The Thomas Family

Dorothy's Baptism!

2012-02-08T16:47:00.000-08:00

It was such a special day and Dorothy loved every second of it. I spend half the week and all night getting all the food ready to make it special. We are so proud of Dorothy and her decision to be baptized, she has set such a wonderful example for her younger siblings. The bishop told us how smart and well prepared for baptism she was and I know it's because all of her cousins examples and the many FHE lessons we have had about baptism. It was a very spiritual day and we feel so blessed!

All dressed in her new dress and ready for her special day!

Dressed and ready to go!

James and Dorothy ready for her baptism!

The towel with her name embroidered from the Primary!

So much family support thanks to all who came!!

The girls (James was chasing Preston down for the family picture!)

The best family picture we could get (all the others Preston was giving the camera the stink eye!) Preston and Violet really wanted to go play with cousins and did not want to take pictures!

Our big girl, Dorothy we are soooo proud of you!

BIG NEWS!!!

2012-02-06T07:23:00.000-08:00

The Thomas family is launching 4.0 due for release 7/24/12

At week 16 I am craving everything and feel blessed to be through the nausea because throwing up in public bathrooms will go down as one of the worst experiences of this pregnancy! Zofran is not a miracle drug but did help. We are VERY excited about this new addition... will we find out the sex of the baby? Undecided I love the surprise of it but Preston may need to know what it is this time because he REALLY wants a boy. I will let you know!

* I did not have an ultrasound picture so you get this;)!*

Date Night!

2012-02-04T16:47:00.000-08:00

Last week we were lucky enough to get some tickets to the Jazz game from Evan and Kelly. We are always so excited to get tickets from them because they are such awesome seats! We left for the game and stopped for dinner at Zupas. Of course I had to get my Red Mango fro-yo during halftime so the game ended up being a complete success- oh yeah and the Jazz won!!

At the game Jazz VS Blazers

After the game in front of the Energy Solutions Arena!

Alice in Wonderland!

2012-01-31T07:05:00.000-08:00

Lifehouse put on Alice in Wonderland for the Winter ballet, Dorothy was part of the Caterpillar train. The ballet was beyond cute and all of the girls did such a wonderful job! I am so happy with this dance studio and can't wait till Violet starts next year!

Ready to go!

Dancing!

Dancing with Alice and the White rabbit!

All the performers!

Fan club!

A tea party!

2012-01-30T06:50:00.000-08:00

For Violet's 3rd birthday she wanted to have a tea party. So we invited 8 little girls from her nursery class and cousins and asked all the girls to come dressed in princess attire. They played games, danced, had a tea party, had cake and opened presents. It turned out great and Violet loved every second of it!

Set up and ready for the party!

Ready for her guests!

Her tea party cake!

I think my smile stems from finishing making that darn cake!

Cake

Opening presents!

After the party! Preston dressed up as The Mad Hatter because it was a tea party!

The party was a HOOT!

2012-01-27T08:39:00.000-08:00

For Dorothy's party this year she wanted to have a 'late night' so we invited all the girls over from 6-9 for pizza, tons of candy and a movie. They all came in pj's so it felt like it was late, we got carried away and ended up with 25 girls but they had such a good time I would do it again!

Ready for the party!

The candy bar Dorothy insisted on having! I think the kids all went home sick!

Before all dressed and ready!

The boys who *suffered* through the madness!

Watching 'Enchanted'

Opening presents!

I still can't believe she is 8!!!

Of course we went with the owl theme for the late night!!!

Girls Retreat!

2012-01-27T08:22:00.000-08:00

A few weekends ago I went away for the annual girls retreat, this was my 3 year going and it's something I look forward to all year! We stayed up WAAAAY too late, did some digital scrapbooking (almost done with baby books!) watched movies, went running (which is one of my favorite things to do!) and went hot tubbing.

The group!

Too many ladies in one hot tub!

This is after of 3 nights of no sleep, I am looking super!

New Year's Eve!

2012-01-16T15:07:00.000-08:00

*I know I am a little behind, but I have been out of town (for the annual girl's retreat) and then got the barf flu:(!!* We celebrated New Year's in style, we enjoyed ribs from Texas Roadhouse (best ribs EVER) and had chocolate fondue for dessert! The guys spent the night playing Pandemic and other board games and the girls sat around talking.

Conrad's tradition of taking two horns and blowing them as loudly as possible!

Choco monster Kyra (with her rice milk chocolate!)

Our anniversary getaway!

2012-01-16T14:45:00.000-08:00

We went up to SLC and spent the night in The Grand America hotel for our anniversary. It was quick but totally needed!

The dessert they had for us when we checked in (I ate over half of it myself!)

Dinner at the melting pot!!!!

The 2nd nicest hotel bathroom in the USA! I of course had to use it and take a picture! They had *real* towels to dry your hands with and then throw into a laundry bin, it was crazy!

My gift... this ring from T&Co James said there was one diamond on each side for each 5 years, so sweet!

Christmas outfits!

2011-12-31T19:55:00.000-08:00

After playing with gifts and eating breakfast we got ready for church. The kids all got new outfits and looked so cute!

This picture cracks me up! I told her open your eyes and she sure did!

So handsome!

Violet just hamming it up!

All ready for church!

Christmas!

2011-12-30T19:37:00.000-08:00

I loved that Christmas was on Sunday this year it really made me think more about the reason for the season and helped shift the focus in the right direction. The kids woke up EARLY (as in 4:30) and were told to go back to bed! We finally let them get up at 7 and made them shower and get ready (I know I am mean but we had church and I knew it would be hard to pull them away!) They loved the entire day and it brought back all the childhood happiness seeing the kids open presents!

Violet was soooo excited I could not get her to look at the camera! This year her list was

1. Dora Guitar

2. Baby Snow White doll

3. Dress-ups!

Preston wanted

1. Angry birds knockdown wood game

2. The real Lightning McQueen

3. Cars 2 ship set

Dorothy wanted:

1. A Karaoke machine

2. Fijit friend

3. Sewing machine

Violet who immediately dressed up in an outfit and started strumming her guitar!

Daddy teaching Preston how to drive Lightning!

This thing has been on since she got it! She is in LOVE!

Ummm I thought we were not getting each other big gifts this year! I love my new iPad and poor James got some new church clothes and candy!

Christmas Eve!

2011-12-30T08:04:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas Eve it is such a spiritual night, we met as a family and had our testimony meeting. We then read the Christmas story with actors! And then ate the best meal and opened gifts, it was such a special night!

Violet was Mary this year and Preston was Joseph.

The wise men came with gifts!

The cast!

Opening cousin gifts!

A whole decade!

2011-12-29T19:19:00.000-08:00

Today marks our 10 year anniversary! It still seems like just a few years but the wrinkles and grey hair tell another story! We are off for a little getaway staying at The Grand America hotel for the night. James ask me what I wanted to do and I said stay in SLC and eat at The Melting Pot! I feel so lucky to be married to my best friend! In 10 years we have been through...
1 new home!
2 iPad's
3 Kids
4 sets of stitches
5 new TV's
6 different moves
7 extra pounds;)
8 years of school
9 trips to Disneyland/ Disneyworld
10 amazing years of fun together!

Happy Anniversary I love you!

Our elf on the shelf!

2011-12-28T19:11:00.000-08:00

Krinkle (our elf's name) came again the day after Thanksgiving, he brought breakfast for the kids and dyed the milk green! He hid in LOTS of places and thanks to pinterest he did more than just hide in stockings and shelves! The kids LOVE getting up each morning and racing off to find where he has hidden. I slightly dreaded thinking up something new and can't lie there were a few mornings when I had to distract the kids while I quickly went and hid him somewhere new. It's a fun tradition I hope my kids will pass on someday!

A snowball fight with Buzz!

He also made a snow angel!

Decorating the tree and Christmas jammies!

2011-12-27T18:52:00.000-08:00

We got a tree REALLY late this year since we were off to Disney, the nice thing is that it still smells wonderful after Christmas! James also thinks we got half off (we are not doing it again even if it does save!) The kids LOVED decorating it, and then they put on their Christmas jammies and danced around!

Dancing to Christmas music!

Who wants to see Jesus?

2011-12-26T19:11:00.000-08:00

I have a nativity I got in Jerusalem it is hand carved and made of olive wood, and since I have collected nativities for the past 15 years or so I have quite a few! I can also say that this one is by far my favorite, and the kids are told to NOT TOUCH it! I set it out and kept finding it all wonky everyday... finally one day I saw Preston and Violet re-arranging the nativity. I ask them why and Violet said "Mommy everyone wants to see Jesus." I thought that was such a sweet thing to say and to think, that I left it for the rest of the season. From the mouth of a 2 year old came a very profound thought!

Off to see the Christmas lights!

2011-12-26T18:52:00.000-08:00

To keep with tradition we took the kids to see the lights! We had dessert with cousins and then drove through the lights with the kids yelling things about each one! It is always so fun to see their excitement over seeing Christmas lights!

Pressy of course has to drive!

The girls and Violet saying *cheese!!*

The girls favorite!

Preston's favorite (he thinks the wizard's live there and you can get *magical* powder from them... don't ask he really has an imagination!)

Mo-Tab Christmas concert!

2011-12-26T18:42:00.000-08:00

Even though my MIL is officially retired from the choir she still has *connections* and snagged us some tickets to the annual concert! The prophet attended the night we went and it was so neat to see him come in and wave to everyone! It was such a wonderful concert and Dorothy was thrilled that she is finally old enough to go!

Beautiful Temple Square!

Being silly with cousins!

Disney Day 3!!

2011-12-22T08:42:00.000-08:00

Our last day the weather was perfect! Right as we entered the park Alice came over and grabbed Dorothy and Sareya and had them join her in a little dance!

In front of the HUGE tree!

Walking into the park!

Some of the cute park decorations!

Toon town!

In front of the castle!

Mid-day churro break! We had to get one everyday, which was a small fortune but sooo worth it!

The darling Christmas parade!

Santa was there!

Teacup's again? Heck yeah!

Wheee!

Right outside the Alice in Wonderland ride (my other favorite!)

We ate dinner in *New Orleans* and for dessert we had to try the Mickey bengiets!

While leaving the park it was *snowing* and they played White Christmas! It was so magical and beautiful! I can't wait to go back again next year (or the year after as the case may be!)

After our walk back to the hotel the kids were beat! I snapped this picture in the hotel lobby!

Disney Day 2!!!

2011-12-21T09:13:00.000-08:00

It rained and the weather was garbage the whole day... on the bright side the park was EMPTY!!! We walked on every ride and at night it cleared and warmed up! I am glad we had that day because we got a lot done and with the dollar poncho's I got before we left we all stayed dry!

This is what we woke up to in the morning, these two are like brothers and Treygan has endless patience and is so sweet to little Pres!

The decorations at the entrance!

Our first ride and my favorite Peter Pan!!!

We then did Dumbo and it was so cold and wet... not the best idea!

We went on Small World quite a few times and it is so cute they sing Small World and Jingle Bells!

He was pretty excited for the Buzz ride!

Watching the Bug's Life video!

We then ate at Ariel's grotto!

Cute little Aleeya was in AWE of meeting Ariel it was sooo adorable!

This picture cracks me up... it's like Disney outtakes! Look at the food in Pressy's mouth!

Violet was sooooo excited to meet Snow White she kept telling her about how she was an apple for Halloween!

The fancy smancy dessert! I kid you not when I tell you our table's bill came to 500 bucks! That may be the last time we eat there (if James has his way!)

Mickey's death wheel at night!

We ended the night watching World of Color and that show is just amazing!!!

The Beach and Walk of Fame!

2011-12-21T09:03:00.000-08:00

You can't visit So Cal and not go to the beach! We went to the beach for our *annual* beach pictures and the kids had a BLAST playing in the freezing water!

After playing in the waves Preston was SOAKED! So his pants came off and he was wrapped in a towel. Then he saw all the seagulls and had to chase them, we were laughing so hard and I had to get a picture of the *condor* chasing the birds!

We then hit up PINKBERRY! I had to hit up the nearest Gymboree and get Preston and Dorothy new outfit's since they were wet and freezing!

We then drove through the Hollywood hills and saw all the huge houses where the rich and famous live! We stopped on the side of the road for a picture of the Hollywood sign!

We then drove to the Hollywood walk of fame (parked at the Kodak theatre) and ate dinner at the Rolling Stone (they were filming a music video while we were eating with Matthew McConaughey!)

I made the everyone take a picture with their hands in a celebrity's hand print! Dorothy chose Judy Garland of course!

Preston chose Mel Gibson (no idea why but that is what he wanted so ok!)

With a little help Violet chose Shirley Temple!

I think it was Clint Eastwood but I am not 100% sure!

Taylor Lautner for me! Go team Jacob;)

Disney Day 1

2011-12-15T08:34:00.000-08:00

Warning there will be a lot of pictures! The first day we headed to California adventure for the first half of the day.

Walking to the park from our hotel!

First ride... the new Ariel one!

On Mickey's ferris wheel (the kids nicknamed Mickey's death wheel!)

Riding Tower of Terror!

In Bug's Land!

Violet and Gigi meeting Doug from Up!

On Soaring with Pressy!

On Grizzly Rapids!

Preston in the Pixar parade!

The Teacup's at night!

Cousins riding the Teacups!

The park at Christmas time!

Telling the kids the exciting news!

2011-12-15T08:13:00.000-08:00

When we told the kids we were going to Disney the first thing Dorothy did was say "mommy stop teasing me, we are not going." I had to convince her we actually were going (in like 20 minutes!) Here are pictures of when they found out.

He was saying "I am going on Buzz ride!"

Dorothy was sooooo excited!

Off to DISNEYLAND!!!!

2011-12-09T08:53:00.000-08:00

For part of Christmas this year we decided to surprise the kids and take them to Disneyland! I have had the HARDEST time keeping this secret because I love that place as much as my kids! We are going with Evan, Kelly and kids, and I talked Jessica into coming too!!! It will be a blast!! We are going for 3 days on Saturday, Monday and Tuesday! The kids have no idea!!!! Tomorrow morning I will be here...

Nutcracker Sweet!

2011-12-06T08:53:00.000-08:00

Dorothy performed in the Nutcracker this past weekend and was a sweet little taffy! I know you are thinking what is a taffy? Well instead of the lady with the bon bon's under her dress they did a big box of taffy and chocolates. It was really cute and the girls LOVED it!! I am really impressed with this dance studio and the talented instructors! Here are some pictures of Dorothy (sadly none are with her cousins since they were in different casts!)

Yeah they were really good at looking at the camera! They were watching all the other girls in costume around the room!

Her #1 fan!!

After with her flowers!

BLACK FRIDAY!!!

2011-12-02T20:20:00.000-08:00

This is like a holiday for me every year! We lost a few people (Mom, Kelly!) but Allison and I braved the crowds at midnight for Target and went from there. We got home around 10ish the next day we were pretty beat but it was so worth it!!! I can't wait for next year!

This is at like 9am and we are looking pretty beat down! I should mention that we wore the EXACT same outfit NOT ON PURPOSE! I showed up to meet her and there she was in the same outfit as me. We laughed and left who cares it's Black Friday, we got a lot of comments about it from the friends we made! I think next year we should do it again!

Some of our spoils!

Thanksgiving!!!

2011-11-30T20:20:00.000-08:00

We have so much to be thankful for this year! We enjoyed Thanksgiving as a family this year and spent it at our house, it was fun to host but also a little stressful!

The table!

Dishing up... YUM!

Crazy cousins eating!

The *little kids table*

Eating pie and looking through the Black Friday ads!

WISHBONE! Yes Violet is in her Halloween costume she wears that thing all the time!!

Let it snow, Let it snow!

2011-11-22T06:59:00.000-08:00

We got a huge snow storm last weekend and the kids were so EXCITED!!! They went sledding a few weeks ago and have been asking everyday since if they can go again! We have a hill on the side of our house that is perfect for sledding! Here are pictures of the fun!

All dressed and ready to go!

Weeeeeee (Cocoa always chases the kids down the hill!)

I told Preston to go down the hill and he said "Not until I eat my lunch Mom" and then ate a huge bite of snow!!

Going down!

The girls playing in the snow!

We have a winter full of fun just right outside our door!

Breaking Dawn!!

2011-11-21T06:56:00.000-08:00

Breaking Dawn part I came out last week and a *small* group of 52 ladies all went together! It was a blast and I LOVED the movie! I am soooo excited for Part II (our goal next time is to have over 100!)

All ready to go... Team Jacob all the way!

We made little goodie bags for everyone!

Most of the group!

Ready for the movie to start!

With our *dates!*

Another 1/2!

2011-11-21T06:54:00.000-08:00

I forgot to blog about this but since this blog is my family scrapbook I want to blog about it. I ran a 1/2 marathon with Kelly, Kim and Lauren. It was a much harder course than the last one but I still managed to beat my time by 10 minutes! It was such a fun time we even dressed up (since it was the Halloween half and all.) Not sure I want to run another 13.1 miles anytime soon but Kelly is *really* trying to convince me to run one in January, and a full in June! But not sure I am up for either!

Carbo loading!

Bat makeup!

Before 13.1 miles (suckers!)

After the run

Standing on the winners box (pretending I won!)

Will I run another one? YES!!! Anytime soon... doubtful I am still exhausted!

11-11-11 Reflections

2011-11-15T16:50:00.000-08:00

Dorothy participated in the reflections contest at her school and won in her category of 3D art. Treygan her cousin suggested that she use the fists she had made for a science project for it, and she took it from there. It turned out really cute!

Getting her award!

With the other winners

With Violet who wanted to touch it and play with it!

The theme this year was "Diversity means..."

She chose different and painted those fists.

I am very proud of my little Dorothy!

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-11-04T19:11:00.000-07:00

This year we did Snow White and the two dwarfs! We started figuring out our costumes in April (I know I am a bit crazy but I love it!) This was the theme we all finally agreed on.

All ready for school!

Snow White

Grumpy

The poison apple!

The evil queen!

Would you like an apple Snow White?

Mmmmmmm

Oh no!

These guys will save the day!

The family!

Halloween Parties!

2011-11-03T19:18:00.000-07:00

I somehow managed to rope myself into becoming 'room mother' for Dorothy's class. I was in charge of the party and it was actually fun! Work and a little stress but fun! Halloween morning we raced up to Preston's pre-school for the Halloween parade and small program. Then ran errands all afternoon getting stuff for the party. It all turned out great and I am *looking forward* for the next class party;)!

The little program Preston's class put on (plus Violet who *had to be in it!*)

Preston ans his pre-school class! He LOVES Mrs Jenny!

I only got one picture of Dorothy at class (too busy running around!)

Carving time!

2011-11-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

Our annual carve-fest was a success this year! The kids have been dying to carve the pumpkins since we got them in September! They each picked out a pattern and James and I did the work!

Working on the pumpkins (Violet is sticking her head in hers!)

Dorothy and her "Devil Kitty!"

Preston and Dracula

Violet and her witch!

James made me promise next year we let the kids carve their own... YEAH RIGHT!!!

Cornbelly's!!!!

2011-10-28T06:50:00.000-07:00

We had our annual trip to Cornbelly's the kids love that place!!! We spent hours there and the kids were still not ready to leave. So many fun things to do... corn maze, haunted house, playing in the corn kernels, jumping on the huge trampoline, tons of bounce houses, and yummie food!

Jumping on the huge trampoline!

Riding on the cow ride!

Playing in the wooden playhouses!

Burried in the corn!!

Getting lost in the maze!

Till next year Cornbelly's!

Family Pictures!

2011-10-25T23:41:00.000-07:00

We actually took these in August but since life has been so crazy I have not posted them yet! It was really windy the day we took them and I was super rushed to go on a 9 mile run (1/2 training once again) but at least I refrained from screaming at my kids;)!

* don't be surprised when you see these same pictures on my Christmas cards!

The Witch!

2011-10-25T08:27:00.000-07:00

We have an advent calendar and every morning 'the witch' brings the kids something! One morning the witch was feeling generous and brought the kids The Lion King! Every morning the kids run out of bed to see what the witch brought! By the way the witch is beautiful, thin, nice and talented at least that's what I tell the kids;)!

Dorothy in her shirt for red ribbon week!

Don't know why Preston has 'crazy eyes'!

Too busy eating candy to smile!

Halloween Jammie time!

2011-10-24T08:38:00.000-07:00

You already know my affection for Halloween jammies so here are the pictures!

Scrappy little Dorothy!

Violet came up with this post on her own!

They turned on "The monster mash" and started dancing!

Three little snugly sweet babies (ok maybe they are not babies to you, but they still are to me!)

Beautiful FALL!!

2011-10-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

Fall is my favorite time of year I even think Halloween might be my favorite holiday, or at least tied for 1st place with Christmas. I start planning Halloween costumes in April and always decide before August, I know it's weird but I love it! We drove up the canyon to enjoy the beauty of Fall and took our annual pictures!

Three little stinks playing in the leafs!

Pretty little Dorothy (with snaggley little teeth)

My little Pressy-boy!

Sweet little Violet!

My two boys!

The girls

Annual Fall picture!

*Fingers crossed Winter does not come too soon since we now have snow on the mountains.*

Off to the pumpkin patch!

2011-10-05T20:06:00.000-07:00

For FHE we decided to head to the local pumpkin patch, it was a warm Fall night and the perfect family outing!

On the hay ride over to the patch!

Not sure what Treygan is doing here!

Picking his pumpkin

She got this one and said "I want dis one!"

Family fun at the pumpkin patch!

There is no place like home!

2011-09-26T13:37:00.000-07:00

We have moved in and I have been MIA from the blogging world trying to get organized! Here is a picture tour of about half of the house...

Entry way

I have my apples out for fall!

Living room

I still need to make a pillow for the window seat!

Family room (James is getting a new TV this week because he says this one is embarrassing!)

Dining area

Kitchen

Kids playroom up in the loft area.

The playroom notice the Angry birds on the shelf!

*Hopefully I will get the pictures hung in the bedroom's and pictures up soon!*

We bleed red!

2011-09-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

The annual *Holy-war* was earlier this year and frankly not near as exciting as usual! I actually really like a close game but if there has to be a blow out at least it was not the Utes getting beaten! I was teasing Evan that I was kinda getting tired of cheering so much! I hope next years games will be more exciting!

Dressed and ready!

Go Utes!!

James got Pressy a jersey with his name on the back!

As you can see this family is mostly blue!

Half Marathon!

2011-09-26T13:05:00.000-07:00

After training all Summer long I finally achieved my goal of running a half marathon. It was so much fun and I cannot wait to run another one! A few things I learned while running are...

1. Take the GU they totally help, even when you don't think you need one at mile 9 come mile 10 you will kick yourself!

2. Anywhere between 3-5 miles IS a short run!

3. Get a good support network (the girls I ran with were so awesome and supportive!)

4. ALWAYS carry toilet paper with you.... ummmm just trust me on this one!

5. Drink lots of water you or else you will blow up like the state puff marshmallow!

6. Anyone can learn to love running!!

Our pasta dinner before at Brick Oven!

The bus ride up

Trying to stay warm up at the top before the race!

DONE!!! We have run over 100 miles together getting ready for this race!

Running sisters!

Our medals!

Can't wait for the next one! I even finished 10 minutes under my goal time!

Little Soccer Star!!!

2011-09-09T21:27:00.000-07:00

Dorothy is such a talented soccer player, during her first game she scored the first (and only) goal of the game! She has control of the ball about 60% of the time her team has the ball and she only wants to play 'forward' since she like to score goals! She will not be the goalie because she has to wait way too long for the other team to try and score (read: boring!) She is very aggressive and super fast, I keep scratching my head because I am the least athletic person I know! James was pretty good at soccer so I think she must have gotten it from him... and he is a fast runner (since it can run a mile a few minutes faster than I) We are so proud of her and James keeps telling me to keep my *cheerleader* voice down since I am constantly ~~loudly~~ cheering my little all-star on!!!

Going to get the ball (this was like 30 seconds before her goal!)

Proud mommy and the little star!

Part of her fan club!

Getting Preston after the game since he heads to the park and plays for the entire game! It's good because he can't wait till next year when he gets to play and tries to *play* with the team too!

We are almost there!

2011-09-07T14:00:00.000-07:00

The house is suppose to be done this week (fingers crossed!) We hopefully have our final walk through on Thursday and close on Monday (the date has changed a few times!) The garage here is so full of boxes and stuff I am parking on the driveway and sick to death of driving to and from our new house/school/pre-school/soccer/you get the idea! I am ready and excited for the move!

Kitchen (it is still waiting for the construction clean up!)

A closeup of the kitchen (sans oven since the tile is not all the way dry!)

Girls room (Evan calls it pepto-pink!)

Pressy's room (yes I used the same paint colors in the kids rooms, I really liked them!)

The stairway

The best part of the new house.... my walk in closet!!!

Entry way

The fireplace and windows that need blinds now!! (James is putting them up tonight!)

Front view (my grass is starting to grow!)

The back (the deck is finally in!)

*Now let's hope there are no more problems... like firing the tile guy mid-project or the wrong hardwood being put in. Don't get me started I have stories and ulcers from building! But I know it will all be over in a week, and totally worth it!*

Berry picking!

2011-09-06T21:00:00.000-07:00

Last week we visited a local berry patch and picked buckets and buckets of berries. Dorothy had a *sore throat* that got really bad once she caught wind of us going to the berry patch. Since I am such a responsible mother I let her play hookie and go with us! We had a good time picking (I actually LOVE it, who knew?) Then we came home and made jam all afternoon!

Some of our spoils!

My self portrait!

My little helper (kind of, he ate almost all the ones he picked!)

Violet picking berries out of her bucket (to eat) and Dorothy who was actually really helpful picking berries!

Preschool bound!

2011-09-06T12:52:00.000-07:00

My little Pressy is growing up! He started pre-school last week at Apple Tree Pre-school and his teacher is Miss Jennie. He LOVES LOVES LOVES pre-school! If I tell him that he has pre-school that day he jumps out of bed, strips down and gets in the tub because he does not want to be late!!! Here are pictures of his first day!

All ready for school!

Backpack shot!

Hugging goodbye!

And he's off... stop growing up so fast!

Oh we're movin' on up....

2011-08-28T21:41:00.000-07:00

More updates on the house:

It's almost done outside just a few more things to paint (like the beams.)

The hardwood is in and covered up (carpet tomorrow) and the house is painted.

Kitchen cabinets are almost done (granite on Tuesday)

Just a few things left (like assembling the window bench)

We have our final walk-thru at the end of the week and close next week!!! We are so excited!

Just in case you think I am bragging (which isn't that what blogs are for?) can I show you my parents house? It is twice the size (no literally) and not coming along quite as fast :( but they will be in by Christmas and it will be twice as BEAUTIFUL!!! I am so excited for them!

My mom always shows the front view where you can't see the magnitude of it, here is what you see as you drive up the hill. Mom don't be mad:)!

Starting Second Grade!

2011-08-22T09:14:00.000-07:00

Today is Dorothy's first day of school and to say she was nervous is a huge understatement. She is switching school since we are moving in 2 weeks and is not sure about all these huge changes we have coming up! She will do great I know it because she is such a social butterfly! All of her teachers always tell me how nice and sweet she is, and how she quickly becomes popular (but she is still nervous!) Last night James gave all of the kids (and me) a Father's blessing, so I am certain she will do very well! This year she helped pick out all of her school clothes and wanted to dress more like 'mommy' and less cutesie. She is really growing up fast!

All dressed for school!

The hair-do she planned out (straight with a twist in front and bow)

The two year old that NEVER gets left out!! This is her back to school outfit she picked out by herself and had to wear today too!

Hugging Dorothy goodbye! (Notice Violet's new Dora backpack... she thinks she is starting school next week with Preston!)

Little sweet feet!!

Thomas Orthodontics makes waves with a float!

2011-08-19T15:39:00.000-07:00

After hours and hours of work some blood, tons of sweat and even a few tears we made a float for Salem days for Thomas Orthodontics. Thanks to my dad who is an all-star at Jimmie-rigging things, he made the entire float from scratch! Also thanks to my awesome siblings (and Kelly's niece) and my mom who watched the kids until LATE into the night twice! It turned out great and I have not laughed so hard in years! Here are pictures of our success!

Walking to the community breakfast (can I just say I love this town!)

Crazy kids who threw out over 100 LBS of candy! Yes you read that right over 100 LBS!

Shirts designed by an amazing graphic designer!

The float... it may not look like much but let me tell you it was HARD to make!

Getting ready for the parade (do you see a small amount of all the candy in the corner?)

Our family in front of the float!

Swimming Lessons!

2011-08-17T13:18:00.000-07:00

We just finished up swimming lessons last week, the kids LOVED them and I enjoyed having something to do everyday that wore the kids out!

The house is coming along!

2011-08-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

With about 3 weeks till we move I think I need to update this blog! We have been busy with company, packing, and enjoying Summer! Here are pictures of the house...

The framing begins!

Putting the roof on!

The house finally framed!

The back of the house

The inside looked like this and went to...

This!

Siding is going on

(but is not painted because our house is not a creamy-beige-ish!)

We are getting excited!! The kids love going up to see the house and screaming "there is our new house!" If only I did not have to pack for us to move!

Our foundation

2011-08-02T21:45:00.000-07:00

After digging a huge hole they filled half of it up with dirt... we were confused. Come to find out they hit clay (this also happened to my parents) and had to dig it out and put in fill dirt and then compact the soil. Our house ended up being a few feet higher up than anticipated but will make the walkout basement really nice (glass half full). Here are pictures of our foundation...

The foundations (can you see how much higher we are than our neighbors?)

The side view with the park in it as soon as we pull up to see the house the kids jump out and say "can we go play at the park?" I think I am really going to like living right by it!

After our driveway was poured

The kids playing on the wood that will frame our house.

Speedy Spainard!

2011-07-27T19:46:00.000-07:00

I got this *great* idea to sign up for a 10K (6.2 miles) a few months ago and took the plunge. The kids wanted to run the 1 mile run and so we signed them up. James was a good sport and let me run the 10K while he took the kids to do the 1 mile even though he wanted to do the 10K too. I guess next year we will switch! It was really fun to run it even though I felt awful at the end of the race which ended up being the barf flu!

The kids before the *big race!*

Allison and I after the race

James and Violet were a great team (Violet sat on his shoulders and yelled "run faster daddy!"

The kids after the big race!

Me and my little Pressy boy!

*I know it looks like all of a sudden I am really into running, but I actually have been running since Preston was 5 months and recently decided to start doing races.*

Budge reunion at Bear lake!

2011-07-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we headed to Bear Lake for the Budge family reunion, we ate lunch, swam in the lake and pool, rode on the wave runners and a "super fast boat" and played corn hole. It was a wonderful time and the kids can't wait to go back!

Playing in the sand!

James taking Violet on the wave runner!

Papa pulling the boys around!

Violet being silly!

Eating at La Beau's and having the famous raspberry shakes!!!

Preston drinking Cort's drink!

First Talk

2011-07-25T19:06:00.000-07:00

Preston gave his first talk in Primary, he was so adorable and ate up all the attention. We were so proud of him!! Here is his talk...

This picture of the temple was not too hard to draw because I have seen the temple and have pictures of the temple. When Joseph Smith was commanded to build a temple he had never seen a temple and did not have a picture of one. Church members wondered what the temple should be made of. Some thought it should be wood but Joseph told the saints the Lord had revealed the design of the temple and it was very different from what they thought. Building the Kirtland temple was very hard but brought so many blessing to the early saints. In the name of Jesus Christ amen.

We have ourselves a hole!!!

2011-07-18T08:43:00.000-07:00

They dug the hole for our house!!! We have been out to see the progress almost everyday, and everyday when James is here. He is obsessed with going up and *checking* on things, I think I will be more interested in the house once it's progressed to the sheet rock stage and actually starts resembling a house! I will post more pictures later this week of the foundation, since this is our first house I want to document it all, sorry if I bore you with all the posts!

The day they started digging, do you see our beautiful view!

The kids were fascinated by it!

Inside our hole!

Violet and I in the hole!

4th of July

2011-07-12T09:18:00.000-07:00

I just love this holiday and this year we got to spend sometime with Jessica and Adam as well as Conrad and Hailey! We got up and went 4-wheelin' in the morning, went home took a nap, showered and dressed and headed up to Evan and Kelly's for the BBQ and fireworks! We had an AMAZING show since the biggest pyro (Conrad) of all was there to teach the young ens how to make dynamite out of a whistling Pete and what not!

Ready to go fee-wheelin' as Preston calls it!

Pretty Dorothy dressed in her Patriotic duds!

Daddy and his pretty girls!

Me and my sweet boy!

I painted the girls nails

Cousin-fest!

Traditional *tank wars* Pressy actually won this year!

The grand finale'! Since Utah loosened up the firework laws it was AWESOME!

Of course the sparkler photo's! I can't wait till next year!

Dirty Girl Run!

2011-07-11T09:15:00.000-07:00

A few ladies in my ward thought signing up for an all girls run in the mud would be fun (and it actually was.) I hate missing a party so I signed up immediately! We all carpooled up to SLC and got dressed in our matching costumes!

Most of the group

We named ourselves the *Muddy Mamas*

Allison and I with our *tattoo's*

The group after the race!

Kelly, Allison and I after the race! It was so much fun I can't wait to do it again next year!

Seven Peaks!!!

2011-07-07T09:11:00.000-07:00

The Peak reader passes were about to expire and we finally had warm weather so I took the kids to Seven Peaks! It was really fun and now the kids keep asking to go back... I on the other hand have had enough to last me all Summer;)!

Taking a break to re-hydrate!

Water Slide buddies!

A few minutes later she fell asleep in my arms, eight hours at any water park will do that to you!

That was the best picture I could get of the three of them!

A Summer Hike!

2011-07-05T09:11:00.000-07:00

Evan and Kelly decided to take their kids on a hike and invited us to join in. It was really fun and not very hard which = perfect for kids! After the hike we hit up the movies and saw "Mister Poppers Penguins" which we all *surprisingly* liked:)!

Preston taking off on the hike!

Up at the grotto!

The kids and I at the grotto

Cousins on a log!

Kyra and Violet

Feathers in you hair...

2011-07-05T09:02:00.000-07:00

Since feathers are *all the rage* in Utah we decided to jump on the band wagon:)!

Dorothy's dance recital!!!

2011-06-23T23:21:00.000-07:00

I know what you are thinking... another recital? Yup, but this is the last one till next year! They had the *CUTEST* dance in the recital while dancing to the song "Ghostbusters!" Here are pictures of my little star!

Such a little ham!

Fan Club!

The cousins (who BTW all made it into mini-company 2!)

Dancing

Of course flowers after the performance!!!

Run run as fast as you can!

2011-06-16T21:19:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I ran my first race (it's been on my New Year's Resolution list since 2008) it was really fun! I had great support because Kelly and Allison ran it too! I surprisingly took 6th place in my age group (I know what?!) I cannot wait for my 10K next month (after I go to the Dr tomorrow and get the OK because I am having feet *issues*!)

This is me before the race showing the ladies my *RS arms!*

Most of the ladies that ran!

Crossing the finish line, notice the older lady in pink right behind me!

Enjoying our Creamy bars after the race.

Now that I am a "runner" and all I had to take some pictures to prove it!

Hiking up to the Y

2011-06-09T08:49:00.000-07:00

I am *trying* to do at least one thing that is fun for the kids every week during Summer vacation. So I decided to take the kids to hike the Y, now I had not done this hike for about 12 years and totally forgot how HARD it is. Taking 3 kids and myself a mile up a mountain in the blazing sun = fun for them not for me. They did enjoy it and actually so did I, but I will not be braving a hike like that without James again:)! I think I will stick to the movies next time because I would really like to see Kung Fu Panda 2 again.

Preston was the navigator on the way up!

Me and my back pack buddy VJ!

The kids doing a "U" sign on top of they "Y":)

The view was amazing!

We had a little picnic and then hiked down.

We enjoyed looking over the valley the whole way down!

*We are off to the library today to sign up for the Summer reading program, a much less strenuous fun activity if you ask me!*

All the wonders of childhood...

2011-05-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

The other day we went to the craft store and the kids got free balloons. They are so intrigued by these balloons and insisted on napping with them and carrying them EVERYWHERE they go. We were walking to get the mail and this is what I saw, I immediately ran back into the house and grabbed the camera. I just HAD to capture this moment because these are the *moments* that I always want to remember!

"The few wonders of the world only exist while there are those with the sight to see them."

~Charles de Lint

Sweet moments!

2011-05-27T20:56:00.000-07:00

Today I actually did some digital scrapbooking *gasp* I know! As I was working I had this song playing in the background. Violet came up and put her sweet little head on my shoulder and sang along to it. It is one of the songs that our primary kids are learning for the program and that cd is always playing in the van. It was such a sweet moment and it is such a beautiful song that teaches the most important message!

Pre-School Graduation!

2011-05-26T22:11:00.000-07:00

Preston finished preschool last week and we had a little party at our house to celebrate! The kids had a great time playing and the adults had lunch together. They even wore little hats and got certificates!

Playing around during the party

The kids playing

The 'graduates!'

Congrats little buddy!

Here is Violet who graduated from "pretend preschool" because she is CONVINCED that she was in preschool all year!

Proud mommy moment!

2011-05-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

I have to record this because honestly these moment are so few and far between. At church on Sunday a man in the ward came up to me and told me this story. He had been substitute teaching a few days before Mother's Day and had the kids in the class go around and have each one tell something they love about their mothers. When it was Dorothy's turn she said "I love my mom because she teaches me about Heavenly Father" he wrote it down because he thought it was so sweet and the kind of thing a mother would be proud to hear. I was overwhelmed that she said that and grateful that things I am *trying* to teach my children are beginning to sink in!

Me and my wonderful daughter!

The note that brought me to tears!

Bad hair cut!

2011-05-16T19:39:00.000-07:00

On Saturday night I always bathe the kids, paint the girls nails, and do their hair. While I was in the middle of doing Dorothy's hair I hear Violet start to cry "Pressy ruined my hair!" I jumped up and found clumps of hair on the floor! Here are pictures of the destruction!

After the 'incident' notice he has been crying!

The tool of choice!!! Don't worry they were put up waaay high but that kid is a monkey!

The results!

Ei-yi-yi!

I curled it and I don't think you can tell as much!

My little pretty baby!

First Grade Program!

2011-05-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

Dorothy had an end of the year program at school it was a sea theme and sooooo cute!!

Ready for the program!

Waiting for the show to start

The little dancer on the stage!

In Dorothy's class after the program!

Dorothy and her cute little friends!

Dorothy and her favorite teacher EVER Ms Powell!

Trip to the farm!

2011-05-13T17:20:00.000-07:00

Preston's preschool class had a field trip to the farm, the kids LOVED seeing all the baby animals. I loved getting out on a warm Spring day!

Violet and Preston looking at a cow

Preston riding a horse!

Violet riding a horse. She keeps randomly telling me that she wants to ride a horse again!

Playing around the tulips!

It was beautiful and Spring was in the air!

Just sew it up!

2011-05-09T21:58:00.000-07:00

We have had an eventful time lately, Dorothy started by bumping her head on the railing and ended up with 4 stitches. Then a week later she was running around the yard and sliced her foot open and got stitches again! She insisted that my dad do it because "daddy is not a Dr like Grandpa." So thank goodness for a grandpa who knows how to perform stitches ;) and a daddy who knows when his daughter is in hysterics, to just let her have her way!

Her head

Driving to grandpa's so he can do them!

Surgery on Grandma's table!

Ouch!

The last of Easter

2011-05-02T14:51:00.000-07:00

The last thing we did for Easter was have an Easter egg hunt. The kids loved finding the eggs and the weather even cooperated and we had a beautiful Spring day!

Easter pictures

2011-04-28T08:42:00.000-07:00

After church we drove to a nearby field and took some pictures of the kids in their Easter outfits.

They are so cute!

Missing her two front teeth!

Little buddy!

Sweet little Violetta!

Mommy and her girls

Daddy and his girls!

Me and my little guy!

My two handsome men!

Smelling the flowers

We could not get him to sit still for even one picture!

Copies everything Dorothy does and had to smell the flowers too!

Three best friends!

Hi-Ho Hi-Ho it's another recital we go....

2011-04-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

Dorothy had a dance recital on Saturday night and they danced to 'Hi-Ho, Hi-Ho' from Snow White. The entire recital was Disney theme so the other kids were actually really good during it!:)

Dorothy and Daddy before the recital

We had to get there an hour early to get good seats and Violet spent the *extra* time dancing on the stage!

During her dance

Snow White

After (Preston just looks like he is having a great time hu?)

With Grandma and Grandpa

With mommy

Cousins!!!

Easter Baskets!

2011-04-24T16:07:00.000-07:00

The Easter Bunny comes to our house on Saturday and here is what he brought the little squirts!

The loot!

The kids digging into the baskets!

Dorothy in her 'Snow White and the Seven- Dwarf' costume she had a dress rehearsal at 9am for her dance recital later that night.

Preston looking through his book

Violet trying to figure out which candy to eat first!

We hope you have a Happy Easter this year!!!

Getting ready for Easter!

2011-04-21T21:22:00.000-07:00

We had FHE and dyed eggs as a family (we also talked about the true meaning of Easter!) The kids loved dyeing the eggs but only Dorothy will eat them kind of, James HATES hard boiled eggs but not too worry I finished them all off already!

Getting ready to dye eggs (yes that is Preston in an apron he INSISTED he HAD to wear one like the girls!)

Dyeing the eggs

Fun family time!

Our beautiful eggs- nothing fancy. Trust me it was serious WORK trying to keep the kids from spilling dye all over the kitchen:)!

I have a smile of relief that the dye is down the drain!

More Spring Break!

2011-04-19T11:12:00.000-07:00

We also went to Pirate's Island (glorified Chuck-E-Cheese) and had lunch and let the kids play games.

Eating lunch

Playing games!!

The next day we headed to Salt Lake to visit temple square and take the kids to the Children's Book of Mormon exhibit. They played there for about 2 hours!!

The kids dancing (Lillian and Dorothy did this for about an hour!)

Helping to 'translate the plates!'

Catching fish on 'Lehi's ship'

It was a beautiful Spring day and Temple square was magnificent with all the flowers in bloom!

*the last thing we did was go see the movie Rio the kids liked it a lot more than Hop and so did I!

Spring Break!

2011-04-18T09:14:00.000-07:00

Last week we had Spring Break, we just had a 'stay-cation' and lined up fun things to do. I am exhausted but the kids had a wonderful time!

First off we went and saw the movie "Hop" after the movie ALL the kids go up front and dance!

Dorothy and I at the movie!

Next we went to a bouncy-gymnastics play place. The kids LOVED it!

Rock climbing wall

Pressy our little climber!

I have fallen and I can't get up!

Violet wanted to spend most of the time being pushed on a swing!

*more to come!

Ward Temple Night!

2011-04-10T21:28:00.000-07:00

My friends and I had been trying to plan a night to go play laser tag, after a few failed attempts we decided to combine ward temple night with laser tag. Weird you say? Yes but totally fun!!! We have decided we are going to make this a tradition in the hopes that it will raise the numbers!

The Provo Temple!

Right after the session (yes that's snow on my hair, I know it's April but Mother nature must be unaware of the date!) We jumped in the car and changed in-route

Playing our second game of Laser Tag!!! It was a night of fun (but being the only people over the age of 20 *including management* we all felt a little old!)

Preston turns 4!!

2011-04-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

I hardly know where the time has gone but my little guy is now 4! He is still a 'wild man' full of endless amounts of energy, amazing at climbing, can run ANYTHING electronic (knows how to use the iPad and iPhone better than mom) and has the most tender heart. In every prayer he asks "please help mommy to find her wedding ring." He always has a hug for anyone having a bad day and a smile for all! We love you little Pressy-boy!

On the morning of the 23rd (his actual birthday)

PRESENTS!!!

Dorothy and Violet sang "Happy Birthday" to him I thought that was so sweet!

Preston's 'Basketball hoop' cake!

We had his party at Pirate's Island (it makes it really easy for mom!)

Playing games

Violet kept disappearing and every time I could find her 'driving my car mom!'

The birthday boy and mommy!

Blowing out the candles!

Presents!

Uncle Jon gave him a meat cleaver... it was his favorite gift and has since disappeared?!!

Hanging out with the pirates!

Preston had a wonderful party and already wants to have it at "pirate's island next year!!!"

On the way home!

2011-03-29T20:17:00.000-07:00

On our way home we decided that before we leave California we should stop for some Pinkberry. We all are big fans and all ordered the size LARGE I almost got a take home!!! I love Red Mango here in Utah but nothing compares to Pinkberry!

Ordering

This little piggy went "yum yum yum all the way home!'

Day 7- Last day at sea!

2011-03-28T20:11:00.000-07:00

We wanted to go to the all you can sushi restaurant since it was the last day we finally did it. Yummy it was so good (even though I only eat the baby stuff!) It was such a wonderful time and we stayed up late trying to enjoy it till the very end!

Eating sushi with T-Bone (nice shirt!) James refused to pay extra when he could eat free food all over the ship!

After the comedy show which was AWESOME!

No new towel animal tonight so I got just one more with my little monkey buddy!

Day 6- at sea!

2011-03-27T20:05:00.000-07:00

Some people hate all the days at sea, but I really loved relaxing reading my kindle, napping, and shopping at the 3 stores on the ship! Tonight was 'formal' night so we also got to dress up and enjoy a wonderful dinner!

Eating coconut ice cream!

Formal night

Me and my FAVORITE towel animal the monkey!!

Day 5- Puerto Vallarta!

2011-03-26T19:52:00.000-07:00

We got off the ship early so we could do the zip line (I was REALLY looking forward to it!) We found a great deal and rode into the mountains where our zip line was! 12 zip lines later we were high on adrenaline and ready to shop!

On the bus ride up to the zip line

We zip lined where the movie Predator was filmed at

James painted his face to get into the jungle spirit!

Hiking up!

James going down!

Tricia going down!

After dinner which included 4 appetizers, 2 entrees, and 3 desserts (no really!) We went out for wings!

Me and my little mouse!!

Day 4- 4 wheelin'!

2011-03-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

Day 4 we got up early and headed out so we could ride 4 wheelers out and along the beach. We finished with enough time to stop at Senior' Frogs for chips and salsa (family cruise tradition) and do a little shopping!

Getting ready to ride!

A little stop in the desert

Out at the beach

Chips and Salsa and Pina' Colada's!

Looking at the beautiful stars at night!

Me and my towel animal! I think he is a dog!

Day 3- Cabo San Lucas

2011-03-24T19:51:00.000-07:00

Our first stop was at Cabo and we went Snorkeling, it was beautiful! We took a boat ride out where we saw a whale and turtle too!

Ready for the boat ride!

Riding around the coast

Snorkeling

Adam and James 'Floundering' around!

Jess took my 'Baywatch' shot!

Riding back

At the show that night

Holding my little piggy!!!

Day 2- Dancing and Eating!

2011-03-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

The second day was a day at sea we got up early and Treygan and I went running (it was futile I was eating too much but at least I felt a little less guilty!) We went to a fun dance class and an amazing show! Ended the night singing Karaoke!!

At dance class

Dinner!

Karaoke

And of course my towel animal (I love these things!) It was an elephant I think!

Day 1- All aboard!!!

2011-03-21T19:38:00.000-07:00

We drove from Vegas to LA and jumped on the ship!!!

Got into our room and...

immediately headed to the dining room!! Let the eating begin!

Viva Las Vegas!!!

2011-03-20T17:02:00.000-07:00

On our way down to get on our cruise we spent the day/night in Las Vegas. We spent the entire day shopping (H&M 4 hour extravaganza!) and the guys went to watch the Cougars win (Jimmer! Yeah I am on the band wagon since the Utes sucked this year!) Then we got hungry at about 11 at night and hit up Serendipity3 for dinner! Kyra and Treygan were stellar the ENTIRE day of shopping, all they wanted to do was ride the roller coaster at the NY NY casino so we headed over there at about midnight (as it was closing for the night) we barely made it but had a BLAST!!!

I love you Bobby Flay!!

Serendipity3!

Dinner!

Ready for the ride!!!

*more posts to come!