Annelle saves the day!!

Winter has struck here in Herriman! We are all white with drifted snow as far as the eye can see. I love winter, and snow as long as I don't get stuck in my car in it, which was the case today. I had to get to SF to show our house today and thought on my way out of Herriman I would stop at a friends and drop a little Christmas surprise. She lives in a cul-de-sac which on a normal day would be an insignificant detail but today is different. Apparently the City of Herriman feels that those who live in a cul-de-sac should dig themselves out of a winter storm rather than the snow plows removing the snow. As I pulled into the cul-de-sac (that is getting annoying to type) I was surprised that it was such a mess of snow but thought since everyone else had made it out onto the main road I to would have success....not the case. I about tore the oil pan off the bottom of the Accord due to over sized, jagged, iced over snow balls in the middle of the road, thank you nice snow plow man for all of your good work. Then when I went to leave I got stuck! I am cursing everything in complete anger, call Darin at work--because he is a lot of help at this point 45 min. away--angry because I don't have an SUV-because if I did I wouldn't be stuck-and even more ticked at the SNOW PLOW-or lack of snow plow. As I am crying to Darin, literally, I hear Madalyn in the back seat. She asks Maile why I am sadding. I don't know what Maile's response was but a few seconds later I hear Maile (Annelle) say "I know! We can say a prayer and Heavenly Father will help us get out." Then, she proceeds to pray. Honestly, I had very little faith at that point. Darin had given me the number of a guy in our ward that works from home but of course I got the answering machine. I thought I will try one more time. I threw her in to reverse and PUNCHED it!! As we are cruising in R, Maile is cheering in the back seat: "Mom, I prayed! Heavenly Father heard and he is answering my prayer!! I prayed twice but he only heard the second one!" Thank goodness for tender prayers.

Love Connection

I have this really hot friend that is completely single!! She's an absolute doll and I just love her to death. I set her up and she is going out with him tonight! I really think this is going to be a love connection! I am so excited for her and hope she has a super good time. I am a little jealous of her I must say...for lots of reasons but especially because this beau is taking to a Christmas Ball so she had to get..... "Cinderella for the ball" (I stole that one from Harry Dunn, I don't think he'll mind!) and went and got her hair and make-up done!! Lucky girl!! I love a good excuse to look smashing!! I'll give you the up to the minute report on the outcome. :) BTW, I told her to take a quick trip to the powder room so she could text me....something tells me it's not going to happen!

My sweet Annelle

Annelle: [stands up after praying] Amen.

M'Lynn: [looking confused at Truvy] Was she just praying?

Truvy: [rolling eyes, frustrated] Yes.

M'Lynn: Why?

Truvy: Maybe she's praying for Marshall and Drew and Belle. Maybe she's praying for us because we're gossiping. Maybe

she's praying because the elastic is shot in her pantyhose!

Who knows! She prays a the drop of a hat these days.

I think Maile very well could be Annelle. She is ALWAYS praying. The latest was earlier today during a conversation with Madalyn. She suddenly bowed her head and closed her eyes. I asked her why she was praying, she said: "because Madalyn said she hates Santa. So I prayed that she would love him because I do and I think everyone should love him."

My Special Day

When I got the mail today there was a special surprise inside! My sister-in-law subscribed me to Taste of Home Magazine! I am super excited. I love the magazine, there are so many yummy recipes and fun things to try, and they are generally at my level! Thank you, Kristi! You really shouldn't have!!

Cooking Class

Waaaaayyyyy back in October a friend and I took a cooking class at Thanksgiving Point featuring Kelsey from last season's Next Food Network Star. Lisa and I kept up on the show together so it was so fun to get to see her live in action! When it aired and hoped Kelsey would win she didn't but she is plenty busy otherwise. She told us all about everything she has going on including an Internet cooking show. She also gave us a little insight on the show and some behind the scenes info. Kesley is a super cute girl, she is so normal, she even suggested buying appliances from Wal-Mart which shocked me coming from a real chef.

This was so fun and her food was so good! I especially loved her Butternut Squash Soup. I was a little nervous about it but it is delish and has become one of my favorites.

Thanks for the invite Lisa, this was too fun!!

Oh, and she is tiny!! I am darn near on my knees in this picture. I don't think we could have gotten both of us in the same frame otherwise. When I stood next to her I felt as tall as Shrek!

Check out kelseyskitchen.com, she has some really simple recipes with normal ingredients!

I have really lost track of this whole blog thing! I got busy with other things and blogging took the back burner. I wanted to jot a few cute things down that the girls have said/done lately.

Faith

A few days a go the girls were playing with their babies. They went downstairs and drug nearly all of their babies upstairs and made little beds all over the place, some in their room, in the office, linen closet and the bathtub--their favorite place to put their "kids" to bed. When I inquired about the plot of their play, Maile responded dramatically, "all of our babies are so sick, they have been throwing up in the night and they have fevers so we gave them some medicine and they still didn't get better so we held them and.............." Finally she tells me they gave all of their kids blessings. So I asked how she did it, she explained and said "actually just like Daddy does, and now all the kid feel better."

Potty Mouth

Madalyn: Mom, we don't say shit, huh?

Mom: (surprised) What???!!!!

Madalyn: We don't say shit, huh Mom?

Me: No Mad, we don't, where did you learn that?

Madalyn: At Abby's (Mad's cousin)

Me: You did?

Madalyn: Yeah, but we don't say shit huh Mom?

Me: No, we don't. If we say it we will be in big trouble.

Madalyn: Abby doesn't say shit either. If Abby says shit she get 'pankin.

Me: Nobody can say it, it's a bad word.

Madalyn: Okay Mom, I won't say shit anymore.

Picture Madalyn being as calm as can be and every time she says shit she lisps. It really was so cute. FYI, she hasn't said it since.

Buns in the Oven

No, not me, had you going!! I swear we live in a baby factory. Everyone is pregnant or has had a baby recently or wants to be expecting. We are surrounded by babies!! I love it. I love babies especially the ones that are too young to care that I am not their mom so they will give me some real snuggle. Allyson's Halle is real good for that, I could really keep her for an extended stay! :) Maile has asked A LOT of questions about babies, where they come from, how they get in there, and how they get out! She has concluded that they get there because Heavenly Father puts them there via the belly button, which is also where they exit. Sounds good to me. She has also convinced Madalyn that they were in my tummy together. The story goes something like this:

Maile was in there swimming around (don't ask me how she knows she was buoyant) and Madalyn showed up one day. Maile makes it very clear that she was there first OCS (oldest child syndrome). They played/swam together and then one day Maile had to be born. So I went to the hospital and she crawled out of my belly button. She always completes the story by informing us how cute and little she was and that the nurses put a bow and a curl in her hair. That last part she stole from the actual event, yes, it is true. She also tells Mad that she had to stay in my tummy for a long, long time.---Actually, Maile is the one who over stayed her welcome and Madalyn checked out a little early, but who's counting?

Maile really wants a baby sister, another one. She has been asking when why all of her friends have babies and we don't. I guess her dolls aren't cutting it anymore. Maile is a baby lover. We were at a friends house earlier and Maile carried her baby all the way up the stairs! When we got home she told me several times that he was getting kicked and knocked over by all of the other kids so she decided to help him find his mom. She is a natural!!

If only we could have all worn a smile

All we needed was one shot with everyone happy and looking in the right direction. Well, we gave it a good shot anyway:) Maybe next year?

Madalyn, was eating it up. She came up with this pose nearly on her own, hands and all. Isn't she so sweet?!

I like this one. I know no one is looking but it is really us.

Hold the Phone!! We got a smile!!!

The uncertainty of it all is what keeps life interesting. I am laughing about our photo shoot now, last Saturday I wasn't. It makes for good memories!

Dude, you can't be serious!

Madalyn's New Favorite Phrase!!

Madalyn is just one of those kids you just gotta love. Not only is she absolutely beautiful, she is naturally full of personality. She also sucks that little thumb and it just about makes you melt it looks so sweet. I am horrible because I really encourage the whole thumb thing. Whatever, it isn't anything 10 years in braces won't fix! Anyway, Madalyn LOVES, LOVES, LOVES, her big sister. If Maile is at school, or at a friends Madalyn asks and asks about her! Also, if Mad gets in trouble she runs, in a very dramatic fashion, to her big sister for some rather tender consoling. Maile usually looks over her shoulder at me during this with a look of pride as she is making
"it" alright! It makes me laugh.

So the other day we picked Mai up from school and immediately she starts telling us everything that happened during the last 2 hours, play by play. At the same time, like always, Mad is asking all sorts of questions to Maile. Madalyn keeps asking Maile if Abby was there. She continues to ask over and over because she isn't getting a response. Finally, Maile snaps at her and says "Her name isn't ABBy, it's ADDIE!" Madalyn reacts by saying to her "EXCUUUUUSE me Mai!" then calmly sticks her thumb in her mouth, our of disgust of course, and twirls that pony!

We're Gonna Party Like It's......

$1.99!!!! That's right people, a gallon of unleaded gas just broke 2 bucks in Herriman UTAH!!! I've been watchin' it fall but never thought we would see gas in the one's (as Darin put it) again!! CELEBRATE!!

Another first to add to our fairytale

Yesterday was our primary program in our ward. I have always really enjoyed these programs in the past but it was so much more fun with one of my own involved. Maile was so cute, most likely the cutest little girl in the whole primary! :) We had to sit way in the back because the people who are never on time to our block decided to get there on time this week and threw off our plan to sit close. Naturally, I was a little annoyed and find it interesting that people can get to church on time if they really want to. We'll know better for next year.... moving on, We were in perfect alignment with Maile when she stood to sing, coincidence or tender mercy??? Everytime she stood up she would look in our direction and wave, not like a normal wave like you and I would, but more of an "elbow, elbow, wrist,wrist" wave, with her mouth wide open, which gave me the idea that she was doing a service to her baby sister because the open mouth smile is one I have seen her use quite frequently when humoring Madalyn. Madalyn was so excited to see Maile up there and insisted on standing on our laps, waving and yelling, 'Hi,Mai" then, telling Darin and I that she had said, hi Mai. She loved it as much as Maile did and I could tell that she was proud of her "big sister".

I was caught off guard and was a little emotional. I guess because she is growing up. I know she is just a Sumbeam, but 4 years ago a Sunbeam so unimaginable. Honestly, I had to fight the tears back for about the first 10 minuntes of the program.



Maile is such a sweet little girl. She is very bold and soooooo determined. I have struggled with this as her mom but I am seeing that this is going to be her strength. Maile is so loving and is always trying to mother everyone around her, especially her little sister. She is, and is going to be a great example to her family and to others around her. She is so special and we are happy that she graces us with her royal presence! :)

Gotta update my list....

For Christmas this year I told Darin that all I wanted him to get me was to do a few small things around the house. Actually, they are big things but I didn't want to intimidate him. :) The first thing I wanted was some serious work in our laundry room. It is pretty big room for just a laundry room, especially compared to our last place, and is really supposed to be more of a mud room as well. So, I asked Darin if he could do something about a folding counter or cupboards, or both. Honestly, I wasn't planning on getting it, but I thougtht I would put the bug in his ear and maybe, just maybe something would come of it. Well, last week he called me from work and asked me what I thought about a certain style and color of cabinet. He then told me that they were changing out the cabinets in a kitchen display at work and that he got the cabinets for FREE! Horray! He thinks they will be perfect for what I have in mind. Now all I need is a granite remnant.......anyone? Anyone?????

Bless Me

Every time Madalyn coughs, sneezes or makes any noise that reflects either of them she says, "Mom, bless me." So I bless her. On Sunday in church I sneezed. She was sitting on my lap so I whispered in her ear, " Mad, bless me." Instantly she folds her arm and bows her head and starts praying for me. A simple bless you would have been great but I'll take all the extras I can get. She is too sweet.

Another thing about prayers, Maile is pretty entertaining when it is her turn because she prays for everything. Last night at dinner she blessed Madalyn that she would eat good so she could grow and that her birthday come so she could be 3 and and then 4. Darin and I had a little chuckle. Sadly, she didn't eat good and neither did Maile, maybe next time!

Happy Halloween

Renewing our Love

Every year my mom has a Halloween party. It is great fun and I really look forward to it because I have become such a fan of dressing up. All week Darin and I have been trying to think of what to dress up as. Last year we were Dog the bounty hunter, and Beth , his wife. ( if you don't know who they are is it worth googling) Anyway, it came to me this afternoon. I thought it would be a great time for us to have a little renewing of our vows. We decided to go as a shotgun wedding bride and groom. I have never formally attended such an occasion but I have a pretty good imagination of what a bride and a groom may attire themselves in so here it is...... Dum, dum, dum.....................................

The happy couple, at least the bride is!

The cheesy bridal shot

Finally a real family.

I have to say, now that it is all over, two things. First of all sorry to all of my family that had to see me in this HIDEOUS outfit. The pants are definitely tooooo small, then again they are the essence of the get up. Also sorry to Darin's dad. They came into town today just before we left for the party. There are just some things your father in law should never see you in, one of them being butt tight zebra striped leggings--once again the essence!

Honestly, I would do it all over again. I quite liked the whole ensemble. I have seen total white trash walking around in similar outfits and have thought What are they thinking??? I figured it out tonight. Pretty much, you just have act like you think you look ok in what ever it is, even if you know you look absolutely hideous. Now off to our honeymoon.......stay tuned!

Halloweegle

With Halloween just around the corner you can imagine that we have had some talks about what we want to be. Before I bought the girls costumes Maile had come up with some pretty good ideas for a 4 yr old. A few of my favorites were, a rainbow. You know we could all wear our favorite color of shirt and pants (both the same color, of course) and walk really clost together. Or we could be big bouncy balls. She didn't give a description for that one. My favorite idea was that her dad could be "that really big, golden, sparkly, shiny guy on top of the temple with that trumpet, what's his name again?" she would ask. It cracks me up that she wanted her dad to dress up like Moroni. Hey a good role model for sure. Her latest is, since her and Madalyn are going to be witches then I should be a cat and dad should be a broom, "because he's tall". Sounds like a great plan to me, now lets convince Dad. :) We just love all of her great ideas and even better imanination! Nothing is too over the top for this girl, not even Moroni.

Pumpkin Patch

Although the pictures don't show it, the girls really did love this!

I wanna get phyical!

A friend in my ward has this little tradition of hosting dance parties. Apparently, this is the 3rd annual party and all I have to say is that I am a little bummed that I haven't lived here longer. Really, this may be the best thing about Herriman! It was great fun! I learned a little dance from some of the more experienced dancers. I'm not saying it was pretty in fact, I felt a little like Shrek..well, lets say Fiona, afterall, I am a girl. No really, I feel like a big block when it comes to dancing, unless of course it is my signature move (if you are lucky enough to have known it then great, if not think about attending the next party:)).

I love to dress up in a funky get up. Even more than dressing up, I LOVE finding the perfect combination of clearance rack items to come up with a more than desirable finished product. The only thing that would have made this outfit better would have been the zebra leggings in a bigger size.....can't be picky when you're shopping clearance!

So this is the evidence of the night. I have to say I am a little humored with Tammy, the seductive leotard lady, she really worked that costume. Funny thing is, her costume came with a whole character. I wonder where I can get one of those??? I also loved Juno. I thought it was a great idea for a mama to be, Sunny D and all. Thanks for the fun girls, can't wait till the next one!

No, the leg coming out of Charee's head is not part of her costume, rather part of my body.

I know this is the same pose, but I just wanted to reiterate the fact that Leotard Lady came with a compete character, she didn't even move from the position she was in from the last photo! Nice pose!

Check out Leo, another great pose! Looks like she is rubbing off on the others!

I love a good time when the cackles run freely! It was fun to see everyone boogie like they just don't care. I really wish I would've gotten a picture of Amy in that 1988 prom dress. That as quite the dance!

When it rains, it pours. This has been a month long shower. We have been sick forever it seems. It all started at the first of the month when I came down with a head cold. This wasn't your ordinary head cold. My head felt like it could possibly explode and if I thought it would have bee wise to insert a shunt to relieve the pressure I would have done so. Then Mai got a bladder infection. It was the saddest thing. She wet her pants out of the blue one day. She told me she didn't even need to go, that it just came out. Through out the night (which was Friday, of course) and the next morning she was sprinting to the potty only to be disappointed. She was so cute when she would come out of the bathroom and say "my pee tricked me again". I don't know from experience what that's like and I felt so bad for her. It took a few days before she would go potty by herself because it hurt. She wanted me to come in and sit on the edge of the bathtub for moral support. When she finally went by herself we were at my sisters house. When she was finished she found her Daddy and whispered in his ear that she went by herself and she didn't need help anymore because it didn't hurt. We were quite relieved for her as well.

Feeling like we might be out of the woods was a bit premature. On Tuesday of last week Madalyn started complaining of her neck hurting. When I asked her to point to where it hurt it was kind of behind her ear but down her neck. I thought maybe she had an ear infection but thought it was weird that it was hurting her neck. She wasn't herself, real cranky, didn't eat very good, oh wait, that's normal actually. Anyway, she didn't show any definite symptoms of anything. In the mean time I am still battling this cold thing. Well, what I thought was a cold. By Friday, Madalyn was still complaining of her weird neck thing and the left side of my head felt like it was bulging and when I bent over I thought my eye might pop out of my head. Since it was Friday afternoon by the time I decided we better head in, our MD was booked and the kind receptionist advised me to seek an insta-care facility.

I was actually at my mom's house when I decided to go in. I wasn't sure about Mad though. My mom thought I should take her in. After all, I was going anyway and she would watch Mai for me. I still wasn't sure but it turns our mama really does know best, or Grand-mama knows best. Turns our Madalyn has an infection in her lymph node chain. Generally, there is a reason for this. The PA couldn't determine why she was so swollen with no other obvious symptom. Her throat was a little red and she had (be prepared, this is a little gross) calcified ear wax in both ears about the size of a pea, that they kindly flushed out. He thought that maybe the wax wasn't allowing everything to drain correctly but wasn't certain. He prescribed her a couple meds and she was good to go.

I have to say that I love to take Madalyn to the Dr. She is so cute and ultra helpful. She sits so still and manages to crack a joke or two during the exam. This time the PA's name was Jason which is also my brother's name. When he came in he introduces himself. Madalyn, in her funny voice, says: "Jason, that's funny. You're not Camree's daddy." She is just so easy going and I am so grateful for her ultra relaxed personality. When they had to flush out her ears the two assistants were very prepared to make a huge mess. They come in with all sorts of absorbent pads to collect the water just in case Madalyn didn't like the flushing. She sat perfectly still! They only needed on paper thing and I am not sure it even got wet. When they squirted the first syringe in her ear she said: "Whoa Mom, that feels good!" She had no problem sitting still for it, in fact, I think she was a little disappointed it was over.

Then it was my turn, I had a sinus infection. A pretty bad one according the Jason (wink, wink, like we're best friends). He gave me the Rx and asked why I hadn't been seen, the reason is because I thought I would just get over it, and because my teeth never hurt. After working in the dental office for all those years and seeing so many patients come in thinking they had a tooth problem only to find out it was from the pressure in their sinuses. I thought sore teeth was a tell-tell sign of a sinus infection. I'll know better next time!

That bring us to this week. Just when our many bottles of anti-biotics are finding their way to the garbage can.....here we go again. Maile has croup! I have only heard of croup but have never had to deal with it. I don't like it!! She is so sick. She has had a pretty high fever and hasn't felt good throughout the day, when night comes that's when the beast comes out. She has the hoarsest cough, and can hardly talk. If she gets upset at all she can't breathe, it's by far the worst thing yet. I am sure we will make it through yet another time, I am just not looking forward to it.

Big, Strong,Ultra hot, Darin has been battling a cold for since I started mine. He has just kept going and living on Sudafed. I think his over worked immune system has finally succumb. He isn't sounding very good and I can tell in his face that it is coming on. It's hard to notice all the great help he is until he is sick. I shouldn't say hard to notice but I fail to notice all of his help. I am so grateful for him and think he is GREAT!I think this is going to be a lazy weekend for us, and maybe that is just what we all need!

Take the Quiz and Share Your Results!

I must say, Alice is my fave! I am so jealous of her fab wardrobe, and her attention to every detail when it comes to planninga party!

So my day as a skinny mini is over! I should have really lived it up! This morning when I headed back to the scale it wasn't near as exciting as yesterday but not a complete disappointment. So I am on a quest to lose the 8 lbs. I have gained. If there is anyone who wants to join my quest you are more than welcome to join me.

***notice I am not disclosing my real Larger weight! Don't even ask!!

I only wish I had taken a picture

I have really been feeling, what's the word??...disgusted with myself lately. I have been feeling a little thick and my clothes are looking a little full. I have been making all sorts of yummy Fall pumpkin treats and haven't been running in a few weeks because I have been a bit congested. With all factors combined I am sure that I have packed a few on. So I have resolved to change. This morning was the day to get back on to whatever it is that "works", no soda, treats, carbs.....anything that tastes good. So to begin I step on the scale. Drum roll, please! It reads..... 126.6. Diet? Who needs and diet at this weight? Not me!! Could it be that there is some glitch in the scale??? Well, I re-weighed myself and again:126.6. Tomorrow it may read differently but for today I weigh 126.6, and remember the scale doesn't lie!! :)

Btw, I am pretty sure that I haven't weighed 126 since....the 3rd grade, make that 2nd. 3rd was the year of "snack cafe" (that's for you Ju). I am felling pretty good about it, and for all of you skinny bitty's that can't see the excitement here because you are disgusted at the thought of any number over 120, go have a donut!!

Chilly out

My girls have been so excited about the first snow fall. Both of them have been going in and out several times a day. Madalyn woke up from her nap yesterday, slipped on Mai's boots and headed out to play. Funny thing is, is I didn't even know she had woken up. What tipped off me was the back door left wide open. Needless to say, this didn't last long.

Don't you just love thoe underwear? I can't keep clothes on this girl, she is constantly stripping down. I guess I should just be glad that at least she has added skibbies, a few weeks ago even that was a battle. I don't get why she would want to be naked....especially outside! Whatever, she's 2 and I know this too will pass. :)

Evidence

One morning I woke up and this is what I found in the pantry, somebody's boots and a nearly empty bag of mallows. I wonder who it was?

My little Chocolate lover!

I had an avocado on the counter when Madalyn saw it she asked curiously, "is that a chocolate potato?" Only in a perfect world my little chocolate lover.

Bits and Pieces

I always have lots of things to post about that have to do with what I have pictures of, not this time. I have lost of just random things cruising in my head today so I thought I would share.

First, I am so grateful for a healthy body. I rarely get sick but was tagged with a serious head cold the last few day or two. It is horrible to be sick. I am not a great patient either. Poor Darin had to put up with me, he is so sweet. I seriously thought I head might explode for only 12 hours yesterday. Today I am a ton better, I only have raw nose, scratchy voice and a sinkful of dishes.:)

Second, today is my sisters birthday. I can't remember if she is 18 months younger than me or 2 1/2 year younger than me. So she is either 26 or 27, either way I hope she is having a great day. I think this may be the first year since her nuptials that she has had her husband home on her big day. We can thank the hunt for that...I guess. So we went to Paradise Bakery for her birthday lunch (yummers) which was fun. My niece stayed home from school and watched the kids. I am not sure how or why that happened then again I didn't ask too many questions either. It was fun to go with no kids.

Nobody puts Baby in the corner

One thing I can't stand is the invasion of my bubble. I have this thing when people stand to close to me in line----I HATE IT! This girl (so she was my age but I hate to call her a woman) was behind me at Paradise was riding my tail. I was getting so annoyed. So as I was paying for my meal she, no joke, was stacking her stuff nearly on top of mine and nudged me with her arm to get out of her way. I hadn't even given the cashier my debit card. There were 2 other cashiers available so I kindly (or maybe annoyingly) told her that the next cashier was available. She kinda gave me a crusty,then moved on. Moral of the story: There is this scene in Dirty Dancing (a movie we should all pattern our lives after) where Patrick Swazi is teaching Baby to dance. Baby keeps getting in his bubble. He stops and gives her strict instructions on what is her space and what is his. If you can't recall this scene, give me a call I own the movie. Stay in your own space.


The last thing on my brain is, what do you do with a spoon that gets chewed by the garbage disposal? This is the issue, if I throw it out my set is incomplete, and if I keep it every time it gets used I will be annoyed and throw it in the sink to be washed again, be used then back in the sink it goes. Maybe the best solution is to keep it for an unwanted guest. "Oops, I'm sorry. You always seem to get that spoon, take the hint"!!! JK, really what should I do?

We just got a letter....

Grandpa Clark sent the girls letters, you would have thought it was Christmas. They came running in the house dancing and singing the Blue's Clue's song. As you can see it was a big hit.

We all have a little white trash in us, don't be ashamed.

One night this summer we headed over to the District to do some shopping and had to stop at the fountain before heading home. As you can see we are total white trash and I must say I was a little embarrassed when Darin ran into someone he knew as our kids were splashing around in the water and even mooching coins from the another little boy near the fountain.

Take note of the sign in the back: "for your safety please do not play on or in the fountain".....ooops!

Darin looks like he hates me for taking this picture. He almost looks like he is talking through his teeth....sorry! Mai and Mad on the other hand....

Headin' to the Mountain

We only made it up the canyon twice this summer and this is the only picture we got before the battery died in my camera. Darin and Maile did some serious hiking to get it and I think it is pretty stinkin' cute for a few reasons, one...well just look at them and, two, Darin did Mai's pigtails that day. What a good daddy! :)

Maile is up for all of Darin's adventures these days. She has been pretty much stuck on my hip since April of 2004 (her birth) but this summer she has really taken a liking to her daddy. She is a sweet girl and is really getting her daddy wrapped nice and tight around her finger. Love them both!

Prima Ballerina

Maile started ballet last week. We, or I decided to try out the community classes before really taking the plunge at a regular studio. I was a little disappointed because there were twice the girls in class as indicated in the flyer and because it is a 3-5 year old class and some of the girls couldn't even talk. I guess it worked for the Chinese....

Maile was loving every minute of it. She was really in her element. If you know Maile you know that most of her life is spent in a fairytale being graceful in every way. When I have asked her to do certain things she has told me that "Royals don't do that". What can I say everyday is a fairytale at the Clark's, I'm playing Cinderella.

Mai saw me aiming the camera so she so kindly held the pose for me.

Daddy's idea of a good time.

A few weeks ago I heard Darin coaching the girls in the other room. I am no totally sure how I feel about this stunt nontheless, for blogs sake I snapped a picture.

Missing Pumpkin Mystery

A few weeks ago we went to my sisters stake garden. My big strong nephew was with Maile and I and he grabbed us a few pumpkins. We have kept them in our garage so they don't rot and because we wouldn't want to look anxious. About a week ago we noticed the little one was gone. It had become quite a mystery. Darin and I were quite puzzled and couldn't figure out who would take it (as a joke) or where it could be. Don't worry we solved the mystery.

Yesterday Darin walked the girls to the park. On the way back he noticed our little pumpkin in some one's yard. It was in an unkempt yard, most likely the people who live there don't even know they had our pumpkin. Darin retrieves the 'kin then begins inquiring how it had gotten there. Madalyn, in confident pride says, I rolled it down the hill. Come to find out. She carried it our of the garage, set it on the sidewalk, and gave it a little push. Then, she proceeded to watch it go.

Take a minute to picture this, it makes this story more entertaining. If I know her, it is likely to picture her with very little clothing on, most likely only underwear, long blond hair hanging in her eyes. Because her mom never fixed it for her? No, because she insists on twisting the pony out while sucking her thumb. Now picture her huffin' this big pumpkin (relative to her size) down the driveway, losing her balance every third step but always, who knows how, stays on her feet. Then setting it down, most certainly with sheer gratification in her eye, she gives it a little nudge. You can bet she watched it until it stopped rolling then, turned and walked away while moving her hair our of her face just enough to get her little thumb in her mouth.

We love our Maddo and all of the mischeif!

This is our little punkin lover before she knew what a punkin was!

Itsy, bitsy spider

A few weeks ago a neighbor found a very large spider in their garage, the next day another had one on his front porch. I know tarantulas are native to UT but I didn't realize they were like in my neighborhood. I got all ultra paranoid and bombed my house and sprayed all around the outside as well. I thought I was safe and out of the woods since I hadn't heard any new tarantula encounters since.....until today. My other neighbor found one on her porch and I was visiting a friend a few streets over and her neighbors found 3 in their back yard. I think I am being closed in on. When I originally hear the news a few weeks ago I couldn't sleep for like 3 nights for fear that 8 hairy legs might find their way upon my face as I lay sleeping. Well.....here we go again. I can't sleep for fear one big hairy spider is lurking in my room waiting for the opportunity to crawl all over me! EWW!!! I am so grossed out. When I expressed fear about a spider in my house one friendly neighbor assured me that they don't bite and that they just eat bugs so I would be safe to just let it roam the house. I was like like are you for real??? That would be so great......until it had babies.

I was going to put a picture of a tarantula on this post, but just looking at the pictures gave me the heebies!

Under the Sea

We live in an absolute fantasy. Maile eat, drinks, sleeps or dreams in princess. She is a bit over the top most of the time which is quite entertaining. Last week she woke up in the best mood! She had cleaned her room and made both her and Mad's beds. She was fluttering and round and humming and SMILING! Not the norm for her in the morning. She sits down by me and says " Mom, I had the best dream last night!" I said, "what was it?" She looks at me all dreamy eyed and says " I can't tell you because a dream is a wish your heart makes when your fast asleep". Thank you, Cinderella!

This morning she came and got in bed with me. She was talking about a dream she had that was under the sea. She was a mermaid, of course, and there were sharks that were mean and then found a friend, then were nice. There was a king......the whole bit. I interrupted her and told her I didn't understand how mermaids could sing underwater because the water would get in their mouths. She thought for a long time, then responded: "Let's Google it."

Reach up.....

...and beat the TAR out of that ball!! That is what came to my mind this morning while palying volleyball. Funny how the strangest of things for so long ago come barrelling through your mind as if it were jusy yesterday!

If you get this, you get it and if you don't, you don't

Sleepless in Herriman

So here I am again exercising my insomnia. I have been laying in bed thinking about all sorts of random things when my latest excursion to Lagoon enters my brain. I was beginning to get the giggles so rather than giggle Darin from his slumber I am going to giggle in front of the computer as I try to paint a few comical pictures from my day at Lagoon.

First of all I must tell you that I have only been to Lagoon twice prior to my latest experience, neither of which amounted to the extreme fun I had this time. The first time I think I was like 5, actually I am pretty sure I was 5. I know this because I remember wearing my new school shoes, which were pink Keds ( I was that cool even in 1985), and riding the bumper cars with my first love, Travis Warr. Many of you may know him, for the record we were pre-destined to be play yard crushes since our older siblings called him Jane-Lover, (and still do according to his mom, what can I say? some of us are harder to get over than others) and me, Travis-Lover for as far back as I can remember. Nonetheless, he held the door for me at one point of another that day and I have never forgotten this. My first experience of chivalry, I guess. That all changed later chivalry was out that door and he turned into a boy. I recall a serious shiner compliments of him and a treadmill experience that I won't go into.

Moving right along, the second was with my roommates, honestly I don't think it was that great.

This time I was invited to go with some wild and unruly girls from my ward with no kids! That's right, no kids. I must say that I felt super guilty about going without my family but that only lasted until we got on our way. I had so much fun getting to know them.

Before we entered the gate I am pretty sure we all noticed an odd pair buying tickets. From behind we all assumed that she was his mom, but from the front we realized that Rasputia and Norbit had made their way to UT. Throughout the day we kept catching glimpses of them. My personal favorite encounter was on the "Blast-off" when Norbit seemed to be lost. Nope,not lost, just waiting for his damsel, who was actually tall enough to get on the ride. Then there was the lady with the haircut. I thought I was being a good friend when I suggested that one of our party should maybe think about cutting her hair like our fellow citizen. The only response I got was a good laugh, or cackle, if you will. Tammy, I will forever remember the "cackle" and even more remember how it escalated every time you caght a glimpse of your next haricut. For some reason while on the rides I was getting serious dry mouth, this wasn't true for all who participated, someone had the opposite effect. I am just glad that I wasn't sitting behind her. :) Then in Subway, "Uh, I think that's enough pickles.". Oh and that old rickety roller-coaster that was making that loud rubbing noise that sounded like we might fall off the track. I'm no expert but maybe that one should be retired.

I also learned some valuable lessons, like don't call the 18 yr old out for flirting with your married friend--he might give you whiplash, and so will the Jet-Star. And if you ride the bumper cars, don't use red #8, unless you aren't into driving and more sitting. You are probably guaranteed no whiplash that way.

I seriously don't think I have laughed that hard forever. The muscles in my face were tired and my stomach muscles were sore. Maybe the sore stomach was from the mouse ride that tried to knock the wind out of me.....twice.

All of the rest of the dare devils had this great idea to put their hands in the air on some of the rides. The scariest ride actually. I was too chicken, though. I was just trying not wet myself...or swear, actually. Good times! I can't wait for our next adventure.

Pre-School

The girls outside of Morning Light Pre-School

Maile and Mrs. Brooksby

Maile started pre-school at the beginning of the month. It has been fabulous! She loves it and so do I. She has really needed something to occupy her time. She looks forward to it everyday, too bad it is only Tues, and Thurs. I guess she'll have something to look forward to Kindergarten for! She loves her teacher, although she is a little confused of what to call her since she is in our ward and is my friend. We went out with her teachers family the other night(yes I am a brown noser--I want my kids to succeed! ) and Maile was sitting pretty close to Tammy and looked at her with sheer adoration. I am sure she is thinking how does she do the BOOM-BOOM BOOM part of Alice the Camel so well!

Show and tell is everyday. Since they are learning the colors the kids are to bring something in that color. Today was orange, she took this little piece of play cheese that is cracked and chewed. I tried my hardest to talk her out of it with no avail. On red day she took a stylus from a magna doodle, that was broken as well. I honestly look forward to what random thing she chooses, as you can see it is quite entertaining. BTW, Tammy don't feel bad for her, not all of her toys are broken!

Happy Maile #1

Our first stop on the state of Washington was actually The Mercantile. My friends dad own's it so we thought we'd stop by and check it out! My favorite thing was the donkey! Apparently it's not Maile's. :) This was followed by a serious melt down, then a seriously much needed lengthy nap.

Long time, no blog.

So it has been quite a while since I have posted on this here blog. I have been super busy, the big question is with what??? I have made a list of all of the posts I want to make, which is getting a little lengthy. I am thinking I might need to scratch a few off. Here goes:

So about a month ago I went to my class reunion in WA. It was so darn fun. I was gone for 9 days from home. I think Darin was ready to have his family back and I was ready to be back. My mom came with me, or did I go with her since she drove. We stopped at my sisters house for a night and kidnapped one of my nieces to be my nanny for the weekend. Kelsey was a great help and I am so glad she came with us. My girls are still asking about their "nanny", as if they don't know who she is. She made a great re-impression on them. From there we went to WA.

My mom had arranged to have a new headstone placed for my dad. I was glad that I was able to be there to see the finished product. I can't say I really like going to the cemetery. It is such a weird thing for me. I know my dad isn't there but when we leave it is like I am leaving something behind. I hate the feeling and have to remind myself that I am not leaving him but I still have a hard time convincing myself, I guess. He's buried next to my grandparents, and then there is a place for my mom as well. The new headstone is a double so it has my mom's name on it, that was weird. I almost think my mom would have laid down next to it--you know try it on for size-- if the sprinklers hadn't' turned on in the middle of our visit. Who waters at a cemetery in the middle of the day anyway? From there we went to my aunts house. First things first I had her fix my hair! Thank you, Sally! Then we ate and shopped and shopped a little more. Sal, had this great idea that I should drive her super cute yellow Mercedes to my reunion. I would have to clear it with my uncle first though. Which ended up not being a big deal, so there I was rollin' up in my NEW CONVERTIBLE MERCEDES! It was fun, every time I think about it I have to smile! My mom about had a heart attack though. She was all worried that I was going to wreck it or something. I seriously called my mom when I got there so she didn't have to worry about it (the car, not me). Oh, one more thing about the car. As I was pulling out of the driveway, Sally and Ron came out on the doorstep and waved goodbye. Initially I thought they were waving goodbye to me. Now, when I think about this I realize they were waving bye to their car! :)

At my reunion I was able to catch up with so many old friends. The phrase "somethings will never change" kept recurring in my mind. My BFF from HS, is still doing all she can for a good laugh--I think she got it....and she also got the centerfold in our yearbook, or whatever you call it. Eddy O. is still a total pervert.....especially when he's drunk. Tiffani's shorts are still to damn short!!!...even for a bar, can someone tell me where her underwear are? I was a little annoyed that so many people got completely plastered. I know some things will never change, but come on.

The next day we had a water day at the reservoir. I skipped out early with plans to come back with no kids but things didn't work out. I hardly got to talk to some of my good friends and I am a little disappointed. Things just didn't happen like I wished they would have.

Then we headed back to OR, to stay at my sisters again. When we left WA I was feeling a little sick. I thought I was just worn out from all of the partying but nope I had strep throat. I was glad to get the antibiotic shot at the little clinic in their little town. Funny thing is that I educated the Dr. on this great treatment. Who's the dr here??? I felt better in no time.

The girls had a great time at Jen's. They loved playing with Maezie and the rest of the kids. I loved it as well. Talk about a vacay. There were 4 babysitters begging me to let them take care of my kids. Maile did every one's make-up over and over and over again with the play make up. The girls curled my girls hair, over and over and over again. I am a little baffled why they will let them curl their hair and I as much as mention hair and my kids are nowhere to be found. Between the beauty shop, trampoline and swimming pool I hardly saw my kids. Good fun for all.

On the way home Mad started showing signs of strep. As soon as we got home I took her in, I am so grateful for antibiotics! Honestly, how horrible would life be without them!

All in all, it was a great trip. We had a blast. I only wish we could go back soon! Seeing how I have only been back 3 times in the last 10 years I don't see that happening. Funny thing is, that the country stays the same. Not a lot has changed-except the color of my old house, that color should be illegal for the exterior of a house! But really, I miss the slower pace and the simplicity that is there. It is so pretty, and so flat!! I couldn't believe how far you could see. It seemed like the crops went on and on forever. I wish I had taken a picture of it. The other thing is how big all of the yards are there.

These are some random pictures from our trip:

Maezie, Maile and Madalyn enjoying a donut on the front porch.

Madalyn the pageant baby after having her hair curled by my nieces.

Kelsey, the nanny, posing by her new ride. My mom was letting her drive all over. Thank goodness there wasn't anyone at the cemetery! She didn't hit anything or run over anything, no harm done. She was cute because she kept petitioning her services every time we got in the car. Thanks, but no thanks!

Dad's new headstone. They leave the military one and just put the new one on top. I love the new one, it is so much prettier in real life.

Mad with Nancy's cat. No biting!

Best Job in the World!

I have been on the phone with customer service a lot today. Alisha, the over the top, super friendly but incredilby annoying customer service chick, asks me if I had a good day at work...in her incredibly fake "friendly" voice. I reply saying I am still at work. She says (in her voice) "Oh, you're a stay at home mom?" When I confirmed, she responds "That's the hardest job in the world!"

OK, that is the lamest line "in the world." I hate so bad when peolple say this to me. I wanna be like so did you hear that on Oprah or something? And do I look like I need a pep talk? Another thing is that most people that use this line are generally people that don't have kids or are the kind of people who say they are never going to have kids. I am sure this chick thought she was giving me a compliment but I think she should come up with her own line and quit stealing Op's because when Op used it the first time it was already lame.




AHHHH, I feel better!

Rollin' back prices

This is really lame....but blog worthy. Yesterday I had to get gas so I headed to the local Chev to fill up. I was pleasantly surprised to see the gas had dropped a few more pennies down to $3.89. I was nearly elated when it only cost me $58 to fill up rather than $64. Thank you Chev, oh and don't worry your made your few bucks back, 'cause we went in to celebrate...big gulp style!!

Mission Completion

So as you know I took matters in to my own hands and, well, have paid the price. But last night I was awakened with an epiphany reguarding my hair. Let me tell you, I fixed it! It is better than planned as well. I'm thinking next time I have my hair done I'm gonna tell her to cut the back and the tell her to pass the shears my way so I can finish 'er off! I am so seriously releived right not. There is nothing worse than bad hair, well.....

I am my mother's daughter.

Growing up I can vividly remember my mom cutting on her own hair, I always thought, and probably vocalized ,that I thought she was crazy for doing so. Well, I got my hair cut last week and its "just not right" too long here, a little too thick there...so I started hacking at it. So now my dilemma is do I call someone completely different to fix it or do I call my stylist and tell her what I did? I am a little embarrassed but at the same time don't really care. The real issue here is that I am incredibly picky and feel incredibly sorry for whoever has to cut my hair-- I am sure this comes from my mom, the picky part not the sorry part. I just have really high expectations for my "pelo". I also don't understand why when I am sitting in the chair and I am telling them that it isn't quite right they try to talk me out of it when I know darn well that it is not right. I guess I did the only thing I could do about it, and that was to take matters into my own hands.

Recently, a friend had her hair done. In conversation she told the stylist that she dyes her own hair. Rather than tell my friend in a kind, tactful manner that she thinks she would be better off have her hair dyed professionally she proceeds to tell her that when she leaves her house with her hair the way it is, she is sending the message to people that she doesn't care about herself. Hmmmm, I wonder what she would say to me?

Back to the bottom line, what should I do???

Just Because

The "Grammy's"

Darin's parents came to stay last week and now I am having to detox the girls in more way than one. The girls were in absolute HEAVEN for the last 5 days and are now coming off of the high. Let me explain: The girls have been SPOILED ROTTEN since they arrived. Grandpa (so Grandma says) bought all sorts of treats to "share". I am not sure if Maile ate anything this weekend without a side of chocolate. At dinner one night, Darin was coaxing Maile to eat. To back Darin up, his mom also encouraged her to eat her dinner and informed her that if she didn't Grandpa would take all of the treats and put them in the car. Grandpa piped in just to let Maile know that he didn't care one way or the other if she ate her dinner but that she was entitled to eat any and every treat that he brought. Like I said, she was in HEAVEN!

Darin's mom would sit on the couch and read books to the girls, do puzzles, color pictures, sing and teach them new songs......I think in one day they walked Mai to the park 3 times.....HEAVEN. Not to mention no bedtime!

In all honesty, I was also in HEAVEN in a lot if ways. Basically, I had a nanny for 5 days. I was able to do my VT, get my hair done, run to Wal-Mart, take a shower and use the potty multiple times without any kids! Not to mention, I had help with my cleaning and cooking! I hope I said thank you enough?!!

So, why the Grammy's??? A few weeks ago Mad started calling my mom Grammy. I am not really into grandparents making up nicknames for themselves--dumb--but since Mad came up with this all on her own it works. So anyway, Mad calls my mom Grammy, did I mention how cute it sounds? It sounds so CUTE! K, my mom is Grammy, naturally Grandma and Grandpa are 'The Grammys" The first time she said it I was thinkin' great connection 2 year old, and how cute it was. Since they have left she has asked about The Grammys' bed, The Grammys' M&M's...a little more HEAVEN left behind, The Grammys' cat (that she bit the last time). Anyway, it's cute and I love it and I secretly hope it sticks!

So it was a super fun weekend and I am so happy they came!

Where'd ya go?

This afternoon we had some visitors. A little while before they left I heard the TV turn on in my room and figured it was Mad catchin' a little Max and Ruby, which is very normal for her especially before her nap. Our friends left and I went to check on Mad and lay her down. Much to my surprise she wasn't anywhere near the TV. I was a little frantic thinking that maybe she had gone outside or......I was running around the house looking everywhere it seemed logical that she might be when finally I checked her room. My sweet Pickle had put herself to bed.

Trafalga

My sister and her family had planned on going to Lagoon after our reunion since Davis couldn't go the trade off was TRAFALGA. Maile and I tagged along and had a fabulous time. Davis brought one of his "other" cousins on his dad's side to keep him feeling manly!!

Maile had a great time and it was fun to watch her "sweep" the ball in the hole. She was cute to watch and a little heart breaking because she's growing up too fast. Deana and I would get a good laugh when we would ask Mai how many times she hit the ball before it would go in. She would give it some thought for a second and then a random number that wasn't too damaging to her overall score. She was so cute! It was so fun us to go together with no little sister!

After golf we hit the arcade. Maile was into the driving games which we were lucky enough to find one she could reach the pedals on. She chose the Hummer to drive. I picture her more in a little pink car so I was a little surprised at her choice. She also tried the dancing game and skeet ball. With her tickets she "bought" both of a pair of teeth!

We had a great time and were glad we could spend the day with some of our favorite people!!

Cheese!

Check out that form!

Takin' a breather with Aunt Deana.

Davis and Derek

Headin' down the highway in my Hummer!

AHHHHHHH!!!