Lately....

In an attempt to catch up with what I have been doing, I thought I would write a summary post of highlights and then work on getting back on track to regular posting. Here's what I have been doing lately...

 growing strawberries...

 finished another semester of school... nine classes to go (Yay!)

making changes to the back yard....

participated in the Race for the Cure...

went to Portland for the REAL vs. Timbers game!

Best game Ever!

Christmas Time

I absolutely loved Christmas this year.  It was a tiny bit hectic because I didn't have as much time to prepare this year because of school.  It started out with a really great party for work.  We ate at the Market Street Grill and went bowling and had a competition.  It was very fun! 

Then I hosted my family Christmas party again.  We ate Lasagna, rode front runner to see the lights, exchanged gifts and beat a pinata.  Colette and Aaron surprised me with a Tebow Jersey as a gift.  I was so excited.  I felt like Christmas could have ended that minute and I would have been fine.

At the end of the night we read from the Bible the story of Christ's birth.  Then each of us in turn said one thing that makes us grateful.  Many of the kids and the adults said they were grateful for a good family.  I do honestly believe I have one of the best families on the earth.  All of us have flaws.  Some of us have many but I truly know they would do anything for me whenever I need.

The day after the family Christmas party I went to Morgan to stay at my parents.  We had nachos for dinner and watched a movie.  I ate breakfast on Christmas Eve morning and headed to Colette's to have dinner and watch their nativity.  We went up early so I could watch the Denver Broncos.  I wore my new jersey and thought it would be good luck. Tebow played the worst game of his life.  I truly hope the jersey is not to blame because I have no plans to stop wearing it.

I learned that day the importance of service.  My sister Colette was busily making and taking treats to her neighbor who had fallen on hard times, were sad, or alone.  It was amazing to see her follow the spirit and serve so many others. She spend a lot of time with some children of a family who lost their mother to Leukemia.  The five little children have been left to be raised by their grandmother.  I will never forget hearing the five year old boy talk about how he missed his mom.  It made me so so sad for the little boy.  I have so many blessings.  My life has been so easy.  I thank the Lord for all he has given.

Christmas morning was spent with my parents.  The opening of gifts and a yummy breakfast. We then went to Sacrament meeting and home to a yummy dinner.  I love the spirit of the Season.  For the time of giving. I love the happiness in the atmosphere.  I truly truly do love Christmas.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays.  Maybe all of the holidays are my favorite but I particularly love this one.  I love making and enjoying amazing food.  This year I made Cranberry Sauce, Lion House Rolls, and Seven Layer Salad. I love spending time with my family.  This year at my sister Colette's house, with my parents, my sister Monica and many of my nieces and nephews. I love wearing stretchy pants, laying on the couch and watching football.  This year we watched Texas vs. Texas A&M, LSU vs. Arkansas and Florida vs. Florida State. And I love thinking and reminiscing about all of the things that make me thankful.  My life, my health, my family, my home, my education, my Charlie, my work, my testimony of a loving Heavenly Father. I hope all of you had a grateful, blessed Thanksgiving Day.  I hope that all of us remaining thankful for all of our bounteous blessings and the gifts we have been given.  HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Soccer Surprise

A few weeks ago my sister Colette and her family came down from Logan to go to the REAL game. I was excited they were going to be there because I love the game so much. I called her on my way to the game to ask where they were sitting so we could meet up. She told me and then said, "Gracie is with us too!" I was so excited. Not only was Colette's family coming to the game but my cute niece Gracie was coming as well. During half time I went and met up with them. Savanah and Gracie decided they wanted to come sit with me. Although Gracie doesn't look to happy, I had a great time and I'm so happy they all came down to watch the REAL. Go RSL!!

My Mom Did it For Me..

One of my new year's resolutions was to make a quilt.  I decided I wanted to make a 4th of July quilt to take to parades, fireworks, picnics etc in the summer during the 4th of July celebrations.  I went to the store and choose the pattern and picked out the fabric.  I spent almost and entire Saturday cutting all of the peices.  Then I figured out the color scheme and pattern.  

I have a sewing machine but haven't used it since I was a senior in high school.  A few weeks ago I was planning to stay in Morgan on a Friday night after volunteering for the Wasatch Back Rely.  I decided to take my fabric to use my moms sewing machine because it was nicer and already set up.  I was up late that Friday night at the race and was exhausted on Saturday morning.  My mom said to me when I woke up, "Why don't you go back to sleep and I will sew your quilt for you. "  I didn't object.  She pieced the entire quilt together for me.

I also wanted to have the quilt professional machine quilted because of time and energy.  I didn't want to have to worry about getting it done.  My mom knew this and being the great lady that she is, found someone to quilt it for me, provided me with the batt to go inside, took the quilt to the lady, paid the lady to quilt it, picked it up, and finished all of the binding.  I didn't know she had done all of that.  She called me last Sunday morning and told me my quilt was done.  I said, "What" she said.  I picked it up yesterday, it is done.  I did it for you. 

I was so happy.  I have been overly stressed lately with work and starting school in a month, trying to train for the 1/2 marathon and everything else, I didn't think I would have time to get the quilt done.  It was one of the best surprises I have ever had, when my mom called and said my quilt was done.  I love her so much.  I'm so happy to have her in my life.  And, I love my quilt.  It turned out just the way I wanted it.  Happy 4th of July!!

A Little More About Texas

While I was in Texas a few weeks ago there was kind of a lot going on.   Amaia was born which was so exciting and fun to be a part of.  In addition, Milo had just turned eight and was getting baptized.

With Milo and Holly at Milo's Baptism.

After the baptism Monica and Scott hosted a taco bar at their house for friends, family and neighbor. Of course they were a complete delight due to Scott's cooking.   Milo wore a Brazilian soccer jersey during the taco party that I was very happy to see him wearing. 

 Go Brazil!!!

While everyone was mingling and eating Monica and I snuck away to take Amaia to her first doctor's appointment.

I loved going to Amaia's doctor's appointment.  It was so fun to be there.  She passed all the tests.  As I said a hundred times over the weekend..."She is perfect!"  We will see if her parents think that as she gets older.

Holly got a little tired with all of the excitement and took a nap in the middle of the floor. 

There was a significant amount of family in town to support Monica and Scott for the birth of Amaia and for Milo's baptism.  Scott's siblings, parents and grandparents were there.  Along with myself and my mother. Because of all the support, they decided to bless Amaia at their house while we were all there.  It was a very touching experience.  The Bishop came over after church and it was very sweet and simple. 

The Little Family. 

I love going to visit Monica and her family.  I wish they lived a little closer.  I look up to them in so many ways.  They are one of the best families I know.  They are caring and giving, down to earth and easy going.  They are easy to be around and fun to talk to.  I'm so grateful they are a part of my family and that they are such great friends to me as well. 

My New Baby Niece

My new baby niece Amaia Ann was born the first week of June.  Luckily I had planned to go see Monica and her family that weekend and was able to meet little Amaia 24 hours after she was born. 

 She is so cute and sweet!  I loved holding her all the time! I might have hogged her a little...

 I love the little ones very much!

 I miss her all the way!  

After I left and came home I told my sister she should move back to Utah and could live with me.  She kind of laugh a little bit out loud... her only response was why don't you move here and live with us.  Sadly, I don't think that is going to happen... sigh!

To Flood or Not To Flood?

My parents live in Morgan on a street called the Island Road.  The street is called the Island Road because it has a river that runs down both sides of it the make the road an Island.  In years like this year the question is posed, "Is it going to flood or not flood?"  Until now my parents house has not flooded.  They have made some preparations such as....

Placing a mound of cow manure by the river and....

Pulling up the carpet in their basement. 

Some things in Morgan however, have flooded including my dad's field.

It looks a little more like a lake these days than an alfalfa field.

The flooding isn't all bad.  It gives the kids a  new place to play as you can see here. 

Will my parents house flood this year? Who truly knows.  The question comes up truly every spring.  Is it going to flood or not flood.  I hope they will be able to stay dry for another year.

Happy Birthday Dad!!

We celebrated my Dad's 66th birthday yesterday.  All of the little girls made him birthday cards and they were all so lovely.  Kim made an awesome German Chocolate Cake from scratch that was amazing!

Then there was the Happy Birthday singing.  From the pictures below you can see Ethan and AJ both took it very seriously.  I have to say I am a tiny bit disappointed in myself that I didn't record the amazing voices of them belting out Happy Birthday to their grandpa.  

Why Ethan is pulling that face I do not know.  And AJ's look as if he is trying out for American Idol was all I could handle.  We laughed for ever over their natural talent and singing control.  

I don't know if anyone could have done better.  It was a lot of fun. Happy Birthday to my Dad!  I love you all the way!

Race for the Cure 2011

I look forward to the Race for The Cure every year.  This year I experienced more excitement because my Mom decided to participate.

Colette also came to the race again this year.

Kim came and brought a lot of her family members which made for a very fun, emotional race.   I am so proud of my mom for deciding she wanted to walk the race with us.  When we started we thought we would participate in the 1 mile walk.  As we got to the 1 mile marker Mom decided she wanted to go the entire distance.  I was so happy she was pushing herself for such a great cause. 

Breast Cancer or any cancer for that matter is no respecter of persons.  It effects the old, the young, the happy, the healthy, the depressed.  It is an awful disease.  The Race for The Cure is a fight specifically against Breast Cancer.  I am happy to participate and hopefully make a small difference in the lives of women, friends, husbands and children that have to experience the trials of this disease. 

HAPPY MOTHER's DAY!

I want to say Happy Mother's Day to my Mom.  She is an amazing lady.  I am grateful for everything she has taught me and all of the support she gives me.  She is very special to me.  I hope she has a wonderful Mother's day!

Ole Ole Ole REAL Salt Lake

I liked watching soccer while I was in High School.  And then I served a mission in Brazil and learned to love soccer.  I've been a fan of REAL Salt Lake for years.  Wednesday night they played in the CCL Cup finals here in Salt Lake against Monterrey Mexico.  My friend Kelli came along for the fun. I was so excited for the game.  I love watching the REAL play but to be able to watch them in such an elite game was so exciting.  The stands were on fire.

Everyone wearing red and chanting.  This is a picture of Scott, my brother in law with his brother and sisters.  Way to represent, Little Fam!!!  Everyone was standing and screaming the entire time, we never took our seats.  I was glorious, full of energy and fun!  The result was not perfect as we didn't win but I am so proud of our boys!

They played good and hard.  There are always mistake and things people think they could have done better but what happens is what it is.  I love REAL Salt Lake and will always be a fan!!!

Poor Sweet Holly

My niece Holly fell off her bed and broke her collar bone this week.  You can read about it on my sister's blog. She lives in Texas and I was sad I couldn't see her so I sent her some flowers and a teddy bear instead.  I hope she feels better soon and doesn't drive her Mom and Dad too crazy!  I can't imagine having a little one who is so active that has to be restrained.  I admire all of you who have kids.  Your patience and sacrifice are beyond anything I have had to comprehend.  I hope little sweet Holly heals up and feels better soon.  Much love to the sweet little girl!!

Egg Roll, Toss, and Smash

I colored Easter Eggs for the first time as an adult this year.  I didn't do great at it.  I didn't realize it works best if you use vinegar and I didn't have any so I just used water.  The colors didn't turn out very vivid but they were only for the egg roll we had at my moms so it didn't much matter.

Addi and Miya getting ready to roll some eggs.

The egg roll I had planned quickly became and egg toss, then gradually turned into an egg smash!

Gracie getting ready to toss some eggs. 

Easton, Gracie and Kim getting ready to smash some eggs.  We ended up having a contest to see who could them the farthest or throw them the hardest at the fence post to see who could get the best smash.

Addi and Miya gathering the results.  It was so much fun!! Next year the smash is on!!!

Family Matters

Monica and Scott made a quick trip to Utah at the first of the month.  It was so fun to have everyone together.  It doesn't happen often and I love it when it does.  I love everyone in my family very much!

Grandma Beth enjoying the evening.

Monica, with her awesome pregnant belly and Colette.

Seth with his Grandma My.

Colette braving the floor with the little ones.

Seth is biting Charlie!!

Everyone in my family gathered at my parents house this past weekend because Monica and Scott were visiting.  Little boy Seth loves little dog Charlie.  Charlie is great with kids and endures just about anything with the little ones.  Seth pulls his ears and plays with his tags.  They have great fun.

On Sunday we were all sitting around chatting having a good time and Alysha looked over and yelled,  Austin, "Seth is biting Charlie!"  Ha! I looked over and Seth had Charlie's leg grasped in both of his hands and was gnawing away.  It was so funny!  I laughed so hard!  Charlie just sat there like everything was normal.  Luckily Seth has no teeth because he is only 8 months old and Charlie doesn't have any teeth either because they were all extracted.  No that Charlie bit Seth in return.  We all found it hilarious and decided, they make quite the cute little pair!!

The Only Difference

This is one of my darling little nieces. Her name is Miya and she is 5 years old.  She told her Grandma yesterday, "The only difference between me and Annie is that Annie doesn't do the 'Shake your Booty Dance' and I don't have an iPhone."   Haha!  How funny is that?  And truly those are the only differences between us.  I love her so much!!  Kids are the best!!!!  Love you Miya!! 

A Weekend With The Little's

I went to Monica and Scott's in Austin a few weeks ago to spend the weekend.  I flew down Friday afternoon and came back Sunday night.  It was a quick trip but so much fun to see them.

We ate Amy's Icecream.. three times! (We took some home from the store with us)

I met Buzz Light Year.

Holly helped Monica with Family Home Evening.

Holly using her dad as a chair.

We watched some cartoons together.

I kept trying to wrestle Milo.

And I gave Holly and Milo lots of loving.