The Crane Family

Padgett Family Picture Time

2012-01-08T16:43:00.000-08:00

I can't remember the last time we had family pictures done (excluding weddings). Just not something that we can all get together and do. It still was a bit hard getting everyone (we had a few missing) but for my parents this year we had a family picture taken. I loved so many of the different shots that were taken. Of course, while the photographer was going, I just had her add my own little family into the arrangement :)
Here are some of my favorites!! I am really biased............but I think they are fabulous~

I saw this idea on PINTEREST, but it didn't have the kids in the sample. I came up with this one all by myself. HAHAHA. I truly love it though!

Myself and my Prince Charming. This man is amazing. I am a lucky, blessed, and treated like a Queen girl for sure!

Not sure when my kids grew up??? I'm trying out the brunette business now. Maybe I won't be such an airhead with the blonde gone. Ya, right.

My oldest brother Gary & Cindy, their kids & grandkids!

My baby sister Kelli & Matt

Baby J is getting too big! Love this little guy!!!

Little brother Jimmy & ChaBlee and Baby J of course.

You don't realize how hard it is to get a decent picture with this many people, and so many tiny ones. I love my family!! They are the best.

The "Men"....Yes, Todd is still wearing his sunglasses on top of his head. I think they finally come off in the house. Only Todd!

Dad and his boys. Looks like a bunch of trouble to me!

Momma Mia and her little Princesses!!!

The "Girls" who try to tame those rowdy boys!

If you ever wonder why I am the way I am, just look to this picture. This is my family. These are my parents, and my siblings. They make me laugh, scream, love, and sometimes pull my hair out, but I wouldn't trade them for anything.

Big thanks to Cindy (who hates getting her picture taken!) for putting this together, and for her friend Hannah who came and tried to wrestle this wild bunch together.

Kensey's Recital, Egypt Project & Principals Pride :)

2011-11-07T16:27:00.000-08:00

Kensey's orchestra class had a Halloween concert. She is in intermediate orchestra, and still LOVES her violin. She plays very well and I am glad she found an instrument that she already enjoys. Once Junior High hits she will be ahead of the pack.

Doesn't every cheerleader play the violin???

We've also spent FOREVER working on an Egypt Project. By "we" it should mean Kensey and the two kids that also got the A on the project. The kids did do alot of the work, but Gus and I had way to much fun making the pyramids. I know alot more about Egypt then I ever did before. Still can't say that I want to go there, but hey, it all works out.

Its easy to stop and see things when you work at the school :)

On Friday, Kensey received her Principals Pride award from her teacher. It was a slightly sad moment for me. Where did my little girl go? I have this young woman who has taken her place. She is so many wonderful things. She is confident, happy, and makes friends everywhere she goes. It was her first day at a new dance studio and she walked right up to some of the girls, introduced herself, and made friends like that! I would've NEVER done that. Makes me proud!!

She truly loves her family. Not just Chad, Me, and Gus. All of the crazy people we consider our family. She worries about them, tries to find ways to serve them, and always has a prayer in her heart concerning them. She has been trying to read the Book of Mormon this year and I am proud of her making that a goal. She finished her Faith in God a few months ago and doesn't turn 12 until May! She has a strong testimony of her Heavenly Father, the temple (Which she CAN:T wait to go to on her 12th birthday!), and that there is always a reason. Her favorite line from the movie Soul Surfer is: "I don't know why bad things happen to us, I only know good things will come." and she lives that motto every single day. I love her with all I am, and everything I can. She is an example to me everyday of how to be a better person. I love you Sweetie, Thank you for being MY PRIDE!

Getting her Principals Pride Award!!!!!

Gus and all his greatness!

2011-10-12T14:54:00.000-07:00

Gus is FINALLY old enough to play tackle football. I wasn't thrilled about the idea. As you can imagine though, I am a very typical "football mom", as I have been accused of at just about every game. Ok, at every game. Chad at times won't sit by me. I have a voice. A loud one. I use it. Enough said.
He really is loving it. I don't think he is as aggressive as he could be, but he just jumps on the tackle after it has taken place and feels like he is all in it. Cracks me up!
As of right now they are 5-0......UNDEFEATED!! Which means I can plan on more games because there are semi-finals, and then finals. Get my thermals out for sure.

I am proud of you Gus also because you made sure and got your Wolf in cubscouts along with a ridiculous amount of things they expect me to sew on your uniform and add to your beltloop. That cubscouts is important to you, and that you enjoy being a part of it. You were also the very first choice for Principals Pride at school. You read as fluently as the top 3% of the 6th grade, being a 3rd grader that is awesome. I love that every night when Daddy isn't home you automatically "can't sleep" and have to snuggle in with me until Daddy takes you back to bed when he gets home. I love that a few weeks ago you said to me, "Mom, I LOVE YOU!" to which I replied, "NO way, because I LOVE YOU more!!!" and you answered me by saying, "Mom, there is NO WAY you could ever understand just how much I LOVE YOU!" it brought me to tears, and I thought No Buddy, you will never understand until you have a son of your own just how much I truly love you!!

LOTS OF NEPHEWS IN JULY!!!!

2011-09-05T08:12:00.000-07:00

For the month of July we were busy, busy, busy....... but it was a good busy for sure. It started July 10th. I got the phone call from my little brother that their first baby was on his way! So I packed up some stuff, drove to my parents house, and the 3 of us went to Ogden Regional Hospital.
Jarrett Damon Padgett arrived 7-11-11 weighing 7 lb 11 oz and born at 4:11 am. We call him Baby J around here.

Daddy Jimmy with his new little guy. I have never seen a Daddy more in love, ever!

Gus with his new cousin. Not quite sure about these new babies!!

Little Mother Hen never wanted to give him up. Glad I am still stronger then her :)

He stole my heart for sure. Where I felt a void for my brother, and for our family, Baby J has helped in so many ways!

THEN, two days later Justin got home from his mission in Lubbock, Texas. We were at the airport waiting for him to arrive and his plane was right on time. He looked the same to all of us, but appartently while he was gone all his cousins grew. Two years will do that to kids!! It was so great to have another nephew safely home. I took my camera, but of course forgot the SIM card. So I tried to take pictures, and hmmmmmm ya, I am an idiot at times.

THEN, we got the phone call that my neice was have her baby. Hazen Cole Padgett arrived healthy and strong. My brother Gary who has been working in California caught a flight home to be there for the arrival of his grandson. He is a handsome little guy for sure!!

I LOVE his big beautiful lips. Boys shouldn't be blessed with lips so big and beautiful!!!

Now I have TWO Great Nephews, and one Great Niece. It makes me feel a little old.......

Kensey, has this baby thing down perfectly.

Gus is still not quite sure, but tries to hold them anyways!

Tayton, the oldest of the GREATS. He is so funny. He will have you laughing all the time for sure!

We finished up our trip at the Coalville History Museum. The kids had fun looking at all the OLD stuff, and I enjoyed learning more about the area. Most of all I just love having all these new nephews in my life!! And the ones I already had, getting home safely!!

First Day of School

2011-09-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

Good-Bye Summer. We truly love you every year!! We also love getting ready to go back to school. Well, kind of.......
Back to work I went at the school, Kensey hit 6th grade this year, and Andrew goes to 3rd. When did they grow up?? Where did time go?
Next year she will walk into Junior High School. VERY not ready for that, so I am grateful for this year for that reason alone.
I love these two kids, I love their Dad, and that I have the opportunity to be with them each day at school.

Kensey, Me , and Andrew before I took off to get the office rolling on the first day!

I love that they act like they love each other sooooo much for pictures!!! They were really excited to be on their way.

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS PICTURE OF MY 3 FAVORITE PEOPLE!! I HAD A 4X6 MADE FOR CHAD TO TAKE TO WORK WITH AN AWESOME FRAME. THEY ARE MY WORLD

Syd R., Kensey, Brylie, Emma, Blake, and Maddi: Kensey's awesome group of friends. We miss

Syd S., but they will all be back together next year!

My loving husband sneaking up to the office to take my picture. I got the hand up just in time HAA HAA. Yes, this is where I spend what feels like my life for nine months!

Overall, it was a great first day, and I think it will be a great school year.

Happy Fathers Day (Chicago Bears Style!)

2011-08-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

All Chad wanted for Fathers Day (yes I know it was last month, but I told you my blogging is a little behind) was some pictures of his kids in their Chicago Bears jersey's and his wife in HIS Chicago Bears jersey. So we went over to the football field and took some fun shots for him. Gus and Chad both are HUGE Chicago Bears fans. Thru the good and bad seasons, we cheer them on. He loved the pictures, and we love what a great Dad and husband he is to us!

Where is Gus?

2011-07-19T09:09:00.000-07:00

My posting for July, has sucked. There i said it. I will try and get back on track, but for now another funny Gus moment.
We couldn't find Gus for 30 minutes. I looked everywhere in the house. Looked outside. Wondered if he went to a friends house and I didn't hear him.........You know the drill.
As I was walking by the kids bathroom the light was on, so energy saver that I am I turned it off, only to hear him FINALLY say, "Hey I am reading in here!" Now I had walked by the bathroom a million times. I pulled back the tub curtain and this is what I found

He had pulled a blanket, pillow, and his book into the tub. He had ignored me looking for him because it was such a great book, he just couldn't hear me =)

I had to laugh, and be grateful that he loves to read. BUT he did get a reminder that he needs to answer me, so I don't have heart failure when I can't find him.

Little Rascals

2011-06-13T17:06:00.000-07:00

Its summer. Kids get bored. We were having the Borders Kids over. What is there to do??? Well we got the Borders wagon from their house and decided to have some fun!! The kids wanted to take the wagon down the hill and see how fast it could go, and have a good time.
Now I am an over-protective mom. I worry. So I pull out the helmets. The 4-wheeler helmets for the kids so that they don't get any brain injuries.
They went to the highest drive-way and off they went. Now being the good Mom that I am, I didn't want to go in the house in case something happened, so I pulled out my lawnchair, got my kindle and started reading my book. Well, it took the kids about an hour to get back! I didn't realize it because I was reading, lost in my own world.
They had made it to the elementary school a mile away!!!
OK, so the wagon doesn't have brakes. They couldn't stop.
I go in the house and there is 8 missed calls.......from concerned neighbors.........who know I would NEVER allow this to happen.......Apparently they were going FAST. Ummmm, SUPER FAST?!?!
Well, I did let it happen. They loved it, no broken bones, no cars hit them, and I got to read for an hour. =) Welcome to not being bored at our house!

The Old and NEW Countertops =)

2011-05-31T15:46:00.000-07:00

I love my house. BUT with every house there are projects that continually need to get done. When we bought this house 5 years ago, I knew we needed to get new countertops. They were dated, I didn't love them, and I wanted some new ones. This is where being married to me makes Chad a champion.........It has taken 5YEARS for me to justify this as a NEED vs. a WANT. Our flooring is so top to the list of NEEDS now, but I just keep buying rugs and holding out.
I am a cheapskate. I hate to spend money. Luckily, we were able to get the most incredible deal EVER heard of, and that is what made me finally give in. I keep telling Chad, "Now see, if we would've done this when you wanted to it would've cost us 700$ more!" It is a good enough reason for me. 700$ is alot of money in this girls wallet.
So alas, the unvieling of the old and new =)

Some new fixtures and new faucets added the final touches. I am in heaven. Happy Anniversary gifts to us!! I absolutely LOVE them!!

The Good, The Fun, And The Ugly is GONE!

2011-05-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

What have we been up to? Well, up above is a picture of Kensey and Andrew and their FAVORITE UTAH UTES PLAYER #70 Tony Bergstrom. Yes, he came to our house. It was awesome. Kensey was in heaven. Gus is in his pajamas =) His wife was doing a bike marathon in Stansbury so he came up. Sonya brought him by the house. The kids couldn't stop talking about it for days.

This is my FUN new purse. I LOVE IT. Chad can't believe that I am sporting it around, which proves to me just how darling it is, and I get compliments on it everywhere I go. Love, love, love my new purse. Kristin brought it home from Texas for me as an early birhday present. Another reason to love Texas.

Chablee had a baby shower at my moms house. She got some incredible gifts. It was so fun to have a shower for our new nephew arriving in July. This is the diaper bag from myself and Vannessa. It turned out so stinking cute.

                                             This is my favorite! The cover for the car seat. Mr. Jarrett Padgett
                                            will be covered in style! WooHoo.   I think it turned out
                                             awesome as well!!

                                                                NOW THE UGLY THAT IS GONE!!!!

Here are the ugly countertops we were FINALLY able to get rid of.......Not a single tear shed seeing these things go BYE BYE. I know turquoise is in right now, I know that the whole brown, turquoise thing is popular, but NOT as my countertop. Negative.

IT IS GONE!! WOOHOO. I will definitely be posting pictures as the progress continues. This Saturday is backsplash, and during the week the two bathrooms get rid of their ugly tops. I seriously can't wait. Its the best Anniversary gift ever. Oh ya, we had our 12th Anniversary. Chad was in Washington and I was having a breakdown at work. Great day. Glad it is Friday now, Chad just got home, we are going to watch a movie, snuggle in, and get ready to replace countertops tomorrow. Gus has also made it as the top seed in his football games, so they don't play again until June 4th. We actually may have some time HAA HAA

Justin Bieber 3-D!!!!!!!

2011-05-02T19:05:00.000-07:00

These girls loved the movie!! They knew everytime Justin pointed his 3-D finger out he pointing it directly at them, and that the confetti was REALLY getting into their glasses

Syd R., Madee, Syd S., and the Princess =)

Posing for after the movie shots

Princess Angel Kensey was born 11 years ago. What a difference she makes in my life everyday. We took a few friends to see Justin Bieber in 3-D. I really like the new glasses they have for 3-D movies now. Not quite the red and blue plastic film from my younger years. It made me laugh watching them get all excited, wearing their JUSTIN shirts (Kens didn't have one, but thanks to Madee she does now) and remembering how fun it was to have a boyband crush on some star.

Kensey has been blessed with WONDERFUL friends, and I feel very fortunate to have these girls be in her life. They are great examples and I feel so lucky to know each of their families, to know each of these sweet girls, and to know how happy they make Kensey feel.

I can't even begin to start with how much I love my little girl. She means the world to me. I love listening to her laugh, and she is amazing with little kids. She can't wait to be a teacher someday. Her violin is coming along well, and she is discovering that she is a pretty good person.

Kens, I LOVE YOU! Thank you for all the good times we have, you are someone I look up to and love with all of my heart. Can't wait to see what is in store for us in the next 11 years =)

Sometimes Life is HARD

2011-04-28T16:07:00.000-07:00

Spring Break........If you remember last year we went to my mom's and ended up with 24 inches of snow and got to stay a couple of extra days.
This year my mom was going to come and spend some time with us here at our house, we were going to go to see HOP, we were going to eat at McDonalds everyday for lunch, we were going to sleep in and have a relaxing week.
Well, Monday that all worked.
Tuesday DCFS from Logan came and took Aiden to return him to Logan. It is a L-O-N-G, emotional, drawn out story that I am done telling. Simply stated, I hate DCFS. I am reminded that only I can choose my emotions and I mostly try to switch them, but I have decided that I can hate that system right now. Our entire government is on my angry list.
Needless to say, I called my Momma. My Rock. My Guide in ALL Storms. She told me to pack our bags and get up to her house. Chad included. All of us. She wrapped us up in her bubble of LOVE and took care of me. It doesn't matter if I am 3, 17, 29, or almost 36. She shows me what a Mom is suppose to do, be like, and how to make the HARD in life sometimes not hurt quite so bad. She showed me that even when I am hurting so badly that she can put on a brave face and let me hurt, ease my pain and yet suffer her own. To be that example to my own kids, that as I watch them wonder, and question, and hurt over this that I need to put my feelings on a shelf, wrap them in hugs, and remind them how grateful I am for a plan that I believe in that lets me be with them for eternity.
Once again, an outpouring of love was sent our way. I love where I live. I love my friends more then ever. ESPECIALLY the ones that just DID. They didn't wait to hear what was needed, wanted, they just DID. They were angels to my soul, and I love them very, very, very, much.
My husband, my sweet Chaddy, who I watched cry until I couldn't watch anymore. When he made the profound statement, "This is the smallest taste of what our Heavenly Father went through when he gave His Son" has penetrated my heart. His desire to love a child was never a doubt in my mind. I watch everyday how much he can love our kids. He amazes me with his love of all kids.
I have had my faith tested, but I believe I passed. Maybe not with flying colors =) but I think I passed. I followed the prompting, I sacrificed, I worked hard, I gave all I had, I suffered, I cried, I hurt, but I still love my Savior. I still trust Him with all that I have, and all that I am. He wouldn't put me through a trial I couldn't succeed in, and I have to trust in His timing of all things.
I pray for the success of this Mom, and my precious nephew. I pray that she realizes what a sweet, loving, and remarkable child she was blessed with, and also an amazing family. They have been wonderful to me and our family, and I couldn't have weathered this storm without them.
I am not 100%. Today I got home from work and turned off all the ringers and crawled into my bed, and shut out the world. BUT, I got up. Once the kids got home, they had a happy faced Mom. I am making baby steps. I am able to do this. Sometimes Life Is Hard, BUT It Is Worth It.
To each of you who have ever been a part of my life, for however long, Thank You for helping me become who I am. Your footprints are on my heart, and they have made me into someone that I am proud to be.
Give your kids a hug. Give them a kiss. Let them know of your love for them.
It is worth it.
Love, Steph

two posts in one--Kenseys violin recital & the mouse who ate the chocolate

2011-04-19T08:02:00.000-07:00

Kensey has always wanted to play the violin. She was able to start at the Junior High this year. She goes there three days a week, and then a bus brings her back to the elementary school. She played a solo for a panel and she got the ranking of superior plus. Apparently no one else got this high of a ranking!!! She was sooooo excited to say the least. I guess it pays off to listen to the same songs, over, and over, and over, and over again!!! Here she is performing at our friends the Smarts piano recital. Stacy invited her to mix things up a little so everyone wasn't listening to piano the whole time.

Here are Stacy and her piano students plus Kensey. Thanks Stacy for including her!!! She had a great time. I do have to point out that Chad was right on a point he made. I thought it should be a family event. He couldn't believe I wanted to take Aiden to a RECITAL. I thought it would be fine. ummmm, I spent half of it in the foyer, Chad spent the other half.........Ok, Chad was right for his one time this year =)

Maddi, Blake, Sydney, and Kensey. Blake came to support her friends and listen to them play. Sydney did the piano and the flute. These girls are amazing and I love them all. Kensey has been blessed with awesome friends who build her up, and help her acheive her goals.

The kids did a chocolate fund raiser at school. Aunt Christine bought six chocolate bars. I had them sitting on the counter waiting to deliver them to her. I woke up one morning and found one of the bars looked like this above. Now, if you know me, you know that I think Satan created mice. I HATE MICE. That is all i could think. A MOUSE IS IN MY HOUSE AND IS EATING MY FOOD!! I went in a slight heart attack, panic mode. Then I wondered why the mouse only wanted this one bar. Chad came up laughing and said, "I see you see what our little Aiden did this morning!" He knows chocolate, he doesn't know how to un-wrap it (yet!) We have had some good laughs over this one. We kept the bar to show people. It has been pretty funny.

Still NO MICE in my house. I would die. Seriously die if there were. Just a two year old. I can take that!!!

Bling Bling =)

2011-04-12T19:44:00.000-07:00

This was just toooo funny I had to share this one!
Our Primary makes a CD of all the Primary songs the kids need to work on through-out the year for our program. Well for whatever reason EVERY day my kids put it on #3 Praise To The Man. It is a beautiful rendition of the song, and they love it.
Today Gus asked what it meant to be matyred. I said its when you are killed for what you believe in, and standing up for your beliefs and someone kills you. So he asks if that is what happened to Joseph Smith. Anyways, it started this great conversation about standing up for ourselves and our beliefs and I was feeling like a good mom, and then.
Gus: So Mom, Joseph Smith did all that for some BLING BLING?
Me: WHAT?!?!
Gus: This song says he does all of this so he can show God his BLING BLING.
Me & Kensey: NO IT DOESN"T
YES IT DOES
NO IT DOESN"T
so we are sitting in the parking lot at the school by this point and we re-listen to the song.
Oh, Handsome Devil of mine, they say MINGLING WITH GOD.
OOOOHHHHHHH!!!!!!! I wondered why Joseph Smith was going to die for his BLING BLING

Ok, I have seriously laughed abuot this all day long. Now all night long. I am sure Joseph Smith is in Heaven getting a laugh out of my kid. Yep, the gospel was restored so Joseph Smith could sport his BLING BLING =)

Pinewood Derby

2011-04-08T19:10:00.000-07:00

Gus is finally a Cub-Scout and with that comes the Pinewood Derby. Now here I am thinking, fun, we get to decorate a car and watch some races. Ummm no. These males take this derby seriously. Ridiculously seriously if you ask me. Chad and Gus mapped out a design, then they cut it out of the wood, lots of sanding, picking out the color of the car, and then the best part..........MELTING METAL on my kitchen stove and ruining a frying pan and stinking up the entire house for days. All for the sake of 5 ounces of weight. Really?!?
I had fun helping paint the car and decorate it. Not as much fun as I had with Kensey when the Activity Days Girls did one, but bonding none the less.
We were able to watch him get his Bobcat that night, I got my first pin (what do you do with these things?) and then we were off to the races!!

We were welcomed with racing banners!

Gus getting his car in place. His is the turquoise car (of course) I was teasing him that it said Aqua on the paint container and he made sure I knew Aqua is a girl color while turquiouse is somehow a boy color

Ok, we didn't win, place, or show, BUT we did get the Cubmasters Pick of best car. Yep, that was my decorating skills. Ok, and a lttle of Gus

Aiden LOVED the entire idea of racing cars. We sat at the end and he would yell Mark, Set, GOOOOOO and clap after each race. He was very happy once he actually got to touch the beloved car!

It was a fun night, and I loved watching how intense all the dads and grandpa's got. Wow. I thought women could be vicious. Apparently next year we need to bring our game on!!

What is Aiden NOT up to, should be the question =)

2011-03-30T13:27:00.000-07:00

Its so funny having a two year old running around here again. He is so full of life. I want just a couple of ounces of his energy!! We had the home teachers over last night, and this boy knows exactly how to be the center of attention for sure. We spent an hour just laughing at him being silly.
We are getting use to child proof locks on everything, making sure the bathroom doors are closed at ALL times (after we found him in the toilet thinking it was bathtime!), not to let him see when we let the dog go outside because he wants to be OUTSIDE all the time, we hide his coat so he won't wear it all day wanting to go out, we are searching for a lock for the fridge because opening and shutting it is so fun for him, he loves singing and dancing around the house, we are currently DONE with Once There Was A Snowman mainly because I am DONE with the snow, we are now working on Popcorn Popping, He loves to sing Head, Shoulder, Knees, and Toes, and of course Twinkle Twinkle. He loves LeeLu. LeeLu is losing weight like crazy. She is not so sure what she thinks of this two year old that NEVER stops chasing her =) He loves to be with me and Kensey. Two little mother hens. He now doesn't want plain cheerios. He likes when I dip them in his yogurt in the morning. Slightly spoiled I know. I love snuggling with him at his naptimes. Its just the two of us, and he is coming in close second with Gus as the best snugglers ever.
He lets us know when he isn't happy. I call it the "Teradactyl" noise. (Not sure how to spell it) Its like this AWWWK noise. Yeppers, he isn't happy when that happens. We just give him time to get it out, and then move on. We figured he has almost been here three weeks. Kensey and Gus both said the other night, I can't remember what its like to NOT have him here. Neither can I. I love the little guy!
Here are some of our latest pictures:

Here he is dancing away. He lifts his shoulders up and moves and grooves.

Opening the fridge...................

SNAP! caught again opening the fridge................

He doesn't like his fingers messy, so this is how he ate the birthday cupcake at the bowling alley!! Did I mention a two year old in a bowling alley isn't the smartest of ideas????

Playing FOOTBALL with Gus. Gus and I try and play catch everyday, now we have a three way pass going on.

Run, LeeLu, Run.......They run in circles. Aiden chasing, LeeLu running for her life!

Sidewalk Chalk. He wasn't quite sure what to do with it, but now we have a whole cement pad covered with his "drawings"

Aiden and Kensey tickling each other. Aiden LOVES to get your EYES!!!

Swinging him around having fun. She is such a great helper with this little guy. He just makes us laugh. Although at the end of the night Chad and I both say, Holy Cow, we are glad we have each other and the kids to help with this trooper! He can run circles around all of us!

A Letter From Kensey

2011-03-25T13:52:00.000-07:00

Kensey is a tutor for a little first grader. She goes and helps her learn to read. The teacher of this little girl gave me a copy of a letter Kensey had written to the teacher. I am writing it here because I just love my little girl. She will make an incredible teacher herself someday.

Mrs. Catellier,
Reva is an excellent reader only three more weeks until we are done! I will hate to see her go!
She has very much opened up to me!!! I love that!!!! She is very awesome all the time and I really like it when she happily talks to me alot.
We learned about stars today in one of her books and she read it excellent.
She has a great imagination! She has this world that I am dying to visit....and I hope she keeps imagining! :)
She has a wonderful smile! I just love to see her smile, and I try so hard to make her smile!
I have nothing but compliments to give her. You have a great student in your class. Please don't be annoyed by my note, I just want to tell you right after but....I really can't!
Love,
Kensey
P.S. She reads very good! Love her!!! :)

Ok, doesn't this sound like something a teacher would write on a report card??? Is this really my 10 year old? I LOVE how positive Kensey is to this little girl. Kensey has an amazing spirit to find those that need a hug and share one with them. She probably has no idea how much this girl appreciates how much better she reads now because of the love and praise Kensey has given to her. She helps me so much at home right now with Aiden too. She will be such a good mother someday. I am truly proud of all that she does! Love you sis.!!!!

3 for 3

2011-03-19T15:29:00.000-07:00

Thursday Morning Kensey woke up with a sore throat. She hasn't missed a single day of school all year, so I let her stay home. However, during the day she called about a million times telling me she felt better. She was calling Grandma Wees and telling her she was dying. hmmmmm

Don't know if you can tell from the picture but the same day I noticed this guy had a bad runny nose. But it was clear. That means its ok until its green and utterly disgusting right???

Decided I might as well take the two to the after hours doctors and have it all checked out.

As we are leaving this one:

Tells me it hurts when he swallows??? REALLY!?!?! Ok, I admit it. I thought my kids were faking. I'm not going to lie.

We get to the doctors and it seems the whole town decided to cme to after hours care. TWO HOURS of waiting. With a two year old and kids that are trying to convince me how sick they really are.

The doctor comes FINALLY!! Does some swabs and YEP. 3 for 3. Strep throat. BAD MOMMY MOMENT. I felt awful for telling Kensey she wasnt sick. Got all three on Azythromicin and now we have this:

SMILES!!!! No boogies, no kids that are onrey, just happy to be here children. They all got ice cream sundaes with chocolate syrup and whipped topping.

Now, keep your fingers crossed that it doesnt spread to me or Chad!!!!!

A Day At The Park

2011-03-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

Aiden LOVES to be outside. Everytime we open the door to let the dog out to go to the bathroom he thinks its a chance for him to go outside also. We finally had a nice weather day, and we found a little park that had a little kid play area and a big kid play area. Of course he wanted the big kid play area, and make me have heart failure!!

When my kids were little in the summer we would spend HOURS at the park. Different parks, different adventures. Im talking 2-3 hours of park time. They loved it. I have missed that. Looks like park time is back in my program.

Gus showing Aiden a better way to get up the play area. We had the entire park to ourselves so it was fun to just run around and be crazy.

Gus zooming by me on a slide. I GOT to go down over, and over again. Those things have static electricity flowing through them like crazy!

Handsome Little Guy!

He has done so well since being here. I can't believe its only been 9 days. It feels like he has always been here. I love his smile. Awww it melts me away.

He loves to be "soft" with the dog. He loves to be chased all around the house (up the stairs, down the stairs, around the basement, and in every room) who needs to work out?! He says, "CHAD" "ChenChee"--Kensey, and AhDrew--andrew. I get UHHH. Which means take care of all the needs I want!! He started in daycare this week and has done well. I feel very fortunate to have the sitter I have for him. She is amazing and I want to go there myself for 4 hours a day!

I start back to work tomorrow, so life will begin to start a new interesting phase, football practices start tonight, and soccer continues two nights a week. I am glad he loves to be outside because we will be outside for the next 6 months!

The Newest Arrival

2011-03-07T19:43:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, we have decided to do a kinship-fostering placement in our home. It has been a whirlwind two weeks to say the least. It started with a feeling, then the feelings were confirmed, and a great meeting where I felt the spirit so strong that everything was confirmed to me that this little guy needed to come to our home. How long? I don't know. That's not up to me. All I know is that from the second we saw him we have been having fun, loving, laughing, playing, and getting to know this special little guy.
I don't think we have laughed so much as we have the last 3 days. Its easy to forget how simple and wonderful a little child can be. I am able to see how it has been said that ,"they were led by a child."

When we pulled up at home this is what welcomed our family =) Kristin and Vannessa had gone to town, and gotten decorations, and dinner all taken care of for us! I love them both so much!!!

We came inside and this banner was hanging out in the breakfast nook. I didn't want to ever take it down!

He loves to climb on the chairs. He has a booster, and he goes to the booster when he is hungry. Every other time he goes to any of the other chairs!

This one I LOVE!! So, I will admit I WAS WORRIED. Princess LeeLu doesn't like kids. She usually barks at them the entire time they are here. I was a little LOT nervous. She LOVES him?!!? They played this game today for 20 minutes. He would get a piece of her food and throw it under the table and she would race up to it and grab it and play. Can you see his smile?!? Just so you know I have tried this with LeeLu myself, and she just stares at the food. Aiden tries it and the fattest chihuahau in the world gets up and MOVES! I seriously love this picture.

He wanted to go outside all day long. It just kept snowing and snowing. Finally when Chad got home we bundled him and Gus up and out they went. He loved it outside. He was one un-happy camper when it was time to come back in! He didn't care if it was freezing or not, he just wanted to be outside. Hopefully he still feels that way in the summer!!!

We have been very blessed by this entire experience, and he has been so good for all of us. Right now Chad is upstairs singing Mary had a Little Lamb for the 4th time (i have been counting) It brings a smile to my heart for sure!

Blue and Gold Banquet

2011-03-07T19:19:00.000-08:00

Last week was the cubscout Blue and Gold Banquet. Gus was suppose to get his BOBCAT, but they forgot to order it in. It was good because Chad was out of town working that week, but it was bad, because he had invited Vannessa and the crew to come watch the awards. Oh well, at the next pack meeting it is the pinewood derby, AND Chad's birthday. Chad is thrilled. I don't understand it, but then there are many things I don't understand. it goes back to bonding with his dad over pinewood derby cars I guess?!?!

There was a "circus" theme....Lots of activities for all the kids to do. Here is Gus juggling.

Vannessa, Bronson, and Kensey with his party hat on!

Braxton, Kensey, Gus, Brayden & Bryson trying to cross their eyes, wear their clown noses, and party hats. Nice..............

I would be the second singer in from the left. The Primary Presidency had to do an "act" for the circus. We sucked helium, and sang Old McRandy had some circus animals.......I had quite the helium headache afterwards :)

It was a fun night, but we missed Chad and we are glad he will be able to be there when Gus gets his award.

What is missing?????

2011-02-28T17:48:00.000-08:00

It's dinner time, and there is a brand new high chair without anyone in it..........

New toys, books, cars, trucks, wagon, and more...............who should play with these????

LOTS of new 2T and 3T clothes, and yep on the top shelf are diapers, diapers, and wipes........

A toddler bed all ready to go with freshly washed blankets, and a new CARS pillow (i forgot to put that pillow in the picture!)

Inside the letters on the fridge magnets gives you a clue............To the special little guy that will fill up all the these new things, and we can't wait!

We will be able to bring home the "little guy" on March 7th! Only one week to go. A toddler in the house again. I get to play make believe, trucks, and be absolutely silly. As a family we can't wait until MONDAY! Thanks to everyone for all the support and love. This is going to be one loved kiddo for sure =)

MORE Students Of The Month

2011-02-24T12:42:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I need to explain something first. Kensey was student of the month last month. I couldn't find my camera to save my life. Turns out it was in the pocket of my coat I wore. Sooooo, I didn't get any pictures of the Princess on her special day. BUT I did get one of her holding Bronson on Gus' special day, so that will have to count for something, right?

PLUS she is wearing her school T-shirt, so it works..... Bronson doesn't look very happy, but he LOVES Kensey. She eats it up!

Gus was able to be the Student of The Month for this month. He has an incredible teacher that I think he has a mini-crush on:

She is darling, and so good with the kids, that I think every boy has a mini-crush on her. My mom was able to make it out to see him receive his award which was awesome because last year when my VERY SMART CHILDREN got these awards she was only able to make it to Kensey's.

Of course he had Vannessa & Bronson, Kristin & Zachy, Chad and myself there also. He had a full line up!
Way to go to both my kids. Your hard work in school pays off. We get gift certificates to Applebees :)
I think you both amaze me every day, and I love that each year they have offered this award that you guys have been able to receive it. Hard work, dedication, and your love of reading will always work out for you, I promise!!

Nathan's Blessing Day

2011-02-24T12:34:00.000-08:00

Brice and Sara were FINALLY able to have their adoption finalized, have Nathan blessed, and we were able to go to the temple sealing the next day!
He is such a cute little guy. The kids just wanted to hold him, hold him, and did I mention hold him? However, when you have family that comes all the way from Maine, they take first choice.
I was finally able to get a picture of the three of them.
It was an awesome experience to go through, and we are still amazed at how the entire thing worked out. When something is right, its just meant to be!

It's Great to Be Eight!

2011-02-12T15:47:00.000-08:00

Yep, my baby is eight. (insert long pause here.....................) He turned eight a month ago. I still haven't been able to post about it because he makes growing up seem so easy and fun!
Chad was able to baptize and confirm him, we had a wonderful brunch afterwards, and I came home and crashed with a great big long nap!
I don't have a picture of our family on the baptism day because the lady that I had take our pictures didn't focus it. They are a blur. Grrrrrr.
So here are the pictures that were on his invitation, and some of the ones I took!
First I am going to list my 8 favorite things about Andrew.
8. He doesn't care that I call him Gus at school, and everywhere else for that matter. I use to HATE when people would call me by my nickname in public, he could care less. He is my Gus Gus!
7. His love of sports. He WORSHIPS football and its turning into the same for basketball. He can't wait for recess everyday to "get a game goin!"
6. I love that he can belch better then anyone I know. It starts in his toes and just keeps coming out. He gets this from my Linford side of the family. We belch. No burps, and this boy is the champion.
5. He stands up for others. When he sees someone getting picked on he stands up for the little guy. He tries to make sure everyone is having a good time, and that no one gets left out.
4. I LOVE going to his parent teacher conferences. They say the nicest things about him. He is smart, responsible, funny, and respectful.
3. He makes me laugh. Not just haa haa laugh, but seriously LAUGH. There are so many times Chad and I will look at each other and say DID HE JUST SAY THAT???? Because whatever it was, it was stinkin' funny without trying to be.
2. He has an infectious smile. I can't help but smile when he busts out those pearly whites. His smile makes my day even better everytime I see it.
1. He is my ULTIMATE SNUGGLER. Since birth. This boy snuggles. I told him his wife is going to be one lucky lady, because he can snuggle better then anyone I know. He holds my hand, burrows his head, and if we are reading a book, watching a movie, or just about anything (he doesn't even realize it half the time!) he is snuggled in.
Gus, I love you more then words will ever be able to say. I am so thankful that Heavenly Father gave you to me, to let me be a part of your life, and to let me be your mom. I am proud of the decisions you make and the person I know you can be!
I love you buddy!

Chad and Gus heading to the church

Andrew and his friend T-Ball were baptized on the same day!

One picture on his invitations. His new scriptures.

MY handsome devil

See what I mean about that smile?? Who could resist him??

It only took 18 months!

2011-01-26T16:04:00.000-08:00

For Chads job he goes out of town every month for a week. We were both a little concerned with how our kids would be, knowing they would be with their GREAT BIG GIVE INNER MOM for a week. So we made a checklist. They each needed to acheive 50 checkmarks. They got a checkmark for doing good things. If they were extra nice, if they saw a chance to serve someone and did it without being asked, if they were helpful on the weeks Chad was gone. Yep, they'd get checkmarks.
On the flipside, when they were little turkey-butts, back talked, disrespected, or was in general naughty britches they got checkmarks taken away.
We had promised them when they got to 50 we would throw each one of them a party. HUGE PARTY is what Chad kept calling it.
Kens would get in the lead. Then Gus would catch up, and pass her. Then one would have a bad day and go backwards. It was really nice to say, YOU DO THAT AGAIN YOU ARE LOSING A CHECKMARK! Or to see them do something so sweet and be able to go up to them and let them know that they earned a checkmark.
However, if they did something EXPECTING the checkmark? negative.
So, the week of Gus' birthday they both finally reached 50 checkmarks. This curling on the edges piece of paper could come off my refrigerator! Now we had to do 2 HUGE PARTIES, plus Gus' birthday. Hmmmmmm. Of course I came up with a brilliant plan.
Our local outdoor pool is my favorite place to be all summer. Unfortunately, it is still freezing bones cold. So we went with the next best pool option, the indoor one. They let you rent the entire place to yourselves for 2 hours on Friday or Saturday nights.
We could invite 10 people, we could invite 300 people. Three birds killed with one stone! Checkmark for me!
The kids went to town and invited classmates, neighbors, team mates, families, etc. We had a riot. The kids had the entire place to themselves. And its not some little dinky pool. Its a big facility. WOOHOO!!!
We all had a blast, and I was proud that the little guys finally made their marks!

Kensey and her friends in the BIG KIDS pool

Bryson spent the night jumping off the high dive

the pool brought out all the tubes and noodles for the kids

Noni enjoying the big slide!

Gus spent most his night floating around the lazy river

Jackson was set with his life jacket and the tube~!

Hanging out at Grandma and Grandpa's

2010-12-31T17:34:00.000-08:00

We went up to my parents house on Tuesday with the plan to come home on Thursday. Yep, we got snowed in up there.
It was Grandpa Jim's 60th birthday. We got him his usual pair of slippers and pajama bottoms. We try and find truly fantastic pajama bottoms for him :) This years had little snowmen all over them. I am sure he absolutley loves them!
We played in the snow, played on the WII grandpa got, played on the cricut, read, laughed, and enjoyed each other. Gus got to go to work with Grandpa and Jimmy on Wednesday. They took him and got him a haircut, hot chocolate with lots of whipped toppings, and later in the day I got a picture of gus with duct tape over his mouth. Yep, thats my boy!
I don't think my dad wanted us to leave. He kept saying YOU REALLY GOING TO LEAVE?? Ummmm, 4 days here. I think you would be sick of us by now!
Thanks for all you do for us Mom and Dad. We wished we could've stayed longer too!

Gus, Grandpa Jim & Kensey.....Happy 60th Birthday Grandpa, we love you!!!

Grandma Wees, LeeLu, and myself getting a picture in

Ummm, kids.......you lay the OTHER way to make snow angels :)

Trying to climb up the mound of snow!

Kensey, Uncle Jimmy, and Gus. They LOVE their Uncle Jimmy

Grandpa and Grandma working in the barn. Ya, not fun!

Snow up to my waist!!! It was 2 degrees outside. We were frozen!!!

Christmas Break

2010-12-27T14:13:00.000-08:00

I have loved having Christmas Break! My kids and I love sleeping in, doing whatever it is we would like to do for the day, being together, and if we could add about 50 degrees it would be just like summer!
We had a wonderful Christmas. I love that my kids are getting older. (at least at Christmas!) We loaded up ourselves, I took my purse, my kids loaded up their own gifts ahhhhhh. That was nice!
My parents had a great Christmas Eve get together. We actually got a picture taken of everyone that was there! KELLI you need to email me the picture!! Only 3 people were missing out of 27 (not to shabby!)
We laughed, opened gifts, ate, ate, ate, laughed, and loved.
Christmas morning the kids woke us up at 7:15 and we got down to business. Santa didn't forget these two after all! Kensey got the Harry Potter book she has been dying for, tons of nail polish, board games, blankets, clothes, a mini camcorder, and a stocking filled. Gus got a rip-stick skateboard, a double basketball hoop with timer, loads of WII games, and another filled stocking. It was Chads year to get shoes, shoes, and more shoes! I also got him some Chicago Bears items to make sure he felt his quota of Chicago Bears stuff was met. I got a great chair from Cabela's that my parents have, and I LOVE! Chad also picked out two winner pairs of shoes for me. It caused him much heartburn and anxiety, but once again my Christmas was wonderful.
We traveled to Grandma Cranes and was able to spend time with Chad's family also. Christopherson's had been able to talk to Justin that morning, and sounds like he is doing awesome on his mission. We were glad to be able to see everyone!
Back home my parents came to see what Santa brought us. We even got Grandma and Grandpa to play the WII. I wouldn't be surprised if Grandpa Jim buys himself one sometime soon. He loved it. Grandma won Kensey and I at Just Dance 2. That woman was working it!!!
I am so grateful for all of my loved ones, it was awesome!

I am wondering how many more years I can get away with buying them

matching Christmas outfits to wear to church! Thanks Gymboree for having

matching lines.....

Zachy and Gus with their snowman. He is one of our favorite little guys!

He loves Andrew, and its so fun to watch them play together.

Kensey and Braxton had to make a snowman after they saw Zach and Gus!

Complete with carrot nose!

They have also had fun sledding down our front yard, you can see the sled in the background.

Not so sure how Chad feels about that on his "grass" but its been fun for the kiddo's!

"Tis the Season

2010-12-02T15:45:00.000-08:00

'Tis the Season............for SPORTS!

As you can see from the picture we have some strong BYU fans (boys) and some strong UofU fans (girls)!! Luckily, us girls have bragging rights for another year. However bad of a game it was!! We all agree on the Jazz, and LOVE watching them play. Andrew got to go with Chad to sit on the second row a few weeks ago. The bear picked him up and carried him around the court. Now he thinks that is where he should sit every time!

I have finally come around to being a Chicago Bears fan. Andrew and Chad are obsessed and it was contagious. They haven't come around to my way of thinking about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers yet. Maybe when we are loaded with money we will go to Florida and watch a Bucs vs. Bears game. It has to be in Florida though, so it will be warm!

Kensey is starting indoor soccer training soon, and Gus starts his Jr Jazz games too. We love sports around here, watching and playing!!

Happy Birthday BRONSON & Grandma Crane

2010-12-02T15:38:00.000-08:00

We had a birthday party at our house for Grandma Cranes Birthday. Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins came over to celebrate. She had a great time with the family, and everyone had a Sundae on Sunday. Before her party we had been over at the Borders celebrating Bronson's first birthday. We had a lot of treats that day. Bronson was so cute to watch eat his cupcake and open his presents. He had no idea what was going on, but he was loving it!

Happy Birthday to YOU!!

We got him a bowling set. Mainly so he has more things to throw around :)

Veterans Day

2010-11-16T13:56:00.000-08:00

Kensey's teacher this year is great. She has really loved Mrs. Parry. Each year Mrs Parry has her class put on a program for Veterans on Veterans Day. Each student is encouraged to invite a veteran for their presentation. Kensey invited our next door neighbor, Bevan. She was so excited when he said he could make it. The kids worked so hard on learning lots of songs, and there was so much patriotism felt in the room. Parents weren't invited because they just do it in the classroom, but working at the school has its benefits!!! Yep, me, my camera, and my camcorder found our way inside.
There were at least 50 people there and anyone that felt comfortable was able to stand and say what branch of the military they served, and a little about their experiences. I was very proud to be an American that day. I was so grateful to watch my daughter have the chance to see these men and women who protect us, and save our freedoms that I think we take for granted. The kids sang so well, and I had happy tears rolling down my face the entire time!

Here is the banner they made that was at the front of the school. Each of the kids signed their names..

They had the kids line up and welcome each individual veteran that came into the school. They were each escorted to the classroom by a child.

Kensey and Bevan

Bevan, Kensey, Sydney and Jack

Halloween 2010

2010-11-16T13:44:00.000-08:00

Chad isn't much on Halloween. He doesn't EVER dress up. He has dressed up one time in the 11 years we've been married. Well, he dressed up this year. His good friend Scott was the butt of Chad's joke. Actually, alot of people really thought it was funny. Chad and Scott have been friends for a long time, and they love to tease each other about everything, and anything. They have served together in many callings, and they talk to each other like two women. They are always on the phone with each other. Scott is an avid UTES fan, a city councilman, and former bishop. Chad put together the ultimate costume.

Here is Chad with the REAL Scott Wardle! Luckily, Scott thought it was hilarious also!! Chads costume paid off. Here are the kiddos, 80's chick, Darth Vaders other son, I brought Bryson along and he was a karate kid, and of course I wore my witches hat :)

It was raining so bad that the trunk or treat was inside the church. It didn't seem right to go trick or treating inside a church, so I let the kids swarm the neighborhood when we got home. Needless to say, we are still eating candy!

Chicks Pick

2010-10-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

So, its been a week. A long week. Chad has been in Washington. Lots going on at work. Halloween Carnival, running around, just exhausted by the end of each day.
On Thursday some teachers wanted everyone to wear orange and black for Halloween. I have oodles and oodles of black. No orange. No orange??? Seriously, none. So I thought, I will go to the D.I. and see what I can find. I get to the D.I. find one orange shirt that I would ever wear and get a phone call from Chad. Where are you? The people that we sold the swingset to at our house to pick it up. CRAP.
I buy the shirt and I am hurrying home. I happen to look over at Taco Bell just in time to see this sign. I bust up laughing. Then I got an idea.
Kids get home from school, and I tell Gus I have a surprise for him. Kensey is bent that I don't have one for her, but I tell her i know she will like his. We drive and make a U-turn into a empty parking lot. They both stare at me. I know they are thinking, OK she has officially lost it this week. Then I tell them to look!
The looks on their faces are priceless. I start asking Gus, "who you been flirting with? Who wants to be your chick picker?" on and on.
Kensey is wondering who wants to take Gus to our friends house who has chickens to pick them for him. I am laughing so hard I am crying. Gus is beet red. He claims he hasn't been flirting with anyone, and he doesn't want a chicken!
Sooooo to whoever was asking a different Gus to the girls choice dance entitled Chicks Picks.......You made my day. I was laughing about it hours later, I am laughing about it now. It was priceless~!

Post#3--Rockin The 80"s

2010-10-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

So I arrive home from the hospital to be given the note that Tomorrow Is 80's Day at School! Now if I had been given all week to put together THE outfit we would've truly rocked it. However, we did the best we could with what we were given.
We had to peg the pants. That is my most vivid memory of junior high. Cutting off the circulation in my ankles to peg those pants as tight as I could.
We put Kensey's hair in french braids the night before so they would looked crimped for Friday. Do they even make crimpers anymore?
Popped the top of Andrews shirt and didn't button it up, for sure!

This is BEFORE her hair was fixed. Thanks COURTNEY for fixing her hair all week. We would've had one sad girl without you!!!

Post #2--Welcome Home Me

2010-10-03T15:32:00.000-07:00

I would feel ungrateful to not post this, but at the same time I hate posting about this one. I went to the ER last Sunday due to pain I have been having for 4 days straight. The pain in something I have dealt with for the last 5 years and have medication to help. Well, meds didn't work!
They admitted me, transferred me to University of Utah hospital where they did a liver biopsy. we won't have results for 2 more weeks.
I can't remember the last week. I was in a morphine induced haze. I had no clue where my children were, no idea what I was texting to people, and definitely no clue what I was asking the nurses. (Apparently I wouldn't let a nurse give me medication until she showed me her armpits to make sure she shaves) Yes, I am freaky, no I don't remember it.
Luckily, Chad went into function mode. This is what he calls it. He makes our house function. Does it function like normal? Nope. Do I even want to ask questions? Nope again. BUT he does it. I think it gives him an appreciation for what Mom's have to do in a day, and what these two little kiddo's put on a plate. Finding places for the kids to go after school, finding someone to do a certain Princesses hair each morning, Add that to working (yes, he still had to work) worrying about his wife, and praying she doesn't say ANYTHING to make him want to crawl in a hole, and that was his week. He did a great job. A+

When I arrrived home I instantly went to my flowerbush and puked. After THAT I saw all these beautiful signs Kristin had hung up on the garage, in the kitchen, on the table. They were everywhere. Inside were beautiful flowers from Vannessa, and another arrangement from Kristin. Soon afterward another arrangement came from the school. They were all so beautiful! Then I heard all the kindness that people showed my kids, the meals people brought for us, and the love, cards, phone calls, I am still in awe.
Thank you to everyone who took time out of your own life to help me with mine. Its when we are at our low points that angels come out and lift us back up. I love you all, and thank you for being my angels!

Post #1--Cheer Clinic

2010-10-03T15:18:00.000-07:00

Kensey participated in a Cheer Clinic this year. Luckily, practice landed on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday while performing at halftime on Friday. You know because my week already consisted of Soccer on Monday, Football Tuesday and Thursday.....Why not add more to two of the days that didn't already have me running around every which way???
She loved it. Its her element. Jumping around, Cheering her heart out, Striking a pose. I enjoyed watching her, and even though our team lost, I think she was definitely a winner that night!

Emma, Sydney, and Kensey all had fun!

First day of School & First Soccer Game

2010-09-03T17:31:00.000-07:00

Where to start!
School started, again, unfortunately. I loved summer. My kids loved summer. I am finding me a house in warm weather to move into when the snow starts flying here.
First day of school went off without a problem. Since I am now working in the office, Chad walked to kids to school. I dont' think he ever has before, so it was a fun experience for him. He loved listening to all the girls comment about eachothers hair, clothes, shoes etc. He called me at work in a panic. When do they start wearing makeup? We got a few years......He was very relieved to hear that one.
Gus had all sorts of girls giving him googlie eyes. He can't even remember their names. He just had to check 12 times that his football was in his backpack. GOOD BOY. Let's keep it like that for a while!

Kensey also started soccer. I was nervous! Didn't know how my ballerina would fare going up against boys on the soccer field. No reason to worry. She did amazing. Scored a goal, had a blast, and can't wait for the enxt game. It can't get better then that?!?!

Football Practice (post #3!)

2010-08-20T19:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, you would think if I put football practice I would have pictures of Gus at football. Sorry. I have pictures of Mr. Bronson and the Gatorade. I love this kid! Every football practice he looks around and sees bottles and bottles of Gatorade. Who wants a bottle when there is Gatorade??
So I give him the Gatorade. I think Vannessa has learned not to put him in anything that she doens't want stained with the drink. I love being the Aunt. Messy them up, give them what they want, and send them home. Sounds about right.
He gets soooo excited when he sees the drink, and then he shoves his entire mouth into the lid and makes this noise. The best part is it echo's when he makes the noise, so he does it over and over. Of course, I laugh over and over. So it's even funnier to him. Get the cycle??
Two times a week, every week. It makes football practice a little more bearable~!

Welcome Baby Groves!

2010-08-20T19:06:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to have Chad get the phone call from Brice that his new baby was finally here! Brice and Sara have been married for about 15 years and haven't been able to have kids. They had an amazing story of a precious birth mother who knew that they were suppose to be the parents to the little boy that she was having. He came a day earlier then planned, but everything went very well.
I had bronchitis so I haven't been able to love on this little guy, but Chad went to the hospital and took these pictures of him.
I think anyone who goes into an adoption process, and anyone who loves their child enough to give them a loving mom and dad, stable home, and more then enough love, they are hero's in my book.
Welcome Home Nathan Groves. You are one lucky little guy!!!

Fish Lake 2010

2010-08-20T18:54:00.000-07:00

My sister posted her pictures. I'm posting my pictures. Where has this summer gone? I think after I finished to bed, I decided to forgo my blog. Hopefully I will be better.
We had over 80 family members at Fish Lake this year. I counted and we have 110 total in the Linford Family. Makes me stop to think about the saying, "ALL BECAUSE TWO PEOPLE FELL IN LOVE!"
I love my family and I am so grateful to get to go and spend a few days with Aunts, Uncles, cousins, brothers, sisters, and parents!
The bad part was Kensey got sick and was puking for an entire night. We had a puking night hangover the next day, but after that it was great! 4th place in the dutch oven cook-off. I would've been higher, but my dessert was GONE and not everyone got a chance to taste its fantastic-ness!
I am already excited for next year.

my 10 dollar treasure!

2010-07-27T10:14:00.000-07:00

I love yard sales. I know it sounds quite ghetto to admit it, but I do! Probably because I refuse to spend full price on anything. I love finding treasures and bringing them home. I usually just get books. I always need a book, so this way I spend a quarter and I don't mind if I end up hating the book or loving it.
Well, last Saturday I went to a yard sale and found this full size bed.

It has 4 drawers on both sides plus the awesome headboard!

When we moved into our house Kensey got the new bed, mattress, bigger room, etc. Gus was fine with a hand me down bed.

I saw this, and knew I had to get it for him!

IT WAS ONLY 10 DOLLARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The only thing it didn't have was a footboard, but I knew Chad could make one. He has enough stuff in the garage, I thought he could put it to use!

Chad wanted me to paint it. Why?? I'm still not quite sure, but OK! So I primed this baby using KILZ primer, then I spray painted it using Krylon Ivory Gloss. Then I antiqued it using Ralph Lauren Technique glaze tinted with black. Here are the results:

Here is the footboard that Chad put together. I think it looks awesome!

I love, love, love this headboard. I never even noticed the beadboard like back, but once it was painted it totally popped!

Then came the big problem. It wouldn't fit in Gus' room. Sooooooo, we switched rooms. However, Kensey's room was pink. Gus wasn't going for pink. We re-painted his room to match the NEW bedding we had to get for the full bed, which included needing to get a full size mattress.

Then we had to paint Kensey's new room to match her new bedding. Because how unfair is it that Gus gets all the new stuff???

I just kept wondering how my 10 dollar treasure had exploded into this massive project????

Here are some pictures of his new room, new bedding, new paint, etc. etc.

I found this bedding at Kohl's. I loved it! I think it works for him now, and as he gets bigger!

Kensey's bedding should arrive any day now. I will post pictures of her room transformation when it is complete! However, just last night Gus was using her curtain rod as a sword outside and broke the end. Now I will get to buy her a new rod, curtains, and a rug (but that is another story all together!)

Who is this girl?

2010-07-12T08:20:00.000-07:00

So I get a phone call. "MOM, I am singing at the park!!!"

"Sure you are."

"Come Down NOW!"

Ok, let me remind you that this is the girl who has absolute meltdowns getting in front of people. Singing in the church choir with 50 other kids, and she was a basket case. Singing with 7 other girls, she was a wreck.

Why would I think this time would be different?

I grabbed my camera, but I didn't grab my camcorder because I didn't want her to feel bad when she didn't get on stage and sing by herself to an entire park filled with strangers.

Well, that is exactly what she did!

Love Story, by Taylor Swift never sounded better. Chad was crying, I had the biggest perma-grin on. Kens found me in the audience and just focused on my smiling face. It was priceless.

We had called my mom on the phone so she could listen to her sing. She put her on speaker so that my dad could hear it also. When I talked to her after she said both my parents were crying listening to her.

Once again, she amazes me. I can't wait to see what she pulls out of her hat next!

Hanging with the Newell Kids

2010-06-28T09:04:00.000-07:00

While Jamie went to Girls Camp she asked if we could take some of her kids. We ended up with Afton, Saibyn, and Kossian. We had them for 2 days and had alot of fun with these girls. I miss having them live close by me!

We took them to our favorite spot in the summer, Deseret Peak Swimming! They all had such a good time. None of them wanted to leave. I can't blame them, I didn't really want to leave either.

The only part that really stunk was that Afton was the only one who couldn't go down the slide by herself. All of the others were finally big enough they can go over and over again without any help.

So, I did have to go down the slide with Afton, but after the first time I don't think she ever wanted to go again. She was holding on to my ankles. I kept trying to make her let go, and once she went head first into the water, she finally let go. She was done with the waterslide after that experience. Good, because I was too :)

Afton, Gus, Kensey, Kossi, Saibyn

Trying to dry off!

Happy Summer!!

Lava Hot Springs

2010-06-28T08:55:00.000-07:00

We went on vacation with Chad's family this month. We had been planning a trip to Lava Hot Springs since January. We rented out a place called the School House Inn. It was about 6 miles past Lava. It was a fun place. Especially if you have a big group of people. It very comfortably slept 15 people, and if we needed to we could've put even more people together in different arangements. Since not all of Chad's family was able to make it, it worked out just right for those of us that were there.

It was fun to take all the kids swimming, and play games back at the schoolhouse. I love that there wasn't any TV's, and we played card games and things like that. Just relaxing!

We never actually made it to the Hot Springs. I never quite understood that part. BUT the kids and everyone enjoyed themselves at the pool both days. Theres these slides that are really big, and you could hear Chad screaming all the way down! It was classic :)

Hunter and Andrew. They are only one week apart, and have a great time together!

This is the School House Inn Alex and Kensey. Best Cousins!

Chad having himself a little nap!

Just Dance

2010-06-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

Does anyone else own this game?

It is so incredibly FUN!!

For my birthday Chad invited some friends over for dessert. After we were all stuffed with calorie filled, fat food we decided to put in this new game.

WHAT A WORKOUT!

It was a riot. We got the 4 husbands downstairs and they took their turn. Chad was so fun to watch. Keith was the best out of the guys. He beat them everytime. Out of the girls, I can't even remember. I just know we all had our groove on, and were laughing our heads off.

If anyone has a WII, I would buy this game no matter what. Even Gus likes it.

Then everyone took some turns on this:

Our next favorite game.

Who says you can't have a good time even if its raining outside!

Peter Pan

2010-05-27T20:21:00.000-07:00

TOODLES the Skunk (Lost Boy) and Princess Tiger Lily

Tonight was the kiddo's play. Can i say PROUD MOMMY MOMENTS??

Oh my. I love these two kids. I love them sooooooo much. I think my face is frozen from smiling at them!

They perfomed at 6:00 and 7:00. I thought their 6:00 performance was the better one, Chad thought the 7:00 performance was, go figure.

Kensey wasn't nervous at all. I was worried that she might have a little stage fright. Nope, a star was born! She did her Indian Dance and said her parts perfectly.

Gus, was adorable. I have never wanted to hug a skunk, but he made me want to hug him forever.

Vannessa and the crew came to the 6:00 show, Aunt Kelli and Uncle Matt, and "grandma" Carla were able to watch the 7:00 show. They had plenty of fans in the audience. Afterwards we took them out to ColdStone to celebrate.

I was proud of all the hard work all the kids had put into this play. Play practice every single day after school for the month of May. LOTS of hours of practice, but it totally paid off.

WAY TO GO KIDS! YOU WERE AMAZING!

Kensey and her friend Jo behind the scenes.

End of Season

2010-05-26T13:07:00.000-07:00

I love when I see May show up on the calendar. Sooooo close to summer. Now that it's the end of May I am Sooooo glad to see it go Bye Bye!

We have finished up aerating, dance, football, our anniversary, a new great-niece, birthdays, Bon Vivant Dinner group, and tomorrow play practice will be done! I am exhausted from all the running around, and around we do. I am so proud of my kids, and all they accomplish. I love Chad more and more. He really is my rock that I lean on for everything.

Here is a picture a friend of mine took of Mr. Gus at his last game. He is deflecting a pass. He almost had it for an interception.

I love his face in this one!! It makes me laugh!!

BonVivant Mexican Style at Kristin's house. THE BEST FOOD. I love Mexican food. They went to Texas, and brought it all back. Truly authentic. YUMMMMMMMMM :)

GOOD BYE MAY! Until Next Year......

Bzzzzzzzz

2010-05-19T18:01:00.000-07:00

Kensey was in a Spelling Bee today for the 4th, 5th, and 6th graders. She was really nervous, but she did such a good job! She ended up in 2nd place!!!

I was so proud of her. She must get this gene from either myself or Chad. We are still debating which one that it would be.

Keep up the hard work sis, you have so much ahead of you!

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO ME!!!

2010-05-11T16:47:00.000-07:00

This has been a week of FABULOUSness for me! I have LOVED LOVED LOVED this Mother's Day!
Saturday I started out going on the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. A friend of mine has been a 3 year survivor of this horrible disease. I hate any kind of cancer. I admire anyone who has ever had to fight this battle. I would LOVE to see the day when cancer is erased from this world.

Christy, Vannessa, the cutest baby, and myself!

It was so amazing, all the different people that we saw!

There are people all the way to to mountain. OK, maybe not TO the mountain, but all the white on the street, yep that is people!

Kari, posting her 3 year survivor in the survivors parade. What an emotional moment that one was!

Cutest baby with his Find The Cure sticker

He finished his first 5k

After the race we hurried back home to watch my handsome devil win a game. FINALLY!! I was so excited for the Colts. It has been a long season, and I was so glad they finally got a win.

Then we went and bought me NEW FURNITURE. Yep, BRAND SPANKING NEW. New, new, new.

Kensey looks thrilled? What is up with that. She should be Ecstatic sitting on such a fine couch, and ottoman, but WAIT. That wasn't all!

Yeppers. Got the matching chair too.

Then on Sunday we got to go and spend the afternoon with all of my family. Had a great BBQ. Lots of yummy to my tummy food.

THEN!!!! Last night.......Row 2 Playoff Seats to watch my Utah Jazz get their bottoms kicked by this jerk:

That would be Kobe Bryant. That would be how close I was to him. Spending the night at that game with Chad, definitely the cherry on top of a fabulous week!

Happy Birthday Kensey!

2010-05-04T15:58:00.000-07:00

Double Digits.
Yep, we have hit the "double digits" stage.
I'm not sure I am OK with this new stage in life. Ready or not: HERE SHE COMES!
We were able to celebrate Kensey's birthday in typical Crane Fashion. Running all over the place all day long!
We started out at Lauren's baptism. It was great to see 3 kids in our ward get baptized. They all looked so beautiful and handsome. Then we hurried over to the Wardle's to get some grub! Then it was a rush to the football field. We watched our Colts go 0-5. Ya, we aren't having a good season in the wins department, BUT all the kids are having a lot of fun. Chad is retiring after this season. He can't take it!
As soon as the whistle blew for the game to end we loaded up the stuff and rushed (and I mean rushed) to the swimming pool where we had reserved a room. Kensey was able to have alot of her friends come and celebrate her day with her.
Here are some Kensey stats:
She is growing like crazy! Her legs are incredibly long. Where did that come from???
She loves little kids. She will be an amazing babysitter very soon.
She is taking a year off of dance. She is pursuing her athletic talents. Golf, this summer. Soccer, this fall and spring. Jr. Jazz, this winter. We will definitely have to keep everyone posted on this latest endeavor!
She loves to lay by me in bed and read. We are readers!
She loves Harry Potter Books. She just finished book 5. Hermione is her favorite character.
She makes me laugh! Just her being her.

She is really one special kid. I am so grateful to call her MINE!

Her swimming party friends!

Kensey and Syd having some fun!

Principals Pride

2010-04-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

Today BOTH of my kids were honored with the Principals Pride Award. Their teachers had nominated them, and they both got it the same week. They were super excited and very sad at the same time. Excited to get the award, SAD because Chad has been gone all week in Washington and he had to miss it!
What do you do? You call in the re-enforcements! Vannessa and Baby, and Kristin and Zachy all showed up at 9:00 to watch the assembly. It brought some tears to my eyes, how grateful I am to have such wonderful people in our lives. THANKS YOU GUYS!
Kensey's teacher wrote that she was impressed that Kensey got 100% on a VERY HARD Language Arts test. (I had to ask her teacher what language arts even was, to which she told me English. YA, that is Chad's and Grandma Wees' strong suit, she must carry their genes!) That she is also working really hard at asking the teacher when she has a question. --She usually is too embarassed to ask, and then comes home and has a mini-melt down, so we are all super happy with this progress-- and that she is a friendly girl!
Gus' teacher wrote that he is conscientious of everyone in his class. That he goes above and beyond in everything that he does. That everyone loves to be with him, and he doesn't exclude anyone. He is a friend to everyone. He has also never missed a single spelling word. 100% all year long! Funny thing is, he will tell you that Math is his best subject, not spelling.
KIDDOS, I LOVE YOU FOREVER AND ALWAYS! YOU MAKE IT SOOOOO EASY TO BE YOUR MOMMA! (most of the time!)

Gus and the Principal getting his award

Kensey and the principal getting her award

They could've cared less about the awards, they just wanted to fight over who gets the baby!

I love all these munchkins!

Thank You ladies for being there to support my kids (and me!)

One proud momma that is for sure!

He is HERE!

2010-04-14T17:34:00.000-07:00

This absolutely, postitively, most adorable baby finally made it HOME to Utah! Keith and Vannessa have been waiting for him to be able to be a part of their lives for 5 months. He has been in a fantastic foster home in Texas. You never hear of great foster-care stories very often, but this little guy was definitely blessed while we waited and waited.

He was finally able to arrive and make their sweet family complete.

Gus holding his new "cousin". Since these guys are just like our family my kids think we are cousins, Aunts, and Uncles. More loves to share that way!

Princess getting her first hug in. She had to wait ALL day to finish basketball and come over and love on him. *That is yellow gum in her mouth by the way :) We do brush**

Big brother Braxton. This little guy just laughed all day long. He is such an angel baby!

I love this little guy. I just held him, and held him. He is such a cutie.

Lynzee finally got him to take a little nap. He was passed around all day long. People kept coming to see this little miracle boy. One thing he won't be short of, and that is people who love him!

Saturday CHAOS

2010-04-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

Does anyone else feel like their Saturdays are just crazy busy? Our Saturdays are jam packed starting in April and going into May. Chad and I always try to have a little get-away by the time June rolls around to see if we still remember each others names anymore.
The first adventure that started up was FOOTBALL. Chad is the coach of Gus' team this year. They are the Colts. We lost our opener by 1 point. Chad almost had a heart attack on the sidelines. He is really quite the showman at these games. I love watching Chad almost as much as I love watching Gus.

One stinking point!

Then it was time for Vannessa's Baby Shower. She had a lot of people come, and got some great gifts.

We had some great food: tortilla chicken wraps, mango salsa and chips, artichoke dip and crackers, sticky buns, eclair cake, brownies, fruit, veggie tray, slush........It was yummy to my tummy!

all the presents!

Grandma Wees and Princess. Yes, my mom found some Diet Coke.

While I was hosting this shower Chad was doing his favorite thing in the world HAA HAA.....He had fired up the aerator and was aerating lawns with Brice. HE HATES THE AERATOR. He wishes it would blow up, but its some good extra money.

Grandpa Jim took Gus golfing and to Carls Jr for dinner. We all got done and in bed by 11:00 that night. Next couple of weeks we will add in dance competitions and even more running around.

Naufahu Tahi #38

2010-04-08T18:59:00.000-07:00

Today we got to meet Naufahu Tahi. Better known as Fahu Tahi. Still in the dark? He is #38 on the Minnesota Vikings, position Full Back.
His cousin lives out by us, and he was in town visiting. He was very gracious and came and signed all the flag football kids jerseys and posed for pictures. It was fun because he use to play high school ball with our good friend Keith. It was fun watching him see Keith again. He also played college football at BYU. Putting him right at the top on Andrew's chart!
It was a great way for the kids to see someone who actually makes millions of dollars and plays in the NFL. That this really is something that any of them can acheive. Well, any of them that gets to be as big as this guy!

Chad's team with Tahi

Kensey, Syd, and Gabe with Tahi. These girls were loving being marked by an NFL player. Oh boy!

Keith and his co-worker posing for a picture for the newspaper.

he signed the corner of Gus' jersey. He wrote BYU rocks on all the players who love BYU.

Where did March go?

2010-04-04T13:03:00.000-07:00

Where is March? I swear it was just the beginning a few days ago. Now we are well into April. Wow!
We had a fun filled March, and it leads right into our busy months of April and May.
Dance competition, Football practices, Chad's Birthday WOW 38!, Spring Break, Tons and Tons of SNOW, Kensey got all her hair cut off in the cutest A-line ever, lots of fun!
We had Easter today, and the kids were once again excited by the Easter Bunny. He hid lots of eggs and brought them a basket filled with goodies. They each got a new book which I think the Easter Bunny is a genius for doing that ;)
Busy as ever, but having a great time!

Some of our bright colored eggs

getting the final eggs

looking all over for those hidden eggs!

We have been able to stay at home and watch conference and just have an enjoyable weekend. Sad that Spring Break ends tomorrow. Back to work we go, YUCK!

I want spring. NOW!!

2010-03-13T17:06:00.000-08:00

This is what it looked like outside our house today. Chad had to shovel a little pathway for LeeLu to go outside to go potty. I think we have 6-8 inches. It is piling up on MY GRASS! I had a full lawn that I was able to look at, and I was even thinking about maybe planting some peas in our garden about now.
I HATE SNOW. If Chad told me we were moving to somewhere that NEVER snowed, I would be gone. Out of here. Now I need the sun to come melt all this away, and bring back the warmth. SERIOUSLY.
**On a funny note** My neighbor Bevan, snow blows my driveway for me everytime it snows. He is 80. I love him. BUT Chad feels like he needs to shovel it all if he is home. Here is what Chaddy is shoveling. I will never understand this either.

Male Pride. In Chad's defense Bevan did try to come over and snow blow, but he said he would have to wait until tomorrow because the snow is way too heavy and wet. Chad took this as a great opportunity to go out and shovel. I can already hear how sore his shoulders are going to be for the next two weeks. I just need a tan!

Another Student Of The Month

2010-02-25T14:56:00.000-08:00

Princess Kensey was Student Of The Month this month. We were able to totally surprise her with it! Grandma Wees was able to drive out and watch the program which was awesome. I loved having my mom there to watch it with me. Chad was also able to come and watch the program and surprise Kensey too.
She has worked so hard to earn this award. It is something that she has wanted so badly, and was so excited to get this certificate. She was able to get a gift card to Applebee's, Del Taco, and Burger King. We went to dinner at Applebee's last night!
I am soooooo proud of you Princess. I love you more then you will ever know!

After the surprise

Getting ready to get her picture taken

Congratulations Sis! Love you, baby girl!

Ophir Fun

2010-02-21T17:29:00.000-08:00

We got a phone call from a lady in our neighborhood inviting us to go to her "cabin" and go sledding on Saturday. I looked at the calendar and we didn't have anything going on after the Jr. Jazz game, so I said SURE we would love to go!
Where is it at? I asked. In OPHIR. Ok, I have no idea where Ophir is located. I hear people talk about Ophir, I hear about these amazing "cabins" in Ophir. I had no idea what it was like there.
To sum it up, Ophir is a street in a canyon that has these amazing "cabins" going up it, and an incredible park. Unfortunately, the park was covered in a few feet of snow, but we will definitely be up there this summer.
I keep calling the dwellings there "cabins". They aren't "cabins". When I think of cabin I think of two small rooms, maybe a bathroom, a tiny little kitchen to heat up the left over fish in.
These are filled with stainless steel appliances, tiled bathrooms, Plasma TV's..........the works. I will take any of these any day!
We were able to have SO MUCH FUN sledding. The kids had a ton of fun, we had some great laughs, and it was perfect weather.'
Thanks Englands, we had a blast!

Kensey and I surfing on the sleds!

The back of the "cabin" and Kensey sliding down the hill

Chad biffed it off the trail (on purpose) it was funny

Gus getting himself going!

Bon Vivant 12---January dinner

2010-02-17T14:55:00.000-08:00

I am part of a group of fabulous women who get together every other month and have a "gourmet" dinner. There are 12 of us and we each have a partner in crime :) Basically 6 partnerships, each doing one dinner, equals alot of fun!
In January Rachel and Tiffany kicked it off with an Italian dinner night. They had wonderful food that I would never order, never eat, never even think of having. BUT since I had it I LOVED IT! It got me out of my "McDonald's world" box that I live in.
Tiffany has a friend in Salt Lake who goes completely overboard with their gourmet group. We are doing a MUCH scaled down version. It was just a great way for us to get together and have a fabulous meal that we otherwise would never get.
The main rule for Bon Vivant recipes is this: NO CREAM OF CHICKEN! haa haa But seriously, that is kind of a rule. We wanted gourmet meals. Gourmet meal settings. No paper, LINENS. You get the idea.
I am going to post the recipes that Tiffany posted for the meal they made. You will get what this about then!

~Bevande ~ (beverage)

Cranberry Lime Bellini ~ The Rachel & Tiffany concoction!
Mix:
Cranberry Juice
Sierra Mist
Lime Sherbet
Garnish punch bowl with lime slices

~Antipasti ~ (before meal)

Tiffany’s Italian Stuffed mushrooms
1 package large mushrooms (your choice) washed, remove trimmed stems and chop fine w/remaining mushrooms.
3-4 T. butter or olive oil
3 green onions, whites & partial green, sliced
2 slices white bread, tear into small pieces
¼ cup Italian bread crumbs
3 oz. cream cheese
Sautee mushrooms in 3-4 tablespoons butter, 3-4 minutes. Add remaining ingredients. Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese until melted. Add extra seasonings to taste: Italian seasoning, garlic/onion powder, parmesan cheese. Fill each mushroom w/heaping teaspoon of filling into each mushroom. Top with Italian blend grated cheese. Drizzle with a little extra butter. Bake at 350* for 25 min. or until warmed through & browned.

Fried Ravioli w/Marinara
Olive oil for frying (bring to frying temp med, med-hi)
1 bag frozen or fresh cheese ravioli
1 cup butter milk
2 cups Italian bread crumbs
¼ c. grated parmesan cheese

Thaw ravioli slightly. Pour buttermilk over ravioli. Coat one at a time in bread crumbs. Fry until ravioli floats or browned. Drain on paper towel & sprinkle with grated parm cheese. Serve warm-Enjoy with warmed marinara sauce

Pyhllo Wrapped Asaparagus – Paula Deen

8 or 9 asparagus spears, depending on size
1/2 (16-ounce) package frozen phyllo dough sheets, thawed
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus. Unwrap the phyllo and cut the stack in half lengthwise. Reserve 1 stack for later use. Cover the phyllo with a damp towel to keep it from drying out. Take 1 sheet of phyllo and brush lightly with some melted butter. Sprinkle with some Parmesan. Place 2 to 3 asparagus spears on the short end of the sheet. Roll up, jelly-roll style. Place each piece, seam side down, on a baking sheet. Brush with more melted butter and sprinkle with more Parmesan. Repeat until all the asparagus spears are used up. Place baking sheet in oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Pancetta Bites
On a tooth pick, skewer:
1 inch green onion (green part)
1 Kalamata olive wrapped in fresh mozzarella
1 water chestnut wrapped in pancetta (Italian bacon)
(1 can water chestnuts, drained. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Wrap each water chestnut in pancetta, or bacon, and bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until pancetta is crispy.)

Artichoke & Tomato Panzenella – Giada De Laurentiis

1 (10-ounce) package frozen artichoke hearts, thawed, approx 2 cups (We used canned artichokes)
3 cups whole-wheat bread, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces (we used Albertsons bakery: Sliced Labrea Whole Grain)
3 large, red tomatoes, cut into wedges (We used 1 basket grape tomatos)
1 cup pitted black olives, halved (we used the jumbo size)
3/4 cup chopped, fresh basil leaves (about 1 bunch)
2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
Directions
Place a grill pan over medium-high, or preheat a gas or charcoal grill— (We used the broiler oven). Drizzle the bread and artichoke hearts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the bread and artichokes until golden brown at the edges, about 6 minutes total, turning every 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the bread and artichokes from the grill and transfer to a large bowl.
Add the tomatoes, olives and basil to the bowl and toss to combine. In a small bowl stir together the 2/3 cup olive oil, white wine vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss to combine and serve immediately. (We reserved the dressing so that the bread wouldn’t get soggy, great leftovers!)

LORRIE’S BREAD
4 cups warm water
1/2 c sugar
2 T yeast
proof the yeast for 1/2 hour
1/2 c. veg oil
hand full of salt (2 1/2 Tbsps)
Add to yeast mixture and wire whisk til all incorporated
MIX IN: add 2 to 3 cups flour at at time until can’t stir with wooden spoon (up 8-10)
and then sprinkle work surface with flour and and knead & add more flour as needed until it’s smooth elastic (no longer sticky).
rease bowl and put the dough in and let rise (in oven) for 45 min.
After 45 min. take it out and punch it down
divide into four sections and put into greased bread pans & let rise for 1 hour.
Bake at 350* for 1/2 hour.

~Primi~
“Tuscan dining is simplicity perfected!”
“Maio” Family Rigitoni & Rachel’s Cucina Pane (Italian bread- using her family recipe)
Rigitoni:
Mix in a sauce pan and bring to boil:
1 small can Contadina tomato paste + 1 can h2o
3 small (8oz) can Contadina tomato sauce + 3 cans h2o
2-3 cloves freshly minced garlic
2-3 Tbsp. sugar (cuts acidity)
add to taste: salt, pepper, garlic & onion salt or powder, oregano, basil, thyme.
Grated parmesan cheese (Kraft) Enough to cover surface of sauce.
In a crockpot or large pot on stove, place 4-5 chicken legs or thighs with skin and bone + 3-4 chicken reasts. Pour sauce over chicken. Simmer approx. 4-5 hrs. Skim fat as desired.
Discard skin, bones & shred chicken, return to pot. Cook rigatoni (stove pipe shaped noodles) according to package. Add pasta to chicken and sauce- let simmer for 30 minutes. Garnish with grated Italian cheese blend

~Dolici~

White Chocolate Tiramisu
White Chocolate Cream :
1/2 cup milk
4 ounces good quality white chocolate, broken into pieces
1/4 cup sugar
8 ounces mascarpone or cream cheese
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup raspberry liqueur (creme de cassis) or raspberry-flavored syrup
16 very thin slices sponge or angel food cake (we used homemade pound cake, recipe below)
4 tablespoons grated bittersweet or semisweet chocolate
8 whole strawberries
Chocolate Leaves, for garnish:
1/2 cup grated semisweet chocolate
8 firm, fresh, clean leaves (be sure they are nonpoisonous or lemon leaves work well- we used clean silk leaves)
6 ounces whole raspberries
4 strawberries, halved
Directions
To make the white chocolate cream: heat the milk over low-medium heat until bubbles form around the edges of the saucepan. Place the white chocolate pieces in a small bowl and pour the hot milk over. Whisk until the chocolate is completely melted.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk the sugar into the mascarpone. Set aside. In a small, chilled bowl, whip the cream with the vanilla until soft peaks form (do not overbeat.) Whisk the white chocolate mixture into the mascarpone. Fold in the whipped cream. The texture should be like lightly whipped cream; if it doesn’t “flow”, thin the mixture slightly by stirring in some milk, 1 tablespoon at a time.

Spoon the liqueur evenly over the cake slices. Place 1 slice of cake in the bottom of each goblet. Spoon half of the cream mixture over the cake slices (about 2 1/2 tablespoons for each slice.) Sprinkle each with 1/2 tablespoon of the grated chocolate. Slice 8 strawberries and place some slices over the chocolate in each goblet. Repeat the cake, cream and chocolate layers. Refrigerate for 4 to 8 hours.

To make the chocolate leaves: line a plate with waxed paper. In a double boiler over low heat, melt the grated semisweet chocolate. Remove the chocolate from the heat. Using a pastry brush, spread the underside of each leaf with a layer of chocolate. Place the painted leaves, chocolate side up, on the prepared plate. Freeze until the chocolate is set. Carefully peel the leaf off the chocolate, handling the chocolate leaf as little as possible. Return the leaves to the freezer if the chocolate is melting.

Just before serving, top each tiramisu with raspberries and garnish each with a strawberry half and chocolate leaves.

ITALIAN SANDWICH COOKIES
The polenta experience
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/italian-chocolate-sandwich-cookie-recipe/index.html
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (2 sticks)
2/3 cup sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornmeal or polenta
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 orange, zested
Orange Filling:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (1 stick) (we used ¼ c. salted butter and 4 oz. cream cheese)
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 orange, zested (we added 1 tsp vanilla)
Pinch salt

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
To make the Chocolate Cookies, in a large bowl use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugar until light in color and fluffy. In another medium bowl stir together the flour, cornmeal or polenta, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and orange zest. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and stir to combine using a wooden spoon. Place the dough on a sheet of plastic wrap. Press the dough into a 1-inch high round. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 day.

Roll out the dough to between 1/8 and 1/4-inch thick. Use a 1 3/4-inch round cookie cutter to cut out the dough. Bake on a heavy baking sheet for 15 minutes. Place the baking sheets on a wire rack to cool cookies.

Meanwhile, to make the Orange Filling, combine the butter, powdered sugar, orange zest, and salt in a medium bowl. Use an electric mixer to cream the ingredients together.

To assemble the cookie sandwiches, place about 1 teaspoon of the Orange Filling on a cookie. Top with another cookie and press the cookies together. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.

Buno Appetito

I EVEN LEFT ONE RECIPE OUT!!!!

DO YOU SEE WHAT I AM TALKING ABOUT?!!?! FABULOUS!

For my Momma-Valentine~

2010-02-07T14:11:00.000-08:00

Where have I been hiding??
Well, my new camera that I got for Christmas is a *^$*#^$*)*! Translated, that means every picture I take is blurry. I am sooooo not happy with it right now.
I always think I need pictures. Then I saw on my friend Jenny's blog this little story. I had to copy and paste it on mine.

A Newborn's Conversation with God

A baby asked God, "They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow,

but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?"

God said, "Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you."

The child further inquired, "But tell me, here in heaven I don't have

to do anything but sing and smile to be happy."

God said, "Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you.

And you will feel your angel's love and be very happy."

Again the small child asked, "And how am I going to be able to understand

when people talk to me if I don't know the language?"

God said, "Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words

you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will

teach you how to speak."

"And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?"

God said, "Your angel will place your hands together and will teach

you how to pray."
"Who will protect me?"
God said, "Your angel will defend you even if it means risking its life."
"But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore."
God said, "Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach

you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you."

At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth

could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, "God, if I am to leave

now, please tell me my angel's name."

God said, You will simply call her, "Mom."

***Wipe my happy tears***
That is dedicated to my absolute, worlds best, most fantastic, beautiful, funny, amazing Mom. She truly is an angel to me, and I love her with all my heart. She has been my Valentine all my life! Love you Momma Mia.

Graduation Day

2010-01-18T16:09:00.000-08:00

Today while I was in the shower Kensey kept coming in and asking me questions. "Where are the scissors?" "Where are some plastic cups?" "Where is a metal hanger?" Ok, that one got my attention.
I get out to go and investigate what she is up to. She saw on a cover of the magazine The Friend awhile ago, someone had made a pulpit out of these things and she wanted one also. She used my Snuggie as her graduation gown, and her and Andrew made each other diplomas. I had the best part to add. I went to my cedar chest and dug around for a minute. Then I found it. My graduation cap. Chad is still in shock that I had it. He threw his away the day after graduation. Yep, I kept it.
Here are some pix of the kids playing Graduation Day. It really was cute!

Kensey giving her speech

Andrew, amazed that he graduated

Way to go kids! Can't wait for the real day!!

Happy Birthday Gus!

2010-01-14T16:41:00.000-08:00

My baby is 7. Life just keeps happening. Unavoidable I guess. It makes me smile, and sometimes it makes me cry, but I am grateful everyday for this little guy.

He doesn't want to hold my hand very much anymore. He refuses to hold my hand at school. He makes sure all the doors of the car are closed when he tells me that he loves me, and if the doors are open he whispers, "I love you" very quietly. BUT he will still hold my hand every time he sits by me to watch a movie, when he sleeps by me on Friday nights before Chad gets home and puts him back in his bed, he ALWAYS has to have my hand. Every night he tells me that he loves me, and he is still the world's greatest cuddler. He is trying to be a gentleman, and will open the doors for me and Kensey. He also will attack us with Kung Fu moves that knock the air out of our lungs, and wrestle us to the ground. He is reading at a 6th grade level. It amazes me to listen to him read. He grew over 3 inches in the last year. If you see him he will probably have a notebook with him. No, he isn't writing a novel, he is making a book full of football plays. I didn't think his obsession with football would be able to increase. I was wrong. He is a full fledge fan of Chicago Bears, Indianapolis Colts, BYU football, U of U football, honestly, any football. He is #47 on his Jr. Jazz Team. Andre Kirelenko and Gus. Fabulous. His teacher says he is a leader in his classroom. All the kids want to be like him, with him, around him. I don't blame them, I feel the same way.
The point is: He is an amazing, smart, funny, loving, and one of kind kid. I couldn't want anything more.

This is what he does all day long. Stands on his head. Strange.

His nerf blaster. His favorite gift was from Grandma Wees. Madden NFL 10 for the WII.

Spoiled Rotten.

Christmas 2009

2010-01-03T16:00:00.000-08:00

Where have I been hiding? It's Christmas Break. I should've had all sorts of time on my hands!

Well, I did, and I enjoyed being with my kids every second of these two weeks.

Not even any Christmas posts. Now I have to join the kids and go "BACK" tomorrow. It's going to kick our butts!

Needless to say, we were once again overly blessed this year. Santa Claus didn't forget where we lived and delivered us BandHero. Chad and I love BandHero even more then the kids.

Little did Santa know that we would need another WiiMote to have a singer. Yep, Wal-Mart the day after Christmas to spend 55 more dollars. Oh well. Its Christmas right? Keep telling myself that.

Here are our favorite gifts:

Kensey: besides GuitarHero......her U of U blanket and beanie hat

Gus: GuitarHero....besides GuitarHero.....Did I get anything else?? Oh brother!

Steph: I LOVE THE MIRROR MY MOMMA GOT ME!! I have wanted a mirror for my bathroom for about 10 million years, and I sorta mentioned it while my mom was Christmas shopping that I WANT A MIRROR FOR MY BATHROOM JUST LIKE HERS! She got the subtle hint :) It magnifies on one side so I can pluck my eyebrows everyday.....I also got some wall deco for my room that I am loving!

Kensey thinks they look like fireworks, Gus thinks they look like dandelions.

Chad:

He has spent ALOT of time with BandHero, but I surprised him and got him a year membership to the indoor pool so he can get back into his high school swim shape. All that's missing is his speedo from back in the day! He has went everyday, and is loving it.

It was a fabulous Christmas, and a great New Year. Can't wait to see what 2010 brings!

The Cheetah vs. The Sloth

2010-01-03T15:47:00.001-08:00

Gus' class performed the play The Cheetah vs. The Sloth. Its roughly based on The Tortoise vs. The Hare, but with New and Improved characters.
Gus wanted to be the sports announcer soooo badly.
Yep, he was able to be the sports announcer. This is actually a job I could see him doing in real life. We had to put together a "sports announcer" outfit and help him practice his lines. The class did a great job, and I personally think he stole the show. I am a little prejudice though :)

I think he looks like a sports announcer.

Who's BAD?

2009-12-15T19:30:00.000-08:00

Last night Kensey did her Winter Performance with her dance group. They had a tribute night to Michael Jackson. I remember being in 5th grade and getting the Thriller cassette tape for my birthday and listening to it in my red ghetto blaster. Oh ya, those were the days!
Kensey was able to dance in 4 different dances, and as usual, the girl did an amazing job. I am really glad that we have put her with this new dance group. She is advancing so much more, and she is able to dance in a way that is completely her.
I think the instructors like her also. She was front and center in all of her dances!
They picked 5 girls to do a lip-sync dance and Kensey was one of the 5. She had to wear an afro-wig, and she wasn't quite sure if she was going to like that or not. I think the fact that no one realized it was her made her OK to wear it. After the concert, Gus had NO PROBLEM sportin' around the afro.

They did dances to BAD, Black and White, Beat It, ABC 123, and of course THRILLER. I love to watch her dance. Have I mentioned that about a thousand times before??
I was so grateful that Vannessa and family was able to make it to the performance. Once again, living so far from family I am very grateful for my friend-family. Kensey calls them Aunt Vannessa and Uncle Keith. That is what they are! Thanks guys for coming, it meant the world to me (and her!)

This is the platform that she stood on to do her dance/lip-sync. She also received a trophy.

Hip, Hip Hooray......We survived another year of dance!

Chorus Performance

2009-12-15T19:21:00.000-08:00

December has been a crazy month for us, but that is nothing new. Something that is new is that Kensey joined chorus at school. She loves to sing. For months she went 3 days a week to school early, and practiced all sorts of songs.
The night of the concert they all did an amazing job. They sang BELIEVE from The Polar Express, and they also signed it. It brought some tears to my eyes.
I am proud of her, that she tries all sorts of things, and that she makes it fun. Her teacher was fun to watch, but there were some boys that stole the show. Gus kept asking when can he join the choir?? I think he just wants to be on a stage and ham it up like these boys were doing. It was fun night!

24 hours McDonalds

2009-12-04T20:36:00.000-08:00

Chad was working tonight and I looked at the clock and it was already 7:00 and no dinner. I said to the kids lets go to McD's and grab a burger.
As I was getting my shoes on this is the conversation between Kensey and Andrew. Remember Kensey is 9, and Andrew is 6. She gets her total blonde moments from her father :)
Kensey: Did you know McDonalds is open all the time?
Andrew: It never closes?
Kensey: No, it is open 24 hours a day.
Andrew: Wow, I didn't know that!
Kensey: I feel bad for those workers.
Andrew: Why?
Kensey: They must be so tired. They NEVER get to sleep. Its like they would live there. If its always open they can't go home, they just have to work.
Andrew: They work in shifts.
Kensey: They do? Like what?
Andrew: They have 2 people and one works 10 hours and the other one works 14.

At that point I am laughing out loud. First, how did my 6 year old instantly come up with knowing the 10+14=24 part? The rest was just pure entertainment.

When we got to McD's they looked at the workers to wonder if they were on the 10 or the 14 hour shift. Good times!

Attitude of Gratitude

2009-11-29T19:23:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. I love that for a day we get to spend it with family, friends, and people we love.
That we aren't being consumed with what we "bought" for each other. That we don't have to worry about costumes. That all the commercialization that seems to go with every single holiday out there is avoided.
Its a day to show gratitude, love, appreciation, and realize all the tender mercies that have been given to me throughout the year.
This year has been a truly Crazy Crane Family Year. Changes seemed to be knocking on our door every month this year. Some I handle more graciously then others, but all of them have been for my good. All of them have helped me to grow and become the person I am.
I have a husband who makes me laugh. At the end of the day, I can look at him and know that I love him, and that he loves me too.
Two kids who make me grateful everyday that all I ever wanted to be was a MOM. There are days (and some weeks) that I have to keep reminding myself of this, but they are my greatest treasures I will ever posess. They give me happiness, peace, and love.
Parents who help me every single day. My mom is a diamond in my life. Without her I would be lost. They have both helped me in so many ways, and I know that no matter what they will always love me. No matter what stupid thing I have done, and at my happiest moments I know they will be there.
Living away from my family I have gained friendships that I also couldn't function without. When you don't have family close by you learn to rely on great friends. I am surrounded by women that I treasure with all my heart. Who love my kids, who would be at my aide in a zippy, and who most of all just let me be me.
The greatest gift I have is knowing that I will be able to be with all these great people for eternity. That I have been blessed with the opportunity to know that I can have an eternal family. That all the love I have for all these people is nothing compared to the love that my Savior and Father in Heaven has for all of us. That on this great holiday of THANKSGIVING I can share my love for all, and take this moment to realize that I should always try and have an attitude of gratitude.
Happy Thanksgiving!

Beauty Is.....

2009-11-22T15:03:00.000-08:00

This year the reflections theme was "Beauty Is....." Both the kids entered in photography. Except they don't pronounce it photography. Its so cute, they call it Photo-graph-ee. They each got an invitation in the mail that said their entries had won an award. They didn't know if it was a 1st place, or an honorable mention. All night Gus kept saying, "When is it time for the winners of photo-graph-ee?" FINALLY, it was time. Kensey was given an honorable mention. She got a 5 dollar gift card to WalMart and a certificate. She took a picture of the lake that we have across the street from our house. The leaves were just beginning to change colors in the canyon and she got those with some fishermen that were fishing that day. She said that Beauty Is In My Backyard. It was a great picture. Then they announced Gus' age bracket and he took 1st place. When he heard his name he went bolting up to the stage and did this victory dance. It was like someone yelled, "Andrew Crane come on down your the next contestant on The Price Is Right!" He had everyone cracking up. He took a picture of a flag that we saw hanging in someones yard when the two of us had gone for a walk one day in South Jordan. He said that Beauty Is Freedom. He got a 15 dollar gift card, his picture will go to the State competition and his favorite part was the trophy!
When I got home to download the pictures I was soooo mad at myself. I didn't have my card in my camera so none of them worked. I had the kids take pictures of each other today for the blog, so thats what you get to see.
Congratulations kids. You had fun, you did a great job, and you both amaze me everyday!

Gus also went to the Jazz game last night, so he is showing off his tattoo of the Jazz.

Yep, she is in her P.J's....Its Sunday and she IS my daughter!

Influenza A

2009-11-16T12:24:00.000-08:00

Being the Mom that I am, as soon as flu shots were available I packed up the kiddos and we hurried down to the health department and got our vaccination. I am prepared. I am NOT letting anyone in this house get sick.
I am eating those thoughts right now.
Gus spiked a fever over the weekend.
He can't be sick I thought. Chad leaves to Washington this week. I can't have someone who has to be home, and I have to work. One of those things that all working moms get to deal with, and I haven't had to even think about.
Took him in to the pediatricians office. They weren't sure if it was strep throat or the flu. You know what that means? Yep, TWO swabs. When Gus was little he would beg to get swabs (I don't have a clue why) He thought they were some badge of coolness. The badge of coolness has been destroyed. He is now normal, and HATES even the word swab.
I tried to explain that they were going to tickle him. Tickle his nose (which actually feels like someone shoving barbed wire to your brain.) Tickle his throat (which actually feels like someone gagging you with ear cleaners) He thought a tickle sounded fun. Then Nurse Cratchet came in and said LETS SWAB. Stupid lady.
We got him swabbed. Strep--negative. Influenza---positive.
They don't test for the H1N1 because it takes 6 days to get the results back, and its treated the exact same way as the flu. Thank heavens for TamiFlu.
His fever was gone the next day, and he has a "get out of school for up to 7 days" card. One more day off of school, and he will be able to go back if the fever stays away.
Sooooo glad I hurried and got us vaccinated. Sooooo glad I have been giving Chad grief for 2 months that he should've went and got it too.
The doctor did say since we got the vaccine his case probably wouldn't be nearly as bad as someone who hadn't been vaccinated. I will give them credit for that.
Luckily, I have an amazing job. Where a ton of kids and staff are all sick. Its in the air. Beware.
By the way, his fever is gone, he is doing head stands, and I can tell he is almost back to himself. Luckily it hasn't been bad. I was just feeling VERY overwhelmed Saturday, but I see the light.
NOW NO ONE ELSE BETTER GET SICK!!!!

Daddy Daughter Prom night

2009-11-09T17:13:00.000-08:00

Tonight Chad got to take his Princess to the Prom. Ahhhhhh. The high school drill team sponsored a DADDY DAUGHTER PROM NIGHT at the high school. After school we got Kensey all ready, got her hair all done up, waited for Chad to get home. She had picked his outfit out already (completely color coordinated of course!) and off they went.
Of course I had to get some pictures. What would a prom be without all the pictures. Kensey was the one saying NO MORE PICTURES. I just laughed, and told her JUST WAIT until it's your high school prom. I will be in a picture taking craze!

Waiting for her King to arrive.

She loves to stike a pose!

I am just very grateful that Chad is such a good sport about these things. Kensey is one lucky girl to have such an awesome daddy!

Dumb and Stupider

2009-11-07T17:22:00.000-08:00

I think I have mentioned this before, but in case you don't know Gus has a bestest bud, Bryson. They have been bestest buds since birth. I have absolutely loved watching these two grow up. Since Mr. Gus doesn't have any brothers of his own Bryson fits the part perfectly.
Now the thing with these two (and most little boys for that matter) is:
1. They are either soooo loud I need them to go outside or downstairs OR
2. They are sooooo quiet that I know they are being little naughty britches
Last week Bryson was over here playing and I looked at Chad and said, "I don't hear the boys."
He gave me that look. I gave him that look right back. Off we went on an adventure to see what these two were up too.
I hear Chad whispering to me, "Get the camera!"
Do I really want too?????

I look out and this is what I see.
They had been breaking the jack 'o laterns in half and were becoming the pumpkins themselves. Their hair was covered with pumpkin guts. Their clothes stunk horribly. They had the giggles so bad they couldn't stop laughing!

Chad asked them who was going to clean it all up.......They yelled, "DUMB AND STUPIDER!!" Then they argued over which one GOT to be stupider. I guess its a boy honor to not just be dumb but to be stupider.

Here they are on Halloween, they don't get cuter then these two. Just wait a few years. We are going to be in TROUBLE

Color Me Mine

2009-11-02T13:53:00.000-08:00

The kids had two days off of school, and I got two days off of work. One of the many great perks of working at the school!

We headed up to spend a few days with my parents. There is a store in Park City called Color Me Mine. You go in, get an apron, pick out what you want to paint, get yourself some paint, and have a great time! Kensey did a vase and Andrew did a giant fish. They are Christmas gifts, so if you get it act like you didn't know it was for you!

They fire them in a kiln and you get to pick them up the next day. They said they have a Friday night special for kids: 35$ a kid: they get dinner, a movie and a ceramic project up to 18 dollars. Ok, can they come out to my town? I think my kidlets would be there every Friday night.

They both had so much fun, and it is definitely somewhere we will go back too.

My mom said that she thinks me, Kelli, and her should go one day. I am all for that!

Halloween Carnival

2009-10-29T09:07:00.001-07:00

Me and Gus all dressed up!

We had our elementary schools annual Halloween Carnival last night. It was a great success. Lots, and lots of kids came with their cute costumes on. There are some really clever parents out there, that is for sure!
Now that I work in the front office I got to do tickets all night. I needed a costume, and the carnival planner suggested the pirate. I had the shirt, boots, bandana, and make-up. She got me the awesome leather pants, scarf, and eye patch. NO ONE knew who I was, I LOVED IT! Gus put on one of his football uniforms and he was in heaven. Kensey was a dead dancer. Her pictures were too dark to post. I will get more of her on Halloween. Chad got to help with the food this year. His idea of dressing up was wearing safety gloves. I do like in the picture how it says he is HOT right behind him though :)
We had a parade, cake walk, spook alley, tons of food, and everyone had a smile.
When it was over Kensey asked if she could have a late over. I told her no, that it was midnight. She pointed out it was only 7:00. It felt like midnight. I really am getting old!

Pumpkins, pumpkins

2009-10-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

Last year Chad and I were apparently great big party poopers and we didn't carve pumpkins. I don't remember the reasons why, but my kids remember that we didn't. Last night we went and bought pumpkins and put our carving skills to the test. As I was cutting out the mouth of my pumpkin (It was 6:45 p.m.) my eyes kept closing. I couldn't keep them open. I told Chad I was going to go lay down for a minute. My alarm woke me up at 7:00 a.m. Think I was tired?
Anyways, glad Chaddy is such a great dad and took care of the night for me! He got the kids finished up with their pumpkins and then they watched the rest of Harry Potter 2. Kensey has been really into Harry Potter books, and she had just finished book 2. Its been fun to watch the movies right after she finishes the book.
Kensey cleaning out the guts!
Mr. Gus' turn
Gus and Kensey's pumpkins. Bet its hard to figure out whos is whos :)
Mine and Chad's. Chads has the big round mouth.

Two to BYU, and Two to UofU

2009-10-24T19:09:00.000-07:00

Chad was able to get tickets for the BYU vs. TCU game. Its on right now. I am typing this while the Cougars are currently getting spanked. He took Gus to the game. Gus' first college football game. They are having a ton of fun.
Kensey and I weren't sure what we were going to do while they got to go have a guys night. Then Sonya called and offered us her 2 U of U tickets. They played Air Force. The two of us got dressed in some UTES red and went to the better game!
Utes won in overtime 22 to 16. We were able to ride trax (Kensey was so little the last time we rode trax that she didn't remember what it even was!) We had a lot of fun at the game. Came home and snuggled and watched one of my favorite videos ever BrideWars. Now we are posting our pictures and going to go give each other pedicures. I love this girl. I love hanging out with her. I have laughed and just enjoyed spending a great day with her. Its a bit freaky to watch someone have an expression and feel like you are looking in a mirror. There were a few times today that we caught ourselves saying the exact same thing, in the exact same tone, with the exact same face. It was a little bizarre!

Crazy Hair Day

2009-10-24T19:07:00.001-07:00

Friday was crazy hair day. Gus wanted to have blue hair. I kept making comments about them being old blue hairs and of course they didn't get it. I sure laughed at myself a bunch though.
I thought they looked adorable.

Great Day

2009-10-17T20:01:00.001-07:00

Today was just a great day. Woke-up after 10 hours of sleep. Ahhhhhh. The whole family pitched in and got the house "MOMMY" clean. Ahhhhhh. Went and watched the most handsome devil play a great defensive game in his last game of the season. Got tears in my eyes when they gave out the awards after and he was told that he was The Team Captain, The Greatest Thinker on the team. LOVED that my momma made it to the game, AND my sister came and surprised us! My mom brought me about 15 outfits that I can wear to work. SOOOO nice, since I have been looking at my closet and wondering what to do!
Drove in to South Jordan and went to Grandma Crane's house. Chad was able to help her get yardwork done. Me and Gus went to Grandma and Grandpa Linford's and visited with my sweetest grandparents. Kensey got one on one time with Grandma Crane. Carolyn might have someone in this family that will sew, quilt, and crochet yet! I think she has given up on me, but Kensey is loving all the projects. I love that she is able to learn new things from her grandma.
Finished both the kids REFLECTIONS projects. Ahhhhhhh thats done.
Now I am sitting here thinking about how lucky I am.
Trying not to be a pessimist and waiting for the Murphy's Law to bombard me. For right now though, I am going to be an optimist and just sit back, relax, and be grateful!

My Two Favorite Men

2009-10-09T19:11:00.001-07:00

As most of you know I went "back to work" this week. Its been a great week, but a strange week. Its a perfect job for me. 8:30-12:30 everyday at the kids school. I love seeing my kidlets all day long, and getting to love on lots of other kids too. I have also kept my tutoring kids 2 days a week. So it really doesn't feel like I am there "part-time". It has made the flow of our house change quite a bit though.
My first day I was a little nervous. Then this gorgeous flower arrangement arrived. I told everyone it was from my sweet mom. She is always doing things like that, and I just knew she had sent them to me.
A little while past and someone asked if I had even read the card. I didn't know there was a card. I open it up, and saw that it wasn't from my sweet mom. It was from my great husband! Now to some getting flowers might be a regular thing, but Chad's never been a -send flowers- kind of guy. I hurried and found everyone that I told they were from my mom, and let them know it was my husband who should be getting the points!
Chad has really tried hard to step up at home with me working. He has spent more time at night helping kids with their homework, and trying to see where he can help do more stuff around the house. It has been great!
The second day of work I was rushing around trying to get Gus out the door. Kensey was already at school for chorus, and Gus was dragging his feet. I didn't want to be late so I was hurrying and rushing and trying to get us going.
This was our conversation trying to get out the door:
Me: GUS, we have to go now!
Gus: I am commmmingggg
Me: Right now. Lets go, lets move, lets go. out out out
Gus: MOM, STOP. Just STOP.
Me: WHAT!?!?!
Gus: (He looks me up and down) Mom, you look GOOD today.
Me: i love you handsome devil
Yep, my two favorite men. They both treat me better then I deserve, and I love them more then they will ever know!

Fall Festival

2009-10-09T19:06:00.000-07:00

Every year our ward does a Fall Festival. They rent a big slide and have dinner and pot luck dessert for anyone who wants to come. They try and make it more of a "neighborhood" party and not a "ward" party.
The kids went to the Wardles right after school and were able to play on the slide for 2 hours before anyone else even got there. They had a lot of fun going up and down the slide over and over and over again.
Its a great way to kick off the fall season. I am just really, really glad that it doesn't have to be at my house! Thanks Scott and Court!

WAR

2009-10-06T16:27:00.001-07:00

Each of the kids have friends over right now. They both have decided that they need the basement all to themselves.
I hear yelling and attacking in the basement. I try to ignore it for as long as possible.
When I finally dare to go downstairs and investigate, Andrew and Bryson are marching up the stairs yelling ITS WAR!!
Apparently the girls took all the blankets and made a fort under the stairs. They wouldn't share any with the boys so they could make their own fort. Hence, the yelling and screaming.
Boys came upstairs, pulled Andrews bed apart, and made their own fort.
Now there are all happy smiles.
At least for the next 5 minutes, until WAR is declared again.

Student Of The Month

2009-09-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

PROUD MOMMY MOMENT!
Mr. Andrew Crane was selected as the first student of the month!! There was an assembly this morning with the entire school. It was awesome. We hadn't told him so it was a big surprise to him. He kept asking why Chad wasn't at work yet this morning. We told him there was a secret. A GREAT SECRET!!
He was chosen based on a few things: 1.Reading 2. GROWL--No, not growling but he does do that well. The school mascot is the LION. So they have a GROWL which stands for
G---give respect
R---responsible behavior, respectful
0---obey rules
W---work hard
L---listening
(I think thats what they are!)
Can I just say again and again how much I love this kid. He is so respectful of his teachers, other kids in his class, and he is sooooo smart. Where did this smart gene come from? Why did I pass it along instead of use it for myself?
He reminds me of my dad in his smart ability. If you meet my dad you wouldn't think he was smart. Ok, that doesn't sound nice. BUT you wouldn't. He is a jokester, loves to stir things up, cowboyish. He isn't suit and tie, serious, the whole professor smart look. Once my dad shows you how his brain works, you are kind of amazed. Exactly like Gus. Gus' favorite answer is I DON'T KNOW. But he does know. He knows and he knows. I don't think people would look at him, or listen to him and think BOY GENIUS. However, he just might be!
Isn't this just what Student Of The Month moms all over the world think? I am sure it is, but their kids aren't mine, and quite frankly I think mine is smarter! :)

Loved it!

2009-09-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

I found this quote today by Marjorie Hinckley, and I LOVED IT!! She was a woman that always made me laugh, and I think Heaven is lucky to have her.

"I don't want to drive up to the pearly gates in a shiny sports car, wearing beautifully, tailored clothes, my hair expertly coiffed, and with long, perfectly manicured fingernails.I want to drive up in a station wagon that has mud on the wheels from taking kids to scout camp.I want to be there with grass stains on my shoes from mowing Sister Schenk's lawn.I want to be there with a smudge of peanut butter on my shirt from making sandwiches for a sick neighbor's children.I want to be there with a little dirt under my fingernails from helping to weed someone's garden.I want to be there with children's sticky kisses on my cheeks and the tears of a friend on my shoulder.I want the Lord to know I was really here and that I really lived. "-Marjorie Hinckley

Canning Extravaganza

2009-09-25T10:42:00.000-07:00

My Salsa
One of my food storage sections. Do you notice all the otter-pops in pink boxes? Those are a must with Gus! And for everyone that has MONSTER storage I say GOOD FOR YOU!! This is the most this family has ever seen as far as food storage goes. I know it doesn't compare with a lot of peoples I have seen, but for our family it is working. Thats why I thought it deserved a little picture in my extravaganza adventure!

I can already hear my sister and brother groaning over this post. Well, tough. I am posting it anyways because I am a little proud of myself!
I officially joined the canning bandwagon this week. Yep, I am becoming more and more a true mormon everyday! HA!
My friend Kristin has been canning all summer it seems like, and she was so kind and let me join her in this adventure. I was able to get some jars, and that was the biggest thing to get.
Used ingredients from our first garden EVER. It was a pretty cool thing.
I know, I know, gardens, canning, fresh vegetables, my storage room growing and growing. What has happened to me? I have no idea. I am kind of liking it though!
It took about 2 hours, but the SALSA is sooooo yummy! Oh, so good. I ate it til I was about sick last night. Yummmmmy!
So, now I am a canner. I don't actually OWN any real canning tools, but I can keep my eyes open for them. It wasn't hard at all. I don't know what my issue about it has been all these years. Maybe it just seemed so OLD PERSONish. I don't know. I hope to at least keep doing salsa. I am not planning on venturing into all the fruits and stuff YET!

Saturday is a special day

2009-09-19T14:17:00.000-07:00

Our stake had an Activity Days Fall Festival activity today. It was a mother/daughter day, and Kensey and I had a lot of fun. They had classes on filling out pedigree charts, GOOD MANNERS, how to set a "proper" table, how to lead music, and our favorite was dressing up and getting our pictures taken (go figure!)
Then it was off to Gus' first game of the fall season.

He is on the Baltimore Ravens this year. All the boys had black marks under their eyes, to look even more fierce then they already are!
We have an in-experienced team this season, and they tried their hardest. Gus, Bryson, and Dominick are the only ones who have ever played before. Plus we have some kids who just barely turned 5. They all did such a good job.
Vannessa and I were are normal Nazi Coach Moms and got our husbands a bit upset with us. (Again, go figure) We just like to vocalize what should be fair.
Gus played an amazing game. Chad said he thought it was probably his best game ever. Great offense, and even better defense. GO GUS!
The highlight was when one boy on the other team got the ball and saw that everyone was chasing after him so he took off the wrong way. Made it all the way down to the WRONG touchdown, and was soooo excited that he had scored. Well, he scored for us. We will take safety points just as much as any other kind.
Tonight I am setting up for a Girls Night Out at my house. We are watching Momma Mia. Probably be lots of singing coming from the basement, and Chad is trying to find anywhere else he can be. As long as the kidlets go with him, I dont care!!

Tony Bergstrom #70 University of Utah Football

2009-09-15T07:27:00.000-07:00

Today Andrew got the gift of lifetime (in his SIX whole years!) Here is the story~!
If I had to say one word that described Andrew it would be FOOTBALL. His allegiance has been BYU strong most of his life. I have tried all 6 years to get him to come to the other side with me. GO UTES!
Well, he has a new hero, and he happens to play for the University of Utah. I think he is coming over to my side now!
#70 Tony Bergstrom. He is our good friends nephew.
Each time the Utes have played, Andrew yells out EVERYTIME he sees Tony. THERE HE IS!! THERE IS TONY!! LOOK MOM, KYLE WHITTINGHAM IS YELLING TONY, TONY, TONY!! HE GETS TO HAVE KYLE WHITTINGHAM YELL AT HIM!! DID YOU SEE TONY BLOCK?? NUMBER 70 IS AWESOME!!
I think because we know the Russells and since the Russells are related to #70, Andrew has decided we must be related to him too. You know, all that common DNA we all share with our neighbors.
This morning when the Russells came to get Andrew for school he got the biggest gift ever. #70 Tony Bergstrom himself, gave him one of his playing gloves, AND it was signed. The smile on my sons face was priceless. He was bouncing around, CAN I TAKE IT TO SCHOOL???? Nope, sorry!
Thanks so much to everyone who helped make Andrew so happy today. It was like watching him win the lottery. At first he wasn't sure what it was, then disbelief came into him, then absolute excitement. It was awesome!!

favorite blog-stalking sites

2009-09-09T15:23:00.000-07:00

I have had quite a few people ask me about Princess Kensey's hair, and how I come up with all MY ideas for her creative looks.
Well, I am going to share with you the secret to her hairs success.
Dah-na-na-na
Its a variety of blogs that I have found while blog-stalking. Someone will have one in their favorites section, and I click on it and investigate.
Here are my FAVORITE ones if you have a girls hair to do:
www.cutegirlshairstyles.blogspot.com
www.babesinhairland.blogspot.com
www.cute2tryhairdos.blogspot.com
www.hairbetweenmyfingers.blogspot.com
www.hair4myprincess.blogspot.com

Each of these have a bunch of their favorite places to look also. It really should be a part-time job finding all these adorable hairstyles.

My next favorite blog that I have found is www.realmomkitchen.blogspot.com
that is where I am discovering all these ridiculously yummy recipes that I have been trying out lately. When even Kensey will eat it, you know it must be good. I added her link on my blog. She has a new recipe almost everyday, and I have been on a rampage trying them out. So far, I haven't been disappointed at all!

Now you know my secrets.
I search the internet to find ways to fix Kensey's hair.
I search the internet to find ways to fix Kensey's food.
As long as she is happy, everyone is happy!

Kossian's Baptism

2009-09-05T16:49:00.000-07:00

Kensey and Kossi. They both are such beautiful girls!!
Cranes and Borders kids. They were actually pretty well behaved today!
Vannessa, Keith, Me and Chaddy. We also were actually pretty well behaved. I know, Miracles can happen.

We went into Kearn's today for Kossian's baptism. I can't believe she is already 8!
I met Josh, Jamie and Kossian when Kossi was only a few months old, and now she is such a big girl. Another one that needs to fly off to never-never land with me.
If you would have told me when I met the Newell family how much I would grow to love them, I think both myself and Jamie would have laughed in your face. Now I can't imagine not having them in my life.
Chad and I were saying how much we miss them since they have left our sweet little town and went to Kearns. BUT they are happy in where they are at, and that is what matters.
Kensey and Kossi were just like sisters when they were little and still consider each other "cousins".

Kick Ball

2009-09-02T15:14:00.000-07:00

Gus waiting in line behind all these girls for his turn

Kensey pitching the ball.

After school today Kenseys Activity Day Group got together and played some KickBall. Andrew had never played and wanted to join his sister. I was worried a little drama might happen, but Kensey was a great sport and let him join right in.
They were down a few players so a couple of other boys played too.
It was funny to watch these girls play. Someone would throw the kickball to a base to get someone out, and the girls on the bases were just watching the ball sail over their heads. OR they would smack the ball to make sure it didn't hit them. Not exactly how I have seen boys play, that is for sure!
Andrew was doing great until a girl kicked the ball, and he was WAY to close to her. SMACK right in the choppers. Down he went. There were some tears, but nothing an ice cream sandwich couldn't make all better.
It was so stinkin hot though. We went in the school, and was glad it was still open, so we could get some water from the drinking fountains.
I am secretly still very happy that it is still soooo warm. Like the Fall, but I am in love with Summer!!

BreAnn's Wedding

2009-08-30T15:24:00.000-07:00

Me and My Groom

Cindy, Brandon, Bre, Anthony, Coley, and Gary
BreAnn The Bride

The first neice is officially married. Chad and I haven't married any of our neices or nephews off, but now the deal is done.
They eloped in Vegas last week, but had a reception on Saturday at the Park City Marriot. It was really nice.
They started dancing at 9, but we had the kidlets with us, so we left about 8:30. It looked like a good turnout, and hopefully they were able to get some nice things to help them along this great ride called marriage!
Congratulations Guys!

Back to Bowling

2009-08-30T15:17:00.000-07:00

While we spent the entire summer at the pool apparently there was a snazzy deal going on at the bowling alley. All summer long EVERYONE bowls one game free, only pay 1.60 for the shoe rental. After you have done your game if you want to bowl another game its only 1.50. I was sooooo sad that I didn't hear about this until a week before school started.
Last Friday I picked up Kensey from school, we grabbed her friend Sydney, went and got Bryson, and Andrew invited a new friend from school, Tate.
The 5 of them had a lot of fun.
They are going to be doing this deal again next summer also. We will just add it to our weekly summer fun.
Kensey usually hates bowling because she isn't terrific at it. On the WII she rocks. Reality, not so hot. We put up the bumpers, and she won! Her and Sydney tied at 80. It was a fun day for all!!

1st day of 1st grade and 4th grade

2009-08-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

Well, if I am typing this then you know I have officially left both the kids at school today. I put on my brave mommy face and off we went.
Kensey was so excited to have her picture taken all over the place. Pose, pose, smile, pose some more. This girl has it down.
Gus tried to smile, but burrowed his eyebrows a lot more then smiled. His teacher asked him if he could smile, and he tried, but the burrow-brow came right back.
He is sooooo not a morning person (I wonder where he gets that from hee hee)
Kens gave me a big hug, I got an I love ya Momma and off she went.

Gus gave me a death grip on my hand, I walked him into class, found his spot, and he signed to me I love you. That tore my heart to shreds.
Held the tears in check until the car. I rode over to the school with Sonya because we gave the teachers their PTA gifts this morning. She got to witness the breakdown.
We went to breakfast with a great group of ladies who have met every year at Jim's Restaurant for years the first day of school.
I got home and was getting ready to go with Vannessa to get a pedicure and cry some more when Kristin and Zach came over with the most beautiful flowers to help me cheer up. It was the sweetest thing ever. Especially because Zach let me snuggle on him!

Now its time to go get the most handsome devil ever, and see how he liked 1st grade. We go get Kensey in 2 hours. 1st graders only go until 1:00 this week. I think its for all us crazy mom's who are missing their kids!
I have officially survived (kind of) the first day at school!
Thanks to everyone who has loved me today. I love you all more then you know!

A New Chapter..............

2009-08-18T06:50:00.001-07:00

Last year Andrew started kindergarten. I was slightly emotional about it. Everyone kept telling me how great it would be, blah, blah, blah. It worked out OK. 3 hours each day and 1 1/2 hour on Wednesday. Plus I volunteered 2 days a week for 2 hours each day. I did OK.
Last night as I was trying to sleep it hit me like a house. He is leaving me from 8:30-3:00 EVERY DAY.
I know. Kensey has been doing this for 5 years. But Kensey is this social butterfly. She is always with someone, at someones house, doing something.
Mr. Gus is always with me. He is my homebody.
I started figuring out (at about 2 a.m.) I have spent more time with this little guy then I have anyone else in my entire life. Its been the two of us 24/7 for a lllooonnnggg time.
I am excited for him. I love that he will get the opportunity to grow like Kensey has, and become a more amazing person. BUT this selfish part of me just wants to keep him here and not let him ever grow up.
When Kensey started first grade, it was hard, but I still had this 2 year old at home who needed me. Now I have the dog at home.
I've already warned to teachers that I am going to be there ALOT. They have been very kind and accepting of this crazy mom who can't quite cut the apron strings!
This is going to be an adventure. I keep telling myself that, trying to convince myself of that.
I admire everyone who has ever let their baby start 1st grade. I think its one of the hardest things I have ever done. Especially trying to do it with a smile, so he doesn't know that I am just as scared as he is!!

Rockin' the GoKarts

2009-08-11T15:36:00.000-07:00

Waiting to rumble
Vannessa looks like an elf!
Here we go!!

Today was Vannessa a.k.a "Stinky" birthday. She is the whopping 27. Yes, i am very jealous of that number.
Her husband surprised her with a trip to Miller Motor Sports Park, and also invited some of the best people in her life. Obviously, I was invited :)
We headed out at 10:00 and got there before it got too hot. Lynzee was able to nab some 25% off tickets which was awesome! As we were driving there Keith told Vannessa we were going skydiving. She totally believed it. HAA HAA. Nope GoKarts!!
We got there and had to pick out these massive helmets, neck braces, and face mask things. We really looked like power rangers! They were a bit claustrophbic.
Out we went to pick up our go-karts. Vannessa's cart is a different color. That is because my dear friend is a midget. OK, not "legally" midget, but at
4' 10" she couldn't reach the big kids pedals. She got #82. Yep, her birth year for her birthday! I nabbed #75. Yep, my birth year for my not birthday.
We went around and around the track. Lynzee spun out at one point and was going around in circles!!! The more I went around the more car sick I got. Like, stop 10 minutes early, take some deep breaths, and kick myself for not taking any dramamine!!
It was a good time.
Happy Birthday Vannessa!!

Summit County Fair, Rodeo and Parade

2009-08-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

I was thinking we were a family without a lot of traditions. Now that I think about it, that is really not true. We have alot of yearly traditions that we do!
One of those traditions is going to the Summit County Fair, Rodeo, and Parade. My brother Gary and his wife Cindy moved up there first. They were followed by my brother Jimmy, (his wife was from there), then my parents built their home up there also. It just makes sense that we go to the County fair and all the events each year.
The fair this year was a total rip-off! 5 bucks for the kids to ride a ride!! Not even a GREAT ride. They each rode one ride, and then they were done.
We went over to the rodeo, and had a lot of fun. Uncle Jimmy got Gus all sugared up for the night. 2 Snowcones, extra large pixie stix, candy popcorn, skittles......all within 2 hours. Paybacks are going to suck for him someday!
After the rodeo they do a great firework show. The kids love staying and watching the fireworks. We slept over at Grandma and Grandpas which was nice. Only a 5 minute drive back to their house.
The next morning was the parade. Its a very unique parade (thats the best way to put it!) The floats go past you-----passing out THE BEST CANDY EVER! Then when they are done, they circle around and come back by for a second go round. You don't get a lot of cheap-o taffy, you get starburst, laffy taffy, candy bars, I'm talking GOOD CANDY.
My great-nephew Tayton was there, and it was so cute watching this little one year old go after the candy. He was having so much fun. The kids have almost as much candy from this parade as they do at Halloween. My sugarbuds are loving it!
The kids and Grandma Wees waiting for the candy
Aunt ChaBlee on Nifty waving for the parade. They were also in the rodeo the night before.
Tayton!
Tayton giving all his candy to PaPa Gary! Its still a bit bizarre to me that my brother is a PaPa. That little guy loves him though!

Welcome Home Gus!

2009-08-10T14:37:00.000-07:00

From my last post you know that Gus was in Fish Lake all week. Kensey and I decided to make him a welcome home sign! We had a lot of fun painting it and hanging it up for him. It lasted about 2 hours before Chad hit the garage door opener button and it tore into pieces. Lucky for him I already had the pictures taken!
Also, some pictures of Gus and his huge fishes!!

Fish lake

2009-08-04T09:35:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday-Sunday Gus was able to go with Grandma and Grandpa Padgett, and Aunt Kelli and Uncle Matt to our Linford Family Reunion at Fish Lake. We have done this reunion every year for as long as I can remember. I have only missed 1 year, now 2.
Because of Kensey's dance schedule we weren't going to be able to go, so Grandma packed up Mr. Gus and took him with her.
Needless to say the boy was in heaven! One on One time with Grandparents is just what every kid deserves I decided.
They woke up early each day and took the boat out fishing. Gus caught an 18 inch rainbow trout and a 17 inch lake trout. They were huge!!
Every year at the reunion we have activities like painting, games, making crafty things, fishing, fishing, fishing and everyones favorite The Dutch Oven Cook-off. Everyone in every family has to make a dutch oven dish and they have secret judges who judge the dishes. Prizes are given and bragging rights are included for the next year.
Grandpa Jim took 2nd place this year. Not sure where Kelli placed.
It is the best meal of the entire year (including Thanksgiving!) Chad looks forward to this meal for months. He was sad he couldn't have it this year for sure.
Grandma didn't want to bring Gus back. She said he was soooooo good. Of course he was, he takes after his mother ;)
Thanks again to my parents for taking the little guy out for one of the best weeks of his life. You two are amazing and we love you!!

Workin' At The CarWash

2009-07-31T15:17:00.001-07:00

Kensey and her friend Madee had already played store. Played the WII. Played American Idol. What else is there left to play?
Why, WORKIN' AT THE CARWASH baby! I had told Kensey that people actually use to clean cars for people before there was automatic carwashes. She thought that was amazing. So today they decided to give it a try.
Swimsuits on, hose on, big bowl of sudsy water, two towels to dry it off, and off they went. They were laughing and having a lot of fun.
I gave them each a dollar as their "wage" for being my workers. I got a clean car and the grass got lots of water.
The only really bad part of this was when I was helping and actually had to get up close and personal with all the dings and scrapes some mysterious person has accumulated on the automobile. Geez, whoever drives my car had better get off her cell phone and pay better attention. You know, whoever that could be ;)

Good Times!

2009-07-28T19:32:00.000-07:00

We have been a busy bunch of people the last couple of days!
Saturday, Chad took my dad, Uncle Matt, and his friend Brice golfing at Thanksgiving Point. Its kind of an annual event that Chad does with these guys. Bragging rights for the entire year lay on this 18 hole game. My dad kicked their young booties!! Oh, the stories that were told, and the smack talk given (and will continue to be given for the next year!)
Saturday night we were off to the Days of '47 Rodeo. Another annual event. We were able to get tickets for my parents and our friends the Wardles. Unfortunately, my mom got super sick that day and had to go to an insta-care and they couldn't make it. Grandpa Jim wasn't a happy camper! (at least he got to golf earlier right?!)
The Rodeo was awesome, and I loved it at the new venue of the E Center. Its a great rodeo, and never goes on and on like some rodeos do!
Chad had Monday off of work, and we were able to take the kids to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open House. It was beautiful! I loved being able to talk to the kids about the rooms we were going to and seeing them oooh and aaahhh. Gus loved the Baptismal font and the mirrors that go on "forever!" Kensey loved the mirrors and of course The Brides Room! What princess wouldn't?!?!
We went and spent some time at Grandma Crane's, Grandma and Grandpa Linford's, and off to our friends the Newells for some yummy dinner and jamming on RockBand.
I love watching people sing on RockBand. I can't wait for the country edition to come out, maybe I would know some of the songs!
It was awesome to be with Chaddy and the kiddos and have a great weekend!!

24th of July

2009-07-25T11:26:00.001-07:00

My kids getting ready to get on the float
The float passing by with the kids blowing bubbles
Vannessa running her own 5K HAHA!!
The Cranes, The Borders and The Niemenan kids having fun at the park after! It looks like Brayden is flipping everyone off but he isn't. He is doing a peace sign :-)

Yesterday was a great state holiday. We went to the pool with the Borders and both of our husbands were able to come with us. The men didn't last very long though. They couldn't believe we do that almost everyday. TOO HOT for them!
We had our town parade last night. The kids have a great time every year riding on the float. This years theme was "The Future Is So Bright!" There are lots of creative people around here. There were some great floats (and some not so great!)
After we had a lot of fun playing at the park and doing all the fun activities. Me and the kids had a sleepover downstairs to top the night off. It was a fun day!