation for the pictures. Just use your imagination!
- My mom gave Jaxon a buzz cut that made me cry.... He cried too!
- Ryan is a real life adult. Congrats Ryno
- Ross was the best shopper ever (this is rare).
- Granmonica is offically who I want to be when I grow up!
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Moms Rock!

2010-05-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

"ALL WOMEN BECOME LIKE THEIR MOTHERS. THAT IS THEIR TRAGEDY. NO MAN DOES. THAT IS HIS. - OSCAR WILDE, THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

Mothers Day was great this year... We ate lots of crab and devoured strawberry shortcakes. I seriously have the best mom and mother in law in the whole wide world. I'm not just saying that because they are the biggest fans of this blog either. I feel so lucky/grateful to have women like this teaching me and loving me by example.It's so funny to me how as we grow up and become mothers ourselves that we find ourselves turning into our own mothers right before our eyes. I could only be so lucky if I turned into half the mother my mom is!! Everytime I start to feel bad for myself when I have to take three little rascals into the grocery store I have a funny vision of my mom at Jazzercise class with me bouncing right next to her while my two little sisters were in a playpen on the other side of her. if my mom could manage a Jazzercise class with all three of her girls, then there is no excuse for not making it to the grocery store for me. I may even start excersising if Jazzercise came back. Maybe I'll just have to start my own class even if Ivy is my only client. I really just want to dress Ivy and I both up in those crazy workout outfits anyways. I HEART leg warmers!

"

The kids and I planted Rach an herb garden and put the kids finger prints all over it. I think she loved it!

Ya Ya and Ivy are turning into the best little friends........

T.G.I.F

2010-05-09T20:48:00.000-07:00

I have to get all the "kissin" that I can in while he will still let me!!!

I have a feeling Ivy will always be giving away her kisses to her daddy!

Friday afternoon started to get a little long so in order to entertain myself, I bathed the girls and styled their hair into funky "Charlie's Angels" wannabe do's! This is Blayke channeling her inner Jacquelin Smith. If you ask me, She is working it for sure!

And then there's Miss Farrah Fawcett (RIP). Ivy is just like my mom's poodle when she gets groomed. She is twirling around and dancing like a hoochie mamma when she gets her hair done......

You know you're real friends when you can share the same bath water!

Straight from the mouth of JAX

2010-05-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

Before I forget i just had to write a few of my favorite things that Jaxon has said lately...........
While watching the cartoon, Kai-Lan the other day he told me he was so sad that chinese people eat ducklings. It turns out they were talking about Dumplings! I'm pretty sure they eat both but I did'nt have the energy to go into that whole deal.

Jax asked me if Tori left her tools and her ladder in her car everyday when she came to drop off Blayke. I was so confused and asked why she would have those things anyways. He said, "well, I know shes going to work to make some circle monies(coins) and I bet she needs them when she gets to her job site". I told him she was not a construction worker and that she was a hair stylist. He said, "Mom, thats not a job! Moms just cut their kids hair because thats part of what moms do". I still crack up thinking that all this time he thought that tori was swinging a hammer all day long while scaling up and down a ladder.

At judo yesterday the kids were making a cute little art project to give to their moms for Mother's Day! He looked at me and said, "Mommy, I know you're my mom but do I have a mother too?" I guess I have never really used the word, "MOTHER" a whole lot!

Long time no Blog!!!

2010-05-04T19:38:00.000-07:00

Good little girls grow up to be wild wild women!!!!

I thought this was just the cutest picture of Ross walking Jax into the movie theater for a fun night with Bubba and PaPa Leo. They watched the chiltlins while Ross and I.........

Went to a great concert with a fun party afterwards at Vinno Rosso!!!!

May Day at MD Nursery was so adorable and the kids loved all the fun things they had for them to do. The baby chicks were a huge hit!

This is what the view from my rearview mirror looks like most days! Too cute....
This disease ridden mongrel got bstuck on our screen the other day and kept Jax entertained for at least an hour.

Jax and Blayke head out on a romantic stroll through the Driggs park!

Did I mention that Ivy is the biggest little roughneck I've ever seen! She's a wild one with an angels face!

Check it out, Mom!

2010-04-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

This ones for you Mom! So, Ross, Tori Jo and I stayed up way too late on friday night and did some hardcore painting! I love it... It looks so good that you should come and see it up close and personal!!!

Jaxon and I had our way with an old picnic table!!! It looks so great in the yard. I can't wait for the kids to eat thgeir lunch outside on it and do art projects galore!

daddy's shirt (DRESS)

2010-04-24T17:50:00.000-07:00

I am dying over these little dresses! My friend Jill makes these darling dresses out of mens shirts. This is what I call up cycling at it's finest... Ivy is wearing one of her daddy's shirts and has never looked cuter. Jill is so creative and has so many different versions of these hot little numbers! Every little girl needs one of these as far as I'm concerned!!! Want one? leave me a comment....

MOMMA'S BOY

2010-04-24T17:25:00.000-07:00

I just love my little "Momma's Boy"!!!

Jaxon loves his little buddies too!

I even love him when he's wearing his grill! (notice the medal in every picture?)

I've got to find a way to convince him to take this Judo medal off somehow! He has been wearing this thing for more than a week now and I honestly had to sneak it off last night when he was asleep. He is 100% convinced he is a "KUNG FU MASTER".. Whatever that means varies on a daily basis. I just love this little boy!!

Pamalicious

2010-04-19T21:18:00.000-07:00

So Pam and I go way back! Well,not exactly but I'm a major SUPERFAN for lack of a better word. When we found out that Witney was going to be on Dancing With The Stars Tori Jo and I became super horny (for lack of a better word)! We forced her to get pictures with our girl! Thanks again Whit....

How cute is she?

I love myself some Derek too! I am living vicariously through a 16 year old right now.

We were hoping Whitney would ask Jake "The Bachelor" why he picked that nasty Vienna! I'm still sick about that one. I swore off watching the Bachelor after that deal but I've said that a few times now and keep coming back for more torture!!! Did I mention that I'm also way to involved in the lives of reality show personalities?

40 nights!!!

2010-04-19T20:19:00.000-07:00

4o nights of this NBA playoff thing has reduced me to........

40 nights of this!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Spring may have really sprung around here. I have my fingers crossed at least and so does little missy!

We are once again praying for global warming in a huge way!! I will continue to double up on the aqua net just in case.... or maybe I'll just buy a Hummer.

Spring in the Snow

2010-04-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

We were all ready for soccer season to start... and then..........

We took a peek outside and asked ourselves, "Why in the hell do we live here"?

That next person I hear utter the words, "SPRING HAS SPRUNG" is getting a snowball to the dome!!!!

Mountain Mama spots a Grizzly

2010-04-11T18:16:00.000-07:00

Jaxon and I were on our way to Jackson Hole and got up close and personal with a huge Grizzly bear. I know the photo is lame but try clicking on it and making it bigger. Today I felt like a real Mountain Woman more than ever before. It was truly amazing to see a beast like this on your drive to Wendy's and the dollar store. He was eating a fish just minding his own business!