Anderson Bunch

She's Here

2012-02-17T08:08:00.000-08:00

Near the End

2012-02-01T08:35:00.000-08:00

Since we are very near the end of this pregnancy I just wanted to jot a few things down that I want to remember about it.

-One day Jason and I were discussing middle names. At the time we kind of liked Capri for the first name so in the middle of the conversation Rhett says how about Capri Sun. All we could do is laugh. Ever since then it has been a joke in our family and Aunt Shayli still refers to her as that. Not for long!

-Rhett likes to talk to his little sister. He puts his mouth right up to my belly then talks to her. I can only remember one thing he has said for certain. We were going through some of our girl stuff and he told her we were getting blankets ready for her.

-So far she seems to be a shy little lady. She moves a lot and when I tell someone to come and feel she always stops the second they put their hand on my belly. Maybe she's just a Mommy's Girl!

-One night the family was teasing me a bit about the size of my belly. Halley came walking out of her room with one of her dolls up her shirt and says, "Does this look like a body part to you?" In the beginning I didn't think their jokes were very funny, but Halley made me laugh so hard. I thought that she had come up with this idea all on her own but come to find out it was her Dad who put her up to it. Now that comes as no surprise.

-One name we seriously considered was Bostyn. Rhett has grown very attached to it, no matter what else we suggest he tells everyone that is going to be her name. I hope he's not devastated when we don't use it. I wouldn't be surprised if he still calls her that.

-Jason has been so good to help me out. He gives me a chance to take a nap, he mops and vacuums the floor, forgives my lazy dinners, plays lots with the kids, and has done more grocery shopping the last few months than our whole marriage. Oh plus he goes to work. I love and appreciate him so much!

Well I guess for now we'll go on with everyday life and patiently wait for our family of 5 to become 6.

Big Heart

2012-01-31T20:05:00.000-08:00

When trying to decide what to title this post all I could think of is what a BIG heart my daughter has. She has been growing her hair for a couple of years now. It was getting really long and beautiful. One day we were talking about Locks of Love and ever since then all she has wanted to do is give her hair to some other little girl who needs it. So brace yourself here we go!

Before

Aunt Shayli holding her breathe as
she takes the first cut.

After

I think we were all a little shocked at the shortness at first but it really is cute. I wish I would have taken a picture of how much we sent in the mail the other day. Sometimes she misses her long hair because she wants to do braids, ropes, curls, and other fun stuff but she likes how easy her new do is.

I'm so grateful for Halley's example of service.

Ty's First Derby

2012-01-31T19:49:00.000-08:00

This month Ty got to participate in his first cub scout pinewood derby.
He was so excited. He wanted his Dad to help him work on it the day they handed them out, even though they had a month until the actual race. I enjoyed watching the two of them get his car all ready. Jason didn't try to persuade him, he let him design it all by himself. When it came to painting Jason showed him some techniques he uses at work. I think it was fun for Jason to share some of what he does each day and Ty liked getting to learn a little bit more about what Dad does.

Showing off his own design. Each boy was given an award, Ty got one for having the best INDY car look alike. We don't get too involved with car racing at our house so I had to explain to Ty what that even meant.

His car in the line up, waiting for the big race.

Watching as his car reaches the finish line.

For our first year it was kind of a rough go. The saddest part of the story is that Jason didn't get to go, but luckily there are more derbies in Ty's future for Dad to be too. We weren't prepared for the weigh in and needed more weight. Some of the kind members of our ward lended us their change and tape to help out a little. In the end, Ty finished second in all of his races but one. Overall he had fun and is already looking forward to next year.

Basketball

2012-01-31T19:34:00.000-08:00

If you haven't noticed by now, Ty loves pretty much any sport and wants to try them all. This winter he has been giving basketball a try. He is working really hard, having fun ,and working up a sweat. Maybe it's just because I'm his mom but I'd say he's a pretty good little player. I think he has made at least one basket at almost all of his games. It's kind of funny, if the coach notices a player on the other team making a lot of their points he'll have Ty guard him instead of someone else. That's my boy! OK so he doesn't get his skills from me. He is looking forward to his game this week because he gets to play against one of his best buds from school. I think the only thing that would make him enjoy his games just a little more is if his team would actually win one. Oh well I'm always trying to teach him that it is about having fun too!

Here are a few pictures of Ty showing off his skills.

Dribbling

Should I go for it or should I pass. . .that is the question!

Defense

Keep up the good work Ty. We love watching you give it your all!

Crafty

2012-01-29T13:25:00.000-08:00

The other day I was working on a project for the baby on the sewing machine. Halley wanted to work on her own project too. I had to round up some material for her and then she got started. She measured, cut, and taped until she had a new canopy for her stroller. I'm certain that there are many more crafty projects in her future. It was fun to have us both working on our projects together!

Whose Boy Are You?

2012-01-29T13:04:00.000-08:00

When Rhett is asked this question the answer is always DAD'S BOY!! He loves his Dad sooo much and always wants to do things with him.

It looks like on this day he talked his dad into building with the blocks.

The finished masterpiece.
Nobody can build with the lincoln logs quite like Jason.

Gingerbread House

2012-01-29T12:52:00.000-08:00

I know I'm slow. . .
For Christmas this year our family got a gingerbread house as a gift so while the kids were on their school break we put it together.

Ty was really interested at first until his mom wouldn't let him eat ALL the candy he wanted. So in the end it was pretty much me, Halley and Rhett that worked on it. The icing was pretty stiff so our gingerbread house follows the theme of, "Less is More"

Jason was running the camera, love this picture he took of Rhett helping me put it together.
I think he lost interest in taking pictures so I don't have any of us actually putting the candy on. That's ok though.

Birthday Fun

2012-01-17T19:35:00.000-08:00

Since we had Halley's birthday party early we promised to do something fun as a family on her real birthday. We went to this fun park in Logan where the kids got to roller skate for the first time. I think it ended up being harder than they thought but they still had fun. Halley wouldn't give up for anything, she didn't want any help even if that meant falling. The poor girl ended up with a couple of bruises by the time she was done.

Rhett gave it a try for a few minutes and then decided he wanted to hang out with Mom.

Ty hanging on for dear life. He wasn't as interested after a few falls so he went and spent his arcade tokens. He surprised me when he came back for another try, by the time we left he wasn't doing too bad. I was happy he didn't give up so easily.

I think the kids were surprised to find that Jason actually knew how to skate. You know I was a little surprised at his skills myself. It's fun that even after almost 10 years we are learning new things about each other. He was such a good sport about trying to help everyone learn. I kind of felt left out just watching but I thought it best to play it safe for the baby's sake.

Rhett enjoying the skating from the bench.

I love this picture!

This little air hockey table was so fun for the kids especially with a little help from Dad.

Afterwards we ordered pizza and went home to enjoy it.

Christmas Day

2012-01-12T12:34:00.000-08:00

Christmas always has special moments especially when you have kids like when. . .

-they ohh and ahh at the Christmas lights as you drive by

-carefully pick a gift they hope their sibling will like

-pack plates of goodies to the neighbors

-sing songs of Christ's birth with the Primary

This year we experienced a new one. . .

-not sleeping most of the night because you just can't wait to see what Santa brought!

It is a tradition at our house that the kids sleep on their parents floor on Christmas Eve. Jason and his brothers did this growing up and so the tradition goes on. I'm surprised it hadn't happened before this year, but Ty was up most of the night, which means so I was. I had a hard time getting too upset because I remember years ago when I used to be the same way.

At first we all thought our tree was a pretty sad one but now that it's gone we miss it!

Looks like Santa found them all. . .

Ty's Santa stuff

Halley's Santa Stuff

Rhett's Santa Stuff

I couldn't believe how fast they all opened the presents this year.

I didn't even get a chance to take pictures. Some of our favorite things. . .

Ty & Jason got tickets to go see the Aggies play basketball.

Rhett got his own fancy cowboy boots and CARS 2

Halley got a Barbie game for the DS and clip on earrings.

Brooke got the complete series of Dr Quinn Medicine Woman

Lookin' good for church in some of their new Christmas clothes.

Nativity

2012-01-12T10:21:00.000-08:00

I've been having a lot of trouble getting blogger to upload my pictures so I'm blaming my delayed posting on that, with that said. . .

In Jason's family it is a tradition to go to his Grandma Karen's for Christmas Eve. Now there are enough great-grand kids that the last few years we have been doing the Nativity story and letting the kids help.

Rhett is so shy that he just couldn't bear being a sheep unless of course Grandpa joined him.
Grandpa is such a good sport.

Mary(Halley) admiring her beautiful baby!
Won't it be special when we really do have one to hold and love.

No gathering at Grandma Karen's is complete without some of Aunt Vickie's games.

I guess the point of this game is to see how many Christmas cards you can get into the basket. I didn't try it but they tell me it's a lot harder than it looks. Anyways, as you can see Ty actually did get one or two in.

After Grandma Karen's we like to go home and spend some time just as our "little" family. We used to open one present on Christmas Eve but it is now a tradition to open two. The kids have been exchanging names the last few years, so they like to open the gift they picked out for each other and of course their jammies.This year we did something new. We all decided on a gift we wanted to give to Jesus, because without him we wouldn't have any of our other gifts.

I did a really lazy job with the picture taking this Christmas, I'm blaming that on being pregnant. Anyways we'll just have to enjoy the pictures I got and sorry family if I missed getting a shot of you.

Sad but True

2011-12-19T07:54:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true the week before Christmas my kids are playing in the leaves instead of the snow. I tell people all the time that we could rake our leaves at Christmas but I'm not sure they believe me. Well here is the proof.

New Game

2011-12-19T07:49:00.000-08:00

Every year at Christmas time the businesses in the community have coloring contests. In the past we have not participated but this year Halley really wanted to hand one in. So we took her beautifully colored elf picture to Rudd Funeral Home, she was so excited a week later when we got the call that she had won. Halley colors really well, but I'm sure it helped her chances a little that her Grandpa works there part time.

Anyways her prize for winning was the game Twister. We didn't already have this game so it worked out good. Of course they couldn't wait to try it out.

They didn't exactly play the game right but gave it a good effort and in the mean time they had a great time. It is special when all your kids are doing something together and not fighting and having fun.

Definitely a "Kodak Moment"!

Temple Lights

2011-12-19T07:36:00.000-08:00

On the 10th after Halley's party we rode the front runner train with our families down to Salt Lake to see the lights at Temple Square. Just a couple of shots of some of us on the train.

Halley and I

Grandpa Randy and Grandma Polli

Jason with his niece Lily
(she really likes her mom so it was precious that she would even sit with him)

Shayli always gets to share Brayli with our kids. It doesn't get much sweeter than this.
I'm pretty excited to see them with their own little sister(in a few months that is).

Despite the huge amount of people at the visitor's center, we made sure to get a picture with our family in front of this beautiful statue of Christ. It touched my heart when Halley pointed out that she could she the nail prints in his hands.

In my old age of 29 I didn't want to deal with the cold or the crowds so I didn't get any pictures of the lights. I think every one's favorite was the nativity that was "floating" in the big pool of water right in front of the temple. That is a new addition since I was there last, simple yet beautiful.

All in all the whole trip was a little more than we bargained for. . .

huge crowds everywhere

restuartant experience not so good

missed the front runner we wanted to ride

got home pretty late

so next time I think we'll stay closer to home!

Early Party

2011-12-16T19:06:00.000-08:00

Halley's birthday is really at the end of the month but most of our family was coming to town the weekend of the 10th so we had an early party. I like to let my kids pick what they have on their birthday cake and this year she wanted Little Pet Shop. So we sent our Little Pet Shop invitations and made a cake to match.

Halley had fun helping put the toy and candles on her own cake.
Side note: Rhett got to go the store with me and pick out the new pet to go on her cake. It was fun watching him decide which one he thought she'd like best. Gotta love the sunglasses that came with it.

                                                    Opening one of her many presents.
     Check out those eyelashes, I'm afraid we're going to be fighting off some boys in the future.
                                      Seriously though it just amazes me how beautiful she is.

I like that you can see her smiling over this present. A girl can never have too much lip stuff.

As you can see Halley totally loved this gift. She definitely is a shoe girl.

She ended up with lots of presents as usual.

It makes me, as a parent, so grateful for our families and all the love and support our kids get. We are so blessed. By the end of the party she had lots of new pet shop toys to play with, ballerina clothes (which she has danced around the house in every day since), lip stuff, boots, and other fun girl things.

Christmas Tree

2011-12-02T19:15:00.000-08:00

A family tradition for me as a child was going on Thanksgiving day into the Wyoming mountains to find a Christmas tree. I remember having lots of fun playing in the snow with my family, some complaining, and waiting for my mom to pick just the right tree. When I got older I remember my parents asking me what I thought of each tree and letting me help them decide. It means a lot to me that Jason understands how much I love that tradition and helps our family do the same when possible.

                                          This year it was kind of a rough go for us. . .
                                            -it was snowing and the wind was blowing lots
                                            -I'm pregnant (so not my usual mountain hiking self)
                                            -Rhett's legs are just too short to pack him through the deep snow
                                            -All the years of tree hunting have left little to choose from
                                          But we didn't come home empty handed. . .

                                       Jason unstrapping our "Christmas Vacation" tree.
                               It seems a little wrong to be unloading a tree in a yard with no snow.

Our real tree this year is very wimpy so I made a few paper ornaments.
Rhett placing his in just the right spot.

And the smile to follow.
If the sparkle in his eye doesn't make you feel the Christmas spirit I don't know what will.

Awards

2011-12-02T18:51:00.000-08:00

Ty is in scouts now and loves to do things that will help him earn the awards. It is a little difficult to get a good picture at pack meeting but you get the idea. For the award he got this month he tried really hard. One of the requirements is a back roll (I know, who needs a back roll, even a scout). Anyways he was having a really hard time with it, all the scouts in his group did it with no sweat and no matter how hard he tried he couldn't get it. I hate to say, that is something he gets from his mother, I've never been good at those kind of things. We even practiced at home with him, probably a month later he ran in the door after scouts and gave me a big hug while yelling I did a back roll. He was so proud and so was I.

We went to Halley's school for a little awards program. She got a Cougar Citizenship award because she listens carefully to directions and completes her work neatly and well. I think she was a little surprised because I brought her Dad with me too. He only had a few hours of sleep but really wanted to support Halley.
Giving me a big grin after she got her award!

Receiving her award from the principal.

I am grateful that my kids try their best in all they do. Keep up the good work kiddos.

Who Knew. . .

2011-12-02T12:14:00.000-08:00

Who knew our family would look so good as stick figures.

Halley is our little artist and ever since she learned how to draw people she draws our family with all their names on everything.

Who knew Ty could throw a grape into the air and catch it in his mouth the first try.

Actually he can do it with more than just grapes. Just a new talent we discovered this week.

Who knew Rhett could color inside the lines.

I have tried to get him to do this a couple of times but he had no interest. All of a sudden he is coloring beautiful inside the line pictures and he is so proud.

Who knew Ty could get a casserole out of the oven all by himself.

The other night I was busy with Halley and the timer kept going off, finally I came to get it out of the oven when I found Ty, casserole and hot pads in hand putting it onto a hot pad he had put on the cupboard.

Who knew Halley could thread a needle all by herself.

We have been stringing popcorn to put on the Christmas tree. Halley was having her turn when the thread came out of the needle. I told her I would be right there to fix it and next thing I knew she had done it herself.

Who knew Rhett could sing "I am a Child of God" all by himself.

We have heard him sing bits and pieces before but he surprised us all with a solo recently. He sure loves it too, he picks it to sing every night before we read scriptures.

I guess the moral of this post is that my kids are growing up way too fast and if I give them the chance they can do more than I give them credit for. I love them so much and hope they never forget that they are all "children of god".

Dress Up

2011-11-22T12:28:00.000-08:00

Other people's kids do this too right?!
The other day these two were playing quietly and then they came out like this.

Costumes

2011-11-22T12:21:00.000-08:00

For Halloween this year we went to the East Garland ward trunk or treat with Grandma and Grandpa. Daddy had to work this year, we missed having him with us.

Group shot of our trick or treaters.

Halley wanted to be a kitty, so I made her some ears and a tail. In the end she decided not to wear the tail, some cats don't have tails, right?! Along with her nose and whiskers requested mascara for her eyelashes. She feels sooo big when I let her wear my makeup.
I think she is the prettiest black kitty ever!!!

Rhett was originally going to be a lion, we had borrowed the cutest lion suit from Aunt Kathy. The kids were getting ready when Rhett informs me he is not going to be a lion. He had decided he wanted to be a cowboy just like his Uncle Mitch had been at the family party. So I hurried around the house trying to find a cowboy costume. I guess he's lucky we had the stuff on hand. I'm glad I let him be what he wanted because he loved it. In fact he has been dressing up like a cowboy ever since.

And here is our Frankenstein, he thought it was pretty funny that he didn't have to smile for the picture because I couldn't see his mouth.

Fall Break in Star Valley

2011-11-22T10:10:00.000-08:00

In October the kids always have a few days off school so we went to visit our family in Star Valley.

One of the days we took a picnic to the park and played on the toys. Then we hiked up to Intermitten Springs, last time we went I think Ty was just a little guy, so it was fun to go again. Just a little info, it is the biggest intermitten springs in the world, at certain times of the year it automatically turns off every fifteen minutes and then it will start back up again. Pretty cool!

It was fun to see my parents goofing around with each other.

I couldn't resist getting a shot of this.

I guess it is obvious that Shayli and Brayli live with my parents that is because she is going through a divorce.
I love how Jason took it upon himself to teach Brayli how to watch football this visit.

Ok so my computer isn't cooperating so this is for the picture above. Before Brayli was born grandma bought Halley and Brayli a matching outfit. So of course we had to have a little photo shoot with them together. This picture doesn't show the whole outfit but it was my favorite.

My kids pretend on old cell phones that they are texting, but thanks to Grandma, Halley knows how to for real now. These two spent the longest time sitting there as Grandma told Halley what buttons to push to text for real. Halley loved every minute of it.

Each time we visit there has to be a cooking session with Grandma. This time me made sugar cookies since it was about Halloween.

I don't know about you but I can never eat just one of these delicious cookies.

I must say my mom's recipe is the best.

The thing the kids really wanted to do the most is rake and play in the leaves. We have lots of our own leaves but they don't fall off the trees until late November or December and it's too cold to have much fun with them.

Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for such a great time.

Halley's Kindergarten Field Trip

2011-11-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

Halley wanted me to go on her field trip with her so Jason took work off so he could stay home with Rhett. It was a busy field trip, there were lots of stops but the kids seemed to enjoy it. We went to the BRV hospital for a tour, a pumpkin patch, the Logan fire department, and Willow Park.

Halley and I riding the bus!

I couldn't resist taking this beautiful fall picture before all the kids ran out there.

The owners told the kids if they could pack the pumpkin they could take it home. And they're off!

Halley searching for just the right one.

After giving it a good look she decided this wasn't the one.

I thought we were set to go with this one but at the last minute she changed her mind. I'm sure she doesn't get that from her mother. I didn't get a picture of the one she ended up with but it was a cute teeny tiny one.

The fire station was the best place we stopped, at least I thought so. I was kicking myself for leaving my camera on the bus. The fireman let all the kids get in the ambulance, try on their special clothes, and they showed them how to slide down the pole.Cutest fire woman I've ever seen!!!

Having lunch at the park, who knew she could eat with her eyes closed. j/k
After lunch we went inside the learning center at the park and learned about animals.
Halley got to pet a box turtle. I know I learned lots on this field trip and I think Halley did too.
What a great day I had with my daughter!

FHE Pumpkins

2011-11-02T16:42:00.000-07:00

Jason took a night off a week or two before Halloween so we did pumpkins a little early this year. It was nice to actually have family home evening on a Monday. It was so much work helping the kids with their pumpkins that Jason and I didn't do anything with ours, maybe we'll cook the seeds later.

Everyone hard at work

Rhett actually used several different colors but because of his painting style they ended up all blending together to make it look like he just used black. Oh well he didn't seem to mind.

Halley is the artist of the family, so of course she chose to paint her pumpkin.

Who doesn't love a pumpkin with polka dots?!

Jason is our go to man for gutting and carving.

Here he is hamming it up for the camera.

Ty always chooses to carve his pumpkin, maybe because he likes the chance to use a sharp object. Who knows? We used to have to do all the work for him but now he can do most of it himself.

Taking One for the Team

2011-11-01T19:29:00.000-07:00

This last Saturday at Ty's baseball game, he got hit in the eye when he was up to bat. It was a full count and he had backed away from a strike so the coach hollered for him to stay in there and hit the ball. Just what any coach would do, not knowing that the next pitch would smack Ty right in the eye. The poor kid fell right to the ground, his coaches were right there and so were all of his teammates. It hurt bad enough that he didn't want to play anymore baseball that day. We thought for sure that he would end up with a really nice black eye but nope! We were totally surprised when it turned just a little purple and nothing else.

Side note: Ty was given a journal when he got baptized. Once and awhile he will feel like something in his life is worth adding to this journal, so he will ask me to help him with it. The night he got hit in the eye he wanted to make a journal entry. It was a neat experience to see what his point of view was of that day. He wrote that as he got up off the ground from being hit everyone clapped for him. I totally don't remember that, I guess I was more focused on making sure my baby was ok. It definitely stuck in his mind though. I guess it was the highlight of a bad day.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2011-10-19T14:44:00.000-07:00

Since summer is officially over we have been staying busy preparing for winter. Jason has been a big help with the air conditioner, winterizing the camping trailer, putting away summer toys, and washing windows (I know I couldn't believe it either). I guess he was a little worried his pregnant wife would fall off the ladder or something. What a great husband I have. . .he was worried about me plus he did the work. He doesn't really like these kind of posts, so I hope he'll forgive me.

Halley & Rhett had a good time on the roof with their Dad.

Taking pictures so I have proof for other years.

Breakfast of Champions

2011-10-11T08:01:00.000-07:00

Once and awhile I try to make cinnamon rolls. They usually turn out ok, but I wanted them to be better. So this time I tried to make them like my mother-in-law. She makes the best cinnamon rolls around. They turned out to be the best I've ever made. I hope I didn't just get lucky and can produce them again.

Cinnamon rolls Anderson style require chocolate chips, this is something I learned when I married Jason.
I have to say I'm hooked now too! If you haven't tried them this way, you should!

Ok so cinnamon rolls are not the healthiest breakfast, but once and a while won't hurt.

I think they were a success because Rhett never eats a whole cinnamon roll.

Piggy Bank

2011-10-11T07:24:00.000-07:00

Sometimes my Grandma Turner would give gifts that you just weren't sure what you were going to do with. I know that's how my parents felt about this beautiful piggy bank she gave them once. But I'm sure my grandma is smiling down as she watches Rhett with it.

It never fails, every time we go to Star Valley, Rhett has to put money in the bank. The thing that makes this bank so fun for a 3 year old is that it plays a little song every time you put money in it. So Grandpa Randy will unload a pile of pennies and Rhett will drop them in, one at a time, until they're gone. Then the game starts all over, who knew grandma's piggy bank would be so loved.

Quick Trip

2011-10-09T20:57:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we went to Salt Lake to watch Ty play baseball and from there we took a quick trip to Star Valley because Brayli was being blessed.

Here she is on her special day, beautiful as always.

Having a princess moment.

Grandma Polli's Pretty Princesses!!!

Halley will hold Brayli any chance she gets.

I was taking a four generation picture here for my sister but I couldn't help zooming in.
Priceless isn't it. Grandpa Turner is the best.

The whole Edwards bunch was able to be there, which doesn't happen much these days.

A family photo was my mom's last minute idea, looks like it was a good one.

On our way home we had to stop and enjoy the wildlife.

I wish my camera had better zoom, this picture just doesn't do this animal justice.

Even

2011-10-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

Well according to the ultrasound baby #4 is going to even things out at our house.
That's right we're having a GIRL!

We brought home these pink cookies to help the kids guess the big news. To our surprise everyone was happy with having a sister. Halley was a little funny though. For the last week or two she really wanted a brother, so after hearing it was a sister she had to think for a minute. Then she says, "I already have two brothers so I guess that's enough." Now she is offering all sorts of interesting name options.

Friends

2011-10-07T10:15:00.000-07:00

Last week Shayli and Brayli came to visit for a few days. Rhett was watching a cartoon and wanted Brayli to join him. I sure hope Brayli ends up loving her cousins because they sure do love her.

One-On-One

2011-09-20T07:41:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we were originally going to Ty's ball games but because of rain they got cancelled.
Instead. . .Halley played at a friends house and went to a birthday party. Ty went to watch his cousin play ball with his great-grandpa. So Jason and I got to spend a little one-on-one time with Rhett.

I helped him with this fun airplane kit he got for his birthday.

He was so proud of his work. By the time he was done he had four painted airplanes.

After all that hard work we all took a little nap. Rhett and Jason took theirs in the rocking chair. They had been watching college football together.

Later in the day Rhett helped me make a batch of brownies. The day before Rhett kept asking me if we could make brownies. I was right in the middle of canning 40 bottles of pears, so of course that was out of the question.So I made sure that we got to make those brownies he wanted so bad. It was funny, I was asking him what kind he wanted to make and he said,"The browns ones with frosting." The little guy already knows what he likes. So Cute!

I know there was more to our day but these are just the highlights.

What a great day!!

Post Overload

2011-09-06T15:51:00.000-07:00

The last couple of months I have not been keeping up like I wanted to. After two long days of posting I think I am finally caught up. Hopefully the future will bring more on time posting, but I'm not promising anything!

New Cousin

2011-09-06T15:48:00.000-07:00

The kids were so excited to see their new cousin this weekend(ok I was probably more excited than them). Last week Shayli had her baby and braved the trip to come to our house for the birthday party and baptism. It was so fun to have them. Little Brayli is so cute and precious.

Ty's Big Day

2011-09-06T15:47:00.001-07:00

My baby boy was baptized on September 3rd by his Dad. I have to admit it makes me feel a bit old. Ty has been so excited for this day for some time now. I am so grateful for the gospel in my life and am so glad Ty wants it to be a part of his as well. I think when it came right down to it he was a little nervous but aren't we all. It turned out to be a very special day. Ty had lots of family there to support him, that is no surprise though our families are the best when it comes to supporting. Afterward we had a lunch with all the family and enjoyed being with each other. All in all we had a great day!

Yep, these handsome guys belong to me!

He had been wanting his own new nice set of scriptures for awhile. He was so happy that we gave him some as a baptism gift. They even have his name on the front.

A few weeks before his baptism we had a little photo shoot. I'm obviously not a professional but I have fun with it once and a while. I used some of these to make a fun invitation for our family members. Isn't he looking so grown up and handsome!!!

Birthday Boys

2011-09-06T15:47:00.000-07:00

Ty and Rhett's birthday's are one day apart so they usually end up having to share parties. They don't seem to mind, which I am grateful for. This year we had one BIG PARTY. We had more family there than any party I think we've ever had. It was a pretty nice evening so we had it in our front yard.

Right now Ty is really into Star Wars so that is what kind of cake he wanted this year.

Rhett loves anything Toy Story so that is what he wanted.

Funny Story: I had baked the cakes and had them cooling so I could frost them. I was in another room doing something when Rhett came in and told me,"Mom, I ate my birthday cake." I ran to the kitchen to find this. Sure enough he had some birthday cake. I didn't want to get too upset so I asked him if it tasted good. With a big grin he told me yes. Then I nicely asked him to wait for the party to have more cake and he did!
I had to do a little trimming so the finished product would be ok but no one knows, right?!

At our house it just isn't a birthday without balloons!

Blowing out the candles with a little help from sister.

Present Time

Dad helping Rhett show off his new movie. Rhett loves this show. He is always wanting to borrow it from Grandma Carol, now he has his very own.

Ty so happy to see the gift his mom is still not sure about, a pocket knife.

Gotta love those teeth!

Testing it out (as Mom holds her breath)!

    It was so nice to have so much family there to celebrate with us. Here are just a few of them.

    Aunt Shayli & cousin Brayli

Grandma Kraig, Grandma Carol, & cousin Owen

Edwards Bunch

Aunt Kristy & cousin Lily

Fall Ball

2011-09-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

At the end of July Ty was done with the summer baseball team he had been playing with. I have to admit I was looking forward to not having to take him to practice all the time. Then the next week we get a call from another coach wanting to see if Ty wanted to play on a fall team. So off to practice we went. This team is keeping our Saturdays very full at least for the next few weeks.

Ty with all his gear, ready for the first game on August 27th. He is so proud to be a BEAR! The only thing I can think of that would be better is a BRAVE!

Some of Ty's fan club. . .Aunt Ashley & Uncle Mitch

Mitch is usually on the road with his truck driving job but that weekend he had to take a few hours off and just happened to be in our neck of the woods. We enjoyed having him spend a little time with us.

Hanging out in the dug out, waiting for his turn to bat.

On his summer team he always wanted a chance to pitch but never really got one. The coach of the fall team has been really good about helping Ty work on his skills in practice. We were all so excited when he actually got to pitch in the first game. It felt so good as a parent to watch my son do something he loves and works so hard at. SO PROUD!! Thanks to Ty's other Uncle Mitch for these awesome pictures.

At one point Ty had run over to home to try and get a guy out but instead had a run in with the ball. He told us it hurt and he wanted to cry but he wouldn't let the coach take him out. He wasn't about to miss his chance to finish pitching that inning. I had to take a picture of his face because you can see the thread makes from the ball. CRAZY!!

First Day of School

2011-09-06T15:44:00.001-07:00

This year school started on August 29th. Ty is going to 2nd grade and Halley started kindergarten. The weather is still really nice so I walked with the kids on the first day. Rhett and I have had the chance to spend time playing together while it's just the two of us. I think he is enjoying it but he also loves it when his sister gets home from school so he can play with her.

The sun was too bright for their eyes so we had to cut the photo shoot short but they still look great.
In fact, they're looking a little too grown up.

Friends

2011-09-06T15:44:00.000-07:00

Just a few days before school started the kids had some friends over and had lunch in the backyard.

Bear Lake in August

2011-09-06T15:43:00.001-07:00

Jason's parents rented an old house at Bear Lake for the whole family to go spend a few days. I posted a lot of pictures because we had so many good times I just couldn't leave any out.

I just want to write down some of the things we did so we don't forget. We played baseball, volleyball, had foot races, went on fourwheeler rides, ate lots of good food, went to the beach, talked, laughed, and are already planning to go back next year.

The yard was nice and big with lots of shade to relax in.

Uncle TA was so nice to play with all the kids. Here they are playing baseball.

It looks like here they are about to play catch but I think they were actually getting ready to race. All the cousins had lots of races with Uncle TA and it was so fun to watch, too bad I didn't have my camera out.

There was lots of tractor driving.

Just relaxin' on the grass.

Rhett is such a Daddy's boy. He can never seem to get enough of Jason. Here they are hanging out.

If you have ever gotten a hug from Rhett you know they are the BEST!!

Pretty sure Rhett is giving Jason a wet willy here. . .true family moment!

My kids love their cousins, here Rhett is keeping an eye on Owen.

Of course you can't go to Bear Lake without going to the Beach.

Halley loves to look for shells and take them home to her collection.

Testing the water to see if they dare enter.

Look at my brave guys wading in the chilly water.

Shade Anyone? I think we were all glad Aunt Janet let us bring her shade tent.

Warming up in the bright sun.

These two were building something in the sand together.

Rhett couldn't resist the chance to bury his brother with sand.

Rhett & Uncle TA resting from a long day at the beach.

Dinner Time=Hot Dog Roast

Jason is always doing something to make the rest of us laugh & that's one of the reasons we love him!

Moving Day

2011-09-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

We moved Ty and Rhett's bedroom down to the basement so that the baby can have the upstairs room. We were planning on waiting awhile but the boys were excited and wanted to do it now, so we did. Thanks to Grandpa Kraig and Uncle Mitch for their help. I didn't think about taking pictures until the end so I missed most of the action.

Surprise!!

2011-09-06T15:29:00.000-07:00

On Sunday July 31st, we gave the kids this little gift. They thought it was strange that we would give them a present for no reason but of course they weren't going to turn it down.

So they all helped to open it.

Yes at first glance you may think it was swedish fish but not really.

It was the only box I could find.

By the look on Ty's face it must be something really great right?! The younger ones didn't really know what was going on but Ty knew. It was a picture of an ultrasound. That's right we're having baby #4!

Ty was so excited and that was something I wasn't prepared for. I thought Halley would be so excited but she didn't seem happy at all. Finally I got her to tell me that she wouldn't believe it was true until I have a fat belly. Well that will come soon enough. Rhett was funny because he just kept walking around with the box saying, "No fish!"

A little time has passed now and everyone is excited. The only problem we're having is some of us want a boy and some want a girl. In the end I know we'll all love which ever it is. One time my sister asked Halley what she wanted and she told her Heavenly Father gets to decide. I love all my kids and hope by February I can figure out how to give all 4 of them the love and attention they need and deserve.

Bear Lake in July

2011-08-15T16:22:00.000-07:00

For this little vacation I wanted to take pictures but didn't want to worry about keeping track of my nice camera. So I took a little cheap one and as you can see I have learned my lesson. I am sooo sad most of the pictures didn't turn out. Hopefully all the great times we had will stay in our memory because we had lots of fun. Jason's Dad and family rented a cabin for all of us to go and spend the weekend.

The cabin was way up on the hill. This was the view. Beautiful!!

Fun things we did

-play pool & foosball

-play on swing set & in the sand box

-watch movies

-stay up late

-play cards

-eat yummy food

-go to the beach

-don't forget Aunt Vickie's games

We all had a blast at the beach. Grandpa Kraig and Uncle Joe rented a wave runner.

We all took turns taking rides. This is the first time anyone in our family

has been on one, except Jason. The kids loved it. Jason took Rhett & I

on a ride. Rhett was saying faster Daddy and I was thinking

can we go back now. It took me a little while to actually enjoy myself on it.

Jason buried me in the sand and then Ty dumped a bucket of water down

my neck. So much love! Sorry no picture!

The kids and I buried Jason. I should have dumped

water on him but I refrained.

Rhett played so hard he needed a little nap on Grandma's lap.

I know this picture is really bad but I couldn't leave it out.

Halley rarely left her cousin Hannah's side. Halley is the one

cuddled up to Hannah on the far left, while they watched a movie.

Ty also had himself a buddy the whole time we were at the cabin.

He did everything with his cousin Ryan. Ryan is quite a bit older

than Ty so he was a good sport to hang out with him so much.

Sunday on our way home, Grandma & Grandpa took our family on a little hike.

I think it was my favorite thing we did. It was so peaceful walking along the trail

with our family enjoying nature. I think this is a cute picture of us

but it's hard to tell. SOOO SAD!!

There were signs along the way that taught us about nature.

Ty wanted to be the official sign reader.

Everybody wants a turn on Daddy's shoulders.

Halley got to have a turn on Grandpa's shoulders.

Oh so lucky!

I don't have pictures of these things but they're worth recording.

One of the days Ty and Grandpa went fishing with Karenlee and her family. We really didn't think they were going to catch much fish because they went in the middle of the day and it was hot. We really couldn't believe it when they got back and had got 15 fish. WOW! Yes, Ty caught one of them.

While the others went fishing some of us drove to Montpelier to watch Bryant play some baseball. It was really hot so Rhett and I walked over to the park to get a drink. To our surprise, they were having a car show at the park. Believe it or not, I LOVE old cars.Rhett and I had a good time together walking around looking at the cars and drinking our pop. It was so cute when Rhett would see a car he liked, he'd say, "That's COOL!" When we got tired of walking around we sat down in the grass and listened to the band they had playing. It's special times like these I want to hold on to forever!

Cousins

2011-08-15T12:38:00.000-07:00

Aunt Kathy had some of her grandkids visiting so the kids went down to play with them. Living by Kathy is a special treat, we get to spend time with family that other wise we probably wouldn't get to. It was a little while ago, according to my computer I took these pictures on July 12th.

Halley loves Sadie and always thinks she needs help with everything.

I find it funny because Rhett and Sadie are the same age but Halley

doesn't seem to think Rhett needs help with anything.

This is Rhett looking at Aunt Kathy's slip-n-slide thinking he's ready to give it a try.

Half way there he decides I think I'll stop here.

Finally he goes for it and the poor guy crashes half way down.
By the end of the day, he was loving it but only if the water was turned off to it.

Coolin' off with a drink.

Cousins and friends basking in the sun.

Sadly some how I missed getting a picture with Blaire and Alexa who were also there having fun.

After all the fun was over, Grandpa Leon bought pizza for our dinner.

What a fun summer day making memories with family.

Things we've done. . .

2011-08-15T10:04:00.000-07:00

We have been doing a lot of things this summer and it seems that I have failed to get pictures of most of it. But I like to think that I have a good excuse
. So I'm going to write about the things we have done to help us remember our summer.

-We got lunch at Old Grist Mill and took it to Willow Park. We ate and looked at all the animals. As we have gone there year after year it seems that Ty likes the Bald Eagle best. We spent the most time feeding the ducks and watching the big fish. It was nice to spend the afternoon together.

-It has become a tradition in our family to go to a Salt Lake Bees baseball game every summer. We always go to one where they have a firework show afterward. It is the best fireworks I have ever seen. We love it, even though it does get a little loud at times. It doesn't seem like we see much of the game sometimes between potty breaks, waiting in line for snacks, pestering strangers, and etc. I often wonder if it is worth it but from the start of the summer all I hear is, "When are we going to the Bees?" So it looks like the tradition must go on.

-Jason and I got to go on a hot date over to Logan and even spend the night.We try to get away about once a year, it's always nice to spend some time just the two of us. Thanks to Grandma Carol for taking care of the kids. The kids love having sleep overs at Grandma and Grandpa's. I think it is because they get to stay up late, have treats, ride the four wheeler, and eat mickey mouse pancakes for breakfast. Who wouldn't love all that.

-After our date to Logan, we took the kids to the movie theatre to see CARS 2. They are so funny at the movies, they laugh so loud at everything. Sometimes we have to tell them to be a little quite so they don't bother everyone else. I guess movies are funnier at the theatre. It's a cute show. Poor Rhett fell asleep and missed half of the show, but he didn't seem to mind.

I'm sure I'll think of more things to add to this list but this is it for now.

Shower for Shayli

2011-08-15T09:45:00.000-07:00

On July 28th we went to Star Valley to have a baby shower for Shayli. There was a really good turn out. We had fun playing games, telling her how cute all the gifts were, and of course eating. We are all so excited to have a cousin on the Edwards side, we just can't wait. You would have thought the shower was for Halley too, she wouldn't leave Shayli's side for a second. Thanks Aunt Shayli for letting her share your party.

Halley helping Shayli figure out how many squares of toliet paper

it takes to go around her pregnant belly. I think it was 10.

She had lots of help opening presents.

Halley helping pack the gifts to Grandma's house.

BiG BOYS

2011-07-12T21:23:00.000-07:00

Just this week Rhett has become potty trained. He is loving his big boy underwear. Because it is so hot at our house Ty sleeps in his underwear but Rhett prefers to wear jammies. The other morning Rhett and I had been up for awhile when Ty woke up and came out and sat in the chair. All of a sudden Rhett was gone, a few minutes later he comes running out of his room with no jammies just undies. He climbed up in the chair next to Ty with a big smile. I guess he just wanted to be like his big brother. It's so hard to believe how BIG my boys really are getting.

Play Ball

2011-07-12T21:05:00.000-07:00

Ty had is first baseball game of the year the same day Halley had her tonsils out. I stayed home with Halley while Jason, Rhett, and Shayli went to watch. This picture is showing how the rain clouds were rolling in just as the game was starting. Yep, he had to play his first game in a little rain.

Here Ty is up to bat. I think he batted twice. One of the times he walked to his base. Ty watches the pitches really careful so if the pitch isn't good he won't swing. He's learning quick.

Fourth Fun

2011-07-12T20:49:00.000-07:00

The kids got to stay up late so they could do some sparklers. They had a lot of fun dancing around with their fireworks. We also got to watch a few big ones from around the neighborhood. It felt so good outside by 10:00 it was hard to get everyone to come in.

Rhett had fallen asleep because it is just too hard for a 2 year old to stay awake that late. I knew I'd feel bad if I let him sleep through the family fun so I woke him up. He wasn't so sure about his sparklers.

By the end he was having a blast watching Ty and Halley.

He still wasn't interested in holding his own sparklers though.

Maybe next year.

Gotta love his punch mustache!

This was earlier in the day when they were sharing a few

boxes of POP ITS!

Tonsils

2011-07-05T15:48:00.000-07:00

Halley has had a lot of trips to the doctor this spring. Most of them resulted in her having strep throat. After having it four times in two and a half months the decision was made for her to get her tonsils out. So last Tuesday on June 28th Halley went to the hospital to have surgery. It was nice to have Shayli visiting us so she could help with the boys. We just don't know what we're going to do when she has her own baby here soon and isn't available so often.

Anyway, everything with the surgery went really well. Before they took her back they put some spray up her nose to start to relax her. She was sitting on Jason's lap and you could tell the medicine was kicking in because she almost fell off a couple of times. Jason had to put his hand on her shoulder so she would stay up. Then she would try and talk to us and say the same word over again probably three times. I had to cover my mouth a couple of times so she couldn't see me laughing at her. For the most part she did really well with the recovery. The first night was pretty rough with one throwing episode, tears because it hurt, and her asking if she could have her tonsils back. Poor girl! Other than that she's been a champ. I can't help but think how blessed she is to have so many people who love her and show her that they do. She has had visits, gifts, treats, phone calls, and prayers from: parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, and home teachers. Thanks to all of you. She is back to her normal self wanting to eat anything I'll let her and play with friends. We are all looking forward to Halley having a little less strep thoart!!!

Her she is relaxing with the cute blanket the hospital volunteers made.

(I wonder if Grandma Karen helped?!)

Splashin' at the Pool!

2011-07-05T15:22:00.000-07:00

We went to an outdoor pool for the first time this summer.

We went to the Brigham City pool, the kids seem to like it best.

Not the best picture, but still cute right?!

In years past our kids have been too afraid to try the big slide but not this year.

Ty tried it and LOVED it. He would go down over and over and over.

Here he is on his way up.

This is right after he landed in the water.

And on his way out to go again.

Halley loves getting a shower from the mushroom.

Halley loving the LITTLE slide.

Rhett didn't like it much at first but by the end he loved it too.

This picture isn't too good because I had to zoom my little camera out so far.

Rhett & his ball, a very good purchase. He had so much fun

just kicking it around. Sorry about the sheep bum, it runs in the family.

No swimming pool trip is complete without Aunt Shayli.

Snack Time

OOPS! Halley forgot to keep her eyes open.

Rhett chillin' on the lounge chair. The sun was so bright he borrowed my glasses.

We really had lots of fun and they're already asking when we get to go again.

Swimming Lessons

2011-07-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

I'm kind of sad because I don't have any pictures of this years swimming lessons but I do have a good reason. All of the kids had their classes at the same time, including Rhett. Because of his age, Rhett could only take the Mom and Me class, that's right I have no pictures because I was busy with Rhett in his class. Rhett loves the pool so we had a good time together singing the songs and trying out different skills together. I think his favorite thing was throwing a toy and then practicing swimming to get it. It was kind of funny every time the class played this game the teacher would say, "Watch out for Rhett's arm." He could throw his toy a lot farther than the other kids and sometimes hit people with it (on accident of course).

Because I was busy I didn't really get to see what was going on with the other two but Halley did mention how a girl in her class kept grabbing on to her arm when they were supposed to be swimming. She didn't like that much.

Swimming lessons last two weeks and during part of that time I had a really bad cold. One day I just didn't feel like I could handle swimming so Rhett and I skipped our class. I watched that day from upstairs some times paying attention to the kids sometimes not. All of a sudden the lifeguard blows his whistle, I look over and there was Ty just about ready to drown. I sat there quietly but inside I was a mess. Luckily the teacher from the mom and me class was nearby and saved him.Talk about scary. I was soooo glad the lifeguard was paying attention and that someone was there to help. After I could tell he was safe, I figured he would be too worked up and sacred to finish that day but nope. He just went on like nothing happened. I was surprised but glad the whole thing hadn't bothered him as much as me. Later when we got home he told me not to be mad at his teacher because it was his first year and still has things to learn.(our lessons are taught by the high school swim team) The teacher does have things to work on but I wasn't mad just glad Ty's alive.

Rhettsky

2011-06-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

When Rhett was just little Jason's brother Brady started calling him "Rhettsky". I think he got it from Wayne Gretzky, the hockey player, but with Rhett instead. Brady, correct me if I wrong. Anyways the nickname has stuck with him ever since. I have a lot of fun pictures of him lately so I thought I'd share. Rhett certainly has his own personality. He is my trouble maker and little cutie all in one.

Cookie Monster

(that's what we started calling him after I took these pictures)

It was getting close to dinner time and Rhett kept asking if he could have an Oreo Cookie.

I had told him NO but that he could have one after dinner. Obviously I was busy doing something in the other room and he took the opportunity to get what he wanted. He really probably should have had a time out or something but all I could do was smile and take pictures.

Enjoying his cookies pink eye and all.

Wouldn't be a ball game without a hat.

Rhett at one of Halley's t-ball games.

I had to add this one because I love how he's biting his lip.

Patiently(or maybe not) waiting for dinner to be ready at Grandma Polli's house.

Sweetest thing ever. . .trying to feel cousin Brayli kick in Aunt Shayli's belly.

Taking a cat nap with his dad on Father's Day at Grandma Polli's house.

Father's Day

2011-06-24T05:25:00.000-07:00

This year the kids and I did a little project for Father's Day. They each cut out their own number one and then they got to decorate it with glitter however they wanted. I don't usually do crafty things like this with the kids because of the mess but it was a lot of fun. I might consider doing it more often. Then they smiled for the camera to get this cute picture. I made cards for all the special Dad's and Grandpa's in our life and wrote

We think you're #1!

At the end they got to sign or scribble their name in the card. It was so neat to see how excited they were to help and have fun all at the same time. We are so lucky to have a lot of number 1 men in our lives!

Halley's Playing T-Ball

2011-06-24T05:09:00.000-07:00

The t-ball season started out kind of rough. Halley missed a couple games because she was sick and then there were a couple they played in the wind and rain. As a parent I was not enjoying myself trying to support her in the wind and rain and I just wanted the coach to say it was over. Halley was such a good sport though. She stood out there and gave it her best even though she was cold and wet. I was so proud of her. Now we're complaining because it's too hot. But still no matter the weather Halley is doing great.

Here is she doing her job as the catcher putting the ball on the tee.

Sitting in line with her team waiting for her turn to bat.

Batter Up!

Halley is actually really good at hitting the ball.

She hits it on her first try almost every time and it goes a long way.

I wish I could take credit for her skills but I'm pretty sure they came from her Dad.

. . .and she runs the bases.

all the way to home!

Did you know you can play t-ball in a skirt?

Halley just wants to be fashionable & sporty.

Keep up the good work sister!

My Girl

2011-06-10T19:34:00.000-07:00

Tonight while I cleaned Leon's house Halley played on his typewriter, probably the only use it gets these days. When she was done she brought me this piece of paper totally filled with random letters. Usually she'll ask me to read it to her.You know the kind where you have no idea what it's suppose to say and they get offended when you don't read it just how they wrote it. Well tonight was different and she wanted to read it to me. I can't remember word for word but it went something like this...

Dear Mom,
I love when you cook for me, breakfast, lunch, and dinner.(that line was mentioned several times) I love when you tuck me in and lay by me and read me books. I love when you play with me. Thank you for cleaning up my stuff. I love you and are glad you are my Mom.

Then she asked if I liked it. I had to hold back the tears as I told her how much I loved it. It really helped me realize my kids do notice all I do for them. I love "My Girl" and her personality that makes her one of a kind. When I look at her I can't help but think how beautiful she is. Thanks Halley for your love note tonight.

These are some shots of me and her messing around in front of the camera tonight.

Art Gallery

2011-06-10T19:04:00.000-07:00

My kids love to turn our sidewalks into works of art with sidewalk chalk. It is unusual for me to find all of them working on a masterpiece at one time. They told me it was a big ship with all sorts of fun stuff, kind of like a cruise ship. I love little moments like these when we all get along and enjoy being together. I hope the summer is filled with them.

First Day of Summer

2011-06-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our first day of summer (a.k.a no more school until August). We had a bunch of work to get done but we also made time for a bit of fun.

We have had this outdoor set since last year but this is the first time we actually had it out. I think we're going to enjoy using it this summer. All we need now is a grill.(Update: we went and bought a grill today. I'm excited because that means Jason cooks dinner!)

Doing big boy tricks on the swing.

Everybody pitched in to wash the truck.
It was fun working together, squirting one another, and getting wet.
Because there were so many little helpers, in the end it didn't
turn out that clean.
Oh well, who needs a clean car(truck) anyway?!

Plymouth Mountain

2011-06-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

Every Memorial Day weekend Jason's family on his mom's side has a reunion. They go camping about 20 minutes from our home. They have been having this reunion for 32 years now, that is what I call a tradition. It's neat to be part of something like this. The kids love getting to play with cousins, getting dirty, and staying up late. This year our family was looking forward to having a trailer because at some point it always rains.

Our first meal in the trailer. . .Spaghettios. . .yum!! Ok, maybe not to everyone but the kids enjoyed them.

In & Out: that's the name of the game. Just can't decide where he wants to be.

Ty and Uncle TA playing a little catch. Our kids have great uncles, they are always willing to play with the kids. THANKS GUYS!

Time to hit the sand hill. Halley-Rhett-Hudson-Tate There is a huge sand hill on the mountain. The kids play on it for hours at a time.
Rhett waiting to see if his cousin will ever get all that sand out of his boot.

Uncle Mitch showing us all how to use the new smore contraption he gave Kraig for his b-day.

Can't go camping without hot cocoa. Thanks to Grandma Carol for remembering to bring some.

Rhett and Hudson hanging out on the trailer steps.
These two seemed to be best buds this weekend.

Rhett and his new friend, Tyson. They had fun sharing Rhett's cars.

Jeff Madsen, our friend and relative always brings his horses. Halley loves riding them. In this picture Jason is leading her but minutes later (after I took my camera back to the trailer) she rode all by herself. She would tell the horse when to go, stop, and turn. She was so proud and so was I. I remember when I was five years old and rode a horse all by myself for the first time just like Halley. How special.

Rhett, on the other hand, likes horses from a distance. You can see how he wanted his Dad to get him off as soon as he got on.

Feeling a little better now, but still a bit upset.

Wanna Be Like Dad

2011-06-03T16:07:00.000-07:00

Jason wears these safety glasses when he mows the lawn, trims the weeds or other yard work. Of course the kids are always watching their Dad. I thought it was so cute when Rhett put them on and said,"I a WORKER!"

NO POWER

2011-06-03T15:55:00.000-07:00

What do you do when the power is out?

Looks like we do a little reading.

A couple weeks ago the power was out for about 3 hours for some repairs that were being made .Actually it was kind of nice to be reminded of how much we rely on power and that we can survive with out it. We read books, played games, and ate sandwhiches. Not so bad!

Blowin' in the Wind

2011-05-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday as I watched Rhett play with the "beautiful flowers" in our yard, my first thought was don't get stains on your clothes(I'm terrible at getting stains out) and then I thought what the heck just go have fun. I couldn't help but remember when I used to do the same thing as a kid.

Oh to be a kid again.

He would walk around the yard trying to find just the right dandelion.

It is kind of hard to tell from the picture

but there are a lot to choose from in our yard.

Now for the fun part. Ready, set, BLOW!!

Gotta love those cheeks!

Camping here we come!

2011-05-22T20:44:00.000-07:00

We just bought a truck and camping trailer from Jason's Grandma Karen. We are all so excited to use it. The kids wanted me to cook dinner in the trailer the first night we had it in the driveway.

Back Scratch

2011-05-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

We know when Rhett is really sleepy because he wants to sit on someone's lap(usually Daddy's if he's available) and get a back scratch.

And the next thing we know. . .

Example At Any Age

2011-05-20T10:22:00.000-07:00

We have tried to teach Halley about dressing modestly. I think if we teach our children to prepare for the temple that part of that preparation should mean they don't have to change their wardrobe to wear garments when the time comes. At least that's how we feel on the subject.

On that note, Halley was playing in her room with a friend and they wanted to change into dresses to dance. From the other room I hear Halley telling her friend that the dress she had chosen wasn't modest(I'm guessing it needed a shirt under it). Her friend says, "I don't know what that means." Halley proceeds to tell her that if it doesn't cover your shoulders then it's not modest and if it does it is modest.

Maybe I push modesty too much with my 5 year old but today I was grateful for the example she set for her friend and that she wasn't afraid to do so.

9 years

2011-05-18T17:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our 9 year anniversary. I know it sounds like a lot but it certainly doesn't feel like it. Jason gave me a card that pretty much sums it all up.

-Maybe it's you. Maybe it's me. Maybe it's us. Whatever it is. . . It's all good!!-

I woke up in the morning not feeling well(no, I'm not pregnant).

So my sweet husband who had only had 3 hours of sleep got up and helped Ty get ready for school. Later that day he went to get me a milkshake because at our house when you don't feel good you get a milkshake. When he came home he not only had a milkshake but these beautiful flowers. He really is the best. I look so forward to spending MANY more years with my sweetheart.

Lucky Lady

2011-05-10T09:04:00.000-07:00

I had more of a Mother's weekend instead of day and it was all wonderful.

Saturday I got three beautiful flowers that my kids had planted for me at Kings.

Then in the afternoon Jason took me on a date. With his new work schedule I don't seem to have much alone time with him so going out just the two of us was really nice. Thanks to my in-laws for keeping the kids.

In sacrament meeting on Sunday the primary kids sang to their mothers. I'm in the primary presidency so I have been listening to them practice for a couple of weeks. Yes, the singing was so sweet but what really pulled my heart strings was when Ty looked over at me with the biggest proud smile. At that moment they were singing, "Mother I love you, Mother I do, Father in heaven has sent me to you." His smile made me feel like he really is glad that I am his mother. Thank you Ty for your smile.

Later in the day Ty and Rhett gave me a pedicure, a very nice one I might add. The best part, it was all Ty's idea. They even let me watch Little House on the Prairie while they did it.

My Mother's Day ended with a very sweet love note from Jason. Even after almost 9 years of marriage he still finds ways to surprise me.

One more thing. . .

Ty had wanted to make me breakfast in bed on Sunday but he didn't wake up until 9 o'clock so he missed his chance. So he decided he was going to do it on Monday instead. So Monday morning at 6 am I hear someone in the kitchen. Sure enough it was Ty and he had woke himself up and everything. He prepared me a lovley breakfast. . .toast, yogurt, a banana, string cheese, and a cup of juice. He had it all on a cookie sheet and as he went to put it on my lap he lost control. The cup of juice went everywhere, but how could I get upset. We hurried and cleaned the mess and then I enjoyed my delicious breakfast, prepared with love.

Thanks family for making me feel like one very Lucky Lady on Mother's Day and every day.

Cleaning Memories

2011-05-06T20:32:00.000-07:00

For a lot of our married life I have been Jason's grandparents cleaning lady. Each week we spend a day at their house cleaning and usually having lunch. This weekly event has given the kids and myself the chance to really get to know and love Erma and Leon. I love the relationship my kids have with them and their excitement to visit great grandpa. Last year Grandma Erma pasted away and that was hard for us because we had grown to love her so much. On occasion Halley will tell me how much she misses her. I'm grateful for the many memories my kids have made at their great-grandparents house and hope that many more are still to come.

These are just a few pictures of things we do at Grandpa Leon's. Most of the time I forget my camera and I end up kicking myself, so I started borrowing grandpa's once and awhile.

The yard swing is at favorite in warm weather.

Who doesn't love a ride on the John Deere?!

and

Someone always wants to help with the work

(Sorry I don't want to take the time to flip this one)

Grandpa likes to let the kids try food that he likes that

their mom probably doesn't feed them
-whole tomatoes with salt

-salsa cottage cheese chip dip

-red wine vinegarette on your Subway sandwhich

-spicy jerky

The list goes on and believe it or not they love it all.

Fun things to get into trouble with

Too tired to have any more fun

watching TV with Grandpa Leon

Trying to beat Grandpa at pool.

I'm pretty sure grandma is rolling over in her grave as Rhett

drives his car on her furniture. Don't worry I don't let

him play in the curtains.

Favorite Part of Spring

2011-05-05T19:13:00.000-07:00

Unusual

2011-05-05T13:32:00.000-07:00

The other day I had been doing something in the kitchen and when I was done I couldn't find Rhett. I asked Ty if he knew where he was. He didn't but was willing to help me keep looking. Believe it or not, Ty found Rhett fast asleep in his bed. This was a surprise to us because Rhett doesn't take many naps these days, and he certainly doesn't tuck himself in(at least not for naps). I couldn't resist a picture when I saw how he was holding his hands.

Blog Book

2011-05-04T20:18:00.000-07:00

If you haven't noticed I've been trying to keep up on my blog a little better this year. I'm seriously considering making my blog into a book at the end of the year. It will serve as the record of what our family did throughout the year. What this means to you as readers, sometimes you may not care about things I post, but it must be something I want in our collection of memories. Wish me luck in trying to keep up!!

Baseball Season

2011-05-01T19:43:00.000-07:00

This week Ty started practice for a traveling(competitive) baseball team. The first day he was so excited he had all his gear on(baseball pants, ball cap, cleats, and gloves) an hour before practice even started. That night he practiced hard and gave it his all, but it was pretty cold that night and by the end he was freezing. We took the poor boy home gave him a bath and he went right to bed. I knew he was exhausted because Ty never goes right to bed, he always finds something to prolong the process. It varies from reading books, a trip to the bathroom, needing a drink, or my favorite, some body part is hurting.

The next practice it was much warmer and I knew he had a blast because he couldn't stop talking about it when we got home. It looks like we have a lot of baseball in our future.
Ty is the one with the red sweatshirt on.

Surprise Visit

2011-05-01T19:08:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday we had a surprise visit from Uncle Mitch. Right now for work my brother is a truck driver. He drives all over to places like: California, Washington, Colorado, Utah, and Idaho. It is keeping him very busy so we never get to see him. We were excited when he called this week and said he was in town at one of the truck stops. We went and picked him up so he could come hang out at our house for a while. It was good to see him and hear about his latest adventures. I must say there is way more to trucking than I thought. Now that I know more it makes me appreciate truck drivers and all they deliver for us and don't forget the family time they sacrifice. I guess every job has its advantages and disadvantages. The kids thought Mitch's truck was way cool so we had to take a picture but Rhett was a little scared. Thanks for stopping by little brother, we look forward to next time.

Easter

2011-04-25T19:48:00.000-07:00

In Jason's family there are lots of get togethers, which involve food, extended family and fun. When we got married it took me awhile to get used it because I was used to just my family(parents & siblings) spending holidays together. This Easter there were several family functions to attend. I was starting to feel a little over whelmed and wishing for a little less "family" time.

Then in my selfish moment it hit me. . .we celebrate Easter because our Savior, Jesus Christ was resurrected so that we might live again. Why is that so important? What do I have in my life that is so great that I or all of us would want to live again? FAMILY

I realized that spending time on these specials day with our families, whether immediate or extended, is the best way we can show our love and gratitude to our Savior. I'm grateful for the things the spirit taught me this Easter and hope to remember them always.

P.S. This post might make it sound like I don't like Jason's family but that is the farthest thing from the truth. I honestly don't think there are better in-laws in the world. I thank the Lord daily for them.

So here are some moments from our Easter and for the record all the family functions were great. I didn't seem to get many pictures of them because sometimes you need to put the camera down and live a little.

We decorated our eggs this year at Grandma Carol's house on Saturday night.
Too bad we didn't get a picture of Uncle Mitch helping.

Easter morning

Ty showing off his electric toothbrush he's been wanting.

Halley had been wanting a pillow pet since Christmas.

She was so excited that the Easter Bunny brought her one.
Rhett smiling as he finds the flip flops he got. He had been wanting to
wear Halley's all the time so hopefully they'll both be happy now.Rhett showing off the bubble gum from his basket. Out of everything that is
what he loved the most. When our home teachers came that night
they asked each child what they got for Easter. Here are their responses

Ty-electric toothbrush

Halley-pillow pet

Rhett- bubble gum

Funny huh?!

Rhett trying to ride the bunny pillow pet.

Egg Hunt

Ty excited to find a dollar in one of the eggs.

Jason helping Rhett reach the eggs.

(Don't mind the "I just got out of bed look")

Decorating

2011-04-25T17:51:00.000-07:00

This last week the kids and I made Easter sugar cookies. They all helped with the whole process. . .
-measuring and pouring the ingredients for mixing
-rolling out dough
-cutting out bunnies with the cookie cutter
-frosting the cookies
-eating the end result
I didn't decide to get the camera out until we got to the frosting part but if you ask me that's the best part anyway. I don't usually like to let my kids make big messes when they help but this time I decided to let loose and live a little. I'm so glad I did. I put different colors of frosting into sandwhich bags and let them decorate the cookies how ever they wanted. They were so creative and did a great job. I think they had a lot of fun getting to do their own thing. I know I had fun watching them.

Halley hard at work

Ty adding the final touches

Don't these bunnies and eggs look yummy!

Finger lickin' good!!

School Play

2011-04-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

This year Ty decided he wanted to be in the school play. The play they did was Snow White.He was given the role as a FOX. In my opinion he was the cutest little fox ever. He got to go up on stage for two different scenes and sing,one of them was when they clean the house and sing "Whistle while we work." He did a great job walking around the stage pretending to clean. He had to go to practices for this play for several months. I was worried that he would get bored with it but he enjoyed it all the way to the end. He is already looking forward to next year's play. Jason and I are not sure where he gets his interest in the stage, but it's fun to watch him discover what he likes.

Sleepy Head

2011-04-19T20:16:00.000-07:00

All my kids love to read books in their beds before they fall asleep. Tonight it looks like Rhett was just too tired to finish his book.

Pretty Woman

2011-04-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist a little photo shoot when I saw Halley trying on Aunt Shayli's boots.

Invisible

2011-04-07T20:43:00.000-07:00

Rhett seems to think that if he lays under the piano bench no one can see him. It is the funniest thing ever!

Toothless

2011-04-07T20:34:00.000-07:00

Ty lost his sixth tooth tonight. At this point it doesn't seem like a big deal but I still remember how devastated I felt when he lost his first one. I guess it's because I feel sad that he's not my little boy anymore. But each age brings new fun experiences. I just hope I don't let them pass me by.

Strippling Warrior

2011-04-07T19:28:00.000-07:00

Ty had these little bumps on his arm and he kept getting more and more so I started to get a little worried, so I took him to the doctor. The doctor told us it is a virus and very contagious.Because it is so contagious he has to wear long sleeves all the time. The only way to get rid of them is to have each bump froze off. If you have ever had anything froze off you know it is pretty painful. Ty has about 12-15 of them so he has to go through a lot of pain and it takes more than one time of freezing to get them to go away. We are now on his 3rd or 4th visit and hoping for no more but you never can tell. This last week I took all three kids with me to Ty's appointment, which I don't think I've done before. As I'm holding Ty down on my lap, he screams, kicks, and cries as the doctor applies the treatment. All of a sudden Rhett bursts into tears, I think probably because Ty's behavior scared him but mostly because he felt bad for Ty. Of course Halley's motherly instinct kicks in and she goes over and calms him down. I was very grateful for her help. I'm so grateful for the love that our children have for each other(most of the time)! I am so proud of Ty for doing whatever it takes to beat this virus. He has been so strong and brave, I'm not sure I could do it. That's why I told him he is my Strippling Warrior!

Gross I know, but this is what it looks like after they've been froze.

Our boys sharing some of that Brotherly Love

Tea Party

2011-03-30T18:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a tea party(of course we didn't use tea) we used water. I've decided we need to have more of these parties because I don't think my kids have drank that much water in a long time. Those adorable cups must make it taste better. Usually when we have tea parties I let them have a little treat(cookies, graham crackers, etc)but all I had was my stash of girl scout cookies. To me these cookies are. . .delicious, expensive, mine, and few and far between. I couldn't believe it when Rhett took a little nibble and said, "These cookies not too good." I guess I won't have to worry about him eating my cookies.

It's ok for boys to have tea parties right?!
We had a nice afternoon together. It always feels good to spend quality time with my kids.

I'm in love

2011-03-26T09:18:00.000-07:00

I finally got a dishwasher just a little over a year ago. It did a good job for awhile and then I started having white filmy gross dishes. I was so disappointed and couldn't stand it so I started washing them by hand again. I did this for a month or two then got tired of it. Besides it is wrong to not use a dishwasher when you have one. I finally used a product that was recommended to me by Jason's grandpa. LEMISHINE and I am in love. I can't remember the last time my dishes were this clean. My family thinks I'm silly because I had them all come look at the dishes. Jason said I was like a kid at Christmas. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that lemishine always works this good and I recommend it to anyone.

A Lesson Learned

2011-03-26T09:00:00.001-07:00

DO NOT SAY YES WHEN THE KIRBY SALESMAN ASKS TO CLEAN YOUR CARPETS!!
Honestly I knew better but I really wanted my carpet cleaned and I thought it couldn't be that bad. I even asked if they were going to give me a big sales spill and they said no. They told me all I have to do is tell people what a great job they did. Well, they won't be getting that out of me.
Here is why. . .
The salesman PRESSURED me to buy big time(but they don't do that)!
The salesman was really friendly until I told him no way and then he wouldn't say a word to me.
It took 21/2 hours and that's only because I told them they had to leave so I could go get Ty.
They pretty much vaccumed the whole time and when they left only my hallway had been shampooed.
They did things they said they wouldn't and didn't do things they said they would.
I could go on but what a waste of an afternoon. I guess that's what I get for thinking I could get something for nothing.

How's your vocabulary?

2011-03-14T07:26:00.000-07:00

Jason is always asking Rhett this question? Sometimes the answer is good and other times the answer is growing, which are both true. A few examples...
-The other day we were driving along when from the back seat Rhett tells his Dad,"Pass that truck!"
-Rhett had been in a time out and I had come over to him to discuss the reason he was having it. Before I had a chance to say anything to him he says, "TALK! TALK!"
-At this very moment he is telling me to,"Get off that computer!"
I'm afraid I have a handful with this adorable 2 year old.

Things we've been doing. . .

2011-03-03T17:08:00.000-08:00

Getting an award for doing good in school

Aggies Gymnastics with Aunt Ashley on her birthday

Cooking

2011-03-03T16:14:00.000-08:00

Reading Stories

Honey Do List

Posing while Jason plays

with the new camera

Aggies Basketball Game

Happy Valentines Day to Me!

2011-02-14T12:59:00.000-08:00

Who could ask for anything more when I get to

spend Valentines with this bunch!

LOVE BOX

2011-02-14T09:44:00.000-08:00

For the first two weeks of this month we hung this "Love Box" on each persons bedroom door for a couple of days. It was neat to see the special things our kids came up with to show their love to each other. This was a really fun idea that I think would be fun to make a tradition but I can't take the credit for the idea. It was in this month's friend! One of Halley's favorite things to do is color so everyone got one of her masterpieces. On one that she colored for Jason she had me write, "I will read you a story!" If you've ever heard Halley "read" a story you know that it is a special treat. Rhett is still a little young to participate but with the help of Mom he added some cute valentine cards, but all you ever need from Rhett is a big smile and the twinkle in his dark brown eyes to brighter your day. Ty is very thoughtful when it comes to giving gifts.. He really trys to give things that he knows are special to others. The Love Box was on Jason's door the first day and Ty came up and whispered in my ear,"I'm going to write Dad a note and tell him I'll take him to a USU Aggies basketball game." Those two have been talking about going to a game for some time now and just have not done it yet, so when I told Jason about the Love Box idea he said he wanted to put tickets in Ty's box. So you can imagine how cute and funny I thought it was when Ty had the same idea and was going to beat his Dad to it. I wanted to show you what the letter he wrote to Jason looked like. Ty is doing really well in school but remember he is only in first grade so his skills are limited.

Ha dad wa don't me and yoy go out to a utae stat baskitball

Feb. 5 at 7:00

Happ Vlntin dad i love you

Not all correct but straight from my 7 year olds heart.

I could go on about other fun things like bowling, swimming, and ice cream but I think you get the idea. This was a lot of fun but has gotten to be a little pricey maybe next time we'll just do homemade items?!

Go Packers!

2011-02-01T13:46:00.000-08:00

The boys in my house are huge Green Bay Packers fans, so I when I found this background I thought they'd enjoy it. Stay tuned for something new in its place after the super bowl.

Cabin Fever

2011-02-01T13:02:00.001-08:00

I don't know about anybody else but we are ready for spring at our house. The other day it was sunny and pretty warm so I let the kids get their bikes out. They had so much fun and it was nice to let them get some exercise outside. Ever since then all I hear from Rhett is "Ride bikes?". If I tell him no he says,"Ask my dad", it's amazing how they learn that trick so young.

Wishing they could go outside for a picnic. . .

they make do in the kitchen!

Tissue Please

2011-02-01T12:49:00.000-08:00

Rhett gets a bloody nose SO easy and being a rowdy boy means he gets a lot of them. He is so used to having one that when he just has a runny nose he runs up to us and says, blood! If he decides to be a wrestler someday it is going to be one big mess!Look how handsome he is even with a tissue shoved up his nose. Poor kid

Christmas in Wyoming

2011-01-01T10:36:00.000-08:00

It's hard to tell in this picture but the van was SO FULL with presents, suitcases and such if you opened the door something would fall out. The kids even had to hold our pillows on their laps.

The kids we so excited to play in the Star Valley snow(who am I kidding I was too)! Uncle Nick had prepared some very nice sleding hills for us.

Rhett just relaxing with his Dad.

Making sugar cookies for Santa

Edwards Men

We sometimes tease my Dad about video taping but it is always

fun to watch it later. Thanks Dad

I think that look on Ty's face is...Awesome I got a DS!

She always wants to use her Dad's mini hymn book to practice

her singing now she has her own!

Halley playing with her new barbie house

Rhett loving his new Toy Story 3 movie from Grandma & Grandpa

Rhett playing with his Mickey Mouse train.
He is totally into Mickey Mouse right now.

It took a bit of preparation to take our Christmas to Star Valley but it was a good time.

Thanks Edwards family for making the effort to be there.

Party Time

2010-12-20T05:49:00.000-08:00

Halley's birthday isn't for about another week but when our kids turn 5 we let them have a party with friends. With Christmas and Jason's work schedule we had her party a little early. As you can see it was a Strawberry Shortcake theme.

Halley trying to hit her princess crown pinata

So may fun presents to open

Girls everywhere

From what I could tell she had a good time. We don't do much of inviting friends over so it was neat to see how they all played together. Maybe we'll have to do it more often(for Halley's sake).

Tis' the Season

2010-12-20T05:40:00.000-08:00

Afterwards Halley asked,"Mom is Santa just a man dressed up?"

Special Song

2010-12-13T19:33:00.000-08:00

I heard a song on the radio yesterday that isn't new but its new to me. I loved it and it definitely applies to me(and I'm sure many others). It is called "Make Enough of Me" by Julie de Azevedo. Just click on the link to see the music video. I know it will touch you as it did me. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqqQePPg6Sw

Cozy Jammies

2010-11-30T11:32:00.000-08:00

The kids got pajamas from their grandparents for Thanksgiving. I had them pose in front of the tree hoping to get a cute picture. Cute huh?!

Our Thanksgiving

2010-11-30T11:16:00.000-08:00

We went to Idaho to spend Thanksgiving with Jason's brother and his family. His wife was pregnant and couldn't leave home(notice I said was. .Halley now has a girl cousin)! We stayed in a hotel and got to swim in the pool. It is always a treat for the kids to get to stay at a hotel and they love the pool.

This is Rhett patiently waiting for dinner to be ready.

Grandpa Kraig with all his grand kids on his lap.

All in all we had a good time eating, visiting family, teasing one another(always a must in the Anderson family), and being grateful for what we have!

While I Wasn't Watching

2010-11-09T08:27:00.000-08:00

How do you think Rhett looks in my makeup?!

Prayer of a Child

2010-10-31T08:39:00.001-07:00

Earlier this week Halley wasn't feeling well. She had a bad belly ache and had thrown up several times one evening. As we went to bed that night I was expecting to be up a lot in the night. In the morning I woke up surprised that Halley had slept all night long. At breakfast she told me that the night before in her bed she had prayed to Heavenly Father to help her belly. She looked at me with a smile and said, I wasn't sick in the night and I am feeling better, Heavenly Father answered my prayer. I am so grateful for her faith and example. I am so grateful to Heavenly Father for answering her prayer. I know it is moments like these that help Halley's testimony grow(and mine).

Costumes

2010-10-31T08:33:00.000-07:00