BurningFam

Someone is 7!!

2010-04-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

H A P P Y B I R T H D A Y T R E Y !!!

I don't think I can put into words the love I have for this one. Being the only boy he puts up with a lot of girl talk, girl shows, songs...yet he tends to stay all boy! I love to watch him when he isn't looking because I swear he thinks he is surrounded by NBA players. He will stay out front on the driveway and play basketball all day. He has made himself a "court" with sidewalk chalk. He plays these basketball games in his head yet says them out loud for all to hear. It is very entertaining. This year he asked for a Kobe jersey for his birthday. I think slowly we are getting a Laker fan!

He is so smart. He has always been a little ahead mathematically, no thanks to me. This year he has stepped it up in every other area as well. He seems to be well liked at school and has some good friends. He comes home everyday to report on the fun he has had a school and how many points he scored in the basketball games during recess and lunch! (is there a common theme?)

Trey is a sweet guy. He will play hard with the best of them and still come and sit on my lap and just snuggle with me. I love him so much. I feel blessed to have been given such a good looking, kind and talented young boy to raise! Happy Birthday T!

My Four...

2010-04-23T12:38:00.001-07:00

I often think there has to be something great to blog about in order to blog but today I just fee like blogging about my kids. They are something that isn't only great but perfect in my life. They make my days happy and my night peaceful. I never thought I would be so happy.

Kenzie, this girl is just the best. With all that she does it is done to the best possible. This is in school, sports, church or even babysitting. She has been asked to babysit my brothers kids a few times now and every time she comes home telling me of something fun that they did. She is truly a great kid.

This year at school they were being tested for the mile run. All year long she would tell me that she came in first for her class and second for all the 5th grade. Being beat out by only 4 seconds by a boy (Tyler Glassman). She was on the school volleyball team and did great and has always been on the Honor Roll and O Club for school. She makes me a proud mom.

Lexie, this is a girl that makes you a better person every time you are with her. She is kind, sweet and loves to help. She goes out of her way to make someone else happy, even if she doesn't really want to. She is not only pretty outside but inside. I tell her all the time that she is here, on earth, not to learn for herself but to teach others. She is also a little competitor however her gentle nature makes it funny to watch her try to be aggressive on the court.Ü She ran the 200m and a relay race with her school for Jr. Olympics this year and did great. She is also a kid that has always gotten on O club and Honor Roll. This year she added Principals list to her resume!! I love this girl.

Oh, my Jace! She is the baby of the family. She really has no reason to have a bad day. She is everyones favorite. She is going to pre school 5 days a week and loves both the classes she goes to. She is a smart little cookie. She loves to read books, color, do puzzles and is looking forward to playing soccer this year. Trey has made it his job to start teaching her how to shoot basketballs and she thinks that is pretty cool. She is such a joy to have around. We love her little funny sayings and how cute her personality is.

Trey....Trey....Trey....He is all boy in a world of girls. He is proof that boys are just born different than girls. He loves to play. He loves to be dirty. He loves to tease, but not be teased! He is all boy. This kid is going to make a really good husband one day. Being raised with all girls and a dad that is either at work or busy with church callings he has made his own little world to get away from it all. This is the world of sports. He gets home from school and does all his homework for the week so he can go outside to play basketball. We have moved his portable hoop to the driveway and he loves it. When he can't play outside he has a hoop set up in the garage so he can play in there. And when that isn't available...he goes to the covered patio out back to play the arcade hoops game. He is always doing something. I love this kid. He just started playing basketball for the city league and is doing really well. He scored 12 points last game and he told me his goal was to get 20. (ball hog?....maybe)

4 Leaf Clover

2010-03-17T18:32:00.000-07:00

I always knew Trey had luck on his side but he was playing out in our backyard today (St. Patrick's Day) and what does he find???? A 4 Leaf Clover!! I tell you what. He is a funny kid and I am gonna keep him close.

Brace Face

2010-03-17T11:55:00.000-07:00

Kenzie finally got all her teeth in so she could get braces. She has been wanting them for a long time but the ortho was waiting for all her teeth to come and go. She is looking very happy and smiling a lot these last few days.

And yes, I saw Lex in the back ground, along with the messy house. What's a mom to do?

Things of Trey

2010-03-15T12:08:00.000-07:00

Trey also started baseball again. He thinks it is pretty cool that his hat not only stands for Tampa Bay but they are His initials. Here are a few action shots from his first game. He did so good. He was 2 for 2 in hitting and he got a player out at home, first, and caught a pop fly! I love watching him in action!

Hitting!

On first!

Trey got to perform in a Salute to America program at school. It was actually really cute. All of the first graders learned 5 of 6 songs and sang them along with a little program. Below are a few of his friends after the program.

Trey, Emma Hibbits and Trevor Bystrom

Trey and friends

Basketball Beauties

2010-02-17T17:34:00.000-08:00

I just love that my kids are active and athletic. It has been a long season of all sorts of emotions but so much fun. Both Kenzie and Lexie have been in basketball for the parks and rec league. I guess since Kenzie is oldest I will start with her. I have the worlds worst camera so sorry about the pictures. I am hoping to get a good one for my birthday/mothers day! We shall see!!!

Here is the team! Well, we are missing Caitlin...a great girl that I loved to watch. Good Job Lady Lakers!

Lady Lakers: Kenzie has had the best girls on her team. They all have something to bring to the table. They were the under dogs most of the time but they all played with heart every game. Kenz was blessed to be coached by Steve Murphy who is not only a great player but is a wonderful teacher. I take my hat off to him. He did amazing things with the players he had to work with! Kenzie did great. Scoring almost every game. When the scoring wasn't there she became a defensive master. She picks up the game so easily and I hope she will continue playing because I LOVE to watch her in action!

Here is a little team huddle. I think we only had our whole team there 3 times the whole season, that meant lots of playing time for Kenz!

This is Kenz and Nicole Murphy, I tell you what. These girls could prove to be a force to recon with. Both very coachable and willing to give 100% at each game. I loved having them together this year.

Crushers: I am going on record that I HATE this name. Why the team choose this is still a mystery to me. However, they lived up to their name. Undefeated to this point! Lexie has one of the most patient coaches in the world. Mark did a great job keeping them going. Lexie is such a sweet girl that bringing out the aggressive side in her was rare but it did come out....I think once. Anyone who knows me...this did not come from me. But she did great and I looks forward to seeing what she chooses to do next.
Here is the team. Coach Mark and his daughter Jennilynn did an amazing job with these girls. They went 9-0 for the season and playoff are this week!

Here is one of their MANY pep talks before the game. He was a coach that never raised his voice not once. Really an amazing guy!

Lex, #4, showing her defensive moves! I think she was the only one that didn't travel or "hug" while on defense. She is a perfectionist and it showed here on the court!

Lex, dribbling off the court before the game. She was the point guard and did a great job.

One Tough Princess

2010-01-18T12:58:00.000-08:00

When this little girl was born I fell in love with her right away. Not that I didn't love all my kids from the moment they were born but this little girl brought me a sense of peace that I needed so desperately. Jacie is such a happy little girl. She is funny as can be. She is sassy, wild, crazy, sweet and she loves life. She comes up with some strange ideas of what she wants in life. Like for her birthday she told me she wanted a pink pig cake with princesses on it.? I talked her into having a rainbow cake with princesses on it. She loves to snuggle with me. She calls me her best friend everyday. She loved that she is the youngest in the family. It makes her day to ride her princess bike with her daddy and dance with her sisters. She loves to watch her sisters and brother play sports and is looking VERY forward to playing soccer this year with her dad being her coach. She has big plans to soc er lots of "goalies". She loves being a "Sun Beep" she tells me all about how fun her teachers are. She loves going to pre-school and is a very smart girl. Happy Birthday Jace! We love you!!

Visit From Grandma and Grandpa B!

2009-11-20T20:20:00.000-08:00

The kids and Grandma and Pa Burningham at Zuma! Lex taking a walk

Kenz and Lex teaching them how to Mario Cart! This was VERY funny!

Singing (or leading) Popcorn Popping with Jacie at Kenzie's soccer game.

Brett's cute parents. ♥

Brett's parents came down for a visit. While Kenzie and Jacie were just getting over a horrible flu they still braved it all and stayed in the house with us. It isn't very often this year that Kenz hasn't played the whole game of soccer, her team never had a whole team so she played a lot this year. After being sick she played goalie, which I hate, and sat one quarter. So Grandma and Grandpa didn't see her in action quite as much as she usually is but she and they were troopers. It is always fun to see what the grandparents will do to make a grandchild happy. I can't wait to have the patients of being a grandparent and feel a little less of the stress of raising incredible kids. I love being a mom, don't get me wrong. But I look at the relationships the grandparents have with my kids and it makes me happy. Because the kids were sick we stayed pretty close to home but we did get to the beach and it was quiet and peaceful. Thanks mom and dad for coming and hanging with us. We miss you!

Halloween

2009-11-11T08:02:00.000-08:00

Trey and the snake!
Jacie "enjoying" the carving.

The cousins going out Trick or Treating!

The kids at the Halloween Store. Having the fun their mom won't let them have.

Brett enjoys Halloween more than I would like! He is a good sport!

I am not a fan of this "holiday" but I put on a happy face and try not to ruin it for the rest of the world that enjoys it. I do find it funny how some people are so into it. I applaud those that make it fun for!

Broken Bones

2009-11-11T07:44:00.001-08:00

Unfortunately this was the week of the Primary Program. I am the Primary Chorister (stop laughing). It was painful but worth it. They did great!Not one game was missed. I love watching my kids play.

Jacie taking care of mommy before cast.

Day of the break! It got so much more pretty but I didn't get another shot of it. :(

While playing basketball I came down on someone foot, might have been my own seeing that no one has fessed up to who it was I landed on! I have sprained before but this time I broke my ankle. This has been a LONG boring and emotional time. I cry seeing normal people running down the street. I am mad when it takes me 5 minutes to climb the stairs, and with all the goodies that came my way I think I gained 10 pounds! But with all the sadness that has come from this, I have found that I have an a amazing support systems. I had friends bring my family dinner for a week. All of which was delish! My sister and mom were the go to girls for driving my kids around and helping with the shopping. My husband good care of me and the kids too. I have never felt more loved and humbled for the foot I take for granted. So to all the people who helped me, brought me treats or even just thought of me THANK YOU! Love to you all.

BYU Football

2009-11-11T07:39:00.000-08:00

Brett is trying to keep his "Utah Love" alive by taking advantage of every game that come close to us. He can always count on Trey and Lex to be willing to take an adventure with him. This was in San Diego. They had lots of fun.

11 Years (tomorrow but we will be a Disneyland)

2009-09-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

What do you say about the child that first made you a mom? Every first in the last 11 years happened with her first. I can only hope that the example that she sets is one her siblings follow after. Kenzie is an amazing girl. She is good at almost everything she does. She is talented in music, sports, school and being a friend. She is the biggest helper and one of the things that she started doing this last year is seeing a need and taking care of it. For instance, she will see me in the kitchen cooking dinner, she will come up and set the table, no questions. She is starting to babysit here and there and I love that. We have come home to kids asleep and the dishes done many times. She is always ready to shop. She is obedient, kind and funny as can be. She loves to make up dances, put on fashion shows, and hang out with friends. I love her so much. Happy Birthday Kenz!!

What Do You Remember?

2009-08-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

Today my dad has been gone for 4 years today I am trying to not be sad. I decided to ask my kids what they remembered about "Papa". Now Jacie wasn't born, Trey was 2, Lexie was 5 and Kenzie was 7. So it is funny and interesting what they remember.

Jacie: I don't know, him belongs to Grammy right mommy?

Trey: He use to read the newspaper with me, and steal all my red fruit snacks.

Lexie: He liked all his food burnt. And I learned to like cherries because he liked them and I wanted to be like him!

Kenzie: He loved the green chair and the brown chair in the family room. He also told me stories when I was scared when the power was out. He let me sleep on him till you came home. He also mowed the lawn and washed the cars a lot.

Funny to hear what they come up with. I am not sure how much they really remember or if it is more what they have been told. For me he was my rock. I miss him.

Now the rest of summer

2009-08-24T15:22:00.000-07:00

Jacie age 3

Trey age 6

Lexie age 9

Kenzie age 10 (almost 11)

We also spent 9 glorious day at Bass Lake. We missed Dawnelle and fam but we had everyone else up there at one time or another. Kenzie had her first try at wake boarding, Lex with skiing along with Trey. I am always so amazed at the guts these kids have to try new things. Lex and T both did tell me that they were more afraid to let go of the rope then being up on the ski's. I think that is funny! A BIG thanks to Uncle Roger and Uncle Steve for having the patients to get these kids out there and helping them.

As for the rest, we have been home sitting and enjoying what relaxing time we have left of summer. Tomorrow we find out who the kids will have as their teachers. Then they are all off to school. :( What will I do??? I am sure I will think of something!

Summer Rolled Up

2009-08-19T15:12:00.000-07:00

We have had a busy summer and with it coming to an end I will highlight a few of our favorites. Most people that know me know that I tend to stay home and let the fun come to me. Well this summer with the kids getting older we spent more time away from home.

It all started off in Park City Utah.

There was swimming.

Rock Climbing.
Alpine sliding

And more alpine slide. My little (big) girl also did the zip line alone! I was waiting in our room so not to throw up!Ü We had a great time. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa!

Then Jacie's Tonsil Take Out!

We can't decide if we are happy about this. She is a very quiet sleeper now, however her voice is SO loud and squeaky! However she went thought it all like a champ. She was swimming the next day. Never complained of pain and other than the slight sadness and getting tired we couldn't tell she had anything done!

This is the before shot, well as good as I could get!

The wagon ride to the operating room!

Trying to drink some apple juice after waking up!

The day after, relaxing in the pool. I love this kid!

Lexie's 9th Birthday

I think that everyone is aware of how sweet she is. But since I am her mom I can brag a little for her birthday. This is one girl that is cute as much as she is sweet. She is not only a nice girl but she is the best friend to anyone that will let her. Well every girl that will let her. She is willing to help out in any way. She is good at almost everything she tries. She is timid yet bold. She loves to have her back scratched and snuggle which is getting harder to do because she is getting so tall. She is my only blond and she is a super sweet girl! Happy Birthday Lex, I love you!

Thinking she is cool to drink chocolate milk out of a wine glass. Cheers!
Lexie is strong, if you don't believe me arm wrestle her!Ü
She is so sweet! Love you Lex.

YM Pool Night

2009-06-11T15:31:00.001-07:00

Now I am just posting this because it is funny. Brett invited the Young men over for some hoops in the pool last night. He is a great example to them and as my daughter Lexie so well put it last night, "He acts so strangely when he is with these guys!" We got some good pictures and even though it was super cold I think they had a good time. So, this ones for the boys. Adam, Nate and Zac you will be missed. You are fine young men and I welcome you in my home and pool anytime! My son loves you boys and I thank you for letting him look up to you! Ü

Tuned Out

2009-06-11T15:20:00.000-07:00

On Memorial Day we get together with the whole family and swim at my Aunt and Uncles house. The kids are so fun to watch and it is especially fun to spend time together. But Trey learned a very hard lesson that day. Opening your eyes in the pool is fun, till you are done swimming. The poor kid was in tears all night and his eyes were so red I didn't know really what to do to help. So I told him to lay down and close his eyes and let a cool wash cloth "soothe" his eyes. (it was all I could come up with) So this is how he ended up. head phones in and sleeping. It looked a little teenagerish, is that a word?

No that is not drool on his shirt, it is water from the washcloth!

Dodger Blue!

2009-05-22T12:13:00.000-07:00

The older kids got to go to the Dodger game with Brett. They had great tickets then found out they were for the night before. So Brett and his boss came to the rescue and Brett took the kids to the game anyway with not so great seats but fun just the same. It was a nice quiet night for me and Jacie and it looks like they had lots of fun!

6 Year Old

2009-05-13T19:54:00.000-07:00

Trey and Grandpa Burningham! I love this picture.

Trey last year but so cute!

Every day! Yes same outfit, although sometimes it is a Utah Jazz shirt with Boozer on the back!

Easter 09

This is a picture taken at school!

Trey is 6 today! I have had a little time to think back at the love and joy this little boy has brought into not only my life but many people. I feel so blessed to have him. First off the talent of this little guy is truly amazing. He pretty much is good at anything he tries. His first love is basketball. But he is very good at baseball, soccer and swimming. I really think that there is a born talent in kids and he is jam pack with it. He was riding a 2 wheeler 2 weeks after he turned 3. He was swimming without help at 4. He can shoot and dribble a basketball probably as well as any 10 to 11 year old I know and he is a genuinely happy guy by nature. He is a total daddy's boy but will snuggle with me and love me like I am just as important. He is really good at math. I am amazed at what this little man knows already. He is not only talented but he is a nice kid. He doesn't like people being mean to anyone. He loves the special needs kids at school. (he went to pre-school in a peer partners class) He is the first one to let someone know and make them correct it if they say any "bad words" idiot, shut up and gosh being 3 of the most annoying ones to him. He is just an all around good kid. I guess it doesn't hurt that he is cute! Ü Anyway, Happy Birthday Trey. I love you.

Cool Down

2009-05-08T11:00:00.000-07:00

It has been hot that last few days. I remember how much I love the pool at times like this. It is the perfect thing to not only cool off in but to make the kids tired so they sleep SO good. We were in every day last week and I for one am loving all this heat! Brett decided to get in with them last night and I got some really fun pictures. We don't have a diving board (thankfully) so they make their own fun using dad as the diving board! It is all good, Brett gets exercise and the kids get fun! It works.

Easter, Easter

2009-04-14T14:21:00.001-07:00

A rare moment! I love that I had my camera out for this little hug.

Lexie age 8

Kenz age 10

Trey age 5

Diva Jace age 3

For the most part we had a great Easter. Church was the most exciting event we have had in a long time! (if you don't know and want to I will let you know) I had the kids dressed early so I got some pictures taken. I am learning that just because I think things are "cute" doesn't mean that my girls will think so. I got to choose Jacie's outfit but I wasn't so lucky with the other girls. Not that they didn't look cute just not what I had picked out! But thankfully they could have worn a towel and I would have still thought they were the most beautiful kids out there. I didn't get one picture of them together that turned out but this is the closest I could get!

I am so bummed that T's eyes are shut and Jace is picking her eye but whatever.

I love that my girls are all pretty in their own way! They look enough alike (I think) to be sisters but so different to be their own person!

Award Time

2009-04-07T12:38:00.000-07:00

This week was also report card time. Kenz was on the "O Club" and Honor Roll! I love that she is willing to put effort into school and is pretty good at it! Lex also got a "O Club" award but they don't give out any other awards till 4th grade.

About the outfit, she had volleyball practice after school and her team all had to wear the shirts to school. Her nick name is Big Mac.

Jr. Olympics

2009-04-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

Kenzie's first Jr. Olympics. They didn't do as well as they hoped but for it being Kenzie's first time touching a volleyball it was very fun to watch! I loved that she got to play with 2 of her cousins, Josh and Jake. They had a really good time and were very supportive of each other. I am so sad that these are the only pictures that turned out! Owell!

2 Front Teeth

2009-03-25T09:28:00.000-07:00

Trey had to get his second front tooth out yesterday so that the ortho could get some pictures. Now, last time he had a dentist tell him he needed a tooth pulled they didn't numb him enough and he was in a lot of pain and they weren't nice to him. So when Dr. Steve told him he needed to get it out he freaked out. The nurses, who I love and they love him, were almost crying for him. Beatriz is in my ward and she told me that maybe we should say a prayer to help him feel better so we did. They gave him some topical numbing ointment and then I pulled it out. Thankfully I love pulling teeth! So he didn't feel much and he was happy again with in minuets. Here is the finishing product! Oh, and he did tell me on the way home that he was sorry that he was scared. I let him know it is okay to be scared. He then asked if he should write a sorry note to the nurses. I told him we could just write a thank you note. He is such a good boy!

Wedding in Texas

2009-03-16T17:09:00.000-07:00

I don't know why this is so small?? But it is a really good picture.

Alison and I, who by the way were never confused as twins while in Texas.

The beautiful bride!

The handsome devils! Scott and Ryan.

Us at Chilli's at 10 at night!

Some of us girls and Ryan, in the back!

It was cold, windy and raining the whole time we were in Texas. However, we had a great time being together for the wedding. Dawnelle looked stunning, happy and peaceful. I don't have many shots of things but my sister had her camera handy and so I am using her pictures for this entry. So here it is. Us in Texas at Dawnelles wedding to Grady! Who by the way has an amazing family. Thanks for their hospitality and all the work they put in to making this a great day! I am becoming more and more aware that I love my family. All of us seem to just get along so well. I love each of you. DING!

Chopped!

2009-03-11T11:20:00.000-07:00

Lexie has always had long thick beautiful hair and every time she asks me to cut it I come up with a really good reason to leave it long. After she took a shower last night she came down and said, "Mom can you pretty please cut my hair today?" Not really listening to her I said, "Uh huh." She jumped up and down saying thank you I don't know how many times. I asked her why she was so excited and she told me," Cause you are cutting my hair." I then realized what I had agreed to. I couldn't disappoint her and say I wasn't really listening so I cut it. It's only hair right? And she still is a beauty. This was a learning moment for both of us, me listen when my child is talking to me. And Lexie, wait till I am not listening to get the answer she wants!

Baseball Begins

2009-03-09T13:43:00.000-07:00

This is the team! Boys and so funny!

This is the team banner. I think it turned out great. Good job Karalee!

Aren't they so cute?!

Trey is on a team that has a lot of other boys from our Stake in Simi. I am looking forward to not only them becoming friends but us being friends. I looks like we have a pretty good team this year and even though Trey is a little bummed to be the DBacks again he is having a great time with his team and all then coaches, one of which is his dad! Ü

Oh, Yeah

2009-03-05T18:35:00.000-08:00

I went running tonight and I just have to take a moment to brag. I ran my just under 3 mile run tonight in 20.23 minutes. There was a girl on the other side of the street and she was running down the hill on my way up the hill. I thought to myself, I need to beat her to the light on Cochran. So I up'd my pace slightly. I didn't beat her to Cochran but I did meet her there. I was so happy. I am sure I looked like a crazy lady running as fast as I could but I was so determined to get to this skinny, blond girl. I have realized that it doesn't matter how old I get I have got this "have to win" attitude in me. Tonight I thank her because I have never run that run in that short amount of time before. I will tell you that I am dieing now. My hips hurt and my chest is slightly tight but it was worth it. So thanks to the skinny runner girl that fueled my fire and gave me what I needed to win!!! Thanks for reading! Ü

In Awe

2009-02-24T14:36:00.000-08:00

There have been many times in my life that something has left me to wonder, why me. This has usually come followed by a heartbreak, a calling, disappointment or a challenge. But lately because life is so hard at times I have been trying to focus on the things that make me happy. I was sitting in a basketball gym last Saturday watching/coaching my girls first year of playing and I was thinking how amazing they are. Not just talented but willing to put themselves out there to try something new. I think of all the things that kids a expected to do in this time of their lives and that they manage to not only do what they are asked but excel, it's amazing to me. Kenzie was a little nervous about starting basketball this year because she didn't think she would like it. She ended up being one of the best players scoring the most points and being the fastest girls out there. I have wanted this from my kids and to see things like this makes me so happy.

So as I was thinking about my life and the path that I have chosen I am left with the thought, Why Me? Why did I not only luck out in finding someone that excepts me, all of me, but I now have these 4 beautiful, talented kids. They are happy, strong and so smart. They are the one thing that I can count on to not only drive me to my breaking point but give me the most joy and satisfaction. I am sure they don't think that I am the "coolest" mom out there but they sure do make me feel like I am "cool". I love that they are mine. I don't know why I have lucked out the way I have but I am sure glad I get to live the life I have.

Mathematic Genius??

2009-02-05T14:37:00.000-08:00

Tuesday when it was super hot outside I went outside to sit in the sun and wait for the girls to come home from school. Trey was shooting hoops and Jacie was sleeping on the couch so I was able to have a moment of peace, a moment is all! So as I am sitting there wondering what to think about while I was not being bugged I started listening to Trey, who was dressed in light blue shorts and a Utah Jazz jersey. He says this while playing...

The Lakers are up. The score is 8 to 3. It's the Jazz ball and Kyle Korver has the ball, he shoots a 3 pointer and it's good with the chance at a 4 point play because he was fouled! (he then lines up to take the foul shot and makes it) And the crowd is so happy because now the Jazz are only down by 1. (This ended the game because I asked how he knew they were only down by one)

I am aware that he is a bit obsessed with sports but I think it is funny that he could figure out the point difference and how to close the gap in the score. Maybe he won't be so much effort in school in the future.?? I love this boy, now I just wish he would man up and let my pull the hanging front tooth!

Twins??

2009-01-28T13:41:00.000-08:00

Now I have been living here for 4 1/2 years. When I first got here I was mistaken for Alison a lot. I never thought that we looked that much alike. I thought once I had been here awhile people would know that I was me and not her but it seems to be an on going thing. This makes her really happy knowing that she is 7 years older than me! Anyway I thought I would post some pictures and see what everyone else thinks. Now we don't have any real pretty shots of us so this is what I came up with. Sorry Ali!!

We both love Canasta!

We both love to eat, although she is more willing to try new things then me.

We both crack each other up! I know a lot of people have seen this before but it makes me laugh every time I see it.

There are not many people I would like to be confused for. I fear that those that know Alison might think that she is rude when they mistake me for her. But if she could rub off her talents (like fixing things, patients and kindness just to name a few) as much as her looks I think I would be a better person. I love all my sisters and I think that each of us brings something different in to the world. I find it great that we were put here as families and that I happen to be in the perfect on for me.

Total Stranger

2009-01-23T14:04:00.000-08:00

Today I was on the look out for note card holder for Kenzie's class report. I have been to Target and Albertsons so while I was right there I thought maybe the dollar store would have one. I had Jacie with me and as much as I love her she has been trying my patience lately, her and every other 3 year old I know. So this being our last stop I was really done. I was getting checked out and she was yelling to me, "Mommy hold me." I told her when I was done I would hold her. She then yelled it again and I just ignored her. So when we walked out of the door I stopped and looked at Jacie and told her (very calmly, for once) that she is not to talk to me that way and she needs to ask me the right was if she wants me to do something. I stood there and told her I was waiting for her to talk to me nicely. It took all of 10 seconds and she looked up and quietly said," Mommy will you please hold me?" I said, "Sure!" and picked her up and went to walk away. Then this lady who I don't know came running out and was calling at me. I thought I must have forgotten something. She told me that she thought it was great that I put Jacie in her place and that she wishes that she would have done that when her daughter was young because now she is a nightmare, her words.
Now I am NOT thinking that I am the best mom or even close but it was really nice to hear someone tell me that I was doing something right. I think of how close I was to losing my cool with her and it was just nice to have a total stranger make my day. I am going to make more of an effort to tell people "good job!" when they are doing something good. I may not chase them out of a store but I will try to give props where they are due!

Jacie is 3!

2009-01-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that my baby is 3, which means she isn't a "baby". This little girl has brought more peace, joy and love into my life then I can explain. She brought happiness to me at a time that I thought life wasn't fair. Every day I look at her I think of the blessing she is and I cherish everyday with her. This is a little sum up of Jacie's world. She is the 4th and final child to us. She is overly obsessed with her purple blanket and purple popsicles (or otter pops). She has a diet that consists of Strawberry milk, cinnamon toast, strawberry frosted mini wheat's, canned pears and of course popsicles. She is a princess at heart but can play with the best of them! She can beat almost anyone in a puzzle contest up to 63 pieces! Asks everyday if she can go to Grammy's house and when we go she runs with her arms open wide and gives her a HUGE hug! Jacie will play with her "baby" (our dog) at any time and will ride her bike to take her for a walk whenever you ask her. She is not only loved by her parents but by her sisters and brother. She will fall asleep in the oddest of places because she doesn't have the chance to take a real nap.

I could go on and on about this little lady. She is a true blessing and I love her more everyday! Happy 3rd Birthday Jacie aka "Sweets" Mommy loves you!

Jacieism!

2009-01-13T15:38:00.000-08:00

Last night after we all got home from the girls basketball practice it was a free for all for dinner. (We are trying not to eat out as much!) Well Jacie, Brett and Trey were eating corn dogs and pot pies the girls and I had egg and cheese burritos. Jacie wanted to have some strawberry milk but she has to eat a good amount of the food in front of her to get it. So she begins to say this:

Trey is a horn dog
Jacie is a horn dog
and
Daddy is a horn dog.

Brett and I begin to laugh and the kids have no idea why we are finding it so funny. Kenz tell Jacie that there is no such word as a horn dog. It was just a funny thing that made both Brett's and my day! Thanks Jace!

Note for Santa

2008-12-22T16:09:00.000-08:00

So it is the first day off of school and the kids decided to sleep in, stay in their jammies and play together this morning, till Trey got the invite to play at his cousins house. Then Kenz went off to the T.V. and Lexie decided that she would write some notes. She asked me if I had any cards. I said I have Thank You cards. She asked if they were boyish. I said brown and white. She smiled and said perfect. So she takes off and writes this:

She also left room at the bottom for all of the family to sign so that he knew we appreciated him too. She never ceases to amaze me with her thoughtfulness. She is so kind to others. Now I know that she may not have to perfect writing but she makes up for it in other ways! I love this girl. I think that once again she puts me to shame in my holiday thought! I would never have thought to thank Santa. By the way, she is asking for some Ugg Boots. That's all! She is a hard one isn't she?

What's Your Favorite Thing at Christmas?

2008-12-07T15:44:00.000-08:00

This is a question I asked my kids today. I wanted to hear what they remembered, liked and couldn't wait for. I decided to write them down so I could read them in a year or so and see how their answers change. So here is what I got.....

Jacie 2, almost 3-
Princesses, seeing Santa Claus yesterday and the reindeer.

Trey 5-
Opening presents, watching Christmas movies, Our family having a great time and family parties with white elephants. (I don't think he knows what that is but that is what he said)

Lexie 8-
Okay first she added to this like 10 times so excuse the long list.
Baking cookies, having hot chocolate, that everyone is happy when they see their presents, family parties, making gingerbread houses, music, the treats, every house that is decorated, it's pretty!

Kenzie 10-
Gingerbread houses, chime time at Grammy's, listening to Christmas music, waking up to see all the presents, movies, fires, lights on our house and mistletoe, it's funny! (her words)

Dad-
marshmallow brownies, kids happy faces, morning breakfast, family prayer in the morning around the bed, NO WORK.

Me-
There are so many things I love about this season. not only do we get to have time to think about our Savior's life but it reminds me how blessed I am to have a family. I love being able to go to Christmas parties, the smell of a REAL Christmas tree, the brightness of the streets from all the lighted houses, the excitement from the kids in seeing everything. I also love getting Christmas cards from friends and family (especially ones with pictures), baking, singing along with the Osmund Family Christmas CD, And the annual Jingle Bell Rock/Santa Claus is coming to Town dances! It also makes me miss the family not living close and those that aren't living. But I love this holiday and the joy it bring and the giving spirit of the whole season!

Utah Holiday

2008-12-02T15:11:00.000-08:00

And we're off. On our journey to Utah for Thanksgiving. It was a tiresome yet fun trip. We loved seeing all the family and eating all the Cafe Rio that we wanted for a week. It would have made it better to have had more time and maybe a little snow for the kids. But we had fun anyway!

Sunday at the Beach

2008-11-17T13:47:00.000-08:00

Oh, what a beautiful, relaxing day we had yesterday. We don't get to go to the beach all that often as a family so we took full advantage of being together for an afternoon. We built sand castles, played a made up game that Lexie taught us, collected sea shells, watched the seals and dolphins playing in the water and the best part the sunset! This is why I love California. It was so peaceful and after a not so peaceful week it was great to enjoy the fun kids I have and the man I love the most! I still don't think there is anything cuter than watching young kids chase seagulls away and giggling like crazy when sand crabs tickle their hands. Lexie and I also had a cartwheel race from the beach to the shore (I have never been that dizzy) and we also did handstands. She thought I was pretty cool for trying. I will admit to being a little sore today! Ü Here are some shots of our fun.

Schools Out, Scream and Shout

2008-11-11T16:29:00.001-08:00

Today being Veterans day the kids were off of school. We decided that we would do some fun things instead of sitting around. So I tried to play basketball with my lady friends, who are so nice to me! Then we went to the park for a pic-nic. We came home to have a little rest the off to the ice cream store, on foot, stroller, roller blades, motor scooter and bike. I didn't realize how far it is to the ice cream store till we were half way there and I wanted to jump on Kenzie's scooter. But we got there and it was our first time trying out Carvel and the kids were so excited to get a ice cream sandwich. When we walked in the owner of the store informs us that he is most likely closing the doors on Sunday so everything was buy one get one free to get rid of things. I was thrilled we made the journey. Lexie was ever so happy to see that they had frozen banana's and bought a few of them, with her own money! Anyway on the way back Trey gave up on the bike riding. Lexie was so tired of rollerblading. Jacie was just wanting a ride on the scooter so we adjusted things. We ended up having Trey in the stroller, Lexie riding his bike, Jacie on the motor scooter with Kenz and me having a heart attack because I had lost "control" on a busy street. But we made it safely and all was well. The kids would like to return to the ice cream store but driving next time. We also got all the cousin Christmas presents done today! Woo Hoo! And NO one is getting gift cards! Oh, ya a productive day!

Thankful

2008-11-03T15:34:00.001-08:00

I have been thinking for a few weeks now about how lucky of a girl I am. I am one blessed person and so this entry is to let all those that make my life easier know that I am grateful for them. For the sister that is there to bail me out at any time with no excuses or hesitations. For the brother in law that calls or emails to say, "how are you? I am thinking of you". For the mother who is strong, passionate and loves my kids maybe even more than she loves me. For the friends that take me to new places I would otherwise not go. For the little faces I see every day and love me unconditionally. For the girls that show up to play basketball with me and put up with my moods! Ü For the awesome family that I have that are strong members of the church and never slack. For a Dad that taught me to walk tall and be strong, that I miss terribly. For the in-laws that raised a man that is a hard worker, dedicated, and dependable in all the things he does. (even if I don't like it!) For the kids that work hard, and play even harder.
I know that there isn't enough things I can say, but since I haven't been able to get out and run or play basketball lately I have been thinking about all the things that I do have. I love each person in my life, mentioned or not. I learn daily that I can't do it alone and I never want to have to. If you read this somewhat mushy entry take a minute and think off the people in your life that make your life just that much better. And as I am, be thankful!

Primary Program Week

2008-10-27T08:29:00.000-07:00

Just another Sunday. We had our primary program this week which is always my favorite. I love hearing the kids that decide to sing just a little louder than the rest, mine included, the kids that have memorized their parts, the ones that have their parts memorized but choose to read it anyway, the moms, dads, and grandparents smiling proudly in the congregation and the part I love just the most is having only ONE child to juggle during sacrament meeting! I was thrilled to see the growth in the kids this year. Kenzie and Lexie both got to sing in small groups. Lexie sang the 2nd verse of the song "Baptism" with the other baptized 8 year olds of the last year. Kenzie sang the Child's Prayer duet with 2 teachers and 2 cousins and another little girl. It was really sweet. Anyway I forgot to take the pictures of them together so this is all the kids before church. Have I mentioned how much I love Sundays? Ahhhhh, clean kids!

Happy Birthday Brett

2008-10-22T12:39:00.001-07:00

Yep he is turning 36 today! So I decided to write 36 reasons I love him!

1. He loves me

2. He loves his kids

3. Dedicated

4. Hard Worker

5. Loyal

6. Loves his greasy breakfast foods

7. Will never lose his hair

8. Isn't a fan of Chocolate

9. Can't go to bed without a HUGE bowl of ice cream, cookies or whatever else he can find.

10. Is willing to try to sing to the kids when I am not around!

11. Thinks that our kids are as cool as I do!

12. Willing to put up with all the "girl drama" and is good at it.

13. Can take all 4 kids out by himself and never looses one of them.

14. Is willing to let me go to bed at 8:00

15. Loves to do his own yard work.

16. Understands my fascination with Target

17.Will do the laundry if he has to.

18. Makes a mean BBQ

19. Was willing to leave Utah to come to CA

20. Will read princess books to Jacie without complaining

21. I haven't had to wake him up to stop his snoring for a week!

22. Will talk write the kids talks and prepare the scripture for primary

23. Knows all there is about me and still comes home at night!

24. He loves Mint and Chip

25. Never forgets to call me at lunch.

26. Knows when to ask, "What can I do to help."

27. Let's me sleep in on the weekends

28. Reminds me of my dad

29. Patient

30. Tall

31. Loves to watch and Play sports

32. Only drinks Dr. Pepper when the kids aren't around

33. Loves to play pranks

34. Will be the first person called if someone needs help

35. Is a strong Priesthood holder

36. Will always be older than me!

I could go on and on. there is not enough I can say about him. I am always wondering how I got so lucky. I love you honey! I hope you have a great birthday!

Worth It!

2008-10-21T19:25:00.000-07:00

The last few days Trey has been asking me when I was coming to work in the classroom. I tell him 4 more days, 3 more days and so on. Well this morning he said, "Mom today is the day right?" I said, "Yep!" I just thought he was excited for me to come visit. Well as I came in the room I got my usual hello smile and wave he gives me and then he said, "Mom just wait till Mrs. Hunt shows the work!" I said okay and continues on with my "job". Then I heard Mrs. Hunt say ," Friends I am so sad, I only have only good paper to show you today and it is Trey's. Everyone give him a wink and a wave!" I guess when they do exceptional work they get noticed by their teacher then the class gives them a wink and a wave. (which is very funny to watch and hear) I asked him a few weeks ago why I never hear his name being called out for great work and I guess it clicked! Yes, I was a proud mom. He wanted to make sure I was there for his wink and a wave and I have never seen his face so proud! It reminds me that all the times I lose my temper with the things he does that I don't "get" he loves me and I love him. I tend to have a hard time remembering that he is a boy with boy energy and boy smell and all that comes with boy. At the end of the day he is MY boy and I love every inch of him! So here's to you Trey I'm sending you a wink and a wave!

Jacie, Jacie, Jacie!

2008-10-12T17:28:00.000-07:00

Jacie is all smiles on the tractor ride!
Jacie and mom

Jacie LOVES puzzles. She will sit forever just putting them together over and over again. She races the older kids and wins every time!

Bowling on the Day Off

2008-10-09T16:40:00.000-07:00

The birthday girl, I can't believe I have a 10 year old!
Troopers! We have the best older cousins in the world!

Jacie and Livvi liked eating and drinking more than bowling.

My wonderful mom thought it would be a fun idea to go bowling with all the kids since both Emily and Kenzie had their 10th birthday's. We missed to 6 that live far away but we sure had fun.

Last Beach Day

2008-10-09T16:29:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at the beach. It was a beautiful day and the kids were the best. I don't remember ever going to the beach at the end of September and it being hot. Anyway we are sad to say goodbye to summer. I could live in summer all year round!

Sister's Weekend

2008-10-08T20:19:00.000-07:00

This is a tame picture of Melissa and I!
One of many restaurants...
Waiting for Pam and Kristal to get cold stone!
Morning! Yes we do clean up good! We got no sleep but that isn't why we got together!
Last Day! Went to church and all went home!

Okay this was a while ago but I just got some of these pictures and I had to share. I think it is funny how just about everyone I know thinks they have the best family in the world. I have to agree. I love my family. I am always amazed at the fun we have together and the childish behavior that comes out every once in a while. My brothers married women that fit in just perfectly and I am thankful for a mom that loves us unconditionally! So enjoy what we enjoyed!

This is Why I Love Sunday's

2008-09-07T17:00:00.000-07:00

Could it be any better? Clean, good smelling, nicely dressed and smiling, till we get to church. I love my kids looking their best and trying to be their best. I tell Trey every time he is clean that I love a good smellin' boy. So this is why I love Sunday.

Soccer Starts

2008-09-07T16:31:00.000-07:00

We have had an exciting day in the world of AYSO Soccer. Trey was to only one to score on his team and he did so 3 times. The girls (Kenzie and Lexie) are on the same team this year! Thankfully that means we have 2 games a week and they are at the same field. However now that I am the Stake YW Sports Director I get to be at the church from 12:00-3:30 on Saturday. The reason I bring this up is because I was at coed volleyball while Kenzie and Lexie had their first game of the season and Kenzie scored 2 times. It broke my heart to not be there but I am still proud of her just the same! It was so blazing hot that all the kids came home and jumped in the pool with the soccer gear on!

Lizzy the Lizard

2008-09-03T18:50:00.000-07:00

The girls had soccer practice tonight so Brett went with them and I got to stay home with Trey and Jacie. We decided to go on a rather long walk. While we were out Jacie was telling us the color of every flower and letting us know that they all smelled good. Trey lets out a loud scream. Thinking to myself that he either fell, he was on his heelys, or he got stung by a bee I turn around to see what happened. He was in the yard of unknown people in their bushes attempting to catch a lizard. Thinking that it must be a big one I go to help. The following picture is the prize possession!

Cool Saturday

2008-08-31T20:11:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to share about the awesome daughter I have. I will share more about her later because her birthday is coming up but yesterday she went to a swim party. She put on a extremely modest bathing suit that is not all that becoming on her or to the eye! So being the mom that I am here is what happened......

I said, "Kenz, why aren't you wearing the cute new tankini that we just got you?"
her reply, "Mom, the girls at the party are not Mormon and I don't think that I should take the chance that they would see my tummy."
I said to her," It's a modest tankini."
She said, "Yeah but I don't want to take any chances."

I ask you who is the mother here? She is a good girl and I was humbled at the fact that she knows her standards and isn't willing to let her guard down for any reason. I did ask how the party went. She told me that she was the ONLY one wearing a one piece! I love her!

Give me a minute.....

2008-08-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

Today is the 3rd year since my dad passed away. I think about the things he taught me and the lessons I keep with me daily. But instead of crying about how much I miss him and how sad I am that my kids don't know him and how it kills me to see my mom miss him, I wanted to write about how much happiness he gave me in the time that he was in my life.

Things about my Dad:

He loved my mom and family. I don't know many men that are willing to sit in a bedroom and talk to their teenager daughter for hours on end about the same thing, he was willing. He was the pillar a strength in my life. The one person I could go to for any reason and he would give me a hug and just love me. He made everyone of us kids feel as if we were his favorite. But we all knew he loved me the best. Ü I see myself in him in many good and bad ways. He was stubborn, he was funny, he was the darn best popcorn maker I have, or will ever, know. He wasn't afraid to stand up for what he believed. He taught me to love sports, basketball, volleyball and running. He was there to support at any sporting event he could possibly make it to. (even cross country) He loved his cars, house and lawns. He refused to have a gardener or drive through a car wash he did it all himself. (with some help from his kids) He loved Spam Tacos, homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies (with few chocolate chips), and a tall glass of water with a paper towel on the bottom of his cup so the condensation wouldn't get on the wood or counters. He had a fascination with Eeyore and would quote him often, "don't worry about me". He love to serve in the church. He held many callings in his life his favorite was being with the youth. He loved to hear people sing. Even his own daughter's and wife. On all the long drives he would listen to us sing musical after musical and never complained. He loved to take my mom to Sierras on a weekly basis and taught us to date our spouses often! I could go on and on about all the things I loved about my dad. But the thing I loved most is being able to call him DAD. So daddy this is for you. I love you, I miss you and I am trying to live my life so you will be proud of me and I can be with you again. Big Hugs Daddy!

Thanks to all that bore with me. I wish you all could know MY Dad!

Mallow Anyone?

2008-08-24T11:59:00.000-07:00

I just loved spending time with the family roasting marshmallows. We spent almost all day in the pool and all night in the spa and in front of the fire. I love my family.

Kool-A-Koo

2008-08-21T14:12:00.000-07:00

I don't know if anyone has had a Kool-A-Koo, they were a Dodger's Stadium treat. They are a Oatmeal cookie with a cinnamon flavored ice cream in the middle wrapped in a small amount of chocolate. Well I have been thinking about this for a few days and my sister told me about the Ben & Jerry's ice cream, Oatmeal Cookie Crunch, it tastes just like it. Ahhh, bringing me back to the good old days. Try it out, yummmmmy!

These are a few of my Favorite things...

2008-08-19T08:48:00.001-07:00

From top to bottom and right to left:

Kenzie is doing the kids favorite thing "surfing" across the pool.

Lexie is with her cousin Kennedi at the Lake.

Trey is sporting his new sleeping mate, the headgear! (with a few added touches, the fabric on the bottom)

Jacie has on a pair of glasses. She loves them and wears them everywhere. I must pick my battles right?!

Loving Life

2008-08-15T13:16:00.000-07:00

I went to the beach yesterday, just me and the kids. On the way Kenzie asked me if we could listen to the music from Wicked. So I turned it on and all of the kids sang their hearts out. It was funny to hear Jacie and Trey try to sing the songs they don't know so well but try as hard (and loudly) as they could all the way to the beach. It was a fun day.

Baptism

2008-08-06T16:45:00.000-07:00

Well the second of 4 got baptized on Aug. 2,2008. Lexie was beautiful. She was as one of my sisters said "radiant". I don't think that she stopped smiling all day. She was even sick and still had nothing but happiness oozing from her. It was a fantastic day. She is so fantastic. I love you Lex.

Here I go....

2008-08-06T16:37:00.000-07:00

This is my attempt keep up those that want to be updated with our little family. I have decided that there is little in this life that is "sure". I want my kids to be able to have these memories and know how cool I think they are. Life has dealt a few hard hands as of late and the 4 beautiful faces I see everyday makes me keep going.