Matt Danielle Jonathan Katelyn Braden Addisyn

Recap to now

2011-09-29T10:29:00.000-07:00

So instead of going back in time and talking about all the fun stuff I didn't post the last few months I am just going to start fresh. First here is a list of some of the fun activities we have done since May. We have had Birthdays (Jonathan, Braden and Danielle) Baptism (Jonathan), Blueberry picking, Storm games, water parks, Bowling, Swim lessons, pool days, Mulligan's, Dance Recital, Mormon Battalion museum, Old Town San Diego, Utah Trip (I gutted my first fish), Back yard camp out, Jax came home, School started (Jonathan 3rd, Katelyn 2nd, Braden kinder) A cute New Nephew ( I will post pictures of him) Disneyland. And lots of cute pictures to go with them but that would be a way long post. Now to present day...lol...

Jonathan turned 8 in May so that means he was able to start the scout program through church. He was super excited and so was his mom. Matt just had gotten called to be in the scouts so he gets to take him to the meetings. Nice for mom. In the last few months Jonathan has been working hard to earn beads, patches and belt buckles. I am so proud of him and all he has accomplished. He received advanced from Bobcat to wolf , he got 2 yellow beads, a gold arrow and a belt loop for swimming, He was called up to get the collections belt loop but it was a mistake and he had to give it back. He handled it very well and the crowed thought he should just get it anyways...lol...So here are some pictures from last nights pack meeting.

Playing a minute to win it game

Graduating from Bobcat to Wolf.

His belt loop for swimming

He participated in presenting the colors. He did such a good job.

He is the one with the American flag.

I am going to try and keep up. But before I end my post I am going to leave you with a picture of one of the cutest babies around. I love this little guy and am so happy he is finally here. Here is Denise and Ryan's little guy Tyler Jon Lang.

Fruits of our labor

2011-05-18T08:05:00.000-07:00

So the kids and I are so excited that our garden is producing veggies. Katelyn got to pick one of her favorite veggies snap peas. We got 5 off of our tiny vine. But there are some other veggies that are little babied that will soon be picked. The plants aren't the greenest sometimes I think they are dying. If anyone has gardening advice send it my way.

Zucchini blooming and ready to start growing can't wait

Tiny head of lettuce. Its a little bit bigger than a golf ball in the middle.

Chives growing really well

We have 3 little tomato's growing this one was the biggest about the size of a shooter marble.

Three bell peppers growing.

Our snap peas. I need to get a better trellis for the vines to grow up. It is to small

So excited to have picked her first snap peas

Eating her veggies.

April Fun

2011-05-09T10:21:00.001-07:00

I know I haven't posted Easter yet but I forgot my camera so all my Easter pictures are on my mom's camera and my sister-in-laws. Once I get them I will post pictures.

When it finally started getting hot during the kids Easter break we got out the pool and the slip-n-slide and played in the sun. The kids had so much fun I think they were outside everyday during their break. We even went to the pool a few days. It was so much fun watching Addi play with her brothers and sister. She is getting so big. She even tried to slip-n-slide herself.

Braden

Jonathan

Katelyn

Addi and her attempt

Trampoline fun

Jonathan our fearless jumper/flipper

Pool fun

The water was cold so when ever she got splashed she would scream.

Fun at the Dwelley Home

2011-04-15T20:59:00.000-07:00

The end of march Matt and I celebrated out 9th Anniversary. We got a sitter and went to dinner at a yummy sushi restaurant by our house. I can't believe 9 years have gone by. It really feels like we just got married. I have 4 fun kids and a husband that does so much for our family. I am a lucky girl. If not for Courtney getting me to go back to young single adults Matt and I may not have ever met. Thanks court your the best :)

2 weeks ago it was super hot then it got cold and on one of those days as we were sitting in the car waiting for Jonathan to get out of school it started hailing like crazy. Katelyn and Braden got out of the car and had a blast playing in the hail. I could not believe how much came down and how big they were. If Jonathan would have gotten out of school 5 min sooner he could have joined in the fun. I don't know if I have ever said it but I love where we live.

Braden protecting himself from the huge hail

Katelyn trying to catch some hail in her mouth.

All the hail that got on our car. It looked like it had just snowed.

Jonathan got to participate in the pine wood derby this year. He was a month behind but they let him join in the fun. He was so excited. We got him all his scout stuff and he was set to race his car. He was so proud of it. He designed it Dad cut it out and then he sanded and painted it. Matt helped put on the weights and wheels. Then off to the race. Jonathan thought for sure he had the #1 car. Unfortunately he had one of the slowest cars. He beat the first guy he raced (thank goodness) and that was it. He lost the rest. But I did get some good pictures of his one win.

The boys eating a baked potato like it was an apple.

Jonathan's is the blue car. The green one was the only car Jonathan beat.

His victory arms.

Getting his ribbon. He won Hottest car (because of the flames on it)

Finally I had my sewing class this week and we made shoes. I love them. I think I did pretty well for my first pair. I can't wait to make more. I think they are the cutest. Good thing Addi is so tiny and these type if shoes still work for her. When she out grows this style if you have a baby girl on the way you may just get some as a shower gift :)

Tea Party

2011-03-06T19:32:00.000-08:00

Katelyn turned 6 on Jan 8th. I know I can't believe my girl is 6 already. Since her birthday is so close to Christmas we decided to postpone her party until Feb. Just so her gifts were spread out a bit. We decided to do a tea party. My Aunt Wendy went thrift store hunting and got 10 different tea cups and saucers. Love them all. I 2 silver tea pots and a try at a garage sale for $10 so fun. Katelyn and I got stuff to make hats for each of the girls then some sunglasses and jewelry for each to wear. they each got their make up and nails done. So fun. I didn't get any pictures of that cause I was the one putting on all the make up and nail polish :) The girls all had so much fun. They danced played games we just girls. Katelyn has a group of really good girls in our ward that are her age to play with and she loves them all. After the tea party we both Matt and I had our families over for a BBQ to celebrate Katelyn, Matt, Dave and Scott's birthdays Yes they all have birthdays really close to one another. It was fun getting the family together. I am so grateful to have most of our family close by (Kevin and Missa look what you are missing you need to come home) So enjoy the pictures not very many but enough to see all the fun we had.

Digital scrapbook personalized with Smilebox

Preschool Valentine Party

2011-02-09T18:55:00.000-08:00

We had a Valentine party today with a bunch of kids in our ward. They played games, decorated cookies and passed out their valentine's. We have a great ward no matter what we are doing when we get together there is always fun to be had. one of the mom's who takes some really good pictures put this together. i stole it from facebook to put it on my blog since i was a slacker and didn't take any. Thanks to everyone that came and made it so much fun for the kids.

Giveaway

2011-02-07T09:21:00.000-08:00

So my sister-in-law Liz made this cute necklaces for a YW activity a while back. I have been wanting to make one for myself and I finally did. I bought a shirt for $1 dollar at the dollar tree and made 3 necklaces and 2 bracelets. I only need one so I have two more. If you want one post a comment and I will pick 2 random winners on Tuesday evening and post the winners. Good luck :)

Weekend Warriors

2011-01-24T10:25:00.000-08:00

Pat and my mom came to stay with us this weekend so we decided with a little extra cash we would put up a retaining wall in the front of the house by the back gate. It really needed to be done. We needed Pat there with his young mussels to to the hard work :) Matt and I are to old to be doing that kind of work or at least that is how it feels and my mom is hitting ## won't say but she is a grandma :) So you put an age in there. It took us two days but it is awesome. We still need to put the caps on the tops. Matt picks those up on Tuesday. I will post final pictures when they are on. Matt and I are so happy with the turn out. Thanks Mom and Pat couldn't have done it without your help.

Is it really 2011

2011-01-12T20:38:00.000-08:00

This is going to be a long post since I have slacked on my blogging. This is going to cover an entire month of fun.

We started the month off by decorating the house. Addisyn even had fun helping. A few years back I bought plastic ornaments for the tree. Such a good idea with my crazy bunch. We would break at least 3 ornaments a year. Now we don't break any.

Addi having fun with the ornaments.

Then we had our ward Christmas party. Which I must say was a blast. They got a double Decker bus and we drove around Lake Elsinore singing carols until we got to our stake Pres. house to sing to him.

I Love this picture and the back round. The top of the bus was cold but so worth it because of the view.

Katelyn was in her first dance recital. She had a blast. She got to preform 3 different times and enjoyed each one. We love the dance studio she is at. If you live near us and are looking for a studio JDI is the best.

Katelyn also had her kindergarten performance on the last day of school. She got to wear her PJ's. She thought that was the greatest thing ever.

Braden had a preschool Christmas party. They did a craft, decorated and ate cookies then did a small gift exchange. He was so excited that he finally got to do something fun without Katelyn and Jonathan.

The whole group

When Christmas break finally arrived we met up with some friends at hullabulo's. The kids had a blast together. Between the tree of us we have10 kids and one more on the way. I am so excited Valerie is FINALLY having a girl and that Lisett and her family moved back to California. I forgot how much fun we all have together.

We got Disneyland passes for Christmas (early) and went when Kevin and Missa were down the day before Christmas eve. It was fun to be with all my side of the family we don't all get together at the same time very much with Kevin and Missa living in Utah.

My two cute girls

Christmas Eve finally arrived. We spent that evening with the Dwelley's. The cousins always have fun when they get together. It was loud and crazy but we wouldn't have it any other way. they had their traditional wrapping paper war which Grandma Dwelley (84) always joins in on. We even got the girls matching shirts so they got a cute picture together.

My cute little bunch

The Girls all together

In their Christmas PJ's

Christmas Day we had Everyone over at our house Lots of pictures opening presents in the morning but none from afternoon on. I was to busy getting food made. I hope someone else took pictures. We had a great month and can not believe 2010 is already over. I had to end with a picture of the two cuties babies Addi and Indee. So cute those two. Matt's pretty cute to. Promise to blog more next month.

Thanksgiving break

2010-12-02T10:48:00.000-08:00

The kids had 7 days off of school for thanksgiving so my mom and I decided to take a trip to visit Kevin's family in Provo. We left Ryan and Denise's a bit after there great Thanksgiving dinner. We got into Provo at 4:30am. We didn't get much sleep that morning but it was ok we got to see Indee. She is to cute and reminds me a lot of Addisyn. Their cries are even alike. The entire trip we kept getting them confused. So here are a few pictures of our trip. A few of the activities I didn't bring my camera and I should have. Enjoy the pictures I know we enjoyed taking them.

Customize your own free photo slideshow

October fun

2010-10-28T09:12:00.001-07:00

We took the kids to Rylie farms the beginning of this month. We picked out our pumpkins, picked some apples and had a great BBQ lunch. The kids loved it and we got some really cute pictures. Then a few weeks later we went to a pumpkin patch with my dad, Karen and my little sister and brother. My kids always love when we get to see Kirsten and Torben. The kids went on the pony's, slides, jumpers. We also went and did a corn maze that they had. It was a big maze that took us forever to get through. The kids had a blast trying to get us to the end.

This picture slideshow customized with Smilebox

Another fun thing we did this last week was decorate our play room. I finished the curtains and the kids did a painting project that I think turned out well and they love. I got 3 canvases and had the kids paint their own pictures. They turned out really neat. I am so glad we did it.

Katelyn's picture

Joanthan's picture

Braden's picture

The BIG 30 and a little bit like Christmas

2010-10-07T17:55:00.000-07:00

I know it has been so long since a post. Don't you ever feel like not much is going on that anyone really cares about???? We I feel like our life has been that. But here are a few exciting things that have been going on. First I turned 30 on September 17th. I can not believe it. Time flies. My husband with the help of Denise, Ryan and Liz threw me a surprise party. It was a tone of fun. My family is great. Matt did really well at keeping the secret I had no idea. I though we were going to a play with Ryan and Denise. Tiffany was our official photographer and did a great job. Thanks Tiff. I can't figure out how to attach the pictures. but when I do I will try and remember to post them.

The next fun thing that just happened was new flooring in the kitchen. When we moved into our house we had asked for a darker flooring in the kitchen and got this

It was white and I hated it. It showed every piece of dirt. I had to sweep and mop everyday if I wanted it to look good and even then it didn't look good. I know it is just a linoleum replacement that we got but it was FREE until we can come up with the money to put in what we really want.

The blue tape is where they didn't want us to walk for a day they come off tonight :)

Grass for sale

2010-08-23T13:20:00.001-07:00

The kids decided to dig up some grass (on the side of the house) and have a grass sale. My little money makers. They made signs and posted them on our gate. They even got their radio and put music on so there customers could hear it :) I love their imaginations. Katelyn came home from school today and ran right to the backyard to water their grass. To bad no one is going to buy it :(

Here is the sign

It says; $5.oo Jonathan and Katelyn's grass sale

Here are my little money makers.

First day of School

2010-08-16T21:06:00.000-07:00

Jonathan and Katelyn's first day of school

I loved watching them walk to school together. He even held her hand when we crossed the cross walk but I didn't get a picture of that.

Jonathan started 2nd grade today. He was so excited. He started in a new school. (We got him transferred because of our horrible experience last year) He likes his new teacher but says she is a grandma :) I am excited to see what this year has in store for Jonathan. I really hope he learns to love school again.

Jonathan at his desk

Katelyn started Kindergarten. Let me tell you she has been waiting for this day since last year. She was so ready for this day. We got to class and she sat right down and started her work. She only had school for an hour today but as soon as she got home she wanted to do homework (which she did not have) so we did a few little workbook pages that we had at home. Just like her older brother I hope this year is full of fun and learning.

In front or Evans Ranch Elementary

At her desk.

Waiting to go out to recess

Waiting for me to pick her up

Braden's new friend

2010-08-03T21:01:00.000-07:00

Braden's birthday is the 4th so we took him (just him) to Toys R Us to pick out some presents so we had an idea what to get him. As we were checking out Matt saw some people taking pictures. We caught up to him and got a picture ourself Meet Braden and his new buddy :)

New baby and Addisyn's new trick

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

Kevin and Missa Finally had their baby girl on July 23rd. Her name is Indee Rae Pellegrino and she is the cuties little girl. She is so sweet. I was so luck to have a husband and family that would watched my boys so I could help Missa with her first week as a new mommy. By the way she is a great mom. She only had the same questions that every new mom has. While we were up there we were able to spend the night at the home of family friends the Shelley's. They have an amazing home with a playroom Katelyn could not get enough of. Our last night in Utah the Shelley's were kind enough to open their home so we could all get together one last time before we headed back to California. It was so nice being able to spend time with my brother and his family. I wish they lived closer.

Create your own slideshow design

Next on this post is Addisyn's new tricks she started to do while in Utah. First she started to wave which I have no picture of but it is dang cute. And the second is that she started to stand. Matt was working with Addi before we left for Utah but to no avail. Now she is a pro. She doesn't take any steps yet but at 8 1/2 months old that is pretty good. She looks so funny standing there because she is so tiny. My toothless little girl is getting so big.

Circus Fun

2010-07-19T10:50:00.000-07:00

Friday we had a fun Cousin night. We all took our families to see Ringling Brothers at the Staples center. The kids loved it. We got there an hour early so we could go on the floor and meet the entertainers and take some pictures. I think it was a bit to much for my crew. Matt and Jonathan just went right to our seats (which were perfect I might add) Katelyn and Braden and I stayed on the floor but didn't want any pictures with anyone. Oh well they still had a blast. Once the circus started my kids were glued to the show. Even Addisyn enjoyed it. I think it made it even better that they were there with their cousins. Thanks Liz and Scott for the great idea. We had so much fun. Enjoy the pictures.

Make your own slideshow

Laughlin Trip

2010-07-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

Before you read about the trip you have to see the cliff we jumped (well Pat and Jonathan Jumped) I couldn't do it. I got to the top looked down and said no way to high. My jump was a bit lower. Pat wanted me to post his accomplishment for all to see.

This last weekend we took a trip to the Lake with the Matt's sister Lisa and her family. It was sooooo hot but a lot of fun. We stayed at the Edgewater in Laughlin. We were there Thursday - Monday and came home with not a single burned kid. I am very proud of myself. Matt is a different story he did come home with a sun Rash. Normally I'm the one that gets it but not this year thank heavens. We brought the sea doo's which my kids loved. I let Katelyn drive it a few times she was in heaven. I think she really liked the control of it. Braden loved to go fast and wanted us to jump the wakes (he did that with daddy)On the last day there Braden and Katelyn went behind the boat on the knee board all by themselves. I held on for one loop then let go Braden was a little upset because he thought they were going to leave with me just floating in the lake. We found some cliffs to jump from. One I did that pretty high but we didn't have the camera so no proof. But, later we went to some others and had the camera but I chickened out. It was really high. Pat and Jonathan Elkins jumped I suck to the smaller ones. I was the most proud of my little Jonathan because he jumped from a rock that was pretty high for him. The trip was fun. I wish we could have stayed longer but Matt had to get back to work. We still have one more big trip this summer to Idaho. We can not wait for that one. Enjoy the pictures.

Personalize your own slideshow design

June activities & 4th of July

2010-07-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I have posted sorry. Summer life is crazy. I have been on the go since my grandpa's funeral. I am just getting back to the swing of things. This post is going to have a little bit of everything. First things first.

We had all the family down when grandpa Milt died so we were able to do a few things with the Cockrell's. We always have fun when they are around one day we headed to the beach to the tide pools It was high tide but we still had fun Aaron (Chris's little boy) wasn't to sure he was going to like it at first but after awhile we couldn't get him to leave.

Customize your own slideshow design

We also took a trip with the kids to the Discovery Science center while the Dad's and Uncle's went to the beach and the Aunt's went shopping. My kids loved it. Jonathan is such a science kid he couldn't get enough of it. Then they had the Dino fossil hunt which my kids loved but I had to be really involved so I didn't get many pictures of that. They can't wait to go back.

Photo slideshow generated with Smilebox

We had our first 4th of July in Lake Elsinore. We had fun with some friends and family. Ryan, Denise, Julie, Brett, My mom and Pat. Then later on that day the Vidal's (from our ward) came. We had a BBQ and a water balloon fight then got all cleaned up and headed to the park to see the fireworks. After the fired works we headed back to our house to make smores with our fire pit. I love that we are able to have these get together's at our house.

Make your own free scrapbook design

Baby must have give away

2010-06-10T11:47:00.000-07:00

http://grosgrainfabulous.blogspot.com/2010/06/hunbaba-mei-tai-baby-carrier-guest.html

Go to this link to enter to win

No more Monkey's jumpen on the bed...

2010-06-03T07:16:00.000-07:00

Our first broken bone. Katelyn was putting a pillow away in the guest room. I have told them over and over again that room is off limits and they just don't listen. She said she was on the bed putting the pillow away when her feet got tangled up in the blanket and fell into the corner if the dresser. She came down the stairs crying. Matt said her heard the fall from his workshop. She was crying pretty hard and just wanted her daddy. Good thing he was home. He held her a bit then looked at the damage. We decided to take her into urgent care to have her nose looked at because it looked broken. Off to Urgent care we went. Good thing we I took her because she broke her nose. The doctor said there was really nothing they could do that night. But, they will have the specialist call me in a few days to set up an appointment to have her nose looked at when the swelling goes down. Hopefully it will be able to heal on it's own. Her nose is a bit stuffed from the swelling but he said thing could have shifted and they may have to go in and fix that??? Fingers crossed that is not the case. She was a trouper. Hardly cried and let the Doctor do what he needed to check her out. She woke up this morning not able to open her eye and she thought that was pretty funny. She liked waking her brothers up to show them her battle scar. Her are some pictures of our cute little girl.

***Pictures from last night***

Her sad face. She was smiling when I got ready to take this picture. I had to tell her to give me a sad face. Pretty good.

Now her smile. So sweet even with a black eye.

She was happy to get the ice pack. Her face hurt really bad unless she had something cold on it.

***Pictures from the next morning***

It is not as black and blue. I thought it would have been worse. But she could not open her eye.

I had Memorial weekend pictures that I wanted to post but they will have to wait I thought everyone would like to see these pictures first.

Jonathan's party & a gift for me

2010-05-26T18:19:00.000-07:00

Saturday we celebrated Jonathan's 7th birthday with our friends and family. The turn out was great. We had a blast. Jonathan loved the jumper. For some reason the kids all decided to go up to the playroom and put on some of the kids dress up stuff. Thats why we have a cowboy running around, Mario and Luigi and at one point Jonathan came out in his baseball uniform cleats and all. the girls were all in Katelyns dresses (some of my old formals from high school) :) When my dad got here he asked if he missed the memo that it was a costume party. You would have thought with all these kids running around in dress up. It was a great party I am so glad that those that we love were able to make it enjoy the slide show.

Another digital slideshow by Smilebox

Now to my present. I went out side to weed today and guess what I found?????? Some rasberries. Well 2 to be exact. But they are growing. I am so excited. I even found 5 strawberried starting to grow to. My thumb may be green after all. I can't wait until I have a bush of berries growing. This is so exciting. I love having a garden.

What we really have been up to

2010-05-19T16:03:00.000-07:00

This last weekend Matt worked his tail off and got the sprinklers done and the grass layed. He is my hero. I love that guy and how hard he works for our family. I think I worked him too hard though cause now he is sick. So, I took advantage of one of his sick days and decided to start our garden. Along the back wall we have a mow strip for plants. I got a few from my aunt and uncle when they were down for Christmas (yes they are still alive) I planted those. And I took two bushes out of the front that we had replaced with other plants. Then I went to Lowe's and got 2 raspberry bushes and some strawberries. I'm not sure if my thumb is brown or green we will see if they are all still alive next month. I also layed some pavers down for a hopscotch in the play area. The kids love it. It was a fun addition I found on a web site. So, here are a few pictures of our mostly finished back yard. I love it, the kids love it, Matt is just happy the hard part is done :) Well, so he thinks we still have the swing set to put up.

Big #7

2010-05-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

Jonathan turned 7 yesterday. We took him to dinner the night before to get him some Ribs (tradition for him) Before we got to Chili's his other tooth fell out. That is 4 in 2 months :) so when he woke up on his birthday the tooth fairy came and left him an extra $1 for his birthday. He was so excited the tooth fairy left him a gift. We had a birthday breakfast a tower of his favorite donuts. Then he opened his gift. Love the wrapping paper. 11:30 Saturday night I realized I had no tape or wrapping paper. I can remember many presents that my dad wrapped for us with foil or newspaper so I resorted to the foil :) I think he enjoyed his small birthday. Saturday is the real party.

I can not believe how big he is getting and so fast. The kid is nearly as tall as I am and so smart. I keep telling Matt Jonathan is much smarter than I was at his age. As hard as it is to be a mom of 4 sometimes I wouldn't trade them for anything. I can still remember being pregnant with him 7 years ago and how excited Matt and I were to be expecting our little boy. Now he is all grown up and not my baby anymore. He loves his snuggle time with mommy. but when I put him on my lap he feels huge. I'm gonna have to start sitting on his lap :) We love you Jonathan Hope you had a happy Birthday.

A free photo slideshow by Smilebox

Fire pit

2010-05-17T09:41:00.000-07:00

We got a fire pit from Dave and Sue for Christmas. We finally used it on Friday night. It was the Father's and son's Camp out but Matt wasn't able to take the boys. He had way to much work to do so I thought of doing a small campfire and invited the Vidal's since I knew they weren't able to go either. We got some hot dogs and they got the smore stuff. The kids had fun especially when it got to the smore part. They brought the ginormous marshmallow's. They were like 4X the size of a normal one. But were yummy. After the sugar high the kids went in the house and watched a movie while the parents got to sit by the camp fire and chat. It was a fun night. I am really gonna like the fire pit.

This digital slideshow personalized with Smilebox

More guests

2010-05-11T12:15:00.000-07:00

My mom and Pat came and stayed the weekend with us. We worked hard on Saturday in the backyard for a few hours by noon it go to hot. Ryan and Denise came over with their new addition to their family their puppy Toby. Our new Cousin :) We decided to go to Tom's farm eat some yummy food play a few games then go shopping for a few treats. We always love when family comes to visit. The kids didn't want Toby to leave so before my sister left we took some cousin pictures. (that's all I am going to get from Ryan and Denise right now no babies just a puppy) Enjoy our pictures from Tom's farm and the new addition to our extended family. I ended our slide show with some cute pictures of Addi. She is the cutest little girl in the world :)

Photo slideshow personalized with Smilebox

Splish...Splash

2010-05-07T08:04:00.000-07:00

We had Liz and her two kids over for a few days while Scott was out training. It was nice having them here. My kids always love have their cousins and Aunt around. I have to admit I love it to when Liz is here. We always have so much fun. So, now are guests are gone and life is back to normal. Here are a few pictures I took from one of our pool days. Lisa came down with her 3 kids. We swam and cooked up some hot dogs. The kids had a blast together.

Create your own free digital slideshow

Piano Lessons

2010-04-26T10:55:00.000-07:00

Katelyn has started piano lessons. She loves the piano. She plays it almost everyday and even taught herself a song. So when I found out a sister in our was taught I took full advantage especially since she is just down the street from us. This morning I got the stroller out and we walked to Katelyn's first lesson. Katelyn has been asking me for the last 4 days is it Monday yet???? After the lesson her teacher walked her home and gave her some homework to do. She said Katelyn did very well for her first lesson. I took a picture of her at home already ready to practice after her first lesson. I am so proud of my big girl. I hope she sticks with it. Piano is one thing I wish I could do better. Maybe I will learn along with her :)

Reset and our Backyard

2010-04-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

So lots has happened in the last few weeks but I haven't blogged it because I was posting my reset. My final pictures are not as good as I had hoped because Matt took them from a bad angle so I am making him retake them. Hopefully I will get those done soon. But my final weight loss was 7 lbs I lost an my wast was 33 in I went down to 31 1/2 in my belly was 36 3/4 in down to 34 3/4 in. I was very proud of myself for sticking with it. I am now in the transform phase and am really happy with how it is going. I am not feeling as hungry and I have a lot more energy.

Now on to the pictures First we got the cement done in our backyard finally :) I love it we are so happy. Now we are on to the sprinklers. Matt's Dad has been a really big help. He has been here twice to help put but they keep running into complications :) There are a few pictures of the kids outside while we are working on the backyard. They love to have picnic's out back now that we have the cement. We put our E-Z up up so they have some shade. Our next project after sprinklers is the play set that has been sitting in our garage for the last month.

This free picture slideshow generated with Smilebox

2010-04-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

So it has been a few days since I posted. I have been working hard and have stuck to the 5 day reset. So here is the scale for days 3 and 4

Day 3

Day 4

Still shedding the pounds. :) I am so happy. I put on a skirt this past Sunday that I was not able to get into the Sunday before.

When Matt Gets home from work I am going to have him take the final picture and do my measurements. Then I will put up my final post. So look back tonight or tomorrow morning :)

Day 2

2010-04-17T08:13:00.000-07:00

So I ended day 2 and I am to my 5 lb mark. whoooo. Now any more weight I lose is a plus. I tell ya if you have a few extra pounds you want to lose this is it. You should really try this.

For my 30 min of exersise I did the Wii fit plus with the kids. Had fun with the kids and did a work out nothing better than that.

Day 1 on Reset

2010-04-16T09:48:00.000-07:00

Day 1 - 147 lbs
33in waist

Morning: I started my day off at 7am got Jonathan ready for school made my breakfast drink and took my vitamins. The drink wasn't so bad just add water and drank it while taking Jonathan to school. I just have to remember to drink a lot of water today.

Mid-morning: Had my snack a oatmeal raisin bar. I was actually pretty good I don't like oatmeal. I can totally eat this everyday. Now off with the kids to jog while they ride their bikes. Need to drink a lot of water

We were gone about 45 min and I did a walk run 1.5 miles all the kids could handle.

Afternoon: Made my lunch and decided to blend one of my fruit servings in it. Pretty good. I haven't really felt to hungry yet.

Had a afternoon snack some baby carrots. I love those things.

Evening: Cooked dinner for the family. A little depressing since I can't eat it but decided to eat with the family. I steamed my last serving of veggies and ate with them. Then Blended another drink with a banana.

Evening snack: Yummy chocolate peanut butter crunch bar, water and then the evening pack of vitamins. I am still pretty satisfied not going to bed hungry.

End of day weight 145.5 yeah lost 1 1/2 lbs

That is a typical day on reset. I am not going to post another day like that, so detailed you get the picture. Tomorrows post will be much shorter and to the point :)

Reset

2010-04-15T11:51:00.000-07:00

Matt and I have started a healthier lifestyle. Matt and I have cut soda out. We are always stocked up with fruit and veggies. I am trying to make healther dinners and then decided we needed to add vitamins too. We got some Vitamins from a company called USANA and we love them. I have felt great since we started them. I decided to try their weight loss and body cleanse system called Reset. I started it today it is a 5 day 5 lbs and up to 1 1/2 in from your waist. I wanted to take you my friends and family on my journey. Here are some before pictures taken last night.

I know what am I thinking???? this is my real weight (remember I am only 5ft 1in when I am stretching) I will weight myself each night in the same clothes so not to add or subtract anything.

My beginning weight : 147 lbs.

My beginning measurements: 33 in. waist 36 3/4 in @my belly

Check back tomorrow and I will post again. I am hoping there is a difference in the next 5 days #1 because I need to get healthy but also because I need to lose the baby weight it is almost bathing suit season ladies :)

Family Easter pictures

2010-04-15T08:23:00.000-07:00

So since Easter landed on a conference weekend we didn't get to wear our Easter outfits. So last Sunday we got all dressed up went to church then took some quick pictures out front. We were our own photographers so the picture :)

Is it really happening????????

2010-04-15T08:08:00.000-07:00

The day has finally come. I thought it would never be here. Excitement, a little bit of worry, anticipation. The big day started yesterday. We have begun our back yard. YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! No more dirt. We are starting with the cement. We finally found someone we could afford. We wish we could have used family or friends but even they were to expensive. So the work has begun and should be done Friday. Hopefully we will be able to get grass in the next couple of weeks. Our house is going to be a never ending project but at least we have one of the BIG things started. The rest I can live with for a while. So here are some pictures of the progress so far. Any one need any work done they do a great job (well at least so far) more pictures to come.

Early Easter Picnic

2010-03-29T11:08:00.000-07:00

Saturday we got together with family and had a early Easter Picnic and egg hunt with the cousins at a park by our house. The kids had a blast with their cousins. But before the fun we took pictures of the cousins together. We got matching outfits for the girls and boys. I think they we to cute but hey I'm related to them all.

Cousin picture

(Braden, Austin, Payton,Rylie,Katelyn,Wyatt,Charlotte,Jonathan, Addisyn)

After pictures we ate and let the kids go play. My dad came with Karen and their two kids. They brought their baseball gear and they headed to the top of the hill so that the mom's could hide all the eggs. The kids could not wait for the Easter egg hunt :) Once we were done they came running down the hill ready to hunt. We let the 3 younger kids go first, a min. ahead of the older kids then they were all off. Charlo was so funny she would only pick up the pink and purple eggs. That girl always puts a smile on my face. When the hunt was over the kids opened their eggs to see what they got. I love seeing the smiles on their faces. Holidays are so much fun especially when you get to spend them with family.

Happy early Easter everyone

Make sure you spend the actual day with those you love and remember why we celebrate Easter. Christ suffered for our sins then gave us the best gift ever resurrection. Always remember the reason for THIS season.

Our Baby is getting big

2010-03-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

Addisyn is 4 months today. I can not believe how fast time has gone by. She has hit two milestones. Her first is she started eating rice cereal. She won't take a bottle from me and she doesn't like the passy. All she wants to do is nurse so I decided to give myself a break from one meal a day. She loves it. Our big girl eats rice cereal like a pro.

****************************Picture by Braden****************************

****Notice her legs. She use to have the Dwelley legs (very skinny) But she is packing on the weight I love her rolls on her thighs.

Her other milestone which I don't have a picture of is she rolled over for the first time yesterday. From belly to back. Matt and I were playing with her on the floor and she did it. It was so neat because Matt and I were both there to see her do it for the first time. I think Matt has missed a few firsts because of work so this was nice. We scared her though because as soon as she rolled we both cheered because we were so excited.

I love this little girl to death. She always has a smile on her face. You can tell she loves us as much as we love her. Happy 4th month Addi we love you.

Valentines weekend

2010-02-16T08:36:00.001-08:00

Jonathan had a long 4 day weekend for Valentines. We tried to do something fun as a family. The weekend started with a delivery of flowers to me from Matt. They weren't very pretty when I first got them (Matt was worried when he saw them) But then they bloomed the next day and were beautiful. I love the flowers they still look beautiful. That evening we had a ward family pioneer activity. I wish I took pictures the kids looked so cute all dressed up.
Saturday we took a trip to Tom's farm and road the pony's. They really wanted to go on the train but it wasn't open yet. We didn't want to wait it started getting hot really early. We always have fun at Tom's.
Sunday we packed our bags to stay the night at my mom's. We had a farewell in Placentia and a home coming in Downey. Denise's brother in-law Kyle came home. I can't believe how fast 2 yeas has gone by. After spending some time at the Lang's we stopped by Matt's parents house to give Grandma her Valentine's card from Katelyn (the only kid that wanted to make cards)
Monday We packed our lunch got our Valentines and headed to the park for a valentines party with some friends. I have realized with the 4 kids I forget to take pictures. I wish I took more. Go to Courtney's blog I am sure she has more. I didn't even get very many pictures of Jonathan. We had a jam packed weekend full of fun. I don't think life will ever settle down. So until our next adventure.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Mary Poppins, Great Grandpa and the Clippers

2010-02-11T10:27:00.000-08:00

Saturday night Matt and I were able to go and see the play Mary Poppins with my Ryan and Denise. It was a good play. Different than the movie but good. I wouldn't go see it again but worth one visit. They sang songs that were not from the movie and had some different characters. My favorite part was on the roof tops with the chimney sweeps. Soooooo good. All in all it was a fun night out with my hubby we don't get those nights to often.

Then Tuesday we went to a Clippers/Jazz game with Scott, Liz, Alex. Courtney and her two oldest. Before the game I took the kids to go see their great grandma and grandpa. I realized that I had no pictures of Addisyn with my grandpa so I had to get one with them together. It makes me so sad to see my grandpa like this because I know how unhappy he is right now stuck in his bed. But am grateful he is still here with us. He really means a lot to me and my family. My kids love him so much. I am grateful to my grandma for taking such good care of him even though I know it is really hard for her sometimes.

***Great grandpa and Addi***

Then off to the clippers game. Jonathan had so much fun with Noah. Noah brought his binoculars to see the game up close. I could hear the boys laughing. So I listened a bit. They were using the binoculars to look at the cheerleaders, So funny.. Jonathan got embarrassed when I asked him what they were looking at. The boys had a blast together cheering for the clippers (or as Jonathan kept calling them the cutters) It was a fun night with family and friends.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

My kids are so cute

2010-02-06T08:50:00.000-08:00

Matt loves to make Addiyn smile and laugh at him. She has the cutest biggest smile. One that makes you melt. After dinner just like any other day Matt sat in his chair and began playing with her. After much laughing and smiling she started yelling at Matt. Watch the video every time he touches her face she yells.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

That same day just a little earlier I couldn't find my keys. I went into the garage and asked Matt if he knew where they were and Braden came running in the garage with a magnify glass in hand and said "It's a mystery" Then he ran around the house with his magnify glass to his eye looking for my keys. When we finally found them he grabbed my keys and said "the mystery is solved" Where does this 3 year old come up with these things.

This is why kids are so great. They can mess up your house, fight with each other, not listen to you when you ask them to do something (well at least my kids do all those things) and in an instant they can put a smile on you face because of the cute things they do. As hard as it is to b a mom I love it. I really do have the cutest kids.

January

2010-02-01T08:01:00.000-08:00

This is going to be a long blog one full month of fun in one post :)

January brought us a lot of fun. We have been so busy. And it is hard getting on this blog to post anything with Addisyn. I am still getting use to having 4 kids. So we started off the year with our first New Years Eve party in our new home. My sister and her Hubby Ryan came as well as his sister Tiffany and her hubby Steve. I picked up My younger sister and brother so they could spend the night with us too. It was a family affair. We played games and Rang in the new year together. It was a lot of fun.

Our Next big event was Addisyn's Blessing. How Bad am I I didn't take any pictures with the Family. Just one with Addisyn by herself. We also celebrated Katelyn's 5th birthday that day. I can't believe she is 5 already. She is getting big way to fast.

On Katelyn's real Birthday the 8th Pat came and stayed the night Matt took the day off of work and we headed to Sea World. Katelyn got to feed, train and pet a dolphin with her Daddy. We got a tone of pictures, she had a blast. She still talkes about it. We were able to get year passes because of a special that they had going on. We are excited to be able to go back again.

We had a lot of rain. We live in a valley so we had a lot of flooding. I almost couldn't get Jonathan from school one day because most of the roads to get there were flooded. I only have one picture of our street. I wish I had more of the roads around us.

Addisyn turned 2 months this month. She is getting so big. This last Sunday at church she started laughing for the first time in Sunday school. It was so cute and we didn't want her to stop but it was not the best place to have her laugh. We haven't been able to get her to do it again since :(

Our last family trip for the month of January was to Tom's Farm. We let the kids go on one ride there and they picked the big slide. I love the picture we got of them going down. Then we walked around the shops and got ice cream. I think we are going to make this a monthly tradition. Tom's Farm is a lot of fun.

I hope I can keep up my blog a bit better this month. I know you like the updates grandma :)

Christmas

2009-12-27T17:39:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Christmas Eve with the Dwelley side. Always a large gathering. We had our traditional dinner. Then opened presents. The kids always love getting together with their cousins. We got home pretty late and had to start putting Santa gifts together. All I have to say is thank heavens we had 4 extra people over and staying the night to help get our stuff put up. We were up till 2 am as is. If alone Matt and I may have never gone to bed. The next morning the kids woke up at 6:30am. We had Christmas at our house this year. So much fun. Our first Christmas in our new home and we were surrounded by family. My mom made our traditional Christmas breakfast then we all pitched in and made dinner. Not without a few bumps along the way :) We always have a good laugh when we all get together. I love the holiday season and the time we get to spend with the family. Until next year. I can not wait.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

The reason for the season

2009-12-08T16:07:00.000-08:00

The kids went to our ward primary party Saturday morning. They had pancakes, made Christmas cards and saw Santa. I think they had a lot of fun.

Jonathan made an Angel card. I think he did a pretty good job. Atleast you can tell it's an angel :)

Later that evening we went to our stakes Annual "Joy to the World" program.

Matt and I along with Addisyn had the opportunity to play the part of Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus in a live Nativity scene. Before it was our turn to do the nativity we walked around to look at all the different nativities they had on display. It was a good start to the holiday season.

They also had a little area set up with costumes for families to dress up and take nativity pictures so we had our Mary, Jesus, wise man, and sheperd.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2009-12-02T20:17:00.000-08:00

My grandma has become quite the PC pro and can go on blogs to look at pictures and read stories from her grandkids who are all spread all around now. This is why I love the computer so much it keeps family some what in touch.

So, I thought I would write this blog for my grandma to let her know how much we love and appreciate her. I am one lucky girl to have had my grandma in my life so close and for so long. She has always been a big part of my family. I just wanted to wish her a happy birthday and let her know how much my family loves and appreciates her. Happy birthday Grandma.

Here are a couple of pictures I had on my Computer of my grandma.

Fun with Braden

2009-11-25T22:01:00.000-08:00

We brought Addisyn home Friday afternoon and my mom came at like 6:00 and picked up Jonathan and Katelyn for their trip to Utah. I really only had the 4 kids together for a few hours. I have only been a mom of 2. It has been nice because Matt and I have been able to pay a tone of attention to Braden. We were really worried the new baby would be hard for him. So here are a few things that we have been able to do with him. Nothing big since I really can't leave the house yet but none the less things that Braden was really excited to do.

First off Braden has really got to spend a lot of time with Addisyn. He loves to hold her and has even feed her a few times.

He loves to take pictures of her this was one of them.

I took him out front to roll down our hill. He insisted I take pictures of him.

We found his old baby play mat and put batteries in it him and Addisyn played under it together.

Then the best thing we did was make a cake. He asked if I would make a cake for him. so I said sure. It is a really yummy chocolate cake you make in the microwave. It looks weird in the picture but it is yummy. After I made it he asked where the candles were. I didn't know he wanted a birthday cake. I have no birthday candles but I do have big house candles. So we sang happy birthday and he blew out his candle. He loved it. I miss Jonathan and Katelyn but it has been really nice spending time with my little boy. He has been such a big help. Clearing the table after we eat, cleaning up his messes, getting me diapers, and just being a good big brother. I love my sweet Braden and am grateful for the time I have got to spend with him.

Welcome to our crazy family Addisyn

2009-11-20T20:03:00.001-08:00

I would like you to meet

ADDISYN LOUISE DWELLEY

November 19, 2009

6lbs. 14oz. 19 1/2 in.

Mommy and baby are home and well. Addisyn is a great addition to our family. The kids are in love with their new baby sister. Jonathan loves to hold her. Everytime he kisses her he has to tapher tiny nose. I think it is sweet. Katelyn wants to hold her 24-7 and loves to help. Braden everytime he sees her says "I love you baby Addisyn" Daddy loves her new baby girl and doesn't want to leave her. Mommy is just happy she is such a good girl.

As soon as we got home I had to pack the two older kids for their trip with grandma. My mom and Pat are spending Thanksgiving in Utah with Kevin and Missa. Joanthan and Katelyn are going along with them. As much as I am going to miss my two oldest it is going to be nice to have the week with our two youngest.

Our home part 1

2009-11-03T08:28:00.000-08:00

Things are slowly getting together with the help of my Family :) My mom was great at getting my boxes out of the house and cleaning a few weekends ago. It was a huge help. We painted the kids beds. Got them set up in the bedrooms (they had been sleeping on the floor for a week) and got their dressers in. I painted the family room (big No No) I paid for it later and decided I shouldn't really be doing that at 8 months prego. Then Ryan and Denise came to help paint a bit more this last weekend. I think we did more playing than painting but we got most of our vaulted ceiling done which was a huge help. It may have never gotten done. There was no way I was going to do it. So the last few days I have been putting up pictures and stuff to make it look more like a home. I still have a lot to do but money is tight and the baby is going to be here soon so I figured I should post something now or I may never :) So here is our humble home. Candace and Wendy you will see by the pictures I am in need of your decorating skills. I'm thinking a California trip is needed :) This is only the down stairs. It is the cleanest. I will try and get part 2 soon.

I had to put the picture of Matt and Ryan painting. Matt was so scared. I was laughing and he was peeing his pants (Braden thought he really did)

The front of the house

Our Entry (I am putting a mirror above the table)

1/2 bath right at the entry

Our Empty Living room (all out of $$$$) Someday it will have a couch :)

Formal dinning room (thank goodness for family furniture the hutch is my Great-Grandma Pellegrino's)

Kitchen view from family room

Family room view from kitchen

First Day of school

2009-09-09T12:26:00.000-07:00

Jonathan is now a first grader. The only thing I really don't like is that he is in a K-1 class. He has the same teacher as last year (love her) He was put in this class because we are leaving in October. Jonathan was excited to get to see his friends. He was a little upset that I didn't give him money for lunch. I packed it for him. So we decided on 2 days a week he can eat at the cafeteria. We are up by 6:30 every morning He has been doing very well. I am not a morning person but Jonathan is even more than I am. Just ask Ryan :) We'll see how next week goes. So here are a few pictures from his first day.

Matt's week is not complete unless we go see the house. So this is strictly because Matt likes me to update the blog with house pictures. I know you are most likely getting board of these pictures. Update on the house we are just waiting to get out of under writing so they can release the flooring and do a major cleaning so we can do our walk through and sign the paperwork. I am really stressing about the backyard. We have no idea what to do and know whatever we do is going to cost an arm and a leg. All our money is going to buying the house, we are broke :) Buying a house is a slow stressful process.

Thumbusters

2009-08-29T22:36:00.000-07:00

We are trying something with our 4 year old soon to be 5. She has a very bad habit of sucking her thumb. Wouldn't be so bad if it wasn't pushing her front teeth out. She is such a cute little girl and teeth are expensive to fix. So, I went on line and got these thumbusters. We will see how it works wish her luck. She wants to stop but it is really hard for her.

Matt went to Lake Elsinore for a guys wakeboarding trip. His cousin's Keith and Ryan and our Brother in-law's Jonathan and Ryan. I think they had a good time. No pictures though. But, they did stop by the house and take pictures. Here are a few. Matt can't go a week without seeing the progress. We were excited to see what had been done in a week.

It is getting closer........

2009-08-23T22:16:00.000-07:00

I haven't been really good with pictures of the kids when we go out. I will try and do better :) However I have been taking lots of pictures of our new home. It is now the home stretch with the house. We are so excited with the progress. This last visit to the house the kids were finally able to go inside and see everything. Until now they have only been able to see the house from the outside. So this was a treat for us all. Now on to the pictures.....

All the cement is down I like the driveway, it's not Matt's favorite. :) At least I am happy. That's all that matters right???

Here is Katelyn and Jonathan standing at our front door ready for their first walk into the house. Braden had just woken up and wouldn't stand by the door. He is hiding behind the pillar.

This is our kitchen. They have the granite down. I love it. We are very happy with the color. I love my kitchen :)

Our formal dinning room. We don't really like the light but we can replace it later.

The boys in their new room. Jonathan is so excited. Braden just loves looking out the windows.

Katelyn and the babies room. Look at that happy little girl.

Katelyn wanted to take a picture of me so here is me in my new Master bath in the tub. I can not wait to soak in it :)

Katelyn taken a shower in her dad's shower :)

Backyard from our bedroom windows. We love the size but now we have to figure out what to do with it :)

So that's it for now our humble home is on its way . They have all the light switches, plugs, smoke detectors and air conditioning covers in. Molding is all up and painted. We just need the the bathrooms done, kitchen appliances flooring and a really good cleaning and we should be on our way. My last picture is for Katie. I hope you can see. Katelyn took a picture of me and Matt in the kitchen. One of the only belly shots I have right now sorry Katie.

Our Big 3 year old....

2009-08-12T16:34:00.000-07:00

Braden turned 3 the beginning of August. He is to cute. I would ask him what he wanted for his birthday and his response would always be Cake and candles. We didn't do anything big just a small family get together the day of his birthday.Here are some pictures from that day.

Blowing out his candles. I wish we had a picture of his face when we sang to him. He was so excited.

My mom got him a hampster to replace the one that died a few months back. This one is a good one cause it bites when they try to pick her up. So she stays in the cage most of the time :)

I still can not believe my baby is 3 he always puts a smile on my face even when I am trying to be mad. This is one of my new favorite pictures of him. I took a picture of Katelyn cause we curled her hair so braden wanted on of him too this is how it turned out.

He has his mommy's problem his cheeks get in the way and his eyes get squished shut. So I told him to try and open his eyes. This is how it turned out. My little guy is so cute.Hope this puts a smile on your face like it does to mine. Until the next post :)

What have we been doing??????

2009-07-20T14:27:00.000-07:00

July has been full of activities. My blog has been the last thing on my list. We had a busy 4th of July weekend Friday as a family and Saturday with our friends. Then we had a week to get all cleaned up and ready for family to come help us get ready for Denise and Ryan's wedding. Then a few days of play and wedding set up. Finally the wedding and now family is all gone and we can get back to normal.
Well, some what normal. In the middle of all the mess my grandpa had a stroke and had to be put in the hospital. He isn't doing very well. We think this may be a slow end of a great life for him. He is in a rehabilitation center but are not sure his body will let him. He is 85 and had a great life. My kids love him. I am so grateful they were able to know their great grandpa Milt. So enough of the sad. Denise's wedding was beautiful. If was a great sealing and super fun party after. I love when all the family gets together. I didn't get to spend to much time with them but something is better than nothing. so enjoy the little pictures I have right now. I will post more when I get them.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

I know I really don't have many pictures from the wedding. I was busy making sure things went well for Denise and Ryan. My mom is getting a disk ready so I will do more pictures later.

Really quick here are some updated pictures of our house things are moving along very quickly.

Master Bathroom

Playroom

From kitchen looking into the family room

A camping we will go.......

2009-07-01T17:02:00.000-07:00

We took which will most likely be our only big family vacation this summer to Yosemite. Thanks to Courtney and Alex for inviting us we had an amazing trip. I really can't wait to go again. The kids had a blast getting dirty, playing with their friends and just the nature around them. Jonathan was in bug heaven. Katelyn and Braden loved chasing whatever animal was getting into our trash. There was something for everyone to do 24 -7.

Our last full day there we did a trip with just our family. We rented bikes and went on a few hikes. Or first hike we were going to go to Mirror Lake but decided to do the Veil falls hike instead. Boy was that a mistake. It was a up hill hike the entire time. The kids were troopers and make it to the base of the falls. I wasn't sure I was even gonna make it. Once to the top it was the most beautiful thing ever. I am glad we did it.

So much to tell about our vacation but I don't want this whole blog to be reading. Look at the pictures and then plan a trip for yourself to Yosemite.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

We couldn't have asked for better people to vacation with than Alex, Courtney and their family. Plus, Liz and our cute niece Charlo.

The frame is almost done...

2009-06-12T22:41:00.000-07:00

We went out to see our house today. We had an appointment for flooring. We took a few pictures of the progress. But first some of the samples for of our carpet, cabinets, counter tops and flooring. We really wanted to get laminate in the kitchen and entry but it was going to cost us $6,000 that we didn't have. So, we got the free stuff, not perfect but fit in our budget. We can upgrade later :)

Now on to the fun progress of the house. This was Matt's favorite part. The kids liked seeing the window holes of their new bedrooms and the backyard they will get to be playing in.

Here is the backyard. The property divider fence isn't up yet but you get the feel of the size.

We are excited about the progress that is being made in our future home. They better stay busy we want our house ready in September.

Home......

2009-05-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

We have found our HOME. I am happy to say the paperwork is signed and we are starting OUR first home as a family. We purchased a house a little further out than we wanted but it is ours and Matt doesn't mind the drive. We will be living in Canyon Hills in Lake Elsinore. Like I said a bit far but we are so excited. We will be moving this September sometime. Our home has just started being built so you get to see pictures in phases. Right now it is just the foundation. Hopefully soon the frame will be up. We'll see. The kids are excited, we are excited. If the baby is a girl we will have an extra room for guests so anyone that wants to come and visit is more than welcome. Here are some pictures of our new.

This is what the house is going to look like when it is done. The picture is a little squished so I could fit it on the page. It is wider than that

This is the first floor. Matt is using the 3rd car garage for his workshop. He needs it for his side work.

This is the second floor. No Balcony in the master. The loft will be our 4th bedroom and the open to below will be floored in to be our playroom adding square footage to our home which is nice.

So this is our soon to be Home. September seems so far away.

Not so into the computer

2009-05-12T15:14:00.000-07:00

My blog has been very bad this month. This baby has taken its toll on me. I am sick from noon till I go to bed. Looking at the computer makes me even sicker. Don't ask me why. So the little time I spend on the computer is spent house hunting :) Much more important than my blog sorry. I will do an update soon though just let my tummy settle in I am 10 weeks now so this morning sickness thing should be going away soon. Let hope. Our little wiggle worm is doing good we got to see it last week with the kids. They are all very excited for this new one to come. Katelyn and Jonathan think the best part is how mommy's tummy is growing. And let me tell you it has grown a lot for only being 10 weeks pregnant. :) Oh the joys of pregnancy. I promise pictures and updates soon.

Easter and a week of sick...

2009-04-19T09:57:00.000-07:00

This post is a little late but the kids have been sick and I haven't been feeling very well either. So better late than never. We started off the weekend with Jonathan's friend Andrew Reese staying the night. They boys have been wanted to get together so we finally picked a night. The next day we headed to an Easter egg hunt at a park by us to only find out it was at a different park. Ya I have a mommy brain. So since we missed that we decided to take the kids to Knotts. It was a lot of fun. Kind of crowded but still fun. They have a new attraction there where the playhouse use to be. It is a maze that ends in a fome pit. The kids had a blast there.

Saturday was full. After Knotts we met up with Andrews dad and dropped him off to head off to our next activity for the day. Our friend Noah's Birthday at My Gym. The kids and adults always have a blast there. It is fun for all ages :) We didn't get many pictures because we were playing too.

After the party we headed home took baths and decorated eggs. Ya I know we waited until last min. But we have been so busy I forgot. At least we got it in :) The kids had fun. Then the kids went to bed so the Easter bunny could come. Don't mind the pictures my kids look a bit white trash that night :)

he next morning the Easter bunny came. The kids loved going through their stuff. We had to be quick though because church started at 9:00.

After church we headed to Downey for dinner at the Dwelley's and dessert at my mom's. They had a Easter egg hunt for the kids at both houses. I love watching my kids run around wide eyed as they find eggs. I can still remember Jonathan's 1st Easter. Walking around my mom's backyard collecting eggs. He would pick up an egg hold it in his hand see another drop the one in his hand to pick another. Then he would open them. Inside were his favorite thing at the time, rocks. Hey better than candy for a 1 year old :) Oh the Easter memories. Time goes by so fast.

After Easter the sickness really hit our family. Poor Jonathan was stuck in the house for his entire spring break. Braden was the sickest. Jonathan was pretty good until yesterday and today. He woke up with his ear hurting. This may never end. Even though we were sick here our Easter week turned out great. It was full of family and that is all that matters.

Cowboy Round up

2009-04-05T21:33:00.001-07:00

Jonathan had his school carnival on Friday. It was western themed. He got his cowboy gear on with his sheriff badge and headed to school. He loved it. All the Kindergartners did a few little dances for us too. It was way cute. After the dancing he was off playing games and running around with his buddies.

The Picture below is Jonathan getting ready to preform in front of a crowed.

This is a video of a dance that he did.This was one of three. You Can't see him the entire time so it might get boring. I did get good pictures of him in the beginning though.

Playing games with his sister

Braden got to play a few games of his own. He had fun.

Swim Suit giveaway.....

2009-04-04T23:46:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine has just started selling Modbe clothing. She is giving away a swim suit top on a web site. You just have to post a comment and add a link to whatever web page you have. You may win one of the cute suit tops. Give it a try here is a link to the web site

www.fabulesslyfrugal.com/2009/04/modbe-swimsuit-giveaway.html

April Fools

2009-04-01T23:07:00.000-07:00

So how was your April 1st? The kids and I had fun Jonathan played some silly tricks on his friends at school. (Andrew you have a ant on your head....April fools) Then most of they day they were pulling silly pranks on me. They had fun. Our best trick was on their grandma's. First we called my mom. Jonathan got on the phone and with a sickly voice he told her that he broke his arm at baseball today. He did a really good job because my mom was fooled. She laughed and said she hasn't been April fooled in a long time. Jonathan did a great job and thought he was pretty funny. So we got off the phone to call our next victim. Grandma Sue. This time it was Katelyn's turn. Also with her sickly voice she told her grandma that she got a broken arm because Jonathan pushed her down the stairs :) and her cast was pink and that she wanted her to sign it when we saw them next. She also did a great job because when she told her April fools. Grandma laughed because she was fooled. My children may just take up acting. They preformed pretty nicely. I warned them both about next year. So beware to those of you out there the Dwelley kids can't wait to fool you in 2010.

I have no pictures for April Fools day so I thought I would post our family picture. We took them in January when Troy was down for a visit.

Happy St. Patricks Day!!!

2009-03-17T13:28:00.000-07:00

I know the day is not over yet but our St. Patty's day celebration is. Mom is all out of green ideas. When the kids woke up This morning I had the table set up with there breakfast. When I got them out of bed I told them something went really wrong in the kitchen when I was cooking. The eggs turned green, our butter was green the apple sauce was green even when I poured the water and milk it turned green (I love food coloring). Jonathan could not believe it. He had to find that leprechaun that did it. So after breakfast and then getting our green shirts on they set off looking for that sneaky guy. While I was in the bathroom I yelled, HELP!!!! The kids came running in I told them that little leprechaun ran right out from under my bed. They looked and looked but couldn't find him and it was time for school. So we closed all the doors to keep him in and took Jonathan to school.

After school our little friend left a note. That led to another note, then to another and another then finally to his treasure. They found his gold with a note that told them next year he will hide his gold better. It was to easy for them to find.

The kids had a blast and I had fun watching them. I love all the holidays and the fun memories we get to make with them. We are going to end our day with dinner and green Popsicles.

Happy St. Patrick's Day from our little leprechaun and the rest of us too.

The Sox first game

2009-03-07T23:42:00.000-08:00

Jonathan had his first game today. The first thing Jonathan said when he saw the field he was going to be playing on was, "Mom it has real bases." To cute. It made me laugh. Today's game wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. His team played very well. Jonathan even made a few good plays himself. His was great at bat and slid in a home every time I think that was his favorite part. It was so cute to see him get on base (everyone does there are no outs) when on base he would wave and give us the thumbs up sign. At times he got a bit board. But, still hung in there. I am so proud of my big guy. I am excited for the season.

His first hit of the season. Without the tee. Way to go JonO

On base

His slide home. They have been practicing on the grass. Sliding is not very easy to do on the grass. But on this field with the dirt all the kids looked like pro's. Each one got to slide at home plate

Jonathan's Cheerleader

One of Jonathan's many fan's.

In the dugout. Our monkey boy. Would you expect anything else from this kid?

On the field. Got a little boring for him at time but he stuck it out.

The end to the game with the traditional good game line. We had fun watching and Jonathan had fun playing. Until next week.

The Red Sox

2009-03-05T11:49:00.000-08:00

Jonathan has finally started baseball. He is on the Boston Red Sox. He is really good with the bat, doesn't need to hit off the tee, throws really well. Now catching and Fielding and the whole concept of the game just isn't his thing yet. I know he is only in tee ball. I was just hoping it would come natural to him. It's in his blood. But no. He really enjoys baseball and that is what counts.

It was picture day too. He looks so cute in his uniform. He is waiting patiently for his turn.

He has his first game this Saturday. He can't wait. It will be interesting to watch. Go Red Sox!!!!

Sunday Laundry Shirt Dress GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-03-05T11:21:00.001-08:00

Sunday Laundry Shirt Dress GIVEAWAY!!!!

Blushing Buttercream Pettiskirt GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-03-05T11:21:00.000-08:00

Blushing Buttercream Pettiskirt GIVEAWAY!!!!

Another phone call

2009-02-27T12:40:00.000-08:00

I got another phone call yesterday from Jonathan's school. He hit another kids head and got a fat lip. They were very worried about his teeth. He was asked over and over again if his teeth hurt. He said they didn't. So they let him go back to class. She just wanted to call and let me know. Really what is this kid on??? He has way too much energy. I don't know how to calm the kid down. Any Ideas or suggestions? I am open to all.

Jonathan hurt again

2009-02-24T15:02:00.000-08:00

That kid just can't stop. He is going to make us go broke with all his Dental work. He jumped off something at school today and hit his chin on a girls head. His top and bottom teeth hit. The school called me just to let me know and said he was fine to stay at school. But 1 minute later I got another call saying Jonathan wanted me. So off I went to get him from school to see the damage.

You can't see it that good in the picture but his top left side gum is black and blue and it it bleeding around two teeth. So I made a dentist appointment for him. At 2:00 we went in for him to take a look at his teeth. One of the teeth has a crack in it way in the top so they put a tooth splint on it. It looks like my 5 year old has braces on. He was excited though. A tooth didn't get pulled today. Before we got to the dentist he said a prayer for his teeth. Not sure what he said but he had to let me know that before we walked into the office. We go in for a check up in 2 weeks (Matt's birthday) to make sure the crack has healed itself. That kid of mine is a hand full. Later on during the day we were making fun of him saying he cried and the girl didn't. He said he told the girl sorry then started to cry. What a polite boy. I guess we have taught him something. Here is a picture of Jonathan with his braces.

I know he has more metal in his mouth than teeth.

Seeing stars

2009-02-06T12:54:00.001-08:00

Last Friday we went to the Griffith Observatory with Scott, Liz and 3 of her siblings. Jonathan has been asking to go look through the big telescope for weeks. So when the night finally came he was so excited. It was family night so the observatory telescope were free. People from a star watchers club come out once a month with their telescopes and let the public look through them. So much fun. The observatory was fun too. They built a new basement with a bunch of neat things. Jonathan was in heaven. It was a great night that Jonathan still can't stop talking about.

Our family picture with our friend Albert.

Jonathan looking through a telescope. You should have seen the amazement in his eyes.

This was so pretty. Much better in person.

5 days of much needed relaxation

2009-02-01T16:02:00.000-08:00

Matt and I just got back from a Baja Mexico Cruise. It was so much fun. If you have never been on a cruise I highly recommend it. We can not wait for the next one.

You have to go with fun people though. And I think our travel partners were the best. We went with Scott and Liz.

I didn't start the cruise off right I got a bit sea sick and thought it was going to be a miserable trip. But once I got my cool wrist bands and my pills I was good to go. Our room was small but that's OK we didn't have to share it with anyone. What do you think Matt did when we first got there. If you guesses napped you were right. I tried to get a picture of it but he opened his eyes opened and he couldn't stop smiling.

We had our first day at sea and just relaxed in the sun. They had a sauna and steam room that we all went into at least once a day so relaxing.

When we got to Cabo we had our activity all planned out. Scott and Liz did the Canyon Canopy which looked like a lot of fun. But, Matt really wanted to do something in the water so we did Snuba diving. It really was a lot of fun we got to swim with the fish and explore the bottom of the sea. So much fun. We Only went about 20 feet under which was enough for me. Net time I want to do the Canopy adventure.

The first night at dinner which I missed due to my sea sickness I guess the boys ordered a milk with dessert. Our waiter gave them a hard time because baby's drink milk. Everyone else was ordering coffee or a cocktail. So every night there after just before dessert our waiter would bring the boys milk. It was pretty funny.

Along with that dinner experience we each tried something new for dinner Liz and Scott liked it. Matt and I not so much. Liz ordered escargo. Yep that's right we ate a snail. I think to our kids that was the best part of our vacation. Not me. I won't be trying that one again.

Our Nightly dinner table it was the same six every night. This was a couple we ate with. They were a very nice couple. We enjoyed every dinner we had with them.

Each night they had a show that we went to. Very good entertainment. One night there was a hypnotist. I got to go up on stage but was unable to go under. I think it was because I couldn't relax enough. Your feet are suppose to be flat on the floor and I could barely touch it with my toes.

Our last night on the ship. And our last show. To get good seats we would go a littler early and play cards at our table. Lots of fun.

Our cruise was successful. I am already looking at other ones. Its not to early to plan. Who is up for a cruise?

The Lunch Date Blouse GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-01-18T16:04:00.000-08:00

I have only seen her make kids clothes. I really love this blouse. She is a very talented lady. This blouse makes me think of Liz. This is so you. :)

The Lunch Date Blouse GIVEAWAY!!!!

What an imagination

2009-01-16T13:25:00.000-08:00

Jonathan has such an imagination. When ever he is into someone he likes to dress up as that character. He gets in his closet and finds something that looks like that person. For a while we had Indiana Jones running around the house. Well now he loves the Super Mario brothers. He came running down the stairs "Mommy do I look like Mario Brother?" This is what he looked like,

I Couldn't tell you what the cape is for. He was watching a Mario cartoon and he says zero wears it??? Any Mario fans know who zero is? Any ways the best part of the costume was on his face. Here is a close up

He put a sticker on his face that says "train set" the only one he could find for a mustache. I laugh when I saw him. Later that night he took the sticker off. He either ripped it off or his skin just got irritated because that spot the sticker was on stayed red for the rest of the night. So, this is Jonathan's interpretation of Mario. My big guy is so cute.

Our Little girl is 4

2009-01-09T10:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we celebrated Katelyn's 4th birthday. I am sad to say something went wrong with my camera. I went to transfer all the photos from the day and I have none. I have no idea what happened to them. They were some really good pictures. Katelyn went to Libby lou and she got her hair and makeup done. She was so cute and loved all the pampering. Liz picked up Jonathan from school for me and meet us there. Katelyn was so excited to spend her birthday at the happiest place on earth. Braden went on his first roller coaster and loved it. So sad I don't have that picture anymore. It was a long fun day for the kids. I look back at the past 4 years and can't believe how big she has gotten. My little girl isn't so little anymore. She is finally now in primary and is already talking about her 5th birthday. She wants to grow up so fast. We are so grateful for her and her sweet spirit. At times she can be a pill but she is our little snuggle bug that can warm your heart in a second. We love her so much and want to wish her a very happy birthday. Love you Katie girl.

Here's to 2008

2009-01-06T21:33:00.000-08:00

Our 2008 was a great year for us. We moved into a bigger place Jonathan started school. Our family has grown very close this year. I can't believe how big the kids have gotten. Each of them has done something to make our 2008 so great. So to end our year we had a New Years eve party at our house with a few of our family and friends. We played Wii some board games and ate lots of food. Good thing for the Wii fit.

First Family picture of 2009

I know they look drunk but really it is apple cider.

Scott, Liz, Ryan and Denise Ringing in the new year.

Katelyn, Braden, Jonathan and Brady.

New Years Day Dave really wanted to go on a hike. So out of bed and ready for a hike at 9am after a really long night. My mom's night ended at 5am. I still called her and got her to join us in on the fun. I couldn't tell you where we went but it ended up at a stream that the kids loved. We ate a snack, jumped on a few rocks, threw a few rocks and headed back to the car. It was a good day may not have been what I would have planned but it was good memories with their Papa and my mom.

Jonathan jumped from rock to rock. We were lucky to not have any spills.

Katelyn had fun making cookies out of mud for the animals.

Braden and Tytus took turns throwing rocks in to the stream.

I was really hoping Troy would fall in. He does the craziest things. I had to run and get my camera cause if he was going in I had to have it on film. No such luck he actually made it across even with everyone throwing rocks at him trying to get him to fall.

Braden looked so cute with his hiking stick. It helped him get up a pretty steep hill.

On the 3rd we went to Griffith Park with the Dwelley's to get a few big family pictures since Troy was in town with the boys. I haven't got the pictures yet but this one I took with my camera. I love it don't they look like they love each other.

Here's to 2009 may it be as great as 2008.

Our Merry Christmas

2008-12-27T23:02:00.000-08:00

We had a very good Christmas surrounded with family and friends. We started off our Holiday at my mom's. We opened our P.J.'s and read the Nativity from the bible. Then some of us watched a movie while others sat up stairs and sang Christmas songs. I loved that my mom and I sang like we did when uncle Ron was here in California. Then we woke up to our traditional Christmas breakfast on Christmas Eve. My dad came over with Kirsten and Torben and we opened gifts. After my mom's we headed to Grandma Dwelley's to celebrate Christmas with them. Sue had made costumes for the kids and we read the Nativity from a book and as each part was read one of the kids came out. Katelyn was Mary, Braden was Joseph, Jonathan was a sheperd, Austin was a wise men, Rylie and Charlotte we angles. Oh yes we can't forget our donkey played so well by Julie. The kids had fun. We couldn't get Austin out of his costume to open presents. Then we headed home for Santa. We read a Christmas story set out cookies and milk and a letter for santa. Then the kids went to bed. Lucky for us they slept pretty late. We woke them up at 9:00 They were so ecxited to open their gifts. Matts parents, sister and grandma came to watch the kids open gifts. After they left my family came over for dinner. We were so excited to be surprised by Kevin and Missa the Saturday before Christmas. We got to spend a lot of time with them. My kids were way excited to see them. And very sad to see them leave. All in all our Chirstmas was great. Hope yours was too. Until next year. It will be here before you know it.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Our stockings all hung by the Chimmny with care.....

2008-12-15T12:13:00.000-08:00

This year my mom made stockings for us. It has been driving me crazy that our stockings don't match. I have mine from when I was a kid, Matt has his and the kids didn't really have anything. Both Matt and I had our stockings made by our grandma's. I figured the kids needed their grandma to make them theirs. I gave my mom the "but our grandma's made them for us" speech. Not soon after to the drawing board she went. My mom always has great ideas in her head it is just getting them out that is the hard part. :) This time she did a really good job. I am very happy with the way they turned out. Matt's isn't done yet and the kids names aren't on But I am happy with what we have to put on our first mantel. Now I have to tell you this is all handmade. My mom didn't even use a pattern. Aunt Jill would be proud. :) Thank you mom for all your hard work. Just remember your not done though Matt and I are still missing ours. I'm hopping we will get more than cole this year so we need a stocking for Santa to fill.

My mom wraped them up and put small gifts in then and the kids opened them.

Jonathan (snowman) Katelyn (baby Jesus) Braden (Santa)

We are missing two so I will have to to an update to the post so you can see all five hung up with names and all.

Brea Nativity

2008-12-07T10:15:00.000-08:00

Last night we went to the Brea Nativity. They have been doing this for the past 6 years I think and this was the first time we attended. They have live animals and they act out the birth of Jesus. There was music playing and a sweet spirit. My kids sat in the front row by themselves and were very well behaved. They sat through the entire show without us by their side. They always put this on the first weekend of December so if you were unable to attend this year you should put it on you calender for next year. I love this season and all the love that surrounds it.

Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem

Joseph, Mary and Baby Jesus in the stable

Everyone that traveled so far to meet the Savior of the world.

Beginning of the Holidays

2008-12-01T10:59:00.000-08:00

We ended the month of November with lots of activities with family and friends. First we had Andrews 6th birthday at Chuck-E-Cheese. What kid doesn't like that place Then went rock climbing with Denise, Ryan, Liz and Scott. That was so fun. I can't wait to do that one again. It was a great workout. Matt was sore for 3 days. Fun activity. Then it was Thanksgiving. Jonathan celebrated at school with a Thanksgiving Feast that he really enjoyed. After the feast The younger kids and I waited out front for Joanthan to get out of School. Katelyn found a pile of leaves and played in them. Throwing leaves all in the air. We had Thanksgiving at our house this year with the Dwelley Family. We had a great turn out and an even better dinner. No pictures of that night I was to busy in the kitchen and Matt didn't take any. My fault though I never asked him. So after Thanksgiving Denise and I did our Annual Black Friday shopping. We were out in front of Walmart at 12:30 am. Let me tell you it was way cold. I got most of my shopping done in one day so that was nice. Saturday we got all our Christmas stuff out and decorated. Then we headed off to the Mall to see Santa. Braden was a little scared at first. But, as soon as Santa gave him a sucker he was OK for the picture. Santa even let him pull on his beard to show him it was real. We love our Mall Santa he is so real looking. We are ready for the Holidays are you? Merry Christmas. Hope this season brings you and your family lots of memories.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Our adventures in Joshua Tree

2008-11-17T10:41:00.000-08:00

We just got home from an amazing camping trip that I would highly recommend to anyone that likes the outdoors. This past weekend we went camping in Joshua Tree with Liz, Scott, Charlo and liz's brother and sister. We brought two of my young women with us to, Megan and Taryn. They were our babysitters so we could go on hikes without the little ones. That was a big help. Our first night was a little rough. It was very windy. Our tent fell on me all night long. Wind blew anything loose all around. So in morning Matt fixed our problem for a better night sleep the next night. We got up bright and early and had breakfast burritos. Then set off to our first adventure Skull rock. It was a nice little hike. The kids climbed on all the rocks. When we got back from that hike we had lunch and took a small nap. Then we got up and set off to our big kid rock climb. We had our sights set for Eagle rock. We really wanted to get to the top of that one. So we started a race to see who could get to the top first. Matt, Me and Jonathan against Scott, liz and Kenny. On our way up which was pretty hard we got stuck at a spot that Matt said we could go any more. By that time the other group caught up to us. I decided to try on my own to jump the gap and landed on my shin and knee. Needless to say I am not 14 anymore and got my 28 year old butt hurt ( I have a pretty good bump on my shin) but not hurt enough to stop the hike. After that jump we decided we probably weren't going to make it to the top so we set out to explore the other rocks. It was a lot of fun. Jonathan was having fun following the guys. Jumpig around. I surprised to say he didn't get hurt hte entire trip. We headed back to camp as it started getting dark we had to get dinner started before it got too dark. Where we were camped at the kids had so much to explore while we were cooking and cleaning that they didn't mind just staying at camp. For dinner we had chicken chowder with camp fire bisquets and hot dogs. Yummy. After dinner we sat around the camp fire and played games told stories and made smores. My family hit the sack at about 9:00. We were tired from the long day. Next morning we had breakfast and started cleaning up camp. we had another place we wanted to explore before we went home. The best part of the trip was being able to do sacrament out there in nature. It was very quiet and beautiful. One of my favorite experience during the trip. After sacrament we set off to explore some caves we found. The caves were really neat. We climbed out of the caves through some small holes. The kids were the first out. Katelyn and Diana were at the top waiting for us when a bee sat on Katelyn's back. Diana got it off and we were on our way to find another cave when out of no where Katelyn started to scream and rip her pants off underwear and all. Matt was yelling at her to put her pants back on while I got to her having the feeling the bee stung her. So I helped her take her pants off when I saw the bee fly out of her pants and the stinger just under her butt cheek. Mommy saved the day getting the stinger out without any juice getting into the hole. I carried her to the car to ice her butt. That was the end of our adventure. Katelyn was in no condition to hike anymore and we had to head home. Not until we got out of Joshua Tree did we here anything about the fires near our house. So we came from camping to be home where it smelt like camp. I have to say this was one of my favorite camping trips. The weather was perfect the surroundings were beautiful. I could not have asked for a better vacation. Now that I am home I am a little sore from my fall but glad for the memories. Now its time for clean up. Enjoy the pictures. It is going to make you want to join us next time.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Commissioned Watercolor Portrait GIVEAWAY!!!!

2008-11-17T10:40:00.000-08:00

Commissioned Watercolor Portrait GIVEAWAY!!!!

2008-11-13T10:42:00.000-08:00

Jonathan had Monday and Tuesday off of school so we decided to go to a museum. We ended up going to the Zimmer museum in LA. We met some friends from church there and the kids just played. They had a lot of fun stuff there I don't have a picture of Jonathan but his favorite thing there was this water table. They were able to put up walls to make a maze for the boats to go through. He was glued to that table. I did get some shots of Braden and his friend Matthew playing at it.

They had a bunch of different imagination play stations. They had an ambulance and a doctor station that Katelyn loved. I had a broken arm that Katelyn had to fix up for me. It was nice just relaxing on the table. I had a mommy break while the doctor worked on me.

They had half of an airplane there too. They could pretend to fly it. They didn't get a chance to be the pilot. There were too many kids there taking their own turns. It was fun but they sat there like good little passengers.

Another fun thing they had there was a huge pinball machine. They had to put two coins in each slot for it to work. Once they did balls went flying. Braden loved that.

They had lots of other fun stuff there that I didn't get pictures of. The bigger kids really liked the restaurant. They took orders made play food. Katelyn was a really good customer. She would order and they would bring it to her. It was a very successful day. The kids had fun I had fun. I love going to museums. I don't think I would have had as much fun it Denise wouldn't have came. She helped me keep an eye on the kids. They all ran in different directions. Thanks Denise for joining in our fun.

It makes me feel a little bit like Joseph

2008-11-07T16:40:00.000-08:00

To think this is what is has come to. Police in front of our temple to calm the angry mob.

Since prop 8 has passes we as latter day saints have felt the brunt of no on 8 protesters. Seeing them in front of our temple with all there hate breaks my heart. They make it seem like we as a whole hate anyone that is gay or lesbian. A motto I have always lived by "Hate the sin but not the sinner" I have someone in my family that is gay and I love him no matter what. I may not think his choices are right but they are his choices to make. I just don't want there decisions to be put upon my family as the right way to live life. Hearing what people say about our church and especially our beloved prophet President. Monson brings tears to my eyes. If prop 8 had not passed would we have been picketing at there door steps? Telling them how horrible they are? No! We would have come together as a group to decide what to do for our families. I heard some say they would home school their kids or even just move. They say we are the hateful people when they are the ones starting the violence and crude remarks. I love my church, I love my Savior, I love my Prophet. I will always and forever stand for what I believe in. For now the battle is won. I know there will be more ahead and we will have to take a stand. I will proudly do so.

It makes me sad to see this in front of the temple

I know what I stand for and what me and my family fought for these past few months was right. I hope all the hate and protesting dies down and we can go about our lives. I am grateful that I live in this country that gives me the freedom to belong to such a wonderful church.

"I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I know who I am I know Gods plan I'll follow him in faith. I believe in the Savior Jesus Christ, I'll honor his name. I'll so what is right I'll follow His light. His truth I will proclaim."

Not so sexy Edward

2008-11-06T10:12:00.000-08:00

This is a good spoof of the Twilight movie. They even look like the real characters in the movie. Watch it and it will put a smile on your face. It did for me.

I put them to work

2008-11-03T22:03:00.000-08:00

I have been volunteering when I can to help out with the Yes on 8 Campaign. Today was the last day for me to be able to hold a sign on the corner. I didn't have a baby sitter so I decided to just bring the kids. They were so stinking cute. They were waving their signs yelling yes on 8. People would honk their horns and give is a thumbs up sign. If a car was sitting by the light waiting for it to turn green Katelyn would be yelling at their window "yes on 8, yes on 8" Then Braden would follow with the same chant. A few people would give the thumbs down sign. Jonathan came running up to me, "mommy mommy he gave me the thumbs down for yes on 8." My response was, "that's because he thinks its OK for a boy and a boy to get married." Jonathan's response, "ewwwwwww gross. Yes on 8" s he ran back to his spot. It was a fun few hours. Me and my kids did our part to help protect families. I hope you all have too. This is so important for the future of our children. I know Heavenly Father is with us and if things don't go as we wish he will always be there for us to get through the hard times. Don't forget to get out and vote.

YES ON 8

Halloween and a Hoogee Hike

2008-11-02T18:01:00.000-08:00

Halloween week was so jam packed I am glad it is over. The kids had a tone of fun at our ward Trunk or treat on Thursday. Then Friday on Halloween Jonathan's a class had a party. It was also career day. Jonathan was lucky enough to have his daddy come and show his friends what he does for work. Here is a picture of Jonathan and some of his friends. These 4 boys became fast friends on the first day of school.

Then that night we went to the Sanders house and did our trick-or-treating. They had a fun set up in there front yard. They had Halloween cartoons playing on a projector on there garage. We had yummy food and great company. I think it was a very successful night.

Super Mario and Indiana Jones. Jonathan always has fun with Noah. It is funny because Noah doesn't always remember Jonathan's name so he calls him best friend. :)

Courtney swears these two are going to get married. They are pretty cute together.

Katelyn is a glitter witch I sprayed her hair black she loved it.

I was a last minute hippy thanks to my mom.

When we got home the kids and I went through their candy. They picked out a small bag of candy they wanted to keep. With the rest we put it in a big witch Calderon and left it there for the Pumpkin King to come and take. He comes to our house and leaves a small gift for each kid in place of their candy. They were way excited to wake up and see what they got. I am just glad the candy is away. We don't need anymore cavities in this house.

We got to bed pretty late then had to be up at 5:30am to get ready for our hike. I haven't been to Hoogee's in like 13 14 years. It brought back a tone of great memories that I was able to share with my family. We even planned our own camping trip while up there. we had so much fun.

Before we started the hike.

Maybe the only time he walked on his own for a long period of time.

At the camp site. The kids loved this spot. It was there own little fort. I can remember me and my cousins trying to camp out here. We were a bit away from the rest of the family. I know I chickened out and ended up back in my safe tent. :)

They are trying to build a pretend fire. Jonathan, Katelyn and Braden are collecting the wood.

I went down to the water to find some salamanders like old times. I remember them being easier to find. I could only find two. They are so easy to catch. Jonathan was excited to hold one.

Here is our group.

The kids were troopers. It is a round trip 5 mile hike. Jonathan made it all the way there and back with not much of a complaint. Katelyn made it there and 3/4 of the way back before some one had to carry her for a bit. Braden he was kind of a pain he sat on Papa's shoulders most of the way up and in Matt or my arms the way back. I had a little accident while holding Braden on the way back I slipped on a rock while crossing the water. I slipped on a rock with Braden headed right for a big rock. I turned and fell on my elbow. I took a pretty hard hit my arm is pretty sore still. On the way back Jonathan walked through the water without a thought of keeping dry. He kept telling us he was a real hiker walking through the water. All in all it was a great family day. We were even talking about doing a back pack trip this spring. We will make it an annual thing just like we use to. I think we will call it, "The Annual Memorial to Uncle Ron Hoogee backpacking trip" Who is up for it?

GROSGRAIN MINI STORE OPENING NOVEMBER 6!!!! AND BIG PREVIEW GIVEAWAY!!!!

2008-10-29T18:49:00.000-07:00

GROSGRAIN MINI STORE OPENING NOVEMBER 6!!!! AND BIG PREVIEW GIVEAWAY!!!!

These skirts are so cute. I love the idea of reversable. I need to start sewing.

Marie-Therese Gown GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

2008-10-24T13:20:00.000-07:00

Marie-Therese Gown GIVEAWAY !!!!!!! (click to go to blog)

This dress is beautiful. Katelyn would love to dress as Marie-Therese for Halloween. Thanks to friends that can find cool blogs. I love this one. She is so does great things.

More from our fun month of October

2008-10-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

Jonathan did his first Jog-A-Thon. I was able to help and count laps. It brought back memories of my own jog-a thons. Here are some pictures from that day Jonathan ran 33 laps. he had one of the top lap numbers of his class. That's my boy. :) Well maybe I pushed him a little. I am very competitive. I didn't get any pictures of him running. I was busy counting laps.

This Saturday we had a Halloween party. Liz, Denise and I planned it. We had so much fun. We played games and just hung out. I think It was a success. I can't wait until next years party.

Thanks to everyone that came. I hope you all had as much fun as I did.

The beginning of our October Adventures

2008-10-15T10:20:00.000-07:00

Saturday was our official start for our October activities. We started the Day off and went to Try-City park for their annual Heritage something or other. I can't remember what it is called. we invited Liz, Scott and Charlotte to join in the fun. Liz is always thinking of all the fun activities it was my turn. She needed a break. :) They had a bunch of old cars that the guys loved drooling over. Each letting us know which was there dream car. The kids favorite was the old fire truck. They got to climb in it and pretend to drive it. (FYI The kids went to a face painting booth Jonathan has a spider on his cheek Katelyn has a butterfly)

Then we walked around to all the booths. Liz and I both got a free 10 min massage. HEAVEN. Jonathan signed up for baseball. Can't wait for that to start. Next to the baseball booth was a Star Wars booth. All these guys were dressed up very real looking I might add with R2D2 Rolling around. The kids loved him they would tell him to do something and he would do it. They would tell him to play music so they could dance and he would. It was fun to watch them.

To end our day at the park we went to the craft area. I got a cool hand made bowl out of wood, Jonathan got a marshmallow gun and Katelyn got an umbrella. We went home put the small ones down for a nap.

After naps our next stop was the pumpkin farm. I saw it on the Alex and Courtney's blog so I thought I would check it out. I highly recommend this farm. We didn't get our pumpkins there but we had fun and enjoyed all the fun things there was to do there.

First we walked around the patch the kids went over to the scarecrow and took pictures Jonathan thought it was funny that it had someones pants on.

Next we did the wagon ride. while on the wagon they make a stop by the pumpkin canon. Jonathan go to push the button that launched the pumpkin to the target that was about 200 yards away. Jonathan was so excited to be able to do that. You can see the remote in his hand.

Then we were off to the petting zoo. I think Charlotte had the most fun. She couldn't get enough of the animals. I got attacked by one goat that wanted the food I had for them. The kids enjoyed it that is all that matters. The final thing we did at the farm was the corn maze. That was fun. Matt had Jonathan hide in the corn and jump out and scare me. Instead of scaring me he scared a lady that had a 3 or 4 month old baby in her arms as the corn stalk broke onto her. That went over real well. Other than that the maze was fun. They had an area that had crafts and games for the kids that we weren't able to get to because of time. They close really early that is the only bad thing.

We ended our day going to Smart and Final. We bought 5 pumpkins only $3.50 each what a deal.

How do I look????

2008-10-07T21:32:00.000-07:00

I went and got my hair chopped off today. Liz referred me to a great hair stylist in Whittier at Paloma & Friends. I highly recommend them. Erika did my hair and I could not be happier. I love it. Liz went with me so I had someone to chat with. Then we went out to dinner to Crepes & Grapes. Yummy. I want to take Matt there. So Let me know what you think about my new hair cut. Matt likes it that's all that matters. :)

BEFORE (sorry so blurry)

AFTER

Katelyn's Curls

2008-10-05T16:45:00.001-07:00

It has been a while since my last post. We really have been doing a lot. Scott and Liz are back in California. We have been doing a lot of fun things with them I just never remember my camera. I know I am a bad mom. So last night Katelyn and I had some mommy daughter fun. I put curlers in her hair. She was so excited. She couldn't wait to wake up in the morning and take them out so she could see it. This is the before picture.

Katelyn looks funny in this picture.

My cosmetology skills. I knew it would come in handy someday. :)

This morning we took out the curlers. She looks like Shirley Temple. We had fun that's all that counts. Definitely not a going out hair style. Here are here after pictures.

From the back.

From the side

This is my favorite picture. I think she looks so cute. My little Curly Sue.

Candace this made me think of you and all the times your mom put curlers in your hair. One of my childhood memories. I can remember having my mom put them in my hair one night. My hair turned out the same way as Katelyn's.

Something that makes me smile

2008-09-18T08:31:00.000-07:00

I am taking Tiffany's lead and writing about one of many things that makes me happy.

Scrapbooking with friends.

I love the group I get to scrapbook with. Whether it is with friends at church, my family or my Downey friends. I love it. My cousin that I don't see to often (both our faults we live so close) came. Catching up and just laughing. It makes you realize how important family and friends are. My husband is so sweet for giving me a day every now and then to do what I love to do without the kids. Girl time is soooooo important. This is just a small thank you to all those that came on Saturday. You put a smile on my face. I don't know about you but I had a great day. Until the next scrapbook day. I am counting down the days. Oct. 25th can't come soon enough.

Does Motherhood Get Any Easier??????

2008-09-10T00:20:00.000-07:00

I swear just when I think my kids have done it all they surprise me with another. Its the second day of school. We were getting ready for school. I was upstairs doing my hair, the kids were all ready. I asked Jonathan to go to my car (which I though was in the garage) and get his snack bag out so I could pack it for him. He goes to the garage and realizes the car isn't in there. Instead of telling me he and Katelyn open the garage and go out to see if it was parked in the street. To his surprise it was not. He thinks his dad has taken it to work. Again instead of telling me this he and Katelyn hop on their bike and scooter then decide to go to dads work themselves. Are you kidding me. What 4 and 5 year old does that? Mine. They had gotten around the corner when a lady walking her dog spotted them and yelled at them to get back in there house and where was their mommy. Mean while I am upstairs and I hear kids outside my window I have a feeling to check on my little ones and to my surprise I see Jonathan riding up on his bike. This lady gives me an ear full making me feel worse than I already did. Thank heavens for that Lady because who knows how far they would have gone or if they would have gotten hurt. They could have gotten lost. Heck they are related to me and if you know me at all. I got lost going to my grandma's at 15 and she lived 10 min away from us. I love my kids to death but man they are going to put me in the crazy house. I sat down with them both and let them know they are not allowed outside of the house with out me or their dad. Jonathan got his bike taken away for a week. He insisted he could have gotten to his dads work. So I ask again does it get any easier?

Oh to be 5 again

2008-09-03T16:24:00.000-07:00

Jonathan Started school on Tuesday. His first day of Kindergarten. My little boy is growing up. The morning started off really good. He Got up and got ready without fighting. I made breakfast and packed his snack for the day. Then headed off to school. I love 9:30 school. It makes it so much easier to get me and the kids ready. Next year will be the year I dread.

Just before I got the kids in the car I had Jonathan take a picture. I told him there were going to be a lot of pictures today so to get use to it.

Once we go to school I got him and the kids out of the car and we headed off to his class. He was just too cute I had to get a picture of him. And no that is not a purse it is his snack bag.

Once we got to his room I got a picture of him by his door. We went in he pit his bag on a hook and off we went to explore his class.

He met a new friend the day of the meet and greet last week. His name is Andrew (easy for him to remember) They have been buddies ever since.

He was a little timid at first. I think he was a bit overwhelmed. He has a mixture of his mom and dad in him. He loves people but gets a little overwhelmed at first with all the new people and surroundings. He didn't want me to leave. But I know my little boy I new he would be fine once I left. I do have to say saying goodbye to him I almost cried. I had to use all my self control to hold it in. But I left him there on the color mat to begin his first day.

After school we waited by the gate for him. He is the third one back. Look at my big boy.

Once we got in the car he was all excited to tell me what he did that day. That is one of the first things we do when ever he came home from pre-school. Our tradition goes on.

The worst part of the first couple of days was that the entire time i have thought that school started at 9:50. Well today the 2nd day of school when I got there at 9:40 (thinking I was early) no one was there. My poor boy was already late for school on the 2nd day. I felt like an idiot when I had to bring him in through the office. Man I am really loosing it. So he will start the day off right tomorrow we will be at school on time from now on. Man I need to get it together.

And the winner is........ Danielle

2008-08-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am the winner of the worst mom award. Jonathan has some cavities and had to get a bunch dental work done today. We didn't have the money so we had to postpone it until we got the funds. We waited a bit to long. Today he had to get emergency dental work done because one of his teeth got really bad. So bad they had to pull it out and put a spacer in his mouth. I feel so awful because it is mostly my fault. As a mom it is my responsibility to make sure he takes care of his teeth and I slacked. I couldn't sleep last night because I felt so bad. I shouldn't even be posting this. Who shouts out to the bogging world there parenting mistakes. I am an idiot. So to all you mom's and soon to be mom's. Make sure you drink your milk when you are pregnant, your kids get the fluoride vitamins they need. And YOU brush and floss there teeth for them. That is one thing they told me to do. This is a depressing blog for me. Because I feel really bad for my little guy. But we all learn from our mistakes. I know I sure have.

This is his lip @ 1:30 not so bad.

This is the picture of Jonathan's lip @ 7:30 (I think it is getting more swollen)

Our new place

2008-08-21T23:24:00.000-07:00

I finally have my house some what organized. I still have to paint the kitchen and the living room. Other than that we are pretty settled in. So, here are some pictures of our new place.

Our living room

This is the other half of the living room above is the office area.

Our Dinning room that is attached to the kitchen. It is one big open space. Forgive the boarder. It will soon be down and painted,

Our kitchen. I just love it. There is so much space. I can cook without running out of room.

This is our half bath on the main level. I know the wallpaper is awful. But, after the 4 hour wallpaper removal job Matt did in the kitchen. I decided I could live with it. It grows on ya.

These are one of the many stairs in the house. These lead up to the bedrooms.

Upstairs. This is the kids bathroom.

Two different pictures of our Bedroom. Very plain still I have some work to do in there. We have our own bathroom and a walk in closet. It is the door with the mirror on it. More than enough room for mine and Matt's stuff.

Jonathan and Braden's room

Katelyn's room. The headboard and poka dots were Missa's idea. I think it turned out really cute. I still have a few more thing that need to go in her room. Other than that it is pretty much done.

Mommy wow I'm a big kid now.

2008-08-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Braden is now in the potty training stage of his life. All by himself. He decided he wanted to wear big boy underwear and he has the last 24 hrs. besides bed time. We even took a trip to Wal-mart where he told me he had to go pee pee before he went in his pants. I am a mom of bribery so when he goes potty he gets pee pee candy. It has worked really well with the other two. So with my jar full of smarties we started our potty training adventure. I still can not believe how big my baby is getting.

These are the steps he takes in his potty training adventure:

1st he goes to the potty. Backwards I don't want to get pee everywhere.

2nd with a big smile on his face he says, "mommy pee pee canies"

Then I get him his treat for being a big boy. My favorite part of his potty training is the song I get to hear when he gets his candy. To the tune of "La cucaracha" it goes like this "Pee pee canies,pee pee canies" Puts a smile on my face every time and I can't help but join in with him in all his excitement.

With his elmo undies on he runs around the house till the next time he feel he has to go. Or until he wants another pee pee candy. Which ever comes first. I am so proud of you Braden your a big boy now.

Happy birhtday Braden!!!

2008-08-17T19:38:00.000-07:00

Braden has been two now for a few weeks. Unfortunately we weren't able to celebrate it until Saturday with our family and friends. Moving has been a nightmare. But we got most of the stuff in the house and things where they are supposed be. As for the party, it was a great day. The kids had fun and so did the adults. Braden got lots of presents and loved his cake. We did a dinosaur party. The dinosaurs on his cake made noises. He loved it. When we sang Happy Birthday to him he joined in and sang with us. It was really cute. I still can't believe how big he is getting. My baby is two. Time sure does fly.

Braden and one of his friends from church.

So cute blowing out his candle's.

He actually did really well opening his presents. The cards with money in them made me laugh because he would throw the money out and look at the card with amazement. The card was the best part of the gift to him.

Thank you Auntie and Ryan for my bike I love it.

I have fallen in love with another man......

2008-08-13T23:59:00.000-07:00

I have to say I was very sceptical at first. But finally joined in on all the fuss. I got book number one of the Twilight series on the 2nd. I started reading it that Monday. I could not put it down. Edward is the man of my dreams. :) I now know why so many women love the series. I finished #1 Late Wednesday night. I knew Denise was going to be over on Friday so I had her bring book #2 and 3. I finished #3 on Tuesday and can't wait for Denise to finish breaking dawn. The family is going to be at my house on Saturday so I gave her that deadline to be done. I still can't believe I read three 500+ page books in 10 days. I wish I would have read them before the book release so I could have joined in on all the fun that everyone had. I told Denise we have to go see the first showing of the movie in December. I can not wait. So, to all those sceptics out there that think the book might be a little weird because it is about vampires. READ IT!!! You will not be sorry. This is by far one of the best books I have ever read. We had young women's at our leaders house a few nights before the release of book 4. Her daughter was making shirts for the slumber party they went to at the book store. There shirts said, "All I want is a BITE from Edward" I now know what they mean. I can't wait for book #4 Hurry up Denise I'm having Edward withdrawals.

Our own little grace

2008-08-12T23:32:00.000-07:00

This evening we decided to go to picnic in the park. Our ward does it like twice a month in the summer. It is normally a lot of fun. The kids play and the adults talk. Well, as we are walking to the park through the parking lot, which has a slight hill, Katelyn ran to catch up with us and tripped and fell face first on the gravel. Her feet flew over her head as she skidded on her face. Major road rash for her. She was a trooper. Matt and I decided I should take her to the doctors for stitches. So she and I set off to the after hours care to get all stitched up. We got there at about 7:50 and were out and on the road at 10:00 two hours. man was it long. I guess they try not to do stitches anymore if the cut isn't to big. They used dermalast (something like that) a glue to hold it together. It doesn't leave as bad of a scar as stitches do. Katelyn did really well I am proud of her. She was really good for the doctor. She let him do all that he needed. She can be a really big girl when she needs to. Her and Jonathan are going to have matching scars. Braden is going to be jealous. Maybe he is going to be next. He doesn't want to be left out. Here are some pictures of her cuts.

Her cut that had to get glued together

Katelyn's road rash on her cheek

The doctor put neosporin (???Spelling??? I know uncle Ron) around the cut so the glue wouldn't get all over her face. He had gloves on and when he went to lift his hands off her chin he was stuck. Katelyn thought that was pretty funny.

Quick note

2008-08-04T21:45:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know we are in the process of moving. Yeah for the Dwelley family. As soon as I get some of these boxes out of my house and i find my camera and it looks nice in this place I will post some pictures. We love it here. This was a great move for us. You'll get pictures Candace. Soon I promise.