shumway adventures

Aerica is 13

2010-11-17T08:46:00.000-08:00

So it has been a year since my last post, 365 days of change. It would be fair to say I am a different person today than I was a year ago. I am now a divorced, single Mom, attempting to adjust to this new role. I resisted this route as long as possible, but found myself without another option. Over the last year I have tried to locate the remnants of the girl I was before the trials of my marriage made me unrecognizable to myself. I searched for the strengths I had lost, or the ones that had been broken and forgotten. I have found them. I have also found new undeveloped strengths, qualities that are born in times of trials. So, along with some of the former me, and some of the freshly found me, a new, strong, independent me has emerged with full force.

To those who have stood beside me, cried with me, supported me, Thank you. To those who have made me laugh, made me feel beautiful, held my hand, Thank you. The words of comfort, care and encouragement have been vital in my survival and I can never express the gratitude I feel in my heart for this. Thank you again.

Now where was I, Oh yeah, Aerica is 13. This engaging growing girl is the light of my life. She is witty, kind, and smart. She is caring, and has become one of my best friends. This past year she has endured a whirlwind of change, and has weathered it beautifully. She is an example to me every day, and I have tried to be an example to her. Her soft words of encouragment will forever be ingrained in my memory. I love you Aerica.

Aerica is the typical teen. She loves to go to the mall and "hang out" with her friends.

Her favorite car is a "slug bug". She wants a convertible one. When she saw one at the mall, she HAD to sit in it!

Aerica is 12!

2009-11-17T14:52:00.001-08:00

My sweet Aerica is growing up! What does that mean for me? YIKES! She turned 12 today and for her birthday I got a list of what she wanted, a cell phone, a facebook, a long board, some clothes, the new Justin Bieber (spelling?) CD, and random other things I can't remember, which must mean she didn't get them!! I did get her a cell phone, heaven help me, and I haven't decided on the facebook. It may cost the least, but might end up costing me the most right?
Well, since she has volleyball games tonight (GO spikers!)and can't go somewhere, I decided to check her out of school and take her to Provo for lunch and shopping. We also took two of her best friends, Josie and Lydia, whose parents were awesome to let them come celebrate with us. I know, I'm a cool mom! I learned from the best! (Right Mom!) Anywho, I ate with them, then let them shop the mall without me, alas, I shopped alone, who am I kidding, I loved it!!
It was slightly a wake up call for me about getting close to having a teenager. We weren't 5 minutes out of Mona and I almost passed out from smelling the perfume and lotion these girls were slathering on. And I won't be able to listen to Britney Spears anymore(not admitting I do) without laughing and thinking of these crazy girls. They were listening to Britney's "CIRCUS" song, but singing "All eyes on me in the center of the ring just like asparagus", if you get a chance, listen to it, that's exactly what it sounds like. They sang and jabbered all the way there. I just laughed inside at how much fun they were having, and remembered being that young. So, happy birthday Aeri-Lou, Love you to pieces!!!

Halloween 2009, come and gone already

2009-11-01T11:03:00.000-08:00

We had a fun halloween this year, and the kids got TONS of candy. I can't believe it's over already. Here are some of my favorite pictures.

Yes, I did dress up as Flo, the progressive insurance girl, she rocks her tricked out name tag!

Cassie, Mindy and I mummified by our kids

Nana's Annual Spooky Halloween Party 2009

2009-10-31T21:38:00.000-07:00

The Annual party at my mom's this year topped all previous years. It was great. For those of you reading this, you may not know my Mom. She is an amazing lady, and she LOVES halloween, no doubt why I love it too. She decorates and prepares for her spooky party for weeks. She plans activities, treats, and spooky fun for all her grandkids that can make it. This year she had 10 of her 20 grandkids which isn't bad since the ones who couldn't make it live in China, Alaska, and Missouri.
We had a treasure hunt that took the kids from clue to clue, outside, to the neighbors, the backyard, then ended with a seriously grand goody bag, can you say who needs to trick or treat after that? I can't do justice in description to all the fun things we did but I will list some of them: We made magazine cut-out monsters, jack-o-lanterns with Mr Potato head pieces (so cute), had mom's infamous chili, yummy provo bakery sugar cookies, cut and tasted a spooky gummy hand, then watched a spooky movie, (Watcher in the Woods? Who knew disney could be so scary!) Two new things we did this year that were SO fun, one was when the kids got to wrap their own mommy into a mummy called "wrap your Mummy", it was hilarious and my sisters and I loved being mummified by our kids. The 2nd was a great picture background that you put your face in that was painted by Holli and Lisa, it was a crack up. All in all the party was the best day I have had in a long time. Spending time with family while laughing and enjoying each other cannot be topped. Thanks mom for an awesome night. We missed everyone far away!!

Kamryn's version of "Grand Ole Flag"

2009-10-31T15:54:00.000-07:00

Prepare yourself for my adorable niece's version of grand Ole Flag. She sang for us last night at Nana's Spooky Halloween party. Who can deny this little mermaid has a voice, and Randy Jackson would agree with her "don't let them know you made a mistake" motto. Sorry about the side-ways picture, if anyone knows how to turn it, let me know!! Love you Kam!

Crazy Hair Day 2009

2009-10-27T16:29:00.000-07:00

For family night we got our supplies ready for crazy hair day. We walked around Michaels looking for our goodies, then got everything ready to save time in the morning. It was alot of fun.

Pipe cleaners for the bees and the lawnmower. Flowers for Jessie's "Hive"

Green dye for Cy's "grass", bugs cause who has grass with no bugs?

Yarn also for Jessie's "Hive", Jessie doesn't have enough hair to make a big enough Hive without help!

READY,

SET,

GO!

Yes, I really did cut his hair, he was WAY overdue for a haircut anyway!

Aerica picked all her props out herself, fitting for her right?

Cy ended up winning fist place for his grassy head, he got his picture taken for the paper, he was excited. But who am I kidding, we all know I had as much fun as them.

Dear Darci,

2009-10-26T02:06:00.000-07:00

Off entertaining flights of fancy, Be back soon.
love, Becky and Analisa

Pumpkin Carving at the Shumway House!

2009-10-21T20:48:00.000-07:00

We even carved a watermelon and an acorn squash.

2009-10-21T20:45:00.000-07:00

Check out these moves!! She can be hired for choreography if anyone is interested. (Be sure to mute the background blog music first!)

Trick or Treat Ready!

2009-10-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

Fall Weather

2009-10-12T17:55:00.003-07:00

I took this picture out my back window, love this kind of weather!

Let the sewing frenzy begin!!

2009-10-12T17:45:00.000-07:00

halloween sewing has comenced. Actually, at this time of posting, I have just finished all three of my kids costumes! I know, I'm amazing. But, I don't have pictures yet, just my starting pictures. This years challenge came in the form of Aerica drawing her own design. She wants to be a devil, a cute sassy devil. So, with no pattern I had to dig deep. It turned out great, Aerica deserves some design credit too. I also did Cy's without a pattern. I don't know what I was thinking, but I think it turned out ok, I will post pictures soon!

Thanksgiving Point

2009-10-12T17:29:00.000-07:00

For fall break we took the kids to Thanksgiving point. We saw the 3D movie about bugs, perfect for my kids. If you know my kids very well, you know they are all crazy about any kind of bugs, but especially preying mantis. Jessie collects the cocoons and keeps them so they will hatch. Don't tell, but I try to find them all and throw them away. So far no hatching babies in the house! Well, the bug movie has a story about a preying mantis, it shows it hatch and all the thousands of other babies hatch out of the cocoon too. In the quiet theater, my mesmerized 6 year old, with her giant 3D glasses on, whispers to herself "my dream come true". Chad and I just looked at each other, choking back our laughter. My kids loved it, we had a good day.

Pine Wood Derby

2009-10-12T17:20:00.000-07:00

So, Cy had his first Pine Wood Derby. He had tons of fun. He and Chad worked of his car together, Cy designed and did most the work himself. Chad helped when he was needed. Cy took the pictures himself, so, these are what he thought was improtant. Good Job Cy!

Hospital Blues

2009-08-25T13:31:00.001-07:00

Jessie ended up in the hospital over the weekend for 2 nights due to her asthma. She just couldn't breathe. She had some visitors who brought her some good treats and my little ponies (her favorite, thanks Kiz and Baker!) And she loved playing old maid with grandma nanny (my mom). They helpled make it better for her, thanks guys. She is home now, and we are doing her breathing treatments here. She is much better and ready to go back to school. I definately like working at the hospital better than being a customer! At least Aerica liked the wheelchair.

First day of school 2009

2009-08-25T13:14:00.001-07:00

Another year already!! I have reached a milestone, all my kids are in school a full day this year. Whatever will I do with myself? Pedicures? Shopping? Nah, probably just cleaning, laundry, and sleeping. Aerica is now in 6th grade, the rulers of the elementary right? How well I remember. Cy is in 3rd grade and loves his teacher already, and Jessie is in 1st grade. She likes school lunch and 3 recesses. Hope everyone has a great school year!!

July 4th

2009-08-25T12:36:00.001-07:00

We had fun this year. The Harrison kids were visiting and we had lots of fireworks, swimming, and treats. We had fun on the "Euro-bungee", yes even mom!! I hadn't done double back flips in years!!! The guy strapping me into the harness was IMPRESSED with my flips until Aerica let it slip that I used to be a gymnast, I was okay with me just seeming like a natural. Well, we all had fun. If I can figure out how to post the vidoe clips I will!

Finally!

2009-06-28T16:06:00.000-07:00

Jessie finally lost her first tooth! Her permanent tooth has grown in behind it, we have been waiting for it to fall out. We took her to the dentist and he made an appointment to pull it, so we were against the clock to get it out. I told Jessie I would give her $5 if she got it out herself. So what did she buy with her $5? Jonas brothers pajama's. Oh my does she love "Joe", but don't tell her I told you. It's a secret.

disregard the dirty nails, It's summer people!

Happy Birthday Cy!

2009-06-28T15:46:00.000-07:00

Okay, sorry for the blog stall! It's summer! Well, to catch up Cy turned 9 on the 19th. We had some fun with cousins at nan's, and had cake at home. He got a basketball hoop, and a bunch of matchbox cars, exactly what he asked for. He also got a model car, a lamborghini (spelling?)from Aunt Kellie, Amaya and Avery, and an awesome Bionicle from Aunt Mindy, Maddie and her boys. He did pretty good! We had fun and can't believe he is getting so big. Sorry the pictures are turned, I tried to fix it, just tilt your head!

Fashion Show

2009-06-03T03:19:00.000-07:00

These two had a great time dressing up at the Children's Place. They picked these outfits themselves, they start slow, but notice the attitude increasing pose by pose, watch out!

Memorial Day 2009

2009-05-26T04:50:00.001-07:00

Our Special Silver Maple

2009-05-26T03:12:00.001-07:00

Our family has a tree that holds a special place in our hearts for an infant lost. Jessie wanted to place her memorial windmill here. She decided this herself, and I was touched by her request. This beautiful tree has been growing 10 years this summer and is a reminder to us about the blessings of having an eternal family.

What a ham!

2009-05-17T04:06:00.001-07:00

Kellie brought us all gifts from China, Thanks Kell! This is the China dress that she gave Aerica, it fits perfect. Jessie got one too, but of course my Aerica is the one posing, just like always!

Salt and Pepper

2009-05-17T03:52:00.001-07:00

No explanation needed. So happy to see Amaya after almost three years! These two are still the same opposite spicy girls!

I met my niece today!

2009-05-17T03:33:00.001-07:00

Avery really exists! This little gal has lived out of the country her whole life and I was starting to wonder if she was real, maybe Kellie just made her up? Well, I met her on Sat, and she is a sweet, smiley, trusting, adorable thing that Cy has fallen in love with. He carried her around and loved every minute of it. It was so fun to see my sister and this spunky girl she has been raising in China. I plan to spend as much time with Kellie, Avery and Amaya as possible throughout the next 3 weeks.

Jessie is 6

2009-05-15T04:09:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Jessie! My baby turned 6 on Wednesday. She decided she didn't want a cake, but cupcakes that everyone could decorate and have their own candle to blow out. She did most of the work, with mom "helping" and baked up some funfetti cupcakes. She got a new bike, a webkinz (her favorite) and hasn't even had her party yet. We are waiting to do her party when aunt Kellie and cousins get here from China. She is getting so big, We love you!

Remeber when....

2009-05-06T14:07:00.000-07:00

Ok, who remembers when they were little girls (sorry, but I doubt there are many guys reading this) and you spent the day making up a dance, or a lip sync and then performed for your parents. Don't kid yourself, I know you did it. Well, I have just been on the parenting end of my first "recital" from my daughters. They spent Saturday working on this to show me. Chad rolled his eyes, but I remembered. I remebered those silly things I performed for my mom, and how she always said it was "beautiful" or "great" or whatever compliment she could muster while usually containing her smile and laughter. So, all you Mom's out there, get your camera's ready when your kids perform for you. You will be able to laugh for years to come. I only posted part of this since it was pretty long, but if you want the whole jem click here.

ALSO... I just saw this on Lisa's blog, HILARIOUS! I have a great idea, anyone who has any video's of their kids dancing, POST THEM!! I want to see them!!

PS: Remember to turn off the blog music first!

So Funny!

2009-04-26T03:12:00.000-07:00

So probably everyone has seen Susan Boyle from "Britain's Got Talent", but have you seen Stavros Flatly? If not, click here Thanks goes to Allison for showing me, 3am at work, SO Funny!

2009-04-26T02:08:00.000-07:00

Kids grow up to fast! I had to get a few pictures of Aerica in her easter dress. We had fun this year shopping for her dress. We even shopped in "grown-up" stores, she is too tall for kids stores, but still so scrawny. She is 5'2'' now, that's barely shorter than me! She'll be taller than me before I know it. (not too difficult!) She definately takes after her dad.

Butterfly Catcher

2009-04-24T01:46:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CASSIE!!!!

2009-04-23T04:26:00.000-07:00

My cute little sister that lives in Vegas is havin a birthday today!! We miss you and your family here, hope you have a great day today! Give kisses to your girls!

MISS YOU CASSIE!

Hangin with Jessie

2009-04-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

I'm gonna miss hangin with Jessie next year when she will be in school a full day. I love having her home half the day when it's just me and her. We eat lunch together, and read books. Today she posed while I took a few pictures. She is so fun, and getting bigger every day.

Animal Fair

2009-04-20T18:44:00.000-07:00

The second grade at Mona Elementary had an animal fair on Friday. The kids got to pick an animal and research it. They spent 6 weeks or so learning and writing about their animal. Cy picked the pygmy marmoset, which I have since learned is the smallest monkey in the world. Cy has educatd me on where it lives, it's diet and just about everything you could know about that wierd monkey. He loved this assignment, he had fun and really did learn a lot. It was fun to go to the fair and watch him tell all the kids about it. His presentation was a hit, kids loved the pictures of this funny monkey. Great job Cy!

Happy Birthday Kris!

2009-04-15T18:06:00.001-07:00

I wanted to send a shout out to my sis in Alaska, her birthday is thursday the 16th, I hope you have a great day, I miss you and your family. I can't wait to see you this summer!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY SISTA!

Easter Weekend

2009-04-15T00:54:00.000-07:00

We spent Easter weekend in Blanding this year. The weather was less than spring-ish, but we still had fun. We got to see friends we have missed and spend time with family. We colored easter eggs and the kids had fun hiding them over and over at grandma's house. It was a good break for us, now let's just cross our fingers for some better weather!

Cy helped grandma make smoothies, they were GOOD! Seth had the cutest smoothy mustache the rest of the night

We colored eggs with our friends the Bleaks, Aerica and Tia made themselves each a "third eye", weirdo's!

We went to the easter egg hunt, it was raining and cold, but we wouldn't miss it!

A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E!

2009-04-05T00:15:00.000-07:00

I love this picture! Jen took this of the kids during the state tournament. Between all my sisters and I, there are 5 kids the same age. 4 girls and 1 boy. This is 4 of them after a night together at grandma's with Aunt Jen. Missing is Annie, she lives in Alaska and can probably beat any of these 4 in attitude. We sure miss her! I included a picture of her, you can see she would have fit right in! We love you Annie!

Ready for Spring!

2009-03-22T18:11:00.000-07:00

Finally! It looks like spring is actually here! We enjoyed a nice day at the park in the sun. Looking forward to summer, no school, and a nice vacation!

Family Fun

2009-03-22T17:51:00.000-07:00

We had great time supporting Provo High Basketball recently at the E-center, We all wore our green and had fun. Cy met Thurl Bailey and he signed Cy's foam finger. Cy was really excited.

Which side of the car is the gas tank on?

2009-02-13T01:49:00.001-08:00

So, Cy has always been an observant kind of kid. He likes explanations for everything. When he was 4 he wanted to know why the lines in the road changed. Some times there were dotted lines, sometimes dotted and solid lines, sometimes the solid line was on the other side of the dotted line... you get the point. He notices everything. It's been kinda fun this basketball season because he sits with Chad and the team on the bench and goes into the locker room with them at half-time. I've always wondered what was said in those tense moments at half-time. From the time I was young and went to my Dad's games, till now, I've always wondered what was said. Well, now I have my own little spy. He is the perfect detail remembering kid that has no idea he shouldn't come out and spill it all to me. It's perfect.

So, back to the title of this post. We were driving to Layton this week for a basketball game and from the backseat Cy says "Mom, that car's gas hole is on the wrong side" Now imagine that phrase in your head, who's WHAT is on the wrong side? I said "what did you just say?" and He repeated it. I just sat there and laughed to myself, for one that he noticed it, and two... gas hole? Try not laughing at that.

Just thought I'd share.

Broken Furnace and Eggs

2009-01-29T01:50:00.000-08:00

First, the eggs. For the last couple months I have been finding raw eggs, from the fridge, here and there around Jessie's room. I collect them, count my blessings I haven't found a broken one, tell her how bad that would stink, tell her to knock it off, and throw them away. This has happened so many times I am at a loss of what to do, or why she is doing this. Does she think it's easter? Who knows, but this week I went in to Jessie's room, picked up a pillow off her chair, and found a dozen eggs. Yes, an entire dozen. I don't know how long they had been there, I called Jessie in, and she immediately started crying that I had found them. I called Chad in to see and he thought it was cute, I was just mad, until she explained that now that we took off the pillow, she couldn't sit on them anymore and now they won't hatch.

I guess that's cute.

We explained eggs from the store won't hatch, and she seemed devestated, but now maybe my eggs will stop disappearing!

Stinking Furnace! (literally)

So it was the middle of the night last weekend when we were awakened by the smoke detector. We got up thinking "stupid piece of crap", went in the hall into a cloud of smoke, that's when the panic set in. Chad and I ran into the kitchen first, nothing. Ran downstairs to the kids rooms, no smoke down there, kids all fine, ran back up stairs, turned on all the lights and saw the smoke was coming out of the vents. So Chad went to the furnace, the fan motor was siezed and burning. So we turned it off. No fire, but a stinky, smokey, cold house. And then, a big storm, Nice! It turns out the furnace was under warranty, and Lennox was sending out a repair man, on Monday. What? Yes, a weekend with a big storm, and no furnace. I had to work every night, so I was in the warm hospital. My kids thought it was fun having the gas fireplace on, and cuddling up with dad. I got some pictures of where Jessie pretty much camped for 3 days. But don't worry, it is all fixed and warm at our house now!!

That would be her bubble-tape there with her, gotta have the essentials!

Kara DioGuardi

2009-01-26T03:01:00.000-08:00

So I'm sure some of you have been watching American Idol, me too. How do you all feel about the new judge Kara DioGuardi? I love her, she adds that girl power that was missing. Between her and Paula they can finally put Simon in his place, am I right? She is sassy and fun, but do you really know much about her? Who is she? Why is she qualified to be an "American Idol" judge? Well, I decided to find out these questions and I was very surprised at what I found. She is a grammy nominated "Hitmaker". Of the several hundred songs she has written, 268 have been released on major labels world wide, and over 168 have appeared on multi-platinum selling albums. Impressive eh? Her songs have been recorded by grammy award winning artists such as: Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, Kelly Clarkson, Celine Dion, Pink, Faith Hill, and Carrie Underwood. And tons of other artists like: Britney Spears, Avril Lavigne, the Jonas Brothers, Hannah Montana, Leona Lewis, EVEN David Archuleta! I have added a bunch of her songs to my blogs playlist if you want to hear them, and you can visit her blog here to find out more about her. So watch out Simon, I'm tuning in to see what she has to say from now on.

Jen's Hidden Blogs!

2008-12-30T23:35:00.000-08:00

I love reading my sister's blogs, they are a great way to stay in touch, and it makes me feel connected to my 6 amazing sisters. It has come to my attention that one on my sisters has been holding out on me and has "hidden" blogs. Sorry Jen, but I am posting the links and "outing" you. I hope you still love me!

Wow, Jen, that's a good question, how would an apple feel? We never knew you were so multi-faceted, click here, oh who knew you could make taco meat with walnuts and pumpkin seeds! click here for her recipe

So inventing a life in Shanghai? Isn't that ripping off Kellie a little? I know, a girl's gotta dream, click here

This one is my favorite, I love how you feel so free to share your self-portraits, your self confidence is a truly inspiring quality. Click Here

What a creative girl! I hope we all remember to add these to our blog lists!!!

Christmas Rush!!

2008-12-20T22:26:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone! I have been so busy getting ready for christmas I haven't had time to post much, not to mention my camera is broken, so I hope you all have a great christmas and I try to post some pictures soon!!

Chasing penguins

2008-12-04T20:24:00.000-08:00

If anyone has been around my kids, you know they sing all the time. In the car, in the shower, doing chores, seriously all the time! And they really love to sing with the radio. Most of you have probably heard the song "Chasing Pavement" by Adele, if not it's on my playlist. This is a song we listen to in the car alot. The song goes like this "should I give up or should I just keep chasing pavement even if it leads no where" Well, recently I noticed my Jessie sings "should I give up or should I just keep chasing penguins" It makes me laugh, I can't even hear the song anymore without hearing "penguins" and now, neither will you!

Happy Birthday Aerica

2008-11-17T01:49:00.000-08:00

11 years ago today I was blessed with this sweet spunky little girl. She's had a sparkle in her eye since the day she was born. I am loving (and sometimes hating) the new experiences that come with a pre-teen. She is helpful and smart and knows more about wildlife than anyone I know, except maybe Chad. I love her more everyday, Let me list some of my favorite things about Aerica.

She sings all the time
She is the tallest kid in her class.
She is 5ft 1 and doesn't trip the airbag in the front seat
She can laugh at herself
She is confident
She is kind
She looks just like her dad

I love you Aerica! If you have a something you like about this amazing girl, feel free to share!!

Lessons in Life

2008-11-13T16:26:00.000-08:00

I recently reconnected with a good friend of mine, as I was looking through her blog I came upon her posting entitled "Lessons in Life". She had read recieved an email with 50 lessons in life and had taken her favorite 20 and posted them. I loved this post and with her permission decided to post the 20 she singled out. Here they are, along with the 21st that I got from my Mom as we were discussing this topic. Thanks Angie! I would love to get some comments back of any good "lessons in life" anyone has!
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
3. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
4. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
5. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special!
6. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
7. Always choose life.
8. Forgive everyone, everything.
9. What other people think of you is none of your business.
10. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
11. Believe in miracles.
12. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
13. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
14. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.
15. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
16. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
19. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
20. The best is yet to come.
21. Those that mind, don't matter; and those that matter, don't mind.

Let's hear yours!

The Great Eight

2008-11-01T21:35:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged by my friend and coworker Rachelle, so here it goes.

8 T.V. Shows I watch...
1. Raising the Bar (New TNT series, love it!)
2. Law and Order
3. CSI
4. Cold Case
5. Without a Trace
6. Wife Swap
7. One Tree Hill (pathetic I know)
8. 90210, the new one (Hard to admit, but what can I say?)

8 Favorite Restaurants...
1. Cafe Rio
2. My husbands grilling (does that count?)
3. Applebee's
4. Outback
5. Chinese buffet (there's a few I like)
6. Bleak's bar and grill ( miss this one!)
7. FuddRuckers
8. Dairy Queen (white trash, I know)

8 Things that happened yesterday...
1. Got home from work at 0530 am
2. Slept
3. Parent-Teacher Conferences, yikes!
4. Pre trick or treat nap with all 3 of my kids on the king size bed, it was the best
5. Costume time
6. Trunk or Treat at the Mona Church
7. Trick or Treat all around the neighborhood
8. Went to work for ER night shift

8 things I look forward to...
1. Next Halloween, I know, I'm a freak
2. Basketball season starting
3. Basketball season ending
4. Family Time!
5. Spending more time with my Mom and Dad and sisters now that we live closer
6. Sewing and quilting for the holidays
7. Christmas shopping
8. Family time

8 things on my wish list...
1. Happiness for everyone
2. Successful basketball season for Chad
3. Successful basketball season for my Dad
4. More quality time with loved ones
5. Expanding my family
6. Less stress
7. More dropping of interest rates!!
8. Higher pay for teachers, yeah right

8 Words or phrases I use all the time...
1.Seriously
2. Freak or freakin' (gotta work on this one)
3. You are kidding
4. Apparently...
5. Stop that!
6. I'm serious, you better stop that!
7. Hey
8. I need a diet coke like now!

8 people I tagged...
1. Jen
2. Mindy
3. Kellie
4. Cassie
5. Holli
6. Missy
7. Anna

Halloween 2008!!

2008-10-31T20:22:00.000-07:00

Jackie and Dizzy

2008-10-30T01:19:00.000-07:00

Jessie's best friend is Kelton, a boy in her kindergarten class. She calls him "Jackie" and he calls her "Dizzy". Check out the post here to hear how that came about. She invited him to Aerica's halloween party. Honestly, I have never seen Jessie stare at anyone the way she stares at Jackie, it is so cute, she totally focuses on him. He came to the party dressed like a pirate and they were hip to hip the whole night. On the drive to take him home, I asked him if he wanted me to call him Kelton or Jackie, he said Jackie was fine. The rest of the conversation went like this:

Me: So, calling you Jackie is okay with you?
Jackie: Yeah, I have two nicknames.
Me: Really? What are they?
Jackie: Telly-monster, and Jackie, Dizzy made up Jackie
Me: Yeah I heard she gave you that one.
Jackie: I gave her two nicknames too, sometimes I call her Flower, and sometimes I call her Dizzy, (long pause)...and sometimes I call her cute.
Me: (My mom and I exchanged surprised smiles)Oh yeah?
Jackie: and she calls me handsome. (little twinkle in his eye and a giant grin)

I'll say it again, I'm in big trouble! But, if arranged marriages were the thing, I would sign up Dizzy and Jackie in two seconds!! He is the cutest little thing, Jessie has good taste!

PARTY!!

2008-10-30T00:55:00.000-07:00

Aerica had her first halloween party yesterday, it was great. She invited all her friends and I got to decorate and really get into my element. My mom graced us with her fortune-telling talent and the kids loved her. Jessica and Cy both got to invite a couple friends and the party was hoppin'. Jessie invited her favorite friend Kelton aka "Jackie". Everyone had fun, especially me, good thing I talked Aerica into having a party.

Pre-Halloween

2008-10-30T00:43:00.000-07:00

So we all know how excited I get for Halloween, and this week has been busy already. Monday was the elementary carnival. We got all dressed up and had a blast. My kids loved the huge blow-up slide and used most of their tickets on that. We spent 2 hours there, which is twice as long as I have ever spent at the school carnival, it was nice to let the kids just go and play, I almost felt useless. I did dress up, I just wish someone would have told me no other parents were wearing costumes, oh well.

Aerica's Volleyball 08

2008-10-30T00:31:00.000-07:00

Aerica has started her new season of Volleyball, her team are the Utes. I just can't make myself say "Go Utes", but I'm working on it. She had her first game this last week. I must say, this girl is all legs, wish I could say she got it from me. She can thank her Dad for those!

She does however still have the same cross legged stance she loved last year! Wierdo! Half pelican in former life maybe?

This years picture and last years, freakily not much different, no more long hair is about all!

Maui Baby!

2008-10-11T21:38:00.000-07:00

My Mom and Dad went to the Maui and since our weather is getting crappy I thought I'd share some of their beautiful pictures to lighten us up!

Create Your Own

Moving on to number 2

2008-10-06T21:41:00.000-07:00

This will eventually be Mom's (my Mom's) pirate, she has tired of the witch I made her a few years ago, (picture on the posting) and has ordered a new one. So watch for the finished product, it is already cut and ready to sew!!

One down!

2008-10-06T21:36:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I've got one down, besides a few embellishmnents to the mask and gown, this along with a very fancy hairdo is Aerica's dream of a masquerade princess. Moving on to Mom's pirate.

Let's Remember Halloween from the Past

2008-09-30T00:09:00.001-07:00

Halloween Inspiration

2008-09-29T23:26:00.000-07:00

This is my inspiration for Aerica's halloween costume this year. I found this mask and Aerica fell in love with it. She wants to dress up like a masquerade ball queen, so I went and got these fabrics to make her a fancy ball gown. I'm not sure what we will call this, "masquerade mayhem"?, I'm open to suggestions. I will post the finished product, watch for it!

Three is not a crowd!

2008-09-29T23:22:00.000-07:00

Cy, Maddie and kirstyn were baptized on Saturday, it was really neat to see them all together dressed in white. It was a special day that our family will always remember.

Baptism x3

2008-09-29T22:26:00.000-07:00

The Exciting New World of Boy Scouts

2008-09-20T04:16:00.000-07:00

I have been introduced to Boy Scouts. Having been raised with no brothers, and no experience with boy scouts this is all new to me. Cy just had his first "pack" meeting. The whole family went and we roasted hot dogs and marshmallows around a camp fire, they introduced Cy to the pack and their families and did boy scout cheers. Cy absolutely loved it. He looks forward to his Wednesday scout meetings and this week he had his space derby. He shaped, sanded, and painted a rocket. They take turns racing them on a string, he won all three of his races and got the "lightning" award. This whole scout thing in strange and new to me, but so far, so good. I guess Cy and I will both learn as we go.

School Days Are Here Again!!

2008-09-20T03:29:00.000-07:00

So I know school has been in for a month or so, but better late than never right? The kids have adjusted well to their new school here in Mona, they have made some new friends and are doing great. Jessie loves kindergarten, she also "loves" Jackie, let me explain:

Jessie: Mom, I made a new friend, his name is Jackie
Me: Really? That's great
Jessie: Well, his name is really Kelton, but I call him Jackie
Me: Oh, why?
Jessie: Just because, I call him Jackie, and he calls me Dizzy
Me:(raised eyebrows) Uh, ok
Jessie: We are in Love
Me: REALLY? How do you know you are in love?
Jessie: Because he is nice to me, so we just started being in love.
Me: Oh crap, I'm in trouble!

And then there's Cy, I have never actually met another boy named Cy, but believe it or not, there is another Cy in my Cy's class. Right here in little ol' Mona Ut. Spelled the same and everything, yeah I know.
You know what's weirder? They (the two Cy's) are the only two lefty's (lefthanded) kids in his class, seriously what?

And that leaves Aerica, 5th grade and loving it. What else can I say?

It's Finally Fall!

2008-09-07T01:19:00.000-07:00

Who Loves Fall? I know I do, and we all know it's a countdown to Halloween for me. I even have a new sewing machine, and I can't wait to start working up some costume fun!What do you think of my new costume idea for this year? Well, kids started school, Cy started scouts and I have lots of new pictures of that coming soon. Until then be thinking Halloween thoughts!

2008-07-20T10:11:00.001-07:00

July 4, 2008

2008-07-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

We hit the celebration in Nephi for the 4th, what a blast! The kids loved the rock wall (of course), but the most fun was the grease pole, yes, a grease pole. There was money attached to the top for whoever could get high enough to grab it, alas, no cash was grabbed, but I was impressed at the determination of my kids.

As is our strange tradition, Cy got his mohawk for the 4th. I didn't even have to paint it red myself like the last 2 years, in Nephi, they have a booth for festive americana face and hair paint, perfect!

Jessie rode the outlaw train and then dad's shoulders, we had a great day!!

Sketch Challenge

2008-06-12T22:51:00.000-07:00

So here is my Sketch Challenge, Okay, I want you all to know this pose was not a set-up. This was just her natural personality coming out. She struck this pose all by herself!! Talk about diva! (Alicia, I think we're both in trouble!) So Jen, Do I get extra points for doing this challenge first? Thanks for the challenge Jen!!

2008-06-10T22:17:00.001-07:00

wE loVe SuMmeR!!!

2008-06-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

Well, for old times sake, and I guess new adventures for my kids, Holli, Lisa and I took my kids up Provo Canyon today. We stopped at Canyon Glen, Vivian Park and South Fork Park. It was a little breezy, but the kids loved it. Canyon Glen was "the place" to hang out and barbeque back in the day, but I hadn't been there in years. There are now some strange rock sculptures there, however, they don't compare to the "naked chinese boy's" sculptures you can find on Kellie's blog (There is a link if interested,) but the kids liked climbing on them.

Up at South Fork Park, Aerica was, you guessed it, up the tree. She scaled this tree in like 3 seconds. She has some freakish tree climbing talent.

Great Grandma Drury

2008-06-10T20:34:00.000-07:00

This post is for my Grandma, Louise. She is 88 years old, and is amazing. She never forgets any birthdays, wether they are for her kids, grandkids, or great-grandkids. She was here last weekend and Jessie asked her to come play the piano for her. So we went in the living room and "Grandma Great" (as she is called by her great-grandkids) entertained us with her singing and musical talent. My kids adore her and I am so glad they have been able to be blessed by this great lady. Love you Grandma

20 things I'll never do

2008-06-04T20:57:00.000-07:00

Okay Jen, here it goes. I was sure I couldn't find 20 things I'd never do besides the obvious suggestions (by Jen) like... eat dog poop, duh! I mean they have to be 20 things other people might do right? Or what would be the point, so here are 20 things "I" would NEVER do.

1. Vote for Hilary Clinton for President

2. Vote for Hilary Clinton for anything!

3. Represent Utah mom's by bringing all my kids with me and trying out for "So you think you can dance" No, I don't.

4. Stop thinking my kids are AMAZING!

5. Stop loving Barry Manilow, yes that's right!

6. Pierce my tongue.

7. Hold arts and crafts classes in my basement.

8. Attend arts and crafts classes in your basement.

9. Wait in line all night to buy tickets to the New Kids on the Block reunion concert. (Sorry Mindy, your on your own)

10. Break the world Karaoke record of 40 straight hours.

11. Make my kids wear the same Halloween costume twice.

12. Barter at a yard sale for a child's used training potty.

13. Suggest polygamy to my husband. (I'd rather get slapped with a fish!)

14. Slap someone with a fish.

15. Get the love of high school basketball out of my blood.

16. Perform at a Provo High School basketball game halftime with the alumni cheerleaders (sorry Mindy, your on your own again.)

17. Stop loving gossip magazines.

18. Get fake eyelashes made of mink fur and diamonds.

19. Trade any of my 6 awesome sisters for a brother.

20. Talk less than anyone else in the room!

Okay, so let's hear your list!!

WOW! Who'd a thunk it?

2008-06-04T19:23:00.000-07:00

TV Reviews

We made it through another year!!!

2008-05-22T21:05:00.000-07:00

It's the last day of school! Our kids are SOOOO ready for a break. It's even going to be a great break for Chad, teacher's get summers off too! But it's going to start off busy! We will be packing, cleaning and moving to Nephi. Then... new jobs, unpacking and getting settled. But we are excited and are planning some fun along with the work. I will keep you posted on our progress!!

Jessie's Actual Birthday!

2008-05-15T21:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, so Jessie's birthday was so fun. She got a new bike, and got lots of Hannah Montana loot from Holli and Lisa. We got to celebrate with Nanny and Grandpa, Grandma Great and lots of Aunts and cousins. We barbequed and got to celebrate Mother's day too. Surprised I remembered to post, me too!

2008-05-08T17:55:00.000-07:00

Hey! I decided to post Jessie's birthday early! We will be out of town this weekend and we all know if I don't do it now, I never will! Her birthday is actually the 13th, she will be 5. We are so lucky to have such a spunky outgoing kid. She is always laughing, smiling and entertaining everyone. We love you Jessie, Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday Jessie!

2008-05-08T17:27:00.001-07:00

2008-05-05T12:30:00.001-07:00

Spring in St. George

2008-05-01T18:39:00.000-07:00

Aerica's First Year of Volleyball

2008-05-01T18:22:00.003-07:00

Let's Catch Up, Starting with Halloween

2008-05-01T18:15:00.000-07:00

First Day of School 2007

2007-09-15T11:41:00.001-07:00

This was the first day of school for the kids, Aerica started 4th grade. She seems so grown up. Cy started 1st grade, and Jessie goes to the pre-school at the elementary. She has a classroom, and gets to ride the bus and everything. The kids were soooo excited.

2007-09-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

I am Horrible at keeping this up to date, but I am going to try to do better.

07/07/07

2007-07-15T22:13:00.000-07:00

7/7/07 was spent in Eden, Ut. It was great. When 7 is your lucky number, what's better than vacationing with your family for a triple 7 day. I did get bit by a spider, but hey, LUCKY for me it wasn't poisonous. We had fun at Pineview resevoir, and the kids had fun on the shore playing in the sand. Check out our pictures!

Cy Palmer, June 19, 2000. 7 going on 17

2007-06-28T16:36:00.000-07:00

For Cy's birthday he got an XBOX 360 from grandpa Drury, Chad says thank you too! He has been playing it non-stop. He also got a new fishing rod and reel, and a DVD, Night at the Museum. He also got $50 between the gift cards from all his grandmas. He is excited to spend it, but hasn't decided on what to buy yet. Cy is so interested in the how and why of everything. He's left-handed and one of a kind! He is so sweet and tenderhearted, yet rough and rowdy when he wants to be, especially when wrestling with Dad, his favorite thing to do. These are some random pictures from the past year.

Jessie Turned 4

2007-06-28T16:06:00.001-07:00