The Richards

Mommy's Day....

2010-05-23T10:01:00.000-07:00

Children are the anchors that hold a mother to life.-Sophocles

That quote couldn't be any truer. Words could not describe how blessed and thankful I am to be Myah, Hayden and Karley's mommy. I love them with my whole soul and heart. They are my purpose. They are my world.

I had such an amazing Mommy's Day. Jason and the kids were so good to me. I got some really cool surprises too. Jason got me tickets to see 311. Myah, Hayd and Karley and Jas gave me a super sweet camera. We spent the whole day together as a family. We visited very important mothers too- Mikell, my Mom and Kari. I am grateful for having these strong, beautiful women in my life. I look up to all of them for the many great qualities they hold. We ended our day having dinner at the Texas Roadhouse and went for a drive as a family. Such an awesome day!

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.cyberindian.net/wp-content/images10/sony-dsc-w370-cybershot-camera.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.cyberindian.net/2010/01/24/sony-launched-cybershot-dsc-w370-14-megapixels-digital-camera-in-india/&usg=__OxcNjrnIt-c0FXNVdi89lFgs-Ro=&h=334&w=475&sz=25&hl=en&start=10&sig2=kcLHuZGBV__fb8ISWJByqg&itbs=1&tbnid=1RlZYJ13_qXuqM:&tbnh=91&tbnw=129&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dsony%2Bcybershot%2Bdsc-w370%2Bpictures%26hl%3Den%26tbs%3Disch:1&ei=WGr5S6SMJYPsM8ziqYQI

S I tried to post the picture of this awesome camera that I got, but it didn't work, so this link is the only way to see it.

Karley and Grandma Mindy...

Mikell, Kaylee, Kelly and Karley..love this new camera but I love these girlies more!

The awesome panoramic view of our dinner....

The healing process....

2010-05-22T21:41:00.000-07:00

Family quarrels are bitter things. They don't go according to any rules. They're not like aches or wounds; they're more like splits in the skin that won't heal because there's not enough material.

I am not gonna lie. My heart has been extremely heavy for quite sometime. There have been some really serious events that have taken place in my family, that I am still trying to piece it all together. I am not going to divulge too much information, out of respect for those who, these life altering events have affected. I just need to be able to channel the pain and frustration that I am feeling. In my attempt to heal, I have talked about feelings, but I haven't written them down. So here's to the next step in the healing process.

I am still so angry and hurt by someones selfish-ness. I have tried so hard to help them help themselves. But I completely failed in my attempt. I still question myself why did this happen? how did this happen? why won't they let me help them get better? when is enough-enough? Am I horrible for putting my foot down and not tolerating it? Am I horrible because I have to separate myself from it all? Is that the last time I will see them? I am tormented in thinking that it's not if, it's when? Aside from my feelings, I see the anguish that has stricken other member's of my family because of these events. My heartaches. There is no answer. There is no manual or book. I really wish that there was. Someones written words of wisdom would be cathartic. But seeing since I haven't found anything of the sort, I rely on music. This song sums it all up for me.

Lapse
Envy on the Coast

The road turned into a snake
It looked in my veins and said
"It's in your blood"
That's when I tried to run
But it was way too dark
Got scared and ran into your arms
Oh, sweet chemical predicament
Can't stop, can't change the evident

Predisposed to forget the best part
The story where the hero dies without regard
Made sure that the needle is clean
When I let myself fall asleep
And all I kept was a piece of your picture
It slipped from my fingers
When I slid into my dreams

It's not as deep as it seems
And unfair as it may be
I'm just here to remind you
Remind you not to forget to remember me

I know you know how it feels
To make a clean break
My bones are your bones
My home is your home
You must be so confused
I got scared and ran away from you
Oh, sweet divine predicament
I can't hide, I can't change the evident

Redisposed to trust a photograph
To portray the way you used to laugh
Do you recall the day you wed?
Such a radiant bride
You couldn't wait to see your first born
Take his very first steps
Then you smiled at him
'Cause you thought he looked like me

It's not as deep as it seems
And unfair as it may be
I'm just here to remind you
Remind you not to forget to remember me

Now that I've dodged your questions so much
I don't possess the strength to answer straight
And no, I'm not afraid
At least not to die
I'm afraid to live and not remember why
Sweet chemical indifference
I can't stop, can't change the evidence

Predisposed to perpetual sickness
I refuse to let you all be witness
Make the sure the needle is clean
When you let me go back to sleep
And situate the piece of her picture
Underneath my fingers
It protects me in my dreams

It's not as deep as it seems
And unfair as it may be
I'm just here to remind you
Remind you not to forget to remember me

The past 4 months in a nutshell....

2010-05-16T08:39:00.000-07:00

For those of you who periodically read this blog, you have noticed that I have completely abandoned it for the past 4 months... You'd think with my staying at home mommy business, I'd have time to post things on here. Having 3 small children is pretty time consuming(many of you who have more than 1 child understand). But one thing that I usually have close by is my camera. I put it to far better use than this blog....obviously. A lot of things have taken place- Adjusting to having Karley, My Mom turning "50" yes I said "50", Myah turning "5", Lily being born, playing in the snow, going to some freaking awesome concerts, hanging out with family, and everyday life things. Here are pictures taken from the last 4 months, to catch you up to speed...and yes my life is random-yet wonderful!

The Daughtry Concert!!!!

Mikell and I stoked...we had floor seats!

Um the bald dreamboat :o)

Lifehouse...

There he is again. Chris Daughtry is fine...

This fine piece of man is the drummer from Cavo. Ps He's Mine and Mikell's boyfriend

Envy on the Coast!!!!!!!

"Glamour Shot"... ha ha Keely and I being "hawt"...

Here is Ryan Hunter the lead singer.. the dread headed dreamboat...

His voice seriously is Amazing!

this concert was flippin shweet!

Snow days.....

This bugger was heavy!

Hanging with family-

The best auntie in the world!!

Grammy and Kar hanging out

My niece Lily Bug....I miss her :o(

My niece Danica...I miss her too :o(

Tiyana's t-ball game... I love her!

Here is "SupaMaan" Hayden. He wears this cape everywhere!

Everyday Happenings....

My purpose. My whole world.

sweet dreams for a sweet boy.

"Peace"

They really are friends..despite this picture.

The beasts- AKA- Arthur and Jason

"For those who love to rock".....she salutes you?

One in a million chances that all of them are asleep like this???

Karley loves bath time...

------------------------------
Lily Cianna Christensen

Feb. 18, 2010
7 lbs. 20 inches

Here is my brother Chester with his precious baby girl..

----------------------------------------------------------

Myah turns 5 years old!!!!!!!!!!

The birthday girl in her caa-ute birthday outfit. Her bro is pretty stylin too.

So I attempted to do Marshmallow Fondant.
FAIL. Kinda cute in dim lighting??

"Spaghetti Tacos"- really good.

Myah and her favorite Keely..

Hayd and Grandpa swimmin..

"I can kick, stretch and kick...I'm 50..50 years old."

My Mom's birthday cake

Some of our family that came to her surprise pizza party..

My Dad- The pizza guru making pizza's for the 40 people that came to show my mom the love they have for her... She is pretty AMAZING!

And baby makes 3-kids that is!

This picture is simply precious. I love my girls.

Holy Stink she is beautiful!

To answer your question- Yes she is this cute!

snuggling with my first baby....

snuggling with my second baby...

Hayd thinks "Kar-gee" is pretty neat!

I just love being her mommy and getting to know her!

Arthur...

2010-01-07T12:19:00.001-08:00

So Jason decided that it would be great for the kids and him to have a dog. Jokingly he claimed that "I get to have a baby, so the kids and him need something to play with." Technically Arthur joined our family December 6th. I haven't really had the time to post any pictures of him. So I had a second, so here he is. By the way he is a Blue Merle Blue Heeler. He is dang cute!

Arthur...

Dang he is super cute!

Myah and Hayd love their new puppy.

Karley's Arrival...

2010-01-07T10:54:00.000-08:00

" There are two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle."-Albert Einstein

Here's Karley!!

The NICU team being amazed by Karley's awesomeness..

Jas the proudest Daddy...

My little "peanut"...

The latter part of my pregnancy with Karley had kinda been a roller coaster. I started contracting at 32 1/2 weeks. My midwife sent me to L&D to be monitored. Once I got hooked up, the contractions stopped. After having several tests, premature labor had been ruled out. Little did I know 2 1/2 weeks later, things would change!
I went into my midwife on the 15th of December because I thought that I started to leak amniotic fluid. Um, I peed my pants( Miles Davis would be proud)!!!! But the Fetal Fibronectin Test was positive this time... so my midwife advised me to take things easy. But 3 days later December 18th at 7:45 am, my water broke! The stress and worry really set in because I was only 35 weeks and 2 days along!!! Jason got the kids ready and my Dad came to take them up to his house. To the hospital I went.
Once I was situated, the NICU came into my room and consulted me, of what would take place when Karley was delivered. With her being as early as she was, there was obvious concern that her lungs wouldn't be fully developed. I got really emotional, panicked that I wouldn't be able to hold my baby and she wouldn't be able to come home with me!! I prayed and prayed that everything would be OK with her!
God REALLY LISTENS AND ANSWERS PRAYERS!! After 16 hours of labor-lots and lots of pitocin and 9 pushes(not to be too graffic), our little miracle- Karley made her grand entrance at 11:51 pm!! She was 6 pounds, 19 inches of pink wonderfulness!! After being assessed and totally amazed the NICU for 30 minutes, she was safe and sound in my arms!!
Words cannot even begin to describe how blessed and thankful I am, to be Karley's mommy! Not to mention she is perfect and healthy. This little girl has the most sweet spirit!. Did I mention that she is WONDERFUL??!! Karley has made our family complete. As a parent, you are bias of your children, but I honestly have the most beautiful and amazingly wonderful kids in the universe!

P.S. I forgot to mention how friggin awesome my midwife Lindsay Breinholt is and was through this whole experience!

My brother the "Balla"....

2009-12-07T14:04:00.000-08:00

My youngest brother Preston, as many of you know is quite gifted with his athletic abilities.. This year he is the Captain of his Junior High's Basketball Team. Myah, Hayd and I have had a few opportunities to go watch him in action. I just have to say that I brings me so much pride to watch him shine! Preston is really dedicated to being a leader to his team, because that is more than I can say for the teachers who are supposed to be the "coaches". This year his team have made it to the district finals! Which is dang cool if you ask me! Preston holds the dream of some day making it "big" and I know that if he continues on the path that he is on right now, those dreams will be his reality!! I love you Pop, now go show em' how it's done!!

#3 in action.....

"swish".....

Gardner Village, the pumpkin patch and Halloween ( catch up part 4)..

2009-12-01T09:47:00.000-08:00

In October at Gardner Village, they set up really cool displays with witches. So my Mom, Keely, Kirb, Myah, Hayd, my cousins Heidi and Rachel and their kids and I, walked around the shops and went on a witch hunt. Also we took the kids to the petting zoo that is there. Myah and Hayd got to ride ponies. We actually had a pretty fun time.

The "Witch Hunt"-

Hayd, Myah and Keely scoping out one of the many witches on display..

So cute that they weren't fighting....

Myah riding "Sweet Pea"....

Hayd riding "Pal the Pony"....

They had so much fun!

The Pumpkin Patch.....

We went to the pumpkin patch with my Mom, Dad, Keely, and Kirby. It was really cold and muddy but fun. It was fun getting pumpkins as a family. We even got to go for a hayride out to the pumpkin patch.. This could be a really fun tradition to start up for sure.....

This pumpkin patch was huge!

Myah and Grandpa....

Hayd trying to be patient in line...

The Kirby's....

The Hay Ride out to the pumpkin patch....

Hayden's, Myah's and Karley's Pumpkins....

Happy Halloween!

Hayd... I mean "PIDA-MANN".....

The cutest witch there ever was.......

Hayden's favorite part of the Halloween Party!

Myah thought it was pretty rad too...

Keely's 19th Birthday (playing catch up part 3)...

2009-12-01T08:46:00.001-08:00

There is no better friend than a sister, and there is no better sister than you.....

Holy Stink- my baby sister is 19 years old!!! I can remember carrying her around like she was one of my dolls, and my friends and I fighting over who could hold her. It seriously is crazy how fast life flies by! I am so blessed and grateful to have Keely as my sister! She is the most amazing young woman! I admire her for her honesty, integrity, beauty, brains, confidence, strength and last but not least her cynical sense of humor! Keely truly has the best personality! She has the biggest heart! I really value my relationship with her. Even though I am 8 years older than Kee, I look up to her.

Myah, Hayden and Karley are honestly, the luckiest kids in the world, to have Keely for an aunt. Myah and Hayd (and I am positive that Karley will) have the best relationship with her! Keely goes out of her way to show them, just how special they are to her! When most people who are her age are caught up in college, or dating, or working, Keely manages to do all of this and still has time for my kids. Which means the world to me!

Keely- I am so thankful to have you in my life! I love you with all of my heart! Thank-you for always being you!

The birthday girl......

Watching my Hero Shine (playing catch up part 2)

2009-11-29T10:36:00.000-08:00

So every year Kirby competes in the Fall Special Olympics. I love attending the games to watch my hero shine. Kirb plays his heart out, and in return it makes my heart so proud! Watching the athletes giving it their all, really puts things into perspective for me. As we all go through life, we lose touch of what is really important ; To love and accept one another for who we are. That being "different" is great, because if we were all the same, life would be so lame and boring! For example- during one of games, a player from Kirby's team bumped into a player from the other team, which made them both fall down. The player from the other team even lost his glasses in the fall. They both helped each other get back up and Kirb's teammate even helped the other player get his glasses back on correctly. Even with the same goal in mind, they both stopped to help each other out. This was probably one of the most touching, tender things that I have ever witnessed!

For the record- I would like to express, how incredibly blessed I am to not only have Kirby as a member of my family, but for a brother and an uncle to my children. I am grateful for the many lessons of unconditional love and patience that he has taught me the past 21 years! Everyday, Kirb inspires me to not give up when life gets turbulent! To "keep on trucking", as hard as it is. Kirby is wise beyond his years!

" Let me win, but if I cannot win, Let me be brave in the attempt."- Special Olympic's Motto

Kirb in action.....

2009 Comets Team...

One of my favorite pictures ever.. Only the coolest Kirby's in the Galaxy..

The face of DETERMINATION...

The Olympic Village and the various activities.....

While attending the games, Myah and Hayd had so much fun at the village. They got their faces painted, grubbed on cotton candy and even went to the dance that was held for the athletes..

"Pida-maan".....

"Butterfly".....

The cotton candy wearing off...

Dancing with Grandma... not very thrilled apparently...

We once were all family... but then again things change....

Myah and Keely.....

Kayla and Kirb....

Hayden making his Daddy proud...rock on AC/DC!!

Lets play catch up.... Part 1

2009-11-29T10:16:00.000-08:00

So once again I found myself getting caught up in life's craziness.... It's been over 2 months now since I have blogged. So I thought I would review and share with you what has taken place in that time.

Jason turns 31!

The past month or so...in a nutshell...

2009-09-27T09:09:00.000-07:00

Slacker of blogging is my middle name. I kinda got caught up in life and all of it's craziness. So here is a refresher of what has been happening here in the Richards household, in the past month or so....

BABY UPDATE-

We found out that we are having a little girl. Her name is Karley Mae. Her ETA is January 17, 2010. Our family is excited, to say the least! Myah and Hayd are super stoked about being older siblings! I can't wait to meet this sweet little blessing!!

LaGoOn
Over Labor Day weekend, Jason and I took the kids to Lagoon. Myah and Hayden had soo much fun. I wish that I could say the same! You know that you are old when you'd almost rather go have dental work done, than be stuck at Lagoon for 8 hours! Jason's niece Kelly was a life saver and hung out with us, to help take the Myah and Hayd on some rides. A major shout out to Kell! THANK YOU!!

The Park

This summer Myah, Hayd and I have played at some really cool parks that are by our house. Here are some pictures...

Last, but not least GRANDMA'S & GRANDPA'S house

This summer we have gone up A LOT to my mom's to hang out. We always have such a great time hanging out with everyone! I am so glad that we live as close as we do....

Only the "fly-est", most coolest Grandparents alive!

Myah's first picture taking.

So long Summer,, Hello Fall!!!

2009-08-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

The Rodeo......

2009-08-20T19:52:00.000-07:00

So last week at the Davis County Fair, there was a rodeo. Jas and I thought that it would be a blast for the kids. Myah thought it was great. Hayden on the other hand was not thrilled, to say the least! Oh my, it was seriously the longest 2 hours of my LIFE( Besides our Disney On Ice experience)!! I am thinking that the outing to the rodeo, will probably be the last event that our family, will attend with Hayd for a really long time!! But here are some highlights of the ever so splendid evening.....

Here is Kirb and Grandma. He totally rocked Myah's "Cowboy Girl Hat".....

Can you you say Yee-haa Ruby?? I sure did.....

Cause we're the best of friends....

2009-08-14T20:41:00.000-07:00

Heidi, my bestest of best friends, came to visit Utah last week. I was so stoked that we could get together while she was in town, because she only gets away from California once a year. Heidi and I have been friends for over 22 years!! When we get together all we do is laugh-Hysterically!! I am so thankful that I have been able to maintain a friendship with her for so many years. One thing that you learn really fast when you "grow up" is that great, true friends are very far and few! But she is more like a sister to me- A sista from another mister, is what we like to say. These are some pictures that we took.... they are self explanatory!

HaYdEn'S 3 rd BiRtHdAy and then some......

2009-08-14T19:33:00.000-07:00

So more or less I have been a slacker with this blog lately... Some really cool things have happened recently, like Hayden turning 3 years old!! I can't believe how fast my little man is growing! It seems just like yesterday that I got to meet, hold and see his sweet little face, for the first time! Words cannot express, how incredibly blessed and grateful I am, to be Hayden's mommy! He literally is my whole world and then some(so is his sister Myah)!! Not to sound cliche, but time really does fly by when you are having fun. Here are some pictures, of the many birthday celebrations that our families had for him......

August 2nd- Hayden's actual birthday:

Hayd playing at the Clearfield Aquatic Center's water playground.....

Myah, Jas and Hayd swimming.......

Kirb and Myah waiting for Hayd to go down the slide......

Having so much fun........

Hayd's cake at the BBQ at my parents.....

August 8th- The BBQ at our house the following weekend for Hayd's birthday......

Here's Jas, Uncle Bobby, Auntie Marissa, Grandpa Ray and Uncle John doing heelstretches.....

Auntie Keely & Oliver, Michael, Gabriella, Uncle C.H and Grandma Mindy.......

Spiderman pinata time.....

Hayd eating some candy.....

It was sooo awesome to have our whole family (minus Grandpa Kirby who was on-call) together!!

In Remembrance......

2009-07-28T17:39:00.000-07:00

Eight years ago today, my family lost such an amazing man- My Grandpa Swift. Shelley was a man with such a great heart and sense of humor. He was one of the most brilliant, loving, understanding and compassionate men that I have ever had the opportunity to know and love. I have so many wonderful memories of him. Like going to his farm to pick cherries and peaches, riding on his tractor, going for rides in his most awesome convertible Cadillac, going out for Mexican and Chinese food, listening to stories of his life, Crossword Puzzles, Sweep-stakes,Jeopardy and the Golden Girls, watching him cook and making sandwiches with 1000 island dressing instead of mayo, watching him tend to his beautiful yard and gardens, eating spaghettios for breakfast when I would sleep over, sneaking into his office with my cousin Nancy to steal gummy worms, Easter Egg hunts and the awesome Pink Acid washed Denim Jacket, that he and my Grandma gave me for Christmas when I was 7. I literally could keep going on and on and on! The most important thing about my Grandpa Swift was that he loved and accepted me for who I am. Truly, I am blessed to have had him for my only Grandpa!! Still after 8 years my heartaches, that I no longer have him in my life. But I know that he is in Heaven, no longer sick and suffering, watching out for my family and I. So I am writing this post to express my love and gratitude that will always have for my Grandpa. I love you Grandpa. I miss you! There isn't a day that goes, by when I don't think of you!!

Antelope Island....

2009-07-28T09:59:00.001-07:00

Saturday our family took a trip out to Antelope Island. Jason and I hadn't been out there since we were little kids. It was super hot, but really cool to show Myah and Hayd the Buffalo, Antelope and the farm that is out there. We even got to pet some horses that live there. I would have taken tons more pictures, but the battery died in the camera.

Sheesh they are MASSIVE!!

July 24 th......

2009-07-27T08:41:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the highlights from our family's July 24th celebration at my Mom's.....

Fireworks.....

Cheers from Kirb.....

Myah, Grandma and Hayden...it is rare to have them sit still long enough to get a picture!!

Grandma and Hayd.....

Grandma and Myah.......

Family Farkle Fun- (I know you will appreciate this one Nancy, Chrisanne and the rest of the Lage clan!)

Last but not least- My little cowboy wearing GiGi's(Grandma Nancy) glasses.....

Haircuts......

2009-07-19T11:49:00.000-07:00

So Hayden has been needing a haircut for awhile. Due to the fact that it is such a traumatic experience for him(and me), I have been on a search for a great hair salon that caters to kids. Over by my Mom's is this place called Snipits. So I thought I would give it a shot. I highly recommend it to anyone with children. It has such a fun and easy going atmosphere. Hayden did way better than I anticipated. He even smiled a few times!! He got to eat suckers, blow bubbles, and after it was all over, he got a toy airplane for being such a good boy... Now he is a stylin' little man with an awesome hair do!

The past few weeks....

2009-07-14T14:15:00.001-07:00

-The 4th of July get together at Grandma Kari's....

Extremely noisy fireworks....

Tiyana and Myah....What silly girls!

Jason.....

-Fun in the sun with the cousins....

Hayd isn't quite sure if he likes it or not...

Myah is a swimming machine.....

Post swimming ....what a comfy couch!

-The Farmington Parade.....

Here's Kelly, Myah, Hayden and Jason....

Waiting for the candy.......

Hayden and I... he isn't to thrilled to be sitting on my lap.......

KELLY CLARKSON.....

2009-06-18T08:46:00.000-07:00

Kelly Clarkson and her AMAZING-NESS.....

So I had taken really good video, but it won't upload....Lame!

The rainbow that turned into a double rainbow that stretched over the stadium...it was a sign!!!

Kirb, Mom, Me and Keely and our "HAWT-NESS"

The Kirbster and I

Keely and I wondering if we will ever get out of the parking lot, while rocking out to "Jai Ho"...

"Never, never, never give up"-Winston Churchill

2009-06-01T12:50:00.000-07:00

So last Friday was a great day. My brother Kirby graduated from this program that he has been involved in for the past 3 years! It is called STEPS. It is a program designed for individuals who are developmentally delayed. After high school Kirby enrolled to help him stay busy, and receive vocational rehab( job training). Due to the fact that Kirb is so "high functioning"(lingo that is used to describe a learning level of an individual with a disability, I think the lingo is a load of crap, but that's just my opinion) he really struggled with it and how he wasn't able to be as independent as he wanted to. But he persevered and pushed through and completed STEPS!! I am so proud of him! My whole family is so proud of him!! Kirby really inspires me!! He has taught me so many of life's lessons, that most people don't ever learn in a life time. First Kirby has taught me to "Never, never, never give up". As difficult as a situation might be- keep fighting, no matter how much you want to throw in your towel. Another one of life's important lessons- Unconditional Love. It doesn't matter how many zero's are on your paycheck, or how big your house is, or what clothes you wear, or if you are skinny or fat, etc... He truly loves you for who you are!! I am so blessed to have him for a brother and one of my very best friends!! I am even more blessed that he is my children's uncle. Kirby is my hero!!!

Here's Kirb and I being dorks!!

Another blessing from up above....

2009-05-18T18:25:00.001-07:00

All that I have to say is that I am really blessed and grateful, to have the opportunity to be a mommy again to the new baby boy or baby girl, that our family is expecting early next year!!

A week in St. George...

2009-05-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

This past week has been much needed! Myah, Hayden and I ran away to hang out with Jason in St. George! We had so much fun! (In spite of the hell-ishly hot temperatures.) While Jason worked the kids and I played at some really cool parks, attempted to hike around a bit(attempted being the key-word) and went sight seeing. We were also able to go to Hurricane to visit our good friends Marvin and Tamar and their kids. While at Marvin's house, Myah and Hayden had their first encounter with Marvin's Bearded Dragon. Seeing the kids reaction was a memorable experience. I had a wonderful Mother's Day. Jas, Myah and Hayd took me to brunch at IHOP. Then we went for a scenic tour. I was able to get what I wanted for Mommy's Day. I got to be with my family. It was great!!!

Miss Myah...

Mr. Hayden...

The Bluff St. Park....

Tehya(Marvin's daughter), Hayden, lizard and Marvin...

Fun times....

Myah and Jas in Volcano Country...

Hayden asleep... of course! I think he knew I wanted to get a pic of all of us together..oh-well.

Jas and I Mother's Day scenic tour...

Myah and Hayd at the Main Street Fountain Park...

Fun in the sun....

But aside from all of the fun our family had down there, I do have to express my gratitude for my wonderful husband! He works so hard to provide for our family and for me to have the opportunity to stay at home with Myah and Hayden. He has such an amazing work ethic. Even when this current situation is less than desirable, he still gives 110%. I am grateful that he is an example to Myah and Hayd. I hope that as they grow older, they will learn that they should do their best, regardless if it's fun or not. That good things come from hard work! That it's never easy, but it is worth it!

Our trip to St. George.....

2009-04-28T08:41:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Myah, Hayden and I decided that we needed a change of scenery. So we went to visit Jason in St. George. Can I just tell you, how nice and needed it was to get out of "So Fake-Salt Lake"(as Mikell would say)?! Despite Myah and Hayden having a 24 hour stomach bug-flu type thing Friday night. As bad as it sounds, it was nice not having to wash barfy sheets, the dear housekeeping staff did it for me instead. Then we found out that Jason had to work Saturday!
Myah and Hayden seemed like they were feeling better by Saturday afternoon. So we went for a drive through St. George. While we were out, we went to In-N-Out. Tasty, tasty! That night, with Myah and Hayd feeling better, we got together with some old friends, that live down there, for a BBQ and a Bonn fire(for old times sake). It was really cool to have us all together again, after so many years. Seeing the way our children interacted with one another, was priceless! But it was cut short by the stomach bug getting the best of me Saturday night :o( So we had to leave Paul's house to get me back to the hotel. I vow from this day on I, I will never ever eat at In-N-Out again!

Myah sitting inside watching I-Carly. She wasn't fond of the fire pit gathering.

Hayden is just like his dad- He loves fire- Oh dear!

Hanging out by Paul's fire pit.

This is my artistic pic of a windmill on our family scenic tour..

Sunday I started feeling better. I wanted to make the most of our trip, so we went to the infamous "Colorado City." As many of you know, Jason's father's family lives and practices there. He wanted to show me what it was like in person. Can you just say CULTURE SHOCK?? Now I am in no means casting stones, but Oh My Goodness!! For starters, it's in the middle of the desert no-where, the roads aren't paved, there aren't any street lamps and people are not allowed to have dogs. But it was somewhat interesting to see their homes and how large they are(obviously they would have to be big with so many people living in them). How large the church is! It holds 5,ooo followers!! But aside from that we went to the cemetery there, so Jas could pay his respects and visit his grandfather's grave. Which really meant a lot to him.

This is a view of the polygamist's church... from the cemetery where we visited Jason's grandfather's grave.

I had to get a pic of this house...Obviously it doesn't have windows, but like many other homes here, it doesn't have brick, siding or stucco. It's ply-wood, painted ply-wood??

Weekend Fun Part 2...

2009-04-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

Due to the fact that I have been a little camera happy this weekend, I wasn't able to post all the pictures, that I wanted to in my previous post. Last night, I went up to my parents to do Keely's make-up for her prom. She is absolutely B-E-A-UTIFUL!! My little sister is growing up and I am so proud of the woman that she has become!! She amazes me! Gosh, I love her!!

Here's Keely..being Keely

Keely and her date Brad...Cuteness!!

Their super-sweet "chucks"....

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This afternoon, I hung out with Stephanie while Myah, Hayden and Landon played together. Jason and Wally decided to pull out one of the lillac bushes in our yard. Then mysteriously the hole, where the lillac bush once lived, was full of water, Myah, Hayden and Landon. OH MY-LANTA!! I about had a heart attack, I am not even kidding!!

Here's is the mud-princess Myah...

And the mud-prince Hayden...

And the other mud-prince Landon...

Weekend Fun Part 1....

2009-04-19T16:53:00.000-07:00

Our family had an awesome weekend! Jason came home!!! The weather was AMAZING! So yesterday Jason, Myah, Hayden and I, went to the park and had a picnic and played in the backyard...Here are some pictures:

Hayden wrestling with Jas..

Jas pushing Myah on the tire swing, while Hayden observes..

The duck that has been hanging out in the pond in our backyard...I thought for sure that Myah and Hayden had scared it off for good..but it keeps coming back??

Hayd and Myah playing at the playground, running and falling down the huge hill at the park...

Sushi...

2009-04-16T21:06:00.000-07:00

So, in the past I haven't ever understood the whole "sushi" craze. While Myah, Hayden and I were groccery shopping at the Sunflower Farmer's Market earlier today, I came across these super tasty looking California Rolls. So I thought I would give sushi another try. I am pretty sure that it is delicious!! Myah and Hayden weren't sold on it, so they had chicken instead. Oh well! A disclaimer to this post: Yes it might seem as though I really need to get a hobby or something, when I am posting things about sushi...but it was a cool trying to show Myah and Hayden that trying new things, is fun. That you never know unless you try, which easily can pertain to anything in life.

Just another chill day...

2009-04-15T20:59:00.000-07:00

So rumor of another storm moving in, motivated us to enjoy the sunshine while it was still here. The kids have been just fascinated with the hammock swing that is in the yard. It is a rare thing for Myah and Hayden to sit still by one another, so I had to take some pics of it! Sure enough, after I got one picture of them together, Hayden wanted to get out of the swing to chase the quails in our yard. Poor birds..I hope they come back! I really am looking forward to the nicer weather to actually stay!! And that my friends, is all that I have to say about that...until next time.

I literally had to beg Myah to get out of the swing...she can be quite a stubborn individual..I wonder where she gets that from??

Hayden riding his old rocking horse...

Easter

2009-04-14T22:48:00.001-07:00

Our Easter started out by the kids eagerly trying to find their baskets, that the Easter Bunny left. In about 3 seconds flat my living room was covered in that horrid grass..(which I made a mental note to never ever purchase that stuff again!) I am trying to start traditions in my family, so I thought that I would make the kids a special breakfast for Easter. I made french toast....in the process of me cooking the french toast, Myah and Hayden enjoyed a breakfast of easter candy instead... Then I got Myah and Hayden dressed in their new Easter outfits. Then we went up to my parents and hung out for awhile. Then we went to Mikell's for dinner. Myah, Hayden and I were really bummed that Jason wasn't able to make it home from St. George to spend the holiday with us..but there is always next year. Aside from that, I do have to say how grateful I am for my Savior and the sacrifices that he made for me. I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to be a mother to Myah and Hayden. They are my whole world and then some!

Danica's Birthday Bash...

2009-03-23T12:42:00.000-07:00

Last night Myah, Hayden and I attended my niece Danica's 1 st birthday party! It was really nice to have all of us together. There were so many people!! We just love Danica to pieces! She is one of the sweetest babies that I have ever known!

Here's Danica having a grand ol' time smooshing her cake all over!

The birthday girl sharing her cup with Hayden(who isn't quite sure what's going on)..

What a cute little family!!

Hayden provided the entertainment for the evening...

What a beautiful day..

2009-03-20T22:27:00.000-07:00

The weather has been amazing lately! Today was simply beautiful, so Myah and Hayden played with their cousins Landon and Rylie, in our backyard. They had so much fun and they actually got along with each other! I am looking foward to many more of these beautiful days! I am so over being couped up and I know that Myah and Hayden feel the same way!

Here's Myah being a good little driver...

Hayden having fun trying to figure out how to steer the motorcycle...

Just cruzin around the yard...

Here's Landon being silly on the swings..

Rylie getting ready to jump out of the swing..

Spring is here to stay..hopefully!

2009-03-17T07:35:00.001-07:00

So as Myah and Hayden and I were playing in the yard yesterday, I noticed such a great sight...the first "bloom" in a flower bed..YAY! Our yard is soo beautiful in the spring and summer. I am so over the brown grass and deadness in the yard. I can't wait till the green house opens and I can officially start gardening. Wahoo!!

This is one of the many flower
beds in my yard, but the only
one with a flower in it.

Here is the flower up close...
Who ever said that I might
have too much time on my
hands??

A night of High School Musical Fun??

2009-03-15T15:07:00.000-07:00

Our family had a hilarious night. To back-track a bit....Myah had gotten a"Gabriella" dress up costume from High School Musical, for her 4 th birthday. She hadn't ever played with it. So after watching High School Musical 1 last night, it inspired Myah to want to dress up like "Ella". So I took the dress and infamous "wig" out of the package. She was really afraid of the wig(I don't blame her). Jason being the goof-ball that he is, thought it might help Myah not be afraid of it, if we all tried the heinous thing on... So we did... Hayden was the only one who wasn't very thrilled about wearing it. Although these photos could be used as blackmail, I hope that they give you a chuckle, because they crack me up!

Lunch with Kell..

2009-03-05T13:02:00.000-08:00

Today Myah, Hayden and I, went to lunch with Mikell and Tiyana... What an adventure it was. I swear like the whole state of Utah decided to go to sizzler at the same time as us. Hayden wasn't very thrilled about being there, which kinda made the rest of us not very thrilled to be there either!! I kinda wished that he had behaved better because we went for Mikell's b-day. But what can you do??(maybe start a taking Zanex! just kidding!!) But aside from that, it was nice to get out of the house. I do have to say how much I love my sister in-law! Mikell is such a strong and beautiful woman and I am so blessed to have her in my life! Myah and Hayden are very fortunate to have an auntie who loves them as much as she does. I value my friendship with her very much! I am grateful and appreciate that she is always there for me whenever I need to talk, or for a shoulder to cry on, or just someone to laugh with!! I heart her!

Uncle "B"

2009-03-03T10:07:00.000-08:00

So my brother Kirby came down to our house last night, to hang out and keep us some company while Jason is out of town. Myah and Hayden were thrilled that uncle "B" slept over!! After they wen't to bed, Kirb and I stayed up till 2:30 watching backstreet boys music videos and a movie. We had soo much fun singing along! I just have to say that I am so blessed and proud that Kirby is my brother and Myah and Hayd's uncle! He is such an amazing man with such a sweet spirit! He truly is my Hero!

Distance makes the heart grow fonder..I think not!

2009-03-02T09:27:00.000-08:00

Today has been rough for me. Do you ever wish that your spouse would go on a trip or leave the house for awhile? But then when it comes to it, you want them to stay home? Geez louise! Jason is leaving today, to go work in St. George for 2 weeks! I kept asking him if there was another foreman that could go and over see the job. But there isn't. Oh-well, I keep telling myself, at least he has a job-work, during this rough time with our economy, because alot of people aren't as fortunate to be employeed. But I still am kinda bummed. Myah, Hayden and I are really going to miss him. It's always rough on the kids and I when he has to go out of town. But I know that we will manage. I have to look on the bright-side..my house will stay clean and I will have less laundry(which really isn't a bad thing). Well I will get off of my soap box, for now anyways.

Technnology Forever...

2009-03-01T09:11:00.000-08:00

So this is the very first blog post that I have ever written, so bear with me..After being a stay at home mom now for the past 2 years, I have felt totally shut off from the outside world. Our family recently purchased a computer. I have had the most frustrating time getting this thing up and running. Through this experience I have learned that I should have payed attention to the stupid tech. classes in highschool..(clearly the classes aren't so stupid after all). But as a side note I have to express my thankfulness for being able to have a computer in the first place. Now that I have that off of my chest, I am going to give you some background about my little family. My husband(Jason) and I have been married for going on 6 years now. We have been blessed with 2 of the most AMAZING children(Myah-4 and Hayden-2). I love being a wife(most of the time), and being a mommy. Jason, Myah and Hayden are my whole world and then some! What can I say? They complete me and I am so very blessed!