These are Days to Remember

Visitors

2011-04-12T23:17:00.000-07:00

Chase and Lanie

All the kiddos and Buster having a Creamie!

Megan and Buster

We had some visitors a few weeks ago. Ben's sister came with her husband and son Chase and their cute dog.We had a blast and wish it could of been longer. Megan is in love with her cousins dog named Buster.Just look at that smile. She would love a dog or any kind of animal. But she will have to settle with her gold fish Alex for now. It's a good thing that both our neighbors have a cat or a dog that she can play with anytime she wants. We had fun entertaining Chase and Buster for a day. We went to two parks and played the whole day! Jaden loved having another boy around to even up his playing field.

Updates!

2011-03-30T15:38:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few updates : 1- We moved again!! But this time alot less stressful. 2-Ben is really enjoying his new job @Fidelity. 3-We miss our friends in California but feel lucky to be closer to family. 4-The kids are liking their new school, and have made friends quickly. 5-We have enjoyed the snowy weather here and have taken advantage of sledding every chance we can get.And the kids love eating the snow too! 6-The kids are now on a 5 week spring break( I hope I don't pull all my hair out before they go back to school). It has only been 3 days so far and we are staying busy going to all the fun parks, and library. 7-Ben's grandma passed away and it was a sweet experience for our family. We will miss her. It was also nice to be all together with Ben's siblings again. We also got to see my family too. 8-Well, that is all for now, I will post some fun pictures as soon as I figure out how with my new camera I got for Christmas. Hope everyone is doing well. And I promise to keep you all updated more. If there is even anybody who does read this anymore.LOL.

What do the numbers 31 and 16 mean?

2010-10-05T16:09:00.000-07:00

USU 31 BYU 16! It is okay to brag every 17 years or so isn't it? I would also say it is okay to update your blog every month or so. So here is our most recent update - not necessarily in chronological order since July 4th. Yikes!!

4th of July!

2010-07-11T17:05:00.000-07:00

We had a really enjoyable weekend leading up to and a few days after the 4th of July. We went camping near Lake Tahoe with Ben's Sister Melissa, her husband Chad, little Boy Chase, and dog Bear over the 4th of July weekend. As far as camping is concerned, we had a great time swimming, playing horseshoe's (they take it serious in Tahoe), video games, and basketball, and overall catching up. Tahoe Valley Campground was an excellent host. It is a good thing when Jaden isn't bored. We watched the Fireworks on the Lake, ate our fair share of strawberries and of course too much good food, learned to play the new game Monopoly Deal and wished we were already retired.

Then.....we came home just in time for Ben's brother JR, his wife Aubree, and kids Carson, Brenner, and Avenlee to come visit. We showed them around the foothills near Modesto, went fishing at a trout farm, panned for gold, visited an old fashioned candy store, of course ate too much food, played even more Monopoly Deal, went swimming, and watched Brenner nearly puke over the smell of fish guts. Our only regrets are that either trip didn't last long enough and that we didn't have any more room for pictures in the camera. Aubree, can you send us your copies? Why can't good things last very long?

Us all at Tahoe Valley Campground!

Roasted marshmellows always make you smile-

Can you relax any more? Can I get you something to drink?

How many strawberries can you eat at once, let alone in 4 days?

Our Perch on Lake Tahoe for the Fireworks!

This is where the camera memory card is full! One of the fish we grilled after our visit to the Trout Farm! Would you believe that all of the kids liked how it tasted?

Half Insane or Half....

2010-06-28T22:54:00.000-07:00

Is someone insane if they decided to hike to the top of this?

Via these?

What about if they saw this when they got to the top?

And felt like this?

Last week Ben and a couple of guys from our ward hiked to the top of half dome. It was everything physically and mentally that he thought it would be, and more. It was nice for a few minutes to feel like you were on top of the world. I hope you enjoy some of the other pictures we encountered while hiking.

2010-06-28T22:14:00.001-07:00

Look Who's Two!

2010-06-22T13:22:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby is two already.....

She loved her birthday hat from nursery and her barbie from Mackenzie...

She loved opening her presents but had to go hide under the entry way table so megan wouldn't open them first...

Everytime we sang the happy birthday song she would say "Cha Cha Cha" and clap.

We celebrated her birthday at the park with a few friends! We love you Lanie Bugs and you bring us so much joy and Happiness into our family. You are so sweet!! XOXOXO

Happy Mommy's Day!

2010-05-10T15:30:00.000-07:00

I feel so blessed and Lucky.

I had the most wonderful Mother's Day! Lanie kept saying Happy mommy's day, it was so cute! I love that little girl. I got spoiled with flowers , and breakfast served in bed, a yummy dinner and a necklace and earrings that matched. Plus lots of fun cards from school and church! We had a great day going for a walk and playing games and wrestling until we couldn't laugh anymore. I have the best job ever !

I love you guys!XOXOXO

Happy Mother's Day to everyone! I have the best MOM who has Always been there for me and has been my number one fan. I'm also so blessed to have the BEST mother in law, she is amazing and I am so glad she is my mom too!

P.S. After a random drawing, we announce that Aubree is the winner! Thanks everyone for all the good laughs and the fun memories!

100th Post!!

2010-04-05T13:12:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe We made it to 100 posts!!!!.Anyways, I am not very creative but some of our family and friends do something cool for their 100 post. So I was thinking that if you would like to win a gift card to Cold stone, then leave a comment and add one funny memory of either Myself (Nat) or Ben or the kids or the whole family if you would like.We look forward to reading your commments. Then we will pick a winner!! GOOD LUCK!
PS. This will end on April 24th.

March Madness

2010-03-07T16:37:00.000-08:00

The pictures and videos to follow is Modesto's version of March Madness. It won't resemble what is about to take place in College Basketball but that is okay. Megan and Jaden were both in a 6 week basketball clinic and they loved it. It was fun to watch them play and as parents it was even more enjoyable that it didn't last for 3 months. We did have to paint a 3 point line out front just so the kids can count down their own winning shot. We can't wait for the real Madness to begin so we can all fill out our own bracket.

Look at that technique!

I know lousy video with the coaches in front but we were proud of Megan by not backing down to the bigger boys.

How about that defense? Jaden was really fun to watch. He couldn't hardly stand it when the games were over each week.

Congrats to the Aggies on their 3rd straight WAC Regular Season Conference Title. Utah State Hey Aggies all the way. Go Aggies, Go Aggies, Hey Hey Hey!!! Now let's win a game or two in the NCAA Tourney!

Life with 3 kids

2010-02-07T20:31:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the Break -

2010-01-31T17:10:00.000-08:00

We apologize for the break from blogging. It has been a while since we posted anything. We know it is the same for everyone else but at the end and the beginning of the year it just seems like the days and weeks go by so much faster. What have we been up to lately? Some of Ben's family got together at Ben's brother's house in Arizona for Thanksgiving. We had a great time! We hiked, swam in the pool, played games, ate a ton, and watched the kids exhaust themselves. As always it didn't last long enough.

Us seeing the lights at the Arizona Temple. Notice the shorts, nothing like being in warm weather.

Most of our time is taken by 3 energetic kids. Lanie is tearing apart the house cupboard by cupboard and room by room all while trying to escape the motherly care of Megan.

By the look on her face she evaded Megan for a few minutes. No, she didn't fix the disposal but looks are decieving.

The kids were out of school and Ben had the day off work for Martin Luther King Day so we decided to drive up to the foothills and see if we could find snow. It has been raining a lot the last few weeks so it wasn't hard to find it. A word of advice if you are hunting snow. At least dress the part in case you find it. We played in it for 10 minutes and then got back in the warm van.

It is a good thing we didn't play longer because it really started snowing and we didn't take chains with us. We miss seeing the white stuff but I don't think we miss living in it or driving in it.

Jaden had his 1st Pinewood Derby last week. He designed his car to look like a Police Car (the MPD on the back stands for Modesto Police Department). Too bad it wasn't as fast as a police car and I will say we could use more of these type of cars around here.

We have also done our fair share of being lazy, watching movies, and playing games. It is a good thing school has started again.

Jaden and Megan have also been playing basketball. The next post will have to be some pics and videos from their games.

So Blessed

2009-12-16T14:37:00.000-08:00

I was going to update the blog as soon as we got back from our trip to AZ. We went there for thanksgiving (those pictures are coming). But when we got back life just hasn't been the same. But I mean that in a good way. I was called to be The New Relief Society President. Our friends who aren't of the LDS faith this means a very big responsibility in our church. I have been very humbled and overwhelmed, and humbled and shocked and an emotional wreck. But it is starting to sink in now. Now, If only I still didn't feel like I am in trouble every time I talk to the Bishop then I will be okay! LOL. That will come and so will everything else as I put my trust in the Lord. I am so thankful for such a wonderful and loving and supporting husband. Who has been there for me! I am trying not to PANIC! I am just trying to take one day at a time. I do feel so blessed to be able to serve and have already seen the Blessings it has brought to our family! I will post some new pictures soon...

I love this quote:

"I feel to invite women everywhere to rise to the great potential within you. I do not ask that you reach beyond your capacity. I hope you will not nag yourselves with the thoughts of failure. I hope you will not try to set goals far beyond your capacity to achieve. I hope you will simply DO WHAT YOU CAN DO IN THE BEST WAY YOU KNOW HOW. If you do so, miracles will come to pass." Pres. Hinckley

All I can do is my best! And the lord will help me with the rest.

October Fun

2009-11-07T15:24:00.000-08:00

The kids getting ready for the Trunk or Treat at our church.

We have a ballerina, Lady Bug and Mario. J is not to happy because I made him wear the mustache in the picture. But Lanie bugs is...

J decided to paint his pumpkin like Tylung on KungFu Panda. He did a good job.

Megan really got into carving pumpkins this year.

One night we made these spider cookies. They were fun to make.

Trick or Treating on Halloween. Megan loves to take pictures with Jaden.

Getting ready to go out Trick or Treating with some of our friends.
They had a blast running from house to house and got ALOT of candy!!

Our Cute little Lady Bug.

We have had a very fun and busy month.

Playing pass the Hot pumpkin game. Carving pumpkins. Making cookies. Going to their School Fall Festival. Trunk or Treating and Trick or Treating and Surviving Ben being good for 5 days. I love October and can't believe it is already over.

Oh to be Eight!

2009-10-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Jaden turned 8 years old! It does not seem like he is 8, nor does it seem like he was born 8 years ago. Sorry to say it again but how time flies.

When turning 8 in the LDS Faith comes the decision whether or not to be baptized. Jaden not only decided to be baptized but he was able to be baptized on the day of his birthday, October 3rd. We had a wonderful weekend with several family members coming to participate! Ben's parents came along with Ben's sister, Lisa, and her daughter, Ella. Natalie's parents came along with Natalie's sister, Lori, her son, Laran, and their friend Danielle. We had a relaxing BBQ and party at the park on Friday. On Saturday we went to the Farmer's Market before Jaden and Megan's soccer games. In the afternoon was the Baptism and that evening we had cake and ice cream and Jaden opened some presents. The weather was perfect.

On Sunday we all relaxed and watched General Conference. During and in between all of this we ate plenty of food which of course included lots of Fruits and Veggies from Lindon, Utah. Happy Birthday Jaden and Congratulations on your big day/weekend/decision!

Mom and our sweet boy

Do you see any drool? Dora does

The Lego Lovers!!

How happy is he? And he read every single word in every single card before opening the presents!

Like Father Like Son

A small portion of our great families

Thanks to Aunt Lisa and Ella for the awesome candy gram and decorated door

Our two favorite soccer players

The surprise birthday door

We love you Jaden!!

Wicked Weekend!

2009-09-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

So not only was Wicked cool but so was the rest of the week and weekend. As mentioned in the Wicked Post; Lisa, Byron, and Ella came to visit. We had a great time driving through San Francisco, hanging out, visiting Modesto's Splash Parks, Disc Golfing, playing cards and games, eating lots of food (we had to visit In N Out more than once), watching football, going to the Farmer's Market, and visiting the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk followed by a relaxing drive up Highway One on the coast. The only thing is that time went by way too fast!

Gotta love those San Francisco Streets

Natalie and Lisa Showing off their Wicked Shirts

Megan and Ella at the Splash Park

Watching Princess Movies in Princess Pajamas

Belle and Cinderella

How about that view

Notice Natalie is the only one wearing a sweatshirt

Lanie learning to surf

A good view of the Beach and Boardwalk

A view from Highway One

WICKED

2009-09-17T16:28:00.000-07:00

Just look how excited Lisa was to go...

Last night I went to Wicked!! It was so cool. I have been smiling all day because I loved it so much! I went with Ben's sister Lisa and her husband Byron. It was a really good show. I have heard how good it is but until you see it yourself you have no idea how great it is!!! If you get the chance it is well worth it. "Ga lenda" was so funny and Elphaba was so amazing. Lisa and Byron and I can't stop talking about it. Wahoo! We loved Wicked!!
P.S. Bryon says " It was Wickedly Awesome!

Giants Game

2009-09-12T21:50:00.000-07:00

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we took the kids to a Giants game.

A couple of weeks ago we went to a giants game. It was so fun! The kids just loved it. They loved going on the B.A.R.T. and thought that was way cool, even when we went under the ocean. It was so HOT, I planned on it being cool weather because it is always chilly in San Fransico but not at an afternoon game- we all got sunburned. The kids actually sat there and watched the whole game and Lanie even took a nap in my lap. We ended the day with a hamburger and shake at In -n- Out, what a perfect day!

It's Fab to be 5!

2009-08-31T21:27:00.001-07:00

Can't Belive you are 5 already! We have loved every minute with you.

Listening to her new Hannah Montana CD.

We took Donuts to her class.

BFF Megan and Tea
They have so much fun together.

At the Chuck E. Cheese Party show with her friends.

She loved being next to Chuck E.

She loved her new pet shop house.

Daddy's girl

We celebrated Megan's 5Th birthday this weekend! She was so cute and loved her party @ Chuck E Cheese. She got lots of fun presents Lil Pet Shops, Barbies, Puzzles, Games, Microphone so she can sing HSM and Hannah Montana. ( Will Post a video later).She was trying to learn all the words to " Best of Both Worlds today.She kept saying:" Mom am I Five today? "She could hardly wait to be 5! It is Fabulous to be Five! We are so blessed to have great friends here in California- thanks guys! We love you meg and are so thankful you are in our family!

A Fun 5 Days!

2009-08-22T19:55:00.000-07:00

Ben's sister Ericka, her husband Jeff, and their family, Justin, Brandon, and Darren made the 11+ hour drive West to Modesto. We had a blast and took advantage of the excuse to go do a lot of things. First of all we met them on their way into the State at Coloma State Park (aka Gold Discovery Park) and Sutter's Mill.

It was not as educational as we thought it would be nor was it like Ericka and Ben remembered as little kids but it got us out of Modesto and it gave the Olsen's a chance to get out of the truck instead of driving straight to Modesto. We played in the River and watched people pan for gold.

The kids enjoyed entertaining one another, riding in the same car, and singing to the radio and CD's. When we were home we watched movies, played the Wii, and played cards.

I am sure they were all tired of being in the car but Brandon took it the hardest. It was so painful he pulled out two of his teeth to help pass the time.

Yosemite, as expected, was spectacular. This picture is right in front of El Capitan where people stop and look at the rock climbers. I think Jeff located some.

We then went to Mariposa Grove - a grove of Sequioa Big Trees within Yosemite. The pictures don't do justice for what you see with your eyes. We took a 2 mile hike to get a better view.

This is us in front of the Grizzly Giant.

On our hike we saw a deer and walked through the Tunnel Tree!

Our camera batteries died at Glacier Point so this is one of the only pictures we got. One of these days we are hiking to the top of Half Dome. How can you live here and not check that off your list?

In addition to spending one whole day in Yosemite and watching the sun set while at Glacier Point (we arrived home at 1 am), we went to the Jelly Belly Factory. The Olsen's drove through San Francisco and across the Bay Bridge, Golden Gate, and Richmond Bridges. I guess they will have to come back since we didn't get to do some of the other things on our lists.

Thanks for coming to visit!

Back to School

2009-08-10T16:37:00.000-07:00

Oh the First Day Of School! I still get butterflies in my stomach and can hardly sleep at night, and I am not even going to school. The first day of school was last week August 3rd. I can't believe it is time to go back already. I was sad at first because we had a great summer vacation. But I was also happy because then they don't have time to fight with each other. The past two weeks have been horrible. They play well together but they do have their moments and we defiantly had more and more of them lately. Anyways, they were so excited for their first day! Megan could hardly wait. She said all morning that her stomach hurt and we told her you probably have butterflies in your tummy and she said " I do , How did they get in there".
LOL. I warned the kids the night before that I would be taking lots of pictures but I won't bore anyone with them all but here are a few from that day.
Two Happy kids and One happy Mom, (Except for the first Day I do get a tear or two.)

Jaden going into Second grade.

He was excited to have some friends in his class .

Megan all ready for Kindergarten. She was so Happy !

Just look at that face, she had a great first day! This is Megan's cute hat she made! She also made a new buddy . They get along so well. We have already had some play dates this week. This is going to be a great year.( Even though we have had a few tears). The week went by way too fast! Before I know it they will be going into High School. Until then ,I am just going to SOAK it all in as much as I can. They are just both so energetic and love learning new things. This is a great age and I can't wait to have many more adventures with them in Elementary School.

It's Over -

2009-08-05T21:26:00.000-07:00

Where did July go? For us that means summer is over. With living in California comes modified year round school. We may be complaining about it now but when we are sleeping in from Thanksgiving until after New Year's and with a month off in April we will deal with it. Too bad we aren't Teachers and get that time off right?

We had an enjoyable month of summer. A Trip to Utah was our getaway. We camped, played, rode the 4 wheeler, ate, swam, jumped off a zipline, golfed, played some more, swam some more, ran/walked a 5k/10k, and laughed while hanging out with family. Too bad we all don't get together more often. We had a blast and it was nice to relax!

2009-08-05T21:22:00.001-07:00

Happy Anniversary!!

2009-07-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

10 Years ago Today I married my Best Friend! It has been the best decision I have ever made=) Where does the time go? Ben is the Best Husband, Father and Friend. Ben, thanks for all the Good times and the Bad times that have brought us closer together. Here's to another great 10! Ben I love you so much!

As Promised -

2009-07-26T18:27:00.001-07:00

365 Days Ago -

2009-06-14T16:19:00.000-07:00

What can one family experience in 365 days? This month will be 1 year since we started this adventure in California? How long will it last? Who knows! Are we adjusted? Kind of. Can we believe it has been a year? No. When we started this adventure Ben's dad mentioned something a long the lines of WOW - you are experiencing the 3 biggest stresses in life all at once. A new job, a new addition to the family, and a move to another state. That is a lot to take on at once. We knew he was right and we knew this BIG Change would be an adventure so we didn't disagree with him. What we didn't know is that if you were to ask us how life would be after a year we would say it would be different then it is now. How would it be different? We still can't answer that, maybe we would have felt more at home? But the one thing we have said plenty of times the last 365 days, no matter what has come our way (which was way too much), and no matter what has happened (which was a lot), is that we knew we made the right decision despite it being a really difficult one (which it has been). Texas maybe just as big as California but they are different!

Anyway, we had a really good idea to put together pictures of what the last 365 days have been like but our computer is experiencing some viruses (imagine that) and all of our pictures are on a flash drive on vacation with the rest of the clan in Utah. Thank goodness for work computers right? So I am posting this message regardless with the promise that the pictures will have to come later and hopefully before an update of the summer trip to Utah!

We hope all of you are having an enjoyable summer.

Turning One.....

2009-06-11T20:34:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby is One. Lanie turned one 2 weeks ago. We had a great time Celebrating with some of our friends at our favorite splash park for Family Home Evening. Since her real Birthday was on Sunday we just had our own family party on that day.( I was sick the week before her birthday so we didn't do anything BIG).But Seriously Where has this year gone? It just flew by. Some of it is a blur to me because honestly moving to a different state and having a baby and starting/changing careers it a BIG adjustment. Phew!! Lanie is crawling everywhere now, and loves to open and close the fridge, Pull herself up to everything too. She smiles and laughs and mimics most sounds we say. Like" Nite Nite "and thank you! She does say mama, dada, and can sign more,dog,milk,thank you and can wave Bye!
SHe loved the frosting on her cupcake.

Her favorite place is in the water with the Big kids. She is riding her motorcycle again. I love those chubby legs. I just love to squeeze her. She is so happy to be splashing in the WATER!

These two still can't get enough of their baby sister.It's so cute!

Megan striking a Pose.Should I put her into Modeling classes?

Her first time eating a CUPCAKE! She picked up the Whole thing .

We are so grateful to be your parents. Lanie you bring us Joy and HAPPINESS Everyday!

Having fun opening her presents. But mostly she loved the wrapping paper and boxes. Unfortunately she hasn't gotten to play with her toys yet. Jaden and Megan think they are pretty cool.

Our sweet baby at Just 5 weeks old. She really has been the best baby and we feel so Blessed and Lucky. She has made this year so special for us we wouldn't change a thing. And we can't wait for more good times to come. We love you Lanie LU! XOXOXO

Girls Night

2009-05-26T12:22:00.000-07:00

My Friend Alli and her daughter Bailey came over and we had a girls night. We had a lot of fun and it was Megan's first sleep over. The girls had a good time and ,were so tired when we put them to bed @ 11pm. Alli and I stayed up later and watched chick flicks while we painted wood blocks and frames! It was so much fun!

Sweet Girl

2009-05-15T10:59:00.000-07:00

What a cutie!
I think she is eating a fuzz ball off the floor LOL.

I love those Big Cheeks !

Lanie is almost one! Where has the time gone. It feels like she was just born and I blinked my eyes and now she is turning one in a few weeks. She has started to army crawl everywhere. She is so sweet and loves her big brother and sister! If you ask her where her teeth are she opens her mouth SO big, it is so cute!We love You !

Firsts -

2009-05-03T20:31:00.000-07:00

This last weekend was a couple of Firsts for this adventure we are on in California.

-Ben's Sister and her family (Melissa, Chad, and Chase) made their 1st visit from Elko, Nevada. It is always nice to have visitors. Jaden, Megan, and Lanie haven't seen cousins that often so they loved playing with Chase. We all ate our fair share of food (as seen by the candy wrappers), and as always didn't play enough card games.

-Ben ran his 1st ever half marathon on Saturday. Where did that come from you ask? Melissa and Ben had this idea in December to start training for a half marathon. After really starting to train the first part of February it just so happened this weekend worked out perfectly with a 1/2 marathon along the American River Parkway in Sacramento. If you want to see pictures of the course and where Melissa and Ben placed check out www.parkwayhalf.com (yes it is the 1/2 marathon not the 1/2 walk and we ran all 13 miles)! Melissa ran the St. George Marathon (26 miles) several years ago so she is experienced and helped get Ben motivated, in decent shape, and across the finish line. Yes, his little sister even finished ahead of him and believe it or not neither of them are extremely sore.

-Natalie had her 1st California scrapbook retreat and we are all shocked it took nearly 10 months to occur. Even though timing wasn't all that good with both events falling on the same weekend she still managed to complete over 20 plus pages, stay up until after 4 am both nights (she's asleep on the couch as we speak), and come home anxious to see the rest of us despite missing out on the events in California's Capital.

-I believe this is a first. Chad, since he wasn't crazy enough to scrapbook or run 13 miles with his wife and Brother-in-law, he was gracious enough to watch 4 kids (reminder 3 of which aren't his) for several hours. He is the one that should get a shirt and medal! In order to pay him back we stopped by Bass Pro Shop on the way home. It may not be as good as Cabella's but for this trip it will have to do. We would have taken more pictures of these events but the camera's were left in Nevada and Modesto. LOL!

Next up - a 10k in Utah in July!!

Isn't Chase cute!!

Chad and Melissa playing cards!

The proof - Nice shirts and medals!

The Happy Marrott Family!

The Scrapbooker in Preparation Mode!

Easter Weekend

2009-04-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

The Beautiful View of Orchards

Grants Grove

WE love you G & G!

Jelly Belly Factory

Lanie On Easter ( SHe was not sure of the grass on her feet)

Megan and her Easter Basket

Happy Easter!

Gotta love those cute big cheeks

(The PIctures came out in the wrong order. I guess I better Blog more to figure out the right order LOL!)

My parents came to visit us Easter weekend! We had so much fun. We thought it would be a great Idea to take them to the Jelly Belly Factory.( along with the whole state of Cali). It was well worth the wait in line to see how they are made. Holy Cow! It is really intresting and soooo many Jelly Beans are made in one day. We got to try a few and then of course had to buy all of our favorite ones along with Jordan Almonds, Candy COrn , Swedish Fish etc..WE also took them to Sequia Nat'l Park. It was amazing! We couldn't make it all the way to the top because of snow and fog , But we did go to Grants Grove. They were cool trees. The Highlight of the trip was a man "Pepe" . WE bought fresh ORanges and Avacados from his little fruit stand. We had a fun easter egg hunt after church and ate way too much candy, along with Fresh Picked strawberrys for our short cake. Or as ben calls it LOng Cake!

Basketball

2009-03-15T18:56:00.000-07:00

Jaden and his team mate Charles
aka LIL Jordan. That kid can play basketball.
(He got the MVP award.)
I think Jaden came to his waste. He was a sweet
kid. He would try to pass it to Haley ( who is sitting next
to Jaden)the only girl on the team, but most of the time she would
be too afraid to catch it and it would hit her head.They were so funny to watch.

Jaden is Lucky number 4 trying to play defense. This was early in the season he did improve his game alot more. Notice he is the first one down the court . That kid can run.... Even though the games were way too early in the morning for a Saturday we did have fun watching them.

We are still alive!

2009-03-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

Our love notes!

Sibling love

Josh and Stacey

Happy V-day !

Oakland Temple

Wow, time is just flying by these days . Where did the month of February go? And now it is the middle of march ahh! We had a great Valentines day. We were able to go to the Oakland Temple and is was so beautiful. Then after we went to Armadillo Willys with our friends Josh and Stacey . They are so fun to hangout with. Thanks guys! In the month of Feb. we had fun putting love notes to eachother in our mail boxes. Jaden and megan gave eachother notes almost everyday , it was so cute! Lanie is really getting fun to play with now.And we have been so busy with Jaden's basketball, with practices and games. But now that is all over and Jaden is almost out of school for a month. So I hope to be blogging more. More pictures and stories to come...

NO traning wheels

2009-02-08T20:52:00.000-08:00

Megan wanted to take her training wheels off this week.What??? I was a little scared but she was excited. She did a lot better than I thought she would. She only fell a few times. She actually learned faster than her brother. She is always trying to keep up with him. So this will make it so she can brag when she gets older. We are so proud of you Megan and love you lots! Hope you don't get dizzy watching this. She did go in a straight line eventually.Look what I can do Grandma! You go MEG!

Wright's Rockin New Years Eve Party!

2009-01-22T11:32:00.000-08:00

Grandpa and Chad trying to cut
those darn potatoes without laughing.

Ben, Chad & Par cooking up the good stuff.
( It's so cold you can see Ben's breath Brrr!)

Megan just loved Great Grandma Huffaker, she
had a strong connection to her. She always wanted to be
by her. It was so sweet . We love you grandma. Who would guess she
is 90 years old.

Happy 7 months Lanie!

The much anticipated Feast!
It was so yummy!

Playing sequences for Kids with Grandma
and Ericka and Jack.

Charades with kids was so funny.
I think Brandon is saying he is Cold
or I love you!

Time to ring in the New Year. Ben
tackled me in the snow for my New
Years Kiss.

Happy New Year Ben, I love you!

Lisa ,Ella and Byron

All the boys loved playing the Wii.

We had a blast on New Years. Ben's family has an awesome party. They cook a lot of food , and then we play games all night. The kids had fun playing with their cousins. Happy New Year! We hope that 2009 will be a Happy year!

Snow much fun!

2009-01-19T11:47:00.000-08:00

Megan loved to eat the snow! I just hope it was all white and no yellow.

Daddy Daughter riding together.

Aunt Lisa, Ella, Megan,Aunt Ericka ,Ben.

Jaden getting ready to ride.

Aunt Lisa pulled all the kids around on the Four Wheeler, through grandpa's garden. She was the winner for the day , and not to mention an excellent driver. The swingset was still in place when the day ended.Go Lisa!

Aunt Lori,Jaden ,Laran

A ride with Grandpa Lewis.SO fun!

Cool Dude!

Megan and Daddy walking up the hill.

Megan going down the hill all by herself.

Good times!

We went to Utah the day after Christmas and stayed for a week. We were really excited to see our families & some friends. We haven't been for the holidays since Melissa's wedding ( 4 years ago). The kids loved the snow.!Megan loved eating the snow. Jaden got really good at sledding down the hill and going over the biggest bumps.He now wants to snowboard.We'll see. We played in the snow a lot and the kids loved it.I forgot how much fun sledding is.(thanks everybody). It just makes you laugh slidding down the hill and trying not to run into anyone walking up , there were some close calls. We had some good trains going but they broke ,oh well.We had some good times.We missed the snow queen(Aunt Trisha).

Christmas Day

2009-01-16T10:01:00.000-08:00

Megan and her High School Musical Barbie car.

Jaden playing his Leapster

Lanie fell asleep with all the Chaos of packing for Utah

Lanie liked eating the bows.

Our best christmas gift this year!(lanie loo)

The girls in their matching snow hats.

The kids on Christmas morning!

Merry Christmas ! We love you tons!

We had a wonderful sunny Christmas in California! The kids were so excited about what Santa had brought them. Jaden got a skateboard( so he can fit in with all of his friends here!) and Pokemon cards and a mini Ipod and star war Lego's and leapster games.. Megan got a Barbie house and little pet shop toys and a pink leapster with a princess game.Lanie got a book and a phone and clothes from Santa.It was a fun day opening presents and seeing the kids faces light up. ( I was a little worried that it wouldn't all come together but it did.) Jaden kept saying this is the best day of my life! And it was a great day!

Christmas Eve

2009-01-14T09:06:00.000-08:00

What sweethearts!

Lanie loved to grab everything!

The kids coloring before dinner.

Our yummy feast!

Lanie's First Christmas!

OOps this was in utah, more pics coming soon.

We had a lot of fun on Christmas Eve! The kids were way excited! We ate our Christmas "Feast" provided by our secret Santa. And then we opened our Christmas PJ's . And then we took the kids to Christmas tree lane.( it's a real name of a street) the whole street in decorated in Christmas lights.And we sang songs in the car and drank hot chocolate.Then we came home and set out cookies for Santa and feed his reindeer. And watched to movie elf. It was a fun night!

Oakland Temple Trip

2009-01-07T16:33:00.000-08:00

We took a little family trip to San Jose the monday before christmas. It was fun , the kids thought they were in heaven staying in a hotel. At one point Jaden said I wished we lived here. After spending most of the day in a hotel while Ben took his test I was ready to leave.After Ben was finished We drove over to the Oakland Temple. We have wanted to go there since we moved here.So we made it a Family Home Evening night. It was a beautiful temple. I couldn't get over a palm tree decorated in christmas lights that cracked me up.( But I also havn't lived in Cali for very long)Anyways it was a fun night, and we got to see some amazing sculptures of christ in the Visitor Center.

Our Secret Santa

2009-01-07T16:24:00.000-08:00

We had someone do the twelve days of Christmas to our family! It was the highlight of our day. Waiting to see what our secret Santa brought us. They were so generous and nice. The first day was a spiral ham, then two pies, and three sparkling cider. and the list goes on and on. They were so creative and we loved every minute of it. The kids tried so hard to find out who it was. But we never did catch them. Which made it more meaningful for Ben and I not to know who it was.SO a big thank you to that family who really made our first Christmas in California special. You will never know how much it mean to us! Thank you, thank you!!

Christmas Spirit

2008-12-16T17:12:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas cuties!

Look at that face

I have had the hardest time getting into the Christmas spirit this year.I think just all the pressure of making it a perfect day and doing fun things with the kids to make it a special season was really getting to me.Then Jaden and Megan sang at the Nativity Festival. Our church puts this together every year here, and it was so cool. There were lots of nativities from all over the world. I wish I would of taken pictures of my favorite ones. The kids sang some wonderful Christmas songs .(and Megan loved her new sparkly dress.) Then I started to get in the Christmas mood , then I decorated the tree with Megan and she was so excited. It made me remember decorating the tree with my mom and loving every minute of it .I could hardly wait until Christmas. Then we had some pretty carolers come to our door that brought a tear to my eye. And we have been doing something different this year. Our friends gave us a Christmas scripture advent this year. You read a scripture and then listen to a song . With the days being so hectic and long it's been great to sit down and reflect on the real reason for the season.

So Much

2008-12-16T15:45:00.000-08:00

Happy First Thanksgiving!

Megan is so sweet!

Waiting for the feast!

Cooking the Big Feast

I am so glad when grandma comes

Cousins are the best!

We have so much to be thankful for. I didn't want to pass up this chance to tell how much fun Thanksgiving was this year. We had a great time with my parents and did lots of fun things. Eating ,shopping,movies,eating,playing,going to Yosemite, laughing etc.. We are so glad they came to see us.We made some great memories. I am so thankful for families, and friends,Jesus Christ , and good health and a warm house to live in.(This is such a crazy time of year so I wanted to take a minute and reflect on our many blessings.)Happy Holidays!

Yosemite!

2008-11-30T18:30:00.001-08:00

Boy are we glad...

2008-11-30T15:44:00.000-08:00

We moved to California. There are plenty of reasons good and bad for living in California. This post is about 1 reason why anyone would love living in Central California. YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK!

Grandma and Grandpa Lewis visited us for Thanksgiving so we decided to make the 100 mile drive to Yosemite the day after Thanksgiving. It was a breath taking drive and that was before we even entered the park. The scenery inside the park is beyond words. I think we found our new happy place in which to escape. All of a sudden we are ready to become hikers (okay at least Ben is). These pictures don't even do justice to what it looks like in person. As you can see the weather was perfect. The one picture we couldn't get were of the rock climbers on the face of El Capitan. They were getting ready to spend the night on a 3,000 foot rock cliff! We can't wait to go in the spring when the falls are roaring from the melting snow!

If anyone decides to come visit we would love to be a tour guide.

Sweet Potatoe Casserole

2008-11-24T12:43:00.000-08:00

Sweet Potatoes

3 c. boiled sweet potatoes-mashed
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. melted butter
2 eggs- well beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
1/3 c. sweet milk (eagle brand)

Mix and put into a buttered dish. ( Use mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth).

Topping:
1 c. brown sugar
1 c. chopped nuts (pecans)
1/2 c. flour
1/3 c. melted butter

Mix and sprinkle on top. Bake at 350 for 25 mins.

It is not Thanksgiving until I make these. They are sooooo yummmyy!!And easy to make.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving to all!!

Jaden lost a tooth

2008-11-13T12:39:00.000-08:00

Jaden was so excited to loose his first tooth. It has been wiggly for a couple of weeks now. He wanted to loose it at school because you get to wear the tooth necklace and put your tooth inside . But since he has been out of school almost a week and a half and not going back until after thanksgiving that was not going to happen.( sorry buddy). SO on Monday he started playing with his tooth a lot and it was really sticking out. So when dad got home I got a napkin and gave it a good tug. And of course jaden cried a little. Then he said he wanted to try and out it came. We had to call grandma and tell her!!And now he talks with a cute lisp. And it is in perfect spot for a capri sun straw to fit thru it .So he thinks he is pretty cool. And the tooth fairy was also really nice to him!! So that is the story of the lost tooth more than you wanted to know I'm sure.

Elder Wright's Message

2008-11-07T12:04:00.000-08:00

Visiting Elder Wright

2008-11-07T11:36:00.000-08:00

waiting to surprise Elder Wright

walking laps around the nurses station

Elder Wright and Lanie

ouch! 24 staples!

Happy Camper

The Bishop what a sweet sweet man

We made the two hour drive to Napa yesterday to visit Elder Wright. He was doing great. It was kinda weird to see him at first since it had been 18 months since we saw him last.But then again at the same time it felt like yesterday. He was pretty shocked to see us at his the door. He is doing very well considering he erupted his spleen and bruised his kidney,from falling off a rope swing. He has had many visitors and seem to be in good spirits since he missed his first baptism on his mission the the day of the accident. We are so thankful that nothing else happened to him.We had a great visit with him and got to spend a few hours at the hospital. Megan kept saying to me "mom I though Shaun was on a mission". One day they will realize how lucky they were to see Uncle Shaun on his mission.We love you Elder Wright!!!

Lanie Laughing

2008-11-04T17:11:00.000-08:00

We have been trying to get Lanie to laugh for a few weeks and she finally did. It was too cute so I had to share it!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T14:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone! We did the Trunk or Treat last weekend at church so tonight we are looking forward to some Trick or Treating! Yippee, Yummy CANDY! HOpe everyone has a safe and fun holiday.

Primary Program

2008-10-28T10:22:00.000-07:00

All the children in our church gave talks and sang songs at church this past sunday. It was so very sweet to hear them sing about Jesus. This was the first year Jaden actually participated after 4 years of being too afraid to go up there. ( way to go dude) And megan was so cute and sang with the sumbeams and said her part too. At the end they sang a song that went like this:

If the savior stood beside me,would I do the things I do? Would I think of his commandments and try harder to be true? Would I follow his example? Would I live more righteously if I could see the Savior standing nigh watching over me?

Megan started to cry when they were singing this song, and wouldn't sing anymore, and we asked her why she was crying and she said because "I was feeling good inside." It is in these sweet moments that help us remember our Savior is really there watching over us.

Special Award

2008-10-28T09:59:00.000-07:00

Jaden got a special award this week at school. He was given the most outstanding First grader award in the whole school. Which is only given to one student from the Principal. This is what his teach wrote about him: Jaden is an outstanding first grader! He is funny and sweet, a good friend to others and a very responsible student. He is always on task! He is a wonderful reader and he loves to write -especially about his family.He joined our class last month, and we are so glad and proud that he is a member of our classroom family!
I am so thankful he got such a great start at school in Texas. He really loves school and has made lots of new friends! I did video tape it but there was a baby in the background crying so I will save every ones ears for now. Super job Jaden!

Little Lanie

2008-10-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

Wow where has the time gone. It seems like the days and especially the weekends are just flying by. Our little lanie is just doing great! I can't believe that she is 4 months! She does not like being on her tummy .Probably because most of her life she has spent in a car.So the other day I put her on a blanket and she rolled over.The kids are still enjoying her and I love that she is such a good baby. She brings a smile to my heart everyday. She does love attention though.Anyone that talks to her is her new best friend.

Happy Birthday Jaden!

2008-10-03T11:58:00.000-07:00

Seven years ago I became a mom. I didn't know what to expect. But I am so thankful I am Jaden's mom. He keeps me on my toes. There have been many ups and downs to figuring out motherhood but I am very blessed. I don't know where the time has gone,but it really has changed my life for the better. Jaden is such a sweet spirit and is very kind to his sisters and friends and family.We are just so thankful that Heavenly Father sent him to us. We are glad you are apart of our family Jaden. We love you so much. Don't forget we are all in this together!! When ever I tell him this he gets the biggest smile on his face.

Megan Boogie Boarding

2008-10-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

This is when we were at the beach,she is trying to

boogie board. she was so cute! I just had to share it.

Home Invasion

2008-10-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

The cute little Gecko

Now trapped in a bowl!!

SO the other morning I was cleaning up the kitchen and went to throw something in the garbage. And I looked down and saw something move. I said what was that? I looked down and it was a lizard. It moved a little ,and I knew I had to act quickly so it wouldn't run away. I ran to the cupboard and got a glass. I came back and tried to catch it. It then ran fast under the piano.My heart it racing so fast at this point. So Megan And I got on the floor trying to see if we could see it. We could. So I called Ben at work. The conversation went like this. Um what are you doing? Working... oh well ,Megan and I are trying to catch a lizard. Really ,you mean a gecko. Yeah sure ,whatever it is will you come get it? I don't want to loose it somewhere in the house then it would crawl on Lanie or the kids. I will see if I can get away. 10 minutes later.... Called Ben again, are you going to come and get it? Megan the whole time is on her tummy staring at this gecko under the piano. She would yell, mom it moved his head!! When Ben got home he got the broom and wept it out and trapped it with a Tupperware bowl.( I could of done that, but I was too scared!) We then got it outside thank goodness. So Am I the only one who would of called their husband to come and get it? What would you do if a gecko got in your house?

When it was all over, I said oh we should of kept it as a pet. It was kind of cute!

Sunset Beach

2008-09-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

Cool surfer dude!!

Jaden and Ben

Jellyfish

making new friends

Megan boogie boarding!

Jaden playing baseball on the beach.

Our first trip to the Beach! We had a fun day at the beach. It was a church activity and we are so glad we made the 2 hr trip. We got to see some more sights of California and it was beautiful! It was a little cold and windy but nothing you couldn't handle. The kids were funny when we told them where we were going they didn't want to go , because they didn't want to see a Shark or a Whale .There is just something about being at the beach that makes you happy. The kids had a blast with their new friends they have made. They didn't want to leave. Jaden was jumping in the waves and fell down and got some water in his mouth. He came running to me and almost crying said" I didn't like that water mom, it was yucky!" Gotta love the salt water. We saw lots of dead jelly fish that were washed up. And we did see a whale that was far away. Our car was full of sand when we got home and we were so tired and sunburned the next day . But lots of good memories were made=)

Home Sweet HOme

2008-09-17T09:18:00.000-07:00

Well, we moved again! I can't remember if I said anything about us moving to another rental. The first one we were in just gives me the chills. It just did not work out. The rocks in front and back and no carpet were only a few reasons why we left. But thankfully that is all behind us and we endured a long 6 weeks there. We are now in a much better place. It has Carpet and Grass and is painted cute inside and we added an extra bedroom for guests. The neighborhood feels much safer and we already feel more comfortable here.It is amazing how the small and simple things make it feel like home. What makes your home feel comfortable? We got an offer on our home in Lubbock so we feel very blessed.Moving is not very fun but I am slowly unpacking and organizing our stuff.I am excited about fall coming I saw pumpkins at a local market yesterday and was thrilled. Can't wait to decorate with pumpkins and smell my apple Cinnamon plug ins again and get a Pumpkin Pie Blizzard from Dairy Queen but I have a feeling it will not taste like the ones in Texas!

Happy 4th birthday megan!

2008-09-04T11:27:00.000-07:00

Her new Pet Shop Clubhouse!

Her new Barbie scooter!

I love this girl so much!

Finally she is four!

Daddy's little girl!

Having fun at Chuck E Cheese....

Megan turned 4 years old! We can't believe how fast time is going by. She seems so big and grown up, probably because she is 4 but going on 16! She is a funny girl and we are so blessed she is in our family. Here are four things we love about her.

1-She is just so cute to her new baby sister. She adores her!(sometimes too much)She is always singing to her getting a blanket for her or changing her diaper.

2-She is really good at sharing.

3-She is all girl. Loves to sing High School Musical 2 ,play dress ups and with her Little Pet Shop..And loves animals.oh and can be very dramatic.

4-She can say the sweetest prayers and is mostly happy and lights up our day with her loving personality.

For her birthday all she wanted was to go to chuck e cheese. So we spent a Saturday afternoon there along with everyone else in Modesto.we are so very thankful that Heavenly Father sent us Megan. We love you so much!

First Day of First Grade

2008-08-22T11:30:00.000-07:00

Jaden started first grade last week. It is kinda weird here in California the campus is huge! It looks like a college campus. Everything is outside. He goes to a different building for everything. Kinda crazy and hard to get used to. We unfortunately had a hard time getting him into a school. They only allow 20 kids in each class up to third grade. So the school next to our house was all full and all the other schools in the district except one was open and yep it is the furthest one away. Oh well. He is liking it. He loves that he gets recess, and his new favorite thing is teather ball. And he loves fun Friday, because you get ice cream! What more could a first grader want right! It's the mom that is having a hard time sending her baby to such a big school. Hopefully we can get him into the school by our house. He is on a waiting list so we will see.Ahh! As a lady at our church told me Welcome to California!

She did it!

2008-08-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

Lanie slept all night! Wahoo. I know it may not happen again tonight, but I will still take it. She slept from 9pm-6am. what a good girl! I feel so refreshed today.If only I had someone to do something with. I guess I will take the girls to the park .I did go to playgroup last week but no one came so maybe there will be one person today. I did meet a nice lady from our church. she has two kids the same age as megan and Jaden but she has five kids so she is busy busy. I miss my lubbock playgroup!

OUr lIttle Lanie

2008-08-11T17:34:00.000-07:00

Little Lanie is now 10 weeks old. I can't believe it! Wow, what a crazy 10 weeks it has been ,but she has been the calm to our storm. She is such a sweet baby and so cute. Jaden and Megan still love her and want to hold her every second they can. Megan last night was saying" oh you are the best sister ever". We are going to be Sisters forever. She is starting to smile and coo. And is almost sleeping all night yeah! We love you so much lanie!

pictures from the park!

2008-08-07T16:15:00.001-07:00

This is our new favorite park Freedom.
Oh they love it when I ask them to take a picture together
for mom.

What cutie pies!

This is a fun new toy at the park .

Even lanie likes being outside in california, THere is NO wind!

Lanie is warming up to daddy now, she wasn't so sure of him for
a couple of days . After he was away to california.

Jaden loves the water at this park and gets all wet so he can get some good air off the
big slide!

California!

2008-08-07T14:28:00.001-07:00

Hey we made it to california!The kids are adjusting well. They love this new park and we have to go almost everyday to it. Which is fine by me. The weather here is perfect! I am starting to make my way around and have found more parks the kids like and some fun shopping. But the sonic is far away and not very good:( I do miss texas and all my friends there especially Down Memory lane. I did go to a store here which was good, but it won't ever be the same:( Jaden will start school on Monday . Which makes me happy for him but sad for me. The school he will go to is year round. So I will have to adjust to that too.But here are a few pics from our favorite park.I guess I will have to show some pictures later.

prayer

2008-07-01T13:25:00.000-07:00

We feel so blessed knowing that we have a loving Heavenly Father who hears and answers our prayers. Ben got a job! We are so thrilled and excited to start a new adventure with our little family in California. Ben graduated in December in Finacial Planning and we have been looking for jobs since then and have had a fun roller coaster ride as some of our friends and family know. We are so thankful for the love and support Thur all of that. We wanted to be closer to family and have more things to go and do. This is going to be a great opportunity for Ben's career and we are so proud of him. He is a great husband, father, friend and really works so hard to provide for us. We will really miss all the friendships we have made here in Texas and will be so sad to leave. We will definitely keep in touch through our blog and emails and phone calls. Oh and we love visitors. So ,for now we are enjoying the last few days here and are trying to get to all our favorite parks and places before we leave. Ben will head off to sunny California with our stuff and I will get to go visit family in utah for a while with the kids. Yippee!

Two weeks...

2008-06-15T20:23:00.002-07:00

2 weeks and counting.....

2008-06-15T20:23:00.000-07:00

So we have survived the 1st two weeks with little Lanie in the house. The kids can't stop kissing her and asking to hold her. Things could be worse so we are counting our blessings. That and Lanie doesn't cry very much even when trying to pass gas so we feel really blessed to have calm nights. The paparazzi were finally able to catch up with her....

Hospital Visitors

2008-06-15T19:32:00.000-07:00

We are trying to catch up from the last couple weeks. Nat's parents, Glenn and Carol, came to visit and help just as Natalie and Lanie came home from the Hospital. Al and Blanche, our wonderful next door neighbors (and our adopted grandparents from Texas) watched Jaden and Megan while the rest of us were in the Hospital. Additional Louisa and her kids (Matthew, Zach, Alex, and Adriana) came to say hello, hold Lanie, and take the kids to one of the parks to play. I guess Adriana and Alex are the only photogenic ones of the bunch. Either that or we just didn't take pictures of the other boys. We wanted to say post some pictures of their visits and also say thanks to them for helping us out. We couldn't have done it without them.

More pics

2008-06-04T20:41:00.001-07:00

If she would only poop.....

2008-06-04T20:34:00.001-07:00

So we are home and trying to get more and more sleep. For some "small" reason it isn't happening but Lanie is now out of the tanning bed, hopefully for good. Her belirubin count was high so we are feeding her as much as we can (based on the nurses orders). In the meantime when she poops I am afraid we will have to throw a party because that means we are flushing out the belirubin. No pun intended! Either way we are happy to be spending the night in our own bed eating regular food.

SHE'S HERE.........

2008-06-01T21:41:00.000-07:00

Our round mound of baby-looking fun came tumbling to Lubbock on May 31st at 2:59 pm. We think she just didn't want a June birthday for some reason but only time will tell why! We also finally decided on a name.........Lainie Grace Wright. The spelling could also be Lanie, but I am doing good to remember her name at this point let alone how her mom wanted it spelled. Either way this 5 lb 14 oz 19 1/2 inches long ball of joy is here and we are so thankful that mom and baby are doing well. God has a hand in all baby births and this one was no different.

Now we can focus on catching up on some sleep and keeping the turns even for Jaden and Megan visiting and holding their sister. If I can get my first blog to work (no this isn't Natalie typing) then everyone can at least see a picture or two of a new angel and the four most biased family members in the world. We think she is cute!!!!

count down

2008-05-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

We are into the count down. Now that the kids are out of school they are in hyper mode and can hardly wait for the baby. I know it is going to be hectic around here but it will be exciting too. I am not that uncomfortable just having lots of braxon hicks. So I am taking it easy for a while. We have almost everything ready to go .yeah! This lovely picture is for anyone who hasn't seen me for awhile , and no it's not a basketball under there.HA!

pure heaven

2008-05-29T13:32:00.001-07:00

I got a pedicure yesterday and it felt so good. I loved it because I can't reach my fat toes anymore. They are so swollen and sore. It was great because she massaged them for a long time. And then painted them with a cute flower! I was so happy I needed it.

Soccer

2008-05-19T11:11:00.001-07:00

Jaden made five goals on saturday! It

was the last game on the season. He was

on fire. Go Rockets. He has made some good

friends on the team. His coach has really been great and

we love to watch him play!

In Training

2008-05-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

Megan loves to scrapbook with me now! So I have been giving her my old stickers, and paper to use and she loves to use my punches and glue them on paper. Gotta love it! I have been a mad women lately trying to get caught up before baby #3!

Student of the month

2008-04-28T11:10:00.000-07:00

We are so proud of jaden. He was student of the month for april. His teacher says

he is very sweet to all his friends and is very popular with the boys and girls. ( which is really funny because after school he hugs about 4-5 girls and gives the boys high fives goodbye) He is really learning to read and write so well. And is well on his way to first grade. NO , I want him to stay in kindergarten forever. This school year has just flown by. He has really grown up this year. You wish you could keep them little and somewhat innocence forever. He loves his new T shirt and wears it any chance he can get. What a handsome and very sweet boy who still loves to kiss and hug me . I love you bud!

megans program

2008-04-28T10:43:00.000-07:00

It has been so long since I have posted. we have been busy with school programs, soccer ,birthday parties, garage sales, trips to the east coast and more. So I will post more later.
of our exciting life it windy west texas.
Megans program was last week on my birthday what a treat. She was adorable and loved this song the best. Ben and I keep watching it. She goes to a baptist preschool so all the songs are about god. enjoy!

Easter Pictures

2008-03-26T14:36:00.001-07:00

Easter Pictures!

2008-03-26T14:35:00.000-07:00

Spring Break

2008-03-24T11:34:00.000-07:00

So jaden and megan had spring break all last week! Yeah we had so much fun together. I didn't realize how much we miss jaden being gone all day at school. we did lots of fun things , we went swimming a couple of times, to McDonalds, the kids rode their bikes,went to a few parks,watched movies, Slept in, YOu can find J&M singing all the words to High School Musical around the house, in the car, out side. They watched it multiple times this week. ANd they got all the dance moves down too.They were so cute, I think I need to put megan into dance she can really shake her booty,I will post a video as soon as I figure it out..Oh and we went to see" Horton Hears a WHo"~really cute movie! Surprisingly Jaden did want to go back to school to see all of his friends today and megs too.Here are just a few pics at the park! We had some really nice weather, I love spring!

Sanio Tonio

2008-03-05T09:34:00.000-08:00

We just got back from a fun weekend in San Antonio. But as megan kept saying "is this Sanio Tonio? We had a great time visiting Trish and Mike. We went to the ZOO, and loved the Hippos swimming in the water ,so Amazing.The weather was perfect so the animals were very active including the loud lion that roared, jaden that that was so awesome. We loved Sea World too, Jaden wasn't so sure about going he was afraid he was going to get Sea sick. (SO CUTe) We loved Shamu, and feeding the dolphins and all the great shows. We played lots of games and had some good laughs too. Can't wait to visit them again.

Oh Boy!

2008-02-18T11:49:00.000-08:00

OH boy! Oh Boy! OH BOy! We are having a girl! We are all so exctied. Even Jaden, I had told him about a month ago, you know buddy it might be a girl. He looked really sad, Because he has asked for a baby brother for a long time. But then I reminded him that He wouldn't have to share his room and he liked that idea. Megan at first said she wasn't going to share any of her toys. But now she says, Mom "my new baby sister can play with this doll," or I will give this toy to our new baby.The other morning she ran into my room and said mom " did the baby come out of your tummy yet". So they are getting excited already. The girls have to catch up on both sides of the family. Megan wants to name her Dora, and Jaden picks a new name everyday. Yesterday he liked abby. Any great names out there anyones wants to share.

Aunt Trish and Uncle Mike

2008-02-04T11:38:00.001-08:00

Uncle mike and Aunt Trish came to visit us while moving down to San Antonio. We are so excited that they will be closer to us. We had some good times while they were here. As much as you can in Lubbock).We did go bowling and Mike almost broke the bowling bar and Ben rolled megans ball into the lane next to us. It was a sight to see, it was so funny! Trish got to stay a few extra days. Jaden and megan just love her. Especially since she played "Hide and go Seek "every second of the day,oh and tag with the soft basketballs. She is a fun Aunt and fun to be around ...Trish and I got a little scrapbooking in which was so much fun ( thanks Trish).We look forward to seeing them again.

Well, we are not moving to houston anytime soon. But we are hanging in there and know that the lord is watching out for us and he knows whats best.We will keep you posted.

Pink or Blue?

2008-02-01T12:14:00.000-08:00

So I had a doctors appointment yesterday , and I was thinking it would be the day we could find out if we are having a boy or girl. Since I am 20 weeks already Yeah!! NO we have to wait until next wed. But that is okay what is another week. Ben doesn't want to find out but the rest of us do. It was still fun to hear the heartbeat and megan really thought that was cool. Does anyone want to put in their predictions?

Happy 2008!

2008-01-17T15:06:00.000-08:00

okay so I am due for another post.. I can't believe that it is already the middle of January. We had a great christmas and new years. We missed our families but at the same time it was nice to be home and do our own family traditions. Jaden hardly slept christmas eve and woke up and @ 3:30 telling me "mom santa's been here" ( he definatley takes after ben:) ) Then, we had to wake up megan which it really took her a while to figure out who gave her a new big kitchen. we had a great day relaxing at home.Christmas goes by way too fast though, or maybe I am just getting older. Then, new years we had fun going to our stake dance,HA! it reminded me of going to church dances and that everyone stands around looking at everyone. We finally got out and danced as a family . Megan and Jaden looked so cute together we call them the "cute lil couple". They are always hugging and kissing and I try and take as many pictures as I can because I know one day they won't be that affectionate.

Shortly after the new year Ben flew to houston for an interview for a job in FP. Which went really well and would be a great opportunity for us. We still don't know what will happen yet and our playing the waiting game.But we have faith that everything will work out for the best!

Santa Clause is coming to Town!

2007-12-22T12:52:00.000-08:00

The Kids are so excited for christmas this year. Jaden had no problem sitting on santa's lap. Megan on the other hand she surprized us at the ward christmas party and finally did sit on his lap. what they want is ..
Jaden's list.. a green umbrella, and spiderman Pj's..
Megan's list.. a pink computer, pink chair, pink elephant with stripes.
Good luck santa finding these things in your work shop!
We are counting down the days and sining "Jingle bells " all day long.
Merry christmas everyone!

Happy Graduation!

2007-12-22T11:44:00.000-08:00

We are so excited that Daddy Graduated!
We are so very proud of him for all his hard
work and dedication. Happiness is Ben
graduating from TTU with his masters in
Personal Financial Planning. We love you!!

Fall

2007-11-12T11:48:00.000-08:00

Happy fall ya all!
I just love fall. we had a great halloween and the kids got lots of candy. Megan was cinderella and jaden was a power ranger. Halloween is my favorite holiday! Megan keeps saying Mom can I have some trick or treats! The weather has been very warm here so it doesn't feel like fall. But the leaves are still falling off the trees.
Things I love about fall
1-pumpkin pie blizards
2-leaves changing colors
3-hot chocolate
4-wearing jackets
Hope everyone is enjoying this time of year as much as I do!

The fair..

2007-10-01T18:32:00.000-07:00

I know that I just posted earlier but I am getting addicted to this !We had a blast at the fair this year. Jaden loved the rides, and megan loved the baby chicks . And we loved the yummy food.

Jaden's almost 6!

2007-10-01T11:24:00.001-07:00

I can't believe that Jaden is going to be 6 in two days. The time goes by so quickly. He loves going to kindergarten. But it has been an adjustment. they go all day in texas! He is learning so much already. the other day he came home and wrote from 0-100. I was so proud of him and then he wrote a note to his teacher and it said"To mrs .wooldridge I love you!" and he made hearts all around it. He is so sweet .He is very excited about his birthday.

This is a funny story, His school had skate night the other day. He really wanted to go, so we went as a family. Jaden has never skated before. But he was so determined to do it, after seeing all the big kids. At first ben was pulling him around the rink, and then he wanted to do it alone. He kept falling down while holding onto the side. sometimes even in the splits. Ben and I were laughing so hard, we had to look away. It looked like he was drunk or something. He came back to the bench and started to cry because he couldn't do and because his butt hurt Im sure.But I was proud of him ,by the end of the night he could go for a little bit with out falling or holding onto the side. Then megan and jaden were playing on this blow up slide thing, and this girl said to me" hey Do you go to whiteside?" It took everything I had not to laugh. Then I said no but my son Jaden does. and she said" I knew it , I go to whiteside too!" ( hello, everyone there went to whiteside) I know I look young but common elementary school, that is pushing it! well, life just keeps on moving along, faster than we are ready for sometimes. Have a good day!

2007-10-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

2007-09-06T20:38:00.000-07:00

this was thanksgiving last year

we spent it with our friends the

bylunds.

megan no longer has

that cute swim diaper

bum!

too long!

2007-09-06T20:17:00.000-07:00

I don't know what is wrong with me. I started this blog at the beginning of the summer and here it is sept. already! we had a great summer but kinda hectic. june was awesome we went to Utah! I was there with the kids for the whole month. Ben came for some of it. We sure missed him when he wasn't there. We had a great time with family and friends. Then we got back and our schedule was so busy , we did swim lessons ~ jaden and megan did awesome. And ben took a summer class the month of july. Which with work and school it kept him busy.August we had company the whole month Yeah! We had a wonderful time with everyone that came to visit. Thank you! and now the summer is over ( where did it go) and the kids are in school. Jaden love kindergarten but we are adjusting to the all day thing. He is pretty exhausted when he gets home. Megan started preschool and has jaden's same teacher as two years ago. She loves it and says she is a big girl now! so please be patient as I am trying to learn how this all works.

2007-06-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

here are a few of my favorite pics!

memorial day

2007-05-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at the "Beach" today. Really we just went to Buffalo Springs. Which is a lake by our house. But we played in the water and made sand castles and had lunch. The highlight was the wonderful background music.(spanish) we enjoyed the day with our friends the Bylunds. I will post some pictures later when I figure out how to do it.