Homemade Happiness

sickness = scrap time

2012-01-22T18:26:00.001-08:00

I thought I would share some of what I accomplished the last few weeks while I was so sick. I feel good that I got something accomplished since sitting around is all I could make myself do - I was so miserable.

I love this page about Ry and Brodyn. They have such an awesome relationship.

I did this page for a challenge at DHD - (He's SO LITTLE!)

I got so many great pics while we were at Mom & Dad's for Christmas. I'm slowly but surely tackling them . . . The kids were on the 4wheelers every day.

our ballerina

2012-01-16T15:33:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd share some layouts I did showcasing some pics I took of Brei with her pointe shoes. This is way new to us, but its exciting and she is working really hard.

I'm hoping we coming out of all this sickness. I was finally able to sleep last night, so that has definitely helped my outlook :)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T20:51:00.000-08:00

We've had a quiet weekend because Ryan is working tons and I've not been feeling well. So I've been celebrating by working on scrapbook pages, pictures, and preserving my memories of this past year. It went by so fast, but we've been very blessed and I don't want to lose these stories.

I love these pages about Brodyn spending time with Kensey's sheep while we were at Mom and Dad's for Christmas. He absolutely loved it -

Here's to 2012! Let's make it a good one!!

Happy Anniversary Sweetheart!!

2011-12-21T12:32:00.000-08:00

Today started out so great because of my sweetheart. He sent me on a scavenger hunt (guided by the kids) and at the end I was given my wedding ring by Brodyn. (I had to have it cut off when I was pregnant with Brodyn and its been in a safe ever since). I was so surprised and very, very touched. I love you dear, Happy Anniversary!! We've been very blessed during the past 17 years!!

Moment I Cherish . . .

2011-12-16T09:30:00.000-08:00

Things have been so crazy lately that I haven't had any time to work on any creative projects and it's really been bugging me. Last night I finally was able to spend a little time sewing and I even finished a layout! I mostly used Robyn Meiretto's new kit "Cool Kid". The journaling is something I've been thinking about a lot lately as I contemplate Brodyn starting preschool soon. They just grow up too fast!

We are finally ready for Christmas and so excited that we get to go to Grandma & Grandpa's house!! Hopefully we can get everyone healthy by then. Can't wait!!

Christmas Card 2011

2011-12-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

Finally got a christmas card made. Nothing fancy cuz I have so many things on my list right now. Atleast I get to cross one off right?

Its cold and snowy here, but the roads aren't bad - so I'm happy. We are getting excited for Christmas around here. The tree looks a little worse for wear between Cali (our cat) and Brodyn, but it's still beautiful. Hope you are all enjoying the holidays too!!

DHD Decorator Blog Hop

2011-11-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

Its time for my first blog hop as a Design House Decorator! We are all sharing a quick page (in both 12x12 and 8.5x11 sizes) that we've designed from the free kit. I'm so excited to be a part of such a talented and friendly group of ladies who share my love of DHD and digital scrapbooking.

Here a link that will get you to the DHD designer blog hop, if that doesn't work try this. If you haven't grabbed these kits you need to because they are yummy!!

Here is my contribution:

To get it, click here, or on the image above!

And the page I made with it:

Be sure to stop by all of the other Decorators' blogs to get their quick pages too!!

We Made It!

2011-10-24T09:55:00.000-07:00

Volleyball is over (I made it through)! Aubrei's team ended up getting 3rd place at Districts. She hurt her thumb warming up for the last game so she wasn't able to set, but she still did a great job and I'm very proud of her. I can't believe how much she progressed this year (makes me excited for next year - am I crazy or what?). She is very much a team player and hard worker, which makes her a great setter.

A few days after vball was over Aubrei was playing football at school and her other thumb got kicked. Luckily it isn't broken, but she's had to have brace and wrap on for a couple weeks. We're lucky she's done with vball and that she doesn't need her thumb to dance. Silly girl - gotta love her!

Brodyn fell at a friend's house last week and we ended up at the Emergency Room. Thank goodness for glue - so no stitches. Its been a pain keeping his knee wrapped, but its healing well (especially for my wild and dirty 4year old).

Ainsli is doing well in dance and school and trying my patience. Proof that miracles do take work:)

We're gearing up to do fundraisers for dance team. We're hoping to make enough to cover competition fees and hopefully costumes too, we'll see!!

I even have exciting news this month! I made the decorator team at Design House Digital. I'm so excited. They are my favorite place for digital scrapbooking goodies. I love their gallery and all the fun things they do. I'm so excited to be a part of their team and share my passion for preserving memories - digital makes it so much quicker and that is a great thing in my book!

Ainsli's baptism

2011-09-30T12:19:00.000-07:00

Ainsli's baptism weekend was so special, but I'll be honest its taken me awhile to catch back up with everything. Things are crazy busy around here with volleyball, dance and young womens. I wouldn't change a thing, but things do get a little crazy:) I'm so looking forward to conference weekend and the boost it gives me. Plus I hope to get in some scrapbook therapy time! This layout is from a template at Design House Digital - it went together so fast and that is a good thing for me right now!

Ainsli is my precious girl and I'm so thankful she was sent to our home by a loving Heavenly Father who knew what we needed most. She will always be my miracle baby. She is an amazing little girl and I am constantly impressed by her strength and desire to do what is right. It was nice to have so much support for her on her special day. She felt loved and that makes it worth every sacrifice.

Guess what's coming up?!

2011-08-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby girl is going to be 8!!! It seemed so far away until now. She is ultra excited to get baptized and (of course) be the center of attention. We've got lots of planning still to do, but at least I can check "make invitation" off my list!

Checkin off my list!

2011-08-17T22:51:00.000-07:00

I got so many things checked off my list today that I was able to give myself some time to finish some layouts I've been working on. A couple are for challenges and others just for fun. The pictures are recent except for the one of Ains from a couple years ago. She still makes the same look though . . .

Brei is 1/2way through her 1st week of volleyball this season. She is loving it and having fun. She's also been working on a ballet solo for competitions this year and is always prancing around :)

Ains is so excited for her upcoming baptism and is constantly thinking of more things she wants to do while everyone is here. I'm excited too - looking forward to some special photoshoots.

B is my happiness. He is so funny right now and his imagination is my best friend (it keeps him occupied). He is growing a lot lately and the poor guy has leg aches almost every night. So I've been getting even more snuggles than usual!

Ry is crazy busy, but he still makes time to do things for all of us. I'm very thankful for him - not only is he my sweetheart, but he is my hope and my safe place.

I've been very blessed and my goal is to remind myself of all the things that are truly most important - it takes away some of the sting from the stressors in my life.

Little Man . . .

2011-08-15T15:26:00.001-07:00

Check out our "little man". I can't get over how stinkin' cute he is. I love the orange tie and he is super proud of his belt and boots that he got for his birthday from Grandma and Grandpa. He pointed them out to everyone willing to listen to him at church Sunday. He's been so silly lately with the things he says to us. He's growing up way too much!

my baby is 4!!!

2011-07-20T17:10:00.001-07:00

My special little man turned 4 a couple of weeks ago and he seems to have grow 2" and turned into a little man overnight. Gone are all traces of "babyness", while he works as hard as he can to be "like the big kids". . . He had a fun birthday - he had a lot of favorites to enjoy: cupcakes, water balloons and squirt guns, new boots, presents and olives! I made him "minion" cupcakes from Despicable Me, which he loved and has asked twice since if we could make them again. Its been a quiet summer filled with watering the gardens and trying to stay cool, but we finally were able to go fishing and the kids had a blast. I'm glad they enjoy it . . . I just take the pictures and stay out of the kitchen until everything is cleaned, gone, vaporized, whatever . . . :)

My little buddy

2011-06-21T09:15:00.001-07:00

As silly and wild as this boy can be, he also has the power to melt his mom's heart. Saturday night we were winding down and reading some books together. All of a sudden my sweet little boy started singing - usually he sings jibberish and is silly, but I soon realized he was singing "I am a Child of God" and he was doing so good! Then we sang it together and my heart was near to overflowing and of course, my eyes already were!

I will be eternally grateful for the opportunity to be this precious little boy's "momma". He is amazing and his spirit touches me with its strength and also its gentleness. He is growing so fast and will celebrate his 4th birthday on Saturday! Where has the time gone?

We are having a great summer so far even though we haven't done anything special. Its just nice to spend time together. I am so blessed!

some SWEET kids . . .

2011-06-03T22:44:00.000-07:00

Yeah! School's out! I'm loving summer already!

I thought I'd share a few recent pics of my sweet kiddos! I love the one of Aubrei - she is such a beautiful young lady and we are privileged to be her family. The orange nail polish

is so her right now - its her favorite color - happy, just like her!

Ainsli and Brodyn posed for a few pictures, but only after

I bribed them with lollipops in their favorite colors :)

We are so blessed and I don't want to miss a single moment -

the kids are growing up so fast and time seems to be zooming right along. I have to keep reminding myself not to take anything for granted and enjoy all the little

things that are so "us" right now.

Brief Moments with no RAIN!

2011-05-31T11:33:00.000-07:00

There has been so much rain the past few weeks, but we had a few little breaks in the rain when we were able to get outside for awhile and enjoy spring time - here's what we've been doing:

Helping Daddy weed the raspberry patch . . .

Using rocks to hold down blankets so the wind doesn't blow them away . . .

Playing with purple lizards and being heartbroken when they break . . . . .

Chasing the girls off the trampoline with a lawnmower . . .

So, we've been enjoying what we can of spring - but we are so ready for SUMMER! The girls get out of school this Friday and I can't wait! Yeah Summer! The sun is out today and I hope it stays for awhile - I really hope our garden starts growing and the seeds haven't all molded into the ground with all this rain - keeping my fingers crossed!

Brrr...

2011-05-04T19:50:00.001-07:00

I thought I would share the layout I made for a DHD challenge. Yes, I know its spring, but in Wyoming there is always snow - so why not a snowy scrapbook page?! I made a word cluster for this page and uploaded it - so if you're a digital scrapper you are welcome to download it. Here is the link . . .

http://www.4shared.com/photo/RErH2R20/coldcluster.html

my reward

2011-04-06T16:27:00.001-07:00

Taking the time to create this layout was "my reward" for walking until I couldn't feel my legs and avoiding the german chocolate cake on my counter! Things are going good!

backup to spring break . . .

2011-03-30T23:10:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share a page I did of Brodyn playing at Sagebrush on the only nice day of Spring Break. Yes, it was 2 1/2 weeks ago. I'm way behind and I know it! We really enjoyed Spring Break. The girls and I did a lot of projects and Brodyn was so excited to be able to go outside and play. Unfortunately he hasn't been able to since then, either because of the weather or sickness - poor guy! At our house we are just trying to survive right now. Ryan has been sicker than I've ever seen him in 16 years. He actually went to the ER on Saturday. Unfortunately I'm now starting to get it. I honestly don't care how the house looks, we're in survival mode from here on out!

gearing up for dance competitions . . .

2011-03-19T12:27:00.001-07:00

Here is part of our dance photo shoot. We still don't have all of our costumes and competitions are coming up fast . . . The girls are getting excited, especially Ainsli because this will be her first competition. They have both grown so much this past year, both physically and in ability. So, I hope you enjoy the pics as much as this proud mama does. :)

Recent pages and therapeutic thoughts

2011-03-15T00:22:00.001-07:00

I've been in need of some scrapbooking therapy and its working again. These are the only two pages that had recent pictures, so I thought I'd share. I love taking photographs, but when you take the time to really study them (which I do while I'm tinkering in Photoshop) and remember the story that is there to tell - it makes it so easy to remember your blessings.

I was reminded of how truly blessed I am while working on these pages. I don't need to worry about what others think . . . My children love me, my husband adores me, and my Heavenly Father is constantly blessing me. They don't care how much I weigh, whether I cry too much, or whether my clothes are out of style. I remembered that they love me for who I am inside and I need to learn how to do that too.

Love this Boy!!!

2011-02-04T20:51:00.000-08:00

So, its no secret that Brodyn is a man of few words. Today he said I love you Momma for the first time and my heart melted in a puddle on the floor. He and I communicate really well, and this little guy shows me he loves me all the time, but it was a special moment for me. I love being a mom. My house is a mess because I've been at Brodyn's beck and call for two days because he's been sick. I wouldn't have it any other way - these moments won't last forever so I'm going to cherish them while I can. I love my little man!

time? where did u go?

2011-01-24T15:11:00.000-08:00

Wow! Get sick for a month and you let a few things go . . .

We worked on projects up until Christmas and after as well. I finally finished binding Ryan's quilt that I gave him for Christmas last year - bad I KNOW.

I was determined to get it done and my fingers are barely getting back into the correct shape. (I'm only kidding a little there). . .

We've been making all kinds of bows to sell to help pay for dance competitions. Its not going as well as I thought it would because my girls keep taking them out of their packaging and wearing them so I'll let them keep them . . . sneakers!

We had a nice peaceful Christmas, but now we're back in running mode - speaking of which, we need to leave for dance!

Projects galore!

2010-12-12T12:36:00.000-08:00

Sorry, no pics today, iPhoto is giving me a headache and not being friendly with Photoshop. We're keeping busy with tons of projects that need to be finished and sent to family. I'm still not done with all my orders from the craft fair, but I'm close. I had a photo shoot yesterday and it went good - the first time I've done pictures in the family's home.

Brodyn is sick, so we had to stay home from church while Ry and the girls went. I've got Wubbzy on so that I can get something done. He's such a sad little guy when he's sick, much different from his "norm". I think I'm going to get some cinnamon rolls made before everybody gets home - to surprise them.

We finally got a few presents wrapped and put under the tree so it doesn't look quite so sad. Aubrei had hair issues today, so we had a little drama, but I was able to salvage it with a BIG bow. I have no idea why teenagers think that more product is going to make bad hair better, UGH! But she has to learn, I guess.

Ainsli has had a ball making presents for Ryan - I love that she's been spending more time thinking about that, instead of adding to her own list. She had her Christmas program at school Friday - she did a good job and it was fun to see her with her classmates.

Well, off to start the dough for cinnamon rolls, then I get to play with some chalks - unless my little buddy needs me - we'll see. Having a good day!!!

I love digital!

2010-11-11T01:35:00.000-08:00

While I still love traditional scrapbooking and require an occasional paper fix, I must admit that digital makes accomplishing more so much easier. All four of these layouts were done this week while waiting in my car at the dance studio. Can I just say, I love my laptop. Normally I would be stitching or knitting in the car, but I am definitely burned out on crafts for a little while thanks to our recent Super Saturday. Most of these pictures are older, but their story still needed telling . . .

Happy Halloween here!!

2010-11-01T02:40:00.001-07:00

We had a fun Halloween with parties two nights in a row. The kids looked so adorable this year and really got into their characters. I'm still having headaches and pain in my jaw, plus Brodyn has been up a lot tonight with his sickness. I'm so glad Ry has tomorrow off, cuz I'm sleeping in!

Fall Fun!

2010-10-19T01:05:00.001-07:00

I love that I finally had the chance to take some pics of Brei. We had fun and shared a few giggles too. I love being this young lady's mother - she is such a treasure to me!

my scrap therapy :)

2010-10-06T11:47:00.000-07:00

Here is a recent layout I did - I love it when scrapbooking helps us straighten out our thoughts and emotions. Life seems determined to make us forget our blessings in the craziness of life. I am very blessed and thankful for the hand of the Lord in my life.

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-05T13:04:00.000-07:00

We finally made it to the pumpkin patch this weekend. The weather was beautiful and we had fun searching for the "perfect" pumpkins to add to our pile. The kids always love the hayride out to the pumpkin fields and visiting all the animals. They all wanted to bring a chicken home - In no uncertain terms the answer was NO to that! I love this time of year, all the beautiful colors of fall. The weather is being unusually mild for Wyoming and I'm LOVING that!

Awesome Serves and a Black Eye!!

2010-09-21T22:08:00.000-07:00

Aubrei had a great game tonight against the Eagles. She got to start finally and she played two full matches. She has improved so much, that's my girl, working until she gets something down. Tonight her work on her serves paid off. In the 3rd match the Broncs were down 17 to 24 when Brei got up to serve. She got 2 aces and 7 match points, meanwhile the other coach called two timeouts trying to break her serve and it didn't work!!! Unfortunately they ended up losing the match 24 to 26, but I was so excited anyway! Brei had the hugest smile - its awesome seeing your babies working hard, having fun, and seeing some rewards.

She is growing up so fast! Where has the time gone?

At the match tonight I got Brodyn to show off his shiner. Its pretty much faded away, but you can see it was a good-un. He hasn't been spinning on my office chair this week though, so maybe this hurt had a purpose :)

Happy Birthday Ains!!

2010-09-10T12:46:00.001-07:00

Its hard to believe our hurricane is 7 years old! This morning she got dressed in her favorite cowl-neck sweater dress and I curled her hair - she then squealed "I'm gonna be the prettiest girl at school!" Oh boy - She definitely keeps us entertained and on our toes.

She requested chocolate cupcakes for her party tonight, but I'm also making peach dream with the yummy peaches we got in Oregon on Monday. Yum!

Ainsli will always be my miracle baby who helped my testimony of prayer grow in leaps and bounds. She is now on dance team, doing ballet and gymnastics - but she'll always be my little girl no matter how old she gets! She still lets me cuddle her once in awhile, probably just humoring her old mom, but I'll take it!! Happy Birthday Angel!!

Our young woman

2010-08-19T22:40:00.000-07:00

Aubrei is 12 years old!! Where has the time gone? Seems only yesterday that this tiny bundle changed our lives forever and now she is a young woman. She can fit into my high heels and soon she will be taller than me. She's playing volleyball and on dance teams, and she is the best big sister I have ever seen!!

This picture was taken on Sunday, her last day of Primary and the day she had an interview with the Bishop. I don't know how we got here so fast, but I couldn't hope for a better daughter. I am so proud of the young lady that she is choosing to become. She may be super silly and slightly crazy, but I love to hear her laugh and to be around her. She has blessed our lives in so many ways and we are so thankful that she is with us, working toward the blessings of having an eternal family. Love you Suzy!!

summer rewind

2010-08-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

It took me getting sick to make time to work on pictures and scrapbook pages. Summer has been wonderfully full. Brodyn has loved snacking from the garden, catching and observing bugs and spraying his sisters with the hose! Ainsli accomplished riding without training wheels and is now zooming up to the school and back daily. The girls traded rooms and got the TV taken away and it has been Awesome since! Brei is excited for 7th grade and volleyball to start.

We've been fishing several times - this page shows the only day that no one caught anything. It was the most beautiful of all the trips though, so can't complain! The kids love fishing with their dad and I love watching them all together and taking pictures.
Ry and I are doing good. The gardens are thriving - we've canned lots of green beans and one batch of dill pickles. Ryan recently won a $750 Home Depot card - so we'll be doing the girls bathroom and Brodyn's bedroom - I'm so excited!

Despite getting sick, I'm feeling so great. As of two weeks ago I had lost 20 lbs. in 3 weeks. I love my new doctors and how much they are helping me. All of my pain is gone and I have so much more energy! We are so blessed and now to prepare for the upcoming school year and all that it entails!

making the most of summer

2010-07-11T14:09:00.000-07:00

We had fun with a group of friends at the equestrian center on the 4th. Brodyn kept us entertained while waiting for fireworks to start, he's such a ham! It took forever to get out, but it was worth the fun we had!

When we got home from our trip this was waiting for Brodyn from Grandma & Grandpa Priest - He had a ball trying it out. He definitely thinks he's big now!

Sweet Baby Bragen!

2010-06-28T11:38:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun with Beep's new little bundle. He is so tiny and content. I had forgotten how little newborns are, has it really been 3 years? I got my share of loves and cuddles, but miss them already! He is such a miracle and a blessing to our family! This picture reminds me so much of Dad's baby pictures - love it!

There are more pics on my photography blog . . .

What a week!

2010-06-27T23:11:00.000-07:00

My baby boy turned 3!!!

And he's turned into a little man overnight - I'm not ready!

We got to spend some time at Beep's in Oregon, meet new little Bragen, and love on him lots! He's so tiny and adorable - and kissable! We miss them all already!

We spent time at Grandma & Grandpa's house - the kids had a ball swimming, doing chores, and playing. Its good to be loved!!

Can't forget the water fights!

so ready for summer vaca!!

2010-05-22T10:54:00.000-07:00

The afternoons that Ains doesn't take a nap are near unbearable. She has been so tired lately. We are all ready for summer vacation and a more relaxed schedule. Brodyn has patio rash on his nose and top lip. He's biffed it twice in the past three days. Pictures to come. OK, now he's hurt his knee . . .

i love this crazy life!

2010-05-16T22:47:00.001-07:00

We made it through recital week, but it will be a while before I post about the recital - I had a photo shoot yesterday and have been working on those (I took 271 photos in 1.5 hours, have to narrow it down a bit :). And tomorrow we have big plans to do our garden and I am definitely ready to plant some flowers!

But I had to share some pics of Ainsli in her jazz costume. I got her to do the "OK" pose, because she was too fast during recital for me to catch it. I love her attitude and the enjoyment she gets out of life. She makes me smile and we all need that.

I think Brei is really ready for summer - homework is becoming almost painful for us all. Having her nights so busy with dance this past week has made it hard to keep up, but she did her best and I am so proud of her. She did so good in the recitals. Her smile lights up the stage and its just fun to watch her. I'm proud of all the work she did this past year.

Brodyn was a trooper, being farmed out all week or stuck in a theatre. I love having a little boy who needs his mom and likes to snuggle. (sorry Ry - he doesn't snore:) I am so very blessed and loving this time in our crazy life!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T11:23:00.001-07:00

Here's hoping that all Moms get to have a happy day today. It makes me smile that I have a little boy who adores flowers - he's so happy - I love it.

My semi-sweeties :) (I do have a preteen after all) surprised me with a patio chair, a corsage and some Wonderful artwork by my 3 favorite artists!

Mother's Day is a truly important holiday - So many women have truly touched my life and made it so much better. My mom has taught me so much and I love her with my whole heart. I remember special women who helped me get through our infertility by letting me "mother" their kids once in a while. Those women who helped me through my crazy teenage years. And women who helped me as I grew into my own role of mommy. Now I have my own little girls who dream of being mommies themselves someday. We are so blessed to have such an important role given us by our Heavenly Father. I am thankful to be a Mom.

Aubrei did so great at her competition yesterday - we didn't get home until midnight though - so I was thankful everyone slept in. I even got breakfast in bed (score one for Daddy)!

Happy Mother's Day!!

Trying to Keep up . . .

2010-05-04T23:09:00.000-07:00

Lately that has been a big part of my life. Trying to keep up with my family. But this past weekend I realized I'm also trying to keep up with the changes in our kids. They are all going through growth spurts (I'm so thankful its almost summer - shorts are more forgiving). But there are so many more changes in their little lives. While change and new horizons are exciting, its hard not to wish time would slow down a bit.

I wanted to share a recent scrapbook page. I love how fast digital scrapbooking is. Definitely thankful that I can at least record our special memories so these times aren't forgotten.

Can we please slow down?

2010-04-22T00:38:00.000-07:00

Here is a little catch up since life has been crazy the past two weeks.

Ryan got a basketball hoop for his birthday (ironically he has to keep his boot on another 4 weeks because he re-injured his foot jumping into the pool to save our fearless Brodyn). But we've still been able to enjoy playing in the backyard - it had been a long time since I played basketball . . . .

Ainsli got to pick a reward during a recent assembly and of course she came home with a PINK and SPARKLY bear. She was beaming from ear to ear, then promptly fell asleep mid-sentence! (She gets that from her Dad:)

I've been busy editing another shoot from the girls dance photos. They are up on my other blog if you want to see them. I'm also working on a family recipe book - I'm trying to take pictures as I make the recipes that I'm including, but I'm finding its hard to fit in a photo shoot for food when your family is hungry and ready to eat (go figure:)

Brodyn has been sick with a sinus and slight ear infection - so he's been stuck to me like glue. Which makes for some interesting moments. It would be hilarious to have pictures of me trying to work on the computer with him hanging over my shoulder and him jumping on top of me as I'm TRYING to fold laundry. He is SO worth it though - being a mom is the best thing in the WHOLE world!!!!

Happy Birthday Sweetheart!!

2010-04-01T23:32:00.001-07:00

I hope you have a good day today. You deserve it - thanks for all you do for our family. Thanks for being an amazing dad and a wonderful husband. We love you and want you to know we think you're a pretty great guy.

Fifteen years you have been right by my side. We have weathered a lot and no, that doesn't make us "old", it makes us "better". I love you with all my heart dear. Happy Birthday!!!

we made it . . .

2010-03-30T21:44:00.000-07:00

. . through our first dance competition. Brei did a great job. I'm so proud of how hard she works at things. We got to spend a little quality time with Grandpa & Grandma. The kids loved it, but it definitely wasn't long enough. Brodyn got quite attached to Grandpa - it was sweet until bedtime :)

We also made it through the first attempt at sibling pictures that we've done in a long time. Unfortunately we didn't get a good one of all of them. Brodyn was quite put out with his sisters and didn't want to sit that close to them. Yes, its funny NOW.

I made it through another pain-filled day and felt good about what I accomplished. I love having the kids at home to snuggle with (which is only happening because it is cold and rainy today). They are all so perfect in their own individual ways.

Loving tax returns and new backdrops!

2010-03-26T18:15:00.000-07:00

I absolutely adore this picture of Ainsli - I didn't let her keep the Spring picture packet that the school does, so I promised I would take pictures of her when I got my new backdrop. What a doll . . .

pretty good for after-school hair. I can't believe she left it in for once!

Brodyn had to get in on the action too. I'm so lucky that my kids don't mind being photographed, because then I'd have no one to practice on. Here's to the start of our spring break - yeah!

iTunes and pickles

2010-02-03T11:03:00.000-08:00

B and I have had a silly morning - listening to music and doing a little dancing. Its so nice to have a little man to dance with (hint hint Ry):) Then during an opportune moment while I was doing laundry my industrious little man snuck upstairs and emptied the pickle jar and brought them down to show me carried in his shirt. Lovely. Nuf said.

my happiness . . .

2010-02-03T10:53:00.000-08:00

I love getting scrapbook stuff and pictures in the mail - so when the package is digital scrapbook pages I've had printed plus pictures I'm a happy girl!

Our bathroom is finally finished and I LOVE IT!! The colors and the vanity are my favorites. A definite change from the bathroom that everyone avoided. Ryan is amazing - 3 jobs and he still manages to finish all of this in record time!! Love ya, babe!

This is why kindergarteners shouldn't have homework!

2010-02-03T10:38:00.000-08:00

This pic explains what most of my afternoons are like. She's a smart little cookie, but she is also a stubborn little girl, who thinks home should be play time (by the time the homework is done I tend to agree with her)

did I mention?

2010-01-26T18:23:00.000-08:00

That our 6 year old got bored while cutting Barbie hair so decided to cut her bangs AGAIN. I thought that we were done with this 3 years ago, but apparently not. Luckily they are growing out fast because its hard trying to fix her hair in a way that hides her bangs. I don't think she will do it again, however, because she has been quite embarrassed this time around. Don't miss the mischievousness behind those gorgeous eyes :)

our drama . . .

2010-01-25T18:35:00.001-08:00

We are almost done with the changes we're making in the house. Its a good thing too, because I'm tired of the messes that we are finding and also the ones we are making. I'm loving the changes we've made. Tonight we'll finish off the bathroom and the last closet door.
A lot of things got put on hold or at least slowed down a lot starting last week when Ainsli got sick. Major ear infection with pink eye to boot. Now B has it and is a very unhappy little fella. Friday morning we got in an extra visit to the doctor when B fell off the Bowflex and busted open his mouth in a couple of places. The picture above is 4 days after the fact - it was bad. So swollen and sore, plus the $100 glue they used didn't work, so I'm praying it doesn't get infected. The next day he was up on it again, I guess I should be glad that he's back to his old self?

Thanks Bybees!

2010-01-25T18:26:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a VERY Merry Christmas!

2009-12-26T14:00:00.001-08:00

Here are a few tidbits of our Christmas morning. I have to say, that it was one of my favorite Christmas mornings. We all made gifts for each other, which made the day more about our love for each other and not who had what. We have so much to be thankful for and my family tops that list! I hope you have enjoyed spending precious time with your families this Christmas. I'm looking forward to tomorrow when Ryan gets a few days off - he's exhausted and we've missed him. Merry Christmas everyone!!

pj tradition

2009-12-26T13:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas eve ended on a fun note as the kids opened their pajamas that I had made for them. I may be biased, but SO CUTE!!!

An elect lady

2009-11-14T14:37:00.001-08:00

Grandma was such a loving and strong woman, its hard to believe she is gone. I miss her so much already. Seems like I've cried all day. I'm glad she is no longer in pain. I can just imagine how fast she is moving without her body holding her back. Its nice to think of where she is - if anyone deserves the highest degree of glory it is this marvelous woman.

Quality time

2009-11-05T22:32:00.000-08:00

So thankful to be able to spend time together outside. The flower beds look so much better.

So technically we are ready for winter, but

I don't want to be.

Happy Halloween!!

2009-10-31T19:45:00.001-07:00

We didn't have snow this year, but we still froze! Our princess, dinosaur, and pirate had fun trunk or treating at the school - but were so tired and cold at the end that there were no complaints about going home!

Happy Halloween!

My kind of wall art!

2009-10-23T10:20:00.000-07:00

All it takes is an old barn window, a little elbow grease, paint, hooks, and my latest scrapbook pages to make this lady SO HAPPY!

When we finally got it done and up I couldn't stop looking at it - I smile every time I walk into my craft room, and that is really good for my creativity :)

Sorry Ry, but I couldn't help but share this photo. This is Brodyn's excited attempt at wearing mascara. So cute. But not as cute as the ten minute conversation between Ryan and Brodyn about how "Boys do NOT wear makeup".I couldn't stop laughing when B responded with "Uh Huh!"

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-18T20:58:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how crazy fast time is flying right now. We're past our first big round of sickness, hopefully we'll be good for awhile. A few weeks ago we visited the pumpkin farm and went for a hayride out to pick our pumpkins. We had fun and got some good pumpkins, but fun was soon replaced by drama when we got home and Brodyn wanted Ainsli's pumpkin because he could carry it around.
I couldn't resist taking a photo of his pout. He's becoming very determined and demanding of what he wants. It doesn't help situations when I giggle because he is so flippin' cute!!!!

the Riddles

2009-09-30T10:28:00.001-07:00

Cindy is my scrapbook buddy. Her family is absolutely adorable - we had fun doing this photo shoot at the Old Iron Works place. Thanks guys!

School pics

2009-09-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share some of the pictures that I took for the beginning of school. We got some fun ones and I found some neat old buildings that made our picture shoot fun! Its really getting to me how much our kids are growing up . . . I'm just not ready, but I wouldn't miss a moment. I've been very blessed.

Stitching -

2009-08-22T09:44:00.000-07:00

I've been getting a lot of stitching projects done in preparation for the craft fair, plus a few projects I want to try. Ainsli decided she wanted to stitch again, so I got her project out . . . I can't believe how good she is at only 5 years old - I love sharing my hobbies with my girls. Tonight Brodyn will probably help me paint - he loves that, too bad he's so messy :)

Aubrei is 11!

2009-08-22T09:36:00.000-07:00

Even though she is growing up way too fast, I'm glad we have an 11 year old who is content with staying little and being a sweet, innocent girl. She had a fun birthday and a wild sleepover (I guess I remember being a giggly girl too).

We registered at the Jr. High yesterday and we had a mini-tour. Can I mention that I hate lockers? My hand still hurts from trying to get that stupid locker open :) I was starting to get worried, but Brei was finally able to get it open on her own.

The school is so nice, and taking the tour seemed to help her relax a little.

So now I guess we are ready for the 31st to come.

Ainsli lost her 1st tooth!

2009-08-22T09:28:00.000-07:00

She was so excited that she lost her 1st tooth! As you can see, she had been crying (I think the blood freaked her out a little). Ains is so excited for school to start. Yesterday in Walmart we were getting school supplies and she introduced herself to a little girl and found out they were going to be in the same class. Then we had a little scream and dance session in the aisle and Mommy wanted to hide, but had to calm Ains down instead while trying to keep Brodyn from falling out of the cart. Oh, the joys of shopping with your kids. . . .

Summer Fun!

2009-07-23T20:05:00.000-07:00

The kids loved the carnival this year! Poor B had a sore neck, but he's such a trooper that it didn't slow him down much. I did this collage for an assignment with my Jessica Sprague class -so fun!

photo editing

2009-07-12T16:12:00.000-07:00

I've been taking a photo editing class and this is the last project I did. I love how it turned out. This is the house Grandpa Harris was born in (in Albion). I love the old-fashioned TTV textures and the brush.

Happy Birthday Grandma!!!

2009-07-08T09:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Grandma!!!

We all love you so much and hope your day is great!

Brodyn wanted to make you a cake

But he was a little too much help

It was yummy though!

Thank you for loving us and always being there.

You are an AMAZING grandma!

Happy Birthday!

Brodyn is 2!!

2009-06-25T15:49:00.001-07:00

Its hard to believe our little boy is already 2 years old!

He is absolutely full of fun and mischief -

He gives the best loves ever -

And he makes us all completely happy!!

Happy Birthday Sweet Boy!

Happy Birthday Paka!!

2009-06-10T21:30:00.000-07:00

To the COOLEST grandpa ever!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

(Not to mention the BRAVEST)

We wish we were there to help you celebrate!

We love you! Thanks for being so special!

Have a great day!

MAY catch up?

2009-06-09T17:02:00.000-07:00

Whew! I guess I need to become more accustomed to craziness. May was jam packed for our family, but it was also full of fun. Lets see if I can remember it all . . . .

We were able to celebrate Grandma Harris' 80th birthday with her. It was so neat to see so much family that I haven't seen for 10 years or more. It turned out so nice and the kids had a ball in the bouncy house. I hope Grandma felt special and knows how much we love her!

I'm glad we were able to visit the resting places of our family members on Memorial Day. Its hard to think of how long they've been gone, but its important for us to remember the love we shared and the impact they had on our lives.

This was the first time I'd seen Grandpa's headstone. It looks just right - I miss his laugh.

Aubrei got two medals for her science fair project. 1st place in her category and 3rd overall! We are so proud of her!!

Then we had 5th grade graduation. She is growing up so fast. I'm not ready to send her to Jr. High!! I'm thankful that she is such a good girl, she really has a special spirit.

Then we got a taste of summer . . .

And the rains came!

Mommy!

2009-05-09T15:22:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about how much I love being a Mommy. I marvel that Heavenly Father has allowed me to be a part of these precious miracles. Its hard to believe that Brei is almost 11. It seems like yesterday that we saw her for the first time.

I hope my Mom knows how much she means to me and the appreciation I have for all that she sacrificed for me. She is a pretty special lady!

Have a special Mother's Day!

Our Dancers!

2009-05-04T14:18:00.001-07:00

Saturday I took dance portraits at Studio 48. It went well and we got some great shots. Of course, I may be biased, but I'm pretty sure our girls were the prettiest there!

We're looking forward to recital in 2 weeks and then having a break.

Brodyn has been a little sick, but he's such a happy little guy, sometimes you forget. Ryan finished the hallway and now he's moved on to painting the laundry room. The wind has been blowing like crazy, ugh, but atleast we don't have snow!

2009-04-24T14:44:00.000-07:00

I did another photo shoot with Allie. She is the cutest baby and loves to smile for the camera. We tried to get her big brother Zach to pose too, but he just wasn't into it. Thanks guys!

DIY projects!

2009-04-20T10:42:00.000-07:00

We've gotten so much done this weekend. Ryan had a four-day weekend and it was so nice to have him around. The kids have been in seventh heaven. Friday night he even took all three kids to the Hannah Montana movie so I could work on my Photoshop class with peace and quiet. He's a keeper!!

We've had a few home improvement projects that have been on hold because of life, but we've gotten a lot done this weekend. The downstairs hallway finally has all the new doors in with new moulding and baseboards. The trim is almost all painted and then we're painting walls. I love crossing things off of to-do lists, so I'm a happy girl!

Brodyn is a happy boy helping his Dad. He never puts his hammer down, which is interesting at nap-time, but I love seeing him following his Daddy around!

Happy Easter!!

2009-04-12T18:55:00.000-07:00

Today has been a special day for our family. Our focus has been on our Savior and all he has done for us. Even the Easter Bunny left an egg for Brei to find by our pictures of Christ. Ry gave a touching talk today in church on the Atonement. We are so thankful for all that Jesus sacrificed for us so that we can work towards eternity as a family. What an amazing gift!

We had an eventful night dyeing Easter eggs. Aubrei accidentally spilled two cups of egg dye, so we had some sad moments, but things worked out and we had fun decorating and in Brodyn's case, eating eggs with shells on.

Ainsli modeling her new dress and putting on her 5th layer of lip gloss from the Easter bunny.

Aubrei hunting Easter eggs, she is such a big help and growing up so fast.

The Easter bunny brought Brodyn a new tool table. He has been in 7th Heaven since Ry got it put together. His sisters have been enjoying it as well. It is such a blessing to have everyone healthy and see them so happy. I cherish all of these memories.

For Easter Ryan gave me another Photoshop Elements online class. This is the first project and I had so much fun doing it. It partially showcases our new kitty, who has fit into our family really well! (too bad we still haven't picked a name for her yet!)

What happened to spring?!

2009-03-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

This is what our world looks like today. No school, roads, everything closed. Police are even out giving tickets to people driving unnecessarily. Crazy! Ryan, Brodyn & I are still sick - Yuck!

But the bright side is that we've just been cuddling inside our "igloo", glad we don't have to go anywhere or do anything. Definitely a weird way to end spring break!

Digi goodness!

2009-03-02T19:51:00.000-08:00

I am loving my photoshop elements. After being sick for 3 weeks I've gotten a lot of projects under my belt. Here is my most recent and it was so fun!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T10:14:00.000-08:00

Brodyn really enjoyed the HUGE caramel heart Grandma & Grandpa sent for Valentines Day!

It was the first thing he tore into and he wasn't letting it go. Even when he started coloring his card, the caramel heart was never far away. Thanks for the awesome package Grandma, we felt the LOVE!

2009-02-10T14:13:00.000-08:00

This is how Brodyn is helping us to work toward our resolutions. Such a helper!

When Ryan saw Aubrei putting bows in Brodyn's hair He decided it was time to give our special boy a hair cut! Silly kids!

2009-01-19T17:27:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed our "No school" day. Mommy supervised Daddy putting up the new closet doors (and had a few laughs in the process). We played everything from Barbies to dress-up, to cars and blocks before it was time to leave for gymnastics. We need more days like these.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-03T16:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!! Its hard to believe that its 2009 already, WOW!

Its been so nice not to have to go anywhere, especially since we've had so much sickness and yuck in our house the last 2 weeks. Most of us are feeling better, just in time to get back in the swing of things on Monday.

We had a great Christmas and thought we'd share a few tidbits. . .

on Christmas Eve we eventually got to open pajamas (daddy got called in to work, unfortunately). The kids had a lot of fun and went to bed tired and excited for Santa to come.

Aubrei adores the beanbag Grandma & Paka got her. Ainsli first noticed the special barbie that Santa had left for her, and Brodyn loves the farm that Santa brought him.

We have been so blessed and its nice to be able to share these special times together. It was fun watching Brodyn catching the excitement of everything.

2008-12-21T20:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary Dear!!

Its hard to believe we've been married 14 years already.

We've been so blessed - I'm glad I get to share all of this with you!

To celebrate we had cake (Brodyn loved the frosting), Ryan cleaned out

the fridge for me (isn't he awesome?!), and then we made 3 batches

of raspberry jam to share with our neighbors and some to enjoy for us too :)

Santa!?!

2008-12-21T20:35:00.000-08:00

These are the Santa shots we got at the church party last week. They were excited to get to see Santa this year (as you see, Brodyn is the exception), but unfortunately Santa had to compete with a visit from Grandma & Paka, and even Santa doesn't hold up in our kid's eyes!!

We made sure to get in lots of cuddles and loves that only Grandma and Grandpa can give. They even got to open a present each. The girls got beautiful Christmas dresses and Brodyn got a John Deere trike that he got to help Grandpa put together. You can tell that your kids have awesome grandparents when they cherish your children and make them all feel special and loved. The kids were in 7th heaven, thanks Mom & Dad - We Love You!

Christmas catch up

2008-12-21T20:13:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how fast this month is racing by me! I haven't posted for awhile, so I thought I would share some pages from my Christmas scrapbook to catch up a little. Of course I'm behind on my scrapbook as well, but that I'm going to blame on the sicknesses we've been trading around in our house the past two weeks.

1st day

2008-12-01T15:54:00.000-08:00

On the 1st day of Christmas we cut our Christmas tree!

I can't believe it's December!

I finally got my 25 Days of Christmas album outline done last night, so I'm up and running with my Christmas scrapbooking project

(I'll post some pics later).

This is today's picture. We went up on the mountain to cut our

Christmas tree.

All the off-roads were blocked with snow, so we had a harder time finding a tree than usual, but the girls had a lot of fun with Ryan and it was just nice to be together and get away.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-26T22:06:00.000-08:00

It was tough, but I finally was able to get some good pictures of our yeahoos. I may be biased, but I think they are pretty darn adorable.

I cut both Brodyn & Ainsli's hair this morning, then I straightened Brei's hair, so they looked liked they all literally got older before my very eyes. (I wish they would stop that).

Aubrei is becoming such a beautiful young lady. I am very proud of how hard she works at school, plus she is an amazing helper at home. I don't know what I would do without her.

Its the perfect time of year to let her know how thankful I am that she chose to come to our family through such miraculous means. She has a gentle, loving spirit and has touched many, many lives already. I am thankful she is such a special daughter and a great big sister too!

I want Ainsli to know thankful I am to have her in my life. I'm thankful for her strength of spirit and her enthusiasm for life. She is such a good example to me. She is doing very well in preschool and is such a great big sister to Brodyn. She is always looking out for those she cares for.

Brodyn is a light in my life. I'm so thankful he still needs his mom and wants my cuddles and loves as much as I do. I've experienced enough to not take this special time for granted.

I guess I'm thankful for Ryan too :) He was so tired tonight, but he stayed up to finish the dishes and grate the apples for apple roll so it wouldn't hurt my hands. He is such a sweetheart. He makes me feel cherished even when I far from deserve it :)

See, I have all this and more to be grateful for, I just need to take the time more often to stop and remember all that I have been blessed with. Heavenly Father knows exactly what I need and he has blessed me so much more than I will ever feel worthy for, so I'm also thankful that's not how our Heavenly Father works. I hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving!!

I'm thankful for you!

2008-11-26T21:44:00.000-08:00

This is Brodyn's most common look at the moment "Guilty". He thought it was most unfair that I wouldn't let him eat the bread crumbs I had torn for stuffing. He thought he was pretty sneaky laying on the table sneaking pieces of bread. As a mom I am thankful that my kids still think that if they cover their eyes no one can see them. It works wonders at catching them in the act!

I even saw him proudly showing Ainsli what he was getting away with!

We were all happy to see the arrival of our "birdie friends", as Ainsli calls them. While Ryan and I like that they eat all the crab apples, the kids love watching them. I still don't know what kind of bird they are, they seem so big sitting in our tree, the other day we had close to 20 sitting among the crab apples while we were watching Aubrei walk home from school.

Cindy & Allie

2008-11-15T11:51:00.000-08:00

Cindy and Allie came over today for a mini photo shoot. It was so much fun - what an adorable little girl. We got some great shots for her birth announcement. I thought I'd share a few of my favorites!

Bathtub fort

2008-11-15T11:45:00.000-08:00

This post is for mom. Here's B playing in his new favorite place, eating his favorite food. He's such a silly boy lately. He makes us all happy.

2008-11-15T11:37:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite pictures. There is nothing more important than supporting and being there for your loved ones - no matter what. Dad is so good at this, he has always been in this role in our family and I'm thankful for his protection and his support.

2008-11-15T11:31:00.000-08:00

At times like these I want to make sure to focus on how sacred family relationships are and that we should cherish them and try to always make them stronger. I'm very thankful for my family - we're not perfect, but our love for each other is.

Experiences make us stronger

2008-11-15T11:22:00.000-08:00

I had been planning to post some pictures from Grandpa Priest's funeral after I had finished some scrapbook pages, but things have been too crazy gearing up for the craft fair next week. So I thought I share some thoughts and my favorite pictures before the memories fade.

The hardest part of losing Grandpa for me was seeing how it affected Dad and Aubrei. Its tough not knowing how to help someone you love who is hurting. I was so thankful we could be there to try and support him. I really think it helped him having Aubrei there, they have such a special relationship and she is so tender-hearted.

2008-11-11T09:28:00.000-08:00

Last week was parent's week at Studio 48. It was fun watching the girls & Ryan in action.

Brodyn didn't like being left out, especially in the gymnastic classes when he saw his dad.

2008-11-01T20:35:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite pictures of our little tricksters. We were at Sagebrush Elementary for their trunk-or-treat before we headed over to the church. We got a lot of fun comments on their cute costumes. Brei & Ains got upset that so many people thought Brodyn was a bear instead of a monkey - so Brei started swinging Brodyn's tail around (silly kids).

2008-11-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

Here's a pic of my sillies after they finished one pumpkin mess. We had so much fun.

Today I'm thankful that Halloween fell on a Friday so that I didn't have to try to wake these guys up this morning. We had a fun night, but it was a late one. The girls have already gone over their candy and I've already noticed their castoffs in B's bucket. He doesn't mind - he loves suckers - anything STICKY actually.

I'm just trying to figure out this blog - so more posts soon I hope!