MOORE MINUTES

Happy Easter!

2011-04-25T21:35:00.001-07:00

I wanted to take a few pictures of the kids before church on Sunday. Anyone who knows my sweet little Noah knows that he is VERY stubborn. He decided to have a moment and I wasn't about to entertain him, so Audrey and I went out and took some pictures. As you look at this precious, perfectly posed little girl, imagine a screaming boy standing behind me. It was sooooo much fun! I look at the picture now and laugh. I think Audrey liked the camera all to herself.

Finally Noah calmed down and decided to join the group. I just love these pictures.

My precious little angels!!!

Soccer

2011-04-25T21:29:00.001-07:00

Noah started soccer. We have to bring his chair so he has something to sit in while he's on the sidelines. REALLY kid????? He can't just stand with his team?? Action photos will soon follow!

Party...

2011-04-25T21:26:00.001-07:00

Audrey was invited to a Fancy Nancy party. I think it about made her year!!!

She was so excited to get super fancy. I just love the pose!

Just havin fun!

2011-04-25T21:21:00.000-07:00

Finn is so entertained when the kids act silly!

HE'S MOBILE

2011-03-31T21:46:00.000-07:00

Well our Finnegan is mobile. I'm sure Audrey will be shortly missing some of her Barbie accessories and Holli will be finding them in his diaper. So here is a taste: Sorry for the narrator...he is on lots of allergy medication and forgot to get on the short bus this morning.

A Valentine Tradition

2011-02-28T21:06:00.000-08:00

The kids love our family Valentine's dinner, but they love the dessert even more! Our traditional chocolate fondue with lots of yummy things to dip. A messy face, must mean a happy customer!

Chewing on washcloths

2011-02-28T21:02:00.001-08:00

A favorite past time...

Our Brave Little Boy

2011-02-03T13:29:00.001-08:00

On Tuesday Noah had a makeover!

It still breaks my heart because at this point he had no idea what was going to happen. We explained (on a 4 year old level) what was going to happen. When we were at the hospital we even tried to make a big deal about the red socks - his favorite color and the bed with wheels!

Now he's getting a little nervous.
I didn't even cry until he went around the corner.

Bryan and I started wondering if he was hearing us completely. We dismissed it for a while just thinking "he's a 4 year old boy, of course he's not going to listen to us." But you know that feeling you get when you know something's not right with your child? I think we both had it, so we made an appointment with the Doc. Sure enough, lots of fluid in his ears (he's never had an ear infection) and large tonsils and adenoids. WOW!!!! We have also had sleeping issues with him too....could those large tonsils and adenoids be waking him up at night??? It wasn't an easy decision to send our little boy to the operating room, but in the long run we are hoping this will help him in many different aspects.

Blueberries saved the day!!!

2011-01-15T09:30:00.001-08:00

You know the kind of day when EVERYTHING goes wrong?? When you should have stayed in bed since you cost more money getting out of bed because everything you touched broke or was damaged? The kind of day when the only thing that went right was when the blueberries stayed in their little plastic container when all your groceries rolled around in your car??? Yeah...that was me the other day! The blueberries saved the day!!!

Christmas

2011-01-13T18:02:00.000-08:00

My three little monkeys!!!

Audrey's Dance Recital

2011-01-13T16:43:00.000-08:00

Audrey had her first dance recital in December. She was a Christmas tree and danced to the song "Oh, Christmas Tree." It was super fun to watch the girls on stage. Some stood there, some twirled a lot, and some just buried their face in their hands and cried. Audrey did a lot of twirling, but she wasn't shy on stage. I can't wait to see her spring recital!

She was in a funny mood when I was trying to take these pictures. I think she was just excited that she finally got to put on her costume and that she got to wear a little bit of makeup!

1st Ride

2010-12-26T20:52:00.000-08:00

NASCAR!

2010-12-26T20:51:00.000-08:00

Jewelery Box & Stroller

2010-12-26T20:34:00.001-08:00

Santa - 2

2010-12-26T20:32:00.002-08:00

Santa - 1

2010-12-26T20:32:00.001-08:00

Pajama's - Christmas Eve

2010-12-26T20:30:00.000-08:00

Reindeer Food

2010-12-26T20:28:00.000-08:00

Things from long ago.....

2010-11-23T16:42:00.000-08:00

Our little bundle of joy

Finn at 1 week.

He did so good for his first photo shoot! He didn't even poop on the props!

A very proud big brother.

There is a lovely story behind this little tuff of hair.
One day I decided that Audrey needed a trim, so I took it upon myself to play hair stylist. Audrey just loved getting her hair cut so much that a few days later I found these little piles of hair all around the house. My sweet little girl got the scissors and obviously wanted just a little more off the top.....and off she cut!

There was really nothing I could do but leave it alone and let it grow out.

I've never seen hair grow so slow......waiting and waiting.

Her first attempt at makeup, thank goodness she has A LOT of years to practice.
Kissed by a princess!

Hanging out by Grandpa's barn

While we were in Idaho this summer we had to hit the fair. One of my favorite things about the fair was face painting, so I found a booth and marched Audrey right over to it. I told her she could get anything painted on her face....a butterfly, a ladybug, a rainbow, a flower, and what does she want? A dragon!! A dragon??? Really, all those cute little girlie things and she wants a dragon. At least she feminized it by requesting a pink dragon with sparkles!!!!Noah was too busy playing on the tractors, good thing too, maybe he would have wanted a ladybug!

Riding with Grandpa in the combine

Finn's blessing

I had Noah's blessing outfit made from my wedding dress and wanted Finn's done the same way. We used the same overalls pattern and it turned out great!
This is not the blessing outfit, but it is Finn's Great Great Grandfather's blessing outfit. This dress, yes dress, is over 100 years old. We put all the grandkids in it and take pictures. I love this kind of stuff. To be able to share something with generations past is very special.

Audrey all dressed up for the special occasion

Noah and Grandpa

We were also able to visit my cousin this summer. The kids had a great time on the farm. They got to ride Smurf, watch the cows get shots, ride in the combine, and wear cowboy boots!!! Noah wouldn't leave these darn boots alone. I guess he felt like a real cowboy when he wore them. One morning I woke up to find him outside already sportin the boots. I think my cousin made his day when she said he could keep them!

Riding Smurf

Noah started soccer and loved it!

Go team TNT!

Happy Birthday Audrey! We love you so much.

Her purple flower cake

We told Audrey to make a wish in her head and keep it a secret. This is her wishing inside her head!

I have been so blessed this year. We have three amazing, beautiful children that make us smile and laugh everyday. Our Fireman will protect us and keep us safe, our bumblebee will chase away anyone and our little lobster is tasty enough to eat!

A Few Quick Pictures...

2010-07-12T13:38:00.000-07:00

Our first photo with Finn.

I just love pacifier prints!!!

All festive for the Fourth. Finn is actually wearing the shirt Noah wore for his first Fourth, and I have a picture of Noah looking the same way...they look pretty similar.

Not so much Finn, but that HAIR!!!!

ITS A.....

2010-07-01T17:19:00.000-07:00

BABY!!! Just kidding its a...little human! O.K. it's a beautiful (Handsome) BOY! Introducing Finn Bryan Moore (a.k.a. - Cowboy...don't ask). He came to this world @ 7:50 a.m., weighing 8 lbs 5 oz and measuring 19-1/4". He and Holli are doing great. There were no complication what so ever and the staff here at the hospital have been great. A few pictures for you viewing pleasure...

Mother's Day

2010-05-26T20:39:00.000-07:00

I am so grateful to be a mom! I can't imagine any job more demanding, time consuming, and tough...yet the most rewarding. There are days when I don't think I can keep going because I might just go insane....but that whisper "I love you" or that tiny little hand holding mine or that beautiful picture hand drawn by a 2 and 4 year old make it all worthwhile. I am so lucky and blessed to have these two little munchkins in my life. I am grateful that Heavenly Father has entrusted them into my care, they have really taught me what joy is!

Happy Birthday Noah!!

2010-05-12T13:05:00.000-07:00

Every year I am blown away at how fast the time has gone...this one is no exception.

My little boy is 4 years old!

Sticking out his tongue started early....

We asked Noah what he wanted to do and he said bowling. So we took him to the bowling alley where he bowled in the 80s (with bumpers) and got his first strike!!!

We asked Noah what kind of birthday he wanted and he said Jimmie Johnson. That was a little bit trickier. Basically Noah, Bryan, and Carson wore their Jimmie Johnson shirts and everything else was blue and yellow.

Happy Birthday sweet boy. As the years are flying by, we are so grateful you are in our home. We couldn't imagine a day without monster truck sounds. You've made us happier than we ever thought possible!

Audrey even got a present for Noah's birthday...a girl monster truck, which she was totally thrilled with!

She's here..

2010-05-06T16:53:00.000-07:00

My Niece if finally here!!!

Welcome little Natilly Jo.I was able to meet her just a few days after she was born.

It was so nice to spend time with my sister. I never thought we would have kids together since she was "done" before I even started...but I'm sure glad they decided to have another, I'll bet they are too!!!!

She is well cared for with two older brothers that totally adore her. Dallin even informed me that I was choking her when I was putting her pacifier in her mouth!
I can't wait to make one of these for my own!! I made this one for Amber but can't do anything until I find out what we are having. Not finding out really doesn't help with planning....I don't think I will do this again!

Our Dear Friend....

2010-04-28T16:03:00.001-07:00

We faced a long, hard decision last month and passed Cooper on to another family.

He was a great dog...mellow and loving, but he needed more attention.

He started out as the top dog in the family, but then we had Noah, then we had Audrey, and now we are having another and it's just been further down the ladder for poor Coops.

We ended up finding a great situation for him. He went to a husband and wife with no children, Cooper is now their baby. They had a beagle for 16 years before he passed and she was wanting another. Cooper gets to go to work with her and hangs out in the theater department of a local high school. The kids love him and he pretty much has free reign of the campus. He was the type of dog that didn't like to be alone which made this perfect for him.

We all hated to see him go, but knew this was so much better for him.

We still keep in contact with the lady that took him. She is great and mothers him to death.

Noah and Audrey still include him in their prayers...mostly saying that he'll be happy with his new family.

Coops as a puppy...

We recently had the chance to meet up with his new mommy at a park.

Has he adjusted well????

HE ACTED LIKE HE DIDN'T EVEN KNOW US!!!!

I mean come on....five years and all he wanted to do was sniff the grass. It actually helped us feel better about the situation. We know he is happy and getting TONS of attention.

One last photo with our first family dog.

Pregnancy Issues.....

2010-04-13T17:26:00.001-07:00

Here are the things I am dealing with....

No, I am not DRINKING Pine-Sol, but I am craving the smell. I did the same thing with Audrey. If I had literally wiped everything down in my house with it, I would bathe the walls in it. Now, I'm not that far gone....YET, but I wouldn't mind dipping some cotton balls in Pine-Sol and taping them to the bottom of my nostrils!!!

I haven't seen The Price Is Right in years, but it reminds me of something else.....EMOTIONAL! I don't cry to easily until the end of my pregnancy and with Noah the first time was over The Price Is Right. I was sitting in Jiffy Lube waiting for my oil change just casually watching an innocent Price is Right show when all of a sudden the darn contestant won a big amount of money. I was so happy for her I started crying!!!

REALLY???? I cried over that????

Recently I've been a little more emotional than normal and I just call them my Price is Right Moments.

Poor Bryan

Sewing for Easter

2010-04-09T22:10:00.000-07:00

I decided this year to make Audrey's Easter dress. I've always wanted to make one for her, but never seemed to have the time. This year wasn't much different, I just put it higher on my list. I guess I'm getting that "get things done" feeling with the baby soon on it's way.

I took some of the fabric from Audrey's bottom ruffle and made Noah a tie to match. They are both pretty proud of them, which makes me really happy.
This little girl just loves dresses and skirts. If she had her choice, she'd be wearing one everyday!

SHOCKING SECRET!!!!

2010-03-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

I'm going to tell you a shocking secret......

WE'RE PREGNANT!!!!!! (The purple color is NO indication of what we are having)

Yes, I know, for most of you out there, you had NO IDEA!!

I was terribly sick November, December, and January -have you ever had raisin bran come out of your nose??? It's no fun. Or your little 3 year old think it's cool that you're throwing up and chase after you every time just so he can watch???....So my blogging life has really been nonexistent.

Now that I'm back to enjoying food, I've decided to let the cat out of the bag!!

Can you tell if it's a boy or girl??? I guess time will tell.....

My Daughter, a CRIMINAL?????

2010-03-14T15:56:00.001-07:00

Who would ever THINK of putting handcuffs on this sweet little girl????

For preschool the other day we had a guest police officer come in and talk to the students. I thought this was the funniest thing...and they all loved it. Unfortunately, I didn't get a picture of Noah, I wasn't thinking camera until he had already been cuffed!!

Hopefully this is the only time I ever see them in cuffs!!!!

Making Cookies

2010-03-10T20:54:00.000-08:00

Since NASCAR was in town a few weekends ago and I was making cookies, we decided they should be called NASCAR cookies and we would make some to cheer on our number one guy, Jimmie Johnson.

I had no idea that every time the kids asked for a cookie they would now be referred to NASCAR cookies or Jimmie Johnson cookies.

I know what you're thinking....I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT'S UP WITH THAT SMILE!!!

We now call them LUCKY COOKIES....since Jimmie won the race while here in VEGAS!!!!

Quick Question....

2010-02-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

Why is it that when I'm pregnant my butt shows it faster than my stomach does????

Halloween

2009-11-02T19:54:00.001-08:00

The first of the Halloween celebrations began with our ward Trunk or Treat.

The cake walk was our first activity....Audrey won a cupcake the third time around while it took Noah about 12 times....and there were only 5-6 people playing at that time!!!! I kept asking him if he wanted to try a different game, but that persistent little bugger kept hanging on. I think the girl who was pulling the numbers felt sorry for him and helped his win along.

They wouldn't set those cupcakes down even for a quick picture!!
Minnie Mouse and Spiderman already getting their costumes dirty

We carved pumpkins a couple nights before the big day.

On the real night we went trick or treating with some cousins, got way too much candy, and completely wore ourselves out. By the end of the night I was carrying Noah to the last few houses. He was so tired he didn't want to go up to the last house. A couple times he even sat down in the middle of someone's driveway because he "needed a break."

Happy Halloween Everyone....from a very scary family!!!

Something's missing....

2009-11-02T19:50:00.001-08:00

Can ya find it????

If you guessed training wheels you are right!!! Yeah, I was totally shocked when Bryan told me to come outside and see something. Then Noah goes riding by just like he's been doing it for months. Bryan said he just took the training wheels off and held him up and off Noah went!!! No running behind holding the bike...just racing down the street.

I'm still amazed...

Making Pizza!!!

2009-10-21T20:42:00.000-07:00

Lately Noah has been fascinated with pizza....pictures, making boxes, triangle pizza shapes, eating it and just talking about it.

I decided to do a craft about pizza.

I cut two round shapes from a cereal box.

We colored the pizza red for the sauce and then I gave them a variety of different toppings: paper scraps, marshmallows, macaroni, and cereal.

What a blast!!!

They even put their pizzas in the oven to cook.

And when they came out we had to wait for them to cool off before we could eat them!!!

I must say, the kids did a great job and really carried this project much further than I had expected. I love to be creative with the kids, it's exciting to see where their imagination will take us.

Happy Birthday Audrey!!!

2009-10-16T22:49:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday little Ladybug

Her first Halloween....

I could never have imagined the joy I found in daughter.

I think Heavenly Father each day for blessing our family with your beautiful spirit.
My two precious gifts.

Still our Little Ladybug.

I asked Audrey what she wanted for her birthday, Ladybugs or Strawberry Shortcake. I even showed her a picture of each on the computer, I asked her the same question reversing the order....you know, sometimes they just say what you said first, no matter what it is. And each time she wanted ladybugs.

She wanted that doll out of the box immediately.

Two things that make Audrey special...

1. She has a tender heart and is always willing to share

2. She has the silliest sense of humor

Pumpkins all around....

2009-10-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

We took the kids to a pumpkin patch this last weekend.
There was a maze made out of hay bales, which wasn't too difficult since a toddler could see over the top, but the kids loved it.

Audrey's lost......

Noah just wants to climb out and go wreak havoc on something else.

In addition to lots of pumpkins, we saw turkeys, goats, chickens, quail, and bunnies.

My Heart Melted....

2009-10-12T13:55:00.001-07:00

When I came around the corner and Noah came running up to me and said "Look mom, I made BYU!!!"

Audrey's first trip to the Dentist

2009-09-21T13:30:00.001-07:00

This little girl is such a trooper!!! She did so good for the dentist. She even got an A on her report card!!!!! I thought she might do ok since she loves having her teeth brushed at home. Whenever she sees me brushing my teeth she wants her teeth brushed right away.

Noah's first day of Preschool

2009-09-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

Noah is growing up!!!

This was his first day of school. I can't believe he's old enough to do "school" things.

I'm a THIEF!!!!

2009-09-21T13:10:00.001-07:00

AND MY KIDS LOVE IT!!!!

I was blog hopping, again, and found this super cute idea that I just had to steal!!!

Every Monday is called Muffin Tin Monday and we eat our lunches out of a fun tin. This is the first muffin tin that I did, it's their basic lunch just put into a different container.

This website is amazing and she has some great ideas for the holidays....

I WILL BE STEALING MORE!!!!

If you want to join me here is a link to her page

Escape from the HEAT!!!

2009-07-19T15:35:00.000-07:00

For the Fourth of July we quickly raced out of Vegas to some cooler weather up north!!

Some pretty awesome fireworks in Idaho Falls!!! This is our standard family picture, sitting in camping chairs holding children...we have the same one from last year, only the kids are younger.

Noah and Audrey's at their newest little cousin's blessing.

Audrey loves brushing her teeth!!!

First time fishing.

I think he liked torturing the worm the most!!!

Standing on the side of Grandpa's barn. This picture just cracks me up...Noah yelling at Audrey, Audrey totally ignoring him....typical!!!

The kids had tons of room to race their jeeps, and they did....all day!!!!

Before I say anything about this picture, I am NOT complaining about the cold!!! We actually had to wear pants and jackets during the evening and I LOVED it!!

So the kids went swimming one day and when we got out we needed cover ups and a blanket to warm up!!! It was GREAT!!!

I kept reminding myself that it's 110 back in Vegas.

LAGOON!!!!!

This is just the cutest photo ever!

We told Audrey to hold her hands up on the ride and she did, what an obedient little girl!!!

Future pilot????

During meltdown time this was the only thing that calmed her nerves...and mine!!

We also had a chance to drive over to see my Aunt and Uncle, cousins, and family. The drive was long, the day was short, but we had a blast.

WARNING!!!

2009-06-23T21:13:00.000-07:00

Lots of posts ahead..............................

Happy Birthday Noah!!!

2009-06-23T20:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday little man!!!

Time really does go WAY TOO FAST!!!!

We love you so much and are so happy Heavenly Father sent you to our home.

First and foremost, that pink color was supposed to be RED!!! We did a Spiderman theme and instead of making a cake I did something a lot easier...a big giant cookie!

Noah is very into tools and fixing things...he loves helping Bryan in the garage. Needless to say, he has also pulled things apart...apparently he gets this from daddy.

THREE THINGS NOAH CAN DO WHEN HE GETS BIGGER:

1. Use the trimmer on the yard

2. Go to scout camp

3. Fly

Camping on Noah's Birthday....BIG MISTAKE!!!

2009-06-23T20:33:00.000-07:00

With the best of intentions, we took the kids camping for Noah's birthday. As you can guess, this isn't starting out well....We got in later than planned, didn't get the campsite we wanted and had to stay in an area dirtier than pigpen's bedroom, Audrey threw up the night we got there, etc....

Needless to say, we ended up leaving a night early-only staying the first night.

Noah's birthday breakfast!!! The big 3!!!

Audrey's turn in the pack, she loved it-same as Noah...why not, make Dad do all the work!!!

Why is it that kids will play in the water (and dirt) no matter how cold it is???

Poor Noah, I wanted this to be a fun birthday but we ended up miserable enough to leave early. We decided to go to dinner in St. George on our way home, hoping to make it up to him. I know he's only three and will never know the difference, I guess it was more for me. But they did sing a cool birthday song and brought out this saddle which put a huge smile on his face....it was all worth it!!!

Clark County Fair

2009-06-23T20:26:00.001-07:00

We took the kids to the fair (a few months ago) and they had a blast!!! I think the biggest hit was the animals. Audrey loved to look but not touch. Just a brush of the pig and she was done.

Noah was a little braver.

Maybe I lied...the Merry Go Round a big hit too!!!

Bike Riding

2009-06-23T20:17:00.001-07:00

One day a bunch of us took our kids to the church to ride bikes. They had a blast...I don't think they knew what to do with all the room.

Look out...crazy driver coming through!!

Messy Faces

2009-06-23T20:13:00.001-07:00

A while ago I gave Audrey a chocolate pudding cup. I noticed she looked a lot like Noah at about the same age.....

See the resemblance????

Garden

2009-06-23T20:06:00.001-07:00

A few months ago, we decided to attempt a garden....AGAIN.

And it's growing!!!

We planted corn, green beans, onions, carrots, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Since this photo we have enjoyed the tomatoes and on Father's Day we had a freshly picked bell pepper in our eggs!! Noah is now a HUGE fan of bell peppers. He asks for them in everything I cook....not gonna happen kiddo!!!!

Noah's Favorite Outfit

2009-06-23T19:42:00.001-07:00

I don't understand why....but I will get Noah dressed and he ALWAYS ends up in this by the end of the day.

Salad...

2009-05-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

Last night I got to enjoy the fruits of our labor....a tomato from our garden in my salad!!!

MISSING CHECK - $122,723.00

2009-05-06T13:10:00.000-07:00

Has anyone seen my check written out for

$122,723.00

I know I put it somewhere. I must have set it down while I was in the middle of doing dishes, wiping a snotty nose, cleaning the floor, changing a diaper, mowing the yard, kissing a boo boo, paying the bills, making dinner, doing the laundry, feeding the dog, bathing the kids, reading a story, mopping the floor, brushing some teeth, grocery shopping, or running the kids to the doctor.

Where is that darn thing????????

(As reported on the news, this is the amount a stay at home mom would make. For those working mothers out there....you need to be adding about $73,000 to your income!!!!)

Poor Jay Leno

2009-05-06T12:59:00.000-07:00

"Exhaustion," he said Friday, shaking his head. He added jokingly, "That's like a rich person's condition. Poor people that work – they don't get exhausted. Only rich people get exhausted. It's an embarrassing thing." (PEOPLE)

How sad....I feel so terribly for the poor (or should I say RICH) guy. He's just been working too hard. He needs a break!

Would someone please tell that to the mother who has stayed up all night with a sick child and then has to continue her regular schedule with her other 3 children the next day, oh, and continue to nurse that sick child back to health....or the mother to a newborn who hasn't slept a full night in 4 months?????

How about the father who is working 2 or 3 jobs just to keep food on the table for his family and clothes on his children's back???

But I guess us poor people will never understand that.

Potty Training EVERYONE!!!!

2009-04-05T15:07:00.001-07:00

As I mentioned in an earlier blog, we potty trained Noah a couple months ago!!! Well, when you talk openly about going potty everyone starts learning how....

This is what animals look like when they go potty - Noah

Half Marathon

2009-04-05T15:04:00.001-07:00

Finally after training for about three half marathons....I finally completed one last month!!!!

The week of the half marathon I wanted to do an easy run and then I got it into my crazy mind that I wanted to push myself really hard and run some sprints!! I mean, come on....they run sprints on the Biggest Loser all the time!! BAD IDEA!!! Four days before the race, yes, I know, many of you are saying....what are you thinking doing something like that so close to race day....I hear you Amber!!!! Well, I did...four days before race day I did some sprints on the treadmill, at least it's a little easier on my body...and when I got off my foot was a little sore. It didn't get any better...so I thought, I can't let all this training and preparation go down the tubes AGAIN!!! Open the bottle of ALEVE!!!!

That became my new best friend for the next couple days.

Morning of the race:

Feeling pretty good...hopped up on some pain meds

As the race is nearing the start Bryan says "I gotta go to the bathroom." I then ask him "How are you going to do that with the kids in the double jogger???"

We obviously had two different plans in our minds....He thought he might be able to go before the race started....countdown....4 minutes till start!!!

I looked over at a massive line for the porta potties...So I respond..."Well, get in line now..."

Bryan's standing in line and I'm waiting by the kids watching everyone else in the race begin to gather at the start line..."I sure hope he hurries," I tell myself.

Countdown to the start begins and I'm wondering....where's Bryan?

I decide to head up to the start, just in case I missed him coming out of the bathroom. I'm panicking....the gun goes off....there goes my race.....see ya fellow runners.....have a nice race.....maybe I'll just stand here and cheer them all on. I hear my name!!! Bryan appears out of the crowd.....see ya hunny....see ya kids..... and off I go, over three minutes late!!!

Coming down the dirt hill, twenty feet to go!!!!

Oh yeah....remember my foot issue???? No problems until mile 8...then I started feeling the pain!

My foot problem now????? FINALLY, it's feeling better. For about a month after that race I couldn't even think about running.

Moral of the story??? I'm not on The Biggest Loser!!

DONE!!!!

Oh, and that view behind me??? That's what I got to look at while I ran! Beautiful!!!

NASCAR

2009-03-30T13:55:00.000-07:00

Well, the men in my life have a lot of things in common...especially NASCAR! Noah has learned early to enjoy watching cars turn left...and left...and left....and left....REALLY FAST!!! Noah will even ride his little bike around the house and I have to say "Gentlemen, Start your engines!!" Then I have to sing the National Anthem, hand him his helmet, gas up his car, check the tires and fix the battery!!! This kid is ready to work in the pits!!!

Noah and Bryan doing a thumbs up for Jimmie Johnson!!!

Even though Kyle Busch won (the absolute LAST person Bryan wants to see win) they still had a really good time!

Far, Far Behind

2009-03-29T21:35:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am WAY behind in my posts!!! What have we been up to the last couple months???

1. Potty Training Noah!!! Yeah....no more diapers, we love our Cars underwear.
2. Our computer got a virus, that will set anyone back! Do people have nothing better to do with their time than create viruses that cause disaster for others??? If you need something to do with your hands try knitting!!!
3. We planted our garden!!!
4. I ran a half marathon!!! And I ended up getting some kind of foot injury.....
5. Bryan and Noah went to NASCAR

Making Cookies

2009-03-29T21:25:00.000-07:00

So this is really old....I think around Valentine's day. The kids and I made sugar cookies. Noah and Audrey got their own special ball of dough....not to be eaten by anyone else!!! Who knows how many times they licked their hands???? I think they just had a great time rolling out the dough.Noah was starting to get the hang of it.

This is about all Audrey did!!! Hopefully she becomes more domestic than this!!!
Before we began "playing." I had to take a picture of the first use of their aprons. I made these for them for Christmas. They both have a little growing to do. I hope they get a lot of use out of them!

It's A.....

2009-03-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

GIRL!!!???!!!!

No, we're not pregnant! I understand looking at a baby and wondering the gender, that's not a shocking thing, but when a baby is sitting in a swing at the park with pink boots (with flowers on them) a pink sweater, and a ponytail on the top of her head, wouldn't it be safe to assume that.....

IT'S A GIRL????!!!!?????

Unseen Hands

2009-02-09T13:29:00.000-08:00

The other night Bryan was taking the kids for a bike ride when the chain on his bike was giving him problems. He was trying to fiddle with it while he was still riding...causing him to slow down just a little. As he approached an intersection and looked up, a car passed right in front of him. The driver didn't stop at the stop sign or even notice Bryan as he was turning. When he came home and told me what happened we both knew the chain was having issues for a reason. Heavenly Father saw the danger approaching Bryan, Noah, and Audrey. I am so grateful to know my life and the life of my family is protected by unseen hands.

Another Nose Story

2009-02-09T13:27:00.000-08:00

I had to add Raisin the the list of things Noah has shoved up his nose!!! What is that kid's deal???? This time I was driving and had to pull over. Good thing he now understands how to blow his nose....that made it A LOT easier!!!

Watch Out!

2009-02-04T21:12:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged in a while, I was trying to take January a little easy. After the craziness of the holidays I needed to slow down a little bit. Here is my attempt to catch up. I still have more....soon to come!

JEEPING???? Is that what it's called???

2009-02-04T20:48:00.001-08:00

Blaine and Kate invited us to go "Jeeping" with them the other night.....I had no idea they had a secret plan to try to kill us!!!!

My initial thoughts "Oh cool, we'll go over some big rocks." The pictures don't show how deadly it was...I'm not kidding, my life almost ended that night (especially when they tried to hide the seat belts!!!)

And this is where it got ugly. Blaine was getting a little too crazy when the jeep started to slip and roll off to the side. This is the damage. Back passenger side....right where I was sitting, with my seat belt ON, mind you!!!

A Family Present

2009-02-04T17:11:00.000-08:00

In attempts to be more HEALTHY we decided to get a bike trailer for Christmas so the whole family could partake in the joy!!!

The kids sure look happy - why not???? They're not the ones doing all the work!!!!

Thanks Grandma Nanc and Grandpa!!! We think of you every time we're sweating our butts off!!!

A Christmas Present from Two Years Ago

2009-02-04T17:10:00.000-08:00

Not that I wasn't looking forward to this gift, things just took priority....pregnancy, newborn, etc.. So two years ago for Christmas Bryan got me a Richard Petty Ride-Along....totally AWESOME! This request came on the heals of watching Bryan drive a NASCAR. I wasn't completely comfortable driving one, I figured I would probably stall it taking off or something. And besides, when you drive one you only go about 130 mph, when your a passenger you get to go about 160!!!

A future NASCAR driver???? Fine with me!!!!

Getting acquainted with the car that would take me faster than I had ever gone!!!

I truly thought this could be the last time I hugged my son....all those thoughts go through your mind....what if a tire blows out, what if the driver got a little too wild and crazy last night (we did go early Saturday morning), what if I freaked and just dive bombed out of the window????

Would I recommend this???? ABSOLUTELY!

Christmas Part 2

2009-01-16T14:06:00.000-08:00

After packing up the truck with gifts and luggage for 9 people we began the long drive up to Idaho. Audrey was saved from the 10 hour drive by flying up with Aunt Jenny. Since she is under 2 and can fly free we decided to spare her the endless hours of boredom and constant dog kisses.

The entire time (no exaggeration) up north we dealt with snow. Enjoyable for the kids, just plain cold to me. Bryan is like a little kid in this weather. He would be snowboarding everyday we were up there if he could!!!!

When Noah looked out the window and saw Grandpa pull up on his tractor he would have gone out there naked!!! We literally had to pull him back to get a few layers on him!

All bundled up and no way to move! If she fell over someone had to come rescue her!!!! It was pretty cute.
Audrey found a new love....flying down a hill at record breaking speed!!!

At first I was pretty nervous, but when she finally slowed down all I saw was pure joy on her face.

Santa delivered a kitchen set for Audrey in Vegas, I guess he realized that mom and dad didn't have enough room to bring it back in the overloaded truck.

One of the many hits this year....a tent! It has already become a center for fighting.

Who doesn't love playing in wrapping paper????

This little mama sure loves dogs, real or fake! I really like this one - it doesn't smell, poop, or need to be fed!

Our happy family!! Oh, wait....where's Noah???? That's right, he was screaming and crying on the floor right by our feet. No one is going to make a two year old take a picture if he doesn't want to!!!!

After he was fed and ran around a little bit he turned into a nice boy just in time to play a game....coincidence????

All in all Christmas was great. It's amazing the way Christmas changes when you have children and are able to watch the excitement and joy in their eyes. One of the greatest blessings in my life this year is to have a healthy, happy family and days upon days filled with laughter and joy.

Christmas Part 1

2009-01-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

Yeah, if you hadn't heard...it snowed in Vegas.

We actually got it twice in one week!!! Monday and Wednesday, and the snow from Monday was still around when it snowed on Wednesday!!! That's got to be one for the records.
If you are noticing how horribly dressed my children were for the snow....well, who would spend money on a snow suit when your children have never seen snow at their house!
I must say they managed. Poor Audrey was soaking wet, but loving every minute of it.
When Bryan got home from work I would have thought that they cancelled school. He was giddy and couldn't get into his snow stuff fast enough. We got the kids all bundled up headed out to make a snow man. Noah was a little concerned that we left a carrot out in the snow and Audrey still didn't want to come in.

JUST WONDERING.....

2009-01-02T13:22:00.000-08:00

How can a child create a HUGE mess out of a little dallop of ketchup???

Noah hanging Christmas lights???

2008-12-17T14:12:00.001-08:00

I'm sure in a few years this will be helpful, but at two I don't think it's anything but nerve wracking!!!

Mommy Moment #7

2008-12-17T14:00:00.000-08:00

I was standing in the closet putting a dress on when Noah came in and in the most enthusiastic voice said "Mom, are you Cinderella???" (He's already learning how to butter me up!!!)

Santa Claus is coming to town....

2008-12-12T09:31:00.001-08:00

Last night we took the kids to see Santa!!!

Noah was actually pretty excited to see him. He kept looking through the glass door saying "Santa! Santa!"

We were a little worried about how Audrey would react. She was a little nervous at first. I think the courage of Noah helped her for a few seconds....and then.......

Yup, within seconds she looked like this!
Noah told Santa he wanted a sucker for Christmas, that should be easy. The whole way over to visit Santa we told him that he needed to tell Santa what he wanted for Christmas and he kept telling us he wanted tools.

I think Audrey looks much happier with the fish than with Santa.

Christmas Fun!

2008-12-10T14:06:00.000-08:00

The other day we did a bunch of Christmas stuff around town. The Bellagio always has a beautiful display around the holidays. We also went to see Santa but he was out feeding his reindeer....we were so hungry that we couldn't wait, then we went to Ethel M's to see the amazing cactus garden. I think there were more lights this year than last. And we topped it all off with a nice, warm cup of hot chocolate (actually it was scalding hot!)

One more thing I am grateful for....

2008-12-08T10:04:00.000-08:00

This is Bryan's breathing machine!

How would you like to roll over at night and see that on your husband's face???

But, it sure is the sweetest when it's totally silent while you're sleeping.

Bryan has severe sleep apnea which has been a difficulty for all of us. Poor guy doesn't get any sleep at night and I can't sleep because of the loud snoring. If I so happen to wake up in the middle of the night and he's snoring, good luck getting back to sleep.

But....

since that mask has come into our lives we are soooo much happier. If anyone out there has a spouse or you yourself might suffer from this problem, it's actually pretty common, PLEASE go take care of it. Go see your doctor, it's very very very unhealthy to sleep like that!!!

You'll be amazed at the difference!

GRATITUDE

2008-11-29T21:20:00.000-08:00

What am I grateful for this season????

AWESOME!!!!!

Veteran's Day

2008-11-12T13:19:00.000-08:00

Joseph Ambrose, an 86 year old veteran attends the dedication day parade for the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial. He is holding the flag that covered the casket of his son, who was killed in the Korean War. (Wikimedia)

Yesterday was Veteran's Day.....THANK YOU!!!!

GUILTY.........

2008-11-06T09:45:00.000-08:00

I KNOW I'm not the only one either!!! I've started listening to Christmas music. Actually, I've been listening to it for a while. Why should we limit ourselves to just one month out of the year to those beautiful songs? Bryan thinks I'm skipping Thanksgiving but I like to think that I'm enhancing it; I'm expressing my gratitude for the birth of the Savior and the gifted artists who sing about Him.

Naughty or Nice??

2008-11-02T16:00:00.000-08:00

No, not for Christmas....for Halloween! I figured these costumes fit perfectly. Noah is two and a half and Audrey is one...need I say more???

Our sweet little angel

Why when I put a bow or clip in her hair she instantly pulls it out, but when she had her costume on she left her halo completely alone?

Our fiestly little devil

They both loved trick or treating. Noah couldn't get the candy fast enough, sometimes grabbing two fistfulls (that's my boy!) Audrey was as content as can be just carrying around her basket.

Halloween Fun

2008-10-30T13:31:00.000-07:00

The other night we had some friends over to make some halloween treats. Here are the results...

Rice Krispy Treat Spiders

Sugar Cookies
And Graveyards
Noah had a great time and I can't wait to do more fun stuff with him this holiday season.

This one's for you Jenny!!!

2008-10-30T12:44:00.000-07:00

My friend Jenny helped me make a tutu for Audrey for her birthday. The funny thing is, I never saw her in person...she helped me completely through email and phone calls. Don't ya just love modern technology? Well, here is the picture you've been HOUNDING me about :)

Yee Haw....

2008-10-24T13:54:00.000-07:00

Last week the kids and I went to Texas for a family reunion. I don't get to see my family in that part of the country very often and always look forward to visiting. Unlike any other trip, this was probably the toughest and most difficult. I had a two year old and a one year old in a very non child proofed home. And anytime you take a vacation with kids it's difficult because their schedules get all wacked out!!! The kids did really well considering.

This was also a very sentimental trip because my grandma's house is going to be sold. There are A LOT of memories in that house (50 some years) and I often thought about my dad living there as a little boy. My grandparents had that house before he was born. My grandma is now 87 years old, my grandfather and an uncle have passed away. But the thing that always touched me when I was in that house was knowing that they all lived there, they walked the hall, sat in that living room and slept in the bedrooms from newborns to high school age. Visiting that house helped me feel connected to a time that I never knew.

Sweetie Pie in front of my Grandma's house

Joe Cool, or something like that.....

Our little Patriot

My Grandpa pitched from this mound while my dad and his friends would hide under the bleachers collecting bottles to turn in for cash

Hair Issues...

2008-10-23T12:13:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has had kids...did your hair change after your baby? Before I had children I could get out of the shower and comb through my hair with ease. It literally took me 30 seconds - my hair was smooth and easy. Now it's a wreck, it takes me 10 minutes to comb through all the tangles. I don't understand....is this weird?

MM #6

2008-10-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

A few days ago when we were driving we passed a Hooters. Noah perks up and says "Look, an owl!!" That little boy knows his animals!!!!!

FIRST BIRTHDAY!!!

2008-10-22T13:21:00.001-07:00

She's ONE!

I am completely amazed at how fast it has gone.

Noah learned how to sing "Happy Birthday to Audrey, Happy Birthday to you!" just for this special day.
I made a little cake for Audrey and individual cupcakes in ice cream cones for everyone else.
She was cautious at first, just eating the frosting, but eventually she got her hands smashed in it - with the help of Dad.
Audrey loves the rocking horse. The other day she was rocking so hard that she dove over the front of it....got a little red mark on her face.

First Ponytail!!

2008-10-14T13:43:00.000-07:00

Yeah, you have to look really closely, but it's there! I have been playing with her hair for a while and decided that it might just work, so she wore her first ponytail to church last week.

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-09T14:53:00.000-07:00

We took the kids to the pumpkin patch today. For some reason Noah loves pumpkins. He screams, yells, points, jumps up and down everytime he sees one, so you can imagine how excited he was when he saw a whole patch of them. We couldn't get out there fast enough.

Camping

2008-10-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

Noah went camping with daddy last weekend and despite the wind, rain, and fallen tents, he had a really good time. Bryan said he thinks he's one of the "big boys" when he's with the scouts.

Simple Pleasures

2008-10-03T11:45:00.001-07:00

Why oh why....with a room full of toys would she rather play with the box?

Homemade Bread and Jam!!!

2008-10-03T11:42:00.000-07:00

I went to my friends house the other day and we made bread and jam!! We ground our own wheat....no seriously, we did.... and then made wheat bread and strawberry jam. I have to slow the kids down on eating all the bread, they just love it.

Next thing you know I will be growing my own wheat.

Couldn't be more proud!!!!

2008-10-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

This morning when I was getting dressed Noah asked what I was doing. I told him "getting dressed hon." "But what's that?" I said "My BYU shirt" He then repeated BYU a couple times and the crowning, glorious moment came when he said "I want to go BYU!" What a great little kid....

THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH!!!

2008-09-28T17:31:00.001-07:00

This weekend we took the kids to Disneyland and what a blast! Noah has technically been there before...I was two months pregnant with him the last time we went, but this time he got to ride in person!! I was pretty surprised that even Audrey got to ride most of the rides. This trip was all about doing fun kid stuff, we only rode two adult rides, and our day was completely filled up! The park was decorated Halloween style, Noah loved looking at all the pumpkins.

I just love his funny face.

Sitting pretty in Minnie's house.

BEACH FUN!!

2008-09-28T17:21:00.001-07:00

As part of our trip to California we decided to spend a little time at the beach. We went to Huntington to play in the sand and splash in the waves. Noah had a blast!!! And Audrey was such a trooper.

Audrey LOVED the sand. She didn't make a peep when it cooled off and got really windy.
We weren't planning on going swimming, but with a two year old "just get your toes wet" doesn't work too well!

NASCAR Truck Races

2008-09-23T20:45:00.001-07:00

Checking out the fast cars!!! He was in heaven!

He did really good during the whole race. I was a little worried the he might get bored or want to go.

Where's Noah?????

2008-09-23T20:31:00.001-07:00

At the very end of the race...we're talking the last 2 laps everyone was standing up and cheering, wanting to see a good ending. Well, we sure got one...Bryan looked around and said "Where's Noah?!!!!!" Panic like I've never felt before. Instantly my heart was racing!!!! I looked all around where we were standing then took off down the stairs to the nearest portal/exit. Bryan went to the other side and up the stairs. I wanted to check the exit (if he did get to an exit) so he couldn't get any further away. Frantically looking around all the people leaving, remember this was the end of the race and some people like to start hiking it to their cars before the "big" crowd leaves, so there was a good amount of people I was searching through. No Noah......so I ran back up the stairs to our area. By this time I had tears in my eyes, "I just saw him two seconds ago" "I love that little boy so much, I have to find him." In the mean time Bryan was looking up, thinking that Noah would probably go up the stairs rather then down. As I was coming up the stairs I saw a man holding Noah coming down my side!!! I don't remember even running, but somehow I got to the man in about two seconds! I thanked him and just held Noah. Wow, I can't express the panic I felt in the three minutes he was gone. I'm just so grateful that a caring person found him took care of him.

Tagged

2008-09-22T21:17:00.000-07:00

4 Jobs I've had...
1. Mommy
2. History Teacher/Cheer & Cross Country Coach
3. Server
4. Aerobics Instructor

4 Movies I've watched more than once...
1. The Bourne Series
2. Pirates of the Caribbean Series
3. Goonies
4. Replacements

4 Places I've lived....
1. Washington
2. California
3. Colonia Juarez, Mexico
4. Arizona

4 TV shows I watch
1. Dancing with the Stars
2. Lost
3. Office
4. Amazing Race

4 Places I've been...
1. Niagra Falls
2. Puerto Vallarta
3. Boston
4. Washington D.C.

4 People who text me regularly...
1. What is texting....I know that's so bad, but I had to get Bryan to help me answer a text the other night!!!

4 of my favorite foods...
1. Ice Cream
2. Cafe Rio
3. Mexican
4. Cheesecake

4 Places I would like to visit...
1. A spa for a week
2. Taj Mahal
3. Mediterranean countries
4. Ruins in Mexico and Peru

4 things I am looking forward to in the coming year...
1. New memories with my family
2. Buying a minivan (that may take convincing Bryan)
3. Overcoming new challenges
4. Inheriting a million dollars from some long lost relative!!! Wait that didn't happen last year either...hmmm

Friends I'm tagging....anyone who wants to do this.

Water Fun

2008-09-14T14:04:00.001-07:00

Noah would play in a sink of water all day if I let him, so I decided he needed a toy one to play with outside. He loves it and Audrey can join in the fun, although the poor girl gets splashed a lot more than she wants!

Isn't she just too adorable?

What kind of kid wants to wrap up in a towl because he's cold in 95 degree weather?????

She did it!!! She's been working on this car forever. She can finally climb in herself and close the door! Now if I could only get her to wash the dishes.....

Just to see you smile....

2008-09-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

Yeah, they're diapers.

Noah thinks it's the funniest thing to put diapers (unused, of course!!!) on our heads. So the other night all four of us were walking (well, Audrey was crawling) around with diaper hats.

Future Fireman??

2008-09-04T14:29:00.000-07:00

Noah toured a firestation this last weekend and hasn't stopped talking about it! He woke up from his nap one day just going on and on about firetrucks. He was able to see the trucks (the highlight) he watched the firemen dress in their suits, and he even got to hold the hose...as you can tell he's not holding on too tightly!

As we were leaving Bryan heard one of the firemen say "That boy was running around like crazy!!" That's our Noah!!!

MM #5

2008-08-27T13:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Noah and I were putting a Dora puzzle together when two pieces broke apart Noah says "Mommy, I broke Dora's bum bum!"

DATE NIGHT!

2008-08-27T13:34:00.001-07:00

At the Cannery????

Yes, being the lovely wife that I am I decided to pick our date this week (don't get me wrong, we do not go on dates every week) and I thought what great fun it would be to go can food!!! I think Bryan thought I was crazy! I probably am. Our ward was signed up to go to the cannery and husbands were invited to attend...light bulb goes on in my head....we can do that! It would be something different and no matter what we're doing we can come up with some way to laugh. We laughed at the hairnets, we laughed at the workers in the cannery being very serious with us when we spilled a little, we laughed when the big machine spun around to seal a can of wheat and I didn't have the lid on right so it sprayed wheat all over, we laughed when we did bags and bags and bags of flour.....

And then we cleaned up!!! I'm grateful for such a great husband who puts up with me and is such a good sport, and doesn't mind when I take my camera everywhere! It was a lot of fun and I would suggest it to anyone looking for a fun, different date....plus we added to our food storage!

BIG HIKE!!

2008-08-27T12:39:00.000-07:00

Last week Bryan was able to go with the Scouts to do an amazing hike, The Narrows. I must say I was a little upset when I found out he was going, I've been wanting to do this hike for years and the closest I've come is starting from the bottom and hiking my way up for a few miles. He said it was one of the most beautiful hikes he's ever been on. I'm sure being there in person is a lot more breathtaking!

Here they are getting ready to hike in....16 miles of beautiful torture! They camped overnight in the canyon and finished up the next day. Bryan described the hike as walking on bowling balls. Your crossing water, zig zagging back and forth, constantly slipping on rocks. Your ankles are continually rolling from the unsteady footing. The day after he got home he was pretty sore and his ankles really felt it. But I am so proud of him for completing the hike....Good Job!!!

Isn't it just beautiful?

I Just Love Her....

2008-08-19T21:28:00.000-07:00

Audrey started this new thing, she will lift her shoulder, tilt her head and smile....it's the cutest thing and I've been trying to get pictures of it. She makes me smile everytime she does it....