The Mini Mann Clan

It can't be January!

2012-01-12T17:06:00.000-07:00

I am a terrible blogger. Such a long time goes between updates. I am just feeling boring, huge and lazy lately. Not really much to blog about. But enjoy some pics of our cute little girl!

Just chilling on the couch and her mama hippo. An actual real smile.... very hard to get these days.

Opening Christmas gifts.

Aileah loves to bring us the camera and tell us to take a picture of her. Then she does this cheesy smile as she says, "Cheese... Queso!" Funny little thing!

In her Christmas dress. She is looking way too grown up these days.

Cuddling only a few of her toys that fill her bed. Isn't she cute when she's sleeping?!

Our adventures lately

2011-11-26T22:58:00.000-07:00

I am a terrible blogger, I know. Life has been keeping us busy. Tom took some time off of work so we could go on a mini vacation. I loved spending time with him. I really miss him while he is gone all day. I'm so looking forward to the day he is done with school. That's only like 2 1/2 years away. Sigh.

We had a second ultrasound. Elijah seems to be growing big and strong. I can't believe I am 7 months already. I am anxious to meet this little Mann. I am also worried about how Aileah will do with him and sharing my attention, how I will handle 2 kids on my own, ..... the list goes on and on. I know if I rely on the Lord, He will give me the strength to do all the the things I need to.

Here are some pictures from our most recent adventures.....

At Zoo Boise. Aileah was more interested in all the play areas than in the animals. Here is a cool slide... the real size of a giraffe.

She loved the penguins.

She loves the carousel!

Aileah and Mommy at the pumpkin patch.

Aileah and Daddy at the corn maze.

Visiting Grandma and Grandpa Mann

Time to play catch-up

2011-10-07T23:19:00.000-06:00

I have good intentions but sometimes life gets in the way. I need to make time to update my blog more often. I LOVE fall!!!!! We have been trying to enjoy the beautiful weather before the dreadful winter. Enjoy some pics of our cutie pie! Ok, it is a ton of pictures. Be prepared for a picture overload!
Also..... We found out we are having a BOY!!!!! I need to get the ultrasound pics uploaded.... something to look forward to, my few readers.

We went to the zoo. Aileah walked the whole time...no stroller for her!

Enjoying a ride on the carousel. This the the face she makes when she says, "Smile".

Riding the "horse" at the zoo.

Aileah's first real haircut. We cut an inch off. Luckily, she still has some curls.

Aileah got a big girl bed. She had a rough couple of nights... but is doing really well with it now!

Digging for bones at the Dinosaur Museum. She loved it!

Daddy wanted to play too. Aren't they so cute?!

Throwing rocks into the water at Bridal Veil Falls. She LOVES the mountains!

Enjoying the canyon.

Aunt T came to visit from Georgia. We only see her about once a year. Aileah LOVES her and had so much fun playing with her. Here she is getting ready to give T a kiss.

First time ice skating. She absolutely LOVED it. She was so excited.

She wasnt' a big fan of the walker. After awhile she said, "Here you go, mommy." I guess I looked like I needed it. What a thoughtful girl!

She loved spinning with T. She loved "falling" even more. She's been asking to go ice skating almost everyday since.

I love these two so much!

Friday

2011-09-02T23:41:00.000-06:00

I am so excited for Fall I can hardly stand it! Took this pic back in 2008. LOVE fall!

I am actually posting a Photo on Friday?! (We won't talk about the fact that it is 11:38 pm)

I'm late ...again

2011-08-28T06:26:00.000-06:00

I know it is Sunday.... but here is the Photo Friday pic. I took this pic in 2008, on a trip to Portland. I loved how it turned out.

Aileah lately

2011-08-20T08:15:00.002-06:00

It seems like Aileah is growing up so fast and changing every day! Here's a little catch up.

Aileah's favorite shows to watch

Special Agent Oso

Caillou

Aileah's favorite movies. She asks to watch at least one of these every day.

Despicable Me

Tangled

Aileah loves to sing. Her favorite songs right now?
*Just The Way You Are- Bruno Mars
*Firework- Katy Perry
*Hey, Soul Sister- Train

Aileah is talking like crazy. She wakes up in the morning talking and sometimes falls asleep talking.
Some of her most commonly used phrases:
"Let's get outta here." She says this when she is bored and wants to leave stores.
"I need kisses" and "You need kisses?" This is pretty adorable.
"I so funny!"
"Everything ok?"
One evening I was getting dinner ready and feeling awful. (When I am sick I get weepy.) Aileah came into the kitchen and asked me if I was ok. Through my tears, I told her I was ok just sick. She went to her room and got her big panda bear for me to cuddle. What a sweet girl!

Some of Aileah's other favorite things:

Emptying her bed of all the toys she likes to sleep with. Here she is laying on the couch surrounded by her toys.

Being outside. Here she is talking to a worm. She was saying, "Don't worry, worm. It's just fireworks."

Playing in water. Little water baby!

Riding any rides. She loves the train that goes around the Provo Mall, the Ice Cream truck at Wal-Mart, and anything at Chuck E. Cheese's.

I can't believe how fast she is growing up. Even though money is tight, I am grateful to be able to be at home with her so I don't miss a thing!

It's Friday again!

2011-08-20T06:33:00.000-06:00

This is an old shot from one of our hikes.... back before Aileah :)
But I still like it.

Another photo Friday

2011-08-12T21:04:00.000-06:00

I took this pic in our front yard on Aileah's birthday. I spottted this perfect tiny leaf in our grass.

Photo Friday

2011-08-05T15:54:00.000-06:00

I know... I am a terrible blogger. Sometimes, I just don't feel like enough is going on to blog about . My sister, Sheri, informed me yesterday, that it had been 5 weeks since I updated our blog. So... in an effort to blog (at least something) more often I decided to start posting a picture I have taken every Friday. I enjoy photography, although I have LOTS to learn. I hope you enjoy this new addition to my blog.

Water lily taken at Thanksgiving Point gardens. I like the contrast between the flower and the background.

You make me smile

2011-08-05T15:49:00.000-06:00

I love my little family! I am grateful to be a mom and a wife! How can you not smile when you see this little face looking back at you?

Showing off her sweet fashion sense! It's 95 degrees out? Furry boots are the best choice!

Action shot. Running girl!

We set up her pool. If the tree is spraying, she would just stand there and drink. Silly!

Another reason to smile! Baby #2 will be here around Feb. 14th. Whoo hoo!
Smiling through the morning sickness!

Our summer so far

2011-06-25T15:56:00.000-06:00

Aileah and Daddy went swimming. Third times a charm... she loved it! I got kicked out of the pool area cuz I was in my street clothes. Dumb rec rules!

She couldn't decide which was more fun( with the fish or without).

We went to Orem Summerfest. Aileah sat in a firetruck, a helicopter, and an ambulance. She was in heaven!

She loved the rides at the carnival. Especially the inflated slide. She would have stayed there all day, if we'd have let her.
Mean Mom and Dad!

We ended the night with the fireworks display. Aileah loved it!

Happy Birthday!!!!

2011-06-05T23:15:00.000-06:00

My baby turned two yesterday! I know... it is hard to believe! Last year I failed as a Mom and didn't really do anything for her birthday. I decided to go all out this year. I was incredibly stressed about the party (well really the cake) but it seemed to have turned out really well. I decided to try to be crafty. I made most of the decorations for the party. I am grateful to all who came to celebrate with us! Isn't she adorable?!

Centerpieces

One of the 7 tissue paper pom poms I made.

The cake that caused me so much stress.

She was not interested in opening gifts....

she'd much rather be swinging! She didn't eat any cake either, she was too busy sliding!

Here she is trying out one of her gifts from Mom and Dad. Doesn't she look so grown up?

Daddy and I love you very much, Aileah! I am so grateful that I get to be your Mom. I pray that I can be a better mom for you! Thanks for being such a funny, sweet, happy girl! Happy 2nd Birthday, Baby!

Recent, and not so recent, happenings (lots of pics!)

2011-05-29T22:54:00.000-06:00

On Friday we took a trip up to Heber to spend A Day Out with Thomas. Aileah loves the mountains and trains... so we thought it was the perfect activity! We all had a ball (although Aileah doesn't really show it in the pictures.)

Aileah and Daddy after our ride.

Kisses from Mom while waiting to board Thomas

Waiting for our ride to start!

Singing and showing off her sweet James tattoo

All tuckered out after a fun filled day!

We went to Thanksgiving Point quite awhile ago. Aileah LOVES animals.

She was feeding the goats, when one bit her finger. She still talks about it... and it was a couple months ago.

Easter egg hunt

Aileah loves the mountains, water and rocks!

She really didn't enjoy coloring eggs too much.

Those are a few of our adventures lately. I am so grateful that it is Spring! And although it has been a really wet season so far.... I am excited for more adventures!

Aileah,world's cutest girl!!!!

2011-05-14T18:29:00.001-06:00

My baby is growing up! It is happening faster than I would like... make it slow down, please! Aileah is beautiful and has a beautiful personality to go with it. Here are some of her new developments:
*She LOVES to say prayers. When I ask who is going to pray she always says, "Aileah!"
*She plays on the phone.... she loves to call Mo and Grandpa.
*She says, "Look!" all the time. She is soooo excited to show us what she sees.
*She BEGS to go into stores, apartment buildings, etc. "Mommy, in, please?" So cute (at least the first few times of the day!)
*She sits on her potty (with her pants on) and then wipes herself when she's "done".
*She is talking up a storm. I love to hear her cute little voice.
*She has become quite the little singer! She still loves the song "Hey, Soul Sister". I love to hear her sing!
*She gives great hugs and kisses. For a while there she was our little European baby- a kiss on each cheek and then a peck on the lips. It's pretty much pecks now.
*She tells all the animals in her books she loves them and gives them hugs.
*If we say "ow!" she will check to see if we are ok.
I cannot believe how fast the last almost 2 years have gone by! I am lucky to be blessed with such a great kid!
Just some funny sleep position pics! She does the funniest things to get ready to sleep!

I really should blog...

2011-05-01T09:41:00.000-06:00

I know I need to update this... but BLAH! I feel like I have nothing to share right now. Not that Aileah is any less adorable. But I feel like we haven't really been doing anything lately. Thank goodness spring is peeking out! Now if it would only stay...

A little comparison...

2011-03-14T23:06:00.000-06:00

Here I am at 21 months... the exact age that Aileah is now.

I know it is kinda hard to see me well.

And here is my sweet girl. (No, I don't usually let her run around like this. I took this pic for the comparison.)

Do you think she looks like me? I do. But she is WAY cuter!

Bowling and other adventures

2011-03-05T21:38:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, Tom and I decided to take Aileah to The Living Planet Aquarium. She had a great time... although after a bit she got tired of stopping to look at the fish. She just wanted to climb on the exhibits.

Driving the "boat".

Checking out the upside down jellyfish.

Trying to pet the stingrays!

On Thursday, we went to a new place in Provo. It is the Provo Beach Resort. It has tons of stuff to do. You can play Mini Croquet, bowl, ride a carousel, do the Flowrider, Ropes course, golf simulators, and there are two playgrounds. Everything costs money. We decided to bowl and ride the carousel. Aileah really seemed to enjoy herself! It was fun to watch her.

Aileah's cute bowling shoes!

Aileah, carrying a 6 lb. ball! So strong and independent!

This is what happened when she got bored waiting for her turn.

Aileah likes to do a fake smile these days. Grrr! The carousel only cost $1. She loved it!

The perfect day for it

2011-02-13T16:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was such a nice day! Aileah and I took advantage of the beautiful weather and took a trip to Farm Country at Thanksgiving Point. Since Tom started his new job he has to work 6 am to 4 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Sadly he missed our little trip. It was a hoot to watch Aileah walking around checking out the animals. The cows were very friendly! They stuck their heads out of the fences right near Aileah. It freaked her out a bit. She told them, "No.no. no. no. no." Anytime any of the animals came too close that was her reaction. She was able to feed some goats. She laughed so hard as they licked her hand to get to the corn. And of course.... she loved the wagon ride! (We were being pulled by a "John Deere"). She was asking for cocka-doodle-doo the rest of the day. It was a fun experience for both of us.

Talking to the cow... after it had settled down a bit.

Feeding the goats

Taking a break before we go around the farm again.

Climbing up the BIG slide

Running wild!

I love when we have time to spend as our little family!

Then once Tom got home we decided to enjoy the weather even more. We headed to the park. Aileah had a great time! I love watching her!

Lately

2011-02-05T13:02:00.000-07:00

We have been a bunch of sickies lately. We all had the flu. Aileah caught pink eye. And she is now fighting off a cold. Poor thing! But in between our bouts of sickness we've had some fun!

Aileah enjoying her new Thomas tent and tunnel.

This Mama's got a style all her own!

Looking so grown up. (a before shot)

And the after shot.... I think more spaghetti ended up on her shirt!

Dad is super busy and we don't get to see him much. Aileah is so cuddly with him now!

And here I am... I hate my pics but this one isn't as terrible as most!

Cousins

2011-01-23T22:11:00.001-07:00

Saturday, Tom and I had the chance to babysit our newest nephew, Ryan. We got a taste of what it would be like to have two kids. All I can say is wow! Ryan was pretty calm... but it sure does keep you busy! It was fun to watch him and see Aileah interact with him. She was pretty cute. She kept saying, "Baby. Aw!" Someday she will make a great big sister. But for now she will be a great cousin!

A little bit blurry... but I caught a smile!

Aileah was talking up a storm to Ryan

Kisses for Ryan

Aileah's new favorite way to "sit" on the couch! Funny girl.

I will trust in the Lord with all my heart

2011-01-19T23:06:00.000-07:00

About two months ago, Tom and I were asked to speak in church. I was given the topic "Trusting in the Lord's Timetable". I took most of my ideas from Elder Dallin H. Oaks talk, Timing. That talk has been on my mind for almost a week now. I hope I can put into words the things I have been thinking and feeling this week.
In his talk Elder Oaks said,
"Faith means trust—trust in God’s will, trust in His way of doing things, and trust in His timetable. We should not try to impose our timetable on His. As Elder Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has said:
'The issue for us is trusting God enough to trust also His timing. If we can truly believe He has our welfare at heart, may we not let His plans unfold as He thinks best? The same is true with the second coming and with all those matters wherein our faith needs to include faith in the Lord’s timing for us personally, not just in His overall plans and purposes.'
Indeed, we cannot have true faith in the Lord without also having complete trust in the Lord’s will and in the Lord’s timing."

I love that definition of faith. It is simple and direct. It is knowing that the Lord has a plan for me and being able to accept that plan and the timeline that comes with it. It makes me think, how I handle trials or disappointments when they arise? How can I do better?

Elder Oaks goes on to say,
"Faith and trust in the Lord give us the strength to accept and persist, whatever happens in our lives. I did not know why I received a “no” answer to my prayers for the recovery of my wife of many years, but the Lord gave me a witness that this was His will, and He gave me the strength to accept it."

This is the part of the talk I have been thinking about the most this week. Like Elder Oaks, I do not know why last Thursday I was given a "no" answer to my prayers of pleading that the Lord would save my pregnancy. I know that He could, if it were His will. I am grateful for Priesthood blessings and prayers of loved ones to help buoy me up and give me comfort and peace at this time. I am grateful to our Heavenly Father for the Brethren in the Quorum of the Twelve. I am grateful for their examples, for their willingness to serve and to share their experiences and testimonies which help strengthen me.

I know that the Lord has a plan for me and my family. I may not always know what that plan is but as long as I put my faith in it, I know that things will work out for the best. I strengthen my resolve to become a better disciple of our Lord so that when hard times comes I will have the strong foundation I need to get continue on and learn from my trials and disappointments.

She just keeps growing!

2011-01-17T22:04:00.000-07:00

My sister, Valerie, took this photo!

I took Aileah to her well baby check-up on Thursday. The doctor is very pleased with her growth and development. She is now almost 24 pounds and is 33 inches tall. She was so brave! She did not cry at all when she got her 2 shots. What a trooper! And she thanked the nurse for her sucker even after she poked her.
On Friday, we took a quick trip to Nevada to visit with Grandma and Grandpa Mann and Uncle Movell. We didn't get to take too many pictures. Grandpa got called into work and Uncle Movell wouldn't be in pictures. Aileah LOVED playing with Grandma's kitty, Melissa. She chased it, laughed at it, and talked to it the entire time it was in the house. It was pretty cute to see. We also visited the Northeastern Nevada Museum while we were in Elko. Aileah loved seeing all the animals... she pointed to many of them and said, "Aw!" She is pretty adorable. She was so much happier on this trip and warmed up to the relatives pretty quickly. She charmed Grandma and Grandpa... and even Movell.

Aileah and Grandma Mann

She is doing lots of new things lately. Here are just a few...
*Turning on faucets. She loves to turn the cold water on by herself while she brushes her teeth.
*Her favorite show is Super Why. It teaches letter recognition and problem solving. Lately she has been pointing out letters. Mostly she points out e,o,i,w, and y. I was shocked the first time she did it!
*She LOVES family hugs! If mom or dad is holding her and the other comes over she grabs us for a group hug!
*She enjoys putting her shoes on by herself. She gets so frustrated if she can't do it by herself... she gets so frustrated if she can't do anything by herself. Little Miss Independent.

It is bittersweet to see her growing up and asserting her independence (which she does pretty frequently). I am so grateful to be her mom. Thank you, Heavenly Father, for allowing me this opportunity to be a mom to such a wonderful, sweet daughter.

Another photo by Valerie!

Squash Casserole

2011-01-01T23:06:00.000-07:00

For Christmas, I made this casserole to take to my parents' house for our family celebration. I got it from a cookbook, The Essential Mormon Cookbook. My sister, Valerie, requested I blog the recipe. So here it is.

Squash Casserole
3 lbs. butternut squash
1/4 C. butter, melted
1/2 C. chopped onion
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
3 eggs, slightly beaten
1/2 C. sour cream
1/2 C. packed brown sugar
1 Tbsp. lemon juice (optional)
1 C. grated cheddar cheese, divided

Cut squash into large chunks. Cook in boiling water until tender (about 20 min.). Drain well. Remove peel and mash. Set aside. In a bowl microwave butter and onion for 2 min. Stir into the squash. In a bowl combine remaining ingredients, using only 1/4 C. of the cheese. Add to squash and stir together. Pour into a greased 2 quart casserole. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean.
Serves 8-10

Result of a meltdown

2010-12-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes mealtime is torture for Aileah (and for me)! I can't even remember what set her off this night... but it was quite a meltdown! She grabbed her hair, smacked her own face, and head banged her booster. It was quite a doozy! I thought the results where pretty funny so I snapped a couple of pics when she had calmed down.

Proof she is actually a very happy baby. She loves giving the baby in the mirror kisses. Isn't she adorable?!

Our little cutie is looking so grown up these days! How lucky am I to be her mom?

Cute visitors

2010-12-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

Finally..... Blogger has decided I can upload pictures again! I had the chance to watch 2 of my nephews while their Mom and Dad went on a long overdue date! Aileah LOVES all her cousins. She was so happy to have visitors! Thanks for letting us watch them Jared and Debbie!

Avi was near the corner... Aileah backed up til she was right in front of him!

Aileah and Itail playing in the kitchen!

I love this pic of Avi! He loved looking out the window!

Cute Itai was also watching the wind blowing !

Our newest nephew, Ryan! Such a cute boy!

The proud big sister, Bella, with her little brother! Stinking cuties!

GRRRRR!

2010-12-06T22:20:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to do a few posts... but blogger isn't letting me upload photos! Anyone else having this problem? It is sooooooo frustrating. Thanks for letting me vent for a second!

Fall Fun!

2010-11-12T21:45:00.000-07:00

We took advantage of the nice Fall weather and played in the leaves for a little bit on Sunday. Tom and I were still getting over the flu.... but we needed the fresh, autumn air. Aileah loved it!!!! Now she tries to pick up leaves all the time. My car is littered with them. She is such an adorable girl. I feel so blessed to be her mom (even if I feel inadequate a lot of the time)! I sure do like her!

a photo shoot giveaway

2010-11-09T13:40:00.000-07:00

I was on facebook earlier today and one of my friends posted a link to see her new family pics. They are cute... and i saw the photographer is doing a giveaway! Go here-www.dahlquistphotography.blogspot.com to check out her work!

She's got personality....

2010-11-03T12:27:00.000-06:00

This is one funny girl! She is quite the character. She makes us laugh every day! We sure like her... even love her! I am happy to be her mommy.

Aileah wanted to put her own headband on. Isn't it pretty?

She likes to wear her headbands as bracelets. Stylin'!!!!

Looking good in Daddy's shoes!

What up?

Wearing Daddy's Peter Pan hat.

Wearing almost all her headband/ bracelets. She was walking around the house like this. :)

What do you do when you can't decide what to drink?
Drink them both!

I was trying to catch her angry eyebrows. She likes to give dirty looks these days. She usually follows them up with a smile and a laugh. What a silly girl!

Pickin' Pumpkins

2010-10-17T15:18:00.000-06:00

We decided to take a trip to the pumpkin patch today. I thought Aileah would be in a good mood... since she had just woken up from a 2 hour nap. She was in kinda a weird mood. She would not smile for pictures. GRRR! Here are a few cute ones anyway; without her cute smile. It was a beautiful day. Aileah was in heaven with airplanes over-head, pumpkins, and tractors to ride on. We had a great time. I had more pics but the computer is acting up :(

As soon as Aileah saw the tractors she HAD to ride on one! She loves John Deere!

Pointing to the other tractors she wanted to go ride.

This was the first pumpkin that she tried to pick. It was a bit too big. She was able to move it though. Strong girl!

Posing with Daddy...for a quick minute.

Inner Dialogue

2010-10-04T17:14:00.000-06:00

I wonder.... are you at all like me? I heard a talk once that referred to your inner dialogue, what you say to yourself throughout the day. What is your inner dialogue? The speaker posed the question, would you ever talk to someone else the way you talk to yourself? Would you ever dream of saying those mean, hurtful things to others? Why, then, do we think it is ok to say it to ourselves? I have been thinking about this a lot lately.
It is so easy to see things in ourselves that we don't like. But why is it so difficult to see the good, great and wonderful in ourselves? I had a roommate, Chrissy, who told me that everyday I needed to look at myself in the mirror and tell myself, "You're beautiful." What if I had actually done that? Would my inner dialogue be different today? I have struggled with this negative inner dialogue for some time. It is something I am trying to change. I wonder... are you like me?
I wasn't able to hear much of conference... trying to keep a 16 month old around. But I was able to hear some of Pres. Uchtdorf's talk. This quote stopped me in my tracks:
“Some people can’t get along with themselves. They criticize and belittle themselves all day long until they begin to hate themselves. May I suggest that you reduce the rush and take a little extra time to get to know yourself better. Walk in nature, watch a sunrise, enjoy God’s creations, ponder the truths of the restored gospel, and find out what they mean for you personally. Learn to see yourself as Heavenly Father sees you—as His precious daughter or son with divine potential.”

What a beautiful reminder! The Lord knew I needed to hear this at this time. I give thanks to a loving Heavenly Father who is aware of what I need. I don't write this to have compliments sent my way.... just something I've been thinking about and conference got me thinking even more. Thanks to all the beautiful examples I have in my life. I learn from you, even when you don't realize it.

Some great guys!

2010-10-02T12:21:00.000-06:00

I recently blogged about the great women in our family... now it's the guys' turn! I have been blessed to have some great guys in my life. They are great examples to me and they help me try to be a better person.

Ok... this is a weird pic but it is like the only one I have of my brother, Jon. Jon is very passionate. He is also very protective of those he loves. If you hurt one of us, heaven help you!

My brother, Jared, is such a patient and kind man. He has a very tender heart, something he gets from our Dad. He is so devoted to his 2 boys!

My bro in law, Adam. We haven't had the chance to live close to each other for long at all. I hope that will change some day. He is a very hard worker. He is a talented handyman. I wish I had those skills!

My Dad! What can I say? He is such a hard worker. He has worked many jobs he has hated to help support us. He has a tender heart, and is not afraid to show it... although he sometimes says it's allergies :) He is always there to listen and give advice. I love you, Dad, for these reasons and many more!

My wonderful husband! I am grateful to have been able to be married to my best friend! It was truly worth the wait. He is such a family man. Nothing is more important than his family. I love that about him. He works hard, at a job that he'd rather not be doing, and then goes to classes,does homework, and helps out at home. Thanks for all you do for me and Aileah! I love you!

I am grateful to the Lord for giving me so many great examples in my life. I don't even want to think about where I would be without you all! I love you... sorry I don't say it often enough.

Some pretty amazing women!

2010-09-17T22:04:00.000-06:00

I know many wonderful, talented, beautiful women. The Lord must have known I would need lots of examples, in my friends and family. I am truly blessed to have been born into family full of so many amazing women! Each is unique, super talented,and have taught me so much. They each make me want to be a better woman, wife, daughter, sister, mom, and daughter of God.

This is my youngest sister, Tiffany. She is so passionate about her hobbies. When she decides to do something she attacks it with a vengeance. She is very loving and gentle.

My sis in law, Debbie. She is such a hard-working, patient Mom. I'm so glad Jared chose to bring her into our family!

The girl on the right is my sister, Sheri. No one is allowed to take her picture...so this one will have to do! Sheri gives everything she has to those she loves. Even if it means she will be making huge sacrifices.

My oldest sister, Valerie. She is an example of faith, strength and service. Even during a very difficult time in her own life she looks for ways to serve others.

My mom, Stella. There are no words to tell all I've learned from her. I know she doesn't always think much of her mothering skills... but if I can be half the mom she's been I'll be grateful! She has made so many sacrifices on behalf of her children. She has taught me to love the Gospel and to hold tightly to it, in sunshine or shadows.

I pray that I can be more like the wonderful women in my family. I love you all very, very much!

Aileah's real besties!

2010-08-06T09:00:00.000-06:00

I watch my friend's two kids, Korbin and Chloe. Aileah loves these kids to death! It is fun to see her with other kids. She talks to them all the time. She is such a good sharer. She adores Korbin. She thinks he's the funniest thing ever! He's taught her to love trains, helicopters, airplanes,and trucks. They are too funny together. Aileah hit her head on the table, which she likes to do when she's angry, and Korbin gave her a kiss on her forehead to help her feel better. Aileah giggled. Oh man.... we are in trouble already!

Playing Tom's guitar.

Aileah, with her bed-head, and Chloe

Aileah and Korbin were taking turns combing/ brushing each other's hair.
It was really cute!

Aileah's new best friend!

2010-07-24T14:02:00.004-06:00

We'd like to thank Macey's for introducing these two to each other today!

So much fun to play games together!

They have been inseparable all day!

2010-07-05T11:57:00.002-06:00

Growing up, we did lots of fun things as a family. One thing I've always remembered is taking a trip to Calico Ghost Town. I remember the house made out of glass bottles, the name on the side of the mountain, and most of all drinking Sunkist (my favorite at the time). We had a fun family picture taken in old time clothes. I've always loved this picture.
So, in May, while in California I really wanted to go to Calico again and have a picture of my little family taken. They told us to look serious. I have been told by many family members that I just look mad. It is a great photo of my 2 loves, anyway.

The Refiner

2010-07-04T14:07:00.002-06:00

I received this thought a few months after Tom and I got married. I have been thinking about this thought for the last few weeks. I pray that I can remember it as I face the trials the Lord has trusted me with.

Malachi 3:3 says "And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness."

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study group and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next study session.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the refining of silver

As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver of the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver."

She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.

The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?" He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy- when I see my image in it."

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees his reflection in you. Reminds me of an old saying I keep reminding myself of : "God doesn't put tin foil in the fire (it only last a second). If you're feeling the fire, you must be gold or silver!

Battle Creek hike

2010-06-18T18:19:00.006-06:00

Ok... this has nothing to do with our hike. I just wanted to include it. A funny face (enhanced by allergies) but it shows her top teeth. 3 of them!!!

Yesterday was so nice out that Tom decided we were due for a hike. We were going to do Stewart Falls but decided we wouldn't have enough time. I'm so glad we did this hike instead. It is our first hike in a year...and boy am I out of shape! I think Stewart Falls would have killed me- and I wasn't even carrying Aileah!

Setting out on our hike!

We made it! My smile is still very crooked :>

Aileah LOVES water... but this was too cold for her to stand for long.

Aileah's war wound. She and Daddy had a collision and she got a bloody nose. What a trooper!

The falls were beautiful. It was a short hike but it sure showed me how much work I need to do on myself. We plan on doing more hikes this summer. We have such a happy, outdoor-loving girl!

Aileah's first ice cream cone!

2010-06-10T14:16:00.004-06:00

My dad bought a box of Drumsticks, thinking they were normal sized. But... luckily for Aileah they were Mini Drumsticks. She loved it! She sure does have a sweet tooth.

This was her reaction when I told her it was all gone.

Too funny!

Hi. My name is Heather and I'm a blogger slacker!

2010-06-08T22:13:00.004-06:00

I have, actually, been very aware that I have not update the blog in a ridiculously long time. But thanks to some encouraging, "subtle" hints from some family members I am actually doing it. Life has been going crazy fast lately. I just finished up my 9th year with Headstart. WHOO HOO! If things go according to plan, I will not be going back in the fall. I am watching two great kids, Korbin and Chloe. And it allows me the opportunity to stay home with my cutie! So he's a quick rundown of some of our latest adventures, complete with lots of pics :)

We went to the Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point.

Took a fun vacation to Disneyland

Really enjoyed playing in the ocean.

Really didn't enjoy playing in the pool.

Celebrated my first Mother's Day!

Celebrated Aileah's first birthday. She was way too tired to really

celebrate. We will have another bigger party soon.

What I can do- by Aileah

2010-03-15T06:30:00.005-06:00

I can wave hello and goodbye. Sometimes it's a wave, sometimes it is
just a raised arm. I love people and I wave to everyone I see!

I can talk to Daddy and Mommy. I love to talk!

I like trying new foods...like chocolate. YUM!

I can use my monkey feet to grab and hold my toys.

It's pretty fun....see?

I love to read! My books are some of my favorite toys!

Sometimes I just gotta ask, "What are you doing, Mom?"

I love just sitting outside and taking everything in.

I will let Mommy and Daddy put funny hats on me...sometimes.

I can chew on my fingers... and I do all the time!

Our trip to the duck pond

2010-02-15T14:43:00.003-07:00

Yesterday we took advantage of the beautiful Spring- like weather. Aileah loved seeing the ducks and exploring grass1 sure love this little girl!

They were all paired off. Maybe they knew it was Valentine's Day :)

I love this pic! It totally captures her personality.

Just checking out the duck pond!

A gratuitous cute photo of our little doll!

Yummy Shredded Pork Tacos

2010-02-01T22:17:00.002-07:00

This recipe is quick, easy and inexpensive. Oh yeah.... and it is super delicious! I found it in a Cooking Light Cookbook.

1/2 C. chopped onion
1/2 C. water
2 Tbsp. tomato paste
1 lb. pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 pkg. taco seasoning
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro
8 (6 inch) corn tortillas
2 C. shredded lettuce
1/2 C. reduced fat sharp Cheddar cheese
1/4 C. finely chopped onion
1/4 C. reduced fat sour cream

Combine first 6 ingredients in an electric slow cooker. Cover and cook on low 6 hours. Stir in cilantro.
Warm tortillas according to package directions. Spoon 1/4 C. pork mixture with 1/4 C. lettuce, 1 Tbsp.. cheese, 1 1/2 tsp. finely chopped onion, and 1 1/2 tsp. sour cream. Fold tacos in half.
Makes 4 servings (2 tacos each)

The greatest gift I have received

2009-12-29T06:59:00.005-07:00

I couldn't find a more recent family photo. Sadly. it's missing the Mercers.

This time of year it is easy to get wrapped up in all the gift giving ( and receiving). Tom, Aileah, and I went to see the lights at Temple Square and I was struck with the feeling of being abundantly blessed! We have had our share of worries and struggles but what a great life I have. I am married to my best friend. I have an adorable, sweet, healthy baby girl. Tom and I have jobs. I have a family who loves and supports me through anything.
I have received so many wonderful gifts throughout my life. But by far the greatest was from my loving elder brother, who gave his life so I could repent of my sins and return to my Father in Heaven. He made it possible for me to be with those I love through eternity. I could not imagine a more wonderful gift!

Lesson from a sunflower

2009-12-06T12:13:00.005-07:00

Recently I learned an interesting fact about sunflowers. Why are sunflowers called sunflowers? Is it because they look like the sun? Nope. It is due to the fact that they will follow the sun throughout the day. As the sun moves across the sky the head of the flower will turn to face the light. This little tidbit of info has me thinking. I want to be more like a sunflower!
How do I react to trials, disappointments, and frustrations? Do I dwell on all the negatives or do I look to all the blessings I have been given? Sadly, it is so easy to think about how bad things are or about how you wish things were. But from this day on I will become a sunflower. I will look for and follow the light in my life... because I have been truly blessed by a loving Heavenly Father. And that is what I will choose to search out from here on out, rainy days and all.

The most wonderful time of the year!!!!

2009-11-08T16:14:00.005-07:00

I just love this little face... even when she's crying!

Simply adorable!

Sweet tooth, already? Must be half Andes :)

The Skywalker Family Halloween 2009

The adorable Princess Leia

Aileah at 4 months... a little old now :>

Corn Maze at Pumpkinland!

Eating rice cereal for the first time.

No... not Christmas, although that is a pretty great time of the year! I'm talking about the Fall. I absolutely love it!!! This year has been a wonderfully long Autumn. Yay! It really is the most wonderful time of the year.

Aileah is growing so fast! She's 5 months now. She has rolled over a few times... but now refuses to do it anymore. She amazes me everyday with the things she is doing. She loves to play peekaboo, suck on her toes, give cuddles, and look at books. She is usually such a happy, smiley, giggly baby. What a blessing she is in my life.

A bit of happy news to pass on... we are moving!!! Just to Provo... but it is a bigger and newer place. We started looking a couple weeks ago in the hopes of finding a place that will work for a preschool. So I will be starting one up in the fall. Please pray for us that things work out the way we are hoping! I am excited and nervous. But things fell into place so quickly and easily that it must be the Lord's plan for us. My question is... why do we keep moving in December? Our third move that wonderfully warm month.

My baby is 4 months?!

2009-10-02T05:37:00.005-06:00

My smiley little girl!

She loves her gym... sometimes :)

My sister, Tiffany, came for a visit from Georgia.
Unfortunately, this was how Aileah was feeling
for most of the time she was visiting. Sorry, Tiff!

Aileah with 5 of her cousins... all the grandkids
on the Andes side. Aren't they super cute?!

Where does the time go? I can't believe Aileah will be turning 4 months on Sunday! I can't believe I haven't blogged since August! I am so grateful to have this cute, happy (yes, guys, she really is happy sometimes) little girl come to our family. Here is a run down on what she's been up to the last little while.

She hates tummy time and so decided to roll over to her back. She did this 4 times in one day... but not again since.
She loves, loves, loves blowing raspberries. A very wet, new development.
She loves to play, grab, and suck on her feet.
She is sucking her thumb lots. Not a Binky girl anymore.
She laughs... really laughs. It is adorable.
She rubs her eyes with the back of her hand when she's falling asleep.
She usually cries when we go visit someone at their home. Not so fun... but I promise she is a happy girl at home. Sorry not everyone gets to see that :(
She finally fits into "newborn" shoes... but still kicks them off.

Just a few of the things she does that makes me smile everyday. I love being a mom! She was definitely worth the wait!

Hiking= good, clean fun!

2009-08-01T16:21:00.002-06:00

On Tuesday my sister, Valerie, invited our little family to go on a "hike" to Devil's Kitchen in the Nebo Loop. It was a nice little stroll down the path to the overlook. It was a beautiful view of red rocked formations. It was a really short walk... but the drive and company were fabulous! Thanks for letting us tag along Mendozas!
Today I decided we needed to hike Donut Falls in Big Cottonwood canyon. Neither Tom nor I have been up to Big Cottonwood. It was so beautiful! We are looking forward to more hiking trips up there! Here are a few pics from our hikes.
Our little sun worshipper!

This is near the Donut Falls trailhead. The

falls are much bigger... and very popular!

Time Flies! A quick update

2009-07-08T16:41:00.015-06:00

Ok. Where did June go?! I honestly don't think a month has ever flown by so quickly! Here's a rapid rundown of what we've been up to lately.

We took Aileah for her first "hike". Ok... so really it's more of a pleasant stroll. But you gotta start somewhere, right? We went up to Bridal Veil Falls. She is one outdoorsy girl! She could be crying super hard but then stop the minute we get outside. We hope this is a lasting trait of hers.

On the 4th of July our little girl turned 1 month! Aileah is such a good, happy baby. She smiles and coos at us all the time. I am fortunate to have this summer to be a stay-at-home mom. I'm loving this time I have to spend with her. It breaks my heart to think of going back to work at the end of summer! What an adorable, long-awaited blessing this girl is. I kinda like her... a lot!
More often than not we hear, "She looks just like her daddy!" Who do you think she looks like?

We had Aileah's blessing on July 5th. We had so many friends and family members with us to celebrate this special day. We love you all! Aileah was wide awake during her blessing but didn't make a sound. She just stared at her Daddy with her beautiful big eyes! Tom gave her a beautiful blessing!

On Monday, Tom and I decided to go to a couple of places we've never been before. We went to Young Living Farms and the Lotus Temple. It was so nice to get out as a family!

I love my life! I have truly been blessed beyond anything I deserve. I have the privilege of being married to my best friend! I love seeing him with Aileah- it makes me fall in love with him all over again! He is such a great husband and father! I have a sweet little girl, who melts my heart with her smile. I love this little family. Yes... life is good!

The circle of life

2009-06-15T08:38:00.005-06:00

We are pleased to announce the arrival of our precious little girl, Aileah Brooklyn Mann! She was born June 4, 2009, weighing 8 lbs 6 oz and measuring 20 inches long. She has quite a bit hair... and we were convinced she'd be bald! She is such a good baby. As I look at her my heart fills with joy and gratitude. We are grateful for the chance to be her parents and pray for the Lord's guidance to help us be the parents she deserves. We never imagined how much we would love her... or how much we would worry about her. This beautiful girl has definetely been worth the wait!

We were able to leave the hospital on Sunday. We hadn"t been home for too long when I got a call from my mom. She had just found out that my Grandpa Bill was not going to be able to have a much needed heart surgery. The doctors were sending him home for hospice care. Mom flew out the next morning. She was able to be there when he passed away as he slept. I am glad that he knew about Aileah. He was bragging to all the hospital staff :) I will remember Grandpa for sense of humor, his arguments with the missionaries, and for the compliments he paid me. I will miss him but I am grateful for the knowledge that we can be together again!

Sewing projects and some random pics!

2009-05-31T20:28:00.009-06:00

Ok.. I hate pictures of me. But here I am one day before Aileah's due date.
Ugh! And I can't figure out how to turn it the right way... Sorry!

Tom took this sweet shot at Tracy Aviary!

Sorry... I can't figure out how to turn this one either!

A pelican shot I took at the Aviary.

A pinecone cluster at Thanksgiving Point.

The blanket I made for Aileah. It is super simple,

I know... but I did it to practice sewing straight lines.

The blessing gown! Grandma Stella helped rescue Aileah from

a fate worse than death... looking like white trash!

Thanks for all your patience and help, Mom!

Seven Days??!!!

2009-05-23T21:26:00.002-06:00

I know, I know... I am a terrible blogger. Maybe I will feel more inclined to do it once I have Aileah to brag about. More desire, but less time. I cannot believe we are a week away from our due date! The past 9 months have, mostly, flown by! It doesn't really seem real yet that Tom and I will parents super soon! I am excited and nervous to see our precious little girl!
And now to catch you up on a couple of things that have been going on. The weekend after my last post I started (and almost finished) my practice blessing gown. I am grateful for my mom's patience with me. I am so worried that the gown will end up looking so white trash... but I know that my Mom will guide me through it and save us from that fate. I think the practice gown is coming along nicely... I have only the back and a hem left. Then on to the real thing!! Wish me luck!
On May 1st Tom and I escaped to Park City. My wonderful friend, Sofia, bought us a night stay at a Bed and Breakfast last year. We kept meaning to use it... but life gets so crazy! We used it 8 days before the gift certificate expired. We went up for a quick overnight trip. It was wonderful to get away and relax from work. We ended up having the entire house to ourselves. It was a new experience for the two of us. Neither of us had ever been to a B&B before. The house had been a condemned wreck until the owner came along and saved it. It was a rustic, older home. It was a fun night. Thanks for a much needed mini vacation, Sofia!

What was I thinking?!

2009-03-28T17:34:00.003-06:00

So... ever since I found out we were pregnant I have planning to sew a blessing gown/ outfit for the baby. The problem is I don't know how to sew! It is a pretty ambitious undertaking but I really want to try it. After realizing we are down to 9, yes NINE, weeks before Aileah comes I decided I ought start to learn how to sew something. Yikes! Where did all the time go?!
I headed over to my Mom and Dad's house for a sewing lesson from Mom. I have only ever sewed one other item... a scripture bag made from a place mat. That project required lots of help from my wonderful roommate, Jessica. Mom and I decided to start with a blanket. Mom and Sheri must have thought I know more than I do...but I don't know the first thing about sewing! I provided lots of laughs for the two of them as I struggled to make my little project. I was able to do most of it on my own! I did need a little help from the ladies along the way. But I have finished my second sewing project! Next week... a practice blessing gown. I will try to post pictures of the blanket and dress later. What was I thinking?! I must be crazy!

I'm such a lucky girl!

2009-02-16T21:49:00.003-07:00

Happy Second Anniversary, my love! It is so hard to believe that Tom and I have been married for TWO years already! It has flown by so quickly! Here are a few reasons why I love him so much! (one for each month we've been married)
1- He tells me he loves me at least 6 times a day.
2-He is so patient (especially with my wacko mood swings).
3-He tells me I am beautiful at least once a day.
4-He compliments my cooking... even if what I made isn't really very good.
5-He gives great hugs.
6-He gives me neck or shoulder massages after a stressful day.
7-He is so go with the flow. He helps calm me down... you see, I am a bit of a worrier.
8-He is fiercely loyal.
9-He puts his family first. We are THE most important thing in his life.
10-He leaves me random love notes.
11-He cuddles with me when we fall asleep... and even a dead sleep he will scoot over to wrap his arms around me.
12- He dreams big.
13-He is a hard worker. He works jobs he hates to help support us.
14-He is so excited to be a dad. I can't wait to see him hold our baby girl.
15-He is generally optimistic.
16-He loves to be outdoors... he has taught me to enjoy it more. Although I still don't like to get dirty.
17-He will listen to me ramble on and on as we are trying to go to sleep.
18-He is very confident about himself and his abilities.
19-He honors his priesthood. I am so grateful to be able to ask him for a blessing any time I need it.
20-He always holds my hand as we are walking.
21-He is willing to help others.
22-He encourages me to try new things and believe in myself.
23-He gives me his shoulder to cry on.
24-He makes me laugh everyday.
I'm not saying we have a perfect marriage and that we don't occasionally drive each other crazy. But we often talk about how lucky we are to have found each other. I am so grateful to our Heavenly Father for allowing me to become friends with, fall in love, and marry Tom. He is such a great man! I know that He knows what is best for each and every one of us. I could never have imagined how happy I could be...being married to my best friend. I am a very lucky girl!

Finding Happiness

2009-01-16T06:51:00.003-07:00

Lately, I have been thinking a lot about happiness and the things that bring us true, lasting happiness. I have been reading a little bit about being happy and wanted to share a couple of quotes I found that spoke to me.

"Happiness is a journey, not a destination; happiness is to be found along the way, not at the end of the road, for then the journey is over ant it's too late. The time for happiness is today not tomorrow." -Paul H. Dunn

I remember thinking when I finish college and get a real job...then I will be happy. When I am seriously dating then I will be happy. When I am married then I will be happy. I think of myself as a generally happy person... but I thought I would be completely happy when I met these goals. This is a powerful reminder to me to find the happiness in the journey; if I don't- I sure won't feel it at the end.

"Happiness does not depend on obtaining all the desires of our hearts. In a large measure, happiness depends on our ability to feel gratitude for the abundance we already have."
-Carolyn Wright
This quote struck me. How often do I forget all the little things that I have been given? How often do I stew over the things I want but don't have? I decided to compile a list of some things that have made me smile or laugh in the last couple of months. Then when I am feeling discouraged or down I can be reminded that happiness can be always be found... if I am just grateful enough to look for it.

1. Sometimes I crawl into bed after Tom has been asleep for awhile. I say good night again. I LOVE that he will always say I love you... mumbling and still asleep. I know that he means it...since he is dead to the world.

2. I have the pleasure of working with 4 and 5 year olds. They can be so frustrating... but they are also so funny. I was testing one of my kids this week. We tell them we are going to try to trick them and ask if we can or if they are too smart to be tricked. One of my little guys said, "I am allergic to tricky!" I had to laugh.

3. My nephew, Avi, is just beginning to speak. Yesterday I walked into my parents' house and he said, "Heather!" It melted my heart...it is only the second time I've heard him say my name... and the first time it has been spontaneous!

4. Having one of my girls in class, Cierra, whisper to me, "I really like sitting on your lap."

5. A couple of days ago Tom whispered into my belly, "Hi, Aileah. It's Daddy. You hang on tight in there." He is going to be such a great dad!

6. A girl in my class, Autumn, asked if she could kiss my baby. I told her it would probably be better if she blew the baby a kiss. She did and then she got three of the other girls in our class to blow kisses to the baby.

7. I love holding my newest nephew, Itai. I love getting him to smile his huge toothless smile.

8. I was eating snack with my class and one of the boys at my table turned to me and said, "Guess what. I love you." And then he just went back to eating. He has done this a couple of times... just said I love you in passing.

9. I love that my oldest nephew, Alex, tells Dad jokes. You know... those corny, "punny" jokes. He is a master of them. He spent the night a few weeks ago and boy, was he ever on a roll with them! Funny kid!

10. I love that my oldest niece, Elisa, is so gentle and loving to everyone. She is a great helper with Avi. He loves her to pieces and often wants her to carrying him around. Sweet girl!

11. My youngest niece, Sabrina, is so funny...sometimes without meaning to be. Tom and I were watching her and her two siblings for 5 days. She is a fairly picky eater and everything I suggested was turned down. Finally I said,"Do you like frozen pizza?" She said, "Um... a little. But can you cook it first?" My favorite Sabrina story!

12. I smile every time I have to get out of bed in the middle of the night. When I get back in Tom will scoot over to me and wrap his arms around me before going back to a dead sleep.

13. Feeling Aileah move, kick, or punch... or whatever she is doing in there. Tom is anxious to feel it too!

14. When we told Bella, my niece, that we "had a baby in my tummy." She tried to lift my shirt to see it. I tried to explain she couldn't see it yet. She leaned down and very gently kissed the baby. What a cute girl!

15. Being married to my best friend! I cannot imagine traveling on this journey with anyone else! I am so grateful for Tom in my life. I could list a million things he does to bring happiness to my life!

Ultrasound results

2009-01-02T13:36:00.003-07:00

So... on Tuesday Tom and I went in for THE ultrasound. Since our trip to the ER in early December, when the ultrasound tech gave us a 85% chance I was carrying a boy, I have been convinced that we would be welcoming Elijah into our family. At our latest appointment the tech tried to find out the gender right away. The baby has, apparently, inherited my over modestness. It wasn't cooperating! After a wee while she tried again. Imagine my surprise when she said we are having a girl! We are excited. I didn't really care either way- just as long as the baby is healthy. To top it off we get the girl name we like. We were competing against my brother, Jared, and his wife. Hee hee (that is my diabolical laugh for you, Jared) We will be welcoming Aileah Brooklyn around May 30th, 2009!

2008-12-11T21:00:00.001-07:00

2008-12-11T19:08:00.003-07:00

Me and my girlies- hanging at Chili's!

So I am a slacker...

2008-12-11T18:52:00.004-07:00

Not too much has happened since my last blog. Kind of a sad state of affairs, isn't it? I feel like I lead a really boring life right now- thus no blogging. Blame it on morning sickness (that strikes at night), or being exhausted after work, or that I am just plain lazy. Just a quick blurb about some fun things that have happened recently.

One of my old roommates, Chrissy, came for a visit. We were able to get together with Tina, Nicky, and Jessica for the traditional Chili's dinner. It was so wonderful to see my girls again! It was fun to see them as Moms. What a lucky girl I was to have had the chance to live with them and learn from them. They are a pretty amazing group of women. I am so lucky to have them in my life!

We had an ultrasound last week! It didn't happen with the best circumstances. We had a bit of a scare and ended up in the ER. Thankfully, the baby is doing well. I just had to go on bed rest for a few days. I didn't think it would be that bad....but I greatly underestimated how boring it would be. So the happy result of the ER trip was the chance to hear the baby's heartbeat and to see it moving around. I was so relieved to hear that whoosing sound! We are anxiously awaiting the 30th... we will find out if we will be welcoming Elijah or Aileah.

Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies

2008-11-13T17:17:00.002-07:00

This is such a yummy recipe. I love pumpkin chocolate chip cookies... but not the chunky cakey ones you get in the store. This are just like normal chocolate chip cookies...with the delicious hint of pumpkin. YUM!!!
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
1 C. unsalted butter, softened
1 C. white sugar
1 C. light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 C. canned pumpkin
3 C. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
2 C. milk chocolate chips
Heat the oven to 350. Spray cookie sheets with nonstick cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
Using a mixer, beat the butter until smooth. Beat in the sugars, a little at a time, until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs 1 at a time, then mix in the vanilla and pumpkin puree. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Slowly beat in the flour mixture into the batter in thirds. Stir in the chips. Scoop the cookie dough by heaping tablespoons onto the prepared cookie sheets and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are browned around the edges. Remove from oven and let them rest for 2 min. Take the cookies off with a spatula and cool on a wire rack.

Tom and Me plus...

2008-10-17T17:31:00.002-06:00

BABY makes three! Tom and I went to the doctor's today and saw our baby's heartbeat! What a huge relief and blessing! Our baby is due on May 30, 2009! We are almost eight weeks along. I have been pretty sick this time around... we took that as a good sign since I wasn't with the other two pregnancies. We LOVE our CNM... she is awesome and I would recommend her to any and everyone! Just wanted to share our happy news! Keeping it a secret for a month was so so hard. Now we are safe to tell everyone who will listen!

2008-10-05T11:17:00.003-06:00

I've Been Tagged...Again!

5 Things- Tagged by Lyndsay

5 Things I've Done in the Past 10 Years:
1-Moved out of my parents house
2- Had my first kiss
3-Got married
4-Rode the Rocket at Lagoon (YUCK!)
5-Graduated from the U of U

5 Things I Wish I Could Do Today:
1-Get out of debt
2-Quit my job
3-Go to Scotland
4-Have Tom up and flying
5-Be a mom

5 Foods I Wouldn't Want to Live Without:
1-Bananas
2-Pizza
3-Cafe Rio's Chicken Burritos (although we don't eat it very often)
4-Couscous
5-ice cream

5 Things I Would Do if I Were a Millionaire:
1-Buy a house
2-Go on a world trip
3-Get out of debt
4-Share money with my family
5-Get two new cars (one for me and one for Tom)

5 Places I Have Lived:
1-Orem, UT
2-Cutler Ridge, FL
3-Hunington Beach, CA
4-Dayton, OH
5-Fayettville, NC

5 Jobs I Have Had:
1-Preschool Teacher
2-Janitor
3-Daycare worker
4-Manufacturing
5-housecleaner... in high school

5 People I Tag:
1-Tina
2-Jessica
3-Chrissy
4-Tiffany (when your life settles down)
5-Valerie

2008-10-02T20:05:00.006-06:00

I've Been Tagged
The "rules" of the game are as follows:
1. Post the rules on your blog.
2. Write 6 random things about yourself.
3. Tag 6 people at the end of your post.
4. If you're tagged, DO IT and pass on the tag.

Now, 6 things about me...
1. I hate/ am afraid of moths. ( I know, I know...but they are creepy!)
2. I get motion sickness... recently rediscovered as I have to ride the bus.
3. I want to own a used bookstore.
4. I wear a shoe size 6 and a half.
5. I do not ever, ever wear a swimsuit or shorts.
6. I really really enjoy eating peaunt butter... with chocolate is even better.

I tag:
1. Valerie
2. Tiffany
3. Jared
4. Lindsay
5. Liz
6. Dawnelle (you can email it since you can't blog)

My wonderful husband, Tom

2008-09-28T08:53:00.001-06:00

My wonderful husband, Tom

2008-09-28T08:33:00.007-06:00

I love Fall! I love the colors, the weather, the smells... basically I love everything about Fall! Tom and I were able to go up to the canyon yesterday. It is so beautiful right now! For some reason Fall always reminds me of when I was single and living in "The Party Barge". I had great roommates who taught me so much about myself and how to be a better me. And although I had so many great times with my girls I was so anxious to meet the man I would spend eternity with.

Enter Tom. We had known each other for about 9 months before he asked me out. We had been flirting with each other just for fun (we were both interested in other people at this point.) I am so grateful for that time we had to get to know each other as friends. Our first date was so much fun! He was so easy to talk to and be myself around. He started winning my heart on that first date! And the rest is history.

He is such a wonderful man and husband! I am eternally grateful to our Heavenly Father for allowing me the privilege of marrying my best friend. I could honestly spend all day everyday with Tom and be perfectly content. I love spending time with him. I am grateful for all he does for me... especially working a job he hates so he can help support us. I am grateful for his unconditional love and his easy-going attitude. I am grateful that he (for some reason) thinks I am beautiful and tries to get me to see that in myself more. I am grateful that he will someday be a wonderful father to our children. I will take great delight in seeing him hold our newborn... you see, he is afraid he will break little ones :) He makes me want to be a better wife, daughter, sister, friend and woman. I am so grateful for him. I love him the mostest of the mostest cuz he's the grandest of grandest prizes.

2008-09-20T01:11:00.005-06:00

I have been inspired by my family's and friends' blogs... obviously! This is one of our new favorite recipes. Hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Black Bean Lasagna Rolls

1 C (4 oz) shredded, reduced fat Montery-Jack cheese

1(15 oz) carton part skim Ricotta cheese

1 (4.5 oz) can chopped green chilies, drained

1/2 tsp chili powder (this makes it super spicy... HOT! I would cut back.)

1/8 tsp salt

8 lasagna noodles

2 C cannned no salt added black beans, drained

cooking spray

1 (15.5 oz) jar no salt added salsa

Combine first 5 ingredients, stir well. Set aside.

Cook lasagna noodles as directed on package; drain well.

Spread cheese mixture over one side of each noodle. Spoon beans evenly over cheese mixture. Roll up noodles, jelly-roll fashion, beginning at narrow end.

Place rolls, seam sides down, in an 11x7x1.5 inch baking dish coated with spray. Pour salsa over rolls. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

My favorite photos I've taken

2008-09-14T22:01:00.001-06:00

The Bicycle Fairy

2008-09-08T19:19:00.003-06:00

Once upon a time (back in May) my wonderful husband and I were driving down the freeway, at about 70 miles an hour, when the back wheels of his truck decided to lock up and stop spinning. As you can imagine that was about the scariest thing to have ever happened to me. So... realizing he still needed to be able to get to school and work we decided to buy a bike for him. (This was not a visit from the Bicycle Fairy) In the two weeks he has ridden his bike he has lost 10 pounds. (Totally unfair... but he is a boy so I will continue on with the story.) I had toyed around with the idea of buying a bike for me. But I had serious doubts that I would use it enough to justify buying it. So we didn't get one for me.
Now... if you know me at all you know that I have struggles with my weight. I have been trying, unsuccessfully, to eat healthier and become more active. We did really well with working out every other day for about a month and a half. So when I heard Tom's weight loss I started to think about the bike again. I had mentioned to my family and a few friends that I was thinking about getting a bike too but wondered if I would really use it. Then one day I came home from work and sitting in front of my front door was a bike. I didn't think anything of it at first - I thought it was our neighbor's. But it sat in the same position all night and well into the morning. So... I have been visited by the Bicycle Fairy.
Tom and I went for a bike ride yesterday to see how long it would take me to ride to work. I haven't been on a bike in over 20 years but I thought, "How hard can it be? Tom does it every day." Boy... if I didn't feel bad about myself before I sure do now. I realize that I am not in the best shape - but that bike ride kicked my butt! We didn't even make it to my classroom. I started showing signs of either heat stroke or heat exhaustion and had to turn around. So my plans to ride to work everyday in order to get in better shape have been chucked out the window. I have a new and improved plan. I will still go on bike rides; just not everyday. I will stop by the Rec Center everyday on my way home from work to exercise in the beauty of air conditioning. Yay for the cool indoors. And Yay for the Bicycle fairy!

Timp cave

2008-07-31T15:55:00.000-06:00

Two of sisters and I have been planning on hiking to Timp Cave for a year now. Unfortunately, Tiffany, my younger sister, crashed her bike a few days before our planned trip. She is doing well... but not well enough to make the hike. So, Valerie and her kids (Alex, Elisa, and Sabrina), Tom and I made the hike on Wednesday. The kids did such a great job hiking. We were worried we wouldn't be up to the enterance in time for our tour... but we were almost a half hour early! The cave tour is very cool! You actually go thru three caves and learn about the formations. It was fun to see the kids' reactions to the cave. I am glad we actually made it up this year. It is totally worth the sweating, huffing and puffing to see the beauty in the caves. How grateful I am for the chance to spend time in nature. ( Who would ever have thought those words would come from me?!) It is such a wonderful reminder that we have a Father in Heaven who knows us, loves us, and is aware of our triumphs and struggles. I am grateful to have a wonderful husband who patiently teaches me to enjoy more time in the great outdoors.

When life get too tough to stand... kneel

2008-07-25T07:48:00.000-06:00

I don't know if I should blog about this but here it goes. Last night Tom and I had to go to the emergency room. We were pregnant for the second time this year. And for the second time we lost the baby. I have wanted to be a Mom for as long as I can remember. So,as you can imagine, it has been heartbreaking to lose two pregnancies within four months. I am not sure what Heavenly Father has for me to learn from this trial but I pray that I can learn from it and be strengthened. I know that when the time is right I will be blessed with a healthy pregnancy. It is so hard to wait. It makes me think of when I was single and wanting to be married. It was so hard to wait for the right time... but boy was it worth the wait. I have felt peace and comfort as I turn to my Father in Heaven at this time. Hope this isn't too much information for anyone... just needed to get it off my chest. I love you all. thanks for the support and love, especially at this time.

What a busy week!

2008-07-20T08:15:00.000-06:00

Tom and I have had the craziest week ever... but it turned out it be pretty good. My sister, Valerie, and her husband, Robin, asked us to watch their three children while they went on a vacation to San Francisco. (We were not being selfless here- we are getting a new bed out of the deal.) So we packed up and headed down to Spanish Fork for five days. It was fun to see Tom with the kids because he is not used to being around children. He often doesn't really know how to interact with them. The curse of being the baby boy of the family, I guess. He did great though.
To add to the insanity we had to drive up to Orem for appointments, interviews, meetings, or visits every day of the week. We had a couple of doctor's appointments that made me worry quite a bit... more on that another time. But we got great news on Wednesday when Tom got a job offer from Macey's! He has been out of work for two and a half months. It is a huge relief, even though he will be taking a pay cut. He will be able to go to school and fly in the morning and work 2-10. It will be so hard to be apart for so long. I have loved spending almost every minute of the day with him for the last two months. I am truly blessed to be married to my best friend.
We decided to take the kids on a couple of hikes while we were with them. The first one we went on was to Cascade Springs. It was a beautiful stroll. Not really a hike because it is mostly a boardwalk that crosses small cascading falls. The kids really enjoyed seeing the fish,butterflies,and birds. The second hike we went on will fall into the "what were we thinking" file. The kids actually did great but it really took a toll on them. I found the Fifth Water Trail. It is a two mile hike up to hot springs and cool waterfalls. The hike up took a lot longer than I imagined... having never hiked with three kids before. The reward was well worth it once we got to the top. They loved the hot springs! We made it down in half the time. I was proud of them for making the hike.
On Friday we got to visit with Jessica, Tucker, and Korbin. We haven't seen each other in such a long time... even though we live only like three blocks apart. I am a terrible friend. We had a picnic at Nielsen's Grove park. It is my favorite park (Tom proposed to me there)-it is so beautiful. It was wonderful to catch up with them and spend time together. I am so lucky to have the wonderful friends that I do.
Well... that was a marathon blog. If you made it to the end Congrats. I will try to ramble less in future blogs ;)

A trip to remember

2008-07-05T16:11:00.000-06:00

Tom and I have been wanting to get out of Utah for quite awhile now. Nevada doesn't count... that is practically Utah. So even though Tom is out of work we decided to pack up and have a relaxing vacation. We drove up to Portland, Oregon to see our friends, Chrissy, Seth, and Kimmie. My sister, Valerie, and her family were also vacation up there. So we spent a day with them exploring the coast. We had fun going to the Aquarium, the cold and windy beach, and the Tillamook Factory! It is a very, very boring drive up thru Idaho. We did have an adventure in the Blue Mountains just inside of Oregon when we got pounded with a snowstorm complete with thick fog! Snow... in June?!!!! I was a nervous wreck but Tom got us thru safely.
Oregon was so beautiful, so green. Tom and I had so much fun! Chrissy, Seth, and Kimmie took us to Multnomah Falls. We hiked to the top. That is sure not an easy hike. But it is one of the most beautiful places I have seen and well worth the effort! It was wonderful to see the Davenports again. It is fun to see Chrissy as a wife and doting mom! It was a wonderful trip. I will try to include some pictures soon... I am still learning all this high tech stuff.