The J Five

A few pictures from our trip

2011-05-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Grandma and Grandpa Mills picked up Jessi and I at the airport in SLC so we had a chance to see some of John's family before heading to ID for the funeral. Grandma made Jessi this super cute headband. There are more pictures on our new blog thejsix.blogspot.com

new blog

2011-04-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

And then there were 6.
http://thejsix.blogspot.com/

sweet baby

2011-03-25T21:48:00.000-07:00

My awesome friend came over while the boys were at Joy School one day last week and took some pictures for me. They turned out beautiful. Jessi didn't want to sleep until the very end. Thanks Danelle!

Daddy's Girl

2011-03-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

Baseball Opening Ceremony

2011-03-12T13:43:00.000-08:00

We will be busy with baseball practice and games until the end of May. Go ORIOLES!

Happy Birthday John!

2011-03-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

John walked in the door after work......
Jakub - "Dad we got a present for you"
James - "Yeah we got you pants"

My baby girl

2011-03-10T09:52:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love dressing up my sweet baby girl everyday. It took her 2 weeks to have her first blowout . I was waiting for it so I could put her in more than one outfit a day. But it was only once. Now at 3 weeks she is finally starting to spit....now I can change her outfit more often.

Birthday Party

2011-02-27T19:01:00.000-08:00

Saturday we celebrated the twins birthday with a Lightning McQueen Party. They have been talking for weeks about wanting to have a party when grandma came to stay with us. Jakub really wanted a pinata so when grandma took them shopping they picked one out. Jakub picked a white cake mix and James picked white frosting with sprinkles. Grandma also had them pick out a toy, outfit and pj's. A package came in the mail from Grandma and Grandpa M so they opened lots of presents including some from mom and dad too.

We hung the pinata outside and let the boys all take a few swings at it with the broom stick and then we took it inside and they pulled the strings to open it. Grandma had stuffed it with candy and prizes.

We sang happy birthday and ate cupcakes before dinner. It was a perfect birthday for these 4 year olds. They were so happy to share their special day with Grandma.
Today...just one day after celebrating the twins birthday....we all had to say goodbye to Grandma. It was so good to have my mom to help out for a week. I couldn't have survived without her. She spoiled us all while she was here. My house is perfectly clean, and I wish I could say it will last. Tonight at bedtime the tears really started to flow. We Miss You Grandma. Thanks Grandpa for sharing your sweetheart with us. We love you!

Talented Friends

2011-02-26T14:17:00.000-08:00

Jessi has received some beautiful gifts.....here are a few of the blankets my friends have made. Two of these came as packages in the mail......one from Idaho and Utah. The other came from around the corner. I want to send out a big thanks to Glenda, Barbara and Kristie for making me feel so loved.

Raggedy Ann

2011-02-23T22:21:00.000-08:00

When I was two my mom made me a Raggedy Ann Doll. She found the pattern and made Jessi a Doll. I didn't know she was making it....she surprised me on Saturday night when she pulled it out of a sack she had carried onto the airplane because she didn't want it to get smashed and wrinkled.

Home

2011-02-18T20:46:00.000-08:00

I am home now and I hope to keep you all updated on the day to day of having a new baby at our house. The boys were all excited to pick us up at the hospital.

Tonight she found her thumb and when the boys did I immediately pulled it out and put the Binky in. With her I watched, smiled and took pictures for a few minutes before taking her from John and feeding her.

There is so much more to tell but I am tired and sitting on this chair is uncomfortable.

Jessi Has Finally Arrived

2011-02-16T15:28:00.000-08:00

Here's our new little angel and John's princess, who will have him wrapped around her finger.

Friends

2011-02-12T20:07:00.000-08:00

James, Jakub and I got to hang out with friends this week at Super Franks. It was a super fun birthday hang out for a super cute girl. What a blessing to have good friends.

k

38 Weeks

2011-02-07T12:38:00.000-08:00

Baby Shower

2011-01-20T21:22:00.001-08:00

My baby girl was so spoiled last night. Kristie put on the perfect baby shower. And I got a surprise gift from my in-laws. I feel so loved.

Day Trip

2011-01-15T19:31:00.001-08:00

We decided to leave the central valley fog today. We drove about 1 1/2 hours and found 30 degrees warmer weather. It was a beautiful drive and a perfect day to play at the beach. I am now 35 weeks pregnant so today was probably our last big outing as a family of 5. We are all getting excited for this baby.....well I can't say all of us. Jakub is still on the "I don't like babies" kick. He has been this way since he was 1 year old. It started with me niece Elle and he still doesn't like her or any other kid smaller than himself.

Pepto-bismol ?

2010-12-30T09:22:00.000-08:00

So I went a little crazy on the pink. But hey I deserve it after 8 years of blue.
I have been given orders to take it easy. When I do to much (OUCH) I have to slow myself down. Thanks to the Dr. I have focused on getting some scrap booking caught up. I finished the 2009 scrapbook and I would really like to get the 2010 book done before the baby comes. But what about the kitchen floor.......how long can it go without being mopped?

The boys

2010-12-26T15:12:00.000-08:00

Today is graduation day for the boys. Next Sunday J will be in Sr. Primary and the twins will be sunbeams.

Christmas Eve

2010-12-24T19:43:00.000-08:00

We had a rough start to the morning James was coughing all night and Jakub woke up with a fever so we rested all morning then drugged up the kids with Tylonal and vapor rub and were off to the movies. We saw Tangled and then went out to dinner at Texas Roadhouse. (Thanks to Johns work for paying, That was his Christmas bonus. Take your family to dinner) I love when someone else cooks, cleans up, and pays.
On the way home James started sleeping. We walked in the house and handed them all the present from Grandma S. She has been so excited for the boys to open the gifts she sent in a package last week. They were the perfect keep the boys awake gifts. Legos. A huge favorite at our house.
After an hour of playing the boys opened there new PJ's. Mario! Another favorite with 3 (make that 4) boys in the house.
John read the Christmas story and we talked about the true meaning of Christmas. James and Jakub new the story very well after acting out the play for their Joy School Program. Jakub leaned over to me before Joseph and Mary even got to Bethlehem and said "No Room, Mom, there was No Room" Then when the part about the shepherds came James told us that an Angel visited them.
After Family Prayer and before bed Jakub put out Pecan Pie and Pie crust cookies for Santa. The pie bubbled over and made a huge mess of my oven but it tastes good and the boys think Santa will like it.

Now the boys are all in bed sleeping and I am sitting here reflecting on Christmas' past. My dad left me a message this morning saying I could have the day off tomorrow and he would cover the cow milking. Christmas was the one day my brother Scott and I would wake up extra early and sneak out of the house to get to the barn and milk the cows. We always hoped we could get done and home back in bed before anyone noticed. This Christmas my brother is away from his family fighting for our freedoms. Please pray for the soldiers and their families. Be grateful. We are truly a very blessed people.

(time to play Santa!) Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

monkey

2010-12-10T20:09:00.000-08:00

James was jumping on my bed this morning and when he fell his head hit the headboard he got a huge cut. I got the bleeding stopped and called Kristie to come calm me down and confirm my fear that I needed to take him in to the Dr. I love Dr. Jones....she got us right in. James didn't cry when the nurse cleaned it out, he didn't cry when he got the shot to numb it, and he was so brave just squeezing my hand while the three staples went in.
I was super excited to pick a prize from the treasure chest and even got stickers to for being so tough. And he really wanted me to take a picture of him making a silly face before leaving the dr. office. What a kid!

New rooms

2010-12-09T15:20:00.000-08:00

We have no more toy room. It is now J's room and he is excited for the lock on his door to keep out his brothers. We put a fresh coat of paint on the walls and J now has a new desk to do homework on. The twins were still in the cribs that we had turned into toddler beds. Now they have bunk beds. It has been the new favorite toy at our house. Most often it acts as a pirate ship. Grandma S. made these super cute levi quilts to go on the twins bed.
Now it's time to get some pink on the walls and get ready for this baby girl to come. I am 31 weeks pregnant now and enjoying every kick. But I am not loving the backaches, heartburn, hip pain, numb hands, ...... I think pregnancy is harder the older you get.

Family Pictures

2010-11-30T18:58:00.000-08:00

It was FREEZING! A big thanks to Chelsie for coming to Idaho and taking pictures for us. Check out her blog for a few more .....creativeclicksbychelsie.blogspot.com

We miss you, Great Grandma

2010-11-19T19:10:00.000-08:00

I feel so blessed to have known each one of Johns Grandparents. Last Friday Grandma passed away. She has been talking about being with Grandpa for almost 9 years. She has really missed him since he died. My favorite memories are the times John and I spent in St. George with Grandma and Grandpa. I remember everynight kneeling by their bed for prayer. If it was Grandpas turn to pray Grandma also coached him on what to say just like I do with my 3 year olds now. She always made sure each of her children and grandchildren where prayed for. She had a strong testimony of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I will miss my visits with Grandma. We always shared tears when we talked. I could feel of her love for me each time we were together. She always treated me like I was one of her own.

Jay ended up with the flu on the morning of the funeral so I ended up running back and forth to be with him and with John and the funeral. The boys and I didn't make it up to the grave site so we drove up today to see. I have a picture of Jay with his dad and grandpa by in this exact spot about 8 years ago. You see when Grandpa died I was about 6 months pregnant with Jay. I remember Grandpa holding my hand after his stroke and listening to me talk about Jay and how he was going to carry on the family name and be the IV. Now here I am 6 months pregnant with a baby girl when Grandma dies.

A few pictures from Halloween

2010-11-02T21:33:00.000-07:00

Joy School

2010-10-28T13:25:00.000-07:00

Today the boys had a Halloween Program at Pre-School. James was Buzz and Jakub Woody. They love being with their friends at joy school and ask everyday if they can go.

Big Joy comes from Small Packages

2010-10-28T10:10:00.000-07:00

We have been flooded by love from Family the last few weeks. My boys have found great joy in watching for the UPS man and also the Mail man. They have gotten fish crackers, pez, flashing lights to wear around there necks, Dracula teeth, Halloween cards, and candy. Baby Jessie even got a surprise.....2 blankets and her first doll. THANKS to the Grandma's and Grandpa's for send us love from faraway this Halloween season.

Trouble

2010-10-12T16:36:00.000-07:00

Good thing I am a Mary Kay consultant, or I would be even more upset.

Jakub did actually get some mascara on his long eyelashes.

New Calling!

2010-10-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

The Sunday before Conference was our Primary Program. I teach the 5 year olds and I was excited to see them do so well. After Sacrament Meeting Bro. Pace asked John if he could talk to him. I didn't think anything of it I just hurried to the Primary Room. On my way to class after Sharing time Bro. Pace stopped me and asked if we could meet after church. "OK" Now I was feeling the pit in my stomach. Now here I sit 2 weeks later the new Primary President. I am nervous but excited. I am looking for any advice you can share with me. I need the perspective of other Presidency members, teachers, parents, ward members, anyone. What works and what doesn't?

PINK! PINK! PINK!

2010-10-05T16:18:00.000-07:00

Chabot Space and Science Center

2010-09-26T19:13:00.000-07:00

We spent Saturday morning going through the Chabot Space and Science Center located in Oakland. We started by seeing a film about astronaut training.

During our tour, J commented several times how much he loves science and wants to be an astronaut.
We think J would make a great astronaut. So would Jakub.
All three boys had a great time getting to see what it would be like to be an astronaut with some cool hands-on displays.

uplifting

2010-09-03T20:40:00.000-07:00

What did you do for FHE this week? At our house Dad cames home with a car full of boxes on Monday afternoon. A guy at work gave him Guitar Hero because he didn't play it anymore. The boys were thrilled. All 4 of them enjoyed jamming out.

So what was the spiritual lesson for FHE?

On Tuesday Joy School started. And the first house on the schedule was ours! These boys were excited to have their friends over for school. But throughout the whole day I kept trying to get Jakub to stay with the group and be a part of school. His comment was "this is not school mom" Well it might take sometime for him to get use to the idea of me being his teacher. Maybe the next 6 weeks as he travels to other houses he will get the spirit of Joy School.
I look forward to a 2 hours to myself, 2 days a week. Most of that time will be filled with Dr. appointments and hopefully some scrap booking.

1st day of 3rd grade

2010-08-27T18:52:00.000-07:00

3 weeks of playtime

2010-08-08T21:07:00.000-07:00

Jay got to ride in Grandpas car.
We spent a day visiting the Childrens Museum.
The favorite section for all the boys was Castle. They all loved dressing up and putting on plays with Grandma.

We celebrated Bin's Birthday at the pool.

We were able to have cake and ice cream with Great Grandma for her birthday too.
My siblings and spouses all got together for dinner one night. Lucky for me my baby brother and sister-in-law came with my niece that I hadn't met yet. I missed John extra that night.

We got all 10 grandkids together at the zoo. Grandma loved every second of it. We enjoyed a hospital carnival, and visiting my grandma (another great-grandma)
This is only a small glimpse of the many things we did. Thanks to everyone that made our vacation so much fun. I enjoyed all the visits I had with family and friends. I was good to go back and see everyone but I have to say it is good to be home.
This last picture shows how worn Jakub was one night. He fell to sleep on my moms tile floor.

One more thing..... to any of you out in the blogging world that haven't heard yet. #4 will be joining our family in February. We are super excited.

Jay is in Idaho!

2010-07-12T06:32:00.000-07:00

Jay has been having none stop fun this last week with Grandma and Grandpa. My mom said he was so tired on Sunday that he slept during Sacrament meeting.
Jay helped Grandpa retire a flag and put up a new one. He remembered what he learned at scout camp the week before and told Grandpa how to fold the flag, and what to do with it.

Jay got a good lesson in how to move pipe. I might have to ship him to Idaho every summer to work with Grandpa.

Grandpa doesn't just work he loves to play. Jay loved the Jeep ride with G and G.
He enjoyed the sand box, which he turned into a mud box.
Swimming.
Jay went with Grandma and a some cousins in Toy Story 3D.
They even took a few minutes to visit Great Grandma. You are a lucky boy JAY! We miss you!

Pay Day

2010-07-06T07:21:00.000-07:00

WE LOVE HAVING FAMILY VISIT! Friday we spent the day in San Francisco.

We ate at Bubba Gumps. John of course at a chicken sandwich because he is not a fish eater.
I loved getting to know our nephew...he was only a month old when we saw him last.

That night G & G S made it to our house and gave Jay a gift. He is very excited to hang up his new pictures in his room.

My dad has always told me about the pay days that come to parents. Saturday was one of my pay days. Jay was Baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

What a blessing to have his father baptize him, 2 grandpas witness, and 3 of his uncles join in for the confirmation. It was a BEAUTIFUL day! Both grandma's gave good talks and G & G M gave Jay a set of Scriptures.

When we got back to our place my mom was the camera lady for the M family photos. I think they turned out SO CUTE!

THANKS to everyone that made an effort to join us for these important event in Jay's life.
WE LOVE YOU ALL!

six flags

2010-06-21T14:13:00.001-07:00

We all loved six flags. It was perfect weather in the high 60's. The lines were short and the boys for the most part behaved.
I convinced J to go on the roller-coaster with me. He was not very happy about it and once we started he was freaking out. John and I were hoping to ride a few big rides with J but after that it was kids rides only.

Harold the Helicopter
Waiting to ride Tomas
Swings

There were so many kids rides and they really were fun.

The shows were so worth going to, we saw the killer whale, the dophins, the sea lions, and the tiger show.

The highlight of the day was the shark exhibit. We went around the through the tank 5 times.

Mario Party

2010-06-05T15:42:00.000-07:00

These are not as cute as Paige's thanks to here instruction and encouragement I made them to the best of my ability. THANKS PAIGE!
I am so glad I captured this picture right after putting these mustaches on the boys. Jay kept his on almost the whole party but the twins took theirs of after 5 minutes.
We started out the party making ice cream. The boys discovered that the easiest way to shake the bag was to jump on the tramp. Eli ended up throwing his back on the grounds to shake it up. Bad idea....he ended up with salty ice cream.

Eli ended up using his mustache as tape to hold his mouth shut.
Adam wore his mustache 2nd longest.
Present Time! Jay got some great gifts. THANKS EVERYONE!
Mario Bingo was a big hit. I learned a lot but still can't remember all the caractors names.

Big Birthday

2010-06-04T21:24:00.000-07:00

I went to Walmart for the 3rd time in 7 days and because I didn't want to have to go back for a 4th time I picked up the site to store package that came in. I left it in the van for one whole day then I couldn't take it any more. So we gave J his first birthday gift a few days early. He was not super excited like I was. I think he will really like to ride his bike once he gets the hang of it. We have been out a few times this week but he is just not catching on. He is so nervous.
He got his card from Grandma S so we went to Walmart again. See I did end up there 4 times in 8 days. J picked out a scooter and a few other things with his money. I thought well maybe the scooter will help with the balance. We will just have to wait and see I guess.
J was very excited to make his own birthday cupcakes. He measured and put in all the ingredients.
Then the best part....he licked the bowl.
When dad got home from work the first thing he wanted was to open presents. He got a scout handbook.
And super Mario Galaxy 2. Boy this kids is spoiled.
And what should appear in the mail but another Grandma card. And guess what came in the card..... a gift card for WALMART.
Then it was dinner time. Guess what my boy wanted for birthday dinner. Dad's mashed potatoes and mom's brown gravy. So I opened the lid to the crockpot that had be cooking a wonderful roast, and we ate.
Dinner time is happy time.Happy Birthday To My Boy!

Oakland Zoo

2010-05-22T17:11:00.000-07:00

Jay - "I want to be an otter"
Mom - "you do like the water"
Jay - "But I really want to be an otter"

He was seriously sad because he wanted to be an otter.
Jay has been wanting to make a mario hat. We picked up a bunch of red hats and felt at Micheals......we are going to make them for the guests at his birthday party. (stay tuned only 2 weeks) We made 1 and Jay hasn't taken it off for days.
I love giraffes!

The twins were barely tall enough to ride, and Jay was pushing the to big limit.

Play Dough

2010-05-13T11:13:00.000-07:00

It is amazing what a few simple ingredients and do.

2 cups water
2 cups flour
1 cup salt
4 t cream of tarter
2 T oil
food coloring

keep mixing until it makes a ball

Besides the "yay, thanks mom" they haven't made a peep. They are in the play dough zone!While they are busy making this mess, I will run upstairs and clean up the popcorn off the play room floor that is left over from Wednesday Movie Night.

Backyard Fun!

2010-05-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

Jay's school Program

2010-05-07T18:40:00.001-07:00

This is Jay's teacher. She has help him grow leaps and bounds in just a few short months. She has been just what he needed to make this transition easier.
Here is Jay and his friend Cristian.
Jay loves music and anytime he gets a chance to show off he is in Heaven.
He is a ham. And we love him!

yum and fun

2010-04-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Nothing tastes better than whole wheat bread fresh from the oven.... or is there....

I took part of the dough and made cinnamon rolls....
And breadsticks.
Yesterday, we walked to the park and played in the water! It was a beautiful day. I think we are all going to love Summer Days in our new neighborhood. I might just spend everyday sitting in the shade of palm trees while the boys run in the spraying water.

Spring Break comes to an end.....

2010-04-11T17:48:00.000-07:00

Friday Grandma and Jay went to the movie and played at the arcade.
While at the mall Taylor wanted to pick out earrings with her mom. But Karen told her she couldn't have earrings until her ears were pierced. She excitedly got in the chair and hugged the bear.

As you can see she was not a happy camper after it was over.
But a sucker stopped the tears and she was anxious to call her dad and tell him.
After a morning at the mall we spent a few hours in the back yard in the pool. It was in the high seventies which broke my rule of no swimming unless it is 80 but hey we had company, right?
We got the kids in dry clothes and headed for the park. We had great weather for all of our out door activities this week.
It turned a bit colder on Saturday, but we didn't mind, it was shopping day for the girls. I had a fabulous day with my mom, sister and niece. We spent most of the day crammed in a dressing room having a great time.
After the plane left today we needed a fun family activity.....we talked about baptism and made Jay a chain to count down the days. 83 DAYS and both sets of Grandparents will be back in California.
Thanks to all our visitors this week. And to those that stayed behind. We miss you. We love you.

Round 2 of visitors

2010-04-08T21:42:00.000-07:00

Grandma and Grandpa M. left this morning just before the boys and I drove to the airport to pick up Grandma S., Aunt Karen, and Taylor. The boys and I enjoyed another day in San Francisco. I am feeling a lot more confident in driving. (Thanks to my Father in Law for being an awesome navigator Tuesday and Wednesday) Today I only had to turn around twice after getting on the wrong freeway. But even with the mix ups I was calm. I am super excited to spend the next two days with my mom, sister, and niece. I have a feeling next week is going to be hard after 7 days of family here. I am going to try not to think about it and just enjoy the time I have.

Muir Woods & Muir Beach

2010-04-07T21:32:00.001-07:00

Our time with Grandma and Grandpa went to fast. John thinks I take to many pictures but I always look back and wish I had more. Thanks for coming and spending a few days with us. We love you so much!

If your going to San Francisco.....

2010-04-06T21:28:00.000-07:00

The boys and I had a great time with Grandma and Grandpa today.

We ate at Bubba Gumps....

We had an awesome view from our table.....The sky was blue and it was in the 60's.....
more adventures tomorrow........

Happy Day!

2010-04-02T21:19:00.000-07:00

Today was the Primary Easter Egg Hunt. Jakub picked up 3 eggs, Jay stuck to the 10 egg limit, and James picked up 17 eggs. Guess What the Easter Bunny left at my door today? A Kitchen Aid Professional 600 Series Mixer! It has 14 cups Flour Power. If you hear noise and yummy smells coming from my house it will be my Gift from Santa (Wheat Grinder) and Gift from Easter Bunny (Kitchen Aid) working together to make Delicious Bread.

Jay told me "It is not from the Easter Bunny, I saw the UPS man."
Jakub said "Mom you better tell the Easter Bunny thanks."
James didn't even notice.

Coloring Easter Eggs

2010-04-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

First off someone needs to give me a good homemade pizza recipe. I am not a good pizza maker. HELP. The boys enjoyed it, as you can see on Jay's messy face, but they will eat anything if pepperoni is on it.

I have 2 boys screaming at each other. I should blog when they are sleeping but I have some many other things to do. I hope you enjoy the pictures. We are all happy and healthy. Until next time.....I love you all!

SWEET!

2010-03-27T21:56:00.000-07:00

Jelly Belly Factory!

Oakland Temple!

I love Adventures!

Soccer Camp

2010-03-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

The Journey Christian Church put on a soccer camp this last week. It was Monday - Friday 2 1/2 hours after school each day . Jay had an awesome coach for the week. His name was Tristin. He is a student at a college back East. Several college students bought their own plane tickets and flew out here during their spring break to teach kids soccer. What a great program.

One day while Jay was playing soccer we went to the grocery store. They have these carts that have a tv screen inside so the kids can watch cartoons. It didn't completely eliminate the fighting.
Casey and Jay became good friend over the week. On last day there were trying to out eat each other at the hot dog cookout. I made Jay stop at 5.
This is Katelyn and Jay. They were not on the same team this week but there are in Primary together.

John's 35th Birthday

2010-03-16T16:24:00.000-07:00

When John got home from work we fed the boys dinner. Jay lite the candle, and we all sang happy birthday.
John loves pistachio cake.

Jakub loves the frosting. After cake John read the boys 3 stories. They get to pick 1 story each night and they lay on the bed with dad for story time. While they were reading. I went to Applebee's and picked up dinner for us. When I got home the boys were in bed. We ate dinner than had more cake.

Dino-Mite Party

2010-03-06T20:21:00.000-08:00

Today was the big P-A-R-T-Y! The boys looked great in their new shirts. Happy Jakub and Silly James have been talking about the birthday party for weeks. After Brooklyn's Party last month they wanted a "Tinker Bell Birthday" I convinced them to go for Dinosaurs. Jakub has been on board but James changed his toon from Tinker Bell to Thomas. I was not going to have 2 themes (I know mean mom).
When the guests arrived we did the dino dance, colored and played stick the dino head on the fossil. Then it was time for cake, that is after all why the kids came to this party RIGHT? The cupcakes turned out cute. I made orange frosting put dinos on top. James and Jakub got 3 cupcakes each with a dino candle on each one.
After cake we watched dino eggs grow into dinosaurs and had a "Ten little Dinosaurs" story by John. Some kids listened and some just watched out the window.

During present time I tried to get pictures of the kids who gave James and Jakub the gifts. This proved to be almost impossible. This is probably the best one because Danelle helped pose the boys and I clicked fast.
Mostly the boys wanted to open and play with the presents not have their picture taken.

We had cute 5 girls at the party and 3 boys plus James and Jakub. We had the usual ups and downs as you would expect from ten 2 and 3 year olds.
The boys got some great gifts.
What is better than opening presents? Playing with the toys.
The boys had so much fun with all the gifts they got. John and Jay got in on the fun too.

Wow! I survived 3 years with twins. We have lived in 3 different states in their life. Never a dull moment in the home of the J Five! The Adventures Continue.....

I want to say a very special thank you to the moms that came with their kids today. This is our first birthday away from family and I have to admit I have really been struggling. My boys have never had a birthday party without Grandmas', Grandpas', Aunts', Uncles', and Cousins'. Today was a very special day, I felt supported and loved. THANKS!

Celebrating!

2010-02-28T18:03:00.000-08:00

Today after Church we had mashed potatoes that I made from the gleaned potatoes I canned last fall. I also made roast and carrots. YUMMY! I am so grateful to my mom for teaching me how to cook. As much as I miss Sunday dinners at Mom and Dad's in Idaho, I am glad I can cook the same meal.....Right down to the Idaho Potatoes.

After dinner the twins opened presents.
Jay gave them bubble guns so we ran quickly to the yard to try them out. It is a beautiful 65 degrees today...perfect for bubble blowing.
Then we went for a drive to see the wind mills.

Nothing better then Sunday Afternoon with my 4 favorite guys.

Let the fun begin

2010-02-26T20:19:00.000-08:00

The birthday fun has began......James and Jakub received there birthday cards from both sets of Grandparents.
From Grandma and Grandpa M.
And From Grandma and Grandpa S. Jakub pulled the sponge nose right off the dog.

Today I took them to Walmart and Target and helped them shop! I told the boys on the way to Walmart that we were going to use the gift cards to get scooters, they were both cheering the whole way. We found some way cute new swim suits and then it was to the toys section.

I had a few more items to pick up the the boys were very patient... SURPRISINGLY.
Once we got to the car I took the scooters out of the boxes because they wanted to hold them in their laps. They left the scooters and happily marched into Target to get some new shoes. When we got home they were so excited to try out the scooters.

Jakub picked up quick on what to do.
James mostly just put his feet on either side and walked his scooter.
This is the side of our house, there is a big side walk all the way around our corner lot.

Here is a close up of the shoes. Before baths I had the boys try on there swimsuit. They wanted to wear them in the tub.

Thanks Grandma's and Grandpa's we love you and miss you.

Half Moon Bay

2010-02-16T08:28:00.000-08:00

We had a great Presidents day at the beach. Jay ran straight for the water and we had to drag him out when it was time to leave.
James sat right down in the sand and started digging.
Jakub changed into his shorts and played in the mud.It was a beautiful day. 65 degrees. Jay ended up taking his sweater off and swimming in the cold water.
Jame would put his foot up to the water edge and then run if it got to close.
Here are my 4 favorite guys.

From the Mailbox

2010-02-13T20:12:00.000-08:00

It was a happy Mail Day. No Bills for me. And even better than that, the boys got cards from Grandma and Grandpa. They were so excited to open their Valentines Cards and find a $1 bill.

4th Week in California

2010-01-24T19:10:00.000-08:00

I am getting in the routine of making Sunday Dinner Again. I had 2 years off when we lived in Idaho. We always went to my parents for dinner. Here are the boys sitting down to Sunday dinner. My mom and Aunt Ina bought us new plates for a house warming gift before they left. I love my new square green plates!
After dinner we took a walk to see our "big wide world" Thanks to my dad for teaching Jay to appreciate the beautiful world we live in. Every morning when I walk J to school he says "Mom on the way home can we sit on the bench and look at the big wide world"
Jay's teeth are really coming in. And he still loves his bubble gum...check out that wad in his cheek.
Last night before baths the boys in the house all got buzz's. I love the line up 4 heads = 4 buzzes. It made getting ready for church this morning supper easy.
I have never had to do yard work in January, but this week between rain storms I did get out and do some weeding. Until next week....I love you all and miss you very much!

Muir Woods

2010-01-18T19:04:00.000-08:00

What a great "Adventure!" It rained during the drive. But we didn't have rain at the Naional Monument just big drops of water coming of the redwoods. When we drove down the the beach the wind was blowing so hard and the waves were HUGE! It was amazing. I love California!

the new table and chairs are here :)

2010-01-12T16:50:00.001-08:00

walking to school

2010-01-12T09:31:00.000-08:00

I have really enjoyed walking with J to school every morning. Today we saw some blue sky but by the time I got home the clouds filled back in. I'm glad I got a picture of it.

Here is our front porch.We walk on sidewalk.

Trail by the creek.Across the bridge.
And within 10minute we are at J's school.

A few pictures of the house

2010-01-09T20:05:00.000-08:00

Front entry and Front room
Looking from the Front door down the hall to the kitchen/great room. The 1/2 bathroom is the door frame you see to the right.
1/2 bath on the main floor and then the 2 full baths are upstairs with the 4 bedrooms.
Boys Bathroom
Master Bathroom

This weekends adventure was to the mall. John and Jay (by the way he has another J in his class and he wants to be Jay now) went to see The chipmunks. James, Jakub and I met them at when it was over. We went on the carousel and played at the arcade. Then we went to dinner at Applebee's. It was a close to home adventure because John is on call for work this week. He hasn't ever gotten any calls but he has to be by within 20 minutes of his phone just in case. When we got home all the boys went in the tub. James and Jakub in our bathroom and Jay in the boys bathroom.

We are without a stovetop still the one delivered this week was a 36 in and we need 30 in. The new one will be here next week. The oven smells like burning plastic when I cook, so right now we are just using the micro wave and crock pot to cook. Hence the trip to Applebees was much needed. Dining furniture was ordered today and hopefully next week we can all sit together for a meal. The card table with only 4 chairs is not working to well for the 5 of us.

We are here!

2010-01-04T21:16:00.001-08:00

We left Idaho on Dec 26th at 6am....it was COLD! It was so good to have my mom and Aunt Ina with me. I felt so bad for my mom she was not feeling good the first day on the road, Ina had to stop before we even got out of Utah so mom could throw up. We made it to Reno and stayed there for the night. The boys loved playing in the pool at the hotel. On Sunday we ventured out into the snow....it wasn't much but everyone was buying chains for there cars so after hearing that chains were required to go over donner summit we stopped and picked some up. With 3 boys in the van mom, Ina and I worked to get the chains on. What an adventure! Before leaving Truckee we visited the donner museum then drove down by the lake to see where my mom and Ina lived when they were kids.

When we got down the mountain we were in warm weather almost instantly. We stopped to have lunch and everyone was walking around in coats. We ate lunch outside. It was 55 degrees and we were loving it.

It could never repay my mom and Ina for everything they did for us in just a few days. My house went from boxes everywhere to mostly organized before they left on New Years Eve.

It was so hard to say good bye! J was not a happy camper, but is learning to accept the fact that phone calls is all we have with Grandma right now. I feel blessed that the boys and I had the last 3 months to spend in my parents home. And we had the last 2 years living so close. My kids pretty much saw there grandparents everyday for 2 years. That is time we will always cherish. We miss all the family we left in Idaho and Utah! Thank to all of you for your love and support!

On New Years Day we took a drive to explore our surroundings. We drove up and around the farm land. I am so happy to be around the livestock and fields. It feels like home, just a few hundred miles away. I am still trying to get use to the palm trees.
The boys loved playing at the park. You would not believe the beautiful area we live in. Our yard is SO SMALL. (It took me longer to start the lawn mower than it took to make the 3 passes to cut the grass. And it felt really weird to be out there on Dec 31st starting the lawn mower.) Anyway we have several parks within walking distance from our house. We have been to several now in our first week here and they are all different. I have never played at the park on New Years Day. It way 60 degrees and wonderful!

On Saturday we got our new couches. I have waited almost 11 years for new furniture. I can't wait to get my new dining set ordered. All we have right now to eat on is a card table and chairs. There are 5 of us and 4 chairs. We better get going on that!

On Sunday I made our first Sunday Dinner in our new house. It was so great to walk into the house after church and smell the Meatloaf. YUMMY!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T21:41:00.000-08:00

The boys got new jammies from Grandma & Grandpa.The twins love having there own buzz and woody.
Now we have 3 woody's, 3 buzzes and 3 toy story remote control cars.
Jakub walked up to Grandma and said "Merry Christmas (pause) to me"
I love baby Elle! I am going to miss her so much!
We missed John tonight. I need to get one more boy to sleep then play Santa! Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night!

FUN! FUN! FUN!

2009-12-16T09:11:00.000-08:00

John came home for the last time before the big move. Faraway Grandma picked him up at the airport and brought him up for J's Christmas piano recital on Friday night. J did a wonderful job playing his "Joy to the World" song. We are really going to miss JoRene. She has been a great teacher for J. I hope we can find another good one when we get to California.
On Saturday we attended the annual Little Star Party that Great Grandma has every Christmas Season. The weather was bad but we made it to the party just in time for the little star story. Saturday night we celebrated Christmas at Grandma and Grandpas. James and Jakub got a tomas the train set,a tent and Church outfits. J got a DS game and a church outfit. They were all very happy.
Thanks Grandma and Grandpa! WE LOVE YOU!
Monday we took J for a check up with the Urologist. He recommended we find a good Pediatrician in California and told us about the Children's Hospital in Fresno. I am nervous about changing Dr's but it is part of the moving process. Dr. Nelson has been so good with J. He pushed the testing and surgery to remove J's kidney. What a blessing it has been to have him keeping a close eye on J for over 2 years now.
We stopped at Temple Square before leaving SLC to show the boys around the visitor centers. What a great spirit! John and I were married in this temple almost 11 years ago. What a blessing it is to be an Eternal Family. I love my Savior Jesus Christ. I know He died for me and He lives today. When we pray, He hears and answers us. My testimony has been strengthened through this process of taking the job in California and moving forward with getting our family under the same roof again. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the only True Church on the earth today. My your Holiday Season be full of His Love. I love you all!

Baby Shower

2009-12-10T09:09:00.000-08:00

My Baby Brother and Sister in Law are not due to have their first until March but I really wanted to have a shower before I moved so we did. We met at Iggy's and had a great time.
I made this really cute diaper cake. When J saw it he said. "Oh man, Mom why can't you make a really cake that big for me"
The fried cheese cake was so yummy.
Here are all us girls in the family. When the baby girl comes in March we will to totally even with boys and girls.

Dear Santa.....

2009-12-06T20:15:00.000-08:00

Someone help. I got a new camera and I never had a problem with my old one, putting pictures from the memory card to the blog. How do I rotate this picture?

We went to the Library to see Santa. This year Jakub was nervous and James not so much. (Just opposite of last year)
J could not think of anything when Santa asked J what he wanted for Christmas. But then he sat down and wrote a letter.....
Dear Santa I have been very good. I would like a new video game
.

(that message was all on one line, but there was not room for the period on that line so he put it to the next)

John came home for Thanksgiving

2009-12-02T07:22:00.000-08:00

John left for California in September. It was so great to having him home for a few days at Thansgiving. The boys hadn't seen him for over 10 weeks. Of course the boys went to bed without a fight for Dad. I have struggled with bedtime and am very excited to get moved so I don't have to do it alone anymore.

Grandpa and dad hung Christmas lights, while Grandma and the boys made a snowman. We walked down the street to a neighbors house that is decked out with lights. We ended up down there several nights during our stay.

The whole family got together for FHE on Saturday. We had a great time seeing the new baby cousins and making gingerbread houses.
On Sunday we said good bye again but John will be back in a few weeks for a family Christmas party and then we will be moving down after Christmas. YAY!

Remind me never to make sugar cookies again.

2009-11-23T12:03:00.000-08:00

I attempted to make turkey sugar cookies with the boys. I am so glad I did it with my mom and sister or I wouldn't have survived. The boys and Taylor had a great time but it took a long time and what a mess. What made it even worse was James made a mess when the flour and then peed in it. He has decided he doesn't like clothes and has been potty training himself. For the most part he doesn't have accidents when it comes to peeing. But pooping is another story. I will spare you the details. Anyway.......Gotta run John comes home for Thanksgiving in 54 hours. I haven't seen him for 32 days and the kids haven't seen him since Sept 14th. He is closing on the house in California next week....On Dec 26th the boys and I will move out to California. My mom and Aunt Ina have offered to come make the drive with us. I am very excited to have them with me for a few days to get us settled.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T21:12:00.000-07:00

J started carving his pumpkin this afternoon but Grandma and James ended up finishing it.
James was having a great day until I put the costume on him then he screamed. Grandpa saved him and took it off.

Jakub thought it was fun to have Grandpa be a dog too.
When the girls came over I got a picture. James was at least touching the costume at this point.

Finally I was able to get it on and he wore it the rest of the night.

Now if we could just settle down from the sugar rush......

I love weekends

2009-10-18T20:57:00.000-07:00

On Friday before Far Away Grandma got home from School I took pictures of the boys in the back yard.

At 3 I left with my friend Ang for the cabin. I got all caught up on my scrapbook and I really enjoyed time with my friends that I only see every 6 months.

All most perfect weekend

2009-10-11T19:05:00.000-07:00

We had a baby shower for Megan on Saturday. It was so much fun to have all the girls together. After the shower we went to the corn maze. My boys had a blast. JOHN.....WE MISSED YOU!

ALCATRAZ

2009-10-06T12:37:00.000-07:00

John picked me up at the airport in Oakland on Sunday, then we drove out the San Francisco for the afternoon.

We took a boat out to alcatraz. You can see the golden gate bridge.

My favorite part was probably just walking around the beautiful island holding John's hand. It was really great to be together and just visit with out the phone and 600 miles between us.

wishing, hoping, thinking, praying

2009-09-25T13:44:00.000-07:00

We are down to 7 more sleeps in our house. We offered on a house in Cali but we were not picked, so we are still looking.
The boys and I are packing and trying to have a little fun too.
It has been fun having web cam so we can talk to John in the evenings. We try to have family prayer together. The family hug has proved to be a challenge, but the boys get a kick out of John trying to hug them through the computer.

The walls are bare, but it is hard to get to depressed with these to silly monkeys always making me laugh. Now that the dolls have been packed up the boys think this is a fun place to climb in.

James gave up on helping me pack or rather empty boxes....I found him a few minutes later on the bottom stair sleeping.

Morning at the Park

2009-09-10T11:51:00.000-07:00

We met Cami and Shayden at the park to play for a few hours.
Cami and I tried to get 3 two year olds to stand together for a picture. IMPOSSIBLE!
Jakub was the only one to say cheese.
So I had to get a picture of them throwing wood chips onto the slide.

There was water in the cutter just outside the park gate. The boys started by throwing sticks and rocks in the water. It wasn't long before James and Jakub were head to toe wet and having the time of there lives.
Oh to be 2 again!

Hand me Downs

2009-08-31T20:00:00.000-07:00

Paige---Thanks for the box of clothes. James and Jakub are loving the new pj's the best.

J's 1st day of 2nd grade

2009-08-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

House for Sale!

2009-08-20T20:44:00.000-07:00

While I was in Island Park enjoying time with the in-law John was home working. He called me one afternoon and said "how would you like to move to California" I responded with the usual, "sounds good to me" I have been saying that for years since John started working with this company. I don't think I ever thought an offer would actually come. Well it turns out they didn't just offer the job to anyone...they wanted my husband. That's right, no interview just an offer. I am so proud of him. This is such a great opportunity for him to advance. So today the papers were signed and he starts work Sept 21st. CRAZY! So the house is on the market. Anyone want to buy a house....ANYONE!?!

Island Park

2009-08-04T07:45:00.000-07:00

We stopped in Idaho Falls on the way.....We took a drive to Virgina City and Nevada city Montana....
Close Grandpa panned for gold....

My family went home on Sunday....they took John home with them so he could go back to work.... On Monday we started hanging out with Far-Away Grandma and Grandpa. The kids all loved the hammocks...
The four wheelers didn't get much of a brake....at one point Megan and I left Grandma with our six boys and took a ride. It was so much fun to be out in the woods with the wind in my hair.
J got to float the river with Blake, Tanner and Grandpa.
The weather was perfect and I have had a hard time adjusting back to the heat.

Reunion!

2009-07-18T16:37:00.001-07:00

I planned this reunion and I am going to do it every year because it was so much fun.

We shared memories, sang my grandpa's songs, ate lunch, bidded on a silent auction, talked, laughed.....ect.
The boys even napped under the tree.

I am so grateful for my family. I LOVE YOU ALL!

Water Fun

2009-07-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

We had a fun water party with a few cousins in our back yard!
We had Grandma's pool
Grandma's slip n slid
And Taylor's Pool.
I love to see my boys happy.
My lilies are blooming and they are beautiful.

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T20:51:00.000-07:00

J and I kicked off the celebration last night when we went to the fireworks in Logan. It was so much fun to have a few hours of Mother-Son time. John stayed home with the twins.
At 12 today we attended the HUGE Dayton Parade. We showed up 10 minutes before it started and had front row seats. It lasted 15 minutes and J walked away with 200 pieces of candy. He was loving it.
After the parade we had hamburgers and hotdogs at Grandma's then took the twins home for naps. J went back out the the celebration with Grandma and caught a fish in the pond, then slid on the slip n slide.

At 6 we went to Logan to watch the old cars cruise main. J let me pull out his tooth. It is a honor the be the only one he will let touch his loose teeth. Our neighbors come down to watch with us....James and Jakub were very excited to have their friend Shayden there to watch the cars with.
I want to make a big shout out the all the men and women fighting for my freedoms. And also to their families that sacrifice so much. I am proud to be an American.

Nap Time Challange

2009-06-26T13:56:00.000-07:00

I put the boys down for naps at 12:30. After putting them back in their room 20 times in 10 minutes. I sat by the door and closed it everytime they tried to open it for 45 minutes. 2 hours later I can still here someone making noise. I walk in to find James on the floor sleeping and Jakub on the changing table which is now used as storage. All baskets have been emptied on the floor.
I hope my peace in the afternoon's is not over. I need the boys to nap. Oh how I miss the days just a few weeks ago when I could lay them down in their cribs at 12 and go get them out at 3.

And the award goes to.....

2009-06-20T21:18:00.000-07:00

Faraway Grandma! She took the time this week to watch our 3 crazy boys so John and I could get some much needed R and R.
After a few days without kids....we got back in the groove slowly by spending a few extra days at Grandma and Grandpa's with the boys.
On Friday Grandma went with us to the Base to see the planes and then to Union Station to see the trains. Yes that's right it was a day of TRAINS, PLANES, AND AUTOMOBILES!
Thanks again Grandma! We love you!

Family Photos

2009-06-02T11:01:00.000-07:00

Chelsie met us at Willow Park on Saturday Morning.....check out her blog to see some of the great pictures she took for us.
http://creativeclicksbychelsie.blogspot.com/

SUNDAY WITH THE FAMILY

2009-05-24T19:18:00.000-07:00

Kurt joined our family when Charlie and him were Seniors in High School. Today was the first time in years that we have all been home together. Kurt has been serving with the Navy as a Medic. He has been to Iraq twice. He walked into the house today in full uniform. What a Hero. He is one of the men I pay tribute to this Memorial Weekend. Scott was the other man at the house today that I honor as a hero today. He was just given the job of commander over his company. Scott amazes me....he can be joking and playing as I remember him then with the click of the phone opening he changes to army mode.
After countless war stories, Kurt and Dad took up on their favorite pastime "political discussions" There were years of catching up and when I left the house it was still going.
Grandma got all the grandkids new shirts. Jakub calls every flag..."grandpa's flag". He was very excited to have a grandpa flag shirt. It was a challenge of course to get all 9 kids to sit for a quick picture.

T-Ball

2009-05-14T17:07:00.000-07:00

J missed the cut off to play baseball by 4 days. He is the biggest kid on the T-ball field and very bored. I should have just signed him up for the real game. I have been tossing him the ball and he can hit it even with my bad pitches. I feel like the mom job just keeps throwing me more curves......and how do you mom's out there keep up with all the activities? J has piano on Monday, T-ball practice on Tuesday, and a game on Thursday. Then there is homework every night. Maybe it will be easier when school is out!

New Niece

2009-04-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

Baby Emy is here!

Mayonnaise Jar and 2 Pepsi's

2009-04-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours
in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and the 2
Pepsi's.

A professor stood before his Philosophy 201 class and had some items
in front of him.

When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty
mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls.

He then asked the students if the jar was full.

They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the
jar He shook the jar lightly.

The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls.

He then asked the students again if the jar was full.

They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar.

Of course, the sand filled up everything else.

He asked once more if the jar was full.

The students responded with a unanimous 'yes.'

The professor then produced two Pepsi's from under the table and
poured the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty
space between the sand.

The students laughed.

'Now,' said the professor as the laughter subsided, 'I want you to
recognize that this jar represents your life.

The golf balls are the important things---your family, your children,
your health, your friends and your favorite passions---and if
everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still
be full.

The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house
and your car.

The sand is everything else---the small stuff.

'If you put the sand into the jar first,' he continued, 'there is no
room for the pebbles or
golf balls.

The same goes for life.

If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff you will
never have room for the things that are important to you.

Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness.

Spend time with your children.

Spend time with your parents.

Visit with grandparents.

Take time to get medical checkups.

Take your spouse out to dinner.

Practice "romance" as often as possible.

There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal.

Take care of "Mama" first---the things that really matter.

Set your priorities..

The rest is just sand.

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the Pepsi represented.

The professor smiled and said, 'I'm glad you asked.'

The pepsi just shows you that no matter how full your life may seem,
there's always room for a couple of Pepsi's with a friend.

New Vehicle

2009-04-17T17:40:00.000-07:00

After a week of debate, argument, prayer, and fasting we finally broke down and bought a mini van. J and the twins finally have enough room to be comfortable, and it makes Mom and Dad happy when the boys are happy.

Check this out!

2009-04-16T09:54:00.000-07:00

My cousin is applying to adopt for the 2nd time. Help support their noble quest for another child.
http://www.apronsforadoption.blogspot.com/

The adventures of Jakub

2009-04-15T11:19:00.001-07:00

From Desitin-
To wall paint-
I just can't keep up with this "CowBoy"

Easter

2009-04-15T11:11:00.000-07:00

The Easter Bunny came to our house and gave J a bike helmet. Now he is a bit more confident about learning to ride his bike.
James and Jakub got shovels.

The boys looked very handsome in there new outfits from Faraway Grandma.
After church we had dinner and egg hunt at Close Grandmas.
I know that my Savior Lives. I am grateful for the Easter Holiday to celebrate His life. I hope I can help my boys to grow and live the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-06T10:11:00.000-07:00

At Grandma and Grandpa's house this weekend we celebrated the April birthday's in the family, ate dinner, had an egg hunt, and when the guys were at Priesthood meeting 5 women and 9 kids went shopping at Kohl's. Grandma bought all the grandkids outfits. I want to send out a big thanks to Grandma. I can't wait to post the pictures of the boys in their Easter outfits. And I am excited to wear my new shirt too.

my boys

2009-03-26T12:16:00.000-07:00

The best time for pictures is Sunday Morning. We have 9am church and John starts loading kids in the car at 8:40. So it was a treat this particular Sunday morning when we were all ready at 8:30, John thought we should be jumping in the car and I said wait, lets get some pictures. Even after a few pictures we made it to church by 8:45. It is a good thing I don't have any little girls to get ready. If so I would probably have to drive myself to church.

Disney on Ice

2009-03-24T10:25:00.000-07:00

We went to Disney on Ice a few weeks ago and I haven't post pictures yet....so here they are.

4 adults, 7 kids and a good time had by all.

slacker

2009-03-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

I just returned from scrapbook weekend with my girlfriends in Heber. It was so much fun. I completed over 100 pages and finished out 2008. I have been making 3 books for two years now. My plan for 2009 is to switch from 81/2 x 11 binders to 12 x 12 books and just make one family scrapbook. I just had to tell myself that James and Jakub are never going to have as many personal scrapbooks as J. He was an only child for 5 years and that is just the way it is. I love to journal my thoughts and share pictures of my handsome boys in my scrapbooks. I consider them my way of preserving my family history. I don't go all out and spend hours on one page with the stickers and paper but I hope they are not to cheesy.
I will tell you the best part of being away at scrapbook weekend is spending 3 days looking at the faces of my boys in pictures and realizing how much I love them. I truly am very blessed.

Mary Kay Spring Sale

2009-03-10T08:46:00.000-07:00

I am ready for Spring
SALE

40% off every product.

When you place your order online, it

will not show the discount. I will email

you back with your total. .

STOCK UP WHILE THE PRICE IS HOT!

I will be putting in my order March 16^th.

So get your order to me before 5pm that day.

www.marykay.com/jmills8

Have a great day!

Here we go to Grandma's House!

2009-03-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

This was our first trip to Clinton this year. With 3 boys crowded in the back seat of our car we set out for a 1 1/2 hour drive.

J played the Nintendo DS for a few minutes before getting car sick. We had to make several stops for him to climb over the front seat and out the door for air. Our family wish for next Christmas is a van. Once at Grandma's we celebrated the March birthdays. James and Jakub got cupcakes.

John's favorite is german chocolate cake with mint chocolate chip ice cream. For the big 60 birthday boy Grandpa there was Lemon Meringue pie.

Jakub liked showing off the raccoon hat.

Grandpa gave a great FHE lesson on Prayer and the things that are most important to us in our lives. We are truly a very blessed family. John and I just celebrated our 10th Anniversary and I have been reflecting on our commitment to each other and goal to return with our family and be together forever.

The Twins Are 2.

2009-03-01T16:42:00.000-08:00

This year for the twins birthday we decided we wanted to take them on an outing verses buying more stuff that we don't need. I hope the memories will last longer that the toys. So we purchased tickets to Disney on ice. The show is in a few weeks. It should be fun. I am probably more excited than the boys since they don't really understand what is going on.

All they know is they had a party and it was fun.......
Papa showed up with 2 big wheels. "cycle" says Jaybub. "bike" says Jamesy. Now we just need SPRING in Idaho. We still haven't gotten over 42 degrees.
We had lunch....
presents......

Hugs....
Good times.....

Thanks to all the family that came to support us in our celebration for the twins. John's parents came up with Jaren and Sarah. Megan came with the kids. I lucked out that my sister and brother in law blessed their baby today, so my brothers were both here from out of town. It was the 1st time my family had all been together since the week before Christmas. The bigger John and I's families get the harder it is to get together. Everyone's lives are so busy. It is a good thing we have Facebook and blogs so we call all keep in touch. I love you all.