Treasured Moments

Almost Summer

2011-08-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

I put the pics in backwards so if you are wanting to read this read from bottom to top.

Once the weather got hot it was a perfect time to take the kids to the Museum. They had so much fun and I really enjoyed spending the whole day with them.

I did a mini cooking class with some girls in the neighborhood, and Jackson! They loved it and so did I.

My Presley girl

with her new Baby Gaga from her B-day. Such a good mommy she is, buckling up her baby!

Right after her haircut that she loved and would tell anyone that listened about.

Memorial day swim party

We headed up to the cabin for Memorial Day

I love this pic it looks like Pres is about to back hand Hudson, rest assured that is not what was happening.

Aunt Suz had a little nail painting party. That made Presley's night!

Grandma C made a couple of cookie monsters for cabin.

Cookie Monster time is Crazy Time! There were 2 pans 20 spoons and a bunch of Very Hungry and wild Cummards! It took about 5 min for the plates to be spotless once again.

Hudson loves his cabin clothes, he gets so excited every time he picks something out of his drawer. They are all hand-me-downs, mostly from the cousins. He always asks " You got this for me! Thank you so much!" I absolutely love it.

He also loves to wear jackets that have hoodies, regardless the weather.

Popsicle party on the last day of school! Please excuse my super Ghetto sign. After Suzy saw it she insisted we make a summertime banner for our craft. Next year will be way cuter!

Jackson & Mrs. Nichols

The kids found some old stickers from Stephen's sticker book and had some fun with them.

Presley decided to get paint her hand, amazingly no nail polish got on anything but her! Close one.

We taught Jackson how to play Monopoly and he became Obsessed! He would ask to play everyday when he got home from school. I really wish Monopoly wasn't a Never ending game! One night we stayed up playing till past 10 till I finally made the boys stop!

We sure are going to miss Play Group in the summer.

This may or may not have been a bribe!

Hudson & J helped me put together this cute little flower pot for their teachers for the end of the year.

Huddy with Mrs. Sicely & Mrs. Heidi. We are going to miss these great ladies. Hudson loved going to class and always talks about how great his teachers are.

We helped out the Davy's at the Irving Snow Cone day, Pres sure enjoyed it. Who wouldn't love 2 snow cones at once.

Presley has been teaching herself gymnastics, I try to help but she will not let me. She has already gotten a gorgeous cartwheel and her handstand is almost there!

Hudson and his cousins graduated from Grandma C's preschool. Casey was in town and even though he didn't actually attend he was able to graduate with the rest of them.

Hudson and Casey could't stop playing with each other, they are the best of friends and whenever they get together they have the best time.

Jackson got his first All Star Award of the Year! He was so excited about it and for us to come and see him. He got a Math Masters Award, and a Service award for help in the Cafeteria! Way to go buddy.

Catch up!

2011-05-11T10:29:00.000-07:00

How come I am always playing catch-up! Ugh I am such a procrastinator when it comes to blogs. So here are some pictures and things I wanted to remember.

My kids finally got some pillow pets ( after they found them hidden at the top of the closet!)

They then of course made them weapons!

Presley got potty trained a month ago and I am soooo happy about it.

It took her about a day to master it. She had about 1 pee accident- but never any poop one so Yea!

For the first 2 days every time she went she would make me read her this potty book & then she would read it.

Ward Easter Egg Hunt

since I was gone on Easter I was so glad I was able to go to this Easter egg hunt.

The kids loved it and didn't even mind having to give back the eggs, probably since they got to keep the candy inside!

I missed getting pics of Jackson since Presley started saying she didn't feel good, then layed down in the grass and then threw up. :( so sad

Hudson is usually my best dresser. He always picks out matching outfits and will also accessorize. But for some reason he thought this outfit would cut it at church.

My SIL Heather made this- how cute, she actually grew grass and then made the basket out of fabric. Man sometimes I feel sooo uncrafty! Luckily I have so many people in my life who are so good at it.

The only picture Stephen took on Easter-

I am just happy they actually got their basket, wore their Easter clothes and made it to church!

Sadly Stephen did forget to hide the eggs before the kids woke up- so Jackson didn't understand why the bunny didn't do it. uh-oh

Mother's Day

My favorite part of Mother's Day by far is the homemade gifts that my kids make at school. I love the questionares's they fill out, so honest and crazy.

This year was not exception.

I was obviously gone on a trip when Hudson filled this out

Jackson's class made cookbooks- I think J's was the best one. You could actually follow the directions and come out with a dang good sandwich! I guess his ambition to be a Chef might pan out after all.

btw- He loves pepperonis on anything

Our Spring Break in Thatcher

2011-04-12T07:32:00.000-07:00

Stephen's job has him traveling a lot during this season. Since Jackson is in school we never have the opportunity to go with him. When I found out he was going to be in Thatcher during part of Spring Break I immediately decided we too would be going. Plus it is basically a free trip since he was going for business anyway. The kids were Super excited about staying in a hotel and couldn't wait to go swimming. So I set out to find a hotel with a heated pool. I found one but once we got there we realized the hot tub was out of commission and that heated just means "not freezing" but the kids didn't care they swam anyway!

If you know me you already know my deep love of the Gila Valley Area/Thatcher/EAC! While I couldn't wait to visit the sites and go walk my old campus, I was most excited to see my good friends MaryAnn Palmer Layton who I met while attending school. She now lives there again with her husband and 4 kids who are so awesome!

Our drive up

I thought a ding-dong would be nice

but apparently not a great car snack

this was way worse than it looks-we had to stop and shake him down

The Hotel-

By far my kids favorite part of the trip, apparently we could go anywhere and stay in our hotel the whole time and they would be ecstatic.

Jumping from bed to bed

I just love her faces in these

Jackson wasn't feeling it at this time, instead he was getting mad that everyone was jumping on top of him

Hudson wanted to have his picture taken by himself

One morning we took a drive up Mt. Graham and found a place to hang out for awhile.

The kids had a blast climbing rocks

getting in the stream

( Pres insisted on getting completely undressed- which lasted about 5 min.)

finding Rocks

But the favorite was the splash game.

Throwing rocks into the stream to see how much you could splash everyone.

Pres chillaxing with her apple

Don't judge my parenting

if you look closely you can see the beautiful butterfly that kept circling Presley's head

Another great hotel pro was the key card doors

The boy were constantly racing there to open the door with the card!

While Steve was working we spent our time with the Layton family. They were so much fun, they fed us, entertained us & transported us.

Here we are at the Palmer farm

my kids love petting the animals and feeding the horses

The golf cart ride

Wii dance was the favorite

I have never seen my kids play it and had so much fun watching them

Jackson insisted I "Verse" him ( too cute)

I did and man that game is tiring

Pres with the girls playing

My dear friend MaryAnn

We had such a great time and I hope we can come back again!

On the way home I found a hole in my purse

Can you believe all the stuff that was in there. No wonder it was so heavy.

I was so excited I am notorious for loosing chapstick and when I saw that they have all dissapeared in my purse I was ecstatic.

March Madness

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

Hudson is the prime candidate for Hand me downs- he is constantly getting them, either from jackson or conway. To say he loves hand me downs would be an understatement. He is completely beside himself, he immediately puts the new stuff on and can't stop talking about it. Well the other day by mistake Hudson received these roller blades from Cons. The next day and a half wasn't pretty. He would NOT take them off- so much so that he was getting in trouble. He was falling down every second ( though nothing phased him he got right back up) running into people and things (OW!). He even tried to wear them to school and when I said no he tried to take them in his backpack. Needless to say when we realized his receiving them was by mistake I was MORE than happy to give them back. But at the end of that 36 hrs. he had improved a ton and they did make him sooo happy. Another time!

Kids Night Out this month was March Madness themed so the kids got to dress up in b-ball gear! They loved it and are way too cute.

I came home one night when Hayley had been babysitting, and I went to check on Pres but couldn't find her. I asked Hayley and she said she is in her room so I checked one more time and found her in-between the wall and her bed.

Pres and I in our matching outfits!

I am not a crafty person but lately I have been trying a lot more-meaning looking up ideas and tutorials and trying to copy as best I can.

I have been needing another hairbow holder for Pres and saw a cute one online so decided to go for it.

I found a $.50 frame at a garage sale.

painted it up nice and white

then distressed it

added ribbon to the inside with hot glue

layed down my material, batting and backing

taped it up with duct tape

and there you go, all nice and pretty for Pres!

Stuff

2011-03-31T07:10:00.000-07:00

One of my new favorite things to do is Carporting/Garage Saleing. Every friday my mom and I go out while Hudson is at Preschool. One morning it seemed like every house we hit was a jackpot! I had already been worrying about having to get new shoes for J- since I had just thrown out his last pair that had multiple holes. He wears his shoes out pretty good. So when I saw brand new in the box Heely's I was ecstatic she took $12 for them and they were about 1 size too big so perfect to grow into. Plus they are tough as nails and are perfect for J.

When he got home from school I showed them to him and he was crazy excited! I never knew he was so into Heely's, he wanted to try them immediately.

Not as easy as he thought

getting a little better

when dad got home he got his Heely's out to show J how to do it! Yes my husband has Heely's, that he has used like twice. They are now his new favorite pair of shoes, he went around for a week telling everyone about them. They are a little big but he still insists on wearing them.

Stephen brought home a truck load of paper to burn from his office. I recruited the kids in the neighborhood to help sort the file folders out ( so there was less to burn ). I have realized that kids will do just about anything for the promise of Ice Cream.

It took a good 1-2 hours each day, but they did awesome. The funniest was their obsession with the paper clips- they started collecting and then fighting over them, but all worked out in the end.

Worth it right?

V-day

2011-03-24T08:24:00.000-07:00

We had a pretty Amazing V-day!

Stuffed French Toast for breakfast. Then we all got in our Valentine's Best, even J picked out a red shirt without me telling him to.

For Hudson's Valentines we decided to do the Marhmallow Pops we saw here, that we did last week for play group treat. The kids helped make them and they were super easy, fun, and yummy.

Poor Pres didn't get any Valentines so her sweet brother gave her one and shared his Whole lot with her.

Jackson got out of his clothes too fast ( too hot yesterday)

but this is what he made for his class, yes he did help make it. We saw it here and had to do it.

Now I was planning on the neat dinner idea for V-day dinner with the kids that I posted about last week. But then my SIL Heather called inviting us to dinner. Frankly I hardly ever say no to a dinner invite ( for multiple reasons), so since I hadn't even bought the food yet I said yes.

Good thing I did because the meal was incredible. I have been craving a burger for like forever!

With her homemade buns this one was worth the wait.

After dinner the kids finally got their prizes, went to bed happy and sleeping with their balloons.

I hope you all had a Wonderful Valentine's Day.

Cutenes

2011-03-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

When Till's monster comes over to play it is ALWAYS dress up time. She Always puts on the cheerleader costume and encourages the others to follow suit- this time it was not just clothes. I found them in the bathroom putting on every hair bow they could find!

Yes my daughter is 2 1/2 and this was her first time getting her hair curled. She loved it though I did have to bribe her with fruit snacks half way through.

She also had a nasty cold sore for a couple weeks. Sad

My fav. thing about this pic is her head, she loves to cock her head to the side and smile oh so sweetly, I have no idea where she gets it from. ( maybe Uncle La La)

Hudson turns 4

2011-03-03T06:12:00.000-08:00

For Hudson's birthday this year he picked to go bowling ( since it is the off year on parties). Usually it is just the birthday kid and mom and dad but since Casey was in town and he is never in town for his b-day we decided to let Hudson bring his very best friend too. When these too boys get together it is so sweet Hudson is always running up to Casey saying " I love Casey" giving hugs and spending the rest of the time playing and hugging.

Hudson had so much fun and was pretty good for a 4yr. old.

the morning of his birthday he of course ( like the rest of my family) chose cereal for his breakfast.

then Grandma Cheryl came over to give him the presents he had picked out on their shopping trip. All he wanted this year was Transformer stuff.

Singing Happy Birthday to the 2 special people

and of course getting measured

Hudson has grown so much this year, he started preschool which he loves. I have had the opportunity to help at his class and I love watching him and how sweet he is and how much he participates and knows. He has also started Primary and since I am now a primary teacher I get to see him in sharing time. He is sooo cute always sitting like a good little boy and every time he gets to help he has the biggest smile.

Hudson is always so loving and accepting of others, he loves animals, riding his bike and playing with his friends. He is also really into me having a baby, he likes to tell people we are having one ( so if he tells you this it is false!) For awhile after he turned 4 he refused to say he is was 4 and only wanted to be 5- that is what he would say when you asked him and if you said no you are 4 he would have a bit of a meltdown. He has a bit of an obsession with the number 5 ever since he saw and fell in love with the movie Speed Racer. Everything revolves around that number he was 5 then he turned 5, when he is older he will be 5, mom and dad are 5, when he plays a game he must roll 5! It can get pretty crazy. But luckily he is now accepting that he is 4, though he still loves the number 5.

Hudson's Interview

how old are you? 5

how old will you be when you grow up? 5

who is the funniest person in your family? me, you

what is your favorite food? uncrustables

fav. color? orange

fav. animal? night fury dragon

when you are sick who takes care of you? mom

who is your best friend? mom, pres, dad, & j

fav. toy? night fury toy

what are you really good at? school

what do you want to be when you grow up? grown up and walk

how much do you weigh? better

what is special about you? mom

fav. place to go? Casey's

best thing about school? toys and show and tell

fav. sport? bowling & b-ball

what color are your eyes? green

how many teeth do you have? 5

how old is mom? 5 dad? 5

fav. movie? night fury

fav. shape? heart

fav. treat? graham crackers

what do you like? work

how many bros. & sis.'s do you want? 5

fav. song? scripture power

New Years Eve

2011-02-17T06:18:00.000-08:00

Well this New Year's wasn't quite as fun as it usually was, mainly because it was sooooo stinking cold outside. I went out to take a few pictures and that was all I could stand. I was also super tired. But I think the kids still had fun as they usually do, there is almost nothing that can keep them from playing with their cousins!

Christmas Day

2011-02-08T06:06:00.000-08:00

trying to get a peek at the presents, don't worry I blocked them.

and they're off

not quite sure about this.

One of the fav.s is always the money that Santa leaves.

What Top Gun

This was definitely my favorite Christmas so far. Even the tiny budget we had we still managed to make all the kids happy. Jackson even said to me after "Mom I know Santa is real, because there is no way you would have been able to afford all that stuff." Thanks Kohls and Black Friday for making me look awesome. Of course once again Stephen bought me the perfect gifts with no money, at least this time I had something equally as good.

That morning we were able to relax at home while the kids went around looking at their friends toys and playing with theirs. This is the first Christmas since we have been married that we were able to just stay at home and it was soooo nice.

After that we headed over to my moms for some more family fun.

This is what entertains the boys every time we are at my moms. Yes throwing a ball into a kids basket.

The Whole Fam Dam

Christmas EVE

2011-02-01T15:00:00.000-08:00

We started off this Christmas on the 23rd-Christmas Eve Eve. Which was so nice since this year we were able to be with all of our family without having to leave early or come late. Except that my dads family was out of town this year so we really missed them.

We had a blast at my dads, everyone was able to make it.

Christmas EVE at the Cummards

It was such a great night, the food was excellent as always.

The kids had a great time doing the nativity- Presley's first year
Hudson chose to be the cow! He loved it
This is J's second year being Joseph- he loves playing this party. I have no idea why, thought it might have to do with loving the spotlight ( like his mom)

J is just a bit of a ham

I love this picture because it is so exactly what happens every time the Cummards get together, in Any type of setting.

Davy and his "advice"

Presley decided to just love on Grandma Brenda all night

The Jon's had us this year

they really "GET" us

Money pants and Cereal- Stephen to a T

they also got me some "goodies" but I think I will be keeping those to myself

our Special visitor

after dinner dessert-sadly I made the dessert that night, but it didn't keep him from eating some of that too.

when we got home the kids got to open up their Christmas Eve pj's

It was one of those great nights, everything went so nicely and memories were made.

December

2011-01-13T07:08:00.000-08:00

Our ward Christmas party-

The kids put on a program- hudson was so excited to participate

Then everyone got to go see Santa

Steve and I had a work party on the same night as Cummard Progressive dinner, so we did our house and then everyone else took our kids. This kids had a blast and I am sad I missed it.

They did a hayride to each house this year- the kids thought it was awesome

Gingerbread Night

2011-01-07T13:16:00.000-08:00

I love how every year my children's creativity grows.

They start out eating the the frosting and candy, gradually every year they care more about how their house looks and not just how it tastes.

Hudson spent quite a long time without any help making his just right

This year Jackson and a few other decided to make little doors in their house to stash extra candy! Funny thing is the next day they never even want any. Course that night they are stuffing their faces with it.

they wanted to take pictures of them eating their houses

Our month so far

2010-12-14T06:34:00.000-08:00

Every year my kids favorite thing to do in the month of December is our Advent Calendar. For the first year I mainly put candy in the boxes and a couple of things to do that month. But they loved the activities so much that now that is what we do. Every day has a different "activity" that is related to the season. Here are some of the first things we did.

Ornaments:

the kids get to paint an ornament every year, they love this and always look for theirs the next year.

Temple Lights

Christmas Countdown

years past we have had one chain, which didn't seem to go over very well. So this year each kid got their own. They love pulling one off every night.

Letters to Santa

( the day after this I found the cutest templates for a Santa letter, I'll have to wait till next year.)

We have had so many great times so far and have so many more to look forward to. I think the reason I love Christmas so much is all the stuff leading up to it. There is so much family time, fun activities, talk of our savior. happiness, sweet music, yummy food and oh so much more.

Thanksgiving

2010-12-10T06:40:00.000-08:00

It was my families on year this year, so we headed up to Tonto Basin to get together with the whole fam. ( well almost the whole fam. It was great weather and the kids had a blast playing in the tree, playing catch and most of all shooting guns. We don't come from a family that shoots but my grandma's husband's family is into it so they showed us the ropes. Steve did great but the rest of us struck out. We still had fun anyway.

This is basically how it is every time Stephen has food, the kids like birds huddled around him with their mouths open.

My gorgeous Grandma

Jackson going back for multiple helpings of pie.

Climbing in the Awesome Mulberry tree

My most precious blessings.

Kicking it in the back of the car

What a natural!

I have so many things to be Thankful for, I am truly blessed.

My Heavenly Father who loves me

My Savior Jesus Christ

My Husband

My children

The restored Gospel

The Scriptures

My family

My friends

My home

My job

My car

and about a million more.

This Thanksgiving was one of many reminders of my blessings, and I am so Thankful for that.

Lobster Fest 2010

2010-12-09T07:11:00.000-08:00

About 6 yrs. ago my brother and sister in law started a Thanksgiving Eve Lobster Fest tradition. Oh yeah it is as good as it sounds. Unfortunately some of my sil's don't feel the same way about Lobster as the rest of us do, so they have to make do on the sides. This year I would have to say I actually ate more sides than lobster, they were really good!

This is Jackson's favorite meal of the whole year. He is a true seafood lover, with the most expensive taste.

What who is that back for 3 rds of the bomb diggity salad. Yup thats me and my Thanksgiving belly!

Thanks again D & S Cummard for a superior dinner see you back in 2012!

Turkey Turkey

2010-12-08T11:20:00.000-08:00

My MIL made these last year for all the kids, so this year we decided to do them for the boys classes. They had a blast putting them together and were sooo excited to give them to their friends at school.

Veterans Day

2010-12-02T07:25:00.000-08:00

The Cummards are famous for their Traditions! One that is super fun for the Kids, is the annual Veteran's Day parade which the MW LeBaron Family is always in. We have been doing it since J was a baby and I think they seem to enjoy it more every year. Hudson learned how to ride a bike without training wheels the week before and was soooo excited to ride his bike in the parade. There was a little fiasco with the bike before but as soon as the parade started he hopped on a bike and rode it the whole way. While he did great riding he did always end up one float ahead ( just to excited to slow down). As soon as J got there he was off riding with the cousins of course. and Pres was in heaven riding her scooter for the hour and half before it started. Then riding almost the whole way through the 1/4 mile parade route! That extra 5 min. onto the other 2 hours was just too much.

This is the first pic we took with Hudson when he didn't have his bike- he was not happy

Patriotic Gals

He's Happy Now- guess who got a bike to ride?

J followed big P throughout the whole parade

Pres rode right next to the spectators the whole time. I think she thought they were all there for her! She loved it.

Hudson

Hud never took off that hat in 2 hours and when he finally did this is what was under there.

Virginia Beach

2010-12-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

My mom and I took a girls trip over to Virginia Beach this past weekend to visit my oldest friend Jill Tyler and her fam. It was such an fun trip, we spent the first day at Colonial Williamsburg enjoying the crisp fall weather, shopping and of course amazing food.

Jill told us about this place that has AMAZING Hot Cocoa, and she was right it was Amazing even the homemade marshmallow inside was to die for.

Here is Jill dipping it into her Hot Chocolate ( or what we like to call the cup of melted chocolate)!

While this is one of the most extraordinary cups of Cocoa I have ever had, you must not drink one all by yourself after about the 8th sip or so it's overwhelming richness makes you want to chuck it! I know it sounds weird but both Jill and I had the exact same reaction and couldn't even make it through a 1/3 of the cup. Anyways if you do happen to make it out to Williamsburg hit up this place and see for yourself.

The Blue Talon

We had so much fun shopping at all the cutest shops. We practically made camp in Williams Sonoma to keep trying their free samples of Cider and Pumpkin Bread. Truly the BEST!!!!

Both Jill and I have both been wanting to try these delicious looking Apple Pie Caramel Apples off The Girl Who Ate Everything .

We both aren't the best "candy makers" but we gave it a try.

Jill doing her special "tap" technique to get the excess caramel off.

"I am so proud of Me!"

We ran out of sticks so the knife made do.

Mixing up the white chocolate

adding the cinnamon sugar

Ours didn't turn out quite as perfect as hers, but oh freaking my they were MMMMMM Good!

I don't know exactly how many we ate, lets just say the kids didn't get much.

Will I make these again, Yes indeedy!

While we were there the Tyler's took us to the famous Wood Chicks BBQ, who won the Throwdown with Bobby Flay for their pork sandwich and is also on Pit Masters.

Well BBQ Pork sandwiches are one of my many food weakness and I couldn't wait to try it

I apologize that I ate it too fast and was unable to take a picture. But I will tell you it Rocked! So if you have a chance please stop in to Wood Chicks.

Thanks for a GREAT time Tyler's you fed us well!

Steve's 33rd B-day

2010-11-29T07:18:00.000-08:00

The Man of the Day

Sadly after the initial decor pics I forgot to take any pics of the attendees and the Birthday boy.

As you can probably guess it was a Cereal Party. Why? You ask. Well Steve loves cereal more than anyone I have ever met. It is truly his favorite food, he even put it on our wedding registry! Yes it is hard for someone who loves making new kinds of food and is such a breakfast person to be married to a man like this. Yet I have learned to deal with it, even when he eats a small portion of the food I make and then gets a bowl of cereal to follow it up. Or when he has cereal as an appetizer before we go out for dinner.

He has also passed this trait onto ALL of our children, without fail they will ALWAYS choose cereal for breakfast. So I have to limit it to twice a week for the kids.

If we don't have at least 15 ( not exaggerating) boxes of cereal in the pantry, he gets antsy and goes to the store to stock up. I mean I don't really even like cereal and this is how I have to live, but hey it does have it's upsides. It makes for a cheap and easy meal when I don't feel like cooking! I just hope I nothing ever happens to me because my children will be raised completely on cereal.

I love this man

he is such a hard worker and can do anything.

he never gossips and is always keeping me in check

he never takes offense and always thinks the best of people

he is so giving- no matter how much he has he will give you whatever you need

he is always helping out people and giving of his time

his children love him and he would do anything for them

he is always Right!

he's funny, handsome and easy to please

he is the BEST gift giver

he wants to learn to play the piano

he loves to go shopping at Ross & Marshall's

he loves to go to the grocery store- even on his bike!

he LOVES milk- whole milk/goats milk

he is always cold

loves beanies -especially the ones he made

he loves free shirts and will always wear them instead of his nice bought ones

he won't buy anything over $10 and always finds the best deals

he is super loyal to his friends

loves almost all foods and will try anything at least once

he loves to buy stuff

he loves golfing & basketball

he loves the Chargers

he loves reading US weekly and watching TMZ

he loves concrete

there are a million more things I could say but I will end with Happy Birthday and I love You!

Halloween Time

2010-11-18T06:27:00.000-08:00

Like I said busy month, here are some over the Halloween activities we did. Sadly I didn't get any pics from our amazing fall festival. Maybe since I never even saw the kids- they spent the whole night in the bouncy houses or on the tractor trailer thingy.

For our first Halloween party I didn't have all their costumes so I just dressed them up in whatever we could find around the house. Hudson ended up loving his so much that he decided that is what he wanted to be for Halloween.

Aunt Suzy is starting an annual Halloween party for the kids, it was a blast. Of course there were crafts, yummy treats and games galore.

This table was for popcorn hands but Pres saw an opportunity she could not pass up!
Jackson and his cupcake from the cupcake walk.
Hudson won Most Fun Costume- since every kid was trying to "ride" him

Hudson on his way to his preschool party, his teachers said he would not take off the jacket or hat the whole time. By the time I got there he was drenched in sweat. That is Hudson for ya.

Miss Dora, Pres LOVED her costume she was so excited about it.
On Halloween the neighbors get together and Gary makes hot dogs and I make my White Chili, we hang out until it is time to Trick or Treat. Since Halloween fell on Sunday this year we were going to go on sat. night thinking all the members would be doing it that night. Well after dinner Uncle Dave took the boys and the rest of the cousins over to Grandma Cheryl's for Shelle's carnival and Grandmas store. So it was just me and Pres, she kept begging to go Trick or Treating so we headed off, we walked down our whole street and only one house was out giving candy, it was dead. I was going to just go back but Pres was begging me to Trick or Treat still, I had heard that a ward was doing a Trunk or Treat at the church building so we walked down there. It took her all of 10 min. to fill up her basket.

We went back home and there were still no trick or treaters so we headed over to the carnival and Grandma C's. The boys had never gone Trick or Treating since they were there all night so on the way home we hit up another Trunk or Treat.
See all this candy well about 1/10 of it has been eaten, almost all of it was donated to the troops and the kids have still not finished what I let them keep. But hey it's the fun of getting free candy right? Also the comparing and trading!

The next night when all the trick or treaters came around Hudson sat outside for hours passing out candy. He would run to everyone even close to the house and start putting candy in their bags, curbside service! He was so excited doing it, I think he enjoyed it more than trick or treating. He wouldn't come in until all the candy was gone!

October

2010-11-16T12:14:00.000-08:00

We have had a super busy month, birthdays, Virginia, Steve's b-day, Halloween, Anniversary,Boy cousins sleepover, primary program, General conference, pumpkin carving, work, work, school and party's up the yang!

With all the craziness that goes with being a mom, watching sweet moments such as these make it all worth while.

reading to BB

then he wanted to lay down with BB

next Pres read to BB

then Hudson and his new BFF Buddy Bear watching a movie.

Hudson was able to bring home Buddy Bear from school. He has been asking to do it for a couple of weeks now and when he got out of the car holding him, well I have never seen him so happy! He screamed " I got Buddy Bear" The next 2 days was Hudson and Buddy Bear, and Pres trying to squeeze in on the action.

My eldest turns 7!

2010-11-05T08:01:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I can't believe I have a 7 yr. old. It has gone by way too fast. Jackson is such a sweet kid who loves his friend and is always up for anything. He will try any type of food and is the best masseuse! He is boy through and through, he is always wanting to wrestle and sword fight. He is becoming such a great little reader and will read for his brother and sister. He is so responsible with his new dog and never complains when he has to feed or pick up the poop! He loves to draw and is so creative, I love seeing the things he draws. We love Jackson and couldn't imagine life without him.

Morning present time

For his birthday J wanted a motor scooter so we went in on half with him and he paid the rest.

I think he likes it!
This year for his birthday he said he wanted to do a Vehicle party, I had no idea what that meant, but we came up with an idea. We decide to invite everyone to bring their favorite "vehicle" and we were going to Freestone skate park. Well I guess we should have checked up on the rules because half way through the party all the bikes and scooters got kicked off. The kids still had a blast either way.

We had a couple of spills, and of course no party of J's would be complete without a little meltdown.( he was mad we didn't bring his motor scooter)

Dallin, Conway, Hudson, Parker, Jackson, Cooper and Hunter

Jackson getting cash- this boy is a saver and LOVES cash!
J also got a bakugan pack which Hudson thought was his and was so excited!

His vehicle cake
Decorating a pumpkin.

Atlantis '10

2010-11-02T08:37:00.000-07:00

In September our family was able to go to the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas. My mom, dad, Colin, Heather and all our kids. The weather was Gorgeous, it rained a little every day which made it so cool during the day. The beach was perfect with warm water and hardly anyone around. The kids had so much fun on all the slides, Jackson was able to do all of the slides this year and was really into it. He was more of a dare devil than I was for sure. Playing in the pool was the little ones favorite part, they have an amazing kids pool where we spent most days.

We definitely ate great, we deemed the Miami Vice as the drink of the trip and had at least one a day. We ate at some great restaurants where I was always ordering the conch fritters- my new fav.

the 4 plane rides we took there and back weren't too bad, especially the times we spent in first class. Course I am thinking maybe just the adults next time.

Playing tricks on a certain sleeping grandpa

Hudson wasn't really into the ocean, but J couldn't stay away

A pretty big wave took out my dad

In which he lost his hat and glasses! Luckily we found them both

Jackson loving every minute of it

My eldest son is absolutely obsessed with Lobster, no we did not get him one. Though the whole trip he kept trying to order one. He is a little food spoiled. We are trying to work on that ( after a few meltdowns on the trip)

My birthday Dessert! for some reason we keep going on Vacay during Mother's Day, My birthday or my mom's!

Jackson got ahold of the camera

The whole gang

feeding the stingrays

Pres trying to feed the stingrays but they never came up and got it. I don't think her arms were long enough

Kissing Cousins

One of the best parts about Atlantis is the marine life that is EVERYWHERE! There is always an aquarium, sting -ray/shark exhibit, or giant sea turtles to feed. The kids couldn't get enough of it.

Each day you could find us stuffing our faces poolside. We sure did eat some amazing food there.

One day we took a ferry over to the shopping district.

the kids favorite part was drinking the Pina Colada on the boat!

Searching for souvenirs is always a fun time. Jackson always wants to get everything he sees. Since he has to pay for it he usually only gets a couple of things! He decided on a Giant Star Fish and another Shark tooth necklace ( I think he gets one on every vacay)

The boys took the kids back to the resort while us Gals stayed and did some serious Alley's shopping. We were on a mission to try and find the perfect purse, it was hot and cramped but in the end we each found one. Some of us were more happy with our purchases than others. As soon as my mom had bought one she found another one she liked Way more. That's why you make your purchase after you have seen them all.

Go Presley!

3 little birdies waiting for the next lick from their cousin Coen.

Every beach vacation Jackson's main goal is to find sea shells. He collects them and loves finding new ones. Here he is showing off a real beauty.

Yes he loves to run on the beach, and is always smiling while he does.

Pres stayed far away from the ocean, but that pesky tide finally caught up with her.

A big wave took out my 3 guys.

Steve buried Hudson and Jackson in the sand, Jackson had to get out by himself, it took him awhile but he finally made it.

For some reason my dad is ALWAYS getting hurt or sick on vacay. In Mexico he was stung by a sting ray, Georgia he broke his arm. His last vacation right before Atlantis he spent the whole time in the hospital with Diverticulitus, of which he was still in pain with in Atlantis then he got a spur in his heel. Well I tell you my dad in pain is not an easy thing to deal with. We did survive though, crutches and all.

Highlights of the trip

miami vice
crutches
"letters to god"
too much food
stale cheetos
too many sea shells
hot dog burritos
award winning "Blue Lagoon" restaurant
lobster
cereal
movie theatre

A name for the Pup

2010-10-26T07:08:00.000-07:00

The impossible has happened, my husband who does NOT like dogs and has refused to ever even consider the possibility, brought home this little pup. My kids went Crazy, Pres and Hud absolutely love dogs and anywhere they see one they go straight for it and won't stop.

Puppies first bath.

It took us a while to chase him down, I think he knew what was coming.

We love having the dog around he is a super sweet pup, even though he chews through everything. We are losing shoes left and right! We have had quite a hard time deciding on a name we have quite a list

Tucker

Puppa

Essay

Dragon

Buster

We decided on Tucker, except we still really never called him that. It has mostly been puppy or pup. A couple of weeks later Suzanne suggested we call him Charger after Stephen's all time favorite team the San Diego Chargers. We all like it, though we still call him Puppy sometimes.

It has been a ton of fun having a dog and even Stephen is getting a little better and can even be found petting him!

Hayley's Wedding Day

2010-10-22T08:02:00.000-07:00

Even with all the stress helping Hayley with her wedding plans was one of the best times EVER! I loved spending so much time with my sister. She has been waiting for this for so long and was absolutely is 7th Heaven doing all the wedding details. I thought she would be a little bridezilla but she was just the opposite, with all the problems that arose she was so calm.

Her dress was absolutely AMAZING the most beautiful I had ever seen and no one else could have looked as good as she did in it.

Too late Brett you are already married!

Bretts family did such a great job on the luncheon, we even had a toast at the end, Cute!

The Reception was SOOOOO much Fun! It was Perfect, the food was great and Hayley was so Happy! The day went off without a major hitch. I think I am going to miss all this wedding stuff.

Hayley's Shower

2010-10-20T08:29:00.000-07:00

Me, my mom and my sil Heather threw a shower for my sister Hayley who got married in September. It was so perfect, we had Cinnamon Swirl french toast with all the toppings served on beautiful china. It was so much fun, and I am just so excited for my sister.

Good Times

2010-10-19T07:14:00.000-07:00

After Sarah took Pres to get her nails done I couldn't wait to have my turn with her.

I wasn't disappointed, she is so much fun to go with. She sits there as still as can be and every couple of minutes turns to me with this little over the shoulder smile that melts my heart. I hope she is always this excited about it.

Monsoon Season

Oh how I love you, I believe my kids do as well

For the past 6 months the boys have been sleeping on a twin bed together.

(Hudson's bed is a pullout underneath this one)

This is how I found them one night.

The other night I was watching t.v and all the lights were out, when I noticed a shadow at the end of the hall. I got super freaked out and started walking towards it, when I realized it was Jackson. He was at the end of the hall facing the closet, course he wasn't just standing there, he was peeing! Apparently not only does he sleep talk but he also sleep Pees!

For my b-day Syd gave me the pancake pen, it is Awesome you can pretty much "draw" anytime shape pancake you want. So I decided each week that I would do the letter Hudson is learning in school that week. He loves it and I gotta admit it is pretty fun to eat a letter.

SmOOdy Time

2010-10-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

Presley's favorite thing to do in her kitchen is make SmOOdies! (aka smoothies) She will make you any flavor you like. Then she will proceed to tell you "No more, O.k." course then you will ask for another one and she will once again make you Another smoothie.

Hayley asked Pres if she could get some ice, Presley wasn't knocked off her game for a second. She headed over to the dresser got down on the floor and got some imaginary ice out of the "freezer" for dear Aunt Hayley. We thought it was so cute we made her do it about 10 more times!

The perfect Hostess!

My Boy's First Day of School

2010-10-05T07:44:00.000-07:00

Last year Jackson missed his first day of school while we were in Alaska. I was so glad that this year he was going to be there, since the first day is one of the most fun school days of the Year! We all walked to school pretty early so he could have some time on the playground and I could get in some pictures.

The cousins in his class. He also has a second cousin in his class plus his other cousin Ellie is in the classroom next door ( she wasn't there yet)

So excited

Hudson also started preschool this year with Miss Sicely & Miss Heidi

He is taking with his cousin Sally, Logan and David

He loved his first day and every day since. He loves showing me all the stuff in his backpack when he gets home and is so proud of his work.

Our Cabin Vacation

2010-09-30T07:41:00.000-07:00

The whole summer I had been wanting to go up to the cabin with the family and just relax. So the week before school started I took the kids up there. The first part of the week we had D-dawg and my mom up with us. On the trip up we ran into a cloud it was pretty awesome and the kids were in awe. It was raining buckets when we arrived so we stopped off for a Hot N Ready from Little Ceasars, and enjoyed the night in the warm cabin. The next day was sooo cool because of the rain, the kids played outside and joined forces with the kids next door. For the next couple of nights we tried to do smores but every time we made it up to the fire pit it started raining and wet wood and fire don't really work. We did do it a couple of nights though, luckily my mom was there she was a master at starting fire. I know I couldn't have done it with out here .

She liked the smores but thought they were too much work so she decided to just skip right to stuffing a marshmallow into her mouth.

Jackson loved to make roasted marshmallows for everyone. He was pretty good at it.

This is the little fire pit they designed by rolling logs over to sit on.

during the trip whenever the kids wanted to earn a treat they had to pick up 20 pieces of trash. Well they earned a lot of treats, I believe in the first 2 days they each picked up a 100 pieces. It was slim pickings at the end of the week, but when we left that place was Spotless! On Monday D and my mom headed back, and then the next group arrived, Colin and his family. Presley was so excited about them, she LOVES babies and couldn't get enough of little Noah. The weather continued to be great. Raining at night and the day cool. Colin showed us how to work the quads and we had a lot of fun doing that.
A couple of days later Colin's family left and up came the Reynolds. More kids yea! We had a blast with smores and quads. They only bad thing was the first night they got there we were about to make dinner when the power went out. It was only for about an hour but I swear I was about ready to pack up and leave, I was not prepared. Right in the middle of cereal for dinner they came back on, luckily since I figured they were wishing they hadn't come up. Luckily the Reynolds are troopers and can handle a little "camping"- me not so much. Steve was supposed to come up and meet us but last minute could not, so unfortunately we went the whole week without seeing him, luckily we had plenty of company. During the Reynolds stay we had a couple of more mishaps, clogged toilet, burned finger but it was still a great time.

I can't wait till next summer, hopefully Steve will be able to come up and I can stay longer.

Family Time in the Rain

2010-09-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

There is nothing better than Monsoon season, it is my absolute favorite time of the summer. I love when we all hang out in the rain playing. For someone reason every time we seem to end up playing football in the rain and that is usually the only time we play football!

Presley getting the big drips from the roof

Presley gets her nails done

2010-09-28T07:31:00.000-07:00

For her birthday Aunt Sarah took Pres to get her nails done. This was her first time, but I wasn't worried how she would act since she was so perfect while getting her hair done. Well she was just as well behaved during her nail salon experience. Sarah tried to talk her into getting pink but she was dead set on purple which is funny since pink is her favorite color. But she sat through it all in awe and loved it. The whole rest of the night she was showing everyone her nails and toe nails, telling them that Aunt Sarah took her. I can't wait till I get to take her now.

My dearest baby girl/big girl

2010-09-27T06:54:00.000-07:00

Presley is my baby, she is now 2 yrs old and my youngest child. But she is such a Big Girl most of the time, which is just so sad. and since I am not ready to have another one I need to keep her little Forever!

Presley's Loves

shoes, her shoes, new shoes, my shoes and daddy's shoes. You give this girl a pair of shoes and she will squeal in delight
Her silkie, little silkie, & other silkie- she has her 3 silkies and this is what she calls them. They do not substitute for other ones and she has to have them at all times. Yes all 3 of them.
Books- she loves to read and be read too. I am constantly finding her on her bed reading. ( favorites inclued Pout Pout Fish and 5 Little Monkeys)
Doggies- she is mesmerized by them. Her face when she is around a dog is priceless she gets so excited she can't even stand it.
Talking on the phone. My boys are not phone talkers at all, if they have to they say 2 words and then try to get off. Not Pres, she is constantly getting my phone and calling people on her own. My friend Amanda said Pres called her the other day and they had a little chat! It is so fun to talk to her on the phone ( even though I can't always tell her and Hudson apart) she has stories, she gets excited and she never wants to hang up. The best thing about Presley on the phone is watching her talk to someone. Her facial expressions are priceless- she is REALLY into it and we all love her for it.
Binkie- she loves it and refuses to part with it. Enough said
Her Uncle LaLa- her boyfriend- he can turn her frown upside down anytime, mention his name and all is well.
Her babies- she loves them all
Lotion- she is constantly sneaking it and then trying to rub it all over us
Makeup/chapstick- she loves putting on my makeup, taking my chapstick and putting it in her pocket.
Nursery- from the moment she was able to go in she has loved it, never cried for one second. She walk right in and starts playing, she loves snack time and singing time. She comes home singing Itsy Bitsy Spider
FOOD- yes if you know Pres you know that her love for food is equal to that of mine. This girl can't get enough.
Goats Milk- yes she like all milk but will request Goats milk no matter where she is.

For these and so many other reasons we absolutely ADORE our Presley girl. She is my best friend, whenever I am away from her I am constantly missing her. Presley has such character, she is constantly making us laugh, I will never be able to get enough and if I could I would make her stay this age Forever!

Dressed up in one of my old dance costumes

passed out with her silkies and binkie

shoe fetish

finished product

One of her favorite birthday gifts, a brush. She has been brushing our hair ever since.

Pres got into the drawer I was organizing and this is what she came up with

Presley's Milk & Cookie Party

2010-09-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

a few months before Presley's b-day I told Steve I wanted to get her a toy chest, so we looked around and we couldn't seem to find anything cheap enough. That is when he said he could make one himself for way cheaper then any of those! Well I had my doubts, but it didn't take him long at all. I was so excited for Pres to have something that her dad made her.

before it was done me and my mom went to work on the aesthetics of it. Luckily I had her because it would never have turned out as nice as it did without her.

After Presley's 1st Birthday Purple party I said that this year was just going to be a simple affair. But after seeing this website I HAD to do the "milk and cookie" party. Fortunately I have a great family who helped me pull it off. It may not have been as nice as the one on the website but I thought it turned out pretty good.

( my sil heather made these Fabulous oreo cookies- a new business she is starting)

( suzy's awesome banners- btw she is selling them now for a great price)

my vision for this cookie cake was a little more classy- but hey it did the job

Presley loves babies and as soon as one showed up at the party she had to go and see him.

Aunt Sarah took pres to get her nails done for the first time, before her party.

( more pics later)

She showed them off all party!

Boyfriend 1

Boyfriend 2

Never missing an opportunity to eat

Ready for presents

all these pics are so cute- Presley is famous for her faces and she did not dissapoint

filling up their bags at the cookie bar

tills and pres

everyone was in love with Grandma C's awesome find

Happy Birthday to Presley

7.17.10

2010-09-09T08:12:00.000-07:00

My beautiful girl went to bed a one year old and emerged a 2 yr. old little lady.

My kids would always pick Cereal for breakfast ( which saddens me) so it was no surprise that that is what Miss Pres picked for her birthday breakfast, complete with Her Pink bowl.

that night we decided to do "Ice Cream" for diner for Presley' s birthday and the fact that I have been wanting to start a tradition of having Ice cream for dinner one night during the summer.

We picked Thrifty because they have the best ice cream.

and who did we run into

Suz, Ellie and Quincy

I couldn't believe it. Pres couldn't have been more excited to see them.

Lebaron Reunion '10

2010-09-08T15:13:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite traditions that I married into is that of the Lebaron Annual Reunion.

My family is super small on both sides, I have a total of 6 cousins all together! Not Steve his Lebaron side is Ginormous. I absolutely love going to the Reunion every year, my kids do as well and why wouldn't they with all the fun things the family in charge plans.

This year the Carroll's were in charge we had cooking classes, Minute to Win it competitions, games in the meadow, plates, Wayne's breakfast and so much more. I think my favorite was the Testimony meeting, the spirit was so strong and I really felt connected to the family.

The first morning always starts out with Waynes breakfast. Jackson was looking forward to this most.

He loves being able to make it all himself.

Yes i get a picture of each kid helping make theirs but we know the real person behind it all.

Waiting for their turn at bat. Hudson was so excited

he should go pro!

always a grin- even though his pop fly was caught

wrestling with the cousins

Stuff

2010-08-26T15:47:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of differences in these 2 pics that are one year apart. My long hair, Presley's no hair and super chubbiness. But there is one constant that is at almost EVERY Eager Parade- Jackson and his grumpiness. For someone reason each year something sets him off, and he proceeds to pout the rest of the morning. Not participating in any of the candy getting fun of every parade. I really hope next year I will be telling a different tell.

Bright Eyes

Getting ready to make a dash for some candy!

Jackson still pouting

After she got a few things she decided she just wanted to start in on the bag

I know this looks pretty dangerous but trust me she was safe!

for the 4th weekend my family headed up to our cabin in Show low to make a whole weekend out of it. We went to Eager for the 4th. Great fun, and even better food!

Then we watched the fireworks in Showlow- Steve found us an awesome place to watch but we all seemed to think it lasted way too long. It was only 45 min. but we were all done at 30min.

We played games, ate food and enjoyed the company. Till next year.......

The new highlight of the cabin is the little swings on the porch ( which are actually foot rests for a larger swing.) The only problem was there are only 2 and everyone wanted to swing. I even gave it a whirl and man was it fun.

Fathers Day

Jackson got home late that night from a trip. As soon as he got home he couldn't wait to give dad all his presents. He even put in a dollar of his own money. He knows his dad pretty well. J also brought home some crawdads he caught at the cabin- I think that was dad's fav. present they gobbled them right up.

catch up!

2010-07-29T11:31:00.000-07:00

If i wasn't using this blog to help me make their remembrance books I think i would give up all together. But since I am also way behind on their books I better get started before I forget everything.

There is nothing like finding your kids getting along so well. It sure makes my heart melt.

My oldest has finally lost his first tooth at age 6 1/2.

He was so excited. Grandma Cheryl had given all Posse a Tooth Fairy Book. It has all sort of neats things in it, stories, myths, facts, a tooth pillow, stationery for the tooth fairy and a chart.

Jackson woke up early to check his pillow and found 2 Quarters! What a lucky kid!

( even though he was expecting a dollar)

Guess he will have to loose another tooth.

Swim lessons

During swim lessons last year Hudson did so well. He never once cried and he always got right in and listened.

This time we had semi-private lessons ( from my from Katie) so I thought he would be great. The first 2 days he pretty much fought it the entire time and was scared to do everything. But by the end he was swimming great! He has continued to improve and now loves the pool and his teacher!

Pres on the other hand was a hot mess! She screamed for 2 wks straight and hated the pool the whole 2 weeks.

the second to last day during Hudson's lesson she monkey walked around the pool for a straight half hour. The next day we noticed blisters on her hands and feet- it was the saddest thing ever.

The day after her last lesson she started loving the pool again and goes around in her noodle everywhere.

After school let out we planned a trip to the Arizona Grand- and invited a long some family.

The kids had a blast, we didn't see Jackson the whole time, he was hanging out at the slides and hot tub! of course

Pres, Hud and I mostly hung out at the baby pool with the Le Barons, Suzy & Lance and Colin & Heather.

and of course some celebrities Grant Hill and Jason Richardson!

Kindergarten program-

Jackson and Ellie were in the back and were so funny! after every song the would look at eachother, throw their heads back and laugh.

Jackson also had a speaking part and did so GREAT!

j and his teacher Mrs. Skabelund

Grandma K

Grandma Cheryl and the rest of the Posse in Kindergarten

When he got home from his last day of school I had an end of the year present waiting for him that he Loved!

( this is him cheering for the water balloons)

Pres and I took a night out when the boys went to Father and Sons.

It was so much fun hanging out with her.

May Happenings

2010-06-30T10:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some cute pics my uncle took at my mom's b-day party.

i love there faces in this one

In May, Hudson and his cousins graduated from Grandma C's preschool that she her 6th graders put on. It is only like 5 times but they love it.

They were also the youngest of all the kids in it. Most will be moving up to Kindergarten but they still have 2 more years.

They put on a production of songs they have learned, during the diploma parts. Presley weasled her way onto the stage and normally I would pull her off but she was being really good up there. My MIL kept saying " now this little girl gets to come up here since she is a grandchild"

here my niece putting lip gloss on pres mid performance. Gotta look your best!

Hudson receiving his Diploma

every kid was asked a series of question

# of people in family- 1

favorite color- blue

fav. candy bar-candy necklace

favorite animal- dog

t.v. show- clipper

fav. thing to do- gather eggs

fav. thing to do at preschool - recess

"if I were the boss of everybody I'd make everyone" - go outside

now I am not sure if the gather eggs meant, the chicken eggs he gets at grandmas or finding easter eggs -both of which he loves

Hudson didn't sing much he was pretty much in awe the entire time, he was almost in a daze. Pres got really into it and sang most every song with them even though she had never heard them, she did pretty well.

Each child had a buddy that stayed with them the entire time and this was Hudson's

teacher/grandma

the graduates

until next year.......

April

2010-05-17T09:34:00.000-07:00

April was a super busy month, again!

All the Cummards took a trip up to my favorite place, The Gila Valley aka Thatcher aka EAC aka The BEST Small Town EVER!

I was so excited about going since it has been 9 yrs. since I had been up there. and I truly missed it, plus my good friend Maryann moved back up there a couple of years ago and I really wanted to see her.

I absolutely loved the Temple it was perfect in every way. I loved how when you looked at it from the front you could see the beautiful Mountains in the back. It was so serene.

The children loved taking the tour and they were so good. I know they were feeling the spirit.

I wished I could have gotten a pic of Pres in the little booties you had to put on, it was adorable. Course those didn't last long before they started bugging here and we had to hold her the rest of the way.
President Kimball's house
Checking out the old school. It has changed SOOOOOO much, I miss it.

I showed my kids where I used to live

We all went to lunch at El Charro, which wasn't always my fav. but this time it was the best. There Green Chili Chimi was to die for, I am craving it just talking about it.

After that we went to Maryann's to see there beautiful house they built and to visit.

All in all a Great trip and I hope I can get back up there before another decade rolls around.

For months I have been going back and forth with whether or not to cut Presley's Lovely Lady Locks.

True they were a full on MULLET, but she had the sweetest curls which fit oh so perfectly into the cutest pigtails.

But My better sense won out and I decided to do it for the good of the hair.

Here are some PRE-haircut shots I took before so I would never forget.

Here we are waiting in the Salon.
In all of these pictures you will notice that her hands don't move from this position. She was PERFECT she never once freaked out, she did everything Laree asked of her with out persuasion and was an angel. I had brought a bag of skittles to bribe her but I never even needed to pull it out.

I was one proud MaMa

Here are some after shots, trying out a new hairstyle. Since the piggies are gone and she can finally wear her hair down.

Truly how could you not love this girl

Huddy's first day of Preschool with Grandma C.

Grandmas 6th grade class puts on a 5 wk. preschool every year that when the grandkids are of age get to attend. It is now the Crew's turn.

It will be Huddy, Sally and Jonnie attending.

Grandma picks them up in the morning before she heads to school and then they get picked up when it is over.

He has been looking forward to this for Months, this was the main motivating factor in him being potty trained!

So that morning he woke up no hesitation, got ready and got his backpack which he wanted something in so I put in a pencil ( which apparently got lost at school which incited a breakdown- luckily pencil was found)

I was at work when he got home but Hollin said he was so excited about all the cool stuff in his backpack and he wouldn't take his crown off. In fact he wore it for about 3 Hours before he would finally take it off.

Ever since J was 1 Haircutting time was an absolute nightmare. That centered around Fighting, Yelling, Punishments, Bribery and Trickery. In the end it usually gets done in one way or the other. This time was no exception, Bribery won out though and frankly I think I got the better part of the deal.

He traded one buzzed head for a trip to the Ice Cream Man. - This was by far the easiest one yet. I may be using it again.

We discovered these blue spots on his head afterward, that came from some spray at the neighbors-ghetto I would say!

Here is Pres washing Huddy's hair, which she does basically every time they take a bath.

A couple of weeks ago during some beautiful weather we decided to have a picnic outside

Jack's Zoo Fieldtrip

2010-05-17T09:23:00.000-07:00

Jackson's Fieldtrip this year was at the zoo. I was so glad he wanted me to go so bad. I know that won' t last forever.

All the pics of the animals he took himself. He was really into being the photographer.

Jack, Ellie and Melanie- all in the same class

He is already an old pro from milking the goats at Grandmas

He was so excited about his lunch, we went the night before to pick out snacks for the day. I think it was one of his fav. parts

It is so nice having so many cousins in the same grade at the same school.

Cousins

Friends

April

2010-04-27T16:49:00.000-07:00

Jackson's Field day-

I love getting to go see my children in all their different elements. It is always so neat and interesting how they interact with others and the things they do.

I was able to go see Jack at his field day -which he wanted me to go to soo bad. ( I love that he still wants me to go, and will keep trying as long as he wants me too)

Jackson and his pals

what an athlete

Every year Grandma C does a boys sleepover and a girls sleepover.

This is Presley's first time going and she had a BLAST!!!!!!!

she didn't sleepover- though that didn't keep her from hanging out all night.

When I went to get her I found her like this and then she proceeded to start bouncing up and down like crazy. Which she had been doing most of the night.

when she got in the car she started going crazy giddy and continued this at home.

She was definitely on a sugar high!

Here is Jackson with his first Gotcha- a ticket they get for being good and then can redeem at the Gotcha store.

He was so proud of it and is trying to earn more to buy something at the store.

Jackson and his friends have such a green thumb. Awhile ago they planted some seeds for a Sweet Peas and a Sweet Pea flower. Well they watered those plants EVERY day and would get so excited in any growth they got. Here is the first fruit of their labors. A sweet juicy pea.

and he Loved it!

We finally started our Garden, a little late this year. We didn't plant much, zuchinni and squash and some artichoke.

But everyone got involved and had a lot of fun.

This is what I found in the bottom of washing machine. I of course knew it was Hudson- being that he is kind of a klepto and anything he can get his hands into he puts into his pocket. So I am constantly finding stuff in them or at the bottom of my Washer!

2010-04-12T09:52:00.000-07:00

Every tuesday night I have my grandpa and uncle over for dinner. On this particular night the kids got my grandpa out for some ball.

Here is the Easter Egg hunt for the ward

a rousing game of duck duck goose while the eggs were being hid

patiently waiting

Can you say Ecstatic

Our Sunday Best

For our FHE activity one night we Jackson wanted to make "Egg Babies"

( after he saw the neighbors with some)

as soon as presley got her's she accidentally squeezed it to death.

yes Jackson requested this picture

March Madness

2010-04-08T09:15:00.000-07:00

This month was definitely packed full of FUN!

For FHE during Spring Break the Cummards went out to Fountain Hills for a picnic dinner.

The kids had a blast feeding the ducks and chasing after them and playing with their cousins.

Pres of course enjoyed her dinner.

notice the fountain in the background

At Home Depot one day they had a kids free planting time.

The boys loved it, Jackson is so into planting things and watching them grow.

I took they boys out to dinner and a movie at the Picture show to see the Squeekquel! It was a little crazy and Jackson almost lost it during dinner but all in all it was a lot of fun spending quality time with the boys and they did so well during the movie. Hudson wouldn't stop eating the popcorn, I was worried he was going to get a tummy ache so I finally took it away from him.

A couple of weeks ago the Cummard family goats had some babies. My babies were able to watch the miracle of life, they thought it was pretty cool.

Here is Pres getting her cheese on

Hudson loving the baby goat to death

I had the camera out and this little gal made her way over to get in a picture.

Here is Pres sneaking food to the prisoner aka Jackson in time out.

grandpa bob playing golf with the kids