The Jones Family

Anyone for Stripes!?!?!

2011-08-23T10:22:00.000-07:00

Just call me crazy! Yes, I don't know what I was thinking either?! I am seriously a glutten for punishment. I start looking thru magazines, see cute pictures and think to myself, "I can do that." :-) Well, let me tell you that I will reconsider the next time I think about painting stripes that are different sizes and different widths apart. But I do have to say that after two days of work, 10 rolls of tape, and a sore hand and back, that these stripes look dang good!!! And they passed Tyler's measuring test. They are all perfectly level and perfectly distanced. :-) Can I get a big, "Oh yay!"

10 rolls of tape (a little more expensive then I thought - blast!)

Before

After

I like to Eat, Eat, Eat…Apples and Bananas!!!

2011-08-22T10:12:00.000-07:00

This girl is the best little eater!!! Around 4 months I started giving her rice cereal and she thought it was okay. Then I started trying to give her baby food around 6 months, but she wanted nothing to do with it. I know in her mind she was thinking, "Just give me the real stuff!". So that's exactly what we started doing! You had this girl a banana and she will mush it up between her gums until it's gone! Her favorites are watermelon, graham crackers, bananas, baked potato, brocolli, yogurt (I will give her little bites of mine).

At her 9 mo. check-up she weighed in at 22.5 lbs. (only 6 lbs. lighter than Addison) And she is already beating them in height. :-) And just for a memory…If I got a dollar for every time someone stopped me to tell me how "fat" my baby was, I could count it as a part time job! And for the record, I prefer chubby, healthy, pudgey, cute, anything over "fat". I don't think babies can be "fat"?

First Day of Preschool 2011

2011-08-16T10:36:00.000-07:00

Addison started Preschool today! She was so excited to put on her backpack and go to school like the big kids! I can't believe that she is so grown up. She usually never lets me take pictures of her, but she requested a picture by the Happy Hopper frog. :-) We love our Addi!

Lizzy's Baptism Day

2011-08-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

(click on the collage to enlarge)

Saturday, Aug. 13th, 2011 Lizzy was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We were so grateful to be there and share such a speical day with her and with friends and family. The spirit was so strong and I'm so grateful that Cooper was able to witness and feel that spirit as he is preparing to be baptized next year! Lizzy looked so beautiful and it was so neat to see her glowing after she was lifted out of the water by her dad. And I was so impressed when I heard that she had worked hard and read the entire Book of Mormon by herself before her baptism day. Another special note…she was baptized at her stake center which happens to sit right next to the Sacramento Temple. It was a special day. Thank you for sharing it with us Lizzy! We love you!

More fun pictures from CA trip...

2011-08-12T11:27:00.000-07:00

I just want to kiss this face over and over again.
She is so yummy and I love holding her, hugging her, and kissing her.
Please stop growing! Please stop getting bigger! Why can't you stay just like this!?

Since my parents moved they don't have a pool anymore, but they do have a fountain. Who would have thought the kids would have so much fun on a rock fountain!? They loved climbing up and down and up and down and up and down....you get the picture. :-)

In these pictures you can see them playing dragons (Cooper and Lizzy) and princesses (Ella and Addison)

And here's Clara wanting to be with the "big kids". She tries to follow them everywhere.
She also tried to fit a river rock in her mouth. Fun times!

And who said kids can't sleep 3 to a bed anymore?
No one wanted to sleep on the floor or on the couch so we made it work and they loved it because then they weren't alone. :-) Good thing our family is short.

Hair or No Hair?

2011-08-12T11:24:00.000-07:00

How is this possible…you have two sisters, that have two daughters born months apart, and one is COMPLETELY bald, and the other has enough hair for herself and to share!? It's okay, I love my bald babies! :-) And Valerie (our newest niece) is cute as a button!

Buuble Fun at Grandma & Grandpa's!!!

2011-08-12T11:07:00.000-07:00

My parents (Wagners) have this awesome jacuzzi tub in their new house that the kids love! (it's the only time they want to take a bath every night) :-)

Well, lesson learned that jacuzzi tub jets + almost 1/2 bottle of bubbles = crazy bubbles!!! Just when you thought the bubbles were starting to disappear…just turn on the jets and MAGIC…they're back. :-) I think my mom had bubbles in the tub until the next day. Sorry mom.

Ella was LOVING the bubbles! (as you can guess by the pictures) It was so awesome what she was getting the bubbles to do! And luckily we gave Clara a bath earlier because I think we would have lost her under all the fluffiness. :-)

Quick trip to California

2011-08-11T10:56:00.000-07:00

We took a quick weekend trip to California for our niece/cousin Lizzy's baptism! It was so fun to see everyone and I did not want to leave. But it was fun letting the kids document the trip for us! :-)

Here are Cooper's pictures from the airport…

P.S. I don't know why I look kind of orange. It must have been the lighting because that is my natural skin color/tan (not even a spray tan). That's what happens when you swim every day in AZ!

Here are Ella's pictures…

And more from Cooper…

First Day Of School 2011

2011-08-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

Aug. 10, 2011 marked another "First Day of School" memory moment! Except this year is especially monumental because I now have 2 kids gone all day to school! Cooper started 2nd grade and Ella is going to full-day kindergarten. (which she loves and was so ready for!) I didn't think I would be sad to see them start school, but I admit that my eyes got a little moist when I walked into the house after dropping them off and couldn't believe how quiet it was. I could tell that parts of my family were missing and our house felt kind of empty. I will miss them every day, but I'm excited for them to learn and grow and have wonderful new experiences. :-)

We got up early, had a special pancake breakfast, took pictures, and off we go!

She can't resist hugging Cooper. It drives him crazy, but it's good for him. :-)

Mom and Ella

Cooper ready to go to class. He is out in the portables this year with all the other 2nd graders. He says he doesn't like it because you have to walk farther to get to everything. :-)

8 Amazing Years!

2011-07-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

Let's see in 8 years we have:

-lived in the ghetto of Tempe
-bought our first house
-learned how to sew bedding, curtains, pillows for the house
(Thank you Grandma Wagner for the sewing machine! It's sewed miles of fabric by now!)
-had a baby boy
-worked, went to school, and worked some more
-had a baby girl
-practically remodeled our house
-started my tanning business
-worked, still going to school, and more work
-had another baby girl
-graduated from ASU
-made our first trip out of the US to Japan (so fun!)
-sold our first house
-bought our second house
-built a pool (that was an event)
-had ANOTHER baby GIRL
(I totally thought we would have all boys, but I guess "He" showed me who's really the boss. :-)
-sold my tanning business
-Tyler working so hard to support a family of 6!

I know I am missing a lot. Somewhere in between all of that is hours of exercising to try and lose baby weight. Hours of feeding babies, changing diapers, potty training, cleaning up messes, trying our best to get the kids in bed so that we can have at least an hour of peace together before we both hit our pillows. Hours of Tyler in his "wood shop" trying to create something for me that I found in a magazine. :-) Hours of yardwork. But most of all hours of fun, excitement, unknowns, frustration, sadness, and every other humanly possible emotion. :-) But that's life, right?! And we wouldn't trade it for anything!

I am so grateful to be married to the most wonderful, patient, kind, sensitive, strong, righteous, charitable, good, valiant, selfless man. I often tell people that I married up. It is completely true. Everyday I thank Heavenly Father for bringing us together. I can't imagine my life without Tyler. I love you babe!!! Thank you for the best 8 years of my life! Can't wait to share more with you!

Christmas Morning

2010-12-25T13:45:00.000-08:00

Nativity 2010

2010-12-24T13:26:00.000-08:00

Christmas wouldn't be the same if we didn't act out the nativity. And doing it with in-laws, brothers, and sisters, makes it fun because we have enough people to cover all the parts and some. :-) This year's cast:

Baby Jesus - Clara
Mary - Ella
Joseph - Kristen
Donkey - Cooper
Angel - Addison
Shepherds - Annie, Jaimie, Sean
Wise Men - Tyler, Blake, Cody
Film crew - Caitlin
Narrator - Mom & Dad Jones
Audience - G&G Chambers

Addison was very excited to be the angel and she was so graceful as she flew in and out of the room. But after wards she asked me where her wings were. :-)

The wisest men I ever did saw.

2010-12-24T13:25:00.000-08:00

film lady

Christmas Eve pajamas from Grandma Jones

I looked out the window...

2010-12-24T13:19:00.000-08:00

...and what did I see???

Popcorn balls popping on the tree!!!

It's been a long Eric & Kim Jones tradition to take all the kids to G&G Chambers right before Christmas and make popcorn balls. As soon as I heard about this tradition I was all over it! Who doesn't love popcorn balls!? We're so grateful that they still let us raid their house. :-)

No Grandma! That's not a popcorn ball! That's Tyler's hand!

Cute couple

Marble fun!

Grandpa Chambers, Aunt Jaimie, Uncle Blake, Clara

2010-12-23T23:15:00.000-08:00

Crimped Cutie

2010-12-23T23:00:00.000-08:00

I got a package in the mail from my mom about a month ago. It's contents:

- My old crimper from the 80's

- My waver

- Bows and accersories I wore as a kid

Now here's what's scary...

it is all in style again! But let me tell you - they don't make things like they used to. I doubt my flat iron will make it past 2 years and my crimper is over 20 years old!

Puzzle Fun

2010-12-22T13:10:00.000-08:00

The holidays aren't the same if you don't sit down and spend time doing puzzles. I absolutely LOVE puzzles but can never seem to find the time to start and finish one. (I've started many...) Well, come to find out that Cooper also shares my love for puzzles so we put together this world puzzle. It was so much fun!

We Wish You a Merry Christmas!

2010-12-20T22:47:00.000-08:00

Every year we go caroling in Lehi with Grandma Jones and family. It's so fun to see the cousins and the kids have a great time. I'm grateful that we get to go because I don't know that our kids would know what caroling is otherwise. :-) (I think it's a dying tradition these days.)

Grandma Jones brought this fun hat for the kids to share. The tip of the hat dances around as it plays "Jingle Bell Rock". He has been wearing every day since.

Mom, Me, and Clara (behind the blanket)

I love these two!

She can melt my heart in seconds with that little grin. :-)

2010-12-20T22:31:00.000-08:00

The cousins...Really Tyler's cousin's kids. But who wants to try and explain 2nd cousins to their kids? So we just tell our kids that these are their cousins. :-)

Can you tell Ella loves caroling!?

BFF - Glen and Cooper

2010-12-20T22:25:00.000-08:00

Every year Grandma Jones makes the most AMAZING candy trains for each family. The kids love them and love the candy! :-) She's been making them exactly like what you see in the pictures since Tyler was a kid. (Even the Santas are the same every year.) They're so fun and a really special tradition!

Addison thinks this is all hers! She is our candy girl. :-)

Happy Birthday!

2010-12-19T22:37:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderful birthday this year! It fell on Sunday so we had our Ward Christmas Program in sacrament meeting. The choir was wonderful and I always enjoy hearing songs about Christ's birth. Our primary class sang "Happy Birthday" to me and we acted out the nativity. After church I talked to family and then we went and saw Blake get set-apart as Elder's quorum president. Afterwards, we had dinner and dessert at Tyler's parents'. Tyler made a cake for the FIRST time! (thanks babe it was yummy!) And then we headed home and I skyped my parents.

Here's to another great year...1 year older, and hopefully wiser too!

The kids made me pictures for my birthday. Those are my favorite types of gifts!

Cooper helped me read my birthday cards...he can even read cursive!

Good Friend

2010-12-18T22:27:00.000-08:00

Addison is so good with Clara. She is always want to help with everything - bathing, clothing, feeding, holding, loving, playing. Someday Clara will realize how blessed she is to have Addi for a big sister.

I'm not sure if this is love or torture. :-)

Just when I think Addi is driving Clara crazy, she gets a smile. And Clara still hasn't smiled at me or Tyler - only Addi.

6 weeks

Girls Just Like to Have Fun!

2010-12-16T22:19:00.000-08:00

Now I don't know about you, but my idea of fun is shoveling dirt/mud for 3 hours in the rain! Let me explain...

We are building a pool in our new backyard (yes, we moved and I haven't blogged about it yet) and we've been trying to stay in budget which means that we get to perform manual labor. Yipee! Manual Labor = Exercise (I'm trying to think the glass is half full) So on this special occasion we were trying to make sure that we passed our final inspection which meant that you could only have a max. 2in. space between the bottom of the pool fence and the ground. In certain areas we had as big as 1 ft. between the fence and ground. I called Tyler and he was going to have the inspection called off for another day since it would be dark by the time he got home from work. But I didn't want anymore delays. I got the kids situated with plenty of snacks, busted out the hat so rain wouldn't get in my eyes, and went to work. I have to be honest it was a little harder than I thought it was going to be. :-) I started with a wheel barrow, but that only lasted thru 3 loads because the wheels became caked up with inches thick of mud. So then I just started getting dirt/mud from anywhere I could and eventually I made my little mounds. And guess what!?....the next morning we passed our final inspection! Swimming here we come!!!

my lovely mounds of mud

Dance Recital

2010-12-09T12:06:00.000-08:00

Ella had her dance recital and the dances were all so cute and I couldn't believe how well they all did! They all knew their stuff! It was a really fun night!

I love that Ella loves to dance! Here's a little Jones' family secret: After dinner Tyler will take our itouch, turn on some jazz music, and we'll all dance while we clear the table, clean dishes, and get the kids ready for bed. Yes! This is the same Tyler that will tell you that he doesn't dance! :-) I'm glad he's willing to do it behind closed doors because the kids love it! And Ella hasn't gotten some of her moves from her dad! :-)

Ella and her amazing teacher Miss Michelle

Dance Baby Dance! 2010

2010-12-09T12:05:00.000-08:00

Thank you Grandma Jones for coming out and supporting Ella!

Think Ella's favortite part of having a dance recital is being able to use Mom's makeup. :-)

Four Weeks/One Month

2010-12-08T11:56:00.000-08:00

Clara is one month old now and she amazes us each day with her tricks. Her newest trick...holding her head up like she's 6 months old. :-) She is so strong and loves to play peek-a-boo over your shoulder. And eventhough she doesn't smile at us yet, she makes us smile everyday! She is our little peanut. :-)

Three Weeks

2010-11-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how fast the weeks are going by! Our little girl is already 3 weeks old!

We're tring to savor every moment.

Thanskgiving Feast Part II

2010-11-25T11:35:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was really nice this year.

Since my sister headed to Utah with her family, my parents came to Arizona to spend the holiday with us. While the boys were at the Phoenix car show, Mom and I strapped on our aprons (a little bit too late though because I had already spilled on myself) and went to work creating a delicious and beautiful Thanksgiving Dinner (that we actually ate for lunch because we went to the movies afterwards...fun family tradition started by my Grandma Wagner). This is the 2nd time that I've made an entire Thanksgiving dinner and I have to give myself two thumbs up. Everything turned out perfectly and almost everything was made from scratch!

The two cooks

Addi waiting patiently to dig in! :-)

Cooper found the wish bone

Addison thought she found the wish bone. :-)

2010-11-25T11:34:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Feast Part I

2010-11-22T11:23:00.000-08:00

Cooper invited us to his 1st Grade Thanksgiving Feast & Program. The kids did a wonderful job reciting their parts, singing songs, and cracking a few jokes. And of course it wouldn't have been the same if we didn't dress to our parts...Pilgrims and Indians. :-)

The toughest Indian...

...and the cutest pilgrim ever to reach America.

Grandma was a good sport to dress up also. :-) Addison wouldn't have anything to do with it.

Cookies! Cookies! and more Cookies!

2010-11-20T11:41:00.000-08:00

Any visit with Grandpa wouldn't be complete without making one thing...

Chocolate Chip Cookies!!!

Some special things about making cookies with Grandpa:

1) He'll always let you eat as much dough as possible.

2) He hardly measures things, but somehow the cookies always turn out awesome!

3) It always brings the family together.

4) He doesn't mind little hands pressing the dough down on the cookie sheets.

5) Did I say that he lets you eat as much dough as you want? :-)

6) There's always enough for everyone, and if there's not then he'll make more!

Two Weeks

2010-11-20T11:12:00.000-08:00

Clara is now 3 weeks old and already learning how to pray! :-) This girl knows what's important...sleep for mom and dad and remembering her Father in Heaven. We couldn't have asked for a more patient, calm, and happy baby. She is amazing!

One Week

2010-11-16T15:05:00.000-08:00

One week old...

...and adored by all (especially this older sister).

Sisters

2010-11-15T17:59:00.000-08:00

Since we moved into our new house Ella and Addi are sharing a room. Tyler and I were a little nervous at first and didn't know what to expect. But I think from these pictures you can see that they couldn't be happier together...

We're so glad that they love each other. Hopefully this doesn't change when they become teenagers. :-)

Cute Memories

2010-11-10T14:57:00.000-08:00

Cute outfit from Great-Grandma Wagner

Coming home from the hospital.

Soaking up some sun.

2010-11-10T14:56:00.000-08:00

All smiles

Who is this handsome guy?

Visiting Great-Grandma Jones

Welcome Visitors

2010-11-09T13:18:00.000-08:00

2010-11-09T13:17:00.000-08:00

Ten little fingers & Ten Little Toes

2010-11-08T13:13:00.000-08:00

Clara Jones

November 8, 2010

8 lbs. 12 oz.

21.5 in.

I am so grateful to have another little person in our home! Having a baby makes you humbly reflect on what is most important in life. I am so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father that has trusted Tyler and I with one of his special spirits. She is beautiful in every way and we are just loving her to pieces!

I love drugs!

2010-11-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

Now that might sound like an odd title for a blog. But if you were...

- 10 months (because we all know that 40 weeks is not really 9 months) pregnant

- having back labor (imagine someone stabbing you in the back non-stop with knives)

- had 3 kids and a husband to take care of

AND

- your doctor can't send you to the hospital until Sunday night to be induced because your body is like a steal trap door

You would love drugs too!!!

(I am thankful for a Heavenly Father who inspired doctors to make the birthing process a little less painful than in the pioneer days - or when my mom was still having babies.) :-)

Halloween! Halloween!

2010-10-31T13:58:00.000-07:00

(click on collage to make larger)

Halloween Parties!

1. Addison was Dorothy from Wizard of Oz for halloween this year. It was the best garage sale find ever! ($1 for dress and red shoes)

2. Addison LOVES to go to her siblings school parties and get in on all the fun! Here is she is getting all the candy that she can from the pinata at Ella's preschool party.

3. Ella reciting her songs and poems she's learned so far in school. She was Princess Leia for Halloween.

4. Addi getting some donut action.

5. More CANDY!

6. Sisters

7. Ella getting some donut action.

8. Cooper was a storm trooper for Halloween. I found his costume at the same garage sale as Addi's. Double score!!!

9. Ella and her best friend Kaid (I mean batman) :-)

10. This is Addi's favorite silly face.

11. Waiting for the pinata to break.

12. More silly faces.

13. Happy Halloween!

Jones Annual Pumpkin Carving

2010-10-30T11:52:00.000-07:00

We had our annual Jones Pumpkin Carving party at G&G Jones' house. It is more and more fun as the kids get older and want to pick out their own designs and carve their own pumpkins. And let me tell you...they get their eye for detail from their Dad. :-)

Addison is a "me-do" and woudn't let anyone help her. I'm just grateful we made it thru the holiday without a visit to the ER. :-)

Tyler was so good and helped get Cooper & Ella started on theirs - he didn't even get a chance to carve his.

The newlyweds

I love the Jones grin!

And drum roll please...
Here are the T&K Jones 2010 pumpkins...

Cooper's masterpiece (yes, he did most of this by himself)

Kristen's

1st prize goes to Ella! She did this all by herself!
(Every time I look at this it makes me happy.)

Addison's

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

More Football Pictures

2010-09-17T14:05:00.000-07:00

Flag Football

2010-09-17T12:24:00.000-07:00

Our neighbor told us they were signing their son up for flag football this fall, and Cooper thought that sounded like fun. So we got him registered and he has been loving it! I love that he is willing to try new things.

Team: Jets

Position: Offense & Defense

Field Name: Mr. C

I love to see the temple...

2010-08-29T16:50:00.000-07:00

They are building a temple in Gilbert, AZ and our Stake Presidency challenged each family to go to the temple site and take a family picture before the ground breaking. It's so pretty because it's just a huge grass field right now. Well, rumors had been stirring that the groundbreaking would be in early November, so as much as I hate taking pictures while I am pregnant, I knew this was going to have to be the exception. It was a little sunny and windy, and until I stepped out on the field we didn't realize how muddy it was either. :-) But we're so glad we went and we cannot wait to have a temple so close to us. What a wonderful blessing that will be!

Gilbert, Arizona temple site

I decided to take a little bit of the soil home with me to remember the day. :-)

Rain, Ward Campout, More Rain

2010-08-27T16:15:00.000-07:00

The sun was shining, Tyler took a half day at work, Grandpa Jones picked us up in the 'burb', and off we headed to Payson for our Annual Cornerstone Ward Campout. Weather forcast: Scattered T-storms. For some reason we thought they would scatter around us and we would be fine. Boy were we wrong! Anyone looking for a new tent? I HIGHLY recommend ours! It stood thru rain, hail, rain, rain, and more rain. Every time we thought it was finally stopping a new wave of drops came. While rushing rivers evolved on each side of our tent, Tyler and his dad dug ditches with a sledge hammer to guide the puddles to the rivers and away from our tent. After being stuck in the tent for a couple of hours the kids started to get hungry, but there was only one problem... we had brought hot dogs to grill over the fire. But how do you have a fire in POURING rain? Fortunately, Tyler had brought our little camp stove and so while Dad held the umbrella, Tyler grilled hot dogs over the camping stove, all in the POURING rain. (and I was so bummed because the camera was in the car so I couldn't take a picture of them) But just try to picture it and it will make you smile. :-) The next day it sprinkled a little in the morning and then the sun finally came out, and everywhere you walked there was MUD. I wish I would have taken pictures of some of the kids covered in mud. :-) The kids were in heaven and all of us parents were just laughing and reminding ourselves that "dirt don't hurt".

Our little camper. I love that our kids love to go camping!

We arrived to the campsite just in time to put our tent up, unload the sleeping bags, and then the rain began.

The clouds coming in.

Next day cleanup.

The guys cooking breakfast:

Bro. Yarbrough, Pres. Merrill, & Dad

Cooper and Ella playing in the mud.

Friendly Visitor

2010-08-19T18:29:00.000-07:00

Just when I thought having a dog, frogs, and a fish were enough, this little guy comes into the picture...

Cooper found him/her in Addi's room.

Can you see his insides? Pretty cool!

But he only visited for a couple of minutes until we finally convinced Cooper that he would be dead by morning if we kept him in the jar. Plus, we told him wouldn't it be fun to try to catch him again tomorrow? :-) He didn't fall for that one. But I'm glad he was okay letting it go. I don't do well with dead animals (especially while being pregnant).

Called To Serve

2010-08-18T14:34:00.000-07:00

We waved goodbye to Wes early this morning as he headed thru security to catch his flight to the Missionary Training Center in SLC, Utah.

His final destination: Barcelona, SPAIN

We are going to miss his laugh, smile, jokes, tank tops, short shorts, and fashion, but the people of Spain will be blessed to have him. He is going to be an amazing missionary!

The Jones Fam (minus me and Cooper...Cooper doesn't like taking group pictures, and I don't pose in pictures when I'm pregnant and only had 10 min. to get ready - sorry.)

The bro's

Grandma, Aunt, & Addi

See you in 2 years Wes!!!

First Day of School 2010

2010-08-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

Where did the summer go? AND When did my babies grow up?

Cooper started 1st grade today. His teacher is Ms. Liddy and he was excited to find out that he has a lot of his friends from last year in his class. The house was very quiet today and I couldn't help but wonder what he was doing all day. I can't believe he's old enough to be at school all day!

Ella started preschool today. She went back to Ms. Kim for another year of fun! And all morning all she could talk about was how excited she was to see her "boyfriend" Kaid. :-) Should we be worried? :-)

And so that just leaves Mom & this little cutie-pie.

29 Going on 60

2010-08-08T16:18:00.000-07:00

Tyler turned the big 2-9 (only 1 year away from 30 - yikes!) and he says he's starting to feel old. :-) Well, I think he is even MORE good looking and fabulous at 29 as he was at 21 when I met him! And he is the perfect Dad and Husband!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TYLER!!!

WE LOVE YOU!!!

Addison's new favorite: "Cake and Ice Cream Mom, Yeah!"

"...29 years older and wiser too!"

Pre-Birthday Party @ the Jones':

The brothers + Cooper

"I love cake!"

Fathers & Sons (plus some daughters)

2010-08-07T14:10:00.000-07:00

Tyler and Cooper missed our ward's Father's & Sons campout because Cody and Caitlin got married the same weekend. So Tyler promised Cooper he would take him camping before school started. But you can't take one child camping and not expect the rest to not want to come along for the fun, right!? Tyler made plans with a buddy of his from ASU, graciously agreed to take the girls along too, and loaded up the car to head towards Payson. All-in-all it was a successful trip...only 2 vomits, a couple of owies, 1 poopy pants, a rain storm, and girls refusing to use the outhouse. :-)

The kids

Can you figure out what Ella is hiding in her shirt? :-)

She can hang with the boys, but she is all girl!

Tim showing how skipping rocks is really done. Cooper said he was really good at it! :-)

Queen of the hill

Cute Addi

Home w/out Mom

2010-07-23T14:23:00.000-07:00

While I was at Girls Camp Tyler had to get the kids up, dressed, fed, and out the door by 8 a.m. every morning. He even took the time to do Addi's hair one morning...

Meanwhile, Mr. C was avoiding some bad smells?

Thank you Tyler for letting me go to Girls Camp! Thank you for your love and support!

Girls Camp Round 2

2010-07-22T18:37:00.000-07:00

So I was released from the Young Women's Presidency back in May, and of course I was bummed that I wasn't going to be going to Girl's Camp. I love Girl's Camp! Who doesn't!? But then the same Sunday that I was released I got called back into the Bishop's office and called to be the Assistant Camp Director. Oh yeah! Camp Lomia here I come! But one problem...I am pregnant. No worries! One Dr.'s note later I was given the thumbs up. I think people thought I was being a good sport by going pregnant, but little do they all know that I wouldn't have missed it for the world!!! Girls Camp is like a miniature EFY. The devotionals, classes, activities, and spirit are AMAZING! I'm so grateful that I was able to go. I'm grateful for the girls and their testimonies and examples of faith and courage. Our theme for camp was "Courage to Stand" from the mutual theme Joshua 1:9. Oh, and did I mention that we had 42 girls from our ward go to camp!?!

Who wouldn't want to go here?

Camp Lomia, Pine, AZ

Clean, Happy, Energized, girls ready to go to camp...

We're here! Me and my 24 week prego belly. :-)

Girls camp was extra special this year because I got to go with Tyler's youngest sister (my sister-in-law) Annie.

Going on our hike

Biggest pancake I've ever seen.

There's nothing like a little spinning-around and zip-lining to get your baby-belly moving.

Poor Bro. Bloomfield was stressing that I was going to go into labor, but I kept telling him not to discriminate pregnant women. :-) Needless to say, he was happy when our activities time ended.

My shirt says, "So hot it hurts".

That's what I try to tell myself every morning when I'm big and pregnant. :-)

One of the craziest and fun part of girls camp...

the 4th year water fight!

don't ask

And this about sums it up...

4th of July in CA

2010-07-07T14:31:00.000-07:00

We got to spend our 4th of July holiday in sunny California with all of my family (Wagners and Nielsens). It was so fun to visit home and see so many familiar places again. I love that my parents still live in the same house that I grew up in. As soon as I walk thru the front door memories start flooding back into my mind. We had a wonderful trip and did so many fun things including:

-Swimming

Look at little man's muscles!

The kids love spending time with their ONLY cousin, Lizzy!

-Relaxing (I love that I can just sit back because the kids only want "Grandma!" or "Grandpa!")

My parents house is a little cooler in the mornings than we are used to. :-)

-Fish hatchery

cousins

Grandpa getting food for fish. Every time Addi got more food in her cup she would pour it out in one turn, and then want more. She didn't understand what it meant to "spread the love".

-Park

-Family picture

We were trying to take a picture that my parents could take to the Eyring reunion in Oct., but the camera kept going out of focus. Above is some of us playing around while the camera was being focused. Below is our best group shot.

We are a happy family!

-Making chocolate chip cookies with Grandpa

Their faces say it all!

-Mac n' cheese anytime!

-The Nut Tree & Fenton's Ice Cream

I love my hubby!

Sisters

Lipstick then kisses!

Fentons!!!

(yep, just like in the movie "Up")

The BEST ice cream in the WORLD!!!

Now you see it...

Now you don't...

-Fun car rides

-Visiting Aunt Lisa's grave

(for some reason those pictures won't download)

-Movies

-Sleepovers

It was a super fun trip and we can't wait to visit again soon!

King Cooper's Castle

2010-06-30T21:13:00.000-07:00

I love the imagination of a 6 year old boy.

A REALLY Bad Owie

2010-06-24T12:57:00.000-07:00

We were getting back from swimming at a friend's house and Addi fell in the car and hit her face on the center console. It wasn't until she looked up at me that I knew it was bad. We were so blessed that there wasn't any damage to her eyeball only the eyelid was cut completely thru. She was the best patient and all the nurses and doctors loved her. Fortunately her recovery was quick and the worst part of it all was that we had to keep her from swimming for 2 weeks. (She did not like that...she is our little fish!)

1st Lost Tooth

2010-06-20T13:14:00.000-07:00

Cooper FINALLY lost his 1st tooth today! I say "finally" because it's been hanging by a thread for the past week and driving ME crazy! Tyler was being more patient, but I wanted to yank it out in the middle of night while Cooper was sleeping. :-) But Cooper went into the bathroom during dinner and came out with one less tooth in his mouth and one tooth in his hand. He said, "That was easy!" :-)

Exciting News!

2010-06-15T14:35:00.001-07:00

So I've been trying to catch up on our blog (mostly for my own future journaling benefit), and I am ALMOST there. But we have some exciting news that we can't wait to share...

We just found out that we're having another GIRL!!!

(coming on Nov. 14th)

(Yes, I'm 18 weeks pregnant. Sorry for all of you that didn't know yet.)

Happy Hopper Field Trip

2010-04-07T21:59:00.000-07:00

Ella's preschool class took a field trip to the Phoenix Zoo. Did I mention we love the zoo? Good thing since I will be going on this same field trip for another 3 years at least. :-) And good thing we have a pass so we don't have to pay extra $.

The morning started off a little chilly and we forgot our coats. But who needs jackets in AZ when you can tuck your arms in your shirt. :-)

I think the monkeys were a little chilly too.

The trees looked so beautiful - a lot of them already had their blossoms.

Cooper loved petting the sting rays.

Friends - Cooper, Kaid, Ella, and Addison

Reasons Why I Love Easter...

2010-04-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

*We are able to reflect on and remember our Saviors life, death, and resurrection. I am so grateful for our Savior's love and sacrifice. It is because of Him and temple covenants that we will be able to conquer death and live together as a family for eternity.

*Watching General Conference

*I am able to remember and honor my older sister, Lisa, who died 9 years ago. She is one of the most incredible people I know. She was always willing to try new things, always committed to the gospel, and always the most kind, gentle, and sincere person. I miss hearing her laugh, hearing her play the piano, and hanging out with her. I am so excited when we will be able to see each other again someday.

(house boating at Lake Shasta - one of our favorite family vacations growing up)

*Dressing the kids up in their Sunday best

(I'm not sure where Addi was when I was taking these pictures, but I don't have a single picture of her in her Easter dress.) :-(

*Ward Easter Egg Hunt

*Calling family on the computer

*Decorating Eggs at G & G Jones'

Grandma Jones found these fun confetti eggs where they are real eggs hallowed out and filled with confetti. So when you crack them you get a wonderful surprise. So we had a little egg toss, but then it turned into an egg war.

*Cooper learning how to ride his bike

*E. Linda Ct. easter egg hunt (put on by our amazing neighbors the Hallidays)

Cooper found the "money egg"

Early Birthday Party

2010-03-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

Call me cheap or call me a bargain queen? Cooper has been asking for the past couple of months if he could have his birthday party at Sun Splash and go miniature golfing. I thought, "Sure, but you're only inviting one friend because it's so expensive." Then one day I was talking to my neighbor and she told me that Sun Splash was running a limited time special for birthday parties. After more research and phone calls I found out the special was ending March 30th. So we sat Cooper down, explained to him that if we have his party 2 months early he could invite 8 friends instead of 1. :-) Needless to say he accepted the offer and we had his "friends" birthday party in April. The weather was perfect. All his friends were in town to attend. I think we might have to make this a regular thing - especially since his birthday is normally Memorial weekend.

First the kids got to play unlimited free arcades for 30 min....

Then pizza, goodie bags, cupcakes, and opening presents...

and miniature golf...

Backyard Fun

2010-03-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

These are just some random pictures that Tyler took of the kids playing in our backyard. I just love that they love their swing set. And I love that they love to be outside together. We are absolutely LOVING the weather and LOVING our green grass! Thanks dad for working so hard so we can have a beautiful backyard!

Addison's Birthday Celebration!

2010-03-22T13:43:00.000-07:00

The Jones' are always so wonderful about helping us celebrate birthdays. We usually go over for dinner on Sundays and then have a little party afterwards. Addison was very excited to open presents and be "bonked on the head" (Jones tradition). :-) I can't believe how big she is getting! And since Uncle Wes' birthday is on the 23rd - they celebrated together!

"Heavy, heavy, hangover Addi's poor head. What do you wish this present with a 'bonk' on the head?"

Anyone that knows Addison knows that she LOVES cookies!

She is our little cookie monster.

So instead of making her a cake for her birthday, I made her 3 different types of cookies:

Chocolate Chip, Snickerdoodle, and Scotchies

One handsome boy...

Sprig Break

2010-03-21T15:36:00.000-07:00

This week was Spring Break and even though we didn't leave the state of Arizona, we still had PLENTY of fun!!! Here is a breakdown of the week:

MONDAY

Lucky for us our neighbors didn't go anywhere for Spring Break either, so our kids played together practically the whole week. They invited Cooper and Ella to come over to their house and swim. Yep, it's March! And yep, it's in the 80's! The pool was too cold for my comfort, but the kids had a blast and would jump in, jump out, warm up in the sun, and repeat the pattern.

Then the kids took a break from the pool and came and played on the swings in the backyard and ran around our caterpillar sprayer...

TUESDAY

We woke up with the sun and found out it was going to be in the 80's again. What better thing to do then call up the neighbors, jump in our swimsuits and bust out the slip n slide?

I couldn't believe how much Addi loved it!

While the kids were taking a popsicle break, Tyler called from work and said he got tickets to the Phoenix Suns game for that night and if I could get a babysitter? I said, "Of course!" Then he told me the seats where 1st row, middle court!!! I said, "Absolutely!!!" So thanks to one of the Beehives in our ward, we were able to go to the game and have BLAST!!! (and free minus babysitter date night)

It was the Gorilla's birthday so his friends (other mascots) came to celebrate with him. Since we were on the front row every time one walked past us I would grab them and ask them to take a picture with us. :-) It was awesome!

Barbosa - I think this was his 1st game back since his injury.

It was awesome to see him play!

Yep, the famous Steve Nash. He gave a kid next to us a high five. He's a good guy, and great basketball player!

Hill

During a time out the mascots were running around throwing t-shirts out to the crowd. I was begging the gorilla for a t-shirt and instead of throwing me one he grabbed me out of the crowd and told me to throw one. If I had been thinking I would have just thrown it to Tyler, but I was too excited to be at center court so I tossed it up as high as I could. :-)

And in the end...instead of a t-shirt the gorilla handed me a random backpack. (I ended up giving it back to one of the employees it belonged to.)

Good night!

WEDNESDAY

Today was Addison's 2nd Birthday!!! So with the beautiful weather and Tyler able to take a 1/2 day off of work we opened presents in the morning and then loaded up the minivan and went to the Phoenix Zoo!

This girl is so much fun and all smiles! She was our little navigator with her map.

We checked out the new Komodo dragon.

We have had a zoo pass for the past 4 years and I think this was the first time that we had ever seen the rhinos standing up. Kodak moment!

Tyler running 11 mph

Snow cones!

FRIDAY

We were hoping to go camping sometime during Spring Break, but it didn't seem to get planned. The kids were bummed so to try and make up for it we did the next best thing...camping in our backyard!

All in all it was a fun week! Happy Spring Break 2010!

My Son

2010-03-13T15:29:00.000-08:00

This sweet boy couldn't get more wonderful. He is always there to help me, help his sisters, help his friends. He is the first one to sacrifice his cookie, sucker, or toy to make one of his sisters happy. He has his moments, but don't we all? He takes after his Dad - kind, patient, sincere, detailed, creative, smart, loving, handsome... I am so lucky to call him, "My son". I would claim this cute smile and these dimples any day.

Red Salsa, Green Salsa, I love Salsa!

2010-03-13T15:19:00.000-08:00

So deep down sometimes I wonder if I was supposed to be born in Mexico? I think that about my family and my in-laws too. :-) No I cannot speak Spanish (ask my in-laws) :-), but I don't think there is anyone who appreciates and enjoys Mexican food more than we do. Street tacos, salsa (Tyler says this isn't really authentic mexican food), tortillas, rice, beans, limes, chiles, etc., etc., etc. Well, just when I thought I might be wrong I come upon this...

dip and bite...quesadilla and homemade salsa

And there you have it...We are 1/1,000,000,000 Mexican :-)

(now I just need to figure out how to roll my tongue when I say my "r's")

Fun (Quick) Trip to Cali

2010-03-06T13:31:00.000-08:00

Tyler and I had the opportunity to make a quick weekend trip to California for my childhood friend, Lanae's wedding. Since my parents were in China, Julia and Matthew let us stay with them and we had SO MUCH FUN!!!

(Lizzy lost both of her front teeth)

We flew in Friday night and caught the tail end of their ward party. Saturday we went to the sealing in the Sacramento Temple, and back to Julia and Matthew's for lunch. Then while the boys and Lizzy went on a nature walk and tested out new functions on their cameras, Julia and I went to Ross Dress for Less. They were having their big dress sale, and I was crossing my fingers to find some winners.

(My rad brother-in-law)

(Tyler took this picture for me...this is the lake I rowed on in High School)

(Look at those exotic eyes and gorgeous hair...she is so beautiful)

(CA state flower...the hills were rolling in green and wildflowers. It was such a treat to see.)

Well, the shopping was a success, but hopefully I can fit in my new dresses after eating some (okay a lot) of the yummy desserts at Lanae's reception.

(aka yummy desserts)

The sealing was beautiful, the reception was beautiful, and the bride was beautiful. It was so neat to see Lanae glowing with happiness. You could just tell by her face that she was content and in love. I am so grateful that I finally made it to one of my friends weddings! And I'm so grateful Lanae found someone that will love, respect, and cherish her for eternity. She deserves it!

(I love my sister)

(I love this man)

Old McDonald had a farm...

2010-02-23T13:11:00.000-08:00

E - I - E - I - O

And on his farm he had a...

COW

E - I - E - I - O

And on his farm he had a

ROOSTER

E - I - E - I - O

And on his farm he had a

HORSE

E - I - E - I - O

And on his farm he had a

GOAT

E - I - E - I - O

{We went to a dairy farm for Ella's preschool field trip. Believe it or not it was only 3 miles away from our house. So I guess you could call us country folk. :-) I learned that if I ever buy a cow I want a brown cow (jersey cow) because they make the thick milk that you use to make ice cream. Oh yay!}

More Snow Pictures

2010-02-21T12:49:00.000-08:00

Our friends Tim and Monica that went to the snow with took some awesome pictures. We had so much fun sledding with the kids!

Blizzard & Sledding

2010-02-19T12:55:00.000-08:00

We went up to the snow this past weekend with our friends the Blood Family. We had so much fun on our ward's youth snow trip that we decided to go back to the same spot. We knew there was a 70% chance of rain/snow. But we never imagined this...

Fortunately, the weather cleared up just enough for us to clothe up, and catch some hills. We were so grateful for the Maxfield family for lending us all the kid's snow gear. It was because of them that the kids didn't freeze to death. :-) I didn't how the kids would react to all the snow falling on them, but they had a blast and didn't want to leave.

Ella tasting the fresh-fallen snow

Addi reminded us of the kid from "Christmas Story".

She was our little marshmallow.

Some scouts were leaving right as we were driving up. They had built this snow cave the day before and Cooper thought it was the neatest thing.

By the time we left the snow was really coming down...

...but 2 thumbs up for a great trip to the mountains!

----------------

I'm so bummed we don't have any pictures of the kids tubing down the hills, but the snow was coming down too hard to have the camera out. But believe me, it was the cutest thing seeing the kids stretched like an "X" across the tubes holding for their life. :-) And I am happy to say there were no bruises or crazy crashes this time. :-)

Honoring our President's

2010-02-16T13:05:00.000-08:00

Cooper had his first music/performance program at school. The programed honored our 1st presidents of the United States. He did an excellent job remembering his part and all of the songs. It's so fun to see him learning and growing.

Cooper's #1 Fan

Do you see the camera in her hand? She wanted to take pictures of Cooper too. :-)

February Park Day

2010-02-16T12:57:00.000-08:00

Only in Arizona is it warm enough to go to the park in middle of February. Right now it is raining in Cali, snowing in Utah, but sunny in Arizona! And we are going to take advantage of it! We are so blessed to live in such a family oriented community with lots of grass areas and parks to play at. The kids love going to park, and I love taking them. It felt so good to finally get out of the house!

Hugs - Kisses - Love

2010-02-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day. It was kind of special having Valentine's Day on Sunday and being together as a family all day. Of course the kids still had their parties at school a couple of days before which only means one thing...more candy! I think that's why I'm so excited for summer to come. No holidays that include candy. :-) My biggest weakness this month has been sugar cookies. For real? Why do they have to taste soooo yummy? And why do I need to eat 20 before I finally start feeling sick to my stomach. :-(

We got our first Valentine on Friday

I always forget how fun bubbles are...

Buster - our "regal" dog.

When I went outside Sunday morning to get our newspaper this is what I found first...

I love my stud!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

So if you're wondering where are the pictures of the sugar cookies? Sorry, I wasn't able to take a picture of them before I ate them all.

:-)

1st Field Trip

2010-02-13T14:46:00.000-08:00

Cooper had his 1st Kindergarten field trip on Friday, and I was able to go as a parent-helper. We went to 1 of only 2 teddy bear factories left in the U.S. - Stuffington Bear Factory in Phoenix. (I'm guessing all the other teddy bears are made in China?) It was a fun day full of a lot of firsts.

1st time riding a yellow school bus:

And it was a little stinky.

1st time in a real Bear Factory:

1st time meeting Jack Black's cousin:

This was our tour guide and he was hilarious!

1st field trip with mom:

1st (and only) kindergarten teacher:

Mrs. Eversole & Cooper

1st time packing a lunch for school: (sorry no pictures of that)

1st time making a real teddy bear from start to finish:

Gymnastics

2010-02-12T14:16:00.000-08:00

Cooper and Ella have been taking gymnastics classes and they are doing so well. It has been so wonderful to see Cooper's confidence growing. Ella will do anything, but Cooper is more cautious. This has really showed him that he can do anything if he tries hard enough. He's also overcoming his fear of heights.

This is my gym buddy. She is so patient while Cooper and Ella take do their lessons.

Cooper working on his split jump

Ella landing her jump

Cooper on the rings

Seeing the kids do their gymnastics has made me want to see if I can do some of the basics. Like a head stand...

Not too bad for an old lady

A little Craziness

2010-02-08T13:57:00.000-08:00

Does your bath time normally resemble something like this...

...ours does!

Pretty in Pink

2010-02-08T13:52:00.000-08:00

F-A-M-I-L-Y

2010-02-07T13:39:00.000-08:00

papa bear

mama bear

boy bear

girl bear

baby bear

Funny Faces

2010-02-06T13:35:00.000-08:00

I don't know why but the kids and I love to squish eachother's faces. We find a lot of humor and fun doing it.

Play Date w/ Grandma-Great!

2010-02-03T13:14:00.000-08:00

My parents came into town for a visit and while they were here my Grandma Layton was visiting also. So... we set up a play date and let the fun begin! :-) My grandma is almost 95 years old and she walks around like she's 20. She also just recovered from a broken hip, but you wouldn't even know it! The thing that I loved was that she always insisted on having her purse with her. My mom and I would offer to carry it for her or just leave it behind at the house, but she said, "No thank you. All I own is in my purse." :-) I know I would have said the same thing. Even at 27 I always have my purse with me. So in another 68 years I doubt I will feel any different. It was so fun to visit and "play" with Grandma. She is always so happy and cheerful, enjoying every minute of life. It is so special and I'm so grateful that my kids can know their Great-grandparents. So fun!

The kids were excited to go in the car with Grandma-Great! Can you tell? We went to the mall so the kids could play outside.

Ella was trying to help Grandma-great walk, but it ended up being the other way around...

We took the kids to "Build a Bear" for their Valentine's gift.

3 generations

Trundle Fun

2010-02-02T13:06:00.000-08:00

Addi is growing up before our eyes! I can't believe in a month and a bit she will be 2 yrs. old! That only means two things: 1) Tyler and I are getting old! 2) She is getting too big for a crib. Because all of our kids are close in age I'm not used to having a 2 year old in a crib and I rather her realize that she is getting to be a big girl and so we are going to treat her as one. :-) So far she has no complaints. Since we can't possibly fit another twin bed in the rooms and I am still going to put her in the crib while she naps, we decided to get a trundle bed to go under the bunk beds. It's perfectly perfect! And Addi already knows it is her bed. :-) I wish I could freeze time right now. They are just growing up way too fast!

Ella & Addi playing dress-up and jumping on the trundle bed.

Owie

2010-01-31T12:53:00.000-08:00

Addi came running up to me while I was sitting at the computer, and handed me a band-aid and pointed to her forehead. I placed a band-aid on her head and THEN she touched her head and said, "Owie". I think she thought the band-aid gives you an owie. :-)

For not having any visible eyebrows she can make a pretty concerned face. :-)

Tyler Conquering the sled jump...

2010-01-22T13:00:00.000-08:00

Attempt #1

Attempt #2

Attempt #3

Attempt #4

Not so young

2010-01-22T12:40:00.001-08:00

Tyler and I helped drive a bunch of youth from our ward for their annual YM/YW snow trip. The place we went is right by Tyler's Uncle Joe's cabin, and it was absolutely perfect! The weather was perfect, the snow was perfect, and the kids were perfect! It just amazes me what strong spirits and amazing kids we have in our ward and surrounding area. It was a fun time being with them, and we are so grateful for Carolyn for watching our kids so we could go.

Tyler on his perch

Right about now I was asking myself what the heck I was thinking getting on this tube?

Tyler and I have a tendency to tap back into our teen years pretending that we can do what we used to be able to do. This snow trip was no exception. :-) But I'm happy to say that we made it thru the day without any breaks, cuts, or major bruises (except the little one on my bum).

Thumbs up!

Two girls in our ward were hard core, and built this little jump for the sleds. So we were riding the sleds like snow boards and getting some pretty nice air at the end.

It was fun to be there with Annie! I have the neat opportunity of being her Beehive Leader right now in our ward. And she was such a good sport, especially since she was developing a double-ear infection.

1-2-3 Birthday Parties!

2010-01-19T14:02:00.000-08:00

Ella is our little princess and she knows it! She has spent the past 3 weeks celebrating her birthday, even though her real birthday is Jan. 18th. But she was so cute and so excited to be turning 4! She said, "Mom, now I'm almost old enough to get married and be a mom like you!" I love it! She will make an amazing mom someday, and she will definitely keep her husband on his toes. :-) Here's a breakdown of the parties...

Party #1

Since my family was in town, my parents thought it would be fun to celebrate Ella's birthday a little early, so they could be here for the celebration. It was a great idea, and Ella was so excited! She picked out the cake, put on her princess dress, and was ready to party! Thanks Mom, Dad, Julia, Matthew, & Lizzy for making her birthday so special!

Addi is waiting anxiously for cake. :-)

This girl is our little eater! She will eat anything, and she eats all day long!

Grandpa is reading Ella her princess card. And she has the Snow White smile and sigh down pat. She'll be working for Disneyland some day if she doesn't become a nurse. :-)

Lizzy

Ella posing in one of her new birthday presents.

A wedding dress! She said, "Just wait till Aunt Jaimie sees my married dress."

Party #2

Tyler's parents are always so good about having us over for dinner on Sundays. And then when it is someone's birthday, we'll all celebrate after dinner. It's always fun and always special.

Grandpa starting off the festivities.

"Heavy, heavy hangover Ella's poor head -

What do you wish this present with a bump on your head?"

Jones birthday tradition.

Uncle Wes & Ella

Wes turns in his mission papers soon, and we can't believe that Ella will be 6 the next time he sees her!

Nothing better than a new movie - Swan Princess

Annie bopping Ella

4 years old!!!

Party #3

In our family you get to have a friend party every-other-year, and then a family party every-other-year. This is to cut back on stress, money, and mostly stress. :-) So this year was Ella's "family party" year. When Tyler and I asked her a week before her birthday what she wanted to do, this is what she came up with:

make pizzas

yellow decorations

play freeze dance

ice cream cake

And that is exactly what we did.

She started the day off by picking out her own clothes. :-)

Making pizzas...

"Ella thank you for picking to make pizzas!"

Opening presents...

So now we've got musician added to the list...

nurse

disney princess

musician (singer/songwriter)

If you ever watch home videos from my childhood, always at a birthday party 1 out of the 3 sisters is crying or jealous of what the other sister is getting. I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree? Addi just kept saying, "Mine? Mine? Mine? Please?"

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELLA!!!

Family Fun

2010-01-02T13:19:00.000-08:00

I love when family visits! Dad, Mom, Matthew, Julia, and Lizzy came into town to celebrate the New Year, but every day was a party, and it was so sad when they left. This week was filled with fun... riding bikes, enjoying the beautiful weather, playing at the park, picnics, exercising w/ Julia (so much fun!!!), quad riding, eating, movies, the Phoenix Science Center, talking, New Year's Eve kiss...

{Quad Riding}

{Eating}

{Phoenix Science Center}

We all had to try this chair where you are lifting yourself up by pulling the roop (or pulling your own weight).

Mom pulling her and Addi - she's an animal!

Ella laying on a bed of nails - yes, those are real nails!

Ella touching a lamb's eyeball - she's going to be a nurse someday!

Cousins - Lizzy, Cooper, & Ella

{Playing Outside}

{New Year's Eve Kiss}

I'm so sad that I didn't get any pictures from our New Year's Eve party. We went to my Aunt Bev's house and she is the queen of throwing good parties! My whole family was there, the Huntzinger's, the Laytons, and all of my cousins. It was a blast! I think that was the first time that Tyler and I had actually stayed up until midnight (AZ time - not East Coast time), so what better way to ring in the New Year than with a kiss?...

I Love Christmas!!!

2009-12-26T14:20:00.000-08:00

We wanted to get the kids something big for Christmas vs. a bunch of little things that take up room we don't have. :-) So Tyler approved the idea of getting a swing-set for the kids! I say "approved" because he works so hard to make our front and back yard look nice, and we both knew that getting a swing-set could ruin the grass a little. But we decided that grass can always grow back. :-) I'm so happy that the kids can go in the backyard whenever they want and swing and play, while I can be in the house folding laundry or making dinner.

Thank you so much Wes & Cody for staying up late on Christmas Eve to help build it!!! We couldn't have done it without you!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-25T13:30:00.000-08:00

Christmas Morning:

Christmas Dinner @ Great-Grandma Jones':

Me & Tyler's cousin Ashley

We were joking how we never get pictures taken of ourselves because we're always the ones taking them.

Grandma Jones - she was so good to have so many people at her house. I'm so grateful for my grandparents and Tyler's grandparents and their diligence in bringing the family together no matter how much work that entails or how many people it involves. Family is their first priority, and I am so grateful for that.

Grandma Jones has this blue shed in her backyard that I absolutely love! It makes the perfect backdrop and we are definitely taking our next family pictures here!

More Christmas Fun!

2009-12-24T13:36:00.000-08:00

What would Christmas be like without decorating sugar cookies with Grandma Jones, picking yummy navel oranges at Great-Grandpa Chambers', being surrounded by family, making molasses popcorn balls, and acting out the Nativity? I honestly can't imagine Christmas without all of these things. But I do wish we also lived closer to my family so we could make cookies with my dad & sing Christmas songs while my mom plays the piano.

Decorating Cookies:

Picking Oranges:

Family & Making Popcorn Balls:

The Nativity:

Christmas Eve gifts:

Thank you Grandma & Grandpa Jones for the new p.j.'s!

Cooper's shirt says, "What Santa doesn't bring me, Grandma will!"

So true!

Merry Christmas Eve!

We Wish You a Merry Christmas!

2009-12-22T13:25:00.000-08:00

A Caroling we go...

2009-12-22T13:14:00.000-08:00

We always look forward to our annual caroling trip with Great-Grandma Jones. Everyone gathers goodies together to make plates for her neighbors and friends, and we walk/drive around the neighborhood singing carols and delivering the treats. Another great opportunity to bring the family together and spread Christmas cheer. It was fun to bundle up (which doesn't happen too often in AZ) and the kids had a lot of fun!

Cooper was so excited to hang out with his second cousin Glen Allen.

They were pretending to be dead on the doormat.

The Jones Fam

It was fun having Sean & Jaimie in town for the holidays.

I wonder what she's wishing for?

Just Plain Worn out

2009-12-21T12:59:00.000-08:00

It was Sunday evening and we had just returned home from having dinner with the Jones' Family. I was on the computer for a minute and I turn around to find Tyler like this...

Bless his heart. He was so exhausted. Sundays have been long with tithing settlements, but he has not complained one bit, and I know that we are being blessed for his service and sacrifice. A normal Sunday for Tyler is from 5 a.m. (Bishopric Meeting) until 4 p.m. (after the normal church block and other meetings) I'm so grateful for his example and obedience.

Happy Birthday to Me!!!

2009-12-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday dear Kristen! Happy 27th Birthday to you!

Since Tyler won't post for my birthday. I guess I will toot my own horn and post for my own birthday. (Hey, somebody's got to document it, right!?)

I had a WONDERFUL, FABULOUS, FUN, FANTASTIC, EXCELLENT, EXEBERATING, COOL, BESTEST birthday ever! I got up in the morning and found that Tyler and the kids had put up some decorations...

My biggest request was to go out to breakfast. (I love breakfast "meals"!) So we went to Liberty Market - where you get a $10 credit on your birthday. Then we hopped over to Joe's BBQ and I got some free lunch To-go - you get a $10 credit there too! Then we came home and put Addi down for her nap. We skyp'd my parents and they watched me open my presents. (I still think it is so cool that we can do that...thank you technology!) Then we had received some coupons in the mail for some free bowling games if you paid for the shoe rental, so of course we went bowling...

Look at that form! Hot!

Addi insisted in having her fingers in the holes while we carried it over to the lane.

Afterwards, the family headed over to Cooper and Ella's gymnastics "preview" where they got to show us everything they have learned so far. I have been sitting and watching them in all of their classes, but with Dad being there I was shocked at everything they were doing! (I'm glad they felt like needed to "show-off" for Dad. It was special.) Cooper climbed up half of the rope by himself (which reaches all the way to the ceiling). Ella was doing cart-wheels out of no where. It was really fun to watch them.

And once the clock struck 5 p.m., my prince charming picked me up in his shiny, white Chevy, and took me dinner and a movie. The only word that describe my day is perfect. Simply wonderful. Simply delightful. Simply perfect. Thank you honey! You are the BEST! I LOVE YOU!

Riparian Walk

2009-12-11T15:12:00.000-08:00

Every year we have full intentions to go see the luminaries at the Riparian Preserve by our house. But every year we seem to lose track of the day and totally miss it! Not this year! We had it posted all over the house and we met up with our friends Tim and Monica and their kids. It was so beautiful. I lost count of how many candles were lit. It was amazing and so peaceful-looking. I'm so grateful to live in a community that offers so many wonderful venues. It was a great night with the family.

Nope, the one on the right is taken,

but the one on the left will be available for dating in 16 years (after his mission).

Ready for the Cold

2009-12-10T14:59:00.000-08:00

I was at the mall letting the kids see Santa...which by the way, I was pleasantly surprised to hear Santa ask the kids whose birthday we celebrate on Christmas? Cooper answered, "Jesus!" And Santa told him he was right! While we were walking away Cooper asked, "Does Santa believe in Jesus?" and I said, "Yes!" Thank you Santa for being a good example for my kids!...

At this point you might be wondering why I am in this picture? Addison was so excited to see Santa, but of course (just like Cooper and Ella when they were this age) as soon as it was our turn, she wanted nothing to do with him. The only way she would go near him was if I was holding her. So for the 3rd time I got my picture taken with Santa too! :-)

So back to my story...we were at the mall and we walked past Gap and noticed they were having a big sale on all of their sweaters. Tyler was due to get off work soon so I called him and told him to meet us at the mall so he could get some new sweaters. While we were looking around in Gap, Cooper started doing a little shopping of his own and came across this hat and shoes. He needed a hat to wear outside at school, and he needed a new pair of shoes, and they were both on sale so how do you beat that? And as an extra bonus...they matched! :-)

Picture with Santa - check

Winter clothes - check

New Christmas P.J.'s

2009-12-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

There's something about Christmas and the holidays that motivates you to go out and buy warm, comfy, new p.j.'s? Well, my kids are lucky that they have WONDERFUL grandparents and great-grandparents that love them and are always thinking of them when they're walking in the p.j. isle at the store. :-) These p.j.'s are compliments of Great-Grandma Wagner from CA. Thank you Grandma! We miss you and love you!

Ella sipping on her hot chocolate. I love this time of year!