IT'S WEIGH IN TIME - LET'S GO LADIES

Alright ladies it's our first weigh-in, though if you ask me - this past week should be a practice week! LOL! But no matter what you did - lose a lot, a little, or stayed the same, I know we are all working hard. If you are like me you probably have some bad habits you're trying to break - dang those hot salty fries and the ice cold Dr. Pepper! If you didn't lose any weight this week, remember it's not a race, it's all about becoming healthier - changing how we eat and adding exercise to our routines. I really hope you will all check in with your progress. You don't have to tell us what you weigh, you can just tell us how much you lost. So, I'll start it of - I lost a big whopping total of....................... 1 lb. Woohooo! You girls really are beautiful - it's not about being skinny, it's about being healthy, for you and for your family. Don't give up - I slipped a couple times this past week, so my goal for this week is to slip up less and push myself a little more. I need to find a little more will power, but I can do it and I know you can to. Good luck to everyone and keep working hard!

CHILDREN SCRIPTURES ON LINE

I wanted to mention to you guys if you didn't know. When we were young we use to have the books for the scriptures that went with tapes, you listened to while you follow along with the books. We bought them for our kids and in one of our moves they got lost. Anyways on the church website, lds.org, they have them all online now. It's not the same as actually having the books that you can look at anytime, but it's still a wonderful resource. Also on the website, they mention that just released a new Nursery manual, that would also be a good resource for Family Home Evening if you have young children. It is also available on line. Take a look and see.

ENJOY THE JOURNEY

Meriah made this today for Tucker and I. She is always doing things like this for her family and friends. Breana had the craft box out and was working on a science project and Meriah must have gotten in there too and put this together for us. Tucker and I always marvel at how sweet and thoughtful she is. She is always worried about other people and their feelings. She is also the middle child and they always say it is hard being in the middle, but it doesn't seem to bother her at all.

I just loved Pres. Monson's talk today - he either said Enjoy the Journey Now or Find Joy in the Journey Now, now I can't remember exactly. But he talked about looking around at all the toys everywhere, piles of dishes and loads of laundry, and how they will disappear soon and we will miss them when they are gone. There are days when I think I'll never miss all this laundry - it never ends and then there are days when I do realize what the neverending pile of laundry means and I know that there will come a day when I look around and there are no toys to be found, all the dishes and laundry are done and put away and I will probably feel a little lonely and think the house is too quiet. I love the story the Pres. Monson told about the father taking his boys to the circus. My sister tells her husband the same thing - childhood - they aren't making anymore of it. You can't get those days back. We truely need to find Joy in the Journey - always looking for tomorrow will leave empty yesterdays.

Thank you, Meriah, for your kindness. You truely bring a light and a joy to our family and our home. We love you so much and are very proud of who you are.

I JUST LOVE HIM!!!

After 13 years I still just absolutely adore and love Tucker. He still suprises me and makes me smile and warms my heart. I love his work schedule, it seems to allow us to really spend time together. We both look forward to those days that he has off during the week, when it is us and the two little ones. We just love spending the day together when it is not so hectic and crazy. I can't imagine what those days will be like when all of the kids are in school and it's just the two of us. Yesterday, Tucker was off from work and we decided to go out to eat for lunch. While we were eating lunch he leans over to Emma and asks her if she wants to go pick up some flowers for Ms Gini. I had told him the night before how she had had a bad day that day. We got busy the next day and my mind was on a million other things, but he remembered our conversation the night before. (Okay, he actually listens somethimes, I'll have to give credit now) Anyways that's what we did after our lunch. He went and picked out the flowers himself, while I stayed in the car. He called me and asked me what kind of flowers to get and I just told him pick out something nice, which he did. We went over and had a really nice visit. We just absolutely love their family, we have know them for about 11 years. Anyways after that we then picked up the girls from school and came home. It got late and we hadn't done anything for dinner, so we decided to try a restaurant I had been told about. We went out for dinner and came home. Tucker promised the kids they could have some of his homemade carrot cake he made the night before, while I had been at my presidency meeting. And by the way, it is a very good carrot cake and it is not helping me with my goals. So after the kids were done, I was getting ready to put on my running shorts and shoes and Tukcer said I thought we would go get some ice cream and walk on the beach. We both are in love with the Thin Mint Cookie blizzards at Dairy Queen (not helping!) So, we put Emma to bed and told the kids that mom and dad were going for a moonlit stroll on the beach. Breana was grossed out and Meriah didn't believe that we were really going to do that, she thought we were tricking her and made us promise to take pictures for proof, that explains the pictures below. There was no moonlight, it was completely dark, but there was a really nice breeze and we both enjoyed walking, holding hands, and stopping occasionally for a kiss. ( I know, I know, TMI) But it was really nice. Tucker is so thoughtful and so sweet, though he probably doesn't want anyone to know that. Even after 13 years, he can make me feel like the little girl pictured above, by the way is from a card he got me. I just love this card and keep it in my bathroom where I see it everyday. Thank you, Sweetie, L.Y.F.E.

My Wake Up Call

So after being lazy and sleeping in late this morning, I heard my phone beeping. I checked it and had a message from Melissa. We are currently counting day the days until Breaking Dawn comes out, which we have decided that one way or another we will be seeing together. For Alissa, we are hoping that she will be able to come here and we can all see it together, if not my wonderful husband has offered to fly me out to Texas to see it with her. Anyways back to my story, she has figured out how many weeks until the movie comes out, which is 8 weeks counting this week. So she has decided since we both have gotten out of shape and put on a few pounds, she has worked out a plan for us over the next 8 weeks until. Our goal is to try to lose 2 lbs a week until then. She says the goal is 15lbs which is my goal also, so she says this gives us an extra pound if we cheat. I will probably need more than one extra pound for cheating and I don't know if I will be able to pull off 2 lbs every week, but I am going to give it a try and do what I can. We have decided that we will have a weigh in on Mondays, so we both checked out our weight and reported today. The reason why I am putting this on my blog is because I think this is going to be good. I have someone to report my progress to and they say that is one of the reasons why Weight Watchers works because you do it in a group and you have to report in on your progress. I had decided on Saturday I was going to start exercising again. So now we tell each other what we did for the day as well as talk about what we eat. I am going to try to post my progress here as well, maybe if I have somewhere else to be accountable for it that will help. If anyone else wants to join us let me know.

So today, I ran 2 miles. (okay I didn't run the whole time) I was thinking about Amanda's blog on running and I have a thought - How can I hear pitter patter of my sneakers hitting the pavement over the screaming in my head - WATER, OXYGEN, WATER, I am going to die out here and my family won't find me for a long time!!! Even the music from my ipod doesn't drown out the screaming. Okay I know I am a wimp, I am so out of shape which is why I am out here. They say it will get easier - so let's put it to the test and see if that's true. And I do have to say at some point I take my head phones out because the music and the screaming become too much noise and my head starts to hurt, or that could just be the lack of oxygen, anyways the quiet is nice and it gives me time to think, quiet time to think and reflect.

Caleb Get Another Haircut

Caleb has been asking me for a long time to cut his hair. He likes it spiked up. It was starting to look cute, getting long again. I really did not want to cut it. I know he looks cute with it short too, but I just love it long. It's kind of a gross picture of his hair on the counter, but when I cut it off, I can't get over how much hair he has for a little boy. Well my handsome man got his spikey hair. Even if I am biased - somethings are still true - he is just so extremely cute!

Family Visit

My brother, Scott, and his family came to visit us a couple of weeks ago. We really miss them so much. We had a great visit, but it was too short. We don't get to see them enough. We tried to take them to the beach, but it kept raining on us, thus the picture of the kids in the back of the van. If you look close enough you can see Emma's little head peeking from beyond the rest of the kids. We grilled out for Father's day while the kids went swimming. Hannah and Gage spent a couple of nights with us. We stayed up late playing games, our favorite was Clue. Then the kids sacked out all in the same room. The pictures of them all crowded together, 4 in one bed, is so funny. I don't know how they slept like that. I miss my family and I was so grateful they drove all the way down here to visit. Can't wait to see them again.

Too Much Wii

Lately, Caleb has really gotten into the Wii. He wants to play it as soon as he gets up in the morning and he would play it all day until it was bedtime it we would let him. Another reason why I like the pool, because it gets them outside. But what does it say when a little boy doesn't take a stuffed animal or his favorite blanket to bed, but the Wii controls. Its sad. I told him today that he might need an intervention.

Our Pool

We decided with the high gas prices we would try to keep our traveling down, but we wanted to keep the kids busy this summer, so we decided to buy an above ground pool. I would definitely say it was money well spent. The kids have been in it everyday, except for when it was raining. It's been nice. We are having a lot of fun. And Emma finally decided that she didn't need mommy or daddy holding her in the pool. She just decided one day that she could swim by herself with her water wings, and she has even tried a couple of times without them, but she didn't like that very much. I love summer, I love being with the kids.

Young Women's Camp

Breana went to her first Girl's Camp. She really seemed to have a good time. I took a few of the girls up there. I helped Breana get her cabin all set up - okay I was just looking for an excuse not to leave. I tried to hang out as long as I could. Tucker told me I couldn't follow her around at camp. Okay I did have a hard time leaving her there, realizing that my daughter was old enough to be going to Camp and that I was old enough to have a daughter old enough. But I also just have always loved Girls Camp. Anyways after a few tears I finally left. I am glad she had a good experience I can't wait for her to have more.

Husband Tag

Okay I have to say I was really trying to avoid this one, but after Niki and Kelly both tagged me, here I go, but I am treading softly here. Tucker and I have made it 13 years and I want to make it another 13!

1-What's her husband's full name? Tucker Andrew Hindman - if your curious about any nicknames he might have had growing up - BooTuck - his mom called him that. I absolutely loved and had hoped I would have a BooTuck of my own.

2-How long have the two of you been together? As of ths month, June, we have actually been together for 13 years. We spent almost 3 months of that apart while he was in Basic in Texas, which he left for shortly after we started dating, met it's all the same. He came home for a 10 day leave before he had to report to Ft. Hood and that is when we got married, Nov. 11, 1995

3-How long did you date? Here it goes - We started dating mid-June, he left for Basic in August and came home in November. So we actually dated for about two months before he left. Then we wrote each other all the time while he was at Ft. Benning. I wrote almost everyday.

4-Who eats more? I would have to say he does. He always eats after he has eaten dinner. When we first got married - he would have a bowl of cereal, ice cream, and yogurt after dinner. He still has cereal or ice cream or something. I don't know how he does it and still looks so good!

5-Who said, "I love you, first?" Well he is not here to ask and I can't remember exactly. I want to say it was me - but my memory isn't the same as it use to be. Okay I think I may remember - it was Tucker. I'll have to ask him if he remembers!

6-Who is taller? He is taller, but not as much taller as he would like to think.

7-Who sings better? - Hands down - I cannot sing at all! His mother can sing - I'm not saying that gene was carried on to her beautiful son, but he does sing better then me, but then again so does everyone.

8-Who is smarter? I use to feel smart, but after 5 kids I feel like the ditsiest person (see I'm not even sure if that is a word or if it is even spelled right). I am going back to school, so I am hoping if I start using my brain again, I can recover some of it! I am a true believer in brain shrinkage due to pregnancies. Tucker does know a lot of stuff, especially about History, which by the way was my major in college.

9-Who does the laundry? I would say that I do it more, but he does help out a lot. I just wish I could get some fabric softner in with my towels - is that too much to ask? I guess I shouldn't complain I am getting help.

10-Who does the dishes? Same as above - he really does help around the house. Now if you asked who cleans the floors more - Tucker actually wins hands down - he has a thing about dirty floors. I happy if we have clean clothes to wear and clean dishes to eat off of - what more do you need?

11-Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? This has changed as we have moved. In this house, I do. I sleep away from the door. And that has been kind of how it has always been, he always sleeps closest to the door - I guess for protection. I will tell you I read an article - where they did a survey and it showed that in houses with children, usually it is the mother, so the children will come bother her first! I sticking with I need protection!

12-Who pays the bills? This is sometimes an issue for us. I pay the bills and sometimes he doesn't like how I do it and I tell him he can gladly take over any time!

13-Who mows the lawn? He does. I have mowed our lawn one time! He has to start the lawn mower for me. It's this monster thing he got when he had his lawn business and I am a wimp and cannot get it started.

14-Who cooks dinner? We share this. If I had to pick who does it the most, I would say me, but he does really help out alot. I think he kind of likes to cook.

15-Who drives when you are together? He usually always drive. I have driven a few times, when he was just really tired, or he had something he had to do while we were driving. Even on long trips he drive almost all the way. I'll drive for a very short while so he can get a little rest. I use to could drive when I was younger. I could drive 8 or 10 hours no problem, sometimes even 12, but now 30 minutes in the car and I am falling asleep, and that doesn't even have to be driving, I could just be riding!

16-Who is more stubborn? Okay, okay I'll tell you that I am. Tucker would be the first one to tell you that too. But he does have a stubborn streak too. Always been that way, just ask my parents!

17-Who kissed who first? Oh my gosh-I waited and waited for him to make the first move. I was 22 and he was 18, I wasn't getting any younger! But I have to say, that I am really glad I did, otherwise he might of went off to Basic and things could have been different!

18-Who asked who out first? No one! In our case we never really actully dated! I came home from college for the summer. My stepbrother, Scott, came home from his dads for the summer before he left for Basic at Ft Benning, which is where Tucker was going to. Same date and everything. My step-mom and Tucker's mom were and are best friends and thought the two of them should meet. So the three of us hung out all summer until Tucker left for Basic. My brother ended up going home to marry his high school sweetheart.

19-Who proposed? I think I will skip this one. Our annivesary is coming up in November, I would like to make it then. It was so long ago! LOL! (Let's just say, I asked him if he was going to ask me!)

20-Who is more sensitive? I'm with Kelly on this one - do we even have to ask this one. I am hands down! I would like to think as I am growing older that I am getting less sensitive. My poor children have inherited this trait!

21-Who has more friends? I would say it is probably pretty close, but if we did an actualy count Tucker probably has more. He has lived here his whole life. Now if we are counting quality friends???

22-Who has more siblings? Okay this could get crazy. I have 2 brothers and 2 sisters and 2 step brothers (who technically aren't my step-brothers anymore, but they will always be brothers to me) Tucker has 1 sister, 1 step-brother and 2 step-sisters. So you do the math?

23-Who wears the pants in the family? I know this may sound corny but I really think we have a partnership. He takes the lead on somethings and I take the lead on others. (while other things we both just throw our hands up and shake our heads)

Alright - I did it and it wasn't too bad. Hope I didn't embarass Tucker or myself too much. I do have to say I love Tucker so much and he is a absolutely wonderful husband and father and I feel so blessed to be on this journey with him! Sorry about the mushiness! Now let's see who I can tag - Lara, Alyssa, Kelli, and Amanda. Let's learn a little more about those men of yours!

Welcome to Summer!!!

I know I'm late but I would like to officially say It is Summer - even if technically it is not until June 19th. For me summer starts as soon as the kids get out of school. I absolutely love summer and being able to spend time with the kids in a laid back atmosphere - no rushing to get homework done, no getting up early and getting ready for school. We go to bed when we want and get up when we want for the most part. And we try to play as much as we can. We had such a blast last summer and I am looking forward to another summer of some good quality family time. The girls did good in school as usual. We are still waiting for Breana's report card to be mailed home but we know she did well. Meriah finished the year out by getting Osprey Student of the Month which is an award given to student for Academic and Character Excellence. Meriah also got an E in Math on her report card which is great. They do not give out Es too often because it means the student is doing everything well and is above grade level expectations. In Kindergartin through Second grade, they are on a E, S, P, N scale. Which means above, at grade level, needs improvement. Regan scored 4s on both her Reading and Math FCATs. Awesome job. Breana got a medal for Language Arts award. It was her and another girl. Her teacher said that she made sure she got both girls autographs before the left 6th grade, because someday they are going to be famous writers. Breana loves to write and she is very creative. I am so proud of all of my girls. So we are off to a great start for summer and are looking to have some fun. It always goes by too fast, we just try to enjoy it while it is here. Hope everyone has a great summer!

Author's Tea Party

I know I am so far behind in my posts. I probably have quite a few things to post about, but I should have put this one up sooner, so you can all have a good laugh. One of the teachers at school told me not to miss Meriah's Author Tea Party because I would want to hear her book. Oh, how I wish she would have given me a little more warning then that. Kids say the darnest things!!!

Chuck E Cheese's

We went to Chuck E Cheese the other day with Melissa and the kids. we were watching Kevin and got to bring him along for the fun. Tucker even got to join us - I'm sure it was just what he wanted to do on his day off. The kids had fun as usual. They went through their tickets in no time but then they are just as happy to run around and play with each other. Kevin was our big ticket winner, playing Slam A Wham, winning 50 tickets! Yeah. Melissa and Tucker had a friendly competition going on the Basketball hoops. I won't tell you who won, because I don't want his ego bruised because he was beaten by a girl! And don't ask him around the Race Cars either! I shouldn't give him a hard time, he is always up for hanging out with the kids and doing things with them, even if it means being surrounded by a bunch of moms. He is really a great dad!

Our Bed???

Night after night

After night

After night

This little monster creeps into our room with a big 'ol grin on his face. He either tells us that he is a little boy and its scary or he tries to sweeten us up by saying mommy daddy you're the best. He doesn't even wait for us to respond, he climbs right up in bed and gets the cold blanket. Caleb decides blankets are either hot or cold ones. He thinks the green sheet is the cold blanket and that is the only one he likes to slepp with and then our other blanket he says is a hot one and he doesn't like it. Trying having that in the middle of the two of you. He keeps kicking of the "Hot One" that the two of you are trying to use. How did our 4th child end up in our bed? Okay don't answer that - I know. We let him wrap up around his little finger - but who could resist the "I'm just a wittle boy and its scary!" He usually falls asleep pretty fast and then Tucker carries him and puts him to bed, but sometimes then between 2 and 4 he comes back. I guess I have my summer cut out for me. Emma will be 2 and she will be needing to leave the crib behind and Caleb will be moved back to his room by himself. That will be interesting.

Blonde or What???

This is a joke my kids told me the other day:

3 girls went to a Magical Mirror. The mirror told them that each of them had to tell the mirror something and if it was true they would be granted a wish and if it wasn't true they would be sucked up by the mirror. The brunette went first, "I think I am the prettiest girl in town." She was sucked up by the mirror. The red head went next, "I think I am the prettiest girl in the neighborhood." She was sucked up. The blonde walked up to mirror and she said, "I think..." She was immediately sucked up by the mirror.

Are my girls trying to tell me something???

I am always telling stories on my poor husband. (Even though as funny as they may be - I shouldn't always share so much information with our friends.) So I will tell on myself and oh trust me there are so many to choose from. So many of our friends have come to my rescue with my numberous outings that ended with me being stranded by the side of road with lack of gas. Yes I know what the E on the gauge means. I have such an aversion to the high prices, but after I have had to call almost everyone to bail me out - simple embarrassment starting winning out and I tried not to press my luck as much. I would say ended my road side events but it hasn't completely. I have run out two times in the past couple of months, luckily I just had to be embarrassed with my own husband. He has even given up getting mad at me. He just shakes his head and makes jokes now. He brings his A.R.C. (Abby's Rescue Can) to my rescue. I can hear you now, Marty - I know I know - all those city planners working so hard to strategically place all those Gas Stations on every corner. How do I drive past all of them and never give them a second glance? I said I would tell a humorous story and this one is probably losing its humor.

So today, I woke up this morning and I was so tired and for a second thought about just sleeping in, but it is Sunday and I didn't want to miss church. so I made myself get up after hitting the snooze button a few times too many. I was running late as usual. I start buckling the kids in the car and realize Emma has been playing with the water on the refrigerator door again and the whole front of her was completely soaked. I grab my keys and run back inside to get another dress. I threw my keys on the counter, ran and grab a dress and ran out the door. Leaving my keys on the counter. I called my dad who has lost my spare key. I called Melissa who comes over and tries to break into my house for me, with no luck. So Dave and Steve leave church to come help me out. A few seconds later with help from a hammer and screwdriver I am back in my house. Thank you!

I swear I feel like I am always forgetting little things these days. I feel more blonder these days then I did when I was younger. So hopefully my family will continue to have a sense of humor and bear patience with me. Can you imagine what I will be like when I am 80?!?! Poor Tucker!!!

Cool Kids or What???

We were at the pool the other day. All the kids put on sunglasses and they thought they were so cool. Okay they are cool!

Mother's Day

I know it's a little late, but I wanted to say thank you to all the mother's in my life for the graceful examples and wonderful advice. My mom always gave me her time and company when I was young. She always made sure to spend time with us kids. She taught me that an education was important and you had to set goals and work hard to achieve them. She use her talents to improve and brighten our lives. One thing I remember most was every Easter my mother made my older sister and me our dresses. I look forward every Easter to those dresses and I don't think I let my mother know how much I loved those dresses, because I remember when I was about 10 or 11 she was bought me a dress thinking I would be so happy and excited about a store bought dress. It was a beautiful yellow dress but it never could compare to those dresses my mother made us. She spent so much time with us, teaching us and loving us and making sure our home was a place we always felt love and secured. I would like to thank Terry who got me through my teen years. Nothing like inheriting a teen girl, emotions, drama, and all. She got me through fights with my friends and boys who broke my heart. She use to laugh when I thought I was too old to go out and be seen in public with my parents or I just couldn't get my hair or clothes right. I hope I will remember that because I am becoming a mother of a teen daughter myself. She shared her testimony with me so many times even when she didn't know she was. She accepted me and loved me and didn't let me get away with things I shouldn't. I also have to thank Kathy, Tucker's mom, who has become another mother to me. She is always so graceful, kind, and loving in all she does or says. She always finds the positive or good in any situation or person. She shares her love and warmth with me and my children. She raised a beautiful son who became a loving husband and a wonderful father. I can never thank her enough for all she has done for my family. All of the mothers have helped me to become or strive to become the kind of mother I am. I love each and everyone one of them and feel so blessed to have them in my life. I would like to thank my husband and children for making my Mother's Day so special. They woke me up with breakfast and took care of me all day. I got my books the next 2 in the Twilight series which I have finished already. Meriah made sure that I got my snuggly blanket so I don't have to steal hers anymore. Though Meriah loves to share her blanket she just thought I should have my own. I love Mother's Day because it reminds me to think about my mothers and it also reminds me just how much Heavenly Father has blessed me and my life with these beautiful children. They truly make up and complete our family. I couldn't imagine my life without anyone of them. They each bring unique characteristics and individual personalities to our family and make it a complete package. Love you all!

Twilight

I just recently read this book. I really enjoyed it! It was an easy read as well as a great page turner. I read it in two days. I can't wait to read the next in the series. So many people had recommended this book. It has been such a long time since I have read anything, because if I can't get into it right away I won't keep reading. This book is probably meant more for Young Adults but I really enjoyed. The next is New Moon and doesn't come out in paperback until the end of the month and I am fighting the urge to not run out and buy the hardcover. This is a 4 series book. The third is Eclispe also out and the 4th is Breaking Dawn, which is due out August 2nd. The author Stephenie Meyer is Mormon, so it's nice to read a book that you don't have to worry about coming across things you might not want to read. She is coming out with her first adult novel tomorrow, May 6th, called The Host. Now I am trying to decide which do I do first continue reading the series or go ahead and read this one. I am glad I read this book, it has gotten me excited about reading again, though I am not sure Tucker would agree. I had my nose buried in the book for 2 days, but at least it ws only for 2 days! I would definitely recommend it!

Wannado City

Regan had a field trip at school last week. They went to Wannado City. It is a really neat place. When they got off the bus the were giving $150 in Wannado money. Then when you go inside you get to try out all different kinds of jobs and earn more money and then you can spend it on the "fun activities". They have rock climbing and a little fair and other things. It is really neat. They have pilot academy, casting calls, modeling, radio and tv stations, archeaology, vet, fire dept, police dept, hospitial with surgery, er, and nursery, cookery where you make your own cookie, pizzeria-make your own pizza, salon, bank, courthouse, grocery store which is actually a Publix, coca cola bottling, and a Willy Wonka factory, which the kids really wanted to do but the line was forever long. There were so many things to try. We had 4 kids in our group, 2 boys and 2 girls which made it kind of hard because they wanted to do different things. So we didn't get to do all the things we wanted. But it is really neat the kids got to put on work clothes and try different jobs. The first things the kids did when we got there was go to the bank and put some of their money and the bank and then get a bank card. They loved being able to go to the ATMs and use their cards and get money out. We had alot of fun and I am glad I was able to go with Regan. I'd like to go back and take the family.

Congratulations on Making Honor Roll

Congratulations to Breana and Regan on making Honor Roll again. They have worked really hard all year long. They always make Honor Roll and I am so very proud of them. Love you girls and keep up the good work.

Visit from Good Friends

Visit from our Friends

Niki, Brad, and the kids came last weekend. It was so nice to be able to visit them. We really miss them. We all got together for dinner and hung out like old times, it was really nice. Meriah and Owen played bowling on the Wii. It was the funniest thing. It's hard to see from the video, I've been using my old camera which the batteries were dying, so it's not very good. But it was the funniest thing. We couldn't stop laughing. Meanwhile Caleb and Alex played together in another room. They played together so well. The girls dressed Kate up in Princess clothes and she looked so cute. Niki and I tried to get pictures but both our cameras had dying batteries. In the beginning of the evening we must of had about 10 kids out on the trampoline it was so funny. I was just waiting for someone to get hurt but luckily no one did. We had a good time and can't wait to visit them next.

Picking Strawberries

We had been wanting to go pick strawberries during Spring Break, but we were so busy and never got around to it, so we decided we would go today. Every summer when we go visit my sister, she always has homemade strawberry freezer jam and we absolutely love it and always look forward to it. We have been wanting for a long time to try to make it ourselves, so today we made our first attempt and we will know tomorrow if it turned out. The kids had a lot of fun. The Strawberry Farm seemed to be real kid friendly. They gave all the kids their own little basket to collect the strawberries and they even got their own little pair of scissors. The kids were so excited but try controlling several kids and what kind of strawberries they are picking. It was fun though. The kids had a blast. Later we made our strawberry jam which the kids really got into. I hope it taste good because we all have really been looking forward to it.

Painting Pottery

Yesterday Melissa and I took the kids to this Ceramic place. We joined by Alissa and Kelli and and their crews. I think the kids had a lot of fun. It was a cute place and they had a lot for the kids to choose from. Caleb picked out a dinosaur and Emma got a butterfly. I'll have to take the older girls there, they would absolutely love it. I am always looking for things to do with the kids and there are really a whole lot of options around it. Alissa had told us about this place. So if there is anyone who knows of any other great places or things to do with little children let me know. After painting we went to Chik-fil-A for lunch. Here's a little hint Melissa gave me - if you leave the kids meal toy wrapped you can trade it in for an Ice Cream cone. I never knew that. So after the kids ate lunch - we got them ice cream. It was funny because we lost 3 of the ice cream cones - 2 thanks to Emma who got very upset when her ice cream fell out of her cone. The kids had a nice time and I think we will definitely go back there again.

Breana & Regan's Haircuts

Breana has been wanting to cut off her hair for Locks of Love ever since I did it and we finally got around to it. We were going to make it a mommy and me day for just the two of us, but then she wanted to know if Regan could come. That is very rare so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to let her include her sister. So the three of us took off today to have some fun and Regan decided she would even cut her hair today, which totally shocked me because she absolutley loves her long hair. We took off to the mall and ate lunch and then went and got the haircuts. I was sick to my stomach because I was afraid after they got their hair cut and saw that they might not like it and get upset. I was so afraid! But they both really turned out so cute and they both absolutley love their new looks and they feel really good about being able to help other kids out. They both cut off a little more than 12 inches and once again my girls look like me! We went shopping later and instead of clothes they ended up getting Webkinz and for those of you who don't know what they are. They are little stuffed animals with secret codes to log onto this Webkinz website and you get to take care of them and even design bedrooms and all kinds of things for them, so I guess the two of them will be fighting to get onto the computer! But all in all it was a really nice day spent with my girls. We all had a really good time!

SWIMMING

We went swimming today. It was a perfect day. The water was a little cold, but it was hot so you didn't mind getting it. A few notes - I did not intentionally leave Breana out - she was not able to join us. She got into a little mischief right before we left. Nothing like a little sibling squabbling to bring a family together. Also you never really see me in pictures because I am behind the camera. My kids will never know what I looked like when I was younger - whether that is good or bad remains to be seen. But I am actually in a few of the photos - if you look closely you will see my big toe in the way. That's because I am such a great photographer with some mad skills!!! Really the sun was so bright I couldn't really see. We have tried to do alot with the kids and spend time togehter as a family this Spring Break even though we didn't go anywhere and I have to say - I think we are all really enjoying a little vacation at home and hate to see it end. I am really looking forward to summer. As Breana gets older, I realize she will be leaving home before long and I really need to take in these moments.

Our Rainbow

The other day - Tucker was grilling out for us. He came inside and told us there was a big rainbow outside. All the kids took off running to see it. It was big and so clear, probably can't tell from pictures because I am using my old camera, I broke my new one. (Well a combination of Tucker and I dropping one time too many.) Anyways it the rainbow seemed so close to our house. It spread across right over the street and looked like it right behind our neighbors house. The kids always get to excited to see rainbows. The love the really clear ones where you can see all the colors. It was beautiful!

A Day at the Beach

We went to the beach today and it was a beautiful day, even though it was a little windy. The wind made it cold when you came out of the water so they kids didn't play a whole lot in the water but they still had a lot of fun.

And by the way a Happy Birthday to my big sis, Margaret!

Emma's Outfit

Okay - I have been wanting to try out their poll and yesterday I was presented with a perfect opportunity. We were getting ready to leave yesterday and I went and got Emma dressed. I thought she looked so cute but it seems that the rest of my family disagreed with me. Tucker thought the top was hideous and Brean did not like the bottoms. They kept threatening to change her but they knew if they did it wasn't going to be pretty and no one really wants to upset Momma over Spring Break so we left the house with Emma dressed as she was and me still thinking she looked cute. So if you guys take a look over on the right you will see my poll and you can tell our family what you think of Emma's outfit. Give it a try - this should be fun!

Playing at the Fountains

We went to the Fountains the other day. It was an absolutely lovely day but the breeze was a bit much for the fountains, it kept it a little too cool for the kids to really enjoy the water. Regan and Meriah decided to brave it anyways and they had a blast and they played so nicely together. It was nice to see them get along. Breana and Caleb did not want to get in the water. They enjoyed laying out on towels in the sun. Emma finally got brave and would played in the water when the fountains were low. She was so cute trying to catch the water and she even made a little friend who about the same age. They kept running around trying to catch the little spouts of water. I love this weather, when it is sunny but you a little breeze that keeps it cools. So far we are having a lot of fun on our Spring Break.

First Night of Spring Break

Our very first night of Spring Break we stayed up very late playing Super Mario Galaxy on their WII. Caleb did not make it and just as we stopped Meriah passed out in the rocking chair. Breana, Regan, and our went on to our beds. Needless to say we all slept in until late. Tucker got home in the morning and the girls all jumped out of their beds to tell him how Momma let them stay up late playing Mario, unfortunately even Momma has gotten hooked on the game and I have to fight to get my turn. But we are all having fun.

Happy Easter

We had a very busy Easter this year. Saturday we met the Wolfes at the park for a morning Easter Egg Hunt. The later in the day we went over to the Stoddards, grilled out and had another Easter Egg in the sprinkling rain, but the kids still enjoyed it. Sunday we went to church and afterwards we went to Tucker's parents house for lunch and our 3rd Easter egg hunt with our counsins and friends. This is the first year that Emma really got into finding the eggs, but all she really cared about was the candy inside. She finds her first egg and wants to open it and eat the candy right away. At Mike and Kathy's house, Caleb was so funny, because we hid our colored eggs along with the plastic ones. Caleb picked up one of the hard boiled eggs, looked at, then he shook it and listened. He was a little annoyed, he says, there's no candy in this one and he throws it down on the ground. It was so funny, he wouldn't put any of the colored eggs in his basket. Later we had dinner with my dad and Maggie. Overall it was a really nice Easter, spent with a lot of family and friends. We are so blessed!

ST BALDRICK'S DAY

Today is not only St Patricks Day but for us it is also St Baldricks Day. It was started by an organization to raise money to help fight childhood cancer. The idea is not only to raise money but to show the kids support by shaving your head. So every year Tucker participates and we like to go as a family and support him. It is really a great idea and a great cause. The kids had fun. They got their hair painted green by a leprechaun. A lot of the firefighter participate. It's really neat to see everyone walking around bald.

Today is also my brother's birthday and I would like to wish him a Happy Birthday!

Horton Hears A Who!

I read this book when I was younger so I was excited to take the kids to see. It is very and I mean very rare that we take all 5 kids to the movie at once. Melissa called me up and said they were taking their kids and wanted to see if we wanted to go. Tucker was at work, so me and the crew decided to go ahead and go and I'm sure if you asked Tucker he would tell you that he wasn't too upset about missing the movie. It was the funniest sight - a total of 8 kids, practically took up the whole row. And probably not very smart - we let the kids all sit together while the 3 adults sat together on the end, but to our suprise the kids were actually really good. They really seemed to enjoy the movie. It was cute with some funny parts, and some odd parts but overall it was a cute movie. If you ask any of my kids what their favorite part what - this is it - Horton and his friends are talking about what it would be like if they had their own worlds and one of them said her world would be all ponies who eat rainbows and poop butterflies!!! (I told you a little odd in parts. LOL!) It was a cute movie - now I am going to see if I can find the book for the kids to have - though I think they will be dissappointed because as far as I can remember that was not in the book! We had a good time and made me think maybe they are getting better or older to take them all to the movies - we just to take out a second mortgage when we all want to go! No it wasn't too bad!

Time at the Park

We went to the Park last Saturday. The weather has been so nice that we have been spending a lot of time out doors. I love this weather. We had so much fun. We tried to fly a kite, perfect weather for kite, but not a very good kite. I'll have to get them a better kite. The kids had fun trying anyways.

Fun in the Sun

We went to the beach today. We had a blast. The water was a little cold but you could get use to it, if it wasn't for the crabs nipping at your toes. There were little crapbs everywhere and after Melissa got bit, the kids wouldn't get in the water very much. But it was a beautiful day. They played in the sands and then we fed the birds. Once we brought out the food they starting swarming us. You could hold a chip up and they would come and get it right out of our hands. After that Melissa and I decided to be brave and try to catch a crab for the kids. She managed to catch two. The kids thought they were so cool, they didn't want us to put them back in the water. It was such a perfect day.

A Day at the Zoo

We went to the zoo yesterday. We didn't get too many pictures becaused it rained on us the whole time. It kind of stunk. We didn't see too many animals as they were all looking for shelter to stay dry. We didn't see too many and animals and we started to get a little cold as the more we got soaked, but it gives us an excuse to go back another day. The highlight was seeing a white alligator, which was pretty neat.

Disney World

We went to Disney on Valentine's Day with my sister, Margaret and her family. I don't have that many pics because my batteries died right after we got there. The weather had been warm before my sister got here and the morning we woke to go it had gotten cold and we weren't really dressed for it, but we still had a good time. The lines were short and we got to do almost everything we wanted, but we did not ride Thunder Mountain but we ran out of time. The kids favorite was the Buzz Lightyear ride where you get to shoot things and the RaceTrak. I rode with Meriah who drove our car. I laughed so hard and we both got whiplash. They added Captain Jack Sparrow the Pirates of Caribbean ride and the likeness was uncanny. It was cool. We really enjoyed being able to go Margaret and her family. Caleb just loved his cousin, Grace. He followed her everywhere and wanted to go on all the rides with her. I wish we were albe to live close to each other so the kids could grow up together. Overall, even though I was a little chilly it was a really nice day.

Breana's History Fair Project

Breana was learning about conflicts and compromise in History, around World War II. So after she finally narrowed her topic down, she picked Rosie the Riveter. She did a really good job on her project and it turned out well.

Happy Birthday to Our Friends

Happy Birthday to Brennan, Connor, and Taylor!!! We had a blast at their birthday party. It was a nice day and perfect weather. Emma could not get enough of the snow cones!!! Regan was such a good big sister and kept making them for her. Thanks for the fun time!!!

My 35th Birthday

Last month I turned 35!!! I know I know. I'm getting old. But this year I decied to embrace my age, so I decided I needed a new look. Little did I know, my wonderful husband had a suprise in store for me. He got home from work in the morning of my birthday. He woke me up and told me to get in the shower and not to worry about my hair or my make-up. I had to be ready in 20 minutes, because Melissa was on her way to pick me up. They had planned a whole day for me. Melissa and I got manicures and pedicures. Then we went and got haircuts. I caught off 17 inches and it will be going to Locks of Love. By the way one of the stylists said I have style now! It's nice to be told you didn't really have any style!!! Melissa and I just laughed. Melissa had set up a make-up consulting appointment for me with Clinique. That was probably way over due since I have been doing my make-up the same way for about the last 15 years. Then I went shopping for a new outfit for my birthday dinner. Tucker had dinner reservations at Ruth's Chris steakhouse for me and some of our friends. They have the best steaks you will ever have. It was a really nice dinner. I had an absolutely wonderful birthday. Tucker did an awesome job and he really suprised me. I have to say it was one of the best birthdays ever if not the best! Thank you to my wonderful, thoughtful husband, whom I love so much.

Caleb's Haircut for His 3rd Birthday

Caleb turned 3 on Dec 28th. He had been asking me for a couple of weeks to cut his hair like Daddy's. Tucker had been wanting me to cut his hair as well. I really really did not want to. I love his hair long, I love his little surfer boy look. After it was cut, both Tucker and Caleb liked it. I cried. I'm not ready for him to be growing up. Everyone likes it. Caleb is always asking us to spike his hair. It is cute, but it makes him look so different and older and I still miss his longer hair and I just might see if I can get away with letting it grow back out.

Christmas

I'm a little late, gotten behind with my postings but hopefully I'm getting caught up now. We had a wonderful Christmas. I ljust love the holidays. I love Thanksgiving and Christmas, there's just something in the air. I love spending time with family and friends. We miss all our family and friends that we are not able to be with, but they are always in our hearts and thoughts.

Trains

This has become part of our Christmas Tradition. There are two families who lived beside each other and have these really awesome train tracks in their back yards and at Christmas they open it up to the public. So the past couple of years we gather with some of our friends, grab the hot cocoa (even if it isn't cold outside) and take off to see the trains. When you first get there they have a whole Bethlehem scene set up and it is beautiful. They use Christmas lights as the back drop and when you put on these 3D glasses they have, it makes the lights twinkle and move and it is beautiful. Then you walk in the backyard and there are two train set ups. One with older looking trains, more antique and the other is more modern. We just absolutely love going there and usually during Christmas we end up making a couple of trips. It is so enjoyable to go with some very dear friends. And as I am writing about this now, a couple of months past Christmas - this particular trip from last Christmas means even more. There are two families who went with us that are moving. They have become very dears friends and we have enjoyed sharing our lives with them. We will miss the Wildes and the Campbells so much. They mean the world to us and we think so highly of both of these families, but I have a feeling that good things are in store for them. Good Luck and Best Wishes and you guys better keep in touch. We were and are so blessed to call you friends, but more then that we feel like you guys are family.

Remembering Pres Gordon B Hinckley

Today was the funeral service for Pres. Gordon B Hinckley. It was very moving and inspiring. I have always loved Pres Hinckley. To me he radiated love and kindness. He truely loved everyone he met and even those he didn't. He was truely a prophet of God. Through him it was evident that our Heavenly Father loves us and that he holds us in his hands. He sent a wonderful man to lead His church and he will be missed by many. I always enjoyed watching him speak. I loved the fact the he had a wonderful sense of humor. I heard his daughters talk about their parents at a Time Out for Women conference and you could not deny how much their parents loved them and how much they loved their parents. On top of the many things that Pres Hinckley inspired to change in my life or to reach for, both him and his wife inspired me to be a better parent. I am thankful for having him as a prophet, he strengthened my personal testimony as well as many others. He did so many amazing things for the church and has left a wonderful legacy. He truly was a disciple of Christ and set a wonderful example and made us want to be better "to stand a little taller." Heavenly Father loves us and wants what is best for us and He will have His church led by the righteous. It is exciting to see what is coming next. As Pres. Hinckely said, "the best is yet to come." I am so thankful for my membership in the church and all the blessings my family and I have recieved by living the gospel. I believe the church is true and I believe we will be led by a living prophet who is guided by Heavenly Father. Pres. Hinckely was always challenging us to read the Book of Mormon. Our family has taken that challenge, even though it is taking us a while, we keep trekking on. I want my children to have read it and to pray about the truthfulness of it, to use it in their lives. As someone said during the service today - thank you to the Hinckley family for their great sacrifice of their time with their father, grandfather, or great grandfather so that he could carry out Heavenly Father's work. We were truely blessed by a great man, "a giant among men." http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MvB3z2U8DEo

Playmobil

Playmobil Land is the place where they have all the different set ups and the kids can go in and play with everything. They love it, even the big kids. They can spend forever in there. This trip we went with the Wolfes, it's always more fun when you are with friends.

Emma

Emma just loves being outside and I love watching her. She is growing and changing so fast, it makes me sad. I love to see her little personality come out, but I don't like seeing her growing up. When they say it's hard being the baby of the family, I think it is really only hard on the mother. And even if I am a little biased I swear she just gets more and more beautiful.

Caleb's November Haircut

This was just the beginning of Caleb's Haircut. I hated to cut his hair. I just absolutely love the surfer look on him and he has such beautiful hair. I love his hair and I guess I am not ready for him to grow up. You will see in another post just how short his hair gets. I can't believe. Isn't he just as cute as can be!!!

Fall Festival

I am trying to catch up on all the events from the past couple of months. The girls school had a Fall Festival in November. Last year they did it during Spring. It was a lot of fun. All the different classes run their own booths to raise money. They also bring in a ton of different bounce houses for free. They kids always have so much fun. The weather was perfect. It was a really nice day.

My Favorites Moments Are These

I haven't been on my blog in a long time. I am way behind since the Holidays and hope to catch up soon. We've had Christmas, went camping on New Year's Eve and Caleb got his FIRST real BIG BOY haircut. Tucker and him just love it. I went to take pictures of it and I dropped my digital camera and it broke, so as soon as I can I will put pictures up. You won't recognize him he looks so much older which is why I'm not too big on it even if he looks just as cute as can be. I am not ready for my baby boy to grow up, but he has turned 3. So here is a belated Happy Birthday to my favorite son, (I can say that!) who brings his dad and I constant joy. Breana had a Winter Band Concert, Meriah was in a Christmas presentation at school, and Regan was the angel in the Christmas pageant at church. We have been quite busy here. Tucker was taking a class to become an driver, of the fire engine, which he passed with flying colors and takes the test at work this month, they will have open spots in February and he is hoping to be able to move over to the Engine and bid a fond farewell to the Rescue Truck, which as you civilians refer to as the Ambulance. We have had a wonderful holiday and I have many pictures to get up on the blog and when I have time I hope to be able to do that soon.

But now the point of why I am even on my blog today. I was blessed to have a day that truly reminded me of why I love being a mother. It was a simple day, but often we forget to take time to have these days and to truly take in the moment and enjoy it for what it is and not worry about all the chores we have waiting for us at home. Melissa and I took off to the gym this morning, with kids in tow. We worked out for about an hour and a half and she said she was heading over to the field at Traditions with the kids and a football and wanted to know if we wanted to join them. It was an absolutely beautiful day, so I couldn't say no. As soon as we got there the kids jumped out of the car, took off their shoes and ran barefoot across the grass. We sat down and enjoyed a few snacks before we got down to the business of playing football! We had a blast throwing the ball, chasing after each other and tackling the kids down to the ground with lots of tickling and laughter. The kids had a few rough tackles of their own, a few little tears, but they got back up, dusted themselves off and took off running to score a touchdown. Connor and Caleb were enjoying their own touchdown dance victories. The kids had us spin them around and around, and as I get older I find it takes me longer to recover from getting dizzy. We just really enjoyed oursleves and the day. We were across the street from the fountains and Melissa asked if I wanted to take the kids over and let them get wet. We weren't really prepared, no towels or extra change of clothes, but I was realizing that these are the moments to cherish and that we don't stop often enough to truly have or enjoy these moments and also children grow up fast and these opportunities won't be around for long, so we headed over to the fountains. We stripped the kids down to their shorts and let them in the water. But even that wasn't enough. We usually just sit and watch them play, but today we played with them, running in and out of the fountains and leaping over them before they got too high and ducking under those that already were high. We all were laughing and enjoying spending time with each other.

We do things with our kids a lot. But I think alot of times we just sit on the sideline and watch them. And it is nice to watch your child running around and having a good time and we get enjoyment out of that. Then there are times we are looking at our watches because we have shopping, washing, or cooking that has to be done. My sister says "Childhood they aren't making any more of it!" Our children just continue to grow up and we can never go back to the days when they were young. You can never get those days or moments back. There will always dishes to wash, clothes to clean, floors to sweep, and dinners to be cooked, but your child won't always be 2 or 3 or so on. They will grow up and leave home. I feel so blessed to be reminded of this today and I want to take the time to truly enjoy my children while they still want to spend time with me. It was a beautiful day with beautiful children and even a beautiful friend who I want to thank for inviting to come along today. She is a great mother who loves her children and loves spending time with them.