Growing Up Allphin

Bachelor Brownies

2011-03-14T10:32:00.000-07:00

Maple Walnut Brownies with Maple Glaze

Every Monday night the Gals in my family get together for The Bachelor. (Are we wanna be teens or what?)
On said nights, we bring treats to my aunt Trish's house, watch the show, and have a great time.
Since tonight is the Finale, I decided to make my favorite Brownie. They are actually Maple Bars with a Maple Glaze, but tonight they are Bachelor Brownies.
I found this recipe on another blog and I am totally sharing it with you!
It is so Heavenly and a lot like the delicious blondie brownies from Applebee's.
So Enjoy!!!

Wedding Fever

2011-03-08T06:50:00.000-08:00

The Happy Couple
Me and Courtney
The OTHER Happy Couple
Court and Kevin
Freakin' Crazy Boys
Me and Melissa (and Josh in the background)
It was such a great day and we all had such a blast being together as a family. Congrats Brian and Taylor!!! We love you guys.

My sweet little brother in law got hitched last weekend and we couldn't be more excited. He married this smokin' hot babe from Vegas that our cousin Josh set him up with. I am BF's with Josh's sister (who is Jeremy's cousin), so I guess you could say we like keeping it all in the family.
Did I mention Jeremy's sister is married to this guy Jordan. And Jordan's sister is married to Jeremy's OTHER brother....anyway you get the picture. We are all doubly related somehow. Must be from living in Utah:)
So Friday was the big day. Brian and Taylor got married in the Draper Temple. It was so amazing to see Brian's continuously smiling grin. You couldn't have wiped it off with a shovel! Taylor was amazingly gorgeous (of course) and the family was all together. A luncheon was soon to follow, with a reception that eve @ the Castle in Layton.
The decor was gorgeous, and we had a rip roarin' good time. We danced the night away (well, Jeremy did) and sent the new couple out in a blaze of illegal Sparklers.

This is what I think of Gas Prices

2011-03-08T06:44:00.000-08:00

Good thing we as a family mostly use one car. But still...I can remember in High School when gas was under a dollar! Those were the good ol' days. I'd roll up to ERZ gas station in my sweet little red Acura Integra and the dollar signs would not even reach $15. Now 12 years later, I almost have to sell myself (or one of the children) to fill up my truck. No fair. Guess I'd better start walking...good for the wallet AND good for the behind. It's a total Win Win!

Yet to be published..

2011-02-10T14:00:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd FINALLY add last fall's family photos. These were taken up in Brigham City, UT. It's always hard to get some good shots, with three kiddos involved, but Heather did a great job at making us look great. Now I just need to print some off for my walls!

Two firsts...

2011-02-07T11:15:00.001-08:00

Not that you can tell by the pictures, but Miles just recently sprouted his two bottom teeth. I tried to show the newbies, but it was just not happening!
He is 8 months old now and both teeth popped up in the last month. He has been super cranky and not sleeping well, but is still my little "SMiles".
He has been the smiliest and happiest baby (I think) of all three and he just chills out and grins all day.
He is sitting up and rolling over, yet refuses to be on his tummy. Who knows when this kid will start scooting or crawling. He won't even get his tushie up in the air. Little Stinker!
Then I think about it and it's kind of nice to not have him mobile, because that would just add a whole other level of chaos to my life!
For now, I'm fine smooching on him and snuggling up because I know once he gets on the move, my chances are going to be few and far between.
Love you Smiles!

Happily...Once upon a Potty

2011-02-07T06:49:00.001-08:00

originally uploaded by Kelly West Mars.

It's Official....Lauren is potty trained!!!! Oh, how I have anxiously been awaiting the day. There have been lots of ups and downs, and in's and out's, but we are finally there.

The Princess/Dora/Flower Panties (I HATE that word) are busted out all day every day. They are her badge of honor.

The telling of her "makings" on the potty and the flashing of the undies are told and shown to all that care (or don't care) to know!
Little Lulu is so proud and I couldn't be more excited. Going to the bathroom is now a family event and cheers are heard round the house.
Yeah for us!

Now if I could just get her to give up her Binky....I KNOW, I KNOW!!!!! Gasps are heard round the world that that is not gone. One thing at once, ya know? :)

I really need to get on the ball...

2010-12-19T10:11:00.000-08:00

I have been a seriously horrible slacker this past year in the Blog department. Perhaps my New Year's Resolution should be too blog at least once a week. Guess that means I need to actually start taking pictures of my family. Updates are soon to follow....Hopefully.

The Blessed 4th

2010-07-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

We are a very Patriotic Family and our favorite Holiday is the 4th of July. We always go to the parade/carnival, have a good old B-B-Q, and do fireworks. We are so blessed to live in this country and we love to celebrate it!
This year we also celebrated the Blessing of sweet little Miles. We came up from Vegas so that our friends and family could participate. Jeremy gave Miles an amazing blessing and it was awesome. (too bad he was crying since his binky got dropped)
We are so lucky Miles came to our family and he has been such a joy since day one. He is so sweet and scrumptious!
The Mr. and Mrs. and MilesMckay and his two cousins, Maddie and AidanDad and the boo hooer.

Sweet Lauren marching to and fro.

Thanks to all who came and supported us! (and for bringing delicious food)
We love you all and are so glad to have you in our lives.

New Addition

2010-06-07T18:36:00.000-07:00

Miles Reuben Allphin...born Wednesday, May 26th, 2010. Weighing in at a grand total of 6 lbs. 15 ounces. Measuring 21 1/2 inches long. Arriving with a crop of light brown hair and a gorgeous face. The labor was long, the birth was easy and quick. Mom is fine and dandy.

Miles unfortunately was born with Group B Strep. (my test was negative)
He started showing symptoms the night he was born and was admitted to the NICU early Thursday morning. They started him on antibiotics that lasted for 10 whole days!!
Back and forth to the Hospital we went for feedings and snuggles. Other than the bacteria, he was perfect. He was released Sunday, June 6th with no problems whatsoever.
We are home now in Vegas and trying to get our house and life back in order. I ended up being in Utah with the kids for 3 whole weeks. It was a super long time to be away, but I'm so glad that I decided to deliver up there.
I don't know what I would have done without the support of all our friends and family. You guys ROCK!!!! Thank you so much for all your help and prayers. They came in handy.
I am so blessed with my sweet baby boy who has come to join our family. We are all so excited he is finally here! Not to mention, healthy at last.

Miles and Me

2010-06-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

Miles Allphin; May 26, 2010 from Nathan Pickett on Vimeo.

My wonderful and talented brother in law came to the Hospital the other night and filmed Miles and Me. I will fill everyone in on all the happenings that have been going on since I had him, but first I just had to post this little clip. I am in LOVE!!!!!!!

Graduation Day

2010-05-13T12:56:00.001-07:00

Mckay was sooo sad to leave Ms. Heather. He adores his Preschool teacher.
Lauren needed some cake too, Bud.
Yeah for Mckay!! His first school Diploma. It better not be his last.....
His class singing their Welcome to School Song.
Some kind of Ruckus.
Um, there are no words....
Buddy and Lulu were so excited for Graduation.

So sad that Mckay is out of Preschool. He has had such a blast this year and has had an awesome class. He loves his teacher Ms. Heather and he is always sad when we miss a day during traveling. I know he is soooo ready for Kindergarten, but will miss preschool. It's been fun to see him learn and grow and take direction. (Now if only he'd take direction from Mom)
I can't believe how fast the past 4 1/2 years have gone! It feels like we just moved to Vegas, had Lauren and now we are gearing up for #3!!!
Mckay is such a little smarty pants and I can't wait to see what he comes up with next. Good Job Buddy!!! We are so proud of you!!!

Watermelon

2010-05-11T13:48:00.001-07:00

I have a craving....for watermelon! I cannot stop eating them. I have gone through 5 watermelons in a 2 week period. This is crazy.
Not only do I crave watermelon, but my stomach has started to resemble one. I look like I am smuggling a watermelon in my shirt.
I even dream of watermelons. Somebody help me. This can't be good.

It's in the bag...

2010-05-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

I am officially in LOVE!!! I have been searching the world over for the perfect diaper bag and I finally found it. It is the JJ Cole Swag Bag and it just came in the mail today. My sweet Grandpa purchased the gift for me and it is just awesome. It is the perfect size and has all the right compartments. With my other two hooligans, I just bought random bags and never really liked any of them. I was being cheap and indecisive.
However, this time around (probably my last) I decided to grow up and get a grown up bag. I love it when I make good decisions!!!!
Thanks Bonnie Mae!

Getting bigger every day

2010-05-04T15:29:00.000-07:00

It's always a good thing to have a photographer friend. My pal Kelsey Anderson asked me to "model" for her blog and portfolio. I never really thought about having maternity shots done, but these turned out so awesome. And these are just a few of the great ones she took! It was so fun! I love that they capture my sassiness! You know how it can be when you are preggo...you feel ugly, fat, sweaty, and yuck. But with these photos, I actually feel pretty! It's a good thing because after this baby comes, I won't be cute for a LONG time!!!!

No pool? No problem!

2010-04-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

Don't have a pool? Just grab any old house item, grab the hose, and fill it up. Buckets work great too! I also don't let my kids eat from bowls or plates. Their hands work great and less clean up. Bikes? Nah, we just roll the kiddos around in the garbage cans. It's amazing the things you can save money on and still have fun. :)

It's my Party and I'll pout if I want to.....

2010-03-31T21:09:00.000-07:00

Lauren thought it would be hilarious to make some silly faces whilst we were singing the good old Birthday Song. She is too funny!!! The video is even better. Little Stinker!!!
Just a little pin the flower on Dora. Good times.
Lauren collecting her treats
Poor Dora has no idea what is going to happen.....The Candy Raid!!!
Jessica, Denille, Glenda, Shellie, Bree, and Mari!!! Just a few of my gal pals from the mom/play group we are members of down here in Vegas. I couldn't invite my whole group, seeing as there are around 50 moms (+ their kids) and that would be like a Ringling Bro's Circus in my house. Thanks, but no thanks!!! All of us that were in attendance had a great time, good food, even better Red Velvet Cupcakes, and excitement to boot.
Lauren and Mckay were on their best/worst behavior and I guess that's to be expected at a Party. The kids decorated their Pinata bags, played pin the flower on Dora, whacked Dora and got some goodies in between.
Lauren got some great gifts and they were played with all afternoon. (After nap of course)
Dora was the theme of the day, and now our house in a Dora Wonderland.
Lauren also got a great new Play Kitchen and all the kids had a blast playing with it! Fun for all.
It was so much fun to get together and I just wish our family and Utah friends could have been there too.
But don't worry Utahn's! You'll get your chance with us soon enough.
HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY LAUREN!!!

A tisket, A tasket....

2010-03-31T20:57:00.000-07:00

Since Jerm and I are now on the ward Activities Committee, we were in charge of the Annual Easter Brunch. Unfortunately it was a frosty morning with lots of wind, but did we care??? No!!! We still fired up the grills, fried some pancakes and sausage, and devoured lots of delicious eats. And we threw in a little Easter Egg Hunt for the kids while we were at it. They had a blast!!!

Mckay and Lauren checking out their loot.
Showing off the goods.
My little Easter Sweet.
Mom and the sllies.Getting ready to head out the door. Couldn't put down the sippy for a shot, could you Lauren?
Mckay and Lauren doing what they do best...being silly!!!

Let's Discover

2010-03-31T20:47:00.000-07:00

Mckay loving life in the wind simulator. It was going 90 mph!!!
Just hanging out, doing a puzzle. It's what we do.
Why are we getting wet??? Because we can, mom, because we can.

Since it's Spring Break and since we had nothing to do, we decided to meet some friends at the Discovery Museum down here in the LV. The kids love going there and they go crazy the minute we walk in the doors. I like it too, except for the mass amounts of homeless people that sloth around outside the building. CREEPY!!!
There are so many fun things to do there and if you have ever been to the Ogden Tree House, you would love it at the Discovery Museum. Mom just doesn't appreciate being pregnant and trying to chase 2 kiddos all over Tar-nation. What a workout!!!

Moons over Las Vegas

2010-03-17T19:46:00.001-07:00

I am a total Twilight fan and I am anxiously awaiting Saturday when New Moon hits stores. SOOOOOO pathetic of this (almost 30 yr. old) mom of 2 1/2. Feel free to gag if you want...but Robert Pattinson is delish!

Village Dance

2010-02-11T20:50:00.001-08:00

We all know that Mckay says totally random things, and today he stepped up to the crazy plate once again.
We were driving up to get gas this morning and he notices this man walking into the gas station. Said business man had on a suit and was looking pretty sharp. Mckay then says to me, "Mom that man over there looks like he is going to the village dance".
Now, I had no idea what he was talking about, even though I thought it was hilarious. He then tells me that on his school letters cd, there is a song called Victor the Vulture who gets dressed up and takes his Valentine to the village dance.
I guess if you are dressed up around here, you are going dancing. How does he come up with this stuff????

Mckay's Valentine

2010-02-10T20:06:00.001-08:00

Mckay is REALLY excited for his preschool Valentine's Day Party tomorrow! He picked out Fun Dip Valentine's for his classmates and wrote their names on all of them. We decided that his teacher Ms. Heather needed a special Valentine. So I busted out my multi purpose brown bags, gave Mckay some markers and set him down to color. This is the bag he came up with. I didn't get a picture of the back, but he also drew a picture of their class dog Isha. He is too cute! He told me and Jeremy that "all his friends will love his Valentine's and they will all hug him and think he is a nice guy". His words exactly. Tender Moments were had by all.

For those who don't know....

2010-02-10T18:56:00.001-08:00

I'm not sure if anyone even checks the old blog anymore, but if you do and you don't already know....IT'S A BOY!!!!!
I am 24 weeks along and getting bigger every day. Mckay is super stoked and can't wait to have a little brother. Lauren kisses my tummy and tells baby brother hello. Whenever we ask her where is baby brother, she lifts up her shirt and says "right here mama." Adorable. It will be so weird to have a baby boy again. I have been so used to girly things that now I need to revert my brain back to little willies!!!

"Modern Family"

2010-02-07T18:11:00.001-08:00

"Modern Family" - 9/23/09, originally uploaded by knoopie.

Okay-So I was a little skeptical to watch this show, but it has turned into my favorite sitcom ever!!! Jeremy and I are so in love with it and we look forward to every Wednesday night when the kids are in bed and we can sit and vedge out. This is usually after I have sent Jeremy out the door to indulge my pregnancy frozen yogurt craving. Our tv line up goes as follows: Monday=Bachelor (Jeremy truly loves this show too.)
Tuesday=American Idol
Wednesday=Modern Family
Thursday=The Office

A little too much tv, or what???

I'm a Barbie Girl...

2010-01-11T12:20:00.001-08:00

So this is just too cute! I was in the dollar aisle at my favorite haunt Target (or Tar-Jay) if you will, and Lauren saw a little Barbie hair brush and started screaming for it. So what was I to do? I threw it in the cart and she immediately started brushing her hair. She has been obsessed with it ever since and has been brushing all our lovely locks.
I left Jer with the kids the other day and out came the brush to brush dad's hair. While he was holding her, she looks at the brush (picture of Barbie included) and says "This Mama." Jeremy looks at her and says, "Where Lou?" She holds up said brush, points to it and says again "Mama, pretty."
I don't really know if I should be flattered or scared that my daughter thinks I am Barbie...Then again I have been called worse, so I guess I'll let her keep on believing.

Silly Boy

2010-01-09T07:59:00.000-08:00

So this morning Mckay says to me, "Mom I want some friends to come and play today."
And I told him his friend Blaire (who's 1) is coming to play today and we are going to babysit her.
He looks at me and replies, "No thank you mom. I'd rather have some friends that can talk."

Where does this child come from?

Not Much...

2010-01-08T11:33:00.000-08:00

The only things I have accomplished thus far today are as follows:

A. Make waffles for breakfast

B. Get the kids dressed (notice how I didn't say me)

C. Open the garage for the bug spray man and then close it

And that is it!!! I have literally done nothing today and it is already 11:34 am. That could be the most pathetic thing I have ever heard.

What have YOU done today?!?!

Mug Shot

2010-01-08T10:37:00.001-08:00

Good Heck! I found this strange man lurking in my Grandma's house. I think I need to call the authorities. Someone rescue me! Please!!

Burning a Hole...

2010-01-06T14:19:00.001-08:00

I have been spending WAY too much money on line today. I guess I decided it was a good idea to purchase a few extra things. Lauren needs more shoes, right? I need another new hat. Not to mention the new Allphin Family Calendar.
I'm so depressed...Guess I'll go to Target.

All I want for Christmas....

2009-12-14T19:49:00.001-08:00

Abigail, originally uploaded by AnAngelAtMyTable.

I'm not asking for much. It's not too difficult of a request. I don't want to freeze my sweet little piggies off this Holiday season, so I am asking Santa for a pair of UGG boots for Christmas. That is ALL I am asking for! I don't want a puppy (no poop for me), I don't want a new car (not yet anyway), and I don't want a pair of Christmas fleece pajamas (much to Mckay's dismay).
So if you are listening Santa, I have been an extra good girl this year and If you feel so inclined.....PRETTY PLEASE leave me a new pair of boots under the tree.
(I promise to leave out milk and cookies the night before)!

I'm Fat?

2009-12-09T11:02:00.001-08:00

So for those of you that don't know I'm expecting...there is the news flash. The other day as I was hustling and bustling to get ready, Mckay was watching and had a strange look on his face. I was clothes less and Mckay says, "Mom are your boobs getting big and you are getting fat because there is a baby in your tummy or because you ate too much?" Ummmm, both? Thanks a lot kid for the self esteem boost!

Snow....in Vegas?!?!?

2009-12-07T19:25:00.000-08:00

I never thought I would say these next words.....I miss the snow. So what did we do about that? Why we drove a measly 30 miles up to Mt. Charleston and drove around in a snowstorm, that's what! We went to lunch at The Lodge (again) and watched the gorgeous snow fall right outside our window. Mckay and Lauren tried hot chocolate for the first time and they both enjoyed it. We sat by the fire and got toasty warm. After that, we drove to the ski resort and got out for some fun in the snow. We really weren't adequately dressed, but whatever! That didn't stop us one bit! What a great day we had. Now the children are nestled all snug in their beds.....dreaming of more snow I bet!
Mckay and the creepy dancing Santa. Lauren was petrified of him!!!

Gotta eat some snow, right? Fresh mountain snow is the best.
Our little Snow Angel. If only this were true all the time!!!

Budding Genius...

2009-12-07T10:57:00.000-08:00

Here is a little video I found of Mckay and his early reading skills. This was in the summer of 2007, right before he turned 2 years old. I love/hate to brag about his abilities, but he really is super smart and loves to read. We used to have a poster board on our fridge of the 100 or so words he could read before his 2nd. Birthday. What a delight it has been to watch his little mind learn and grow. Hopefully he decides to become a Doctor or something equally as wonderful....

Christmas' Past

2009-12-07T10:18:00.000-08:00

I was going through our computer pictures the other day and came across some adorable Christmas memories from the last couple years. I thought I'd post a couple random ones so everyone can remember how much fun we as a family have had throughout the years. I have been seriously negligent on the blogging lately, so I feel the need to catch up a little bit.
Mckay was only 3 months old in this sweet picture. What a cute little chubbers.
My favorite Christmas present that year....I just think this one is super sweet. He kept licking the blanket!Mckay was two years old, out helping Dad in the snow. How I miss our Layton house!
At the annual Mead Family Christmas Party. We are so sad we missed it this year.

Christmas at Magical Forest 2008. Mckay was 3 and Lauren 8 months. No hair, Lou.

Please Santa, won't you come to our house for a visit????Lauren in so small. And has no hair! Why did I not have a bow on her head?

Our little Family! I can't believe there will be one more of us next year! Hard to imagine.

And there you have it! Just a little reminder of how important my family is to me. I am ever mindful of the importance of family, especially this time of year. I love creating new memories and traditions with my kids that hopefully they will remember always. Enjoy!!!

Yule Tide Greetings!

2009-12-06T08:37:00.000-08:00

Apparently, Mckay must do this face almost every time we try to do a nice picture. Stinker!!!
Enjoying the pony ride with my favorite little gal pal.
Another turn, Please???
Ummmm, dad liked riding the Hair Pony a little too much. Some resemblance????
Oh dear Santa. How you wish Mrs. Clause could look this good!!!!!
Our little snow family. Minus Dad of course. He was taking the picture.
Mom and Mckay on the slide of Death. Loved it!
Oh, the joys of sitting on Santa's knee. We all whispered something we want for Christmas.
Notice how Lauren looks just like Jeremy......
And Mckay looks just like Mom! Isn't is supposed to be the other way around??!!
We had a great day at Opportunity Village. It's a non-profit organization that helps special needs people have jobs and such. This is the second year we have visited The Magical Forest with our play group and we have loved this little tradition. Dad actually came with us this year, completing the family fun. We rode the carousel, slid the slide,sat on Santa's lap and rode the Santa Express. I think Santa liked mom a little too much. He asked the kids if they'd been naughty or nice. HE then asked mom if she'd been nice and naughty!?!? Um, creepy!
It was a cold day here in Vegas, but we didn't mind since we were all together enjoying the Holiday Spirit. After the Village, we were a little hungry and didn't want to go home quite yet. So what did we do? Why, we drove up to Mt. Charleston to eat a delicious lunch at the Lodge. It was freezing!!! But we got to sit by a raging fire, drink hot chocolate, and eat delicious pizza. What fun we had!
I am so glad that we can do things together. I am so excited that we get to spend all of Christmas in Utah this year and be around our dear friends and family who we miss soooooo much!!!! I have really had a hard time lately, being away from everyone we love. I know someday we'll get to move home and I can't wait til that day. Until then, ya'll will just have to suffer having us come and take over your house every few months! But you know you love it!!!

Gangsta Girl?

2009-11-16T11:10:00.001-08:00

While mom was in Utah having a visit, dad was in charge of the kiddos. Dad got sick of dressing Lauren in "good" clothes so he decided to raid Mckay's closet and find something a little more grubby. This is the end result. I'm just so proud!!!

Mckay's 1st day of Pre-K

2009-09-13T13:34:00.001-07:00

My sweet little boy on his first day of school.

Mckay and his proud/scary looking dad.
The budding genius and his excited mama.
Couldn't take any pictures without sweet little Lulu!
I can't believe my boy is old enough to go to preschool. Truly, he should be starting 1st grade seeing as he knows as much as them, but that is not how it goes. He was super excited to get dropped off and could have cared left when I left him there. (Gee mom, don't let the door hit you on the way out.)
Mckay will turn 4 this week and the time has gone by so fast it makes my head hurt! My sweet, gorgeous little baby is now a big boy. He amazes me every single day. After I picked him up from school, he was stoked to go home and do his homework. So now every time he has school, we come straight home and do homework. Now if only I can get him to stay like that forever. I loathe the days when I will have to force him to do anything school related. I'm just so relieved that he is excited to learn new things. He wants to know what everything is about. I love that about him. Now if only he could sit still long enough...

Forest Gump it up!

2009-09-13T13:19:00.000-07:00

Tyler, Brett, and Jer just after they finished the Half.
Navajo!
Not such a great picture of Jer, but you get the idea.
Nava, Brett, Jer, and Tyler. What awesome guys for running Top of Utah. It was all of their firsts.

So this is how it all started....Jeremy and Jake (Nava) decided they needed to lose a few lbs. and what better way to do it then run a half marathon? Of course there was a bet involved and money exchanged, but whatever it takes! Jeremy had never run or exercised a day in our married life, but he just started running one day. He trained for about 3 months and his time was 1 hr. 50 min. and 22 sec.
That's a pretty sweet time for your first run, so I'm told. He even said he could've kept running after he crossed the finish line. I was and still am so proud of him. He says he is going to run another one down here in Vegas in December with his pals and I am pushing it. I think I might participate on this one too! I have a few days to decide before training starts. I'm kind of a wuss, so I'm still not quite sure. But how awesome would that be if we did it together? HMMMMMM
Good job Jeremy! You rocked it.

Girls Get Together

2009-09-13T12:43:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love cute kids swimmin in their undies? Is that legal?
Some of the gals and some of the kids
The Tire Brigade

Staci, Me, Christi, Katie, and Ashley... Don't we all look pretty dang good for being almost 30?

Mckay just enjoying a little rope swing action.
The kids loved playing in the tires. Just not when they got hot!
Ahhhh.....a boy and his hammock. That's what summer is all about!

So the High School girls (except for Jaime) were all up in Utah for a bit of summer fun at Ashley's cabin. It was a hot day, we had cake, and the kids even swam in their "fundies" in the river. How great that we are all still friends and can get together every now and then! It's crazy to see how many kids we all have. Man, we are gettin old.

Anual Allphin Camp Out

2009-09-01T21:37:00.001-07:00

Ashton with no explanation needed.

Shelly and Me trying unsuccessfully to start a motor boat. Work it Girls!
Four wheelers rides were the best. Lauren snoozed in slumber land.
Crazy Cousins playing a matching game. And just rolling around in the dirt.
Melissa, Jill, and Angie just asking for a tip over!
Our sweet little fam out for a stroll on the wheeler.

What a fun time we all had on our yearly Allphin Kids Family Reunion. There was lots of fun to be had, good food to be eaten, horse shoes to be thrown, and four wheelers to be ridden. Most of you know that I am NOT a fan of camping, but I sucked it up and went along anyway. We all had a great time. Except for Melissa when she found the twins and their tent covered in POO!!! Yuck.
I think we learned some interesting new things about one another and still liked each other regardless. I'm still craving the roasted banana split smores. Good thing I had 3 of them! It's just too bad I have to plan the one for next year. I just might have a panic attack in the process. Seven Peaks with KFC for the day, anyone?

Talk about Temples!!!

2009-08-22T20:24:00.000-07:00

Mckay has been asked to give a little talk on Temples in Primary tomorrow. I can't believe he is old enough to participate. He has practiced reading his talk all by himself and I just know he is going to do a great job! I am so proud of him and the sweet boy he has become.

Families can be together forever when we are married for time and eternity in the temple. You can prepare to go to the temple with your family. When you turn 12, you are able to do baptisms for the dead. You can also prepare to enter the temple before you go on a mission.
Here are some ways we can all prepare to enter the temple.

1. Pray
Pray that when the time comes, you will be worthy to enter the temple.

2. Count your Blessings
Counting our blessings helps us remember all that Heavenly Father has given us.

3. Study Scriptures
Studying the scriptures is another way to learn about God’s teachings.

4. Sing Hymns
Spiritual music helps open our hearts and minds to feel the Spirit.

5. Think and Say only positive things
Heavenly Father is happy when we say nice things to others.

Heavenly Father wants all of his children to return and live with him again. By going to the temple, we are doing what He has commanded us to do. I know that if we prepare while we are young, we will be ready to enter the Temple one day.

I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Good Advice

2009-08-21T12:34:00.001-07:00

Good Advice, originally uploaded by The World Without People.

I am always looking for good advice and today I saw some quotes that I fell in love with . Here are a few of my favorites that I need to start living by.
1. "When a person shows you who they are, believe them the first time."

2. "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." -Eleanor Roosevelt

3. "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." -Plato

4. "You have two choices in life, you can choose to be happy or you can choose to be unhappy."

5. "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you mad them feel." -Maya Angelou

Do you have any favorites?

Grandpa's Little Helper

2009-08-19T20:19:00.001-07:00

We were so lucky last week to be able to stay at Grandma and Grandpa Allphin's house for a few days. It was great for the kids to spend more time with their grandparents. For those of you who don't know, Mckay's grandpa had polio as a child and so he walks differently than the rest of us. Mckay is so observant and noticed that grandpa was walking silly. So this is what he told grandpa...
Mckay: "Grandpa, let me show you how to walk."
Grandpa: "Oh, okay. How am I supposed to walk?"
Mckay: "Like this" (Mckay slowly walks across the room.)
Grandpa: "Okay, Let me try." (grandpa held onto the railing and walked a little more straight)
Mckay: "That's it grandpa, I knew you could do it!"

In Mckay's sweet little eyes, he was helping grandpa to walk right and I just love that he is so observant to his surroundings. After Jeremy and I were retold the hilarious story I asked Mckay how he thought grandpa walked. He thought about it for a minute then yells, "Like a Penguin." We all got a huge laugh out of it and I know Grandpa Allphin thought it was funny as well. What a silly little guy Mckay is.
We explained to him that when grandpa was sick, the germs attacked his muscles and that he had to learn to walk all over again. Then of course Mckay wanted to know which muscles were hurt and got decayed. I swear I can't explain one thing to him without him going off on something else all together. I love how his little mind works and that he is inquisitive about EVERYTHING!!! I am so lucky to have a little smarty pants who wants to know it all. Plus, I'm glad to know he is always watching and learning. Silly little penguin.

Little Stinker

2009-08-09T22:25:00.001-07:00

My sweet little girl Lauren has officially started throwing temper tantrums. I truly don't recall her big brother Mckay having major fits, so this is all new to me. We decided to change her nick name to Miss Piggy because she makes a high pitch squealing noise that makes you want to head for the hills. When she starts in, I want to laugh and cry out of frustration at the same time. Little Stinker. It's a good thing I love her so much because I have been tempted to sell her to the Circus. Sheesh.

You can pick your friends...and Raspberries!

2009-08-06T14:40:00.000-07:00

We have been doing so many fun things this summer and we took yet another trip up to Mt. Charleston for a little hike. There is a little canyon that opens up and a little waterfall spills forth out of the cliffs. We hoofed it up the trail and spotted some wild raspberry bushes along the way. So of course we had to stop and partake!!! We plucked fruit for half and hour and the kids loved it. Lauren was eating raspberries like it was her last meal ever. We gorged ourselves until the Heavens opened and a downpour was upon us. It was so fun to walk/run down the mountain in the rain. After safely making it back to the car, we headed over to the Lodge to further stuff our faces with their delicious pizza. We sat in the car and ate in the rain. Lovely. So good to be together!
Mayor of Raspberry Town

Mom and her favorite little girl Lulu! What an oinker. Seriously Girl!
Mom and Lu. Good thing mom stepped in a fire ant bed and got bit like a thousand times.
The Family Shot heard round the world.
Mom and the sweeties. Er-maybe not Mckay. He's kind of a stinker.

Homemade Oreo Delights

2009-07-26T11:02:00.001-07:00

Oreo Cookies, originally uploaded by Don Juan Tenorio.

I got this recipe from my good friend Kellie so I decided to share it with all of you. These are so delicious and simple to make.

Cookie:
2 boxes Betty Crocker Devil's Food Cake
4 eggs
2 cubes softened margarine
2 or more Tbls. flour
Roll into small balls and Bake @ 350 8-10 min.
Cool completely on metal rack. Makes 6 dozen single cookies/ 3 dozen oreo's

Frosting:
1 8oz package softened cream cheese
1 tsp. vanilla
3 cups (more or less) powdered sugar to taste
* Double frosting for more*
Frost one side of cookie then place another cookie on top. That's it!! ENJOY!!!

"High on the Mountain Top"

2009-07-18T20:53:00.001-07:00

Since it is Death Valley here in Vegas, we decided to try and beat the heat and head out of town. Mt. Charleston is a meager 29 miles from our front door and we couldn't wait to get up there and out of nightmare Vegas. After Jeremy was frying his face off in 110 degrees at the Lake, he wanted to cool down in the Mountains. Boy did we get cool, fast. After eating lunch at Mt. Charleston Lodge, we went on a scenic drive to the Ski Resort. All of a sudden, the skies parted, the thunder rolled, and lightening struck all in one huge force of nature. It was Awesome! The higher in elevation, the gnarlier it got and the temperature cooled off to 50 degrees. It was so delightful. The windows were rolled down, we were getting wet, but we did not care one little bit. We have decided that we are going to take a weekly drive up there and spend some quality family time together. While Jeremy, Mckay, and uncle Brian were exploring, a sleeping Lauren and I sat in the car. I was studying my Primary Lesson and reading my scriptures. I looked out the window and I got such an amazing feeling of the Spirit. I realized how lucky I was to be there with my little family in such a beautiful place that Heavenly Father created for us. Not that I didn't know it before, it was just nice to get a little affirmation. I take things for granted sometimes and it's alway good to remember where we came from and why we are here. All in all, it was a fabulous day and I enjoyed myself immensely!!!
Squeeze shot. Obviously Mckay did not want his picture taken. Too bad, so sad.
It's all fun and games until Mom sees the pictures.
"Why isn't this lift working? I want to go up."

King of the World right now.

Extreme sports start early in this here family.

Buddy the Bride

2009-07-17T10:04:00.000-07:00

I love this picture of Mckay. We were in New Harmony at Trent and Tara's house and Mckay was having a grand old time playing dress up with his cousins. He busted this little number out and I couldn't resist! Jeremy used to get tortured by his sisters and put in drag also. Like father like son?

Revamping?

2009-07-17T09:40:00.000-07:00

Let me know what ya'll think of my newest Blog design. I was up til 12:00 am trying to figure everything out. It is still a work in progress. I haven't blog forever and I am really needing to keep up on it. It has been like a journal for our family and I need to make it into a book. Keep checking up on us and leaving your sweet comments. Then I'll know I'm doing something right. Thanks a Bunch!!!

Strike, you're out!

2009-07-16T16:25:00.000-07:00

It's official. Mckay and I are serious Ballers!!! We had an awesome Mother and Son date today at the good ole bowling league. We did this last year together with our play group and we couldn't pass up having fun bowling again. I didn't actually bowl because I don't like to embarrass myself if I can help it. I truly am the world's worst bowler. It is gutter ball for me every time. I think I'll stick to the chairs. But Mckay did great and actually won his second round with a whopping score of 80! Maybe there is hope for him yet.
Lining it up just right on our trusty ramp.

Mckay and his little lady friend Lola. She is GORGEOUS!!!

My Date! What a fun day we shared together.

I'm a Yankee Doodle Dandy

2009-07-16T15:29:00.001-07:00

My Sweet Kiddos showing their Patriotism. Brings a tear to my eyes.
Mckay and those Romer kids. They're the Three Amigos.
Little precious Lulu. I can't get enough of her.

The whole Fam Damily at the Layton Parade.

I'm a Yankee Doodle Dandy, we love the 4th of July!!!! This is our favorite Holiday to celebrate. We so enjoy showing that we love this beautiful country and that we are honored to live here. We are so grateful for all those that have fought and will continue to fight for our freedom. We truly are a most blessed Nation.
Every year we eat a huge breakfast with the Allphins then head to the Layton parade and carnival. After that, we went to Grandpa Mead's house for a delicious Bar-b-Que. Later that evening we went to Jill and Nate Pickett's house for some fireworks extravaganza!!! Long live the Funkadelic!!! It's just too bad my sis in law and nephew got burned by some illegal fireworks the neighbors were displaying. Off with their heads!
All in all, it was a great 4th and we loved that we could spend the time in Utah with our wonderful friends and family. Awesome.

I thought Dinosaurs were extinct...

2009-07-16T13:39:00.001-07:00

Abby and Mckay doing what they do best. Being silly.
Is that a Dinosaur in the picture? No, it's just Mom!
Should've left them in the pin. Dang kiddos!
Mckay and Mr. Wooly. Kind of resembles Dad when he thinks he needs to grow a beard. Yuck.
We had a blast a few months ago when we were in Utah and I am just now getting to posting pictures of said fun. Mckay and I had a date and went to the Ogden Dino Park with our totally awesome friends the Romers and Reavely's. It was Mckay's first time and he was loving it. He loved digging for Dinosaur bones and digging up caterpillars, apparently. I can remember going to the Park when I was little and It brought back memories of my youth. That's pretty hard to do now that I am an old married lady. How fun to be able to take my children to go and do some of the same stuff I did growing up. What a blessing. I miss O-Town.

"This is how we do it!"

2009-06-14T15:35:00.000-07:00

Just after my first helicopter ride. I felt like I was on "The Bachelorette" being flown to some secluded spot for an awesome date. It turned out to be kind of true actually. No roses were involved however.

Posing with my new favorite past time. Jeremy needs to become a millionaire and buy me one.
The houseboat and Heli. Couldn't ask for anything sweeter.

What a fun, fun weekend. Jeremy set off for Lake Powell and deserted me and the kiddos. Bummer. However, I got bored and decided to go visit family in St. George on Friday. When I got there, I called my nieces and bribed them with some cold hard cash to babysit so I could go surprise Jeremy in Powell. I'm not usually Ms. Spontaneous, but I figured better late than never. So I hoped back in the car and drove myself into the sunset. (Wahweap I mean) I'm so glad I went. We got to stay on this AMAZING houseboat, Helicopter included. I couldn't believe our luck. I am so glad Jeremy is so nice and made friends with the owner. It was so great to kick back, soak up some sun, and spend quality time with Jeremy. Not to mention about a million other people. There was a professional wake board competition going on called Brostock. It's basically a bunch of dudes/posse who wake board or pretend to. There were about 20 houseboats lined up in a row to celebrate the weekend. I met a lot of interesting people to say the least. But we made a ton of new friends and will hopefully get invited back next time. What a blast.Me and the Captain. Just living the dream.

10 things I love about Mckay

2009-06-10T14:03:00.000-07:00

1. He is potty trained. 2. He sings Lauren I am a Child of God every night before bed. 3. He tells us he loves us at random times every day. 4. He is super smart. 5. He loves to do "Family Kiss".
6. He knows how to Google. 7. He is a Detective just like his Mom. 8. He loves his Sunbeam class and looks forward to going to church every week. 9. He has Treasures that he loves. 10. He is a sweet boy who loves life and is not afraid to learn about everything.

10 things I love about Lauren

2009-06-10T13:52:00.000-07:00

1. She wakes up with a smile and a snuggle every morning. 2. She has to put on her ladybug necklace and ankle bracelets first thing. 3. She gives the best open mouth kisses. 4. She loves to follow around big brother Mckay all day. 5. She takes really long naps. 6. She always has a smile on her face. 7. She loves to dance. 8. She is starting to sign words like baby, mom, dad, dog, wind, all done. 9. She loves to hop in the shower and pretend to soap up. 10. She never fails to make me smile.

Out on the Town

2009-06-10T13:16:00.000-07:00

We decided one evening to take the kids out and see the water show at the Bellagio down on the strip. Jeremy and I were craving Serendipity 3 for the second time that week and thought it would be a fun place to take the kiddos. I normally loathe taking the kids to eat, but we had a blast. The atmosphere there is so fun and relaxing so it was great. The music was playing so Mckay just had to dance around our table, much to the amusement of the other patrons. After stuffing our faces, we walked around the grounds a bit and waited for the show at Bellagio. Now, I love people watching and the Las Vegas strip is the perfect place for it. You see all walks of life down there.
Right when it was getting dusk, the show started. The kids loved it! Mckay and Lauren kept clapping and dancing. It was awesome.
We met a family from Brazil and Mckay started asking them if they spoke Spanish. He then counted to 20 for them in Espanol and they counted for him in Portugese. He loved it. It was so fun to meet this family and learn about their lifestyle. It was great for Mckay because they were teaching him some new lingo. Later, when we were walking back to the car, some older ladies noticed Lauren, picked her up and starting talking to her in Spanish. Mckay asked them where they were from and of course they were from Mexico. These grannies were loving on the kids and Mckay loved telling them his numbers and colors in Spanish. It was such a fun night and I just love meeting new people and finding out where they are from.
I love doing things together as a family, and we need to come up with some more fun things to do. We are really lucky to have one another and have a dad who is around a lot and can take us to do fun things. But I think I'll skip the restaurant part. It usually ends up in tears and chaos.

Mckay being his silly little self

Mama and Mckay hamming it up. Out for a stroll with Daddy. Our new friends.

7 Year Itch

2009-06-09T09:43:00.000-07:00

Our 6th Anniversary. Jeremy serenaded me with Keane at Planet Hollywood. Awesome.
"I love you. No, I love you!" Cheesy pictures are a must.
7 years and counting. Jeremy got a wild hair and decided to shave his head. Um, not so much!

I can't believe I have been married 7 years. I swear I am not old enough to be a wife and mother and be a responsible adult. Surely this is true? The time has gone by so fast it makes my head spin. In our 7 years Jeremy and I have lived in a Haunted House, lived in my Grandma's house, fixed up a bank repo slasher house, lived in Arizona, and now live in Vegas. I have suffered through 2 miscarriages, but have gotten 2 wonderful kiddos as well who we love and adore. We have gone on 2 cruises, Sun Valley, lots of vacations to Phoenix, back to Utah, and have an upcoming trip to Disneyland. We live an interesting life and have had a blast doing it.
Plus, who can honestly say their husband accidentally had an "accident" on their wife in the shower on their honeymoon? (There was a Mexican borne illness involved!) Being married to Jeremy, my life is NEVER ordinary. And I love it.
I think Heavenly Father had someone special in mind for me and he sent me Jeremy. He came into my life at just the right time. Jeremy has had to be very patient with me get to the layers underneath my tough shell. He had his work cut out for him. He saw something special in me and helped me to expand my good qualities. I'm so glad he didn't give up on me.
I am blessed to be married to him and I love him very much. He is my best friend and I love that I can tell him anything and he has to listen! We have some great memories together and I know we will have lots more. Here's to another awesome 7 years and more!

Our Little Genius

2009-05-25T14:41:00.001-07:00

For those of you that know me or read my neglected Blog, know that I totally brag about Mckay and his many educational skills. He is exceptionally smart and we are so proud of him. Lately, we have been having him learn to write. He wrote his name all by himself and he was so excited about it! I have been trying to find him a good preschool here in Vegas and have been having a tough time deciding what to do. I found a lady who teaches in her home and she wanted to meet Mckay since I was telling her about how gifted he is. She was blown away by how much he knows for how young he is. She has a daughter who is gifted and suggested I have him tested too. Sadly, they don't test kids under 7 years so we will have to wait until he is older.She told us he is reading on at least a 2nd grade level, if not older. It's crazy how smart he is. I keep saying it, but it's true! He knows all his states, most of the capitals, and now he is learning the Countries too. We ask him where a country is on the map and he points to it. It's crazy.
We were downtown the other night and met an awesome family from Brazil. I had them ask him where that was and he informs us it's in South America. Then he starts reeling off other countries in South America. They were amazed. I loved it.
I'm so happy that he loves to learn. He asked me what the black part of my eye was and I told him to Google it on the computer. He typed in Human Eye and up popped a diagram of an eye. He read and memorized all the parts and he could tell you all about your eye! I am wondering where in the heck this kid came from? We are really blessed to have him and we continue to learn new and exciting things along with him. Let's hope he keeps this thirst for knowledge forever.

This Babe is Made for Walking

2009-05-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

Lauren is such a seasoned pro in the walking department. She started walking around Mother's Day and she hasn't stopped since. She is now trying to walk down the stairs instead of crawling. Yeah right Sis, not on your little life. I'm not ready to have a fun ER visit!
She has these sweet little ankle bracelets that jingle when she walks and she has to wear them every day. She loves them. It's been a blast having her walk everywhere and not ruin the knees of all her adorable clothes. Yes! She always had to have on her ladybug necklace too. Love it.

Girls just want to have fun...and throw up?

2009-05-05T21:39:00.000-07:00

Visiting the gorgeous San Diego Temple. I was totally sick and felt like crap. Can you tell?
Ashley, Christi, and Me shoving our faces full of Gelato. MMMMMMM
Katie, Me, and Christi squeezed into the back seat. We were low riders.
Ashley, Me, Katie, Jaime, Christi, and Staci...wishing for the sun.
The Gals at Jaime's shower.

It finally happened. The BHS Gals of '98 got together for the first time since High School. That is 11 years people! Ashley, Jaime, Katie, Christi, Staci and I hopped on some planes and headed to San Diego for a little relaxer. No Kids, No Husbands, No Shortage of Shopping. And no money by the time we came home to our various destinations. It was so fun to get together and see how much our lives have changed in the last 11 years. There are 12 &1/2 kids between us all, including one set of twins. (Jaime is preggers and only counts as a half.) One new brunette (Ashley), a couple of new do's ( Katie) and Jaime has the same exact hair since High School. We all look the same, just a few more wrinkles, a few more lbs. and hopefully a few more brain cells!
We arrived Thursday afternoon and headed straight for sustenance. Food and Shopping of course! We shopped around San Diego on Friday, picked up Ashley and headed to Coronado. Beautiful!!! Too bad is was cloudy and cold though. The condo is 11 floors up and right on the beach. It was so great to wake up, look out the window and hear the wavs crashing against the beach. I could have stayed there forever.
Saturday, we went to a baby shower for Jaime and showered her with darling gifts. She is having a girl, so we needed to spoil her of course. We ate more delectable food items, shopped some more and headed out for a night on the town. There was some drama involved (we are girls of course), tears were shed, emotions ran high, but we pulled through and had a nice dinner. Or so we thought... Ashley and I decided it would be awesome to get the stomach flu/ food poisioning, throw up all night and ly in bed our whole last day of vacation. Good times. I will never be able to look at another salad and think happy thoughts again. But we still had a good time, talked about old times, and made some new memories. Sounds like a good Vacation to me.....

A little late, but worth the wait

2009-05-05T19:35:00.000-07:00

We call Lauren Lulu bug so it was fitting she got a Lady bug cake. I was going to make it, but I was too lazy so she got a special store cake instead. It was delicious.
She was not in the mood for cake. I was so planning on her digging in, but she was not having it. Too many people, too much noise, too much Birthday for her.
Her first dolly! She was so excited to open her doll. It even smelled like a new baby. How do they do it?
Dad and Lu just going for a stroll. So sweet.

I can't believe my darling little girl in one year old. This past year has flown by so fast. I can still picture Jeremy, Mckay and Me driving to Utah just so we could have the good Dr. Healy deliver her. I was being induced and I was planning on Saturday being the day. We were driving up on Wednesday and I was laying in the back seat big, fat, and pregnant. I called the Dr's office to check in and Mary (the nurse) informed me that Dr. Healy wanted to take the weekend off and could I please be at the Hospital at 7:00am the following morning and have my baby then?????? What???? I was not prepared! I still had two days to even think of getting up in the stirrups and you want me to go tomorrow? Uh, okay.
It was a surprise to everyone that we were headed up there, and I guess I needed to get a little surprise too. She is definitely worth it! Lauren has been such a delight to us. She is the smiliest, happiest, silliest little baby ever. Even though she has NO TEETH and is 13 months old, she will eat anything in sight. If she sees you with food, she wants it and she will let you know it!
She can walk, talk, and sign at least 10 words. She is following in her brothers foot steps and I hope she is going to be a little smarty pants also. She says "thank you, love you, mom, dad, and dog". Lauren loves to dance and she loves to play with her big brother. We are so blessed to have her sweet little spirit and she makes me smile all day. This year has just been great getting to see her little personality come out. I love it! We love our little bug Lauren and are so proud of her. Happy Birthday. (a month late, but whatever).

Maybe Not

2009-04-22T15:51:00.000-07:00

So Mckay and Uncle Kevin thought it would be a brilliant idea to have a swim in the lake. Mckay was loving this idea until he touched the water. He did not like it. It was Freezing. So cute.

Neglect

2009-04-09T08:14:00.001-07:00

I am horribly in need of updating the old Blog. We just had Lauren's 1st Birthday and I am in the process of downloading pics. Stay tuned....

Pet Peeves

2009-02-19T19:41:00.000-08:00

I got this tag from my friend Brian and I always think about pet peeves in my head and never write them down. Well now I have and whoever reads this post, consider yourself tagged. I want to hear what peeves you too.

1. It drives me crazy when someone texts you like 5 times, then you go to call them and finish the conversation and they don't pick up. Then you get a text from them that says, "sorry, can't talk right now." Wait pal, you just text me 10 times! How can you not talk? What were we just doing?
2. Bad Grammar. I am very particular about language. I can't stand it when people say, "we was at the store, or I ain't that tired, or their sick (it should be they're). I'm sorry, but it's like nails on a chalk board.
3. When someone has to disagree with everything you say. You are telling them something, then they correct you or argue with you. I do it sometimes, I'm sorry. Just let me say my piece and don't argue please.
4. When people chew gum like they were cows chewing cud. It is so gross. I chew gum, but quietly. This goes for Britney Spears chewing gum in EVERY interview she has. Have a mint please.
5. Is it really necessary to talk throughout the whole movie? Or to ask questions about the movie whilst watching it? You will figure it out if you would just be quiet and focus.
6. When people (names are with held) who leave empty cartons, pop cans, cereal boxes, on the counter. The garbage can is 2 steps away and serves a purpose. That also goes for leaving your cereal bowl in the sink instead of putting it in the dishwasher. It doesn't need to soak for a year, just open the door and shove it in. It's not rocket science.
7. Why is it that every time I go to Walmart, I see at least 4 people waltzing around in their pajamas? You have clothes, wear them.
8. People who are stuck in an era. Please don't wear your shoulder pad blazer ever again. The rat tail is so not happenin. The 80's/early 90's clothes were not cool. Please do not revisit. Look around you. See what people are wearing. Get rid of the clothes you had before you left on your mission. No more shark tooth necklace. Sorry.
9. When people knowingly bring their sick kids/themselves around you. I love you and want to play, but not with your germs.
10. When people answer their phones or text at restaurants. It is so rude and inconsiderate. If you are not a Doctor, your call is not important to us.

And that's about it. I'm not trying to be mean, these are just things that bug me. If you are guilty of one of these peeves ( I have been), I still love you! I know I peeve people off and sorry if I do it. But that's half the fun:)

We have lift off

2009-02-19T15:25:00.001-08:00

I should have been potty training Mckay a long time ago, but I finally accomplished it this past week. Um, it was super easy and now I feel silly that it took me this long to do it. I know if I would have pushed him and not been so lazy, it would have happened months ago. Oh well. He was doing awesome doing his #1 business, but was having problems with the other. A week later, he did # 2 and I made a huge deal of it. Then yesterday, I was putting Lauren down for a nap and he came upstairs holing his underooskies (that's what he calls his underwear). He informs me that he pooped in the potty and needed me to clean him. So I ran downstairs and sure enough there was a lurker in the pot. I couldn't believe it! He had gone in by himself, did the deed, then came to tell me about it! I was so stoked and made the biggest deal out of it. He was so happy as you can see from the picture. Of course he pooped his pants that afternoon, but whatever. At least we got a good one. Hooray for Mckay! What a little sweetheart, and what a good boy. Love you Bud

The Wise Man Built His House Upon the Rocks

2009-02-17T16:09:00.001-08:00

On our way to sunny Phoenix, we had to make the necessary pit stops. There's this awesome site off the beaten path where we decided to have our break. There was an enormous pile of rocks that we had to scale and have a photo op. Mckay climbed to the top and waited for us to catch him in action. I thought I was going to break my ankle, but I was spared that outcome. Since Jeremy looked like a Mountain Man, it was only fitting that he would cart all of us to the top of the heap. The sun was setting just right in order for us to get some cute pictures. I think they turned out adorable. But I'm definitely no "Wise Man."

The crew chillin at the top, posing for mom.

I love this picture of me and Lauren. The lighting is good and I love the blue background. We had a fun half an hour taking our break, changing bums, and snacking. I (mostly) love family road trips.

Got my truck, Got my kids, I'm ready to go

2009-02-17T11:18:00.001-08:00

Since we are selling our truck, Jeremy got it all spiffed up and washed. The kids were "helping" him and were playing in the back. Lauren is such a smiley gal and just loved messing around. I love her so much and love her gummy smile. She is always smiling, except of course when Mckay is beating her up. Mckay loves adventures and being the center of attention. They sure are silly little things. We have been spending a lot of time as a family this past weekend and I love it! We are always glad when Daddy's here. Especially the kiddos.

Singing in the Rain

2009-02-17T11:10:00.000-08:00

Oddly enough, we have been getting a lot of rain here in good old Vegas. I for one am loving it. We have spent a lot of time indoors as a family just snuggling on the couch, watching movies, and eating yummy food. It's been so great because even Jeremy could be here with us. When we were getting in the car to go run some errands, we heard this splashing noise. Before we could get to Mckay, he was drenched from puddle jumping. He was running up and down our driveway soaking himself. Of course he didn't have any rain boots on, so he was ruining his new shoes. It was so cold and he stopped all of a sudden and ran up to the door because he "was so freezing cold." I'm just glad we got some cute shots before he ran back inside. He's a funny one.

Love and Marriage

2009-02-12T21:40:00.001-08:00

"We go together like a horse and carriage." I hardly ever blog about me and Jeremy, so in honor of Valentine's Day I felt I should tell a little bit of our story...
We were set up on a blind date and we hit it off right at the first. He did think I looked like a stuck up snot, because I was dressed all cute and sassy. I thought he looked like a random skater and I was wondering who this weird kid was. Both assumptions were only partly true. We walked around the Gateway then went to dinner at Tucci's Restaurant in SLC. We started flirting really hard at dinner and that's when we realized our sense of humors were a lot alike. Jeremy is really funny and I like to think that I am too. We had a great time. Then we went for ice cream at Snelgroves and that's when I decided I wanted to see him again. When he dropped me off he had to ask me for my phone number since we were set up and he didn't have it. He still has the piece of paper I wrote it on. It's in his wallet. Love it.
He told me he'd call me, hugged me, and left. Right after he left I called Matt and Christi Mueller(that's who set us up) and left a message on their answering machine, going on and on about how great he was. I was blabbing about "How Darling" he was, and how funny he was, and what a great time I had. I really wish Christi would have kept that tape because it would have been so great to listen to it again.
So when Jeremy got home and called Christi to get the scoop, she played the message for him. I was so embarrassed! But it worked.
Jeremy was not like any guy I had ever dated so it was a little shock to everyone that I actually ended up marrying him. I mean, the kid wore baby blue pants, a yellow shirt, and black skate shoes on our first date. COME ON!!!
We dated for a few more months and then got engaged. Jeremy proposed to me at the same restaurant that we ate at on our first date. He even got the same waiter as the first time. He asked Brother Benson from his ward to come and serenade me with his violin before he got down on his knee and proposed. Of course, the whole place was staring at us and I was a little shy. But I did say yes so that was good for him.
We have now been married for six and a half years and it has been an eventful ride with plenty of ups and downs. But I am so lucky to have him!
Not only is he a great husband, but he is a wonderful dad. I know that he loves us and I never have to question that. He is hard working (and hard playing), honest, silly, loyal, playful, funny, and the list goes on. He married me despite all my many faults and he continues to love me still. Jeremy is such a great dad and he helps me out a ton with the kiddos. He has never had a problem bathing, changing, or feeding them. I am grateful that he comes from such a large family and is not scared of any of that stuff. He dives in head first and is not afraid to get a little dirty.
I am truly blessed to have him and our two sweet little babies in my life. I don't know what I did to have such great blessings, but I'm glad I do.
So, here's to my Valentine and I hope to have lots of years left with him. (Ask me that again in another six years and it might be a different story!) I love you Babe and you are great!!!! Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Seriously????

2009-02-12T13:39:00.000-08:00

So this gem of a guy is my husband. He shaved his beard and left this awesome mustache. Ummm, not so hot.

Leprechaun Bonanza

2009-02-11T22:30:00.001-08:00

Leprechaun Bonanza, originally uploaded by S.britt.

I was getting a little tired of all the Valentines Day Hub Bub, so I decided to do St. Patrick's Day early this year. My ultimate dream vacation would be to visit Ireland, so it's on my mind lately. I have always wanted to see the rolling green hills, the peat fires, and roam into a traditional Irish pub. I was also thinking of a funny memory I had while growing up in good old Ogden.
My brother's birthday is St. Patrick's Day so that day is special in our family.
For Austin's b-day, my dad decided to surprise him with a Real Life Leprechaun. No Lie.
So here we all are sitting around, when this leprechaun shows up at the door. Austin was probably 8 yrs. old and very silly. He did not believe that this guy was real. It was so funny because this guy had an Irish accent and was telling us all about the pot of gold and rainbows and what not. Austin was rolling his eyes and kept saying that he wasn't real. He was being so sassy. I know my dad was getting upset and embarrassed but it was too hard not to laugh.
Then Austin remembers the Leprechaun from my dad's work. The cat was totally out of the bag.
It was all good and fun and I wish I had the pictures of darling Mr. Leprechaun. I am still hunting for that pot of gold.

Your ♥ is a Music Box ..

2009-02-10T15:24:00.001-08:00

I was rooting around in my old hope chest the other day and I came across a little cardboard box. There was writing on the outside, but it was in German. For the life of me, I couldn't recall what it was so I opened it up and found my music box. My dad brought it back from Switzerland or Germany about 12 years ago and I think it has been in it's box for more than half that time. I was so excited to find it and put it in Laurens room. Now I never go a day without hearing it's sweet melody. Lauren loves to look at it and see the motor on the inside. I love it because every time she goes to sleep, I wind it up and we listen to it. I hold her and her blankie and she lays her sweet little head on my shoulder while we listen to part of the song. When I lay her down, no crying. I love that I can share this time with her and it is my favorite time of day. Now it is hers and hopefully she will listen to it with her daughter someday. I am so glad my dad brought it home from his travels and it is my favorite gift from him.

Sealing Day

2009-02-09T22:28:00.001-08:00

What a great day to be able to attend the Sealing of Stella Webb. We are so excited for our friends to be able to adopt this beautiful little girl. I know she is such a blessing in their lives and we are lucky to be friends with them and see the joy she has brought them. We always have so much fun whenever we see the Webbs and we are glad we live semi-close to them. Congrats guys and we love you dearly.
P.S. Please excuse the ghost of Brigham Young in the photo. I have no idea how he got there.

And That's No Bull

2009-01-26T13:53:00.001-08:00

Here I am signing my life away.

Just gettin' warmed up.
Why am I backwards? I don't think that's the way to ride one.
Me, Kristin, and Wendy...The Blonde Bombshells

My fellow moms and I get together once a month for a little moms night out. We went to a Mexican Restaurant then headed over for some country line dancing and bull riding. My brother in law didn't think I'd ride the bull so I bet him 20 bucks I would. He still needs to pay up.
I was the second in line to ride and let me tell you, I was so embarrassed. For those who know me, I get shy easily and usually don't do things like ride a bull. However, country western is in my blood, so I had to take one for the Swanson Team! It was lots of fun. The guy in charge made me ride the bull backwards. I don't know why, but I guess he could tell I didn't want to so he wanted to make me pay. When it got going, I was so scared. When I started to fall off, I was hanging on with my one hand and my leg. I was not giving up. However, since having children my muscle tone is not all there so I couldn't hold on for long. Down I went. But it was all good and fun.
Next was line dancing. They gave out lessons so you could learn the moves then you jammed out to the hits. I only danced a few since I had heels on and didn't want to break my ankle. We looked pretty silly out there. I should have worn my boots and cowboy hat. Dang.
Well it was good to get out there anyway with the girls and forget about being moms for a few hours. I'm glad I have a hubby who will watch the kids for me whenever I need him. And that's no Bull!!

Story of My Life!!!

2009-01-23T13:59:00.000-08:00

We don't live by the Rules here in Vegas. Obviously!

BoUnCe U

2009-01-23T13:49:00.000-08:00

Mckay had a blast sliding down the slide. Whoo Hoo!
Buddy climbed up the rope slide and thought he was pretty awesome.
Two are better that one. Right?
My Sweet Big Boy!

We had so much fun going to the bounce house the other day. Mckay had an absolute ball. He loves that stuff. Lauren bounced a little bit, but was having a hard day and was kind of sad. We had a blast jumping, climbing, throwing balls and goofing around. Then it was off to In-N-Out we went. I LOVE their fries and coke, but feel that their burgers are just, EH! It was fun to go with our friends to lunch. Kristin and I showed up with 6 kids and everyone was looking at us like, "Do you seriously have this many kids?" Now I know what my Mother in Law must of felt like! It was chaos to say the least. But fun.

Goofin Around with my Pal

2009-01-21T16:37:00.000-08:00

Nah Nah Nah Nah Nah! Mckay and I were having our own little play date today. Lauren was napping so we busted out the sidewalk chalk and went to town. We drew a hopscotch and took turns getting dirty in the chalk. What fun for mom to clean. We even raced on the scooter/bikes. I totally let Mckay win.

2009-01-19T14:25:00.000-08:00

"Do I look just like my dad or what? I have the Allphin upside down smile."

2009-01-17T21:37:00.000-08:00

I found this VERY TRUE video on my friend Liz's Blog. It is so my child!

Cousins who could be Twins.

2009-01-16T14:56:00.001-08:00

I love these two babies. It is so nice for Lauren to have her cousin Ashton here in Vegas and be her little friend. They are two weeks apart, yet Ashton is a brick and is much heavier than Lauren. I don't know how Courtney lugs him around all day. It is hard enough to carry Lou around. I guess it's a workout though. It's been averaging around 65-70 degrees down here and so we have been taking the kids to the park every day. Lauren crawls everywhere and tries to eat everything off the musty ground and Ashton isn't quite crawling yet, so he just sits there and watches everyone. Mckay runs around like a mad man and chases the other kids around. I am really lucky that there are parks everywhere you turn here. I am hoping it stays warm so we can be outside more. I was getting a little case of cabin fever. I'm so grateful to have Courtney, Kevin, Ashton, and Snuffy(the dog) down here so we can still have some family time. We love you guys!

Too Much!

2009-01-16T14:38:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when Uncle Nian comes to babysit. Jeremy and I came home to this disaster and I was screaming on the inside. For those of you who know me, I am kind of a neat freak. My brother in law Kevin calls me The Cup Nazi. Whenever there are empty cups on the counter or on the furniture I throw them in the dishwasher ASAP. Sometimes whilst they are drinking. I have also been known to take clothes off people and throw them in the wash when it is running. I am kind of a little bit crazy when it comes to picking up my house. I am kind of lame, I know. If only I liked to vacuum, I would do that every day. Lauren finds it necessary to pick up everything off the floor and put it in her mouth. Yuck! So here's my little gripe about cleaning up and being a mom. Enough said.

The Three Stooges are at it Again

2009-01-14T22:16:00.001-08:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

UGH!

2009-01-11T22:18:00.001-08:00

I HATE this show. I am sorry for all you fans out there, but I can not stand this show. Not only is the "tick, tick, tick" enough to give a person Turrets, but it is so freaking violent that I don't even like it in my house. So of course Jeremy and his brothers have to come to my house, eat all my food, and blast the show at the highest possible volume. ARRGHHH!!! I actually had to leave the house tonight because I was getting so annoyed. I am going to be homeless tomorrow night too because they are all coming over to annoy me again and watch the lame show. I guess I will just have to back to Golden Spoon and stuff my face a little more.

New Maid

2009-01-11T19:58:00.000-08:00

I have a new maid and he is really cheap. Plus he LOVES to clean toilets. Awesome

False Advertising

2009-01-08T14:38:00.001-08:00

Ever feel like being a mom sometimes has a "downside?" And when I ask this, I am referring to Mom Boobs. You know what I'm talking about. After nursing two babies and fluctuating sizes, my chest is a little "iffy" to say the least. Now I am not saying it's not worth it, I am just making an observation. Sometimes when I look in the mirror I wonder whose body that is starting (or rather drooping) back at me. So to remedy the situation, I donned my war gear, put on my knapsack and off to the war zone/Victoria's Secret I went. After about 1 hour and 10 bras later, I decided on one. The Miracle Bra was the winner. It lifted and separated just like advertised. So why don't I look like the girl plastered all over their ads? I brought the bra home, tried it on for Jeremy and wanted to get his opinion. He said it looked good (which of course he would say unless he wanted to get punched) but he thinks it's false advertising. I am completely reformed, pushed up and out and looking good, but alas it is not my true self. Is that a bad thing? I think not. I will use whatever force necessary to perk these puppies up. Even if it is False Advertising!

Airing Out

2009-01-07T16:09:00.001-08:00

Whilst we were in Utah, Lauren got a horrible diaper rash. I mean really bad. Jeremy gave her some orange juice and I think that was the culprit. I decided to let her air out for a bit. That is until she peed all over Grandma's carpet. Oops! Back in the diapers it was and on with the Desitin. She has since recovered.

Christmas at the Meads

2009-01-06T15:05:00.001-08:00

Here is the whole mixed Mead family
Lorraine (my dad's wife) made these darling hats and scarves for all the girls.
Our very Merry Little Christmas Family.

Lauren and Grandma Great. What a pair.

The chefs getting ready to cook up a Mexican Feast. Yum!

We had a wonderful Christmas and I am just posting a few pictures. These were on Christmas Day at my Dad's house and we had a lot of fun. Instead of the traditional Turkey Feast, we had a mexican fiesta!
It was so delicious. We opened presents and got some great loot. The kids had so much fun playing together and wrecking the house. We exchanged names with all the step siblings and it turned out great. I got some really cute things and it was fun to get to know a little bit about the siblings. We hardly see them so it was great to get together. We had a great time and we also got to spend time with my mom, brother and his family for breakfast. Then it was my dads, then it was off to the Allphin Family party at a church. Can I just say chaos? There are 11 siblings in Jeremy's family so that makes for a lot of people. We always eat delicious food, Grandpa reads the Grinch Story and the kids act in out. Costumes and all. I have pictures, but of course I haven't uploaded them yet. We had a super day and got to see all our family so that made it extra great. We are looking forward to what this New Year has to bring.

Night on the Town

2009-01-05T14:31:00.001-08:00

I am trying to have a life outside of my family. Not that I don't love them dearly because I do. But I feel it is also important to have a life of your own. I have been trying to spend some time out with friends and I am getting pretty good at it. However, every time I go out, I spend $$moola$$ and Jeremy is getting a little miffed. I have a shopping problem. I must confess that it makes me happy to hear the "Ching Ching" of the cash register going off as I load up my bags. So for one of my Resolutions, I am/Jeremy is putting me on a budget. Tragic I know!! Another Resolution is to get out more, which is what Courtney and I am doing in the photo. We went to go to a concert and when we got there, we found out the concert had been the night before. We totally missed it. Um, to say I have mom brain would be an understatement. It comes with the territory I hear.
I don't really believe in "Resolutions" because no one I know ever follows through, so I am just making a few goals for myself and my family. I won't bore you all with them, but they are a little list of things that I can do to better myself as a wife, mother, friend, daughter...Blah Blah Blah.
So, as I am out living it up, and spending money I will also be shaping myself into a better person. Is that possible? I think so. I hope you all have a Happy New Year and boost the economy so that I don't feel so guilty!

New Background

2009-01-04T14:35:00.000-08:00

So I put up a Darling new Background and then I browsed to a couple of my friends blogs and some of them had the Exact same one. So I had to change mine. Thanks alot! Happy New Year to me.

24 DaYs of Bree

2008-12-17T23:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays everyone! I got this post from Sherice and it is a Christmas Edition of getting to know Bree. I hope you enjoy some little interesting facts about yours Truly. There are so many great memories that I just didn't know what to put. Here are a few of my favorites.

1. Wrapping paper of gift bags? I am the Queen of gift bag town. However, even though I Hate wrapping presents, I try and be a good mommy for Christmas and wrap them up. A few choice words usually escape my mouth.
2. Real Tree or Artificial? Sadly, I have an artificial tree and I hate it. I have to restring the lights every year, so I might as well suck it up and get a real one from now on. I remember when my parents decided to get a fake one instead and I was DEVASTATED.
3. When do you put up your Tree? Pretty much depends. It's usually when I can put it off No longer. I am a serious procrastinator.
4. When do you take the tree down? I try to take it down New Years Day.
5. Do you like eggnog? Not so much. But Jeremy and Mckay Love it. Throw in a little Rum and it might be a different story! (just teasin)
6. Favorite Gift received as a child? HMMM, tough one. Probably when I got my first Porcelain Doll from my Grandma Mead. It was a Tradition for her to buy all the granddaughters their first doll. Also, I was super stoked when I got my first set of ski's, boots, and poles. It was in the eighties so there were lots of fluorescent colors going on! That same year I also got a radical one-piece snow suit. Same colors as above mentioned.
7. Do you have a Nativity Scene? Yes, I have been Collecting the Demadco Willow Tree set and my Grandma adds to the set every Year.
8. Hardest Person to Shop for. My Step Siblings. I don't know them well enough to know what they like. I need to work on it.
9. Easiest Person to Buy for? My Momma! We are both makeup sluts, so I know what she loves.
10. Mail or Email Christmas Card? It was the First Year I actually did mail cards. Not to mention I've been married for 6 years and I just got our first official family photos.
11. Worst Christmas Gift you received? Apparently they have all been Pretty Good because I can't think of one. Probably some ugly sweater or something like that.
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? White Christmas! It is number one on my list of many. Others are Charlie Brown Christmas, A Christmas Story, Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman, How the Grinch Stole Christmas ( the animated one.) Plus, any of the old classics. We used to watch them at my Grandmas and she would make us Popcorn and we would drink Grape Soda.
13. Have you ever Re Gifted? Sorry, but All the time.
14. Favorite things to eat at Christmas? I make Homemade Chocolates every year with my Grandma and they are DIVINE. I also love my pineapple cheese ball I always make and my aunts Pomegranate Fruit Salad.
15. Clear Lights or Colored on Tree? Colored lights for sure.
16. Clear Lights or Colored on House? I use to BEG my dad to put up lights but it only happened a few times. He let us hang colored lights in our rooms. Now that I am all grown up, I have none. My Husband is too Lazy to do it.
17. Favorite Christmas Song? Silent Night
18. Travel or Stay Home for the Holidays? Now that we live in Vegas Baby, we will be making the Trek up North. Christmas gifts and all. NIGHTMARE. Now I know how my Parents felt when we drove from Cali to Utah. It's a lot of work.
19. Can you name all Santas Reindeer? But of course.. Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donder, Blitzen. And, Rudolph the red nosed Reindeer.
20. Open presents Christmas Eve or Christmas Morning? Jammies the night before, and all the rest on Christmas Morn.
21. Most annoying thing about this time of year? The crowds, and the Multiple Family we have to visit. (It's hard having divorced parents and having to make the rounds. ) But I Love You all Nonetheless.
22. Favorite Ornament theme or color? Mine are Jewel Toned and I have these Fabulous Large Green Glass Balls that I love. And a few have been broken over the years and it makes me want to cry.
23. What do you want for Christmas? A Vacation with No kids allowed. (Hint, Hint Jeremy.)
24. What is your Favorite Christmas Memory? Listening for Santa and his Sleigh to land on the roof. Also, making Snow Forts with my brother after we opened all our presents. There are so many others, but they all involve my family and when I was younger.

So there you have it. A few random things about what I love about Christmas. I am so stoked to see all our family and friends and just let loose. Family is what it's all about and I have a great one. Even though I have mini panic attacks when it is total Chaos. But that's the fun of it I guess.

P.S. I just thought of another Favorite Memory. My brother and I made an awesome Gingerbread House and my old dog Chelsea jumped up on the counter and ate the Whole Damn Thing. Then she proceeded to throw it all up all over the carpet. Ah, Home Crap Home.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

ChRiStMaS TiMe Is HeRe

2008-12-16T20:19:00.000-08:00

Mckay loved seeing the reindeer. He had a hard time paying attention though.
Lauren was so sweet and loved seeing the lights. What a happy girl.
Please Santa. We've been extra good this year.
Ho Ho Ho
Mckay told Santa that he wants a bike and a gingerbread house for Christmas. Lauren just tugged on his beard. Mom asked Santa for a special present too.
Buddy loved riding on the carousel.
The group had so much fun. We love our Vegas Pals.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Except it's a little different here in Vegas. Even though it did snow yesterday, it's not the same as being home in Utah. Good thing we'll be up there for it. We have been doing lots of Christmas activities down here and it has been lots of fun. We went to a Christmas village and got to see Santa, ride a carousel, and wind through a forest of awesomely decorated Trees. Mckay loved it. It was a little weird that it was 62 degrees, but that's okay. We also had a Primary Pancake Party and Mckay got to see Santa yet again. Man, he's everywhere. We are looking forward to getting to Utah to enjoy a little snow, fun, and food. We hope you all have a wonderful Holiday Season and enjoy it to the fullest. God Bless.

ELF YoUrSelf

2008-12-05T23:20:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Here is our Elf Family on Speed. Happy Holidays

New Family Photos

2008-12-05T21:27:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple photos from our little photo shoot. My sis in law Courtney took these and they turned out pretty darn cute. (If I do say so myself) Mckay was being a nightmare and the light was fading fast so we had to be quick. Here are our favorites.

Random

2008-12-04T11:41:00.000-08:00

Eating treats with Grandma Rain
Mckay loved popping the ball up for dad to catch
Little LuLu just looking sweet

I have no Thanksgiving pictures, but here's a few my dad sent from when we were in Utah a few weeks ago. Lame I know. Let's just say that during Thanksgiving break, I was not taking pictures because my face was stuck in a toilet bowl. Other various parts were stuck in the toilet also, but we won't go there! It was great to be in St. George and spend time with the Allphin family. Thanks Angie for having us over. I was so sad that I missed out on all the fun stuff, but I am glad Jeremy and Mckay could have lots of fun. Good for them. We can't wait to see ya'll at Christmas!

I need a spin

2008-11-24T19:59:00.001-08:00

The loads have stacked up again. Maybe I need to jump in just to get the sickness out. So we have all had the stomach flu again. Well, so far I haven't got it too bad. Mckay got it first on Friday and is still boo-hooing around the house. Of course he woke up in the middle of the night throwing up, then all the next day. He is still not being himself. The poor thing wants to be carried around all the live long day. Lauren had the trots and is still having blowouts. Saturday night Jeremy got it and he is still down and out. I really don't think I have done more wash, cleaned up more barf and poo,changed more diapers, and been more tired in my whole life. Send me on Vacation someone please. Oh, not to mention I am taking care of Courtney's dog while they are gone and when I got there this morning the dog had pooped on the floor like 5 times! In one night! --it never ends. Hopefully we'll all be better so that we can enjoy the Thanksgiving festivities.

"Shave it Back On"

2008-11-03T20:54:00.000-08:00

Jeremy has had this crappy beard for about a month and I have been trying to get him to shave it the whole time. Well, I got my wish because he did shave it on Halloween but he turned it into a crappy mustache! Tonight when he was putting Mckay to bed, Mckay asked Jeremy where dad's beard and mustache were. Jeremy told him that he shaved it off. Mckay sat there for a minute then adorably said, "Shave it back on Dad." He liked Jeremy's beard and mustache. I think it's because he had his own little mustache for Halloween. Mckay really does say the silliest things sometimes.

Life's a SCREAM!!!!

2008-11-02T15:17:00.000-08:00

Here are a ton of Halloween pictures. I had to do another slide show because there are just too many. We have done a lot of fun things this month and I had to take pictures of everything. Halloween was a lot of fun. A few days before we went to a party with some new friends from the ward. The kids carved pumpkins, we played games, and ate lots of yummy treats. Mckay loved playing the Wii and he kept trying to hulla hoop just like Charlie and Lola(tv show) do.Lots of fun. On Halloween we took the kids to our ward's Trunk or Treat. It was nice and warm so we could eat our delicious dinner outside, then get the candy! This lady came up to me and asked me if she could take a picture of Mckay because she thought he was so cute! So sweet. Everyone loved(??) Jeremy's costume. Kevin, Courtney and Ashton came too. Mckay was a pirate and he was so excited to wear his costume. He kept saying "ARRGGHH matey" and "walk the plank". It was cute. Lauren was a sweet little flower and she was just adorable. Her costume made her darling chubby cheeks stick out even more. I just wanted to eat her up. I was nothing for Halloween. Well, I did put on Devil horns and that's it. How fitting for me and my lovely personality right now!
Jeremy on the other hand....There are no words. He was "white trash" and he really looked the part. He actually went to our ward party dressed like this. I am still embarassed about it. When we ran out of candy, he went to Walmart in his costume. He actually probably fit right in there:) I don't know how he dared to look like this in public. I am mortified. Oh well, I guess that's what Halloween is all about. Looking silly!

Pumpkin Patch Fun

2008-11-02T14:27:00.000-08:00

Mckay and I had so much fun with our play group at the Pumpkin Patch. There was a huge slide and bounce house that he loved playing on. There was a little petting zoo but I refused to let him feed the gross animals. There was a little tilt a whirl ride that I rode with him. You should have seen me trying to squeeze into this little chair, but I did and we had tons of fun. My mom was here in town so she was watching Lauren so that I could have a little mommy and me time with Mckay. Plus, it was super windy and she would have hated it. But Buddy and I had a blast anyway. Mckay got his own little pumpkin and he was so stoked to pick it out. He kept picking others up and was trying to steal them. He doesn't fall far from the tree:)
Mckay and Me on the Tilt-a-whirl ride. I tried to get him to go alone, but no deal.
Mckay's little play group. There are some way silly kids. We play a few times a week.

Anchors Away Me Boy...

2008-11-02T13:29:00.000-08:00

Since we have a new boat, I have been trying to get to the Lake with the boys whenever I feel like loading two kids in the car and packing up all sorts of paraphernalia. The weather here in Vegas has been in the 80's which is perfect for the Lake. Next week is going to start getting cold so I think my boating season has ended. Jeremy's Bro Kevin, his wife Courtney, and baby Ashton come and so does Uncle Nian. It has been really fun for Mckay and the babies have a good time too. Everyone always gets mad at me because I NEVER get in the water and wakeboard/swim or whatever. But I am deathly afraid of Sharks so I prefer to stay on land/boat:) Here are some cute pictures of all of us. It's not that I love slide shows, I just have too many cute pictures to post them all!

Tag, You're It!

2008-10-28T23:22:00.000-07:00

This is the first time I've been tagged. Is that lame that I am excited someone thought of me? My good friend Cindi tagged me and she wrote random stuff about her husband because they usually are left out sometimes. I thought I would copy her on this one. So here are 6 things about Jeremy. Love ya Babe!
Here are the rules: 1. You link back to the person who tagged you 2. Post these rules on your blog 3. Share six unimportant things about yourself 4. Tag six random people at the end of your entry 5. Let the tagged people know by leaving a comment on their blogs 6. Enjoy the results!
JeReMy AllPhIn...
1. Jeremy is a very patriotic person. His favorite holiday is 4th of July and he once let off fireworks in our Layton house. He even has a tatoo of the American Flag on the inside of his arm.(much to my dismay) :)
2. His favorite meal that I make is Shepherd's Pie and he asks me to make it all the time. It hardly ever happens because I made it while I was preggers and cooking raw meat always makes me gag.
3. Jeremy is really into extreme sports and is always trying new things. He is really good at wakeboarding and he and his brothers go whenever they can. We have wakeboard/BMX videos on at our house all the time. Yeah!
4. He really likes to listen to talk radio and he listens to it almost every night when I am trying to fall asleep. He tells me I should listen to it so I can know what's going on in the world right now. I tell him I'll just go read US Weekly.
5. In college Jeremy was the lead singer of a band up at Utah State. The band's name was American Standard. One of his mission buddies played the electric guitar. They played Rock music of course, so that must be why he told me he was a rocker on our first date. I just figured out why he told me that! Duh Bree!
6. When Jeremy was young he was in lots of plays. He performed in the King and I and he was the Kings son, Prince something or other. I really don't know how to spell it. He performed in Salt Lake City and was really good. Until it started to compete with Football apparently.
So there you go. Six random things about my great hubby Jerm!
I am going to tag....Christi M, Jaime M, Melissa G, Jenny W, Lindsay O, and Janey B! (Sorry)

I've had a hard Day

2008-10-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

How do I get my thoughts out without sounding like a whiny baby? I am having one of those days/weeks/months that just seems hard. Sure there has been lots of fun, but there have been those times where I want to light myself on fire and jump off a cliff:)
I shouldn't complain because I am happy and am truly blessed but everyone feels this way sometimes, right? I am having a hard time with Mckay who has decided he does not want to potty train, take naps, or do Anything I say. He is so sweet and I love him so much but I find myself losing my patience with him daily. I am so sick of hearing my own voice telling him NO! Don't do that! Why aren't you listening to Me? I mean he is a three year old for crying out loud, not a rocket scientist!(well, maybe one day). I can't expect him to understand everything and know Why I am asking him not to do something. I just get frustrated with him, then I get mad at myself, take it out on Jeremy and want to cry myself to sleep at night. Mckay is a good boy, just sometimes he drives me crazy.
I read something about Birth Orders and how First Borns are perfectionists, list makers, worriers, people-pleasers, critiquers, and I find that I am just like that! It is crazy to read about it and find that is exactly like you!
I worry so much about everyone else in my life that I feel like what I want or need gets shuffeled away in the deck. I do boo hoo to my friends and family, but I listen to them boo hoo too and I worry about them and think of ways to help fix their problems. It is exhausting sometimes with all the balls flying at me and I am trying to not drop a single one. I picture this when I am having a minor freak out.
How can I learn more patience, understanding, compassion? I am working on it but I have my days let me tell you. I just want to know if other people(moms) feel this way too or if I am just slowly going insane. Being a wife,mom,friend,child,sibling,therapist,maid,cook,scratching post,doormat,booger wiper is getting to me today and I just wanted to vent without anyone really having to listen.
I am so lucky to have my life and I don't want to trade it, I just needed a time out for a bit. I love my children and worry about them like crazy. I love my husband and am lucky to have one. (Especially the way I have been acting lately) Even if I want to clobber him sometimes. He helps out so much with the kids and it is wonderful. I am lucky to have such great friends that I can rely on when I am down and that I can HOORAY! to when something awesome happens. My family is great and difficult and wonderful all at the same time. I worry constantly about all the members in our family and I know that I do tend to isolate myself from them sometimes. I know a lot of them have struggles daily like me. I really need to try to be a better friend and listener to them and to my friends. I love you Guys!
Please forgive me for complaing and rambling but sometimes you gotta! I hope all of you out there are having a better day than me and if you aren't....then jump on the boo hoo train with me and let it out!!! I love you guys and am grateful to you all.