The Atkin Family

Christmas 2011

2012-01-03T17:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning!!!!
I have to admit, I was a little surprised that my 4 super excitable children didn't wake up at 4:00 AM, like they usually do! Maybe it was the threat,"If you wake up the baby ,there will be NO opening presents until AFTER CHURCH!" I guess threats do work!!

We went to the Christmas tree around 6:45 and whata ya know?... Santa came!!

*We said our prayer and had a Christmas scripture (I like doing this before the unraveling of the gifts!)

I think everyone was so happy! Christmas Day was spent with one hour of church ( I can handle that!!) and at home with my family! We had the Christmas mess, Christmas dinner ,games,naps, treats,and talking to our families. All around it was a wonderful day!

*** I pulled a fast one on Tyler this year!!****

Tyler is an easy person! He doesn't expect much or really want much for that matter. I on the other hand I'm possibly on the other end of the spectrum.... There's always SOMETHING I want! So, this year I really wanted to surprise him with something good! Our good friend Mike is a lieutenant and he helped me find and pick out the perfect gift for Tyler-A handgun!!! I hate guns, but my husband loves to go shooting with the guys. And I guess its guy code,that every guy needs a gun. So with Mike's help he (I ) purchased a gun. I have to admit I felt pretty dang cool, walking out of the gun store with a gun!! I'm also nominating myself for "Wife of the year!" Anyway, Tyler knew I was with Mike a lot during the week, and was on to my motives.He really thought he was going to get a gun for Christmas! I knew that he was expecting something great, and wonderful for Christmas! When Christmas morning rolled around, all he opened up was a pair of slippers!!! There was definitely a look of disappointment!! Then after breakfast, he asked me, "why the heck I spent so much time with Mike." Poor guy! Not only did he just get a pair of slippers (that were to small) but his wifey of almost 11 years is out hanging out with his best friend!! hmmmm!!! (wink.) It took all my self- control not to give him his awesome gift,but waited until the children were in bed. I pulled a package out from under our bed, and said,"Looks like Santa forgot something!" He was completely surprised!!! Too say the least,he has LOVED his Christmas present!! Merry Christmas to you all and Happy New Year!!

Saying Goodbye is Hard.....

2011-12-26T13:59:00.000-08:00

There was some fun to be had.....I adore this guy!! I couldnt have asked for a better companion!!!
Jewel and I,after dinner we treated ourselves to CUPCAKES! And they were DIVINE!!!!
Saying Goodbye.....My dad with his girls!!!
Each of us was lost in our own thoughts...But we had each other! I couldnt have a better,more supportive dad!!
Spreading my moms ashes over her favorite pier....
Saying goodbye....

"We can do hard things!"....The 5 of us at Rubys Pier!

Tyler and I ....we did have a LITTLE FUN!!
A while back, I asked Tyler," What would we do if my mom passed away?" This may seem like a fairly odd question for some. But, I haven't seen my mother in nearly 18 years. So, really its not that odd of a question.I'm not sure if that was a premonition or glimpse. About a week later (after we got home form Arizona) I got a call from my aunt, who lives in Florida (which I haven't seen since I was just small.) I could hear in her voice something was wrong,very wrong. I knew before she even said the words,"You're mom has died." I'm not sure how I knew,I just had a feeling. Its the kind of call you never want to get,regardless who it is.Its just sad and hard. We talked for a few minutes and hung up. At first I felt numb, than quickly my other emotions took over and I was just so sad. The kind of sad that makes you cry endlessly. I knew the day would come and I always wondered, how I would feel.Not knowing really what to do I called my dad. My dad has ALWAYS been there and is kind of my rock! I told him the news and he too was very emotional and taken back. I had to call Jewel as well. She too, was grief stricken and sad.

Over the next week, we had to make all sorts of plans and arrangements. When my mother left,years ago she left not just us,but her old life and old friends...basically everything and everyone. We were the ones that felt responsible. I think we also felt there needed to be some closure after so many years. After many calls to the coroner, police department, funeral planner, and her manager of the apartment she rented ,we decided we needed to go down to California and pay our respects.When I say "We" This includes my sweet,supportive dad,Tracy (my step mom) Jewel and my husband. We meet the following week to Newport beach.

The next day Jewel,Tyler and I went to the coroner's office to pick up her belongings and get the key to apartment.The coroner told us it looked like she died of an overdose.She did however,go peacefully with out a struggle. Words cant describe how each of us felt at that very moment. This made it very real for me. My mom really was gone. I would never talk to her again, and any hope of ever seeing her was gone. It made it very final.The next step in this very long day,was to go to her apartment and clean it out.

I think each us knew this was going to be hard. I don't think we really knew what to expect.My mom broke her back several years ago,and has never really been the same since.I think she lived in constant pain and discomfort and this is when she started taking and depending on the pain medication, to get her through her day. Since she was on disability she lived in a small,government funded apartment that helped and aided those with disabilities. We walked into her apartment and we were instantly in her world now. We browsed through a few of her belongings for a bit and it seemed like it was going to go smoothly and fine. The guys left to go get boxes and garbage bags,and we started going through everything. The more I went through her things the more upset I became. She had led such an unnecessary,sad life, all due to bad choices ,that led to hard,sad consequences. I think Jewel and I thought we would find some piece of us in her world and truth be told, there was very little.When she left us at a young age, she also took all the pictures,and journals that we had. I was in hope of finding those.The more we unloaded her boxes and stuff, the more I realized what I wanted wasn't there.Almost every drawer I opened, was full of empty prescription bottles.Some were full of meds most were empty.She was living in so much pain. She had dozens and dozens of letters to herself about improving her life, and forgiveness. There was countless pictures and letters to her partner she had left us for.It was so sad. I stared to feel like we should not be the ones picking up the pieces of her life. I became hurt and mad and soon, the built up frustration and anger came out. I had hot tears streaming down my face that I could not control. I wanted to take a torch and destroy what was left of her place.My family let me cry the hurt, away before they stopped me.I was about to single handily destroy her small living place on my own. We stopped digging through her belongings to take a time out. Lunch was needed and a Diet Coke!! We decided this battle was to much for us to handle emotionally and physically on our own, and we needed some help. We got in contact with the bishop of her ward and he sent the Elders Quarm over. What a relief! What a blessing. At this point we no longer wanted to read and go through her stuff, but just wanted to get it cleaned out and to be done. The Elders Quarm came and we had a few small boxed of things to "keep" but the rest we just threw in black garbage bags and sent it to Good Will. I felt so sad that in the end she had left her family, for basically NOTHING! It took us all day and into the night to pack,clean and throw away her life. I think I filled up a whole garbage bag of prescription bottles. Not something I wish to remember.When we were done this was a weight lifted from our shoulders, we did it! This was one of the hardest things I have ever (emotionally) had to do and I did (we) did it!I think we all knew that this particular day,was going to be the hardest.We went and grabbed some comfort food (good 'ol Me Me's cafe!) The day was over.This day was hard challenging, draining, but we did it! TOGETHER!! Oddly enough,this experience and this journey made us all so close to one another. I needed them and I felt they needed me as well.

The next day we had some time to kill ,as we waited for the whole cremation process to finish. I went and ran the board walk, and it was awesome!! We spent some time at Fashion Island, had lunch, laughed, and cried TOGETHER and than went to pick up my "mother" in an Urn.This too made things FINAL once again. I was holding my mother in an URN- such a feeling I cant put into words.My mother loved the water and the ocean. She had lived by the water for 15 years.Her wishes were to have her ashes spread in the water. As a family we walked up New Port Pier,to say our final goodbyes. We said a sweet prayer to rest her soul. With tears in our eyes,Jewel and I took a turn saying our goodbyes and watching her ashes go into the water.We were all very emotional. Jewel,my dad and I took some time to just be with each other and cry it out.Each of us want to remember the way she WAS, and not the way she became. Even though I have not seen her in years, she was still my mother.

I am beyond grateful for my father,and his love and sacrifice. I am grateful he and Tracy were they 're to support us through this journey. My family is the most important thing to me! The atonement is very real. I know Heavenly father loves us all. He is the perfect judge and has mercy and compassion for us. I am grateful for this gospel. I cant imagine not having it as part of my DAILY life. Life throws curve balls, but with the Saviors help we can endure it all. This I know to be true.My mother is no longer in pain. She is no longer hurting from her sins and years of bad choices. She's with her Father in Heaven that loves her.This brings me so much comfort. Our family motto is ."We can do hard things!" This too I know....I can do hard things!!!

Thanksgiving in Arizona

2011-12-25T18:33:00.001-08:00

Yes, we had just gotten home from our fun, filled trip to Disneyland, when it was time to pack it all up AGAIN for Arizona!! This time, we took Hudson!! :) Have I ever mentioned how I HATE the drive to Arizona?In case I haven't said anything for a while...I HATE THE DRIVE TO AZ, ESPECIALLY with my 4 (very sweet children!) But we managed.I drove part of the way and missed getting on the 20 (twice) and I guess my driving skills were less than great. Too say the least, the drive to Arizona almost caused a divorce due to my driving!!( not really,but still!!)

Anyway, we stayed at the Atkin house in Chandler and had such a great time seeing all the cousins and family. I love being surrounded with family! The kids had a blast! We went to the park everyday, I ran everyday, we shopped, went to the temple lights with both sets of families eat,and spent time with both of our families. We really just had the best time!

I love being with our families. I love Thanksgiving and being surrounded with those you love. I must love them ALLOT,FOR THAT DUMB drive is killing me!! Happy Thanksgiving to our sweet families. I love you all so much ,and you all are my favorite blessings in my life!!!

This year the Thanksgiving feast was held at John and Addies house in Queen Creek! They really are the BEST host!!

We did S'mores at grandmas....
Walker enjoying a mouth full of S'mores.
Hudson was fearless and relentless around the fire! (Big surprise!!!)
I think I have a picture of all of my kids in this laundry room sink!! I have got to get myself one!! I think this was Hudson's 3rd bath that day!! He is our BUSIEST baby...EVER!!!!
Lilly and Libby...
P.J and Ella....
Hudson and Ella enjoying a lap of luxury at the zoo with cousins.Wouldn't it be nice to be pushed around all day!!?
The whole gang at the zoo!!!
Walker.....
Starting him early!!! I have no idea why Tyler is letting him drink caffeine. He's already a maniac!!
Cousins,cousins and more cousins.....

Disneyland

2011-11-22T16:50:00.000-08:00

DisneyLand was PERFECT!!!!
The kids loved the Bumper cars. I'm still suffering from whip, lash after riding with Walker!
My 3 trouble makers!
The Christmas decor was AMAZING!!

Ella with her "Brown bear!"We took a break and took a dip in the pool!!!

This was right after riding THE TOWER OF TERROR!!! This is such a cool ride! And I was so surprised at how well the younger kids did! They LOVED IT!!! Who am I kidding...I Loved it!!!
Ella obviously couldn't ride the roller coaster, so we did this instead!!

Tuesday Day 2

We met up with the fantastic Reid family! We laughed. We went on LOTS of rides. We ate. We laughed some more. We were obnoxious!! And it was super fun!!!

Mom and Lilly in Toontown!!! PEACE!!!

Meeting Minnie mouse!!!Lilly went on almost EVERY RIDE, except California screaming. She just wasn't tall enough. (And she was not happy about it!) Next time!!

I was really surprised how well she did on all the "BIG" rides! She was awesome!!
Walker being Walker!!!!

All the kiddos! They all had so much together!
My beautiful Heather! I don't know what I would do w/o her!! It was nice having her! Both Ella and Noell are almost 4 years old, but still came up too small to go on some of the rides. It was awesome having Heather to hang out with!
The whole gang!!!
I LOVE each of these girls!!!
Walker and Adney....the are SUCH BOYS!!!
Pixie Hallow....adorable!!! Ella and Noell and TINKERBELL!

Pixie Hallow and Tinkerbell's friends!
Walker and Lilly on Buzz lightyear!
Disneyland!!!! Day 1 *****Yes, I know this is out of order!!!

Woke up nice and early, said our goodbyes to Hudson.Yes, we left the 18 month old,walking terror HOME w/ a babysitter!!! Why Would we do that? Because, WERE SMART!!!

Anyway, our plane left nice and early,so we had oodles of time to play (and play we did!)We ate lunch and then headed for the park for a few daylight hours! By the end of the day we were all pretty tuckered out!

A smiling Walker on the Jungle cruise!!!

A smiling Lilly on the Jungle Cruise!!
Ok....He's such a ham...... He even said, "Mom take a picture of me!"
Ella on the Winnie the Pooh ride!! She's such a little "peanut" she couldn't go on all the "BIG" rides. But she still loved it!!
Mom w Tiger and the kiddos,....
Here's proof they like each other...At least at Disneyland!!!

Meeting Cinderella was such a highlight!! Isnt she perfect!!

Cinderella even got Walker to pose,Like a Prince!!!

Disneyland was sooo beautiful! It was decked out w all the Christmas decor.The weather was PERFECT and the lines.....What lines?!!!! This was the perfect time to go !!!

Peanut with her Prince!!! Actually,he's my prince!!

Halloween Half Marathon

2011-11-08T18:30:00.000-08:00

Medals, water, fruit and smiles at the FINISH LINE!!! and BLOOD,SWEAT AND A FEW TEARS!! Our first Half Marathon!!!
Jen and I at the finish line!!!
I was so happy to see Tyler there!!! Cant ya tell!!? I think someone yelled, "Get a room." YES PLEASE!!!
I am so Excited to say I ran my first Half Marathon!! Its something I've always secretly wanted to do,but never thought I would or could! I started running with a few of my friends in June. It started out as a simple run of 3 miles, and getting better over a few weeks. I think once we started actually getting better at this whole running thing, we were quit impressed with ourselves! That's when the talk (while we were running) came about of actually doing a half marathon!

We set our calenders( the Saturday before Halloween) to run the Provo Halloween Half.We started running/training over the summer and that meant shorts and tank tops. Now that the seasons have changed, I needed a whole NEW set of running clothes.( wink ) So, after a few hundred dollars worth of Cold Gear -Under Armor clothing to keep warm in the cold,I was ready to go!!

The race stared early up Provo Canyon. There was a great energy all around us and it was really fun to be part of something so big! People were dressed up for occasion! Some weirder than others! I think there were almost 3000 people running this race. So TONS of people everywhere! Corinne and I ran the whole way together (bless her heart!) She's a great running partner. Jen and Lacie just kind of TAKE OFF... good riddens to them!!! I had plenty of energy and my body felt great.The first 8 miles went fairly fast! And No ankle pains! Provo Canyon is beautiful (Its my favorite) and to run down it in the fall, with the crisp air and the changing of colors is amazing! Anyway, I started to run out of fuel at mile 12.Needless to say, Corinne and I crossed the finish line at 2 hours and 10 minutes (or something close to that.) We ran the whole way! There was such a sense of accomplishment. I Wont lie, I think I shed a little tear at the finish line!

It was hard, fun,exciting, tiring and exhilarating. I was thrilled to see my friends (Jen and Lacie) at the Finish line and so happy to see Tyler there! Were were all just giddy after the race! So now our next stop.....A MARATHON!!!! Just one!! Were going to do this together and I'm excited ( Tyler is less than thrilled.) But I have LOVED running with these three other inspiring women! I have LOVED practicing something, and see my self get better. I have LOVED doing something I never thought I could! I have LOVED pushing myself to extreme tiredness! I HAVE LOVED RUNNING!!!! Who knew?!!!

Halloween

2011-11-08T09:55:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween from Our little Deputy! We thought this would bring Lt. Brower a few laughs!! Isn't that cute?!!
Happy Halloween from a Baseball Zombie,Little Police dude, and 2 sweet and sassy withches!!!We couldn't get over how cute he looked!!!Or maybe its so dorky that its cute!? I"m a little biast!!

Annual Packer Halloween Party- 2011

2011-11-01T11:42:00.001-07:00

Big Chief & Indian Princess
If you know these two,they are the BIGGEST and most FANATIC BYU fans you have ever met! So this was a big deal for the Parcells to be dressed in RED and not BLUE!! They were awesome!! Go UTES!!Always OVER THE TOP, Jay Packer & Staci with their side kick John & Kristin!! ROCK ON...KISS!!!

Sitterudes and Atkins A.K.A....Danny and Sandy hanging with Big Chief and his Indian Princess....
Chiangs- Matt dressed as an Asian women (just gross) and Rachelle as a white trash trucker (even grosser!) I swear Rachelle is a really beautiful girl..... But here she was honestly hard to look at! Love you Rachelle!!

Indian Princess with white trash trucker....Becky as a dead lady killed by Jack the Ripper!!
Every year we look forward to the Packer"s annual Halloween party! And every year it gets better and better.I'm already thinking of what to be next year! This year was no disappointment! The food was good (cafe Rio salads.) Entertainment ( KISS) It doesn't get better than KISS!! Games ( Minute to win it!) And as always boys vs girls. My husband (Big chief) gets so competitive! Everything was really fun! I usually became such a SPAZ at these events. Good thing were surround with OTHER spaz like people and those we love,right?!! Packers and Koyles, you did a great job. We had a blast! Until next year!!!

Pumkin Patch

2011-10-31T16:25:00.000-07:00

The whole family enjoying the fall...
Messy face and all......
BUSTED: These two really do LOVE each other!!! I have the picture to prove it!! (haha)
Fall/October would not be well....fall and October without going to the Pumpkin Patch,right?! Pumpkin patches are the most "fallish" things you can do during this great time of the year! I was lucky enough to go 3Xs this year! Yea for me!! I went once with Ell's preschool class,Once w/ Lilly's class and than with our family! The kids each picked out about 5 pumpkins each = about $45.00 worth of pumpkins! Once again,YEA for me!!! But guess what? Our front porch is full and decorated with PUMPKINS!! There is just something fun, festive , and "fallish" about pumpkins!

Fall fun activity

2011-10-31T13:11:00.000-07:00

All the kids, hangin out at Cornbellys... Thanksgiving Point
Hudson and I went down this slide about 20Xs...He loved it!!

Our cute Lilly!!!
She was Petrified after these haunted houses....PETRIFIED!!!Walker and his buddy Trey. These two shot BB guns and went through the corn maze!

Lilly has her dad tied around her little finger!My 3 little ones!!! Poor Hudson, he's "girl trapped."

Thanksgiving point in Lehi is one of out favorite spots to take the kids, to do some kind of family fun activity. Over Fall break we did all sorts of fun things including, going to Cornbellys at Thanksgiving Point. It was a perfect day outside and they all had a great time. Walker, Trey and Lilly thought they would be brave and try out the Haunted Dragon. I went in with Lilly and then we came right back out....Lilly screaming and crying! It scared her to death. The boys THOUGHT they were tough,but they came out minutes later!!

They had a scary circus tent and for some reason Tyler thought Lilly and Ella would like it. WRONG, AND WRONG!! About 30 seconds in to it both Lilly and Ella were having a freak out (mainly Lilly.) There were scary clown heads dangling from the ceiling and weird circus music going on. Seriously,it would scare a grown man!! They will never look at a clown the same way again. Clowns are just freaky!!! Other than the Haunted house terrors, we loved everything else! Lilly won a hula hoop contest, the boys went through the corn maze and did BB guns, Ella dressed as a princess, and we ate snow cones and Carmel corn. Later for dinner we ate In-n-out for some fries and burgers (this was the boys choice!)This is such a fun way to enjoy fall!!!

Provo Canyon

2011-09-23T08:18:00.000-07:00

Despite the looks on "somebody's" face... (Ella) we had a really fun time!!Mission accomplished.....4 sleeping kids all tuckered out!!! What's better than that?!!

One thing about living in Utah that I absolutely love, in just a few minutes you can be out of the city and in one of Utah's beautiful canyons. I love Provo Canyon! I think its beautiful. I love Bridal Vail Falls and all the great parks surrounded the area. We thought it would be fun, on Labor Day to pack some lunches and ride bikes through the canyon and just enjoy being outdoors. It was a really fun way to spend some fun family time! The kids loved it! On our way home we stopped at the River woods and got my very favorite,Rocky Mountain Chocolates. They have the BEST Carmel apples EVER! They"re not your average Carmel apple, but covered with your choice of topping! I LOVE THEM!! The kids got ice cream and we played around the River woods for a bit! It was a really fun day. I kind of felt like we were on a vacation of some sort! Utah is so beautiful in the summer and the coming of fall.There's so much to do within minutes from home!

My first race

2011-09-11T14:31:00.000-07:00

Jen and Lacie finished about 58 minutes and Corinne and I were about an hour!Before the race!!! Yes, we were WAY early for the race!!

I've started running with a few of my friends for a few months now. I've been wanting to run for a while and heard that these 3 girlie's were running at night, so I invited myself to tag along! The first time I ran with them was 3 miles. I really thought I was going to die. And they TALKED the whole time. I was wondering how on earth am I going to keep up with them and have a conversation at the same time? Little by little and with practice and running about 3X's a week, I've gotten better! We're now running almost 9 miles and have decided to run the Provo Half Marathon in October! Over Labor day we ran our 1st 10k in Payson! I'm not fast by any means,but I finished without stopping (with Corinne at my side!) Its been fun to see my progress and to get better! I have really enjoyed getting to know these laddies better! I'm able to run and actually have a conversation with them! I've caught the runner's high and have made 3 great friends as well.

Ella's first day of preschool

2011-09-11T14:13:00.000-07:00

Ella has patiently been waiting for preschool to start! She's been watching Walker and Lilly leave every morning for school and just wants to go with them! Now, it was finally her turn and she was excited!!She got dressed quick and easy and was super happy!However, when we pulled up to Mrs. Tiffany's she got a little less excited and by the time we reached the door to her class, she was ready to go back home! First day jitters!! But she did really good! She didn't take hold of my leg with a vice grasp (Like Walker did!) and she didn't cry in hysterics

(Like Lilly did!) Oddly enough, she was my easiest!!

Preschool goes from 9:00 11:30 (just long enough for me to clean up the kitchen, get ready for the day and put Hudson down for a nap. When I picked her up and asked if she had fun,she said "Not really." All this waiting for school start and all I get is a ,"Not really!" I guess we"ll wait and see how day 2 goes!! Mrs. Tiffany has had 3 of my children now, and they ALL have adored her!! She's a great teacher and really loves these sweet preschool kids! Day 2 will be on Tuesday. Should I expect another "not really" day -or the usual crying and screaming kind of day!?

Ella all ready for preschool.....

She was super excited for Mrs. Tiffany"s class!!!

Zions Trip

2011-09-08T15:03:00.000-07:00

The whole clan,after our hike!!
Yes, I hiked with Hudson the whole way!!!
Swimming is the best after an afternoon of hiking!!! Actually,swimming is just plain the BEST!!Walker and Lilly swimming!

Walker and his mighty muscles on the slide!!! I'm so glad I dont really have to worry about him in the water. He's turned into such a great swimmer! I have a hard enough time keeping track of the other 3. Its exhausting!Steve and Gabe doing a "Whos wave/splash is the bigger?" Hmmm...its a close call guys.....
But I think Gabe won!!!! *****ACTION SHOTS!!!!******
Just havin fun in the pool!

Lilly's favorite part was the zip lining! She absolutely loved it!
My favorites!!! I love these two!!
Horseback riding! I didn't get a picture of all us girls on the horses. All I can say is, I was so sore the next day!!

Back in March (for spring break) we had a great trip planned for Zions with the Reids and Swasey family.When we got there, it was covered in snow and freezing weather.We stayed one night and packed up our stuff, and had our spring break in warmer,more "spring break weather"-St.George. We basically had a voucher they gave us to return to the resort,and that's exactly what we did. This time around, we decided to just get ONE BIG CABIN AND ALL OF US STAY TOGETHER!!! We had the best time! The cabin was big and beautiful and fit us all comfortably.The kids had a blast picking their room and sleeping all over this beautiful cabin! The "BIG" kids a.k.a the "adults" had a blast staying up way to late just laughing our guts out and hanging out! Not to mention all the food we ate over the weekend! Zions was packed full of fun activities, food, and laughing until my stomach hurt! Over the weekend we hiked beautiful Zions, swam, zip lined, went horse back riding, bungi- jumping and just hung out!!! It was really a fun trip. I love these friends!

1st day of school

2011-08-23T15:55:00.000-07:00

Walker all ready for 2nd grade!!!

Lilly was a little nervous,but so ready to start 1st grade!!!!
Our "BIG" kids,going to school ALL DAY!!!!

Miss. Lilly all ready to begin 1st grade!!!
You know your ready for school to start when all your children do from morning 'til night is pesture and fight with one another.

Its time for school to start when their little brains start turning to mush....

When their summer clothes are getting too short and small

When Lilly's hair is the color of the sun rays...

When we ALL are in need of some kind of schedule....

When the kids are sick of going to the pool....

And bums are the color of Ivory and thier back sides look like like they belong to another race....I do love that!!

It was time for school to start at the Atkin house .

Walker started Second grade. Lilly is now in FIRST ! Ella will be starting PRE-SCHOOL in a few weeks.

Tyler gave all the kids a wonderful Fathers blessing on Sunday,before school. What a specail gift to be able to do that! The blessing were perfect and I felt comforted knowing my two oldest will be gone,out of the house ALL DAY!!! There was a special spirit in our home when Tyler blessed each of them.

Walker and Lilly were super excited for school to start. And so was I!! They both woke up early, and were dressed and ready to go! lets see if they're still doing that in December!!! They both seem to have great teachers and were really looking forward to a great year!!!

BYU FANZ...

2011-08-18T18:56:00.000-07:00

Walker as one of the BYU fans!!! He's excited to go to the games and have the season start!!
Peyton and Walker....The ladies man!!!!
Walker loves sports and loves BYU sports even more!! He really loves anything anything BYU. I'm not sure where he gets it, but its fun for him! He went with his friend Peyton to meet the new BYU football players and the team. He got his favorite BYU hat signed and autographed by all the players. He thought it was pretty cool. He got a big grin when I asked if any cute cheerleaders were there! I'm glad he had fun!!!

Baptism Day for Walker

2011-08-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

A beaming mom ,walker and dad!!! Cant you just tell he has the Holy spirit with him now!!! (wink)....
The Passey grandparents and the Atkin grandparents and....Great Grandpa Atkin!!!!
I never thought the time would come to baptize Walker. One reason,he said "NO" for so long and that he didnt want to get baptized. And two,its just come so fast! For what seems like forever we've been talking with the Pynes about doing a double baptism with the boys. They're only 10 days apart and have grown up at each others side.Of coarse a double baptism seemed like a perfect idea! With Uncle John in army ,and knowing in the near future they would possibly be moving SOON, we didn't know if it could all come together. But it did! And it was so great.

The night before (Friday) I finally got diagnosed with Tonsillitis. I say finally, because I had previously gone to 2 different doctor's here in town and they just kept treating me for something I didn't have. Therefore, I have been feeling like crap for almost 3 weeks, THANK YOU MORON DOCTORS!! Anyway, I went back to my great Doctor in Orem, and he took one lookie and said,"Looks like Tonsillitis." I got a shot in my bum and a prescription for antibiotics and was out the door. THANK YOU GREAT DOCTOR!!! Needless to say, I was bed ridden and sick the day before the baptism ,and the Pynes were living in a hotel until they can close on their house in Arizona. Great timing ,right?!!! Thank goodness my family was here in town,and they just took over while I slept! THANK YOU GREAT FAMILY!!!

We had a lot of family come from mostly out of town. It meant so much to us have our families here.

We had Grandpa Pyne and my dad do the talks on baptism and the holy ghost. They did such a great job and the spirit was so present there! Grandma Pyne sang a song she wrote about baptism and it was beautiful!

I'm so proud of Walker for making the choice to get baptized! He was beaming when he came out of the water! He's such a fun boy to have around. And I'm so excited to see what he's going to in the future! Being baptized really is the first step! We had a great day with family and friends. We have such wonderful people in our lives. I just feel blessed!!!
Walker and Patriot were so proud of the boys your growing up to be!!! Keep making these good choices!!

The month of Parades

2011-08-07T17:52:00.000-07:00

Claire,Ella and Lilly enjoying the Pioneer day Parade in Spanish Fork,
This is so cute too me!
Ella and Dad.....

Lilly and Claire...
Lilly,Claire, and Grace cheering it on . Go High Altitude cheer and Tumbling!!!
Peace out Walker!
In the 10 years Tyler and I have been married we have managed to attend ZEREO parades. I guess you could say we were the kind of people that avoided parades. Really who wants to get up at the crack pf dawn for a good space on the side of the road? And fight the traffic and lets not even mention the heat of a parade! So to say we went to three parades in a month is an accomplishment of the some kind!! And to admit that I now Love parades! Lilly was cheering in her first parade over Pioneer day,in Mapelton. It actually was a lot of fun! (Except for the car ride home ,when Hudson barfed all over the car.) We also went to the Provo days parade in....Provo with a few of our friends. And last but not least the Spanish Fork days parade in....Good 'ol Spanish Fork! I love the crowds and the fun energy of supporting your town and yelling and cheering for the people you know on the floats. I forgot how obnoxious I am capable of being!! Its actually fun!! It was so much fun watching Lilly cheer down Main street and having such a good time! I have had a change of heart!

Mr. Mess

2011-08-04T08:23:00.001-07:00

A now content and happy baby,after enjoying a fudge popsicle that "someone" gave him to keep him quiet!!
He looks more like Jack the Ripper.....
We all adore Hudson. When Hudson wants something he GETS IT! With 3 older siblings around, he's learned how to manipulate the system, and get WHAT he needs/wants! His system is whining until he gets his wish. If that doesn't work than he'll scream and cry ,and that usually get results. All the kids in the neighborhood had fudge Popsicles. Hudson really wanted one! Being a veteran mom, I knew what the 1 year old was capable of doing with the fun,chocolate treat!! We were getting ready to leave for dinner and getting the car loaded up and I was looking for Mr. Hudson. I found a child that resembled him, but covered in sticky,chocolate mess. Now who would've given him that? I got a whole bunch of,"not Me's" and cleaned up a happy Hudson!! He's too spoiled for his own good. But Just look at his face....Its hard to say "NO."

Walker's 8th Birthdady

2011-08-04T08:15:00.000-07:00

Walker has been on a count down for his birthday party. He really wanted to go Lazier tagging with his buddies.We had (8) 8 year old boys with more energy than I care to remember!! And I heard the words,"balls,and Penis" more times that I care to count. ( ahhh,Boys!) Good thing he wanted to go play lazier tag! They had a great time and we celebrated with an ice cream cake and for Walker's choice, dinner was at IN-N OUT burger with the Pyne family!!

Look whos going to get baptized!!!

2011-07-26T11:49:00.000-07:00

Just a few of Walker's baptism pictures. I think they turned out pretty cute,but I know I'm a little bias!
Walker will be 8 on Friday and soon to be baptized!!

I never thought I would have an 8 year old!! For years Walker would tell us that he "wasn't going to get baptized" and that he "didn't want too."I knew deep inside he would change his mind. And that he was just nervous. I believe in giving my children choices. They may not like their options for their choices, but they always have a choice! We were not going to force or make Walker get baptized,but to let him make that choice on his own. The past few months he's changed his mind, and is so very exited to get baptized and receive the Holy Ghost. Turns out, he was just scared that he was going to have to sing in front of a crowed and people would make fun of him. Who knew,right!

Walker is very tender hearted and has a really special spirit. ( I know you usually say people that are "ugly" have a "special spirit or a "sweet spirit".) I think I've always been that "sweet spirit!".... But he's still pretty cute with a "special sprit". Walker tends to feel the spirit really easy and loves Scripture stories! He has a lot of faith. I know what the savior meant when he said, "To have faith like unto a child." Walker KNOWS Heavenly Father hears our prayers and answers them. Its a simple thing for Walker to believe.He teaches me something new daily! Walker has a ton of Friends, and I think its because he sees them as all equals. He has such a wide variety of friends. I never know who's going to knocking on the door to play! I love this about him. He's kind to kids in his class that have a harder time making friends. I'm so excited to see him get baptized! I really thought for a while, we were possibly going to have a convert in our family!! Walker is really excited for his big day. I keep telling him to just enjoy that special day and don't forget the special feeling you will feel.Walker is a one of a kind! He's just a good kid and I'm so proud he choose me to be his mom!!! Were really looking forward to his baptism and all the great things in the future!!

Hiking the Grotto

2011-07-16T13:50:00.001-07:00

O'h the joys of being a baby! He gets carried everywhere,food cut up for him, loves anytime he wants it,someone to change his pants,2 naps a day. How nice that all seems... Hudson loved the Nature hike!
The whole family made it!!! It took Walker about 10 seconds until he was completely drenched. I'm surprised he waited so long!!!

Atkin kids and mom....

And yes, Ella is wearing flip flops....Pick your own battles,right??? She WOULD NOT put on her "tough shoes."
Its always fun when dad takes the day off. We packed a lunch,some treats and the kiddos and went to enjoy some of Utah's finest summer, outdoor treats,Payson Canyon . I love Payson Canyon,its one of my favorite in Utah Valley. Its just beautiful and Payson Lakes is a lot of fun as well. I love that its close and the drive is beautiful. I am still in awe that I live in a state where these canyons are minutes away.We really need to take more advantage of that!! The hike is really easy hike,so easy I had Hudson strapped on my chest! Whats another strap on the good 'ol chest? Anyway,it was really fun,the kids enjoyed the nature walk,and we participated in the Great Outdoors!

ALL THINGS LILLY....

2011-07-13T15:47:00.000-07:00

All about our Lilly......Happy Birthday to our Miss Lady......

My Miss Lady turned 6! Its a bitter, but yet sweet thing watching your babies get older.If I had to find ONE word to describe our Lilly ,it would be......energetic.Lilly is full of energy and its non-stop.She lives life to its fullest, and I love it! She keeps us all on our toes,everyday! Lilly runs everywhere she goes. She has friends all over the place and loves all of them. She plays hard,runs fast, laughs often, loves allot, cries at simple things, loves all things girly and is in full speed all the time. She has the cutest,sweetest smile and such a fun personality. Lilly is determined and knows what she wants. Nobody is going to tell her differently! She plays the role well as a loving big sister, to Ella and Hudson and a nuisance to Walker! Walker may complain about Lilly and that he wishes she was a boy,but almost everynight I find them sound asleep in each others beds! Its really the cutest!

Lilly has been my little buddy for 6 years now, and I'm really going to miss my litte shopping buddy when school starts again. She's a lot of fun to shop with and be around. She Loves shoes and all things having to do with make-up. I'll take full resposibility for that one!! She loves going to the Clinique and Mac counter. (I'm going to be hating life when she's a teenager!) She loves her one- on -one time with her mom and dad.She can play Barbies and house for hours. Riding her new bike is amongst her favorite things. And arts and crafts is something she adores. She's been doing gymnastics since she was 3 and has really enjoyed it.Its been really fun watching her excell and do well. Lilly is really looking forward to being in 1st grade this year. She's super excited to do spelling words along side with Walker (He's less then thrilled>.) She loves school, and books and I think she's really going to do well!

Lilly is our sunshine in our home. When she's not around, its noticeable.(the noise level goes way down.) I adore this little girl of mine and I'm excited to see what she does in the near future. She'll probably conquer the world!! She's really sassy but sweet.I admire her determination!

Lilly happy 6th birthday! You are so much fun to have around! We love and adore you so,so,much! Just slow down a bit so the rest of us can catch up!!!

Lilly Bug's 6th Birthday

2011-07-10T18:33:00.000-07:00

Because being 6 yrs old requires a mode of transportation, Lilly got a brand new bike for her birthday!!
Lilly and her pose....Seriously, such a cute group of DIVAS!!!
Just having some fun-in the sun....Little Justice wanted in on the action!! He's no fool, hangin out with all the ladies or should I say DIVAS?!!!

Divas, Divas,Divas.......
Elle,getting in the rays.....Queen of the DIVAS!!!!
Happy Birthday Lilly!!!
Miss Lilly had to go and turn 6. I tried to stop her,but she just keeps growing up....fast!

Lilly wanted a water party this year,so a water party she got!! That's whats great about Summer birthdays....Parties outside!!!! Lilly had a list of 20 girls she HAD to invite. She didn't want to leave anyone out. That's one thing I love about our Lilly, she's friends with EVERYONE!!! (she gets it from me!!) WINK!! Anyway, we had 16 little girls here to celebrate,plus a few neighborhood strays! What would our house be if we didn't have a few strays,right!!! We set up the BANZI slide and just let the girls have at it!! They really loved it.It was a really hot day outside and the water and sun felt great. Lilly made out like a bandit on the gifts too! I guess that's what you get when you have 16 little girls over!! I asked her if she had a fun birthday,her reply "IT WAS AWESOME!!!" So I guess it was another success!! Now Lilly PLEASE stop growing up so fast!!! And Happy 6th Birthday!!! We adore you..... and so does Walker!!!

4th of July

2011-07-10T18:05:00.001-07:00

The 4Th of July is my favorite holiday! This year was no exception. We started the day off by going the Provo day Parade. I tried to talk the kids out of going, but they wern't having it! So we high tailed to the parade with a few friends. I'm not a huge fan of parades, but we had a good time.My favorite is the annual "Cul-desac of Fire" Get together. The "cul-desac of Fire" consist of friends, neighbors, lots of kids, BBQ in the in cul-desac, water games,fireworks, explosions, fun, and great company. I forgot to mention ,theres ALWAYS the unexpected! We had lots of friends come and great food. The fireworks my neighbors put on are better than any city show!It really was a great day! And so fun!!

Now, when I mentioned before about the UNEXPECTED..... At the end of the night there was a huge stash of used fireworks in the middle of the cul-desac. The kids were putting all the stash of "used" fireworks in the middle . I guess there were some that weren't used yet. Now when you mix matches, bug spray, fireworks and about 20 mischievous kids you get the UNEXPECTED!!! There was a HUGE explosion and fireworks going in EVERY direction. I'm really surprised someone didn't loose their hand, finger or even a head!!! Once we did a head count, and made sure everyone was OK, we laughed. We had a fun filled day celebrating our country's Birthday! Happy 4th America!!

Aunt Addie with Hudson and Justice!!
Cute Jen Brower.....
Walker, ready to water slide it up!!!!
KIDS, KIDS, AND MORE KIDS!!!

I love that all the men are surrounding the BBQ.....

Kimmy and Addie....I'm so lucky to have her!!

......Accidents happen......

2011-07-03T18:23:00.000-07:00

The next morning,after the accident.With her new pink and purple cast.Ella has been such a strong, sweet heart during this whole thing. I had her sleep by me ,so I could cuddle and be near her through the night. I think she's going to milk every last drop!!!

Last week Walker started swim lessons, amongst other summer activities going on, it was BUSY. On Wednesday, we were loading the car up after swim lessons, Loading up I mean the stroller, swim towels,water, and my 4 children! I opened the door to load up Hudson in his car seat and Walker started yelling,"Mom,Ella's finger is stuck in the door and there is blood."I closed the door and wasn't prepared for the amount of blood that was coming from my Ella's hand. Her fingers were gushing out blood, and the middle finger was hanging on by a thin thread. Walker was screaming and crying, Ella was screaming crying, and I think I was too. I remember looking at Walker and wanting HIM to TELL ME what TO DO.Then I remembered, I AM THE MOM HERE and Its just me with my small children.Lilly just happened to take my cell phone that day to her friends house (I'm still unsure why she took it.) The one time I desperately needed a phone, and I didn't have it. I grabbed Walker's beach towel and wrapped Ella's hand in it to control the bleeding. The thought came to me that her finger needed to be in ice. I stopped at Glades Drive-in and demanded a cup of ice.I got her finger in ice and headed for the Insta-Care ,that was just a block away. They were unable to treat her there and I was sent to next hospital in Payson. I was able to call Tyler and tell him to meet me at the hospital. I think he could hear it in my voice that it was serious. Unfortunately, he was about 45 minutes away in American Fork. .I once again loaded up my Ella and headed to the next hospital. I had Walker in the front seat and he was white as ghost and crying. He held my hand and we sang Primary songs to try to have some kind of spirit in the car, The whole time I just thought,"Please Heavenly Father let her be alright." I told Walker to just keep praying for her. By the time we got to the Payson Hospital, Hudson was asleep. I told the other children to stay in the car and watch a movie, as I took Ella into the Er.A few minutes later a nurse walked in with my other children. It was crazy and hectic as I tried to balance a hurt Ella, an emotional Walker and my busy 14 month old,Hudson. The Dr.s at this hospital were able to numb her finger and get her comfortable. But we still had the problem,her finger was barley hanging on and the bone was sticking out.Nobody on call felt comfortable enough to work on her finger. By the time Tyler got there, they were about done with Ella. Our next move was to go to Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake. We needed a specialist and surgery. What a nightmare! By this time, I was a complete emotional mess. Tyler finished up the paperwork at the hospital and I took the other kids home and tried to figure out what I was was going to do with the other children.I really couldn't even think straight at this point. There was blood all over my clothes and my car. I felt so responsible for this. I wished I could take away her pain and have it be me.

When I got home I text my neighbors daughter to see if she could come and watch my kids while we take Ella to the hospital. Within minutes her dad was over at my house ready to do whatever was needed. I packed a small bag for Ella and when Tyler got home, we left for Salt Lake.By now, Ella's fingers were numbed and bandaged and her pain stopped for the time being. Thank goodness! There is NOTHING worse than watching your child immersed in pain and there's nothing you can do.The surgeons at Primary Children's were ready for us as soon as we got there. We met with a few surgeons and specialist and they needed to do surgery as soon as possible.They did everything to make her comfortable by bringing in a movie, and stickers, stuffed animals. They really are the best. It was so hard watching them put her to sleep and try to figure out how to mend her finger. I had to leave. I just couldn't handle it.Tyler who must have the"stomach of steel" stayed and supervised the whole surgery. The surgeon was able to re-attach her finger,but he didn't seem very hopeful that her body was going to accept it. In fact he gave us a 25% chance of her finger actually making it. Not a great percentage. I was so sad for my little girl.

Back at home,my wonderful friends and neighbors took control of my home and children. I couldn't have delegated a thing at this point. But my dear friends knew EXACTLY what I needed and took charge. What a blessing! Each of the children were well taken care of and plans were made for them to sleep over. One of my neighbors even had a HOT,HOMEMADE MEAL for us when we arrived home at MIDNIGHT. Seriously,who does that?!! I dont think I mentioned, that Tyler and hadn't eaten all day, and forgot how hungry we were when we got home. I don't know what I would've done w/o them. A couple hours later,Ella was allowed to come home. Her whole hand was in a very uncomfortable looking,pink and purple cast. The doctors and surgeons told us to expect a lot of pain,long nights and even longer days. But she has been such a trooper!

Once the word spread around to our families and ward members the support and love really came through. We had dinners made, and gifts,sweet notes, and prayers. We felt such an out pour of love. As a family we prayed allot. As a mother of a hurt child, I prayed every minute I could.We asked all our friends and family to pray for our Ella. She had a priesthood blessing. We did a special fast for her. Ella never complained of any pain....NEVER!!! She has been a happy little girl, with a big cast on. Not having her in pain was such an enormous blessing. There is nothing harder than watching you babies suffer. And I know through prayers she was able to be pain free.There was such a sense of comfort in our home. We could feel the prayers of our loved ones. I could feel the love my Heavenly Father has for me and my family. We are watched over, and loved. Ella was going to alright,regardless of the outcome.

Through a lot of prayer and some guidance,I found a Orthopedic Surgeon that specializes in children's hands. Tyler took her to follow up appointment, I stayed home and waited. Tyler said the appointment was "an adventure." BUT the surgeon was really optimistic that her finger was going to be OK. Its obviously going to be deformed, but it looked as if it was going to be functional! I cried tears of joy,relief and thankfulness. She still has a LONG road to recovery and its not going to be pretty. We had to change her bandages last night and I literally passed out just by looking at it. Her poor finger is black, and looks dead and mangled. But its going to OK. Were still praying for her full recovery.

As a mother , I wish I could take away her pain and have it be upon me. I would do anything to take it away. I am so grateful for the out pour of friendship and love we had. I have amazing people in my life.We have wonderful families. We have the gospel and the power of the priesthood. I cant imagine this trial without the priesthood, prayer, and our Savior....what a blessing! I know trials make us stronger and as a family we really united and came together. Walker did his first fast on Sunday and made it through the ENTIRE day! It was hard for him, but he did it! We were so proud of him. The spirit is so present in our home. I never want it to go away! Just a thank- you for all your prayers. We felt every one of them!I can still say,I don't love trials. I don't even like them, But I do love the closeness it has brought

me toward my Heavenly Father. It has forced me on my knees in prayer and fast.Our thoughts and prayers are still for Ella in hope her finger will mend. Thank you all so much,for everything.

10 years= Hawaii Trip

2011-06-18T18:37:00.000-07:00

For our tenth anniversary we took a trip to Hawaii! We had the best time! Just a warning:picture overload!!!!

After we took a morning run on the beach, we headed out to some snorkeling. This was probably one of my favorite things to do. The water is warn, the sun is hot and the fish are cool. Not to mention how hot I look in snorkel gear!! While we were in the warm water (its not California, were the water is cold!) A seal came out to play with the other snorkelers!! How cool is that?!! After spending a couple hours in the water we were water logged! I could do this all day,everyday! I loved it! I wish I had an underwater camera. Next time,right?!!

Like I said, I'm pretty hot in snorkel get up!!!
The seal that came out to play!!!!
I just think that is so cool!!! He wasnt afraid of the people,he just wanted to bask in sun as well!!!

One of my favorite days was our Safari day. We got up early, and met our group and guides that drove us to the site that we would be kayaking at. I was a little apprehensive at first. We've done these adventure like activities before in Mexico and they're were a total waste of money. But this was well worth the money. We kayaked down this tropical river for about 3 miles (I cant remember the name of the river.) The guides had great stories of old Hawaiian tales and were knowledgeable of the surroundings. Way fun!! Then we hiked to our next destination. The hike was surreal. We went to the same spots that Pirates of The Caribbean were filmed. And swam in the water. We also saw were Jurassic Park was filmed, and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. Pretty cool,huh?!! Than for the grand finale we zip lined through the jungle and volcanoes! This was the best way to see beautiful Kauai. We had such a blast!

Here's the start of our day,kayaking!!

Mr. Handsome along the hike....
Our natural water spring that Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed! I feel pretty cool that I peed in the same water that Johnny Depp did!!!
Feeling like a kid again.....
The water was really refreshing. This was one of our favorite things we did!!!
Just refreshed.....and ready for hiking!!!

Ready for journey across the bridge to the Zip line!!
View from one of the zip lines.....Isn't that pretty?!!!

Tyler jumping 18 ft into the other natural spring.
Zip lining into the water. I did this like 20 times and couldn't get enough of it!!!
Waterfalls we got to swim in.....

Just some of the beautiful scenery on our hike!!!

Does this look familiar? Pirates of the Caribbean ....
Once we were in Popoui, Kauai we spent the 1st day checking out the beaches, laying by the pool, eating, and really what ever we wanted! It was just a good day! I really tried to "live" up these days on the beach!

Dukes was one of our favorite places we ate at. I got fish there a couple times and I was impressed with my food every time!! So good!! Tyler even liked the fish,and that's really saying something!!
Everyone thought we were honeymooners!!! People didn't believe us when we told them we've been married for TEN YEARS. And its actually our anniversary!! Must be the "clean livin" in Utah!! Or maybe we just look refreshed, and tanned WITH NO CHILDREN!!!

On day 4 it was time to leave beautiful North Shore and on to Kauai.We spent a good amount of time on Waikiki Beach.It had a really different feel and atmosphere than the North Shore. I liked the "country" part of North Shore a lot better than Waikiki Beach....It was just so busy! Our plane to Kauai was delayed 3 hours! Talk about total frustration. I hated spending that time in the stuffy airport. Oh well, what you do!??? But when we got to Kauai I was blown away at how beautiful it was EVERYWHERE!!! This was one of my favorite roads on our way to the resort. I think its called "The Tunnel of Trees>" Pretty authentic,huh?!! It would be raining but when you got to the "Tunnel Of Trees" you couldn't tell at all! This was beautiful!

This picture doesn't even do it justice!! Its funny how quick I got used to this scenery,instead of desert landscaping!!!

Day 3 Waimea Canyon is breath taking beautiful!! We hiked this in the morning and spent a few hours admiring the beauty around us.I didn't get any pics of the the Shrimp truck we would eat at,but I will say this....they were delicious!!!
I thought it was hilarious,that instead of Seagulls they're are Rooster and chickens EVERYWHERE!!!

Flowers when they mate with a bird.....

Pearl harbor submarineTyler feels pretty cool!!!

Just one of the USS Arizona anchors! I couldn't believe how enormous it was
I'm really not posing here...ok maybe just a little! (wink) For reals, it was just windy!!!
We had a hard time saying goodbye to this place!!! It will forever be in my dreams.....
Yes, were the cheese balls that took OUR OWN PICTURE!!! Not bad ,huh
Day 2 was filled with going to the temple and the Polynesian Culture Center A.K.A the PCC. I was told that the PCC was really cool,so we had pretty high expectations. Which,I think were fulfilled. Our good friends hooked us up with not only tickets,but tickets to the fire show, and dinner! It was great! We had an amazing time!!! Pearl Harbor was a neat experience and I'm glad we got to go. It felt really solemn. I learned a lot!

These flowers were EVERYWHERE! I think they were Orchids?! Well, what ever they are I love them!!We spent ALL DAY at the PCC. By the end of the day we were tired. A 4 hour time difference can do that to you!!

My new boyfriend!!! You should see him climb a palm tree!! I LOVED the Samoans!

Day 1 : Since we were up at the CRACK OF DAWN,Because of the time difference we got in a full days of play!!

Turtle Bay was such a beautiful resort!

Swimming after a day of hiking!!
We were the only ones at this secluded beach we found!! Even after 10 years, I still think he's babe~!

The beautiful temple! Its every bit as beautiful as the picture..

1st day there: I was worried that it was going to rain all day. But the rain just comes and goes throughout the day.
Well we made it!! And I'm not talking about the trip to Hawaii,but that its been 10 years!! 10 years!!! I really cant believe it!! I remember when my older sister in law hit ten years and I thought,"we'll never get there." But we did. Its amazing how fast times goes. I wanted to do something great for our anniversary. After having 4 children and a dumb cat I think we deserve something great,right!!? So Hawaii !!! All I have to say is it was EVERYTHING I thought it would be! The tropical scenery, the food, great people, spectacular resorts,wonderful company, activities galore,bronzed skin,fruit drinks by the pool, sunshine with a misty rain, and NO CHILDREN!!! I think that pretty much sums it up!

We did 3days in Oahu up on the North Shore side. We stayed at the beautiful Turtle Bay Resort! I LOVED IT!! And flew to Kauai for 5 days...Which I LOVED even more!!

St.George

2011-06-18T14:58:00.000-07:00

Everybody LOVES dad!!!!
Miss. lady enjoying the pool.....
Ella bundled in sunshine.....
Walker LOVES his snorkeling gear!! I think he was a fish in his previous life!!!

I cant get enough of this cute baby!!! He loved the water!! and is completely fearless!!Ella (with he panties on UNDERNEATH her swimsuit!) Why? I'm not sure...
He just loved being in the water!!!
Our little peanut!!

Its no secret that we LOVE St.George! We were having our hard wood floors redone from the water damage (which is a whole nother story>.) So with the strong smell from the stain, we decided to skip town and head to St.George for the week. School just got out and it was time for a little fun in the sun!! We had a great time. All the kids really wanted to do was SWIM,SWIM, SWIM!! Can you really blame them! So we swam and we ate and then we swam some more! It gives me such joy to watch me kiddos play and enjoy each other!

The BIG 34!!!!

2011-06-02T15:00:00.001-07:00

May for us is busier than Christmas time, But I love it!! We have both our birthdays, anniversary,baseball games, school programs,and siblings birthdays,I think that just about covers it!!! This year we had stomach bugs,Strep throat and water damage on our first floor to throw into the fun loop of May! I'm not sure what is worse the sickness or the water damage! Tyler's Birthday is on the 18th. This year he just wanted to be together as a family. We went to Olive Garden for dinner,did some shopping, and came home and had Strawberry shortcake and ice-cream.

I'm so grateful for this good hearted husband of mine! He's patient,honest, hardworking, fun, and such a great dad.I could make the list a lot longer if I had the time! Basically, were all crazy about him around here! Happy 34th Birthday! I keep teasing him that he's an old man,but really my birthday is just a few days after his, and I'm only year YOUNGER than him. But that year makes a difference,right?!! I'm just glad I get to grow old with this great man of mine!!! I'm lucky!!

Not bad for being 34 years old!!!! (wink)
Can you guess who really blew out the(34) candles?!!!

Our "LITTLE" Graduate

2011-06-02T14:39:00.000-07:00

Lilly with Mrs. Menlove....We love her!!
Lydia,Lilly and Jade .Aren't they so cute?
Kimmy,Sayler, and my Lilly....Ready or not here comes 1st grade!!
I'm such a baby when it comes to the end of the year "graduating" programs. Lilly graduated from kindergarten this year.WHAT?!! They did such a cute program of all the things they learned this year.. I don't know why I get so emotional,but I do. I think its knowing she's growing up....FAST. Kindergarten flew by this year.Even though its kind of a pain , being only 2 and a half hours, I loved having her around. Lilly loved school this year. She loved her teacher, her friends, reading, and writing. She loved it all.Lilly makes me happy and she's such a fun little girl to be with. I just want her to stay my little girl forever!! I love seeing her accomplish things,but I hate seeing her grow up so fast. Next year she'll be gone, and away from me ALL DAY! Now don't get me wrong, there are days when I want to just yell,"YIPPEE!" But when I think it about it,I'll really miss my Miss. Lady around! I just really want to enjoy this summer with her and spend as much time with her as I can (when we get back from Hawaii!) Luckily, I don't think she'll miss us at all. Aunt Jewel and Charlee will be here to entertain!

Anyway, Lilly truly had the BEST teacher this year,that she loved and adored every second with her. Lilly has no problem making friends and being social! She has some of the cutes little Friends that she loves to play with.She is absolutely ready for 1st grade! The question is, Am I?

"Nothing Better Than the Real thing" -U2

2011-05-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

1st stop....Chessecake factory!! Kirstin,me,Cindy, and Matt
Kirstin and I waiting for Bono!!!
Even their stage is amazing! It takes 4 days for them to set it up! We were so excited for this concert!!!
Stage...And were we were sitting! We had awesome seats!!1st song...."Better than the Real Thing." Who doesn't love that song?......Seriously!

I don't even know where to begin on this one! My dear friend ,Kirstin took me as her "date" along with her sister and great brother in-law to the one and only U2 concert. All I really can say is WOW!!!! They put on THE BEST SHOW I have ever seen! Hands down! I've grown up listening to U2 and have always heard they are amazing live. But being there and seeing BONO LIVE is an experience all in itself. I can mark this one off my the bucket list!! They were just amazing. And the energy there was awesome! Kirstin and I had a blast on our "date." I knew every one of their songs and just about lost my voice form singing, screaming and just being annoying! There's a reason why U2 has been around as long as they have and why they have such a HUGE fan base. You can count me as fan!! Anyway, we had a great time at the concert and ate dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. You cant go wrong with Cheesecake factory. After all their menu is like 20 pages and EVERYTHING I've ever had there is delicious! If you ever get the chance to see this band live,do it!!! They're worth it!!!

Mothers day and strep

2011-05-10T12:46:00.000-07:00

We went to Thanksgiving Point,Tulip Festival.However, we left shortly after due to fevers and the chills.
Despite it being the warmest day of the year,a bombing 82 degrees ,Lilly was freezing.Poor Lilly bug!
Signs I know I'm A Mom.....

1.If I smell poo lingering I always check under my nails first! DISGUSTING I,know but its true!!

2.I've had days when I go to the school office several times a day. ex: Walker forgot his lunch, Lilly forgot her kindergarten project, and to sign a release paper!! All in a days work,right!?

3. if I am ready (I mean completely ready) by 10:00, its a good day!

4.I call it Walk-Away-Power ...Let me explain- Its when I pick out 3 outfits maybe 4 for Lilly and she doesn't like any of them. I simply walk away..... Some may call it ignoring my child I call it BRILLIANT!!

5. I own more flats than heels now

6. Diet Coke is a miracle worker!

7.I'm still still having a hard time picking up the same thing 5XS a day! Its still frustrating,but I'm doing better at "picking my battles."

8. Nothing is MINE...I bought a new,lipstick from Clinique the other day. Ella got to try it out first. Hence, it is now all over the bathroom mirror,closet, and my sweet 3 year old. Thanks,Ella it WAS a great color! Key word here is.... WAS!

9.My pediatrician knows me by name

10. I've seen every episode of Wizards of Waverly, Good Luck Charlee,and Dora. And I like it!!!

Anyway, Lilly and Walker came home from school early on Friday. Both of them had red,flushed cheecks, and a fever. Why does a virus always choose Fridays? Poor Ella started complaining of a tummy ache and sore throat Saturday morning. By Sunday, all 3 of them had high fevers, sore throats and horrible attitudes!! Monday, was a visit to the pediatrician for Strep! That was a first for me. Taking 3 children to Doctor, at the same time! I guess I can check that one off my list!! Anyway, that was basically Mothers day this year. It was filled with cries, ibProfin, naps,and snuggles!! That can be #11-Mothers Day is filled taking care of my children instead of thinking of myself!!

Happy Mothers day to all you wonderful Mothers out there! I can think of a few that have been such beautiful examples in my life. And thank you to my 4 children for bringing me more happiness than I ever thought imaginable!!

Beauty and the Beast

2011-05-01T11:48:00.000-07:00

Lilly and Libby with Belle
Walker,Lilly.P.J and Libby after the show!
Just the 4 of us at Sammy's. Its a total college dive,but THE BEST SHAKES YOU'VE EVER HAD!!!
They inhaled their hamburger and shake!!!

On Friday we took the 2 older kiddos to dinner at Sammy's and to see Beauty and The Beast, at the Covey Center. Sometimes,its just nice to spend some time with with JUST Walker and Lilly. There was no chasing a baby around, or having to go and find my adventurous 3 yr old. We had a great time! The Pynes met us at the Covey center with their 2 older ones. We actually got to SIT and ENJOY ourselves! I was pleasantly surprised at how well all of them sat and watched the play. Lilly LOVED Belle's dresses and Walker thought Gaston was hilarious! It was just fun to be able to spend a little well needed time with these two! Well definitely do this again!

Hudson's 1st Birthday!!!!!

2011-04-28T14:31:00.000-07:00

Happy 1st Birthday to Mr. Hudson....Now watch him just destroy his cake!!!
Your only one once,right!!
Its my party, and I'll cry if I want too!!! I really dont know why he's crying!!!
And there you have it....the cake is now EVERYWHERE!!!

Happy ,Happy Birthday Hudson!!!

I really cant believe our sweet,busy,baby is already a 1 year old walking handful!! I have truly tried to sit back and enjoy every second of this little boys life. Except with him, there no sitting back. He's full of energy, and speed!! He's a handful.In fact we call him the miniature tornado! But one thing is for sure, we all love him to pieces. If he wants attention, he gets it!!

I hated EVERYDAY of my pregnancy with him. But what I got afterward was so worth every ounce of pain,ache,anguish and pound! I absolutely love this little guy we call Mr. Baby! I feel like I had an immediate connection with Hudson the second he was born. I have loved holding him as a baby,and watching him sleep. I adore the little baby noises he makes, and the grunts he made as a new baby.I LOVE the little fat wrinkle at his wrist and ankles! His eyes are a light blue, that tell you his whole life story!

Now, he's walking and into EVERYTHING, and he only cuddles when he's tired and ready for a nap. He loves Walker and his sisters.He has to be where the most noise is and where all the action is. But can you blame him?! Our family would not be the same w/o this little guy. Hudson, Happy 1st birthday!! You are loved and adored! You make us happy. You make us laugh. You make us run. You make me tired! And you complete your fabulous family! Your sweet face and smile reminds me of Heaven! Thank you!

Now, Please try to sleep through the night better!! And stay out of the cat food. (He really likes to eat the cat food!) And the toilet- is NOT your private splash pool. Other than that....your PERFECT!!! Love you Mr. Baby!!!

Happy Easter

2011-04-26T15:06:00.001-07:00

The Whole fam AFTER church! This is as good as its going to get!!Church,as always was a real"treat!"
Easter Sunday!!

Spring Break Chronicles

2011-04-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun eating around the campfire;Walker, Tyler, and Lilly.
Hudson's first experience w fire!!!
The cute Reid girls.....They are so much fun!!
Heather, right before "the accident"
Big ,Brown bear!!!
Walker LOVED riding! Too bad I'm DONE with 4 wheelers!! Tyler will have to do some male bonding time with Walker. I'm selling mine!!!!

Doesn't he look sweeeeet in my pink, girly helmet!!?
The ladies.... Feeling cool, confident, and ready to go!

Becky's VIP Ride....PART 2 ....
Hudson joining us for lunch by the pool

Soon to be sun burned Walker.....Sorry Walker! I thought Tyler put sunscreen on him and He thought I did!!! Talk about parenting 101,right!!

Lunch by the pool....
Sun bathing mommas!!! Poor Becky, was in such pain but such a good sport!

The whole crew at the temple: 12 kids,and 6 adults

Our happy family....cant ya tell?!!

Just hangin around the grounds, waiting for the lock smith to unlock the Reids car. I'm just glad it wasn't me!!
Becky's new bff...pain killers
Day 4- Highlights....

* Practically beating Lilly in the temple parking lot for hitting her sister....again( I just about lost it at her.) Not that this was a highlight,but giving her a good spanking IN THE TEMPLE PARKING LOT!!! Then going to watch a "Families are Forever" video!!! CLASSIC!!

*Gabe locking his keys in the car!!!

* Becky drugged on pain pills AT THE TEMPLE!!!

* Cafe Rio lunch at the park.

Day 3

* A much better nights sleep.

* Swimming at the pool all day!!

* Just laughing all day!

*Watching the kids have an absolute blast in sun!! Much needed

*Swimsuit shopping w Heather. She's the best to shop with!!

Day 2 -This Day just keeps getting better and better....

*Unpacking and then packing up to go from freezing cold tempters to some sun!!!

* Driving to St.George.

* Going 4 wheeling in the sand dunes:Here's were it starts getting "good" I got the 4 wheeler STUCK!! Really stuck- On our girls ride. And the "save the day men" come and get it out!! Yes, I was a little embarrassed.

*Then getting on the back of Becky's 4 wheeler and Crashing.....BAD!!!

*Becky was life flighted to St.George ( nothing was broken!) But she was in so much pain.

*Going to the ER for 3 hours (not so much a highlight).

*Getting into out hotel and Gabe grilling some chicken for dinner.

*Night swimming in a heated pool.

dAY 1

For spring break this year we headed south with our good friends, the Swaseys and the Reids What we wanted was some sunshine mixed with warmth, laughs and just plain ol' good times!! Lets just say, at first there was very little sunshine and warmth but plenty of Laughing!! We first headed down to Zions National Park.Only to find it was COVERED in snow and freezing temptures! Not what we wanted for Spring break! So we unpacked our gear and made a "plan B." So the next morning we found a great hotel in St George and packed our stuff up AGAIN to head for warmer weather. Can you tell were deprived of the sun and warm Sky's!? Half way through Zions we stopped to do some 4 wheeling and lunch at the Coral sand dunes. The sand was so soft and it really was coral! We had plenty of 4 wheelers and plenty of kids, that wanted to ride! They loved it! Becky, Heather and I took a few of the kids out for a ride . Only after a few minutes, I got my bike stuck in the sand. We did all we could to get it out,only to find ourselves covered in sand! Awesome! When along 3 handsome life savers! I have to admit, I was wishing it wasn't me who got the bike stuck! But of coarse,it was! I got on the back of Becky's 4 Wheeler and we were having a great time riding with everyone, when we were going down hill ,hit a bump and lost control.I flew off the moving vehicle and Beck hit her Pelvic area on the front of the bike and then fell.Poor Becky was in and out of conciseness and in a lot of pain. We were so blessed to have Gabe and Steve close by to administer a blessing. Shortly after, the ranger on site called and had life flight come and take Becky to the hospital.I suffered some serious whip lash, and bruising. But I really couldn't complain when I had my friend passing out from pain.We once again packed up everything (we seem to be on a theme, of packing and unpacking) and started our drive to St. George.I didn't get the VIP helicopter service(thank goodness.) So the hour long,bumpy car ride was painful. But as always,I'm a tough chic and lived through it! If it doesn't kill, you it will only make you stronger,right?!

Becky suffered some severe ,deep bruising, swelling, and pain,But I think she'll be OK. Thank goodness for Pain meds,right?! Becky and I got to be together in the Er for a little bit. She wasn't great company ,due form being in and out of conciseness and drugs. But after being in the ER for 3 long, dumb hours I was ready to go suffer by the pool! But by this time it was after 8:00,so all I really wanted was some dinner.There is something so great about a BBQ at night by the pool, while the kids are swimming! You don't have a care in world! After the pain meds kicked in and a huge ice pack on my neck,I was feeling pretty good. Still uncomfortable,but nothing that a little pain med cant cure!

Becky, came back later that night and had a drug infested sleep! She was a trooper the next day. Crutches,pain pills, and all. Th kids started swimming at about 9:00 am til 5:00. Talk about water logged. BUT THEY LOVED IT!!! And we had a great time just being outside by the pool.We really just wanted to get as much sunshine as possible. Did I mention it was 45 degrees when we left Utah Valley....yuck! I'll take St. George any day! We ate dinner down town that night and got ourselves some frozen yogurt. 12 kids in tow is quit the circus show!! But it was really so fun! Even w/ all our adventures we had a BLAST. I couldn't ask for better friends, and fun people to around!! We already have plans to do it all again next year. Minus the 4 wheeling accident, and trips to the ER! It wouldnt be spring break with out surprises!!

Surgery for Walker...again

2011-04-03T15:43:00.000-07:00

These are BEFORE pics....happy, without a care in the world! Sporting trendy hospital pj's.
Playing video games!!
AFTER..... Poor Walker! All the nurses loved his long,black eyelashes!!!
So sad....
But a grape Popsicle makes everything better!!!
A few hours later, and a few Popsicles later he's feeling better!!!

And ready to leave and hopefully NEVER comeback!!!
A few years ago(when Walker was 3 year old) he had an odd lump, like thing on his groin area. Being a first time mom I called Tyler in a worry and thought for sure he was growing a third testicle! Rest assured his man parts are all fine and good. He had a hernia. He had a surgery to repair it and the rest is/was history. Fast forward to now....

Walker now age 7 (almost 8) had another lump,like thing on his groin area but on his right side now. Now being a seasoned mom, I knew it wasn't a 3rd testicle but ANOTHER stupid hernia.We made an appointment at Primary Children's to meet with the surgeon AGAIN.He said only 1% of kids have double sided hernias. How lucky is Walker to be part of the less than 1%!!?? Yea For Walker! Anyway, he had to have another surgery and soon. Spring sports is approaching and he's been so super excited to play baseball this year. We needed a hernia free Walker to participate in the spring time games!

Walker had his surgery on Tuesday. Tyler and I WERE BOTH ABLE TO GO TO THE Salt lake hospital with Walker. I have been blessed with amazing friends and Tyler's parents came to help us out!It was such a blessing! Its a hard thing to hand over your child to a surgeon and watch them walk down the hall to surgery.I watched my sweet, beautiful son walk down the long hallway with the surgeon at his side and just prayed for the best.Fortunately, everything went well.

He woke up in some pain, and they gave him Morphine.I've never even had morphine.! It took him a while to wake up and feel good enough to leave. But after a few hours he was dismissed. He felt well enough to have IN-N-OUT! This time around the recovery was a little harder,but he's doing good!

I'm so grateful for the friends I have. March has been an eventful month and I've been so blessed with great friends willing to help so much. And Tyler's parents are so willing and loving to do anything for their grandchildren. It was really was nice to have them here. The kids didn't want them to leave! And each child got some special one- on- one with grandma and grandpa. I'm just grateful beyond words for the help ,the meals, and love that we had. You would've thought it was brain surgery by the out pour we had! I'm grateful and blessed that Walker feels perfect and healing good. Hopefully we wont have to do this again!! Now the tough part is keeping my almost 8 year old away from physical activity. I caught him sneaking a football in his backpack on Friday...That's our Walker!!!

Anyway, thank you all for your help! I just love you all!!!

Identity Crisis

2011-03-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

Our very own,Capt.Moroni.....
Sometimes when Tyler feels like he isn't getting the respect he so deserves from the kids,he likes to dress up at Capt. Moroni! It helps him feel like that manly, strong man again. He likes the stares and whispers he gets as he walks through the grocery store with a gallon of milk in hand. It may not be respect he's getting , but it makes him feel good!! What ever it takes to get through the day,right!!? O.k I'm obviously exaggerating!! But with all kidding aside, I think He really enjoyed pretending to be his favorite Book of Mormon hero!

Last week the the primary had a great activity where some of the scripture hero's came to visit the children. Tyler was asked to be Capt. Moroni. Capt Moroni is also Tyler's (and mine) favorite Book Of Mormon hero. He made a great Capt. Moroni and got the respect he deserved!! (Lots of the kids thought it really was Capt.Moroni instead of the friendly Elders Quarm president!) The get-up that Tyler wore is the ORIGINAL costume from the Capt.Moroni movie. Which in my opinion is pretty dang cool. Thanks, to our dear friend who does the wardrobe for many of these movies.Anyway, I thought Tyler made a great scripture hero! Now if I can only get him to take the costume off!!!

Who's the messiest of them all?

2011-03-25T11:43:00.000-07:00

He's cute but messy!!
His favorite past time!!!
The look of self satisfaction!!!
Hudson is into EVERYTHING! ALL THE TIME!! I love this sweet baby to death,but he makes it impossible to get anything done around here. Every time I turn around he's into something. And I clean it up. He's been our busiest,fastest baby by far! He likes being where the action is, and being in center of everything! He loves his brother and sisters and just being around them. But his messes are anything but cute!!! Today I found 2 of Lilly's shoes in the toilet! He loved to unroll toilet paper in the bathroom but I think his favorite is getting a box of wipes and taking each wipe out separately! Doesn't that sound like fun!! However, he's a joy in family, and we all love him endlessly! In fact we cant stop loving on him!! He's hard to leave alone and not love!!

Its raining teeth

2011-03-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

So happy to loose another tooth! I'm going to have to ask Walker for Diet Coke money!!! Talk about Mr. Money Bags!
Finally, the tooth fairy came and he woke up HAPPY and EXCITED!!!
I feel like every time I turn around Walker is missing a tooth! He's been working on a loose tooth for a few days now. I knew it was going to come out any day. He came home today from school really excited and with a tooth shaped necklace his teacher gave him. I'm sure 1st grade teachers love it when one of their students pull out their teeth! Anyway, he was super excited for the Tooth Fairy to come.Now the tooth fairy at our house has been ...How should I say it....A LOOSER!!! It took that darn tooth fairy 2 nights to come to our house. Like I said ....A LOOSER OF A TOOTH FAIRY! And I know that looser of a tooth fairy felt bad every time he looked at Walkers sad little face of innocence and there was nothing there in morning under his pillow! How sad is that?!! But the tooth fairy did arrive and did the job! (Thanks to aunt Jewel's friendly reminder!)Walker's front teeth are just about in and the rest of the gaps from missing teeth are coming in too. He's getting big so fast! Now hopefully that dang tooth fairy will just do a better job!!

When there's no school

2011-03-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

Back when the kids were home ,off from a day of school we decided to check out the new Provo Beach Resort in the River woods. We've heard good things about it and wanted to see for ourselves.The place is a kids dream come true! There were all sorts of activities to do including an indoor wave pool! We mainly did the play ground, bowling, merry-go-round and video games but there's LOTS to do for everytone. We met up with our cousins and have a great time running around like crazy people and later we went next door to Malawi's pizza. Which was delicious. I would recommend it to anyone!~ We had a great time and were tuckered out by the end of all of our "family fun."

Ella loved the Merry-go-round

Lilly and Libby loved the in-door play ground
Walker and Patriot loved EVERYTHING, but really had a blast playing the miniature bowling!
Just Bowling....
And Hudson..... Just give him a bag of "stuff" to go through and he's in Heaven
The natives at MALAWI'S pizza

Libby loving Hudson..

Little Miss Ella is 3

2011-03-20T18:21:00.001-07:00

Our sweet Ella turned 3 years old on the 5th! I just want her to stay small, sweet, and Innocent forever! I have completely enjoyed watching this little girl of mine grow up. Shes such a joy!! I knew the day I first held her, that she was "special." I know that every mom feels that way about their new baby. Ella had such a strong, sweet spirit from the minute she was born. She's our ''sweet" child or the Lover as we put it. She would love to spend her days cuddling, or as she puts it "I want to snuggle with you."During our days together she'll ask me to "stop"and come snuggle!" I try to stop what I am doing and give her a few minutes of my time. She melts all our hearts!! Shes got her dad wrapped around ALL his fingers. Not just his little finger. She LOVES her dad.She loves everyone and tells us all day, but ADORES her dad!! Its very cute in an annoying kind of way.(Tyler insist I'm jealous!) She loves to watch movies,anything Barbie and Hercules our her favorite! I love spending my days with her and our snuggle time! She's tender, sweet, giving and reminds me of an angel! I am so thankful that Ella is in our family and that Heavenly Father has trusted me with this sweet child.Shes also our little comedian. She makes us all laugh all the time! She does and says the funniest things all the time. Maybe its that's she's just bite size that makes her so dang cute and funny!

Anyway, She had a little birthday last Sunday. The Pynes came over for a little Birthday celebration. Ella's favorite food is sausage,pancakes,fruit snakes, and strawberries! So I made her favorite breakfast,for dinner! I also ATTEMPTED to make a fancy Barbie birthday cake. Too say the least, it ended up in the garbage before the Pyne family could see it. And Tyler made some quick lemon cup cakes! One of these days, I'll bake something that actually turns out!!! I wish I was that mom could make beautiful cakes and homemade goods. BUT I'M NOT!!!! Anyway, Ella got loaded up with more Polly pockets, and Barbies (these are her favorite things in the world!) And Grandma Atkin made the sweetest, cutest church book just for Ella. I'll have to take a picture of it. She had lots of love and we made her "special day." I love this little girl. She's so easy to love! Happy 3rd Birthday our Ella!!!

Happy 3rd Birthday to our Ella a.k.a. "The Peanut"
She is every bit as sweet and sassy as she looks.....

One HUGE Happy Family- Christmas 2010

2011-02-21T07:45:00.000-08:00

I have been so awful at taking pictures lately. In my own defense the battery charger went missing.I'm sure its where my brand new, white Micheal Cors watch is! So frustrating! That's a whole other post. Anyway, I had to search and buy a new battery for the camera, so there should be lots of pictures coming!

We headed to warmer weather after Christmas and spent New Years with my family and ALL of Tyler's enormous family. All 8 of his brothers and sisters made it to Arizona! That's a task all it itself! The kids had a blast with cousins and aunts and uncles. I love being surrounded with family. The laughing, eating, joking around and sound of children making memories, Now that's happiness to me!!! It was a really busy trip,trying to split up the time between family, and friends and lets mention the shopping I LOVE TO DO WHEN I COME!! Arizona shopping is so much better than Utah.....way better!!! Anyway, we had a great visit. It always pains me a bit when I have to leave my family and come back to the high of being 22 degrees! I love that Families are Forever through Heavenly Fathers plan!( I know thats a primary song) I want to with these people for eternity!!

PATIENCE, AND MORE PATIENCE......

2011-01-27T09:55:00.000-08:00

What happens you pray and ask for PATIENCE ? Let me tell you! You get a 2 almost 3 year old that wont go poops in the toilet,but prefers the Cotton feel of her Mini- Mouse panties. For the past 3 months Ella has perfected the skills of going "pee-pees" in the toilet! Yes, that's great and all ,but the one I'm really wanting in the toilet, is good 'ol #2!! Ella is the queen of stubborn,she's an Atkin! If she doesn't want to do something, she's not going to do it. For the past 3 months, I would count on her pooping her a panties on about day 3. It would be about 3 days worth of holding it in. You do the math of the extent of grossness! Those were the days that praying for PATIENCE wasn't really getting me anymore. She refused to wear pull ups, she seemed to kind of like the freezing,cold shower she got after messing in her panties and bribery, gifts, and a cheering squad just wasn't doing the trick.These were the days that were so beyond frustrating, and not to mention just plain gross! But, when I didn't think things could go much worse.Ella has gone and surprised us all. Just this week she has started going good 'ol #2 in the toilet!!! Just like that! I'm so happy! We've been accident free for a whole week!!!! However, when I am saying my prayers I have to admit I feel a little odd saying," Heavenly Father "Thank-you for the poo-poos in the toilet!" He's got a sense of humor,right!??

Anyway,asking and praying for PATIENCE doesn't really work....Dang it all! The Lord is going to give you situations to practice your PATIENCE! Your gong to have to learn PATIENCE! At least I am! Too bad there's not a magic wand that can appear and give the gift of everlasting PATIENCE! But I am learning! And we've got Poo-poos in the toilet !!!

Happiness Is...

2011-01-26T07:41:00.000-08:00

* Reading a book 'til 2 am because, its that good

*Date night

*A home full of laughter

*A clean house

*slobber kisses from the baby

*A great work out

*quiet evenings at home with my husband

* Frozen yogert topped with fresh fruit

*Days when the cleaning lady come....YIPPY!!!

*Diet coke at 2 in the afternoon...with fresh lemon

*Chris Farley movies

* A new outfit

* Finally fitting into those skinny jeans after having a baby....now THATS happiness!!

* good friends that like me for me!

* Summer trips to the beach

* Girly movies I've seen 5oxs and still love

*birthday cards that arrive in the mail

* A potty trained 2 year old

* Small surprises Tyler does for me; little notes, filling up the car w gas all the time, letting me sleep in

* surprise visits from girlfriends

* the UPS man (not the man himself,but whats he bringing to my door)

*DVRs- how did we ever live w/o these things!?

* Freshly painted rooms

* A clean car

* Birthdays, I love Birthdays!!!

Snow storms

2011-01-17T15:49:00.000-08:00

Our 4 wheeler even got stuck!!! I think this picture is kinda funny!! He was using the snow plow on the 4 wheeler and what do ya know,it got stuck!!! Do you think now is a good time to ask if we can move to Arizona?!!
Walker on the sidewalk.....The kids played in the snow all day!! Just glad and so excited that school was canceled!!
The view from our front door!
Its really quit difficult to explain to my family (WHO ALL LIVE IN ARIZONA) what kind of snow storms weve had this year. Instead of me using words like; freezing,cold and snow(like I said, they just cant comprehend it) let me just show you what we woke up too!!!

And they even canceled school!!

Family Pictures

2011-01-17T14:01:00.001-08:00

Family pictures are great, but so freakin difficult! We wont be doing anymore until Walker is ready to go on a mission!!! Despite the crying spell from Lilly and insisting I was trying to make her look dumb(hence,why she didn't wear the "chosen outfit for pictures) And Ella being so grumpy, Walker playing in the snow and mud and Hudson not cooperating. I love my little family! And have pictures to prove it!!!

The whole family!!!

I LOVE this picture! My cute and sweet ,sassy girls! I just love them to pieces....The handsome boys!! I know I am byist,but I think all 3 are all so good lookin!!
Our sweet Ella! She'll be 3 years old in March. She's gotten to be such a pretty child! Enough said.....

Baby Hudson, 8 months old!! He brings our family so much joy and happiness and spit up!!!
Miss Lilly( Cant wait to be 8. But until then she can be happy being 5!) She was not happy about taking pictures, Despite her efforts she still looks sweet!!!
Walker has recently lost his 2 front teeth....and loves his new toothless look!!7 and half years old....and please stay that way!!!!

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth!

2010-12-07T15:55:00.000-08:00

I love this not so little boy of mine! He's getting so big,way to fast! He's lost his two front teeth and is sporting a new smile these days. I love it!
And he's such a goof.....

First snow

2010-11-21T08:06:00.000-08:00

Here the are ,ready to play in cold!

Snowball in hand, Which of the girls is going to cry first!!

We'll Fall is over and winter has started! According to the weather. We woke up this morning with SNOW!! The kids were so excited,me.....not so much! I don't love winter. Anyway, the kids ransacked their closets looking for their snow clothes and out they went to play. They loved it. But I can promise you this,by March they're not loving anymore! However, snow is a pain in -the -you-know-what, its freezing, and just plain miserable but on the other side, its also beautiful,calming, and makes you feel like you want to turn on the fireplace and cozy up with a book and hot cocoa! Enjoy! Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas too!

Sleep away

2010-11-11T08:24:00.001-08:00

Sleep away,Hudson!Nothing quite as sweet as a sleeping baby! I understand where the term,"Sleeping like a baby" originated from!

Princess Lilly

2010-11-11T08:10:00.000-08:00

Cinderella, all ready for kindergartin! Love you cute Lilly bug !
The kindergarten parade!
This year for Halloween Lilly wanted to be Cinderella. She is just such a girl! Forget being something gross, or scary. Its all about being pretty. but I must admit she made a great Cinderella!!

Every year the kindergartner's do a parade around the school in their costumes and to the Heart- stone manor. Lilly loved it! And I loved watching her! Threes something so sweet and cute about the Innocent kindergartners! I absolutely Love it! Just such a simple, fun time of life! Oh to be 5 years old again....

"Worse Halloween EVER"

2010-11-11T07:40:00.000-08:00

Here we are, on Main street,
She should've been Grumpy instead of Mini mouse....
Beautiful Cinderella....
The fruits of my labor!

Walker handing out the loot!

Walker's words, "This is the worse halloween EVER....."

We have become a little spoiled with having great Haloloween's. In great, I mean lots of fun due to fantastic "fallish" weather. The past few years have been warm and TONS of children out doing their Trick or Treating. This year the weather forcast said Halloween night was going to be windy, rainy, and cold. Since we knew what we were instore for later that evening we took the kids in the afternoon down town Main street for Trick or Treating. Its a lot of fun. All the little shops along the side- walk hand out candy. Tons of people showed up this year,I'm sure due to the arriving storm. We finished our round before the rain came. By 5:00 it looked somewhat like a hurricane outside and was hailing the size of golf balls! This is when the," This is the worse Halloween EVER." statement came out! There was no way we could go Trick or treating in this weather. As Tyler put it,"Halloween is canceled!" You should have seen the kids faces when he said that! How mean is that?! We carved pumpkins, and the children (who have 0 self control) started eating all their candy before we even had dinner. This brought on a tummy ache(Walker) and the once again statement,'This is the worse Halloween ever." About an hour later the wind and hail stopped, but the temperatures dropped to freezing. Walker was feeling to sick to go out, Ella was so beyond tired and grumpy she wasn't going out and baby Hudson was asleep ,so that left Lilly. Dad and Lilly bundled up in their warm coats, scarves and gloves and went out to fight the cold for candy! Walker stayed home and handed out candy and watched a movie. We usually have tons of children Trick or Treating but this year we only went through 3 bags of candy. Lilly and dad still had a good time,despite the cold. I don't think Walker has really touched his candy since Halloween! That's what happens when you over indulge yourself ! Overall, I had a great time hanging out with Walker and Ella,passing out candy and talking about the cool costumes! It was good for Dad to have a little one on one time with Miss. Lilly! This will definitely be a Halloween to remembered!

Hudson had a great fall......

2010-11-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

Day 1...a few hours after our trip to the ER.
By bed time,around 7:00The next morning! Oh,this makes me sooo sad....
2 days later,Tuesday...It looks like someone colored on him with a marker!

I wont be getting the "Mother of the year award" anytime soon. Sunday was an awful day, it usually is! Its always hard with 4 young children ,But this particular Sunday they children were awful. That is for a whole nother post.

I came home after sacrament meeting to put the terrible two-er down for a nap. I put Ella in her bed and placed sleeping Hudson on the counter top, in his car seat. I've done this several times. The house was quiet and peaceful with both babies asleep. That's when I heard that horrible crash- like sound followed by a screaming baby. I got that heart in my stomach feeling and ran to kitchen to find Hudson face down on the tile,screaming. I felt sick to stomach. I picked up the baby and was relieved there wasn't any blood. Thank goodness. But that didn't ease the fact that he just head planted off the counter onto the cold, hard tile.He screamed for some time and I text Tyler at church to come home immediately. Thank goodness for texting! Before Tyler came home ,I took Hudson to the emergency room. I couldn't feel any bumps were he landed,but his left side of his face was so swollen and he started to get puffy and swollen. I was worried.By the time we got admitted to a room Hudson had calmed down and was actually being happy! The Dr. came in and checked his vitals and felt his head. He felt pretty confident there wasn't any head trauma or a concussion.But their could be a fracture of some kind on his check bone. There was an option of sedating him and doing a cat scan to make for certain. I just didn't feel like at that time that was the best option.I was able to take him home and keep a close eye on him. His eye was definitely swelling up by now, but he seemed happy!!! I had a small sigh of relief knowing his little head was ok,but still felt awful about the incident. Over the next few hours his eye and side of his face went from swelling to swelling with black and purple bruises. It pains me to look at it.But he's going to be fine.

As soon as we got home form the ER Tyler gave him a priesthood blessing. What a wonderful gift to have this in my home! He blessed Hudson with a full recovery, and he wont feel pain! I feel so blessed to have this gift form our Heavenly Father. My home would not be the same with out. I know this accident could've been far more worse. I feel that angels were watching over this sweet baby. Count our small blessings and the lords tender mercies! They're all around us!

Pumkin Patch

2010-11-01T13:29:00.000-07:00

The whole family....even though Walker didn't want to be part of it! Sorry buddy, looks like your stuck with us for the rest of ETERNITY!!
Lilly and Charlee...Yes, I know this shirt is a tad too small for Lilly.I've tried tossing it away a few times. However is magically appears!! HMMMM!
Grumpy Walker.....
He really is the best dad. I'm still not sure how I lucked out on this guy!

Some of the pumpkins were almost as big as Ella!! She became oddly attached to her pumpkin. She took it to dinner, and wanted to sleep with it. I wont mention what the scene looked like when it came time to carve the pumpkin. She's just so dang cute!!

Walker finally got happy!
October would not be complete without going to the pumpkin patch. We were so lucky to have aunt Jewel and cute Charlee here for a whole week I love it when they are here. We can do nothing at all and still have the best time! Since they are from Arizona they really haven't experienced what "real" fall feels and looks like. And what better way to show them something "fallish" than going on a good?!! 'ol hay ride through the orchards! It was a ton of fun and everyone had themselves a good time. For some reason unknown to man, Walker didn't want to participate in "fallish" activities. Who knows? But once he got on the tractor pulling the straw coverd wagon he was ok with it. Moody kid! :) Each person picked out their own pumpkin, did a fun maze, and just enjoyed the "fallish" sunshine. It was a rally fun night. We ended the evening by going to some Ma and Pa diner in Santaquin.That serves the biggest and best scones EVER!!! They are yummy, but are they worth what the scale will read the next day!?? Anyway, we had a lot of fun. This will definitely be a new tradition we do every year!

Halloween party

2010-10-31T16:59:00.000-07:00

Williams....I think the stoggie looks all to natural on Jimbo!
Welcome to our planet,Packers!Lady Gaga and her man slave!

were # 1 ....Go Jazz!!
Jazz fans......Go Jazz .Steve kept calling me William Wallace,from BRAVEHEART. Sadly,I see the resemblance!
Trevor the rebel! Who won the title, Most unlikely to be brought home to meet mom and dad!!The always inappropriate, Jon!!!!

The Packers love to throw a party, especially Halloween! This was their 4th annual Halloween party, and our 3rd time going! I think it was one of the best! I didn't stop laughing the entire night! But whenever I'm anywhere near the Packers, Rachelle, and the Swayseys I become lets say.....inappropriate! Anyway, it was a lot of fun,Im already thinking about what we can dress up as for next year.

6 months and counting...

2010-10-31T13:51:00.000-07:00

Hudson at 6 months old,doing what he does best......Baby Hudson is 6 months old and a few days! He is such a sweet joy in our home.He's possibley the worst sleeper I've ever had, but a joy!!!He loves attention ,and being in the room where all the action is at. He loves his momma! Who wouldn't ,right?! After all I give him all the free milk a baby could possibly want! He loves car rides, and going to go get an afternoon Diet Pepsi! He loves playing with his feet and toes. I think its the cutes thing ever! He has started eating some solid foods(if rice cereal,apple sauce and pears count as solids) But he seems to love food! He makes me happy!! Husdon I'm so glad your part of our family.What a relief to have you here, and healthy. I love your sparkly blue eyes, they tell a whole story! You've already changed our family for the better. Your big ,toothless smile lights up a room.I love you so much! Happy 6 months sweet baby! Now just go to sleep.......Please!!

Jazz fans

2010-10-31T13:36:00.000-07:00

Here they are....Rooting for their team! Go Jazz!
My husband LOVES sports.He loves to watch it,play it, dream about it, and talk about it!! In fact he wishes and dreams about being a professional baller. I think that pretty much sums it up! He loves (its a hate love thing!) the Utah jazz. Ever since he was a child he has grown up watching the Utah jazz. And every year he thinks they just might be able to win a championship, and guess what? Every year they let him down. So sad for him! Anyway,last April WHEN I WAS GIVING BIRTH ,having Hudson he asked if he could buy season tickets to the Jazz. Not really thinking (once again,I was giving birth!) I said "sure,why not?!" So here we are with season tickets to the Jazz. I'm not going to be able to attend many of these games(the whole lactating for a baby thing!) But Tyler sold a bunch of games and has a few friends that want tickets. On this particular night he took Walker. This was Walker's first time going to see any professional sports. And let me just say, He loved it! He thought it was the coolest!Both Tyler and Walker wore their Darren Williams jerseys and rooted their little hearts out!It was a lot of fun for the both of them.So now we have not one Jazz fan in the house but two! Go team Jazz!!

False alarm

2010-10-13T11:10:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure what it is about my kids and being slightly obsessed with the cops and 911.They always ask, "what happens if I call 911?"Or "what will the cops do when they come to your house?"

Today I had a surprise visit from the city police debt! Why did I have a visitor this morning asking me if everything was OK? Well, Lilly called 911 and hung up. Of coarse they called back and Lilly ran to answer the phone and HUNG UP again!! I asked her who was on the phone and she said,"nobody." She than asked the ever so popular question around our house," What happens when we call 911?" I explained AGAIN that 911 is only used for emergencies. Not to long after the not so random question the door knocked. We were expecting Lilly's playgroup friends, so she ran to the door and SURPRISE!! Its a policeman!!! Lilly ran from the door and hid in Hudson's closet as I talked with the friendly officer. She was so scared and trembling. I think she honestly thought she was going to go to jail! And when I say trembling, I really mean the poor girl was shaking like a leaf!! I think she now knows the answer to the question,"What happens when we call 911?!!

Things I LOVE to LOVE

2010-09-21T19:04:00.000-07:00

1. Clean sheets

2. a clean house( but it doensn't last long)

3.getting my hair done

4.A great pair of fitting jeans

4. The sound of my children playing and laughing(outside)

5.watching my children learn to be independent people

6, Tacos

7. Going to the movies

8. the smell of rain

9.quiet evenings

10.A work out that leaves you tired and every muscle trembling( Thats for you Liz!)

8.sleeping in

9.fresh baked chocolate chip cookies(my sis- in-law makes the very best)

10.the smell of fresh paint

11.a great book (and time to read)

12.My few wonderful friends I have

13.frozen yogurt

14.Family get togethers

15,nuzzles from my children (probably one of my very favorite things!)

16.Bike rides with my family

17. 80's rock music ex: AC/DC, Poison, Tesla, Def leopard and lets not forget Bon Jovi;who's still rockin out!!

18.Chips and salsa

19. Target and Nordsrtom

20.Dates with my husband

21.Having someone other then me clean my house :)

22. I almost hate to say it, but I love Spanish fork!!

23. A full tank of gas (Ty keeps a good look out, when my gas is low he'll fill it up for me when I don't even know it!)

24. Watching T.V and movies in my bed

25. M&M's (I actually hate to love these, but they're my fave)

26.Sunday naps ( This doesn't happen enough)

27.A good thunder storm

28.going to the bathroom BY MYSELF ( sounds simple enough, but its next to impossible in this house!) This also includes a shower by myself! And once again : there is always an interruption. And I'm not ruling Tyler out either! (Too much information!)

29.Obama ( NOT !!) I just thought that would be funny- How about BBQ'S I love anything off the grill

30.Going walking with friends in the cool evenings

31. A babies smile! Really, is anything sweeter? Even if its not your baby,its so stinkin cute!!

Just Hudson

2010-09-20T08:43:00.001-07:00

He loves walks! They comfort him and put him to sleep almost instantly! He's trying so hard to stay awake....

It amazes me how much babies change. It seems daily there is some kind of change that takes place. I dont want to forget this sweet time. Hudson may be our happiest, most smiley baby yet! We can get him to smile at any time.He melts my heart!

LABOR DAY= cabin fun again

2010-09-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

The boys did their share of wrestling
Just relaxing...It got really cool outside,Ella seems to be more of an"indoor girl"

(wink, wink) Which thats fine by me!!

Ella's favorite thing to do is take a bath! She doens't like to be dirty.Like I said, "indoor girl"

Ella and Broody,theses could be great black mail pictures some day!!

Peyton on the zip line....
Lilly on the zip line.....

Walker trying to hide the Bebe gun he's NOT suppose to be playing with( Better loose the suspicious face buddy) I know that face all to well.It says GUILTY all over it!He seems way to comfortable with a gun....

Aim, shoot, fire.....

Lilly waiting her turn for a ride on the 4 wheeler. Lilly's not the most patient 5 year old, but she's learning!
Kirsten and I! She's like family to me,Just love her!
Over labor day we headed back to the scofeld cabin. Tyler and his crew needed to finish up on a project they started so we ALL decided to tag along. The whole Boxx family came along and Tyler's other 2 work buddies. It was a really nice weekend.We did a fire pit roasting s'msores, rode 4wheelers, ate, laughed, talked and did the zip line. Walker and Peyton shot their Bebe guns and the smaller children basically broke or tried to destroy what ever they could! It was almost like a seek and destroy mission,and their mission was successful! It was a really nice break and fun to just hang out!

There was a little lady who swallowed a quarter...

2010-09-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

Not the best picture, but heres Lilly waiting for xray!

Last year on the first day of school we were at the Doctors office for Walker breaking his arm on the playground. Great first day, right?!!

This year on the first day of school we were back for lilly because she swallowed a Quarter!! YUP, a quarter! And the odd thing(if it can get any odder:) She did it with her back turned to me just a few feet from me. She started swallowing the quarter and then left the room. I had no idea what she was doing. I just thought she was trying to sneak some candy . A few moments later Walker came into the room hysterical,"Lilly is dying and chocking on something." I bolted from the room I was in and sure enough, Lilly was chocking. Without really thinking I Begin patting/pounding on her back and then she swallowed the quarter. Not quit what I was expecting ,but she was fine. A little shaken up , but fine."Why?" I asked her when I knew she was OK. Her response, "I didn't want Walker to take it."Oh to think like a 5 year old! I called Tyler at work and he thought i should call the doctor. The doctor wanted us to come in immediately. There could be severe problems,depending where the Quarter landed. They took some xray and sure enough the quarter was there! But they said it would pass in due time. Just let nature take its course! All the Doctors on call wanted to meet the little girl who swallowed a quarter. I wish I could have brought the xray home, it looked kind of cool! lilly has made a promise not to put anything in her mouth that is not edible. And Walker has promised to leave her money alone! We can look back now and laugh.But I was scared when I saw my Lilly bug chocking.Thank goodness she's ok. I swear angels are watching over this house!

Kindergartin for Lilly

2010-09-11T11:33:00.001-07:00

Lilly ,with her friend Jade
Ella had to be in every picture. They are all ready for kindergartin!She would wear that skirt everyday if she could!

It was torture for Lilly to watch Walker leave and go to school an entire week before she got to go. So when it was time, she was more than ready. She's known for weeks what she was going to wear. Talk about being excited!! And then there's Ella who's 2 and a half that just wants to big too. Ella, Hudson and I walked lilly to school. Ella wanted to stay with Lilly at school. Some day your time will come little one! Lilly wanted me to walk her in. And lucky duck she sits right by her friend Jade. Lilly has many of her friends in class and has the best teacher, Mrs. Melove! After a few minuets Lilly told me to "GO HOME." What? I thought to myself. My child doesn't need me anymore.( how sad) She insisted again, "Mom, go home" So home I went with a small tear in my eye. I guess I'd rather her telling me to "GO home" than having a break down and wanting me to sit there with her. Pick your poison, right?

Lilly had a great day and loved her teacher and class. She's so ready to be going to school and loves it! She's getting so big and independt. I told her her to stop growing but she just didnt listen.

Walker's 1st day of 1st grade...again

2010-09-11T08:41:00.001-07:00

Isn't he cute!?What a roller coaster ride! Last year we decided to go forward and send Walker to first grade instead of doing another year of kindergartin. Socially, he keeps up with 3rd and 4th graders. He's very outgoing, and has no problem making friends. Everyone loves Walker.He gets it from me! (wink) However, all last year Walker and I worked so hard every night on homework. More than any 1st grader should have to do. There were many times after his hard work he would get so frustrated with the grade he received.This would make him self conscious and feel like he wasn't smart enough. That's heartbreaking to watch. After a lot of council with the school's principal, guidance counselor,and teacher we decided to hold him back. To say the least they wanted to put him through 2nd grade. I didnt want him to hate school and suffer with self esteem .I have spent months praying and fasting about what to do. When it came down to making the decision, we felt good about holding back. He does have a late summer birthday(July 29Th.) We talked with Walker to see how he felt about the situation, and surprisingly enough, he was excited about. He liked the idea of not being the youngest kid in class, and not having to study so hard on spelling words, and being slightly bigger then the others. Bless his heart for endearing with us!

So Walker got Miss. Huchings this year for 1st grade! He's doing so well and having a good time. He was so excited for the school year to start. I love that he came home from school the other day excited and proud that he was the first one done with his math. His self esteem has improved and he is thriving. Hurray for 1st grade!!!

Heres what we've been doing

2010-09-11T08:11:00.000-07:00

POTTY TRAINING.........She loves to go pee pees in the toilet its poo-poos she wont do IN THE TOILET. Its the poop-poos I want. That's the one that really seals the deal and counts! I have yet to give cheers of joy for poo poos in the toilet! Yesterday she had her panties off for a few minutes and thought going poo poos on the carpet would be a better idea than going on the porcelain thrown. Yes, I was upset and yes, it was disgusting. I've tried treats, bribes ,cheers, you name it,I've tried it!! No poo poos yet!! I'm thinking of giving up for a bit and trying a gain in few weeks. Shes scared of going poops in the toilet.Maybe I should set my goal to having her be potty trained before she goes to prom, in about 17 years!!!

My tangent= venting

2010-09-10T17:22:00.000-07:00

I know I am behind on this whole blog thing, but I'm trying! Summer was long at the Atkin house this year. Having a new baby right when school got out was lets just say, challenging. To say the least, I was ready for school to start, and get the family back on some sort of schedule. I HAVE to have a schedule or the house just runs out of control, kind of like it did this summer. I think every little boy under the age of 10 has seen my breast feeding essentials at some point or another this summer. Thanks to Walker! Hudson is 4 months old and I think life might be getting a little easier or at least "doable" if that's even a word! He's starting to get into a routine or schedule of napping. The constant throw up or what some call spit up is getting better or not as often and he's sleeping better at night, THANK -GOODNESS! Anyway, I didn't mean to go a tangent but its been my life the past few months. I think I can do this 4 kid thing....most days!

Before I ever had children I made a promise to myself and my heavenly father that when the time came to have children that I would give it my all, a 100%.I wasn't blessed in my life with that, and wanted that very thing for my own children. Not a day goes by when I don't thank my Heavenly Father for trusting me enough to give me 4 beautiful and healthy children. I have been blessed. I know I couldn't do it with out the help from the savior. I pray I can teach my children all they need to know about life and the gospel.There have been many times these past few months with the grueling schedule of a new baby, that I have felt like a failure not being able to tend to all of their needs.I have felt the help and strength from my Heavenly Father.With prayer my burdens were lighted and I could feel the love the Savior has for me. I know I just said ,"I couldn't do it all with out the help from the Savior, but I know it to be true! Thank goodness for the knowledge I have of a loving Heavenly Father and a supportive husband! Now with all that being said, I have 2 crying children that need to be tended to or sent to timeout!

Bath time

2010-08-26T17:46:00.000-07:00

I got these pictures turned around. But this Is Hudson AFTER his bath. He's so relaxed and happy afterward. Who doesnt love a nice , warm bath?!

I wish I could scratch and sniff these pictures!!

I have a pictures with all 4 of my children in this blue and yellow tub. Hudson had a blow out the other day and needed a bath in the middle of the day. He's happiest in the water, warm water!! He's starting to get a little big for this tub of ours and I may be retiring it in a few short weeks....kinda sad, but not really!! wink, wink! Nothing is better than a fresh, clean baby!!!

4 Months

2010-08-26T17:25:00.000-07:00

Hudson is now 4 months to the date!! Where has the time gone? This is when they start getting "cute." He's getting that baby fat all over, and smiling, and he started rolling over a few weeks ago. His smile is contagious along with his laugh. He has blue eyes like the other 3. I thought brown was supposed to be dominate, but not in this house!! We absolutely love this little guy to pieces. He's going to be a tough little guy. Ever heard the saying,"Tough love?" Or how about "Love hurts!?" He's been dropped a few times, stepped on, sat on, and gets pulled and tugged on regularly. That what you get when you have 2 older sisters ( its mainly Lilly,but don't tell her I said so!) Walker is really good with him and has been my helper this summer!

However, with him being 4 months old that also means I haven't slept through the night in 4 long months. He still spits up EVERYTHING, ALL THE TIME, He loves and has to be held all the time. I'm still trying to get off the dreaded baby weight.And I'm tired!!! I'm not complaining, which I'm sure it sounds like it. I just want to be able to look back and remember what its really like to have a 4 month old. With that being said, I love this baby to pieces. He makes me happy! I love his little face! Now being tired and fat I can honestly say, He's worth it!! Our family wouldn't be complete without this little guy!

Splash Park

2010-08-26T15:40:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we went up with some friends to the Highland splash pond.The kids basically just took off and played with their Friends for a few hours while I got to catch up with the ladies. They were exhausted by the end of the day! What a perfect way to spend the afternoon!

Walker,Colby, Conner and cute Kelbi at the end of the day!

Tandy with tired Jada

Mel with baby Hudson.... I'm so blessed to have these women in my life. I just adore them!Lilly and Eveylynn...such girls!

The super Slide

2010-08-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

One of my dear friends invited us to join them on the Pateenet hill for a few hours of fun in the sun. Not only is it some fun-in-the- sun, but fun with an ultimate water slide ! Pateenet is known for its great sledding in the winter because of its great, big hill. My husband has great memories as a child sledding down this exact hill. But in the summer you can rent the hill, hoses and water slide and invite as many friends your little heart desires. The kids had a blast going down the slide and running up the huge hill for another turn. Ella was brave the first time, not knowing what to expect. But that was the extent of her bravery. Walker and Lilly loved it. This is something we definitely want to do again! Thanks Liz for letting us tag along!!

Ella loves being in her swimsuit

Lilly loving the sun and the cold water on a hot day!
Lill and Ella Rosenbaum ( love her name :) Lilly loved the water, the slide and Ella!

Ella was a complete sweety with my Ella.......As you can see she carried peanut up the hill!
Ready,Set, GO!!!!Walker couldn't get enough....

Cabin fun

2010-08-09T11:12:00.000-07:00

I heard some giggling in the back(thats so much better then fighting!) When I looked behind this is what they were doing! What if I really made the kids wear helmets whenever we went somewhere! :)
Lilly getting ready to zipline!!
There she goes....

Ella wanted to go on the zip line so bad. Unfortunatley, its way to fast and she's too small!!

Walker on the zip line! i'm surprised he didnt bring his Bebe gun on the ride!They really do love each other!!!!

Over the weekend to went with Tyler to work. Lucky him!! He's been re- doing a cabin and thought it would be fun if we tagged along for the day. Its an amazing cabin filled with trails for 4 wheeling, a lake and they even built their very own zip line! So we loaded up the 4 wheelers for a few hours of fresh cabin air!

Walker immediately found a few Bebe guns and spent his precious day outside shooting stuff. He was in shoot- gun heaven! Lilly spent time exploring and once she discovered the zip line that's all she wanted to do. We did go on a few rides on the 4 wheelers which is always fun. She and Ella both loved that. Walker even put down his Bebe guns for the time being to participate in the zip line! What a fun idea! So overall we had a really good time.

Tyler now has "cabin fever" meaning: He wants one for himself. I'm not sure if we would use it enough to have it be worth it.But ,it was so nice to get away from the heat and participate in what the great outdoors has to offer.

Walker's 7th birthday

2010-08-08T19:22:00.000-07:00

Walker picking out his Air soft BEBE gun! Can you say ,BEST MOM EVER!! (Seriously, what was I thinking?)
Walker eating his birthday Hot dog....yumm-o!!
This picture really says it all....This might be a good bribery picture in the years to come!!!
Lilly downed her hot dog and was on the prowell for a super size drink of Sprite!!
I love birthdays! I love the excuse to give presents and have cake and ice cream, Mainly I love making that person feel loved and special on that particular day. Its the one day out of the year, you really should feel special! For Walker's Birthday this year he wanted to have a swimming party with his friends. We decided to do it a few days after his birthday. So I did a small(but fun) family party. Unfortunately, Walker was really grumpy this night. And a grumpy Walker is never a good Walker. He asked for a HOMEMADE chocolate and peanut butter cake. I don't enjoy baking AT ALL! But I was happy to do it. And it turned out. I also told him we could go have lunch any where he wanted, his choice COSTCO!! So we got hot dogs and drinks at Costco! I also took him to the store to pick out any birthday present he wanted. I knew what he was going to pick. His little heart desired a Air soft Bebe gun! Such a boy!! I had one rule with the gun(sorry, Air soft Bebe gun) NO AIMING OR SHOOTING AT PEOPLE !!! I think that's pretty self explanatory and a fairly simple rule,right? I guess not. I ended up having to take the fun away, because He shot the neighbor girl!!!! So I had to take away the beloved birthday present. He cant go around shooting people. This is when the grumpiness set in. Walker had a major attitude and we told him if he doesn't change his attitude then there wont be another birthday party. Walker's response," birthday parties are dumb, and I don't care." Well your wish is my command! It never pays to be a party pooper! Tyler even went to the store and got him a Lego Indianna Jones Wii game and a Lego set he's been wanting. Because of the attitude he only got the Wii game. So guess what one of Christmas presents will be this year? If you guessed a Lego set, then your right!! Walker was happier when his buddy Trey came over for cake and ice cream. He loved the Wii game and the of coarse the gun. Happy Birthday Boog! Hopefully next year we can party a little harder!!!

Lilly's Golden birthday

2010-07-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

Lilly with the cute "bug" cake aunt Addie made!!Making a wish....

Lilly with her Grandpa Passey, she LOVES her Grandpa!!Grandpa with all the girls, I love this picture! Priceless!!
Mom and dad gave Lilly a 19"doll with clothes and a bunk beds. Grandma Pasey got her a darling outfit, that she wants to wear everyday! And this cute Daughter of God plaque!

Lilly actually turned 5 on the 5th of July. Like I mentioned before, its always such a busy time but we love it. We did a family party at the park with pizza,a cute bug cake( that my sister in-law once again made!) and lots of family. We were so blessed to have all the family here to celebrate Lilly's birthday. Lilly felt like it really was her "special"day." We had a great day!

Traits that make Lilly special:

1. She has the cutest smile

2.pretty blond hair

3.She's takes good care of her brothers and sister

4.Shes such a great helper

5. She loves to look pretty

6. She's full of energy

7.She's very bright

8. She loves to learn about Jesus

9. She's a leader

10. She knows how to be polite(when she wants to)

11.She's 50% sass and 50% sweet!

12.She's my shopping buddy

13.Her sparkly blue eyes light up when she's excited

14.She loves to cuddle

15.She LOVES to play dress up

16. She's good at dance and gymnastics

17. She loves to have her nails painted

18.She always has to be busy doing something

19.She loves to swim

20.She loves to wrestle with her brother

We love you Lilly! Our family wouldn't be the same with out out Lilly Bug!!

Baby Hudson's blessing

2010-07-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

After church, the blessing circle.My beautiful sister with Hudson
Outside eating "brunch"
Just enjoying a quiet moment with a sleeping Hudson! His hair is always straight up, no matter what i do!

Nothing sweeter than a sleeping baby!
Hudson, we love you so much!

As if the 4th of July weekend couldnt be any busier we decided to throw in a baby blessing as well. Might as well,right?!! It seemed like the perfect time to do it. Both our families were going to be here, so it just seemed right? We did a light brunch before the blessing:sticky buns(made by Tracy), fruit and dip, muffins and juice. It was actually really yummy! Both of our families traveled down from Arizona to participate in the blessing of our sweet Hudson. We were fortunate to have them both here.

I really wanted to write down the blessing so I wouldn't forget it....like all the others. However, I have a 2 year old that tends to get separation anxiety when she sees her daddy leave to go anywhere. And when she saw her dad leaving to go bless Hudson she had a melt down! So I was a little busy and preoccupied keeping Ella busy and quiet. To say the least, I didn't get to write down the blessing and totally forget most of it. The one part I do remember is Tyler blessing Hudson with a happy heart. I'm not sure why that is the one thing that really stood out to me. Hudson is a happy baby. His smile lights up his whole face. Its adorable! The more I get to know this sweet,tender baby i know he is special and here with our family for a reason. He completes our family, and we all just adore him! I do know the spirit was there with Tyler and his blessing.It was undeniable. I am so grateful to have a husband who has and honors his priesthood. I am so grateful for a Father in Heaven who, once again trusted me with another one of his sweet, precious children. I promise to do my best in teaching ,raising, and loving these children. Its the least I can do! Each of them are such sweet, wonderful miracles!

Lilly Bug Is fantastic Five

2010-07-20T13:47:00.000-07:00

Lilly's cute group of friendsMake A wish.....

Walker didn't want to be the only boy, so he had his best buddy Cooper tag along! I honestly think they enjoyed being with all the girls!

Taking a break....

3 little Monkeys: Kimberly, Jade, and Bentley

Lilly's birthday is on the 5th of July. This tends to be one of the busiest times of year for our family and most of Lilly's friends. Which means, most of her friends are busy or out of town for the 4th. This year, we got smart and had her birthday party a week before the holiday so all her cute little friends could come. We also got smart and had her birthday party at the place Lilly takes gymnastics from. Lilly LOVES gymnastics and was really excited. I think they all had a great time and were tuckered out at the end!! What a cute bunch of girls!!

Signs of summer

2010-07-09T15:43:00.001-07:00

I absolutely love the summers in Utah! Once school is out The kids live in their swimsuits. What a life!! Their skin gets tanned and beautiful, they are on total sugar rushes from all the neighborhood Popsicles,and exhausted at the end of the day!!! Like I said, I LOVE SUMMER
Lilly and Clare play all day long,usually in their swimsuits or dress up clothes
Just enjoying the cold water on a warm day!

Discovery Musuem

2010-07-09T15:22:00.000-07:00

I got a Brand New IPod touch for my birthday and guess what happened to it? My sweet and charming 6 yr old was playing with it(I didn't even have it for 24 hours) and dropped it in the toilet.....Why was it in the toilet? I don't even want to know. Anyway,good thing it had a warranty on it. We had to take it up the SLC store at the gateway to get a new one and decided to make a day trip out of it. So we ended up at The Discovery museum. The kids loved it and had a ton of fun. It such a great place for the kids to play and interact.

Walker and Ella loved the balls...

Lilly and Ella in the water....Ella LOVED THE WATER
Lill checking out at the grocery store.Who doesn't love playing the check out girl at the grocery store?!!

Lilly doing her own shopping.....I wish I had someone to do my shopping for me!!

They even have a rock wall!! Walker looks more like a sprawled catOur friendly neighborhood Spider man!

Atkin Kids

2010-06-26T12:09:00.001-07:00

I was just going to get Hudson's pictures taken but ended up doing all of them. I love how they turned out!!

Hudson at 6 weeks old!! He was such a a little ham taking these. He would just stare at the camera in awe.

My sweet Ella. And yes, she's as sweet as she looks....most of the time!Ella Brook at 2 years old.

Our spirited Lilly Bug! She is turning 5 in a few days and cant wait!!!
Our oldest, Walker who likes to think he runs the household.....he pretty much does! He'll be turning 7 In a few weeks and is my helper right now!!
The whole bunch.I just love all their eyes in these pictures. They didnt get those blue eyes from me!

Sisters

2010-06-12T16:02:00.001-07:00

Lilly and Ella just hanging out before school

Say cheese.....

Ella loves to do anything Lilly and Walker are doing. And she does a good job at keeping up with them. Ella would wait with Lilly for her car pool ride to come and pick her up for pre-school. She would give her kisses and wave to good-bye til the car was out of sight. Now don't get me wrong, this is a sweet moment. That's why I wanted to capture the moment. These two fight and harass each other 'til no end. But here they look like 2 sweet sisters! sigh!!!

Playing "catch-up" -MAY

2010-06-12T14:49:00.000-07:00

May is the busiest time of year for us. With a brand new baby and all the end of the school year festivities I'm just going to do a quick recap of May and some of June. We have birthdays( mine and Tyler's) Our anniversary, Lilly's end of the year pre-school program, recitals, baseball games (Tyler and Walker) Gymnastic meets,etc....but I love it. Not to mention a new baby to throw into the scheme of things....so here's to May

Lilly's dance performance

Lilly the DIVA.... A few minutes before Lilly was to go back on the stage a friend came up to me while we were watching the other little dancers and said Lilly was crying backstage and really upset. Someone had taken HER black leotard and she refused to wear anything but her own. We Had a "loaner" leotard but that just wasn't going to work in the eyes of Lilly Atkin. She wanted HERS. Obviously there wasn't time (or reason) to go to every dancer and see if they had on Lilly's black leotard. She was suppose to go stage in 1 minute and was an absolute crying mess. I was bribing her with the world and complimenting her to no end. When bribes and compliments didn't work I did what any stage mother does....kissed her, wished her luck and pushed her onto the stage!! Fortunately, she performed like a star and had the pout to prove it!!
Lilly doing a dance to "All the Single Ladies" Just look at that face...

Tyler's 33rd Birthday
Happy birthday Sweetie!!
Hudson at 5 weeks old!!!

Ella just loves Baby Hudson...a lot!!

Reading rewards for Walker

2010-06-12T14:35:00.000-07:00

Walker waiting for his food!!
Ella loves the salad bar....who doesnt love brick Ovens salad bar?

Walker has come so far in reading this year. He was considered a "non-reader" when he entered 1st grade. With lots of practice and Patience Walker can now read. Throughout the year when they achieve a certain number of reading hours the students earn rewards. Walker earned a few certificates this year,but his favorite was to Brick Oven. So Walker basically took his family out to dinner! Way to go Walker! He's done so well this year and has worked really hard. Were really proud of him! This was also the first time we went as a new family of 6! Its definitely a circus now!