To Love & Life

I AM a Scrooge!

2011-12-23T11:38:00.000-08:00

Okay, so not only am I a Christmas wimp (see older post) but I am also a Scrooge. I keep getting all these wonderful, supercute Christmas cards in the mail and they have ALMOST motivated me to send some myself. The key word here: ALMOST. Maybe next year but maybe not. So stop looking the mailbox waiting to hear from us...this blog is all you're going to get. Merry Christmas!
This post is dedicated to my blogging friend Mindy who is NOT a Scrooge. :)

She meet the Big Man AND...

2011-12-22T09:49:00.000-08:00

She screamed! Not surprised. It was pretty funny. :)
I love how I caught her taking a peak and then...wah!!!

Sadie is in such a fun...messy but fun stage. She loves to "help," which you know what that means. I find myself giving her a bath to give myself a break from the messes.

She is in the uh-oh phase. Everything is "uh-oh." Love it. Also, she is is LOVE with ketchup. I gave her some taco meat the other night and she kept pointing to the fridge. She knows that is where I keep her beloved "sauce." Silly girl. We LOVE her!

Yellow Belt...Go JJ!

2011-12-21T14:19:00.001-08:00

Christmas is NOT FOR WIMPS!

2011-12-16T12:19:00.000-08:00

And apparently I am a wimp because Christmas is kicking my butt! I have been reaching for caffeine around dinnertime which is something I never do...so that is a clear sign. If it wasn't for the Christmas party I hosted...I'm not sure I would have had enough motivation to finally finish our Christmas stockings. I am so excited though to have them done!!! I bought the fabric this spring and starting sewing but then I decided to make a few baby blankets in between, you know how that goes...Anyway, I hope all of you are coping better than I am. I guess I'm doing fine...the shopping and wrapping is done so everything else is just extra, right?! Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!

p.s. Yeah, so I even started a Christmas Tree skirt...that's going to have to wait until next year. I am thinking I will add some more to these stockings too but again...gonna have to wait!

p.s.s Oh and the decor above...I have had since I was probably 14 or 15. It was a young womens project with Karla Coppin for those of you who know her...crazy huh? Whitney, do you still have yours?

AARGGH...A Pirate Party

2011-12-07T12:56:00.000-08:00

JJ is turning 4! He requested a pirate party with a treasure hunt and all so that's what he got!

JJ and I had a fun fun time decorating the cake.

I couldn't have pulled it off without Dad's help!

P is for Pie

2011-11-14T13:24:00.000-08:00

JJ and I are loving Joy School with his best buddies. Last week we did P is for Pie. Drew - JJ - Olivia - Ramsey

This is Sadie's new favorite past time: water. I took a picture almost identical to this but of JJ two years ago.

Daylight Savings has been rough!

The holidays have arrived and I am feeling the craziness already begin so I better wish you a Happy Thanksgiving now while I have a chance.

Halloween was a Blast!

2011-11-01T09:15:00.000-07:00

We are sad it is over! This morning JJ was already talking about what he wants to be next year.

JJ was a Vampire. He came up with it totally on his own.

So glad Dad is always willing to take on this task each year!

This was our favorite spooky house.

"Daddy Vampire"

I was Cruella de Vil and Sadie my Dalmation.

We just LOVE our neighbors! We had a Halloween House decorating party.

Our Trick or Treat buddies: Aspen & Drew

The Diaper Changing Trick (revisited)

2011-10-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law Julie is a lifesaver! This summer while I was in Utah, she noticed how darn wiggly JJ is when I change his diaper. No matter how many times I tell him NOT to stick his hand down into you know what, he does it anyway! Totally gross! So, she showed me a new way to change his diaper. The picture below isn't the greatest, but as you can see, you simply place your leg over you child's belly and he's officially pinned. This simple trick has seriously saved me!

Feeling Old

2011-10-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

Turned 30 today! All in all it has been a good Birthday, minus the leak I've got under the sink. That's a bummer. Thanks to good friends, I didn't have to bake or buy a cake. I didn't have to make dinner either so that is always nice. I wouldn't mind staying 29 forever but I guess it's too late for that! I am happy with all I've been able to accomplish in 30 years so that's all I can ask for.

JJ insisted on hats, so Elso it is.

I have been spoiled...thanks Abby & Ashley!!!

p.s. So I found a huge list of Birthday freebies on this site...you should check it out. I got a free gourmet pizza thanks to this list. WARNING: The sites you are about to visit have deals that are super hard to pass up. Upon visiting you will most likely be tempted to spend money. Proceed with caution!!!

http://www.homemakingexpert.com/ Birthday List is in bottom right corner.

http://www.pinchingyourpennies.com/ Sign up for the Screaming Penny newsletter for super good deals.

In 50 Days...

2011-09-10T22:55:00.001-07:00

it's going to be Halloween.

Our box came out a few days ago after a lot of persistence from JJ. I figured okay...whatever it takes to keep the tv off...one of those mornings. After the entire contents came out and all over the floor I gave in and we began putting it all up.

Including our new spider web packages we purchased at Kmart after Halloween last year.

The piano could use some more work - luckily I've got time. ;)

This is how I know it's in 50 days. Jeremy helped JJ make a chain to count down.

The pumpkin has become JJ's new sleeping buddy for now. He told me this morning about all his halloween dreams...he was a ghost, I was a witch, Sadie a pumpkin and Daddy a Vampire. I LOVE this kid!

Losing Steam

2011-08-24T11:14:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone...Thought I'd share my latest DIY project since you know I haven't posted in close to a month. I have to be honest...I am losing steam here with my blog...wondering if anyone is actually reading it at all?! Jeremy suggests I throw in the towel but I still want to hang on... what do you think?

I thought this quote for my wall was perfect for the Las Vegas weather...it reached 110 yesterday and is supposed to be the same again today. No matter the weather...May There Always Be Sunshine in your life!

JJ is learning to dress himself. :)

Sadie is learning to be silly with a skirt on her head AND crawling away during diaper changes.

JJ is sporting his super cool "do" to go with his super cool "pirate pajamies" from his super cool "Grandma who does projects."

There will always be sunshine in my life with these cute kids in it!

Cabin Party

2011-07-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

Our Sadie turned 1 last week! We celebrated with a party at my parent's cabin. For those of you who have memories of that place, it has been much improved!!! We spent the night there and had a great time.

Before Cake...

After cake...well actually a pudding pie of sorts.

Sadie has a cousin just 3 weeks younger than her, so we made it a double the fun party...it was nice to have them join us!

All the Spackman grandkids together:

JJ, Sadie, Macy, Porter, Liam, Aubrie

Thunder Thighs

2011-07-12T20:27:00.000-07:00

Sadie is turning one next week...I can't get enough of her chub - so darn cute! My middle school soccer coach used to call me Thunder Thighs cause you know I was so totally fast. It must run in the family. ;)

We had a fun fun 4th of July weekend in Denver. Jeremy and I both have a sibling living there so that made it even better.

JJ was in cotton candy heaven at the Rockies game.

Got to enjoy some fireworks with my sister. She is having her first baby in October.

We had a great Spackman Family Reunion with matching tees and all. All the grandkids together.

We got out on some water - always fun.

Well, I have a ton more picture but don't want to bore you, so bye!

Binkie Free!

2011-06-17T09:36:00.000-07:00

After a few rough days our baby is binkie free!

We sure love our little Sadie Lady.

The Fly Lady is my Hero

2011-06-13T11:29:00.001-07:00

I read a book called Sink Reflections a few years ago. It is written by the "FLY Lady." She is a house cleaning, life organizing guru. There are a lot of great suggestions in her book. Some are a little too overwhelming to accomplish atleast for myself but one thing has stuck with me: Always have a clean front entrance. It's the first thing and often the only thing visitors see. A tidy entryway is a good way to welcome your valued guests. Anyway, I TRY to follow her advice. Here is a before and after following a recent wind storm(we get a lot of wind in Vegas):

p.s. I am taking away Sadie's binkie tonight. It's going to be a LONG week! Wish me luck!

19 Miles

2011-05-22T09:43:00.000-07:00

The distance we drove(one way) to visit one of the Las Vegas Landfills.

JJ's new thing is to put his hand on his hip when he is really proud, excited, happy about something...I did not tell him to pose - promise!

JJ asked me to pick him up so he could see into the crusher blades - ooh cool!

This boy was in garbage truck heaven! The building behind JJ is the landfill sans seagulls and nasty smell. I guess that's how they do it in a big city - there is an elementary school next door. As we were pulling out of the driveway JJ started talking about "next time we come" what?!

Sadie has a personality of her own...she almost always has a foot or two hanging out of the crib. Check out those thunder thighs!

The kids are loving bathtime together...Sadie just screams in delight. JJ enjoys pouring water all over her head when I'm not looking...what a great big brother. ;)

Here's the Answers...

2011-05-18T09:45:00.001-07:00

Watched Silence of the Lambs. True! With 6 older brothers who had easy access to movie rentals - I have seen it all! I'm guessing I had watched Pet Cemetery and the Shining by then. I don't think there was any permanent damage to watching these movies so young, but you never know!

My one and only childhood dog was hit by a car. Sad but True. We lived on a somewhat busy street and that sweet little dog just loved running across the street. I guess it was just a matter of time. It was a sad sad day! Here's another quiz...was the dog's name Lizzy or Snarf?

I got in trouble for peeing on the neighbor's lawn. False, but my little brothers did! I'm guessing I'm the one who tattled because I wrote in my journal about how funny I thought it was. My two younger brothers were my best friends growing up...Scott spent last weekend walking from Logan to SLC(90 miles) just for fun. Nate Nate just got engaged a few weeks ago in NYC.

How well do you know me?

2011-05-10T13:11:00.000-07:00

Just read through my journal from May 1992. Was about to finish 4th grade. Below are 3 events - 2 true and 1 false. Leave a guess of the false event in your comment:

Watched Silence of the Lambs.

My first and only childhood dog was hit by a car.

I got in trouble for peeing on the neighbors lawn.

A few things...

2011-04-04T08:59:00.000-07:00

Have any of you figured out how to upload pictures and post on blogger using an ipad? I'm guessing there is an app for it but don't really know...

Spring is in the air and I am loving it!
These trees are in blossom in Vegas and it brightens my day :)

These two also brighten my day:

My JJ monster.

Happy baby Sadie.

JOURNALS

2011-04-02T19:36:00.000-07:00

Apparently I am a journal person. I have 10 or more to prove it. Some are store bought and others are homemade. I got a few as gifts and some I know are from the Book Table. A few of the journals have every page filled with entries and others have some empty pages.
I guess I can thank my 3rd grade teacher for getting me started. My parent's took the family on a trip to Europe and my makeup work was to journal our trip.

Here is my first entry: April 18, 1991 ( 20 years ago!)
"I am on the plain. it is moving and it is going faster and faster. it fills like they left my smotch down thier. it is so fun the lifting is the best part I'm going to eat breakfast"

Nice, I know. The spelling cracks me up!

Highlights from the trip:
Watching Home Alone on the airplane
Going to the Berlin Wall - took a rock
Amsterdam and Holland
Visiting a Concentration Camp
Seeing the Mona Lisa at the Louvre
Versailles
Accidentally sitting in pigeon poop under the Eiffel Tower
Visiting my brother John - serving a mission in Luxembourg

My first journal.
I think JJ got a hold of the cover page a few years ago. ;)

Better Later Than Never...Right?

2011-03-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

So, I am not purposely ignoring my blog - life is crazy busy! I feel about all I can fit in a day is:
Clean the House
Spend Time with the Kids
Get Dinner on the Table
Go to Bed
Start all Over Tomorrow!

A good friend of mine just dropped of a Christmas present yesterday - so I guess I'm not the only one! :)

We went to the WAC tournament because it was in Las Vegas. With family in town to join us - it was tons of fun! The Aggies have won the title a bunch but I have never seen it in person. It made me miss the college!

Tubby Time

2011-02-10T13:26:00.000-08:00

JJ LOVES bathtime and so do I! It's the one time each day when I can contain the moving mess machine in one place. He will stay in long after the water is no longer warm, crazy kid.

One of our recent favorite things are these color tablets. The yellow one is especially fun. ;) If you have any fun tub time toys or activities, please share!

The Switch

2011-01-22T15:19:00.000-08:00

We go through A LOT of peanut butter at our house. We recently made the switch from this peanut butter that has sugar and hydrogenated oils to others that don't.

Ingredients: peanuts, sugar, hydrogenated oils, salt.

Ingredients: peanuts, salt.

The taste and texture is a little different, but it didn't take too long to get used to and it does have to be kept in the fridge once it has been opened.

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Guess who is 6 months today?! Sadie Sue - as I affectionately call her, though her birth certificate says Sadie Marie. She is rolling, teething, and making us smile everyday.

I went through abox of clothes old the other day. JJ saw his old Superman costume and was convinced he had to put it on. I was convinced he was too big to even try...he proved me wrong!

JJ at 10 months.

P90X - "I Hate It But I Love It"

2011-01-14T14:06:00.000-08:00

Have you ever done these workouts? Tony Horton is kindof a dork but I am used to him now. I did the Legs & Back DVD on Tuesday for the first time in 6 months. It kicks my butt and then leaves me sore for days...I am STILL sore. You know it's bad when it even hurts to go up and down stairs. I kinda limp along. I did another DVD this morning, so I guess I'm asking for it. It's nice to get back into exercising though. It would be a little easier but Sadie is still keeping me up at night, oftentimes more than once. As Tony would say..."I hate it but I love it"

The Skinny

2011-01-11T10:46:00.000-08:00

On jeans that is. I first starting seeing skinny jeans or pencil pants as teens call them when I was teaching High School a few years ago. I thought they were ugly then and to be honest, I still don't love the look. As of a few months ago, I am a proud owner of a couple pairs. For a few reasons I felt I really needed a wardrobe upgrade:

My next Birthday will be ending in 0.
I am the Mom of two kids.
I have been out of High School for over 10 years.

Is this a mid-life crisis? Call it what you want - I have given in!

Cal State Fullerton

2011-01-08T19:36:00.000-08:00

Next time you go to Disneyland...stop at the Fullerton Arboretum. It is close by and right off the freeway. It is free, a great place for pictures and a quiet place for lunch. They have citrus trees, a huge variety of cacti...it is our new favorite pit stop.

Bulb Syringe

2011-01-07T13:02:00.000-08:00

aka Booger Sucker

Unfortunately, Sadie has become well acquainted with it this week...day and night. And we still haven't seen the end of it I'm sure. It has been a LONG week!

Traveling with Kids

2011-01-05T19:57:00.000-08:00

Let me just say...traveling with kids is NOT easy. I have 3 examples to prove my point:

Exhibit A:
JJ's matching bow tie for reception

While in Utah for a wedding, I managed to leave this important item at Grandma's house...I still feel bad!

Exhibit B:
Sadie in a Depends diaper!!!

We slept in 4 homes in 6 days. I failed to reload the baby bag one night and got desperate at 4:00 in the morning. I had noticed Grandpa Weber's Depends under the bathroom sink. For the record...they don't work and yes that is masking tape on each side. I can laugh about it now but it wasn't so funny in the wee early morning hours.

Exhibit C:
Picture a lot of packages and postage...Every time I visit Utah, I manage to leave something important behind.
Once it was JJ's favorite blankie,
then it was my cell phone charger,
last month it was my camera.

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On the brighter side...JJ had a birthday while visiting family. This actually came in handy when he requested to have a Garbage Truck party and cake. My sister Jennifer had all the supplies a desperate Mom would need. (I was the desperate Mom in case you were wondering.)

Orange Garbage Truck cake for Party #1

Blue Garbage Truck cake for Party #2

JJ is dressed in his Garbage Man attire. I bet you can guess what he asked for Christmas? A couple more garbage trucks to add to his already too big collection.

A week before JJ's birthday, we visited the Happiest Place on Earth. It was lots of fun!

Even Sadie got in on the fun riding Pirates of the Caribbean and It's a Small World.

December was fun but BUSY!

Hair

2010-12-07T14:45:00.000-08:00

Girls have a lot of stuff...a lot of little stuff and it has already started with Sadie. My neighbor gave me this great idea for all the hairbows, ribbons, clips, etc. that she has.

At 4 months, I don't think Sadie's hair has grown at all. Assuming she will follow the Spackman/Needham trend, hairbows will be a must for the next 12 months or so. I don't want to be asked how old and what my little boy's name is.

Speaking of hair...I am losing it like crazy! This has got to be one of the worst things about post-pregnancy. I lose a handful every time I brush though it. I had to clean out the vacuum roller the other day, so much had accumulated. The joys of motherhood!

Countdown!

2010-12-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

Christmas is coming...yeah!

I've been passing by this house for a few weeks now.

Daddy helped JJ make a chain a couple days ago.

Last time I made a Christmas countdown chain, I was 8 months pregnant and teaching. Lucky for us our Chrismas present came early that year. :)

With a trip to Disneyland followed by a trip to Utah, it's going to be a busy month. I've been reading a book lately called, I'm a Day Late and a Dollar Short. I'd say that title pretty much describes my life and why I haven't posted in over a month. Here are a few quick things I have learned from it so far:
*Take care of you while you take care of the kids.
*Barely do the things that are barely worth doing.
*Take a day off from housework each week and do something for you.

I hate to say it but blogging isn't exactly on the top of my list these days so if the month flies by before I post again...Merry Christmas!

A New Phase

2010-10-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

Sadie is 3 months today!

Unfortunately for me, she has ended the super sleeper phase and entered the exploding poop phase.

This is happening several times a week. Lucky me! ;)

I have pulled out the Swaddle-Me. I feel like the meanest Mom putting her in this, but I spend all day rocking her if I don't. Needless to say, her lack of sleeping has taken a toll on the cleanliness and order of the home...bummer!

It's a sad sad day...

2010-09-21T13:39:00.000-07:00

At 2 months, Sadie has nearly outgrown the outfit she wore home from the hospital. :(

Sadie's favorite toys.

JJ's a great big brother. :)

On a brighter side...the kids and I are driving up to Cache Valley next week to see this girl (Jeremy's sister Jeni) run Cross Country, can't wait!

The Sleeper

2010-09-10T08:03:00.001-07:00

At 7 weeks, sleeping is what Sadie does best though she is still up a couple times each night. Grunting and noise making is probably her next best skill right now.

Not sure what she was dreaming about here?!

She has started to give us smiles! :)

JJ started preschool twice a week for a couple hours, it's just right!

I am working on the baby belly bulge - YES it is still there!
Jeremy is loving the football season.
I guess that's everything going on right now - in a nutshell. :)

Impossible.

2010-08-10T15:49:00.000-07:00

While feeding Sadie in the middle of the night last night, I tried to imagine life with these: (cloth diapers)

Instead of these:

Impossible.

One Week Old!

2010-07-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

Eats. Sleeps. Poops. Hiccups. Sucks her Fingers.
We love her to pieces!

Baby Sadie

2010-07-24T12:12:00.001-07:00

Here's our little sweetheart.
6 lbs. 12 oz. - 19 Inches

Soccer Crazed

2010-07-20T20:59:00.001-07:00

Thanks to the World Cup, we caught the soccer bug. JJ is going to be taking classes for the next few months with Daddy. There are no organized games of course, but it will keep him busy.

We bought JJ his first pair of tennis shoes for the occasion. They make him look so grown up!

c

Staycation

2010-07-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

After a lot of driving in the month of June, we decided to stay put for the 4th of July weekend.

We stayed on the top floor of THE Hotel at Mandalay Bay. They weren't ready to check us in on time so they upgraded us to a suite. Can't complain there!

The pool was lots of fun with a wave pool and lazy river. We had a great view of their fireworks that night.

JJ's been practicing his super-grin.

10 Years

2010-07-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

With a baby due in about 10 days, I won't be attending my 10 year High School reunion next month. Instead, I walked around the house and found 10 things I still have and use since then or even before.

#1 Stuffed Monkey

I've had snowball since Elementary. My oldest sister gave it to me and I have taken it with me to college, Oregon, and now Nevada. I even used it as an object lesson a couple times a year when I taught High School. Now JJ thinks it's his of course.

#2 Welcome Sign

I made this at a community class I took my Senior Year.

#3 Bunnies

Made these in a High School sewing class. I pull them out every Easter.

#4 Tennis Tote Bag

This dates back to the summer of 1995. I did a Tennis camp with my best friend Adrienne. I now use it for a swimming bag.

#5 Wooden Box

One of my siblings made this wooden box in middle school shop class. I took it with me, painted it red and now it holds books and diapers.

#6 Books

A few books I continue to keep in my library. I loved Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul.

# 7 Dresses

I wore this blue dress the night of graduation. I still wear it on occasion.

#8 Shirts

Still wearing these too.

#9 Sweat Pants

My so cool Abercrombie pants, at least I thought so back then.

#10 Printer

I bought this before my Freshman year in college. Used it to print countless lesson plans for teaching. Still using it a couple times a week.

The Dump Dump

2010-06-29T19:19:00.000-07:00

I have got to be the best Mom in the world! I took JJ to the landfill or affectionately called the dump dump. I had nothing to dispose of, we just went for the heck of it AND because JJ's obsession with garbage trucks continues...

Fortnately, we stayed far enough away that we didn't have to smell a thing. I went to the dump with my Mom a few times when I was little and I do remember a stench, that is for sure. I also remembered the seagulls picking away at the garbage, they were there in strong number.

JJ is showing off his latest and greatest garbage truck. He has more than you can count on one hand. For those of you who havn't made it to Toy Story 3 yet, there are a couple of garbage truck scenes - totally something to look forward to, right?!

Valley of FIRE!

2010-06-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

We had a Spackman Family Reunion last weekend. With the mild weather we have been enjoying, I was hoping Valley of Fire would've been a good choice. Well, it was HOT! The weekend before was mild and the weekend after was nice too. Just our luck, seriously! I learned though, that as long as you're with family, you have fun in pretty much any situation.

We found some shade on the one hike we were able to handle in the heat.

This is JJ post hike. I spiked his hair with his sweat, yummy!

Grandma with the two boys, Porter and JJ. They're both going to be big brothers by the end of the summer.

We ended up just camping one night and finding a hotel the next. The campground was littered with lizards, which was a lot of fun, though I failed to get a picture.

Summer Vacation...Check

2010-06-07T15:40:00.000-07:00

With a baby coming in July, we planned our summer vacation early this year. After living in Las Vegas for over 2 years now, we finally made the drive to California over Memorial Day weekend. One of my highlights would be that I didn't pack even one diaper, it was awesome! I will enjoy it while it lasts. Here's a quick rundown of the fun stuff we did in San Diego:

JJ LOVED the beach! We could've stayed there all day if it was up to him.

Sesame Street at Sea World
Of course we got to see Shamu. We even brought the stuffed version home with us.

Mets vs Padres

The Padres set a record for runs made on their field, not a good day for the Mets.

Learned Something New...

2010-05-21T13:51:00.000-07:00

Did you know you can clean these?

I had no idea, but I guess you can and should about every other month! I have owned some of these make-up brushes for years and have never thought to clean them, I figured water would ruin them. Needless to say, I have enjoyed putting on make-up this week. They feel so clean!

Here are some simple directions:
1. Dip brush in warm soapy water.
2. Rinse and blot with towel.
3. Use blow dryer to dry bristles.

I pulled out the baby carseat this week to give it a good cleaning. JJ thought it was pretty cool. He sat in it for close to 30 minutes. I think he's going to miss being the baby. I have about 8 weeks to go. Despite the constant trips to the bathroom, everything is going okay. I'm not sure I could count on 4 hands how many times I visit the loo each day. My bladder must be fun to jump on! :)

On second thought, JJ might LOVE having a baby sister! He had me put this on by request, with no nudge from me!
A friend of mine just gave them to me yesterday. JJ spotted them and asked me, "Mommy Crumb?" That's his way of asking, What is that? It will be a sad day when he doesn't say that anymore!

360 Months!

2010-05-09T08:51:00.001-07:00

Guess who's the BIG 30?!

Happy Birthday Jeremy!!!

If you ask JJ, "Daddy is 2." Everyone is 2 to him. I was talking with Jeremy the other day about turning 30 and he said, don't you mean 360 months? So there you have it, take your pick. :)

Solution

2010-04-30T15:25:00.000-07:00

Once summer hits, I pretty much live in these:

Can you tell?!

I have been fighting the super dry feet syndrome for awhile and this stuff has solved the problem:

I have only been using it for a few days and I have already noticed a difference. The stuff looks like pink colored petroleum jelly, yummy. I got it at the Sephora shop in JCPenny, but the picture is from Amazon. Anyway, it's affordable and has given me one less thing to worry about. :)

If I were rich...

2010-04-27T14:47:00.001-07:00

If I were rich I'd buy these two things for every young Mom I know:

A Dapper Snapper. Dumb name, but it works!

This half/belt thing keeps JJ's pants from falling off all the time. On most of his pants and shorts the length is just right, but the waist is far from fitting, even when he had a bulky diaper underneath. Also, I tend to buy things too big anyway, so they will fit him through a whole season. This has kept me from needing safety pins, a sewing machine, or a full on belt that would drive both of us crazy. I slip his pants on and he doesn't even know it's there.

Gymboree Bubbles

I know what you're thinking...you can get bubbles just about anywhere, you can even make bubble solution yourself! Well, try it and you will see, there is a difference! These bubbles float in the air for a super long time, there must be a special ingredient added, who knows?! Also, the wand is great, it blows through 4 holes at a time. All I know is that I enjoy bubble time and don't feel totally winded when we're done. You're just going to have to trust me on this one.

a BIG week!

2010-04-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

It has been a week since JJ has had one of these:

We owe it all to his obsession with these:

About a week ago I asked JJ if he wanted to throw his binkie away in the garbage....he said yes! So right before the garbage man came last week, I walked him outside to the big one an let him drop them in. He thought it was pretty cool and fun to see them go. He wasn't so happy that night or the one after. Naptime didn't happen for a few days either, but now he says, "I don't need a binkie. I'm not a baby, I'm a toddler!"

Havn't changed one of these in 5 days!!!

JJ is strutting off his new Cars underwear...hasn't dirtied one yet!

A few days after the binkie incident, JJ started showing signs that he was ready to lose the diaper. I took JJ to the park without a diaper or underwear under his shorts. He took right to it and has been almost 100% during the day even when we are not at home! He has stayed dry at night for 5 days straight, wahoo! A few days after nothing underneath, we decided he was ready for the big boy pants. We havn't regretted it yet! Don't hate me, but this kid won't even be 2 1/2 until June!

What helped:
Big prizes for every successful #2
Daddy was on board and was very helpful
Letting him "hang out" for a few days

Despite that all, JJ is still the typical toddler:

This is what happened last time he "helped" Mom make cookies.
Last week he mistook whiteout for mascara and covered one eye completely, before I got to him. I was too freaked out to think about taking a picture.

We am still totally delighted about JJ's good week. We were hoping this would all happen before the new baby, but didn't see how it was possible. Gotta love him!

Digging for GOLD

2010-04-01T14:28:00.000-07:00

Last night I asked JJ what was in his nose. He replied..."GOLD!" I had a good laugh.

The boy to the right is our new neighbor Drew. They moved in a few months ago and it has been wonderful! We have so much fun together. And date-swapping is awesome!

A View...

2010-03-26T13:58:00.000-07:00

from my morning run, it's more like a slow jog now but it feels so good to get out and move!

I considered putting up a picture of the other view, the bump, but I decided against it. Let's just say, it's looks like I could have a baby in a month rather than four!

Cottage Cheese Pancakes

2010-03-17T13:57:00.000-07:00

My in-laws introduced me to a new kind of pancake. The texture is a little different, but it's okay. I like knowing JJ is getting a little more nutrition than he would otherwise. Bring on the syrup! Maybe I'll try banana pancakes next?

Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Dry Ingredients:
3/4 Cup Flour
1 Tbsp. Sugar
3/4 tsp. Baking Powder
1/4 tsp. Baking Soda

Wet Ingredients:
3/4 Cup Cottage Cheese
2/3 Cup Milk
2 Egg Whites
1/2 tsp. Vanilla
2 Tbsp. Vegetable Oil

In a large bowl mix dry ingredients.

In a blender, place all other ingredients. Blend well. Batter should be SMOOTH!

Add to dry ingredient bowl. Mix well.

Cook on griddle.

We don't do pancakes without this:

Cut kid-friendly peices in seconds!

Exciting News!!!

2010-03-12T14:01:00.000-08:00

I bought this blanket last week in hopes of the results we got today...

We have another one on the way and It's A Girl!

I am 20 weeks and have impatiently awaited today. I have to admit, I REALLY wanted a girl. It hasn't sunk in yet, it's just too good to be true! I was hoping the slight differences between pregnancies meant something.

Here's a sweet little hand waving hello.

Two wiggly feet kicking at the bladder, thank you very much.

My parents have 24 grand-kids with 4 on the way. Currently there are 8 girls and 16 boys. I'd say it's time for another girl!

Jeremy wasn't any help while we waited. He would tease with, "How's our son? Are you excited for a baby brother JJ?" The joke is now on him!

JJ was able to come with us to the ultrasound. He has fun talking about the baby in Mom's belly.

So we planned this really well, I'm due in JULY...yuck! Anyone that wants to join me in our air-conditioned home is so welcome, that's where I'll be come summer.

Highlight of the Day

2010-03-10T14:52:00.000-08:00

That's right! Garbage day is super exciting at our house. JJ has trained his ears to hear it coming and whether we're in the middle of breakfast or I'm still in my robe with wet hair we are out there to see the garbage truck, no fail! I figured since this is a weekly event, I better get a picture of it. I don't love this myself, but when he talks about it the rest of the day, you know it's important to him.

I have to admit I'm that crazy Mom who follows the garbage truck through the parking lot to see it lift a dumpster. Often it's the first thing he tells Dad when he gets home and the first thing he asks for when he wakes up in the morning. So I guess I need to get over the embarassment when the neighbors drive by and wave at the crazy lady and her son.

Doesn't get much cuter than this. Unfortunately, that binkie isn't going anywhere! Suggestions?!

Scrapbooking Confession

2010-02-26T16:15:00.001-08:00

I don't do it. I used to when I had more time to myself and didn't have a toddler that must have his hands in EVERYTHING. So, I guess you can say I picture book:

It is stress free, guilt free and I am never behind! Every few months I select, print and place pictures in a pocket, write a quick blurb about each one and I am done! I can do an hour every couple months and LOVE it!

The Weekend

2010-02-17T14:27:00.000-08:00

Who knew the old original London Bridge is in Arizona?
Who knew Lake Havasu is less than 3 hours from Vegas?
Neither did we!

JJ had a great time playing at "the Beach."

We found a fun hike to explore. JJ needed a diaper change right in the middle of it, don't they always time it so right?!

Took a boat ride.

Going out to eat has been a nightmare with JJ lately. So we were suprised when he fell asleep right before our Valentines dinner and made the meal one of the highlights of the trip. We ate in peace and even enjoyed dessert before he cracked his eyes back open.

Month of Trains

2010-02-01T07:45:00.000-08:00

This is for the month of December...better late than never, right?!

JJ has loved trains from the beginning. This electric train sat in our closet for almost a year but we pulled it out just in time for Christmas. Maybe next year we'll put it around the tree?

We visited a nearby city that has a Train Celebration each December. We were able to see and ride all sorts of trains. It was great fun for us all, but especially for JJ.

This was my favorite train, antique style.

Christmas finally came and so did the Thomas Train table. As you can imagine, JJ has played on it every day since. It was a long time coming! It's funny how Christmas becomes a lot more exciting with kids.

Learned Something Today...

2010-01-29T13:03:00.000-08:00

What is Kitsch?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQSvoY6WSQM

Turns out, the very city I live in. Okay.

Addicted

2010-01-22T15:37:00.000-08:00

This kid is addicted to 2 things:

Fruit Snacks, we call them "gummies" at our house. We are partly to blame on this one. To get JJ out of a store or keep him happy in general, he immediately goes from defiant to agreeable when we pull some out. What can you do?! In this picture we were at Golden Spoon. Jeremy and I enjoyed our frozen yogurts in peace thanks to the little cup of gummies they offer for toppings.

Second vice: Daddy. He just can't get enough of him! Mondays are usually the hardest after having him around all weekend. Don't get me wrong, he's not really a Daddy or Mommy's boy. He just gets plenty of Mom during the week.
Yesterday while running errands, JJ says completely out of no where, "Where Daddy Go?"
I reply, "Daddy's at work" JJ says, "Go get him!" I had a good chuckle!

This last weekend we went on a hike called the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail. During the hike you go under 5 old tunnels along Lake Mead that are no longer being used. The trains used to carry supplies to Hoover Dam. Of course JJ loved them, it is really fun!

You can see we're coming up to a tunnel in this one.

What the hiking guide didn't tell us was that you can continue on after the five tunnels and hike on to Hoover Dam. It makes for a LONG walk(especially for the one carrying the kid), but we had a great time! Here is the new overpass, supposidly will be done near the end of this year.

I Knew This Day Would Come...

2010-01-14T13:28:00.000-08:00

Just not so soon!

JJ got a cast! Christmas night we put JJ to bed a little early. He skipped his day nap and was super ornery, so we figured he was ready. We put him in Nana's portacrib and shut the door. A few minutes later we discovered that he had gotten out! This was the first time he had successfully "jumped" out of a crib.

Long story made short...we took him to the doctor a few days later and he had a fracture in one bone. It took us a few days to take him in because he was playing, sleeping, and picking things up with both hands like usual. When the swelling didn't go down and he continued to not put weight on one arm, we took him in.

He'll be in this thing for about 5 weeks, so he's only got a few more weeks to go! Fortunately he's been really good about it, even though it goes all the way up his elbow. The first couple hours were tough, but it's been smooth after that. He's pretty proud to tell everyone why he has a cast. He says "jump crib, Nana's house, Daddy save me."

Here's another thing I didn't expect...

JJ stayed up to bring in the New Year! My parent's always have a big party New Year's Eve. I figured JJ would make it until 10:00 or 11:00. He was totally wired with all the cousins around, so he stayed happy the whole time. Around 11:30 the dancing starts on the top floor of our home. JJ LOVED it! He was chasing balloons and running into everyone. I snapped this picture with Grandma Spackman and Aunt Jeni in a moment when he actually sat down. Happy 2010 everyone!

A Year of Music

2010-01-09T12:49:00.000-08:00

This post was meant for New Year's, but you know how holidays go...

Jeremy and I finally broke free from the jaws of Law School this last year and had a lot of fun! Jeremy's really into music and I'm really into date nights, so this is what Las Vegas had to offer us...

10/10/08 - Dashboard Confessional & Plain White T's
11/16/08 - Smashing Pumpkins
4/5/09 - Fall Out Boy
5/30/09 - Offspring
6/4/09 - Taking Back Sunday
6/12/09 - Third Eye Blind
7/10/09 - Duran Duran
9/6/09 - Weezer & Blink 182
10/23/09 - Black Eyed Peas & U2

Wish we could've added Depeche Mode to the list but they doubled the ticket price for their Las Vegas show, too bad!

Elmo Cake for Little J

2009-12-18T13:36:00.000-08:00

JJ turned 2 today. Here's a quick run down on our little guy...

Nicknames: Little J, Mr. J, J-jers, Turd
Loves: Elmo, Thomas the Train, Garbage Trucks, M&Ms, Suckers, Swings at the Park, Snuggling
Hates: Diaper Changes, Bedtime, When we can't figure out what he's saying
Favorite things to say: "Daddy Hold You" "I Do It" "Fries & Nuggets"
Favorite Song/Book: The Wheels on the Bus

At 35 inches and somewhere in the mid 20's in weight, JJ is a ball of energy. He talks non-stop and wants to play without breaks. It's hard to believe we've been parents for 2 years, but we sure love him!

Angel Food Cake, Cool Whip, and Fruit. Yummy!

How Pumpkin Pies are Made...

2009-11-24T15:09:00.000-08:00

(Thanks Leslie/Bruce, for the funny forward :)
Hope you all have a happy Thanksgiving!

Grissini

2009-11-18T13:29:00.000-08:00

Have you tried these? They're a big hit at our house. I found them in the grocery store bakery. They're crunchy breadsticks. :)

Our Little Monkey

2009-11-02T15:12:00.001-08:00

We dressed JJ up as a Monkey for Halloween. He's pretty good at doing the actions and making the noises, so he fit the part.

We all reaped the benefits of Trick or Treating. :)

A Piano in My House

2009-10-30T21:35:00.001-07:00

I have much to celebrate! After moving out of my parent's home nearly 10 years ago...we got a piano, yeah! I've had various opportunities to play here and there, but it's just not the same when you have to leave home to find a piano to play. The fun news is that I'm actually teaching lessons! I only have 6 students, but that's enough to keep me occupied and probably all JJ can handle. I soon realized it's not the teaching that's a challenge, but keeping JJ happy and busy. Many thanks to my parent's who drove the piano down from the family store.

One Lucky Girl!

2009-10-26T13:32:00.000-07:00

This is a featherweight sewing machine. It was made in 1945 and I actually own it!!! I happened to be in the right place at the right time and my 2nd cousin just GAVE it to me! It belonged to my great aunt. If you can't tell, I LOVE it! I love that I have time for hobbies, it's been a LONG time! I joined a featherweight club here in Vegas and I can actually make things with it, it's wonderful!

The Diaper Changing Trick (revisited)

2009-10-21T13:46:00.000-07:00

I posted this EXACTLY 2 years ago...10/21/09 Well, this has become my new reality again...Sadie has required me to pull out this technique with her new found strengh, independence, and stubborness. Lucky me!

My sister-in-law Julie is a lifesaver! This summer while I was in Utah, she noticed how darn wiggly JJ is when I change his diaper. No matter how many times I tell him NOT to stick his hand down into you know what, he does it anyway! Totally gross! So, she showed me a new way to change his diaper. The picture below isn't the greatest, but as you can see, you simply place your leg over you child's belly and he's officially pinned. This simple trick has seriously saved me!

AAA

2009-10-16T13:31:00.000-07:00

I'm famous! Jeremy and I got AAA about a year ago after a couple expensive car problems. With our membership we get their magazines every other month. I submitted an idea on how to solve navigation disputes and they published it! I got a t-shirt and $25.00 bucks, can't complain! If you get one of these in the mail, my blurb is on page 17.

Fly Lady to the Rescue

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

So, I actually finished a book this last week...

I don't spend a lot of time reading, so this is an accomplishment! It has inspired and motivated me to clean, clean, clean!

The author has a website that I just added to my blog: www.flylady.net

She has a printable version of her zones, yeah!

http://www.flylady.net/images/Detailed_Cleaning_Lists.pdf

Bummer!

2009-10-05T14:30:00.000-07:00

Red Rock Casino Pool

Jeremy and I live really close to a Casino that has a great pool. There is a central water fountain, hot tubs with bubbles, great music, complimentary towels, etc. All you need is a room key to get in. Last summer, some family stayed there and let us keep their key afterwords. So, we've been enjoying it all year. This weekend our key got confiscated! Unfortunately they got smart and brought in a scanner to make sure your key is still active. We got to swim one last time, but now it is over, sad!

Organ Donor

2009-09-30T12:14:00.000-07:00

More than 100,000 Americans are waiting for an organ donation.
With the recent push for donating, I was motivated to pull our my drivers license to make sure I was one. I was surprised to find no heart indicating that I was. I know I have been in the past, but with the recent move from state to state, I guess it never got transferred over. Rather than go to the DMV and wait for a super long time, I found an alternative way to get registered. In Nevada all you have to do is download a form from the Nevada Donor Network, so I'm doing it today! If I can help someone else or even save a life, sign me up!

On a Cruise

2009-09-27T13:56:00.000-07:00

Okay, so the cruise was only 2 hours long, but we had a great time! It took us from Lake Mead to Hoover and back.

We got to spend some time in the Captain's Cabin and JJ helped steer the boat. It went about 5 miles an hour, so that wasn't a problem. It's fun playing tourist once and awhile!

Pass it On

2009-09-17T12:47:00.001-07:00

http://www.values.com/

Wish I saw more of these billboards in Las Vegas. They're great!

My Version of Twitter

2009-09-15T21:51:00.000-07:00

7:15 Brush teeth. I guess I forgot to set my alarm last night.

7:30 JJ is up. I change his diaper.

7:45 Change into workout clothes.

7:55 Prepared watered down juice for JJ.

8:00 Lift weights and a short ab workout while JJ and I watch Elmo, yeah!

8:10 Finished packing Jeremy's lunch.

8:15 Change DVD to Thomas the Train. per JJ's request.

8:25 Kissed Jeremy goodbye.

8:40 I change a #2 diaper.

8:50 Oatmeal with Peaches for breakfast while reading the paper. JJ has cereal.

9:00 No errands to run! Cleaned out sand table and added new sand. Played with JJ. Made sand snowmen.

10:00 Organize cd's while JJ looks at some new books.

10:40 Put JJ's shoes one. Going bye bye per JJ's request.

10:45 On a walk around the neighborhood. Packed a hat, small snack, and water for JJ.

11:00 Stop near a construction site to watch the trucks, a couple honked for us.

11:30 JJ "helps" me unload the dishes and water my grass plant.

11:45 JJ has a mini bagel and peas for lunch.

11:45 I make dressing for our salad tonight. I reassess the meal list for the week.

12:00 JJ down for nap.

12:05 Practice the piano.

12:30 I check my emails.

1:00 Have lunch. Leftovers from last night. Finish newspaper, place in recycle basket.

1:20 Walk to the mailbox. Read letter.

1:30 Talk to Jeremy.

1:40 Make a few phone calls

2:00 Type up this Twitter blog so far...

2:20 Sold something on Amazon, yeah!

2:30 Prepare things to go swimming. Can't find JJ's swimsuit?!

2:45 Watch old movie while I sew a few things.

3:30 JJ is up. Found swimsuit. Dress JJ and apply sunblock.

4:00 Drive to Red Rock Casino. Pretend I'm a guest and go swimming.

4:45 Try to distract JJ from the hot tub, he loves bubbles!

5:30 Pick up cilantro and mandarin oranges at the store.

6:25 Jeremy is home.

6:30 Finish preparing Strawberry Chicken Salad for dinner.

6:45 Jeremy and I enjoy dinner outside while JJ plays with sand table.

7:10 Dishes.

7:25 JJ gets an icee to keep him happy. We all go for a walk.

8:00 Struggle with JJ to change diaper and get PJ's on.

8:15 Brush JJ's teeth while Jeremy's pins him down.

8:20 Storytime.

8:30 JJ down for the night.

8:40 In JJ's room to soothe, gave him some water.

8:45 Writing some thank you notes.

9:15 Watch a little tv with Jeremy.

9:45 Wash face and brush teeth.

9:55 Reading Time magazine in bed.

10:15 I turn in, Jeremy continues to read.

Mile High City

2009-09-09T12:50:00.000-07:00

We spent Labor Day weekend in Denver. We visited both Jeremy's brother & sister-in-law and my Aunt & Uncle, oh yeah, we visited the Mets too!

JJ's highlight of the trip was riding all sorts of transportation: trains, trolley, buses airplanes.

My highlight was riding bikes in the mountains near Vail.

Jeremy's highlight was seeing both the Mets & Broncos all in one day!

Peach Heaven

2009-09-02T11:59:00.001-07:00

I canned about 50 pounds of peaches yesterday. It's something I really enjoy doing but it is time consuming and I'm exhausted afterword. I think I've canned peaches for 6 years straight, so I guess it's a tradition. I can't start the autumn season without doing it. I love oatmeal with peaches for breakfast, so I'm excited!

Just a phase I hope!!!

2009-08-31T14:19:00.000-07:00

Ever since JJ has been sitting up, I have given up on having an organized Tupperware drawer. I surrender to the toddler! A couple months ago I got at tip at Enrichment that has made it a little better though. Simply place the lid on all Tupperwares, if there is no lid, toss it! Now when JJ unloads the drawer, I have less to pick up and when I'm ready to grab one out the the drawer I don't have to hunt for the lid. This may sound silly to some of you, but it's one less headache for me!

JJ is going through a phase...or atleast I hope he is!!! See this innocent little boy? What the picture doesn't tell you is that it's 10:30 at night. The last few nights we have been putting JJ down around 8:30ish which usually is no problem. Lately we will put him down and 5 or 10 minutes later he is screaming with his leg propped up on the crib with his blankie and binkie on the floor. Rather than listen to him scream forever we give in and let him hang out with us a little longer. I usually wait for bedtime to pull out messy projects, like painting, but I guess JJ doesn't want to miss out anymore, bummer!

"Banka"

2009-08-23T14:41:00.000-07:00

JJ is 20 months and is talking a lot these days. He still speaks just single words, but he attempts to repeat anything we say. Some words come out right and others are a little off, but so cute! I love reviewing colors with him, the way he says yellow and purple is priceless.

"Nana and Banka" JJ's version of Grandma and Grandpa were in town this weekend. JJ got his first body sketch from Grandpa at church today. As long as I can remember, my Dad has distracted wiggly kids during sacrament by creating a masterpiece on a hand, arm, or leg with a pen. Unfortunately they don't last very long, so I took a snapshot of this one, it's a snake. He got a spider and a dog as well but they didn't last beyond church. Special traditions like these are the best, thanks Banka!

Look What I Found!

2009-08-05T21:09:00.000-07:00

While spending time at my parent's house, JJ and I discovered some old toys that took me down memory lane. I'm so excited to find them I'm tempted to bring them home with me!

Rainbow Brite

My Little Pony - I think her hair used to smell good, it has faded.

Pound Puppy

My Popple!!! I think this was my favorite find. I hope she survives the washer!

What I regret not finding: Several years ago we sold my tap shoes, I miss them. I guess I didn't know I'd be singing and dancing in my kitchen years later. Also, I wish I still had the character pillow I sewed in 7th grade, I miss it! It was two peas in a pod. Also, I know I had a carebear, don't know where it is anymore.

Too Many Kids in the Tub

2009-08-02T20:26:00.000-07:00

As I was giving JJ a bath in my parent's tub tonight it made me think about all the kids who have done the same. It's a little crazy to think I was once as small as he is now, playing with the same ducks and bathing under the same quote by Shel Silverstein:

I love this quote, it totally fits my family. I used to take baths with my 2 younger brothers and we would just laugh and laugh about it.

Sewing it Up!

2009-07-31T20:30:00.001-07:00

I've been sewing these past few days with my sister-in-law Jeni. We made Chelsea Bags by Amy Butler*. I was lucky to marry into a family with a couple of girls. Being near the end of my family, I always wanted a little sister. We have lots of fun!

I made this Mary Engelbreit one.
It's a fun pattern because they're reversible!

Jeni made the one only a High School girl could get away with. :)

*If anyone wants to borrow the pattern, I don't plan on making another one anytime soon, be the first to comment about it!

TRUCKS!

2009-07-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

JJ and I are having a great time spending time with family, as you can tell!

We went and visited Grandpa at work at IFA.

JJ is totally into trucks, trains, boats, pretty much anything that moves. It's really cute to hear him say these words. He says them over and over again of course.

JJ had a fun time turning the wheel and pulling the horn cord. He's a lucky little boy!

Pioneer Day

2009-07-25T22:18:00.000-07:00

JJ and I had a fun 24th of July in Utah. We enjoyed a Pioneer Day parade that passes right in front of my parent's house. JJ loved the trucks, music, and horses. Got some candy, gotta love the taffy.

I ran in a 5K fun run with my brother, sister, niece and nephews. It was a lot of fun and the best part was that it was FREE! My sister actually won the for the women and I had a fun sprint to the end. Nana had JJ in a stroller to watch me run by. We enjoyed a ward breakfast afterwords, they are the best!

I Heart Pink Ladies!

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

Have you ever had a Pink Lady apple? They are my favorite! They are so sweet and I swear sometimes they taste like watermelons. Unfortunately they're not usually the variety that goes on sale so I have to splurge sometimes, they're worth it!

7-11 Heaven

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

Free Slurpees on Saturday! I was driving around town today and noticed several 7-11 stations. It reminded me that Saturday is 7/11/2009. As far as I know, most franchises offer free Slurpees all day that day. They're the small ones, but you can't beat free! You may want to call ahead to make sure the one near you is celebrating.
Growing up, whenever two kids in the family happened to be 7 and 11 at the same time, my Mom would take just the two of us to get Slurpees and take pictures under the big sign. I was 7 when my sister Georgina was 11 and I was 11 when my brother Nathan was 7. It was a fun tradition!

In-n-Out

2009-07-06T13:35:00.000-07:00

Jeremy and I go to a new restaurant nearly every week in Las Vegas. We rarely go to one twice. Our one exception is In-n-Out. When you're in the mood for a burger and fries, you can't beat this. There are several locations in LV, so it's always a convenient stop. We've noticed that they're always busy, no matter what time you go. If you've been to an In-n-Out, you know they have a very simple menu. But did you know there is a "secret menu?" It's actually on their site: http://www.in-n-out.com/secretmenu.asp Next time you make a stop for a burger and fries we recommend the Monkey Fries, yum!

Kingman, Arizona - Summer 2008

Just FYI

2009-06-29T21:10:00.001-07:00

Just for your information...I DO NOT recommend these cereals. Jeremy described them as tasting "like cardboard" and I would have to agree. I guess I'm a sucker for cereal sales, but these were a bad idea.

The Brick Trick

2009-06-25T10:04:00.000-07:00

Jeremy and I read the newspaper everyday. We especially like the Sunday paper. A couple weeks ago I came accross this idea in the paper and I'm going to give it a try. It's called, the Brick Trick. You simply place a brick in the tank of your toilet and it saves as much as 8% of your water costs. I got the bricks at Home Depot for about 50 cents each. I guess they pay for themselves pretty quickly. :)

The Enemy

2009-06-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

NOT the cute little boy in the picture, but the sandtable. We got this for JJ a couple months ago and I have to admit, it is driving me crazy! JJ loves it, but inevitably it ends up everywhere. It is such a mess! It doesn't help that JJ doesn't understand that his sand toys stay outside, he gets covered in sand from head to toe, and we don't have grass to put it over. That is one reason we got it in the first place, we don't have much of a backyard, it's Las Vegas. Last week I spent an hour cleaning out the table and the underneath mess and replaced the sand with rice. I put a tarp underneath aswell. This has seemed to help, so all is not lost. When JJ sticks his tounge out as he concentrates, I know he's loving it, I just get to be patient, ugh!

JJ is 18 months today! He loves cars, trucks and trains AND sticking Qtips in his ears!

Happy Day!

2009-06-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce I finished another year of teaching, yeah! I'm even more excited to say I am staying home this coming fall! It was weird but wonderful to be home this week, to be JJ's Mom 100%. Last summer when I took the job, Jeremy had just taken the bar and we had months to wait for his results. I guess you could say I was the "back-up plan." Fortunately we didn't need it and Jeremy is happy with his job.
I really enjoyed teaching this year, but it was not especially easy for many reasons. We had a good friend watch JJ in her home with her kids, so it was a nice set up there. I just had to put a lot of personal life things on hold including exercise, an organized home, this blog... I'm happy those things will get the attention they need again. I used JJ's nap time this week to work on the home and Jeremy and I were able to fit in a lot more exercise than we've done all year. I was able to run 5 out of 7 days this week, yeah! I'm excited to get back in shape and happy to be JJ's Mom all day.

I taught High School Home Ec. for 2 1/2 years in Oregon; having JJ the end of that 3rd year. I didn't know I had another year in me, but it worked out. It's just nice to know it's all behind us now. Teaching is something I may get back into someday, but it's time for a break! This is a picture of the school I taught at, Shadow Ridge - Home of the Mustangs.

Playing Tourist

2009-05-10T13:56:00.000-07:00

For Jeremy's 29th Birthday, we went to meet the President.
Or did we...

I got to catch up with old friends.

JJ got freaked out on top of a tiger from Siegfried and Roy.

Jeremy spent some quality time with Bond.

He also gave Tiger a few tips on golfing.

I got to smell Shaq's stinky armpit.

We got in free to the Madame Tussaud's wax museum. Tickets are 25 bucks each, we definitely wouldn't have gone otherwise, but we had lots of fun! Happy Birthday Jeremy!

Keeps Me Happy...

2009-05-02T20:50:00.000-07:00

So, I'm the kind of nerd that listens to church music not only on Sundays, but throughout the week. It keeps me in such a good mood and brings the spirit into my day. I'm always curious to find out what other people are listening to. My youngest brother Nate, who just graduated from Utah State today, suggested this CD and I LOVE IT! It was his mission favorite.

The picture is fuzzy, it's called, A Nashville Tribute to the Prophet Joseph. I had a hard time picking just one to share. Please LEAVE A COMMENT if you have a favorite CD to suggest!

We've Been Busy...

2009-04-25T22:11:00.000-07:00

Pushing JJ around in his new car! For JJ, it was love at first sight. The moment he layed eyes on it, he was sold. Did we as parents even have a choice? Though it was an unplanned purchase, we've had a lot of fun with it so far. There's a horn that makes noise and a hood to stow his snacks and hat, that he refuses to wear 99% of the time. All the girls want a ride with JJ in his new set of wheels. Honk Honk!

Baby Animal Days...Come Join Us!

2009-04-09T08:13:00.001-07:00

I just got back from a run around the high school and up around the temple in Logan. In town for a few days visiting family. It's always nice to come home! So, I'm taking JJ to Baby Animal Days at the American West Heritage Center, tomorrow at 10:30ish. If you're up for it, come join us!

JJ update: He's been walking for awhile now, but he still prefers to crawl. I just discovered another hole in his pjs, I've already thrown out a few after the holes got too big. I tried fixing one pair and he just ripped out the patch, so much for the effort.

25 Random Things

2009-03-26T19:32:00.000-07:00

1. I've been to Europe 5 times, thanks Dad!
2. My son JJ peed the second he was born, the nurses were all laughing.
3. Jeremy and I have been to 4 Mets games and counting...
4. I played the viola in middle and high school, now only at church. :)
5. My only dog was hit and killed by a car. It broke my heart!
6. I rarely watch tv, I don't like it very much.
7. I learned to crawl in France.
8. I never owned a Barbie. I blame my 8 brothers.
9. My favorite High School sport is Cross Country. I still LOVE it!
10. I collect "mini" things.
11. I was an EFY counselor.
12. My husband is SMART! He's a lawyer.
13. I don't usually do things like this. I came up with this list while I was running.
14. Jeremy and I moved to Las Vegas for the weather.
15. I was a cheerleader my Senior year.
16. I'd like to work at a bakery someday.
17. TIME is my favorite magazine.
18. I want to get a Masters Degree.
19. I love to hike and to be outdoors.
20. I taught 3 years of High School: Nutrition, Cooking, Sewing, Child Development, Finance.
21. Jeremy and I met through a church calling.
22. I wish I could've fit in beauty school. So much to do, so little time.
23. I am a member of the 100 yard Aggie club.
24. I grew up in a house that is over 100 years old. It used to be a college fraternity.
25. My parents let us watch R movies when we were little. We even watched some for FHE.

I copied this from my facebook page. I guess it was a tag, so consider yourself tagged if you got through all 25. :)

Singing Singing All the Day

2009-03-22T21:23:00.000-07:00

I find myself singing to JJ all the time. Lately it's to distract him from his fussiness - diaper changes, car seat time, etc. Most of the time I'm singing primary songs or others songs I learned along the way, but sometimes is is nice to let a cd do the work and learn some fun new songs. I discovered I'm a little picky though on what kid music I can actually handle. I recently threw away a kid cd I COULD NOT stand. It has to be at least somewhat bearable since we seem to listen to the songs over and over.
This is my latest favorite:

If you have any board books, chances are you have one written by Sandra Boyton. I got a couple when JJ was born, thanks Mary, including Snuggle Puppy. That song is on this cd. I've requested her other cds at the library, hopefully they're as fun as this one. When I'm in the right mood I find myself not only singing to this cd, but dancing in the car, in the kitchen, you get the idea. It's pretty funny to watch JJ when he's trying to dance too, he moves his head back and forth, it's hard not to laugh. If you've got a cd to recommend or want to tease me for random dancing, leave a comment.

Hanging out with the Blue Man

2009-03-16T21:37:00.000-07:00

Jeremy and I went to the Blue Man show this last weekend. As you may know, many Las Vegas shows use audience participation. Early into the show the 3 BM started walking into the crowd. We were in the front row of the second section so we felt pretty safe where we sat. As they got closer I thought cool, we’re going to see them up close. Then before I knew it, they were all right in front of us. They were totally creepy with their eyes just starring into you. Seriously intimidating! I dug my face into Jeremy’s chest I was so freaked out. I guess that made me an easy target because one of the BM had my hand and was pulling me to my feet. I kept thinking, what are the odds, there are hundreds of people here!

So, they got me on stage, still totally freaked out. They put a blue costume on me and placed me behind a make-shift table with them. If you’ve seen the show, you may remember the twinkie scene, well that’s what we did. The 4 of us enjoyed twinkies together. They didn’t speak to me once. They would either squeeze my hand or use their eyes to tell me what they wanted me to do next. Soon after the twinkies were gone, the BM next to me started exploding goo through his chest. I screamed mostly because I knew I was next, I had a hole in my chest too! A few seconds later we all had goo gushing out of our chests. I could smell it pretty quickly and realized it was just mushed banana, but I swear there was something else in it. They started eating it and they made me try it too. They scooped the extra goo into a cute container and topped it with a bow and they set me free. I was able to enjoy the rest of the show safely by Jeremy. It was a pretty crazy experience!

My own personal container of goo &
blue paint to remember them by.

HELP!

2009-03-06T20:59:00.001-08:00

I've just been called to be the Primary Chorister in my ward. I know many of you have had this same opportunity so PLEASE share with me your ideas and advice! I've spent some time in primary and have been able to watch a variety teaching styles, but it is one thing to watch and another thing to actually do, I'm definitely nervous. As long as it's like other callings, I guess I'll get the hang of it eventually. Until then...HELP!

Any Ideas?

2009-02-27T15:18:00.001-08:00

So the previous owner of our home left some junk in the garage including:

an empty fish tank
4 brooms
3 dust pans
2 weight scales
the for sale sign he used to sell the home
dish network stuff
several disgusting rugs
last years Chinese calendar
and bunch of these:

Any guess what they are? All I can think of is some kind of landscaping thing?

I will probably end up putting them on freecycle.com, unless they are really useful.

This is Our Back Yard!

2009-02-21T13:27:00.001-08:00

Jeremy's family was in town for the 3 day weekend. We went to the Red Rock Canyon which is in the west end of Las Vegas. We found a hike with a waterfall. I love waterfalls! This canyon is about 5 minutes away from our house, it's awesome! We're excited to explore it, since we're so close!

That's cousin Macy above JJ.

Aunt Jeni, Aubrie, and Macy.

You Just Can't Beat It

2009-01-31T14:05:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things about being a Mom is all the snuggling. There's nothing like a well rested kid just waking up from a nap. JJ loves to snuggle with Mom, Dad, and especially his blankie. He will drop everything and crawl to his blankie whenever it's in sight.

One of his favorite positions. How can this be comfortable?

It's times like this that I never want him to grow up, ever!